American Bang - Sept 17, 2010 - The Tralf, Buffalo NY
Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at 9:38AM 
Review/Photos by Thomas S. Orwat, Jr.
Buffalo, NY - One of the most promising new bands in Rock today - American Bang performed an intense set in the intimate settings of the Tralf in downtown Buffalo last Friday night. American Bang were the middle act of a three band bill that also included new comers Atom Smash and modern rock sensations Cavo. But, American Bang were clearly the stars of the evening. Their 45 minute set consisted of high energy renditions of tracks from their August 31th released debut, self titled CD on Reprise Records. This CD was produced by veteran producer Bob Rock and is without doubt one of the best rock records of the year. The band's sound can best be described as a mix of stripped down classic rock with hints of southern rock and modern rock flair. The band consists of Jaren Johnson- vocals/guitar, Neil Mason-drums, Ben Brown-lead guitar and Kelby Ray-bass.
In addition, to the great songs American Bang is an amazing live act. The amount of energy their perform with is truly entertaining. And they have a good sense of humor as well. Midway through the set vocalist/guitarist Jaren Johnson stated “We are from Nashville and I don’t think we could be any further from home.” He continued, “But as long as there’s some Jack Daniels around we feel like we are home.” He then made an offer to the crowd jokingly promising, “The first person that brings me a shot of Jack will get a free t-shirt from our friends in Atom Smash.” The members of Atom Smash were in the audience laughing at the joke; even the person who rushed the shot up to the stage smirked a bit when she couldn’t redeem her efforts for a shirt. Not too many bands could get away with that, but it was all in fun, the way rock is suppose to be.
Highlights of the show included performances of the band’s first single “Wild and Young” and also the band's current single the down and dirty “Whiskey Walk.” This track will help break American Bang to the masses, it is a kick ass rock anthem.
I can't said enough good things about this band, they are loud, gritty, raw and fantastic. Frontman Jaren Johnson is a true rockstar, he has all the tools to get the job done. Trust me, American Bang is going to be huge, it's just a matter of time. You can catch the band on tour through December with The Gracious Few, which features ex members of Live and Candlebox.
For more check out www.AmericanBang.com
Thomas
