As someone who has been slowly imersing themselves in the local music scene of Kalamazoo over the last few years, I am excited for the list of musicians playing at Milhouse this Friday. These are long-standing artists in the community, who would have easily been seen on the same bill a few years ago, but as it stands times have changed, people have moved and taken on other responsibilities, now making some of these artists a rare treat. Even if you didn’t spend the past few years catching shows with these artists, or (like I often did) just catching their names on flyers, this music will move you even without nostalgia or personal connection.

GLOWFRIENDS are the quintessential shoegaze family band of Kalamazoo, who have been putting on emotive, spacey shows in the area (and on tour) for many years. Often seen up on stage supporting touring shoegaze acts, it’s a rare sight to have them performing in a basement venue.

JES KRAMER has been making music in Michigan since 17, and has made many friends in Kalamazoo in the process. Her heart-felt casio-pop and loop pedal prowess is renowned. Although Jes is still writing and performing, she can only occasionally make it into Kalamazoo from Grand Rapids, do to her busy family life, so see her while you can!

SON DROP is the former Kalamazooan James Duke’s rock ‘n’ roll brain baby. James has moved to Minnesota, so Son Drop shows are now few and far between. Come see James’ charming smile and hear his relateable get-stuck-in-your-head-and-sing-without-thinking songs. Son Drop will also be releasing a new album at this show!

And Finally, KOLKA KARMADON will be reuniting. For those who do not know, Kolka Karmadon was a music project featuring Jes Kramer, James Duke, and Travis of Circle, Get Square! These folks wrote songs about natural disasters, and created an album that is likely my most played album by any local artist.

And for some reason they were filmed performing one of these songs for mlive in 2008.

Show will be at 8:30. Bring money to buy merch. Respect your surroundings.