The Evens at Fort Reno last August. (Photo by Joseph Leonardo
The Fort Reno summer concert series was almost canceled this year, but after some back-and-forth between organizer Amanda MacKaye and the National Park Service and U.S. Park Police, the shows will go on. Now that the drama is over (for now, at least), it’s time to focus on what Fort Reno is all about: the bands.
Tonight’s bill: Malatese, The Captivators.
Who are they?
A six-piece ska band comprised of D.C. music scene veterans.
Wait, I thought ska was dead?
Despite what you may think, ska isn’t dead.
What do they sound like?
Though The Captivators play more old school-style second-wave ska (more soul and rocksteady influenced than the third wave punk-influenced ska), they nonetheless put on an electrifying live show. Anyone who was around for D.C.’s ska scene in the mid-’90s to the early aughts will appreciate The Captivators, whose sound harkens back to the scene’s glory years with bands like The Pietasters, The Checkered Cabs, and Eastern Standard Time.
Should I go?
Yes, always go to Fort Reno shows.
Who are they?
A four-piece self-described “trance-punk” band from Harrisonburg, Va.
Trance-punk? I’m old, what does that mean?
It’s a more specific way of saying “art-punk,” or “experimental punk,” or “post-hardcore.” Basically, if you grew up on harDCore, especially in the ’90s when it took a more experimental turn, you’ll probably dig Malatese.
What do they sound like?
Like I said, there’s definitely a strong mid-’90s harDCore influence here (especial Red Medicine-era Fugazi), but Malatese’s no wave-y post-hardcore favors atmosphere and tone more than anything. The vocals drone over rigid, meticulous riffs, while the rhythm section firmly keeps it all from going off the rails.
Should I go?
Yes, always go to Fort Reno shows.
As always, Fort Reno shows start at 7 p.m. and are over by 9:30 p.m. Leave your booze, drugs, glass bottles, and bad attitudes at home. Everything else is fine.
