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Column for July 29, 2009

Revive @ Five will rock tonight when Ande Conda takes the stage at the Old Town Pavilion in downtown Pocatello - map. Music from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., sponsored by the Idaho Food Bank and catered by Out to Lunch. (full 2009 schedule of Revive @ Five)

Ande Conda plays classic rock and hard rock covers from the 80’s, 90’s and today. The group is fronted by Jeff Beery on vocals, with guitarists Ronnie Moore and Richard Green, Brian Miera on bass and drummer Chris Anderson.

This band is all about guitars - great, big guitar sounds with a great, big classic hard rock tenor vocalist to back it up. You’ll see Moore rip through lead solos, effortlessly reproducing guitar licks from Eddie Van Halen and Slash, while Beery nails tenor vocals on “Sweet Child.”

Ande Conda also plays at Taps Bar on Garrett Way this weekend, starting at 9:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights. Find out more at www.myspace.com/andeconda

Doors open at The Icon on Main Street - map - at 6:30 for the eagerly anticipated concert by Drop Dead, Gorgeous. Watch that comma folks – it completely changes the meaning behind the name of the band. I met DD,G at Warped Tour two years ago, and they were perhaps my favorite act of that entire long day. Tickets are $10 advance, available at smithstix.com.

Idaho State University wraps up their summer concert series on the Quad - map - on Thursday the 30th, with Anodyne Red at 6:00 p.m. and Cary Judd closing the show at 7:00 p.m.

Cary Judd is a solo guitarist and performer, cranking out loud rock & roll – louder than you’d expect from just one person. Born in the Czech Republic, Judd has lived many places, “the last 6 years mostly in my car,” he says, “hotel rooms, miscellaneous couches and camp sites across the USA.”

Judd recently released a CD, "Goodnight Human," a few months ago. It will be available for sale at the concert. Find out more at www.caryjudd.com.

Anodyne Red recently played at the Icon and the Vinyl Perk downtown. The 3-piece, formed six years ago and based in southeast Idaho, plays acoustic rock with exciting harmonies and vocals. They switch the instruments they play, guitar, bass and drums, which keeps things fresh and entertaining.

Randy Bishop of Anodyne Red said, “Musicians live off of the crowds that show up to listen to them. Support the small guys because that's what pushes the music industry to new heights.” Their CD, “My Heart,” will be for sale at the show. Find out more at www.myspace.com/anodynered.

On Friday the 31st, the Benton Street Bar & Grill - map - has their Grand Re-Opening with guitarist and singer / songwriter “Downtown Dan” Hillebrant performing on stage. The Classic Car Club will make an appearance in the parking lot, so bring your hot rods. The event starts at 6:00 p.m., is free and open to the public. More at www.myspace.com/bentonstreet.

Dan Hillebrant has spent thirty-five years as a singer/songwriter and is a full-time musician, working in several local bands over the years, hosting the First National Bar’s Thursday night open mic and running the sound board on nights when he isn’t performing. A true story teller in his songs, he’s perhaps best known for his song, “Trailer Trash,” a light-hearted ode to an unworthy woman.

Hillebrant is perhaps best known for his work in two very successful local bands, Greybeard and the Shape Shifters Blues Project. But more than that, Dan is known all over Pocatello as a local celebrity - an institution in our local live music scene. Find out more online at www.myspace.com/danhillebrant.

On Saturday, August 1st, Aaron Ball band Somewhere In The Middle plays at the Benton Street starting at 9:00 p.m. For a full calendar, visit www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.

Also on Friday, Tia Velasquez plays at J’Annas Bistro on Main St. - map - starting at 6 p.m. She has been playing at coffee shops, open mic nights, and more for five years. She is also scheduled to play at The Icon on September 19th; tickets are $10 at the door. Visit www.myspace.com/tiahopesmusic.

At Portneuf Valley Brewing - map - this weekend, Swingshift plays on Friday night, and Benyaro makes a return to Pocatello on Saturday night. Music starts at 8:30 p.m.

Lastly, on Monday, August 3rd, The Fling, Thee Fine Line and Warbonnet play a fund raising concert for KISU at the Bengal Café in the Pond Student Union Building at Idaho State University. Cost is $3 for the general public and $2 for students. For more information, write to Levi Keller at beatcityradio@gmail.com.

