Smokin Strings Magazine

09/02/2026

09/02/2026

𝐊𝐄𝐄𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐅𝐋𝐀𝐌𝐄: 𝐏𝐋𝐔𝐒𝐇 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐑𝐎𝐂𝐊'𝐒 𝐅𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐆𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐒

PLUSH

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐡, 𝐍𝐘
Debonair Music Hall, 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐤, 𝐍𝐉

𝐀𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐲: 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐨𝐧

𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐲 𝐨𝐟: 𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧 & 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲


Rock and roll never dies it just keeps reinventing itself. Women have always been a part of rock and roll, but never get their just due. One band that is trying to change all that is plush. I kept seeing their name on my facebook feed for years. Photographers that I know have posted pix of them on concert photography pages and I have always been intrigued. I finally decided to take the plunge. I've seen them twice in a week on their North America tour and I couldn't be more impressed.

Plush is made up of singer, songwriter, guitarist Moriah Formica, bassist and back up vocalist Ashley Suppa and drummer Faith Powell. With four Billboard Top 40 hits to their credit the band has been slaying audiences here and abroad. Moriah was the youngest person to get a "4 chair turn" on The Voice at the tender age of 16. From the opening number to the last note Plush hits hard. Moriah's vocals are nothing less that astonishing. She can scream with the best of them and be soft and tender when the song calls for it. If you can get a 4 chair turn on The Voice singing Heart, you know there is a bright future ahead. Ashley on bass has been dubbed "the female version of Cliff Burton". Her hypnotic groove drives each song. Her thumbing bassline makes your chest feel like it's going to explode. Faith on drums is a beast, she hits so hard the room reverberates.

If you've never seen Plush, do yourself a favor check them out, you'll not be disappointed.

09/02/2026

𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐖𝐍 𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐋, 𝐔𝐍𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐓
𝐂𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐆𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐙 𝐑𝐄𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐀 𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀 𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐁𝐔𝐓𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐘 𝐎𝐅 𝐈𝐓𝐒 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐂𝐘

𝐁𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂. 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡 | 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞

Some bands play Pantera.

𝐂𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐆𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐳 𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐭.

Returning to their hometown roots at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington, Illinois, Cemetery Gatez delivered a performance that proved why they've earned a reputation as one of the nation's premier Pantera tribute acts. With more than two decades of history behind them and recognition as "America's #1 Pantera Tribute" by Bandsintown, the band didn't simply perform Pantera's music. They recreated the aggression, intensity and brotherhood that made the original band legendary.

The crowd may not have filled every inch of The Castle, but the fans who came showed up ready for war. From the opening riffs to the final notes of the evening, fists filled the air, horns were raised and every ounce of energy the audience had was thrown right back at the stage.

Sometimes it isn't about how many people are in the room.

It's about how much noise they can make.

𝐀 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐰 𝐁𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧

Long before Cemetery Gatez became a fixture on festival stages and club calendars across the Midwest, it began right here in Bloomington, Illinois.

Over the past 21 years, the band has evolved into one of the country's most respected Pantera tribute acts, carrying the music of Dimebag Darrell, Vinnie Paul, Rex Brown and Phil Anselmo to audiences who still crave the raw power of one of metal's most influential bands.

Today's lineup reflects just how far Cemetery Gatez has grown.

𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐇𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 – 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 – 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫 & 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐨𝐧 – 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐬 & 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨 𝐝𝐞 𝐥𝐚 𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐚 – 𝐃𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐬

While Henderson and Arrington represent the band's Illinois roots, Mills and Octavio de la Pena bring Texas firepower to the lineup, creating a combination that feels fitting for a band carrying Pantera's legacy.

𝐀 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐬

Cemetery Gatez wasted little time reminding everyone why Pantera's catalog remains untouchable.

From "Yesterday Don't Mean S**t," "New Level," "Becoming" and "5 Minutes Alone" to crowd favorites like "I'm Broken," "Walk," "Cowboys From Hell" and "Mouth for War," the band attacked each song with conviction rather than imitation.

Instead of relying solely on the obvious hits, Cemetery Gatez dug deep into Pantera's catalog with songs like "Regular People (Conceit)," "Strength Beyond Strength," and the powerful pairing of "Domination/Hollow."

For longtime Pantera fans, it wasn't just a concert.

It was a celebration of the band's entire legacy.

𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧'𝐭 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐔𝐩

The night's most memorable moment wasn't planned.

Midway through the performance, drummer Octavio de la Pena hit his kick drum with such force that it finally gave out.

