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Poptone: A Tone Full of Pop.
The Mohawk, Austin, 12.7.17

Originally named Bauhaus, then Tones on Tail, then Love and Rockets, Poptone is the latest incarnation of the iconic English goth rock outfit, sans key members Peter Murphy (vocals) and David J (bass). Despite playing the outdoor stage of The Mohawk in below freezing temperatures with sleet and snow, the trio and crowd of about 350 or so never let up. The collective powered through a commanding and nostalgic set that relied heavily on Tones on Tail material, songs that many were listening to for the first time live in decades and others listening to for the first time ever, turning black clad attendees into excited and frenzied bats. Drummer Kevin Haskins and guitarist/vocalist Daniel Ash delivered strong and solid performances akin to their younger selves while bassist Diva Dompé (Haskins’s daughter) impeccably executed thick and groovy basslines very much in tune with David J’s style, bringing exciting life to her father’s beat heavy drumming. Never missing a beat, the audience was treated to a 90 minute set which included the only Bauhaus song of the evening during the encore, “Slice of Life.” In short, they looked good, they sounded good, and they had the audience eating out of their hands. They did not disappoint one bit. With so much incredible energy, many are undoubtedly left with the desire to see a proper Bauhaus reunion, a long time fantasy for die-hard fans of the influential group.

Poptone will release a live album in the coming year as their debut recording and continue touring. I strongly advise not losing out. 
photo: @mr_peefer

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