With 32 bands on two stages over two nights, this weekend's festival at West Ottawa High School meshes experienced groups with up-and-coming high school acts.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins March 22, 2017
When lo-fi indie rock band Lipstick Jodi of Grand Rapids played the Holland-area WO-Stock Festival for the first time last year, the group found a new, teenage audience for its music, and much more.
"It was a super rewarding experience. Not only was the sound great, but we gained a great younger fan base that night," lead singer and guitarist Karli Morehouse said of the student-run event held each year at West Ottawa High School.
"All the kids are so excited and want to be involved in the bands that they're seeing, regardless of knowing any of the music personally or not. It really warmed my heart to give them something to relate to."
So, not surprisingly, Lipstick Jodi is eager to head back to WO-Stock this weekend, joining dozens of other in-demand West Michigan bands on stage such as Red Legs, The Smokin' Dobroleles, All is Well, Midwest Skies, Fried Egg Nebula, Vinylicious, I Believe in Julio, Mavericks and Monarchs, and Likemelikeyou, along with many emerging young, high school-age bands.
The wildly popular annual event takes place Friday and Saturday nights, with 32 bands playing two stages. And if that doesn't quite seal the deal, the entire event is a fundraiser for a charitable cause.
Read more on WO-Stock and the charitable cause it supports in the full article, only at Local Spins!
Sunday, June 4, 2017
Saturday, May 27, 2017
Local Spins Music News Excerpt: "Country singer Brian Lorente will quit the band, devote more time to family, songwriting"
The uber-popular Michigan country artist will leave his band, The Usual Suspects, this fall after releasing a new album and completing one final tour.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - March 7, 2017
After almost 10 years of touring the Midwest with his Michigan-based country group The Usual Suspects, lead vocalist and guitarist Brian Lorente is calling it quits later this year to spend more time with his family.
After one more CD release and a final set of live dates in Michigan, Illinois and Ohio through September, Lorente plans to leave the band and devote his musical efforts to songwriting. But The Usual Suspects will go on without Lorente, as he said he'll be turning over the microphone to vocalist Kurt Stone.
Lorente started The Usual Suspects and nurtured the band over the past decade through personnel changes. He was at the core as manager, accountant, booking agent, and marketing director, while holding down a full-time job and family life.
"With all of that, there is no time to sit back with my guitar or a pad of paper and create," Lorente said. "I am actually excited for the chance to sit back and become a storyteller again, and to kind of re-find that guy who loves songwriting.
"I have learned it is possible to stay alive in music, and not be on the road all the time. But it is a new field that I still have a lot to learn about: Live streams, videos, and status updates will be the main way to keep in touch with my fan base, but every once in a while, I am sure I will get an itch to the stage again, so I promise not to drop off the face of the earth."
Read more about Lorente and his announcement, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - March 7, 2017
After almost 10 years of touring the Midwest with his Michigan-based country group The Usual Suspects, lead vocalist and guitarist Brian Lorente is calling it quits later this year to spend more time with his family.
After one more CD release and a final set of live dates in Michigan, Illinois and Ohio through September, Lorente plans to leave the band and devote his musical efforts to songwriting. But The Usual Suspects will go on without Lorente, as he said he'll be turning over the microphone to vocalist Kurt Stone.
Lorente started The Usual Suspects and nurtured the band over the past decade through personnel changes. He was at the core as manager, accountant, booking agent, and marketing director, while holding down a full-time job and family life.
"With all of that, there is no time to sit back with my guitar or a pad of paper and create," Lorente said. "I am actually excited for the chance to sit back and become a storyteller again, and to kind of re-find that guy who loves songwriting.
"I have learned it is possible to stay alive in music, and not be on the road all the time. But it is a new field that I still have a lot to learn about: Live streams, videos, and status updates will be the main way to keep in touch with my fan base, but every once in a while, I am sure I will get an itch to the stage again, so I promise not to drop off the face of the earth."
Read more about Lorente and his announcement, only at Local Spins!
Local Spins Concert Preview Excerpt: "New York roots-folk group Driftwood brings punk-rock spirit to new album, Michigan tour stops"
Touring behind its fifth album, "City Lights," Driftwood plays four Michigan shows this week, including a Friday concert at Spring Lake's Seven Steps Up.
By Matt Marn
Violinist Claire Byrne of the New York roots-folk band Driftwood calls it "a new adventure."
Driftwood washes up along the Lake Michigan shore this week, exuding a punk-rock spirit as it tours behind its new CD, "City Lights."
The band plays Black River Tavern in South Haven on Thursday and Seven Steps Up in Spring Lake on Friday, followed by stops in Petoskey and Traverse City.
"You never really know what to expect. You go into each tour as part of a new adventure," Byrne told Local Spins, noting the band plays an average of 100 shows a year. "That way, you are ready for anything, with no specific expectations."
"City Lights," the five-member band's fifth CD, was released in November. Byrne, who joined the Binghamton, N.Y.-based band in 2008, said she thinks it gives her songwriting a chance to shine.
