News4U May 2024

TABLE of contents

First Annual Evansville Ice Cream Fest Get the Scoop on the Tri-State's tastiest new Event!

FEATURES & UPCOMING EVENTS

2024 Spring Concert & Event Guide

All the biggest Shows coming to the Tri-State this Season!

Zach Williams at the Beaver Dam Amphitheater

An Interview with the Grammy Award-winning Christian Artist

Chicago at the Owensboro Sportscenter

An Interview with founding Member Lee Loughnane

Three Dog Night at the Old National Events Plaza

An Interview with founding Member Danny Hutton

2024 Mini Masters On Franklin St.

Super fun Bar Golf Event returns to Evansville's West Side

Bragin, Johnny Fletcher, Barold Hume, Jabez Martinez, Laurie Miller, Marisa Patwa, Lindsay Rasure

Now we're really cookin' with gas, fine people of the tri-state. Spring is in full effect and, as always, I'm pleased as punch about it. Something else I'm pretty fired up about: the solar eclipse. In fact, it's just hours away as I'm writing this to you. Still holding out hope that the clouds will part for a better look (it's not looking good at this moment) but either way, it should be a pretty awesome occasion. And if all goes well, none of us will be blinded whilst staring straight into the sun. You know you're not supposed to do that, right? Just checking. Not that I take any of you for fools, of course. But we all do stupid things from time to time

- some of us more than others, present company included. Now let's get back to the spring revival... As the days get warmer, one thing generally comes to mind. Yes, cheaper electricity bills (at least until the inevitable 90 degree days set in), but more importantly, ice cream. It's the great unifier in these divisive times, which is why our cover story this month should be a hit with pretty much everyone. Granted, the event is still a number of weeks away, but mark your calendar for June 26, because the inaugural Evansville Ice Cream Fest is coming to downtown Evansville and we've got the scoop (ugh) on all the details. Just to whet your appetite, you

can look forward to a Build Your Own Ice Cream Bar, food trucks, beer garden, lifesize games, live DJs, music performances and much more. Safe to say it will be tough to, uh, eclipse (double ugh), such a tasty spectacle. In addition, make sure to check out our Spring Concert & Event Guide featuring all the biggest shows headed to the tri-state. That's assuming you can still see. Finally, a big shout-out to all the moms out there - May 12 is your day!

- Tommy Ellis

It all started with a brainstorming session amongst senior staff at the Old National Events Plaza early last year. "We got together to discuss initiatives we really wanted to focus on - we wanted to get back to creating some meaningful and awesome experiences for the community and for our ticket buyers," explains GM Nick Wallace, who, along with Director of Sales & Marketing Ginger Harper, was all-in on the idea of presenting a festival during summertime, of celebrating what most everyone can agree is the best time of year in the Midwest. And what goes better with warm weather than ice cream? Most importantly, it's the great unifier - the perfect treat to bring people from all over the region together. Thus, the meaningful, awesome experience the ONEP folks were after was a no-brainer, ironically. The next step, then, in realizing this can't-miss idea was to partner up with Explore Evansville, an organization that knows a thing or two about creating and promoting big events. That's when Evansville Ice Cream Fest really began to take shape, logistically speaking, and downtown's most anticipated new festival moved from the page to the planning stage.

Even with limited publicity to date, the buzz over Evansville Ice Cream Fest has been big, especially online. What's really got everyone talking is the tie-in with the National Theatre on Ice Competition, a major production coming to downtown Evansville June 25-29. In fact, Ice Cream Fest organizers chose June 26 as their event date - mid-week on a Wednesday - to welcome the competitors and visitors from the region and show everyone a great time. The Theatre on Ice parade, excitingly, will make a stop on Locust Street in front of the Old National Events Plaza on the afternoon of the 26th, with Ice Cream Fest providing the perfect backdrop. What better way for the community to open its arms? No doubt locals and visitors alike will all be screaming for ice cream, but this festival has so much more in store for everyone. Highlights include:

• Food trucks offering a variety of savory selections to complement the frozen delights.

• Build Your Own Ice Cream Bar, for guests to get creative with an assortment of toppings and sauces.

• Boozy Ice Cream Bar and Beer Garden, for adults looking to cool off with refreshing beverages and alcohol-infused ice cream varieties.

EVENT SCHEDULE:

• Life-size games and supersized activities for the big kids.

• Children’s activities including bounce houses, a kid-size train, and interactive games.

• Live DJs and music performances to keep the atmosphere lively throughout the event.

• Assorted vendors showcasing unique products and crafts.

2:00 PM – 6:00 PM DJs with all indoor and outdoor activities

4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Theatre on Ice parade window

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Live music in Exhibition Hall with all indoor and outdoor activities

This inaugural Evansville Ice Cream Fest has all the makings of a major success - which means the tri-state will surely demand an encore. Going forward, the plan is to hold the 2025 festival on a weekend, and probably in July, which just happens to be National Ice Cream Month. But that's a ways off. Let's all come out and support the First Annual Evansville Ice Cream Fest on June 26 - guaranteed to be the tastiest event in town!

*Admission to Evansville Ice Cream Fest is just $5 for all guests ages 4 and up - a cashless entry (wristbands will be available for purchase on guest arrival). Once inside, guests will purchase food and beverages of their own accord.

For more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com. The ONEP is located at 715 Locust St. in downtown Evansville.

Listen up: warmer weather has arrived and there's no excuse to be holed up inside. Especially with so many amazing concerts and events on the horizon as we slowly head into summer. Venues throughout Evansville, Lincoln City, Owensboro and Beaver Dam have lined up another incredible spring season of entertainment for you - for everyone, really, not just you in particular. Regardless, check out our Spring Concert & Event Guide on the following pages and mark your calendar for the shows that you simply can't miss. Are you into comedy? Check. Totally dig MMA and bull riding? Check and check. Love classic rock, country or metal? Check, check and check. And so on. But don't take it from mejust start flipping!

SICP 5: MAYHEM

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / MAY 4

Southern Indiana Combat Productions presents an electrifying night of amateur and professional mixed martial arts action! This fifth SICP event will feature six incredible bouts, including two gripping title fights: "Cadillac" Zack Davis vs. Travis Foster and Carlos Garnett vs. Jonathan Griffin. Other highlights: 155lb amateur champion Kestin McClain takes on #1 contender Travis Hudson and 145lb champion Gabe Eurit battles #1 contender Saevon Canto.

GOLDEN GIRLS: THE LAUGHS CONTINUE

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / MAY 8

Miami's sassiest seniors have returned for one more hurrah. Sophia is out on bail after being busted by the DEA for running a drug ring for retirees. Blanche and Rose have founded CreakN, a thriving sex app for seniors. And Dorothy is trying to hold it all together, with help from a new (much) younger sex-crazed lover. Relive the heartfelt hilarity of the funniest seniors in town.

BEE GEES GOLD: THE TRIBUTE

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / MAY 10

Bee Gees Gold: The Tribute is the ultimate salute to the Bee Gees in their prime, providing fans of all ages the experience of reliving the musical wonder of the 60s, 70s and disco era. Backed by a live band, frontman John Acosta and his "brothers" completely recreate the look and sound of the Bee Gees, mimicking their famous unique falsettos and sporting era-worthy styles.

BRIAN PATAFIE: FUNNY AS PUCK TOUR

VICTORY THEATRE / MAY 11

Prior to becoming one of North America's most sought-after comedians, Brian Patafie spent 44 years working in the hockey industry, with a majority of his time devoted to the professional ranks, including the NHL and Germany's DEL2. Tri-state hockey fans know him as the former athletic trainer for the Evansville IceMen. Now he's bringing his "Funny as Puck" Tour to the Victory Theatrehelp welcome him back!

JUDAS PRIEST:

INVINCIBLE SHIELD TOUR

FORD CENTER / MAY 17

Few heavy metal bands have scaled the heights of Judas Priest. Now into their sixth decade, Priest's presence and influence remain at an all-time high as evidenced by the peak chart position of 2018's Firepower and incredible response to 2024's Invincible Shield. Add in their 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and there's not much argument that singer Rob Halford and the boys rule supreme.

ZACH WILLIAMS WSG DAVID LEONARD

BEAVER DAM AMPHITHEATER / MAY 17

Two-time Grammy Award-winner Zach Williams has built a worldwide fanbase thanks to his fusion of southern rock spirit and country soul - a unique combination that's only amplified by his raw guitar riffs, heartfelt lyrics and gravely vocals. On stage, the Nashville-based singer is a brilliant storyteller, sharing his incredible journey from growing up in a tiny town to achieving international stardom. See interview on pg. 18.

EVANSVILLE YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

VICTORY THEATRE / MAY 17

The Evansville Philharmonic season may be over, but tri-state classical music fans will be gifted one last performance to enjoy - by the kids. Yes, the highly-talented Evansville Youth Orchestra is gearing up for its annual spring concert featuring conductors Chun Ming Chen and Lee Veazey. Come out and support the area's up-and-coming musicians as they interpret some of the genre's most beloved compositions.

TURN THE PAGE: A TRIBUTE TO BOB SEGER (UNPLUGGED)

LINCOLN AMPHITHEATRE / MAY 19

Singer Sam Morrison and his band have been touring the U.S. for more than 10 years, faithfully bringing the incredible Bob Seger music catalog to fans across the country. Featured on CNBC News, as well as on AXS TV's "World's Greatest Tribute Bands," Turn the Page delivers all the hits from Seger's 10 consecutive platinum albums released between 1975-1995 - two glorious decades of rock & roll greatness.

CHICAGO

OWENSBORO SPORTSCENTER / MAY 23

Expertly fusing jazz, pop and rock to create timeless songs - including "25 or 6 to 4," "Saturday in the Park," "You're the Inspiration," "Hard to Say I'm Sorry" and many more - Chicago has remained a relevant musical force some 55 years since the band's formation. The group's unique musical set-up consisting of guitars, keys and horns continues to draw in new fans hungry for something real. See interview on pg. 20.

BLACKBERRY SMOKE: BE RIGHT HERE TOUR

BEAVER DAM AMPHITHEATER / MAY 25

For the second consecutive year, Blackberry Smoke brings its uncompromising brand of gritty rock & roll to Beaver Dam, with frontman Charlie Starr leading the charge. Known for his soulful vocals and haunting melodies, the Georgia native also sports the most impressive mutton chops in the business - but it's the music that keeps fans coming back. This tour is in support of 2024's Be

Right Here

PBR & JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY LIVE FORD

CENTER / MAY 25

Buckle up and get ready for action! The world's best professional bull riders are coming to Evansville for a pulse-pounding competition you don't want to miss. Guaranteed to be an adrenaline rush, this PBR Challenger Series will be followed by a performance from country star John Michael Montgomery as part of his farewell tour. Come out and say goodbye to a true legend in music!

