Where Have All the Dreamers Gone? by Karri Fairfield

Matt Ehlers…you may have heard the name or seen the face, either as drummer for a well known local punk band or guitarist for a female fronted hard rock band. Ehlers has put down the sticks and unplugged the guitar for the time being gone acoustic, wowing fans all over Western Washington.

Matt has been in the “industry” on and off stage for many years. I met him, several years ago, as the Production Manager of the largest club venue in Boise, Idaho. As we sat in the upstairs bar, we discussed the acts that he had worked with in various capacities and locations over the years. The list was diverse and included performers like Elvis Costello, The Pixies, Sevendust, REO Speedwagon and Killswitch Engage,

His meekness astounded me.

A couple years later, Matt and I teamed up to book a full two-week tour for the ska that I represented and the Japanese punk band with whom he was working. It was then that he informed me that he spoke some Japanese and has booked full US & Japanese tours previously, being only one of a handful of people in the US with this skill.

His experiences floored me.

As drummer, Matt played locally and toured internationally, with Jaded52 and locally with Pirex as their lead guitarist. The eclectic talent that he possesses and professional experience (booking, logistics, and tour management) has well-surpassed your average musician. So when I received the phone call that Matt was doing solo shows, I giggled.

His abilities continues to surprises me.

Writing a review about someone you can call “friend” might be a journalistic taboo, however how dare I not share! A couple of days ago, Matt was informed that he will have an opportunity to support the person who is probably his single largest musical influence. A dream comes true?… Possibly… Probably. Either way, it is an incredible and exciting opportunity that no one will want to miss.

On Thursday November 1, Matt Ehlers will open the evening and share the stage with Chuck Ragan. Ragan is the former co-frontman of two extremely influential Florida bands Hot Water Music and Rumbleseat. The event will be held at El Corazon in Seattle and begins sharply at 7:30pm. Admission is $12; tickets are available both online and at many retail outlets.

“All successful people …are big dreamers. They imagine what their future could be, ideal in every respect, and then they work every day toward ... that goal or purpose.” Come be a part of this opportunity, this dream. It’s a night that Matt Ehlers will never forget.

For more information on the performance, please visit the following websites: www.myspace.com/stepoutpresents, www.chuckragan.com, www.elcorazonseattle.com.

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