Stereop Magazine

We will be back before the end of the year!

2010-10-30T15:13:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

The site will be functioning again by December 31st! However, i'm looking for more staff and designers, so if you are interested, please e-mail me at: jesbailey@ymail.com

-Jes

UPDATES!

2010-02-01T16:53:00.000-06:00

I am starting up the sites again! I am in need of writers, photographers, reviewers/reporters, and designers. All of the jobs are non-pay. It's strictly voluntary. If you are interested, please e-mail me at: stereopmagazine@hotmail.com or send me a MySpace message on my personal account.

-Jes

Stereop Magazine is on a Break/Hiatus!

2009-12-12T16:24:00.006-06:00

Hello Readers,

We are going on a break and won't be updating the sites again until further notice.

On that day we will have a new layout, staff, and many more things (they're surprises!)

Thanks for everything thus far,
-Jes & the rest of the Stereop staff.

9 X 9 = HELL?

2009-12-02T12:50:00.006-06:00

Nine bands, nine hours equals pure brutality! This day is the day of HELL with an arrangement of acts unlike any other, with this very special fusion of combining not one but two tours of pure adrenaline force you haven’t seen anything yet. Erupting from the sound barrier known as the Hollywood Palladium, this Sunset spot light was the ultimate sights and sounds of this unforgettable night.

DIRGE WITHIN:

Round one commenced with the likeness of openers Dirge Within who performed a solid 20-minte set up that consists of tunes coming off their recent album “Forced Fed Lies” getting the crowd up and running the blood rushing to their heads pumping with energy that could not be contained. Next up metal goers Hate Eternal rubbing off their black metal style interacting with the crowd on/off shaking hands and tossing guitar picks as the on-lookers grabbed with anticipation. Soon after Born of Osiris struck a chord with the crowd getting their keyboarding techniques under control while the rest of the band played right on through until the first round of acts was soon drawn to a close.

HATE ETERNAL:

Round two soon got underway as Whitechapel took over the stage – all you would see every few seconds would be a blurry vision of a person being tossed or thrown directly onto the sea of people jumping and shouting right along to the beat of the music. The music did not stop there though because it was Unearth who had jumped upon the stage and continued to roll with this energetic madness. These guys dealing out all the energy they possible could having a repeating occurrence of the first round but maintaining it when it was all said and done. But as soon as they’re performance had commenced it had soon ended, and it was Chimaira’s turn to turn this place upside down and inside out. That is exactly the vibration that unfolded getting the crowd up and running somewhat during their set the fans eagerly awaiting for the band that was to come up after these guys were just to energized to concentrate on Chimaira’s actions.

Born Of Osiris:

Now that the first set of rounds was over with – it was time for the last three acts to take over and do their thing but was the crowd even up for it after those first arrangements of acts? Yes they were. Death metallers Cannibal Corpse were one of the three major headliners of that night and boy oh boy was everybody in anticipation of their arrival. Once they had appeared on stage all HELL broke loose and literally the floor was opened up in two different sections as the entire crowd of people was nothing more than a tidal wave of people. Everybody was being pushed and shoved around falling down and being picked right up right on into the last song of their set up “Hammer Smashed Face”.

UNEARTH:

Afterwards the crowd of people had disappeared and the second to the last headliners who everybody was in high hopes of witnessing was Trivium a heavy metal act whose current actions brought them humiliation. The floor had opened up and the crowd had returned but not everybody was quite into these “runner-ups” they’re performance lacked the quality of the music they’ve been known to dish out and this performance wasn’t all that great.

CANNIBAL CORPSE:

So once the “runner-ups” were dead and gone the final act of the night was about to draw an ending point of their musical career as front man Jamey Jasta says “This will be our last time here out on the West Coast, you won’t be seeing us until next summer – so everybody get moving!” Hatebreed’s hardcore metal styling’s brings out the punk era meets metal era and combines the two fussing together such sound it remains to the point of sounding great throughout the entire set. Jasta going down the lines of performing such hits as “Live for This”, “Destroy Everything”, “As Die Heart As They Come”, and paying tribute to an act that has always been there for them as Jasta says “This band helped us out while out on tour and let us use their instruments – that is SLAYER!” “This song is “Ghosts Of War”. Hatebreed literally tearing up the crowd ten times more than any of the previous acts had done wrapping up this night as the night that truly was HELL.

TRIVIUM:

HATEBREED:

Written/Photography By: Natalie Perez

Trivium Digs Up the Goods

2009-12-02T12:48:00.001-06:00

Cory Beaulieu guitarist of Trivium gets interviewed. Get the digs on what went down.

1. Introduce yourself and what you do in Trivium?

Cory: Names Cory I play guitar and back-up vocals.

2. How is the current tour going, getting along with everybody?

Cory: Its’ great today the two tours joined together. Other than that we’ve just been headlining. We have toured with Chimaira before one of the other bands we don’t know quite well is Whitechapel. Shaun of Dirge Within we’ve known him for years even before Dirge Within even began. Plus we’re good friends with the guys of Cannibal Corpse as well so it’s been a lot of fun.

3. Who do you think you've spent the most time with on this tour?

Cory: Have to be the guys of Dirge Within. We get along with those guys great. We hang out with them a lot showing them a good time. Every couple of days we have one of them come ride with us on our bus let them sleep instead of being cramped up in the van. Those guys are really cool and fun to hang out with.

4. How did this combination of Trivium and Hatebreed come to be, was it on purpose?

Cory: Our tour and Hatebreed’s tour we’re both booked playing Los Angeles so the promoter thought it’d be better to just fuse them together. By the looks of it – it’s a petty solid crowd. Only downside is having the bands play so early and people can’t make it out to the show because of work or other issues but other than that, we can’t really complain.

5. What was it like playing the Sounds of the Underground back in 06, that’s when I first saw you guys actually?

Cory: It was a pretty cool tour. It was the only one that was just like Ozzfest. Expect Sounds of the Underground was cooler because of all the underground bands that were a part of it and being able to expose them and share this opportunity to take over the stage. Now that Mayhem has arrived you don’t see Ozzfest or Sounds of the Underground as much because Mayhem is for the more stable metal acts that are out right now just focusing on those acts alone pretty much.

6. Out of all the music videos and albums to date, which is your favorite and why?

Cory: Favorite video would be “Throws of Proditiction” we watched some of our older videos and it was embarrassing. The last video for “The Crusade” we met up with this guy Ramón who’s done every video with us since then. He truly delivers when it comes to the videos and we’ve happy with them he really represents the band well. As for albums I think the ones that stand out the most would have to be ‘Ascendy” and ‘Shogun”.

7. If you had to run into yourself 10 years ago and tell yourself what you're in store for what would you say?

Cory: 10 years ago I’d still be in high school so I’d probably say “Get ready for some fun.”

8. Anything else you'd like to add?

Cory: If you haven’t heard of us already go check us out on MySpace and see what you like and take it from there.

Dirge Within’s 8-Question Round-Up

2009-12-02T12:46:00.001-06:00

Dirge Within’s guitarist Shaun Glass caught up with me while out on the road on the band’s most recent stop out on the current tour this one being a fusion of Trivium’s bill and Hatebreed’s. Shaun spoke to me about the current touring route, which band he spends the most time, down to the pranks he’s pulled while goofing off behind the scenes. Aside from those side effects he also threw out details regarding the band’s current music video release, and album output on what the low down is revolving around this reality world of music.

1. What's been the highlight so far of the Into the Mouth of Hell We Tour?

Shaun: The two tours were so near one another that the promoter’s decided to put them together into this big festival for the San Francisco and Los Angeles dates. But I think Los Angeles kicks ass better than San Francisco does which is rare.

2. Which band have you been hanging out with the most on this tour?

Shaun: Trivium, I ride a lot with them and hang with them. Cory, Matt, Paulo, and Nick are great friends of mine I just love those guys.

3. Is the economy affecting your tour attendance or merch sales? Is it impacting logistics or operation at all?

Shaun: Of course you see it. For the price we have to sell t-shirts they are 4 or 5 other bands you have to match it up with to keep it fair. So there are kids that have to miss out on buying shirts at times which sucks. Its reality so you just got to make the best of it I suppose.

4. What's the best prank you've played on bandmates or other bands?

Shaun: Gabe of Whitechapel who I call Cartman we bought him an Eric Cartman drivers license and put it in his wallet that was hilarious.

5. I'm sure you get stories from fans about how your music impacts their lives. What's one that really stands out?

Shaun: There was a girl in Hartford, Connecticut who said that our music helped her get through her illness. That’s always a very heartfelt to hear from our fans.

6. Tell me about your latest video for "Forever the Martyr".

Shaun: It was a long day of bombs and explosions, I think the director got a good vibe of the band and we’re known to be an aggressive type of band when performing live. I want to have fun and crush some skulls.

7. Why should the fans own a copy of "Force Fed Lies"?

Shaun: I think every song has a different vibe and has a good American metal and do our own thing.

8. Any last words?

Shaun: Thanks for having me, and keep supporting metal!

Holiday Mash-Up with Paul of Cannibal Corpse

2009-12-02T12:43:00.001-06:00

Drummer machine Paul Mazurkiewicz of death metallers Cannibal Corpse caught up with me while out at the band’s Hollywood stop on the current tour. To talk to me about the upcoming holiday season along with the good and the bad effects of the interviewing process and what the fans can expect from an overall Cannibal Corpse slaughter fest if not having already experienced one.

1. How was your Thanksgiving?

Paul: It was pretty uneventful but it was good. We had a day off after having 14 shows in a row. When out on the road I’m not with my family. So it was just another day but the fact that we had a day off was nice.

2. Looking forward to the remaining holiday season?

Paul: Of course we’ve been very busy while on this tour. We’re ending just before Christmas and everyone will be getting home in time for the holidays so they’ll be able to spend time with their family and loved ones so we’re all looking forward to that.

3. What do you hope to find underneath the Christmas tree come Christmas morning?

Paul: I don’t even know anymore to me I don’t want anything or need anything. I want to see my family, see my wife and daughter and can’t for that. That’s the most important thing to me.

4. What about your latest record, what can be said about it that hasn't been covered?

Paul: I don’t know good question really. It’s a great record I think - we felt that we did good job on it. Eric doing the best he can to produce it. We’re happy it’s doing so well and we’re out on the road doing better than we ever have been so it’s a good feeling all around.

5. Out of all the members of Cannibal Corpse, who goes the longest without showering?

Paul: (Laughs) Probably George, sometimes most of us it’s hard to do because you go and shower the night before a show and then have to go and shower again afterwards – so it’s like pointless. I think it would be a safe answer to say though that George is indeed the one that’s gone the longest without showering. There are going to be days where all of us play not showering and then some where we have showered. I would hope I’m somewhat clean so I would wait it out after a while before needing to shower so it happens.

6. What have been your best and worst interview/fan experiences?

Paul: Ya know I guess the interviews would be a hit and miss. The Most we do is being one of those a hit and some are like the ones where they don’t even know who you are. It seems like I have some knowledge of who I’m going to talk too. But those are the types are the ones that seem the most pointless. As for fans 99% of the fans are great and down to earth who just want to meet you and have a good time and then get some that don’t know when to keep their mouth shut. You got to take the good with the bad with the business we’re dealing with here.

7. You've toured with pretty much everybody, who do you prefer touring with the most?

Paul: We have toured with a lot of bands and befriended a lot as well. That is also a hard question to answer. We’ve toured with so many but as us being fans of music we full filled our dream of getting to tour with Slayer and watch them perform every night was awesome and we’d love to do that again.

8. What's it like going back to being a support act after so many years as a headliner?

Paul: It’s a little different as well. We’ve done headlining since the beginning but at the same time we’re one of the biggest death metal bands around so we look at it expanding the fan base as much as possible. Like we are today this tour is a combination so we got more an eventful chance. We’re not use to doing this type of thing but we’ll do it whenever we can and make it work.

There are of course the main songs that we’d “have to” perform and then there are the ones that we can toss to the side that wouldn’t matter as much as the main ones do. If we didn’t perform such songs as “Hammer Smash Face”, then we’d be facing a problem. I don’t think I could go without playing that song either way.

9. Who does most of the interviews while out on the road, and who do you usually get guys or girls or is it even?

Paul: It’s mostly I or Alex or George does a bunch as well. Unusually us three it’s always a mix. I’d say 60% male and 40% female it’s not like we’re just sticking with just females or just males. Everybody has their share.

10. Anything else you'd like to add?

Paul: Thanks for the support of death metal and Cannibal Corpse if it wasn’t for you guys we wouldn’t be here today so keep it brutal!

The Born Of Osiris Wrap-Up

2009-12-02T12:41:00.002-06:00

Lee and Joe of Born Of Osiris spoke to me talking about the current tour, what to expect from the band come the New Year and who they’ve spent the most time with while out on the road along with everything else thrown in between.

1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do in Born of Osiris and how long has the band been together?

Joe: I play keyboards and vocals.

Lee: I play guitar.

Lee: the band has been around for 3 years now.

Joe: I met Lee back in the day we’ve known each other for many years now.

2. Born of Osiris re currently on tour with Hatebreed, Cannibal Corpse and Unearth, how has the tour been going so far?

Lee: We love each other with every single tour with do. We have a house together so everything is working out great.

Joe: We’re throwing down more this tour. We’ve pretty much toured with most of these acts before, like Unearth, Hatebreed, Whitechapel, etc so this time we’re giving it our all.

3. What can be said that hasn't been said about "A Higher Place"?

Lee: Skip this question.

Joe: Skip this question.

4. What do you want your fans to say after listening to "A Higher Place"?

Lee: It’s a growth from our last album. We have our own point of view from everything in life.

Joe: We want the people to expect the unexpected when it comes to the music we create.

5. Have you ever had a bad interview experience with a Journalist?

Lee: Oh yes.

Joe: We’ve had our interviews taken down at times. Or just straight out rude and people get the wrong idea when we’re drunk sometimes when doing the interviews.

6. Who did you think spent the most time with while on this tour?

Lee: We all have accounts for the World of Warcraft video game so we play that a lot with Cannibal Corpse.

Joe: I would say Hate Eternal because they go on right before us so they are our buddies.

7. Have any plans for the remainder of this year, and what should we expect from you come next year?

Lee: Well I think we’re doing another headlining tour.

Joe: All the bands we’ve played with we’ve been stepping it up quite a bit.

Lee: After this we’ll go home make a new album in January/February/March so watch out for that come next year along with more touring of course.

8. Any final words of wisdom?

Joe: Whitechapel rocks!

Lee: Check out our recent album “A Higher Place” and watch out for us in the New Year. We’ll have new material, new tours, new everything.

The Sleeping Interviewed

2009-12-02T12:41:00.001-06:00

Doug and Chris of The Sleeping caught up with me on the last day of tour to talk about the band’s latest release and the upcoming holiday season along with the remaining plans they have set for this year leading straight into the New Year.

1. Introduce yourselves and tell me what you do in The Sleeping?

Doug: Hi I’m Douglas and I sing for The Sleeping.

Chris: Hi I’m Chris and I play the piano, keyboard and theremin.

2. How did you come up with the band name?

Doug: The Sleeping came from when we started the band I guess you would say it was an oath to people as a form of staying asleep when it comes to their dreams and not doing what they wanted to do. So we started The Sleeping to have those to be able to break out of that zombie state of mind no matter what they’re struggles may be.

Chris: Doug’s cute.

Doug: F**k yeah I am.

3. Today is the last day of tour, how was it? Get along with everybody?

Chris: Yeah great vibe on and off the road, texting each other every day.

Doug: It’s been a real cool vibe and has all become great friends and all of the dudes in Hollywood Undead have their logo on them and we have theirs on us. So it’s sad that this tour is over, because they’re our best friends and we’re going to miss them.

Chris: Tonight we plan to party.

4. What can you say about your current album?

Doug: It’s called What It Takes and it’s our newest album with our newest members Paul our guitar player and Chris. It’s very hard rock album to listen too.

Chris: It’s very catchy and upbeat and it’s fun to listen to really loudly.

5. Have any favorites off it?

Doug: Chris what’s your favorite?

Chris: My favorite song would probably have to be the last song on it called “Dead Beat”. It was a fun song to write and has a lot of different elements to it.

Doug: I also like that one there’s so much to say about that song. “One Night Stand” which is about sexual relationships - I had written that song in Philly and we won’t discuss that happened there but I did write that, it was cool that’s one of my favorites and I also like “Shallow Lungs” and that’s about drugs and the bridge on it is cool reminds me of Stevie Wonder.

6. The holidays are coming up Thanksgiving and Christmas what do you hope to expect to be under your Christmas trees?

Doug: Well he and I don’t give a crap about Thanksgiving. I’m down for stuffed mushrooms though as for Christmas I really want a PS3, new jeans and shoes and more records for my player and my tattoo artist to come move in with me.

Doug: Hey come here (Calls friends over during interview) this is the clothing companies you have to get into whenever you see this bird you know that – that’s the clothes for you.

Doug: Alright Christmas back on track ready go!

Chris: I want a moped, and record player.

7. What can we expect from you guys for the remainder of this year leading into the New Year?

Doug: We’ll be writing as much as we can and then go and record everything.

Chris: Just tour and write some more and then go and record it once it’s all done.

8. Anything else you’d like to say?

Doug: Yes everyone out there in this world I love and believe in you and take care of those around to and wash daily and triumph over evil I’m Doug I have to run and I would like to tell you one more time believe in yourselves.

Chris: This comes from BOO-YA who are our black jack in Vegas who says Doug is Satan.

Chris: Peace out we’re The Sleeping have fun!

Backdrifter's Sum of Influence

2009-11-24T21:30:00.001-06:00

Grabbing their name from a lyric inspired by modern rockers Radiohead, the Culver City based act Backdrifter, from sunny California, formed in late 2008 and since then has not looked back. Steve Watkins and Nate Waxler formally of "The Hypothetical Band" had begun to search for what they knew would conclude their brand new formation Backdrifter.

Soon after the formation had come to a completion and thus the line-up was born, with drummer Terry Barajas, as well as singers Adriann Helton and Kryss Deetch. Now all that was left to do was to make music! This is of course what occurred and what lead the band to unleashing their smashing debut efforts “Sum of Influence”.

Comprising of 12 various tracks you're divided up with your average rock blended in with some modern blues riffs with punk folk attitude driven in between. That showcases the real music being used here, like for instance, "The Great Divide", "Sunny Days", "Everything You Gave Away", and "Stolen Air", all consists of that same momentum the mellow pulsing rate of the drums with upbeat guitar riffs that tend to play against each other if not using an on and off type of method.

Lyrically the words are out spoken and overpower the music’s performance rating by drowning out the music the listener is hearing and replacing it rather than with a more aggressive affection. The listener hears what’s being said and can find themselves bobbing their head to each of the notes being played out its very catchy and makes the music bounce per each beat.

Backdrifter’s style is humble and calm breaking down the beat of the music in every which way possible never missing a beat let alone the mood you feel while listening in, makes these folk blues rockers rocking with absolute ease.

The Fabulous Miss Wendy: Hollywood Punk Goddess a Finalist for Gibson Guitars’ “SG Gal”

2009-11-24T15:37:00.002-06:00

Hollywood, CA, November 24 2009—Twenty-two-year-old punk rock princess The Fabulous Miss Wendy is already “the sexiest rock star ever,” according to Revolver magazine; now she’s one of ten finalists in the running to become Gibson Guitars’ “SG Gal,” and she needs your help to make it to number one. And as if that’s not enough, her video “I Like Boys” is nominated for LOGO’s “Ultimate Sexiest Videos” weekly contest beside videos by Ciara, Kelly Clarkson, Lady Gaga, the Pussycat Dolls, and more.

For Hollywood-based rocker The Fabulous Miss Wendy, comparison to iconic female musicians is nothing new: a CDBaby feature on Miss Wendy warned Courtney Love and Gwen Stefani to “start running immediately.” Though she’s only twenty-two, Wendy has come a long way since picking up a guitar at the age of ten, when she was inspired by old-school punk acts like the Misfits, The Dead Kennedys, and The Ramones. Just a few years later, Wendy beat out hundreds of other girls to nab the lead spot in a Nickelodeon all-girl rock band. She went on to attend the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, traveled to Iraq to play for U.S. troops, made it to third place in the U.S. “World Battle of the Bands” Competition, and won a VH1 Recommended Artist Award—and, of course, wrote and recorded all ten tracks of her debut album. She’s already gotten airplay on major L.A. and Seattle stations, played the hottest venues on the Sunset Strip, including The Whisky and The Keyclub, and racked up praise from critics.

Considering her resume, The Fabulous Miss Wendy’s a perfect fit for the Gibson “SG Gal”—according to the guitar manufacturer’s website, the “SG Gal” is “a girl guitarist who’s got the chops and the charm to represent one of the most iconic guitars in our lineup, the Gibson SG.” The Fabulous Miss Wendy’s definitely got the chops: she makes it a point to counter the expectation that most female players are second-rate rhythm guitarists. Wendy highlights her lead guitar skills with songs like her cover of Bad Brain’s “Rock for Light,” with it “rippin’ guitar leads.” But despite her dedicated musicianship, The Fabulous Miss Wendy doesn’t take herself too seriously—and that’s where the charm comes in. Wendy’s style is all sassy, punky fun, with mischievous lyrics like “I like boys…how could I not?” and a stage presence to match.

Speaking of “I Like Boys,” The Fabulous Miss Wendy’s video for this feisty, flirty track is part of an ongoing contest where MTV Network’s LOGO channel asks viewers to vote for the “Ultimate Sexiest Videos” and airs the winners on a weekly show. The video for “I Like Boys” was actually a collaboration between TFMW and the makers of the 2009 film The People I’ve Slept With, and Wendy’s music is also featured in the film. The music video intercuts footage from the film, about an unapologetically promiscuous woman on the hunt for her baby daddy, with images of Wendy surrounded by a gaggle of adoring (and mostly shirtless) boys. Add in the opening shot of Wendy’s “FABULOUS” tattoo, and no doubt about it, the video is definitely sexy.

But if you want to watch Wendy’s video on LOGO’s weekly show, you’ll need to vote for it at http://www.logoonline.com/shows/dyn/the_click_list_ultimate_sexiest_videos/video_voting.jhtml. And don’t forget to cast your vote for The Fabulous Miss Wendy as Gibson’s “SG Gal” as well. Voting ends December 1st at 4 P.M. EST, so hurry to http://www2.gibson.com/News-Lifestyle/Contests/SG-Gals-Video-Vote.aspx to get your vote in. You can also check out The Fabulous Miss Wendy and her music at www.thefabulousmisswendy.com and www.myspace.com/thefabulousmisswendy, and her debut CD is available at iTunes.

Agent Mooshead's Neil, Throw the Switch!

2009-11-19T18:48:00.000-06:00

When a name like Agent Mooshead came to my attention only one thing struck my mind and that was the timeless classic "The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show" why you ask? Well if you don't know who this funny going duo is you're down right crazy. Rocky is the flying squirrel sidekick of front runner Bullwinkle the Moose so put two and two together and this band name should struck somewhat a resemblance.

Or at least I think so, but any whom, this progressive experimental jazz combination takes the musical inputs of 6 members and dishes out the styling attitude that is "Neil, Throw the Switch!" A 9-track rhythm machine of harmonic architecture with such improvisation that this band alone provides its own brand of jazz that tends to create itself as each song plays itself through. Like "Neckface", "Tricycle", and "Mow Your Lawn", showcases the instruments craftsmanship with ease. The music just glides itself right through each tune piecing itself as the music slowly formats.

Concluding with such grace and smoothness the music just formulates over and over making each tune sound completely different and utterly unique in its own way. Agent Mooshead has a promising future ahead of them and this album is just the start of something totally unexpected come the future stances.

Ghoul Patrol Rocks the Night Away

2009-11-17T13:06:00.003-06:00

Death takes its chances when entering the rock n’ roll zone, allowing metallers Jukka Pihlajaniemi (JP) (vocals) and Jani Rapo (JR) (guitar) of Ghoul Patrol to catch up with me recently via email to discuss the band’s lyrical meanings, how the band came to be, and everything else thrown in between. Just the fact that the band is the Ghoul Patrol makes this conversation that more interesting to get into.

1. How did the band come up with the name Ghoul Patrol, what does it symbolize?

JR: First, it sounded good and second, I wanted some old school horror movie/comics elements to the name. That's about it.

