VHS or Beta - The Empty Bottle, Chicago 5/11/12

VHS or Beta is a very original band trying to combine rock with new wave, and strong elements of rave. The multi-dimensional nature of their music calls for variety of ways it can be enjoyed. As the band took the stage, the crowd followed into a groove coma, and basically stayed that way until the very end of the show.

The band opened up with a very psychedelic sounding "Eyes," and followed with very trancy "Watch Out." Both songs off their newest album, "Diamonds and Death," which by the way was heavily promoted this evening, and rightfully so. By the time the band finished "Watch Out," they completely controlled the crowd. And who could resist the massive bass riffs from Mark Palgy? And the emotional vocal delivery from Craig Pfunder, combined with his guitar heroics. The main duo was joined by a tour drummer, and an additional guitar player. The combination of players, and samples the band used, allowed for the perfect reproduction of all the songs performed this evening. And they didn't mind an occasional jam here and there, stretching the songs with additional grooves. A tasty treat indeed!

VHS or Beta got a great response from the crowd. It was a very active audience, dancing, jumping, and generally having a great time. The combination of the crystal clear sound, and great material, guaranteed a great evening, and that's exactly what everyone got. The band was combining the new songs with their older material. "Burn It All Down" off "Bring on the Comets" album went down like a storm. And it was a great, "eat your heart out moment", for everyone who criticized that album in the past. You can't argue with a fan response like that.

VHS or Beta absolutely triumphed in Chicago this evening. Their brand of trance-induced rock was exactly what the crowd needed. The band came on confident and strong. They had fun on stage, and the audience took that energy to another level. VHS or Beta is certainly one of the best up and coming bands, and their live show will make you work your senses overtime, but you'll love every second of it.

Mark Kadzielawa