"I think the songs I have on this record reflect a woman going through a great shift in her life, settling down a bit, and reflecting on the many different ways that affects me and my relationships with others," Byrne said in a recent interview, adding that her songwriting style has evolved over the past five or six years.
"What once was more exclusively country, folky tunes, I have begun to branch out more, with Driftwood and the group album in mind. It's exciting to be bringing tunes to a group like Driftwood. You bring your own songs to the others, and they kind of put their own bits of themselves in there, as well.
Now, it's not only my song as an individual songwriter, but it is also my song, as a part of Driftwood. It is fun to see how it evolves into that finished product."
Read more about Driftwood and their new album, only at Local Spins!
Friday, May 26, 2017
Local Spins Album Review Excerpt: "Holland natives flying high in Nashville as Midnight Pilot, put 'heart and soul' into new EP"
With deep roots in West Michigan, Midnight Pilot band members are finding key connections in 'the center of the music universe' as they create some engaging indie-rock/Americana music.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - January 13, 2017
Grant Geertsma and brothers Kyle and Kris Schonewill have been playing music since they were all in middle school in West Michigan.
And over the years - no matter where they were - they still made getting together and making music a priority.
That hasn't changed a bit.
Along with bandmate Dustin Wise, the group now based in Nashville and going by the name Midnight Pilot releases a new EP, "Hold On," today (Jan. 13).
Geertsma and the Schonewill brothers all graduated from Holland Christian High School - Geertsma and Kyle Schonewill in 2007, with Kyle's brother Kris walking across the same stage in 2009. Kyle studied audio engineering at Belmont University in Nashville after high school, and decided to stay put after he graduated there.
For Kris and Geertsma, Nashville seemed a fun new place to try for a while - especially to make their brand of indie-Americana music.
"It is the center of the music universe, so it is a great place to start a musical career," Kyle Schonewill said. "We love it here. All of our connections in music are here, and we have top-notch recording studios directly at our fingertips at all times."
With 'Hold On,' the band aimed for a relaxed, narrative approach. Inspired by artists like Beck and Randy Newman, Schonewill said the singer-songwriter vibe is a bit different for group members. The new EP has more band wallop than their 2014 EP, 'Let Go,' but less rock 'n' roll than their full-length, self-titled 2015 album or their 2016 EP, 'The Good Life.'
"We like to vary up our sounds per EP," he said. "On 'Hold On,' we are probably most proud of the arrangements of everything - especially the strings."
Schonewill said over the years, the group has worked hard to grow its name, mounting a few small tours and playing some memorable shows. But it remains heavily focused on making lots of new music.
"We have just naturally been drawn into making music," he said. "We feel like that is where our strengths lie, and the creation of the record is our favorite part."
Read the rest of the full Midnight Pilot review of their new EP, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - January 13, 2017
Grant Geertsma and brothers Kyle and Kris Schonewill have been playing music since they were all in middle school in West Michigan.
And over the years - no matter where they were - they still made getting together and making music a priority.
That hasn't changed a bit.
Along with bandmate Dustin Wise, the group now based in Nashville and going by the name Midnight Pilot releases a new EP, "Hold On," today (Jan. 13).
Geertsma and the Schonewill brothers all graduated from Holland Christian High School - Geertsma and Kyle Schonewill in 2007, with Kyle's brother Kris walking across the same stage in 2009. Kyle studied audio engineering at Belmont University in Nashville after high school, and decided to stay put after he graduated there.
For Kris and Geertsma, Nashville seemed a fun new place to try for a while - especially to make their brand of indie-Americana music.
"It is the center of the music universe, so it is a great place to start a musical career," Kyle Schonewill said. "We love it here. All of our connections in music are here, and we have top-notch recording studios directly at our fingertips at all times."
With 'Hold On,' the band aimed for a relaxed, narrative approach. Inspired by artists like Beck and Randy Newman, Schonewill said the singer-songwriter vibe is a bit different for group members. The new EP has more band wallop than their 2014 EP, 'Let Go,' but less rock 'n' roll than their full-length, self-titled 2015 album or their 2016 EP, 'The Good Life.'
"We like to vary up our sounds per EP," he said. "On 'Hold On,' we are probably most proud of the arrangements of everything - especially the strings."
Schonewill said over the years, the group has worked hard to grow its name, mounting a few small tours and playing some memorable shows. But it remains heavily focused on making lots of new music.
"We have just naturally been drawn into making music," he said. "We feel like that is where our strengths lie, and the creation of the record is our favorite part."
Read the rest of the full Midnight Pilot review of their new EP, only at Local Spins!
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Local Spins Concert Coverage Excerpt: "'Tonight Will Be Fine': Langhorne Slim proves it with powerful performance at St. Cecilia
The first "Acoustic Cafe Folk Series" concert of the season brought the Americana artist to the refurbished St. Cecilia Music Center stage on Thursday.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - November 18, 2016
Armed only with a guitar, a solitary figure on a stool managed to fill a mostly bare stage in Grand Rapids on Thursday with powerful tales, humor and moving tributes.
