River Gibson

By Claire Salinas



River Gibson’s had a whirlwind year. From making it to the Hollywood round of American Idol to going solo, a lot has changed for the artist from Breaux Bridge, who will soon take the stage at the Varsity Theatre with Royal Teeth and Lane Mack.

For the small town guitar hero, the trip to Tinseltown came as the best kind of shock.

“I was screaming. It was kind of like a spur of the moment thing for me to audition,” said Gibson, explaining when he found out he made it. “I didn’t really expect to make it, especially because I come from a rock background and I already know what kind of artist I want to be. What I mean is I’ve played so many shows, and I’ve already been around the stage and developed into who I am, and that’s not changing.”

Although Gibson was shown for only a few moments on the actual show, a lot went on behind the scenes for him to make it to the Hollywood round.

“In New Orleans there were three auditions before the judges’ audition, then I went to the judges’ audition and later that year I got put through to Hollywood, there we went up in these groups and it was like this mass elimination thing,” Gibson said. “Each person steps up to the microphone and sings little bit.”

Although Gibson was eventually eliminated, the experience taught him a lot.

“It was amazing for me to be around talented people trying to do the same thing,” said Gibson. “I was assuming they would be a bunch of YouTube singers. All those people on there are professional musicians though, and they’re familiar with the aspects of the business.”

The experience has lead Gibson to pursue a bit of a new direction for his music. Over the summer he will be recording an EP in Nashville with a pop producer looking towards a fall release. Another transition Gibson has made this year is from playing in a band to becoming a solo act.

Although he plays with three other band members, he performs as River Gibson, and explains, “it’s like a solo thing, it’s kind of like Bruce Springsteen.”

According to Gibson, the show at the Varsity will be a “good mix of songs.”

“About a third will come from Tandem [Gibson’s old band],” Gibson said. “We’ll have some covers and we’ll play some new songs for sure.”

People at the show can expect to have a good time because of Gibson’s passion for performing live shows.

“We’re a really energetic kind of band I’m really big into audience participation,” said Gibson. “I run into the crowds and try to keep them singing as much as possible. I keep a party atmosphere because if they’re not having fun I’m not doing my job right.”

Catch Gibson with Lane Mack and Royal Teeth at the Varsity Theatre on March 28. Doors will open at 8 p.m. and the show will start at 9 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 day of show and can be purchased online at ticketweb.com/. - DIG Baton Rouge

Singer River Gibson has been on a roll. Since December 2013, Gibson and his band Tandem have twice played the House of Blues in New Orleans, performed at Festival International de Louisiane and opened for Gavin DeGraw, Hinder, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and other rock notables.

Now Gibson can add "American Idol" to his resume. The local singer will appear on season 14 of "Idol," which premieres at 7 p.m. Thursday on Fox.

Gibson has been blown away by all of the attention.

LAST YEAR: Another Louisiana 'Idol' contestant advances

LOCAL BAND: Royal Teeth on 'Idol'

"It's unreal, all the support coming right before the premiere," said Gibson, 20. "It's wonderful to know that so many people support music and artists coming up in the industry."

As usual, "Idol" kicks off a new season with segments from auditions held at sites across the country. Gibson performed at auditions held last summer at the Lakefront Arena and Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. His audition is tentatively scheduled to air Jan. 20.

Rules of the reality competition prevent Gibson from revealing the outcome. He said the audition was a spur of the moment decision.

"I drove off to New Orleans and I got there around 11 or so," said Gibson. "The line had already dissipated. I went in and filled out all my paperwork. Right after that, I guess I auditioned.

"I've been in a band for a long time. I haven't really wanted to go out on my own. I'm not sure what it was about it, but some reason, I decided to do it. It was fun."

Gibson played guitar and sang an original song, "Alive," before "Idol" judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick, Jr.

"Being in front of the superstars was kind of nerve wracking. They're there to judge you entirely, not just your musical talent, but your whole persona.

"But you'll have to watch the show to see what they said to me."

