It is always great to see Jon Martin and the New Weather Machine play.
Martin was backed by drummer Kyle Harmon, bassist Paul Holden and guitarist Jason Oakes. I caught their last couple set of impassioned, slightly slower than usual progressive rock at the Slice, Friday, Dec. 7, where they were opening for Vernon pop/rock band She Hangs Brightly.
As usually they played big riffs, a big groove and featured Martin’s impassioned vocals and jam fuelled leads.
It was wonderful to see Eryn Kleyh backed by her band She Hangs Brightly, including guitarist Dean Gordon-Smith, drummer Ken McGregor and loquacious bassist Luke Kowalski.
She has played here twice this year as a solo act, but having her band behind her really fills out the sound of her music.
Together they played appealing, catchy pop rock music showcasing Kleyh’s beautiful powerful voice, which was reminiscent of No Doubt’s Gwen Stefani especially on a song called “Tragedy.”
They played quite a few upbeat originals including “Part of Third Pack” and “Part Time Fool.”
Kleyh danced and weaved in front of the microphone like she was a hippie at a folk festival, closing her eyes blissfully, while her bandmates played psychedelic solos.
The spirit of the ’80s was strong in She hangs Brightly as they broke out some choice covers including an impressive rendition of Martha and the Muffins’ “ Echo Beach,” and an excellent version of the B-52’s “ Love Shack,” one of several featuring Luke Kowalski singing lead vocals.
Kowalski took centre stage on a countryish number from his country band as Kleyh left the stage to go to the bar for a break.
