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The Werks Discuss 'Sonder', Future Releases, & Much More January 25, 2019 13:24

Words by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Over the last four years, Live & Listen has allowed me the opportunity to discover more new music than I could have ever imagined. Whether it's a newly established up-and-comer, or a band whose name I've heard for years, it's been an amazing experience. There are times where I've simply found myself in the right place at the right time, and that's exactly what happened on July 4th, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. 

The epic voyage to Chicago for The Grateful Dead's "Fare Thee Well" shows was ultimately a city-wide music festival. You had a countless number of bands performing both before and after the big shows at Soldier Field. Following the Saturday night show, I ventured over to The Chop Shop to finally catch my first taste of The Werks. I was absolutely floored and really haven't stopped digging into their catalog since. 

Here we are nearly four years later, and I've been fortunate enough to work with the band on a number of shows, attend the annual Werk Out Festival in Ohio, and watch the continued growth of an incredibly unique group. Upon hearing the band's latest release, Sonder, just last week, I had to reach out to get the low down. Check out the full conversation with Chris Houser (guitar), Jake Goldberg (bass), and Dan Shaw (keyboards) below and make sure to give Sonder a good listen as soon as possible.

Last week you guys released Sonder, the new three-song EP. It seems as if you guys are taking a new approach to releasing new music this year. How did the band come to this decision?

Chris: Across the board in 2018, streaming numbers went up drastically. The number of album sales did not. We're trying to keep up with the times, be honest with ourselves, and stay in tune with the way things are moving in an ever changing world. We want to make sure that the music we're putting out is being listened to.

If someone is even buying an album these days, they don't always make it to the end. They're usually off on something else by three songs in. We figure we would focus on putting out a digestible amount. Not to patronize our audience, or any audience, for that matter. Something that is more relatable with current times, and also spread out new releases throughout the year. We've had a lot of fun with it, and we're all really excited.

Jake: It definitely has a lot to do with the streaming platform, the way tracks are laid out, and the average span of your average listener. Like Houser said, working on multiple releases throughout the year, and almost having three different themes for three different songs. 

Did you guys knock out the material for each release in the same studio session?

Jake: For the most part, they were done in one chunk of time. We'll revisit some of them in the studio, but yes for the most part. 

Chris: We've found a studio that we're really comfortable with, and an engineer that we really look forward to seeing every time. It's a very comfortable place for us at this point. We plan on spending even more time in the studio during our off time, because we're constantly working on new music. Hopefully more of these releases will happen in the future. 

Let's talk a little bit about these three specific tracks. When I first listened, I noticed that each really represents the different elements of The Werks. "No Prisoner" has more of a classic, old school Werks instrumental feel to it. "Stars Collide" has a nice catchy vibe and really showcases Rob's vocals. "Flatiron" gives you a nice dose of that dark, "Werktronic" side of the band. 

Chris: Yeah...you nailed it!

Anything interesting you can tell me about this group of tracks?

Chris: Let's start off with "No Prisoners." That one is largely Dan's "deep brain" child. 

Deep brain? Oh man...

Dan: Yeah, I've always been attracted to the ways that rhythm guitar lines are actually lead lines in a lot of classic rock songs. I originally planned for the song to have lyrics, but as we were working on it, it evolved into an instrumental. The goal was to have something that's almost a cross between Led Zeppelin and Edgar Winter with some catchy rhythm guitar licks.

Love hearing that. 

Jake: In terms of these three songs, like you said, I think they capture different aspects of the band really well. In writing each of these songs, we wanted to be unapologetically ourselves. Let's not try to create something that we think is going to sell, as opposed to something that we actually want to listen to. I think that really comes through in the tracks, which is why we're enjoying it so much.

I'm sitting here looking at the definition of the word "Sonder" right now. Very cool. "The realization that each random passerby is living a life as viviid and complex of your own - populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries, and inherited craziness..." Where does that word / concept play into this release?

Jake: Honestly, we just wanted to expand people's vocabulary. Now people like yourself are looking that word up.

Mission accomplished.

Chris: It's a pretty amazing idea to be conscious of. 

Jake: I think that answer will become more prevalent as future tracks are released. The theme of "Sonder," as well as the music. One of the cool things about the staggered release is the anticipation that comes along with it. 

Agreed. That "Sonder" concept really plays into a mindset that I'm constantly trying to be conscious of. Everyone is on their own journey. You never know what's going on in someone else's life. Don't be quick to judge anyone, because we're all out here fighting the good fight every day. 

Jake: Absolutely. You see it all the time in life and music. 

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

You guys are in the midst of a 10-day run, and you'll be getting home just in time for Winter Werk Out?

Jake: That's right. Our big event of the winter. 

Tell me about how that expansion on the Werk Out is playing to your advantage and helping build on this culture which continues to grow each year. 

Chris: It's been great. It's fantastic for us because there's always a bit of lag or depression once The Werk Out is over. There are just those feels, man. It keeps the name and the brand coming out of people's mouths. Everyone is constantly talking about The Werk Out. We're out here on the road spreading the word once again. 

In the early years of The Werk Out, we talked about possibly doing something in the fall. It turns out that the first weekend of February was the right time to do it. Every six months we get to have a Werk Out, and that's a great thing for us. I think it's as long as people want to wait. 

That's a nice, healthy balance. A good Werk Out every six months keeps everyone in shape. 

Jake: It was really cool to bring it to a venue like The Bluestone. We haven't had much prior experience there, and I know most of our other bands haven't either. It just wasn't a venue that was used much in our scene. To be able to bring people to this beautiful room in the heart of Ohio is pretty special. 

For me personally, I've been on stage with The Werks at all three Winter Werk Outs. It holds a special place in my heart. Not that the summer Werk Out doesn't, it's been amazing to watch this event come to life and grow each year. People are really into it.

So how is the rest of the spring shaping up? How's the schedule looking?

Jake: We're going to be busy. We'll be touring through the southern belt and eventually getting down to Florida. 

Chris: We're always excited to get down south. We're doing a two-night run at Aisle 5 in Atlanta. We're also hitting the Carolinas, Knoxville, and Nashville. We're back on the horse and hitting the road strong, and we're having a lot of fun and doing our thing. I've kind of started telling everyone that we aren't out here to fuck around. (laughs)

Jake: We're out for blood, and we're taking no prisoners. 

Jake and Chris...I know you guys have had some major life developments in the past year. Tell me about how fatherhood has shaped you as a musician and human being. How has this next chapter of life played out thus far?

Chris: It has certainly made us harder workers. 

Jake: Yeah...it teaches you a lot of patience. It's really cool being able to share something as sacred as music with your offspring. It's crazy. I sit down in front of a piano with my daughter and play. Sometimes I'll be playing bass or guitar. She looks at me and smiles and it's just like...wow. She becomes more a part of my life, and music becomes more a part of my life. It just makes everything more important, you know? Music included.

Chris: I'm really looking forward to seeing Mark grow up. Having him realize that it's possible to follow his dreams. Make his dreams his goals, because that's what daddy's doing. We don't have a lavish lifestyle by any means. We earn an honest living, a modest living. Success is in the eye of the beholder, and I believe the same applies to happiness. I know that I'm very happy and grateful.

That's what it's all about. 

Chris: Yes it is. 

Before we wrap this up, I've gotta hear what Mr. Dan Shaw is fired up about this spring. Let's hear it, Dan.

Dan: Other than the finishing touches on the new material, I know we're out here now, but I really love traveling out west. Colorado is great, but even up north of here. There's a lot of wide open space.

Jake: Dan loves wide open spaces.

Chris: He loves The Dixie Chicks.

Jake: He loves hotel pools.

Who doesn't love hotel pools?

Dan: I love getting out and traveling the country. I also love the creative process in general. We have plenty of both ahead of us, so I'm pretty excited about that. 

Well you guys stay safe out on the road. Bring it back home in one piece for the Winter Werk Out, and we'll see you in Atlanta in just a few weeks.

Stream The Werks' Sonder via Spotify here:

 

1.25 Denver, CO w/ The Jauntee
1.26 Vail, CO
1.29 Minneapolis, MN
1.30 Milwaukee, WI
2.1+2 Columbus, OH (Winter Werk Out)
2.13 Charleston, SC
2.14 Jacksonville, FL
2.15 Punta Gorda, FL
2.19 Gainesville, FL
2.20+21 Atlanta, GA
2.22 Knoxville, TN
2.23 Nashville, TN


