tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25452063648669113952024-03-13T08:30:43.945-05:00Uncharted Music NewsA blog that focuses on unsigned bands in the U.S. and Canada.joeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09316013420801345389noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-88238435683974818772012-01-05T12:00:00.000-06:002012-01-05T12:00:03.192-06:00The Mess, Seasons Album Released<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djrv6Sb8new/TwW44JKGgII/AAAAAAAAAVI/D-1-7Rz6Qi4/s1600/Mess001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-djrv6Sb8new/TwW44JKGgII/AAAAAAAAAVI/D-1-7Rz6Qi4/s1600/Mess001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In 2008, Mike Gross was in between bands and things weren't looking so great. He was writing music and completed about nine songs before guitarist Brandon Lowe suggested playing the songs together. They quickly put a band together and Mike named the band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/official.the.mess" target="_blank">The Mess</a>. "I felt like everything was a mess. No, I was 'The Mess'. Kind of stuck from there. Just thought it fit my life. I think most people can relate at one time or another." Recalls Mike.<br />
With their electronic focus, meaningful lyrics and poppy melodies, the band hailing from San Jose, CA has released a few albums and has even shared the stage with bands like Scary Kids Scaring Kids and The Sleeping. The band's diverse music taste has their sound influenced by bands like Jimmy Eat World, Saves The Day, and even Skrillex. Another huge influence on the band is dubstep and dance music. "We are heading into the electronic/digital age. We embrace it." Says Mike.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CgIthu-Ku40/TwW44c1atUI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/vZTN8ExcgoE/s1600/Mess002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CgIthu-Ku40/TwW44c1atUI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/vZTN8ExcgoE/s1600/Mess002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
On December 9th, 2011, the band released their album, Seasons. Seasons was their best received album online and received several positive responses. The album's content revolves around the many events the band has gone through over the last two years. "Extreme loss, extreme heartbreak, extreme joy and all shades in between. It starts with April Showers and ends with May Flowers." Says Mike. "[The Album] is a bit darker than our last two releases. Life happens. You wake up changed. You see through new eyes. I just try to keep the songs about meaningful things."<br />
The album's sound is made up of heavy drums and melodic, catchy vocals. The band had hoped it would create a great electronic blend that was both big in sound and fully developed. "The songs on Seasons sound more grown and have a depth and maturity our previous albums did not." Says Mike. "I feel like we have created our own sound. Something completely our own. We really could not be happier and we have a lot of amazing fans that support us."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8-S-mDR_EA/TwW444KYVTI/AAAAAAAAAVY/_lhAwdw3R9A/s1600/Mess003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_8-S-mDR_EA/TwW444KYVTI/AAAAAAAAAVY/_lhAwdw3R9A/s1600/Mess003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
So what's next for the band? The band hopes to release a music video for the first track on the album, "April Showers." They are going to continue pushing the album, which you can buy at a show or online. The band will focus on pushing the album and expanding their fan base(and of course, taking over the world). Be sure to check the band out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/official.the.mess" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for sweet updates!<br />
And now a word from the band! "Stay hopeful. Think for yourself. We hope to meet all of you some day in the future. Thanks to everyone that gives us a listen. I know its cliche but we would be nowhere without our fans. Thank you all."JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com29San Jose, CA, USA37.3393857 -121.894955537.1373982 -122.21081249999999 37.5413732 -121.5790985tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-12565907520734826722012-01-03T12:00:00.000-06:002012-01-03T14:34:42.719-06:00Unquiet Night, Irish Rock Band<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHawfxFvU4U/TwMpUsfk0LI/AAAAAAAAAUs/ITV002gGA3Y/s1600/Unquiet001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OHawfxFvU4U/TwMpUsfk0LI/AAAAAAAAAUs/ITV002gGA3Y/s1600/Unquiet001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Although originally conceived in 2006, it wasn't until 2010 that the rock and roll band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unquietnights" target="_blank">Unquiet Nights</a>, was ready to take things to the next level. The Irish band comes from Belfast in Northern Ireland, but does many shows and interviews in Umbria, Italy, as well. "It’s more functional than it sounds, we’ve had some opportunities in Italy because of it which is great. Hopefully more, in a country of 60m people there are more radio stations, festivals and tours happening around the place. Coming from a very small country that’s interesting." Says Luke Mathers, band guitarist and vocalist.<br />
So how would one describe the band's sound? Well, you get down to the root of the British Invasion in delta blues, country, and gospel music. Take a look at The Rolling Stones, and then write powerful songs influenced by Dylan, Cohen, Springsteen, and Neil Young. "These influences are edited down to something which is pretty direct, song based, clean production, and which can hopefully get radio play. At its best it’s got the song writing sensibility of Detroit Soul, but then there are lead guitar lines on top of that which weren’t really a part of that sound. We’ve made it a bit heavier. Paul Weller has an album called Heavy Soul, maybe something like that." Says Mathers.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAWp0h1Me1k/TwMpU21a9EI/AAAAAAAAAU0/Dcw_k-z-vLQ/s1600/Unquiet002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yAWp0h1Me1k/TwMpU21a9EI/AAAAAAAAAU0/Dcw_k-z-vLQ/s1600/Unquiet002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
21st Century Redemption Songs, the band's debut album, was recently released on Christmas Day. The album had been in production since the summer of 2010, with songs having been written even earlier. "There are a lot of recognizable themes in the writing," Says Mathers. "None of the characters [in the songs] are coming from a place of having much money. [They] are trying to find ways their life can be meaningful. There’s a relentless quality to all of it. [These] same people have appeared a lot on the album. Simple concepts like love songs, have been twisted into a more complicated thing to suit the 21st century, where obviously matters like that are much more complicated. People listening very closely will identify with the stories that are being told."<br />
Other albums are the biggest influence in shaping the album. " [Albums] that seem finite and with a definite start and end, with a particular set of characters living in that album are the ones I’ve thought of as the most perfect “albums” from start to finish. I’m thinking of Springsteen (Darkness, Born To Run), Dylan (Desire, John Wesley Harding), Neil Young (After the Goldrush). Also the ones that say a lot about where an artist was in their life in that exact particular time like Layla, Exile on Main Street." <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YEOJdJn946w/TwMpVLICZ2I/AAAAAAAAAU8/gG4sDAlwc-M/s1600/Unquiet003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YEOJdJn946w/TwMpVLICZ2I/AAAAAAAAAU8/gG4sDAlwc-M/s1600/Unquiet003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Come February, the band will be playing shows around Dublin and Belfast, including the Belfast Nashville Songwriter’s Festival on Feb 24th. Mathers also says that he's ready to start thinking of the future, including the next album. "There’s a second album that’s forming in my head and that’ll always be ongoing. I already know the title of the album and [I'm] writing towards it now, but it will be at least a similar time frame before it’s finished. I’m really proud of 21st Century Redemption Songs." Later in the summer, the band will also be playing the World's End Festival in Austria.<br />
And now a word from the band! "People reading should go to <a href="http://www.unquietnights.com/music">www.unquietnights.com/music</a> and have a listen to 21st Century Redemption Songs. If you like it then let us know in some way. Buying it is great, but we love to see people joining the mailing list, or send an e-mail, like us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/unquietnights" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, whatever you want. It’s important for independent bands to know who their fan-base is and communicate directly to them in a way that’s not so important for every band. If you can’t buy it, share it with someone else!"JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com29Belfast, UK54.5974433 -5.934068354.523853800000005 -6.0919967999999995 54.6710328 -5.7761398tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-80492305253210627502011-12-14T15:54:00.000-06:002011-12-14T16:40:05.554-06:00Happy Holidays from Uncharted!As some of you may have noticed, the blog has been at a stand still for quite some time. The reason behind this is simple, I have a lot of different changes going on in my life and am currently unavailable to commit to the blog. This will all change January 2nd.<br />
<br />
I, joeEFFINGmayo, will be relocating to Biloxi, Mississippi next month. I will also begin working on the blog twice as hard as before. <br />
<br />
So, Happy Holidays everyone! I'll see you all next year!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
-joeEFFINGmayo</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">follow me on twitter! @joeeffingmayo</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
P.S. Also, I need bands, music bloggers, and show promoters to let me know if they want to be featured on the blog!</div>JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Loves Park, IL, USA42.3200189 -89.058162142.2260944 -89.2160906 42.4139434 -88.9002336tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-19688646920072523892011-11-21T12:00:00.000-06:002011-11-21T12:00:02.705-06:00Still The Sky; The Ground Between Your Feet<a href="https://www.facebook.com/StillTheSky" target="_blank">Still The Sky</a>, the Hardcore band out of Rockford, IL was first introduced on the blog in May. Since then, the band has been busier than ever, working on new material and playing several shows. We recently caught up with band vocalist, Tarek.<br /><br />What has the band been up to since I last spoke to you guys back in May?<br />
: Shows, shows, and more shows. Ya know, just trying to get a more
public fanbase rather than relying on online followers. We love playing,
and we love our music. So we try to do it as much as we can to let
people know what we're about! Besides that we've been spending a lot of
time writing new material and going over pre-production for our new EP
"The Ground Between Your Feet".<br /> <br /> The band recently parted ways with their drummer. What was his reason for departing? Has the band found a replacement?<br />
: Tyler, decided to leave the band because as we all knew he was a
heavier type of drummer. So, he continued on to make a new band called
"Exorcist" with a few of our buds from Ex-In The Year Of The Plague! We
wish those awesome dads a great amount of luck! We've been talking to a
couple people, but we're always down to try someone out if you think
what you've got what it takes! But for now, we'll be playin' with the
good ol' laptop.<br /> <br /> How was the online reception of your last album, Something Devious Is Upon Us? How will the new EP differ from this album?<br />
:Well we're actually glad you asked this! We decided not to release
"Something Devious Is Upon Us EP" because our style changed for the
better. But what we will be doing is re-recording all of our older
material for a bonus "Old School EP". <br /> <br /> Talk a bit about this new EP. It comes out December 15th, what can be expected from the release? <br />
: Energy & Emotion. We really liked our older stuff, but just
listening to it we've came to the conclusion that it just wasn't jumpy
enough! We like to bang our heads and jam out and we're sure you do to.
