Broad Ripple Gazette vol 9, no 8

first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Record Store Day
Saturday, April 21, 2012

Yay! It’s Record Store Day time, which is the day that folks shed their winter blahs and jump feet first into celebrating the fact that we live in a kick-ass community. Independent record stores are a scare bunch around the country and we are lucky enough to have three within a mile of each other. And they are all thriving and a great part of our community. 

All three stores will host live music and have exclusive Record Store Day albums and sales. My suggestion is that you at least wander in to all three of them. I think in-store concerts are a great way to sample the band’s music in a laid-back setting. And the shows are always family friendly, free, and a great way to meet other folks in our community. I’m so excited that I’m taking the evening off from waitressing at the Red Key (thanks Cindi and Leslie!) so that I can enjoy the whole day. 

-Visit www.recordstoreday.com to see great videos of bands promoting RSD and for an idea of the exclusive record releases. Read below for a list of bands playing at Indy CD & Vinyl, LUNA music, and Vibes.

Indy CD & Vinyl
806 Broad Ripple Ave

It’s always a party at Indy CD & Vinyl, but even more so this day. I always find something fun when I’m there, whether it’s music, music magazines, any other of the cool things that line the shelves.  The stage is at the back of the store and the fun often spills out to the sidewalk. 

1:00 – Loyal Divide, 2:00 - New Band Cavalry, 3:00 – Brother Nature Band

www.indycdandvinyl.com

Vibes
1051 E. 54th St (54^th and the Monon Trail)
GloryHole Records Showcase
11:30 – 6:30

DJ Jewey Ramone will be spinning records between bands, and he’s always got something groovy, and typically vintage on his turntable. There will also be plenty of live music throughout the day. The lineup includes: Homeschool, Adam Kuhn, Dead Frets, Everything, Now!,Ancient Slang, Hank Denim, Humans, Apache Dropout , Crys, Learner Dancer, Punk Talk, Vacation Club< he Kemps, Three Man Band.

All of the bands are fun and worth hearing, but do yourselves a favor and try to catch Everything Now! – they are always a treat. 

LUNA music
5202 N. College Avenue

LUNA music turns the corner of 52^nd Street and College Avenue into a block party in honor of Record Store Day. And they start that party early, opening at 8:00 a.m. 

All day you’ll be able to shop their annual sidewalk sale – stacks of $1 CDs, vinyl, and other goodies. They’ll be passing out grab bags, and you can buy a delicious Upland beer to enjoy while you’re shopping and listening to music, they’ll be a special RCD/LUNA merch item, and the joy of being around folks who love music and aren’t afraid to show it. 

The awesome folks behind the website, Laundromatinee will be on site shooting video and handing out goodness. The lovely and talented crafters of Handmade Promenade, will be on hand(made) selling the freshest, single-artisan love. Jolly Tamale will be set up out front, all day, bringing you local tamale love. Mile 44 will be on hand to sell their local, silk-screened show poster badness.

Live performance lineup: noon - Winslow (Indianapolis Debut). 1:00 p.m. – KO  (Kristin from Slothpop's new project), 2:00 p.m. – Mike Adams At His Honest Weight, 3:00 p.m. – Hen, 4:00 p.m. – Sunni Sheets (features members of: Vacation Club, Learner Dancer, and Crys), 5:00 p.m. – Ancient Slang 

www.lunamusic.net

National Moto+Cycle (next to LUNA music)
5206 N. College Avenue
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

I know that I’ve pressed my face up to the window of National Moto+Cycle trying to get a better peek at the wonderful looking two wheeled machines inside, and I bet you have to.  The guys behind the glorious bicycles are opening their doors in honor of Record Store Day. You can get an up-close look at bikes, cargo trailers, fleet bikes, and accessories (woo hoo – accessories!) – including leather helmets, vintage goggles, t-shirts, bags, and People for Urban Progress goodies. 

I can’t wait to ask Matty to explain the whole motor bicycle thing to me. Even though I’m not sure what they are, I know I want one!   

http://nationalmoto.com

Joel Henderson Band, Tad Armstrong, Heidi Gluck
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Radio Radio
1119 E. Prospect Street
21+, nonsmoking, $5

I can’t believe this show is only $5.00! I’d pay way more than that to see all of this talent in one room. All three performers have all played at CATH coffeehouse (RIP) at some point. If you’re a longtime reader of this column you know how much I love Tad Armstrong, his great songwriting and amazing voice. If I could be a musician, I’d choose to be Heidi Gluck. Do I need to say any more? 

