Column for July 1, 2009

Tonight, Wednesday the 1st of July, American Steel kicks off America’s independence weekend at the Civitan’s Revive @ Five concert at the Old Town Pavilion (map), downtown Pocatello. American Steel plays from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., sponsored by the AV Center and catered by Texas Roadhouse. (Revive @ Five 2009 schedule)

American Steel plays rock covers in local bars around the area. They have fun with their crowd, with small costume changes (70’s wigs and beards for “Play That Funky Music” and “Tush”) and sound effects for the show (crickets chirping for a quiet audience). They play classic rock, funk, blues and country rock; expect to hear “Rebel Yell,” “Mustang Sally,” and a recent addition to the set list, “Low Rider.” (Full interview with American Steel)

Led by guitarist Tracy Turner and fronted by vocalist Kat Whitnah a.k.a. Pat Whitmar, American Steel includes Darrell Martin on drums, and two new members: keyboardist Marci Ridley, who also plays flute and sax, and Ray Rodriquez (watch for an Elvis impersonation) on bass.

The members of American Steel are based in Pocatello; they will be playing at the Blue Moon in Lava (map) on Pioneer Weekend, the July 24th weekend, starting at 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. They have played in Island Park, Montana and Wyoming, For more, email americansteelrocks@yahoo.com or find them online at www.myspace.com/americansteel4u.

On Thursday July 2nd, the modern alt. rock band to watch from Idaho Falls, 2am Logic headlines Idaho State University’s concert on the Quad (map) with soloist Michael Sullivan opening. Music starts at 6:00 p.m., free and open to the public.

2am Logic released their freshman recording effort, “Shattered,” earlier this year, a twelve-track full-scale view of 2am Logic as a band; it’s something that could be described as 3 Days Grace meets Seether, with a touch of blues / jazz thrown into the mix. (Full interview with 2am Logic)

Guitarist Todd Thompson fronts 2am Logic, with Dustin Thueson and Cody Scheer on guitars, Kathy Brown on bass and drummer Shawn Ringel. They’ve shared the stage with Pop Evil and Rev Theory, and in July will open for Great White and Firehouse at Sandy Downs in Idaho Falls. Find out more at www.myspace.com/2amlogic

Michael Sullivan plays a mixture of pop, jazz, funk and what he calls “a few secret ingredients.” Originally from Chicago, IL, and now living in southern California, Sullivan plays in a 5-piece band, but is traveling for this show as a duo with a saxophonist / guitarist. (Full interview with Michael Sullivan)

I asked Sullivan if he’d recorded a video of his music. Friends wanted to help shoot a video for his song "Stay for a While," filming the emotionally darker images on the first day of a two-day shoot. But his friends “got sick on the last day … so we never got to shoot the light material to balance it out.” The resulting video showed a much deeper, darker visual, which does not accurately fit the song. “I learned a very valuable lesson: to make sure whoever offers to help you sees what you see concept-wise, so you end up with your vision, not theirs.” Find out more at www.mikesullivanband.com.

And on Friday the 3rd, PAKT House Productions presents Hollywood Undead with guests Mest and The Sleeping at the El Rey Events Center in Blackfoot, ID (map). Doors open at 6:30, music starts at 7:30. Tickets are $18.50 in advance or $20 day of the show, available at www.ticketweb.com or charge by phone at (866) 468 – 7624.

Hollywood Undead is a rap rock band from Los Angeles, California, formed in 2005. Their most popular song, "Undead," is featured on the Madden NFL 09 soundtrack, reaching #2 on Billboard’s U.S. Main Rock chart. The single, "Young," is featured as one of the bonus tracks in the video game Rock Band 2. More at www.hollywoodundead.com.

Mest is an alt. rock punk band from Chicago, Illinois and The Sleeping is an alt. rock band from Long Island, New York. Find them online at www.myspace.com/mest and www.myspace.com/thesleeping.

Also on Friday, Gene Galloway and Bruce Bowman will be on tap for acoustic folk music entertainment at Portneuf Valley Brewing (map) on Friday starting at 8:30 p.m. The pub will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on 4th of July, but no entertainment is scheduled for the evening.

Speaking of 4th of July, at 8:00 p.m., Aaron Ball’s band Somewhere in the Middle performs at The Biggest Show in Idaho, the Independence Day celebration at Bannock County Fairgrounds (map). It’s the place to be on Saturday. (Full interview with Aaron Ball)

Tuesday the 7th, the Kratz Bros. Band plays at Hooligans, Center St. (map) in Pocatello at 8:00 p.m.

