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 March 11, 2009

On Saturday, March 14, Idaho State University’s KISU radio station is pleased to host a CD release party for the indie powerpop band Spondee. The concert in ISU’s Bengal Café - map - starts at 7 p.m. with opening bands Warbonnet, Pewter Dragons, Nyr Lif and A. W. Feldt. Cost is $2 for students and $3 for the public; the new album “Pop Your Socks Off” will be for sale for the first time, for a one-time reduced price, at the event.

Spondee takes styles from different daces and pieces them together to make their own music. There’s classic American folk and a few poppy dance tunes enough to please anyone. This is happy, feel-good music that’s fun to listen to. Keep an ear out for a few of their fans’ favorites, “Lovelorn Robot,” the title track “Pop Your Socks Off” and “Dancin' Shoes.”

Fronted by Cody and Clint on guitars and vocals, Spondee’s current line-up had Melissa on keyboards, Noah on bass, vocals by Lindsey and Seth and James on drums and percussion.

Spondee was based in Pocatello but has moved their base to Boise. “A lot of our favorite shows were in Pocatello because we got our start there, and people will get up and dance for us. That makes the whole concert experience more fun for everyone.”

While in Pocatello, Spondee opened for Secondhand Serenade at the homecoming concert at ISU, and they have played with Finn Riggins at the First National Bar numerous times.

“We were a part of the music scene in Pocatello for a while … You have to make it happen in Pocatello and anywhere else for that matter” Clint said. “No one else is going to put flyers up for you, nor call you begging you to play. You have to do it yourself and it takes time. Be smart about the places you play and the settings. There are a lot of opportunities to play, but not every venue is for you and your music. Make sure it fits you and where you want your band to go.”

"Pop Your Socks Off" has ten tracks, two of which were recorded with Lars Lindstrom, and the rest were recorded at the Coming In Second studio in Boise with Jeremy Jenson. Visit them online at Spondee MySpace or email spondee123@gmail.com.

On Friday the 13^th, solo acoustic guitarist, singer / songwriter David August returns to Portneuf Valley Brewing - map - on S. 1^st Avenue in Pocatello. Music starts at 8:30 p.m., no cover and is open to all ages.

August plays original folk and pop rock, often compared to the Goo Goo Dolls. Montana born and bred, August says, “It's a well known fact that the absolute best way to get your music out there is to perform, perform, perform. Relentless touring is definitely a main key in making a living at playing music. Though I'd like to be able to tour more, I try to get out and play as much as possible.”

August will have two CD’s available for sale at the show. "Waiting for Tuesday" released in 2005 and “Out of Place” released last fall. “Both records are pretty upbeat.” For more, visit David August MySpace.

On Saturday the 14^th, the brewery plays host to the Aaron Ball Band starting at 8:30. Listed as alternative, acoustic pop rock, Aaron Ball covers a mixture of radio-friendly songs. “Our influences are incredibly broad, and it is evident when we are on stage that we just love music, no matter what style it is.” They played at the famous South by Southwest Festival in Austin, TX and Fremont Street in Las Vegas, NV. The band has opened for Blessid Union of Souls and was listed as one of the top 100 unsigned bands in the country.

The Aaron Ball Band released their full-length album last month, called “Stepping Stones.” Recently they have played in Boise, and rumor has it a trip to Scotland and Europe may be on the horizon. “There are thousands of bands out there in a van making no money. We just want to be wise and make some smart choices about what to do next.” For more, visit Aaron Ball MySpace.

There is another all-ages concert this Sunday at the old Barrie’s Ski Shop in the Westwood Mall on Garrett way. Greyhouse Effect and Cruise Control are on the billing; music starts at 7 p.m. and is open to all ages.

And on Tuesday the 17^th Spittin’ Lynt plays a St. Patrick’s Day show at Hooligans on W. Center Street at 8 p.m.

L. Alexander

email: slowloosegravel@yahoo.com

MySpace

Column for October 28, 2009

You may be gearing up for Trick ‘r Treating on Saturday the 31st, but save your Thursday and Friday nights for live music.

On Thursday night, the 29th, the Ah Holly Fam’ly stops in Pocatello while on tour with Ohioan at the Flipside Lounge, located at 117 S. Main Street in Pocatello (map). The locally-based Kratz Bros. Band is also on the bill. Music starts at 8:00 p.m.; cost is $5. For more, visit www.myspace.com/ahhollyfamly and Ohioan at www.myspace.com/oryne.

Also on Thursday, the Los Angeles-based acoustic alt. pop band The Silent Partner plays at Senang Wine Bar & Tapas on S. 1st Avenue (map) at 7:30 p.m. This is just the first of several performances by the group in this area.

On Friday the 30th, The Silent Partner will play at Goranson Hall on the Idaho State University campus in Pocatello (map), starting at 7:00 p.m. The free concert is a Parent’s Night Out, sponsored by ISU’s activities committee. On Saturday they play at Vino Rosso in Idaho Falls (map) and on Tuesday the 3rd, at The Cellar in Ammon (map).

The Silent Partner is a band centered on singer and songwriter Bradford Shaw. His debut album "Fall Away" was nominated 2005 Independent Rock Album of the Year for the Los Angeles Music Awards; it and a new EP release “Random” will be available for sale at the shows. Shaw also received a nomination for Singer/Songwriter of the Year in 2004 & won the award in 2007. He has been in several bands that have toured with The Go Go's, Brian Setzer Orchestra, and many more.

