We Want To Hear More Music Coming From The Rooftops
Summertime is well on it’s way in North Carolina with the heat refusing to let up, but this didn’t stop the masses from coming out to enjoy some of their favorite local bands this past Thursday night on the rooftop of the Rosemary street parking garage in Chapel Hill. Beers from the Carolina Brewery were passed around, sandals were tossed to the side, and the crowds were soaking in the music.
Ryan Gustafson and his crew started the night off. The open air was filled with brilliantly moody melodies rooted deeply yet possessing a sort of grace that softened the somewhat secretively hidden yet dark lyrics. Ryan’s band is part of the Drughorse Collective, a group of local musicians whose members mingle and mix including Max Indian, Light Pines, The Love Language, among others. The collaborations all possess their own strengths but I want to say thank you to the fact that we get to hear Ryan’s incredible vocals as he pulls on the heartstrings of all in ear’s length. Ryan explained that he started this project because “this was me learning to write music”, and it’s obvious he’s on to something.
Ryan Gustafson will be playing a show in August (check his myspace for details) and is also a part of the Hopscotch Music Festival in September.
At this point in the evening the sun had set, the breeze had set in, which only meant conditions were perfect for the headliner, The Old Ceremony and the fans were psyched to get them on stage and it’s clear why. Each member seems to be made for each other, with each part being distinct and feeling almost freeform yet completely controlled and together. It’s apparent that these guys have been playing together awhile. Their music gathers from a wide range of styles and sounds, from post modern pop to hard blues rock and the guys can more than jive with all of it. Django, the lead vocalist/guitarist, has a voice of true power. Whether ballad or a heavy up-tempo, his voice is solid and never seems forced. Honestly, after listening to songs like “Reservations” and “Get to Love” you will have surely developed a new music crush.
The Old Ceremony has a new album coming out titled Tender Age and will be having their release party at the Cat’s Cradle September 17th. Check them out and I’ll see you there!
