Double lineup fills the bill at Harper's, & it's a beautiful night for Benevolent Tomorrow, set to open AAM Awards Show
By Rob Swick

"... The youngest performers were also the first to play, a precocious trio from L.A. called Acidic. Guitarist/vocalist Michael Gossard, backed by brothers Kyle and Christopher Lynch on drums and bass, produced a peppy, punky package of original tunes for a lively crowd that consisted of friends, family, and enthusiastic admirers from all over the San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles.

Although he shares a surname with grunger Stone Gossard of Pearl Jam (no reported relation, though), Michael's approach showed why he's more often referred to as a teen Billy Joe Armstrong for a new generation of rockers. He had attitude without being rude, rough edges without being sloppy, and an earnestness that could only have come from the sincere heart of a young dreamer who has the talent and drive to bring his dreams alive.

Diminutive bassist Christopher almost seemed smaller than his instrument, but by being seriously focused through the course of each song, he acquitted himself admirably, keeping his content clinker-free. His bro Kyle kept the beat strong, singing backup while hitting heavy on the cymbals, through a solid set of songs.

Tunes including "Without a Trace," "Black Box," and "Stray" were belted out by Michael in time-honored punk fashion, with a bit of a British inflection. Acidic's closing number, "Lost the Will," ended with these appropriate words: "You're out of time!" - as the band bowed to enthusiastic applause..."