Two Tenney-Lapham residents, Kristy Larson and Rich Larson (no relation), are members of The Dang-its along with Tom Waselchuk, Ken Heim, and Rick Nass. Kristy and Tom handle most vocalsÉKristy plays rhythm guitar; Tom, lead guitar; Rick, pedal steel guitar; and Ken is on bass with Rich playing the drums.
Jean Dunn (who ÔplaysÕ library books at Lapham Elementary for her day job) recently discussed this musical endeavor with Kristy.
Jean: So, Kristy, how would you describe The Dang-its music?
Kristy: Well, itÕs not simple to doÉTom, who Ôruns the showÕ, has been calling us ÔAmericana/CountryÕ or sometimes ÔAlternative CountryÕ. My heart says ÔcountryÕ but we really donÕt do any top 40 country and that makes it confusing for some people. Our choices in this band are really a classic sound, either contemporary writersÕ work with a classic feel, or classic country works themselves such as Robbie Fulks, Monica Passin or Patsy Cline and Buck Owens. We also play some original songs by Tom or other local artists.
Jean: What can people expect when they come to a Dang-its gig?
Kristy: I think we always offer people a heck of a good time. People have come to gigs who arenÕt usually attracted to country music and have been impressed with the level of playing and the energy and intensity of the music. I really love this music and I try to bring that through in my performances.
Jean: Well, I was reading through your promo and it says "Kristy moves effortlessly from the sassy twang of a jumping rockabilly number to the sultry cry of a Patsy Cline heartbreaker." That says it for me!
Kristy: Oh Jean, you are one of my dearest fans and friends and I guess thatÕs why I wanted you to write this article with me. Heck, I just asked how I could run the band schedule in the neighborhood newsletter and Bob Shaw, the TLNA editor, said we should write a whole article about The Dang-its.
Jean: There is quite a neighborhood following for you guys and itÕs a fun way for groups of neighbors and friends to get together and stay up way too late! So, the next time ÔIÕm down to my last cigaretteÕ, ÔIÕve got leavinÕ on my mindÕ and IÕm feeling ÔCrazyÕ, where can I see you next?
Kristy: HereÕs our current schedule which includes The Dang-its band gigs and some ÔduoÕdates with Tom at FyfeÕs, right here in our neighborhood.
May 21 & 22 Country Corners 9-1 Great dance floor!
June 15 ÔOn the SquareÕ @ King St. 12-1 (picnic!)
June 18 & 19 Country Corners 9-1 (classic Honky Tonk!)
June 28 Warner Park 6:30-7:30 (summer evening!)
July 23 Brown County Fair 7-11 (Depere, WI Road Trip)
July 28 Edgerton7-9 Community Concert in the Park
August 7 ÔOn the Square at King St. 9:30-11:00 (FarmersÕ Market)
May 13 6-8:30 (MarkÕs Birthday)
May 28 6-8:30
June 11 6-8:30
June 17 6-8:30
For further information call Tom Waselchuk (271-7827) or twasel@globaldialog.com or Kristy Larson (255-4427).
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