2ND ANNUAL EVENT Building Flip Flop Fest: If the shoe fits the music ...

The organizer's goal? For fans to have a great day.
By JOHN BENSON
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
Inspired by feet, the Flip Flop Fest is the brainchild of Youngstown's self-described "chill music" singer/guitarist Zach Rock -- of the Zach Rock Band -- who about a year ago gazed down from the stage and saw nothing but potential.
"Basically, I looked down and the audience members there were wearing flip flops," Rock said. "I thought, if you like this style of music, sometimes your summer footwear can give that away. In other words, the shoe fits our music style."
From that point on, Rock put all his efforts into creating the inaugural Flip Flop Fest, which took place last year at the now-closed Bobby D's. The idea was to present a slew of regional bands that the Struthers native stressed had talent and performed "the relaxed, not-extreme hard rock."
The lineup
For this year's second annual Flip Flop Fest, which takes place Saturday and has been moved to the Youngstown Sports Grille in Boardman, the entertainment has been expanded. The bill features headliners Red Wanting Blue (Columbus) with Alternate Routes (Bridgeport, Conn.) and Empathy (Columbus), alongside Mahoning Valley-based acts Zach Rock Band, Via Sahara, Sonny Daze, Tomorrow's Hero and Since 86.
"The theme will be relaxed and will feature a massage tent, a tobacco hookah tent and a dunking booth, plus a putting green," Rock said. "I just wanted Flip Flop to be one of those shows in the summer where you leave saying, 'Man, what a great day.'"
It's been a relatively short ride for Rock, 23, who started playing out four years ago while he attended Youngstown State University. With a name like Zach Rock, destiny afforded him one of two careers -- middle linebacker or rock artist. So the skinny musician squeezed into any pub or bar that would have him, and Rock and his acoustic guitar quickly became known around the area.
Music became his priority over school with the release of his solo debut "Experiences" and its follow-up "The View From Here." The latter album was released as the Zach Rock Band, which is writing its next project, due out next year. In looking back over his material, Rock said the maturation is obvious.
Writing matures
"I hear a kid writing in his room," Rock said. "And with the new stuff, I hear more of a young man really expressing something. Every artist should get better with an album. The writing should always improve. Every song you write you try to be better."
Among the newer tracks are the jam-friendly "Lullabye" and the soft rocker "Turning Around," which Flip Flop Fest audience members are sure to hear.
Perhaps inspired by the Dave Matthews Band, Rock and his cohorts find they're most comfortable living within the moment.
"The high energy of a concert is what I love about it and the enthusiasm," Rock said. "Nothing beats a live show."
As for his future, Rock said music is his focus, which may take him out of Ohio sooner than later.
"You can make it out of anywhere but I believe you can improve your chances with relocation," Rock said. "I'll probably be out of here in two years ... New York City, baby."
For now, Rock's efforts are focused on the Flip Flop Fest.
XFlip Flop Fest, featuring Red Wanting Blue, Alternate Routes, Empathy, Zach Rock Band, Via Sahara, Sonny Daze, Tomorrow's Hero and Since 86, will take place Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at Youngstown Sports Grille, 7463 South Ave., Boardman. Call (888) 690-9875 for tickets.