THE MIDWESTERN CHARM’S FULL-LENGTH ALBUM REVIEW

The first time that I saw The Midwestern Charm play was last summer on an impromptu road trip to Green Bay with my mom to see two of our favorite Milwaukee bands. Despite only hearing a couple songs at the tail end of The Midwestern Charm’s set, I was impressed & made it a point to look up them up a couple months later and was pleasantly surprised to find out my friend Jonathan Ferrer was producing their new album at Mystery Room Studios. Already familiar with Jon’s production level via his band Ikarus Down, I was curious to see his collaboration with Charm’s more country-tinged brand of rock.

The final product was released on April 20th, a three year long journey for the band, filled with more than the usual slew of hiccups & roadblocks. The album seems like a journey in itself, a collection about love & loss, from one end of the emotional spectrum to the other, from romantic declarations to the flirty & upbeat to bitter breakup songs. When I spoke with lead vocalist & guitarist Connor S. La Mue, he said it was strange to put out an album of songs that he wrote three years ago, as the lyrics represent how he felt then not now. To me this actually makes the music more interesting, a sneak peek into someone’s mind at a very different point in their life, akin to opening a time capsule of a not so distant past that seems like ages ago to those who experienced it.

The Midwestern Charm is made up of Connor S. La Mue on vocals and guitar, lead guitarist Ryan McCrary, Ryan Gracyalny on drums and bassist Steve Sampson. The band was formed in 2009 in Oshkosh where all of the members except for Gracyalny live. Their name is fitting to the honest, down home nature of their sound, an mish-mash of alternative, roots rock and folk. Despite the recent album release, the band is looking ahead to the future and plans to follow up with an EP of newer songs later this year, obviously knowing that the way to stay successful is to stay progressive. Their next show is tomorrow night at Linnemann’s Riverwest Inn with Ikarus Down and Tim Schweiger & TMM. Here’s my take on some of my favorites off their thoroughly enjoyable debut full-length album.

Tracks two and three (Movin’ Out and Never One For Dancing respectively) really feel like one long song, the ending and opening notes blending seamlessly together. Movin’ Out is upbeat, punctuated with classic guitar riffs and a perfectly placed vocal harmony while the drums and rhythm acoustic guitar maintain a folk vibe that just skirts the border of country. The vocals are so energetic that it’s easy to miss out on some of the snarkier lyrics like “You went out of your way, to rain on my parade.” Almost three minutes in, the last guitar riff of the song sounds and without skipping a beat, the next track starts.

Smoothly transitioning into a slightly slower song with a more bitter tone, Never One For Dancing clearly paints the picture of a past love that ended badly, signified by darker lyrics “You are not sorry, just cut me down again. And there’s this hole in my chest that’s getting so large…and so fucking hard…to fill.” La Mue’s delivery of these powerful words perfectly conveys the emotion felt behind them, with his band backing him up, their chords and harmonies also portray the sadness here. The song ends on a hopeful note though, with the ending lyrics, “That’s what I needed….set me free.” I connected easily with the song (as I imagine others will) as I know all too well that when someone really hurts you, it’s almost easier to move on, as the betrayal is blatant.

When We Were Young is a slower, nostalgic ballad that reminisces on good times of the past, sprinkled with the euphonious sounds of a pedal steel (played by Matt Keon on the album) in the background, one of the most beautiful instruments to listen to, used prominently in folk music. The guitar notes are deliberately picked and delicate whistling can be heard, both accentuating the wistful vocals and stripped down tone of the song.

Track nine is Keep Me Warm and gets closer to pop-country than the rest of the album to my untrained ears. Twanging guitars and flirtatious lyrics such as, “Maybe I should go to New York. Where I can spend my time looking for a fine, little gal to spend my nights with.” emphasize the cheerful mood, keeping it fun and lighthearted. Featuring two guests, Ian Olvera on organ and Matt Keon on pedal steel again, their contribution never takes away from the band members, it only highlights them.

Better Days once more uses whistling in the background to solidify that rural, folky vibe present in the entire album, as well as several vocal harmonies that expand the scale and scope of the song. The rhythms of the song are so bluegrassy and buoyant that you can’t help but whistle along as you sway from side to side. This song showcases yet again The Midwestern Charm’s ability to mix sugary melodies and vocals with sharper, fiery lyrics, with each balancing the other out, sweet and sour. Clever words like “So when you’re done, impressing everyone…I hope you realize your goddamn mistakes. And when you preach, what you believe, don’t you ever think of me, no.” not only proves the band’s talent at songwriting but at conveying honest, true feelings.

