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Dark Water Rebellion's Comeback: A Swamp Rock Revival in Cleveland

Update Dark Water Rebellion Returns to the Stage in Cleveland After five years abroad, the Cleveland swamp rock group Dark Water Rebellion is set to electrify the local music scene once again with their first performance on October 29 at the Beachland Tavern. Drummer Danielle Gorcie and guitarist Brent Gorcie, who are also a couple, reflect on their extensive journey from small venues to global exposure, returning now to reconnect with their roots in Cleveland. A Long and Winding Path Back Home The Gorcies's odyssey began in Florida, where they first met while Brent was bartending at a music club. While both were involved in separate bands, their passion to work together ignited the formation of Dark Water Rebellion. Their journey took them from Florida to Southern California, living life on the road in a converted Greyhound bus, performing nearly 300 shows in a single year. However, the adventure met an abrupt pause when an accident sidelined their bus amid the stunning landscapes of Montana, ultimately prompting them to re-establish roots in Cleveland. Here, they found a vibrant independent music scene that allowed them to flourish and refine their unique sound, described as "Delta blues-meets-Nick Cave's Grinderman." This marks a significant pivot for the band, as they bring experiences and influences from the international music scene back to their hometown. The Journey Abroad and New Beginnings Following the pandemic, the duo relocated to London to pursue new opportunities, where Danielle completed her master’s degree in entertainment law. Working for Warner Music UK connected her with legendary catalogs, but the couple yearned for the thrill of live performances and collaboration with other local artists. “We weren’t playing music,” Danielle remarked, emphasizing their desire to dive back into the live scene—which is why they ultimately made the decision to return to Cleveland. Their re-emergence indicates not just a personal journey, but also a reinvigoration of the local music landscape. What to Expect at the Beachland Tavern Concert The upcoming show at Beachland Tavern promises a special reunion for both the band and the local community. Joined by bassist Fabian Abarca from Washington, D.C., the band aims to deliver an engaging performance that reflects not only their old favorites but also the new material that has been brewing during their time abroad. Supporting acts will include The Faraways, with sets spun by D-Rock in between. The concert, beginning at 8 p.m., signals a chance for fans to rekindle their connection with the band while witnessing the evolution of their sound, enriched by unforgettable international experiences. Anticipation for Future Releases As the Gorcies prepare to return to the stage, they’re also looking to the future. Dark Water Rebellion has teased about new songs potentially slipping into their setlist for the Halloween gig. With the exciting collaboration planned with Daddy G of the iconic trip-hop group Massive Attack on their new album, a fresh chapter for the band is on the horizon. “We’re really motivated now,” says Danielle. “We have lost songs and a lost music video that we plan to release.” This ambition is a testament to their revival and demonstrates a desire to fully engage with their audience once more, not just as performers but as artists with a story to tell. Conclusion: Why This Matters to Local Music Lovers For fans in Cuyahoga Falls and beyond, the return of Dark Water Rebellion isn’t merely about one show; it represents a rekindling of community spirit and a celebration of creativity. The Cleveland music scene has long thrived on stories of collaboration, resilience, and the merging of experiences, making this performance a highly anticipated event for those eager to support local artists. As we celebrate their return, let’s take the opportunity to invest in local music culture and reconnect with the talents that continue to define our artistic landscape.