Written by George Scott
Fickle weather caused SUSWA (Southern Utah Songwriters Association) to pull the plug on the Ancestor Square Concert Series in downtown St. George on Thursday night, May 14. Poor conditions for the hours leading up to the concert resulted in a decision to reschedule the bands for a future performance. However, the bands were eager to play. As concert goers started showing up, the bands became even more determined and said they were going to play if at all possible.
During set up, the rain continued as tarps and plastic garbage bags were used to cover equipment to protect it from the elements. As the 7:00 hour ticked closer, people continued to show up, and the rain lightened to a sprinkle. Though dark clouds loomed overhead, by the time the hands on the clock indicated showtime, the rain had stopped completely, and seats were filled in the downtown venue.
The opening act was Azure Sweet, making their public debut. This recently formed band is made up of several accomplished musicians: LaTressa Smith on lead, guitar, ukulele, and harmonica; Melissa McArthur Kesterson on harmony and violin; Colin Meeks on guitar, mandolin, backup, and some lead; and Kevin Till on the undeniable stand up bass. Their Americana/contemporary folk style combined with their own style brings a sound that is both familiar and fresh as they mixed in both originals and covers.
As openers for Thursday’s Ancestor Square Concert Series show, they were only just barely able to open the box of what they have to offer. Judging by the reception of attendees, they are on their way to becoming one of the hot commodities in the local music scene. Azure Sweet’s next scheduled performance is Aug. 12 at 8 p.m. at the Washington County Fair. However, following their performance last night, there were discussions happening for additional bookings. More information can be found at www.facebook.com/AzureSweetBand, where they will be posting upcoming events.
Following Azure Sweet was the seasoned group known as Beans and Wheels. They brought their energetic and interactive music mix of country, folk, and rock with Americana roots to play and have fun. They played a few covers and a host of originals. It is easy to see why this group is so popular in the local music scene. They know how to interact and bring the crowd into it with toe tapping, hand clapping, singing, and laughter. They are definitely a good time.
Beans and Wheels is a duo of Audrey Sizemore (“Beans”) and Greg Wheeler (“Wheels”). Both musicians sing lead and duet as well as play guitar. However, they also include a full band in some of their performances. Last night, they brought Sarah Walther to sing backup, harmony and some lead. (Oh, and the “diva tambourine” must be mentioned for those in attendance last night.) Michael Moulton added his talents on electric guitar, electric mandolin, and saxophone. Kevin Till stayed standing with his upright bass and added deep dimension. And Gordon Strang jumped in and banged it out on the drums.
Beans and Wheels can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Beans-Wheels/448013885244315 This group is a lot of fun and always mixes it up well when they perform. Their next scheduled performance will be at the inaugural first Friday George Streetfest taking place in downtown St. George on June 5 from 6-10 p.m. More information on this community friendly event can be found at https://www.facebook.com/events/456122861208494/.
The official rescheduled performance for the bands has yet to be determined; however, the next Ancestor Square Concert Series is Thursday, May 21, at 7 p.m., and will feature Joel Van Berkum opening for Stillhouse Road.
