Twin Cities-based Americana band, Art Vandalay returns to the Aster to celebrate their new album Champagne & Chandeliers!

Blending the classic roots sounds of The Band and the modern indie sounds of Chuck Prophet and The Black Keys, Art Vandalay creates raw Americana rock with songs that are “impossibly catchy” (Duluth News Tribune).

A garage band at heart, Art Vandalay recorded their earlier albums (Dancin’ with Your Demons and Heaven’s Operahouse) themselves in Twin Cities’ basements and apartments, recorded and mixed by band leader Brandon Henry. Wanting to have the physical and creative space to experiment and rock out a bit more, they recorded at Future Condo Studios in Minneapolis with producer and engineer John Miller. Long-time band members Ben Cook-Feltz (keyboards, vocals), Drew Stevenson (bass), and Calvin Keasling (drums) joined Henry (vocals, guitar) along with special guests Rich Rue (slide guitar) and Colin Monette (guitar).

“The record captures the loose energy of the band and a vibey Americana spirit that we’ve developed over the years,” Henry says. “Each of these musicians are so talented, that I wanted them to add their own feel and take the songs in directions beyond where I could imagine. In addition to rock ‘n’ roll guitar, bar piano, swirling B3, and steady bass and drum grooves, the room and vintage reverb helped create a sound on this record that stands out from anything
we’ve ever done before. ”

Hailed as a “sonic feast” (The Norman Transcript), Champagne & Chandeliers is the perfect companion to a late-night drive, taking a long way home. The songs explore the choices made at every crossroads and how life speeds up and slows down–from the slow groove of “Traffic” to the rocking closer “If You Love Me.” Lauded for his timeless songwriting, Brandon Henry shines on songs like “Architects” and the instant classic “Never See You Again” (co-written by Henry and Seattle songwriter Jaspar Lepak). These, along with all the other tracks on the album, have been a staple of Art Vandalay’s live shows, including their swampy cover of “Angel and Delilah” — written by folk singer Eliza Gilkyson.

Together these songs show what Art Vandalay has become known for along the I-35 corridor — smart songs, great grooves, and raw energy that evokes the early days of Tom Petty.

Art Vandalay Official Website

j. bell & the Lazy Susan Band Band will be celebrating the release of new music with a solo EP by frontman j. bell. The band will perform the new EP in its entirety and round out their set with JBLSB staples from their entire catalog for a unique, don’t miss night!

j. bell & the Lazy Susan Band Official Website

Music 9-11pm

CLICK HERE to save your spot!
$15 cover charge will be added to your tab.