Rogers Sisters:

The Hives show was akin to a massive caffeine overdose. Not only did the band steam their way through the soulful, punky garage music that’s made them famous, they did it with more attitude and energy than anyone should legally be allowed to possess. Dressed in their Sunday-go-to-meeting getups, they struck a visual impression as well. Front man Pelle Almqvist often stood with one foot on the stage and one on the barricade.

He taunted the audience: “America has forgotten how to rock and roll. We picked up where you left off.” It would be laughably arrogant if they didn’t prove their point with each new sonic punch in the face. “Walk Idiot Walk”, “Hate To Say I Told You So” and “Main Offender” caused the crowd to involuntarily bounce but “Dead Quote Olympics” and “Two-Timing Touch And Broken Bones” were downright manic. The Hives were all-out, all the time. They’re sweaty, audacious and ridiculous. They’re rock and roll.

(Chris McKay / concertshots.com)