by Angela Hail, Oklahoma Correspondent

I popped in this CD, having no idea what I was in for.  I had never heard of The Believers.  That problem, thankfully, has now been rectified.  I can tell you that I was hooked from the very first track, and completely floored by the last.  Fronted by founding members Craig Aspen and Cyd Frazzini, this band is an amazing mix of rock n’ roll, bluegrass, old country and something twisted up in between.  Craig Aspen is quoted on their website as saying, “We’ve always considered ourselves a rock band with a country problem.”  Whatever you call it, The Believers have created a sound both unique and so musically fundamental that nearly anyone with a pulse and a little soul will connect. 

Lucky You, the band’s third album, kicks off with “Higher Ground,” a floor stomping harmonic groove that sounds like the most rocking spiritual you’ve ever heard.  With a shredding electric guitar as their witness, Cyd and Craig send the message on up, getting you out of your chair and moving.  This song won’t let you sit still.

The CD then moves through the poppier “I’m Only Dreaming,” and the title track, “Lucky You,” which is a solid rock song that could easily be a main stream radio hit.

The fourth song, “Mother Nature,” has a mellow road-travellin’ vibe with a social message.  With lyrics like, “I don’t believe in foreign oil but I got miles to drive… But I believe in Mother Nature, I don’t wanna hurt no one,” it’s a contemplative song that hints at our society’s inconsistencies while calling for a shedding of our social issues in favor of a more big-picture focus.

Track five made me (literally) drop everything I was doing.  Cyd sings alone on this cover of Judas Priest’s “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin’,” essentially transforming the familiar rock tune and giving it a shadowy, sexy vibe that I never quite heard in the original.  Acoustic guitar gives way to a searing electric.  The bass drums are cavernous.  Intense and ambient, this cover is a testament to the band’s heavy rock roots.

“Read It & Weep” slows everything down while Cyd sits front and center again on this acoustic ballad of heartbreak and letting go.  It’s a beautiful, yet painful song that deals with leaving an abusive relationship: “I don’t care you didn’t mean to – another promise you can’t keep.”

“Who’s Your Baby Now” shows that Cyd Frazzini could have a successful modern country career if she ever got the rock n’ roll out of her bloodstream.  “Your Hurting Ways,” the eight track on the album, is another strong duet between Cyd and Craig showcasing the band’s signature sound and is followed up by the pure twang of “Ring, Ring, Ring.”

This dynamic rollercoaster ride ends with a song called “The Day the Circus Left Town.”  It’s a slow, sauntering tune with the occasional creepy carnival music haunting the background.  “Pack it up, tear it down, and beat it on down the line”–this song feels like the end of the day; the perfect finale for an absolutely stellar album.  I’ve never been much of a country fan, but I am definitely a believer. 

Band website – http://www.thebelieversusa.com

Myspace page – http://www.myspace.com/thebelieversmusic

Where readers can buy the CD and/or download tracks – http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/believers4  or http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/lucky-you/id287137584

by Angela Hail, Oklahoma Correspondent

Sandy Zio’s debut album, All That I Am, is a good, solid adult contemporary CD.  With a rich, soothing voice that took me back to the hay days of Gloria Estefan and Amy Grant, with accompanying music to match, Sandy Zio is an emerging artist that can hold her own vocally and will appeal to anyone who is looking for a new mellow pop CD to add to their collection.                                                 

She opens up with the title track, “All That I Am,” which sets the tone for the rest of the album.  It is sweet and sentimental with very few surprises.  Track 4, “Don’t Stop Talking,” takes it up half a notch.  This is a love song with a little more sass and some interesting vocal layering.  It’s a little freer, a little more upbeat than the first three songs.

The sixth song on the disc is a fun, jazzy version of the old Carpenters song, “We’ve Only Just Begun.”  Backed by electronic piano and a snappy drum track, this is one you might find yourself clapping your hands and bobbing your head to.

On “Sister Madelene,” the album’s eight track, we get a taste of what Sandy can do when she really lets loose.  She pushes herself vocally, displaying pipes impressive enough to stand next to any pop diva, and even shows a little attitude.  I wish there were more tracks on the album like this one.  With a surprise electric guitar mini-solo and what sounds like a full brass section backing her, this song really grooves.

Sandy takes it down a notch after “Sister Madelene” and slips back into the smooth jazz dream she had established at the beginning of the disc.  Track 10, “Dayanu,” caught my ear with its sophisticated musical undertones. Richie Cannata, who renders a beautiful soprano sax solo, is not listed on the album credits, but is mentions on Sandy’s website.

And track 12 is a well-executed cover of Stevie Wonder’s, “Overjoyed.”  Here again the vocals are impeccable, and the mood is intoxicating.  One of my favorite tracks, this is a song to be relished.

The final track on this CD, “Questo Dolce Sogno,” is an Italian version of the fifth track, “Ever After.”  Backed by melodic piano, it leaves you with a lingering sentimentality.

The CD art for this disc (because I’m a sucker for good album art) is a pleasant mix of tasteful photos of Sandy Zio, backgrounds done in rich earth tones, and full lyrics for each song. There are also occasional sketches that have a sometimes Victorian and sometimes 1920’s flapper-era vibe that I found particularly nice.  Sandy Zio’s These are credited to Robert Cobuzio for “original artwork.”

All That I Am is a tasty little album by an emerging new talent.

Tickets On-Sale at Ticketmaster & Electric Fetus only.

