Maximus Reid Porno For Pyros
Porno For Pyros concluded their Horns, Thorns, and Halos farewell tour with a memorable performance in Detroit, Michigan at the iconic Fillmore. Fans were mesmerized by the band’s legendary music, which spanned two albums – their self-titled debut Porno for Pyros in 1993 and the follow-up, Good God’s Urge, in 1996. This event served as a tribute to these timeless albums and their enduring appeal over the years, marking both a reunion and a goodbye in one spectacular show.
The original lineup of Porno for Pyros, featuring Perry Farrell on vocals, Stephen Perkins on drums, Peter DiStefano on guitar, and Martyn LeNoble on bass, initially reunited for the tour. However, Martyn had to step down after a few shows, leading to the inclusion of their dear friend and punk rock icon, Mike Watt. With a rich musical history that includes collaborations with bands like Sonic Youth, Nirvana, and Beastie Boys, Watt brought his unique energy to the stage alongside his Porno for Pyros comrades.
Opening the show was the dynamic UK band Tigercub, this 3 piece is all muscle, built on pure power. Electrifying performers. Formed in 2012, Tigercub has honed their craft over the years, blending melodic pop sensibilities with a hard-hitting groove. Delivering a powerful 10-song set, Tigercub made the audience feel like they were at their very own headline show. The ambiance was electrifying with the lights in full effect, the sound was exceptional, and the vibe was contagious. They tore through their setlist, pausing multiple times to express gratitude to Porno for Pyros for bringing them out and to commend the amazing crowd. Despite the average age of the attendees being in the mid-40s, it was heartwarming to witness everyone embracing this new band from overseas. Contrary to the belief that people over 35 struggle to appreciate new music, the crowd was fully engaged with Tigercub and every song they performed, including hits like “You’re My Dopamine,” “The Perfume of Decay,” and the closing favorite “Stop Beating on my Heart (Like a Bass Drum).” They left the audience captivated and warmed up for the main act.
After Porno for Pyros had been off the touring circuit for a few decades, Detroit finally had the opportunity to revel in the magic that is Porno for Pyros. With a robust 17-song setlist spanning across two albums and a newly released 4-track EP, there was something for everyone to anticipate. Kicking off with the soft yet powerful “Orgasm,” the band set the tone for an electrifying evening. Peter was a ball of energy in his crisp suit, while Stephen, in his classic tank top, kept the beats rolling from his throne. Despite Mike Watt being injured and confined to a chair next to Perry, his presence was undeniable. Alongside Perry Farrell, the band featured Robin Hatch on keys and Perry’s wife, Etty Lau Farrell, on backup vocals. They dove into classics like “Good God Urge,” “Sadness,” “Meija,” and “Porpoise Head,” along with new tracks like “Agua” that seamlessly blended with their established sound.
Banging out a few more with “Wishing Well”, Both “Cursed Female / Male”, as well as Porpoise Head and the radio classic “Pets” lit the place up. The crowd was on fire, even witnessing a daring crowd surf from a brave 40-something. Playing another new song, they came at us with “Little Me” what a great new jam. 13 songs in they kept hitting us with both “Bali Eyes” and “Blood Rag” before the band paid tribute to Wayne Kramer from MC5 with Iggy and the Stooges powerful renditions of “I Got a Right“. Ending the night with both “Bad Shit” and everyone’s fav “Tahitian Moon’’, Porno for Pyros left the audience in awe, culminating the evening with a bow that resonated with nostalgia and contemporary music excellence. It was an unforgettable night for all who were lucky enough to be there. I was one of them.
All photos by Maximus Reid
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