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.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
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.
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.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Fuzzy Nasty debuts at the Jazzhaus while North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue shakes up the Bottleneck
It was a busy Thursday, with friends going to the bars early, after hanging out even earlier. But the night was just getting started when I left Louis' Downtown to go to the Jazzhaus and catch Fuzz Nasty.
The five-piece funky blues band was performing for the first time together on stage, for what was a long, exciting set of blues with funky bass and keyboard solos as well as jazzy saxophone and trumpet parts.
The lead singer, who occasionally busted out a trumpet, had a perfect funky blues voice, reminiscent of James Brown. Beside him was a saxophonist with skills and energy, backed up by an electric guitarist and bassist who worked well with the fast-handed percussionist and the keyboardists' deft harmonics.
Altogether the band sounded well practiced and confident, far from beginners. It's hard to believe last night was their first performance, but it's exciting to think they started so strong.
Still, when several of my friends were calling it a night as early as 11:30, and many more friends were at another show, I couldn't resist the temptation to hop over to the Bottleneck for some hardcore blues-rock.
When I saw North Mississippi Allstars when they played the Granada a year ago last Fall, the band consisted of three, and the crowd, although not quite big enough to fill the large venue, was still big, excited and happy to cheer the band on. Some friends there were among the most appreciative audience members, and together we made sure we had a great time, even in the crowded Bottleneck.
Last night the North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue had a new drummer, and additional guitarists and singers switching places with the lead singer and guitarist. The band, although larger, was now on a smaller stage, playing at a smaller venue. The Bottleneck was virtually packed, but sadly the crowd filling the dance floor was over 50% older couples, too tired and calm to dance to the energetic blues rock. Those trying to get down to the jams had trouble finding space, and other people to dance with. But with enough drinks, it was hard to resist the beats.
North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue may be larger than before, but the core of the band, the lead singer/guitarist and the bassist are what make it powerful. A stronger harmony and steadier body of music behind the rocking, funky solos and jams only makes the band better. However, the crowd was clearly not appreciative of the great band's fantastic performance.
After playing from about 10 until 12:30, the band stopped, slowly taking a drink before pretending to put away their equipment. Sadly, the crowd of elderly folks was not familiar with the cat-and-mouse game in-which the band stops playing well before the bars close, so the crowd can request an encore that the band will be allowed to deliver. As soon as the final song finished, and the crowd gave a brief applause, the dance floor emptied abruptly, everyone making a bee-line for the bar, bathrooms or the exit.
The only people who looked more surprised or disappointed than me were the band members themselves. So, with an hour left before last call, my friends and I made our way back to the Jazzhaus to catch the end of Fuzz Nasty's set.
The new funk band was still at full blast in the Jazzhaus, with the bar completely full and the porch outside loud with excited smokers talking. The band had a full dance-floor of fans getting down, and played until last call. Fuzz Nasty has a perfect grasp of bluesy funk music, with a smooth blend of saxophone, guitars, and keyboard backed up by bass and drums, with the singer's comfortably familiar voice. After their "final song" the band was taken aback at the audience's vehement demand for more. A short encore was allowed by the bar owners, to which virtually everyone stayed, for one last funky jam.
After all that, with work early in the morning, I decided to pass on the after-parties, but I'm excited for more great local shows like Fuzzy Nasty's debut, as well as big names like North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue coming to town.
As for this weekend?
Tonight: Friday, March 12th, Speakeasy is playing at the Bottleneck with Bootney Farnsworth. Speakeasy is a jam rock band, that I know I've heard of before, but I'm not sure how familiar I am with their music.
Tomorrow: Saturday, March 13th, Kid Congo Powers & The Pink Monkey Birds are playing at the Jackpot with Spook Lights, The Harrisonics, and Weird Wounds. The Spook Lights are my favorite local band before I discovered From Quiet Arms. The Spook Lights play a hard, sharp style of Rockabilly that I personally love. The Spook Lights don't play often these days, but I'm keeping my eyes open for them.
The five-piece funky blues band was performing for the first time together on stage, for what was a long, exciting set of blues with funky bass and keyboard solos as well as jazzy saxophone and trumpet parts.
