By Crystal Thompson
The Havre High School Auditorium was rockin' as local band Blackend performed in front of a fired up crowd of high schoolers last night.
The concert was part of the week-long celebration of teens taking place in Havre this week. "Teen Week" was formed by a local committee to promote Montana's Teen Day, which was celebrated on Feb. 6. Activities throughout the week have included Teen Movie Night, Teen Ski Day and the Teen Rock Concert, which took place last night.
Teens attending last night's concert were able to aid local charities while getting a chance to jam out to Blackend's signature heavy metal style, as they were required to accompany the $1 cover charge with one non-perishable food item. Concert doors opened at 7:15 to more than 250 local teen-agers, anticipating an ear-blasting performance by Blackend.
Blackend was formed late last year, and is made up of five members: Jared Gabriel on rhythm guitar, Randy Seaberg on lead guitar, Dustin Smith on bass, Dusty Cichosz on drums and Jack Stilger on vocals. The group performs some original music, along with covers of heavy metal groups like Metallica and Black Sabbath.
Despite some technical difficulties early on in the show, (lead guitarist Randy Seaberg broke a guitar string during the opening performance), the band gave a stellar performance that kept the crowd jumping throughout the evening.
Teen week wraps up with Teen Skate Night at the Havre Ice Dome tonight from 9 to 11 p.m. for $2, which includes skate rental. Teen art is also on display at the Heritage Center until the end of the week.
