311 conquers Midwest

Jon Dahlager

ST. PAUL, Minn. — 311 may be the police code for indecent exposure in Omaha, Neb., but as the band of the same name proved Wednesday in St. Paul, Minn., it should stand for endless energy.

The band’s enthusiasm was immediately apparent, lasting from the first note that roared from guitarist Tim Mahoney’s instrument to the end of the set.

Quietly taking the dimly lit stage at Roy Wilkins Auditorium, the Nebraska boys erupted into their most successful single, “Down,” a song the band uses to thank their dedicated legions of fans.

As the funkified bass bounced with the guitar groove, rapper S.A. Martinez became one with the beat, laid down by drummer Chad Sexton.

His dancing ranged from flowing to frantic as he rapped the verses to “Down.”

There was no break following the opening song as the band ripped into the first single from “Soundsystem,” 311’s latest release.

“Come Original” revealed 311’s vocal prowess, with vocalist/guitarist Nick Hexum rolling out a sweet vocal melody that mixed well with Martinez’ turn table scratching.

The incredible pace of the show did not slow for the rest of the evening, as the band’s energy seemed entirely limitless.

Jumping and running around the stage, the band was never without a smile — something that obviously transferred to their music.

311 loves the unique mix of hard rock, reggae and hip-hop it plays for its fans.

The group didn’t just get a rush from playing its songs — the hard-core fans seemed to fuel the band’s intense musical fire.

After the frenzied opening numbers, Hexum drew in a deep breath and beamed at the crowd.

Glistening with sweat, he asked the fans how they were doing, a question that released an explosion from those who had gathered to hear their heroes.

Spurred on by the response, Hexum and the rest of the band launched into the body of the set.

After playing songs that spanned its entire career, 311 relaxed a bit, peering at the crowd through a haze of cigarette and marijuana smoke that was floating throughout the venue.

Not ready to back down yet, the band asked the gathered faithful if they would like to hear “All Mixed Up,” another massively successful single from its self-titled release.

A joyful cheer from the crowd served as an intro to the song, and a chorus of 311 fans backed Hexum and Martinez.

Each member displayed individual musical talent during an extended jam session that was capped off by a stellar, inventive and hair-raising drum solo.

311 played with the intent to leave no one unsatisfied, and it did so with great success and unquestionable power.