'Ville #9

dadBOP dadBOP

By Stacy Leiser

Making music has intrinsic rewards, right?

Creativity!

Self-expression!

Making something from nothing! It feels good!

But unless making music pays the bills, having a family to consider has been the end of many a band. Clarksville musician Dusty Mahan fell in love with music as a teenager at Montgomery Central High School.

“It consumed me,” he said. These days, Dusty has a compelling reason, several times over, to let music-making remain a sweet memory from his teenage years at Montgomery Central High School. That’s because Dusty is Dad to FOUR children. These small joy-makers range in age from 1 to 7. And Dusty works full time in a nonmusical capacity at Hankook Tire.

So who has time for band practice?

I mean, really.

But again with that multiplying magic, Dusty is a member of not one but three local bands: poppish Electric Mahan, heavy metal FuzzRipper, and the newest, born in the early days of 2023, dadBOP. A brand new baby band, pop punk dadBOP already has three original songs with enticing videos on YouTube. Find them at dadBOP.

Don‘t miss my favorite of the three videos, “Alone,” shot by Cody Hegler, who is also the drummer for Can’t Relate. The video begins in the parking lot at Wicked Good Sandwiches, Jason and Patti Yates’ livemusic-supporting restaurant on University Avenue. And from there it becomes a video diary that could be titled, “Things To Love About Clarksville.” (So much!)

Guitarist Tommy Scott is the only dadBOPper who doesn’t have kids and enjoys his free time traveling the world. This year, Sweden and Korea! Imagine that?!

But the rest of dadBOP have kids galore. In addition to singer/guitarist Dusty’s four kids, drummer Austin Bush has one child and bass player Jason Yates has… four. I mean, the adults are waaaaay outnumbered. But using adult strategies, like a timer to limit his music-writing to an hour, Dusty manages to squeeze it all in.

This is a good time to mention Christen Mahan, Dusty’s wife, who is a full-time mom and committed to supporting Dusty’s work as a musician.

“She’s the hero,” Dusty said. “They all look at me like ‘Dad’s the hero,’ but Mom’s the hero.”

Fun.

Especially when they have other careers. But dadBOP insisted itself into existence. “It was just a studio project at first, having fun mixing some songs down,” Dusty said.

Fun was had by all, they discovered.

“We said, ‘Well, we might as well start a band,” Dusty said. “We’ve just been having a blast with it.”Often it takes incredible determination to forge a band out of kindred musicians,

dadBOP is one of 6 bands playing on our ‘VILLE stage at ArtsVILLE Fest on October 7 in downtown Clarksville. The band members, in their 30s and 40s, are also working on a new music festival: MySpace Fest! Look for it on the streets of Clarksville coming soon.

That’s all I need to know. Put me at the top of your friends list, dadBOP!-StacyLeiser

Captain Molasses

byAshleyKettle

In the farthest reaches of the inner space, in a place called the corner of comfort and luxury, there is a band known as Captain Molasses. They are a group of three misfit musicians – bass player Andrew ‘Stiff’ Johnson, drummer Kirk Sumner and guitarist Jake Denning – who know how to throw down some seriously funky tunes.

The band not only knows how to throw down some seriously funky tunes, but they also know how to sling secrets like nobody’s business, “We don’t think Stiff actually knows how to play music.” They’ve seen him multiple times before shows, systematically turning his amp all the way down. It was a mystery that perplexed them, but they don’t care because Stiff brings an eccentric charm to their performances.

The trio is currently in the studio AKA ‘The Captain’s Quarters’, recording two much-anticipated debut EPs. They’ve been working tirelessly, fueled by excitement and an eagerness to get it over with. The anticipation is almost too much to handle, but they know the outcome will be worth it.

One day, during a break from the studio, I, a curious writer for The ‘VILLE, approached the band for an interview. I asked them about their musical influences, expecting a list of renowned artists. But the guys of Captain Molasses had a different story to tell.

With mischievous grins all around, they all replied in unison, "Well, our musical influences are pretty much the old records you'd find digging through your alcoholic uncle's collection. You know, the ones he hides away in the attic. We like to call it 'vintage with a twist.' And of course, we can't forget about Devo.” I got the impression that Devo is their spirit animal.

