Jim Price
Moderator
Joined: 07 Dec 2002
Posts: 4817
Location: Altoona, PA
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 Posted: Tuesday Aug 12, 2008 |
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WEEK/WEEKEND RECAP 7/28/08
SHARK BITE @ PELLEGRINE’S, ALTOONA 7/21/08
Besides the ever-popular wings, this Monday night again saw another crazy edition of the Adam & Big Jim Show, better known as Shark Bite, at Pellegrine’s.
Happiness was again the theme of the night, as Adam played a game of identifying ‘gay’ references in each song as the night progressed. I didn’t understand the theme of the game; all I heard was something about the winner going home with Pelly’s bar staffers Natalie or Misty at the end of the night…works for me!
Shark Bite’s second set included the expected favorites from Guns’N’Roses, Pink Floyd, Doors, AC/DC, Who, Buckcherry, Gin Blossoms and more. Adam handled the lion’s share of lead voice, with Big Jim chiming in to demonstrate his lead singing skills on versions of Glenn Frey’s “Partytown” (or as ‘Guv’nor Jesse calls it, “The Kiss My Ass Song”) and the Allman Brothers’ “Sweet Melissa.” Adam also broke out his Chris Cornell ‘lounge’ take on Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.”
The nightcap set included many more favorites from the likes of Violent Femmes, Garth Brooks, Georgia Satellites, Jethro Tull, Poison, Radiohead, Journey, Train, Bad Company and more. Sidelights included a Guv’nor Jesse request for Harry Chapin’s “Cats in the Cradle,” Big Jim singing lead on the Eagles’ “Tequila Sunrise,” and Adam ‘stumping the Professor’ on a DC Talk song (he has to dig pretty deep to get one past me). I surprised Adam in turn with a yelled-out request for one of his Porno Tek originals, “Blind Genocide.”
In all, a fun night once again. I don’t know who won the contest and got to go home with either Natalie or Misty, but the abundance of wings and live music provided enough joy for me on this Monday eve…
Decadence abounded at Pellegrine’s again this night, as here we see Big Jim putting his hands on Adam D’s organ again…
SHOTS McGEE @ 4D’S LOUNGE, ALTOONA 7/23/08
After finally witnessing my first Altoona Curve victory of this season at Blair County Ballpark (they beat Akron 6-3, making their record 1-5 for games I’ve attended so far this year), and making a one-handed grab of a Sheetz hot dog tossed up into the stands, I was off to the 4D’s to celebrate, and take in the latest with Shots McGee.
The Dees was nicely populated as I arrived, and the Shots McGee cast of singer/lead guitarist Brendon Burns, singer/rhythm guitarist Rhyne McCormick, bassist/singer Kelly Montgomery and drummer Randy Servello was finishing up their second set with the Kelly-fronted rendition of Jimi Hendrix’s “Fire” and the Beatles’ “Twist and Shout.”
The Dees’ crowd’s mood was festive, enough so that folks were dancing when the group kicked off their nightcap set with a Rhyne original song, “Say Tonight.” Randy then sang lead behind the drum kit on Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition,” and the party was again on! The musical festivities continued with songs from Sublime, Violent Femmes, more Jimi Hendrix (“Foxey Lady,” again sung by Kelly), Queen, Wild Cherry, John Mellencamp, Johnny Cash, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, Doobie Brothers and more. The Dees’ upstairs Schnappes Shoppe dance floor area remained busy through most of it, as folks had fun and burned off steam during the latter minutes of their humpday.
Shots McGee sounded good on all of it. These guys are a tight and together unit that executes cleanly, demonstrates strong vocals on all ends, and tight instrumental performances to boot! This group has already built a healthy midweek following at the 4D’s with their consistently strong performances, and this show only reaffirmed that they are a rising force on local and regional stages. Oce again, good stuff!
Shots McGee gets ‘em dancing at the 4D’s.
Kelly Montgomery of Shots McGee.
HALF TEMPTED @ LAKEMONT PARK WING-OFF, ALTOONA 7/24/08
I was ready for “Lights Out in Lakemont” as Half Tempted was providing the rock during this week’s installment of the Lakemont Park Wing-Off’s.
Rising again like the proverbial phoenix, semi-retired singer Steve Oswalt was on the stage with the Half Tempted roster of singer/guitarist Ron Dalansky, bassist Joe George and drummer Clint Carothers. As I procured servings of mango habanero and hot garlic wings from the Pellegrine’s wing pavilion, Half Tempted was finishing up their in-progress set with renditions of Seven Mary Three’s “Cumbersome,” a G-rated rendition of Buckcherry’s “Crazy (Wings)” and Poison’s “Every Rose Has ItsThorn.”
Fortunately, again this Wing-Off was blessed by good weather; and a good-sized crowd of wing-eating folks and people out to enjoy the social occasion of it all populated the Wing-Off area.
