Kim Petras Hit the Sweet Spot of WOO-AH at Denver's Ogden Theatre

By: Chris Garcia

Born and raised in Germany, transgender pop star Kim Petras gave Denver a performance that was anything but icy on this past cold Wednesday night. The singer gained popularity after releasing her debut single, “I Don’t Want It All” produced by Dr. Luke in 2017. In support of her debut full-length album, Clarity, she brought her tour of the same name to Ogden Theatre this week.

Kim Petras. PHOTO CREDIT: CONNOR GASKEY

Kim Petras. PHOTO CREDIT: CONNOR GASKEY

Alex Chapman opened with a DJ set full of pop cult classics. His turntables pushed pop songs spanning from Britney Spears to Lady Gaga to Mariah Carey to Grimes. The hour-long set made fans feel right at home, where people danced and sang along to songs they probably heard on the radio years ago, before streaming made its imprint on culture. The throwback pop sing-alongs were a precursor to Kim Petras’ music, which has a knack for bringing retro elements into the future of pop music. 

The main attraction, Kim Petras burst onto the stage in front of a massive light display alongside collaborator and DJ, Aaron Joseph. In true fashion she opened the night with “Clarity” in thigh-high boots and a black tutu. After the song, fans cheered for what felt like ages. Kim paused for a moment to take in the energy with a smile on her face and sparkles in her eyes before asking the crowd to stop because the applause was “making her emo.” A trifecta of top-tier pop songs came soon after with “I Don’t Want it All,” “Hillside Boys,” and a mashup of songs “Unlock It” and “Click,” both of which she is a featured on with Charli XCX

The first half of the show, Kim was sweet, shy and smiley. She settled into her element when she returned from an outfit change to perform “There Will Be Blood” on a rotating platform. This is where Kim Petras is at her best: singing dark pop songs with thumping beats and a light show reminiscent of an underground rave. The next slew of songs, Kim was sassy, sexy and confident. The crowd sang along, jumped up and down and felt the music pulse through their bodies as the ice princess pranced around the stage. The flashing light show, thumping beats, and hot ,crowded floor made me feel like I was at a club. We were only missing a disco ball. 

A tender moment occurred towards the end of the show where Kim stripped down to a baby blue t-shirt. She sat next to Aaron, who strummed a guitar as she sang an acoustic cover of The Killers’ song “Human.” She explained that pop music has always been her escape, and “Human” was a song she loved to escape with. Her voice carried the track, as fans sang along and swayed their hands in the air with the house lights on, a drastic change from the last section of songs. The show ended with a sugar rush, with Kim closing on “Sweet Spot,” a disco-tinged, feel-good number. 

Kim Petras. PHOTO CREDIT: CONNOR GASKEY

Kim Petras. PHOTO CREDIT: CONNOR GASKEY

Throughout the show, Kim Petras dominated the stage with her signature WOO-AH!’ moments. She offered everything one looks for in a pop show: dance, art, pop, lights and technology. Even with blaring beats pulsing through the theatre, her voice reached heights that matched the 5280-foot elevation in the Mile High City. At the end of the night, it was clear that for Kim Petras, this is only the beginning of a long-lasting career in the music industry. 

See more photos from this show here.

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

BABYMETAL Bringing Kawaii Metal to Denver September 27th

By: Jason Myers 

The heavy metal touring circuit in the U.S. is about to get a facelift over the next month. Kawaii metal kingpins BABYMETAL are heading out on their first U.S. headlining tour and it’s slated to hit 20 cities across the country from September 4th to mid-October. 

Photo per BABYMETAL.

Photo per BABYMETAL.

Seamlessly blending elements of death metal, black metal, and J-pop music, BABYMETAL have created a sound that is uniquely their own. As pioneers of the Kawaii metal genre, the band has released 2 albums to critical acclaim and has performed 4 world tours. Their new album, Metal Galaxy, will be released on October 11th, 2019. Check out their newest single, “Elevator Girl” to see what we mean.

BABYMETAL will be backed on tour (except 10/15-10/16) by Swedish heavy metal juggernauts Avatar. After 18 years as a band, Avatar have little, if anything, left to prove. They've released 7 albums, 2 EPs, and have garnered a faithful following through their chaotic and relentless live performances. Check out a live performance of their 2018 appearance at Graspop here.

Want to catch them in Denver Friday, September 27th at The Ogden? Get tickets for the tour here!

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Nick Murphy fka as Chet Faker Hits Ogden Theatre This Friday With New Music

By: Mirna Tufekcic

Here’s a little gossip for you: not long ago, legendary music producer Rick Rubin hit up Nick Murphy, the artist formerly known as Chet Faker, to suggest they collaborate and create some music together. Murphy wasn’t convinced. But after some sweet talking and email exchanges (and the irresistible gravity of Rubin’s reputation), Murphy found himself working with Rubin at Shangri La, Malibu’s famous music studio. Rubin was also the first to throw out the idea that Chet Faker change his artist name back to his birth name, a risk Murphy took for the betterment of himself as an artist, even at the risk of losing everything he built as Chet Faker. A brave and genuine move, it beckons respect and sparks an interest in hearing his new stuff and upcoming projects.

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Fast forward to April 2019, when Run Fast Sleep Naked was released as Nick Murphy’s latest project, co-produced by Dave Harrington. Murphy’s album is actually pretty good. It’s definitely NOT Chet Faker. Though his voice is still recognizable, everything else about the songs and the album as a whole is refreshingly new. Since its release, it has received a number of positive reviews. The AV Club even wrote, "Run Fast Sleep Naked is Murphy’s unbridled catharsis, vacillating between starry-eyed epiphany and startling heartache. It’s a bumpy ride, but still one worth taking."

Curious about seeing Murphy’s transformation in person? Lucky for you, he’s headed to Denver this week! Nick Murphy hits the Ogden Theatre this Friday, June 21st with tickets here. See you at the show!

-Mirna

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

The New Mastersounds' Recent 'Payback' Show Gave 100% of Proceeds to Homeless Youth

By: Will Baumgartner

Last Friday night at the Ogden Theatre in Denver was a joyful experience on multiple levels as The New Mastersounds, joined by Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe guitarist DJ Williams and his band Shots Fired, brought their considerable talents and notoriety to the aid of Urban Peak to benefit Denver homeless youth. The New Mastersounds, led by guitarist Eddie Roberts, who is known for his love of and commitment to community, funneled 100% of the night’s proceeds back to Urban Peak. Everything sold for the night, including merchandise from Roberts’ new record label Color Red, went to the organization. So even if you didn’t participate in the silent auction or couldn’t afford to pick up an album or t-shirt, you knew that just by being there, you were helping make life better for others. Add that good feeling to the absolutely stellar performances and rock-solid grooves emanating from everyone on that stage, and it’s no wonder that all of us were smiling all night.

The event, aptly named The Payback, is not a new thing. This show marked the completion of its third year, with past shows in Denver, San Francisco, and New Orleans, which have featured special guests like the New Orleans Suspects and Neon Brown. Urban Peak have been doing their good work since 1988, and through The Payback shows, The New Mastersounds have helped them raise several thousand dollars and public awareness for homeless youth.

