DARRYL’S GROCERY BAG CD RELEASE PARTY with Midpoint and The Johnsons
Saturday, January 13
The Underground
Darryl's Grocery Bag have only been playing for three years and have already won over the all-ages scene, recorded a CD and toured extensively. Not bad for a band that has yet to crack into the over-18 nightclub scene.
The bright-eyed four-piece was formed in a high school in Olds by a bunch of friends who all had an affinity for snowboard video soundtrack stars Face to Face, Screaching Weasel and Pennywise. Years ago they would drive into Calgary, ask punkety rock lifeline Brock McAndless (The Browns, Field Day) to introduce them to what was hip, and stay to watch gigs by Chixdiggit, Downway and Showdown 76.
In true high school fashion, the band name came before the band as did the desire to play instruments for fun on the weekends. Since then it's been no turning back for Todd Gesshe (guitar, vocals), Craig Florence (drums), Jay Radke (guitar) and Jeff Thompson (bass).
While a large number of local bands don't tour – choosing instead to gig comfortably around Calgary – one of the most notable things about DGB is that they're not afraid to get out there and do it. From playing a packed basement show in Craig's house (yeah, it was a little totaled), sleeping in their van in Hollywood until a cop came by with a tow truck, driving long distances to cancelled shows, and camping out in a desert for five days between gigs, DGB has been taking it in stride and having the time of their life. And it looks like the good times are about to get better.
Now celebrating the release of the vibrant A Simple Idea (on Meter Records), produced by the band and Dave Alcock, DGB are poised to win over anyone who listens to the album. A Simple Idea is full of plucky hooks, perfect vocals (think of a young Rod Slaughter from Duotang) and memorable crescendos taking the listener on an enjoyable and meaningful ride. It was an exhaustive project and the band is excited that the album is out.
"We've been looking forward to it for so long – this whole thing, the CD, the tour, everything – we've been basically planning it for a year now," says Todd.
"Plus, we all couldn't wait to quit our jobs," adds Jeff.
"Songs that give you shivers, that's what I've always liked in music. It's just gotta give you a feeling," says Todd.
Offering honesty with punchy emotion and catchy instrumentation – delivered by four humble guys – this is what punk rock should be all about. |