On tour, The Silent Partner is Brad Shaw and percussionist Fritz Zar. Expect a mix of piano, banjo, harmonica, and guitar looped for an acoustic rock sound. For more on this artist, visit www.sonicbids.com/thesilentpartner.

Also on Friday the 30th, The King’s Singers (website), a highly celebrated and Grammy Award-winning British a cappella voice insemble will be in concert at the Stephens Performing Arts Center at ISU (map). Concert starts at 7:30. Tickets are $28 to $32, online at www.isu.edu/tickets; call 208-282-3595 for more information.

The Benton Street Bar & Grill (map) is pleased to host the Salt Lake City-based rock group Drop Dead Julio on Friday the 30th, starting at 9:00 p.m. A local band will share the stage to finish out the night. Cost at the door is $5; concert is open to all ages, bar open to those 21+.

I met Gene Kennedy, of Drop Dead Julio, at a popular casual restaurant, The Blue Plate Diner, in Salt Lake City some three years ago, way Way WAY before Guy Fieri went there.

While waiting for a table, I noticed a gig poster hanging in the window and said to my dining companions, "Hey! Drop Dead Hoolio," I pronounced. "I've heard of those guys; they're getting really popular, playing at all the right local clubs and bars."

That's when Kennedy came over and corrected my pronunciation, "It's Drop Dead Joolio," with a "j," not with an "h" sound. We visited for a time and have stayed in touch. I thought then, and still think now, this is a band on the to-watch list.

Kennedy told me recently, “we write songs with (fans) in mind, songs that have energy and catchy choruses that people can sing along to.” DDJ is a rock band first and foremost, with a punk-pop side. Think Green Day meets Papa Roach. By popular vote, they played Warped Tour in Salt Lake City, sharing the stage with After Midnight Project. They’ve worked with The Lemonheads, Royal Bliss and 12 Stones, as well as being featured performers for several northern Utah radio stations.

Drop Dead Julio will have CD’s, “Lack of Direction” and “The Stories We Could Tell,” and t-shirts for sale at the show. For more, visit www.myspace.com/dropdeadjulio.

Back at the Flipside Lounge, No More Existence, Forgiveness Denied and Spawning Fondness are in concert on Friday at 8:00 p.m. And Portneuf Valley Brewing (map) brings the ever-popular Swingshift to their stage at 8:30.

Country fans will be pleased to hear that Moulton Jess will be playing at the Rubicon Bar in the Ramada Inn in Chubbuck (map) on Friday night. And Ande Conda will play rock covers at Taps Bar on Garrett Way (map) on both Friday and Saturday night, 9:00 p.m.

Considering an alternative to Trick Or Treating on Halloween? 7 Feet Below, Pocatello’s most popular band of under-17’s, is playing rock covers and a few originals in the loft of Portneuf Valley Brewing. Whew!

For in-depth interviews and more information, visit http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com.

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

Column for March 18, 2009

Spring has definitely sprung in the local live music scene, with concerts large and small this week in southeast Idaho.

Maya, an alternative / experimental classical music group performs at the Colonial Theater in Idaho Falls on Thursday the 19th, starting at 7:30. The group is a trio of rhythmically driven flute, harp and percussion incorporating improvisation into every innovative classical and ethnic musical performance. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for students K-12. Visit IdahoArts.org for more information.

And the biggest news in town this week, David Archuleta, of American Idol fame, is performing with Leslie Roy with several concerts in southern Idaho and northern Utah this week. Don’t get too excited – all of the concerts are sold out.

If you are set on seeing this American Idol this week, I found a few tickets for sale online. Stubhub.com had one ticket on auction starting at $100 for the Idaho Falls concert on Friday the 20th. On the same site I found two tickets for $50 and one for $99 for the Boise concert scheduled for Saturday the 21st.

Demand was so high for Archuleta’s concert that another date was announced for the ISU campus show scheduled for Monday the 23rd. Yes, sold out. But I found two tickets on auction at e-bay – at the time of this writing, the current bid was $100 per ticket.

And if you miss all of those Idaho Archuleta performances, your last chance in the area would be on Friday the 27th at the E-Center in Salt Lake City. I found a few tickets at DavidArchuletaTickets ranging in price from $80 to $196 per ticket. Yowsers!

The First National Bar on W. Center Street has a three-day line-up of live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights this week. On Thursday, one-man-band Brian Ernst is the featured performer at Downtown Dan’s open mic.

On Friday, Seattle’s Led Zeppelin tribute band No Quarter returns to The Nash for a concert at 9 p.m. And on Saturday night, the local rock band Something Stirring takes the stage. And yes, I checked the First National Bar’s schedule very carefully this week to ensure these shows are accurate.

Portneuf Valley Brewing, on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello is embracing their world-view with one of Pocatello’s hottest new bands, Bender, on Friday night. Bender plays roots rock and reggae starting at 8:30.

And on Saturday night the 21st, the Wailing O’Sheas wrap up a week-long celebration of St. Patrick’s day at the pub. I spoke with Jordan Olson of the Wailing O'Sheas about their upcoming performance in Pocatello, about what the band has been doing, what their plans are and the local live music scene in general.

