Friday, December 7, 2018
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
December Book Club 2018
This is our very first Book Club test.
Add your current book projects, your published books or articles, or your favorite book reviews.
You must link to your blog post or website only, no twitter or facebook type sites. If there is no picture on the internet, you may upload your own.
Note: this is a dry run, and an experiment to see if this will fly.
***************************************
Add your current book projects, your published books or articles, or your favorite book reviews.
You must link to your blog post or website only, no twitter or facebook type sites. If there is no picture on the internet, you may upload your own.
Note: this is a dry run, and an experiment to see if this will fly.
***************************************
Thursday, October 15, 2009
The Difference Between Sharing & Duplication - A Pet Peave
One of the first things I want to address as this blog transforms into an information blog for aspiring writers will be sharing and duplication. It is also one of my biggest pet peaves.
What's the difference?
Thats a loaded question, The simple answer is, it's the difference between getting search engines to love you, or flag and/or ban your site from future inclusions in search results.
Why, I see duplicate articles many places?
That may be true, but duplicating material to publish in more than one place on the internet, especially if it is word for word, does nothing to benefit you, or the site you are writing for, in essence, it spoils rankings, gets you flagged by search bots, and knocks your credibility out the window.
If you look closely, you may or may not notice that certain words or phrases have been changed. This helps, but essentially, when search bots spider sites, they take in account every word and phrase that has been repeated, and compare them to everything else they spider. Therefore, if the engines see this often, rankings for the sites go down, and may esentially fall off all together.
This happened to me this year. I accept writers for my sites who would like to send in submissions, and like to make a name for themselves by having their work published, while learning the ropes. After more than a year of working on the rankings for one of my sites, one writer in particular, who had never written for anyone before, and only had experience writing personal rants in a blog on a social network, began sending in articles for my music sites. At first things went fairly well, but then, amoung some of the problems I had with them, they began sending the same articles to several different sites online, word for word. I tried to explain this concept over and over, but to no avail. Either this person was to dense to understand simple rules, or they just did not give a flying you know what.
After months of trying to make this person understand this simple concept, and months of excuses, rudeness, disrespect, and more, plus emails that clearly stated more than once that this WAS NOT because I did not want them writing for someone else, in fact I encouraged it, it's called networking, I finally had enough and told them to move right along in the nicest way possible. Unfortunately, I did not give them the boot quick enough, because my rankings fell almost 50% in the time that this was going on. In February of this year I discovered 5, count them, 5 blogs that they had just created. Guess what, each blog had exactly ONE of the articles that were submitted to my site, word for word. Now what did this imbecile plan on doing, did they plan to create a new blog for each article they wrote.
So, with that said, what is the proper way to submit an article that has already been posted somewhere else?
Welcome to the world of social network sharing! It is so simple even a caveman can do it, or a dense "would be" writer ;-)
Almost everywhere you go on the net now, you see it. The little link or icon that says SHARE THIS! What, no link like that anywhere. Guess what, that still doesn't make it right to duplicate material you have already offered and published to someone elses site.
But it's MY WORK!!
Not once you submit it, then it is mine, or whoever you send it to. Of course it still belongs to you, but regardless, owning a car, does not give you the right to run a person over, nor hand your car over to an unlicensed driver so they can run someone over. Altho you may own it, and altho you may want to submit the same article to other publications, did you know that you could actually get yourself in trouble doing that. I'll bet you did not. You can get blackballed, or even sued if you are caught doing that by the wrong publication. There is a proper way to do this.
So, back to sharing. What if there is not a share option? Then we use what is called a leader, or some people who are less savey may call it a teaser. Whatever you call it, this would be the ONLY proper way to share your work in more than one place. Here is an example:
I wrote a 500 word article on the music business. I want to publish this in more than one place. I take the first paragragh or 2, and then I ask people to read the rest of the article "here", and I link them back to the ORIGINAL article, that would be the first place you sent it for publication. This is the ONLY way duplication is acceptable. Pretty simple huh?
Most large companies who accept writers submissions will make you sign an agreement that if you send them an original article, that you can not publish it anywhere else. I work for a few places like that, but they pay out good money for my articles, so I don't mind this at all. The ones I work with that I do not have such a contract with, allow you to share, but will penilize you or even "fire" you if you do not share in the proper format.
