WHO: Eric Thompson, 32

WHAT: Manager of Brickhouse Music

LIVES: Easthill, Eau Claire

IN THE VALLEY FOR: 28 years. 

Eric graduated from Memorial High School in '94 and has been plying with groups in the area since '91. He encouraged Brickhouse Music to open its Eau Claire store to help support the local music scene. He currently performs with The Jim Pullman Band, Snifter, The Shorn, and The Eau Claire Blues Allstars

Is Eau Claire getting the ROCK it deserves? 

Eau Claire is getting more rock than it can handle.

As far as local bands are concerned, is there a distinctive “Chippewa Valley sound?”

We have a pretty diverse sound here. One of the coolest things I heard was from Eric Sommer from DC, and he was telling me that Eau Claire and LaCrosse are considered to have one of the best underground music scenes in the nation.

When it comes to guitar  virtuosity, do you believe that “Les (Paul) is more?” 

It took me about 15 years to understand it, but yes, less playing is more. However, that does not hold true for pedals.

In your opinion, what’s the best locally crafted rock tune in Chippewa Valley history? 

“Still” by Another Carnival has always had a place in my heart. I have no reason why. The Pullman band covers it all the time.

What place in town considers you a “regular?” 

The Mousetrap sees me quite often.

What frustrates you about the Chippewa Valley? 

 It’s sad – all the cuts our schools are taking. We’re losing some good teachers and programs.

What is one of the best cultural experiences you’ve ever had around here?  The UW concert committee back in the ’90s was awesome. They turned me on to loving live music. I was about 14 and there were shows all the time with diverse regional acts at the Cabin or Council Fire Room. They also had local groups on the bill, so you really got to know who was playing around town. I miss that.

On your death bed, you get one meal from a local restaurant, what would it be? 

 Definitely a Ray’s hot beef w/ onion and mustard w/ a frosted mug of Honey Weiss. Maybe two since it’s my last chance.

What’s your favorite local festival? 

I like the summer concert series in Phoenix Park. 

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Describe your last encounter with the police department.

 I really don’t remember, but it was over 10 years ago.

What book, TV show, or movie would you recommend to the members of our city council?

 Footloose.

What sort of economic development would you like to see in our area?

  I like that downtown is being revitalized. A multi-cultural center downtown would be great. 

Who is the greatest Wisconsinite of all time? 

I would have to say Les Paul from Waukesha.

What part of the Chippewa Valley have you never visited?  I used to deliver pizzas when I was young, so there isn’t much I haven’t seen.

If you could rename Eau Claire, what would it be? 

Ahh, how about Angavu Maji. 

If you could magically add one store, restaurant, or shop to the area, what would it be and why?

Cheapo Records. We need a good place to buy vinyl.

Be honest: Borders or the library? 

Library. It’s free (minus the late fees) and easy to get to.