Slippy Larue expertly opens the Jazzhaus for Mouth's old favorites made new + Previews

Slippy Larue, of Columbia, Missouri came out to the Jazzhaus to open for Mouth, fusing synthesizers, keys, drums and guitar to blast the small venue with fantastic jams. The band's hypnotic trance tunes and stirring rhythms filled the Jazzhaus with energy. Slippy Larue demonstrates a kind of dedicated practice and brilliant music choreography that is hard to find anywhere. It was a perfect opening act for Mouth.

The only down side to the opener's performance was the crowd. There wasn't one. People showed up late to the bar and missed out on an epic performance, but the folks that had come early to appreciate the great music got a stunning set from the opener. Hopefully Slippy Larue will return and see a bigger crowd next time!

But aside from a slow start, the night went very well. Mouth came to the stage with some familiar, great songs, that have been tweaked, improved and over-hauled to give the crowd a set of exciting, intense songs that are definitely classic Mouth, but bigger and better than ever. Songs like Virtuality and Worm sounded like they had gotten a jolt of electricity in them, giving the familiar songs a new vibe.

Fortunately for Mouth, the crowd had finally come out in time for them, and the dance floor was packed, seats all filled and the bar was alive. The party didn't stop until after two encore songs, much to the delight of the grateful audience. Mouth knows how to treat their fans.

Now for Previews:

Tonight, Saturday, Cicada Rhythm is putting on a show at the Granada, just $5 for adrenaline-pumping electronic dance music. Lincoln, Nebraska's Somasphere is headlining with Sam Krause, and DJason. This should be a great show, probably packed, considering how low the price is and how fantastic the music will be!

Then, Tuesday, back at the Granada, The Faint will be playing their famous electronic pop rock for $15. If you're into that kinda thing, this'll probably be a pretty great show. It's always exciting when big acts come to town!

FUTURE SHOCK electrocutes the Jazzhaus with Rocket Science + Previews

The Floozies' side-project, FUTURE SHOCK, gave the Jazzhaus the most intense show in months. The small venue has never been so packed with so many party people getting down to a fantastic set of funk. The crowd was so big that dancers were filling the walkways between tables leading up to the dance floor. The porch was overflowing with smokers, and the bar was swamped with people trying to get a drink. All for good reason, this show was too epic to miss.

The night started at 10 p.m. when Rocket Science opened up with a variety of remixes of some top dance tunes. The dynamic duo puts out great electronic beats, with bass-heavy mixes on the synthesizer and dancing rhythms from the drums. The crowd hadn't entirely shown up to appreciate the music yet, but it was a chill atmosphere for the people who were already hanging out.

The bar had filled up considerably by the time Matt and Mark Hill, the brothers who are The Floozies took the stage with the other members of FUTURE SHOCK, - Pat Adams on a second set of drums, Chris Shaw on bass and the legendary Gravy playing saxophone and keys. Everyone already familiar with this funky tribute to Herbie Hancock was pumped to hear more.

Before the first set was finished the dance floor was jammed with party animals getting groovy. The people hanging out were all so friendly and cool, it was a party of good vibes all around. The band has an impressive list of funky tunes that go smoothly from one to the next. Their songs have a familiar, well-practiced feel to them, like you're listening to an album of quintessential soulful funk. The party didn't stop until last call, and even then there were after-parties to keep raging at.

Between the great bands putting out awesome tunes, and the lovely, happy crowd, this was one of the best nights at the Jazzhaus in recent history. Don't miss FUTURE SHOCK next time!

Now For Previews:

Tonight Rocket Science is playing again, this time at the Bottleneck, opening for J. Wail. The one-man-act of J. Wail sounds like funky club music to create a scene rarely found in Kansas. J. Wail is stopping in Lawrence on his way from his home in Denver, Colorado to tour the east coast. This electronic show is sure to be a good time, so be there or be square.

Tuesday, the 13th, Minus the Bear, one of the best bands indie rock as to offer, will be at the Granada at 9 p.m. for $16-18 according to Lawrence.com. Listening to their album, these guys have a funky, experimental edge to their rock that makes it catchy and different, in a good way. This progressive indie rock group from Seattle is a rising star in the music scene, so it might be exciting to be able to say you saw them live, before they make it big and tickets start costing an arm and a leg.

Friday the 16th, Mouth will be playing at the Jazzhaus with Slippy Larue. Mouth always plays a great show, and the Jazzhaus is one of their favorite venues. This is a good time guaranteed.

Fourth of July weekend previews

This Fourth of July weekend is sure to be full of exciting events in Lawrence. This is just a few of the great shows scheduled for this weekend, for music lovers looking for a good time during the holiday.

Friday night Electric Theory will be playing with openers The Hunted, and Sobriquet. Electric Theory will be featuring a special guest: Billy Wassung of Sonic Sutra. Electric Theory is a local electronic group that plays fun, energetic, irresistibly rhythmic dance beats. The complex intricacies of this group are inspiring and always get the party started. Come to the Jackpot at 10 p.m. to check this show out. It's $5 for 21+ and $7 if you're under 21. This will definitely be a great time.

Saturday, Split Lip Rayfield will be playing an early show on the outside patio of the Replay Lounge, along with The Grisly Hand. This blend of bluegrass and soul will be going on from 6 to 9 p.m. for somewhere between $5-10.
Then, Ras Neville and the Kingstonians will be jamming at the Jazzhaus. You can enjoy some great live Reggae at an awesome, intimate venue, for just $4! That's crazy!

Sunday, if you're not too busy setting off small explosives while getting intoxicated, local rock band Fourth of July will be playing on the holiday that is their namesake at the Replay Lounge, for just $2. The self-described "most patriotic band in Lawrence" is a 5-piece outfit that has years of experience, naturally they should play a great show today of all days.

There is plenty of fun to have all weekend and beyond, so be safe you crazy kids!

The Wailers stir up the Granada then The Big Lebowski packs Liberty Hall + Previews

Last Friday night Lawrence was in for a very special treat, as the original Wailers, Bob Marley's band, played at the Granada. A mob of adoring reggae fans packed the venue from the foot of the stage to the back of the balcony. The Wailers played classic hits everyone loves as well as newer pieces the band has written recently, delivering a flawless set.

Folks from all walks of life, young and old from Lawrence and all around were glad to pay only $20, when the Wailers often go for as much as $35 in other cities. The Granada was a great venue for this show because it accommodated a big crowd while still letting the band's sound rock your world. It was so loud that people standing in the walled-off entrance lobby could completely enjoy the music while getting a drink.

The Wailers band members have changed since the days of Bob Marley, but they still have a fiercely passionate, talented lineup of musicians that keeps the fantastic reggae sound that made the band famous. With great vocals, lead and rhythm guitars, bass, two guys with keys, and a manic drummer, the range of sound, harmonies and intricate combination of beats made the songs flow seamlessly.

Anyone who missed the show needs to make sure they catch the Wailers, the next chance they get.

This show kicked off the weekend just right before another great event for fun-lovers came on Saturday night.

The Big Lebowski was played at Liberty Hall on Saturday night for $5. There were also White Russians on sale for true fans who liked to drink along with The Dude. The show was surprisingly popular and the large venue filled up. Some folks were more into the movie than others, some a little too into it.

