HC’s Bolander brings a variety of talent to the stage
For several years now, HC art teacher Eric Bolander has been making and selling music, both as a single artist, and as a member of alternative music group Alcatraz Shakedown.
Alcatraz Shakedown was first formed nine years ago, right here in Lexington. The group plays a style of music that takes from several influences, including Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Grunge, and the blues.
“To tell you the truth, I knew a guy who knew a couple of other guys,” Bolander said. “We all got together, and realized that we sounded good together, and it just took off from there.”
Alcatraz Shakedown has currently released one album together, entitled The Right Side of Whats Left. The band has performed this album at various venues throughout Lexington, including The Green Lantern, Cosmic Charlie’s, and Manchester Music Hall.
“We tend to play a lot of 18 and over venues,” Bolander said. “But that’s not to say that we play exclusively at those.”
The band has played at venues such as CD Central that are open to the entire public.
“We play at some places that could be accessed by the 18 and under crowd,” Bolander stated. “It’s normally a great time and I encourage people to come out to see us.”
It doesn’t stop there for Bolander; he also has a successful solo career. He primarily plays folk and soul music, with a blues undertone.
“I often employ people with certain musical talents,” said Bolander. “I once had Ms. Foster play violin for me.”
Bolander currently has one EP (Extended Play), and another one on the way. Bolander expects that the new album will be out March 1st.
“My first-ever solo album will be out sometime in late February to early March,” Bolander said. “And Alcatraz Shakedown’s won’t be far behind that.”
Bolander will be playing along with other Lexington artists at the Breathe Lexington event. Breathe Lexington will be on Feb. 19, and will feature a variety of local art.
For more information about Bolander’s solo career and Alcatraz Shakedown, visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/alcatrazshakedown and @AShakedown on Twitter. In addition, Alcatraz Shakedown has its own website www.alcatrazshakedown.com .Alcatraz Shakedown’s music can be found on Soundcloud, Spotify, and iTunes. Similarly Bolander’s music can also be found on Soundcloud and Spotify.
Bolander will be playing his solo album live at The Green Lantern (on the corner of 3rd and Jefferson St) Friday night. Doors at 9pm, it is $5 dollars for three bands, and there is an age requirement of being 21.