As a judge in the 107.7 SFR Classic Rock Showdown Finale last month at Jeffersonville's Third Base Tavern, I was worried that Render's softer selections, largely from the 1970s, might not go over well with a crowd gathered to hear covers from the likes of Van Halen and Metallica.

Instead, its melodic take on cuts like Bad Company's "Feel Like Making Love" and The Who's "Squeeze Box" got the crowd off its feet and dancing in a way none of the other entries did—a more amazing feat given that many audience members were there to support one of Render's competitors.

Render is playing Nov. 18 and 19 at Louisville's Hard Rock Cafe (424 S. Fourth St.). The shows start at 9 p.m. both nights.

Render is Willie Jeffries (lead vocals, guitar, keys), Darren Brinksneader (bass, guitars, vocals), Steve Ramirez (lead guitar) and Troy Torstrick (percussion, vocals).

Photo: Courtesy Render