THREE DOG NIGHT

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / MAY 31

Boasting chart and sales records virtually unmatched in popular music, Three Dog Night reeled off 21 consecutive top 40 hits in the 60s and 70s, including such iconic songs as "Joy to the World," "One," "Black & White," "An Old Fashioned Love Song" and "Mama Told Me." The California-based group has sold millions of records around the world. Check out our interview with TDN on pg. 22.

ROOTS & BOOTS TOUR

BEAVER DAM AMPHITHEATER / MAY 31

Featuring Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw and Collin Raye, the "Roots & Boots" Tour celebrates the golden era of 90's country music. Add in special guest Deana Carter and you can't go wrong with this package deal. Get ready to sing along to all of your favorites from that spectacular decade, including "You've Got to Stand for Something," "She Don't Know She's Beautiful" and "In This Life."

LEAD SINGERS OF CLASSIC ROCK

LINCOLN AMPHITHEATRE / JUNE 8

Two great singers, two great sets of amazing classic rock with Tommy DeCarlo, former singer of Boston, and Jason Scheff, longtime lead vocalist of Chicago. You'll hear some of the greatest songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s performed over the course of the evening - timeless rockers and unforgettable ballads that have served as the soundtrack to so many lives for so many years.

SISTER SLEDGE & BOOGIE WONDER BAND

BEAVER DAM AMPHITHEATER / JUNE 15

Legendary dance/R&B/soul band Sister Sledge headline the second annual Disco at the Dam with very special guest Boogie Wonder Band. The Sledge sisters became a household name and symbol of unity with their 1979 worldwide hit "We are Family" - but their universally-cherished catalog also includes such showstoppers as "Lost in Music," "He's the Greatest Dancer" and "Thinking of You." Get ready to get down!

TAYLORVILLE: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / JUNE 23

Attention Swifties of the tri-state: This dynamic tribute band is bringing unmatched musical talent to the stage, taking fans on a journey through Taylor's iconic career. The show - designed for fans of all ages - comes alive with stunning video wall production, adding a visual display that complements each song perfectly. Come prepared for an afternoon full of your favorite Tay Tay jams from all eras!

LITTLE FEAT

VICTORY THEATRE / JUNE 24

Formed in 1969, Little Feat took California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country, rockabilly and New Orleans swamp boogie and stirred it into a rich gumbo. And it was darn tasty. Few bands with such an expansive sound even exist today, making Feat's enduring mission to blow minds something to be savored. The group's combination of earthy, organic material and first-rate musicianship absolutely must be experienced in person.

EVANSVILLE ICE CREAM FEST

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / JUNE 26

The first annual Evansville Ice Cream Fest promises to be a sweet treat for all ages! Enjoy ice cream of every kind, along with a wide array of guest experiences, including fun activities for kids and a boozy ice cream bar/beer garden for adults. EICF will also feature food trucks, plus live DJs, live musical performances and assorted vendors on site showcasing unique products and crafts.

REO SPEEDWAGON

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / JUNE 25

Formed in 1967, signed in 1971, and fronted by iconic vocalist Kevin Cronin since 1972, REO Speedwagon jump-started the burgeoning rock movement in the Midwest. Platinum albums featuring enduring radio hits followed, including "Ridin' the Storm Out," "Time for Me to Fly," "Roll with the Changes," “Keep On Loving You," “Take It On the Run,” "Keep the Fire Burnin'" and "Can't Fight This Feeling."

BRAD WILLIAMS

VICTORY THEATRE / JUNE 28

Comedian Brad Williams may be little, but his comedy is large and in charge. His inspiring show offers a fresh perspective on life's quirks as Williams cleverly navigates through his experiences as a little person, relationships and everyday situations. Featuring entertaining observations on disability, relationships, sex and race, Williams' performances never fail to win over audiences, proving anyone can overcome obstacles in life no matter how challenging.

AWARD-WINNING

CHRISTIAN MUSIC ARTIST ON TURNING HIS LIFE AROUND, THE IMPACT OF HIS SONGS, WORKING WITH DOLLY PARTON AND MORE

ZACH WILLIAMS

Zach Williams knows firsthand what it's like to hit the bottom in life. After suffering a debilitating injury that derailed his dreams of collegiate basketball glory, the award-winning Christian music artist spiraled downward, got hooked on drugs and lost his way for a long stretch. He found a new purpose in music, ultimately, but still couldn't shake his demons. That's when he made the fateful decision to follow in the footsteps of Christ - to be a better person and set an example for others. Just a few years later, in 2016, Williams signed a solo record deal and dramatically changed his trajectory with the singles "Chain Breaker" and "Old Church Choir," two consecutive number ones that remained at the top of the charts for 35 weeks running - an unprecedented achievement.

The Chain Breaker album soon followed - as did the accolades, including multiple Grammys and GMA Dove Awards - punctuated by an unforgettable live performance staged in Harding Prison. That intimate, revelatory show (released as Survivor in 2018) stood in stark contrast to Williams' rapturous, mass gatherings at iconic venues such as Red Rocks, yet his purpose remains the same no matter the head count: to serve in the name of God. And speaking of serving... For 2019's "There Was Jesus" off his sophomore effort Rescue Story, Williams called on none other than country legend Dolly Parton to work her vocal magic on the track, a partnership which resulted in more Grammy success and another long stay at number one. "She wanted it to be the best; she really wanted to serve that song," he says.

Williams' most recent release, 2022's A Hundred Highways, is still making waves on the Christian charts thanks to inspirational singles like "Heart of God." You'll hear that and so much more at the Beaver Dam Amphitheater, including an opening set by singer-songwriter David Leonard.

The trajectory of your life changed so dramatically - from rags to riches, in a sense. Has it been difficult to practice humility at times

considering all the accolades you've received? It's definitely been a rollercoaster. Never in a million years would I have imagined the success that the songs have had or the things that have happened. I was doing what I thought God had for me and I think He was like, I have other plans, you know? I think being in my mid-forties definitely...it doesn't take much to remind you where you've been, you know, and what you've gone through to keep you humble.

Fans often comment that your music has changed their life in some meaningful way. Surely that's amazing to hear but do you find that burdensome at all?

Well, I mean at the end of the day, it's not anything that I'm doing. This is all...it's all God. He's the one that's changed my life; He's the one that changes people's lives. I get to meet people and they're like, 'Man, your song changed my life; your music changed my life - if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be here.' And I'm like, 'Well, it's not me; I'm messed up still - I still have my days.' And we all do - we struggle; I struggle to get it right. The only real reason that I'm where I'm at is because of Jesus. That's what I try to tell people, you know? And it definitely takes a load off.

What was it like to perform in a prison knowing you were headed down that path years earlier?

I can put myself in that situation because I can look at those guys and think, man, I could have easily been where you're at - on the other side of this. And so it's definitely different, but when you see guys that are in prison, you know, lifting their hands and praising the Lord and singing along...and you're like, this is the only freedom they've found inside these walls. It's a pretty awesome thing to see that.

Did any of your musical peers ask if you would politely step aside for a bit and give other artists a chance to get to number one during your ridiculous 35-week run at the top?

[Laughs} No, I didn't really know anybody at the time; I was brand new. When "Chain Breaker" went number one I was on a tour playing two songs a night with an acoustic guitar. I was by

myself; I didn't have a band. Then that song went to number one and that definitely helped me. Chris Tomlin, he reached out and I ended up doing "Worship Nights in America" with him. Big Daddy Weave was one of the big tours that I went on. I think [MercyMe singer] Bart Millard called me one day and was like, 'Hey dude, can you step out of the way?' Bart's great, though; he's a good friend.

Working with Dolly Parton on "There Was Jesus" was obviously a career highlight. Did you just let Dolly do her thing in the studio? I can't imagine she needed much direction. You know, we hadn't written any female background parts for the song - we were just kind of going to let her do her thing. And every time she would do one [a vocal take] that we thought was the one, she would say, 'Let me have another one.' She wanted it to be the best; she really wanted to serve that song. I got to see her heart that day and she's obviously...there's a reason why she's had such a successful career, because she works hard, too. She also hasn't forgotten about the people coming up. I mean, she's one of the nicest people. If you're talking to her, there's nobody else in the room; you've got her attention. And that's just the way she handles herself.

For tickets and more info, visit beaverdamtourism.com. The Beaver Dam Amphitheater is located in Beaver Dam, KY.

OWENSBORO

The jubilant blast of the horn section is still unmistakable all these years later. Near melodic perfection, the opening bars to "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?," Chicago's 1969 top 10 hit, distinguish the band as something wholly unique, marking the beginning of a long and winding musical road that's seen these legendary Windy City players expertly fuse jazz, pop and rock to create timeless songs. Their decades-long career includes such incredible highlights as "25 or 6 to 4," "Saturday in the Park," "If You Leave Me Now," "Make Me Smile," "Hard Habit to Break," "You're the Inspiration" and many more hits that helped to earn the band a place in the Rock and Hall of Fame in 2016.

For Chicago, the acknowledgement of

their past work was certainly appreciated; however, this is a group that's always moving forward. Not only do they still perform 100+ shows a year, the passion for writing new music never dims. 2022's Chicago XXXVIII: Born for This Moment, in fact, perfectly encapsulated the band's need to create and stay relevant, featuring modern production techniques, most notably on lead single "If This is Goodbye," a showcase for singer/guitarist Neil Donell. With three original members still in it for the long haul - keyboardist/vocalist Robert Lamm, trumpeter Lee Loughnane and trombonist James Pankow - Chicago just keeps right on trucking.

As was quite evident on Chicago XXXVIII, the band has always had multiple

Founding member Lee Loughnane on the band's love for the Beatles, the ebb and flow of a long career, staying true to the music and

more

songwriters and vocalists, a rarity in today's music industry.

As I've been listening to the Beatles station, Paul [McCartney] has said that he had a conversation with one of the guys in the Rolling Stones about how the Beatles had four lead voices in the band where most bands have one. And we have been fortunate to have multiple leads as well. With the Beatles, that was a big, big, big, big deal and we still pay homage to them.

We used to do Beatles songs when we first went out on the road - and then after a while we had so many hits that people started saying, 'How come you're doing Beatles songs? Why don't you do your own?' But it's because we've always loved them.

Most

bands that have been around a long

time aren't even interested in making new music because the landscape has changed so much.

It's changing while we're on the phone [laughs].

So how do you approach the release of new material with different listening formats seemingly popping up over night, etc.?

Exactly. You have to answer those questions as you're doing it. You try to figure out what the best way of presenting it to the audience is and that changes from week to week, seemingly. It's difficult to keep up with it, but we have people that are in the forefront of that that try to help us along. But what we do is keep writing music. You do what you do and see what happens. We are still at a point almost 60 years later where we are able and willing and want to continue. So that's pretty cool in itself.

