RX Bandits

When I saw Rx Bandits were going on tour, I knew they'd have a date set for South Florida. As expected, they returned to the Culture Room as they have in the past. I like the Culture Room because it is small, but very nice and you can get right up front to get the best experience of whatever artists are playing. I was going to pay just to see Rx Bandits. I had never heard of Dredge before this tour. I listened to some of their studio recordings after I bought my ticket and my jaw didn't drop, but I could appreciate their music. After seeing Dredge live though, I like them a lot more. They were really good performers and know how to please the crowd. Their vocalist is a really cool guy and he interacted with the crowd a bit and I could tell he was friendly. I caught a couple guitar picks he tossed down as well as a drumstick from the drummer. Rx Bandits put on a spectacular act as well, as expected. I've seen them before. They are one of the best bands to hear live. You can really get into their music, the heavy bits, and the slow groove parts. Although, I regret to admit they aren't as interactive with the crowd as I would like them to be. Or maybe that's just Matt. He was the only one with room to be up at the front of the stage. I know Choi was hanging outside in front of the building about an hour or so before the show started and he was willing to take pictures with a few people and seemed very friendly. I was right up front and Matt would not touch my hand or the guy next to me (as many performers do at the front of a crowd). But I suppose I can understand why he wouldn't want to. Some crazy person could try and pull him into the crowd. I also had found out that Zechs Marquise were opening for Dredge and Rx Bandits before buying my ticket and I became even more excited for this show. I've known about Zechs Marquise since they started up. They are an instrumental group consisting of Marcel form The Mars Volta, his brother Marfred and two of their childhood friends. I got to meet all of them after the show--they were extremely welcoming and fun to talk with. I got Matthew and Marcos to sign my CD, unfortunately Marcel and his brother disappeared after I came running back from my car with a sharpie.

The concert was magnificent. Rx Bandits was mind bending. The crowd was lively. The only drawbacks about the Rx Bandits/Zechs Marguise/Dredge show was Dredge. I found the lead vocalist's voice unappealing. I wish I ate during their performance.

All three bands blew me away! I went for the opening band, Good Old War, who were unbelievable. I stayed for Dredg although I didn't know them very well, and I was stunned at their incredible performance. I went to the show not liking what I've heard of RX Bandits, but they sounded amazing, and really impressed me with their stage presence. Everyone sounded incredible, and I am so happy that I didn't miss this show!

This show was such a seamless, unforgettable treat. From the opening act, Zechs Marquise (check them out!), to co-headliners RX Bandits and Dredg, this show never slowed down. Each performer played a high-energy set that rocked the house. I drove about 10 hours from Ohio to catch this show and I can honestly say that it was worth every mile. Catch this show while you still can!!!

RX Bandits rocked the house. Dredg on the other hand bored me. If it was a longer set by the Bandits it would be a five star --- Also, if you can catch a show in which Zechs Marquise is playing, its totally worth it. I was up from as close as you can be to the bands - and I still can't hear a few days after \\m/

From the moment they opened with a three man drum ensemble, I knew this was going to be the 5th, yet best RxBandits show ill see so far. The atmosphere has always been collective joy at one of their shows, but on July 22, 2009 it was a whole new level. I felt as if with every new chord strummed on Matt Embree's guitar, that my head was either going implode or my feet were going to lift off the ground. Even though RxBandits no longer have a single brass player, thus limiting the songs they could perform, I was extremely satisfied by the passion and persistence the band endures.

The show was simply amazing. it is unfortunate they they lost their horn section completely and as such did not play any music from albums such as 'Progress' and 'Halfway between here and there' . However, the music they did play was great. You barely even noticed that the horns were missing from some songs. The RX Bandits have a very strong stage presence and put on a great live show. If you like them I highly recommend you go see them in concert.

Rx Bandits are one of the best bands, and hearing them live is like no other. Their energy brings the whole crowd together and seeing them perform is a treat.

Dredg played a good show with some high energy. However, RX Bandits were even better and there energy was on optimum fuel. It was like i was injected with caffeine and couldn't stop. Definitely see them live. You will not regret it.

