I’m a rivethead at heart. Not your stereotypical industrialist as I lack piercings, the multiple pairs of pvc and leather clothing and a grand appreciation for the work of VnV Nation. I did however cut my teeth as a wee lad writing for industrial magazines, I did cry when I didn’t make it to see Skinny Puppy on their last tour and I can muster a solid dose of misanthropy when need be. I guess I’m a rusty rivethead?

When I heard Chemlab was touring again, I had to get a little giddy. I came to the work of Jared Louche and his cold wave electro rockers a touch late, but if anyone has flown the flag over the years for no bullshit rock and roll for synth-lovers, it’s been Chemlab. A spring tour with fellow vets 16Volt and new gen kiddies Left Spine Down looks to be a haven for us old industrial fans and I can only hope the boys will be pull out the stops yet again.

The thing I love about Jared and Chemlab is that you never know what you’re gonna get with them. Eyeliner wearing boa destroying synth abusers, there’s just something fun about them.  I think it’s that Jared doesn’t give a damn. so many cats that fall under the Industrial banner take themselves way too seriously. We’re going to be very doomy and wear black..oooh…ohhh. Chemlab just seems to want to go out and in the glorious tradition of the MC5, kick out the jams mother…..

I’m also hoping for some between song banter. A notorious writer and spoken word artist for many years, Jared’s got a way with the scathing and the depraved, so I’m likely going to alternate between busting a gut and busting a move.

I’m sure 16 Volt will put on a god show, they’ve been plowing the same vein of electro rock since I was 17. L.S.D…well, the less said the better but the kids will make a fine warmup for the madness to come. Part of me wants to show up in dayglow neon just to piss the goths off but that’s just not as fun as it was. To the dance  floor with me, if armegedon is on the way, I’d prefer to go out dancing.