Dayton Music

REVIEW: Legends Of Thrash Wreck Columbus

November 22, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Warbringer

On Tuesday November 5^th, The Legends Of Thrash Tour presented by Columbus Events Group swept through Columbus stopping at the Alrosa Villa like a sonic whirlwind as bodies crashed and collided into each other in the pit like a human tornado of souls.

LA’s young guns Warbringer brought the early battle cry with Germany’s Euro-thrash heroes Kreator screaming in at over 30 years of devastation and New Jersey’s green lit thrash veterans Overkill, who’ve been on a screeching bat-winged blitz-krieg since 1980. Tonight was stop number seven on the twenty-four date North American Tour.

It’s a double fisted metal spiked, thrash hammer to the face and guitar shredding to the ear as Overkill continues touring in The Electric Age and Kreator brings America the Phantom Antichrist. With Warbringer unleashing their new October released Warbringer IV: Empires Collapse on the state capital, they’re promoting their new video for Black Sun, Black Moon. Filmed in the forbidding desolation of the Mojave Desert under pitch-black nightfall, Black Sun is a vintage highway throwback to Judas Priest.

The war begins as they open fire with the razor-sharp riffs and cutting edge technology via science of the hunter-killer, the Living Weapon. The pit opens immediately as we wake into the nightmare of Severed Reality staring into the black murky void before us. John Kevill hand chops the crowd samurai style summoning their energy ready for a throat-slicing good time. The Turning of the Gears is what we hear tonight but for them it’s day after day, year after year. When it’s over John Kevill’s yell, John Laux and Jeff Potts’ guitars will still be stuck in our ears. They tear across the dusk lit illusive highway under the mystic fading blaze and rising glow of the Black Sun, Black Moon. Scars Remain from the pit of inner pain, as you’re Living in a Whirlwind of addiction and mother nature’s metal fury. They break out classic Exodus, Sepultura inspired Combat Shock. As Laux and Potts throttle blasted their guitars, Kevill called for one more pit before the show ended. Want musical pestilence, famine and conquest, Warbringer cometh.

Kreator

Kreator bathed in a feast of strobes, coming forth as Mars Mantra played, opening with the obliterating Phantom Antichrist and conjuring up a pit at will. “Destroy this f*@&er!” Mille Petrozza yelled, starting From Flood Into Fire and harnessing the energy from all sides. Columbus, The Kreator has returned! They bring out the madness of the Reich on Warcurse, splitting the crowd in two, preparing the biggest pit of the night. Counting to four in German he wanted to see what a floor wide Ohio Coma of Souls circle pit looked like, in return they gave us Endless Pain. Are you ready to kill? Are you ready to kill, each other… Pleasure to Kill. It’s everyone against everyone in the Hordes of Chaos, a Necrologue for gladiators and ‘pit’ fighters alike.

Petrozza shreds, reveling in the roaring feedback before calling for a dance floor thrash pummeling Riot of Violence. Purity and innocence are killed by the Enemy of God. A paranoid Phobia forms, is someone following you? The Patriarch roars over its metal family warning of Violent Revolution. Sami Yli Sirnio plays the acoustic into United in Hate. Let there be darkness tonight with the Civilization Collapse.

Petrozza brings the flag of Kreation on stage, waving its emblem high and proud. They tease Billie Jean’s bass intro and drums on Painkiller before finishing with Flag of Hate and unleashing the Tormentor. The Kreator will return!

Overkill

The legendary East Coast wrecking crew, Overkill, opened old school with Deny the Cross. We get modern-day Ironbound with Bring Me the Night. Blitz asks for/demands crowd noise, he’s got “f*@&in’ high standards, you better f*@&in’ remember that sh!t.” We watched them shake and bake with the Electric Rattlesnake and got knocked on our ass like a Hammerhead via 1985. Blitz grins announcing “it’s an old school f*@&ing show tonight. You motherf*@&ers get uglier every year” because Columbus is Rotten to the Core! From the back alleys and street sludge of Franklin County, welcome to the mother f*@&in’ gutter! Ohio’s one hell of a metal state and together we’re strong, together we’re Ironbound!

Wrecking necks for over 30 years with 16 records, 2 live albums, 2 DVD’s and a video-documentary; you know they’re doing fine, basking in the light of the Necroshine. The days Horrorscope said, Thanx for Nothin’ so take a trip with the pale rider at midnight to Overkill and seal your fate. Time to quit fuckin’ around and pay attention, long ago and far away like a runaway train the record was called The Years of Decay. Time for some E-limination!

Encoring with Horrorscope, Skullkrushers worldwide know when you go see the ‘kill and it’s time for the last song, you don’t wanna sound like a pussy. Columbus, we don’t care what you say, F*@& YOU!

Photography by Samantha Stewart.

REVIEW: Mushroomhead Bring 20 Years of Halloween Havoc to Dayton

November 15, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

What’s cooler than one of Ohio’s own, Cleveland’s masked men playing doomsday in December last year coming back the following October and playing Halloween night? Dayton was the third to last show on Mushroomhead’s 40 date fall tour with returning vocalist JMann. Though mother-nature brought the rain and winds of fury, postponing several little demons and dragons’ stroll through candy land and once again darkened a few house lights, McGuffy’s House of Rock was packed and celebrating All Hallows Eve under the influence of Mushroomed metal.

Halloween, All Hallows Eve, Pagan New Year, Samhain and the night before All Saints Day. The harvest is over and the winter/darker half of the year begins. The name meaning ‘hallowed’ or ‘holy’ evening has origins in both Christian and Pagan history. To any devout horror or heavy metal fan, the 31^st is definitely the scariest day of the year and deserving of all day worship. Even mask-wearing, heavy-breathing, knife wielding, silent fictional slashers deserve their own day too.

Forces of Nature

Dayton hometown heros Forces of Nature started the hallowed evening. Last year’s lone Armageddon playing partner to the headliner. Notwithstanding what mother-nature was doing outside. Forces played their patented Pantera meets Slayer mid-pit stomp pounding the piss out of each other sound, ripping open the metal kegger with the face smashing Magnus Lee. Tate Moore’s voice has the devil sandpapering his vocal chords. Since the Apocalypse didn’t happen on schedule last year, they decide to court global danger and play a heavy, angry, defiant song about it with a few guitar licking tastes of Morbid Angel for extra heavenly hierarchal rebellion.

ASOT (As Seen On TV) rips out Udo Dirkschneider’s soft vocals ramming them down Tate’s hoarse, coarse throat, and together they make beautiful music along-side Marc Godsey, Jimmy Rose’s ripping guitar-flesh playing and Johnnie Wallace’s vampiric bass blood wallop. Of course any foursome of metal beasts are lucky to have a fair beauty among them, and the drums are pleasantly hammered by metal matriarch Shannon Godsey. The Godsey’s were also celebrating their 23 year anniversary.

The second showing of local support comes from Dayton’s self-made Moshpits & Lighters creators, In The Cut, led by event marketing mastermind Daniel DeDoncker. Breaking right into Killswitch Engage’s Until the End, they’re each a silent army of one and collectively sold out McGuffy’s with all local talent.

They play a song about all the assholes, particularly the ones out on Halloween doing stupid sh- (present company excluded). Here’s some Hatred Divine. Aaron Noble poured out the power on keys with the black eyes of Alice. He also broke out the skull and bones keyboard decor using two freshly pulled spines courtesy of one ugly motherf-….. They finish with a fun, fan friendly dip into the 80’s rock power ballad vault singing Separate Ways. There were a few zombies onstage that just happened to be in the band and the night couldn’t end without a cute and innocent love bite amongst monstrous brothers. The end also marked a first time event as DeDoncker stopped mid-song announcing McGuffy’s owner Julia’s birthday.

The Xmembers

Next up, from the birthplace of the Mushroom, comes the answer of what Quentin Tarantino in a heavy metal band would sound like. The X Members are birthed in musical freedom, bathed in whiskey and bred to destroy. Self-described as a beautiful train wreck of punk, rockabilly, metal, swing and hard rock, they’re greasy, mean and good at it too. Comprised of current and former members of Cleveland talent Pitch Black Forecast, State of Conviction, The Missing, Keratoma and Horror Madonna, they’re equal parts Astro-Creep mixed with Horton Heat.

They opened with the fast, twitching high impact Swinging Neckbreaker. Whether demon alcohol fueled or play acting, singer Elliot Barry does the zombie stagger a bit too realistically. The musical head-bobbing concussion begins with a trip down the devil’s highway burning up the whisky fueled roadster. It’s Quarter To Three and time for some Seltzer’d rockabilly metal and a few hotrod smoking streaks from Ministry with the hard crunch of oiled up bike chains and greasy gears. Ladies, in the sweetest of southern (Cleveland) sincerity, they want to see your special F Hole, and they’re willing to play with hardcore punk speed, serenading with the most mosh friendly tune a bunch of cowboy hat wearing, slick styled, metal hillbillies from up north can play on Halloween, if you’ll be so kind to oblige. Just like Anthrax, they’re startin’ up a posse. Indrid Cold is a hard hitting, bass thump’n return home if Slayer, Buck Cherry and The Black Crowes were born in the same place.

Nothing More (Than a Dream) cruises down the road with a silver skull on the shifter, slick backed hair in the wind and a cigarette smile heading to the Black Flag show. It’s a windmill mosh pit come to life. Antemorten Overdrive cranks out the smoke induced haze with some skeletons from the closet riding shotgun in the Jesus built hotrod. Everyone’s got a Dirty Little Secret, they just choose to scream about theirs turning it into an amped up merry go round of punk chain fisted southern charred horse power.

