By Chad Taylor
soundcheck@dmcityview.com

The “Vocal Hero” karaoke contest wrapped up on April 9 at Prairie Meadows. The finals of the popular annual contest were heavily attended by folks eager to watch the 10 finalists battle it out as God intended — for cash prizes. But in addition to the expected gathering of talented barroom amateurs, the contest’s large purse ($5,000 first prize) attracted several local professional singers. In fact, the top three prize spots were claimed by folks who already make their living through their voices — a fact that struck some observers as low-hanging fruit. “It’s dumb,” said one reader. “If (you’re) a professional singer taking part in a local karaoke contest for prize money, I have to question just how ‘professional’ you are.” Another attendee took a more practical view, “Sure, it’s kind of like candy from babies. But it’s the same thing with poker pros. They can’t expect to earn all their living from actual events. If they don’t go to casinos and fleece the amateurs once in a while, rent doesn’t get paid.” Indeed.

The first round of Nitefall on the River acts have been announced, and as usual, they’re delightfully eclectic. Things kick off on Saturday, May 26, with Hairball. The other acts announced include The Nadas playing on June 1, Jimmy Cliff on June 12, Bruce Hornsby on June 20 (I know it’s been 21 years, but I miss the Range), Yonder Mountain String Band on July 5, and the BoDeans on Thursday, July 26. Tickets for all shows will go on sale starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 20, and are available at TicketFly.com.

Lincoln, Neb. rapper Scru Face Jean brings his Burn Slow Tour to Vaudeville Mews on Friday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. Admission to the all-ages show is $5, and local acts Gadema with Richie Daggers and Oktane Gang open.

Also the Vaudeville Mews, SoundNotes pick o’ the week is the freshly reunited rock duo Viva Montesa, playing Saturday, April 21, at 9:30 p.m., with Resurrection Mary and Violent Fade opening. Show is 21+, and tickets will run you $5.

On Tuesday, April 24, the Gaslamp will play host to Imagine Dragons, playing along with Josh Davis and Will Locker. Show starts at 7 p.m., and tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance at midwestix.com

Wednesday, April 25 sees Hellyeah, Clutch, Kyng and Monstro rocking out at Wooly’s. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with festivities scheduled to kick off at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $25, and can be purchased through ticketmaster. The show was moved to Wooly’s from Val Air, so any tickets bought from the Ballroom’s ticket office will be honored at the door.

Tickets are on sale now for Styx, performing at Prairie Meadows on Friday, June 8. The show will be 21+, and doors will open at 7 p.m. tickets run $30, $45, $63 and $68, and can be purchased at the Prairie Meadows Box Office, or through ticketmaster. CV