WEST COAST PERFORMER MAGAZINE - JANUARY 2005
Addison / the Society of Rockets
12 Galaxies
San Francisco, CA
November 11, 2004
WITH SIGNS PROCLAIMING HIS PROTESTS OF 12 GALAXIES, THE CIA'S war crimes behind closed doors in Washington, and not being paid as a film actor (all at once), Frank Chu is a man who has carved out a place for himself in San Francisco. To know Frank is to know an intellect who can divide $142.38 into three in a split second, and who may even invite you to the Palace Hotel to enjoy "some nice regular Budweisers in a bottle." The club 12 Galaxies (named after Frank's protests) hosted the Frank Chu Experience, featuring Addison with the Society of Rockets.
Josh Arce, Addison's lead singer made a point of explaining why Frank Chu is so celebrated. "Frank is the most honest person I know or will ever know, even though the story he tells is probably the most implausible story you'll ever hear... And when the galaxies let up on him for just long enough, Frank will likely tell you something that makes it clear why he is such a special person."
Over 40 of Frank's colorful "Cuxgrozenikal" protest signs were mounted on the dark walls, along with artists' work paying homage to the unlikely muse. My favorite piece was a miniature plaster replica of Mr. Chu, complete with sign.
Taking the stage first was Mr. Chu himself, presenting the performers by protesting the populations of all twelve galaxies... and introducing the Society of Rockets, a society conceptualized by Mr. Chu and annexed as a band name. Formerly the Shimmer Kids Underpop Society, Frank's influence inspired a new name just in time for the release of their latest album, Sunset Homes.
Accompanied by projected vintage home video, the Society of Rockets' performance radiated a love and appreciation for creating music. On stage their sound appeared improvisational, a tinkering of instruments (including a Theremin) and notes, seemingly working to get each song just right. With a southwestern twang, and a few cowboy hats, the group started off their set with a punchy rockabilly sound. The tone on the next song abruptly switched into a soothing, vocals-driven tune. Their set was short, each song jumping out unexpectedly with a completely different style from the last. While some critics may say this equals lack of consistent voice, I say I was thoroughly entertained.
Headlining the show was Addison, a foursome made up of Josh Arce on vocals and guitar, Ville on lead guitar, Luis Baptista on bass, and Paolo Asuncion on drums. Self-described as, "Alternative rock, plus Britpop with a splash of Seattle," the three-year-old Addison is still fairly new to the San Francisco music scene. Headed to the studio in December to "demo our whole repertoire," they expect to release their debut album next month.
After paying their respects to Mr. Chu, Addison ignited a fevered dance-off when they started with their first song, "(Don't) Shoot the Messenger." With a Brit-infused sound and a lot of hair-twirling on the dance floor, I felt like I was on an Austin Powers set. Their high energy drew the audience in, as Addison carefully manipulated the music to draw attention to their insightful, yet relatable lyrics. Weaving Greek tragedy into their music for a more subdued sound with "Eurydice," Addison find an imaginative approach to the reliable lost-love theme. Exploring the myth of Orpheus, Addison create a powerful allegory that speaks to the insecurity of being in love: "Although we walk together as a pair, I've no assurance that you're even there." With smooth lead vocals, backed up by a cheerful Luis on bass, Addison picked up the pace to end the night with the notable "Freeze Out."
Although Addison's lyrics are sometimes melancholy, their sound is not. They're likeable, danceable, and straightforward, with Ville playing an impassioned guitar, and a fiery Asuncsion on drums. If you like rock, you'll appreciate Addison's catchy yet inspired music.
-Kendra MacLeod
