Kristen's Band Picks: Active Favorites Edition

Wondering what bands you've just got to catch in action this year?  Who's still rocking' stages around town and where can you find them? Here at Echoreyn of Athens, we decided to do something a little different this time around.  Presenting our local active band favorites!

Band: The Athens Band
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: These guys started out as some of the youngest rockers around town, but they've long since come into their own with a sound that hearkens back to classic hard rock and sets full of quality original tunes!

Band: Bambara
Status: Active
Usually plays at: the Caledonia Lounge
Description: They may live in New York now, but these melodic noise rockers always stop by Athens once or twice a year to blast our ears with their intense, eardrum exploding sound!

Band: Chris McKay
Status: Varies
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Chris McKay's band the Critical Darlings inspired me to create this blog years ago with their energetic show and classic soft rock sound.  Since then, Chris has been a part of many local bands, including popular Beatles cover band Abbey Road Live.  No matter the venture, Chris McKay always creates quality music!

Band: Doctor Squid
Status: Plays at Squidmas
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: With a sound chock full of happiness and shows that are fantastically fun, Doctor Squid has remained a longtime favorite.  Best known for their festive Squidmas shows, their pop rock sound is positively infectious!

Band: Dangfly!
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Dangfly! rocks every show with their dance-inducing folk style, infused with a gleeful mix of trumpet and fiddle.

Band: Efren
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Gritty folk at its best, Efren's sound holds within in it the strength and sorrow of a full life lived.

Band: Emily Hearn
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: If you haven't heard her sing yet, you'll fall in love with Emily Hearn's unbelievably sweet voice the moment you hear her first note. Her sound will blow you away!

Band: Feather Trade
Status: Active
Usually plays at: Go Bar
Description: Bright lights intermix with Feather Trade's dark alt-rock style tunes to create a fully immersive rock experience!

Band: Kenosha Kid
Status: Active
Usually plays at: Hendershots
Description: If jazz is your thing, Kenosha Kid is the band for you!  Voted best jazz band in town year after year, these guys infuse their sound with style and a sense of fun.

Band:  Lera Lynn
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Lera Lynn's strong, quality melodies and her band's twangy style always make for an awesome show!

Band: Sam Sniper
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Unique southern rock with a touch of folk and a sense of humor, Sam Sniper's got it all.  Don't miss your chance to dance along with the crowd and rock out to their tunes!

Band: Seven Handle Circus
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Every Seven Handle Circus show is a fun, one-of-a-kind experience.  Be sure to check out their bouncy, upbeat folk tunes!

Band: The Skipperdees
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: These talented twin folk singers serve up some of the best folk tunes around. You'll just love their soft, tangy sound!

Band:  Thayer Sarrano
Status: Active
Usually plays at: various venues
Description: Nothing can match up to Thayer Sarrano's sweet spoken word style melodies!

Band: The Warm Fuzzies

Status: Active

Usually plays at: various venues

Description: Take a step outside of the norm with the fun, indie style of the Warm Fuzzies! 

Band: Yip Deceiver
Status: Active
Usually plays at: the Georgia Theatre
Description: Nobody throws a party like Yip Deceiver.  Get ready to go wild and have fun!

Be sure to click the links above to visit each band's Facebook page and to find out about all of their upcoming shows!  Looking forward to a particular local show happening soon?  Share the details with the world in the comments below.   See ya around town, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Dance your way through December!

As the year comes to an end, our ears will ring joyfully with the final songs of 2013.  Come dance your way through December!

Tue, Dec 3: UGA Holiday Concert @ 8 PM @ Classic Center Theatre
Kick off the month and get yourself into the holiday spirit with a Holiday Concert courtesy of the UGA Symphony Orchestra!

Tuesdays in November: Kenosha Kid @ 9 PM @ Hendershot's Coffee
Every year Kenosha Kid wins the honor of best jazz band in town. If you haven't grooved to them yet, it's about time.  See them live at Hendershot's every Tuesday in December!

Wed, Dec 4: Cicada Rhythm @ 8 PM @ Melting Point
You'll just love the unique folk stylings of Cicada Rhythm!

Thu, Dec 5: SQUIDMAS @ 9 PM @ Caledonia Lounge 
WOW!  Doctor Squid, The Warm Fuzzies, AND The Skipperdees? With a lineup like this, it'll be a very Merry Squidmas indeed. You definitely won't want to miss this show!

Thu, Dec 5: Efren @ 10 PM @ Nowhere Bar
I've been following Efren's gritty sound since the beginning, and they're always worth a listen.  Check 'em out over at Nowhere Bar!

