Mountain Road. Photograph by Wendy Adams.
Ah, January.
A time of new beginnings. A time to redefine and expand ourselves in the new year. A time for something fresh. Maybe a change in your weekend routine. Try going to a venue you haven’t gone to yet. Try listening to a band you haven’t heard yet. Better yet, try listening to a new genre of music. Well, that’s the resolution I present to you, lovely readers. Are you up for the challenge? Here are some great acts to diversify your sound and get the year rolling.
MOUNTAIN ROAD CD RELEASE PARTY, 1/7, 8PM, ABBEY BAR, $8
If you need more country music in your life, this band may be for you. Specializing in what they call “the perfect blend of current meets classic,” this southern rock band is returning to its roots in Harrisburg. Mountain Road’s four members have toured locally, regionally and nationally, playing their collection of traditional and contemporary country music. Their recognizable sound will be sure to draw newcomers in. Also, Kevin Cole, the lead singer, advanced two rounds on “The Voice.” If that’s not impressive, I don’t know what is.
WEDNESDAY 13 & BOURBON CROW, 1/19, 8PM, H*MAC STAGE ON HERR, $10
This act is for people looking to discover two genres at the same time, so get ready. Wednesday 13 is known as a well-established metal band that features some ghoulish theatrics. However, this show will be a little different. Instead of their regular routine, Wednesday 13 has decided to strip down to an acoustic guitar and adjust their vocals for a different feel. This is part of their “Winter 2017 Acoustic” tour, and the act will feature a Q&A with fans. So, if there’s anything you want to know about playing in a metal band, now’s your time to ask.
FIERCE & LOVERS OF MUSIC (HALFWAY TO PRIDE), 1/28, 7PM, H*MAC STAGE ON HERR, $10
I don’t know about you, but I’m always in need of more strong women in my music selection. From Harrisburg, Lovers of Music features female lead and backup vocals, and Fierce is an all-girl band from Lancaster. Lovers of Music identify as a blend of R&B, jazz and funk, while Fierce is a rock-pop combo. Both acts invite you to feel the music and have a heartfelt time. They’ll come together for the “Halfway to Pride” event, sponsored by the Pride Festival of Central PA. Food and drink specials will be going on, and a drag show is also scheduled for the night. When’s the last time you’ve been to a drag show? Everyone should experience at least one.
Mentionables: Clark’s Secret Identity, Jan. 13, River City Blues Club; Jo Dee Messina, Jan. 20, The Forum; Don Johnson Project, Jan. 21, River City Blues Club; The Highballers, Jan. 21, H*MAC; SPIEL-BURG’s Saturday Solution: First Dose, Jan. 21, J.B. Lovedraft’s Micropub; Anthony Haubert (show tunes), Jan. 22, Carley’s Ristorante & Piano Bar.
Author: Kait Gibboney