All in all, the entire album is well put together, emotionally driven and never gets too country or too pop, always maintaining a folk-rock vein and laid back attitude that is so very indicative of the welcoming personality of the Midwest. Connor La Mue told me when he gave me the CD that if he could say the album is one thing, it’s definitely heartfelt and I can’t help but agree. Produced by the band & Jonathan Ferrer, mixed by Landon Arkens of Blast House Studios & mastered by the ever talented Justin Perkins of Mystery Room, this debut release has its own unique sound and I personally can’t wait to hear more from this talented group of musicians. Grab a copy at any of their live shows or download it on ITunes, Amazon and CDBaby, trust me, you won’t be disappointed. Check out their website or Facebook page for updates and don’t forget to swing by Linnemann’s tomorrow to hear them for yourself!

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JAM FOR JAM MUSIC FESTIVAL HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

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Summer is approaching us again! In my personal opinion there is no better way to start it off than to go visit Jam 4 Jam this weekend at the Concord House in Sullivan, Wi. Before you think this is just some small music festival, there is more behind this event than meets the eye. Jam for Jamaica is a coalition of like-minded groups and individuals who use their creative and financial resources to improve the living conditions in communities of need in inner-island Jamaica. Musicians like Craig Baumann and Ryan Ogburn (of Honest Monday) make a yearly trip down to Jamaica and work on homes in need of repair mostly due to poverty and environmental damages. To find about more about the work that has been done over the past years, visit their website.

Another unique factor about Jam 4 Jam is the versatility of the line up this year. Over three days (May 17th-19th) a variety of bands from I’m Not A Pilot to Cosmic Railroad will be performing. Most of this year’s acts are local to Milwaukee so it’s a sure guarantee to experience the familiar with a taste of something new.

Line Up:

Thursday, May 17th
7pm Boney Fingers
8:15pm I’m Not A Pilot
9:30pm Venice Gas House Trolley
10:30pm Mike Brumm
11pm Circle of Heat
12am XL Big feat. The NightKrawlers
12:30am Ifdakar

Friday, May 18th
noon Jam Funk AllStars
2pm Recalcitrant
3:15pm The New Fuse
4:30pm Undercover Organism
6pm People Brothers Band
7pm Soap
8pm Metal Minstrel
8:30pm We Are Your Father
9:15pm Sean Shiel
9:45pm De La Buena
11pm Colin O’Brien
11:30pm The Fatty Acids
12:45pm Smokin’ Bandits

Saturday, May 19th
9am Chicken Wire Empire
10:15am Danny Miller Band
12pm Sonny Stubble
1:20pm Ethan Keller Group
3pm Honest Monday
4:20pm Muddy Udders
5:45pm Moloko Shivers
7pm Alpha Transit
8:15pm Ethan Keller (solo)
8:45pm Roster McCabe
10pm Mesdames Dulcet
10:30pm Antioquia
11:45pm Melonheads
12:15am Cosmic Railroad

This year, look for Local Playlist’s Anne, Jordan and myself! We will be camped out with a tent and conducting band interviews as well as taking pictures of all the shows. If you haven’t purchased a ticket yet or are looking to do so, they are still on sale at the gate when you drive in. They are $65 for the full weekend or $15 Thursday, $25 Friday, $35 Saturday and $5 Sunday which is only the parking charge. In addition to the music and wilderness fun that comes with out an outdoor festival, there will also be local vendors set up between the outside courtyard/ camping area and indoors.

This year is going to be a blast and I’m personally looking forward to seeing all of your faces! (and maybe your dance moves)

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TWEED FUNK ALBUM RELEASE AT SHANK HALL ON 5/11/2012

Tweed Funk Serenades with “Love Is”

On May 11th, Wisconsin’s R&B/Soul artist of the year, Tweed Funk, released its sophomore album, “Love Is”. The release concert was held at Shank Hall, on the lower East Side.

Older folks sat at tables, docile and waiting for the show to start. I sat at the back bar, overlooking the dimly lit floor and stage. Beside me was a graying man, wearing a blue polo and corduroys who grinned and spoke with a beer soaked breath. When he wasn’t trying to take the bartender home, he’d pat me on the back or shake my hand. He was telling me that I’ve got to get down to Kenosha and check out this car dealership.

