The Casualties on 05.07.2011 at Stone
“The Casualties” is probably one of the first band names that comes to mind when you take a peek into the punk scene. However, the audience at yesterday's concert at Stone on Ratinger Straße consisted almost entirely of enthusiastic fans who have certainly not just dipped their toes into the music. A competition of hairstyle styles and the number of studs on leather vests. Every song was sung along to, and especially during the probably most famous song “We are all we have,” the mosh pit doubled in size. Despite the relatively few guests, the atmosphere from the band and the audience was fantastic. The now somewhat older band still had the stamina, the perfect look, and the fun just like 20 years ago. However, during the breaks between songs, there was a slight fear that singer Jorge Herrera would collapse and end the concert. But as soon as the music started again, it was “just like old times.” The quality of the live spectacle was hardly distinguishable from recordings of the band, and especially singer Jorge delivered an absolute masterclass on the vocals. Of course, Benny and Thorsten from SS-Kaliert, who were in the audience that evening, were also greeted with a song dedication from the stage, which they must have appreciated, as the band likes to claim a close connection with the Casualties. The audience matched the band in enthusiasm, and both musicians and spectators left the club happy, soaking wet, and with now damaged spikes and mohawks.
Unfortunately, the atmosphere from the Stone staff was impersonal and kept at a distance, which is unusual for parties, and it caught you off guard at the box office. Particularly disappointing were the toilets, which looked like they had been forgotten after the last party just five minutes after entry. And no horde of punks can create that mess in five minutes! Additionally, at the bar, as the only waiting guest, you still had to wait for ten glasses to be washed before placing your order.
The conclusion of this evening: The Casualties, still young at heart, delivered a fantastic performance and made many fans happy at the personal and cozy “After-Show-Party” at Engelchen in the old town. Top-notch hardcore punk to touch and party with.
A small downside to the Düsseldorf music fans, who apparently need to be promised a prize to come to a great concert. Because for a Germany concert of the Casualties in the middle of the old town, it was definitely too empty at Stone.
And another major downside to Stone and especially to the staff, because apparently only the visitors know that this place used to be the Ratinger Hof. The service and behavior were inadequate.
So, Casualties, please come back soon, but at another venue and with a bag of gummy bears for every paying guest 
Text: Julia Felger for Rockzentrale Düsseldorf