2. Why do you feel Death Metal/Rock/Metal has become complicated?

JP: At least in Finland the situation is that there are simply too many bands - and the overall level/quality of bands is pretty high. Rock 'n' roll and metal are still going strong, but maybe due to the global economy problems labels are afraid of signing anything out of ordinary.

3. What is your best fan experience?

JP: The best experiences are definitely from Scotland. The most memorable is probably one guy who wanted us to sign his prosthetic leg.

JR: ...Sure, and the human pyramid was quite fancy :)

JP: Scottish metalheads really do seem to know every trick in the book to entertain the band playing on stage!

4. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)

JP: My lyrics are mostly about politics, human rights, religion - from my point of view. From this perspective the EPs don't differ from each other that much. The main point in the lyrics is not to preach but to give people something to think about.

5. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)

JR: I do all the songs by myself and some of the arrangements, Jukka does the lyrics and rests of the arrangements are done with the band. This method seems to work for us.

6. How much of the recording process was laid out before coming into the studio?

JP: We have a pretty good idea of the final result when we enter the studio. Of course we make some new adaptations or tweaks if you will on the fly.

7. What's behind the title and artwork of your most recent release?

JP: 'The 3rd Death Manifest' is our third and final EP. We wanted to state it in the title. It marks the beginning of a new era. We had many different ideas for the cover art but we decided to go with the simple one this time - and it works. I and Jani are responsible for the cover art of Ghoul Patrol.

8. What is your opinion on the Uusimaa Finland music scene?

JP: Competition is insane. Tons of great bands, few labels, limited opportunities to get visibility in the media and way too few venues to play in.

9. Are you happy with the way the new album has turned out, or is there anything that you wish you could go back and change?

JP: There's nothing I would change. We were very excited to work with Matias Kupiainen (Stratovarius) who recorded and produced the latest EP. You always have to analyze afterwards the songs/performances you've done and learn from it. We're constantly developing and looking to the future.

JR: I think there's no such thing as perfect and there are always some stupid little things you want to change after wards but in "The 3rd Death Manifest" I'm quite pleased. Matias did a great job!

10. How much longer do you think you'll have to wait before nailing that record deal?
JP: This seems to be a question in everyone's mind. Really hard to say - when the economic situation is what it is. Labels are afraid to make even distribution or licensing deals.

11. What can we expect from Ghoul Patrol in 2010?

JP: Ghoul Patrol will start to record the debut full-length album. Also we'll continue playing as many shows as we can - hopefully also abroad and overseas.

12. Where do you see the band say five (5) years from Now?

JP: The aim is of course to make Ghoul Patrol a household name among the metalheads. We'll still continue making albums and playing shows for the best people on the planet.

13. What will be the next single released from your latest release? Is there a set amount of time to wait between the releasing of singles or does the band or the label decide on this?

JP: I don't believe in singles. At least in Finland nobody really buys them and because we haven't got a record deal we don't release them. After we get a deal it will be up to the label whether to release them or not.

14. Anything else you'd like to add?

JR: Death 'n' Roll, All Night Long!

The Jade – Seconds Away From Salvation

2009-11-16T20:16:00.000-06:00

When comes to the "break-down" of an album lyrically you get thrown a series of emotions, in this case we deal with "life, death, solitude, hope, faith and mental health" according to guitarist Pekko Mantzin of metal rock alternative The Jade straight out of Finland.

This mighty foursome have brought together some re-composed tunes that have been issued beforehand on their last set of self-published works but now that era is behind them, now is the time for us to bear witness to "Seconds Away From Salvation".
The 13-tracked plus the added bonus lays it out to an arousing 14 altogether, gives us the lyrical formula for every type of emotional need we may be enforcing. With that said “Solitary Soul”, is the opener that literally blows this album away, for instance the drums come in quick and easy while the guitars riff structure just sails right on through, the vocals capturing the whole emotional musical meaning.

Moving on with “"Roses Are Burning", you get thrown with that same vibe that you received with the opener. The music just impulses itself until it explodes directly at you, having all the instruments come at you all at once, the guitar’s structural work and vocal tactics clashing together with ease. Now "Drowning", and "King´s Cross", have the mellower effect. These are to be considered the “ballad songs” offered upon “Seconds Away From Salvation”.

Each compressing that real emotional stress that grips upon your heart and soul and unleashes itself slowly until your whole body is drained of your bodily fluids. When that being said and over with, The Jade has composed an arrangement of tunes that really captures what the band was going after when making this album, be just “Seconds Away From Salvation”.

theAttitude Aiming Straight for the Middle

2009-11-15T14:03:00.002-06:00

This is not your ordinary EP oh no, this consists of 6 that's right 6-tracks that live up to what they're intended to do. Which is but of course to create music correct? Well that’s somewhat the answer. You do receive 6-tracks of your average take on what rock, metal, and industrial music is but where does it go, well it just so happens to go “Straight to the Middle”.

Being well known across the southwestern region known as Arizona, theAttitude formed just 4 years ago and since have not looked back. Brought on by musical veterans, vocalist Jim Louvau and guitarist Anthony Kirksey the two began to write and craft together songs with just one idea in mind. That they wanted to have absolutely no musical limitations whatsoever having coming from different backgrounds the more resources the merrier. Later on bassist Nick Ruggiero, second guitarist Jared Bakin, and drummer Kansas Farver completed this new adapted project.

This brings us back to the EP and the 6 so called tracks you get thrown into, "Best Days", and "Rebel Yell", are the major highlights enlisted here, but theAttitude is enforcing the music to establish this connection with its listener taking them to a whole another dimension. With the added industrial effects and mid bending guitar effects and solos aside from the occasional in-coming “screams” by Louvau – theAttitude has built a solid set of songs that not only can the listener relate to but accompany them on their own reality world. theAttitude's music simply combines The Dreaming meets War Tapes a take on a whole another rock zone.

Play List for Week of Nov. 14

2009-11-14T18:36:00.002-06:00

1. "It's Dangerous Business Walking Out Your Backdoor"- Underoath
2. "This Song Is Called"- The Devil Wears Prada
3. "Mr. Highway's Thinking About The End"- A Day To Remember
4. "I'm Not A Thief, I'm A Treasure Hunter"- A Skylit Drive
5. "Shocker On Shock Street"- Dr. Acula
6. "Killer Likes Candy"- I Am Ghost
7. "Afterworld"- Tiger Army
8. "Kings and Queens"- 30 Seconds to Mars
9. "Picture Perfect, Pathetic"- Parkway Drive
10. "Competition Song"- Pennywise
11. "Death of Seasons"- AFI
12. "Obfuscation"- Between the Buried And Me
13. "Anchors Away"- Farewell
14. "Danger: Wildman"- The Devil Wears Prada
15. "Blood On My Hands"- The Used

Slant's Temptations

2009-11-14T17:44:00.000-06:00

When you blend together some alternative mixed together with some rock with a dash of progressive thrown in for flavor what do you think it combines into mixing up too? Well something known to Los Angeles as Slant.

This self-titled sophomore release is a 16-track mix-up completely covering everything mentioned beforehand and then some, creating this overpowering effect that even the band mates themselves can’t seem to forget. Mentioning in a recent interview that “One Step At A Time,” is the top notch tune you should definitely be tuning into.

Besides that tune of course there are a handful of others that stand out, including "Price To Play," "Better Without You," "No Regrets," along with "Through My Own Steps," and "Another Day," each of these among all the others, are just the tip of really capturing what types of emotions Slant’s been through.

The instrumental work is done clean and clear having the guitar work to be heard fast and edgy picking up the pace throughout the entire album, while the lyrics just speak to you while you listen in to each of the words being directly spoken to you, each clashing together to sound off this unbearable sound wave of music.

Overall Slant’s self-titled debut efforts is an attempt at re-creating music in a whole another fashion building up the momentum through each time you listen.

The Friday the 13th Party-Nighters: Slant, The Attitude, and The Dreaming

2009-11-14T16:23:00.005-06:00

What can be more exciting than to celebrate the most feared day of the entire year or pretty much whenever it pops up? I’m talking about Friday the 13th. This unlucky bad filled night or day of disaster, was actually a night filled with your modern rock n’ rollers just looking for a good time to party it up.

The night started off slow and easy then picked up the pace when the clock struck 9 sounding off nothing more nor nothing less than a fierce beating of a drum solo clashing into the soloing tactics of the guitar rhythms and undertones of rock n rollers, Slant. Their side structure curving all the right movements of their musical craftsmanship – building up the momentum required to thrill an overwhelming crowd of go getters.

After their departure an attitude had struck a chord with the so-called crowd goers, with The Attitude a Arizona sizzle with a California breeze in. These modern hard rockers nailed the crowd hard into the front row as the surrounding on-lookers just glared into the aggressive facial expressions, this band was intending to make. The crowd in the front shouted and cheered as one particular fan kept handing the singer a handful of napkins while he’d just look awkwardly and toss them into the air pulsing up his energy flow demanding that this boring crowd of on-lookers, get this party started!

Once that had been stated, the energy from the crowd slowly built upward as The Attitude’s set was drawing to its closing point. A brief intermission erupted before Los Angele’s own metal modern rock n’ rollers ripped it all up and everywhere you looked, The Dreaming. Who through together a 60 minute set-up that consisted of the old meets the new. Bringing together a brand new guitarist to the floor, new material to sing-along too and the old tunes that needed some dusting to keep the energy flowing.

Overall The Dreaming tossed out, “Let It Burn,” “Bullet,” along with a series of newer hits that will reappear within the near upcoming future that we will surly never forgets but rather be looking forward to receiving.
Written/Photographed By: Natalie Perez

The Jade's 15 Question Round-Up

2009-11-10T16:26:00.000-06:00

Wille, Jann, and Pekko of The Jade took the time to discuss the band's album debut "Seconds Away From Salvation". Besides that rocking topic, the band formed in 2004 and has been standing strong for 5 long years and now is their time to shine even brighter and further out than ever before. Bringing forth nothing but that pure rock n’ roll adrenaline rush.

1. How did the band come up with the name The Jade, what does it symbolize?

Wille: Well, they make pendants and jewelry from the ornamental jade stones made in Asia. As far as what Jade means, as one of the characters would say from Lord of the Rings “my precious”, that is what it comes down to. The name was Jann´s idea when he came to our rehearsals and suggested it to us.

Jann: Though it has nothing to do with Lord of the Ring movie. That’s one very disgusting clip. I hate those dwarfs. But, yeah, like usual Wille’s right: we’re precious. Well, any who’s, the gang was alright with the suggestion so . . . if you check the jade stones you come across a lot of symbolism - but I leave the meaning to the people.

2. Why do you feel Rock has become complicated?

Wille: Music evolves. You can´t compose three chord rock tunes till the end of time. I think there´s room for everything and I certainly appreciate all forms of categories. If I go out, I like to listen pop, metal, rock or whatever. Well, maybe not jazz, but variety is richness.

Pekko: I guess it has always been. Not the music itself but everything else involved in it. So I´d say blame it on the business and all the people within it, including the musicians.
Jann: I donno, Rock Hudson was always kinda cool cat.

3. What is your best fan experience?

Wille: There are plenty of good memories already. On our last German tour, there were many fans that travelled hundreds or maybe thousands of kilometers to see our shows across the country. You start to scratch your head to think; wait a minute, something´s going on here.

Pekko: Whenever after the gig someone fairly sober comes to say "That was cool". That is always precious.

Jann: Yes, I think it’s always amazing to meet devoted people. Some kinky stuff’s been kinda cool too but after that you might scratch some other places than your head. It’s ok too.

4. What's going on lyrically with this record? Do anything special or different from your previous works?

Wille: You have to remember that we have re-composed many of these songs that have been on our last self-published albums. Probably all things are now on a professional level.

Pekko: If we talk about songs I´d say lyrically we mainly talk about same things as we´ve done before: Life, death, solitude, hope, faith and mental health. And love in its every shapes.

Jann: Yes, Pekko’s right and I’d say that lyrically we are very talented. It’s not some ready chewed 2 minute pop nonsense that you’ll get from the shittiest radio stations. We still believe that there are people who like to think something else than the beef of the day.

5. What are your songs about? (What specific themes do they cover?)

Wille: We have the James Bond theme in the beginning of each of our songs. Otherwise the tunes would be two minutes long. That´s why we want Bond to open every track. Maybe we’ll have the Spiderman theme for the next album. Actually, topics range a lot. There´s no subject we can´t write about, but we are not singing about screwing and partying.

Pekko: When talking about the song on the album I´d mention the things I mentioned before: Life, death, solitude, hope, faith and mental health. And love in its every shapes. I believe.

6. Do you write your own songs? (Discuss the songwriting process in detail.)

Wille: We have only one cover song on the new album as a bonus track: It´s A Sin by The Pet Shop Boys. Usually Pekko comes to rehearsals with a completed song and then we start to arrange it. He pretty much has good ideas already how to arrange it, but of course we all participate in this as we play it a million times before recording it.

Pekko: Writing songs is therapy so that´s why I personally do love writing songs. And also it is always an adventure! You can never tell where it takes you.

Jann: Melody usually comes from heaven knows where but you try to find chords to it and then the lyrics. Well sometimes you have one line or two before the melody and chords but that kinda depends.

7. How much of the recording process was laid out before coming into the studio?

Wille: Every song was ready before going into the studio. Only Everlasting Memorial changed a lot in the studio; the lyrics, melody and the arrangement. Of course we added lots of spices but the main structure of the songs was ready before.

Pekko: That´s right. Of course many new arrangements appeared on the way. Like when we recorded backing vocals it was just excellent to work with the guy like Hannu Leiden is. That guy is The Singer and The Producer. Well, so is Petri Majuri but he doesn´t sing, I think.

Jann: Yes, the arrangements were pretty much figured out already but we did get great ideas added in later in the studio too. Recording wise we started the whole process in the studio from the zero.

8. What's behind the title and artwork of "Seconds Away From Salvation”?

Pekko: Seconds Away From Salvation sounds better than Seconds Away From Damnation. There´s just a fine line in between those two. Personally I believe these things, Life, Death, Hope, Faith and Love and of course Desperation too, lies in between those two, Salvation and Damnation.

Jann: I think Seconds Away From Salvation is one of the coolest titles one can think of. I love it. It sounds great, it looks great and it has the meaning. There’s so many things it reflects. But here’s the clue, in the artwork there’s a picture of Berninin’s famous The Ecstasy Of Saint Theresa. It’s a masterpiece and the title kinda reflects what the artist meant by that sculpture. It’s a fascinating story, so why not to check it out. Also it fits into the lyrics, the whole process of making an album and the road we’ve been walking on, it has never been narrow.

9. What is your opinion on the Finland music scene?

Wille: The Finnish music scene is talented and well alive. There are many kinds of bands, but only few are doing truly their own thing. If you´re too original, the radios won´t play the music. But if you aren´t, they say you´re copying somebody else.

Pekko: I find it sad and boring. There is a lot of envy and that sort of nasty things going on. It was better just a few years back. There was more room for everyone - by the time of Cool Finlandia. The most miserable fucking things are those corpses of musicians turned to critics. See, they don´t have any faith or hope left so they are out there to do some back stabbing, instead of music. That´s why my Aunt recently gave me a switchblade for a Birthday present. Just for my own good. Now I´m learning how to use it nicely though I´m a devoted pacifist.

Jann: Well there are good bands and the bands which aren’t that good. Kinda like everywhere. But I do miss Hanoi Rocks as I always had fun goin’ seeing them live as they were something. One thing the scene misses is also managers etc. There are not too many people working on that field yet.

10. Are you happy with the way the new album has turned out, or is there anything that you wish you could go back and change?

Wille: Always, but perfection is a form of insanity and an utter utopia. Better to sleep without nightmares of "shoulda or coulda".

Pekko: I can listen to it at home right after I´ve listened to My Chemical Romance, The Beatles, 30 Seconds To Mars, Foo Fighters, or all the other bands I love and I still like to play it through so it means it´s good. Plus I´ve got a really bad stereo system which was found in a rubbish been so every band sounds equally rough. So, yeah, it´s gotta be good.

Jann: Yeah the album is great. For some it takes a bit more listening, and then it opens up, so it’s not ready chewed. But it’s a very strong album–some things are more hidden and when you notice those things you go like, wow, another great thing goin’ on there. That’s one of the things why I think it’s gonna last the test of time.

11. How difficult was it getting inked to a record deal?

Wille: I would say it´s almost impossible to get a record deal for an unknown band or at least a decent one, but you have to know that impossible things also happen to somebody in the end. The chief of our record label fell in love of our self published CD, which we sent to him. He had not seen our websites or anything and came to see one of our shows in Tampere. He signed us after that.

Pekko: Yes, almost impossible. And we were lucky enough. Right now there are lots of bands in Finland who have been dropped out by the companies they have been signed to. Fucking tough it is and the situation won´t get any easier or better - at least not for a years.

Jann: Yes, those things should always be handled by managers etc. It would be great to find one who really knows his or her business and would actually do the job. But as a band we handled it pretty well. The deal was checked by lawyers etc.

12. What can we expect from The Jade in 2010?

Wille: More confusion.

Pekko: Que sera, sera. Whatever it will bring forth we’ll be ready.

Jann: See what the life brings, probably something good will happen again.

13. Where do you see the band say five (5) years from Now?

Wille: Madison Square Garden.

Pekko: With U2?

Jann: I wanna take things as far as possible with the band, there’s no limit at all, and that’s the aim. At the same time you do one thing at the time but faster they happen the better. I wanna get things done and reach as far as possible.

14. What will be the next single released from "Seconds Away From Salvation”? Is there a set amount of time to wait between the releasing of singles or does the band or the label decide on this?

Wille: We exchange ideas back and forth. We listen to each other’s opinions. Plans change as times change, so many times there are no specific dates in the far future. The next single will probably be: Yesterday´s Rain a song by Pekko and Jann.

Pekko: That´s how it seems like.

Jann: And while thinking what the next single will be we also did listen a lot of other people to get a wider view on that.

15. Anything else you'd like to add?

Wille: Our new album Seconds Away From Salvation is now released in about 9 European countries. Containing nothing but the best top songs, of pure alternative rock - I believe you´re gonna like it.

Pekko: Where ever you are you are only Seconds Away From Salvation. And by that I do mean both, salvation and the album. And finally, come hear The Reverend saying: “Don´t let the fucking cunts get you down!” Peace.

Jann: Rockn ‘rolls!
Thanks. L.U.V

Artistpr Announces Support of Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation

2009-11-09T18:07:00.007-06:00

For Immediate Release:

Hollywood CA- Nov. 9th 2009 Throughout his 25-year career, Jon Bon Jovi has sold over 120 million albums, packed concert arenas in over 50 countries, participated in countless charity projects, and touched the lives of millions-including John Mahoney, founder and CEO of Hollywood, CA-based music promotion company Artistpr.com. In fact, John Mahoney was first inspired to get into the music business when he saw Jon Bon Jovi in concert back in 1988 at the age of 15. Now, Mahoney is urging Artistpr.com members to follow his lead and donate to Bon Jovi's groundbreaking charitable foundation, the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. In addition, with the release of Bon Jovi's new documentary When We Were Beautiful as well as the much-anticipated release of Bon Jovi's new album The Circle, Mahoney is taking the opportunity to share his great enthusiasm and respect for this musician with the thousands of musical artists who use Artistpr.com's promotional services.

Artistpr.com provides both up-and-coming and established artists in all musical genres with promotional services including media exposure in print, online and via radio, access to record labels, A&R reps and other industry contacts, TV and film licensing opportunities, and invaluable guidance in navigating the jovi3cutthroat music business. Founder John Mahoney, who's worked at major labels Columbia, Epic and Arista and as part owner of 4:20 Records, is encouraging all his clients to view When We Were Beautiful and learn from Bon Jovi's success as a musician and a businessman. As Mahoney says, "Bon Jovi's incredible drive, work ethic and ability to market himself is a business model everyone can learn from, whether they're in the music business or any business."

The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness and helping every human "Soul" realize his or her potential, grew out of the Philadelphia Soul Arena Football League launched in 2004 by co-owners Jon Bon Jovi and Craig A. Spencer. From the beginning, Bon Jovi and Spencer were determined to create a new kind of sports franchise, one that would work for positive change throughout the greater Philadelphia community. To that end, Soul representatives volunteered at Philadelphia-area non-profit organizations, community gatherings, schools and hospitals, and the team raised more than $200,000 to help local charities and non-profits. In 2006, the Soul team expanded their efforts by creating the Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation, which allowed them to work on a national and international level while remaining committed to changing lives "One Soul at a Time."

In 2009, the organization underwent a name change and became the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, while continuing to focus on helping individuals in economic crisis through social services, job training, housing and community enrichment programs. The foundation has worked to construct affordable housing in locations ranging from Brooklyn, Colorado, Detroit and Louisiana all the way to South Africa. Recently, the Soul Foundation has undertaken several projects in Jon Bon Jovi's home state of New Jersey, building a new playground and funding a vacant lot stabilization program in Camden, NJ. In addition, Bon Jovi was a keynote speaker at the United Nations' World Habitat Day on October 5, 2009, where he spoke about the importance of affordable housing and improving urban planning.

As Bon Jovi's extensive charity work indicates, when this musician sets his mind to something, he goes all the way. Of course, to his many fans, that's old news: Bon Jovi achieved the incredible success he has today by continually releasing quality albums and touring relentlessly over more than two decades. Over his 25-year career, Bon Jovi's albums and singles have consistently ranked high on the Billboard charts, many reaching number one. Bon Jovi and his band have also managed to perform over 3000 concerts for over 32 million fans worldwide. And Bon Jovi's 2007 release, Lost Highway, proved the band remains as popular as ever: both the album and the accompanying U.S. tour hit number one in Billboard magazine. Showtime's new documentary, When We Were Beautiful, chronicles the Lost Highway tour while searching out the secrets behind Bon Jovi's incredibly long-running success. Director Phil Griffin intersperses intimate band member interviews with scenes of the band on tour, revealing how the band's made it through difficult times with the help of Bon Jovi's strong yet compassionate leadership. The documentary doesn't sugarcoat the reality of life on tour, making it clear touring's not a vacation, it's hard work-work that Bon Jovi and his band continue to perform for the sake of their millions of fans.

When We Were Beautiful premiered at the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival in April and was broadcast on Showtime TV on October 24th, 2009. You can watch excerpts from the documentary and see a schedule of future broadcasts at www.sho.com/site/bonjovi/. And don't forget to check out the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation at www.jonbonjovisoulfoundation.org, where you can learn more about this incredible organization and donate online. As Jon Bon Jovi himself says, "you can't always just take, you gotta give." That's a message John Mahoney hopes to share with the many young artists he works with at Artistpr.com. "Bon Jovi showed me what it takes to succeed in this business," Mahoney says, "and I know he can inspire a whole new generation of artists."

Witchbreed Crafts a Heretic Rapture

2009-11-09T15:11:00.000-06:00

When you thought the wizardy world was all said and done. Once the final conclusion was put to rest, in the world conjured up by one boy wizard that everybody has come to love and adore but that’s one wizardy fact that was completely fiction. This is a non-fiction matter, in fact its musical, and its purpose is to bring upon a whole new wizardy affect, one consisting of not only warlocks, and wizards alike, but welcoming the female witches to partake in their craftsmanship of spirits and spells.

This type of metal is known simply as “witching metal” if you couldn’t guess it by now, from the introduction. Witchbreed is fronted by female vocalist Ruby - she brings forth the likeness of other metal acts, Lacuna Coil, Within Temptation, and modern rock goers Evanescence. Built upon a solid surface, "Heretic Rapture," has a handful of good things to point out. The outer layer is laid out with the heavy blackened riffs that tend to push out the songs in a much powerful manner, allowing the percussion to serve a heavier tone and purpose.

Thus, the heaviness from the double-bass, fills in the patterns that keeps the songs sounding fresh and powerful. The choruses often are tossed back and forth having to turn down the music than pumping it upward causing the hook-ins to fall flat. Sounding precisely alike from time to time, minus these affects, Witchbreed has delivered a great album that has thrown itself upon the circle of wit, magic, and wisdom.

Los Angeles Spotlight Preview: 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards

2009-11-09T13:09:00.003-06:00

Los Angeles the capitol of the Entertainment scene, is proud to announce its 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards!

This time around the event is being held at The Avalon Theater in Hollywood out on Vine Street, across from the famed Capitol Records building. This year's LAMA's event performances includes: Wyldsky; Chani Christie; Days Before Tomorrow; Giuliettinna; Joe Finley Band; The Michael Smith Band; Laura Roppe; Sorgente; Butcher Jones; and from Russia, ANG. Each year this award showcases in sponsoring one particular artist or band that has the chance to perform upon their stage. This year it goes to Chris Riggins.

