Major Games

Major Games is a rock group out of Lawrence Kansas like no other rock group from Lawrence Kansas has been. Major Games presents beauty in many different ways, from extreme aggression to soft whispers. Their influences are many, and the make an incredible amalgam out of all of it. The variety of styles found in them is astounding, especially since they make it all sound so amazing all together.

The band consists of guitarist/vocalist Doug McKinny, bassist/vocalist Jeremy Sidener, and drummer Steve Squire. Steve Squire can drum with the best of them if their debut album titled Major Games is any indication. Both vocalists have excellent voices and convey their messages very well. Their debut album was released in April 2015 and is available on their BandCamp page, and their music is on Spotify. I have not seen them live but if the album is anything to go by, the experience would be like nothing I've ever experienced before. Which is high praise, let me assure you. You can catch them in Lawrence.

Band Camp: Major Games
Like them of Facebook: Major Games

How to Make It Big Podcast

Here I briefly discuss my top five tips on how to make it big in the local music scene.

The 785 Big Band

Based out of Topeka Kansas, the 785 Big Band is a, you guessed it, Jazz style big band made up of Washburn University Jazz Students and incredible local players from the area. If you like Jazz then this is the best band in the area for you. It was founded by Washburn Students Andrew Anderson and Cale Paquette in the summer of 2016. Their mission is to spread the sweet sounds of smooth jazz all over the Topeka area. Something we could use desperately.

From the Band's Facebook page

They're very new, but they're very good and you can see them at places like The Classic Bean and other cafe's around town. Featuring five saxophones (two tenor, two alto, one baritone), four trombones, five trumpets, and the best and tightest rhythms section I've ever heard. Their Facebook is young so there's not much to see but that's alright because these guys have nowhere to go but up. If you can catch them I would highly recommend it.

Like them on Facebook: 785 Big Band

The Ovaries-eez

This all girl trio from Lawrence came in to existence in 2012 and since then has graced the Lawrence area with their beautiful harmonies and ethereal folk tones. Founded by Amber Hansen and Johni Lacore, they were joined by Monica George in 2013. They are accompanied by an electric guitar only. They trade off guitar responsibilities but no matter who is playing, they all sing, and they always sound great. These ladies are amazing vocalists and their harmonies are well done and beautiful. Each one shares in the songwriting and performances. They write most of their own lyrics, but on their debut album, Lawrence poet Nicholas Ward writes many of the lyrics.

Photo by Fally Afani

As mentioned, they have an album released on Band Camp called, "I Saw You in My Dreams." it's really great certainly worth the $5 for the digital version. $10 for a physical CD which I would also strongly consider getting. They don't have any shows coming up but if you go like them on Facebook, I'm sure you'll hear about it there first.

Facebook: The Ovaries-eez

Local Venue Topeka Map

Just the same as the Lawrence map, except this map is for Topeka. There will be a short description of the venue and its address. Here we go.

1. Live Music Institute: Located at 5224 SW 17th St. The Live Music institute is the place to go for really everything musical. They offer private lessons, rehearsal rooms for bands, an instrument shop and much more. Bands can rent out the main room to preform shows for a reasonable price. I have seen the Cozies there twice, and the Kansas City band The Greeting Committee at this venue. It's a great place to see great, young, Topeka bands.

2.  The Celtic Fox: Located at 118 SW 8th Ave. The Celtic Fox is an Irish pub with really excellent food and a great local scene for all kinds of music. They hold open mic nights some nights, and other times they have scheduled bands come in. Bands like Smith & Liston frequent this venue.

3. The Classic Bean: Located at 2125 SW Fairlawn Rd. and 722 S Kansas Ave. The Classic Bean is a local chain of coffee restaurants and also a great place to see local blues, jazz, acoustic, bluegrass, folk, and Celtic music. Usually shows are on Friday and Saturdays.

4. The Boobie Trap: Located at 1417 SW 6th Ave. The Boobie Trap, often just referred to as "The Trap" is a bar where local rock bands go to be very loud and very rowdy. The venue is outfitted with pool tables and pinball so while you wait for your favorite band you can do something fun.