The X Members are a blood drenched wild-west biker gang movie on stage. From dusk till dawn, they play their mosh pit twang faster than a hole in the wall one night stand in the making can pound down Jager, Jack and Jim and feel coyote ugly in the morning. They were also celebrating their tenth show in ten days with Mushroomhead.

Xfactor1

Columbus’ XFactor1 is American blue collar passion and intensity with a second to none with do it yourself attitude and an unquenchable desire for success. They open with Break You. Singer QBall is dressed for the evening in metal surgical scrubs ready for the scalpel and some bloodshed. With a sound combination of Hellyeah, Seether and Shinedown with hints of Staind and Creed, they Bring It On with every show, with deep dark powered background vocals, clean strong lead vocals and a muscle bound hard rock sound stringing the metal carrot at the audience.

The rap rock POD power punch of Parasite could blare over any PA system as a fighter walks toward the octagon. They finish with a classic cover because everyone wants to be like the Rolling Stones and Paint it Black.

Austin based co-headliner One Eyed Doll arrived onstage with the evening’s playful animated playmate, skeleton boned Kimberly Freeman. She’s your friend to the end, but ‘she’ won’t kill you…yet. Formed in 2007 with Jason ‘Junior’ Sewell on drums, they’ve toured the country playing a unique brand of rock, punk, metal with vaudeville humor and stand up slapstick encompassing an all-around entertaining show. Freeman and Sewell have released five OED records with creepy comedic videos for You’re a Vampire, Envy, Committed and Be My Friend along with a special 90 minute gonzo tour rockumentary on YouTube. Freedman’s been featured as Revolver’s hottest chick in Hard Rock in 2011 and 2012 and is listed in Guitar Player Magazine’s top 20 most extraordinary female guitarists. She also has four solo albums under her name with Sewell producing and is a real life character in the game Adventure Quest Worlds.

One Eyed Doll

Alanis Morissette with the dark side of Smurfette and a twitter of Tinkerbell, Freedman resembles a sweet swirling mixture of what made Babes in Toyland, L7, Courtney Love and the Cycle Sluts from Hell so alluring to kids and enduring to concerned mothers everywhere. With a raw performance style of The Great Kat and voice ranging from high pitched innocent girl next door to loud feminine roar, she’s her own switchblade banshee donning many hats on stage, including a cowboy and the pope. The demented dolls open with Committed. Freeman, the Chelsea grinned painted princess playing the bad seed asylum escapee roaming the empty roads and backwoods churches in search of her sanity. She could be a sideshow freak or a lost child of the corn.

Unbeknownst to many but the few they’re secretly an easy listening, smooth jazz, hip-hop, contemporary Christian, Kenny G inspired band. In fact the next song was covered by Celine Dion and Michael Bolton also appearing on the soundtracks of Titanic, My Little Pony: The Movie and Passion of the Christ. Crowd chants of Hail Satan were acknowledged but not endorsed by Freeman. So in honor of these musical/movie influences they get ‘Dirty’ with the Black Sabbath/Slayer inspired Plumes of Death.

Crowd participation from Dayton, Texas was needed and politely demanded for the next song. They brought out fellow misunderstood friends Michael Myers and some dead guys borrowed from The Walking Dead. Their show and message is all about friendship and just like touring bands and axe murderers, serial killers are people too. “If you take away the voices I’m just like you. I’ll hack you up and bury you in my yard. So why does making friends have to be so very hard?” She led the crowd though the hardcore metal, country twanged Yee-Haw sing along first verse. The second verse conversed about religion as Freeman sported His Holy Eminences’ head gear proclaiming our two choices (you’ll be forced or converted either way) Amen or….Hail Satan (despite the crowd’s heavily biased dark side, only half-heartedly endorsed by Freeman).

They finish as she proclaims her true calling and identity as a dedicated woman of the metal law threatening to arrest anyone (with a show of horns in the air) who wasn’t metal. It was time to Break… the law One Eyed Doll style with slow motion hard ramming speed. She finishes crowd diving, surfing her way back to the merch booth.

Next, the Cleveland masked men return after playing and escaping the Mayan apocalypse to play Halloween celebrating 20 years of shroom-influenced metal. They open playing heavily from XX and XII, going straight in for the keyboard lobe shattering mind hemorrhage and religious confusion playing like dog faced gods. The leeches and the lepers in the crowd start to salivate as the predator stalks its prey preparing to Kill Tomorrow.

We take a mind expanding music tablet trip and get Bwomp’d on history’s leaders and who’s trying to control us. Would we be better with the convicted maniacs in charge, creepy crawling the country forward? Ever been offered candy by a water drum playing human Borg reindeer? Only on Halloween.

Mushroomhead

Mushroomhead count their blessings, being around/fan supported for 20 years and counting. They’re fed up with the status quo and ready to fight and kill for what they believe in. Do you really wanna f- with a band that looks like that tonight? The Sun Doesn’t Rise at all until the past is put behind.

We take a slower ballad like breather as they Save Us from the flawed masterpiece of humanity. There’s only one way, forward. Inner torment, pain and memories fester inside bleeding your life away, Never Let It Go. Everyone has their own cards to play in life and the inner struggle of good VS evil, right and wrong and what you choose to self-deal.

Everyday life takes its toll on the road, Becoming Cold, missing home. They dedicated The Dream Is Over to lost friend and original guitarist JJ Righteous and called for a pit in his honor.

They encored, changing faces to pumpkin grins and maniacal cut out smiles filling the empty spaces on the floor with some Floyd, proving that every successful band with staying power is Born of Desire.

Forces of Nature photos courtesy of Tom Wilson.

All other photos courtesy of Nikki Forte Design & Photography.

REVIEW: Katz Goes Aces High on Halloween

November 6, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Aces High take the stage at Katz (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Saturday October 25 the Pre-Halloween bash was going full scare all over Dayton. Katz in Kettering trumped everyone bringing in Aces High, ‘The’ Iron Maiden tribute band playing homage to metal’s scariest and coolest mascot, Edward the Great. The night’s Yankee played British invasion included two, 90- minute sets with a costume contest in between and plenty of grisly ghouls, a major French Kiss and some very lovely iron maidens.

Aces High pulled out familiar classics, crowd favorites and a few vintage tunes. Bathed in the vibrant green illumination of Osiris and eye of Horus, they start the evening’s maiden voyage to Egypt walking the sands of time as the names of ancient hailed deities are whispered through the air, telling us why we have to be a Powerslave and a slave to the power of death. Well, you know what they say, if you’re gonna die…. Die With Your Boots On! We get another nicely sliced Piece of Mind as dawn breaks above the ground. The only escape is air-born on your wings like an eagle, fly as high and touch the sun with Icarus, yeah. 11:58 came early at 10:19 with the glamour, the fortune, the pain. For anyone who doubts the power of Maiden, we’ll show the unbelievers. They’ll go anywhere, even Bavaria Where Eagles Dare.

French Kiss (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Singer of all things Dianno and Dickinson, Tony Oliver said hello to the crowd and costumed incognito members of ‘French’ Kiss. “The fake Kiss came to see the fake Iron Maiden,” he quipped. We get our first Number of the Beast, walking along-side the doomed Children of the Damned. We skip ahead a few years to the late-eighties and get cultish with old creepy Crowley with the seven deadly sins, seven ways to win, seven holy paths to see Aces High as the first song from Seventh Son begins. Then they return to the beginning, since no one brought their daughter to the slaughter they play the next best thing, the blood red instrumental about Dracula’s home turf. Speaking of old-school Killers, they play another Dianno drenched bloodlust tune.

We take a time warp forward into an Eddie’fied future but before we’re caught in time we have to go back to the golden coast across the seven seas and search for those Wasted Years. You might need a Clairvoyant to find them. Back to killers in the literal sense as we get pseudo Poe’d in the Rue Morgue. Whether it’s the Rue Morgue, Mockingbird Lane or the Whitechapel district, we’re Caught Somewhere In time. Time catches up to even the greatest of legendary man, even Alexander.

As the band rested, the creatures of the night have their moment in the spotlight. A robust personal trainer, some iron maidens, Joker and Batgirl, the Mighty Son of Hercules and his queen, the ‘French’ Kiss, a straight jacket laced zombie and a solo feminine Gene Simmons among others rounded out the party guests. Though French Kiss had the bread and Pierre, crazy’s always in and the insane zombie won the night.

Aces High (photo by Mike Ritchie)

The Book of Revelation opens as the ominous voice of Barry Clayton reads its verses: “Woe to you, oh earth and sea, For the Devil sends the beast with wrath, because he knows the time is short, let him who hath understanding, reckon the number of the beast, for it is a human number, its number is six hundred and sixty-six.” The song partially inspired by Omen II starts its epic intro and iconic scream. Sticking with the beast we are labeled number six by the new number two but we proclaim our freedom as free men, not a Prisoner. We get medieval in Egypt witnessing the swordsman seeking vengeance. Flash of the Blade is Oliver’s first Maiden song performed on stage. Dario Argento also used it in his 1984 film Phenomena.

The condemned is waiting in his cold cell when the bells begin to chime, at 5 O’clock he’s taken to the gallows pole. The sands of time run low and he doesn’t have much time. Iced Earth, Cradle of Filth and Machine Head have each taken the walk. Hallowed be their names. Churchill rallies the troops for war, they shall defend their island and fight…everywhere, whatever the cost may be, and never surrender. Aces High lives to play the opener from the legendary Live After Death Tour. After the fighting’s done we head down to Acacia Ave for some well- deserved decadent debauchery.