Thu, Dec 5: Yo Soybean, Madeline @ 10 PM @ Flicker Theatre
Yo Soybean will bring the rock and Madeline will add a touch of darkness to the night's southern-twinges tunes at the Flicker Theatre!

Fri, Dec 6: Abbey Road Live @ 9 PM @ Melting Point
Hey, all you Beatles fans out there…  You may have missed seeing the original band play a show, but Abbey Road Live keeps their sound going strong.  Catch these guys at the Melting Point on the 6th!

Sat, Dec 7: Holiday Yard Sale @ 11 AM - 5 PM @ 40 Watt
Ok, this may not be a show per say, but nothing says Athens like a yard sale at the 40 Watt while the bar is taking orders. Save money, schmooze, and booze at the Watt's Holiday Yard Sale this year!

Sat, Dec 7: Easter Island @ 10 PM @ The World Famous
Easter Island mixes drum beats and sweet vocals to create and awesome soft rock sound!

Sat, Dec 14: Thayer Sarrano @ 10 PM @ The World Famous
Thayer Sarrano weaves words into music in an incredibly unique and beautiful way.  Be sure to check out her show at the World Famous!

Thu, Dec 19: Dangfly @ 11 PM @ Georgia Theatre
One of my top Athfest favorites from this year, Dangfly's quality rock will definitely leave you dancing.  Best of all, this show is part of a free after-wedding celebration at the Georgia Theatre, so everyone is sure to be in a festive mood!

Sat, Dec 28: Brothers @ 10 PM @ Flicker Theatre
Classic meets indie when Brothers takes the stage.  See 'em over at Flicker near the end of the month!

Tue, Dec 31: The Whigs @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
The Whigs have got New Year's Eve covered with their hardcore southern rock sound!

Tue, Dec 31: New Year's Eve with Ghost Owl @ 10 PM @ The Green Room
Ghost Owl's powerful tunes and commanding beats will usher in the New Year like no other.  This show is sure to to be an awesome way to ring in 2014!

What a month this will be!  I can't believe it's almost 2014 already.  Just like always, if you've heard of another local show not listed here that you can't wait to attend, don't hesitate to comment below and let the world know all the details.  Make the most of this month, and I'll catch ya around town, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: September brings the tunes!

September has arrived, full to the brim with incredible shows.  Take a break from school and work to rock out to these awesome bands!

Wed, Sep 4: Kyshona Armstrong @ 8 PM @ The World Famous
Kyshona's powerful voice and soulful sound will blow you away!

Wed, Sep 4: Jubee and the Morning After @ 9 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Hip hop meets soul when these talented musicians hit the stage. Check them out at the Georgia Theatre!

Fri, Sep 6: The Gold Party @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
The Gold Party's got an electronic indie pop sound like no other.

Sat, Sep 7: Efren & Dangfly! @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Between Dangfly!'s trumpeting folk rock and Efren's gritty sound, this show features some of Athens' very best!

Sat, Sep 7: John French and the Bastilles @ 8 PM @ 40 Watt
John French and the Bastilles will serve up some quality southern rock over at the 40 Watt.

Sun, Sep 8: Viking Progress @ 7:30 PM @ The World Famous
Sweet distortion is Viking Progress's style.  You won't want to miss this show!

Tuesdays in September: Kenosha Kid @ 8 PM @ Hendershots
Without a doubt one of the best jazz bands in town, Kenosha Kid will be filling our ears with their awesome tunes every Tuesday of the month!

Thu, Sep 12: Yo Soybean @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Craving some badass southern rock?  Look no further than Yo Soybean!

Fri, Sep 13: Yip Deceiver @ 9 PM @ The World Famous
Yip Deceiver has arrived... Get ready to party!

Sat, Sep 21: Easter Island Vinyl Release @ 9 PM @ Georgia Theatre
What a night this will be!  Not only will soft rockers Easter Island be releasing their latest record, but they're also teaming up with Brothers and John French and the Bastilles to give us what is sure to be an unbelievable show!

Sat, Sep 21: Lullwater @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
Hard rock spiced up with a touch of folk, Lullwater is definitely one to see!

Mon, Sep 23: Little Tybee @ 9 PM @ The World Famous
People have been buzzing about these guys for a long time.  Check out the soft rock and indie style of Little Tybee!

Tue, Sep 24: The Skipperdees @ 7 PM @ The Melting Point
The twangy folk sound of the Skipperdees will rock the Melting Point's last Terrapin Tuesday of the month!

Fri, Sep 27: Powerkompany @ 9 PM @ The World Famous
Powerkompany will serenade you with their  ethereal electronic melodies as September approaches its end.