5. Kansas Expocentre: Located at 1 Expocentre Drive, which has to be the least helpful address ever. It's right past 17th and Topeka Blvd. on Topeka Blvd. The Expocentre is a place where many things go on. Hockey games, exhibitions monster truck rallies, and the like. But every once in a while there are band performances. Not usually any small local bands, but it is a local venue for music. So it gets a spot on the list.

Varma Cross

Varma Cross hurls themselves out of the gate at 100 MPH on most of their tracks and stays there comfortably. Their guitars and bass are kicking and driving as the drums play cruise control and keep it all together. Their whole sound is a call back to the alternative rock and grunge bands from the '90s. The vocals sound like My Chemical Romance, and that's a good thing for sure. Varma Cross is one of the best alt-punk bands that I've heard in the last few years. It's really great to have them so close too.

Varma Cross has also gotten into the recent trend of releasing EP's and albums on cassette as well as CD and digital downloads. Those can be found on their label's Band Camp page. They have a show coming up on December 18th, 2016 at the Riot Room in Kansas City. It would certainly be worth the trip up to KC!

Facebook: Varma Cross

Sona

Founded in lovely Lawrence, Kansas this trio of "shoegaze" rockers are the product of husband and wife, Brian, and Jenna Goodman, plus their drummer, Bobby Reeves. Their sound is very reminiscent of Sonic Youth, calling up the best memories of Sonic Youth's "EVOL," and "Daydream Nation." Drifting, and mysterious soundscapes that are held together by solid drums and excellent musicianship. Brian Goodman's guitar is floaty and mystifying, with smooth lines and lingering tones that never get in the way. His vocals are very fitting to the shoegaze feel and spacey sound of the band. Jenna Goodman's bass is driving and an incredible foundation for the rest of the band. The best bass players add so much to the feel and go totally unnoticed. It's clear that J. Goodman is vital to the band. Bobby Reeve's drumming is solid and just as important to the foundation as J.Goodman's bass.

The band recently released a five song EP on Band Camp, with 30 minutes of music for $4. Which is a steal if we're talking about music of this quality. The link to that is below. Also there is a link to their Facebook page. The band is performing in Lawrence on December 2nd at the Replay Lounge if you decide you need something to do that night.
Facebook: Sona

Psychic Heat

Putting on their best King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, Lawrence's very own Psychic Heat turn up the Lo-Fi goodness of fuzz guitars and psychedelia and produce some of the best new rock I've heard in recent memory. They released their first EP, Lighter and Brighter, in 2015, and a full-length album, titled, Sunshower, in 2016.

The band was founded by Vocalist and guitarist, J. Evan Heard, and multi-instrumentalist Tanner Spreer. On their latest release Sam Boatright plays bass, and Ricky Barkosky is on drums. Their combined talents really show on Sunshower, which is available for purchase on vinyl, cassette, CD, and digital download on their Band Camp page. It's a crunch filled mix of psychedelia and garage band punk. The soundscapes that emerge from the instruments is mysterious and fun. Definitely one of my highest recommendations. Below is a link to Psychic Heat's Facebook and Band Camp page.

Facebook: Psychic Heat

Local Venue Lawrence Map

This map contains the best music venues in Lawrence. There will be a short description of each venue, and its address. Here they are in no particular order.

1. The Bottleneck: Located at 737 New Hampshire St. The Bottleneck has become a sort of historical landmark for Rock & Roll. The venue holds an open mic every Monday for local talent to showcase themselves. However they also can boast large acts like Foo Fighters, Ben Folds Five, and Sublime.

2. Jackpot Saloon: Located at 943 Massachusetts St. Part bar, part incredible music venue, this building boasts spacious crowd areas and a great stage for fan interaction. Acts here can really fill up the house with noise and make the building shake in a good way.

