Last night at The Rickshaw Theatre, the lineup brought a mix of styles and energy that left a lasting impression—some of it literally, thanks to a certain drumstick incident.
The Fomites kicked things off with raw energy and chaotic enthusiasm. Unfortunately, not all of their antics landed well. While their sound had its moments, the drummer decided to launch a drumstick straight at me, hitting both my hand and face. He was lucky it barely missed my expensive camera and lens—otherwise, the night could have taken a very different turn. Whether it was an attempt at humor or just poor aim, it wasn’t appreciated. Thankfully, the music made up for some of the awkwardness, but I can’t say they left me eager for an encore.
Next up was Hawking, and they absolutely won me over. Their set was packed with energy and precision, showcasing their musicianship and stage presence. I was so impressed that I followed them on Spotify right after their performance—a rare move for me after just one show. They’ve got something special, and I’m excited to dig deeper into their catalog.
CKY closed the night with a performance that was nothing short of electrifying. Even as a two-piece band for this tour—due to their bassist being sidelined by an injury—they commanded the stage with the same raw energy and charisma they’ve been known for since their inception. Chad Ginsburg was the perfect showman, engaging with the crowd between songs, cracking jokes, and pulling the audience closer into the experience. His easygoing yet passionate vibe made every interaction feel personal, like he wasn’t just performing for the fans but truly sharing the night with them.
Behind the kit, Jess Margera was a powerhouse. His drumming was relentless, driving the set with precision and ferocity. Watching him work his magic up close gave me an even greater appreciation for his craft, and getting the chance to meet him after the show was an absolute highlight. Offstage, Jess was genuine, kind, and just as cool as you’d hope he’d be—a refreshing contrast to the sheer intensity he brings to the stage.
The crowd was phenomenal, bringing an energy that felt more like an arena show than a club show. CKY fans are clearly dedicated, and the band fed off that devotion, delivering a high-octane set that had everyone completely locked in. Even after their encore, chants for CKY to return filled the room, with fans still hoping for more. That kind of energy—where no one wants the night to end—is what live music is all about, and CKY left it all on the stage.
For me, capturing CKY on camera was a personal milestone. As a fan since their earliest days, being there to document their performance—while rocking a Grinch onesie and a battle vest full of band patches—was an experience I’ll never forget. Their stripped-down performance didn’t feel like anything was missing; it felt raw, authentic, and full of the grit that defines them. CKY continues to prove why they’re a cornerstone of so many fans’ playlists, and last night’s show was a testament to their enduring impact.
Overall, the night was a rollercoaster of emotions, from the frustrating moments to discovering a new favorite in Hawking and reconnecting with the iconic sound of CKY. Shows like these remind me why I love what I do, even when the road gets a little bumpy—or when drumsticks fly my way.
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