If you missed Metalachi’s tour last September, don’t let your second opportunity to experience the portmanteau-genred fivesome pass you by. It’s a rarity for a modern metal band to cultivate such an accessible and (dare I say) unique schtick. And the Hollywood-based group isn’t merely resting on its horse tranquilizer/Juárez backstory; Metalachi’s mariachi covers of classic metal tunes actually rip. (See the band’s détournement of Dio’s “Rainbow in the Dark," Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades” and Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” for proof.) El Cucuy, Ramon Holiday, Warren Moscow, Vega de la Rockha, Pancho Rockafeller and Maximilian "Dirty" Sanchez purvey their unironic sound at Launchpad (618 Central SW) on Thursday, Jan. 9. This 21-and-over gig cranks up at 9:30pm, and admission is $8. And they don’t need no stinkin’ opener.
Four Up Americana In Abq
Wildewood
David Dabney
When I hear Meredith Wilder sing, her dulcet tones often trigger a Zen half-smile. Performing solo, vocalist and guitarist Wilder―known for work with folk-rock trio Wildewood―shares her serenity-inducing vox on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Low Spirits (2823 Second Street NW). Headlining Americana foursome The Saltine Ramblers aren’t straight-up homage; if titling their latest with a Back to the Future quote isn’t sufficient proof, see their eccentricity on both Ramblers’ originals and renditions of classic tunes. And The Squash Blossom Boys incorporate bluegrass, Cajun and old-time conventions, and they honed their improv skills in a variety of venues. Both bands join Wilder in hosting a 21-plus fête worthy of a haunting by Bill Monroe’s ghost. The people’s music sparks up at 9pm, and admission is $7.
Four Up Ebm, No Wave And Afi
Youth Code
Courtesy of artist
To be brutally honest, the headliner for the below-described show—AFI aka A Fire Inside—leaves me cold. But LA-based AFI tourmates Youth Code, an electro-industrial duo, and post-punk/no wave trio Coming are worth the price of admission. One symbol of Youth Code’s avant cred is the distinction of being among a handful of acts—other than Psychic TV—to be distributed by Edward O’Dowd and Genesis P-Orridge’s newish label, Angry Love Productions. Youth Code’s self-titled full-length debut dropped on Dais Records this past September, and that sample-rich release exemplifies the duo’s influences, “muscle and hate.” Electro fans ages 13 and over ought consider donning some latex for this gig on Saturday, Jan. 11, at Sunshine Theater (120 Central SW). The headbanging and arm-dancing starts at 8pm, and presale tickets are $27.
Four Up From Roaches To Rolex
Waka Flocka Flame
Reid Rolls
Editor’s note: Ghetto Gentlemen has announced this concert’s cancellation owing to a lack of presale ticket purchases. Waka Flocka Flame is no stranger to controversy. Currently the subject of a lawsuit by Gucci Mane, an outpouring of sympathy after the recent suicide of his younger brother, KayO Redd, has drowned out allegations against Flame née Juaquin Malphurs and his mother, Debra Antney (who used to manage Gucci Mane). If you care less about industry drama than hit songs, consider checking out Waka Flocka at Sister (407 Central NW) on Wednesday, Jan. 15. Fat Fish, Boy Dirrt, Kron Jeremy and DJ Souliva open this 21-plus gig starting at 8pm. Presale tickets range from $20 to $25, and there’s a pre-show Waka Flocka meet-and-greet at Just Urban Smoke Shop (1319 San Mateo NE) from 6 to 7pm.
