Shank Hall

5/9 - Lowen and Navarro, Stone Honey

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 06:22:43 GMT

Since the release of 1993's Broken Moon, the duo has experienced several positive changes on the career front. Perhaps most importantly, the emergence of Adult Album Alternative radio provided the perfect forum for LandN's style of music and they are now considered to be a staple at that format. Heavy radio airplay coupled with continuous touring expanded their regional fan base to a level of national recognition, with venues immediately extending offers for return engagements. Completing the picture, Broken Moon was so well received that it caused a demand from the fans for LandN's first album, originally issued on the Chameleon label. The number of requests that were sent in compelled Parachute/Mercury to buy the masters and re-release 1990's Walking On A Wire in November of 1994, (with three new songs added on as a bonus). [8pm $20]

5/10 - An acoustic evening with Mary Karlzen featuring Slumpbuster

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 21:02:12 GMT

Karlzen's career began in 1992 when an indie label owner offered to record her first album, "Mary Karlzen." It was released regionally and established her as a unique new talent. Soon after, Atlantic Records signed her just as a wave of new female acts like Sheryl Crow and Jewel were exploding on the music scene. "Yelling at Mary" received outstanding reviews from The Washington Post, People Magazine, Musician Magazine, The Chicago Sun-Times, Billboard and dozens of other publications. Her music videos were on regular rotation on VH1, CMT and The Nashville Network. She also played shows with artists like Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Nanci Griffith and many others. She toured the US and Canada for over a year to promote the album and received airplay on the top AAA radio stations, but all her hard work wasn't enough. Without the full support of Atlantic, she left in 1996. Determined never to allow anyone else control over her musical destiny again, Karlzen returned to indie status for 2000's Dim the Watershed. Soon after, she began recording The Wanderlust Diaries with no record company on the horizon. Dualtone, however, decided to take an interest. After hearing 'The Diaries' they embraced her artistic vision and welcomed her into their musical family in the Spring of 2006. "I felt like they really got this music and me too," she says. And now, Before she knew it, Karlzen was slipping away from her home town of Milwaukee to Nashville, to record with producer Jansen Press and the finest musicians Music City had to offer. Those musicians include Garry Tallent (The E- Street Band), John Deaderick (The Dixie Chicks), Ken Coomer (Wilco), Matthew Ryan and Garrison Starr. And now Karlzen returns with her long-awaited fifth album, "The Wanderlust Diaries." [9pm $7 (Smoke-free)]

5/13 - Enter The Haggis

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 02:36:02 GMT

There aren't many groups in North America who could lay claim to possibly 18 different genres of music, but Toronto's Enter The Haggis is one of them. To engage this quintet is to indulge rock, fusion, bluegrass, traditional Celtic fare, agitpop, folk, even Latin flavors. Sounds awfully confused, right? Wrong. ETH is one of those rare jewels that actually pulls it all off as if to own everything.

Back in the mid-nineties, the band was but a glimmer in the eye of piper Craig Downie. Busking on the streets of Toronto, Downie's original intention was to get reacquainted with the bagpipes he'd put down while trying to make a go of it as an actor and create a job for himself. At the time, Craig was listening to a few things that had hinted at the fusion of rock and Celtic music. He saw the future. By the end of the decade, the formative Enter The Haggis lineup was in full effect and by the release of Enter The Haggis Live! in 2002, the band would become quite a larger animal, amassing fans from coast to coast.

ETH's live show is a musical feast- viscerally dynamic, emotionally uplifting and intellectually stimulating. The band's oeuvre darts effortlessly from the trad strains of, say, The Chieftains and the Pogues to the frenetic pop of early Elvis Costello and even to the Latin-tinged spirit of the Buena Vista Social Club and beyond, complete with Trevor Lewington's deft guitar playing, the reeling of Brian Buchanan's flawless fiddle, the diverse rhythmic machinations of bassist Mark Abraham and drummer James Campbell, and Downie's transporting pipes, not to mention the near-perfect vocal harmonies. [8pm $13]

5/14 - Marty Willson-Piper (of The Church) and The Electric Mood Maidens with special guest Don Dixon

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:19:26 GMT

Marty Willson-Piper's career has led him through membership in such seminaland influential bands as The Church, All About Eve and The Saints, to an illustrious solo career. Critics have raved that Marty's influence on guitarists is profound. Endorsed by California's very own Rickenbacker Guitars, Marty was asked to open the 75th Anniversary of Rickenbacker in 2007 by John Hall, Rickenbacker's owner. Marty is constantly cited as a seminal influence on generations of guitar players and has written songs with or for Grace Slick, Susannah Hoffs, Linda Perry, Charlie Sexton and Aimee Mann as well as working on albums with Roger McGuinn, Jules Shear, Brix Smith, David Gedge and Rob Dickinson as well as an impressive list of Productions and sessions as musician, writer and vocalist. Marty is about to release his 5th solo studio album entitled "Nightjar" and has released 2 live solo albums as well as 2 albums as the "Noctorum Project" as the leadsinger, guitarist and writer.