I expected it to be a good show, but RX Bandits totally exceeded my expectations. From the first song all the way to the last song of the encore it was energetic and exciting. Even if you don't like the RX Bandits that much you will definitely enjoy their live show. Dredg also performed ealier, but their live act seemed a little stale to me at least, but they had some pretty good moments.

i honestly think dredg put on a better show. the rx bandits material is translated much better on record than live, apparently, the sound was very muddy and its a good thing i know the songs otherwise i would have been totally lost. i had a lot of fun, although being a big guy i scared all the lil pit babies away when i got in there..oh well. anyway, both bands rocked the house, and i wanna steal the drummer from the opening act - hes a beast

The show was good, started right on time. Zechs Marquise are tight with their trippy groovathons and noisey solos, it was cool. Then Dredg came on first and blew us away, they were as amazing as always. Supposedly they got heckled by some assholes who need a harpoon to the neck for not appreciating beauty incarnate. I wish Dredg's set had been longer. They were the real reason for going, for everyone even if they didn't know it. Rx Bandits came on and they were good too, but not as good as Dredg. The songs weren't as powerful and as pronounced, and an annoying mosh pit started. I loved how the singer told everyone to stop and just dance and relax. I can't believe that more people don't realize that Dredg stole the show and should be headliners next time.

Opening band was ok, but Dredg brought down the house!!! RX Bandits was pretty good, haven't heard them before. Five stars because of Dredg alone!

This concert was awesome! Even though there were only 3 bands, each played to their fullest and gave you a concert more than your moneys worth. Each band, especially RX Bandits, kept you entertained and excited the entire show, just waiting for more!

openin with all them drumming, it was un like anything ive ever seen before.. from beginning to end the performace was not stop stimulation!

This show has to be in my top 3. The energy at this show was fantastic. Rx Bandits blew me away. The venue was great. I like small places like clubs instead of the HUGE rock band arena venue... I mean it was pretty awesome watching the show 5 feet from the band. The only reason I'm giving this show 4 stars is because of the sound. Some of my friends and I actually talked to Joe Troy (Bass player for RXB) about the sound problems. The sound man worked at the venue and did a poor job. Joe told us that their sound guy flew home for two days for some personal stuff or something. The Bandits were great though. They really know how to put on a good show, and I think that they earned quite a few more fans that night. Go and see the Rx Bandits. This band is still pretty underground. If you have not listened to them, then please check them out and buy a CD to help these guys out. They aren't a band that just cares about money and all the fame, they just want people to listen to their music. All they care about is the music they make. Show was great, check em out, thanks.

Rx BANDITS should come more often. But, you guys need to get your sound together!!!!

Really hard to rate this event. The guys (RX Bandits and especially dredg) played really great, but they had constant issues with the sound. It has nothing to do with the bands, but with the management of Meridian

This was my 20th or so Rx Bandits show and despite their decision to experiment with a new sound sans the trombone and sax, their dynamic is still absolutely mindblowing, and I was not at all disappointed. They still have the same devotion to putting on an incredible show and the same crazy energy that they've always had. I live for Rx Bandits shows, and this one was fantastic. I will say though that waiting through Dredg was torture...talent-wise, lyric-wise, and entertainment-wise, RXB outdid Dredg to the point that it was almost embarrassing. Sorry, Dredg fans, but it's the truth.

Rx Bandits is thee best band and they never disappoint. Good Old War was amazing as always and Dredg was Dredgful.

It was a fantastic line up for a show and It couldn't have been at a cooler place! I live in Phoenix and go to Flagstaff a lot. Tucson I am not as familiar with so it was cool being able to go there and see a show in such a historic venue!! It was where John Dillinger was caugh! I just Public Enemies too lol. The sound was very good! Overall good stuff~

i've seen these guys play about 6 times now, 5 times here in Tucson and 1 out in Phoenix at the Marquee with The Fall Of Troy. they're music puts me in such high spirit i never want it to end. i'm the kind of guy who doesnt need to be drunk or under the influence of anything to appreciate the music these gentlemen play. there is no way in hell i am ever missing a Rx Bandits concert anywhere in Arizona. keep up the amazing good work and peace and love to you Matt, Steve, Chris and Joe.