A truly invested performer, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim not only delivered stories behind many of the songs, but performed each one with passion at St. Cecilia Music Center on Thursday night for a solo acoustic performance that kicked off the 2016-2017 Acoustic Cafe Folk Series.
Langhorne also was very candid, even humorous, in the rapport he built with his audience, leaving the room laughing on more than a few occasions.
But he also knew how to deliver raw emotion to every seat in the house. Discussing his beloved grandparents on more than one occasion, he played a special song close to his heart toward the end of the show.
The original song was dedicated to the three grandparents he had lost, as well as the grandmother he still holds close back home, a song he calls "Song For Sid," which asks in the chorus: "Where do the great ones go when they're gone?"
The moving tribute had some tears flowing among those seated in the refurbished Royce Auditorium (that Langhorne apparently had asked to keep darkened as much as possible).
Read more on Langhorne Slim's Grand Rapids concert, with photo gallery, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - November 18, 2016
Armed only with a guitar, a solitary figure on a stool managed to fill a mostly bare stage in Grand Rapids on Thursday with powerful tales, humor and moving tributes.
A truly invested performer, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim not only delivered stories behind many of the songs, but performed each one with passion at St. Cecilia Music Center on Thursday night for a solo acoustic performance that kicked off the 2016-2017 Acoustic Cafe Folk Series.
Langhorne also was very candid, even humorous, in the rapport he built with his audience, leaving the room laughing on more than a few occasions.
But he also knew how to deliver raw emotion to every seat in the house. Discussing his beloved grandparents on more than one occasion, he played a special song close to his heart toward the end of the show.
The original song was dedicated to the three grandparents he had lost, as well as the grandmother he still holds close back home, a song he calls "Song For Sid," which asks in the chorus: "Where do the great ones go when they're gone?"
The moving tribute had some tears flowing among those seated in the refurbished Royce Auditorium (that Langhorne apparently had asked to keep darkened as much as possible).
Read more on Langhorne Slim's Grand Rapids concert, with photo gallery, only at Local Spins!
Local Spins Concert Preview Excerpt: "Langhorne Slim launches solo tour of 'raw, dirty, soulful' music in Grand Rapids"
With a new blend of rock/folk/pop, Langhorne Slim opens a series Thursday that will now also feature Los Lonely Boys, Pokey LaFarge, Margo Price and Marc Cohn. Read the Langhorne Slim interview, get series details.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - November 15, 2016
Nashville singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim never gave much thought to how he first began in music or what inspired him.
He just always knew he needed to do something, staying active rather than just staying still.
And he certainly is very grateful the opportunity came along.
"This life is full of emotion; I am just glad I had this outlet," he said.
Using his signature folk, rock, and pop blend to impress crowds across the country, including festivals such as Lollapalooza and South by Southwest, it's safe to say this outlet of music and songwriting has served him well so far.
Having recently relocated to Nashville, he just last year released a critically acclaimed album, "The Spirit Moves," with his band, The Law.
This close group of men he calls brothers has been with him through a lot and his drummer, Malachi DeLorenzo, has been with him for more than a decade. He recounts the many times his band managed to cram an unimaginable load of instruments, amps, and gear into his grandmother's Toyota Camry, and hitting the road to their next gig.
"In life, you find your people - your family - and something like that is for sure worth having," he said.
Read more of Langhorne Slim's preview, as well as later coverage of the show, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - November 15, 2016
Nashville singer-songwriter Langhorne Slim never gave much thought to how he first began in music or what inspired him.
He just always knew he needed to do something, staying active rather than just staying still.
And he certainly is very grateful the opportunity came along.
"This life is full of emotion; I am just glad I had this outlet," he said.
Using his signature folk, rock, and pop blend to impress crowds across the country, including festivals such as Lollapalooza and South by Southwest, it's safe to say this outlet of music and songwriting has served him well so far.
Having recently relocated to Nashville, he just last year released a critically acclaimed album, "The Spirit Moves," with his band, The Law.
This close group of men he calls brothers has been with him through a lot and his drummer, Malachi DeLorenzo, has been with him for more than a decade. He recounts the many times his band managed to cram an unimaginable load of instruments, amps, and gear into his grandmother's Toyota Camry, and hitting the road to their next gig.
"In life, you find your people - your family - and something like that is for sure worth having," he said.
Read more of Langhorne Slim's preview, as well as later coverage of the show, only at Local Spins!
Local Spins Concert Coverage Excerpt: "Jason Isbell exudes 'something more' than just country charm in inspiring Grand Rapids show"
The acclaimed Americana artist touring behind his latest album, "Something More Than Free," left the DeVos Performance Hall crowd mesmerized on Monday
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - October 4, 2016
It's rare when a room of 2,000-plus people falls absolutely silent, hanging on every word from a solitary man strumming an acoustic guitar, bearing his heart with his songwriting.