I thought I was spending a night with my friends’ parents. I was sure it was going to get a little awkward. But what’s better than being part of something weird? Being part of something funky.

I was becoming a citizen of the Tweed Funk Nation.

To see as many highly talented people in one band is rare. You know you’re witnessing something masterful when its delivery is made to seem so effortless. Which explains why Tweed Funk has only been a band for two years and has gained international radio play, booked renowned venues like the House of Blues, won a WAMI and released a second album like “Love Is”.

Tweed Funk’s “Love Is” is a luxurious ten-track ride. It ignites on its first track, “Fine Wine,” moving with swing rhythms, JD Optekar’s rocking guitar riffs and solos, horn and sax accompaniment, and keys.

Its subsequent tracks shift into the slower tempos of the blues. These tracks showcase Smokey’s vocals. Along with the band’s rhythm, Smokey’s voice is both powerful and smooth. It’s hard for the listener to follow these sounds and not close their eyes and sway their head.

This album is spacious, holding room for all of its members’ skills, like “Smooth Taste” and “All Over You,” which highlights the addictive percussion of Marcus Gibbons, and the walking, slapping, and sliding of bassist Donnie Mac.

“Love Is” ends with the track “Sex Machine,” drawing upon the sounds of James Brown for its vocals. It shows the luxury characteristic of timelessness, or classic quality that comes with sampling one of its genre’s gods while still pulling away with the band’s sound of its own.

With this being only its second album, Tweed Funk shows no signs of losing momentum. That’s why I urge you to visit their site, check out their new album, and hear why they’re at the top of their genre in Wisconsin. It’s the next best thing to seeing them live and becoming a member of the Tweed Funk Nation yourself.

 

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YOUPHORICLOTHING KICKSTARTER & LAUNCH PARTY FEAT. LIVE MUSIC FROM SHOOT DOWN THE MOON: A SENSORY OVERLOAD

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Cultivating through their first set, Shoot Down the Moon, a local Milwaukee indie rock/folk band with a pleasingly rustic sounding attitude, unwrapped an evening of fashion and composition. Hosting the FREE YouphoriClothing Kick-starter Launch Party May 10th was Yield Bar, located on 1932 E. Kenilworth Place right here in Milwaukee.

This recognized tavern venue holds a sepia toned characteristic with golden dimmed lighting. Encumbered with show fliers, band photographs, and other music related arts, this relaxed hangout provides a spacious place to honor such an event. Raised above the stage floor are the main bar and lounge area fit with comfortable seating options lining the outer walls and a mini arcade, concealed near the restroom area. The bottom level and venue portion is equipped with darts, a stage, and stunted saloon region. Outside, the smoker’s station is prepared with multiple seating arrangements; and if put in plastic cups, customers are granted permission to enjoy their beverages outdoors!

Utilizing the lower bar section, the YouphoriGirls fashionably situated their merchandise including: handmade jewelry, one of a kind hula hoops, and assorted recycled clothing items. Helpers, including Hannah Barth, assisted the girls in manning the stand when the stars of the night were desired elsewhere.

Prior to the fashion show, Mary Inderrieden, Ariel Tucker-Jones and Ashleigh Fischer, these focused, humble, Wisco-hunnies displayed their Kickstarter Video highlighting their freshly embraced clothing and accessory line: YouphoriClothing. Moments later, the YouphoriCrew seamlessly installed a makeshift runway in minutes.

Keeping to a fixed agenda, this troop wasted no time sending out their first model onto the runway. Behind the scenes, fashion coaches, makeup artists, and stylists assisted in the flawless operation that evening. The procedural aspects of this event showed sound signs of preparation, organization, and genuine enthusiasm. The models all held a level of professionalism that was unquestionably noticed by the audience. Whether friends, family, or volunteers these human mannequins represented the YouphoriClothing Company quite authentically by displaying proficient strides, tranquil stances and textbook gyrations to demonstrate the items worn.

The variety of items exhibited in the recycled fashion show consisted of Hoodie-Packs (which is a condensed backpack with versatile hood), painted tights, Chilla Tops (secure, yet comfortable, breathable, swim suit-esque tops), leg and arm warmers, and a complete line of menswear incorporating tie dye and patchwork designed attire, comfy, breathable leg wear, as well as many other multi colored and textured fabric articles.

With the creators, designers and management being thoroughly involved in the music scene, their creations will more than likely find their way to countless music festivals around the nation. Perfect for various climates, these girls have an ample line of multi-seasonal attires.