Linda Alexander
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

KISU Benefit concert at the Bengal Cafe

Who: The Fling, Thee Fine Lines, and Warbonnet
What: Rock bands in concert
Where: The Bengal Cafe, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho
When: Monday, August 3, 2009, 7 - 10 p.m.
Why: Fund Raiser for KISU radio

KISU Presents:
THE FLING – Long Beach, CA - www.myspace.com/thefling
THEE FINE LINES – Springfield, MO - www.myspace.com/theefinelines
WARBONNET – Pocatello, ID - www.myspace.com/warbonnetones

The Bengal Café is inside the Pond Student Union Building of ISU's Pocatello campus.

KISU-FM National Showcase/Listening Party

$3 for the general public. $2 for students.
ALL AGES.

Proceeds benefit KISU 91.1 and 91.3 FM as well as up-and-coming bands.

Contact Information: Levi Keller or Chenoa Roseberry
KISU 91.1 and 91.3 FM
(208) 282-3691

beatcityradio@gmail.com - Levi
chenoasaurus@gmail.com - Chenoa

Benton Street Grand Re-Opening with Dan Hillebrant

Who: Dan Hillebrant
What: Solo guitarist, singer, songwriter
Where: Benton Street Bar & Grill, Pocatello Idaho - map
When: Friday, July 31, 2009, 6:00 - 9:00 pm
Why: Benton Street Grand Re-Opening

Dan Hillebrant has spent thirty-five years as a singer/songwriter and is a full-time musician, working in several local bands over the years, hosting the First National Bar’s Thursday night open mic and running the sound board on nights when he isn’t performing. A true story teller in his songs, he’s perhaps best known for his song, “Trailer Trash,” a light-hearted ode to an unworthy woman.



I'm not sure how many years I've known Dan, five or six years, at least. And we've become friends for many reasons, certainly because we both have a vested interest in the local live music scene in Southeast Idaho.

Dan is perhaps best known for his work in two very successful local bands, Greybeard and the Shape Shifters Blues Project. But more than that, Dan is known all over Pocatello as a local celebrity, an institution in our local live music scene.

Dan has worked in every bar and music venue in town over the years. The Benton Street says, "We are proud and pleased to have Dan Hillebrant share this evening with us. There is no one else with that voice - it reminds me of caramel."

A fitting comment from a foodie. Now if the Benton Street just couldn't see their way clear to developing a dessert menu, we could have caramel there more often!

Best of luck to all.

Interview with Tia Velasquez

Who: Tia Velasquez
What: Acoustic solo musician, in concert
Where: J'Annas Bistro, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Friday, July 31, 2009, 6:00pm

Tia has been playing the rounds at local restaurants and coffee houses. I caught up with her recently to get more information on her shows and her music.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

TV: My top 3 crowd-pleasing songs would be Dear Rose, Back Pocket, & Destry

SLG: Have you always been a solo artist? Or have you worked with a band?

TV: I have always been a solo artist. I have performed for 5 years now at coffee shops, the Blackfoot Fair, open mike nights, sidewalks, and J'Annas Bistro.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

TV: I was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho, but I am moving to Logan, Utah to go to Utah State University in the fall.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

TV: I play at J'annas Bistro every weekend on either a Friday or Saturday from 6 - 8 p.m. September 19 I open for Making April at The Icon. Tickets are $10 at the door.

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

TV: The best way to get my music out there would be performing at as many places I can, to get people talking.

SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

TV: Yes, I have a CD selling for $10, and it is available at every show.

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

TV: www.myspace.com/tiahopesmusic

Interview with Cary Judd

Who: Cary Judd
What: Solo musician, in concert
Where: The Quad at Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho - map
When: Thursday, July 30, 2009 6 - 9 pm

I've been posting Cary Judd's shows for over a year now. He typically plays in Idaho Falls and to the north of Pocatello, so I'm eager to see a performance of his at Idaho State University.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

CJ: Rock & Roll - it's loud for just one person. Outside of that it's easier to hear it than describe it beyond that.

SLG: Have you always been a solo artist? Or have you worked with a band?

CJ: I am both a solo artist and a band.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

CJ: I was born in The Czech Republic to an American woman and a Dutch man. I've lived many places since; the last 6 years mostly in my car, hotel rooms, miscellaneous couches and camp sites across the U-S-of-A.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

CJ: I once opened for a magician; I'm still digesting that. I play Pocatello as often as the good Lord allows me to.

SLG: Describe this particular show. What can ppl expect if they come to this show?

CJ: All ages. July 30th, free show in the quad. I will be hitting the stage at approximately 7PM, after I hit it, I will stomp on it for approximately 1 1/2 hours. [Anodyne Red opens at 6PM. -SLG]

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

CJ: I have no idea what I'm doing. The longer I do this, the more confused I am by the business of music. I just keep making music that is honest and hope someone wants to hear it.

SLG: Do you have any favorite videos of your band or your music on YouTube?