The lead singer, who occasionally busted out a trumpet, had a perfect funky blues voice, reminiscent of James Brown. Beside him was a saxophonist with skills and energy, backed up by an electric guitarist and bassist who worked well with the fast-handed percussionist and the keyboardists' deft harmonics.
Altogether the band sounded well practiced and confident, far from beginners. It's hard to believe last night was their first performance, but it's exciting to think they started so strong.
Still, when several of my friends were calling it a night as early as 11:30, and many more friends were at another show, I couldn't resist the temptation to hop over to the Bottleneck for some hardcore blues-rock.
When I saw North Mississippi Allstars when they played the Granada a year ago last Fall, the band consisted of three, and the crowd, although not quite big enough to fill the large venue, was still big, excited and happy to cheer the band on. Some friends there were among the most appreciative audience members, and together we made sure we had a great time, even in the crowded Bottleneck.
Last night the North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue had a new drummer, and additional guitarists and singers switching places with the lead singer and guitarist. The band, although larger, was now on a smaller stage, playing at a smaller venue. The Bottleneck was virtually packed, but sadly the crowd filling the dance floor was over 50% older couples, too tired and calm to dance to the energetic blues rock. Those trying to get down to the jams had trouble finding space, and other people to dance with. But with enough drinks, it was hard to resist the beats.
North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue may be larger than before, but the core of the band, the lead singer/guitarist and the bassist are what make it powerful. A stronger harmony and steadier body of music behind the rocking, funky solos and jams only makes the band better. However, the crowd was clearly not appreciative of the great band's fantastic performance.
After playing from about 10 until 12:30, the band stopped, slowly taking a drink before pretending to put away their equipment. Sadly, the crowd of elderly folks was not familiar with the cat-and-mouse game in-which the band stops playing well before the bars close, so the crowd can request an encore that the band will be allowed to deliver. As soon as the final song finished, and the crowd gave a brief applause, the dance floor emptied abruptly, everyone making a bee-line for the bar, bathrooms or the exit.
The only people who looked more surprised or disappointed than me were the band members themselves. So, with an hour left before last call, my friends and I made our way back to the Jazzhaus to catch the end of Fuzz Nasty's set.
The new funk band was still at full blast in the Jazzhaus, with the bar completely full and the porch outside loud with excited smokers talking. The band had a full dance-floor of fans getting down, and played until last call. Fuzz Nasty has a perfect grasp of bluesy funk music, with a smooth blend of saxophone, guitars, and keyboard backed up by bass and drums, with the singer's comfortably familiar voice. After their "final song" the band was taken aback at the audience's vehement demand for more. A short encore was allowed by the bar owners, to which virtually everyone stayed, for one last funky jam.
After all that, with work early in the morning, I decided to pass on the after-parties, but I'm excited for more great local shows like Fuzzy Nasty's debut, as well as big names like North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue coming to town.
As for this weekend?
Tonight: Friday, March 12th, Speakeasy is playing at the Bottleneck with Bootney Farnsworth. Speakeasy is a jam rock band, that I know I've heard of before, but I'm not sure how familiar I am with their music.
Tomorrow: Saturday, March 13th, Kid Congo Powers & The Pink Monkey Birds are playing at the Jackpot with Spook Lights, The Harrisonics, and Weird Wounds. The Spook Lights are my favorite local band before I discovered From Quiet Arms. The Spook Lights play a hard, sharp style of Rockabilly that I personally love. The Spook Lights don't play often these days, but I'm keeping my eyes open for them.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Tyler Gregory fills the Jackpot with his sonorous voice and bluegrass jams
Wednesday night one might not expect to find anything good playing at the usual venues. Last night, March 11, Tyler Gregory had his CD release party at the Jackpot. The small venue filled to the brim, with a crowd bands there rarely enjoy.
Brent Barry and Katlyn Conroy opened for Gregory with other musicians, playing acoustic folk tunes. I arrived late, so I only heard the last couple of songs of a collection of folk instruments on stage. Whoever they were, they sounded fairly good, but nothing special.