Headin' South With The Werks: Catching Up With Chris Houser March 13, 2018 14:40

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Interview by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
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Ohio-based jam band The Werks are back on the road yet again, and this time, they're headed south for a highly anticipated return to Lexington (KY), Nashville (TN), Atlanta (GA), and Asheville (NC). Known for their inventive creatvity and constant musical exploration, this band promises to deliver a genuinely unique experience for their loyal fans each night. This year is already off to a hot start, as The Werks recently held the second annual Winter Werk Out in Columbus (OH) and have just announced the initial lineup for this year's installation of The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival. This year's festival, which is held annually at Legend Valley in Thornville (OH), will feature four sets from The Werks, as well as Umphrey's McGeeLettucePapadosio, TwiddlePigeons Playing Ping Pong, TurkuazZach Deputy, and many more.
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In preparation for this week's run through the southeast, we caught up with lead guitarist Chris Houser to discuss everything from southern hospitality to songwriting strategy. We're also giving away a pair of tickets to Friday night's show at Terminal West in Atlanta. Share this post directly from our Facebook page and tag a friend in the comments for a chance to win. We will announce the winner at 12:00 PM on Friday, March 16th.  See below for the full interview, as well as further details on The Werks upcoming shows.
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Atlanta is obviously one of the Southeast's musical hotbeds, and Terminal West is undoubtedly one of its premier venues. What do you guys love most about playing down here?
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Chris: Southern hospitality is REAL! Terminal West is on top of the game as far as the hospitality standards go as well. The weather is usually nice and that inspires us a lot especially when traveling from the north most of the time.  The southern states seem to have a different appreciation for our type of music as they really seem to pay attention to the tension and release strategy of our playing and the response is always felt a little stronger down here.
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The band is off to a hot start this year. The 2nd Annual Winter Werkout seemed to be a huge success, and you've now revealed a pretty serious initial lineup for The Werk Out in August. How vital have these homegrown events been to the continued growth of this band?  What are you most excited about for this year's Werk Out?
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Chris: Homegrown is the keyword here. We planted our roots in Ohio in the beginning, and they have grown into an unimaginable network of family and friends that are incomparable to other states, as far as nurturing our imaginations, making us able to follow the dreams we’ve had, whether big, or small. For me, Home is truly where the heart is and the Werk Out and Winter Werk Out have become points of passion for us over the years. We’re proud to show our hometown friends and family what we’ve been up to each and every year. I personally am most excited to bring back Umphrey's McGee for their second year at The Werk Out, being a guitar player myself, they are second to none.
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As a big fan of this band, I've always connected with the consistently uplifting, positive message in so many of your songs. Where do you look for inspiration when writing new material, and how do you feel that message can impact the listener?
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Chris: We often look inside ourselves for inspiration. Sometimes the most uplifting songs come from a feeling of personal despair, and the words are us actually telling ourselves “things will be ok.”  “Compares To You” for example, tells the story of a man completely smitten by a girl whom he knows he will never have, but he tries and tries anyway because, “No one compares to you.”  The listener will ultimately hear what they want to hear from a song and relate it to personal experiences from their own lives, but telling a story that comes from our lives -and hearts- makes the connection real in whatever way the listener chooses to perceive it.
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You guys have a truly special relationship with your fans. Each of you make a point to be accessible both before and after each show. That approach has built a very special culture amongst "The Werkers Union." Why is that such an important factor for you?
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Chris: The personal connection is something that, in this day and age, has fallen off a bit. We are more likely to text someone nowadays instead of calling. We are more likely to be shy instead of starting the conversation. To me, when someone takes the time to talk face to face, it is infinitely more important and impactful than just saying hi or sending an emoji via text or Facebook. When I go see a band, it means so much more to me that I feel I know the person playing, and their notes seem to take on new life and reflect their personality more than if I was just watching or listening blindly with no background whatsoever.
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For the casual music fan who might be (hypothetically speaking of course) coming out to see their first Werks show this weekend, what can they expect from that initial experience?
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Chris: We hope to convey a feeling of joy, spontaneity, and willingness to adapt.  A lot of our songs enter a realm where one person starts a groove, and the rest of us take a moment to study it and adapt our minds to compliment said groove. A first timer might have a similar experience with a new group of people that he or she has met at our show. Our fans are always very joyous, spontaneous, and adaptive. We like to think that we inspire that in some way and the world needs more people like our fans in it IMHO. Werkers are our favorite people in the world and we wouldn’t trade them for anything. 
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Watch the official recap from Winter Werk Out 2018 here:
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The Werks: Upcoming Tour Dates
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3/14 Cosmic Charlie's - Lexington, KY
3/15 Exit In - Nashville, TN
3/16 Terminal West - Atlanta, GA
3/17 Pisgah Brewing - Asheville, NC
3/23 Ophelia's - Denver, CO
3/24 Hodi's Half Note - Fort Collins, CO
4/13 Soundstage - Baltimore, MD
4/20-4/22 Earlybird Festival - Garretsville, OH
4/20-4/22 Backwoods Music Festival - Ozark, AR
4/28 - Boonies - Toledo, OH
6/21-6/24 - Electric Forest - Rothbury, MI
6/28-7/1 - Electric Forest - Rothbury, MI
8/2-8/4 - Werk Out Festival - Thornville, OH
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The Werks Release Extensive 2018 Tour Dates February 8, 2018 11:02

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Fresh off the completion of the second annual Winter Werk Out, Ohio-based jam veterans The Werks have released a slew of new tour dates. Last weekend saw the band play host to the likes of PapadosioZach DeputyAqueous in the band's home state, and many others, and we can't wait to see what's in store for the remaining winter and spring tour dates. 
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This run of shows kicks off this weekend and includes a pair of shows alongside BIG Something (Burlington, VT & Boston, MA), and continues with stops down the East Coast, Midwest, Southeast, and eventually out to Colorado. Current festival appearances include Earlybird Festival in Garretsville, OH (4/20-4/22), Backwoods Music Festival in Ozark, AR (4/20-4/22), both weekends of Electric Forest in Rothbury, MI (6/21-6/24 & 6/28-7/1), and of course The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival in Thornville, OH (8/2-8/4). See below for a full list of dates!
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Watch The Werks perform "Jungle Boogie" with Zach Deputy at Winter Werk Out here:
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The Werks: 2018 Tour Dates 
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2/8 Wall Street Theater - Norwalk, CT
2/9 Higher Ground - Burlington, VT
2/10 Brighton Music Hall - Boston, MA
2/11 The Hollow - Albany, NY
2/22 Calico Room - Wilmington, NC
2/23 Tradition Brewing - Newport News, VA
3/8 Zanzabar - Louisville, KY
3/9 The Bootleg - St. Louis, MO
3/10 The Mousetrap - Indianapolis, IN
3/14 Cosmic Charlie's - Lexington, KY
3/15 Exit In - Nashville, TN
3/16 Terminal West - Atlanta, GA
3/17 Pisgah Brewing - Asheville, NC
3/23 Ophelia's - Denver, CO
3/24 Hodi's Half Note - Fort Collins, CO
4/13 Soundstage - Baltimore, MD
4/20-4/22 Earlybird Festival - Garretsville, OH
4/20-4/22 Backwoods Music Festival - Ozark, AR
4/28 - Boonies - Toledo, OH
6/21-6/24 - Electric Forest - Rothbury, MI
6/28-7/1 - Electric Forest - Rothbury, MI
8/2-8/4 - Werk Out Festival - Thornville, OH
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BIG Something Confirms 25-Date Winter Tour December 13, 2017 21:58

Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography

Few bands have been have the type of impact on us that BIG Something has this year. The North Carolina-based six-piece finds a way to blend the best elements of 90's rock with the perfect amount of psychedelic improvisation. Earlier today, the band announced an major winter tour, which see's the band down the east coast and across the southeast. This run kicks off in serious fashion with a two-night stand with The Werks, with the remaining dates leaving plenty of speculation for some serious supporting acts. This is a band / tour you don't want to sleep on in 2018: plain and simple.

If you're still looking for New Year's plans, BIG Something has a big three-night run scheduled at Raleigh's Lincoln Theatre on Friday, December 29th - Sunday, December 31st. Supporting acts include Maradeen, Travers Brothership, Urban Soil, and Dr. Bacon. See below for complete list of winter tour dates, and make sure the follow the band on Facebook and Instagram for all of the latest updates.

2/9 - Burlington, VT @ Higher Ground Showcase Lounge*
2/10 - Boston MA @ Brighton Music Hall*
2/11 - Buffalo NY @ Mohawk Place
2/14 - Syracuse NY @ Westcott Theater
2/15 - Philadelphia PA @ The Foundry @ The Fillmore Philadelphia
2/17 - Morgantown WV @ 123 Pleasant Street
2/18 - Columbus OH @ The Basement
2/21 - Ann Arbor MI @ Blind Pig
2/22 - Indianapolis IN @ HiFi Indianapolis
2/23 - Chicago IL @ Lincoln Hall
2/24 - Kalamazoo MI @ Bell’s Eccentric Cafe - Back Room
2/28 - Louisville KY @ Zanzabar
3/1 - Lexington KY @ Cosmic Charlie’s 
3/2 - Nashville TN @ Exit In
3/3 - Chattanooga TN @ Revelry Room
3/17 - Roanoke VA @ Martin’s Downtown
3/23 - Telluride CO @ Sheridan Opera House
3/24 - Telluride CO @ Sheridan Opera House
3/29 - Denver CO @ Bluebird Theater
3/30 - Fort Collins CO @ Hodi’s Half Note
4/3 - Bozeman MT @ The Eagles Ballroom
4/4 - Missoula MT @ Top Hat Lounge 
4/5 - Sandpoint ID @ The Hive
4/6 - Sandpoint ID @ The Hive
4/7 - Seattle WA @ Tractor Tavern
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* w/ The Werks

Listen to BIG Something's "Song For Us" here:


American Beauty Confirms Shows Surrounding Phish New Year's Run October 3, 2017 15:40

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American Beauty NYC will once again become the headquarters for pre and post show fun when Phish return to New York’s Madison Square Garden on Dec. 28-31, 2017. In addition to ticketed concerts, the bar/concert venue (located one block south of MSG) will also stream the Phish concerts across multiple projectors and host Grateful Dead DJs in the upstairs Jerry Lounge for free.
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American Beauty NYC is thrilled to announce a full schedule of events and bands who will perform before and after each Phish concert at MSG throughout their New Year’s Eve residency. Artists include Kung Fu [originals + Steely Dan], Particle, The Werks, Electric Love Machine, Half Step (Grateful Dead tribute), Teddy Midnight, and many more. PhanArt will be doing another full-venue takeover on Friday, Dec 30th with a performance from local favorites, Polyvamp.
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The venue will open at 3pm daily. Fans can grab their signature FREE personal thin-crust pizza with a unique selection of craft beers on tap and phan favorite cocktails. A recap video of the nonstop fun and festivities that took place at American Beauty during the Baker’s Dozen MSG over the summer can be watched here.
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Daily/Nightly Schedule:
12/28 Pre-Show: Uncle Stump + Teddy Midnight [FREE]
12/28 Post-Show: Very Special Guests TBA
12/29 Pre-Show: PhanArt [FREE]
12/29 Post-Show: Particle
12/30 Pre-Show: Half Step (Grateful Dead tribute) [FREE]
12/30 Post-Show: The Werks
12/31 Pre-Show: Electric Love Machine [FREE]
12/31 Post-Show: Kung Fu (Originals + Steely Dan covers)
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Tickets are on sale now at www.AmericanBeautyNYC.com/Phish

Follow American Beauty NYC: 
http://americanbeautynyc.com/

Watch The Werks Cover An Isaac Hayes/South Park Classic August 30, 2017 14:55

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Photo by Craig Baird: Home Team Photography
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After finishing up another highly successful summer full of major festival appearances, The Werks are back to their rigorous touring schedule in support of their latest studio release MagicAnyone familiar with the veteran Ohio-based jam band knows to expect the unexpected; with a wildly diverse catalog of originals and unique covers. Friday night's show at Headliners Music Hall in Lexington, KY was no exception, as The Werks busted out a flawless, yet hysterical take on Isaac Hayes' "Chocolate Salty Balls" for the first time since 2012. 
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Many will recall this song via South Park's "Chef" in 1998, and it's safe to say that Chris Houser (guitar/vocals) did this one justice. Thankfully, Charles Izenstark (IZEoftheworld) was on hand to capture the magic in its entirety. Check out the video footage below, and head over to the band's official Facebook page for all of your latest Werks' updates.
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Watch The Werks perform "Chocolate Salty Balls" here:
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For those who are curious, here's Isaac Hayes performing the original at Glastonbury 2002:
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Catch The Werks and Passafire on tour this fall. Click here for a complete list of dates and further details!
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The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival Returns This Weekend August 1, 2017 15:46

 

Photos by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

While festival season may be slowing down a bit, one of our favorite annual weekend lies ahead at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio. After finally making it up for The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival last year, we immediately knew that this would be a can't miss occasion moving forward. Host band The Werks put in countless hours preparing and planning for this weekend each year, and one can only imagine what's in store for this festival's eighth installment this weekend.

