The Soviettes: Then and now

Add another band to the list of defunct Twin Cities groups getting back together for a brief reunion: Beloved pop-punkers The Soviettes are returning for a pair of performances sure to bring back memories of sweaty mosh pits and audience sing-alongs. Ostensibly a one-time deal, the reunion is actually a whirlwind of shows: In addition to tonight's CD-release show for the new compilation Rarities at the Turf Club, the band played an all-ages set down the street at Eclipse Records last night. Following that show, the Hexagon Bar hosted an after-party featuring one of Soviettes guitarist Annie Holoien’s other bands, The God Damn Doo Wop Band, which was celebrating the release of a 7-inch. Quite a busy schedule for a band that broke up in 2006.

The A.V. Club asked Holoien to enlighten us about the lineups at the upcoming shows: “Funny thing about that ... they're our bands. As in, each of us has a less old band that we play in. And the less old bands are gonna open for the older old band. Rather than sit down to choose two lineups, we're just gonna do the same thing two nights in a row. With our own bands. How's that for lazy?” Indeed, all three opening bands are current projects of the ex-Soviettes (but please refrain from jokes about how they’re playing with themselves). Many of the elements that endeared fans initially remain in these new incarnations: the multiple singers, the simple structures with an ear for melody, the vibrant energy, and most of all, the pure fun that comes with playing in a punk band. Before heading out to one of the reunion shows, find out what you're in for.

The Soviettes
By the time Billie Joe Armstrong’s Adeline Records released their 2003 debut, LP, The Soviettes had already established their role in town, winding up crowds with big riffs, fast beats, and sheer energy. But just a few years, two more albums, and one Fat Wreck Chords deal later, the band was done. Now the four-piece is reuniting in honor of the release of Rarities, a collection of B-sides, unreleased material, and alternate versions of songs culled over the course of its career. As expected, the album’s 18 tracks are quick bursts of spirited, guitar-driven rock, punctuated by "woos" and "heys." If you’re interested in a raw, unpolished take on the band’s bouncy rock anthems—and you should be—Rarities is an excellent last hurrah.

Awesome Snakes
Holoien and drummer Danny Henry formed Awesome Snakes as a side project in 2004 as a way to fully express their love for both snakes and things that are awesome. (According to Holoien, they’re “the oldest of the less old bands, the joke that went on way too long, and the one which is being laid to rest.”) "Shut Up," from Snakes' 2006 debut, Venom, sums up what the band is all about: "For saying that the snakes ain't awesome / For saying that the snakes ain't great / You'd better shut up." The duo is more stripped-down and goofy than the band it came from, and Holoien and Henry maintain a brash and snotty chemistry in every serpentine ode. Best to show up to the Turf Club early for these guys, as this looks to be their last show.

The Gateway District
The Gateway District could be considered a local pop-punk supergroup, gathering not only former Soviettes guitarist Maren “Sturgeon” Macosko but also members of Banner Pilot, The Salteens, and Dear Landlord. Accustomed to splitting vocal duties, Macosko shares the mic here with the raspy Carrie Tennant. Their 2009 release, Some Days You Get The Thunder, spices up the straight-ahead punk sound with the occasional tinge of country, like the twang of “Highway Song” and the harmonica interlude on “River Trash.”

That’s Incredible
Susy Sharp picked up her bass and headed out West shortly after The Soviettes split, making her new venture That’s Incredible the only non-local band on the bill. Now residing in San Pedro, Calif., the ex-patriot might find returning to the cold difficult, but That’s Incredible’s lively songs bring their own sunny disposition. Armed with loud guitars, fast tempos, and alternating male and female vocalists, they dole out three-chord upbeat punk that's simple but effective. The reunion shows are a jumping-off point for That’s Incredible and The Gateways District’s joint tour, which weaves around the Midwest and East Coast throughout March.