The whole show was AMAZING! Everyone was moving, everyone was loving it. each band had set the bar for the next set. If you havent seen rx bandits, you should. you cant explain it with words. well, i could probably think of two, energy and "dance" party.

So, the show was amazing. RxBandits always puts on an excellent show and I had forgotten how much I missed seeing them live. The bands prior to RxB left much to be desired and on weeknight it was nearly painfull having to sit through them knowing I had to get up bright and early the next day for work. That was the worst part. RxB even gave a shout out to a dear friend of my brother and his friend (who were at the show too) that had passed away in a motorcycle accident a year to date that night. Such nice, thoughtfull young men. Great show!

Rx Bandits, although I've never heard them before, were awesome! For such a small venue, they really packed the place out. Dredg was a good performance, as well. They had some instrumental problems but nothing too out of the ordinary. I was bummed to not hear a few of their songs that I thought they'd play, but I guess that's because they're doing a two-nighter tonight as well. All in all, I'd say this show was worth the $20.00, but I wouldn't pay much more than that.

Dredg was amazing. Just recently started listening to them cause i knew they were playing with RX Bandits. They were way better than i expected. The whole band was super talented and mixed playing several different instruments including a steel guitar (pleasent surprise). RX Bandits were super intense. They had an amazing opening with a harmonized drum intro which included every member adding their own fills and flair. From the drums they lauched straight into a good four songs with no pause. They hit the ground running and barely stopped for air. I guess cause it was the first show of the tour the energy was expounding limitlessly. Any Rx fans will not be disappointed by any means. I even brought two people who never heard their songs before and they were still in awe. Not to be picky but the band has seemed to ditch the horns. They seem to be changing to a normal 4 man group. Although it was still great, i was sad not to see the horn section. RX always had great horn pieces in there songs. Probably changed with the verge of the new cd and to distance themselves from ska but don't let that sway. They are still amazing and a definite must.

some bands sound great on cd but terrible live. well that was definately not the case with Dredg. they sounded just as good if not better live. all of their songs were awesome. definately best band i've ever seen perform live. anybody who ever gets to see them in concert definately needs to. if you're not a fan of them, go see them and I guarantee you will be.

As usual, this show was absolutely amazing. It was my 4.5 year old's first show and he was just so excited! RX Bandits always put on a show that is worth coming to, they rock all the way around!!! Our family has been big fans for many, many years and we've loved to be a part of their musical evolution from Ska to the amazing band they are now. If you ever have the chance, get out there and see them!!!!

Had a great time at the show. The Drink prices weren't too bad and the band merch was reasonably priced. Dredg was amazing to see live for the first time. I've been a long time fan. Rx Bandits did an amazing job as well. They have really evolved as a band over the last several years. Thumbs up all around. I didnt get to see the support act opener, Good Old War, but alot of people spoke of them in high regards, so I bought their album and its really good.

Dredg was surprisingly really good, and Rx bandits as always brought their a game to the table. The only thing that bugged me was that the set up took so long, but they did have to mic basically like 4 drum sets

Good venue, dredg rocked just like always. Didnt stay for RX bandits.

This was my second time seeing them, but the first show I've seen them headline. They were jaw dropping. They aren't my favorite band or my favorite genre but there is no doubting the fact they know how to rock. They have a skill that goes beyond most bands today. They put on a spectacular show without the need for lights or dancing, they know what the people want and that is awesome music.

Everyone was AMAZING!! I LOVE MATT sooooooooooooooo much!

Why are you even reading this? The RX Bandits put on a show that you must see!

My opinion is biased because RXB is my favorite band, but they were amazing from start to finish

Great show Rx Bandits always do a great job of making us dance and forget about or worries :)

The Dear Hunter and From Indian Lakes were absolutely incredible

RX HAS TO BE ONE OF THE GREATEST RECORDING AND PERFORMING BANDS OF THIS DAY AND AGE. THEY SOUND EQUAL, IF NOT BETTER, THAN ANY STUDIO RECORDING PLAYING IT LIVE. THEY FULLY ENJOY THEMSELVES ON STAGE AND GET ENGULFED IN MAKING BEAUTIFUL HARMONIES AND CRAZY JAMS. THIS IS A MUST SEE. I WAS NOT A FAN OF THE DEER HUNTER, WHO OPENED FOR THEM. THEY SEEMED LIKE A HIPSTER BAND.