Aces played an impromptu fan request of Good Times Bad Times before connecting with some Infinite Dreams. Then go straight to Boleskine House for some Sacred Magick rituals to bring about Revelations. Then we hear the most epic song written by metal heads, inspired by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. We’ll never look at birds the same way again. Five minutes later the stage is sprayed in laser light and smoke as the ship sails wayward. The timbers stretch and creak as the captain spins his tale of strange happenings followed by one of the coolest bass lines…ever, from Randy Gaines and the tale goes on and on and on.

We go from a seas tale to the Crimean War and battle back to back with The Trooper. Even the Mighty Son of Hercules and his fair lady worship at the stage of Maiden going crazy for The Wrathchild. The Evil That Men Do lives after them; the good is oft interred with their bones. So says mighty Caesar. We finish the evening with the iconic show closer of confrontation between Indians and Anglo-Saxons. Run To The Hills, run for your life!

Oliver thanked the crowd for coming as they only do a select amount of shows each year. He thanked the band, Dave McCarty, drummer Brian Harris and guitarist Dan Briley for upgrading/sprucing up the stage design and props and there is… no Iron Maiden tribute without Randy Gaines. Till next time, scream for me Katz in Kettering, scream for me Katz in Kettering!

That 70’s Night Hosted by ‘Del Boca Vista’

November 6, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

No disco, but lots of cool ’70’s singer/songwriter music performed by numerous local musicians. Get dressed up in your best bell bottoms and enjoy the groove!

Featured craft draft includes:
Ithaca Flower Power IPA Two Bros Heavy Handed IPA
Two Bros Heavier Handed IPA
Revolution Anti Hero IPA

Featured musicians:
Meghna & Aaron (6:00-6:40pm):
Michael DeMonico (6:50-7:30pm):
Del Boca Vista (7:40-8:20pm):
Chris & Jamie Suttle (8:30-9:10pm):
Jonathan Hamilton (9:20-10:00pm

REVIEW: Club Panama Hosts 8th Annual For Love Of Sonny Juvenile Diabetes Fundraiser.

November 2, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

On Friday October 4^th and Saturday the 5^th for the eighth straight year Susie Maynard and Springfield’s Club Panama have held the annual For Love of Sonny benefit show honoring her son that passed away from juvenile diabetes and raising money, awareness, knowledge and community support for disease research. This year’s event brought in over $1,300 which will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Prizes, raffles and auctions were held both nights featuring gift cards from Fazoli’s, Rudy’s Smokehouse, Red Lobster, Roosters, O’Charley’s, Cousin Vinny’s, Golden Corral, Cracker Barrel, Frickers and Olive Garden. Beth’s City Salon and Keg N Kork Liquor also donated prizes along with two chocolate cakes, Jell-O shots and sugar free cupcakes made by Janeen Naugle. This was the only sugar diabetics are able to eat and patrons were invited to try one. Over $150 dollars was also donated by Abby Rowley Execute Director of www.facebook.com/ShadesofPassionandRomance and www.abbythefunlady.com.

Other popular spirited prizes included a bottle of Crystal Head Vodka and a half gallon of Jagermeister. Two high quality Viking pool sticks were donated by Donnie Propst , a Bud Light cooler/speaker system and homemade candles by Jessica Wallace. Featured auction items included two dream-catchers handmade out of bass/guitar strings by Springfield artist Nan Mitch of Nan’s Daydream Designs. Other contributors included Joel Naugle, Jeremy White, Heidelberg, Bobby Fisher Distributing for the event banner, Tod Panstingle for MC’ing the raffle and auctions and Shaffer Amusement & Vending.

The weekend show featured 12 bands performing an eclectic collection of music from rock, metal, electric acoustic and unplugged with bongos and a standup bass. Local talent included Element of Surprise, TBH (This Blessed Hatred), Fletcher Munson, Blackout Method, National Headcase, Killed By Art, The Defendants, Mothers Onion, Dead Beat, Gathering Mercury, Silver Skull and Abrade The Regal.

The Element of Surprise (photo by Mike Ritchie)

The Element Of Surprise is always a good advantage and handy weapon to have on the battlefield of music and war, but the Union Ohio benefit openers proved a ton of screeching, screaming noise head on can be even more devastating. The four man noise bashers gave the stage its first coat of sweat and dirt of the weekend, giving the crowd a little early evening dose of Regicide-Ragicide followed by Facebook/Reverb track “By Myself.” Singer/guitarist Brett Wheeler crushed boundaries immediately jumping stage into the crowd bringing them closer into their elemental Ssssnakepit.

Troy’s Fletcher Munson has experimented with sound and pitches on their own, paying homage to their audio term, test namesake, also claiming they’ll be the least heavy band of the evening, but…. they DID listen to Bolt Thrower and Suffocation on the way there. Even though they open Penny-less, it’s for a great cause. An empty bottle of gin can lead to broken noses and broken hearts as the ole Ball & Chain explains with a bluesy, jazz, jam band sound, a bit like Social Distortion gone country. Crystal puts on the shades, shimmering like a boozed up recording session between Foo Fighters, Skynyrd and Blues Traveler. It’s a two guitar onslaught with bass and drums hard but mellow with a few whisky shots of heavy sound. We get an acoustic country twanged hangover with our only friend, the Ragin’ Alcoholic, no coffee just moonshine in the cup.

Springfield sons TBH (This Blessed Hatred) feature 2 bass players for that extra deep throated chord pounding as Chad Whaley’s cement coated throat spreads a heavy shellacking on the crowd. Delivering a darker, angrier Alice in Chains sound accompanied by bassist Jared Hooten’s red haired Erik Rutan appearance and sub guitarist Tim Estep’s finger playing, delivering a double thick wall of thudding sound, they start down the Dark Path with strong bass drags, twisting chords and frantic, frenetic fretwork. The Dead Seed is planted for the next death harvest. The night got sophisticated with some moody bass and atmospheric Death meets Joe Satriani with some great sax on guitar, along with pummeling tempo with guitar expressionism and experimentation. Think jazz room mosh pits straightening up, taking a breather to enjoy the finer slower parts then moshing again. There’s a murky light in the distance walking through the mist to find safer ground. It’s a 100 fists smashing sound effect with strange Morbid Angel erratic, cathartic notes and alarming effect. Technical playing with an Opeth sound and Rush on metal guitar.

Now for some groove metal from the armpit of the Midwest, National Headcase, Dayton’s answer to a jam band consisting of Mastodon, Down and Red Fang. Welcome to the Fallout opens with Chris Porter’s spoken word growls encompassing a more frantic, busier Crowbar sound with guitars having the all engines go on full Motorhead charge with freight train riffs. Continuing with Burning at Both Ends from their 2011 demo, it’s Alice in Chains on full prescription adrenaline with guitars that could split and rise up pavement, break out the concrete sledge. They go old-school on Brother’s Keeper playing some gasoline guzzling bearded brutality with a shovel headed kill beat. NHC is a drunken fist fight over the last beer music. Oracle lets the industrial hammer pummeling begin with stage shaking corrosion, finishing with the circling Vultures ready for the blitzkrieg swoop and devour scavenger hunt.

Mike Defendant (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Another of Springfield’s pride and joy, Blackout Method came out swinging with some cool hard rock/metal covers with plenty of Rage, ready to kill diabetes in the name of Sonny and everyone else fighting for a cure and ready to throw down and Break Stuff to prove it. They got the crowd up and dancing to some sweet angst and Sugar courtesy of the System. After giving the crowd a nice Shinedown, we get Face to the Floor with Chevelle finishing off the Rage with the Bulls on Parade.

Friday’s headliners Killed By Art finished the late evening, early morning marathon. All they Ever Wanted was to make you happy. History proves, it repeats itself, so learn from it. Karma comes around for everyone so make it good. They played one of singer Kim Weiss’s favorites, One Last Bomb with its tribal Congo beat continuing into Roots’s swampy guitar groove. KBA also played new tunes Trouble and Dark Hero finishing up playing the numbers game with Clutch.

Saturday’s show started with Mike Defendant, the guitar playing, singing rebellious half of acoustic hardcore punk duo The Defendants. Defendant brings a one man acoustic jam to the stage playing the strings with more force and power than the instrument was built for. He plays Broken Mirrors about the evils and issues of government regulation carrying a street musician cred singing some solo social commentary. Kick the government when they’re down! He drives to speak the truth like his protest artist hero’s before him like a new age old-school throwback to the 60’s musical revolution. He threatened to pull a ‘GG Allin’ to close the show but there were youths in the crowd. He sings a sad song about a girl that tried to go to LA to see the Ramones but never got there, damn hooded hoodlums.

Gathering Mercury (photo courtesy of Mike Stacey)

Dayton’s Gathering Mercury played its first full band acoustic set with new bassist Jack Green on the standup along with two acoustics, two bongos and a stomp box. Giving listeners’ eardrums another cool dose of unplugged as I Give opens with Miss Stacey’s sweet husky voice, becoming the hard acoustic riffed Fixation of everyone there. Softer strung Give in to Me was followed by new tune Aamona and Bliss. They Break us out of the mercury trance finishing with final new tune Carousel.

