Big Deal at Durty Nellie's - 10/7/00
Reviewed By	Eric J. Olsen
The Opinion
A snazzy Osco wardrobe, three chords, and the occasional cigarette trick may describe some bands, but Big Deal isn't one of them. From the moment they took the stage, they had control of the room. The crowd had no choice but to be swept into the world of Big Deal. Whether they're playing a "sing-along" or an original tune, these guys give it their all. Even while playing the requisite covers, Big Deal managed to make all the songs their own. From Creed's "Higher" to dada's "Dim," they played a good mix of songs with which they kept the crowd vastly entertained. The only questionable choice of "sing-along" they played was Neil Diamond's "Coming To America," although they did manage to make even that song rock. But they really shined when they played their own material. Allan Kozicki pounded the skins, while Gary Mascetti filled out the bottom with his melodic bass. They provided an excellent foundation on which Mark Chernich laid his blistering guitar. All this was presided over by Matt Kush who provided strong vocals (with Mark And Gary backing him up) along with the occasional rhythm guitar work. They know how to be on a stage. Their stage presence was strong and their playing was tight. The intensity of their performance was remarkable, as evidenced by the maniacal gaze of Matt. When four indivduals combine to form a single organism, the end result is an awesome sonic feast. And that's precisely what Big Deal manages to accomplish. They didn't just get up on stage and play their songs. They involved the crowd in the show, even bringing one fan up on-stage with them to sing along. Even the most technically proficient band would falter without being able to interact with the crowd and get them excited. Big Deal succeeds in both aspects. Even plagued with broken guitar strings, a blown amp (like I said, Mark plays a blistering guitar), and a mic stand that could have used some viagra, the intensity of the show never waned. Although a bit reluctant at the start, within a song or two the crowd relinquished control to Big Deal. By the end of the set, the crowd was dancing and begging for more.
Nutshell Review
Energy, charisma, showmanship, and talent; Big Deal is the complete package.
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