Buckcherry: Small-Town Rockin

When people ask what kind of music I like, I just sigh. There is no "one kind" for me. I like them all. I will even admit to liking a few of the bubblegum songs, if I am being put on the spot. My preferences, however, tend to be hard rock and screaming heavy metal. I was recently surprised to learn that Buckcherry was coming to a small city near my very small town, and since concerts are such fun, and I do love the song, "Crazy B'"ch," I really wanted to go.

I will be honest and say that other than the one song, I did not know any of the others that Buckcherry does. However, "Crazy B'"ch" tickled my funny bone, the first time I heard it. My husband had brought it home on his phone. A friend had sent it to him via blue tooth (years ago), and after I heard it, I demanded that he change the ring tone for my phone calls to him from Beyonce's "Naughty Girl" to this fun, new (for us) song. This friend even gave us a cd that he had burned with that song and a few others by other groups that we liked, as well.

Since we were in the middle of a lake vacation, several hours away, we had to hurry to make it home in time to get ready for the concert and arrange child care. We missed the first act. I was sorry to miss it, but life happens. However, we made it in time for Buckcherry.

This concert was held at Neumeier's Rib Room & Beer Garden, at 817 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas. I was unable to purchase a ticket for a table, as I was too late, but I was able to get a standing room ticket at $44. The tickets were advertised for $40 in advance and $50 on the day of the show in the local paper, but I will not quibble over $4. From the time everyone seemed to have, I say it was worth every penny. I am a concert snob, and these guys met my standards, and they did not even have to have fancy staging or pyrotechnics or lighting to do it.

Although at first, I could not see a bit of the stage or the band, being of the shorter variety, the sound quality was excellent. I did not even know the song, but I was definitely getting the vibe from the music, and so was the audience. It may not have been a large audience, but they were there for a party and a great time, and Buckcherry provided. Of course, there is no need to describe the hysteria that ensued when they played "Crazy "B__ch." Really. Who doesn't love that one?

We were finally able to find a small spot upstairs at the railing where I could stand in front of my much taller husband who could easily see over me. I am so impressed. This band did not have pyrotechnics, ever-changing lighting or sound tricks. This was an honest to goodness live show. Not only is Buckcherry a fabulous live band, they truly enjoy performing. They were dancing, jamming and interacting with the audience, and everything you want to have in a large venue concert while we were just a small audience in a bar. I did not feel for one moment that they gave one bit less for this group than they would give for a stadium full of people.

I believe I have mentioned that the music was fantastic. I have come away with some new favorite songs. "It's a Party" is going through my head a lot, lately. Unfortunately, every time my husband gets in trouble with me, though, I think he's going to play "Sorry," and it will work. The encore of the Allman Brothers' "Midnight Rider" was one of the best I've heard. I love a band that so thoroughly enjoys what they do and does it so well. I would very much recommend their shows to anyone, and I would gladly see them again, myself.

On another note, the Rib Room's staff was friendly and helpful. The bar was clean, and order was well maintained. I am old enough to appreciate that. (I'm dating myself, here, I think). When I stopped there to see about tickets before the show, they politely let me know where to get them. I went down the road to Papa's Pub and Pizzeria, on 508 Garrison Avenue, Fort Smith, Arkansas. Of course, I have been there, before, and I have always had good experiences and pizza, there!

Back to the main point: Buckcherry. It was not an expensive ticket, and they were easy to acquire. Either a person could purchase online or make the trip to Papa's, so where is the loss, there? It was a small venue, but a nice one with both food and alcohol available, so attendees had to be at least 21 years of age. The audience was not huge, but it was pretty packed, and that bunch was there to rock. They loved the band and the show. Buckcherry is a hell of a group of musicians. There is a lot of talent in that group. I personally give the experience a 5 out of 5 on my scale of concerts, in all areas. I sincerely hope they come back. Thank you, Buckcherry for a terrific night.

Buckcherry's Website

**Author's note: I have since taken the time to learn a lot more about the band, the individual members and the music, but I wanted to leave this review this way, since this was my initial reaction and impression. Thanks.