Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Tomorrow night Vandaveer, who are one of my favorite DC bands, will be playing with Melissa Ferrick at Stubb’s inside stage. Hailing out of the nation’s capital via Kentucky, Vandaveer is Mark Charles Heidinger, with help from the lovely Rose Guerin and a host of rotating musicians. In addition to releasing his own records under the Vandaveer moniker, Mark Charles has made a name for himself playing in These United States and fronting The Apparitions. He’s a multi-talented singer-songwriter whose music conjures a myriad of emotions, from haunting and dark to soulful and sincere.

I saw Vandaveer perform in Chicago earlier this year, and it's still one of the best shows I've seen in 2011. It was just Mark Charles on guitar with Rose providing backup vocals. Mark had an easy rapport with the crowd, which gave the whole event a communal feel, and by the end of the set I was left wishing for them to keep playing into the night.

:Vandaveer - Concerning Past Future Conquests: This is off Vandaveer third and most recent release, Dig Down Deep. Vandaveer’s style can be described as a blend of Americana and catchy alt-folk. They do the troubadour rock thing, but on occasion they’ll also expand their sound (as they do on this track) with a full band and beautiful violin orchestration.

:Vandaveer - Dip Down Deep:  This title track off the new album highlights Mark Charles' amazing vocals as well as his gorgeous harmonies with Rose. Is it just me or would this song would be perfect for a movie soundtrack? I picture it playing under the climactic scene of an old-fashion romantic film.

- Dan Corbin -



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