Junebug Show Diaries: 2001

Monday, December 31, 2001

12/31/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

December 31, 2001
Big New Year's Bash
The Red Rooster Coffee House
Aberdeen, SD

We didn't know we were playing this show until the proverbial "last minute". Anthony had planned to go to Minneapolis to see Wookiefoot, but his plans fell through. He knew there was a big show going on at the Coffee House for New Year's so he called Tony (at 1:00am Dec 31) and asked if he thought we could get on the bill. Tony then called Dustin and he talked to Dan. At 1:00pm, Tony got a call from Dustin and Dan saying we were on. Anthony received a call from Tony at 2:00pm saying "We're on for tonight. We play at 8:00." Anthony replied, "Sh*t, I guess I better move my a**!"
So six hours before our stage time, Anthony got in his car and drove to Aberdeen from Fargo and arrived in time to play the show. Well, we took the stage and Anthony played "Last Moment of 2001" which was his New Year's song. Then we played a typical high octane, party down, rock and roll to the next episode until everything seems like a dream type of show.
At one point, Dustin refused to play. Dan Cleberg played bass with us tonight. Tony claimed to have almost fallen asleep. Some kids were making out during "Bad MammaJamma"
So as you can see, there were some bizarre moments.
God bless 2001. Or something.

Wednesday, December 5, 2001

12/4/01 - Dustin's Imaginary World - Aberdeen, S.D.

December 4, 2001
Def Leppard Tribute Show
Dustin's Imaginary World
Aberdeen, SD

Encore:
| Pour Some Sugar On Me | Jumpstart My Rocket |

Tonight, we paid homage to the true heroes of rock and roll, Def Leppard. This was our biggest show yet. There were approximately 43 billion screaming fans chanting, "Rock and Roll Legends!" We knew they were actually chanting for us, but we gave the credit where it was due. Threw it right back to the boys, not to mention the drummer, who's only GOT ONE ARM!

By popular demand (and numerous death threats) we decided to cover the album Euphoria in its entirety. You, the fans, couldn't have chosen better. It was a blast learning this music and playing it the one and only time we'll ever play it. We finished off by playing the hit song "Pour Some Sugar on Me" and finally "Jumpstart My Rocket" which was popularized by us, but actually written by Def Leppard. A lot of people don't know that. If you missed this show, sorry. You'll never see it again.

All the proceeds from tonight's show go to the American Endowment for Wheelchair Mimes and boy, they're rich now, let me tell you.

Sunday, December 2, 2001

12/1/01 - Last Chance - Aberdeen, S.D.

December 1, 2001
The Last Chance
Aberdeen, SD

Tonight was the first time we played in a bar and it was also the first time we played with amazing Aberdeen band, Five Point Theory. It was suggested that we play a show with them and we absolutely jumped at the chance.

We used their system and lights and Tony used Matt's (5PT drummer) kit. There was no one there at first so we waited around for people to show up. We started a half hour late, but it was cool.

We played a classic set with our traditional mix of humor and ROCK.

We also played "Da Bomb" tonight. This is the first time we played it without any members of Fed By Doris playing with us. Tony did lead vocals and drums, Dustin and Anthony did guitars and backing vocals. It was pretty sweet.

"Cherub Rock" was the lead-in to Next Episode tonight...a little shaky, but it was okay.

Bryna came all the way from St. Cloud, MN to see the show tonight, so we played "She Don't Love Him" especially for her (one of her favorite songs).

It would have been a perfect opportunity to play "Downtown Liquor Store" and it WAS on the setlist, but unfortunately time was running low and we got cut short.

It was a great show and we look forward to possibly playing with Five Point Theory again in the future.

Saturday, November 10, 2001

11/9/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

November 9, 2001
The Red Rooster Coffee House
Aberdeen, SD

Junebug VS. Fed By Doris

KEY:
Blue = played by Junebug
Yellow = played by Fed By Doris
Green = played by both combined

Soundcheck:
| Knockin' on Heaven's Door [Bob Dylan] |

Communal Encore:
| Peanut Butter / Every Rose Has It's Thorn [Poison](tease) / Sweet Child o' Mine [Guns 'N' Roses](tease) / To the Next Episode / Da Bomb |

Tonight was a unique night in the history of Junebug. One day a long time ago, Dustin mentioned to Tony that Junebug should play "against" Fed By Doris. As many of you may know, Tony plays in both bands. Tony talked to Dan and Jer and it was arranged somewhat last-minute.