The YouphoriClothing line’s style or their method of approach incorporates several wardrobe categories. They demonstrate a funky, exotically wild, outlandish characteristic in the choice of get-ups. Without labeling their distinctive inimitable practice, the general public might categorize their line of dress as modest hippie swag. My personal categorization of their design construction would be defined as: SPUN-ky.

However, these girls show passion and dedication in their trade, and the products aren’t your run-of-the-mill garments you can find in mass quantities in sizes ranging from: hipster through couch potato and color variants ranging from: ‘tangerine tango’ through ‘sweet pink lilac’ like at commercial clothing outlets such as American Apparel or Urban Outfitters.

With their assortment of designs being reasonably priced, for the amount of time and effort that goes into each hand-crafted article of clothing; their collection appeals to a manifold of diversified tastes in clothing. Amongst the eccentric flavor, and talented zest, these three young ladies turned a pessimistic idea into a confident production.

The fashion show was deemed a blissful success. Portraying levels of “orgasmic sensory overload,” the last of the runway models ushered themselves back to the starting blocks to engage in a group showdown before the YouphoriGirls made their final statements of gratitude to all involved and displayed emotions of triumphant achievement and welcoming back to the stage, Shoot Down the Moon, for their second and final set of the night.

Each member adjusted their settings, and assumed positions and without hesitation broke into a synchronized thrash jam with all three guitarists heavily plucking away, the bassist mercifully twanging in intense strides, and the drummer utilizing every thumping pulsation to its’ maximum potential. It was like being angst-ridden…but in a positively, pleasant manner.

Rumbling out of this forceful, yet passionate sequence came sounds similar to that of a Harley-Davidson biker gang leaving a hangout. Motorcycle-like hums and bell and horn sonatas blared through the Yield Bar sound system producing a sharply pungent array of original, out there sounds. This group’s experimentally progressive and deep toned harmonized style solidifies their independent formality in the ability to switch pace from a labeled Indie Rock tone to a naturally alternative jam-funk tenor.

Bassist Jon Taglienti booted off his shoes, and began running in place with an unconcealed smiling grin on his face as he went for the comfort approach on stage during this YOUphoric twilight! Each member essentially played their own independent portion of each song and then simultaneously brought their conglomeration of noises together without clashing. With a five piece group in a smaller venue this can be a tricky task, especially when three guitarists are playing in sync but Jake, Fizz and Justin pulled it off. The bassist mediated each segment by providing a constant picking to control the madness. Drummer Zak Ihlenfeld held a more simplified approach for certain portions of the show in order to not add complicating distractions to the already untamed emotions being conveyed by the others.

For a few breathtaking minutes it seemed as if none of the five individuals on stage ever gasped or slowed down below the ‘as fast as we can go’ speed. A non-stop steady flow of cultural melodies held this constant, almost cheery, overwhelming sense of feeling. This explosive derailing effect planed out venturing into a spacey momentum revealing a groovy transition, again highlighting their versatile experienced multi-genre abilities.

Their witty and somewhat dark form molded into a harsh surge nearing the conclusion of the performance. The steady rush filled perspective geared down to a whiny drawn out or stretched consistency with fluent, powerful vocals. The instrumentals began to tone down, and the dramatic guitar riffs and drum breakdowns seemed like distant memories. The smooth, relaxed, and harmonized vibe kept a melodic feel as there began to be longer gaps between notes. The drummer was holding a reserved one…two step on point beat patterns continuing the spacious bluegrass/folk approach.

Shoot Down the Moon showed an immense amount of sincerity on stage and transmitted an acoustically pleasing, symphony sounding presentation taking the audience through a poetic journey of musical enjoyment.

This event was held at questionably high standards, and the turnout was immaculate. The event seemed to house a variety of different crowds, which can only be positively beneficial for both the band and vendors hosting the fashion show.

A grand exposé of optimism was represented by the YouphoriClothing crew in efforts to use recycled materials to create a unique fashion statement they may share with others. Keep an eye out for Ariel, Ashleigh, and Mary this summer at local street festivals and public events for their constantly revolving and growing collection of YouphoriClothing, jewelry, and hula-toys that never goes “outdated” or has “seasonal” restrictions; they may be coming for your closet! And stay tuned to Local Playlist for upcoming show dates for Shoot Down the Moon or check them out on bandcamp!

