Column for February 24, 2010

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Column for February 17, 2010

Yesterday was Mardi Gras, but the celebration continues with the ISU Jazz Band in concert tonight, February 17th, at Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello, upstairs in the loft. There is no cover; concert is from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

The Idaho State University jazz ensembles are under the direction of Dr. Patrick Brooks and Kevin York. The jazz bands host the annual ISU Jazz Festival, just held two weeks ago on February 6, 2010 with guest artist Andy Martin on trombone. Visit www.isu.edu/departments/bands to keep up to date on the ISU music department’s schedule of concerts.

On Thursday the 18th, Nyr Lif is scheduled to appear at Budget Tapes & Records on 5th Avenue in Pocatello. “We are playing a stand-in acoustic show at Budget,” wrote Nyr Lif from their website. The appearance is in support of their recordings, a full-length CD, “Two Legs Broken” and an EP, “Experimentallation,” both of which will be available for purchase at the store.

“(It) should be a fun chill time.” Start time is 4:00 p.m.; visit www.myspace.com/nyrlif for more information.

A number of locally-based and popular rock cover bands are playing the popular bars this weekend.

On Friday night only, the 19th, Kaught Lookin’ is scheduled to play at Duffy’s Tavern on Main Street in downtown Pocatello. Music starts at 9:00 p.m. No cover, and Duffy’s is open to those 21+.

Kaught Lookin’ is comprised largely of the founding members of the former band Exit 69 - Rick Veilleux on guitars, bassist Mark Clawson and drummer Tony Roberts, with vocalist Ed Horn. They play classic southern rock and current modern rock covers with a few originals, online at www.myspace.com/kaughtlookin.

American Steel plays Casey’s in American Falls this weekend, both Friday and Saturday nights, February 19th and 20th. Music starts at 9:00 p.m.

American Steel plays mostly cover tunes in local bars around the area. They fun with the crowd, small costume changes and sound effects add a theatrical and humorous element to the show. Expect to hear popular favorites, "Rebel Yell," "Mustang Sally" and "Low Rider." Guitarist Tracy Turner said, “we play classic rock, funk, blues, country rock and sometimes improvise. I think we most appeal to our fans as a band having fun; that is the secret for us - fun.”

Turner is joined by Darrell Martin on drums, vocalist Kat Whitnah, Marci Ridley on keyboards, and Ray Rodriquez on bass. The group has been performing together for a few years and is based from Pocatello.

Visit American Steel online at www.myspace.com/americansteel4u.

And Stiff Richard is playing rock covers at Muddy’s in Idaho Falls this weekend.

Back at Portneuf Valley Brewing, New Soul Authority is set to play jazz, funk, R&B and soul on Friday the 19th. Music entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m.

And the Pocatello-based group the Katz Brothers Band will play indie psychedelic rock and world music in the pub starting at 8:30 p.m. No cover, and the brewery is open to all ages.

The Kratz Bros. Band includes John Kratz on guitars and vocals, Luke Kratz playing keyboards and vocals, Dorian Hitchcock, cello, and drummer Derrick Strang. The band, now based in Pocatello , Idaho, was formed after John moved back to Idaho from New York City in the summer of 2008.

All of the Kratz Brothers’ original songs are written by John and Luke, fusing rock, folk and world music styles. They also play some familiar songs in a similar style.

"The Kratz Bros. Band is proud to be a part of the local original music scene of SE Idaho,” John said in a recent interview, and they encourage music lovers to support original music as much as possible by organizing and attending shows, buying albums, and giving feedback online and by dancing at the shows.

Find the Kratz brothers online at www.myspace.com/kratzbrosband.

On Saturday the 20th, Flying Monkey Booking presents a hard rock and metal show at the Elk’s Lodge, corner of Main and Benton Streets in Pocatello. Music starts at 7:00 p.m. Attila, These Cities Passing and more are on the bill.

Also on Saturday the 20th, the post-grunge alt. rock band 2am Logic is in concert at the Shilo Convention Center in Idaho Falls. Show starts at 8:00 p.m.

