Fall for Great Shows this Season

The best alternative shows in RI all season plus an interview with Hope Anchor

I’d figured with Hope Anchor-a-mania about to run rampant through the city, a fun person to do an interview with would be the band’s guitarist, Terry Linehan. Known as Terry Dread back in the day, he has literally seen it all from being on a major label with Waterdog, touring as a guitarist for Green Day, and even being in a Green Day side project called The Frustrators with Mike Dirnt. He got a shout out from Billie Joe Armstrong at Green Day’s recent appearance at The Dunk. Terry co-owns a punk bar in Providence called The Scurvy Dog where the music is always loud and there’s a great selection of beers. To kick off the Fall Guide, I figured I’d ask him a few questions to get the dish on Never Gonna Let You Go and his thoughts on the music scene.

MC: How would you compare Never Gonna Let You Go to your debut release, Pile on the Dirt?

TL: Firstly, Pile on The Dirt was recorded in three spurts over four years and I think it sounds like that. Even if you’ve been doing this for as long as we have as musicians, it takes a while to feel the direction out as a band. After we did Pile on The Dirt, the songs on Never Gonna Let You Go are the next nine songs plus bits we wrote that we threw against the wall and stuck. So it has more of an immediate feel and is less calculated. I think it’s more visceral as well. Music should be physical and I think this record has that.

MC: How do you feel Hope Anchor as a band has evolved in the last couple of years?

TL: Well, you got enough copy for that? We started with a bunch of music I had written, assembled the group and tested what worked that I had written and what didn’t, then hit the studio. Since Pile on The Dirt there have been three major changes. 1) Eric Fontana left the band as he had his first child and we respect his decision and admire his contributions during his tenure, 2) we added Pip’s brother Matthew as a violin player, which makes us sound like a haunted house! 3) I switched from playing Gibsons to Fender Jazzmasters, which allows me to use the whammy like My Bloody Valentine, but use it in hard blues, which I’m not sure has been done before.

MC: As a longtime fixture on the music scene, how would you compare the music scene of today to say 10 or 20 years ago?

TL: The scene today has a lot more information, a lot more bands, and a lot less music fans. Local bands used to draw 800 people on a Friday at the Promenade St. Living Room. It seems like bands are mostly playing to other bands these days. I think the internet has made it so people don’t have to go out and see bands live to know what they’re getting anymore. Also there are obviously way less record stores anymore. I admire the ones we have, but I feel bad that kids don’t go to a record store to learn about music anymore.

MC: What are the three things you are most proud of in your music career?

TL: This’ll sound corny, but I’m most proud of our new record. Like everything else, it’s the culmination of a lifetime in music. Besides that, I’m super proud of playing guitar for Green Day on the American Idiot tour. It was a special record at a special time. We were in the middle of the Bush years and very publically rallying against them. Thirdly I’m very proud of the last Frustrators record and tour. Mike and I wrote the record in five hours, recorded it the next day and hit the road the next year having not played together as a band in 10 years!

MC: What were some the influences or types of things you guys were shooting for making this record?

TL: The new record was more influenced by time and place than other artists. I can’t speak for the other guys, but R.L. Burnside is the only palpable thing I tried to channel on anything. We were lucky enough to get flown to Oakland last summer to play some shows, and while we were there, we laid down the drum tracks for the album. We came home and did overdubs with Kraig Jordan and then flew back to Oakland to mix with Denny Muller. Also Pip playing the harmonica was a big part of shaping these new songs. Having other instruments that can make a racket without just adding more and more guitars allows things to breathe and still be loud and raucous. Pip and I had a conversation and decided to make our version of a blues record. We also wanted the record to be listened to beginning to end as one thing, so we added the blues bits between the songs to connect the dots. We recorded the blues bits on a handheld recorder in Pip’s living room. We wanted to sound like two old blues guys playing.

Hope Anchor will be playing during intermission at the Providence Roller Derby bout at the Rhode Island Convention Center on September 14th. Doors are at 5 pm with the bout between the Old Money Honeys and the Mob Squad scheduled to start at 6 pm.

Mean Creek

Mean Creek are considered by some to be the best local band going in Boston right now. They mix in a little American, but are basically just full tilt rock & roll music wise. This is a strong bill for straight ahead rock & roll between Northern Lands, WBRU Rock Hunt champs Torn Shorts, and Dylan Sevey and The Gentlemen. I know there is a lot of competition on this night, but if you’re going for the rock & roll, I guess this show would win out!

Mean Creek, Northern Lands, Torn Shorts, Dylan Sevey & The Gentlemen, and The Ya Beautifuls rock The Spot on September 6.

The Gaslight Anthem

New Jersey bred rockers; The Gaslight Anthem return to Lupo’s to play their blue collar anthems. As far as an audio description, they’re pretty much modern day cookie cutter alternative rock. They do wear it well though, as I caught them last time they were in town and it was pretty much a love fest with the crowd singing along with the band on every song.

The Gaslight Anthem, The Sidekicks, and Gates rock Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel on September 6.

Biz Markie

Biz Markie isn’t sitting at home counting all the money he made from those Heineken commercials using “Just A Friend.” He’ll be coming to Fete and no doubt bringing the party with him. I love all that late 80s/early 90s hip-hop. It was just a fun era in music before everyone started fronting. Come down to Fete and take a trip back in the time machine to that era with Biz Markie.

Biz Markie plays Fete on September 6.

Pere Ubu

The other day I realized that Pere Ubu have been around for 38 years and found it mind boggling. They get classified as an experimental rock band on Wikipedia, largely because the categories for “alternative” or indie rock” had yet to be invented. Pere Ubu started from the ruins of the Cleveland punk band, Rocket From The Tombs (the other members formed The Dead Boys). Since then Pere Ubu have hit marks all over the spectrum and been a major influence on bands like The Pixies. I haven’t heard about them touring and have been eagerly anticipating this show for months.

Pere Ubu, Gagarin, and Atlantic Thrills will rock Fete on September 23rd.

D.O.A.

Hardcore punk legends D.O.A. come to town on what is being billed as a farewell tour. If that is true, D.O.A. have had one hell of a run. To celebrate their arrival, Firehouse 13 is re-opening for a night. In addition to D.O.A, local legends Neutral Nation and Drunk Robb and The Shots open the show along with The F.U.’s from Boston. If punk rock is your thing, this will be the show to be at!

D.O.A., Neutral Nation, The F.U.’s, and Drunk Robb and The Shots are at Firehouse 13 on September 13th.

Rocktucket

Rocktucket returns for its 5th annual takeover outside 250 Main Street in Providence. This year’s festival features something for everybody with acts geared more towards kids early in the day and then shifting to singer songwriters, then going full tilt rock ‘n’n roll, and then on to hip hop to close the party right. Of the rock portion, I’m stoked to see the Atlantic Thrills, Gavage, Malyssa & The Liberators and Ants in The Cellar. All great bands and what’s better than getting to drink out in the street while listening to some great music.

