Fat Tuesday, February
24, 6-9pm
Mardi Gras Party
featuring Authentic Creole Cuisine, Costume Contest, and Olde
Time New Orleans Jazz by Gumbo
Mardi Gras Party featuring Costume Contest and Authentic Creole feast, including Blackened Pacific Chinook Salmon, Seafood Étouffée, Oregon Dungeness Crab Cakes, BBQ Yaquina Bay Oysters and Black Bottom Pie.
Dance to raucous vintage New Orleans music by Corvallis band Gumbo, with Joe Casprowiak on Clarinet, Banjo, Flute & Vocals, Sid Beam on Guitar & Vocals, David Fournier on Bass & Vocals. Visit Gumbo at www.GumboBand.biz
No cover required for admission; however
a donation is requested at the door for the band. Dinner reservations
strongly advised: 541-754-6958.
Saturday, January
17, 9:30pm
The Neon Gypsies,
All Girl Rock n' Blues
Don't miss Corvallis' only all-women rock and blues band, with Amber on Guitar, Sara on Keys & Vocals, MaryAnne on Bass & Vocals and Rose on Drums & Vocals. Their debut at FireWorks last Halloween was a smashin' success!
The MySpace page for the Neon Gypsies reveals the following influences: all the Great Queens of Musical Expresssion: Heart, Stevie Nicks, Pat Benatar, Blondie, The Go-Gos, Jewel, Cyndi Laupre, Fiona Apple, Gwen Stefani (only in No Doubt), Jenna Summer Smith, Blood on the Banjo, Janis Joplin, Ella Fitzgerald, Tori Amos, Arthrea Franklin, Bonnie Tyler, and Freddie Mercury. And some Awesome Kings Too: Jack and Kyle, The Beatles, Bob Marley, Pink Floyd, Chuck Berry, the Grateful Dead, the Morphin, Sublime, Floater, Flogging Molly, Drop Kick Murphys, The Clash, It Doesn't Matter, Drew Wylie, and Da Dutch Boy, and Josh Fix...
For more info and sample trackes, visit Neon Gypsies at www.myspace.com/corvallisneongypsies
Sunday, January 4,
7pm
Tony Noble, Delta
Blues Slide Guitar
Third place winner in this week's Open Mic Talent Search, Tony Noble gigs at FireWorks showcasing his exceptional slide guitar technique. Tony reports he has been influenced by Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, R.L. Burnside, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, Bob Marley, and John Lee Hooker among others.
Hear Tony's music at www.MySpace.com/NobleBlues Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Sunday, December 28,
7pm
Karl Smiley, Guitar
Folk n' Blues
Long time folk artist
from Summit and Open Mic favorite. Karl Smiley plays his finger-pickin'
eclectic mix of folk, blues and originals. Dinner reservations
recommended: call (541) 754-6958.
Friday, December 12, 8pm
The Student Loan,
High Velocity Newgrass
The Student Loan is an eclectic four-piece bluegrass/newgrass band, originally from Bowling Green, Ohio and now located in Portland, Oregon. Mixing elements of traditional bluegrass and folk music with elements of rock, jazz, and blues, The Student Loan has a sound that defies genre and is both familiar and new. With original songs and a vast library of covers from groups as diverse as Bill Monroe, The Beatles, Phish, and Sublime, The Student Loan will please just about any audience.
Formed in the spring of 2005, The Student Loan synthesizes a wide array of musical styles and backgrounds. A formally trained composer, percussionist, and violinist, West Virginian mandolinist Chad Kimbler blazes a trail of furious picking, and guitarist and fiddler Liz Chibucos, a Bowling Green, Ohio native and avid songwriter, brings to the table a wealth of jazz, classical, and rock influences. Banjo player and guitarist Mark Gerolami of upstate New York draws upon a rich background of folk, western, and world music, and seasoned rock, gospel, and jazz bassist and Tacoma, Washington native Julio Appling lays down a solid foundation and more than holds his own as a soloist. Hear the Student Loan at www.myspace.com/thestudentloan
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Sunday, November 23,
7pm
Guitjo Kicks: Josh
& Julia on Guitar & Banjo
Guitjo Kicks is a guitar/banjo duo fresh from the Eastern Sierras in California and new to the Corvallis area. Josh and Julia have been playing music together for over two years, with influences ranging from Hot Rize, John Hartford, Tony Rice, and Doc Watson to Neil Young, Gillian Welch, Townes Van Zandt and many others. Julia's original music features her soulful voice, developed through years of classical training, as well as banjo and guitar. Josh contributes to the instrumental aspect of songwriting and is honing his skills as a flatpicker and dobro player. Fast and slow, stop and go it don't matter what you need to Guitjo Kicks.
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Saturday, November 22, 8pm
Future Roots, Folk-Rock-Reggae-Jam
Future Roots grew out of the Oregon State University scene - lots of hanging around and jamming in the Random House basement. Their music combines strong basslines, rhythmic guitar and banjo, soaring saxaphone, and driving percussion with soulful vocal harmonizing on original songs, as well as covers of Reggae and Jam tunes.
Hear Future Roots online at www.myspace.com/futureroots
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Friday, November 7,
8pm
Ben Gilmer, Americana
Indie Folk
Ben Gilmer grew up in the mountains of southwestern Virginia where he passed his time messing around the farm with his brother and cousins and playing music with family. With a long family history in the region, Ben started out learning traditional bluegrass music the traditional way - Thursday nights at the local barbershop with the regular gathering of seasoned pickers.
Using traditional bluegrass and country music as his foundation, Ben started writing songs in high school that reflected his growing appreciation for Americana, alt-country, and roots music. Ben's songwriting reflects a strong sense of place deeply rooted in southern Appalachia - honest songs about hard times, family, and love. Playing solo and with various bands, Ben has entertained pubs, coffee houses, and concert venues throughout the mid-Atlantic region for the past ten years, and is now based in Seattle, WA.
