December 10, 2024

Crab Apple Lane wins competition, will open for Volapalooza

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Crabapple Lane Alyssa White/TNJN

Taylor Kress performs bluesy renditions.
Alyssa White/TNJN

On April 11 in the Alumni Memorial Building some of Knoxville’s local bands battled to see which of the six would be opening for this year’s Volapalooza at the Thompson Boling Arena.  All six played a 15-20 minute set to try and win the votes of the audience and judges. In the end Crab Apple Lane claimed the win and will be Volapalooza’s opening band.

Audience members could vote for whomever they believed should win at any time before, during or after the show. Each band had their share of long time groupies.

“I was impressed with all of the musicians that showed up,” said Keith Thomas, sports management major at UT. “They were very talented.  My own personal preference was Ran$om because he is a fraternity brother of mine, and I am very proud of him, so I am hoping he wins.”

In the end it was Crab Apple Lane that won over both the audience and judges. Crab Apple Lane’s lead singer Deena Robbins was in awe. “I thought it was a practical joke! I couldn’t believe it,” said Robbins.

Overall, Robbins wants to thank the fans. “Day in, day out you guys are all amazing,” said Robbins. “You all keep us going! You come to the no-show Podunk shows that we do and are there no matter what.  We owe it all to you guys for sure.”

Volapalooza will be Friday, April 25 at the Thompson Boling Arena. Fitz and the Tantrums will be headlining. Tickets can be purchased online or at the central ticket office in the University Center.

Edited by Jessica Carr