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When a band’s been a band for 42 years, writing and recording 25 albums’ worth of material, it’s fair to wonder if fans are going to catch the new stuff in live settings, or the old stuff, or bits of treasure from every era. For fans of Australia’s The Church, appearing in Salt Lake for a Saturday night show at The Commonwealth Room, here’s a message: rest easy tonight, you’re about to hear it all.
“We were talking about what we are going to play while having breakfast today,” founder Steve Kilbey said by phone earlier this week. “Looking at the setlist, it’s a fairly extensive thing, going right from the beginning to three tracks from the new album. I thought it was a pretty good representation and I think people should like it.”
With Kilbey now the only member of the band dating back to its early ‘80s incarnation, the band he’s surrounded himself with for this tour is “an all-star group” of contemporaries, players that he’s gigged with for years, for the most part. When reached this week, the group was Los Angeles for a round of rehearsals, just prior to their touring work on the west coast. Some warm-up dates in Australia preceded those.
“I’ll tell you what,” Kilbey says. “I’m really excited… well, excited is the wrong word to use. But I’m really looking forward to this. We did a couple of pre-shows in Sydney and the band is really locked-in during our rehearsals. We have a good bunch. I don’t think it used to matter to me as much, but we’ve got really excellent musicians who the render these songs quite flawlessly. Some of the songs on the new album are quite complex and I’m proud of the band in how they’re handling these complexities. If you like cerebral—but loud and walloping—music, I think we’re really delivering that at the moment.”
A few years back, when touring on a package with the Psychedelic Furs—a time when original guitarist Peter Koppes was in the fold—the band certainly brought the goods. True fans were treated to some deep cuts, though sharing a stage with another major band birthed in the ’80s meant trimming their set list back a bit, which served to emphasize hits like “Under the Milky Way” and “Reptile,” both played with skill and enthusiasm. And the latter’s not always easy to do, bands asked to perform songs that have decades on them, no matter how brilliant those tracks were (and are.) For this weekend’s show, there’s no opener, just music from The Church from start to finish.
So the deeper cuts have a chance to shine on this tour. And, luckily, Kilbey’s never stopped writing, collaborating with familiar musicians, all while incorporating new techniques. Such as the digital trading that was done on the latest round of recordings, the various players trading tracks from their home-based, professionally-outfitted studios.
We noted up top that the band’s 25th album is due later this year, and that’s true. Unfortunately, the album won’t be fully available until later in 2022. The good problem is that 19 tracks were recorded during those Australia/US recording sessions and Kilbey feels that all of that material’s worth release; so a second album could emerge from just those sessions.
But as a performer who’s released music as a solo artist and with short-run duos and other standalone projects, there’s always been the chance that more Kilbey-centered music is just around the corner.
“There’re always new things happening, all the time,” Kilbey says. “Can’t stop now.”
And seeing them live? Kilbey’s got an idea on that, too.
“It’s a great night,” he suggests, “to smoke a joint and listen to some rock’n’roll that had a lot of thought put into it. Thought and consideration.”
The Church play The Commonwealth Room on Saturday, May 7 at 8 p.m. This is a 21-up show, with $40 tickets; added info’s available at thestateroompresents.com.
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In moving to SLC, my first music club experience came via The Urban Lounge. Not that I actually went in, mind you. Instead, the venue sat just down the street from Dick N Dixies, a bar where I found kinship through a weekly Monday evening gathering that brought together writers along with folks who’d want to talk to writers. The Urban was a curiosity for a month or more, the names of the headlining acts coming-and-going from that small marquee above the front door. “What was inside?,” I wondered.
Took a minute, but I finally made it through the door and found myself in a positively-excellent small-to-mid-sized music club. Nice stage, good sound, decent selection of local beer. And the real winner? To be honest, that’d be the men’s room, a functional space that not only serves its role, it approximates the joys of being inside an Airstream or country motel room. Photos show a well-appointed women’s room, as well, with stellar animal-based wallpaper. Well done, bathroom designer, you done good!
