Issue date: 11/20/08 Section: Scene

Media Credit: Kim Acheson

"United in your focus, there still comes a day, where you must test out the waters, on your own, the waves are swaying…"

For Eau Claire band, "Meridene," these are not just the opening lyrics to their newest album, You're Not Pretty You're Worse, they are a metaphor for where the band remains today.

The official release date of the album is Nov. 25, but fans will have a chance to purchase copies early at two CD release shows this weekend.

First, "Meridene" will be performing at 9 p.m. on Friday at the House of Rock, 422 Water St., opening for Minneapolis band "Halloween, Alaska." Lead singer Trevor Carl Ives feels this 21-plus show will draw a big audience.

"The 'Halloween, Alaska' show is one we are very excited about," Ives said. "They draw a great crowd in and of themselves. Attendance is essentially mandatory."

The second show will be at 7 p.m. on Saturday at The Grand Little Theater, 102 West Grand Ave. This is an all ages show.

Admission to both shows is $5.

UW-Eau Claire music major and junior Andy Detra is excited about both shows.

"I will be there," Detra said. "I love their country rhythms with pop punk attitude. It keeps me coming back for more."

You're Not Pretty You're Worse showcases a new line-up of band members than those who played on last year's release, A Very Strange Bear. In fact, Ives is the only original member.

The new "Meridene" features three sophomore Eau Claire Jazz Ensemble I members, drummer Dave Power, pianist Paul Brandt and bassist Shane McLaughlin. Eric Rykal rounds out the band on guitar.

Ives feels the new lineup of the band makes song writing a very democratic process.

"With the guys we have now the finished track is always changed and improved from what I thought initially," Ives said.

Former "Meridene" member and senior Andy Plank agrees.

"They definitely took a 360 turn for the better," Plank said. "The songwriting is stronger by leaps and bounds, and the new style fits really well."

"Meridene's" press release describes the change as well.

The release states: "The band's sound has morphed on its most recent effort, from its late and familiar banjo-toting-alt-country to its current blend of sportive, yet hard hitting at times, indie/rock power pop."

Continued...

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