The reason for this amazing show is to celebrate Joel Henderson’s CD release. I’ve had “Locked Doors & Pretty Fences” in my player since December and I love it. But don’t take my word for it. The record has already spent time on the top ten of the EuroAmericana charts – sharing the list with Otis Gibbs at one point.  

Not only am I looking forward to hearing his amazing original music live (I promise not to sing along too loud), I can’t wait to see his band. It features Ric Hordinski (Over the Rhine, Daniel Martin Moore) on lead guitars, Byron House (Robert Plant’s Band of Joy, Dixie Chicks) on bass, Heidi Gluck (The Pieces, Some Girls) on guitar and other musical toys, Bill Mallers (Carrie Newcomer) on keys and Dan Dorff (Daniel Martin Moore, Jim James of My Morning Jacket) on drums. How awesome is that? I will certainly see you there! 

www.joelhenderson.com

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 9, no 7

Indiana Artisan Marketplace
Saturday, March 31 (10:00 – 6:00), Sunday, April 1 (10:00 – 5:00)
Expo Hall, Indiana State Fairgrounds
1202 E. 38TH Street
$10, under age 15- free 

Showcasing the creations of Indiana's best artists and artisans, the Indiana Artisan Marketplace returns for a second year at one of my favorite places, the Indiana State Fairgrounds. 

More than 100 artisans from Indiana and an additional 50+ artisans from Kentucky will showcase art and food selected as being among the best in Indiana and Kentucky by food and art jury panels created by Indiana Artisan and Kentucky Crafted.

The Marketplace features one-of-a-kind artwork and foods, including some of my favorites – Geoff Davis and his delightful carved birds, Teri Barnett and her colorful paintings, Erin Jones-Edds and her delicious Hoosier Mama products (I can’t wait to try her newest offering, margarita mix), and Elizabeth Garber and her Best Chocolate in Town truffles (a little trivia: she used to sell her truffles at CATH coffeehouse). 

You get to meet and purchase directly from the artisans. You will be able to watch them create artwork, cultivate relationships with your favorite artisans and celebrate exceptional talent and creativity.

If browsing among all of the delightful art is not enough, there will be Indiana musicians, live art and craft demonstrations, and food and drink tastings. In addition to browsing the booths, visitors again will enjoy Indiana music, live art and craft demonstration and food and drink tasting.

www.indianaartisan.org

 

Pravada, Goldenboy, & Hotfox
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Melody Inn
3826 N. Illinois
8:00, 21+, free 

Butler Scion has put everyone on the guest list for this show – that means it’s free! I’ve been a fan of the delightful band, Hotfox since their high school days, and they are still making me proud. I look forward to seeing them again. 

Pravada features the very talented trio of Jesse Lee, Casey Tennis, and Hubert Glover. After a stint in Margot and the Nuclear So and So’s, the band is back in town and rocking us with their original melodically driven pop-rock. 

Goldenboy is from L.A., so you know they’ll be, well, golden. 

www.melodyindy.com

Broad Ripple Gazette no 9, vol 6

Saint Patrick’s Day activities
Saturday, March 17, 2012

The parade downtown is Friday, and the celebration continues through the weekend. 

Indianapolis City Market (222 E. Market Street) has an excellent day of family-friendly fun planned. There will be lots of things for the adults, too. The Tomlison Tap will be open, U-Relish Farms is hosting Indiana Ceili. Check out www.indycm.com for more details. Nonsmoking, all-ages. 

Union Jack’s Pub, Broad Ripple (924 Broad Ripple Avenue) will have bag pipers strolling through at 6:00 p.m. The Pub has a nice selection of Irish Whiskey and has both Guinness and Smithwicks on tap. Nonsmoking, children are welcome in the family dining room. 

Locals Only (2449 E 56th Street) is hosting the Spud Puppies. The popular bluegrass band only plays occasionally, so catch them when you can. They have added some Celtic tunes for this show, and Locals Only is always a great place to enjoy a whiskey and beer.  Nonsmoking, 21+, 9:00, $5. 

Southern Indiana Tornado Relief Show
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Melody Inn
3826 N. Illinois Street
21+, doors 5:00, music 5:30, $5. donation for Salvation Army

John Barney and Junk Box Mike and the Melody Inn are hosting an evening of music to benefit the victims of the tornados in Southern Indiana. The lineup is seriously stellar, and the show is early enough to stop in on your way home from work. 