Rocktucket will take over Main St in Pawtucket on Saturday September 14th. The event happens outside 250 Main Street and runs from 1130AM to 11PM as part of the Pawtucket Arts Festival. Performers include KRIS HANSON, NATURAL ELEMENTS, FUNKY AUTOKRATS FEATURING MARK LOVE, ATLANTIC THRILLS, ANTS IN THE CELLAR, MALYSSA AND THE LIBERATORS, GAVAGE, BLESSED ENERGY, SIDY MAIGA AND THEAFRIMANDING, CASED CLOSED, DIRTYDURDIE, MILEZ GRIMEZ, THR33 PIECE SUIT, BLOCK MCCLOUD, BLACASTAN, TERMONOLOGY, and APATHY. Check out their page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/301255376681071/ for more info and set times.

Dudesmash 2

Deer Tick return to town to present “Dudesmash 2” which promises to be an epic rock ‘n’ roll party. Deer Tick are releasing a new album brightly titled Negativity later in the month and will doubtless be featuring a bunch of new material along with old favorites. This show is like a who’s who of local bands with Americana favs The Low Anthem, Joe Fletcher and The Wrong Reasons, rockers Ravi Shavi, and country rockers Smith & Weeden all on the bill. I’m also looking forward to seeing T Hardy Morris of Dead Confederate perform solo, after catching an epic performance by him with the band this past Memorial Day Weekend.

Saturday September 14th ; Deer Tick and 95.5 WBRU presents “DudeSmash 2” – an outdoor concert featuring Deer Tick, The Low Anthem, Jonny Fritz, Joe Fletcher and the Wrong Reasons, T Hardy Morris (of Dead Confederate / Diamond Rugs), Last Good Tooth, Ravi Shavi, Smith & Weeden, The Kolour Kult, and Vio/Mere at the Met Café’s Courtyard, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket RI. The show is all ages with 4PM doors / 5PM show.

Walk The Moon

Fresh off a recent appearance at the Jay Z- curated Made in America festival, Walk The Moon return to town to bring their dancey alternative rock to the big stage in town. It seems like a big jump for a band that played to a well-less-than-capacity show at The Met this past winter but there’s little doubt that Walk The Moon has some momentum going for them now. I wouldn’t call them really rock, closer to a boy band of alternative rock. A little 80’s, but the songs are catchy enough to have a good time with on the dance floor.

Walk The Moon and Magic Man play Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel on September 18th.

R.I. Pizza Wars

Okay, so this isn’t a show but the chance to have free pizza from some of the state’s best pizzerias sounds good enough to me! There are much worse ways to spend a Friday night than eating free pizza and having a couple of beverages on top of that. One can also vote if they care enough on the contenders and a Pizza Champion will be crowned at the end of the night. Personally, I’ll probably stick to eating pizza.

R.I. Pizza Wars will go down at the Met Café on September 20th. Pawtucket Fireworks Committee 2014 Fundraiser

I’m all for supporting causes that fund blowing stuff up! Throw in two sets by Rhode Island Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers, Steve Smith & The Nakeds and you have one whale of a Sunday night! Steve Smith and The Nakeds fit into the category of straight up rock ‘n’ roll and one hell of a party band to boot!

Pawtucket Fireworks Committee 2014 Fundraiser featuring music by Steve Smith and The Nakeds happens at the Met Café on September 22nd. There will be an auction from 5PM to 6PM, followed by two sets from Steve Smith and The Naked. Proceeds will go towards funding the third annual fireworks display at McCoy Stadium on July 3rd, 2014.

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears

Black Joe Lewis and The Honeybears bring it with a mix of funk and soul that is sure to electrify the night. Taking major influence from the likes of Howlin’ Wolf and James Brown, Lewis and his band are not the type of band that you’re going to be able to stay seated for. The Silks will kick off the night with their patented mountain-man flavored rock ‘n’ roll.

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears and The Silks will rock Fete on September 24th.

990WBOB Presents Mondays on Blast

We all hate Mondays but that doesn’t mean they have to suck. What if there was a place you could go to see and hear a couple of comedians and catch a couple of bands for free? There is and that place is The Spot (formerly Underground – now above ground). 990WBOB broadcasts from there every Monday and showcases a diverse blend of the many styles of the local music scene. Whatever your cup of tea is, if you don’t like the bands one week, come back because you’ll probably love them the next week! In addition The Spot has an open kitchen in case you get the munchies and need something to snack on.

990WBOB Presents Mondays on Blast every Monday at The Spot located above ground on Richmond St. in Providence. The show kicks off at 9PM and rages all night.

Forever Young

Forever Young is a super group of local musicians who do a great job breathing new life into Neil Young’s large catalogue. They do everything from Young’s folk numbers to the full on Crazy Horse barnburners. They don’t win the Motif Award for Best Tribute Act every year for sucking. Trinity will open the night with a Crosby Stills and Nash set. No word at press time whether they have to stay away from Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young material to avoid a conflict.

Forever Young and Trinity will play the Met Café on September 28.

They Might Be Giants

I keep waiting for They Might Be Giants to go on a tour and call it the Revenge of The Nerds 25th Anniversary tour as a testament to their staying power. Often mocked when they first surfaced in the 80s, They Might Be Giants laughed along with the joke by writing songs about it like “Rhythm Section Want Ad.” They Might Be Giants still put out albums, and although they may not be getting the crossover hits like “Birdhouse in Your Soul” anymore, they’re still money live for a good time. They Might Be Giants and Mooch Hooch are at Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel on October 8.

The Parkington Sisters

The Parkington Sisters are four real life sisters from the Cape who have great harmonies. As for the band sound, it’s mostly indie folk with a couple of upbeat tunes that could be lumped in as alternative. I caught them recently at the Burnside Park Concert Series and they pretty much killed it!

The Parkington Sisters will fill Fete with harmonies on October 18.

Cold War Kids

Cold War Kids return to town after playing the WBRU Summer concert series in July. Cold War Kids remind me a little of a more keyboard-infused version of The Strokes. As far as modern day radio alternative rock, Cold War Kids are one of the better acts out there. Check out their latest record, Dear Miss Lonelyhearts, but more importantly, don’t miss them at Lupo’s!

Cold War Kids will rock Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel on October 21.

Built To Spill

Built To Spill return for another night of indie guitar rock mayhem. Built To Spill have always delivered whenever I’ve caught them. Singer/Guitarist Doug Martsch shreds on guitar land; while the lineup around him has changed over the year, the intensity of Built To Spill live hasn’t wavered. It has been a few years since Built To Spill has released any new material, so it will be interesting to see if they’re road testing anything for a potential release. The band tours non-stop, so they’re guaranteed to be in fine form.

Built To Spill, Slam Dunk, and The Warm Hair rock the Met Café on November 6.

Email music news to [email protected].

Mike D’s Top Five Can’t Miss Shows of September Counting down the best concerts in RI

#1 Wednesday, September 4: 95.5 WBRU Presents The Dear Hunter (performing with a string quartet!). $9.95 advance / $12 day of. 7pm doors / 8pm show. All ages. The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. It’s been a long time coming for the return of The Dear Hunter to their sorta’ home base of Rhode Island! Since the last play at Club Hell (RIP), they have jet set over the world, recorded a concept record in “The Color Spectrum” in which the band interprets colors via music, and released the 2013 album that the band recorded with Mike Watts (?!!). This tour will highlight songs from their entire catalog and will be joined by a string quartet.

