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Whole lotta Camel shows and a whole lotta local powerhouses. I feel like these are some real RVA fan favorites and crowd pleasers, but boy do we have a lot of talent to pick from.
Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? Hit me up at griffin@rvamag.com.
Bucko, Shagwuf, Catie Lausten
Friday, February 27th
The Camel
Once again we gather together to celebrate Bucko. The group is set to release “The Needle,” which is the first single off of their sophomore album. The alt-country group is nothing short of a local treasure, and I see their trajectory going rapidly and steeply upwards. Their debut self-titled record was an instant classic, full of fantastic guitar playing and witty lyricism. Since then, the group has released two singles that have only shown their growth as songwriters. From the first notes of “Manhole,” I knew this group was going to be big, and they keep pushing that bar of belief with every release. The group has balanced a whimsical honky tonk sound with heavier grunge-style electric numbers. Let’s see which way “The Needle” points.
Joining the local cowpokes is Shagwuf. They are pure and unbridled rock ’n’ roll with shots of glam and psychedelia in the concoction. They are consistently a deciding factor in making me go see a show. This group puts the gas back in your tank when you are a bit more than run down.
Last up, we are taking a listen to Catie Lausten. Lausten boasts a smooth and confident crooner voice with an indie pop backdrop to set it against. She has a certain dream-like quality that eases the muscles in your shoulders. My standout track is “Come Back to Va (Neighbor).” It’s pure class.
Dead Billionaires, Trash Boat & The Ambush, Blair Mountain
Saturday, February 28th
The Camel
Let’s turn up the volume a bit and tune into Dead Billionaires. If that name does not make you pre-order your ticket, I do not know what will. This punk rockin’ trio is fueled by guitar and a healthy hatred for the ruling class. They blend serious, political lyricism with power poppy riffs and bass lines that give you the hope that we will all make it through this together. You can hear influences of The Clash and Rancid in their sound, but you also find some Elvis Costello and Wreckless Eric in there too, which I find quite fun. I have had the chance to talk with these guys a number of times and find them to be the most genuine and charming group you could ask for.
Coming down from the turbulent capital of the country, we have Trash Boat & the Ambush. This anarcho folk punk group is also quick with witty and politically charged lyrics to pair with some really catchy riffs. I was confused by the self-categorization of “folk” at first, until I got locked into that bounce and vocal swing that you find in Guthrie and Seeger. For those of you that are also struggling under this current political system, Trash Boat has got you.
Last up, we have the local rockers Blair Mountain. If you have not caught on, this is a pretty politically motivated set of bands. They are leaning into a bluesy Appalachian sound. They have some really interesting story-style lyrics that are fascinating to dive into, and that usually translates to some intense live performances.
Stray Lions, Dhemo, Roslin, Chyna
Sunday, March 1st
The Camel
Roanoke indie group Stray Lions is coming up for a Sunday night at the Camel. The group is covered in cigarette-smoking haze and purple lights, all the makings for a cinematic night. They capture that early adult dreamlike state where you float from work to parties to lonely nights staring at the ceiling. When they go into the more rock-based songs, they certainly know how to command the sound and get you focused, riding the wave that they have ushered into the room. This group has a lot of range and a lot of motion. I certainly think they have something going for them.
Dhemo is on the bill, and they are always a pleasure to see. Their indie pop sound has a certain whimsy and dreamy quality to it as well. It is a great one to turn on late at night and count the stars to.
Roslin is a new-to-me group, and so far I have really enjoyed their demo pair of singles. I love the deep and rich vocals. They balance incredibly well with the jangly and light guitar playing. Great dichotomy. This group certainly has a lot going for them after these first two releases. They sound tight and professional, polished but still full of indie charm.
Last up we have Chyna, a veteran and powerhouse singer in the RVA scene. On top of a killer voice, Chyna boasts some incredible delivery. She puts a lot of emotion into every word and is certainly commanding a stage. Her more R&B-based approach to indie is very unique and deserves attention for filling such a distinct role in the scene.
New Tunes
‘Hard Road‘ by The Sunslingers
Another one by local folk group The Sunslingers. This time it is a mellow and hand-holding tune called “Hard Road.” A swinging beat tramples down a beaten path right next to you. A violin comes in like a bird on a branch and makes you feel right at home.
This song feels like dogwood trees flowering against a blue sky. Pure Virginia. There is a lot of warmth in this track. Even when the vocals turn toward harder subjects, it feels hopeful and optimistic. Another great single from this lot. Excited to see what comes next.
Main photo of Bumpin Uglies by Ryan Jacquot
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