Those appeals aside, shows are what’ll keep you coming back. And over the past week-and-change, a trio of gigs brought me through those doors in Central City.
Destroyer with Rosali, April 26
Sometimes a new artist cuts through the clutter and asks for added attention. Rosali’s a songwriter, guitarist and vocalist heading up a self-named band. Taken by the sound of Rosali’s 2021 album No Medium, I headed into the venue as much to see her band as the evening’s headliner, Destroyer, an act with a nice, long history. The room was relatively sparse for Rosali’s set—people seemed to have their opening act antennae up and were smoking or making their way to the venue as she and her talented backing band worked through a set of pleasing indie pop/rock.
Destroyer, then, walked onstage with good vibes already in the room and the crowd reciprocated. In this case, that meant rapt attention. When songs ended, vocalist and bandleader Dan Bejar spent more time sipping at his Modelo than in engaging the room, but the folks were there for the band. Had actual pins dropped between the songs, we’d have all heard them. As a sign of respect, it was pretty profound.
Destroyer employ a mid-tempo sound, with some instrumentation swapping and a big wall of sound, supplied by Bejar’s six associates, a group that’s seen a fair amount of arrivals and subtractions over the years. Trumpeter JP Carter frequently stole the show, his heavily processed and looped horn the band’s not-so-secret weapon. They had the crowd in the palm of their hand, and it’s always impressive to see, hear, witness, experience a band in that element. This was a band and audience in lockstep.
First Daze with Elowyn and Daytime Lover, April 28
Speaking of audiences…does a quiet, respectful audience necessarily equate a good audience? Or can a boisterous, lively room give just the same love back to a performer? Let’s investigate!
On an evening in which three of SLC’s bright young indie rock acts were sharing a stage, First Daze drew the headlining slot, having released a self-titled album on streaming services that morning. The crowd built steadily as the acts moved through the evening, growing by half with each of the sets from Elowyn and Daytime Lover (who, themselves, released a nice album called I Was Asleep earlier this spring.) The mood was a good one and the phrase “release party” had a heavy emphasis on the latter word once the three-piece First Daze hit the stage.
Dual lead vocalists/acoustic guitarists Taylor Lines and Gui Peláez have created a solid, introspective, thoughtful sound, one that bumps up a bit against their self-titled mission of “makin’ music takin’ names.” If their music and words require a bit of quiet for max effect, the audience wasn’t feeling that, chatting at high volume from the opening cut, be that on the dance floor, near the bar or on the perimeter of the room. To be honest, as someone who was experiencing the group for a first time, it was…a challenge. But it appeared that the band’s friends, who came in out in force, were having a time.
The First Daze had their moment, they chatted and danced and laughed their way through a show that maybe called for a bit of active listening. They won. But there’s always the record, which can be enjoyed anytime, in as quiet an environment as you’d like.
Pink Mountaintops with Ashley Shadow and Beneath the Sparrows, May 2
We come to discuss a local band here, one that was an unlisted part of this three-band lineup. But not without noting that the headliner, Pink Mountaintops, makes the kind of a droning-yet-tuneful noise that’s reminiscent of The Dream Syndicate and similar ‘80s/‘90s kin. And we’ll say that Ashley Shadow, playing on this bill as a two-piece, creates the kind of slow, slightly-spooky rock that calls out a night around the fire pit on a chilled October evening—lovely, just lovely.
But it was the night’s first act, the SLC group Beneath the Sparrows that provides our vignette here. Drummer Noah Taub, back in the fold for this gig, provided a solid foundation and vocalist/guitarist Dave Crespo was an engaging frontman, at one point calling his band’s appearance the equivalent of getting some unexpected mozzarella sticks before a meal. Funny guy!
