The last live show I went was last months Whiskey of the Damned and I have been jonesing for another live show to see. Last week I found out the the Swaggerin’ Growlers were coming to town. Just what I needed!
The Swaggerin’ Growlers are a 5 piece featuring the standard guitar, bass and drums plus fiddle and accordion with a mission to enjoy the road and bringing their brand of Celtic Punk. Their stop in St Louis was on the last leg of their tour that took them down the east coast to Florida then west to Texas and up to Kansas before getting here. After their last experience here of having no audience and someone attempting to break into their van, I am glad they gave St Lou a chance to redeem herself.
The venue was at the Heavy Anchor, a neat little bar in south city that has a great selection of beer and nice strong pouring hand. The night’s entertainment was 3 bands with Swaggerin’ Growlers up second.
Before they started playing I talked with Johnny Swagger for while and clearly his passion and knowledge shows. Meanwhile I think I may have been the only person who had heard of these guys and was there specifically for them.
Swaggerin’ in my opinion blew the joint down! The crowd received them great and more than a few fans were made. The songs were great and the bands energy was awesome. Even on last legs of the tour these guys are bringing it and the joy of playing is very evident – this is the stuff that makes good bands great, not getting stuck, not going through motions but putting it all there! I do have one complaint for them…their set was too damn short! (Not their fault though since they played second – but regardless I would have enjoyed seeing these guys play some more.)
Not only are these guys great at their craft, they are great guys – they were friendly and funny and appreciative to the accolades of people who saw them.
In conclusion, these guys are a must see and must have a drink with! I have to say 2012 is starting out great, first Whiskey of the Damned.and now Swaggerin’ Growlers! Next up is The Mighty Regis, scheduled to play late March with the venue not yet announced so I have good faith the trend will continue!
Slainte!
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