Promoting Live Music - Market the Band Online

Market the Band Online: how bands and musicians can use social networking to create an effective online presence

In days gone by, people would surf the net for information. Not so anymore. Now you have to get your information to the people via social networking sites.

The more social networking you do, the more fans you'll have, the larger the turnout at your gigs, and the more money you'll make. It's all about spending time to make money. And, the more social networking you do, the more sites on which you have a profile, the more Google hits you'll get, the more fans you'll get ....

It's the way of web 2.0.

Here are my Top Four Picks for a band presence on the Internet, plus a few more suggestions.

1. Your own website
I know, I know. Having your own website costs $. You'll have to decide as a band if you can afford one or not. Personally, I think it's worth the investment, as long as its a GOOD website. If you just CAN NOT afford your own website, try http://sites.google.com or www.weebly.com.

Free or professional, your band website has to have EVERYthing

• - Links to your other social networking sites
• - Band bio's (1-line, 1-paragraph, full bio) plus links to band member bio's.
• - Photographs: professional press photos (at least one landscape, one portrait, in both black & white and color) plus fan photos
• - Music: discography, .mp3's, videos ... if your site plays music in the background, make sure it doesn't auto-start.
• - Gig schedule: include complete information. Dates and times, who else is playing with links to their sites, complete venue address, link to venue's website, all ages or 21+, cost. I would suggest having a calendar view (Google Calendar is handy), but also have a list view. List views are much easier for your fans (and the media) to cut & paste into their OWN social networking sites.
• - Show your love. Include links to your best fans, colleague bands, venues and other companies that support your band (hotels, restaurants, local music media, promoters, etc.) and encourage them to link back to you.

Oh, and be sure to use text on your website. Gig posters are great, but the content isn't searchable. Use keywords to direct traffic to your site. No splash page, and avoid fancy javascript and such - it slows load time, and users can't cut & paste your content. And sure enough, you WANT users to cut & paste your logos, pictures and information in as many places as they want. Make it easy for 'em.

2. MySpace
MySpace is going the way of the dodo, but still THE place for bands on the web. In the past I'd suggest having lots of information on your MySpace page, but not anymore. Keep your MySpace page clean and quick-loading. Just simply use it for your band's basic information and use links to your own website and other social networking sites if the reader wants more information.

For an example of a slow-loading MySpace, visit www.myspace.com/iconlive, and time how long it takes the page to load. Seriously. I'd stand in line just to NOT visit their page.

Include:

• - music genre (be honest)
• - based from where (city, state)
• - pictures (press photos, a few fan photos, gig posters)
• - music
• - tour dates
• - full band bio
• - blog optional, but if you do MySpace blog, include the date in the title
• - embed one YouTube video at most; more than that makes the page slow to load
• - band members' full names, instruments
• - contact information
• - links to other social networking sites

Do NOT include a gazillion videos, pictures, gig posters, maps, banners, etc. on your page - especially if they're hosted elsewhere and only embedded on MySpace. Slows the load! If your MySpace page takes longer than 20 seconds to load, I'll close it. Keep It Simple, Stupid. Instead, use links.

3. Facebook
If you're going to Facebook (and I think you should), do it right.

• - Get a vanity url
• - Make sure all your privacy settings are public
• - Totally and completely fill out the information page
• - Include professional band photos plus fan photos
• - Use the event functions for your gigs (see how to write a good press release)
• - Each band member should have a Facebook too. They can suggest that their friends "like" your band page.

4. Twitter
Twitter hasn't taken off in Idaho ... yet. But it will. You should have a specific twitter for the band, plus how ever many band members are interested in tweeting. Try very hard to bandtweet at least 4 times each week, daily is better, but not more than 5 or 6 tweets in a day. Oh, and check your mentions (@'s); reply to fans and RT as often as possible.

Cross Link!
Make sure each of the above 4 sites have links to the other three, embed real-time updates where possible. MySpace, Facebook and Twitter can all talk to each other now, so when you status-update in one, it's automatically updated in the others. Make sure you've set them so they'll do that.

Bookmark and Share!
Wherever possible, include bookmarking and share buttons (I know, I know ... I need to do that here too). Your share buttons should include Myspace, Facebook and Twitter, also Digg, del.icio.us, Reddit and StumbleUpon at least.