So it just had to change ya know? <br /> <br /> Tell me about E-void and
Remember What Fell. These are singles from the EP? What was the
influence behind these songs? Any big influences behind the EP?<br /> :
Indeed they are! And they are only a SMALL taste of what's to come from
the EP. E-Void was generally about feeling emotionally void, and
figuring out that the reason you were like that is because you're still
in love with that one person. Remember What Fell is for anyone that has
been screwed over, and yet somehow was still to blame. Basically this EP
has a lot of influences from common situations and is meant for anyone
to connect to it on a personal level. <br /> <br /> As always, the band is playing a ton of shows. What are a few upcoming shows for the band?<br />
: We've actually decided to go on a show Hiatus for a small amount time
until the EP drops. Because, we are putting a lot of time into the
album. Also when we find a new drummer we'll be making sure that we come
back solid, so you can hear our songs played like they sound on the EP.<br /> <br /> Whats the next few months looking like for the band?<br />: Just hard work. Promoting, and getting ourselves out there more than we
already are. But that's where the fans come in too! We need YOUR help!
So anything the fans can do, sharing us on people's walls, etc. IT
HELPS. So thank you! We love all of you very much!<br />
<br />
Be sure to check out the band's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StillTheSky" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, where you can get the latest news from the band and check out their songs.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com5Rockford, IL, USA42.2711311 -89.093995242.177134099999996 -89.251923699999992 42.3651281 -88.9360667tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-30117186751648962022011-11-10T18:27:00.001-06:002011-11-10T18:37:01.576-06:00Quicksand Swimclub; New Single<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lnptTlrWlo/TrxuFbejTBI/AAAAAAAAAUU/fuQ4giROyUQ/s1600/Quicksand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lnptTlrWlo/TrxuFbejTBI/AAAAAAAAAUU/fuQ4giROyUQ/s1600/Quicksand.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>We caught up with Dan of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/quicksandswimclub" target="_blank">Quicksand Swimclub</a>, who was featured on the blog <a href="http://unchartedmusicnews.blogspot.com/2011/05/quicksand-swimclub-looking-for-shows-in.html" target="_blank">earlier this summer</a>. The band is releasing their new single,"Better Days" this Monday, November 14th. </i><br />
<br />
<i>How's the band been since we last had you on the blog?</i><br />
: The band has gone through tremendous changes since we last spoke early summer with member changes and direction of sound. After touring the Midwest we decided to part ways with our former bassist to downsize to a three piece. That worked for a few months until Nik (original bassist/guitarist) left the band for personal reasons. Performing and meeting new people is the best part about being in a band so we are continuing as a two piece. No, we don't sound like the white stripes but we are aiming our new sound towards the post-hardcore/pop punk genre while putting our "touch" to it. <br />
<br />
<i>Any cool shows or accomplishments since the last we spoke? Tell me a bit about this upcoming Fusion show.</i>: Fusion Shows is a showcase company that is somewhat "prestigious" for local bands to play shows for. They buy the best tour packages and give have locals opening slots. This Saturdays show is a local show they are putting together to see what new upcoming acts are like that they haven't worked with yet. Hopefully its a huge success, I'm excited to play with American Opera.<br />
<br />
<i>What's this 89x voting thing?</i>: When I received the master file for "Better Days" I immediately sent it to 89x radio.com (new alternative rock station) thinking it was a shot in the dark and they would never give it the time of day. It's a huge deal to be on the radio to any musician let alone the biggest one of your genre. Turns out I was wrong and we made it to the finals of their Sunday night show which is an awesome opportunity for us. Even if we don't come out on top in the voting poll it's alright, at least they listened to us.<br />
<br />
<i>I see talk about a music video. Is that just talk? Or is that something the band is already working on getting done?</i>: We are using shots from current performances (including this weekend) and shooting close ups November 25th. We are about 80% done with plotting ideas and what not.<br />
<br />
<i>So tell me about this new song!</i>: We worked with Bryan Beeler (Chiodos, Cinematic Sunrise, The Swellers, We Are The Union, Squid The Whale) in our home town Northville, MI. I've known Bryan since my very first show in 7th grade seven years ago. This song is inspired from a friend who died in a car crash leaving a girlfriend of three years. The lyrics based from her point her point of view. There is a facebook page where his friends post thoughts about him and it's very touching: http://www.facebook.com/groups/100122036740121/<br />
<br />
<i>What's it about and what kind of things does the song explore?</i>: The lyrics explore what it is like to deal with death of a close one. "Better Days" is a sampler genre wise of QSSC. Melodic post-hardcore that halfway makes you wish there was screaming to a pop-punk verse and chorus drifting back into the melodic post-hardcore with a touch of rock and roll. The guitar, bass, and drum work are dramatically better in this recording. It's a step in the right direction.<br />
<br />
<i>What else can we expect from the band in the coming months?</i>: We have exciting shows in Michigan scheduled throughout Fall and Winter. In March we plan to take time off of shows to spend pre production for the new EP. We are recording a three song EP at 37 Studios (I See Stars, Chiodos, These Hearts) due to release late spring/early summer. Hopefully we will have exciting shows following the release.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com34Northville, MI, USA42.4311464 -83.483269242.4077069 -83.5227512 42.454585900000005 -83.443787199999989tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-38566898610036770212011-11-09T12:00:00.000-06:002011-11-09T12:02:26.333-06:00Nifty Breed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0z5YlKUr0c/Trq-bKjby3I/AAAAAAAAAT8/axlMFV0wj4E/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0z5YlKUr0c/Trq-bKjby3I/AAAAAAAAAT8/axlMFV0wj4E/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
After forming an alternative rock band in 2008, Matty was desperately trying to rid the band of the name they all seemed to hate. "I was trying to think of something that seemed both interesting and kind of silly." <a href="https://www.facebook.com/niftybreed" target="_blank">Nifty Breed</a>, looking good on paper, was the band's new name.<br />
Long Island has many small scenes all around, mostly dominated by pop-punk and hardcore bands. "Beyond that, there are some less popular but functioning alternative/indie scenes that would be more our style, but lately it seems everyones making the big move to the city, a move we aren't able to make yet. We kind of drift between every scene and don't really have roots in any particular one and I'm okay with that." Says Matty, the band vocalist and guitar player.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AmXj5qLnkIw/Trq-baT0vhI/AAAAAAAAAUE/fk1d4dcAex4/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AmXj5qLnkIw/Trq-baT0vhI/AAAAAAAAAUE/fk1d4dcAex4/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
This Long Island alternative rock band is made up of two pairs of lifelong friends. Matty and the band's drummer, Jordan, have been friends since they were toddlers. Alex, the band guitarist, and Brian, the bassist, have been friends since birth. "Originally Jordan and Brian were not in the band. Alex and I were playing a show together with a brand new drummer and no bassist (due to unfortunate circumstances) and Brian had come to see us play. Since we had just lost our bass player and I recently learned he played bass, I announced at that show that he was to be our new bass player. After another drummer or two, Jordan found his way into the band and it's been this line up since 2009." recalls Matty.<br />
The band's influence is drawn from bands like Nirvana, At the Drive-In, 311, Incubus, The Beatles, Silverchair and a lot of other bands from several genres. "We are a very diverse bunch. Our sound is really all over the place. We try not to stick to a distinct style when we write. Musically, some songs are heavy and some songs are more lighthearted, but overall it's all about melody. A lot of the songs lyrically are kind of dark and some may tie into others by chance but each song is able to stand on it's own. All the lyrics are personal and relate to me in one way or another. Sometimes I don't realize this until long after a song is written. Hopefully people can take what they want from our songs because they aren't written with any specific people or messages or themes in mind." Says Matty.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jl5eCjGd-_g/Trq-biiy11I/AAAAAAAAAUM/7eoJLq2Zhhc/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jl5eCjGd-_g/Trq-biiy11I/AAAAAAAAAUM/7eoJLq2Zhhc/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Talk Before You Speak, the band's debut album, will hopefully be made available in early 2012. "We spent a solid month just tracking everything, and now it is just a matter of making everything sound good and balanced. We are having fun experimenting with different ideas that we couldn't really do on the demos due to time constraints. Crazy ideas like strings, bongos, cowbell and insane noises, stuff we normally wouldn't have taken the time to try out. The public can expect an album that is basically us. Our heart and soul was put into this record and it will be very pure and very raw but still sound good, which is what I think every band strives for in an album."<br />
The band expects to continue playing shows and reach a wider audience. All the band truly wants out of their experiences is to be heard. Be sure to check out the band's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/niftybreed" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for updates on the band and upcoming debut album, Talk Before You Speak.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com2Long Island, New York, USA40.7891424 -73.134960540.019782400000004 -74.398388000000011 41.5585024 -71.871533tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-50019309572109443092011-11-08T12:00:00.000-06:002011-11-08T12:00:00.099-06:00Black Orchid Ritual<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DiJk-mXsfkc/TrlfHg5p62I/AAAAAAAAATk/XIQ2zDZY3r0/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DiJk-mXsfkc/TrlfHg5p62I/AAAAAAAAATk/XIQ2zDZY3r0/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Raven Elias has been playing music for a long time. In late 1999, he formed a cover band in Houston with his longtime friend, Robert Stilwell. The band had hoped to become an original band before long, but according to the band, it's a lot easier to make ends meet when you play songs everyone knows and loves. In 2004, the "band" recorded their debut album, but in 2008, they rerecorded the songs. It wasn't until a year later that the band was able to release it.<br />
Now, the band had been a band for about a decade, but it wasn't until the addition of Ukrainian bassist, Serge Romashyn, that <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/BLACK-ORCHID-RITUAL/120636584648758" target="_blank">Black Orchid Ritual</a> was born. the debut, all-original show was booked before Serge had even joined the band. He had assured Raven that he had learned 4 of the band's songs and after only one night of practice, the band played in front of 200 people.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z41KoTTyGFQ/TrlfH5jeiXI/AAAAAAAAATs/1GwZ5ycFfHM/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z41KoTTyGFQ/TrlfH5jeiXI/AAAAAAAAATs/1GwZ5ycFfHM/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin are among the band's influences, along with a lot of modern rock, macabre works, metal, and even classic horror movies and ghost stories. "(Our sound) is a bit retro, mixed beautifully and wisely with modern music. A bit of hard rock and heavy metal." The band also feels like modern rock music owes a lot to Black Sabbath. "Everyone sounds like Sabbath today, we owe everything to them. Nickelback, Green Day, all those bands, not just bands like Metallica or Marilyn Manson."<br />
