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Kirby band selection controversial
by dayna d. landgrebe
STATESMAN STAFF WRITER
Late Night Kirby (LNK) Program Board aims to foster a variety of different acts in a little or no cost, alcohol- free and all-inclusive atmosphere. However, not all bands can be accepted.
“We typically hire a limited amount of groups from Duluth and look for well-known groups out of the Twin Cities instead,” said Bre Ward, student manager of LNK.
While several of the sponsored shows feature bigger names, like Yellowcard and Heiruspecs, many of the concerts offered by LNK are regional bands and acts.
So when a local Duluth band like The Melodramatics wants to play at UMD, they were rejected.
“We’re a mixed group with some members at UMD and some out of college,” said lead vocalist of The Melodramatics,
Jake Winchell. “We play monthly at the Taproom but we mostly tour around Minnesota and Wisconsin.”
Winchell said that playing at UMD would be a great way to reach students who weren’t of age to enter local bars. Yet, two local bands were hired for the month of September after The Melodramatics were denied, according to Winchell.
“There is no real checklist for hired acts, but we look for groups that cater to the students’ interest,” Ward said.
While there are many bands and variety acts that opt to play for LNK, selection is up to the discretion of the board.
“There are often bands that are booked that we [LNK] don’t all like, but we strive to offer a diverse genre of music and entertainment,” she said.
Meanwhile, the prospect of serving as an opener is possible for local bands who want a spot at UMD. If a student is not of age to enter 21+ shows, UMD does offer a fine selection of variety acts and concerts for students to enjoy.
Other venues, such as Pizza Lucè, often have all-inclusive concerts, where bands like The Melodramatics have played before.
If area groups aren’t typically hired, students may not be able to see these local bands at places like The Taproom or Carmody’s.
“We are always looking for suggestions and if there is a group that people really want to see, we will take that into consideration,” Ward said.
There is a general deadline for booking of acts. Planning for fall semester usually takes place over the summer, and spring semester is planned in the winter.
For students that are interested in playing a show at UMD, Kirby Program Board has a Spotlight Chair whose job is to set up shows that showcase student talent, according to Ward.
