Porcupine; photo Moses Choi

Being a product of the 70s, Hüsker Du’s Zen arcade was a part of the soundtrack from my youth as a teen. So, a chance to see Porcupine with Greg Norton on bass was something I couldn’t pass up on… oh and they were opening up for the MC50.

Greg Norton, Porcupine; photo Moses Choi

Without much fanfare as the crowd shuffled in, Casey Virock (guitar/vocals), Ian Prince (drums) and Mr. Greg Norton plugged in and rocked the hell out. Now I’m not going to lie, I’ve never heard Porcupine before and I had no idea what to really expect other than Norton’s thundering bass.

Casey Virock, Porcupine; photo Moses Choi

Sure enough the goods were delivered. Virock’s guitar melodies and vocal layers gave the perfect mix for Norton’s gritty lead bass style while still being modest to the punk roots. I couldn’t even spot a set list. They were seasoned veterans winning me over with each song.

Norton is still limber, lightning calloused fingers, sweating bullets and still looking badass with his handlebar mustache. By the time the set was over the floor was filled with eager fans for the MC50, showing respect to Porcupine for a standout performance.

MC50; photo Moses Choi

MC50, not to be outdone, came out blazing and full of energy. Holy shit, I felt like a kid at a circus. Watching them deliver song after song with everything they have is like a Blues Brothers show on acid. This is what rock-n-roll is about.