Ifdakar's pursuit of musical growth and experimental improvisation create an experience not to be forgotten. Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, this five piece band has garnered recognition for their live performances, where the band channels elements of psychedelic rock, funk, jazz, and electronica. The result is a mind bending, dance infused, pedal to the metal sound that it is unmistakably their own. ]]> When: Thu. February 9 5:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up. Event Will Run From 5:00 - 7:00pm

]]> When: Thu. February 9 9:00PM
Cost: $8 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Afrobeat’s range of influences — funk, rock, jazz, afro-cuban, high life and juju music – settle into a hypnotic, dance-compelling pulse at the core of CAbP. The group layers a fiery originality around this core through high-energy rock and experimental jazz. The trance-like grooves that hold the floor in the tradition are pushed to new borders in CAbP’s second and self-produced album, (A) Move to Silent Unrest. In it, the group keeps true to the mix of respect to the tradition and forward-thinking experimentation that shine through in their live performances.

Prjkt Timbukale will be performing in support of Chicago Afrobeat Project. ]]> When: Fri. February 10 7:00PM
Cost: $15 cover / $13 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Harmonies - if you had to describe the music of Girlyman in one word, this would be it. The story doesn't end there, of course: the band blends modern acoustic, americana, and folk-rock into a musical recipe The Village Voice has called "really good, really unexpected, and really different."

Have a listen to their song, “Joyful Sign”. ]]> When: Fri. February 10 9:30PM
Cost: $7 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Prince Paul from the hills of Jamaica part time hills of Duluth is on the Road with the Conscious Party to spread the LOVE WORLD WIDE with REGGAE

Dubbed by the press as a "reggae hybrid", Nama Rupa's three members offer a fresh blend of conscious, reggae dub with strong funk and hip hop undertones. Eclectic beats, catchy melodies and a psychedelic vibe keep fans dancing; while the lyrics, flowing from self-reflective to socially critical, keep them thinking. .. Whether fast or slow, the songs are always groovin' and Nama Rupa is sure to keep any venue on their feet, dancing and thirsty!

DJ Trichrome is a rarity in todays DJ scene. While most DJs are using computers to match their beats and mash-up tunes with the click of a mouse, Trichrome is spinning vintage reggae, dub, and dancehall on 7″ vinyl. His crates are deep and he’s got the skills to pay the bills. Trichrome’s high-energy analogue sound speaks to the soul.

]]> When: Sat. February 11 9:30PM
Cost: $15 cover / $13 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

The Heartless Bastards' success rests largely on the talents of lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter Erika Wennerstrom, who's long been a standout purveyor of raw garage rock. Her husky, powerhouse delivery defines the sound of the group.

Here they are, performing their song, “Marathon”.

Hacienda is a Mexican-American quartet blends a raw yet sophisticated style of pop music with harmonies reminiscent of the Beatles and Beach Boys. As fate would have it, a demo of 6 songs landed in the hands of Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys, and the band's life was forever changed. Soon after they were opening for The Black Keys in Austin Texas, as well as for Dr. Dog, gaining some much needed exposure. Under Auerbach's watch, Hacienda would write and arrange more than twenty songs, sending him demos periodically in preparation for their debut album, ultimately recording in Dan's own studio in Akron, Ohio.

Little Legend’ was established, and the songs that developed evolved into shameless rock ‘n’ roll with touches of blues, 1960s pop, and a few shots of Southern whiskey. With the help of a drum and bass section, they are currently performing shows in the Midwest and planning a national tour to coincide with the release of their five-song E.P. in spring of 2012. ]]> When: Sun. February 12 5:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

WORT's very own Wake Up fUTURISTIC appears weekly on the LISTENER SPONSORED airwaves of Mad, Wis. 2A-5A Wednesdays between the Leopard Print Lounge and The Musical Offering. we here of w.u.f. are into expanding your mind and broadening your musical horizons. we want to fill your souls with music and love. we aim to please and inspire. dance, laugh, cry, FEEL something, anything!

Liberated from their "real" bands, the Low Czars pound out some strange set-lists and make the kids dance and scratch their heads, thus creating a race of super-educated fans who will boogie to the sounds of the mighty Swamp Dogg.

Bes Monde is a new band to the Madison area. Been playing together since the spring of 2011. As of right now we have a few rough cut songs recorded, two of which are here for you to sample. More to come as soon as we find the time. ]]> When: Mon. February 13 5:00PM
Cost: $20 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. The $20 is a suggested donation

One year long.

Nearly one year ago the people of Wisconsin stood up against Scott Walker's attacks on working and middle class families. We rallied at the capitol and started a truly amazing, people-powered movement that even Walker and his wealthy cronies didn't see coming.

One million strong.

On January 17th, people from across the state turned in over 1,000,000 signatures to recall Scott Walker for his dishonest and shameful policies.

The one year anniversary marking the beginning of the largest recall effort in United States is just a few weeks away. And we need you to help celebrate our accomplishments over this past year! Please join the Democratic Party of Wisconsin as we celebrate with live music, food, and a cash bar.

While Scott Walker is gallivanting around the country raising dirty corporate cash, the people of Wisconsin are powering this movement. Pledge your time, make a donation of $20 or more, or do both to keep us moving forward.

If you have any questions, please contact Julie at (608) 260-2429 or e-mail julieb@wisdems.org. Let's finish what we've started and recall Scott Walker! We hope to see you there!

Event will run 5:00 - 7:00pm ]]> When: Mon. February 13 8:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

ACW’s music has been called “seasonal-affective basement county…a slow burn codeine haze..a journey from mournful to explosive and back again” A spirit of experimentation and a nothing is sacred attitude reigns. The result is engaging storytelling set to an unconventional score. A Catapult Western is not your typical cookie-cutter band. In fact, their delivery could be categorized as loose and strange. I also find it unique and wonderful. Here, you have a group of musicians who could care less what conventional music lovers think. They are in this for the art and the music.

Croaker plays a gnarly and gritty blend of music, like what you would get if you put Tom Waits, Little Feat, Morcheeba and Booker T and the MG's in a blender set on high, then poured it out over ice with lime and bitters and Everclear.

Burning Willows is an acoustic / folk / rock / bluegrass band out of Madison, WI. With original songs like Last Pack of Smokes and Treasure Hunter, Burning Willows sounds reminiscent of the darker country style made popular by Johnny Cash's Ghost Riders in the Sky and Long Black Veil. But then they turn you around and throw you into an epic journey of fantasy to give Lord of the Rings a run in songs like The Tides in Return. Classic folk rock, traditional instrumental folk and romantic bluegrass... ]]> When: Tue. February 14 6:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Tiny Band and Thee Rule will performing for the High Noon Saloon audience on Valentines Day! Doors for this show open at 6:00PM. ]]> When: Tue. February 14 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Wed. February 15 8:00PM
Cost: $17 cover / $15 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Charles Bradley sing old-school soul, howling so loud and proud that you'll think the ghost of James Brown has entered the building. Discovered at the age of 62 by Daptones records, Charles Bradley takes his life of hard knocks & leaves it all on the stage for one of the most amazing & soulful performances you'll ever see.