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

slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com - blog home page
www.myspace.com/showmetheband - schedule of Live Music !!

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 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 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

Interview with Jack's Mannequin

What: Jack's Mannequin
When: April 9, 2009
Where: Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium - map
How Much: $24.00 - tickets

Josh Tielor, of SE Idaho's 92.1 The Edge radio scored a killer interview with Andrew McMahon of Jack's Mannequin. Check out his blog here.

Andrew McMahon is a singer/songwriter, the vocalist, pianist and primary songwriter for the bands Something Corporate and Jack's Mannequin.

In June of 2005, McMahon was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The music website AbsolutePunk.net had orange wristbands specially made, reading "I Will Fight," a line from the song "Watch The Sky," said to be McMahon's favorite song he ever wrote. They sold close to 6,000 bands, raising over $20,000 donated to the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation. [wiki]

McMahon received a stem cell transplant. In July 2006, McMahon founded a non-profit charity, the Dear Jack Foundation, a source from different charities that channel their proceeds into those organizations that raise money, awareness and do research with blood cancers. Now some three years healthy, McMahon is feeling good and can't complain.

Jack's Mannequin will perform at the Idaho Falls Civic Auditorium Thursday, April 9th with Thriving Ivory and Low vs. Diamond.

This is Jack Mannequin's first trip to SE Idaho, "so we're excited. This tour is actually really cool since we have the opportunity to go to a lot of places we haven't been before." Expect to hear a mix from both Jack Mannequin's records, Everything in Transit, released in 2005 and The Glass Passenger, released in September of last year.

"We like to throw stuff in there like a Something Corporate song or a cover. ... We like to keep it loose enough ... and keep it spontaneous. You never know what you're gonna get, I guess."

Tielor asked if McMahon has a pinnacle or golden moment? "Playing Leno definitely had that effect. ... Wow, we're gonna go on and play with Jay Leno! ... For me that was a pretty sweet moment."

Interview with Battery Park Country

Who: Battery Park Country
What: In Concert
When: Wednesday, June 10, 2009, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: Old Town Pavilion, Pocatello, ID - map


Battery Park Country is on the schedule for this week's Revive @ Five. They play a variety of music anywhere from classic country, classic rock to top 40 country. I caught up with Susan Greenwell recently about the band and their upcoming show.

SLG: Tell me about the band and your music. What kind of music do you play and what are some of your most popular songs?

SG: Our main objective is to try and please everyone we are playing for, but of course there are those few you just can't please. Our most requested song is "Brown Eyed Girl" - that one seems to get everyone on their feet dancing.

SLG: Do you have a favorite venue in town? What was your best show ever?

SG: Our most memorable venue was at the Green T last year when John Rich (of Big & Rich) got on the stage and played a song with us.

SLG: Yes! I was there - it was a really cool moment. Tell me about who's in the band and what they play?

SG: There are 5 of us in the band
Devon Breshears - Lead Vocals, Guitar
He is originally from Phoenix, AZ but now lives with his family in Blackfoot. He has been playing since the age of 16 and has played throughout the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Bob Daulton - Drums, Vocals
He began playing at the age of 12 with his father at the Green T and later with local rock bands and in bands while in the Air Force. He currently lives in Pocatello with his wife and family.

Rick Scott - Keyboard,Vocals
He bagan performing in High School, playing in night clubs, fairs and festivals throughout the U.S., mainly from New Orleans to Bakersfield, to Pocatello where he now lives with his wife and family.

Al Kuta - Bass Guitar
A Pocatello native, he has played extensively in the Los Angeles area, with experience in recording and T.V. (with Tina Turner)

Susan Greenwell - Lead Vocals
From Pocatello, I began singing in High School and started performing with my sister and brothers in a group called Double Take. Now I have been with Battery Park for the past 4 years.

SLG: What are you working on now?

SG: We are currently working a CD and our own web site. We are at the Revive at 5, June 10, and then after that we are back at the 5 Mile in Chubbuck, the 19th and 20th of June.

I think that our band loves to have fun, and if the people watching us see that, then they tend to have fun themselves. and that's what we really like to see.

