FYP and DFL are SFG at the Sardine

FYP and DFL are SFG at the Sardine: Todd Congelliere is something of a local legend in San Pedro. He’s the man behind Recess Records, and alongside Isaac Thotz of the Arrivals, he started the Recess Ops record distribution company, and the Sardine venue.

Congelliere is also the frontman with, among others, FYP (Five Year Plan) and Toys That Kill. FYP were active for a decade between 1989 and ’99, after which they immediately rejigged into Toys That Kill. In 2012, the members of TTK played shows as FYP again, and that’s a lot of fucking initials.

So here at Congelliere’s own Sardine, FYP and Toys That Kill played a joint set. As someone not entirely familiar with either band’s arsenal of great tunes, it wasn’t exactly clear where one ended and the other began. Not that it mattered.

“Come Home Smelly,” the title track from the 2000 FYP album, is a particularly memorable moment from an entirely memorable set. An enthusiastic, energetic and pit-friendly crowd only enhanced the riotous vibe.

DFL, or Dead Fucking Last (more initials), formed in ’91 and will be remembered by some for the fact that Beastie Boy Ad-Rock was originally in the ranks. They broke up in ’97, but singer Crazy Tom and guitarist Monty Messex reformed the band in 2013. DFL is now completed by drummer Jordan Jacques and bassist Patrick Sullivan.

The set on Friday night, prior to FYP/TTK, was superb; Tom is the perfect punk rock frontman — powerful and hilarious. “Retribution” and “Proud to be DFL” are the highlights, but there are no lowlights.

Opening up the whole evening was Stormhouse, a band that we’ve watched grow over the past few years, between sets at the nearby Alex’s Bar and this one. Markie Medina has evolved into a stunning performer, part Poly Styrene and part Siouxsie. Musically they’ve gotten tighter, and “Rise & Fall” is an absolute banger.

Another great night of punk then, crammed into the Sardine.

FYP and DFL are SFG at the Sardine

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