Optional, but good ideas
Wikipedia
Yes, you should be on wiki. Write a good band bio and post it up there.

YouTube
If you have music videos, it's a must. But even if you don't, YouTube can be used to host 30- to 90-second commercials for your band, with background music and/or with spoken word. Consider vlogs and encourage fans to link to and embed.

Blog
A great way to connect with fans. But if you start a blog, keep it up-to-date with a post at least once a week. If you can't commit to doing that, then don't even start. I'd suggest Blogger or WordPress (has better built-in social networking) and RSS feed (FeedBurner) it back to your website and other social networking sites via status updates.

Flickr or Photobucket
Personally, I like Flickr better. But a picture / video hosting site is a super terrific way to increase hits to your sites. Be sure to label each photo with your band name (again, increases searchability). Use their slideshows and embed on your own website (not MySpace).

Mailing list
A good email list is still the best social networking tool out there. Try to send an email no more than once a week, but not less than once a month. Keep it newsy but short. Include: a brief paragraph about recent events and upcoming gigs, plus links to all your other social networking sites with each email.

I like www.FanBridge.com. Check it out and see if it suits your needs. FanBridge makes four incredibly effective suggestions to build your mailing list:

* Give something away in exchange for an email address! By offering a free sticker, mp3 (which you can email them automatically via FanBridge), button, or even a free hug as a fan incentive you are much more likely to get new fans to
sign up.

* Announcing that you have an email list from on stage during the show may seem cheesy, but it's a sure fire way to know that your audience will hear what you have to say. You could even mention that people who sign up for the list get a discount on your merch (maybe a dollar or two off... it will be worth it) or they are entered in a giveaway for a free CD or t-shirt.

* Have a friend go around the room with a clipboard, or direct them to the merch table where they can sign up. This person should be friendly and excited about the music so that fans will want to join in on the fun. If you ask a person one-on-one to sign up for an email list, they are much more likely to respond positively. You can also have this person stand by the door when people walk in to make sure no fans get missed.

* If you have an extra laptop computer, you can use the FanBridge Merch Table Signup form. This is a downloadable program that you can open full screen on your computer and it lets fans type in their info directly. The program saves it all to a pre-formatted file on your desktop that you can import into your account whenever you are next connected to the internet.

Texting list (known as a mobile list)
Personally, I don't like getting gig announcements from bands via text message. But many people do. You should have that option available to your fans. FanBridge does that too.

Other network sites of interest
There are tons and tons of websites out there for bands and music these days, effective to varying degrees. Here are a few of my favorites: tumbler.com, last.fm, cdbaby, reverbnation, sonicbids, iLike.com, rhapsody.

See also:
How to Write a Good Band Bio
How to Write a Good Press Release
Online Event Websites

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

Column for May 26, 2010

Idaho State University’s summer concert series (full schedule) kicks off this week with a concert on the quad (view on map), Thursday the 27th. Ryanhood is set to headline at 7:00 p.m., with The Bank Band opening at 6:00. Concerts are free and open to the public of all ages. Visit www.isu.edu/union/summer for their full schedule.

Ryanhood is an acoustic folk and rock duo, Ryan Green and Cameron Hood, based from Tucson, AZ. The guitar and vocal duo first played at ISU several years ago, opening for Better Than Ezra. Since that time, Ryanhood has toured with Jason Mraz and performed with Kelly Clarkson, Train, Third Eye Blind and more. They combine comedic banter and music, making for an entertaining and engaging performance.

The Tucson Area Music Awards have honored Ryanhood with best Band of the Year, Rock Band, Male Vocalist, Guitarist, Songwriter and more. They have a new album on the way, produced by Grammy-winning producer Ross Hogarth (Ziggy Marley, Melissa Etheridge).

Expect soulful, tight vocal harmonies and impressive guitar playing, reminiscent of Dave Matthews or John Mayer. Visit www.ryanhood.com.

Bank, an indie rock / pop band from Boise, ID, will open. Visit www.myspace.com/banktheband.

The Icon, an all-ages live music venue on N. Main Street in Pocatello (view on map), announced three concerts this week. On Thursday the 27th, Foundation (website), a hardcore rock band from Atlanta, GA, headlines with support from Rotting Out, Backtrack and Harms Way. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; tickets are $8 in advance through www.smithstix.com.

