first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette
Previews:
Malcolm Holcombe + Cliff Snyder
Thursday, September 10th, 2009
Radio Radio
1119 Prospect St
(317) 955-0995
9:00 pm, non-smoking, 21+, $8 advance, $10 at the door
Malcolm Holcombe played the very last show at CATH coffeehouse at 54th and College (the site of Fresh Market) almost exactly five years ago. The show where all of the furniture and fixtures were gone. The show that was lit by a lone lamp and fifty votive candles. The show where you had to bring your own chair and drinks (my refreshment might have come from a Jameson bottle in the back of the truck, if I remember correctly). I’d wanted Malcolm to play for so long that I hated to cancel the show, so I had him play even though the coffeehouse was officially closed.
I was afraid the whole experience scared him away because he hasn’t been back since. I saw Malcolm in a parking lot in Nashville, TN a couple of years later. I was so excited that I babbled the story of CATH and the last show he played in Indianapolis. Malcolm very sensibly got in a car, waved a polite goodbye and his wife pulled away – I’m guessing they drove straight back to North Carolina. I was sure I’d never see him again – with good reason.
I’m happy to report that Malcolm Holcombe is going to play at Radio Radio. Cliff Snyder was able to work his Indianapolis Songwriter Café magic and bring him to town. Malcolm’s last record, “Gamblin' House” was in the top twenty of the Americana Music Association chart for nine straight weeks. He has a new record, “For The Mission Baby,” coming out this fall. I’m looking forward to the show; I’ll be the one standing in the back, trying to look inconspicuous.
Rolling Stone Magazine described Malcolm as "Not quite country, somewhere beyond folk, Holcombe's music is a kind of blues in motion, mapping backwoods corners of the heart."
tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/76254 or Future Shock (Broad Ripple)
venue: www.futureshock.net
www.malcolmholcombe.com
www.indianapolissongwriterscafe.com
danny flanigan
Locals Only
Friday, September 10, 2009
2449 East 56th Street
(317) 255-4013
8:30, non-smoking, 21+
When it rains it seriously pours! danny flanigan was the first person to ever play at CATH coffeehouse. I’m a huge danny fan and when he suggested a show at the coffeehouse I jumped on the idea and the rest is history. danny will be playing a solo set and is scheduled to play first. Catching danny solo is a real treat. Based in Louisville, danny has a well-deserved local following. He’s an amazing songwriter – often they’ll be a song dancing around in my head and I realize it’s a danny tune. He makes everyday things in to celebratory songs. Breakfast in Iowa turns in to a raucous family love song. The story of two sisters starting an organic farm makes in good rocking dance-y tune with danny’s expert crafting.
The rest of the lineup was not available when I was writing this, but it promises to be a great night. My plan is to try to make it to see both danny and Malcolm – my personal CATH history bookends.
www.dannyflanigan.com
www.localsonlyindy.com
Operapalooza
Friday, September 11 (6-11pm)
Saturday, September 12 (11 am – 11 pm)
Rain or shine
Basile Opera Center
4011 N. Pennsylvania (former site of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and Greek Fest) $5 advance, $8 at the door (children under 10 free)
The Indianapolis Opera folks decided to take advantage of the fact that people are used to coming to 40th and Pennsylvania the second weekend in September for Greek Fest to throw a party of their own. The inaugural Operapalooza festival will benefit Indianapolis’ new opera center.
Just in case you were wondering – or worried, the music is not all operatic. The lineup includes Frank Glover and Khilo, Stereo Deluxe, and Forty Percent Steve, along with other classical and community musical groups. Food will be provided by Judge’s BBQ.
Advance tickets and more information are available online at www.operapalooza.org.
Reviews:
Edwin McCain
September 13, 2009
Vogue
I knew that Edwin was coming to the Vogue, but I was so immersed at in the State Fair – it was SPAM contest day after all, that I had not planned on going to the show. Then I heard him play on the Bob & Tom show that morning and remembered how much I loved him. It was a marathon day at the Fair and I raced to the Vogue only to realize that I didn’t have my wallet. I sent Jeannie (who got to drive Edwin to his radio interview that morning) a text and she came out and rescued me.
Edwin cut his trademark long hair – and I hate to admit that I like his music better; maybe I have a long hair bias. He donated his hair to Locks of Love, but admitted that was not the reason for the haircut. He walked in to his young son’s room with his wife, his son called them both ‘mommy’ and Edwin decided it was time for a change. Anyway, he and his band sounded great.
Edwin played a beautiful new song, “Walk With You,” he wrote for a friend’s daughter wedding. It will be available on iTunes September 8th. I predict it will be the new wedding song, knocking Edwin’s other wedding favorite, “I Could Not Ask For More,” aside.
I thoroughly enjoyed the show – Edwin music is a great blend of folk, rock and soul. His voice is amazing and he kept the show moving. I can’t tell you how important that is from the audience perspective and I think a lot of bands drop the ball in this area. Edwin told fun stories and introduced his long-time band members but didn’t stop the music. All and all a good show – amazing songs, Edwin’s great voice and personality, wonderful harmonizing from the band and an attentive crowd. Good stuff.
www.edwin.com
www.thevogue.ws
www.bobandtom.com
Friday, September 11, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Broad Ripple Gazette vol 6, no. 16
Indiana State Fair
August 7 – 23, 2009
August 7 – 23, 2009
Indiana State Fairgrounds
As you long time readers know, I’m a State Fair junkie. Some of my favorite childhood memories revolve around the State Fair. I still can’t believe that I’m lucky enough to live close enough to walk to the Fair. I enter projects in the open-class in the Home and Family Arts Building. I thought you might enjoy some State Fair history and fun facts.
- The first Indiana State Fair in 1852 had an entrance fee of 20 cents and had 30,000 visitors over three days.
- In 1916, a 2,000-foot high-speed roller coaster was erected on the
Fairgrounds.
- In the 1930s, State Fair officials allowed people to bring items such as a
bag of grain in exchange for a ticket.
- Beer was sold at the State Fair from 1933 to 1947.
