Priest DC: A Secret Weapon in Auburn

Pistol Pete's in Auburn, California, became the unlikely epicenter of a rock and roll revelation recently, hosting Priest DC, a band that promised a unique double-dose of classic metal and hard rock. Promoted with a cryptic "if you know, you know" nod, the buzz centered on the presence of none other than Scott Travis, the legendary drummer of Judas Priest. And let me tell you, those in the know were rewarded handsomely.

Walking into Pistol Pete's, a cozy, unassuming bar, I was pleasantly surprised by the packed house. The anticipation was evident. Then, the opening chords of AC/DC's "Riff Raff" ripped through the room, and any lingering doubts evaporated. Immediately, Francis Crouse, channeling Brian Johnson with uncanny accuracy, seized the stage. His raw, raspy vocals and energetic stage presence were spot-on, a testament to his dedication to the role.

The band, comprised of Jack Whelen and Ken Hower on guitars, and Al Campbell on bass, proved to be a tight, well-oiled machine. They tore through AC/DC classics like "Shoot to Thrill," "Hells Bells," and "Girls Got Rhythm" with infectious energy. The crowd, a mix of seasoned rockers and curious newcomers, was instantly hooked, singing along and dancing with abandon. And then there was Scott Travis. His drumming was, as expected, phenomenal. Precise, powerful, and effortlessly driving the band forward, he was a masterclass in rock drumming.

After a blistering AC/DC set, the atmosphere shifted. Jeff Martin took the stage, and Priest DC seamlessly transitioned into their Judas Priest persona. The band launched into a series of Priest anthems, including "Metal Gods," "Breaking the Law," and "You've Got Another Thing Comin'," and they delivered them with the same intensity and precision as their AC/DC counterparts. Martin's vocals were powerful and clear, capturing the essence of Rob Halford's iconic sound. The rhythm section, anchored by Travis's thunderous drumming, was relentless.

Just when you thought the show had peaked, Francis Crouse returned, launching into another full set of AC/DC hits. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the band's ability to keep the crowd engaged throughout the night. As a final, unexpected treat, they closed the show with Accept's "Balls to the Wall," a fittingly raucous finale to a night of pure, unadulterated rock and roll.

Priest DC is more than just a tribute band; they're a celebration of two legendary acts, performed with passion and skill. The band's attention to detail, from the vocals to the instrumentation, was remarkable. But what truly set them apart was their genuine love for the music and their ability to connect with the audience. And with Scott Travis behind the kit, they had a secret weapon that elevated the entire experience. Pistol Pete's might be a small bar, but on this night, it hosted a performance that felt larger than life.