Getting stuff stolen sucks. Anyone who’s ever returned to their car only to see a mangled mess of wires where the stereo used to be can attest to that.



Now imagine being a guitarist in a rock band — your whole persona, love life, hairdo and sleep patterns permanently linked to the tools of your trade. Imagine relying on your axe and amps for your very existence.



Imagine getting them stolen. Ty McDonald, unfortunately, knows all about it.



Well, kind of. (Something tells me Ty’s love life and hairdo haven’t suffered.)



Recently, according to McDonald’s brother, The Jet City Fix bassist Justin McDonald, Ty had “20-30 thousand” dollars worth of rock and roll equipment ripped off. For those not good with numbers, that’s a shitload. Whoever the slime-bag is that made off with all that gear no doubt profited heavily from Ty’s loss, and also woke up with substantial back pain. 20-30 thousand dollars worth of gear no doubt required multiple back-breaking trips of thievery.



Personally, I hope the bastard never walks again.



Friday, July 18, The Jet City Fix, along with the Spitting Cobras, Zero Down, and Ultrathin & the Near Death Experience (a fittingly named act featuring Jeff Angell of Post Stardom Depression) will tear down Hell’s Kitchen as part of a benefit to help guitarist Ty in these times of need. While, usually, I prefer shows called “benefits” to support causes like colon cancer or third nipple syndrome, just this once I’ll let it slide. Considering the JCF will be on hand to dole out their Grit City perfect brand of club sized arena rock, the decision is easy.



Getting shit stolen sucks. Fans of rock in Tacoma should step up to lend Ty a helping hand.  This Friday at Hell’s Kitchen will be your chance.



[Hell’s Kitchen, Friday, July 18, 9 p.m., $5, 3829 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, 253.759.6003]