Half Tempted’s latter set saw a number of chills, thrills and guests. Steve cranked the voice on the set-opening rendition of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs.” Ron handled the lead singing duties on Drivin’ N’ Cryin’s “Fly Me Courageous,” Kiss’ “Detroit Rock City” and “Rock & Roll All Nite,” before Steve again sang lead on Judas Priest’s“Breakin’ the Law.” After a rendition of Def Leppard’s “Wasted,” disabled list-bound Half Tempted drummer Steve McCulley – still mending from last summer’s back surgery – sat in behind the drum kit for AC/DC’s “The Jack.” After a version of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid,” another special guest, BluesMoon singer Trace Baker, displayed her powerful and high-ranging pipes on Led Zeppelin’s “Rock and Roll.” The party continued with Ted Nugent’s “Cat Scratch Fever,” Aerosmith’s “Sweet Emotion,” Jimi Hendrix’s “Fire” and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama,” before Steve again cranked out lead voice on Tesla’s “Love Song.” After Eric Clapton’s “Cocaine,” it was indeed “Lights Out in Lakemont” as Steve fronted Half Tempted in a localized adaptation of UFO’s “Lights Out.” Next was an AC/DC triple-shot of “TNT,” “Whole Lotta Rosie” and “Highway to Hell,” the latter two songs with guest Denise “Weezie” Neely belting out the Bon Scott polecat howl. This was followed by the Clash’s “Should I Stay or Should I Go,” before Steve Oswalt went full Morrison on the Doors’ “Roadhouse Blues,” conjuring “The End” lyrics as he fronted the song towards its end. Half Tempted then wrapped the night with versions of Tommy Tutone’s “Jenny/867-5309,” Judas Priest’s “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin,” Blur’s “Song 2” and Metallica’s “Enter Sandman.”
Half Tempted again brought the maximum fire and brimstone as they rocked this Wing-Off for all it was worth. Ron, Joe and Clint were all solid and strong on their instruments, and the vocal fireworks by Steve, Trace and Denise were all strong and impressive. The Wing-Off crowd seemed to get most of it (save for the UFO, which I fully appreciated). It was likely the hardest that this year’s Wing-Off’s rocked, and again a good time.
Half Tempted, with special guest Steve Oswalt, rocking the Lakemont Park Wing-Off.
Again, Half Tempted.
Steve Oswalt, belting some voice with Half Tempted.
Joe George of Half Tempted.
Again, Steve Oswalt.
BluesMoon’s Trace Baker makes a guest appearance with Half Tempted.
Again, Half Tempted with special guest Trace Baker.
Guest Trace Baker and Ron Dalansky of Half Tempted.
Again, Trace Baker.
Yet again, Trace Baker.
Another guest, Randy, contributes some harmonica to Half Tempted’s Wing-Off party.
Steve Oswalt enlists the help of a young backing singer.
Special guest singer Denise Neely joins the party.
Denise Neely belts out some voice with Half Tempted.
Once again, Ronny D of Half Tempted.
SOUTH SATURN DELTA @ CURTIN MALL, ALTOONA 7/25/08
I returned to downtown Altoona’s Curtin Mall to catch my second look at South Saturn Delta, performing as part of the Summer Sounds of Jazz concert series.
As expected, a good-sized crowd was already in place as I arrived during the latter stage of South Saturn Delta’s second set. The group – singer April Iorio, guitarist Dave Fecca, bassist Jerry Mayall, keyboardist John Tiberi and drummer Mike Newmiller – was playing a tasty blend of funk, blues, jazz and swamp flavors, performing both original numbers and select remakes. The group was doing a jazzy and soulful original tune when I first arrived, with April showing a bright and soulful voice. After another original number, the group welcomed April’s mother, Silva, who stepped up to the microphone to demonstrate her passionate and soulful delivery on the classic “Summertime.” The group then finished up their set with B.B. King’s “Every Day I Have the Blues,” which escalated to a frenzied finish with Dave guitar soloing behind his back.
During the intermission, I grabbed a bite to eat and procured a good vantage point to take in the band’s third set along one of the mall’s benches close to the stage. I noted that this band was out in the crowd and meeting people during their intermission, touching base with folks who discovered South Saturn Delta during their performance at this event last year, as well as new fans seeing them for the first time.
Soon, the group returned to their instruments to kick off their last set. South Saturn Delta reconvened the music with an original tune, possibly from their recently-issued full-length CD Drink from the Well. Dave then sang the lead on Albert Collins’ “I’m Not Drunk,” before the group welcomed special guest Mary Villani to the stage to play keys on “Mustang Sally.” This became a nice feisty jam, with Dave introducing each of the band members and allowing them to showcase their solo abilities. April’s mother, Silva, then returned to the stage to unleash more of her passionate vocal soul and fury on “Stormy Monday.” The party kept escalating with Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Pride and Joy” and two more songs to finish the set. When the Curtin Mall audience demanded an encore, South Saturn Delta responded with a hot rendition of “Jingo,” with Silva returning to help out with percussion.