Don Dixon has devoted his entire life to the popular song. Whether working as a singer, songwriter, musician or producer, he has always tried to capture the essence of his life in the moment.

He began playing and recording in his mid-teens, co-founding ARROGANCE, a band that helped forge the North Carolina scene which brought the world Let's Active and The dBs, along with dozens of other bands that followed in their wake. Dixon went solo in 1983 and has released nine cds. He is currently at work on a new recording with his long-time touring band, Jamie Hoover and Jim Brock. After twenty years, Jamie has named the group "Don Dixon and the Jump Rabbits". The new platter is called "The Nu-Look" and is due in early 2008.

Dixon's writing, production and session credits include astroPuppees, Baby Shaker, Richard Barone, Jim Brock, Mark Bryan, Kim Carnes, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Caitlin Cary, Joe Cocker, The Connells, Counting Crows, Marshall Crenshaw, Pat DiNizio, The Edison Project, Fetchin Bones, GB Leighton, The Golden Palominos, Guadalcanal Diary, Hootie and the Blowfish, In Tua Nua, Marti Jones, Tommy Keene, Let's Active, James McMurtry, Moxy Fruvous, REM, The Red Clay Ramblers, The Smithereens, Snagglepuss, Ronnie Spector, The Spongetones, Chris Stamey, Matthew Sweet, The X-Teens and dozens more [8pm $15]

5/15 - Kinetix, Down Lo

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:21:56 GMT

Kinetix are Denver's five-piece rock connoisseurs, playing music that blends strong melodies with soaring guitar work and funk-filled rhythm. The buzz surrounding the band is now being heard thanks to whirlwind national tours and the release of their strong sophomore album, "Talking To Faces". Committed to performing onstage with an unmatched energy, Kinetix in concert is an experience few soon forget; frenetic dancing, sing-out-loud choruses, and mind numbing solos all come standard.

All five members met at the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver. Possessing degrees that range from Jazz Studies to Recording Engineering, Kinetix is widely regarded as a band committed to their sound. Eric Blumenfeld and Adam Lufkin are both melody-driven song writers and vocalists; as co-lead singers they work seamlessly to combine their unique musical styles onstage. Their structures serve as the springboard for the power rock of Josh Fairman, Jordan Linit, and Jack Gargan. Together, their music winds itself through tight instrumental jams, hip-hop-esque beats, and aggressive, catchy songs.

Kinetix's energy cannot be overstated: Hear it on "Talking To Faces", and you will be impressed. Experience it live, and you will never want to leave the dance floor. Recently, Kinetix's emergence on the Denver scene culminated in extraordinary fashion; a summertime headlining show at the legendary 1600-seat Ogden Theatre preceded a raging Halloween night at the Fillmore Auditorium opening for Umphrey's McGee. In a few short weeks, Kinetix will be thrilled to join The Greyboy Allstars on New Year's Eve,

Since its formation in late 2004, Kinetix has had the opportunity to share the stage with the aformentioned acts, as well as Particle, Rose Hill Drive, The Slip, Umelt, Papa Mali, Green Lemon, RAQ, Outformation, and Aesop Rock of Living Legends.

Don�t miss Kinetix, bringing it soon to a city near you.

Down Lo embodies what it is to be a hard working American band. Since forming in the Twin Cities area in 2002 from humble Minnesota beginnings, the DL is now performing 175 plus shows a year across the United States. Their dedication and hard work has paid off with multiple performances at major fests such as 10,000 Lakes, Wakarusa, The Big Wu Family Reunion, HarvestFest, Log Jam, Bella Luna, Summerfest and countless other musical gatherings. The band blends a uniquely diverse combination of spiritual lyrics, rasta undertones, hip-hop influences, and straight up dirty funk, with a "jam friendly" vibe attracting an established and growing fan base.

