Review of MESS Live Performance at Characters Sports Bar in Pomona, CA on 3/26/26
In recent events, drama surrounding a promoter led to a series of bands dropping out of the CY Fest and their pre-shows, causing disappointment among fans. Despite this setback, some touring bands like MESS from Mexico decided to salvage their trip by organizing a last-minute show at Characters Sports Bar in Pomona, CA. The lineup also included Bomber and Broken Cuffs, delivering a memorable live experience for music enthusiasts still eager for a great show during that weekend.
Characters Sports Bar is an impressive venue for those unfamiliar with it. The structure boasts a large brick building with a spacious outdoor patio. Inside, a lengthy bar lines one side, while billiards tables occupy the other. The bands performed outside under a tented patio area, offering surprisingly good acoustics that allowed for clear sound without being overwhelmingly loud, negating the need for earplugs.
The evening kicked off with Broken Cuffs, a three-piece punk band hailing from Palmdale, CA. Technical issues briefly delayed the start of their set and caused mic problems for the singer, but these hiccups did not diminish the band’s solid and energetic performance. Despite the setbacks, they powered through their setlist, engaging the audience with tracks like “Police Brutality,” “Fight,” and an untitled new song featuring the powerful lyrics “I don’t care what you think about me.”
Bomber took the stage next, featuring a mix of veteran musicians from LA with roots in punk, rock’n’roll, and Oi! music. The engaging performance of this four-piece outfit, including a bassist who is originally from the UK, captivated the audience. Their raw and catchy songs like “Choose Your Fate,” “Hard Working Man,” and a new release, “Fuck Ice, Fuck You Too,” resonated with the crowd, creating an infectious energy that led to lively chants and participation.
The night culminated with MESS, an Oi! punk band from Guadalajara, Mexico, delivering a powerful closing performance. Frontman Abraham Vilchis’s raspy and gritty vocals commanded attention, keeping the crowd engaged throughout. Standout moments from their setlist included tracks like “Revenge,” “Leave Me Alone,” and “True Love,” showcasing the band’s depth and charisma on stage.
Despite the initial disappointment caused by the festival’s setbacks, this impromptu show at Characters Sports Bar provided a refreshing and dynamic live music experience for attendees. Each band brought a unique energy and sound to the stage, culminating in a night filled with memorable performances and a vibrant atmosphere that resonated with fans of punk and alternative music.