Speaking of longevity, how has the band dealt with the inevitable ebb and flow of a nearly six decade career? Every time that Chicago seems to be down and out on the charts, you rise like a phoenix from the ashes and score more hits.

Maybe that's why I moved to Arizona; I live close to Phoenix - I'm rising from the ashes [laughs]. It goes hand in hand. But, we have never taken a year off; we've always been on the road, so it doesn't seem like it's been up and down. In reality, those things happen for you guys, for the press or the fans more than for us because we're always working. We still play a hundred shows a year.

The band's heavy touring schedule has resulted in some members retiring from the road. Has that affected the sound at all or is the music effectively more important than the individual?

If we play the songs right, they wouldn't miss me if I was gone. If the songs sound good, that's all they need. The music is more important, I think, than the individual.

It's frankly amazing how you manage to capture the original Chicago sound onstage.

The thing is that three of us - me, Jimmy Panko and Robert Lamm - are still in the band and we were there day one when there were only six of us, when we first started before [Peter] Cetera joined the band. Before we made the first record there were six guys and there's still half the band left; it's unbelievable. The press sees how many faces have been in the band and realistically, yes, there are 10 guys onstage now - seven of the names weren't there in the beginning, but three of us were. I think that's why the songs still sound as close to what the fans remember from the beginning, from the record.

For tickets and more info, visit owensborosportscenter.com. The Owensboro Sportscenter is located at 1215 Hickman Ave. in Owensboro, KY.

'FOUNDING MEMBER DANNY HUTTON ON THE BAND'S UPCOMING ALBUM, RESURRECTING SONGS, HANGING WITH BRIAN WILSON AND MORE

top 40 hits in a row. Only one group in the history of pop music can lay claim to such an amazing feat: Three Dog Night. Formed nearly 60 years ago in Los Angeles, California, the record-breaking, multi-platinum act known for featuring three distinctly different, yet equally compelling, vocalists initially caught the ear of the music-buying public with the haunting "One," an affecting ode to loneliness that remains in regular rotation on classic rock radio to this day. Much more chart success followed, peaking with the number one smash "Joy to the World" and fellow chart-toppers "Mama Told Me Not to Come" and "Black & White" - the latter sung by founding member Danny Hutton who fronts the current incarnation of the band, ensuring that the

incredible legacy of Three Dog Night lives on.

But Hutton isn't content to simply bask in the glory of the band's back catalog. Reportedly, he's wrapping up the recording of a new album - the first TDG release since 1986 - that, unlike much of the band's discography, has been written by the members themselves. "We used to get nailed by the critics because we didn't write all of our stuff," Hutton laments. "But you know, you're at the studio and Randy Newman comes in and says, 'Hey, check this song out - "Mama Told Me Not to Come" - wanna do it?' And we'd be like, 'Yeah, we'll do that.'" Still, the live show, for now, is all about the hits. Hutton describes the set list as a "rocket that takes off and

just keeps going," so buckle up for a thrilling concert experience.

Presenting a new Three Dog Night album has to be a little daunting based on the band's legacy and the current musical landscape. What can you tell us about the recording and your approach to it?

Well, doing a new album is exciting now because I've got that creative thing in my head. But we're Three Dog Night - we're not going to change completely. But I've been listening to alternative radio and it's interesting to hear how the songs now are put together. Everybody used to do the choruses and fade out - that's not done that much anymore. We've been using some more modern sounds on the keyboard... these are some of things that we've picked up. As far as the recording...I bought my house up in Laurel Canyon from Alice Cooper and I've got a pretty cool recording studio. We've got 10 things done - I wrote six of the songs - and I'm so excited. You know, you go out there [on stage] and you almost feel like a human jukebox sometimes. But we're a good one, though.

Considering that Three Dog Night had three vocalists that were really the face - or faces - of the band, how did the song selection process work back in the day? Did the musical side of the band get a say in what songs were chosen for each album?

See, it wasn't three vocalists and a band - it was a band. The president of the record company when we started said he was going to feature the vocalists so there was some focus instead of seven faces. But if you look after our second album, the pictures you'll see - they're band pictures in general. Everybody had to present songs and everybody would vote on it. Doing someone else's song, you either have to do it better than them or make it your own and do it differently. Doing music...it's like a puzzle, every little part. I learned that from Brian Wilson; when

he did all of Pet Sounds I was there. He was like a professor.

What do you make of today's artists taking old songs and simply putting a different vocal melody over the music whereas Three Dog Night would take a song and reinterpret it?

back in the day, can you drop a few names for us?

You know, that's a different delivery. It's its own thing - that's fine; there's a lot of really clever stuff out there. But rather than "reinterpret," I always say that we resurrected the songs. Songs that we did had been released - like by Harry Nilsson - and it didn't happen [chart-wise]. We got a hold of it, resurrected it, made it happenand I'm sure it didn't hurt Harry's career.

Three Dog Night obviously preceded the MTV generation but you did film a video for "It's a Jungle" in 1983 when the band was sort of reinventing itself. What do you recall about that shoot?

We were big and then we had to start all over again - and did that video. To me, young people didn't even know us; we played different characters in the video. We were like, 'Wait a minute, they don't even know who is who.' But we were not MTV people. When I think of it, The Beach Boys weren't, either. I don't remember them doing a lot of that. They sort of had the gravitas to be able to avoid it. We were kind of a faceless group. I can walk around anywhere or get on a plane...I'm like Steve Miller. But the minute people say, 'What do you do?' and I go, 'I'm in Three Dog Night,' they go crazy. But if I don't talk, I'm invisible; I love it. I can't imagine being Rod Stewart or Elton John or somebody that can't go anywhere.

Seeing as you hung out with so many stars

"YOU KNOW, YOU GO OUT THERE [ON STAGE] AND YOU ALMOST FEEL LIKE A HUMAN JUKEBOX SOMETIMES. BUT WE'RE A GOOD ONE, THOUGH.

Well, I had this party house in Laurel Canyon. One day I get a knock on the door and it's John Lennon and Ringo [Starr] and Harry Nilsson and Mal Evans. And they're like, 'Is there a party here?' Tom Waits and just about everybody... Elton came by, [The Mamas & the Papas vocalist] Mama Cass. And Brian Wilson hung out all the time. Supposedly he was in bed for that whole period of time, but he wasn't; he was at my house much of the time. Here's an interesting fact: Harry Nilsson got me a flat in London - I used to go there every Christmas for a couple weeks. And he had the flat above mine. When he was out of town, he would rent or let other people use his flat. [The Who's] Keith Moon died in his flat and so did Mama Cass. Interesting, huh?

For tickets and more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com. The ONEP is located at 715 Locust St. in downtown Evansville.

RISE UP & RUN PRESENTS: MINI MASTERS ON FRANKLIN ST.

MAY 18 / 12 NOON

SUPER FUN FREE EVENT RETURNS TO THE MAIN STRIP ON EVANSVILLE'S WEST SIDE

Having more than earned the status of "your local race authority," Rise Up & Run, a tri-state race management team, makes it a point to enrich our lives with fun, often charitable community gatherings - for example, last month's Tri Fest 5K Run/Walk which benefited Habitat for Humanity of Henderson. This month, Rise Up & Run presents the return of an Evansville favorite that combines two things pretty much all adults can agree on: team sports and beer (Mich Ultra, anyone?). We're talking bar golf, people - one of life's simplest pleasures.

Not only is Mini Masters on Franklin St. a super fun event for friends and family (21+ members of your family, we should note), it's free! But that doesn't mean the competition will be any less stiff. Here's how it works: First up, registration from 11 a.m.-noon. Then a shotgun start at 12 noon with teams of four facing off at participating bars and awards given out for the three lowest team scores (remember, a low score in golf is good - a high score is bad). There will also be a Costume Contest and Hole in One Contest. Awards will be handed out at 4 p.m. with lots of prizes, too. Don't miss out on all the fun - get your team of four together today!

To sign up, visit riseupandrun.com. You must be 21+ to participate.

Healthy Cooking with Lindsay Rasure

After receiving my starter several years ago, the first thing I really wanted to perfect was the basic sandwich loaf style bread. I was tired of paying a pretty penny for organic bread with clean ingredients. After I made one loaf I was completely hooked. Not only does it taste insanely better, but what I am putting in my body is good for me too. I choose to long ferment all my sourdough goods, because this process drastically reduces the gluten and gives the phytic acid a chance to break down. Those two things alone make the dough easier on the gut to digest as well!

CLEAN BITE life

LONG FERMENT SOURDOUGH SANDWICH BREAD

(2 loaves)

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 C. ACTIVE BUBBLY SOURDOUGH STARTER

• 2 ½ C. WATER

• 3 T. AVOCADO OIL

DIRECTIONS:

*Recipe adapted from lauralivesthegoodlife.com

• 1 T. HONEY

• 2 ½ TSP. SALT

• 6-7 C. UNBLEACHED ORGANIC ALL PURPOSE FLOUR

1. COMBINE THE FIRST 5 INGREDIENTS UNTIL WELL COMBINED. ADD THE FLOUR, A CUP AT A TIME, UNTIL THE DOUGH BEGINS TO PULL AWAY FROM THE SIDES OF THE BOWL AND BEGINS TO FORM A BALL. THE DOUGH SHOULD FEEL TACKY TO THE TOUCH BUT NOT OVERLY STICKY. KNEAD THE DOUGH FOR 10-15 MINUTES. IT SHOULD BE SOFT AND STRETCHY.

2. PUT THE DOUGH IN THE REFRIGERATOR FOR 1-3 DAYS IN A GLASS BOWL THAT HAS BEEN LIGHTLY SPRAYED WITH OIL. MAKE SURE THE BOWL HAS A NICE FITTED LID. YOU DO NOT WANT ANY AIR TO GET TO THE DOUGH. REMOVE FROM THE REFRIGERATOR THE NIGHT BEFORE YOU WANT TO BREAK. (I GET MINE OUT AT BED TIME AND SIT IT ON THE COUNTER STILL COVERED.)

3. IN THE MORNING TURN THE DOUGH OUT OF THE BOWL. DIVIDE IT EVENLY INTO TWO PARTS. KNEAD THE FIRST HALF BY HAND FOR ABOUT 2-3 MINUTES. PRESS IT INTO A RECTANGLE AND ROLL INTO A LOAF SHAPE. PULL THE DOUGH TOWARDS YOU TO CREATE SURFACE TENSION ON THE TOP OF THE LOAF.

