The annual Aftershock Rock festival is my favorite time of year. While creating my must-see schedule, I noticed a local Bay Area band with a couple of interesting YouTube videos and a new album release. Then I discovered they would be playing a pre-festival gig at my favorite punk-rock venue. So, I packed it up and headed out to Bottom of the Hill to see StrateJacket in person.
No one really knows if there is a Jennifer. Almost everyone in the crowd and band had a string around their neck dangling a girl’s printed photo. I did ask, but I understand the mystery shall remain, as the concept began as a story in college. The majority of their songs were original and sourced from fun life adventures. One in particular was a unique situation: rock climbing. Then, they spun into adapting popular pop songs into a punk rock twist. The last song was on the softer side, ending with a smooth smile to a kid in the crowd.
StrateJacket 
This trio has a fun and welcoming stage performance supported by a loyal following. The crowd sang along to almost every song perfectly, just like the days of Tragically Hip. The sing-a-long is addictive, as the lyrics are fun and sourced from true-life situations. The crowd and artist interactions were so common that the stage as a barrier was an illusion, yet respected.
Talented musicians and a singer with a vocal range that gracefully and respectfully adapted Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison” into a punk rock. Their collaboration was so tight there wasn’t a need for a setlist. Guitarist Fabian Angle’s advice to the moshing crowd – “Stay Hydrated or Intoxicated – But always share love to the bar.” The crowd erupted once they ended with a thank you and good night. The walls actually vibrated with the demand of “One More Song.” The guys gathered for a minute then returned with a 45 second song to calm the crowd. I agree it’s best not to refuse the demands of a hardcore rock crowd.
Listed as an indie rock band, they were emotionally and musically committed to playing every genre: punk, surf rock, blues, and funk with heart and soul. Their smooth flow was fun and unique. It was easy to mosh, sway, jump feverishly, and remain in rhythm. The rhythm never ended, even when the drummer’s glasses flew off during a song he never missed a beat. The set magically blended. After a few songs, I stopped trying to analyze/categorize and just relaxed. My favorite genre, punk rock, was near the end of their set. It was a tough decision whether to leave a few minutes early and catch the last train home or stay and take the long ride on the late-night bus.