Tyler Gregory came on around 12:30, and began playing a set, like the expert busker that he is. He was sitting in a chair, with a wooden board propped under his feet. He stomped on the wood to create a percussion while he strummed at a banjo and later a guitar. The instrumentation alone gives Tyler Gregory's music a familiar, nostalgic quality. What takes it over the top, to make him someone to be followed, is his voice.
Every song, Tyler Gregory sang with a passion and practiced skill that is rarely found in most bands' vocalists. His particular brand of folk, with hints of blues and bluegrass, makes him a particularly interesting artist to use vocals so strongly in his work.
After several songs alone, Tyler Gregory was joined by a stand-up bassist. The bass line added to the body of the music, but Tyler Gregory's voice still led the songs. Even when a mandolin player came up, the trio's instruments kept a good, quality melody going, but Tyler Gregory's vocals stood out especially.
After the show, Tyler Gregory said he was pleased with the outcome. "It was a school night, and people still came out, and I was really happy with the crowd," Gregory said. His new album "A Path Less Traveled" was being released for $10. He also has an EP called "Moonshiners" for $5. I wish I had more money last night, I would have bought them.
I look forward to hearing Tyler Gregory's impressive voice more at other venues. He may have picked up his skills practicing on the streets, but he belongs on stage.
Tonight I'm torn between going to see North Mississippi Allstars and Fuzz Nasty. Friends are supposed to be going to both, so, it's all up in the air right now. We'll see who calls who, and who is having a pre-party.
Brent Barry and Katlyn Conroy opened for Gregory with other musicians, playing acoustic folk tunes. I arrived late, so I only heard the last couple of songs of a collection of folk instruments on stage. Whoever they were, they sounded fairly good, but nothing special.
Tyler Gregory came on around 12:30, and began playing a set, like the expert busker that he is. He was sitting in a chair, with a wooden board propped under his feet. He stomped on the wood to create a percussion while he strummed at a banjo and later a guitar. The instrumentation alone gives Tyler Gregory's music a familiar, nostalgic quality. What takes it over the top, to make him someone to be followed, is his voice.
Every song, Tyler Gregory sang with a passion and practiced skill that is rarely found in most bands' vocalists. His particular brand of folk, with hints of blues and bluegrass, makes him a particularly interesting artist to use vocals so strongly in his work.
After several songs alone, Tyler Gregory was joined by a stand-up bassist. The bass line added to the body of the music, but Tyler Gregory's voice still led the songs. Even when a mandolin player came up, the trio's instruments kept a good, quality melody going, but Tyler Gregory's vocals stood out especially.
After the show, Tyler Gregory said he was pleased with the outcome. "It was a school night, and people still came out, and I was really happy with the crowd," Gregory said. His new album "A Path Less Traveled" was being released for $10. He also has an EP called "Moonshiners" for $5. I wish I had more money last night, I would have bought them.
I look forward to hearing Tyler Gregory's impressive voice more at other venues. He may have picked up his skills practicing on the streets, but he belongs on stage.
Tonight I'm torn between going to see North Mississippi Allstars and Fuzz Nasty. Friends are supposed to be going to both, so, it's all up in the air right now. We'll see who calls who, and who is having a pre-party.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Early weekend previews
This weekend there are plenty of shows, but nothing that I'm 100% sure I'm going to. However, tonight and tomorrow night, there are some good-sounding concerts that I hope to attend.
Tonight: Wednesday, March 10, at the Jackpot at 10, Tyler Gregory is having a CD release party.
It's $5-7 according to Lawrence.com. Some friends are going, so I'm tempted to go, simply to hang out with them, and see a new show.
Tyler Gregory busks downtown all the time. Just the other night his strong, minstrel's voice, and clean guitar strums filled the night with music outside the bars on Mass street. His blues, folk, americana style is something virtually anyone could enjoy, no matter their normal tastes.
