Thursday, August 11, 2016

Gallows Bound Leaves No One Hanging in the Valley of the Sun

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Photo by Garyn Klasek

Bridging the gap between bluegrass and punk is no easy task. Virginia Appalachian punkgrass band Gallows Bound make it seem that way. Having only discovered them about six months ago, this ensemble is an incredible act to enjoy. This time around, courtesy of the hardworking  Fifthwheel Presents, Gallows Bound came out to play with a packed bill of amazing locals.

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Photo by Garyn Klasek

Kicking things off was Arizona to Oklahoma transplant acoustic country punker D.S. Yancey from local punk band Yancey. It was a very pleasant surprise to finally catch him, having never seen him before. Everything about his stage persona and music, from his voice and words to his guitar playing, bleeds his heart and soul. One thing’s for sure: keep your eyes out for D.S. Yancey in the near future.

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Photo by Garyn Klasek

Up next was honky-tonk country local legends Brea Burns & Jacob Woodside of The Boleros. Frontwoman and rhythm guitarist Burns dropped some old-school styled country gems that both stay true to country but also really rock. It also helps to have one hell of an impressive lead guitarist like Jacob Woodside. Despite having never seen these cats before, they have a name that is heard synonymously with country music in the Valley. After having finally caught them, it could clearly be seen why that is, as they leave you wanting more.

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Photo by Garyn Klasek

Setting the mood for Gallows Bound was local punkgrass band Black Mountain Moonshine. It had been a while as they took a little hiatus but they seem to get even better over time. These guys drive out a fierce punk edge to their folky bluegrass tunes. Now, they seem to roll even harder and darker for an even more brutal experience. Per usual, they got the crowd dancing. That’s no surprise for this fantastic band. We are fortunate to once again have Black Mountain Moonshine gracing us with their presence, leaving us all looking forward to the next opportunity.

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Photo by Garyn Klasek

Gallows Bound closed out the show with yet another marvelous performance. This band is always a treat to see but it was nice to see them playing more of a punk show out here. They add a dark and fun twist to their bluegrass tunes. Fronted by dual guitarists/vocalists Jordan Jyes and Jesse Markle, their onstage chemistry works well, teetering on the edge of chaos. Driving the band is drummer Rob Schultz with his mind-boggling and speedy delivery. Backing him up is upright bassist Aaron Blow, going nuts as he rocks the fuck out. Forrest Veach as well thrashes the hell out on mandolin. Banjo player Justin Carver intricately rages out like nobody’s business. Overall, this was one great show that leaves us hankering for more of the likes of Gallows Bound, who are returning on October 18th to play Yucca Tap Room in Tempe, touring with legendary Detroit punkgrass metal band The Goddamn Gallows, supported by locals Andy Warpigs and Outlaw Inlaws.

~ Garyn Klasek

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