Kindiefest 2010: Rocknoceros

I'm pretty sure that even though the main room at Littlefield for Kindiefest was reasonably full for the Saturday showcase by DC-area band Rocknoceros, it was probably one of the least crowded shows for the band. It typically sells out its weekly shows at Jammin' Java. So even though their set was a bit shortened by some technical difficulties, and they didn't have nearly the number of preschoolers bopping around as they typically do, they put on a good show. I was particularly struck by the economy of motion of the band, particularly Coach Cotton, who was always right on time with the percussive accents. They're, like, the Spoon of kids music.

Rocknoceros - "Texas" (Live at Kindiefest 2010) [YouTube]

Rocknoceros - "Pink" (Live at Kindiefest 2010) [YouTube]

Comments

[Jack]

+1 for the Spoon reference. I love Rocknoceros!!!

[neighbor]

Not the friendly neighborhood band that we embraced anymore. I guess with all the fame that comes with venues like KindieFest, our local kids band forgot how they got where they are -- through us, their neighbors, who spread the word. Now you're lucky if you get a "hello." Oh well... maybe they'll move to Texas.

[Coach]

To the anonymous poster above, I'm sorry if we missed a chance to say HELLO recently. We do our best to share a high-five, laugh or story with our friends at shows, playgrounds, grocery stores, or wherever we might run into them. We are acutely aware of the support we've received from the immediate community in NOVA, and being products of the region we do our best to give back by playing many benefits each year (my sister coordinates RELAY for LIFE cancer benefits annually) and by donating regularly to silent auctions. In no way have we forgotten why we've come this far (though we are far from famous), and it's an honor and a privilege to sing for a living.

Regarding Texas, I have lots of family in Texas and would love to be closer to them, but it's likely not in the cards any time soon. Sad, because I miss them.

Hope you'll return to the Rocknoceros community some time...

all the best,Coach

[Shannon]

I have never seen a bad show, and I love the way they throw great rock songs in (Beatles, Talking Heads..) the set for parents, in such a way that it gives my kids a music appreciation moment. I am always surprised that they recognize my kids as they age! Fan. No, Superfan.

[David]

I have been to numerous Rocknoceros shows recently (at least 7 within the last 4 weeks). After each and every show the band came out when they were done playing and interacted with the fans until every single person had left the venue. This band consists of the most genuine, good-hearted people that I have had the pleasure of interacting with. To top it all off: their music ROCKS!!!! This band is the real deal.

[Amy]

I have been impressed with how friendly and engaging every member of Rocknoceros has been with fans of all ages. They remember my kids names and favorite songs and give them shout outs during shows. They play happy birthday for kids birthdays.

[Jesi]

So not true "neighbor"! I live in Maryland and have seen them twice now and they have been fantastic both times. They are very friendly and made an effort to interact with the kids and hung around to chat after. I have absolutely no complaints....well maybe one, they wont be back in my area until December!

[Leigh]

While we are all entitled to an off day, I trust that the comment is not in reference to any non-performance time where an encounter with the men who are Coach, Williebob, or Boogie would have been made...although you would never have received a scowl (it's not in their nature), private time is private time and each of these guys have families of their own.

That being said, I have seen the fellows of Rocknoceros in many different venues in many different season across their homebase area, and as recently as two weeks ago. They always take the time to visit with the kids who linger after a gig - high-fives and handstamps all around, marveling over gifted artwork, and embracing any wee folk who needs a hug. There's a reason little fans come decked out in rock-alike gear. Rocknoceros is not only a local band, they are local guys who grew up here and value their audience as friends. I don't care how big they get, they'll always be *our* Rocknoceros.

[Mitchell & Dylan's mom]

We LOVE Rocknoceros. My kids, my husband, and I have all really enjoyed Rocknoceros since our first introduction more than 3 years ago. With each song, concert, and CD, the band continues to outdo themselves and show that they have what it takes to consistently keep and expand their fan base - even as preschoolers become grade schoolers. Their lyrics are educational at times and always fun and catchy. I was really surprised to read the comment from "Jack" above as we continue to appreciate how friendly all of the band members are. No matter how much time passes in between when we see them, they always remember our names and appreciate the support of all of their fans. No matter how busy, they always take the time to talk to the kids after the show and Willie Bob gives handstamps to anyone who wants one. There are no kids bands or performers who care as much about their fans - young and old as Rocknoceros. We wish them continued success and are glad that they are expanding nationally so more people can benefit from their entertainment. WE LOVE ROCKNOCEROS!!

[Donna Shimshi]

I can't imagine what experience the "neighbor" above had that led to this spiteful comment. My children and I have been regular attendees at Rocknoceros' local shows for nearly 3 years, and they have without fail been as friendly as can be! All 3 musicians take the time to chat with fans after shows, and a smile and wave from Coach is the norm when he recognizes his "regulars." We love them and know that no matter how well known they get nationally they will always be our friendly neighborhood band!

[Alexa]

I am sorry you had that experience, Jack, but my experiences with the band could not be more opposite. I am always so pleasantly surprised at how all the guys greet my kids by name and ask about things in their lives. They have, on numerous occasions, stayed after a show to let my son see the instruments, take photos together and chat about his new sister, etc. I think they are an AMAZING group of guys (and their music isn't half bad either!) :)

As far as we are concerned, we LOVE Rocknoceros!

[Kat Clifford]

Rocknoceros is an AMAZING band! We are truly amazed by their talent and their LOVE for what they do! They are nothing, but friendly and they are so good about remembering names and thanking their audience. This past May, Rocknoceros helped us raise over $11,000 for SIDSMA in a benefit concert (Rocknoceros Rocks Out For Kylie Xiu) in memory of our daughter Kylie Xiu who died tragically of SIDS. Rocknoceros even came up with the idea of having a "charity of the month" and gave proceeds to SIDSMA from their cd sales. This band definitely pays it forward...we are thankful for these great musicians who have helped out our cause. ROCKNOCEROS ROCKS!!!!

[Mom of 2 Rockin Boys]

Wow the neighbor really doesn't know Rocknoceros very well at all. They make it a point to greet each of my boys 2 and 4 at every show we attend and even remember our whole families names. I don't know any other group out there that does that. I am so thankful for having 3 men be such great role models to my little guys who adore them and now LOVE music. Could you really ask for more??

[Monica]

The members of this band always take the time for my son. They are gracious and have made a true impression.

[Deborah Saxon]

I think the outpouring of comments here speaks for itself. Rocknoceros rocks. The music is great, their shows are entertaining, the band members--Coach, Boogie and Willie Bob--serve as fantastic role models to our children, and as far as I'm concerned they represent the best of kid culture--forget about geography. We had them come to my kid's pre-school last year and when they heard it was a school, they offered us a great discounted rate. While most of the kids at our school are pretending to be Star Wars characters, my son is pretending to be Coach Cotton leading the band, playing music and writing songs. I see the Playhouse Disney stuff and various groups perform in person and on TV, and I wonder why they have reached such acclaim when their talents don't come close to what Rocknoceros provides. Thanks to the band and all their fans who turned us on to them!