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!

Athfest 2013: A slice of southern sound with Sam Sniper, Mama's Love, and Dank Sinatra

Saturday, June 22nd, 2013 
Sam Sniper 
Mama's Love 
Dank Sinatra

It's just been way too long since I've caught blog favorite Sam Sniper live.  Boy, was it good to be back!  Arriving just in time to hear the tune "Comfortable Hypocrisy," undoubtedly one of their very best, I settled in for a set of their awesome, one-of-a-kind southern rock. Jamming out a mix of familiar songs and brand new ones, they had all the fans pumped for more.  Everyone in the street got into their sound, and I even heard some people in front of me say that they had no doubt these guys would be big one day.  As their music mingled with yells of appreciation and joy from the crowd, I had agree.  Sam Sniper definitely has an incredible style!


Moments later, I found myself back at the main stage for a bit more folk rock, this time courtesy of Mama's Love.  With a fiddle added to the mix, their tunes were ripe for dancing!  Then it was back to that intimate pocket of Athfest that is the Hull Street stage for Dank Sinatra.  Their driving hard rock sound with a touch of distortion had me all smiles. They got the fans hooked early in their set, and there was even more excitement as the band added a taste of southern spice to their tunes.  Man, Athfest always has such amazing lineups on the outdoor stages!

For all of our massive coverage of Athfest 2013, 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, soon you'll be able to check out our show footage and Athfest vlogs up on the Echoreyn of Athens YouTube channel as well!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Fend off the cold with some rockin' bands this January!

We've made it to 2013, my friends!  It looks like it's going to be a cold one though.  Keep yourself warm and dance the night away with these awesome bands!

Fri, January 4: Yo Soybean @ 10:30 PM @ Farm 255
Start off your semester with a bit of southern rock courtesy of Yo Soybean over at Farm 255!

Wed, January 9: Ryan Cabrera, Tyler Hilton, Teddy Geiger @ 8 PM @ Melting Point

These guys from pop music's not-so-far-gone past have apparently joined together for an acoustic lineup of old favorites and new tunes.  Relive the days of your youth, and stop by the Melting Point to catch them live.

Thu, January 10: The District Attorneys & Ruby the Rabbitfoot @ 10 PM @ Green Room

There's nothing better than a free show!  Check out Flagpole Award winners The District Attorneys and the sweet sounds of Ruby the Rabbitfoot at the brand new venue The Green Room (175 N. Lumpkin Street) on the 10th.  

Fri, January 11: Dead Confederate @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

Want to hear Dead Confederate's latest tunes? The band joins John French and the Bastilles at the 40 Watt to play through their newest EP release!

Wed, January 16: Cicada Rhythm @ 8 PM @ New Earth Music Hall

Fill your ears with the standout, folky sound of Cicada Rhythm over at New Earth in the middle of the month!

Thu, January 17: Come What May @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Come What May rocks an intense, indie style that transcends genre.  You won't want to miss them!

Sat, January 19: Manray & Lazer/Wulf @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Craving even more explosive melodic noise?  Manray and Lazer/Wulf will be combining forces once again to take over the Caledonia on the 19th!

Sat, January 26: Seven Handle Circus @ 8 PM @ Georgia Theatre

What do get when you combine nearly every stringed instrument under the sun with a healthy dose of fun? The bumpin' folk tunes of Seven Handle Circus, of course.  One of my new favorites from last summer's Athfest, you've got to hear these guys in action!

Thu, January 31: Sam Sniper @ 8:30 PM @ Georgia Theatre

Finish out your January with the unique, southern-style rock of Sam Sniper over at the ever-incredible GA Theatre!  

What a way to kick off 2013!  Got another local show you're pumped for?  Post about it below so that everyone can partake in the awesomeness.  Enjoy yourselves!

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!

Good luck, my friends!

I know for many of you, it's that dreaded final exam time again!  Some of you may have already even started your test-taking journey while others will be finishing up this semester over the next week.  Either way, I heartily wish all of you good luck!

Need a study break full of Athens music goodies?  Just like always, you can get your fill of live footage over on our Echoreyn of Athens YouTube channel here!

Want some new tunes to download for your very own instead to help you with your studies?  I'll list some of this year's best free and pay-what-you-want offerings below!

Dead Confederate
the Athens band
Rainbow Ghost
Hans Darkbolt
Sam Sniper
Doctor Squid
the Warm Fuzzies

I'm sending good vibes your way.  I'm sure you'll all do an awesome job on your finals!

