Ron Yarosz & the Vehicle - Docksider
Saturday, January 3rd

Ron Yarosz and the Vehicle definitely had their mojo working tonight, with Scott Cravener and Roger Montgomery on guitars, and the rhythm section of Ron Sutton, drums, and Jason Wilber on bass.
Ron & Jason play in the acclaimed Bernard Allison Band, this dynamic duo have been playing together for over 15 years and it shows.

The first time I heard them play together was in a band called Playground, I knew then these cat's had something special between them, it amazes me they have gone from playing heavy rock originals to playing funky killer blues with world renowned Bernard Allison. Home town boys who have not forgot their roots in Erie, whenever their in town their either playing or recording with somebody, After a much deserved holiday break with family, the dynamic duo is heading out next week, for a 3 week tour of Germany 21 gig's in 23 day's. Then they'll return for some national gig's for a month then fly back to Europe for another 2 month tour!! They have a huge fan base in Europe, this will be the duo's 8th tour over there and it's not uncommon to be playing in front of 50,000 people, as they said, "what a rush"!!
   
They're also planning to be on the next cd from Ron Yarosz, his follow up to the cd the Vehicle, which by far was one of the best local cd's ever!!!

The show last night was great, Scotty & Roger were the other dynamic duo, switching of on rhythm and leads their energy was felt throughout the club, and the dance floor. As far as Yarosz what can I say... great showmanship, great harp, his famous B3 and great songs!!! - photo & review by Gary Tomporowski

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Mo Rebo - Forward Hall
Saturday, October 18th

PlayErie was at Forward Hall Saturday night, where Enviro-Palooza featuring Mo Rebo was taking place. This event was held in part by the Erie County Environmental Coalition, to raise awareness of environmental issues in our local area. This was a free event, and by the size of the crowd I would have to say, was a success.

Mo Rebo had the place shucking and jiving to their infectious groove's, it was hard to stand still long enough to take a shot of this band!! This 8 piece percussive driven band has so many musical influences it's hard to classify their sound. From Middle Eastern, Afro-Cuban, Latin, jazz, and a touch of Bluegrass, it defenetly is a sound all it's own. I personally feel Joel Polacci on congas,  is one of the best player's in town, along with his down to earth attitude make's the vibe of the band a real pleasure. Along with Joel on congas the band also features Chris Polacci on vocals, Wayn Fambrough on percussion & vocals, Kevin McCleary on sax, Dan Gross on drums, Kurt Unger on guitar & percussion, Tim Blumish guitar and sitting in on bass for Doug Russell "aka- East Avenue fame" was Mambo's own, Ralph Rettinger. - photo & review by Gary Tomporowski

East Avenue - The Docksider
Saturday, October 18th

East Avenue was at the Docksider Saturday night with the New House sound man Trevor at the helm. This guy has a good touch, making the sexy, sultry voice of the ever so attractive lead vocalist, Eli Vahey stand out ever so sweet! With a great band to sweeten up the pot, with brother Pat on guitar Doug Russell on bass & the multi talented Boyd Baker also on guitar, "sorry I didn't get the drummer's name" but, their blend of originals and a few covers was a good mix. But don't be fooled they can also rock out as was evident by the crowd on the dance floor!! - photo & review by Gary Tomporowski

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The new all ages venue "The Underground" seems to be just what the doctor ordered for Erie’s punk music scene. The energy the fans brought to the Monday night show featuring Erie’s working class rockers The Tradesmen, Erie’s own The Coffin Bangers, and South Carolina’s The Independents was to say the least, intense. The fans in Erie were ready to rock out and rock out they did.

The Underground located in the former One Way Inn building on Peach Street is on the small side but it has just enough room for a good time and a good show. Plus it’s nice to have an all age’s venue free of Christian overtones (not necessarily a bad thing, but there’s a degree of censorship at those venues). The sound system was awesome and the atmosphere was energetic so it’s a great venue for shows like this. Also, dancing is permitted and encouraged which adds to the fun.

The Tradesmen - The Underground
Monday, September 29th

The show kicked off with Erie’s The Tradesmen. Their oi-inspired working class street punk sound is fast, powerful, and in your face. With former members of The Bastard Brigade, The Tradesmen have found new direction in their music and pound it out with stunning craftsmanship and sensibility. Their songs are poignant and direct and their messages are clear. If one word could sum up the band it would be pride. They have pride for themselves, this country, and for the local music scene.

Their lyrics are about brotherhood, respect, and not taking any crap from anyone. They sing about freedom and the price our soldiers must pay to give us this freedom. They sing about holding your ground and never giving up. They tell us to keep up the good fight so that we’ll never lose our battles. This is stark contrast from what today’s MTV punk portrays. Blink 182 and other "boy band punk" bands may bring in the big bucks but they’ll never have heart and soul that The Tradesmen put in there music.

Each of the band's four members have deep rooted passion for what they are playing and it pours out through their live performance. The young people at Mondays show learned a lot about the power of punk music that the big money making bands could never teach. Also, they learned you don’t have to hate America to be punk and not all punk is about anarchy, getting grounded or losing your girlfriend. The band delivered a power packed punch of sonic intensity that’s always unforgettable.

