Material: The retro-yet-modern sound has been a consistent trend in music for quite some time, but it still entrances us nonetheless. It’s a trend that spans multiple age groups, and something that Los Angeles-based rock band ROCKET does extremely well in their recorded material. Current single “Hey Baby” is a great example of fusing the best elements of different musical eras into something fun, bold and completely memorable.
Musicianship: When established L.A. band The Pills lost their lead singer, talented front woman Janelle Barreto swooped in to claim the coveted title and ROCKET was born. A little under two years later, ROCKET has attracted attention from the industry and solidified a presence in the city’s competitive music scene. Barreto’s powerful vocal characteristics can be compared to that of Pat Benatar and Joan Jett, while the band as a whole possesses instrumental qualities that recall The Ramones and Stone Temple Pilots.
Performance: ROCKET got to cross “performing at The Troubadour” off their bucket list with a night of rockin’ and rollin’ and energetic theatrics from front woman Barreto. The newly formed yet seasoned quartet certainly showcased their years of musical experience with calculated instrumentals and polished vocals, but they also wanted to make the point that they do what they do for the sake of their love for performing. Completely at home on stage, Barreto emitted an inviting attitude, introducing every song, treating the crowd to a glimpse into what exactly inspired what they were about to hear. The band’s high-powered and animated set clearly intrigued those who were there to see the acts before and after ROCKET, a great indicator of their music’s ability to appeal to young and old.
Summary: ROCKET is a lively blend of powerful female-fronted rock with a stage presence that oozes passion, an absolute treat for those looking to discover amazing local music that embodies the Los Angeles music scene in the most authentic way possible. The band has already supported well-known bands like Bow Wow Wow and Puddle Of Mudd and has garnered airplay on radio stations across the U.S. They’ve also been acknowledged by numerous L.A.-based publications as a rock band to keep our eyes on this year.
The Players: Janelle Barreto, vocals; Eric Wibbelsmann, guitar; Bill Luna, bass; Paul DePatie, drums.
Photo By Mathias Fau
Venue: The Troubadour
City: West Hollywood, CA
Contact: [email protected]
Web: thebandrocket.com