It was an absolutely great display from South Saturn Delta. Instrumentally this group was strong, and smoothly gearshifted between the various musical flavors they brought to the stage. Dave and John constantly lit it up on their respective instruments, with Jerry and Mike providing the steady and variable rhythmic backdrop. Both April and her mother showed great range and soulful power in their voices, and kept the audience’s attention riveted to the stage.
After the show, I chatted with Dave, April and Silva respectively; all very cool people with a passion for their music. Silva was especially insightful about this band and their musical magic, and how she is invigorated when she gets up to sing alongside her daughter.
Based on the audience’s response, it appears that South Saturn Delta won more Altoona area fans this night; here’s hoping we get to see more of this band in the months and years to come!
South Saturn Delta, entertaining at Curtin Mall.
Singer April Iorio’s mother, Silva, joins South Saturn Delta on stage – what a hearty and soulful voice!
Again, Silva on lead voice.
Belting out more soulful voice, Silva.
Again, South Saturn Delta with guest Silva.
Jerry Mayall of South Saturn Delta.
With guest Mary Villani on keys (on left), South Saturn Delta.
From another angle, South Saturn Delta.
Dave Fecca of South Saturn Delta.
April Iorio of South Saturn Delta.
Mike Newmiller of South Saturn Delta.
Again, Dave Fecca of South Saturn Delta.
More guitar fireworks with Dave Fecca of South Saturn Delta.
With Silva helping out on tambourine, South Saturn Delta.
More South Saturn Delta.
Tapping out some percussion, April Iorio of South Saturn Delta.
Once again, Dave Fecca of South Saturn Delta.
Yet again, Dave Fecca.
John Tiberi and Dave Fecca of South Saturn Delta.
Happily tapping out rhythms, April Iorio.
BACKLASH @ THE HITCHING POST, ALTOONA 7/25/08
From Curtin Mall, I headed to the Hitching Post, to catch some rock’n’roll sounds from Backlash. The first time I saw this band last winter, it was on the coldest Saturday night of the winter, and bad roads and frigid temperatures resulted in zero crowd and an early end to the night. Hopefully this night things would be significantly better.
To a degree, they were. The weather conditions were definitely improved, but crowd attendance wasn’t. Again, it was a relatively unknown out-of-town band in Altoona on a Friday night; go figure.
I arrived just before the start of Backlash’s second set, and chatted briefly with the band members before they returned to their instruments. Singer/guitarist Wade Shumaker, bassist/singer Dan McCorkle and drummer Jim Mills started into the set with Spencer Davis Group’s “Gimme Good Lovin,’” and proceeded with classic tunes from David Bowie, .38 Special, Tom Petty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eagles, T. Rex, Rick Springfield and more. The group pulled out two 90’s gems, Refreshments’ “Banditos” and Social Distortion’s “Ball and Chain.”
Backlash’s nightcap set kicked off with AC/DC’s “TNT,” and featured favorites from Billy Idol, Spin Doctors, Black Crowes, Jimmy Buffett, Sugar Ray, Doors, Green Day and more. Highlights along the way included Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” (requested by semi-retired sword-twirler “Nikki Slice,” making a rare public appearance), and the group’s fiery spin on Kiss’ “Deuce.”
Backlash did a good job overall. These guys offered up a solid and steady performance, building up steam during each set as they went along. Dan and Wade shared most of the vocal duties, and both handled their respective assignments well. Backlash delivered their set list with some rowdiness and enthusiasm, and it was clear these guys were having fun performing their rock’n’roll this night.
It was good, fun, straight-up-the-gut rock’n’roll that was received well by the small group of onlookers in attendance.
Backlash, rocking the Hitching Post.
Again, Backlash.
Wade Shumaker of Backlash.
Jim Mills of Backlash.
Dan McCorkle of Backlash.
Again, Wade Shumaker of Backlash.
Again, Dan McCorkle of Backlash.
One more time, Backlash.
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL @ PENN STATE ALTOONA 7/26/08
After a few years without a strong live music presence, this year’s annual African American Heritage Festival at Penn State Altoona had some potentially interesting band entertainment on the schedule. So I decided to go check it out.
