It’s the first rule in the punk-rock manual: Must be unconventional. And few punk bands traveled a more unconventional path than Pennywise. Formed in 1988 in Hermosa Beach, Calif., Pennywise rejected the hair-metal genre that defined the Southern California rock scene throughout the 1980s. Instead, it chose to be at the forefront of a punk revolution that, by the early 1990s, would see fellow bands such as Blink-182, Bad Religion and Green Day cross over.
Over the years, Pennywise continued its unconventional ways, opting for lyrics that promoted a positive mental attitude, rather than the usual angst and anarchy. Clearly, their message resonated with an audience: Through 2007, Pennywise had independently sold more than 3 million records worldwide, an impressive achievement considering they never had the backing of a major label. Next year, Pennywise commemorates its 30th anniversary with its 12th studio album, but first the crew will trek across the desert to close out 2017 by headlining an all-punk New Year’s Eve show. Perhaps they’ll bring along some of their California-based Pennywiser beer to celebrate when the clock strikes midnight. Yep, they have their own beer—told you they were unconventional …
House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 9 p.m. Dec. 31, starting at $29.50 plus tax and fee, 18+. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