One last note: The First Ladies, a three-piece rock / pop band from Boise, Idaho has just released their CD, “How To Make Old Friends Instantly.” It is an 11-song album, officially released through their website, www.facebook.com/thefirstladies.

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

Column for February 10, 2010

Valentine’s Day this weekend – here are some choice spots to take your sweetheart for a night on the town with live music. Your choice, from rock to pop to acoustic singer / songwriters.

On Friday the 12th, 2am Logic is playing at the Peppertree Lounge in Idaho Falls. I just caught one of their shows last week, and am ever-more impressed with this band’s sound each time I hear them.

2am Logic describes their sound as alt. rock, and I suppose that suits. But I’d describe it more as a heavy post-grunge. Vocalist and front man Todd Thompson has an unmistakable, deep, throaty voice that is both sultry and edgy. As I’ve heard their music develop over the past two years, I hear their songs getting more heavy, but a far cry from metal. Their sound is a perfect blend for fans of old-time Seattle grunge and fans of hard rock.

The show at the Peppertree has no cover, starts at 8:00 p.m., and is open to those 21+. For more on 2am Logic, visit www.myspace.com/2amlogic.

Also on Friday the 12th, in Pocatello, Nyr Lif will perform a set at Red Hot Roasters, located at 737 E. Clark Street, for their open mic night starting at 8:00 p.m. Nyr Lif is a locally-based duo with guitarists Casey Cathey and Shawn Barkdull. They play acoustic, ambient music, perfect for the venue. Music entertainment is free and open to all ages. Find out more at www.myspace.com/nyrlif.

Portneuf Valley Brewing, on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello, has a weekend of romantic live music on tap with singer / songwriters Father Bob and Dr. Bob taking the stage on Friday night, starting at 8:30 p.m. Both are Pocatello-based, humorous and fun; expect to be entertained musically and with laughs. I’m told Dr. Bob has a new ukulele, so watch out for that.

And on Saturday the 13th, The Tiki Gawds are scheduled to peform in the pub at 8:30 p.m. The group is set to play Hawaiian-themed and other love songs, folk, pop and rock for a perfect Valentine’s date. Portneuf Valley Brewing charges no cover for live music entertainment, and they are open to all ages.

Also on Saturday the 13th, The Icon has a great line-up of regional rock and pop bands set to play at their venue, located on N. Main Street in Pocatello. The Icon sells tickets in advance through smithstix.com, doors open at 6:30 p.m. and open to all ages.

On the bill this Saturday, Madison Lights, All Bright, The Trademark and Goodnight Sunrise. Music starts at 7:00 p.m.

I first started writing about Goodnight Sunrise in early 2008. I finally saw them play live some 6 months later and was very impressed. They've got the sound, the look, and they played tight. Moreover, the song structures are complex and diverse. I had a blast, and I hope you will too.

Goodnight Sunrise is exactly that kind of pop rock that makes you smile and bop your head. The single, It’s the Stare, made me want to get up and clean house or something. Definitely move-your-feet kind of music. Their CD's get regular rotation in my CD player, and in my kids' players too. These guys are good. Very good.

“We like to call the music we play ‘pop & roll’ or ‘riff pop,’ said bassist Sam Smetana. “It's nothing ridiculously flashy or out of the ordinary, but we focus on writing pop-structured songs with fun riffs. We write honest and personal lyrics about life on the road and how it's shaped how we live.”

Fans are happy with the honesty in their music. Goodnight Sunrise’s singles “It’s The Stare” and “On Your Birthday” are fan favorites.

Vocalist Dan Murphy fronts Goodnight Sunrise, backed by Smetana on bass, guitarist Justin Brenner and Mike Ogle on drums. The band, based from Helena, MT, has been together since mid-2006.

In the past four years, Goodnight Sunrise has been on fourteen regional and national tours. The band has released video of a tour documentary on YouTube and has produced two studio albums. They also have a song featured on the compilation album, “Rockin’ Romance.” Now, how perfect is that for a Valentine’s weekend show!

Goodnight Sunrise will have CD’s for sale at the show. Find out more at www.goodnightsunrise.com.