And it can be just as compelling to see exuberant fans jump and scream for every beat of a high-powered, uptempo rock song, played to perfection by a full band.
The crowd that witnessed Jason Isbell on Monday night at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids got plenty of both in the same show.
Fans sang along as Isbell led his band, The 400 Unit, through many of the Americana-fueled singer-songwriter's most familiar material, including songs from his newest release, "Something More Than Free."
His set followed a powerful, crowd-pleasing start from opening act Josh Ritter, who warmed up fans in style, with the acoustic guitarist accompanied onstage by an electric guitarist, a drummer, and an upright bassist. Oozing country twang, the veteran singer-songwriter's impressive tunes brought the audience to its feet, cheering, before the headliner even took the stage.
While Isbell had the audience laughing more than once with his banter, the Alabama native let his music do much of the talking.
And while many might consider his music as occupying the country end of the musical spectrum, Isbell and The 400 Unit displayed great versatility in their approach. So, a heartfelt acoustic ballad dedicated to his wife that left the crowd deeply moved was followed by a song that had Isbell plugging in his Telecaster to shred a bluesy guitar solo.
And for that, the crowd stayed up and cheered long after the lights came on.
Read more on Isbell's GR concert, as well as photo galleries from the show, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - October 4, 2016
It's rare when a room of 2,000-plus people falls absolutely silent, hanging on every word from a solitary man strumming an acoustic guitar, bearing his heart with his songwriting.
And it can be just as compelling to see exuberant fans jump and scream for every beat of a high-powered, uptempo rock song, played to perfection by a full band.
The crowd that witnessed Jason Isbell on Monday night at DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids got plenty of both in the same show.
Fans sang along as Isbell led his band, The 400 Unit, through many of the Americana-fueled singer-songwriter's most familiar material, including songs from his newest release, "Something More Than Free."
His set followed a powerful, crowd-pleasing start from opening act Josh Ritter, who warmed up fans in style, with the acoustic guitarist accompanied onstage by an electric guitarist, a drummer, and an upright bassist. Oozing country twang, the veteran singer-songwriter's impressive tunes brought the audience to its feet, cheering, before the headliner even took the stage.
While Isbell had the audience laughing more than once with his banter, the Alabama native let his music do much of the talking.
And while many might consider his music as occupying the country end of the musical spectrum, Isbell and The 400 Unit displayed great versatility in their approach. So, a heartfelt acoustic ballad dedicated to his wife that left the crowd deeply moved was followed by a song that had Isbell plugging in his Telecaster to shred a bluesy guitar solo.
And for that, the crowd stayed up and cheered long after the lights came on.
Read more on Isbell's GR concert, as well as photo galleries from the show, only at Local Spins!
Local Spins Artist Spotlight Excerpt: "Grand Haven's Room Full of Elephants mixes styles, works to inspire others with its music"
The band has taken its roots-based rock music to the next level, with members pushing comfort levels to create "a new different sound." The group makes its SpeakEZ Lounge debut Wednesday.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - September 27, 2016
Some members of the Grand Haven band Room Full of Elephants have played together for nearly a decade, while others have joined the group only recently.
Regardless of tenure, they can't wait to see where they are headed next.
What began as a duo grew into something greater over time. Room Full of Elephants vocalist Matt Spofford said he and drummer Chris Sabota used to play gigs together as part of a trio that later disbanded.
Spofford said that for a band's survival, it is important to find members with not only similar styles and schedules, but also the same passion.
"Everyone has a reason they aren't in a band anymore," Spofford said. "These bands grow tough to stay together and to thrive sometimes, We need to really practice, and have our game put together. The audience deserves that."
As time went on, Spofford hosted an open mic night, and a player came out one night that caught his attention. Dustin Mason had been playing guitar for years, with a musical background full of influences from Sublime to Bob Marley to Jack Johnson. Those influences - as well as plenty of hints of jazz and R&B - snuck into his songwriting.
When Mason was welcomed into what would become Room Full of Elephants, it was the first time he had played with a band.
"I showed up and started playing once a week with them," Mason said. "It quickly became pretty organic. I started playing Matt's songs, so I got to develop my rhythm guitar skills as we went."
Spofford said that with a hybrid blend of his original songs, and now Mason's original songs, the group was able to add variety to its style.
"For the longest time, the sets were our songs between the two of us, with the rest of the band supporting and adding in their own styles," Mason said. "We played some pop-up festivals and a few house parties, but something was still missing. We needed a media kit: a demo CD to apply for slots at higher-end gigs and venues."
They locked in a recording session with producer Bleu Van Dyke. Spofford said Van Dyke was not afraid to add his own thoughts, pushing the group and even adding his own licks and performances along the way.
"His ear for elaboration and his harmony stood out to me right from the beginning," Mason said. "I realized that is what we had been missing."
The group soon asked Van Dyke to be its bassist. He quickly learned their original songs to catch up with the band, and it only got better from there.