On Tuesday, June 1st, Corey Feldman & the Truth Movement, from Los Angeles, CA, is in concert at The Icon, supporting their recent release, “Technology Analogy.” VH!’s Daisy (Rock of Love) is scheduled to be there and local guitarist and singer / songwriter Travis Shipley is on the bill to open. Tickets are $10 in advance. Visit CoreyFeldman.net for more.

Wednesday, June 2nd, Good Old War, a rock trio from Philadelphia, PA, takes the Icon’s stage with Yukon Blonde, Audra Mae and Mess of Me. Find more on the headliner at www.myspace.com/goodoldwar. The Icon’s full schedule and links to ticket outlets are online at www.myspace.com/iconlive.

On Friday, May 28, Boy Eats Drum Machine, a.k.a. Jon Ragel from Portland, OR, performs at the Flipside Lounge on S. Main Street in Pocatello (view on map). He is a DJ, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist with four percussive recordings under his belt. The most recent, “Hoop + Wire,” released this year. For more, visit http://boyeatsdrummachine.com.

The Vinyl Perk, a coffee shop and record store on S. Main Street in Pocatello (view on map), has two concerts of interest this week. Friday the 28th, the locally-based Blind Autumn plays jazz / rock fusion. They mix funk, reggae, blues, and jazz, creating variety in their songs.

“Some of our songs could be considered straight-up rock while others are a lot jazzier,” said drummer Patrick Kennedy about their music. “We have an alto sax player which makes us different than a typical rock band. Right now all of our songs are instrumental, but we hope to add in some vocals in the future.” Read my interview with Blind Autumn for more.

And on Wednesday, June 2, see a special concert at The Perk with Tyler Fortier, an Americana folk rocker from Eugene, OR. The show starts at 6:00 p.m., free and open to all ages. Fortier’s most recent CD, “This Love Is Fleeting,” is a collection of beautiful folk with a country foundation and a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll. He also plays at The Cellar in Idaho Falls on June 1. For more, visit www.myspace.com/tylerfortier.

Swingshift makes their end-of-month return visit to Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Ave. in Pocatello (view on map), on Friday the 28th. Music starts at 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages. Swingshift plays jazz, vintage rock and pop.

On Saturday the 29th, two areas of music entertainment in the pub: on the main floor, a free show with singer / songwriter Pete Mason from Libbey, MT, plays indie acoustic folk. Visit www.myspace.com/waysideblue.

And upstairs in the loft of Portneuf Valley Brewing, Marcus Eaton makes a happy return to the area, playing contemporary rock with Kevin Rogers, starting at 9:00 p.m. There is limited seating; $10 tickets available now at www.marcuseaton.com.

A final grace note: tickets are on sale now for Rock the Falls 2010, a concert scheduled for August 26th at Sandy Downs in Idaho Falls (view on map). This year, Cinderella, Warrant, Kip Winger and Royal Bliss are on the bill; the concert will be hosted by VH1’s Ambre Lake. Advance tickets are available online at 78productions.com.

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

Revive @ Five Summer CONCERTS, 2010

The 2010 Bannock Civitans Revive @ Five summer concert series for 2010

*Each Wednesday starting on May 26, there will be live music, food and booths by local merchants from 5 to 8 p.m. at

The Old Town Pavilion (view on map)
420 N Main St., Pocatello, ID 83204

May 26: Music by Seven Feet Below, food by ISU Credit Union Relay 4 Life team fundraiser. Sponsored by Prime Time Auctions.

June 2: Music by The Market Band, food by Texas Roadhouse. Ribbon cutting ceremony with Dorsey Hill.

June 9: Music by Hot Flash, food by The Depot Sports Bar. Sponsored by Portneuf Medical Center.

June 16: Music by Swifter Currents, food by the Sand Trap Civitan Relay 4 Life team fundraiser. Sponsored by American Family Insurance.

June 23: Music by Spunk Pharm, food by Molto Caldo Pizzeria. Sponsored by Zions Bank.

June 30: Music by American Steel, food by Grecian Key. Sponsored by Kruse Insurance.

