On November 3, 2001, after six years together, 12 Volt Sex said good-bye with a final show at the Huntridge Theatre. By then, the power-punk-pop that Matt Chernoff and his band specialized in had long ago been eclipsed by nu metal, and after being jerked around for two years by RCA, it was clear to all that the band's disc would never be released. Still, during its time together, 12 Volt Sex had cobbled together a loyal local following that sorely missed the band. Though not sold out by any means, about 500 members of that following turned out at the Huntridge last Saturday night to see 12 Volt Sex reunite.
Singer Matt Chernoff, now going by Matt Gucu, is still the personable voice of the band, introducing new songs and showing profuse pleasure as fans sang along to remembered words of familiar favorites, among them "Skin" and "Over Divine." 12 Volt Sex's basic sound hasn't changed, but on first listen, the newer songs have richer lyrics and more complex arrangements, bringing a new level of sophistication to the band. This was particularly true on "Pictures" and "Lullaby," where Mike Stratton's guitar seemed to partake of the spirit of Will Seargeant. With a tight set, the band showed no rust from its time apart. Though it's unclear if this is a return or just a one-off, the new material's strength proves 12 Volt Sex still has more to offer Vegas than nostalgia for the success that might have been, but never was.