Subway Music in the Zoo presented by: Sue McLean & Associates, Inc.

CONCERT SCHEDULE for the remainder of the summer of 2010

July 9  Greg Brown with Bo Ramsey

July 10  Taj Mahal with Willy Porter

July 12  An Evening with Moe.  

July 13  An Evening with Joan Baez  

July 14 Los Lobos with Chester Bay

July 15 Los Lobos with Moreland & Arbuckle

July 16  Dave Koz & Jonathan Butler “Together Again”  

July 18  Los Lonely Boys with The Bridge

July 22  Squeeze & The English Beat

July 31  Lucero & Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit  

August 6 Marc Cohn with Kristina Train

August 7  Jimmy Cliff with Trevor Hall

August 10  Hanson with Rooney

August 12 An Evening with Gaelic Storm  

August 15 An Evening with the Black Crowes (7pm Doors open, 8pm Show)

August 17  George Thorogood & the Destroyers with  Eddie Shaw

August 20 David Sanborn with Patty Peterson & Friends

August 21  Jerry Jeff Walker with The Bobby Vandell Band

August 27 Carolina Chocolate Drops with Roma di Luna

September 4 Crowded House with Lawrence Arabia

What you need to know to have a great concert experience at the Minnesota Zoo: 

•Concert tickets are not pre-sold at the Zoo. If a concert is not sold out, tickets will be available at the Zoo after 6:30 p.m. the evening of the concert.

•All concerts are rain or shine. If the musicians perform there will be no refunds.

•Umbrellas are not permitted in the amphitheater.  Please leave umbrellas in your vehicle.  We suggest ponchos for rainy weather.

•No professional cameras, video equipment, or recording equipment without a pass. 

•The amphitheater features reserved seating for 1,450 guests.

•All prices, dates and artists are subject to change.

•All guests older than the age of one will be charged full price.

•Box seats for selected concerts will have an additional fee.

•All concert goers, including Zoo members, will be charged a $5 parking fee.

•Food and beverages are for sale at the Zoo. Please do not bring outside items.

•Smoking is permitted in the merchandise area and the food service area between the caribou exhibit and the restrooms. Please respect all guests and limit smoking to these two areas.

•Tailgating is not permitted in the Zoo parking lot.

•Service fees are non-refundable.

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July 10 Nestfest, Nestor Tavern, Fargo ND

July 21 Dakota Rockfest Pre-Party, Nestor Tavern, Fargo ND

August 13 Nathan Hancock, Nestor Tavern, Fargo ND

August 20 Refrain Magazine Birthday Bash with Absolute Gruv, Crosstown Lounge, Grand Forks ND. Look for more cake, CD giveaways, and great music.

November 5 The Bowdancer Saga Book Launch Party with Enchanted Ape and Gypsy Lumberjacks, Crosstown Lounge, Grand Forks ND. The movie trailers that Chris O’Brien and Matthew Probst wrote the soundtrack for will be playing on the venues TVs, cake, autographed copies of the book covers, and lots of good music and drink.

Many more Refrain Presents events will be posted. Each one should have an in-depth article about a band or something deeper about the event that you won’t find anywhere else.

July 8-10, 2010 Thunder Mountain Rock Fest, Sawyer ND

Artists: Wednesday Free Party–Rock Sugar; Thursday–Asia Featuring John Payne, The Sweet, Foghat, Blood Sweat & Tears with Chuck Negron Formerly Of 3 Dog Night, and The Guess Who; Friday—Nelson, Great White, Kix, Survivor, and Night Ranger; Saturday–The Veer Union, Framing Hanley, Cavo, Default, and Hinder

Tickets: Camping Passes are $140.00 for Baillies Blue Sky, $100.00 for Irelands Acres, and $80.00 for Shays Shack. Tax, S/H extra. Please call 701-757-7625 to order camping passes Leave a message if necessary and you will be contacted the same day.

Single Day General Admission Passes are $70 and Stage Seating single day tickets are at $130. Stage Seating passes are limited so get them quick. Only available by calling 1-877-881-9447. ALL spots are close to being filled.

Festival Website: http://rockdakota.com

July 8-12, 2010 MoKan Music & Camping Festival

Pleasant Hill, MO: MoKan Campgrounds

 Info: 3 days, 2 stages, over 40 acts. * Main Stage Camping or Beside Car Camping * Open Jam on the 2nd Stage * Late Night DJ Sets * Large Bonfires and Late Night Drum Circle * Hoop instruction with Ziggy the Hoop Dancer * Springfield Fire Worx Performance Troupe * The STL Hoop Club

Artists: Somasphere (2 nights) Dirtfoot The Floozies LFDC Funk (2 nights) Blue Martian Tribe Brothers Green EZ Brothers Brother Bagman Hundred Hand String Band Ben Hoppes 3 Son Green Sonic Sutra Mouth Heads of State MoJo Lotus Diamond Eyed Jack The Owl People Antumbra Reelfoot The Spacetones StoneDeph Salad Bar Jam Farley Wauhfuls And The Electric Wardrobe Extravaganza The Fabulous Bolt Ons Kan Eyed Z.A.P. Jahration The Midland Band The Shotgun Brothers David Hasselhoff on Acid Voodoo Lounge Gypsies Mick Swayze DJ Plunkie Double Helix EchozAurora Miss Conception Z-Sonic JFortune NMEZEE DJ Sketch DJ Geeg Inflect David Fields