One last note: Somewhere In the Middle is playing a Mardi Gras show at Hooligan’s on Tuesday the 16th. This week, everyone is celebrating New Orleans, right? Music starts at 8:00 p.m.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
For in-depth interviews, visit slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Interview with Goodnight Sunrise

Who: Goodnight Sunrise
What: Rock / Pop band in concert
Where: The Icon, 1235 N. Main Street, Pocatello, Idaho
When: Saturday, February 13, 2010, doors open 6:30 p.m.

I first started writing about Goodnight Sunrise in early 2008. I finally saw them play live almost a year later and was VERY impressed. They've got the sound, the look, and they were tight. Moreover, the song structures are complicated and diverse. I had a blast, and I hope you will too.

Goodnight Sunrise is exactly that kind of pop rock that makes you smile and bop your head. Just hearing the single, It’s the Stare, made me want to get up and clean house or something. Definitely move-your-feet kind of music. Their CD's get regular rotation in my CD player, and in my kids' players too. These guys are good. Very good.

I caught up with Sam Smetana, bassist for Goodnight Sunrise, about their music, the band and their upcoming show at The Icon.


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?

SS: We like to call the music we play "pop & roll" and/or "riff pop." It's nothing ridiculously flashy or out of the ordinary, but we focus on writing pop-structured songs with fun riffs. We write honest and personal lyrics about life on the road and how it's shaped how we live.

I think that a lot of our fans are happy with the honesty in our music - we write songs that have meaning for us, and we're incredibly appreciative whenever that meaning carries over to someone else. We'd love to write the music for the soundtrack of our fans' lives, but we'd be happy to occupy a chapter. Some of the best fan sing-a-longs we've experienced were during the songs "It's The Stare" and "On Your Birthday."

SLG: Who's in the band? And how long has this line-up been together?

Dan Murphy / Vocals, Guitar
Sam Smetana / Bass
Justin Benner / Guitar, vocals
Mike Ogle / Drums

SS: This lineup has been writing and playing music together since late autumn in 2006.

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

SS: We're currently based in Helena, MT - Dan and Mike are cousins who started playing together at the beginning of middle school, and Dan, Justin, and myself all went to Clancy Elementary School together. We've known each other for what seems like forever!

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

SS: We've been on 14 regional and national tours, and some of the coolest venues we've played have been on the Sunset Strip in Los Angeles. Getting to play the Whisky-A-Go-Go right after my eighteenth birthday was surreal!

SLG: I'll bet! I've been to The Whisky. Great place. Describe this particular show. What can people expect if they come to this show?

SS: We'll be playing in Pocatello at The Icon (1235 N. Main Street) on Saturday, February 13th. It's an all age show, doors open at 6:30, and tickets are $8 - you can pre-order at smithstix.com. Other acts include locals Madison Lights and All Bright as well as The Trademark from Salt Lake City. Goodnight Sunrise will be playing last around 9:30 pm.

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?

SS: As far as the live music scene in Montana goes, things are pretty stagnant. It's great that Southern Idaho now houses an all-age music venue like the Icon - it was an area that desperately needed one!

The industry is in a huge transitional period - it is now easier than ever to record, distribute, and market music independently. The next few years will exhibit a continuing shift in the recording and music industry and where money comes in as records sales continue to plummet.

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

SS: Check out an HD segment of our a tour documentary. This is just a tiny glimpse into our life on the road.



[Ed. Note - click image at left for more videos from Goodnight Sunrise on YouTube.com.]

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

SS: We'll have two EPs for sale at the show - "Close and Counting" (2007) and our latest release, "Stop, Drop, & Roll" (June 2009). We'll also have t-shirts, tote bags, Goodnight "sundries," and more for sale - stop by and talk to our friendly, red-headed merch man, Duncan!

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

SS: The best ways to get in touch with us are facebook.com/goodnightsunrise, twitter.com/gnightsunrise, and myspace.com/goodnightsunrise. All three sites are linked from our official website, goodnightsunrise.com.