The second night of metal begins with the unique chill of winters early embrace and the echoes of the forest seeping from Mena Popp’s keyboard. Franklin’s Deadbeat is a mixture of loud screaming metal, keyboard metaphor/ambiance and some sinister killer lyrics about the dark fantasies that some people have but would never ever do. Smoke poured with the creepy keyboard notes as Deadbeat needs to be seen to be Believed. Singer/guitarist Scott Wilson has a strong Randy Blythe inspired fury and focus, ferociously growling/screaming lyrics with a wide-eyed pissed off enthusiasm. Popp’s hands glide over the keys casting spells through the speakers taking listeners to the darkest parts of the forest for a special bonfire witches dance on the Sabbat. Sawed Off will make you laugh, cry and make your insides feel all fuzzy, right before they’re removed with a body truck chug pace. You’ll be ripped limb from limb with raged cruelty, body parts sawed off in your face with a masochist’s war cry. The blood reign continues with a short tribute to Slayer/Jeff Hanneman (RIP) as the blood rains down so bow your head and bang in reflection and respect as the keyboard growls. ‘Your Head is Mine’ yells Wilson with an evil grin as he prepares to unleash Daddy’s Little Psycho. Hell hath no fury like daddy’s little girl slightly agitated stalking in the woods with a stained pick axe surrounded by Euro horror movie music by Popp. I Murder rings out the basement psycho warning alarm before the lotion can be applied or hacksaw meets face. They finish with the thrash march of the walking dead on keyboards and the New Born King.

Englewood’s Mothers Onion is an eye watering cool collection of covers and originals. They break out the STP applying some elbow grease and Vasoline in case anyone in the crowd was getting Cumbersome. They peel out an original about The Night the Rain Came then pay homage to Bon Scott with some Springfield deeds done dirt cheap. They’re Never Gonna Stop raising money in Sonny’s name cranking out some Zombie then take a ride with Dr. Feelgood before drawing the Ace of Spades, but that’s the way they like it baby and don’t forget a jack and coke for Lemmy. Time for another original about all those Things You Say then pour some Gasoline on the guitar, Voodoo Chile style with Jimi. They leave us with a hard Godsmack to the face the Rocky Mountain Way.

Silver Skull (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Now one of the weekend’s highlights, with over 300 shows already under their bullet belts and a combined age of 33, the brothers Endres: 19 year old guitarist Josh and 14 year old drummer Justin of Silver Skull took the Panama stage as their own playing a solid, mystifying blend of black metal tinged with thrash and speed. No need for bass, Josh makes most of those sounds come out of his guitar with a deep, guttural, speaker vibrating feel while Justin plays the kit like a human mosh pit with Bonham strength and Peter Criss presentation. The crowd rose, edging closer watching the awe inspiring duo tear up the stage. With faces painted shiny bone pale, they’ve taken corpse paint to its most decayed form. Justin stands as the eerie intro plays raising horns praising Dimebag, Dio, Steele, Schlundiner, Hanneman and all metal gods that have passed on to the big stage in the sky. Josh pulls no punches opening with pure in your face Annihilation, the speakers and our eardrums are already Suffering but smiling. Straight from the netherworld’s depths comes the Hellbound Hate into the delicately brutal beginning of Destruction before the killer chugging and unholy spirit trapped in chains screeching/growling begins. If Slayer spilled the blood, Silver Skull Spread The Blood with crimson noise gushing from the guitar as Justin symbolically gives ceremonial blood rites. Josh gives the hair one more air windmill whiplash playing a solo straight to the Immortal gods of dark metal. Heavily influenced by Chimaira, they’re a two man, arena band that’s opened for Overkill, Obituary, Sepultura, Death Angel and Soulfly among many others. Destined for guitar god mastery status and drummer of the year/decade The Endres brothers are both experienced and professional at a very young age, if you book them, they will come.

The weekend for Sonny finishes with Springfield’s Abrade the Regal thrashing it out with some early Sunday morning loud grunge draining the last bits of predawn energy Club Panama had left. They took to the crowd, standing on tables, wailing on guitar in true rock star fashion cranking out Release, Erase and the dirt pit riffing of Nothing to Say. You can’t Walk Away from its soft tender notes/rocking melody without remembering it. For the eighth straight year Club Panama, all performing bands and benefit participants have Screamed at the World to help fight JD and find a cure. Their spirit and will Can’t Be Broken, and Sonny, they’ll continue the Fight for You.

Gathering Mercury pic courtesy of Mike Stacy.

Show Planning On Making Community ‘Feel The Beat Of The City’

November 1, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The universal language of drumming has many layers to it. The rhythm and beat to drumming is beautiful, exotic, and spiritual. For some cultures, drumming helps with the lines of communications within their group or other tribes. Some cultures see drumming as a way of healing. For most folks, hearing the rhythmic drumming symbolizes good times, and have individuals gather around to dance with another, laughing, smiling, and being carefree. Places like the legendary city New Orleans will have groups of drummers play in the streets all day and night. These type of events that Peter Benkendorf and the group The Collaboratory got the idea that will come to life this Saturday night at Courthouse Square in Dayton. The affair is titled Drum Dayton-Feel the Beat.

The Collaboratory is part of Benkendorf’s own group which he founded, Involvement Advocacy. Involvement Advocacy was born in 1992 in Chicago, and the mission was to provide citizens the opportunity and resources to address systemic challenges facing the community, by providing frameworks for new possibilities and collaborative action. According to Involvement Advocacy’s website, they are fostering imaginative, pioneering, civic engagement and community building initiatives that touch on issues ranging from public housing and urban renewal, to the arts and the environment, from youth development and cross-cultural connections, to technology advancement and community gardens. “We really want to get everyone back to coming out and really supporting this great city”, Benkendorf explained. “This city has a lot to offer and we want people to witness that themselves.”

Drum Dayton will be presenting drum lines, drum groups, individual drummers, and collaborations, followed by a community “drum circle”. The goal is to present the elegance of communicating through drumming, and present to attendees the rich history and splendor that drumming offers. “We wanted to have everyone come and see drumming that they haven’t witness before”, Benkendorf said. “We want people to maybe even get influenced to the point that they maybe would like to get involved in drumming.”

The tentative schedule for Drum Dayton is:

4:00 Chaske Hotain Native American Drummers

4:30 Joseph Glenn Steel Pan Duo

Baoku Moses

5:00 Michael Bashaw’s Bamboo Stick Orchestra

5:30 University of Dayton Drumline

6:00 Wright State University Percussion Ensemble

6:30 Baoku – Nigerian Hand Drummer

7:00 Dayton Phil. Orchestra Percussion Trio

7:30 West Side Drum Corps

Dakota 3DI
Dayton Young & Gifted
T.R.S.S. Drumline

8:30 DrumDayton Collaborative

9:00 Community Drum Circle

Don’t worry, food trucks will be at the event all night for those who develop a hunger of watching the show. The vendors who will be there are:

• McNasty’s

• El Meson Express

• Horseless Buggy Eatery

• Courtland’s Mobile Grill

• Sweet Eats

Drum Dayton will be providing the community a shot of fresh life that will once again give the people in town even more reason to say that they live in one of the best cities in the United States.

For more info, click on the event Facebook page here.

‘The Spark’ Ignites Kevin Heider

October 27, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

‘Patience is a virtue’

The quote above is more than just a phrase. It’s something that most of us try to live by. It is hard to patient.

Remember when you were a kid, and it was Christmas Eve?! You placed a couple of chocolate chip cookies on a plate, along with a half-filled glass of milk on a table near the Christmas tree. The sweet treat was for the jolly man who would shimmy down the chimney and drop off presents for you and your family. Your mom and dad would tell you to head to bed, and you would just lay there-wondering when he would arrive. Late in the evening, you would tip-toe down towards the tree just to see if Santa arrived earlier.

How about going for a job interview, and being told that you will be called within a couple of days. This is the job that you have been waiting for since you can remember. All the time you stayed in, studying your craft when you could have been out and about. Putting in the extra work to make sure that when your name is called on, you were going to be ready to roll. Now you have met with the one person that will make or break this dream. Days feel like years.

It’s those moments in our lives that make having patience extremely difficult. I will admit-I have struggles with being patient sometimes. When it comes to one of my favorite bands releasing new music, I can’t wait to get my hands on it. It happens to all of us at one time or another. You get excited. You can’t wait to see what will happen. However, we have to understand and come to grips with that whatever is supposed to happen will happen. We have to remain calm and cool and the endgame will be worth it.

This was the mindset that Kevin Heider had to have when he was courting his wife. “It took me four years to have go on a date with me. (Laughing) Four years!” Heider says to me during our sit down together recently at Ghostlight Coffee on Wayne Avenue. “She didn’t think that we could work, and she was coming off from a relationship. I just had to wait.” Heider would make subtle comments along the way, making playful remarks from time to time, mentioning that they are perfect for each other. Heider was never pushy, though. He knew that patience was in order. So after four years of waiting and wishing, the day finally came. Heider finally got that date and the rest is now history.

Kevin Heider is a hometown boy that is starting to get his feet back on the pavement here in town after recently living in the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. area for a couple of years. For the past few years, Heider has been traveling the United States, playing music full-time. It was living in this area where he would meet the future Mrs. Heider. As much as he enjoyed living in the area, the Dayton area just calling him back. So Heider came home for the holidays. The move back home quickly became a no-brainer for Heider and his new bride agreed. “I always loved this city”, Heider says he slipped on his cup of coffee. “It would take me over an hour just to meet up with friends who weren’t far away from me. It was nice for a while, but I really wanted to get back home. When we came to see my folks, my wife feel in love with the city also.”

Heider recently released his newest double album, The Spark back in March of this year. His first album To Whom It May Concern was released in 2009. The acoustic piano album provides a warm, heartfelt view of the world in his eyes. The following year The Salzburg Revolution came out. This album started to feature what is now Heider’s indie rock/folk sound. In 2011, Ready, Set, Become… dove into the good and bad that is involved with families.

