Grates To Tear Up Schubas

The whirlwind that is The Grates hails from Australia and threatens to take down everything in its path. Singer Patience Hodgson dominates the proceedings with voice that flips from sweet trill to all encompassing roar into playground chant without missing a beat. Through it all she rides a pleasant melodicism that contrasts brightly with the churning three-chord punk guitars carrying most of the songs forward.

The songs surf on waves of childish abandon and connect on a very basic simple level. But like most things that plug directly into the pleasure center there's more going on than is immediately apparent. Yes, most of the songs follow simple punk structures, but then a plinking piano or brightly plucked string suddenly pops through an abbreviated silence indicating the great care that goes into the actual compositions. And, like all true professionals, The Grates make it all look effortless.

Their live shows have a reputation for being raucous, lively affairs filled with pandemonium and glee, so we recommend catching them at Schubas tomorrow night. Show up, let the boisterous teenager in you out, and let loose with The Grates.

MP3: The Grates "Burn Bridges"

Saturday, November 7, Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, 10:30pm, $10, 21+