Moostache garnering rave reviews
Orange County has produced some great bands: No Doubt, Social Distortion and The Offspring, to name a few. On Monday night, up-and-comers Moostache proved they’ve also blessed O.C. with talent.
The Huntington Beach natives concluded their month-long residency at The Constellation Room in Santa Ana with co-headliners Nicole Vaughn and Her Lovely Band.
Opening up with “Hands of Steel,” Moostache showed off a sound comparable to alternative/indie bands Wilco and The Shins.
The group blended its talents flawlessly. This could have something to do with the fact that three of its members are from the same family and grew up together with music surrounding their household. Patrick (vocals), Sean (bass) and Brian Wardell (drums) are brothers, rounded out by Ryan Radcliff on guitar.
Together, the four young men create a sound and live show that easily make them stand out in the local scene.
At first glance, it wouldn’t appear that Patrick Wardell would sing the way he does. It’s surprising that his voice could go so high-pitched, yet remain melodic.
It’s clear that Moostache have a strong connection with their fans. The band constantly bantered with its fans throughout the evening. One fan, for example, poked fun at Patrick Wardell for only wearing socks on stage.
However, Moostache rarely paused from their music. Their spirited set consisted of 10 songs, which were pretty much played back-to-back, something that many bands wouldn’t do, especially for an 11 p.m. set.
Despite the late hour, everyone in the venue was full of energy. It was a bit difficult to move around, as fans filled the floor to dance with the music. However, that didn’t make the show any less enjoyable. The songs had an indie rock vibe with a country flair.
Throughout the set, Moostache dedicated songs to various people and time periods.
“This one’s a ballad,” Patrick Wardell announced.
With that, the band kicked into “Guarded Place.” The song started out soft and slow with relaxing “oohs” from Patrick Wardell. Then, the song got progressively harder and faster, with the vocals transitioning from softer vocals to screams.
“This next one is dedicated to the ‘90s,” said Patrick Wardell about their cover “Head On” by The Pixies. “Pre-smartphone time.”
Originally by Jesus and the Mary Chain, then covered by The Pixies, Moostache added their own indie rock vibe to “Head On.” The band was enthusiastic as it performed the song, making it its own instead of a cookie-cutter version, something that local bands rarely can pull off.
Complete with an eclectic and energetic live show, along with four talented members, Moostache is definitely a band on the horizon.
For more information about Moostache and to download their EP for free, visit moostachemusic.com.