Ghoul, Bump’n Uglies, Cinecyde, Gazelles, Gore Gore Girls on March 3,2001

What does punk rock, wrestling, exploding frogs and Cheez-Whiz have in common?  The answer to all of these and other important questions were provided last Saturday night at the Magic Stick.  It was, of course, the benefit for Attention Disorder hosted by one of the icons of late-night television in Detroit – the Ghoul.  A bit of explanation for those that may not count the “Attack of the Mushroom People” as one of cinema’s greatest hidden treasures.  The Ghoul hosted this and other unappreciated works of art on his weekly TV show in Detroit through the 70’s and 80’s.  The much needed breaks during these cinematographic performances were provided by the Ghoul as we blew up his nemesis – Froggie, destroyed various gifts that the viewers had sent in and basically set TV back into the cesspool of garbage – where it belonged.  Well, the Ghoul is back on TV in Ohio and his loyal legion of followers packed the Magic Stick to bring him on the airwaves in Detroit.  After all, if millions of people can be fascinated by a bunch of morons playing games in the Australian outback – we deserve seeing Froggie get blown up every week.

I strolled into the packed Magic Stick around after 10:00 pm to see the Bump ‘N Uglies already assaulting the audience’s eardrums with their awesome blend of punk and roll.

Right on cue, the set degenerated into a wrestling free-for-all as that evil wrestling dude preceded the pound the Uglies into the Magic Stick floor.  Just as the situation looked bleakest – the Uglies revived and staged a miraculous comeback with the able assistance of the Ghoul, who smashed a plate of some unknown substance (it looked like stale Cheez Whiz) to knock out the evil wrestler.  This scenario was tough to follow, and after watching Cinecyde play – I paid homage to the Ghoul and headed down Cass Avenue for some more fun and frolic.  My quest was soon answered as I strolled into the Gold Dollar just in time to see the Gazelles start playing.  These guys were jumping all over the stage, which at the Gold Dollar is about the size of the cargo bed on the new Ford Explorer Sport Trac (another gratuitous plug for Ford).  I was impressed by the Gazelles and am hoping to see them again soon.  After the Gazelles were done – one of my favorite bands in Detroit made their way on stage.  The Gore Gore Girls were back, but now they are 2 Gore Gore Girls and one Gore Gore guy – either way they sounded great.  I was waiting to see the Candy Snatchers, but the long day coupled with the inhalation of too much Cheez Whiz, sent me driving home……

For more info:

The Ghoul: http://www.theghoul.com