The Saloon's pre-game concert features regional rock that's ready for the mainstream

Yesterday while watching old Sponge videos in prep for that `90’s radio staple’s show at Tremont tonight I came across a comment on YouTube about missing `90s rock music (and lamenting the widespread use of synthesizers and AutoTune). That decade was certainly big on rock and Fusebox Poet, who headlines The Saloon (1000 NC Music Factory Blvd.) Saturday, captures the tradition of heavy yet accessible radio rock that was prevalent then. Its self-titled debut album punches right out of the gate. The polished production, writing and arrangements sound ready for WEND 106.5. The vocals really set it apart from the pack though. Instead of the deep, affected, grunge-influenced style that is so often paired with heavy guitar rock, Drew Cypher takes a softer approach and uses more of his upper register. The result is an anthemic sound that could easily move into the mainstream.

The Charlotte area melodic hard rock outfit headlines The Saloon’s pre-game Ditka SuperBowlEve concert Saturday with Bombshell and Columbia’s Death of Paris (a female fronted electro-pop act that earned my respect in May when they jumped on the Hank & Cupcakes’ bill at the last minute). Admission is $10 at the door, but the band and the venue have both been giving away free tickets. A limited number are available at the NC Music Factory restaurant's bar. 

For more on Fusebox Poet click here or here. Hear Death of Paris here.