The crowd at Payback.

The crowd at Payback.

As excited as I was to see the Mastersounds again, it was an extra special treat to be introduced to Shots Fired, as this was my first time catching them live. Mr. Williams is not only a masterful guitarist with a precise attack reminiscent of Roberts’ playing, but a coolly charismatic bandleader and compelling composer as well. Based in Denver, he featured several musicians in this set, including Analog Son keyboardist Eric Luba and trumpeter AnDre Mali. If you’ve seen Williams with Tiny Universe, you already know what a great guitarist he is; catch this band and see how much more he can do as a frontman.

When the New Mastersounds took the stage, we were all primed and had our inner groove machines well-oiled by Shots Fired’s dance-friendly set. Those of us who have been fans for years knew that New Mastersounds would not only dazzle us with their musicianship, but keep that dance vibe going while driving us all to new and blissful heights. Augmented by the dynamic duo of trumpeter Mike Olmos and saxophonist Jason Mingledorff, and featuring two mini-sets fronted by the outrageously soulful vocalist Lamar Williams Jr. (known for his work with the Greg Allman Band as well as his own prodigious talents as a songwriter and frontman in his own right), the band continued to show us that we can count on them to continue their traditions while continually growing and reaching higher and higher with each performance.

The New Mastersounds at Payback.

The New Mastersounds at Payback.

If you happen to be in New York City in a couple of weeks, New Mastersounds will be doing a two-night run at the Gramercy Theater on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Then it’s straight back to Colorado for a run of shows at the Belly Up in Aspen January 3rd, Old Town Pub in Steamboat Springs the two nights following, and the Shakedown Bar in Vail on January 6th.

With all the great happy music we experienced last Friday though, we should not forget what the evening was about. Whether you were there or not, please visit Urban Peak at their website and get involved: donate, volunteer, whatever you can do. With the holidays abound, it’s the perfect season to give and you never know who you might help jump up off their feet to dance.

-Will

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Underoath Embark on 'Erase Me Tour' with a Two-Night Denver Stop at Ogden Theatre

By: Nathan Sheppard

Underoath will be embarking on the Erase Me Tour this November and December in support of their comeback album Erase Me. The tour will be stopping in Denver for a special two-night event November 23rd and 24th at the Ogden Theatre. It is the band’s first album in eight years, and the first album in quite some time with founding member Aaron Gillespie. Underoath will be accompanied by Dance Gavin Dance, Crown The Empire, and The Plot In You.

Underoath.

Underoath.

With Erase Me, Underoath stick to their roots while experimenting with new modern sounds or “radio friendly” tracks. Aaron Gillespie on drums and back-up vocals is evident throughout the record, an element that fans had been missing in the albums without Gillespie. Lead vocalist Spencer Chamberlain said about Erase Me that the band “had only one rule on this record: to reject the phrase ‘that’s not Underoath enough’ which robs us from growing.” It’s easy to see that they took this to heart with tracks like “On My Teeth” and “Rapture,” where they expand and experiment with new sounds while keeping their signature sound.

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This all-star lineup is a can’t-miss show for metalcore fans, having a diverse lineup with something for everyone to enjoy. You can check out the dates for the tour below and purchase your tickets here.

-Nathan

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Parkway Drive's Current 'Reverence Tour' Is a Must-See, Once in a Lifetime Production

By: Nathan Sheppard

Parkway Drive’s headlining Reverence Tour made its Denver stop at the Ogden last Sunday and featured some of the hardcore scene’s biggest names.  

Polaris.

Polaris.

Australian band Polaris, who are on their first ever tour in the U.S., started things off for the eager, sold-out crowd. While many didn’t know their songs, they made up for it by moshing and jumping around.

The Devil Wears Prada. 

The Devil Wears Prada. 

The Devil Wears Prada were next up and rocked hard. Lead singer Mike Hranica set the tone by running across the stage to get the crowd going. The band’s songs were a great combination of hard hitting breakdowns and calm, smooth melodies.

August Burns Red.

August Burns Red.

August Burns Red were the last of the openers for the night, and continued to build off the heavy-hitting songs of their predecessors. The Grammy-nominated band showed why they are one of the best: Jake Luhrs brought his brutal screams, and the intricate tapping solos from JB Brubaker were the main attractions for their set.

Parkway Drive. 

Parkway Drive. 

For those whose necks weren’t already sore from headbanging, Parkway Drive made sure everyone went home sweaty and sore. The Australian band made their U.S. debut in Denver 12 years ago, so they always make sure to bring their best for the Mile High crowd. Parkway features some of the heaviest breakdowns in their genre, and accompanied by Winston McCall’s screaming, it makes for one insane show. Their 15-song set finished off with “Bottom Feeder,” sending everyone home on a high note.

This all-star lineup was easily one of the biggest and best shows of 2018. The Devil Wears Prada and August Burns Red could easily sell out their own headlining shows, so to have them with Parkway Drive on the same tour made for a once in a lifetime experience. For your chance to be a part of this tour check out the remaining dates here.

-Nathan

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

New Found Glory Proved Their Pop Punk Reign at Recent Denver Show

By: Nathan Sheppard

Pop punk legends New Found Glory rocked the Ogden Theater this past friday on their Sick Tour. The now 21-year-old band are right back at it again after recently going on a 20th anniversary tour. This time around, they brought William Ryan Key (former Yellowcard frontman), The Movielife, and fellow old-school punk band Bayside.

William Ryan Key kicked things off with an acoustic set of his newest solo project, a five-song EP Thirteen. It was very mellow compared to his Yellowcard days. The set did end with and acoustic “Ocean Avenue” sing-along which was very fun. The Movielife, who just reunited a few years ago and released their first record in 14 years this past fall, followed with an energetic performance.

New York punk rockers Bayside took things to the next level as they ripped through the first few songs of their set. The usual mosh pits started to form and truly made the Ogden’s 1600-person venue feel like a classic small venue punk show. Everyone sang along to classics like “Montauk” and Bayside finished their part of the show with everyone’s favorite “Devotion And Desire.”

New Found Glory, who are known in their genre for their excellent shows, proved they still reign as last week’s was no different. Kicking things off with arguably their biggest song (though they have many), the band played “All Downhill From Here” to start the night and the show got more insane from there. Aside from the electric energy they developed with the crowd, NFG are also a fan favorite due to their longer setlists, which often feature a lot of classic older tunes and deep cuts. Denver’s show was everything that we could ask for catalogue-wise, and also featured balloons, confetti, and even a lucky few fans getting to share the stage with the guys for some songs. An NFG show is definitely unlike any other, and it's easy to see why this band has built such success over the years. This is one act that don't appear to be slowing down anytime soon.

NFG.

NFG.

The Sick Tour is winding down, so make such you catch this lineup while you can! You can keep up with the band here so you can see them at their upcoming BreakFEST Festival performance, which Bayside and The Movielife will join them for as well.

