“Poetry and a Beverage” features new band, games
The Sunburst Lounge in the Taggart Student Center was all “abuzz” Tuesday night for the first Poetry and a Beverage of the school year.
The artistic event sponsored by the Student Activities Board brought poets and musicians together for an open-mic night of entertainment.
“It’s a great chance for students to get out and showcase their talents and to be funny,” Andy Dilley, activities vice president said.
Poetry and a Beverage will usually run the first Saturday of each month.
“It is always structured the same way,” said Sara Diem, Arts and Lectures vice president. The only variation is whether the band or the open-mic session is first.
Those in attendance Tuesday could sit and listen to various participants during the open-mic portion.
For extra entertainment there was coloring or writing on paper-covered tables and toy cars. Games like dominos and checkers were also available.
“It’s great to act like a kid, too,” Dilley said.
This latest Poetry and a Beverage also featured 13th Ave. Band from Salt Lake City.
“We all lived on 13th Ave. at one point or another,” said Ben Rogers, lead vocalist for the group.
13th Ave. Band has been together for nearly two years. This was their second trip to Utah State University.
“They were here for Mardi Gras,” Diem said. “The students really loved them.”
The March event helped the band get exposure and adoration at USU. The same sentiment was expressed by those at the Poetry and a Beverage Tuesday night.
13th Ave. Band is composed of: Ben Rogers – harmonica and lead vocals, Jeremiah Johnson – lead rhythm guitar, Josh Johnson – bass, Todd Thueson – drums, Mikey Blommer – lead guitar, and back-up vocals – Jen Belnap and Rachel Clapham.
“We really like playing here,” Rogers said. “We’d love to come back for the HOWL.”
Rogers and Johnson have been playing together for five years. Within the last two years, the group has been having regular practices and playing gigs in Salt Lake City.
“We have eight gigs in the next 12 days,” Rogers said.
13th Ave. Band is due to release a CD titled The Other Side of Lonely by October 1.