| |  | | The Wendel Brothers Band | Rockzilla was at the Lone Star Cafe & Club the first night that the Wendel Brothers Band played there. The host introduced them and said it was their first time to perform on stage. It was painful, for them and for me to watch. They admit now that they were extremely nervous, and it showed. They toughed it out and made it through their set. It was several months before I saw them again, and the difference was amazing. When they took the stage, I thought, "Aw hell, I gotta go." But they started to play and old Rockzilla was amazed. What had happened? These guys were GOOD! | | The band members are Todd Wendel on guitar and vocals, brother Travis Wendel on guitar, mandolin and vocals, and Chris Pierce slappin' the up-right bass. I talked with Jay Johnson about that first night they played at Lone Star, and Jay said that he advised them to figure out what they wanted to do, what they wanted their music to sound like and to just concentrate on that one sound. To focus. Whatever Jay and the other veteran performers told the boys, they must have listened. They have started writing their own songs and they are learning to perform with their own style. They've learned how to be The Wendel Brothers Band. I really enjoyed their set that night. They are relaxed on stage now and seem to really enjoy performing. Todd and Travis really harmonize nicely and Travis is a fine mandolin player. Chris keeps things lively slappin' that bass. The band has recorded a few songs and the recording is available at their shows. Since they didn't send me one, I was only able to listen to the two available on their web site. | | "Adios" is the story of a guy who realizes the relationship just ain't that great anymore so, "Adios Baby". "Life in the Country" is about, well, life in the country as compared to the city. I like 'em both. They're simple songs, but some of the greatest country songs are incredibly simple. Both feature Todd on lead vocals sounding a little like John Prine, and Travis doing a great job singing harmony and on the mandolin. Chris really stands out on "Adios". The Wendel Brothers Band may not be "ready for prime time" yet, but they are fun to listen to and I definitely expect them to continue to improve. You can see them most Wednesday nights at the Lone Star Cafe in Dallas. Check these guys out, I think you'll enjoy it. For the latest show dates check out their web site at: The Wendle Brothers Band You can e-mail Rockzilla at: rockzilla-at-rockzilla.net Or Mail to: Rockzillaworld PO Box 802962 Dallas, TX 75380 | |