Some pretty big rock bands have been launched from the Granite State (ok, only two really — Aerosmith and Godsmack, but we're a small state and those are some pretty big names). If you are looking for a local band to perform at your wedding or party, we'll help you find what you are looking for with this list of the locals.
Already have a favorite New Hampshire band? See what they're up to and where they might be jamming by checking out our event calendar.
Rock
7th Child
7th Child is a "genre bending" band who has written over 70 originals over the last few years that span the gamut of hard-rock, rock, blues, funk, jazz, soul and pop. 7th Child also performs many cover tunes as well - also spanning those same genres.
During live performances, they are definitely heavy hitters and tend to "rip-it-up." They play acoustic shows, heavy shows, funk shows, bluesy soulful shows or a complete mix. They do not do any "Metal" per se, but do have quite a few heavy numbers that can compete with that style. They prefer to play to a more discriminating audience that enjoys music with melodies, soulful singing, rippin' lead guitar and a funky groove that keeps the feet tapping. Their music has lots of hooks and people tend to remember the songs after they hear them. Website:7th Child Contact:mail@7thchild.com
Betterman's Rule
Betterman's Rule hails from the Manchester area. They have been heating up stages since 2003. Their songwriting is a collaboration, usually built on a framework of lead singer Pat Page's lyrical or melodic idea. Each band member adds their own heart into it to form the Betterman's Rule sound. The members are all veteran musicians, with most playing for more than a decade. They have been compared to bands like Train, Sublime and the Black Crowes. Website:Betterman's Rule Contact:bobby@bettermansrule.com
Fair Game
Individually, they each have many years of experience in the music business. Together, they cover a wide variety of songs from classic and southern rock to traditional and new country artists. Based in Concord, NH, the band is ready to provide your club, bar or private party with a blend of entertaining music that is tailored to your audience. Their aim is to have your guests all dancing, singing along and into the party spirit! Website:Fair Game My Space page Contact:Email Fair Game
From Here Down
From Here Down is a relatively young five-piece band from southern New Hampshire, who has a penchant for combining their love of top-40 radio hits and down-tuned metal that is as far away from the top-40 as possible - and the result is a breed of music with heavy, driving rhythms and flow-y, poppy melodies that can appeal to the radio crowd without alienating the metal purists. The five boys in From Here Down are quickly emerging as a band that won't stop till they are at the top and won't take no for an answer. Website:From Here Down Contact:booking@fromheredown.com
Grinning Lizards
The Grinning Lizards are a favorite with music lovers and partygoers in New England. With their blend of classic rock and pop music, the band has maintained a steady flow of fans and appreciation throughout the music scene. The Lizards perform everything from Bob Marley to the Beatles to Van Morrison and the Rolling Stones. And yes, they play weddings! Website:Grinning Lizards Contact:druma32@aol.com
Jamantics
Hailing from New Hampshire, jamantics is a five piece band that combines elements of rock, funk, pop and jam to create tasty licks and high energy live shows infused with five part vocal harmonies.
Formed in early 2009, New Hampshire rock/funk/jam band jamantics went through a few inceptions before finally landing on their present line-up of Freeland Hubbard on lead guitar/vocals, Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki on fiddle/vocals, Eric Reingold on bass/vocals/Beatbox/hand drum, Lucas Gallo on Rhythm Guitar/Vocals and starting up front before finding his home behind the drums, lead singer/drummer Masceo who has dialed in the backbeat and voice of jamantics music.
Known for putting on high energy live shows, five part vocal harmonies, interacting with the audience (including dancing in the audience, getting on each other's shoulders and lots of jumping), and superbly harmonized tasty licks from the finger tips of Freeland Hubbard and Jordan Tirrell-Wysocki, a jamantics live show is always different, always enjoyable and always high energy. Website:Jamantics Contact:tastylicks@jamantics.com
Chad LaMarsh
Chad LaMarsh got his start in Manch-Vegas. He is often seen performing at the Black Brimmer. He has seen some success throughout the New England area and considers himself a Boston musician today. He was schooled at the famous Berklee College of Music, from where he graduated in 1992. His style is distinctly pop rock and appeals to fans of all ages. As a result, LaMarsh has found a loyal following in the southern New Hamsphire club scene. Website:Chad LaMarsh Contact:chadlamarsh@comcast.net
Josh Logan
Josh Logan counts Otis Redding, Audioslave, Tupac Shakur, Stevie Wonder and Pearl Jam among his influences, but his sound is purely rock and roll. Logan has received airplay on local Rock Radio Stations WGIR and WHEB. He also appeared on the reality show "Rock Star: Supernova" but was eliminated on August 9, 2006. Logan continues to put it out there the old fashioned way, by playing as often as possible to reach as many people as possible. He's locally very well-known and is perhaps on the cusp of true stardom. Website:Josh Logan Website Contact:Josh Logan Band
Mama Kicks
Mama Kicks is one of the most well-known rock bands in southern New Hampshire. Their classic rock sound is heavily influenced by the blues. The band was originally formed in 1994 by lead singer and guitarist Lisa Guyer and keyboardist Gardner Berry. They can be seen performing regularly throughout the Manchester area, but are also available for weddings or parties. Website:Mama Kicks Contact:gman48@aol.com
Matt McKay
Matt McKay is an alternative folk/rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Matt has performed, recorded and written for his own projects and many other artists including members of Extreme, Van Halen, Aerosmith's Joe Perry Project, Journey's Steve Perry band, Steve Vai Band, Reba MacIntyre, Rick Berlin and many others.