Interview with 2 AM Logic

Who: 2am Logic
What: CD Release Party
Where: First National Bar, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Friday, April 3rd, 2009, 8:00 p.m.
How Much: $5 at the door

I caught up with Todd Thompson, guitarist and vocalist for 2am Logic about their new CD and upcoming shows in S. Idaho.

Peace and Rock, baby, Peace and Rock.

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

TT: 2am Logic is a modern rock band. Not too heavy, melody driven with thick guitar riffs driving our sound. With story songs like Private Hell, spiteful songs like Get Bent, and ballads such as Bottled and Gone, we can run an audience through a full range of emotions, while keeping a high energy level throughout. I think that explains our broad appeal when it comes to our fan base. We have older and younger fans, we have people from all walks of life and a wide variety of musical tastes that dig our tunes. And that's always a good thing.

SLG: Describe the new CD in particular. As best as you can, what kind of other bands can we compare this music to?

TT: Our CD, Shattered, is out this week. It's a twelve-track, full-scale view of 2am Logic as a band. It starts with Again (For the Moment) and rolls though a great snapshot of our influences, from the bluesy Italy to the acoustic Soul For Sale. Overall, Shattered reflects our style.

We even had our good friend Scott Taylor [The Unread] co-write and be a guest vocalist on Human, and we are extremely proud of the work he put into this album. Mad props to Mr. Taylor; he's one hell of a producer and a great musician to work with.

To compare to other bands: 3 Days Grace meets Seether, but with a touch of blues/jazz thrown into the mix.

SLG: Who is in 2am Logic and what do they play? How long has this line-up been together?

Dustin Thueson – Guitars

Shawn “Piklz” Ringel – Drums
Kathy Brown – Bass
Cody Scheer – Guitars
Todd Thompson – Guitars, Vocals

In my humble opinion, we are a great mix of seasoned vets and young raw talent, with 3 of our members being in several previous bands, and the other two in their first band.

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

TT: Rigby/Idaho falls, with 4 out of 5 born right here in Eastern Idaho.

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

TT: We’ve shared the stage with a couple of great touring acts already this year, Pop Evil and Rev Theory, and in July we get to open for Great White and Firehouse at Sandy Downs in IF. That show is called Rock The Falls and will be hosted by Ambre Lake (from Rock of Love 2).

Upcoming Pocatello shows include April 19th with Broke City and Witness the Forecast at Barrie's, which should be a great all ages show.

Our tour schedule is listed at www.myspace.com/2amlogic if you’d like more details on any of our upcoming gigs.

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

TT: Friday, April 3rd at The First National Bar is our CD release party. We snared some great bands to play along side us for this one: Scratch, an Idaho Falls straight-up rock band is kicking off the night, followed by Haxsaw Ridge, a solid heavy rock band, with The Unread next (those guys need no introduction, they’re one of the best bands out there) and then 2am Logic finishing off the night.

Basically we chose our favorite local bands to join us. And even though they all represent slightly different genres, the binding thread between all of them is great melodies with addicting guitar riffs, which is exactly what makes them great bands.

Doors are at 8pm, show at 9pm, and there’s a $5 cover charge. It’s 21 and up only, but if you are underage we encourage you to check out our show at Barrie's on the 19th; its all ages.

2am Logic - Photo by Scott Taylor

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?

TT: The local music scene? I can’t say enough about the quality of musicians here and what great guys and gals they are. When I first came to Eastern Idaho I didn’t think there was much in the way of local music. But the more opportunities we've had to work with other local bands, the more I saw that not only are there some really talented players here, but they are all really cool people and have the common goal of promoting not just their bands but the whole scene. That kind of unselfish mentality creates a great atmosphere – check your ego at the door and let’s jam

SLG: Amen, my brothuh. Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

TT: CDs, of course! T-shirts and necklaces as well. The necklaces are made by Kathy Brown and Alicia Thompson and incorporate guitar picks with 2am Logic’s logo. Each one’s unique; they’re really cool.

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

TT: Myspace is the way to go. But if you are at a show, we encourage you to come talk to us (we don’t bite, well, sometimes Piklz does but he’s had his shots). Its always good to talk to people face to face; the internet is too impersonal.

Interview with Redline

Who: Redline
What: In concert, opening for Trust Company
Where: The Icon, Pocatello, ID - map
When: Thursday, May 7, 2009.