This year's lineup promises to satisfy cravings for a wide variety of genres, with many of the festival scene's hottest acts coming together for the weekend. Several elements of this year's Werk Out have us particularly excited, and that all starts with The Werks headlining the main stage on all three nights. This includes a special 'Werktronic' set on Friday night, which promises to bring a serious dance party and even a few special guests. There is absolutely no telling what these guys will do at Legend Valley, and this year should be no different.

Two of last year's Werk Out favorites, Dopapod and Twiddle, will both return this year for two nights each. While Dopapod has been a staple for several years, Twiddle made its debut just last year, and it's hard to imagine a Werk Out without them in the future. This year will also feature the second installment of Twerkapod: Tribute To The 90's, which will include a rotating cast from The Werks, Twiddle, and Dopapod. This set is scheduled for 2:15 AM on Saturday morning, and one can only imagine what these guys have planned for round two.

Watch highlights from Twerkapod here:

Fans of the jamtronic scene are in for a major treat this year, as Gramatik and Emancipator are both scheduled for late night sets, and The Floozies will be on the main stage before Friday night's 'Werktronic' set. Werk Out veterans Zoogma also returns for two nights, while Future Rock will be handling the final set of the weekend at 3:00 AM on Sunday morning. Friday night's SunSquabi set on the Side Stage also promises to be a wildly entertaining hour of music, while Ivan Neville & Dumpstaphunk will surely have funk-filled party planned for their set on Saturday.

One of our favorite elements of this festival is its focus on bringing in many of the hottest 'up-and-comers' from across the country. Between BIG Something, Reed Mathis & Electric Beethoven, Spafford, and CBDB, its tough to decide who we're most excited about. The Electric Beethoven lineup features some serious players with Reed Mathis (Tea Leaf Green / Billy & The Kids), Todd Stoops (RAQ), Jay Lane (Ratdog/Primus), and Clay Welch. The entire concept of 'classical dance music' and this band's reinterpretations of Beethoven's symphonies is mind blowing. BIG Something, Spafford, and CBDB have each had huge years thus far, and they have certainly been in heavy rotation on our personal playlists. The weekend's sleeper set could easily come in the form of Funk You on Saturday afternoon. There is a reason that the Georgia-based funk outfit is crushing the southeast market.

While we already touched on the Twerkapod tribute set, there are several other tributes worth checking out this weekend. Last year's Broccoli Samurai set was one of our weekend highlights, and this year's Lotus tribute will surely be a hot topic. Additional tribute sets will come in the form of Oh Kee Pah: Tribute To Phish, Bulls On Parade: Tribute To Rage Against The Machine, Any Colour: Tribute To Pink Floyd, and Arrows of Neon: Tribute To The Grateful Dead.

While the lineup never disappoints and the operations of this festival are first class, the true magic lies within the sense of community. Those who have attended know exactly what we mean, and those heading to Ohio this weekend will feel it as soon as they arrive. The Werks have created, maintained, and grown one of the best parties in the midwest today, while always keeping the focus on the fan experience. The band members make a point to roam around, speak with fans, and enjoy the experience themselves. The sense of community that surrounds this band is the main ingredient in this festival's success, and we look forward to enjoying the ride for many years to come.

Watch The Werks perform "Carry Me Back Home" at The Werk Out 2016 here:

 


American Beauty Has Your Phish 'Baker's Dozen' Parties Covered July 21, 2017 16:07

Photo by Capacity Images

As we all gear up for Phish's 'Baker's Dozen' run at Madison Square Garden, it's essential to know of your best options for both before and after the shows. While the options are nearly endless in New York City, very few will offer the convenience and caliber of talent that American Beauty has line up. First off, the multi-room venue is literally one block away from The Garden. More importantly, you will be setting yourself up to catch a variety of established national acts, as well as many of the hottest up-and-comers from across the country. Oh yeah, they serve a slice of free pizza with every drink purchased.

Their line-up of bands is impressive, and includes scene favorites like The WerksElectric BeethovenZach Deputylespecial, as well as rising bands like West End Blend, 13-year old Brandon “Taz” Niederauer’s bandMister FAtlas Road Crew, Maradeen. Plus there will be special one-night only collaborations of amazing musicians such as the J-Dilla tribute featuring Borham Lee (Break Science), Daru Jones (Jack White), Maurice ‘Mobetta’ Brown (Tedeschi Trucks Band), Nate Edgar (Nth Power) & other very special guests.
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In addition to the amazing line-up of shows, American Beauty has unique and fun activities planned for the entire 13 night run:   

  • The Jerry Lounge -- a hang out space on the second floor, designed to replicate the lot scene from outdoor Phish shows. Entry is free, and the lounge will feature vendors curated by PhanArt, a Grateful Dead DJ, grilled cheese, and other entertainment.
  • Free personal pizza served with each drink purchased, and an affordable and diverse craft beer & cocktail selection that’s otherwise impossible to find in Midtown Manhattan.
  • Phish and Grateful Dead Trivia Night --  held on the two off-night Mondays (7/24 & 7/31), the jam band trivia is especially perfect for out-of-town Phriends in NYC for the run and looking for affordable and fun things to do.
  • Grateful Dead Related Shows & Jerry’s Birthday Celebration Shows -- A number of post and pre shows will focus on the Grateful Dead’s music, and all shows on August 1st will celebrate the life of Jerry Garcia. (Full details below).  

Named after the Grateful Dead’s 1970 studio album, American Beauty has made a serious connection with the jam band community over the fourteen months it’s been open. The bands booked for the pre & post show run resonate with the scene, and with the venue’s proximity to Madison Square Garden, affordability, and general chill vibe -- oh and free pizza! -- it’s a refuge in Midtown for fans looking for something to do before and after Phish. 

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American Beauty Show Schedule:
7/21 After-Party: The Werks
7/22 After-Party: The Werks
7/23 Pre-Party: Polyvamp & Dorsia
7/23 After-Party: West End Blend & DJ Logic
7/25 Pre-Party: The Mallet Brothers Band
7/25 After-Party: John Kadlecik Band
7/26 Pre-Party: Escaper
7/26 After-Party: John Kadlecik Band
7/28 Pre-Party: Brandon “Taz” Niederauer Band
7/28 After-Party: Big Mean Sound Machine
7/29 Pre-Party: PhanArt art show with Space Carnival
7/29 After-Party: J-Dilla Tribute ft. Borahm Lee (Break Science, Pretty Lights Live Band), Daru Jones (Jack White), Maurice ‘Mobetta’ Brown (Tedeschi Trucks Band), Nate Edgar (Nth Power) & Very Special Guests
7/30 Pre-Party: Wig & Bee
7/30 After-Party: ShwiKus Play P-Funk  (downstairs)
7/30 After-Party: lespecial (upstairs)
8/1  Pre-Party: Jerry’s Birthday Jam: Half Step
8/1 After-Party: Reed Mathis & Electric Beethoven - Celebrate Jerry’s Birthday
8/2 Pre-Party: Mister F & Of Clocks and Clouds
8/2 After-Party: Zach Deputy
8/4 Pre-Party: Maradeen
8/4 After-Party: Atlas Road Crew
8/5 Pre-Party: Yellow Dubmarine
8/5 After-Party: Midnight Bluegrass (Members of Yonder Mountain + more)
8/6 Pre-Party: Grateful Dead Pizza Party with Steve Urban, Josh Kates, Ray Kairy & more
8/6 After-Party: Reed Mathis & Electric Beethoven

All Pre-Parties are 3pm Doors, 4pm Show
All Post-Parties are 11:30 Doors, 11:55 Show
For additional announcements, check www.americanbeautynyc.com

Kick Off Your Weekend With The Werks' New Album 'Magic' March 17, 2017 13:42

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Ohio-based jam band The Werks has officially released its fifth studio album, Magic, which has already made its way into the weekend's heavy rotation.  Magic is the band's first official release since November of 2015 (Inside A Dream), and the band's first studio release since bassist Jake Goldberg joined the band in early 2016.  The album features eight total tracks, with a steady balance between heavy hitting instrumentals and catchy, nostalgic sing-a-longs.   Columbus’ own Hoodoo Soul Band even makes an appearance on horns for "Lights Out," easily one of the album's most dynamic tracks.
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The Werks will be out on the road for the majority of the spring supporting the new album, with the first annual Werk Out West Music & Arts Festival being held this weekend at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom in Denver, CO.  See below to stream 'Magic' in its entirety today, as well as a complete list of The Werks upcoming tour dates. Head over to The Werks official website and Facebook page for all the band's latest updates.
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Official Album Notes:
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On their forthcoming LP Magic, jamband favorites The Werks transcend their roots while never losing their identity. Poignant songwriting and engaging melody come together on a record that showcases their maturation as a multidimensional group of uniquely creative musicians.