Echoreyn of Athens finally gets a Tumblr!

If you like to get your Athens music tidbits in picture and video form with the occasional blurb or unrelated whimsy sprinkled in, this one's for you!

You see, it recently came to my attention that the only thing missing in my life was a Tumblr account. Eager to fill this apparent hole in my existence, I naturally signed up for one right away. A few months later, I've decided that tumblr-ing (is that what they call it?) is actually kind of fun, so I thought I'd share my side blog with the rest of you cool kids too. Introducing Echoreyn of Athens: After Hours! It's like this blog but more casual, more laidback, and quite a bit more ridiculous. Don't be shy... Join the afterparty!

And hey, why just stop there? For even more playful Athens music tumblr-ing, I suggest you check out Athens Music Junkie's Tumblr too. Whenever I'm procrastinating, it's always one of my favorite hangouts, for sure.

Don't have a Tumblr? Well, luckily you don't need one to enjoy all of the insanity! And, as always, you can join us for more of our complete coverage of the scene on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube too. Hope you're rockin' our town in every way that you can, my friends!

Kristen's Concert Picks reminder... July's too rockin' for one post!

Know which show you're going to check out downtown tonight? The choices are unbelievable! We've got listings for Manray, Sam Sniper, Ye Olde Sup Shoppe, the Shut-Ups, the Athens band, and many more. And the fun doesn't stop there... We've just updated this month's concert picks list to include TONS more shows and bands that will be rocking stages all over town during the next few days. You can check out the list right here!

But wait! Have you got an iPhone, iPod, or other mobile device? Then we've got great news for you... Echoreyn of Athens has gone mobile! But it's not just the blog that you can read on the go. We've built a special mobile app, just for Kristen's Concert Picks! The link you need is

http://www.echoreyn.com/ofathens or you can just click on the picture below!

Hope to catch ya partying it up downtown, my pals!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Take a break from it all with July's tunes!

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

After the hundreds of bands and the insanity that has been and will continue to be this June, July sure seems pretty quiet. The shows we’ve got to look forward to, though, are guaranteed to be incredible! Weirdly enough, it looks like Sundays are joining the Fridays and Saturdays of the month to make these upcoming weekends chock full of rock. Exciting!

Fri, July 1: Hans Darkbolt @ 11 PM @ Farm 255
I’ve been searching far and wide for another theatrical alt rock band, and from what I’ve heard online of these guys, it seems I’ve hit the jackpot. Can’t wait to catch them live! And, if you miss this show, they’re also rocking the Caledonia stage on the 14th as well.

Sun, July 3: Yo Soybean @ 2 PM @ Melting Point
Got music festivals on the brain? Well, you’re in luck! The American Music Festival is giving us an incredible lineup of band after band on one ticket. Some of the highlights are sure to be Yo Soybean, Lera Lynn, Patterson Hood, and Packway Handle Band. Buy your tickets now on the Melting Point website: http://www.meltingpointathens.com

Fri, July 8: Little Tybee @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt
Little Tybee's soft indie sound has garnered all sorts of buzz lately. Check 'em out for yourself at the 40 Watt!

Sat, July 9: The Orkids, Tealvox, & Chris McKay @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
WOW, what a combination! The awesome rock of Tealvox and the newest incarnation of Chris McKay & the Critical Darlings meets the unbelievable pop sound of the Orkids for a show that’s sure to blow everyone away. Don’t miss this lineup of some of Athens’ best!

Sun, July 10: Vincas @ 8 PM @ Highwire Lounge
I just caught noise rock band Vincas in action for the first time last week, and I definitely liked what I heard!

Fri, July 22: the Athens band @ 8 PM @ New Earth Music Hall
Much buzzed about young rockers, Athens, will be ruling the stage at New Earth on Friday. If you haven't seen one of their shows yet, trust me, you won't wanna miss this one!

Fri, July 22: Sam Sniper @ 9:30 PM @ Flicker
A little bit country, a little bit rock with a funky style that that's all their own, blog favorite Sam Sniper's show is a must-see!

Fri, July 22: Turf War @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge
If you're looking for a fun, rock-filled show this Friday, Atlanta's Turf War is your band! You can see them at the Caledonia with rockers the Agenda.

Fri, July 22: the Shut-Ups @ 10 PM @ 40 Watt
Over at the 40 Watt, you can catch the fun, electronic stylings of the Shut-Ups with another purely rockin' set from Chris McKay and the Critical Darlings. What a lineup!

