Live Review: White Cowbell Oklahoma/The F*cking Machines, Barrymore's, Ottawa, ON, February 24, 2007

The legendary White Cowbell Oklahoma descended on the nation's capital last night to promote their second disc, titled "Casa Diablo". Lots of Foghat-esque riffage and meaty soloing on stage from the nine-member band (drummer, bassist, keyboardist, lead singer, four guitarists and a cowbell player), and the new material sounds great alongside classics from their debut, "Cincerro Blanco", like "Southern By the Grace of the Lord" and "Put The South In Your Mouth".

Unfortunately, although there were chainsaws, sparks-a-flyin', and gratuitous nudity from the two tattooed strippers that were in tow, we didn't get to see the famed penis guitar solo for some unknown reason. Because of that, for me, the show wasn't as good as the first time I saw them about a year and a half ago, while both Mrs. H and good friend NTC thought the faux lesbianism of the skanks was a little too over the top.

What also might have saved the day would have been a much better opening band. I've seen some real garbage at Barrymore's over the years (the Million Dollar Marxists come immediately to mind) but these nu-metal screamers that inexplicably got the opening gig were just awful. I humbly suggest that the next time the 'Bell comes to town, they ought to get in touch with Lucky Ron (see here, here and here) to properly set the stage rather than hollering hacks who use profanity (see name above) just to shock.

Overall rating: 8/10