Pepper: ‘Back Home in Kona Town’

Big Island bred Pepper will be making its way back home for a live concert performance, presented by Kona Brewing Company at its Brewhouse Oasis on Saturday, June 20.

The concert, being dubbed by Kona Brewing as “Back Home in Kona Town,” will feature guitarist and vocalist Kaleo Wassman, bassist and vocalist Bret Bollinger, and drummer Yesod Williams, who formed their band in Kailua-Kona.

In 1997, the trio combined their talents to create a mix of rock “shock ah flare” with mellow island rhythm roots to create sound like no other. With a mix of luring tunes that are pleasing to all walks of life, Pepper also knows rhythm that leads to non-stop movement.

Prior to leaving the Big Island for San Diego, Calif. to pursue their first studio release, “Give’n It,” the group played at house parties and in garages, not knowing they would soon be blaring from speakers all over the country.

The last time Pepper was at Kona Brewing was when the venue was much smaller and the company was much younger, according to General Manager Shane Johnson.

“We’re really stoked to kick off the summer with such a special concert for our Big Island community,” said Johnson. “There’s really no better band to do that, so we’re excited to welcome Pepper: Back Home to Kona Town.”

Big Island bands The Steppas and The Darkroom are scheduled to open the show, and Oahu’s Ikena Du Pont & The Pocket Band will also perform prior to Pepper’s headlining act.

Two tickets levels are available for the Saturday performance: a VIP access package that includes early entry, two drink vouchers, pre-concert pupus, and a commemorative concert poster for $59. General admission tickets cost $39.

Entry will begin at 5:15 p.m. for VIP ticket holders, and at 6 p.m., general admission ticket holders can join in.

Tickets can be purchased online at the Kona Brewing Company website or in person at Soundwave Music, Kiernan Music in Kainaliu, Oshima’s Surf & Skate in Lanihau Center, CD Wizard in Hilo, and at the Kona Brew Pub.