After hearing their names bandied about for years, I was finally able to catch The Felice Brothers - at the Happy Dog of all places! Alright! This group is definitely a party band, and quite appropriate for the Happy Dog / Cleveland crowd this night - they were a blast!
Ran across this great video of Tri-C students discussing what prevents people from engaging in art, focusing on the Gordon Square Arts District. One specific student focused on the Happy Dog, learning a few things I didn’t know!
Here’s an important article you should be reading. This is regarding what I believe is one of Cleveland’s greatest assets - the small, independent music club.
"Venues like the Happy Dog pay the same taxes as large ones, like Quicken Loans Arena, but receive none of the help from taxpayers, who subsidize construction at The Q. They do all of the cultural heavy lifting of a nonprofit without any of the foundational support, or the public helping-hand offered through Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. They organically drive foot traffic, tourism, intellectual expansion and development.
For that beat to get louder, the venues need a stronger backing track.
Watterson believes another study would give advocates hard data to approach policymakers. It worked in 2013. After the Remix study was released, a coalition of music figures used the findings to lobby the city of Cleveland to lower the admissions tax from 8 percent of ticket sales to 4 percent for venues with capacities of less than 750 people.
The effort was a success. But the reduced rate is still problematic for small clubs, which pay more here than in any other large city in Ohio. Columbus imposes no tax at all. Cincinnati clubs pay 3 percent, the rate for most Ohio cities. Over the past five years, the Happy Dog paid $25,000 in music licensing fees just to host bands, and another $10,000 in admissions taxes. To a small venue, that’s the difference between scraping by and prospering.
Or in Barber’s case, the difference between paying your Saturday night act and replacing the Beachland’s worn, storm-damaged roof.
‘We might be guaranteeing [a band] $5,000 but only get $3,000 at the door,’ Barber says. ‘We’re still paying 4 percent of that $3,000 even though we lost money.’
Everyone else, meanwhile, gets extra help. Admissions tax revenue is paying for part of the renovations at Quicken Loans Arena. The city keeps 3 percent of The Q’s admissions tax payment while the other 5 percent goes to pay off existing Gateway loans, Cleveland.com reports. The nonprofits get double benefits too. They pay no property and sales taxes, and no admissions tax.
Why shouldn’t small clubs get similar assistance? With the vast value they provide to the community, one could even make a convincing case for zeroing their admissions tax rate out altogether."
(Via Why We Need To Support Cleveland's Grassroots Music Venues.)
This was a random arrival night at the Happy Dog, on a Thursday after visiting with a friend who had to work on Friday, but I didn’t. I was pleasantly surprised with Cleveland’s own Cory Grinder band rocking out some honkey tonk - and how could you not with that beaming smile of his. These guys just looked to be loving what they’re doing, and how can you fault that. Keep it going guys!
Cate Le Bon wasn’t one of those artists I immediately connected with on first listen, but I was quick to realize that the more I listened the more I was hooked. I would have totally thought she’d play the Beachland Ballroom on her way through town, but we were treated to an intimate performance at the Happy Dog! This show was everything I was hoping it would be.
It’d been a slow start to 2016 for shows, but this was the one I’d been waiting for. After a somewhat disappointing venue experience at Lava Lounge, I couldn’t be happier to have him be playing at The Happy Dog. Well, I could have been happier if it weren’t on a Monday night - but whatever. I’ll take some Ezra Furman any chance I get. He was his usual self, balancing this sense of confidence and discomfort. It’s like he’s almost uncomfortable being on stage, which goes away the moment the music starts. He’s one of the most intelligent and authentic artists I’m following these days… These guys are just amazing.
