Charlottesville - On September 18, 2010 at Durty Nelly’s, I rang in my 27^th birthday listening to the very talented, very theatrical, and the only one of their kind... the Rock ‘n’ Roll Cannibals!  I was impressed at their individual talents, along with their gruesomely gothic theme that infused originality into traditional 1950s style instrumentation.  Along with their zest for making serious rock ‘n’ roll, they offered a fresh perspective by mirroring who they are as aspiring musicians as well as who they are as individual personalities. 

I really could not have rung in the night with any other band besides these guys.  They were fascinating to watch, their rhythmically tempting sound soared and echoed profusely, and it was apparent these are extremely talented musicians who refuse to make their music stuffy and predictable.  I was pleasantly surprised at their candidness and their passion for creativity, which stem from loving what you do, what you create, and by simply having fun.  As Morgan Moran states, “We are serious about not being serious.”

The band is composed of Tristan Thorndyke (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Remy Duget (stand-up bass), Atticus Storall (lead guitar), and Morgan Moran (drums).  Influences listed on their MySpace page - including Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Chuck Berry, Ronnie Dawson, Gene Vincent, Dick Dale, Robert Johnson, Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, and the Cramps - combine to create a genre they classify as "Hillbilly Filth."  However, after hearing Tristan’s account of his interpretation of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Cannibals' collective sound, it was evident that the eye-catching, grotesque, 1950s-infused band created what he referred to as “Creepy Appalachian Hillbilly.”  Another element I observed during their show was how they combined comical and racy lyrics with traditional chord progressions and rhythmic flavors.  It is impressively edgy, hip, and genuinely inventive that this combination works so well together, and sets them apart from other local bands in Charlottesville.

Concerning their instrumentation during their set, they seemed to be like a revolving pinwheel.  Each instrument played off one another amazingly, ensuring their place as a piercing harmonic four-piece.  Tristan Thorndyke, the lead vocalist and rhythmic guitarist, was born to be a musician.  He has the personality to project a mean vocal ability and a theatrical demeanor towards the audience.  He holds nothing back, makes no reservations about who he is, what he wants to accomplish, and the steps he is willing to make that will take him to the next level.  His sexy, red-hot guitar rang dirty and deep, accompanying Atticus Storall’s sick lead electric guitar that oozed skill.  That electric sting and Moran’s resonating high-hat, became the perfect pairing.  When watching Storall’s finger placement upon his guitar’s neck, it was as if he was playing the piano on the neck of a guitar, moving faster and faster with each chord change.  Morgan Moran, whom I first associated as a bass player in the Falsies, switched it up and wailed on the drums as if she had always played them.  Talking to her solidified my perception that she is a natural born musician with an amazing ear for rhythm, sound, and an ability to adapt and learn quickly when playing different instruments.  Lastly, one instrument I have always found to be an amazing instrument is the stand-up bass.  It seems not only hard to maneuver, but also difficult to play, due to its unique angle.  However, Remy Duget was on point with his bass, holding down that heavy beat.  After the show, it was evident to see from the massive blood blister on his finger that it requires persistence and physical resistance to pain to play this particular instrument, and I commend his composure and grace he exhibited during his personal performance. 

As Michael Ponzini and I watched the Rock ‘n’ Roll Cannibals' performance until 2:00 A.M., I was intrigued by the audience and the elements of individuality and a personal appreciation for freedom.  Everyone had a grand time dancing while losing themselves and leaving their self-restrictions at the door.  It was such a tiny little space; however, it did not matter, and everyone became involved in the rare atmosphere of this particular Saturday night.  However, the personable attitude mixed with a little alternative grunge demeanor made the night’s ambiance chillingly surreal.  Each song seemed to bring out different levels of enjoyment that progressed throughout the night, continuously making the night more interesting.  In relation to the set list, many frighteningly fascinating songs tipped the scale from risqué to shocking.  However, their shock value impressed me; it was eerie how these songs made me feel comically relaxed.  The manner of expressionism in their songs such as "Wolf Man," "Slaughter," and "My Gals P*ssy" should have shocked me more so than they did; however, they displayed a dark sense of humor which I appreciated.

In conclusion, there exists a variety of shockingly funny elements to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Cannibals.  The night consisted of much more than your usual number of crazy hairdos and tattoos… It was an abnormally, surprising experience that combined raw rock ‘n’ roll with traditional classic instrumentation that you can only experience fully when you see them play live.  I enjoyed every minute of it, and they literally break the mold of other styles of music in this area.  The next time I want to break free from everyday constraints, I am definitely going to head their direction.  When I asked Tristan, “What does music mean to you?” he responded, “It’s an alternative to drudgery,.”  Morgan continued, “I don’t have to be boring - I mean, who wants to be boring? - and when playing music, I don’t have to be boring.”  Seeing them play, listening to their raunchy lyrics, and seeing their faithful fans revel in their guileless humor gave me a show I will never forget.   I guarantee The Rock ‘n’ Roll Cannibals will leave you frighteningly addicted to their approach to life and to music that will be anything but boring.

MySpace.com/Rock39n39RollCannibals

In addition, for other great shows, check out Durty Nelly’s Pub-Wayside Deli, located at 2200 Jefferson Park Ave. in Charlottesville.   

By Director and Correspondent: Helen Brown

Although originally from Marion Junction, Alabama, Helen has been living in Virginia for the last three years because she absolutely loves the Blue Ridge Mountains.  She attended Emory and Henry College in Emory, Virginia, gaining a degree in Philosophy and Psychology.  Helen moved to Charlottesville on a whim because of the unique music scene, interest in the food and wine Industry, and the desire to incorporate music into her professional aspirations.  She is looking forward to listening to an array of eclectic music, observing the local talent, and meeting some interesting people while working with the Magazine33 team!  See you around town ...