"Bleu took our group to the next level, 100 percent," Mason said.
Read more on Room Full of Elephants in the complete artist spotlight article, only from Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - September 27, 2016
Some members of the Grand Haven band Room Full of Elephants have played together for nearly a decade, while others have joined the group only recently.
Regardless of tenure, they can't wait to see where they are headed next.
What began as a duo grew into something greater over time. Room Full of Elephants vocalist Matt Spofford said he and drummer Chris Sabota used to play gigs together as part of a trio that later disbanded.
Spofford said that for a band's survival, it is important to find members with not only similar styles and schedules, but also the same passion.
"Everyone has a reason they aren't in a band anymore," Spofford said. "These bands grow tough to stay together and to thrive sometimes, We need to really practice, and have our game put together. The audience deserves that."
As time went on, Spofford hosted an open mic night, and a player came out one night that caught his attention. Dustin Mason had been playing guitar for years, with a musical background full of influences from Sublime to Bob Marley to Jack Johnson. Those influences - as well as plenty of hints of jazz and R&B - snuck into his songwriting.
When Mason was welcomed into what would become Room Full of Elephants, it was the first time he had played with a band.
"I showed up and started playing once a week with them," Mason said. "It quickly became pretty organic. I started playing Matt's songs, so I got to develop my rhythm guitar skills as we went."
Spofford said that with a hybrid blend of his original songs, and now Mason's original songs, the group was able to add variety to its style.
"For the longest time, the sets were our songs between the two of us, with the rest of the band supporting and adding in their own styles," Mason said. "We played some pop-up festivals and a few house parties, but something was still missing. We needed a media kit: a demo CD to apply for slots at higher-end gigs and venues."
They locked in a recording session with producer Bleu Van Dyke. Spofford said Van Dyke was not afraid to add his own thoughts, pushing the group and even adding his own licks and performances along the way.
"His ear for elaboration and his harmony stood out to me right from the beginning," Mason said. "I realized that is what we had been missing."
The group soon asked Van Dyke to be its bassist. He quickly learned their original songs to catch up with the band, and it only got better from there.
"Bleu took our group to the next level, 100 percent," Mason said.
Read more on Room Full of Elephants in the complete artist spotlight article, only from Local Spins!
Local Spins Preview Excerpt: "Grand Haven's Ladyfest at the Lakeshore 2016 to spotlight female West Michigan voices"
Saturday's day-long event at Grand Armory Brewing showcases musical talent, poetry and more. Learn more in the Local Spins on WYCE Podcast with Ladyfest performers and new tracks by regional artists.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - September 23, 2016
It's a day to celebrate and spotlight female voices from West Michigan, from women who lead bands to female singer-songwriters and poets.
The first-ever Ladyfest at the Lakeshore takes place 2-11 p.m. Saturday at Grand Armory Brewing, 17 S. 2nd St. in Grand Haven. The one-day festival will feature musical performances by about a dozen acts, a discussion about women composers and an open-mic showcase.
The lakeshore celebration is a spin-off from the popular Ladyfest GR that celebrated its fifth year in March.
"The event keeps growing, from nine featured acts, both bands and solo singer/songwriters, and even local poetry," said organizer Jessica Fogle, who also performs as Jessica in the Rainbow. "We will feature a variety of music styles in our performances, as well as an 'emerging songwriter' showcase and open mic, where people can come in, put their name down on our sign-in sheet, and share their own talents, as well."
Read the full preview article on Ladyfest at the Lakeshore 2016, only at Local Spins!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins - September 23, 2016
It's a day to celebrate and spotlight female voices from West Michigan, from women who lead bands to female singer-songwriters and poets.
The first-ever Ladyfest at the Lakeshore takes place 2-11 p.m. Saturday at Grand Armory Brewing, 17 S. 2nd St. in Grand Haven. The one-day festival will feature musical performances by about a dozen acts, a discussion about women composers and an open-mic showcase.
The lakeshore celebration is a spin-off from the popular Ladyfest GR that celebrated its fifth year in March.
"The event keeps growing, from nine featured acts, both bands and solo singer/songwriters, and even local poetry," said organizer Jessica Fogle, who also performs as Jessica in the Rainbow. "We will feature a variety of music styles in our performances, as well as an 'emerging songwriter' showcase and open mic, where people can come in, put their name down on our sign-in sheet, and share their own talents, as well."
Read the full preview article on Ladyfest at the Lakeshore 2016, only at Local Spins!
Saturday, April 29, 2017
Local Spins Venue Spotlight Excerpt: Grand Armory Brewing embraces unique setting, live music with one-year anniversary, festivals approaching
Appealing to both the daytime coffee crowd and the evening music/draft beer devotees, Grand Armory Brewing and the other businesses within this downtown building make this a fun hangout
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins August 30, 2016
As a brewery and a live music venue, Grand Haven's Grand Armory Brewing boasts an atmosphere unlike any other area establishment.