Matt is currently performing solo acoustic alternative folk/rock in venues throughout New England.
Website:Matt McKay Contact:info@mattmckay.net
Mercuryhat
Mercuryhat is a popular alternative band from Portsmouth. Lead by singer/songwriter Eric Ott, Mercuryhat's sound has been called "Americana-tinged" -- falling somewhere between the Jayhawks' Rainy Day Music, Ryan Adams' Jacksonville City Nights, and R.E.M's Monster. The band recently released its sophomore album, Blinding Blues, Stinging Bees on Lost Sailor Records. Available online at cdbaby.com and iTunes. Also on sale at Bull Moose Records, Portsmouth. Live shows are often packed as the band member's deep recording and touring experience shines on stage.
Mark Edgerly — lead guitar and backing vocals; Eric Ott — lead vocals and rhythm guitar; Steve Jacques — drums and percussion; Tom Ferry — keyboards, guitar; Chris Shaw — bass guitar and backing vocals. Edgerly and Jacques are also members of New Hampshire's well-loved band Pondering Judd.
Website:Mercuryhat Website My Space:Mercuryhat My Space Page Contact:hifispin@gmail.com
Mindset X
The musical journey began in the fall of 2004. Steven Scott and Adam Cote were looking for a new bassist due to the breakup of their last musical engagement. Jerry Houle, a drummer by trade, contacted Steven in hopes for a tryout on bass guitar. They met at a local watering hole with Steven not knowing what Jerry looked liked…but Steven knew instinctively by the loud voice coming from the other end of the bar. Mindset X was now complete.
During the first few sessions together the band agreed on one thing — strive to create something unique and create the music that THEY loved with hopes that others would feel the same. The wide ranging influences of each member, from progressive metal to punk, set the course for the music. Check out their record releases.
Website:Mindset X Contact:Steve@mindsetx.com
NOTEable Decades
This incredibly versatile Concord, NH band features a sizzling mix of Bass, Guitar, Keyboard, Percussion and Vocal Trio performing the music of the 1950's - 1980's. Bring back memories with the calypso sound of "Under the Boardwalk". Kick it up a notch with our 1970's Rocking tribute to ABBA featuring "Waterloo", "Mamma Mia" and "Dancing Queen". Get down with 1980's dance tunes like the whimsical "It's Raining Men", "Love Shack", "Like a Prayer" and "What's Up". NOTEable DECADES even has holiday repertoire featuring "White Christmas", "We Need a Little Christmas" and "Sleigh Ride"! With something for everybody, NOTEable DECADES is the perfect entertainment choice for your Club, Corporate Event, Wedding Reception, Private Party, Summer Concert Series or Holiday Party. Website:NOTEable Decades Contact:noteabledecades@yahoo.com
Pay the Piper
Pay the Piper is a four-piece band based out of Plymouth, NH. They have laid down their roots at Plymouth State University by playing house parties and and college events. After developing a loyal following, they have branched out to the rest of northern New Hampshire. Their influences include Led Zepplin, Bob Marley, Grateful Dead, Sublime, Nirvana and Pink Floyd, to name a few. Their sound is reggae meets rock and funk. Website:Pay the Piper Contact:paythepipermusic@hotmail.com Note: They do weddings!
Rusty Cadillacs
The Manchester-based rock band Rusty Cadillacs are the house band at Slammer's Bar in Bedford, but they can be found rocking out throughout southern New Hampshire. Their influences range from the Beatles and Aerosmith to Kiss and AC/DC. Members::
Joey "P" Fleetwood — lead vocals and guitar
Sammy Seville — bass and vocals
King Eldorado — drums and vocals
Shawn "Coupe" Deville — lead and rhythm guitar and vocals Website:Rusty Cadillacs Contact:booking@rustycadillacs.com
SOAK
Soak is a 3-piece rock/funk/jam band from the Manchester area. Their music is infused with a jazz, blues and funk sound. Influences include Led Zepplin, the Black Crowes and Primus. The chemistry between band members can be seen in their live performances. More than tight grooves, rocking rhythms and moving melodies, they do best when they make the music (whether it's a cover or an original) uniquely their own. Members::
Troy Dutton — Drums/Percussion/Vocals
Matty Jeff — Guitars/Vocals
Chris Smith — Bass Guitars/Keyboards/Vocals Website:Soak Music Contact:bookings@soakmusic.com
Southern Breeze
Lynyrd Skynyrd. Allman Brothers. Molly Hatchett. The Outlaws. .38 Special. ZZ Top, and so much more!
