Ashbury set to perform at opening of new all-ages Vegas venue

They've played Giants Stadium with Bon Jovi, recently recorded an EP with a big-name producer, Lou Giordano, who has worked with the likes of the Goo Goo Dolls, Jewel and Plain White T's and now they're set to open a new all-ages venue here in town. Singer Brian Lee keeps us up to date on all things Ashbury.

What does Ashbury sound like?

"Ashbury sounds like some of the more modern bands like Fall Out Boy, but the music is a little deeper and appeals to a broader audience. The vocals stand out, the songs are poppy, the choruses are huge and there's a guitar solo wherever one fits."

You played Giants Stadium opening for Bon Jovi. What was that like?

"The sheer size of the stadium and the volume of the crowd is what sticks out the most. Playing in a venue like that is comparable to something like the coliseum in 'Gladiator.' Having that many people's attention feels empowering. It's almost a ritualistic experience to stand in front of 50,000 people and be the focus of their lives, at that moment. I think because we had played the MGM Grand with Bon Jovi just a couple months previously, and we subsequently played a few other big shows in Vegas, we were fortunate enough to not be on edge at Giants Stadium. We all felt at home onstage."

What's the best and worst thing about being in a band with your bassist brother, Jeremy?

"We get along really well, and because we were the first two members of the band, it kind of set a precedent for the relationship among the members collectively. We're around each other all the time, especially on tour, and surprisingly, it has never really taken a toll on all of us. As cheesy as it sounds, this band has really become a family. It's nice for everyone in the band to trust and respect each other."

You're playing the new all-ages venue The Farm during its grand opening this weekend. Why do you think all-ages venues have such a hard time staying open in Vegas?

"Vegas, especially in recent years, has really prioritized the adult crowd. I think the fact that everything is open 24 hours, and liquor is sold at every corner seven days a week caters to the adult crowd even more. It makes it hard to get around the politics and provide a good location where parents are comfortable dropping off their kids. I believe a lot of a venue's success relies on the convenience of its location. The places where venues have seen moderate success are the places that are not in the middle of downtown Las Vegas. This is a town based on adult-generated revenue, and honestly, there aren't a whole lot of businessmen or politicians looking out for the younger crowd. There isn't enough money in it for them. Until someone really steps it up, I think it will always be that way."

See Ashbury at 6 p.m. Saturday at The Farm, 5597 S. Rainbow Blvd. Call 233-3276.

Contact reporter Jason Bracelin at jbracelin@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0476.