Los Angeles Rocker Queen Kwong Play Subterranean Friday
By Chicagoist in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 2, 2015 8:45PM
Carré Callaway, better known as Queen Kwong, was discovered by Trent Reznor in New Orleans. The world began to discover the band when they opened for Nine Inch Nails in 2005. Impressive beginning, no? And not to name drop but Callaway currently tours with Limp Bizkit’s Wes Borland on guitar (the two are currently dating), Fred Sablan on bass, who previously toured as a member of Marilyn Manson’s crew and AWOLNATION’s Hayden Scott on drums.
Make no mistake—as fresh-faced and freckled as Callaway may appear, she is hewn from true rock. There is a dichotomy that lives inside Callaway; speaking to her in person, she is fun, sweet and engaging, but once she takes the stage, she is tough, raw and unapologetic. The innocence you initially encounter disappears after the first note. On stage she is equal parts intimidating and mesmerizing. Comparisons have been drawn between Queen Kwong and The Stooges, Hole and even Queens of the Stone Age, and it’s easy to see why. Callaway has the ability to hit tender purring notes then just as quickly burst into a howl that is surprising from such a small girl.
Fresh off the release of their punk single “Cold Daggers,” Queen Kwong will be releasing a new album later this summer. When the band plays Subterranean on Friday, expect to see a beautiful, uninhibited performer at the front of the stage, backed by some of the best musicians currently in the business. Callaway doesn’t just take the stage, she attacks it full force.
Queen Kwong plays Friday, July 3, at Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave., 8 p.m., $8, 17+
By: Lucy Rendler Kaplan