The Wailing O’Sheas is a tribute to Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly and other legendary Irish punk-rock outfits, so their whole catalog comes from those bands. "Flogging Molly’s music is so closely connected to the struggle of the working class; some of their lyrics are so deep and sad. And they tie it all together with amazing melodies, emotion and ruckus punk-rock. One of the funnest songs we play is ‘That Woman’s Got Me Drinking’ by Shane MacGowan of The Pogues."

Based from Salt Lake City, Jordan Olsen plays guitar, John Chatelain is on bass, Ryan Smith drums and the Wailing O’Sheas are completed with Andy Reiner on fiddle.

The first show they ever played together was at 1st National Bar in Pocatello on St. Patrick’s Day 2007. Three of the four members of The Wailing O’Sheas play in the alt-rock band The Gorgeous Hussies, and while playing a show at 1st National Bar in the winter of 2007 the promoter at the bar asked if the band new any Irish punk-rock bands to play St. Patrick’s Day. The guys didn’t know any but figured they could put one together for their St. Patty’s celebration. In less than 6-weeks The Gorgeous Hussies learned a 3-hour set of Irish punk-rock and played their first show at 1st National Bar as The Wailing O’Sheas. So Pocatello has a close connection to the formation of our band.


The Wailing O’Sheas have been very well received throughout Utah and Idaho. "We currently have roughly 20 shows booked throughout the west and will be coming back to 1st National Bar on April 17th."

One last note: on Monday the 23rd, Royal Bliss and Jet Black Stare open for Candlebox at The Depot in Salt Lake City. Tickets are $30 plus service fees, available at www.smithstix.com.

--L. Alexander

Full list of local concerts: www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Column for February 24, 2010

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Column for March 25, 2009

The rodeo must be just around the corner, because cowpunk, rockabilly, blues and bluegrass seem to be the theme in southeast Idaho’s live music scene this week. Oh, and there’s more. Read on.

White Trash Watson is the featured performer at the First National Bar’s open mic night on Thursday the 26th. Show up around 9 p.m.; there is no cover at the door. As the name implies, this isn't a family oriented act. White Trash Watson plays loud, fast, old school country-punk for folks who want to drink, dance, and forget about their woes for a few hours in these troubled economic times.

Fronted by Scott "Clarence" Watson on vocals and guitar, White Trash Watson is not a band that plays in the background while folks visit with friends in a bar, “we are and love to be the center of attention when on stage.”

Cowpunk is a genre first made popular in the early 80's by the Los Angeles-based band, The Gun Club. The music essentially takes standard country chord progressions and lyric subjects, adds volume, speed and attitude. Think Hank Williams meets The Ramones in a rockabilly-influenced melting pot of reverb heavy guitar, frantic upright bass, wild harmonica solos, and over the top vocals written to provoke laughter and sing-a-long memories for show goers.

Based in Pocatello, the rest of White Trash Watson is Alyse "Judy Rehab" Zendrosky on upright bass, drummer Jordan "Richard Peter" Brooks, "Painless" Brad Samuelson on harmonica, and of course front man Scott "Clarence" Watson.

“The local music scene is alive and well at the First National Bar in Pocatello. Some unbelievable local talent can be seen there every Thursday night,” Watson said. Moreover he commented, “It makes us sick to see the malignant garbage that corporate Nashville is grinding out. We, along with many other acts like Hank III, Wayne Hancock, Old 97's, Drive By Truckers just to name a few, are trying to save country music from the pop stars on GAC and CMT. That is NOT country music, its WalMart driven dribble for the musically ignorant.”

White Trash Watson expects to release their first CD this summer. For more, visit www.whitetrashwatson.com.

If you haven’t heard, there’s a new all ages live music venue in Pocatello, operated, booked and promoted by and for local musicians. Check out the old Barrie’s Ski & Sport building at 1800 Garrett Way in the Westwood Mall on Friday the 27th. Madison Lights, Burnt Orange, Heber Skies and Aaron Ball’s band Somewhere In the Middle are scheduled to play at 7 p.m. for only $5. For a full schedule, visit www.myspace.com/ballbrothersmusic.

Portneuf Valley Brewing on S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello has jazz, blues, rock and bluegrass on tap this weekend. On Friday the ever-popular Swingshift takes the stage. And on Saturday the 28th, Fred and Emily Frank play bluegrass. Both shows start at 8:30 with no cover charge.

If the Rat Pack were from Sparks, Nevada instead of New York City, they'd be The Saddle Tramps. “We're the Undisputed Kings of Mobile Home Rock…. We're like a cross between George Jones and The Dickies. We sound like nails on a chalkboard,” so says Scotty Roller, front man for The Saddle Tramps, in concert on Saturday the 28th at the First National Bar.

Reverend Scotty Roller (yes, he’s a real ordained minister) leads the Saddle Tramps on vocals and guitar. Bassist “Big John” Von Nolde, drummer Mike Young, guitarist Jon Perry and Suzy Switchblade complete the band.

Formed in 1999, the band has toured every state from Houston, Texas westward and has played some legendary rooms and stages including The Derby in Hollywood, The Continental Club in Austin, The Tractor Tavern in Seattle, The Bahia Resort in San Diego, The Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas and has set attendance records in the old Golden Phoenix and the Reno Hilton in Nevada.

Expect plenty of humor mixed with danceable punkabilly music at this show. The Saddle Tramps take the stage at 9:30 p.m.; $8 cover at the door at the First National Bar on W. Center Street in Pocatello. For more, visit www.thesaddletramps.com.