As "Idol" fans wait for the results, Gibson hopes to stay on a roll. He retired from Tandem and is now concentrating on a solo career.

Kevin Trosper and Paul Martin, two Tandem alumni, are part of his new pop rock band, along with drummer Brenon Wilson. Gibson and band perform Jan. 16 at Club Z, formerly known as The Ballroom, on Jefferson Street in downtown Lafayette.

A studio recording in Nashville is in the works. Gibson said his "Idol" experience has helped him grown as a performer.

"I was surrounded by so much talent constantly. Not only in the room with the judges or Ryan Seacrest, but each individual there has so much talent from all over the country, so many incredible musicians doing the same thing I am, just trying to get where they want to be. I got to make a lot of friends."


Watch Live

Season 14 of "American Idol" premieres at 7 p.m. today on KADN Fox. 15. - The Daily Advertiser

Fans of "American Idol" may have to wait a little longer to see River Gibson of Breaux Bridge. Gibson performed last summer at the season 14 "Idol" auditions in New Orleans.

Some of those Crescent City auditions will be televised at 7 p.m. Thursday on Fox TV. But a representative of the show said Gibson's performance may not be seen. There are too many auditions to squeeze into the one-hour broadcast.

In a Jan. 7 interview with the Daily Advertiser, Gibson said he played guitar and sang an original song, "Alive," before "Idol" judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick, Jr.

Gibson may be seen later during Hollywood Week, the first round of competition following the auditions. Scheduled for the first week in February, Hollywood Week features dozens of contestants from the nationwide auditions performing solo or in groups. Winners advance to the semifinals.

"Idol" is expected to release a list of those advancing to Los Angeles after the audition show airs.


THE ADVERTISER
River Gibson to perform on 'American Idol'
Gibson, a singer and guitarist, continues to perform outside the "Idol" spotlight. Last Friday night, he and his new solo group entertained at Club Z, formerly known at The Ballroom, in downtown Lafayette.

Gibson will perform at 9 p.m. Feb. 14 at Cajun Field for Le Festival de Mardi Gras a' Lafayette.

Gibson and band mates Kevin Trosper and Paul Martin are former members of Tandem, a local rock band that enjoyed some prime gigs since December 2013. The band played the House of Blues in New Orleans twice, performed at Festival International de Louisiane and opened for Gavin DeGraw, Hinder, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and other bands.

Gibson posts band updates on his Facebook page, facebook.com/rivergibson.


Want to watch?

"American Idol" New Orleans auditions

7 p.m. Thursday

KADN Fox 15 - The Daily Advertiser

River Gibson's ride on "American Idol" has come to an end. The Breaux Bridge native confirmed Tuesday that he did not advance past Hollywood Week, the second round of competition that started last week on Fox TV.

After weeks of waiting, "Idol" fans caught their first glimpse of Gibson on the show Thursday night. A 3-second clip showed Gibson singing and playing his guitar as contestants performed in groups at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles.

But viewers were left hanging. The fate of Gibson's group was never revealed.

Gibson said his group was sent home. While disappointed, Gibson said "Idol" was an exciting experience.


THE ADVERTISER
River Gibson spotted on 'American Idol
"Because of 'American Idol,' I was able to put myself in front of a much wider audience than I'd be able to on my own," said Gibson. "Even without much camera time, thanks to media exposure and sheer excitement, so many people were made aware of my name and my artistry, especially here in Acadiana.

"The support from everyone at home has been truly gratifying. I'm so thankful for all the love and well wishes from all my fans, friends and family. I only hope that people will continue to support me past my run on 'American Idol,' because my musical journey is far from over."

The former lead singer for the local rock band Tandem, Gibson advanced to Hollywood Week after auditioning in New Orleans last summer. He sang an original song, "Alive," before "Idol" judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr.

Gibson said he'd love to try for "Idol" again.

"My parents taught me to take every opportunity I possibly can, that you never know when something might just get you where you want to be. 'Idol' was a really inspiring experience for me, and I learned a lot from it.

