Photos and review by Dot Peck
Flummox: A Sonic Whiplash You’ll Crave Again
Flummox delivered a performance that was nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment they stepped onto the stage, there was a palpable shift in the air — a sudden jolt of electricity that seemed to grip the entire audience in collective anticipation. And grip us they did. Their energy was volcanic, erupting in waves of chaotic brilliance that never let up for a second.
What makes Flummox stand out isn’t just their genre-defying sound or theatrical edge — it’s their sheer command over the room. Every riff, every guttural vocal, every off-kilter moment felt intentional and deeply connected to the audience’s pulse. You could see it in the eyes of every person watching: mouths open, heads banging, bodies moving with complete abandon. Flummox doesn’t just play music — they unleash it like a force of nature, and in doing so, they blur the line between performer and observer. If you ever get the chance to catch them live, prepare to be completely consumed.
Guttermouth: Punk With a Personal Touch
Guttermouth hit the stage like a lightning bolt wrapped in barbed wire — fast, loud, and impossible to ignore. But what truly set them apart wasn’t just the tightness of their punk execution or their unapologetic, high-speed delivery — it was their fearless interaction with the crowd.
Between songs, the band frequently stopped to chat, joke, and banter with the audience, creating an environment that felt more like a wild living room party than a traditional show. That regular conversation added a layer of confidence and authenticity, letting the audience feel like they were part of the chaos rather than simply witnessing it.
The music? Spectacular. Guttermouth’s raw energy and years of experience were on full display. Each track hit harder than the last, delivered with the kind of seasoned chaos only true punk veterans can harness. It was loud, it was fast, it was messy in all the right ways — and it never let the crowd out of its grip.
Mac Sabbath: A Feast for the Eyes and Ears
Imagine Black Sabbath reimagined by a twisted fast-food fever dream — that’s Mac Sabbath, and they pulled it off with jaw-dropping perfection. Their set was more than a concert; it was a fully choreographed spectacle of bizarre brilliance.
From the elaborate costumes to the perfectly timed comedic skits, every moment of Mac Sabbath’s performance felt precision crafted. The production value was staggering — lights, smoke, props, and synchronized stage antics elevated the whole experience to something theatrical, immersive, and unforgettable. It was absurd in the best way possible; a parody show that somehow also felt like a celebration of rock and roll excess.
And then there was the music. Somehow, despite the wild visuals and over-the-top antics, Mac Sabbath’s sound was even better live. Their Sabbath-inspired riffs were executed flawlessly, and the tongue-in-cheek lyrical twists were sharp, funny, and undeniably catchy. The band proved they’re not just a gimmick — they’re powerhouse performers with real chops, delivering one of the most unexpectedly satisfying live sets out there.
Where was this show?
Buffalo Iron Works in Buffalo!