#2 Thursday, September 12: Spiritualized, Guy Blakeslee. $22. 9 pm. 18+ only. Paradise, 967 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA. I can count how many items I have had autographed in my 15 years of nightclub employment on two hands. If I ask, it’s because I absolutely love them. Only two of these autographs were not really in cursive, Jack White III (understandable as it’s not his real name and it was very early in the White Stripes’ career) and J. Spaceman (of Spiritualized and formerly Spacemen 3, and also not his real name). All of the band’s albums are critically acclaimed; Ladies And Gentlemen We Are Floating In Space may be the most of note, but my favorite is Let It Come Down. Let It… is the perfect combination of stoner shoe gaze, psychedelic rock n’ roll, and a touch of gospel. This band is fantastic live and certainly very recommended.

#3 Friday, September 13: Comedy Connection welcomes The Dan Band, Northeast Traffic. $22.50 advance / $25 day of. 6pm doors / 7pm show. All ages. Lupo’s, 79 Washington St., Providence, RI. This is the only band of the five shows I have not seen. I recently found myself digging through the crates for old DVDs to watch in the safety of air conditioning, and Old School got several repeat plays and was my introduction (as it was to many) to The Dan Band. This is a wedding band crudely reinterpreting the safe rock songs we never listen to, but thanks to commercials and shopping mart radio, know by heart. What the hell, why not give it a shot?

#4 Friday, September 13: Daughters, Doomsday Student, Deleted Arrows, Power Masters. Sunday, September 15: Daughters (2nd show added by popular demand), Black Pus, California X, Fantasy Panther. $13. 8pm doors / 9pm show. All ages. Both shows are at The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. Note: Friday is sold out, but there are still some tickets left for Sunday. Finally, the return of Daughters! After a four-year hiatus, Rhode Island’s experimental noise rock pioneers are back. The first show sold out in less than 36 hours. This is also the first show since the band released their critically acclaimed 2010 self titled album Daughters. Pitchfork.com called the record “a feast to be savored,” and the shows will feature a good portion of songs from this album. I like to think of it as a four-year-later album release party. Make it out if you can; who knows the next time these guys will creep back out of the shadows.

#5 Saturday, September 28: Girl Haggard (reunion), Hippie Johnny (Modern Lovers tribute). $5. 9 pm. 21+ only. The Parlour, 1119 North Main St., Providence, RI. The Parlour is a great place to see a local show. It has great bartenders and door staff, and more importantly, a Ms. Pac Man machine set to free play! It’s been a little over a year since vocalist Mandy took off for Providence’s seemingly sister city, Portland, Oregon, and I gotta’ say, I might miss Girl Haggard – a perfect mix of honkey tonk in the garage. And there is a Modern Lovers tribute opening, which consists of the members of the band Nolan’s Corner Pub – well worth the $5.

Alt-Nation: Say Goodbye to Summer with Labor Day Weekend Shows

Hope Anchor – Never Gonna Let You Go Hope Anchor are a gang of veteran rockers that came out of the gates a few years ago as an indie guitar rock band. Their debut record, Pile on the Dirt (75orLess Records), reflected this and was okay with a couple of decent songs, but nothing special. They were never a bad live band, but no band in these parts has progressed into a must-see live act more than Hope Anchor. Their new songs just have this extra thump, and yeah, they play guitar rock, but they put their own stamp on it. So needless to say, I was especially excited for their sophomore release, Never Gonna Let You Go. I was not disappointed.

On Never Gonna Let You Go, Hope Anchor take their juiced up indie rock and mix in a delta blues feel augmented by singer Paul “Pip” Everett’s harmonica playing. The blues is an ongoing theme in Never Gonna Let You Go as there is a brief blues segue between each song. More impressive is when Hope Anchor bust a barroom blues stomper like they do the first track, “Get Away Blues.” The second track, “Here We Go” returns to more jangling indie guitar rock that even has a horn section in the beginning of the chorus to go along with the tight hook. “Got to Be Alright” returns to the rock meets blues at sunrise for a duel feel, which one doesn’t hear much of these days. I guess one could throw John Spencer out there, but he does a completely different thing. Hope Anchor channels a little Blues Explosion though on “Getting Out,” which is the heavyweight in terms of rockers on the album. The stomping beat of “Reason” makes me think of Motley Crue’s “Shout at the Devil” if it was redone as a blues song. I wasn’t expecting a tune titled “Deluxe Pocket Knife” to be my favorite song of the bunch, but its fist pumping chorus refuses to be denied. “Deluxe Pocket Knife” is so good that it reminds me one of those songs I’d sit around waiting for to come on the radio so I could record it on a cassette tape when I was growing up. With Never Gonna Let You Go, Hope Anchor has succeeded in capturing the energy and excitement of their live show and getting it down on disc.

Hope Anchor celebrates the release of Never Gonna Let You Go at The Met Café on August 30. Neutral Nation, Benny Sizzler, and Tim Flynn’s Area 51 open the show. Doors are at 8 pm with the rock ‘n’ roll kicking off at 9 pm. The show will be filmed for the PBS series “Meet Me at The Met.”

Pat Benatar Pat Benatar was the tough mainstream rock chick of the ‘80s who always had a catchy tune that would prevent even the most fickle person, like me, from changing the channel. She may not have been as cool as Joan Jett, but then again, who was? One thing is for sure: there is no footage of her ever twerking some dude at the MTV Video Music Awards. Benatar’s catalogue is steeped in anthem-styled mega hits like “Love is a Battlefield, “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” “Invincible,” and many more. Benatar’s cover of The Rascal’s “You Better Run” was the second video ever played on MTV. At the time, it was chosen as a message to radio. Who knew that in 30 years, MTV would be all reality shows and radio would be dominated by talk radio with the bulk of the few stations left controlled by a monopoly that dictates stagnant playlists? This show is billed as Pat Benatar with Neil Giraldo, who is Benatar’s husband and has played on all her albums. I’m not sure who really buys a ticket for him, but I may have to check this show up! I’ve looked up the set lists online and this looks like one hell of a party! Get there early for local girl Malyssa BellaRosa who will be opening the show!

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will rock the tent at the Newport Yachting Center on August 31. Malyssa BellaRosa and Brian Scott will open the show. The doors are at 5:30 pm with Malyssa BellaRosa taking the stage at 6 pm.

The Mallett Brothers

The Mallett Brothers Band are a country rock outfit that hail from Portland, Maine. The Mallett Brothers Band recently released their third full-length CD, Land, which is chock-full of Yankee hillbilly thrills. Land kicks off with a wistful American groove, “Blue Ridge Parkway.” I hate modern country as much as the next urban rock ‘n’ roll brat, but something about The Mallett Brothers Band really grabs me. The boys rev stuff up on rockers like “Farmer’s Tan,” “A Little Bit of Mud,” and “Piece of Land.” The Mallett Brothers Band bring in enough elements of country, but when listening to a tune like “Goodnight,” they really just sound more like a straight ahead bar rock band, and a damn good one at that. The Mallett Brothers Band has always delivered in the half dozen or so times I’ve caught them live. Don’t miss them this Saturday at The Met!

