To summarize: This is badass.
DC-based power trio Ex Hex shook up their local scene with an awesome 2014 debut, Rips., loaded with all the post-punk/garage-rock rocket fuel your ears could feast upon. However, after some sonic experimenting and fine-tuning in the studio, it was time to unleash a little something unabashedly rocked out, even with a few nods to ’80s hair metal and then some. All those Rips, riffs and garage/post-punk power chords that drew you to Ex Hex in the beginning are as solid as ever on their second LP, It’s Real, but with added swagger, shred and maybe even a few CBGB-era vibes. Like, imagine Sleater Kinney and Quiet Riot building jams at their shared rehearsal space with Blondie.
Ex Hex follows their recent Studio 1A performance with a show tonight at Barracuda, 611 E 7th St. LA psych-punk band FEELS and Austin garage-pop rockers Mean Jolene share the bill. Doors at 8 p.m. Very recommended.
-Photo courtesy of the artist.