Rockers of a certain age have Beatles in their DNA

The Smug Brothers are (from left) Marc Betts, Kyle Melton, Darryl Robbins, Don Thrasher (a regular DDN freelance contributor) and Jason Short.

Contributed photo The Smug Brothers are (from left) Marc Betts, Kyle Melton, Darryl Robbins, Don Thrasher (a regular DDN freelance contributor) and Jason Short.

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By Andy Sedlak, Contributing Writer 3:57 PM Thursday, February 4, 2010

In rock music, age is often labeled a liability.

Some around town didn’t get the memo.

This Saturday, the Motel Beds and the Smug Brothers will perform at Blind Bob’s, but rather than relive their glory days, they’ll be celebrating the release of new music.

“The world only seems like it revolves around 15-year-olds,” said Motel Beds guitarist Darryl Robbins. “It actually doesn’t.”

Robbins, 36, said the average age of his bandmates is 30. So while they’re not on par with the ever-touring 68-year-old that is Bob Dylan, age is still on their minds.

It’s also in their music. Both the Motel Beds and the Smug Brothers are groups comprised of Midwestern Beatlemaniacs. When Robbins and Smug Brothers frontman Kyle Melton are asked to describe their style of music, they’ll often just name-drop the Beatles.

“That stuff is DNA for me at this point,” Melton said with a laugh. “If you aren’t holding yourself up to the highest standard then what’s the point?”

Melton and the Smug Brothers’ new CD is called “Stock Romeo.” Like early Mop Top songs, these new tunes get straight to the point without frills or padding.

“I definitely love atmosphere, but catchy hooks is what it’s all about to me,” the songwriter said. “I want to trim everything down to its most basic elements.”

The Motel Beds’ disc is called “Moondazed.” The CD was modestly recorded, and the album’s concept was never premeditated.

“There were no concrete plans,” Robbins said of the CD’s creation. “It’s essentially British pop.”

John Gassett and Toads and Mice will also appear on Saturday’s bill.

“Come on out and give us your money,” Robbins said with his tongue planted firmly in cheek. “We’re rapidly aging and not young anymore.”

How to go

What: The Motel Beds, Smug Brothers, John Gassett, Toads and Mice

Where: Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St., Dayton

When: 9 p.m.

Cover: $5

More info: www.blindbobs.com

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