Elliot Randall and the Deadmen

The Viper Room

West Hollywood, CA

March 3, 2011

By Victoria Joyce
(SugarBuzz Hollywood)

Photography by David Arnspiger

SugarBuzz Magazine

Our favorite twangers from the Bay Area graced The Strip for an early showcase at the Viper Room and drew a decent crowd. Eight o’clock is the crack of dawn for most rockers and their kin. But they showed, swayed and stayed for Elliot Randall and the Deadmen.

“It’s so dark in here!” remarked E & D manager, Dianna Arnspiger. This lady worked hard to get some industry people to hear her band from up north. LA is still the center of the universe for the music big wigs. Much has changed for indie musicians but the big breaks still come from the City of the Angels. Bands can bust out if they get a song in a film or TV show or even a video game. Elliot and his Deaddies are right on the brink.

Last years release, “Caffeine and Gasoline” by Randall is getting some nice play all over and is listed #33 with The Americana Music Association. This disc features slow and soulful songs from the honey-voice Elliot, who bears a strong resemblance to Jeff Bridge’s “The Dude.” Backed up with beautiful slide guitar from sideman James DePrato. Bass man, Danilo Lopez and drummer Kyle Caprista bring nice chemistry to the recording and to the live shows. Duded up straight they personify the Country Outlaw rock image in homage to the Man in Black.

The Viper is the club of choice for these showcases because of location and it’s excellent sound. Elliot’s vocals were especially crisp and mixed perfectly with the band. His songs captivate with Dylanesque lyrics and simple phrasing, painting pictures of broken hearts, lost love and journeys to nowhere.

Throughout, Randall blends dark country alt, jangly folk rock and driving Dixie beats and a pleasure to hear in this top notch venue. It’s part of the new genre: Hillbilly Noir. This showcase was all business, not much between-song banter. Done and dusted. Come back soon, y’all.

Elliot Randall abides.

www.elliotrandall.com
www.traumantic.com
SugarBuzz Magazine