Festival Website: http://mokanfestival.com/

July 15-17, 2010, Moondance Jam, Walker, MN: Moondance Festival Grounds

Info: Moondance Jam is a rock & classic rock festival held annually on the Moondance Events festival grounds in the Leech Lake/Chippewa National Forest Area near Walker, Minnesota. Moondance Jam is Minnesota’s largest rock festival and is recognized as the premier classic rock festival in the United States with three days of national rock and classic rock bands on the main stage and two additional regional band stages. The event features a large outdoor concert area with open festival seating for general admission, 300 acres of groomed camping, well kept facilities, a variety of food and vendor stands, an air conditioned bar and grill with a backstage view and an acoustic stage, an indoor regional stage and seating area with a full bar, a shaded VIP area with access to stage box viewing, excellent security and EMS crews, an organized staff and more. The clean, safe and friendly atmosphere is a big reason why Moondance Jam has gone from being a party for a few thousand in 1992 to a rock ‘n’ roll and camping celebration that entertains tens of thousands of Jammers from all over the Midwest, the US and the world.

Artists: Lynyrd Skynyrd, Buckcherry, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Jonny Lang, Don Felder, Hoobastank, Collective Soul, Cinderella, Black Stone Cherry, Pat Travers, Blackberry Smoke plus 3 more bands to sign.

Festival Website: http://www.moondancejam.com

July 15-17, 2010  Country Roundup

Winfield, KS: Winfield Fairgrounds

Info: Country Roundup is a Three Day Country Music and Camping Festival held annually at the Winfield Fairgrounds in Winfield, KS. Country Roundup is recognized as one of the Premier Country Music and Camping Festivals in the Midwest with three days of National and Regional country artists playing on two different stages. The event features a large outdoor concert area with open festival seating for general admission, a VIP area, acres of groomed camping, well kept facilities, a variety of food, beverage and merchandise stands, excellent security and EMS crews, an organized staff and more. The clean, safe and family friendly atmosphere is a big reason why Country Roundup has gone from being a small party for a few thousand in 2005 to a Premier Country Music and Camping celebration that entertains tens of thousands of fans from all over the Midwest!

Artists: Dierks Bentley, Billy Currington, Chris Cagle, Randy Houser, Keith Anderson, LoCash Cowboys, Riverbilly, Hotel California, Joe Worrel Band, Logan Mize, Rachel Stacy, J. Morrison Band, Gregg Woodall Band.

 Festival Website: http://winfieldcountryroundup.com/

July 16-17, 2010, Camp Euforia, Lone Tree, IA: Camp Euforia

Info: Iowa’s Premier Independent Music Festival Hosted by Euforquestra A Cornfed Production

Artists: Euforquestra, EOTO, Kyle Hollingsworth, Public Property, Heatbox, Juno What!?, Chicago Afrobeat Project, Henhouse Prowlers, Lubriphonic, Mr. Babers Neighbors, Mountain Standard Time, Max Eubank, Dead Larry, Workshy, Dr. Z’s Experiment, Lick It Ticket ,The Grosso Family Band, Uniphonics

Festival Website: http://www.campeuforia.com

July 16-18, 2010  7th Annual Bogart Music Festival

Urich, MO: Cedar Hill Amphitheatre

Info: Two Days. 14 bands. One Hell of A Camping Trip! Weekend of Fun in a beautiful country setting! Great performances by regional and national Blues, Rockabilly, Swing, Blue Grass, & Zydeco bands. Volley Ball courts, horse shoes, playground. Family Friendly. 

Artists: John Nemeth, The Rumblejetts, The BelAirs, The Nace Brothers, Flannigan’s Right Hook, Ernest James Zydeco, Billy Ebeling & the Late for Dinner Band, Dan Bliss, Grand Marquis, Ben Morgan, Mark Montgomery & Many More!

Festival Website: http://www.cedarhillmusic.com

 July 16-18, 2010 Harmony Hills Music Festival

Viroqua, WI: S4048 County Road O

Info: Two nights private camping in beautiful rural Vernon County, Wisconsin. Several bands, food, bags and the renowned Soltua Flippy Cup. Also, a Saturday morning yoga session. Tickets are $30 for early bird purchases and $35 at the door.Tickets include two nights camping, music and an unforgettable time. Tickets are available by email, phone and pay pal account at www.harmonyhillsmusicfestival.com. Contact Justin at 608-606-3976 or justin@badaxeloghomes.com

Artists: Friday Night 5:00-6:30PM Kjome,7:00-9:00PM The Campaign, 9:30-2:30AM The Soapbox Project Saturday AM Yoga with Courtney Oftedahl, 12:30-2:00PM Honey Summer & Fall, 2:30-4:00PM The Korat Grey Band, 4:30-6:30PM The People Brothers Band, 7:00-9:00PM Elf Lettuce 9:30-12:30AM Mike Droho & The Compass Rose

 Festival Website: http://www.harmonyhillsmusicfestival.com/

 July 16-18, 2010  6 th Annual Grand Targhee Music Festival

Alta, WY: Grand Targhee Resort

Info: In it’s 6th year, the Targhee Music Festival offers up an eclectic gathering of premier performers on an intimate stage tucked into the shadows of the Tetons. The spectacular setting, accessible activities, convenient amenities and a casual vibe make the Targhee Music Festival one of the most unique and popular music festivals in the west.