This Northern New England-based quintet recreates some of the finest music from the Southern Rock era and delivers it with all of the passion and energy of the original.
With a twin guitar assault, versatile vocal abilities, and a thumping rhythm section, Southern Breeze delivers fast and furious performances, cranking out the standard R&B based danceable favorites alongside the "deep cuts" of the south. And you can believe that when someone in the crowd calls for epics like "Green Grass & High Tides", "Flirtin' With Disaster" and, of course, "Freebird", you know they have a drive and the talent (and the creative license, if you will) to pull it off hands down.
Available for club dates, outdoor festivals, and private functions, these guys will play anywhere the audience wants to warm up . . . to a Southern Breeze. Website:Southern Breeze Contact:Email Southern Breeze
TREBEK
TREBEK -- featuring local guy, Jeff Brunelle -- is an award winning, (4 Worcester Music Awards in 2007, including Best Live Act) sexy and courageous blend of R&B, Rock, Punk, Reggae and Soul.
Since its inception, TREBEK has been waging a war against musical conformity. Bored with the over processed mindless drivel that fills most of modern music these days, TREBEK continues to carve out their own path in the industry. Recently the recipient of four Worcester Music Awards, (Best CD, Best Live Act, Best Rock Act, and Best Male Vocalist) TREBEK blends a wide array of musical influences. If you listen close, you will hear elements of Rock, R&B, Reggae, Punk, Soul, Metal, Blues, and Jazz. TREBEK is NOT a band, it's an EXPERIENCE.
TREBEK is not built on trends or trying to do what has been done before. Their music encompasses so many styles that they truly have a song (or style) for everyone. Just take one listen to TREBEK'S self-titled debut CD (released in November 2006) and you will see what we mean. If you like what you hear please send them a comment. TREBEK loves to hear from people who enjoy listening to their music. Website:Trebek the Band Contact:booking@trebekband.com
Vegas Temper
Formed in late 2003 Vegas Temper has emerged as one of New England's most requested rock sensations. Compared to the likes of Velvet Revolver and Stone Temple Pilots, their straight forward approach and strong rock anthems have given them a die hard following throughout the region. They have been on stage with Tantric, Shinedown, Lacuna Coil, Dropbox, Staind and many others. Their # 1 selling 2005 CD "Novocaine" continues to thrill audiences. Website:Vegas Temper Contact:info@vegastemper.com
Wicked Automatic
Wicked Automatic is an alternative rock band that hails out of Hampton Beach. The band consists of four veteran rockers, and is headed up by singer/songwriter Jonathan Anderson. In December 2006 they released a five song CD entitled "Brave New Story" which has made its way to Website:Wicked Automatic Members:
Jonathan Anderson — Singer/Songwriter
Mike O'Neil — Guitarist
John Viar - Drummer
Brian Scanlon — Bassist Contact:bookingwickedautomatic@yahoo.com
Country
Country Felix
Country Felix, who are based out of the Manchester area, performs both traditional and contemporary styles of country music. They are all about the Honky Tonk sound. The band is available for functions, parties and weddings. They are the winner of the 2008 NACMAI Traditional Band of the Year Award. Website:Country Felix Contact:bookings@countryfelix.com
High Ground
High Ground is a six-piece band performing the hottest country and most popular classic rock tunes on the charts. We take pride in our music and our live shows are a tribute to that. With our combined experience and talent, we have created a unique style that sets us apart from other bands. Our fans lay the foundation upon which we structure our music, and we are excited to have the diversity to appeal to any audience of any age.
Whether they are opening for established Nashville acts, writing original music for a new cd, or performing sold out clubs; High Ground Band is quickly becoming one of the hottest country and classic rock acts in New England. Formed and based out of central NH, each member of the band brings at least 20 years experience to the table. Website:High Ground Contact:corinaouellette@comcast.net
Jonathan Scott and the Blazing Hearts
This "NATIONAL Band of the Year" (new country), is fronted by Jonathan Scott who is the "NATIONAL Male Vocalist of the Year" and "NATIONAL Male Entertainer of the Year" (new country) (North American Country Music Association, Int'l Pigeon Forge, Tennessee).
