Libby MolyneauxJust when you thought how amazing it is that the original lineup of the Go-Go's is still together after 30-plus years, one of them goes and breaks a hip … well, a wrist. Kathy Valentine will be temporarily replaced by local bass hero Abby Travis for this tour, but with Travis' experience with Beck, KMFDM and Elastica, among loads of other credits, she's definitely got the beat. When the Go-Go's played the Greek last summer, they were touring with wily youngsters Girl in a Coma. Now they hit their hometown as part of “Totally '80s Hollywood Bowl” mousse-fest with Psychedelic Furs, The Motels and Bow Wow Wow. We spoke with Travis.
See also: The Go-Go's and Girl in a Coma – the Greek Theatre – 8-17-11
Have you ever played the Hollywood Bowl?
No. I used to go for walks, starting at that scenic view turnoff on Mulholland; down the hill where you can see the Bowl from the back. I'd sit and think “One Day…” And here we are! It's a real dream come true. Maybe those “positive visualization hippies” are on to something?
Do you remember the first show you saw there?
As a child I fell asleep during the 1812 Overture but woke up for the fireworks!
Have you always been a Go-Go's fan?
I was — and still am — blown away by the chemistry of the band. In this trite landscape of manufactured and management put-together acts, The Go-Go's remain totally real! I love the minimalist guitar arrangements and the punk quality of the live show. I love Gina's drumming and the combined sound of all the vocals. I am a HUGE fan! The Go-Go's bring the fun and wrote all those great songs!
When Kathy's healed and back with the band, what's on your schedule?
The first order of business is decorating my front yard for my annual Halloween freak-out display! I am the Halloween Lady in my neighborhood. I have some vocals to create for a forthcoming Anubian Lights album and bass students to teach as well. Jessie Deluxe and I are forming an all-girl stoner rock band and are looking for a drummer.
What's your fave Go-Gos song to play?
Tough call! I love singing with Jane, Belinda and Charlotte. I don't sing much on “This Town,” but it's always been a fave. “Tonight” and “Our Lips Are Sealed” are super fun to sing and play. I'm enjoying the whole show!
Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave, Hlwyd.; Sat., Sept. 29, 7 p.m.; $25-$120
See also: The Go-Go's and Girl in a Coma – the Greek Theatre – 8-17-11
Follow us on Twitter @LAWeeklyMusic, and like us at LAWeeklyMusic.
Top 20 Musicians of All Time, in Any Genre
Top 20 Sexiest Female Musicians of All Time
Top 20 Worst Bands of All Time
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.