Being a native of Chattanooga, I heard some cool, eclectic, local bands growing up. I moved to Rome, Ga in 2007 and have been living there since. So when I came back to visit the Scenic City this week I discovered ( and rediscovered) some great music that I had either forgot about or had been missing out on. Believe me when I say that you should give each one of these artist a fair listen.
1. Katrina Barclay- Song- "Nightmares"
Katrina Barclay has been a dear friend of mine since our years at Shorter University in Rome, Ga, A Lookout Mtn native, Katrina is one of the finest singer/songwriters you will ever come across. Period. She has some amazing homemade crafted songs that will take you from the heart of Seattle to the heart of Jesus. She does not mince words when conveying her message and her music reflects her creativity. Her recently released EP "Nightmares" is her most personal work to date. In other words, BUY THIS RECORD. It will not disappoint, especially on a chilly night at your local coffee shop.
http://noisetrade.com/katrinabarclay
2. The Turning - Song- "Out of My Hands"
The Turning are a Christian rock group that released their one and only record "Learning to Lose" in 2006. This is one of those bands that you wish would come out with more material. Their potential seemed high as they released a Top 40 hit in "Out of My Hands." For some reason or another, though, this is the only record we get from a band that seemed like they could be going places in a hurry. Despite this you would still be remiss if you did not at least give the songs from this record a fair shot.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVhEzvBoca0
3. Concerning Lions- Song- "Canon"
The indie scene in Chattanooga is a little more alight than one would think. Concerning Lions busted out into the Chattanooga scene in 2009 with their debut EP "A Movement Back And Forth" and with it their first single, "Canon." This band is most reminiscent of bands like Copeland and Barcelona. Their smooth, chill tones are sure to satisfy the indie alt rocker in anyone. Their soaring melodies and strong vocals will leave you wanting more from this indie rock group. The future is bright for these guys.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-hYpku_qZQ
4. Noah Collins- Song- "Somewhere New"
I have been a huge fan of this guy for a long time now. If you are looking for Chattanooga to provide a folk hero, this is him. Noah released "Heart On a Line" in 2009 and, in my humble opinion, hasn't looked back since. His familiar vocals and acoustic driven melodies are such to make your heart feel nostalgic. He has been a featured artist at Eddy's Attic in Decatur, Ga and still plays around the Chattanooga area a good bit. His song "Long Distance Call" is sure to make any Chattanoogan feel instantly nostalgic. His deep roots will pull you in and keep you coming back for more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OqmGDgxr1g&feature=c4-overview&list=UUZ0LrtqmgqvioFJuiPG6Gow
5. Eric Pendergrass- Song- "Wayward Ways"
I knew Eric pretty well in High School and from that time I could tell you that this guy was going to make some noise in the music world. His first steps toward that come with his debut record "Ghosts." He searches for God and love in this record that weaves the story of a man who is simply broken and haunted by the Ghosts of his past. This album will quickly resonate with anyone who has struggled to shrug off the burdens of loneliness and regret. Although he lives in North Carolina now, he will always have roots in Chattanooga. His album "Ghosts" is available on i tunes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqrtAJtzj9M
6. Telemonster- Song- "Moon Boots"
Comparable to groups like The Shins and Leagues, this band is indie to the core. From the moment you listen to them you hear catchy melodies that will play around in your head all day long. Strong vocals and eclectic instrumentations will make Telemonster a band that will keep you coming back on a regular basis. They just sound like the sun as it sets over the Walnut St Bridge and reflects off the Tennessee River. Check these guys out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SCa8fiMgas
7. Raenbow Station-Song- "City Lights"
These guys fit perfectly in the same mold with Telemonster. These two groups are definitely the future of music in Chattanooga. More driving melodies and heart felt lyrics will make you want to blare their music as you driving around Lookout Mountain or even as your drive down Broad St heading for the North Shore. There's not much else to say, but check them out soon.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anIj0unFu08
8. Moonlight Bride- Song- "Wild Heart"
As you listen, I think you start to hear a pattern of musical influence and similarity. This group can identify themselves with the likes of The Shins. Perfect for a lazy winter day, this band will keep you on the cool side of nostalgia. The will slowly make you reflective. That's the charm and power of their music. Approach with caution, but enjoy nonetheless.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uI0QGBU8t-4
9. Nevertheless- Song- "In or Out"
This is the most well known of all the Chattanooga group. Nevertheless burst onto the scene in 2006 with their first major release via Flicker Records called "Live Like We're Alive." This record boasts their one and only music video single, "The Real." They have cracked the Christian charts twice with "The Real" and their second single from their second album "In the Making..." called "Sleeping In." They decided to call it quits in 2009 and left their fans with an acoustic driven EP entitled "When I'm With You." The their punk alt music influenced many bands around the Chattanooga area and Im sure more around the US. The pop and drive of their songs from their first record combined with the reverent, acoustic driven songs from the second record make up a great anthology for a truly missed band.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OItjYp_jyg8
All of these bands are worth a small piece of your time. They will not disappoint.
Thanks for your kind words about "Nightmares"!
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