Music and Beer Pairing in Bothell
- James R. Wagner Jr.
- May 10, 2018
- 4 min read
Music and beer go together like peanut butter and jelly. It is that simple. I simply power up a track that best fits my mood, crack open a complimenting beer and experience synergy. The Bothell Block Party and BrewFest has been flawlessly pairing music and beer since 2015. I can honestly say that it's because of this marriage that I haven’t missed a block party yet. This rousing event brings together local craft breweries and local musicians all for the enjoyment of the Greater Bothell community. This year the festival is Saturday, May 19th from 3:00 to 8:00 PM.
(Photos by A Beerded Gentleman from Block Party and BrewFest 2017)
On stage this year there are six bands that will match all the positive energy you bring to the festival. Black Stax, Eclectic Approach, I WIll Keep Your Ghost, Ruler, and SISTERS and Smokey Brights are destined to amaze and move you. After connecting with a few of the bands, I can assure you they are excited for the Block Party and BrewFest audience.
I was able to connect with three bands and I thought everyone should know they unanimously want to have fun with everyone at the Block Party. More specifically, ...
SISTERS said they will “treasure” the you at the Block Party. They want to enjoy the local beers and those that drink them.
Black Stax wants to “amaze” and “entertain” you at the Block Party. They want to feel the energy of the people attending the Block Party and BrewFest.
Eclectic Approach has every intention to “party”, jam and hang out with everyone at the Block Party. They also want the BrewFest beer experience.
Black Stax, Eclectic Approach and SISTERS were kind enough to answer a few questions for me to share with the Bothell community and to all that are coming to have fun at the festivities
How do you see music and the craft beer culture impact each other?
SISTERS and Eclectic Approach both understand how the beer and music synergy is very experiential in nature. Half jokingly and half serious, Eclectic Approach has learned that the more the audience drinks, the better they sound. Side note: The same goes for my singing at a karaoke bar; I am a rock star after midnight on the stage at a dive bar. However, I will not be up on stage. Therefore, I recommend keep grabbing those craft beer tasters and fulfill Eclectic Approaches need and help make them sound like musical Gods.
In addition to the electrifying synergy between beer and music, Black Stax knows that the harmony between beer and music extends beyond the experiential. Black Stax describes it as:
“anytime you can combine two things that people can enjoy whether it is the feeling that the libation gives them, or how the music moves them, it is important that the continuum of that is ongoing. We can not pat ourselves on the back too fast just as we can not change things overnight. The continuous pour of evolution and elevation is Growth. So, building exchangeable connections with each culture , so that each benefit equally is important.”
What type of beer pairs the best with your music?
Black Stax mentioned that their music pairs best with an apricot ale. After listening to their music, I would definitely consider it like an apricot; its juicy, full of body and goes down smooth. Black Stax also revealed that the best songs to listen to at a beer festival are U Ain't Tuff and Red Velvet Lounge because of its welcoming intro to the lounge feel. I’m ready for lounging with Black Stax. Are you?
Eclectic Approach said that if Four Loko was a beer then that would best pair with their jams. Technically, Four Loko is a malt beverage. But, if Eclectic Approach was a craft beer it would be “the opposite of the worse beer you’ve ever had.” I had a feeling but Eclectic Approach confirmed my suspicion that their song Cool is the best song to enjoy at a beer festival.
SISTERS described their music pairs best with a zesty hefeweizen. Yes, I would have to wholeheartedly agree. Their music is light with a flavorful effervescent energy. Now, if SISTERS was craft beer they would be a heavy, I’m talking 9.4% ABV, IPA called Siesta Siesta. I guess if you party hard with SISTERS at the Block Party you will have to take an afternoon nap. If we all are lucky, SISTERS will play Giant Tears, their self proclaimed best song to listen at a beer festival.
What are your favorite breweries in Washington?
These bands do know their Washington breweries.
Black Stax is partial to Elysian Brewing and Fremont Brewing.
SISTERS savors the refreshments from Georgetown Brewing and Aslan Brewing.
Eclectic Approach enjoys the liquid snacks from No-Li Brewhouse, Iron Horse Brewery and Half Lion Brewing.
Where to get the Block Party musician’s music?
Black Stax mention that you can find them on Soundcloud
Eclectic Approach prefers to connect with them at the Block Party to get their music
SISTERS have several platforms for fans to get their music → Click HERE
After listening to all these bands' music online, I am really stoked for Bothell's annual block party full of great music and tasty craft brews. Make sure you grab your tickets early, This event has been selling out the last 2 years! Buy them on the Greater Bothell Chamber of Commerce website.
Ticket Information:
$30 Online in Advance ($35 Day of Event)
$25 Online for UWB Alumni/UWAA Members ($30 Day of Event)
Purchase the Alumni Weekend Bundle Ticket Here (includes the 5k Run/Walk.)
$10 Designated Driver Tickets Available at the Door (includes a bottled water.)
Registration price includes a commemorative glass and 8 tasting tickets. Anyone 21 or older is welcome! You don't have to be a UW Bothell alum to join in on the fun!
Location:
Downtown Bothell in the Pacific Furniture Gallery parking lot
Cheers,
James
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