Bowling for Soup in SLC, UT, Feb. 10, 2010

You are invited to ...
BOWLING FOR SOUP IN SLC UTAH - FEB 10 AT IN THE VENUE

When:
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
6:00 PM - 10:30 PM MST

Where:
In The Venue
579 W 200 S., Salt Lake City, Ut 84101

Click here to view the event


Go to www.myspace.com/gingerkidconcerts and check out Bowling For Soup videos there! This is such a fun show to have in SLC, Utah, if you like Bloodhound Gang or anything like that, then this is a show you wont want to miss. SO MUCH FUN!!!
Plenty of tickets available for this show but they are going FAST! Get yours at Smithstix locations or just buy your ticket at the door the day of the show, don't worry, you'll get in!

- Ginger Kid Concerts

Column for February 3, 2010

It appears as if Pocatello’s local live music scene is featuring the genre of music for which it is best known this weekend – indie acoustic folk and blues.

Downtown Pocatello businesses frequently hire musicians and bands for each month’s First Friday Art Walk. This Friday, both the Vinyl Perk and Portneuf Valley Brewing have chosen local favorites to entertain the artsy crowds.

On Friday the 5th, Blind Autumn plays at the Vinyl Perk, located at 150 S. Main Street. Music starts at 6:00 p.m., is free and open to all ages.

Blind Autumn is a locally-based fusion rock group with Isaac Frantz on alto saxophone, flute and keyboards, guitarist John Boy, Terran Engle on bass and Patrick Kennedy on drums. Reasonably new to the southeast Idaho music scene, they are a group of high school seniors with plenty to which they can look forward.

Playing a kind of a fusion of rock and jazz, Blind Autumn mixes in some funk, reggae and blues. Expect a lot of variety in their songs; some could be considered straight-up rock while others are a lot jazzier. The songs are all instrumental; the inclusion of an alto sax player makes them different than a typical rock band.

Drummer Patrick Kennedy said, “people who know us pretty well like the song ‘Topsy Turvy.’ It starts out with a catchy melody on the sax, and the whole thing builds to a guitar/sax solo at the end. It was one of our first songs and kind of our signature song.”

Based in Pocatello, Blind Autumn formed about two years ago. The band has played fund raisers around town, including one recently at a local high school. They’ve played at the Vinyl Perk several times and have been warmly received.

“We want anyone who's curious to come check us out,” Kennedy continued. “We play a wide variety of stuff and I think most people will find at least some of our songs good or interesting.”

Thankful for the active local live music scene, in spite of Pocatello’s reasonably small size, Kennedy added “Vinyl Perk is a great new addition for live music around here. It's got a great atmosphere … I don't think a person should have to be 21 to get a chance to enjoy live music.” For more on Blind Autumn, visit www.myspace.com/blindautumn.

And Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello is bringing Fred Anderson to their stage for the First Friday Art Walk. Anderson takes the stage from 8:30 to 11:00 p.m.; the entertainment is free and open to all ages.

Fred Anderson is based from southeast Idaho, known as a high country bluesman and accomplished singer/songwriter. His performances are always eagerly anticipated in the pub, booked there frequently. For more information, call (208) 232-1644.

Also on Friday the 5th, Nyr Lif will be in concert at The Gateway Theater, corner of Benton and 2nd Avenue in Pocatello. The concert follows a performance by The Comedy Project, 9:00 p.m. Cost is under $5 and both shows are open to all ages.

Formed some four years ago, 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.

Nyr Lif took first place in Idaho State University's Guitar Unplugged Battle of the Bands. They are regulars at the local coffee shops, several of the university’s music events and at local music venues, outdoor events and fund raisers.

Listen for some of their most popular songs - "Capoed," "Yani" and "The Bicycle of Fate." Based in Pocatello, Nyr Lif features Casey Cathey on guitar and Shawn Barkdull on vocals and guitar; other musicians join as the need arises.

The group has release two CD’s, both available for purchase at CDBaby.com. They also have several videos on YouTube at www.youtube.com/transistorsendpm. For more, visit Nyr Lif online at www.myspace.com/nyrlif.

On Saturday the 6th, Soul Full of Blues will play at Portneuf Valley Brewing, rounding out a soulful and acoustic weekend of live music in the area.

