By: Laura Alber

I've always been an admirer of Juliette Lewis' acting ability, she has such diversity. After watching "Strange Days" years ago, I also began to admire her vocal abilities as well. I was so in awe of her rendition of "I Can Hardly Wait", that I had to go out and buy the soundtrack for the film. 

Then one night, I happened to catch the Sharon Osbourne show, Juliette was a guest and was talking about her new band "Juliette and the Licks". I immediately called my friend in LA. I told him to be on the lookout in October at the clubs for this band. 

In an ironic twist of fate, I happened to be going to LA on business October 15th-20th, and the day before I left for LA, I got invited to attend a showcase gig at "The Knitting Factory" with "Juliette and the Licks". We arrived at the packed club and met a lot of her family members who were there as well. Then after much anticipation from the energetic crowd- "Juliette and the Licks" appeared on stage. 

Photo Credit: Barry King/WireImage.com

To look at her small frame, you would never guess this sound was coming from her. It was pure, uninhibited, raw adrenaline pumping out of this multi-talent. She moved on the stage as if she "was" the music, contorting to every beat, every movement had meaning. You're almost transformed into some kind of hypnotic state just watching her perform - you can't take your eyes off her, you're too afraid you'll miss something. "The Licks" were equally as good, they were tight, strong and thanks to a great soundman, each instrument was crystal clear. 

Juliette would occasionally introduce a song, and at one point she spoke to the audience and threw in a little comic relief. "Some of you might recognize me - I do a little acting part time"...(many laughs) "I was in this little movie called "Natural Born Killers", (a roar of cheers from the crowd), "Well, everyone's always asking my parents if I'm really THAT crazy...they never ask if Woody is that crazy...Well, I've got the answer for you now - I'M JUST THAT FUCKING GOOD!!" The crowd ROARS, the band kicks in and Juliette started cranking out yet another tune for us. 

If a label doesn't pick this group up soon, they're out of their minds! Between the energy and the lyrics, this is just the kind of new band the public wants to hear. 

I definitely look forward to seeing the band again soon, and I highly suggest you see "Juliette and the Licks" if they are playing near you!!!