My first stop this time was at Gullifty’s to see Ledbetter Heights. They are definitely doing a great job at bringing you their  very own, original form, of modern rock. Their drummer is a crazy lunatic. His cymbals were so high in the air, I couldn’t believe he could hit them, but he sure knew what he was doing. Ledbetter Heights are getting ready to release a new CD, which I’m sure is eagerly awaited by their fans. All in all it was another great original band performance in the Harrisburg area.

   The Programaddicts actually played first, but I unfortunately missed that set. Jamison was nice enough to give me a free CD so I could check him out. I’m pretty sure he’s a one man band, but I don’t know for sure. His CD was phenomenal. He plays a different type of techno/rock that I definitely haven’t heard before. I know he plays a guitar, and a couple keyboards. I’m sure it would’ve been a very fascinating show to catch, hopefully I’ll be able to check out him and his uniqueness soon!

   Next up was a short trip down the road to Doc Holidays West to see Stomp’d. When we arrived Amy Jo was sitting playing the keyboard with Willy G on guitar playing an acoustic set. I was at first in shock, but then I was amazed at the different sound these two can produce. They played an original called “The Rain Song” that was really beautiful. Look for Stomp’d to be filling in with a lot more original tunes when Amy Jo returns from her maternity leave. Congrats to Amy Jo and Willy G to the new addition to their family Savannah Sky, was born on July 4th 2007. I’m sure she’s going to be an all-American rocker just like her Mommy and Daddy.

   After their acoustic set, Harlequin, got back up there to start up with their full set of rock music. They also had some guitar help from Max the Duck-walking maniac. I’ve written about him once before with the Luv Gods, but he fills in every chance he gets at Doc’s. Max was there with his own guitar this time, ready to amaze the audience. I hope he continues to push forward with his musical career, he’s going to be doing amazing things in the future. The Red Velvet Girls will be focusing back on their own band after Amy Jo returns. Stomp’d has again changed their line-up with a new bass player, but I’m sure it won’t slow them down, they’ll just keep on rockin!!

   The next weekend Hair Force One headed back to town for their debuting night at Tubby’s in Duncannon. They had some missing band members due to last minute emergencies, but Shane from Leadfoot stepped up to help the guys out and there was just a void where Roman Fyngerz was supposed to be. Even with their altered band, Hair Force One still pulled off an excellent show. The crowd loved them and they loved the crowd. HF1 loved the sound and lights that Tubby’s provides, plus the nice stage, and the big room...they really had a fun night. Tubby’s has a great dance floor, that we were all taking advantage of. One thing about Hair Force One is that they immediately make you feel like family, so it’s so easy to let loose and have a good time. I’m so glad they are hangin’ out in the Harrisburg area a lot more, these guys really know how to spice up your night.

   Next up was a Thursday night run out to West Shore Hardware Bar to see Shoot the Moon. They finally made it into my area, so I jumped at the chance to check them out. I’ve heard so many great things about them, it was fun to see that all the great things were actually true. I got there before their set, and right away just from their fun-loving personalities, I knew it was going to be a great night. Sean might be a little guy, but man that guy can sing. He’s all over the stage, making sure everyone is having a great time. Of course James is the newest member of the band. It was his birthday at midnight, so I’m assuming he was a little goofier than usual, if that’s possible. Tom is also the maniac of the crew, I actually caught pics of him a couple times with his feet off the ground, that tells ya’ how crazy he is! Then there  is John, the drummer. It’s hard to keep him in his seat. He ended a couple songs standing up to get the extra sound out of those cymbals. He was pretty excited, because he has a new drum set on the way. I don’t know how musicians do it with getting new equipment all the time. I know I’d be absolutely shocked to know everything that happens behind the scenes, just so crazy people like me can have some entertainment. Shoot the Moon is actually creeping down this way more and more, so make sure and check out their schedule to see where they are playing next.

