Old Shoe Records Night with Far From Finished, Longway, The Sparring, and the Will Kills

(December 5, 2009 at Slidebar in Fullerton)

I’ve said it before and I will say it again. Old Shoe Records has some great nights at the Sidebar going on. This one featured a majority of the Old Shoe roster playing for fans, which was more like a party than a show. It included new signee Far From Finished. The Rev and I were excited for this show because we have heard nothing but good things about FFF. The night opened with the Sparring playing a brand of old school hardcore punk rock (i.e. lots of screaming) that I haven’t heard in quite a while. Very enjoyable. They are on the Warped Tour this year so be sure to check them out if they come near you. Next up were SLC’s own the Will Kills. They were a different sort of punk rock than the Sparring with the occasional ska groove thrown in for good measure. A good band for sure, but I definitely liked the ska influenced numbers more than the straight punk numbers. Next up were Longway. I can always count on these boys for putting on a good show and tonight with a short 15 or 20 minute set was no different. They started out with “Sharp Dressed Man” by ZZ Top dedicated to Old Shoe Records owner Josh and continued through their set of OC style punk rock ending with “Rebel Yell”. Far too short of a set, but fantastic nevertheless and never a letdown. Next up were Far From Finished. Goddamn how is this band not huge. They play a very appealing sort of punk rock that I can’t see why is not huge on the radio. Played a great set of tunes that made me go out and get the albums on iTunes. A very good band that lived up to my expectations. Talked to the singer afterwards and they seem like a great group of guys. Look for an interview with them here soon!