S’mores Across America Tour

            Virtual Campfire kicked off their 2012 summer tour “S’mores Across America” with their first non-California performance in Portland, Oregon at the Jade Lounge.  They filled the house, the only problem is at possibly Portland’s smallest venue they filled the house when they took the stage.  Despite some cramped staging and some initial confusion caused by the limits of the performance space, Virtual Campfire got off to a great start with a rollicking and fun set.

            Besides doing some of the best songs from their first album, they also played music from earlier incarnations – the band Sauce and two musical shows, Jesus’ Kid Brother and One Dakota.  The small but appreciative audience had a great time and everybody was laughing and singing along by the time they closed with their hit song Life.

            Besides the Karmelich Brothers (Brian, Mark and Ben – guitars, mandolin, harmonica, violin and accordion) plus Steve Goldstein (12 string guitar) and Chris Newton (bass), who all appeared on the album – Burning Hot Tonight – the band was filled out with Jim Hudson (conga drums and general madness) from Sauce and Jeff (sorry I couldn’t read your last name, Jeff), the newest member of the band who is a talented percussionist – he played the cajon a wooden box played as a percussion instrument.  The result was that they rocked the roof off the joint.  In fact the bartender had to keep telling them to turn it down, which added some real authenticity to their garage band feel.

            “At our age we’re not looking to get rich or become huge rock stars,” says Steve Goldstein, “We’re out to have fun.” Mission accomplished, gentlemen.  It was one of the more enjoyable times I have had recently and I will be glad to see them any time.  Here is a link to the rest of the dates on the tour – if you’re anywhere nearby it is worth it to hear this enjoyable band.