This cult-classic film has spawned Big Lebowski Festivals, and movie parties all around the country, with no sign of stopping. Everyone should see this movie and if you have the chance, watch it with friends. It might technically be a movie, but The Big Lebowski is more like a party favor than a film.

Now For Previews:

Tomorrow night, Wednesday, Mouth will be playing with Zoogma, and Papadosio at 9 p.m. at the Bottleneck. Zoogma caught this writer's attention when they played at Wakarusa. Mouth is one of the best funk bands in Lawrence, consistently putting on fun shows that turn out to be the hippest parties around.

If you don't get enough funk tomorrow night, Thursday, Fuzz Nasty will be filling the Jazzhaus with soulful dance-tunes at 10 p.m. for $4.

Stay tuned for more reviews and previews! And stay classy, Lawrence.

Summer Camp Music Festival rocks out for 15,000+ music lovers

Summer Camp Music Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary with an epic lineup of fantastic bands for 4 days of great music on 5 different stages. With a crowd almost half-again as large as ever before (15,000), the festival was a huge undertaking, with three big stages, as well as two smaller stages outdoors for the massive audience to gather in front of all day, every day.

The event was held at Three Sister's Park in Chillicothe, Illinois. The park was a perfect setting for the music, with lots of open space for two or three bands to play simultaneously without overwhelming each other. At the entrance, campers were put through a search, before being allowed to move their things from the parking lot to the campground. There, another stage was set up where bands could play to keep the line entertained. Although there was already a long line for the tickets, even the Will Call tickets, the line for the campers moving their stuff was much longer, something that could only be avoided if you were sleeping in your car, and had a press pass, but one could only carry what fitted in one's cargo pants then.

The crowd was a great mix of friendly folks from all around the country. License plates from Indiana, Michigan, New York and California demonstrated this coming-together of fun loving music enthusiasts. Every band's set was accompanied by talented jugglers, fire poi-swinging acrobats, and hula-hooping girls, as well as mobs of dancing, drinking party people. Strangers from every walk of life randomly greeted each other, making new friends all the time. But the reason for all this cheerful socializing was the music, which was the very best part of this temporary paradise.

The first great show was Thursday night, when Backyard Tire Fire got the crowd going with their country-laced rock 'n roll. The Bloomington based alt-country trio puts on a fun show with rockin' tunes that warmed up the fans for their first night of fun.

Next came Family Groove Company, who played groovy funk and jazz with a style inspired by Steely Dan as well as The Beatles. The audience really perked up for this set, which took the dancing and good vibes to a higher level.

The last of the act playing on the big stage Thursday night was Cornmeal, one of the greatest bluegrass/folk bands in the country. The fast tempo and intricate harmonies make this band's songs irresistibly dance-able. Everyone gets down and lets loose when Cornmeal takes the stage, and this show was one of the best this reviewer has ever seen. Thursday night was just the beginning but the campground was already alive with energy after the band finished at 11 p.m.

Summer Camp Music Festival has a red barn where the "Late Night Shows" were held each night. Unfortunately most of the nights these "Late Night Shows" cost an extra $25 or so and were sold separately from regular tickets to the festival. The nights were all sold out before the festival began. It doesn't really make sense to have to pay extra to see some of the music, after paying over a hundred dollars to see the vast majority of those bands already. Other music festivals, like Wakarusa, have music late at night, without asking their guests for another penny. But with a big, open room to hold specific shows in, it is easy for the Summer Camp staff to use this venue as a second show to sell. The silver lining to this part of Summer Camp was that Thursday nights' show was free.
The "Late Night Show" at the red barn Thursday night started with The Macpodz who played competent funky jazz, that leaned toward the electronic dance party to come.

Second in the red barn was Dumpstaphunk, getting into some electronic jams. As the second band's set progressed the crowd's energy rose, and the red barn got packed.

To finish the night, Future Rock got crazy with dancy tehcno. This last set was as wild and pulsing as a rave. The impressive electronica was so powerful it blew away the already raging crowd.

The second night of Summer Camp really got exciting when Sound Tribe Sector 9 started their set at the second-largest stage. After a good rendition of Puma, STS9 went on to mess up one of their songs, before playing a fantastic version of Aimlessly. They also did a good job with Beyond Right Now, and Shock Doctrine. The set started the night off right, but they've played better. Odds are STS9 saved their best bass-heavy dance beats for their set in the red barns' "Late Night Show."

After Sound Tribe, Yonder Mountain String Band had just started their set at the biggest stage, over a low hill. The already fantastic bluegrass act was joined by a second banjo player, Danny Barnes, who really rocked out with the band for a couple of songs.

Before Yonder was even finished, another great act was on the stage STS9 had previously been on. Umphrey's McGee jammed loud and hard with funky bass and drums, accompanied by haunting psychedelic guitar riffs. However, this reviewer had to leave this set early to catch the next fantastic show.

Bassnectar finished off the electronic dancing for the night with a great set of hard, rhythmic bass beats. The songs Bassnectar has mixed together range in style from gangster rap, hip-hop to electric tribal techno, from nostalgic references to psychedelic hypnotic harmonics. This was the best show of the night, and possibly the entire festival.

Besides these expert performances there were dozens of other bands playing earlier, later, and at the same time as the above-mentioned sets. All music lovers should keep an eye out for these bands when they come around these parts, and be sure to save up some money to make it to Summer Camp next year!

Next Festival: Wakarusa!!!

Summer Camp Music Festival's 10th Anniversary; four days of five stages playing great music

Festival season is starting off with a bang; the week after Festy Fest, Summer Camp Music Festival will rock your socks off at Chillicothe, Illinois. This epic music festival will start on Thursday, May 27th with the Pre-Party and go all the way through Sunday the 30th.

From five, yes, Five stages, a huge variety of fantastic bands will play simultaneously and in shifts, so there will constantly be one, two or three different shows going at the same time, with bands scheduled to start on one stage immediately as another band's set ends.

Even after the main stages are closed down, a late night show will be held, including a rave, as well as some big-name bands playing.

Among the countless bands due to play on the various stages, starting early on Thursday, there's a long list of bands this reviewer is thrilled to see. Many of the bands will be playing multiple sets, which will hopefully be different, for dedicated fans who come to both. Headliners moe. and Umphrey's McGee will play three days straight, for example. These are the shows that are at the top of a very long list:

Thursday night Cornmeal will play their first show at 9:30 p.m. and play until 11.
Late that night the Soulshine Vibe Tent will have "Rave to the Grave vs. 217 Mafia"

Friday at 1 p.m. one of the headliners; moe. will play their first set until 2:30 p.m.
Split Lip Rayfield will play their first set from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30.
Cornmeal will be up again from 5:00 p.m. to 6:15.
Immediately as Cornmeal is finished Sound Tribe Sector 9 comes on, playing until 7:15 p.m.
Just when STS9 finishes their set, Yonder Mountain String Band will be coming on at 7:00 p.m., and will play until 8:15 p.m.
Fifteen minutes before Yonder Mountain String Band is done, headliner Umphrey's McGee will begin their first set for the night.
But before Umphrey's McGee takes their break, BOTH Government Mule and Bassnectar will be coming on different stages at 9:00 p.m.
When both of them are done, Umphrey's McGee will be on again at 10:30 p.m. and play until midnight.
At 12:30 a.m. Split Lip Rayfield will come on again for a late night campfire jam, and play until 2:30 a.m.
If you buy an additional ticket to "Late Night in the Red Barn," you can catch The New Mastersounds play from midnight to 12:45 a.m., followed by moe. from 1:15 a.m. to 3:00.