5:30 – Chris Wolf. Chris’s music is clever, fun, and heartfelt. It’s always a pleasure to hear him play.
6:00 - Mojo Gumbo. Zydeco, Funk, Blues, and Cajun music mixed into one delicious band.
7:00 – Jeff Beyer. Guitar playing singer/songwriter.
7:30 – John Barney and The Passengers.  County music at its finest.
8:30 – Luis-Miguel. I don’t know a darn thing about Luis-Miguel, but I’m looking forward to hearing him. 9:00 – Bit A Danger. Blues tinged rock, featuring the Red Key’s Jim Settle.
10:00 – John Bowyer. ­Acoustic singer/songwriter with a bit of country. 
10:30 – Mad Wails. Not sure what “soul-rock” is? The Mad Wails will show you.
11:30 – Junk Box Mike. Mike sings about live, love, and fishing. Mostly fishing, really. 

If you’ve never been to the Melody Inn, or haven’t visited in ages, this would be a good chance. The historic Melody Inn features the booths from the Teepee Restaurant and vintage video games – Ms. Packman, anyone? 

You are welcome to donate more than $5 at the door, or visit, https://donate.salvationarmyusa.org/storms to donate online. 

www.melodyindy.com

 

Tim Grimm, Cara Jean Marcy, Bill Price, Evan Slusher
Friday, March 30, 2012
Locals Only
2449 E 56th Street
21+, nonsmoking, $10, 8:00 p.m.

What I great lineup! I’ve had a musical crush on Tim Grimm since the first time I heard him years ago. His shows at CATH coffeehouse were always standing room only. Tim might be the coolest guy I know. Not only has he toured and recorded with Rambin’ Jack Elliott, he’s appeared with Harrison Ford in Clear and Present Danger. His last five records have all reached the top of the Folk and the Americana charts. 

Don’t worry, Cara Jean Marcy is the Cara Jean Wahlers we’ve all come to know and love – except she’s a newlywed. Not only is Cara a wonderful singer and songwriter, she’s a great storyteller. I hope we get to hear tales of her recent wedding and honeymoon. 

Bill Price wanted to be a songwriter as soon as he heard the Beatles, and Bob Dylan. Bill does his influences proud – his original songs weave great stories and music together. 

Evan Slusher is a university student with songwriter abilities that belie his young age. Hearing Evan is always a treat. 

www.timgrimm.com
www.carajeanmarcy.com
www.billprice.info
www.myspace.com/evanslusher
http://localsonlyindy.com/

Punchlist for the week of March 15

Who doesn't like a good list?

I was thrilled to write this list for Punchnel's of just a handful of the folks that have slept on my sofa.

Broad Ripple Gazette no 9, no 5

 first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Stockwell Road, John Barney & The Passengers, Art Adams
Friday, March 2, 2012
Locals Only
2449 E. 56^th Street
21+, doors 7:00, show 8:00

Get your local here. This is a fun lineup of great local songwriters. All three bands have a country influence – except for John Barney & The Passengers – they’re a county band, through and through.

Will Stockwell leads the band Stockwell Road with a good dose of soul mixed in with country. John Barney & The Passengers are a blend of folk, blues, and country sensibility. Art Adams brings 50 years of rockabilly sensibility and fun.

Wear your dancing shoes to this show, and get there early enough to eat dinner. You’ll need the nourishment for this high-energy show.

www.localsonlyindy.com

           

Girls Rock! Fundraiser with Hero, Jr, Red Light Driver, Neon Love Life
Friday, March 2, 2012
Talbott Street
2145 N. Talbott Street
21+, 8:00, $10 suggested donation

Girls Rock! is a non-profit organization dedicated to building positive self-esteem in girls and encouraging creative expression through music. Through music education programs they provide girls with an opportunity to participate in an environment that fosters leadership, encourages social change, and cultivates a supportive community of female peers and mentors. 

They offer a rock camp each summer for girls learn between the ages of nine and sixteen. The girls receive instruction on guitar, bass, drums or vocals. Each camper becomes part of a band, learns how to write songs, and the thrill of performing in front of a live audience at the camp showcase. Campers also take part in various workshops that relate to body image, self-esteem, and empowerment. 

How awesome this that? I wish I could go! I can go to the fundraiser to help with camp costs. The evening will feature music by Hero Jr., Red Light Driver, and Neon Love Life. There will also be giving away gift certificates and a brand new Silvertone guitar courtesy of Vibes Music. 

http://girlsrockindy.org

Rodeo Ruby Love, End Times Spasm Band, Trip N Balls, Romance of Reject
Friday, March 9, 2012
Hoosier Dome
1627 Prospect Street
7:00, all-ages, $8.