-Nathan

All photos per the author. All videos and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

The Neighbourhood Sold Out Yet Another Denver Show

By: Taylor Naiman

Last Friday, The Neighbourhood took the stage at the Ogden Theater in Denver. The five-piece are best known for their tune “Sweater Weather,” which first hit the airwaves in 2013. This catchy tune launched them into stardom and put them on Billboard’s Hot 100 the same year. With their song titled “Honest” from The Amazing Spiderman 2 soundtrack, the band continued to stay in the popular music sphere in 2014. This year, the band dropped their self-titled record, which features 12 new tracks, has garnered some buzz, and has afforded the group international tour plans this summer with numerous festival appearances. For such a young band, The Neighbourhood have found a perfect blend of indie rock, R&B, electronica and hip-hop that works well. Their sound is often chilling and moody, and their live shows are riveting thanks to frontman Jesse Rutherford's charisma. Needless to say, when Denver was picked to be the first city on the band's 2018 spring tour, devout fans could not have been more excited.

The Neighbourhood. 

The Neighbourhood. 

Fans began lining up at noon in the freezing weather on Friday in Denver, and the line wrapped around several blocks. This was clearly a crowd who appreciates small venues and loves the intimacy of seeing The Neighbourhood outside of a festival experience. In fact, since 2013, The Neighbourhood have played sold-out shows at Denver’s Ogden Theaterand every year, their audience comes back for another round.

Jesse Rutherford. 

Jesse Rutherford. 

Once in the venue and out of the cold, the crowd suddenly found their voices and dance moves after a somewhat sleepy opening set from Field Medic. After The Neighborhood took the stage, there was not one quiet or motionless individual. Everyone in the crowd knew every word to all of their set. Looking around, you could see how this band’s music has truly formed a community. There were girls, guys, mothers, and even security personnel singing and dancing along to the music. Throughout the duration of their set, frontman Jesse Rutherford demanded attention, and for the song, ”Wiped Out!,” he made his tambourine a quintessential staple in the live song, creating a rhythmic channel that the audience fell right into.

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During the show, fans heard tunes from the band’s first album I Love You along with songs from their most recent album The Neighbourhood. Some of their set included “Dust,” “Afraid,” “Scary Love,” “Daddy Issues,” and “Stuck With Me.” Though the band closed with "Sweater Weather" and didn’t come back for an encore, fans didn’t appear disappointed.

Catch The Neighbourhood next at Coachella Music Festival in Indio, California this weekend, and make sure to follow their Spotify.

-Taylor

All show photos per the author. All photos, videos and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Pidgeons Playing Ping Pong Sell Out All Colorado Shows On Recent Run

By: Cy Fontenot

This past weekend, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong hit Colorado with the tastiest serving of the funk we’ve seen in awhile. After their free show in Vail for the Burton Concert Series, Pigeons hit the road and stopped next in Durango for a steamy sold-out show at the Animas City Theatre, a notoriously rowdy venue. They then kept the good vibes flowing at yet another sold-out show at Denver’s Ogden Theatre.

Pidgeons Playing Ping Pong.

Pidgeons Playing Ping Pong.

Pigeons is quickly developing a very committed fan-base thanks to their fun(k)-loving vibes, incredibly tight musicianship, and catchy songwriting. While their original songs are nothing short of awesome, the crowd especially enjoyed their medley of “Funkytown” > “Play that Funky Music” > “Brick House” > “Play that Funky Music.” The band also covered tunes by Lotus and David Bowie. This is a band who keeps it interesting whether they’re playing tunes from Pizzaz, Pleasure, or Bowie.

If you have yet to catch a Pigeons show you can check out their new album, Pizzaz, and upcoming tour dates here!

-Cy

All photos per the author. All videos and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Neck Deep & Other UK Bands Are Currently On One Epic Pop-Punk Tour

By: Nathan Sheppard

This past Friday, Neck Deep rocked the Ogden Theatre with an electric performance that was one to remember. The night also featured Speak Low If You Speak Love, Creeper, and Seaway, giving the entire night all of the elements of an epic pop-punk show.

Seaway.

Seaway.

Speak Low opened the evening and did not disappoint for those who came early. The alternative band blended together just the right amount of power chords and acoustic guitar for a stellar opening set. Fellow UK band Creeper was next up and had their “Creeper Cult” singing and dancing to every song along the way. Creeper delivered their signature goth punk style while warming up the audience for a night of crowdsurfing and circle pits. Seaway (a.k.a SeaBoiz) was next and hyped the crowd for Neck Deep.

After creating a following with their album Life’s Not Out To Get You, Neck Deep released their third album, The Peace and the Panic! last year. From the very first note of “Happy Judgement Day,” the crowd went wild and immediately started a theatre-wide sing-a-long. The crowd erupted into screams and cheers for each song, but especially fan favorites like “Kali Ma” and “December.” Neck Deep slowed it down a bit in the middle of their set with a couple of acoustic songs so that everyone could catch their breath, and singer Ben Barlow talked about losing his father and why music is therapy. The band ended the show with the banger “Where Do We Go When We Go.”

Neck Deep.

Neck Deep.

If you haven't had the chance to see Neck Deep live, check out the remaining dates of the tour and their newest album The Peace and the Panic! here.   

-Nathan

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

This Is Why Every Fruition Show Feels Like Home

By: Mirna Tufekcic

Fruition, a five-piece band from Portland, Oregon, have been playing around Colorado for around ten years, accumulating big love from their fans and innocent first-time observers alike. I proudly consider myself a part of the Fruity Freaks Family, as we Fruition fans like to call ourselves. I have been following Fruition for over eight years now, seeing them play in bars like Oskar Blues in Lyons and at day sets at Ned Fest. They’ve come a long way since then and their newest album, Watching It All Fall Apart, which dropped earlier this month, is a testament to that growth.

Fruition.

Fruition.

For someone like me, who has seen Fruition turn from a green seedling into a blossoming tree, experiencing them rock Denver’s Ogden this past weekend was heartwarming. Their Saturday night performance was nothing short of awesome. The set was filled with music off the new record with soulful songs like “Northern Town” and “I Should Be (On Top Of The World),” rock’n’roll tunes like “I’ll Never Sing Your Name,” “Stuck On You,” “There She Was,” and finally sprinkled throughout were old school Fruition barn-stompers like “Never Again and Boil Over.”  As the band got onstage and the lights turned red and blue, the energy was stoked and by the third song in, the room was electric. People were dancing and singing and catching up with old friends. Taking it all in was a blast.

The thing about a band like Fruition is their family, good-time, sing-and-stomp-along vibe beckons to be experienced on multiple occasions. Going to their shows is like coming back home to catch up with old friends and family and share in the common thread that is their amazing musical talent and performance. And although their latest record is a departure from their grassroots foundation toward an experiment in rock‘n’roll and soul, the essence of Fruition still remains. Any band that plays together and stays together for ten years or more is bound to search and experiment new ways of expressing themselves, and these five members just keep exploring ways to harmonize and express themselves individually and simultaneously cohesively. Morphing into maturity through depth and curiosity, all the while staying grounded and kind, is something that I have always admired about Fruition and why I always believed that they were a powerhouse of musicians worthy of everyone’s attention. After seeing them play this past weekend, my admiration of them is only stronger and my anticipation of their next Colorado visit only higher.   