Artists: moe,Los Lobos,Michael Franti & Spearhead,Grace Potter & The Nocturnals,Shawn Colvin,Steve Kimock Crazy Engine,David Lindley,Alejandro Escovedo

Festival Website: http://www.grandtarghee.com/summer/music-festivals/targhee-fest.php

July 17-18, 2010 2nd Annual Log Jam Music Festival 2010

Kansasville, WI: The Wildlife Refuge 

Info: The 2nd Annual Log Jam Music Festival “An Outdoor Festival with Music, Drinks, BBQ, Fire, Camping, and much more.” July 17th. 6pm $5 21+ At The Wildlife Refuge 3518 S. Beaumont Ave, Kansasville, WI 53139 Special Performances by: Asparagii Kelsey Montanez Jeff Palkoner DJ Ed of (Wisco Jazz) More Artists TBA Reverend Charlie’s BBQ -”Best You Ever Eat” Camping at the Richard Bong Recreational Area 5 min away. $12 a night for up to 6 people and 2 cars – make your reservations soon. Richard Bong State Recreational Area: 26313 Burlington Rd. Kansasville WI 53139 (262) 878-5600 Official Log Jam 2010 Webpage: http://asparagii.com/LOG-JAM-2010.html www.asparagii.com

Artists: Asparagii, Kelsey Montanez, Jeff Palkoner, DJ Ed of (Wisco Jazz),  More Artists TBA

 Festival Website: http://asparagii.com/LOG-JAM-2010.html

 July 22-25, 2010  SCHWAGSTOCK 44

Salem, MO: Camp Zoe 

Info: Camp Zoe is a 370 acre privately owned campground located in a valley of the Ozark Hills of southern central Missouri. Beaches, caves, bluffs, and swimmin’ holes line the spring-fed stream that runs through the middle of the campground. Zoe is a former youth camp that is surrounded by 90,000 acres of private timber reserves and national park property. This is the 13th season of Schwagstock festivals and the 18th year of The Schwag. Camp Zoe has hosted twenty-five Schwag festivals over the last five years with a cumulative attendance of over 120,000 people. There are five Schwag themed events in 2009. Schwagstock 37 in May of 2008 drew over 6500 people. Camp Zoe has a general store, a concession stand, a shower house with flush toilets, a bathroom house with flush toilets, 75 porta-jons, on-site septic service, ATM, payphone, 500 trash cans, 3 trash dumpsters, 4 miles of gravel roads, private security, 2 stages, power for vendors, and lots of shaded camping. You park where you camp and camp where you park. All camping space is first come, first serve – no reservations. There will be food & beverages for sale on-site. There are no bar-b-que pits available but you can bring your own. Gates open on Thursday, July 22 at 10 a.m.- there will be an extra $10 charge per person for early arrivals. DO NOT ARRIVE BEFORE JULY 22 BECAUSE THE GATES WILL BE CLOSED! There will be some live entertainment on Thursday evening for early arrivals – the pre-party. Please leave your pets at home or in a kennel – dogs will NOT be allowed in – NO EXCEPTIONS. There is plenty of room for RV’s and pop-up campers – no electric sites are available at this time. You will be issued a wristband upon arrival that you must wear throughout the weekend. You can drive in and out as much you like during the event but we suggest parking and staying parked. CANOE FLOAT TRIPS : Available on Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. The float is 11 miles on the Current River. You will float from “Pulltite” to “Round Spring”. A school bus will come to Zoe and pick up and return the floaters. Costs are $45 per canoe and include transportation, paddles, canoe rental, and life vest. Float trips are provided by area float operators and have permits, insurance, busses, boats, experienced staff, etc… Reservations are NOT needed for canoes at Zoe. Just show up at the bus stop and pay the bus driver. Watch the promo video:http://www.campzoe.com/images/zoe.mp4

Artists: FEATURING TWO NIGHTS OF THE GRATEFUL DEAD TRIBUTE BAND THE SCHWAG/DEAD AHEAD WITH TWO NIGHTS OF : MELVIN SEALS & JGB & THINK FLOYD NONSTOP REGGAE JAIK WILLIS ALLMAN BROTHERS TRIBUTE : MORGANTOWN PAPA SMILEY & THE BRAIN BANANAS DEADMAN FLATS KING LOUIS’ REVENGE & more to be announced…

Festival Website: http://www.campzoe.com

July 24, 2010  MAHA Music Festival

Omaha, NE: Downtown Omaha Riverfront

Info: Omaha is “somewhere in middle America,” as Counting Crows taught us. Turns out it’s also home to the MAHA Music Festival, a one-day event on July 24 headlined by Spoon and featuring the Faint, Superchunk and Old 97′s. MAHA — only in its second year — was started by local Omaha residents who wanted to bring a quality music event to the city. Featuring both local and national acts, MAHA will take place at the Lewis & Clark Landing in downtown Omaha. Check out the festival’s official site in coming weeks as they add on two more national bands.

Artists: Spoon, The Faint, Superchuck, Old 97′s

Festival Website: http://www.mahamusicfestival.com/

 July 29-August 1, 2010, Cosmic Railroad Family Gathering, Janesville, WI: Camp Rotamer

Info: This year we will be opening the venue on Thursday July 29, 2010 for anyone who wants to come early for the pre-party. Camp Rotamer is located at 5245 East Rotamer Road which is about 5 miles northeast of Janesville, Wisconsin. -Facilities include bathrooms, showers. -The camp is located on Spaulding Pond with a pier available for fishing. -There are canoes and life jackets for adults and children when supervised by adults. -SWIMMING IS NOT PERMITTED! -Camp Rotamer does not offer RV facilities or individual overnight campsites. -There is a large lawn area available for Frisbee and other games. There are also horse shoe pits for those who like to pitch. -There are nature trails for those that enjoy nature. -This is a leave no trace event…Keep it clean. If you bring it…take it with you. Individuals need to provide their own blankets, sheets, towels, and personal items.