"I'm making my own way for now, but I'm very open to trying it again."

As Gibson's "Idol" run ends, he moves on with his solo career. He'll perform at 9 p.m. Saturday at Cajun Field during Le Festival de Mardi Gras a' Lafayette.

Gibson will also play at 9 a.m. March 28 at the Running of the Ducks 2015 at Red Lerille's Health and Racquet Club.

"I've learned that it's okay to have big dreams, that it's more than possible to achieve anything you want in this life," said Gibson. "I know who I am and what I want to do.

"And I'm shooting for the stars."

Gibson posts updates on his band at Facebook.com/rivergibson. - The Daily Advertiser

"American Idol" fans had their first glimpse of River Gibson Thursday night. A 3-second clip was shown of the Breaux Bridge singer and guitarist performing on the Orpheum Theater stage in Los Angeles.

Gibson's name was not mentioned or shown on the screen. After the clip, "Idol" judge Jennifer Lopez commented, "In the audition, I remember him being really good."

Gibson could not be reached for comment after the show.

The short segment was part of "Hollywood Week," the second round of competition. Contestants compete in solo and group competitions, which continue at 7 p.m. Feb. 11-12 on KADN Fox 15. - The Daily Advertiser

"American Idol" has been good and not-so-good for River Gibson of Breaux Bridge. Gibson has been pleasantly overwhelmed by hundreds of messages congratulating his successful audition on the show.

But like his fans, the singer and guitarist is bummed out that America has yet to see his talents. Last week, "Idol" televised the New Orleans auditions, where Gibson tried out last summer.

But his audition was among several that were not shown. There simply wasn't enough time during the one-hour broadcast.

"It's been great, but I wish they'd show me," said Gibson. "I've had a couple of people ask me if I'm just making this up.

"There's just nothing I can do about it. But all the attention has been great."

Gibson and fans wait to see if he gets camera time during Hollywood Week, which begins tonight and Thursday and continues next week on Fox TV. In these shows, contestants who had successful auditions are gathered at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles to perform before judges in solo and group performances.

Contest rules prevent Gibson from revealing his outcome. But he said many people were sent home.

"They bring 10 people up at a time," said Gibson. "Each person gets like a minute or so to sing. They eliminate in bulk — like five at a time — for that first round.

"Then the next round is the group round, which they do every year. Then a solo round after that."

Gibson said many contestants became anxious as the judging intensifies. But he held on to his confidence.

"If you let it get to you, it can be the most nerve-wracking thing you've ever done. I tried to stay in the zone and I didn't feel the nerves like some other people. I tried to stay pretty calm and confident with it.

"It's a stressful thing because they're calling out names and you never know if your name is next. You have to stay ready to perform at all times."

Gibson, former lead singer of the rock band Tandem, is ready to perform at home. Now with his own solo project, Gibson plays at 9 p.m. Feb. 14 at Cajun Field during Le Festival de Mardi Gras a' Lafayette.

Updates are available at the River Gibson page on Facebook.


Hollywood Week on "American Idol"

When: 7 p.m. today, Thursday

Where: KADN Fox 15 - The Daily Advertiser

"Sky's the limit," according to musician and Breaux Bridge native River Gibson, former lead singer/guitarist for local alt. rock band Tandem. River stopped by the studio this morning to talk about his music, the name change of his band and his expericence auditioning for this season of American Idol. He said that it's been a great experience and the auditioning process wasn't as bad as it looks on TV. River went try out at auditions held in New Orleans on a whim last year so, we shall see how it goes for him this week. I found out that he did play his guitar and sang an original song, "Alive," before "Idol" judges Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick, Jr. River may appear on this Thursday's episode on KADN FOX 15 so, be sure to tune to see if he get's his "Golden Ticket" to Hollywood Week. To find out more about what's coming up with him visit his Facebook page and on Twitter.
Recently, River was added to the lineup for Le Festival de Mardi Gras a Lafayette - the Mardi Gras fair at Cajun Field in Lafayette Saturday, February 14th, Valentine's Day. His band will hit the stage right after Lil Nathan & The Zydeco Big Timers Fan & Music Page from 8:30p-9:30p and The Atlanta Rhythm Section will follow his band.