Wow, what a lineup of amazing shows!  Excited for another band playing locally that's not on this list? Go ahead and share the details with all of us in the comments below.  Hope you have a spectacular September on the scene, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Getting back to the August rock!

August is a time of change, so let our town's tunes be your rock in a sea of uncertainty.  Prepare your ears for this awesomeness!

Thu, Aug 1: Cicada Rhythm @ 8:30 PM @ Georgia Theatre

There's no better way to kick off the month than with Cicada Rhythm's unique lilting harmonies!

Thu, Aug 1: Brothers @ TBA PM @ Flicker Theatre

Old school-style rock with an indie pop angle, you'll love Brothers' sound!

 Fri, Aug 9: Lazer/Wulf @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge 
Lazer/Wulf's noise rock melodies will blast your ears with joy!

Sat, Aug 10: Efren @ 7:30 PM @ The World Famous

Folk rock at its gritty and raw best, Efren is always worth a listen!

Tue, Aug 13: The Viking Progress @ 8 PM @ WUOG

Head on down to the WUOG student-run radio station at Tate Center on the UGA Campus or tune in to 90.5 FM to catch the sweet distorted rock of the Viking Progress.

Fri, Aug 16: Ken Will Morton @ 4:30 PM @ Georgia Theatre
If you're craving a bit of an americana sound, Ken Will Morton is your guy!  Check out this daytime show during the middle of the month.

Fri, Aug 16: Seven Handle Circus @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

I've never heard another band like Seven Handle Circus.  Their bouncy, upbeat folk tunes are sure to put a smile on your face!

Fri, Aug 16: T. Hardy Morris and the Outfit @ 9 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
T. Hardy Morris is one of the most talented musicians in Athens, no doubt.  Get on over to the Caledonia Lounge for this show!

Sat, Aug 17: Dangfly! @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge 

There's no doubt you'll love Dangfly!'s trumpeting folk rock sound!

Thu, Aug 22: Powerkompany@ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

Electronic and ethereal, Powerkompany's melodies will blow you away!

Thu, Aug 29: Emily Hearn @ 7 PM @ Georgia Theatre

Nothing is sweeter than Emily Hearn's voice.  If you haven't caught one of her shows yet, now is the time!

Thu, Aug 29: Feather Trade and Death on Two Wheels @ 10 PM @ Green Room

What a wild combination!  Feather Trade and Death On Two Wheels both have dark alt rock sounds that should complement each other perfectly.  Best of all, this show is free!  You won't want to miss this one.

School may be starting soon, but with this lineup of bands, the fun of summer is showing no signs of slowing down!  Pumped for another local show not on this list?  Be sure to comment below and tell everyone all about it. Hope you have a wild one, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Forget the heat with July's wild tunes!

Finally recovered from all of June's insane shows and yearning to fill your ears with more spectacular tunes?  Well, July's got some wild shows in store for us too.  Don't miss these awesome bands!

Mondays in July: Kenosha Kid @ 8 PM @ World Famous

The ever-amazing jazz band Kenosha Kid continues its residency over at the World Famous every Monday in July.  Kick off your weeks with these guys!

Sat, July 13: Ruby the Rabbitfoot @ TBA @ Caledonia Lounge
Upbeat and sweet, Ruby the Rabbitfoot's sound is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Fri, July 19: Dangfly! & Efren @ 8 PM @ 40 Watt

Efren's gritty folk rock style has made them a longtime blog favorite, and after catching Dangfly!'s incredible eclectic rock set at this year's Athfest, we certainly can't wait to see them again.  What a lineup!

Fri, July 19: Stokeswood & Jubee and the Morning After @ 10 PM @ Georgia Theatre Rooftop

Hands down, our favorite discovery of Athfest 2012 was the mind-blowingly awesome Atlanta rock band Stokeswood, and the soulful hip hop act Jubee and the Morning After left us cheering our heads off at this year's festival.  Awesome combination (and FREE show too)!

Sat, July 20: Camp Amped Grand Finale @ 7 PM @ Nuçi's Space

Bring your whole family and friends out to support some of Athens' emerging musicians at Camp Amped's free July session Grand Finale!

Sat, July 20: John French and the Bastilles @ 8 PM @ World Famous

Soft pop mingles with quality southern rock in every show featuring John French and the Bastilles.  Check 'em out!

Mon, July 22: The Skipperdees @ 10 PM @ Flicker Theatre

Oozing with talent, the Skipperdees soft, twangy tunes are sure to leave you begging for more!

