The Incident: A fresh voice in the Sioux Falls music scene

The Incident performed a 16-song set full of original music Thursday night at Old Skoolz Wine House & Pub (www.oldskoolzsf.com), 921 E. Eighth St., in downtown Sioux Falls. The band brings a refreshing voice and alternative to a scene full of popular cover bands. The Incident are David Hatt (vocals, trumpet), Sean Egan (lead vocals, lead guitar, saxophone), Jim Kirby (rhythm guitar), Greg Hill (bass, background vocals), Lora Egan (trombone) and Mike Glau (drums). The group formed in 2010 and began playing locally in August 2011. Sean Egan describes the band's music as "skunk," or a mash of ska and punk. The Incident's material recalls the sounds of punk and ska heavyweights such as The Clash or The Mighty Mighty Bosstones but with an attitude usually associated with that hunger burning within a spirited, intimate Irish pub. It's music that's not overtly aggressive but balanced with punchy brass accompaniment. "Better Than None" is one such bright and catchy original featuring Hatt on lead vocals and solid drum fills by Glau near the closing. Sean Egan leads the band and his snarl resounds on songs such as "Building An Apocalypse" and "Staring At The Sun." "Staring" also is a song that best exemplifies how this band works together. Egan and Kirby's crisp guitar licks lead in tandem with tight flashes from the horns. Another highlight, "Cropsey," features a tin whistle solo by Lora Egan. It's those types of touches that help The Incident stand out and draw in an audience. Also worth noting is the group's originality. Of the songs performed, The Incident played one cover: "The Silver Tongued Devil And I" by Kris Kristofferson. It was a great take on an old (and somewhat obscure) country nugget. The group closed with "I Need A Beer." It was the first tune the band wrote, according to Lora Egan. Hopefully, it won't be this band's last. The Incident performs Jan. 14 at The Phoenix Lounge, 321 Willow St., Harrisburg. For information, visit www.the-incidentband.com and The Phoenix Lounge's official page on Facebook. The Incident's show was part of January Jazz, Blues & Brews @ Old Skoolz. Coming up: Geoff Gunderson, 9 p.m. Jan. 7; Abita Beer Tasting, 7 p.m. Jan. 12; Elisabeth Hunstad, 9 p.m. Jan. 13; Sena Ehrhardt, 8 p.m. Jan. 14 (tickets are $10 in advance, $12 day of show); 47Fires, 8:30 p.m. Jan. 19. For more, visit www.oldskoolzsf.com or oldskoolzsf@gmail.com.

Location:Sioux Falls