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POLICA WITH COLLECTIONS OF COLONIES OF BEES AT TURNER HALL 5/9/12

Minneapolis based Polica drew a full house at Turner Hall Wednesday, and already sounded polished only after their 2nd date of an extensive international tour. They’ll be joining Bon Iver in Germany this summer and be back in time for Lollapolooza in Chicago.

Created by two members of the Midwest band Gayngs, vocalist Channy Leaneagh and producer Ryan Olson, the act brings indie, R&B, electronica together.  They harness some of the charm in Florence & the Machine-esque vocal production and delivery, as well as anthem like compositions, but have a sound all their own, featuring two drummers that know how to incorporate electronic elements, and a vocalist who can sound like Sade or Sinead O’Connor in the same song. A great live set, as they were able to give heavy doses of whisper quiet moments and never lose the crowd.  Check out their website at <a href=”thisispolica.comhttp://thisispolica.com/”>thisispolica.com</a>.

Unfortunately, I missed Collections of Colonies of Bees, but from what I know of their music and gathered from other concert goers, they were a perfect fit musically and very well received. Check them out on their <a href=”websitehttp://collectionsofcoloniesofbees.net”>website</a>.

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A.R.T. BENEFIT CONCERT AT THE HAMILTON 5/12/12 PRESS RELEASE

Education in the arts is a topic that is unfortunately not a focus in politics or highlighted in the media nearly enough. Budget cuts and general neglect of this important subject have led to the decline of arts programs offered in Milwaukee’s schools. The sad truth is that many of these children do not have the best home environment and the only way for them to truly express themselves is through a creative outlet. If we do not give the today’s youth the tools they need to cultivate their talents, how we will ever have another Michaelangelo, James Dean, Mozart or John Lennon? These same questions plagued Christina Ratatori’s mind and her worries deepened when she realized that local artists were not aware of the hurdles that Milwaukee Public Schools’ arts education programs were facing. She decided to do something about this problem and formed Artists Rallying Together (aka A.R.T.).

Through events such as benefit concerts, book talks and fundraisers, A.R.T. brings together local artists, teachers and students to raise awareness and gain support for education in the arts. They understand that Milwaukee’s youth needs someone to defend their rights to study art, music, theater and dance. Organizations like A.R.T. (and Art Milwaukee to name another) continue to fight for the arts and as long as their voices keep getting louder, politicians and those in power will eventually be forced to listen. However, these groups cannot do it without the support of the community backing their efforts. So I encourage you to do what you can, whether it’s donating to the cause, attending events around the city (see below) or simply spreading the word. As long as we rally together to ensure that education in the arts continues in our schools, the talent of tomorrow will have a bright and exciting future! For more information on A.R.T., visit their website here.

Join A.R.T. tomorrow for their 3rd Annual Benefit Concert at the Hamilton Milwaukee, located at 823 East Hamilton on Milwaukee’s East Side. The event will feature musical performances by Milwaukee bands I’m Not A Pilot, The Delta Routine and The Living Room and Sven Pro Sound will be on hand to ensure sound quality. A $10 cover will go towards local arts organizations which provide arts programming for kids. The event starts at 8:30pm (doors at 8pm) and there is free parking in a lot to the west of the building, as well as a smoker’s patio for your convenience. I’m Not A Pilot and Delta Routine are both award winning bands, well known on the Milwaukee scene and not to be missed. So come out, hear some great tunes and support a great cause!

Event sponsored in part by:

ThirdCoast Digest
A.W.E Milwaukee (Artists Working in Education)
Fred Boutique
Carte Blanche Studios
Alterra

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BEYOND AWESOME 8 DANCE PARTY @ Y-NOT III 4/28/2012

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The double-decker bar and music hall, Y-Not III, located on 1854 E. Kenilworth Place, hosted the FREE event BEYOND Awesome 8: Dance Party on Saturday, April 28th, 2012 with artists Paul Demix, James Dece and Ryan Albydamned for a night with “just the right amount of dirty.” From the main bar on the first floor, one may not even know there was a concert upstairs if it weren’t for the heavy traffic on the stairwell. The bottom level contains a large bar area, seating areas, and common bar activities, and playing a mix of different genres to satisfy the ones not amused by the intense rage fest going on upstairs.

The second story holds the feeling of being in a tree house or log cabin; the walls grow at varying angles and epitomize different building structure plans with structural concaves and half walls dividing separate areas of the space. The miniature stage sits against the North facing wall of the venue, with lounge booths and tables to the right. There was an appealing vintage, bed’n’breakfast style lamp placed right on stage with a glowing red, yellow, and orange stained glass lamp shade to portray the light. The Albydamned smiley face flag hung amiably in the window behind the stage for the duration of the performance.

