Proud Larry’s is known for the variety of performances held there. Tonight will see the return of homegrown Oxford band The Holy Ghost Electric Show. The band consists of Cody Rogers, the lead vocalist, a guitarist and the one in charge of the harmonica; Jake Rogers, a guitarist and banjo player; Austin Wheeler, the drummer; Will Shirley, the lead guitarist, and Connor Wroten, the bassist. The band was formed in an old cabin on the Rogers’ family’s property and consists of a group of friends who just want to have a good time. At first listen, The Holy Ghost Electric Show seems to be an American folk rock band with a few other genres thrown in, but that is not the way the band sees it.
“We play American music because, just like how America is a melting pot, all our sounds originate from somewhere,” Cody Rogers said. “We’re not trying to be one particular thing.”
As such, The Holy Ghost Electric Show’s music consists of a whole grouping of different genres and sounds. The band is very open-minded, never opposed to trying new ideas and letting creativity flow.
“We always want to bring in new things,” Rogers added.
This particular show will feature a horns section playing alongside the band. It will be a new experience even for people who have already seen the band play live. The members are excited to be coming home to play this next show.
“When we come back to Oxford we always feel welcome,” Rogers said. “It feels warm. Every show is a blessing, but when we play here we know our friends will be there to greet us and we can make new friends and enjoy Southern hospitality.”
This performance is quite special to the band, as it is the night it unveils its debut album, “Let the Waters Rise.” The band has been working hard to create this album and is extremely excited to show it off tonight.
“We poured our hearts into this album,” Rogers said. “I’m very excited for people to be able to be a part of it and celebrate with us.”
Rogers said he hopes everyone who comes experiences the same joy and anticipation the band experienced during the making of the album.
“The thing I like about Proud Larry’s is that I’m able to get up on that stage and play and I’m just a nobody,” Rodgers said. “I guess that’s the big thing — the ground there is level for everybody.”
And it is a good thing, too, because also playing Thursday night are The Red Thangs and Light Beam Rider. Like The Holy Ghost Electric Show, The Red Thangs and Light Beam Rider are Mississippi-based bands composed of good friends who enjoy making music together. The Holy Ghost Electric Show is excited to be sharing the stage with them.
“There’s a lot of camaraderie when local bands play,” a Proud Larry’s manager said. “Friends and other bands come out to support whoever is playing.”
The show tonight is definitely something to attend, as the charm of playing a bar is that it is rowdy and welcoming. Come out and see The Holy Ghost Electric Show along with The Red Thangs and Light Beam Rider at 9 p.m. at Proud Larry’s as they celebrate music and the happiness that comes with great company.
