Canadian heavy metal rockers Anvil played to an enthusiastic and packed house at the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip. Getting to this point in their 30 year career can be summed up by two simple words… determination and perseverance.
For anyone who hasn’t seen the brilliantly crafted and amazingly touching 2009 documentary Anvil, please put it at the top of your Netflix queue or go out tonight and rent it. Without rehashing everything from the movie, one must still know how Anvil arrived at this moment in time to appreciate the electricity in the air Friday night.
30 years after one hit and what most industry people thought would be the next big metal band, Anvil faded into obscurity. Core members Steve “Lips” Kudlow and Robb Reiner remained committed, and after the success and public reach of Sacha Gervasi’s documentary brought Anvil’s music to a mass audience, they looked rejuvenated and refreshed. On Friday night, “Lips” referred to the movie only once, saying to the screaming Los Angeles crowd “You guys aren’t my fans… You are my friends… For God’s sake you all have met my mother!” It was this sincerity and gratitude that emanated from the stage for the band’s entire 90 minute set.
Anvil cruised through familiar territory for those fans who know their music. Tracks “Forged In Fire,” “This Is Thirteen,” and “Mothra” were well received, as were the rocking “White Rhino” and “Thumb Hang.” It wasn’t until catchy Anvil anthem “Metal On Metal” rang out though, that the crowd of what seemed to be middle aged men and women decided to actually attempt to crowd surf. It was an interesting sight, considering the majority of people weren’t interested in the idea, and most attempting the feat just hit the floor after a few seconds.
When it was all said and done, Anvil absolutely rocked. They showed what 30 years of honing their craft can do, whether anyone was listening or not.