For a little bit of rock, head over to Casey’s in American Falls where Kaught Lookin’ will play rock covers on Friday and Saturday nights. Visit www.myspace.com/kaughtlookin.

Last note, if you happen to be headed south next week, check out Jack’s Mannequin, perhaps best known for their single “The Resolution,” in concert at In the Venue, Salt Lake City, on Tuesday the 9th. Tickets available at smithstix.com.

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

Column for January 27, 2010

We have a full plate of live music entertainment in Southeast Idaho this week, with all-ages shows at The Icon, acoustic favorites at local restaurants and bars and two exciting concerts by favorite regional bands in the area.

Tonight, Wednesday the 27th, Abandon Kansas, Children 18:3, The Deception and more are performing at The Icon, located on N. Main Street in Pocatello; doors open at 6:30 p.m. And tomorrow, Thursday the 28th, Fire In the Skies, These Cities Passing, Above And Below, Chelsea Grin and more are on the bill. Visit www.myspace.com/iconlive for current information and upcoming shows.

Also on Thursday, Elvis Has Left the Building is scheduled to play at Senang Bistro, S. 1st. Ave. in Pocatello starting at 7:30. Formed in 1996, founding members Angier Wills and Greg Mladenka are joined by Bill Chalmers and when available, Richard Inouye. The group plays a blend of bluegrass, American folk and acoustic rock.

Available for purchase from www.cdbaby.com/cd/ehltb, Elvis Has Left the Building released a self-titled CD in 2007. For more on ELB, visit site.elbinfo.com.

Friday the 29th, Finn Riggins is in concert with locals Spawning Fondness at the Flipside Lounge, on S. Main St. in downtown Pocatello. Based in western and northern Idaho, Finn Riggins has been making Pocatello a regular stop.

Finn Riggins’ most recent release, “Vs Wilderness,” has been met with critical acclaim for their creative and elaborate indie rock. I find their music eccentric, pleasant, crafty, bright, fun and lively, and somewhat addictive (in a good way). For more, visit www.finnriggins.com.

Last week, you have have caught Unstable Ground at Portneuf Valley Brewing. If you missed that show, you can catch then again this Friday at Duffy’s Tavern on Main Street. Music starts at 9:00 p.m.; open to those 21+. No cover.

Based from Pocatello, Unstable ground is a four-piece band with guitarists Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook, Chris Willock on bass and Eric Stanley on drums. They have a large list of cover songs from which to play, tailoring each set appropriately for the crowd and venue.

This time, I’d expect Unstable Ground to crank it up with songs from AC/DC, the Beastie Boys, Bad Company or maybe a Limp Bizkit tune. For more on Unstable Ground, visit them online at www.unstablegroundband.com.

Speaking of Portneuf Valley Brewing, the pub on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello has two favorites on tap this weekend with Swingshift playing blues, jazz and pop on Friday night. And on Saturday, Bender is scheduled to play roots rock and reggae. Music starts at 8:30, no cover, and is open to all ages. Call (208) 232-1644 for more information.

Formed in 2008, Bender is an eclectic mix of musical instruments and styles. The bulk of their songs are original, a blend of American roots, rock, and reggae. They’ll also have a follow-up show on Sunday the 31st at the Pebble Creek Ski Area. Find Bender online at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello.

And on tap at Taps Bar on Garrett Way in Pocatello this weekend, Kaught Lookin’ is scheduled to play classic rock covers on both Friday and Saturday nights. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., no cover and open to those 21+.

*Oops - this show has been canceled*
On Saturday, Lybecker is in concert at The Icon with Somewhere In the Middle scheduled to open. Doors open at 6:30. Lybecker, a trio based from Seattle, WA plays alt. pop rock similar to Coldplay, Third Eye Blind or Switchfoot. Their most recent CD, “As the Sun Casts a Falling Shadow,” will be available for purchase at the show. For more, see www.myspace.com/lybeckermusic.

