Saturday, Sept. 19th, a miniature reunion of sorts took place at the Shrine in Tulsa. Granted, all those who gathered would have loved for it to be under better circumstances. However, it was a heartwarming demonstration of the bond shared by what many in the community consider “Rocklahoma Family”. So what brought so many together? A wonderful woman by the name of Xochitl Rodriguez (pronounced “So-Chi”) who was in a terrible accident that landed her in ICU for several weeks with broken ribs, concussion, and other injuries. Without missing a beat, the news spread throughout the community which rallied. Steve Murdock of Murdock Productions teamed with Venue Shrine to host the #XOSTRONG Benefit bringing a host of local bands. Several having played Rocklahoma in past years.
The event was a great night as the venue quickly filled up early. This, in itself, is a feat given the current pandemic concerns. Beginning at 2 pm, Shane Diego took the stage first with an acoustic set that featured a few originals and rock classics that got the crowd in the mood.
Next up was GRIND‘s CJ McClellan, playing mostly originals and a special guest for a song. CJ played an acoustic set just a week prior with his bandmate, Dale Diver, at IDL Ballroom as they opened for legendary Phil Lewis of LA Guns -A Live Intimate Acoustic Night produced by DEB Concerts.
Rounding out the acoustic sets was Sprout the Anti-Hero with his acoustic set where he poured out his soul as only he can do. Sprout should look and sound familiar as he was the frontman for the local favorite, Screaming Red Mutiny which played their final show in 2019 at Steve’s The Proving Grounds Stage unsanctioned campgrounds stage at Rocklahoma.
With the acoustics out of the way, it was time to go electric. And that switched things into high gear with Secrets of a Ghost bringing a whole lot of attitude and showmanship.
5 Dollar Thrill followed them up with a sound bordering punk, American rock, and a little extra something special. Their video for “By My Side” was also featured the next night on Surviving Rocklahoma. This is an awesome band that you definitely want to check out.
The “Bastard Sons of Rock And Roll” themselves, The Outlaw Devils blasted on stage playing songs from their new album and definately got the crowd into the groove.
With the place now filled with good tunes, cold brews, and a whole lot of love, it was time to “Light the Skies Electric” with Mudd Flux. Mudd Flux played a host of their past and new songs from their new album “Light The Skies Electric”. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mudd Flux at Rocklahoma 2019 for an interview that can be found here.
SEVERMIND took the stage next much to the crowd’s delight. These guys have such a clean and pure rock sound that can not be denied. You are really cheating yourself if you haven’t looked them up yet!
Wrapping up the night was what proved to be a surprise treat for yours truly. I haven’t yet experienced the brutal rhythms that is Broken Flesh. These guys came out looking like something straight out of the mind of Rob Zombie. These guys emitted a sound that took a few but surprise but in a way that had those left in attendance standing in awe or in front head banging and moshing.
The music was very much a welcome excuse to spend the day at the Shrine, but what called us to that small oasis in the desert of a pandemic stricken Tulsa music scene, was our home-girl Xochiti. The benefit was aimed at raising money to help with her medical expenses and to help with the financial burden of what looks to be a lengthy physical rehabilitation. And, you all did not disappoint. The raffle and silent auction of donated items generated a healthy gift that was delivered to Xochiti in a touching gift. She was overwhelmed with the pouring of well wishes and prayers. She tuned into the live streams on facebook as much as she could, often times being brought to tears with gratitude and love. This is what Rocklahoma family is all about. Pictures from the event can be found below.
