Vaguess Takes the Observatory by Storm
Photos by Vera “Vicious Velma” Hernandez
Vaguess took the stage at The Observatory in Santa Ana, California. The crowd, primarily gathered to witness the headlining act, Matt and Kim, seemed unsure of what to expect from this enigmatic opening band. However, as the first notes reverberated through the venue, it was clear that Vaguess was about to deliver something unique, something reminiscent of indie rock and punk colliding in a whirlwind of sound.
As Vaguess stepped into the spotlight, they exuded a cool and confident vibe. Led by Vinny Earley, the band dived headfirst into their set, crafting a sound that evoked the spirit of Descendents intertwined with the essence of new wave, resulting in a gritty and unapologetic punk rock fusion. Vaguess’ music was a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from extreme sentimentality to bleak desperation, all tied together with self-aware sarcasm and wit.
Jennifer French, with her expertise in synth, brought something uniquely cool to the band. You could clearly see the electric chemistry between Jennifer and Vinny on stage. Her ethereal synth textures and mesmerizing vocals blended seamlessly with Vinny's raw and energetic presence, adding an extra layer of depth and atmosphere to their sound.
Guitarist Graeme Whynot consistently stole the show with his extraordinary skills, effortlessly weaving intricate melodies and electrifying solos into Vaguess' performances. His presence on stage added a layer of musical finesse that was truly captivating. Meanwhile, drummer Richard Hamilton was the rock-solid foundation, carrying the music with his precise and dynamic beats. His rhythmic prowess provided the backbone for Vaguess' diverse range of songs, allowing the band to transition seamlessly between genres and deliver their energetic performances with flawless timing.
One particular moment after the show stands out vividly. I couldn't help but be moved by the band's performance, especially the energy that bassist Raul Garcia exuded on stage. I approached him and told him how happy he looked playing bass, and how much I admired the passion he poured into his performance. His eyes lit up with a genuine appreciation for the compliment, and it was a brief but heartfelt exchange that highlighted the band's connection with their audience.
The enigmatic Vinny Earley has been the driving force behind Vaguess. He's created a prolific and frenzied body of work that bounces seamlessly between jangly indie, sardonic and biting punk, and new wave. One of the most intriguing aspects of Vaguess is the way Earley self-produces the bulk of the catalog, recording all instruments himself while employing a rotating cast of heavy-hitting underground musicians to deliver a tight auditory onslaught for their live performances.
It was clear that the audience was a bit perplexed. Some stood there awkwardly, not quite sure how to respond to the sonic assault coming from the stage. The audience found themselves standing there, some awkwardly swaying, others cautiously nodding their heads, and a few brave souls tentatively inching towards the front. It was a moment of collective hesitation, a brief interlude where the unfamiliarity of Vaguess' musical onslaught met the audience's expectations head-on.
That's when Vinny, the enigmatic frontman himself, stepped up to the microphone with a sly grin and a hint of sarcasm in his voice. He addressed the elephant in the room, acknowledging the audience's uncertain response. With a charismatic charm, he uttered those memorable words, "You guys can move if you want. Or not." It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the band's irreverent attitude and their willingness to challenge conventions. Vaguess had built their reputation on taking risks, on refusing to play it safe. Their music was a daring collision of genres, an audacious experiment that defied easy categorization. It was a testament to their artistic integrity and their commitment to forging a unique path in the world of music.
In that instant, a transformation occurred. The audience's hesitation morphed into a sense of liberation. A few tentative sways turned into fervent dancing, and the cautious nods became enthusiastic headbanging. Vaguess had broken down the invisible barrier that often separates performers from their audience. They had invited everyone to join in the rebellion against conformity, to embrace the unexpected, and to lose themselves in the unapologetic sonic journey that Vaguess had embarked upon. From that point onward, the show became an electrifying communion between the band and their audience. It was a reminder that music, at its core, is an invitation to break free from the ordinary and surrender to the extraordinary.
One of Vaguess' most compelling and emotionally resonant tracks is "When It's Gone." This song is a lyrical journey that takes the listener through the complex landscape of love and its inevitable transformations. Earley's vocals, carrying a mix of vulnerability and yearning, painted a vivid picture of the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies love. His voice seemed to echo the sentiments of countless souls who have stood on the precipice of romance, teetering between hope and uncertainty.
But "When It's Gone" is not content with simply celebrating the euphoria of new love. Instead, it delves into the inevitable complexities that follow. The song's narrative takes a poignant turn, exploring the harsh reality of love losing its luster. It's a theme that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of a relationship's evolution.
The poignant line, "I have so much, but it's never enough," encapsulates the bittersweet truth that love, in its various forms, can be both profoundly fulfilling and achingly incomplete. It's a sentiment that speaks to the universal human experience of longing for something more, even when we possess so much. Vaguess skillfully navigates this emotional terrain with a keen sense of introspection. The music swells and contracts, mirroring the ebb and flow of love's unpredictable tides. The result is a song that not only resonates with its audience on a personal level but also showcases the band's prowess in crafting songs that are both musically compelling and emotionally evocative.
Vaguess manages to infuse their sound with a raw, biting punk energy that sets them apart and makes them distinctly their own. They're known for their ability to seamlessly navigate between these influences, creating a sound that's both familiar and refreshingly original. In essence, Vaguess is a band that refuses to be pigeonholed. Their music effortlessly bridges the gap between indie, punk, and new wave, all while delivering biting social commentary and introspection. Their live performance is an electrifying testament to their dedication, and their music serves as a poignant reminder that sometimes, the most profound emotions are wrapped in layers of sarcasm and wit.
In the world of indie rock, Vaguess is a refreshing enigma. They have a knack for crafting songs that are both catchy and thought-provoking, and their live shows are nothing short of exhilarating. As they continue to evolve and challenge the norms of the music industry, we can't help but be excited to see where Vaguess will take us next. In a world of predictability, Vaguess reminds us that sometimes, it's the unconventional that truly stands out.