Recorded in Innovation Studios in Steubenville, Ohio, The Spark is the biggest album that Heider has done to date. He dives into the human spirit, with the first half of the album diving into the dark side of a person who is dealing with some dark undertones. ‘St. Brigit’s Fire’ is a fantastic Irish drinking song that should be added to all pubs around the United States. One of the most powerful songs in the first half of the album is the bonus track ‘The Spark (A Reprise for the Folks in Newtown)’. “I was in the studio when it all was unfolding”, Heider talked about when describing the unfortunate events that took place in Sandy Hook. “I was like everyone else I am sure-completely horrified with what was unfolding. So I went into the recording area and just starting playing. I didn’t think much of it while I was recording it, but it turned out wonderful.”

The second half dives into the individual having a ‘spark’ fire up inside them, and finds the beauty and love in the world. Some of the songs are actually pretty personable to Heider, for they are footprints from his life. ‘Lonely In St. Louis’ starts with an acoustic guitar then builds to a crushing rush of guitars and organ play as Heider talks about not wanting to wait to see his love. ‘Girl from Frederick’ explains his wife and his first date. The French horn and mandolin add a beauty to the song that is written and ready to be placed in a romantic comedy. Overall, the album is blistering with full-fledged folk rock to be sure to make everyone who enjoys national acts like The Lumineers and Phillip Phillips will for sure dive into The Spark with pure enjoyment.

Kevin Heider is about to embark the road again after getting married and settling in back home in Dayton. Has I have learned from talking with Heider, and hearing about being on the road, meeting his wife and waiting for her to go on that first date-he’s not afraid of being patient.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvf4yJ6FLjc&feature=c4-overview&list=UUd7leBNe07u-xTBkFj_mhOg’]

REVIEW: Red Moth Records Swarm of Talent Infest Oregon District

October 24, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

I Died Trying (photo by Mike Ritchie)

On Friday, September 20 Red Moth Records took over Blind Bob’s for an evening of nightmarish stylistic mental flossed loud metal, some heavily metaled influenced hard rock and some unique 70’s rock throwback instrumentals. Red Moth mates I Died Trying, Mangrenade, Bearer of Bad News and head honcho Close the Hatch played an entertaining bill of uniquely diversified sound along with Kentucky’s Bad People.

Dayton’s answer to the sound of a mental ward’s subconscious I Died Trying opened the rainy night with two songs, rapturous in sound and nearly impossible for the brain to decipher on first listen. Eerie guitar suspense sends us traveling down an old west road as the sun sets as the strings fight each other to the death and the weather beaten outlaw stands in the dirt ready to kill. Hell’s intercom opens for a three way conference call electric screamfest. Tony Goff’s guitar proves instruments can have souls, playing music to satisfy every personality a person could have. Napalm Death meets Nile with NIN and Godflesh in a barroom brawl adding moments of unnerving tranquility to pleasant insanity. The music’s a challenge for the mind’s ear to interpret but less difficult than trying to make sense of the mind in Goff’s bald, bandana wrapped head. These are The Things We Think and Do Not Say.

Swallowing Swords has a jazzy beginning with Goff playing violin, opening with those creepy insomniac eyelid chords as the mind walks a tight rope between skyscrapers with no balance beam, finishing with some bizarre hooks of 80’s guitar solos. IDT is like punching someone in the face full force with your brain, putting it back in and closing with a bad sewing job.

Bad People (photo by Mike Ritchie)

From Lexington comes the multigenerational influenced loose morals of Bad People, who almost didn’t make it due to mother’s nature’s pissy mood, but nothing stops a dedicated band from a gig. The instrumental foursome took turns giving audience face time playing high energy, solid blues, modern progressive rock with a jam band feel and solid song structure. HQ 1 has a happy jump up and down good hearted feel. Tool meets Sabbath then Soundgarden in the classic 70’s rock arena, keeping the pedals busy with a hard snarled note swagger. They play the majority of their upcoming CD (to be released in October), finishing with HQ 2 blending elements of 60’s psychedelica with Rush and a more technical take on Opeth with some space age rocket ship trip blasting effects from the machines.

Cincinnati drunk rock Mangrenade is as metal as it sounds…for a band that doesn’t play it. They’re a selective punk pastry with influences from Lenny Kravitz to Sabbath with some Rage Against the Machine/Alice in Chains experimentation. Playing three cuts off their newest EP Lions in the Parking Lot and two from January’s More Than A Handful EP. Godless Heathen has the guitar driven Kravitz rock groove. Where Swagger Turns to Stagger is an inebriated dirty street chugger played to collapse with an early Sabbath guitar sound all over the pile of discarded bottles. There’s some peppered C.O.C. in Deep Cut’s Soundgarden of 70’s sound. I’m the One carries some Cobain like shrieking with its rockabilly punk Henry Rollins angry rebellion attitude, taking a breather half through to calm down. Lions in the Parking Lot roar with a Misfits charm, bass groove and whisky wailed vocals. Bassist Ben Morgan is a short haired Steve Vai with glasses. They also might be the first band to inspire an interpretive dance pit on hardwood as select patrons performed gymnastics, ballet moves, summer salts and breakdancing during the set.

Bearer of Bad News (photo by Mike Ritchie)

From the spawn left from the urban decay and industrial rot inhabiting downtown Dayton cometh Bearer of Bad News. Covered in diesel, dust and blood red tattoo ink they create raw, abrasive, angry and loud sounds because this is the life they live and the music that’s inspired them. Their sound mutated from the likes of Motorhead and Biohazard with some Chrome Division exhaust inhaled a bit later. On video Brian Brenner’s rasping deep tirades take the form of a muffled straightforward Glen Danzig, live Evan Seinfeld, Cronos, Udo Dirkschneider and Dez Fafara take ripping hold of his vocal chords.

The basement door closes as the muffed sounds of what’s never talked about is heard from the basement as Black Top Blues starts shoveling basement backroom dirt in your ear and some hard gravel embedded guitar chords down your throat. Don’t look in the corner.

Like the Priest’s slowly deliberate bass pace gives the pit brethren a pit break. The Blame Game blends the Cavalera Conspiracy with some railroad power chords and chain-gang riffs. Bearer of Bad News carries a hard glove studded wallop and strong underground sound (some of their videos are shot in claustrophobic unfriendly basements). 2012’s Triple Homicide and Involuntary Manslaughter EP’s are available on iTunes or at shows.

Close the Hatch (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Red Moth Records artists and founders Close The Hatch came on to deliver the evening’s final abrasive set of cathartic musical misanthropy. Guitars, keyboards, drums and a keytar (yep) bring this moody, broken glass menagerie of concocted sound and abysmal bliss to fruition. Their sound carries that feeling of dark trapped ecstasy right before your face gets ripped off by Cenobite hooks.

A sadists pleasure of growled vocals and face stretching sound of metaphorical noise. Songs about dark dreamscapes in the mind and the last remaining fragments right before waking. Kali starts, going back and forth with its brain erasing sound erosion quickly changing to kinder more gentle chords before repeating a few times. Beyond the Wolves starts with a creepy dripping cave dance along dark buried walls. Right before the stalking intruder meets the fire red narrowed eyes of his demise. Stephen Barton growls out the beast’s fury as he plays chase on guitar. People have been known to slam-dance into walls at their shows, and themselves. There’s also some surprise classical music played against hell’s roaring guitar choir. The closing 11 minute Wolves plays some clanking off notes reminding you of the sound the wind makes when hitting old strung bottles and cans outside that forgotten cabin no one should go to. We get into sludgier sound as the warned visitor opens the rotted cellar door descending into the bad, dark memories that wait around the corner. Close the Hatch resembles a chainsaw turning on in the brain.

‘Don’t Slip’ on Dip Spit

October 19, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

You are a person that enjoys music that is light to the ears. When you are having dinner with that special loved one, you light the candles on the table and softly start that smooth music that only seals the deal of making the night perfect. How about this-you are person that enjoys soft rock. You are at the doctor’s office and you start to Michael Bolton belt out love songs. C’mon, you enjoy it. You try to hide it. You scoff at the fact that you are sitting there listening to someone who lose their cool whenever he is on the television. I’m not a fan, personally, but hey-the cat has fans.

Well…this isn’t going to be that type of music listening.

(Photo Courtesy-Jennifer Taylor Clarke)

Two men comprise the hip hop duo Dip Spit, and they are about to drop their names in the music scene’s hat with their first LP, Fight Music for Boot & Fist. DipSpit, and DJ DumptRuck make up the band (their actual names have been made to be a secret). They started their bond for music when both of them attended Wright State University. They attended some of the same classes, including some poetry sessions. DipSpit moved to Chicago where he followed his love for poetry. “It was really amazing to be around all those poets”, DipSpit explained. “There would be poetry slams that I would attend that really were out of this world with how quickly folks could make up such amazing work.”

After a couple of years, DipSpit became unhappy with being in the hustle and bustle of the Windy City and decided to come back home. When he returned, he started to write music and would showcase it with DumptRuck. In return, DumptRuck would also supply music. “We had a blast making music for one another. We would always be trying out stuff for one another. The twosome even would reveal that they have been creating music for the past four years. “We didn’t think about it”, DumptRuck says when asked about not releasing the music. “We were just cool with only having it for ourselves.”

However, the pair realized that they have some really good work that they felt would be good enough to possibly be released. So, they started to slowly hitting the open mic circuit, with mostly performing at that now recently closed down RnR Playdate, which was held weekly on Sunday nights at One Eyed Jacks in Fairborn, Ohio. “We really felt like we really had a home at that open mic”, DipSpit declares. “We really developed our stage presence there.” The crowd reaction to each of their sets grew more and more appreciative to their unique presence and unique show. Both men hit the stage with such bravado and swagger. They throw every ounce of themselves into their show. DumptRuck’s plain white t-shirts that have a hand written statement written on them quickly become soaked with sweat. Dip Spit is a mildly quiet guy till his heads touch a microphone. He then turns into a fast-spitting lyricist that immediately gets the crowd into the show with him.

