Over the past six months, three people foundational to WRIR 97.3 FM, Richmond’s volunteer-run station built outside the expectations of corporate radio, rooted in a love of music, giving locals a voice, and creating space where there wasn’t any, have died. All from...
We stepped down the cobblestone steps, our backs to that gothic tower of bricks seeing us off into a damp night. Jesse’s face was blue as he stared down into his phone and said: C’mon, I think it’s this way. It’s west? I asked. No, it’s in this direct—I mean yes… it’s west. You’re sure? He told me he was good for it. The guy who walks...
I'm so excited by what's happening in the city these days it's hard for me to pay attention to anything else. I've got more all local for you on this week's edition of SOUND CHECK. Friday Booby Bash 3 comes to Gallery 5 to raise money to benefit the queer community, then come Monday Tennishu hops into The Camel bringing along two very unlikely...
This week we dive into the maelstrom with Holy Shit Fest’s fundraiser, a concert that unites the forces of grunge, noise, punk and metal. In addition, Open Kasket and Heldtight bring Arkansas beatdown to Bandito’s. Inter Arma unveils a new single, promising to push the boundaries of heavy music with their signature blend of extreme...
It's all local all the time this week, so get ready for an onslaught of local talent from all ends of the spectrum. With two options for how to spend your all too rare leap day, it's a packed week. Ant The Symbol and friends take on Richmond Music Hall, while just down the street Chandler Matkins celebrates his 7th birthday with a show at RVA...
Kick back and check out the conversation with Devonne Harris aka DJ Harrison, a down-to-earth local with some serious skills. He started Jellowstone Records from his living room, signed to the legendary Stone’s Throw label, put out several great albums, solo and with Butcher Brown, got a Grammy nod along the way, collabed with Polo and is right...
This week we remember the life and legacy of local metal guitarist Nick Rockefeller, whose passing left a void in the hearts of many. Meanwhile, a relentless onslaught of death metal descends upon the city as Gravesend and Maul converge on Fallout for a night of brutality. In the realm of hardcore, we highlight Heavy Is The Head’s single “Dirty...
It's an exciting time to be in Richmond; Spring is on the horizon, although it feels like it's been here for weeks already, and the days grow longer as we itch to get back outside. Yet, we must wait just a little while longer. I've got some music here to hold you over until then, with a weird and wonderful yet creative band drifting through town...
In this laid-back interview, I caught up with Richmond party scene vets Hip Hop Henry and Billy Crystal Fingers about their weekly Wednesday night event, Acid's Groove at Get Tight Lounge. They discuss the origins of the name, their love for acid jazz and rare grooves, and for making the party happen whenever they team up. ed. note: Before...
Soooo Herbie Abernethy. Valient Himself, Valient Thorr. There are many things one could expect of you. HEMI engine-roaring rock and roll, spitting hot oil and sweat? Sure. Loud guitars fucking louder drums, on festival stages with the gods of American angst? Definitely. A solo album filled with cover songs ranging from Neil Diamond’s “Forever in...