Rodeo Ruby Love has been touring their little rocking hearts out and we’re happy to have them back in town. They’ll be playing their hometown show at the Hoosier Dome. You read that right – the Hoosier Dome is an all-ages venue in Fountain Square run by Stephen Zumbrun. Stephen outgrew the ES Jungle space in the basement of Trinity Church at 61^st and Central. 

The lineup includes Fort Wayne’s End Times Spasm Band. What is a spasm band you ask? In the early part of last century, a spasm band was a group of street performers who played in a hot style on whatever instruments they could wrangle. From what I’ve heard of the End Times Spasm Band, they wrangle those instruments pretty darn well. 

www.facebook.com/rodeorubylove
www.facebook.com/endtimesspasmband
www.indyhoosierdome.com

           

Colin Hay
Sunday, March 9, 2012
Vogue Theatre
6259 N. College Ave
21+, non-smoking, seated, $25 advance, door 7:00, show 8:00

Colin Hay is playing a solo acoustic show. And the Vogue will be nonsmoking. And there will be chairs. What more could you want? Seriously. This will be great. 

You might know Colin Hay from Men At Work. He also has a great solo career as a singer/songwriter and always puts on an amazing show, full of his famous tenor voice and melodic guitar playing. I love being able to see members of bands that I love play solo shows. The Vogue will turn in to an intimate venue for the evening. If you haven’t been to the Vogue for a while, now is the perfect time to check it out. 

www.thevogue.com

Davy, it's always been Davy

If you're of a certain age you had a favorite Monkee. But you probably didn't think of it as strategically as I did.

Click here for the piece I wrote about Davy Jones for Punchnel's.   

Broad Ripple Gazette vol 9, no 3

 first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette

Welcome Super Bowl visitors – we’re happy to have you visiting our fine Village. You’ll find plenty of music, shopping, and restaurants for all tastes. 

Grab an official Broad Ripple Celebration Site program to get the scoop on the concerts and festivities.

And for those of you that will still be around after February 5^th, there are some great shows on the horizon.

Five Year Mission CD release, The Shake Weights, The Innocent Boys
Friday, February 10, 2012
Locals Only
2449 E. 56^th Street
21+, 8:00 pm, $5.00

Five Year Mission fascinates me. The band is more than just a nerdy gimmick: they are five established musicians, who are unabashed Star Trek nerds. They are writing a song for every episode of Star Trek. Yep, you read that right. They are celebrating the release of their second record, which covers the second sixteen episodes in the series.

Their songs are clever and catchy. You don’t have to be a fan of the series to enjoy the music, in fact I’ve even seen an episode of Star Trek (hold the calls and letters, some of my best friends are Trekkies, between not watching television as a kid and not having cable, I’m out of the SciFi loop), but really dig the band.

Speaking of slightly nerdy, The Shake Weights are Mike “Shimmercore” Contreras and Tom Breedlove, friends since their junior-high school days in the 1980s. You will recognize Mike from his other musical projects, Red Light Driver, Pop Lolita, and the United States Army band and you’ve seen Tom on the comedy circuit. They put it all together creating a punk/comedy sound.

The Innocent Boys play a mash-up of punk, bluegrass, and swing for a sound that is all their own.

This show will have something for everyone, and everyone is welcome at Locals Only. The venue offers a nice mix of table and bar area, with room for those of us that like to stand. The food is great, with healthy choices on the menu. Be sure and try Robin’s More Salsa, it is delightful. The beer selection is deep and they have a full bar. What more could you ask for?

http://fiveyearmission.net
http://localsonlyindy.com

Victor Villarreal, Meryll, Heavy Hometown
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Melody Inn
3826 North Illinois Street
21+, $5.00, doors at 8:00, show at 9:00

Legendary guitarist, Victor Villarreal (Joan of Arc) will pop in to the Melody Inn during his ambitious 23 city tour. He is celebrating his first solo proper full-length record, Invisible Cinema. 

Often credited as a pioneer of modern indie rock through his work with Cap'n Jazz, Owls, Ghosts & Vodka, and more recently, Joan of Arc, Victor’s solo venture is full of excellent, but unpretentious record. Elements of classical and Spanish guitar, as well as indie and metal are all present in this diverse batch of songs. I’m sure his concert will feature all of those songs and more. 

The Melody Inn has been around since your grandparent’s era. The Melody Inn is one of the oldest bars in Indianapolis (est. 1935). The vinyl booths are from the old Teepee Restaurant and the oak bar is the original.  It’s a great place to kick back and relax. 

www.melodyindy.com