A year will be removed with the release of Fight Music for Boot & Fist. Dip Spit isn’t made for everyone, and the duo is well aware. Their lyrics dive into the pool of fun and carefree immaturity. Some would quickly think that the band Tenacious D had some part of this in the way of influence. What really stands out, however, is the music that accompanies the lyrics. Both Dip Spit and DumptRuck cite that have dove into the vast collection of hip hop from the early beginnings of its introduction into the music world. Run DMC, Eric B. & Rakim, Public Enemy are a few of the artists that they grew up listening to. The album itself contains a bootleg feel that is perfect for these two. The titles of the songs themselves also will give the listener the impression that this duo doesn’t really take things seriously, including a sampled Dropkick Murphy ‘Shipping Up To Boston’ in the first track ‘Hulk Hogan Sex Tape’. However, when you dive into the LP, you quickly realize that the guys are in fact taking their craft seriously. It’s a fine line of just goofing off and presenting polished work. Dip Spit manages to have their cake and eat it too. As I mentioned earlier, the music isn’t made for everyone. The duo even will tell you that it isn’t. However-you can’t help but let go and enjoy this offering. It’s almost genius.

Four years in the making, Fight Music for Boot & Fist will be released for the masses in all its glory and Dip Spit, DJ DumptRuck are proud of the work that they have done. “It’s been a long time coming, and we are excited to give the people this album”, Dip Spit says.

Dayton-Dip Spit has arrived. You have been warned. Or has the band always says-“Don’t Slip.”

This Saturday night, Dip Spit will be also celebrating their new work by throwing their event, Fist Fest 2013. Alt-Country/Punk Rock singer Christopher Salyer, the amazingly talented Trey Stone, and Indie rockers Monkey with Bone will also be performing at Oregon Express along with the duo. Showtime is at 9pm. To hear more of the band, click here.

Coming Up in Local Jazz – October 9 through October 22

October 8, 2013 By Ron Gable Leave a Comment

Who is Clay Greg Abate?

Greg Abate jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer continues as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 225 days a year touring the globe.

In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years.

In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to ’87.

Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.

Greg’s newest release The Greg Abate Quintet features Phil Woods, Jesse Green, Evan Gregor and Bill Goodwin.

Greg is a true International artist and has been touring through South West Ohio twice a year for as many years as I can remember and I always make a point to catch him. This Thursday, October 10th Vectren Jazz & Beyond will partner with Cityfolk, to present their seventh event this season (more here) featuring Greg Abate and The Lee McKinney Trio in the Dayton Art Institute’sShaw Gothic Cloister from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. In addition to the Art Institute Greg will be at the Blue Wisp in Cincinnati two nights with the Phil DeGreg Trio, a jazz & arts brunch at Coco’s Bistro in Dayton and at Spinoza’s in Beavercreek playing the latter two again with the The Lee McKinney Trio.

Jazz Central Big Band with guest Ken McCoy

Last Thursday evening seventeen players from our general area and one very special guest assembled at Jazz Central to perform for a painfully small audience. They played a number of arrangements by Ken McCoy, formerly of the Jazz Ambassadors, that totally thrilled the listeners. I challenge you to find a three hour live performance anywhere for just $5 that can compare. It’s amazing to me those artists, who are among the best and aren’t even making gas money continue to show up. Listen to me, when I tell you, you’re missing something very good and it happens on the first (Jazz Central Big Band) and third (Generations Big Band) Thursdays each and every month. Same applies to Gillys or wherever – so much excellent entertainment going to waste so to speak. What I’d like to get across is if we want to continue having good jazz, we need to get out and support it when it’s available, you won’t be disappointed.

Jazz Calendar

Here are some (not all) of the upcoming jazz events for the next couple of weeks:

Today Wednesday, October 9 – The Dave DeWitt TRio with Randy Mather is at Natalie’s Coal Fired Pizza in Worthington, OH.

Thursday October 10 – The Dayton Art Institute presents their seventh Vectren Jazz & Beyond event featuring Greg Abate and The Lee McKinney Trio.

Friday October 11 – Greg Abate with the Phil DeGrge Trio is at the Blue Wisp and iBig Groove – Melodic Music for Piano , Bass and Drums with Kim Pensyl is at Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant both in Cincinnati.

Saturday October 12 – Greg Abate with the Phil DeGrge Trio is at the Blue Wisp in Cincinnati and Randy Fankell and the Jazz Militia is at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dayton.

Sunday October 13 – Greg Abate and The Lee McKinney Trio is doing a jazz & arts brunch at Coco’s Bistro in Dayton.

Monday October 14 – Mark Flugge, Derek Dicenzo & Jimmy Castoe is at Due Amici in Columbus.

Tuesday October 15 – The Part St. Tavern Jazz Jam features Tony Hagood Quartet plus Pete Mills in Columbus.

Wednesday October 16 – the Eleven piece Different Hats Band is at the Dayton Event Connection and Blue Wisp Big Band performs in Cincinnati.

Thursday October 17 – The Generations Big Band returns to Jazz Central and Greg Abate and The Lee McKinney are at Spinoza’s in Beavercreek.

Friday October 18 – The Shaw Stanley Trio plays at Carvers Steaks & Chops in Centerville and JC & The Rowdy’s Blues Jam is at Jazz Central in Dayton.

Saturday October 19 – The Chris Barrick Quartet is at the Cincinnati Public Library Atrium in Cincinnati and the John Von Ohlen Trio is at Dee Felice in Covington, KY.

Sunday October 20 – The Jazz Jam Session with Kenny Baccus is at Jazz Central in Dayton and Bluesbent is at the Blue Wisp in Cincinnati.

Monday October 21 – The John Taylor Trio is at Brio Tuscan Grille in Beavercreek and Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra is at the Clintonville Woman’s Club in Columbus.

Tuesday October 22 – Tony Monaco is at the Rumba Café in Columbus and Jazz Cab continues at the Greenwich in Cincinnati.

More info and jazz listings can be found at JazzAdvocate.com

2013 Dayton Music Fest: 5 Bands To Checkout During The Weekend’s Event

October 4, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

In 2004, the Dayton music scene was comprised of tremendous acts playing all around the town each and other night. Problem was there were folks who lived in town that still didn’t know just how good the music was here. Dan Clayton, Andy Ingram, and Shawn Johnson went to work and they wanted to showcase the extravagant talent in a unique way. Thus the Dayton Music Fest was started. Going in its 9^th year now, Dayton Music Fest is now in the hands of Dayton’s own Don Thrasher and Kyle Melton. The two have assembled 32 acts ready to perform in various locations throughout Dayton for Friday and Saturday night. Each set will undoubtedly give the crowds that fill the venues a diverse collection of talent that shines brighter than most cities. Here are 5 bands you need to check out. For some, these acts are staples. For others that haven’t seen these acts-you are in for a treat.

Noah + The Rescue Radio

Outstanding blues guitarist Noah Wotherspoon has built quite the resume, developing a following all around the world with his performances. He also has opened for Leon Russell, Latimore, and Boz Scaggs. Wotherspoon has multiple appearances at the Chicago Blues Festival, The Blues Masters at the Crossroads Festival in Salina, Kansas. He has now expanded his mastery of blues and has added Tom Rastikas on bass and Josh Johnson on drums to make up Noah + The Rescue Radio. The band’s lo-fi sound will feature influence from ’60s British pop/rock along with Wotherspoon’s signature guitar play. Noah + The Rescue Radio will be performing at Canal Street Tavern, which will suit the band’s style just perfectly. Showtime is tonight at 11.

Tim Pritchard & The Boxcar Suite

Tim Pritchard and the Boxcar Suite’s shows are a music lovers dream. Their jangly sound present a little bit for everyone. Fans of country and fans of rock will come together in unison with the incredible guitar play from Pritchard himself, along with Tony Moore and bassist Phil Caviness. The lyrics of the songs according to the band are ‘bittersweet and beyond’. You can see and hear for yourselves at Canal Street Tavern Saturday night at 10:30pm.

Red Hot Rebellion

For those who to catch a set from a group that are low-key, chilled out-you aren’t going to find it with Red Hot Rebellion. You are not going to get anywhere near that. You will be witness to a band that play at a frenzied pace, with no know having their shirts dry. This punk/metal hybrid, Ramones influenced band will be thrashing the stage, giving the audience all the more reason to rise up and let their hair down. For the faint of heart-you may want to stay away. For those who want to rock-get yourself down to Blind Bob’s on Saturday night. Showtime is at 10:30.

Meghna & The Majority

We can’t forget the ladies that will be highlighted during the Dayton Music Fest. Meghna & The Majority’s sets have included mind- blowing renditions of Adele’s Skyfall and Florence and the Machine’s Dog Days Are Over. Don’t be fooled, however. The band will also play originals that will be infused with jazz, country, and folk. Meghna’s lyrics dive into her relationships from the present and the past, good and bad. Each lyric sung oozes bluesy tones. Meghna & The Majority is perfect for all ages to sit back and enjoy. Catch them 1pm Saturday afternoon at the Midwest Outdoor Experience.

TEAM VOID

TEAM VOID has recently released their second album ‘Robot Killer’, which is full of their vintage, surf rock sound. These Luchador- mask wearing quarter are simply a pleasure to listen to. Nothing but instrumental play, expect to be dazzled with an onslaught of seamless guitar play and superb horn play. TEAM VOID will be nothing like you have ever seen. The masks will unquestionably throw off newcomers to the band, but will quickly forget it once you start to hear the band play. The band will be closing out the night at Oregon Express on Saturday around midnight. Perfect timing for their set.

