Bartman’s Birthday Bash at Madison Pub

By Kurt Clark / NehiStripes-Photo@metalfan.com

Five very different bands joined up to play a birthday party Barton Wickham at Madison Pub in Everett, on 17 February 2018. There was metal, hard rock, garage rock, theater rock, and fusion rock all in one show. The diversity in styles, plus having many of the bands’ fans in attendance, made the night one to remember.

The 69 Lines started the show with their heavy sound from a love of Desert Scene and Seattle Sound. This trio includes Jeryd Smith on guitar, Christian White on drums, and with special guest Matt Youngblood on bass – filling in for the regular Mark Crawley. T69L gets their sound from a love for modern hard and stoner rock styles – blending interesting lyrics and subject matter with consistent bass, intricate drums, and Jeryd’s fuzz-filled picking style. I find myself tapping a toe mindlessly every time they play. This was the third time I’ve seen them in a year.

Look for an album from them in 2018.

Evan Wick– also a trio – followed second with their singer-songwriter rock style. They opened with a progressive 70s instrumental called “I’m A Cat,” and continued with a batch of original songs, sung by lead-man Evan Wickham. Their style reminded me sometimes of Dave Matthews, only with electric guitar. It’s the kind of music where a person can close their eyes and just take in the groove. Evan added intricate guitar solos to each piece, proving he was a veteran axe man.

Method13 took to the stage third that night. The band has been very active lately, with a loud metal sound and active stage presence. Aaron Steinbacher’s growling vocals are perfect for their hyperactivity. Craig Cabana and Aaron Alday share guitar duty, and are equally energetic – moving and jumping as they shred. Gerardo Pelaez accompanies with an honest deep bass, while Michael Pelaez gives out equal amounts of solid drumming and photo-worthy facial expressions. It’s pretty clear the guys are having fun on stage!

Baby And The Nobodies is fronted by singer/model Rebecca “Baby” Terry. I’ve been trying to reconnect with this band for the last year and a half, ever since I saw them at The Valley in Tacoma in June 2016. Conflicting schedules and shows just didn’t make it possible, until I got the invite for this show. I knew I would be there no matter what!

If you like 60s garage rock, Piston Ready, The Monomen, Prophets Of Addiction, The Knack, Blondie, or The Go-Gos you are sure to love BATN.

Their songs are rightfully heavy with guitar work by The Rev. Jason Bennett is a veteran drummer in the local scene, and adds a reliable beat with a hard hit. Bassist Chris Ewers adds backup vocals, while jamming his bass low-slung like The Ramones. Listening to BATN is a good time. Seeing and listening, well that’s just a recipe for a permanent smile.

Cryptamnesia is a musical project from front-man Josh Hamilton. I’ve known Josh now about four years, from the days when he sang with Ravages Of Time. Josh has always blended art with music, and has one of my favorite rock voices ever; edgy, experimental, unapologetic and full of power. Aaron Kirby played bass and added backup vocals. Thomas Queen played guitar and also sang on the side. Michelangelo Gilchrestius was on his basic drum kit, electing to give solid rhythm support with the bare essentials – in the same way that Ringo Starr played with only a simple setup. Michelangelo’s is a deserving drummer.

Cryptamnesia brought it on heavy, hard and loud, then kept the energy up through the rest of the night.

Be sure to catch them when you can. Josh’s dedication to entertainment and media really brings out the strengths and character of the band on stage.

Many of the shows I attend combine bands that are like-minded in style. The Birthday Bash at I welcomed it, and want more like it. Of course, this is a nod to the talent in all five groups and the thoughtfulness of Barton “Bartman” Wickham to put together something with the variety that shared his favorite groups.

I’m looking forward more shows just like this one!