Tomorrow night: Thursday, March 11, there are two shows going on. North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue is playing at the Bottleneck for $16. I've seen the North Mississippi Allstars before. I'm guessing it's mostly the same band. As I recall, their hard-rock style bluegrass, funky jams are a special blend that's hard to describe, let alone compare. The lead singer, who switches between guitar, mandolin - and for a few songs the drummer sings, he covers drums - is a man of great energy and wicked skill. The bassist, a big, young fellow with a lot of heart and some funky fingers, gives songs a hot beat and fun rhythm with his bass lines and solos. The drummer is also young, but energetic, with crazy, wild passion both on percussion and when he sings and plays guitar for his songs.
At the same time Fuzz Nasty will be stirring up some "old-school funk", James Brown style at the Jazzhaus for $5. I've never seen Fuzz Nasty, but several friends are planning to go, so I'm fairly sure I'll have a better time there than at the Bottleneck. The price difference is not a big factor, since North Mississippi Allstars are easily worth $16 to see in a venue as intimate at the Bottleneck, however I am not rolling in the dough at the moment, so I'm going to stick with my friends and rage the Jazzhaus.
I'll update if I find out about anything really exciting this weekend. Until then!
Tonight: Wednesday, March 10, at the Jackpot at 10, Tyler Gregory is having a CD release party.
It's $5-7 according to Lawrence.com. Some friends are going, so I'm tempted to go, simply to hang out with them, and see a new show.
Tyler Gregory busks downtown all the time. Just the other night his strong, minstrel's voice, and clean guitar strums filled the night with music outside the bars on Mass street. His blues, folk, americana style is something virtually anyone could enjoy, no matter their normal tastes.
Tomorrow night: Thursday, March 11, there are two shows going on. North Mississippi Allstars Hill Country Revue is playing at the Bottleneck for $16. I've seen the North Mississippi Allstars before. I'm guessing it's mostly the same band. As I recall, their hard-rock style bluegrass, funky jams are a special blend that's hard to describe, let alone compare. The lead singer, who switches between guitar, mandolin - and for a few songs the drummer sings, he covers drums - is a man of great energy and wicked skill. The bassist, a big, young fellow with a lot of heart and some funky fingers, gives songs a hot beat and fun rhythm with his bass lines and solos. The drummer is also young, but energetic, with crazy, wild passion both on percussion and when he sings and plays guitar for his songs.
At the same time Fuzz Nasty will be stirring up some "old-school funk", James Brown style at the Jazzhaus for $5. I've never seen Fuzz Nasty, but several friends are planning to go, so I'm fairly sure I'll have a better time there than at the Bottleneck. The price difference is not a big factor, since North Mississippi Allstars are easily worth $16 to see in a venue as intimate at the Bottleneck, however I am not rolling in the dough at the moment, so I'm going to stick with my friends and rage the Jazzhaus.
I'll update if I find out about anything really exciting this weekend. Until then!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Sonic Sutra opens the Bottleneck with funky jams and Dirtfoot gets the crowd wild with a powerhouse set
I have exciting news! I'm getting a position on Examiner.com writing a column called "Lawrence Guys Night Out"! I'll be writing about the same shows, concerts, bars, parties and events that I write about here, with full control and freedom to use my writing how and where I want. Therefore there is no conflict of interest with this blog.
That being said, this blog will continue as it has been, and I will use this place to be more personal, and also to practice what I mean to say, so I can write my Examiner articles with the professional style they want.
So, Friday night I meant to see Boombox and EZ Brothers at the Bottleneck, but, one thing after another came up, and when I passed by the Bottleneck around 10:30, I saw a line from the door, all the way to the street, consisting 100% of old, preppy people. Not really the Bottleneck crowd. Not really the Boombox, or EZ Brothers crowd. But there they were, all being stuck up and boring. So I left, and went from one friends' house to another. Everyone seemed to be chilling at home that night, with a few friends, sipping drinks. But I wanted something more, so I kept moving from one place to another.
Around 12:30 I stopped at the Jazzhaus, where I heard Sonic Sutra was opening for the Cosmopolitics. A couple of my friends were there, but had missed Sonic Sutra. I shrugged that off, knowing I'd see them the next day.
But Cosmopolitics were on, and jamming hardcore. The dancefloor was filled, and the bar was busy.