3. The Replay Lounge: Located at 946 Massachusetts St. The Replay Lounge is the showcase area for Replay Records, and other bands. It offers pinball, rock music, and food. It has a patio area for seating and listening as well.

4. The Granada: Located at 1020 Massachusetts St. The Granada really is a big venue where lots of large name bands go to preform, but they still have battle of the bands and showcase other bands. The venue is very focused on the music so there is a balcony for viewing, the floor, and a second level for standing.

5. Liberty Hall: Located at 644 Massachusetts St. Liberty Hall is an all around theater. They show movies, comedians, and many kinds of music performances. The chairs are removable, so the floor can also be standing room and there is a balcony for seating.

Something and the Whatevers

That's not a joke, this band is actually called "Something and the Whatevers." They come from Lawrence, Kansas with a unique brand of punk rock that they call "Theater Punk." They are definitely going for comedy music when you look at their lyrics. The band's sense of humor will get you cracking up while the music makes you want to jump around and maybe punch your best friend in the face. But in a fun way.

 The trio is made up of Ben Kraus, Quinton Cheney, and a man known only as Tiny G. I'm not sure who plays what instrument but my guess is that Tiny G plays keyboards and sing/shouts the main vocals, and Ben and Quinton both play guitar. In march 2014 the band released a full-length album called "We Sold Our Souls For Wicked Lulz," it's on sale on their BandCamp Page. They also have a Facebook.

Smith and Liston

Smith and Liston are a Soul and Rhythm & Blues group originating from Topeka, Kansas. The two people in their name refer to the two founding members. Ellie Smith, whose vocals soar and float above the backing, and David Liston, whose performance on the drum set is as beautiful as his mustache. They are also joined by guitarist Dan Mauer, whose guitar lines blend perfectly and beautifully.

From the Band's Website. Photo by Scott Storman

The band is a frequent performance around the Topeka/Lawrence area. So it's not difficult to find a show to go see. The band is a lot of fun live as well. Their chemistry is amazing. You can tell that everyone on stage is a friend and it really helps bring you as an audience member into the performance. They frequent the Celtic Fox at 118 8th St. in Topeka, and many other local venues.

The band is really good about getting their name out so I have links to their Facebook, Soundcloud, Bandcamp, and their own website.

Facebook: Smith & Liston
BandCamp: Where you can purchase their album and other merchandise.
Smith & Liston Website

The Cozies

This group, sadly, is not a group anymore. But their music is still online, and these people still exists so they're still a band to me.

The Cozies were students from Washburn Rural High School. Wyatt Cobb, the singer and keyboard player, Alex Frank, the lead guitar player, Jacob Steiner, bass player, and Jared Barnes, the drummer. They split up after they all went to college, since they all ended up at different colleges. But there's still hope, they still keep in touch and express interest in getting the band back together.

Their sound is very indie rock, infused with blues, and psychedelia. Imagine Cage the Elephant with a blues twinge. Alex Frank's guitar cranks and forces out sound in an electric barrage. Jared Barnes' drumming is on point and always grooves. Jacob Steiner's bass is smooth and flawless. Wyatt Cobb's voice is smokey and his fingers float on the keys, when they appear. They released two EP's while they were together, I will link them at the bottom.

Despite the fact that these guys aren't together anymore, I still really enjoy their music and there is no reason you shouldn't either. If they happen to get back together anytime soon, you'll hear it here first!

Kangaroo Ali

What's up guys? If you didn't make it to the Kangaroo Ali concert last weekend then I feel bad for you all because it was really really really good. Kangaroo Ali plays with a passion I've never seen before in these local groups. It really was something special. If you missed them this time, worry not! For they have a show coming up on October 28th at Quintons in Topeka, KS. It's a halloween show so be sure to dress up!

Now,in case you don't recall, this show was a release for their new EP. It's titled Ungloved and it's free! Everyone likes free music! I'll link to it at the bottom. Their sound is new rock and roll mixed with 70's funk rock, like Led Zepplin or The Grateful Dead. The band consists of drummer Nico Williams, bassist Matt Elton, Ryan McGowan and Brett Branam on guitar, and finally vocalist Jeffery Hix. They are definitely worth a listen and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

From the band's Facebook

Something Exciting Coming Up!