I was rewarded right off the bat as I arrived, as I noted a band readying to perform under Penn State Altoona’s main performance pavilion. That group was the James Alston Quartet. From Pittsburgh, the James Alston Quartet performed a tasty blend of jazz and vintage soul. Namesake Dr. James Alston played saxophone and flute; Andrew Yalch played keys, Tom Evans sang, and a fourth band member played hand percussion. Their set began with an interesting flute-driven instrumental variation on Chuck Mangione’s “Feels So Good. Tom then demonstrated his smooth and broad voice on the Gene McDaniels/Roberta Flack hit “Feel Like Makin’ Love.” Next was Quincy Jones’ “Alright Okay You Win,” with Dr. James showing his saxophone skills, before shifting back to flute on the Stylistics’ “Betcha By Golly Wow.” Andrew and the percussionist then took the spotlight for an instrumental rendition of “Somewhere Out There,” before the group launched into a soul/jazz medley that fused together portions of Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” “Catch the ‘A’ Train,” a Caribbean-flavored number and more. The group then finished their performance with “Don’t Lie to Me.” This group’s sound was laid-back and smooth, with the instruments setting the mellow tone and Tom’s soulful voice sealing the deal. These guys commented about the hospitality they received this day from the festival organizers and folks in attendance, and their performance was well-received.
The James Alston Quartet.
Group namesake, Dr. James Alston.
Tom Evans of The James Alston Quartet.
Again, Dr. James Alston.
Tom Evans and Dr. James Alston of The James Alston Quartet.
As the next band set up on the stage, I perused the rest of the African American Heritage Festival, checking out some of the craft and informational booths and grabbing a bite to eat. The food at this event is always good; I ended up doing a Philly cheesesteak, a cob of Cajun corn (corn cobs boiled up with Cajun spices, spicy corn-on-the-cob if you will), and a slice of sweet potato pie. Tasty stuff! Attendance seemed strong at this year’s Festival, and it was cool to see a wide variety of folks supporting the event, African Americans and other American heritages alike.
Headlining and closing the festival was Lady ‘A’ & Destiny, a Motown tribute group from the Poconos. Six members strong, this group was amazing, specializing in 60’s-era Motown hits, complete with sequined costumes, vocal harmonies, choreographed dance moves and more! Namesake Lady A,’ Adrian Carver, provided a sassy and soulful voice and also served as ringleader of the presentation. Peter Carver played guitar, Tom O’Lear played keys, and Richie “Raggs” Ranaglia wailed on sax. Two members of the group doubled as backing singers and instrumentalists; drummer Clarence Oliver and bassist Jonathan Williams. With Lady ‘A’ dressed in red, and backing singers Jonathan and Clarence decked in sparkling red sequined jackets, the group started off their set with “Get Ready,” and did classics from throughout the Motown catalog, including Smokey Robinson’s “Tracks of My Tears” and “The Way You Do The Things You Do,” the Four Tops’ “I Can’t Help Myself,” The Miracles’ “You Really Got a Hold on Me,” the Temptations’ “Just My Imagination” and “My Girl,” Stevie Wonder’s “Signed Sealed Delivered” and more. Lady ‘A’ and Jonathan did several Marvin Gaye duet classics, performing the Marvin/Kim Weston hit “It Takes Two,” and the Marvin/Tammi Terrell classics “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” and the set-closing “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” Another highlight late in the set was the group’s “Vegas medley,” which strung together Little Anthony & the Imperials’ “Goin’ Out of My Head” and Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” This band’s energy and enthusiasm was constant, and Lady ‘A’ kept the audience riveted with her energy and soulful power. These folks captured the mood and spirit of the original hits, and kept the pace action-packed and tight. The audience was quickly cheering and dancing along, and at set’s end, quickly demanded an encore, which the group responded to with Martha Reeves & the Vandellas’ “Heatwave.” Lady ‘A’ & Destiny delivered an excellent quality performance, and if you ever have the chance to see this group in action, definitely do so!
Here is some video footage of Lady A & Destiny’s performance:
http://www.rockpage.net/users/jprice/video/MOV01856.MPG
Lady ‘A’ & Destiny, celebrating Motown sounds.
Again, Lady ‘A’ & Destiny.
Lady ‘A,’ flanked by Clarence Oliver and Jonathan Williams.
Once again, Lady ‘A’ & Destiny.
Richie “Raggs” Ranaglia and Lady ‘A’ of Lady ‘A’ & Destiny.
”Lady ‘A,’” Adrian Carver.
Richie “Raggs” Ranaglia of Lady ‘A’ & Destiny.
One more time, Lady ‘A’ & Destiny.
This closed the African American Heritage Festival for another year. I was glad to see some live band entertainment back on the menu at this event, and excellent live music at that!
RIBBON GRASS @ CONEMAUGH TOWNSHIP WING FLING, GREENHOUSE PARK, JOHNSTOWN 7/26/08
My next destination was over the hill to Johnstown, to take in the Conemaugh Township Volunteer Fire Department’s Wing Fling at Greenhouse Park. Ribbon Grass was providing the musical entertainment.
