Austin's Ugly Americans are funky, bluesy standouts

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by Heather Smith

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I first saw Joerockhead in 1991 and was amazed by the size of their following, whose ranks I joined. Soon after they put out a CD, the band split up.

While Austin mourned the loss of a great funk band, Joerockhead's lead vocalist Bob Schneider began searching for another outlet for his creativity. So the Ugly Americans were born in 1993 when he joined forces with musicians Bruce Hughes, Max Evens, Dave Robinson, Sean McCarthy and Corey Mauser. The band started off much like Joerockhead, performing at the Black Cat and gathering a large group of fans. Like many successful Austin bands, their following soon became so large that they moved to larger clubs.

In 1994 they produced a CD on an independent label out of Colorado, What Are Records? Their debut album, Ugly Americans , has a sound similar to that of Joerockhead except their version of funk is more bluesy and less influenced by rap. The band creates some interesting sounds with a C3 organ in addition to the usual rhythm, lead and bass guitars and drums.

The Ugly Americans' songs have a lot in common with many Austin funk bands since they are concerned with many of the same issues. "Love in the House" discusses the need for love, peace and harmony while "Don't Gimme no Lip" talks about drinking and smoking reefer. These sentiments are found in the songs of other funk bands like Little Sister, Soul Hat and Rhythm Child.

The Ugly Americans differ from other bands, though. They stand out in the crowd of Austin funk bands.

Ugly Americans is lots of fun to listen to because of its upbeat tempo. It's the danceable type of stuff that goes over well at parties. I highly recommend their live performances as well. If you ever want to see a fun, crazy band that will keep you in the mood to dance all night long, the Ugly Americans are the band to see. But if you can't make the trip to see them, buy the Ugly Americans CD.

This item appeared in the Arts & Entertainment section of the April 21, 1995 issue.

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