At their shows, you might find props and art, fans dressed in costume, sometimes giant crosses with black drapes. "We love subtleness," jokes the band. "The sound and energy is furious and thrilling as well as chilling. a show filled with fog floating upon the stage floor, massive strobe lights flashing, beautiful cobalt blue lights sparkling, just look at one of those Led Zeppelin concert photos of the 70's,But with a lot of fans dressed like witches."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kiCAKFo239w/TrlfH2Jbv-I/AAAAAAAAAT0/pz-cD-A5SfU/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kiCAKFo239w/TrlfH2Jbv-I/AAAAAAAAAT0/pz-cD-A5SfU/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band wanted to talk a little bit about their debut album, and so we let them.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i> "As Sabbath's debut album was, ours was recorded on a small budget and was done very fast. It was a recording of 9 songs, with 2 of the songs being instrumentals. <br /> The album starts off with a woman screaming and then the first song hits hard into a number entitled MUSICAL BEDS; a song about the consequences of unprotected sex. A hard rock song guaranteed to make you think before you leave your condom at home. <br /> The second track is called NEVER SATISFIED; the song starts off again with an audio fx; a detuned unearthly voice speaks "DAMNED TO ETERNAL HUNGER", then a sludge-like guitar riff opens this metal rant about never being satisfied with anything in this life, even "when you have gotten everything" as the lyrics states. There are too many cool and interesting stuff to mention so I guess you'll have to play the CD."</i></blockquote>
Currently, the band's second album is in the works and the band had this to say about it, "Its gonna be the one that makes us. it will definitley have more than 10 tracks. The title itself sounds controversial, which we can not disclose at this time. Lets just say it in this way; Its gonna turn the Vatican pink and reveal alot of religious truth. It will be very Metal but not one sided. We like to feel that we can incorporate orchestrations and different instruments other than just shredding electric guitar. We're versatile, influenced by the greatest bands that ever was."<br />
They hope to release the album in late January. The band is also hoping to release an unplugged acoustic album this December which will include songs from the first album, as well as songs from the second. The band will continue playing shows in the coming months as well as building their fanbase online. Be sure to like the band on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/BLACK-ORCHID-RITUAL/120636584648758" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for updates on their upcoming shows and album updates!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com4Houston, TX, USA29.7601927 -95.369389629.319101200000002 -96.001103600000008 30.2012842 -94.7376756tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-58578170954972628792011-11-07T12:00:00.000-06:002011-11-07T12:00:00.837-06:00The Trabajabas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og3DrxXZwkw/TrgOT4BY0eI/AAAAAAAAATM/mu40g2MjzZI/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og3DrxXZwkw/TrgOT4BY0eI/AAAAAAAAATM/mu40g2MjzZI/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The Spanish word "trabajaba" loosely translates to "used to work." One alternative ska band thought it would be clever to name their band, The Used-to Workers, thus calling themselves, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/trabajabas" target="_blank">The Trabajabas</a>. The Pittsburgh band really stands out from the small predominantly pop-punk music scene in the area. Their large band and band instruments aren't hard to spot, and their wide variety of ska and indie songs are easy to notice among the other bands. "We're that unique band that kind of throws people off a bit when they see us. In a good way, of course." Says the band.<br />
The first ska band attempt was a no-go, the band was attempted and quickly failed. The following year in November 2009, the band tried again. This time taking it much more serious and it worked. "It all just started off as a group of somewhat strangers that got together through some mutual friendships. We basically just wanted to start a ska band." The band didn't truly evolve into their current sound until the addition of Aaron Rodden in the fall of 2010, bringing the member count to 9. "Having a band with so many talented people is definitely a plus. But it's quite difficult to match up our schedules and get a full band practice together. And since the age range is so vast, two of us being in college and the rest still in high school, it's necessary to get stand-ins so that things can continue to run. The major benefit of having such a big band is that there are endless possibilities when it comes to making songs. We are all versatile musicians and it's always exciting to put together something new."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_4R-oEoGR4/TrgOUKJ1EwI/AAAAAAAAATU/0fa5R-B9-M4/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_4R-oEoGR4/TrgOUKJ1EwI/AAAAAAAAATU/0fa5R-B9-M4/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Their are several music influences for many of the individual members, but as a band, they are influenced by bands like Streetlight Manifesto, Arctic Monkeys, Rx Bandits, and The Shins. "It's also interesting to see how each of us has our taste in music and how we apply it to the band as a whole." says the band. Using these influences, the band sculpts and interesting blend of ska, indie, and even some funk. "Our sound is almost indescribable. Some songs are quite funky (like "Strawberry Jam") and others are a mixture of indie and ska (like "Deep Sea Diving"). The beauty of our band is that we just play the music we feel like playing. We don't chain ourselves down to a single genre. But if i had to specify, I would say we are indie rock alternative and ska. Some recurring themes in our songs are references to sea life and horses...just because." Says the band.<br />
Winning the Mr. Smalls Next Big Thing Tour competition in Pittsburgh is among some of the band's many accomplishments. "25-35 bands were selected to be on the tour and each band was given about 15-20 of set time. The show ran from 11am to 11pm. We played at 7pm, and by that time there were about a good 1000+ people there. At the end of the performances a group of judges selected by the Mr. Smalls staff got together and announced the top three places, in which we won first, and $750." The band also played The Altar Bar Battle of the Bands, winning their first round. Unfortunately, due to scheduling conflicts, the band was unable to play their second round, but they received a high quality recording of their live performance.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCuKGf7QtCk/TrgOURkSIWI/AAAAAAAAATc/noukFYCnjXI/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GCuKGf7QtCk/TrgOURkSIWI/AAAAAAAAATc/noukFYCnjXI/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band was very proud to share the stage with Fishbone, one of the first innovators of new wave ska music. The band opened for the ska legends at the Altar Bar, where the show was sold out, but things have a tendency not to go as planned. "Unfortunately, it was the same day of a huge snow storm (about 2 or 3 feet of snow accumulated). It was a huge let down because it would have been packed otherwise. Either way, we enjoyed opening for such an innovative band and later watching them play." Says the band. "They are phenomenal performers."<br />
Tonight (Monday, November 7th, 2011) the band will be opening for The Supervillains @ The Smiling Moose in Pittsburgh. The band has some big shows planned for the holidays, where the band plans to play lots of new material live. "This coming summer is also going to be a big one. We will probably spend less time in the studio and more time playing shows. And with college coming around the corner for more members of the band, we don't know how much longer we will be around." So get your dose of The Trabajabas before it's too late! Check out the band on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/trabajabas" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for updates on the band's activity! JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Pittsburgh, PA, USA40.4406248 -79.995886440.3439463 -80.1538149 40.537303300000005 -79.8379579tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-27918202845030806132011-11-04T12:00:00.000-05:002011-11-04T12:00:03.419-05:00Dreams From Gin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZA2ujRWzgc/TrNVCwTnsbI/AAAAAAAAASs/9QWcx1Z7Ls8/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZA2ujRWzgc/TrNVCwTnsbI/AAAAAAAAASs/9QWcx1Z7Ls8/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
With a unique and fitting name, Rochester alternative rock band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dreamsfromgin" target="_blank">Dreams From Gin</a>, has racked up quite the interesting resume. The band opened for Local H, which happened to be guitarist/vocalist Tyson Prince's childhood rock n'roll band, in Syracuse and opened for Grammy-nominated artist, Chris Trapper in fall 2010. The band was also featured in the PS3 and PC video game, Beat Hazard Ultra.<br />
The band's home base is Rochester, New York where they are very proud with their local music scene. "Rochester has a popular local music scene lurking beneath the surface. We have two popular radio stations, 90.5 WBER and 89.7 WITR that constantly plays local indie music. We have several clubs, including the BugJar, that constantly books national and local bands of all flavors." Although the band has a hard time fitting into the prominent genres in the area. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u4SlAU7a59k/TrNVDKrwh-I/AAAAAAAAAS0/iIGukOMDTXU/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u4SlAU7a59k/TrNVDKrwh-I/AAAAAAAAAS0/iIGukOMDTXU/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
"Instead of being left out, we use it as a strength. Dreams from Gin is flexible and it has allowed us to covertly play what would be considered "scene shows." We are angry enough to play with "hardcore" bands, fun enough to play with the punk bands and our pedal boards are large enough to play with the indie bands. It has allowed us to form a lot of relationships with a lot of different types of bands." Tyson Prince, guitarist/vocalist, and Travis Hafner, drummer, formed the band in October 2008 during college, but before they could start a band, they needed to find a practice space. The band found a legendary practice space, one that could go down in history as the coolest makeshift space. <br />
"We ended up renting a large abandoned gas station as a practice space. It was a pretty interesting time, we would have these incredible parties with dozens of musicians and spectators, passing around gear. It was a really creative place, we had art drawings on the wall and used the special of the wipe board to write lyrics. Soon enough, our bassist extrodonaire Christian came by and Dreams from Gin was born." Unfortunately, the band's space wouldn't last forever and after both landlords died, the gas station was taken by the bank and the band had to move on. Since forming, the band has replaced Travis with Nick Manka on the drums.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MPCaRapIa8/TrNVDaKJjbI/AAAAAAAAAS8/005xHydKJa8/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MPCaRapIa8/TrNVDaKJjbI/AAAAAAAAAS8/005xHydKJa8/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band has many influences and they feel that it reflects in their music. The band's tastes are extensive and range from grunge, Mclusky, Nirvana, Modest Mouse, to Folk, Fleet Foxes and Two Gallants, to Instrumental, Explosions in the Sky and Russian Circles, to Pop, Hooverphonic and Red Hot Chili Peppers." The band describes their music as "cynical, sometimes angry depressed, sometimes maybe even happy but mostly tongue in cheek." <br />
"I think we represent the duality and hypocritical nature of the human experience. For better or worse we don't stick to a specific formula or genre. As far as a message, some songs have a specific meaning and others just convey an emotion or feeling, most of the time it's both. Occasionally, a chorus to a song is completely unrelated to the verse. I think it's like a little snippet of life, it doesn't always come at you in a neat little package with a easy translated message. Sometimes your witnessing or contemplating something and then another issue or event comes up in the blink of an eye. Sometimes you get a Non-sequitur." Says Tyson.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANKJc2ydXAk/TrNVEZBWCHI/AAAAAAAAATE/t3Ee83MLGIo/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANKJc2ydXAk/TrNVEZBWCHI/AAAAAAAAATE/t3Ee83MLGIo/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Recently, the band released a "hits" compilation album titled Rabbits Run in Prides. "It is free on <a href="http://www.dreamsfromgin.com/" target="_blank">our website</a> and is a great starter to anyone interested in Dreams from Gin. I think it represents our best material and the diversity of our material. Songs range from the energetic and clever "Typewriter", the thoughtful and lyrical "Stoic" to the slightly strange anthem that is "Stereo Fire!" It also includes our take on a pop hit "Mad about you." The album's a strange beast, a duck billed platypus, weird to experience at first. Soon though, your addicted to the strange delicacy, and you just can't get it out of your head."<br />