But our shout-out today goes to bassist Jordan Jaeger. When the band began, there weren’t a dozen souls in the Urban and three of them left within a couple of songs. Though a few more would eventually trail in, the band’s audience never topped 20 for this Monday night opening gig, though Jaeger was playing as if in front of a crowd of 2,000. He bobbed, he weaved, he bent, he laughed, he grimaced, he put on a show. He perfectly fits the role needed for his band’s muscular, straight-forward rock’n’roll and, on this night, earned his stripes. He was worth every penny.
241 S. 500 East, SLC
On Thursday, May 5, The Urban Lounge hosts Musor, Slow Malone and Roy and the Robbers. Doors are at 7. See you there for yet another new vibe. Read more about arts and music in SLC.
It didn’t take long to process the changes from the customer side, subtle though they may’ve been. Only a few days removed from a DABC monthly meeting that changed the taproom’s status from a Tavern License to a Bar License, the bartenders at RoHa Brewing Project were pouring “high point” beers (those coming in above 5.0% ABV) from cans last Friday afternoon. Also showcased on the backbar were a small selection of three spirits. In short order, the RoHa taproom will be selling beer (obviously) along with those regionally-sourced spirits, wine, Mountain West ciders and canned cocktails from Desolation Distilling.
Prior to this decision, beers made on-site registering more than 5.0% ABV were sold only as to-go items and staff were quick to halt anyone mistakenly cracking open a can of the take-home stuff.
The recent change in licensing is a move that RoHa co-owner Rob Phillips says is a game-changer for his operation, which recently celebrated a fifth year in business.
Obviously, he says, the move was made to sell “our high point beer [and] our full lineup of beers.”
The changeover also allows the brewery to buy a complement of “every form of alcohol: beer, spirits and wine. And that’s what we intend to do. At least at this time, we won’t make fancy cocktails. The heart-and-soul of our business is still our taproom. But we’ll have at least three spirits visible and they’ll be sourced locally as much as possible. We’re already secured a local whiskey and vodka and we’ll add in gin in due time.”
Phillips says the change is “a huge opportunity for us.” “We pivoted in the last six months to focus on the tap room space. This is our jumping off point to offer up a full lineup of beer,” he says. Along with cocktails, RoHa will serve ciders, which are especially appealing for people drinking gluten-free. “Of course, it’s a chance to offer up everything we brew. I think it’s an even bigger deal for people who’re traveling through Salt Lake City and wanted to try a beer while here, but couldn’t. This will really be a huge advantage for us from that angle.”
If you’ve not been to RoHa Brewing Project (located on 30 Kensington Avenue, ‘tween State and Main) here’s a primer:
This Is a Day Bar
The hours at RoHa should bring a smile to the face of those who’ve kicked off of work early or have the day to themselves. The occasional laptop gets cracked open during the daytime and a small, pleasant patio is available to those wishing for some vitamin D. The current hours are listed at: Monday-Tuesday, noon-8 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday, noon-10 p.m.; and Sunday, noon-6 p.m.
This Is Also a Dog Bar
You’ll figure that out quickly. Maybe because there’s a dog hanging around your feet, or you come across a hopper of free tennis balls, meant for chewing rather than racquets. A staffer’s dog, Kudo, is a frequent, mellow presence, and it’s not uncommon for a half-dozen canine friends to join Kudo on a busy weekend night.
That’s Entertainment
RoHa features live music every Thursday and Saturday, usually from 7-9 p.m., though that varies for the occasional performer. On Fridays, the brewpub hosts everything from trivia to open mic comedy to ax throwing (via a mobile unit from Social Axe Throwing) to art classes offered by The Paint Mixer. Some drag bingo has been known to dot the calendar, too.
Industry Specials
The Friday night event rotation also includes a monthly pairing of the house beers with a local food purveyor—the most-recent pairing was The Chocolate Conspiracy, so those options can be sweet or savory. On Wednesday afternoons, the staff also pours from a firkin, offering up a one-night-only chance to sip at some experimental efforts. Last week, that meant a tart (or more aptly described: TART) pineapple sour. Draft beers will retain the 5.0% maximum.