4. PLACE LOAF INTO A BREAD PAN LINED WITH PARCHMENT PAPER. REPEAT WITH THE 2ND DOUGH. COVER BOTH WITH CLING WRAP THAT HAS BEEN LIGHTLY SPRAYED WITH OIL AND ALLOW TO RISE SOMEWHERE WARM. THE DOUGH SHOULD NEARLY DOUBLE IN SIZE WHEN IT IS READY TO BAKE. DEPENDING ON THE TEMPERATURE OF YOUR HOUSE THIS CAN TAKE 6-8 HOURS. (I LIKE TO TURN MY OVEN LIGHT ON AND LET THE LOAVES RISE IN THERE. THE LITTLE BIT OF HEAT THE LIGHT PUTS OFF HELPS SPEED UP THE PROCESS IF YOUR HOUSE IS COLD.)

5. PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 375°. FOR A GOLDEN LOAF, BRUSH THE TOP OF THE DOUGH WITH 1 BEATEN EGG BEFORE BAKING.

6. BAKE FOR 30-35 MINUTES OR UNTIL THE INTERNAL TEMPERATURE REACHES AT LEAST 190°. REMOVE FROM PANS AFTER BAKING AND LET COOL ON A COOLING RACK FOR ONE HOUR BEFORE SLICING.

7. IF YOU HAVE ANY LOAF LEFT I SUGGEST WRAPPING IT TIGHTLY IN PRESS N SEAL AND STORING IT ON THE COUNTER. THE LOAVES ALSO FREEZE REALLY WELL WRAPPED IN PRESS N SEAL. ENJOY!

FOR MORE RECIPES OR MEAL IDEAS YOU CAN FOLLOW LINDSAY RASURE ON INSTAGRAM: @CLEANBITELIFE OR HER FACEBOOK GROUP: CLEAN BITE LIFE

COUPONS!

PRESENTED BY:

IN TOWN & AROUND

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Allen Walker 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

THURSDAY, MAY 2

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Jake Holder & Friends

KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong Hornet's Nest -- Trivia 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

FRIDAY, MAY 3

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Hank Ruff 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Drag Me to the Weekend w/ DJ AP 8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Drag Show

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Jake Holder & Friends

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MAY 4 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Jake Holder & Friends 7:00 PM

Old National Events Plaza -SICP 5: Mayhem - MMA 7:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Joe Cooper 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Cinco de Mayo Latin Night w/ DJ Chidi

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Cliffy D Dance Party

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Flat Stanley

SUNDAY, MAY 5 2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Keith Farny 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

7:00 PM

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

MONDAY, MAY 6 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

TUESDAY, MAY 7 6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Allen Walker

Old National Events Plaza -- Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

THURSDAY, MAY 9 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar &

Grill -- Trey Hughes

KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Lindsey Williams Singer-Songwriter Night

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong Hornet's Nest -- Trivia 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

FRIDAY, MAY 10 5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Ryan Rigdon on the back patio 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Ridge Runners Duo 7:30 PM

Old National Events Plaza -Bee Gees Gold: The Tribute 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- The Why Store 8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MAY 11

5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Clint Campbell on the back patio 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Todd Cameron 7:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Sam Hahn 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- The Pits

Victory Theatre -- Brian Patafie: "Funny as Puck" Tour 9:00 PM

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Goldy Locks

SUNDAY, MAY 12

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! 10:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -Mother's Day Brunch 2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Monika Herzig 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

MONDAY, MAY 13

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

TUESDAY, MAY 14 6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Allen Walker 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

THURSDAY, MAY 16

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Blues & Jazz

Open Mic w/ Logan Dyer

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Dan Hall

KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Hornet's Nest -- Trivia 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill

-- Karaoke

FRIDAY, MAY 17

5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Michelle

Shelton on the back patio 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Dan Hall

7:00 PM

Beaver Dam Amphitheater

-- Zach Williams wsg David

Leonard

Victory Theatre -- Evansville Philharmonic Youth Orchesta Spring Concert 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Allen & Friends Comedy Show 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- DJ Dan Gunn

Ford Center -- Judas Priest: Invincible Shield Tour wsg Sabaton

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke

SATURDAY, MAY 18 10:00 AM

Haynie's Corner Arts District -Spring Funk in the City 4:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- JEB rock the lot stage in front of Bokeh 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Nick Gregory 7:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Kyle Francis 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Corduroy

Orbison & The Randys 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Widow7 10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- That's What She Said!

SUNDAY, MAY 19 2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Tom Drury Quartet 4:00 PM

Lincoln Amphitheatre (Lincoln City) -- Turn the Page: Bob Seger Tribute - Unplugged 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

Dive Barge -- Boscoe & Rusty 7:00 PM

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

MONDAY, MAY 20 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

TUESDAY, MAY 21 6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Poetry Night

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22 6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy

Open Mic hosted by Allen Walker 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

THURSDAY, MAY 23

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Elliott Sublett

KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Hornet's Nest -- Trivia 7:30 PM

Owensboro Sportscenter -Chicago 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

FRIDAY, MAY 24

5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Strolling Tones on the back patio 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Scott Winzinger

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- Dan Hall Duo (front stage) 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Star 69 w/ DJ Zaedo 8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- DJ

Cliffy D (back stage)

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke

SATURDAY, MAY 25

5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Lindsey Williams on the back patio 6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Clint Campbell

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- Dan Hall Duo (front stage)

7:00 PM

Beaver Dam Amphitheater -- Blackberry Smoke: Be Right

Here Tour

Ford Center -- Professional

Bull Riders followed by John

Michael Montgomery Live 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Allen & Friends Comedy Show

Hornet's Nest -- Rodney Watts 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- That's What

She Said!

9:00 PM

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- DJs

Cliffy D & Brian Dawe (back stage)

SUNDAY, MAY 26

2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Bokeh Big Band

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- Dan Hall Duo 9:00 PM

Dive Barge -- Jake Holder & Friends

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

MONDAY, MAY 27

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!!

1:00 PM

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- Trey Hughes

6:00 PM

Dive Barge -- Jake Holder & Friends

TUESDAY, MAY 28

6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MAY 29

6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole 7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Allen Walker 9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

THURSDAY, MAY 30

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Funk Night w/ DJ Chidi

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt

KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Hornet's Nest -- Trivia 9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke

Marina Pointe Nightclub -Upchurch

FRIDAY, MAY 31

5:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Dave & Zach on the back patio

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Trey Hughes

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- Paul Wiemeier (front stage) 6:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- 812 Metal Mayhem 7:00 PM

Beaver Dam Amphitheater -Roots & Boots Tour feat. Aaron Tppin, Sammy Kershaw & Collin

Raye wsg Deana Carter 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Xanderwolf Old National Events Plaza -Three Dog Night 8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke 9:00 PM

KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

Marina Pointe Nightclub -- DJ Cue

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke

JUNE AFTER

LONG-SIMMERING, EMO-INFLUENCED SOLO PROJECT FINALLY TAKES FLIGHT WITH HELP OF AREA MUSICIANS

Marshall Powers is, admittedly, a chronic procrastinator. He's also a bit of a perfectionist. Combined, those two personality traits go a long way in explaining why it's taken seemingly ages for his excellent music project, June After, to come to fruition.

Former bass player for Evansville rock outfit DRK WTR (a position he filled throughout 2022 in support of his partner, vocalist Lauri "Loralye" Andrick), the Mt. Vernon resident is a guitarist at heart - and a huge fan of Bon Iver, the emotionally expressive indie rock band whose driving force, singersongwriter Justin Vernon, has been the main

inspiration behind Powers' own work. In a neat bit of symmetry, both started out as solo artists before bringing other players into the fold to flesh out ideas and make live performance a possibility. Enter drummer Derek Strickland.

Hailing from the small Texas town of Daingerfield, Strickland attended Louisiana Tech University where he studied audio engineering before moving to Evansville after his wife landed a sweet job in Hawesville, Kentucky. (Hang tight, it will all make sense.) "Evansville was the closest place to her employer that we could find

on short notice," he explains. Conveniently, the couple wound up living across the street from Guitar Center; Strickland wasted no time applying for a position, eventually meeting Powers, a frequent shopper, during one of his work shifts. "I noticed his tattoos of Bon Iver," Strickland notes, "and we bonded over that." As the two fast friends became further acquainted, they began sharing music they'd created. Strickland was quick to pass on songs from his previous emo band, the Mango Plate, though Powers dragged his feet a bit. "He sent me some of his solo stuff - but it took a while," Strickland recalls. "I didn't push it." For Powers, the

reasoning was simple: "I'm protective over what I'm doing," he states.

The slow drip of material eventually gave way to a full stream as Powers and Strickland began jamming the former's original songs - some of which dated back to 2019. "I have demos of tunes that I've been writing for years - I just take a really long time," Powers says. Nothing wrong with being deliberate, though, especially when the results are nextlevel. "He's a really creative guy," Strickland says of his bandmate. "I thought what he'd come up with was pretty cool - I even kept quite a few of his drum ideas because they were really inventive, even though he's not a drummer." Powers is equally complimentary of Strickland, insisting that "there were some good ideas in there but it wasn't until Derek came along that they actually started turning into songs - he kind of weeded out the BS and helped me write a good song."

Once the two had mapped out songs for an EP, Strickland got in touch with Ryan Wasoba, a well-known St. Louis-based engineer/producer whose former band So Many Dynamos made waves in the emo scene some years back, eager to see if he'd record the project. The fact that Strickland previously interned for Wasoba certainly didn't hurt their chances. And, in fact, he agreed to get involved, scheduling two studio sessions - one for the drums, primarily, and the second for guitar, bass, keyboards and vocals - in April and July

of last year. Though some of the music didn't initially resonate with Wasoba, by the end of their time together he was a convert, actively suggesting and making improvements to the material, something Powers found tough to deal with - at first. "I wasn't trusting enough - I had never turned over my tunes to anyone before," he explains. "I kept thinking the songs weren't finished, but Ryan convinced me they were good."

Post-recording sessions, the EP was mixed and mastered, the latter stage completed at Midtown Sound House earlier this year. And just wait until you hear it - all of Powers' nail-biting has totally been worth it. Yes, the Bon Iver/emo vibe is readily apparent, but there's a whole other rock element to the project generally missing from his influences (though he does profess to loving Led Zeppelin which makes total sense). Powers' vocals, too, are both familiar and imaginative. There are moments where he soars into falsetto á la Justin Vernon but also times when studio technology is employed to surprising effect. "I used AutoTune a bit as a textural device," he says. "I initially hated the technology but since then, I've gotten into manipulating vocals in different ways." Overall, the musicianship is just exemplary with incredible guitar work that ranges from sophisticated chord structuring to rapid-fire fretboard fingering. And Strickland's drumming absolutely hits the mark, every beat perfectly measured. Heck, even Wasoba gets credit for taking on the role of bassist which he handled with aplomb, allowing Powers to concentrate on what he does best.