With Ryan Alby’s heavy samples and exclusive enchanted Egyptian Jungle beats he displays an educated knowledge of his equipment and careful choices of sampling. This long-limbed, friendly character shows true love for his fans and many can tell simply by his genuine smile that he loves making music and thoroughly enjoys making people DANCE!

The “utility pole” seemed to have gone unclaimed this evening, which never appears to be the case at these intense love fests. The concentrated bass chords trembled the floor beneath and fans paraded around the stage nearly knocking over some of the equipment resting on the stage’s outer edges.

The energy produced at these BEYOND Awesome dance parties is a clean, fun vibe, whereas at some electronic shows these days seems like a grungy drug fest where attendants aren’t even paying attention to the music, but simply nodding their head to unstructured, monotonous bass waves in a doped up stupor.

Infringed in the fresh dynamics of music, technology, and authentic spunk Mr. Ryan Albydamned creates an unadulterated environment for creativity, imagination, and originality.

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CREEP, FUNK, & STEEZ! THEN EAT SOUP

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The stage held a mysterious aura as it rested, unclaimed. The band members began situating their instruments, adjusting their settings, and mentally preparing for another Shank Hall throw-down.
The sound board gentleman regulated the sound check, the bartending staff arranged and organized the socialized ordering area and the videographer adjusted the visualizations, which were portrayed on the ceiling for this evening’s show. The beginning images on the screen contained clips from retro cartoons, an appealing throw-back.

Shank Hall welcomed Steez on April 27th, 2012 to host their album release party for their newest presentation: ” KRONOS “, with special guest: SOUP.

The arrangement of the Shank Hall music venue holds a polite feel, and is set up similar to the layout of a comedy-skit lair. The stage is set low to give an intimate portrayal, the stage bleeds into the dance floor, moving back begins the seating and lounge area, and gently placed near the windows looking on to Farwell Avenue, lays the elongated bar. The walls along each side of the stage are elegantly cluttered with photographs of bands that have previously made this venue their soulful home for an evening in the past.

Honing in on 9:45pm, the jovial members of SOUP paraded the stage. The head count at this point on the dance floor was no more than the amount of band members on the stage. As the mellow, ambient background music deadened, the members of SOUP transitioned into a smooth instrumental take of melodic qualities. Amber and gold toned mood lights gleamed down on the members following suit to the style of the performance.

A cold, dark then warm and happy approach led this set down the rabbit hole, leaning into a trancey wobble of “musical foreplay.” Holding a catchy, yet unfamiliar tone, the transformation of this act widened into a play on characters as guitarist and vocalist, Max Levin, with his back to the crowd and hand on the whammy bar, conveyed a connection with each member of the band. Eyes closed, he kept a fluent but sporadic power, letting his confidence and emotion show through his guitar.

The lighting style and color scheme revolutionized along with the flow of the set-list. Blue, green, and orange dimmed luminosity radiated over the members, purple motion spotlights were injected into the crowd as the selected tunes gained pace. Without notice, the music fluently released into a funky space jam, spinning the minds of the viewers into a habitual orbit. Descending from a heavy collaboration of sounds, the flow leveled out revealing a creeper jam that held a pleasantly whining pitch before balancing to a constant happy, upbeat, whimsical approach simulating the comforting feeling of relaxing on a beach.

Crisp white lighting highlighted each member of the band, as the three guitarists’ heads motioned in sync strides. Shank Hall takes pride in their miraculously pure audio quality, and as the amber and clear lighting beams struck the drummers station, the audience showed signs of impressed structure towards the genuinely harmonic reverberations put on by the band, supported by a superior quality audio system.

These mind bending notes hit the brain stem as would the sounds of a slinky engaging in physical relations with a yo-yo. An overcast of dramatically dark, weird and eerie echoes led these cats deep into the cavernous vault of the Pink Floyd discography, pulling out samples, hints, and entire improvised versions of Interstellar Overdrive, Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun, Careful With That Axe Eugene, Another Brick in the Wall, and Young Lust.

Utilizing a creative mix of vocals and instrumentals, Dr. Levin screeches the goblet-y lyrics, “Set the controls for the heart of the sun. The heart of the sun, the heart of the sun…” With red lasers frantically scowling across the venue and liquid visualizations seeping from the ceiling screens the room held a sinister glow as the fans just gazed directly up into the air. Levin loudly whispers, “careful…careful” as the lights cut out entirely leaving the oozing illustrative diagrams above as the only sight to ponder.