The band is currently on a short hiatus, taking time off to work on an album's worth of new material. "We have about half a dozen songs written now. The song writing process has been a lot of fun and the chemistry is right. We all tend to be jokesters, laid back and little cynical, so the songs come together very easily. I intend this album to have a slightly bigger budget than in the past, which means we can finally fit in everything we want. We will most likely start performing again in December. Also, we really want to push Dreams from Gin to be involved in more media projects, video games, online movies, etc. I think our music is perfect for it; we have a diverse catalog of songs and generally let anyone use our music for free. The internet has given us a chance to reach fans all over the country (and world). I really enjoy all of the fan mail or tributes we receive. If we managed to scrounge enough funds we'd love to do a cross-country tour. You never know what's in the card, we've come a long way from our humble beginnings in an abandoned gas station."JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Rochester, NY, USA43.16103 -77.610921943.0683715 -77.768850399999991 43.253688499999996 -77.4529934tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-85789392987290080982011-11-03T12:03:00.000-05:002011-11-03T13:21:25.598-05:00We Are Tokyo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7lV6OgVFMnE/TrLIxeGADUI/AAAAAAAAASU/rA7NmZajoDg/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7lV6OgVFMnE/TrLIxeGADUI/AAAAAAAAASU/rA7NmZajoDg/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Inspired by the imagery of the late night cityscapes of Tokyo and the way the city just seems to be pushing it's boundaries, electro-pop duo <a href="http://wearetokyoofficial.com/" target="_blank">We Are Tokyo</a> incorporated the city into their name. "(The name) was memorable, flowed well when spoken and looked good written so it was a keeper." Says the Alex Fox, band vocalist, who also plays numerous instruments for the band, including synthesizer, bass, and guitar.<br />
Tom Wheeler, who plays drums and sings back-up vocals, praises the duo's local music scene in Bristol. "Bristol has always had a great music scene and we are glad to be associate with the city as it is the home of many big name artists. We always love playing in Bristol and get a good vibe every time! So we like to keep involved in the Bristol scene and culture."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDRkiXAJRY4/TrLIx-xG6aI/AAAAAAAAASc/iKi1m_eSqco/s1600/Photo002.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDRkiXAJRY4/TrLIx-xG6aI/AAAAAAAAASc/iKi1m_eSqco/s1600/Photo002.png" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Simon P Cross)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the beginning, We Are Tokyo was just Alex in his bedroom creating music. He was able to get one of his songs played on BBC Radio Bristol Introducing where Tom heard the song. "I instantly felt a connection to the sound and what Alex was trying to achieve, so i got in touch with him via Myspace and went for an audition which was very successful and a few weeks later was in the studio being part of the making of our first EP 'Bright Lights'." Recalls Tom.<br />
Since the band's 2009 EP, Bright Lights, the band has released several singles. The band's brand of electronicore fuses organic elements such as guitar and live drums with synths and samples to create their synth-focused electro-pop sound. The band takes influence from many electronic artists as well as artists like The Killers, Bloc Party, Depeche Mode, and David Bowie.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WE98NsyM9_Q/TrLIyPMnwyI/AAAAAAAAASk/1cP4b32zZgI/s1600/Photo003.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WE98NsyM9_Q/TrLIyPMnwyI/AAAAAAAAASk/1cP4b32zZgI/s1600/Photo003.png" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Simon P Cross)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's easy to see that the band has garnered attention with their unique electronic rock fusion, as the band has been feature on several different media outlets. They have been featured as one of Radio 1's Best bands in Bristol, music blog site It's All Indie's Best New Act of 2010, and were semi-finalists in a contest held by Two Jacks In A Hole, an American poker podcast which got the band some exposure overseas.<br />
The band's latest single 'Magnetic', a synth and vocal driven song about the struggle of long distance relationships, was released along with a music video (<a href="http://magnetic.wearetokyoofficial.com/" target="_blank">here</a>). So what's next for the band? "We plan to release more singles onto some independent labels and work our way to making a signed album, we have a lot of material in the pipeline which we are excited to get out to the public!" Says the band. Be sure to follow the band's updates on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/wearetokyo" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/WeAreTokyo" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Bristol, City of Bristol, UK51.4553129 -2.591902351.3761589 -2.7498308000000002 51.534466900000005 -2.4339738tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-81358753853633125882011-11-02T12:02:00.000-05:002011-11-02T12:02:19.683-05:00The Eversea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CY9-9W_Do6Y/TrF3EEC-3nI/AAAAAAAAAR8/vNCNItCA_7I/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CY9-9W_Do6Y/TrF3EEC-3nI/AAAAAAAAAR8/vNCNItCA_7I/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
If you sift through the hardcore and pop-punk bands that make up the music in Boston, MA, you'll find indie rock band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/everseamusic" target="_blank">The Eversea</a>. The band came together in October 2010, just over a year ago, and have since released several singles, have been on the radio and are currently working on a 5-song EP which they hope to release in spring.<br />
The scene in Boston, again, is filled with all kinds of hardcore and pop-punk bands, making it difficult for bands of a different genre to get a foothold in the scene. "We try to play any show we can get and keep ourselves out in the scene with new material every time." Says the band.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KiHOBziR3yc/TrF3ETzrCcI/AAAAAAAAASE/NfFf1zq7xBs/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KiHOBziR3yc/TrF3ETzrCcI/AAAAAAAAASE/NfFf1zq7xBs/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The 3-piece came together fairly easily, but after some trouble they decided to part ways with their original vocalist. Clay Taranto (lead guitar) and Aron Blye (drums) brought Joe Cook on board after seeing him perform at an open mic night at Bridgewater College, completing the band line-up.<br />
Each member of the band has different music taste, but collectively, the band is influenced by bands like Pearl Jam, The Goo Goo Dolls, and Foo Fighters. Using these influences, the band creates their indie alternative rock. "We try to take a little bit from every band we listen to and mix them into the songs we make. We try to have a distinct sound. Something you don’t hear too much from bands now a days."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZEwxtB4VYY/TrF3Ej7nTBI/AAAAAAAAASM/uvBe3opwDfs/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZEwxtB4VYY/TrF3Ej7nTBI/AAAAAAAAASM/uvBe3opwDfs/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
When the band plays a show, they try to keep it high energy. "We try to get the crowd involved, we really feed off the crowd and if they're having a good time, it really effects us positively on stage." The band has released several singles that they perform at their shows, but the band is currently working on their 5-song EP.<br />
You can keep your eyes peeled for the band's EP this spring. "We’ve been playing on a few radio stations and have been writing a lot, just trying to get the name out there and working on our EP!"JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com6Boston, MA, USA42.3584308 -71.059773242.170698800000004 -71.375630199999989 42.5461628 -70.7439162tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-21370451606952911602011-11-01T12:29:00.001-05:002011-11-01T12:29:39.148-05:00A Piece Of The Action<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--dTWRwJ62qg/TrApFbc5irI/AAAAAAAAARc/eCZBFWbfJDA/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--dTWRwJ62qg/TrApFbc5irI/AAAAAAAAARc/eCZBFWbfJDA/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In the overwhelming music scene found in the Los Angeles/Hollywood area, you'll find a band at every corner. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/APOTABAND">A Piece Of The Action</a> is one of those bands. The metal band officailly formed in late 2009 after about a year's worth of jam sessions with different hopefuls. <br />
The oversaturated music scene in Los Angeles is where the band spends a lot of their time playing shows and practicing. When the band isn't fine-tuning their own skills, they're out supporting their favorite local bands. "We also do our best to help the scene grow into the monster it deserves to be by sharing events, cross promoting, and helping with member searches."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dt25kL9NjOc/TrApFlOKaNI/AAAAAAAAARk/EreH--hvuoc/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dt25kL9NjOc/TrApFlOKaNI/AAAAAAAAARk/EreH--hvuoc/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Johnny Hirth)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since the band's first line-up in December 2009, the band has made several member changes due to members quitting for different reasons. It wasn't until Alfred Jasso (drums) joined the band in September 2011 that the latest line-up was complete. The current line-up consists of founding members, Adam Morales (vocals), Steve Castellanos (guitar), and the addition of Andy Olson (guitar) in September 2010, Dale Rosales (bass) in June 2011, and Alfred.<br />
In order to create the band's sound, which has been described as party metal/heavy metal, takes influence from bands like Lamb Of God, Deftones, Killswitch Engage, Between the Buried and Me, and Everytime I Die. Apart from the musical influences, the band takes from life experiences. "If there was a way to describe our sound it would be kinda like describing a feeling. When you hear our music its like energy rushing through your body. One song might make you want to kick someone in the throat, while another will help you get through a rough time in your life. If you could name a theme for our music it would be OUR LIFE translated into notes and rhythms."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_txN75rCG0/TrApFxWm1wI/AAAAAAAAARs/T8PFZk9_gcc/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S_txN75rCG0/TrApFxWm1wI/AAAAAAAAARs/T8PFZk9_gcc/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Johnny Hirth)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Skinny Magazine's Top 100 festival is a three day event that consists of several bands playing 9 stages located in one massive venue. "The first day was at The Queen Mary in Long Beach CA. Three floors of pure musical mayhem. We played the main stage and it was awesome. The crowd went crazy for us." The band was able to play the main stage on 2 of the 3 days, missing the 3rd day due to their tour schedule.<br />
The band's self-titled EP was officially released March 2010 and was made available worldwide in September. "It was a great experience to write it and an even greater experience to play for people. The sound of it could be described as symphonic metal." Now, the band is working on their follow-up EP, the currently untitled EP is pushing for an early January 2012 release date. "Our upcoming EP can be described as powerful, moving, angry, and life changing. Picture what the soundtack would be to the greatest battle in history and you'll have our new ep. What separates it from the last ep is its ability to show our growth as a band as well as our overall sound. Even though its heavier and more melodic then the last cd, you can still tell that its APOTA."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zBToaqqJJPw/TrApGNSvt4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/jtZYM4oCWMg/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zBToaqqJJPw/TrApGNSvt4I/AAAAAAAAAR0/jtZYM4oCWMg/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Of course, the band will be working on new music and their upcoming EP, but what else does this over-the-top metal band have in store for us? "There are some shows that we will be playing before Christmas. We have a bunch of things in the works such as the upcoming cd, music video, new photos, and some new endorsements. We are also working on some tour dates for 2012 where we will be hitting states we havent been to yet. And if everything works out financially, we will be heading to Finland to do a 20 date tour with our good friends Neglected Fear. While all these things are in the works/going on, we are hoping to reach a new level in the music world that no other band has."JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Los Angeles, CA, USA34.0522342 -118.243684933.6312602 -118.87539890000001 34.4732082 -117.6119709tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-87515842986137249282011-10-27T12:35:00.000-05:002011-10-27T12:35:28.266-05:00Black End Coda<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PQUabmmQ674/TqmVO32acsI/AAAAAAAAAOc/2x3obq6dODY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PQUabmmQ674/TqmVO32acsI/AAAAAAAAAOc/2x3obq6dODY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: K Jones Photo Project)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The world is a never ending cycle of darkness and death. At least, that's what Downey, CA metalcore band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/blackendcoda">Black End Coda</a> believes. This is represented in not only the band's name, but in the band's music as well. In Downey, there isn't much of a metal scene, so the band has taken to playing surrounding areas, such as Southgate, Huntington Park, and Compton.<br />
