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Biography
With a lineup comprised of vocalist Ken Pucci, guitarist Scott Hill, bassist Mark Abshire and drummer Ruben Romano, Fu Manchu originally formed under the moniker Virulence in 1985. Ahead of their debut studio album, bassist Abshire parted ways and was replaced by Greg McCaughey in 1988. A year later the LP “If This Isn’t a Dream…” was issued by Alchemy Records following which lead singer Pucci departed and the vocal reigns were handed to Glenn Chivens. In 1992 following a series of lineup changes the group issued three 7” singles “Senioritis”, “Pick Up Summer”, and “Don’t Bother Knockin’ (If This Vans Rockin’)”. The full-length “No One Ride for Free” was subsequently released on Bong Load Custom Records in 1994 earning positive reviews.
Plagued by lineup alterations once again, for the release of their third album “Daredevil”, Fu Manchu consisted of frontman Scott Hill, drummer Ruben Romano, guitarist Eddie Glass, and bassist Brad Davis. “Daredevil” proved another popular album, which the band supported with lengthy touring with stoner rock darlings Monster Magnet. The tour did wonders for the band's national exposure, however did nothing for Fu Mancu’s tumultuous membership, as after releasing their fourth full-length “In Search Of…” in 1996, Romano and Glass left the group.
During this time Romano, Glass and Abshire combined to form the jam-stoner rock group Nebula, and Fu Manchu cemented their reputation as a prodigious live act touring alongside the Melvins, White Zombie, and Clutch. The full-length “The Action is Go” appeared in 1997 on Mammoth Records, boasting a lineup of Scott Hill, Brad Davis, guitarist Bob Balch and drummer Brant Bjork. “Return to Earth” followed in 1998, a compilation of the band’s existing singles, after which the EP “Eatin’ Dust” was issued to test the water for future releases. Fu Manchu’s sixth album “King of the Road” earned it release in 2000 featuring the Devo cover “Freedom of Choice”, after which they toured extensively before emerging in 2001 to release “California Crossing”. Produced by Matt Hyde, the album’s lead single “Squash That Fly” received regular radio airplay upon its release.
By this point Fu Manchu’s live show was at its peak, which was documented and showcased on the 2003 live album “For for It…Live!”, after which the full-length “Start the Machine” was released in 2004. Following a move to Liquor and Poker Music, Fu Manchu issued their 2007 album “We Must Obey”, followed by “Signs of Infinite Power” in 2009, and “Gigantoid” in 2014.
Live reviews
Stoner rock has been a disputed genre in the last few years yet an undisputed icon of this controversial sound is Southern California band Fu Manchu. Active on the circuit since 1985, they prided themselves on being a cult choice back in their heyday and the same can be said today. Although there is an appeal to seeing this group perform outdoors at festivals as the smell of a medicinal plant drifts through the air, their alt-punk sounds intensify when confided to smaller places.
Lit from behind with a variety of coloured lights, they create complexing shadows and figures as they jerk and move around with their instruments in hand. Although they pride themselves as slacker rock stars, you have to appreciate their musicianship and ability as each band member is completely on point throughout the night even when it begins to descend into madness. The scuzzy nu-metal sounds are part of the appeal, this is no polished rock outfit but a rough and ready basement jam band and the fans respond to this. As they ask for a salute during the finale of 'King Of the Road' their following raises their arms towards the fractured riffs and messy drum solos.
sean-ward
Fu Manchu delivered an excellent set when I saw them perform. They're not your typical rock band. None of the members have tattoos or piercings. The only things that might be similar is the longer hair on a few members. Besides that, they look like surfers. But do not mistake them for being soft. Because they can rock out with the best of them.
They put on a near 2 hour set, which I found quite enjoyable. Many of the songs were from their newest album, though fans were happy to hear some older music as well, such as Weird Beard. They even covered a few bands, including Blue Oyster Cult, which came off fantastic. It was a bit weird to see these guys play that kind of music in their bright striped shirts. Everyone has gotten so used to a certain image that anything different seems strange.
But I found myself not even paying attention to it after a while. It didn't matter what they were wearing. Their music spoke volumes. I had an awesome time at their show. Would love to see them again sometime, as they're a real treasure in a sea of conformity. Breaking the mould isn't always a bad thing, and these guys make that crystal clear.
Excellent show, they came on promptly, played a solid first set of lesser heard material. Their stage presence is so awesome, the warm up where they just stroll around stage and dial in the wall of sound is so great.. tweak a knob slightly, check a cable.. walk around like a goof. It's so metal and funny at the same time.
Second set was all King of The Road which was great. Second time i've seen them at Bottom of the Hill, and i'd definitely go again!
Fu Manchu is a great band.
jameshingston
Oh man, so groovy. Sometimes music sounds really good on studio albums but not so great live. This is not one of those cases. These guys brought it hard. The show was sold out, and for good reason. I'd been wanting to see them live for a long time and glad I finally got the chance. Will definitely look for them on their next tour.
sentinel213
Always loved these guys and seen them twice before. This concert was truly awesome, they barely took a breath between songs so we were rocked to our core for about 90 minutes non stop! Longest and best encore of any concert I've ever been to!! Highly recommend to any stoner / desert rock fans!
niclindsay
FU Manchu, brought the rock!! As usual, they were high energy, awesome sound, they are one of the best live shows ever!!! The crowd goes nuts every time the play. I love the fact they play small venues still
Pokey151
This band is one of my all time faves. Slims is a great venue to check them out in. Fu Manchu were amazing! Amazing sound and show !! I recommend if you haven’t seen them put it down on your bucket list!!!!
CFTL67