Hear samples of Ben's music at www.myspace.com/bengilmer
Sunday, Novemer 2,
7pm
Craig Schmele Jazz
Trio
The right music is the perfect complement to an evening of fine food, friends and conversation. Hear the Craig Schmele Jazz Trio perform absolutely understated interpretations of the best 20th century jazz standards. Without pretense, the Trio infuses emotion and space in to these familiar tunes, and the outcome is an atmospheric quality that doesn't interrupt your evening, but rather rewards the careful listener.
On guitar is Craig Schmele, an experienced performer familiar in solo and ensemble settings, including nearby folk and blues jams and festivals. Tom Groves plays electric bass with the Trio and may be heard elsewhere as the bassist with the Hilltop Big Band and Willamette Valley Concert Band. Bobby Gomez, a former musician with Hawaii's Kauai Community Jazz Band, is a virtuosic young piano player whose influences, including Vince Guaraldi and Bill Evans, can be heard in his own lyrical playing.
Join the Craig Schmele Jazz Trio at Fireworks
to elevate your evening to a lasting memory.
Saturday, November
1, 8pm
Samhain: a Celtic
New Year's Celebration
with Burning Truth Tribe Fire Dance Theater
The Burning
Truth Tribe performance troupe
focuses on the intrinsic connection between music, song, and
dance. The members of Burning Truth
Tribe perform a unique musical style of "gypsy fusion,"
a sensory feast of original music and Romani-inspired song accompanied
by international instrumentation seamlessly blended with the
inventive choreography of poi spinners Luminara, Azayam, and
Willow.
The artful discipline of poi spinning traces its origin to the Maori, Polynesian peoples whose culture dates back several thousand years. The tradition offers a highly visual art in which you create mesmerizing patterns of interwoven circles by swinging two "poi," or weighted objects, around your body.
Poi can be glow sticks, flashy fabrics and also wicks for fire fastened to cords or chains that the spinner manipulates to create patterns of motion in the air. Whether spinning flames or flags of silk, the dancers engage the audience in a beautiful ballet of visual delight in perfect harmony with the the Tribe's enticing world beat.
The original Sanskrit word for music, "sangita,"
had three counterparts and was only complete when all three were
present: singing, playing, and dancing. In Burning Truth, we
seek to embody sangita. Our offering is music ~ to inspire movement,
thought, and imagination and spark the tender inner fires within
us all. An ever changing parade of performers also travels with
the troupe throughout the year, bringing unique talent combinations
to the core tribal elements of Burning Truth.
Visit Burning Truth Tribe online at www.burningtruth.net
and www.MySpace.com/burningtruthtribe
Sunday, October 26,
7pm
Billy Sunrise, Americana
Blues
Singer/songwriter Billy Sunrise has been
on the musical scene since '71 plying his trade in Old Town Chicago,
on the corners of New Orleans's Bourbon and Royal Streets, playing
music and partying wherever people gathered. His independent,
eclectic songwriting style, obscure cover songs, the love of
the sailing the ocean, intermingled with stories of slightly
shady Caribbean adventures with modern day buccaneers and his
misspent youth in the hills of Eastern Kentucky, always promises
an evening of enjoyable times, plenty of smiles and walks down
memory lane.
Saturday, October
25, 8pm
The Conjugal Visitors
Eugene-based Americana Jug Band
The Rev. Jesse rocks the mandolin and screams himself into a trance, Papa String plays Astralachian guitar, Matt Highland blows soulful harp, Brien slaps the dog-house bass, living legend "Professor Horsehair"-Chip Cohen blows everybody's mind with his otherworldly fiddling, while Jobi plays washboard and percussion when he's not picking up wild fires or fighting off wild women. (scratch that, reverse it)
Visit Conjugal Visitors music at www.MySpace.com/conjugalvisitors
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Saturday, October
18, 9pm
Santino Cadiz, Roots/Reggae/Hip
Hop!
Teaching himself guitar, Santino began to develop his musical endeavour early on with rhythmic rasta undertones and subltle folkish nuances. Moving to the Oregon coast inspired Santion to produce and release his first solo CD "Rise Up and Walk" an eclectic mix of reggae, Hip hop, jazz and R&B. "I was able to take all of the styles of music that influence me in personal way and compose a collection of songs, that I am really proud of...truly a peek into my soul". Hear Santino's music at www.MySpace.com/SantinoCadiz
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
October 4
***FireWorks Closed Tonight for a Private Party***
Please dine with us on Friday or Sunday evening this weekend...our appologies, dear patrons, but a private party has booked the entire restaurant for the whole evening!
And if you're interested in booking your own party here, just drop us a line through the FireWorks Catering page.
The holiday season is just around the
corner - why not book your office or department party at FireWorks?
For details call
(541)754-6958.
Friday,
October 3, 8pm
Paul Prince,
Zimbabwean & Hawaiian World Beat
Hawaiian born Paul Prince is a colorfully virtuosic guitarist and composer, charting a course of adventure in the calm waters between Africa and Hawaii. Paul has explored some of the more exciting aspects of the instrument on his breakthrough CD Ocean Bells, detailing new acoustic sounds with all forms of harmonics in a lively counterpoint with independent bass and melodies.
Paul plays Hawaiian slack-key and his own Zimbabwean mbira guitar pieces. One of the unique aspects of Prince's multi-part guitar inventions is his ability to weave harmonics into the complex rhythmic texture of the music. In the introduction to the track "Kona Ragtime," he makes his instrument sound like a ringing pedal steel guitar before jumping into a tuneful Hawaiian rag that features joyful melodic playing, alternating bass and rich island harmonies.
On the improvisation "Dakar Guitar," Prince coaxes highly rhythmic, percussive melodies in harmonics from his guitar as the piece builds in intensity and complexity to a warp speed and helical climax.