Down Lo's musical diversity is a reflection of its components. Lead guitar player Mark Grundhoefer and bass player Ryan Nielson have connected musically on and off for over a decade. Grundhoefer is a straight up musical force and guitar prodigy, Nielson studied at the famed Music Institute in California, and brings a wealth of musical knowledge to the band. Drummer Mike Cini is the most recent addition to the project adding another unique range of influences and ideas. Rounding out the sound is multi-instrumentalist Will Nissen (Keyboards, Sax, Vocals), whose ability to adapt and change on stage makes the places the group can go musically exciting for both band and fans alike.

Down Lo has no plan of slowing down. With an established presence in the Eastern Rocky Mountain Region, and their home turf in the Midwest, the group is looking to establish an increased presence in the American South and on the East Coast. The DL hopes and plans to continually grow both musically and spiritually in the years to come. [9pm $7]

5/16 - Polydream, Catchpenny, On A Sun

Mon, 03 Mar 2008 06:26:45 GMT

The seeds of POLYDREAM were planted in May of 1998, when two small-town kids with big ambitions began performing as an acoustic duet in a tiny coffee shop in Medford, WI. As their musical appetites grew, Lucas Etten and Jonathan Knudson formed The Cadavers, a cover band whose repertoire ranged from Del Shannon to Green Day. After a local youth center performance as sophomores in high school, Luke and Jon spoke with drummer Zack Austin and Jason Bloyer about forming a rock group.

The four joined Bloyer�s brother Josh, who played bass, and performed frequently until 2000. After Jason departed, Knudson rose to the occasion and became the lead vocalist (he had already been playing guitar), and the quartet played under the names Fresh Daily, Wafer, and Fill. The four-piece stopped playing later that year, and in 2002, Knudson and Etten graduated from high school. Knudson moved to Glacier National Park in Montana, while Etten and Austin kept in touch with Knudson throughout the summer.

Then, in September Etten and Austin drove to Montana and helped him move back to Madison, WI. Etten gave up the guitar to fill the void of a bass player, and in March of 2003, the three decided on the name POLYDREAM, and began performing in a month later. In December of that year, during a short hiatus, Knudson met promising guitarist Eric LeMieux and the two began writing and rehearsing together. Knudson introduced LeMieux to POLYDREAM, and the four began performing in July of 2004.

Since their conception about one year ago, Catchpenny has demanded some serious attention from the right people with their high energy shows and a devotion to music that is leaving the crowd on their feets wanting more. Their first full length release, "Chance For A Lifetime," features 11 tracks that range from rocking you off your seat to soundtrack-type music that begs to be listened to again and again. The album was produced by Michael Bland (Prince, Soul Asylum), and co-produced and engineered by Brian Johnson . Other names lending a hand on the album include John Fields (Switchfoot, Mandy Moore, Evan and Jaron), Tommy Barbarella (Prince), Ken Chastain (Greazy Meal), among others. The album is a fusion of rock and pop that burns with precise melody and harmony. Over the course of their first 6 months of touring, Catchpenny has had the opportunity to share the stage with many chart-topping acts including Big Head Todd and the Monsters, The Gin Blossoms, and Jef Healey.

Fueled by different channels of musical influence -- Thomas favored earthy acoustic songs while Michael preferred electronic grooves and John hard rock -- the McWillliam brothers played together and separately in several groups until 2000 when John invited Michael and Thomas, who were already in a group together, to one of his acoustic shows as an audition. "I asked them if they could envision themselves on stage with me as their new singer and guitarist," recalls John.

Hitting on a combination that works, their introspective approach has already caused fans, newspaper critics, radio personalities and other local musicians to regularly compare ON A SUN to a diverse array of artists such as Pink Floyd, Radiohead, Oasis, The Police, Nirvana and Pearl Jam.

The McWilliam brothers feel that ON A SUN was simply meant to be. All three members believe it wasn't until they came together as a band that they began to truly understand the possibilities. A brotherly connection plus authentic chemistry place ON A SUN in a position to accomplish whatever they attempt. [9pm $7]

5/17 - Face Value USA

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:31:06 GMT

Face Value - A captivating live tribute to the magic of Phil Collins and Genesis.

Performing Genesis selections such as Squonk, Afterglow, Abacab, Behind the Lines, as well as selective songs from Phil's own solo career.

Face Value's performances are unique, and an incredibly entertaining show for all. Phil Collins' and Genesis' contributions in music have seen an astounding record sales total of well over 300 million!! Don't miss the show! [8pm $10]

5/24 - The Good Hex, Back Roads, Paul Curtis Band

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 04:58:45 GMT

[8pm $7]

5/29 - WMSE and Rush-Mor Limited presents 2 Foot Yard featuring Carla Kihlstedt from Tin Hat and Sleepytime Gorilla Museum

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 01:55:55 GMT

These three outstanding young musicians take their audiences on a genre-defying journey through soundscapes that are as innovative as they are accessible. This is violin, cello and percussion as you've never heard them--played with power, passion, humor and virtuosic wit. In the hands of this bold and hard-grooving ensemble, each piece is a miniature slice of life that will change your viewpoint and charge your emotions.

