What’s high in the middle and round on both ends? No, not Dave Chappelle on a bun, I’m talking about Ohio, and more specifically, Columbus! Ruby Tuesday was the scene for the final week of first round shows, and neither the weather nor the small crowds could deter the rock show. Thursday we began the rock with Savvy Gordon G. They were lead by two beautiful lead vocals, and the band portrayed a sound distinctly their own. Day 9 was sans bass player for the night (applications are being accepted) but still rocked with their aggressive vocals and steady drums. Mayavirupa hit the third spot on the night with strong original rock let by powerful vocals and rock solid riffs. Somewhat Minor cleaned up the night with a very solid performance. Great work from the singer and guitars! 7th Cycle led off our St. Patrick’s Day celebration with a great alt-rock set. Their excellent vocal harmonies and original material was the perfect beginning to our biggest night of the weekend. Singed came out fighting with creative drumming and moving vocals over solid guitar work and bass. Unknown Origin had strong vocals and great backup harmonies, and hit the stage in the middle of the evening. The fourth act, Matthew Thomas, was acoustic for this show, and definitely was a switch from the strong rock sets earlier. He has excellent vocal quality and both players had some strong acoustic guitar work. Heart of Slate finished the night off. First gig? Didn’t sound like it. Their solid sound and beautiful harmonies from the backup singers laid perfectly over the band’s sound. Very versatile, but not overdone! Saturday… recovery day from St. Pat’s? Maybe for you, but not for Emergenza! Our set started off with Leroy, an interesting blend of rock styles. The guitar and drum gave us some really great vocals. Soul Junkies came with some really good stage presence to accent their well-rehearsed music. I was a bit disappointed that I didn’t get to hear more of their original stuff, but I’m holding out for round 2! The Head Change showed their skills with funky bass, solid guitar and strong vocals. Very tight band! Luxury Pushers finished the night off in true punk style. Their set was filled with energy from start to finish, and was a blast to watch as well as to hear! The fourth day in what seemed like a never-ending week (thanks to the fine bartenders at Ruby Tuesday) was started with the strong performance from Lesson Learned. They had great presence on stage and energetic music. Set to Numb hopped up next. They brought a really strong heavy rock set, featuring excellent guitar work and aggressive vocals. Third on the night was Forgotten Few, who had a little liquid courage and came with some strong original material. Eight Bodies High wrapped the weekend with a strong set from a young lead singer with a slight likeness to Jack Black, and although they were missing one guitar, they still had a very balanced sound and put on a great show. The weekend in Columbus is one I won’t soon forget (at least the parts I remember), and I suggest that you all come and visit this city soon. Matter of fact; get your ass there for the 2nd round! One Love,