Saturday Slightly Stoopid will start at 5:00 p.m. and play until 6:15.
From 6:00 p.m. Lawrence local rock stars Sonic Sutra will be playing at the same time as Keller Williams, both finish at 7:00. This is a tough call, but it's probably worthwhile to go to either one, or try and see some of both, if the stages aren't too far apart.
Umphrey's McGee will be playing from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15, but this time may be better spent seeing Big Gigantic, if the electric dance jam is more your cup of tea.
Next moe. will be on again, playing at the same time as Pretty Lights, from 8:00 p.m. to 9. This time is better spent at Pretty Lights, since moe. is playing three days, and this will only be their first set of the night.
Umphrey's McGee is up again from 9:00 p.m. to 10:15.
Then it's moe. again from 10:15 p.m. to midnight.
Then, once again if you buy an additional ticket to "Late Night in the Red Barn," you can catch some more fantastic bands. Tonight, Pretty Lights will be playing their second set here from 12:30 a.m. to 1:30. Then STS9 will play from 2:00 a.m. to 3:30.

Sunday the great music starts earlier, with That 1 Guy playing at noon.
Umphrey's McGee is plays 2:00 p.m. to 3:15.
Railroad Earth will start at 2:30 p.m. and finish at 3:45.
The New Mastersounds will play from 4:00 p.m. to 5.
The Avett Brothers are on from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45.
Later that night Eoto will start playing at 7:00 p.m., moe. will start at 6:30. Both will finish at 8.
moe. will come back for at a second set from 9:30 p.m. to 11.
For anyone with money to spare, who hasn't had enough Umphrey's McGee or Eoto, they will play the "Late Night in the Red Barn" show.

Unfortunately this entire adventure will cost $170, plus a camping permit. It's a high price for any music festival, but this is one of the best lineups of artists to be found in the Midwest, and may very well give this year's Wakarusa a run for it's money.

A variety of spectacular concerts start off the month of May

As the days grow longer and the nights get warmer, the calendar becomes completely booked with concerts, sometimes with several great shows going on the same night. On hot nights in Lawrence there's no question that there's something to do. The only real question is, which show, bar, party or festival would you prefer? The first weekend of May is just the start.

Friday, April 30th,

Split Lip Rayfield will be playing their punk style of country bluegrass, rocking hard at the Bottleneck, starting at 9 p.m. According to Lawrence.com it will cost $13. Split Lip Rayfield is one of the greatest bluegrass bands to play in these parts, and can also be seen this summer at Festy Fest, May 22nd, at 11 p.m. The show will start with Red Eye Gravy and The Palpitaters opening.

For more frugal party-goers, the Cosmopolitics will be playing at the Jazzhaus for just $4, jamming out with funky prog-rock that is fun to dance to at an intimate venue where the crowd always gets down. The funk starts at 10 p.m.

And at the very same time The Schwag will be playing the Granada, for just $8-10 according to Lawrence.com. At this price, this show has to be the best deal Friday night, and anyone from the most hardcore Deadheads to a fan of Grateful Dead style jam bands must not miss it! Doors open at 10 p.m.

Saturday, May 1st,

The Spook Lights will be playing a live, recorded show at the record store Love Garden, downtown FOR FREE! The epic, wickedly talented rockabilly, surf rock gods are celebrating the release of their new 7-inch, "Teenage Maniac." They'll be playing from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This should promise to be a terrific performance, since the band is planning to record, and it will be intimate in the record store, so anyone looking for good music for free must be here!

After The Spook Lights are finished, music-lovers will have just enough time to get down to the Jazzhaus in time to catch Majestics Rhythm Revue play funky, poppy rock at 10 p.m. for $4. This local band combines beautiful vocals, saxophone, violin and rock guitars to range its musical style from jazz and blues to funk and pop.

Sunday, May 2nd,

The Bootheel is playing as well as Tyler Gregory at The Replay Lounge from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for just $3! Tyler Gregory's spectacular voice and great one-man-act is an acoustic, folk show that impresses everyone.

Later, 1349, SkeletonWitch, and Lecherous Nocturn will open a hardcore show for the famous metal band Cannibal Corpse. Anyone who is a fan of metal, or has any interest in a band that has influenced a whole generation of the genre, should be there, at least later, for Cannibal Corpse's set. This show is supposed to cost between $17 and $19. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

This is just the first weekend of a new, warm month, with tons of great shows yet to come. Stay tuned for more previews, reviews and more.

3 Son Green, Dirtfoot and Mountain Sprout shake up the Bottleneck

Saturday night promised to be full of excitement when a crowd of eager fans was gathered for the opener, 3 Son Green. The young band of four plays with a talent beyond their years - some still appeared to have X's on their hands - filling the venue with a strong jam of funky, jazzy tunes that got the dance floor shaking. Playing cover songs as well as their own music, 3 Son Green started the night off right, and impressed audience members who came with high expectations for the veterans of Dirtfoot and Mountain Sprout.

It was an odd transition from the poppy, rocking jams of 3 Son Green to the jazzy, folk rock of Dirtfoot, but the crowd went with it with ease, as Dirtfoot got interactive, asking the audience to shout out words to follow the chorus' of different songs. Cans of beans are handed out at every Dirtfoot show, so fans and add their own rhythm to the songs, making everyone feel more involved with the music. As written in past reviews, Dirtfoot puts on an incredible live show, with talent and energy that cannot be beat.

Mountain Sprout came on shortly after Dirtfoot finished, taking up the crowd's energy and rolling it even higher, as they always do. The four bluegrass masters have added a girl with a saw to their band, who gives a haunting extra sound to some of the songs. For a few songs the washboard player from Dirtfoot joined too. Mountain Sprout plays with a passion that only the most hardcore party animals could have. Also written about in past reviews, Mountain Sprout is one of the best bluegrass acts out there, and it's a stroke of great luck that they come all the way from Arkansas to play for us in Lawrence and Kansas City.

It's ridiculous that 3 bands of such great talent can play at a venue like the Bottleneck for just $7. Only in a musical paradise like Lawrence. If only this show had been advertised more, I would have previewed it!

Don't miss them at Festy Fest here in Lawrence; they are scheduled to play the second night, Saturday, May 22nd, at 9:15 p.m. They will also be playing at Wakarusa this summer, along with Dirtfoot - and 3 Son Green, I believe!

That 1 Guy performs magic with music at the Bottleneck

Friday night Lawrence was treated to one of the most spectacular one-man-acts to ever take the stage. The Bottleneck was filled to the brim with fans, jamming the dance floor and packing the bleachers. Everyone was entranced by the bizarre musical styling and actual magic tricks performed by Mike Silverman, a.k.a. That 1 Guy.

