Dane Says II: Grandma's Sports Garden is the No. 1 place to be June 2

Grandma's Sports Garden is, once again, extending a helping hand to some of our area and state's most promising bands. Like last January's Minnesota Music Young Talent Showcase, Wednesday's All Ages Rock Show is all about connecting fresh-faced concertgoers to the up-and-coming outfits they've "liked" on Facebook. This year's event, like last year's, is being promoted by Jamestown Story mastermind Dane Schmidt. It will include nine (mostly) local bands and, to make sure you're familiar with the groups before you go see them, Dane's agreed to give us an informative little preview of the night's performers:

No Wings to Speak Of

Dane says: "This metal/hardcore band from Duluth will be playing their last show at the Sports Garden [at this show]. They have a really solid live show, they are all solid dudes and they will definitely be missed."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/nwtsomosh

Oh! The Humanity

Dane says: "Oh! The Humanity is a newer heavy band started up by Sam Dean (Foreknown). They've been getting a big buzz around the Midwest and I'm looking forward to hearing them for the first time."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/ohthehumanitymusic

Cities Never Sleep

Dane says: "This pop rock band from Duluth is definitely a local favorite: great guys, great music and a great show."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/citiesneversleep

Jamestown Story

Dane says: "This acoustic pop band from Minneapolis/Duluth just released a cover CD in the spring and is currently working on a full-length scheduled to come out sometime in the fall."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/jamestownstory

Take Cover

Dane says: "This Minneapolis pop/rock band has been a part of our Duluth shows for the last couple years. They have a highly energetic show and always put on a great performance."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/takecoverofficial

First Class Failure

Dane says: "This local acoustic duo is always a great addition to the shows I put on in Duluth. They always do a great job and are great guys."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/firstclassfailure

Emily Haapoja

Dane says: "Emily played the last show we did at Grandma's and did fantastic. She's young but a very solid singer/songwriter. She also has a great following."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/emilyeclectic

Niila Witikko

Dane says: "Niila is a brand new singer/songwriter from Hermantown. I've heard a lot of good things about her, so I'm also looking forward to catching her set."

You be the judge: No website to speak of (sorry 'bout that)

Crescent Moon

Dane says: "Crescent Moon is a Superior band that just won the [Junior Achievement] Battle of the Bands this spring. I'm looking forward to hearing what they are about."

You be the judge: www.myspace.com/crescentmoon3

NEWS TO USE
The All Ages Rock Show, featuring nine up-and-coming acts from in and around the Twin Ports, will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 2, at Grandma's Sports Garden in Canal Park. Cost is $8 at the door. See www.grandmasrestaurants.com/sportsgarden for details.