Here he is, wailing on his song, “Golden Rule”.

Little Barrie is a London-based trio whose sound is an exciting blend of hard rock, blues, soul, and funk that calls to mind classic bands of the '60s like Traffic and Cream, and whose loose and groovy earthiness earns it a place near the front of the jam band class. ]]> When: Thu. February 16 9:00PM
Cost: $18 cover / $16 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Like so many great songwriters before, from Lightening Hopkins to Bob Dylan and beyond, Francis uses his gifted wordplay for a much greater good, creating vivid narratives and heartfelt confessionals which both instigate and inspire. Although the 10+ years of touring and DIY work ethic have proven highly successful, Sage Francis has announced that he's putting the road-dog days behind him in order to focus on other things which include (but are not exclusive to) writing, recording, producing, journalizing, and disproving the rumors that he is hip-hop's anti-Christ. Francis will still perform a select few shows each year, as long as his cat gives him permission. That's just how it's gotta be.

Here’s his video for the song, “Love the Lie”.

Kristoff Krane’s distinctive blend of message-driven lyrics, delivered over organic composition and carefully sampled beats, demands attention. A natural born teacher and poet, Krane’s lyrics connect our similarities rather than pointing out our differences, “… an artist finding resolve through expression”. Whether rapping over a beat, singing over a piano, or creating a song, live, through a loop-pedal with his audience

METERMAIDS, a Brooklyn-based duo consisting of emcees Sentence and Swell, often refer to themselves as “the Bad News Bears of hip-hop.” However, after teaming up with the X-Ecutioners DJ Rob Swift, receiving production from Grammy Award Winner 9th WONDER, and pulling in vocal contributions from indie-hop legends SAGE FRANCIS & BUCK 65, their “ROOFTOP SHAKE” LP is set to turn that self-deprecation on its head. ]]> When: Fri. February 17 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. February 17 9:30PM
Cost: $18 cover / $15 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

This is a band that has made tremendous progress since it was formed almost ten years ago. Its members have always had an impressive ability both to generate heavy roots-wise grooves and to incorporate elements of hip-hop and even go-go music (the band hails from Washington, DC) into those grooves without undermining their appeal.

Here’s the video for “Strength To Survive,” from the soon-to-be-released album of the same name.

Enter the Philadelphia quartet known as The Movement. Rock, Reggae and Hip Hop: Each is definable, recognizable and at once familiar to people the world over--but never before have those three forms of musical expression been blended into a sound that is as indefinable as it is recognizable and familiar.

Kid's These Days songs' sometimes verge on unwieldiness, cramming together everything from blues and soul to hip-hop and jazz, but the distinctive vocalists, strutting horns and swinging rhythms keep things on course. ]]> When: Sat. February 18 10:00AM
Cost: no cover
Additional Info: Family-Friendly Event. Event Will Run From 10:00am - 4:00pm

Ritz Crafters is a brand new show on the Madison craft scene, showcasing classy crafters bringing the best in handmade. Leave the glue at home, and put away those stamps. Paint, print, sculpt, knit, sew, paper-make - choose your weapon, we are masters of our domain.

Ritz Crafters is setting out to celebrate good design and unique concepts. Over 25 vendors from Madison and beyond will be in house with handmade accessories, apparel, paper goods, and much more. The first 50 buying shoppers will snag a swanky Ritz Crafters tote! ]]> When: Sat. February 18 10:00PM
Cost: $7 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up. $10 cover after 11:00pm

Star Persons launches their Kickstarter.com campaign as well as introduces a full set of crowd pleasing covers to kick the night off, followed by Kyle & Keem, and finishing the night with a set of Star Persons originals accompanied by a full video/light show provided by A.I. Lighting & Sound.

Star Persons are Electro Rap Pop. They bring dance-heavy beats, athletic raps, and hot hooks. They were voted 2011’s New Artist of the Year by the Madison Area Music Awards, and they’ve been releasing free music every week for over a year online. To culminate their series of three albums released online, they will be launching a Kickstarter.com campaign to raise funds for their first official release accompanied by a national radio campaign.

Kyle & Keem have already established themselves as a very talented and commercially viable duo. Their single “Amazing” received heavy airplay on 93.1 JAMz. The future is bright for these young songwriters, whose claim to be “just two young dudes trying to make it” rings true. ]]> When: Sun. February 19 8:00PM
Cost: $14 cover / $12 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Shearwater's improbably grand sound is built out of feedback, strings and woodwinds, horns, harp, and a homemade hammered dulcimer. It's a heartbreakingly beautiful sound with a sense of urgent abandon, as though bursting from an imagined world about to disappear forever.

Coo Woo is a five-piece band that went from barely existing to being a bonafide “buzz band” in the course of a few months late last year. Scott Anderson, the main creative force behind the group, is a British import, but the other four members are all from Wisconsin, and the band currently calls Milwaukee home.

As long as this kind of music makes me want to dance, and, more importantly, makes girls want to dance, then it’s doing its job. Coo Woo is making that happen, and adding some serious musical knowledge and attitude on top of that as well. ]]> When: Sun. February 19 11:00AM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: Family-Friendly Event. $8 per child / under 2 years admitted free

Everyone has fun at a Fox and Branch show. That has been the duo’s guiding principle for the past decade, especially since performing for children and parents became their main focus. Dave Fox and Will Branch strive to create a communal atmosphere of fun and high spirits wherever they play. Audience members are invited to sing along, to dance, and to come onstage to try their hand at the washboard and other musical instruments. Fox and Branch consider themselves to be working in the tradition of great children’s performers like Pete Seeger and Ella Jenkins. A Fox and Branch show is as much a celebration of being together as it is a musical performance. ]]> When: Tue. February 21 6:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Baja, Mexico-based—by way of Minneapolis—guitarist Todd Clouser and his band, A Love Electric, make their Royal Potato Family recording debut with 20th Century Folk Selections. The album, which is part of a series of releases planned for 2012 by the much buzzed about young jazz artist, collects eight interpretations of songs he calls “folkloric in nature.” Ranging from his anthemic take on protest singer Malvina Reynolds “Little Boxes” to a psychedelicized, guitar freak out on the Beastie Boys iconic “Gratitude,” Clouser displays a muso’s appreciation of songs and styles through the lens of jazz-inspired improvisation. His reading of Neil Young’s “The Needle And The Damage Done” deconstructs its haunted melody to uncover even deeper sorrow in the storyteller’s tale, while a gorgeous straight-ahead take on Nirvana’s “All Apologies” replaces Kurt Cobain’s classic lyric with the dark moan of a trumpet. Special guests joining A Love Electric on 20th Century Folk Selections include trumpeter Steven Bernstein and percussionist Cyro Baptista.