Redline is a hard rock/metal band. There is a wide range of songs on the album, that appeals to a larger audience. When we are the headlining act, we’re able to put on a much more high energy show mixed with lots of effects, lights, and pyrotechnics. This is limited due to the time factor and another band headlining. We bring a lot of energy to the stage in a very professional manner.

Our songs and shows are directed to an all ages crowed, which have been developed over years of playing live with many big bands to many local bands. We have learned a lot on what to do and not to do. We have songs like “Fight,” “Breathe,” or “No Excuse” that are heavy and appeal to metal fans. Other songs like “Control” which has been played on radio stations throughout the west, appeal more to Rock fans. We do have slower songs that appeal to the ladies, like “Gone Away.” We had the opportunity to play this song live on KBER right after it was written. The response we got from this was huge.

The members of REDLINE:

Todd Page is the lead singer, flashy frontman, rhythm & acoustic guitars for the band. He writes most the lyrics and some of the music and keeps tight reigns on the musical direction and business direction of the band.

Glen Petty is the king of guitars, and backing vocals. He writes most of the guitar parts and all of the blistering leads, some very melodic and others to melt your face. He brings all the energy and personality you can handle in one show. He’s very outgoing and loves to interact with his fans. He also deals with PR for the band.

Jack Wininger is the backbone to this band. He plays the bass guitar and backing vocals. Jack is the mouthpiece for the band, he does all the booking and a lot of the PR work for the band. If you contact the band, Jack will most likely be the one you will be dealing with. He also handles a lot of the business side for the band.

Bill Page is the drummer. He deals mostly with the business end of things. He deals with the Management Company and Record Label. He also deals with the merchandise and live sound and effects for the shows.

As you can see each member has a lot of responsibilities in order to keep the band going, we all work closely together and each member is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Todd, Glen, And Bill are from Idaho, and Jack is from California. We all reside in Idaho at the present time.

We have played shows and venues from the world famous Whiskey a Go Go in L.A. to no name places in Boise, ID. We have played all over the west. In Pocatello we played the first Pokapalooza’s. The shows were huge and packed wall to wall with screaming people. We love the fans in Pocatello and the music scene is Great. There are so many very talented bands from Pocatello and Idaho Falls areas. We love to play with the bands from these areas; it's always a good time.

We do have lots of merchandise for sale both online and at every show. We have CD’s, shirts, hats, beanies, etc. We do give away stickers, posters and other merchandise at the shows and on radio. We give away lots of stuff and love to interact with fans so please come talk to us, we will sign anything for you.

The show at the ICON should be a great show. Its all ages show and is a suitable environment for most kids. Although some show do get a little crazy, this I do suspect to be one of those. We have an incredible lineup and the Trust Company is a very good band. They have very catchy songs and have toured with some of the best bands of our era. If you haven’t seen them live before, you’re in for a huge treat, great songs and high energy, it’s going to be one of the best shows of the year, and Pocatello fans never disappoint.

To be in the music business these days is very challenging and very rewarding, the day of the major labels owning the airwaves is a thing of the past. There are so many avenues to get your music out there and to build huge fan bases. People are always looking for new music and new bands to support. Music plays such a huge part in people’s lives, for a musician to be able to write a song and get it out there to be heard and have people like it is such a great feat. We would like to give props to any musician that is out there day in and day out, blood, sweat, and tears to give us the great music we all enjoy today. Keep up the great work and we will see you on the road.

REDLINE
Contact us at:
www.redlinekicks.com
www.myspace.com/redlinetunes
redline_tunes@hotmail.com

Interview with Drop Dead Julio

Who: Drop Dead Julio - website
What: Rock band, in concert, with 2AM Logic - interview
Where: Benton Street Bar & Grill, Pocatello, Idaho - map
When: Friday, October 30, 2009, 9:00 p.m.
How Much: $5 cover at the door

I met Gene Kennedy, of Drop Dead Julio, at a popular casual restaurant, The Blue Plate Diner, in Salt Lake City. I'm not sure exactly when it was, but it must have been early to mid 2007, way Way WAY before Guy Fieri went there.

As we waited 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 Gene came over and corrected my pronunciation, "It's Drop Dead Joolio," with a "j," not with an "h" sound. And we visited a bit about their upcoming gigs, where they've played and where they're going. When I got home, I sent a friend request on MySpace, and we've stayed in contact ever since.

Why it's taken me this long to get an interview, I don't know. And I expect Gene doesn't even remember that first meeting. But I do, and I'm now correcting a long-time oversight.