Admission for all the shows is $10, and $5 for any one venue. For more info, click onto www.daytonmusicfest.com.

Club Panama Rocks for 7th Annual Juvenile Diabetes Benefit

October 2, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

For seven years Club Panama owner Susie Maynard has held the For Love of Sonny Rock 4 A Cure, a juvenile diabetes fundraiser to raise awareness, educate and honor her son who passed away in 2004 from the disease. Maynard has owned the club for over 25 years, giving several area bands their start including ShovelHead, National Headcase, Devium and Mother’s Onion. In 1994 she was dubbed The Mother Of All Rock by the Springfield News & Sun. Panama was also one of the only clubs at the time to give original local metal bands a shot.

The club has received several awards from the JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation). Over 3 million people die annually from the disease and it’s the leading cause of kidney failure, blindness, amputations, and a major factor in heart attacks and strokes, among other conditions. It’s a physically debilitating disease and no cure has been found.

On Friday October 4th and Saturday the 5th, 12 bands from Dayton and Springfield will volunteer their time and talent to help support the cause. Friday’s lineup includes Element of Surprise, Fletcher Munson, Blackout Method, TBH (This Blessed Hatred), National Headcase and Killed By Art. Saturday’s showcase features The Defendants, Mothers Onion, Dead Beat, Gathering Mercury, Silver Skull and Abrade The Regal. There will be raffles, auctions and drawings both nights. Both shows start at 8:00pm with a $5 cover. Club Panama is located at 951 James Street, Springfield OH 45503.

Over The Rhine Returns to Victoria Theatre Ticket Contest

September 30, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro 4 Comments

The husband and wife team of pianist/guitarist/bassist Linford Detweiler and vocalist/guitarist Karin Bergquist make up the core of the Cincinnati inspired musical group OVER THE RHINE. Performing for over 20 years, they developed a large and intensely loyal following in their hometown, before they independently released their first two albums, Till We Have Faces (1991) and Patience (1992). Their new double album’s (Meet Me at the Edge of the World) effortlessly engaging, timelessly resonant songs more than justify such loyalty, once again validating OVER THE RHINE’s enduring musical mission. Their 2012 debut at the Victoria Theatre has led to a return engagement this Saturday, Oct 5th at 8:00pm.

Opening the show will be Akron native Tim Easton. Now a Nashville, Tennessee-based guitarist and singer-songwriter playing musician. His latest album “Not Cool” is described as “kind of a 50′s, Sun Studio thing, kind of a rock and roll thing.

Tickets are available online for $30 – $40 with a $5 processing fee. You can avoid the fee by purchasing tickets in person at our box office.

DMM has two pairs of tickets to giveaway to one our lucky readers! Just like and share this story and fill out the entry form below. We’ll post our winners here on Tuesday night. [form 55 “DMM Contest Entry – Generic”]

Coming Up in Local Jazz – September 25 through October 8

September 25, 2013 By Ron Gable Leave a Comment

Hall of famer Clay “The Cooker” Collins

Who is Clay “The Cooker” Collins?

Clay Collins came to Dayton from Chicago in 1968 as a Radio News Reporter for WAVI/WDAO and advanced to Program and Community Relations director. Clay’s infinite knowledge and love of jazz music gave birth to his own weekly program “Jazzsistically Speaking” which aired on WAVI/WDAO from 1969-73, on WING from 1975-83. His jazz radio career continued at WCSU up to 1994 and at Clear Channel’s Smooth Jazz 106.9 until they decided to go Country in 2009 and he opted to leave them behind. Shortly after and because of Clear Channel’s decision, WDPS 89.5-FM went to an “all jazz, all the time” format. On October 1st, 2009 “The Cooker” hit the airways from 9:45 AM to 12noon, and so “Jazzsistically Speaking” continues to this day.

On November 24, 2007 Clay was inducted into the Dayton Broadcast Hall of Fame and on September 28th Clay will celebrate forty-five years of being on Dayton radio and the station has decided to celebrate his milestone on that date by offering their 3rd Annual Listener Appreciation Concert. WDPS (Dayton Public Schools) radio is located at 741 Washington Street in the David H. Ponitz Career Center.

In addition this free event will be a continuation of Jazz Advocate’s annual Community Jazz Festivals and will be offering four acts on stage:

The John Slate Trio (4:00 – 4:45 pm)

The Special Guest Band (5:00 – 5:45 pm)

The Jazz Central Band (6:00 – 6:45 pm)

Dean Simms’ tribute to Louie Armstrong (two sets, 7:00 – 7:45 & 8:00 – 8:45 pm)

In addition we will have drink and food vendors, a student bake sale, a dancing area, sponsor tables and of course a number of give-away prizes.

Satchmo Dean Simms

The above four groups are all great and have the elements to make this a very fun and entertaining mini jazz festival. The finale tribute to Louie Armstrong, I’ve had the good fortune to have seen twice and in my humble opinion is the best live jazz performance ever. When Dean Simms takes the stage, the audience is immediately captivated, as they are taken on an epic journey of Louis Armstrong’s “bigger than life” stellar career. Their rendition of “Basin Street Blues”, show stopping Conga-line performance of the “Saints Go Marching In”, up tempo version of a “Wonderful World”, “St Louis Blues”, and ending their 90 minute show with a standing encore performance of “Hello Dolly”, that leaves you totally mesmerized! This man looks like Louie Armstrong, he sounds like Louie Armstrong and when he plays the trumpet that caps it off – he is Louie Armstrong. You end up feeling like you’ve experienced a live performance of America’s greatest ambassador of jazz.

WDPS (89.5 FM) has filled a void in the local market as “Dayton’s home for jazz” since moving to its new studios in the Ponitz Career Technology Center in 2009, and has earned a loyal following. Students in the Ponitz CTC arts and communication career pathway have disc jockey duties and serve as on-air personalities alongside familiar on-air voices, like Clay “The Cooker” Collins who have brought area listeners the best in jazz over the years. Clay says “I want to see your face in the place!” (More details at: http://www.jazzcentraldayton.com/#05)

Jazz Calendar

Here are some (not all) of the upcoming jazz events for the next couple of weeks:

Today Wednesday, September 25 – The Faux Frenchmen are at the La Poste Eatery in Cincinnati and Ricky Nye is at Chez Nora in Covington, KY.

Thursday September 26 – There is a Jam Session hosted by Chay Buddah & Hott2def at Bankshots Sports Bar & Grill in Trotwood, OH.

Friday September 27 – The Scott Belck Quartet is at Washington Platform Saloon & Restaurant in Cincinnati and the Brent Gallaher Trio is at Radisson’s 360 In Covington, KY.

Saturday September 28 – The WDPS-FM 3rd annual Listener Appreciation Concert will be held at David H. Ponitz Career Center 741 Washington Street in Dayton.

Sunday September 29 – The Swingtime Big Band is at Legends and Bluesbent is at the Blue Wisp Jazz Club both in Cincinnati.

September 30 – The John Taylor Trio is at Brio Tuscan Grille in Beavercreek and Vaughn Wiester’s Famous Jazz Orchestra is at the Clintonville Woman’s Club in Columbus.

Tuesday October 1 – Dave Greer’s Classic Jazz Stompers is at Jimmies Ladder 11 in Dayton and Derek DiCenzo Trio is at Local Roots in Powell, OH.

Wednesday October 2 – Swing Dance with Lizz & Rex Review at the Dayton Event Connection and Rich Lopez is at Rigsby’s in Columbus.

Thursday October 3 – The Jazz Central Big Band returns to Jazz Central with special guest Ken McCoy and there is a new Jam Session w/Eddie Brookshire at Gilly’s both in Dayton.

Friday October 4 – The Shaw Stanley Trio plays at Carvers Steaks & Chops in Centerville and JC & The Rowdy’s Blues Jam is at Jazz Central in Dayton.

Saturday October 5 – The NEW Ed Moss Trio w/special guests is at the Schwartz Point Jazz Club in Cincinnati and the Wade Baker Jazz Collaboration is at the Chatterbox Jazz Club in Indianapolis, IN.

Sunday October 6 – Jazz Central will feature special guest artist Bob “Big Cutty” Bass on the Hammond B3 Organ to take part in their regular Sunday Night Jam

Monday October 7 – Mark Flugge, Derek Dicenzo & Jimmy Castoe is at Due Amici in Columbus.

Tuesday October 8 – Tony Monaco is at the Rumba Café in Columbus and the Part St. Tavern Jazz Jam continues, both in Columbus.

More info and jazz listings can be found at JazzAdvocate.com

REVIEW: Curse of Cassandra, Evil Eye Gypsy, One Day Steady Rock McGuffys

September 24, 2013 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Saturday the 14th, the day captured in comedic horror parody in the early 80’s, brought the locals to the McGuffy’s stage and one extended Cincinnati local to play a unique variety show of inspirational/experimental tunes. Instead of the oft-accustomed loud thrash head-banging and mosh pits, the audience got some hot club swinging electronica, some southern rock n blues and some quirky-edged modern rock.

Curse of Cassandra (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Opening the show was the new, new-wave dark ambient foursome Curse of Cassandra, electronic gothic rock with haunting vocals and enticing dance beats weaving songs from the synth, drums and keys about obsessive dominating relationships strung whip tight. Formed earlier this year, they’ve already gained considerable attention coming in second place garnering over 500 votes in the June’s featured band/artist of the month contest on Music Connection Dayton. C.O.C., not to be confused with Corrosion of Conformity, is a nostalgically fresh wave of dance floor domination and deviation harkening back to the downtown Goth/industrial era mecca of the 1470, Asylum, Foundry heyday. Their musical muse brings back black nailed, opaque memories of dancing in euphoric bliss till dawn then retiring to your sheeted coffin or rafter. In Greek mythology, the beautiful Cassandra was given the gift of prophecy by Apollo but after refusing his seduction, he cursed her so that no one would believe her predictions, a female Nostradamus of sorts.