Hey all! This post is going to be a little different. I'm working on a post that is going to be spotlighting a local band that is having a release party for their new EP on Friday, September 30th. This show would be awesome to go to is you are at all interested in local music. Kangaroo Ali is from Topeka Kansas, made of mostly Washburn students, and they kick butt! The show is at 7:00 PM on September 30th. It's at B&B Backyard in North Topeka. It's five dollars to get in and the first 100 people that show up get a free wrist band. They're releasing their new EP online for free and it would be great to see as many people as possible there for them.

I'm going to link to their SoundCloud here, and throw in a YouTube video of an interview from them recently. I hope I'll see many of you at the show!

SoundCloud

The New Blues

This group of teenagers from Washburn Rural High School exploded onto the scene last year and have been tearing it up since their inception. Their sound is very similar to Cage The Elephant, but with more punk rock and heavy guitars. Singer/Guitarist Jake Cook belts his lyrics with the sincerity of Kurt Cobain, and slams his guitar with the energy of Jack White (high compliments, as far as I'm concerned). Bassist David Lowry lays down the rhythm smooth and with a high amount of groove. Percussionist Bennett Smith holds everything together with a solid beat and some tasteful drumming. Keyboardist Ethan Stanley is the icing on top with his strong chords and backing rhythms.

Though they don't have a large set of releases (only one, actually), I'm excited to hear more from them soon though. I hope that they keep it up. They don't have much on the calendar either but i'm hoping to see more soon.

Here's a link to their FaceBook and BandCamp:
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/thenewbluespage/

Shadow Rabbits

Originating as a songwriting collaboration between singer/songwriter Ashley Dattola and instrumentalist and filmmaker Jon Ulasien. Their sound is very laid back and soulful. If people still made black and white films un-ironically, then Shadow Rabbits could do the soundtrack and win all of the awards. Ever. Ashley Dattola's singing is dark and reminds one of a lounge singer in the 50's or 60's. The instrumentation is mysterious and suspenseful.

The live performance of these songs add musicians Keenan Stump on bass, Bo McCall on guitar, and Ryan Whitehouse on drums. As a whole they have an appropriately shoe-gazer attitude. Lots of swaying and standing in one place. Which adds an entire layer of mystery to their sound.

They released an EP in late 2015 entitled Truest Blue. You can buy it on their BandCamp page, or at any of their live shows.

The Westerners

This four piece band originated in the Kansas City/Lawrence area and, through the release of their EP (link at the bottom) have gained some serious popularity in the Midwest. The EP showcases their manic style. Driving guitars and flying drum patterns are abound. It's filled with youthful energy and the lyrics capture an insane amount of wit and cynicism. This energy is always extended into their live shows.

Live, the Westerners bring a stage presence that you might only expect out of a stadium performance. They are not afraid to get loud and even with a little amount of room to run around, there will still be some running around. They have an amazing performance and you should not miss them, should you get the chance to see them live.

Welcome to the Cause!

Hello all you people! Do you like music? Do you like local music? If you said yes to either, then you are in the right place my friends. This blog is going to be dedicated to local music acts in the Kansas City/Lawrence/Topeka area. I love music. I am a musician myself. In this blog I am going to be highlighting some local groups and giving you the rundown on who they are and what their music is like.

My name is Will Hartner and I have lived in Topeka Kansas for my whole life. I started playing music when I was in the fourth grade. Since then I have been developing my talents and writing my own music as well. I really love seeing bands live and some of the best bands I've seen have been local groups. Local music is really important because the people in those bands get to realize their dream and have a lot of fun doing. It's incredibly important to show them support and help them. As a result I feel this blog is really necessary to get people involved in their local music scene and to help great bands get discovered.

I can't wait to get this started and begin sharing awesome music with you guys! See you soon!