GK: Drop Dead Julio is about all of us having a great time together. We’re really a fan-centered band. We write songs with them in mind, songs that have energy and catchy choruses that people can sing along to. Whether there’s a crowd surfing blow up doll or we’re just poking fun at each other, the live show is where we connect and have fun with people. Come to our Oct. 30th show at Benton Street Grill in Pocatello or our Nov. 7th show at The Knitting Factory in Boise and see it for yourself!

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?

GK: We’re a rock band first and foremost but we do have that punk-pop side of us as well. You could say it’s a cross between Green Day and Papa Roach. Lyrically we tackle some serious subjects but we also have those party songs too. No matter what the topic, the songs are always upbeat and very melody driven with big harmony vocals. We do some occasional screaming too even though we’re not a “scream” band.

Fans really like “The Break Up,” “The Youth are Disillusioned” and “Breaking News.”

One thing our fans also really like is the fact that we take cover songs and put our own twist on them. For example, watch our version of "Hit Me Baby One More Time" by Britney Spears. (Click here for video.)

Gene Kennedy – Vocals/Guitar
James Checrallah — Bass
Brian Jensen — Guitar/Vocals
James Julio (Julie-OH)- Drums

GK: We’ve been a band for 4 years now our name is a mocking joke on our drummer.

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

GK: I’m from Southern California, and the punk scene down there definitely influences my writing. I moved to Salt Lake City from Reno in 2006 and formed Drop Dead Julio shortly after. DDJ is a Salt Lake City band.

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

GK: We had an amazing summer locally. Drop Dead Julio just played Warped Tour in Salt Lake City, sharing the stage with After Midnight Project. We also opened for The Lemonheads, Royal Bliss and 12 Stones over the summer. 97.5 The Blaze invited us on their Wednesday Rocks concert series at the Gallivan Center. FOX 13 also recently featured the band in a live performance at Liquid Joe’s, and this is actually our 4th visit to the Pocatello/Idaho Falls area.

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

GK: We are playing an all-ages rock show at the Benton Street Grill, Friday, October 30. We’ll hit the stage at 10 p.m., play for an hour maybe longer, and then 2AM Logic from Idaho Falls will headline. It’s just our two bands, but we’re gonna throw it down and put on a great show for everyone. Even though it’s all-ages anyone over 21 can drink at Benton Street, and it’s only $5 to get in.

We are also playing Boise Saturday November 7th @ The Knitting Factory with our friends in Abrupt Edge.

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?

GK: It’s work, work, work but, it’s rewarding work! We treat Drop Dead Julio as a full-time job. Every day we promote online and I think honestly, the internet is the best way to get your music out. Playing tight, high-energy shows is also crucial to keeping your name alive, but you have to work hard to get people there.

We’re playing all-ages more and more, because the kids are great to us and they’re so excited about the music. We’re excited too and any chance we have to play for a crowd, any type of crowd, we make the most of those opportunities. All I can say is that we’re living our dream one day at a time!



Back in March we also did a short movie-trailor style documentary on the making of our latest CD, “The Stories We Could Tell.” (Click here to check it out.)

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

GK: We’ll have copies of both our CDs for sale, “Lack of Direction” and our latest, “The Stories We Could Tell.” Those are $5 each and our t-shirts are $10 each.

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

GK: Fans can text us by signing up at www.broadtexter.com/DDJ, OR They can email us @ dropdeadjulio@gmail.com.

We can also be reached at www.myspace.com/dropdeadjulio, www.twitter.com/dropdeadjulio and on Facebook. Add us, we’ll definitely write you back!

Interview with Shawn and The Marauders

Who: Shawn and the Marauders
What: Rock and funk band in concert / Masquerade party
Where: The First National Bar, W. Center St., Pocatello ID
When: Saturday, September 18, 2010. 8:00 p.m.

Shawn and the Marauders are an up-and-coming, Pocatello-based rock, folk and funk group. Lead by guitarist, singer and songwriter Shawn Barnby and backed by a two-piece rhythm section, this will be the go-to band for rock concerts in the area. I recently caught up with bassist James "Bird" McCoy (who, by the way, has an incredibly sexy deep voice on the phone. Just sayin') to find out more about the band.

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?

JM: We call it "Americana," a blend of folk rock, southern style, pop, rock & roll, blues, hip-hop and funk.