Hear Paul Prince at www.PaulPrince.com
*
No Webcast Tonight * Dinner reservations
recommended: call
(541)754-6958
Thursday,
October 2, 8pm
TAARKA
House Concert, Improvisation and Grooves for Strings
Friday,
October 3,10-12am
TAARKA
2-Hour Intensive
String Workshop
Portland's TAARKA features the husband and wife team of classically-trained renegade violin wizardess Enion Pelta-Tiller and musical polyglot and virtuosic mandolinist/composer David Tiller. Plus a rotating cast of bass and percussion.
The bandleaders and composers, David and Enion Tiller, are also the lead instrumental team of THAMUSEMEANT, a well-traveled, progressive, "anti-folk" band which has spent much time in the mountainous spine of the U.S. as well as in the western and northwestern regions where TAARKA has put in much legwork.
Praise
for TAARKA: "The new incarnation of Taarka plays David Tiller
and Enion Pelta-Tiller's eclectic compositions. The sound, heavy
on creative percussion, draws from a dizzying array of folk music
traditions, including Celtic, bluegrass, Indian music, and jazz.
Basically, Taarka's music is as apt to mesmerize as it is to
prompt unadulterated dancefloor-wrecking boogying." - The
Source (Bend)
Hear Taarka at www.myspace.com/taarka
Tuesday,
September 30, 7pm
William
Pint and Felicia Dale
Music and Myth from the Sea
"William Pint and Felicia Dale rank among North America's most exciting interpreters of music based in the traditions of the British Isles and France... unconventional but spine-tingling... unique and mesmerizing " - Dirty Linen
That's right, maritime music, nautical music - the music of the sea. Whether they be contemporary songs with the sea as a theme or shanties, (or chanties, if you prefer) the traditional work songs sung aboard the tall ships to organize the labor of the crew. Those crews were English, Irish, German, French, from the West Indies, The United States and other sea going nations, but the music itself was inspired by the oceans that link all these places together and cover two thirds of our planet. We take all of this as a source of inspiration for our music - giving it our own spin with guitar, hurdy-gurdy, mandolin and other exotic sounds. The result is an unusually energetic and exciting approach to folk music.
You can hear their music at www.myspace.com/williampintfeliciadale
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
September 27, 9pm
The Reggae Rockers with Santino
Cadiz
Reggae Rockers got their start in the Corvallis underground music scenes of the Random House and La Casa de Freedom. Their first coming together was in opening up the May Day Festival, 2007, and after a year of practice and meditation, Reggae Rockers have prepared their music to unite the masses in 2008. Our music is unique in our blend of roots reggae, classic rock, dub and dancehall. It is played by a group of friends who live and breath music, and who hope to contribute to the good vibrations of the world by doing so. Hear the Reggae Rockers at www.myspace.com/jersreggaerockers
Teaching himself guitar, Santino began to develop his musical endeavour early on with rhythmic rasta undertones and subltle folkish nuances. His solo CD "Rise Up and Walk" is an eclectic mix of reggae, Hip hop, jazz and R&B. "I was able to take all of the styles of music that influence me in personal way and compose a collection of songs, that I am really proud of...truly a peek into my soul". Hear Santino's music at www.MySpace.com/SantinoCadiz
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Sunday,
September 28, 8pm
Paper Scissors
Hot Blues from the Frozen North
on tour from Alaska
A small town band that started as the backing band for a Burlesque show, Paper Scissors is now on tour through the Northwest generating excitement and shaking hips wherever they go. Not content to stay rooted in the indie rock category (whatever that means in this day and age) the band drifts into dance rhythms, folk and new wave sounds.
Paper Scissors consists of: Craig Brookes on Guitar and Vocals, Ryan Schmidt on drums and Isaac Paris on keyboards, accordion, bass and theremin. These boys know how to get people to dance and they also revel in tender moments with jazzy progressions and introspective lyrics.
Paper Scissors have been winning fans of all ages by playing small dive bars, large festivals, and even on the street. Their sound has been compared to that of the Black Keys and Spiritualized and they have had the privilege to open for Tim Easton, The Mountain Goats and Matisyahu. Hear their tunes and see their relentless touring schedule at myspace.com/paperscissorsalaska
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Tuesday,
September 23, 6-10pm
Oaxacan
Benefit Dinner and Latin Dance Party
A Benefit for "La Vida Nueva" Zapotec Women's Weaving
Collective
Weavings on display to
FireWorks throughout September 2008
6:00pm - Oaxacan Benefit Dinner, $25
per person
7:30pm - Talk by Pastora, president of La Vida Nueva
8:00pm - Latin Dance Party, $5-10 donation requested for La Vida
Nueva
"La Vida Nueva" is a women's weaving cooperative from the Zapotec community of Teotitlan del Valle, in Mexico's southern state of Oaxaca. This traditional indigenous community is known world wide for its long line of weavers. Patterns, techniques, tools and the "habit" of weaving have been passed down through the generations
This special evening will benefit La Vida Nueva, with an authentic Oaxacan dinner followed by a lively Latin dance party with Madera. Madera sings the best-loved songs of Latin America, bringing the poetic lyrics and lovely melodies of "Nueva Trova" to Oregon. Madera's musicans hail from Central, South, and North America: Alex Contreras, Ina Hecker, Laurie Childers, Tito Amaya, and El Vikeno.
Sunday,
September 14, 7pm
Rick &
Lavinia Ross, Americana Rhythm & Blues
Rick Ross has absorbed guitar styles ranging from finger-picked country blues, bluegrass, and traditional and contemporary folk music. His eclectic repertoire includes many traditional and jazz-era tunes, as well as originals.
Lavinia's beautiful & delicate voice
draws in her audience as she paints intimate, emotional portraits
and surreal vistas. Her accomplished finger-style picking on
6- and 12-string guitars and adventurous use of alternative tunings
perfectly compliment her lovely vocals. Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958.
Sunday,
September 7, 7pm
Fruition
String Band, Feel Good Folkin' Soul
Are you coming to Fruition? This SE Portland band sounds like: Mama's home cookin' through a phonograph, this is the folkin'soul string band for the heart, head and heels. How to describe their genre? "bluegrassreggaefunksoulbluesindielovelovelove ya dearly."