When I first entered the building on a recent visit, lively soul music was playing over the sound system. The front door to the seating area, off the building's lobby, first greets you with Aldea Coffee at the Armory. The coffee bar, complete with its own separate staff, espresso and drink equipment, and even T-shirts and other merchandise, is open 7 a.m. -6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. -7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 8 a.m. -4 p.m. Sunday.
Beyond Aldea lies the main seating area of the venue. Industrial-styled Edison light bulbs hang from the center of the tall, lofted ceiling. Old pictures of the building in its earlier days at the center of historic downtown Grand Haven hang on the wall behind the music stage.
Off to the side of the seating room, a window looks into a food-prep kitchen, where Righteous BBQ sits ready to serve up fresh, amazing recipes - and rather quickly, considering how busy they were that evening. For the record: try the nachos. They are a true crowd-pleaser, but if you're going alone, trust me: the half order will do just fine.
Up the stairs in the center of the room, there's a loft featuring a more secluded seating area, with a great vantage point to people-watch and enjoy the musical features. And on the other side of the second level sits the Armory Art Center, an art gallery and studio that is open to the public, holding frequent events where community members can attend and flex their creative muscles.
In the back of the main seating level sits the Grand Armory Brewing bar. Full of original craft beers, complete with fun, creative names and labels, it sets the Grand Armory name right among other heavy-hitters in the West Michigan craft brewery scene - and all in just over a year.
Read the full Venue Spotlight on Grand Armory Brewing in the full Local Spins article, here!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins August 30, 2016
As a brewery and a live music venue, Grand Haven's Grand Armory Brewing boasts an atmosphere unlike any other area establishment.
When I first entered the building on a recent visit, lively soul music was playing over the sound system. The front door to the seating area, off the building's lobby, first greets you with Aldea Coffee at the Armory. The coffee bar, complete with its own separate staff, espresso and drink equipment, and even T-shirts and other merchandise, is open 7 a.m. -6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m. -7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, and 8 a.m. -4 p.m. Sunday.
Beyond Aldea lies the main seating area of the venue. Industrial-styled Edison light bulbs hang from the center of the tall, lofted ceiling. Old pictures of the building in its earlier days at the center of historic downtown Grand Haven hang on the wall behind the music stage.
Off to the side of the seating room, a window looks into a food-prep kitchen, where Righteous BBQ sits ready to serve up fresh, amazing recipes - and rather quickly, considering how busy they were that evening. For the record: try the nachos. They are a true crowd-pleaser, but if you're going alone, trust me: the half order will do just fine.
Up the stairs in the center of the room, there's a loft featuring a more secluded seating area, with a great vantage point to people-watch and enjoy the musical features. And on the other side of the second level sits the Armory Art Center, an art gallery and studio that is open to the public, holding frequent events where community members can attend and flex their creative muscles.
In the back of the main seating level sits the Grand Armory Brewing bar. Full of original craft beers, complete with fun, creative names and labels, it sets the Grand Armory name right among other heavy-hitters in the West Michigan craft brewery scene - and all in just over a year.
Read the full Venue Spotlight on Grand Armory Brewing in the full Local Spins article, here!
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Local Spins Link: "Grand Haven's Walk the Beat seeking bands and songs for August festival, aims for biggest spectacle yet
In its third year, Walk the Beat wants to sign up 70 bands to play 35 venues and will host another song contest, with $12,500 in prizes for musicians at stake.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins March 25, 2016
The idea began as an inspired dream to provide musical instruments and resources to those who could not afford them otherwise.
But in its third year, the effort has grown into a year-round, nonprofit organization known as Walk the Beat.
The Aug. 20 Walk the Beat Festival will feature 70 bands and singer/songwriters - many of them local - performing at 35 businesses in Grand Haven. The 2015 event had 60 acts playing 30 venues.
"The festival is in its third year now," said Dave Palmer, founder and executive director of Walk the Beat. "The first year was good, and the second year doubled in attendance from the first. And we plan to double in attendance this year, again."
Organizers are now seeking and accepting applications from bands and songwriters. Registration is now open online at walkthebeat.org for bands as well as sponsors/venues. Seventy acts will be selected from the pool of applicants to participate.
Read more on the background of Walk the Beat in the full 2016 preview article at Local Spins... and stay tuned to Local Spins for updates on the festival's 2017 plans, which should be even bigger!
Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Local Spins Sneak Peek: "KISS gets patriotic, loud, fiery, and 'Psycho Circus' theatrical in Grand Rapids tour stop
By Matt Marn
Lights flashed, fire raged all across the stage, and the four iconic members of KISS descended from raised platforms down onto the stage to greet the crowd. The group dove straight into their beloved hit, "Detroit Rock City," and rabid fans were up on their feet, screaming.
Most stayed that way all night.
