And Now for Something Completely Different

"And, on a different note, here's some new shit," announced Barcodez of Photosynthesizers from the stage after acknowledging the creative journey the band has taken to get to where they are today.

And tonight was Photosynthesizers' record release show at Gallery 5 for the new album Speakers in Black Holes. When I got there around 10, the show was already behind because the band G.D.A.C. were stuck in traffic driving down from Philly (and no doubt having their souls sucked out by the merciless I-95).

But once the female-fronted Afro-punk band took the stage, they were all about some music (and hair, lots of excellent hair). Their music crosses genres, mixing elements of rock, punk, girl groups and anything else they care to throw in.

The Philly girls' stage banter was especially colorful ("Are we talking about oral sex here?") and the crowd responded enthusiastically.

They broke down quickly afterwards and then it was Photosynthesizers' turn to rock the room. With no fanfare, they began to play and the crowd of devoted fans was right there with them.

And it was a diverse crowd, too. A guy in a monogrammed sweater vest, plaid shirt and khakis danced next to a a guy in a monster t-shirt, baggy jeans and hat. There were a lot of dreadlocks in the room.

The set list was a mixture, too, giving the crowd both familiar and new material ("This is the first time we've done this song live.").

Given the unique quality of their sound, which they like to call Tronic Soul School Hip Hop, it's not surprising that they appeal to so many different kinds of music lovers. I became an instant fan the very first time I heard them at WRIR's birthday bash.

I would never call myself a hip hop fan, but when you've got an excellent live band fronted by both a male and female vocalist trading/sharing vocals and with plenty of soul woven in, I'm a fan of whatever you call it.

Because it was the record release show, the band had agreed beforehand to dress up and Barcodez was looking especially fine in a three-piece suit and colorful scarf.

Vocalist Samsun made it clear that, "Dresses are not for onstage," even though she'd worn one and looked great in it (of course, I am partial to dresses myself).

Just before they played their last song, Barcodez announced that the six-piece band's after-party would be at the Cellar Door, no doubt the smallest basement bar in RVA. I can only imagine how fast that place will fill up.

I decided against going, but I've no doubt that there's a sweaty, dancing good time happening right about now.

Because after all, new shit needs to be celebrated.