A block from the CASA Party on the plaza event, Long and McQuade featured an array of local musicians ranging from classic rock to metal to country, June 15. I only caught a few of them.

I caught bits and pieces a of a variety of acts including a solid set of classic rock from Driving While Blind, who played a hot version of “Going Down,” a hit covered by everybody from Jeff Beck to Govt. Mule.

Caste of  Shadows made a long awaited to the stage to play big, loud, riff heavy, profanity laden hard rock music. They  played a very tight set and commanded the stage.
 Also in the metal vein, was Shocked Standards, a talented young  group of teens who  played an upbeat set of original metal and classic metal covers.
 They always bring a smile to my eye when they crash into their version of the Power Rangers theme and did so again.

 One band  I was  glad I caught was The Old Man River band. They had a trimmed down version on stage as they usually have two drummers and include most of the Long and McQuade staff. They played a strong set of modern country music  with lots of harmonies and energy.

— by Richard Amery, L.A. Beat Editor