musicnotes by MATT CAUTHRON
Bring on the Carnival
you’re invited
I
Photos by Brooke Allen Blue Dome Mardi Gras Parade, 2013
f you’ve never experienced the Mardi Gras Parade in the heart of downtown Tulsa’s Blue Dome District, I humbly implore you to correct that mistake on March 4. Now in its fifth year, the parade offers all the great things about Mardi Gras (the revelry, the music, the cheap plastic neck ornaments) without all the atrocious things about Mardi Gras (the overcrowded chaos, the drunk fratboys, the potpourri of foul and mysterious odors). This year, The Tulsa Voice will partner with the McNellie’s Group to throw a music-centric Fat Tuesday throwdown that will
album review
commence immediately after the parade makes its last turn. Guitar master and bandleader Paul Benjaman will anchor an all-star Tulsa jam that will include singer-songwriter-guitarist-growler Beau Roberson, dreamy drummer Paddy Ryan, sax man and civil disobedient Mike Staub, with many more special guests sure to join in. Heated tent, beer and booze specials, free to get in. What else do you want from us? Just go already. Tuesday, March 4 // After the parade // Corner of 2nd St. and Elgin Ave.
Don’t miss these shows
Flowers & Wounds, Jesse Aycock
W
ith his guitar in such high demand for other groups, it’s a wonder Jesse Aycock has time to put out any material of his own. Yet his latest album, “Flowers & Wounds,” finds the Tulsa singer-songwriter in inspired form, displaying a level of assured maturity in songwriting, playing and production that surpasses any of his previous output. Aycock recruited guitarist Neal Casal and drummer George Sluppick of the Chris Robinson Brotherhood for the recording session (along with Eric Arndt on bass), and bringing in the big guns paid off in spades. The record is tight and polished throughout, with a foundation of restrained authority from the backing players that never hints at grandstanding or overreaching. Though the album contains some brighter, up-tempo tracks (the impossibly catchy “Out to Space” evokes early Tom Petty), 42 // MUSIC
it really shines when the darkness sets in and Aycock aims his signature tenor at moments of contemplative sorrow. The minor-key blues of “Where’s the Light” to open the record and the stripped-down acoustic whisper of “Look Inside” to close it provide perfect bookends for a work that often feels rooted in heartache. Overall it’s a strong, well-rounded effort from a musician who seems poised to continue an already upward trajectory through the ranks of the music industry. As Tulsa guitar hero Paul Benjaman quipped in advance of Aycock’s recent appearance on “Conan” with the Hard Working Americans: “Come to a local show and pay $5 to see him now, or wait and pay $45 to see him later. Your pick.” “Flowers & Wounds” (Horton Records) — Available at select local retailers, iTunes, Amazon.com and HortonRecords.com.
MCs Dr. Fre eman and Verse of Oilhouse
Rhyme Time Tulsa hip-hop collective Oilhouse—featuring Verse, Algebra, Dr. Freeman, Mike Dee, Sr’Ron, ULUNZU, and DJ Nutter—headline a versatile bill at the Creative Room (1317 E. 6th St.) with generous helpings of punk rock, soul, and R&B, slated to warm up the crowd in advance of the main event. // 7 p.m., Feb. 22.
Straight to the Dome The music found a way. Conceived as a monthly showcase at Dwelling Spaces, The Blue Dome Music Series has grown some serious legs in its second year, expanding its offerings and venues across the downtown district. Held the first Saturday of each month, the series showcases local, original music and is curated by musicians Chris Combs, Cami Stinson, and Horton Records President Brian Horton. Check out facebook.com/BlueDomeMusicSeries for information and updates on artists and venues. // 7 p.m., March 4 Feb. 19 – Mar. 4, 2014 // THE TULSA VOICE