Sadly the dear hunter played a very short set. It was only about 10 songs but it was awesome.

I absolutely love from Indian lakes their talent is refreshing and creative keep up the good work! who could forget RX bandits though? their stage presence was powerful and i loved the stage props.

RX Bandits are by far the best band I have ever seen play. That is why I rated this concert 5 stars. However, the venue is not great. It was going to be at Center Stage but at the last minute they changed it to the Loft. It was small, kinda cramped, and didn't sound very good. I actually think I could have run sound better. At times I couldn't hear Steve Choi's guitar and the toms for the drums, I think, weren't even Mic'd at all. So yeah, I would recommend the band, but not The Loft.

Wow! Every band that played was so crunchy! It was possibly the best show I've seen. Small setting and intimate feeling, huge acts. 11/10

The Deer Hunter and the RX Bandits were both amazing. I was so excited to see them both and they did not disappoint. The Deer Hunter hung out after the show and we were able to meet them and get pictures. They were they sweetest most down to earth guys. I look forward to seeing both bands play again in the future.

For all you RXB fans, they played the resignation from start to finish. This show was so crazy. As well, the venue made it even better because we were very close to the stage.

Not RX Bandit's fault, but after a decade of not listening to their music I went with my son who used to love them. After four or five songs - that everyone else in the house seemed to love - we looked at each other and bailed. That much being said, I love the Paradise. The energy was good. The band clearly delivered to their fans. I take full responsibility for just not really knowing what to expect. Was hoping for far more of their "youthful" ska sound.

Superb. Everything I could have asked for. Favorite album.

Start to finish, a great show. Northern Faces were a great blend of groovy rock and energetic tunes. The Bandits were awesome from the time the took the stage. The music was loud, impressive and earnest. You know just from being in the crowd that they love their fans and love playing their instruments (so tight, with enough looseness to get down to). It was a strong 2 hour set and I loved every minute. If you enjoy music, at all, see this band.

Matt Embree is such a musical genious. RX Bandits played basically straight through their set with very minimal downtime. The music was loud and pumping. It was a fun time, even for someone who had minimal knowledge of the group.

Best live show you could hope for. I'll never miss a RXB show, hopefully they tour again

Not the best show I've seen them play (and I've seen them 15 times), but it was still pretty good. It's not the same without the original horn section. Their encore was pretty righteous though

Consistently one of the best live bands I have ever seen. If you haven't had the chance to see RX Bandits live, just do it - you won't be disappointed.

So much energy. Payed every single song from the Resolution. An many songs from all their other CD's. So much fun and you can see how much the band appreciates their fans.

The band was really good, great show. Cool little venue too.

Rx Bandits is one of my favorite bands, and I'm glad that I got to see them again especially for the anniversary tour of my favorite album. Fantastic show!! They still got it!

Awesome show. Rx bandits meld rock, ska, Raggae, progressive and even jazz nuances together so it's great for many diverse music tastes. Very good band to see in concert.

What is there to be said? It was amazing! The band is just great, it was a phenomenal show.

Great show had a great time my seats were awesome great view opening act was also super great...overall great performances!!!

I'm seen the Rx Bandits around 8 times, and this was definitely one of the best sets I've seen them do. The energy was incredible from both the band and the crowd. The first set was straight through The Resignation, while the second set pulled from Battle Begun and Progress. I was very happy.

The Bandits is one of my favorite bands of all time, but I have to say, the A1 sound guy needs to control the feedback. I dont know if it was the venue or a touring sound guy but I was getting blasted in the 8k range and I heard the mic feedback probably 10 times. The worst part about it was this was not fixed AT ALL and it fedback most during the encore which was SO surprising. Other than that the bandits were on point as usual and put on an amazing performance. Just wish they had the production value that was on par with their music. Would also like to hear a hi hat mic on Tsagakis. Need to hear those incredibly slick hi hat patterns he does!!

The venue itself was very nice! The people were in an all around good mood. The actual show though was amazing. I expected nothing less from the RX Bandits. :o) I'm way glad that i had a chance to catch them here.

