Brewtones benefit show rocks

Eisley, Max Bemis of Say Anything and East Texas local Jake Germany rocked Brewtones, in Tyler, Texas. The Friday evening show in Tyler, Texas, was a bit sweaty, but it was more than worth it.

I say “rocked,” but it was an acoustic evening. But think figuratively!

The music was a benefit for area charity, Steal Kill And Destroy. All the performers shared their charity by trotting out new tunes. Christie DuPree joined Jake Germany for a new song of his, Eisley premiered a new bridge for “Smarter,” and played new track “Be Kind,” also. Max Bemis even shared a couple of new Say Anything songs.

My personal highlight was obviously Eisley, who failed to disappoint me for the 32nd time. They played 16 songs, and shook off a few flubs with humor. The sound was great as far as I could tell, and everything seems to be shaping up nicely for their third album, which they are recording this very moment. (This also lead to some of the false-starts, since they are so locked into playing with studio click tracks.)

Max joined the band on stage for the new rocker, “Smarter,” which still rocked in spite of the acoustic instruments. That song gets better every time I hear it.

After Eisley wrapped up, Max took center stage for his own music. He shared a variety of personal tunes, Say Anything classics and a song from his “Two Tongues” collaboration. I was not terribly familiar with his work beforehand, but I enjoyed the candor of his lyrics, especially for the newer songs. A crowd sing-along helped cap his set nicely.

I met and talked to friends old and new through the evening, which was very nice. I didn’t get to say bye to many people, but I guess that’s how shows usually are, anyway. But if we chatted, it was nice to talk — and in some cases — it was nice to meet you!

Brewtones is revving up again on June 20, with Companion, Seymoure and Christie DuPree. It’s definitely worth attending, and it should be another great evening of music and friends. I hope to see you there!

Here are some other shots form the evening!

Jake Germany.

Christie DuPree singing with Jake Germany.

Make sure to check on my Flickr for more!