Wed 11/26 @ 8PM
In the late ’70s and early ’80s, Unit 5 was one of the shining hopes of the Akron music scene. Less artsy and experimental than bands like Tin Huey, Chi Pig and Devo, less assaultive and slap-dash than punk bands like the Rubber City Rebels, the Bizarros and Hammer Damage, the band called its ever-so-slightly edgy new wave music “dark pop.” With its striking female singer Tracey Thomas, it was exactly the sort of thing that was embraced by MTV when it went on the air in 1981.
Alas, major-label lightning didn’t strike Unit 5. Their only record was 1981’s Scared of the Dark on Akron-based Clone Records. Thomas has made some outstanding solo albums in the last 20 years, with a matured voice and musical style that draws blues, jazz and even country. You can still hear her perform around the Akron area, sometimes even doing her Billie Holiday tribute.
Now you can hear her and her fellow Unit 5 bandmates relive the days when they were young and dewy and hoping to be the next MTV favorites. They’ll be playing a reunion show at Jilly’s Music Room in Akron.
Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 day of show. You’d be advised to get them in advance. Not only are a lot of nostalgic old fans likely to flock to this one, but it’s Thanksgiving Eve, traditionally a big night for clubs.
One Response to “Akron New Wavers Unit 5 Play Reunion Show at Jilly’s Music Room”
Peter M Adams
I am the younger brother of Matthew Adams who was an avid supporter of the band. I featured the band in a new wave tape I played at pi kappa alpha fraternity parties at the university of Cincinnati throughout 1982 and 1983. This band made us a little cooler than everybody else .