Check out Fruition at Winter Wondergrass this month, February 24th in Steamboat Springs and later this summer at Red Rocks Amphitheater on August 18th. You can follow them on Facebook for more events and cool videos, like behind the making of their latest album.

-Mirna

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Colorado Halloween 2017: Your Guide To All The Best Halloween Shows Happening This Month

By: Mirna Tufekcic

‘Tis the season of witches and warlocks, zombies and monsters, and some kick-ass parties honoring All Hallow’s Eve. If you’re anything like us, you’ve already started gearing up for the most fun weekend of the year- the one that celebrates the weird with music, costumes, and more music. Colorado music lovers, we’re here to tear you apart with choices of all the celebrations taking place around the state for this year’s Halloween weekend.

Boulder

Papadosio.

Papadosio.

Thursday 10/26: The Boulder Theater presents the unmistakeable: The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Colorado’s Elusive Ingredient- Denver’s Rocky Horror Shadowcast will perform along with the film. Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a virgin to this interactive movie and theatre performance, it’s sure to make a great start to a funky weekend. The key word for this event is interactive.  Expect to touch or be touched.  

Friday & Saturday 10/27-10/28: Halloween weekend at The Boulder Theater will host a two-night “Rave from the Grave” party with Papadosio and friends. Papadosio plans to pay tribute to some of the 90s and early 2000s electronic artists that influenced their path as a band. To pop the cherry of this event, Boulder’s own Dynohunter will take guests on a journey through deep, grounding house tunes, just to lift you up through organic electro peaks and valleys you can rave about all over the dance floor. Saturday night, the party will start with Bass Physics, a one man show put together by Denver’s esteemed Arja Adair guaranteed to provide positive tunes while mixing up acoustic guitar and electronic sounds. Two-day passes are already sold out for this weekend, but click here to buy a one day ticket before they’re all gone. This event is likely to sell out soon.

Sunday 10/29: The Fox Theatre is hosting Sinful Sunday Halloween Party with Midnight North and All Chiefs. This ought to be an upbeat, dancey, bodies-grinding-all-night kind of show as Midnight North brings their soul, country, rock’n’roll, and All Chiefs their indie beeps, boops, and digital sprinkles to make any body groove. The show is free to industry folks; if you’re not one of those get your hands on some tickets here.

Tuesday 10/31: Snakehips make their return to Fox Theatre for Halloween, where we expect to see lots of fun costumes groovin' to their bass drops. Tickets here.

Denver

Marilyn Manson.

Marilyn Manson.

Saturday 10/07: The Mile High City has big things on the agenda throughout October in almost every music venue. The spirit of the season starts with thousands of living dead wannabes at Denver’s Zombie Crawl, and the city will no doubt be bustling with dark spirits from then through the end of October.

Thursday 10/19: Marilyn Manson will bring his tour to the Fillmore Auditorium, as long as he’s healed up from his recent stage injury. While not a Halloween weekend event, it’s close enough, especially since he’s known for having the most disturbing Instagram account around. Enjoy. UPDATE: This show is rescheduled for 01/20/18 - details here

Friday 10/20: The Gasoline Lollipops are bringing you one scary hoedown at Denver's Lost Lake tonight. Hosted by 105.5 The Colorado Sound, Grayson County Burn Band and Whipperpool will join Colorado's favorite alt-country outfit on good 'ol Colfax for an eerie time. 

Friday 10/27: Lost Lake Lounge is throwing their Terrified Halloween party with Modern Suspects, a “popternative trio,” Optycnerd, an electo-indie-pop beats duo that bring the heat to the dance floor, and Vynyl, an electronic hip-hop pop duo. This one’s set for a full house of Denver-based musicians and beat-makers bound to terrify you into dancing the night away.

Friday 10/27: Syntax Physic Opera will host an early event starting at 7PM called Hell Toupee, A Lounge Night in Hell, which is a comedy and variety show. Then starting at 9PM, you can check out Lillian’s album release party.

Friday & Saturday 10/27-10/28: The Oriental Theater will have a weekend packed full of halloween celebrations. Friday night is the Third Annual Monster Ball with Alice in Chains and KISS tribute bands. Need I say more? Saturday night is reserved for a costume contest event called MORTIFIED, an international storytelling event where adults share their most embarrassing and hilarious childhood artifacts in front of total strangers. Dare I say terrifying?

Optycnerd.

Optycnerd.

Saturday 10/28: Bar Standard/Milk Bar will host a Colorado HELLoween Ball with TR/ST. It's the biggest event of the year from promoters Ritual Noize. TR/ST is considered a popular goth/industrial/dark electronic artist and HELLoween is a party for just such fans, so it should be a hell of a time if you’re into that scene. According to Ritual Noize, “HELLoween has always been about mixing club culture, the Halloween tradition and live musical performances with a horror theme attached.” This year the decor will be Psycho-themed; hurray for Hitchcock fans!

Saturday 10/28: Halloween Hootenanny at The Bluebird Theater will feature Denver DJ Wesley Wayne and a costume competition that can score you year passes to some of Denver’s most beloved venues. Click on the Hootenanny link above for details and if you plan to attend, you’d better come in your best costume yet.

Saturday 10/28: Gothic Theatre is throwing Groovy Pirate Ghost Mystery party with Deer Tick and special guest Chris Crofton, who will open up the event with, hopefully, a very funny set before things get groovy and ghosts begin to apparate. Deer Tick hails from Providence, Rhode Island with a rebellious take on alternative, folk, rock’n’roll, and country vibes.

Saturday 10/28: Larimer Lounge is hosting their Halloween Edition of Dance Yourself Clean with DJs inspired by the likes of LCD Soundsystem, Grimes, Blood Orange, and more. Shake off the sugar with this one.

Estes Park

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Saturday 10/21: The Shining Ball at the Concert Hall of the famous Stanley Hotel will have yet another yearly Halloween staple with Denver’s beloved Gasoline Lollipops. We imagine the band will truly bring the spirit of Halloween to life, with growls from frontman Clay Rose and howls from the audience over the band’s poignant lyrics and dark, stompy tunes.

Saturday 10/28: The legendary Masquerade Ball at the Stanley Hotel will conclude the Halloween events at the haunted property with live music by Jonny Mogambo backed by a full band.

Fort Collins

Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Friday 10/13: Mishawaka Amphitheatre will host a Rocky Horror Picture Show screening all its own with a troupe of actors, games, and trivia. There will also be a costume contest and drink specials. Practice your time warp now.

Friday 10/27: Hodi’s Half Note is getting metal with Skinned, A Flood Foretold, Inficier, and Voracious Souls. Headbang until witching hour.

Greeley

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Friday 10/27: Sweaty soul outfit The Burroughs are headlining Moxi Theatre’s 4th Annual Halloween Extravanganza, and chill wave beach band Slow Caves are opening. No word on if the bands are dressing up yet, but fingers crossed.

Sunday 10/29: The Moxi is also throwing a purely metal Halloween show this weekend with Bash, Skinned, Last Word, Infinited Conscious, and Cyber Zodiac. Go get weird.

Jamestown

The Alcapones.

The Alcapones.