July 7: Music by Elvis has Left the Building, food by Out to Lunch. Sponsored by Old Town Merchants.

July 14: Music by Country Drive, food by Kaloon Express. Sponsored by Community Care Clinic.

July 21: Music by Soul Full of Blues, food by Ruby Tuesday. Sponsored by Local First of Greater Pocatello.

July 28: Music by Somewhere in the Middle, food by Grecian Key. Sponsored by Fort Hall Casino Festival Week.

Aug. 4: Music by Rocky Watson, food by Texas Roadhouse. Sponsored by Idaho Central Credit union.

Aug. 11: Music by Strings Attached, food by PVs Pasta and Vino. Sponsored by the Bannock County Bluegrass Festival.

Aug. 18: Music by Kyd J, food by Ghetto Dogs. Sponsored by Snake River Coffee.

Aug. 25: Music by Swingshift, food by Sand Trap. Sponsored by Idaho Food Bank and ISU Credit Union.

Sept. 1: Last session, 5 to 9 p.m. Music by Plain Jane, food by El Herradero. Sponsored by Health Department Prepardness Fair.

Upcoming concerts at The Icon

The Icon (view on map)
1235 N Main St
Pocatello, ID 83204, US
All ages. Run by douches from N. Utah. I don't like these guys; I don't like the venue. But they book some pretty good bands.

FOUNDATION

w/ Rotting Out, Backtrack, Harms Way
Thursday May 27
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

COREY FELDMAN & THE TRUTH MOVEMENT

w/ Daisy (from VH1's Rock of Love)
, Travis Shipley
Tuesday June 1
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$10 adv tix

GOOD OLD WAR

w/ Yukon Blonde, Audra Mae, Mess of Me
Wednesday June 2
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$10 adv tix

BLACK BREATH

w/ Arsenic Addiction, Occidis
Thursday June 10
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

RUFIO

w/ The Higher, Goodnight Caulfield,
Loomis & The Lust, Danny the Skeleton Horse
Monday June 14
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$10 adv tix

A SUDDEN TRAGEDY

w/ Take Flight
Tuesday June 15
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

US FROM OUTSIDE

w/ Evelynn, Ghost Among Us
Tuesday June 22
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

HEROES ARE FOREVER

w/ Above and Below, The Ceeps
Friday June 25
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

YOUNG & DIVINE

w/ local wanted
Wednesday June 30
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

MONSTERS SCARE YOU

w/ A Shattered Hope, Covendetta
Monday July 19
@ the ICON
Door: 6:30 PM | Show: 7 PM
$8 adv tix

Idaho State University Summer CONCERTS, 2010

Idaho State University Summer CONCERTS, 2010
www.isu.edu/union/summer/concerts

*All opening bands start at 6 p.m. on the ISU quad with main band starting at 7 p.m.

Ryanhood May 27th
Ryan Hood
with opening band The Bank Band

In three years time, the acoustic guitar duo has graduated from performing subway stations to touring theaters with platinum selling artist Jason Mraz and gone from seling self-made CDs to recording their forthcoming record with a Grammy winning producer.

Shevy Smith June 3rd
Shevy Smith
with opening band Nyr Lif

"I guess growing up surrounded by miles of open spaces tends to make you rely on your imagination for a lot of entertainment.” Growing up on a farm in central Kansas, Shevy Smith began her ventures into music by way of classical piano at age four. With influences like Tom Petty, Jackson Browne, and Sheryl Crow, she quickly transferred that energy into hours of quality time spent with her guitar.


Scratch Track June 10th
Scratch Track
with opening band Sober Down

Blending hip-hop, rock, soul, and blues, SCRATCH TRACK brings something refreshing. Washington Square News called them “Style bending, mind-bending, and undeniably original.” Guitarist Jason Hamlin and vocalist/beatboxer David “DJ” Lee continue to evolve their live, acoustic performance into a powerful celebration of sound.

Mike Sullivan June 17th
Mike Sullivan
with opening band Danielle

Singer/guitarist Sullivan delivers an organic, low-key, oh-so-smooth performance that benefits from musicianship that, while subtle, has an expert touch.


