FREE FREE FREE MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC

Today :08 transforms from one of Gainesville's most trafficked nightspots to the home of the first AM/FM Music Showcase. The About Music For Music Showcase is a music festival featuring acts by 13 of Gainesville best independent rock, folk, blues and hip-hop groups. 

"We are packing about four or five semesters of great live music into one day," says Jose Peruyero, one of the event coordinators, and singer and guitar player of local band Moodhosa. 

The event was created by Jose, Dante Lima and Marshal Patrick as an opportunity to give different genres of local music an outlet to present its talents to the community. With Gainesville's music scene focusing mostly on punk-rock, highlighted by events like The Fest and bands like Against Me!, AM/FM aims to bring attention to other genres, which Jose says don't have a real scene. "Living in Gainesville creates your music," Jose says. "We wanted to give all these hardworking musicians a place to showcase what they have been doing over the years." 

The festival has been in the works for about 4 months; when Haiti was devastated by earthquakes earlier this month, Jose, Dante and Marshal immediately decided to make the free showcase a benefit show, with any donations going to Haiti relief. "To me it was utterly shocking. Everyone was so receptive, none of bands were difficult to deal with, and they were so quick to give up money to Haitian relief," he says.  "With 13 bands, that's more than 30 to 40 people being selfless; not wanting any money and just wanting to be part of it."

The event will offer a forum for local bands, emerging musicians and fans to network and learn from each other. True to the festival's independent spirit, all the sponsorship is coming from local businesses such as Flaco's, Lipham Music, Mother's Pub & Grill, :08 and The Buzz. 

The music kicks off at 1pm and goes through 9pm with bands like Bang Bang Boom, D.P., The Footlights and Moodhosa. Jose says he's most looking forward to catching Michael Claytor & His Friends and The Haps. "If you love live music at all, if you love hanging out with people and supporting the community, this is the best place to see live music for free," Jose says. 

:08 is located at 201 W. University Ave. Admission to the all-day event is FREE. But take a few bucks for Haiti donations. For a complete lineup check out the event's Facebook page. 

-Stephanie Granada