They open the dance floor metaphor with the cold sweetened pain pricks of the Pins and Needles. Asher Black plays the first longing notes calling out to sweet, sweet Aurora, her soft daybreak eyes sparkle with twilight bringing the sun behind her. The classy burlesque clad tattooed Alexis Machine straddles the mic like a personal plaything, fondling its cold rail as she sings a low lunged serenade of Satiation. Electra’s Complex gives a hard boot-licking smash on keyboards so we can feel the deep, dirty throbbing moan of the bass. Alexis prances the stage playing nice on some tunes then getting right in the faces of her hordes of willing subservient followers. Their performance could be described as a husky voiced, musical striptease of sound encasing the cold fanged embrace of midnight and the warm slumber of dawn. We’re immersed in the mysterious presence of the Unknown Woman as we watch her Stardance with a heavy bass groove down the rainy streets of London after midnight. You Complete Me’s robotic heaviness accompanies its techno, Goth, industrial brethren creating landscapes of all night bliss and lyrically obsessive romances.

Everytime I Feel Alone is a slow moving slice and dice of the heart with a wet butcher knife stained with some NIN self-loathing and disdained hope. Alexis pulls out some Maria Brink making it her moment under the smoky spotlight in her lounge singing salute. Dead of Night brings out the slinking serpent tongued Arabian delight reminiscent of The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove. Next we enter into a heavy breathing Binding relationship as Cassandra offers us an addicting taste of the whip and the accompanying pain, pleasure and ecstasy found within. Miss Machine compliments her eurythmic presence with the vocal aura of Grace Slick, Jem, Christa Belle and Siouxsie spreading the curse for the rest of her banshees.

Evil Eye Gypsy (photo by Mike Ritchie)

Next Dayton’s Evil Eye Gypsy protects us from the Maloik bringing its seven members onstage for its fifth trip to the house of rock. EEG resembles a family more than a band with three guitars, bass, drums, five guys, two women, four microphones, tambourines, morocco shakers and a good ole fashioned thunder-stick for effect. They play a unique version of psychedelic blues, alternative, hard rock and folk music. It’s Skynyrd meets Fleetwood Mac with some Credence in the Clearwater for this funky, southern prairie jamboree revival. They play the musical gospel that makes the body move.

Bitter Comedy plays like a surreal desert trip acid nightmare driving down the long dehydrated highways of discarded dreams hoping to meet the sun face to face as beautiful haunting voices remind you of your past life. All I Had to Say breaks out the lyrical attitude alongside some journeyman blues. Mojave’s introduction leaves us deserted, dry and stranded staggering in the sand under a scorching sun in a barren Pink Floyd landscape. Two minutes until the end we delve further and further in letting the desert plains tell us its deepest secrets and memories.

They played a nice lullaby to the tune of War Pigs possibly opening the first ever ‘dance pit’ for worshipping the Sabbath. Playing three tunes off the Dirt Roads CD and a few new unreleased tracks they gave us something to look forward to hearing. Their music is available for free download on www.evileyegypsy.com.

One Day Steady (photo by Mike Ritchie)

From Cincinnati One Day Steady (we’re only the same for one day) starts Slurred and ready with an alternative, modern rock sound rocking the cradle with some punk tasting rockabilly and a 50’s greaser throwback style. The Dave Song’s a weird mixture of Dave Matthews and the Traveling Wilburys hanging out on the right side of the tracks waiting for the train to flatten pennies. They played a collection of new unreleased tunes and a heart breaking cover of Cold Hard Bitch. They Drove Through has a nice surprising Sabbath-like end breakdown and unique lyrical inspiration coming from rhythm guitarist/vocalist Ryan Peters bizarre dream of helping a stranger get revenge on their boss, then waking up and writing the song in three minutes. Break Break’s a twangy, stringy breakup dance after an impassioned phone message. Just over a year old, the band’s earliest roots begin in 2008 with a band called Drop From the Top. In 2010 what would become ODS was formed, and they’ve already played with a list of accomplished musicians in the Cincinnati and Cleveland scenes and are ready to go anyplace, anywhere.

Local Music Adds Hip Flair to Outdoor Recreation Festival

September 23, 2013 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

By now, you probably already know that the Midwest Outdoor Experience presented by Subaru is the best weekend event to experience all things outdoors, from the intense (like the slackline skills area, practicing yoga on a stand-up paddleboard or trying out the mountain biking challenge course) to the more laid-back (fly fishing, orienteering and hiking are all great ways to relax with Mother Nature). But did you know that in addition to presenting a plethora of premier park pursuits, visitors to the annual Midwest Outdoor Experience also have access to fantastic local music, co-presented by public radio station WYSO and Dayton Music Fest?

The Midwest Outdoor Experience, set for Friday, October 4, through Saturday, October 5, will feature some of the best musicians Dayton has to offer. Celebrating nine years in the local music scene, the annual Dayton Music Fest “seeks to shine a spotlight on Dayton’s indie music scene” with performances taking place October 4-6 at several venues, including Eastwood MetroPark, home to the Midwest Outdoor Experience.

WYSO also contributes to the fun, presenting the musical lineup for Friday night, Oct. 4, featuring:

6:45-8:15 p.m. Jah Sol: With their combination of not only reggae, but soul, funk and disco, Jah Sol supplies the good times with their music. The eight member band gets the party going.

8:30-10 p.m. William the Accountant: Formed in 2009 in Columbus, Ohio, William The Accountant composes a musical playground of late ’70s new wave, Brazilian samba and New Orleans second line that defiantly incites activity and impulse.

Check out the Dayton Music Fest lineup at the Midwest Outdoor Experience, taking the stage Saturday, Oct. 5, featuring:

11 a.m. Josh Eagle: This Cincinnati coffee-house regular shares personal, soft, longing, winged Folk. Eagle’s gripping voice, touching finger picking and bleeding harmonicas snatch you up like the raw, intimate music of Ray Lamontagne. Soothing and originally raspy, songs hurt and heal, gliding into calmness.

12 p.m. Good English: Good English is a three-sister rock band from Dayton whose musical style is reflective of the indie, roots, blues, and folk rock that has influenced its members. Running counter to the usual young girl-band stereotypes, the band’s authentic instrumentation and rich vocals proves their budding talent as musicians, while their original songwriting and irresistible grace and beauty makes them a powerfully appealing package. They know how to rock, and they carry themselves with a sense of poise and style that is well beyond their years.

1 p.m. Meghna & the Majority: Singer/songwriter Meghna Mahambrey first stepped on stage for a solo performance in her elementary school musical. She went on to cover the hits of Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Etta James in her middle and high school talent shows. In college, she recorded an R&B/pop album; in graduate school, she recorded an acoustic/folk album. In December 2012, alongside her career in education, she released a jazzy, singer-songwriter album and formed her new band, Meghna & the Majority. With her soulful, seasoned voice, she sings – not for the fame, not for the fortune. She sings because she has a song.

2 p.m. Kris N: With his second release and first full-length, “Lo-Fi Movement,” Dayton-based Kris N. has made a great pop record. Marked by strong melodies and lyrics that explore the place he is in and his life as a husband and father.

3 p.m. Jah Sol: This group brings back the bass and keys, returning to the stage to bring the funk to attendees at the Midwest Outdoor Experience for a second time.

4 p.m. Starving in the Belly of the Whale: Starving in the Belly of the Whale is the music of Ricky Terrell. Terrell is accompanied by a changing cast of musicians on each album to capture a unique, desired sound.

5 p.m. The Repeating Arms: Max Nunery plays banjo, guitar, lap steel and sings back-up. Harold Hensley plays acoustic guitar and sings. Chip Pritchard plays upright bass and sings back-up vocals. Brian Spirk plays mandolin and fiddle.

6 p.m. New Vega: The Southern Ohio four piece New Vega brims with vibrant hooks and aching melodies. Their debut album Tempo has captured the attention of major festivals and media outlets.

7 p.m. PUBLIC: Formerly known as “crown” – PUBLIC is comprised of three friends who wish to always be allowed to dance, yell, and have fun with their music as long as inhumanly possible.

Other awesome activities that pair nicely with a fun-filled afternoon of outdoor adventure include:

Great Lakes Brewing Co. Beer Garden: Hosted by Bonbright Distributors, funds from the beer garden will benefit the Mad River Mountain Ski Patrol. (As if you needed more reasons to raise a glass around the campfire on a crisp, fall evening!)
Outdoor Food Truck Rally: Re-fuel your recreation-ravaged body with delicious fare from several local mobile eateries, including Fressa, Cheeky Meat Pies, Pa’s Pork and Smokin’ Bar-B-Que.
Zuke’s Bark Zone: If you bring Fido to this pet-friendly event, be sure to check out the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs competition and let Spot get a little exercise at Subaru Pooch Island.
Exhibitor Village: Get the gear you need to “Get Out & Live” all year long at the Exhibitor Village.

That’s just a small slice of everything there is to do at the annual Midwest Outdoor Experience. Stop by (perhaps for a little overnight in the Eddie Bauer Campground camping) and discover why Dayton has rightfully earned the title “Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Midwest”!

Dayton Music

50th Annual Troy Strawberry Festival

50th Annual Troy Strawberry Festival

Monday, June 1, 2026

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

Wednesday, June 3, 2026

Thursday, June 4, 2026