Concert Review: Switchblade Romeo

Since learning that Beasts of Burden artist Benjamin Dewey was in a band, I have wanted to review them, but there hadn't been any good opportunities. Watching Jesse Valenzuela last week, there was a flyer on the table for upcoming shows. That is how I ended up at the White Eagle Saloon two Thursdays in a row, and on my birthday.

I am so glad I made it.

The performance was a blast: fun and friendly and filling the venue with sound.

I think there are a few key factors that work in Switchblade Romeo's favor.

First, the band pulls from a wide variety of musical traditions. Dewey himself, on guitar, has previously played bluegrass and folk. Singer Jeremy Barlow and drummer Jason Lusk were in a punk band together. You don't necessarily hear those elements blended into a Switchblade Romeo set, which has a more traditional rock feel. However, every member of the band - rounded out by Lee Dawson on guitar and Gabe Fischer on bass - is skilled and ready to deliver for their part of a great show.

That great show also really appears to be a good time for them. There is an easy camaraderie and interplay within the band. Barlow took time last night to acknowledge which members had written which songs, indicating an equality in who gets to contribute to the overall sound. Some bands really capitalize on unhappiness and stress, but this (despite a seemingly boundless energy) felt relaxed. They are having a fun and they bring the audience along.

One very real reason they were free to so much fun is that each band member is working in the comics industry. That may make them the most Portland band in the area. (You could argue for that making them the most Milwaukie band too.)

In any case, that means music is not their main gig. Therefore I only have one link for them, and I don't know when they are playing next.

However, if you get a chance to see them, go for it. It should be a blast.

https://www.instagram.com/switchbladeromeo/