For the first time, Stampede Bar and Grill in Papakura hosted its first Rock gig.

The unlikely establishment, known more for its BBQ style cuisine and Friday night DJ’s, stepped out of the box with a night of difference.

Different is good and what a turnout there was. Many a bogan unveiled their support and the small space was quickly filled.

First up was Auckland duo, Skinny Hobos, who have been creating noise for some time and quickly amassing a large following with their unapologetic gritty alternative rock. Full of pep and great showmanship, the two are slick on stage and the amount of support the crowd showed was a perfect show of unity, especially when their current stomper, The Merchant of Tirau assaulted our ears.

Unfortunately, for reasons unknown, the sound quality thereafter turned worse for wear. Maybe there is a good reason why Stampede have never put on Rock gigs, but it affected City of Souls and Devilskin greatly.

Small establishments are some of the best venues for Rock and there are plenty out there to vouch for it, but if you don’t get the sound right, you risk losing a big chunk of the crowd.

However, credit should go to City of Souls who still palmed a lot of the crowd’s enthusiasm. I might not be a fan of theirs, but they still manage to garner a lot of power in a small space.

Devilskin, of course stole the night with their presence, but even they couldn’t be spared from the awful sound quality that didn’t let up till the show ended. It’s the first time I’ve ever had to say that about Devilskin, who are on form every other time I’ve seen them, so this was a real disappointment and put a real damper on the night. I would love to say that hearing the new album live was a great experience, but I can only be honest from the album review, which impressed the hell out of me.

However, their interactions with the crowd were stellar and their humbleness never ceases to amaze.

I’m sure Stampede could redeem themselves in time because as a venue I feel it’s a good spot that generates a lot of interest. It’s nice to see a band like Devilskin play in small towns that usually get a bad rap, or forgotten entirely, so here’s hoping good things can come out of it.

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