It's tough to think about the arts scene in State College after the events at Virginia Tech earlier this week. But it always seems as though musicians do wonders for the healing process in times like these. After 9/11, there was the Concert for New York. After Hurricane Katrina, there were the all-star singles. Then there's Live Aid, Farm Aid, Live 8, Band-Aid, and so on.
In State College, the healing process can start when a couple of bands in the area do what they can to turn this into a positive situation. The Man, a jazz/rock fusion band and one of the winners of last week's Battle of the Bands competition, is teaming up with a bluegrass band called Hay Sugar for a benefit concert this Thursday at Chronic Town.
As of yet, there's no indication that there's a national tribute show in the works. But if history holds true, there should be. And considering this week's events plus the fact that a couple State College bands got a show together in two days, there's no excuse for the national acts not to get something together.
If you're looking to give to a good cause, here's your timely opportunity. The Man is the only original funk/fusion band in State College and they won a spot at Movin' On, so they must be doing something right. Hay Sugar is a new band and one of few bluegrass acts in State College. Plus, Chronic Town is a sweet hang. There's something for everyone, and it's for charity. Rock on, Hokies.