The sister production, the Phoenix Music Awards will also be sponsoring one band to perform at this years event. Butch Jones of Tombstone, AZ has been chosen, while having them be consider as "the 21st Century Guns N' Rsoes!"

This Los Angeles Music Awards has been a 18-year run dating back to 1991. Where it all began by Al Bowman, who was inspired by a conversation he had with Bill Gazzarri, only just 3 days before his passing. Being known to wearing his trademark white Fedora hat, gave musicians their starting point. He then had given Bowman his hat, claiming his title as "Godson of Rock-n-Roll", giving him his almighty blessing to go forth and become the voice of the independent music scene within the Los Angeles terrain.

Nine months has gone by and Bowman had kicked off his first annual Los Angeles Music Awards event, as a tribute to honor all of the local musicians and help them gain exposure for their recordings and various live performances. Some hot spots where this event was held, included: Whisky A-Go-Go, Roxy,House of Blues, Hollywood Palladium, Henry Fonda Music Box Theatre, Avalon, along with the Beverly Hilton International Ballroom.

The Los Angeles Music Awards has become the longest-running red carpeted event for independent musicians and filmmakers alike. Over these years there have been numerous imitators, but none in comparison to the original. To find out more information on this year's eventful night, log onto www.myspace.com/lamusicawards or www.lamusicawards.com.

Today's Featured Video: Kanye West ft. Chris Martin "Homecoming"

2009-11-06T18:18:00.004-06:00

I'm finally going to Chicago again tomorrow; it definitely feels like I'm going back "home". haha I have this weird thing for that city...

Anyways, enjoy the video.

-Jes

My Playlist Playlist by Stereop Magazine on MySpace Music - Play Playlist Songs & Download Tracks

2009-11-05T20:18:00.000-06:00

My Playlist Playlist by Stereop Magazine on MySpace Music - Play Playlist Songs & Download Tracks

any good shows in chicago this weekend?

2009-11-05T20:16:00.000-06:00

e-mail jes at: jesbailey@ymail.com

Strike Anywhere on the Iron Front

2009-11-04T17:21:00.000-06:00

When you get thrown an act with a name like Strike Anywhere what should you expect to come pouring out of their musical fingertips? Well something sounding exactly like Rise Against, Strung Out, No Trigger, and Smoke or Fire that’s what. It’s been 3 years since "Dead FM," and now it’s the time for a recap on what we’ve been missing.

First off you get thrown with 13-tracks each of which flash right on through from start to finish. "Iron Front," comes out with shrieking with unashamed styles just like all the other Strike Anywhere albums written. The band themselves aren't shy in letting their listeners know that there’s still something wrong in their eyes, whether it'd be the government, or the world, it’s not even so much the lyrical portion that lets you know instantly how pissed off these guys can actually get. "Iron Front," protests the dissatisfaction, of these current affairs at hand, and the listener can tell right away when listening in on, “Failed State,” “Hand of Glory,” right down to “Omega Footprint.”

"Iron Front," maintains that progress and energetic tone of craftsmanship that Strike Anywhere, has done beforehand, seeing that this punk melodic setting is the hardcore outbursts that are in the present time nevertheless, carry out the most potent vigor display of music to date.

Freddy Madball's Catholic Guilt

2009-11-04T00:15:00.001-06:00

“Catholic Guilt,” is the side project by Freddy Cricien of hardcore metal goers Madball.

But this time Freddy has gone solo for the time being and he had this to say about it “I’ve always had my head in both scenes, hip hop has inspired me as much as hardcore.” His passion for music is inspiring and his vocal tactics used in this method takes on a whole another attitude and musical style completely.

This hip-hop style goes down the lines of punk rock meets hip-hop having that rock beat with hip-hop mash-up thrown in the middle creating this musical sense that keeps the music flowing but has it repeat itself from time to time like songs, “New Breed," "London Calling," (feat. Rancid) and 'War," all showcase that rock style with the added vibrations of hip-hop flowing throughout that makes the music bounce if you will.

Throughout the entire album though, the music just goes back into its repeating method of sounding nothing but a broken down recording of tunes that gets overrun way too quickly sounding nothing but annoyance for the listener – hardcore fans may like this attempt but this just falls flat.

Lullaby the Storm's 3 Lanes Painted Red

2009-11-03T23:04:00.000-06:00

Founding member Scott Gross of metal rock act From Autumn To Ashes didn't expect himself to be standing upon this very Earth. Scott explains “It was September 13th 2007 and I was on I-95 in New Jersey. The rental car I had broke down and I pulled over to the shoulder of the road. I got out of the car to walk to the back and that’s all I remember.” Another car had crashed into his pining him between and causing massive injuries to his leg, back and head. “They were going to call me in as deceased” he reveals. “For the past two years I have been chained to a bed, going to physical therapy daily and undergoing multiple surgeries for my leg which is mostly metal at this point. I also have two torn rotator cuffs which I still have to have surgery for. 98% of the time the pain is off the scale, music definitely helps to take my mind off of it.”

By expressing the pain he dealt with, he formatted a whole another style of music, going down the acoustic route with his new formation, Lullaby the Storm, being a mellower effect, than his previous works, which consisted of heavier material. The band itself though, only comprises of three current members, Scott, Mari-Elaina, Jeff, and Greg Odette all of which have brought this acoustic pop-rock out into the format that is "3 Lanes Painted Red," a collection of tunes that take on a whole another effect as mentioned above, showcasing these musicians style in a whole another spotlight. The music alone is very dramatic and captures the band’s emotions through each and every note played, instrumentally speaking, and the instruments play their part – by sounding a lot like Taking Back Sunday meets Alkaline Trio.

Overall this side effect of music showcases itself to be nothing more than a over dramatic sensation of music that puts the listener at complete ease and relaxation.

The Dark Age's is Upon Us: Martin Interviewed

2009-11-02T13:42:00.007-06:00

Melodic death metallers Dark Age has presented us with their keyboardist Martin who spoke to me via email to discuss the band's formation, latest album, and upcoming plans the band has in store leading straight into the New Year!

1. Why the name Dark Age?

Martin: When the band was formed in 1995 we chose the band name because of the cruel, dark and cold world we live in. Actually the world has not changed since then, it even got worse. DARK AGE still reflects what we think about this world.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

Martin: Formed in 1995, DARK AGE have gained a lot of respect and played single shows and festivals with a lot of bands like Slayer, In Flames, Sodom, Soilwork, Hypocrisy, Mnemic, Primal Fear, Dismember, Heaven Shall Burn...just to name a few. We played the famous Wacken Open Air, the biggest Metal festival in the world, twice: In 2000 and 2003, played the German Summer Breeze Open Air in 2008 and did 2 European Tours, one time with Primal Fear.

We released 5 albums, 1 E.P. and 1 DVD so far. The last album MINUS EXITUS, released in 2008, has been voted "Album of the Month" in Germany's METAL HAMMER.

The new album ACEDIA will be out on 13th November in Europe and 16th November in the US on AFM Records.

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

Martin: Musically we come from every corner of the heavy guitar music you can imagine. Everybody on the band has his own favorite bands reaching from Paradise Lost, Metallica and At The Gates over Borknagar and Katatonia up to Yngwie Malmsteen and Ozzy.

Non-musically the world itself is the best inspiration you can get. The messed up part that’s happening here, gives us a never-ending source of inspiration to write about.

4. What are your dreams and goals?

Martin: Playing in Japan and the US some day and hopefully touring with a band that attracts a lot of people. Touring with Paradise Lost or Machine Head would be great!

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

Martin: The music is written by the whole band, but our singer/guitarist Eike and our Lead Guitarist Jšrn contribute most of it. The lyrics are mostly written by our singer, our drummer AndrŽ contributed lyrics for one song this time. As I mentioned life itself and the state of this world is a very big influence for us for example. For this album Eike focused very much on personal issues such as greed, falseness and personal breakdowns.

6. Is there any story or concept behind the title "ACEDIA"?

Martin: There are several ways to translate or interprete ACEDIA. Some see it as the precursor to sloth - one of the seven deadly sins. It can also be defined as Òa state of restlessness and inability either to work or to prayÓ. The title matches the the lyrical concept of Eike dealing with personal problems of todayÕs society and the society itself as raw and cold it has become.

7. Describe your show, visual and musically.

Martin: Basically we are five guys who like to rock and have a great time on stage and sharing it with the audience. There is also some light-show going on, but basically we try to convince with our musical skills on stage. We always try to offer the audience a good mixture of new and old songs.

8. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

Martin: I am not sure a lot of labels seem to sign bands because of their image and not their music. That is a pitty. We will do our thing and try to convince people with the music we are playing.

9. When will we be seeing the Dark Age in the U.S.?

Martin: Hopefully soon!

10. What inspires you to do what you do?

Martin: To be able to write, play and release the music we would like to hear ourselves is a great inspiration.

11. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

Martin: Do your thing!!!!

12. Have any plans for the remainder of this year, and what should we expect from you come next year?

Martin: Right after the release of ACEDIA we will be touring France for about one week. In the beginning of 2010 we hope to play as support on a bigger tour in Europe.

13. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

Martin: This really depends on the club. :-)
Sometimes you have these great venues where everything is perfect: The backstage area, the catering, the crew, the stage and the packed venue with a crazy audience. Sometimes you have these venues where everything is fucked up: Small and stinking backstage rooms, no showers, a small stage, a crappy backline and a no audience. ;-) Most of our gigs are something in-between that...

14. What would you like a listener to remember the mot after hearing "ACEDIA" all the way through for the first time?

Martin: We like the people to remember that it is a very detailed but catchy album you want to listen to over and over again.

15. Any last words?

Martin: Thank you for the interview, hopefully see you soon on tour in the U.S.!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T10:15:00.001-05:00

Love,
The Stereop Staff

California Institute Of The Abnormal: Sin Of Man's Pre-Halloween Bash

2009-10-30T15:21:00.001-05:00

We all know about parties some celebrate because of a holiday or certain ocasion while others tend to celebrate all year long. But in this case this particular is an advanced party, let's just say a "Pre-Pre Halloween Party".

Taking place at the C.I.A. (California Institute Of Abnormalarts) you've invited to attend Filthy Phil's Metal Shop 101. This being not your average take on your regular "metal shop" - this one being a lot more musical, with some of Los Angele's locals in our mists, i.e. headliners Sin Of Man.

Who brought on the midnight sensation around 12:30AM late that Thursday night, throwing together a set list consisting not only of 1 but a total of 7 songs to get your rock n' roll heavy metal adrenaline rush pumping.

So pumped up that guitarist Mark shredded all night long with overwhelming guitar solos that the band's frontman Dusty screamed until his bodily fulids spilled upon the floor. Bassist Chris and drummer Jordan being the back-ups to wrap it altogether having the music run smoothly at a break neck pace.

Overall Sin Of Man's performance was unlike anything else you haven't seen before, consisting of a repeating formula that runs into itself over and over again without allowing the music to get old.

Written/Photographed By: Natalie Perez

Enter Morphine Killer's Nightmares

2009-10-29T01:18:00.001-05:00

What can be better than having a pair of new comers unleashing not one but two EP's within the same year? Well Morphine Killer that's who. "Unapologetic", was the first round of killing that the almighty duo of Belle Roko and Eski presented us with. But now that some time has passed another killing spree is upon us, this time revolving around our worse fears, and the ones that lay within our “Nightmares”.

This time around, the Morphine Killer's style remains the same capturing that "dark" and "gloomy" affect just as before, but the music kicks it up a notch by expressing a more vocal approach having the growling effects be more present and the crisp clean vocals be less affective - but still remain surrounding the music making it more eerie.

Music wise the instruments tend to clash into one another formatting a rough and progressive sound that brings out this intense effect that brings to mind, the gothic rock styling's of Evanescence mixed together easily with sounding a lot like H.I.M. with growling tactics similar to those of Bleeding Through. “Nightmares,” draws the listener in to the music a lot more affectively this time around, exposing a more “darker” and edger side that we may not have ever expected to exist.

Cowboy Prostitutes Heart Pumping Interview

2009-10-28T17:25:00.000-05:00

Cowboy Prostitutes can't seem to place themselves in the proper categories just like everyone else but when you narrow it down and listen to their tunes you get socked in the face with your modern sleezy rock n' roll attitude with heavy metal adrenaline with punk aggression thrown right in between to mix it altogether. Pretty much when it's all said and done, Luca Isabelle spoke to me via email talking about the band's formation, newest release, and upcoming plans.

1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do in Cowboy Prostitutes and how long has the band been together?

Luca: I play bass and sing the lead vocals. Cowboy Prostitutes has existed in different forms since 2003 (give and take). Me and guitarist Tobbe Johansson are the longest lasting members (so far).

2. Where's the band from and what's the music scene like there, any bands you'd recommend?

Luca: We’re from Sweden and the scene here is pretty big (for such a small country). Therefore recommending good bands is very difficult. There’s way too many of them… I can give you the name of my favorite: The Accidents, great Rock’n’Roll band with 100% pure” fuck you” attitude.

3. Is there any story or concept behind the title "Let Me Have Your Heart"?

Luca: The thing is: we had just recorded this album and started brain storming ourselves with all possible names… but nothing really worked, you know… then one night I just couldn’t sleep and while I was laying in my bed I started to think for the fifth million time that day what name to give our album and then I thought: we have really put our hearts into this… and I wish the people that listen will understand that and give us their heart back… sort of an “heart exchange”… and then I had this “vision” of the cover (the cowgirl holding a bleeding heart)plus the name “Let me have your heart “and I thought: this is gonna kick major ass.

So I called the rest of the guys in the morning and they all loved the idea. Hehe, the funny thing is that at the end of September, 3 months after my “vision”, I go and but the new Alice in Chains album (which by the way made me cry so fucking good it is!!!) and what do I see when I open the booklet: the picture of a woman holding a blood dripping heart, just like our cover has!!!! How’s that for a coincidence?!?!?! Hehe, I just hope that will bring us luck…

4. With so many rock/metal/punk bands out there, what do you think makes Cowboy Prostitutes stand out from the crowd?

Luca: My bad mouth! Hehe, well that too - but mostly I think it is our honest view to Rock’n’Roll… I mean: we know we’re not inventing anything new. And we don’t want to either! We just want to Rock like madmen.

5. What can briefly be said about your latest music video for "Pirate Town"?

Luca: We all got extremely drunk while filming it. Some of us got arrested right after. It brought the attention of some influential people here in Europe. But mostly: it was a BLAST!

Cowboy Prostitutes - Pirate Town

Cowboy Prostitutes | MySpace Video

6. You're currently got a handful of dates coming up, what can we expect to see from those performances?

Luca: A true Rock band. No fancy shit. No special effects. Just sweat and Rock’n’Roll. And some bad words from my part… I just can’t help it… and lots of spitting… can’t help that either.

7. Do you consider Cowboy Prostitutes to be a Christian band? Do you feel affiliated in any way to this term?

Luca: We’re a Rock band and that’s the only thing we believe in… When I was 11 years old I told the priest in my neighborhood’s church to put his religion up his ass and that was the beginning of my “spiritual” freedom… I’ve never looked back.

8. What can one expect from a live Cowboy Prostitutes show?

Luca: Well, don’t expect any prostitutes (unless you’re bringing your own) and you might end up buying us alcohol…

9. Will the Cowboy Prostitutes be playing in the U.S. anytime soon?

Luca: We want to… we really want to. We just need to find the right person to bring us there… we had offers in the past but it was all so shaky… States are so far away we don’t really wanna find ourselves stranded there with no money and canceled gigs ‘cause we trusted some dodgy promoter. So if you know any decent one… bring it!

10. What would you like a listener to remember the mot after hearing "Let Me Have Your Heart" all the way through for the first time?

Luca: The sweet taste of a cold beer.

11. Have any plans for the remainder of this year, and what should we expect from you come next year?

Luca: The rest of the year will probably be quiet (we are already writing new songs though)… but for 2010 I want to be on the road as much as possible. And hopefully come to the States too!

12. Any final words of wisdom?

Luca: Don’t shoot the horse down before it has run the race.

Faith for Thought with Gwen Stacy

2009-10-28T17:18:00.004-05:00

Gwen Stacy's bassist Brent Schindler caught up with me via email to talk about the band's latest release along with the band's upcoming plans and everything else in between.

1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do in Gwen Stacy and how long has the band been together?

Brent: My name is Brent. I am the bass player and I sing the clean vocals. TJ and I started the band almost 5 years ago.

2. Where's the band from and what's the music scene like there, any bands you'd recommend?

Brent: The band is from Indianapolis, IN. The music scene today is different than when we were coming up. I think it's more of a punk hardcore scene now. There are a couple pop bands emerging as well. Check out My Hidden Track and Same As Sunday.

3. Is there any story or concept behind the title "A Dialogue"?

Brent: The concept is peopling in different situations ad their conversations with God. Think of it as getting to sit down with God and a cup of coffee.

4. With so many rock/metal/punk bands out there, what do you think makes Gwen Stacy stand out from the crowd?

Brent: I don't know if anyone really stands out too much anymore, but I'd like to think that when we say we give a crap about the people that like our band we really do.

5. How has the switch been between Ferret Records onto Solid State Records?

Brent: It's been good. I mean as cool as having to switch labels can be.

6. Do you think this label is your new home for good?

Brent: There is a definite chance, but life is crazy so you never know.

7. Do you consider you guys to be a Christian band? Do you feel affiliated in any way to this term?

Brent: We have been a Christian band since our inspection. I believe we still are, but that circumferences all stages of Christianity with the highs and lows.

8. What can one expect from a live Gwen Stacy show?

Brent: Hopefully some fun and music played decently well haha. I had a dude tell me we always give off positive vibes...so I guess some positive vibes.

9. Have any particular favorite songs that you like to play the most within your set list?

Brent: I really enjoy playing the new songs because they're still new ha. But I honestly enjoy playing all the songs we play.

10. What would you like a listener to remember the mot after hearing "A Dialogue" all the way through for the first time?

Brent: I want them to walk away wanting to hear it again. At some point follow along with the lyrics and dive into the world we were writing from.

11. Have any plans for the remainder of this year, and what should we expect from you come next year?

Brent: We're on a headliner right now and later this year after thanksgiving we're doing another short run with our friends from Indianapolis, Amarna Reign. Next year is a blur. I've heard alot of things, but nothing solid enough to talk about.

12. Any final words of wisdom?

Brent: Drink milk, stay in school, don't do drugs, and go buy our new CD and come to a show. I don't think you'll be disappointed in either.

Redlight Romance- Nocturnal [review]

2009-10-28T16:39:00.003-05:00

Jazzy, eccentric, catchy, and exciting. Redlight Romance pulls it all off with their newly released demo: Nocturnal (total of 10 tracks, 5 of which are bonus songs.) The first being "High and Dry," not only is it energetic and inviting but it's also provocative. In face with a voice like Joseph Hunt's and witty guitar solos from Sean Andrzejewski almost all ten tracks end being at least a little provocative. Combined, all the tracks seem to flow together uniquely to produce a quite funky vibe that keeps listeners satisfied. But, soon enough the listeners will become fans. It's true, Redlight Romance is the new addiction! Speaking of addictions, number four, "Heartbreak Free" is 'just one of those songs.' The type of track you find stuck in your head on repeat dwindling on and on but never gets old. It's catchy and simple yet the perfect recovery song for any breakup. That inspirational song that leads a night full clubbing because you're single and "heartbreak free."

Then to follow it up track 6, "Thief In the Night" lures in all ages! It's hypnotic beginning leads to a bit of edgy keyboarding by Jonny Miller; a sparkle of seductive vocals, and then to really leave their mark, a bash of bass, guitar, and drum solos. "Thief In the Night" is a musical masterpiece! With that track alone they're destined to make it big time.

So, check them out and see for yourselves. But, be prepared to be addicted to their funky, eccentric vibe.

Redlight Romance is based out of Erie, Pennsylvania; their myspace is located at http://myspace.com/redlightromance

-Wishing you the best of luck:
Rebecca Woods from Stereop Magazine

Verona Grove- The Story Thought Over [review]

2009-10-28T15:57:00.004-05:00

Verona Grove definitely knows how to make a musical entrance. This was my first time listening, debating, and criticizing their new album The Story Thought Over. I have many thoughts and conflicting feelings for Verona Grove. First off I'd like to say they're almost guaranteed to make it. Why? Because they are just another seventeen year old fetish, a typical "boy band." A little sappy and a nice rebellious vibe, their bound to make it right beside Hannah Montana. Other than that enormous downfall, Verona Grove has very catchy, memorable, "sing-along" lyrics. Their vocalist, Tony Anders, has an unusually heartfelt voice that could melt away a teenage girls' heart; along with that, the guitar and drums are very energetic. It's pure pop-punk fun!

Almost all eleven tracks on The Story Thought Over seem to just blend together, which isn't so good. However, two of those eleven caught my eye. The first being "Broadcast the News." The beginning is what mainly caught me; the eruption of a great drum and guitar solo won me over. Right along with track number six, "Revolution." This song is destined to be a major hit. Slow and inspirational the teen scene will adore it right along with the members of Verona Grove. All in all Verona Grove definitely has a big chance of becoming something more than a silly garage band. All three members are very talented just a little stuck. I think a little diversity could be a big push in their ever growing musical career. Verona Grove will be the new teen scream.

Wishing you the best of luck:
Rebecca Woods from Stereop Magazine.

{Verona Grove is a 3 piece pop-punk band from Wisconsin, visit their myspace @ myspace.com/veronagrove}

Stereop Halloween Logo/Banner:

2009-10-28T15:51:00.002-05:00

Gwen Stacy - A Dialogue

2009-10-27T17:17:00.001-05:00

Since their birth in 2004, the band known as Gwen Stacy, has formatted themselves to being a hardcore Christian punk band with solid grounds to creating their music masterpieces. Spreading everything out year after year pretty much, for instance "....I Believe in Humility," (2005) one year later a collection of Demos was unleashed in 06 and then they received a break-through, with "The Life I Know," (2008) and "A Dialogue" which is their newest release.

Since the beginning though the band has indeed made their name known and has made their mark within this industry going out on numerous tours branching out as far out as possible until now. Where it comes down to just 11-tracks to call their fate and this my friends is what makes this band so unique.

This collection of tunes captures Gwen Stacy's maturity and really showcases how much the band has developed their style since they formation back in 04, taking a giant leap altogether and growth they've accomplished together as a whole. It can be greatly expressed upon "Creation and How I see it," along with "Devil Devil," "A Middle Ground," "The Sound Of Letting Go," these handful of selections setting the band's musical skills.

The music sets itself up by building a bond allowing the guitar's source of rhythm to play out as the drums play off their beating tone and the rest of the instruments i.e. bassist and vocal chords comes thundering in with such charging force it clashes it altogether it makes the listener jump as the sound progresses itself further in, as each song plays right along through ending with one and starting off right away with the next. Gwen Stacy's lyrical formula isn't that bad either, having the listener feel the exact emotions that the band is communicating with - expressing not only these emotions through instrumental tone but vocally as well.

Gwen Stacy has indeed made their mark within this music's industry and is an break out addiction to the world we call "music".

Tegan & Sara MV // Musicians Coming To Chicago:

2009-10-26T15:53:00.006-05:00

So, I've decided to start posting random music news. Yay?

Tegan and Sara release new video:

The music video for the first single off of Sainthood has been released today!

Here's the video for "Hell":

The duo have also announced their US tour dates that will be begin in early 2010.

To see the line up go to teganandsara.com

Have nothing to do this fall/winter? Check out these gigs!
(Shows posted on here are only in Chicago because that's the closest major city to me...you can view dates in New York or Los Angeles by clicking on the city names.

All show info is from: OhMyRockness.com
(this is only a small list. please check out OMR for more dates!)

