Semi Precious Weapons / Cobra Lounge

AUGUST 30, 2008 - New York City's Semi Precious Weapons graced the stage at Cobra Lounge this past weekend, following blah-rockers Black Actress and Last Vegas. As is typical of SPW shows, the opening slots provided the standard desperation - yet another couple of local bands trying to cling to the assumed importance of being on a bill with these next-big-thing garage glam darlings.

Semi Precious Weapons has progressed exponentially since I first remember seeing them in Chicago (Summer of '06, Martyrs'). While the band put on an impressive display of glitter and anthematic rock for that gig, the audience capped out at fifteen people, staff included. It's hard to play off the energy in the room when the waitress is the only one dancing. (Plus, it's kind of awkward for the waitress.)

Back to last Saturday night: Justin "Precious" Tranter led the foursome in heels most women couldn't handle and an attitude most queens would drop their panties for. Handstands, dry humping, and begging the audience to show him their tits were all par for the course. Tranter's performances always show that he's got balls - and so do his ballet poses in those almost-opaque pantyhose he plays off as clothing.

Bassist Cole Whittle thrashed around on stage like ADHD is a fashion trend, and while this set in particular was not wholly exemplary of his capabilities, he played off being a tad drunk by being more than a tad over the top. His tone is impeccable, especially when he climbs the neck, but his stage antics are what make him an unbelievable performer.

Aaron Lee Tasjan and Dan Crean round out the set on guitar and drums, respectively. Crean's little-girl titties gave away his age as he bounced on his throne, while youth shines through every aspect of Tasjan, even occasionally in his playing. Regardless of their age, both are talented enough to make musicians 20 years their senior start twitching about losing their cred.

While this wasn't the Weapons' best show in Chicago to date, anthems like their self-titled Semi Precious Weapons, Magnetic Baby, and Rock and Roll Never Looked So Beautiful got the crowd energized - dancing, jumping, and flashing titties as per Tranter's frequent requests. There is only more promise to come while this band solidifies its reputation as the aforementioned next-big-thing.

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