Concert to benefit UNC sailing club

Rock the Boat, a benefit concert sponsored by the University Sailing Club, is back and better than ever.

Which is good: It’s only the second year of the annual event. This year, the night will feature a trio of bands, with a special appearance by Chapel Hill’s own comedy group, Dirty South Improv.

Headlining the show are Nathan Asher and the Infantry, a local band from Chapel Hill. Frontman Asher describes his musical group as a “modernized version of Dylan and the Band.”

The overall quality of the performers is expected be to a draw for concertgoers.

“It’s a really good lineup,” said Kami Periman, manager for Nathan Asher and the Infantry.

The local band A Rooster for the Masses and The Films from Charleston, S.C., are also scheduled to perform.

“The other bands are really good,” Asher said.

A portion of the benefit’s proceeds will go to help WCOM community radio of Carrboro purchase much-needed radio and computer equipment.

The coordinators of the event said they hope to increase awareness of local music by showcasing some of the area’s up-and-coming acts.

Kristina Ferrari, public relations manager for the University Sailing Club, said last year’s event went well but believes this year will be even more successful.

“Hopefully, we’ll have a bigger turnout,” she said.

Ferrari said that because the event is so close to campus — the show will be held at The Library on East Franklin Street — it’s a good reason to come out and see the show.

She also said the wide range of bands performing will attract students with diverse musical tastes.

“Basically, it’s an eclectic group,” Ferrari said.

Asher promised a high-quality show. He said that with his band in particular, concertgoers won’t get your average throw-away rock lyrics.

“The songs are topical,” Asher said.

He also noted the size of his group as one of its strengths. “We’re a big band. We’ve got a really good drummer and piano player,” he added.

Asher said his band also tries to incorporate hip-hop and electronic elements into their music.

The event begins at 8 p.m. Thursday and is expected to run until about 2 a.m.

Tickets will be available at the door for $5. Rock the Boat T-shirts also will be on sale.

For more information on the concert, visit http://www.rocktheboat05.com.

 

Contact the A&E Editor at artsdesk@unc.edu.