I had a hard decision to make this evening. The Grog Shop was hosting the Heartless Bastards (LOVE her voice!), but the Happy Dog ended up winning my attendance with their dual headliner (in my mind) with Calvin Love and Jacco Gardner. Sure, I’ve seen Jacco before, but he was worth seeing again - and Calvin’s hazy pop/dance sound is intriguing - and has really grown on me. I was glad Calvin was up first, because the Happy Dog is notoriously late with their shows. Calvin was dapper and had a nice groove to him… Check him out:
By the time Jacco was taking the stage (1am??), the night was over for me. I stayed long enough to catch some shots - but would have loved for this to be earlier for me to catch more of his show.
It’s been some time since I’ve seen Jacco Gardner, and I missed him the last time he was at the Happy Dog. This time, he’s coming with Calvin Love who I’ve also been enjoying. Check these guys out and stop in!
Calvin Love!
Only once with every blue moon comes an artist that seems so familiar yet out of space as Calvin Love. On Super Future, his first album for Arts & Crafts, the young charmer from Edmonton, Alberta, steeps songs of psychedelic wisdom in celestial sensuality. Calvin Love arrives an enigma, a strutting, crooning contradiction: as menacing as he is magnetic, like sex and murder wrapped together in a trench coat. With coolness that defies contrivance, Love links sounds and images of science-fiction vintage with an auspicious version of the future. The music drips with crystal aura, blending obsession with the beauty of artifice and the inner systems of real and natural things. It's this infallible match of the authentic to the inventive that make Calvin Love's Super Future so strange and inviting.
Finally!! …and very exciting.
Here is a superb piece on The Happy Dog opening up the venerable Euclid Tavern - and the importance that Derek Hess had on it’s history, both of the venue and the city’s music scene. I love how his art was central to the venue’s success.
The Euclid Tavern Reopens; Artist Derek Hess:
"Lovers of hot dogs and good music rejoice! Sean Watterson, the owner of the Happy Dog in the Gordon Square Arts District of Cleveland, is bringing his popular combination of food and entertainment to a shuttered University Circle hot-spot the Euclid Tavern. ‘The Euc,’ was once the spot for blues and rock and roll in the region, attracting musicians Chrissie Hynde, Mr. Stress, Robert Lockwood, Jr., Joan Jett, and in 1987, Michael J. Fox in the film, ‘Light of Day.’ We sit down with the man who’s out to bring the ‘Euc’ back."
It’s the album release show for our very own Herzog, for their new release entitled Boys. Check out a track below, as well as a review by Cellar Door Cleveland. Looking forward to seeing these guys rock out again, and finally getting back to the Happy Dog. Stop on out!
» Album Review: Boys by Herzog
"Boys, the third and most recent album by Cleveland rockers Herzog, is one of the best guitar rock albums in recent years.
There, that’s the one-sentence summary that I’ve been saying to everyone I’ve engaged in conversation with about Herzog or the Cleveland music scene in general within the last couple of months. It needs to be said, flat-out, no frills, first. Maybe the glasses are rose-tinted, because they’re our new hometown heroes and we can’t help but want to cheer them on, but I am convinced that this ranks among the best of the best among bands creating hooky, thoughtful, energetic guitar rock today."
(Continued... » Album Review: Boys by Herzog)
The last show for the year was seeing Roger Hoover & the Hurt at the Happy Dog - and I can’t imagine a better way to finish off the year. I would consider Roger Hoover as one of the first local performers that I fell in love with (his music I mean). Though I’d have no problem swooning for his raspy, earthy voice. And he’s just an all-around great guy, who still remembers me after all these years. Oh, and I was thrilled to see the Happy Dog was packed for him!
Show is not until 9pm - and there are two openers - so tonight won’t be for the faint of heart… But if you’re willing to stay up this late on a Sunday night, it will totally be worth your time. Here’s a new video…
Here’s a clip from the last time I saw him…
What are the chances that I see Gauntlet Hair again while family is visiting from out of town. So yet again, focus was really on conversation & catching up than the music - but it was still a great night. I do have to admit that Blisse opening the show really caught my attention. Strong vocals, spirited performance. Good stuff - definitely want to catch her again.