If rock is more your style, head over to the Benton St. Bar & Grill on 2nd Avenue for Metal Meltdown with Altar Edge, Dr.Seuss Is Dead, Neckbrace and Haxsaw Ridge. Cost is $6 for ages 18 to 20, $5 for 21+. Music from 8:00 p.m. to 2 a.m.

One final note: the Versa Emerge concert scheduled at The Icon for Monday, March 30 has been cancelled.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Column for October 13, 2010

Marigolds Wine, located on Flandro Drive near Golds Gym, is fast becoming not only a center for wine and gourmet delicacies, but also for live music. On Thursdays, Marigolds’ is hosting an open mic night, from 5 to 8:00 p.m. Marigolds is open to those 21 and over. Visit www.marigoldswine.com for more information.

On Friday and Saturday, the 15th and 16th, Jory Dax performs funk-based blues at Marigolds starting at 7:00 p.m. Music entertainment is free. Jeff Young, guitar and vocals, and long-time friend Henry Evans, percussion, started The Jory Dax Band several years ago. The Jory Dax Band has been an on-again-off-again favorite band in the area, with fits and spurts of success and plenty of member changes. But every time they’ve played, the audience response has been encouraging and supportive.

Young, based in Pocatello, is an inarguably a talented guitar player; perhaps not in virtuoso technique, but certainly in passion and lightning-quick fretwork. I’ve sat in the audience surrounded by other guitar players and musicians who, in a soft whisper for my ears only, have compared Young’s potential to Robin Trower and Stevie Ray Vaughn. If you’ve missed Jory Dax in the past, now’s a good time to get in on the groove.

At Portneuf Valley Brewing this weekend, Train Wreck, based from Idaho Falls, takes the stage on Friday the 15th. Music entertainment is free and open to all ages, starting at 8;30 p.m. And on Saturday the 16th, Unstable Ground is at the pub playing rock and country.

Train Wreck is a duo project with Shawn Good and Amber Lytle. I interviewed Good last year for the Grand Opening of the Vinyl Perk, and shortly thereafter he began his collaboration with Lytle. Listen for covers of songs from Ani Difranco, Blake Shelton, Cream, Otis Redding, Lynard Skynard, Jack Johnson, Eric Clapton, Missy Higgins, Melissa Ethridge, and more.

“I think TrainWreck appeals most to its fans because of the diversity of music that we represent,” Good said. “Coming to a TrainWreck show, you're not going to hear just one type of music. You're more than likely going to hear a song from every radio station on the airwaves, except for the gospel channel. That’s why we call ourselves TrainWreck, because it's all these genres of music meshed into one set.”

The duo has played throughout southeast Idaho, either separately as solo musicians or together. They’ve played at Vino Rosso and The Cellar in Idaho Falls, Fort Hall and the Vinyl Perk in Pocatello. For more, find Train Wreck on Facebook.

Unstable Ground is a locally-based rock and country cover band, a regular favorite at the pub. The four-piece band is fronted by Gene Taylor and Mark Holbrook on guitars and vocals, backed by bassist Chris Willock and Eric Stanley on drums. The band is also scheduled at Marigolds in mid-November.

Keep in touch with Unstable Ground by email at contact@unstablegroundband.com, or visit their website at www.unstableground.com.

Some other big concerts coming up in and around the area soon include Destino, an opera and pop fusion group, performing at the Blackfoot Performing Arts Center on Thursday the 21st. Tickets for Destino are $20 for adults and $15 students under 18, available at blackfootpac.com, Tweedy's Music in Blackfoot, or by calling (208) 317-5508.

Judy Collins, pianist and folk singer / songwriter is in concert at the Colonial Theater in Idaho Falls on Friday the 22nd. Tickets are $35 in advance or $38 at the door. For more, call (208) 522-0471.

On Sunday the 24th , The First National Bar hosts a fund-raising concert for a recent house fire victim with Forgiveness Denied, Valley of Unrest, the Art of Repulsion and more. Call (208) 233-1516.

And tickets are on sale now for The Freakers Ball at the Old Ernst Building in Idaho Falls, presented by 78 Productions. Royal Bliss headlines with support from Anchored, Somewhere In the Middle and Some Day Sane. Tickets are $15 in advance, available online at www.78productions.net or at CD World in Idaho Falls. The concert is open to all ages; minors 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Royal Bliss recently spent six weeks in Nashville, TN, recording a new album, due for release in spring 2011. I heard a preview of the new record a few weeks ago, and it’s heavy, man. Fans will love it.

Also on the 29th, Straight No Chaser is scheduled to perform at the Idaho Falls civic Auditorium. Tickets are available online at www.idahofallsarts.org.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Column for June 24, 2009

Tonight the Civitan’s Wednesday night Revive @ Five concert goes country with Country Drive taking the Old Town Pavilion stage, 5:00 p.m. to 8 p.m., corner of Main and Fremont Streets in downtown Pocatello (map). This week’s event is sponsored by PMS and catered by Relay 4 Life. (Full Revive @Five 2009 schedule)

Country Drive, the well-known house band from the 5-Mile Inn, plays a lot of old country, a little new, some older rock and even some blues. There's something for everyone. Some of their most requested songs include “Keeper of the Stars,” “I Love This Bar,” “Some Beach,” and their original “2 Sides to the Mirror.” (Interview with Country Drive)

Country Drive has been around for over 10 years with various members coming and going. They’re known to play private parties, weddings and community events. For more on Country Drive, including schedule, pictures and video, visit www.myspace.com/mycountrydrive.

