On 30 November, The Black Cat in Washington, DC hosted Smash Records‘ 40th Anniversary with a killer show featuring bands from Des Demonas, The Goons, Lorelei, and NØ Man. Located in the Capital City’s Adams Morgan neighborhood, Smash Records opened its doors in 1984 selling records, clothing and everything in between. It’s still the place to go for punk to alternative music. The eclectic showcase kept the night entertaining.
Des Demonas, DC punk band with influences of post punk, funk, blues, Afro-beat, rock, and noise, celebrated the release of their newest album, Apocalyptic Boom! Boom! that was released on 29 November 2024. Des Demonas is comprised of Jacky “Cougar” Abok (vox/percussions), Mark Cisneros (guitar), Paul Vivari (organ/bass) and Matt Gatwood (drums). Be sure to find them here for future shows.
The Goons is a DC hardcore punk band that have played together since the 80’s and played a killer set which generated a circle pit in the middle of The Black Cat. It was great to see the band and the audience having a great time.
If you have a chance to see them, find them here.
Lorelei is a DC indie post-rock trio band with Matt Dingee (guitar), Stephen Gardner (bass), and Davis White (drums). The band performed a blend of post rock and noise rock that was a great in respite after NØ Man show. Follow them here.
NØ Man is a four-piece DC female frontend hardcore punk band with a hint of screamo. The band started the night STRONG! The singer, Maha Shami has an incredible voice that could be heard throughout the venue, band members also included Matt Michel (guitar/vox), Pat Broderick (drums) and Kevin Lamiell (Bass).
The band has raised over $3K since September to help support charities like Gaza Soup Kitchen to help combat famine while providing healthcare and education in Palestine. Find out more about the charity here.
