That's why it's unique to see a band like Social Distortion, who after 25 years plus in the club trenches, is still taking no prisoners in concert.
This Orange County, Calif.,-based Punk band has endured drug addictions, the death of a founding member and waning popularity, all the while holding true to their original vision: Punk blended with a roots influence. Envision a hybrid sound of The Clash and Johnny Cash, and you're not far away from the inspiration of group founder Mike Ness.
Ness began Social D in 1979 in a Southern California suburb and released their debut, Mommy's Little Monster, in 1983. Like The Ramones, Social D has changed band member lineups multiple times through the years, but their initial sound has stayed much the same.
Social Distortion plays Bogart's at 8 p.m. Wednesday with The Strangers and Middle Class Rut. Tickets are $28.50 at the door.
Get show details and find a link to Gregory Gaston's 2007 CityBeat interview with Jonny "2 Bags" Wickersham, Social D's second guitarist, here.
