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"Touring Helps Give Vago a Tighter Bond" by Niz Proskocil


Jan. 4--Whether rocking the fans at Rosenblatt Stadium or helping raise money for a local homeless shelter, the members of Omaha band Vago had a busy 2006.

The rock trio opened for national band Yellowcard during opening day festivities at the College World Series in June, which was among the band's career highlights.

"Honestly, it was better than we thought it would be," said Vago guitarist-vocalist Daniel Burns. "Fans who were there were very receptive."

Vago, which also features bassist Tom Burns and drummer Lee Gambrel, expects an equally enthusiastic response to its new album, which the group recently finished recording at Omaha's Bassline Studio.

"Over Moons and Heavy Arms" is due by spring and is Vago's first full-length CD. The band's debut recording was 2004's "Mariachi" EP.

Burns, who studied violin at age 4 before taking up guitar in his teens, said the new CD is a more mature, cohesive effort than the band's previous work.

"It's a lot more of a record this time instead of a collection of songs," he said. "It's more wide-ranging. The songwriting is better. It's a little more eclectic."

New songs range from the heavy to the mellow and include some "pop-y stuff," Burns said.

New material will make up a large part of the band's concert Friday at the Saddle Creek Bar. The 21-and-older show also includes local bands Civicminded and Vinnie Bronx.

Since forming in 2002, Vago has seen a boost in exposure, in part because of a presence on college radio stations and opening slots with national artists, including Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers.

In addition to his growth as a songwriter, Burns said all the stage time has helped the band's live show evolve.

"We don't have to try as hard. The energy comes a lot more naturally now," he said. "The band chemistry is the best it's ever been."