I’ve been trying to highlight some local original music bands lately, as well as visiting bands and, of course, our fine crop of cover/tribute bands. This week RIBCO began their February Battle of the Bands. Each Friday there is a battle round, with three bands battling each of the first 3 weeks, and the winners of those rounds duking it out the final weekend. I won’t be attending all four weeks, but I was there on Friday for the first round.
The Effie Afton began the night with their emo-influenced indie sound. Musically, these guys are far ahead of the curve, with attention to detail and a way of finessing the sound they want. I caught a bit of their show when they did a short set recently at Rozztox, and was elated to see them entered in the battle at RIBCO. Their competition was strong, and had a solid following – which is something The Effie Afton is still building. They are definitely a local band to watch.
1380 was next on stage. This group has a huge following, and it is easy to see why. First they are a whole bunch of talented musicians. Second is their very energetic rock sound. And third – a front man who really works the audience. A good friend once told me that you can have the best band or the worst band in the world – but you’re only as good as the one fronting the band. That’s because the lead singer is the one who interacts with the audience – and is the one with whom they most identify. Delving a little deeper into this band and their sound, guitarists Michael Gustafson and Justin DeToye showed us that a good part of their signature sound comes from some very unique guitar skills.
The final band for the night was alt-rock band Deluxe Republic. Back from a short break, this bunch came into the battle with brand-new songs. It took some guts to premier new songs for a battle round - and the songs were well received by their very vocal fan base. However, they didn't have the numbers of 1380 (no pun intended) and lost this first round. I'll be looking forward to seeing which bands are chosen from the next 2 rounds.
On my way home I took a swing by Heros Pub. (it really is on my way home, from just about anywhere). I found the Dirt Road Rockers deep into their final set for the night. It looked to me like they had a wild night – which left me wondering what I had missed. They’ve had some personnel changes since the last time I saw them, and new guitarist Collin Keemle has really stepped up and puts on a good show.
As always - you can find more photos on my Flickr page HERE.
This week:
Tonight: It's Jam night! In addition to the John O'Meara Jam at Muddy's and The Avey Brothers' Jam at Rascals, tonight brings the return of the Dam View Open Mic, hosted by Alan Sweet and Michael Miller. In addition, Harrington's Pub has Chuck Murphy, and Danika Holmes is at Barrelhouse 211.
Friday: Curtis Hawkins Band is at Fat Fish Pub, and you can find Chuck Murphy at Lancers. RIBCO continues the battle with My Pal Trigger, Permasmile and The Easy Mark. Mo Carter of the Busted Chandeliers is opening for Dan Hubbard at the Humidors at RozzTox, while Cobalt Blue is at the 11th Street Precinct. The Wild Oatz are playing Martinis on the Rascals has Funktastic 5, and the Mississippi Misfits will be at The Muddy Waters.
Saturday: It's a big night at the Back Door, with Haddonfield, Phineas, Straight Up, Hello Ramona and Kings. Steve McFate and Friends will be at Tim's Corner Tap, Terry and the Loan Sharks are at Rascals, and The Sneaking Suspicions debut at Brady Street Pub. Vodkaseven is playing the Rusty Nail, Cosmic is at the 11th St. Precinct, and The Muddy Waters has Victor Wainwright at the Wildroots band with openers The Karry Outz. Cheese Pizza and Shadow Stone round out the calendar at Martinis on the Rock.
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