I need help finding local jam bands.

[Jade]

I just moved here from N.B. I'm a huge Jimmy swift, Grand theft bus and Divine Hiest. Moving up here has left me dissipointed, I need some info on westcoast jam bands. And is there anything like evolve down here? Thanks

[StoneMtn]

I have no idea what Evolve is, but click here for info on a mind-blowing festival coming to the West (Bonfire Festival) .

As far as some good local bands:

1. Themasses (funky / jammy / with some electronic sound)

2. Slow Nerve Action (not technically a "jamband" but amazing funk called "porn funk")

3. Roots Roundup (ska/punky/reggae - playing this weekend Friday and Saturday at the Fairview in Vancouver)

4. Wassabi Collective (from Nelson, and you probably already know them)

5. She Stole My Beer (originally a Dead/Little Feat cover band, pretty good but not mindblowing, technically broken up but pop up for reunion shows now and then

6. Slammin' Jack (good local jamband)

I'm sure I've missed some important, good local talent, and if I think of it I'll post more, but keep your ears open for all of the above. Also, and most importantly, regularly check www.upstreamentertainment.com, both the Message Board and the upcoming shows. That is where you will really stay informed about local bands as well as anyone worthwhile coming to town.

Welcome to the West, Jade.

SM

EDIT, ADDITIONAL BANDS:

There's another jamband that used to be good from Vancouver Island, called "Lift". I haven't heard of them in a few years, though.

As well, there's a band from the Sea to Sky Corridor called "Dark Star". (Not D.S.O., of course.) I've never seen them, and they don't play often, but are supposed to be a really talented band that does Dead covers, other covers, and some originals.

One more band apparently worth checking out is Duran Duran Duran. They play some Tenacious D and other good covers, and I think original tunes as well. (Same lead vocalist as Slow Nerve Action.)

Edited May 10, 2005 by Guest

[weezy]

Lift is no longer - some members went on to form Stephen Franke and NFTT

BLUE QUARTER now lives in Vancouver - they rule.

Definately don't miss Bonfire, it's worth the 12 hour or so drive from Edmonchuk.

I see you moved to Edmonton... that would explain it. There's often good shows at the Sidetrack Cafe - keep an eye on their calendar. Other than that - perhaps you want to consider the odd trip down to Canmore (sometimes Calgary too) where great bands play all the time.