Idaho State University continues their “pants free” summer concert series with Steve Means headlining at 7 p.m. on Thursday the 25th. Zombie At Heart opens at 6:00 p.m. The concerts are free and open to the public, located on the Quad outside the Student Union of ISU’s Pocatello campus (map). (Full ISU summer 2009 schedule)

Steve Means is a 21-year old acoustic singer/songwriter from Cincinnati, OH. He describes his music as “acoustic/soul or even ‘green-eyed, white-boy soul,’” blending smooth grooves with powerful, open lyrics. Some of his crowd favorites include Stevie Wonder's "Superstition," along with two new singles, "You and Me" and "Now or Never," both of which recently featured on MTV’s “The Real World” and “The Hills.” (Interview with Steve Means)

“People seem to connect to my music because it's honest,” Means says, “and makes you bob your head or even dance a little.” By using looping technology, the layering of multiple guitar parts, Means creates beats and background vocals in real time. Find out more at www.myspace.com/stevemeans.

Opening Means, Zombie at Heart is a powerpop / punk soloist, John Vieira, from Boise, ID, currently a student at the College of Southern Idaho. Vieira recently spent a month in Seattle, WA, recording a new EP called "V-necks And G-strings" that will be available for purchase at the concert. For more, see www.myspace.com/zombieatheart. (Interview with Zombie at Heart)

On Fridays the Vinyl Perk, downtown Pocatello’s newest coffee house and vinyl record mecca, features local and regional musicians at 7:00 p.m. (map) This Friday the 26th, Anodyne Red from Idaho Falls plays acoustic alt. rock at the Perk.

Formed six years ago, Anodyne Red has released two EP’s. They’re scheduled to play the ISU Quad on June 30 and on the Civitan’s stage in Idaho Falls on Fourth of July. Find out more at www.myspace.com/anodynered.

Speaking of Idaho Falls, the big event of the weekend for hard rockers is on Friday night when The Sammus Theory triumphantly returns for a CD release concert at The Tropics, 7:00 p.m. (map)Listen to KBER radio for an interview at 7 in the morning, then catch them at an in-store CD signing at CD World in Idaho Falls from 3 – 4:00 p.m. Southern Death Threat, The Unread and 2am Logic are slated to share the bill.

The Sammus Theory will follow up on Saturday the 27th with a concert at the First National Bar, W. Center St. in Pocatello for those 21 and over (map). Find more at www.myspace.com/thesammustheory.

And if bluegrass is more your speed, Idaho Falls has that too on Saturday with the 4th annual Bluegrass on the Greenbelt, a one-day festival of bluegrass in South Capitol Park, 1 – 9:00 p.m. (map) This year’s bands include the Wild Coyotes, Pickin’ Grass, New South Fork, Growling Old Men and Tradition. The event is free. (more information)

Also on Saturday, Pebble Creek opens its slopes for the Idaho Music and Wildflower Festival, a fund raising event for the National Ski Patrol (map). KYDJ and the Aaron Ball Band provide the music entertainment this year. Tickets are available in advance at Scott's Ski and Sports, Barrie's Sports, The College Market and The Raven's Nest. Tickets are $7.00 in advance and $10.00 at the gate. Children 12 and under are admitted free.

Botanists will be along the hiking routes to identify plants and wildflowers, lift rides are offered from 4:00 to 6:45 p.m. and beer and barbecue will be available for purchase. Learn more at www.pebblecreekskiarea.com.

The before-and-after-wildflower-party will be at the Blue Moon Bar in Lava Hot Springs, where Ande Conda plays favorite rock covers starting at 9:00 p.m both on Friday and Saturday nights (map). Back in Pocatello, Plain Jane is scheduled at Taps Bar on Garrett Way over the weekend (map).

For in-depth interviews and more information, visit http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com. For a calendar of local live music, visit www.myspace.com/showmetheband.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music

Column for June 17, 2009

This is a busy week for local live music! Here’s an outline; for a full schedule, see www.myspace.com/showmetheband and for in-depth interviews, http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com.

Tonight, Wednesday the 17th, the experimental rock band Spawning Fondness is scheduled to play the Civitans’ Revive at Five concert, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Old Town Pavilion, corner of Fremont and Main Streets in downtown Pocatello. This week’s fundraising event is sponsored by Westmark Credit Union and catered by the Sand Trap. For more, see www.myspace.com/spawningfondness.

At 6:00 p.m. tonight, Andy Reiner, of Utah’s the Wailing O’Sheas will host a Fiddle Workshop in the loft of Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Ave. in Pocatello. This hour and a half workshop will explore cross-genre techniques and rhythmic playing strategies with a focus on fun for intermediate to advanced violin, viola and cello players. The workshop will be followed by a free Celtic punk rock concert by the Wailing O’Sheas in the pub from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Andy Reiner is a recent graduate of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. Cost is $25. Call (208) 232-1644 for more information.

On Thursday the 18th at 6:00 p.m., Idaho State University Summer Programming is pleased to bring Jared Johnson & the Jackpines and Audio Moonshine to the quad for a free outdoor concert. Rain site is the Canoe Room in the Pond Student Union Building.