Hope this little post helps clear a few things up about why duplicating is bad for everyone, and why sharing is good for all.
One more piece of advice, if someone gives you the opportunity to get some recognition by allowing you to send in copy for publication, do have some respect.
You are there to learn, and they are doing YOU a favor. Be polite rather than rude, respectful, rather than disrespectfull, have some humbleness instead of becoming prematurely big headed, or pig headed for that matter. Don't burden and badger the person giving you the opportunity with your silly personal dramas, nor tell them what you think they should be doing.
Remember, the people you screw over while trying to step on and over them while rushing your way to "famedom", will be the same people that you will meet on your way down. Try to learn from someone who gives you an opportunity, and don't backstab and screw over people that have helped you. It is inevitable that life has it's ups and downs, and when you meet that same person on the way back down, you want to be able to ask them for help, not have them laugh at your misfortune.
Play like a pro, if you want to be a pro!
Here is a piece of advice for publishers and creators alike. Don't tell anyone what your plans or goals are before you get a chance to see them through. I made that mistake also, and that person took those ideas, and ran elsewhere with them. Posuers are everywhere, (a word I like) and they will take your ideas in a heartbeat. Hold your ideas and your creativity close to your heart untill you are ready to share them with the entire world!
Now, go write something!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
What's the difference?
Thats a loaded question, The simple answer is, it's the difference between getting search engines to love you, or flag and/or ban your site from future inclusions in search results.
Why, I see duplicate articles many places?
That may be true, but duplicating material to publish in more than one place on the internet, especially if it is word for word, does nothing to benefit you, or the site you are writing for, in essence, it spoils rankings, gets you flagged by search bots, and knocks your credibility out the window.
If you look closely, you may or may not notice that certain words or phrases have been changed. This helps, but essentially, when search bots spider sites, they take in account every word and phrase that has been repeated, and compare them to everything else they spider. Therefore, if the engines see this often, rankings for the sites go down, and may esentially fall off all together.
This happened to me this year. I accept writers for my sites who would like to send in submissions, and like to make a name for themselves by having their work published, while learning the ropes. After more than a year of working on the rankings for one of my sites, one writer in particular, who had never written for anyone before, and only had experience writing personal rants in a blog on a social network, began sending in articles for my music sites. At first things went fairly well, but then, amoung some of the problems I had with them, they began sending the same articles to several different sites online, word for word. I tried to explain this concept over and over, but to no avail. Either this person was to dense to understand simple rules, or they just did not give a flying you know what.
After months of trying to make this person understand this simple concept, and months of excuses, rudeness, disrespect, and more, plus emails that clearly stated more than once that this WAS NOT because I did not want them writing for someone else, in fact I encouraged it, it's called networking, I finally had enough and told them to move right along in the nicest way possible. Unfortunately, I did not give them the boot quick enough, because my rankings fell almost 50% in the time that this was going on. In February of this year I discovered 5, count them, 5 blogs that they had just created. Guess what, each blog had exactly ONE of the articles that were submitted to my site, word for word. Now what did this imbecile plan on doing, did they plan to create a new blog for each article they wrote.
So, with that said, what is the proper way to submit an article that has already been posted somewhere else?
Welcome to the world of social network sharing! It is so simple even a caveman can do it, or a dense "would be" writer ;-)
Almost everywhere you go on the net now, you see it. The little link or icon that says SHARE THIS! What, no link like that anywhere. Guess what, that still doesn't make it right to duplicate material you have already offered and published to someone elses site.
But it's MY WORK!!
Not once you submit it, then it is mine, or whoever you send it to. Of course it still belongs to you, but regardless, owning a car, does not give you the right to run a person over, nor hand your car over to an unlicensed driver so they can run someone over. Altho you may own it, and altho you may want to submit the same article to other publications, did you know that you could actually get yourself in trouble doing that. I'll bet you did not. You can get blackballed, or even sued if you are caught doing that by the wrong publication. There is a proper way to do this.
So, back to sharing. What if there is not a share option? Then we use what is called a leader, or some people who are less savey may call it a teaser. Whatever you call it, this would be the ONLY proper way to share your work in more than one place. Here is an example:
I wrote a 500 word article on the music business. I want to publish this in more than one place. I take the first paragragh or 2, and then I ask people to read the rest of the article "here", and I link them back to the ORIGINAL article, that would be the first place you sent it for publication. This is the ONLY way duplication is acceptable. Pretty simple huh?
