Iconic   American music featured this weekend
 
In an unusual synergy the Strand Theatre will host dual shows this weekend highlighting the unique icons of musical expression that thrust America onto the creative global stage in the 20th century.
                 First on Saturday night at 8 p.m., the Blues and Rock n Roll will grace the historic boards of the theater as Smashed Productions presents “Pressed In Black” with special guest “Caffiene.”
                “Pressed in Black,” is a local three –piece band which concentrates on classic rock, blues and sprinkling of alternative, according to Joey Gaudin of Smashed Productions.
Comprised of bassist Jason Milbourn, lead singer and guitarist Kit Haymond and drummer and vocalist Matt Green, “Pressed in Black.” has been playing together for about a year and a half and currently has four original songs posted on the Web
                Hailing from Middletown, the trio sounds like “whatever it sets its mind to,” according to their My Space page. “We are currently recording in the studio and we are halfway done with an album.”
Musically, “Pressed in Black,” is influenced by everything from blues master Robert Johnson to contemporary punk-funk legends “The Red Hot Chili Peppers” and nearly all rock sandwiched in between these expressive poles.
 On Sunday afternoon at 2 another unique and influential American form of music (jazz) will echo resonantly from the Strand’s art deco walls as  pianist Dave Hepler brings his  smooth syncopations from Indianapolis to Shelbyville.
 A musician since the age of 8, Hepler has recorded 6 albums and been playing professionally across the Midwest since 1984. His Sunday show will feature guest bassist Frank Smith playing with Hepler in what promises to be an entertaining and satisfying venture into the coll sounds and history of this most American musical form.
“Music is the universal language,” Hepler said.  I cannot help but to share with you the way I see and feel the world around me. I hope you enjoy my musical conceptions and my interpretations of many of the great songwriters.
 Each of these engaging explorations of the distinct sounds and musical heritage of America are open to the public and ticket for each costs $10 and will be available at the door.