3 crowd favorites are: "Scarface" a tribute to the 90's gangsta rap artist, "Hot Corn Cold Corn" a beefed-up folk song about moonshining, and "Hoodrat Love" a groovy, 70's pop inspired arrangement about a hot girl who's playing hard-to-get.

Our songs generally encompass a variety of more "adult" material; mainly sex, booze, being naughty, talking smack, getting in trouble etc.

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

JM: Shawn Barnby (vocals/guitar), Casey Johnson (drums), James "Bird" McCoy (bass)

Front man, Shawn Barnby, is a very unique and captivating entertainer. Bass player, James "Bird" McCoy, and drummer, Casy Johnson, bring an undeniable blend of classic and contemporary - LIVE- funk, rock and hard bumping dance grooves.

Casey and I have been developing our rhythm section for a long time before this band started. We've backed several local artists prior to Shawn and The Marauders' birth.
Shawn had been an amateur solo acoustic artist in Pocatello for a couple of years before Casey and I recruited him in April 2010 to do a full band show with us. Together, so far, we've developed mostly Shawn's original acoustic songs into a full blown power trio performance.

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

JM: We've performed multiple times at Flips!de Lounge, First National Bar, Hooligans, Pie Hole, Bull Moose Lodge in Alpine, Timberline in Victor/Driggs, Lakeside lodge in Island Park, Oasis Bar in Twin Falls, Road to Hempfest tour 2010 at The Point After in Salt Lake City, Portneuff Valley Farmers' Market, Old Town Pocatello, The Wild Hare Festival 2010, and many, many private engagements.

We are available anywhere if we can afford to pay for the trip.

SLG: Recordings?

JM: We have some recordings posted on Facebook and Myspace.

Our recordings were provided by Joe Hunt of Greyhouse Effect.

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

JM: We promise at least 3 hours of solid, original rock, pop, and dance music to get 'em dancing and keep 'em celebrating all night... And we do it with a professional attitude.

Although our music is all original, the sounds are all very familiar to people who are used to hearing cover songs. We draw on influences from what we believe are "everyone's" favorite popular songs from the last 50 or 60 years. We don't pay much attention to modern country music however, I have to admit. But everything else goes into the mix!

SLG: What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

JM: It is our intention to become the most sought after original rock band in this region, and we do that by delivering an authentic, original and dynamic show, strictly for people who want to have fun and get their groove on.

TBA Magazine's September issue features an interview with Shawn and the Marauders, and it has the specifics about the Masquerade Party on September 18th.

More on Facebook.

Interview with Justin Klump

Who: Justin Klump
What: In Concert
Where: Idaho State University Quad, Pocatello, ID
When: Thursday, Jule 11, 2009, 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
How Much: Free !!

The grandson of a Symphony conductor, Justin Klump was raised with a respect for music and a love for performing. Whether playing solo or with his band, at the core of Justin's live show is a certain mastery of the guitar. Portland Classic Guitar declared Justin's show to be "Stunning" and "Unforgettable!" and Entertainment World exclaimed "Here's a young man whose voice and guitar play will knock your socks off!"

At the heart of these performances is a 25 year-old who is earning the respect of audiences across the country. Having played such venues as Qwest Arena in Boise, Hotel Café in Los Angeles and Aladdin Theater and Crystal Ballroom in Portland, Justin is distinguishing himself as a musician worth watching. Logging over a hundred thousand miles flying and driving throughout the country, he has shared the stage with such notable acts as Everclear, Matt Nathanson and Tyrone Wells.

"I want to get to a point where I can tour eight to ten months of the year and play constantly," Klump says. "I love performing." He started playing the guitar at 15. "Music has always been in my family; it's such a part of who I am. I'd done music since I was born, but when I started playing the guitar and writing songs, the pieces fit. I knew what I had to do with my life."


SLG: You're a solo act? Have you worked with other musicians in a full band before?

JK: I do most of my touring outside of Oregon and Washington as a solo act because it’s easiest logistically and financially. For instance, as a solo act, I can hop on a plane to Boise, rent a small car that I can drive to Pocatello in and just throw my guitar and gear in the trunk. Bringing a band, there’s quite a bit more to figure out and arrange.

I’ve played with a lot of great musicians and have a band that I play with for a lot of my Portland dates and some Seattle shows. I’ve been doing a lot of traveling over the past few months, so I’ve played a lot of solo shows lately. This summer, I’ll be playing most of my Portland and Seattle dates with a band though.

