Never mind the mawkish name, Axis of Change, the fledgling Raleigh grassroots organization of three politically concerned locals that created the Anybody But Bush concert series. Instead, consider change the group’s sincere, sole reason for existence. Founders Brad Farran, Owen Rosenbloom and Jay Winfrey claim that their goal is to launch a series of regional events that will resonate nationally and “will help change the face of politics in this country.” And they don’t plan on doing it with rhetoric, either; in fact, Farran claims the group has no clear political orientation besides its unrest with the current administration. They hope to render change, instead, through giving people the voice via the vote: Some 35 people registered at the first show, and the second show–featuring a standout line-up highlighted by The Pink Slips and Goner–will be devoted entirely to voter registration. Proceeds from three more benefits at Kings, as well as hip-hop and alt.country showcases and an art sale, will go towards backing campaign initiatives by groups like NARAL Pro-Choice N.C., MoveOn.org, and the Environmental Protection Agency. “For me, it’s just gotten to the point where I can’t ignore it,” says Winfrey. “Now, it’s impossible to turn the other cheek.” For more info, visit www.kingsbarcade.com, www.axis-of-change.org or call 831-1005.