Fri, July 26: Tealvox @ TBA @ Caledonia Lounge 

Head on over to the Caledonia near the end of the month for some undeniably amazing rock courtesy of blog favorites Tealvox!

Wow, this month has got a whole bunch of can't-miss shows!  Got news of another rockin' local set you're just dying to see?  Comment below, and let everybody in on the details.  Have a crazy one, you guys!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Blast off your summer with May's rockin' tunes!

Summer is coming. Prepare yourself... And get your party on with this month's lineup of awesome bands!

 Sat, May 4: Thayer Sarrano @ 10:00 PM @ Caledonia Lounge 
Take a break before finals and check out Thayer Sarrano's set.  You'll just love her unique voice and incredible sound!

 Sat, May 4: Athens Band @ 8:30 PM @ Melting Point

I hope you've already got your tickets for the Athens band because these young local favorites are playing a sold out show at the Melting Point on the 4th!

 Mondays in May 6 - 27: Kenosha Kid @ 8:30 PM @ The World Famous

My favorite jazz band in Athens takes up residency at the World Famous every Monday in May!  Trust me, you'll love the fun, upbeat, and sometimes quirky sound of the ever talented Kenosha Kid.

Fri, May 10: Easter Island @ 9:00 PM @ 40 Watt

Easter Island's smooth vocals and rhythmic drumming drive their sweet, melodic rock sound.  Catch them over at the 40 Watt!

Sat, May 18: White Violet & Brothers @ 9:00 PM @ 40 Watt

From soft rock to indie tunes, this lineup has it all.  Make the most of the end of the school year with a White Violet and Brothers combo!

Sat, May 18: Efren @ 9:30 PM @ Green Room

Efren's southern style rock will take over the Green Room on the 18th.  Don't miss them in action!

Thu, May 23: Powerkompany CD release @ 9:00 PM @ The World Famous

The otherworldly strength of Powerkompany's tunes sets them apart from the rest.  Hear their latest songs at their CD release party at the World Famous!

Thu, May 23: Cicada Rhythm @ 9:00 PM @ Georgia Theatre rooftop

A free Cicada Rhythm show on the rooftop of the Georgia Theatre? Awesome.  Sounds like the perfect time to check out their unique folk style!

Fri, May 31: Manray @ 10:00 PM @ Caledonia Lounge 

Of course, there's no better way to finish the month than with those crazy noise rockers, Manray!

Are you guys ready for this?  Wow, May looks like it's going to be amazing!  As always, if you're totally pumped for another local show not listed here,  give the world all the details in the comments.  Have fun and go wild, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: April rocks its way in!

As the weather gets warmer, the shows get even more insane.  End your semester with these rockin' lineups!

Thu, April 4: Efren @ 7:00 PM @ The World Famous

Gritty Americana at its best, you'll want to start off your month with Efren!

Thu, April 4: Lazer/Wulf @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
Lazer/Wulf's melodic noise will drive you wild!

Fri, April 5: Modern Skirts @ 8:00 PM @ 40 Watt

An era in Athens music is coming to an end.  Don't miss the Modern Skirts' final 40 Watt show!

Sat, April 6: Brothers & Thayer Sarrano @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

With Brothers' indie take on a classic rock sound and Thayer Sarrano's one-of-a-kind singing style, this is a lineup you'll definitely want to catch!

Sun, April 7: Kyshona Armstrong @ 8:00 PM @ Hendershots

A weekly staple at Hendershots, Kyshona Armstrong's soulful sound will blow you away!

Wed, April 10: Adron @ 8:00 PM @ The World Famous

Adron's incredible voice dances delightfully through her band's fresh indie rock sound. Be sure to check them out at the World Famous!

Thu, April 11: The Peaks @ 8:00 PM @ The World Famous

One of my longtime favorites on the scene, The Peaks (formerly Tigerbird) will be taking the stage to share their jazzy folk sound with us.  Opening for Kite to the Moon, you've just got to see this show!

Thu, April 11: Betsy Kingston and the Crowns @ 8:00 PM @ 40 Watt

I still remember Betsy Kingston's powerful voice from last Athfest.  Catch Betsy and the rockin' Crowns at the 40 Watt!

Fri, April 12: Sam Sniper @ 11:00 PM @ Green Room

Another one of my Athens favorites, Sam Sniper's unique take on southern rock is one to hear!

Tue, April 16: Yip Deceiver @ 9:00 PM @ New Earth Music Hall

I can't see a Yip Deceiver show without dancing.  It's just not possible.  Get your groove on with them in the middle of the month!

Thu, April 18: Groove Tangent @ 9:00 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

I've been following this band's sound since the beginning.  Their time-travelling style will have you rocking through history!

