The Embers Vital statistics: Alt-country outfit, headed by Cameron Ember with vibrating vocals and a dark banjo (is that possible?) against Melody Paine's basslines. Guitarist and lap-steel aficionado, Michael Papenburg, has played with Penelope Houston, The Mad Cattle Ensemble, Lilyvolt, Orange, Missile Harmony, Matt Nathanson, and David Hopkins. Drummer Anthony Koutsos has also worked with Sea Creature, Ocean8, Dart, Wade, and, of course, The Red House Painters. As favorites of local bar, Hotel Utah, these sadcore junkies are like the other Junkies, full of shimmering red-desert steels, brushed snares, and a bass as low as the mood. Current status: Excellent three-song demo available. Just finished recording a live CD and will be shopping for labels. Make contact: Website plans are underway. In the meantime, people can inquire at cameron8@earthlink.net.