Somewhere In the Middle has recently returned from a tour through Nevada and Southern California in support of their most recently recorded songs. Keep up to date at www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.
*********************************

And the highlight of my live music shows this weekend, Scratch and 2am Logic open for Royal Bliss at the Peppertree Lounge in Idaho Falls, Saturday the 30th. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., open to those 21+. Tickets are available at www.78productions.com. I missed them last time; I won’t this time.

Royal Bliss has been hard at work self-promoting their most recent release, “Live and Acoustic in Studio A,” recorded last year at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles, CA. The CD is a limited edition, available for purchase online or at live performances.

Having received little support from their label, Royal Bliss continues to move forward and is currently recording their next effort. Expect to hear new tunes and old favorites. The band received great exposure playing at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, UT last week. For more, visit www.myspace.com/royalbliss.

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

Column for January 20, 2010

A true-to-form Pocatello local live music this week, you’ll find a wide variety, a vastly eclectic mix of live music genres from which to choose for live entertainment in the area.

Friday the 22nd, Elvis Has Left the Building plays at Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st. Avenue in Pocatello. Music starts at 8:30, no cover and is open to all ages.

Formed in 1996, two Elvis Has Left the Building (or ELB, for short) founding members are still a part of the band; guitarists Angier Wills and Greg Mladenka are joined by Bill Chalmers and when available, Richard Inouye. Their original songs are largely written by Wills and Mladenka, falling somewhere between bluegrass, American folk and acoustic rock.

ELB’s members are all avid ‘outdoor people,’ passionate about appreciating and preserving our natural resources. From their website ELB writes, “having members from different walks of life gives a well-rounded perspective to the group that is reflected in their musical styles and songwriting.”

Available for purchase from www.cdbaby.com/cd/ehltb, Elvis Has Left the Building released a self-titled CD in 2007.

On Sunday the 24th, ELB has a mid-afternoon show at the Rock Bottom Saloon at Pebble Creek, starting at 4:00 p.m. They’ll be joined with special guest Jessica McAleese. For more on ELB, visit site.elbinfo.com.

On Friday the 22nd, The Clumsy Lovers make a welcome return to the First National Bar with The Bell Boys opening. Music starts at 9:00 p.m.; cost is $8 at the door and open to those 21+.

The Bell Boys, based from Portland, OR, are an acoustic / Americana folk group with Mike Quinter on vocals and banjo, Keef Simon on upright bass, guitarists Bear Parsons and Jay Cobb Anderson and Tyler Thompson on drums. Find them online at www.myspace.com/thebellboyspdx.

The Clumsy Lovers are one of the best-loved returning music acts in Pocatello. Their energetic and upbeat performances never fail to get the crowd up and dancing – be sure to wear flowers in your hair; Birkenstocks optional.

The group’s most recent release, “Make Yourself Known,” will be available for purchase night of the show, or it is available online at www.cdbaby.com/Artist/TheClumsyLovers.

The Canada-based acoustic folk and bluegrass group frequents Idaho State University’s outdoor concerts. But in the winter time, seeing The Clumsy Lovers at The Nash is the next best thing. Find out more at clumsylovers.com.

On Saturday the 23rd, Unstable Ground plays country rock at Portneuf Valley Brewing starting at 8:30 p.m. Based from Pocatello, Unstable ground is a four-piece band with guitarists Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook, Chris Willock on bass and Eric Stanley on drums. All share in vocals.

Unstable Ground has a large list of cover songs from which to play, tailoring each set appropriately for the crowd and venue. Expect songs from the Eagles, Johnny Cash, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, Bob Seger and more. The band can crank out AC/DC too, but perhaps next time, eh?

For more on Unstable Ground, visit them online at www.unstablegroundband.com.

Also on Saturday the 23rd, there is an all-ages rock concert at the Elk’s Lodge on S. Main Street in Pocatello, with local bands on the bill. Sworn To Uphold, Forgiveness Denied, These Cities Passing and Above & Below play for just a $2 cover, starting at 7:00 p.m.

Of the Saturday night choices, I think the Elk’s Lodge would be my pick. Young local bands, playing for pennies, self-promoting … sounds like my kind of gig.