Saturday 10/28: If it’s in your interest to get away from all the debauchery and chaos of city life during Halloween, then the quaint town of James has something for you. They are hosting The Alcapones at the good ‘ol Merc. A ska/reggae band with a mountain flare, The Alcapones will definitely bring the house down and set this mountain roof on fire.    

And finally, for those of you wanting to see and hear live music without all of the Halloween hype, here’s what’s good:

Friday 10/27: Tonight at the Hi-Dive in Denver is Jocko Homo, an event to pay tribute to 90s and 2000s alternative rock bands like Incubus, Weezer, and Modest Mouse, with cover bands honoring all three respectively. Sidenote: Actual Incubus and Weezer play Red Rocks this month.

The Infamous Stringdusters.

The Infamous Stringdusters.

Friday & Saturday 10/27-10/28: Denver’s The Ogden Theatre will host two nights of The Infamous Stringdusters this weekend. Party down.

Saturday 10/28: Red Rocks Amphitheatre will be abuzz with Russ, an American hip-hop singer/songwriter, recording artist, and producer.

Tuesday 10/31: Dream pop four-piece Alvvays  are ringing in actual Halloween night at Denver's Bluebird Theater with Jay Som.

Tuesday 10/31: Denver's own Itchy-O play Summit Music Hall on Halloween, which is fitting for this avant-garde and experimental marching band. The show is sponsored by Meow Wolf, so expect to get weird. 

See you out there somewhere Halloweenies.

-Mirna

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Have something to add to this list? Let us know here.

Female-Fronted Acts Bring Strong Performances To Denver's Ogden Theatre

By: Matti Earley

Last week, Denver’s Ogden Theatre saw two strong, female-led groups take the stage: Sylvan Esso and Flock of Dimes.

Flock of Dimes.

Flock of Dimes.

Before opener Jenn Wasner started the solo venture Flock of Dimes, she was one half of Wye Oak. Once solo, Wasner released If You See Me, Say Yes via Partisan Records. That title is hopeful, as if the listener is on the edge of a revelatory experience, and last week, it was clear that Wasner’s music definitely sounds wrapped up in that.

Wasner began with four tracks, including the standout “Everything is Happening Today.” In her words, it captures the moment, “where time melts and previously buried memories are unlocked- where every autumn day that I’ve ever experienced is suddenly present and available at my fingertips”. Later, she added in some of her older music. “Prison Bride” came out, venturing all the way back to her 2011 catalogue, and the tune brought a grittier edge to what had been a more idyllic show. She ended her set with a cover, “No More ‘I Love You’s’” by Annie Lennox. Younger  audience members might not have known who Lennox is, but after Wasner’s performance, she likely has several new fans.

Amelia Meath.

Amelia Meath.

Next up were Sylvan Esso, and from the moment Amelia Meath appeared onstage, her energy was contagious. With the help of her platform shoes, she bounced around effortlessly to bandmate Nick Sanborn’s electronic production. “Sound” was an appropriate start to their set, with the opening line, “I was gonna write a song for you”.

Just three years ago, Sylvan Esso were an act trying to make it; now the band had just come from Lollapalooza to multiple, sold-out Colorado shows. Meath and Sanborn appeared keenly aware of their transformation into such a popular act, and thanked the audience constantly. And to add to their charm, on top of their humility, the duo were also kind of hilarious. Between performances, they related anecdotes about inebriated texting and Sanborn’s aunt, who was in attendance, also got a funny mention.

The bubbly enthusiasm of the duo transferred into all songs, even some of the slowest ones. “Die Young” is normally one of those more somber tracks recorded, but in front of a crowd it became an anthem. Their encore brought them back to their roots with the final number, “Play It Right,” which was the first collaboration between Sanborn and Meath, and is part of how they met.

Overall, it was a strong bill at Denver’s Ogden last Thursday with two powerful ladies at the front of it all. Check out more photos from the night here.

-Matti

All photos per the author. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Chris Robinson Brotherhood Are Bringing The Love to Denver This Thursday

By: Will Baumgartner

A consciousness shift is happening around the Chris Robinson Brotherhood. A handful of years ago, the most common response to hearing the band name might have been, “Oh, you mean the guy from The Black Crowes?” But today when I say, “Chris Robinson Brotherhood is coming to The Ogden this Thursday, February 2nd, and of course I’ll be going to the show,” I’ve been met with responses like, “I love that band! Can I go with?” or “I’ve heard their shows are great, I should get tickets to that too.”

Yes you should. CRB, as they’re affectionately known by fans, consistently deliver rousing and inspiring performances rich with not only high-level musicianship and song-craft, but also a sense of family, belonging, and welcome with every show. This spirit of openness and warmth is reflected in the titles of their two nearly back-to-back 2016 releases, 'Anyway You Love, We Know How You Feel' and its companion EP from the same recording sessions, 'If You Lived Here, You Would Be Home by Now.' Released on July 29th and November 4th of last year respectively, CRB painted a two-paneled picture of a group of musicians and songwriters who manage to be hard-grooving, thoughtful, and fun all at once using a varied palette of musical styles and influences. Who wouldn't want to be in on one of their concert experiences and feel like they’re a part of that family?

Chris Robinson Brotherhood.

Chris Robinson Brotherhood.

CRB have been around since 2011, but the feel of their most current records, their first self-produced releases recorded on the side of Mount Tamalpais near San Francisco, are of a family that have grown together through extensive touring, collaborative songwriting, and endless conversations around meals cooked by band members. They visit record stores everywhere they go and stack their newly-purchased vinyl on their tour bus turntable every night. The group’s core: Chris Robinson on vocals and guitar, lead guitarist Neal Casal, and keyboardist Adam McDougal (who stepped over from The Black Crowes) have been together since the beginning, and are now all involved in the songwriting process. Drummer Tony Leone (Ollabelle) brings a touch of his jazz background to the grooves, and has also joined in on the songwriting, and bassist Jeff Hill holds it all together with a deeply soulful pocket.

Watch CRB play "Narcissus Soaking Wet" live:

The band’s latest recordings also show a group that has grown beyond its former identification as a Deadhead-type act into something richer and more difficult to pigeonhole into any simple genre classification. The cosmic funk of 'Anyway You Love...'’s opening track, “Narcissus Soaking Wet,” lets us know right away that the vistas have widened for CRB with echoes of Sly and The Family Stone and early Funkadelic wafting through the grooves. The lyrics, too, are far from simplistic, revealing a sociological awareness, an artful use of stream-of-consciousness imagery, and a sly humor that outstrips most jam-band lyrics by miles. Listening all the way through 'Anyway You Love' is a trip that takes you through a mid-60s-Dylan-esque time (think Highway 61 Revisited / Blonde On Blonde) with a stint into The Band-style Americana on “Ain’t It Hard But Fair,” more groovy and variegated scenery on “Give Us Back Our Eleven Days,” “Some Gardens Green,” “Leave My Guitar Alone,” and “Oak Apple Day,” (which is actually a song about CRB). The record then ends with the heartfelt, Gospel-soaked “California Hymn,” and as any good trip should always stop with near-religious feeling of wholeness and peace, this one certainly does.

