Scene & Heard: Phoenix, AZ
posted in: Features
This week, we’re going down to the southwest to take a look at Phoenix, AZ. To break it down, Phoenix seems to have a few genres that are specifically important. First of all, due to its location near Mexico, music created by people of Mexican descent is prevalent. Therefore, in terms of traditional performance, you will find places to hear a lot of mariachi and conjunto music. Also in the instrumental realm, you will find the Phoenix Symphony as well as the neighboring Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Both of these groups are known for high quality performance of difficult classical repertoire.
Moving into popular music, Phoenix centers around pop/singer-songwriter as well as rock music; a pretty standard set of genres for a major metropolitan area. Let’s start with rock. Some of the most notable bands to come out of the area have been Jimmy Eat World, The Gin Blossoms and Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers. In fact, Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World has referred to Phoenix as a mecca for rock music. Beyond rock, there is also a strong representation for singer-songwriters. There are many clubs and bars that cater specifically to solo sets and are very accepting of the “community” feeling.
Just like most cities, Phoenix does have its share of major venues. If you’re looking to catch a major touring act at a very large venue, head over to the Dodge Theater. Here you’ll find shows from the likes of John Mayer, Kinds of Leon and KISS, to name a few. On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find clubs like the Big Fish Pub, which caters specifically to up-and-coming rock acts. Much like many other bars, it also boasts a wide array of other types of entertainment (not to mention a great drink selection).
With blossoming 3 or 4 part harmonies and laid back guitar figures, Phoenix-based OurStage folk act The Sweet Remains brings you one step closer to the golden days of folk. Throw in the modern blues/pop twists evocative of Jason Mraz or John Mayer and they present the complete package. The band has been compared to everyone from Crosby, Stills & Nash to Guster to Paul Simon. Separately, the members’ music has been heard on the Shrek 2 soundtrack as well as a nationally aired Subaru commercial. If you asked the band, they would tell you that one of the best venues around is the Voce Lounge in Scottsdale, AZ. “It’s just got great character. Voce Lounge is the only music venue in town that I have experienced where the artist comes first.” He even mentioned that blues legends like George Benson and Steve Gadd are sometimes found sitting in for shows at this club.
An interesting fact that vocalist/guitarist Brian Chartrand brought up is the difficulty with promotion in Phoenix. “Because PHX is so spread out, you really need to find some ‘champions’ of the music that can help get the word out to friends.” He also recommended targeting your tour as an artist more toward the fall-spring months, as many of the younger demographics seem to leave for the summer. If you’re a fan, Chartrand mentions that there is a venue for really any style of music. If you want to stay up-to-date about who’s coming into town, check out AZCentral.com or the Phoenix New Times for schedules, venues and local picks.
The Sweet Remains is currently on tour through Europe, passing through Denmark and Germany and is also working on their next album. Check out their OS profile and hear their song “Moving in Slow Motion” right here.