Let’s Call It a “Limited Menu”
The bar does offer a small selection of food, from opening to close. That means pretzels or pizzas daily, though food trucks offer an occasional visit, especially on weekends. (So far, Torito’s Tacos has been a regular-irregular visitor; they’ll also provide the food pairing options on May 20.) Phillips believes that food trucks will increase in frequency this summer, though he advises that fans shouldn’t really “expect us to be a go-to sort of place for dinner” on other nights. Having noshed on more than one, we can vouch for the pizzas as a fail-safe option.
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Celebrate the moms in your life with a damn-near universal love language—food. Whether you’re looking for an upscale brunch at one of Utah’s finest hotels, a few casual drinks or a foolproof dinner to serve at home, we’ve got you covered.
The Copper Onion and Copper Common
Move quickly to get Mother’s Day brunch or dinner reservations at The Copper Onion, one of SLC’s most acclaimed restaurants. For an adults-only affair, The Copper Onion’s sister bar Copper Common is serving a new brunch menu including roasted mushroom toast, Wagyu beef hash and beignets with whiskey caramel and berry compote.
The Copper Onion: 111 E. Broadway #170, SLC, 801-355-3282
Copper Common: 111 E. Broadway #190, SLC, 801-355-0543
Cucina
Celebrate Mother’s Day—and (hopefully) pleasant spring weather—with Cucina’s first live outdoor music of the season. Utah Americana band Lucky Find will be performing outside this favorite Avenues wine bar from 6-9 p.m. on May 7.
1026 2nd Ave., SLC, 801-322-3055
Flanker
Flanker is serving their signature brunch menu this Mother’s Day, with highlights like lobster fritters, smoked salmon bagel board and huevos rancheros tacos. Don’t forget the $5 mimosas, or go for a whole bottle of Veuve Clicquet for $100 instead. Live music by DJ Bangarang.
6 N. Rio Grande St., SLC, 801-683-7070
Franck’s
Franck’s four course Mother’s Day brunch is reappearing this year, priced at $115 for adults and $60 for kids 12 and under. The dining experience begins with their amuse—a marinated local egg with smoked tomato, celeriac and lemon-hollandaise. Choose two courses between chilled apricot gazpacho, 110 degree Scottish salmon, prime beef tenderloin tataki and burnt marshmallow tart.
6263 S. Holladay Blvd., SLC, 801-274-6264
Goldener Hirsch
Goldener Hirsch’s Mother’s Day brunch is a mixture of cold offerings and hot meals cooked right at your table. Menu highlights include smoked salmon blinis, homemade tagliatelle, white and green asparagus with ham and parsley potatoes, and parmesan loaf with truffle foam. $79 per person, including a glass of champagne.
7520 Royal St., Park City , 800-252-3373
Gourmandise
Take the guesswork out of Mother’s Day dinner with a ready-to-eat feast from Gourmandise. Menu items include baked glazed ham, potatoes gratin with gruyere and fresh herbs, roasted spring vegetables with honey citrus glaze, cheddar chive scones and fresh fruit salad. Each take-home kit is $130 and feeds 6-8, only available May 7.
250 S. 300 East, SLC, 801-328-3330
The Grand America and Little America
An elegant Mother’s Day Tea is a holiday tradition at Utah’s flagship hotel. Brunch reservations are already sold out at Laurel Brasserie & Bar and at Little America’s Grand Ballroom, but a first-come-first-served buffet at Little America is still available.
The Grand America: 555 S. Main St., SLC, 801-258-6000
Little America: 500 S. Main St., SLC, 801-596-5700
Hearth and Hill
Reserve your table for a Mother’s Day brunch feast at Park City’s Hearth and Hill, with a full menu of snacks, main courses, savory sides and dessert. Adults are $70, kids 5-12 are $35 and kids under 4 eat free.