10/27 Sound of Urchin @ Abbey Pub
10/27 Saul Williams, Hollywood Holt @ Double Door
10/27 Tim Kinsella @ Empty Bottle
10/27 Neon Indian, The Smith Westerns @ Lincoln Hall
10/27 Still Flyin', Magical, Beautiful @ Schubas
10/28 Flosstradamus @ Bottom Lounge
10/28 Sissy Wish @ darkroom
10/28 The Gaslight Anthem, Murder By Death @ Double Door
10/28 Great Lake Swimmers, The Wooden Birds @ Lincoln Hall
10/28 Mum @ Logan Square Auditorium
10/28 Mae @ Reggie's Rock Club
10/28 Osso Quartet, DM Stith @ Schubas (Sufjan Stevens' The BQE Screening)
10/28 Lights, Stars of Track and Field @ Subterranean
10/29 Bob Dylan @ Aragon Ballroom
10/29 The Very Best @ Bottom Lounge
10/29 Broken Teeth @ Cobra Lounge
10/29 Nunslaughter @ Empty Bottle
10/29 Pete and J @ Hideout
10/29 Noah And The Whale @ Lakeshore Theater
10/29 Herman Dune, Wye Oak @ Lincoln Hall
10/29 Gringo Star, The Uglysuit @ Schubas

Recently announced:

11/19 Pixies @ Aragon Ballroom
11/22 This Is Versailles @ Double Door
11/25 The Sleepers @ Bottom Lounge
11/28 The Sadies @ Hideout
12/01 Weezer @ Aragon Ballroom
12/04 Holly Golightly & The Broke-Offs @ Subterranean
12/06 Arctic Monkeys @ Riviera Theatre
12/08 Helicopters @ Double Door
12/10 Headlights, Maritime @ Lincoln Hall
12/11 Cains & Abels @ Bottom Lounge
12/11 Forro in the Dark @ Schubas
12/12 Bela Fleck & the Flecktones @ Congress Theatre (Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival)
12/20 Male @ Empty Bottle
12/23 Avagami @ Empty Bottle
12/30 The Fiery Furnaces @ Schubas
12/31 Jens Lekman @ Empty Bottle
12/31 The Fiery Furnaces @ Lincoln Hall
12/31 Margot and The Nuclear So & So's @ Subterranean
3/06 The Avett Brothers @ House of Blues Chicago

SEND US YOUR BANNERS!
They make our MySpace look nice... :]

xx
jes

Barren Earth - Our Twilight

2009-10-22T15:23:00.001-05:00

When fussing together the powers of light and dark what are the ending results? Well why not "Our Twilight" by death metallers Barren Earth.

This effect of progressive folk textured with death metal is an instant inspiration source that has been devoured by absolutely everything from Opeth down to Pink Floyd. The heavier sides consist of intense material sounding a lot like Paradise Lost meets Jehtro Tull. Among other psychedelic rock and Finnish styling’s this fine combination consists not only if unique music captivities but a journey that's about to begin.

Pas the misty soaked atmosphere of the melodic brutality and keyboard textures lays "Our Twilight" an eye sore insight into the most intensifying melodic death metal capable. The music surrounds your head bashing it into your skull until blood has poured out, spelling out the names of each brutalizing tune imaginable.

For instance, "Floodred, this song instantly showcases the description I just foretold about the pouring blood, hence the music begins to build up into an overlapping chaos of music that has the vocal chords being cut into pieces its growls and grunts echoing against the instrument's doing's the guitars soloing riffs running into the bass lines that both fall flat as soon as the drums come thundering right along in.

The music builds up fast and catchy which keeps the music constantly flowing, flowing right on into "The Flame Of Serenity", and "Jewel", both of which captures the music altogether with its catchy but fast racing tone and texture that overpowers the music overall - exposing its creativeness sounding precisely just like Dimmu Borgir with the keyboarding flare, and vocal uniqueness sounding a lot like Belphgor. Barren Earth's style captures the band's essence all around and is a band with out-going creativeness that will make metal a lot more open-minded.

Sexy AND Talented: Punk Rock’s Newest Goddess, The Fabulous Miss Wendy

2009-10-20T20:53:00.000-05:00

This twenty-two -year-old bursts onto the scene with a “fabulous” self-titled debut album.

Hollywood, CA, October 20 2009—Watch out, Courtney Love and Gwen Stefani—there’s a new punk rock princess in town, and her name is The Fabulous Miss Wendy. And while Revolver magazine called her “the sexiest rock star ever,” the real news is the talent for singing, songwriting and guitar she brings to her catchy, addictive brand of punk-rock-pop with an edge.

Inspired by old-school punk acts like the Misfits, The Dead Kennedys, and The Ramones, Los Angeles-native Wendy picked up a guitar at the age of ten. A few years later, she beat out hundreds of other girls to nab the lead spot in a Nickelodeon all-girl rock band, where she met future TFMW bassist/keyboardist Claire Elizabeth. After finishing high school, The Fabulous Miss Wendy really got busy: she attended the Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, traveled to Iraq to play for U.S. troops, made it to third place in the U.S. “World Battle of the Bands” Competition, and won a VH1 Recommended Artist Award—and, of course, wrote and recorded all ten tracks of her debut album.

Wendy describes her self-titled debut as a “coming of age story” about a young girl’s journey through adolescence and troubled relationships. The sound is all sassy, punky fun, with a splash of Seattle grunge rock, while the lyrics, according to SugarBuzz magazine, “work like screenplays of misguided love, sex and anger and fun.”

The Fabulous Miss Wendy’s first album was produced by Devo’s Jerry Casale and features NIN, Weezer and A Perfect Circle drummer Josh Freese. For her live performances, Wendy needed backup musicians of equal caliber, so she called on fellow Nickelodeon band member Claire Elizabeth to play bass. Wendy’s manager, former A&R guru of Geffen Records Tom Zutaut, recruited Sean Winchester on drums, and her mentor/ supporter, L.A. music icon Kim Fowley, suggested rhythm guitarist Gretel . With this talented trio behind her, Wendy puts her lead guitar and vocal talent on display for shows at famed L.A. venues like The Whisky, The Dragonfly and The Keyclub.

In addition to her kickass live performances, The Fab Miss Wendy has also grabbed the attention of radio and TV stations and rock critics. Famed L.A. radio stations KROQ and Indie 103.1, as well as The Monkey in Seattle and Sirius Satellite Radio, have all spun Wendy’s tunes. Six of the debut album’s tracks have been played on VH1 Shows, and TFMW also performed on B In Tune TV to a national audience of more than 200 million households. And Miss Wendy’s received shout-outs in Revolver, LA Weekly, Lost Anarchy Magazine, Fringe Magazine, NME, Rock City News, and CDBaby (they’re the ones who warned Courtney Love and Gwen Stefani to “start running immediately”).

No question about it—The Fabulous Miss Wendy is going places. You can check out her music at www.thefabulousmisswendy.com and www.myspace.com/thefabulousmisswendy. Her debut CD is available at iTunes, and she’ll be performing live at The Cat Club in Hollywood on October 24th.

Architects Royal Interview

2009-10-20T16:48:00.005-05:00

The Architects's frontman Samuel Carter spoke to me recently via email discussing his becoming into The Architect's family circle along with the band's upcoming plans, latest release, and what you can expect when attending one of their live performances.

1. Introduce yourself, tell me what you do in Architects and how long has the band been together?

Sam: My name is Samuel Carter and I sing for Architects, the band was formed in 2004 and I joined in last 06 early 07, when there old vocalist decided to leave the band .

2. Where's the band from and what's the music scene like there, any bands you'd recommend?

Sam: We live in Brighton, England and its amazing the scene isn't as buzzing as it once was but there's always shows on busy night life and something to do there's still a few good bands from Brighton e.g. The Ghost of a Thousand, Brides, The Mire, Dead Swans.

3. Is there any story or concept behind the title "Hollow Crown"?

Sam: The concept behind Hollow Crown, was that we were all getting fed up with certain people/bands getting everything so easily - not really working for it, walking around with these false crowns! While we were and still are working as hard a possible and felt like we were getting nowhere, and the title got people to stand up and realize who we were and what we wanted to achieve! People to see a hard working real down to earth band!

4. With so many hardcore bands out there, what do you think makes Architects stand out from the crowd?

Sam: Were not so preachy pretentious hardcore band! We don't shove our views down people throats, we play music we love there's no egos no image we just want to play music we love.

5. What can briefly be said about your latest music video for "Follow The Water"?

Sam: Follow the water video was really fun! We decided to rent this venue that we used to play a bunch put on a show after and kids just went off! I mean they went instantly off such a fun day we had a really great time!

6. You're currently touring around the U.K. as apart of the NEVER SAY DIE 2009 Tour, how is that run treating everybody.

Sam: Were actually in Canada right now, we start the UK next week we're really excited to get back to the UK/Europe its gona be a lot of fun!

ARCHITECTS - Follow The Water (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

ARCHITECTS [FOLLOW THE WATER VIDEO ONLINE] | MySpace Video

7. Do you consider Architects to be a Christian band? Do you feel affiliated in any way to this term?

Sam: Were not a Christian band! None of us are Christians so I'd hope nobody would affiliate us with that.

8. What can one expect from a live Architects show?

Sam: A lot of energy and fun! We always put on the best show we can! No matter how many people or how long we've been on tour.

9. Will the Architects be playing in the U.S. anytime soon.

Sam: We just got off a 6 week tour with etid/bmth but hopefully well be back soon, we had a lot of fun this time round so were pumped to get back.

10. What would you like a listener to remember the mot after hearing "hollow crown" all the way through for the first time?

Sam: I would like the listener to go back to the start and listen to the record again and again until they knew all the words and came to one of our shows.

11. Have any plans for the remainder of this year, and what should we expect from you come next year?

Sam: After the Never Say Die Tour we are going to take a bit of time off to write our new record, and just generally be at home and take some time to relax. But don't you worry well be back in the New Year!

12. Any final words of wisdom?

Sam: Thank you for checking us out! Spread the word and tell all of your friends!

Architects - Hollow Crown

2009-10-19T19:06:00.000-05:00

Architects began like most bands would consider themselves as one type of genre and then be thrown from the front of the line to the center to the very back but where exactly does this leave the Architects? Standing precisely in the center of course, since the formation in late 2004, the band has won some great recognition from various press publications throughout the world - have given the chance many times to share the stage with bands ranging from Bring Me the Horizon, to Emmure down to Parkway Drive plus many more.

This time around the Architects's third album titled "Hollow Crown," is on the horizon of our enjoyment with its compelling riffs and desperate screaming vocals thrown in between, minus the handful of break downs found spread out within the mix – the band’s progressive sound takes a step forward allowing the bass guitar’s actions to perform an asymmetric rhythm, flirting constantly with the singer's special vocal tactics. Sam Carter's style has been worked upon quite well having what we listen to be as smooth as possible with its quick changes to the clean sided vocals creating an on/off method.

The Architects have become one of those bands that follow upon the style they have chose to throw out, and hand picking a selection of favorites is not bearable because each of these songs crafts together some extreme potential and own uniqueness, so best thing would to do would be to go check out this band for yourself because you'd regret it if you didn't.

Through the Eyes of FIVEOHfirst

2009-10-19T15:05:00.001-05:00

Hardcore pop punks front man Lars of FIVEOHfirst talked to me via email to answer some brief questions regarding how the band came to be, their musical influences, what there upcoming plans consist of along with everything else thrown in between to even it all out when it was all said and done.

1. What type of band are you?

Lars: All of us are really good friends so that makes working together musically easy because we are very open to criticism. We love to hang out and have fun and we would do anything for anyone that is a fan of our music.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

Lars: In high school we were all part of different bands and we were all in music classes together. In senior year we decided to start FIVEOHfirst in the Spring of 2006. Despite being at several different colleges across Illinois we've managed to keep writing new music playing shows. We're looking forward to being done with school and continue to promote and extend our fan base.

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

Lars: Our musical influences consist of New Found Glory, Fall Out Boy, Four Year Strong, A Day to Remember, Blink-182, All Time Low, Muse, The Devil Wears Prada, Haste The Day, Hit The Lights, Cartel, Ice Nine Kills, The Matches, You Me and Everyone We Know, UVERworld Non-musical influences: Our family and friends are our biggest influences. They've been there for us ever since we started and they have always been supportive.

4. What are your dreams and goals?

Lars: Our dreams and goals would that all of us agree that we would love to be able to tour full time and do nothing but FIVEOHfirst and make a living. We would also really like to get the opportunity to tour over seas in Europe and Japan in the near future.

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

Lars: Writing for us is a big group effort. it always starts with someone bringing an idea to everyone and we go from there. We feel like our lyrics a lot of times will be about a very specific moment in our lives that has had a big affect on us. but we try and get across that emotion so that anyone who is listening can connect in some way.

6. How do you promote your band and shows?

Lars: We have been using myspace and facebook as a way to promote for shows but we've found its a lot more effective going to other bands shows and just talking to their friends and fans.

7. Describe your show, visual and musically.

Lars: Visually we try to put on a very energetic and intense live performance. We put all our energy into getting the crowd into the music as well as giving them something exciting to watch.

8. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

Lars: We think that record labels still serve a very important purpose in the music industry and that there are alot of new ways to get exposure as a band out there and it's just a matter of time till some takes advantage it.

9. Tell us a story about a day in your life.

Lars: A day for FIVEOHfirst starts in the afternoon with either some practice or writing. If we don't have a show the party starts early. If we have a show we probably will start partying anyway except for Lars cause he will be running around trying to keep everyone from doing anything to out of control. Somewhere along the line Chris will yell a lot, Steve will get upset, and Adrian will try and drink anything and everything he sees, Rizzo will start making Jager Bombs, and Danny will just sit somewhere and look cute.

10. What inspires you to do what you do?

Lars: What inspires us the most is seeing other bands that are having fun doing what they love and people that enjoy and can relate to our music. Two other big influences that do not get the credit they deserve is food and partying.

11. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

Lars: Advice for fellow bands: Biggest thing is to be realistic. If you love what you're doing and who you're doing it with keep doing it. Never give up, never take yourselves to seriously, and never let anyone tell you that your wasting your time.

12. How does music affect you and the world around you?

Lars: We've all been involved in music our whole lives and it is a big part of who we have all become as individuals. Music is one of those things that is never perfect and can always change. One of the most exciting parts of playing together is being able to grow musically and really learn how to get a truly unique sound and that's something that will take us a long time together.

13. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

Lars: The best thing about playing a show is being able to get out in front of people and make new friends. Of course there's always the possibility that the stage and sound setup will not be what you expected, but most of the time the positive's take out the negatives. Oh yea! and drink specials rock!

14. Tell us about your next shows and why we should be there.

Lars: Our next show is going to be the November 28th the weekend after thanksgiving in Carol Stream, IL. People should come because it is going to be our first show in our hometown since the summer and we will be playing a couple new songs.

15. Any last words?

Lars: We are FIVEOHfirst. We are addicted to Mexican food, we like tiger woods gold, we like to party, we like to play music, and we love meeting new people. Check us out on itunes. If you like it? Tell your friends.

Stoneman's Interview Request

2009-10-19T14:07:00.001-05:00

Frontman Mikki of metal rock n roll act Stoneman conducted an interview with me via email to discuss the band's upbringing, music, and upcoming plans for the rest of 09 into 2010.

1. What type of band are you?

A very good looking one! hahaha

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

We met 4 years ago in Zurich nightlife and decided to reign the world!

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

A few month ago I would have said drugs but to be honest, we got older and much better so we are inspired by everything which is dark , hard and loud!

4. What are your dreams and goals?

To finish our third album soon and that people love it the same as we do, it will become more than a masterpiece!

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

The whole band! everybody is doing his part but Dave as our bass player an producer is doing the most...the songs are about war, hate, darkness and of course girls! Normal live things!

Stoneman "wer ficken will"

STONEMAN (official) | MySpace Music Videos

6. How do you promote your band and shows?

We are happy to have people doing thoe things for us. We are very bad business guys!

7. Describe your show, visual and musically.

To see us live is a thing i would recommend everybody. We are absolutely motivated to kick your ass!

8. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

Good bands and labels will survive, the others will die and burn in hell!

9. Tell us a story about a day in your life.

No!

10. What inspires you to do what you do?

Everybody i hate and there is lots of em!

STONEMAN "devil in a gucci dress"

STONEMAN (official) | MySpace Music Videos

11. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

Be yourselves and don't run after idols there is no second Guns n Roses, Metallica and specially: THERE IS NO GOD!

12. How does music affect you and the world around you?

Its all i am interested ind it makes my day and destroys it in the same second! i am an addict!

13. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

There is no negative thing to say about playing shows! nothing is better than being on stage!

14. Tell us about your next shows and why we should be there.

Next shows will be in summer 2010. We have to finish our album first! why you should come? cause we are 100% rock n roll and if you don't like it, go and see Jay Z!

15. Any last words?

Be patient friends, i know, its fucking long time ago you saw and heard of us but we will be back soon and we will blow you away!

Across The Sun's Pestilence & Rapture Journey

2009-10-17T15:35:00.002-05:00

When it comes to newbie’s what is to be expected of them, well nothing really because they're not quite familiar with the whole picture as of yet. But in this case this handful of newbie’s - Brandon Davis (Vocals), Alan Ashcraft (Drums), Shane Murray (Keys), Colin St. Claire (Bass) and Sam Hafer (Guitars), have brought out some uniqueness all their own, calling themselves Across The Sun.

Since the formation in 2004, Across The Sun has maintained their status as the "hardest working band in the Northwest" this leaving them a few years to unleash not only one but two highly acclaimed EP's - both garnered to the local and national media's attention's span, that they've received radio airplay along with sharing the stage with some of today's most notorious acts around.

Across The Sun's out-standing talent is immediately obvious when you break it down on their latest addition "Pestilence & Rapture." Six songs of absolute progression and obsession, containing all the massive buzz surrounding these hard hitting rock stars, opening tune "May Silence Keep You," breaks away showcasing the band's musical influences upfront and personal 100% - this meaning the instruments sound uptight and bring out the music a lot more narrow and heavier having the vocal chords to clash against the music altogether unleashing this unbearable sound wave of music.

As far as the other 5 remainders go, "Angelic Deception," along with "The Illusionist," both bring out that same airwaves that As I Lay Dying and Bullet for my Valentine tend to do, having the music being obsessively heavy at the start and thrown in bits and pieces in between and then mellows it all out with its crisp clear vocal chords with minor scarps and screams. "Pestilence & Rapture," is a force field of static shock that continues to electrify their surroundings everywhere they strike, making their marks highly recognizable.

This Week's Play List

2009-10-12T11:09:00.002-05:00

All songs from: Tegan and Sara/Yeah Yeah Yeahs/Metric/La Roux/Uh Huh Her/Mika/Silversun Pickups quickmix on Pandora.

1. "Zero"- Yeah Yeah Yeahs
2. "Sick Muse"- Metric
3. "I Won't Be Left"- Tegan and Sara
4. "Photobooth"- Death Cab For Cutie
5. "Easy Love"- Mstrkrft
6. "Gravity Rides Everything"- Modest Mouse
7. "Human"- The Killers
8. "Mushaboom"- Feist
9. "Painted By Numbers"- The Sounds
10. "Sleeping Lessons"- The Shins
11. "Good People"- Jack Johnson
12. "Tonight, Tonight"- Smashing Pumpkins
13. "All Is Love"- Karen O and the Kids
14. "Reptilia"- The Strokes
15. "The Calculation"- Regina Spektor

Skeletonwitch Skulltastic Interview

2009-10-11T20:14:00.005-05:00

Evan and Scott of Ohio metallers Skeletonwitch caught up with me recently at their Pomona, California stop out at the Glass House to discuss briefly about the new album, current touring conditions, and everything else thrown in between.

1. How is the current tour going?

Evan: I guess you saw us what a year ago? Oh then 3 months ago, it’s great everybody is great, we’ve been having a good time and the crowds have been great just enjoying it it’s been awesome.
Scott: I second that – everybody from Alexi to the bus driver’s everyone has been nice and making us feel welcomed, nobody is a dick, expect to each other.

2. I saw via your Twitter you had all gotten drunk before playing a show?

Evan: You mean every day we play a show?
Scott: That was at the West Edmonton Mall, in Edmonton, Alberta.
Evan: What had happened is that we had drunk all of our beer, so there was no more beer, since we had all drank it all so that was weird.
Scott: That was the first time I had posted on Twitter actually, that tends to happen a lot but all of the guys love to drink beer.

3. What can be said that hasn't been said about "Breathing The Fire,"?

Evan: That has not been said?
Scott: Oh let me tell you, Jack Endino, that did the artwork probably has the highest skull quotation.
Evan: Appropriately, 60 skulls, on the front and back,
Scott: It Jack Endino counted all of them.

4. Were there any songs that didn't make the record that you had wished had made it?

Evan: Nope, everything that got written made it.
Scott: Nope we didn’t write 60 songs, and didn’t have our producer help us out, like having some leftovers lying around no, we wrote what we did, and that’s what got on it.

5. Any particular favorites you have off it?

Evan: Stand, Fight and Die.
Scott: Repulsive Salvation, that’s one of my favorites.

6. What do you think sets you apart from all the other metal bands out right now?

Evan: Probably the dick sizes.
Scott: I guess I would say, people don’t know where to place us. I’ve read all over, that death metal band Skeletonwitch, Black metal band Skeletonwitch, Thrash metal band SKeletonwitch, they can’t properly place us in the right spotlight. Basically everybody thinks we’re something we’re not pretty much.

7. Have any plans for Halloween?

Evan: We’re gona be on tour with Trap Them, Toxic Holocaust, and The Black Dahlia Murder, over Halloween. Don’t think we’re going to be wearing any crazy costumes or anything like that. But before we’ve played shows on Halloween we use to dress up as another type of band and play as a cover band which was cool but this year we’ll be playing on Halloween.

8. If you had a chance to do a cover of a beloved childhood classic which would you pick and why?

Evan: I’m not a fan of covers actually but good question.
Scott: I don’t have any desire to do any type of cover. Honestly we’ve thrown around ideas here and there, Immortal, Guns n Roses, etc. We like doing what we do, those tracks are already made and we can’t fill someone else's shoes.

9. Speaking of childhood, if you had to run into yourself 10 years ago and tell yourself what you're in store for what would you say?

Evan: I don’t know, just buckle down, and practice, practice, practice.
Scott: I’m 26 so at 16, I would tell myself don’t get those 2 underage consumptions you’re about to get, that’s won’t be good on your behalf.
Evan: The Doc told Marty McFly, "Don’t get in contact with your past self, or it’ll forever change the events in the future."
Scott: I agree with that.

10. Anything else you'd like to add?

Evan: Well we have a new record out, and its awesome kids are coming out to our shows, and that means a lot to us.
Scott: Thanks for supporting our band, and helping us do what we love doing.

Skeletonwitch Interview

The Sea of Black: Children Of Bodom, The Black Dahlia, Murder and Skeletonwitch

2009-10-11T18:11:00.000-05:00

Ever attended a mini block party? Well now is your chance at experiencing your first one, how about joining in on all the fun with the spiraling circle of black! Hence I mean the crowd of people dressed all in black proudly expressing their love and devotion to one of the three musical acts that were set to set the stage that forsaken night out at the Glass House in chilly Pomona, California.

First up was an act from Athens, Ohio one who dislikes the fact that not too many people are aware of what type of music they actually perform, so I guess it would just be your plain old heavy metal if I do say so myself but a very upgraded version. Any who, Ohio’s Anthener’s Skeletonwitch brought on the fiery blaze for a non-stop 30 minutes bringing on the skull crushing beer drinking sensation left and right, as the crowd interacted from all various angles - singing such songs off “Beyond the Permafrost,” and new comer, “Breathing the Fire,” due out on October 13th. Some of the head crushing tunes consisted of “Soul Thrashing Black Sorcery,” “Within My Blood,” the title track, along with a douse of double trouble off the newbie album, “Crushed Beyond Dust,” and “Strangled By Unseen Hands”. The front man declaring his statements throughout the set – wrapping it all up when it came to a closing point with “Smoke Weed, Drink Beer, and Eat Some F**king Pussy”.

Setlist
01. Sacrifice for the Slaughtergod
02. Fire From the Sky
03. Crushed Beyond Dust
04. Upon Wings of Black
05. Beyond the Permafrost
06. Submit To The Suffering
07. Soul Thrashing Black Sorcery
08. The Despoiler Of Human Life
09. Within My Blood

Next up was a band everybody was in “die-hopes” of seeing and of course they did, known simply as The Black Dahlia Murder who threw together a 45 minute set capacity that couldn’t hold it altogether when it came to this aggressive crowd of metal heads shouting and being thrown around like a rag dolls singing along to each and every song that came pulsing out of the vocalist along with his band mates to top it all off. Once they set had came to a closing point the final contender of the night that everyone was obviously here for, was up for their hour and a half glory.

