Local rockers John Henry & the Engine will celebrate a record release with a few shows tonight at Vintage Vinyl and Friday at Off Broadway.

The Engine is releasing a 7″ vinyl EP, I Don’t Wanna Know, on Hometone records. They have also been releasing a new song each week on their MySpace.

The St. Louis quintet has been steadily gaining steam on their mini tours with their winning blend of roots rock, classic country and Americana.

“We’re proud of being from here we’ve soaked in a lot of the rootsy music,” said Henry, who formed the band in college at Mizzou. “Our sound is reflective of the city.”

Since forming in 2004, they have averaged over 100 shows a year, including a coveted slot at a Barack Obama campaign rally last year. (They let Obama go last.)

Extra curricularly, Henry is a co-partner of Columbia’s Bluebird Music and Arts Fest. The multi-club festival takes place the nights of October 16 & 17. Looks like a great time if you can make the drive.

“The logistics are very challenging,” Henry said of the festival, now in its second year. “5,500 people showed up last year. We have no manual on how to do it, so it’s all trial and error. Some hotels gave us great deals and everyone chipped in on sponsoring. It’s a one of a kind event for Columbia.”

John Henry & the Engine
7 pm tonight, Vintage Vinyl In-Store
8 pm Friday, Vinyl Release Party at Off Broadway
Oct. 16 & 17, Bluebird Music and Arts Festival

http://www.myspace.com/johnhenryandtheengine

Photo by Brian Cummings