Artists: Cosmic Railroad, The Heavy Pets, The Ragbirds, Groovatron, SLM, Jaik Willis, Day To Day and more….

Festival Website: http://www.cosmicrailroad.com/familygathering.htm

July 29-August 1, 2010, GRATEFUL GARCIA GATHERING, Black River Falls, WI: Camp NCN Venue (formerly Jamboree Campground)

Info: Return to where it all began over 7 years ago! Ecomomics is tough for all of us. The number ONE PRIORITY of the 3G’s Festival will be to KEEP TICKET PRICES THE LOWEST EVER so that you, and your family of friends can join us to enjoy this fun outdoor camping and music weekend! The venue features over 75 acres of brilliant surroundings with tall trees that nicely shades your camp site and has a full array of conveniences, including 2 shower facilities with flushing toilets and hot showers and other luxurious accommodations. Other venue amenities include a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, hiking trails, outdoor/indoor shower facility, full service concessions with food, and supplies!

CAMPING: Campers will be able to have campfires at each individual campsite and firewood is available for purchase at the campground! There will be plenty of awesome vendors on-site for you to check out, a kind and friendly atmosphere, and a stellar musical lineup for all to enjoy! As always, there is going to be a memorabilia “Jerry Garcia Shrine” near the main stage. All attendees are encouraged to bring pictures, candles, ticket stubs, tie-dyes, old posters with Jerry’s signature, any and all related items related to Jerry Garcia, or the Grateful Dead! You can place it at the shrine for all to enjoy! Mystix Toyz will be on board at the 3G’s Festival for tons of family fun with Juggling Demonstrations, Juggling Workshops, Hoops, Face Painting, plus Drum/Fire Jams, and so much more every night.

Artists: Melvin Seals of the Jerry Garcia Band w/ In the Dark & Elf Lettuce along with guitarist Josh Daniels of Jam and the Playground Kids, Family Groove Company, Boney Fingers, Lava Jama, One Man Gathers, Grateful Beth, Paradise Waits, JImmy Goodtimes Dead Guise, Ifdakar, Baghdad Scuba Review, Fungus Garden Reverb, Brokn Arrow, The Bar Tab Band, Wook, Grateful Gary as Emcee, The GGGang, LATE NIGHT w/ ABSOLUTE GRUV and THE GRASSHOPPERS, and more!

Festival Website: http://www.GratefulGarciaGathering.com

July 30-31, 2010   Mid West Music Fest

Winona, MN: Multiple

Info: The first annual Mid West Music Fest is scheduled to take place on JUL 30-31, 2010. The mission of the MWMF is to bring a quality community event to Winona, MN. MWMF will serve as a fundraiser for the Winona Fine Arts Commission and building a trike path at Winona Semcac Head Start. Winona is a strong community that embraces art and culture, we would like to build upon that foundation to produce a truly community event. MWMF will invite local, regional and national musicians to perform. We will also invite local and regional artists to display their artwork throughout the festival.

Artists: Too be announced…

Festival Website: http://www.midwestmusicfest.org/

July 31, 2010, Sawtooth Music Festival, Stanley, ID: Sawtooth Mountains

Info: Twelve hours of music set at the foot of the Sawtooth Mountains in beautiful Stanley, Idaho. Beer and craft vendors, fire show, stilt-walkers, and much more. Camping allowed on Saturday, July 31st only.

Artists: TBA

Festival Website: http://www.sawtoothmusicfestival.com

August 11-14, 2010   38th Kahoka Festival of Bluegrass Music

Kahoka, MO: Clark Co. Fairgrounds

Info: The great event of 38 years will once again be held at the Clark Co Fairgrounds just East of Kahoka on Bus. 136. Starting off on Tuesday with the traditional Carry-In Supper at 6:30 the concerts will begin on Wednesday at 5:00 with Goldwing Express. Shows will continue with afternoon and evening performances on Thursday through Saturday. Food – Vendors & Great Jamming! Come Early for a great parking place… Youth Talent Contest Saturday 12:00…no entry fee but registration required with appropriate ticket for Saturday…16 & under…paying 4 places with awards.

Artists: Goldwing Express, 2 shows on Wednesday only! Marty Raybon & Full Circle, David Davis & The Warrior River Boys, Gary Waldrep Band, Tommy Brown & County Line Bluegrass, Flying Feet Cloggers, Peterson Family, Men of the Week, Bull Harman & BullsEye, RedHead Express.

Festival Website: http://www.tsbafestivals.org

THIS FESTIVAL HAS BEEN POSTPONED UNTIL 2011 SO THAT THE FESTIVAL PARK CAN BE PREPARED—August 12-15, 2010, Come Unity Music and Fire Festival, Cushing, MN: Come Unity Park

Info: Community, Come unity, Come! Drums and fire from dusk till dawn, with bands Four days of incredible music and arts. During the drums and fire there will be many professional fire performances, including a competition to find out who’s the best of the Midwest!

