Spank You Very Much, Gordy—Some argue that Gordy Andersen helped launch Albuquerque's independent music scene as we know it. Way back in 1978, he and some friends gave Albuquerque a nascent taste of hardcore punk, in the form of a little band called Jerry's Kidz. Nearly 30 years later, Gordy's still blowing out eardrums across the Duke City in your favorite band (for the second year running, according to our Best of Burque poll), Black Maria.

He’s Not Dead Yet!

Gordy Andersen celebrates 50 years on the planet Rock with Sasquatch, SuperHeavyGoatAss, Word Salad, Fast Heart Mart and, of course, Black Maria. Friday, April 20, at Launchpad (21+, $8). See "Music to Your Ears" for more. (LM)

Björk meets Slayer

One review described metal/industrial/punk duo/quartet Vertigo Venus as "What Nine Inch Nails would sound like if Trent Reznor had a sense of humor." It's appropriate to use the "don't judge a book by its cover" adage when discussing the band but, frankly, just based on looks, I don't think anyone could tell what the hell they sound like. Even after giving the band a listen I'm not so sure. It's a highly volatile mix of synthesizer, B52-ish vocals and ’80s metal guitar. The band's music is written by brothers Chris and Jeffie Cannon, who are joined on stage by a drummer and bassist to fill out the live sound. The brothers spoke with the Alibi and provided some insight into what makes their eccentric ensemble tick.

Drummer looks to leave a good-time sonic residue behind

Good drummers keep time and move things forward. Great drummers also sculpt sonic space, expanding and contracting it, shaping it to the musical purpose at hand. Matt Wilson belongs to the latter category.

Putting the sex back in sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll

Chicago’s self-proclaimed sex rockers Bang! Bang! write songs that are, to borrow a line from a late-night dating service commercial, fun and flirty.