2 Foot Yard shatters the boundaries between art song and pop song...

2 Foot Yard shatters the boundaries between art song and pop song by merging the visceral power of rock with the intimacy and warmth of chamber music. Violin, cello, voice, and drums combine to create a cacophony of harmonic (im)balance culled from an astonishing array of musical influences, from acoustic punk to the twang of old country love ballads. This trio features Tzadik recording artist Carla Kihlstedt (Tin Hat, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, The Book of Knots) on violin and vocals, Marika Hughes (Charming Hostess, Vienna Teng) on cello and vocals, and Shahzad Ismaily (Marc Ribot, Secret Chiefs 3, Laurie Anderson) on percussion and guitar, and guarantees an off-kilter ride through the worlds of drama and melody. Combining the harmonic breadth of contemporary classical music and the spontaneity of improvisation, their diverse musical backgrounds come together in one cohesive and unique voice as 2 Foot Yard performs genre-breaking instrumentals and vocal miniatures. [8pm $10]

5/31 - The Subcontinentals, The Calamities and special guest Robin Pluer

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:12:35 GMT

Mike and John Sieger have been in music so long their DNA has quarter and eighth notes in it. They played together in some of the best bands Milwaukee has produced, prominently The RandB Cadets (soul, RandB and swing) and Semi-Twang, who did a well received record for Warner Brothers called "Salty Tears." Try and find it, it was alt country before there was such a thing. As Semi-Twang was winding down, John and Mike hooked up with John Carr. Shortly after that, John and his family moved to Nashville to pursue songwriting, but not without making a mental note about John Carr's skills at the traps. It would be best from now on to refer to John Carr as "Ravi" as in Ravi John Carr, a bad pun, but good enough for us. When the Nashville branch of the Siegers returned to Milwaukee after 6 years, John, Ravi and Mike found themselves a sideman gig in Big Nick and the Cydecos, a cajun outfit that also featured the sterling Kelli Gonzales on vocals. This band gigged all over and new chemical balance was achieved, perhaps the best one yet. The Siegers, who harmonize like only brothers can, had found a sister who had just the right amount of soul (a ton) and taste to make for a fine harmony singing retro-soul band. The Subcontinentals was born! Please check out "This Here's A Groove" for a little taste. It's from their soon-to-be-finished first record, "The Early Years." That work-in-progress is being produced by John in his home studio, Room w/a VU, with the hope of finally getting it done this summer. The three songs available here are all written by John, but the Subs do plenty of of cool covers, from Louis Prima and The Crystals to, believe it or not, Rosemary Clooney. The guiding philosophy behind their choice of covers is this: If Kelli brings it in and wants to sing it, it will work. Hasn't failed yet!

When the Calamities perform, it's quite the spectacle. Wrapped in suit jackets, white pants, opera coats and spats, they act classier than they really are. Their sound is for everyone, being the essence of Goldilocks description of just right. From Jimi Hendrix to Chuck Berry's "Johnny B. Goode," they've got it made for mass audience appeal.

She's a sultry diva with pizzazz and jazzy style. She's a multi-faceted songstress who elegantly but playfully delivers a melange of vintage French ballads with a distinctive twist.

Robin Pluer, a perennial WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) Award winner, has been once again awarded Milwaukee's Best Female Vocalist by the Shepherd Express for an unprecedented third year. This chanteuse with panache has become a mainstay at Bastille Days festivals. Over the past 20 years Robin has performed and composed music with John Sieger (RandB Cadets), Paul Cebar (and the Milwaukeeans) and Peter Buffett. Her fresh, engaging talent has afforded her opportunities coast to coast including Garrison Keeler's "Prairie Home Companion" and NPR�s "World Cafe." Recently, Pluer has returned from touring Europe.

Wherever she performs, whether it's her funky RandB or flirtatious medley of French "oldies," Robin Pluer effortlessly captivates her audiences. She can transport you to a more genteel France through chansons of the past, or strike your inner musical soul with her original RandB style. [9pm $10 (Smoke-free)]

6/5 - Ray Bonneville

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:19:43 GMT

Ray Bonneville is a roaming blues poet, inspired by the road and the many other places he has called home--New Orleans, Colorado, Arkansas, Alaska, Boston, Seattle and Paris, France. Born in Canada and raised in the United States, Bonneville has lived all over. No place, however, has been more influential than New Orleans.

