The Downtown Livewires
The Downtown Livewires is a 6-piece electric blues band that hails from the vibrant region of Northwest Arkansas. Their music is a fusion of high-energy Electric Blues, Rock, and Memphis blues. Let me share some insights about this talented group:
- Winners of the 2017 International Blues Challenge hosted by Northwest Arkansas’ Ozark Blues Society, The Downtown Livewires have made their mark in the blues scene.
- They are known for their enthusiasm, talent, and energetic performances that never fail to bring joy to the crowd.
- When they take the stage, it’s like hiring a party in a box—they come prepared to play their hearts out and raise the roof every time.
- Their repertoire includes classic blues tunes like “Hound Dog,” “Sweet Home Chicago,” and “Stormy Monday,” as well as original compositions such as “Damned If I Do” and “Goin’ to the Casino”.
- The Downtown Livewires have been a crowd favorite at events like the City of Bentonville’s Orchard Concert Series, drawing large audiences and leaving a lasting impression.
HANDSHAKE SAINTS
The Handshake Saints came together mystically as if the perfect notes of a musical marriage had been ordained. The groove and feel always take president with their original material, cultivated by a blend of musical influences that bring a decidedly modern twist on a vintage sound. Their upbeat rhythms, infectious melodies, and engaging lyrics feel rich in rock-n-roll history, born from the same blue-collar street corners that made Bruce Springsteen “Born to Run” and caused Aretha Franklin to preach about “Respect.”
And when the Saints hit the stage, the music explodes, driving the crowd into a righteous and rhythmic fervor that takes them on a rollicking journey through a series of passionate, tuneful, and charmingly ferocious songs.
Formed in 2019, the Handshake Saints are a tight-knit band of brothers that includes Aaron Mullins (piano), Roger Norman (drums), Phil Cristofaro (bass), and Josh Masten (guitar).
The Handshake Saints write, record, and perform their blend of original music in the region of Northwest Arkansas. Their first single release, Hard to Be a Saint, is available now on Spotify and all streaming platforms.
In 2021 the band released a three song EP entitled, Three Songs and the Truth. For My Baby / Running Away / You Just Wanna Be Free – can also be found on all streaming platforms.
The Handshake Saints have been featured on the TV show, Good Day NWA, and have been reviewed by ReadJunk.com and the Ark of Music. The have performed at George’s Majestic Lounge, The Railyard Live, Bentonville 4th of July Celebration, Meteor Guitar Gallery and various other venues in Northwest Arkansas and Missouri.
The band is currently on the road with new songs, as well as classic favorites, with several shows scheduled in 2024.