Thurs - Sat, July 21 - 23: Slop Fest @ 6 PM @ Little Kings
You haven't heard the last of the music festivals yet! Slop Fest 2011 will kick it in Little Kings Shuffle Club on this late weekend in July with a lineup of over 30 bands including awesome melodic noise rockers Xavii and Manray plus insanity-filled experience Ye Olde Sub Shoppe. Can't wait!

Sat, July 23: Camp Amped Session 2 Finale @ 7 PM @ Nuçi's Space
Want another taste of the future of the Athens music scene? Catch a glimpse of the youngest and newest emerging bands in our town at Camp Amped's Session 2 Grand Finale showcase. And since it's a free, all-ages show, bring your family and friends along too!

Sat, July 23: Daddy Lion @ 10 PM @ Flicker Theatre
I've heard a few tunes from South Carolina's indie musician Daddy Lion online, and now you can check them out too at Flicker on Saturday!

Fri, July 29: Bambara & Dead Confederate @ 8 PM @ Max Canada
Noise rockers Bambara join southern rockers Dead Confederate for a show that's going to be several different kinds of amazing! I've seen these two blog favorites perform together before, and I was blown away by the sheer incredible rock I experienced. Plus, Five Eight is on the bill as well. Trust me, you'll want to be there!

Well, it looks like July's got a few sure-to-be awesome shows in store for us! Don't forget, if you hear of a show that you want the world to know about, post in the comments and share it with us. And as always, check back often for any new shows that just might appear on this list throughout the month. Happy listening, you guys!

Video Week 2011: Sam Sniper: THIS, Comfortable Hypocrisy

Happy Wednesday, my friends! Today's artsy video comes to us from local country funk rockers Sam Sniper. Featuring dual tracks, the poetry-filled "THIS" easing into the rolling tune "Comfortable Hypocrisy", and overlaid with eerie and evocative imagery, this one is definitely quite an experience!



Dying to see more Athens bands rockin' the video scene? Check out all of the entries for Echoreyn of Athens' Video Week 2011 here!

Breaking all the boundaries with Dangerous Ponies

I was rather determined not to review any bands this week. After all, this is Video Week, my visually immersive break from show reviews and general observations on the scene. But the city of Athens had different plans in store for me. I chanced going to one show, a single night of music featuring today's music video creators, blog favorite Sam Sniper. Surely I would be able to resist whatever tune-filled magic the bands threw at me on this one night...

And I just might have succeeded in resisting had it not been for the Philadelphia band Dangerous Ponies. Apparently, the band had made a huge impression on the members of Sam Sniper during their last visit to Athens, and the rave reviews these guys gave me definitely had me intrigued. And I can promise you, they did not disappoint. To put it simply, the guys and girls of Dangerous Ponies masterfully defied conventions to show the crowd what a live show truly should be.

With seven members sporting some of the most insane getups I've seen outside of an Of Montreal show, including one girl in a ripped tiger-striped bodysuit, they had the attention of the audience from the beginning. Armed with three guitars, a bass, the drums, a keyboard, a children's xylophone, and a few tambourines, they burst into a set of solid indie dance pop tunes with a circa 1960s rock vibe that had the fans, not moshing or bobbing their heads as I've come to expect from my fellow Athenians, but full-on dancing, rhythm intermixed with wild abandon. It was a sight to behold! In just minutes, the crowd grew into a huge grooving mob of eager fans, a large portion of whom knew every word to the band's songs. For a group from Pennsylvania who have only made one stop in our town before this, the reaction of the crowd was simply awe-inspiring. With an incredible sense of fun, the band reciprocated the fans' love as the tambourine players waltzed with members of the audience, blew bubbles at them, and even gave them tambourines to play along with the band. And on top of it all, I had the chance to chat with several members of the band before the festivities began, and these musicians couldn't be any nicer. Wow. Just wow. Boy, do I wish Dangerous Ponies was an Athens band! I seriously can't wait till they come visit us again.

What's the word?

The Athens music scene is spilling over with news and unbelievable events this week! You're just about to experience CD releases, TV debuts, and Athfest news... Hold on tight!

First up, TONIGHT's episode of NBC's Parks and Recreation (9:30/8:30c) will feature the debut of a brand new track from our massive blog favorites the Beat Geeks! We've been following this party band's progress from their very first show this past September to their rockin' stint as the opener for Ludacris till now, and we knew they had star potential from the start. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Keep an eye on these guys! Oh, and be sure not to miss your chance to move your body to their tunes this Saturday at Bad Manor as well.