CJ: This one -

and this one -

SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

CJ: Yes, I have a new CD that came out a few months ago called "Goodnight Human." It will be available as well as my older album and the cutest t-shirts you ever did see.

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

http://www.facebook.com/caryjudd
http://www.myspace.com/caryjudd
http://www.caryjudd.com

Interview with Anodyne Red

Who: Anodyne Red
What: Acoustic rock band, in concert
Where: The Quad, Idaho State Unviersity, Pocatello, Idaho
When: Thursday, July 30, 2009, 6:00 pm

Anodyne Red has been playing more and more local shows now - showing up on my local music scene radar with increasing frequency. I thought it was past time I caught up with them to see what they're all about. Randy Bishop of Anodyne Red answered a few questions for me.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like.

RB: Our music is hard to classify into a specific genre because it has its own sort of sound. The three of us (Eric, Randy, and Derek) all have our own style that we like to play, so that's what we do. The mixture of influences has made what we believe to be a marvelous sound that we enjoy playing and listening to. I suppose that every band is like that, though.

Most of our songs are played with an acoustic guitar, bass, and drums. The vocals are filled with harmonies, which excites a lot of people. We do switch things up quite a bit, though. All of us switch instruments pretty frequently throughout our shows, which keeps things fresh, I think.

SLG: Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

RB: The thing that people seem to enjoy the most about our shows is just the music. We still have a lot to learn about stage presence and such, but what we lack as performers, we like to think we make up for as musicians. We discipline ourselves into making sure that all of our songs are played really tight, so that they sound just as good live as they would in a professional studio. In fact, I think that we sound better live than we do in our recordings.

SLG: How long has this line-up been together?

RB: The members of our band have stayed pretty consistent throughout the past six years or so. The three of us play really well together and the band feels complete the way it is. The thing that I love the most about playing in Anodyne Red is that we are friends before bandmates. I don't think it's very often that you get to play with your best friends. We started playing together while we were sophomores at Idaho Falls High School and are still based around IF and Rexburg.

SLG: Tell us about this upcoming show at ISU. What can people expect if they go?

RB: We're excited to play at ISU because Pocatello has been good to us. We've had really good receptions both at the Icon and the Vinyl Perk downtown. People in Pocatello just seem to know how to treat their artists.

The show Thursday, July 30th at the ISU Quad should be a lot of fun. We hit the stage at 6:00 and then Cary Judd comes on right after us, which will be a real treat. He's a very talented guy and we feel honored to be opening for him. I'm pretty sure there's going to be a BBQ and a bunch of free stuff from the college, so there really shouldn't be any place else to be on Thursday night.


SLG: Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

RB: We'll be selling our CD "My Heart" for $8.00 at the show for all you folks that are interested.

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene? The music industry in general?

RB: We just want to encourage everyone to come see the show and all of the other shows going on this summer. Musicians live off of the crowds that show up to listen to them. Support the small guys because that's what pushes the music industry to new heights. It doesn't really matter how talented a band is unless they have people who support them. Thanks a million.

SLG: How can fans keep in contact with you?

RB: Our myspace page is www.myspace.com/anodynered

Column for July 22, 2009

Pocatello’s favorite Pocatello-native country star, Rocky Watson, is the featured performer at tonight’s Revive @ Five concert, hosted by the Bannock Civitans at the Old Town Pavilion, Main Street in Pocatello (map). The evening is sponsored by the Idaho Central Credit Union and catered by the Sand Trap, 5 to 8 p.m.

Rocky Watson, a solo performer, has a new CD for sale this year, “Rocky Watson Productions,” featuring his original song, “Mamma Told Me.” In concert, he plays a variety of country, R&B, blues and rock from the 50’s through the 70’s. Some of his most popular songs are “Pretty Woman,” “Brown Eyed Girl” and his signature song, “Cowboy.” He is most popular for his versatility and vocal talent.

“One of the many highlights in my career was winning ‘Country Star Search’ and appearing on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN,” Watson recalls. “I remember watching my wife, Patricia, pitching my songs to record label executives back stage.” Pat wasn’t supposed to be backstage, but she got it done. Another career highlight for Watson was performing at the Stephens Performing Arts Center to a sold-out crowd. Find out more at www.myspace.com/rockywatson.

Thursday’s concert on the ISU Quad (map) features David Campbell, from Seymor, IN, with Pocatell-based Greyhouse Effect opening. Music starts at 6:00 p.m., free and open to the public.

