It's been one year since Epic Music opened its doors, and the store is looking to celebrate.
The store is hosting an anniversary concert at Tempe Center for the Arts on Saturday, June 14. The night is set to feature local bands Tricus, St. Madness, Jerry Robison, and Death Awaits, many of which are regulars at Epic Music. Buying a ticket to the show automatically enters you in a raffle to win a Dean guitar, as well as a Dunlop Crybaby wah pedal.
The artists playing alternate between rich classic rock and metal. Bands Tricus and Death Awaits contain elements of darker rock and thrash, reminiscent of Rob Zombie and Slayer.
The stores' owners, George Contreras and Lorraine Guier, had the dream of opening a music store that could be more friendly and accommodating than what you might find at a local Guitar Center.
"We're a ma-and-pa shop. We give far better service and when you walk in, we take care of you," Contreras says. "We talk to you, we acknowledge you, we find out what you're looking for and we help you the best that we can."
The store is located off North 83rd Avenue. and West Encanto Boulevard, just down the road from Ak-Chin Pavilion.
Beyond the store's anniversary, Contreras says that it's important to promote Arizona's local musicians. He says he seeks to create symbiotic relationships with bands: If they support his store, he'll support their music.
"We really push and support the local bands," Contreras says. "So, hey, come on down to Epic Music, make us your go-to store, and we'll do our part to push and promote your band."
The anniversary show will double as the store's grand opening, with 200 people expected.
Tickets can be purchased at Epic Music and Tempe Center for the Arts for $15.
The Epic Music Store one-year anniversary party takes place on Saturday, June 14, at Tempe Center for the Arts.
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