For a moment, the show paused.

Not because the band didn't know what to do.

Because the equipment simply couldn't withstand the punishment.

As Octavio de la Pena and bassist Nate Arrington dropped to work, patching the damaged kick drum with tape, guitarist Brian Mills stepped forward and unleashed an extended guitar solo that immediately captured the audience's attention.

There was no awkward silence.

No nervous waiting.

Just another incredible performance.

With the repair still underway, Cemetery Gatez smoothly transitioned into "Planet Caravan," Pantera's haunting interpretation of the Black Sabbath classic. The slower, atmospheric song proved to be the perfect bridge, allowing the repair to continue without breaking the night's momentum.

By the time "Planet Caravan" came to an end, the kick drum was ready.

The tape held.

Octavio climbed back behind the kit.

And Cemetery Gatez went right back on the attack as if nothing had happened.

It was one of those moments you can't script, and one that perfectly illustrated the professionalism of a band that has spent more than two decades onstage. Equipment failed. The performance didn't.

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞. 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲.

As the unmistakable opening groove of "Walk" thundered through The Castle Theatre, Cemetery Gatez invited several fans onto the stage to help sing one of Pantera's most recognizable anthems.

Among them was Brian Graham of Phantom Lordz, who had opened the evening with an outstanding tribute to Metallica.

Seeing musicians from both bands sharing the stage wasn't just a cool photo opportunity.

It was a reminder that tribute bands aren't competing against one another. They're preserving the music that shaped them.

For a few minutes, the line between performers and audience disappeared. Fans, musicians and friends became one loud choir, shouting every word back toward the stage.

Those are the moments people remember long after the lights come up.

𝐀 𝐅𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡

The final stretch of the evening showcased exactly why Cemetery Gatez continues to earn praise wherever they perform.

"Cowboys From Hell."

"Mouth for War."

"Cemetery Gates."

"Hostile."

And finally, an emotional closing performance of "Floods."

Rather than ending with another burst of speed, the band chose one of Pantera's most respected compositions to close the night, sending the audience home with one last reminder of the musical depth that existed beneath all the power and aggression.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬

Cemetery Gatez isn't successful because they dress like Pantera.

They aren't successful because they copy Pantera.

They're successful because they understand why Pantera mattered.

They capture the groove, the intensity, the precision and, perhaps most importantly, the attitude that made Pantera one of heavy metal's most influential bands.

Watching Cemetery Gatez return to Bloomington wasn't just another stop on the calendar.

It felt like a homecoming.

More than two decades after getting their start in Central Illinois, they're still carrying that same spirit onto stages across the country. On this night, they reminded everyone at The Castle Theatre exactly why they've become one of the most respected Pantera tribute acts in America.

If you couldn't have Pantera...

For one unforgettable night in Bloomington, Cemetery Gatez was about as close as it gets.

𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝: Cemetery Gatez (The Pantera Tribute Band)

𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞: The Castle Theatre

𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐛𝐲: Xplicit Impressions

More photos will be up at Xplicit Impressions soon

09/02/2026

𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐀 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐍
𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐎𝐌 𝐋𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐙 𝐃𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐀 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐀𝐒𝐇 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐂𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐒 𝐀𝐓 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐑𝐄

𝐁𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂. 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡 | 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞

Some tribute bands are content with playing the hits. The Phantom Lordz isn't one of them.

Taking the stage at The Castle Theatre in Bloomington, Illinois, the Springfield-based Metallica tribute band treated fans to a set that celebrated the band's formative years, leaning heavily into the aggressive thrash metal that helped define an entire generation. While attendance may not have filled every corner of the historic venue, the fans who came were there for one reason: Metallica. From the opening notes, they made enough noise to make the room feel much larger than it was.

For nearly an hour and a half, Phantom Lordz reminded everyone why Metallica's music has remained a cornerstone of heavy metal for more than four decades.

𝐀 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐭 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐬

The Phantom Lordz isn't interested in simply looking like Metallica. Their focus is recreating the energy, musicianship and attitude that made the original band legendary.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐩 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝:

𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐦 – 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐦 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫 & 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐬
𝐀𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐰 𝐒𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐧 – 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫
𝐊𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐥 – 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐮𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐧 – 𝐃𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐬

Brian Graham's vocals captured the grit and aggression fans expect from classic Metallica, while Andrew Sorenson delivered the intricate guitar work that has become synonymous with James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett's legendary partnership. Kevin Dunkel anchored the low end throughout the evening, allowing Shaun Tobin to drive the band's relentless rhythm from behind the kit.