The headliner took the stage around 11 p.m., unveiling his 7-foot-tall, home-made musical instrument, the Magic Pipe. All alone, That 1 Guy plays one his strange contraption, rocking out funky, dance-able tunes that range in style from heavy metal to prog rock to jazz. The beats are provided by a foot-pedal-drum That 1 Guy beats as he keeps a fast, intricate rhythm and melody on his other instruments. Among the artists' inventions are the Magic Saw and the Magic Flute, which give different songs completely unique sounds you can't hear anywhere else.

Any normal musician would struggle to handle the Bottleneck alone, but That 1 Guy took on a full house without a moment of hesitation. Musical energy channeled out over the crowd from this single man, filling the bar with sound. Between songs, That 1 Guy performed magic tricks with cards, lights and other tools, breaking up the dances with some laughs.

The crowd was a mix of folks who filled the dance floor so there was barely room to get down to the funky tunes. Aside from a few happy campers most everyone was just staring at That 1 Guy, entranced, for the entirety of the show. Ultimately the audience barely showed That 1 Guy the appreciation he deserved for his work.

As the sole source of entertainment for a packed venue, That 1 Guy played non-stop until 1:15. A slightly early night, but completely understandable considering that it was literally that one guy.

That 1 Guy will be playing at Summer Camp Music Festival and Wakarusa this summer. Check him out any chance you get!

Shpongle raves on a Tuesday night like Europe on a Friday + previews

Everyone in Lawrence looking for something fun to do out on the town on 4/20 was sure to have some fun, since Downtown Lawrence itself was full of fun-lovers partying like it was a Friday. But the best show usually costs the most money, and it's not always worth it, and that was true last night, as Shpongle played at the Granada for $20, a hefty price, for a weeknight DJ show.

The opener Prometheus was mediocre at best. A mix of good quality techno, and terrible, repetitive, juvenile electronica is not what one expects to endure for $20. Not every DJ is a prodigy and even good DJs have bad moments, but Prometheus went on forever, teasing the crowd with gems buried in crap.

According to Shpongle fans, there is usually a whole band, with guitarists, drummers and keyboardists mixing together the pieces of their songs to make each show unique. Apparently most of the band stays in Europe, where the band is most popular. Last night was just a single DJ working the table on the massive stage.

Without anyone allowed to dance or party on stage, it felt like a relatively empty, inactive space for everyone to be facing as they danced. However, Shpongle goes heavy on the ambient side of electronic, and so the performance included visuals projected on a screen above the stage, which the crowd was expected to stare at as they listened to the trippy melodies. Sadly these visuals were far from compelling. Shpongle still uses the same psychedelic native-mask image it's had for years. That same picture mixed with a small handful of other pictures, which flash and blink, turn and kaleidoscope across the screen in simplistic, repetitive motions, is the entirety of the visual entertainment for the hours of techno. Overall the visuals were unoriginal and obnoxious. It's possible that the most inebriated fans could find something entertaining about the static images, but for anyone remotely close to sober, it was just awful. For good visuals in a similar musical setting, try Bassnectar.

When it came to music, Shpongle was the perfect rave DJ. Songs ranged in style from bass-thumping grinders to airy, psychedelic jams. Shpongle's brand of techno includes a great deal of world-music influence. Some songs seem to be borne from a Spanish Flamenco dance or a British anthem.

The crowd danced its heart out, filling the Granada to the brink with writhing, ecstatic bodies. People came out for the show in full rave gear, others completely unprepared. Girls were hula hooping in the alcoves and people on the dance floor swung glowsticks to the rhythms. Unfortunately security was tight, so people could not celebrate the holiday to their heart's content, but it was still a good time for anyone who had pre-partied.

Ultimately, the opening act, and setting were not perfect for a 4/20 celebration, but the music was good, and people had fun, so the show was certainly a success. The one-man act of Shpongle was making his first appearance in Lawrence, but hopefully not his last.


Now for previews:

Friday, April 23rd, That 1 Guy will be playing the Bottleneck for $8. That 1 Guy, Mike Silverman's latest album, "Packs a Wallop!" exemplifies his wicked skill and wide variety of styles based heavily around funk and jam. Songs carry a dance-able beat while sounding reminiscent of Frank Zappa's quirky pieces or Rush's prog rock. His ridiculous one-man-performance promises to be even more impressive in person than on your computer. That 1 Guy uses instruments such as the Magic Pipe, which is a series of tubes, bass strings and electric buttons put together to make a bizarre, original instrument. This is a must-see show. It starts at 9 p.m.

Saturday, April 24th, The Spook Lights will be playing the Replay Lounge for a mere $2! The local psychedelic, surf, rockabilly gods always play a fantastic, energizing show that's too exciting to miss. See past reviews of The Spook Lights. They will be playing along with Bandit Teeth, and Psychedelic Horseshit. The show starts at 10 p.m.

Sunday, April 25th, Pretty Lights is playing Liberty Hall. The show costs about $21, but promises to be a funky, electronic dance party of the highest caliber. Pretty Lights plays at such epic music festivals as Wakarusa and Summer Camp Music Festival. Anyone who likes to get down and boogie, even on a Sunday night, should be there. Doors open at 8 p.m.

L Town Throwdown floods the streets with great bluegrass pouring out of the Granada ALL DAY

Saturday, April 10th the block outside the Granada was drowned in music as over 20 bands performed bluegrass for a mere $10.

How could so many bands play at a single venue? Well it's easy when different bands can play in separate places at the same time, for example, a band was playing outside the Granada, while another played in the entrance lobby. Still more would play in the main chamber of the venue, either on the main stage, in the right alcove next to the bar, or up on the balcony. With so many stages set up, bands could play one after another, without breaks in the music.

But even so, over 20 bands? How much time could any of them play, half a song? Not when the event began at 3 p.m., with bands playing continuously until the headliners, local bluegrass masters Deadman Flats, and national music wizards, Cornmeal, finished the show at 2 p.m.

With separate bracelets for entrance and drinking, audience members could come and go as they pleased. The Throwdown was a family-friendly affair that attracted a huge, diverse crowd of Lawrencians enjoying the gorgeous weather we've had lately.

Among the fantastic acts playing during the day were the up-and-coming sensations of Potbilly, who played on the mainstage around 3:15 for an audience that quickly grew as their music progressed. Josh Inman plays a stirring bass line, and deft jamming skills, while singing with soul. Chris Franzke adds to the vocals to give even more brilliant harmony to their tunes, while melting your brain with his wickedly fast rocking riffs and sharp, skilled bluesy melodies on the guitar and mandolin. Tom Clutter adds to the blend of intricate bluegrass sounds with a banjo, when he isn't giving the songs a heavier dancing beat on the drums. Together the three young artists play a variety of covers and their own work with a slick style and natural talent that is refreshing and fun. Among the dancing, smiling listeners were pretty girls with hula-hoops and the band's growing following of fans.

Later Carrie Nation and the Speakeasy were up on the balcony, playing country americana with a trombone giving their bluegrass instruments a bluesy feel that makes this band especially distinctive. The band played for an increasingly excited crowd, as this all-day-event led to some extreme energy for the early hours of the evening. Carrie Nation and the Speakeasy have a fun, care-free attitude that's exciting to behold.

