Note: Yes, I realize this is a little late, and I apologize for that, but what can you do when the site goes down? However, all five participants this night were way too talented not to mention, so rather than forget about posting, I figured I’d still post something about it. So without further ado, here is your Week 7 rundown:
In the world of artists around the Indy Music Scene, there are some that do it electric; there are some that do it with stunning visuals; and there are those who strip it down to music’s bare bones to create an atmosphere more electric than anything EOTO could do at The Vogue later that night.
Which now brings us to Week 7.
We’re six weeks in and 12 artists have already punched their ticket to the semi-finals. While they sit back and await their next challengers, it’s time to do it all again. The format? Eh, you already know it all by heart now: five artists enter, three judges critique them, your winner is decided by a combination of fan and judge votes (weighted 60/40 respectively). Who among these five has what it takes to win a shot at glory and prizes varying from cash to photo shoots and even spots on this summer’s Slamology and Mojostock? Let’s find out. Time to take a spot at the judging table alongside my two less-awkward and more talkative colleagues (Danielle Look, Branch Gordon) and see what Week 7 has to offer.
Up first, we have Derek Hulsey, a solo artist who warned me beforehand he had been battling illness leading up to tonight. My job requires me to be objective (and less socially awkward, but that’s another story), but I’d understand if projection and annunciation were some of his issues.
To my surprise, there was no problem with that.
His lyrics were clear; his performance brought up thoughts of those nights spent at the coffee shop listening to someone else’s unplugged set; and including a slide guitar and a harmonica was a nice touch. While impressive, I couldn’t help but notice that maybe his calm demeanor while performing was about the opposite when having to talk in between songs. Whether maybe this was an off night or just nerves, I’ll probably never know. For what it’s worth, he was the first up and seemed to handle a crowd not really there to see him very well. All in all, a nice start the evening.
We don’t have to wait long to hear our next act. Mike West takes the stage next. For some reason, I couldn’t help but pick out some kind of 90s alternative hint in some of his songs (maybe it was that sort of grit in his voice). I always enjoy seeing someone get into their songs, but like many, this could also be to a bit of a fault. I’m nitpicking here, but it seemed like maybe he was pulling away from the mic a little too much and it was like he was rushing through his set. That last one I’ll chalk up to time constraints (and he’s not the only one to struggle with this over the course of this contest). Overall, an enjoyable set, if maybe a bit rushed. I’ll have to see what this guy can really do in another setting sometime.
There’s no shortage of solo artists on this week’s bill, but for our next act, he decided to bring along a few friends (and no, this has nothing to do with his loyal fan base he brought with him to the place). That being said, let’s welcome Joe Sherfick. Joining him on stage was a backing bassist and drummer.
For this decision to including a backing band, this was a great move on his part. It added a whole new dynamic to the music that hadn’t been heard too many times during this contest (plus, that drummer was pretty impressive too). I will admit to thinking I was losing it for a second during his set with his harmonized vocals when there wasn’t another microphone or person singing around for miles. It wasn’t until later I noticed his effects pedal. I feel stupid now, but at least I know. Uh, let’s move on now, shall we? As enjoyable as his set was, there seemed to be only two gears for Sherfick: extreme high or extreme low. That being said, maybe he was guilty of letting off too much or just putting the pedal to the metal, but that’s pretty normal to get too into your music. As he concludes, there’s a new energy in the room that had been lacking all night. Judging by that (and the cheers coming from his fans), I’d say we have a new front-runner.
However, we’re only half-way through. So before we prematurely anoint this week’s winner, let’s move on.
Time to stray away from the male solo artists who comprise the majority of this week’s bill and move into the realm of a female duo. To be more specific, Jess & Amy. Before I delve into rating their performance, I have to make note of one thing:
The fans.
They’re loyal, they can enhance a concert experience, and they can even be a little loud (even to the extent of screaming in my ear, but hey, this is what I signed up for. I’ll deal). To those who do show up each week to express your undying support, I commend you.
And with that being said, Jess & Amy have no shortage of supporters in attendance. They scream, they cheer, they even clap along to some of their songs. Musicians are nothing without their fans (especially in a contest like this where their votes largely determine who moves on).
Now back to the performance.
Chemistry is always important as a duo, and these two play off each other perfectly. Jess’ soulful vocal style meshed perfectly with Amy’s infectious percussive energy. Sure, they’re not the first female duo, and they’re certainly not the last, but as far as duos go, they’re simply one of the best.
It’s been another great night, and we’re STILL not done yet. There’s been no shortage of talent tonight, and for a proper ending, we need someone who can bring another kind of energy, enthusiasm, and the kind of playing style to match the lights in the room.
So let’s welcome Jason Wells to the stage. Hailing all the way from Frankfort, this was a guy who didn’t look travel weary at all. Already a veteran of the ALC, he knows of the kind of confidence and presence to display. His energy was energetic, his enthusiasm was infectious, and his vocal style was among one of the most unique of the evening (you usually don’t hear that kind of growl unless you steal my iPod and immediately head for Metallica). Like some of our participants tonight, he also knows he isn’t playing to a brick wall. He talks to the crowd to let us know we’re here and even engages in a clap-along. In short, a fitting closing to a night that has featured some amazing talent from around the local scene.
Five bands down, now it’s time for the fun to begin. Fans now have to submit their votes and I now have to remember how distribute my points to our five contestants. It’s been a great night, and I once again send my thanks to Rob Snodgrass for once again putting on another amazing night of music. While seeing all five move on would be nice, that’s not possible. As I now turn my attention to see who’s on the clock in the NFL Draft, Rob takes the stage to announce the results (of course my favorite team is on the clock when he takes the stage, but I can always find out later I guess).
Moving on to the May 19 semis? Here’s your Week 7 results:
1.) Jess & Amy (640, a new record for this year’s contest)
2.) Joe Sherfick (534)
3.) Derek Hulsey (297)
4.) Mike West (266)
5.) Jason Wells (230)
And just like that, another night is in the books. As congratulations and pleasantries are exchanged amongst each other, some head for the door. As I prepare to do the same, a thought occurs to me: Round 2 is officially upon us (again, this was posted late, but there was nothing I could do about technical problems over the past week). Indeed, the end is near (but don’t worry, I won’t wear a sandwich board and shout at you on the streets of Indianapolis outside the IndyConcerts.com office). So join us now, won’t you? Round 2 kicks off next Thursday night from The Ugly Monkey. The ALC Sweet Sixteen has been chosen, and of course, their fate is largely dependent on you. So until next time, I’ll leave you with the age-old question:
“Whose side are you on?”
See you all next week.