WBRU Dunkin’ Donuts Summer Concert Series Artist #2: Torn Shorts

This Friday evening, head down to Waterplace Park (for real this time… the weather is looking nice, sunny and warm), grab a ‘Gansett, and catch the soulful, bluesy folk rock group Torn Shorts.  These Rhode Island locals have been making waves with their foot-stomping jam sessions, and will put on a live show you don’t want to miss. Josh Grabert, who hails from the East Bay, started work on a solo studio project in 2010 after a couple years playing with his previous band Gamblin’ Hands.  While on the one-man-band grind, he put out a demo called Life on a River that was featured on Rhode Island Public Radio.  However, Grabert wanted some company, and their new debut Through the Mill features what is now the full line up of Torn Shorts. More than just wise, witty, and good-looking, the members of Torn Shorts are multi-talented in the fullest sense of the word.  While Grabert is strumming away on his guitar, wailing on the harmonica, stomping on his kick drum and singing, you’ll see Zach Zarcone, former drummer, on bass–Nick Molak, former bassist, on guitar–and Brendan Thompkins being a general badass on the drums. Through the Mill was mixed and mastered by John Mailloux (Dispatch & State Radio, Guster).  Being the hip guys that they are, they funded the album’s printing and distribution through a super-successful Kickstarter campaign.  Their irresistible charm netted them almost 150% of their initial goal, so they were able to put extra money into band swag and the production of some sweet live videos.  Recently, the band has been touring all throughout New England, playing just as well in living rooms as they do in huge venues opening for national acts that come through Providence. This spring, Torn Shorts faced stiff competition at WBRU’s annual Rock Hunt.  Making their way to the finals along with Brother Kite, Kid Mountain, and Lolita Black, they rocked the house and won over the crowd and judges with their smooth chords, sincere lyrics, and animated improv jamming.  You can hear ’em on 95.5, but don’t miss this local gem playing live: after our Union Station Brewery Preparty, head over to Waterplace Park and Torn Shorts will rock your socks off!  Although with a forecast of 78 degrees and sunny, you might be able to rock the flip flops. Friday. 7:30. FREE. Awesome. Here’s Torn Shorts’ “Life on a River” played live.