Night Marchers @ Captain's Rest, 18 Oct

John “Speedo” Reis' golden touch doesn't appear to have deserted him yet. Along with fellow ex-Hot Snakes Gar Wood and Jason Kournikos, he again sidesteps trends and looks to ascend the lofty peaks of cult esteem.
Night Marchers is more in keeping with the enthusiastic swagger of Speedo's RFTC days. The absence of long-term collaborator Rick Froberg means a little of the cynical edginess has gone: the hardcore elements replaced with occasional surf riffs and rockabilly twang more suited to Reis' genial manner. The raw energy and ear for a brilliant chord change remain however. The inescapably charming frontman whips the crowd up at every opportunity. Wood also grins throughout, clearly delighted to be back in the saddle. Playful audience-bating is well judged and, as sweat runs freely from Speedo's chin, one belting song after another helps this capacity audience forget that they are slowly baking to death.[Chris Cusack]