I’ve never been much of a fan of local bands. Week after week, my friends and I would attend shows in various sleazy Deep Ellum clubs and dive bars in hopes of finding something good — better than good, really — that could keep our attention pas the first few notes and keep us from drowning the uninspiring music in appalling bar tabs.
I learned quickly that Dallas’ best bands were to be found in other areas, with rare performances that keep the fans waiting. Bands such as the pAper chAse, [Daryl] and The Deathray Davies have built quite a following here and in the rest of the country.
For those of you with less time (and money) to waste than I once did, Saturday is a rare opportunity to see some of DFW’s most outstanding musical ensembles sharing one stage at Dallas’ newly renovated Granada Theatre.
Pleasant Grove, one of Dallas’ most respected and critically acclaimed bands, co-fronted by Bret Egner and Marcus Stripli, is opening Saturday night — which should give everyone an idea of the direction the night will take. Pleasant Grove’s serene sound could be described as Coldplay with a country twist, and is a perfect contrast to new-comers’ The Hourly Radio’s upbeat sound. The Hourly Radio’s front man, Aaron Closson oozes cuteness and charisma and is sure to captivate the audience at the Granada before Dallas favorite Radiant* hits the stage.
Daniel Hopkins, drummer for Radiant*, admits he is more than a little excited about Saturday’s lineup:
“It’s the best local lineup in a long time. Out of all the bands in Dallas, Pleasant Grove and Midlake are our best friends, it’s going to be a lot of fun. There was a period of time, about two years ago when Midlake, Eisley and us [Radiant] were playing together all the time — it was kind of a family thing, so it’s great to play with them again and see them become successful.”
Of course, Midlake, who just got picked up to play this year’s ultra-exclusive Coachella festival, will please the crowds with its brand of lo-fi indie rock. Its performances are complete with background video shows and wistful melodies.
Who: Pleasant Grove, The Hourly Radio, Radiant*, Midlake
When: Saturday, Feb. 19
Where: The Granada Theatre