Setlist
01. Everything Went Black
02. Black Valor
03. Closed Casket Requiem
04. Necropolis
05. A Vulgar Picture
06. What A Horrible Night to Have A Curse
07. Christ Deformed
08. Miasma
09. Funeral Thirst

Finland’s finest musicians around being led by one of the most talented guitarists around, Alexi Laiho, Children of Bodom was the main attraction of tonight’s metal frenzy, starting the show off with “Living Dead Beat,” rolling right into “Hellhounds On My Trail,” finishing off the introduction with classic but true “Silent Night, Bodom Night.” But that’s not all, the band continued their classic chaos with “Hate Me,” going down the lines of other top notch tunes, “Bodom After Midnight,” “Are You Dead Yet?,” “Blooddrunk,” rounding it all off with “Hate Crew Deathroll,” dedicated to all the hardcore Children Of Bodom fans within the sea of black.

The night closed off to being as I foretold it would, a “sea of black,” and indeed that’s what it was and had becoming, its waves of triumph pushing over anyone/anything that came in its path of destruction.

Setlist
01. Living Dead Beat
02. Hellhounds On My Trail
03. Silent Night, Bodom Night
04. Hate Me!
05. Follow The Reaper
06. Lake Bodom
07. Bodom After Midnight
08. Are You Dead Yet?
09. Blooddrunk
10. Angels Don't Kill
11. In Your Face
12. Children Of Decadence
13-.Bodom Beach Terror
14. Downfall
-----------
15. Everytime I Die
16. Hate Crew Deathroll

Written/Photographed By: Natalie Perez

A Darkened Ritual is a Black Ritual: The Interview

2009-10-08T17:49:00.003-05:00

Black Ritual is a Southern act with style and craftsmanship blending together thrash with hardcore to create unique melodies that has invaded their hometowns and now wishes to invade you. The band like many has gone through the band bases finding a name, line-up changes, brief touring and most of all trying to land that record deal. Black Ritual has gone through the darkness of Hell itself and has arisen to overcome everything. Leading up to a point on which their bassist (Eddie Cousins) spoke to me about everything the band has gone through and how the darkness came to be known merely as Black Ritual.

1. What type of band are you?

E-rock: We’re a heavy metal band we’re not trying to fit in any genre. We compose songs within the thrash/hardcore/melodies every song we have is totally different in its own unique way. We have a definite southern feel that provides the pride in ourselves to live on. To do what we do playing shows, being full of energy people will notice that quality studio sound and respect you for it.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

E-rock: We’ve been together for 6 years and counting right here from Charlotte N.C. Having gone through some member changes but have managed to keep the four original members through that time period. So we feel lucky for that. We are currently working on our second CD which should be out by the end of the year.

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

E-rock: That would be a wide range of acts, Pantera, Testament, Acid Bath, Black Sabbath, As I Lay Dying, plus many more. We are very diverse in our musical influences I believe that’s what let us write the music we love. With every song we create it has its own uniqueness and riff that reminds you of the past, present and future.

4. What are your dreams and goals?

E-rock: We definitely want to take our dreams as far as we can. Get a record deal but mainly we want to hit the road out on the East Coast and then make our way out West until we’ve circled the entire globe. We’d love to go through the hell of touring, bus, food, the whole package deal. We shall of course see what’s in store for the future, and have to work just write music.

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

E-rock: As far as lyrics go our singer Chuck writes them all. He writes about real life situations, drugs, women, pretty much your main guy type of material you’d expect to hear from a metalhead. Music wise we usually start with a few guitar riffs then blend them altogether with each person’s ideas or opinion’s on how that song should progress and end.

6. What's your opinion of our President?

E-rock: Well my personal opinion (I can’t speak for them on that) I voted for Obama because I believed it was time for some kind of change in this world. Anything had to be better than what we already had.

7. How do you promote your band and shows?

E-rock: Well we try to do as much as possible - word of mouth--texting, MySpace mostly we try to have radio spots as much as we can. To make big money not just to play in our home town more than once a month or less, we want to keep our fans wanting to come back to see us. The music scene is still building and needs a lot of work. We’ve intended to change as much as possible while we’re still on this Earth playing. Our music can be found at You can find us just about anywhere online, CDBaby.com, iTunes, Napster, Reverbnation, Facebook, Purevolume, and MyXer.

8. Describe your show, visual and musically.

E-rock: Musically we’re trying to sound as good as we can be loud and in your face. We’ve put a lot of pride into our live shows, having the people walking away saying “Now that was a real concert”. Basically we want to rock out as hard as we can – many fans (men) have left the pit with something broken or in pain -like Dimebag Darrel said “If you haven’t left the stage sweating you ain’t done nothing.”

9. What do you think about downloading music online?

E-rock: I think it’s awesome it’s nice for bands well known and locally to have their music available on the worldwide web. It ends up hurting the record labels most of all but who cares about them anyway? If all there out for is to make money off you and then throw you away that’s not what the music industry is about.

10. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

E-rock: Well as I mentioned above, it’s hard to say without actually dealing with them as of yet. But it’s a money scheme I’m pretty sure. Even if it’s harder for bands like us who are not mainstream enough. For instance Top Forty Radio I think is eventually going to be a past time. Just like MTV’s type of music. But definitely for us the metalheads and underground hardcore scene to me it’s all about getting on the road with a bigger act that will pick you up and let you on a tour spreading the word of your name/whereabouts.

11. What's your claim to fame?

E-rock: I don’t know if we have one yet. I think for us it’s being able to stick together through all of the crap we’ve faced thus far. Not going down the lines of breaking up like so many bands tend to do after a year or so.

12. Tell us a story about a day in your life.

E-rock: Well work sucks everyone knows that unless you love the work you do. But to come home and think about what we can do as a band to make a name for ourselves. Think about girls, drinking, and then start it all over again. Two of us have a family, wife, and kids so that’s the number one factor to think about. As for the rest of us, we’re trying to get to that point! Otherwise we’re caught up in practicing, practicing, and more practicing!

13. What inspires you to do what you do?

E-rock: Our dreams, goals, just the love of music we’ve all devoted our whole lives for many years now. Now is not the time to give up. The way our fans feel about us – makes a real difference in a young metalhead’s life. Can’t forget about the love of the stage and that spotlight that shines down making you remember why you’re doing this to begin with.

14. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

E-rock: Get rid of the crazy girl who’s about to break you up. Haha – play as many shows as possible pay your dues and don’t try to go to the top of your game until you have what it takes.

15. What are some of your pet peeves?

E-rock: Oh there’s a lot….. Those types of cookie cutter type bands that can’t be original. Down to fans that leave right after their band performs instead of hanging around and talking to us. Right to bands that just sit around waiting to be paid for their work instead of interacting with the people around them.

16. How does music affect you and the world around you?

E-rock: Music is my life it’s an extreme feeling from good to bad. Everything I do revolves around music in one way or another. No matter if it’d be a Friday or Saturday night, or inside my band’s room the thought of music is constantly streaming throughout my body.

17. What's new in the recording of your music?

E-rock: We have been recording with Jaime King from Winston Salem - he’s worked with Between the Buried and Me, Seneca. All bands who have already gotten signed. So it’s brought our recording sound to a whole new level. We’re very excited about it, being able to see what the future holds for us.

18. What are the biggest obstacles for bands?

E-rock: I think it all depends on where you live. Some cities bands have more opportunities than others. With the well known scenes there, now around here it’s getting people out to shows to support all the bands around. When it comes to Black Ritual it’s the time for the killer. If we had all day to do just band stuff, writing, playing etc, it would make the world a lot different for us.

19. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

E-rock: The best is the people, seeing the fans drinking, having a good time rockin out to your songs and wanting to hang out and talk with ya -“The roar of the crowd." The worst would probably be not making much money for all your hard work.

20. Tell us about your next shows and why we should be there.

E-rock: We’re playing an awesome club in Charlotte called Amos Southend on August 28th. They have done nothing but support this band along with Tremont music hall. If you came to a Black Ritual show you will be hooked. We’ve turned many people over to the dark side.

21. What types of beers do you prefer to drink?

E-rock: I’d have to say Jager Bombs and Budweiser those are the drinks that get the real rockstar bursting out of you making you want to lose your mind from the inside out all night long after a great performance.

22. Any last words?

E-rock: I want to party with you Natalie!. :)

Cerebrum Interview Exposure

2009-10-08T15:11:00.000-05:00

The guys of Cerebrum spoke to me recently about the band's formation, their latest album, along with everything else thrown in between to keep the conversation rolling without any need for a break. Catch all the fun exposure below.

1. What type of band are you?

Our label describes our sound as a monstrous collision between old-school technical ethics and state-of-the-art sonics. We like that.

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

Cerebrum was formed in Athens/Greece around 2002 by Mike Papadopoulos and Jim Touras. Apollon Zygomalas joined in the same year as the lead singer.We released a demo in 2005 and in 2007 we recorded our debut album 'Spectral Extravagance' .On early 2009 we signed a deal with Czech label Lacerated Enemy records and here we are now with the release of the album.

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

Well, our music influences vary alot and include '70s progressive/psychedelic rock, rock n roll, jazz rock, fusion, ambient, folk and of course thrash and death metal ,amongst many other things. Now, the non-musical influences are much much more. Everyday life is our biggest influence..and then you have energy & the universe, and nature, and the animals, and books and dreams and mainly everything around us,within us and above us.

4. What are your dreams and goals?

From the beginning of our creation, we were 3 friends with the same visions and thoughts:to create a band and play the music we like.Since then, energy seems to flow so well within the squad leading us to the present times with the release of our record. We're soon to perform live shows in Greece and Europe and we've already created 90% of the 2nd album, so you could say we are already living our dream with this whole thing! so let's see how things'll roll, hehe!

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

Music is written by Mike and Jim.Lyrics are written by Apollon and through them he represents our cosmotheory on life itself based on human values and ethics, our universe and mother nature, perception and reality, altered states of consciousness, dreams and the spirit realm.

6. What's your opinion of our President?

Haha....Well,he's just like the rest of the US presidents-a puppet on a string,manipulated by the men behind the curtains.And what's your opinion of the Bilderberg Group, the Trilateral Commission and 33rd degree free masons?

7. How do you promote your band and shows?

Our label makes the promotion and is soon to arrange a European tour for us. There are also plans for some shows here in Greece in the next couple of months.

8. Describe your show, visual and musically.

Well,we never performed live before,since we didn't had a drummer.Our gigs in Greece are gonna be our first shows ever and we're really looking forward to go out there and transmit some astral sick vibes for you.

9. What do you think about downloading music online?

Well,what can you do about it.It's the future and it's now. Eventually it's a good thing, a thing of sharing and exchanging information.Especially when searching on old rare albums that are out of stock etc. We're all record collectors and still buy music, but it's the new generations that are gonna get used to another way of living, forgetting soon all there is about cassette,vinyl and CDs.

10. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

It's a sick industry, as most of the industries nowadays..It lacks people with good taste I think.Only some small descent labels seem to manage good, while most of the big ones only care about promoting 'cheap' commercial shit and making millions of dollars, manipulating their artists.But that system is soon to change.

11. What's your claim to fame?

Well, normally bands that deserved fame never got it, and vice versa so you cant really claim or expect anything. We just play the music we like and if someones digs it, we're so happy and grateful,that's it!

12. Tell us a story about a day in your life.

There are alot of stories to tell.

13. What inspires you to do what you do?

Our love for music and the miracle of life. This crazy surreal world and reality we live in, this whole universal energy and laws of it, the Oneness in all and the order through chaos.It's so amazing..

14. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

Well we don't think we are in the position of giving advice to anyone. But Being honest with yourselves, chasing your dreams, respecting and loving whatever you do, really helps a lot!

15. What are some of your pet peeves?

Can't think something that really annoy us.Maybe that we don't want anyone to tell us what to do and interfere with our music. haha

16. How does music affect you and the world around you?

Its one of the most important, if not the most important thing in our lives.Creating ,listening and traveling through music is what gives us the energy to go on.

17. What's new in the recording of your music?

As we told you,the second album is almost ready.We hope to release it somewhere within '10.

18. What are the biggest obstacles for bands?

If you don't play commercial music then the biggest problem is to be heard.And the music industry of course, haha.

19. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

There is no bad thing about playing your music in front of people wherever possible,clubs arenas whatever.

20. Tell us about your next shows and why we should be there.

There are plans for several shows here in Greece and an European tour at the end of 2009.We are also trying to arrange something for the Us too. If you like our music or progressive music in general, we think you ll have a good time.geia mas

21. Any last words?

Thank you very much for the interview,hope you all enjoy the album! viva

A Date with a Helsinki Vampire: Jyrki 69 Interviewed

2009-10-07T21:41:00.006-05:00

Do you ever wonder about musicians and what secrets lay behind those closed doors after they’ve departed the stage? Well now the time has arisen and the secrets of the Vampire realm have been foretold and the one and only Helsinki Vampires are back from the dead, but not just back, back in blood. Frontman Jyrki69 spoke to me about The 69 Eyes U.S. return along with the undead truth about the current album and his past creations.

1. Welcome back to the U.S., how does it feel to be back in California?

Jyrki 69: It’s awesome, Hollywood in general we consider this our second home, this year we spent over 3 months during the spring time recording our newest album so it’s great to finally be able to come back and play a show. It’s never frustrated to hang out in Hollywood and to have fans recognize you and come up and ask you “What are you doing here – why aren’t you playing a show?” at that time there was no way to do anything but now it’s the time and we’re now in Hollywood, so The 69 Eyes and are back in blood!

2. "Back in Blood," came out last month and it's also your tenth to date, how does that make you feel - do you think your music has grown since when you first started?

Jyrki 69: Actually you’re mistaken there is a little confusion everywhere it’s actually our ninth album, I’m excited to do the tenth album when the time arrives, and we have of course several compilations available but this is our nine studio album. Yes and no it’s the same sources of inspiration remains, the same rock n’ roll life remains, on the other hand of course. We’re better song writers, and I myself have written better lyrics, once in a while you make songs that last a little bit longer than others, like most of the songs within our set list, there are the ones we consider “our classics”. There are so many songs that could be on the next ten year compilation, with the way we’ve grown.

3. Can you briefly tell us about the whole concept for "Dead Girls Are Easy,”?

Jyrki 69: It was pure fun with Bam Margera, it was long lost Halloween weekend, the whole idea the name of the song, I just liked the title when I put together everything it represents the dead girls, these gothic girls who want to be dead and want to be a part of the undead and want to become Vampire girls. The story line is this classic old school 80s theme with this nerdy guy working and something strange happens to him when these Vampire girls come into his life. This video is much like the videos from the 80s – having that rockin style and positive atmosphere - all the videos of today have changed, with the bombs, bugs, a very depressing imagines, I’m a fan of the 80s videos so this video is just like those.

4. What was it like playing on Carson Daily back in 2006 - I'm not sure if you remember me, at that show but I was the girl in the audience who had waved to you, I had wanted to be on the bottom near the stage but couldn't get down there.

Jyrki 69: That was great that was one of those classic 69 Eyes moments that we were able to do that show, and hopefully we can return to those shows, it’s been an honor to be involved with these shows, (Carson Daily) and to have The End Records (US Label) who have done great promotion for us, so I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re watching T.V. that you see us performing, we’ll be able to set something up pretty soon and also the next time you wave I will know it is you.

5. In my opinion I've always pictured you guys doing a U.S. tour with H.I.M. would you ever be able to make that happen - I know you guys toured with Cradle of Filth back in 06.

Jyrki 69: That is something the fans are always asking, but I don’t think the bands are really excited about the idea. If you haven’t noticed the Finnish bands don’t really tour together and I don’t know why but that is something that we should considering doing because the fans keep asking about it. I haven’t heard any rumors so don’t think it’s going to happen anytime soon. As far as I understand the H.I.M. guys are recording their new album, and there are a lot of Finnish bands around here in Hollywood recording their new albums, so every rocker act is here in Hollywood right now and are from Finland so a very busy period for everybody right now.

6. What can you tell us about your comic book "Zombie Love: Vampires, Ghosts and the 69 Eyes"?

Jyrki 69: It’s just a compilation of my old stuff that I drew in the 80s as a teenager, during the night, most teens go out and get drunk for the first time and meet the opposite sex, I was this guy that spent my nights at home watching horror movies and listening to strange rock n’ roll music, like the real nerds Somehow these comics survived and the characters pretty much looks like our band and dressed in rocker appeal and the girls are drama queens so it’s not so far away from the world of the 69 Eyes. So I drew them and they still appear interesting so I put it altogether and that’s the book Zombie Love, and after 25 years, the kids still find this comic book amazing and it’s available at all of our shows so pick up a copy.

7. How about "Route 69," what can be said about that?

Jyrki 69: That’s a photograph book it’s done by this photographer named Ville Juurikkala, the guy who’s been taking pictures of a majority of Finnish rock bands over the years, H.I.M. Nightwish, and us, and back in 06 he traveled with us and took pictures and put out the book and it has pictures of Japan, Finland but mainly it’s about when we first traveled the states and how everything was different, a very big and exciting experience. It’s a great book filled with great memories.

8. Your known around the world as the "Helsinki Vampires", do you consider yourself a Vampire?

Jyrki 69: Well some strange reason I don’t age and I draw people’s attention to me I drive girls crazy especially those that know me. I like to hang out with sunglasses after dark as far as that goes I might be a Vampire but I won’t tell if I’m one or not. But don’t try old school tricks on me like holy water or garlic that won’t kill me. If you really want to destroy me, play me some anti-rock music, Beatles, Faith No More, Red Hot Chili Peppers, if you really want to throw me out of the party and kill me just throw on some bad music that should do it.

9. Anything else you'd like to add?

Jyrki 69: I hope people will have the chance to check out Back in Blood, because I think it’s our best record The 69 Eyes have done and we’re really proud of it. The theme involves Vampires, and the sound is awesome, and it’s interesting that The 69 Eyes have worked with American artists and producers, and a director for the video, it’s just something we’ve always wanted to do. Now that we’ve had the chance to do it, it’s become a great album but not just from The 69 Eyes but in general in the year 2009.

The 69 Eyes Interview

Play List for 10/07- 10/14

2009-10-07T19:38:00.000-05:00

PLAY LIST!
(Pandora/Zune quickmix & shuffle)

1. "The Kids Aren't Alright"- The Offspring
2 "Ghostfire"- Tiger Army
3. "Shiver"- Coldplay
4. "Starlight"- Muse
5. "Countdown"- Jupiter One
6. "Straight Edge"- Minor Threat
7. "What's My Age Again"- Blink 182
8. "Precious"- Depeche Mode
9. "Mardy Burn"- Arctic Monkeys
10. "Forget December"- Something Corporate
11. "Heads Will Roll"- Yeah Yeah Yeahs
12. "Substitution"- Silversun Pickups
13. "Black Panther"- Crystal Castles
14. "An Honest Mistake"- The Bravery
15. "Church Of Hot Addiction"- Cobra Starship

Helsinki Is Alive and Well – Let There Be Vampires: The 69 Eyes Los Angeles Return

2009-10-07T18:55:00.005-05:00

When it comes down to a concert what are the events that tend to happen? Well usually a set of bands perform and then there ‘s of course the headliners of the entire evening that perform last late into the night wrapping it altogether around midnight if not later. Then there are of course the party goers who like to relax and share stories and drink to help them feel more at ease, whereas the more heavier crowd set tends to take things to another level and cause an eruption of energetic proportions known as “mosh pits” or “crowd surfers”, in this case a mosh pit had taken place right up front of the minor heavily packed venue known as the Key Club on Sunset Blvd out in the forsaken streets of Hollywood.

But what is a “mosh pit” precisely - well it can be described as a group or single person that pushes other objects out of their way that being their way of enjoying the music. In some cases there are some people at these so-called concerts or as the headliners put it The 69 Eyes “rock show” – so what is there left to do but of course follow their instructions and rock out and have a good old jolly time right? You’re so wrong, at least that’s the deal for me, when the band broke out into those of lines of “rockin out” I did just that and my oh my did I have the best time, minus the little complaints I received but who cares it was well worth it. So as I was saying, I attended last night’s show that hailed to the Helsinki Vampires that had returned to the sunny but lately chilly California terrain.

Taking their Finland inspirations and blowing it totally out of hand - causing the man that brought them here of course Bam Margena to cause even more chaos as he briefly came atop the stage as the band was wrapping everything all together. But before the band could finish lets return to the beginning, of course the usual opening acts did there thing and then the headliners The 69 Eyes, had performed for a solid hour and a half set list that consisted of the new, old, and ancient tracks taking them back to when they first broke out into the music scene. “Brandon Lee,” “Gothic Girl,” “Feel Berlin,” Devils,” and more newer hits “Dead and Gone,” “Dead Girls Are Easy,” and most favorite “Lost Boys,” just to name a few.

Returning back to Bam" Margera comments before the band had finished up for the night, he came up said some words then walked off as the band returned to the stage and rocked out two more tunes before calling it a night, when it was all said and done, the moon outside told what was to become of that night and it was the night the Vampires had returned from the dead.

Setlist:
01. Back in Blood
02. Never Say Die
03. Lips Of Blood
04. Gothic Girl
05. Suspiria Snow White
06. Dance d'Amour
07. Kiss Me Undead
08. Feel Berlin
09. Dead N' Gone
10. The Chair
11. The Good, the Bad & the Undead
12. Brandon Lee
13. Dead Girls Are Easy
14. Devils
15. Perfect Skin
16. Lost Boys
17. Deuce

Written/Photographed By: Natalie Perez

Belphegor's Walpurgis Rites – Hexenwahn

2009-10-06T01:47:00.000-05:00

When it comes to the differences between black metal and death metal there aren't really much difference between the two to begin with, the music styling is the same, fast pacing guitar leads with energetic solos keeping the music in place while the vocalist either screeches or growls until blood has sprawled everywhere in sight. So what happens when the two come together fussing together, such force it cannot be contained any further? Well one word comes to mind, Belphegor.

Belphegor has emerged as one of the most extreme black/death metal combos to ever set foot upon the metal surface, let alone have the band members themselves describe their "hellride" as an "Supreme Death/ Black Metal Art”. But this hasn't stopped their domain musical chaos just yet, having gone through a collection of EPs, LPs, and DVDs as most bands tend to produce, the band has come to unleash the latest installment within their collection, "Walpurgis Rites - Hexenwahn".

Nine songs that bypass everything that their music stands for taken back their musical creations and burning it alive, by which "Hail The New Flesh," "The Crosses Made Of Bone," and "Enthralled Toxic Sabbath," are left within the ashes. These so-called ashes breathing in the absolute darkness that Belphegor has been determined to produce – the music played throughout these chosen songs consists of nothing more than your basic black/death duties, from fast enraging guitar leads, to breakdown solos that get overrun by the chorus chaos of the vocalist’s workmanship. The music keeps itself motivated throughout from start to finish maintaining an ever-lasting “fresh” sensation that echoes as each riff or lyric is taken apart, making Belphegor’s "Walpurgis Rites – Hexenwahn," have the rights it truly deserves.

Skeletonwitch's Breathing the Fire

2009-10-05T21:55:00.001-05:00

Anthens, Ohio has delivered something extreme to the table this year not anything, that they haven't done before though, this is just a continuation to a past creation, that being "Beyond the Permafrost," (2007) by metal thrashers Skeletonwitch. The Witch's almighty return has been a "making in the process" aside from all the numerous touring and believe it or not side spot on the Blackest of the Black Tour alongside classic rocker Danzig, which took place late last year, The Witch has gained the momentum required to create an ever-lasting exposure that is "Breathing The Fire," (2009) the third achievement to call their own and one they are most proud of.

Skeletonwitch headed off to Seattle hooking up with the legendary producer Jack Endino who's worked with such acts as, Nirvana, Soundgarden, and High On Fire, and make this fire ignite into a blaze of glory, these 12-tracks surely to not disappoint in any manner possible. For instance the thrashers rhythm’s, comes from "Where the Light Has Failed," and "Crushed Beyond Dust," while the melodic death metal portion settles in, with "Longing for Domination," and "Blinding Black Rage," throwing out some black metal "Released from the Catacombs," and some of your everyday modern metal with "Stand Fight and Die" easily tossing around the genre mixture to ease up the album's mixing process.

The Witch's style is unique and well-rounded creating an overpowering sensation of creativity that builds up the metal being presented, having a long-ever-lasting sense of solos and leads that can easily be well remembered each time through, in short let the Witch be heard!