Ladd Smith June 24th
Ladd Smith
with opening band Soul Serene

Ladd Smith was born in Stillwater, Oklahoma September 21/22 at Midnight in 1982. But To hear Ladd Smith sing & play, your ears will tell you that you’re hearing a veteran singer/songwriter.

John Rush July 1st
John Rush
with opening band Nate Fowler

“John Rush takes you on a musical journey by singing and playing guitar, bass, harmonica, piano, sax, keyboard and percussion. John Rush plays Original Music and Covers depending upon what the audience requests.John has been called a “ Human iPod.

Cary Judd July 8th
Cary Judd
with opening band John Allred

CARY JUDD undoubtedly redefines the one-man-show. Cary begins each show by playing a riff or progression that finds itself embellished in a swirl of drum and guitar loops that he masterfully creates with a series of electronic pedals at his feet. Cary has opened for acts such as Pedro the Lion, Of Montreal, ,Life House, Rooney, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yelstin, David Ryan Harris, This Providence, Amber Pacific, Nerf Herder, Reel Big Fish, Love Story Hero, and Missing Persons.

The Clumsy Lovers July 15th
The Clumsy Lovers
with opening band Mountain Grip

The Clumsy Lovers, like so many bands, started out in their parent’s basements and scrounged about for gigs. Their unique blend of celtic, bluegrass, and Rock influences made that search a little easier, and soon the band was playing a fairly steady schedule of weekend gigs at local pubs.

Zane Williams July 22nd
Zane Williams
with opening band Audio Moonshine

ZANE WILLIAMS honed his songwriting and performing skills on the road. After winning several major song contests (John Lennon “Song of the Year”, CMT/NSAI grand prize, and two categories of the Merlefest Christ Austin song contest), So far this year, Zane has picked up a Lennon Award from the John Lennon Song Contest for his inspirational anthem “Hope is a Flame”.

Steve Means July 29th
Steve Means
with opening band Hendr 9

Combining smooth grooves with powerful lyrics and infectious hooks, 22 year old singer/songwriter Steve Means soulful brew of pop music has earned him a rapidly growing national fanbase. His funk-infused acoustic sound has drawn comparisons to everyone from Stevie Wonder and Marc Broussard to John Mayer.Being a triple threat songwriter, musician, and performer, Steve Means has hooks that satisfy even the most discriminating listeners.

Column for May 19, 2010

The southeast Idaho live music scene is rockin’ hard this week, with two metal concerts of note. There is also family-oriented music entertainment and a few local shows of interest for evening music entertainment.

Tonight, Wednesday the 19th, Job for a Cowboy headlines a heavy metal concert at The Icon on N. Main Street in Pocatello. Whitechapel, Cattle Decapitation, Lidsore and Fire in the Skies are also on the billing. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with $13 tickets available in advance at www.smithstix.com. The Icon is open to all ages.

Formed in 2003, Job for a Cowboy is a death metal band based from Glendale, Arizona. Their debut EP, “Doom” was released in 2005, and the band was signed with Metal Blade Records. “Genesis,” their first full-length recording was released in 2007, peaking at #54 on the Billboard 200, selling 13,000 copies in its first week.

Described as a “straightforwardly brutal act” by Rolling Stone Magazine, Job for a Cowboy is fronted by Jonny Davy on vocals with guitarists bobby Thompson and Al Glassman, bassist Brent Riggs and Jon Rice on drums. They’re on tour in support of the most recent release, “Ruination.” For more, visit http://jfacmetal.com.

If classic metal is more your taste, on Thursday the 20th, Ratt is in concert with The Frank Hannon Band (Tesla) at the Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium. The locally-based punk and metal band, Scratch, is scheduled to open the show. Tickets are $29 - $34, available at 78productions.com, CD World in Idaho Falls or at Budget Tapes & Records in Pocatello.

Ratt is perhaps known best as a glam metal band from the 1980’s, producing six albums between 1983 and 1999. Based from San Diego, CA, Ratt enjoyed significant commercial success with the singles "Round and Round," "Wanted Man," "Lay It Down," "You're in Love," "Way Cool Jr." and "Back For More," selling some 11 million records in the U.S. and over 20 million world wide.

