July 4, 1996. The people of 1502 Napoleon Road in Bowling Green commemorated the 220th birthday of the United States of America with "The Family Farmhouse Fiasco," a memorable outdoor show that featured bands playing on the roof and all the expected peripheral mayhem. I played at this show (either in Assignment Moongirl or as Brownout--I can't remember which), but Spaceship 9's Geoff "Geo" Grant has clearer memories:
This show was semi-legendary for so many reasons and the first and last time I ever played on the roof of something. it was held at the recently re-located "Peace House" and we brought Michael O'Brien and Blake Methena with us for maximum rhythm. Probably our best show. I can remember setting up my gazillion effects pedals along the corner of the roof, mainly to make sure I didn't venture past them and fall into the crowd. This day our Gong cover of "Fohat Digs Holes in Space" was epic as the 3-piece percussion pushed everything to new highs. I also want to note that this was also one of the first times Hal Hixson played his solo material during a separate set which really hinted to the singer-songwriter genius he was soon to become.
The Spaceship 9 was a flashback to early 70's progrock (a la Hawkwind, Gong and Magma) and we were weird as the day is long, but always with a smile. We were never going to be that band that set everyone on their ear, but the talent that spread from it is note-worthy. Matt has had an amazing run in Portland with the semi-legendary band Drats as well as Lord Master. Hal's solo career and time with bands like The Savages (which I was so lucky to be involved in) as well as his newest project Old Hundred deserves mention. And Anthony Buehrer helped form Aloha, one of finest BG bands of all time. Mike Pennington was a solid bass-player and a creative force. While he may not be involved in music any more, he was one half of Sweatpants which produced a great BG underground recording.
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