Todd Clouser—a revered jazz name south of the border in his adopted home of Mexico—spent the majority of 2011 on the road touring the U.S. In doing so, he worked his band into a razor sharp unit capable of telepathically melding jazz finesse spiked with rock energy into its own instantly identifiable sound. As the results captured on 20th Century Folk Selections prove, a major new voice in the idiom is on the rise.

Sporting avant flourishes and grooves galore...Todd Clouser’s A Love Electric liberally mixes jazz, funk and rock with compelling results." - Minneapolis Star Tribune

"An impressive act that relies on fuzzed out acid rock guitars and vintage, laid back funk" - Time Out New York

"If categorized in a record shop, you’d likely find Clouser’s records in the jazz section, but he covers a lot of ground. Some tunes start as straight jazz then develop into a slightly freer situation. There are frenetic pieces that are fascinating in their wildness yet still carry great melodies that hit on several levels." - Vintage Guitar

"Clouser spices the all-American vibe of guitarist Bill Frisell with some Jimi Hendrix fire." - Philadelphia Inquirer

"It's jazz and the blues; it's funk and old-school 70s rock; it's good, damn good music. Turn it on and turn it up." – The Waster ]]> When: Tue. February 21 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Wed. February 22 7:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. The $5 is a suggested donation

Join us to help raise money for a trip to the AOTA 2012 Annual Conference and Expo in Indianapolis in April!

What is occupational therapy? Occupational therapists help individuals across all ages and abilities participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations).

Every year the American Occupational Therapy Association hosts a weekend-long conference for occupational therapy practitioners, students, and researchers in order to build our knowledge, inspire our practice, and better serve our clients and their specific needs. This year we are hoping to send as many students as possible to represent our school and passionate program! We will be requesting a donation of $5 and will be doing a 50/50 raffle that will be announced before our final performer.

Please contact Kira Luoma if you have any questions regarding the event. We look forward to seeing you there!

Everett Thomas seamlessly weaves aggressive folk, Americana and alternative country with an underlying soulfulness and grit accentuated by a lifetime of blues appreciation. "I love Dylan, ya know? And Tom Waits, and Neil Young," the casual but creative Thomas unveils over a cup of coffee. "I think a lot of times those guys can get thrown in the same barrel, but to me they couldn't be more different."

Founded on the idea that genre is a construct alternately embraced and ignored, the Das Binky Recording Collective is John Das Binky, a multi-instrumentalist based in Madison, WI, and a rotating band of collaborators who join him in the battle to create catchy and enduring pop, rock, metal, folk, electronica and whatever else they can think of playing.

Sean Sparrow will be performing at the event as well! The show starts at 7:00 ]]> When: Thu. February 23 9:30PM
Cost: $12 cover / $10 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Prof wants his music to inspire others to party it up with him. In a world where credibility is currency, Prof sticks a middle finger to those who feel hip-hop should be straight-faced and serious..... “Everyone’s trying to be a preacher or a politician— telling you how to live your life,” he says. “I’m not running for Senate. I’m doing this for fun and I don’t watch my mouth. Prof’s debut solo album, Project Gampo, definitely made a lasting impression on local music critics and hip-hop heads. “Prof is wall-to-wall here in all his glory, with clever one-liners out the ass, hyperactive and delicious vocab spills popped like collars- picture a supreme smartass with gorilla swagger and a mouth as fast as his mind… Point blank, this kid’s got more flavor and flow than all five of your favorite MCs combined.

the Bipolar Bear is hardly stable. Sometimes, the Bear hibernates, and sometimes the Bear gets all amped on caffeine and anti-depressants and beats dudes up at the local dive-bar. Swampy-ass guitar driven madness, with angular bass lines and some off-beat drumming create a sound to be reckoned with.

Fall Guys stay true to their classic socio-political content and driven beats coated with a club-friendly sheen that appeals to hip-hop purists, activists and partiers alike. With this eclectic sound, the Fall Guys plan to build a diverse foundation of listeners both in their home town of Madison and on a much broader level. Creating hard hitting music that makes you think: That is the Fall Guys’ mission. ]]> When: Fri. February 24 9:30PM
Cost: $12 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

“When husband-and-wife duo Patrick Riley and Alaina Moore bought a sailboat and packed their bags for an eight-month voyage along the Atlantic coastline, they weren’t planning on turning it into a career in music. As seasoned musicians with a long list of obscure local bands to their credit (the most recognizable act being Riley’s stint in Tigers), documenting the trip in song just seemed natural. Now, back at home in Denver, under the moniker Tennis, the two have found that their Brian Wilson-meets-Daniel Johnston lo-fi pop has even broader appeal than they ever imagined—a lot broader: MP3s of the duo’s songs have turned up on Pitchfork, Gorilla vs. Bear, and a score of other national outlets, a surprising push for a band that seemingly came out of nowhere.” (The Onion A.V. Club)

Here’s the video for their song, “South Carolina.”

Surgeons In Heat effortlessly weave together hints of R&B, easygoing beats and catchy indie rock. They play real breezy pop that pays due diligence to both AM pop and Philadelphia soul, which means it’s both innovative and easily overlooked, because taking two very cookie-cutter pop sounds and fixing them together as one is like operating with an even more cookie-cuttery cookie-cutter pop sound. ]]> When: Sat. February 25 2:00PM
Cost: $12 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up. $7 cover for students with ID

Fight the Injustice, at this Human Trafficking Awareness Event!

5-Stones Presents: Sex Trafficking in Wisconsin: “Awareness Through the Arts.”

Wisconsin has been ranked in the TOP 5 STATES with the highest occurrence of sexual exploitation and trafficking for 10 consecutive years. (TIP Report 2011)

There will also be several speakers giving brief testimonials in between bands, so come, hear some fine music, learn about this little-known issue, and contribute to a worthy cause. Proceeds from the show will go to the establishment of a shelter in Wisconsin for sex trafficking victims, and the production of a Wisconsin-based documentary on Human Trafficking.