Blessthefall Witness's Music

2009-09-30T21:41:00.000-05:00

Blessthefall were nothing but your average high school teenagers with one thing on their mind which was music! After a series of practice sessions that consisted of guitarist Mike Frisby, drummer Matt Traynor, vocalist Craig Mabbitt and bassist Jared Warth. Their founder Miles Bergsma had left to attend college, and the band had gone off to unleashed a three-track EP in mid-2005, adding guitarist Eric Lambert to form an out-standing solid line-up.

Once the EP was over with the next accomplishment for these youngsters was on the horizon and led them to release “His Last Walk” (2007) that caused vocalist Craig Mabbit to depart and leave the band to have the remaining musicians to fill in as the band embarked on numerous amounts of touring routes. But this minor discharge didn't stop Blessthefall from performing yet alone recording and writing their follow-up "Witness" - returning with a whole new style and led front man to guide the way, Beau Boken - the band had seen the light and the 12-tracks that followed.

"God Wears Gucci," 'To Hell and Back," "We'll Sleep When We're Dead," along with "What's Left Of Me," have all been featured upon the band's MySpace page causing a major uproar for all to enjoy and compare their previous achievements. But unlike the past the present is among us and these songs selections take on a whole new exposure to what Blessthefall is aiming towards, which is creating a unique but classy style molding to their much earlier works but this newer material – expands itself further along as far as lyrics, and music compression goes.

“Witness,” partakes in a whole new direction one being the direction they’ve been aiming towards for the longest time. When you break down this album a series of clashes occur of the band’s past and present demands. To which the music and lyrics directly speak to you as the music overwhelms the listeners causing a series of upbeat and rather catchy undertones that overlaps the music itself.

BerserkerfoX Has King Kong on Crack

2009-09-30T20:21:00.000-05:00

Four years said and done and a series of jam sessions later, death metal act BerserkerfoX came together in the hopes of progressing a style all their own, yet formatting a band to put their musical abilities to the test - by unleashing "King Kong On Crack" a brief EP expressing the band in all ways possible.

This EP immediately exposes itself with raw heart-pounding drum beats, with thrashing rhythm tones that clashes together the overall opening tune of "Flag of Blood". It starts off as your average headbanging tune but soon fades away as the guitar’s progressive style’s take over turning this progressive style of metal into a slip and slide roller coaster ride. "Self Professed Kings," has its moments but the music just lacks the energy and momentum that the first song maintained to create. Whereas this song and the closer tend to not have such an affect – no doubt about it BerserkerfoX does maintain its progressive style and side effects located here and there but the guitars tend to drown out most of the music playing in the background not filling in what’s really needed.

This EP isn't your average take on the metal genre, because it takes a lot of focus and thought to want to listen in on these tracks - each guitar line is well crafted and placed together with its simple riffs and drums pounding against your ear drum there is no remorse yet alone anything that hasn't been heard already. BerserkerfoX's "King Kong on Crack," is your EP worthy of a cause of which has no meaning.

Dr. Dre, Zombie Pop, and Twitter.... [DANCE FLOOR ENVY Interview]

2009-09-28T19:05:00.005-05:00

I recently did a follow up interview with Jordan, the mastermind behind Dance Floor Envy (based out of Highland, IN) and here are the lovely results:

SM: What’s the origin of the name? Have you changed the band’s name before?

J: The origin of the name is actually rather odd. I was listening to "California Love"(one of my favorite songs) and one the lyrics Dr.Dre rapped sounded like Dance Floor Envy even though I know that that is not what he's actually saying. I liked that idea for a band name right away, but I wanted to figure out a deeper meaning to it. The deeper meaning to it is that Dance Floor Envy is that type of jealousy you get when you're one of the wall flowers at a school dance, and you see your crush dancing with the cool guy/girl. That jealousy is sometimes what drives you to lead your own life and be the best version of yourself. And that is what my overall message is in the end. Go out, do what you love, and just be yourself because "cool" doesn't really exist.

SM: What can you tell me about your instruments? (i.e., Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever’s available? What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it a style/model/brand/color preference?

J: My main instrument is my computer. The program I use is actually called Acid pro. It is not a very advanced program, but it's what I can afford at the moment. Once I can afford it, I would like to switch to a better program to make/write the music for my songs.

SM: How has your music evolved since you first began?

J: My music has changed a lot since I first started. It's been just over a year since I started, and when I started, I sang really poppy songs that had no meaning to me. Back then, my beats also weren't made by me but by Adam Raschka(ex. Facing Giants and Stun the World.) Then I started making the beats/music on my own, but I took the project to a more mellow indie route. The music got a little bit better, but I still wasn't that into, because most of the lyrics weren't things I felt strongly about. Now, listening to the newest song of mine, "our voices carry", the project is finally where I want it. The lyrics are very personal now, and mean a lot to me. And also, metal music is what got me into playing music in the first place 10 years ago. So, I'm very happy to have gone back to my roots for the new songs, and to finally start being honest with my lyrics.

SM: Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?

J: I have played Bean Counters in highland, Stand up Comics in Lansing, and Lake Station Eagles. I loved playing all these venues, but I was pretty bummed when I heard of Bean Counters and Stand up Comics closing as venues. ANd I do have a show coming up. My first in about 6 months actually. But it is October 17th for Filthfest 2 at Laporte Co. Fairgrounds. The Show starts at 2p.m. and has a ton of great bands. I will be playing 100% all new songs from my upcoming debut ep.

SM: Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?

J: I would definitely like thanks my family first off. They have listented to every song the second I get out of the studio, and they've offered tremendous support. I want to also point out my brother, Jon, specifically. He taught me a lot about just being myself and loving it. If it wasn't for him, I don't think this project would've evolved the way it did. I would also like to thank my girlfriend, Samm. She is a great vocalist, and has been teaching me how to sing better. She's helped me out a lot with this project. I also want to thank my cousin Andy Vassar for performing guitar on my new single "our voices carry". He did an incredible job, and he will be appearing on some other new songs for the ep. As well as Corrine and Nicky and The Missing Piece Clothing/tmp art for taking my new promo shots, letting me wear some of the gear, and being great friends. Everyone should go check out tmp art now. They have amazing clothes and art.

SM: What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?

J: There is definitely no set time for me to rehearse each week. Usually a couple times a week, I'll go in my bedroom, crank the music, and just rehearse. It usually just kind of happens ha.

SM: Could you briefly describe the music-making process?

J: Well, I write most of the lyrics in my car. I write my best material while driving. I would probably attribute that to the fact that I feel most comfortable when I'm driving somewhere, and it's also definite privacy while writing. Then I write the music/beats on my computer and see what lyrics fit. When I find lyrics that work, I write the rest of lyrics. The I just take the music into Hey Charlie Studios where we record vocals. A huge thanks to Hey Charlie for the great they do!

SM: What genre of music do you consider your work to be? Who are your major influences?

J: I consider my music electronica/metal/pop. I also like to use my own term "zombie pop" to describe it, just because of the huge influence from horror movies in my writing. My biggest influences right now are Metallica, Hollywood Undead, Fall Out Boy, and poet e.e. cummings. I know that last one if kind of a curve ball, but I fell in love with his poetry years ago, and I still love his writing.

SM: How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD? (besides MySpace)

J: Right now, the best access is myspace. People can also follow me on on twitter for updates on the project( @dancefloorjrdan). Also, I am working on my debut e.p, and it will hopefully be out early 2010. Or again, come see me October 17th at Filthfest 2! haha.

SM: Any last words or comments?

J: Just thanks to those who are reading this and those who continue to support my music. I love you all and the support means the world to me. I hope to see some of you on October 17th, and I hope you all enjoy my newest single, "Our Voices Carry".

You're Invited to the Psycho Circus Interview!

2009-09-28T12:36:00.003-05:00

We've all been to a circus at least once in our lifetime but what about a circus run by freaks this type of circus does indeed exist but would about another type of "freak show" run by modern rockers of your sleezy rock n' roll attitude and overall energy appeal that can't get enough out of what they were intended to do.... which was to create music. These outlanders from the United Kingdom have brought to you their own version of what they consider "hard hittin, in your face, sleezy rock n' roll" music - Psycho Circus caught up with me recently via email talking to me about what's in store from these everyday rockstars.

1. What type of band are you?

Psycho Circus: Hard hitting, in your face, sleaze rock 'n' roll!

2. Tell us the brief history of your band.

Psycho Circus: When we first got together we got in a bit of a dilemma as we had our first gig booked at a strip joint in Redditch, UK our bassist left straight away but we were soon able to scout someone else out. It all went up from there - we earned ourselves a fierce name around our hometown playing as many shows as we could and can. There are so many stories but you haven’t got the space to publish them.

3. Who are your musical and non-musical influences?

Psycho Circus: KISS, The Doors, Zeppelin, Alice in Chains, The cult, Motley Crue, Skid Row, LA Guns, The Quireboys, Aerosmith... need anymore? Let's not forget our family, friends and FANS for keepin us going!

4. What are your dreams and goals?

Psycho Circus: Everyone can have dreams but i think it’s fair not to talk about them as I would love for them to come true... but goals wise... to earn a decent name for ourselves in rock history.

5. Who writes the songs, what are they about?

Psycho Circus: It’s a joint effort (which isn't always a good thing), we try and base our songs on true event but now and again our minds wonder and we bend the truth a little bit….our songs seem to come together, that's why we click so well I think.

6. What's your opinion of our President?

Psycho Circus: Obama is great…. especially when he called Kanye West a jackass, that was killer!

7. How do you promote your band and shows?

Psycho Circus: Flyers, posters…. same old shit really, putting them up wherever we can, bar toilets, shop windows... car exhausts (laughs) you name it’s there!

8. Describe your show, visual and musically.

Psycho Circus: It’s better than sex…. you'll have to come and experience it yourself!

9. What do you think about downloading music online?

Psycho Circus: Everyone’s done…. anyone who says they haven't is lying! It's unfair on the artists and we know that ourselves as artists.

10. What's your outlook on the record industry today?

Psycho Circus: We've only just got signed by Swerve Records, Manchester Uk. It’s all good so far and it's looking good for a European tour next year and who knows maybe we can come see you guys in the US sometime?

11. What's your claim to fame?

Psycho Circus: A couple of us met up velvet revolver after their gig at our hometown of Wolverhampton before and after. Also our guitarists met up and partied with Buckcherry after their gig in Wolverhampton as well. We also bump into Robert Plant now and again as he lives in our hometown.

12. Tell us a story about a day in your life.

Psycho Circus: Well we all have to work normal 9 to 5's to fund our dirty habits, and just get up to what normal 20-25 year old lads get up to (use your imagination).

13. What inspires you to do what you do?

Psycho Circus: We breathe, eat, sleep rock n roll so it comes natural to us.

14. What advice would you give to fellow bands?

Psycho Circus: Just give it your all, enjoy what you do, there'll always be someone in the crowd that doesnt 'get' you, but fuck em! You gotta do what you gotta do!

15. How does music affect you and the world around you?

Psycho Circus: Music is our life. Always has been always will be!

16. What's new in the recording of your music?

Psycho Circus: Well as we've just been signed, we are about record our debut EP (due for release in 2010) watch this space!

17. What are the biggest obstacles for bands?

Psycho Circus: The band members of course haha. If no one gets on, you can't progress as a band. Say if a band member isn't as committed as the rest, they will hold you back.

18. What's the best and worst thing about playing clubs/venues?

Psycho Circus: Playing a small stage, cause there isn't enough space to let go and put on a proper show!

19. Tell us about your next shows and why we should be there.

Psycho Circus: Wildside in Nottingham is our next show - it’s the biggest showcase of sleaze rock n roll in the UK.

20. Any last words?

Maybe?

Story of the Year Gets Interviewed!

2009-09-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

While doing their on again/off again routine, St. Louis rockers Story of the Year or SOTY recently stopped by Long Beach to pay their respects to a local charity event but before hitting the streets they decided to do what they do best and that’s playing music. Dan, Ryan, Phillip, Adam and Josh gave me the opportunity of a lifetime when I got word that I'd be interviewing the entire act before they were due to meet up with their fans for a quick signing session - not to mention their headlining performance for later on that same night. The band spoke to me about what they’ve currently been up too and what to expect from them come the New Year.

1. You've guys been around for 14 yrs anything planned for the 15 yr mark come 2010?
Dan: Most definitely we have a new record coming out.

2. Will we be seeing you on Jimmy Kimmel Live anytime soon?

Dan: Hopefully have to have them ask us we did that back in the day, played Jimmy Kimmel, Carson Daily, etc.

3. I first got into you guys in 2004, when you were a part of the Nintendo Fusion Tour and was an extra in your music video for "Anthem Of Our Dying Day," looking back on when you first entered the music scene up to this point, how does that make you feel?

Dan: Think we’ve matured a lot.

Ryan: It’s hard to keep up with all the latest trends.

Adam: That’s a hard question to answer.

4. What I've noticed about Story of the Year is that you play a handful of shows, in your hometown and then you come out to California, why the on/off routine?

Dan: Why not? We’re always around when we’re at home and whenever California wants us we come out and play.

5. When will we be seeing the new album?

Dan: Early to mid next year, January-February.

6. In my opinion after getting into you guys in 04, I had also gotten into this other rock act known as Three Days Grace, would you consider going on tour with them, I think that'd make a great line-up.

Dan: I think the producer that did our last albums worked with them on their first one.

Phillip: But I don’t know if our fans would get along with their fans.

Dan: We’ll just see what can possibly be set up.

7. Out of all the music videos and albums to date, which is your absolute favorite and why?

Dan: Probably Until The Day I Die and our new album.

Josh: Sidewalks *Laughs* and of course our new album.

Phillip: Take Me Back, and the new album.

Adam: The Antidote and the new album that’s not out yet.

Ryan: Take Me Back, and the new album.

8. You guys did a cover of Metallia's "Enter Sandman" would you ever consider recording it, and what other cover tunes would you want to include?

Adam: I want too!

Dan: Its one of those songs that sounds good the way it is, because when we play it live it’s our own style so to go and record it – it’s just not going to sound as good. We might record it on another live album probably that’d be cool.

9. What are your upcoming plans for the rest of 2009 into 2010?

Dan: Go out on tour in November/December with The Devil Wears Prada, and then basically tour all of next year when and after the new album comes out.

10. Anything else you'd like to add?

Dan: Go pick up the new album when it comes out.

Josh: yeah definitely go get it once it’s been dropped.

Adam: Go get the new album when it comes out.

Ryan: Pick it up!

Phillip: Look for the new album come the New Year!

Story of the Year Interviewed

Mr. Green All-Stars

2009-09-27T13:50:00.001-05:00

For Immediate Release

Hollywood Ca, Sept 28, 2009 Mr. Green All-Stars featuirng members of Bad Brains, Fishbone, Suicidal Tendencies, Dead Kennedys, and Human Rights have just announced a string of Southern Califonia tour Dates Including: October 8th at the Echoplex in Echo Park and October 9th at Canes Bar and Grill in San Diego.

This is without out a doubt Music History in the making exclaimed publicist John Mahoney from Artistpr.com Never before have these legendery musicians ever shared
the stage at the same time so fans will really be in for a big treat. Get ready for the funky punk/ metal lines of basssst a guitarist Norwood Fisher of Fishbone? For the snarling blasts of thrash metal and virtuoso guitar leads provided by Rocky a George of Suicidal Tendencies? Pounding punk rock metal rhythms from D.H. Peligro of the Dead Kennedy's and Last but certainly not least, the jaw-dropping stage mr greenperformance and vocal range from Hr of the Bad Brains as well as Vocalist Hawaiian Lyon from Human Rights and Big Mountain.

Mr. Green All-Stars describes themselves as "misfits of the world who believe in freedom of expression-no matter what the cost." The super group is known for their unique, energetic hybrid of 80% punk rock and 20% reggae, with lyrics that address political and human rights issues, as well as their incredibly skilled musicianship. Their powerful, high-speed music evokes the world of action sports, as well as a sense of anarchy and freedom, and their blend of shout-along melodies and driving hooks forces the crowd to join in on the performance. Mr. Green All-Stars announced their first album, Seeing is Believing, in 2006. H.R. of The Bad Brains contributed vocals to four tracks, including the Rolling Stones' cover "She's A Rainbow," and he will also lend his unique punk rock/ reggae vocal style as a guest performer on the 2009 tour.

The tour's second guest star, Jamaica's number one engineer and Dub originator The Madd Scientist, also co-engineered the All-Stars' album, along with Dave Aaron, engineer for Snoop Dogg and Sublime. Seeing is Believing also featured drummer extraordinaire Steve Perkins of Jane's Addiction on two tracks, "No Ego Trippin'" and "Brain Freeze." Other guest musicians on the album include Josh Cardinali on guitar, George Huges on keys, Balboa Celebrity Horns, Willy Waldman on trumpet, bassists Derek "Bull Dread", Freddy Flynt, drummers Clinton Stoggsdill, and Ezra Robison.

October 8th at the Echoplex, in Echo Park and October 9th at Canes Bar and Grill in San Diego.

You can check out Mr. Green All-Stars online at www.myspace.com/mrgreenallstars. Booking by Upmosthigh Records/Booking- Lyon Rowland Publicty & Press, by ArtistPR.

TLR, LLC ( THE NEW MOVEMENT)

2009-09-25T15:41:00.002-05:00

Who is Miraj? Singer, actor, model and choreographer - Miraj can do it all! Trained in dance since the age of six, and also classically trained on the piano, Miraj has musical artistry in his blood. Officially, his career really took off when he was featured on two songs from the Mims freshman album, "This Is Why I'm Hot". Miraj then began working with major producers, from BlackOut Movement to Ralphael Saadiq, to other major artists like UGK, Grindmode, Jamie Foxx, Jim Jones, and The Dream - just to name a few. From his song "Don't Hate Me", to his new video release, "Make A Movie", Miraj's music can be found on the Internet worldwide. With his inspirational talent and his fans' clamoring for more of his unique sound that continues to resonate throughout the music industry, Miraj will be making music that appeals to audiences everywhere for many years to come.

Most recently, Miraj signed on to star in an upcoming big budget film directed by Sean Lawlor of "BraveHeart" fame. From teaching dance at several South Florida Studios to performing all over the United States, Miraj will definitely become an integral part of the music industry. Miraj is without a doubt an artist who will gain respect among his peers.

Miraj is opening for Jamie Foxx in a Miami concert next month, October 2009. Miraj will also be appearing in the movie "Healing Frequencies". Actors in this movie will include Anthony Hopkins, Sean Lawlor and John Savage. Miraj's music can also be found and purchased on Myxer ring tones and iTunes. We sincerely believe that this talented young artist will become one of the most popular and successful performers in the music industry.

Check out the links below to view more details and music from this fabulous artist!

The First Time Music Video

Make A Movie Music Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZHKJs9QkjA - The First Time
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED5Xbjgw4rM - Make A Movie
http://www.myspace.com/mirajthernbbeast
www.myspace.com/miraj305
www.twitter.com/miraj305
www.facebook.com/miraj305
http://penwayllc.lefora.com/2009/09/05/the-rnb-beast-miraj-a-new-young-talent-you-wont-be/page1/

For further information please contact Tango:

tango@tangoleerecords.com - ph: 310.310.1628

Zera's Emotion Run with The New Seed

2009-09-24T19:45:00.000-05:00

Zera Vaughan’s “The New Seed,” unleashes that trip-hop sound wave that enforces that English pop vibration that keeps the music constantly flowing, having that unique voice with catchy lyrics and easy-going beatings really makes the listener interact with what the musician is dealing with from daily life experiences down to personal issues and concerns happening within the everyday lifestyle of the world of which we live in.

Zera's 12-track mix-up captures her true emotions showcasing her real talented abilities she enforces when creating music. For instance "Empty Spaces," "One More Day," "Where is the Love," "The Message" and conclusion "Devil Must Die," the music really conflicts upon the reality of the everyday lifestyle that not only Zera has dealt with but the listener may have as well.

The lyrics are really broken down and chorus lines really speaks to you when listening to the descriptive styling’s of how Zera progresses her emotions through music, the music’s poppy but classy at the same time – sounding very much like Miley Crisis meets Mandy Moore. Her music impacts these overwhelming emotions non-stop displaying a waterfall of senses that can’t be contained.

Play List (Sept. 24-30)

2009-09-24T17:12:00.002-05:00

All songs from my Pandora quickmix.

1. "Even Cowgirls Get The Blues"- The Gaslight Anthem
2. "The Underdog"- Spoon
3. "Maps"- Yeah Yeah Yeahs
4. "Always"- Blink 182
5. "Sofa Song"- The Kooks
6. "Hotprowl"- Tiger Army
7. "Walking With a Ghost"- Tegan and Sara
8. "Love Like Winter (Live)"- AFI
9. "Knife Vs. Face Round 1"- Drop Dead, Gorgeous
10. "Jizz In My Pants"- The Lonely Island
11. "Sassafras"- The Devil Wears Prada
12. "Attention"- The Academy Is...
13. "Monster Movie Fan"- Nekromantix
14. "Keep My Picture"- Horrorpops
15. "Over The Hills and Far Away"- Led Zeppelin

:D

I love all of those songs...

-Jes

Hiss of Atrocities's Rituals Of the Lost

2009-09-23T19:03:00.001-05:00

Hiss of Atrocities or (HOA) for short, formed in Boston, Massachusetts in 2005, thus causing these metal masters to display their own creativity in their best format possibly – consisting purely of high powering drum tactics, blended in well with unrelenting guitar riffs with expecting guitar solos thrown in between, pouring out this sound fueled by a high pulsing energy that cannot be explained.

But perhaps there is one way to explain it and that’s through the 12-tracks that have been engraved upon HOA’s latest album “Rituals Of The Lost” a combination of melodic metal sound waves mixed in with fast overlapping beatings of thrash metal entangled with the death metal attitude. In short the vocal chords are death metal inspired with their growls and shouts slithering around the music in the backdrop allowing the guitars to craft their own creative riffs with ground-breaking solos that rattle the music straight to the core perspective.

HOA delivers when it comes to “Cost Me Everything,” “Rituals of Sufferance,” and “Empty Earth,” a selection of tunes that make the music stand out the most really capturing HOA’s musical essence and vibrations that never seems to get old but add this refreshing texture you can always fall back upon.

Atreyu's Congregation of the Damned

2009-09-22T23:47:00.000-05:00

American metalcore has been tossed around for a while now since its formation. So out of the wide range of bands that fall into this genre, what band has proven themselves worthy enough of being known as this genre? One band that pops into my head is a small town act straight out of Orange County, California, known simply as Atreyu. Having been around for 11 years and counting - vocalist/lyricist Alex Varkatzas along with guitarists Dan Jacobs and Travis Miguel, bassist Marc McKnight and drummer/vocalist Brandon Saller, the band went from being originally called "Retribution" to Atreyu being named after the character from the fantasy book/movie The Neverending Story.

They had then released four LP's “Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses,” “The Curse,” “A Death-Grip on Yesterday,” and “Lead Sails Paper Anchor,” each of which has sold more than 200,000 copies to date. Since the numerous LP releases the band like so many before them and surrounding them have gone off on numerous tours ranging from the U.S. to the U.K. right back to their hometown, Atreyu has gotten their name and self’s around one way or another. But once that's all been said and done more than just once, what is left to do? Well create new material of course, which they've recently done - calling it "Congregation of the Damned." The members had wanted to continue to develop musically but also wanted to return to the more aggressive side that was involved within their first creations.

For instance through the 13 songs offered, Atreyu covers a variety of ground, that includes heavy raw emotion found all over this album - "“Stop! Before It’s Too Late and We’ve Destroyed it All,” being an enraged raw driven tune, whereas a more anthemic metal tune "Carried Away," carries the music down a much matured route/ Taking the music down a note just a tad while the more brutal side-effects of cinematic rock ballad "You Were the King Now You're Unconscious," takes Atreyu's music ability to a higher standard. At this same time, they're making various nods to the music, they grew up on, still in love with it all going down the lines of sounding a lot like Black Flag, down to Pantera, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Motley Crue. While there is no shortage of euphoric sing-along melodies, the songs are more ferocious than anything since 2004’s “The Curse”.