Unfortunately the crowd couldn't properly appreciate the dance-able jams, so I sat with my friends and simply enjoyed the music with their company, before calling it a night when the bar closed.
Last night was even more exciting!
Pre-partying at a friends before a show is always a good idea. It's fun and if the party is close to your destination, it's safe to walk, or use a designated driver. Drinking at home is a lot cheaper than at a bar, and it's sometimes more fun to be able to relax while you get your drink on before hitting the dance floor. My friends around the corner from the Bottleneck are always having people over before the good shows, so we kicked it there until about 10, when we made the short trek to the show.
It cost $7 for one of the best shows I've seen in Lawrence in a while, which impressed me greatly. I forgot how a great band can put on a fantastic show in a smaller venue, before they get too famous, and the fans reap the rewards.
Sonic Sutra is a local band made up of talented musicians who know how to choreograph their sounds to make a great variety of sounds to their songs. Their music has a classic rock harmony about it, with great vocals, impressive guitar solos, hip bass lines and tight drumming. Courtney Rose Smith sings vocals and also plays with a shaker and other percussion and rhythm instruments for different songs, just one example of how every song has it's own style and form, while the band always makes a strong blend.
The set was long, without dragging. Sonic Sutra must have played consistently funky, fun, dance-able songs for at least an hour and a half, with hardly a pause.
As Bottleneck regulars, a basically the most hardcore, badass, party-animals in town, my friends were front and center, holding it down on the dance floor for most of Sonic Sutra's long, but seamless set. The crowd sitting at the bleachers, booths, tables and leaning up against the bar appeared to be too old, self-conscious or unfamiliar to get down. But once Dirtfoot came on, the bar was full, and people who knew how to have fun joined us.
Dirtfoot is a band of professional musicians whose experience together has made them a phenomenon of bluegrass, jam and funk combined. They take pride in the music they play, and they play it well, at every show.
The blend of instruments, played with expert skill, is what makes Dirtfoot special. The lead singer and guitarist plays with boundless energy that exemplifies the bands' tone of wild fun. The bassist plays a stand-up bass, even using a bow for a couple of songs. Even the banjo player took up a bow for a song, which blew my mind.
The core of bluegrass instrumentation worked well with a drummer who played clever solos. On top of the regular drummer, keeping rocking dance beats, there's a second percussionist who used a variety of tambourines, pipes, and even a washboard to add spice to the songs.
To top it all off is the saxophonist, whose slick, veteran playing takes the band to a whole other level. When the saxophone doesn't bring the funk, the saxophonist brings out a clarinet, which can throw down harder that one might expect the woodwind to be capable of.
Dirtfoot puts on an especially fun show, because they know how to get the crowd involved. They pass out cans with dried beans rattling around inside, that the audience is encouraged to shake along to the steady beats. Many songs the band calls out for the crowd to sing a part, something short, like a reply or a holler that completes the chorus. Everyone is drinking and dancing, so it's not asking much for everyone to join in the songs themselves.
Dirtfoot's following must not be as big as it ought to be, because the set was ridiculously fun, but the bar was only comfortably full, not packed. The Bottleneck has hired a waitress who walks around the crowd, asking anyone if they need another drink. It makes it a little more convenient, when the dance floor is crowded or you don't want to fight for a bartenders' attention. As soon as Dirtfoot came on, the dance floor was full and it never quieted down. The band played almost two hours, without pause. Their range of music goes from rock and funk to bluegrass jams, but every tune is the kind of polished, refined quality that it's hard to believe they're still playing the Bottleneck for $7.
It's easy to get friendly at a fun show like Dirtfoot, and people are always prone to put together an after-party on a Saturday night. Sonic Sutra and their friends came over to two of my friends' house, where we played drinking games and hung out even later into the night.
But as I always will preach on this blog, even if I don't harp on it in the Examiner: what made this show really great for me, was being there with a great many of my good friends. Together, we make it less of a concert, and more of a party, and really, that's the way life should be.
That being said, this blog will continue as it has been, and I will use this place to be more personal, and also to practice what I mean to say, so I can write my Examiner articles with the professional style they want.