The event will run from 2:00-4:00pm.

greenTONE a cappella is an all-female, professional-level contemporary a cappella group based in Madison, WI. We have devoted our vocal talents and contagious sense of fun to serving up pop, folk and jazz favorites, from doo-wop to hip-hop. Our "aca"-adventure began over the fall of 2007 when a few UW Tangled Up In Blue alums got together and decided to form our own group, which is now a part of the Contemporary A cappella League, housed under CASA's umbrella. Since that fall, we have had the privilege of singing for a variety of functions that include weddings, holiday parties, the annual Wisconsin Counties Association Annual Convention, and most notably, a Brewers game at Miller Park where we performed the National Anthem for a sold-out game!

]]> When: Sat. February 25 5:30PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Madison's The Midwest Beat play with jukebox-ready tunes that are mercilessly concise, relentlessly uptempo, and saturated in ooh-ahh vocal harmonies. Not a pop band in the sense of contemporary pop-punk or power pop, mind you. The Midwest Beat live in a chronologically distant world where precise song structures, jangling guitars and tight vocal harmonies ruled the day. Big Star, The Byrds, The Kinks and the Zombies are their regular touchstones, bands whose own careers were at their peak a decade or more before the foursome's members were born.

Bes Monde is a new band to the Madison area. Been playing together since the spring of 2011. As of right now they have a few rough cut songs recorded. ]]> When: Sat. February 25 10:00PM
Cost: $7 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

he Gusto is a dangerous four-headed beast. Its roar is a harmonious orgy of pain and shredding, much to the delight of its young, drug addicted fan-base. But it was not always this way. The Gusto was once four young lads, leading totally separate lives in scenic Wisconsin. As children, they had all in their own way come to the realization that they were too cool to be cops, too stupid to be doctors and too sexy to be lawyers. This left only one viable career option: a hard rocking melodic punk band. Through a series of events too magical and mysterious to ever be retold, they met and fell in love with each other. Now they live as one, spreading rock so liberally as to give onlookers cause to liken it to butter. Should the Gusto grace your ear-space, buckle up and prepare for some gnarly shit.

Funrod is Punk Rock in Madison, Wisconsin.

The American Dead is The collective effort of 4 friends to do something new for themselves in an attempt to create something others enjoy as well.

Kyle WK wil be performing for the High Noon Saloon audience tonight. The event will begin around 10:00PM ]]> When: Mon. February 27 5:00PM
Cost: no cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. February 28 6:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Sonically and dynamically speaking, Ghost Town Council can rumble like a freight train, or amble by like tumbleweed at a four-way stop. The Ghost Town Special makes stops everywhere between Woody Guthrie to Wilco -- Pete Seeger to Old Crow Medicine Show -- Roy Orbison to The Felice Brothers and all broken towns on the main line run. We Hear them All! If you enjoy the spirits, bow to the altar of Americana and care at all for the children, make a special trip to the shows tab and join us for what is sure to be a night (or day). ]]> When: Tue. February 28 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Wed. February 29 8:00PM
Cost: $10 cover / $8 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Memoryhouse is a Canadian dream pop duo with a lo-fi style. Hailing from Guelph, Ontario, Canada, the duo was founded in 2009 by photographer Denise Nouvion (vocals) and classical composer Evan Abeele (production) and is now on the Sub-Pop label. They named themselves after classical composer Max Richter's 2001 album of the same name and cite influences that include My Bloody Valentine, Galaxie 500, and Cocteau Twins. Memoryhouse made their recording debut in 2009 with "To the Lighthouse." ]]> When: Thu. March 1 8:00PM
Cost: $10 cover / $8 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Consider them a musical mystery which still manages to sound both fresh and familiar. Whatever you choose to think going in, Daniel and the Lion will control the space between your ears for as long as you listen before managing to force yourself to pull away. This is music for anyone who loves bands from Stephen Kellogg’s Sixers to Ryan Adams, competently recorded by a band which knows how to craft a pop-laden hook without selling out to lowest common denominator bullshit.

et it snap, let it roll, hand claps, drums crash,, tele-tones and solos. Somewhere between a bar and the recording studio, Miles Nielsen's stirs up his own pop rock brand of Beatles-eque Cosmic Americana. Pop rock arrangements and sunny melodies tucked between a long lost country folk steel guitar floating through speakers around crashing drums, bouncing bass lines and smooth as butter keys. Born in Rockford, IL, home of Cheap Trick and 'Symbol', power pop DNA runs through the veins of his songs and performances.

Cait And The Girls are a Madison-based, five piece band that started from a 'white lie' and an extensive amount of self-expectations. The accompanied tracks prove why Cait And The Girls will establish themselves as a mainstay in the Midwestern music community. ]]> When: Fri. March 2 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

This happy hour version of Rock Star Gomeroke really rocks! Come sing your favorite songs with The Gomers and take the edge off of your work week with 2 for 1 rail drinks and select taps. Check out the band's extensive song list in advance at www.thegomers.net, or there will be songbooks available when you arrive. Added bonus: Singers get a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. March 2 9:30PM
Cost: $15 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

“He’s (Dave Alvin) old and battered and records unfashionable blues and hillbilly songs for a small label, but Dave Alvin is as good a lyricist as any these days. That’s evident on his new album, “Eleven Eleven,” where his sharp-eyed stories of the past are steeled by a hard-rocking rhythm section and his electric guitar.” Washington Post

SAM LLANAS, formerly of the popular Wisconsin band BoDeans, will open the show with his new band. ]]> When: Sat. March 3 6:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Sat. March 3 10:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Orphan Bloom is a group of musicians influenced by genres as diverse as blues, heavy metal, jazz fusion, classical Indian and European music, and acoustic fingerstyle, working to forge a style that is both related to but distinct from the music we love: Dynamic, Melodic, Engaging, Visceral. ]]> When: Sat. March 3 12:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. The $5 is a suggested donation

Event Will Run From 12:00 - 4:00pm.

A five piece band from Madison, Modern Mod is full of energy. It all started when Corinne, Livy, Dan, and Emma met at the Madison Music Foundry in October of 2010. They played venues such as The Loft, Bratfest, and Launchpad. In June of 2011, they were joined by guitarist Cal. In August, they headed into Madison Media Institute to create a demo. Since then they have been planning shows, writings songs, and looking forward to a bright future.

The Daze are an Indie alt. rock band based in and currently residing in Madison, Wisconsin.

Sam Lyons is a 16 year old singer/musician/songwriter from Madison, Wisconsin. Sam also fronts and writes for the bands Stereocolor and Moon Jelly, both of which are two time Launchpad Finalists. Sam is a member of the Isthmus High School Jazz All Stars and has performed at Madison's Overture Center, the Wisconsin Union Theater, Milwaukee's Summerfest and more. Sam is also a 5 time MAMA (Madison Area Music Award) winner. ]]> When: Sun. March 4 2:00PM
Cost: $12 cover
Additional Info: Family-Friendly Event. 4-pack of tickets available for $40

]]> When: Mon. March 5 7:30PM
Cost: $8 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Andreas was commissioned by Notre Dame to compose a soundtrack for the 1926 animated film, The Adventures of Prince Achmed, the oldest surviving full-length animated feature. The story is taken from “The Arabian Nights”, telling the tale of the noble Prince Achmed and his series of wondrous adventures. The project was such a success, the Guitar Duo has been touring with it since.