The chemistry between the four musicians was evident from the first song and never let up.

𝐍𝐨 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 𝐒𝐞𝐭... 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐡

Rather than leaning on Metallica's biggest commercial hits, The Phantom Lordz crafted a setlist that rewarded longtime fans.

Opening with "Creeping Death," the band immediately established that this wasn't going to be a greatest-hits performance. They followed with classics like "No Remorse," "For Whom the Bell Tolls," "Welcome Home (Sanitarium)," "Harvester of Sorrow," and "Ride the Lightning," keeping the crowd locked in from start to finish.

As the night progressed, The Phantom Lordz dug even deeper with "Disposable Heroes," before launching into the undeniable power of "Master of Puppets."

The evening closed exactly as it should have... loud, fast and unapologetically heavy with "Seek & Destroy" followed by the blistering "Damage, Inc."

It was a setlist built by fans, for fans.

𝐀 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐝 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲

Although the audience was smaller than many would have expected for two outstanding tribute bands, that never translated into a lack of enthusiasm.

Fans sang along, raised fists, flashed the horns and headbanged throughout the night, creating an atmosphere that made The Castle Theatre feel far more intimate than empty. It served as another reminder that the quality of a concert isn't measured by attendance, but by the connection between the performers and the people standing in front of the stage.

The Phantom Lordz fed off that energy all evening.

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐞

The performance also carried additional significance for drummer Shaun Tobin.

The Castle Theatre marked his final performance with The Phantom Lordz before relocating to Florida, making the evening more than just another stop on the calendar. Behind the kit, Tobin powered the band through every song with precision and intensity, providing a fitting conclusion to his time with the group.

It wasn't treated as a farewell spectacle.

It didn't need to be.

Instead, Tobin did exactly what drummers do best. He sat behind the kit, delivered a powerful performance and left everything on the stage one last time alongside his bandmates.

𝐀 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝

One of the night's coolest moments came later during Cemetery Gatez's set.

When the Pantera tribute launched into "Walk," Brian Graham returned to the stage, joining Cemetery Gatez alongside several fans to help sing one of heavy metal's most recognizable anthems. It was a spontaneous display of camaraderie between the two bands and highlighted something often overlooked in the tribute scene: respect.

There was no competition.

Just musicians celebrating the music they love together.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬

The Phantom Lordz proved that honoring Metallica is about far more than wearing black shirts and playing familiar riffs. It's about capturing the power, precision and spirit that made Metallica one of the greatest metal bands of all time.

Their performance at The Castle Theatre accomplished exactly that.

For longtime Metallica fans, it was a trip back to the band's thrash roots. For anyone experiencing The Phantom Lordz for the first time, it was a reminder that some of the best live performances you'll find aren't always in arenas. Sometimes they're happening in historic theaters, in front of passionate fans, played by musicians who genuinely love the music they're performing.

𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝: The Phantom Lordz

𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞: The Castle Theatre

𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐛𝐲: Xplicit Impressions

More photos will be posted at Xplicit Impressions

09/01/2026

𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐍 𝐆𝐈𝐁𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐁𝐄𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐄 𝐑𝐎𝐂𝐊 '𝐍' 𝐑𝐎𝐋𝐋

𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝, 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐑𝐨𝐜𝐤

𝐁𝐲 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂. 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡 | 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞

There are concert venues that rely on massive arenas and big-city skylines to create a memorable experience. Then there's Gibson City, Illinois, where one August evening proved that all you really need is a great stage, legendary musicians, and thousands of fans ready to sing every word.

The 2026 GAH Summer Bash once again transformed downtown Gibson City into a destination for classic rock lovers. Year after year, the event continues to attract nationally recognized artists while maintaining the hometown atmosphere that makes it unique. This year's lineup of Nelson, Night Ranger, and Rick Springfield gave fans three unforgettable performances, each bringing its own style, energy, and connection with the audience.

𝐍𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐍𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐚

The evening began with Nelson, whose unmistakable harmonies instantly transported fans back to the early '90s. Matthew and Gunnar Nelson reminded everyone why songs like "(Can't Live Without Your) Love and Affection" remain staples for classic rock audiences. Their polished performance served as the perfect kickoff, warming up a crowd that was already eager for the night ahead.

From the first few songs, it was clear this wasn't just another concert. It was a celebration of the music that has become the soundtrack to so many lives.

𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲'𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞

If Nelson lit the fuse, Night Ranger set it off.

From the opening notes, the band's energy never let up. Every member seemed to be in constant motion, feeding off one another while thousands of fans answered with raised rock-and-roll horns and thunderous singalongs. Every chorus felt bigger than the last, turning downtown Gibson City into one giant voice.

One of the evening's most entertaining moments came during Kelly Keagy's drum solo. Rather than leaving him alone behind the kit, the rest of the band grabbed drumsticks and surrounded the drums, joining in to create one of Night Ranger's signature live moments. It's something longtime fans have come to expect, but seeing five accomplished musicians locked into one rhythmic performance never loses its impact.

The chemistry between the band members was impossible to miss. After more than four decades together, Night Ranger still performs with the enthusiasm of musicians who genuinely love sharing the stage. Whether tearing through hard-rock anthems or slowing things down for the emotional power of "Sister Christian," they had the Gibson City crowd singing at full volume from beginning to end.

𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐎𝐰𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭

When Rick Springfield walked onto the stage, the excitement immediately shifted into another gear.

At 77 years old, Springfield delivered a performance that defied every expectation attached to his age. He sprinted across the stage, leaped into the air, joked with the audience, and never looked like a performer trying to conserve energy. If anything, he seemed determined to outwork musicians half his age.

Then came one of the night's most unforgettable moments.

Springfield pulled out a bouquet of roses and began strumming his guitar with them, sending red rose petals flying into the air and across the front rows. The reaction was instant. Women near the stage erupted into cheers and screams as petals floated through the lights, creating one of those concert moments that simply can't be replicated in a recording.

Just a few feet away, one fan proudly held up a sign declaring she had skipped her wedding anniversary to attend the show. Judging by the laughter around her and Springfield's ability to captivate the audience, she probably wasn't regretting the decision.

As the night continued, the audience became as much a part of the performance as the band itself. Thousands of voices filled the streets as fans sang along to hit after hit, culminating with an explosive rendition of "Jessie's Girl." It was one of those rare moments where the crowd nearly overpowered the sound system, proving that some songs never lose their ability to unite generations of music fans.

𝐀 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐆𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫

Summer Bash has quietly grown into one of Central Illinois' premier live music events. Each year, Gibson Area Hospital brings nationally recognized artists to a community that embraces them with enthusiasm and hospitality, creating an experience that rivals festivals in much larger cities.

What makes Summer Bash special isn't simply the names on the marquee. It's the people.

Families spread out lawn chairs early in the day. Friends reunite over music they've loved for decades. First-time visitors quickly understand why so many fans make the trip back every summer. By the time the headliner takes the stage, strangers are singing together like lifelong friends.

That's something you can't manufacture.

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬.

As the final notes echoed through downtown Gibson City, fans slowly made their way toward the exits carrying more than just concert merchandise. They carried memories of rose petals floating through the air, Night Ranger's electrifying musicianship, Nelson's timeless harmonies, and thousands of voices joining together to celebrate the music that has stood the test of time.

For one summer night, Gibson City wasn't just another small Illinois town.

It became the center of the classic rock universe.

And if the smiles leaving the venue were any indication, Summer Bash once again proved why it's one of the Midwest's can't-miss concert experiences.

1st Opener: Nelson Band

2nd Opener: Night Ranger

Headliner: Rick Springfield

Venue: Summer Bash

Promoter: Grandstand Concerts

08/31/2026

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐑 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐒:
𝐉𝐔𝐌𝐏 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐘 𝐕𝐀𝐍 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍 𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐈𝐂 𝐓𝐎 𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐎𝐍

𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲: 𝐏𝐚𝐮𝐥 𝐓𝐮𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞

Under the warm glow of the Opera House Plaza lights in Canton, Illinois, the air was thick with mild summer heat and high-voltage anticipation. A few clouds hung low as showtime approached, with local radars projecting severe cells for 8:00 PM—a mere thirty minutes after start time. Yet, in a stroke of rock ’n’ roll luck, the weather split north, leaving the newly minted outdoor venue dry.
The host for the evening, the Canton History and Arts Alliance Opera House Plaza, has quietly become a standout central Illinois summer hub. Offering free admission with an optional donation, the venue delivers top-tier entertainment with zero friction. It is a pristine, accessible outdoor venue. The city went all-in for the event, closing down adjacent streets to accommodate local food trucks, a Jump merch tent, and an estimated crowd of 2,000 fans spanning three generations.
Unlike tributes that attempt to cover every era of the band's long history, JUMP focuses strictly on the David Lee Roth years—and they execute it with ruthless precision. You can feel the energy. Youthful, athletic, and entirely committed, the band recreates the explosive energy of the late 1970’s and early 1980’s shows.
From period accurate wardrobe and customized gear to Roth’s signature jumps and charisma, the attention to detail is sharp. The sound is amazing. Close your eyes and you will feel the music the way it was meant to be experienced.
Following a tension-building six-minute intro, JUMP: America’s Van Halen Experience ripped into "Unchained" and "Panama," instantly setting the tone for a two-hour marathon of classic David Lee Roth era Van Halen tunes.
They powered through a relentless hit list—including "Runnin’ With the Devil," "Hot For Teacher," "Everybody Wants Some!!," and "Jump"—before closing out the night with the traditional "Happy Trails”.
The band is comprised of Mike as David Lee Roth, Drew on bass, Cody on guitar, and just turned 21-year-old drummer Eric. Each of these musicians put on an authentic show with a little of their own personalities mixed in.
After the final chords faded, the band stuck around for about a half hour, taking photos with fans, signing set lists, clothing, and pretty much anything else you wanted signed. Unlike an 80’s Van Halen concert, this show remained a family friendly event and all the women’s shirts did manage to stay on. They tossed guitar picks throughout the night sending several young fans scrambling to grab them.
JUMP proved once again why loyal fans are willing to drive more than an hour just to catch their set!

𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫: JUMP - America’s Van Halen Experience

𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞: Opera House Plaza

𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐛𝐲: Paul Tuttle

08/31/2026

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐬
𝐁𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅𝐅 𝐆𝐎𝐍𝐄 & 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐑𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐍𝐎𝐖!

𝐁𝐲: 𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐧 -𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐞

August 16th, 2026, was the second time seeing The Alabama Heathens live! These guys opened for Them Dirty Roses in Oxford Alabama at Hooligan Harley Davidson. This was an outside show, and the temperature was as hot as the band!

The dealership is located at 231 Davis Loop, Oxford AL.36203 Check out their website for more upcoming shows @ https://hooliganhd.com

Now…. Let’s get to the band THE ALABAMA HEATHENS!!!!

These boys are a killer southern rock band out of Huntsville AL. that have a high octane true SLOBBEER KNOCKER live performance, one that will leave you wanting more. They are one of the most sought-after bands in North Alabama, and they are building their fan base all over the Midwest and Southeast.

The show started at 6:30pm and it was hot with lead singer Dylan Johnson on rhythm guitar, Brother Jude Roberts on lead guitar, William O’ rear on bass guitar and Tim Humlicek laying down the beats on drums.

The band lead off with their newest single BETTER OFF GONE which was released on all music platforms August 25th, 2026, and followed with more originals like Walk a Mile, the bluesy Throw a Dog a Bone, 99 Miles, a couple of covers Eminence Front and Whole Lotta Love, their southern rock hit Here for The Wh***ey and closing out with Deadman’s Cowboy Boots. Folks I do have to say out of the two covers Eminence Front by The Who stands out the most to me & (The Boys Nailed It)! The reaction from the fans was well received and trust me I’m a fan and you will be as well because these guys are awesome!

Check out The Alabama Heathens on Facebook and Instagram. You can find their Show Announcements and Merchandise on their Web Page ://www.alabamaheathens.com. Be sure you go get their newest single Better Off Gone on all music outlets, recorded at
Clearwave Studios in Decatur AL.

Photos: T. Dean Images

08/26/2026

𝐀 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐆𝐮𝐧, 𝐀 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧

𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲: 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡

Concerts are meant to be a place where fans and artists share an unforgettable experience. While the atmosphere is often energetic and interactive, there is a line that should never be crossed. A recent incident involving Danny Case of From Ashes to New serves as a reminder that what appears to be a harmless prank can quickly become a serious security concern.

During a recent performance, a fan repeatedly sprayed Danny Case with a water gun despite reportedly being warned to stop. The behavior continued until Danny halted the performance and confronted the individual. Other members of the band also became involved as the situation unfolded, bringing an abrupt end to what should have been another memorable night of live music.

Videos circulating online have sparked debate about Danny's reaction. Some viewers questioned whether the confrontation was excessive. Others argued that his response was entirely justified. Looking beyond the emotional reactions, however, reveals a much larger issue: venue security.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The question isn't whether the object contained water.