After you catch Parks and Rec, head on over to the 40 Watt TONIGHT for The Orkids/Tealvox show. Can't wait for this one! Tealvox's sound is made purely awesome rock, and the Orkids will leave you dancing and singing along to their catchy pop tunes. I'm so glad these two are touring together! It's truly a match made in scene heaven.

Itching to get your hands on some brand new albums? Well, this weekend, you're in luck! Sam Sniper releases their very first CD We're Not Coming Back This Way (as reviewed right here) this FRIDAY at the Caledonia, and Pholksinger Josh and Friends will be dropping their latest record Watermelon Mountain this SATURDAY at Go Bar (review coming next week). Two CDs in one weekend? Awesome.

And finally, we've got to share the big news coming our way from the people who'll be giving us Athfest 2011. We've got our headliners! Prepare your ears for the tunes and sounds of Centro-matic, Guadalcanal Diary, Chickasaw Mudd Puppies, Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit, and rockin' blog favorites Futurebirds. The anticipation begins! I can't wait for Athfest 2011. For more info, check out the official website here.

Party it up, my friends!

Echoreview: Sam Sniper's We're Not Coming Back This Way

At first, the country twang of Sam Sniper's melodies might seem like your standard Americana fare. But then whispers of pop and rock slide in with a hint of electronica to give their sound a style like no other. While Sam Sniper shares many of its members with local group Yo Soybean, this band has got more of an experimental and irreverent vibe that makes it an altogether different and quite intriguing creature. Already a fan favorite at their live shows, Sam Sniper releases their debut album We're Not Coming Back This Way next week. But how do these tracks compare?

Well, the record gets a strong start with the twangy, sweet ballad Heart, Beat. Although the track is much slower and a bit softer than I would have expected from the live versions I've heard of this largely acoustic tune, it proves to be an excellent beginning to the album. Then after a short, almost eerie transition track styled after a video game tune, the dark, rhythmic Cancertowne plays its way into our ears. Nearly unclassifiable, this song features southern pop and country rock influences as well as an electronic touch. Whatever the style, though, this song never fails to leave me dancing!

The next song When All Of Our Sins Are Good is an impromptu style, lo-fi creation that sounds like a bunch of men just began singing a melody of woe on the front porch. To be honest, I wasn't really feeling this track on my first listen. However, coupled with its polished followup song Bitter Heart's Radio, which runs with the same tune as the one before it, the effect is quite unique. It's almost as if the listener was in on the whole process from the song's conception to its place as a widespread country pop hit single. This second track also has female backing vocals that add a united strength to the tune.

Another transition track THIS breezes in next, featuring spoken poetry set against an eerie melody and the sounds of a night in the lonely country. Despite its marked difference from the rest of the album, I truly enjoy this one. Then THIS melts into Comfortable Hypocrisy, which is without a doubt my favorite track on the record. A rolling backing tune moves this song along as its brilliant lyrics wind themselves through the night until those nature sounds fade back into the listener's conscious.

Now in spite of my general resistance to all songs country, My Home, a rather traditional-sounding country song that graduates into an unexpected electric guitar solo with an almost schizophrenic rap section, is one of my other favorites as well. Captain Boughman comes next, rounding out my series of favorites and bringing with it a mysterious organ-style vibe layered on top of a country melody that gives birth to an eighties rock feel. It sounds insane, yes, but it just works!

A slower, introspective ballad, the next tune Country Blue sounds like the type of song you would listen to as you watched the rain pour outside your window. Then Love on the Run brings a classic sort of country rock to the mix before gaining a bit of a pop rock edge underscored by a romantic blues-style solo.

Loneliness ushers in the final three softer and slower melodies with an electronic keyboard tune accented by a bit of that old country twang. Then Best of Me lends a calm, acoustic sound to the album as one single voice joins with many to build a moving rhythm. Finally, following the trend of slow and soft tunes, the title track features a return to the lo-fi, blues-infused sound. This final song, highlighted by lyrics that frame the album's tunes with mentions of endings and an emphasis on a single repeated line: "not coming back this way", certainly provides a peaceful, fitting conclusion to this lawless, eclectic journey.

While most of my favorites from this album can be found near the beginning of the record, We're Not Coming Back This Way as a whole is a well-executed, cohesive album and definitely an awesome addition to any music collection whether you're a country fan or a fan of unique, expertly blended genres. To check out Sam Sniper for yourself, you can catch them at the Caledonia Lounge on Friday, April 15th for their album release party. Best of all, every person who attends gets a free CD! You won't want to miss it!