I'm hoping someday I catch these guys and really just focus on them… otherwise, they're great background music!
I'll admit, Eternal Summers haven't been on my short-list of must listen music lately, but the more I listened to their newest album, Correct Behavior, the more I liked them (again). I got there in time to catch a few songs of Chomp, which includes some of the guys from Cloud Nothings. Good stuff, as you'd expect.
By this time, I was regretting having already eaten dinner (those dogs looked so good). I settled for another pint of Laguinitas IPA and settled in for a great Eternal Summers set (and the volume in the venue was manageable!). They definitely had an alternative 80's throwback sound in their live set, though this wasn't the best clip to capture…
Here's a better song to judge them by:
It's a big night for live music in Cleveland tomorrow night. Details from irockcleveland.com and cleveland.com down below. More details here: https://www.facebook.com/CleveMusicClubCoalition
I Rock Cleveland | Indie Rock, College Rock, Alt Rock, Modern Rock, Cleveland Rock, and Rock
"Still, the issue is far from settled, and that’s why ten of the member clubs in The Cleveland Music Club Coalition have banded together to host an event they are calling Defend Music Night. Taking place this Friday, Defend Music Night will not only give you the opportunity to rock out at venues like The Happy Dog, Beachland, Brother’s Lounge, and Now That’s Class, but also give you the knowledge needed to become a part of the cause.
Defend Music Night: Friday, February 10th:
Beachland: Outlaws I&I, We the People, GS Harper
Brothers Lounge: Reese Daily, Justin Gorski
Garage Bar: Restless Habs, Drunken Bishops
Happy Dog: Herzog, Bill Fox
The Harp: Brent Kirby
Now That’s Class: Woolen Kits, Puffy Areolas, Smooth Brain
Prosperity Social Club: Martini Five-O
Peabody’s: Tenafly Vipers, Not So Good Ol’ Boys, Jason Charles Miller, Scattered Heart
Roc Bar: Patrenzo, Kennedy & Keilyn, Veeno, Treazon, Dasanto, Soul Kryziz, Zup
Rockstar: Snipez, JMO"(Continued... I Rock Cleveland | Indie Rock, College Rock, Alt Rock, Modern Rock, Cleveland Rock, and Rock)
Cleveland music clubs rally against city tax | cleveland.com
"We want to put the spotlight on the threat that the admissions tax poses to local clubs and the musicians," said Sean Watterson, owner of the West Side's Happy Dog. "We want more venues to open. It allows creative musicians to play here instead of moving to New York or Nashville or Chicago or Los Angeles."
(Continued... Cleveland music clubs rally against city tax | cleveland.com)
Caveman was another last-minute discovery, and another show at the Happy Dog. Though I was hoping that the sunnier, pop/electronic aesthetic would play better at the Happy Dog. It did, but I have to admit that since that show, I like these guys even more - and now I'm even MORE excited for their return at the Beachland Tavern (Wednesday, March 21st). Check out some photos - and then a clip from my favorite song of theirs, Thankful.
Now download a copy of it for yourself for free.
I'm about to start the grueling process of catching up on some shows that I've seen, but not written about. The sad thing is that I'm reaching all the way back to late November here - though things were quite slow through the holiday, which means I've probably been behind by more shows at previous times (just my own self-pacification).
So the last Herzog album has been winning me over. To see they had a new album coming out, and that the CD release show would be at the Happy Dog was thrilling. However, some happy-hour drinks and a really late show at the Happy Dog left for not much of an attention span (not to mention the on-going, excessively loud sound issues) - so not much to wax poetic about this show. I did grab some pics though...