In the streets and clubs of New Orleans, Bonneville soaked up the prevalent take-your-time attitude that ran through the music being played there. "There's something about the heat and humidity that makes people slow down," he says. "New Orleans is where I learned to take my time, to allow space between the notes so the songs could truly groove." That groove is at the core of Bonneville's sound. A one-man band, he backs up weathered, storytelling vocals with a highly percussive guitar style, dramatic harmonica lines and a foot that keeps the rock steady beat. The result is a big sound with an almost primitive quality. It's visceral, raw music.

Like the great American writers of the south and his favorite authors Cormac McCarthy and Flannery O'Connor, Bonneville is inspired by the places he has been and the unusual people he has met throughout his travels. His songs are like short stories, evoking true-to-life characters that stumble their way through a rough and tumble world of violence, hope and despair. Heavily influenced by the natural world, Bonneville finds himself splitting his time these days between Montreal, Austin and Cotter, Arkansas, where he likes to write songs and fly-fish the White River.

Honing his craft for the last 30 years, Bonneville's gritty storytelling and deep-grooving blues style has won him much critical attention. In 1999, Ray won the prestigious Juno Award (Canadian Grammy) for his third album Gust of Wind. His fourth release, Rough Luck, was also nominated for the coveted award. With his 2004 Red House debut Roll It Down, Ray made himself a name in blues and roots music circles, garnering rave reviews from DownBeat and No Depression. He has toured all over the world, sharing the bill with such blues legends as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, J.J. Cale and Robert Cray and in 2007 wowed the music industry with his bring-down-the-house performances at the South By Southwest and Folk Alliance conference. A world-class guitarist, harmonica player and hard-hitting songwriter, it is no wonder that Ray has received rave reviews from blues, jazz and roots critics alike and can count among his fans such artists as Chris Smither and Ray Wylie Hubbard.

Ray is currently touring across North America in support of his new Red House record Goin' By Feel, which will be released in early 2008. Co-produced by Gurf Morlix (Mary Gauthier, Lucinda Williams), Rob Heaney (Cirque du Soleil, Kate and Anna McGarrigle) and himself, the album features a special guest appearance by Eliza Gilkyson, who sings on "I Am the Big Easy" and "Carry the Fallen," his dark portrait of war's damaging consequences. This power-packed album of smoky groove-laden story songs proves once again that he "creates his own powerful and unique version of the blues" (Dirty Linen). [8pm $15]

6/6 - Spanglish Band

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 21:01:16 GMT

This group is the result of people searching for a change from the "normal" latin music scene in America. More and more people are wanting a variety from the bands they go to see. The community is extremely important to us and we aim to please them with our style and musical selections.

Spanglish Band extends an invitation to all cultures! You will hear both American and Latino music from our groups. The song list is an eclectic mix of genres and styles, sung in both English and Spanish.

Songs that we play come from an assortment of groups. For example: Michael Stuart, Ozomatli, Jimmy Bosch, Santana, Ruben Blades, Juan Luis Guerra, Funky Cubanics and the Lonely Boys to name a few. The band is also concentrating on some original songs. The arrangements will be added to our musical collection some time in 2008.

We look forward to performing for you soon! []

6/7 - The Bryan Cherry Band

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:08:42 GMT

Drawing strong comparisons to Ben Harper and Jimi Hendrix while creating a sound unique to themselves, the Bryan Cherry Band mix the soulful elegance of folk with raucous and gripping blues-rock sounds. Evolved, energetic and intelligent best describe the new work which covers every angle of Cherry's charismatic vocal delivery, diverse instrumentation and composition of guitarist Sean Williamson, virtuoso bass playing of Matt Turner, and collaborative songwriting of the group as a whole. A music whose sound proves that it is still possible for both power and beauty to be heard and more importantly felt down to the deepest bone in your body. []

6/13 - Rumbleseat, Feral Catz

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:58:39 GMT

"Rumbleseat" came together from separate music backgrounds and unified as a group to create something new and exciting. This highly talented band full of musicians who love music and love to perform will keep you wanting more. "Rumbleseat" is pure unadulterated rock and roll plain and simple, with their own unique flavor thrown in. Combining keyboards, heart-stopping guitars, and a rock solid rhythm section, with energetic drumbeats, and smooth fluid bass lines. This band will definitely "Keep the House Rockin". So be sure to make time to see these seasoned music veterans lay down a solid set of rock. [9pm $5]

6/14 - Fish

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:17:41 GMT

Fish's music defies trends and fashion, it's a brave statement in these days of banal musical small talk.