In October 2010, Brian De La Torre (guitar/vocals) was attending Whittier College and wanted to participate in an open mic night held on the campus. Brian asked his friend Devin Keogh to play bass for the performance and Devin agreed, also inviting Brian to play with his band some weekend. After playing together, they decided to make it a permanent set-up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fyo-sWvaRwM/TqmVPNcLO8I/AAAAAAAAAOk/Ffpg5qNZnYc/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fyo-sWvaRwM/TqmVPNcLO8I/AAAAAAAAAOk/Ffpg5qNZnYc/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Dbrandphoto)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The band showcases a rough, gritty form of metalcore, drawing influence from metal and hardcore bands alike. Among their influences are bands like Lamb of God, As I Lay Dying, Motionless in White and Miss May I. The band describes their sound as dark and heavy. Their performances are visual and like most bands, they like to give it their all.<br />
"We have done many types of shows, e.g. bars, lounges, night clubs, venues, multiple genre, etc. but we always try to put on the best show possible. We like to be as visual as we are musical, so we put a lot of movements and energy into our performances."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eb1yyn6UOrY/TqmVPRG1JhI/AAAAAAAAAOo/sU2yAPsDJ_I/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eb1yyn6UOrY/TqmVPRG1JhI/AAAAAAAAAOo/sU2yAPsDJ_I/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Dbrandphoto)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The band recently started work on their debut EP, Dead Walk. The EP will consist of 5-6 tracks and is still in it's early stages. The first track is nearly complete and the band is working on the guitar tracks for the next song. They hope to release the EP early in the New Year and say the EP will be released by the end of January at the very latest.<br />
Their main focus is currently on getting the EP done, but the band will continue to play shows around Hollywood and will also be working on album art as well as art for merchandise, such as t-shirts. Be sure to keep an eye out for Dead Walk and keep up-to-date with band news through their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/blackendcoda">Facebook</a>.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com13Downey, CA, USA33.9400143 -118.132568833.8873213 -118.2115328 33.9927073 -118.0536048tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-63500927952157217732011-10-26T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-26T12:00:01.783-05:00The Dirty Hearts Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HiHkfoqykRQ/Tqg3J8uNmsI/AAAAAAAAAN8/i4r_RSyLOJU/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HiHkfoqykRQ/Tqg3J8uNmsI/AAAAAAAAAN8/i4r_RSyLOJU/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In January 2011, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thedirtyheartsclub">The Dirty Hearts Club</a>, an indie rock band from Manchester, UK formed from the remains of their previous project, The Dirty Hands. 3 of the remaining members joined up and initially planned to keep the name before they found out it was taken by an already signed band in London. "we stumbled across the idea to call ourselves 'The Dirty Hearts' and the 'Club' part felt as though it gave us our own individual identity, like we were beginning an exclusive club that people could be part of." Says the band.<br />
"Manchester has been an important city in England’s musical heritage spawning internationally recognized and respected bands and musical figures that has defined musical culture and genre, such as bands like Joy Division, The Fall, The Buzzcocks, The Stone Roses, Happy Monday’s, Oasis, and Elbow. The city’s musical heritage has spawned a vibrant and eclectic ongoing scene. We (the band) all live just outside of the city so as well as getting involved in the music scene there we also play and have put on gigs in smaller suburban towns."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o2N1IWSbiCA/Tqg3KJKShMI/AAAAAAAAAOE/PFIfgvwfLOk/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o2N1IWSbiCA/Tqg3KJKShMI/AAAAAAAAAOE/PFIfgvwfLOk/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The Dirty Hands split in November 2010 and in December, Danny Solazzo (vocals) met with Chas Dewhurst (lead guitar/vocals) whom he met behind the bar in a local pub. Chas and Danny decided to collaborate on some music and from there, they contacted Patt Jenkinson (bass/vocals) and Ste Mills (drums), both formally from The Dirty Hands along with Danny, about forming a band. Danny turned to his old childhood friend, Matt White to play rhythym guitar for the band.<br />
"What brings us together is that we are all passionate about music and the world around us, our influences vary but the bottom line is that we all have a need to play music and be creative and a need to say how we feel about what we see going on around us. We live in times of unrest whether its political/financial and we feel like we must speak out about the injustices we see day to day, although some of our songs are just about being young, having a good time and enjoying the positives in life."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLSNId4nMRY/Tqg3KriyCAI/AAAAAAAAAOM/OlcNzwsSIHA/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLSNId4nMRY/Tqg3KriyCAI/AAAAAAAAAOM/OlcNzwsSIHA/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band is influenced by all sorts of things, from politics to art, and the band's musical influences range from Metallica to The Manic Street Preachers. Using these many influences, the band has shaped their sound into a "fusion of melodic indie rock" and "raw energy of punk and 60’s garage" with "dark undertones of post-punk and a huge serving of balls out rock and roll."<br />
"Our live performances have been described as frantic, energetic and sometimes angry or confrontational. We play with our hearts on our sleeves and lose ourselves in the live show and music. We are passionate musicians and this comes through on stage, we try to play mindful of the past DIY punk scenes were young people frustrated with their lives or what they saw going on around them got up on stage and expressed that pent up frustration through their music. Our shows are often loud, beer gets spilled and things get broken but we love what we do and we love doing it which does come across to the audience."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jia5utr-OlA/Tqg3KkK-ScI/AAAAAAAAAOU/bTS-w5Hwmr0/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jia5utr-OlA/Tqg3KkK-ScI/AAAAAAAAAOU/bTS-w5Hwmr0/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
So what's next for this fresh new band? "We have various up coming gigs across the North West UK, Hitting some great venues with a bunch of new songs we’ve worked on over the summer, were currently trying to play as much as we can across the uk in order to spread the word and and build our fan base and gain some management to take us to the next level. We’ll be hoping to get back in the studio in the New Year and get some new tracks worked on and perhaps go for a single release towards next summer. 2012 will be a big year for us."JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Manchester, UK53.4807125 -2.234376553.405119000000006 -2.3923050000000003 53.556306 -2.076448tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-49453506079819925162011-10-25T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-25T12:00:06.889-05:00The Siren's Allure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnYLPdnF624/Tqa_EsGSvbI/AAAAAAAAANs/QLz7FFi-EUc/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JnYLPdnF624/Tqa_EsGSvbI/AAAAAAAAANs/QLz7FFi-EUc/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In Greek mythology, the sirens were seductresses who lured sailors with their enchanting music and voices to shipwreck on the rocky coast of their island. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Sirens-Allure/277305655613675">The Siren's Allure</a>, a trancecore band from Mountain Home, Arkansas and used these mythical creatures as a metaphor. "It’s mainly about how the world tries to lure all of us in with its deception and deceit." Says the band.<br />
The two members of the band, Ocean Abernathy and Tyler Haile formed the band in mid-2011. The duo combines metal, electronica, dubstep, and techno to create their trancecore sound and have found it difficult to fit in with the town's post-hardcore music scene, making it hard for the band to play shows in the area.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFKVdJHLsFs/Tqa_Ezqs9ZI/AAAAAAAAAN0/yjEZdNxh20U/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FFKVdJHLsFs/Tqa_Ezqs9ZI/AAAAAAAAAN0/yjEZdNxh20U/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The two have been friends for several years and have been a part of several bands together. With several different influences from bands like The Browning, Sybreed, Sky Eats Airplane, and even dubstep artist, Skrillex. The band incorporates many elements from metal and electronica in their music and often times incorporates the siren folklore in their music and lyrics.<br />
The band is currently working on their upcoming EP, and is hoping for a December release date. "It’s going to blow minds." Says the band. "It is very different from other bands, and each song tells its own story. We’re currently done recording and mixing it and are just working on getting it promoted and getting the art work finished." Although the band is still in it's early stages, the band hopes to complete their line-up and move into a bigger music scene in hopes of finding an audience open to new sounds.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com5Mountain Home, AR 72653, USA36.3353449 -92.385159336.284180400000004 -92.4641233 36.3865094 -92.3061953tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-20438443097082578222011-10-24T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-24T12:00:03.423-05:00The Handshake Affair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MdhCPiDH-ak/TqWAwcDk00I/AAAAAAAAANU/ZElt5eMOUE4/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MdhCPiDH-ak/TqWAwcDk00I/AAAAAAAAANU/ZElt5eMOUE4/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
German rock band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheHandshakeAffair">The Handshake Affair</a> couldn't be happier with their local music scene. The band came together in early 2007 in Dessau located in eastern Germany. "Dessau is a small city in eastern Germany and we think we're really lucky to have such an amazing local music scene. There are lots of cool shows taking place all the time." Says the band.<br />
Originally, the band started as basement recordings started by the band vocalist, Eric. With many friends in the music scene playing in bands, he spent a great deal of time watching his friends rehearse and it wasn't long before he brought together some of his best friends to form the band. The band has been playing shows and shuffling around their line-up for the last few years and are ready to tour the UK in December.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UrB9bXiZ-0o/TqWAwh8eBjI/AAAAAAAAANc/IRMkAIARbVA/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UrB9bXiZ-0o/TqWAwh8eBjI/AAAAAAAAANc/IRMkAIARbVA/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: DoomDesign.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Collectively, the band is a fan of all kinds of music in several genres from classical to electronica, but it's bands like Incubus, Deftones, and Blink-182 that inspired the band to create. "We try to play modern rock music that combines different elements of the genre, such as metal riffs, melodic vocals, ambient vocals oand even choir vocals. I think one of the best things of writing your own music is the freedom to choose which elements to incorporate into your sound."<br />
