by Kaitlyn Ulmer
As one of the unlucky 1 in 10 guys who lose their hair, Grant June “took the fall for the guys in the band” 89 Mojo, but he will be standing on his own two feet to play a solo acoustic show at 716: Fine Art on Aug. 9. According to June, “six more dudes owe [him] a thank you” for his bald head, but a crowd of both bald and full-haired fans are expected at the gallery for this performance.
Formed in 1999, the band 89 Mojo is an indie group that plays original melody-driven rock and pop music, as well as covers of many popular songs. June serves as lead guitarist and backing vocals, along with writing and co-writing several songs with lead singer Al Schroeder.
“89 Mojo usually carries the generic tag of ‘Power Pop,’” said June, “but we’re really a crazy, alcohol-induced mix of radio-friendly rock and pop from the 80’s until now - and that includes both our originals as well as our covers.”
With six albums under its belt, 89 Mojo has performed at Milwaukee Summerfest, Racine Harborfest and a variety of venues, including McAuliffe’s in Racine and the Brat Stop in Kenosha. The band has also opened for Grand Funk Railroad, Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers, Will Hoge, Sister Hazel, Night Ranger, Fingertight, Edgar Winter, Rick Derringer and Firehouse.
Although their sound is very unique, if it had to be compared to anything, it could be likened to a rare blend of ACDC, Tenacious D and Barenaked Ladies, with a rock/pop beat and lyrics that are both clever and amusing. A five o’clock happy hour theme song, “Shitty Job” makes a great barroom hit and the yodeling in “Guilty Pleasures” reminds us of “drunken weddings and polka all night long.”
Even though June has been playing with the band for several years, the 716:Fine Art show will be one of his first performances by himself. With that in mind, he promises that the show will be “unpolished and unpretentious, but will also be heartfelt and honest.”
Along with new and old songs, June will be sharing how the band has evolved since the Sahara Jack days, funny stories from the road, and what the inspiration was behind various songs. He has also invited a few surprise special guests to perform with him on select songs.
To learn more about June and 89 Mojo, visit www.89mojo.com. Tickets to this Inside the Music show featuring June are available at www.716fineart.org. Seats are $10 each or tables for four can be reserved for $40. The 716: Fine Art gallery is located at 401 Main Street in Racine, Wisc.