That was an amazing show, I only wish it wasn't the end.

The show itself was great. So many amazing emotions were felt in the crowd and on the stage. With this show being RxBandits' last, I would never want to miss it. As a concert, taking away the nostalgia and emotions, their performance was amazing, but the sound and mixing at the venue was awful and it did take away from hearing the music the way i would have liked.

Rx Bandits rocked the house for the last time. Amazing night of music but the event staff was horrible. Security were dicks to everyone, even friends and family of the band. Is it wrong that the crowd wanted to linger for a couple minutes after such an epic night? Security not just rushed everyone outside but then away from the venue into the alley ways. Not looking forward to another concert there.

I have seen RX Bandits about 9 times now, and the last 4 I have watched them slip into jam band status. Some people really seem to like this, but the band, at times, just happens to make a smattering of noise with everyone performing a solo at the same time. They ditched their horn section a while ago, but I have to say that the songs with horns in them are songs that are a bit more cohesive (all the way up to ...And the Battle Begun) than what I have heard on Mandala. Much like a Mandala (the actual art expression) they seem to be getting more and more out there every time they come to town. I think it is clear, its time for them to take a break and get this jam band stuff out of their system. That being said, when they played any of their other songs, they nailed it and it was beautiful.

Fantastic final show. They really fed off the energy, and you could tell. Third show I saw on this tour, and they played with more energy then any of the others.

Overall it was a great concert! The venue was pretty cool(first time there - came in from Cleveland) Had a nice open view of stage and the sound was pretty decent. Never heard of the opening bands but they played well. The rx bandits ended the evening on a great note. Played most of their songs from the resignation, and the battle begun, and mandala. As never seeing them live, I was extremely impressed!!

A perfect end to a band that has inspired a lot of people. From the fans to you, we hope you the best in your next musical adventure and we will be there.....listening.

Maps & Atlases was the opening act (or at least one of them) and they were the biggest pleasant surprise of the night. Then RXB came out and rocked it! I didn't know much about them prior to the show, but heard good things so wanted to give them a try. They have a very passionate following and they are superbly talented, if you can get tix to any of the remaining shows on their farewell tour, you would be foolish to pass that up!

From the moment the first note was played, you were captivated by the energy and power that the band always brings to their live shows. The set contained an amazing combination of their last four albums, mainly focusing on the last three. There was not a moment when you felt bored or uninterested. They just kept going after it; quite impressive. To complete the night, Rx Bandits came out not only for an amazing encore but after finishing up, came out for one more just for those fans that just couldn't leave. Thank you for that guys!

I've been a fan of RxB since 2003. So I was definitely sad when I heard this was the farewell tour. However, I love them for playing one last tour for the true fans. This was my 22nd RxB show (and my lovely girlfriend's 2nd RxB show), and was seriously my favorite (the tour with Maps & Atlases and Portugal.the Man is a close second). RxB will always be my favorite live band. They hold a special place in my heart and mind.

RX Bandits will be missed. Best Live Band Ever!!!!

I've never been to a show with more raw energy in the crowd. It was hot as hell in there but it was amazing. The crowd was so powerful singing the word to every song. I never left the pit during a show before but it was just too hot and exhausting to stay in there the whole time. Beat show I've ever been too? Well it's up there.

Amazing doesn't come close to describing this band. They will forever be one of my top 3 bands to date. Their performance on July 12 (my birthday) was a spiritual experience. They captured my soul forever.

great show too bad it was their farewell tour ): .

They are my favorite band and never disappoint live. I'm sad they are taking a break, but happy I got to see them on this tour. The crowd was very excited to see the horns come out, they played songs from as far back as the Progress album.

RX Bandits is my favorite band and after all the years that I've been listening to them I finally got a chance to see them live. It was one of the most amazing concert experiences of my life. The two bands that opened were also really great. I'm so glad that I got a chance to see them on their farewell tour. Not only are they a great band and great musicians, but they are such great guys and really love what they do. There was so much love in that room from them and the fans, it was just unbelievable.

I hope this in not really there farewell tour cause I would really love to see them again.