The moshing was heavy, the fists were pumping and the energy was unabashed. The Tradesmen smashed through their originals with fury and talent that’s not often seen nowadays. They had the crowd shouting their choruses and screeching the oi oi’s and whoa hoes this music is known for. This, matched with the blistering guitars and pounding drums and bass and raspy powerful vocals that The Tradesmen possess, left the crowd in a frenzy for more.

They played all the songs that can be heard on their website and demo CD plus a couple Bastard Brigade songs for the older fans. Highlights included ‘Smash’, ‘Soldier of Misfortune’, and ‘Erie’, a song about love for our city. Intense.

If you get a chance to witness The Tradesmen live, take it because you will be inspired and you will have a great time. The Tradesmen are TJ Bastard (ex-Bastard Brigade) on vocals, Matt, on rhythm guitar, Jared (ex Eternal Conflict) on lead guitar, and Tommy (ex-Killcifix) on drums.

Check them out at www.thetradesmen.tripod.com - review by Alex Harrilla

The Coffin Bangers - The Underground
Monday, September 29th

Next up were Erie’s own The Coffin Bangers. The Coffin Bangers, with former My 3 Scum founder Bob Kellogg II on vocals and guitar, are quickly becoming a recognized force in the punk realms of psychobilly, horror rock, and rockabilly.

Picking up with a similar style where My 3 Scum left off Bob brings us a new and improved sound. With originality that is seldom found nowadays this trio of terror stomps out its spooky punk rock with intensity and power. Conjuring up thoughts of bands like The Cramps, The Meteors, and The Reverend Horten Heat, The Coffin Bangers combine fifties roots rockabilly with hard driven punk for a witch’s brew of captivating music. It’s a hard style of music to pin down to a genre but The Coffin Bangers music is danceable and at the same time fist pounding, punishing and mosh-able. They really can entertain just about anyone who’s listening. A touch of surf, an ounce of roots rock, and a twist of punk all combined with b movie themes that explodes into a burst of powerful fun is what The Coffin Bangers are. It’s a style that must be seen and heard to fully understand.

The Monday night crowd warmed up by The Tradesmen welcomed the Bangers with open arms. Bob Kellogg II, dressed in top hat and tux complete with string tie electrified them with his spooky Elvis style vocals and horrifying howling laden with his speed induced version of Gene Vincent guitar work. Darren O. moved them with bouncy bass lines and lightning fast fingering that would be hard to match. Darren’s bass playing is really something to witness. All of this stomped and hammered home with Dustin McAndrews crashing, bashing, furious drumming and his growling backup vocals.

The Coffin Bangers gnawed through there set list of powerful originals keeping the crowd mesmerized and dancing through every song. Highlights included ‘The Wolfman’, ‘The Wild and Wicked Witch’, and ‘Ogre’. They blew through these and others with awesome accuracy and sheer intensity. Everyone enjoyed their performance and was intoxicated by their stage presence. The finished their set with a psychobilly psycho version of Motorheads ‘Ace of Spades’. The Coffin Bangers truly do rock.

Check them out at www.eerierecords.com - review by Alex Harrilla

The Independents - The Underground
Monday, September 29th

Next up was South Carolina’s The Independents. First, take B movie themes and horror themes like The Coffin Bangers do and make them a little more gruesome and gory, then mix in old school ska like Operation Ivy or Madness, a little new school like Sublime, then the speed and deep brooding vocals of The Misfits, and occasionally sprinkle in the pop sensibilities of the Ramones and you have a brief description of what The Independents do.

With so many influences and styles, they are very hard to pin down as well, and really need to be experienced to fully understand. The best thing to say is their music is incredibly original and really really good. They had high energy, high speed, and high volume. They play with a lot of passion, they involve the fans a lot, and infect the crowd into a dancing frenzy. These qualities make for a great time and an entertaining night. They brought a full battery of fog, lights, and a full onslaught of energy.

Some highlights were their version of Glenn Danzig’s ‘Mother’, which included a ska breakdown, and ‘Blitzkrieg Bop’ by the Ramones. It was a real treat for The Independents to come to Erie. They are a pretty major band to be part of this show and that speaks volumes about their integrity.

The Independents were produced by the late great Joey Ramone and have toured with the Ramones, The Misfits, Green Day and many others. It was very special for them to play here. There is still a music scene in Erie and there is still punk music alive in this country. Great shows like this one just need to keep on happening and music fans need to give these bands support so the scene can grow again. Great Show!

Check out The Independents at www.theindependents.net - review by Alex Harrilla

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Mike Ohm & Friends - Forward Hall
Friday, August 29th

Friday marked the first of two consecutive nights that Forward Hall patrons will be treated to the guitar work of Mike Ohm. In the more intimate space of the Stage Right bar area, Mike opened the evening with 90 minutes of solo jazz guitar. Reminiscent of Johnny Smith & George Van Eps, Mike played a number of jazz standards interspersed with original compositions. His warm familiar jazz tone was well-received by a modestly sized but appreciative audience.

