Delaware singer-guitarist Grace Vonderkuhn’s birthday/record release celebration on Friday night at Wilmington’s 1984 was an ecstatic musical event. Capping off a four-band, all-female-led bill that took the listener into Saturday morning, Vonderkuhn brilliantly brought her new record Reveries to life.
1. Vonderkuhn is a standout among today’s female rockers.
With hints of Marissa Paternoster and Carrie Brownstein in her vocal and guitar DNA, Vonderkuhn is a vital new rock voice. The Delaware native powered through all of Reveries while the super-packed arcade-game-filled bar ate up every chord and lyric. Lead single “Worry” crackled with Vonderkuhn, bassist Brian Bartling and drummer Dave Mcgrory buzzing through the listener’s ears. Make sure to catch her in Philadelphia on April 27 at the Pharmacy.
2. Hoochi Coochi dazzled.
The Dover four-piece stoked the fire Friday. The group—l ed by charismatic, super-charged vocalist Danielle Johnson—is a freewheeling blues outfit on the brink. Johnson expertly works the crowd while wildly making the stage her playground for movement and sound.
3. Eyebawl was a punk-fever dream.
Power trio Eyebawl played a tight selection of rock led by singer and guitarist Erin Silva. She brought a gritty edge to the performance, hinting at a bright future to come.
4. Sarah Koon was an energetic starter.
Vonderkuhn’s sister got the rock rolling with an enthusiastic collection of keyboard-driven tunes. With her engaging playing and fun, focused singing, she provided an animated start to a crowd-pleasing showcase for some of Delaware’s finest up-and-coming female artists.