It's a free show so, go check it out and support a local musician on the rise.

-Matt@1063RL
UPDATE: RIVER GIBSON MAKES IT THROUGH TO HOLLYWOOD WEEK ON IDOL!
Jan 21, 2015 -- 9:18am
UPDATE 2-10-15: It was confirmed that River Gibson was elimnated during Hollywood week of American Idol. He was seen briefly on the show but it was unclear whether or not his group he was auditioning with made it through. I spoke with River yesterday about his experience and he said that he really "enjoyed being apart of the Idol experience" and that he "appreciates all the support from everyone here in Acadiana." He mentioned that he was going to move forward with his music and keep "shooting for the stars." You can catch River in performace next at Le Festival de Mardi Gras a Lafayette - the Mardi Gras fair at Cajun Field in Lafayette Saturday, February 14th, Valentine's Day. His band will hit the stage right after Lil Nathan & The Zydeco Big Timers Fan & Music Page from 8:30p-9:30p and The Atlanta Rhythm Section will follow his band. To find out more about what's coming up with him visit his Facebook page and on Twitter. - 106.3 Radio Lafayette

Sharing the cover of the Teche News with Hunter Hayes. Read at: https://www.facebook.com/rivergibson/photos/a.314029888646791.67825.118604731522642/792891304093978/?type=1&theater - The Teche News

Breaux Bridge musician River Gibson impressed the judges on American Idol and made it to ‘Hollywood Week,’ appearing onstage at the Orpheum Theater in Los Angeles. While it doesn’t appear River was selected to continue on the show, his musical career is far from over.
River, freshly 20 years old and former member of local rock group TANDEM, has shared the stage with an impressive array of national acts including Gavin Degraw, Aranda, Hinder, Trapt , Sevendust, Saving Abel, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, 10 Years, Pop Evil, Nothing More , 12 Stones, Taproot, 3 Pill Morning and many more. River has also performed all over Louisiana, including multiple shows at the House of Blues in New Orleans and Festival International 2014.
River sang an original song titled “Alive” in the New Orleans audition, but it was not aired on TV. River will be performing Saturday, February 14, 2015 at Le Festival de Mardi a’ Lafayette from 8:30-9:30, right after Lil Nathan & the Zydeco Big Timers and right before The Atlanta Rhythm Section.
We wish River continued success in the future and hope to see more of him soon! You can keep up with River via his Facebook and Twitter pages.


Read More: Breaux Bridge's River Gibson: American Idol And Beyond | http://999ktdy.com/breaux-bridges-river-gibson-american-idol-and-beyond/?trackback=tsmclip - 99.9 KTDY

A gig at the House of Blues is high on the bucket list of many bands. TANDEM, a Lafayette-based indie rock/pop band, has been there, done that and they're about to do it again.

Not bad for musicians still in their teens, with the eldest member at the ripe old age of 24.

It didn't hurt that TANDEM brought two chartered buses, filled with more than 200 fans, to its HOB debut in New Orleans last December. Fans are filling the buses for the return gig April 19.

"That was probably one of the best nights in our lives," said lead singer and guitarist River Gibson, 19. "Every musician wants to play at the House of Blues.

"It was crazy being over there and most of the people there were our fans too. It was like a dream."

Two House of Blues gigs in four months is just part of the whirlwind success for TANDEM, a group that's been together for just two years. The band is celebrating with another peachy gig when it plays Festival International de Louisiane at 8 p.m. April 26 at the LUS Biergarten.

Last month, TANDEM beat six bands to win the King of the Bayou competition at The Station Live in Broussard. The victory put their single, "Satisfy," in regular rotation on KRDJ Rock 93.7 FM. They also won the local headliner spot for Crouchstock 2014.

