The legendary New York Dolls played in The Paard in April (thanks to Helmut Schmidt for the photo). These supposedly badass Rockers are really rather cute and not very punky at all, especially considering they are credited with sparking the US punk scene. It’s just good old rock n roll! But the energy shown by the stick thin David Johanson, who must be eligible for a free bus pass by now, would put many younger bands to shame. His side-kick guitarist Syl Sylvain clearly enjoys this on-the-road recreational post-retirement activity as he led the band back on stage for three encores.

I was also impressed by the local support band ‘The Deaf’ with complete nutcase Spike on guitar/vocals and the gorgeous Miss Fuzz on bass. They certainly got the crowd warmed up with their raw garage beat sound and I can’t wait to see them again. Luckily for you they will be playing as part of the Walk the Line festival in the Paard on May 14.

And that leads us on, without further ado, to the rest of my gig recommendations for the coming month…

The Hague

De Vinger (Begijnestraat 25)
6/5 The Lurkers. Pioneering English punk rock band who formed in 1976. Their debut single, Shadow, was voted 12th best track of 1977 by John Peel and was followed closely by Ain’t got a clue and Just thirteen… and many more!

The Paard (Prinsegracht 12)

8/5 The Asteroid Galaxy Tour. I cannot recommend these Danes enough. Sounding like a cross between Duffy and Bjork, their tiny singer Mette Lindberg has a big big voice and great songs!

9/5 The Residents. Weird US avant-garde band reminiscent of Devo who have been around since 1972. Interestingly the group has tried to keep the identities of the band members secret, by often wearing giant eyeball helmets with top hats and tuxedos on stage!

14/5 – 15/5 The Walk the line Festival. This festival organized by the Crossing Border team, takes place in various venues in the Hague, but centered on The Paard. Agreat mix of garage and alternative bands are promised including The Deaf who I mentioned above. Check out the great festival website www.walkthelinefestival.nl and also our own hague on line review here.

29/5 Berlin Ruft An presents Rococo Rot. Kraftwerk style electronic.

Amsterdam

Paradiso (Wetteringschans 6-9)

4/5 The Archie Bronson Outfit. These English Rockers with a dark edge are promoting their new album Coconut.

7/5 Faithless. British dance/electronic band with a huge following.

8/5 Pavement. One of the most popular and influential lo-fi rock bands of the 90s.

Melkweg (Lijnbaansgracht 234a)

6/5 She and Him. Alternative ditties with a folky edge.

12/5 Eskimo Joe. Slick Ozzy rock band with soul.

20/5 Audio Bullys – Electronic music group from the UK – great songs with a distinct London sound.

22/5 The Slackers. Great New York ska band.

23/5 The New Pornographers. Canadian/US catchy power-pop.

28/5 Hugh Masakela. The classic South African sound.

Rotterdam

Watt (West-Kruiskade 26)

8/5 God is an Astronaut – These Irish lads perform powerful instrumental compositions in front of films with disturbing images.

So get out there and listen to some great live music. Send your band related feedback to mike@thehagueonline.com.
 

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