If you love finding niche bands with passion, originality and personality then you definitely need to check out Riverhead.
Collapsing to the floor after a heartfelt rendition of his fans’ favorite “Something good is happening to me,” lead vocalist Kevin Galbraith showed true grit, performing through the nasty flu that is hitting all around town and campus. If what I heard from this sleeper band was done ill then I look forward to a healthy show.
They definitely got this chick’s body swaying, along with the crowds, packing people into the usually laid back atmosphere of the Woodshed (68 East 800 South). The band romped while the bar staff scrambled to keep up with the rise in drink demand. According to Lee, the owner of the Woodshed, the club is normally relaxed – but not on the night Riverhead was there.
Along with Kevin, other band members include guitarists Chase Terry and Mike Burgess (he sings too!) and drummer Troy Anderson.
When asked what it would mean to “make it” for the band, there was a pause; at this point they really love where they are at. They “do it for the love of it,” according to Kevin. They get to make the music they want for themselves and their fans without the worry of a record label.
Riverhead has its own unique sound and although they are definitely Depeche Mode-like, they hesitate to even name a band as their inspiration. The band maintains close ties with their friends and fans. There are no fancy costumes separating Riverhead, they let the lyrics and the music deliver their message – and it works.
The fact that Kevin trades in his technical analytics day job at the U of U, and collaborates with the other band members to write and record his all original playlist, creates a truly one-of-a-kind harmony – in both the music and in the band. Riverhead has been together for 12 years and boasts all original members. One fan says she likes their music “because it is mostly upbeat and positive.”
Check with the Woodshed to see when they play next or “like” their Facebook page for updated schedules.