Thrashing into a hard rock jam with funky build-ups while controlling the energy of the crowd, this gifted quartet busted into ‘Tax-Man’, a crowd favorite. Entering the stage for an on-spot appearance was that of the lovely harmonized vocalist, Joni Clare Derdzinski, to enhance the feel of the fashionable Pink Floyd cover, ‘Another Brick in the Wall.’

At this point in the evening the energy was so immense and the band was having so much fun that they comfortably let loose and without intention began almost switching spots on stage due to the powerful, vigorous guitar riffs as the spectators bellowed the lyrics to Young Lust, another Floyd phenomenon: “Oooooooooooooh, I need a dirty woman! Ooooooooooooooh, I need a dirty girl!”

Every member entered raptor mode, and the lighting took the effect of being at a firework show, just shooting and spraying light fractals like garden hose cannon spotlights about the facility. As the raptors retracted their tails and loosened their claws, the ambient clashing sounds of UFOs and helicopters dwindled the last few communicating seconds of stage time for these fellows before landing back upon earth.

With SOUP driving a hard bargain for the main act to follow, Steez, fresh off the press with their newest album ‘KRONOS,’ which dropped on 4/20, utilized the energy from the opener to solidify their funky soulful charm. This modest five-piece Madison based group employ a soothing harmonic groove to every venue they step foot in.

Incorporating keyboards, synthesizers, a saxophone, oboe, bass, guitars, drums, and diverse vocals, they hold a different tone from SOUP which makes for a unique evening of dissimilar sounds. With flashing, vibrating lights and a fast-paced, eccentric, boppy attitude these five performers maintain a natural flow, coming across as smooth, central, and controlled.

Settling down to a calm blues jam, then rupturing into carnival of trance-infused roller-coaster hums, this band has a variety of techniques to please the masses. Complimenting this style of wholesome integrity, the visual lighting effects began a sequence of rainbow colored light waves with accenting aqua illumination.

The dance floor housed many more listeners than earlier in the evening as Steez created a spiraling affect of rapid screeching, yet focused instrumentals and scattered vocals. Located in a cluster of sounds, the keyboardist standing on the right hand side of the stage operated a framptone talk box used to modify the sounds coming from a musical instrument. It created a wobbly whine of yawning growls, the vocalist verbally displaying emotions by slightly adjusting his mouth over the device. This product was coined by Peter Frampton. Accompanied by this unique gadget were the spongy, fanatical, circus noises generated by the other members.
Steez has a multi-genre ability to them that allows for a variety of style ranging from a trancey roust-a-bout feel, to a mellowed soothing blues folk approach. This is a key feature these days in the music scene to keep a band evolving and fresh.

A mild, glitchy warp took over the speakers, the saxophonist chimed in as the gang introduced a hip-hop track. Video game clips from retro fighting arcade series played across the visualizer; the lighting now casting a palette of mottled pastel arrays glowed vividly. The speakers at maximum amplitude, however, neither overpowering nor crackling, released the beautiful last couple of notes toning down the set.

These elegant performances of pure, genuine embrace show the heart and soul of individuals dedicated to performing at levels of excellence. Shank Hall was compiled with Fun-ergy this evening and exposed a magnitude of being at a tiny Phish show.

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CALLIOPE, THE SMALL CITIES & IVY SPOKES AT STONEFLY MAY 5TH

Well another great weekend has come and gone again! This Saturday was pretty unique with Cinco de Mayo, the Kentucky Derby, and the “Supermoon”, bringing all the crazies out to Stonefly Brewery for some local Milwaukee music. Do414.com organized Milwaukee bands Calliope and Ivy Spokes to play with The Small Cities from the Twin Cities for a night of rock’n'roll. All three bands left some pretty big shoes to fill when it comes to entertainment and we have no doubt we’ll be hearing more from all of them.

