I hadn’t been to an all-ages show lately. So when I saw this one featuring Schools (a band I’ve been hearing a lot about lately and been wanting to see) it was an easy choice on this particular Saturday night. Actually, there were three bands on the bill as Schools were joined by Televermin and Peace of Mind. I arrived near the end of the Televermin set and it sounded like they were picking up right where they left off the last time I heard them at Great Escapes Records & Comics (http://www.bgdailynews.com/articles/2011/08/03/the_amplifier/music/doc4e2d9ec870688536596995.txt). Their opening set once again displayed the many talents of these up and coming, 18-ish musicians.

What I wasn’t expecting or even looking for was the outstanding set put on by Peace of Mind. This band of 16-ish kids played earlier this year at the Locals Helping Local show at the Capitol. This is what I love about getting out and seeing new things – so often you are pleasantly surprised. So it didn’t take long for Peace of Mind to get my attention. Their brand of original alternative rock is energetic and melodic; a great combination. It also has a lot of classic rock influence which is right up my alley, but certainly appeals to the younger set. Fronted by Daniel Shultz on vocals and a pair of talented guitarists in Clayton Gipson and Mark Lowry, they are all backed up solidly by the rhythm section of bassist Mac Slattery and Will Houchin. I’m going to be keeping my eye on these guys and you might want to as well. Check them out on Facebook where you can hear several of their tunes for yourself. Good stuff!

Finishing out the evening was the band I came looking for – Schools. Recently signed to a recording contract, the band primarily plays originals written by lead vocalist/guitarist Jeremi Simon. I’ve had the opportunity to hear some of Simon’s earlier tunes when he was soloing around town and know he can write a good song. His work with Schools follows that positive trend. The music is definitely hard-edged rock with several audible influences. You can certainly hear some punk style, but I’d still call them a rock and roll band. Other influences you may pick up in their tunes would be grunge and head bang, and it certainly is loud.

Surrounding Simon are band members who are no strangers to the Bowling Green music scene. JD Minor is on lead guitar, Russell Brooks plays keys and guitar, Joey Bennett attacks the bass all night long, and Daniel Marlowe is still rocking his own home made drums. If you know these guys (and you should if you read my reviews, so no more clues) you should understand why I’ve been wanting to see them. You just can’t go wrong with this lineup. They have a page on Facebook, and can also be found on ReverbNation and Twitter, so go do your research if you must and then go see them. Or you could save yourself sometime and just take my word for it – they’re good.  

Schools and Peace of Mind performed at Lava Lounge in Bowling Green, KY  on 11/20/2011.

About the author: Pennman bought his first 45 at age nine and has been hooked on rock ever since. He has spent much of his disposable income on music, especially live performances. He writes reviews of the shows he sees and keeps a keen lookout for upcoming shows in or near Bowling Green. He has a BA in Communications, specializing in journalism, and has dabbled in music himself, both as a player and instructor. Find more of Pennman’s work at www.associatedcontent.com/user/165511/pennman.html or visit him at www.myspace.com/pennman_bg or www.facebook.com/pennman