Most large companies who accept writers submissions will make you sign an agreement that if you send them an original article, that you can not publish it anywhere else. I work for a few places like that, but they pay out good money for my articles, so I don't mind this at all. The ones I work with that I do not have such a contract with, allow you to share, but will penilize you or even "fire" you if you do not share in the proper format.
Hope this little post helps clear a few things up about why duplicating is bad for everyone, and why sharing is good for all.
One more piece of advice, if someone gives you the opportunity to get some recognition by allowing you to send in copy for publication, do have some respect.
You are there to learn, and they are doing YOU a favor. Be polite rather than rude, respectful, rather than disrespectfull, have some humbleness instead of becoming prematurely big headed, or pig headed for that matter. Don't burden and badger the person giving you the opportunity with your silly personal dramas, nor tell them what you think they should be doing.
Remember, the people you screw over while trying to step on and over them while rushing your way to "famedom", will be the same people that you will meet on your way down. Try to learn from someone who gives you an opportunity, and don't backstab and screw over people that have helped you. It is inevitable that life has it's ups and downs, and when you meet that same person on the way back down, you want to be able to ask them for help, not have them laugh at your misfortune.
Play like a pro, if you want to be a pro!
Here is a piece of advice for publishers and creators alike. Don't tell anyone what your plans or goals are before you get a chance to see them through. I made that mistake also, and that person took those ideas, and ran elsewhere with them. Posuers are everywhere, (a word I like) and they will take your ideas in a heartbeat. Hold your ideas and your creativity close to your heart untill you are ready to share them with the entire world!
Now, go write something!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Read our writers articles on our main blog!
I have been moving articles and reviews from this old writers blog, over to the main blog MusicRVA Blog! to save time, and create less confusion.
All the MusicRVA writers have been transferred here except one. We no longer support that writer or their work for a number of reasons, BUT, we do support the bands that were written about, so you can still find all those articles and any other posts that were not articles on this old blog, and that is where they will stay, as they are already indexed and spidered by the search engines.
Moving the writers articles over to the main blog, not only gives them a boost for the articles they have written, but also enables anyone who did not see them on that blog, a chance to read them on the main blog, so its a double benefit!
Plus, since the MusicRVA Blog has gotton several write ups, and good attention called to it on its own, everybody wins.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
All the MusicRVA writers have been transferred here except one. We no longer support that writer or their work for a number of reasons, BUT, we do support the bands that were written about, so you can still find all those articles and any other posts that were not articles on this old blog, and that is where they will stay, as they are already indexed and spidered by the search engines.
Moving the writers articles over to the main blog, not only gives them a boost for the articles they have written, but also enables anyone who did not see them on that blog, a chance to read them on the main blog, so its a double benefit!
Plus, since the MusicRVA Blog has gotton several write ups, and good attention called to it on its own, everybody wins.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Jim Morris Music
Jim has something in his music that everyone can like. Along with great guitar playing like Joe Satriani and up-lifting and inspirational melodic movements like Dream Theater, Jim captures the music lovers heart as well as their mind.
Jim Morris is an articulate singer/songwriter with a devotion to storytelling. Whether it is a thoughtful ballad about doomed love or an anthem to a night of drunken revelry, the listener can always count on well-crafted songs with carefully drawn characters, clever lyrics, and satirical charm.
Although Jim’s musical style is admittedly reminiscent of Jimmy Buffett and Jerry Jeff Walker, he has a knack for defying categorization. He mixes a whimsical island sound with a splash of Texas to produce a sound that is uniquely Gulf and Western.
Jim grew up in Georgia and has a heritage rich in music. His grandfather led a dance band, and everyone in the family either played an instrument or sang. At age 10 Jim taught himself to play the guitar by listening to Hank Williams records. After college (BA in English and graduate studies in English and Human Resources Management) while pursuing a career in human resources management, he continued to write songs and dream of the day when he could do it full-time. "After I graduated, I wanted to be a drifter and a writer; instead, I settled for corporate executive and closet entertainer."