And a similar (although more pricey) all-ages rock show will be at The Icon on N. Main Street in Pocatello on the same night, with WatchOut There’s Ghosts, Elective Valentine and All Bright scheduled to play. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are $10 in advance through www.smithstix.com.

On Sunday the 24th, Silent Civilian, Blind Witness and Year of the Skies are the featured bands at the Icon, with These Cities Passing in an opening slot. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., open to all ages; tickets are $10 in advance, available at www.smithstix.com.

Also on Sunday the 24th, Sweatshop Union, a hip-hop / rap group from Vancouver, Canada, is scheduled to play at the Benton Street Bar starting at 8:00 p.m. Call first to verify 232-2222; find out more at www.myspace.com/sweatshopunion7.

And on Tuesday of next week, the 26th, Phat Bone, a locally-based funk and blues group is booked to play at Hooligans. Music starts at 9:00 p.m., open to those 21+.

L. Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Column for January 13, 2010

The local Girl Scouts troops are hosting a fund raiser and dessert event this weekend. On Friday, January 15, 2010, local music groups provide music entertainment during the event at the Whitman Apartments, 122 S. Main Street in Pocatello.

The Whitman was originally built in 1905 and is locally known as the Whitman Hotel. It was rebuilt last year and now houses one-bedroom and studio apartments with some retail space. The event is from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., no cost to get in, but includes a silent auction of locally donated items; so bring your checkbook!

Feedback from attendees and a panel of community members will be on hand to judge and declare the best dessert.

The barber shop quartet, SoundScape, acoustic guitarist Tyler Linton and the Pocatello-based indie / ambient guitar duo Nyr Lif are scheduled to play music entertainment at the Girl Scout’s benefit show.

The men of the SoundScape Quartet are members of the Idaho Gateway Chorus, a chapter of the Rocky Mountain District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Gary Dunn sings lead in this a cappella group, with Steve Erlandson singing tenor, Mike Louden singing baritone and bass singer Christopher Midgyette.

Formed in 2002, this group has had headlining performances in Idaho and Wyoming, and bookings in Utah, Colorado and Ohio. According to their website, SoundScape ranks in the top 7% of all quartets registered in the world with the Barbershop Harmony Society and is currently 9th in the nine-state Rocky Mountain District. In 2005 SoundScape won a prestigious scholarship to attend Harmony University in Columbus, Ohio where they studied with the best-of-the-best in the Barbershop world and were the featured quartet in the closing concert. Visit them online at www.soundscapequartet.com.

In 2008, Nyr Lif, with Casey Cathey and Shawn Barkdull, released a full-length CD, “Two Legs Broken,” to follow their previous EP, “Experimentallation.” The CD is available for purchase at www.cdbaby.com/cd/nyrlif for $9.99 download or $11.99 for the CD. Expect to hear calming music, modern electronic melodies blended with guitars and mandolin in the bluesy folk tradition.

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.

Listen for some of their more popular songs: the bluegrassy “Capoed,” “Yani,” a harmonica blues song and “The Bicycle of Fate." In a recent interview with Nyr Lif, Cathey said, “all we ever hope for is to make a comfortable living doing something we think about every waking minute - except when we’re hungry.”

See www.youtube.com/transistorsendpm for videos of Nyr Lif, and visit www.myspace.com/nyrlif for recorded music and a full schedule of their upcoming dates.

Also on Friday night, the locally-based blues and rock band PhatBone plays Duffy’s Tavern on Main Street, starting at 9:00 p.m. There is no cover, and Duffy’s is open to those 21+. Phat Bone is Steve Sullivan on guitar and vocals, bassist Russ Sidel and Don Godfrey on drums. They are also scheduled to play Hooligan’s downtown on Tuesday of next week.

Visit www.myspace.com/phatboneband for a full schedule of their local and regional bookings.

At Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello this weekend, Recycled Rocks, a vintage rock n roll band from Lava Hot Springs is scheduled on Friday the 15th. And on Saturday the 16th, the urban folk rock band Hillfolk Noir, from Boise, ID, plays the pub. Music entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages.

