ordinary.

Sunday, February 26, 2006

Saturday's Musician's Showcase (02/25/06-hosted by Todd South) was like a rock n' roll layer cake. First up we had the lovely and talented Jen Scaffidi busting out something old, something new, etc. We hear she's hoping to get a new album finished this year!

Next up Mister Vague (Mark ala Mark) debuted the new album with style, selling several copies on the spot. And hey, they're available for sale on our in-shop CD rack!

The night was capped by an outstanding set by local faves ordinary. Their new bassist did a great job--as did the rest of the band--finishing with a sing-along rendition of their song "Sorry". They also did a natty good job trying for the title of, "Best Dressed Band in Town."

Great weekend ... thanks everyone!


posted by Todd 2/26/2006 02:39:00 PM
- Todd South

Ordinary

On Friday night I sat with Van and Erika from Brant as we waited for the first band of the night to start their set at the Zephyr Lounge.

The Zephyr is one of the few local bars with live music in Reno. Its small, which is great for an intimate feeling and allows the audience to truly enjoy the show.

First up were local band The Astronots. Their first song was a fun tune called Drunk. They have a definite garage band style which is appealing but could use a bit more finesse. I'll add that their vocal harmony parts were well synched and sounded good. The Astronots left all with a burning question about...
Their song Hematoma. We were shaking our heads and cracking up. Its impossible to beat this chorus:
Hematoma!
Stitches to my head!

After some stunningly drunken dancing by the crowd it was time to see Ordinary, the headliner for the night and the best dressed band in Nevada. Possibly the western United States. Tough call.

Ive heard their currently available CD, which is a live recording from Waldens. Its an acoustic set. Ordinary is definitely a rock band and although the unplugged versions on their Waldens recording are fine, you really need to see and hear them play live. Their sound is distinct and addictive and their obvious enjoyment in performing is clearly apparent. What a damned relief to see a band fall into their music instead of looking at their feet, the ceiling, an imaginary spot on the wall or anything else. Um, if I want to see a jaded demeanor I'll look in the mirror thank you very much.

Ordinary is:

EJ Maldonado-vocals/guitars

Wes woods-bass

Evan Deprosse-drums





I spoke with EJ before the show. He told me that Ordinary has a studio CD that should be available June 1st. They are just finishing up production this week. Their set Friday night consisted of 10 songs, 9 of which are on the new CD.

Despite an iffy mix by the house sound man for the first half of the set, the well crafted lyrics and dynamic instrumental sound of Ordinary shone through. The lush chords and musical arrangements were stunning and it is difficult to comprehend that there is only a lead guitar and bass. Amazing. A testament to the exceptional quality of their songs and writing ability, not just their inherent musicianship.

Ordinary is tight and exceptionally well rehearsed, but definitely not complacent. The lyrics are a fine juxtaposition of the dark side of emotions, tongue in cheek observations, and a wonderfully skewed view of relationships and life. The drive and intensity of their performance floored everyone in the audience. The last song, Sorry, was the perfect tune to end on. You'll want to sing with the chorus. The song hooks you with both the music and words. Other highlights of their set were White and Hate You.

I cant recommend seeing this quirky power trio highly enough. Grab a seat at a local Reno venue before they're touring and selling out in larger clubs.

Listen to their music and find out more at:

www.myspace.com/ordinarymusic

Rachael Black
KREN Channel 27
Reno, Nevada



- KREN- Reno Channel 27