Regarded as one of the Twin Cities’ seminal and most enduring bands, The Flamin’ Oh’s are delivering some of the best shows of their storied career. Founder Robert Wilkinson – recently dubbed a modfather of the Minneapolis rock scene -- leads the five-piece ensemble, which includes the band’s longtime keyboardist Bob Burns (Jellyjacket, Supraluxe), along with guitarist Terry Isachsen (Lolo’s Ghost, Gini Dodds and the Dahliahs, et al), bassist Jenny Case (The Maneaters and founder/director of She Rock She Rock music school), and Drummer Ben Kaplan (April Fools, et al).
Formed in 1977, their first EP included “I Remember Romance,” which charted on Billboard in 1979 and remains one of the most popular songs in the band’s extensive catalog. The Oh’s were a pioneer in the early 1980s’ emerging music video industry thanks to collaboration with renowned video director Chuck Statler (DEVO, Nick Lowe, Elvis Costello, et al); airplay on MTV supported extensive national and international touring. At home, they were an anchor and mainstay at Jay’s Longhorn, the venue credited for launching Minnesota’s indie music scene. Through the years, they’ve shared the stage with Blondie, Patti Smith, Only Ones, Elvis Costello, Talking Heads and more.
“Hard edged Stones-like rock’n’roll. East Coast street anthems coupled with Midwestern optimism and enthusiasm.”
Minneapolis Star Tribune
Wilkinson remains a prolific songwriter and over the band’s four decades, the band has recorded or released 9 albums, EPs, and singles that blend rock, pop, new wave, and punk. The catalog includes the 1980 self-titled release “The Green Album”; Oh!, (1980); Love Or Money (1983 unreleased); Desire (1985); Paint The Sky (1986); Long Live the King (2005); Here and Now (2015); and a single, “Strange Times” (2020).
Today, Flamin’ Oh’s live shows are “overflowing with assurance and melodic strength that’s too rare among younger bands,” (Jim Meyer, Substack, 2024). Rapid-fire sets are filled with well-known hits, new songs, and a few satisfying, deeply-felt covers by their own music heroes. Every show is delivered with passion, energy, and tight musicianship from experienced players who remain committed to connecting with audiences and delivering joy.
“The trick isn’t just how to play rock ‘n’ roll, it’s how to be rock ‘n’ roll. And if the Flamin’ Oh’s demonstrate anything, it’s that the secret is simpler than you think …. The Oh’s endure by sticking to the basics: tunes tunes tunes played with heart heart heart.”
City Pages