WAVVES, KING TUFF and JACUZZI BOYS at the Opera House, Sunday, September 29. Rating: NNN
Sunday’s garage-themed throwdown began when a smattering of young hipsters showed up early for the remarkably tight Jacuzzi Boys. Held afloat by drummer Diego Monasterios’s precise timing, the Miami threesome channelled their inner -Stooges for a punchy set.
Looking like left-for-dead burnouts in stars-and-stripes headbands and studded vests, King Tuff and his band carried a large banner onstage bearing his name and likeness. And judging by the size of his smile, he’d gladly welcome all his followers inside his chariot (presumably a 78 Camaro). Touring the near sublime album Was Dead, Tuff displayed a genuine lack of ego throughout his thoroughly enjoyable scuzz-pop set, complete with pitch-perfect guitar solos.
Frontman Nathan Williams was polished throughout Wavves’ streamlined, efficient set. Even fans’ constant theatrical attempts at stage-diving didn’t faze him. Sipping wine, he sounded like a paternal figure to his young fans, a stark contrast to past tours. “If I see one more person try to take a picture onstage, I’m gonna throw that camera into the back of this place,” he said, mock-scoldingly. Kids these days.
