Written by: Jodi Kaufer
Category: Previews

Big High, The Filthy None, and theZim & Arock @ ToST Lounge 7/15/09  9pm  $5

Wednesday = Hump Day…You’ve survived the beginning of the week and now the weekend is in sight. What better way is there to celebrate the glory of a Wednesday than to treat your self with some great local music?

Big High www.myspace.com/bighighmusic

Seattle’s newest rock powerhouse, Big High, is the brainchild of two veterans in the local music community. Originally formed as an acoustic duo in 2008, Mesa (Black Vinyl All-Stars) and Ari (AriSawkaDoria & Swampdweller) quickly decided they were destined for a much bigger sound. Mesa’s raw and powerful vocals command attention and are reminiscent of Robert Plant or Roger Daltrey. Whether shredding the guitar or laying the path to a beautiful melody, Ari Zucker once again makes things look easy and effortless. Keeping the momentum going and the bass lines humming, Jens (The Drunken Guitarists) and Sandy (Panda Conspiracy) respectively, were plucked from their vast network of mutual musician friends by Mesa and Ari to complete the sound they were striving for. Big High is creating a rock revival for the ages…..come join the revolution!

theZim & Arock www.myspace.com/outsidethelines

Also no stranger to Seattle’s music scene, theZim started his music career playing in the band 94^th Street with KJ Sawka and TJ Berry. Since then, he’s spent his time perfecting the sound he describes as Bob Dylan meets Run DMC; after catching a couple shows around town, I have to agree. Zim’s often catchy yet meaningful lyrics, combined with bouncy guitar licks and an occasional blast from his harmonica, offer the audience an energetic set. It’s difficult not to share the enthusiasm and excitement he so obviously has while performing. Zim is joined by the drummer with the best posture, Arock, who supplies the steady rhythm and witty banter that makes this duo unique. As if sharing his music wasn’t enough, Zim also uses his shows as a way to fundraise for and support Autism Speaks. For more information on how to donate or to track theZim’s progress, visit: http://givenow.autismspeaks.org/thezim

The Filthy None www.myspace.com/thefilthynone

After a hiatus of nearly two years and some changes to the line-up, The Filthy None has returned. Front man Jake Carden (Electric Jake Rhythm Test, Drunken Guitarists) breaks out of his funk and soul groove and gives his vocals a dose of rock and roll. Original member Dan Schmidt has returned to guitar, keys and vox duties. New to the group is Tyson Klassen on bass and Jordan on drums. Only time will tell if this new incarnation can be sustained for the long haul so for now, I look forward to some healthy doses of the dirty, filthy fun these guys are known to deliver.

See you at the show! Be there or be Square!