Kellen Asebroek - guitar,
mandolin, vocals
Keith Simon - upright bass
Mimi Naja - banjo, mandolin, guitar, vocals
Jay Cobb Anderson - guitar, harmonica, vocals
Oh, yeah, visit Fruition online at www.myspace.com/fruitionstringband
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
September 6, 8pm
Deb O'Conner
on Hammered Dulcimer
Uplifting Traditional & Original Music
Debo channels spirit energy into her hammered dulcimer compositions inspiring the soul and tickling the intellect! Visit Debo's band page online at www.myspace.com/leafhoppers
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Friday,
September 5, 8pm
River Rocks,
Folk-Rock-Jazz Ensemble
River Rocks is an ensemble of four musicians Laurie Childers (vocals, keyboard, guitar), Mina Carson (vocals, guitar, mandolin), George Beekman (percussion) and Bill Veley (bass) who play "songs with words that matter." Playing both originals and covers, their songs combine lyrical expression with the gentle beauty of harmony. Both Laurie and Mina write songs with a strong social conscience and the aim of healing. Upbeat covers, including enlightened lounge music, round out the sets. With influences of folk, rock, and jazz, it's hard to pigeonhole the chord structures or the instrumentation but difficult subjects are given a hopeful, sometimes humorous, voice.
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Thursday, September
4, 8pm
Spoonshine,
Americana String Band
on tour from Anacortes, Washington
Though
you won't hear a song played in a purely traditional manner,
Spoonshine still holds on to tradition. It is a tradition of
the new, and hopes to bring people together with singing, dancing,
and feeling good about life. Spoonshine has been creating and
refining their handcrafted original music for nearly ten years
to the delight of club and festival audiences up and down the
west coast.
Inspired by Northwest nature, history and culture together with American and World music traditions, they dazzle music-lovers with their energy, virtuosity and artful compositions. Their brand of Americana, along with a globe-spanning eclectic mix of original music is unclassifiable within conventional genres. Vocal harmonies, mandolin, guitar, keys, woodwind, fiddle, stand-up bass and assorted percussion combine to make-up this homegrown quartet's sound.
To hear samples of Spoonshine music,
visit www.myspace.com/spoonshine
Friday,
August 29, 8pm
Adam Scramstad,
Blues Guitar & Vocals
Adam Scramstad is a strong fingerstyle Blues performer with intricate and exciting guitar skills. He recently finished recording his solo album entitled "No Sun Around Blues", produced by Blues guitar legend Terry Robb. Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958. Visit Adam on www.MySpace.com/AdamScramstad
Adam also offers some
excellent guitar instruction in playing the blues. Contact
Ocean if
you'd like more info and how to study with Adam!
Saturday,
August 30, 8pm
The Bad
Mitten Orchestre Returns!
Folk Cabaret Bluegrass
This raukous Eugene all-woman band consists of Aima: vocals, accordion, ukulele, banjo, beer spilling; Ila: vocals, guitar, crazy opera sounds; Sarah: cello, kazoo, vocals, really loud laughing; Darling Clementine: ukulele, saw, vocals, fashion sense; Morgan: violin, banjo, screamin and stompin; Virginia: upright bass, texan; Brien: upright bass, testosterone. Read their Eugene Weekly Review
Visit Bad Mitten music at www.MySpace.com/badmittenmusic
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Sunday, August 31,
7pm
Primal
Tones
Tyler Spencer Didjeridu
"Playing and making Didjeridu is what I do. It's a necessary creative and spirtual outlet for me. When I was 15, I found a sound I'd never heard before, but I somehow new it mattered. Through the serendipity of teenage boredom and a discarded metal tube in my parents basement, sea change occured. I shared the discovery with my Dad and I first learned of the Didjeridu. Information and resources where scarce (a time that precluded internet popularity). I then embarked on a solo quest of exploration and self-discovery.
"Over the last 14 years, I've enjoyed the experiences of performing solo, busking, playing in bands and exploring a variety of musical generes. I've been privileged to have traveled the world and met some amazing friends, elders, musicians, teachers (not the least of which, Djalu Gurruwiwi) and students who have inspired me in many ways. I'm very thankful for this. The music and photos on this page is the accumulation my experiences."
Tyler
makes beautiful didjeridus out of agave and hardwoods. To see
his craft and hear Tyler play the didj, visit Tyler's websites
at www.primaltones.com
and www.myspace.com/primaltones
Monday,
September 1, 7pm
Colby Stead,
Singer Songwriter
Those who have been lucky enough to attend a live concert by Colby Stead know that it is always an emotional and fulfilling experience, something not to be missed. He has a completely unique and honest style, a message that has been whole-heartedly embraced by all types of people from his performances in homes and venues across the United States. Colby's ideas and performances are brilliantly and carefully crafted. His shows are filled with humor and emotion, reality and compassion. Colby is extremely prolific and creative, a truly original and authentic voice.
To hear samples of Colby Stead's music from his CD, "No", or to access more information about Colby Stead please visit www.colbystead.com
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Tuesday, September 2, 8pm
Blind Pilot
with Caught in Motion
on
tour by bicycle
from Bellingham to San Diego!
Portland's Blind
Pilot: Israel and Ryan have played with lots of Portland
musicians and we consider all of them a part of our band. Most
of them have amazing musical projects of their own. To name just
a few: Kati, Luke, Shawn, Joel, Ian, Dave, Andy, Bret, Kristine...
Blind Pilot will be stopping
at FireWorks on their 1400
mile bike tour. Watch their cool music video below, and you
can also hear Blind Pilot at www.myspace.com/goblindpilot
Caught in Motion consists of co-founders
Banah Graf and Sam Krulewitch bore out a sound for their debut
LP 'On The Edge of a Dream' more complete than either could manage
alone: haunting atmospherics, poignant melodies, and an obsessive
attention to detail fill each song to the breaking point between
beauty and anxiety. Caught in Motion's live act is executed with
the same perfectionist precision the band was founded on, all
the while fueling the audience with a stark honesty. Hear Caught
in Motion online at myspace.com/caughtinmotion
Southtown Street
Party Headliner
7pm: Eleven
Eyes, Hip Hop Funk Jazz
Dance, trance, funk, world,
and trip-hop beats meet top-class jazz musicianship. Eleven
Eyes is a versatile sonic package melding trumpet, sax,
vocals, turntables, computers, guitar, bass, and drums with high
energy improvisation, deep grooves, and unexpected textures.
