SceneSC — South Carolina Music

Cubs might be a newer name in Columbia, but for vocalist and guitarist Joe Chang, the connection to the city goes back years, long before relocating two years ago, through friendships, shows, and a scene that left a lasting impression. The band’s debut album, Meet Me at the Rocket, arrives Friday, April 17, with a release show at @artbarsc.

From Joe Chang of Cubs:

As a non-native of Columbia (now resident for two years), I grew up coming here since around 2005 because I met Adam Cullum (of Can’t Kids/many other bands) through a musicians wanted ad in the paper in North Carolina. Over the years, I made friends in the music scene and always admired how palpable and sweet the camaraderie amongst everyone was.

One of my most potent Cola memories is of my old band playing with Can’t Kids at the Hunter Gatherer probably in 2011 or so. I still have a paper handbill from that show that Adam drew.

The first time I saw Aaron and Those Lavender Whales play was at a house show in Clemson. I have a distinct memory of meeting Aaron and shaking his hand. He clasped mine with both of his and looked me in the eyes with such sincerity and warmth.

The last time I saw Aaron was actually at a friends’ gathering we had for Adam shortly after he passed in 2018. We all congregated at this big house in Ridgeway and passed a guitar around and sang and laughed and cried well into the night. It was a fond and fitting farewell to our friend the best way we knew how: through music and fellowship.

Loss just comes with the territory of playing the game, but it’s not always apparent what actually endures. For those of us left in the aftermath, we can only hope to pick up the pieces the same way we placed them: together.

So bring on the wrecking ball.

- Joe

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