Virgin Millionaires, X-Ray Roger Jimmy, Stereo Deluxe, Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band
New Year’s Eve Rock ’N’ Roll Ball
Hyatt Regency
Sunday, Dec. 31

The Rock ’N’ Roll Ball at the Hyatt Regency rang in the New Year in nearly 2,007 different ways. There were at least that many people in attendance, along with a balloon drop, comedian Scott Long, at least one engagement (congratulations Sarah and Gary) and a fantasy casino. People wore everything from Colts jerseys to sequined dresses. However, there was no doubt that the focus of the evening was on music. DJ Brian Jackson and the performing bands spread over three floors as music echoed throughout the hotel.

The Virgin Millionaires played to a huge, appreciative crowd. Carl Storie and his band commanded the Regency ballroom for the night. The room and the dance floor were constantly full of adoring fans, making it clear why Storie is an icon in the Indianapolis music world. X-Ray Roger Jimmy kicked off the music on the atrium stage. The band’s high-energy, guitar-driven rock (and rock star good looks) had the 20-something crowd pumping fists, dancing and singing along. Jimmy’s New Year’s wish of “peace, harmony and lots of sex” was a big hit.

Upstairs at the NUVO stage, Stereo Deluxe proved why they were the 2005 Benchmark Battle of the Bands winners with their power pop strength. Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band took over at 11:30 p.m. They stopped for a few minutes for the official countdown to 2007, although the energy produced by the musicians rivaled the thousands of people screaming at midnight. The Big Damn Band had a big delta blues sound produced by only three members. As they promised, they saved the best for 2007, reclaiming the stage and the crowd with authority. Breezy of the Big Damn Band wins the best-dressed nod. Not everyone can find the perfect black dress and accessorize it with a washboard! The Rock ’N’ Roll Ball was the perfect way to musically ring in 2007.