The virtuosic rhythm junkies of The Werks have released four highly acclaimed studio albums over the past ten years - Synapse (2009), The Werks (2012), Mr. Smalls Sessions EP (2014), and Inside a Dream (2015) - performed well over one thousand shows (including launching their own multi-day music festival The Werk Out), and released countless live recordings including last year’s Live at The Werk Out live album. In that time they’ve earned a devoted fan base across the world and reputation as one of the most energetic, compelling, and downright entertaining live acts in the business. They’ve developed a hard won confidence, and a willingness to fearlessly chart new sonic territory on Magic.

“This is our first truly multi-genre album” says Chris Houser. “Each track has its own unique vibe and sound. We didn’t write these songs to please people, we wrote them because this is what we hear when we turn off the outside and let the creativity flow.”

The songs on Magic started as sketches the band members crafted independently. Coming together in their sonic dojo The Werkspace, those seeds of groove were nurtured by the group, growing into fully wrought songs through holistic arrangement and organic improvisation. “Our writing is collaborative,” explains Dan Shaw, “but starting with demos written individually gives each band member a chance to leave their fingerprint on a tune.”

The songwriting finished, the band decamped to Sonic Lounge in Grove City, Ohio. There lead engineer and producer Joe Viers (Blues Traveler, Twenty One Pilots) settled down to work with the studio’s legendary Amek/Neve 9098i mixing console. One of only thirteen in the world, Sonic Lounge’s was originally installed in Olympic Studios in London, England, where it served to document the unique creative mojo of Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, and more.

Joining Viers were assistant engineers and producers Aaron Oakley and B.J. Davis, and the unstoppable horns of Columbus’ own Hoodoo Soul Band - Chris Young (trumpet), Kevin O’Neil (tenor), and Phil Clark (Baritone) – while Kenny Holmes, tour manager and right hand man, was the gaff tape that held it all together. Finally Columbus native and current Los Angeles, CA resident Brian Lucey (Train, Dr. Dog) mastered the record.

From those sessions emerged a rare jewel of a record; Magic is muse put to tape, a direct download of the creative spark. “This is a recording of the music that’s in our souls” explains Rob Chafin. “In a way, the past decade has been leading to this moment. We play and write together so seamlessly now, we’re able to channel the inspiration in our hearts out into our instruments, and come at this from a pure place.” Together, these visionaries have crafted a record where melodies take flight, dancing and twisting around the sonorous main of the tune itself. By fusing their spirited improvisation to a core of immediately engaging songwriting, The Werks have truly performed a feat of modern musical Magic.
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Watch The Werks perform "G-Funk" with special guest Todd Stoops at The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival (2016) here:
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The Werks Announce Initial Lineup For The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival March 9, 2017 12:22

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Veteran jam band The Werks has revealed the initial lineup to the 8th annual The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio on August 3rd-5th.  Quickly becoming one of the most anticipated festival of the summer, The Werk Out consistently features several established national headliners, along with many of the hottest up-and-coming bands from across the festival scene.  Host band The Werks is scheduled to headline all three nights, while additional performers include 

Gramatik, The Floozies, Emancipator, Dopapod (two nights), Dumpstaphunk (featuring Ivan Neville), Future Rock, Zoogma (two nights), Sunsquabi, Big Something, Spafford, Jonathan Scales FourchestraJahman BrahmanJoe Marcinek BandCBDBBrother's GowSubterraneanElectric Orange Peel, and many more to be announced. A collaborative TWERKAPOD: A Tribute to the 90s – Vol. 2 set was also announced following last year’s debut featuring members of The Werks, Dopapod and Twiddle. 

See below for highlights from last year's Werk Out 2016, and make sure to head over to the festival's official website for further details and ticket options.  Stay tuned for future updates and lineup additions!

The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival Initial 2017 Lineup

  • The Werks
  • Gramatik
  • The Floozies
  • Emancipator
  • Dopapod
  • Dumpstaphunk (featuring Ivan Neville)
  • TWERKAPOD: A Tribute to the 90s – Vol. 2
  • Future Rock,
  • Zoogma
  • Sunsquabi
  • Big Something
  • Spafford
  • Jonathan Scales Fourchestra
  • Jahman Brahman
  • Joe Marcinek Band
  • CBDB
  • Brother’s Gow
  • Subterranean
  • Electric Orange Peel

High Sierra Music Festival Adds Major Lineup Additions February 10, 2017 16:39

High Sierra Music Festival has confirmed one of the most impressive lineups of 2017 thus far, with performers such as Trey Anastasio Band, Ween, STS9, Snarky Puppy, Galactic, Mike Gordon, The Greyboy Allstars, The Infamous Stringdusters, Corey Heny & The Funk Apostles, Keller Williams, Fruition, Dopapod, The Werks, and many more.  Tickets and weekend passes are available now via the High Sierra official website. See below for a complete list of 2017 performers.

High Sierra Music Festival is a multi-day music festival held in Quincy, California, a mountainous area about 80 miles northwest of Reno, Nevada.The festival is held each year the weekend of July 4. The four-day festival features an eclectic mix of some of the most famous national and international names in jamband, newgrass and funk. Other represented genres include bluegrass, roots rock, electronica, reggae, jazz and afrobeat.

Away from the music stages, patrons can attend films and movement playshops - yoga, pilates, etc., shop for arts and crafts, or enjoy a wide variety of gourmet food and drink. It's a family friendly and community oriented event with an expanding Family Area full of activities and certified nannies available throughout the weekend.

The first High Sierra Music Festival was in 1991, and was the genesis of High Sierra Music, of Berkeley, California. The organization has also produced festivals and concerts elsewhere in California, and in Maryland, Nevada, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Missouri.

Watch Greensky Bluegrass perform "Windshield" at High Sierra 2016 here:


Funk You Announces Massive 2017 Spring Tour January 23, 2017 12:05

One of Georgia's hottest up-and-coming bands, Funk You, has announced details on a major Spring tour for 2017.  This run of shows will see the band through the month of April and includes supporting dates with bands such as Perpetual Groove, The Werks, and BIG Something.  The funk will kick in to full force starting on Friday, February 3rd at Birmingham's WorkPlay Theatre with BIG Something, before an opening spot for Perpetual Groove at the Georgia Theatre on Friday, February 10th.  

A five-night run with The Werks will follow, which includes stops in Asheville (2/15), Atlanta (2/16), Jacksonville (2/17), Savannah (2/18), and Charleston (2/19).  Funk You will then head out west for a week in Colorado in early March before making its back through Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana.  The tour winds down with a hometown show for The Major Rager Afterparty (Augusta - 4/06), and shows in Virigina Beach (4/13), Wilmington (4/14), and Greenville (NC - 4/15).  You can also find Funk You performing at SweetWater 420 Festival at Centennial Park in Atlanta, GA on April 23rd.  See below for a full list of tour dates.

For all of the latest Funk You news, head to the band's Facebook page and official website.

Watch Funk You and friends perform Prince's "1999" at the 2016 SweetWater 420 Fest afterparty here:

Official Bio: Funk You (Augusta, GA)

Hailing from the east side GA town of Augusta, FUNK YOU is an outgoing burst of energy that is continually climbing their way to the top of the music scene. This "funk" oriented outfit projects multiple musical styles focusing mainly on dance driven grooves with powerful clean vocals. Incorporating intriguing musical composition, tasteful lyrics, and crowd captivating live performances, FUNK YOU is surely to make an imprint on your musical taste.


FUNK YOU provides the audience with a furious fusion of influences ranging from Umphrey's Mcgee, Lettuce, James brown, and Stevie Wonder. By colliding funk, jam, rock, fusion, and prog into one uniform sound, these guys will keep your jaw dropped and your feet moving without stopping. Their songs combine lush ambiance, catchy vocals, and intense shredding simultaneously into a unique well defined sound.


For three years the band has been building their fan base in the southern local markets of Atlanta, Augusta, Athens, Statesboro, Milledgeville, Savannah and Macon. They have numerous sold out shows in Augusta and also at the Georgia Theater in Athens. With performances alongside Maceo Parker & Fred Wesley (James Brown horn section), Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Tea Leaf Green, Robert Randolph, Snarky Puppy, and Moon Taxi, the band is paving their way to the festival circuit. FUNK YOU was voted best R&B band by August Magazine and was named Relix Magazine's "Artist On the Rise" in their July/August 2013 issue. Perseverance and hard work best describe the band's attitude, so if you haven't yet, you will be seeing them soon.


SweetWater 420 Fest Releases Final Lineup For 2017 January 18, 2017 20:07

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SweetWater 420 Festival has added 30+ performers to it's already stacked lineup, and fans of the jam scene have every reason to rejoice.  Joining previously announced headliners Trey Anastasio, Widespread Panic, Ween, Slightly Stoopid, and Dirty Heads will be moe., Talib Kweli, Dopapod, Twiddle, Jackie Greene, Anders OsborneThe Werks, Break ScienceSunSquabi, The Hip AbductionStop Light Observations, BIG SomethingCBDBFunk YouVoodoo Visionary, and many others. Previously announced performers include Dark Star OrchestraAnders Osborne, Lettuce, The festival also unveiled a comedy lineup that includes former SNL cast member Jon Rudnitsky as well as Jake Nordwind, Joe Pettis and others.

Headliners Widespread Panic will perform two nights of the festival for a total of four sets throughout the weekend, while Anastasio will perform two sets with his solo band. Sweetwater 420 Fest will kick off April 21-23 in Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

Watch the official 2017 lineup announcement video here:


Funksgiving: Presented By Central Alabama Psychology - Friday 11/25 November 16, 2016 13:50

Photo by Taylor Wallace: iWally Photography

We couldn't be more pleased to announce our title sponsor for Funksgiving 2016: Central Alabama Psychology.  As we have said many times before, we would not be able to continue hosting these annual events without the support of our local business sponsors.  Dr. Kale Kirkland at Central Alabama Psychology provides various psychological services to our state, including forensic evaluations, diagnostic and psychoeducational assessments, disability evaluations for social security and veterans, and psychotherapy services.