The Mallett Brothers, The Silks, and The Denver Boot kick out the jams at The Met Café on August 31.

Supersuckers

Supersuckers are the greatest rock ‘n’ roll band. Just ask them. Sorry Mick and Keith, by the way. Okay I don’t agree with that, but I will agree that they’re one hell of a good time! Supersuckers mix in barn burning puck rock and country that is fierce. I’ve probably seen them a dozen times and have never left disappointed. Also of note for this show is the CD release for The McGunks as they unleash their new biscuit, Highlights for Lowlifes on the world. You can see the review in my previous column.

Supersuckers, Hellbound Glory, The McGunks, The Mighty Good Boys, and Dog Day Afternoon rock Fete on September 1.

Fuzz Fest

What would Labor Day Weekend be without a show full of feedback-ridden psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll? Machines With Magnets has a killer bill of this with some great local bands like Ex Reverie, Black Oil Incinerator, and Woozy, among others, bringing the fuzz! I caught Ex Reverie a few months ago and they’re one of my favorite new finds among the local music scene. If you like loud stoner guitar rock or psychedelic guitar squalors, this is where you want to spend your Sunday! Ex Reverie, Linear North, Black Oil Incinerator, Lady Osiris, The Invisible Hours, Woozy, CardboardCannons and High on Dracula will bring the noise to Machines With Magnets on September 1. The show starts at 5 pm with the music going all night!

Email music news to [email protected]

Alt-Nation: This Week’s Hot Shows

Slim Cessna’s Auto Club

In doing my column for the print edition, somehow I overlooked that Slim Cessna’s Auto Club were coming to The Met Café this Wednesday. This promises to be easiest one of the best shows of the summer! Cessna and company roll into the town for the first time since 2011. Their shows are always barnburners featuring a mix of country, rock, folk and gospel. It’s really a band that’s impossible to pigeonhole. When I interviewed Cessna in 2011, I asked how he explains his band to people who don’t know them. He laughed and said, “I stick with rock music because it would take too long to understand the other stuff.” Slim Cessna’s Auto Club started out in Colorado, but have since split to various areas of the country with Cessna taking up residence in Pittsburgh. Cessna did live for a couple of years in Cranston where he fronted a side project called The Blackstone Valley Sinner’s Club. That time in Rhode Island made its way into the Auto Club’s repertoire with tunes like “Cranston” and the ever show-stopping “He, Roger Williams.” The Auto Club remind me of a traveling dustbowl troupe of musicians that mine the deep roots of all things American music. They are also one of the best live bands of the past 20 years. Don’t miss them!

Slim Cessna’s Auto Club, The Sterling Sisters, and The ‘Mericans rock The Met Café on August 7.

Wheatus & Math The Band

Wheatus were one of those one-hit pop-punk wonders in the 90s that has managed to trudge on. Everybody knows the hit “Teenage Dirtbag,” but few other catchy numbers off that debut album. Wheatus isn’t going to go all serious or pull a Flaming Lips where they have one novelty hit and turn into everyone’s critical darlings. You’re pretty much going to get what you know as far as fun loud pop- punk with Wheatus. Math The Band from Boston is also one hell of a time as far as fast indie dance pop ‘n’ roll that makes this a very attractive show.

Wheatus and Math The Band will rock AS220 on August 7.

The Evens

The Evens are an indie rock band composed of Ian MacKaye on baritone guitar and Amy Farina on drums with vocals duties shared. MacKaye is, of course, a legend from his time in the seminal DC hardcore band Minor Threat and later with Fugazi. A diehard believer in D.Y.I. ethos, MacKaye founded Dischord Records, which has since put out many brilliant records through the years. Moshers looking for something similar from The Evens aren’t going to find it. The Evens come off as more an acoustic indie rock outfit. Still I have faith; Mackaye is a talented mofo and an engaging performer.

The Evens return to AS220 on August 9. Please note this is an early show with doors at 7:30 pm and no opener. The Evens will be onstage by 8 pm.

Foo Fest

AS220’s annual takeover of Empire Street known as Foo Fest will once again happen on August 10. There will be live music all day and night, indoors and outdoors, as well as the usual assortment of games, vendors, records and food trucks. The lineup can be a little hit or miss from year to year, but this is one of the stronger ones in recent memory. Among the local bands, I recommend checking out the garage rocking Atlantic Thrills, 70s tinged Clyde Lawrence band, roots rocking Dylan Sevey & The Gentlemen, the headed for certain doom punk of Lolita Black, local punk legends Neutral Nation, Vudu Sister, VulGarrity, Whore Paint, and even a Saint Jude reunion. At this time there is no big national headliner, but it does say that more acts are likely to be added. I don’t think Foo Fest needs one given the quality of local acts already booked. Foo Fest is always a summer highlight!

As220’s Foo Fest will take over Empire Street on August 10. The event runs from 1 pm to 1 am. The current list of scheduled performers is as follows: 14 Foot 1, Atlantic Thrills, Black Pus, Cannibal Ramblers, Clyde Lawrence Band, Downtown Boys, Dylan Sevey & The Gentlemen, Father Finger, Littlefoot, Lolita Black, Lunchbagg, Medusah Black, Neutral Nation, Saint Jude, Timeghost, Unicorn Hard-on, Vudu Sister, VulGarrity, Whore Paint, and Zukrewe.

Odds & Sods

Chain and The Gang, Ravi Shavi, and Pixels are at The Columbus Theatre in Providence on August 7. Psychedelic Clown Car is winding up their time of a band with a few last shows, including this Thursday, August 8, at The Met Café with Soma Nova and Comic Book Keith. Psychedelic Clown Car had a good run releasing over 50 CDs(!) during their weekly residency at The Spot. Singer/guitarist Matt Martin will be focusing his music efforts on his other bands, The Wippets and Lying Bitch & The Restraining Orders. The Nymphidels and Groundhawgs are at The Parlour on August 8. Sick Puppies, 10 Years, and Satellites Fall are at Fete on August 9. This is a big week for Satellites Fall as their new single, “Strange New Day,” is debuting on WBRU this week. Del The Funky Homosapien, Symmetry & Dox, Eddie Rap Life, and DJ Nook bring the hip-hop to The Met Café on Saturday August 10. Skinny Millionaires and Tall Tall Trees are at The Tavern on Broadway in Newport. Against Me singer/guitarist Laura Jane Grace comes to Fete on August 13 in an event billed as the “Transgender Dysphoria Blues.” Email music news to [email protected].

Melanie Lynx is Perfectly Flawed

By Tyler Curry

In March the dimSocialite headed to Firehouse 13 to get the low-down on American Idol contestant and local singer, Melanie Lynx. With a new music video coming out, DS caught up with her to get the skinny on the making of “Perfectly Flawed.”

American Idol finalist and independent pop recording artist, Melanie Lynx, reminds us why it is okay to make poor decisions in her second official video, “Perfectly Flawed.” Just a few days away from the premiere, “Perfectly Flawed” aims to inspire an inner confidence to the perfectionists of the world. Lynx took time off from her Naked Heart tour to chat with me about the meaning behind her newest single, and what it means to be perfectly flawed.

TC: Tell us what makes “Perfectly Flawed” different from the other songs on your EP, Naked Heart, and why we should stay tuned for the official video premiere.

