Music: Winterfest 2008

n 2006, Cincinnati Punk Pop band Close to Home lost their original bassist, Bradly Andress, to cancer. The band was just getting started and already garnering national attention when Andress passed away but the band vowed to not let their dreams die with

Dec 2, 2008 at 2:06 pm

In 2006, Cincinnati Punk Pop band Close to Home lost their original bassist, Bradly Andress, to cancer. The band was just getting started and already garnering national attention when Andress passed away but the band vowed to not let their dreams die with their friend.

Close to Home threw itself head-first into touring, averaging about 250 shows a year, while their independent albums, including this year’s Standby, have moved many units (the band has done especially well in Japan). The band has done some work raising money for cancer research (they’re celebrity spokesmen for “Sexy Hair Concepts,” which has assisted in the cancer awareness/eradication efforts), so it’s clear that no matter how far they go in their career Andress’ sprit will always be a big part of the band.

The band headlines this Friday’s Winterfest 2008 show at the Madison Theater. The massive, all-ages event starts at 4:30 p.m. and features oodles of local bands, including Bottom Line, The Upset Victory, Black Veil Brides and many, many others. $8. Get details, buy tickets and find nearby bars and restaurants here.