Grooving at the Grove: Antigone Rising

If you're bored in Los Angeles, just step outside. You'll find excitement when you least expect it. That's why we love this city.

Case in point: last night we were content to "take it easy." That translated to a quick bite at the Farmer's Market before watching Rockstar INXS at home. Lost in our thoughts (and a tasty falafel), we suddenly heard the distant clamoring of percussion and guitars. A slave to the music--and our readers, of course--we scarfed down the remainder of our dinner and made a beeline for The Grove.

LAist was pleasantly surprised to find a mini concert underway. The fresh-faced Kyle Riabko was busy wooing an appreciative crowd. He was charismatic, in excellent voice and LAist wished we'd seen his entire set. But alas, we only caught the final number. Thankfully, Riabko was the warm-up act for another band,the bluegrass-tinged Antigone Rising. (For those curious about the correct pronunciation, it's an-TI-go-knee, not ANTI-gone).

These up-and-comers got their big break on a Starbucks exclusive CD titled From The Ground Up. You can also sample their sounds on the iTunes EP Don't Look Back. To save you the trouble and the money, we also taped two short clips for your sampling pleasure.

The 30-minute set list was energetic and inspired. Antigone's sound is a cross between the Dixie Chicks, Pat Benatar and Sheryl Crow. Cassidy, the lead vocalist, sang with fervor. So much so, that her voice was a bit strained by the end of the set. But we can't fault her for belting it out like a pro. This was a free concert, after all, and a good one at that. Guitarists Cathy and Kristen Henderson also chimed in on 3-part harmonies, smoothing out the vocals. Bassist Dena Tauriello and percussionist Jen Zielenbach both rounded out the band, giving Antigone Rising a sound that invoked grunge, pop and country.

Would we pay to see Antigone? Definitely. The ladies had spunk and were generous performers. More importantly, we'd recommend that all our readers check out at least one of the remaining Grove Summer Concerts. The info is posted below. So grab a falafel and a good seat. The best things in L.A. are actually free.

The Grove Summer Concert Series Schedule
August 17: Scott Grimes & Josh Kelly
August 24: Trevor Hall & Anna Nalick
August 31: Tony Orlando & Dawn

Address:
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Admission is free