   Over the 4th of July I headed downtown to the All-American Music Fest. There were so many stages, and so many bands, it was very over whelming, not to mention all the delicious food. It was more of a family day, so I didn’t really focus on the bands (shame on me), but one band I couldn’t help but check out was Herbie. We were heading down by the river to escape the crowd when I heard their sound. It blew me away, so I stopped the family for a little Harrisburg local treat. These guys really play some awesome original songs. I don’t know where they are playing next, but I will definitely be finding out soon.

   Next up was a trip back up the mountain to see Scream, and Shade Mt. Inn’s Fireworks display. The guys of Scream told me it was worth the trip, but I never expected such an amazing fireworks experience. The fireworks were literally set off above your head, I could actually feel pieces of the cardboard casings falling on me, it was a little freaky, but totally exciting. After the show we headed inside for some “explosive” metal from Scream. I know I’ve written about these guys too much, but some people just connect, and I love these guys. Their 80’s metal is just so amazing to me. I actually, also drove out to Lake Raystown, to hear them on a night cruise on the Proud Mary. What an experience! If you ever get the chance to go there and play as a band, or just go as a fan, do it! It was a gorgeous night and the outdoor wide-open sound on top of such a big boat, was definitely the most amazing time I’ve had listening to a band so far. The smokey clubs get a little old after a while, so it was nice for the refreshing change.

   This month I had the pleasure of checking out a new venue with new bands. The new venue was the Frog’s Hollow Tavern out 72 close to Lebanon. The bands were Stonehenge and Psyfon. Bob is the new owner at Frog’s Hollow and he just started putting bands in there. You can see the full schedule in this issue, just look for the “big frog.” Stonehenge was all new to me except one guy, Jason Betz, from the AmyK Band. Jason was actually on bass, taking a break from the drums. I only caught a couple songs of Stonehenge but they are definitely bringing “rock” back to the bar. You can tell these guys were just laying back letting everyone enjoy their night. Psyfon was up next and they played a lot of the same kind of basic rock that Stonehenge played, but eventually Psyfon is hoping to break more out into their originals. All of us girls had a great time dancing and hanging out with the guys of Psyfon. The Frog’s Hollow is going to be a new great place to hang out. The best part is their bands are on Friday Nights! It’s hard to find a place with cover bands on a Friday.

   Next up was a wild, Wednesday night, with a trip to the Harrisburg Hardware Bar to see Knotfal. I’ve seen these guys on myspace, but it was about time I finally made it to a show. I was impressed by the crowd on a Wednesday night, sometimes you have to wonder if anyone works anymore. LOL! Knotfal really amazed me with their dance party rock. Roy could really belt out the songs, and he was nicely backed with great harmonies. There were even times when the lead position was switched up which is always a great asset in bands. They are mixed in the Hardware Bar rotation, so get ready to catch them soon at a Hardware Bar near you.

   Next up was my second longest trip to see a band... I traveled up to The Saloon in State College to see Echoburn. I missed their one trip into Harrisburg, so I headed up there for their cover feature interview. It’s always great interviewing a band because you find out so many interesting things, you would’ve never known before, some things you still wish you didn’t know. LOL! Check out their full story in this months cover feature. The Saloon was a cool place, it was down in the basement of a pizza shop, so if you are ever trying to find it, look for the pizza shop on the corner. They have these crazy drinks called I think, Monkey Bites, but I’m not sure. They are definitely popular. It’s actually a beer pitcher filled with flavored liquor. I might just have to get a hotel one night in State College. He he. They looked pretty tasty! Their drinks were all 50% off from 9-11pm, so that was a pretty good deal. Thanks Echoburn for being such great guys and supporting the Pennsylvania Musician magazine!

