Author: Kristen

Pepper’s Ghost Countdown: 7 Weeks!

Posted on by Kristen

I’m more than a little excited to tell you that my first favorite band (you know, the one that got me into…well every other band I’ve ever fallen in love with) is playing a reunion show January 22nd at The Grape Room in Philadelphia.

Pepper’s Ghost is a rocky/poppy/Beatles-esque band from Philadelphia, PA. The group centers around two brothers, Anthony and Michael Montesano, who share in the singing, specializing in catchy choruses and hypnotic harmonizing. Joining Anthony and Michael is Zil (Pawnshop Roses) on drums, Dave Hartley (War on Drugs, Nightlands) on bass, and Rob Bennett (Automatic Fire) on everything else (keys, guitar, mandolin, saw).

They released their first album, Opening Night, back in 2001. This recording was taken from a live show at The Trocadero and features a horn section and back up choir.  This was followed by an EP in 2002 (Bang) which offers one of my favorite, but rarely performed Pepper’s Ghost songs “Addiction.” In 2005, the band released their record label debut, Shake the Hand that Shook the World. This CD is full of fun poppy sing-along friendly tunes, including my college anthem, “Friday Night in Philadelphia.”

Shake the Hand that Shook the World got Pepper’s Ghost their first big national tour. It also got the band a number one hit on the singles chart in Canada with “You’re In My Heart (Little Pretty).” In the aftermath of this release, the band seemed to take a turn to an edgier, more rockin’ sound exemplified in their 2006 The Vet EP with songs like “Dirty Bomb” and “4 Letter Friend”. The following year they released their most recent CD, Let The Players Have the Ball. This CD was also a live recording featuring some old favorites, a few new tunes, and even a Bowie cover (“Cracked Actor”).

And now you know a tiny bit more about my favorite band. Only 7 weeks until I get to see them again. Let’s get excited!

~ Kristen

for last week’s countdown post

Scarlet Grey “The Sky & I” Video

Posted on by Kristen

It’s done! The video Amanda and I had the pleasure of working on with Scarlet Grey was released today! I am so proud to have been involved in this project. I think the final product looks amazing! Major props to it’s director (and editor), Baley Wynn, and everyone else involved.

Come celebrate with us Thursday night at The Troubadour. Music provided by Your Arsenal, Assemble the Skyline, Killola, and, of course, Scarlet Grey!  

Watch, enjoy, and especially appreciate the shot a little over a minute and a half in of the slowly sinking sugar cube…not easy folks, not.easy.

~ Kristen

Kristen’s Concert Calendar: 11/29-12/6

Posted on by Kristen

I hope everyone had a fantastic holiday weekend. I spent most of mine working. I had one musical interlude Friday night when I ventured to the El Rey to see Dawes. They provided a fun and much needed break. Seeing that I’m going into this week a bit on the exhausted and overworked side, it will be a difficult one, BUT it is the last week I have to teach so after this week, my load should lighten up a bit. Fortunately or unfortunately (depending on how much available time you have), there are quite a few exciting shows this week. I’m especially looking forward to the Scarlet Grey music video premiere event on Thursday (although I hear the video will be up Tuesday…stay tuned).

SO many great options this week. Here are mine:

Monday: John Elliot, Sally Jaye, and The Rescues at The Hotel Cafe…The Rescues are starting their winter residency. Don’t miss it! (7,8,9:30)
ALSO: Chasing Kings FREE at Silverlake Lounge (11pm)
ALSO: Paris Carney and Songwriters in the Round at Room 5 (8,9)
ALSO: Rocco Deluca and Belleruche at Bardot…free with RSVP http://www.itsaschoolnight.com/  

Tuesday: The Frames at The Avalon (7pm)
ALSO: Street Drum Corps at The Roxy (10pm)
ALSO: Kitten at The Echo (9pm) 

Weds: Eve 6 at The Troubadour (9pm)

Thursday: Scarlet Grey and Killola at The Troubadour (9:30,10:30)
ALSO: Everest at The Echo (9pm) 

Friday: Queen Caveat and Killola at The Roxy (8pm)
ALSO: Holly Conlan, Ry Cumming, and Brother Sal at The Hotel Cafe (9,11,12)
ALSO: Ernie Halter at The Troubadour (10pm)
ALSO: Brendan Bensen at Club Nokia (8pm) 

Saturday: Joe Firstman at Saint Rocke (11pm) 

Sunday: Joe Firstman at The Hotel Cafe (10pm)
ALSO: Meiko, Joey Ryan and Kenneth Pattengale at Saint Rocke (8pm)
ALSO: The Howls and Mississippi Man at Bootleg Theater (9,11) 

 

 

To Keep in Mind: 

December 11th: The Black Crowes and Truth & Salvage Co. at Hollywood Palladium
December 14th: After Midnight Project at The Key Club
December 17th-18th: The Hotel Cafe Christmas Party
January 22nd: Guster at The Music Box
Feb 9th: Tina Dico at The Troubadour
Feb 16th: Nicole Atkins at The Troubadour 

~ Kristen

Pepper’s Ghost Countdown: 8 weeks!

Posted on by Kristen

go here and scroll down to January 22nd. Two words have never made me happier.

It’s been nearly 4 years since I’ve seen my favorite band take the stage. This little reunion show may not be exactly like the old days (Pawnshop Roses’ bassist Mike Walsh is rumored to be subbing in for David Hartley), but just the idea of hearing old favorites like “All I Know” be performed once again, makes me giddy with anticipation. Of course I will be there. In Philadelphia.  It won’t just be a reunion for the band. I’m hoping all the old Pepper’s Ghost family shows up to celebrate. If you are one of them (or even if you’re not), mark  your calendar now! Janurary 22nd. The Grape Room. ‘Cause you know, “it’s better when you’re here.”

~ Kristen

p.s. This video brings back SO many memories…FYI it was shot at my favorite venue (RIP The Point)

p.p.s. look forward to weekly reminders of this, one of the most anticipated events of my year.