I once went to go see a reunion by ’80s metal band Keel at a place in the Valley. Ron Keel had a band before Keel called Steeler that discovered Yngwie Malmsteen. After Steeler broke up, Ron Keel fronted Black Sabbath for a very brief moment, then formed Keel. Keel put out two albums, both produced by Gene Simmons of Kiss.
What can I say? I have a soft spot in my heart for cheesy ’80s metal, and Keel is like melted Velveeta in that genre—the cheesiest! Somehow great and absolutely terrible at the same time. I love it. I can’t help it.
Just check out the video below for “The Right to Rock.” It’s a masterpiece, of sorts.
I think it was around 2008 I saw an ad in the LA Weekly that Keel were doing a reunion gig at a place called Paladino’s in the Valley. There were four opening bands, all of whom played too long. By the time Keel got on stage, the place had cleared out except for seven or eight Keel fans, and me.
They started playing, and they sounded great. A completely professional production. I remarked to myself that they sounded freakin’ great for a band that hadn’t played for years.
They did two songs, and then the sound guy talked to the band through the monitors: “WE GOTTA WRAP THIS UP GUYS, WE’RE OUT OF TIME.” It was harsh. Ouch. One of the harshest moments I’ve ever witnessed with my own eyes.
The band powered through two more songs, including “The Right to Rock.” I was waving my fist in the air and singing along. After they quit playing, I had them sign my album. When I asked for an autograph, Ron Keel desperately looked around the room for metal babes. They had all left. He signed my album, and I felt his pain.
Just watch the video, if you have a minute. And don’t tag Ron or any of the other Keel guys, will ya? My review might hurt feelings, and that really isn’t my intention.
As another musical artist who works really hard to be good and professional and always tries to put on a good show, I can relate to having a bad night, or people not “getting” what it is you do. I’m just glad that I saw Keel live, and, for now, I still have the right to ROCK!