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

JK: I was born and raised in Vancouver, WA, and am currently based out of there. At shows, I usually say that I’m from Portland, Oregon, but that’s just to avoid playing the runaround with people that have no clue where Vancouver, Washington is. People, especially on the East Coast, or in the South, tend to know where Portland, Oregon is, but they have no clue where Vancouver, Washington is.

When I do say that I’m from Vancouver, WA, the conversation usually goes something like this…

So you’re from Canada?

No, I’m from Washington.

Oh, Washington DC?

No, Washington state…it’s near Portland.

Maine?
And you can imagine how the rest of the conversation usually goes.

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

JK: Last summer, I played at the Qwest Arena in Boise, and I’ve played a few other colleges in Idaho. I tour regularly throughout the country and have played some cool venues like Hotel Café in Los Angeles, Aladdin Theater and Crystal Ballroom in Portland and Nectar in Seattle.

SLG: Do you have any videos on YouTube? If so, what is the url?

JK: The best place to check out videos is on my website at www.justinklump.com, but the direct YouTube url is youtube.com/jkmusicllc



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

JK: I’ll have copies of my new album, Thousand Mile Dream, as well as some copies of an earlier EP, Something for September.

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

JK: I’m on Twitter (twitter.com/justinklump) Facebook Music (Facebook, search for Justin Klump), MySpace (myspace.com/justinklump) and I have my contact info up on my website at JustinKlump.com, email is Justin@justinklump.com.

Column for June 16, 2010

Although summer weather hasn’t hit full swing in southeast Idaho, the outdoor concerts have, this week, with three free outdoor shows, plus one special and intimate indoor performance by a returning favored musician.

Tonight, Swifter Currents, a locally-based 3-piece rockin’ bluegrass band, takes the stage at the Old Town Pavilion on N. Main Street (view on map) for Revive at Five (view full schedule), sponsored by American Family Insurance. Food will be provided by The Sand Trap. The concert is free and open to all ages, 5 to 8:00 p.m.

Tomorrow the 17th, Danielle Vaughn opens for the Mike Sullivan band at Idaho State University’s concert on the quad (view on map). The show will be moved inside the Student Union Building in case of inclement weather. Music entertainment is free and open to all ages, starting at 6:00 p.m. (view full schedule).

Based from Utah, Danielle Vaughn is a singer / songwriter, playing styles from folk to bluesy jazz. She currently holds an Arts degree with emphasis on classical piano. Her voice has been compared to the likes of Alison Krauss and Eva Cassidy. Find out more at www.daniellevaughn.com.

Singer and guitarist Michael Sullivan, based from Los Angeles, delivers an oh-so-smooth performance pop, jazz, funk that wow’d the crowd at ISU last summer. His music is perhaps comparable to Jack Johnson, Dave Matthews or John Mayer. The Los Angeles Music Awards gave him a nod with a nomination for Independent Male Singer / Songwriter of the Year. More at www.mikesullivanband.com. Read full interview.

My favorite concert of the week is on Friday the 18th. Shannon Curtis, vocalist, songwriter and sultry pianist, favors the area with an intimate concert at The Vinyl Perk on S. Main St. (view on map), starting at 7:00 p.m. The show is free and open to all ages.

Shannon Curtis is perhaps best known in the area as a popular repeat performer at ISU’s summer concerts, where she has headlined solo twice, and with her former band, Paradigm, several times before that. If you haven’t caught her show before, imagine Norah Jones meets Colbie Callait. Of her music, Curtis says, “People can expect to be happier when they leave this show than when they came.”

Originally from Stockton, CA and now based from Los Angeles, Curtis has been touring as a solo artist for the last three years, all over the country, laying 130,000 miles on her VW Jetta. “I tour constantly and think it's the very best way to connect my music to music lovers,” Curtis said. “Even though the internet provides endless opportunities for digital distribution of music, there is nothing that replaces the personal and intimate experience of a live show.”

Curtis recently released her first full-length CD, "I Play the Piano and Sing Love Songs," in March of this year. She will also have her three previous EPs available for purchase at the show, released in 2009, 2008, and 2007. She’ll also bring brand-new t-shirts and posters for sale. Find out more at www.shannoncurtis.net. Read full interview.

