Etheric

Etheric is the most sensational rock band of late to hit the scene. Even owner of Somewhere Else, Burley Hayes, was watching them in the crowd. He never does that. Usually he sits outside or at the door of his place collecting money.

Etheric grabs you immediately with a hopeful outlook, a peppy beat, and wide range of tones that resonate crystal clear. Imagine being on a sun-drenched beach looking into a crystal clear ocean. Each little fish, or tone rather, swims up to you gracefully and in unison as if swimming in a carefully choreographed water ballet. Although this description may make the music sound tame, it is not. The resonating tones are carefully offset with jamming guitar riffs, as if waves come crashing to the shore.

Although a lot of us are all aching for mournful, sad, and depressing music to help vent our frustrations (at least I often have, especially in high school long ago), Etheric is not depressing or sickly sweet. The tone is of strength and inner reflection. For some reason the music of Etheric reminds me a little of island music although it is not the same. This is rock, but its own kind. Etheric has a clarity, an originality, and a brilliance that is very rare and special.

When you see Etheric live, you’ll notice an amazing stage presence. Lead singer Christine Navarro is a treat to watch, and just as entertaining as any national star. Christine wore a headset instead of holding a microphone in November when I saw them play. Her movements seem graceful and choreographed, but I am sure that she just has a natural talent for moving. Christine is a yoga teacher in Charlotte. You’ll immediately notice the influence of yoga in her movements. It’s hard to describe, but it is really cool. You’ll just have to see them live for yourself. Christine was wearing interesting whiteish contacts that night, and they made her look like a tigress. Christine’s eyes are naturally brown. Combined with her energetic movements, she looked as if she was about to pounce on the crowd at any moment.

Christine’s voice is as rich as the music. The lyrics are very contemplative, and seem to be philosophical. Although I don’t know all of the lyrics, Christine sings strong and clear. She sings from her soul, adding a spiritual feel and creating a heartfelt cathartic work about life. She sounds as if she has a mission, a purpose, a deliberate reason to express what she has to say.

All along in the background drumming away is Cheetah, who was sporting some spiky blonde hair and providing backup vocals with Munk, the bassist. Munk, with a mop full of dreads, was feelin’ the Etheric vibe along with his co-conspirators while helping to weave the music tightly together. You can tell that everyone in the band loves to be on stage playing for their fans.

In 2002, Etheric released a self-titled CD featuring four songs. These include: And So I, Insight, Interstellar Static, and D’Lor. I love all of these songs, and I can’t wait until I can buy some Etheric gear and more Etheric tunes! I’d say that D’lor is my most favorite of the four, if I was forced to pick one song. All of the songs are different, but they are all well produced and have that unique Etheric flavor. Etheric has the most promise of stardom of all of the local bands I’ve seen. If you need more information, contact the band at: ethericmusic@lycos.com or call 704-201-4935

Etheric has one hell of an edge that draws a large crowd of music lovers. If you see them live, you won’t regret it.


- www.schulzart.com/etheric

recently got a chance to catch Charlotte area band Etheric performing live at the Room on Montford Drive. They were headlining a three act bill on that Friday night and had the south side club hoping into Saturday morning!

Since my first meeting with the band back in January of this year, I said then and believe it even more now, this will be the next big band to come out of Charlotte.

They have all the pieces in place starting with the incredibly charismatic lead vocalist Christine Navarro. Her sound, becoming more powerful and controlled from voice lessons will slay you. How could something so dynamic come out of such a small package!?!

Christine’s stage image has been perfected as well. Just the right balance of commanding without being overbearing, intelligent without being intimidating and sexy without being sluttish.
She’s taken how to be a rock star 101 and graduated at the top of her class. Most impressive indeed.

Christine isn’t the only one to have progressed over the last eight months since I interviewed them last.

Drummer Cheetah has gotten tighter with bassist Nute to make the bottom of the band keep the heads in the crowd boppin’. As with all rhythm sections understated but felt is the key. These two do it better than most.

Guitarist Todd Rierson remains another potent weapon in the Etheric arsenal for reasons to come out and see and support the band. His playing so much reminds me of the Edge from U2. The harmonics and layered textures of his guitar sound are truly incredible.

I’m saying again. Charlotte, check these guys out now while you still can. Next year this time they’ll be on some major tour and you’ll be sorry you missed them for a $5 cover charge and a ride across town.

Dempsey Gibson
Carolina Concerts.com

- carolinaconcerts.com