You can find some pretty wacky shit in Portland, but that doesn’t make it any less special when you find something that truly revels in its weirdness. Meet Vern Fonk, the band who did in fact name themselves after the late Seattle insurance agent. Right now they have a music video out for their song “Cobain,” which is not, quote “abt kurt cobain ya fuckers.” It features the band decked out in full costume dancing around Clackamas Town Center. Not only do they make a spectacle of themselves, they do so while having a lot of fun. I never thought I would want to run around a mall in a cow costume, but after watching Vern Fonk I’m kind of tempted.
The song itself is a solid punk bop. It has the heart of the early punk 3-chord rule, but it’s repackaged in a more lo-fi body. The guitar riffs and drums keep a strong and consistent rhythm. The bass really stands out, which always makes a song more intense and enjoyable. The energy gets ramped up several notches every time the members yell, “I’m here don’t treat me like shit.” Vern Fonk is most definitely here, and you don’t want to miss out. Check out the music video below.
-By Avril Carrillo