At the age of 23, I already feel like an old man. I never really go out and I’m bitter at the new generation because my generation was obviously the best one in the history of mankind ever.
I am also a half music snob, especially when it concerns live music. I will not pay to see just anyone live. Nowadays, with so many bands sounding alike, why even bother? There are certain bands I will actually go out and support, and this is where this list comes in. It is in no particular order, but for all you people who are always skittish about seeing live music (which aren’t many but bear with me!), these are the acts you should make an exception for. Without further adieu…
1. Gogol Bordello (Official Website) – led by Ukrainian Eugene Hutz (who famously played Elijah Wood’s guide in Everything Is Illuminated), this NYC-based band plays what can be best described as “gypsy punk”. Although based in America, many of the 
members (there are nine total) are from other countries including Russia and Israel and all these different cultures mix together to form something truly unique. Live, they are probably the most energetic band in the United States, if not the entire world. From start to finish, Hutz and company are going full throttle, putting everything onto the stage. Their musicianship is second to none and their two female percussionists play anything from the cymbals to the washboard. Watching them is like watching a block party in another country, and you can’t help but suck in that energy and spend their whole set dancing away.
Best Live Song: “Baro Foro” by far. Usually played last, it’s a ten minute epic gypsy punk song that also mixes in another song called “Indestructible”. It starts slow and slowly crescendos, being about 90% instrumental. Everyone dances up on stage and the female percussionists have a tendency to surf the crowd on a giant bass drum. If you want insanity that is actually fun, this is where you get it.
Article comments
1 - Cindal Lee Heart
I am in absolute agreement with everything you have stated in this article.
Right down to the first paragraph, as I too am a 23 year old with a huge chip on my shoulder, and I treat life like it has already gone by.
I admit, that I do the same with my music/concerts. So I certainly appreciate this list, you have drawn my attention.
Cindal L. Heart
2 - Jonathan Sullivan
I'm glad someone else feels the same haha, I always feel awkward that I've got friends my age partying and acting like teenagers, but here I am paying bills and acting like I'm hitting 40. You should definitely check these bands out live. The best part is with The Leftovers and Phenomenauts, they aren't as well-known so you don't even have to spend a lot of money to see them. Definite bang for your buck.
3 - Kevin Gustafson
The Phenomenauts are a live band. I bought one of the earlier albums and it sounded weak and not close to their live performances. You need the visuals to like them. They have a big following in SF.
4 - Jonathan Sullivan
The visuals drew me in, but I also love their music recorded too. I'm a sucker for rockabilly and they have some really good songs.