Though not to do Herzog a complete disservice, you should listen to a new track "Fuck This Year" over at thenoiseis.net. Here's the rest of the pics...
| www.flickr.com |
What a little break that was… The holidays aren't the best time for live music or new releases, but this week is bringing it back in style - starting tomorrow. DOM will be performing at the Happy Dog. They are "hazy cosmic jive" group from Massachusetts, on Astralwerks, and hailing from Massachusetts. This isn't my first time going to a pop show at the Happy Dog, which you wouldn't normally equate as a pop venue (at least I haven't yet). But it turns out to be a pretty good one...
This single got me so excited to see them live… I hope they bring the same shenanigans. Check 'em out and see why it's so sexy living in America.
Gossip Culture is back, opening this show as well.
Reposted from the original Spangle article here.
It's hard to imagine a better month in this city than June. As you can see by the slew of shows and festivals below, there is plenty going on. First let's recognize the non-typical venues for June's featured events, a definite change of pace. Then take note of the busiest Saturday of the year (June 25th). The ability is to hit multiple events in a single day is one of my favorite aspects of this city. You should see how many you can hit. Finally, you have a couple more road-trip chances this month to see the amazing Robyn in concert. Don't miss her.
June 13 :: Lovers (Pop) / loversarelovers.com (MySpace)
Wilberts / Pay What You Want
Have you had that experience when you first hear a song and you know instantly that you love it, as well as the band who produced it? That's how I felt when I first saw the video below, which I found through JD Sampson (of Le Tigre and MEN). These ladies had me at the first note and I've since fallen in love with their entire Dark Light album. It's seriously superb. What doesn't quite fit is that they'll be performing at Wilberts of all places. This could be a huge bonus.
June 25 :: Summer Solstice Party (World / Dance / DJ) / clevelandart.org
Cleveland Museum of Art / $15 ~ $175
This has been one of the best parties of the year in Cleveland for the last 3 years. I expect nothing different this year. This year I'm noticing there are no real big-name performers, but instead a nice blend of ecclectic music. The afro-latin sounds of Sofrito, the boogie funk sound of Dam-Funk, and the circus punk sound of a marching band with Mucca Pazza, and that's all with the $15 ticket starting after 10pm!
June 2 :: Charlene Kaye (Pop) / charlenekaye.com (MySpace)
Beachland Tavern / $5
Corissa Bragg is opening, who is a new local favorite. Charlene's jazzy pop would be worth staying for.
June 3 :: Yourself & the Air (Pop/Rock) / myspace.com/yourselfandtheair
Beachland Tavern / $7
This group of young up-and-coming Chicagoans have a good thing going. Check out Sick Days.
June 4 :: Grace Potter & the Nocuturnals (Rock) / gracepotter.com (MySpace)
House of Blues / $25 ~ $35
Catch Grace and crew, and her infectious bluesy rock, on their way to a headlining stop at Bonnaroo.
June 7 :: Dodos (Pop/Rock) / dodosmusic.net (MySpace)
Grog Shop / $10 ~ $12
These indie San Francisco folk rockers are finally hitting the Grog Shop. Opening is Gauntlet Hair, who should also be great!
June 8 :: Ray LaMontagne (Folk / Acoustic) / raylamontagne.com (MySpace)
Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica / $42.50 ~ $62.50
I couldn't think of a better summer concert to have out at Nautica than Ray. Brandi Carlile is opening.
June 8 :: Nicole Atkins & The Black Sea (Folk / Rock) / nicoleatkins.com (MySpace)
Beachland Tavern / $10
A powerful female voice that will definitely fill the Tavern. The great (and local) Rebekah Jean is opening.
June 9 :: Yvette (Experimental / Rock) / yvetteyvetteyvette.com (MySpace)
Now That's Class / FREE
Being billed as more forceful, hard-edged version of Animal Collective and HEALTH. I'm intrigued.
June 10 - 12 :: Weapons of Mass Creation Festival / wmcfest.com
Happy Dog / $5 per Day
A great, upcoming Art, Design & Music Festival in Cleveland. Great pre-show on Friday th 10th feat. David Dondero!