   Black Mountain Jack was up next on the marquee. They were actually on their third night of entertaining the crowds at the Winner’s Circle Saloon in Grantville. The Winner’s Circle is definitely the place to go for some good country. They also have a massive dance floor which allows plenty of space for country line dancing. Even though I can’t dance, I’m amazed watching people who can. One couple, Don and Joy, have been coming to the Winner’s Circle for 11 years, they always sit and the same table, and they always have a great time. Black Mountain Jack kept the dance floor boot scootin,’ one boot was actually a cast with a lady on crutches. Some songs don’t keep anyone in their seats, you just have to get up and dance. You can catch Black Mountain Jack, Sept. 1st at Tubby’s in Duncannon.

   I wasn’t quite done partying, so I decided to head in to catch the tail end of Emily’s Toybox. “Shakes-It” never saw them before so I had to give her the introduction to ETB. It was almost perfect timing because right after we got there “Momma Lovin” started. Heather’s face was priceless, but we both loved the crazy songs of ETB. The Hardware Bar was just packed in with fans, just waiting on edge, for Mike’s next comment or remark. You never know what’s going to come flying out of his mouth next. It’s definitely a different night of entertainment. The majority of the fans were guys, so the originals were flying due to requests for “Back of the Bus” and “Face Meets Sidewalk.” It must be surreal when the crowds are yelling out your original songs. Emily’s Toybox, recently acquired a new bass player, Greg Reigle, but he has been a friend of Mike’s for years, so they definitely know each others styles and Greg fits right in. He already jumps in and helps take the lead of some songs. Todd and Wade are up their usual craziness, Todd with his spikey hair, and Wade with his wild, rubber, chicken. That one always keeps me wondering.  Check out their full schedule on the back of this mag, and check them out soon!

   My last night of the month was a packed one. I met Green Eggs early on the streets of Harrisburg to take a couple shots of them to help introduce their newest member, guitar player, Matt Day. I unfortunately didn’t have time to stick around, but hopefully I’ll be checking out their newest member soon. My first performance of the night was Waysted Sylence at Johnny Joe’s in Mechanicsburg. These guys are from the Chambersburg area, and man do they know how to rock. If you like Judas Priest check these guys out for sure, you wont’ be disappointed. They even have the leather pants to help set the mood for their show. I love it when people get into “character.” You can tell they definitely love what they are doing, and they want to do everything they can to make sure you are having a great night. These guys were having some technical difficulties at the beginning of their show, but I could never tell. The band played on and they learned to adjust until they could get some wires switched around. They were even sweethearts and gave me a free t-shirt. I love wearing all my band shirts with pride. I’m getting quite the impressive wardrobe!

    After hanging with them for a set I headed up to Rumors in Enola to check out Witches in Bikinis. These ladies came down all the way from New York to perform for the crowd at Rumors. They are absolutely amazing! It’s like a real live Broadway Play. All together there are 6 “witches” that sing and dance, with only 3 instrument players backing them up. Check out my hot shots, the witches have color coordinating wigs and bikinis! Their show just amazed me. I had to buy their CD and get a T-Shirt at the end. Their one song called “Horror Flick Chic” had me laughing so hard I almost fell off my chair. They of course sang all original songs. Some other great ones were of course their theme song, “Witches in Bikinis” and “Subway Spooks.” I don’t know of any immediate plans for them to come back to PA, but it’s even worth a trip to NY to see these witches again! Check them out for yourself on You Tube.

   The closer of the night, and my month, was 7th Layer. These guys know how to put on a party till the very last possible second. For the last song of the night they did an encore performance of a crowd favorite, “Who Am I?” The sound guys turned it up as loud as they could and everyone got up dancing. The witches came back up on stage to dance along too. One thing I’ve always loved about 7th Layer is if you see them on the streets you always know who they are with their “make-up.” These guys know how to get noticed and draw attention to themselves. That’s a huge thing I don’t feel enough bands do, but I guess each person has to act cool in his or her own way. 7th Layer will be jammin’ through Harrisburg at a couple different venues, so check out their schedule and go find out who they are.