Groove Out of 2016 with The Division Street Machine

Friday, Dec. 30

A more intimate live experience of The Division Street Machine will be a perfect period to the long sentence that was 2016. This gig, at Presque Isle Downs & Casino's Brew Brothers, will be an excellent introduction for those new to the band's sound, ideal for longtime fans who want to get up close to the music, and a fun evening out for all. And The Division Street Machine's members – Jeremy Jaeger, Scott Kuhn, Doug Russell, and Tom Kitchen – are anticipating this show will be a great one, as Jaeger calls Brew Brothers "one of our favorite venues."

The four-piece from North East aims for universal appeal, and Jaeger highlights how the band composes material together. He says that in both live performance and songwriting, "We try not to stick to any single genre," an approach that "allows us to play songs that most anyone can enjoy." At Brew Brothers, the quartet will play recently-written material with cover songs "peppered in," but they'll have a unique, personal twist on these familiar tunes, Jaeger adds. The Division Street Machine will tone their usual volume down a notch to enhance the more friendly atmosphere. But they'll keep their bluesy, groovy vibe running, as Kitchen will play a modified cajon (box drum), and Jaeger will play a hollow-body guitar similar to BB King's "Lucille." Jaeger says these instruments will make "for a really neat feel that you can dance to, but can also groove to over dinner." In other words, bring an appetite not only for the music but for some of the menu offerings.

As for sounds that will satiate the hungriest of music fans, attendees will hear solid, multilayered rocky blues – check out the band's original tune "Thank You." The band has also covered BB King's "The Thrill is Gone" in the past, so keep your ears peeled for more in that vein, too. – Miriam Lamey

5 p.m. // Brew Brothers at Presque Isle Downs & Casino, 8199 Perry Hwy. // free // 860.8999 // https://www.facebook.com/events/896097203859216/