Top 5 Shows of 2014
Bastard Bearded Irishmen -St. Patty’s Parade Day Concert -Rex Theater -Saturday, March 15
BBI is probably the best live show in Pittsburgh and pair them up with the craziness that is St. Patricks Day in the city and you know you are in for a treat. The guys were up to their usual antics and Jimmy Bastard wasn’t slowed down a bit by the cast on his leg, as he rolled around stage on an office chair.
Harlan Twins -EP Release-Bayardstown Social Club -Saturday, July 26
The Harlans are the cream of the crop in Pittsburgh. They released their two song 7 inch ep, at Bayardstown Social Club in the strip. The band played a stellar set in the rain as lightning flashed all around the city and would have likely kept going if the police didn’t shut down the show.
Grand Piano-LP Release Show -Rex Theater -Friday, June 13
Grand Piano had a big 2014 and rose to prominence in Pittsburgh. In support of their debut album “Leap Year,” the guys played a packed Rex Theater on Friday the 13th.
Ruckus Bros. performing Dark Side of Oz -Mr. Smalls -Saturday, November 29
Dark Side of Oz was a mash-up of The Wizard of Oz and Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. The Ruckus Bros. teamed up with Touchfaster for this unique concert. Not only did the Ruckus Bros. nail the legendary album but they were also dressed in Wizard of Oz costumes.
André Costello Visual EP Release -Black Bird Studios -Saturday, March 1
André Costello wanted to release his “Summer’s Best,” ep in a different format and he did just that with a visual ep. With help from a kickstarter campaign, he raised money to put the three songs to a music video and then had a viewing party and mini concert. The intimate set was fun for both the band and audience.
Top Albums of 2014
Bastard Bearded Irishmen-Rise of the Bastard
BBI came out swinging with their sophomore album Rise of the Bastard, solidifying themselves as a band with longevity. This album easily topped their debut, continuing to hone their distinct style. Check out tracks “Mamá,” “Red” and “Whiskey, Rum, Bourbon, Beer.”
Andre Costello and the Cool Minors- The Rattling Arcade
André Costello and company put it all on the line here for The Rattling Arcade. The easy listening album shows off the groups superb musicianship. You must listen to “Steady Loaded People,” and “Took Our Cause.”
Grand Piano-Leap Year
Grand Piano’s long awaited full length album, “Leap Year,” was definitely worth the hype. Featuring a top notch horn section and the gravely vocals of Zac Kane, this is a fun album to listen to. Check out “California,” and “Punk Rocker.” Follow the link to see their awesome video for “February Blues.” http://vimeo.com/98358117
Chet Vincent and the Big Bend-Unconventional Dog
Chet Vincent and crew changed their musical style a bit in 2014 and it payed off for them. They took a heavier, bluesier approach on “Unconventional Dog,” abandoning their folk/alt country style of prior albums.
The result, gems like “Limousine,” and “Doubter’s Blues.”
Nox Boys-Nox Boys
Nox Boys had a big 2014, releasing their debut album entitled Nox Boys. The band not only were signed by Get Hip Recodings through hard work and ambition, but they are also paving the way for under 21 bands all over the city. On top of all that the album is killer! See a video for “Military School” below.
5 Favorite Photos of 2014
Photo 1. Jimmy Bastard of Bastard Bearded Irishmen
Photo 2. Slim Forsythe recording his country music TV pilot
Photo 3. Cello Fury rocking out at Pittsburgh Winery, opening for Joy Ike
Photo 4. Steve O’Hearn with Squonk Opera performing Pneumatica
Photo 5. André Costello at Deutschtown Music Festival
Coolest Events of 2014
HughShows Live @ Eide’s
Anyone who made it to one of the 12 HughShows knew they were part of something special. Every month boasted an eclectic line up featuring some of Pittsburgh’s finest talent. Hugh Twyman went all out for his ten year anniversary covering the local scene and 2015 will be strange with out HughShows Live at Eide’s.
Slim Forsythe Live from Nied’s Hotel
Slim Forsythe took to kickstarter to live out a personal dream of his. He set out to produce a pilot episode for a country music variety show. He pitched the concept, recruited producer Dino Distefano and released a killer high quality video featuring the Beagle Brothers and Molly Alphabet. The video is a must see, check it out below.
Deutschtown Music Fest
This well organized, all day, indoor and outdoor festival showcased the best Pittsburgh has to offer. Located in the city’s North Side neighborhood, it might seem like an unlikely area to host such an event, but proved to be the perfect location. In its 2nd year the fest was bigger and better than ever.
All Scene Entertainment Festival
All Scene Entertainment Festival was a vision of a Mr. Smalls employee to bring multiple genres of music and art together under one roof. Not only was their rock, hip hop and pop bands involved, but some of the Burgh’s top comedians were on hand also. We hope for big things from this cool fest in 2015.
WYEP Summer Music Festival
WYEP celebrated their 40 year anniversary and put on their 17th annual music festival featuring locals, the Red Western and national acts Elizabeth and the Catapult, Valerie June and the Sam Roberts Band. The family friendly event is held at Schenley Plaza, best of all its free.
Honorable Mentions
We added a couple events as honorable mentions, mainly because we did not attend the events but heard great things about both.
-R.A.N.T., Lawrenceville’s Rock All Night Tour
-HughShows Secret Santapalooza