Playing familiar titles from albums new and old all across their career, the legendary rock n' roll group - bass player Gene Simmons, guitarists Paul Stanley and Tommy Thayer, and drummer Eric Singer - uncorked an over-the-top night full of trademark theatrics to wow the crowd, backing it up with blazing guitar solos, thundering work from the drum kit, and the confidence of seasoned entertainers.
Read more about this theatrical, fiery concert in the full article, posted by Local Spins!
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Grand Haven braces for Season Two of "Music at the Museum" series
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins August 10, 2016
It all started with a little red house.
Locally organized concerts have helped put Grand Haven on the musical map, thanks in large part to the Red House Concert Series and the wildly successful first season of Music at the Museum, held at the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in downtown Grand Haven.
Now the museum staff, together with organizers of the Music at the Museum series, are ready to play the second verse of this hit song they have written, together with the announcement of another edition of the popular concert series.
Read more on the announcement, as well as the season schedule, on the full Local Spins article!
Published by Local Spins August 10, 2016
It all started with a little red house.
Locally organized concerts have helped put Grand Haven on the musical map, thanks in large part to the Red House Concert Series and the wildly successful first season of Music at the Museum, held at the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in downtown Grand Haven.
Now the museum staff, together with organizers of the Music at the Museum series, are ready to play the second verse of this hit song they have written, together with the announcement of another edition of the popular concert series.
Read more on the announcement, as well as the season schedule, on the full Local Spins article!
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Diana Ross hits all the right notes for passionate crowd at Meijer Gardens
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins July 26, 2016
Long before the gates opened early at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park on Monday to usher in the capacity crowd of fans, ticket holders understood they were in for something special.
They knew that the Queen of Motown, Diana Ross, was not far away.
And part of that royal family - Ross' daughter, Rhonda Ross - opened the concert, starting with a rendition of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly with His Song," accompanied by a band and backing vocalists.
"I am so thrilled to be here as a part of my mother's show," she told the crowd during a short set that included a few songs from "In Case You Haven't Heard," her latest album. "I've learned, it doesn't matter what's going on around me, only I can decide how I feel."
Rhonda said she considers herself a social artist, one who uses her music to help make people think and add to the social conversation. She began a lively, upbeat jazzy tempo medley, including another favorite, "You've Got the Best of My Love," which had much of the audience clapping along with her music.
By the time she left the stage, the crowd already was cheering eagerly for the main performer of the evening to take the floor. As the band came out to take their places, fans rose to their feet, clapping for her grand entrance.
Read more about Ross' grand entrance and Meijer Gardens show at the full article on Local Spins!
Published by Local Spins July 26, 2016
Long before the gates opened early at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park on Monday to usher in the capacity crowd of fans, ticket holders understood they were in for something special.
They knew that the Queen of Motown, Diana Ross, was not far away.
And part of that royal family - Ross' daughter, Rhonda Ross - opened the concert, starting with a rendition of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly with His Song," accompanied by a band and backing vocalists.
"I am so thrilled to be here as a part of my mother's show," she told the crowd during a short set that included a few songs from "In Case You Haven't Heard," her latest album. "I've learned, it doesn't matter what's going on around me, only I can decide how I feel."
Rhonda said she considers herself a social artist, one who uses her music to help make people think and add to the social conversation. She began a lively, upbeat jazzy tempo medley, including another favorite, "You've Got the Best of My Love," which had much of the audience clapping along with her music.
By the time she left the stage, the crowd already was cheering eagerly for the main performer of the evening to take the floor. As the band came out to take their places, fans rose to their feet, clapping for her grand entrance.
Read more about Ross' grand entrance and Meijer Gardens show at the full article on Local Spins!
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Old Crow Medicine Show turns Meijer Gardens amphitheater into backyard party
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins July 15, 2016
From the very first song, Old Crow Medicine Show set the bar high.
The bluegrass/folk/country band's headlining set thursday night at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park captivated young and old alike in the sold-out amphitheater, including longtime fans wearing shirts from tours and shows past and children enjoying their first concert of many to come.
After an opening acoustic set from Alabama songwriter duo Secret Sisters, Old Crow Medicine Show jumped right in with a fast, upbeat tempo, getting the crowd cheering from the get go. Trading bluesy solos from one instrument to the next, the group members seemed to feed off the member who played before them, then build on it as the song flew on.
Read the full article about the concert at Local Spins!
Published by Local Spins July 15, 2016
From the very first song, Old Crow Medicine Show set the bar high.
The bluegrass/folk/country band's headlining set thursday night at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park captivated young and old alike in the sold-out amphitheater, including longtime fans wearing shirts from tours and shows past and children enjoying their first concert of many to come.
After an opening acoustic set from Alabama songwriter duo Secret Sisters, Old Crow Medicine Show jumped right in with a fast, upbeat tempo, getting the crowd cheering from the get go. Trading bluesy solos from one instrument to the next, the group members seemed to feed off the member who played before them, then build on it as the song flew on.
Read the full article about the concert at Local Spins!