Andreas and Goran begin with the main musical structures and ideas for the film in place, but as the show proceeds, they also feed off the energy of the audience to create a unique and original score in the moment. Expect an evening of immediate and intense creativity, and magical entertainment!

After the performance, Andreas & Goran will host a Question & Answer session on how to compose music for film.

"Combining the sounds of steel- and nylon-string acoustic guitars in a stew seasoned with multifinger attacks, percussive beats, and heavy Serbian and Greek influences, Kapsalis and Ivanovic have created one tasty experimental dish… Kapsalis’s two-handed steel-string parts frequently create the illusion of three guitars instead of two… Ivanovic is no slouch on the nylon, either, wringing out lithe melodic lines throughout."

- Guitar Player Magazine ]]> When: Tue. March 6 6:30PM
Cost: $4 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Dirty Shirts remind one of Madison's Cork n' Bottle String Band. Both bands play traditional roots styles and make entertaining live shows their focal point. The similarity is more than a coincidence. The two bands share two members — lap steel player Kurt Kellesvig and bassist Pat Logterman. ]]> When: Tue. March 6 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Wed. March 7 8:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Fri. March 9 9:30PM
Cost: $14 cover / $12 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

The Electric Six are a joke-rock band of immense talent, and because of their search for new sounds (and bizarre lyrical topics), they have stayed a lot longer than any joke-rock act should.

Drawing influence from an array of bands ranging from At the Drive-In, to Cursive, to the Hold Steady, Aficionado has a developed a unique style they are happy to call their own. With roots in punk music, the band mixes organ, flute, and occasional horn arrangements into it's unorthodox blend of post-punk.

Pink Mink are no strangers to the new dynamics of a rock band. The band hosts a crew of retreads and “been-there-befores”, who have all experienced the “buzz band” feelings before. The list of former (and current) bands is long and includes names as well known as the Von Bondies, Ouija Radio (singer/guitarist Christy Hunt) and Marijuana Deathsquads (drummer Charles Gehr), to lesser known Twin Cities’ start-ups including the Selby Tigers, Lefty Lucy and Strut and Shock (guitarist/singer, Arzu Gokcen). Let’s just say this isn’t anyone’s first rodeo. ]]> When: Sat. March 10 8:00PM
Cost: $8 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Proceeds from the show will go to Big City Mountaineers and Sierra Club Inner City Outings.

A sweet blend of vocal blood harmonies, playing reggae, ska, punk, psychobilly and bluegrass versions of your favorite songs. Featuring a rotating cast of friends and family, every performance is truly unique and any variations only seem to make each event a truly special occasion! Come to a show, have a beer, have a shot, or just have fun!

The Madpolecats are a family band. Featuring Jesse on banjo, his father Papa 'Ski, on drums, his cousin Paul on guitar and accordian, his uncle Bobby Evans from The Alimony Blues Band on lap steel and guitar, and cousin J on stand-up bass. EVERYBODY SINGS and they have a sweet blend of 3, 4, and 5 part harmonies, playing reggae, ska, punk, psychobilly and bluegrass versions of your favorite songs. ]]> When: Sun. March 11 6:00PM
Cost: no cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Sun. March 11 12:00PM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. $10 donation goes to Oxfam America

Honoree: Kate Heiber-Cobb, Founder/Coordinator of the Madison Area Permaculture Guild MC Laura McFarlane, Former Oxfam America Staffer.

Event Will Run From 12:00 - 4:00pm.

Sexy Ester, a five piece New Wave Rock band from Madison, WI, is infused with so much John Hughesian charm a movie soundtrack couldn't contain it all. Sharp, smart, and deadly accurate with their hook laden Post-Modern Power Pop they're ready to take the US by force.

A torrid Affair is Madison's most "must see" indie rock masterpiece! Annabel Lee will blow you away. Her powerful, smokey vocals and honest, vulnerable lyrics are truly moving. She combines with one of the most innovative guitarists in the Midwest, Rockwell Windsor Rice. His harmonic, percussive playing style lends an edgy passion to this high energy duo.

Fire and Love will be performing for the High Noon Saloon Crowd at this Oxfam American Woman's Day Celebration.

f you haven't yet seen Heather Abney & The Catalog Babies, well, you simply must. Heather Abney has a captivating powerful voice, deep and soulful. She is backed by The Catalog Babies who are Lars Forde, John Conowall and Andy Demetriou. All together they create indie pop songs that are moody and atmospheric, lovely and stirring. Singer and pianist, Stephanie Nilles hails from NYC. She performs her own politically-influenced jazz/folk tunes, described by listeners as "Ella Fitzgerald on speed beating the shit out of Regina Spektor," "Tom Waits on helium," and "Fiona Apple deriving a disturbing amount of pleasure from tasing Ani DiFranco" ]]> When: Tue. March 13 6:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Getaway Drivers are a rock Americana septet featuring male & female leads, three-part harmonies, acoustic & electric guitars, keys, cello, fiddle & rock-solid bass & drums. This band combines smart lyrics with rootsy rock, power folk, & a touch of Celtic. ]]> When: Tue. March 13 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Thu. March 15 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Fri. March 16 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

This happy hour version of Rock Star Gomeroke really rocks! Come sing your favorite songs with The Gomers and take the edge off of your work week with 2 for 1 rail drinks and select taps. Check out the band's extensive song list in advance at www.thegomers.net, or there will be songbooks available when you arrive. Added bonus: Singers get a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. March 16 9:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Wisconsin Beard-Off is a one-night competition between the best beards in Wisconsin. Come cheer on your favorite bearded men, mustached men, and fake-bearded ladies; listen to a little beard-inspired poetry, and make your own beard at the beard making booth! The event will consist of five rounds: one round for each category and a final round to determine the 2012 Wisconsin Beardsman.

