Underground Bands and Indie Music Reviews

American Fork, UT hosted 37 bands at an out door concert, Fork Fest on October 16th, 2010. Volunteers who recognized the value of the local music scene ran this event. Joshua James, up and coming folk musician organized much of the night. This event was free to the public. The volunteers simply wanted a way to share their love of music. Many of the artists that played are receiving national recognition. Needless to say, it ROCKED! Joshua James‘ style is American rock and folk, and his sound is compared to Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bright Eyes, and Ray LaMontagne. He drew the largest crowd at Fork Fest. He has a captivating stage presence. His original digital release of his cd The Sun is Always Brighter reached #1 on itunes folk album list in 2007. Paste Magazine noted Joshua James in an article, “Next 25 You Need to Know.” James was featured in Variety Magazine. They said he was, “A young Midwestern singer-songwriter who writes hard-bitten songs of family tragedies and sings them in a voice that’s as sun-bleached and wind-battered as a Nebraska cornfield.”

http://vimeo.com/10369859

Here is a track by the Ontario native indie rockers Rural Alberta Advantage.  Sometimes going by RAA, this trio group rocks the stage and your stereo every time! Take a listen and learn why they become my favorite band of last summer!

The Deathbridge In Lethbridge

RAA formed in 2005 but didn’t release their first full length until 2008. Hometowns was the name of that CD and remains to be their only full length to date.

Hometowns has songs written by Nils Edenloff who undoubtedly drew upon nostalgia of his home life and heart breaks. Edenloff has a distinct voice that makes the sound stand out but it’s Amy Cole, who sings backup vocals makes the band in my opinion.

Songs are built on a foundation of synthesizers, acoustic guitars, drums and sometimes viola with some occasional unique instrument mixed in there. The drums though, add to the unique sound of the band. Paul Banwatt has been playing drums for 17 years and it’s not secret. When you see him play live you can’t help but simply watch him.

I havn’t come up with a band that I can compare RAA to. I would venture to say if you like Arcade Fire, Bright Eyes and Neutral Milk Hotel, you will like Rural Alberta Advantage. Either way, I can’t recommend enough to check them out.