Rockus Circus

By Jessica Sinn - April 26, 2007

Pirates growl and performers will entice the crowd to get up and dance at a Triple Crown CD release party.

Independent rock band Rockus Circus will showcase songs from debut album, Welcome to the Circus at midnight Saturday.

Andrew Howard, lead vocalist and guitarist, said the album reflects musical influences from a diverse mix of genres.

Howard, mass communication senior, said while some songs are humorous, he strives to create sounds reminiscent of classic rock artists such as The Beatles, Van Morrison, The Police and Queen.

“We like to joke around a lot, we cut up on stage, and we’re not afraid to do songs about pirates,” Howard said. “And at the same time, we aren’t afraid to write songs with beautiful, wilting melodies and really soft sounds like a lot of our influences.”

Junior Scott, bassist and vocalist, said performing the song “Pirate” is a surefire way to pump the crowd with energy and laughter.

“Even on a dead night, you can tell people really like that song because after the applause dies down, you’ll hear people go ‘arrr,’” Scott said.

Howard said the band latched on to the circus idea because it reflects its fusion of diverse sounds and upbeat stage-show.

“When you think of a circus, you think of a show and variety, so we liked the idea of using the word circus,” Howard said.

Scott said he wants to inspire the audience to dance.

“I think rock and roll should be fun, there should be sad moments for sure because life has sad moments, but if it’s all about the sadness, it seems like two hours of the wrong kind of energy you want to have at a show,” Scott said.

Scott said he draws his inspiration from artists who are able to create dark lyrics with positive undertones.

“It seems like there’s a positive thread that runs through all the Beatles’ songs, even if they’re singing ‘Maxwell’s Silver Hammer,’ somehow there’s this underlying positive feel. I’m hoping we can do that with our music.”

Scott said the band needed more instrumentation and movement, so it added Adam Peterson on keyboard and guitar. Scott said Peterson, biochemistry graduate student, has a background in soundtrack work and has a knack for creating a theatrical atmosphere.

“Each guy brings something different to the band, and he’s really our instrumental virtuoso,” Scott said. “That guy can tear it up on piano and guitar.”

Scott said drummer C.J. Gore attempts to share his energy with the crowd.

Gore’s alter ego comes to life mid-show.

“The single young women will just have to meet Johnny Ballistic — he’s a very charming but dangerous guy,” Scott said. “He brings the fire — if you want to describe him by using psychology terms, he’s the id unleashed.”

Opening rock bands People Skills and Robbie and the Robots are slated to perform 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Howard said people should come early to see Robbie and the Robots.

“Their show is going to be great. It’s totally super-fun music, great melodies and debauched lyrics,” Howard said. “You’ll feel really dirty after listening to the lyrics, but I promise you — it’s worth it.”

Robbie Doyen, Robbie and the Robots’ lead vocalist and guitarist, said people should come experience his band’s energetic and interactive stage show.

“The songs are tragic comedies, funny stuff about bad things that happen in my life, so I just try to make the best of it by turning it into music,” Doyen said.

Triple Crown is now 18 and up.

Rockus Circus CDs can be purchased at Hastings Sundance and at the event.

- The University Star, Texas State University - San Marcos

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