Four local bands are coming together to help the State Theatre get plastered. Just not in the way you may think.
The inaugural "Easton Rocks!" fundraiser concert, presented by DustinSchoof.com, will be held 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23 in the theater's Acopian Ballroom. The show will feature performances by Lehigh Valley-based acts Carter Lansing, Blue Jean, Alex Radus Trio with Dave Cahill and Roi and the Secret People.
Tickets cost $12 and can be purchased online at shopstatetheatre.org/easton-rocks, at the box office, 453 Northampton St., and by calling 610-252-3132.
Proceeds from the event will go toward the State Theatre's "Get Plastered" campaign to repair years of plaster damage caused by a leaking roof and to restore the venue's ornate architecture.
Roi and the Secret People -- fronted by charismatic lead singer Mike Roi -- have been turning heads throughout the area with their exciting live shows and dynamic rock 'n' roll sound. The group is rounded out by keyboardist Jason Hedrington, guitarist Ed Golden, bassist Glen Radomski and drummer Craig Martyn. Roi and the Secret People released the album, Phoenix, in 2013, which spawned the singles "Drive" and the title track. The band is planning to release the follow-up to Phoenix in 2016.
Radus' music draws inspiration from the American songwriting spectrum and beyond. The trio made their debut in 2014 during Mayfair in Allentown and have since performed throughout the Lehigh Valley and Bucks County, as well as Philadelphia, New York and Boston. Radus released the album Jewels and Tinware in September 2014.
In addition to a successful solo career, Cahill fronted local favorites The Almighty Terribles. The gifted guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer has released six albums and has opened for nationally-renowned guitarist Tim Reynolds, best known for his collaborations with Dave Matthews.
When he is not performing as a solo artist, Lansing handles guitar and lead vocals for Acoustic Kitty Project. Lansing's music draws from Americana, country and folk influences; songs told through a personal narrative that taps deep into the vein of folk and raw passion. He released the album, Shine, in 2013. Shine includes the songs "Porn Star Moustache," "No One Rides for Free" and the title track.
Blue Jean was formed in late 2009 by singer-guitarist Chris Hallett and bassist Dustin Schoof, after a decade of cutting their respective teeth on the Lehigh Valley and Pocono indie rock circuits. Blue Jean combines the pop sensibility of Weezer with the melodic touch of Spill Canvas and the bright hue of Jimmy Eat World. The band released their sophomore album, Alchemy, and the single "Dumb Love," in 2014.