The Next American Star Showcase at House of Blues

To follow-up my mention of Powerspace at the House of Blue's Wednesday, June 24, it is only fair to give full props to all of the performing bands competing in the Next American Star. I walked into the venue just in time to catch Everlife, a Nashville-based band consisting of three sisters, a violinist, and a drummer. The two older sisters play guitar and supply backing vocals to the youngest sister's very well-trained lead voice. There is nothing like putting similar genetics into live harmonies that all sound like the same voice. With a soulful violinist and a very organic, simplistic drummer, the experience of Everlife is musically fulfilling in the sense that your ears will be receiving an honest, well-rehearsed sound. It will be interesting to see what comes out of this group in a couple of years, should their demographic of Hannah Montana fans (and their parents) grow older. I'm all about chicks that rock, and since they cited The Who and Lynyrd Synyrd as influences, a small tap into that musicality could be exciting in the future.

The next showcased (and female-fronted) band was twin sisters Sammy and Sasha. Backed by Chicago music veterans Damon Ranger, Greg Potter, Tim Maeder, and Edmer Abante, the wall of sound produced was all too invigorating. The first snare hit gave away Potter's talent, and the chemistry between Ranger and Abante almost stole the show. The girls have great voices and an obvious knack for performing, as they seemed right at home onstage. It is unclear what genre of music they may be shooting for, as the audience heard some power distortion in the guitars with some songs, floor-pumping bass with others, and a rap breakdown in another. At 17, experimenting with sound is exactly what Sammy and Sasha should be doing. Hopefully we'll get to see them joined by equally as talented instrumentalists closer to their age in the near future.


Awake in Reno entertained us with their first ever performance of catchy cover tunes such as "Take on Me," "King of Wishful Thinking," and "I Just Can't Stop." These dudes have fun and they're not afraid to show it. Hopefully, as they gain performance experience, they'll gain some songwriting to throw out as well.


A band that deserves special props, and one that I certainly hope wins this contest (if it's still going?) is Asteria. They brought great original songs, astounding energy, and some pitch-perfect attitude to the stage. I intend to keep a strong eye on this band from Crown Point, Indiana. They are what it's all about. They work hard, travel hard, and play even harder. Falling under the genre of what I've been calling "happy rock" lately, any fan of power pop/progressive pop, or pop/alt rock may like them. I'm excited to hear what they've been working on lately, and will most likely do a hard listen and post an album review soon.



All in all, the full experience at House of Blues was a lot of fun. I think it was my first time ever parading around a floor of dancing 10 year olds, partying 25 year olds, and drunk dads who appeared to know a lot about Cobra Starship. As far as The Next American Star goes, I think it's an interesing concept that's worth learning more about. So yes, anothe Frave Stamp of Approval is to be had.