RockabillyView By Jennifer Allsup
Three bands you should check out in 2014, Lets’ start with our local Rockabilly band “Darlin Clementine”.
Tess Body had a moment in her crazy music world to chat with me about their exciting news for 2014.
Darlin’ Clementine started out as Tess and Devon Boyd doing an open mic at The Cow Track. Tess wrangled Devon into doing it, but afterward, people were asking where they were playing next. It sorta got out of hand from there; adding Lance Martinez on bass and Steve Manson on drums and, in time, creating the sound that has set them apart from other local acts. In a short time since, they’ve made a name for themselves kicking around..
Recently, they signed on with Northern California-based, and nationally known, Hi-Ho Silver Records. The Boyds have been friends with Rick Torres (of Rockin’ Rick and the Rhythm Wranglers and co-founder of Hi-Ho Silver Records) for a few years and the timing couldn’t have been better to sign with them. Hi-Ho Silver has just joined forces with London and Berlin-based label, Rhythm Bomb Records, a move that will take many of their artists over-seas. Recording has already begun for Darlin’ Clementine’s freshman release on Hi-Ho Silver and new music is being written to continue the forward momentum of the group. Release date TBA. A tour is planned following the release to promote the album and generally spread the gospel of Clementine.
It’s a must see show, a three-piece band, that loves Rockabilly along with punk and Surf. These three gentlemen decided to mix the genres together. ”The Chop Tops” Santa Cruz based Sinner (vocal & stand up drummer), Shelby (Lead Guitar) and Brett(Stand Up Bass) are no strangers to playing Modesto and aboard. The Chop Tops have headlined their own National tours and have open for many greats such as John Lee Hooker and Chuck Berry. Performing large music festivals as well “Vans Warp Tour” and “Viva Las Vegas” to add under their belts. I suggest you wander yourself up to Jamestown on Jan 11 at the “Gypsy Shack” and see what you might have been missing. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.
Let’s switch it up a bit. Adding a little American Punk Rock to our souls. Guttermouth. .Yes, the name serves them well. Since 1988 when Mark Adkins started the band in Huntington Beach, Ca. Guttermouth has no slack when it becomes to releasing records. They have released nine full length albums and two live albums since 1988. Touring around the states. As for many bands Guttermouth has also had the experience of playing “Vans Warp Tour”in 2004. I remember in the past year when “Guttermouth” opened for “Reverend Horton Heat” in Modesto. Their stage presence was off the charts and had the crowd jumpin & slammin’ the dance floor. If American Punk Rock is your thing, I suggest you check them out on Jan 30th at The Brewhouse/Hero’s along with local support of ICK three young talented men showing they can strut their stuff as well. Also on the bill for the night are PinATA PROTEST and Trashboat. Super excited to watch the shenanigans on stage that night. All ages starts at 7pm $12 in advance/$15 at the door or purchase on-line at brownpapertickets.com.
Not only should you support local and traveling musicians. Support local artist that have another trade that fit the music scene in Modesto and beyond. I know of two local artist trying to do their part and share what’s most important to them….art !
Also, a HUGE thank you to Brook Bailey from Foundation Tattoo for painting our Rockin’ Christmas facades! Art programs continue to disappear and specialty art programs are becoming less accessible to these that can’t afford tuitions, fees, or even art supplies. The AYNIA project hope to produce a beautiful collection of the kid’s art, class photos, personal travel photos, sketches, funny stories and interviews with established artists on what motivated and inspired them to follow their path and eventually become successful in their field.
They will not only visit youth facilities, group homes and after school programs during their travels, but also hold local workshops to share knowledge and hopefully spark a creative fire that continues to burn throughout their adult lives. Brook and David will work with kids talking about different techniques, color theory, as well as the creative process. They will provide art supplies to keep, some of their own reference materials and mostly, a lasting desire to continue on an artistic path. The first class was held a couple weeks and was a huge success!!
Please go and find more information and ways to donate or contribute on their blog: Allyouneedisartproject.com they’re going to be using this blog throughout, their travels to keep you updated with any new info, classes and photos. Although their Kickstarter did not successfully fund, they raised enough money to apply for a Non Profit and move forward with hope.
You can find all these artists on Facebook etc… Please SUPPORT the ARTS & May you have a fabulous NEW YEARS !!!!!