We would also like to recognize our additional sponsors: The Starke Agency, Vintage Year, Zaxby's, Porch Band of Creek Indians, Neptune Technology, Guntharp Financial, Hans Heating & Air, Cathead Vodka, Sabel Steel, 95.1 The Fox, Embassy Suites, MST, SaZa, Chris' Hotdogs, Fly Aerial Studio, Capital City Club, Alabama Dumpster Services, Print Sound, and Alabama Steel.  Each of these businesses has gone above and beyond to support our mission of bringing live music for a cause to the Montgomery area, and we wouldn't be here without them.

Funksgiving 2016 will feature The Werks (two sets), McLovins, & Dank.   This year's event will take place at the Union Station Train Shed in Montgomery, AL on Friday, November 25th.  We have been working on this event since early 2016, and we could not be more excited to see everything come to life next week.  This will be a benefit for Family Promise of Montgomery and E.A.T. South.  Both VIP and General Admission tickets are available by clicking here.  Don't worry about dinner plans, as Chris' HotdogsSaZa Serious ItalianNYC Gyro, and Alabama Sweet Tea Comapany will be on-site all night.  Make sure to come early, as we will offer a special kid's area (5:00 - 7:00 PM) this year which will include a bounce house, face painting, and a balloon artist.  Kids ages 12 and under will be admitted for free.  Additional vendors include Organic HippieYour Health Sprouted FlourHoops For Fitness, and Soul Light Stars.

Click Here: Purchase Funksgiving Tickets Today!

Family Promise of Montgomery is one of over 150 affiliates across 39 states. Family Promise of Montgomery unites the interfaith community and local resources to help homeless children and their families return to stability. Their interfaith network consists of 13 "host" congregations and 7 "support" congregations. These congregations serve homeless families within the places of worship and provide meals and a safe place to stay.

E.A.T. South is a non-profit organization based in Montgomery, Alabama that encourages healthy lifestyles through education & sustainable food production in urban areas throughout the Southeast.  E.A.T. South envisions communities across the Southeast have access to fresh, healthy, affordable food and the knowledge about food preparation that supports a healthy lifestyle.  E.A.T. South currently manages two urban farms - Montgomery's Downtown Farm and our Farm at Hampstead. Both teaching farms offer educational programs and provide fresh, naturally-grown fruits and vegetables to the greater community.

Watch the official promo video for Funksgiving 2016 here:

Funksgiving 2016 Announcement from Sune Media on Vimeo.

Watch the official after movie for Funksgiving 2015 here:

Funksgiving 2015 Recap from Sune Media on Vimeo.


The Werks Announce 8-Week Coast-To-Coast 2017 Tour November 16, 2016 12:54

Beloved Ohio jam rockers The Werks have responded to tragedy and transition by solidifying the strongest lineup in their decade of existence. They’re ready to launch 2017 with an 8-week coast-to-coast run in support of this effort, their fifth full studio release entitled “Magic”.  Full dates listed below.  Tickets go on sale 11/18 at TheWerksMusic.com.

It all kicks off with a 2-Night Event in early February in Columbus, OH, the “Winter Werk Out Music and Arts Festival”, which is a sister showcase to the band’s 8th Annual Werk Out Festival, returning next August to Legends Valley in Thornville.  Count on two big nights with hometown heroes The Werks plus a host of national rock and electronic acts. 

Tour then heads to major cities in the Northeast like New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, DC, before a swing through the South, including favorite stops in Asheville, Atlanta & Charleston.  After that, they’ll hit the Colorado ski resorts as well as Denver, where the band will host their first ever “Werk Out West Music & Arts festival” over 2 nights, featuring multiple shows with The Werks and many other acts.

They’ll continue West through the Rockies with visits to Utah, Montana, and the Treefort Festival in Boise, before landing on the Pacific Coast and two weeks of shows throughout Washington, Oregon, and California. The tour then concludes with the band’s debut visit to Phoenix.

Catch their sensational blend of rock and deep electronic funk beloved by fans across the musical spectrum, as The Werks visit a town near you with special guests like Cure for the Common, Moogatu, and many more to be announced soon.

Tickets go On Sale Friday November 18th at www.TheWerksMusic.com.

The Werks 2017 Tour Dates:

2/3/17 - Winter Werk Out Music & Arts Festival - Columbus, OH
2/4/17 - Winter Werk Out Music & Arts Festival - Columbus, OH
2/8/17 - Brooklyn Bowl - Brooklyn, NY#
2/9/17 - Once Ballroom - Boston, MA
2/10/17 - The Foundry - Philadelphia, PA
2/11/17 - Gypsy Sally's - Washington, DC~
2/12/17 - The Broadberry - Richmond, VA
2/14/17 - Lincoln Theatre - Raleigh, NC
2/15/17 - Asheville Music Hall - Asheville, NC
2/16/17 - Terminal West - Atlanta, GA
2/17/17 - 1904 Music Hall - Jacksonville, FL
2/18/17 - Barrelhouse South - Savannah, GA
2/19/17 - Pour House - Charleston, SC
3/14/17 - Taos Mesa Brewing - Taos, NM
3/15/17 - Agave - Avon, CO*
3/16/17 - Barkley Ballroom - Frisco, CO*
3/17/17 - Werk Out West Music & Arts Festival - Denver, CO
3/18/17 - Werk Out West Music & Arts Festival - Denver, CO*
3/19/17 - Mesa Theater - Grand Junction, CO*
3/21/17 - OP Rockwell - Park City, UT*
3/23/17 - Knotty Pine - Victor, ID*
3/24/17 - Eagles Ballroom - Bozeman, MT*
3/25/17 - Top Hat - Missoula, MT*
3/28/17 - Big Dipper - Spokane, WA
3/29/17 - Nectar Lounge - Seattle, WA
3/30/17 - Wild Buffalo - Bellingham, WA
3/31/17 - Star Theater - Portland, OR
4/1/17 - Domino Room - Bend, OR
4/2/17 - HiFi Music Hall - Eugene, OR
4/4/17 - Humbrews - Arcata, CA
4/5/17 - Crystal Bay Club - Lake Tahoe, NV
4/6/17 - The Independent - San Francisco, CA
4/8/17 - Winstons - San Diego, CA
4/9/17 - Last Exit Live - Phoenix, AZ

* w/ Cure for the Common
# w/ Swift Technique
~ w/ Moogatu

Watch The Werks perform "Duck Farm" at AURA 2016 here:


Watch The Werks' Entire Set at Red Rocks Amphitheatre September 1, 2016 14:14

As the summer rolls along, there is never any shortage of world class music at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, and this weekend was no exception.  Veteran rock group 311 hosted the annual Reggae On The Rocks, which also featured performances from Iration, Steel Pulse, Morgan Heritage, The Werks, and Judge Roughneck.  While The Werks aren't exactly a reggae band, this was a monumental opportunity nonetheless, as this would serve as the band's first performance at the famed venue.  Thanks to dedicated videographer Charles Izenstark, The Werks' entire 60-minute set from Red Rocks can be watched in full HD below.  

Watch The Werks perform at Red Rocks Amphitheatre here:

Video by Charles Izenstark: Izeoftheworldphotos

Setlist: The Werks: Red Rocks Amphitheatre: 08.27.16

Moving On
Better Than Before
Fat Man
Galactic Passport > While My Guitar Gently Weeps Jam > Galactic Passport
Lights Out
Duck Farm


The Werks, McLovins, and Dank Round Out Funksgiving Lineup August 17, 2016 22:50

Live & Listen is pleased to announce that Funksgiving 2016 will feature The Werks (two sets), McLovins, & Dank.  We have been working on this show for quite some time and could not be more excited to share this news.  This year's event will take place at the Union Station Train Shed in Montgomery, AL on Friday, November 25th.  This will be a benefit for Family Promise of Montgomery and E.A.T. South.  Both VIP and General Admission tickets will go on sale on Friday, September 2nd.

Family Promise of Montgomery is one of over 150 affiliates across 39 states. Family Promise of Montgomery unites the interfaith community and local resources to help homeless children and their families return to stability. Their interfaith network consists of 13 "host" congregations and 7 "support" congregations. These congregations serve homeless families within the places of worship and provide meals and a safe place to stay.

E.A.T. South is a non-profit organization based in Montgomery, Alabama that encourages healthy lifestyles through education & sustainable food production in urban areas throughout the Southeast.  E.A.T. South envisions communities across the Southeast have access to fresh, healthy, affordable food and the knowledge about food preparation that supports a healthy lifestyle.  E.A.T. South currently manages two urban farms - Montgomery's Downtown Farm and our Farm at Hampstead. Both teaching farms offer educational programs and provide fresh, naturally-grown fruits and vegetables to the greater community.

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The Werks have emerged & established themselves as a national powerhouse; delivering an electrifying dance party to beloved fans across the musical spectrum. Fusing psychedelic shredding, wailing organ, and slap bass with synthesizers and modern dance beats, their live shows encompass a sensational blend of jam-rock and deep electronic funk.

These genre-benders will be touring throughout 2016 in support of their 4th studio album, 'Inside a Dream' released in November 2015, which takes listeners on a track-by-track musical voyage through the heart of a dream; into their own hopes, fears, and aspirations. The seasoned jam-centric quartet brings a sonically superior mix of otherworldly explorations and revelatory lyrics to this artistic and mature musical statement.

Through sanguine compositions that effortlessly transition from spacious soundscapes to driving rhythms, the album merges multiple genres in a style that only this Ohio quartet can deliver. Throughout the 11-track release, Inside a Dream remains raw yet polished, and emotional yet whimsical… it is within these contradictions where the depth of the band truly shines.

Catch them soon in a city near you, or at the 7th incarnation of their “Werk Out Music & Arts Festival” in August, which draws 5000+ people annually to Ohio.