Audio Moonshine plays rock music with a northwest vibe, with a hint of folk/soul/country for fun. Although they are a new band, the individual band members have 15 years of experience in a variety of bands in the Boise area. They have fun when they play and love what they do. See www.myspace.com/myaudiomoonshine.

Jared Johnson and the Jack Pines play western rock – think of rock music with a hint of down-home country and the blues. Based from Utah, Jared Johnson released his CD, “Derailing Spiritual Death,” and has shared the stage with Jerry Joseph & the Jackmormons, The Young Dubliners, The Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash and more.

On Saturday the 20th, The Greenway Foundation hosts their annual RiverFest at Taysom Rotary Park, just south of Old Town Pocatello. It's festival seating, so bring blankets, chairs and other items to make yourselves comfortable for the show. There will be a large tent for shade. The event is from 2:00 – 9:00 p.m., rain or shine.

At 2:00, Seven Feet Below (formerly Starbent) takes the stage, Bender at 3:30, Aaron Ball at 5:00 and Jeremy Buck & the Bang headline the event with a set from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. For more info, visit www.pgfweb.com/riverfest.htm.

Seven Feet Below plays classic rock songs and a few originals. The band is comprised of four young men from 12 to 14 years old – lead guitarist Joseph Bellegante, drummer Spencer Ruchti, rhythm guitarist Drew Ruchti and the newest member of the band Tristin Paz on bass guitar. All four add their vocals. Find them online at www.myspace.com/7feetbelow.

The roots rock and reggae band Bender has been a regular favorite at Portneuf Valley Brewing and around the area. They are new to MySpace, so add them as a friend at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello.

Aaron Ball’s band Somewhere In the Middle is made of a staple duo of singer, songwriter and guitarist Aaron Ball and drummer Jonathan Brownly together with guest musicians as needed. They play acoustic rock music that is modern, not too hard, not too soft, melodic, family friendly and entertaining. Expect humor, a few personal stories and a whole lot of toe-tapping music.

This August, Ball will take his band on a tour from here to Louisiana, Tennessee and back. While in New Orleans, Tom Drummond (Better than Ezra) will co-produce a sophomore CD with Somewhere In the Middle at Fudge Studio, where Howie Day, Better than Ezra, Blondie and the Family Guy TV Show have all recorded. “We hope to get some attention,” Ball said, “and continue establish ourselves as a serious contender in the independent music world….” See www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.

And back by ever more popular demand, Jeremy Buck & the Bang are making a special trip to Idaho just for RiverFest. I’ve spent a lot of time with Buck over recent months; they were here over the Easter weekend, then I flew to L.A. in May to seem them on their home turf, and again last weekend in Mt. View, CA for the Great American Food & Music Fest. I am always thrilled by Buck’s ability to rouse a crowd and thoroughly entertain. For more, visit www.jeremybuck.com.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Column for May 27, 2009

The Bannock County Civitans host a free weekly concert series in downtown Pocatello every Wednesday, 5 pm - 8 pm, starting on May 27 through September 2, 2009. Concerts are held at the Old Town Pavilion, 420 N Main St., Pocatello, on the corner of Fremont and Main Streets, just across the street from Main Street Music. The series raises funds for civic-oriented projects. (2009 concert schedule)

This Wednesday kicks off the series with Cruise Control (full interview), a duo with Cam Lewis on keyboards and Sam Garner on guitar. Both sing with excellent harmonies in a Simon and Garfunkel kind of way. They play a fusion of folk, punk rock, and rap with a few other influences that vary with each song. Listen for "The Vain and the Mundane," exemplifying their style, and "Lori's Song," known for it’s string and conga accompaniments.

The duo formed in May of 2008 and has played at local coffee shops, the ISU Ballroom and at The Icon, opening for Jeremy Enigk. They recorded an EP with six songs, including a unique folk cover of the punk rock song "The Adventure" by Angels and Airwaves. Find out more at www.myspace.com/cruisecontrol76.

And on Thursday the 28th, Idaho State University begins their weekly outdoor concert series on The Quad. This week, the Pocatello-based Kratz Bros Band opens for Kris Orlowski. The event starts at 6:00 p.m.

The Kratz Bros Band (full interview) is Luke and John Kratz on keyboards and guitar respectively, with cellist Dorian Hitchcock, Chris Sherburne on drums and vocalist Lindsey Tucker. Their music is a blend of folk songwriting with electric and acoustic world music. For more, visit www.myspace.com/kratzbrosband.

Kris Orlowski, from Seattle, WA, plays pop-driven rock. In live performances, the band is known for their stage humor and antics, entertaining by performance as well as by their music. Expect edgy roots rock with influences from alternative rock and pop-jazz fusion. Find out more at www.krisorlowski.com.

On Friday the 29th, the new Vinyl Perk coffee shop and record store on Main Street continues their Friday Night Live music performances with Scratch Unplugged (a.k.a. Kenny Nelson) at 7:00 p.m. Learn more about Scratch at www.myspace.com/ifscratch.

On Saturday the 30th, head over to the Ross Park bandshell for a Battle of the Bands (full story), an event to raise funds for the Bannock House. The event starts at 1:00, and music starts at 2:00 p.m. It’s not too late for bands to sign up; call Danielle Swenson at (208) 380-5484.