Campbell taught himself to play guitar when he was thirteen. He started writing songs, influenced by John Mayer, Jack Johnson, John Fogerty, and Prince. Campbell says, "I really enjoy taking a song that is on the radio and making it my own. I'll take something I hear off the radio and reproduce it on the acoustic guitar even though the song may not have acoustic guitar. It may just be piano or bass or synthesizers."

Whether playing endearing originals or covering everything from Otis Redding to Outkast, David Campbell ensures that audiences will have an experience like no other. More at www.myspace.com/davidcampbell.

Opening, Greyhouse Effect is a solo act by Joe Hunt. He’s currently putting together a 3-piece configuration with bass and drums and continuing to write new songs as he prepares for the next incarnation of the band. Visit Hunt online at www.myspace.com/greyhouseeffect.

Elvis Has Left The Building, or ELB as they are known, has been a long-standing favorite music group in Southeast Idaho. This week, ELB is playing at Sandbaggers on Yellowstone (map) on Thursday the 23rd at 8 p.m. and on Friday the 24th at Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello (map) at 8:30 p.m.

ELB plays original acoustic Americana. “We'll do an occasional cover song if there's a specific reason, but basically all of the material that we do is our own. Each of us has played in cover bands where the goal is to play popular songs that everybody knows,” says Angier Wills. “However, after you've written several hundred songs, I think that eventually the idea of sharing whatever it is that you're trying to say becomes much more important than just playing songs that an audience might want to hear. We are very thankful for people letting us play our own music over the years, and generally being supportive of that. It also helps that we have no desire to give up our day jobs.”

Based in Pocatello, Wills is joined by Greg Mladenka and Bill Chalmers to form Elvis Has Left The Building, taking turns playing guitar, mandolin and bass. Their intention is to make the listener think about something that they may have forgotten to think about the first time around. “Greg and I are very opinionated people.” Wills commented, “and we certainly don't expect everyone to agree with what our songs are saying. But we do hope that we can get people thinking about things.”

More than a few of ELB’s songs are about things like small towns in Idaho, backcountry skiing, Ernest Hemmingway, vanishing Salmon, avalanches, and local politics. With three CD’s under their belt and a fourth due out this fall, Elvis Has Left The Building has a loyal core group of listeners, many of whom are also musicians.

And on Saturday the 25th, the newly re-formatted Benton Street Bar & Grill on S. 2nd Ave. (map), now a non-smoking establishment, is pleased to bring Shawn Good and John Shipe to their stage. Both musicians are acoustic guitar, singer / songwriters. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., $3 for those 21 and over and $5 for those under 21. Find out more at www.myspace.com/bentonstreet.

Linda Alexander
"Lana Banana" for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Tickets On Sale Now

Crue Fest 2
with Motley Crue, Godsmack, Drowning Pool and more ...


Select Reserved Seats only $20, on sale July 23rd only, 10am to 10pm

-----------------------------------------

Buy one Get one Free Clint Black Tickets



July 23, 2009 - while supplies last

Concert at the Fairgrounds, Pocatello, July 20 2009

Column for July 15, 2009

Tonight at 5 o’clock, the Civitans’ weekly Wednesday night Revive at Five concert series is half-way through its season with The Shape Shifters Blues Project taking the stage at the Old Town Pavilion, 420 N. Main Street (map) in downtown Pocatello. The event is sponsored by Convergys’ Health & Recruiting Fair and catered by the Grecian Key. (Revive @ Five 2009 schedule)

Also tonight, a special mid-week music performance at the Vinyl Perk on S. Main Street (map): Benyaro will be in concert at 7:00 p.m., playing acoustic soul and roots music. There is a $5 cover.

Benyaro is touring as a duo, with Ben Musser on lead vocals, guitars, bass drum and harmonica and Bobby McCullough on harmony vocals, upright bass, hi-hat and tambourine. Listen for some of their crowd favorites, “Feelin’ Low,” “Cutting Words” and “Bullet-Like Belief.” (read full interview)

“Fans seem to be attracted to the emotion that comes through the vocals.” Musser said. “They are also attracted to the amount of sound and music that comes from just two performers.”

Formed in 2005, Benyaro is based out of New York, NY, but has recently been spending more time in Jackson, WY. They performed at the Avett Brothers’ after-show in Concord, NC two weeks ago with Samantha Crain and the Midnight Shivers. And the group has opened for legendary folk icon Malcolm Holcombe in New York, Boston, and Johnson City, TN.

Benyaro’s self-titled album reached #162 on the National CMJ top 200. “The music industry is hurting,” Musser commented. “I hope and think that independent artists and small labels are going to help to rebuild a music industry that focuses on the art itself and not just appealing to the masses. This will be better for the listener as they will and now have so many groups to choose from. It will be competitive for the artists, but hopefully the best music will rise to the top.” Find out more at www.benyaro.com.