Named by VH1 as one of its "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock," Ratt is currently touring in support of their most recent CD, “Infestation,” released last month after an 11-year recording hiatus. Vocalist Stephen Pearcy is still the voice of the band, with Warren DeMartini and Carlos Cavazo on guitars, Robbie Crane on bass guitar and drummer Bobby Blotzer. For more, visit www.therattpack.com.

For some great family music entertainment in Idaho Falls, check out Riders in the Sky, a western music and comedy group presented by the Idaho Falls Arts Council, on Thursday the 20th. Tickets are $28; call (208) 522-0471.

Riders in the Sky began performing in 1977. Since that time, the group has won two Grammy Awards: “Woody's Roundup: A Rootin' Tootin' Collection of Woody's Favorite Songs” won a Grammy in 2001 for "Best Musical Album For Children," and “Monsters, Inc. Scream Factory Favorites” won for "Best Musical Album For Children" in 2003. For more, visit www.ridersinthesky.com.

Country and rock are on tap at Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello on Friday the 21st with Unstable Ground. Music entertainment starts at 8:30, no cover and open to all ages. The band is lead by Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook on guitars and vocals, bassist Chris Willock and Eric Stanley on drums also contribute vocally.

Holbrook and Taylor of Unstable Ground started playing acoustic sets 2001. In 2007, the band became a classic rock cover band, now playing in pubs and bars around the region. Expect classic rock mixed with modern rock and a touch of country. For more, visit http://unstablegroundband.com.

On Saturday, acoustic singer / songwriter Matt Murdock takes the pub’s stage starting at 8:30. Murdock is also known for his collaboration with Almosta Band, a locally based roots rock group.

Also on Saturday the 22nd, The Flipside Lounge on S. Main Street in Pocatello is pleased to bring Slow Trucks, from San Francisco, CA. Music entertainment starts at 9:00 p.m.

Formed in 2007, Slow Trucks plays indie rock, describing their own music as “a hook cranked through a big muff pedal, liquid bass lines and a pummeling backbeat.” Guitarist David Mitchell and drummer Melissa Funk joined with Billy Carter on bass in late 2009 and have a full-length record on the way with Future Farmer Records.

“We like to play music. We like to party. We like to play music and party,” Slow Trucks writes from their website, “musical comfort food, perfect for those of us who still occasionally break out that Treepeople CD or fantasize about an Archers of Loaf reunion.” For more, visit www.myspace.com/slowtrucksband.

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

Column for May 12, 2010

This week, the southeast Idaho live music scene showcases the music genres for which it is best known, acoustic singer / songwriters, blues, folk and Americana. To sum up, let’s call it groovin’ acoustic.

Senang Wine Bar & Tapas Bistro on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello continues their weekly live music entertainment with Elvis Has Left the Building, Thursday May 13th, starting at 7:00 p.m. Music entertainment is free and open to customers of all ages.

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.

Elvis Has Left the Building follows up on the following night, at Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Ave., on Friday the 14th. One of ELB’s award winning songwriters, Angier Wills, will join Randy Johnson and Matt Murdoch on stage at the Portneuf Valley Brewery in a Writer’s in the Round format. Entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages. Visit http://site.elbinfo.com for more.

On Saturday the 15th, Father Bob Forrest and Dr. Bob Fisher will play acoustic folk and rock in the pub, starting at 8:30 p.m. Forrest will be playing his newest custom built instruments at the show.

The locally-based funk and blues band, Phat Bones, is playing on both Friday and Saturday nights at Marigolds Wine and Delicacies, located at 1800 Flandro Dr. in Pocatello, in the Gold's Gym plaza; Marigolds is owned by Stacey Raben and Jean Christensen. Visit www.marigoldswine.com for their upcoming events and www.myspace.com/phatboneband for more on the band.

Idaho Falls is groovin’ this weekend too. Jeremiah Maxey, from Park City, UT, is scheduled to play at The Cellar in Idaho Falls on Friday the 14th. Preview his music at www.myspace.com/jeremiahmaxey.

And Nick Jaina, from Portland, OR, is at Vino Rosso’s in Idaho Falls on Friday the 14th, with a follow-up show at The Cellar on Saturday the 15th. Jaina is touring in support of his new CD, “A Bird In The Opera House,” a carefully crafted studio album. Learn more at www.myspace.com/nickjaina.