Fri, April 19: Kishi Bashi @ 8:00 PM @ The World Famous

If you think that violin-playing can't be exciting, you've clearly never seen Kishi Bashi in action!  His amazing talent will leave you breathless.

Sat, April 20: Dead Confederate @ 9:00 PM @ 40 Watt

Gritty southern rock tinged with darkness, Dead Confederate always puts on a great show!

Sat, April 27: Lera Lynn @ 10:00 PM @ Georgia Theatre

Part of our town's Twilight Americana festival, Lera Lynn will headline Georgia Theatre's Saturday show with her strong and undeniably awesome rock sound!

Sun, April 28: John French and the Bastilles @ 7:00 PM @ Melting Point

Celebrate the final night of the Twilight Americana festival with the dark southern rock style of John French and the Bastilles!

Looks like this April's going to be a wild one.  Heard of any other awesome local shows happening this month?  Comment below, and tell the world about 'em.  See you around, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: March's shows will blow you away!

March breezes its way in, bearing gifts in the form of some absolutely incredible lineups and shows.  

Fri, March 1: Abbey Road Live! @ 8:00 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Are you a fan of the Beatles?  Well, then, kick off your month with the best Beatles cover band in town, Abbey Road Live!  This show will feature the always awesome Chris McKay as well, so be sure not to miss it!

Fri, March 1: Of Montreal, Yip Deceiver @ 9:00 PM @ 40 Watt
If you're in the mood for fun, this is the show for you.  With both Of Montreal and Yip Deceiver on the bill, you're guaranteed an insane, dance-filled celebration!

Sat, March 2: Efren @10:00 PM @ Green Room
Efren's gritty southern sound speaks volumes.  Catch his show at the newly redone Green Room!

Mon, March 4: The Skipperdees @ 10:00 PM @ Flicker Theatre
These girls have such talent!  Their brand of twangy folk is certain to put a smile on your face.

Wed, March 6: Ruby the Rabbitfoot @ 8:00 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Some of Athens' best, including the sweet Ruby the Rabbitfoot, will be taking the stage on the sixth to play one last big show before they all make their way to Texas for SXSW!

Wed, March 6: Little Tybee, Adron @ 8:00 PM @ Melting Point
Don't miss Little Tybee's CD release party at the Melting Point featuring the unique, indie rock of singer Adron!

Thu, March 7: Brothers @ 8:00 PM @ WUOG
From classic sounds to indie style tunes, this band's got it all!  Hear them on the radio at WUOG 90.5 FM or see 'em live at UGA's Tate Center in the WUOG station headquarters.

Thu, March 7: Sam Sniper @ 11:00 PM @ Farm255
Southern rock with a side of fun, Sam Sniper show is one to see!  Get yourself to Farm255 on the 7th.

Fri, March 8: Lera Lynn @ 8:00 PM @ The World Famous
Powerful rock and an incredible voice make every Lera Lynn show an amazing experience!  And be sure to check out her new PledeMusic campaign as well.  Let's make sure we keep the great tunes coming our way!

Fri, March 8: Feather Trade @ 9:00 PM @ Flicker Theatre
Misfortune500's newest incarnation, Feather Trade's got a deliciously dark, alt rock sound you're sure to love!

Fri, March 15: Madeline @ 8:00 PM @ The World Famous
A touch of darkness makes Madeline's melodies a great listen every time!

Fri, March 15: Viking Progress @ 11:30 PM @ Farm255
Check out Viking Progress's unique distorted sound over at Farm255 in the middle of the month!

Wed, March 20: Dangerous Ponies @ 11:00 PM @ Farm255
What are Philadelphia's Dangerous Ponies like?  Indie pop goes old-school with tunes that are sure to make you dance.  Pure beauty!

Fri, March 22: Bambara, Manray, Powder Room @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
Our favorite New York imports from our own town join some of the best wild local rockers on the scene. Bambara's noise rock will leave your ears screaming in ecstasy while Manray and the Powder Room will blast you into nonbeing with their sound.  What a lineup this is! 

Sat, March 30: Meat Puppets @ 9:00 PM @ 40 Watt
The nineties rock legends, Meat Puppets, return to the 40 Watt again to drive everyone nuts.  I saw them take the stage a few years ago, and I've never forgotten it!

Wow, what a month we've got in store for us!  There's no doubt about it... March is going to be awesome!  Know of any other rockin' local shows happening this month?  Comment below, and let the world know about them.  See ya downtown, my friends!

Athfest 2012: Efren rocks the heat!