I had attended this event – Johnstown’s equivalent of Lakemont Park’s Wing-Off or the Tussey Wing Challenge – last year, and knew a bit of what to expect. First of all, some pandemonium finding a parking space in a packed Greenhouse Park, especially since I was arriving at 9 PM, some 3 hours into the festivities. But I was able to find a parking space without too much hassle. Then was the procurement of wings and brew. First, I head to obtain a wrist band to do the beer thing, and purchase tickets for beer and wings. Wings at this event were $7 a dozen. Unlike Lakemont or Tussey, where you step in line to obtain your wings as they are being made, here you place your order at the wing stand of your choice, and give your name, and stand by and wait for it to be called out when your wing order is ready. In my case, at the CK Wings & Things stand, I had to wait about 25 minutes for my order of a half dozen mango habanero and half dozen Cajun wings.
In the meantime, Ribbon Grass started into their next set (3rd?). This would be my first opportunity to see this band since Steve Toma took over guitar duties, joining the seasoned cast of singer Terri Single, keyboardist/violinist/singer David Single, bassist Ron Gallucci and drummer Mark Vatavuk. The group reconvened the party with Prince’s “Let’s Get Crazy,” and continued with favorites from the J. Geils Band, Abba, Village People, Bon Jovi, Twisted Sister and more. Highlights during this set included David breaking out his violin during the country passage of Big & Rich’s “Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy” and Charlie Daniels’ “Devil Went Down to Georgia.” The crowd remained jammed in front of the stage and dancing through it all; obviously this was where the party in Johnstown was at least for the early part of this Saturday night.
I had thought I would only get to see one set this night, thinking the Wing Fling was done at 10 PM. I was happy to learn that this event went til 11 PM, and one more set of tunes was forthcoming.
Ribbon Grass’ nightcap set started in an urban vein, with Mark lead-rapping on a hip-hop number. The group then shifted gears old school, breaking out Dion’s “Runaround Sue,” with Steve adorning the song with a sharp guitar solo. Steve then nailed the Neal Schon guitar parts dead on during the Dave-sung version of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin.’” Terri did her own urban rap on a dance number, before the Dave-fronted version of Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl,” and an audience request for Cheap Trick’s “I Want You to Want Me” closed the set. When Johnstown Nation demanded more, Ribbon Grass responded with one more song.
This night showed that the Ribbon Grass party rolls on. The band clicked on all cylinders, and Steve fit in comfortably in his new band surroundings. His guitar work was clean and on target, and complemented the rest of the group’s mix well. Dave’s and Terri’s voices were in good form, and Dave’s multi-instrumental skills were again impressive as well.
It was a fun, if a bit chaotic, wing-eating party. I had completed two-thirds of the region’s wing-eating event trifecta for this season, with only a visit to Tussey remaining (coming soon). A good time!
Ribbon Grass, playing to a huge crowd at the Wing Fling.
Again, Ribbon Grass and a huge Wing Fling crowd.
Ron Gallucci of Ribbon Grass.
David Single of Ribbon Grass.
Mark Vatavuk of Ribbon Grass.
Steve Toma of Ribbon Grass.
Steve Toma and Ron Gallucci of Ribbon Grass.
Terri Single of Ribbon Grass.
Again, Mark Vatavuk of Ribbon Grass.
Again, Ribbon Grass at the Wing Fling.
Again, Steve and Ron of Ribbon Grass.
More party mayhem with Ribbon Grass.
Terri and David Single of Ribbon Grass.
Once again, Ron Gallucci of Ribbon Grass.
Again, Terri Single of Ribbon Grass.
One more time, Ribbon Grass.
HAIR FORCE ONE @ PONY LOUNGE, JOHNSTOWN 7/26/08
After the Wing Fling, I decided to stay on the Johnstown side of the hill, and headed to the newly-reopened Pony Lounge to see how Hair Force One’s “Decade of Decadence” highjinks played on the other side of the mountain.
Apparently the reopened Pony Lounge is the current Johnstown live band hotspot, judging by the long line of people awaiting entrance outside the door. The door staff steadily moved the line forward, and I was soon inside to see what Hair Force One was up to.
Singer Victor Synn, guitarist Phillip DaPussee, bassist Peter Fitzwell and drummer G started into Bulletboys’ “Smoth Up In Ya” as I entered the room, and they had a good-sized contingent of folks already partying down on the dance floor. The 80’s hair-band favorites continued with the Poison double-shot of Talk Dirty to Me” and “Unskinny Bop,” Motley Crue’s “Shout at the Devil,” the Van Halen spin on “You Really Got Me,” and Quiet Riot’s take on Slade’s “Cum On Feel the Noize.” Then, a strange twist as the group started into Cinderella’s “Gypsy Road.” Offering a disclaimer and excusing himself from the stage, Victor explained that the group was about to do a song outside their hair-band scope; Peter then handled the lead voicings on Tone Loc’s “Wild Thing,” before the group veered back to finish “Gypsy Road.” Hen Victor introduced another surprise, introducing a Journey number, “Lovin’ Touchin’ Squeezin.’” Hair Force One then returned to their regularly-scheduled 80’s headbanging, closing out the set with Kix’s “Blow My Fuse.”