It’s true that beards have seen a perceived rise in popularity over the past five to ten years. However, since humans have grown hair, men have worn facial hair in various shapes and styles. From Christ to Santa and Lincoln to Roosevelt (the good Roosevelt), facial hair has been the standard demonstration of manly kindness and warmth. The most recent popularity is a return to our roots as human men, not a frivolous demonstration against authority. ]]> When: Sat. March 17 8:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Kissers are known for the frenzied energy of their live shows, their off-kilter humor, and their eclectic instrumentation. Violin, banjo, accordion, and an array of sonic effects combine with diverse musical influences for a unique sound that straddles the gap between indie-rock and Irish music. Audiences and reviewers, trying to describe them, cite bands as varied as the Shins, Pogues, and the Decemberists. The Kissers maintain that they are rock musicians who learned to play Irish music, not vice versa, and so their music sometimes feels more at home in a club than in a pub. ]]> When: Sat. March 17 12:30PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. Event Will Run From 12:30pm - 2:30pm

The Pints are primarily an Irish band that plays a mix of Celtic traditionals, rebel songs, and drinkin' songs, of course. The Pints began in 2000 with two young men, a dream, and a passion for Irish music. We have changed a lot over the years, but our love for the music remains the same. ]]> When: Sun. March 18 5:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Sun. March 18 9:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. March 20 7:00PM
Cost: $10 cover / $8 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Recently anointed as Boston’s Americana Artist of the Year (2010 Boston Music Awards), the David Wax Museum has been called “pure, irresistible joy” (Bob Boilen, NPR) and hailed by TIME.com for its “virtuosic musical skill and virtuous harmonies.” It is no surprise that its acclaimed performance at the 2010 Newport Folk Festival was hailed as one of highlights of the entire weekend by NPR. The Museum fuses traditional Mexican folk with American roots and indie rock to create an utterly unique Mexo-Americana aesthetic. Combining Latin rhythms, call-and-response hollering, and donkey jawbone rattling, they have electrified audiences across the country and are “kicking up a cloud of excitement with their high-energy border-crossing sensibility” (The New Yorker). ]]> When: Wed. March 21 9:00PM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

]]> When: Thu. March 22 8:30PM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Fri. March 23 9:30PM
Cost: $12 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Megafaun, grafting the delicate banjos and stoned digressions of their previous records onto sturdy, catchy pop song structures. "I think this record’s pretty direct, pretty honest, pretty vulnerable," guitarist Brad Cook told Rolling Stone. "The element of weirdness is more integrated and more subtle." The band also endeavored to pay tribute to the music of their youth. ]]> When: Sat. March 24 9:30PM
Cost: $15 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Ever since Cursive burst onto the music scene with their 1997 debut album, the band has consistently and continually churned out heady albums heralded by critics and fans alike. Cursive makes a fast impression with their powerful post-rock sound. Spotlighting Tim Kasher's uniquely powerful voice along with the group's consistently thundering drums and jagged guitars.

The most obvio​us thing​ about​ Cymba​ls Eat Guita​rs is that their​ epic,​ wides​creen​ indie​ rock bears​ a strik​ing resem​blanc​e to that of Built​ To Spill​ and early​ Modes​t Mouse​.​ The most impre​ssive​ thing​ about​ them,​ howev​er,​ is just how comfo​rtabl​e they sound​ playi​ng aroun​d with a sound​ those​ bands​ defin​ed on album​s like The Lones​ome Crowd​ed West and Keep It Like A Secre​t.​ This isn’t​ just a case of some young​ band weari​ng their​ influ​ences​ on their​ sleev​es,​ and offer​ing up a lesse​r versi​on of their​ favor​ite recor​ds — these​ are stron​g,​ creat​ive playe​rs stret​ching​ out and findi​ng their​ own niche​ withi​n a rich yet large​ly unmin​ed aesth​etic terri​tory.​" -- Fluxblog

Conduits, an Omaha band consisting of members of The Good Life, Eagle Seagull, Son Ambulance, Neva Dinova, Cursive, and The Golden Age, was formed in late 2009. Built from an equal love of drone, shoegaze, post rock, early synth, and the 1970's, their sound exists in a world bigger than the sum of its parts: chiming guitars, steady drum beats, analog synths, proggy basslines, and beautiful female vocals that are strong enough to not get lost in the swirling soundscapes. ]]> When: Sat. March 24 12:00PM
Cost: $7 cover
Additional Info: Family-Friendly Event. Event will run 12:00 - 4:30pm

Come to this fun event and help out the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County Music Makers program! It’s a great chance to see both veteran Madison musicians and newcomers just starting out. The event will be hosted by radio personality Gabby Parsons, from Triple M.

The Black Star Drum Line is part of the D.R.U.M. program which is a program developed by Joey B. Banks for the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County on Madison's west side neighborhood. The program teaches young children between the ages of 9-15 years old diversity, respect, unity through music, and discipline through the very technical drum corps style of drumming and performance. The most dedicated talented members in the D.R.U.M program are selected to perform in the Black Star Drum Line.

Sam Lyons is a 16 year old singer/musician/songwriter from Madison, Wisconsin. Sam also fronts and writes for the bands Stereocolor and Moon Jelly, both of which are two time Launchpad Finalists. Sam is a member of the Isthmus High School Jazz All Stars and has performed at Madison's Overture Center, the Wisconsin Union Theater, Milwaukee's Summerfest and more. Sam is also a 5 time MAMA (Madison Area Music Award) winner.

The Taalbi Brothers story begins with long winters in the basement of their midwest home, and having access to enough musical instruments to spare. Born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Bronson and Preston Taalbi (ages 17 & 15 respectively) are the youngest of a family in love with music. The Taalbi Brothers adore hardcore punk, Mediterranean guitar, & classic rock. This is apparent in the extreme tempos they reach at live performances and their rock-driven riffs and song structures. As a result, the Taalbi Brothers produce fast-paced and rhythmic acoustic instrumentals.

The Daze are an Indie alternative rock band from Madison, Wisconsin.

A five piece band from Madison, Modern Mod is full of energy. It all started when Corinne, Livy, Dan, and Emma met at the Madison Music Foundry in October of 2010. They played venues such as The Loft, Bratfest, and Launchpad. In June of 2011, they were joined by guitarist Cal. In August, they headed into Madison Media Institute to create a demo. Since then they have been planning shows, writings songs, and looking forward to a bright future.

Regional Launch Pad runner's up a Misfits Glory will be performing at the High Noon Saloon around noon! ]]> When: Sun. March 25 7:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. March 27 8:00PM
Cost: $18 cover / $16 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Kweller does write earnest, heart-baring lyrics, and he’s more than willing to share his insecurities in song. But emo? Ben Kweller has been called everything from balladeer to punk rocker, anti-folker to indie-popper. His ability to weave together opposites that coexist happily on the same album is something few can do. Kweller has been on the road as a solo artist since 2001 and made a name for himself touring with the likes of Guster, Jeff Tweedy and Death Cab for Cutie. In 2003 he joined forces with Ben Folds and Ben Lee to tour and record a four song EP as “The Bens.” ]]> When: Wed. March 28 8:30PM
Cost: $12 cover / $10 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

]]> When: Thu. March 29 8:30PM
Cost: $14 cover / $12 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Fanfarlo has taken a grand leap forward with “ROOMS FILLED WITH LIGHT,” incorporating new textures into their already eclectic sonic palette. Songs such as “Replicate” – available now for free download at www.fanfarlo.com – feature more experimental instrumentation than those found on the band’s debut. The guitars are now electric instead of acoustic, while synchs and samplers have emerged in place of mandolins and glockenspiels. At the same time, “ROOMS FILLED WITH LIGHT” takes all the themes, musical and lyrical, of its predecessor and vastly expands them with all the confidence of a band gaining control of their aims and abilities.

