ORPHAN RECOMMENDS: The Valley Arena

The Valley Arena is Chris Stevens, Michael Nielsen, David South, and Warren Woodward. Straight outta the LBC, they're reminiscent of the shit you listened to when you were like 16, like Vaya era At The Drive In and The Make Up or Engine Down or Drive Like Jehu or something. Really fucking good. Now, to be fair, I do live in Long Beach and I do know these guys, but I'm not the only one singing their praise. I usually hate going to see my friends' bands play, even if they're playing with the likes of Joe Lally (Fugazi) and Dos. But I went to the CD release show for Sesso.Vita (on Anodyne Records) at Alex's Bar in Long Beach a couple months ago, and I was strangely captivated. Their sound is astoundingly tight & polished, and the show was unexpectedly full of energy. I actually found myself unable to concentrate on the projection of The Young Ones they were showing on the wall next to the stage. Dudes are good. Trust me. Or see for yourself, because after another show at Alex's Bar (Feb. 15th), The Valley Arena will set out for SXSW and a follow with a short tour. Here's their itinerary:

In the meantime, check for updates on The Valley Arena myspace page, watch this YouTube video of the song 'Paint it Red', and buy the album Sesso.Vita.