AMERICAN GOTHIC
THE FUEL
STIFF
at CLUB 369

By Dave Moore

Stopped by Club 369 this past Saturday to catch a show by AMERICAN GOTHIC. Their name is self-explanatory if you're wondering what style would best describe their sound.
Once inside I was subjected to the disturbing sounds of the opening band. Noise pollution I can do without.
Luckily, I only suffered for one song and after a short break THE FUEL hit the stage.
Opening up with the song "Seven Days," I immediately became enthused with the thundering bass and grooving heaviness this four-piece unit possessed. Other favorites included "Soapbox" and "Medicine." Both featuring hard driving rhythms and aggressive lead breaks.
These guys remind me of a mix of Soundgarden and Tool, but certainly have a distinction of their own with plenty of creative changes.
Headliners AMERICAN GOTHIC began with a synthesized intro and a narrated story of an early Gothic tale. Most of the songs were good and musicianship quite solid. However, the excessive overuse of synthesizers was monotonous and far too predictable. Some guitar driven songs offered blistering solos and intricate changes and were my favorites. Overall, they had their act together and seem to have a good following.
Clean up band this evening is STIFF. Taking the stage, they quickly proved they're not willing to give anything less than 100% to the remaining crowd. Great guitar riffs and lots of energy are the driving force with these guys.
Attention bands: Send your correspondence and/or comments to: Dave Moore, Box 2129, Orange, CA 92867.