And on Saturday the 19th, Riverfest (website) returns to Taysom Rotary Park in Pocatello (view on map), rain or shine, from 2 to 9:00 p.m. Let’s hope for shine! This year, The Clumsy Lovers headline the music entertainment at Riverfest, with southeast Idaho’s Somewhere In the Middle opening. Prize drawing is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

Somewhere In the Middle, featuring vocalist Aaron Ball, plays rock music that is modern, acoustic-based, middle of the road (not too hard, not too soft). They have been compared the GooGoo Dolls, 3 Doors Down or a softer version of Shinedown. The bulk of their music is original, but their live shows also incorporate a few covers, humor, dialogue and interaction with the crowd. Their single, “Second Gear,” is on regular rotation on regional and national radio stations. Request it! And visit www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic for more. Read full interview.

The Clumsy Lovers, a Canadian-based bluegrass dance band, has been a local favorite for years, arguably the band with the greatest fan base in our area. They are constantly on tour with more than 2000 live performances under their belt.

“Make Yourself Known,” the Clumsy Lovers’ most recent CD release, is perhaps my favorite to date, attaining that often elusive balance between smart studio production and a rompin’ live show feel. Listen for the new single, “Way Down the Old Plank Road.” It’s a good one. Find out more at www.clumslylovers.com.

Also this week: Elvis Has Left the Building plays at Sandbagger’s on Thursday, the Mike Banks Band plays at Marigolds Wine this weekend, and Portneuf Valley Brewing has Almosta Band on Friday and Corsetti and Davis on Saturday.

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

Interview with Shannon Curtis

Who: Shannon Curtis
What: Vocalist, pianist, in concert
Where: The Vinyl Perk, 150 S Main St., Pocatello, ID - (view on map)
When: Friday, June 18, 2010, 7 to 9:00 p.m.

I first met Shannon Curtis in 2007. We had exchanged a few emails before her headlining performance at Idaho State University, and I saw her show there plus a follow-up show in Salt Lake City. I really, really dig this chick.

Shannon caught up with me recently about her return to the area, an intimate concert at the Vinyl Perk this weekend. What follows below is a blend of my 2007 interview together with current information. Enjoy!


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?

SC: I play the piano and sing love songs. Some of them are sappy love songs, some are the pissed-off, jilted-lover kind of love songs. I suppose I have a few things I'm working out. ;) I've heard people describe my style as being what might happen if Norah Jones and Fiona Apple had a love child. Not sure who the surrogate dad would be -- it's open to suggestion. :)

SLG: Have you always been a solo performer? Or do you have history with a full band?

SC: I've been touring as a solo artist for the last 3 years -- all over the country, in my VW Jetta, over 130,000 miles!

The very last show I ever played with my former rock band, Paradigm, was in Pocatello on June 25, 2006. Paradigm played at Idaho State multiple times over the course of our touring career, and each time we had such a great time because the people were so enthusiastic. And they kept asking us to come back! Which is great.

(The 2007 performance at Idaho State University was the first time Curtis played her solo material in Pocatello. -SLG)


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

SC: I'm currently based in Los Angeles, CA, but I'm originally from a northern California town called Stockton.

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

SC: I've played at ISU in Pocatello several times over the last several years -- twice as a solo act, and at least 3 times prior to that with my former band, Paradigm.

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

SC:
Friday, June 18
7pm - 9pm
The Vinyl Perk
All ages
Free
opening act TBD; I'll be the headlining act at 8pm.

What people can expect from my part of the show is an hour of me on a big ol' piano, singing love songs, and having a great time with the audience. That's usually how it goes down. People can expect to be happier when they leave this show than when they came.

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?

SC: I tour constantly and think it's the very best way to connect my music to music lovers. The internet, which, ironically, is what the 'industry' blames for its struggles, is the most powerful tool the world has ever seen in terms of delivering music to people. Especially new music.

Even though the internet provides endless opportunities for digital distribution of music, there is nothing that replaces the personal and intimate experience of a live show.



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


SC: Absolutely. I just released my first full-length CD, "I Play the Piano and Sing Love Songs," in March. It consists of piano and voice-only recordings. I will also have my three previous EPs available at the show, released in 2009, 2008, and 2007. In addition, I have brand-new t-shirts and posters for sale.

(Link to CD on iTunes. Shannon Curtis on CD Baby. -SLG)

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

SC: website: http://shannoncurtis.net
myspace: www.myspace.com/shannoncurtismusic.