Rough boys

Herky jerky punk new-wave is The Born Ruffians' thing. I was very impressed by both their songs and their performance. I'd definitely get an album from these guys - while there are tons of bands working the same territory (particularly these days), they still manage to make you look back without thinking they're aping any particular act. Also they're a lot of fun.

First they gathered around the microphone for a quick singalong.



Ruffian action!



Guitarist and singer Luke Lalonde's voice makes me think of Richard Hell ... not quite sure why.



Bassist and occasional tambourine player Mitch DeRosier.



Drummer Steve Hamelin prepares to deliver a double whammy.



More Ruffian action (and sopme bassplayer feeling by the Adorables' MayLee).









The day after this show, Luke smacked his head open in Montreal, forcing a few show cancellations. No doubt he'll be well enough for when the band hits Britain for a few days in August.