Finally, to begin the epic end of a long, and wild day, Deadman Flats came on the main stage for a full Granada, playing a fantastic set of classic Deadman hits, rocking out lengthy solos, and shining with a huge stage presence that brought the huge venue together like never before. Experienced Deadman fans gathered together to fill the dance floor with shaking, twisting laughing bodies. Girls filled the back alcoves with hula-hooping. Everything seemed perfect.
And just when it felt like a day full of brilliant bluegrass was over, Cornmeal picked up where Deadman Flats left off.

Cornmeal is one of the best bluegrass bands on the scene today. The band is under-rated compared to their competition, but still widely appreciated for their skill, and unmatched style, however Lawrence has a large and experienced enough base of bluegrass enthusiasts that the town showed the band love like only the best crowd can. The band gives bluegrass a broader, deeper meaning that you've ever imagined before hearing them. With the combined power of a guitar, banjo, upright bass, fiddle and drums, the band creates an ambrosia for the ears like angels playing bluegrass. The sound is so intense, so rolling, changing, moving, it's reminiscent of brilliant metal musicians like early Metallica...only with bluegrass. The band's progressive jams have a quality of growing strength, and relentless energy that sets every listener's heart pounding.
Friends with dozens of Granada shows under their belt declared this show the best show at the Granada before Cornmeal's set was through. The fast, harmonic groove of every song flows unfettered, until just when you think they're finished, then it goes faster and louder. Like the Energizer Bunny, the band just keeps going and going. Every song burns bright, and long like an immortal shooting star. After over 10 years band, the Chicago-based musicians tour constantly, and will be found at Summer Camp Music Festival this May 28-30.

Sonic Sutra dominates the Granada then Mouth busts out at the Jazzhaus

This review is late because it's been such a busy weekend for music in Lawrence. Anyone familiar with the wide range of epic concerts playing the last few nights will understand.

Friday night Sonic Sutra opened for California Voodoo at the Granda, starting the night early, around 9:30 p.m. Sonic Sutra is a local jam band that uses a variety of instruments to put together songs that stream smoothly from one style to another. Every song has a way of moving and progressing like a jazzy, funky, rock jam, taking your ears for a roller-coaster ride. As mentioned in a previous review, the band includes a guitarist, second vocalist adding percussion, keyboard player, bassist, and drummer that combine their skills in their respective sounds to create a strong, explosive harmony. Although Sonic Sutra always promises to be a fun time, this show was something else, like a new level of professional performing had been reached. This was the best Sonic Sutra show this reviewer has seen yet.

The band played an impressive set, going on over an hour, with nonstop jamming. Their songs are so well practiced, intricate, and rhythmic, it's exciting just to feel the progression of each piece, while dancing to the beat.

Sonic Sutra always get the crowd going with their energy and enthusiasm. Every venue, no matter how large, this band always fills the space with a contagious fun vibe that's impossible to ignore. Even in the wide space of the Granada, everyone gathered to the dance floor, people staring in awe from the rails, or getting funky up in front.

With every song, you could feel the crowd getting more excited, strutting their stuff to every funky song, rocking out to every jam, swinging to the jazzy beats. Aside from their own brilliant songs, Sonic Sutra plays fantastic covers. The finale for their set was The Talking Heads' "Psycho Killer", at which point the audience finally lost control, getting down like it was a summer festival.

Having seen what this reviewer came to see, the night was still young when Sonic Sutra finished, and Mouth was already playing at the Jazzhaus.

Although it was a tough act to follow, Mouth met the challenge admirably. The local funky, jazzy, jam band is like a force of musical nature. Mouths has a distinct sound, and a hip, clever quality that's hard to come by whether you're looking at concerts, or on the radio.

Every show is a party, because the drum beats are so fun, the guitar riffs are so groovy and the bass lines are so slick. The band has a list of memorable tunes they play with creativity that makes every show different, but familiar in a good way. With Evan Leitnaker on a second set of percussion instruments, the band had a stronger rhythm, complex, heart-racing beats, and another layer of brilliant talent to give the band even more power.

The show was already in full swing by 11, with the dance floor completely packed, chairs full, and the bar unreachable. Everyone seemed to have a smile on their face, like it was all one grand party of friends. Mouth was opening for Funkotronic, but the night out that starts early sometimes ends early, and this was one of those nights. After waiting to make sure Mouth was really finished with their set, it was time to rest weary legs from a night of funky, jazzy, jamming dance parties at the best shows in town.

Cosmopolitics and Family Groove Company fuse prog rock, jazz and funk at the Bottleneck

Sometimes the best shows are the ones you aren't even planning to go to. Driving downtown to catch a show at the Bottleneck, the hip-hop beats of a DJ at The Replay Lounge carried over the bar's outdoor patio walls, while Tyler Gregory's minstrel vocals echoed down from where he was busking near a street corner. Both were tempting, but ultimately the Bottleneck won, and as always it was a fantastic night out with friends.

The Cosmopolitics opened up with a long set, playing songs ranging from progressive rock to fusion jazz, with a bit of funk too. The band's progressive rock songs ringing of Frank Zappa, one song sounded reminiscent of John the Fisherman by Primus; there was definitely a strong Metal tone to some of the songs. Other tunes took a fusion-jazz groove that was both rockin' and smooth. But every song has a little of everything including a touch of funk that makes you wish you could jump up and dance. However, the band's complex rhythms and melodies are not to be trifled with.

The small crowd at the Bottleneck didn't dare try to find a beat to swing to even after The Cosmopolitics had been on stage for an hour. The band demonstrated a great understanding of unconventional beats and rhythms that are impressive, but heavy on the ears. Frank Zappa fans may have been excited to spasm and head-bang to the songs, but most of the crowd couldn't really get into it. Maybe if the audience were larger and more excited the band would have gotten a better reception. Perhaps it was because it was night before Easter Sunday and many students had gone home for the night - before waking to the creeping grumbles of Zombie Jesus - but the Bottleneck was surprisingly empty until quite late - for a Friday night. It was unfortunate how little energy the crowd had, but The Cosmopolitics were coming on very strong.

Aside from the band's intense skill and intricate styling, they had the energy of experienced musicians, giving the crowd its money's worth and then some. According to friends who had been at the Bottleneck from the start, the band began playing at 10, and they rocked on continuously until 11:30. The local band gave the Bottleneck a grade A performance, worthy of headlining a show with a more energetic crowd.

After a short break, Family Groove Company took the stage and immediately collected an even bigger crowd, filling the open gaps on the dance floor. In terms of skill Family Groove Company picked up right were the Cosmopolitics left off, rocking out with a practiced repertoire. Some songs leaped from one jamming beat and rhythm to something completely different, but equally brilliant so suddenly, yet smoothly, the crowd would hoot and cheer in appreciation before finding the new groove to dance to. The band's set was accompanied by a light show, using fog-machines, colorful, flashing, rotating lights and twisting, psychedelic kaleidoscope images, giving the venue a little more ambiance than the average show.

