If you’re a law student interested in the entertainment biz, I have an awesome case study for you: How is it that two bands with completely different members can call themselves L.A. Guns and tour and record simultaneously? I have no fucking clue and, sadly, the lineup changes that caused this are too convoluted to cram into this blurb. But that’s what lawyers are good for—making sense of nonsense. However, you L.A. Guns fans out there have a decision to make: Do you spend money tonight to see original singer Phil Lewis’ version of the band as he celebrates 20 years of kick-ass cock & roll? Or take a chance that founder and iconic guitarist Tracii Guns’ version might blow through town on an entirely different 20th anniversary tour later this year? I’m not steeped enough in L.A. Guns politics to know if fans chose sides, or if they are just happy to have double the Guns. Lewis, however, has expressed that his version of the band—which features longtime drummer Steve Riley—is superior to Tracii’s (which, according to Lewis, is made up of “leeches” that are just using Tracii). But…the band is Tracii Guns’ namesake and he is, inarguably, one of the most talented guitarists of his kind. Sigh. Then again, Cocked & Loaded is one of the greatest hard rock albums of all time and this particular show promises Lewis will be “singing all the hits.” But honestly, dudes, having two different versions of the same band can’t be good for either Lewis or Guns…or the fans!. So, I say one of you (I don’t care which) cut the shit and sort this out the American way: Sue each other!

Sat., Jan. 31, 8 p.m., 2009