I have been a die hard fan of RX Bandits for years now! They are the best band live I have ever experienced in my lifetime thus far, and they never fail to leave me completely speechless. They have such a connection with their crowd, and the energy is always way up there. They are definitely one of those bands you can truly say to yourself "They sound better live than on their cd" The jam seshs they have inbetween their sets are always phenomenal as well. Summed up I would call them "Perfectly Organized Chaos"! Like the title says Do youself a favor and see them live, especially since this is their last summer touring together!

A good mixture of great songs. A bit of a lull in the middle, but, overall, a great experience.

Great show. I was in the back on the ground floor and the sound could have been better back there. It was missing extra speakers or better vocals on lead mic. Energy was intense and lots of fun. RXB is always the best time though.

Simply but they are the best band to watch live. They never disappoint and the crowd is always super friendly. Everyone who can should go see there shows. I saw them for the first time 3 years ago and haven't missed a single time they have come to town since.

RX Bandits have just made their way to be my new favorite band. I loved their songs before and saw them once before in 2007, but this show and their new album is absolutely amazing! It literally took me out of my body. Inspiring lyrics, killer sounds, and good vibes all around.

I've been seeing the RX Bandits for the past 9 years. This show was by far the best one they've ever put on. I was really interested to see how they pulled mandala off as it is so different from their other albums. Not being my absolute fave album I must say, after that show I have a new found respect for it. Matt Embry and Steve Choi are gods on guitar. It was mindblowing from the opening till the end. The encore was unbelievable. Such craftsmen when it comes to putting on a show. Might buy tickets to see them again in Boston this week.

Words can not describe how amazing all of the bands were. If you decided to skip this show, you made a terrible mistake. Thank you to the Rx Bandits for their music and love!

One of the best performances ever....these guys need all the support they can get.....go see them, buy their music. support them for real.

Yes, Rx Bandits is my favorite band. But their live performance is one of the reasons why. They are absolutely phenomenal live. I brought a friend who never heard their music before and became an instant fan after seeing them live. Even if this isn't your typical genre of music, its worth it for the performance. Loved it!

Show was great. Their set was somewhat short due to a time limit from the venue which required them to be off stage within an hour and a half of starting, and RX Bandits aren't really the kind of band you want to see in an abbreviated setting. They played Mandala in its entirety which was pretty cool. Very short encore following Mandala which was influenced by the time limit. They didn't play anything pre Resignation which was a huge bummer to my wife who fancies Progress as their best work, and though I like Progress a lot I also enjoy each of the 3 albums that have followed it. I leave a lot of shows thinking "if I could write their set list" and disappointed, but not this one. No matter what they play they are very entertaining live and worth it to go see even for the casual fan. The Social as a venue is about as good as it gets for it's size. I've been to it's equivalent in Tampa, Jacksonville, Gainesville, and Tallahassee and none of those cities have a venue that compares favorably. The smokiness is quite a draw-back if you're there with someone averse to it (such as a friend's pregnant wife) but doesn't bother me terribly past the bother of smelling like an ash tray when I leave.

This is probably the best show I have ever been to. RX Bandits never fails to amazing me with their performances. I had so much fun! The lead singer is the sexiest man alive with the most amazing voice.

The show was awesome, Rx Bandits always put on a good show, I loved the setlist they played, I got to hear some of my favorites mixed into some of the new stuff it was sweet. RXB are nothing short of amazing they are my favorite band of all time. !!!

Went to the show only to see The Builders and The Butchers. They put on a great show and were available to chat after their set. Have seen them twice now, the other Lollapalooza '09, and will be following as their career moves forward.

The two opening bands were great. Both were different in their own styles but great opening. RXB were amazing and everything I hoped it would be. The venue was a little small.

Unfortunately I got to the event late so I missed most of Zech's Marquise's set but what I saw of it was great. I am a big fan of The Mars Volta and saw much of their progressive vibe in Zech's band. I had thought that the Rx Bandits were closing so I was really suprised to see them come out after Zech's Marquise. The crowd went wild and everyone was into them. Rx Bandits were great. Their energy and instrument sounds were on point. The vocalist was spontaneous and electric on stage. The drum opening was fantastic.