Swans: The iconic post-punk band’s musical transmutation and ‘LSD carpentry’

Posted on February 20, 2015 by brianjbowe

When Swans founder and figurehead Michael Gira talks about his seemingly indefatigable touring and recording schedule, he likens it to the work of a tradesman — a baker or a carpenter — getting out there and doing the work every day.

But admittedly, crafting Swans’ dense and textured aural bombardment is a peculiar line of work.

“Maybe it’s a carpenter on LSD making a building without an architect’s plan,” Gira said, chuckling.

Read more at Local Spins…

Posted in Punk | Leave a comment

Alice Cooper terrorizes Tulip City

Posted on December 19, 2014 by brianjbowe

Master of Rock Horror: Alice Cooper. (Photo/Hunter Desportes)

Once in a while, a concert gives off such strange electric energy that its reverberations can be felt across the ages.

Alice Cooper’s June 21, 1972 show at the Holland Civic Center is definitely one of those. I was a mere baby when it happened. But as a youth in Holland, I heard whispered tales of how that night shook the town’s churchy sensibilities to its core, leaving legions of terrified squares in its wake.

Read more at Local Spins…

Posted in Punk | Leave a comment

Bob Seger dishes out reflective power, real joy and ‘big ol’ nostalgic rock ‘n’ roll’

Posted on December 10, 2014 by brianjbowe
Bob Seger at Van Andel Arena / Anthony Norkus

Bob Seger at Van Andel Arena / Anthony Norkus

On a tour stop at Grand Rapids’ Van Andel Arena, Bob Seger served up a big ol’ nostalgic rock ’n’ roll show, filled with fist-pumping sing-along choruses and renditions of songs played exactly like you remember them from the radio. But he also played songs from his most recent release, “Ride Out,” which added a fresh and feisty energy to the performance.

Read more at Local Spins…

Posted in Bob Seger, Detroit, rock 'n' roll | Leave a comment

In love with ‘the culture and energy’ of house concerts: A balm for the anxiety of a terrifying era?

Posted on November 12, 2014 by brianjbowe

My band, Voluptuous Panic, played a gig at the 2014 Lamp Light Music Festival in Grand Rapids. Here are some of my reflections as a performer and audience member. Read more at Local Spins…

Posted in DIY/DIT, Feature, Grand Rapids, Hippies, House Shows, Indie, Lamp Light, Punk, rock 'n' roll | Leave a comment

House Concert Nirvana: Lamp Light Music Festival aims to hit stride with inspiring, empowering small shows

Posted on November 5, 2014 by brianjbowe

There’s a small-but-growing movement toward house shows — small, cozy concerts staged in living rooms and basements, lightly promoted and accessible mostly to people already in the know. Grand Rapids’ Lamp Light Music Festival gives a wider audience the chance to experience these small-scale shows.

Read more at Local Spins…

Posted in DIY/DIT, Feature, Grand Rapids, House Shows, Indie, Lamp Light, Music | Leave a comment