A Fanned Flame: The Rise of Pocatello’s Underground Music Scene

Southeast Idaho is experiencing an interesting development. With more people moving to Idaho, generally Southeast Idaho and more businesses coming in. There are more opportunities popping up everywhere. In one specific place, however, it looks like a past culture is rearing its head back up. Hopefully (and it does seem to be looking so) the people who are connected and in charge of this scene will be able to continue this movement and make the right decisions to make the culture stronger and better than before.

The place and crew are Sixes LLC. Since moving to the new building on Yellowstone Ave after a fire wrecked their last shop. Owners Josh Pohlman and Kaitlin Johnson have been doing a great job supporting local artists and bands. They have also been able to bring to Pocatello bands that are touring and are on the rise. This venue features mostly heavy metal and punk acts, but it's a great start in reviving Pocatello's older venues. Plus, after a small foul-up with the Papa Roach tour at Pourtenuf Apethieater last year, Sixes is in a really good position to thrive.

Now just like every other venue that starts up Sixes is still growing. They are fleshing out the identity of what kind of venue they are and how best to plan and prepare themselves for upcoming shows. It is great to see our local community supporting Sixes and helping them in gaining equipment and software to better the experience in their space. Every time I go over there I am pleasantly impressed with the upgrades they are able to install in their building. I am really happy to see the hard work paying off as well. Within this and last month Sixes has been able to garner a really decent audience for their shop.

I had the pleasure of taking some photos of some really great upcoming and rising bands, and what a great opportunity it was as well. This was where I got to see the potential and future Sixes can become. The artists that really stood out that night were Fall of Fathome and Immurge. And if Sixes can continue to bring bands like this I see Sixes growing and thriving into a great venue and making itself a staple in the music community becoming similar to Berkeley's venue 924 Gilmar, or The Crocodile in Seattle, or even like First Avenue in Minneapolis.

Shows like the two I witnessed are a great thing to be able to witness in town. I think the only complaint I have currently is the size of the building. Right now, it's basically a big garage. It seems to be a tad small at the moment. And I have been hearing rumors that Josh and Kaitlin are currently looking for a bigger and better place so they can set up better events, while keeping their current building open more for the art community. But that is just here to say as of the moment, but I would be lying if I wasn’t hoping it to be true. I think it would be a great opportunity and boost for Pocatello especially since Idaho Falls opened up the event center.

Overall I’m rooting for the Sixes' success, great opportunities, and local support. I see a great future for the city of Pocatello and a helping hand for Pokey's music culture. With my support, I believe Sixes has the potential to create a positive ripple effect, benefitting not just the music industry of Pocatello, but also the entire community.

Check Out Sixes LLC and crew on their social media

Instagram:

@sixescreative

Josh Pohlman-@lurk_nasty

Kaitlin Johnson-@katlinj24

Henry Darrow-@henryaarondarrow78