If 'Anyway You Love' is an extended trek, 'If You Lived Here...' is a day trip into side roads and lesser-known destinations, some of them practically off the map. “New Cannonball Rag” has a swinging, rolling feel again reminiscent of some of The Band’s best stuff, “Roan County Banjo” goes from country-ish to almost discordant craziness at the end, and the jaunt continues through a few more changes in scenery to end on the gentle empathic kindness of “Sweet, Sweet Lullaby.”

Neal Casal. 

Neal Casal. 

In anticipation for this Thursday’s Ogden show, I recently got the chance to ask CRB guitarist Neal Casal some questions about the band, life on the road, and music in general. His answers shed more light on CRB’s latest sounds, and the inspirations behind their newest music:

It’s easy to see why the word “brotherhood” is part of your band name; there’s a clear feeling of love and community in your music. Do you feel that’s been growing the longer you’ve played together? 

The sense of community that The CRB promotes is definitely growing the longer we play together. We’re entering our seventh year as a band, and the seeds we planted back in 2011 are definitely showing flowers now, and it’s a nice thing to see. We have a great group of fan/friends/family across the country and we’re looking forward to another year of touring and visiting everyone. 

How do you feel that the in-studio writing process of 'Anyway You Love, We Know How You Feel' affected the way the songs on the album turned out? 

It brought more immediacy to our process and applied some pressure to us, which turned out to be a good thing. Everyone hates deadlines but sometimes they can be good; they can force you to do things that maybe you wouldn’t have otherwise. 

I’d imagine that working with the relatively new rhythm section of Tony and Jeff has brought about some changes in the band’s overall feel. Has that felt like a pretty organic process? What do you think these guys have brought to CRB’s sound and vibe? 

Tony and Jeff have changed the sound of our band dramatically and brought so much musicality, fluidity, and versatility to our sound. I can’t say enough great things about these guys and how important they are to the sound, but also to the vibe of the band. With them, we can explore any kind of music we like, and there’s a sustainability to our future that we had never felt previously. 

I’ve seen some hopeful signs among the music community that people seem to be rediscovering a respect and appreciation for the album as an art form unto itself, and there’s definitely a feeling of intention in the way 'Anyway You Love' and 'If You Lived Here' are put together. Did the band spend a lot of time just looking at these releases as whole documents and shaping them accordingly, or was that more of a quick, intuitive thing? 

We’ve always approached records as complete documents because that’s how we grew up thinking of them, and that’s how we’ve always worked and always will work. There’s no rediscovering anything for us: this is our way of life.

I hear so many different possible influences in your playing that I’m not even going to bother speculating- so who have some of your biggest influences been on guitar? 

Malcolm Young, Magic Sam, Dickey Betts, Blind Owl Wilson, Robert Nighthawk, Mick Taylor, Ry Cooder, Clarence White, Nic Jones, Ollie Halsall, John Renbourn, Doc Watson, Scott Gorham, Julian Bream, Baden Powell, Leo Nocentelli, Randy RhoadsFreddie King, Mississippi John Hurt, Jim Hall, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and of course, the great Gabor Szabo.

On an average afternoon, or an evening off, what might be a handful of albums you’d be listening to? 

Incredible String Band - The Hangman’s Beautiful Daughter
Magic Sam - Black Magic 
Charlie Rich- The Essential Charlie Rich
Ronnie Lane - Anymore For Anymore
Cass McCombs - Mangy Love
Bobby Hutchinson - Components
Kacy And Clayton - Strange Country
Eddie Bo - Hook And Sling
Kimono My House - Sparks

CRB. Photo Credit: Stuart Levine

CRB. Photo Credit: Stuart Levine

Your songwriting relationship with Chris has clearly grown over the years. When you first joined, was it more of a thing where he brought in the songs and you just played leads, or have you worked together on songs since the beginning? 

We worked on songs together from day one and have always cultivated our writing partnership. He had some songs he’d written on his own and will always do that, but we really enjoy writing songs together and it’s a big part of our work flow. 

There’s a quote from Chris I read recently, “These are our services when we play our music.” I love that because it evokes a church-like atmosphere, and while I’ve never been “religious,” there’s an undeniable power in church services- a sense of people collectively reaching for some power bigger than themselves, and a joyousness in that collective effort. How does The CRB engage and work with the audience to get that feel?

Human beings are made of music; it’s as ancient and innate in us as anything can be. So we’re just taking part in this time-honored ritual of invoking it, and stirring it in people. We’re just a reminder to let you know that’s it’s there inside, and needs to be related to. The muse is not something to be ignored, in anyone, ever. It needs expression in the form of dancing, singing, or just hanging out and listening and being a greater part of your community. So we’re just here to help that process along. 

Any special treats or surprises planned for this Thursday? Have have you guys ever played The Ogden before? 

We’ve never played The Ogden, so we’re really excited about that. Denver was one of the first cities that really took us in during our earlier years, so it’s always a special place for us. 

After you wrap up your current tour in New Orleans on March 31st, what’s next?

More touring throughout the year, and we’re releasing a new record later this year as well. Looking forward to it all!

CRB tour often and are well into their latest journey, so this Thursday is a great time to catch them live and join the party! They hit The Ogden Theater in Denver this Thursday, February 2nd (I’ll be there!), and continue on to The Center for the Arts in Crested Butte this weekend, The State Room in Salt Lake City next week, Sheridan Opera House in Telluride 2/10-2/11, and The Belly Up in Aspen on 02/12. Their tour will continue through New Mexico, Alabama, California, Nevada, and West Virginia, wrapping up at one of their favorite gatherings, Hogs For The Cause, in New Orleans on March 31st. Stay tuned because CRB are already recording a new album, and I, for one, can’t wait to hear it.  

-Will

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Drive-By Truckers Told Denver Some of the American Stories That Need to Be Heard

By: Sierra Voss

Drive-By Truckers graced Denver’s Ogden Theatre stage this past weekend, performing a double show Friday and Saturday nights. And for those of you who don’t know Drive-By Truckers, it's time you become acquainted. The band has been making waves in the national music scene this past year, and rightfully so.

Drive-By Truckers have taken on the difficult, but needed duty of being a mirror for America. This band crafts the stories the country needs to hear. They speak to citizen’s frustrations with our government's treatment of its peoples by pairing their storytelling with incredible musical talent in a dynamic showcase of song structure and blending of popular genres. Their approach packages a much needed expression and interpretation of the world around us in a digestible sound for audience members. The band blends rock, folk and Americana flares in various combinations throughout their discography. They have truly made a record representative of this moment in history.

Drive-By Truckers are celebrating their twentieth year as a band. This epic group of Alabama and Georgia natives is made up of band members Patterson Hood (lead vocals/guitar), Mike Cooley (lead vocals/guitar), Brad Morgan (drums), Jay Gonzalez (keys/guitar/backing vocals), and Matt Patton (bass guitar/backing vocals). Their most recent album, American Band is their eleventh record, stacked with one heroic song after the next, including fan favorites; “What It Means,” “Ramon Casiano,” and “Guns Of Umpqua.” The album is no doubt a powerful one. Many, if not all, of its stories grab your heart with haunting lyrics and descriptions of our society at large:

He was running down the street/when they shot him in his tracks. About the only thing agreed upon/is he ain't coming back. There won't be any trial/so the air it won't be cleared.”