Speaking of bass playing... After the second studio session, Powers and Strickland reached out to area musician David Love, aware that they needed a third pair of hands to perform live. They also needed a name for the project. "We had a dry erase board and wrote down anything that came to mind - words that related to the vibe and texture of the songs," Powers says. "What is a band name? It doesn't have to mean anything, just has to sound appropriate." After much head-scratching, the guys agreed on June After, a moniker which both symbolizes the time of year when many people feel refreshed thanks to the warmer weather and gives a sly nod to the art of procrastination - "It might not be this June, but the June after," Powers jokes. With Love on board and a name to put on the bill, June After took the stage at Fuchsia Fest last September, receiving a heartening response from the overflow crowd at STAGEtwo@321 in Evansville. They also recently played Mt. Vernon's Eclipse Festival, another wellattended, well-received gig that points to bigger things for the burgeoning trio.

Now the main objective is to get the first single released - which should be out this month - followed by two more singles set to drop over the summer before the full EP (featuring cover art by Ryan McKain) sees the light of day. In the meantime, you can catch June After in Owensboro on May 11.

For show details and more, follow June After on Facebook.

KUJO

PLENTY OF BITE: NEW HENDERSON-BASED ROCK BAND RIPS IT UP ON DEBUT EP

If you needed more proof that the tri-state rock/metal scene is in good hands, look no further than Henderson's Kujo, yet another young band from the area with tons of potential - and plenty of bite, as heard on the soon-to-be-released debut EP featuring members Jefferson Canales (vocals/

guitar), Brayden Knott (bass) and Alyjah Lawing (drums). Age-wise, collectively speaking, this trio couldn't even sign up for Social Security; but in terms of kicking out the jams, the guys are growing up fast, quickly developing their own hybrid of raw grunge (think Mudhoney and Bleach-era Nirvana) and alternative rock,

pulling from influences such as Deftones and Queens of the Stone Age. Put it all together and you've got the unique sound of Kujo - ferocious at times ("Curb Stomp"), but also darkly melodic ("Carpet 351") and peppered with dense power chords ("Anemia" and "Calcium").

The members of Kujo joined forces in August of 2023 - each with an interesting backstory that led them to the band. Having grown up in New York before moving to the area around the age of 12, Canales initially found it difficult to adjust to life here, especially thrown by the southern accents of his fellow students. "I felt like an extraterrestrial," he recalls. But when his step-dad passed away, leaving behind an acoustic guitar, something clicked. "He never got the chance to play it - so that became my reason to learn to play; I'm going to dedicate this to him," he says. It was slow going at first, but Canales, through YouTube tutorials, in particular, taught himself songs by the likes of Nirvana, Arctic Monkeys, Toadies and Local H. Then one day he got a text from Lawing who proposed a jam session...

Lawing's father, as some of you may be aware, was a bit of a country star in his early days, a fixture in the Nashville scene and beyond as a member of the Cactus Brothers/Walk the West and Bonepony. He's still active today, still playing the violin and mandolin and singing, too. So it's no surprise that Lawing took up an instrument during his childhood - or that his parents fully supported him, signing their son up for drum lessons from Pat Moore, one of the tri-state's most skilled musicians. "My dad has pushed me a lot," Lawing notes. "On his side of the family, everyone plays an instrument - my grandma even plays guitar." But while all that practicing made Lawing a darn good drummer, the monotony of playing alone in a room started to wear. So he sent that aforementioned message to Canales. The pair would later invite current Murderachi

guitarist Brody Napier to join in on bass, dubbing themselves Quixotic and tackling covers by Queens of the Stone Age, primarily. But Napier wasn't feeling it...

Meanwhile, Knott had been serving as the bassist for Severe, a short-lived Henderson metal band founded by twins Landan and Logan Rideout, though his background was in guitar. "I got my first guitar in sixth grade - my grandpa got it for me, but wanted to know my commitment, so I had to buy it off him for $40," Knott recalls. "Turns out he paid $80 for it - he just wanted to make sure I'd follow through with it." Spoiler alert: he didn't. At least not for the first couple of years. But about midway through high school, Knott started putting the time in and eventually was offered the opportunity to play with Severe. But as the bassist - a real trial by fire. "Two weeks later we played our first show - stuff like Pantera, early Metallica that I shouldn't have been playing," Knott admits. No harm, no foul, though, because soon after the band split up and everything sort of fell into place. The Rideouts formed Murderachi, bringing in Napier on guitar, while Knott, growing more confident on bass by the day, slotted comfortably into Quixotic. All good.

With Canales, Knott and Lawing now locked in, the first order of business was to find a new name - something that sounded a little menacing yet without too many connotations. "Cujo" came up, which the trio liked, but Canales changed the spelling "like how Mortal Kombat did their stuff." Bullseye. In a show of camaraderie, Kujo's live debut happened on Halloween 2023 at a house party thrown by the

Rideouts. The setlist, which featured covers of Deftones, Nirvana, Queens of the Stone Age, Local H and the Mullets, saw the first airings of originals that would form Kujo's new 4-track EP - and the assembled crowd most certainly approved. Performances at Henderson's Denton Shelter and The Elm soon followed, as well as a gig at Your Brother's Bookstore in downtown Evansville. It was at the Elm Christmas show where Kujo cozied up to the Randys, a well-known tri-state band with a home recording studio up in Vincennes. Ultimately, that's where Canales, Knott and Lawing would lay down the tracks for "Curb Stomp," "Carpet 351," "Anemia" and "Calcium."

Kujo should have the new EP out soonand you'll definitely want to check it out. Between the band's propulsive rhythm section, fuzzed-out guitar and Canales' singular vocal delivery, which alternates from near-gothic to full-on rage, it's a wild ride from start to finish. Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming performances!

For more info, follow Kujo on Instagram: @kujo_band

"I got my first guitar in sixth grade - my grandpa got it for me, but wanted to know my commitment, so I had to buy it off him for $40."

THE COLD STARES

TRI-STATE BLUES-ROCK TRIO DROPS "HORSE TO WATER," FIRST NEW SINGLE OF 2024

Year after year, they just keep tearing it up, putting out one rock-solid release after another. A tri-state institution at this point, the Cold Stares - comprising vocalist/guitarist Chris Tapp, bassist Bryce Klueh and drummer Brian Mullins - continue to wow with their expert songwriting and musicianship and above all, raw live performances. If you've somehow never witnessed a Cold Stares concert at venues like Bokeh Lounge in Evansville, then god help you. It's an experience like no other, plain and simple. Still, the trio is equally formidable in the studio, having produced a career-defining album in 2023's Voices featuring such earth-shattering Hendrix-y jams as "Nothing but the Blues" and "Come for Me." Now, the guys are back with "Horse to Water," another rocking chapter in the Cold Stares story.

After a guitar intro that's full-on AC/DC, this latest single quickly settles into a classic Tapp groove as he pleads for mercy from his beloved: "Tell me there's a way/ I'll be on the first train home/ I've been counting the days/ Since you put me on this road." As with all Cold Stares songs, you absolutely feel Tapp's pain - his vocals never fail to elicit a response, especially here as he emphatically declares, "You don't have to lead this horse to water/ Baby, I can see my own way through/ As sure as the sun will rise tomorrow/ I will find my way home to you." The guitarist's down and dirty guitar riff is hoisted up by the rhythm section of Klueh and Mullins as the pair locks in tight, never wavering, taking the track home to its rightful destination.

"Horse to Water" is available on major streaming platforms. For more info, visit thecoldstares.com.

GHOST TRAIN

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS WRITER/DIRECTOR WRAPPING UP NEW SHORT FILM

PROJECT FULL OF CHILLS AND THRILLS

Jed Brian is surely one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. But the southern Illinois filmmaker also delights in scaring the living daylights out of everyone - something he achieved to great effect with the 2013 found-footage flick Unlisted Owner which eventually saw release on DVD and Blu-ray in 2017 and 2019, respectively, ultimately landing in Amazon's top 10 "hot new horror releases." Keep in mind the film was shot on a shoestring budget with unknown actors; reaching that level of success was certainly unexpected yet Brian took it in stride. He also made the most of the moment by traveling the region for signings and attending horror conventions as a guest, including the 2023 FrankenCon in Tennessee.

While Brian's incredible journey with Unlisted Owner has spanned the better part of a decade, he's found time to get involved in other projects along the way, such as 2020's Lost in the Woods , a short horror film which packed a surprising amount of suspense into two minutes and 33 seconds. Brian co-wrote the script with

director Alex Mañga of ACM Films out of Los Angeles - a symbiotic partnership that's resulted in more than 100,000 views on YouTube to date. Then in 2022 he hopped on board for the making of 10/31: Pt. 3 , writing and directing a segment of the third and final installment in the fan-favorite horror anthology. Now Brian is about to unveil what he's been up to in the interim, ready to take us all on a wild ride...

Returning to the short film genre, Brian shot Ghost Train on the historic Wabash Cannonball Bridge (which connects Vincennes, Indiana with St. Francisville, Illinois) and at French Lick Scenic Railway - two perfect backdrops for a haunted, diabolical adventure. As with Unlisted

Owner , he wrote and directed this new project which stars Ashley BeLoat, Jordyn Coyle, Desmon Heck and Steve Christopher and features cinematography by Brent Perrott. Brian's wife Cassondra also gets in on the action, handling special effects makeup. No word just yet on a release date, but updates should be coming soon. If all goes well, we'll catch up with Brian for a chat about Ghost Train in an upcoming issue. Keep your eyes peeled.

For more info, follow Jed Brian on Facebook.

SCREEN TIME

WITH MARISA PATWA

May film and TV releases feature an alt-reality thriller, more romance from Shondaland and the next chapter in a sci-fi western series

DARK MATTER

Remember the multiverse in Fringe? Picture that, but with a darker thriller aspect. Your you from another reality tries to steal your life and you have to fight your way out of the alternative version of your reality to find your true family. Based on Black Crouch’s best-selling book, Dark Matter features Joel Edgerton as Jason Dessen, a Chicago physicist who must fight himself to get his life back. Jennifer Connelly also stars as his dual wife in both realities, while Alice Braga, Jimmi Simpson, Oakes Fegley and Dayo Okeniyi round out the spectacular cast. It’ll be exciting to study the differences and similarities in both worlds. One small contrast in each could have a drastic ripple effect, changing the course of the characters' lives forever. This mind-bending show will not just have us questioning their motives, but asking ourselves what do we hold dear and what are we willing to fight for? APPLE TV+ 5/8

BRIDGERTON - SSN 3, PT. 1

The third season of Bridgerton is set to let us watch a shy wildflower bloom to her fullest. Irish actress Nicola Coughlan plays Penelope Featherington as the oddball out on the marriage mart, treading dangerously in spinster territory. After two seasons of teasing a dalliance with the whimsical Colin Bridgerton, played by the dashing Luke Newton, we’re finally supposed to see if these two friends will fall into the lovers trope. The series is a global phenomenon, based on Julia Quinn's highly successful book series following each of the seven Bridgerton siblings as they get their shot at true love. Fans have been so eager to see the Colin and Penelope story from book four, that the Shondaland Netflix universe decided to move it up to season 3. Even more exciting is Coughlan defying the standards of what it means to be a typical leading lady, because every girl in the garden is deserving of romance. NETFLIX 5/16

OUTER RANGE - SSN 2

Outer Range is the sci-fi western show that we never knew we needed, but rightfully deserved. But make no mistake, this is no Cowboy & Aliens. When we last saw Josh Brolin’s ranch hand Royal Abbott, a plethora of cliff-hangers were dangling in the air, or perhaps more accurately, were buried in the hole. His hard-headed, saltof-the-earth hero has many big secrets, all surrounding the mysterious time-traveling hole that appeared on his property in the first season, not to mention Autumn Rivers, the mysterious blonde traveler squatting on his land, played by the erratically deviant and emotionally hysterical Imogen Poots. It was highly entertaining watching a young woman psychologically terrorize such a strong man as he tried to solve multiple mysteries, including the disappearance of his adult daughter. Here’s hoping season 2 gives us the answers we need to patch the gaping hole in our hearts since the last episode aired in 2022.