One of the band's big breaks came in 2007, when the band played The Taste of Chaos in Munich and was invited back to play the tour the following year in Hamburg. "It was one of the best experiences we've ever had. It was crazy to be a part of such a huge tour, even though it was only for a short time. These shows blew our minds. The size of venues and the crowds were unreal, you couldn't identify a single face in the crowd. When we were done playing our sets we literally felt as if we were up on cloud nine."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7tLoj3jeHx0/TqWAxMOBmtI/AAAAAAAAANk/3AszPH3YZUs/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7tLoj3jeHx0/TqWAxMOBmtI/AAAAAAAAANk/3AszPH3YZUs/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: DoomDesign.com)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Boldly, the band decided to fly across the ocean to record their debut album in the land of the free. "We decided to leave our country and fly over to the US to record it there. Personally, it was the best decision we could have made musically. We worked together with Drew Fulk, whose work everyone should check out. He made us sound the way we wanted to sound on the record. We can relate to the bands in the US music scene, and we wanted to find someone that could help us sound similar, and we're super happy how this record turned out. And it just was a great trip to a country we've never been to before."<br />
After playing huge shows in Europe alongside many famous bands and flying to the US to cut their record, what's next on the list for this German rockstars? "We're going to the UK in december for a tour with 2 other great bands and early next year we'll announce more tours in order to support our debut album. We just wanna play as much as we can to get our name out there."JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com3Dessau-Roßlau, Germany51.8388779 12.245159151.6819054 11.929302100000001 51.9958504 12.5610161tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-18411214688803992662011-10-20T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-20T12:00:06.408-05:00Life After Liftoff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-K6Eiaw9Zk/Tp-RjhQMCII/AAAAAAAAAMw/5q_gmtfiONE/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-K6Eiaw9Zk/Tp-RjhQMCII/AAAAAAAAAMw/5q_gmtfiONE/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Pop-punk band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LifeAfterLiftoff">Life After Liftoff</a>'s name came to vocalist/guitarist, Lee Weiss in the form of a dream. "I usually keep a notepad by my bed for lyrics and one night the name came to me. I spent the next day figuring out what "Life After Liftoff" was going to be." Says Weiss. Band bassist and back-up vocalist, Jason Sigritz adds,"Even though Lee originally came up with the band name, I think it has taken on a meaning of its own for the rest of us. I personally think of it, as simply being a statement from someone that has made it through something traumatic in their lives only to discover that there is infinitely more out there."<br />
The music scene in Dayton, Ohio is home to the band and is filled with indie, metal, and hardcore bands. "We are definitely the odd ones in the area. Though I think that is refreshing to people in the area and that is part of why we have started to gain a foothold here. I would say we are very active in the local music scene, participating in festivals, contests and playing a local show at least once or twice a month." Says Sigritz. "We like to bring everyone together and really feed off the energy of great bands. We also like to incorporate belly dancing and cirque du soleil into our shows Jason and I are really flexible." Says Weiss.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dLvx-ddIsZA/Tp-RkH2e03I/AAAAAAAAAM4/IfqCdzcBtqI/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dLvx-ddIsZA/Tp-RkH2e03I/AAAAAAAAAM4/IfqCdzcBtqI/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
After Weiss thought up the band, he still had to form it into a real-life functioning band capable of realizing his vision. In late 2008, he posted up a flyer in the creative arts center of his college, Wright State University. Ryan Chatterton (guitar/back-up vocals/keyboard) answered to the flyer and brought along his friend, Dan Malloy on bass. Dan soon switched to drums after their original drummer quit and so the band brought in Jason on bass.<br />
The band has strong influences in pop-punk bands like Blink 182 and new Found Glory. "I would say the biggest influences to the bands are the members. You can hear what we are all inspired by come through in the music; the overall band sound can be derived from all the different bands we enjoy." Says Sigritz. The band mixes pop-punk, pop-rock, and arena rock to create their poppy, energetic sound. "Our message is positive and encouraging, and like most other pop/rock bands, we sing songs about love and relationships." Says Malloy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aUOJYiJamRc/Tp-RkTWq-jI/AAAAAAAAANA/y6vQlwTTJyg/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aUOJYiJamRc/Tp-RkTWq-jI/AAAAAAAAANA/y6vQlwTTJyg/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band was able to play the Cincinnati date of the 2011 Van's Warped Tour alongside several national acts, including A Day to Remember, Relient K, Jack's Mannequin and many more. "It was a childhood dream come true! I have seen so many of my favorite bands play Warped that it was so surreal knowing our band was fortunate enough to be able to play alongside those bands and people really got into us!" Says Weiss. "It was incredible to be alongside a lot of the bands we grew up idolizing and imitating. I know it was a huge thrill to get to be backstage or on stage with bands like Relient K, Jack's Mannequin and so many others. It was also ridiculously hot that day, and I'm pretty sure most of us almost passed out from heat exhaustion." Added Malloy.<br />
On May 6th, 2011, the band released their EP, Memory of You, which was produced by Tyler Smith. "The EP is actually a small part of our final record; the idea was just to create great songs. I feel the EP is really upbeat and talks about the one thing that every human needs as a basic necessity which is Love, the link to human interaction and growth. Tyler Smith has become a really close friend of mine he is such an amazing songwriter/producer and just over all AMAZING person! Growing up in the Dayton music scene together and then coming together like we did was beyond anything I could have dreamt years ago." Says Weiss. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p9J06ZnIm78/Tp-Rk_bEvzI/AAAAAAAAANI/jWiiS11uJh0/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p9J06ZnIm78/Tp-Rk_bEvzI/AAAAAAAAANI/jWiiS11uJh0/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Buckeye Music Magazine)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the band's next release, they hope to directly continue the story and themes from the first EP. "We're working with Tyler again, and branching out into new areas of our bands sound. I think with the success we've seen from the “Memory of You” EP, we know we have to really step up to take our second release to the next level." Says Malloy. The band will be releasing the new EP in the winter of 2012.<br />
So what's next for the band? The band will be doing lots of touring and hope to film a music videos. "We've got a lot of bigger shows and great opportunities coming up between now and 2012. We've got shows in New York, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Kentucky planned for October through December, including shows with, Yellowcard and Every Avenue! From the new year on you should expect to see us on the road more, and working our way up to being the first band on the moon." Says Malloy. Be sure to like the band on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LifeAfterLiftoff">Facebook</a> for tour updates and more!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Dayton, OH, USA39.7589478 -84.191606939.661295800000005 -84.3495354 39.8565998 -84.0336784tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-90799661636582656152011-10-19T13:45:00.001-05:002011-10-19T13:45:37.244-05:00A Tragedy At Hand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0NRGsMYdig/Tp8aFqgnT0I/AAAAAAAAAMY/yfLzql0SSyo/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0NRGsMYdig/Tp8aFqgnT0I/AAAAAAAAAMY/yfLzql0SSyo/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Hardcore band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/atahofficial">A Tragedy At Hand</a>, comes from the small town of Irving, Texas, just outside of Dallas. The band's name embodies an interesting, yet dark view of life and how many people are forced to live a life of mediocrecy. According to the band, the tragedy at hand is the average person being convinced that a normal 9-to-5 job is the best they can do. "People get lost and caught up in things that blind them to what life can really hold. The world is at each and every one of our finger tips, but little think or go beyond their little glass box and are left staring at what they want and can’t have." Explains the band.<br />
Irving lacks a music scene, but luckily for the band, they are very near Dallas, which has a fairly healthy scene with many shows and music festivals all yearround. "Irving is the pimple to the face of Dallas, if you will. There is a GREAT music scene in Dallas and we do many big festivals throughout the year!"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prxQgmESzaM/Tp8aGEexofI/AAAAAAAAAMc/LG22TnQ04BI/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-prxQgmESzaM/Tp8aGEexofI/AAAAAAAAAMc/LG22TnQ04BI/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Many of the band members have known each other since high school, sharing the stage and even playing together in different bands since they were about 15 years old. In March of 2008, they formed the band together and the band would become A Tragedy At Hand.<br />
The band has many musical influences like bands such as Underoath, The Devil Wears Prada, In Flames, Dark Tranquility, and As I Lay Dying. Like many other metal/hardcore bands, the band incorporates many of the trademark elements of the genre, such as screaming and hardcore breakdowns. But unlike other bands, the band feels that although they have similar elements to these bands, they assure everyone that they write actual music.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8gAUyUj0W0/Tp8aGfGODOI/AAAAAAAAAMk/oHczNRJvXHw/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_8gAUyUj0W0/Tp8aGfGODOI/AAAAAAAAAMk/oHczNRJvXHw/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In the last few years, the band has played lucky enough to play several big music festivals in the Dallas area such as SouthBySoWhat 2010 with over 3,000 in attendance as well as Firefest 2011 with over 1,500 people. <br />
Playing these big festivals have given the band an opportunity to play along big bands and even major influences like with big signed bands like A Day To Remember, Underoath, The Devil Wears Prada, and Senses Fail. "It's cool being able to see what these bands are really like as people. It's also very cool to be able to say you've played with your favorite bands!"<br />
The band will be releasing a new single in early November and hopes to release a full-length album early on in 2012. They hope to get the attention of booking agents and record labels. Be sure to check them out on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/atahofficial">Facebook</a>!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Irving, TX, USA32.8140177 -96.948894532.7072582 -97.106822999999991 32.9207772 -96.790966tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-64639455318461644332011-10-18T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-18T18:46:53.124-05:00Streets Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1k8Y-gkjbeQ/Tpt4s_pUyVI/AAAAAAAAAMA/8bwJNq9kKOY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1k8Y-gkjbeQ/Tpt4s_pUyVI/AAAAAAAAAMA/8bwJNq9kKOY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In Bedford, NH, you'll find optimistic alternative indie rock band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Streets-Ahead/102670273133057">Streets Ahead</a>, which came together in October 2010. The band decided on their name because it implies looking forward towards the future and the band likes to keep an optimistic view. <br />