Friday, June 22nd, 2012 
Efren (with Betsy Franck)

Slathered in sunscreen with my press pass in hand, I trekked my way through downtown to Washington Street, pumped for the official start of Athfest 2012.  Within minutes, I could tell that the heat during this year's festivities would be brutal, but I knew as long I could catch a lineup of killer bands, it would all be worth it.  Country band the Darnell Boys were just finishing up the first set of the day as I walked up, so I opted to collapse in the shade near the Manhattan Cafe and in front of the Hull Street Stage where Efren was slated to play next.

Now, I believe it's been several Athfests since I've seen Efren last, and boy, have they changed!  They seem a little less gritty and quite a bit more southern rock than I remember them, but their sound is still solid, for sure.  A few songs in, they brought powerful singer and another one of those musicians I saw in my early Athfest days, Betsy Franck, up onstage, and I've got to say, I just loved their tunes together!  And I definitely wasn't the only one who enjoyed them either.  Several ladies up front started going wild and dancing all over the place, and pretty soon, the rest of the crowd had joined in.

 Once the set ended, we got a bit of quality country folk from the guys in Corduroy Road over on the Pulaski Street Stage before the heat just became too much, and I opted to head to the shade of the Caledonia Lounge and check out the second annual Dirty Athens show.

  For all of our massive coverage of Athfest 2012, from preparation guides to articles on some of the best featured bands and shows, click here! More entries on all the bands and madness of the festival will be posted daily, so be sure to check back often. Plus, get ready for show footage and Athfest vlogs coming soon to the Echoreyn of Athens YouTube channel as well! 

Kristen's Concert Picks: February

For optimal viewing of these picks on a mobile device, click here!

The month of strength and heart is upon us, dear Athenians.  February is filled with tunes you're sure to love!

Thu-Sat, Feb 2-4: Athens Business Rocks @ 8 PM @ 40 Watt

In Athens, nearly everybody's a musician.  Most likely, that server at the restaurant rocks the guitar like nobody's business in his free time, and that store owner plays a mean bass on the weekends. Athens Business Rocks is a 3-day show that celebrates these hidden musical talents and raises money for Nuçi's Space at the same time. You can't beat that!

Fri, Feb 3: the Athens band @ 8:30 PM @ Melting Point

Over at the Melting Point, the young super rockers of the Athens band will be taking the stage with heavy metal band Anvil. You won't want to miss this show, that's for sure!

Mon, Feb 6: DJ Mahogany @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

Dying to catch another show at the Georgia Theatre, but running low on cash?  Well, then, I've got good news for you.  DJ Mahogany will be spinning the beats at the FREE Betsy Kingston and the Crowns album release party. Awesome!

Thu, Feb 9: Doctor Squid @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia

What's this? Doctor Squid is back to bring their joy-filled rock to the Caledonia once more?  Amazing news!

Fri, Feb 10: Abbey Road Live @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

Beatles fans of Athens, Abbey Road Live is back to rock the Georgia Theatre!  

Tue, Feb 14: Kishi Bashi @ 8 PM @ WUOG 90.5

As seen at past Of Montreal shows, this guy's got mad skills on the violin!  Check him out live on UGA's student run radio on Valentine's day. Perfect!

Thu, Feb 16: Modern Skirts @ 8 PM @ WUOG 90.5

Craving some Modern Skirts?  Great news!  You can hear their latest tunes live on WUOG 90.5 in the middle of the month.  Can't wait!

Fri, Feb 17: Of Montreal @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

The magical insanity you'll find at Of Montreal shows is unequalled.  Get yourself to the Georgia Theatre, and have a ridiculous time!

Fri, Feb 17: Lazer/Wulf @ 10 PM @ Caledonia

Need more dark noise rock in your life?  Lazer/Wulf is here to fulfill that need!

Sat, Feb 18: Athens Business Rocks Finale @ 8 PM @ 40 Watt

It's time for the Athens Business Rocks Finale. Excellent!

Sat, Feb 18: T. Hardy Morris & the Outfit @ 8 PM @ Melting Point

I've been yearning to hear more of T. Hardy Morris and the Outfit since their show at last year's Athfest.  Add in the Modern Skirts, and this show is a definite can't-miss!

Sat, Feb 18: Efren, Sam Sniper @ 11 PM @ Farm 255

Gritty, folk rock and southern jungle madness of the folk variety under one roof?  That's right!  Get yourself some Efren and Sam Sniper at Farm 255 on the 18th.

Tue, Feb 21: Grinnin Bear @ 8 PM @ WUOG 90.5

Folk tunes with a sense of fun, Grinnin Bear will be taking over the airwaves over at WUOG. Don't forget, you can catch 'em play live at the station in UGA's Tate Student Center!

