A funny thing happened last Saturday night in Milwaukee; More than 1200 people packed the Rave’s Eagle’s Club for an evening of music. However, no national act graced the marquee, no tour busses jammed the side streets, and no groupies were on hand to utilize their all access (tits) passes.  Instead, 14 of Milwaukee’s best came together for one final Emergenza evening. At stake was a gig at Detroit’s aptly named Majestic Theater and a slot in the Emergenza regional final.

Congratulations, Marashino (in the picture, Marashino with the Emergenza team and Brass Bell Music Owner Todd Gaulke). From the moment these guys took the stage, there was no doubting Marashino’s prowess. Displaying a cohesiveness and musical ability great enough to impress even the most cynic of scene-sters, Marashino made the night their own. They must have made an especially thorough impression on the judges that evening, as the band also took home awards for best guitarist, bassist, and vocalist.

Also delivering an impressive performance Saturday night was Way to Fall.  This is a band comprised of strong vocals, gutty guitar licks, and a drummer that was just ridiculous. It’s a fitting tribute that said drummer took home a set of Sabians in recognition of his skills.
Variety played a vital role at the Rave, keeping everything fresh and never stagnant. Helping tremendously with this role was Catch of the Day.

Do you want to know how to spot a bad ska band? Check and see if after 3 songs, you can’t tell the different anymore between tunes, if you’re just plain bored. Never boring and always engaging, Catch of the Day seemed to turn even the scary pierced kids into ska fans for a few moments.

The oddities didn’t stop there. It’s been a few days since the show and I’m still trying to figure out just what the hell The Boombox Republic plays. I of course mean this as a sincere compliment. Staying original in any scene is no small feat, and to do it well an even greater one. The Boombox Republic manages to achieve all this while still being accessible.  Hats off to these boys for a great show.

Horns weren’t the only instruments vying for attention during a guitarfest. Neverstatic took the stage with a cello in lieu of a bass player, as well as a mandolin. I’ve got two things to say about these guys (and gals): 1: Judging by the rabid applause after even one of your songs, I seriously doubt I was the only one impressed that night with your songs and abilities, and 2: You’ve got balls. It can’t be easy to take your music on stage in front of an audience more accustomed to something else. Balls indeed.

I also must mention Elatia as another of the most interesting bands of the night. Vocals from Mars and a raw tribal energy are the trademarks of this group.

Filling out the evening were Drop Test, Fever, and Defy, three bands of exceptional quality and all featuring solid rhythm sections. Crowd favorites Naych came through with their second strong Rave set; make sure you see these guys again when you get the chance. It’s in your own best interest.
Last but not least I need to make note of Strange Land and Sidetract. These two bands keep it simple in a good way. It’s not always easy to do so when playing in an era which rewards unnecessary complexities in music.

That’s it. Emergenza is finished in Milwaukee for 2005. However there’s much more to follow. National finals are looming in Boston, Atlanta, and Chicago. From there it’s a short jaunt to Germany."