"Not since the Cherry Poppin' Daddies and Floater has such as exciting, young, talented and unique band emerged from Oregon's fertile Willamette Valley. Eleven Eyes is a neo-psychedelic jazz septet with an excess of instrumental aptitude and creative sense." (The Source; Bend, OR)
"It's impossible to categorize Eugene's Eleven Eyes. Like Critters Buggin, the sextet mixes free-form jazz with modern grooves, creating a dizzying and intoxicating blend of music that will tickle your brain while it moves your tush. Percussion, horns, keyboards, samples, bass, guitar and various embellishments collide rather cosmically, making for a genuinely unique auditory experience that should be experienced in the flesh." (Portland Tribune)
''Eleven Eyes offers an instantly accessible brand of jazz, one that bobs with funk and tinges of bossa nova. Captured on two albums, "Depth Perception" and "Scope," the group mixes turntablism and other modern electronic instrumentation with more traditional jazz elements from trumpeter Tim McLaughlin and saxophonist Matt Calkins. The result is a trip through the experimental jazz spectrum, keeping within parameters that mainstream audiences can appreciate." (Oregonian A&E)
Tim McLaughlin - trumpet, efx, laptop, samples,
keys, beat programming, percussion
Matt Calkins - sax, efx, percussion
Dave Trenkel - bass, laptop, keys, programming
Mike Pardew - guitar
Monk Metz - emcee
Sam Berrett - drums
Turntable Enabler - turntables and efx
Visit Eleven Eyes on MySpace at www.MySpace.com/ElevenEyes
Southtown Street Party
Headliner
9pm: Lost
Tortoise, Garage Funk Rock
Closing the party will be Corvallis rising band Lost Tortoise,
"the band no one saw coming". Dance to Lost Tortoise's
original Blues, Funk, Garage and good old Rock & Roll!
Linden
Wood - Lead Guitar
Rawley "Dr. Rockso" Greene - Guitar
C-Ron Denning - Keys
Chad Fell - Bass
"Da'utch Boy" Nate Stout - Drums
Kalvin Ellis - Vocals
Visit Lost Tortoise on MySpace at www.MySpace.com/losttortus
Southtown
FreeStyle Jam Session
Local jam band provides a backdrop for this free style session of jazz, funk, reggae, spoken word, drumming, wherever the spirit flows! Late night beverage and food specials available.
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Sunday,
August 17, 6pm
Wild Hog
in the Woods String Band
Enjoy an evening of old-time, swing, sleaze-jazz, ragtime, blues and tin-pan alley tunes played with honest verve and gusto. The sheer fun that these guys have playing the tunes that they love is infectious. Their motto, "Nobody leaves without a grin" keeps people coming back for more. They play an armada of fine instruments with fresh abandonment true to their music. Hear music by Wild Hogs at www.myspace.com/wildhoginthewoods
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Thursday,
August 14, 8pm
Andy Frasco,
Blues Singer-Songwriter
Singer. Songwriter. Piano Man? You would never know Andy Frasco is in his early twenties when listening to his wildly original, yet easily relatable, soulful, piano blues pop music. Drawing inspiration from such legends as Van Morrison and Billy Joel and being compared to the likes of Ben Folds, Frasco writes and sings with a sincere maturity and an open minded approach to the ever changing pop music scenery.
Hailing from the West San Fernando Valley in
southern California, Andy Frasco began singing and playing piano
in his junior year at El Camino Real High School. With a "take
no prisoners" approach to the music industry, Frasco jumped
into the scene, releasing his first EP, "When Fairy Tales
Become Tragic Endings" recorded at Zen Seven Studios in
Encino, CA. Gaining local praise and a small but die-hard fan
base, the 17 year old logged his first tour in the summer of
2004, encompassing 34 of the 50 states. Visit Andy Frasco at
www.myspace.com/andyfrasco
Andy's gig at FireWorks is part of the "Growth and Progress" benefit concert tour sposored by the VH1 Save the Music Foundation dedicated to restoring music education in America's plublic schools.
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Wednesday, August 13, 8pm
Deadwood
Revival, Newgrass Northwest!
OK, they couldn't get enough of South Corvallis after the last Southtown Street Party! So Deadwood Revival is coming back to FireWorks Restaurant for another house concert. This amazing Northwest "newgrass" band features banjo, guitar and vocal harmonies not to be missed. Invite all your friends to come enjoy the show.
"Old-time and folk sensibilities
are forged into evocative new world music. Deadwood Revival isn't
trying to make something out of nothing. Rather, they're on the
leading edge of the resurgence and revitalized interest in old-time
music. They're infusing healthy vigor, gusto, and enthusiasm
into their new presentation of 'old world' inspired music...."
Joe Ross - Bluegrass Now (Feb, 2007)
Friday,
August 8, 8:30pm
Poitín
and Stout, Raucous Irish Jam
Poitín and Stout formed to fill the void of raucous Irish music in Corvallis. Drawing their influences from the likes of the Pogues, Flogging Molly, Dubliners, Wolfe Tones, and Dropkick Murphys, Poitín and Stout play traditional Irish standards with a refreshing passion and energy. Even the soberest in the audience will be stomping their feet and shouting along with each rousing chorus. You'll forget that St. Patrick's Day comes but once a year. Visit Poitin & Stout at www.myspace.com/poitinandstout
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
August 16, 8pm
Jamie Bennett,
Blues Guitar & Vocals
Singing as been Jamie's
passion long before it became a profession. It's what connects
inner and outer worlds, taps the deepest feelings and most cherished
memories. Performing with emotion and enthusiasm is Jamie's trademark.