Family Groove Company's blend of jam, funk and jazz gripped the audience's attention from the start, drawing people out of their shells to dance. The band's guitarist, keyboardist, bassist and drummer all contributed integral parts to every song with both instruments and vocals that seemed to evoke a fire in the spirit of every audience member getting down on the dance floor.

From strong funk beats to smooth jazz jams, Family Groove Company kept up a fast paced, upbeat vibe that made the show a party. Cool folks already energized by The Cosmopolitics danced together front and center with tardy-party people who came ready to rage it, making the dance floor a funky hot-spot under the fog and lights. From 11:45 to 1:45 Family Groove Company played their hearts out, a show that was as awesomely fun as it was impressive.

Hailing from Chicago, Family Groove Company has a long list of shows scheduled across the Midwest. Most friends at the show said they came because they saw the band at Wakarusa in Lawrence a few years ago, or a show in town some time ago. One can only hope they will be back again soon!

The Spook Lights get frisky at The Replay Lounge

The Spook Lights are one of the most talented, hardcore rock-n-roll bands to ever play a show, leading Lawrence in it's brilliant local music scene. The band always gathers an appreciative crowd, and plays every set with a heart-pounding energy and intricate skill that is amazing to behold.

April Fool's Day, The Spook Lights played to a relatively packed - but not uncomfortably jammed- crowd at The Replay Lounge at midnight, for $3 (Lawrence.com isn't always 100% accurate, but it was definitely worth the extra buck). While a DJ was putting on dancing tunes in the outdoor part of the venue, the band played indoors, gathering a crowd as soon as they started their sound check.

A friend came along to the show to get her first Spook Lights experience. She immediately loved the surf guitarist, Curvacia Vavoom's signature pouf - or beehive hairdo, "It's way better than Snooki's!" and the lead singer, Scary Manilow's drag-queen outfit. Accompanying the four band members was a man wearing only black leather pants, white leather boots, and a high-cut fishnet shirt, dancing wildly at the corner of the stage. The comically disturbing dancing man led the crowd to shake and swing to the punk-surfer rock tunes, but really, it was the band's passion and wicked style that fed the crowd the energy to rock out.

As a fan of the punk and rockabilly music scene in her hometown of Washington D.C., Lydia was excited to see so many pierced and tattooed punk-rockers in the crowd. At one point she said something to the effect of "I didn't know there were so many punks in Lawrence." Indeed, the badass fans of The Spook Lights were out in full force to support the band. The crowd was a grateful bunch, but the audience wasn't lively enough for how exciting and fun the band was.

Playing favorite songs like Teenage Maniac and Scarum Harum, The Spook Lights made a rockabilly punk party out of The Replay Lounge. The guitarists' harmonic melodies intertwine to the fast, dancing drum beats, giving the vocals room to twist and shout, creating something exotic and hypnotic. The Spook Lights happily played, filling the bar with a psychedelic, surreal vibe only dreamed of in the movies. There's something about that surf-rock/horror-punk blend that is so clever and pleasing to the ear that The Spook Lights are virtually addictive, because they have no substitute and nothing compares.

Rockabilly bands give Lawrence two nights to boogie

Coincidence or fate, my favorite local Rockabilly band, The Spook Lights, are playing The Replay Lounge April 1st with Mouth Breathers, then a Kansas City Rockabilly group, The Rumblejetts, playing the Jazzhaus the following night!

For anyone not entirely familiar with Rockabilly, it's a genre that is sadly under-appreciated, surviving as a subculture far and wide, but rarely found in Lawrence. The style of music began as late as the 1950s, as a mix of rock and country music, influenced by western swing, rhythm and blues, boogie woogie, and other oldies that you think of when you think of 1950s rock-n-roll bands. Modern bands like The Spook Lights and The Rumblejetts have no trouble taking the old style and making it their own, with unique spins that make both upcoming shows must-see events for Rockabilly virgins and veterans alike.

The Spook Lights play a hot blend of speed-demon psychedelic surf rock, and strong, heavy rockabilly tunes that are too catchy and energetic not to dance to. Come to their shows prepared to let yourself go wild. Try closing your eyes and you'll get lost in the hypnotizing depths of the swinging guitar riffs, bass and drum beats, key chords and the spine-tingling highs and lows of the vocals . Incorporating an eerie, horror-punk style to some of their songs, The Spook Lights are simply unlike any other band. They have posted fantastic songs to their myspace, be sure to check it out. The Spook Lights will also be playing The Replay Lounge again on May 14th!
Based on what little information can be found on the internet, Mouth Breathers must be a punk rock band from out of town. Any show at The Replay Lounge is sure to be an intimate party, since the indoor and outdoor stages are both small, and encourage the audience to dance right up, front and center. The show is on Thursday, April 1st, starts at 10 p.m. and it's just $2! It'll be a great end to April Fool's Day, you'd be a fool to miss it!

The Rumblejetts play a somewhat more traditional style of Rockabilly. The band describes their sound as rockabilly, roots music, and country. By roots music they can only mean the roots of rock-n-roll, a sound their band has a knack for basing most of their myspace songs on. But this trio's raunchy, swing-dancing jams hold a party-animal energy that would make any old 50s boogie woogie band blush. Without a doubt this show will get crazy, especially in the dark, alcohol-lubed close-quarters of the Jazzhaus. The band has a long list of shows lined up in nearby Merriam and Kansas City, but it's exciting to have a chance to see them at one of the best venues in town, with friends, for a small cover fee.
Sun Rising is playing with The Rumblejetts, but because of their easily-misleading name, or lack of fame, they are difficult to learn about on the internet. The bands start playing at 10 p.m. Friday night, for $4.

Whether you're an old-school Rockabilly addict, or new to the scene, both these shows promise to rock your world and will kick off the month of April right. Hope to see you there!

Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band jams out at the Bottleneck

There's no show that's more fun to talk about than Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band, purely because of the band name. But more importantly, Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band busts out excellent funky tunes that everyone can get down to with ceaseless energy and limitless, jam-style skills. Even familiar songs are different as different members of the band solo and jam to the other parts

The lead singer and bassist is the strong, foundation, or nucleus of the tightly-bound, organic 8-piece funk band from Asheville, North Carolina. Beside him the lead guitarist rocks out funky melodies on an electric guitar, and a fellow with a trombone and bongos chime in with one or the other instrument on every song. A saxophonist give the funk it's jazzy side, and behind them a lady on keyboards works synthy harmonies, complimenting the rockin' beats the drummer drills out.

Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band played at Spookstock this last October at Camp Zoe, outside of Salem, Missouri. There, the band dressed in outlandish outfits, like a cross between a Halloween costume and a 70's funk band satire. But when the band came on stage at the Bottleneck last night the lead singer/bassist still wore the same bat wings on his back, and the lead guitarist smiled down on the crowd through over-sized sunglasses, under a black fur wig/hat? And it became apparent that they weren't wearing costumes at Spookstock, but that's just how these guys roll.

The crowd, mostly the younger regulars at the shows the Bottleneck so regularly puts on, like bands that Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band would play alongside. However, even with the young energy that lasted the band's extensive set, from 11 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., the crowd never completely let go, and got down to the songs the way the music demanded. Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band puts on a show that's so dance-happy, even a completely sober crowd would have to rock out. But really, the audience maintained a hesitant distance from full throttle. Some girls had hula hoops to the right of the crowd and a couple of guys were twirling poi on the left. But for the most part, the band did not get the reciprocated energy they deserved.

