Outlaws manager Candy says the Vancouver rock bar doesn’t want to be known as just a Top 40 club

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON JULY 5, 1985

By Steve Newton

“Outlaws doesn’t want to be known as just a Top 40 club,” says Candy, manager of the Georgia Street cabaret. This week he proved his point, showcasing five original bands.

On Monday the headliners were Poisoned, with guests One Fell Swoop, and on Tuesday Seattle’s Rangehoods were backed by the Promises. The Hurt opened both nights.

The move to original music was actually the first instalment of Outlaws’ “In Concert” series, which will be taking place the first Monday and Tuesday of each month during the summer.

While just two nights looks miniscule compared to the support clubs like the Railway and Savoy give local talent, it is a step in a nice direction.

And considering Outlaws’ size and drawing power, even two nights a month is a welcome boost to Vancouver’s burgeoning original scene.

Depending on the reaction from Outlaws’ patrons, non-cover bands may become more of a fixture.

Candy promises that, “if a band goes over really well we’ll probably bring them in for the first part of the week, or even the whole week. That way they’ll have the opportunity to play to a different crowd.”

But will Outlaws’ clientele accept a band that plays tunes they haven’t heard before?

“Oh yeah, sure they will,” claims Candy, “it’s a nice change for them.”