Photos and Review by Chris Besaw
Social Distortion played their second consecutive sold out show at the Town Ballroom in Buffalo, NY on October 2.
Opening the evening was the riverside California rock band the BellRays. I had heard of the BellRays but had never listened to their music. As soon as the band took the stage, lead singer Lisa Kekaula kicked things off with the ripping track “Revolution Get Down” and in that moment, I knew I was a fan. Kekaula along with Bob Vennum (guitars vocals), who are the bands founding members, having been making music since the 1990’s.
The BellRays got the packed house up on their feet dancing. I am glad I had an opportunity to see them live and they are a band I will certainly be following in the future. They played a solid set including “I Fall Down,” “Snakes” and “Down on My Knees.” If you get the chance and you enjoy high energy rock and roll, get out and see them live, you won’t regret it.
It was time for the evening’s headliner, Social Distortion! The place was packed, and the excitement was palpable. After a brief intro, Mike Ness and the band took the stage and kicked off night two with “So Far Away.” Ness is backed by the amazing Johnny 2 Bags on guitar and backing vocals, Brent Harding on bass, and David Hidalgo Jr. on drums.
Between songs Mike Ness told stories about his ups and downs and how he is appreciative of his fans who have stood by him through the years and attend their shows. My favorite tale that he regaled the crowd with was about him doing disco biscuits (Quaaludes) and drinking several Budweiser beers and ending up in a parking lot fight where he almost had his ear bit off. “Let this be a public service announcement warning for all you youngins” Ness quipped.
The band continued the evening firing off an amazing set list that spanned their incredible career including “Cold Feelings,” “Ball and Chain” and “Reach for the Sky.”
There is no questioning how Social Distortion has withstood the test of time. Their music which Ness describes as simply stories from his life connect the fans with the band and are relatable. It also helps that they put on an incredible live performance. I was happy to see them live again and look forward the next time.
Please enjoy the photos from the evening.
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