Drive-By Truckers will be touring the US for the remainder of January and February, followed by a European tour in March. If you have a chance to catch them live, do it! Their album is worth a deep exploration; listen here now.

-Sierra

All photos per the author. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Your Guide To Colorado Shows For New Year's Eve

By: Hannah Oreskovich

It’s time to pop bottles Colorado! Here are our picks for New Year’s Eve shows this weekend:

Berthoud

Jeremy Mohney at City Star Brewing in Berthoud 9PM-Close

Jeremy Mohney.

Jeremy Mohney.

Boulder’s Jeremy Mohney released multiple EPs this year, both of which definitely caught our ear. The jazz/swing artist is throwing down at City Star Brewery to welcome in 2017, and we definitely recommend getting your swing moves on at this one. Mohney will have your feet tappin’ in no time, and after a few celebration libations, you won’t want to sit still. Details here.

Boulder

Andrew Sturtz & Friends at The No Name in Boulder 10PM-Close

Andrew Sturtz.

Andrew Sturtz.

Soulful singer/songwriter Andrew Sturtz will be holding things down behind the big brown door tomorrow night for NYE. Known locally for his solo work and his performances with The Constellation Collective and other groups, Strutz will croon you into the new year in style. Plus, there’s no cover. What’s not to dig? Deets here.

Lady and The Gentleman at The Lazy Dog in Boulder 10PM-Close

Boulder’s Lady and The Gentleman have made some changes to their lineup this year, but they’re still bringing mad grooves to the Colorado scene. Tomorrow they’ll grace the stage at The Lazy Dog, and no cover means no excuses. Get to it! More info right here.

The Alcapones at Conor O’Neill’s Irish Pub in Boulder 10PM-Close

The Alcapones.

The Alcapones.

If you want to be shaken up Boulder, here’s your chance! The minstrel show of The Alcapones will be taking over Conor’s to dance you into the wee hours of 2017. Come hang and get rowdy! There will be lots of funky horn playing for your listening pleasure. More info here.

Yonder Mountain String Band with The Railsplitters at The Boulder Theater in Boulder 8PM-Close

Yonder Mountain String Band.

Yonder Mountain String Band.

Nederland’s Yonder Mountain String Band are holding down the BT for NYE. The five-piece bluegrass band well-known around these parts will share the stage with Boulder’s The Railsplitters. Get over to get down! Tickets here.

Denver

Flobots with Nahko and Medicine For The People at The Ogden Theatre in Denver 8PM-Close

Flobots

Flobots

Denver’s Flobots members have been locally active in several awesome events this year, including Denver’s “Our Neighbors, Ourslves” refugee benefit and the Rock Against The TPP event. Tonight, the crew will swing you into the new year with Portland’s Nahko and Medicine For The People at The Ogden. Tickets here.

Fox Street & Friends with Tiger Party at The Bluebird Theatre in Denver 9PM-Close

Dever’s Fox Street & Friends will be rolling in the new year tomorrow at The Bluebird with a 12-piece band and double sets, which will include music from the movies Boogie Nights and Blow, and tracks by Rick James, David Bowie, and Prince. The band’s frontman Jonathan Huvard is relocating to NYC in 2017, so this show is your chance to catch this crew together in what may be their last local performance for awhile. Tiger Party will open the night with songs by LCD Soundsystem. Tickets for this dance party here!

Itchy-O with Total Unicorn at Summit Music Hall in Denver 8PM-Close

We actually spent our NYE with Denver’s Itchy-O last year, so we’re here to tell you this show is going to be a magical time! The mysteriously masked band will have you boogieing all over Summit Music Hall; Total Unicorn is opening. Enter the dark. Tickets here.

Slim Cessna’s Auto Club with Kid Congo Powers at 3 Kings Tavern in Denver 10PM-Close

Slim Cessna’s Auto Club will be laying out their ‘Commandments’ for you tomorrow evening at 3 Kings Tavern, and we’ve actually got a whole interview with Slim himself for you here. This show will be one crazy ride into 2017, so take it! Tickets here.

The Yawpers with The Other Black at The Oriental Theater in Denver 7PM-Close

The Yawpers. Photo Credit: Hannah Oreskovich

The Yawpers. Photo Credit: Hannah Oreskovich

We love The Yawpers. And we love The Other Black. And both of them are sharing the stage tomorrow night at The Oriental for NYE! The Moved and Evan Holm & The Restless Ones are opening the show, making for a full lineup of Denver badassery. Get to this gig- seriously. Tickets here.

Winehouse Masquerade Ball with Judge Roughneck at Mercury Cafe in Denver 930PM-Close

Winehouse.

Winehouse.

Denver’s Amy Winehouse tribute band Winehouse are ringing in the new year at Mercury Cafe with plenty of sultry, soulful vibes. Presales are only $20 and Judge Roughneck is opening the night, so grab tickets while you can! This will be an awesome show. Deets here.

Durango

Nappy Roots with Jerney at Animas City Theatre in Durango 9PM-Close

Jerney.

Jerney.

Nappy Roots are closing out the year in Durango tomorrow, and Denver’s Jerney is opening the gig. Jerney has been dropping new music like crazy this year, and this is one of his last Colorado shows, so make sure to get to it! Tickets here.

Greeley

The Burroughs with Bryce Merritt at The Moxi Theatre in Greeley 8PM-Close

The Burroughs.

The Burroughs.

Greeley’s The Burroughs dropped some sweet new music this past year, and they’ll be playing that for you tonight + more tunes at The Moxi. The nine-piece soul pop outfit will be joined by Bryce Merritt for good measure. Wicked. Tickets here!

Fort Collins

Rose Hill Drive with The Velveteers at Hodi’s Half Note in Denver 9PM-Close

The Velveteers. Photo Credit: Sierra Voss

The Velveteers. Photo Credit: Sierra Voss

Denver’s The Velveteers are arguably one of the most successful acts coming out of Colorado right now. Fronted by Demi Demitro, the heavy rock two-piece will make you headbang all the way up until Boulder’s Rose Hill Drive takes the stage at Hodi’s. Go get yourself hypnotized. Tickets here.

Rollinsville

Jaden Carlson Band at The Stage Stop in Rollinsville 10PM-Close

Jaden Carlson.

Jaden Carlson.

Teenage musical prodigy Jaden Carlson has had quite the year in the Colorado music scene. From impressive opening slots for bands like The Revivalists to her own headlining performances at The Fox, Carlson has proved she knows how to break. things. down. Head out to her last performance of the year tomorrow at The Stage Stop! We guarantee it will be an impressively good time. More info here.

That’s it for us for NYE Colorado! See you in 2017!

-Hannah

Follow Hannah on Instagram and Twitter.

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. Header photo per Sierra Voss. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat

December 17th Has Officially Been Declared Colorado's Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Day

By: Sierra Voss

Governor Hickenlooper hereby proclaimed December 17th as Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Day last night. That’s right, this sweet Denver-based band now have a day all their own for all they have brought to the world with their music, and more specifically, for all they have brought to Colorado.