Artists: DigitAlchemy, The Rez, The Infinite Flow, Dead Larry, Turn Back Now, Classical Chill, Nice Purse, Gina Citoli, Johnny Refferseed and the High Rollers, Johnny on Point, Thankful Dirt, Stalking Butlers, Hyentyte, Elf Lettuce, Dirty Darlings, Lunar Funk Theory, Useful Jenkins, Gypsy Lumberjacks, the Limns, Lunar Funk Theory, and many more

Festival Website: http://www.comeunityfest.com

August 13-15, 2010  UnderGround Sound 6 @ Zoe

Salem, MO: Camp Zoe 

Info: Last year we saw the evolution of UnderGround Sound creating a new realm of Electronic Music Festival. Thousands of us made the trek to Camp Zoe, many with no idea what to expect, and joined together to make for a weekend beyond all expectations. A decade ago it was common place for people to travel from far and wide to congregate for like minded enthusiasts for a weekend of fun. The experience of traveling and communing with those from other parts of the world, sharing experiences, and forging bonds of friendship to withstand time and distance has been long lost to many. We have worked hard ot keep this alive and have laid a great foundation for a new decade of music, friendship, fun and evolution. We have found a home at Zoe where we are loved and our artistic eccentricities are appreciated and encouraged. They are opening their arms to embrace us again as we prepare for the BIGGEST UnderGround Sound ever! Once again, we are releasing super discount tickets before line-up announcements for those loyal and dedicated early planners that have just been waiting for the date announcement to commit to another year of UGS. Initial talent announcements are scheduled for mid-late April.

Artists: andy b, angel alanis, Bodaleg, boom box, bro safari, Charles Feelgood, computer club, disco aliens, dubauchery, Dubauchery, eoto, Evol Live, excision, heyoka, ill.gates, Jackal and Hyde, Jen Z, Kevin Wilson, Kid Liquid, lynx & janover, menace to sobriety, Miss J, Nasty Nate, Noise Floor Crew, paul anthony, Rabbit in the Moon, rockin roland vs john doe, tekfro, TomFoolery, tommy ‘i.c.’ gunns,vibesquad, woody mcbride, zilla

Festival Website: http://www.campzoe.com/undergroundsound6.html

 August 13-15, 2010  23rd Annual Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival

Alta, WY: Grand Targhee Resort

Info: The “grandfather of Bluegrass Festivals in the northern Rockies,” the Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival features the country’s greatest bluegrass talent on our intimate outdoor stage. A-list instructors host a bluegrass camp preceeding the festival. Tent camping is available at Grand Targhee during the festival weekend. Music jams and contests round out this weekend of toe tapping fun and entertainment.

Artists: Bearfoot, Bela Fleck Edgar Meyer and Zakir Hussain,Brother Mule,Crooked Still,Danny Barnes,Fishing Music,Keller Williams and the Keels,Mike Marshall’s Big Trio,Mollie O’Brien and Rich Moore,Punch Brothers Featuring Chris Thile,Sam Bush Band,Sarah Jarosz

Festival Website: http://www.grandtarghee.com/summer/music-festivals/bluegrass-fest.php

August 28-29, 2010  Lou Fest

St. Louis, MO: Forest Park

Info: Lou Fest is a grassroots, 2-day sustainable music festival in St. Louis’ Forest Park. It will feature 18 bands from a range of genres– including rock, pop, folk, alt-country, and bluegrass. There are main acts each day along with the hottest established and emerging artist on the national and local scene. This all-ages event features 2 stages running back to back, food and drinks from area restaurants, a Kids Village, and an EcoZone to promote conservation, recycling, and clean energy.

Artists: * Broken Social Scene * Built to Spill * The Airborne Toxic Event * Lucero * Titus Andronicus * So Many Dynamos * The Northwoods * Stephanie’s Id * Broken Social Scene * Built to Spill * The Airborne Toxic Event * Lucero * Titus Andronicus * So Many Dynamos * The Northwoods * Stephanie’s Id * She & Him * Jeff Tweedy * Fruit Bats * Cory Chisel & The Wandering Sons * Alejandro Escovedo * Carolina Chocolate Drops * Gentleman Auction House * Kim Massie * Magnolia Summer

Festival Website: http://www.loufest.com/

In an effort to be of better service to our readers, Refrain Magazine will be posting summer touring schedules for some of our favorite bands in the region. Starting off this new service, we are presenting the summer tour schedule for Roster McCabe.  (You can also download live shows here: http://www.archive.org/details/RosterMcCabe)

Fri, July 2nd, 2010 Summerfest Milwaukee, WI 2 pm, 5:15 pm, 10 pm All Ages

Sat, July 3rd, 2010 Summerfest Milwaukee, WI 2 pm, 5:15 pm All Ages

Sun, July 4th, 2010 Riverfest, Riverside Park, La Crosse, WI 11 am, All Ages, $5-7

Sun, July 4th, 2010 Popcorn Tavern, La Crosse, WI 9 pm, 21+, $5

Wed, July 7th, 2010 Crosstown Lounge, Grand Forks, ND 10 pm, 21+, $5 and a free beer

Fri, July 9th, 2010 Great Aberdeen Pigout, Aberdeen, SD 7 pm, All Ages, With That One Guy

Sat, July 17th, 2010 Orpheum Theatre Madison, WI 8 pm, 18+, $10 Adv/$12 Door

With Shoeless Revolution

Wed, July 28th, 2010 House of Rock, Eau Claire, WI 8 pm, 21+, $6, With Chester Bay