So, Friday night I meant to see Boombox and EZ Brothers at the Bottleneck, but, one thing after another came up, and when I passed by the Bottleneck around 10:30, I saw a line from the door, all the way to the street, consisting 100% of old, preppy people. Not really the Bottleneck crowd. Not really the Boombox, or EZ Brothers crowd. But there they were, all being stuck up and boring. So I left, and went from one friends' house to another. Everyone seemed to be chilling at home that night, with a few friends, sipping drinks. But I wanted something more, so I kept moving from one place to another.
Around 12:30 I stopped at the Jazzhaus, where I heard Sonic Sutra was opening for the Cosmopolitics. A couple of my friends were there, but had missed Sonic Sutra. I shrugged that off, knowing I'd see them the next day.
But Cosmopolitics were on, and jamming hardcore. The dancefloor was filled, and the bar was busy.
Unfortunately the crowd couldn't properly appreciate the dance-able jams, so I sat with my friends and simply enjoyed the music with their company, before calling it a night when the bar closed.
Last night was even more exciting!
Pre-partying at a friends before a show is always a good idea. It's fun and if the party is close to your destination, it's safe to walk, or use a designated driver. Drinking at home is a lot cheaper than at a bar, and it's sometimes more fun to be able to relax while you get your drink on before hitting the dance floor. My friends around the corner from the Bottleneck are always having people over before the good shows, so we kicked it there until about 10, when we made the short trek to the show.
It cost $7 for one of the best shows I've seen in Lawrence in a while, which impressed me greatly. I forgot how a great band can put on a fantastic show in a smaller venue, before they get too famous, and the fans reap the rewards.
Sonic Sutra is a local band made up of talented musicians who know how to choreograph their sounds to make a great variety of sounds to their songs. Their music has a classic rock harmony about it, with great vocals, impressive guitar solos, hip bass lines and tight drumming. Courtney Rose Smith sings vocals and also plays with a shaker and other percussion and rhythm instruments for different songs, just one example of how every song has it's own style and form, while the band always makes a strong blend.
The set was long, without dragging. Sonic Sutra must have played consistently funky, fun, dance-able songs for at least an hour and a half, with hardly a pause.
As Bottleneck regulars, a basically the most hardcore, badass, party-animals in town, my friends were front and center, holding it down on the dance floor for most of Sonic Sutra's long, but seamless set. The crowd sitting at the bleachers, booths, tables and leaning up against the bar appeared to be too old, self-conscious or unfamiliar to get down. But once Dirtfoot came on, the bar was full, and people who knew how to have fun joined us.
Dirtfoot is a band of professional musicians whose experience together has made them a phenomenon of bluegrass, jam and funk combined. They take pride in the music they play, and they play it well, at every show.
The blend of instruments, played with expert skill, is what makes Dirtfoot special. The lead singer and guitarist plays with boundless energy that exemplifies the bands' tone of wild fun. The bassist plays a stand-up bass, even using a bow for a couple of songs. Even the banjo player took up a bow for a song, which blew my mind.
The core of bluegrass instrumentation worked well with a drummer who played clever solos. On top of the regular drummer, keeping rocking dance beats, there's a second percussionist who used a variety of tambourines, pipes, and even a washboard to add spice to the songs.
To top it all off is the saxophonist, whose slick, veteran playing takes the band to a whole other level. When the saxophone doesn't bring the funk, the saxophonist brings out a clarinet, which can throw down harder that one might expect the woodwind to be capable of.
Dirtfoot puts on an especially fun show, because they know how to get the crowd involved. They pass out cans with dried beans rattling around inside, that the audience is encouraged to shake along to the steady beats. Many songs the band calls out for the crowd to sing a part, something short, like a reply or a holler that completes the chorus. Everyone is drinking and dancing, so it's not asking much for everyone to join in the songs themselves.
Dirtfoot's following must not be as big as it ought to be, because the set was ridiculously fun, but the bar was only comfortably full, not packed. The Bottleneck has hired a waitress who walks around the crowd, asking anyone if they need another drink. It makes it a little more convenient, when the dance floor is crowded or you don't want to fight for a bartenders' attention. As soon as Dirtfoot came on, the dance floor was full and it never quieted down. The band played almost two hours, without pause. Their range of music goes from rock and funk to bluegrass jams, but every tune is the kind of polished, refined quality that it's hard to believe they're still playing the Bottleneck for $7.
