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Several shows later, I was getting the notion that Cusses, although a band transferred fresh from another state, still hadn’t quite found their pace among the crowd musically in the harsh reality that is often noncommittal Savannah. Savannah, after a long stint of living downtown, tends to come off as a city constantly begging for a good show, a solid band, and when they get it on a regular basis, throwing up a wall of paranoia and judgment. It seems to take the shifting crowds time to become comfortable with additions to the bleakness of the scene, even though they’ve been harping on it for years.

Having a band that willingly played their hearts out weekly was foreign and suspect. We had all gotten so use to the monthly show, that the idea of having something musically available that “didn’t suck” was different. Cusses became an option on the typically dreary evening, setting themselves up in a weirdo catch 22. Too many shows can often push usual avid music enthusiasts out if they know too often what to expect, but it also gives them the opportunity to pick up loyal show goers and refine their live antics.

With that, time has passed, and it seems that Savannah has finally let Cusses in, making them honorary Savannahnians, open arms, well hands, holding up tall-boys or making fists.
At their most recent Hangfire gig, was by far a true testament to the hard work they have put in as a solid act. Skepticism has turned into appreciation and valor, committing me to this feature ten fold. So on to how I have come to understand them critically:

Bypassing electro fever, Cusses pushes out with a raw rock rhythm, reminiscent of yesteryear, made capable by multi-pedal powered guitar and crash-tested drumming that creates a sound not much heard these days by young bands trying to make it in the indie scene.
The hardcore influences are apparent in presentation and strum alike. Drummer Brian Lackey has the ability to brutalize his drums into submission and produce a fearless and well-organized spread, harvesting the bottom-line for each song with strong tenacity.

Bryan Harder, who in my few encounters with, gives off a smooth and quiet presence, but behind that guitar gets sentimental and ramps up a mesh of chords, maximizing his play projection through double amps, providing an air of bass and himself. He creates a facet of noise that shows off his appreciation for strong hard-carrying danceable movements, as Lackey also appreciates in his drumming.

More than head-bobbing, it is a guarantee that more than half of fans will be dancing around, jumping into one another, and holding on for a moment to burst out loud with vocalist Angel Bond.
The motivated and erratic front lady; body shaking, mic and hands air-born, hair flung up done proper, a local example of the high class power thrilled female singers in the current running. Motions swingin’ like Alice Glass and a dressed down workout attire sure to keep you interested much like the hip hop digs of Alexis from Sleigh Bells.

Shining, charismatic and thriving full as they should be, Cusses seems to fit quaintly in the middle of a scene long saturated in a stew of punk rock, rockabilly, dancepop and hip hop Savannah culture.

Although “Custody” and “Whatcha Getting In” are notably their most recognized and promoted tracks, “Blood Everywhere” is certainly worth a listen. Bond’s vocals are  so perfectly synced with Lackey and Harder’s instruments, we get the sense of her accomplishments as an instrument herself and not just a voice for hire. “Blood Everywhere” presents a subtle arrangement of sweet singing, that progresses into a rage of emotion and shows off their conscience choice to pursue diversity in their song writing.

Cusses has kept themselves on rotate, playing a slew of shows over the summer, several in one week, and even a few in one night. No matter the location, the size, the cover,Cusses gives their all, having carved their place in the scene, and stating loudly, they aren’t going anywhere.

As long as kids like to party, Cusses will be playing a show. In the mean time, they are traveling light, with a schedule of regional shows, not willing to slow down in the name of music. If you find yourself by plan or happy accident at a bar or special event for artists, you might just be a the center of a Cusses jamboree.

*Editor’s note: Angel Bond responds: “We actually formed the band last year and in less than 8 months, we received a great response from the Savannah residents; selling out our first show and a steadily growing fan base . We’ve always found Savannah to be so supportive, we are very appreciative of this community!!’  Read more... (948 words, 1 image, estimated 3:48 mins reading time)