Thursday the 16th at 6:00 p.m., The Clumsy Lovers make their annual trek through Pocatello to Idaho State University’s concert on the Quad (map), hosted by Summer Programming. This year, Dawnya Clarine opens. The concert is free and open to the public.

The Clumsy Lovers play a blend of Celtic, bluegrass and rock that have made them one of the most sought-after bluegrass bands on the circuit. And with ten CD’s under their belt, including their newest, “Make Yourself Known,” and thousands of live performances, The Clumsy Lovers are always welcome in Pocatello’s local live music scene. Find out more at www.clumsylovers.com.

Opening, Dawnya Clarine’s first album of original tunes divulges 45 years of life experience through a voice that sounds twenty-something fresh. Her blues, pop, soul, and jazz sound is fluid and positive. More at www.dawnyaclarine.com. (ISU's 2009 summer entertainment schedule)

Friday the 17th, the Vinyl Perk hosts the local acoustic folk and blues band, Nyr Lif at 7:00 p.m. Listen for the bluegrass tune “Capoed,” a nice harmonica blues song “Yani,” and a fan favorite, “The Bicycle of Fate.”

Formed about two years ago, Nyr Lif is a duo, with Casey Cathey on guitar and Sawn Barkdull on vocals and guitar. Cathey said it’s hard to describe their music, “Kind of like Corn Flakes,” there’s nothing else out there to compare it to, and says their show is “made for weary ears who want solitude.” (read full interview)

Recently, Nyr Lif went to Salt Lake City for a radio house show, which was great exposure. Cathey said, “Lots of fun, and lots of compliments.” They’ve played at most of the smaller venues in Pocatello as well as The Icon on Main Street, but as many local musicians have commented, “it was hard to work with those employed.”

“For us, all we ever hope for is to make a comfortable living doing something we think about every waking minute - except when we’re hungry.” Find out more at www.myspace.com/nyrlif.

And on Saturday, Jared Mees & The Grown Children, Finn Riggins, and Warbonnet will entertain at the Ross Park Band Shell for a KISU-FM fund-raising concert from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. It’s a listening party, regional showcase and pot-luck. So bring a dish to share, your own beverages and a chair for comfort. There is a requested donation of $3 at the gate. Proceeds benefit KISU 91.1 and 91.3 FM as well as up-and-coming bands. For futher information, contact Levi Keller or Chenoa Roseberry at KISU, (208) 282-3691. (blog post here)

Monday of next week, Neckbrace, The Analyst, Through the Fire and more hard rock bands play at the Bannock County Fairgrounds in Pocatello (map). Gates open at 6:30 p.m.; cost is $8. (more information)

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

American Steel plays Lava Hot Spring 7/24-25/09

AMERICAN STEEL PLAYS LAVA JULY 24TH

WE WILL BE AT THE BLUE MOON BAR JULY 24TH 25TH
SHOWTIME IS 9PM. BIG PARTY WEEKEND
COME HAVE A GREAT TIME WITH US!!!!

KAT-DARRELL-MARCI-TRACY-RAY WE LOVE YOU!!!

americansteelrocks@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/americansteel4u

KISU Outdoor Concert Benefit

Who: Jared Mees & The Grown Children, Finn Riggins, and Warbonnet
What: Folk and experimental music in concert
Where: Ross Park Band Shell, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Saturday, July 18, 2009, 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Why: KISU-FM Fundraiser/Regional Showcase Listening Party/Pot-luck

KISU Presents: Jared Mees & The Grown Children, Finn Riggins, and Warbonnet

Saturday, July 18, 2009
Ross Park Band Shell (Across From the Ross Park Aquatic Complex) 2900 South Second Avenue, Pocatello

KISU-FM Fundraiser/Regional Showcase Listening Party/Pot-luck

Live Music from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM

JARED MEES & THE GROWN CHILDREN – Portland, OR - www.myspace.com/jaredmees
FINN RIGGINS – Boise, ID - www.myspace.com/finnriggins
WARBONNET – Pocatello, ID - www.myspace.com/warbonnetones

$3 suggested donation at the gate.
ALL AGES.
Bring a dish to share, as well as your own beverage, and a chair if you’d like.

Proceeds benefit KISU 91.1 and 91.3 FM as well as up-and-coming bands.

