The Hellacopters live at Celebrity Theater, Las Vegas

Wow! The Hellacopters continue to prove that they are the current world's greatest r'n'r band! This was one of the best shows that I've seen in years, bar none!
The Celebrity Theater is a fairly new establishment in Las Vegas. It started as a drag revue, but that only lasted a few months. Now, it occasionally has r'n'r shows, which it is well suited for. It's a great space, with a good stage and super sound. Definitely my fave place in Vegas to see a band!
The show started with American Heartbreak, now also on the Hellacopter's American label, Liquor and Poker. They're a very fun and very poppy r'n'r band, though they seemed to be a bit frustrated with the lack of enthusiasm from the crowd. It's hard to get people going when you're the opening band, but they did their best and are well worth checking out!
We've seen Nebula before, though it has been a few years, and didn't care for them much at all. Last night, however, they were really cool - less stoner and more late 60's/early 70's heavy rock, including Iggy & Bowie covers! Made me wanna pick up their new CD, but they packed up their merch before the end of the gig.
Then it was the Hellacopters turn! I'll admit that I've been a huge fan since I first heard Super Shitty to the Max. These guys are the closest thing to the reincarnation of the MC5, and that makes them gods in my book! Every time I listen to any of their records I wish that I had been able to do that!
They've gone through numerous personel changes and have cleaned up their act a lot - they're dressing snazzy these days - slacks, boots, vests - except for the bassist, who still looks like they picked him up on a squat somewhere in Sweden! But live, they are still super high-energy and totally over the top! Loud, fast and teetering on the edge the entire time!
The set included songs from (I think) all of their records - not an easy feat these days, as they are so prolific! They could never play all of my faves, but it was a super selection and everyone got plenty of chances to show off what great players they all are and how tight this band is!
Man, I just can't put into words how awesome it was to see these guys in Vegas, where we so seldom get bands of this level. Hopefully, more groups will play at this cool venue and hopefully, more people will show up next time. The turnout was disappointing - no more than 150 people or so - but that made it an intimate experience for those of us who were there. Definitely see these guys any chance that you can!
(March 22, 2006, Celebrity Theater, Las Vegas)