Rockin’ live music shows are in the works for next week. Tickets are on sale now for Cattle Decapitation, Job for a Cowboy and Whitechapel at the Icon, N. Main Street in Pocatello, for Wednesday the 19th. Tickets available at www.smithstix.com.

Tickets are also on sale now for the iconic metal band, Ratt, in concert at the Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium on Thursday the 10th. The Frank Hannon Band, Frank Hannon of Tesla fame, is on the billing too. Visit http://78productions.com, CD World in Idaho Falls or Budget Tapes & Records in Pocatello.

And Idaho Falls Arts Council presents: Riders in the Sky at the Colonial Theater in Idaho Falls on the 20th. Tickets are $28; call (208) 522-0471.

Riders in the Sky is a western music and comedy group originally formed in 1977. Their act is family-friendly; they are sometimes considered a children's band. They have won two Grammy Awards and have written and performed music for major motion pictures, including "Woody's Roundup" from “Toy Story 2” and Pixar's “For the Birds.”

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

Column for May 5, 2010

Tomorrow evening, Thursday the 6th, the Pocatello-based fusion rock group The Kratz Bros Band is set to play at Senang’s Wine Bar and Tapas Bistro in the warehouse district of Pocatello. Music entertainment starts at 7:00 p.m. and is open to the public of all ages.

The Kratz Bros Band is the present day version of an original music project by Luke and John Kratz. Previously a duo with occasional guest musicians, they now have evolved into a full fusion rock band that blends 60's-style folk songwriting with electric and acoustic world music sounds and rhythms.

You can find the Kratz Bros Band playing concerts at festivals, parties, bars, benefits, and farmer's markets in East Idaho and Western Wyoming. Locally, they have frequented Senang’s, Portneuf Valley Brewing, Hooligan's, the First National Bar and outdoor concerts on Idaho State University’s quad.

In 2008, John Kratz released a CD, “Onewords,” and Luke Kratz released “Memories of the Future.” Both recordings as well as live show bootlegs are available for download from MySpace, or request to purchase them at the show. For more, visit www.myspace.com/kratzbrosband.

On Friday, May 7th, The Flipside Lounge celebrates their official Grand Opening with food catered by Pasta Vino’s and live music from singer / songwriters Dan Hillebrant, Travis Shipley and the barber shop vocals of Soundscape.

Located at 117 S. Main Street in downtown Pocatello, the Flipside Lounge is a beer and wine bar, open to those 21+. The Grand Opening events are in conjunction with the First Friday Art Walk, beginning at 4:00 p.m. and through the night. Find out more about the Flipside on Facebook at www.facebook.com/flipsidelounge.

Also on Friday the 7th, Portneuf Valley Brewing is pleased to welcome Crown Point to their stage. Acoustic music entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages.

Formed in late 2009, Crown Point is an alternative pop/rock band from Portland, OR. Crown Point plays memorable, danceable rock. The band has impressively burst onto the scene, having played SXSW already and touring in over 30 states so far. A four-piece group, each member has lead-singer vocal quality, and all share in the songwriting and arranging process.

Expect a related blend of music styles from Crown Point, three or four rockers, some mid-tempo pop/rock tracks and a couple ballads. Guitarists Russell Stafford and Jon Davidson are joined by Robert Finn on bass and Tyler Chen on drums. Stafford and Davidson have perfomed in the area before, but this is their first time bringing the whole band.

“We've played some fun shows with artists like Mat Kearney, Augustana, Puddle Of Mudd, We As Human, Russell Crowe, A Change Of Pace and more,” Stafford said, “and played venues like the Knitting Factory and the Crystal Ballroom. All big shows and acts aside, we have a special place in our heart for smaller towns and smaller shows; getting the chance to meet and build relationships with fans is what it's all about!”

Crown Point is currently working on their debut release. Jeff Johnson (Jet Black Stare, Adelitas Way) has produced three tracks, and Grammy-nominated Travis Wyrick (P.O.D., 10 Years) is set to produce the rest of the album. The band travels to Vino Rosso in Idaho Falls on Saturday the 9th. For more, visit www.facebook.com/crownpointband or find them on MySpace.