During the short ceremony prior to the show, Hickenlooper made a declaration to the sold-out Ogden crowd, bestowing the honor upon the band:

“So we want to do something really special tonight to thank them for everything they have done to put us on the map in such a big way…
Whereas the folk R&B group haS traveled over 208,000 miles in the last 18 months, touring the world and playing sold-out venues; and
Whereas, since June 2015, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats have performed 246 shows in more than 16 countries across the globe; and
Whereas Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats sold over 640,000 albums and have performed for over 700,000 people, not including you; and
Whereas 7.1 million people have listened on Spotify and streamed the equivalent of over 432 years of the group's music; and
Whereas, managed by Chris Tetzeli and Denver-based 7S Management, the group, even with their global travel, has deep roots to the Colorado community; and
Whereas their upcoming August 2017 show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a world-renowned venue with 10,000 seats, sold out in just 7 minutes!; and
Whereas Colorado’s music scene continues to grow and thrive through the enormous talent, dedication, and passion for community that musicians like Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats brings to our state;
Therefore, I, John W. Hickenlooper, Governor of the entire State of Colorado, do hereby proclaim forever after, December 17th, 2016 as Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Day in the state of Colorado."

And so, on the snowy Saturday night, fans celebrated a day in the name of the band as Nathaniel Rateliff dropped to his knees, thanking the audience as the Colorado flag was wrapped around his shoulders.

The adoring crowd launched into dance as the band opened their emotionally heartfelt set. The room was buzzing with positive vibes encapsulating the support this community has had for Rateliff & The Night Sweats throughout their journey. It was clear how moved Nathaniel was as he stopped every few song to praise the crowd and speak his heart, wiping away tears.

It seemed all and every popular Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats song was played, including of course, the band’s hit song, S.O.B. The band closed with this track and departed the stage, prompting the crowd to burst out into chorus singing back to the band for an encore.

It was a magical night for Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats fans, and an important recognition from the state regarding Colorado’s growing music scene. The band’s next announced Colorado gig is the aforementioned Red Rocks Ampitheater show in August 2017. Looking to catch a show before next summer? Check out their international tour schedule here.

-Sierra

All photos per the author. All videos and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

The Wood Brothers Return to Colorado This Friday at Denver's Ogden Theatre

By: Sierra Voss

Looking for Colorado’s next foot-stompin show? The Wood Brothers are set to play Denver’s Ogden Theatre this Friday night, December 9th.

Brothers Chris and Oliver Wood first formed The Wood Brothers back in 2004. Since then, they have released six studio albums, including their most recent album Paradise (2015). Recorded at Dan Auerbach’s Easy Eye Studio in Nashville, this is Chris Woods’ debut playing electric bass on various tracks throughout the album. Joined by Jano Rix on drums and shutiar (percussive guitar), these boys have mastered the soulfolk genre all their own. Their music is a flawless translation of folk pickin’ melted into laidback soul beats accompanied by silky vocals and tight bluegrass harmonies.

Check out The Wood Brothers' video for "Luckiest Man":

As an experienced Wood Brothers showgoer, I would highly recommend taking a listen to these gentleman at The Ogden Theatre this Friday evening at 8PM. They have a way of transporting you into your most relaxing daydream, starting your weekend off right.

Don’t know where to begin listening? Some of my favorite Wood Brothers tunes include: “Wastin’ My Mind,” “Blue and Green,” and “The Muse”. Listen to them here and grab some tickets to their show while they last! BolderBeat will catch yah there.

-Sierra

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artist featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.

Courtney Barnett Plays Denver's Ogden Theatre This Tuesday & You Can't Miss It

By: Claire Woodcock

I don’t know about your calendar, but mine is all inked up with hearts Tuesday, November 8th for Australian singer/songwriter Courtney Barnett’s show at the Ogden Theatre in Denver. I’m not a wizard or all-knowing by any means, but I’m predicting it’s going to be one of the greatest shows of the year.

Courtney Barnett.

Courtney Barnett.

Let me be the real with you, like really real. Can we do that? Can we go there together?

Okay, word.

So you know that moment when you’re lying in bed, insomniatic from all that pent-up mind fuzz from the past few months that’s got you at the point where you can’t tell your arms from your legs, your head from your feet, and you’re absolutely sure it’s not going to be okay because despite what friends and family say, you’re absolutely sure that you’re going to explode?

Spring break, March 2015, that was me. Fortunately around then, a friend who shared the same intense affinity for contemporary feminist punk rock anthems sent me “Pedestrian At Best,” the breakout track from the wildly successful Sometimes I Just Sit And Think And Sometimes I Just Sit...  and I bottlerocketed out. Biking around town with my chunkiest headphones, galavanting from one end of the apartment to the other, I could always be found belting, “Put me on a pedestal and I’ll only disappoint you/Tell me I’m exceptional and I’ll promise to exploit you.”

Watch Courtney Barnett's video for "Pedestrian At Best":

When I finally collapsed, I tuned to “Avant Gardener,” and as a wannabe writer who was, you guessed it, down on myself about that prospect, listening to that song from The Double EP: A Sea of Split Peas served as a longtime model on how to tell a compelling story. And then, yeah, my humor became a lot more self-deprecating for a minute, which actually wound up helping me learn to take myself less seriously. It’s for these reasons that the impacts of first discovering CB’s music have crystallized in my heart.

Peep Avant Gardener for yourself:

So moral of the story friends is this: Don’t be afraid to poke fun at yourself for your missteps. CB has proved it's only going to make you that much more punk rock. Come see Courtney Barnett with me this Tuesday, November 8th in Denver. We can feel all the emotions together; whatever’s clever. Grab your ticket(s) now.

-Claire

All photos, videos, and embedded tracks per the artists featured and those credited. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat

Fruity Freaks Went Wild for Fruition at Denver's Ogden Theatre

By: Mirna Tufekcic

Fruition’s biggest headlining gig yet took place at The Ogden Theatre in Denver last Friday. The music of the night kicked off with the dark side of bluegrass, Larry Keel Experience. The alt grass quartet set the mood in the venue with fast-paced stringing, a dominant banjo sound, and foot stomping on and offstage. It was intense and energy-arousing.    

Fruition followed with two rockin’ high-energy sets and an encore that ended with the most appropriate song for their second-home fans, “Meet Me On the Mountain.” All the Fruity Freaks (yes that’s what Fruition fans call themselves, and there’s a facebook page to prove it) danced and sang along as the group pulled out new-after-old-after-new tunes. It was a healthy mix of tracks from each of the albums the band has released since 2010.   

Fruition and Keel.

Fruition and Keel.

When the five-piece played their hit songs, “The Meaning,” “Mountain Annie,” “Broken Hearted,” and “Labor of Love”, it was clear how passionate the fans were as the crowd screamed in response to the start of each song and sang along as Kellen Asebroek, Mimi Naja, and Jay Cobb Anderson turned the mic in our direction.

Mima Naja.

Mima Naja.

If there is a band out there that truly does it all for the music and its fans, Fruition is at the top of the list. They love performing so much that they still played for the hell of it even at the afterparty post-show. Gotta love them for that. Welcome back to Colorado Fruition.

-Mirna

All photos per the author. This feature was edited for brevity and clarity by BolderBeat.