The show opened with a soundcheck by both bands playing Bob Dylan's "Knockin' on Heaven's Door." Afterward, a coin was flipped and Junebug won the toss. We decided to go first. But then it was discovered that Tony's vocal mic was not on, so Dustin went to fix that while Fed By Doris opened with "Is That What You Think of Me?".

We then alternated songs back and forth and had some great stuff happen. The lights were set in such a way that when FBD played, the lights were on them and we were in the dark and vice versa. There wasn't as much trash talking as some people may have expected, and the mood was pretty light. In fact, Dan played bass with us on a lot of tunes from the darkess of the FBD side of the stage.

When it was done, we all come together for a "communal" version of "Peanut Butter," a Fed By Doris song that worked well with all of us together. It rocked better than any other performance of it to date. Of course, after that we rocked it to the Next Episode and finally experienced Da Bomb. Again, it was a totally rockin' version of Da Bomb with a full minute long noise fest at the end.

Anyone who missed this show, missed a good show indeed.

Sunday, October 21, 2001

10/20/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

October 20, 2001
The Red Rooster Coffee House
Aberdeen, SD

Tonight was one of the final shows in the OLD stagespace at the Rooster. For those who are not aware, the Coffee House is expanding into the old cardshop next door. The wall is torn down and there's plastic up where the old wall was (you know the one with all the artwork on it AND the one behind the stage with the Jesus picture and the clock...they're all gone). The stage has been moved into the new area already so we set up the "outdoor" stage in the old place and set up Tony's drums there (he used his BLUE set tonight for the first time). Dustin and Anthony set up in front of the mini-stage and we actually had more room than usual.

The Kamikaze Snowmen opened the show playing hits from their newest album, Four Bold Flavors, as well as old hits and improvised songs. The Blue Orange followed with a great set as well.

We played really loud tonight. Since the walls are gone, it wasn't so closed in and it allowed the sound to go a little further...though that was weird too because we're used to a certain sound at the Rooster. It worked to our advantage though.

"Da Bomb" was amazing tonight. A couple of the guys got up from the audience and danced right next to the stage like awesome maniacs. Dan Cl. joined us on bass and Jer joined on vocals. It was an amazing rendition that could never be duplicated and no recording could ever do it justice. Special note to fliphed: Wish you'd seen it buddy...who's sorry? YOU!

"Punktry" was faster than usual tonight. Tony had to stop before the song was over saying "I'm done," because he said his arms were beginning to hurt. Wuss.

At the end of "Downtown Liquor Store" tonight we ended the song by singing, "TO THE NEXT EPISODE" and stopped. Teased 'em. One audience member was heard lamenting, "So close..."

Joshua M. Trumbo joined us on bass tonight for "Bad MammaJamma," "500 Miles," and "Found My Boogie." Then he wandered off into the audience...Oh Josher, where did you ever run off to?

There were old fans and newbies alike at this show. It was a great "high octane" show tonight. Thanks to all who showed up!

Sunday, September 9, 2001

9/8/01 - Red Rooser - Aberdeen, S.D.

September 8, 2001
NSU Welcome Back Party
The Red Rooster Coffee House
Aberdeen, SD
The Big Holy Spatula Tour 2001
"Live to Rawk, Rawk to Live!"

Set One:

Encore:
| To the Next Episode |

The final stop on the Big Holy Spatula Tour 2001 brought us back to good ol' Aberdeen at the Red Rooster.

The Blue Orange opened for us tonight and we took the stage with our cover of "Iron Man" changed to "Ironing Man" by Anthony. It went over well.

When we couldn't quite come together to end "Raise Your Voices," Dustin gave a piece of advice to the crowd saying, "Word to the wise for those of you with bands; write endings to your songs." After Anthony kept going after we ended "Casanova," Dustin gave another piece of advice. "Another word of advice to those of you with bands; if you have endings, stick to them." Ah, such wisdom.