Thu, July 29th, 2010 Waterfront Bar & Grill, Menomonie, WI, 10 pm, 21+, $3

Fri, July 30th, 2010 Aquarium, Fargo, ND 9 pm, Ages: 21+, $7

Sat, July 31st, 2010 The Rex Bar, Duluth, MN 9 pm, 21+, $5

Sat, August 7th, 2010 Club 57, Waseca, MN, 9 pm, 21+, Free

Mon, August 9th, 2010 Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis, WI,4 pm, All Ages

Tue, August 10th, 2010 Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis, WI, 4 pm, All Ages

Wed, August 11th, 2010 Wisconsin State Fai, West Allis, WI, 2 pm, 4 pm, All Ages

Thu, August 12th, 2010 Wisconsin State Fair, West Allis, WI, 3 pm, 5 pm, All Ages

Fri, August 13th, 2010 Kathy’s Pub, Rochester, MN, 9:30 pm, 21+, Free

Sat, August 14th, 2010 Dakota Jazz Club, Minneapolis, MN 10 pm, 18+, $5

Thu, August 19th, 2010 Prairie Grass Pre-Party, Outback Ranch, Houston, MN, 7 pm, All Ages, Tickets: See website: http://www.outbackranch.net

Fri, August 20th, 2010 Rock the Boat III, Harriet Island, Saint Paul, MN, 9 pm, 21+, $30

Fri, September 10th, 2010 High Noon Saloon, Madison, WI 9 pm, 18+, $6

Sat, September 11th, 2010 Harmony Park Clarks Grove, MN 1 pm

Pete Francis , who appeared last year at 10KLF, has launched his new site (www.petefrancis.com) and is offering fans the single “Glue” for free download. . Pete’s new album The Movie We Are In will be out 5/18.

After a music career rooted in independence and control with Dispatch and his solo releases, Pete decided to share the reins in making Movie with Sheryl Crow collaborator Jeff Trott as producer. “Glue” is a great example of  of the news sounds working with Jeff and other musicians including Brian LeBarton (Beck’s band leader).

Pete Francis launches the new site—www.petefrancis.com—for his upcoming release The Movie We Are In including the colorful cartoon album art. On his site, Pete offers fans the first single “Glue” as a free download, available here: http://petefrancis.bandcamp.com/track/glue.

New and risks are the key themes of this album. After a music career rooted in independence and control with Dispatch and his solo releases, Pete decided to share the reins in making Movie with Sheryl Crow collaborator Jeff Trott as producer. And with this new partner in the process, Pete explored different sounds with an all-new set of players including the inspirational Brian LeBarton (Beck’s band leader). The influence can be heard on stand out tracks like “Glue” and “Yellow Bird.” But not every track is a shift in sound, as Pete delivers soulful rockers “Love Shakes You Down” and “Good Man” as well. 

MYSPACE: http://www.myspace.com/petefrancis

After celebrating the end of their first decade together with a massive fan release, Railroad Earth Retrospective: 2001-2009, the tightly-woven unit of Railroad Earth is embarking on a new chapter in their musical journey. The rootsy Americana ensemble will hit the stage again on their first tour of 2010 with a new bass player, a new record deal (One Haven Music), and a new album in the can (to be released late Summer 2010) for what is expected to be a great year for the revitalized Railroad Earth. With Spring tour dates mostly focused on the Eastern Seaboard, fans can expect an newly energized live show with surprises around every bend.

After coming off a highly successful 2009, Railroad Earth is preparing for another year of sold-out theaters and large club performances. The band has built up some incredible steam over the past few years with highly notable performances on some of the most prestigious stages in the country, including; the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, CO, Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Rothbury, 10,000 Lakes Festival and many more.

Collectively, Railroad Earth wields an impressive arsenal of sounds, with each player bringing a variety of instruments and tones to the collective. The unique howl of an edgy rock-inflected violin, a fat-toned acoustic guitar with sounds bordering on a classic Gibson motif, wild fanning mandolin chording that has an almost piano-like attack, rolling or clawing banjo and dobro, and a slamming rhythm section driven by precise, rock-hard drumming and an aggressively, pumping upright bass. All of this delivered with surprisingly unique vocals, powerful harmonies and world-class songwriting.

To be more precise, Railroad Earth features songwriter/singer, Todd Sheaffer (Lead vocals, acoustic guitars), Tim Carbone (Violin, electric guitar, vocals), John Skehan (Mandolin, vocals), Andy Goessling (Acoustic guitars, banjo, dobro, mandolin, flute, pennywhistle, saxophones and vocals), Carey Harmon (Drums, hand percussion, vocals) and newcomer Andrew Altman (Upright bass), formerly of the Southeast band, The Codetalkers.

Railroad Earth’s unique sound is one that may be hard to categorize, but is also damn hard to shake! Each live performance is like a journey into the beating heart of American life, its heartaches and its triumphs. A true musical celebration, this is one tour that is not to be missed.

3/26/2010 Toad’s Place – New Haven, CT
3/27/2010 Spartan – Rutland, VT
4/9/2010 Mexicali Live – Teaneck, NJ
4/10/2010 Mexicali Live – Teaneck, NJ
4/23/2010 The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC
4/24/2010 Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
4/26/2010 Workplay Theatre – Birmingham, AL
4/27/2010 The Engine Room – Tallahassee, FL
4/29/2010 Tipitina’s French Quarter – New Orleans, LA
5/13/2010 Port City Music Hall – Portland, MA
5/14/2010 Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel – Providence, RH
5/15/2010 Bromberg’s Big Noise – Wilmington, DE
5/21/2010 Brown’s Island – Richmond, VI
5/22/2010 Cat’s Cradle – Carrboro, NC
5/23/2010 Visulite Theatre – Charlotte, NC
5/27/2010 Allegany County Fairgrounds – Cumberland Center, MA
5/30/2010 Three Sister’s – Chillicothe, IL

photo by Kevin Browning

Umphrey’s McGee will be launching their song “1348″ on the Rock Band Network this week. This marks the first release by the band in any video game, and the progressive-rock influenced music proves to be a great fit.