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McLovins is a soulful rock band that complements a youthful and infectious energy with seasoned and diverse musical talent. Inspired by an eclectic mix of influences like The Band, Steely Dan and The Flaming Lips. Bassist Jason Ott, drummer Jake Huffman, guitarist Justin Berger and keyboardist Atticus Kelly combine their progressive songwriting skills with 70’s inspired extended improvisations and instrumental ingenuity.
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Hailing from Hartford, Connecticut, McLovins have appeared at Gathering of the VibesMountain Jam,The Peach Festival, and the legendary Nateva Music Festival. They have also performed with some of the most influential artists on the scene, including Buddy GuyGeorge Porter Jr., Oteil Burbridge and Robert Randolph.
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Currently the band is on the road promoting its self-titled new album cut in New York
City’s East Village and produced by 2-time Grammy award winner Bill Sherman.
As the band continues to evolve, consistency lies in the distinctive Jam-rock production that brings a vibrant sound and a unique energy to many acclaimed venues and festivals across the country.
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Through years of touring and experimentation, Dank has searched for the strongest ingredients, boldest grooves, and most intoxicating melodies with which to light up their audiences. Take a dash of pop vocals, a sprinkle of synths, a hair of funk guitar, layer it with electric piano, driving bass, chunky riffs, and shake it up with a groove you can dance to. Check out Dank's latest EP Get Up or check their tour dates to see them live!

Funksgiving is Live & Listen's inaugural live music event in Montgomery, Alabama, held annually on the night after Thanksgiving, which is conveniently the night before the Auburn vs. Alabama football game, also known as The Iron Bowl.  The idea was to start a tradition in Montgomery on a night where many natives are back in their hometown.  Our hope is to continue this tradition for many years, ultimately making Funksgiving one of the most highly anticipated annual music events in the Southeast.  

Funksgiving 2015 featured Robert Randolph & The Family Band, McLovins, & BYOG at the Union Station Train Shed in Montgomery, AL on Friday, November 27th 2015..  The event raised a total of $3000 for Parkinson Association of Central Alabama.  The event drew over 700 attendants in Downtown Montgomery and served as Live & Listen's largest show in Montgomery to date.

Funksgiving 2014 was the inaugural Live & Listen event.  The show featured Earphunk and McLovins at The Warehouse at Alley Station and raised a total of $2500 for Run Bell Run, a local fundraising campaign for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.  The event drew over 400 people to Downtown Montgomery, setting the tone for many great shows ahead for Live & Listen.  

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A Weekend In Review: The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival August 12, 2016 13:08

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Words by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Year in and year out, music fans can count on summertime presenting an overwhelming variety of options to satisfy their musical appetite.  The vast majority of national acts pack their schedules with gigs from coast to coast, and it seems as if there is a major music festival every weekend.  Last weekend was the quintessential example, as Ohio-based jam/rock band The Werks hosted it's annual "homecoming" weekend: The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival.   

The Werk Out began in 2010 at Zane Shawnee Cavernsan indian reservation with underground crystal caves in Bellefontaine, Ohio.  The festival quickly outgrew that area and relocated to Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio, where it has now been held for the past five years.  After hearing the rave reviews over the past few years and diving deep into The Werks' catalog, I knew that this was the year for a summer journey from Alabama and Ohio.  This ended up being easily one of my best decisions in recent memory.

From the moment we arrived on Thursday afternoon, the positive vibes were flowing from every angle.  An enthusiastic, welcoming staff directed our group to a prime camping spot, and we made at least 10 new friends before the campsite was even completed.  While there are numerous elements of The Werks that I have come to love, it's the positive culture that surrounds the band really seals the deal.  

Upon entering the festival grounds for the first time, Chris Houser (lead guitar - The Werks) was playing on the main stage with his very first band, Cheezcake, who set a perfect tone for the weekend.  Shortly after, we had the pleasure of catching several tunes from Sassafraz, a super talented group from Columbus which produced The Werks' newest band member, Jake Goldberg (bass).  Our first journey to the "Big Tent" led us to Mister F, who provided some serious funk prior to Dopapod taking the main stage.

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Dopapod has quickly become one of the jam/festival scenes hottest acts, and their success is justified with every performance.  Watching those guys perform, with a beautiful sunset in the distance, made for a very special moment early on.  We even got to sing "Happy Birthday" to the bands audio engineer/light designer Luke Stratton, as the band called him to the stage for a cake presentation.  Shortly after sunset, the crowd shifted just a matter of feet to the "Side Stage," where America's favorite power funk army Turkuaz ignited one of the biggest dance parties of the weekend.  It's truly amazing to witness the production and chemistry of this band in person.  They advertise "power funk," and they absolutely deliver "power funk."

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

The main stage was now set for the weekend's first set from The Werks, who took the stage fully participating in the evening's "track suit" theme.  The band came out firing with classics such as "For Today," "For You," and "Fire Eater," and even debuted a cover of Elton John's "The Circle of Life" from The Lion King.  A classic duel on the keys between Dan Shaw and special guest Todd Stoops occured during "G-Funk," before a massive "Hard to Find" > "Cloud Hopper" > "Hard to Find" would close out the set.  This was particularly satisfying, as my last Werks festival set was cut short when a nasty thunderstorm hit during "Cloud Hopper" at AURA earlier this year.  Another cover was debuted for the encore when the band busted out "Carry On My Wayward Son" by Kansas.  Somehow or another, Lettuce was up next for a late night set in the big tent, and night one at The Werk Out couldn't have been much hotter.

Watch The Werks perform "G-Funk" with special guest Todd Stoops here:

Video by izeoftheworldphotos

Photos by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Day two at Legend Valley picked up right where Thursday left off, and the party was alive and well in The Big Tent by early afternoon.  The Big Damn Jam served as a touching tribute to Norman Dimitrouleas, the former keyboardist of The Werks who tragically passed away in January of this year.  Norman had always wanted the band to play The Beatles' Abbey Road in it's entirety, and his brother Dino, Todd Stoops, and many others performed the album in epic fashion.  Next up was an early afternoon dose of heavy funk courtesy of Kung Fu, a band that always brings the party and never disappoints.  

Anyone that has been to a music festival understands that you have to be strategic; often leaving one set earlier than you would like to in order to catch one of those "must see" bands.  This was the story of Friday afternoon, but that's definitely not a bad problem to have.  It was now time for CBDB to kick off a 60-minute set it in The Big Tent.  These guys never cease to amaze me.  This would be the band's first performance with bassist Mike Sinopole, and you would've thought he'd been with the band for years.  The highlight of the set came in the form of two debuts: a cover of the Grateful Dead's "Loose Lucy" followed by a brand new original, "She's Mobile."  I can't help but predict very big things to come for CBDB in the near future.

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

We quickly made it back to the main stage as Twiddle kicked off their set with the classic "Jamflowman."  It had been way too long since I had seen these guys, and I was quickly reminded why they have really blown up recently.  Fortunately, they were scheduled for an additional set on Saturday, which allowed me to scoot back over to The Big Tent just in time for Backup Planet, one of the most promising young bands I have seen in years.  I was introduced to this band earlier this year at AURA Music & Arts Festival, when they delivered one of my favorite sets of the weekend.  These guys managed to exceed some very high expectations.  Backup Planet is the real deal, and they might have the best cover of "Whipping Post" that I've ever heard.

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

Dopapod was now back on the main stage for another amazing sunset performance, only to be followed by a wildly energetic set on the side stage from live electronic act Zoogma.  I've had the pleasure of watching Zoogma work their way up from the college bar scene to the national festival scene, and I couldn't be happier for their success.  You get everything from electronic blues/rock to hip-hop with Zoogma, and how could you not get down to that?

The stage was now set for one of the weekend's biggest moments: two full sets of STS9.  There was a significant number of the Tribe faithful who came to The Werk Out specifically for this moment, and they were rewarded with a stellar festival performance.  The first set had two extremely unfortunate moments; the first of which involved a fan hopping on stage, climbing on drummer Zach Velmer's kit, and taking a trust fall onto the drummer mid-song.  Velmer handled the situation like the true professional that he is, and the band picked up right where they left off.  The set was then cut short due to technical/power issues, but the band returned for it's second set and gave Legend Valley an absolute gem.  The "Hubble" > "Orbital" > "Hubble" segue was as tight as anything I've heard from this band.  "World Go Round" made for an epic dance party to close out the set, and the "Breathe In" encore was simply perfect.  I couldn't have more respect for this band's response to a few unfortunate issues that were out of their control.

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

It was now time for The Werks to continue the party in the big tent, which some might have seen as a difficult task after two powerful sets of STS9.  The boys kicked things off with a bang as they worked through the powerful instrumental "Lights Out," followed by the first "Transformational" since November of 2015.  They even finished the "Cloudhopper" from Thursday night.  Dino Dimitrouleas returned to the stage for an extended jam on "Rollin," and two of my personal favorites, "Find Your Way" and "You're Not Alone," closed out the set in heavy fashion.  

You would think this had to be the end of the evening, but the most unique moment of the night was yet to come.  The stage was now set for Twerkapod, a one-time 90's tribute set featuring a rotating cast of members from The Werks, Dopapod, and Twiddle.  What proceeded after 2:30 AM was nothing short of beautiful, epic, and hilarious.  For a more detailed recap and video footage of the Twerkapod set, click here.

Watch Twerkapod perform Blues Traveler's "Run Around" here:

Video by Charles Izenstark: izeoftheworldphotos

As we entered the final day at Legend Valley, the positive energy was contagious, and we were faced with yet another killer lineup.  Broccoli Samurai kicked things off early on the main stage, and these guys blew my mind.  The Cleveland-based four-piece held down a ridiculously melodic groove from start to finish, and they have some of the best song titles I've ever heard of.  I'm really looking forward to following this band moving forward.  

Members of The Werks, Twiddle, and Greensky Bluegrass joined forces for the Matt Butler's Everyone Orchestra, which opened things up for some truly amazing improv jamming.  I had heard a lot about this project over the years, but this was my first time witnessing it in person.  The constantly rotating cast always brings something new to each stage, and watching this collection of musicians in this capacity was a definite highlight.  BIG Something proceeded to absolutely crush the side stage, while The Werks headed over to the VIP tent for a three-song acoustic set which included Neil Young's "Cortez the Killer," "Fall," and "Better Than Before."  This was my first time seeing these guys in an acoustic setting, and it only further affirmed how diverse this band can be.

