REVIEW: The Mothership – Rock, Punk, and Music for All
Cam Girl, The Mookies, Comfort Object, & Thunder Station Dirtbag Coalition
When it comes to live music, a few things typically come to mind:
How hard can it be for a band or musician to book a gig?
How hard is it for musicians to book gigs outside of bars and restaurants that serve alcohol?
Look no further than Mothership 571, a new space that has opened in Buffalo. Its goal is to serve and connect the community through music and art in an all-inclusive and completely alcohol-free space. At the Mothership, you can show up for the music, stay for the vibes, and surround yourself with good people and incredible artists.
May 22nd was no exception. The Mothership brought in touring band Cam Girl, a Queer-Trans Trash Rock band from North Carolina, with special guests The Mookies, Comfort Object, and Thunder Station Dirtbag Coalition.
The energy was bubbling before the show. People were mingling, laughing, and enjoying the comfort of others in a low-pressure environment. As the lights dimmed and Thunder Station Dirtbag Coalition took the stage, their opening notes left a lasting impression and set the tone immediately. The effect it has on the audience and the way they pull people in to start the show are amazing.
Near the top of their set list, one of the members took to the mic and said, “Despite the government’s attempts, we’re still here…” and the sentiment stood out to me as I listened to the all Trans Female Psychedelic-Space Rock band boom through the speakers. Their lyrics are refreshing, filled with raw emotion and passion that the group leaves on the stage during every song. It draws you in and makes you realize they have something important to say. And they put everything they have into saying it.
The incredible solo guitar playing and the fusion of sleaze, rock, and grunge come together well for the band. There is inexplicable beauty in the chaos, and I realized it was due to how each member of the band was their authentic self. And nothing is more powerful than that.
As Comfort Object took the stage, one of the two representing members said it best, “We’re just going to Jam.” Which is exactly what they did. Their vocalist/guitarist and drummer represented the group that consists of five members, the rest of whom were unable to make it. With the way the duo connected and communicated on the stage, you would not have noticed.
They might have been only a portion of the band, but they were not lacking in power. They were practically jumping with excitement, lighting up as they made their music and sang their hearts out. The Emo/Screamo Trans Liberation Band has a sound that is made to get you moving, and their original songs are filled with passion and love for all. The songs are catchy, with guitar riffs that will have you wanting more. I’m sure if you catch the band together, you are in for one incredible show.
Up next were The Mookies, a change-up in vibe and music as the jangle-pop/surf-punk band took the stage. As they hit their first chord, you notice their communication, attention to every detail, and care of every note. You watch their chemistry as a group blossom in real time.
From covers to originals, the band masters that feeling of nostalgia that everyone knows and loves. The feeling of blasting music in the warm and beautiful weather, maybe in the car, maybe with the windows open, and definitely with a breeze and a sense of calm and easy-going.
The band has that vibe down, too, as they bounce around, allowing each musician and vocalist time in the spotlight for solos or riffs you don’t want to miss. It felt like watching a group of close friends jamming in a small garage or basement party, except they were playing in an actual venue with acoustics that captured their sound beautifully.
Their music leaves you yearning, but not in a bittersweet way. It leaves you yearning for more. Song after song, they keep you on your toes, dancing along and fully present for the ride. They make each cover song their own, and each original speaks volumes with its lyrics and melodies. You’ll want to catch their music and live performances because nothing beats the sounds their saxophonist, guitarists, and drummer make.
But the night is certainly not over. Make way, world; the Bubble Gum Revolution is Here and Queer.
As the headlining act captures everyone’s attention, their dazzling lightshow starts, and the music begins. If you have the chance to see them live, it’s a show you won’t want to miss. Their music is electrifying, from the guitar solos that rock your world to the most solid foundation created by the drummer. The singing is also unmatched, and when they start to harmonize, it’s a sound like no other.
Each member is a powerhouse in their own right, and there is no question about it. They all have a captivating energy about them that is mesmerizing. Each of them draws you in, and their crowd work is some of the best, exactly what you would hope for with this type of show and environment. They are right there with you through every song and every step of the way, and you can tell there is no place they would rather be.
If Cam Girl is around and touring in your local area, follow the flashing signs and neon lights, grab some earplugs from their merch table, and get ready to be blown away. If you’re looking for more shows like this, or if any of this music is up your alley, check out mothership571.com for their calendar and upcoming events, and go check out all the bands on their socials!
