The Exploited and Total Chaos at the Mystic Theatre
Here we are once again at our local venue, the Mystic Theatre in Petaluma, California, on February 23rd.
I’ve always appreciated the authenticity, old-world charm, and hospitality of this venue, right on my doorstep. It never fails to deliver a great night—friendly crowds, professional staff, and an overall welcoming atmosphere make for an enjoyable experience, no matter the band.
Irish Rob. of the Exploited - ©John Greewood
Tonight, my partner Faeemi and I decided to explore a new gem connected to this venue—McNears, the restaurant next door that operates in partnership with the Mystic Theatre. It’s the perfect pre-show hangout, offering good grub, cold beer, and a comfy seat while you watch the line outside grow. We both highly recommend the fish & chips.
Chema Zurita and Sean Smash of Total Chaos - ©John Greenwood
Tonight’s double billing? Total Chaos, followed by UK punk veterans The Exploited.
Total Chaos brings a high-energy set, with frontman Rob Chaos cutting an imposing figure, his shock-headed hair seemingly defying gravity. You have to wonder just how much time, effort, and anti-gravity-defying substances go into maintaining that electric look. Rob shared a story about getting pulled over by the California Highway Patrol about 60 miles out of town on their way to the gig—bonding with the crowd over a shared understanding of CHP’s reputation in the area.
Clema Zurita of Total Chaos - ©JohnGreenwood
The band itself is tight, delivering a hard-hitting performance. Bass player Chema Zurita, with his striking split mohawk, brings buckets of energy and stage presence, and the whole band fires on all cylinders as they tear through their set.
Clema Zurita of Total Chaos - ©JohnGreenwood
Then, it’s time for a true punk veteran. It’s wild to think of Wattie Buchan as an elder statesman of the genre, considering how he first exploded onto the scene in the late '70s and early '80s. But here he is—manic stares, grimaces, and all—leading The Exploited onto the stage.
Credit where it’s due: Wattie has been through the wringer health-wise, surviving multiple heart issues, including a heart attack at Rebellion Festival just before The Exploited were set to take the stage. Not only did he recover, but he came back swinging after a quadruple heart bypass. His tenacity, grit, and unwavering dedication to punk rock are nothing short of remarkable.
Steve Campbell of the Exploited - ©John Greenwwod
The Exploited deliver a blistering set, and the Scottish contingent in the crowd is out in full force tonight, proving that support for Wattie crosses oceans. At one point, someone in the audience shouts something unintelligible, prompting a bit of banter between songs. Wattie, with his thick Scottish accent, plays up the irony by pretending not to understand them. Maybe the heckler was Scottish too? Now that would be a laugh.
Irish Rob. of the Exploited - ©John Greewood
The set kicks off with "Let’s Start a War" and barrels through a selection of Exploited classics. No mid-set beer breaks, no stepping offstage to tease an encore—just straight into "Sex & Violence," "Punks Not Dead," and "Was It Me," in that order. So if you saw a setlist photo floating around, ignore it—they changed the encore lineup on the fly.
All in all, an unforgettable night with a true punk rock legend still going strong. If you haven’t seen The Exploited live, get off your ass and do it. Their tour schedule is relentless, so no excuses.
