Sometimes the best sets are the ones that almost didn’t happen. Just days before the show, MeanMan of York got the call—the opener had dropped, and Xyph reached out with a golden opportunity: the opening slot at Skid Row Garage on May 31st. The band didn’t hesitate. “Shit yea, we would love to play that room,” came the reply. And just like that, the gears started turning.
With only 36 hours to promote, the band launched a full-throttle marketing blitz, armed with a beautifully doctored-up poster by Hagen and a whole lot of hustle. The stars aligned: it was a sunny, electric day, the streets of York were alive with a festival atmosphere, and the Skid Row Garage was buzzing with anticipation.
As the crowd packed in, MeanMan of York took the stage with a promise: “We’re going to dose you here for 30 minutes.” And dose they did.
AJ kicked things off with a thunderous fill, launching into “What They Taught You” from their Revisionist History album—a track with a swaggering swing that immediately set the tone. The stage sound was so powerful it had the band shaking in their boots. “I knew this would be a night to remember,” one member later said.
Without missing a beat, they rolled into “Full Moon and the Gemini,” another standout from the same album, and the crowd was fully locked in. The set flowed seamlessly into “Other Side,” a fan favorite that’s since been immortalized in a live video from the night. Check out the vid here!
The beat went on with the rip-roaring “90s”, a groove-heavy track driven by a deep, rolling bass line that had heads nodding and feet moving. Then came the high-energy, quick-hitter “Take Me Home,” a punchy anthem that kept the adrenaline flowing.
To close out their set, the band dropped a staple: “Mind Bender” from The Crapper album—a heavy, riff-laden track that channels the spirit of Black Sabbath without ever crossing into cover territory. It was a fitting finale, a sonic exclamation point that left the crowd buzzing.
This show wasn’t just a great night—it was rejuvenating for a local scene. Patrons and bands alike had no idea of the looming loss of The Kennel at the West York Inn, which was later shut down by the state. And in a bittersweet twist, it would be one of the last big nights at Skid Row Garage, which closed its doors later in the year.
But even as venues vanish, the spirit of the York underground music scene lives on. Creative new spaces are popping up, and bands like MeanMan of York are keeping the flame alive.
Keep the rock alive. Go see a local band.
Featured Performers at the Skid Row Show
Defiant
Next up was Defiant, a band that lives up to its name. With a sound rooted in street punk and hardcore, they delivered a blistering set full of tension-filled vocals sparring with melodic riffs at breakneck tempos. The pit came alive during their set, with fans slamming and shouting along. Their energy was infectious, and their message—one of resistance and unity—resonated deeply with the crowd. I need a new hugger.
The Bo-Deadlys
The third act, The Bo-Deadlys, brought a surf-punk twist to the evening. Their retro-inspired aesthetic and twangy guitar tones offered a refreshing contrast to the heavier acts. Think The Cramps meet The Misfits, with a splash of garage rock swagger. Their set was fun, fast, and full of attitude, and by the end, they had the whole room dancing.
Ike’s Wasted World
Closing out the night was Ike’s Wasted World, a band led by former Lost Breed guitarist Eric “Ike” Baestlein. Their performance was a masterclass in thrash-infused rock ‘n’ roll. With blistering solos, tight rhythms, and a commanding stage presence, Ike and his band tore through a set that felt both nostalgic and fresh. The crowd, now fully immersed in the music, roared with approval after every song. This show setup a future collaboration with Ike and MeanMan ofYork later in the summer for a show at the Kennel.
The Venue
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