“We’ve never played that before. How did it sound?” the lead singer shouted into the microphone. Never playing in the Red Carpet before, Wreckin’ Wednesdays attracted this band and other local and original bands to St. Cloud. A few weeks ago Wreckin’ Wednesdays began and will continue bringing in a variety of talent through genre oriented nights, genres that may catch attention like hip-hop, rock, and all-female bands. Although some covers may be snuck into the line-up, these bands play all original songs.
“The demand for local bands and original talent” was Chris Pitz’s motivation for starting this event. Formulating this idea began years ago for Pitz so he is familiar with plenty of talent. Chris Pitz is the sound technician and booking agent for the Red Carpet. Jenna Reid, found accompanying him Wednesday, was there supporting Pitz and the bands playing.
“I have been here two times to watch the bands,” Reid states.
This past Wednesday, bands The Dead Bundy and The Neat Neat Neats from Minneapolis were found rocking the crowd with their electric beats. The Red Carpet will be holding this event every Wednesday of the week. This coming Wednesday, Feb. 22 will bring the bands Pop Vultures and the Ones Known as Mezmerize to stage. The following Wednesday, Feb. 29 the bands Chaostrophoe, Tiger Blue, and Jonnyalten will be showing.
“Wreckin’ Wednesdays begin at 9 p.m. and ends around midnight-ish,” Pitz says. Each band is allowed a stage set of 30-40 minutes, allowing for an intermission and stage preparation.
Chase Binnie, a local artist and audience member, said, “It’s fun and my favorite place downtown. It has the best stage for live music.”
Next to Binnie was Eric Peterson, another involved audience member who said, “I came here because my friend plays the drums.” These audience members were looking for a good time and a way to entertain themselves during the week, and Wreckin’ Wednesdays gave them the opportunity.
Everyone is always welcome to listen and if that isn’t enough, Chris Pitz is open for more talent. He can be reached by e-mail at deadendage@gmail.com. Contact him with information and a sample of music via Facebook or Free Verb Nation.
If you are looking for something to do to break up the week of homework, think of going downtown. The Red Carpet holds these jam sessions every Wednesday at 9 p.m. and everyone is welcome. Also, for those hiding away talents this is the perfect opportunity to get a name out there.