- Approximately 70,000 feet of ribbon is used in State Fair awards…
enough to circle the 1-mile Track of Champions more than 13 times.
- The West Pavilion (Cattle Barn) is the one of the largest of its kind in
the world. There are approximately 4.5 acres under its roof.
I love a theme and no one does it better than the Indiana State Fair. 2009 is the Year of Tomatoes. There are hundreds of tomatoes planted all over the Fairgrounds. The gazebo is decorated as a giant tomato patch. This is also a good time to ketchup on your tomato knowledge. Did you know that Indiana ranks second in production of tomatoes used for processing in the country? 294,000 tons of processed tomatoes and 255,000 hundredweight (that’s 112 pounds per hundredweight for us non-commodities folks) of fresh tomatoes were harvested last year.
There will be several tomato-y events. In the Ag/Hort building check out the giant structures that will be constructed with cans of food (to be donated to Gleaners food bank). Build day is August 7, winners announced on August 8. Have you grown a tomato over 5 pounds? Enter it on August 8 by 10:00 am in the Ag/Hort building for the largest tomato contest. Red Gold is sponsoring a salsa contest on August 20 and The Jazz Kitchen is sponsoring a Salsa dance contest on August 9.
Please check the Indiana State Fair Web site for specific contest details- www.indianastatefair.com
Remember all of the cool retro candy that Wendy Reed used to stock at Artzy Phartzy? Wendy did the purchasing this year for the Hook’s Soda Shop (State Fair Boulevard – southwest corner of the Fairgrounds). She has stocked the shelves with Whirlipops larger than your head and other nostalgic candy--wax lips, Necco wafers, Valomilk and more.
Entertainment has been a staple in the Grandstand since the State Fair since moved to the current location in 1892. Here are the Grandstand highlights for this year. Check www.indianastatefair.com or call the State Fair box office at 317-927-7901 for ticket prices and details.
Band Day Competition
Friday, August 7
The Band Day competition started in 1947. Last year’s champions, Muncie Southside High School will be defending their title.
Tractor Pulls
August 8 and 9.
August 8 and 9.
For the first time in nearly two decades, tractor pulls are returning to the State Fair. Drivers will compete in six different classes during three different pulls in the Grandstand.
Demi Lovato
August 10
Demi Lovato has come a long way since her days on “Barney & Friends” when she was just 10 years old. She starred in the Disney Channel original movie “Camp
Rock” and now has her own TV series, “Sonny with a Chance.” Her debut album, “Don’t Forget,” was released last September with her Top 10 Radio Disney hit, “La La Land.” Sounds like a good time to take your niece to a concert.
Sandi Patty’s Broadway with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra
August 11
Anderson’s Sandi Patty is the most award-winning female artist in Christian music history. Her show will feature Broadway numbers along with songs from her 30th recording, “Songs for the Journey.” The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra will be supporting Sandi.
MercyMe with Jeremy Camp
August 12
The band, MercyMe, is a regular on the Top 40, Adult Contemporary and Christian chart.
Indiana MusicFest with Jon McLaughlin, The Why Store and The Elms August 13
I’m really looking forward to this free show of Indiana musicians. Jon McLaughlin has recently released his secondalbum, “OK NOW,” to follow-up his highly successful debut album, “Indiana.” The Elms just released a highly anticipated new album. The Why Store, with frontman Chris Shaffer, is still going strong after 15 years and five albums.
Kelly Clarkson
August 14
The winner of the original “American Idol” show made Billboard magazine history for the largest leap to No. 1 by going from No. 97 .
Keith Urban
August 15
Keith Urban has recorded seven No. 1 songs and another seven Top 5 country hits. I wonder if he’ll be traveling with his wife, Nicole Kidman?
Journey and Heart
August 16
The two iconic bands will share the bill. The grandstand is sure to be loaded with folks who were fans the first time around and youngsters just discovering them. Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” is the top selling track in iTunes history.
Jason Mraz with G.Love & Special Sauce and K’Naan
August 18
Known for his fun, folksy style, Jason Mraz always puts on a good show.
Oak Ridge Boys with special guest Larry Gatlin
August 19
The Oak Ridge Boys are returning to their gospel roots after decades of turning out country hits.
Demolition Derby & Fireworks
August 23
An old-fashioned, “drive it ‘til it dies” demolition derby returns to the fairgrounds. The free show will end with fireworks.
The big name acts that play the Grandstand, but there is a giant turkey leg’s worth of free music throughout the Fairgrounds. The Main Street stage next to the Grandstand the features everything from bluegrass to the Blue Monkey Side Show. FYI, your dad will be extra-horrified that the guy who lifts things with his nipples knows your name. The Celebrations Park stage near the 4-H buildings leans to the country and world music side of the spectrum.
I love the old-timey music on the state in the Pioneer Village building. You’ll find lots of familiar folks playing there, including Cara Jean Wahlers and LuAnn Lancton. There are some changes in Pioneer Village this year. The Antique Tractor Barn is
no longer a tractor barn. It was converted into an Opry House, and will be the home of
several new and different activities in addition to the ever popular Farm Toy Show and Old Time Auction. Some of the new activities planned include a tribute to the WLS National Barn Dance, the Traditional Arts Indiana State Fair Fiddle Contest, and a Liar’s Contest.
WLS National Barn Dance
Possum Holler Opera House
Pioneer Village
August 15, 8 pm.
Possum Holler Opera House
Pioneer Village
August 15, 8 pm.
Several of my friends have been working on this great show and I’ve seen some intriguing photos of rehearsal. Remember Red Foley, Lulubelle and Scotty? Do you miss hearing the Hoosier Hotshots or Patsy Montana? The WLS National Barn Dance is your change to rekindle the memories.
Reviews:
Charlie Ballantine
Thursday evenings
Zest
Thursday evenings
Zest
1134 E 54th St
The musical apple did not fall far from the tree. Charlie Ballantine is the very talented son of guitar hero, Scott Ballantine. Charlie will play every Thursday evening until he starts back at the IU School of Music. You need to go see him now, so you can tell your friends in a few years, “I saw Charlie Ballantine play at a little café on the Monon Trail. I knew he was going to make it big.” I’ve enjoyed a couple of Thursday evenings sitting on the patio, enjoying a delicious Zest salad and listening to Charlie play. Good stuff.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Nora goes to the Indiana State Fair.
