Columbia, SC: A Punk Rock Journey in the Heart of Rosewood
As the sun rises over Columbia, South Carolina, it greets the city with an early morning fog, promising an afternoon filled with warmth and partly cloudy skies. With temperatures reaching 81°F, it’s a fantastic day to explore the vibrant local scene, especially for those with an ear for punk rock.
In the cozy neighborhood of Rosewood, we find a legend of the punk rock world, Kevin K., also known as Kevin Kalicki. The musician, who burst onto the scene in the lively 1970s, has recently released an album that echoes not only his musical roots but also his love for his new home.
A Nod to the Past
Walking down the street from Kevin’s house, one can’t help but notice a karate studio that now occupies the space where once stood a bustling club called The Left Bank. This venue was essential to the punk scene of the ’70s, where the New York Dolls played several unforgettable nights. It was here that a very young Joey Ramone opened for the Dolls, laying the groundwork for what would be a revolution in music.
“When I moved here two years ago, I stood in that parking lot and thought, ‘This is unbelievable,’” Kevin reflects. “In this very spot, icons like Johnny Thunders and David Johansen hung out. To think that I’m walking the same ground as them is just crazy.” It’s this kind of nostalgia that seeps into his music and shapes the essence of the album, aptly titled “Rosewood.”
The Music of a Lifetime
Kevin K. is not just another punk musician; he’s a living piece of punk history. His journey began in New York, where he played his first gig at the iconic CBGB in 1980. Over the years, he graced the stage more than thirty times before the legendary venue closed its doors in 2006. He vividly remembers his first performance: “We did a Sunday night audition night, and everything we read about CBGB was spot on. I loved it,” he said.
As a testament to his journey, the album “Rosewood”, his 36th release, is packed with energy and heart. Teaming up with his band, The Bowery Kats, which includes bassist Garrick Turner and drummer Karl Durden, Kevin has crafted ten tracks infused with the spirit of punk. The album channels the sounds of legendary bands like the Ramones and MC5, with a particular highlight being his cover of The Clash’s “Brand New Cadillac.”
Reflections Through Song
Every song in the album tells a piece of Kevin’s story. The opening track, “Sometime In The Rain,” was born during a chilly moment in his home, where he faced the challenges of the cold without heat. Another track, “What Will I Do,” digs deep into personal loss, written as a tribute to his father who was a guiding force in his life. “He was my rock and my foundation,” he recalls, channeling that emotion into his music.
The album resonates with raw energy, celebrating a journey that spans cities and life stages—from the icy landscapes of Detroit to the warmth of Florida, concluding with the touching acoustic piece, “My Time Has Come and Gone.” But don’t let the title fool you; Kevin is far from done. While he expresses a sense of nostalgia for the punk scenes of yesteryear, he continues to perform and create, bringing the past alive to all who will listen.
A Live Performance to Remember
For fans eager to experience this punk rock pioneer live, mark your calendars for November 2, when Kevin K. takes the stage at The Aristocrat in Columbia, alongside LongTooth. “I feel like a rock-and-roll dinosaur, and I don’t care,” he laughs. “If people come to see me, they’re going to like what I do. It’s a walk through the past.”
So, as the afternoon sun filters through the clouds and the warmth blankets the city, consider stepping out to enjoy the rich sounds of punk rock that still echo in the heart of Columbia. Discovering Kevin K. and his music is not just a treat for the ears; it’s a nostalgic journey through the colorful tapestry of punk history that weaves through the very streets of Rosewood.