ML: “Perfectly Flawed” is upbeat, as opposed to some of the other songs on Naked Heart. It embodies the sounds of the summertime – the electric guitar, for example. The video is really fun, too. It’s more mature and plays on a lot of the retro summertime trends you see in pictures and videos.

This song is meant for people who may be insecure… about anything. There are a lot of people who doubt themselves for not doing something perfectly. This song is supposed to tell you that, yes; it is okay to make mistakes, poor decisions and bad choices sometimes. We learn from those experiences. Experience is what makes us human. It’s what makes each of us so beautiful. You wouldn’t be who you are without it.

TC: Describe your experience from being on set at your first official video, “First Time” to your most recent, “Perfectly Flawed.”

ML: This time was a lot easier. I could pick up on the subtleties of how things worked. I felt much more comfortable under the light the second time. I feel like you can tell, too. In fact, some of my friends gave me similar feedback. Apparently I looked more natural in front of the camera this time around!

TC: Tell us about an instance when you embraced being perfectly flawed.

ML: I will always second-guess everything I write; but at some point you have to accept what your writing down and just own it. Continuously rewriting to perfection doesn’t accomplish much. The message behind “Perfectly Flawed” is about actually embracing your imperfections. When I write, it comes from personal experience. So, what you get is what you get. TC: What is the hardest part about being Melanie Lynx. What is the most rewarding?

ML: Melanie Lynx is independent pop – which I know is ironic. From booking gigs to production, I do everything myself. Not going through a label is confusing and risky, but exciting and extremely worth it. I can stay true to my own voice.

The hardest part is when people tell me my music is too pop. It’s tough when the indie scene says you’re too main stream, and you are still trying to break into pop music genre. It’s never in vain, because it’s really awesome when people come to the live shows are surprised at how much it rocked!

I’ve had people thank me for getting them through a hard time, and that’s amazing to hear. It’s a really special feeling I can’t describe. No matter how rocky the road gets, I can’t stop. I would not be able to do anything else, so I’m here… now and forever.

Lynx will debut the official music video for her newest single, “Perfectly Flawed,” this Tuesday, July 30th on Facebook. You can also listen to her EP Naked Heart at www.melanielynx.com or follow her on Twitter and Instagram for an inside look at life on the Naked Heart tour.

The Roots Report: Beat the Heat with Cool Shows Okee dokee folks … It’s summer. I would be remiss if I didn’t reiterate my feelings about it. I hate summer. I am sorry. I know many of you folks like summer. I am not a fan of the heat and humidity. Fortunately, we are more than halfway through. Music makes the summer easier to deal with – for me anyway. There are still a lot of summer shows to catch while the weather is warm, though sometimes “warm” can be a bit of an understatement. Onward.

The Downtown Sundown Series

The Downtown Sundown Series has been steadily gaining a solid audience, mostly by word of mouth. Every show brings more folks who are amazed by the talent of the performers and the beauty of Roger Williams National Memorial. Now in its third year, this music series brings free music into downtown Providence two Saturdays per month. Already this season, performers such as WS Monroe, Billy Mitchell, Malyssa Bellarosa, Kala Farnham, Mark Cutler, Heather Rose, Tracie Potochnik, Bob Kendall, Jesse Liam and Jack Gauthier, and others have graced the park stage with their wonderful music. The middle lawn at the Memorial is the perfect spot for a sundown show. The music starts at 7 pm and continues until 9:30 pm, and four performers are featured at each show. The audience members sit back in lawn chairs, lie on blankets or directly on the grass and enjoy some of the best singer- songwriters from the area. Picnickers are welcomed and encouraged. It could be a great start to a night out in Providence or as a complete evening activity. It’s a friendly and safe environment where children and well-behaved dogs can join in. This season’s last two shows are August 10 and 17, both Saturday nights. Emma Joy Galvin, Steve Allain, Aoife Clancy, Ed McGuirl, WS Monroe, Dylan Sevey, Mary Ann Rossoni and the Rank Strangers are scheduled. For more about the series, twilight to hearinrhodeisland.com Three Dog Night

Back when I was in fifth or sixth grade, I had a French teacher who taught us how to sing “Joy to the World” in French for a school assembly. No, it wasn’t the Christmas song. It was the song by Three Dog Night. At the time this song was a pretty big hit. Yup, do the math, it was quite a while ago. I heard their songs on AM radio and loved their sound. I also loved the band name. It was taken from an Australian expression that basically means that a “three dog night” is a really cold night. The colder the night, the more dogs the bushmen would sleep with. Being a dog person all of my life, I actually have had three dog nights! It hasn’t been cold here in months, but it’s the perfect time for a Three Dog Night. The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center (The Z) in New Bedford will present the legendary Three Dog Night on Friday, August 9. Three Dog Night songs have become part of pop culture with hits including “Joy to the World,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” “Black and White” and many more. Since forming in 1968, they’ve charted 21 Top 40 hits, seven of which went gold. Their well-loved songs, delivered in their unmistakable style, are still performed for audiences spanning generations by founding members Cory Wells and Danny Hutton on lead vocals, original keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon and guitarist Michael Allsup, Paul Kingery on bass and vocals, and drummer Pat Bautz. Tickets for the Three Dog Night show are $35 to $59 and are available by phone, online or in person at the Z box office. For more information, howl over to zeiterion.org.

Cherish the Ladies

The Blackstone River Theatre will present a rare summer concert featuring Cherish the Ladies on Saturday, August 3. The “Ladies” have grown from a one-time concert concept to an Irish traditional music sensation, literally the most successful and sought-after Irish-American group in Celtic music. Organized by folklorist/musician Mick Moloney and sponsored by the Ethnic Folk Arts Center and the National Endowment for the Arts, Cherish the Ladies began as a concert series featuring the brightest lights in Irish traditional music. Taking their name from the name of a traditional Irish jig, the group initially won recognition as the first and only all-women traditional Irish band. In a relatively short time, they soon established themselves as musicians and performers without peer and have won many thousands of listeners and fans of their music. With their spectacular blend of virtuosic instrumental talents, beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements and stunning step dancing, this powerhouse group combines all the facets of Irish traditional culture and puts it forth in an immensely humorous and entertaining package. For more, jiggle over to riverfolk.org.

The Small Axe Cafe

Nestled past the Fantastic Umbrella Factory gardens, attached to the Small Axe shop, is the one of the best-kept secrets around, The Small Axe Café. Every Sunday from 2 to 4 pm you can hear live acoustic music by local performers out on the patio (weather permitting). The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is just off Route 1 in Charlestown, a little past Ninigret Park. Head down and grab a bite to eat before or after shopping or beach-going and take a stroll through the garden near the Small Axe. Don’t forget to say hello to the animals, especially the emus! The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is located at 4820 Old Post Road in Charlestown. For more about this series; chop, chop, chop over to facebook.com/smallaxeproductions.

