Melatonin Girls at The Viper Room – Live Review

Melatonin Girls, The Viper Room, West Hollywood, CA., September 23, 2023

There’s something undeniably magnetic about Melatonin Girls, the punk band that’s been rapidly rising in Los Angeles’ gritty music scene. Their recent performance at the iconic Viper Room in Los Angeles was nothing short of electrifying, showcasing their literal use of electricity to create a gritty sound and unapologetic attitude.

Drawing comparisons to the likes of Julian Casablancas, Melatonin Girls have easily managed to carve out a niche for themselves within the punk rock genre. Their sound is raw and unfiltered, characterized by jarring guitar riffs and smooth vocals with a bouncy rhythm that keeps your head funkily throbbing along. Their frontman, Jacob Mandel, demands your attention from his very first note of the night.

Guitarist Moi Rivera and bassist Gabriel Bordeau are particularly striking. With their piercing gaze and ability to let loose into the music, they command the stage with an intensity that is both captivating and intimidating. Jacob Mandel’s vocal style and filtered layering is reminiscent of Casablancas’ signature drawl, but with a fierce edge that sets him far apart from any style. Ethan Padilla was impressive as he endured the marathon of a set. His ability to bounce between sounds and maintain the band’s sprawling sound was an incredible feat.

Melatonin Girl’s set at The Viper Room was a perfect showcase of their industrial cool aesthetic. The dimly lit, gritty surroundings of the venue complemented their music perfectly, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and electrifying. It’s the kind of place where you can imagine the walls eating you and digesting you to the melody of the energy from every chord and lyric.

One of the standout tracks of the night was Good Graces, a funky punk anthem that had the crowd dancing along. The song’s infectious energy and catchy hooks are a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess, which is both raw and refined in all the right ways.

While Melatonin Girls may not be a household name just yet, their performance at The Viper Room suggests that they’re well on their way to making a significant impact in the scene. With their undeniable talent, unique sound, and captivating stage presence, it’s only a matter of time before they take their place.

(Review and Photos by Chris Vinan – Photo Editing by Panayotis Fillipis)

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