I shot the breeze with soundman Ray “onetooloud” Buksa during the intermission, while taking in the sight of the large Pony Lounge crowd. At least one bachelorette contingent was in the house, and at least one more would arrive before night’s end.
Soon Hair Force One was back, opening their nightcap set with Faster Pussycat’s “Bathroom Wall.” As the group then launched into Twisted Sister’s “I Wanna Rock,” one of the bachelorette parties joined the group onstage. The bachelorettes remained for much of the remainder of the set, as Hair Force One continued with Warrant’s “Down Boys,” Poison’s “I Want Action,” Cinderella’s “Shake Me,” and Motley Crue’s “Looks That Kill,” during which Victor stepped off the stage and took his presentation on a lap throughout the room. After Guns N’Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle,” the group set the Pony dance floor contingent to some serious headbanging with Accept’s “Balls to the Wall,” before closing out the show with Quiet Riot’s “Metal Health (Band Your Head).” The Johnstown masses didn’t want this party to end yet, and quickly beckoned the band to do one more, which Hair Force One answered with Def Leppard’s “Pour Some Sugar On Me.”
Hair Force One confidently delivered the party, clicking on all four cylinders along the way. Victor’s voice was in good form, and he constantly kept the crowd fired up and involved in the party. Instrumentally the group was on the mark, and kept things visually interesting on the stage as well. And again demonstrating one of their strongest points, Hair Force One delivered the SHOW, making this performance look, sound and feel like an actual concert event. Besides solid all-around musicianship, these guys were entertainers!
Johnstown Nation was loving it, with bachelorettes and other fans alike cheering, dancing and grooving along. One of the bachelorettes even gave me a smooch as she and her associates partied on by!
Bottom line, full decadence had been achieved, and Johnstown showed it was in good metal health this night, Hair Force One ignites the decadence on this side of the mountain as rowdily as they do on the ‘Toona side.
Hair Force One, bringing the decade of decadence to the Pony Lounge.
Flanked by a bachelorette contingent, Victor Synn of Hair Force One.
Again, Victor Synn of Hair Force One, surrounded by ladies.
The onstage dance party continues with Victor Synn, Peter Fitzwell and Hair Force One.
More onstage craziness with Hair Force One.
Yet again, Hair Force One and ladies.
Once again, Victor Synn and some bachelorette revelers.
Philip DaPussee of Hair Force One.
Yet more craziness with Hair Force One.
Peter Fitzwell of Hair Force One.
Victor Synn of Hair Force One.
G of Hair Force One.
Again, Peter Fitzwell of Hair Force One.
Again, Philip DaPussee of Hair Force One.
Again, G of Hair Force One.
A decadent moment towards night’s end, as Hair Force One’s Peter Fitzwell lets a lady handle his instrument.
Philip DaPussee and Peter Fitzwell of Hair Force One.
One more time, Hair Force One.
PITTSBURGH BLUES FESTIVAL @ HARTWOOD ACRES, PITTSBURGH 7/27/08
Although I had wanted to attend this event for years, the planets never aligned correctly and my schedule never cooperated until this year. Finally I would get to experience the annual Pittsburgh Blues Festival, held at Hartwood Acres north of Pittsburgh. Proceeds from this event benefited the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.
The first night of this Festival, Friday, followed a Louisiana Cajun theme, and featured Tab Benoit as headliner. Saturday’s headliner was Taj Mahal. And this day, while Tommy Castro was headlining later in the evening, the band I was most anxious to see was performing during the afternoon – Southern Culture On The Skids!
The travel contingent of Big Jim, Sparky D’Engineer and myself arrived at the Festival shortly after 2 PM, while the first band of the afternoon, Pittsburgh jam rockers theCause, were performing on the upper stage. We witnessed much of their set from afar (we visited the food area first), but they sounded good as they did a mixture of blues jams, Grateful Dead numbers and more. The group also welcomed special guests Jill Paone Simmons, Andrea Pearl, Patti Spadaro & Phil Brontz. Some of the highlights we heard included renditions of “How Sweet It Is,” “Big Boss Man,” and their spirited closing rendition of the Beatles’ “With A Little Help From My Friends,” with guest singers Bill Maruca (The Pawnbrokers) & Marci Brown (Sweaty Betty Blues Band).