Tue, Feb 21: Half Dozen Brass Band @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

The Half Dozen Brass Band knows how to have a good time.  Don't miss them!

Fri, Feb 24: Powerkompany @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

If strong but ethereal tunes are your style, Powerkompany's the band for you!

Wed, Feb 29: Androcles and the Lion @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia

Celebrate the leap day with a spectacular lineup of rockers featuring Androcles and the Lion, the Winter Sounds, and Sleepy Eye Giant.  Wow, what show this will be!

This is going to be quite a month!  As always, if you've heard of another incredible show happening in Athens this February, let us know all about it in the comments.  Have a wild time, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks: October creeps in with some spectacular songs!

For optimal viewing of these picks on a mobile device, click here!

The sweet smell of pumpkins and candy corn wafts through the air on the wings of a cool breeze. Leaves dress themselves in reds and golds as whispers of Fall echo in the dusk. October has arrived indeed, and the month comes bearing musical treats of all kinds!

Sat, Oct 1: Efren @ 10 PM @ Farm 255
Efren's gritty and honest take on folk rock is a refreshing way to start off the month. It'll be wonderful to hear their melodies again!

Thu, Oct 6: Kyshona Armstrong @ 8:30 PM @ Flicker
Don't miss your chance to catch Kyshona Armstrong's powerful and soulful vocals over at the Flicker Theater!

Thu, Oct 6: Shallow Palace & Sleepy Eye Giant @ 6 PM @ Max
I caught both of these bands a while back when they played with Misfortune500, and I just loved their rockin' sound. Trust me, you'll want to see 'em too!

Fri, Oct 7: Monahan & Ruby Kendrick @ 5:30 PM @ Nuçi's Space
Take Monahan's great indie rock with a southern flair, add Ruby Kendrick's soft and sweet melodies, and put them together in a lineup at Nuçi's Space, and you've got one awesome show!

Fri, Oct 7: Manray @ 10 PM @ Little Kings Shuffle Club
The dark, melodic rock of Manray is sure to blow you away. Check 'em out over at Little Kings!

Sat, Oct 8: Hope for Agoldensummer @ 8 PM @ Hendershots
In the mood for a few sweet melodies? Then Hope for Agoldensummer's your band!

Fri, Oct 14: Betsy Franck @ 9 PM @ New Earth Music Hall
Powerful songstress Betsy Franck is taking the stage again to give us more awesome southern rock tunes! Nice.

Wed - Sat, Oct 12-15: Popfest @ 1 PM @ Caledonia

Dying for another incredible festival? Then you're in luck! Popfest, a four-day event full of amazing bands, is taking over the Caledonia in the middle of the month. Some of our favorites on the lineup are Gold Party, Easter Island, Gift Horse, Buxton, Ruby Kendrick, and Viking Progress. Enjoy!

Wed - Sat, Oct 12-15: Popfest @ 7 PM @ 40 Watt

Guess what! Popfest isn't just confined to the Caledonia either. 40 Watt's got their share awesome bands playing as well. Our favorite will probably be rocker Madeline's set on Friday!

Sat, Oct 15: Abbey Road Live @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Looking for something to satisfy your inner Beatles fan? Then this cover band was made for you! At the ever-incredible Georgia Theatre, you can soak in the sounds of Abbey Road Live.

Thu, Oct 20: Sam Sniper @ 8 PM @ WUOG
On the radio again! Sam Sniper's unique style of rebellious folk rock is an absolute must. Listen in!

Fri, Oct 21: Lazer/Wulf @ 8 PM @ Caledonia
If dark, instrumental metal is the sound you've been seeking, look no further than Lazer/Wulf!

Fri, Oct 21: Efren, Charlie Garrett Band @ 8:30 PM @ the Melting Point
Folk rocker Efren's back for another show this October, and the Charlie Garrett band joins them with their own quality southern rock tunes! Excellent.

Sat, Oct 22: Dead Confederate @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Dead Confederate! Their thousands of fans can attest to the fact that their dark, southern rock is unequalled. See 'em and fall in love with 'em just like I do every time they play!

Fri, Oct 28: Jason Isbell @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Headliners at the last Athfest, Jason Isbell returns to Athens for another round of great tunes!

Sat, Oct 29: Wild Rumpus afterparty @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Halloween is Athens' holiday, and we celebrate it in a huge, ridiculous way! Don't miss the annual Wild Rumpus Parade through the streets of town, and then be sure to catch Packway Handle Band, Kite to the Moon, and much more at the Georgia Theatre afterparty!

