Death may be your Santa Claus

Was there once a time when there was basically zip going on around Christmas? My fuzzy memory seems to suggest the answer yes, but that doesn't seem to be the case nowadays. I even had to pick and choose last night, between Christmas shows at Zaphod's and Raw Sugar. I strapped on my cleats and headed for the former since it's been a while since I've seen either The Big Muffs or Hell Bros and Pretty Little Death Machine always rock the house.

Speaking of whom ...


Pretty Little Death Machine at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

Faceoff action!


Pretty Little Death Machine at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

The Big Muffs bring their own brand of heavy, particularly during the last part of the set.


Big Muffs at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

Also, they now have their own line of booty shorts ...


Big Muffs at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

As for Hell Bros, I think they're always great. I often wonder why their shows aren't packed, though last night the horrid weather provided an excuse ... the turnout wasn't too shabby, all things considered.


Hell Bros at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

Stabatronic action!


Hell Bros at Zaphod Beeblebrox, December 21, 2011

And in the spirit of Christmas I also scored some free swag from PLDM and Hell Bros. Thanks, eh!

• Show reminder: Bombed Out are reuniting for food bank benefit at the Legion on Kent St., along with Asile, Motivator, Pregnancy Scares, Shot Nerves and the debut of Rough House. The Elmdale hosts Irene from the Lowlands. The enigmatic Mr "E" performs at the Avant-Garde Bar.