Ill Niño, Flaw, & 40 Below Summer

At The El Rey 

The last time I saw Ill Niño I was blown away by their performance, so I was more than happy to check them out again.

The billing on the marquee led me to believe that 40 Below Summer would be the direct support for Ill Niño.  Unfortunately, that was not the case and the BiteMe! Squad wound up catching only the last three songs of their set.  Needless to say, I was a little disappointed but happy that I got a taste.  The 40 Below crew put their heart and soul into the last couple of songs of their set, which led me to believe that the entire performance was filled with lots of energy.  Just before their last song, vocalist Max Illidge got the crowd riled up as his expressed his discontent for The Darkness.  “Don’t let bands like that take over,” he screamed, “Keep metal pure – not a joke.”  That said, the band tore into their last tune and the crowd set the pit on fire.  Sadly, as soon as 40 Below left the stage the house DJ cranked The Darkness album over the speakers. It was way too painful, so the BiteMe! Squad had to exit the building.

While we were hanging out front with all the smokers and fellow Darkness haters we spotted Johnny Santos of SpineShank.  He looked as cute as ever and after some hugs and hellos we sent him on his way.  Awhile later we followed suit to see what Flaw had to offer.  To our dismay, it wasn’t much and after a few songs we were back out with the smokers.

By the time Ill Niño hit the stage we were ready to let loose.  Before the first song was even over, it was obvious that we were in for a wild ride.  And, sure enough, this performance was as impressive as the one I had witnessed a year or so before.  The band’s amiability added dimension and character to the music.  Cristian’s voice was stronger than ever.  Even though there were a few new additions to the group, Ill Niño’s set was tight and solid.  The boys from New Jersey delivered one high-energy tune after another packed with sexy Latin rhythms and pummeling beats.  And, when it was over everyone in the house was drained and satisfied.     -NIN

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