If you do anything at all during your time here in Baltimore, be sure to sample its local music scene. From punk and psychobilly to ska and new wave, many local Baltimore and DC bands offer impressive talent in a variety of genres.
Although the local bands are far too numerous to list thoroughly here, following are some bands that you'll likely see on the bill at nearby venues such as The Ottobar, The Talking Head, The Sidebar or DC's Black Cat.
The Alphabet Bombers
If you've never heard of psychobilly, think "punk plus rockabilly." The Alphabet Bombers stay true to rockabilly roots but deliver it with an edge. These modern-day greasers have a high-energy sound, and a stand-up bass player who can actually stand on his bass while he's playing -- always a crowd-pleaser.
Their name is a nod to Baltimore native John Waters (remember Crybaby?), and they're always playing gigs in the city. Sure, their pompadours are a bit over-the-top, but these guys are talented.
Check out The Alphabet Bombers on Mar. 28 at the Talking Head, located at 203 E. Davis St. in Mt. Vernon (http://www.alphabetbombers.com).
The Goons
Every local punk has seen The Goons play at least a dozen times, whether intentionally or simply because there was nothing else to do. Always on the bill somewhere in the DC area, the band plays Dead Kennedys-inspired punk rock with a hardcore feel.
The Goons will be playing at the Charm City Art Space, 1729 Maryland Ave., on Mar. 19 (http://www.thegoons.com).
The Pietasters
DC ska's claim to fame, The Pietasters are now too famous to play as many local shows as they used to. But this eight-piece ska band, formed in 1990, always packs the house when they play in their hometown.
Characterized by a fast, energetic and catchy ska rhythm, the Pietasters draw a diverse crowd, ranging from frat boys to punks and skins.
The ever-busy Pietasters are stopping in Baltimore this Saturday, Feb. 7, for a show at the Funk Box (10 E. Cross St.). If you miss them this weekend, they're scheduled to play DC's 9:30 Club on Mar. 20 (http://www.thepietasters.com).
Eastern Standard Time
Boasting former members from the Skunks, the Checkered Cabs and the Pietasters, Eastern Standard Time has been described as having a traditional ska feel. Their sound actually incorporates some jazz influences; they like to cover traditional Jamaican ska classics with an added edge.
Be sure to check the band's Web site for future shows (http://www.easternstandardtime.com).
Q and not U
Perhaps one of the most original and genre-bending bands in the area, Q and not U plays an energetic mix of new wave, punk, Britpop and straight-out rock. Though they're often classified as emo, the term doesn't quite suffice. With a huge following and packed shows, this is a band you have to see to believe.
The group is currently busy in the studio, but stay tuned to their Web site for future show dates (http://www.qandnotu.com).
Counterattack
As DC's premier oi! band, Counterattack is usually too busy touring to play local shows. But a list of local bands would be incomplete without mentioning these fellas. An American oi! band with a refreshingly European-inspired sound, Counterattack blends French and Japanese influences, ala The Templars.
The band won't be playing any shows for the next few months, but check out their new CD, "Step Aside," out on Reality Clash Records (http://www.realityclash.com).
Donegal X-press
These guys are always playing at some bar in Baltimore -- but that doesn't mean they're nothing more than a bar band. They may not be as well-known as Baltimore's other Irish band, O'Malley's March, but they play a Guinness-swinging blend of traditional Irish music and American rock that anyone can appreciate.
Catch Donegal X-press at the Cat's Eye Pub, located at 1730 Thames St., this Saturday, Feb. 7 (http://www.dxplive.com).
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