Counterpart and The Lawn Darts perform at O.C. Tanner Amphitheater
Written by George Scott
Dixie State University continues the 2015 Summer Concert Series at the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater in Springdale with two fantastic acts on Saturday, July 18, at 8 p.m. The evening’s performance will showcase the music of both Counterpart and The Lawn Darts.
This weekend’s concert will feature the debut of singer/songwriters Kevin Jones’ and Jared Johnson’ collaborative project, Counterpart. Johnson has toured the western U.S. in a handful of bands as both a guitarist and drummer, most notably with the roots rock outfit Cub Country. In addition to Counterpart, he currently plays guitar in the hard rock band Lyonhead and has recorded two albums with his roots rock band Jackpines. Johnson has shared the stage with many national acts, including Cross Canadian Ragweed, Fictionist, and Mother Hips, to name a few.
Kevin Jones has also played guitar and drums in a number of bands, including The Inbreeds with Josh Warburton and Jerry Love. He is a published and recorded songwriter, and his acoustic fingerstyle technique blends seamlessly with Johnson’s electric guitar textures and leads. Their vocal harmonies make for a big, memorable sound. They will be playing a set of their original favorites as well as a handful of covers. Counterpart has a website where a live video sample can be viewed at www.ctrprt.com.
Southern Utah’s own premier Americana rock band The Lawn Darts will headline Saturday’s show. The Lawn Darts have opened for Styx, Kansas, and the Beach Boys, as well as headlined some of southern Utah’s biggest venues, including St. George First Night, the Washington County Fair, O.C. Tanner Amphitheater, and many more. With influences from Styx, Van Halen, Bon Jovi, Night Ranger, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and other greats, they bring fun and excitement while performing a variety of classic rock and originals.
Comprised of some of Utah’s top musicians, The Lawn Darts’ main objective is for everybody involved—both band and audience—to have fun. The group will showcase the talents of Travis Brown on vocals; Lisle Crowley on guitar and vocals; Don Shelline on keyboards, flute, percussion, and vocals; Robbie Matheson on bass; and Steve Gustaveson on drums.
Nestled in between the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, the stunning 1,500-seat O.C. Tanner Amphitheater creates an intimacy and majesty second to none. This gem is easy to miss as it is tucked in the canyon, just off the main drag leading millions through Springdale with Zion National Park as their destination. Many are not even aware of the magic this treasure holds throughout the summer hosting live concerts.
Tickets for Saturday’s 2015 Summer Concert Series show are $15 for adults, $6 for youth, or $38 for the family and can be purchased through the DSU Box Office by calling (435) 652-7800 or going online www.dsutix.com. The O.C. Tanner Amphitheater is located in Springdale at 350 West Lion Blvd.
