ION INDIE MAGAZINE August 2014, Volume 3 | Page 15

Music by TRICUS “Strong”

Tempe Center for the Arts
Story by Kiki Plesha/Photography by J.B. Bridges
ION Indie Magazine on hand for the EPIC MUSIC
STORE “Anniversary Show” on Saturday, June 14,
2014. The gorgeous TEMPE CENTER FOR THE ARTS
served as an exquisite backdrop for this electric and
“epically” entertaining evening of some of the finest
Rock/Metal bands from the Phoenix area and
surrounding communities. Our friends, store
owners GEORGE CONTRERAS and LORRAINE KEITH
were our gracious hosts and emcees for this
exhilarating event. After a warm greeting and words
of gratitude from George and Lorraine and some
history on Epic Music Store and its evolution…the
stage was lit and the party kicked into full throttle!
The night’s lineup was an impressive one—on the roster were DEATH AWAITS, JERRY ROBISON PROJECT,
TRICUS and ST. MADNESS (June 2014 Issue/ION Indie Magazine). First up was Death Awaits—slinking out
of Avondale, Arizona. This is a high-energy and aggressively animated Death Metal group that is equally
pleasurable to listen to and WATCH. They had a playfulness about them that was meshed with mosh-worthy
lyrics; melded with great musicianship. DA’s vocalist/guitarist GABE VASQUEZ was a memorable figure—
both in stature and vocal abilities. Besides having a running banter with the audience, he made great use of
the stage! Along with Vasquez, Death Awaits is: Andy Lister (Guitar), Brian Imberi (Bass) and Salvador
Barragan (Drums). They will remain a group for ION to have their eyes on! http://www.deathawaits.co