by KELLI FONTENOT
Published Jan. 28, 2009 in The Current Sauce
The band's last performance at NSU took place more than a year ago.
Bass player and senior music education major Mitch Moehring said that after touring in Louisiana and Texas, the band is excited to perform for all of their friends in Natchitoches again.
In an interview, band members described their sound as "hardcore," "metal," and "inspirational." Among the bands' favorite fellow performers are The Devil Wears Prada, A Day To Remember, Marilyn Manson and August Burns Red.
Members of Dead By Morning include vocalist Chad Bentley, an NSU alumnus, and guitarist Michael Belew, who recently earned his music education degree at NSU.
Since their last performance in Natchitoches, the band has also welcomed the talents of a few new musicians. Joe DiMarco, sophomore music education major, plays drums, while Timathy Dorman, freshman theatre major, plays keyboard and "samples" - audio clips and sound effects.
A third new member, guitarist Gideon Cord Buchanan, is notoriously absent for interviews. DiMarco and Belew insisted that he exists and will show his face at the concert on Friday, which aims to raise at least $500 for Push America.
Dead By Morning's original lyrics promote positive messages, breaking the trend of hard rock's focus on death, depression and darkness. Their songs that do delve into these subjects offer a light at the end of the tunnel - advice on how to get through tough times, Moehring said.
Dorman added that the band's lyrics provide a refreshing contrast to those of other bands in the genre that students should be able to appreciate.
"I think it's a chance for them to get to finally experience post-hardcore music that isn't just the status quo," Dorman said.
Belew said the concert will also allow students to donate to a worthy cause that emphasizes empathy, abilities, teamwork and integrity.
"I don't think there could be a better reason for the concert itself," Belew said.
Mandi Ridgdell, the reigning Miss Northwestern Lady of the Bracelet, organized "Rock and Roll for Push America" and based the philanthropy aspect of the event on her LOB platform.
Ridgdell, who is dyslexic, said her personal understanding of people with disabilities and their need for support inspired this event.
"I wanted to do something different than just having a bake sale or selling T-shirts or something. I wanted something students could get involved in," Ridgdell said.
The concert will feature performances by 6 Miles II Point and Tyler Read, two of Ridgdell's favorite bands.
"They're all awesome," she said.
Ridgdell encourages all students to attend Friday and enjoy the music. She emphasized the benefits of contributing to an organization such as Push America and helping those with hardships.
"It makes you realize how much you do have, and it also just puts a smile on their face," Ridgdell said.
