When I started the Homebrew CD series in 2008, my goal was to get music into the hands of people in the Charlotte area so they are more aware of the talent that exists all around them. That goal hasn’t changed. Thanks to three sponsors — Visulite Theatre, Common Market and Rock University — we’ve been able to put together the fourth volume in the series.
On Oct. 15 at the Neighborhood Theatre, seven bands featured on the CD will perform 20-minute sets during a free concert. Stop by, and while you’re there, pick up a free CD.
Here’s a quick rundown of who is featured on Jeff Hahne’s Homebrew Volume 4:
Bubonik Funk (Release party performer) — The quartet kicks off Vol. 4 with “The Feeling Is…” from the CD Wink at the Devil. The band offers funky guitar-driven music that wins over jam band fans as easily as those of rock.
Jeremy Current — “Mile Long Driveway” is the second track on Current’s CD, House on Fire. The song is an indie-folk style of acoustic music that tugs with emotional lyrics and showcases his songwriting and vocal abilities.
Electric Coma (Release party performer) — Electric Coma, AKA Kaitlyn Kennedy, released “Hunger Pains” on her CD Plug In. Her powerful vocals are highlighted against a keyboard backdrop.
Grown Up Avenger Stuff (Release party performer) — Singer Deirdre Kroener was named this year’s Best of Charlotte Best Female Vocalist, and the track “Firecracker” shows as much of her range as it does her rock growl. The band offers a harder-edged brand of melodic rock.
Illicitizen — This husband and wife group released “Two Eggs Any Style” on its self-titled album. There’s a reggae hint here, but don’t think it puts the eclectic duo in any one genre.
The Isaac Spiveys (Release party performer) — Formed by members of two local bands — The Stellas and You Tonight — this rock band is currently working in the studio on its debut album. “Oh My God” was recorded live and I jumped at the chance to include it. When you see them perform, you’d never guess they’ve only been together for a handful of shows so far.
Jamie & Steve — Jamie Hoover and Steve Stoeckel released the catchy pop-rock song “Emily’s Ghost” on their debut album, English Afterthought. The duo may be more familiar to most people in their main band, The Spongetones.
Matrimony (Release party performer) — Former member of the indie rock band Airspace Jimmy Brown has teamed up with his wife, former member of the indie pop group Flagship, for this heartfelt duo. “Last Love” is on their debut album, The Storm & The Eye — one of the year’s best releases, in my mind.
Overmountain Men — David Childers may have “retired” from music, but Bob Crawford of The Avett Brothers sparked his interest with this project — an Americana, easy-rolling group that features Robert Childers and Randy Saxon, as well. “Some Place Along the River” is featured on the band’s debut album, Glorious Day.
Panama Ski featuring Ike Turnah — This duo originally caught my attention with the video for the song “Armor All.” When I found out that song was from an older release, Turnah offered up his 2010 mixtape, Different Spokes. “The Preview” gives a great back and forth between the duo over an old-school sample.
Rekless Youth — Sometimes good old punk rock is all you need. Nothing flashy here as “Love Me, Hate Me” clocks in at just over two minutes. It’s from the band’s EP of the same name.
Soulganic — Soulganic combines elements of jazz and soul with Latin rhythms for a unique brand that’s all its own. “Temporary Thrill” is the lead track from the album From the Storm to the Sun.
Stella Kidd — The hard rock band keeps a steady hand on the pulse of that scene in the Q.C. Its latest EP, Kiddnapped, features “Ball and Chain,” one of its best songs to date.
Mike Strauss Band (Release party performer) — Given the Best of Charlotte award for songwriting, Mike Strauss Band not only features solid songs, but some of the scene’s best musicians. “Gabriel’s Song” is from the album Ideal Road.
Stephen Warwick — Years in the making, Warwick released his debut album Talking Machine earlier this year. “Plans” is another perfect example of the unique style that Charlotte musicians have while showcasing some of the city’s best songwriting.
Wiggle Wagons (Release party performer) — The band may have started in California, but it has brought its brand of rock and country fusion to the Charlotte area. While “In His Name” sounds garage rock one minute, the next you’ll swear it’s rockabilly.
See you on the 15th!
This article appears in Oct 12-18, 2010.