Enjoy and evening of sultry and sassy jazz! Dinner reservations
are recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Friday,
August 1, 8pm
William
Pint and Felicia Dale
Music and Myth from the Sea
"William Pint and Felicia Dale rank among North America's most exciting interpreters of music based in the traditions of the British Isles and France... unconventional but spine-tingling... unique and mesmerizing " - Dirty Linen
That's right, maritime music, nautical music - the music of the sea. Whether they be contemporary songs with the sea as a theme or shanties, (or chanties, if you prefer) the traditional work songs sung aboard the tall ships to organize the labor of the crew. Those crews were English, Irish, German, French, from the West Indies, The United States and other sea going nations, but the music itself was inspired by the oceans that link all these places together and cover two thirds of our planet. We take all of this as a source of inspiration for our music - giving it our own spin with guitar, hurdy-gurdy, mandolin and other exotic sounds. The result is an unusually energetic and exciting approach to folk music.
You can hear their music at www.myspace.com/williampintfeliciadale
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner
reservations recommended: call
(541)754-6958.
Thursday, July 31, 9pm
The Goat
Family, San Francisco Jug Band
The Goat Family began life as jug band root music stompathon, but now grows in many directions - from Leadbelly to Led Zeppelin, from Son House to Cher. We're also known to peel off a film now and then and sometimes they show up in the live show.
"Unstopperable" is our first cd and our second is nearly out the door. Invite us in - we'll wipe our shoes off and maybe never leave! We're rolling films over at the Tube www.youtube.com/tpovey plus a rare performance video Patch of Blue. You can hear Goat Family music at www.myspace.com/thegoatfamily
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Saturday, July 26,
9pm
Future
Roots, Folk-Rock-Reggae-Jam
Future Roots grew out of the Oregon State University scene - lots of hanging around and jamming in the Random House basement. Their music combines strong basslines, rhythmic guitar and banjo, soaring saxaphone, and driving percussion with soulful vocal harmonizing on original songs, as well as covers of Reggae and Jam tunes. Hear the band at www.myspace.com/futureroots
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner
reservations recommended: call
(541)754-6958.
Tuesday,
July 22, 5:30-8:30pm
Young Professionals
of Corvallis Monthly Mixer
with Live R&B by Jenna Summer Smith
Young
Professionals of Corvallis
meets every month at a local hot spot. There will be no sales
pitches and no boring seminars. This will be a time to meet other
young professionals that are interested in meeting new people
and furthering their careers.
From the YPOC Website, "How old is young? We don't really care, but if you are active and passionate about business then you should swing by for a drink or two! There is no membership fee of any sort. This is just social. There is no structured format for these events. Come as you are and enjoy."
Hear Jenna's music at www.MySpace.com/JennaSummerSmith
Saturday,
July 19, 8pm
Nathan
& Kailyn
Americana Folk Blues
Folk blues on keyboard & guitar, Southtown Open Mic favorites Nathan & Kailyn are talented singer songwriters from the East recently landed in Oregon. Come out an enjoy their debut performance at FireWorks!
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Friday, July 18, 8pm
Al Rivers
& the Shade Tree Mechanics
Acoustic Amercana Blues
"Aw yeah, this is blues the way we like it. Rain fall. Tree shakin'. Likin' yo' peaches. Truck broke. Good gal gone. Al Rivers walks the same old rode, but utterly without pretension or artifice. He has a great, scraping voice and a nimble, dirty way with the guitar." - Victory Music Review, Tacoma, WA 2006. Hear Al's music on www.MySpace.com/AlRiversBlues
Al Rivers, Tim Danforth, and Peter Newman are the Shade Tree Mechanics, a trio of long time friends who bring a variety of musical influences including country blues, bluegrass, rock and gospel, for a sound best described as acoustic Americana.
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Friday,
July 4, 6-8pm
(ending early to watch the fireworks!)
Vou
Vivendo, Brazilian Folk Jazz
Duo Vou Vivendo is comprised of guitarist
Jeremy Winkler, and woodwinds aficionado Stuart Curtis. Jeremy
has played with numerous groups including his rock band Groove in Blue and the
Vou Vivendo quartet . He has also played with the virtuoso
saxophonist Dr. Tom Bergeron.
Duo Vou Vivendo will be playing primarily 'choros,' and upbeat
Brazilian folk music that is somehow both energetic and laid
back. To get a taste, visit www.myspace.com/vouvivendo
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
August 23, 8pm
Gumbo,
Olde Time Jazz & Music Americana
Dance to raucous vintage New Orleans music by Corvallis' Creole band Gumbo, consisting of Joe Casprowiak on Clarinet, Banjo, Flute & Vocals, Sid Beam on Guitar & Vocals, David Fournier on Bass & Vocals. Visit Gumbo at www.GumboBand.biz
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner
reservations recommended: call
(541)754-6958.
Saturday,
June 28, 9pm
Santino
Cadiz, Roots Rock Reggae
Self teaching himself guitar, Santino began to develop his musical endeavour early on with rhythmic rasta undertones and subltle folkish nuances. Moving to the Oregon coast inspired Santion to produce and release his first solo CD "Rise Up and Walk" an eclectic mix of reggae, Hip hop, jazz and R&B. "I was able to take all of the styles of music that influence me in personal way and compose a collection of songs, that I am really proud of...truly a peek into my soul". Hear Santino's music at www.MySpace.com/SantinoCadiz
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Thursday, June 26,
9pm
Judgement
Day, Classical Metal Band
"THERE ARE NO GUITARS IN JUDGEMENT DAY."
Touring the Northwest, this San Francisco band asked Ocean for a gig at FireWorks. Being a fan of ELO since the earliest days of his rock n' roll career, he couldn't resist a band with ELECTRIC CELLO (and violin). Classical rockers, come to this show, you will be impressed! You can preview Judgement Day at www.myspace.com/stringmetal
"One of the best live
acts we've witnessed in the past year ... a bold fusion of classical
music and rock music, that somehow managed not to be derivative
towards either influence."