We procured good vantage spots relatively close to the main stage to witness Southern Culture On The Skids’ (S.C.O.T.S.) set. The group appeared to arrive just shortly before their set was to begin, giving them just enough time to set up gear and start; this probably was a factor in an uneven sound mix early on. Still, guitarist/singer Rick Miller (clad in ballcap, T-shirt and checked Bermuda shorts), bassist/singer Mary Huff, drummer Dave Hartman and rhythm guitarist Tim Barnes brought the party with their trademark mixture of rockabilly, country twang, surf rock and southern trailer park imagery. After opening with the surf-ish instrumental “Skullbucket,” Southern Culture On The Skids fired through a variety of their favorites, including “Cadillac Blues,” “Mojo Box,” “White Trash,” “King of the Mountain,” “The Wet Spot,” “Too Much Pork for Just One Fork,” “Liquored Up and Lacquered Down,” “’69 El Camino,” “Dirt Track Date,” “40 Miles to Vegas” and more. Shortly into the set, the security folks – realizing that this was a good-time party and that moshing and crowd idiocy wasn’t a threat – opened up the stagefront barricade and allowed the audience to move up directly in front of the stage. Rick handled most of the lead singing duties, with Mary showing a sturdy voice on “Nitty Gritty,” “House of Bamboo,” and the set-closing “Daddy Was a Preacher But ama Was a Go-Go Girl,” where the band was joined onstage by a number of dancing ladies from the audience. Highlights were numerous between songs and humorous tidbits and antics offered up from the band along the way. While introducing “Corn Liquor,” Rick commented, “I don’t see any fruit jars just yet, but the day is still young.” There was the ‘fly’ double-shot of “Greenback Fly” and “Firefly,” with Rick stating that “the first firefly means the opening of mating season.” And after honoring an audience request for “Soul City,” there was the group’s showstopper “Eight Piece Box,” where several audience members were brought onstage to toss the contents of a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken out to the crowd. As I’ve experienced before, S.C.O.T.S.’ set was an absolute blast, with the group happily pounding out the tunes with smiles and enthusiasm. Their musicianship was strong through it all, and I liked the various distortion and reverb flavors Rick was getting out of his guitar. The uneven sound mix issue quickly took a backseat, as the group’s fun vibes, upbeat music and sense of humor convincingly won out. And what’s not to like about a band who shares a bucket of The Colonel’s finest with their audience? By my count, this was my fifth time seeing Southern Culture On The Skids, and based on the good time I enjoyed with them this day, it won’t be my last!
These folks found some shade beneath an Iron City beer trailer before the start of Southen Culture On The Skids’ set.
Kicking off their Pittsburgh Blues Festival performance, Southern Culture On The Skids.
Dave Hartman of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Decked in Bermuda shorts, Rick Miller of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Audience members are allowed inside the barricade to get closer to Southern Culture On The Skids.
Again, Rick Miller of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Again, Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Once again, Mary Huff.
Again, Dave Hartman of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Tim Barnes of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Rick Miller and Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids.
It looks like somebody broke out an “Eight Piece Box” with Southern Culture On The Skids.
A lady dons KFC bucket head attire alongside Rick Miller of Southern Culture On The Skids.
Some ladies celebrate chicken and music alongside Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids.
It’s more chicken and dancing onstage with Southern Culture On The Skids.
More KFC chicanery with Rick and Mary of Southern Culture On The Skids.
The party continues with Southern Culture On The Skids.
After the set, Big Jim, Sparky and I headed to the merchandise area to purchase CD’s (Sparky and I both procured copies of the group’s 2006 double-CD live set Double Wide Live) and meet the band. Again, S.C.O.T.S. were gracious and happily greeted and chatted with the fans, and we even got some photos taken with them.
A bass player summit: Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids and Big Jim.
Mary Huff autographs my CD.
Mary Huff of Southern Culture On The Skids and yours truly.
We then headed up the hill to the upper stage, where Pittsburgh bluesers The Pawnbrokers were under way. Singer Jon Pergal, guitarist Ric Proudfoot, keyboardist Bill Maruca, harmonica man Garth Asmussen, Joe and Sean McGuire on bass and drums offered up a strong set of straightforward blues; mixing original songs and select cover material. I didn’t catch much in the way of song titles, but was impressed as The Pawnbrokers cleanly and tightly swaggered their way through their song selection. Each of these guys was great at his respective role in the band, from Jon’s soulful wail to Garth’s greasy harmonica work, to the tasty solo displays from Ric and Bill, and the lean and tight rhythm section. This was my second time seeing The Pawnbrokers (the first was when they won the Pittsburgh Blues Challenge at Moondogs a few years ago, over a field including Fat Vinny & the Wiseguys), and this band definitely does their blues well – great stuff!
The Pawnbrokers entertain at the Pittsburgh Blues Festival.
Garth Asmussen of The Pawnbrokers.
Sean McGuire of The Pawnbrokers.
Jon Pergal of The Pawnbrokers.
Again, Jon Pergal of The Pawnbrokers.
Ric Proudfoot of The Pawnbrokers.
Once again, The Pawnbrokers.
Bill Maruca of The Pawnbrokers.
