Hot Cross: Hear this band

Rich Mackin, Hot Cross, The Fiction, Io, Mike Bolam

Saturday night

Mr. Roboto Project,… Rich Mackin, Hot Cross, The Fiction, Io, Mike Bolam

Saturday night

Mr. Roboto Project, $5

www.therobotoproject.org

Politics and spastic indie rock: Could you ask for anything more this holiday weekend? While most will spend tons of money on their lovers this weekend, this is one of the many shows taking place on the tragically beautiful “I Love You” day that we all know about. It features one of the most insanely incredible bands in all of the screamo scene, some local talent, and even some fun spoken word mayhem all in one tight little package.

In addition to Rich Mackin, and Mike Bolam from Pittsburgh’s own Crucial Unit – one of the bands I’d like to see at least once in my lifetime – Hot Cross, will play.

When Hot Cross formed, they featured ex-members of Saetia, a screamo band that dissolved a while ago. Upon this reformation, all the old intensity of Saetia was rekindled, and the group signed with Gravity Records. Combining intricate melodies with throaty, screamy vocals, they will change time signatures on you, and obviously promote plenty of singing along. Don’t let the intensity fool you; they can turn the tide with some soft breakdowns and very well-done singing parts that will leave you in awe.

As if that wasn’t enough, one of the most talented local bands in the Pittsburgh indie scene, Io, will also play this Saturday. These guys will overpower you with full stacks and mathy, which is music with cascading interchangeable time signatures, an indie rock that features both screaming and singing. The four-piece band has been playing shows for years and increasing in popularity one intense show after another. If you haven’t seen these fellows yet, you may need to make it a point to see them this weekend.

The Fiction is supposedly a combination of Fugazi and the Swing Kids, two bands of which I’m a fan. So obviously, I have high expectations for this high energy show. If need be, find directions to Roboto via www.therobotoproject.org, and get your behinds over there for some well deserved indie lovin’ this holiday weekend.