I raised an eyebrow, unsure if I should take them seriously. Nevertheless, I continued with the interview, intrigued by the band's unique perspective.

As the interview progressed, I was captivated by the band's witty banter and infectious humor. I couldn't help but chuckle at their outrageous anecdotes and quirky insights into the music industry.

Days turned into weeks, and I found myself entangled in the world of Captain Molasses. I accompanied them to their rehearsals, witnessed their wild jam sessions, and even became an impromptu backup dancer during their performances. The contagious energy of the band was too irresistible to resist. (Okay, that didn’t happen, but it totally could).

Finally, the day of the EP release arrived. Captain Molasses took the stage, ready to unleash their latest funky beats upon the world. As the music started, the crowd went wild, their bodies moving to the groovy rhythms. Stiff, true to form, pretended to play his non-existent instrument, and the crowd loved every second of it.

The performance was a surreal experience, a whirlwind of laughter, and a sensation that transcended the boundaries of traditional music. As the final notes resounded through the venue, the crowd erupted in applause, hungry for more.

After the show, I approached the band, my eyes filled with wonder and curiosity. "How did you guys do it?" I asked, "How did you create such an electric atmosphere and those “thick riffs?”

Captain Molasses exchanged glances, their eyes twinkling mischievously. "Well," one of them said with a sly grin, "that's the beauty of it, isn't it? Sometimes, it's not about the technicality or expertise. It's about the sheer joy, the connection, and the shared laughter. Music is a universal language, my friend."

And with that enigmatic response, Captain Molasses bid me adieu, leaving me with a lingering sense of wonder and the desire to unravel the mystery behind their music.

And so, the legend of Captain Molasses continues to grow, leaving behind a trail of curiosity and bewilderment wherever they go.

Okay, okay, they haven’t released their latest EPs on stage yet, but I have a sneaking suspicion that the exact scenario I created in my head will play out at PossumStock in September. And if you were lucky enough to catch them live at Flamingo Valley, Tour de Ville, Pope Farms or Springwater then you know just the type of atomic rock tunes and the vibe they throw down. IYKYK.

If you want to know how I know, check out their YouTube Channel: Captain Molasses Band. There you’ll find some of the Basement Tapes which gives amazing insight into who these guys are. And for the record, I’m fairly certain Stiff is actually playing and the amp is turned up.

Jacob Markus

Photographyby

Clarksville Craft

NathanandHeatherManese

TheFallenBrewery

Which Brew "Tunes" You -by

Richard Glass

Even if you don't feel like hitting the Bar or Club to get your music fix, Clarksville is chock full of Breweries, a Winery, and a couple of Distilleries providing a great atmosphere, tasty libations, and plenty of tunes from solo artists, duos, and sometimes even full bands.

Kings Bluff Brewery on University Avenue (owned by Dustyn & Kristen Brewer - really) hosts live music on at least one weekend night, and during warm months the stage is a cozy little deck out back.

TN Valley Brewing Co on Franklin Street has live music every Friday night and some weekends. In Sango on 41-A the spot is The Thirsty Goat with performances Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

Clarksville's newest craft brew house, The Fallen on Jardco Dr has artists play on most Saturdays and even some Fridays. Dedicated to honor military and first responder personnel, it also has an outside seating area.

Of course the Granddaddy of all local craft breweries is The Blackhorse owned by Jeff and Sherri Robinson on Franklin Street. Originally opened as The Franklin Street Pub in 1992 The Horse has become a focal point for night life, especially with their upstairs "Tap Room" hosting themed parties and dance music.

Evill Nash Brewing Company on 10th Street has set up shop in a former popular Meat & Three restaurant, and in addition to brewing some creative and tasty suds is still putting that iconic kitchen to good use. Although the center of the local alt/emo/punk genre, they will throw in some fine solo acts to mix things up.

And although they don't brew, TapHouse 57 on Madison at Excell will draw you a pint of some fine local beer and treat you to some great artists most Saturday evenings.

