Gonzo Rock: A Tribute to Wally Gates March 20th at The EARL

Description: Friends and local musicians pay tribute to a lost friend with a night of classic rock and powerpop.


Atlanta, GA, March 1, 2010 – Musicians and friends that knew, worked, played, drank, sobered, loved,
hated, sinned and prayed with Wally Gates will pay tribute to him in the best way they know how - a night of Wally Gates’ favorite music performed live by his friends.

The performance, where proceeds will directly benefit Wally’s son, Hunter Gates Furgalack, will feature tunes from ABBA to Zeppelin played by friends and former band mates of Wally’s. Mixing up musicians from local bands, including Stovall, Summer Dare, Duke Fame, Grumpy, The Mirthmakers and many others, three new bands have been formed to play from a list of Wally’s favorite music. Kathleen Turner Overdrive and Legend of the Giant Squid, both bands that Gates served as bassist, will be contributing sets. Also performing will be life-long friend and former band pal, Dean Falcone (100 Faces), accompanying Trish Thompson, also a former collaborator of Gates.

Wally Gates, a respected and dedicated musician and producer, had made his mark in two local music scenes (New Haven, CT and Atlanta, GA). During his life, he played, produced and assisted many rock, powerpop and alt-country bands in both cities, most notably 100 Faces (New Haven), Kathleen Turner Overdrive and Loudflower (Atlanta). Gates battled depression for many years before taking his own life in December 2009.

The show will begin at 8:30pm at the EARL, on March 20, 2010. Tickets are $7.00 and can be purchased in advance through Ticket Alternative. Donations can be made through PayPal by sending gifts to gonzorockgates@yahoo.com.

Contact Information:
Trish Thompson 404-202-7838 or Ed Burdell 678-794-9359 Event Website: www.myspace.com/wallygates