I'm a State Fair junkie. I have my dream assignment -- NUVO is letting me write about the Indiana State Fair this year. Here are my Top Ten picks: Nora's Top 10 Indiana State Fair.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Broad Ripple Gazette vol 6, no 15
first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette
Do-Re-Mi Steps, Salzburg, Austria
Tuesday, June 23
Most of my family took a wonderful vacation to Germany last month. We took a day trip to Salzburg to see the wonderful town and amazing churches. Salzburg is famous for two musical things – Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for a good bit of the “Sound of Music.” It was pouring rain that day, so everything I saw that day was filtered though my umbrella and a sheet of rain. As I skipped down the famous “Do-Re-Mi” steps, “Singing in the Rain” was running through my head. All musicals tend to run together in my mind. The churches were amazing and I adored the baroque architecture. And I scored one of my favorite souvenirs -- an inexpensive cardboard music box that plays Edelweiss. It only got slightly warped in the rain.
I must admit that I enjoyed the time on the train traveling to and from Munich, Germany. I laughed harder than I did on the whole trip about the Paper Mache that formed on my jacket from a wet shopping bag rubbing against my coat as we ran to the train – and the fact that Mom handed me a hot pad to try to clean it off. I guess you had to be there…
Our (Radius Tours) tour guide was amazing and we were lucky enough to be the only folks on the tour. Mike Richardson’s knowledge of the area, history, art and quirky stuff was incredible and he did a great job of tying it all together for us. The conversation on the train turned to music and it turned out Mike booked and hosted punk rock shows while in school in Minnesota (his home state). His band toured with the Dropkick Murphy’s in 1998. I loved collecting band names and his now has a sticky note on my inside closet door wall of fame – Ten Kegs. Who wouldn’t go to a show with Ten Kegs on the flyer?
I’ll continue the art, music and beer tour of Germany in the next issue.
www.radiustours.com
Bill Mallonee, The Benders
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Radio Radio
Bill Mallonee earned a dedicated fan base with his former band, The Vigilantes of Love. Bill is a great songwriter -- Paste Magazine lists Bill at number 65 as on the 100 Greatest Living Songwriters Poll. So you don’t need me to tell you about Bill – there has been lots of great stuff, written by much more knowledge people than me for you to read.
I want to talk about revamped band, The Benders. The lineup is David England (guitar, vocals), John Byrne (guitar, pedal steel and vocals), Matt Brookshire (bass) and Wade Parish (drums, vocals). I’ve been a fan of the band for quite a while and quite frankly was worried about the lineup changes, but not to worry – they sound great! David, John and Wade harmonize beautifully. The set was full of guitar-laden goodness. Their set included a good chunk of David England’s new album, Little Death. His new record is great! It showcases David’s songwriting and his power-pop sensibilities. Think Elvis Costello. Good stuff.
Soul Bus
Slippery Noodle Inn
Thursday, July 2, 2009
I must wear my blues bias on my sleeve because when I parked in the lot next to the club the parking guy quizzed me to make sure I was in the right place. The nice guy at the door double-checked that I was in the right place. And I know I was one of last people Soul Bus bass player, David Murray expected to walk through the door at midnight.
And guess what? I loved it! That night’s Soul Bus line-up that night was Gordon Bonham, Paul Holdman, David Murray and Jeff Chapin. They played a lot of Rolling Stones and surf-rock. You can catch Soul Bus every Monday night at Daddy Jack’s.
Premium Blend
Chatterbox
Saturday, July 4, 2009
I don’t know if you remember how soggy Independence Day was, but I was one of the folks that stayed at Victory Field until the fireworks were officially called off at 10:00. Through the magic of texting I met up with friends at the Chatterbox. Listening to jazz was the perfect way to melt the craziness and tension of the day away. David Andrichik has created a magical place – always worth popping in.
www.chatterboxjazz.com
Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses
Radio Radio
July 10, 2009
When people ask me about how I started writing about music I credit Alan Hague for letting me write this column and have free-reign to write about what I want to. And Lost Highway records for keeping me on their radar. My first-ever phone interview was to be with Ryan Bingham last year. I was super-freaked out and nervous. The interview was cancelled at the last minute because Ryan got a last minute invitation to appear on Conon O’Brien. I can’t tell you how relieved I was, but I still hang my ability to get to interview national touring musicians on Ryan’s hat rack.
I got to stand on the stage at the Austin City Limits Festival last year when Ryan and his band knocked the socks off of the huge crowd. I felt as proud of him as I do when I see my sweet niece and nephew do something adorable (which is every time I see them).
Ryan has a new CD, Roadhouse Sun. His observational singer/songwriting and his alt-country swagger shine through on this record. Roadhouse Sun is more roots rock than his first record, the twangy Mescalito.
The Radio Radio show was great. Ryan and the band pulled out all of the stops. And I stood on the side of the room, singing along and grinning like a proud aunt.
www.binghammusic.com
Deer Tick
Locals Only
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
First of all, it warmed my heart to see over 100 people out on a Tuesday night seeing live original music. Woo Hoo! It’s easy to see why Deer Tick has the ear of the cool kids. Deer Tick has great songs, excellent musicians and indie band charm. Besides their own music they play ironic covers of Tom Pet. I giggled during the encore set of psychedelic rock at the thought that their parents were probably listening to the same songs in their bedrooms in the 1970s and melting crayons over light bulbs in their closets.
www.deertickmusic.com
www.localsonlyindy.com
Neko Case
Clowes Memorial Hall
Friday, July 17
Thanks to Jeff Grantham for the awesome birthday gift – second row, center seats to see Neko Case. I’m not usually a sit-down sort of concert person. I like to be able to move around and listen from different parts of the room. That said, wow! The seats were great – and the legroom was incredible. I could stick my feet straight out and my cowboy boots did not touch the seat in front of me. I can’t even do that in my kitchen.
