Local Bands To Perform For Spring Break Shut-Ins

Ottawa, January 29, 2003 - College and university students unable to escape 
the bitter cold of winter can warm up to the sounds of Picklecatz and 
DarkStar, stalwarts of the Ottawa indie rock scene who will be teaming up on 
February 19th at Zaphod Beeblebrox. In three short weeks, hordes of students 
will be making their way southward in search of sun, fun, and an escape from 
the academic grind. But for those left behind, Zaphod's in the Byward Market 
will be turning up the heat and cranking up the tunes with two of Ottawa's 
best local bands.

Music fans can expect a memorable night as both acts kick things into a higher 
gear. "Getting a gig at Zaphod's is a definite nod from the Ottawa music 
scene," says Stephan Meyer, keyboard player and vocalist with the Picklecatz. 
"We've been working hard and intend to step things up a notch."

The performance will also mark the first time DarkStar and the Picklecatz will 
be sharing a stage together, although both bands are participating in a 
benefit for the Ottawa Humane Society in March. "We’re thrilled to have this 
chance to play at Zaphod’s," reports Julia Stark, vocalist for DarkStar, 
"[it's] a place where we’ve seen some of our favorite musicians, and with the 
Picklecatz, whose music we really respect."

Zaphod Beeblebrox is located at 27 York Street in the Byward Market. Doors 
open at 8:00pm with a $5.00 cover charge to get into the February 19th show.

Playing original rock with a dash of groove, the Picklecatz have charmed 
audiences at the Ottawa Fringe Festival and events across the city, earning 
them rave reviews. You'll find yourself tapping your feet as Picklecatz tunes 
encourage you to "get your swank on".

DarkStar, a relatively new band to the live circuit, are already making 
inroads in the Ottawa music scene. Their unusual combination of musical 
tastes and styles gives the band a unique sound that is melodic, intense, and 
decidedly rock. DarkStar, as one fan put it, "gives me hope for the future 
state of music."

Visit the Picklecatz web site at http://www.picklecatz.com

For more information on DarkStar, check them out at 
http://www.darkstaronline.ca

Zaphod Beeblebrox is also online at http://www.zaphodbeeblebrox.com