Always a maverick artist and consummate performer, Fish has achieved a high level of success during his 27 years in the music business and the fact that he is capable of creating an album - 13th Star - regarded by many as the best in his career to date is testament to his enduring talent, resilience and determination. [8pm $30]

6/18 - The Strawbs (The classic 1974 lineup!), Judith Owen

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 03:25:53 GMT

One of the better British progressive bands of the early '70s, the Strawbs differed from their more successful compatriots -- the Moody Blues, King Crimson, Pink Floyd -- principally in that their sound originated in English folk music, rather than rock. Founded in 1967 as a bluegrass-based trio called the Strawberry Hill Boys by singer/guitarist Dave Cousins, the group at that time consisted of Cousins, guitarist/singer Tony Hooper, and mandolinist Arthur Phillips, who was replaced in 1968 by Ron Chesterman on bass. That same year, the group -- now rechristened the Strawbs, and doing repertory well beyond the bounds of bluegrass music -- briefly became a quartet with the temporary addition of Sandy Denny, who stayed long enough to record a relative handful of tracks with the group on the Hallmark label before joining Fairport Convention.

In 1969, the Strawbs were signed to AandM Records, and cut their first album, the acoustic-textured Strawbs, that same year. For their second album, Dragonfly, recorded and released the following year, the group broadened their sound with the presence of a group of session musicians, including piano/organist Rick Wakeman. Soon after the release of this record, the group became a full-fledged band with the addition not only of Wakeman but also Richard Hudson and John Ford, on drums and bass, respectively. These changes, coupled with Cousins' increasing dexterity on electric guitar, gave the Strawbs a much more powerful sound that was showcased on their next album.

The live Just a Collection of Antiques and Curios (1970) sold well, and was followed up the next year with From the Witchwood. In 1971, Wakeman left the Strawbs in order to join Yes; he was replaced by Blue Weaver formerly of the Amen Corner. Grave New World (1972) showed the band entering its strongest period, with Cousins' songwriting augmented by the new prowess of the composing team of Hudson and Ford. The record became their best-selling album to date. Unfortunately, its release also heralded the exit of Tony Hooper. He was replaced by Dave Lambert, a more aggressive, rock-oriented guitarist, and his addition brought the group into its peak period. The Strawbs' 1973 album, Bursting at the Seams, featured two Top Ten U.K. hits, "Lay Down" and "Part of the Union," and one album track, "Down by the Sea," racked up substantial airplay on American FM radio.

It was all too good to last, and it didn't. Blue Weaver left after one more tour, while Hudson and Ford exited to form Hudson-Ford, also signed to AandM. The Strawbs regrouped in 1974 with Hero and Heroine, recorded with a new lineup consisting of Cousins, Lambert, keyboardist John Hawken, bassist Chas Cronk, and drummer Rod Coombes. The new album was a critical and commercial failure in England, but proved popular in America. Their next two albums, Ghosts (1975) and Nomadness (1976), both did better in the U.S. than they did in the U.K. None of this was enough to sustain the group, however, which continued to lose members and also left AandM Records. Two more albums on the Oyster label were poorly distributed and received, and one album for Arista, Deadlines (1978), was a failure, while a second record for the label was never released. The group ceased to exist at the end of the 1970s, and Cousins embarked on some solo projects in association with guitarist Brian Willoughby that attracted the interest of die-hard fans but few others. That might have been the end of the group's history, if it hadn't been for an invitation to play the 1983 Cambridge Folk Festival. The Strawbs responded, in the guise of Cousins, Hooper, Hudson, Ford, Weaver, and Willoughby, and the response was so favorable that a tour was scheduled, which, in turn, led to their return to America in the mid-'80s. The group followed this up with two new studio albums released in Canada, and still plays whenever other commitments allow Cousins and company (with Rod Demick on bass and Chris Parren on keyboards) to get together. In 1993, they released their own retrospective concert album Greatest Hits Live!, which summed up many of the high points of their history. [8pm $30]

6/20 - My Mourning Belle

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 20:58:21 GMT

My Mourning Belle is the vision of Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter Mark Allen....

As is evident on the first single, "Start Again," the music of My Mourning Belle blends the lyrical and melodic sensibilities of a classic singer-songwriter with the passion and exuberance of anthemic rock. The result is a sound that is both uplifting and melancholic with themes that are at once cynical and romantic. Lyrically, Allen addresses all of the usual topics of life, death, love, and relationships. The most persistent theme, however, concerns the challenge of being true to one's self in the face of the more conventional ideals of the world around us. Whether with the soaring chorus of "See You Around," the haunted soul rock of "Lorelei," the aching beauty of "Tears in a River," or the doomed romanticism of "The Hopelessness of Hope," Allen fuses our sadness, hopes, and fears into melodies that we can sing along to.