Fans of the locally-based group Elvis Has Left the Building will be pleased to hear of their show this Friday at Marigolds Wine on Flandro Drive in the Gold’s Gym Plaza, Pocatello, a new venue for the band. Music starts at 7:00 p.m. Find out more at http://site.elbinfo.com.

This weekend, on both Friday and Saturday nights, Phat Bone is set to play at Taps Bar on Garrett Way in Pocatello, starting at 9:00 p.m., no cover at the door, open to those 21+.

Phat Bone was also formed in late 2009. Fronted by Steve Sullivan on guitar and vocals and backed by bassist Pete Snyder from Idaho Falls and Josh Owen on drums, the trio plays funked up rock and blues. For more, visit www.myspace.com/phatboneband.

Also this weekend, Pocatello’s rock cover band, Kaught Lookin’, is scheduled at Duffy’s Lounge on N. Main Street in downtown Pocatello. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., no cover and open to those 21+.

Kaught Lookin plays rock from Lynyrd Skynyrd to Alice in Chains along with favorites from today’s new rock, like Buckcherry. The band has forthcoming dates in American Falls, Idaho Falls and is slated to play the POW-MIA rally this summer. For more, visit www.myspace.com/kaughtlookin.

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

Interview with Crown Point

Who: Crown Point
What: Alt. rock / pop band in concert
Where: Portneuf Valley Brewing, s. 2nd Ave., Pocatello ID 83201 - map
When: Friday, May 7, 2010 at 8:30 p.m.

I've written about Crown Point before; two of their members have played solo shows in the area before. But this is the first time the entire band will make an appearance. I caught up with guitarist Russel Stafford to find out more about what we can expect from Crown Point.


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?

RS: We're an alt/pop/rock band. Our typical show consists of three or four rockers, some midtempo pop/rock tracks, and a couple ballads. In the past year, we've played everything from 50-seat coffeehouses to 2000-person arenas and everything in between, and as a result enjoy playing acoustic sets as much as plugged-in shows. We've also lied to get an opening slot at a polka festival.

SLG: Hilarious! What are the band members' first and last names and what instruments do they play?

RS:
Russell Stafford--vocals, guitar
Jon Davidson--vocals, guitar
Robert Finn--bass
Tyler Chen--drums

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

RS: We're from everywhere! I (Russ) am from New Zealand; Jon is from Michigan; Rob is from Nevada, and Tyler is from Oregon.

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

RS: Jon and I have played in Pocatello and Idaho Falls probably six or seven times by now, but this is our first time bringing the full band to the area!

We've played some fun shows with artists like Mat Kearney, Augustana, Puddle Of Mudd, We As Human, Russell Crowe, A Change Of Pace, and more, and played venues like the Knitting Factory and the Crystal Ballroom. All big shows and acts aside, we have a special place in our heart for smaller towns and smaller shows; getting the chance to meet and build relationships with fans is what it's all about!

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

RS: We'll be at Portneuf Valley Brewing in Pocatello on Friday at 8:30. (map) It's a free show, all-ages, and it's all us, all night long!

Saturday, we'll be at Vino Rosso in Idaho Falls at 8. (map) This one is free as well, and it's 21+. Come to both shows, and we'll give you a special surprise.

SLG: (laughing) Ok. 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?

RS: The best way to get your music out there? Play memorable shows, care about your fans, release quality material. The elusive 'big break' is rare; hard work will produce the same result.

SLG: Do you have any favorite videos of your band or your music on YouTube? If so, what is the url?

RS: We've got some goofy "Bedroom Sessions" videos out there. They're not as creepy as they sound. You can check 'em out at youtube.com/jondavidsonmusic.



SLG: Recordings? If so, where did you record? Who produced your recording? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

RS: We're currently working on our debut release! Jeff Johnson (Jet Black Stare, Adelitas Way) produced three tracks, and we're most likely going to have the Grammy-nominated Travis Wyrick (P.O.D., 10 Years) produce the rest of the album.

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

RS: Fans can contact us via our MySpace, www.myspace.com/crownpointmusic, or our Facebook, www.facebook.com/crownpointband. They can also text us via Google Voice at 503-3-TEXTUS.

[The above interview was made possible via the offices of Mandy Krohn, PR Coordinator of Crown Point Entertainment, LLC. 503.267.7055. www.crownpointband.com]