I’ve been listening to her new record, Middle Cyclone a ton. I used to say that I have a musical crush on Neko; now I’ve decided that I want to be her. Sadly I think the only things she and I have in common is our prudish dislike of certain words – I’m shivering just thinking of them. Neko and long-time singer/collaborator Kelly Hogan have great stage rapport and really connected with the audience. Neko seemed like she was having a lot more fun than the last time I saw her. The whole band seemed to be in good spirits and full of fried chicken (their pre-show dinner was at Hollyhock Hill).
Neko Case and her band were wonderful – I was particularly intrigued by the pedal steel/guitar/banjo player, Jon Rauhouse. As you know, I adore pedal steel and banjo and Jon brings it to another level. They played a good deal of Middle Cyclone and older Neko songs. Neko switched off between accompanying herself on guitar and singing. I soon figured out how to tell what she was going to do next. Hair up, sing. Hair down, guitar. Okay – that just seemed a little stalkerish. I’m going to declare this as my favorite show so far this year – it will be hard to top.
Do-Re-Mi Steps, Salzburg, Austria
Tuesday, June 23
Most of my family took a wonderful vacation to Germany last month. We took a day trip to Salzburg to see the wonderful town and amazing churches. Salzburg is famous for two musical things – Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for a good bit of the “Sound of Music.” It was pouring rain that day, so everything I saw that day was filtered though my umbrella and a sheet of rain. As I skipped down the famous “Do-Re-Mi” steps, “Singing in the Rain” was running through my head. All musicals tend to run together in my mind. The churches were amazing and I adored the baroque architecture. And I scored one of my favorite souvenirs -- an inexpensive cardboard music box that plays Edelweiss. It only got slightly warped in the rain.
I must admit that I enjoyed the time on the train traveling to and from Munich, Germany. I laughed harder than I did on the whole trip about the Paper Mache that formed on my jacket from a wet shopping bag rubbing against my coat as we ran to the train – and the fact that Mom handed me a hot pad to try to clean it off. I guess you had to be there…
Our (Radius Tours) tour guide was amazing and we were lucky enough to be the only folks on the tour. Mike Richardson’s knowledge of the area, history, art and quirky stuff was incredible and he did a great job of tying it all together for us. The conversation on the train turned to music and it turned out Mike booked and hosted punk rock shows while in school in Minnesota (his home state). His band toured with the Dropkick Murphy’s in 1998. I loved collecting band names and his now has a sticky note on my inside closet door wall of fame – Ten Kegs. Who wouldn’t go to a show with Ten Kegs on the flyer?
I’ll continue the art, music and beer tour of Germany in the next issue.
www.radiustours.com
Bill Mallonee, The Benders
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Radio Radio
Bill Mallonee earned a dedicated fan base with his former band, The Vigilantes of Love. Bill is a great songwriter -- Paste Magazine lists Bill at number 65 as on the 100 Greatest Living Songwriters Poll. So you don’t need me to tell you about Bill – there has been lots of great stuff, written by much more knowledge people than me for you to read.
I want to talk about revamped band, The Benders. The lineup is David England (guitar, vocals), John Byrne (guitar, pedal steel and vocals), Matt Brookshire (bass) and Wade Parish (drums, vocals). I’ve been a fan of the band for quite a while and quite frankly was worried about the lineup changes, but not to worry – they sound great! David, John and Wade harmonize beautifully. The set was full of guitar-laden goodness. Their set included a good chunk of David England’s new album, Little Death. His new record is great! It showcases David’s songwriting and his power-pop sensibilities. Think Elvis Costello. Good stuff.
Soul Bus
Slippery Noodle Inn
Thursday, July 2, 2009
I must wear my blues bias on my sleeve because when I parked in the lot next to the club the parking guy quizzed me to make sure I was in the right place. The nice guy at the door double-checked that I was in the right place. And I know I was one of last people Soul Bus bass player, David Murray expected to walk through the door at midnight.
And guess what? I loved it! That night’s Soul Bus line-up that night was Gordon Bonham, Paul Holdman, David Murray and Jeff Chapin. They played a lot of Rolling Stones and surf-rock. You can catch Soul Bus every Monday night at Daddy Jack’s.
Premium Blend
Chatterbox
Saturday, July 4, 2009
I don’t know if you remember how soggy Independence Day was, but I was one of the folks that stayed at Victory Field until the fireworks were officially called off at 10:00. Through the magic of texting I met up with friends at the Chatterbox. Listening to jazz was the perfect way to melt the craziness and tension of the day away. David Andrichik has created a magical place – always worth popping in.
www.chatterboxjazz.com
Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses
Radio Radio
July 10, 2009
When people ask me about how I started writing about music I credit Alan Hague for letting me write this column and have free-reign to write about what I want to. And Lost Highway records for keeping me on their radar. My first-ever phone interview was to be with Ryan Bingham last year. I was super-freaked out and nervous. The interview was cancelled at the last minute because Ryan got a last minute invitation to appear on Conon O’Brien. I can’t tell you how relieved I was, but I still hang my ability to get to interview national touring musicians on Ryan’s hat rack.
I got to stand on the stage at the Austin City Limits Festival last year when Ryan and his band knocked the socks off of the huge crowd. I felt as proud of him as I do when I see my sweet niece and nephew do something adorable (which is every time I see them).
Ryan has a new CD, Roadhouse Sun. His observational singer/songwriting and his alt-country swagger shine through on this record. Roadhouse Sun is more roots rock than his first record, the twangy Mescalito.