PRIME VIDEO 5/16

TRUE CRIME JUNKIE

WITH JOHNNY FLETCHER

JENNIFER & JAMES CRUMBLEY: MICHIGAN SCHOOL SHOOTER PARENTS SENTENCED

In the March 2024 edition of this column, I covered the case of Jennifer Crumbley, the first parent in the history of our country to be held accountable for a school shooting conducted by a child. The Michigan mother, after testifying in her own defense, was ultimately convicted of four counts of involuntary manslaughter on February 6, 2024, in connection with the crime perpetrated in 2021 by her then 15-year-old son Ethan which resulted in the deaths of four classmates at Oxford High School. But Jennifer was just the first of Ethan's parents to face justice. Not long after her trial came to an end, father James Crumbley appeared in court, charged with the same four counts of involuntary manslaughter. On March 14, 2024, the jury in his case reached the same verdict: guilty.

After these unprecedented convictions were handed down, the question as to whether they were fair was endlessly debated by legal pundits, true crime show hosts and the like. In particular, the fear that this outcome might send us down a slippery slope in terms of parental responsibility loomed large in such discussions. Would the actions - or inaction - of mothers and fathers in America now be put under a microscope when a child commits a crime? There was real concern. But while the outside world picked the decisions apart and conjured up a dark future, the Crumbleys remained behind bars, awaiting the sentencing phase. Frankly, there was every possibility they'd get time served and walk if the judge deemed Jennifer and James had already paid a high enough price for their son's carnage.

But that's not how it played out. On April 9, 2024, the Crumbleys, despite going through separate trials, attended the same sentencing hearing - they even sat at the same table together with their appointed lawyers. Awkward, to say the least. From my vantage point, having watched the court proceedings live on YouTube, it appeared that Jennifer wanted James to acknowledge her in some way - she kept glancing sideways at him - but he continued to stare straight ahead. Keep in mind that both defense teams attempted to throw the other Crumbley under the bus during the trials, a common tactic in a situation like this. But James received the brunt of the attacks; perhaps he didn't take too kindly to that. Regardless, after hearing from both the defense and prosecution, as well as from Jennifer and James, who both read pre-written statements filled with (supposed) remorse for the fallen classmates and suffering of their families, the judge made her decision: 10-15 years in prison. The sentences, she declared, were "in the best interests of justice and are reasonable and proportionate."

Do you agree? I welcome you to dig deeper into the case of the Crumbleys and form your own opinion.

"WOULD THE ACTIONS - OR INACTION - OF MOTHERS AND FATHERS IN AMERICA NOW BE PUT UNDER A MICROSCOPE WHEN A CHILD COMMITS A CRIME? THERE WAS REAL CONCERN.

SPRING FUNDRAISERS FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS

With area shelters in crisis, the community's support is needed more than ever

It's not just here in the tri-state. For a variety of reasons, animal shelters across the country are struggling to keep up with the influx of cats, dogs and other furry friends. The financial burden of caring for these animals and finding them homes, understandably, is overwhelming. Now more than ever, area shelters need the support of the community to continue providing such a valuable service - a service that comes with great challenges and often few rewards.

You can do your part by attending one or both of the upcoming fundraisers noted below - or by simply making a donation. Every little bit helps and is greatly appreciated.

VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY GOING, GOING, GONE TO THE DOGS! BENEFIT DINNER & AUCTION

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / MAY 18 / 5:30-9 P.M.

The VHS's signature annual fundraiser is back with a whimsical "Dogtor Seuss" theme that's guaranteed to entertain. Most importantly, more than 500 items will be auctioned off (in-person bidding only this year), ranging from $25 up to $5,000+. Which is to say there's something for everyone. In addition, attendees will enjoy a preview cocktail party and a plated dinner. Proceeds from the evening go to support the VHS in its efforts to care for and house thousands of animals every year.

The ONEP is located at 715 Locust St. in downtown Evansville. For tickets and more info, visit vhslifesaver.org.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE ROCKIN' FOR RESCUE: AN 80S & 90S PAWTY

WAREHOUSE 410 / JUNE 15 / 6-10 P.M.

This annual event presented by Lux Motors is a tri-state favorite and for good reason - it's an absolute blast. Heads up, ITV's 10th edition has found a new home - Warehouse 410 in downtown Evansville - but the good times will roll as ever as Rockin' For Rescue flashes back to the 80s and 90s when both the music and fashions ruled. Guests are encouraged to dress the part and be ready to PAWTY like it's 1999 - or 1989. You get the picture. FYI, sponsors are needed for this fantastic event, so pitch in if you can and support all the amazing work ITV does for the tri-state's homeless animals.

Warehouse 410 is located at 410 Carpenter St. in downtown Evansville. For tickets and more info, visit itvrescue.org.

VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY

EACH MONTH WE’LL BE CHECKING IN WITH THE VHS FOR THE LATEST GOOD NEWS AND TO HELP FIND FUREVER HOMES FOR SOME OF THEIR MORE UNIQUE AND OLDER RESIDENTS

GOLDIE: Meet 5-year-old Goldie! She’s a medium energy girl, not too hyper but definitely not a couch potato either. She’s easy to walk on a leash, does well on car rides, knows commands, is super sweet and LOVES kiddos. Basically, Goldie is almost perfect! Her $200 adoption fee includes her spay, microchip and up-to-date vaccines. Apply for her today at vhslifesaver.org!

BLYNKEN: In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. Make the most of it by adopting a shelter cat like Blynken! At three-years-old, she is honest-to-goodness, one of the sweetest and silliest cats in the building. She has lived with kids, but would prefer to be the only feline in the house. Her $100 adoption includes her spay, microchip and up-to-date vaccinations. Apply for her online at vhslifesaver.org!

(812) 426-2563

MAKO TSUNAMI: Meet Mako Tsunami - one of SEVEN rat brothers. This crew is some of the most social, playful and outgoing rats we’ve seen in these parts. Like people, they all have their own little personalities. Female rats are capable of having six litters a year, with up to 12 rat pups (see the seven rat brothers for a good case in point.) That’s why it’s important to separate the girls from the boys. Because just like dogs and cats, these guys also end up in shelters! Being social little creatures, these bros will need to be adopted in pairs and their adoption fee is just $10 each!

YEATS

VHS ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT

Jane Norris spent her childhood in Mt. Vernon where she grew up with a prized dog named Liquorice who inspired her love for animals. Later, as an adult, she would travel "north, south, east and west" before landing back in Indiana - Evansville, specifically - where Norris has been an advocate for our furry friends in need, rescuing both cats and canines over the years, including three golden retrievers. Back in September of 2023, she decided it was time to welcome another animal into her home - and her mission was very specific when she visited the Vanderburgh Humane Society. "I wanted to rescue an animal that the shelter was having difficulty adopting out," Norris explains. While discussing her objective at the front desk, a

HE'S A SWEETIE AND HE NEEDS A HOME AND LOVE, TOO

about doing her best to make him comfortable in his new surroundings. Easier said than done. "Yeats was under my bed for quite awhile," Norris notes. "But he came out eventually and he's gotten more and more used to me. He loves his butt scratches - and his food." Still, she acknowledges that this partnership will take time and that Yeats "may never completely be the house cat that everyone would like" as he's not a cuddler or a lap cat. "But that's ok - he's a sweetie and he needs a home and love, too," Norris says. Yeats also needs time to adapt to the recent addition of a dog at the home - the third of the aforementioned three golden retrievers that Norris has rescued. Reportedly, he was raised with cats and wants nothing more than to lick and play with Yeats, though the feelings aren't currently mutual.

certain VHS staff member happened to overhear the conversation and suggested that Norris consider "Ace," an extremely shy feline who was being housed in one of the nearby offices in an effort to socialize him. This handsome little guy was not only an introvert which made him unattractive to potential adopters but, at seven-years-old, hardly a spring chicken. Norris was unfazed. "I went back and met Ace and we got along fairly well for a first meeting," she recalls. "I said I would give him a try as I have the time and the patience to get him acclimated to me."

First thing Norris did after taking Ace home was change his name to "Yeats" in a nod to the famous Irish poet. Then she set

Regardless, after six months Yeats is slowly coming out of his shell. And Norris is in it for the long haul, no matter what. "I don't believe in returning pets just because there's a little difficulty involved," she says. "It's a life-long commitment - you don't return children when they give you a hard time, though we might like to [laughs]."

AS I TYPE THIS...

with Barold Hume

THE RFK JR. CONUNDRUM

I'm assuming that everyone has come down from their eclipse high by now. Crazy how the extreme divisiveness that's plagued the country for the last decade or so suddenly disappeared for four glorious minutes as people from all walks of life gathered to stare up at that big yellow globe in the sky. Some without eye protection, too. America isn't necessarily home to the brightest bulbs, you know. Just look at the two guys running for president. Make that three, actually. As I type this, third-party candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is still hanging around, threatening to sway the outcome of the November election. But for which party? Depends on who you ask. Many political pundits seem to think that as an outsider - much like Trump professed to be in 2016 - he'll take votes away from DJT. Yet others envision RFK Jr. gaining support from Independents likely to lean towards Biden when push comes to shove. The former scenario - on paper, anyway - seems to be the most likely; after all, a somewhat similar situation occurred in 1992 when Reform Party founder Ross Perot, the Texas tycoon with a gift for gab, ate into the support of Republican incumbent George H. Bush, helping

Democratic challenger Bill Clinton take the White House. (Or maybe it had more to do with GHB's infamous "no new taxes" pledge; I don't claim to be an expert on these things.)

