Local Music Lover's Dream: Sylmar, In the Pines, and Spooky Dreamland at Top Cats

A local music lover’s dream is coming to the returning Cincinnati venue, Top Cats, this Saturday. Sylmar is hosting a double single release party with In the Pines and Spooky Dreamland.

Headlining, of course, is the Cincy-based, stoner-jazz-rock ensemble, Sylmar. The quintet is comprised of Brian McCullough (vocals); Chase Watkins (bass); CJ Eliasen (drums); Dan Sutter (guitar); and Luke Glaser (guitar). The two new singles releasing this weekend will be the band’s first new releases since its debut album back in June 2017. Notably, Sylmar was nominated for the Best Indie/Alternative Category in the 2017 Cincinnati Music Awards. Brian’s vocals will shake you to your core and the melodic guitars will leave you in a trance. The band’s shows are high-energy and both of your feet will never be on the floor.

Just before Sylmar, you’ll see the psychedelic and R&B stylings of In the Pines. This local band formed in 2015 and consists of Charlie Horn (guitar); Michael Shular (guitar/vocals); Alex Dungan (drums); Patrick Zopuff (bass/vocals); and Graham Holthaus (alto saxophone). In the Pines released its debut record, Mirror of Evolution, in 2017 and released its latest single “Lotus Sofa” less than a month ago, at the time of writing. One of the things that really sets In the Pines apart is its use of the alto saxophone, adding a jazzy feel to some of their already unique tunes.

Finally, opening the show is none other than Spooky Dreamland; a dreamy indie-psych-garage rock band. The four-piece is Clarke Miller (guitar, vocals); Connor Smith (guitar); Jack Tellmann (drums); and Alex Main (bass, vocals). A unique blend of genres makes this band’s sound unlike any other. Crunchy guitar melodies and smooth vocals will have your head nodding and your hips swaying. Spooky’s most recent release is 2016’s Extravaganza, but the band also created a limited release live tape it sold at shows earlier this year. Spooky Dreamland has frequented venues around the city like Urban Artifact and Northside Yacht Club, as well as Bearcast Media’s Live on Short Vine music festival.

The doors open at 8 p.m. on Saturday, November 10th. The show does cost $10, but you better believe it’ll be the best $10 you spend this week. So, if you’re 18 or older and looking for a night of great tunes, Top Cats is the place to be.

When: November 10, 8 p.m.

Where: Top Cats

How Much: $10

Win Tickets: https://www.inhailer.com/events/ticket-giveaway-sylmar-doubles-release-at-top-cats