Gardens & Villa is the project of five college friends from Santa Barbara, formed following the collapse of a noisier post-punk band and a hitch-hiking journey up the west coast. Members Chris Lynch, Adam Rasmussen, Levi Hayden, Shane McKillop began playing in earnest as Gardens & Villa in 2008. The name is pulled from the location of their house on Villa Street, and the property's lovely garden to which they tend. The music they make is very much connected to coastal city they call home -- the stoney bike rides, dance parties, a scene free of judgment. ]]> When: Fri. March 30 5:30PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Fri. March 30 9:30PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. April 3 6:30PM
Cost: $4 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Dirty Shirts remind one of Madison's Cork n' Bottle String Band. Both bands play traditional roots styles and make entertaining live shows their focal point. The similarity is more than a coincidence. The two bands share two members — lap steel player Kurt Kellesvig and bassist Pat Logterman. ]]> When: Tue. April 3 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Wed. April 4 8:30PM
Cost: $10 cover / $8 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Reptar is a cropped hair, skinny jeans wearing girls wet dream hailing from the wonderful indie dance ridden state of Georgia. here truly is no easy way to describe the foursome, which makes them all the greater. In as few words as possible Reptar’s sound is an original blend of colorful, schizo avant-pop polished with synthesizers, animated vocals and samples.

Athens, Ga.’s Quiet hooves is a 12-piece minimal pop band led by songwriter Julian Bozeman, who released their debut album to national acclaim last year. Their songs navigate the expanding territories of pop music with a vibrating palette of over 200 independent sound-voices. ‘Saddle Up’ is a spinning funnel of disintegrating and ever-renewing chamber funk and synth-pop. ]]> When: Thu. April 5 9:30PM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

]]> When: Fri. April 6 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

This happy hour version of Rock Star Gomeroke really rocks! Come sing your favorite songs with The Gomers and take the edge off of your work week with 2 for 1 rail drinks and select taps. Check out the band's extensive song list in advance at www.thegomers.net, or there will be songbooks available when you arrive. Added bonus: Singers get a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. April 6 9:30PM
Cost: $14 cover / $12 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

A sextet featuring two drummers and a piano player, the White Rabbits refer to their music as "honky tonk calypso," and their cheerful blend of calypso, reggae and ska rhythms, plus secondhand music hall influences and big pop hooks, strongly recalls vintage Madness circa "Our House" and the moodier, more experimental side of the Specials and Fun Boy Three, via Ted Leo & the Pharmacists. ]]> When: Sat. April 7 9:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Welcome to the 3rd annual Cadillac Joe Memorial Fest, a show that was created in the name of one of Madison's favorite musicians, Cadillac Joe Andersen. Madison said farewell in 2009 to Hammond B3 player Cadillac Joe Andersen, who lost his battle with lymphoma cancer on July 29, 2009 after a three-year battle. Over the past decades Andersen played at the first Mifflin Street Block Party with the band Zoom, as well as with avant garde jazzers Nitefaces, the cover band Romeo, the blues act Turnin' Blue and as a sideman with various other performers, including Carey Bell. By 1998, some informal basement jams with friends and his son, guitarist Aaron Williams, developed into Cadillac Joe and the Blind Wolf Blues Band, which later morphed into the Cadillac Joe Blues Band.

Each year a concert is put on to raise money for a different cancer charity. This year all proceeds will go to the American Society.

The show will feature another Madison favorite, singer, songwriter & multi-instrumentalist Beth Kille. She has risen through the ranks of the acoustic-rock/Americana music scene since her debut in 2000. Her music is a hybrid of rock, country, folk and blues that resonates with diverse musical influences ranging from the soul of the Indigo Girls, the grit of Melissa Etheridge, the sultry vocals of Norah Jones & the groove of Ani DiFranco.

Cadillac Joe's son, Aaron Williams with his band the Hoodoo will also be performing. Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo have been featured on several national broadcasts including CNN and WGN. Their current album, "10:49" is dedicated to Cadillac Joe Andersen and was nominated for a Grammy in 2012. A Madison Favorite the last four years as voted on by Isthmus readers and taking home 7 MAMA awards including the coveted Artist of the Year. They've been described by critics as "Blues and Roll" for the masses.

Bernard Allison totes the same smokin’ six string shooter that his late father Luther Allison assaulted the blues with. And he is blessed with his father’s soulful voice, spiritual devotion, and a musical freedom which experiments with the blues. Born in Chicago on November 26th, 1965, the youngest of nine children Bernard was first introduced to the roots of black music and the art of the electric guitar by his father, the late great Luther Allison. Like Ken Griffey Jr. hanging out in baseball locker rooms as a youth, Luther’s son was the kid running on-stage throughout the band’s set. Experiences like that profoundly affect one’s aspirations. “That’s when I decided I wanted to be up there like him. I think I was seven.” ]]> When: Tue. April 10 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. April 13 9:00PM
Cost: $12 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Over the past three years, indie-folk trio Good Old War has captivated countless audiences with their acoustic-driven, sing-along-inspiring live performances. The band showcases delicately textured melodies and multipart harmonies that have become their signature while consistently revealing a penchant for infectious folk-pop, Good Old War this time sharpens their sound.