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Greensky Bluegrass was next up on the main stage for one of the most anticipated sets of the weekend.  We took advantage of the grass hill back toward the vendors to enjoy the set full of all of the Greensky classics.  It had been quite some time since I'd had the pleasure of seeing these guys live, and damn...they were amazing.  They even brought out Mihali Savoulidis from Twiddle for "Last Winter in Copper County."  As soon as Greensky finished, Twiddle would take the side stage by storm for their second set of the weekend, which featured many of my favorites, such as "Be There," "Lost in the Cold," Syncopated Healing," and "Frankenfoote."  

Watch video footage of Greensky Bluegrass w/ Mihali Savoulidis of Twiddle here:

Video by Charles Izenstark: izeoftheworldphotos

The main stage was now set for what you could easily call the weekend's main event.  The Werks were slated for two sets, and they took the stage in full tuxedos.  "Alive" kicked off the set and bust outs of "Give or Take" and "Cruel Stone Blues" would follow.  The always powerful "OG" ultimately led into a cover of Edgar Winter Group's "Frankenstein" which closed out the first set in epic fashion.  "Drop" kicked off the second set, which has to be one of the most clever songs in recent history.  An extended "Werk Out Jam" moved into an "Immigrant Song Jam," and things truly took off from there.  

The sequence of "Finding Destiny" > "Galactic Passport" > "Finding Destiny" > "Galactic Passport" > "Finding Destiny" was on another level.  A raging rendition of "Onslaught" provided a classic Werks rager to close the second set.  The decision to encore with "Carry Me Back Home" came as no surprise, as the emotional tune had not been played since prior to the passing of Norman Dimitrouleas.  Dino returned to the stage for this one, which was an emotional, touching tribute to say the least.  Midway through the song, Rob Chafin addressed the audience and invited the entire Werk Out crew to the stage for the song's closing chorus. 

Watch the "Finding Destiny" > "Galactic Passport" sequence here:
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Watch The Werks' perform "Carry Me Back Home" here:

Videos by Charles Izenstark: izeoftheworldphotos

As many readers will understand, you're just never going to make it to every set that you plan for over the course of a weekend festival.  After three full days and two very late nights, I didn't have it in me to make it back over to The Big Tent for the two remaining sets from The Motet and Earphunk (Daft Phunk).  This was defintely my biggest regret of the weekend, but as the old saying goes, "You can't make 'em all."  There was a noticeable buzz amongst the campground surrounding both late night sets, and it sounds like Earphunk went above and beyond, with a set that went far beyond the time they were obligated to play until.  This came as no surprise, as that's the type of performance that those guys are known to give.  

As I wrap up what is easily one of the longest articles in the history of this website, I can't help but wonder if there is anyone who has actually continued reading to this point.  For anyone who has, thank you for reading through my memories of this amazing weekend.  There is no brief or concise way to justifiably recount this experience.  When thousands of fans come from every corner of the country to gather in the spirit of music and art, it is truly a beautiful thing.  The Werk Out was circled on my calendar for several months, and the anticipation which surrounded it was very real.  My expectations couldn't have been much higher, and they were exceeded each and every night.  I can't say enough about the job that Rob Chafin and the entire Werks crew has done in building and growing this festival into what it has become.  The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival was an experience that I will never forget, and I can't wait to return in 2017.

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions


Watch Video of Twerkapod's 90's Tribute Set from The Werk Out Music Festival August 9, 2016 18:31

Over the weekend, Ohio-based jam band The Werks hosted its 7th annual Werk Out Music & Arts Festival at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio.  With headlining sets from STS9, Lettuce, Greensky Bluegrass, and The Werks, as well as amazing performances from Dopapod, Twiddle, The Motet, Earphunk (performing as 'Daft Phunk'), Turkuaz, CBDB, Backup Planet, and so many more, this year's Werk Out was wildly successful. 

The Werk Out has often been known for its unique tribute sets, such as The Werks, Dopapod, and Papadosio performing Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon" in its entirety in 2014.  This year's tribute came in the form of Twerkapod, which featured The Werks, Twiddle, and Dopapod performing many of the greatest hits from the 90's from 2:30AM - 4:00AM.  Fortunately, select video footage has surfaced on YouTube via Izeoftheworldphotos and Amanda Siedner, which can be seen below.

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Green Day - "Basket Case" (Rob Chafin of The Werks on vocals)
Blink 182 - "All The Small Things" (Chuck Jones of Dopapod on vocals)
Sublime - "Date Rape" (Mihali Savoulidis of Twiddle on vocals)
Nirvana - "Smells Like Teen Spirit" (Mihali Savoulidis of Twiddle on vocals)
Harvey Danger - "Flagpole Sitta" (Dan Shaw of The Werks on vocals)
Coolio - "Gangster's Paradise" (Dino & Rob of The Werks on vocals)
Rage Against The Machine - "Killing In The Name"  (Dino of The Werks on vocals)
Red Hot Chili Peppers - "Give It Away" (Mihali Savoulidis of Twiddle on vocals)
Britney Spears - "Hit Me Baby One More Time (Chuck Jones of Dopapod on vocals)
Third Eye Blind - "Semi-Charmed Life" (Rob Chafin of The Werks on vocals)
Hanson - "Mmm Bop" (Scotty Zwang of Dopapod on vocals)
Spin Doctors - "Little Miss Can't Be Wrong" (Rob Chafin of The Werks on vocals)
Blues Traveler - "Run Around" (Mihali Savoulidis of Twiddle on vocals)
Radiohead - "Creep" (Eli Winderman of Dopapod on vocals)
Foo Fighters - "I'll Stick Around" (Scotty Zwang of Dopapod on vocals)
TLC - "Waterfalls" (Mihali Savouldis of Twiddle & Scotty Zwang of Dopapod on vocals
Encore: The Verve - "Bittersweet Symphony" (Chris Houser of The Werks on vocals)
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Watch footage of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" (Nirvana) here:

Watch footage of "Flagpole Sitta" (Harvey Danger) here:

 Watch footage of Gangster's Paradise (Coolio) here:

Watch footage of "Killing In The Name" (RATM) here:

 

Watch footage of "Hit Me Baby One More Time" (Britney Spears) here:

Watch footage of "Run Around" (Blues Traveler) here:

Watch footage of "Creep" (Radiohead) here:

Watch footage of "Waterfalls" (TLC) here:


CBDB and Members of The Werks Will Play Umphrey's Afterparty in Birmingham July 6, 2016 11:53

If you're heading to see Umphrey's McGee at Avondale Brewery on Thursday night, you're going to want to plan accordingly for your after show plans.  One of the southeast's hottest young bands, CBDB, is scheduled to play the official Umphrey's McGee afterparty at Zydeco, and they're preparing for an extra special occasion.  Joining CBDB will be several members from The Werks, who is currently on tour with Umphrey's and opening up Thursday night's show at Avondale Brewery.  Music is scheduled to begin at 11:00 PM, so head on over to Zydeco as soon as Umphrey's wraps up at Avondale.

Click Here: Purchase Tickets Today!

We spoke with CBDB's Kris Gottlieb (guitar) earlier today, and it's clear that this is a night that the band has been looking ahead to for some time:

"This is going to be our first official Umphrey's afterparty.  We went on tour with The Werks back in April, so we're really excited to have a few of those guys join us.  We just recently got home from a run through the northeast.  Our last show was on Father's Day in Brooklyn, NY.  We've been off since then, so we're really excited to play this week.  It's always great to get back to Birmingham, especially for such a special occasion.  We're very grateful for the opportunity, and we hope everyone shows up ready for a great show." - Kris Gottlieb (guitar) of CBDB

Watch CBDB's official music video for "Somewhere to Fall" here:

CBDB is a progressive rock/jam band formed in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, whose stock is rising fast. Fresh off the release of their third album, entitled The FAME EP, they are seeing a pattern of snowballing momentum with large, energetic crowds hungry for their unique brand of progressive jam-rock, dubbed Joyfunk. CBDB blends soulful vocals and virtuosic instrumentation with smart, tasteful songwriting resulting in a sound that can be enjoyed by the casual listener and audiophile alike. On stage, they parade tight, ambitious compositions that seamlessly gives way to loose, adventurous improvisation and have quickly become a must-see act.


Looking Ahead To The Werk Out: An Interview With Rob Chafin June 8, 2016 16:11

 

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Interview by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen

We recently had a chance to catch up with Rob Chafin (drums/vocals) of The Werks, in an effort to learn more about one of the summer's hottest festivals, The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival.  In addition to handling the duties behind the kit for The Werks, Rob also serves as talent buyer for The Werk Out, which is celebrating it's seventh anniversary in 2016.  The festival is scheduled for August 4th-6th at Legend Valley in Thornville, Ohio, featuring acts such as The Werks (three nights), STS9 (two sets), LettuceGreensky Bluegrass, DopapodTwiddle, and many more.  

Let's get started and talk a little Werk Out.  You guys started this festival in 2010, making this year number seven.  How did this idea come to life, and how have things progressed over the years? 

Rob: We started The Werk Out in 2010 at Zane Shawnee Caverns in Bellefontaine, Ohio.  It was an indian reservation with underground crystal caves, so it's not technically part of Ohio.  It was pretty ridiculous the first two years.  We quickly outgrew that area and moved it to Legend Valley, where the festival has been held for the past four years. Legend Valley is obviously historic with the Grateful Dead playing there, as well as bands like Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and countless others throughout the year.  The Grateful Dead would have around 60,000 people out there.  It is literally Legend Valley.  It's an honor to be able to have our party there now.  This is certainly on the trajectory of being the biggest Werk Out, by far.     

It's great to see the universal growth of the bands on this lineup, like Dopapod, Twiddle, Greensky, and of course The Werks.  Last year you guys brought in Umphrey's McGee, and this year it's Sound Tribe Sector 9.  I look at this festival as a collection of the best bands in the jam scene. 