ConserFest

If you are into a bit of a bop across the bay, then you should get on board one of the Block Island ferries and get to New Shoreham for August 3 and 4. This is when ConserFest will take place on “The Block.” You can hear local and regional performers at Poor Peoples Pub, Club Soda, Captain Nick’s, The Fred Benson Town Beach Pavilion and Yellow Kittens Tavern. Scheduled for the fest are Brandon Morris, Homeslice featuring Travis Greenlee, The Max Balmforth Band, Bonfire Bandit, Kristin Plater, The Shades, Viennagram, Alex Brady, Mr. Kowalsky, Christina Holmes, Phil and David Turano, Frank Viele, The Johnny Lingo Trio, Cooper Rivers, Cheers Elephant, The Booze Beggars, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad and more. ConserFest’s mission is to raise consciousness for environmental conservation on Block Island through the celebration of music and art. The proceeds and donations from ConserFest events help support and fund non-profit organizations dedicated to protecting the natural environment. Through this annual music and art festival, ConserFest raises finances and awareness for land conservation and for the preservation of local heritage and culture. For a schedule and more info, float on over to conserfest.org.

The Towers

It may be cooler by the ocean, but The Towers in Narragansett makes the temperature rise every Thursday night with great music and dancing. Towers music coordinator, Kate Vivian, has a passion for good music and dance and presents weekly shows to share the love. Thursday, August 15, experience a unique combination of two-fisted piano, red hot trombone, blazing guitar, rock solid bass, powerful vocals and frenzied percussion antics when the Superchief Trio bring in their jump blues and boogie- woogie. Slippery Sneakers slides in on August 22 with Southwest Louisiana Cajun and Zydeco roots music. The annual season closer for The Towers Series is the Grammy Award winning Steve Riley and The Mamou Playboys on Thursday, August 29. Riley and his Playboys have delighted audiences with Cajun, zydeco and swampgrass for more than 25 years. For a complete schedule and more about the shows, two-step over to thetowersri.com.

The Narrows

The Narrows in Fall River is moving into the ice age. Well, not really, but sort of. Their state-of-the-art air conditioning system should be completed by the first week of August and it will be an even cooler place to catch live music, especially during the dog days of summer. Coming up on August 17 is Nick Lowe. Please go and tell me how it was; I would love to get to it but unfortunately, I can’t. It has been many, many, MANY years since I have seen Lowe in concert. I was very excited when I saw him on the Narrows’ schedule but, alas, I have my own gig that night. Nick Lowe has made his mark as a producer (Elvis Costello, Graham Parker, The Pretenders, The Damned), songwriter (“(What’s So Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love, and Understanding,” “Cruel to be Kind,” “So it Goes”), a short-lived career as a pop star, and a lengthy term as a musicians’ musician. But in his current second act as a silver-haired, tender- hearted, but sharp-tongued singer-songwriter, he has no equal. Do yourself a favor and go! On Friday, August 23, The Pousette-Dart Band hits the Narrows’ stage. Led by Jon Pousette-Dart, The Pousette- Dart Band carved a place in the landscape of American music in the 1970s. They were a mainstay of album radio, a favorite on the college circuit, and became one of the busiest touring groups in the US. If you remember hits such as “Amnesia” or “County Line,” you’ll definitely want to see them. Now this is where the idea of a Narrows’ bed and breakfast would be awesome. The following night, Saturday, August 24, the man who used to float around in commercials selling laundry detergent, but is best known for his flapper-era radio ditties, Depression-spawned ragtime and World War II folk-jazz Leon Redbone will be “tuning up” The Narrows’ stage. You can round out the month with a performance by one of the best banjo couples around. Béla Fleck and Abigail Washburn have mastered the deceptively intricate art of the duet and the banjo. Their performances embrace a diversity almost unthinkable coming from just two banjos and one voice. Washburn’s beguiling composing, playing and singing blend with Fleck’s riveting and virtuosic musicianship to create unique music. For more about these shows and more, claw-hammer your way to narrowscenter.org.

Summit Music Festival

For East-Siders and beyond, the 4th Annual Summit Music Festival will be held on Saturday, August 24 from 1 to 6 pm at Lippitt Park. This will be a fun-filled day of music, food and local crafts. Entertainment will be provided by The Stooges Brass Band, Marco Benevento, The Sugar Honey Iced Tea, Roz Raskin and the Rice Cakes, Extraordinary Rendition Band, and Emeline Easton. There will be activities for the children, a beer garden (don’t mix the two), food and craft vendors and much more. Admission to the fest is free and the rain date is August 25. If you want to find out more, climb over to sna.providence.ri.us/smf/

Becky Chace CD Release

The multi-award winning singer-songwriter Becky Chace will be celebrating the release of her latest musical offering, Rise and Fall, her tenth or so, on Friday, August 30, at Sandywoods in Tiverton. Chace told me, “Basically, we produced ourselves in our own studio in an attempt to use all of our knowledge to get our own sound and not something that a studio would influence; we feel as though what we got was honest and different.” Her long-time musical partner, Brian Minisce, was her co-conspirator on this project. Appearances by local musical luminaries such as Doug Woolverton from Roomful of Blues, The Complaints, Tom Petteruti of Brass Attack, Steve Allain, Sean Kennedy, Tom Hall, Jennifer Minuto all add spice to mix. Her own “new-ish” band members also contribute to some tracks with Eric Hastings on drums and Mark Minisce on bass. Sandywoods is a nice place for this show. You can BYOB and bring your own food and enjoy the show your way! For more about the CD and show, head “Downstream” to beckychace.com.

That’s it for now. Come on autumn!!!

John Fuzek www.johnfuzek.com

Mike D’s Top Five: Can’t Miss Shows of August #1 Saturday, August 10: Foo Fest 2013 featuring SSION, 14Foot1, Atlantic Thrills, Black Pus, Dylan Sevey & The Gentlemen, Littlefoot, Lolita Black, Neutral Nation, Saint Jude, Vudu Sister, Vulgarrity, Whore Paint and many more. $7. 1pm to 1am. All ages. Empire St. Providence, RI. Foo Fest these days to me is less about who’s playing when, and just going down to Empire Street and enjoying some of the best local food and bands that Rhody has to offer. Two years ago, Andrew WK put on the worst set I have seen from any national in years, but I still left walking on air from all the other great sets I saw. With 21 or so acts playing, there is something for everyone. The local band standout this year for me would be Littlefoot. Littlefoot describes themselves as dream pop / surf and remind me of Dum Dum Girls. Give it a year or so and they should be the best band in Providence.

#2 Saturday, August 10: Del Tha Funky Homosapien, Symmetry and Dox, Eddie Rap Life and music by DJ Nook. $10 advance / $15 day of. 8pm doors / 9pm show. All ages. The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. Deltron 3030’s self titled 2000 debut album is not only Del’s best outing, it’s arguably the best underground hip-hop album of the last 13 years. A concept album set in the year 3030 made by producer Dan The Automator (Dr Octagon / Handsome Boy Modeling School), turntablist Kid Koala (Loveage / Gorillaz), and veteran rapper Del was a flawless album beginning to end. Thirteen years later, the sequel is coming, Event 2, on October 1. Del says, “I don’t know if you could even categorize this as a hip-hop album, it’s more like a rock opera, but using rap.” Sign me up. This is the can’t miss show of the month. Hopefully, Del performs some of this new material, but regardless of what he does, his catalog is stacked. This show also marks the return of local rapper Symmetry performing sans his live band, but back to the old days with a DJ with Providence’s Dox. Eddie Rap Life opens and my dude DJ Nook is spinning all night.