“Not quite country, not quite folk, and too complex to be described as plain as indie, The Belle Brigade are the most promising freshman act in current musical class of mostly fifth-year seniors.” -NY Post

Family of the Year (F.O.T.Y) has crafted a stirring set of songs teeming with catchy melodies, clever ruminations on love, heartbreak, and staying up late enough to watch the sun rise, and a cosmopolitan flavor enhanced by the fact that the members of F.O.T.Y hail from all over the globe. ]]> When: Sat. April 14 12:00PM
Cost: $3 cover
Additional Info: Family-Friendly Event. The $3 Cover is a Suggested Donation

Event will run 12:00 - 5:00pm. ]]> When: Tue. April 17 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Thu. April 19 9:00PM
Cost: $8 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Jeff and Vida’s nine years of performing and songwriting, have seen them delve into many different genres of music; country, honky-tonk, rockabilly, even a little rock and roll. But throughout their career, which has included four critically acclaimed albums, literally thousands of live shows in the U.S. and Europe, and a move from New Orleans to Nashville, bluegrass has remained a key influence in their style and sound.

hen it comes to Josh Harty, think alternative-country, American-style. "North Dakotan Josh Harty made his singer-songwriter name in Madison, Wisconsin's thriving folk scene with his appealing, sympathetic vocal, comfortingly reminiscent of Gordon Lightfoot, and expert guitar style that sets you immediately at ease. " (Peter Innes, Allgigs.co.uk) ]]> When: Fri. April 20 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

This happy hour version of Rock Star Gomeroke really rocks! Come sing your favorite songs with The Gomers and take the edge off of your work week with 2 for 1 rail drinks and select taps. Check out the band's extensive song list in advance at www.thegomers.net, or there will be songbooks available when you arrive. Added bonus: Singers get a free drink! ]]> When: Fri. April 20 9:30PM
Cost: $12 cover / $10 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

White Denim's singer James Petralli's hollow-body Gibson guitar emits airy, jazz-courting tones that meet his high, soft tenor in a musical ozone that can only be called Grateful Dead-like. Second guitarist Austin Jenkins, bass current Steve Terebecki, and Levon Helm-like backbone Josh Block groove a fierce sonic juggernaut that proves somehow less steam engine (heavy) inevitable than a grin-inducing pillow to the kisser. With Philly soul, a Strokes or two, and seamless shifts of tempo and melody reminiscent of the Band, White Denim makes every jam sound 10 minutes too short. As an initial trio, the group's interlocking live engagement began at explosive. In a foursome, White Denim builds to that same point, and once achieved, breaks on through to another side of the alchemical stratosphere. ]]> When: Sat. April 21 6:00PM
Cost: $15 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

This will be a mostly-seated show.

You could say that Sara Watkins’ solo debut has been a lifetime in the making. The 27-year-old singer-songwriter and fiddle player spent nearly two decades—all of her teenage and young adult life—as one-third of Nickel Creek, the Grammy Award–winning acoustic trio that used contemporary bluegrass as a starting point for its no-genre-barred sound. Along the way, she’s hinted at her desire to do a project of her own and even organized some exploratory sessions in Los Angeles about six years ago. Now, with Nickel Creek on indefinite hiatus, she is releasing her self-titled solo disc, recorded in Los Angeles and Nashville and produced by former Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones. It features an impressively wide range of backing players and old friends, including itinerant alt-country duo Gillian Welch and Dave Rawling, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers keyboardist Benmont Tench, Elvis Costello drummer Pete Thomas; fellow travelers from the bluegrass world like Tim O’Brien, Chris Eldridge, Ronnie McCoury and Rayna Gellert; and her Nickel Creek bandmates. ]]> When: Sat. April 21 9:30PM
Cost: $17 cover / $15 advance
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Born in Richmond, VA, in 1959, John Eddie relocated to New Jersey as an adult to pursue his musical career. A popular live draw on the club scene, he was joined on-stage on occasion by Bruce Springsteen. Signing a record deal with CBS/Sony, his self-titled debut was well-received in 1986 with its blend of bar-room swagger and heartland rock. The infectious single "Jungle Boy" climbed to the middle portion of the Top 100 chart, but his sophomore effort failed to ignite, despite the attention he received on such high-profile gigs as opening for Bob Seger and the Kinks. ]]> When: Sun. April 22 12:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up. Event Will Run From 12:00 - 4:00pm

]]> When: Tue. April 24 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Visit the Gomers’ homepage to check out their huge song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink! ]]> When: Sat. April 28 5:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Sun. April 29 8:00PM
Cost: $22 cover / $20 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Although Fountains of Wayne didn't enjoy mainstream attention until the release of "Stacy's Mom" in 2003, the band had already established itself as one of America's strongest power pop acts. Based in New Jersey, the group first appeared in 1996 with a mix of British-influenced pop songs, lo-fi production, and wry lyrics about dead-end jobs and biker boyfriends. Fountains of Wayne expanded their lineup and polished up their sound during the following years, eventually hitting gold with 2003's Welcome Interstate Managers. ]]> When: Tue. May 1 6:30PM
Cost: $4 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. May 1 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

--------------------------
Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Wed. May 2 8:00PM
Cost: $14 cover / $12 advance
Additional Info: 18 and up.

Led by soft-voiced singer Tony Dekker, the Toronto band Great Lake Swimmers specializes in subtle but direct declarations of love amid conflict. Usually moving at a glacial pace, its songs may dabble in metaphor, but there's little doubt about their message or their somber tone. This is haunting, haunted music, made to accompany haunting, haunted storytelling.

Cold Specks is 23-year-old Al Spx from Etobicoke, Canada, who now lives in London. Describing her sound as 'Doom Soul', Cold Specks' music is steeped in the musical traditions of the Deep South. No wonder then that Al cites the Lomax Field Recordings and James Carr as influences along with Bill Callahan and Tom Waits. With a voice that evokes the 'spirit feel' of Mahalia Jackson and the visceral tones of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Cold Specks' sparse arrangements and chaingang rhythms stop you dead in your tracks. ]]> When: Fri. May 4 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Happy-Hour version of Madison’s own unique musical institution – it’s Happyoke! Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join the Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

Happyoke fills up fast, so be sure to come and get your name in the hat early!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Sat. May 5 4:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Sat. May 5 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up. Entry is FREE w/ Derby tix stub!

]]> When: Tue. May 8 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Wed. May 9 8:00PM
Cost: $10 cover
Additional Info: 18 and up.

]]> When: Sat. May 12 9:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. May 15 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Wed. May 16 8:00PM
Cost: cover TBD
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Fri. May 18 5:00PM
Cost: $6 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

The Happy-Hour version of Madison’s own unique musical institution – it’s Happyoke! Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join the Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

Happyoke fills up fast, so be sure to come and get your name in the hat early!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Sat. May 19 5:30PM
Cost: no cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

]]> When: Tue. May 22 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]> When: Tue. May 29 9:00PM
Cost: $5 cover
Additional Info: 21 and up.

Everybody dreams of becoming a rock star....well now's your chance! Join The Gomers onstage and sing your favorite songs to a crowd of adoring fans. You've never seen karaoke like this before! Check out their huge online song list in advance, or peruse the songbooks in the club while partaking of some liquid courage. Then sign up and grab your lyrics, and if your name is drawn from the “Magic Sombrero of Rock”, you’ll be onstage and singing your heart out! Added bonus: every singer gets a free drink!

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Click here to see the Gomers’ songlist! ]]>