BVE at Total Fest

Newsflash: Joe played with Black Velvet Elvis at Total Fest, and said he would play all remaining gigs, until he left town. The latest development is Tony Mats talking about the possibility of moving to Atlanta.

If the bands who left Missoula for bigger scenes had stayed here, this would be one of the biggest scenes. Rolling Stone would have to come here.

Joe Leaves BVE

Who's missing? Joe is, because he is leaving Black Velvet Elvis. He's being coy about his reasons for leaving and about what he may do next. It isn't a stretch to assume he will be playing with another band in the future, but with whom and where? Rumor has it, he is contemplating a move to Portland.

Olivia can still sing, and Tony can play the guitar. That's a double understatement, because they are both terrific at what they do, but without Joe, BVE loses some impact. A drum machine is no substitute.

Joe will play with the group, for one more outing, during Total Fest. His congenial manner has made him popular on the scene, and everyone wishes him well with whatever he does next.

Black Velvet Elvis Benefits Lolo Community Garage

Joe Brennan on the drums.

Give a shout out for the Velvet Underground. How many remember that symbol on Tony's shirt?


Olivia needs no introduction.










































I always thought Joe could power through the longest set, but Olivia pushed him to melt-down this night. First, his glasses steamed up, and then there was a puddle by the drums. Olivia kept asking the audience if we wanted another one, and we kept screaming yes.