#3 Friday, August 23: The Upper Crust, White Dynomite, TOTAL BABES. $10. 8 pm. All ages. The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. We might not be worthy. Boston’s premier princes of rock & roll pomp and circumstance, The Upper Crust, are back at it again and I am thankful. Part AC/DC and part Spinal Tap and maybe dressed a little bit like Jane Austin-era suitors, The Upper Crust rock and rule with no mercy. I am a big fan of onstage banter, and they bring the A game. Boston’s White Dynomite are a great blend of punk as influenced with a touch of soul and R&B (think along the lines of the New Bomb Turks) and feature future PCL / Death Hawk Hall of Famer John Darga. And this show also marks the debut of TOTAL BABES and claim to be “but rock.” That could mean many things, but likely that they are so focused on the rock they do not have time for the spell.

#4 Thursday, August 29: Diarrhea Planet, The So So Glos, Krill. $10. 9 pm. All ages. Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Ave., Allston, MA. Nashville’s Diarrhea Planet is my favorite band of the last year or two. I caught them for the first time at SXSW in 2011, and they shred live. They can go from heavy riffs in the vein of Jay Reatard to three guitars soloing as if they are Van Halen on the drop of a dime. I’m Rich Beyond Your Wildest Dreams drops this summer on Infinity Cat Records. For an introduction, I recommend going to watch “Warm Riding;” I imagine these dopes break a lot of bones. For advanced learning, check out “Ghost With A Boner.” No, really. Brooklyn’s DIY indie punks The So So Glos support.

#5 Friday, August 30: Hope Anchor, Neutral Nation, Benny Sizzler, Tim Flynn’s Area 51. $8. 8 pm doors / 9 pm show. All ages. The Met, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket, RI. Hope Anchor will be celebrating the release of their brand new album Never Going To Let You Go. These Providence music scene veterans are currently performing at the best I have ever seen them. “After playing many, many years and recording music, me and Terry finally get to put our own necks on the line and call the shots, and this is the crazy pay off!” says Hope Anchor’s vocalist Paul Everett. Providence punk rock stalwarts Neutral Nation and Newport’s finest Benny Sizzler will also 100 percent satisfy you, and the elusive Tim Flynn’s Area 51 open.

Alt-Nation: New Discs and Summer Shows The McGunks – Highlights for Lowlifes

Photo by John Capitão

It’s been a while since we had some new material from everyone’s favorite pub-punks, The McGunks! They did have a live album last year, but what the world really needed was some fresh new material from The McGoons. The McGunks give The Pogues a run for their money when it comes to drinking songs. That is cool, I like to drink. Highlights for Lowlifes kicks off in vintage McGunks style with “Bad Decision” about staying at the bar a little too long. “Beer and a Beaten’” reminds a little of The Queers with the harmonies. Singer/guitarist Bob Kadlec has a very gruff voice, but he knows how to use it. “Dead to Me” has a fist pumping sing-a-long chorus and a voice that gets you jumping. It reminds me a lot of the second album by Marky Ramone and The Intruders, The Answers to Your Problems, which was an excellent record despite my hatred for the wig man. The McGunks throw a curveball with the instrumental “Halfway to Hell,” which while an enjoyable punk romp, it’s debatable whether that would better be left as something to open shows with. “One for The Road” is a slower mid-tempo that has a tinge of a Supersuckers flavor. “Speaking of Crazy” revs thing back up while serving as an open letter to someone who is apparently bat shit loco. “The Devil Was Right” is a slab of just really well done punk rock and is my favorite tune of the bunch. If the McGunks view themselves as lowlifes, than this CD is very aptly named!

The McGunks CD release for Highlights for Lowlifes will take place at Fete as part of an awesome show that includes the world renowned Supersuckers, Hellbound Glory, The Mighty Good Boys, and Dog Day Afternoon on September 1.

The Silks – Debut 7”

The Silks released their debut release as a 7 inch and if you haven’t gotten a copy, welp, Houston, we have a problem. The pressing was limited to 300 copies with 80 copies on white vinyl and are almost sold out everywhere, so grab it if you see one of the few remaining copies floating around. The record is already fetching $40 and $50 on the internet. The Silks are a great band, but there is no doubt that having the producer, Paul Westerberg of The Replacements, sing the B-side may play a role in the incredible demand. The A-side is an original ditty called “Down At The Heel.” Complete with a mammoth chorus, it is one of the more rocking numbers in the band’s live repertoire and should serve as an excellent introduction to all those around the world that ordered the record for Westerberg. The B-side, featuring lead vocals by Westerberg, is one of my favorite Stones songs called “One More Try.” The Silks may play the song better than the Stones did on the original. My one critique would be that the original felt like a train that was always about to veer off the tracks but somehow, against all odds, makes it to the destination. The Silks and Westerberg do a great rollicking romp of it that I can listen to over and over. It’s just the near train wreck survival rush of the original isn’t there.

Big Big Shows!

Wheatus & Math The Band

Wheatus were one of those one hit pop-punk wonders in the 90s that has managed to trudge on. Everybody knows the hit “Teenage Dirtbag,” but few other catchy numbers off that debut album. Wheatus isn’t going to go all serious or pull a Flaming Lips where they have one novelty hit and turn into everyone’s critical darlings. You’re pretty much going to get what you know as far as fun, loud pop- punk with Wheatus. Math The Band from Boston is also one hell of a time as far as fast indie dance pop ‘n’ roll that makes this a very attractive show.

Wheatus and Math The Band will rock AS220 on August 7.

The Evens

The Evens are an indie rock band composed of Ian MacKaye on baritone guitar and Amy Farina on drums with vocals duties shared. MacKaye is, of course, a legend from his time in the seminal DC hardcore band Minor Threat and later with Fugazi. A diehard believer in D.Y.I. ethos, MacKaye founded Dischord Records, which has since put out many brilliant records through the years. Moshers looking for something similar from The Evens aren’t going to find it. The Evens come off as more an acoustic indie rock outfit. Still I have faith; Mackaye is a talented mofu and an engaging performer.

The Evens return to AS220 on August 9. Please note this is an early show with doors at 7:30 pm and no opener. The Evens will be onstage by 8 pm.

Baroness

Baroness come to The Met Café for what promises to be a heavy night of music. Baroness are a metal band that had an excellent release last year with Yellow & Green and they have an EP due out in July. Recommended cuts off Yellow & Green to check out include “Collapse,” “Psalms Alive,” and “Stretchmarker.” Don’t miss them this summer at The Met!

Baroness and Royal Thunder will bring the thunder to The Met Café on August 13.

Hope For Kyla

It’s awful to hear that anyone has cancer, but when it’s a 10-year-old, it’s just beyond crushing and all comprehension. Kyla is a 10-year-old girl who was recently diagnosed with kidney cancer. She is undergoing chemotherapy and radiation at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. The family is holding a benefit at The Last Resort in Smithfield. Despite the dour circumstance, this will be a good time with raffles, swimming, music and more! The greatest thrill will be the feeling you get contributing to this brave young girl’s fight against a crippling disease that nobody ever should have to face so young. For those unable to attend, you can still help out by going to http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/hope-for-kyla/62649 and making a donation. Thank you for whatever support you can offer.