TANDEM has served as an opening act for Sevendust, Aranda, Taproot and other national acts.

TANDEM members include Gibson, Kevin Trosper (lead guitar), Paul Martin (bass) and Kirkland Middleton (drums). The band's high-energy shows have lots of fans talking.

"We really concentrate a lot on our live performances and I think that's really catching on," said Gibson, a music business major at UL. "A lot of it is word out mouth. People come out and they have a good time with us.

"We're happy about that. And we're happy that people are happy."

Gibson remains happy about that fateful day eight years ago, when he was 11 years old. He heard Green Day's "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" at a friend's house and was mesmerized.

"I really didn't have any interest in music at all. But because of that song, I wanted to be just like the singer in Green Day. I picked up the guitar, taught myself and started singing. I wanted to be in a band."

Last May, TANDEM released "Bright Nights," a 6-song EP recorded at Blade Studio in Shreveport. Renowned drummer Brady Blade, who has played and toured with Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan and Dave Matthews, owns the studio. Chris Bell, a Grammy-winning producer who has worked with U2, Erykah Badu, The Eagles and other stars, engineered the project.

Gibson met Blade following an "American Idol" audition in Shreveport. Blade has served as a key mentor to the band.

"He really took his time with the record and shaped it to the best of its ability. He's guided us with songwriting.

"One of the biggest things he said is simplicity is the best thing you can have. All great songs are very simple. All the chords have been done before. It's just how you do them. "

TANDEM is striking the right chords early in their career. They aim to keep the beat going for a long time.

"Music is what we want to do for a living. It takes time and a lot of effort. But it's definitely what we want to do with our lives. We play music at every free moment of our lives."

Herman Fuselier is food and culture editor for the Times of Acadiana and Daily Advertiser. Contact him at hfuselier@theadvertiser.com. - The Daily Advertiser

Four Lafayette, LA natives came together in 2012 to form a pop rock band that quickly grew a large fan-base and has recently been opening for big names like Gavin Degraw and Hinder.
The band is made up of four friends who are looking to, “Help people have a good time and
be happy,” according to lead guitarist Kevin Trosper.
The band has played many local shows since its formation, but has recently had the opportunity to open for big name artists.
“We’ve been trying to take gig opening for larger bands so that it ensures a larger possible
Kevin Trosper from TANDEM Blue Bayou Summer Concert Series
Kevin Trosper from TANDEM Blue Bayou Summer Concert Series
fan base,” said the band’s lead vocalist, River Gibson.
For Tropser, the experience of playing with bigger bands has been surreal.
“We drove by Blue Bayou and saw our name come up on the electronic sign with Gavin Degraw. It’s nice to have your name on the same sign as these big names.”
Wherever the band is playing, they make it a point to bring lots of energy to their live performance.
“We have a huge live stage energy. That’s what sets us apart. We’re very interactive in the crowd. We have a stage chemistry that’s hard to come by,” said Gibson.
Crowd enjoys TANDEM's River Gibson in the crowd.
Crowd enjoys TANDEM’s River Gibson in the crowd.
While the band works hard to bring their A-game to every performance they also invest a lot into the recording process.
“It’s really interesting. A lot of times I’ll sit down at home on an acoustic guitar and I’ll think of everything by myself. I’ll start banging on my drums and playing on my guitar. Or River
Kirkland Middleton on drums in Baton Rouge, LA Photo: Kevin Ste Marie
Kirkland Middleton on drums in Baton Rouge, LA Photo: Kevin Ste Marie
may be alone trying to think of these things. When we put the band together to practice everything, a lot of times it’s different then how we envisioned it. Everyone gives their input and it all crosses and becomes a final product,” said Trosper.
One member of the band has recently thrown his name into the ring for a contest that could put the band on the national radar.
To Gibson the possibilities for the band are limitless.
“The sky is the limit and we’re not going anywhere anytime soon.”
Tandem’s next live performance will be on August 30 at Luna Live in Lake Charles, open for 12 Stones at The Station LIVE in Broussard, LA
Like TANDEM on facebook by clicking here
Below is TANDEM with an acoustic performance from Balcony TV in New Orleans, LA - Live and Local Acadiana

