Zlew.net’s September local live music picks

by Zach Lewis of of Zlew.net

I realize it might not exactly be the recommended procedure to post picks for a given month half way into that month. What can I say? I have always been a bit of a procrastinator, and there are several good shows coming up in the second half of September in the Dallas area.

Eli Young Band at the Rockin’ Rodeo in Denton - 9-15-2008.

These guys are really doing well and are making a name for themselves. This week they are number 33 on the Country Top 40 countdown. Now, if you follow my blog, you will know I usually don’t do reviews on mainstream radio bands; I opt for the local Dallas/Texas area local scene bands. Fear not! This is not a pop-country band! This band is a local group from Denton, and their song “When it Rains” is the song they have been playing around town and has enjoyed limited local radio play for a few years now. I think it’s pretty sweet that these guys from Denton have done so well, and that their Texas country song is now on the radio and the charts right next to the Pop-Country giants with their purchased songs, marketing machines, and multimillion dollar videos. Well done guys! When I was in grad school, Mike Eli was in one of the classes I was responsible for teaching. I remember him talking about his band and how excited he was that they were playing around town. He would come in to class so proud when they would get their first gig in Fort Worth, or anywhere outside of Denton. They have come along way since Zach’s Comm 1010 class in 2001, and you should check out their show in Denton.

Estes Shane Whalen at the Tipperary Inn - 9-18-2008

I really think this guy will be the local act that everyone is talking about in a year or so. He’s low on the radar right now, but I think all of that will change soon. He is a fantastic singer-songwriter who is starting to get noticed, and someone who I recommend to anyone looking for good live music. His music is well written, fun, and well-performed. If you find yourself twiddling your thumbs on the 18th, get off your sofa, call a few friends, and go check out Shane at the The Tipperary Inn. If you do, I’m sure you won’t be let down. Take a listen to his music on his MySpace (he’s always adding new tunes); allow me to recommend “Tejas” and “Women and Beer”. My bet is that "Women and Beer: will be on the radio one of these days. I love that song, and not just because the title consists of my two favorite things in life.

Dan Dyer at Club Dada - 9-19-2008

This time of year is you shouldn’t even need an excuse to want to hang out at Club Dada. Their huge back patio area is a nice spot to hang out and have a few drinks with your friends, and should you choose to venture indoors you find a nice vibe and great live music. If you head down on the 19th, that music will be the vocal styling of Mr. Dan Dyer. Dan’s style is a lot of fun, and also a little bit difficult to describe. His voice is similar to Jamiroquai, with a bit of range and just a little bit raspy around the edges. I’ve seen him play three or four times, and I would describe the music as light acoustic, with strong vocal emphasis. Some of his recorded music, and a lot of what he has on his MySpace right now has more of a funky/70’s feel to it.

The Slack at Lakewood Bar - 09-26-2008

The Slack is a local band that is simply packed with talent. Several of the band members are also well known as solo acts, and also play for or have played for other well-respected bands in the area. Their book of music is pretty diverse; some of their music is light acoustic music, but of all of the bands I’ve recommended so far in this post, I would say they are the most rocky. The last time I saw them play, half of the band was sick (only three on stage) and they did the best cover of Pink Floyd and Led Zep that I’ve ever heard. Their original music is fantastic, but if you can pull off Pink Floyd…and make it sound like it should with just three people, that tells you something about the skill level of this band. If you are looking for some great music to enjoy on the 26th, make sure to check out The Slack on the 26th.

Fishing For Comets at the City Tavern - 09-27-2008

These guys (and gal) know how to put on a fun and upbeat show, and they know how to keep the audience involved and focused on the show. Remember how I said the Slack’s members are in several other great local bands? This is one of them, with Eric Niel playing bass, guitar, and vocals for the band. I’m pretty sure he could play a saxophone, or any other musical instrument he could get his hands on. He is just one of those guys who seems like he can play anything and everything. Fishing For Comets has a few folk songs and covers in their play list, but for the most part their sound is pop consisting of their own original music. I’ve seen them play several times, and I’ve never been disappointed. Check them out now before they are selling out the Jerry Jones stadium. :)