Local “slop ‘n’ bop” or “rhythm ‘n’ booze” group, the Get Wets, have been making a stir in the Columbia music scene. They’re building a reputation for energetic shows (and nice legs, since the band insists on playing in swimsuits year-round).
During the summer of 2006, several New Brookland Tavern employees came up with an idea for an old-school party band as a way to combat the heat. Wipeout, the lead artist, kept the idea alive on his own until a year ago, when he met his current bandmates, two of whom are his Thomas Cooper Library co-workers.
The lineup consists of Floyd on the “sticks and skins” (drums), Jay Jay on the “fuzz bass,” D.B. on the “fuzz organ” and Wipeout on the “jangle Frisbee shakin’ ‘n’ shoutin’” (tamborine). The Get Wets intentionally left out any guitars, stating that they “just don’t believe in them.”
The group claims to be fans of doo-wop, surf and garage punk when they are required to place their preferences into genres, but they are more likely to credit their inspiration to “Jacuzzis, koozies and never-ending parties.” Les Sexareenos, “The Beach Boys’ Party!” LP and Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs have also influenced the Get Wets’ sound and style.
“Contrary to popular belief, the name is not meant to be dirty, but implies exactly what y’all get if ya come to one of our shows and allow yerself to shimmy to our sounds,” Wipeout explains. “Y’all get wet with spirits and sweat, baby.”
The Get Wets don’t plan on stopping their party any time soon. They’ve become hits at house parties and shows with other bands alike, making appearances at events such as WUSC-FM’s Monster Mash last October. They have hinted at a possible 45-rpm record release and an appearance on a compilation due out sometime this year. Keep an eye on their Myspace (www.myspace.com/thegetwets) and Facebook page.
