Pressurefest v2

I’m a little embarrassed to admit it, but I wasn't entirely clear on what PressureLife was - the sponsor of PressureFest.   After a review of their website, after some digging for clear details, I was able to see it’s a Cleveland-based alternative independent magazine.  Well, I need to catch up, because their PressureFest event this past Saturday was awesome!  This was (apparently) it’s second year and they took over the Phantasy entertainment complex (Phantasy Nightclub, Symposium Nightclub, and The Chamber), along with the Five O’Clock Lounge and The Foundry Concert Club.

I believe all local rock bands performed, with notable bands such as Herzog, Royal Beasts, This Moment in Black History, etc headlining.  There were also comedy performances, as well as drag performances throughout the event as well.  $20 got you full access to all venues.  We attended great concerts, heard some great comedy, and saw some amazing drag - and danced!  I couldn’t have asked for a better Cleveland-focused evening.   Bring on PressureFest v3!

Stepdad (4/28/13)

I've been following Stepdad since their first Ordinaire EP.  Their Wildlife Pop release I liked even more. Quirky, poppy, and from Michigan - I didn't think it could get any better.  Throw in a new (to me) venue, and I was sold on this show - despite it being a Sunday night.

Walking in I was instantly impressed with The Foundry - and was shocked that I had not been in this space before. Great layout and atmosphere.  

We caught Cleveland's own Pipe Dream opening, to which I was thinking (and someone even tweeted) that One Direction was in the house.  A gaggle of young, good looking young men on stage playing some emotional rock, ala Foster the People and the Shins.  meh.  They're just so young!

Stepdad was next.  We were instantly confronted with problem with this performance… the vocals.  As much as I enjoy Stepdad recorded, I realized that live… not so much.  Granted I think this was the last date of their tour, but come on boys.  It was rough…  Definitely some room for improvement, and if they get that down - they'll be a force on stage.