Ace and Asher (Concert Review)

"Just to let you know, this is the second Ace and Asher concert ever!" Howls Nate Rivard midway through the set of what actually is their second show ever. Rivard comandeers the stage with a kitsch that is oddly endearing, and suits his Bowie meets Doug Ingle vocal style completely. There are literaly 27 people at Paychecks Lounge in Hamtramck for this show, which is to include The Garden Party and Sugar Brown, but Rivard, his brother Charlie (drums), and guitarist Xander Buckingham, play as though they're the headlining act at Small's (think big boys, think big!) They open the set with the infectious, ticky-tack stomp of "Girl You Gotta Learn," a blues/funk jaunt anchored by Rivard's distinctive drawl. Musically, Ace and Asher tend to opt for the derivative stylings that much of the Detroit rock scene has embraced, and create a fusion that is equal parts, garage, soul, blues, funk, and pop. Although stiff at times, Buckingham's playing is crisp and controlled--a perfect anithesis to Rivard's vocals. Eight songs in, Nate gives up his duties on bass, grabs the tambourine and shakes to the back-beat supplied by younger brother Charlie, ushering in the dance friendly, and garuanteed fan favorite, "Ball and Chain." As Ace and Asher end the set with the riff heavy "Brother Brother," it's hard to believe that this is in fact their second show. Expect with time, that the brothers Rivard, and Buckingham will only get better, and will likely find their place amongst the many great bands striving to be the next big thing out of Detroit.


Chris Hoelscher
The Tool Box