Posted March 27, 2008
By RDaniels

For Hightide Blues, rock n’ roll is all about balance. Formed in 2006 at Auburn University, the quartet has been trying to make it work for two years. With all the members finishing their degrees, HTB has struggled to balance college and music careers. Their balancing act has paid off, as HTB’s lined up over 200 shows this year in the Southeast. Members Paul McDonald (vocals/guitar), Jonathan Pears (guitar/harmonica), Scotty Rollins (drums) and Phillip Gayle (bass) come together to create some energetic rock, dashed with blues and a little bit of country. Toe-tapping tracks are accented with a strong electric sound from Pears; especially on the new track “Katie, Can You Hear Me?” HTB attracts a frat-boy crowd, as the band frequently plays Greek functions. The group, however, is not limited to house parties and bars. HTB has shared the stage with national acts Sister Hazel, Sara Bareilles and The Whigs. Recording in Nashville has had a lasting impression on the group, as their new material sports an alt-country vibe. HTB’s new album, recorded at the famous House of David studio, comes out March 29.

Hightide Blues The Esso Club Clemson March 28 11 p.m. (864) 654-5120 www.myspace.com/hightideblues