The Radio Radio show was great. Ryan and the band pulled out all of the stops. And I stood on the side of the room, singing along and grinning like a proud aunt.
www.binghammusic.com
Deer Tick
Locals Only
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
First of all, it warmed my heart to see over 100 people out on a Tuesday night seeing live original music. Woo Hoo! It’s easy to see why Deer Tick has the ear of the cool kids. Deer Tick has great songs, excellent musicians and indie band charm. Besides their own music they play ironic covers of Tom Pet. I giggled during the encore set of psychedelic rock at the thought that their parents were probably listening to the same songs in their bedrooms in the 1970s and melting crayons over light bulbs in their closets.
www.deertickmusic.com
www.localsonlyindy.com
Neko Case
Clowes Memorial Hall
Friday, July 17
Thanks to Jeff Grantham for the awesome birthday gift – second row, center seats to see Neko Case. I’m not usually a sit-down sort of concert person. I like to be able to move around and listen from different parts of the room. That said, wow! The seats were great – and the legroom was incredible. I could stick my feet straight out and my cowboy boots did not touch the seat in front of me. I can’t even do that in my kitchen.
I’ve been listening to her new record, Middle Cyclone a ton. I used to say that I have a musical crush on Neko; now I’ve decided that I want to be her. Sadly I think the only things she and I have in common is our prudish dislike of certain words – I’m shivering just thinking of them. Neko and long-time singer/collaborator Kelly Hogan have great stage rapport and really connected with the audience. Neko seemed like she was having a lot more fun than the last time I saw her. The whole band seemed to be in good spirits and full of fried chicken (their pre-show dinner was at Hollyhock Hill).
Neko Case and her band were wonderful – I was particularly intrigued by the pedal steel/guitar/banjo player, Jon Rauhouse. As you know, I adore pedal steel and banjo and Jon brings it to another level. They played a good deal of Middle Cyclone and older Neko songs. Neko switched off between accompanying herself on guitar and singing. I soon figured out how to tell what she was going to do next. Hair up, sing. Hair down, guitar. Okay – that just seemed a little stalkerish. I’m going to declare this as my favorite show so far this year – it will be hard to top.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Broad Ripple Gazette vol 6, no 14
first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette
Previews:
Deer Tick, Dawes, Kentucky Nightmare
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Locals Only
2449 E. 56th Street
317-255-4013
9:00, 21+
When I saw Dawes play at Locals Only a few months ago I was blown away by two things. One, they were amazing good. Two, there was nobody there. The San Fernando Valley band plays soulful pop. Brothers Taylor (guitar) and Griffith Goldsmith (drums) harmonizing beautifully with Wylie Gelber's bass guitar. They played as a trio the last time they were in town. I can’t wait to hear what the addition of keyboards does to the mix. I’ve really been enjoying their self titled CD. They’ve got it all – great songs, tight sound, good looks and boyish charm.
www.dawestheband.com
www.localsonlyindy.com
Steve Smith and Vital Information
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Jazz Kitchen
5377 N. College Ave, 317-253-4900
7:00/9:00, $20. 21+, non-smoking
The all-star Soul/Jazz/Funk/Fusion super-group is celebrating their 25th year and the celebrating release of their new album, Vitalization. I’m always fascinated by groups that have drummers as bandleaders. Not because of any drummer stereotypes, but because I think that the whole process of being a drummer would consume every ounce of energy that I had. Just the thought of keeping time makes me sweat.
Steve is no ordinary drummer. He was named Modern Drummer’s "#1 All Around Drummer" five years in a row and was voted one of the "Top 25 Drummers of All Time" in a recent reader’s poll and was named to the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 2002. I hope all of these awards mean that he does not need to carry and set up his own kit anymore.
www.vitalinformation.com
www.thejazzkitchen.com
A concert to celebrate the life of Mark Garback
Friday, July 17, 2009
Radio Radio
1119 E. Prospect Street (Fountain Square)
9 pm, $5 donation, 21+, non-smoking
I first met Mark Garback as a volunteer for the Tonic Ball. He had the formidable job of helping hustle 15 bands on stage for 10 minute changeovers, keep the path to the stage and the equipment clear and the path to the exit open at Radio Radio. And he managed to pull all of that off with good-humor, grace and charm.
Mark was an ABATE motorcycle safety instructor and had a part-time gig as a motorcycle funeral escort. He was hit by a car while leading a funeral procession in May and died a few days later of his injuries. He would have turned 48 on July 21. His friends are throwing a memorial concert/birthday party/fundraiser (for SCI Hope fund – helping people with spinal cord injuries), and they encourage everyone to come.
The emcee for the evening will be Mark's good friend, Steve "Papaw" Pyatte and there is a stellar lineup of bands playing - Shelby Kelley, Big Betty and The Common. I’ll see you there – right after the Neko Case show, of course.
www.papawinc.com
www.scihope.org
www.myspace.com/shelbykelleymusic
www.myspace.com/commonrock
Josh Hoge
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Birdy’s Bar and Grill
2131 E. 71st St.
31- 254-8971
8:30, $8, 21+
Nashville’s Josh Hoge is one of the guys that I’ve been meaning to see for a long time. I keep reading great stuff about him and I like what I’ve heard of his music. I’ll let Ryan Tedder of One Republic tell you about him. "Josh Hoge is one of the most talented vocalists I have ever worked with. In a world filled with copycats, he doesn't sound like anybody but himself. I've known him for almost a decade and have watched him go from talented singer to talented singer, writer and performer; he is a recording 'artist' in every sense of the word."
www.birdyslive.com
www.joshhoge.com
Reviews:
The good news: I’m back in the groove of seeing shows. The bad news: I’m back in the groove of seeing shows, coupled with jet lag, Second Helpings fiscal end of year and the Independence Day holiday I’m shockingly far behind on writing up the reviews. So you’ll have to wait until the next issue to hear about the punk-rock Salzburg tour guide and my turn on the ‘do ri me’ steps and running in to someone I know while naked at the baths in Baden Baden – and getting ‘shushed for talking about our love of Yat’s. In the mean time…
Blythe Hager – Dry Rot
Healing Arts Indy
805 S. Meridian Street (across from Shapiro’s Deli)
317-955-7811
I first met Blythe at CATH Inc, back in the days when it was in the storefront space across from Hit City Recording. We passed the manager baton and she went off to bigger and better things. I knew that she wildly talented and creative. I love when I get a piece of mail from her and she always brings delightful things to parties. I still have a bouquet of doll’s heads from a Saint Valentine’s Day party years ago.