Kristen's Concert Picks: April's tunes thrive

It's April already? The year's passing by so quickly! The cold, dreary weather of early Spring will soon give way to days of warmth and sunshine, and everything around us will bloom and thrive. For those of us in the scene, this month's tunes are thriving too! There's just so many shows to pick from, and we love it that way!

Fri, April 1: Venice is Sinking @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Always a favorite, Venice is Sinking's soft but strong melodies are the perfect way to start off the month!

Fri, April 1: Futurebirds @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

In the mood for some righteous Southern rock? The Futurebirds have got ya covered with their April Fools set at the 'Watt!

Wed, April 6: Chris McKay and the Critical Darlings @ 8 PM @ The Melting Point

It's Chris McKay and the Critical Darlings 3.0! Chris's long-awaited return with the Darlings is sure to fill the Melting Point with awesome classic rock and boundless energy. Best of all, its proceeds go toward the relief effort for those affected by the disasters in Japan. What a great cause!

Fri, April 8: Bambara @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Bambara is, by far, one of my absolute favorite bands in the scene! Their raucous, noise rock style will awaken something native and carnal in your very being, and your soul will beg for more.

Thurs, April 14: Powerkompany @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Powerkompany is an ethereal serenade traipsing through darkness and light. Your ears are dying to experience their sound, trust me!

Thurs, April 14: The Orkids & Tealvox @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

The Orkids and Tealvox in one night? This is undoubtably one of those shows where the lineup alone promises an unbelievable night! Infectiously joy-inducing pop will dance through the 40 Watt with solid rock tunes. Excellent!

Fri, April 15: Sam Sniper CD release @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Sam Sniper's delectably intense country rock has made it one of my most recent Athens favorites. Releasing their very first album We're Not Coming Back This Way on the 15th with free copies for all who attend, this show is definitely a must!

Sat, April 16: the Athens band @ 8 PM @ The Office Lounge

Awesome youth rockers Athens (the band) are back to help raise funds for Nuçi's Space. Such a worthy cause! You won't want to miss this show!

Sat, April 16: The Shut-Ups @ 10 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

I loved the Shut-ups' joy-filled, electronic style when I saw them at the last Athfest, and I've been yearning to catch another set of theirs. Enjoy!

Sat, April 16: Pholksinger Josh CD release @ 10 PM @ Go Bar

So many bands I love are taking the stage this month! Pholksinger Josh's unique style of folk-insfused spoken word will most certainly make this show one to catch. Also, the band is releasing their newest album Watermelon Mountain that night too! Nice.

Sat, April 16: The Beat Geeks @ 10 PM @ Bad Manor

Get ready to move! The Beat Geeks are back to make you lose control on the dance floor. Don't miss your chance to catch these guys in action before they blow up big time!

Thurs, April 21: Taj Motel Trio @ 9:30 PM @ Caledonia Lounge

Ska returns to Athens in the form of the Taj Motel Trio. Get ready to skank till you drop to their fast-paced, classic tunes!

Fri, April 22: Dead Confederate @ 9 PM @ 40 Watt

I'm actually listening to Dead Confederate on my iPod right now. Why? Because their songs are just unbelievably awesome, and they never get old. If soft rock with a Southern twinge tickles your fancy, Dead Confederate is your band!

Oh man, Caledonia and the 40 Watt are serving up show after incredible show this April! What a month of music! Just like before, if you know of another rockin' Athens show you think the world should see, post in the comments and tell us all about it. And, of course, don't forget to keep checking the Concert Picks link at the top of the page throughout the month as we add new must-see shows to the list. Have an amazing April, you guys!

The Invisible Hand, some Naked Gods, and Sam Sniper walk into a bar...

Without fail, Athens becomes something of a desolate wasteland of emptiness every Spring Break. Nearly all of the students disappear into their respective hometowns and the music scene collectively makes for the ever-enticing SXSW festival in Austin, Texas. This year, however, those of us in Athens had quite a fine send off for the break in the form of two traveling visitors and our very own Sam Sniper.