During his 15-year corporate career, his job allowed him to live in several interesting locales, such as Montana, New Orleans, and St. Simons Island, all of which would figure prominently in his writing. Following a business trip during which he renewed his love affair with the southwest coast of Florida, Jim took the leap he had been contemplating for some time and left the corporate world for good.
Jim spent the subsequent years writing songs and playing gigs around Florida. From the beginning he took a big risk by featuring original music. "I spent about a year writing and developing a catalog of songs. I was unsure of my ability to sing and play the guitar professionally, but I thought my songs might separate me from the other performers."
A fortuitous meeting with recording artist Randy Matthews would result in Matthews producing Morris’ first recording, "Laid Back and Key Wasted," released in 1996 by Fish Head Music. As you would expect, each song tells a story: the title track is about a guy who gives up the corporate world for the beach; one is about the exploits of a pilot who flies contraband; another is about roadkill and the people who collect it; others tell great stories of sailing, fishing, and drinking. "After my first CD was released, I changed my focus. I stopped playing bars so much and I worked coffeehouses and bookstores. I wanted to play before a listening audience who might appreciate what I had to say. I made less money, but I started to develop a fan base."
Jim returned to the studio during the summer of 1997 to work with noted guitarist/producer Chris Hattingh. The result was "Bocanuts" which was released by Fish Head Music the following November. "Bocanuts" shows again that Jim is capable of creating memorable stories in a variety of musical moods. "With 'Bocanuts' I found a formula that I’m comfortable with and that people seem to enjoy: some tropical, some jazz, some country, some acoustic folk, and some humor. It certainly reflects my musical tastes."
With the success of "Bocanuts" and a growing catalog of songs, Jim decided to release a CD every year. In November of 1998 he was back with Hattingh recording "Looking for a Place to Happen" which was released in February 1999. "The CD didn’t turn out exactly as planned," says Morris. "Several songs I was hoping to include were not as good as I wanted them to be. Sensing my frustration, my wife, Sharon, sat me down with a list of my songs and pointed out a lot of songs I had neglected. Consequently, songs like "What Kind of Fool Can I Be," "The Hammock Club," "Gatsby Dreams," and "Sometimes I Wish" were added." "Looking for a Place to Happen" became the most critically acclaimed CD to date. Hattingh had little doubt that the CD would be successful. "As soon as we listened to the final mix, I knew that Jim had topped his other CDs. For a CD with a variety of musical styles, it had such an amazing continuity."
Following the release of "Looking for a Place to Happen," the pressure grew to perform more outside the state of Florida. "I wanted to be a 'lifestyle artist,' fishing by day and playing music by night. But I also wanted to broaden my fan base, so I hit the road a bit." He also formed the Big Bamboo Band in order to capture the full sound of his CDs in live performances. "Playing with the Big Bamboo Band required more discipline and concentration than playing solo. It took a while to get used to it. Playing with a band is like playing team sports, and you get the same feelings after a tight performance that you do when you win the big game."
True to his plan to produce a CD every year, December 1999 found Jim back in the studio working on his fourth CD, "Bar Stools and Beach Chairs." He took a different approach this time, preferring creative spontaneity to careful planning. "I wanted to feel my way through the project and do some tweaking and changing as we went along." As it turns out "Bar Stools" may be his best effort yet. Along with his customary strong lyrics Jim has produced a work with remarkable musical diversity. Chris Hattingh knew that once again Jim had a winner. "I know that Jim felt some pressure to top "Looking for a Place to Happen," but there is something for everyone on this CD."
Jim will direct his efforts to expanding his fan base and touring with the Big Bamboo Band. He will still make time to fish and will always be on the lookout for song material. "I don’t have much to show for my years except some great experiences, and that’s what I write about – the characters I’ve met and the places I’ve been. The thing that is both satisfying and alarming is that most of it is true."
Check out some of Jims Tracks below:
Find more music like this on Sojournstar Music Industry Network
Jim will also be perfoming in Richmond Virginia on August 22, 2009 with Sunny Jim for
Stars On The Water. Time to be announced.
The excerpts here are from Jims website Jim Morris Music! where you will also find full tour schedules and more.
You can also find Jim on the Sojournstar Music Industry Network
Jim Morris Network Profile!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Jim Morris is an articulate singer/songwriter with a devotion to storytelling. Whether it is a thoughtful ballad about doomed love or an anthem to a night of drunken revelry, the listener can always count on well-crafted songs with carefully drawn characters, clever lyrics, and satirical charm.