Yo Mama's Big Fat Booty Band will be playing at Wakarusa this summer, in The Arkansas Ozark National Forest, June 4th.

Electronic Theory, Seedlove and Mouth get their funk on at the Granada

It seems odd that there would be such great shows on a Monday and Tuesday night, but that's Lawrence for you. The music scene here is astounding. A friend's band, Electronic Theory, and two other, more established local bands, Seedlove and Mouth were throwing down at the Granada for a mere $3!

The cheap cost of admission was just part of what made this night at the Granada special. Most beer draws at the bar were $2.50. The venue is in the midst of some construction, apparently. So, instead of having the bands up on the huge stage; speakers were set up on either side of the right "balcony" a sort of railed-off alcove to the side of the bar and the sound control station. From there, the band played out over the crowd situated between them and the bar. With stairs between the band and the fans, it felt much more intimate than any show I've seen at the Granada.

Electronic Theory started the night with some fun, dancing electronic beats. The drummer keeps up an energetic rhythm that makes it impossible to stand still. On top of that the other band member played on synthesizers, keys and an electric guitar, churning out complex, electronica reminiscent of Sound Tribe. The crowd wasn't at full force yet, so a lot of people missed out, and the band didn't get the applause they deserved.

After a set that was so brilliant it felt too short, the duo left the stage, so Seedlove could start setting up. This took a short while because it's a much bigger band. Seedlove combines a jazzy bass saxophone, with reggae-styling, funky, electronic guitars and bass, backed up by drums and a second percussionist. The combined power of talented musicians on all these instruments is a sound of excellent dancing jazz.

Finally Mouth came on around 12, playing a set that was brilliant, covering most of their best songs, which is a wide range of sounds. The bassist, guitarist and drummer have a practiced harmony that I'm fairly sure I've described in past reviews, but I'll do my best to describe them again. The bassist shows an understanding of his instrument that an aspiring bassist cannot help but admire. Combined with the electric guitar, the two produce complimenting jazzy, funky, jam melodies and rhythms. The drummer rocks out with stirring beats and inspiring rhythms that make every song irresistibly dance-able.

When the crowd was already excited to the point of a dance party, my friend Evan Leitnaker joined the band with percussion that gave the songs an extra rhythm, like another layer to the jam. Later a rapping DJ named Phantom stepped up to the stage and sang for a song, getting the crowd to wave and holler along.

Between the intimate set-up at the normally wide-open venue, the young, energetic crowd, and the band's slick, fun sets; the show felt more like a party than a concert. All three bands performed remarkably, for a crowd that wasn't as large as they deserved, but a great party for a Tuesday night.

Trampled by Turtles stomps on the Bottleneck

The Bottleneck has a display showing off the talented bands of all genres that have played the venue. If talent and fame mean anything, Trampled by Turtles has earned a place on the wall. But if a crowd's satisfaction is part of the measurement, Trampled by Turtles should go right to the top.

The folk, bluegrass band from Duluth, Minnesota filled the Bottleneck with an adoring crowd that could barely keep its volume to a dull roar. We were just having too much fun! The five-piece band played nonstop from 11 to 1:30, with a collective harmony most jam bands could only dream of. Trampled by Turtles impressed with their group's brilliant performance and stage presence.

From left to right, the band members sat in a line, with the man with the largest beard on the left, with their facial hair progressively diminishing to the clean-shaven guy on the right, which I thought was a weird coincidence. Or maybe I'm just weird for noticing that.

The mandolin, violin, banjo, guitar and acoustic bass guitar all added their own voices to every song with different melodies, beats and rhythms, that come together in a delicious mix like some epic home-skillet meal. Every song held its own as a brilliant piece of dance-able, party tune. Aside from the slow song the band started their encore with, the crowd could never stop its jig once the music began. Essentially there was nothing lacking, missing, or unfulfilled about the concert. It was pure folk, bluegrass heaven.

Although the crowd included a good dose of younger bluegrass enthusiasts (my crew, and associates), there were also a great many adults and older couples in the audience, all drinking, laughing and cheering. The crowd's energy could only be matched by the band itself, which calmly sat, jamming out with heavy bluegrass hits of a particular form, that feels familiar, even if you've never heard it before. As a friend once eloquently put it: "I feel like I've known this song all my life."

The opening acts The Calamity Cubes, and John Henry and the Engine, played with reasonable skill, but for a significantly smaller, less excited audience. Once Trampled by Turtles took the stage, the Bottleneck went from half-empty to half-over-flowing, and the crowd never left until after the encore.

According to a friend, and close follower of the band, Trampled by Turtles usually plays larger venues and sells out shows when they're closer to home in Minnesota. Obviously Lawrence hasn't completely heard of them yet, but they still showed the Bottleneck to be a venue they can fill with happy ears. Hopefully they will play here again soon.

Sound Tribe Sector 9 rages the Pageant in St. Louis

This is prevalent because Sound Tribe plays at least once a year in Lawrence, usually in the Fall. Their show at the Pageant in St. Louis every Spring is something true STS9 fans from all around travel to see. There were even more of my friends there this year, and I hope everyone I know reads this so they'll come next year!

First of all, Sound Tribe Sector 9 is one of my favorite bands of all time. I love STS9. Every show I've seen I had a great time, and I remember them all fondly. But there is sometimes a lot to be desired from their live performances, and I'm not the only one that thinks so. Being extremely familiar with STS9's shows, songs, fans and venues, I'm confident I can write a competent, well-informed review, starting with the Good, then the Bad, then the conclusion. Let's get to it.

Sound Tribe always chooses some great songs for their concerts. Not every song is what one might consider ideal for dancing, but every set includes a variety of drum-thumping party hits, bass-pounding house jams, spacey electronic numbers, and the indescribable STS9 sound that anyone who has seen them live can understand. Among the popular numbers Sound Tribe played last night were Equinox, EHM, and Tooth.

I'm not sure I've ever heard EHM at a concert in person, but if I had, there is no way it was as good as the version STS9 played last night. They rocked out the bass and drums that make this hit so viciously epic, and took the electronic-styling to a whole new level. I basically completely let myself go to this song, and I wasn't the only one. Whatever people's personal preferences may be, among some moderately mellower songs, EHM stood out as the climax of the concert, and with good reason. I will be doing everything in my power to find a recording of that EHM performance.

The crowd was mostly appreciative fans. "Sound Tribe kids" - the youths in flat-billed baseball hats worn at awkward, supposedly fashionable angles, wearing colorful, patterned hoodies - know how to have a good time, and show their love. Everyone familiar with STS9 screamed with joy when each song started, immediately recognizing the intros. A scattering of guys in button-up collars and polo shirts and ladies in their night-club gowns obviously were new, but even they rocked out when the beats got heavy.