So far there are six bands on the bill: Nyr Lif, 7 Feet Below, Ice Cold Crickets, Paint it Plaid, and more. The winner is decided on popular vote, where each vote is $1. The winner will receive a $150 gift certificate to Mike's music. There will be snacks and drinks available for purchase.

7 Feet Below (formerly Starbent) is a rock cover band comprised of young people from 12 to 14 years old. They are also beginning to write their own original songs: "Let's Run Away," "Scream," "Take This," and "Fight." But listen for crowd favorites "Wild Thing" by The Animals, "Smoke On The Water" by Deep Purple and "All The Small Things" by Blink -182. Find out more at www.myspace.com/7feetbelow.

On Saturday evening, May 30th, Portneuf Valley Brewing is pleased to present a special concert, Chicks with Picks, upstairs in the loft starting at 7:30 p.m, a collection of over a dozen of Pocatello’s finest women musicians and singer/songwriters. For more, visit www.myspace.com/portneufvalleybrewing.

Pink Floyd fans rejoice! The Floydshow (full interview)makes a triumphant return to the First National Bar on Saturday the 30th at 9:30 p.m.; $7 cover. The Floydshow is a Pink Floyd tribute band, playing radio favorites like “Another Brick in the Wall 2,” “Money” and “Wish You Were Here,” as well as some lesser known Floyd songs like “Astonomy Domain,” “Echoes” or “Not Now John.”

They will include screen projections and audio samples to give the audience their best interpretation of a Pink Floyd concert. Not every song is note perfect – expect Floydshow’s own twist on some songs. But then, that’s the beauty of a live music performance; each performance is a unique experience.

Floydshow, based from Salt Lake City, is a large production with eight performers in the full band. The group formed almost two years ago, and since that time has performed throughout the mountain region. They recently played at the Knitting Factory in Boise with over 300 people in the audience, singing along in chorus with every song. More at www.floydshow.com.

Further information, schedules and in-depth interviews at slowloosegravel.blogspot.com.

L. Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Column for April 7, 2010

This week, the Dodge National PRCA Circuit Finals Rodeo is in town. There will be plenty to do and see in Holt Arena today through Saturday, April 7 – 10, 2010 from early in the morning through the evening hours. But the after-rodeo parties are officially at the Green Triangle, 4010 Yellowstone in Pocatello.

The Green T, as it’s known, is ready with local and regional country music bands and musicians to provide dancing music every night of the rodeo, from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Call the Green T at (208) 237-0354 or visit www.dncfr.org for more information.

Alternatively, there are two Hip Hop / Hardcore shows this week: the first, in Idaho Falls. Rezination and 3vilution headline with Mr. E and Universal Cipher at the El Toro night club, 921 Northgate Mile in Idaho Falls on Thursday the 8th. Cover is $5 at the door; show starts at 8:00 p.m., open to those 21+. Call (208) 522-3468 for more information.

Rezination is a rap / hip hop group based from Rigby, Idaho. The members perform under the names Mumblez, Xyle and Skitz. Find out more at www.myspace.com/rezination420.

3vilution is a hardcore rap group akin to the Juggalos of Psychopathic Records. Based in Pocatello, 3vilution formed in 2001. Their debut album, “The Autopsy,” was released in 2008 from Mediacraft Records. Visit www.myspace.com/3vilution for the latest.

In a similar genre, the Boise-based rap and hip hop groups 33 Deep, Universal Cyfer and United Brothaz are scheduled to play at The Icon on N. Main Street in Pocatello on Saturday the 10th. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; cost is $10 and open to all ages.

For more dulcet acoustic tones, on Friday the 9th, Greyhouse Effect is playing at the Vinyl Perk on S. Main Street in Pocatello. Music entertainment starts at 6:00 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages.

Based in Pocatello, the Greyhouse Effect is singer/songwriter Joe Hunt. A part of the local live music scene for many years, Hunt is currently working on recording a full length solo acoustic album of indie and folk rock, groovy guitar and vocals. For more, visit www.myspace.com/greyhouseeffect.

Also on Friday, a trio of local acoustic musicians, Picard, Byers and Mladenka, are set to take the stage at Portneuf Valley Brewing starting at 8:30 p.m. Music entertainment is free and open to all ages. And on Saturday the 10th, the Boise-based country / blues and swing group, Hillfolk Noir, is playing at the pub starting at 8:30 p.m, no cover and open to all ages.

HillFolk Noir started in the late 90’s when Travis Ward collaborated with Doug Martsch of Built to Spill. The successes from that recording inspired Ward to form his own band, with wife Ali and Mike Waite. The group performs all over the mountain region and has travelled to Austin, TX for the great SXSW music festival. For more, visit www.myspace.com/hillfolknoir.

If dulcet acoustic tones is too little, and hardcore rap is too hard, there are still some live music concerts out there for you this week, somewhere in the middle.

Pocatello’s Somewhere In the Middle is set to play on the Quad at Idaho State University on Saturday the 10th, closing out the rodeo week. Concert starts at 6:00 p.m., open to the public of all ages.

Somewhere In the Middle plays alternative rock – a mix of pop and acoustic rock, with lyrics ranging from humorous to tragic. They released a 4-song EP in March with the single, Second Gear, gaining airplay on local and regional radio stations. The band is fronted by Aaron Ball, with guitarist Jake Tolle, Chris McElprang on bass and drummer Johnathan Brownly. The group is also playing at the Icon on the 12th. See www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.

