Monster Zero at the Double Down, Thursday Aug 30, 2018

Atomic Video Jukebox hosted another fun Thursday night at the Double Down for National Frankenstein Day (who knew?) by presenting the original Frankenstein movie along with the return of the costumed cohorts that make up Las Vegas' Monster Zero - back from a multi-year hiatus. Back in our LA days as members of the secret society known as the Black Widows, we played together with MZ and enjoyed their antics so looked forward to their return.

As that afore-mentioned gig was nigh on 20 years or so ago, I had actually forgotten quite what MZ sounded like, but remembered that we dug their disguised trip. I was thinking that they were surf-instrumental-ish, but that isn't quite right - they are actually far more 70's rock - in the best way - with monstrous lyrics. Hard edged guitars that performed harmony-driven twin leads, cool keyboards and a hot rhythm section (most likely literally, as they were completely covered up in their elaborate costumes) with plenty of appropriate cowbell in catchy songs.  Top-notch musicians all around although not much between-song banter, but good attitude overall and an abundance of fun - and the crowd (packed, especially for a Thursday night) loved 'em. An Oingo Boingo cover made an appearance, as did a keytar!

They said that they were planning on playing again regularly, so dig 'em when they return - one of the better bands in town!

Thank you to Haanson, Atomic Video Jukebox and the Double Down for a terrific Thursday!