I am surrounded by such talented folks, that I tend to forget how amazing they are. I was smacked in the eyes with it when I walked in to the Healing Arts Indy gallery. Blythe came up with the concept of the show while contemplating the house she’s lived in for years and the repairs it needed. As she says, “Dry rot is defined, in part, as decay from within caused especially by resistance to new forces.” Her series looks at that through the eyes of contemplating the American dream of home ownership.
The official word on Blythe: Hager is a fine artist and scenic painter from Indianapolis and Herron School of Art graduate. For over 10 years, Hager’s work as a scenic and decorative painter has taken her throughout the U.S. and even to Japan. She has worked on a wide variety of murals, backdrops, stage and television sets, exhibits, and props. As a fine artist, Hager has exhibited her paintings in local galleries. Working in acrylic and oil, she paints narratives of mundane life suspended in mysterious moments.
The unofficial word: She’s a kick-ass artist and all-around cool chick.
www.healingartsindy.com
Previews:
Deer Tick, Dawes, Kentucky Nightmare
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Locals Only
2449 E. 56th Street
317-255-4013
9:00, 21+
When I saw Dawes play at Locals Only a few months ago I was blown away by two things. One, they were amazing good. Two, there was nobody there. The San Fernando Valley band plays soulful pop. Brothers Taylor (guitar) and Griffith Goldsmith (drums) harmonizing beautifully with Wylie Gelber's bass guitar. They played as a trio the last time they were in town. I can’t wait to hear what the addition of keyboards does to the mix. I’ve really been enjoying their self titled CD. They’ve got it all – great songs, tight sound, good looks and boyish charm.
www.dawestheband.com
www.localsonlyindy.com
Steve Smith and Vital Information
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Jazz Kitchen
5377 N. College Ave, 317-253-4900
7:00/9:00, $20. 21+, non-smoking
The all-star Soul/Jazz/Funk/Fusion super-group is celebrating their 25th year and the celebrating release of their new album, Vitalization. I’m always fascinated by groups that have drummers as bandleaders. Not because of any drummer stereotypes, but because I think that the whole process of being a drummer would consume every ounce of energy that I had. Just the thought of keeping time makes me sweat.
Steve is no ordinary drummer. He was named Modern Drummer’s "#1 All Around Drummer" five years in a row and was voted one of the "Top 25 Drummers of All Time" in a recent reader’s poll and was named to the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 2002. I hope all of these awards mean that he does not need to carry and set up his own kit anymore.
www.vitalinformation.com
www.thejazzkitchen.com
A concert to celebrate the life of Mark Garback
Friday, July 17, 2009
Radio Radio
1119 E. Prospect Street (Fountain Square)
9 pm, $5 donation, 21+, non-smoking
I first met Mark Garback as a volunteer for the Tonic Ball. He had the formidable job of helping hustle 15 bands on stage for 10 minute changeovers, keep the path to the stage and the equipment clear and the path to the exit open at Radio Radio. And he managed to pull all of that off with good-humor, grace and charm.
Mark was an ABATE motorcycle safety instructor and had a part-time gig as a motorcycle funeral escort. He was hit by a car while leading a funeral procession in May and died a few days later of his injuries. He would have turned 48 on July 21. His friends are throwing a memorial concert/birthday party/fundraiser (for SCI Hope fund – helping people with spinal cord injuries), and they encourage everyone to come.
The emcee for the evening will be Mark's good friend, Steve "Papaw" Pyatte and there is a stellar lineup of bands playing - Shelby Kelley, Big Betty and The Common. I’ll see you there – right after the Neko Case show, of course.
www.papawinc.com
www.scihope.org
www.myspace.com/shelbykelleymusic
www.myspace.com/commonrock
Josh Hoge
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Birdy’s Bar and Grill
2131 E. 71st St.
31- 254-8971
8:30, $8, 21+
Nashville’s Josh Hoge is one of the guys that I’ve been meaning to see for a long time. I keep reading great stuff about him and I like what I’ve heard of his music. I’ll let Ryan Tedder of One Republic tell you about him. "Josh Hoge is one of the most talented vocalists I have ever worked with. In a world filled with copycats, he doesn't sound like anybody but himself. I've known him for almost a decade and have watched him go from talented singer to talented singer, writer and performer; he is a recording 'artist' in every sense of the word."
www.birdyslive.com
www.joshhoge.com
Reviews:
The good news: I’m back in the groove of seeing shows. The bad news: I’m back in the groove of seeing shows, coupled with jet lag, Second Helpings fiscal end of year and the Independence Day holiday I’m shockingly far behind on writing up the reviews. So you’ll have to wait until the next issue to hear about the punk-rock Salzburg tour guide and my turn on the ‘do ri me’ steps and running in to someone I know while naked at the baths in Baden Baden – and getting ‘shushed for talking about our love of Yat’s. In the mean time…
Blythe Hager – Dry Rot
Healing Arts Indy
805 S. Meridian Street (across from Shapiro’s Deli)
317-955-7811
I first met Blythe at CATH Inc, back in the days when it was in the storefront space across from Hit City Recording. We passed the manager baton and she went off to bigger and better things. I knew that she wildly talented and creative. I love when I get a piece of mail from her and she always brings delightful things to parties. I still have a bouquet of doll’s heads from a Saint Valentine’s Day party years ago.
I am surrounded by such talented folks, that I tend to forget how amazing they are. I was smacked in the eyes with it when I walked in to the Healing Arts Indy gallery. Blythe came up with the concept of the show while contemplating the house she’s lived in for years and the repairs it needed. As she says, “Dry rot is defined, in part, as decay from within caused especially by resistance to new forces.” Her series looks at that through the eyes of contemplating the American dream of home ownership.
The official word on Blythe: Hager is a fine artist and scenic painter from Indianapolis and Herron School of Art graduate. For over 10 years, Hager’s work as a scenic and decorative painter has taken her throughout the U.S. and even to Japan. She has worked on a wide variety of murals, backdrops, stage and television sets, exhibits, and props. As a fine artist, Hager has exhibited her paintings in local galleries. Working in acrylic and oil, she paints narratives of mundane life suspended in mysterious moments.