For futher information, contact Levi Keller or Chenoa Roseberry
KISU 91.1 and 91.3 FM
(208) 282-3691
beatcityradio@gmail.com - Levi
chenoasaurus@gmail.com - Chenoa

Interview with Nyr Lif

Who: Nyr Lif
What: Indie / Ambient band in two upcoming concerts
Where: The Vinyl Perk , Pocatello, Idaho - map
When: Friday, July 17, 2009 at 7:00pm

I first started hearing about (and writing about) Nyr Lif more than two years ago, in January of '06. I wrote, "Nyr Lif’s music is a mix of indie rock and folk. There is acoustic layering of guitars, creative percussion, and great harmonies. Oh yeah, and they’re a group of good looking young men. That doesn’t hurt."

Formed six months before, Nyr Lif has played at venues all around Pocatello. They took first in ISU’s Guitar Unplugged Battle of the Bands. They are regulars at the local coffee shops, and then landed a coveted spot at ISU’s Halloween bash, Fright Night, playing in front of hundreds at Reed Gym.

I caught up with guitarist Casey Cathey about what's new with the band.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs?

CC: We are an indie acoustic folk/blues band. Our style is super hard to explain, since there isn’t much to compare it to. Kind of like Frosted Flakes.

Our three most crowd pleasing songs are "Capoed," (bluegrassy), "Yani," (harmonica blues), and "The Bicycle of Fate" (indie).

SLG: Band member first and last names / instruments. How long has this line-up been together?

Casey Cathey – Guitar Shawn Barkdull – Vocals, Guitar

CC: We have a bassist who will assist when our drummer comes back. But for now, we are a duo. We have been playing for over two years now.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

CC: We are from Pocatello, Idaho, but plan to expand in Seattle, Washington.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

CC: We went to Salt Lake City and played a radio house show, which was great exposure, lots of fun, and lots of compliments. The Icon here in Poky was good for the publicity, but it was hard to work with those employed.

SLG: Describe this particular show. What can ppl expect?

For the Vinyl Perk show (July 17th), we will simply be our acoustic set, made for weary ears who want solitude. Our bassist will be opening for us at 7:00pm with his solo stuff, then Shawn and I will hit the stage at 7:30 or 7:45-ish. All ages, free of charge.

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

CC: For us, all we ever hope for is to make a comfortable living doing something we think about every waking minute. Except when we’re hungry. Our best music pusher has been CD Baby and word of mouth.

SLG: Do you have any videos on YouTube?

CC: Yes, we have videos of our full band down to our solo stuff. Check it.


More Nyr Lif videos at www.youtube.com/transistorsendpm

SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

CC: Hm… We try to print and bring CDs to our shows. Things get in the way sometimes. We may or may not have CD’s there. It’s good incentive to get people to come.

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

CC: Yes, we have a plethora of sites.

www.myspace.com/nyrlif
cdbaby.com/cd/nyrlif
www.thesixtyone.com/nyrlif
www.purevolume.com/nyrlif

Any one of those should do ‘er.

From Blogs around Myspace early-July '09

From Blakefest - (blog post)

BLAKEFEST is an all day, all ages concert event featuring local bands that have offered their time and talent to perform in our community, in order to raise awareness of issues impacting our youth and our community. Hosting BLAKEFEST has opened many doors to create awareness in our local community. It's because of our countless volunteer hours, deep passion and commitment that our local communities are becoming more involved and informed.

This year BLAKEFEST 2009 will be sponsored by Idaho Health Guide, co-sponsors are The Hard Hat Steakhouse, and 78 Productions. Headlining at BLAKEFEST 2009 is KREEP a national touring band made up of members from White Zombie and Bile. This concert event will feature 7 local bands.

The concert starts at 1pm. Tickets are $10 in advance from the bands and $12.00 at the gate. Saturday, August 15th!! Same Great Place!! Blake's Place 171 S 45th Rd W, Idaho Falls, Idaho. Get your tickets early. Limited # of $10.00 presale tickets are now on sale.

From Dr. Suess is Dead - (blog post)

Holy shit, those of you who have attended before know what Rock the Mountain is all about. For the rest of you, all I can say is that if you miss RTM, you've missed the most exciting event that happens in Idaho all year long.