It's easy to get friendly at a fun show like Dirtfoot, and people are always prone to put together an after-party on a Saturday night. Sonic Sutra and their friends came over to two of my friends' house, where we played drinking games and hung out even later into the night.
But as I always will preach on this blog, even if I don't harp on it in the Examiner: what made this show really great for me, was being there with a great many of my good friends. Together, we make it less of a concert, and more of a party, and really, that's the way life should be.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
March Madness weekend preview
So, it's a new month, and there's lots of shows to look forward to!
In the short term, my weekend is already booked:
Friday night I'm interested in seeing Boombox and EZ Brothers put down some funky jam tunes. I have never seen either performance, but heard Boombox' favorite song on their website, and it sounded like a party. Lawrence.com says it's $11, which is so-so for a Bottleneck show, but worth it if all my friends are getting down.
Some friends have already confirmed they're going, so I hope to meet up with them for pre-partying or an after-party. Thankfully I don't have work all weekend, so I'll be able to recover Saturday morning before getting ready to go out again a second night.
Saturday, Sonic Sutra is playing with Dirtfoot. These are two great, fun bluegrass jam bands that have wicked talent, and throw down for some fun-ass shows! I am very excited about this night, and will definitely be raging it with my crew, once again at the Bottleneck.
It really seems odd how many great shows the Bottleneck has been having this year, but I just have to hand it to them: they know how to satisfy a whole network of Lawrence people.
Lawrence.com doesn't have a cost estimate for this show. I'm guessing somewhere near 15, but whatever it is, I'm positive it will be worth it for the good times to be had.
Looking ahead I hear that The Wailers will be playing the Voodoo Lounge in KC, Friday, March 26.
Lastly, I have a special place in my heart for goth music. It's what got me through high school. So, when I hear that VNV Nation, one of the only "gothy" bands still doing national tours in the US was coming to town, I almost peed my pants. VNV Nation: 3 guys on synthesizers of various kinds, and a grump, shaven-headed Irishman singing, brought out more goth kids in Lawrence than I've ever seen in Kansas. I'm excited to get gothed up with some friends and check them out again on April 7th!
Hope to see you around the Bottleneck this weekend!
In the short term, my weekend is already booked:
Friday night I'm interested in seeing Boombox and EZ Brothers put down some funky jam tunes. I have never seen either performance, but heard Boombox' favorite song on their website, and it sounded like a party. Lawrence.com says it's $11, which is so-so for a Bottleneck show, but worth it if all my friends are getting down.
Some friends have already confirmed they're going, so I hope to meet up with them for pre-partying or an after-party. Thankfully I don't have work all weekend, so I'll be able to recover Saturday morning before getting ready to go out again a second night.
Saturday, Sonic Sutra is playing with Dirtfoot. These are two great, fun bluegrass jam bands that have wicked talent, and throw down for some fun-ass shows! I am very excited about this night, and will definitely be raging it with my crew, once again at the Bottleneck.
It really seems odd how many great shows the Bottleneck has been having this year, but I just have to hand it to them: they know how to satisfy a whole network of Lawrence people.
Lawrence.com doesn't have a cost estimate for this show. I'm guessing somewhere near 15, but whatever it is, I'm positive it will be worth it for the good times to be had.
Looking ahead I hear that The Wailers will be playing the Voodoo Lounge in KC, Friday, March 26.
Lastly, I have a special place in my heart for goth music. It's what got me through high school. So, when I hear that VNV Nation, one of the only "gothy" bands still doing national tours in the US was coming to town, I almost peed my pants. VNV Nation: 3 guys on synthesizers of various kinds, and a grump, shaven-headed Irishman singing, brought out more goth kids in Lawrence than I've ever seen in Kansas. I'm excited to get gothed up with some friends and check them out again on April 7th!
Hope to see you around the Bottleneck this weekend!
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