By Amahli Vivian
Hometown shows tend to be more lively compared to other shows. Scowl, a local hardcore punk band took over the Santa Cruz Catalyst stage on November 30 for their “Annual Dance Party 2024.” I was lucky enough to attend this show for free, thanks to KZSC! Safe to say, Scowl did not disappoint.
I arrived early to see all the supporting bands (Rule of Thumb, Sluttony, Marbled Eye, Cosmic Joke, and Male Tears). The lineup was all over the place, ranging from hardcore punk, alternative rock, post-punk, and disco. The energy in the venue changed to reflect each band’s musical sound. I will admit that the eclectic nature of the lineup seemed to diminish the enthusiastic reactions from the audience.
Scowl’s setlist began with the newest single, “Special.” The audience roared the lyrics to Scowl’s singer, Kat Moss, as she ran across the stage while singing. Towards the back of the crowd, the pit opened up and would end only after the show was over. From the beginning of their set to the end, movement and dancing were never stagnant. Scowl’s heavier songs (“Fuck Around,” “Seeds to Sow,” “How Flowers Grow”) allowed the pit to grow, complete with people karate kicking, windmilling, and two-stepping.
Also exciting, Sammy Ciaramitaro—vocalist of fellow Santa Cruz hardcore band Drain—made a surprise appearance onstage to scream into a mic with his trademark grin glued to his face. Of course, the audience enjoyed his small cameo.
Kat Moss no doubt influenced the in-your-face attitude of her audience. Even during the slower songs, those not dancing were captivated by Moss. During the show I’d jump into the pit only to step out and enjoy Moss’ magnetic stage presence. She screamed into her microphone before jumping off stage and shoving the mic in the faces of those at the barricade. Ending the night with an encore (“Opening Night”) only emboldened the energy of Scowl’s performance. It was a dance party for everyone, from the performers to the audience to the audio engineers in their booth.