Allen made his debut as My Mourning Belle on Good Friday 2007 with an acoustic set in front of a greater-than-capacity crowd at Linneman's Riverwest Inn. Since then, he has distinguished himself as an artist to watch, captivating audiences with his emotive voice and ardent live performances. []

6/21 - The Grand Parade (a tribute to GENESIS)

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 18:51:55 GMT

Grand Parade formed in October 1997 as a tribute to the early music (70s) of the progressive rock giants, Genesis. Grand Parade began booking shows at Chicago-area clubs in 1999.

Over the next few years, the band developed a play list of more than five hours of Genesis material while building a dedicated following of progressive rock fans from around the Chicago area and greater Midwest.

Today, thanks to the band's ongoing commitment to accurate musical arrangements, excellent musicianship, and exciting stage presentations, Grand Parade's acclaim continues to grow, drawing consistent audiences ranging from 150 to 250 people. []

7/16 - James Lee Stanley

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:22:38 GMT

James Lee Stanley became known to Monkees fans in the mid-'90s when the Two Man Band album was released, a project involving him and ex-Monkee Peter Tork. Born in Philadelphia on April 30, 1946, Stanley first met Tork at a Virginia club in 1963 and moved to New York City four years later, becoming involved in the city's folk scene. He spent time in the Air Force during the late '60s and early '70s, and studied music at Cal State-Northridge after his discharge. Upon graduation, Stanley began working as a songwriter for producer Bones Howe, a relationship which led Stanley to a recording contract with the Wooden Nickel division of RCA.

He released three albums for RCA during the '70s: a self-titled debut, James Lee Stanley Too, and Three's a Charm. He also recorded for MCA, Takoma, and Regency before forming his own Beachwood label for Live at McCabe's in the early '80s. He consistently released albums during the 1980s and '90s, and after Tork's Stranger Things Have Happened appeared on Beachwood, the duo began touring together. Two Man Band, released in 1995, was actually recorded live in the studio.
John Bush, All Music Guide [8pm $15]

7/19 - Blue, Seriously

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 20:59:37 GMT

While currently working on their upcoming 'Marigold' EP; blue, seriously is confidently taking on Milwaukee by a not so silent yet steady storm....

Encouraged by Jim Linneman, of the famous Linneman's River West Inn; what started out as David Goeb's singer/songwriter open mic act, has turned into a crowd-pleasing trio mixing melancholic melodies with tight grooves and soaring highs.

A new voice in the Milwaukee music scene; David quickly waved off his solo act and wisely scooped up two of Milwaukee's most talented musicians. First he contacted seasoned drummer Sam Goeb (of former Sgt.606 fame) to power the songs to the limit. The brother's Goeb only improved when the trio was completed by the highly sought after Jamie Owart, of the former Milwaukee band Carolina, providing a steady vibrant pulse on Bass. Less than a year later; This rare combination of selflessness and talent.... This fun act, inviting friends and fellows to play along on stage.... This friendly blue, seriously would be playing to a host of fans that come to see a "can't miss" show in well regarded venues such as Linneman's River West Inn, The Riverwest Commons, The BBC, Bremen Cafe, and Shank Hall.

Their sound is quite unique yet, with remarkable influences -- some say the falsetto is Radiohead-esque but the acoustic patterns are of an Oasis fashion. Mix that with the rhythms of British-based South and the bass of something off of The Beatles Revolver and your getting closer. Really, they just call it blue, seriously and it hits you high and hard and keeps your heart pumping and your hands clapping. Listen for yourself or better yet come see the trio in action because blue, seriously is warm and welcoming and you won't want to leave. []

7/22 - Cory Chisel and Joshua James, Amber Rubarth

Mon, 05 May 2008 03:14:50 GMT

Like many American musicians, across vastly diverse backgrounds, cultures and genres, singer-songwriter Cory Chisel forged his first connection to the power of song through the music he heard - and made - in church. His father was a Baptist pastor, his mother played piano during services, and an upbringing surrounded by sermons and spirituals instilled in Cory the passion and portent of language and melody, and a fluency in the gospel's rich vernacular of loss and redemption.

