Weekend Music Roundup: No Bar Needed for 12-Bar Blues

Ballwin and Ellisville may not have The Pageant, but a vibrant blend blues, rock and some old-school ruckus always manages to make its way west. Check out the music groups coming to town this weekend, and let us know what other acts from the area you plan to hit up.

Melissa Neels Band
7 to 10 p.m., Friday, April 15

Cover: No

In line with Lone Wolf’s reputation for booking the greatest blues acts in St. Louis, the eponymous Melissa Neels heads up a simple but genuine blues-rock band. Always interested by music, Neels began her musical career in earnest after meeting blues star Bonnie Raitt.

In addition to performing classic standards, the group's shows feature a strong showing of original compositions, many of which are slated to appear on their new album, “Shine.”  This collection of 10 songs written by Neels follows the tried-and-true twelve bar blues style, but with a subtle touch of something contemporary that creates the band's unique sound.

Decedy
7 to 10 p.m., Friday, April 15

Cover: Yes; 21+ only

Bassist/lead singer Dylan Becker, Guitarist Deric Becker and drummer Chris Schmitt form a power trio of alternative rock with their group Decedy, and just because they are young teens doesn't mean that they do not know how to rock. 

The group’s overall style has a strong similarity to punk superstar group Green Day, but they manage to retain some original voice, especially in their original songs that appear on their debut, self-titled, album. While the group’s age will mostly appeal to the under twenty-one crowd, the edgier music would also be a good fit for someone who likes to blow off a little steam during the weekend.

Shrinking Violets
9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Saturday, April 16

Cover: Yes; 21+ only

In case you have a craving for some straight rock, has you covered there as well.  Some may describe Shrinking Violets as a party band – which is a reputation the group seems to embrace when playing at the Ballwin venue.

“Sky is a totally fun place to listen to live music and we love playing there,” Violets guitarist Dave Stolze said. The feeling is mutual, since Shrinking Violets plays at Sky every month. Sporting a repertoire that spans everything from Steppenwolf to Buck Cherry, these guys are sure to have something for everyone. This group is the perfect accompaniment for either relaxing with a drink or dancing off the stress of the week.