The question is how security could possibly know what it contained.

A water gun is simply a container capable of spraying liquid at another person. Unless security personnel physically test its contents, there is no way to determine whether it contains water, alcohol, urine, cleaning chemicals, pepper solution, or another potentially harmful substance.

In today's environment, performers face increasing security concerns. Artists routinely encounter thrown objects, physical altercations, and individuals attempting to rush the stage. Every object that enters a venue has the potential to become a distraction or, worse, a weapon.

Allowing a sq**rt gun into a concert creates an unnecessary risk that could have been prevented before the doors even opened.

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞

Even if the water gun somehow made it through initial screening, another question remains.

Why wasn't the fan removed after the first warning?

Most venues employ security personnel at the barricade specifically to monitor interactions between performers and the audience. When an individual repeatedly disrupts a performance after being warned, swift intervention protects not only the artist but every fan who came to enjoy the show.

Instead, Danny Case was forced into a situation where he had to defend both himself and the integrity of the performance.

No artist should have to choose between continuing a show while being assaulted with an unknown substance or stopping the performance to address the problem personally.

𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐝

Whether someone agrees with every aspect of Danny's response is almost beside the point.

Artists deserve a safe working environment.

Fans purchase tickets to enjoy live music, not to become part of the show by harassing the people on stage. Respect is a two-way street. Bands pour countless hours into writing music, rehearsing, traveling, and performing. The least they should expect is the ability to perform without being intentionally targeted.

Reports indicate that the individual had already been told to stop before continuing the behavior. At that point, responsibility shifts from the performer to venue security.

𝐀 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐞

This incident should serve as a wake-up call for concert venues and promoters everywhere.

Security protocols should include:

Prohibiting toy water guns, sq**rt guns, and similar liquid-dispensing devices.
Thorough bag inspections before entry.
Immediate removal of patrons who intentionally interfere with performers after a warning.
Maintaining visible, attentive security personnel at the barricade throughout every performance.

The overwhelming majority of concertgoers attend shows to sing along, make memories, and support the artists they love. They should never have their experience disrupted because one individual refused to respect basic boundaries.

The conversation surrounding this incident shouldn't focus solely on Danny Case's reaction.

It should focus on why he was put in that position in the first place.

Because when security fails, the burden often falls on the very people who came to entertain us.

𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: This article is based on publicly available videos and eyewitness accounts shared following the incident. As additional verified information becomes available, Smokin Strings Magazine will continue to provide updates if and when possible.

𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 Danny Case

From Ashes to New

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1F41abJkpd/

08/25/2026

𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐜. 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝: 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐧

𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲: 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡

The world is mourning the loss of one of the most beloved entertainers in history. Dolly Parton passed away on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that stretched far beyond country music.

Born on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, Dolly Rebecca Parton rose from humble beginnings in the Smoky Mountains to become one of the most recognizable and respected figures in entertainment. Her unmistakable voice, heartfelt songwriting, larger-than-life personality, and unwavering generosity earned her fans across every generation.

During a career spanning more than six decades, Parton wrote and recorded timeless classics including "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," "9 to 5," and "I Will Always Love You." Her songwriting touched millions, while her influence extended into film, television, Broadway, and literature. She sold well over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Her list of accomplishments is nothing short of extraordinary. Dolly earned 11 Grammy Awards, received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, was inducted into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, received the Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, and was honored with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her lifelong charitable work.

Yet perhaps her greatest achievement wasn't measured in awards. Through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, she inspired a love of reading by providing millions of free books to children around the world. Her generosity, compassion, and commitment to helping others became as legendary as her music.

Dolly Parton possessed a rare ability to unite people. Whether you were a lifelong country music fan, a rock fan, or someone who simply admired her infectious smile and quick wit, she made everyone feel welcome. Her authenticity never wavered, and her kindness became as iconic as the rhinestones she proudly wore.

As tributes continue pouring in from musicians, actors, world leaders, and countless fans, one thing is abundantly clear: Dolly Parton wasn't simply a superstar. She was a once-in-a-generation talent whose music, philanthropy, humor, and heart changed the world for the better.

She leaves behind an enduring catalog of unforgettable songs, countless lives touched through her charitable work, and a legacy that will continue inspiring generations to come.

Rest in peace, Dolly Parton.

January 19, 1946 - August 25, 2026

"The world may have lost a legend, but her music, kindness, and light will never fade."