by Leslie Marlow

If you’re a fan of hard rock tunes from the ’70s and ’80s, don’t miss seeing local band the Melodic Drifters. The band’s name certainly belies its great rock and roll style. They’re definitely melodic but they do anything but drift. I caught the Melodic Drifters at a recent show at Anderson Mill Tavern, which is a local dive bar in North Austin that showcases some great bands on the weekends.

When I walked in the door, lead singer Allen Michael was working the already-forming crowd of people in the bar. This Saturday night a few meetup groups got together (www.meetup.com) for a night of dancing. A mostly 40+ crowd, we were booty-shaking like teenagers to some great tunes from AC/DC to Led Zeppelin.

Allen Michael’s energy and enthusiasm got everyone on the dance floor. Quite often, he got off the stage and into the crowd of people singing and dancing. Then I lost sight of him as he made his way towards the back of the bar by the pool tables. We could still hear him singing and we were still dancing. A moment later, he was back on the dance floor, dancing along with us. Allen Michael is such an engaging performer and he has such an infectious personality that everyone there was smiling and having a great time. He’s probably one of the most enthusiastic singers I’ve seen in Austin. He truly enjoys every single moment.

I was able to catch Allen Michael and one of his band mates Darren outside during the break. They were both very friendly and posed for a few pictures for me. Allen Michael made sure to tell me that the Melodic Drifters also play some of their own original tunes. Check them out here: http://www.myspace.com/melodicdrifters  http://www.facebook.com/melodicdriftersband. The other band members include Darren Lovio (Guitar, Vocals); Paul Minshew (Bass Guitar, Vocals); Mike Miresole (Drums) Shelley Thibideau (Keyboards, Vocals).

The Melodic Drifters play again at Anderson Mill Tavern on Feb. 22, so be sure to see their show. You won’t be disappointed!