The unofficial word: She’s a kick-ass artist and all-around cool chick.
www.healingartsindy.com
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Ryan Bingham at Radio Radio, July 10, 2009
Click here and scroll down to 'Friday roots' for the NUVO Soundcheck preview that I wrote for the Ryan Bingham show. I'm a big fan of Ryan and have been listening to his new record, Roadhouse Sun pretty much nonstop for the last month. Great stuff.
While you're reading the previews, scroll down to Saturday and read Scott Shoger's 'Butt Rock' blurb about the Kid Rock/Lynard Skynyrd show. The best two sentances I've read in a long time.
While you're reading the previews, scroll down to Saturday and read Scott Shoger's 'Butt Rock' blurb about the Kid Rock/Lynard Skynyrd show. The best two sentances I've read in a long time.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Broad Ripple Gazette vol 6, no 12
first published in the Broad Ripple Gazette.
Previews:
Teen Arts and Music Festival
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Broad Ripple Park
1550 Broad Ripple Avenue
11 AM – 7 PM, all-ages, free
This is the fifth year for the Teen Arts and Music Festival and it keeps getting bigger and better. There will be twelve bands on the main stage and an open stage for teen singer-songwriters, poets and dancers to perform. Dozens of teen artists will have their work on display and for sale.
The lineup is stellar – including two bands I’ve heard before and love – Sanuk and Razorback Llama and the teenagers at heart band, Tim Brickley and The Bleeding Hearts.
11:00 Cities of Noise
11:30 The Grimes Girls
noon Rebel Harriet
12:40 Aquatones
1:20 Reload
2:00 Star Sixty-Seven
3:00 Razorback Llama
3:40 Tim Brickley and The Bleeding Hearts
4:20 Consensus
5:05 The Are You Ready’s
5:50 Sanuk
6:35 Rocketbot
Bring a lawn chair, blankets and sunscreen. Food will be available. It promises to be a fun day!
www.myspace.com/teenartsandmusicfestival
Derelicks Yard Sale
Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27, 2009
52nd Street and Clarendon Road (Rocky Ripple)
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
I know this is not the classified section, but this yard sale is benefiting two favorite things – making records and hunger relief. The talented and quirky band, The Derelicks are hosting a rummage sale to help finance the recording of their next record, Flat Can Cover Sessions, and to raise some cash for Gleaners Food Bank. I’m sure it will be chock-full of treasures!
www.thederelicks.com
Cameron McGill, David Townsend James, the Medders
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Indy Hostel, outdoor stage
4903 Winthrop Ave
doors 7:00, music 7:30, $7. all-ages
The first time I heard Chicago’s, Cameron McGill I was charmed by his alt-country sound sincerity. He’s charmed a lot of other folks in the last four years, performing with his band, What Army? (isn’t that the best band name, ever?). He’s doing a solo tour to promote his new record, Warm Songs for Cold Shoulders.
David Townsend James hails from Indianapolis and I enjoyed what I heard on his MySpace page, Americana – folk.
Here are Hostel John Newton’s words about The Medders: I saw these guys play a house show down in Nashville. Don't be fooled by the country-western sound (which they do quite well) - Cheyenne (lead singer) has one of the best voices for Chuck Berry around. Bring your dancing shoes!
I love their story – three sons of a Nashville Country song writer, finding their own sound and regrouping in Nashville after college. Read and hear more on their MySpace page.
I would plan my weekend around this show, if I were you. I’ll be in Germany with my family, hopefully listening to Volksmusik, but most likely watching a band that features a klezmer (not that there is anything wrong with that!).
www.indyhostel.us
www.cameronmcgill.com
http://www.myspace.com/davidtownsendjames
http://www.myspace.com/themedders
Reviews:
Ice Cube Head Gallery Show
Friday, June 5, 2009
No one is more surprised by my life than I am. Seriously. And I can trace all of the cool stuff I get to do back to my job at Some Guys Pizza. I worked at Some Guys when I first moved back to Indianapolis in 1996-ish. I was my first independent restaurant gig and I know I drove them crazy with my corporate restaurant mentality. I soon got over that. I met and worked with so many cool people – including owner/operators Nancy Carey and Keith Carey. I met Second Helpings co-founder, Kristen Cordoza through the Carey’s and many amazing friends.
One of the folks that really shaped my Indianapolis experience was co-worker Jeff Ayers. Jeff was my not-so-evil landlord for almost a year. I can honestly say that I laughed every single day that I lived in that house; Jeff is one of the funniest and most creative guys I know.
All of the art in the show was a riffed from a disconcerting photograph of Jeff taken last winter. Here is Jeff’s artist statement:
“ In the Beginning: The idea behind Ice Cube Head the picture and Icecubehead.com was completely unplanned and serendipitous. It began like this: I have two large dogs, Louis and Grrrl. They are mostly outdoor dogs and their water dish is a five-gallon plastic bucket. In the winter, when one bucket starts to freeze, I switch it out with a fresh one. The water in the bucket freezes from the top down and along the sides. Given a certain amount of partial freezing, followed up by several hours indoors thawing, you can get a perfectly formed hollow ice cylinder out of the bucket, open on one end, like a giant glass or a vase. Just the right size to fit snuggly over a man’s head. Shortly after making this discovery, I was playing a game of winter bocce with an artist friend, Jim Kelly. I asked him to take a picture of me wearing the ice helmet. To make the image more humorous, especially given the below-freezing temperature and my pathetic physique, I stripped to the waist. The result is a slightly disturbing image of a half-naked grown man whose head appears to be frozen inside a giant ice cube.
“There is a group of bocce players who regularly congregate at my house, several of whom are artists of one type or another. We decided that we would all draw, paint, whatever medium, a version of the photo, then gather them all together and have a little party. The initial results, particularly the work of Jim Kelly and Sean Gelarden, were so impressive and fun that we decided to invite others to participate. The group expanded beyond our bocce circle to include a wide spectrum of contributors, from trained art professionals to people who hadn’t drawn a picture since early school days. Jim, Sean and I then decided we would print some of the best pieces and offer them for sale at a gala party at my house.”
