Last Call: Delmag's swan songs
Published: July 13, 2006
Last Modified: July 13, 2006 at 02:57 AM
Delmag delivered an intimate and epic show last week at the Pioneer, pumping the downtown bar full of good vibes and great sounds -- and a bit of nostalgia. After all, in just a matter of weeks, frontman Mike Gorder will head east to hook up with his blushing bride. That means there are just a few chances left to catch much-worshipped rock trio Delmag or Gorder's acoustic act.
The band has only two more shows scheduled: a CD release party July 21 at Chilkoot Charlie's and a follow-up show July 22 at all- ages Bitoz "for the young 'uns," Gorder said. The Koot's show will no doubt be packed. Come early -- especially for the cheap beer ($2-$2.50) before 10 p.m.
Gorder has two more acoustic shows scheduled -- including Thursday at Pioneer for what's shaping up to be a very special night. How special? I'm taking Friday off work. The trusty bartenders pull names for door prizes, and some lucky bar-hopper will win one of those slick Jager cooler machines. It's the final "Jagermeister Night" at Pio, meaning occasional free Jager shots.
The musical lineup is straight off my wish list: Gorder, Jody Mills, Marty Jones and the rowdy boys of Rebel Blues Band.
Bachelorettes at Bernie's
Apparently Bernie's Bungalow Lounge is a required stop-off for any bachelorette party. There were four unfolding there Saturday -- including one gal toting an inflatable male member. On busy nights, you best come with your buzz already on because trying to get a drink Saturday was torturous. At one time, I counted 30 people in line at the bar -- and one bartender.
Gearing up for Meltdown
Summer Meltdown is back. The all-day rock fest is set for July 29 on the grounds of Club O on Old Seward Highway. Pray for sunshine. Local rock heroes 36 Crazyfists headline, with opening acts unfolding all day and including Subconscious, Dekcuf, Strept, Mercy Should Hurt and Hip Hop Anonymous.
The show is all-ages, but Club O will have a full bar inside for over-21ers and a VIP room on the third floor. Tickets are $40 at the door or in advance for $30 at Mammoth Music in the Dimond Center or at www.aksoul.com.
Fly to the Atmosphere
Heather Prunty from Synapse Productions has convinced hip-hop's Atmosphere to visit Alaska for two shows, Sept. 1 and 2, with Brother Ali opening. Show No. 1 is at Wendy Williamson. But Girdwood girl Prunty is good to her hometown and has booked the second show for the Sitzmark at Alyeska Resort. Sitzmark itself is worth a visit. The mountains stretching up behind the bar's massive windows provide a picturesque -- dare I say, atmospheric -- backdrop for a night of awesome music. The service can be slow on these super-busy evenings, so consider ordering pitchers.
Sample Atmosphere's music at www.myspace.com/rhymesayers. Tickets go on sale today. Check www. myspace.com/synapse productions for info.
• Contact bar columnist Katie Pesznecker at kpesznecker@adn.com.