June 10 :: Elizabeth Cook (Country) / elizabeth-cook.com (MySpace)
Beachland Tavern / $12
With live shows drawing comparisons to Dolly Parton, that is all the convincing I need.
June 11 :: Neon Indian (Electronic / Pop) / neonindian.com (MySpace)
Grog Shop / $12 ~ $14
What first drew me to this show was another chance to see the amazing Oberhofer, though Neon Indian is quite intriguing too.
June 14 :: The Cave Singers (Folk / Rock) / thecavesingers.com (MySpace)
Grog Shop / $8 ~ $10
A folk group made up of members of other bands who are not folk music performers. A great dynamic.
June 14 :: GLEE: Live on Stage (Musical) / fox.com/glee
Quicken Loans Arena / $52.50 ~ $92.50
If you want to go the exact opposite of The Cave Singers, go get your GLEE on.
June 15 :: Shivering Timbers (Folk) / shiveringtimbersmusic.com (MySpace)
MOCA / Free (Members) or $5 (Non Members)
Experience Akron's Shivering Timbers during MOCA's "Secret Garden" GAL-ery Night!
June 16 :: Art Brut (Rock) / artbrut.org.uk (MySpace)
Beachland Ballroom / $12
Much talked about British post-punk rockers with a new album, produced by Frank Black.
June 16 :: Rubblebucket (Roots/Afro-Beat) / rubblebucket.com (MySpace)
Beachland Tavern / $12
These guys are becoming a Beachland favorite. Details on their last performance are here.
June 16 :: Janis Ian (Folk) / janisian.com (MySpace)
Cain Park / $18 ~ $23
This 70's folk legend performing at the beautiful Cain Park. Her stories under the night sky will charm you.
June 23 :: Corissa Bragg (Singer/Songwriter) / myspace.com/corissabragg
House Concert / $10
This is the second house concert hosted by The Zender Agenda!! The first was amazing, I'm expecting the same for this one.
June 24 :: My Gold Mask (Pop / Rock) / mygoldmask.com (MySpace)
Beachland Tavern / $7
A dense pop / electronic performance from this Chicago duo. I have a great feeling about this show.
June 25 :: Cleveland Pride (Festival) / clevelandpride.org
Voinivich Park / Donation
I'll admit I'm not typically a fan of the music at our Pride Festival (this year seems no different), but I'll still list it.
June 25 :: Larchmere Porchfest (Festival) / niceredshorts.com/porchfest (MySpace)
Larchmere Neighborhood / FREE
If Pride's not your thing, check out these 30 performers on 30 porches!
June 25 :: Waterloo Arts Fest (Festival) / waterlooartsfest.com
Waterloo Neighborhood / FREE
No word yet on perormances at the Festival, but the Beachland has a great afterparty of local acts (Cloud Nothings, Filmstrip, etc.)
June 28 :: Joe Purdy (Folk / Rock) / joepurdy.com (MySpace)
Beachland Ballroom / $15 ~ $17
A successful self-releasing artist who's acoustic folk sound is spectacular.
June 28 :: Mishka (Pop / Reggae) / mishka.com (MySpace)
Grog Shop / $12 ~ $14
A perfect summer soundtrack, this pop-infused reggae sound is superb.
June 4 & 5 :: Robyn (Pop / Dance) / robyn.com (MySpace)
4th / Royal Oak Music Theater (Royal Oak) / $20
5th / LC Pavilion (Columbus) / $15
omg. omg. omg. She's back in the area. If you missed her the first time around, get in your car, now.
June 11 :: Okkervil River (Rock) / okkervilriver.com (MySpace)
Newport Music Hall (Columbus) / $17
Okkervil River is touring with both Titus Andronicus and Future Islands, which should make this a must-see show.
June 25 :: Junior Boys (Electronic / Pop) / juniorboys.net (MySpace)
The Crofoot (Pontiac) / $12 ~ $14
This electronic duo finally has a new album out and this is unfortunately their closest stop.
