When it comes to musical concert showcases on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, local performers are often overshadowed by visiting acts, outside names and tribute performers.
But you can't get more local than the upcoming concert bringing together the Star Captains, Jason Mitchell and Their There, at Coast Capital Playhouse Saturday, March 3 (doors open 7 p.m.).
Guitarist Jim Black's compelling `70s soul and funk-inspired Star Captains had an early baptism by fire in White Rock through extended residencies at the Marine Drive venue formerly known as Sideshows West Coast Grill.
The musicians in the fresh-sounding six-piece alternative rock group Their There met and began performing together while still at at Earl Marriott Secondary, drawing Elgin Park trumpeter Rory Hislop.
And talented singer-songwriter Jason Mitchell – though he now divides his time mainly between Vancouver and Kelowna – grew up in White Rock and established a loyal fan base here.
The mix promises to be a memorable evening, demonstrating, once and for all, that local talents are more than strong enough to carry their own shows.
"We're offering a friendly challenge to support people who are trying to make a difference," said Black, giving full credit to show producer Phil Davey.
"Phil is the one who made this happen," he said. "He's the one who's been relentless in getting young bands out there and known."
Black noted the show's multi-generational appeal.
"When I was a kid, I was listening to Jason and other people on the White Rock scene like Cozy Bones, and I remember first meeting and talking with the guys from Their There when they were still in high school.
"The Star Captains are opening for Their There at my request – I really like their music and we have a lot of friends that overlap."
Black said it is exciting for the Star Captains to be playing again in White Rock – particularly as the band has a new album in the works with a sound that is making increasing use of synthesizers and the haunting voice of lead singer NaRai Dawn.
"All the songs are coming off the new album," he said.
"I think Their There is in the same boat – in fact I believe both bands will be taking the proceeds of the concert to add a few finishing touches to the recordings."
While the Star Captains' sound has been described in many ways, Black acknowledges there is an underlying jazz sensibility.
"The word jazz gets thrown in there a lot. For our generation, people don't get it, but you can't get away from the fact that the harmonizing and chords are advanced and there is some pretty sophisticated improvisation going on, even though there's still the soul of R&B.
"We've been described as indie jazz fusion and I like that. On the indie side, I think we have that edge, but fusion is a great word for us."
Tickets ($17) are available from the Coast Capital box office (604-536-7535) or online at www.whiterockplayers.ca