Tonight was the first performance of Punktry with the International Version along with it. That also went over well...

Will Brown from the Blue Orange joined us tonight on "Bumblebee" and Elizabeth Andrews from Plaid Moon came on board for "Like a Dream". Huge thanks to them...they're awesome!

During "Found My Boogie," Dustin broke a string and Anthony had to stall by playing the Tootie Roll song. Tony then mentioned an instance on tour when in the van, Anthony put a sock in his face. Anthony then proceeded to talk about his feet. Dustin's string was then fixed.

We encored with "To the Next Episode" complete with the "Secret Agent Man" tease, the Mozart, and the Beethoven. When the song ended, Dustin jumped off the stage and Anthony jumped and fell.

Tuesday, September 4, 2001

9/3/01 - University of Mary - Bismarck, N.D.

First and foremost, huge thanks to Emily McKay and Nicole Torkelson for hooking us up with this show.

We got to Bismarck late in the afternoon and arrived in time to check out Brian and the 4 vivacious 7 and Ten Cent Haircuts. We took the stage at approximately 7:15pm and rocked until well after 8:30. We felt very welcome and the only negative feedback we received was that some guy thought we were stupid for not having a bassist. We're working on that, Guy.

Fun stuff happened tonight of course. "To the Next Episode" included Mozart and Beethoven again and at the end, when Dustin leapt from the stage, one of his shoes catapulted in the opposite direction. Temporarily crazed by the incident, he removed his other shoe manually and hurled it at the other. He played the rest of the show barefoot.

Other than the great fun we had and the warm reception from the University of Mary, not many other extraordinary events took place.

Once again, thanks to Emily and Nicole.

We're off to Aberdeen next for the show on Saturday on the Big Holy Spatula Tour 2001.

Monday, September 3, 2001

9/2/01 - Grampy Pat's Backyard - Jamestown, N.D.

Encore:

| Found My Boogie | Bumblebee / Jumpstart My Rocket |

First and foremost, we wish to thank Dan Cleberg, or MEEPO as he's sometimes called, for lending his P.A. system to tonight's event. And even though we didn't name the tour after you, we're greatly appreciative of your generosity.

Tonight was the big kickoff to the North Dakota leg of our mini-tour; The Big Holy Spatula Tour 2001. It was in Anthony's parents' backyard right outside of Jamestown, ND. The crowd wasn't as big as we were expecting, but it's not size that matters. Dustin's parents and sister were among those present. Josh Trumbo and Paul Tebben drove from Fargo and opened for us with a few Kamikaze Snowmen songs.

We had a bass player tonight! Josh Trumbo who has jammed with Anthony and Dustin before joined in tonight's show as a fourth bug. His performance was great and we welcome him back.

The mosquitos were a little nasty and our OFF didn't seem to be working too well. We formed an alliance against them, though under Anthony's advice.

Tonight, we played in town where Tony's sister Wendy infamously robbed the Liquor Store. The song was requested tonight by Dustin's dad; former Senator Dale Marks.

"To the Next Episode" had some fun surprises tonight involving Beethoven and Mozart. I got a girlfriend A-it is summer, so let's go have a summer. Marjorie's hair is made of margerine? Wow, some cool stuff happened.

When we exited the stage, there was chanting and a demand for an encore. You know us...keep the public happy. So we played three hits; "Found My Boogie," "Bumblebee," and "Jumpstart My Rocket".

We're off to Bismarck in the morning for the next show on the Big Holy Spatula Tour 2001.

Saturday, June 9, 2001

6/9/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

Set One:

The Young and Stupid

Set Two:

Junebug

The Young and Stupid

Tonight was Bugger Danny Ch's final show until he comes back from Florida in January. He will be sorely missed. Tonight's show was dedicated to him.

