Exam Jam Strikes Back: An Interview with 90.3's Michael Smith

Blank: What is Exam Jam?

Smith: It is a benefit for 90.3 The Rock. This is our 5th Exam Jam. We do one at the end of every semester. All of our money for the radio station comes from donations and businesses. This is completely by the music department. We also do it to showcase local bands. In the past we have had Arpetrio for our first one, The Young, Fine Peduncle, Cool Runnings and Dopplegangsta did their first performance for us.

Blank: Give me the rundown.

MS: It’s at the Ciderhouse on April 28th. Doors are at 9:00 p.m. and the first band starts at 9:30. There are five bands: Wolf at the Door, Plainclothes Tracy, The Mutations, The Bad Dudes and Lil Iffy. The atmosphere is loose. It is the most fun local show to see. It is relaxed, right before exams and really kicks off the summer and the cost is about $1.00 a band.

Blank: What goes into making Exam Jam happen?

MS: It is all done by members of the music department. It is a chance for students, especially young students, to help put together an event. They set up raffles, write promos, set up the show. It’s about coming together to put on a show. It’s also great resume padding to help put on a big concert, while keeping in mind booking bands locals want to see. It’s better for us that a lot is going on that week. Bassnectar is on the 26th, Volapalooza is on the 27th and then Exam Jam on the 28th.