Jonathan has won over 20 awards Nationally, Regionally, and Locally. The band has a 100% Rebooking Rate which few bands can boast of. UpBeat, Entertaining and High Energy, this group performs New Country Rock,and some Classic R&R of the 70/80's & Southern Rock plus Original tunes. Jonathan, Krista, and Nick (on lead guitar) are wireless and go right out into their audiences to add to the excitement. Having performed at National and International venues, you can catch them at NASCAR, the International Rodeo, the Hampton Beach Shell, the Harley Davidson Road Tour, the Meadowbrook U S Cellular Pravilion firing up the audience for Big and Rich, Clubs in New England, Fairs and Festivals, Concerts on the Common, Old Home Days, Grand Openings, Hotels, Ski Resorts, and many more events. Do check their myspace to hear their demo, and see their schedule. Website:Jonathan Scott and the Blazing Hearts Contact:urbanexpressprod@aol.com
The New Hampshire Rock Bottom Band
The New Hampshire Rock Bottom Band is a multi-award winning band, both locally and nationally. They were named the 2006 New Hampshire Country Music Association "Band of the Year — New Country". They went on to receive national recognition at a national competition in Pigeon Forge, TN. They were recognized by the North American Country Music Associations, International (NACMAI) in several categories, both as a group and individual members. Website:NH Rock Bottom Band Contact:info@nhrockbottomband.com
Tammy Jackson Band
Tammy Jackson and Cliff Clegg have built a solid reputation as one of the finest musical duos in the Northeast. Although they call Sunapee, NH "home," the couple have toured extensively throughout the eastern seaboard, as a duo, a trio with Wayne Brewer on pedal steel guitar, and as the front for the sensational "Tammy Jackson Band"
Cliff and Tammy's country-flavored original music is a refreshing backdrop to the eclectic collection of rock, blues, oldies and country cover tunes which they perform. Browse through our pages to learn more about the couple, their band, and their music. Website:Tammy Jackson Band Contact:tammy@cliffandtammy.com
Tom Dixon Band
The Tom Dixon Band is a country band from Londonderry, NH. Though their roots reach into the blues, rock and jazz music, they are country through and through. Tom Dixon is an award winning vocalist both locally and regionally. The band performs both cover tunes and original music. Songs such as "Keep Your Hands to Yourself" and "Chattahoochee" are often intermixed with Dixon's original songs like "One Day" during live performances. Website:The Tom Dixon Band Contact:alrightguy79@verizon.net
Blues
Brickyard Blues
Brickyard Blues has been a longtime staple of the New England music scene. They are known for playing the blues standards by blues legends including B.B. King, T-Bone Walker, Buddy Guy and even Stevie Ray Vaughn. They also throw in some classics from the Motown, Swing and Jazz music scenes. Their originals include songs like Chicken Shack Shimmy and My Mojo. Website:Brickyard Blues Contact:beefyblues@hotmail.com
Roxanne and the Voodoo Rockers
Roxanne & The Voodoo Rockers is New England's latest up and coming blues band. Their music is a blend of electric blues, R&B and swing, held together with their own touch of magic. The band is based in the Southern New Hampshire, USA and typically performs in venues throughout the New England area. Website:Roxanne and the Voodoo Rockers Contact:voodoorockers@yahoo.com
Jazz
Ameranouche
The Ameranouche Trio features guitarists Richard Sheppard, Ryan Flaherty and bassist Xar Adelberg. The nationally acclaimed Gypsy Jazz ensemble plays acoustic hot jazz, both original compositions and unique arrangements by American and Gypsy songwriters. The music is universal and reaches diverse audiences worldwide. Website: Ameranouche Contact:ameranouche@hotmail.com
Christian-Influence
Borderline Eleven
In general, Borderline Eleven is perfectly suited for concert-type settings: festivals, fairs, family/youth/school events, sporting events, and concerts. They are an original band, working their way out of doing cover tunes (save perhaps 1 or 2 that have become part of their identity) as they write, record, and release more of their own material. Their style is clean, family-friendly, alternative / punk rock Christian-influenced music.
Website: Borderline Eleven Booking:Book Borderline Eleven Contact:borderline.eleven.music@gmail.com
7th Child
Betterman's Rule
Fair Game
From Here Down
Grinning Lizards
Jamantics
Chad LaMarsh
Josh Logan 
Mama Kicks
Matt McKay
Mercuryhat
Mindset X
NOTEable Decades 
Pay the Piper
Rusty Cadillacs
SOAK
Southern Breeze
TREBEK
Vegas Temper
Wicked Automatic
Country Felix
High Ground
Jonathan Scott and the Blazing Hearts
The New Hampshire Rock Bottom Band
Tammy Jackson Band
Tom Dixon Band
Brickyard Blues
Roxanne and the Voodoo Rockers
Ameranouche
Borderline Eleven