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

Column for January 6, 2010

A quiet live music scene in Pocatello this week, I can only assume that everyone is still recovering from the holidays?

This afternoon, the locally-based Kratz Bros Band is playing at Kinport Coffee on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello at 4:00 p.m. The entertainment is free and open to all ages. And on Saturday the 9th, the band will be playing at The Cellar, E. 17th Street, in Ammon, ID starting at 7:00 p.m.

The Kratz Bros Band started as a duo act with brothers John and Luke Kratz. Over time, they have evolved into a full fusion rock band that blends 60's- style folk songwriting with electric and acoustic world music sounds and rhythms. Find out more at www.myspace.com/kratzbrosband.

Tonight, Wednesday the 6th, a special show at Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello: Thomas Paul is playing the pub’s stage from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m..

Thomas Paul is an indie folk musician based out of Boise, Idaho. He’ll be playing for tips at the brewery, so bring a few extra bucks. Locals may know and recognize Paul from his work with the locally popular folk band, Hillfolk Noir. For more on Thomas Paul, visit him online at www.myspace.com/thomaspaulmusic.

Tomorrow the 7th, the acoustic, punk rock band Tyranny plays a special set at Hot Topic in Idaho Falls, starting at 6:30 p.m. Hot Topic is located in the mall on E. 17th Street. They have a follow-up performance at the Idaho State University campus in Idaho Falls. For more on Tyranny, see www.myspace.com/tyranny13.

On Friday the 8th in Idaho Falls, 2am Logic plays the Peppertree Lounge on . The show starts at 8:00 p.m., is free and open to those 21+.

2am Logic is an alt. rock / post-grunge band who has seen enormous success with their freshman album. They are currently in the studio working on a follow up release. In the last year alone, the group has shared the stage with Alice Cooper, Great White, Rev Theory, Pop Evil, The Sammus Theory and more.

Fronted by vocalist Todd Thompson, this five-piece band has Cody Scheer and Dustin Thueson on guitars, bassist Kathy Brown and Shawn Ringel on drums. Find out more at www.myspace.com/2amlogic.

Portneuf Valley Brewing has a weekend of live music with Soul Full of Blues, featuring singer Ramona Awes on Friday the 8th. And on Saturday, Aaron Ball’s Somewhere In the Middle rocks the pub’s stage. Music starts at 8:30, free entertainment and open to all ages.

On the music industry, Aaron Ball said, “[It is] a very exciting time to be musicians; there are so many opportunities for independent artists to self-promote. The music industry as a whole is really evolving, and it will be interesting to see where it is in another couple of years.” Find Somewhere In the Middle at www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.

On Saturday the 9th, Pocatello High School is hosting a fund raising dance for the Student Environmental Action Coalition. The dance is from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Cost is $5, and everyone is welcome. Expect a variety of music and special performances by Blind Autumn and Seven Feet Below.

Blind Autumn is a locally-based fusion rock group with Isaac Frantz on alto saxophone, flute and keyboards, guitarist John Boy, Terran Engle on bass and Patrick Kennedy on drums. Learn more about the band at www.myspace.com/blindautumn.

Seven Feet Below was recently in the news for making the final rounds in a national road song competition. Although the band didn’t win, they made a fine showing in the competition, bringing much-needed national exposure to Pocatello’s live music scene, particularly for being comprised of musicians under the age of 18. Gentlemen, you did us proud. Find out more about Seven Feet Below at www.myspace.com/7feetbelow.

There are some great concerts in the area coming up in the next few months. Fans of the progressive rock jam band genre of music will be pleased to hear that Umphrey’s McGee is scheduled to play at The Depot in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, January 20, 2010.

Just a few days later at The Depot, Big Head Todd and the Monsters are scheduled to play on January 23, 2010. On January 22nd, the legendary Bellamy Brothers are playing an intimate concert at The Outlaw Saloon in Ogden, UT.

And in February, Jack’s Mannequin is booked to play In The Venue in Salt Lake City. Tickets for these Utah shows are available at smithstix.com.

Also on January 22, The Clumsy Lovers make a long-awaited return to the Pocatello area at the First National Bar.

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