Menage

Luscious and original, Asheville's own 'Menage' delivers a contagious mix of soul, swing, pop, country and blues that will steal your poor heart! Sweet harmonies and distinct song writing are the backbone of this band's novel style. Menage presents an exciting and powerful live show that began in a small neighborhood pub in West Asheville, NC in 2002. Since that time, much of the positive and widespread buzz about Menage can be attributed to the support of local newspapers, television and news stations that keep Menage in regular rotation. WNCW used one of the group's songs on their annual compilation disc in 2004, which also featured Donna the Buffalo, Gillian Welch, Tim O'Brian, The Indigo Girls, and many more. Menage has shared the stage with nationally and internationally appreciated groups such as The Snake Oil Medicine Show, Donna the Buffalo, The Blue Rags, and The Avett Brothers. Menage is currently working with a management team that is preparing them for their first major record label affiliation. "Ménage is the most exciting new Asheville act I've heard this year," Martin Anderson, program director, WNCW-FM, May 2004. This regional favorite has been wooing folks from near and far with their own brand of sass. To describe their original music: Think Patsy Cline country, Nina Simone soul, Bob Wills western swing, Tom Waits jazz and Jimmy Reed blues. Originally a female trio with a focus on vocal harmony, Ménage now has a new attitude. The band is fronted by 2003 founding members Sarah McDonald, the swanky wordsmith (guitar, banjo, super sultry singin') and Mary Ellen Bush, the sophisticated growler (dog house bass, guitar, harmonica, and amazing boots.) Ménage is proud to introduce their newest members, Matthew Kinne (electric guitars, bringing loads of "I've been in lots of bands" experience) and Evan E-break Martin (drums and loveable, Muppet like gestures on the stage.) You are sure to get down at a live Menage show!