Although Jim’s musical style is admittedly reminiscent of Jimmy Buffett and Jerry Jeff Walker, he has a knack for defying categorization. He mixes a whimsical island sound with a splash of Texas to produce a sound that is uniquely Gulf and Western.
Jim grew up in Georgia and has a heritage rich in music. His grandfather led a dance band, and everyone in the family either played an instrument or sang. At age 10 Jim taught himself to play the guitar by listening to Hank Williams records. After college (BA in English and graduate studies in English and Human Resources Management) while pursuing a career in human resources management, he continued to write songs and dream of the day when he could do it full-time. "After I graduated, I wanted to be a drifter and a writer; instead, I settled for corporate executive and closet entertainer."
During his 15-year corporate career, his job allowed him to live in several interesting locales, such as Montana, New Orleans, and St. Simons Island, all of which would figure prominently in his writing. Following a business trip during which he renewed his love affair with the southwest coast of Florida, Jim took the leap he had been contemplating for some time and left the corporate world for good.
Jim spent the subsequent years writing songs and playing gigs around Florida. From the beginning he took a big risk by featuring original music. "I spent about a year writing and developing a catalog of songs. I was unsure of my ability to sing and play the guitar professionally, but I thought my songs might separate me from the other performers."
A fortuitous meeting with recording artist Randy Matthews would result in Matthews producing Morris’ first recording, "Laid Back and Key Wasted," released in 1996 by Fish Head Music. As you would expect, each song tells a story: the title track is about a guy who gives up the corporate world for the beach; one is about the exploits of a pilot who flies contraband; another is about roadkill and the people who collect it; others tell great stories of sailing, fishing, and drinking. "After my first CD was released, I changed my focus. I stopped playing bars so much and I worked coffeehouses and bookstores. I wanted to play before a listening audience who might appreciate what I had to say. I made less money, but I started to develop a fan base."
Jim returned to the studio during the summer of 1997 to work with noted guitarist/producer Chris Hattingh. The result was "Bocanuts" which was released by Fish Head Music the following November. "Bocanuts" shows again that Jim is capable of creating memorable stories in a variety of musical moods. "With 'Bocanuts' I found a formula that I’m comfortable with and that people seem to enjoy: some tropical, some jazz, some country, some acoustic folk, and some humor. It certainly reflects my musical tastes."
With the success of "Bocanuts" and a growing catalog of songs, Jim decided to release a CD every year. In November of 1998 he was back with Hattingh recording "Looking for a Place to Happen" which was released in February 1999. "The CD didn’t turn out exactly as planned," says Morris. "Several songs I was hoping to include were not as good as I wanted them to be. Sensing my frustration, my wife, Sharon, sat me down with a list of my songs and pointed out a lot of songs I had neglected. Consequently, songs like "What Kind of Fool Can I Be," "The Hammock Club," "Gatsby Dreams," and "Sometimes I Wish" were added." "Looking for a Place to Happen" became the most critically acclaimed CD to date. Hattingh had little doubt that the CD would be successful. "As soon as we listened to the final mix, I knew that Jim had topped his other CDs. For a CD with a variety of musical styles, it had such an amazing continuity."
Following the release of "Looking for a Place to Happen," the pressure grew to perform more outside the state of Florida. "I wanted to be a 'lifestyle artist,' fishing by day and playing music by night. But I also wanted to broaden my fan base, so I hit the road a bit." He also formed the Big Bamboo Band in order to capture the full sound of his CDs in live performances. "Playing with the Big Bamboo Band required more discipline and concentration than playing solo. It took a while to get used to it. Playing with a band is like playing team sports, and you get the same feelings after a tight performance that you do when you win the big game."
True to his plan to produce a CD every year, December 1999 found Jim back in the studio working on his fourth CD, "Bar Stools and Beach Chairs." He took a different approach this time, preferring creative spontaneity to careful planning. "I wanted to feel my way through the project and do some tweaking and changing as we went along." As it turns out "Bar Stools" may be his best effort yet. Along with his customary strong lyrics Jim has produced a work with remarkable musical diversity. Chris Hattingh knew that once again Jim had a winner. "I know that Jim felt some pressure to top "Looking for a Place to Happen," but there is something for everyone on this CD."