Bedford recently built a high school in town and the band played the high school's Battle of the Bands. "It's all really new and traditions are kind of in the works. We did play a show at our school's student run lock-in and also the poetry night, so I guess we are pretty involved when people need a band for a school function. Aside from that though, most of our shows have been at least 20 minutes away from home."<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"> Cara Bernard (vocals) and Miranda Sealander (drums) were in a rock cover band together, which was made up of trumpet players from the school's marching band. It wasn't until they found guitarist, Matt Cambria and bassist, Dylan Kiely that the band branched away from the cover band and started writing original music as Streets Ahead.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T6mhKL7yNnU/Tpt4te9umPI/AAAAAAAAAMI/Xg9l1FOAJK8/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T6mhKL7yNnU/Tpt4te9umPI/AAAAAAAAAMI/Xg9l1FOAJK8/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Rene Morrison)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Each of the members have different influences from Paramore to Radiohead and Muse to Johnny Foreinger. With such broad influences, the band naturally hass a broad sound. The band writes with emotions and write music based on how they feel, not how they want to sound. <br />
When it comes to playing shows, the band puts on an energetic set. They enjoy jumping around on stage and just having a fun performance. " We try to keep an open invitation for the audience to join in since that is generally why people go to concerts, to have fun."<br />
The band released the Open Doors On Sinking Ships EP in early March 2011, and it was the band's first recording. "it was all kind of a bit of a learning experience. At the time we recorded it, we were still growing as a band and still trying to find our sound. The songs all kind of have a theme of reflecting on past mistakes and learning from them and using them to build a brighter future. The overall sound is a bit more mellow than our current set list."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e3bbc6ccfmA/Tpt4trQCPmI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/6AsIhAtJj3E/s1600/Photo03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e3bbc6ccfmA/Tpt4trQCPmI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/6AsIhAtJj3E/s1600/Photo03.jpg" width="350" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Photo: Rene Morrison)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Currently, the band is working on their next ep. "We have grown a lot as a band since our last EP and improved our musical abilities. Me and My Affections has a darker, yet more energetic sound. We are all really happy with the outcome and feel that it represents what you'll hear from our band much better than our last EP." <br />
With all the band members away at college, the band is writing music seperately. Once the band is on break, they will try to squeeze in as many shows as they can. Be sure to check out the band on Facebook for EP updates and more!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Bedford, NH, USA42.94639 -71.5163942.899898 -71.595354 42.992882 -71.437426tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-61232879838014938162011-10-17T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-17T16:52:17.365-05:00Perils Rise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9WAPc7Zk9JU/TptD6HY6i6I/AAAAAAAAALo/o1MPR-j0IK0/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9WAPc7Zk9JU/TptD6HY6i6I/AAAAAAAAALo/o1MPR-j0IK0/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/perilsrisemusic">Perils Rise</a> is a metalcore band out of the small town of Dover Plains, NY. The band formed in August 2010 and took their name from a Devils Wear Prada song lyric. "We chose the name because it reflected what we were going through with the band at the time. By standard definition, peril is a danger spawned by a specific action. We've all taken risks an encountered problems by choosing to put all of ourselves into our music. It seemed fitting." Says the band.<br />
Unfortunately, Dover Plains is not large enough to have it's own music scene, but the community does give the band lots of support. The band drives nearby to Poughkeepsie and plays shows through Killer Cool Entertainment. "The scene in Poughkeepsie is awesome, people actually care about their local bands. We're a new band around there, but we're quickly becoming part of the family." Says the band.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-loLh9tBSgx8/TptD58KbT8I/AAAAAAAAALg/h6r0EH6oXqo/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-loLh9tBSgx8/TptD58KbT8I/AAAAAAAAALg/h6r0EH6oXqo/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band started in early August without a guitarist, but soon recruited Travis Tompkins after his band broke up. Travis wasn't very interested in the music the rest of the band wanted to make, but brought along his friend Kyle. For a while, it wasn't clear if Travis and Kyle were in the band or not, but soon it became apparent that they were there to stay.<br />
The members of the band have a diverse music taste and the band itself tries to make music that sounds good. Some influential bands include The Devil Wears Prada, August Burns Red, and Every Time I Die. The group describes their music as metalcore with surprises. "We mix it up a lot from song to song. From a lyrical standpoint, our current release has a very specific theme. It follows the struggle of life and how it is never acceptable to give up. Never give in, keep following your dreams."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTKKxuojS40/TptD6owdIOI/AAAAAAAAALw/kUEjG4-C1D4/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QTKKxuojS40/TptD6owdIOI/AAAAAAAAALw/kUEjG4-C1D4/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
On August 22, 2011, the band released their EP Persevere, Persevere. The EP contained 5 tracks that the band had written over the course of a year. "the sound of the EP changes from song to song. It's pretty crazy. I touched base on the lyrical meaning of the album, but to really understand you would have to read the lyrics of each song. It's a journey in every sense of the word. All in all, we couldn't be more proud with how everything came out."<br />
Currently, the band is working on writing their debut full-length album. "Things have been a bit busy for us with a few important shows coming up, but it's going pretty well so far. We have some rough ideas that you are certainly going to like, and you'll be hearing some things you wouldn't expect from us. At the moment, we're looking to release a single in the next few months."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6tf1YXzJQbE/TptD6_UVtlI/AAAAAAAAAL4/kisDtSiIeC4/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6tf1YXzJQbE/TptD6_UVtlI/AAAAAAAAAL4/kisDtSiIeC4/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Recently, the band's single,"Let's Have A Serious Conversation" reached #1 on the Purevolume metalcore chart. "[It was] mind blowing and such an honor. We did not expect such a huge reaction from the single. And to continually get back to the top with each release was equally as mind blowing every time. Our fans are the absolute best."<br />
The band will continue playing several local shows while they focus on writing the album. "Expect some lineup changes around December due to Travis' unfortunate departure for the Navy. And if all goes according to plan, expect to see us touring to a city near you starting Summer 2012!"JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Dover Plains, NY 12522, USA41.7412051 -73.576515141.7293571 -73.596256099999991 41.7530531 -73.5567741tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-32371113029437951902011-10-14T13:07:00.001-05:002011-10-14T13:07:52.249-05:00Curses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7vJf1vaQ3co/Tph5kz5o6gI/AAAAAAAAALI/F_9IqjPpghg/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7vJf1vaQ3co/Tph5kz5o6gI/AAAAAAAAALI/F_9IqjPpghg/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
After several false starts and blunders, post-hardcore band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Curses/132219163519649">Curses</a> were fed up and decided their musical ventures were cursed, hence the name. The band feels the name is also fitting because they believe that everyone has a curse. "Everyone has their cross to carry, their struggles, and things holding them back but, like us, you've gotta overcome it." Says the band. "We want to help people believe in themselves. These kinds of attitudes are what turn heads around, attract attention and get everyone speaking."<br />
This Coachella Valley band has been dormant for about two years. The band has not played a show since 2009 due to their lack of a vocalist. Their vocalist, Rocky Thunders, lives in San Diego and both David Ceballos(bass) and Emmanuel Beltran(guitar) live in Coachella Valley. The band is slowly, but surely working on their new EP. Once it's complete they will focus on playing shows to try and get their name out there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ejzZbNbXyU0/Tph5lQVuFgI/AAAAAAAAALQ/jYppe2hobWU/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ejzZbNbXyU0/Tph5lQVuFgI/AAAAAAAAALQ/jYppe2hobWU/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Coachella Valley's music scene is fairly active, with many bands of many genres including indie, psychobilly/rockabilly, punk, and alternative, but according to the band, metal is lacking. "With Curses we are thinking big. We really believe in our songs and in the impact that we could have. As far as being involved in the scene of the valley, we are. Since is not a big scene, we know most people involved in music. We help planning shows and sometimes we even let borrow our gear. I am really interested in recording and producing, so after our EP is done I would like to help other upcoming bands from the valley record their music." Says Ceballos.<br />
Emmanuel and David met through David's cousin and quickly hit it off because they shared music taste. "We liked Glam/Hair/Sleazy metal like Motley Crue, Faster Pussycat, La Guns, etc. but Mani and I were also into the new wave<br />
metalcore/post-hardcore music so we started jamming." Says Ceballos. The band searched for a vocalist for a long time and finally met Rocky at a party. "I noticed he had a motley crue shirt and cowboy boots on so I asked what he played; after he said he was a vocalist we agreed to practice. The funny thing is that in that party everybody hated Mani because he was wearing sunglasses at night. Rocky was one of those people, and he showed up to practice not knowing he was the guitarist." Recalls Ceballos.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLXHAzFD4LQ/Tph5l9xW_qI/AAAAAAAAALY/80sktarfH2o/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLXHAzFD4LQ/Tph5l9xW_qI/AAAAAAAAALY/80sktarfH2o/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band describes their sound as dark and raw, with glam and 80's influences. "Powerful lyrics that are about real and relate-able themes. We don’t have a specific recurring theme as a band, but we have a personal experience or a personal feeling embedded in each song. We like to keep lyrics as close to us<br />
as possible because as an audience, you could feel when the lyrics were<br />
written with some passion or feeling behind them"<br />
With the band's upcoming EP, The Beginning of Something, the band hopes to better polish up their sound, aiming for a better dynamic with a wide variety of sound. "In this EP we have everything from<br />
straight forward songs and structures, to complex songs with tempo and<br />
key changes; from super heavy songs to a new age power ballad; from feel-good kind of songs, to fast tempo head-banging songs, and even with all this variety you can still tell is Curses material." Says the band. After the release of the EP, the band hopes to play more shows to promote the release.JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Coachella Valley, Palm Desert, CA 92211, USA33.7666873 -116.359177233.7534873 -116.3789182 33.7798873 -116.33943620000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-51086141764612929892011-10-12T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-12T12:00:02.775-05:00Undercurrent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Gg7GE2-2q4/TpXD_G68rZI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CLyqIQRPlnY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Gg7GE2-2q4/TpXD_G68rZI/AAAAAAAAAKo/CLyqIQRPlnY/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Although the band came together in November of 2009, it wasn't until early 2010 when the band started recording their songs that they finally decided on a band name. The band jotted down a few name ideas, but after the process of elimination, they were left with the name, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Undercurrent/103423733035507">Undercurrent</a>. "We stuck with this name based on two of its meanings being 'an underlying feeling' and that of a 'under water current' i.e. In the sense of being dragged through life." Says the band.<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Undercurrent/103423733035507">Undercurrent</a> hails from Sheffeild, UK, home of producing artists such as Jarvis Cocker (Pulp), Def Leppard, Arctic Monkey's, Bring Me The Horizon and more recently, While She Sleeps. "The current scene tends to mainly contain 2 types of styles at the moment being 'Indie' and 'Metal' - We think we have the potential to fall into the latter of the two as although we are not metal in terms of the hardcore/ screamo bands such as Bring Me the Horizon we can be slightly heavier/ louder than your typical standard 'Rock' band."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DprG7omm16Q/TpXEAZDfuhI/AAAAAAAAALA/UiXBi3X9sW8/s1600/Photo004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DprG7omm16Q/TpXEAZDfuhI/AAAAAAAAALA/UiXBi3X9sW8/s1600/Photo004.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Over the last couple of years Sheffield has hosted the 'Tramlines' free music festival. "This festival takes over the city centre for a whole weekend with just about every pub/bar/club hosting free live music events for the entire weekend and in the case of some venues the week prior the festival is also quite busy. This Festival hosts many signed/internationally recognised artists as well as local unsigned artists such as ourselves and we were happy to take part in playing the festival in 2010." <br />
