Queen tribute band has local roots

SANDPOINT — This weekend marks The Hive's fourth annual Nearly New Years Weekend.

Presented by Mountain West Bank, they've got a real treat in store for everyone Saturday, Dec. 27, with Champions Under Pressure taking the stage.

Those who attend will see an electrifying celebration of one of the greatest rock bands in history: Queen. This premier tribute act has been in the making more than a year of dedicated rehearsal and they are ready to deliver the ultimate Queen experience; four-part harmonies, soaring guitar solos and unforgettable anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody," "We Will Rock You" and "Somebody to Love." This isn't just another tribute show, it's a full concert production with costume changes, spot-on musicianship and the powerhouse energy that made Queen legendary. 

"This energetic show pulls no punches and never takes a break," Hive general manager Mack Deibel said. "Come ready to break free, and remember a time when rock gods ruled and loud guitars were everywhere. This four-piece will rock your socks off."

Led by Aaron Birdsall fronting the band as "Freddie Mercury" who grew up and went to school in Sandpoint for eight years, sang in the SHS Choir and performed in bands. Birdsall has made a great career out of music from touring the world to working as a sound designer for films and being nominated for Grammys. He hopes to see a recent project nominated for an Oscar as well.  

Birdsall's bandmates are made up of some of the most talented in the Inland Northwest with Rick Hiller, Zack Cooper and Court Saunders

The doors to the Hive will open at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27. Kevin Dorin will open the night at 7:30 p.m. and the main show will go on at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale for $30 (plus taxes and fees) or just $30 at the door.