Plaid Moon started out the show with the Young and Stupid following. In a shocking twist that no one saw coming, the band that was billed as the Young and Stupid was us. We decided to open for ourselves as an opportunity to play some more mellow stuff that we otherwise might not play live (i.e. Sweet Nothings, Bother, Chambermaid). On "Like a Dream" Will Brown from The Blue Orange joined us on acoustic guitar. Thanks to him. Rock on, brah!

As we were finishing up the Y&S set, a severe thunderstorm was pulling into town. There was plenty of lightning and rain and many members of the crowd enjoyed frolicking outside between sets and songs.

Junebug started our set behind the big ol' Wolfstock banner playing "Vacation to Oblivion" while Elizabeth Andrews (from Plaid Moon) announced us. When the crowd roared, she pulled it down to reveal Junebug in all our rock glory.

Tonight's show had a good vibe, but it was also a weird vibe. Maybe it was the barometric pressure from the storm, but things seemed odd for some reason. But no matter. It was all good.

Tonight was also the official release of the newest live album, Junebug Live at Wolfstock. We had a good response and a lot of people bought the CD and we signed a lot of autographs.

We wish to extent a special thanks to Anthony's mom who made it to the show tonight! (She wished "To the Next Episode" would have lasted longer) It was good to see her again.

And huge thanks to Danny Ch for always being such a superfan. He'll forever be the Chief Junebugger.

Saturday, May 5, 2001

5/5/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

Quadman Movie Premiere

Set:

Tonight was Bruce Likness's BIG night. It was the night his movie Quadman world-premiered at the Red Rooster Coffee House. Tony made an appearance in the movie as the Head Delucian (an evil alien race warring with the Quadrians) and he was also credited with the choreography of the final climactic fight scene. Anthony assisted in operating a glowing Delucian orb. Junebug appears on the soundtrack for Quadman, so all three of us got to ride in a limo from the Premier Party to the Premier. Anthony escorted Amy Heidenreich and Tony escorted Amanda Brandt down the red carpet. Dustin emerged from the limo with triumphant cries of "I'm better than you!" directed toward the crowd of approximately 30 screaming Quadman fans.

As Dan Cleberg (Red Rooster co-owner, Quadman director and actor) introduced us, we played a spacey version of" Vacation to Oblivion". He ripped down the movie screen and unveiled us as we broke into "Piper".

We didn't have long to play so we ripped through our set and gave it all we had to a huge crowd of 112+. The Duke of Bicycle Riding (tony), the Earl of Kung Pow Chicken (anthony), and the Mayor of Worcester (dustin) ended the set with "Jumpstart My Rocket," a song which is featured on the Quadman soundtrack available soon.

We have the distinction of being the first band in the history of the Red Rooster to open for a movie.

All proceeds from the movie went to His Touch, and HIV / AIDS compassion organization.

Junebug arrives via limo on the red carpet

Friday, May 4, 2001

5/4/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

End of the Year Party

Set:

Encore:

| Downtown Liquor Store |

The Big End of the Year Party was tonight! On the outside stage were Rob Drapeaux, Plaid Moon, Clöwn, and December Stars. Inside were Junebug and Fed By Doris. Junebug took the stage at about 10:25 after a brief interview with Bruce Likness regarding his movie "Quadman" set to premier tomorrow night.

We opened with "Raise Your Voices" and moved on the classic "Cake". It has become tradition for us to ask Bruce Likness to sing the third installment of the Cacophany Trilogy. Tonight, he fervently screamed, "See my movie! See Quadman!" Ah, Brucey..We love you.

Bad MammaJamma was one of the high points of tonight's show. We had hippies dancing in the isles and clapping along. Thanks to Lennie Davis for giving it his all on the dance floor.

We closed tonight's set with two of our jam-worthy songs, "Like a Dream" and "Bumblebee". Tonight felt good. We had a GREAT crowd who insisted we play "Downtown Liquor Store," so we did.

Special HUGE thanks go to Josh Trumbo who was so kind as to give Anthony a ride to Aberdeen from Fargo in the event of unfortunate circumstance.

Tonight marked the first anniversary of our first show. It was at the End of the Year Party 2000 (May 6) that we made our first actual appearance. We wish to thank Dan Cleberg, the Red Rooster Coffee House, Chesky's (RIP), Danny Ch., Bryna, Heather, PJ, and everyone who has supported us and made this a successful year for Junebug!