Full details: http://www.rockthemountain.com



From Finn Riggins - (blog post)

Pretty nice of the 'ol Boston Phoenix to acknowledge us. We appreciate the honor. There are some great bands on this list / have been on this list.... go Idaho!

http://thephoenix.com/Supplements/2009/50States/Idaho/

New album "Vs Wilderness" out this fall on Tender Loving Empire!! Full tour of the Western States to follow. More info soon.

love,
the finn rigginses

From Nate Kizerian - (blog post)

I entered the Alpine Rock The Dash 2 contest.Winners are determined by votes.If I win I get $5,000 to spend at Guitar Center.I would love to buy some new recording gear.If I win I plan on splitting the prize with my kids.Then need new gear too :) So if you would like to help me out.You can follow the link below and vote.You can vote once a day if you would like ;) I would like to thank all of you that have been voting everyday.Your support has been amazing!!!

click here to vote

From Cvltvs Mortem - (blog post)

As many of you are aware, things have been very quiet here at the Cvltvs camp during the last month+. On a local level, there have been many rumors making their way back to us regarding our status as a band. Yes, it's absolutely true that we encountered some turbulence, regrettably resulting in the cancellation of 4 upcoming shows. It's also true that Robert had flirted with the thought of joining Dimmencha when things were very questionable. Despite the degree of seriousness of where we were at as a band, a compromise and re-focussing of the minds was reached. Evil doesn't die easy, and it has become time to re-group and re-kindle the black flame! We're not at liberty to promise any time frame for a live performance any time soon. For now, we descend back into Hell to resume work on our new material that was put on the back-burner due to an overly aggressive live performance schedule. We thank everyone that supports what we do, and apologize to our fans who have questioned the band's status. It's become necessary to issue this statement to let everyone know that CVLTVS LIVES!
Infernal Regards,
Brian

Interview with Benyaro

Who: Benyaro
What: Duo acoustic roots rock band in concert
Where: The Vinyl Perk, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Wednesday, July 15, 2009, 7:00pm

I'm very eager about the music entertainment I've been seeing come through The Vinyl Perk. If you haven't picked up on this gem of a place, get over there and check it out. Benyaro is making their debut performance in the area - this might be a good opportunity to see a new place and see a new band.

I asked Ben Musser of Benyaro a few questions so we will know what to expect.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

BM: Acoustic soul and roots music. Our crowd pleasing songs are "Feelin’ Low," "Cutting Words," and "Bullet-Like Belief."

Fans seem to be attracted to the emotion that comes through the vocals. They are also attracted to the amount of sound and music that comes from just two performers. We play nylon string guitar, upright bass, bass drum, hi-hat, shaker, harmonica, tambourine, and sing with two voices, all at the same time. Lastly, they enjoy the songs.

SLG: Who's in the band? And who's touring with you? How long has this line-up been together?

BM: On tour:
Ben Musser – lead vocals, nylon string and steel string guitars, bass drum, shaker, and harmonica
Bobby McCullough – harmony vocals, upright bass, hi-hat, and tambourine

Not on tour:
Meg (Musser) Chamberlin - harmony and lead vocals, percussion

Benyaro was born in 2005 with another bassist. Bobby joined me (Ben) and my sister in December of 2008. Meg and I have been performing for years together, but again, Benyaro came about in 2005.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

MG: Benyaro is out of New York, NY but has recently been spending more time in Jackson, WY.

SLG: Nice! Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

Benyaro performed at the Avett Brothers (Concord, North Carolina) after-show at The Pageant in St. Louis, MO this past Thursday night. We had the openers, Samantha Crain and the Midnight Shivers, up on stage with us by the end of the show, to sing some tunes. It was a hoot.

We have also opened for legendary folk icon, Malcolm Holcombe in NYC, Boston, and Johnson City, TN.

We will be performing at the Portneuf Valley Brewery on August 1.

SLG: Super. I'll put it on the calendar. Describe this particular show at the Vinyl Perk. What can ppl expect if they come to this show?

BM: The show at Vinyl Perk should be an intimate one. We have never been, nor have we ever been to the wonderful town of Pocatello. If folks choose to come hear us, they’ll hear a unique style of acoustic music…acoustic soul. They’ll get a kick out of seeing us playing all these instruments at the same time and dig the full sound that comes from a duo. We are the only band on the bill that night.

The Vinyl Perk is a coffee house with a most impressive vinyl record collection. The business is open to all ages; music entertainment is free.

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

BM: The music industry is hurting. I hope and think that independent artists and small labels are going to help to rebuild a music industry that focuses on the art itself and not just appealing to the masses. This will be better for the listener as they will and now have so many groups to choose from. It will be competitive for the artists, but hopefully the best music will rise to the top.

As far as getting one’s music out there; touring, playing subway platforms, street corners, using the many internet mediums to share one’s music, even giving away CDs. There are so many avenues.

SLG: Do you have any videos on YouTube?


Cutting Words - Benyaro @ The Evening Muse
Benyaro and Samantha Crain & the Midnight Shivers singing The Avett Brothers Paranoia

SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

BM: Benyaro (self-released debut album) – 9 tracks - #162 on the National CMJ Top 200 in February 2009. It will be available at the Vinyl Perk show and is available at www.benyaro.com

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

BM: Myspace is the best way. www.myspace.com/benyaro. Facebook is also an option!