Charlottesville, Virginia's the Invisible Hand stepped up to the plate first with a solid soft pop sound and fun, clever lyrics that wove expertly through their tunes. I definitely liked their style. This year's bands seem to all share a common bond of explosive energy, and the Invisible Hand was no exception. At one point, taking a moment from giving each song a bit of an indie feel with his classically sweet voice and rocking the guitar while the rest of the band went wild on their instruments, the lead singer leapt up onto one of the amps in true rockstar form. Nice! Also, at the request of some guys I met at the show, I must mention the sheer awesomeness of the other guitarist's tee. Jurassic Park forever! Man, I wish this band was local. I'd love to catch another show of theirs if I could.

Up next, hailing from Boone, North Carolina were the evocatively-named Naked Gods. A rock band with a definite southern twinge, this group's energy manifested itself most in their singer/harmonica player/ tambourine artist's antics. What a character! The floor of the Farm was literally shaking with the combined enthusiasm of this singer and the band's eager audience. I didn't even know such a thing was possible! Jumping into the crowd, he proceeded to give us the most enthralling show of tambourine usage I've ever seen in my life as he threw it around wildly and smacked it against the mic stand with gusto. Quite a sight, no doubt about it! These out-of-towners sure know how to put on a memorable show.

Local americana-dipped country rockers Sam Sniper finished out the night with an awesome set as always. Their voices and lyrics complement each other so perfectly! This time around, I was familiar enough with their sound to identify a few tune favorites in the mix. I've gotta say, I fully enjoy the songs Please Don't Do That and Comfortable Hypocrisy. Good stuff. What a night that was!

Kristen's Concert Picks: Spring Break 2011 Edition

Ah, to be a student again! Battling tests and projects and papers until the sweet moment of freedom comes to whisk you off to another land, be it home or somewhere exotic or even just the land of sleep and dreams. Spring Break starts today! But what does this mean for the Athens scene?

Well, for those of us still in town tonight, Farm 255's got an awesome show featuring country-meets-hardcore-rock band Sam Sniper to kick off the break. Excellent!

Headed out to Texas later in the week? I can honestly say I'm too jealous for words! Tons of our local favorites are going to be rocking shows in Austin, Texas for the massive South by Southwest festival. Be sure not to miss the all-day shows (starting at noon) at the Side Bar on the 18th and 19th featuring such spectacular bands as Bambara, Venice is Sinking, Reptar, Futurebirds, Gift Horse, Twin Tigers, and so many more!

Or maybe the Midwest is your destination? Well, if that's the case, Atlanta's rock superstars the Constellations have got you covered with shows in Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Minnesota! For more info on those, check out their Facebook page here!

Or perhaps you're trekking to Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Well, you're in luck! You have the chance to catch the Winter Sounds as they rock the stage with the one and only Allison Weiss, queen of the Athens music scene turned NYC darling. Mark it down: Club Cafe on the 19th! Too cool.

Know of any other Spring Break shows around town or even around the world featuring some of our local favorites? Don't let us miss them! Be sure to comment below and share the tune-filled love.

And party on, my friends! Party on.

Surviving the cold with Androcles and the Lion, Sam Sniper, and Nate Nelson

Saturday night found me traversing through the icy cold air once more, excitement for the tunes keeping my fingers from freezing off. I feel like hypothermia is the order of the day when it comes to bands this season. But hey, you can't miss a chance to see a potentially awesome band just because there are icicles forming on the tips of your hair.

Now, I rarely write about the shows that I see outside of downtown, but the tunes owned Saturday night, and ignoring the highlights would simply be a crime! Androcles and the Lion was the first band that thawed out my ears a bit and caught my notice. Giving us a taste of soft, dark, and melancholy rock, their melodies pierced through the chill and and curled into the ears of those basking in the heat of the roaring fire a short ways away.

The next band ready to combat the cold was local music project Sam Sniper, a group that shares members with folk rockers Yo Soybean. Now I'll admit, as I'm not generally much of a country fan, I probably wouldn't have gone to see them otherwise, but I never pass up an opportunity to check out the side projects of the bands I like. It's one of the best ways to make new discoveries, after all! And, lucky for me, these guys were good. Sam Sniper surpassed all of my expectations by launching into a set full of country love songs fused with the most awesomely intense, hardcore rock. I know that sounds a bit insane, but their tunes were seriously tons of fun to experience and the crowd was definitely on my side. Everyone around me was dancing wildly, very nearly forgetting their frozen limbs in the excitement. I'd even hazard to say that it may have actually been worth freezing my feet so much that I still can't feel them two days later. Good stuff.

Then it was off to Farm 255 to finish the night. As my friend and I stepped into warmth, we caught the last few sweet bars of Nate Nelson's set. It was quite a fine ending to an extremely chilled evening.