Umphreys McGee has been working with former Harmonix Music Systems employee and current Rock Band Network freelancer Andrew Buch. Buch is working on several songs for the program, including 1348 and Miss Tinkles Overture.” “1348″ is the first of these songs to be made available, with plans for others to follow shortly.

Buch, whose mind-numbingly difficult “Trippolette” is one the top-five best-selling launch songs on the Rock Band Network, has worked on several games in the Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchises and was a likely choice to prepare the music of Umphrey’s McGee for the game. Samples of his work can be found on his website www.andrewbuch.com, including video footage of both Umphrey’s McGee’s music and “Trippolette” running in-game.

“1348″ is scheduled to release on Wednesday or Thursday of this week, and will be available to be purchased in Rock Band 2 on the XBOX 360 via the newly implemented Rock Band Network Store. It will additionally be available to purchase via the XBOX Live Marketplace.

Some readers have expressed an interest in seeing the live music dates in a list. Instead of posting selected artist dates, here are them all, divided by local and regional. Look for more news and features on a few of these.

Live Events in Grand Forks ND/East Grand Forks MN:

Oct 7-10 Great Outdoors, Diamond Lounge, Grand Forks, 9:30pm

Oct 9-10 FIRE, Charlie Brown’s, Grand Forks, 9:30pm

Oct 9-10 S.O.L. Band, Long Haul Saloon, Grand Forks, 9:30pm

Oct 9 Zwarte, Big Daddy’s, Grand Forks, 9:30pm

Oct 9 Flying Blind Band, Southgate Lounge, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Oct 13 Irish Music, Whitey’s on the Boardwalk, East Grand Forks MN

Oct 14-17 FIRE, Diamond Lounge, Grand Forks ND, 9:30pm

Oct 15 Matt Strand Group, L’Bistro, Grand Forks ND, 8-11 pm

Oct 16-17 Identity 5, Long Haul, Grand Forks, 9:30 pm

Oct 16-17 Wiseguys, Southgate Lounge, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Oct 17 Art Show by Sarah Koop Heitkamp, music by Xavier Pastrano, Porpoura, Grand Forks, 1 pm

Oct 17 32 Below, Sensations, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Oct 17 Art & Wine Walk, Grand Forks, various locations,1-5 pm

Oct 21-24 Great Outdoors, Diamond, Grand Forks, 9:30 pm

Oct 23 Enchanted Ape, Crosstown Lounge, Grand Forks,10 pm

Oct 24 Kelly Richey, Empire, Grand Forks, 7:30 pm

Oct 24 Yukon Jack, Southgate Lounge, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Oct 27 Irish Music, Whitey’s on the Boardwalk, East Grand Forks MN

Oct 30 Roster McCabe, Crosstown Lounge, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Oct 31 Downtown Horns, Southgate Lounge, Grand Forks, 10 pm

Live Events Out of Town:

Oct 10 Anarbor w/Straylight Run, Lydia, Camera Can’t Lie, Aquarium, 5 pm All Ages

Oct 11 Ryan Montbleau Band, Aquarium, Fargo ND, 9:30 pm 21+

Oct 15 Hot Buttered Rum w/The Feelin’ Band, Cabooze, Minneapolis MN

Oct 16 Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome, Aquarium, Fargo ND, 10 pm

Oct 16 Rain Machine, 7th Street Entry, Minneapolis MN

Oct 16 Mumiy Troll, First Avenue, Minneapolis MN

Oct 17 Pert Near Sandstone with the Johnson Family Band, Aquarium, Fargo ND, 9 pm

Oct 17 John McCutcheon, Cedar Cultural Center, Minneapolis MN, 8 pm, $22 advance, $25 day of show

Oct 17 Hobo Nephews, Music Box Theatre, Minneapolis, 8 pm, $10

1411 Nicolet Ave. S.

Oct 18 The Hold Steady, Fargo Theatre, Fargo ND, 8 pm. All Ages

Oct 21 Keller Williams, Fargo Theatre, Fargo ND, 7:30 pm All Ages

Oct 21 Sovereign Sect (Keller Williams after show), Aquarium, Fargo ND, 10 pm, 21+

Oct 23 Lotus with The Egg, First Avenue, Minneapolis MN

Oct 26 Mae with Jenny Owen Youngs and Deas Vail, October 26, The Aquarium, Fargo ND, 5:30 pm

Oct 29 Roster McCabe, pre-Halloween party, Aquarium, Fargo ND, 9:30 pm, 21+

Oct 29 Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank, CD release for Traveling Show.Hotel Donaldson, Fargo ND

Oct 30 White Iron Band with The Legionnaires, Aquarium, Fargo ND, 9 pm, 21+

Oct 31 Loudon Wainwright III and Chris Smithers, Cedar Cultural Center, Minneapolis MN, 8 pm, $20 advance, $22 day of show

Oct 31 Taking Back Sunday with Anberlin, fun., and Gavin Castleton at Venue, Faro ND, 5:30, $25