After a short break, Mike was joined by bassist Dave Blaetz and drummer Matt Ferguson to form a classic jazz guitar trio. These three musicians regularly perform as Potato Battery, with the addition of guitarist Sheldon Peterson. In the trio format, all musicians were allowed ample space for their own interpretations of the melody and structure of the tunes. The resulting feel of the trio was more straight ahead jazz than the fusion/progressive sound of Potato Battery.

As with Mike's solo work, the trio's ability to play original tunes and breathe new life into standards makes these musicians a treat to see on any given night. - photo & review by Karen Williams

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The Incomprehensible - Club Outcry
Friday, May 2nd

The Incomprehensible kicked off a night of local music at Harborcreek's all-ages venue - Club Outcry. This was the first time that PlayErie visited the club, and we found it to be an excellent space for music. With a large stage, plenty of room for the audience, and a game room/lounge in the front, Club Outcry has a lot to offer the under 21 crowd.

In the classic tradition of punk rock's roots The Incomprehensible sprinted at top speed through short, high energy originals. The sound system was minimal, being used mainly for vocals and a bit of kick drum. No problem, because the approach used tonight was to simply crank up the amps and rock... again pointing back to the roots of punk. It's not about technology, it's about energy and venting emotion.

The Incomprehensible features Twig Django on vocals, Riff Kloss on guitar, Chubs on bass and Ratt on drums.

Midnight Jacks - Club Outcry
Friday, May 2nd

Next up were the Midnight Jacks, with tonight's show being their first "formal" gig. In contrast to the opening band the Jacks were a bit more melodic and at times they delved into sections of spacey jamming. Several pieces seemed to draw influence from very early U2, which is not a bad thing in my book. Frontman Bobby Doerr revealed a commanding stage presence which helped to begin to focus the crowd's attention for the remainder of the evening. Joining Doerr in the Midnight Jacks are Jesse Guerrein on guitar, Steven Crane on bass and Zack Oshlick on drums.

Black Rose Diary - Club Outcry
Friday, May 2nd

Following the Midnight Jacks were Black Rose Diary, who are on a roll with a new CD release and plenty of shows around the area lately. It was apparent that these guys are definitely building a following in northwestern PA. Taking the stage with no idea of a setlist they opened with a new tune entitled "Operation by Candlelight" (which was available at the show on a 4 song EP). After that the band relied on the audience to call out the songs from their CD release "Burned Bridges and Broken Hearts"... and the audience knew every song.

Josh, Jeff, Jon and Zac are riding a wave at the moment, and one wonders what their next step will be. It was evident from the stampede to the merch table after their performance that these guys are doing something right.

The Twirpentines - Club Outcry
Friday, May 2nd

The Twirpentines continued in the vein of Black Rose diary, a sort of polished rawness, or perhaps organized chaos. They sound like they are on the edge, but they know exactly what they are doing.

Vocalist/guitarist Fred Oakman has a very professional manner, both in the performance of the music as well as in his communication with the audience. With four releases under their belts The Twirpentines have been honing their craft for some time, and it shows. The band members were all over the stage, unstrapping their instruments and flailing them while the music continued without hesitation.

The Twirpentines will be playing Black Rose Diary's 21+ CD release show at the Beer Mug next Friday, May 9th. - John Trevethan

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Blue Fire - The Coffee Cup
Friday, April 11th

I haven't seen Blue Fire perform in a while, and I noticed immediately that they are even more tight and polished than just a month or two ago. Some new additions to their sound include backing vocals from bassist Gus Ward and drummer Derek Tomporowski, as well as guitarist Josh Karickhoff incorporating keyboards and harmonica into the show.

The Coffee Cup is a new all ages venue and features a decent lighting system and a large stage. The band brought their recently upgraded sound system to the show and the audio was crisp and powerful. Blue Fire seems suited for the bigger stages with full production, which for me was confirmed when they played the Hangout in Edinboro a few months back. With a tried-and-true power trio format Blue Fire likes to rock.

The show featured solo sections from each member of the band. Some say that 10 minute drum solos are passe, and usually this is the case. However, watching 14 year old Tomporowski improvising a spontaneous percussive assault, one can't help but marvel that he is exceeding many players twice his age. Ward used his solo space to slap, tap, slide and generally coax all manner of noises from his bass. With influences like Jaco Pastorius and Billy Sheehan, Gus is well on his way to becoming a formidable force on the bass.

Near the end of the set Josh Karickhoff pulled out the stops with a few tricks borrowed from the master, Jimi Hendrix. First Josh played his solo interpretation of "The Star Spangled Banner" in the tradition of Hendrix at Woodstock. With maximum distortion and feedback he wailed through his version of the piece, without aping Hendrix note for note. Later, when the band joined him, Karickhoff flung his guitar over his head and continued to riff with full force. Sure, older members of the audience might say that it has all been done before. However, it is promising that a player this young even knows who Hendrix is. The fact that Blue Fire desires to go back and discover where their art came from will probably help them find their voice in the future. I am reminded of the Stones or Clapton immersing themselves in the music of the old blues masters... and that is not a bad model to follow. - John Trevethan

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