The Music Box is tucked away between Little Italy and Downtown, San Diego, but it draws some of the best bands from all around the world, and even from next-door Arizona.  Tonight was no exception as we waited for the South-African born brothers, known simply by their last name…KONGOS!

The night began with an English (from England…North Wales to be specific) band, The Joy Formidable; a three-piece Alternative Rock band that incorporates electronic back beats with their fierce attitude and high-energy Punk rock beats and rhythms.  I never heard of them, but found that many people at the Music Box had…including one guy who drove down from Orange County just to see them.  The crowd, a real mixture of rockers from every corner of life, was already being amped up for the headliners by this fiery female led Welsh Punk Rockers.

The KONGOS took the stage to a screaming welcome from fans of all ages.  The night took on an explosive feel when the lights hit each brother as they took part in the live demo of their brand new album, Egomaniac.  It was rather fitting that the Egomaniac tour feature one spotlight for each brother as they performed various solos and took parts in singing throughout the eight-song set.  The music varies from world beats to the Native African Kwaito to straight up Hard Rock then Alternative…sometimes even in the same song, but it was fun and energetic, regardless of the tempo.  These guys make use of many types of instruments and styles to entertain like no other…from their breakout hit in the US “Come With Me Now” to this new album, these kids from Paradise Valley, Arizona have developed quite a large fan base for their intriguing lyrics, haunting vocals, and unique beats and rhythms.  I’m a fan.

Review by: Big Jon / BackStage360
bigjon@bigjonentertainment.com