1153 Center Dr., Park City, 435-200-8840
Homestead Resort
Give your mom the gift of both great food and a relaxing staycation. Simon’s, the restaurant at Midway’s Homestead Resort, is open for reservations-only brunch—with a menu including made-to-order omelets and a build-your-own dessert waffle—on May 8. Adults are $55 and children under 12 are $25.
700 Homestead Dr., Midway, 435-654-1102
Hub and Spoke
The popular brunch spot will not be disappointing with their Mother’s Day brunch buffet. Menu items include chicken and waffles, vegan grit skillet, classic French toast and assorted desserts. Adults dine for $44.90, kids under 12 $22.49.
1291 S. 1100 East, SLC, 801-487-0698
La Caille
Reservations are open for La Caille’s Mother’s Day brunch with dishes like crème brulée French toast, slow roasted prime rib and a Creole seafood boil. Young kids are welcome—they can even pot a plant for mom while the grown-ups eat.
9565 Wasatch Blvd., Sandy, 801-942-1752
Les Madeleines
Here’s a sweet gift idea. Les Madeleines is best known for its signature kouign-amann, a buttery cake made from layers of laminated bread dough. If your mom is out-of-state but still craves this France-via-Utah treat, Les Madeleines ships the pastry nationwide.
216 E. 500 South, SLC, 801-673-8340
The Lodge at Blue Sky
Yuta, at The Lodge at Blue Sky, is serving a three-course brunch menu on both Saturday and Sunday for $68. For something more casual, The Lodge will also serve an a la carte mimosa menu with games and a live performance from Utah musician Angie Petty.
27649 Old Lincoln Hwy., Wanship, 866-296-8998
Log Haven
Log Haven is offering a three course Mother’s Day dinner on May 8. With menu items such as grilled duroc pork chop, Manhattan cut New York steak, and parmesan reggiano risotto, your mother is sure to feel the love. $75 for adults, $45 for children, space is limited.
6451 E. Millcreek Canyon Road, SLC, 801-272-8255
Manoli’s
For breakfast with a Greek twist, try Manoli’s, which was named one of the state’s best restaurants in our 2022 Dining Awards. The restaurant’s fresh, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine is served for both brunch and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays.
402 E. 900 South, #2, SLC, 801-532-3760
Oquirrh
The inventive New American eatery Oquirrh is another 2022 Salt Lake Magazine Dining Award winner. On weekends, Oquirrh serves both brunch—the menu has sweet and savory versions of bread pudding French toast and hearty “hangover pasta”—and their regular dinner menu.
368 E. 100 South, SLC, 801- 359-0426
Pago on Main
Spoil your mother with upscale American fare at Pago’s newest Main Street location. For $42 per person, their brunch buffet includes pumpkin bread burrata appetizers, cauliflower carbonara, smoked trout kedgeree and more.
341 S. Main St., SLC, 801-441-2955
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Celebrate your mother with a three-course menu at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse for just $57. Menu highlights include steak & shrimp, twin tail lobster and caesar salad. If a take-home meal is more your style, consider their Celebration Feast which includes roast tenderloin, choice of salad, two signature sides and dessert. Feeds four at $195.
275 W. South Temple, SLC, 801-363-2000
2001 Park Ave., Park City, 435-940-5070
Stanza
The Italian restaurant is offering a special brunch and cocktail menu for Mother’s Day this year. Small plates include stonefruit burrata and mascarpone polenta. Their brunch menu features Wagyu New York strip and eggs, duck confit hash, peach French toast and jumbo gulf shrimp and grits. Don’t forget about Stanza’s standout pasta dishes like bucatini alla carbonara and yukon gold and chive gnocchi.
454 E. 300 South, SLC, 801-746-4441
Tulie Bakery
Treat your mom to a delectable creation by Tulie Bakery—a dark chocolate orange olive oil cake with mascarpone frosting. Place orders by May 4 to receive by Mother’s Day.
863 E. 700 South, SLC, 801-883-9741
1510 S. 1500 East, SLC, 801-410-4217
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