New Jersey Notes: The Silverhounds and The Koffin Kats, Roxy & Dukes Roadhouse

The Silverhounds returned to Roxy & Dukes in Dunellen, NJ on August 16^th, 2017 with their tight and pounding thrash-a-billy.  This trio of talented players has no weak links: all three members are killer musicians and showmen. 

Frontman Daniel Pena attacks his upright bass with a fury while handling lead vocals.  While Pena is out front, guitarist Derek Malunow stays a little more in the background as he prowls the stage with his various V guitars, letting his fingers do the talking. 

His love of thrash metal like Pantera is what sets The Silverhounds apart from the more typical punk-a-billy.  Same with drummer Joe DeLuca, whose syncopated double-bass drum patterns and precise backbeat are pure thrash.  It’s fun watching The Silverhounds win over everyone in the room and make new fans with each show.

The Silverhounds - Daniel Pena (upright bass, lead vocals), Derek Malunow (guitars, vocals), Joe DeLuca (drums).  

The Silverhounds shared the bill with The Koffin Kats from Detroit, MI. With close to ten albums and a strong national following, The Koffin Kats brought their own fans to Roxy & Dukes, and their blend of power psychobilly/punk-a-billy didn’t disappoint. 

The Koffin Kats tour relentlessly and it’s apparent in their stage show; they were super tight and a lot of fun.  Also a three-piece band, The Koffin Kats are upright bassist/vocalist Vic Victor, guitarist Tommy Koffin and drummer Eric “E Ball” Walls.  Victor used his upright bass to full visual appeal, tossing it around above his head like a ragdoll even while playing it. 

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Tommy Koffin’s guitar work and Eric Walls’ drumming bring the punk: economical, tasteful and full of attitude. 

You can follow The Koffin Kats on Facebook, but according to their website, “the band likes to keep it ‘old school’ and suggests you check out their website at www.koffinkatsrock.com for all official information on news and tours.’

The Koffin Kats - Vic Victor (upright bass, lead vocals), Tommy Koffin (guitars, vocals), Eric Walls (drums, vocals).

Text & photos: Bob Beucler, www.BobBeucler.com

Bob Beucler is a lifelong a musician and fan of rock photography who lives in central New Jersey.  You can see more of his photography at www.BobBeucler.com.

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