Silent's Dark Post Punk Was A Revelation At The El Rey

LOS ANGELES, CA- Opening for Dead Cross at the El Rey Theatre on August 22nd, 2017 was the band Silent. Created in Baja California, and made up of Andrea Varela on drums, Rodo Ibarra on bass, Alejandro Lara on guitar and Jung Sing on vocals brought some seriously heavy vibes that left those in audience with mouths agape wondering where this band came from.

Signed to Justin Pearson’s Three One G record label, all I can say is that Justin and his label found a keeper. Not only was Silent’s music incredibly engaging, but their stage presence was nothing short of amazing.

First, their music. Dark and brooding, it was layered with a manic, yet controlled, intensity that got the adrenaline coursing through the audience’s veins. I’ve read that they are influenced by Nick Cave, and those post-punk Nick Cave vibes were definitely present. From the searing guitar licks to the gothic tone of Jung Sing’s vocals, the mood that their sonics set in the venue was palpable.

Second, their stage presence. While many band’s rely on their front person to carry the weight of entertaining a crowd, Silent uses almost all of their players to great effect. Not only did Jung Sing lunge and lurch across the entirety of the stage, he also constantly interacted with each of his band mates, giving them shine during their each of their respective solos.

Stage activity was not limited to the stage. Not only did Jung Sing mix it up in the audience, but bassist Rodo Ibarra climbed the stage’s scaffolding to thump out bass-lines while hanging in the air. As an upstage spotlight glared upon him as he played, it was a rock and roll moment that I wish I had more time to shoot. It was pretty damn glorious.

If you are still on the fence about looking into this band, let just say that if you are fans of Nick Cave, Siouxie and the Banshees and Savages, I have a feeling you are totally going to dig this band as well.

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