RFK Jr., however, is a little more extreme than Perot who focused primarily on economic policies, positioning himself as a bit of a conspiracy-driven candidate - particularly in regards to Covid and vaccines. While there are certainly many concerns about the way the pandemic was handled and plenty of lingering questions about its origin, he's pushed theories that are borderline at best, including that the virus was engineered to spare Ashkenazi Jews and Chinese people. Hey, maybe you believe that, too, but you're not running for president. Between that sort of talk and RFK Jr.'s anti-vax rhetoric, it's hard to imagine many Democrats choosing him over Biden; heck, even the Kennedy family has pretty much disowned him at this point. Still, many voters are looking for an alternative, dissatisfied with the 2020 re-run. As always, anything's possible. It could be that if RFK Jr. tamps down the nuttiness and focuses more on

uniting disgruntled Republicans and Democrats - a prime objective of his platform - then he'll make some headway. But to what end?

Of course, a lot can happen in five months. Between Trump's many court battles and Biden's senioritis, who knows where things will stand come November. What if they both bite the dust? Could we be looking at a Nikki Haley vs. Michelle Obama showdown? It's a longshot, I know. About as likely as a total eclipse. Hey, wait a minute... Personally, I'm just ready to get the whole thing over withno matter who runs or who wins - and get back to discussing something other than politics. Oh, who am I kidding?

AS I TYPE THIS, THIRD-PARTY CANDIDATE ROBERT F. KENNEDY JR. IS STILL HANGING AROUND, THREATENING TO SWAY THE OUTCOME OF THE NOVEMBER ELECTION. BUT FOR WHICH PARTY? DEPENDS ON WHO YOU ASK.

MAYBE I'M JUST GETTING OLD...

YOU SAY CICĀDA, I SAY CICADA... with Johnny Fletcher

Let's call the whole thing off. Any Ella Fitzgerald/Louis Armstrong fans out there? Try replacing cicada with tomato - does that help? No? I suppose it's a bit of an obscure reference in 2024 but more on that in a bit. First, I'd like to revisit last month's diatribe on lousy Evansville drivers, because things have only gotten worse in the last few weeks. Allow me, for a moment, to take you on a journey down US 41... There I was, safely maneuvering south in the passing lane, when the driver beside me in the right lane decided he needed to come over. Right then. The man literally ran me off the highway onto the narrow shoulder as he jockeyed for position, seemingly unconcerned that a vehicle was already occupying that space. Thankfully, I was able to keep my wits about me, swerving to avoid contact with his car while also delivering a good, long horn blast. And another. Naturally, I received no wave of apology. But here's where the story gets interesting (mercifully,

dear reader). Turns out that a-hole and I were headed to the same business off of Riverside - and as we both pulled into the parking lot, I steeled myself for a showdown, ready to give him a piece of my aging mind. On second thought... See, I'm hardly an imposing individual. Lacking in the muscle department, in other words. This fellow, on the other hand, was big and heavily tattooed like he'd done prison time. Common sense, which so many Americans seem to have precious little of these days, intervened and told me to keep my trap shut and just move on. But in a perfect world I would have laid down the law: "Excuse me, sir, I would greatly appreciate it if you would use your turn signal on the highway and wait for the passing lane to clear before coming over. Is that possible? No? Ok, sorry to bother you. Have a good day."

Now, about that Ella Fitzgerald/Louis Armstrong song... I've been entertaining myself

for days (it's not difficult) by changing/tweaking the lyrics to "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off." The actual words are "You like tomato and I like tomato" - but there's also a part that says "You say either, I say either" and so on. I just kind of combined both lines to create a clearly hilarious hybrid: "You say cicāda, I say cicada." Why? Great question. Well, I don't know if you're in the insect loop, but there's a once in a lifetime event on the horizon - something not seen since Thomas Jefferson was in the White House. Forget the solar eclipse, the real showstopper is happening this spring when trillions of cicadas will join us humans above ground as a result of an ultra-rare double brood emergence. Bear in mind you'll have to travel to western Kentucky or southern Illinois - the two closest hotspots - to get the full effect of the cicada invasion, but what else were you planning on doing? Spending time with loved ones? Get real. Skip the family gathering and get ready to bug out!

FORGET THE SOLAR ECLIPSE, THE REAL SHOWSTOPPER IS HAPPENING THIS SPRING WHEN TRILLIONS OF CICADAS WILL JOIN US HUMANS ABOVE GROUND AS A RESULT OF AN ULTRA-RARE DOUBLE BROOD EMERGENCE.

anythingJohnnyAsk

Old. Grumpy. Of questionable intelligence. Johnny Fletcher has got it all going on. A longtime contributor to News 4U, he's revered by the editor for consistently turning in the correct number of words assigned for various articles. Now Johnny's ready to answer your burning questions, respond to hot takes and more. Any topic, no matter how ridiculous. Let the games begin...

I CRIED WHEN I VIEWED THE ECLIPSE ON APRIL 8 - IT WAS A REALLY EMOTIONAL MOMENT FOR ME. HOW DID YOU REACT TO IT? - KENDRA C.

First, I must note that I believe everything I see and read on the internet - never question anything I come across no matter how crazy. So when a prominent podcaster stated that "real men look directly into the eclipse," I didn't hesitate to follow his orders. The guy surely knew what he was talking about, right? How else would he have a show? Anyhow, I was pretty much immediately blinded - I'm currently dictating this response to my newly-hired assistant who not only types all my articles for me but picks out my clothes to wear each day. It's not a bad little life, really, though it costs more to employ my helper than I make working for News 4U. Details. The good news is that the science of whole-eye transplants is developing every year. Shouldn't be long now. Just hope my government healthcare will cover it.

DO YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR WHAT I CAN DO FOR MY MOM ON MOTHER'S DAY? - BOBBI J.

You've come to the right person, Bobbi. Is that short for Bobbilina, by the way? Beautiful name. Here's what you should do: skip the sappy crap - no flowers, no family pictures. Instead, go straight to Culver's and get mom a generous gift card that will allow her weeks of concrete mixers and diet cokes on the house. It's the perfect way to say "you're wonderful, I appreciate you" without overdoing it. But I must warn you that as soon as that gift card runs dry she'll be expecting a refill - at which point you'll need to gently explain that gift cards don't grow on trees. It will be a difficult conversation, I can assure you - a real role reversal. Hey, as long as you're on the way to Culver's could you pick up a gift card for my mom, too? Can't drive anymore since being blinded and my assistant is busy typing this.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND?TERRELL K.

Terrell, I'm sure you're a lovely chap, but if you're angling for an invite to my annual Memorial Day weekend bash, I must inform you that you're far too late - it's sold-out. Standing room only. What can I say? When you're the star writer for a free entertainment magazine, the world is your oyster, and everybody wants to be around you. I can pencil you in for 2026, though - got a few spots open.

AS A WORDSMITH, DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PROVERB?MATTHEW N.

"The early bird gets the worm" - Terrell would do well to learn from that one.

MAY MUSIC REVIEWS

BEYONCÉ Cowboy Carter Parkwood Entertainment/Columbia Records

With millions of albums sold and a string of highly successful world tours, Queen B had nothing left to prove. But then through the trot of a whiskey drunk horse, a cowgirl was born. No one asked for this, but Beyoncé truly delivered. Her lead single “Texas Hold 'Em” is the perfectly crafted embodiment of southern soaked fun, epitomized by lyrics like, “I'll be damned if I cannot dance with you/ Come pour that sugar and liquor on me too/ Spurs, furs, boots/ Solargenic, photogenic, shoot.” Who knew the Beehive needed a bumpin' bluegrass Bey? Beyoncé is highlighting a whole new genre of music that a few struggling artists have been trying to popularize for years: R&B country pop. She also gave several of those singers - including Tanner Adell, Reyna Roberts, Brittney Spencer and Tierra Kennedy - a chance to strengthen their careers through generous features on the album, notably on “Blackbird.” Forget winning a golden ticket to Hollywood on American Idol, Mrs. Carter is taking these lucky honeys to the honkey tonk. Beyoncé’s latest effort shows her maturity and grace in acknowledging she’s not reinventing the wheel, she’s just having a good ol' hoedown.

- Marisa Patwa

KACEY MUSGRAVES Deeper Well

MCA Nashville/Interscope Records

Speaking of country music, Kacey Musgraves’ sixth studio album is one of her best-selling and biggest chart-toppers to date. But the Nashville singer hasn't lassoed any features or bedazzled her cowgirl boots; she’s shining in her own right, in her own way. Through the soft strum of her guitar, Musgraves sweetly serenades us on "Too Good to Be True," gently encouraging us to face our fears and go after that big love we all search for: “Made some breakfast, made some love/ This is what dreams are made of/ On a cloudy Monday morning/ Summer's gone, and you're still here/ For both of us, it's been a year/ A tidal wave without a warning.” “Dinner With Friends” is a folksy, country dream; “The Architect” is catchy, simple and sweet; and “Lonely Billionaire” conjures up a soulful chill. Musgraves makes no attempt to add razzle-dazzle to her album mix. Instead, she’s stripping things down even more than when she was naked singing “Justified” on Saturday Night Live, laying her heart out on the line. But it’s not for us to judge or question. Rather, she’s diving deeper and asking if we will as well.

- Marisa Patwa

TYLA Tyla Epic Records

South African siren Tyla has enchanted us with her voice and poise on her self-titled debut album. At only 21, she’s blazing a trail for the next generation of African artists, breaking the commercial barrier and attracting a loyal following of fans across continents. Breakthrough single “Water” is an ethereal dream. It’s sexy and sweet, her breathy chorus leaving us breathless with every melodic word. Second single “Art” is a pretty poetic pop hit. Here, Tyla's subtle yet bold: “I'll be yours to keep (I'll be yours)/ I'm your centerpiece, make the canvas speak...Let me be your muse, I'll inspire you/ In ways you won't believe (oh, whoa)/ 50 shades and hues, tailor-made for you.” Tyla’s artistry is fresh and fun, infused with an enthusiasm for life. Her genre palette is also impressive, brushing broad, creative strokes from Afrobeats, pop, R&B and amapiano - a mix of jazz, deep house and lounge music. Other standouts on this remarkably assured debut include “Truth or Dare,” “Butterflies” and “On My Body,” featuring Becky G. Tyla's cross-cultural appeal, swaggy dance moves and gorgeous street style make her effortlessly cool. She may be marketed as a tropical treat, but Tyla's the main course.