The key to having a great experience at an STS9 show (because Sound Tribe shows are always more than just concerts, they're adventures), is having, or finding good company. Going with a whole car full of my friends, and finding more of our crew at the show was a great relief to me. Having a whole posse to dance with means more personal space and a comfort zone, in what is otherwise a butt-to-gut, swimming-against-the-stream, sardine can. But being packed in with other fans, hooting and hollering, waving and dancing is part of the STS9 experience. However, friends make it all much more memorable.

From start to finish Sound Tribe played with passion and energy that is as contagious as it is addictive. The band started at about 10, took a short set break at 11, but...then they only played until 11:30 before leaving the stage...And now we're turning to the bad...

For about ten minutes the crowd patiently clapped and cheered for the encore. Finally the band came back out, took a bow and urged the crowd to keep cheering before they played their first song. The encore was two songs, which slowly built toward their dance-able climaxes. It wasn't exactly the encore I had hoped for, but it was still good. But NO ONE stayed to cheer for a second encore. The band finished 2 songs, and left the stage again, and as one the crowd turned and started cramming together around the doors. At MIDNIGHT!? So early. I literally could not believe it.

Before that, the band had asked for us to cheer more, several times. The first time it seemed like they were just feeling the crowd's energy. The second time Murph waved, he came off as insecure But by the third time they begged, they were starting to look desperate. But whatever.

The Pageant is a large, venue, comparable to Liberty Hall here in Lawrence. But aside from that, this place has nothing good going for it. When you're entering, you're patted down by an old lady, your I.D. and your face are scrutinized by a grumpy looking man, and then another grumpy looking man plants a stamp on your hand. Any outside drinks, even an unopened bottle of water, has to stay outside. Anyone who pauses in the aisles of the venue are ordered to move it or lose it by men in gray t-shirts. The bar is kept in a fenced-off area with guards at the two entrances. Only people stamped as 21 can pass in, and no drinks are allowed out of it, unless the drinker wants to go up to the balcony on the second floor. The roomy upstairs area of rows of theater seats is also reserved for the 21 and older folks.

The band played The Unquestionable Supremacy of Nature, but from early on, I noticed the main melody of the song was missing. Anyone familiar with the song can recognized the tenor voices of keyboard synthesizers whose sound gradually moves from electronic guitar, to synthy keys, to bird-like flutes and more was turned WAY down. The bass, drums, and other percussion played the song as usual, with the remixed variations of a rap song played on queue, but that main part of the song, the part that really MAKES the song, was turned down so much, like, it was being played off of one of the band member's laptops, you could only make out bits of it when the bass, drums, percussion, and other parts were simultaneously silent or at a quiet lull.
I'm definitely not the only one that noticed. The whole crowd appeared to lose their spunk every time the song rang painfully empty, missing that key, lead part.
I would be MORE upset, except that I've seen this happen before, at lots of shows, and heard it in recordings from live performances. I don't know what it is the members of Sound Tribe could possibly be thinking, but I want to write them a letter or something, and see what they have to say for themselves. It feels terrible to complain about my favorite band, but the idea that I am paying good money to hear my favorite band mess up a great song, that I have a much better version of in my ipod in my car, is just too frustrating.

Overall, this concert was even better than some of the shows I've seen at festivals. But it was not the best. The version of EHM, the great crowd, and my great friends are what I'll remember in the long run. But the Pageant isn't really a great venue. And the band totally messed up The Unquestionable Supremacy of Nature, and they came off as rather desperate, demanding we cheer so much, when they stopped playing at midnight... Altogether, a mixed review for a mixed show.

Previews of Monday, both the regular weekly events and some very special concerts, and Friday's coming shows

Having Sunday off work is not all it's cracked up to be. Sure it's great to be able to sleep in after a long day and a late night Saturday, but there's hardly ever anything to do!
So, bored to tears, I checked lawrence.com to see if there would be anything fun to do tomorrow night. And then I remembered, there's always one or two things to do out on the town on Monday nights, and this Monday is better than usual, with some pretty rare shows coming to town too! I wish I had the time and money to see everything. If only I had a fancy press pass, or something I'd hop from venue to venue, and see it all haha

So here's a preview of Monday, March 15:

Monday night is Karaoke night at the Jazzhaus. Karaoke night is usually a great time for friends to go out and be goofy together. The bar doesn't get too crowded, so there's no trouble getting a drink, and finding seats for any size group. The song lists for singing have a good variety of tunes, that almost everyone knows. People take turns either showing off their skills at a song they know a little too well, or making fun of themselves, with their friends cheering them on.
It only costs a dollar to get in, and Boulevard beer is on special.

A newer Monday night weekly gathering is the Mudstomp Mondays, where folk and bluegrass musicians and bands jam together for just two dollars. Each week the show starts at 8 p.m. and ends with a headliner at 11 p.m. The event is hosted by Hank Osterhout of the bluegrass band Deadman Flats, my favorite local bluegrass band. I've been meaning to go, but usually wind up at Karaoke night or someplace else. I'm not sure if this will be the week, but it's good to know it's there.

Meanwhile, there's a special show at the Bottleneck at 8 p.m., but at a higher price. Dirty Little Rabbits, an alternative rock band, is featuring Clown from Slipknot, a hardcore metal rock band. Songs available on their myspace show Dirty Little Rabbits to be a band with clever, wicked guitar, bass and drum harmonics, as well as whip-smart vocals that come together to make an iron-hot alt-rock sound, that's very different, but catchy. The melodies, and lyrics hold a mean, energy that's exciting and addictive. According to Lawrence.com it's between $11-13. It would be worth the extra money, but I'm not sure I'll want to be alone at that show, when I could be with friends somewhere else.

Another Monday night show is at the Replay Lounge for just $2. Spirits of the Red City, and The Photo Atlas are playing folk pop rock. The Replay is a good venue because it's cheap, there's a bar outside for the smokers, and both a stage inside, and outside. Depending on the weather, the bands may be outside. Spirits of the Red City have a nostalgic, folk sound, with pop vocals and drums and classical instrumentals using cello, violas, as well as songs with trumpet, banjo, accordion and ukulele. It's difficult to categorize this band, but their myspace offers some fantastic songs.

The rest of the week, I can't say that I recognize any good shows coming up until Friday.
I will be out of town for a GREAT show in St. Louis Friday night, but for everyone in town, here's what I'd do if I was in Lawrence Friday night:

The Irietions are playing at the Jazzhaus at 10 p.m. for $4. The reggae jam band puts on a fun show. As I recall I reviewed a show of theirs a few weeks ago or so. But if that's not your cup of tea, or you're not 21, there's another great show the same night.

Eagle Scout is opening for Rooftop Vigilantes at the Replay Lounge at 10 p.m. for $2. Rooftop Vigilantes are your classic local-band-making-it-big. The pop-rock quartet started here in Lawrence, but have often been seen playing shows in Kansas City. They've been written about in publications like The Pitch, and show great potential for the future.

I'll be in St. Louis Friday, seeing Sound Tribe Sector 9, one of my favorite bands of all time. I saw them at the Pageant in St. Louis last year, when they came the same time of year. My Dad and Stepmom live there, so I have a place to stay, and several of my friends go each year, which makes the show really great. This year STS9 is playing two sets, Friday and Saturday night. I'll only be going Friday, but several friends are going to Saturday night's show. I hope to write a review of the show soon after I return Saturday night.