Again, Ric Proudfoot of The Pawnbrokers.
Joe McGuire of The Pawnbrokers.
Again, Sean McGuire of The Pawnbrokers.
Again, Garth Asmussen of The Pawnbrokers.
We then returned to the main stage to view one more group before our departure, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk. Namesake Ivan plays keys and sings, and is part of the New Orleans Neville musical family dynasty, as is his brother, Ian, who plays guitar and bass. Nick Daniels and Tony Hall also play guitar and bass, and Raymond Weber drums. As their name would suggest, Dumpstaphunk laid down the funk with a feisty, hard-nosed display, as they blended original numbers with funked-up remakes. This group frequently blended several songs together in spicy criss-crossing medleys, with their blazing musicianship keeping it exciting throughout. Some of the highlights included Dumpstaphunk’s funkified treatment of CCR’s “Fortunate Son,” and Raymond’s hot drum solo leading into a James Brown tribute.
Since Big Jim needed to return back to the ‘Toona to play bass with the Hurricanes later in the night, we departed towards the end of Dumpstaphunk’s set, and had to pass on seeing Jill West & Blues Attack and headliner Tommy Castro. But what we experienced this day at the Pittsburgh Blues Festival was splendid, with excellent summer weather, great music and a large, festive crowd combining to make it a great day. It was my first Pittsburgh Blues Festival, and I definitely plan to be back for more!
A huge crowd looks on as Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk kicks off their performance.
Nick Daniels, Ian Neville and Tony Hall of Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
More Dumpstaphunk.
More of Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
Ivan Neville.
Nick Daniels and Ian Neville of Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
Again, the guitar section of Dumpstaphunk.
The funk party continues with Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
Again, Ivan Neville.
Tony Hall of Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
Nick Daniels of Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk.
A huge audience looks on as Dumpstaphunk performs.
FELIX & THE HURRICANES @ SHAW’S BAR, ALTOONA 7/27/08
Since our roadtrip rendezvous point was the parking lot of my workplace, I logged an hour or so taking care of some Q94-related odds and ends, before heading to Shaw’s in Juniata to cap a great day of blues in fitting fashion, with Felix & the Hurricanes.
As mentioned earlier, Big Jim was filling in on bass this night, and he, lead ‘Cane Felix Kos on voice and guitar and Bob Watters on the drum kit were in the midst of their first set as I arrived. This edition of the Hurricanes was firing up a rowdy and receptive Shaw’s audience with tunes from Ted Nugent, Los Lonely Boys, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Allman Brothers, Santana, and the Canes’ own “Walking a Straight Line” to close the set.
As Felix opened the second set with a solo rendition of the title track to the Hurricanes’ first CD, The Feeling, a special guest, Half Tempted bassman Joe George, joined him onstage. As Bob rejoined the group, Felix and Joe took the journey on a spacey Doors-styled interlude, before the group arrived at ZZ Top’s “La Grange,” which stretched into an extended jam to the delight of the Shaw’s crowd. Joe remained for renditions of Jimi Hendrix’s “Fire” and Ted Nugent’s “Stranglehold,” before Big Jim returned to the stage to handle 4-string dutieson Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Pride and Joy,” Neil Young’s “Down By the River,” and the “Dixie”-prefaced rendition of Skynyrd’s “Gimme Three Steps” to close the set.
It was fun so far, with the Hurricanes sounding good on the musical end, and the Shaw’s rowdies at the front table providing an interesting sideshow. Well, it was Juniata…
The Hurricanes soon began the final chapter of the night in the country vein, with John Michael Montgomery’s “Sold (The Grundy County Auction),” and followed with Johnny Cash’s “Cocaine Blues.” The group returned to the Allman Brothers catalog for “Whipping Post,” and followed with Steve Miller Band’s “The Joker.” During Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Ballad of Curtis Loew,” Felix playfully did his own guitar rendition of Charlie Brown’s teacher from the Peanuts cartoons. The group finished out the night with a slow-bluesing rendition of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Look at Little Sister,” while a representative of Altoona law enforcement arrived in search of a possible patron who turned out to not be present. Well, it was Juniata…
Human dramas notwithstanding, the Hurricanes and their guests provided the fitting close to this day’s celebration of blues. It was another fun Sunday night session of Hurricaning!
With Joe George on bass, Felix & the Hurricanes.
With Big Jim on bass, Felix & the Hurricanes.
With Guv'nor Jesse and some dancers in front of the stage area, Felix & the Hurricanes.
Providing bass duties for the Hurricanes this night, Big Jim.
Jamming on guitar, Hurricane Felix.
Hurricane Bob.
Studying the map so he can find his way home at the end of the night, Guv'nor Jesse.
JP’s HAIKU
Half Tempted Wing-Off
Steve Oswalt goes Rusty Staub
Lights Out in Lakemont!
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