After coming to Las Vegas for the 2014 Latin Grammy's, Allison finally makes a return to the Sin City and they are scheduled to play at the Bunkhouse Saloon. After touring for a bit and even doing a "Sold Out" show in El Paso, it is  almost time for Vegas to experience the energy of Allison. 

Allison formed in 2002 and has maintained a steady career throughout the years, including five albums and several tours. The band is made up of Erik Canales (lead singer/guitar), Alfie Perstacegi (bass/backing vocals), "Fear" Jarquin (lead guitar) and Diego Stommel (drums). Luckily, I got to talk to Erik the other day. Being that they are about to start another leg of the U.S tour, I asked Erik if the band had a particular superstition or "thing" they did before shows to which he responded with exercise and meditation. "It's about being thankful for the opportunity of being on-stage and being able to do this." Considering that they have been doing this for a while, I followed up by asking "what has been the best thing that a career in music had left you?"

"Personal construction. Being able to try so many things, being to be able to eat so many things, and seeing new places. Creating new things." Erik answered this and casually added that he is not only a musician, but a chef. 

In regards to the evolution of the band, when Allison started back in the day they had a more punk- rock sound and now they have "heavier" sound. I asked how he would would describe this maturity in sound and he said that they used to listen o a lot of punk-rock as teenagers but lately they have been into "heavier" music. Erick then went into how this transition has reflected on the new album. They hope that old fans of Allison and new ones tune into this new project.

"We want to make more sincere music. We want to take off the mask per se and be real. We are passionate. I just left a relationship and I have a lot to write about." He added that being older he realized that  heartbreak is still hurtful, but it leaves something in return.

As a final thought he added that he is thank full for sixteen years making music. Allison is a band that leaves their heart and soul on stage. "We want this to be nostalgic and full of love." There is no doubt about that.


Check out the dates below:

Greetings to all those reading. Whale House is mainly made up of Clayton Brice and Caleb Price. Surprisingly, this pair met while in Music Composition class and that lead to the band forming in 2007. It was an instant connection and bonding over rock music, 60's counter-culture and 90's alternative rock that they grew up with. "Between 2009 and 2012 they have released 3 Eps and 2 singles. They have played all across the Midwest, opening for acclaimed bands such as Retribution Gospel Choir and The Bad Bad Hats."

This Wisconsin-based band recently released their single "Milk", which is featured below. The song itself makes you want to listen to it on repeat (I know I did). It took me to that early 2000's rock that really made feel me good. A sort of melancholic reality. It's truly "been so long and the world moves on". Although it takes me back, there is a modern touch to it that makes it fitting to 2019. However, not only is the song very well executed, but the visuals for the video are pretty good too. The vibrant colors are a  nice contrast to the rock sound of the song.

The good news is that on September 7th, Whale House music is set to release their first full length album, "Clowder", which was recorded at Drum Farm Studios. "Clowder" was made by a talented team of individuals who have worked with bands such as Green Day and MGMT and it will be available both digitally and on vinyl. 

For those of you listening to Whale House for the first time, you are in for a pleasant surprise. 

Link for Whale House's site:
www.whalehousemusic.com

New York duo, Phantogram, made up of John Carter and Sarah Barthel recently released a new single  called "Mister Impossible". A single that truly sounds like it belongs in an action blockbuster movie.  This is a follow up from their previous single, "Into Happiness", which is a song about learning to find happiness after being in a dark place and that also seems to be the consensus by Phantogram fans commenting beneath the song on YouTube video. I get chills every time I hear "wish you could be here." Lots of people have found it as a way to deal whether it's listening to a song or writing one. That brings me to the fact that the band has actually made it their mission to donate one dollar from every ticket sale to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This decision stems after the loss of Sarah's sister. It is about creating a consciousness and helping. There is always a silver lining.

Phantogram whose sound is a nice mix of rock, pop, and electronic psychedelic grooves, is currently touring and one of the dates include El Paso on September 15th at the Lowbrow Palace. The Lowbrow Palace is a great venue that has been graced by bands like Le Butcherettes, The Marias and many more. I really recommend that you see Phantogram in this setting, it is pretty intimate. Phantogram is one of those bands that has the ability to transport me in a certain time and place in my life no matter which song it is. It's so nostalgic and comforting. Even if you don't know who Phantogram is, you would be supporting a great band and a great cause. Plus, Bob Moses will be opening up for the band. It will be such a special night!

Don't forget to catch Phantogram during this headlining tour and buy your tickets for the Lowbrow either online or at the door! For more tour information click here: www.phantogram.com/tour

Location:
The Lowbrow Palace (Outdoors)
1101 Texas Ave, El Paso, TX 79901