Read at: http://www.tandemband.com/dox/20140118-techenews.pdf - The Teche News

Many Acadiana residents traveled to a live music concert Friday Night to support local rock alternative group TANDEM. The group arranged chartered transport for many fans who were ready to participate for a fee that also included a ticket price. Fans arrived at The House of Blues in New Orleans, LA at around 8:30pm. Many fans (just off the bus) were met by the band members; River Gibson, Kevin Trosper, Paul Martin, and Kirkland Middleton. TANDEM delivered an amazing performance selling out of tickets just before the
TANDEM fans arriving at The House of Blues
TANDEM fans arrive at The House of Blues New Orleans, LA
show. “The Night” was perfect for the energetic local band. Great music, safe travel, and smart promotion all were tied together perfectly. Great Job Guys!
If you have not heard of The Rock Band TANDEM, then you may want to take the time to enjoy their music. Live and Local has followed this band since they first heard them at a show donating their time for a local benefit over a year ago. Remembering that day, I remembered the energy on stage. Every show I have made it to TANDEM brings a 110% amazing performance! It is clear to see why the band enjoys playing Live! This was no change last night, as I watched TANDEM bring another amazing performance to The House of Blues in New Orleans, LA. The show NOLA ROCKS was arranged by The House of Blues to bring attention to Live Music with a local approach. All bands picked up some new fans as well as some great experience. The talent on stage spanned from many local cities; TANDEM from Lafayette, LA, Mandelay from Houma, LA, First Fracture from Hammond, LA, and Cathercist from Gulfport, MS. All bands brought an amazing performance. Best of Luck from Live And Local in the future in rock!
Below is a video of TANDEM on stage showing this was no joke! Click and enjoy! - Acadiana Business Network

TANDEM hails from Lafayette, LA and was one of the first bands we featured on #LAONAIR with Bray J. While they are reserved and might be seen as a low key band, River Gibson and his band mates are pressing hard to make it to another level in music. Since we learned of them, we have been able to support them in their endeavors to perform on some big stages meaning a huge stake. They have performed at the House of Blues in New Orleans, in numerous venues throughout Acadiana and were featured on BalconyTV which is a huge deal.

Formed in Lafayette in 2012, this four-piece rock/pop band as they describe themselves, released their debut EP 'Bright Nights' in the summer of 2013. The EP features six songs.

You along with other HeyBrayJ supporters voted and the most votes went to TANDEM, making them the fourth #LAONAIRArtistoftheWeek. Congrats: River, Kevin, Paul & Kirkland!

Check out their debut EP released in the summer of 2013 titled 'Bright Nights'. - Heybrayj.com

The local band Tandem has been around for 1 year in Acadiana. They have big plans says front man River Gibson. The band; Kevin Trosper – guitar, Matt Dubea – Drums, and new bass player Paul Martin have played local Acadiana venues and charity events this year and it seems the more people hear what Tandem brings to the table,

River Gibson and Paul Martin show some enthusiasm on stage
the larger the crowd grows also. This all started with River Gibson and Matt Duvea playing music. Just playing around with cover songs at home and it eventually started a more creative approach with writing their own music, and continuing to get a little more creative with some of their favorite covers.
After speaking to River Gibson about the approach the band will take he agreed that building Tandem has been very serious business. “Making sure everything comes together is hard work, but the payoff is worth it!”
After one year, Tandem has now worked hard and will be going into Blade Studios to record their new EP Release “Bright Nights” A 6 song original CD which has been very anticipated by the band. Blade Studios in Shreveport, LA ran by Brady Blade. Blade has a very good reputation as a musician. He was the former drmmer for the Dave Matthews Band and has been classified as one of the most requested house drummers in the world. Blade also has a stunning background as a producer, so we are expecting to hear great things from this new EP from Tandem. The EP will be released within the next month. The band starts recording 2 weeks from today’s date.