At the age of 19, after street skating in and around Lincoln for the better part of his teenage years, Joshua packed his bags and traveled through South America, spending most of his time abroad in Venezuela. The perspective of travel inspired him to start writing poetry and songs upon his return to the U.S., and in his twenties, Joshua picked up a guitar for the first time. Joshua set up a mic and mixer at home and began posting his songs on myspace and other internet networking sites. The music found its way to L.A.-based producer Shannon Edgar, who invited Joshua to California in May 2006 to record in Edgar's Burbank studio. Augmented by a small group of musicians playing bass, drums, electric guitar, pedal steel and accordion, the recordings became Joshua�s first full-length album, 2007's The Sun is Always Brighter. The original digital release on iTunes reached #1 on the service's Folk Album list.

After 3 years of a full time wood sculpting apprenticeship, Amber Rubarth had a late-night conversation with her mentor who told her the most important thing he had learned in life was for a person to follow their number one passion. Amber said something along the lines of "Thank you, I am quitting and doing music then," and off she went, trading her chainsaw for a guitar and teaching herself to write and play songs.

Her debut record came out 2 years later, and was lauded as "Top 10 of 2005" in The Owl Mag (alongside Kanye West, Fiona Apple and Jack Johnson). Soon after she was touring non-stop around the country and Europe, with word spreading fast at her shows and online.

Amber's songs beam a refreshing mixture of vulnerability and courage, melancholia and optimism. "Washing Day" (co-written with Adam Levy of Norah Jones' Band) won first place of 15,000 entries in this year's International Songwriting Competition (Lyrics). The music video for the song was selected as one of 20 to be officially screened at SXSW (alongside such greats as Thom Yorke and Weird Al Yankovic).

As Music Connection puts it, Rubarth has "excellent mastery of the guitar, equally impressive on piano.. and a soaring voice that can belt out any tune. As she continues to hone her craft and grow, she may become unstoppable." [8pm $10 advance/$12 door]

7/23 - Walter Trout and the Radicals

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 04:20:22 GMT

The Los Angeles Times describes Walter Trout as "a torrential, gladiator guitar player - the kind the term 'guitar hero' was coined to describe." With his arresting technique, relentless tour schedule, (Trout plays upwards of 200 dates/year) and exhilarating showmanship, Trout merited the cover of Blues Revue in October '00, and his first American live album, Live Trout (released in 2000), hit #15 on the Billboard Blues charts followed by a Top 10 entry with "Go The Distance." Now "Relentless" propels the forward momentum. The 14 original tunes were performed for the first time as they were being recorded in front of a dynamic studio audience at the Paradiso Theater in Amsterdam. It was produced by Jim Gaines, (Blues Traveler, Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan). As cuts like the hard driving "Mercy" and soft acoustic "Lonely Tonight" can attest, Walter Trout and The Radicals' final destination may be unknown, but they have embarked on the journey and are enjoying the ride, picking up rabid fans along the way. [8pm $16]

7/25 - Junior Brown

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:27:05 GMT

A singer and demon guitarist whose raucous blend of country and rock and roll helped make him a successful crossover act, Junior Brown was born in 1953 and raised in the backwoods of Kirksville, IN. He first learned to play the piano from his pianist father, and was exposed to country through radio and TV, becoming a fan of Ernest Tubb's music and television program. He became a professional musician at the tail end of the '60s, while still in his teens.

After honing his guitar skills in relative anonymity throughout the '70s, Brown became an instructor at the Hank Thompson School of Country Music, an affiliate of Rogers State College in Oklahoma. There, while teaching under the auspices of steel guitar legend Leon McAuliffe, a onetime member of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys, Brown met "the lovely Miss Tanya Rae," a student whom he would later marry in 1988 and who eventually joined his band as a rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist. At the same time, a dream prompted him to set about creating an instrument fusing a six-string guitar with its steel counterpart. After contacting guitar maker Michael Stevens, in 1985 he developed the "guit-steel," a double-necked guitar combining the standard instrument with the steel. (A decade later, the two men reunited to update the "guit-steel," and Brown's cherry axe "Big Red" was born.)

After moving to Austin, TX, Brown and his group became the house band at the city's Continental Club, where strong word-of-mouth eventually earned them a record deal. He made his long-awaited album debut in 1993 with 12 Shades of Brown, which featured a tribute to his biggest influence, "My Baby Don't Dance to Nothing but Ernest Tubb." Guit With It followed later in the year, and like its predecessor, was met with considerable critical acclaim. After a five-song stopgap EP, 1995's Junior High, Brown returned in 1996 with Semi Crazy. The Long Walk Back followed two years later.
Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide [8pm $20]