- Mushroom Stamp Productions
"Violin, cello and drums
playing brutal metal with crunchy distorted riffs. No Guitars."
- Ryan Myashiro, Amoeba Music: Best of 2004
"Dark Opus is a technically
impressive, highly amusing, and genuinely righteous shredfest
so convincing the liner notes are compelled to include the note
THERE ARE NO GUITARS ON THIS ALBUM."
- Rob Harvilla, East Bay Express
Dinner reservations recommended: call (541)754-6958.
Sunday,
June 22, 6-9pm Dinner Show
Jamie Bennett
with Suzannah Doyle
In her own words, Jamie says "music is what connects my inner and outer worlds, and allows me to tap my deepest feelings, a love affair has taken me on a fascinating musical path from European cathedrals to nightclubs, from headlining on stage in Nevada to performing solo with classical orchestras, and from backing up Paul Anka to doing the Star Spangled Banner on national television...twice! Now I choose to focus on what I love best, venues where I can connect with an audience and perform my versions of classical jazz, sultry standards, Broadway tunes, blues, and pop."
Suzannah Doyle works, plays, and performs with and for groups of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to classrooms, concert halls and major whoop-ti-dos. She played by invitation at the White House in Washington, DC, and appears in concert and on numerous albums with musicians from smooth jazz to Indie pop and rock genres. You can visit Suz and Jaimie at www.suzdoyle.com/performing/history/
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner
reservations are advised: call (541)754-6958.
Friday,
June 20, 9pm
The People's
Front
Evolutionary Reggae Funk
Vibrant vocals with a solid groove. Come celebrate the summer solstice with your new local reggae band. You can visit the Peoples Front at www.myspace.com/thepeoplesfrontofcorvallis
Friday,
June 6, 7pm
Coin of the Realm with Traditional Fiddle Champion Zach Konowalchuk
Coin of the Realm plays lively & lovely international music on violin, guitar, bass, and percussion. Their music is unique, bringing together elements of old world cultures in a dynamic sound that caters to audiences of all ages. Whether your taste is for Eastern European gypsy melodies, Greek ballads, or Celtic airs, there is sure to be something here that will please you. To hear samples of their music, visit Coin of the Realm at www.MySpace.com/CoinoftheRealm
$5 donation requested for the band. Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Thursday,
May 29, 9pm
Visual
Tonic Rhythm & Dance Show
Southtown rocks to this hot local performance art troupe! Late night food & drink specials available.
Dinner reservations advised, call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
May 17
Celtic
Fusion with the Nettles
The Nettles have played Irish and Oldtime music in the Willamette Valley for over a decade with tours from Seattle to South Carolina. The core of The Nettles is the duo of Laura Brophy on fiddle and Kevin Johnsrude on guitar. Laura and Kevin have developed a "folkadelic" style of traditional music playing that is unique among traditional musicians.
The Nettles will be joined this evening by award-winning Indian tabla player Ankush Vimawala. Ankush Vimawala has been studying the tabla since the age of six and holds a BA in tabla. Ankush has won many awards for his playing and has performed on All-India Radio. Ankush also teaches tabla.
For more info and samples
of Nettles music visit www.TheNettles.com Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958.
Mother's
Day Dinner Show
Sunday, May 11, 6-9pm
Swing Habit,
Jazz Favorites from the 30's & 40's
Before there was rock and roll, swing
was the thing. Swing Habit plays a mix of country swing, big
band jazz, jump blues and gypsy jazz. With Dave Thormahlen on
mandolin, Michael Proctor on Bass and Steve Moore on guitar,
these guys are in the habit of infusing jazz standards with a
danceable rhythmic exuberance. Reservations
for Mother's Day Brunch and Dinner are highly advised, call (541)754-6958.
Mother's
Day Brunch
Sunday, May 11, 10am - 2:30pm
John Maddy
plays Ragtime, Jazz and Classical Piano
Saturday,
May 3
Richardson
Jazz Project
Enjoy an evening of classic instrumental jazz by one of Eugene's finest trios, with Fred Wesley on Sax, Paul Saffell on Drums and Eric Richardson on Bass.
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
April 26
The Jones
Brothers' School of Cool
Local duo and founding members of School of Cool, the Jones brothers (Brian and Mike) are sure to entertain with their brand of R & B and stage schtick. Join them for an evening of wonderment and enchantment. This is fun, danceable music.
Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Sunday,
April 20, 6pm
Three Fingered
Jack Celtic Dance Band
Irish pub sessions and American barn dances meet at the crossroads and find a new home in the rich interplay of this emerging local band. With Shari Ame's fiddle and voice, Bruce Marbin's guitar and bouzouki, Beth Brown on cello, and Laureen Urey on bodhran, this band is not to be missed.
Sunday,
April 20, 2-4pm
Earth Day
2008 Reception and Gallery Opening
Celebrating the Art of Alan Kapuler
FireWorks is excited to exhibit the work of Alan Kapuler, cultural visionary and icon of the organic movement. On display from April 1 to Mid-May 2008, Kapuler's works in acrylic provide a fascinating journey into architypal symbology drawn in great part from his immersion in the local Corvallis community. Many works include Kapuler's family, musicians and friends. Click here to preview the show...
The
reception will feature live music by Jenna Summer Smith and finger
foods by Chef Intaba. Kapuler will discuss his work. House-infused
cocktails, local wines and craft ales will be available from
FireWorks bar.