The Hope For Kyla Benefit Concert will take place August 17 at The Last Resort in Smithfield. There will be a lot of live music with performances by The Ocean State Rollers, Able Thought, The Denver Boot, Loose Change RI, Time Bandit, and Courters.

Email music news to [email protected].

Not so Great Gatsby’s Visit to Wooly Town Dear Nick,

It was one of the days this summer that was neither raining nor hotter than Hades in August. I was taking the morning news in my usual way: reading The New York Times, watching Bloomberg and listening to NPR simultaneously. If you haven’t tried this technique, I highly recommend it. It’s like being put in one of those booths where the money blows around and you try to hold on to whatever you can, and like those booths I rarely hold on to any of the stories that envelop me, but I feel satisfied in my attempt.

Distracted by the number of papaya stones in my fruit salad (it’s unfair to eat fruit salad with mango, pineapple and papaya and call the seeds “pits.” Nothing can be the pits when devouring such a delight.) a pundit was shouting about Asian currency when the Motif phone chimed out, waking me out of my fruit-induced daydream. The request on the other end of the line asked that I check out the Wooly Fair and let them know what I found. I pondered the penultimate pineapple, picked up my pen and hit the street.

The only knowledge I had of wooly was the malapropism sung by Nuke Laloosh in Bull Durham. And armed with the information that women sometimes get wooly wearing that same shabby dress, I entered 351 Kinsley Street prepared to try a little tenderness. The maze of old mill buildings behind Harris Ave is difficult to navigate, but the juxtaposition of a lost era and the dawn of a new age. Trainless tracks pull up to loading docks that have been vacant since choo-choos made house calls. But inside something exciting and modern was happening.

The Wooly Town Fair happens August 16 through 18 at the Steel Yard in Providence in the same industrial maze as the prep area, but the Steel Yard is a bit more ready for prime time. There will be music and art and installation pieces, and the loose theme is a kind of temporary town, a utopian arts community that seeks to combine the artistic spirit and human innovation. The music and lights will all be powered by bicycle-powered generators, which is why the slogan this year is “off the grid and on the lamb.” What’s exciting about this versus your run-of-the-mill art and music festival is that Wooly invites, nay, encourages, attendee participation and is a hands-on, feet-shuffling, toe-tapping, finger- snapping full body and mind experience.

I saw the Woolies working with wood and whitewash, building what will become for one weekend a town of creativity and experimentation. In a world where even our “reality” television is scripted word for word, it’s refreshing to see a group dedicated to trying something new, something fun, all inclusive and inspiring. I think I’ll head down to the Steel Yard mid-August, old sport, to have some wool pulled over my eyes.

Yours Truly,

Gatsby

(Wooly Fair is 8/16-18 for more information and tickets: woolytown.com)

Alt-Nation: Stay Cool with Ice Balloons, Hockey, and Outdoor Beer

Ice Balloons Ice Balloons is a collaboration between Sean Kennerly of Samiam and Kyp Malone of TV On The Radio born in Brooklyn. The band will make their Providence debut tonight at Dusk and doesn’t appear to have anything out that I could find. Listening to them online, it’s not that far of a reach from TV On The Radio, albeit a little less mainstream. Should be a fun Tuesday with strong local support acts on the bill like post-punk/indie rockers in Hope Anchor and the fun-loving garage rocking Atlantic Thrills on the bill.

Ice Balloons, Hope Anchor, Atlantic Thrills, and Moniker rock Dusk on July 9.

Hockey

Hockey mesh indie rock with electronic to create funky groove that is perfect to shake your rump to on hump day. Hockey remind me a little bit of MGMT in terms of being infectious modern radio dance music. For those looking for a dance party to beat the heat, check out Hockey this Wednesday at Fete’s Lounge.

Hockey, Saint Motel, and Swimm will play The Lounge at Fete on July 10.

Burnside Park Thursday Music Series and Beer Garden

Summer’s here and that means time for the annual Burnside Park Thursday Music Series, which runs from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm most Thursdays. The music series is being curated by Jess Powers of Chanteuse fame and showcases a diverse spectrum of the local music scene. This week’s concert is a doozey with Mark Cutler and The Men of Great Courage set to rock across from the bus terminal. Throughout his long career, Cutler and his various bands have touched on everything from post-punk, garage, folk, straight up rock ‘n’ roll, Americana, and then some. The Men of Great Courage tend to have a roots-driven feel that is perfect for kicking back after work on a Thursday and grooving. For a full schedule of the Burnside Park Thursday Music Series, go to www.facebook.com/events/335816393214559.

Mark Cutler and The Men of Great Courage will rock the Thursday Burnside Park Music Series on July 11.

We Own The Land’s 3rd Annual Rock ‘n’ Roll Booze Cruise We Own The Land once again will take to seas to bring their thunderous rock to off-shore waters of Newport. As for a description of We Own The Land, think heavy rock meets punk wrecking machine. White Dynomite from Boston is one of my favorite newer bands that I’ve caught in the past year, and is a welcome addition to this bill. For tickets and more information, check out the event page here: http://www.newportmajestic.com/?page_id=2540.

We Own The Land and White Dynomite will take to the seas via Newport Majestic Cruises on July 12. The boat cruise will run from 9 pm to 12 am.

Northern Lands

Northern Lands keeps rolling on the momentum of their recently released debut, He Took a Dive (75orLess Records). Check out the biscuit if you haven’t already – especially if straight up rock & roll in the vein of someone like a Tom Petty is your jam. Northern Lands are also trendsetters right now as far as being the only local band to have their own beer named after them with Revival Brewing’s Northern Lands Lager at last check available at places like Met Café and Nolan’s Corner Pub. As a person who has had two beers named after him at Union Station, I encourage Northern Lands to keep up the good work!

Northern Lands, The Attending, and Nick Carr will rock The Parlour on July 13.

Scaling New Heights: A Benefit for RHD-RI

There are some benefit shows where the lineup is so weak and discombobulated that I’m left wondering if the organizers even care for the cause. That is not the case with the Scaling New Heights, a Benefit for the Resource for Human Development as this show is loaded with bands like Boo City, Lolita Black, Viennagram, and more that I’d go to just see that one band. As far as the Resource for Human Development, it is an inspiring place that is an arts-based day program for adults with disabilities. With the ongoing cuts in social services, benefit shows like this are vital for RHD’s survival. Come down for a great show for an even greater cause!

Viennagram, Lolita Black, In Heat, Boo City, and Mrs. Six Eyes will rock to support the cause at Dusk on July 13. The show starts at 9 pm sharp!

Ants in The Cellar

Celebrate Bastille Day and close out your weekend in style with Ants in The Cellar this Sunday at The Parlour. Ants in The Cellar actually trace their lineage back to the early to mid 90s, but after a few hiatuses, they’re back and ready to rage. Think straight-up guitar fueled indie rock.

Ants in The Cellar and Space Face will play an early show celebrating Bastille Day at The Parlour on July 14. The show is slated to start around 7 pm.

Email music news to [email protected].