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Singer/Songwriter Matt Gabriel takes eclectic, diverse approach on new EP, 'Fiction'
On his newest recording, the Grand Rapids artist aimed to "write something different." He'll perform those genre-spanning songs and more compelling material along the lakeshore in coming weeks.By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins
It starts fast and energetic, coming at listeners with a country twang, like an Old West train robbery.
That was the scene that West Michigan singer/songwriter Matt Gabriel envisioned while writing the first track on his new EP, "Fiction."
That renegade image fits perfectly - not only with the song, but with the entire album - because Gabriel refuses to let himself be pigeonholed into one style or genre.
"I'm always trying to write something different," Gabriel said. "I'm surprised how people don't get bored, staying all within one genre, not even branching out simply for their own enjoyment."
The 27-year-old Jenison native's EP is versatile in the tone of its songs, an impressive feat considering there are only three tracks on the recording. The first, "True North," is a faster-paced, upbeat song, full of country twang in the guitar licks. The track's lyrics deliver a message about breaking ranks with what should be, in favor of following your own path instead.
Read more about this EP, and Matt Gabriel's songwriting style, on the Local Spins website!
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Channing & Quinn embrace Michigan as duo's new home on 'Up North' album, revel in audience-pleasing, multi-instrumental shows
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins
When West Michigan's Channing Lee and Quinn Mathews throw an album release party, they do it right.
From singing along to songs to tapping feet and even dancing off to the side of the stage, the crowd clearly had a blast at the duo's "Up North" album release party last week at the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in downtown Grand Haven.
Channing & Quinn's new album is the first written completely in Michigan since the duo moved to Grand Rapids after a nine-year stint in Nashville. They saw the phrase "Up North" as one that's often associated with vacations, or at least relaxing and having a great time with loved ones in the Great Lakes State.
Indeed, it was.
Read the rest of the concert coverage and album review on the Local Spins website!
Friday, May 6, 2016
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Grand Haven Walk the Beat seeking bands and songs for August festival, aims for biggest spectacle yet
In its third year, Walk the Beat wants to sign up 70 bands to play 35 venues and will host another song contest, with $12,500 in prizes for musicians at stake. Check out the back story and links to sign up.
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins
The idea began as an inspired dream to provide musical instruments and resources for those who could not afford them otherwise.
But in its third year, the effort has grown into a year-round, nonprofit organization known as Walk the Beat.
The Aug. 20 Walk the Beat festival will feature 70 bands and singer/songwriters - many of them local - performing at 35 businesses in Grand Haven. The 2015 event had 60 acts playing 30 venues.
"The festival is in its third year now," said Dave Palmer, founder and executive director of Walk the Beat. "The first year was good, and the second year doubled in attendance from the first. And we plan to double in attendance this year, again."
Read the full article - and follow the information to sign up your group for Walk the Beat - at the full Local Spins website!
By Matt Marn
Published by Local Spins
The idea began as an inspired dream to provide musical instruments and resources for those who could not afford them otherwise.
But in its third year, the effort has grown into a year-round, nonprofit organization known as Walk the Beat.
The Aug. 20 Walk the Beat festival will feature 70 bands and singer/songwriters - many of them local - performing at 35 businesses in Grand Haven. The 2015 event had 60 acts playing 30 venues.
"The festival is in its third year now," said Dave Palmer, founder and executive director of Walk the Beat. "The first year was good, and the second year doubled in attendance from the first. And we plan to double in attendance this year, again."
Read the full article - and follow the information to sign up your group for Walk the Beat - at the full Local Spins website!
Friday, March 18, 2016
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Seven Steps Up celebrates fifth anniversary
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| Gary and Michelle Hanks: co-owners of Seven Steps Up |
Published by Local Spins
When Gary and Michelle Hanks opened Seven Steps Up in Spring Lake, they originally had no intention of using the venue as a listening space for live music.
But after five years of presenting their Pin Drop Concerts series, the duo continues to be smitten with the music, and eager to keep it all going.
"We only have two concepts for our Pin Drop Concert Series: to provide an amazing experience for the artist, and to provide an amazing experience for our guests," said co-owner Gary Hanks.
If you do both of those things, Michelle added, amazing and magical things happen.
"There has never been a show where that doesn't happen," she said. "People leave in tears, they are so moved. We are addicted."
Read the full article on Seven Steps Up at Local Spins!
Local Spins Sneak Peek: Loren Johnson Spotlight
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| Grand Haven singer/songwriter, Loren Johnson |
Published by Local Spins
Hailing from a Coast Guard family, Loren Johnson was already accustomed to moving from city to city. When her family moved into their new home in Grand Haven, she had trouble at first being "the new kid" in a new school.
Everything had changed - again. Everything... except the guitar she brought along and her passion for songwriting.
Now, that songwriting is on display for all to see on her debut EP, "Sleepsick," officially released early this year. Johnson has been performing around the Grand Haven area with the support of her family and friends, as well as the community.
Read the full spotlight on Loren Johnson at Local Spins!
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