The art work was amazing. The Ice Cube Head interpretations ranged from traditional mediums to a night light and an unsettling tableau of monkey with a glass on his head. Go to the Web site to see the art work (do yourself a favor and type in the address, Googling “Ice Cube Head” brings up Web sites that make a Catholic girl blush).
www.icecubehead.com
Previews:
Teen Arts and Music Festival
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Broad Ripple Park
1550 Broad Ripple Avenue
11 AM – 7 PM, all-ages, free
This is the fifth year for the Teen Arts and Music Festival and it keeps getting bigger and better. There will be twelve bands on the main stage and an open stage for teen singer-songwriters, poets and dancers to perform. Dozens of teen artists will have their work on display and for sale.
The lineup is stellar – including two bands I’ve heard before and love – Sanuk and Razorback Llama and the teenagers at heart band, Tim Brickley and The Bleeding Hearts.
11:00 Cities of Noise
11:30 The Grimes Girls
noon Rebel Harriet
12:40 Aquatones
1:20 Reload
2:00 Star Sixty-Seven
3:00 Razorback Llama
3:40 Tim Brickley and The Bleeding Hearts
4:20 Consensus
5:05 The Are You Ready’s
5:50 Sanuk
6:35 Rocketbot
Bring a lawn chair, blankets and sunscreen. Food will be available. It promises to be a fun day!
www.myspace.com/teenartsandmusicfestival
Derelicks Yard Sale
Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27, 2009
52nd Street and Clarendon Road (Rocky Ripple)
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
I know this is not the classified section, but this yard sale is benefiting two favorite things – making records and hunger relief. The talented and quirky band, The Derelicks are hosting a rummage sale to help finance the recording of their next record, Flat Can Cover Sessions, and to raise some cash for Gleaners Food Bank. I’m sure it will be chock-full of treasures!
www.thederelicks.com
Cameron McGill, David Townsend James, the Medders
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Indy Hostel, outdoor stage
4903 Winthrop Ave
doors 7:00, music 7:30, $7. all-ages
The first time I heard Chicago’s, Cameron McGill I was charmed by his alt-country sound sincerity. He’s charmed a lot of other folks in the last four years, performing with his band, What Army? (isn’t that the best band name, ever?). He’s doing a solo tour to promote his new record, Warm Songs for Cold Shoulders.
David Townsend James hails from Indianapolis and I enjoyed what I heard on his MySpace page, Americana – folk.
Here are Hostel John Newton’s words about The Medders: I saw these guys play a house show down in Nashville. Don't be fooled by the country-western sound (which they do quite well) - Cheyenne (lead singer) has one of the best voices for Chuck Berry around. Bring your dancing shoes!
I love their story – three sons of a Nashville Country song writer, finding their own sound and regrouping in Nashville after college. Read and hear more on their MySpace page.
I would plan my weekend around this show, if I were you. I’ll be in Germany with my family, hopefully listening to Volksmusik, but most likely watching a band that features a klezmer (not that there is anything wrong with that!).
www.indyhostel.us
www.cameronmcgill.com
http://www.myspace.com/davidtownsendjames
http://www.myspace.com/themedders
Reviews:
Ice Cube Head Gallery Show
Friday, June 5, 2009
No one is more surprised by my life than I am. Seriously. And I can trace all of the cool stuff I get to do back to my job at Some Guys Pizza. I worked at Some Guys when I first moved back to Indianapolis in 1996-ish. I was my first independent restaurant gig and I know I drove them crazy with my corporate restaurant mentality. I soon got over that. I met and worked with so many cool people – including owner/operators Nancy Carey and Keith Carey. I met Second Helpings co-founder, Kristen Cordoza through the Carey’s and many amazing friends.
One of the folks that really shaped my Indianapolis experience was co-worker Jeff Ayers. Jeff was my not-so-evil landlord for almost a year. I can honestly say that I laughed every single day that I lived in that house; Jeff is one of the funniest and most creative guys I know.
All of the art in the show was a riffed from a disconcerting photograph of Jeff taken last winter. Here is Jeff’s artist statement:
“ In the Beginning: The idea behind Ice Cube Head the picture and Icecubehead.com was completely unplanned and serendipitous. It began like this: I have two large dogs, Louis and Grrrl. They are mostly outdoor dogs and their water dish is a five-gallon plastic bucket. In the winter, when one bucket starts to freeze, I switch it out with a fresh one. The water in the bucket freezes from the top down and along the sides. Given a certain amount of partial freezing, followed up by several hours indoors thawing, you can get a perfectly formed hollow ice cylinder out of the bucket, open on one end, like a giant glass or a vase. Just the right size to fit snuggly over a man’s head. Shortly after making this discovery, I was playing a game of winter bocce with an artist friend, Jim Kelly. I asked him to take a picture of me wearing the ice helmet. To make the image more humorous, especially given the below-freezing temperature and my pathetic physique, I stripped to the waist. The result is a slightly disturbing image of a half-naked grown man whose head appears to be frozen inside a giant ice cube.
“There is a group of bocce players who regularly congregate at my house, several of whom are artists of one type or another. We decided that we would all draw, paint, whatever medium, a version of the photo, then gather them all together and have a little party. The initial results, particularly the work of Jim Kelly and Sean Gelarden, were so impressive and fun that we decided to invite others to participate. The group expanded beyond our bocce circle to include a wide spectrum of contributors, from trained art professionals to people who hadn’t drawn a picture since early school days. Jim, Sean and I then decided we would print some of the best pieces and offer them for sale at a gala party at my house.”
The art work was amazing. The Ice Cube Head interpretations ranged from traditional mediums to a night light and an unsettling tableau of monkey with a glass on his head. Go to the Web site to see the art work (do yourself a favor and type in the address, Googling “Ice Cube Head” brings up Web sites that make a Catholic girl blush).
www.icecubehead.com
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