UNNATURAL AXE

March 28, 2008; North Quincy High School

Left to right: Frank Dehler, Tom White Trash, Jack Clark, Richie Parsons

So, the only (Boston) punk band that matters, Unnatural Axe - big hearted do-gooders that they are - played a benefit concert at North Quincy High School to play a benefit concert for Darfur. I was excited for this for weeks in advance. Unnatural Axe playing a high school? The high school student who had organized the concert introduced the band, saying they were a truly legendary "classic rock" band. I winced when I heard that but the Axe (who had raided the school's music room and snagged some high school band outfits that they wore special for the occasion) thought it was funny. Predictably, they kicked ass. All these skinny high school boys wearing t-shirts with old metal bands' names on them were thrashing around and bowing down in front of Tom White Trash, in awe of his guitar playing. One of the kids asked me if I was shooting the show for (get this) the high school paper. Har har hardy har har! Anyhoo, the Axe gained some new fans who, in just a few years, will be old enough to get into some of the clubs with bars where Unnatural Axe play around Boston. This gig was weird, but great nevertheless. It could only have been better if they'd landed a residency at North Quincy High.

The online poster used to promote the show. Special thanks to the gorgeous Heather Harlequin for being the Axe's pinup girl.

The kids need a little action. The kids need a little fun.

Jack in his final appearance with the Axe before he left to join the Village People.

Tom White Trash and his new disciples.