Rob: Well thanks man.  It's definitely great being a musician as the talent buyer because I’m able to be in the trenches, see who are absolutely killing it and bring them to the festival.  Luckily, a lot of these bands are our friends!  It's amazing to look back at all of the bands who have played The Werk Out.  Having STS9 and Umphrey’s at our event is truly an honor.  Even GRiZ played back in 2013 when he was getting started, and he's absolutely huge now.  The Floozies are blowing up.  Greensky Bluegrass played back in 2012, and now they're back as a headliner...watching Dopapod grow every year.  It's absolutely incredible.  

 Watch The Werks perform "Onslaught" at The Werk Out 2015 here:

It really is.  Aside from the established acts and those you have known for years, how do you go about filling out the lineup with the up-and-comers?   

Rob:  I'm definitely always looking for the new up-and-coming acts. There is definitely a long waiting list, because while we try not to repeat everyone every year, but there are typically only a few open slots each year.  We try to keep it new and interesting.  We try to see who's been killing it lately and bring them to the party.  I'm always on the lookout for great musicians, songwriters, and of course great drummers, but I might be a little biased there (laughs).  

Click Here: Purchase Tickets To The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival

You guys have put together several epic tribute sets in recent years.  In 2014, it was The Werks, Papadosio, and Dopapod performing Dark Side of the Moon.  What other tributes have you guys done in the past?  Let's hear a little more about the Twerkapod Tribute to the 90's this year. 

Rob: Whenever we get to collaborate with our friends, it's always fun for us. We had a blast doing Dark Side of the Moon with Papadosio and Dopapod.  So of course with Dopapod, we already know it's gonna be fun to do this 90's cover set with them.  We went on tour for the entire fall last year with Twiddle, and we had some many epic superjams with them.  To be able to involve them and bring them to The Werk Out for their first year is really exciting.  We're gonna throw down and play some awesome 90's covers with some of our best friends!   

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

How do you go about selecting the setlist from such a diverse decade of music?  Have you finalized which songs will make the cut yet? 

Rob: Yeah, we already have the songs picked out.  It's top secret, classified information, of course (laughs).  I can tell you one thing though.  It starts at 2:30 in the morning, so get your beauty rest the night before! 

Wow...that's going to be epic.  So in 2014, the famous Furthur bus stopped by The Werk Out.  Is that something that has happened in the past? 

Rob: So they were doing a tour that summer.  They hit a lot of festivals, like Gathering of the Vibes and a lot of the really big ones.  We were lucky enough for them to choose The Werk Out as one of their stops.  We played "Cryptical" > "The Other One" > "Cryptical" and had Zane and Derrick come out and kind of bless the crowd beforehand (laughs).  It was really cool.  They had a blast, and we would love to have the bus come around again. 

Watch The Werks perform the Grateful Dead's "Cryptical" > "The Other One" > "Cryptical" at The Werk Out here:

 

I cant say enough about the quality of HD video footage from The Werk Out.  You guys really capture the essence of the festival and give those unable to attend a nice taste of what it's all about. 

Rob: Of course...Jeremy Sewell is one of the best in the business.  We're very lucky to have him on board. 

No doubt about that.  So aside from the music, what other activities do you guys offer at The Werk Out? 

Rob:  We have a lot of other things going on.  While it's a music festival, it's specifically a music and arts festival.  We definitely have a lot of interactive art installations.  We have over 50 live painters, and a lot of performers and fire spinners.  There's yoga in the mornings.  We have an entire workshop dome, where people are presenting workshops ranging from philosophical and introspective workshops all the way to how to make ice cream.  We also have the VIP room for meet and greets and what not. 

I think the biggest thing is that it's BYOB.  We don't sell alcohol at the festival, so everyone can bring in their own.  There is no festival of our size that does that.  We don't really advertise it, but that's how we want it.  It's one of the things I learned as a festival goer.  As an event producer, it's great to have the perspective of being in a band and an avid festival goer.  It's a rare opportunity to see all angles and try to accommodate as best as possible. 

The little things like that really go a long way.  Attention to detail and that type of decision making are a big reason why this festival has become what it is today.  You guys obviously know what it takes to throw a successful festival.  What do you feel are some of the most important factors of establishing a building an annual music and arts festival? 

Rob: First and foremost, it's crucial to have an amazing support staff and team.  We're lucky to have some of the best in the business.  The vibe is crucial.  The vibe starts with the staff and the artists, and it works its way to the fans.  When the staff and artists are all vibing, and everything is running smooth, I feel like that vibrates to the music, the crowd, and everything else.  I've always looked for that and making sure we have that strong core team.  We feel like the artists are family to us.  Listening to the fans is also crucial.  You have to talk with everyone and see what they want.  That's a big part of it, while still sticking to your guns.

Photo by Josh Timmermans: Noble Visions

Click Here: Purchase Tickets To The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival

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Throwback: The Werks, Papadosio, & Dopapod Perform 'Dark Side Of The Moon' May 26, 2016 14:29

Those who follow the jam/festival scene can vouch for the fact that there is currently an endless amount of talent to choose fromWith new, exciting acts knocking on the door each year, The Werks, Papadosio, and Dopapod have established themselves as mainstays in the circuit. Back in 2009, The Werks founded The Werk Out Music & Arts Festival and have since solidified the annual event as one of the premier jam rock festivals in the country. Both Papadosio and Dopapod have been a part of the festival on multiple occasions.

Today, we are looking back on a major highlight from The Werk Out 2014, which featured members of The Werks, Papadosio, and Dopapod  performing the iconic Pink Floyd album, Dark Side of the Moon, in it's entirety. Members of each band rotated on and off stage throughout the set, which even included a cameo from Zach Deputy during "Great Gig in the Sky." If you haven't had the privilege of watching this epic performance, we recommend setting aside 45 minutes, getting extra relaxed, and enjoying the video linked below.

Watch The Werks, Papadosio, and Dopapod perform 'Dark Side of the Moon' at The Werk Out 2014 here:

Founded in Columbus, Ohio in 2005, The Werks is best known for its quick rise into the jam band music scene and appearances at major festivals and events across the US and abroad.  In early June 2011, the band rose to prominence when it hit the number 2 top searched artists on the leading online jam magazine, jambase.com, behind the band Phish and again in early 2012 when they hit number 1.

Originally from the creative collegiate hotbed of Athens, Ohio, Papadosio is now centered in Asheville, North Carolina.  Hitting virtually all major and secondary U.S. music locales and select festivals across North America, Papadosio tours on a massive scale but maintains a close intimacy with their fans.  

The Boston born, now generally Northeast based, but ever on-the-go Dopapod has come a long way from their college basement, DIY party roots.  The past 4 years have individually held the weight of about 150 shows, and included numerous festival appearances like AURA Music & Arts Festival, Wakarusa, Summer Camp, Electric Forest, Camp Bisco, Peach Fest, & Gathering Of the Vibes, and Bonnaroo 2015.

Click Here: Purchase Tickets to The Werk Out 2016


Win Free Tickets To See The Werks & Gravy At Zydeco After Widespread Panic April 21, 2016 08:58

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Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen
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Live & Listen is excited to announce that we are teaming up with our friends at Zydeco in Birmingham, AL for an official Tedeschi Trucks Band / Widespread Panic Afterparty on Saturday night (4/23).  One of the hottest bands on the jam/festival scene, The Werks, will headline the show with support from Gravy.  We are offering you the chance to win a free pair of tickets + a $20 bar tab to be redeemed at Zydeco by following the instructions listed below.

All participants must be 21 years of age or older.  

About The Werks:
Fusing psychedelic shredding, wailing organ, and funk slap bass with synthesizers and modern dance beats, The Werks have quickly emerged as a national powerhouse, bringing a big dance party beloved by fans across the musical spectrum.

About Gravy:
Gravy has successfully “created their own very original sound with their latest album Get Busy Living – a bit of neo soul mixed with some indie rock smothered in a whole bunch of New Orleans funk” according to producer of Gravy’s latest album and founding member of Galactic, Robert Mercurio. Inspired by a cultural renaissance and newfound clarity of vision; Gravy preaches the gospel of New Orleans funk while maintaining a creative voice steeped in the time-­‐honored traditions of The Crescent City. 

Watch The Werks perform "Duck Farm" at AURA 2016 here:
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We have one pair of tickets to giveaway, and we will announce a winner at 6:00 PM CST on Friday (4/22). The winner's name (+1 guest) will be placed on the list at Will Call at Zydeco on Saturday night.  The winner's name will automatically be listed with a $20 credit at the upstairs bar at Zydeco.

All participants must be 21 years of age or older.

How the contest works....

1: 'Like' this post directly on our Facebook page.

2: Share this post directly from our Facebook page.  Make sure your privacy settings are set to 'Public' so we can see that you shared the post.

3: Tag a friend who you would like to take to the show in the comments on our Facebook page.

4: The winner will be announced on our Facebook page on Friday (4/22) at 6:00 PM CST.

Photo by Jordan Kirkland: Live & Listen


Watch The Werks Jam Out "Boogie On Reggae Woman" at Founders Brewery April 11, 2016 13:36

It has undoubtedly been a busy Spring thus far for The Werks, already covering much of the Southeast before heading out West for the always popular Colorado run.  The Ohio-based jam band was back at it this weekend as they took the stage at Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Saturday night made for an extra special occasion for the band's rabid fan base, as the show was slated for two full sets.  A photograph of Saturday's setlist is included below, which doesn't include an extra funky take on Stevie Wonder's "Boogie On Reggae Woman." The wildly popular cover was added on to close out the second set.  Enjoy the video of "Boogie On" below courtesy of Ize of the World Photos.

The Werks tour continues on this week in Jackson, MS (Tuesday), Memphis (Wednesday), Oxford, MS (Thursday), Louisville, KY (Friday), and Lexington, KY (Saturday).  You won't want to miss this tour, as the band is featuring several of the jam scenes hottest up-and-comers as opening acts, such as CBDB, Backup Planet, and Gravy.  Catch The Werks at Zydeco in Birmingham, AL on Saturday (4/23) for an official Widespread Panic / Tedeschi Trucks Band Afterparty with support from Gravy. 

Photo by Werks' fan Christopher Jokinen