Diverse Emerging Music Organization (DEMO) (http://www.demomn.org) has immediate volunteer and intern opportunities for music lovers of all ages who want to hear new, original music.

DEMO is primarily looking for show facilitators who can help run music events. Other volunteer needs include assisting with marketing opportunities and/or joining the board as an active voting member to guide the organization in the continued enhancement of the local music scene. Volunteering with DEMO is a great way to meet other local music lovers of all ages. It is also a great way for artists to network with each other.

A bit about the organization:

Diverse Emerging Music Organization (DEMO) is a ten-year-old grass roots non-profit organization started by former First Avenue general manager Steve McClellan. Our organization strives to help the rising stars of the Twin Cities music scene. Our methods involve helping young artists develop their stage presence through regular showcases. DEMO nurtures their creativity through networking opportunities with veteran musicians. We assist new artists with marketing strategies to lead to better promotion of their music. Regular showcases currently happen at Acadia Cafe in Minneapolis and Wild Tymes in St Paul. We also produce single shows at several venues such as The Cedar Cultural Center, The Varsity, 7th Street Entry, Amsterdam Bar, and others.

DEMO believes that the most inspired music happens right in our own backyards. We share a passion for continued development of a rich local music scene. Our board consists of musicians and community members who enjoy local music. Board members and volunteers have the opportunity to enjoy dozens of diverse local bands within the genres of rock, pop, jazz, ska, punk, metal, hip hop, and more at DEMO shows and throughout the local music scene. For any DEMO board member or volunteer, there are occasions to request complimentary tickets to shows happening within the Twin Cities.

DEMO faces challenges that require commitment, networking skills, management expertise, technical skills and hands-on action. We are seeking to grow our organization with people of all ages and experience levels who appreciate a grass roots approach. While many of our board members and volunteers already play active roles in the areas of education development, marketing, fund raising, and volunteer coordinating, we welcome the experience and enthusiasm you (or someone you know) may bring in these or other areas.

Check out http://www.demomn.org or email demomn612@gmail.com for more information or to learn about opportunities and upcoming board meetings.

Diverse Emerging Music Organization is proud to host a very special benefit for Midway Training Services (MTS) at the Palace Stage at Wild Tymes on Saturday, September 22.

MTS is a local non-profit organization that believes in the advancement of the career and life goals of people with disabilities. There will be raffle prizes available and donations will be collected throughout the night.

MTS supports people with disabilities in their desire to be active, contributing and productive members of our communities by providing individualized, inclusive services that meet their career needs.

The local bands that make-up the bill for this event are also Midway Training Service employees. They include Keith Johnson, Smilin' Cowboys, Salamander Army, and Dawn of Valor. These artists' dedication to the mission of MTS have encouraged them to organize this benefit as a way to give back to the communities that support them.

Recently added to the bill is The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass, currently on US tour from Japan.

The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass attracted attention at this year's SXSW festival in Austin.

This powerful trio of Japanese women return to the USA for a late summer/fall tour to release their music to a broader base of fans. The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass music is best described as bluesy-punk. They cite Social Distortion, Link Wray, and X as some of their influences.

Critics have called their stage presence dark and brooding, yet to anyone watching the band, it is clear that they are enjoying their time on stage. They are talented young women, playing together since 2005. Digitalgig.co.uk has described their sound as raw and melodic, a hint of British rock with a punk-edged persona.

The Akabane Vulgars on Strong Bypass are rising music stars. Once they have released their music across the country, they will definitely be back to fill larger venues. 

Music will begin at 8pm. The Wild Tymes is located at 33 W 7th Place, St Paul, MN. There is no cover, free will donations will be collected.

Art Vandalay is an Americana folk-rock band that tastefully combines roots and indie-rock with laid-back country folk.  Described by the Duluth News Tribune as "impossibly catchy" Art Vandalay brings forth a captivating live show that is nothing but a good time.
Art Vandalay was formed like everyone puts on their pants, one leg at a time. What started out as an alter ego for songwriter Brandon Henry has become a full-fledged band and breath of fresh air in the Twin Cities’ Americana/roots-rock scene. Combining the crisp jazz rhythms of drummer Calvin Keasling with keyboard wizard Ben Cook-Feltz’s Bentmont Tench-like piano licks and layered harmonies make Art Vandalay’s music “impossibly catchy” (Duluth News-Tribune).

In 2009, Art Vandalay released their debut EP, Dancin’ With Your Demons to critical acclaim. The seven songs on this mini-album rode a fine line between “dusty roads and hipster pads” (Duluth News-Tribune) and drew comparisons to everyone from Neil Young, The Byrds to the Lovin’ Spoonful. Featuring the song “If You Love Me” penned as a tribute to Rockmount pearl snap shirts, Dancin’ With Your Demons was a quiet success.