Savage Henry at the Gothic

Taking its name from a heroin dealer in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, Savage Henry has paid its dues for the past several years, juggling regular gigs and a tour schedule that extends well beyond the efforts of most of its peers. More impressive, the band has managed to blend modern-rock influences with elements of blues, ska and funk without sounding stale. Live shows are energetic affairs in which even singer Damon Guerrasio's often-silly stage antics make for memorable performances. Testing and honing songs on the road in front of new audiences has been fruitful for Savage Henry (due at the Gothic Theatre this Friday, July 3), as evidenced by the act's latest album, Step Lively, which boasts a solid set of songs that should gain this quintet ever wider audiences.