Sat, Oct 29: Of Montreal @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

Another helping of Of Montreal? How did we get to be so lucky! Since a regular show with this band features insane costumes and tricks on any old day, you'd better believe a show this close to Halloween will be nothing less than spectacular! Buy your tickets early!

Mon, Oct 31: STS9 @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre
Speaking of big shows, this one's going to be huge! Now, I've never seen STS9 myself, but judging from the reactions I've seen, this is definitely big news. What a Halloween we'll get this year!

Wow, I'm extremely excited for all of the amazing shows October has in store for us! As always, if you know of another Athens show that's going to rock everyone's faces off this month, let the world know about it in the comments. Also, don't forget to click the "Monthly Concert Picks" button above to see any updates we'll add to this list as the weeks go by. See you guys, gals, and ghouls around the scene!

Athfest 2010: Efren's tunes tell a tale

Friday, June 25th, 2010 (after midnight)

Efren

Next to hit the stage was Efren. Now, although I reviewed and fully enjoyed his last album, I had no idea what to expect from this enigmatic, folk rock band. I have to admit, watching the band in Flicker Theatre's semi-darkness was perfect; they maintained their air of mystery even as I saw them playing before me. And, boy, was it fun! If I liked their recorded tunes, I really loved their live show. There was excitement there as the band gave each song a bit of a rock edge that truly made me want to dance. And the coolest part? These guys managed to incorporate the lo-fi quality of their recorded songs into their live sound as well. Simply awesome!

For all of our coverage of Athfest 2010, click here! I'll be blasting you with updates regularly, so be sure to check back often. Also, look out for Athfest concert videos and vlogs, coming soon to http://www.youtube.com/echoreynofathens!

Echoreview: Efren's Thunder and Moan

Album cover for Thunder and Moan

Efren has come to town, and he's not letting his arrival go unnoticed! This mysterious musician (and occasionally group of musicians) will be letting the world get their hands on his debut album Thunder and Moan on December 4th at the Flicker Theatre. So what's it like?

Efren's style has a heavy, folksy quality to it that pervades each tune on the album. Roots with occasional layered vocals, his sound is that of one who's lived through much and dug into the depths of his heart to share it with us. It's a clear home recording which certainly gives his songs a very indie feel. Here's the breakdown.

Father's Proof starts off the record with a quiet, spiritual journey through Efren's relationship with Jesus. Quite an interesting way to begin, I must say. The next tune Montana Scare, however, sounds much more like the other songs in the album. It ushers in the darker tunes on the record and, with a focus on alcohol and women, it's quite the trip into sinner's land after the first song. Bruised Tomatoes follows this with a unique rhythm that brings the listener on an incredibly vivid adventure. Without even closing my eyes, this song conjured up visions of rolling meadows and soft breezes. The twitter-ready tune entitled Pound Yr Chest brings a much more upbeat sound to the album followed by the quieter, very rhythmic See You Laugh At the Lights. Both are simple yet enjoyable listens.

For me, Advantages proved to be the low point of the album. Although I enjoy the dark quality and general tune of this song, its hard-to-understand lyrics prevented me from truly becoming engaged by it. One of the shorter songs on the CD, its heavy strumming seems a bit out of place in this part of the album. The following tune Cut My Hair, however, is probably my favorite on the record. Beginning with a gorgeous acoustic guitar intro that flows easily into the lyrical section of the song, it's the perfect piece to listen to on a dreary day as rain beats heavily upon your window. The chorus combines a very simple yet heart-wrenching set of lyrics with a peaceful tune and the occasional inclusion of an intriguing, unclassifiable sound that resembles anything from a sharp wind blowing to a woman screaming in the distance. Fascinating song.

The album's namesake, Thunder and Moan, emerges following Cut My Hair with a rather upbeat, danceable tune. Distinctly different from most of the previous songs on the album, it provides a technical turning point on the record. Nearly all of the remaining tunes retain a similar, positive vibe. After a short instrumental track, Hickory Bell picks up with a twangy, upbeat tune. This particular song about a less-than-talented musician introduces a bit of humor into the mix with lines like "he sounded like a dead goose." The slow and soothing Up in the Drifts song finishes out the album with layered vocals and a sense of completeness. This tune has a curious pop music feel to it that makes it stand out against all of the other songs on the record. Its sound is one of uplifting hope, the perfect ending to the album's tumultuous journey.

Essentially, Thunder and Moan truly describes the sound of the entire record. Don't miss your chance to experience this aptly-titled album live from start to finish this Friday at Flicker. Rumor has it you may even get a chance to get your hands on a free download of these songs if you attend!