***
Though it was a heart-rending decision, having to choose between taking in Cobra High rather than face the unblinking reality that 764-HERO were, in fact, playing their last show at EMP's Sky Church, I opted to head over to Graceland to see Cobra High in action. Nothing gets me so invigorated as seeing a new local band quietly come in and establish itself as an instant Must See, and Cobra High certainly fall into that category. The singer, guitarist, and bassist all slam away at keyboards while minding their other duties, which caused several thoughtful digressions on my part as I wondered how a drummer could also play the keys while pounding the skins. All kinds of crazy configurations flashed through my mind. Anyway, back to the actual band, which captures an off-kilter '80s vibe held solid by a stuttery, alternately abrasive and melodious rock core. After the set, I turned around and noticed Mr. Show's David Cross standing behind me and I asked him what he thought of the band; he confessed he'd only just walked in. Since the rest of the remaining bands on the bill are signed to Sub Pop (Pleasure Forever and Hot Hot Heat), I remarked that now that he, too, is signed to the label it would be against Sub Pop rules to witness any bands on the bill other than those branded with the company iron. (The Sub Pop Mob of yesteryear may have dwindled in numbers, but those indefatigable cheerleaders still manage to swarm the crowd when one of THEIR bands starts up.) Cross got the joke (naturally) and did a funny little routine about how he tried to get a special clause added to his contract allowing him to see non-Sub Pop bands but the "corporate" lawyers made him back down. Then I went up to Chop Suey to take in Plan B's party and get my flirt on with the handsome boys in attendance. Did I mention that I had fallen spectacularly at the Graceland just prior to Cobra High's set, going so far as to land on hands and knees and actually come out of not one but both of my shoes? Hence the excessive flirting and dirty talk: I felt my back begin to act up as soon as I got to the Chop and gobbled a Vicodin that made me extra glib. I'm not naming names, but let's just say that someone present knew how to make a gal smolder even as she lay flat on her back the next day watching Law & Order over and over and over again.
***
Saturday night the Cha Cha Lounge became the Ha Ha Lounge as many of the comedy stars performing at Bumbershoot wandered in, including the aforementioned Cross, Sarah Silverman, and a bunch of other funnies. Alas, the bar was stuffed to the gills and their stay was cut short because there was nowhere to sit. Tune in next week to get more Bumber gossip, because the Labor Day holiday means we go to press right this instant!
