By Lisa Morgan
It is my hope as the feature writer for CV Weekly, a paper that truly admires, supports and promotes our local musicians that the people of the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas are beginning to realize and appreciate just how much raw, creative talent our valley holds within its mountainscapes. Once again, I have the honor of announcing yet another musical event that brings together a number of our most talented, local musicians. This Friday, March 1st, beginning at 8:30 pm, The Red Barn will be presenting live and loud sets by The Rebel Noise and Blared the Surface, as well as acoustic sets by Eric Taylor of Campaigning for Zeros and Rob Lawrence (formerly with Sol Jah Rock), and introducing Noah Tate.
The Rebel Noise: The Rebel Noise consists of female drummer, Ashley Kay Pintor, her brother and lead guitarist, Collin James Pintor, and Leopoldo (Leo) Rodriguez on guitar and vocals. As a three piece, this band did an excellent job reflecting the influences of White Stripes and The Black Keys among others. The recent addition of bass player, Brian Kiepler, fattens up their sound quite nicely. Leo’s powerful, haunting, emotional vocals give them an alt/rock contemporary edge while the other three players bring forth an “in your face” straight on classic rock backdrop that reflects their wide range of contemporary and roots rock influences from Led Zeppelin to Foo Fighters. Originally from the Central Coast of California, the band recently relocated to the Coachella Valley and has been working endlessly on new material. This is a band that is excited to share their passion and love for music with all who will listen.
Within the month, the band will be embracing an opportunity to record in Arizona at The Conservatory of Recording Arts & Sciences. It will be interesting to see what student-engineer Brad Bacon will be able to do for The Rebel Noise in the studio. I have great expectations as the project will record the band live on analog, the way bands used to be recorded prior the digital/Pro tools invasion. This is something a lot of the big time bands are reverting to in order to recapture the raw sound you hear on the earlier, classic rock recordings. For now you can find their music on Reverb Nation and Facebook. Just be sure to search by typing in the full name “The Rebel Noise”.
Blare the Surface: This band, also known as BtS, will be making their debut this show Friday night. They are three seasoned musicians who formed just recently in the last six months. Based on the mp3s I was given to listen to, they are going to be delivering some powerful, hard rocking, sound experiences. The band consists of front man “Brando” on vocals and guitar, and Brad Fleener on drums. The two formerly played together in the band Two Drink Minimum. Bass player, Greg Cabral, who also plays with the local band Ornament, had some down time and was looking to do something bolder and brasher. Upon running into Brando and finding Brando’s original songs to be lyrically and melodically strong, the three formed and have been working it out and recording since. They now have 9 original tunes with a developed sound that Greg describes as “heavy 70’s, psychedelic, indie rock.” They have a low-fi sound infused with, lush melodic lines that they deliver quite fiercely. This band is so new as a group, that the fan pages and website are still under construction. The only way you’re going to get to experience this band is to be there Friday night. If you love rock and roll, don’t miss it.
Eric Taylor: I personally adore this artist. His band, Campaigning for Zeros is still fully intact and will be performing locally soon. In the meantime, Eric has been laying down some amazing acoustic performances across the valley. His guitar skills are those of a man with extra digits on his hand, but more than that, his melodies and songs are relatable, soulful and absolute ear candy. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing him perform and was incredibly impressed not only by his musical prowess, but by his humble tolerance of people in the audience that apparently can’t appreciate much else outside of the sound of their own voices. It reminded me of an old recording I have of Sublime doing an acoustic set in Long Beach where Bradley Nowell was pouring himself into his music, while obviously being underappreciated by the jabbering crowd. It is my hope that you will be able to hear and fully appreciate Eric Taylor in this acoustic setting as I’m sure those recorded in the presence of Nowell now wish they had. This is an artist with a whole lot to offer musically but who isn’t in it for himself. His passion for music extends to other musicians in providing them opportunities and support. You can check out Eric Taylor’s music on his Facebook fan page or Reverb Nation by entering Eric M Taylor.
Rob Lawrence: Formerly of the band Sol Jah Rock, Rob has played in bands across the country, from New Jersey, to Seattle and here in So Cal. He’s played many genres from classic rock to punk and reggae. Right now he is focusing on his solo, reggae/rock sound. With more music still in the process of being recorded, you can check out video at Reverb Nation and follow him on Facebook.
So here you are with another opportunity to indulge in some really great live original music. There is always the hope that one day one of our own will find success that comes with big stages and venues. But know that these dedicated musicians do this for the love of music and the joy it brings an artist to share their craft, to be heard and appreciated. Do not take for granted the virtual buffet of musical experiences we are so fortunate to have here locally. If you do, one day it may be gone. So come out and support your local music scene and the venues that give them their platform. You won’t be sorry.
The Red Barn is located at 73290 Highway 111, Palm Desert (760) 346-0191