The subject matter used here is equally intense, vocalist Alex explains “The music is heavier and so I was able to write darker lyrics." “There’s personal shit on there: self-doubt, self-loathing. Bands who sing about happy things have their place, and I’m not singing about dark things to promote them, I’m singing about them so I don’t go insane. It’s pure catharsis. I make music so I don’t go crazy.” In close having him finding himself within a darker environment, or "territory" when it comes to "Storm To Pass," a song that has not only one meaning but a double-meaning behind it: "the storm as being the form of depression, while the storm is considered the war". “You can feel that depression coming on, you can see yourself doing fucked up things but you can’t stop it,” says Varktazas. “I grew up watching the first Iraq war and the invasion of various countries and how the whole thing became one giant storm.”

This being enough said to cover everything that there needs to be said, about Atreyu’s follow-up to their previous release, this album clearly being nothing more, and nothing less than its title claims it to be….the “Congregation of the Damned.”

Bobby Alt of Street Drum Corps Sees New Hope: the Interview

2009-09-22T21:25:00.000-05:00

Bobby Alt (S.T.U.N., Faculty X) of the Street Drum Corps caught up with me briefly while in the studio to discuss about the new Street Drum Corps album due out early next year.

1. Hey How are you?

Bobby: I’ am fantastic I’m at my home in Downtown L.A. just down the street from the new desert bar that just opened up having a waffle with some peaches, its delicious I’m actually looking to open a store in Downtown L.A. so I’ve been in meetings for the last couple of hours, talking to the guy that’s been showing us around -a bunch of which have become available for rent that are the up and coming sites so it’s been a fun day.

2. I heard you were in the studio, how's that been going?

Bobby: It’s been an incredible summer we’ve spent the last 2 and half months all summer long in and out of all different studios all over the L.A. area, we started by recording at Dave Grohl’s studio in Northridge. Then after that went over to East West Studios where we recorded Sinatra, Beach Boys, the Mama’s and Papa’s “California Dreamer,” so that was a real treat. Then went over to the Howard Benison studio, which’s our producer and recorded all the guitars and bass, and then I’ve been recording vocals – in Howard’s northern bedroom in his house way out in Calabasas all the vocals for this double album, one is all the traditional drumming street corps drumming and the second album is the more produced band vibe still heavy in the drums of course.

3. What can we expect when listening to the new album?

Bobby: Oh boy! Pure sonic excitement, *Laughs* a lot of blood, sweat and tears went into this double album, a lot of tribal rhythms, war rhythms, I’ve been singing and writing songs now – but there’s a little bit of my life and our lives as a whole, when making this record. We’ve put together great artwork for it and then go out and do a bunch of touring for it.

4. Were there any songs that didn't make the album?

Bobby: Tons of songs didn’t make the album we wrote between 50-60 songs since May of last year for this particular record which we twiddled down to 21 that our producer picked and twiddled down to about 15 and then 12 3 of them to be featured as B-Sides or given away to movies, video games, while the other 12 will be featured on the album itself. Then we have about 30 minutes of drumming that will be the all traditional drumming CD so a lot of songs were written this year a lot of which didn’t make it but you might see them pop up here and there later on in the future.

5. What are the upcoming plans for you guys for the remainder of 09 into 2010?

Bobby: This year to next year - right now we’re finishing this record with Howard Benison and hoping to release the record into February or March of next year we’re just taking our time, being very patient making sure we’re getting the best sonic expression of this particular Street Drum Corps carnation and we also are working on our Street Drum Corps Bang Show which is an all drumming experience you can see at colleges and performing arts centers across the country. So we’ve been putting together a bigger production for that particular group and we’re also writing a show that we’re launching in September 2010 – called “The Street Drum Corps Presents: Banner Machines” that represents a 6 person cast using over 100 years of technology to create music all different styles and sounds of instruments, i.e. microwaves, typewriters, blenders, any type of kitchen appliance available so we got our plates full.

6. How many guest drummers did you have on this album, who was your favorite to work with?

Bobby: Oh boy! We had I don’t know exactly about 6 or 7 special guests on the all drum CD – on one particular song called “Thrashing and Trashing,” that particular song we have members of Street Drum Corps, the embers of Bang, we have Tommy Lee (Motley Crue), Brandon Saller (Atreyu), Matt Sorum (The Cult/Guns n Roses), Brooks Wackerman (Bad Religion), Shannon Leto (30 Seconds to Mars), and I can’t pick one favorite drummer that we worked with because they all brought something special to the for that particular track. A lot of them are good friends of ours too, like Brandon, and Shannon those dudes we’ve hung out with and played with before so it’s a real privilege to have them come and play on our CD.

7. Have anything planned for Halloween?

Bobby: Halloween? Yes I’ am flying to Travis City, Michigan with the Bang group to direct our new video for our electric press kit so I get to hang with the Bang guys and they’re playing a Halloween show there about a couple thousand people within a small college town. So this will be my directional debut so we get to film with Bang throughout the day and then package that up and send it off, to all the colleges and theme parks, so that’s what I’m doing probably dress up like a Vampire.

8. What is one good thing and one bad thing about being in a band?

Bobby: One good thing about being in a band its like a family, it’s a very tight family gang of the outsiders the reasons I started playing music while I was young was to get together with friends and jam out been doing it since I was 13 years old. One bad thing is being a fan boy. *Laughs* It’s a double edge sword pretty much. I can go a little deeper it’s about being a musician ad creating these shows and putting together these productions, you’re head feels like it’s going to explode with all this creative energy. You just gota sit back and breath and put it altogether and organize it all out. Whether you’re working on a banner, artwork, song, t-shirt design whatever it may be, you stick with it - that’s what you go with.

9. Were you guys out at the Henry Fonda when Papa Roach performed?

Bobby: We were not at the Henry Fonda I was not but I’m sure some of the other guys were those guys rock.

10. Anything else you'd like to add?

Bobby: Anything else I’d like to add? Just had a very exciting summer recording this music and can’t wait for everyone to hear so be sure to come out and check out the live shows and have a good time.

AFI Crash Love

2009-09-22T21:04:00.001-05:00

A Fire Inside or AFI for short, have been around for the past 18 years unleashing upon the music scene seven LPs to date with their eighth "Crash Love," on the way. But the deal with AFI is a simple known fact, they've never seem to stick out with the same sound for more than a couple of albums. Their first being “Answer That and Stay Fashionable,” in 1995. Then the band went on to release “Very Proud of Ya,” the following year, followed up by a third three years later, “Shut Your Mouth and Open Your Eyes.”

Since the earlier creations, AFI has indeed like most bands changed their style to blend in along with the rest of the crowd, just like today’s fads same routine goes for music - AFI went from the stick liking's of punk down to hardcore punk to horror punk in a matter of just a few years. 1999's "Black Sails in the Sunset," and 2000's "The Art of Drowning," it wasn't until 12 years later that the band had stuck major success when it came down to "Sing The Sorrow," (2003) having the well known hits, "Girl's Not Grey" and "The Leaving Song, Pt. II," aside from the others found upon this album. Then the band had taken a brief hiatus and returned in 2006 with "Decemberunderground," that featured break-through single "Miss Murder," and second smash-up "Love Like Winter," now their eighth achievement is on the floor, and "Crash Love," isn't all the hype that AFI has been known to establish.

"Crash love," does play the band's strongest points to date but goes back to blending into the modern rock n roll vibrations that they changed not so long ago, there are some "old school" influences found upon the album such as "Medicate," that constantly builds up that classic punk style with galloping guitar riffs with fast racing drum tactics getting your blood pumped. Guitarist Jade Puget steps it up in a major way when "OK, I feel Better Now," showcasing his standout performance to date, starting off with a trade marking chiming chord sequence, before working into the strummed octaves and some unexpected, game-changing chord effects found within the third verse.

The other songs, make a particular marking that vocalist Davey Havok stays true to his fascination with death and self-destruction, not going away from those themes one bit but encouraging them a lot more. While "Crash Love," never seems to hit the lyrical highs that "Sing The Sorrow" had once struck - "Veronica Sawyer Smokes," may just be the most out-standing tune offered, let alone written about Winona Ryder, having Davey's vocal skills be at their best perfection level to date, allowing him to sing the following line is remarkable: "I saw you every time I closed my eyes, in the Hughes film I had scored, produced and starred in, in my mind.” Nevertheless, Davey's vocal contribution makes this song work in every way possible - laying out the voices and chorus structure in the perfect combination, having the rest of the music fall simply into place.

"Crash Love," doesn't demand for the listener to pay attention to everything spoken yet alone played to the same chord as their previous accomplishments, but it reveals a more intricate and well-constructed album, rarely lacking any proportion of quality or anything else falling out of place.

Three Days Grace – Life Starts Now – But The Music Breaks Away….

2009-09-22T21:01:00.002-05:00

It's been three years since Three Days Grace' "One X," and the band have finally made their triumph return with their third studio album, "Life Starts Now," but has it? Yes it has - previous installments that the band has attempted at creating stuck to the mainstream rock albums that all "other" bands tend to create. But when it comes to Three Days Grace's unique style and rhythm they tend to always add their own flare to each album they dish out.

The band’s first self-title album in 2004 had the more edger tone to it pushing out that aggressive tone of rhythm that the band was focusing on at the time when the sophomore had shot through “One X” (2006) a more modern rock attitude was displayed that took Three Days Grace down a whole another path showcasing a more mature sound. Now that the past is said and done, “Life Starts Now,” is upon us and a repeating texture has shot up.

This album goes down the lines of sounding exactly like its previous counter-part adding a list of 12-tracks to fall back on – adding the simple sound effects of break-down solo attempts with overpowering riffs and repeating chorus lines that just lack the emotion and energy the band once formatted. Songs like "Break," Bully," and "Goin Down," aside from the so-called balled type tune "Last to Know," sounding a lot like "Never Too Late," these selection of songs that come at you throughout the album just doesn’t cut it for the listener at times.

The music picks up on certain aspects during these selected tunes but just doesn’t maintain that energy that these guys once had within their grasps and let slip away. The music is more modern and takes millions of miles away from their older roots never letting the past break back through.

Natasha James Is It "Tequila Time?"

2009-09-22T15:20:00.000-05:00

Natasha James's "Tequila Time," a great taste when it comes to your modern everyday style of music having that soulful driven vocal effects rooted with your smooth mellow country style rock n' roll attitude. From those soulful times of death you find yourself going "Straight To Hell," when this tragic dreadful tune comes rolling right through, taking the music up a notch and separates the heaviness from the more slower side effects and edges it tends to create with the more modern tunes such as "Get Out Of My Way". A tune worthy of a cause for its mellow dramatic essence that keeps the music constantly flowing never being able to stop. From the very beginning of "Takes Alotta Love," down to the very ending with, "Modern Life," you'll find yourself always grooving and bobbing your head to the upbeat catchy easy-going lyrics that Natasha James is well known to deliver, having all of those bar endless nights and long rides home well worth it. For fans of Reba Mcentire and Taylor Swift or any other type of country folk should kick their heels high into the air with pure excitement as soon as the first tune begins and the last one ends.

Hiroshima Will Burn The Weight of All Things

2009-09-19T20:47:00.000-05:00

Hiroshima Will Burn's "The Weight of All Things," dishes out a handful of tracks each one more considerable than its last. For instance opener "Methodical Disfigurement," instantly brings out the stylings of Necrophagist having that same fact pacing energy – the instrumentals combing together to create this non-stop sensation of music that just overpowers the listener. “Martyium,” is another band comparison going down the musical roots of All Shall Perish with vocal fancy’s of Origin keeping the intensity of the music constantly flowing as each song clashes right on through right up until the very ending which concludes with “The Black Death,” an ending to an astounding album with pure essence when establishing the music its creating. Hiroshima Will Burn is your modern death metal band adding their own uniqueness to the tone of the music, which makes them that much more catchy and so upbeat.

Cerebrum's Spectral Extravagance

2009-09-19T20:46:00.001-05:00

An astounding trio known simply as Cerebrum has unleashed "Spectral Extravagance," not to mention their signing to Lacerated Enemy Records to top it off, but 11-tracks to settle the final deal. These 11-tracks filled with nothing but pure brutality mind blowing riffs with mix-matched solos, totally throws you off guard right after hearing the opening track “Fragments of Illusion.” “Pattern of Fear,” is another mind blower because the intensity impacted within the song brings out this progression of sound that can’t be figured out, it displays the craftsmanship that Pestilence and Cynic tend to express within their music. “Thorns of Weakness,” expands the music a little further but going into a heavier detail sounding a lot like Atheist, and Gorguts combined, with the way the vocal tones go having that brutal uniqueness overlapping the instruments just overpowers the whole music experience. Making the music sound a lot more vivid and alive, Cerebum’s “Spectral Extravagance,” is an intense douse of brutality added with a dash of reality.

Glay's U.S. Vacation

2009-09-12T13:22:00.007-05:00

The hustle and bustle of the renowned Sunset Strip cherishing along its curvy sidewalks a series of clubs one being a series located throughout the U.S. known simply as the House of Blues. But tonight this club wasn't intending on throwing on its usual share of music no they paid tribute to the Japanese culture with hosting a special 2 night concert event featuring Hakodate, Hokkaidō, Japan's Glay.

Formed by guitarist Takuro and vocalist Teru during high school in 1988, Glay composes its songs around the pop/rock genres, not only focusing on that particular genre but also using various elements of different styles such as reggae and gospel. In anticipation of 15 years of rocking music, selling over 56,000,000 in singles, CDs, and DVDs alone the band came over seas to perform a 3-day set out in sunny California - one show being held up North out at The Fillmore while the other two were held right here in Los Angeles.

The show itself of course, went off without hesitation as the sea of Japanese screaming girls and guys among the newcomers of the pop/rock group stood and awaited the arrival as each of the 4 members walked onto the stage - breaking into a 2 hour and 30 minute set list that consisted of fast racing pop/rock down to the mellow dramatic balled “I Love You”. Glay ran through a setlist that had combined old favorites blended together with some newer material. The songs seems to have been arranged in a sort of mini sets, first the pop block then the ballads, and then a quick run through of the faster heavier numbers. From a critical point they were really at their best when edging into the rock camp, but there was no denying that the audience loved those ballads more than anything else.

When it was all said and done though, Glay's performance was unlike any other Japanese band, the group managed to draw in a wide range of locals from the Japanese American community. Being plenty of American fans too, but Glay's core aspect was predominantly Japanese. It's a cool thing to see, an example of the way the Japanese atmosphere partakes on an American twist. Creating its own pop culture zone that has found a home in a part of America that's been home to a large variety of the Japanese community for such a long period of time.

Setlist:
1. Great Vacation
2. Yuuwaku
-MC-
3. Ikiteku Tsyosa
4. Survival
5. Senno Knife Ga Mune O Sasu
6. Cynical
7. Starless Night
-MC-
8. Run
9. However
10. Be With You
-MC-
11. Verb
12. Synchronicity
13. I am XXX
14. HighCommunications
-MC-
15. More than Love
16. Kanojyo No "Mordern"
17. Shutter Speed No Theme
18. Acid Head

Encore:
19. Peak Hateshinaku Soul Kagirinaku
20. I'm in love

The Black Diamond Jaguar Twist

2009-09-11T13:02:00.005-05:00

When it comes to the lifestyle of the glam/punk rock origins what comes to mind? Perhaps all those old school rockin acts that once were but now that the time has passed us a new generation has been born, known simply as the "Black Diamond Jaguars". This glam punk rock sensation is sweeping the United Kingdom right now as we speak not only music wise but performance wise as well. Slowly building up their fan base piece by piece creating a brand new generation for everyone to witness and learn to fall head over heels for over and over again. Guitarist Clint Delicious and Vocalist Alixx De'ville spoke to me about what the Black Diamond Jaguars were all about.

1. What’s the name of your band? What’s the origin of that name? Have you changed the band’s name before?

We are Black Diamond Jaguars. Alixx came up with the name and while we could blather on all day about how diamonds relate to how glamorous we are or compare ourselves to a pack of jaguars pouncing on hard bodies at the end of the day it just sounds fucking good. We haven’t changed the band name and to be honest, why would we!? If you’d come up with something as good as that you’d never even think of changing it.

2. Please list the name, age, school, and respective instrument of each band member.

The band’s made up of Alixx De’Ville on vocals, guitar hero Clint Delicious, L.A. Whittle rumbling on the low-end and Craig Tutton pounding the skins. Alixx and Craig are 21 and Clint and L.A. are 22.

3. What genre of music do you consider your work to be? Who are your major influences?

We play sleaze riddled punk rock fired up with glam influences. We all grew up on punk and discovered sleaze and glam metal a few years back so it’s only natural that they’re what we’d play. For all of us, music is literally our lives and we’re always discovering new bands and being influenced by different things so it’s hard to pinpoint a few major influences.

4. How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?

Alixx and Clint met around 7 years ago at local punk gigs and have been partners in crime ever since. Clint met L.A. when they were at college five years back and got in contact with him when we needed a replacement for our old bassist, Jesse from Sexmess, around six months ago. Alixx and Craig worked together a few years ago and had kept in touch through a mutual love of loud, blaring rock & roll.

5. When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?

The band started in the summer of 2008. Alixx used to sing in The Vermin, who broke up just after Christmas 2007, and was looking to get involved in a new project. He recruited guitarists Leeroy Washington and Raffles from The Vermin and asked Craig to play drums. Jesse Kowalski filled in on bass as a favour to Alixx. This initial line-up fell apart when Leeroy moved to London and broke off contact with the rest of the band. Alixx invited Clint for an audition and Raffles left due to creative differences. After the summer, Jesse moved back to London and Sexmess so L.A, who was initially drafted in to play rhythm guitar, picked up the bass duties. We were all inspired to play music by the rest of the bands in our hometown. If they can play the shit they do and get away with it and draw crowds we knew with our talent, good looks and bad attitude we could easily do it.

6. Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?

We aren’t signed. The six figure deals we’ve been offered so far haven’t tickled our fancy!

7. What can you tell me about your instruments? (i.e., Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever’s available? What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it a style/model/brand/color preference?

Clint uses Epiphone guitars and also a bitchin’ customised leopard print Maverick, also a Marshall amp that blew up at the end of our last show, it was in the last 30 seconds of our final song, Dirty Leather. Luckily I just grabbed my mic n sang with Alixx. Everyone still went totally mad for it n most people thought it was part of the act! I’ve had the amp for seven years though and never had a problem so I think it’s done really well. When you rock as hard as we do you have to expect some severe damage to occur someplace! The repair bill is going to seriously reduce my cash for partying though! I’m on the Merrydown ciders before I’m out now, no more cocktails and Jim Bean this month!

L.A Whittle has a Custom made Bass and refuses to play anything else but that one particular bass. It’s because it plays awesome and looks fuckin hot!

Tutton is totally mad about his kit and set up, but he doesn’t realise how boring all that stuff is and that no one really cares! So sorry Craig but bollocks to your kit, the fans don’t deserve to read through that boring stuff. Sorry to all the drummers out there, if you have to know about his kit, check the videos and pictures of us.

8. Where have you performed? What are your favourite and least favourite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?

We love every show you know. We love local shows in and around Reading because all of our friends can come down and it’s great playing to them. We played a killer set at the Face Bar here in our home town Reading recently which was awesome. It was our local debut so it was fantastic that everyone loved the show. The scene is growing in Reading, this new venue called Sub 89 thats opening up has bands like Hardcore Superstar (one of our favourite bands!), The Haunted and The buzzcocks playing which is going to really help accelerate the local scene as we’ve needed a mid size venue in town for ages.

Playing far away though is fantastic too. We love travelling to new places we haven’t been before to see what’s going on and to see what other people think of us. Girls love out of town bands as well so that’s a nice bonus!

We have a couple gigs booked up. The next one is at Bar One Ten in Goldaming, hopefully with another band Club le shark who we’ve played with before, They’re doing pretty well for themselves so it should be awesome. It’s on the 7th of November.

9. Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?

We don’t play any covers at the moment. We’ve played a couple hardcore superstar songs at practice as they are one band who we all really love. It could well be part of our set soon who knows?

Dirty Leather is our main fan favourite and we get that sung at us when we’re out n about in Reading. Usually by a few absolutely hammered girls, but we’re always just as bad and end up joining in like some twisted, bastard karaoke session on acid!

Shake is one tune that everyone gets dancing to as it has a real nice groove to it. It’s always good seeing people dancing, especially ladies getting carried away. That’s always appreciated!

A new number called ‘Wild’ as well is an awesome new one that lives up to the name. when that’s recorded we’re expecting it to be a clear fan favourite.

10. Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?

The songs are all just about what we get up to all the time. So they are all really about Boozing and sleazing and teasing! Girls, partying, drinking, other girls and ourselves! Listen to the tunes n you’ll see, we’re not into cryptic, strange lyrics too much. It’s nice when fans know what the fuck you’re talking about where as some pretentious artists seem to think getting the thesaurus and big book of similes out and going mental makes you a better song writer, but you know what? It doesn’t! Just makes you a plank who can’t get to the point and say what you’re thinking!

Off course it will change and improve over time like anything. We will get LA involved more as he’s just been busy recently over the summer, so he will bring his influence in so our sound will have another creative persons input. We’d like to maybe do a couple slower numbers as well about some more serious subjects closer to our hearts, but until then its just guna be party party party anthems!

11. Could you briefly describe the music-making process?

This is the song writing process for you;

Step 1 - Clint writes a bitchin’ riff

Step 2 – Alixx adds some dynamite lyrics

Step 3 – We teach the guys the songs

And that’s it everytime for our tunes so far!

It will change though, it’s just been like this as Clint and Alixx spend a lot of time writing together and LA is fairly new so has just been playing songs which have already been written.

12. What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?

We practice as a band a couple hours a week a similar time at a local rehearsal studio in Reading.

Clint and Alixx get together in the week to write songs and come up with creative ideas to work on in the practices. Generally all the songs are written at Clint’s house by himself and Alixx or the lyrics are tweaked whilst singing our heads of walking home from town each night after 2 for 1 cocktails!

13. How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?

The sound is definitely becoming a lot fuller. We haven’t been playing together long but we are always trying to keep improving by adding new techniques and fresh ideas to keep the sound in a state where it’s constantly evolving. We aim to tease the listener to a point where they are about to explode with excitement and sometimes they do! Listening to Jaguar tines can be a messy affair!

14. What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

The only challenge has been to pay for our recording as we keep blowing our money the night before, temptations to great when you have cash in your wallet and live right in town! Luckily our studio have come to expect it now so they are cool with us! I won’t say what studio or else everyone will be trying it on!

Also Clint and Alixx have been living in Reading and have been banned from a couple of venues in the town which makes playing gigs a bit harder as even if the band gets booked they won’t let us in the front door just to play! It’s because with all that wet Indy shit going on promoters get scared putting on a band with such a raw, full on, bastard attitude as us! But I tell you what, that’s something that people want to see that they never get to with bands about now, excitement! We are an exciting full throttle band who tear through everything in their way and look good whilst doing it and if you don’t like it go back home to listen to your motherlicking Mariah Carey cd with a mug of Co Co you boring Saps!

15. What’s your ultimate direction for your band? Are you seeking fame and fortune?

Fame and fortune is obviously the dream, anyone who says they don’t look forward to that are either lying or a load of fuckin pussies! Still we really want to bring good sleaze ridden rock to the forefront of the music scene. Everything about sleaze is fuckin awesome. The look, the sound, the smell the delicious taste of it in the air! We want the Jaguars to be massive! Cd’s, dvd’s, posters, boardgames, thongs, fire extinguishers, the jaguars can be the ultimate capitalist investors dream gravy train!

But also we want the genre to explode and get the recognition in this current climate that it deserves. Over here everyone goes mad for pussy arse Indy bull shit. It’s boring music sung by boring motherlickers who are rich, famous and play music for a living, yet they act like they are the most bored squares on the planet!

Emotionless sacks of potatoes personified, why do people like that?! It’s boring as remortgaging your house! Put us in that situation and we'll be living everyday wild and making the most of it. We're wild, dangerous and exciting. That’s way more interesting than Indy morons grumbling around talking about what their favourite bread is in interviews. I always wonder why don’t they just grab the hotties mic who’s interviewing them and take her round the back whilst the rest of the band highjack the show.

16. What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?

Get big hair, tight clothes, lots of accessories, get with birds (that’s chicks btw to you yanks!)........oh yea and right killer tunes, that’s pretty fuckin important. Writing good, catchy songs that people remember. If you can remember a whole tune after hearing it just once then chances are its pretty shit hot. Either that or its insanely bad! There’s sometimes a fine line!

17. How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?

Our MySpace is www.myspace.com/blackdiamondjaguars where you can hear some samples our tunes and soon you’ll be able to order our EP for a very modest price. www.facebook.com/blackdiamondjaguars has some full songs on as well now. We have a loada hot pics n shit as well on there for everyone to perv over! We LOVE being perved over! And also being told that as well so get your comments going, hell we’ll give a prize to the most perverted comment!

18. Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?

L. A Whittle would like to thank Clint probably for paying for his share of stuff! L.A did give him a jacket to be fair......that doesn’t even fit or get worn by me but it’s cool I guess haha.

Thanks to our recording studio for being so cool with us and not breaking any legs!

19. What is the most toughest interview question you've been asked?

Who’s the hottest band member definitely. We obviously all think its each other but hey we’ll start a poll online soon if we haven’t murdered each other by then!

Tell you what guys just comment in the pics who’s the hottest and we’ll add them all up n then fight each other over it!

20. Any last words?

Yea we just want to let everyone know that Black Diamond Jaguars can’t be stopped. We’re an onslaught of undeniable Rock, sleaze greatness. We’re coming to get you fuckers and your guna get it whether you want it or not! So brace yourself you fellow hot rock fans and to all rock non – believers, get ready to feel helpless you pussy bitches!

We’re here to do the business!

The Absolute Root of All Evil with Vocalist Angela of Arch Enemy

2009-09-10T15:49:00.006-05:00

Melodic + Death + Metal = 13 how did this happen? I'll tell you how it happened, it happened through the eyes of a Swedish factor this factor not just referring to one but to four other members as well this rounding up to being known as Arch Enemy. I managed to catch up with their front women Angela Gossow and she discussed with me about the band’s eighth album to date along with what to expect from the band within the coming months leading right into the brand New Year.

1. "The Root of All Evil," is your eighth album to date, along with the band itself being around for 13 years, how does all of this make you feel?

Angela: Old….. It’s pretty cool I didn’t think I’d still be doing this, after all of these years, when I first started listening to metal music was when I was 14 years old. I didn’t think I’d still be actively involved within the metal scene, to this day though I still enjoy being up on the stage and screaming my head off. I don’t find it boring at all I find it very “cool”.

2. When it comes to touring would you ever consider, touring with an all female run, i.e. Arch Enemy, Kittie, Otep, Walls Of Jericho, In This Moment, etc.

Angela: I think all of those other bands are cool, I’m a fan of Walls Of Jericho I like that tom boy attitude they tend to push out. But to have all those acts come together you’d have to get the press informed and see what would happen.

3. Do you think music will ever come to exist in digital form only?

Angela: It’s just the quality of the movement nowadays and what the kids are into doing. But a lot of bands are releasing their albums through vinyl and I’m tired of collecting CD’s I do go out and buy them but to have a shelve filled with over 200 CD’s and having to move those it takes a lot of time. I do think it’s still cool that vinyl is back in the mix though.

4. Would you say that there has been a shift in your approach to songwriting over the past two years? How would you describe the change, if so?

Angela: Each band tends to progress their sound and try not to repeat the same song twice. When you release a brand new product you come up with new arrangements of course that end sounding a lot better than your previous recordings having the band mature.

5. What are your plans for the remainder of 2009 into 2010?

Angela: We’re going to be touring in October going over to Europe, and then over to Australia and New Zealand then when Christmas time arrives we’ll be at home of course, and then come the New Year we’re trying to see if we can come to the U.S. and tour out there.

6. What are your favorite tracks on the new record and what do they mean to you?

Angela: I like all the old recordings we did, performing those re-recordings in a live setting really puts the perceptive on the whole picture.

7. Are you looking forward to getting back to the UK/US? What are your favorite memories of playing over there and in the U.S.?

Angela: I liked Canada, and the U.S. very amazing and positive experience. While out In Europe, we’re not sure if they like the show or not, it’s just pure silence but overall it’s a good show.

8. Is there any particular setting or festival in the UK that you’d like to play but haven’t yet?

Angela: There are a handful of festivals that we have yet to set foot upon. We hope to play more festivals come next year.

9. If you could tour with one person or band, still going or broken up, who would you choose to tour with and why?

Angela: We’ve already toured with Slayer and Megadeth so another option would have to be Judas Priest, I love those guys I actually got to meet those guys and think it would be awesome to play with them.

10. Any last words?

Angela: Everybody reading this interview right now you rock and keep a look out for us we shall be invading your town and playing some shows for you very soon.

Buckcherry’s Founding Duo Discuses the Many Ways of Kiss

2009-09-09T17:56:00.001-05:00

Buckcherry is one of those modern every day hard rock acts that just never seems to fade away or get old as other bands tend to do from time to time. As far as Buckcherry goes, this is an act worthy of a cause and that cause is to create music. Creating music since the band's formation back in 1995 and having 4 albums tucked under their belts, Buckcherry had the chance of a lifetime when going out on tour with Kiss back in 99. Now the time has returned to reunite these mighty warriors with the almighty legends of rock n roll music once again. Lead vocalist Josh Todd and lead guitarist Keith Nelson held a teleconference where a handful of journalists had the chance to talk to these musicians discussing exactly how and why Kiss meant so much to them along with what’s in store come the New Year.

1. When you tour with Kiss do you plan on coming out to jam with the guys?
Keith: If I' am asked I will definitely come out, rocking out with the platform shoes for sure I’ am not afraid.

2. What can the kids expect, when you play with Kiss?

Keith: Nothing like we’ve had a conversation about, I don't really see Kiss, as being one of those bands you see yourself getting on stage with and still feel at home I don’t know. Have you heard anything Josh?

Josh: No we did a full tour with them on our first record 24 shows in Europe - I think it would really take away from the show, with the make-up and crazy production it’s a really great rock show and I don’t think they’re a “jamming” type of band.
3. Why tour with Kiss?

Josh: The reason we’re touring with Kiss is because we really wanted to be involved with the 35 years existence that rock n roll music has established to this day and time. That’s impressive for anybody, to accomplish and they’ve broken a lot of rules and we love it. We’re a rock n roll band and from what I understand is this is a true rock n roll show, this is going to ride out into many years to come and Kiss is one of those bands that always puts on an incredible show hands down.

4. Why now, did you decide to put out this live album?

Keith: Honestly this is the first time that we’ve actually had the opportunity to do it the way we had out wanted to. Luckily we’re back with Eleven Seven Music and there is no reason not to do it.

5. Is the song "Crazy Bitch" based on an actual experience?

Josh: Yeah I came up with the chorus for "Crazy Bitch" while driving around L.A. and it was right around the time the Paris Hilton sex tapes had came out. I thought it was funny how someone had launched their career by a homemade porno and then I started thinking about all the crazy girls I had came encountered with. When I was a young man 18-25 I could never attracted girls who were always insane, great in bed but were sucked when it came to playing the girlfriend role. So I came up with this chorus and called Keith talking to him about how I had wanted it to lie out, so that was simple and easy to figure out. I wanted it to sound like a rap song but more of a rock song vibe. That's basically out it was born. It became a phenomenal and we definitely needed it at the time.

6. How did you choice what songs would go on the album besides the obvious choices of course.

Keith: We wanted to have an actual reputation of what a night in a life of what Buckcherry is about. So we recorded 6 shows, during the spring while out on the Canadian tour and listened back to what we had and took it from there.

7. Do you have a time table as far as when we’ll be hearing new material from you guys?

Keith: We actually do have a time table, we have some great ideas on what we got kicking around and excited about but our main focus is on the upcoming tour but for sure you’ll be seeing some new material come next year.

8. What can you tell us about the song “Highway Star” which is on the enhanced version of “Black Butterfly”?

Josh: It was a song we had done for NASCAR and it became their theme of the year on top of that. We don’t normally do cover songs, it is a Deep Purple cover so we cut the song up a bit and put our own touch on it and it now sounds more like a Buckcherry song. We had wanted to re-release the album so that everyone who got the album could experience the song, plus it sounds so much better blending it with all the other songs.

9. How much has the band matured since the first time you toured with Kiss?

Keith: Not only have we matured, we had 3 different members at the time when we first gone out on tour back in 99, I think when we first toured with them we had finished our first record which wasn’t even released yet and to now have 4 records deep into our career - all of our fans can play with. So now we’re 700/800 shows better than the last time we played with them. *Laughs*

10. Do think there is a lot of pressure on you now, that you’ve matured, and so much longer and confidence.

Josh: There is definitely more confidence, don’t think there is much pressure, I think it’s more excitement to join forces with them once again and its going to be a monstrous rock show being able to learn from what they’ve brought to the table for us to learn off of.

11. Is there going to be a DVD shot at one of the shows on this upcoming tour?

Keith: I don’t know I didn’t hear that rumor.

12. Why should people pick up your live album?

Josh: We have a great reputation for putting on a live show and we worked really hard on this record, we had done a weeklong series of shows, 6 in total, and we wanted to capture that live experience. Being able to play some extended songs here and there and just throw it altogether.

13. How was it to work with Escape the Fate on their latest album, would you ever go on tour with those guys?

Josh: We actually did a show with them in the summer a couple of those shows over out on the East Coast I don’t know if our styles of rock would cut it - but those guys were really but those guys were really fantastic to work with I had a great time we had a lot of fun I’m sure we’ll do it again at some point. Those guys got a real good fan base now and I’m so happy they stuck it out and got a new singer and moved on from what they were dealing with.

14. Any tour anxieties?

Keith: No none whatsoever. Tour anxieties, those like performance anxieties, no we can definitely get it done.

15. When you were growing up was Kiss one of those bands you just heard of or were they a major influence to you guys as a whole.

Josh: I liked how they wrote their songs, very simple not too much clutter within their music, as far as instruments goes, it was just straight up raw rock n roll. That’s pretty much how we were with our music. It’s not just music it’s an art form as well, and they did a really great job with the whole imaginary was just no one had ever done it was incredible.

16. Do you think Kiss deserves the Hall Of Fame?

Keith: They have outlasted everybody taking the commercial parts of rock n roll to a level that no one can even come close to full filling.

17. You had taken out one of the tracks and replaced it with “Highway Star” why?

Keith: It wasn’t as much pulling out as much as putting in. *Laughs* I don’t like records that are too long so thought it was the right move to make.

Josh: As far as the way it rolls out within the line-up the way “Highway Star” plays, it makes it all blend in together.

18. How would you explain the success that “Black Butterfly” has gotten over your previous entries?

Keith: I think there was really 10 long years of hard work put into it all, touring non-stop and we’re one of those bands that will be in your town sooner or later and 100 shows later and work effort there really isn’t anyone else in the market place that know how to do it as well as we do.

19. How would you describe the “marriage” you have with one another?

Keith: When we get together it just works, there are things that we can’t do but when it comes to music we can get it done. That’s what’s lead us to being such a great band, getting better and better. At times we just look at one another and instantly know what we want to accomplish when making music.

20. If you could choice a member of Kiss’s make-up to wear, who would you pick and why?

Keith: I think we’d all be fighting for Paul. *laughs*

Josh: I’d definitely want to be the demon child.

21. Do you have any other projects you’re currently working on?

Keith: We got something in store its’ definitely going to be a departure of what we’re doing.

Josh: Definitely music.

22. How do you feel about Kiss not touring with the whole original line-up?

Keith: Well you’re speaking to 2 guys that know what its like to keep a band together is. I absolutely respect everything that Kiss stands for. You never know what happens behind closed doors, as far as what we say about it, I’m glad that they’re keeping Kiss alive and well.

Josh: It’s going to be a tight and powerful machine when it comes to Kiss.
23. What's it like touring with all these "legendary" artists i.e. Motley Crue, Kiss, who's next on the list?

Keith: Just the sound of chicks with guns, does things for me, we’ve already done some shows with Aerosmith, AC/DC, so we’ve hit the Holy Gail of famous rockers, who’s left The Stones, Metallica, whose left Josh?

Josh: I’d like to tour with Slipknot but don’t think we’re heavy enough, but I’d like to tour with Prince.

24. If you had a chance to be featured on a cartoon show, i.e. South Park, The Simpsons, or Family Guy, which would it be and why?

Josh: I think Family Guy aims towards Buckcherry’s style but I’m not sure how we would fit within the episode but it’d be fun to watch.

25. Any last words?

Keith: Thank you.

Josh: Thank you.

Get Your Theme On with Saint Motel: The Interview

2009-09-09T17:31:00.003-05:00

Saint Motel is a difficult act to describe but yet very hard to resist and damn right fun overall when it comes to their theatrical set ups performance wise. But when you narrow it all down, Saint Motel is made up of A/J (Vocals,Guitars), A Sharp (Guitar), Greg Erwin (Drums and Dak (Bass), together these musicians constantly experiment over and over again pushing the boundaries of their creativity taking it to a whole new level each and every time. Front man A/J spoke to me briefly about how the band came to be along with the process of how their debut EP came around down to everything else in between with this brief in your face conversation.

1. Tell us about the band, where did the name come from and how did you form?

A/J: We're from all over but we formed in film school from Chatsmen from Orange County and that’s how the band started. I'm from Indianapolis, the guitarist is from the Valley and the bassist is from Thailand, and the drummer is from Northern California.

2. "ForPlay," is out, tell us about it, what does the title mean, what are your favorite tracks off it, how did the CD release show go?

A/J: The EP release show was awesome. Personally I thought I was going to explode the entire time we were playing. The crowd was awesome it was a great experience. It all came together quite well we always have a certain theme and that night we had a sci/fi atmosphere going on. To me the title refers to the beginning of something to come, for instance our band. As far as a favorite track goes, I liked them all actually. There all different and have different origins and stories to them, and what we were going through all that type of stuff I think I love them all as if they’re like children to me.

3. Tell us about the concept behind the "Dear Dictator" and "Butch" music videos.

A/J: We decided to go for it and a lot of friends helped us out and it all came together. It was great fun to do and create.

4. Why do you do what you do, is it because of the fame and fortune, or because of the music.

A/J: I don’t think it’s the fame or fortune because we don’t have that yet. It definitely has to do with the music because we love to create music. We always have and always will.

5. Any last words?

A/J: Our EP is out now and available on iTunes and when you buy it off there you get our music videos for free, so don’t think there has been another band out there that has done that type of thing. Also be sure to watch out for us, we will be hitting your town very soon, because each of our show has a certain theme we throw out there. Our next show is an erotic theme, it’s going to be crazy every single night so come out and have some fun with us.

Courtney Fortune Gets Interviewed

2009-09-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

Courtney Fortune was able to briefly talk to me about how music has affected her along with discussing her latest albums and what awaits her on the horizon for the remainder 2009 year into the New Year come 2010.

1. What genre of music do you consider your work to be? Who are your major influences?

Courtney: My style is a mixture of jazz and pop, I grew up listening to jazz staples like Sarah Vaughn, Nina Simone, Bill Evans and Stan Getz - but I also live and breath what’s happening in music today, I love Radiohead, Neko Case, Rachael Yamagata, Shugo Tokumaru. I think everything I’m into infuses vintage and modern elements.

2. How long have you known Chris Walden? How did you meet?

Courtney: I met Chris about a year after I moved to LA. I was doing demo work for a local songwriter who brought me along to an Oscar Nomination Party, Chris and I just started talking about jazz and immediately connected. Soon he had hired me to write some lyrics and I was rehearsing to sing for his big band.

3. When did you unite with the Chris Walden Big Band? What inspired you to make music together?

Courtney: I’ve always dreamed of singing with a big band, especially one as incredible as Chris Walden’s. When I perform with them I feel completely consumed by sound, it’s an amazing feeling. Shortly after Chris and I started working together he approached me about producing my debut album. His vision was to combine jazz with elements of my modern influences and our different songwriting styles. The opportunity to work with Chris both collaboratively and creatively is truly amazing.

4. Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?

Courtney: Yes, I’ve recently signed with Origin Records (Origin was named JazzWeek’s “Label of the Year” congrats guys!)

5. What can you tell me about your instruments?† Do you play guitar, or was it used as a prop in your music video? (Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever ís available? What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it a style/model/brand/color preference?)

Courtney: I write all my songs on guitar and piano but when I perform I’m with my full band. I love working with different musicians, the more sound I have on stage with me, the better.

6. Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?

Courtney: I grew up in Seattle ’s jazz circuit, playing club gigs and bars long before I was supposed to – but that’s where I learned how to be a performer and work with bands. I’ve played shows throughout Japan – some of my favorite memories are from the time I spent at The Kobe Jazz Festival and the people I met while singing in Tokyo. Also, I was recently in London doing more shows, another place I’m crazy about. My “Speak Love” album release party is going to be at the Catalina Bar & Grill on September 22, which will be a great time and is open to everyone. You can also catch my shows and my residency at Room 5 Lounge in Los Angeles!

7. Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?

Courtney: I’m happiest when I'm playing my own music - there’s just something about performing something you’ve written, it speaks to you differently. But I love covers, other than my passion for old torch music I’ve always been interested in taking my favorite rock songs and doing jazz arrangements of them. It started when I was sixteen, I recorded a version of Oasis’s “Champagne Supernova” with a jazz group including the late Larry Knechtal. On my album the first track is a cover of “Care of Cell 44” by The Zombies, I’m a huge fan of them.

8. What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?

Courtney: There is nothing better than working with other musicians, being in a band and playing music – it’s one of those things that is worth working like crazy for.

9. Anything else you'd like to add?

Courtney: My album “Speak Love” is out on Origin Records, thank you and hope to see you at our shows!

Boys Like Girls Get Love Drunk

2009-09-07T20:55:00.004-05:00

Three years have come and gone and what was done between the time span well writing and creating brand new music of course from a wide range of various artists and bands alike. One act being a pop rock sensation that grasped the world within the palm of their hands soon after the release of their self-titled debut back in 2006. But now that – that time has come and gone, the next round of creation is upon is in an entitled effort known as “Love Drunk”.

This follow-up takes the rock set that was presented and does a 180 degree turn into the pop direction? These modern pop rockers were indeed considered a pop rock sensation from all of their musical spectrums found upon their previous attempts - but this time they've taken the "pop" genre to a higher standard. Their first single being the title track proved that their former hit “The Great Escape,” was just a glimpse into the musical direction that these Boston goers were aiming towards. That being said, a chiming lead guitar riff comes thundering in reminding us of their other smash hit "Thunder," taking us back to that past lifestyle.

The introduction kicks in, taking this pop rock roller coaster ride into a spiraling sensation completely reminding you of those poppy bouncy teenagers getting caught up within the poppy chorus that grasps upon their hearts and souls. Many bands tend to abuse the key changes when formatting their songs, giving them that mainstream flair. The amazing swing found throughout this album, captures the missing fillings found within each song played. Causing this record to maintain to their pop-rock sound just like their previous works, not lacking of substance or originality whatsoever. "Two Better Than One," strikes the proper chord being the most beautiful acoustic song to feature the rhythm guitar and vocal effects their front man, Martin Johnson could ever express.

Whereas the more back tracked tunes “Contagious,” and “The Shot Heard ‘Round The World,” go back into the direction these poppy goers had wanted and maintain to establish when it comes down to formatting music. The instrumental flair rises upward causing an overheating mixture of guitar leads and catchy riffs with catchy chorus to take you over from start to finish. Boys Like Girls may have been gone for three long years but have returned with a more matured sound and style to balance it evenly and according to what they had intended to do.

Buckcherry Get Live and Loud in 2009

2009-09-06T22:53:00.001-05:00

Being a Grammy-nominated act is one thing but being from Los Angeles, California the capitol of the whole music franchise known to man-kind is a whole another story completely. That's when local hard rockers Buckcherry come into view - forming in 1995 being around for 14 years now, the band has released numerous albums to date, Buckcherry (1999) and Time Bomb (2001), before dissolving in the summer of 2002. When 2005 had arisen, lead vocalist Josh Todd and guitarist Keith Nelson had formed a brand spanking new band, using the Buckcherry moniker releasing new material entitled "15" (2006).

Since that album debut, Buckcherry has never looked back on their musical career in any means possible except perhaps one.... which is of course, onward to the future. Going off to doing constant tours and recording their follow-up "Black Butterfly" (2008) being a standoff for them, this act had the opportunity of a lifetime, being able to hit the road with metal legends Motley Crue on the very first festival known simply as "Crue Fest". Taking the world literally by storm with one single shot - wrapping that all up when it was all said and done and decided to go forth and unleash their first live album. That believe it or not really captures the real live Buckcherry experience. "Live & Loud 2009," is the name and song playing is the game to play because Buckcherry's biggest hits are included such as “Sorry,” “Crazy Bitch,” “Lit Up,” “Ridin’” and “Everything,” as well as songs from "Black Butterfly," (2008). But that's not all you get when listening to the full enforced live action packed Buckcherry, you get an overdose of pure hard rock n' roll! Getting thrown a series of non-stop tunes you can bob your head too or catch yourself easily singing right along too.

Buckchrry's upbeat and catchy lyrical chorus lines aside from the amazing instrumental portions thrown into the mix, really defines the band's unique sound and style. Having the music build upon itself as each song is played out slowing formatting the music piece by piece. When the album is all said and done you truly believe that you - yourself was indeed at a real live Buckcherry concert experience, their musical presents is that good live.

Saint Motel Checks Out Some ForPlay Action

2009-09-05T22:17:00.000-05:00

It seems like L.A. just can't get enough music to toss around so they sweep up each and every act strolling down the street. Is this a good form to use when picking out "the next best thing" in music, perhaps it is but then again maybe it isn't such a good idea to go along with. In this case though, an acceptation is put into effect, creating it quite hard to describe the music in general.

This indie rock n roll act Saint Motel is hard to resist with their drumming matters of fun, upbeat lyrics with catchy instrumental proportions slithering in and out of the music being played. What more could you expect, except perhaps maybe an EP to follow right along? "ForPlay," is the name and EP making is the game that has been made, crafting together a mere 6 simple songs that put you directly at ease as soon as the opener takes off..... "Eat Your Heart Out," 'Dear Dictator," along with "Pity Party," and "To My Enemies," is the bunch-ups that sound the catchiest.

Crafting out the most modern going rock n roll music available, Saint Motel tends to build up the adrenaline over and over each time their music blasts right on through. Clashing together the modern everyday mixtures with the over the edge fast pace rush of what L.A. considers “rock”.

Natasha's Stardom

2009-09-05T15:14:00.001-05:00

Being considered hotter than the blazing California wild fires, comes songstress, Natasha James – her album "Tequila Time," being a rapid aggression within the mainstream music scene.

Her music and vocal skills have been described as "country steeped in blues and tex-mex with a nod to Janis Joplin and Emmy Lou Harris". Not only that but "Tequila Time," is nominated in the "Country Album of the Year," category and Jame's catchy tune "Get Out Of My Way," has been nominated for "Country Single of the Year" to top it all off, at this year’s 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards.

Natasha has crafted together a well rounded position of music that has roamed around the music zone long enough that it’s earned her rightful taste of the musician’s spotlight. Allowing her musical abilities to soar ever so higher that it shall glide right up in and on through the clouds off into the stars.

Saosin's In Search Of Solid Ground

2009-09-05T13:47:00.000-05:00

Saosin is a intended to be one of those post-hardcore bands but easily falls into the alternative rock n' roll category a lot easier. That being said, the band formed in 2003 and is from Newpor Beach, California, the band itself consists of vocalist Cove Reber, guitarists Beau Burchell and Justin Shekoski, bassist Chris Sorenson, and drummer Alex Rodriguez.

Their self-titled efforts exploded when it was unleashed in 2006 but three years later what has become of the almighty Saosin? Were they able to bring up their music ability up a notch to satisfy their every need? The band thinks so at least that’s what can be heard and said when it comes to their second attempt at music making, "In Search of Solid Ground," three of the songs being re-recordings that were offered on their brief but short EP "The Grey" (2008). But that was then and now we're dealing with this effortlessness.

Since word has gotten out a handful of numerous tracks have been floating around the net and those tracks happen to be the most unique and catchiest of 13 offered. "On My Own," "Is This Real," "Changing," along with "The Worst of Me," and "It's All Over Now," are just the highlights of what Saosin has to express both musically and instrumentally speaking. As far as musically goes, the music has indeed matured and grown expressing the band as a whole showcasing their abilities a lot more while the instrumental parts have that on/off effect from time to time. "Changing," the music progresses fast and heavily all in one single shot as the song plays a non-stop pattern that tends to just repeat it. While "On My Own," and "Is This Real?" tend to beat up one another competing for which is more aggressive than the other guess you would say.

When the music draws itself to a closing point rounding off the whole album, Saosin's "In Search of Solid Ground," is a more focused and matured source of music unleashing their abilities a lot more detailed than ever before.....