-

Marisa Patwa

MGMT Loss of Life Mom + Pop

Hard to believe it's been close to 20 years since this indie rock duo burst onto the scene with the electro-based "Time to Pretend" and "Kids" - two wildly successful singles from the equally well-received debut album Oracular Spectacular. The psychedelic followup, Congratulations, however, suffered the same fate as Weezer's infamous Pinkerton, initially shunned for daring to break from the commercial playbook. It would be years before a re-assessment set the record straight, so to speak, proving that MGMT's foray into Syd Barrett-era Pink Floyd was not just bold but actually pretty good. (Currently, the jury's still out on the duo's overly-sophisticated self-titled 2013 release.) Much to the relief of many fans and, especially, critics, 2018's Little Dark Age veered back into pop territory a bit, with synthesizers coming to the forefront once again. Now, six years on, MGMT's back with Loss of Life which, for the most part, sees Benjamin Goldwasser and Andrew VanWyngarden find a nice balance between their experimental and melodic ambitions. There's nothing here as blatantly catchy as "Kids" nor quite as dense as Congratulations; instead, the guys have produced a mature collection of well-written songs that is challenging at times yet totally worth the investment. - Johnny Fletcher

THE MESSTHETICS & JAMES BRANDON LEWIS

The Messthetics & James Brandon Lewis Impulse! Records

Boasting the rhythm section from legendary altrock band Fugazi and the unfathomable guitar wizardry of Anthony Pirog, the Messthetics put out two mind-bending, masterful jazz-prog instrumental albums across 2018 and 2019 before taking a well-earned hiatus. But as each subsequent year passed, it seemed more likely that the guys had gone out in a blaze of musical glory. At least as far as studio work was concerned. Live shows started popping back up, however, in 2022 and on into 2023, with new songs peppering the setlist - songs that formed the basis of an unexpected collaboration. Well, "unexpected" may be a stretch, considering the jazz elements at work in the Messthetics' sound, but it's still a little surprising - at first - to hear acclaimed saxophonist James Brandon Lewis skronking away over these nine tracks that otherwise would have fit neatly on the band's previous two releases. Yet once you've adjusted to the horn accompaniment, real moments of genius start to appear, especially on the album's moodier tracks, including "Three Sisters, "Boatly," "Railroad Tracks Home," "Aesthenia" and "Fourth Wall" - all of which would work beautifully as the soundtrack to a lost film noir.

- Johnny Fletcher

THE CHURCH

Eros Zeta & The Perfumed Guitars Communicating Vessels

One of Australia's greatest musical exports, the Church - still fronted by the enigmatic Steve Kilbey some 45 years after forming - continue to dazzle long past the band's "Under the Milky Way" commercial peak in 1987. The Starfish album from which that wonderfully moody worldwide hit song was plucked still gets lots of love from fans, but in truth, Kilbey and company have far surpassed it, creatively speaking, with subsequent releases like Priest=Aura, Hologram of Baal, After Everything Now This, Further Deeper and 2023's The Hypnogogue , a career highlight which made numerous year-end best-of lists. Turns out the latter's futuristic concept about a songwriting machine invented by a Korean scientist that dumps fully-formed chart-toppers into your head (but with dire consequences) inspired further studio sessions, resulting in this bonus 15-track companion album. And it's nearly as good. Lead single "Realm of Minor Angels" is one of the Church's finest compositions to date, incredibly evocative and haunting. Other standouts include the alluring "Sublimated in Song," acoustically menacing "Manifesto" and musically adventurous "A Strange Past."

- Johnny Fletcher

BLUES WITH BRAGIN

NICK WADE Feeling Good Is Good Enough

Extra Sensory Productions

Grandson of Johnny Wade, a professional jazz musician who played with Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and other musical greats, guitarist Nick Wade has been busy making a name for himself with stellar blues releases like the acoustic-based Feeling Good Is Good Enough. His latest effort opens with “Sky Line Drive,” a song that allows Wade to show off his songwriting abilities. “Sing With The Angels” is a gospel-influenced blues tune about wanting to see his parents in Heaven one day and perform songs with the seraphim. The addition of bird sounds adds a nice touch on “Broke and Busted” as Wade sings about falling on hard times and not receiving help from his friends. “Ease On Down The Road” features timeless lyrics about traveling.

A guest appearance from Li’l Ronnie Owens on “Lonesome Copperhead Snake” provides the only other instrumentation on the album, but Owens shines on the harmonica. “Ragamuffin” is a brief instrumental that seems perfect for a sunny summer day. A melancholy feeling permeates the aptly named “When You Bury My Body” as Wade sings about mourners not feeling sad at his burial. “The Broken Hearted Man” offers excellent fingerpicking from Wade as the upbeat guitar contrasts the sorrowful lyrics about internal pain. Wade sings about staying away from dangerous people on “Down The Way.” “Engineer Blues” features lyrics about riding a train and receiving kindness from the conductor. Wade reflects on the death of Jesus in “Crucifixion.” The album closes with the moving instrumental “Raggin’ My Blues Away.” For more info, visit nickwademusic. com. - Paul

Bragin

MAY BEER REVIEWS

This month’s beers are available depending on supply & demand at all 10 Liquor Locker locations. Visit our website at www.Liquor-Locker.com.

RHINEGEIST PRETTY BIRD

PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5

A thick white head rests on this pale ale and never completely disappears. A pleasant amount of hops fills the nose. A burst of carbonation hits the tongue along with notes of fruits such as mandarin orange, blueberry, melon and peach. Hop flavors continue in the long finish with some sweet malt also present. Try this limited release while it’s available. Pair it with burgers, Buffalo wings, Asian food, Mexican food and pizza.

JOHNNY FLETCHER - 4.5

I've long been a fan of Rhinegeist beers and Pretty Bird just might be my new favorite. The citrus content is light, adding just enough fruit flavor to enhance the drinking experience without taking center stage. Likewise, the nearly 6% ABV, while noticeable, is hardly overwhelming. Overall, this is a super smooth beverage - one I'll surely return to.

JABEZ MARTINEZ -

4

This is a clear, amber-colored beer with a light peach flavor. The can says there are other flavors like orange and blueberry, but they're not as prevalent. Overall, it's an above standard pale ale - I think Rhinegeist did a good job with this one. It's light and refreshing - a pretty solid beer.

ARIZONA TEA MUCHO MANGO

PAUL BRAGIN - 3.5

No head forms on this beverage when poured into a glass. The familiar scent of mango fills the nose. Similarly, mango flavors dominate the flavor profile while sugary sweetness coats the tongue during the long finish. This drink could see a rise in popularity during the summer. Since it lacks carbonation, adding seltzer will liven up the drink. Pair it with mango sherbet for a cool treat or add it as an ingredient in pineapple upside-down cake.

JOHNNY FLETCHER - 4

Hard teas are normally a bit of a hard sell for me, but this Arizona offering is the outlier - mainly because the fruit content is right up my alley as I love the taste of mango ("I feel like I got a B-12 shot!" Seinfeld, anyone?). Not only that, the citrus flavor totally dwarfs the tea flavor here. It's a bit like enjoying a refreshing fruit drink in a 22oz can. No complaints here.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5

This is a hard iced tea, a cloudy straw-colored beverage that, sure enough, smells like tea. It comes in a hefty 22oz can and boasts a decent 5% ABV. The mango flavor is right up front, masking the flavor of the tea quite a bit - which is a plus for me. One of the better hard teas I've tried.

WARSTEINER GERMAN PILSENER

PAUL BRAGIN - 5

A thick white head tops this beer when poured into a pilsner glass and evaporates slowly. The scents of malt and hops balance the scent profile. Likewise, the malt and hops remain while drinking the beer. American mass-produced lagers can’t hold a candle to this German staple. People raised on American lagers can taste real beer with this one. Pair it with a variety of classic German dishes like hamburgers, bratwurst and German fries.

JOHNNY FLETCHER - 4

This a surprisingly tasty offering courtesy of the sweet grain flavor at work here. But it's offset by spicy hop notes which help to balance everything out. Boasting a brilliant golden color with a healthy white head, this Wartsteiner pilsener is mildly bitter but overall, it's very easy to drink, featuring a low ABV of 4.8%. Keep a few of these in the fridge for a nice alternative to your go-to brews.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4

This is a clear yellow beer. I've always considered this the German Budweiser - a solid pilsner with a little more meat on the bones. Nothing too fancy here with basic ingredients: water, barley malt, hops and hops extract. Simple yet effective - and pretty tasty, too.

PAUL BRAGIN - 5

A thick white head crowns this hazy Imperial IPA and never totally evaporates. A generous burst of hops used during the brewing process controls the nose. The hop flavors, especially pine, hit the tongue hard with the initial tasting and stay during the very long finish. People who enjoy IPAs need to regularly stock this in their refrigerator. Pair this with a wide array of foods like barbecue, salmon or pepper Jack cheese.

JOHNNY FLETCHER - 4

For starters, this Cigar City DIPA means business with a 9% ABV. Not to mention it's brewed with "a nearly-criminal amount of hops," ensuring

there's going to be fireworks. But, in truth, this a fairly medium-bodied offering that's pretty darn refreshing, all things considered. And my preferred mango flavoring is in effect with notes of orange, too. Two of these might well be my limit - but maybe you're braver than me.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5

This is a slightly hazy golden-colored beer. I was expecting a darker beer but then again it's a double IPA. It has a smooth hoppy flavor but it's not over the top. What's surprising is the 9% ABV - it really packs a punch. I've had a few beers from this brewery in the past which I enjoyed and this one is equally solid.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

CIGAR CITY FLORIDA MAN DOUBLE IPA

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Focusing on personal injury, civil litigation, whistleblower claims and workers' compensation law, Siesky Law Firm strives to provide excellent legal services while remaining client and community centered. The Evansville-based trio of top attorneys - including Lane Siesky, Daniel Gearhart and Douglas Briody - boasts years of invaluable experience inside and outside the courtroom. Highly-respected with an impeccable track record, the firm's aggressive representation of its clients continues to benefit the community in myriad ways.

Q: More and more drivers are installing dash cams in their cars as a safety measure, whether in regards to filming potential accidents, police stops, etc. I'm curious if technology is playing an increasing role in cases that you take on/present.

A:Over time, technology increasingly has played a major role in personal injury cases. In fact, Indiana Rule of Professional Conduct 1.1 mandates that lawyers keep up with technology to remain “competent”. Consider the following excerpt from the rule:

Maintaining Competence

[6] To maintain the requisite knowledge and skill, a lawyer should keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, including the benefits and risks associated with the

technology relevant to the lawyer’s practice, engage in continuing study and education and comply with all continuing legal education requirements to which the lawyer is subject.

Dash cams are part of the evolving landscape of injury cases, but there many other technologies that now impact personal injury law. For instance, self-driving technology, surveillance video, doorbell cameras, GPS, black box modules on semi-trucks and vehicles, social media and law enforcement’s body cameras all are common sources of

Disclaimer: The above information provided by Siesky Law Firm, PC, is not legal advice and should not be taken as legal advice. Application of the law is highly fact sensitive and readers should consult with an attorney on legal matters.

evidence that may reveal what really happened in an accident.

Recently, cameras have been installed in the tristate at certain intersections that record license plate numbers. This data can help solve crimes.

So, keeping abreast of technology is a must for a lawyer in today’s world to remain competent in representing clients’ interests.