Saturday,
April 5
Jenna Summer
Smith with Melanie Reid, Americana Rhythm & Blues
Jenna Summer Smith (youngest daughter of Michael "Smitty" Smith, original drummer for the 60's band "Paul Revere & the Raiders") and Melanie Reid are combining their talents for a special night at Fireworks! Jenna's powerful vocal range and captivating musical style rock the house with her own crowd-rousing sing-alongs, brazen "Janice-Joplin-style" blues and sweet tunes reminiscent of Joni Mitchell. A Corvallis native, Melanie's sweet and soulful voice expresses her unique musical style, woven from a wide variety of influences, experiences and travels. Her songs may take the listener on a journey they won't soon forget! Visit Jenna on www.MySpace.com/JennaSummerSmith
Friday,
April 4
Thomas
Kramer Blues Guitar & Vocals
Thomas Kramer has been described as smooth folk and blues guitar with hints of country twang, heavily influenced by the likes of Eric Clapton, Johnny Cash's American albums, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. This is complimented by a contemporary vocal style flooded with imagery intensive lyrics
Thomas is currently in the process of putting the finishing touches on his recorded debut, "From The Breadbasket," You can preview his music at www.myspace.com/thomaskramerband
Tuesday March 25 9pm
Soul·Funk·Reggae Benefit Dance Party!
Naomi and the Courteous Rudeboys
If you're not quite ready to let loose and love, then maybe you should refrain from entering the world of Naomi and The Courteous Rudeboys. They put funk in your pocket, dub in your soul and femme fatale vocals in your ears. From Santa Cruz, CA, this quintet is fun, quirky and furiously dedicated to throwing a good party.
With a voice that is strong but kind, commanding but feminine, Naomi offers up a repertoire of sweet, sassy funk and soul originals, with lyrical themes that touch on love, friendship, acceptance and self-expression.
For a band that has been together for only two years, NCR has racked up some mileage in their bio-fueled bus. Highlights include performances at Earthdance & High Sierra Music Festival. Anyone that has seen them live will tell you that NCR has a whole lotta heart and soul. With a variety of danceable songs, there's something for everyone.
Their debut LP, Beautiful Beings, released in 2007, was recorded at the legendary Hyde Street Studios in San Francisco. The album's soul hit, 'Love Song', features Oakland-based gospel trio, the Stovall Sisters. Through grass-roots efforts, Naomi's songs are featured on independent radio stations WORLD-wide.
"It's a stone cold heart that can resist
the soul-soothing grooves, meditative funk and 'love heals' missive
of Naomi and The Courteous Rudeboys. Beautiful
Beings is a triumphant amalgam of funk and soul, driven
by a tight-knit instrumental ensemble replete with sexy bass
lines and full-bodied percussion, and buoyed by the equal parts
sass and sincerity of Naomi's agile vocals." - Santa Cruz
Good Times Weekly
There will be a $5 Cover for the show. FireWorks will donate
a portion of the evening's sales to the Corvallis
Environmental Center. Visit the band on MySpace at www.MySpace.com/naomiandthecourteousrudeboys
Monday,
March 17, 6-9pm
St. Patrick's Day Party with Three Fingered Jack
Contra-dances and Irish pub sessions meet, mingle,
and find a new home in the rich interplay of this emerging local
band. Shari Ame's fine fiddling, Bruce Marbin's subtle and varied
guitar and bouzouki, and Beth Brown's soulful and driving cello
make this trio something not to be missed.
FireWorks' Resident Irish Cook Pete McManus will offer up some special traditional
Irish fare. Be sure to wear green! Dinner reservations advised:
call (541)754-6958.
Thursday,
March 13
Jeanna
Summer Smith, Americana Rhythm & Blues
8pm Solo; 9:30 pm Full Band
Jenna Summer Smith (youngest daughter of Michael "Smitty" Smith, original drummer for the 60's band "Paul Revere & the Raiders") offer a special performance at Fireworks! Jenna's powerful vocal range and captivating musical style rock the house with her own crowd-rousing sing-alongs, brazen "Janice-Joplin-style" blues and sweet tunes reminiscent of Joni Mitchell. Visit Jenna on www.MySpace.com/JennaSummerSmith
Saturday,
February 23
Celtic
Fusion with the Nettles
The Nettles have played Irish and Oldtime music in the Willamette Valley for over a decade with tours from Seattle to South Carolina. The core of The Nettles is the duo of Laura Brophy on fiddle and Kevin Johnsrude on guitar. Laura and Kevin have developed a "folkadelic" style of traditional music playing that is unique among traditional musicians.
The Nettles will be joined this evening by award-winning Indian tabla player Ankush Vimawala. Ankush Vimawala has been studying the tabla since the age of six and holds a BA in tabla. Ankush has won many awards for his playing and has performed on All-India Radio. Ankush also teaches tabla.
For more info and samples
of Nettles music visit www.TheNettles.com Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958.
Saturday,
February 16
Brassfield
Grandstaff Jazz Duo
Since first playing together in 1971, Neal and Ray have been involved in numerous musical adventures, performing as a duo as well as in larger ensembles from 12 to 15 musicians. They are well known for their interpretations of many jazz standards and pop tunes. Neal started the jazz improvisation program at OSU and continues to teach there. Both Ray and Neal have been involved in many CD projects including some that are being used in the jazz program at OSU. Their duo presentation consists of Ray Brassfield on upright bass and Neal Grandstaff on guitar.
Friday,
February 1
Shari Ame
& Friends, Traditional Fiddle & Ballads
The old tunes, the old stories, the roots of the Old World sprouting anew in our rainy valley. Come lend an ear, tap a toe and join in chorus with local fiddler and traditional ballad singer Shari Ame and friends for an exploration of the oral music traditions of the working peoples of Scotland, Ireland, England and North America. Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958.
Shari also offers outstanding
fiddle lessons. Contact Ocean if you'd like more info and how to study with
Shari!
Saturday,
January 26
Americana
Folk & Blues with Rick & Lavinia Ross
Rick Ross has absorbed guitar styles ranging from finger-picked country blues, bluegrass, and traditional and contemporary folk music. His eclectic repertoire includes many traditional and jazz-era tunes, as well as originals.
Lavinia's beautiful & delicate voice
draws in her audience as she paints intimate, emotional portraits
and surreal vistas. Her accomplished finger-style picking on
6- and 12-string guitars and adventurous use of alternative tunings
perfectly compliment her lovely vocals. Dinner reservations advised: call (541)754-6958.