We are rolling into 2012 with two big shows this weekend.

First and foremost, we are pumped to have 2011 Sweetwater Showdown champions Eyes Of Torment playing Saturday night… their first Sweetwater show since taking the title in November. Joining them are metal brethren (and two-year Showdown finalist) Subdivisions, plus newcomers Acruce Mortem. Oh yeah, and it’s both mine and Noodles’ (a la Subdivisions) Brutal Birthday Throwdown.

Friday night will be rocking with good friends Drew Kohl and Woody Robbins as their bluegrass/folk/country act The Four Thieves debut a brand-new CD, accompanied by Americana and folk-inspired band Young America.  Finishing the night is a special stripped down set from Six To The Wheels.

Thanks for your continued support… let’s make this a year to remember! [Insert apocalypse quip here]

We have some extra-sweet local rock shows this weekend, starting with Friday’s lineup featuring former Hottboxx guitarist Dossman’s Symphony Of Insanity and opener Courtesy Of Frank.  Saturday night, we bring in the New Year with 2011 Sweetwater Showdown finalist and headliner Third Candle alongside Poynte and The Aeon Flow for an evening of alternative and progressive modern rock.  Thanks for making this year a huge success for Sweetwater, and keep supporting the Atlanta scene!

Jesse Busch
Subtle Hammer Productions

This Saturday is the much-anticipated return of 2010 Sweetwater Showdown champions Wake Of The Titan, along with 2011 Showdown semi-finalists Kick The Robot and From Where I’m Standing.  If you haven’t seen them before, make time, because they are representing the Atlanta scene well!  Friday night’s show pairs stellar blues acts Velvet City Mercy and Red Velvet Mojo with the soulful sounds of Big Momma’s Cooking.  You can’t go wrong either night!

Taymin Rainey, host of our Thursday Open Mic Night, has just announced the lineup of our first-ever Open Mic Showcase, featuring Taymin, acoustic artist Chris Patton, hard-rocking DeadLift, and blues outfit The 8th Ocean.  Mark your calendar for Friday, January 13th, 2012 and get a peek at some talented local flavors.

Jesse Busch
Subtle Hammer Productions

Let’s start off by congratulating EYES OF TORMENTfor a hard-earned victory in the final night of our tenth annual Sweetwater Showdown.  In front of a packed house of nearly 300 people, they edged out Subdivisions and THIRD CANDLE to claim the 2011 title.  All three bands brought great energy and vibes, and the fans were intrigued throughout the show.  Thanks to everybody for your support of both Sweetwater and the local scene.

This Friday, join us as hard rock veterans Dead Horse Hollow and Floored return to tear it up, with a short stand-up set in between from national comdeian Tim Murray.  Should be an entertaining evening!  Saturday comes at you with three modern rock marvels. Progressive The Aeon Flow debuts their new rhythm section, Poynte brings their polished sound once again, and 2010 Sweetwater Showdown finalist ChloesHouse closes the night off right.

Come out to Mr. Smokey’s Karaoke Tuesday and Wednesday night for $1.50 domestic draft mugs all night long until the end of the year; just mention that you saw it online and it will be so.

Until next time.

Jesse Busch
Subtle Hammer Productions