Submitted by Jesse Wininger, Drummer and Singer: Common Ground
http://www.facebook.com/Ludwigdrummer

When Kevin (Book) had announced on Band Nut earlier about doing some reunion shows of Chet & The Molesters, I checked my band schedule and  finally I had the chance to hear these guys after 20 years. Back in their heyday (1989-93) I was playing 6 nights a week at 3 different Executive Inns or chasing around an 8 year old son.  A little after 10,  the balls to the wall, in your face, full throttle rock & roll that is Chet & the Molesters, kicked off the first set.

By 10:25 if you weren’t there already, it was standing room only, [ club owners take note: hire these guys and make a lot of money w/the bar take], and remained that way while I was there.  Chet is a drummer that I really admire for his chops and solid groove, Kevin is laying down the bass, and is THE rock vocalist around here with the pipes to hit the upper register notes, Nick is one shredding guitarist, replicating Slash, Eddie V/H, Jimmy Page with ease, Jimmi the only band member I’ve never met, is also the other guitarist that kicks ass. Nick and Jimmi compliment each other well, switching between rhythm and lead breaks.  What I like about this band is the is no lag between songs, no one is standing waiting for someone to call up a song, unlike some bands I’ve been in myself.  All I can say now, is that this is my favorite local band, and I hope to catch another show soon.  They have the stage presence, sound, talent to play anywhere, and have to be one of the best bands I’ve seen, and I’ve seen many.  Oh and if it’s too loud, you’re too old…Part song list 1st set, that I recall…Black Dog / Nothin’ but a good time / Interstate love song / Mr. Brownstone / Limelight / Life in the Fast Lane / Ain’t That a Shame and an original song “Gone Fishing”…

The States Theatre in St. Petersburg is rich with history, memories, and fun. Bands from all genres of music have played at this venue. Some of these bands made it, most didn’t, but regardless, some great shows have been played here. It’s marque is a popular landmark in St. Petersburg, Florida, and has been around for many years.

It is Saturday, and the smell of a good show is in the air, and the strong cold wind freezes my nose, keeping me from smelling that smell. Me and my cousin are on our way to meet up with two gorgeous ladies at States Theatre. Due to my excellent time management skills we arrived a little late. We arrived half way through some unknown band whom I didn’t care for much. The guitars drowned out the singer, their sound sounded borrowed, and their stage performance was average.

The group that was up next wasn’t much better. More like a Blink 182 that decided to cry their songs, while the guitars were drowning the singer out. I was starting to get a little worried, had the smell in the air translate wrong due to the numbness of my nose? I calmed myself and reminded myself that it wasn’t over yet, there was still hope.

After the break a band named HydroSonic came on. They started, and my attention was set on only them. Their sound was strong and clear. I could tell I was gonna like them already. After the first song I knew I was in for a treat. The singers voice was very good, clear, powerful, and ryth-matic (yes I made that up). After their set I had found a new band to listen to.

Now all we had left was the headliners, Not Tonight Josephine. Things started getting better. Finally good music that could rock out to, get down with, and be okay with the fact that my ears wont be up to par till later the next day. As the break winded down, and the lights went dim, Not Tonight Josephine’s intro music started to play.

As they came out the crowd started to cheer. The crowd was getting bigger, and it was time to begin. They played a great set. The came on with a powerful sound that got you to get into it. The singer did very well as the rest really did a great job. It was a great experience all around. Their sound was good and soothing to my ears. They did very well, everything went well. They are definitely a band to look out for. Don’t be surprised if this Florida born band is playing venues in your area.

After the show, we went back out in the freezing Florida cold. 45 degree weather is to low for me. My nose was now numb again, as my ears and face. Feet are tired from walking and standing, but the sound in my head was keeping me going. Two new bands to listen to. Can’t wait to see them again later on this month. Orlando here I come!