Saturday, March 24, 2001

3/24/01 - Thunder's Lair - Aberdeen, S.D.

WOLFSTOCK 2001

Tonight was Wolfstock 2001(woodstock + our school mascot = wolfstock). The show opened with Clöwn followed by December Stars and then Junebug.

This was a great show for us. We were pumped and the crowd was unbelievable! We couldn't believe the amazing response we got. Anthony drove all the way from Fargo to be here and it was well worth it. The entire crowd found their boogie right away and danced the whole set through. The Junebuggers were up front singing along and the people who had never seen us boogied with the best of them.

Tony used Mike German's drum kit (which is one of Gregg Field's old kits) and there was a sweet sound system run by Corey (drummer from Five Point Theory). The balance was sweet and the energy was high. We actually had room to move around too instead of the 8'X 8' stage we've become accustomed to.

If ever we've had a "high octane" show, tonight was the night. I pity the fool that missed this one. You should be sad.

Following Junebug were Outback, Chaser, and Five Point Theory who praised and called for support for local bands that create their own music. Kudos to all the bands that performed tonight. It was a great show!

Saturday, February 17, 2001

2/17/01 - Red Rooster - Aberdeen, S.D.

Dustin and Tony Play the Hits of Junebug

Set One:

Set Two:

Tonight was "Dustin and Tony Play the Hits of Junebug." Since our good friend and musical companion now lives out of town, we're forced to continue without him from time to time to keep the music alive. Tonight was one of those nights. Dustin and Tony came together to play the songs acoustic for a small crowd in an intimate setting.

The first set was planned. Dustin on guitar and bass, Tony on guitar and vocals. We had a setlist written out and stuck to it, mostly. These were favorites of ours that we figured we could pull off without much practice. Also included were two Fed By Doris songs (aka Don Johnson songs) and Tony's newest song from his solo work. When we got to Fargo Gypsy Girl, we got a pleasant surprise; Anthony was actually at the show but dressed as Bruce and wearing a Bruce mask. They must have switched identities. Overall it turned out well. The audience sang along, laughed along. We had fun with what we did. It was a fun little experiment. Though many of the songs lacked the power they require, the quiet, intimate setting of tonight was nice.

After we played, Brian Schultz, Eric Topp, and Chris Ruud played for awhile. Dustin suggested to Tony that we play another set. This we did. Dustin on guitar, Tony on drums, guitar, and vocals. As this set was completely spontaneous, we had no setlist. So we took requests from the Junebuggers present. We played common favorites and old rarities. In all, we had over two hours of material from tonight. And though Tony had frequent memory lapses on lyrics, the show went well.

After the show we stayed at the Rooster till 3:30am hanging with the Buggers singing random songs that came to our heads. We even signed autographs. Cool.

Friday, January 26, 2001

1/26/01 - NDSU Memorial Union - Fargo, N.D.

Soundcheck:

Well we packed up our gear and headed up to Fargo, ND. Finally, PJ could walk to a show. But he didn't. We kidnapped him and made him show us where the venue was. Fliphed walked though.

The crowd was diverse. We had some loyal fans find their way up to Fargo from Aberdeen. We had a few friends from high school show up and that was a nice surprise. There were also many many people we had never seen before.

The gig was in the basement of the Memorial Union which also houses a pool hall, food court, bowling alley, and video arcade. There were many people engaged in these activities while we played the evening's music.

Most of tonight's songs hadn't been played since November, some not since September. So as you can imagine, things started off rocky, but we fell into the Flow as the night went on. With the exception of a couple false starts, and a couple shaky endings, the rock felt good.
Afterward, Anthony attempted to trash our hotel room, PJ did the Elaine dance, Bryna and Becky did some synchronized swimming out of water, and we were all awakened in the hotel by a woman's soothing voice saying, "Ladies! Would you like to look more beautiful?"
Special thanks to Dex for running the board, Dan Cl. for the use of extra cymbals, and Tony's family (Laurel, Angell, and Hunter) for showing up.

Junebug Show Diaries