No Stiffs: Viagra Boys Prove They’re a Must-see Concert.

With equal parts swagger and malaise, authority and playfulness, Viagra Boys stormed into Saint Paul for a concert that proved you need to see them live to truly appreciate their talent.

Not just see, experience. Because the self-proclaimed “punk rock losers” deliver a frenetic and energetic show, contrary to “don’t care” sentiment underlying many of their songs. And one that their devoted fans thoroughly imbibe themselves into.

Right from the opening “Man Made of Meat”, lead singer Sebastian Murphy gleefully proclaimed I don’t wanna pay for anything/clothes and food and drugs for free. And whipped the crowd into a moshing, crowd-surfing frenzy.

Murphy also engaged the crowd frequently, declaring that he’s just a “normal guy…having a good time”. So regular, he even fished in the Mississippi River before the show. And ate two White Castle sliders. Credit due, he even greeted Saint Paul and the Twin Cities by the correct names.

At times when talking, the crowd still felt whipped into a frenzy from opening songs like “Slow Learner and “Punk Rock Loser”. Murphy even commented, “you’re not listening to me”. And throughout the show, his joyful playfulness and swagger frequently shone in his lyrics and demeanor.

Yet the band is more than Murphy, bolstered by grooving percussion as heard with songs like “Ain’t No Theif”. As a bonus, Saxophone and clarinet accompany songs, as heard with an extended version of “Cold Play” that served as a sax solo.

And throughout the night, the crowd’s energy started at a pinnacle and remained. Fans were so into it, someone released weiner dog balloons when mentioned in “Sports”. And fans danced by the Palace Theatre bar for an extended period of time. One male fan was even shirtless.

Starting off the evening was a high-flying opening from Austin, Texas punk rockers Die Spitz. Their recently released debut album was heavily featured, ripping right onto the stage with “Throw Yourself to the Sword” and “Red40”. “Hair of Dog” was also a highlight, with Ava Schrobilgen providing vocals while Ellie Livingston played to the edge of the stage. And ultimately, in the pit. Keep an eye out for this band.

As Viagra Boys encored with “The Bog Body”, “ADD”, and “Worms”, they proved that seeing them live is to get the most of their music…boisterous personalities that harmonize with the humor of their lyrics. Who else can make “weird sex stuff in the basement” and wondering if “a shrimp can get a scholarship to sports” so much fun?