Column for July 8, 2009

The Civitans continue their weekly 5:00 p.m. Wednesday concert series this week with Ramona Awe's (Swingshift) new blues band, Soul Full of Blues at the Old Town Pavilion in downtown Pocatello. And it looks like it won’t rain! But don’t quote me; I’m no meteorologist. This week’s event is sponsored by Community Care Clinic and catered by Dutch Oven Delights; music until 8:00 p.m. (Revive @ Five 2009 schedule)

From 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Thursday the 9th, The First Ladies open for Truman on the Idaho State University Quad, sponsored by ISU’s Summer Programming. (ISU's 2009 summer schedule)

Truman is a brother duo out of Nashville, TN. Combining a range of influences from Stevie Wonder to John Mayer, the brothers create a pop/rock/soul sound that bmi.com calls "ear-tickling." Since Truman’s formation in 2005, the duo has been wowing audiences of 13 to 13,000. (interview - Truman)

The First Ladies have been performing live in the Boise, ID area for two years, with a style influenced by the Euro rock scene and the Northwest. Listen for “Heartbeat” and “Emotional Knapsack,” both written within the first few months of forming their band, and “Your Demons and Your Smile,” a fan favorite. The band is has released a 6-song EP called “This Boy Deserves a Train” and is shooting a video for “Heartbeat” next week, due to be released mid-August. (interview - The First Ladies)

When asked to comment on the local live music scene, Joel Smith said, “Locally, we've found that there are a few hidden gems among the casual hobbyists that make up a majority of Idaho's music scene.” He continued, “With the sprightly outlet of the internet, there's room for independent artists to find modest success in local and regional entertainment scenes. …we still believe in hope for the popular music scene to make a turnaround into a more creative and innovative direction and have dreams of one day being a part of this.” Find out more at www.firstladiesmusic.com.

Also on Thursday, John Shipe returns to the area to play at Sandbaggers on Yellowstone in Pocatello, 7:00 p.m. (map) Shipe was in the area late in May at the First National Bar. Originally from Oregon and now based in Yellowstone, Shipe is a solo acoustic guitarist, singer and songwriter.

“Most of my material is original, but I have a few covers for people who insist on them,” Shipe said, “If I don't know how to play the song they're clamoring for, I'll at least pull out a song from my batch that has the same energy,” and with nine CD’s under his belt in a dozen years, he can do that. Find out more at www.johnshipe.com. (interview - John Shipe)

On Friday, singer / songwriter George Christiansen from Denver, CO will perform acoustic folk rock at Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Ave. at 8:30 p.m. Find out more at www.tallmanwithguitar.com. And on Saturday, singer / songwriter Max Hay from Missoula, MT returns to the pub, performing a mix of Irish, blues, folk, and sharp-witted original songs starting at 8:30 p.m. Visit him online at www.maxhay.com.

Saturday the 11th, The Gorgeous Hussies and Broke City, both from Northern Utah, break in a new format at the Benton Street Bar & Grill, corner of Benton St. and S. 2nd Avenue. The place is going non-smoking and will be open to all ages. Live music at one end, pool tables at the other and some good eats in the middle, it’ll soon be a go-to place for entertainment in Pocatello.

I first heard of The Gorgeous Hussies some three years ago, shortly after they burst onto the Northern Utah music scene. They've had great successes all along the I-15 corridor, from Idaho to Southern Idaho. If you like Finn Riggins, I think you’ll like the Gorgeous Hussies. (interview - The Gorgeous Hussies)

People who enjoy big epic rock and jam bands will find a lot to love about The Gorgeous Hussies. The three-piece, with Jordon Olsen on guitar, John Chatelain on bass and drummer Ryan Smith, could be described as an alternative jam band. “To our knowledge we’re the first to describe music that way,” Olson commented, “but we think it’s the most fitting sub-genre that describes our live show.”

Expect music from The Gorgeous Hussies to be inspired by Umphrey's McGee, Perpetual Groove or fusion bands like Robert Walters and Galactic. And listen for a crowd favorite, "Pop Chanteuse," reminiscent of a Britney Spears timeline from nobody, to somebody, to father-doesn’t-want-anything-to-do-with-me-now-that-I’m-not-a-big-star.

The Hussies have recently released a DVD, “Luscious Ladies.” Find out more at www.thegorgeoushussies.com. And check out Broke City at www.myspace.com/brokecity.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Live Music in Idaho
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com

Local live music calendar: www.myspace.com/showmetheband
Interviews and music news: http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com