If you are a regular Local Playlist blog reader, you would know that Calliope earned the position of Featured Talent of the month of April and they deserved it. The best way to describe their sound to put it most simply is progressive oldies with a flavor of the psychedelic. “La Catalina” features mystical spoken word from Al Kraemer combined with the gritty electric guitar sounds of Victor Buell, the song made you feel like you time traveled to a Doors concert in the 70’s, all from the comfort of Milwaukee. On bass, John was consumed with his instrument in almost a meditative state. At one point Jeremy Rogers of Do414 turned to me and said ”He is such a good bassist.” I quickly agreed, nodding my head to the music. Calliope did a fun and unique cover of Acapulco Gold as well as paid tribute to Adam “MCA” Yauch of the Beastie Boys who passed away on May 4th by covering (You Gotta) Fight For Your To Party! Go to their Facebook page or Localplaylist’s YouTube channel to see a clip of the band nailing this classic song. Towards the end of the set, the band called local musician & friend Jack Tell on stage to hold up a Sponge Bob Square Pants pinata for audience members to take a swing at in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. Check out Calliope on Facebook for up and coming show dates and make sure you check out this unique Milwaukee band.

The Small Cities, all dressed in plaid, (except for the drummer who apparently didn’t get the memo) from Twin Cities MN, took the stage next. With a tough act to follow, the guys definitely rocked out and set themselves apart from Calliope with their more modern, indie-rock which infuses just the right amount of pop while still remaining “alternative” enough for this Riverwest crowd. Some of their songs were a little more laid-back a la Jimmy Eat World but most of the set had an upbeat tone to it, reminiscent of early Kings of Leon. This four-piece is made up of Leif Bjornson and Wes Burdine both on vocals & guitar, Jimmy Osterholt on bass and David Osborn on drums, contributing heavily to vocals as well. Their set ended all too early but I hope this talented group makes it back to Milwaukee sometime soon because everyone at Stonefly thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Check out their website for music, videos, shows & more!

To cap off the night was the headliner, Ivy Spokes, a trio made up of Brandon Arndt on lead vocals, synth, keys and guitar, Hans Blanc on drums and Phil Cowen on bass. This trio continued the rock’n’roll theme of the night but with a dance-y flair that fit perfectly for the end of the night spot. Their most poppy song, “Shake it Off” on their Chaos To Cosmos Ep is simple but super catchy I feel like it will fit well on the radio and become a top single. Take a minute next time you are on a computer to check out their Facebook page for their EP and upcoming show dates!

Edited & Co-Written by Anne Conway

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MILWAUKEE ODYSSEY & IRIE VIBEZ EVENT AT O’LYDIA’S 5/11/2012

The Milwaukee entertainment scene has been thriving for a couple years and has been recently gaining momentum now more than ever. Recognizing the community vibe in our fair city, Christopher Roze of Milwaukee Odyssey (a local art curation company) and Irie Vibez Productions reached out to several organizations around the city to come together to support one event. Local Playlist was honored to be asked to be a part of this great event so please join us this Friday, May 11th, at O’Lydia’s Pub (338 S. 1st Street) for the kickoff of Milwaukee Odyssey’s newest gallery! It will be a unique night combining art, music, shopping, multi-media and food. Cover is $10 and the music has a broad scope of style, focusing on reggae, to remember the 31st anniversary of Bob Marley’s death, featuring the following performers;

• R.A.S. Movement & Naima Adedapo (Reggae)
• Natty Nation (Reggae band from Madison)
• Undercover Organism (Electronic Funk)
• D’Amato (Soul, Funk, R&B)
• BOXXX Ft. ReB (Milwaukee rap duo)
• DJ Marcus Doucette of 88.9 Radio Milwaukee

In addition to all of these great tunes, there will be a variety of activities going on all night such as;

• Drum Circle
• Odyssey Grupo de Fuego, fire spinning
• Bus painting in parking lot across from O’Lydia’s
• Live video projection
• Catering by Take Home Owen
• Patio hula hoop session
• Mini ARTket (artist vending area)

The groups sponsoring & promoting this event are as unique & eclectic as the music and activities, all representing different areas of the entertainment industry in Milwaukee. Click on the sponsors to be directed to their websites to find out more about the exciting things they’re doing!
Event Sponsors:

Recalcitrant
MKE BKE
Escape to Ecuador
Local Playlist
Art Milwaukee
88.9 Radio Milwaukee
FunTv
The Couto Bros
Pabst Blue Ribbon

And last but certainly not least, for those of you who don’t have transportation or would rather not drink & drive (or bike) from the 5th Ward, there’s a party bus to transport you from the East Side, details are as follows;

Bus departs Murray Pantry (2430 N Murray Ave) at 8pm. $5 gets you a ride there and back as well as a free PBR upon entry to O’Lydia’s! Space is limited so make sure to get there before 8pm.

Check out the Facebook invite for more details and we hope to see you there!

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