Kevin Trosper and Matt Dubea on Stage
I asked River Gibson out of all the songs on the new EP is their one that has a strong meaning to him? He replied that is was “The Night.” The new song is about not wanting to be alone for the night. Basically saying it’s Tandem’s way of saying can you come over tonight I miss you. The rest you can figure out for yourself. The band will also have a videographer on hand documenting the process of recording. With random updates on the bands facebook page. It should be something to follow if you are a fan.
Before we completed this discussion, I asked River what was something that he could reflect on after the first year of being the front man for a very good band Tandem; as well as a high school senior in Acadiana. His reply was, “promoting yourself, and trying to stay focused. He also added some advice for those just starting. Keep the energy high always within the band.” We then asked what he has learned from the past year. In his own words, “We used to play as a cover band, always played covers – and now feel it has payed off, Tandem now feels like it was from jamming to covers when we had nothing, that helped us to understand each other as musicians and performers. It’s showed what we can do to do better.” And we couldn’t agree more. ~LAL – Best of luck.
Live and Local Acadiana is very happy to have been able to have heard Tandem at various local function and help with showing their talent. We also suggest if you enjoy a high-energetic local band This may be a band to see. They are not joking around, they are the real deal when it comes to booking an energetic rock band locally. It was a pleasure to help.
This Saturday, Tandem has a show at Grant Street Dance-hall. The opening band will be 3sided and Tandem will come on at 10PM. Then Iridium will following all sets will be an hour and the cover for the night will be $5. Go out and see some great local bands. - Acadiana Business Network

Local Alternative Rock Band “Tandem” is on the way to making it big with hits like single “Satisfy” from their recent EP release of “The Night.” Along the way they decided to give back to local children from this weeks “ASA Rock Camp.” The camp is one two band members River Gibson and Matthew Dubea remember as children, also as fellow rock campers. The band played an 8 song set and showed the group what it was like during an actual Rock Concert experience. This was also complete by throwing shirts and also by signing autographs after the show.
Awesome performance and awesome way to show a future generation of musicians a great experience.
Among the performances will be Grammy Winner “Wayne Toups,” & on Friday a large performance by the students of Rock Camp on Friday at 5:30pm.
Live and Local will be there to show some of the excitement and are also looking forward to the future generations of musicians in Acadiana.
If you would like to follow Tandem please click here to visit them on the bands website. You can also vote for their new video “The Night” on “The Beat 100 by clicking here.
Look for more of Tandem in the future. Great Sound, Great Original Lyrics, & A Positive Message. We wish you the best in success from Live and Local! Hear part of the performance below by clicking play! - Acadiana Business Network

Band made up of local boys around Acadiana celebrating their new album and high school graduation
Brittany Bodden

Friday, May 24, 2013 - 2:09pm
LAFAYETTE, LA (KADN) — Tandem, a local band made up of local boys from Acadiana is ending one chapter of their lives and starting another. The band is made up of the drummer, Matthew Dubea who is graduating from Lafayette High School tomorrow, Kevin Trosper the guitarist who is graduating from Comeaux High School tomorrow, the lead singer River Gibson who is also graduating from Lafayette High tomorrow, and their new bass player Paul Martin. After graduating, Tandem is opening tomorrow night on the big stage for Cajun Heartland. This performance just so happens to coincide with the release of their very first album called Bright Nights.

"It's so exciting, cause you wait to graduate forever, and then we've been working so hard and so long on our album and it's coming out too! It's going to be a huge crowd, and it's an awesome show..it's intense," says lead singer River Gibson.

The boys will head straight over to the stage after their graduation for their opening performance where they will perform songs from their new album along with different covers everyone knows and loves. They will start up at 8 p.m. tomorrow night so be sure to come out for community support of Acadiana's own young, local talent as they celebrate both their graduation and new album release! - FOX 15 KADN