by Lori Kozlowski

Affectionately named after their fiery frontwoman, Milka puts on a show that makes you want to move. The energy from Milka herself is a harder-edged Gwen Stefani circa 1994, Shakira, and Metallica’s James Hetfield in one little package. She can scream, she can harmonize, and she can shake her hips.

On April 20, the band played L.A.'s Whisky a Go Go, showing off musical talent in songs like: "Addicted 2U" and "El Nino" from their two CDs — The Risk, and Fire in the Sky. Citing influences from The Melvins to Metallica, their sound is hard rock, acoustic electric guitars, and a deep drum base that keeps everything in line. Underneath it all there is also some layer of the erotic - synchronizing her arms with syncopated beats, Milka dances enough for the entire band. The depth of her voice ranges from guttural to haunting.

Hailing from Orlando, Florida, Milka openly asks the crowd if they can speak Spanish, jokes about her hair, and converses with her bandmates mid-set.

Energy-filled and edgy, they will be playing California venues through the end of April. You can find more tour dates and sample songs at www.milkarocks.com.