This is a band that is clearly destined for controversy, and not only because of their name. Lead singer and chief creator Steve Perry brings a Zappa-esque quality of satire, humor and in your face performance art to the stage, the style of which, some will undoubtedly find offensive. Among the visual aids for last Friday's WOW Hall show were a giant pickle phallus, a video screen showing topless dancers, and two wildly gyrating dancing girls.

Backing the theatrics is a phenomenal ensemble consisting of drummer Tim Arnold, bassist Dan Schmid, James Brown-influenced guitarist James Gossard, and a killing horn section of Dana Hiteman, James Phillips and Brooks (Cracker) Brown. Handling all lead vocals is the one-of-a-kind Perry, a charismatic performer, great dancer and self described "show off."

The band plays all originals, moving effortlessly between deep funk, dixieland influenced blues and hard rockin' swing. The combination of an excellent rhythm section on the bottom with excellent horn work on top makes for a surprisingly big sound. Add the most audacious and creative front man in town and the Cherrypoppin' are a must see. They'll be at the WOW Hall some time in May performing with Portland's Slack.