What does a hockey stick,an old metal tub and a piece of rope have in common? For those of you who aren't aware,they are the components that make up the bass guitar used by "The Stables", a unique,highly innovative and tirelessly energetic local band that brought their 21st-century bluegrass hoedown to Chicago's last Thursday.Rising out of the ashes of "The Kent Boys" in July of last year to fly on a higher level,"The Stables" are definitely a one-of-a-kind musical experience .Best described as original acoustic-bluegrass-roots-country-punk,the group is made up of three very talented singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalists,Poor Pelly,Billy Blasko and Darren Clarke who often trade places around the stage to play guitar,banjo,harmonica,wash-tub bass and a drum kit that's comprised of a snare drum wearing a Hawaiian skirt,bongos,a tambourine and an old suitcase that's found new life as a kick-bass drum.If you've ever seen anything like this,I'd like to know where,'cause I sure as hell haven't.For the very appreciative audience that ranged from teenagers to senior citizens, it was as spellbinding as much as it was interesting and fun.You'll find that all three members are as vital to the group as are the three components of the wash-tub bass.If for some reason you left the room for a couple of minutes,you might see on your return that the guitar player is now on bass,the bass player is now the drummer and the drummer is on guitar and this rotation of players would continue all night long!Though influenced by the Bill Monroe/Flatt and Scruggs classic school of bluegrass,"The Stables" present their well-crafted original songlist in a variety of modern styles which makes their music accessible to anyone.As their motto is "Keeping It Simple and Telling a Story", the witty lyrics that tell these tales(from personal experiences) is at the forefront and are as memorable as they are cheeky and amusing.Check out their excellent website http://www.myspace.com/herecomethestables before the next "...high-energy sonic hoedown". You can't help but join in the fun and let these boys lift your spirits as they put on an incredible show that's not to be missed!
Further to that and as a result of the great show last week,Chicago's will now present "The Stables" on the first Thursday of each month,beginning February 7th,from 9pm to 1 am.( Yayyy!!..and Thank you!!!). Now everyone will have the chance to enjoy and support this prime example of young local talent,even if you're "Too Old To Skate..Too Young To Bowl",or if you have "ADD",in which case I'll remind you each month if I have to.The pictures and the video below are just tiny examples of what to expect.You really need to be there and be part of the festivities......See You There!!!