After playing the festival, the band played several local spots and was lucky enough to be chosen to support international metal/punk-rock band, Soul Warrior. They were also asked to support American band, Vega, before one of the members of Vega was injured and the band had to cancel. The band recently decided to take a short break from performing while they "reshuffle" the band, but hope to return to the stage before too long.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlohQgUKn7c/TpXD_pvbA7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/5BxZ4GOWeNk/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlohQgUKn7c/TpXD_pvbA7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/5BxZ4GOWeNk/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band comes from a variety of musical backgrounds and are influenced by a wide assortment of bands, incuding Audioslave, Deftones, Incubus, Brand New, Bring Me The Horizon, Gallows, Architects, and While She Sleeps. The songwriting is typically done by the band bassist, Lee Carnall, but the rest of the band sometimes tries their hands at writing. "Lee addresses general themes of life, but also writes from fiction. A lot of the songs have a double meaning with a song like Rehab appearing to be about addiction to drugs on a first listen but in reality is about a breakup/having feeling so strong that it feels like a drug/addiction." Says the band.<br />
In April 2011, The band made it to the regional finals of the National Live and Unsigned competition. "We were thrilled when we made it through to the Regional finals of the competition as it gave us recognition that others with knowledge of the music industry liked what we were doing. This also assisted in getting our name mentioned in a few local newspapers as well as a clip of our initial audition being placed on the competitions Youtube page. However, this also took a lot of time out of our schedule due to the competition having set tasks which meant you either had to write new material for each stage or amend existing material to fit the criteria of the tasks set for that stage."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANtVWcobfH4/TpXEAJOxzGI/AAAAAAAAAK4/GI-9jNN4EdE/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANtVWcobfH4/TpXEAJOxzGI/AAAAAAAAAK4/GI-9jNN4EdE/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band is looking into getting their music up on iTunes. Once the band gets it all sorted out, they will be releasing a new single titled,"The Count" which will be tied in with the release of the music video set to be filmed in the last weekend of October.<br />
With the recent addition of a new member, the band is working on new material as well as reworking their older material to work as a 6-piece. "We have started promoting our new sound to the local venues with hopes of getting back into the gigging scene and showing off our new sound. We already have received great feedback from Katie Parsons, Editor of New Music at Kerrang via twitter. Our next major step, following the completion of the music video for The Count, is to lay down an EP which we can get up for release as well as use to promote ourselves to a wider audience. We also have several gigs booked for early next year outside of Sheffield and we're looking to take our music to a lot of new people!" <br />
Be sure to check out this UK rock band on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Undercurrent/103423733035507">Facebook</a>!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com6Sheffield, UK53.3830548 -1.464795353.3072878 -1.6227238 53.458821799999996 -1.3068668tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-59455042641417767882011-10-11T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-11T12:00:04.093-05:00The Vanity Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XiZt67U1lM/TpRkeV7QoCI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/Y81NoZvyBgo/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XiZt67U1lM/TpRkeV7QoCI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/Y81NoZvyBgo/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
In the great underground music scene of Rossendale Valley, you'll find folk-pop band, <a href="http://www.thevanityproject.co.uk/">The Vanity Project</a> playing shows dressed in dresses and cravats. "The Vanity Project is a bit tongue in cheek really, but it was decided from the start that we wouldn’t hold back with any of our music." Says the band. Apart from dressing up, the band also makes sure that the drummer, Ste, is visible, unlike the usual 'drummer in the back' set-up.<br />
According to the band, this British 3-piece came together after a late night jamming session in a kitchen. The members have been involved in other works in different genres including drum & bass, hip-hop, soul, rock, and indie before forming the band.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QLhTjb3j1l4/TpRkd57xE1I/AAAAAAAAAKI/kT_gewSmBl0/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QLhTjb3j1l4/TpRkd57xE1I/AAAAAAAAAKI/kT_gewSmBl0/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
One of the band's biggest influences is the world around them. "A huge influence is the current times we are living in. Although born out of dark times and unashamedly writing many songs that reflect this The Vanity Project are hopeful of change which can be heard in many tracks such as 'I Fear Nothing' and 'What Really Matters'"<br />
The band's grab bag of sound ranges from powerful to haunting and then to good hearted pop. The band's success on <a href="http://www.soundcloud.com/thevanityproject">Soundcloud</a> is definitely motivating the band to do better and to keep on trucking. The band hands out free cd's at their shows as their way of saying thank you to the people who came out and gave them a listen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k_FIaWvNe7Q/TpRkezB89QI/AAAAAAAAAKY/veZMVIQ16fU/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k_FIaWvNe7Q/TpRkezB89QI/AAAAAAAAAKY/veZMVIQ16fU/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Over the summer, the band played at The Night & Day Café in Manchester to a fairly healthy crowd and even played a few music festivals. "Each show got us a repeat booking so hopefully we are doing something right." Says the band. <br />
The band also hopes to start playing the local scene night run by local musicians Tim Page & Maria Ward. "Their aim is to promote the vast amount of talent in the Rossendale Valley and surrounding areas. With the First ‘Scene’ night held recently with a great turn out and some amazing music. The Vanity Project will be getting involved with a Scene night in the near future." The band hopes to continue recording, performing and having a good time.<br />
Be sure to check out The Vanity Project on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thevanityprojectmusic">Facebook</a> for band updates!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com0Rossendale Valley, Rawtenstall, Lancashire BB4, UK53.7 -2.266666753.690599500000005 -2.2864077 53.7094005 -2.2469257000000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-87827247757604038242011-10-11T10:57:00.000-05:002011-10-11T10:57:21.922-05:00Uncharted Around The World 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--K4DcCyKD28/TpRnHLr6RSI/AAAAAAAAAKg/e5gUOgB0bzU/s1600/TheWorld.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--K4DcCyKD28/TpRnHLr6RSI/AAAAAAAAAKg/e5gUOgB0bzU/s1600/TheWorld.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
So, I recently decided to open the doors to unsigned bands all around the world, but for a limited time. The response over twitter was fantastic and several great bands emailed me. This week, the blog will feature several UK bands, because UK bands flooded my inbox. And next week, I hope to maybe get a bit more diverse in the country category! I hope you guys enjoy!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2545206364866911395.post-21922247418053758822011-10-07T12:00:00.000-05:002011-10-07T12:00:00.596-05:00The Worshyp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUc-qhBekDM/To39uHhsYbI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/-H6_BDW5cHc/s1600/Photo001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KUc-qhBekDM/To39uHhsYbI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/-H6_BDW5cHc/s1600/Photo001.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The idea for Toronto metal band, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theworshyp">The Worshyp</a> came when Marz Nova was jogging one morning. "I always listen to music when I work out. One day I just could not find any new music that I really wanted to hear, so I thought to myself 'I guess what I want to hear isn’t being made these days, so I’m going to have to write it myself.'" Recalls Nova. <br />
A few days later, he whipped up a song demo and showed it to friends. One song led to many and after getting a very positive online reception, Nova decided to put a band together. He found both Mig Diablo(bass) and Thor Rune(lead guitar) online via ads. Mig suggested KK Devina as they had played together with Paul Di’Anno.<br />
Nova decided on the name, The Worshyp because he felt it was a worthy representation of metal fans. "In other genres you are only as big as your latest hit. You’re here today and gone tomorrow. Metal fans follow their favourite bands for life like a priest follows the church." <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlUtwZzZkj0/To39u5I_mYI/AAAAAAAAAKE/mvFp8b2nHDQ/s1600/Photo003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlUtwZzZkj0/To39u5I_mYI/AAAAAAAAAKE/mvFp8b2nHDQ/s1600/Photo003.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
The band is influenced by a large range of music, from Rush to Pantera and Black Sabbath to Motorhead. Their sound is a perfect blend of the last 4 decades of hard rock and metal. "Each song offers the listener a totally different experience." Says the Nova. "I think there is certainly both a Canadian and American element to our music."<br />
Their debut album, Kingdom Earth, was released early January of this year. "Kingdom Earth is a broad scoped album. It has songs that are in-your-face thrash as well as elements of Grunge metal (The Sewers), progressive metal (Crop Circles) and even mainstream commercial heavy rock (The Manic’s Mantra). We did not want to corner ourselves musically and I think we avoided that with Kingdom Earth." Says Nova.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2J5CKjKjag/To39uqonHtI/AAAAAAAAAKA/JgDEkDcy2Ws/s1600/Photo002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x2J5CKjKjag/To39uqonHtI/AAAAAAAAAKA/JgDEkDcy2Ws/s1600/Photo002.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
Evil Abounds, the band's next album, will broaden the band's already broad scope. "There are heavier songs on there as well as our first ballad. I do not believe in “filler” songs and if I write a good song I delete it. I am very fastidious about my song writing. Good is not good enough for The Worshyp. Overall I think the writing, sound quality, vocals and musical performance has been improved greatly from that of Kingdom Earth." The band hopes to release the album some time in 2012.<br />
With an online following of over 50,000 people, the band couldn't be happier. "The fans have totally blown me away. Getting our logo tattooed on their arms, putting up badges on their profile, buying second and third copies of the CD for their friends. It really has been a surreal 9 months." After the band releases Evil Abounds, they hope to begin touring to support the release.<br />
Be sure to like the band on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/theworshyp">Facebook</a> to get all the album and show updates!JoeEFFINGmayohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06339974550449633427noreply@blogger.com1Toronto, ON, Canada43.653524 -79.383906943.46971 -79.6997639 43.837337999999995 -79.0680499