If beer's not your drink of choice, we're fortunate to have Beachaven Winery in our town. Aside from monthly Jazz on the Lawn concerts, The Beach features live music every Friday through Sunday with food trucks as accompaniment.

Conversely if you want to "kick it up a notch" Leatherwood Distillery on Progress Drive in St. B has a chill space for music acts most Fridays and Saturdays.

The newest Distillery here is Three Rifles, located behind Star Spangled Brewing Company on Spring Street. As they spin up their operation, live music is in the works.

Dock17 on Madison Street is neither a brewery nor distillery. But, in their restaurant they have started presenting regular live music. Normally hosting shows on Wednesdays and Thursdays, they've added days for the summer and now have music from Friday through Sunday as well.

There are of course other spots around town that are starting to jump on the "band" wagon, so take advantage of what is offered. From Yoga studios like Sanctuary on Main to restaurants, businesses are seeing that music draws crowds.

Make time to spend an evening at a local venue to hear either your favorites or maybe a new artist you haven't discovered yet. We've got some really good music and musicians in Clarksville. So get out there and support live music! The more you do, the more you'll see. (Check each venues Facebook, web site, or Instagram for offerings and schedules).

EricandWendyBrannstromTennesseeValleyBrewing

James Miller - Evill Nash

Dustyn and Kristen BrewerKings Bluff Brewery

Jeff and Sherri Robinson of The Blackhorse

Darius Dawson

The chops this guy has! It's been brought to my attention recently, that thing the makes you a sought-after drummer...that makes you not just a timekeeper bashing away on the high-hats in perfect eighth or sixteenth notes. It's Swing. Ringo Starr, John Bonham, Dave Grohl, hell; ALL the great drummers with great feel have SWING! Darius Dawson has it! Everyone wants to play with Darius because he brings that amazing feel to the table and the songs just pop. It's this "what the hell is that guy doing that makes him so good" thing that makes me want to listen to him with ALL these bands So what's up with Darius and his drums?

How long have ya been playing?

20 years

Were you in band at school? Yes. Middle School, High School & College.

Biggest influences on drums?

Elvin Jones, Vinnie Colaiuta, Greg Hutchinson, Buddy Miles, Gary Novak and Brian Blade

What kind of gear do you use? Kit, cymbal set up, sticks, snare(if different from the kit)

I have a Gretsch Catalina Club I use for smaller venues and a Premier Cabria I use to larger ones. I play Zildjian cymbals, primarily. Mostly K’s.

My sticks of choice are the Extreme 8D model by Vic Firth, Gospel Fusion and the Cora Coleman signature model by Vater

I tend to switch snare drums a lot, depending on the music. Gretsch Black Nickle, DW Brass, and a Ludwig Supralite are my main workhorses.

What band(s) have you been in? Past and present

My first band was at church, Household of Faith World Outreach Center at 8 years old in Fayetteville NC.

After college, I won an audition for the Broadway musical “After Midnight” aboard the Norwegian Escape in 2017.

In 2019, I joined the 101st Airborne Division Band. I was a percussionist in the Army until 2021.

Since 2021 I have worked with The Variables, Riverside Drive, Lillicat, No Name Maddox, Beebs Got Soul, New Suede, Cody Parsons and the Heavy Change, Oomami, Lord Tennyson, Rachel McCamy, Larysa Jaye, Oliver Steele, Crooked Pointer and many others.

Currently I hold the drum chair for Beebs Got Soul, No Name Maddox, Oomami, Brady and the Bazookas, and Salem Community Church.

Favorite things about Clarksville music scene? This scene truly feels like family. I’ve met people here I truly consider my brothers and sisters.

Any particular shows you've played stand out as being your best or favorite?

Possumstock 2022 definitely comes to mind! I was honored to play with Lillicat, New Suede, Animarium, Oomami, and No Name Maddox all in the same weekend!

What music do you listen to? Like what's your play list?

A bit of everything, I try hard to not turn my nose up to anything and keep an open mind and heart. My playlist can range from Sade, Bad Brains, Frou Frou, MF DOOM, Kerri Chandler, Little Brother. I’m honestly all over the place.

Lately, I’ve really been stuck on the Band of Gypsys….can’t get enough!

