Die Trying is fixing to get ready to rock

Few Sacramento bands could headline a weeknight show and draw more than 50 people. While attendance isn’t always the best indicator of “good” music, in the case of the 150-plus people who showed up last month to see Die Trying at the Boardwalk in Orangevale, it was.

From the opening chords of “Die Trying” to the drum intro leading into “Lo Pan,” it was evident that singer Jassen and company weren’t about to go out quietly. Guitarist Jack Sinamian and bassist Steve Avery held down a mean groove while drummer Matt pounded the skins like a crazed psychopath. With Jassen’s cocky but confident stage demeanor and his raspy yet alluring voice up front, the band hit its stride by their second song and never looked back

During such numbers as “Never Good Enough” or the aptly titled “F*ck You,” the crowd drowned out Jassen’s amplified voice. Even Die Trying’s newest song, “Salvation,” which made its live debut during the band’s opening set for Papa Roach at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium in June, sounded like a hit and received an alarmingly positive response.

Although not yet an icon or teen idol, Jassen’s onstage persona echoed that of many rock greats; he proved he can deliver the goods. He moved about the Boardwalk’s stage constantly nestling his feet and crouching over the floor monitors in perfect Ian Astbury form. While not exactly as defined as Appetite-era Guns N’ Roses or as perfected as the Cult’s early years, it’s evident that he’s got something going on.

In attendance were the usual suspects, from such local bands as Still Life Projector, Long Drive Home and 26 Weeks, along with 98 Rock’s Alex Payne. It was the fans ranging from 16-30, however, that made the night so special: It was as if they were never going to see the band again. Unfortunately, that notion was partially true.

Never one to forget his paying customers, Jassen continually thanked those for venturing out on a weeknight.

Since Die Trying just signed a record deal with Island Def Jam, after only one year in existence, odds are the band will be holed up in pre-production and recording for the rest of 2002, to meet an early 2003 release date. With only a handful of shows scheduled, it might be wise to catch the band before it goes into hibernation.

Die Trying plays Capitol Garage on Friday, August 16, with Key to Arson, Singe and Downside. Buy a couple of $5 albums while you’re at it.