For 13 years, Rocket 88 has delivered its music to the people of Oxford, and this Friday, it will continue that tradition by performing at 6 p.m on The Lyric Oxford’s stage.
“We always look forward to playing The Lyric, as we have played it many times, and every time, the stage sounds great, and the people there are so helpful and professional,” vocalist and guitarist Jamie Posey said. “Also, we are always happy to support local causes.”
With a mix of hill country blues, honky tonk, old time country, folk and rock ‘n’ roll, Rocket 88 has a unique sound that can be attributed to its home roots.
The members of Rocket 88 have grown up steeped in Southern culture. Members’ hometowns range from nearby Pontotoc to New Orleans which allows for their diverse, yet regional sound according to Posey.
“Our inspiration has many facets, including everyday real life, fictitious story lines, some major life moments and more,” vocalist and bassist Nathan Robbins said. “We also draw from the region and its musical history, hill country blues culture, other national and local artists and our musical heroes.”
Although family obligations hinder the band from touring consistently this summer, it still plans on making sure that its music is not only shared with the Oxford community through playing at local venues but also through its release of new content.
The band released its first album, titled “Full Circle,” in 2008, but has recently released more than 100 original songs on its website in a series known as “Songs of the Vault.” “Songs of the Vault” consists of the original songs that listeners may not hear by just attending live events. The band is also hoping to possibly create a vinyl album to release in the near future.
The growing dynamic of the group throughout the year has been unstoppable. Despite the departure of its drummer, Ryan Rogers, the band managed to maintain composure throughout the change.
“One of our regular faces, Ryan Rogers, moved to Nashville,” Robbins said. “We have a great group of local folks with which we collaborate, and local artist Bradley Gordon is more than capable and picks up the slack whenever needed. Bradley also played drums with us in the early years of the band.”
One thing Rocket 88 wants those who plan on attending its concert on Friday to know is that they will not be disappointed.
“You are in a for a treat. You’ll see well-seasoned musicians putting on a eclectic show that exudes a very connectable energy and vibe,” Robbins said.
Robbins encourages all members of the Oxford community, but especially students of the university, to try and attend these locally held musical events.
“Get out and see some live music. The scene can’t survive unless fans come to shows,” he said. “Lots of local venues have stopped having music due to low attendance. I’d love to see the college-age kids get back into live music. It’d be great to build the scene back up to how it was in years past. Go see bands.”