Quote: “Rejection is Gods protection”

"Never quit, never give up, never give in." Dominic Chinnis' story is perfectly summed up by these powerful words. His life took a drastic turn on a fateful Super Bowl Sunday, February 13, 2022. Dominic, deeply passionate about motocross racing, was in the midst of training when a catastrophic accident changed everything. It happened while he was navigating a race track, encountering a series of bumps known as rollers. In a split second, he was sent hurtling over the handlebars, landing with an impact so intense it shattered even his helmet. The result? Dominic found himself paralyzed, facing an uphill battle that would test his strength, resilience, and unshakable faith.

Through the darkness of his ordeal, Dominic held tight to his belief that God was with him. His injuries left him unable to move, a stark contrast to the active lifestyle he once enjoyed. Rushed to Nashville via life flight, he underwent emergency surgery to fuse his T1-T8 vertebrae. The journey toward healing was just beginning, but Dominic's determination was unwavering.

Months of grueling rehabilitation lay ahead. Thankfully Dominic was never alone. His loving family stood beside him, providing constant support as he confronted the monumental challenges before him. In fact, his determination helped even his parents cope with the tragedy. He told them, "Don't cry, this is meant to be. God has a plan for me."

Doctors offered a somber prognosis, telling him point-blank that he would never walk again. Yet, Dominic was determined to prove them wrong. He channeled his energy into his recovery, focusing on the small victories that would eventually lead to remarkable progress.

Central to Dominic's transformation is his commitment to exercise, a commitment that found a home at the Clarksville Athletic Club. Each day, he pushes himself, defying the limitations trying to hold him captive. Despite the initial paralysis from his sternum down, Dominic faithfully maintains his workout.

Dominic's tireless efforts have yielded extraordinary results. Despite the doctors' skepticism, he has defied the odds and taken his first steps, aided by assistive devices. Every step is a testament not only to his physical strength but also to his unwavering faith in God.

Dominic's story resonates far beyond his personal journey. His presence at the Clarksville Athletic Club serves as a powerful inspiration, motivating others to embrace their own challenges with the same determination. His dream of returning to motocross racing, once a distant dream, now seems increasingly within reach.

In Dominic Chinnis, we witness the human spirit's incredible capacity for resilience and perseverance. His unshakable faith, relentless determination, and commitment to self-improvement have transformed a tragedy into a triumphant tale of recovery. With each step he takes on his journey to reclaim his independence, Dominic reminds us that no obstacle is insurmountable, as long as we hold fast to the mantra: "Never quit, never give up, never give in." BettySammons

Festival Life

editors note

Since2016,I'vebeenattendingamusicfestivalknownasRESONANCEthatoriginatedinThornville,Ohio,nearColumbus. In2019itmovedtoCoopersLakePennsylvania,thenskipped2020,ofcourse.2021itwasinWestVirginia.2022itwas supposedtotakeplaceatacampgroundinSouthCarolinabutthatvenuepulledoutatthelastminute.Finallythey decidedtoclosedownResonanceafteronelasthoorahinGarrettsvilleOhio.Asofwritingthis,Ihavebeenhomefora dayandahalf.Iammostlystillthere….enjoyingthemusic,thechillandcarefreelifewithpassionforlivingoutdoorsfora fewdays,livingonDisc-o-pizza(afavoritevendor),beer,granola,andabunchoffestivalgrub.OhandWATER.

Thisparticulareventhassomethingelse.Friendlypeople.Someofthegreatestpeopleyou’llmeetanywhere.Theyhave suchaloveforthemusic!Itsreallyamazing.Kindpeoplewhojustwanttoenjoythislifeforafewdays!

Surethisdoesn'thaveanythingtodowithmusicinClarksville,butthat'snotthepoint.It'stheSPIRIT.Wehavealotof thissamespirithereinourownmusicalcommunity.Possumstockisagreatexampleofthat.Sosimilaronasmaller,yet evergrowingscale!

Theloveformusicandconnectionwiththeearthandotherlikemindedpeopleasaspiritualjourney.Itsquitebeautiful.

Ohyeah...andtheamazingmusic!