The Icon, located on N. Main Street in Pocatello, is hosting a great pop rock lineup with Sleep for Sleepers headlining and support from A Current Affair, Josia James, Somewhere In the Middle and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; cost is $10 and open to all ages. Sleep for Sleepers has what I call that “Warped Tour” sound, pop rock with tight harmonies. Visit www.myspace.com/sleepforsleepers to preview their music.

And last note: on Tuesday the 13th, head up to Idaho Falls for a concert with the hard rock / almost metal bands Sammus Theory from Phoenix, AZ and The Unread, late of Idaho Falls and now based in Salt Lake City. The show starts at 7:00 p.m. at the Peppertree Lounge. Visit www.myspace.com/thesammustheory or www.myspace.com/theunread for more.

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 September 23, 2009

The big concert this week is at the El Rey Event Center in Blackfoot, ID. The national recording group Shinedown headlines, with the Sick Puppies and Cavo on Thursday, September 24. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., and the concert starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets for Shinedown are $32.50 plus fees, available online at www.eastidahoconcerts.com.

Shinedown, originating from Jacksonville, FL, is a popular southern alt. rock, post-grunge band from Jacksonville, Florida, formed in 2001. The band has released three albums on Atlantic Records featuring the well-known and radio friendly singles "45," "Save Me," "Devour," "Sound of Madness," and "Second Chance," all of which have climbed into the Top 5 of the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.

“Leave a Whisper” is Shinedown's best-selling album, certified platinum. “Us and Them” is their second studio album released in 2005, now certified gold. And in 2008, Shinedown released their third effort with three #1 singles. To date, Shinedown has sold over six million albums worldwide. For more, visit www.shinedown.com.

Sick Puppies are an Australian alt. rock band from Sydney, formed in 1997 and Cavo is an American post-grunge/hard rock band from St. Louis, MO.

On Friday the 25th, three metal bands take the stage at the Benton Street Bar & Grill, corner of S. 2nd Avenue and Benton Street. The show starts at 8:00 p.m. with Final Underground from Boise, followed by the wildly popular local metal bands Haxsaw Ridge and Neckbrace. The concert is open to all ages; cost is $7 for those under 21 and $5 for 21 and over.

The weekend concerts at Benton Street coincide with their week-long Great American Dine Out fund raising effort for the charity, Share Our Strength. 5% of all food and drink sales will be donated towards ending childhood hunger in America. For more, visit www.myspace.com/bentonstreet and strength.org.

On Saturday the 26th, Pocatello’s Oktoberfest Block Party gets under way starting at 4:00 p.m. on the 600 block of S. 1st Avenue in the warehouse district. Festivities continue until midnight. Oktoberfest is a sixteen-day festival held each year in Munich, Germany during late September, running to early October. In American culture, it is without a doubt the most famous event celebrating German heritage and, well, beer in general.

Musically, Pocatello’s Oktoberfest features three bands: the Oompah Loompahs, the locally popular American folk band Bender and The Shook Twins, from Sandpoint, Idaho.

Tickets for Oktoberfest are $8 at the gate or $6 in advance, available at Portneuf Valley Brewing, Barrie’s Ski & Sports, The Raven’s Next, Budget Tapes & Records and at The Grapevine; children under 12 are admitted free. Proceeds from the event benefit the Pebble Creek Ski Patrol. For more information, call 637-8984.

The Shook Twins, Katelyn and Laurie Shook, play acoustic folk, rock and pop with breath-taking harmonies. Forming their band some three years ago, they opened for Ryan Adams at the well-known Festival at Sandpoint music festival, and their career has taken off since.

The Shook Twins take a twist on folk music with Laurie’s beatboxing and looping her guitar and vocals. Listen for one of their biggest crowd-pleaser, “Beatbox Medley,” where they mix R&B and rap together.

The Shook Twins feel the best way to get their music out to the fans is through MySpace. “As far as all of Idaho goes, we feel very accepted and appreciated.” The duet will have their CD, “You Can Have the Rest,” for sale at the show. For more on The Shook Twins, visit www.myspace.com/shooktwins.

The roots rock and reggae band, Bender, has been a regular favorite at Portneuf Valley Brewing, the recent concert for Riverfest and around the area. They are relatively new to MySpace, so add them as a friend at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello.

Also on Saturday, acoustic guitarist, singer and songwriter Dan Hillebrant performs at The Sandpiper on Bench Road in Pocatello starting at 7:00 p.m. Keep up with Hillebrant’s performance schedule at www.myspace.com/danhillebrant. And Ande Conda, found online at www.myspace.com/andeconda and one of the area’s best-known rock cover bands performs at the First National Bar on W. Center Street in Pocatello starting at 9:00 p.m.

And on Tuesday of next week, the Vinyl Perk on Main Street in Pocatello is pleased to host The Hand That Bleeds, an Americana, indie rock band from Portland, OR, on their stage starting at 7:00 p.m. Find out more at www.myspace.com/handthatbleeds.

Risingson, the locally-based blues and psychedelic rock band known best for their incredible Hendrix covers, plays at Hooligans just off Center Street on Tuesday starting at 9:00 p.m. Find out more at www.myspace.com/risingsonlive.

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