Jim will direct his efforts to expanding his fan base and touring with the Big Bamboo Band. He will still make time to fish and will always be on the lookout for song material. "I don’t have much to show for my years except some great experiences, and that’s what I write about – the characters I’ve met and the places I’ve been. The thing that is both satisfying and alarming is that most of it is true."
Check out some of Jims Tracks below:
Find more music like this on Sojournstar Music Industry Network
Jim will also be perfoming in Richmond Virginia on August 22, 2009 with Sunny Jim for
Stars On The Water. Time to be announced.
The excerpts here are from Jims website Jim Morris Music! where you will also find full tour schedules and more.
You can also find Jim on the Sojournstar Music Industry Network
Jim Morris Network Profile!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Sol from Alexandria Virginia
Band/Resource Name : Sol
Band/Resource Rep Name : 9th Floor Music
Take two scoops of Funk; throw in a heathly serving of Reggae; stir in a few large cups of deep Piedmont Blues; throw in a pinch of Latin Flavor for spice, and top it off with some Old School R&B. Shake it up and you've got the music of Sol. A venerable pan stew of groove.
Sol leads a collaboration of musicians from the southeast and mid-atlantic US. Sol and his band members are no strangers to the road.
Sol has covered much of the surface of the earth on tour, lighting up venues across North America, Europe, Australia and the Caribbean.
Sol has shared the stage with blues heavyweights such as Taj Mahal, BB King, Cootie Starks, Cool John Ferguson, John Dee Holeman, Robert Randolph, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Derek Trucks and others.
Paying homage to the greats, Sol seeks to bring Roots Music to a new generation of listeners.
Sol's CD release entitled Freedom, features the core musical unit of Sol on guitar and vocals, King George on drums, and Jake D on bass. Also guest appearances by Tim Smith (Squirrel Nut Zippers, Hobex, and Countdown Quartet), as well as members of VA’s reggae groups the Seed and the Alliens. With these special guests, the new album moves from greasy delta grooves to deep reggae, and from stanky funk to soulful R&B.
Here's what some reviewers are saying about the new CD Freedom:
"one of the top 15 CD's of 2008!"- Green Arrow Radio (created by the Funk Soul Music Director at WHUS) placed the album alongside Sean Costello, Taj Mahal, Bill Laswell, PBS, Marcus Miller & more in top picks of 2008!
“Sol is excellent at morphing rock, blues, soul, and reggae, taking it all to a different level and contributing to the evolution of music into- quoting Sly Stone- 'a whole new thing'. Freedom is a great example of this band’s music and a truly enjoyable listening experience”- Len Comaratta- WUVT Music Director
"Sol pulls together funk, soul, blues and reggae elements...
Sol uses his right hand fingers, not a pick, to get his bluesy, dirty-sweet solo lines, and he delivers the raw and tasteful in even helpings....
You have to admire a blues/soul singer who is trying to sound like himself, instead of some old blues guy... Good Party Music... " - Tad Dickens- Press Review
"Sol pours out his heart and soul on Freedom. A must have for any music collection" - Wes Lee- Locals Only Radio (Washington DC area)
Band/Resource Website 1 : http://www.sol-roots.com
Band/Resource Website 2 : http://www.myspace.com/solblues
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Band/Resource Rep Name : 9th Floor Music
Take two scoops of Funk; throw in a heathly serving of Reggae; stir in a few large cups of deep Piedmont Blues; throw in a pinch of Latin Flavor for spice, and top it off with some Old School R&B. Shake it up and you've got the music of Sol. A venerable pan stew of groove.
Sol leads a collaboration of musicians from the southeast and mid-atlantic US. Sol and his band members are no strangers to the road.
Sol has covered much of the surface of the earth on tour, lighting up venues across North America, Europe, Australia and the Caribbean.
Sol has shared the stage with blues heavyweights such as Taj Mahal, BB King, Cootie Starks, Cool John Ferguson, John Dee Holeman, Robert Randolph, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Derek Trucks and others.
Paying homage to the greats, Sol seeks to bring Roots Music to a new generation of listeners.
Sol's CD release entitled Freedom, features the core musical unit of Sol on guitar and vocals, King George on drums, and Jake D on bass. Also guest appearances by Tim Smith (Squirrel Nut Zippers, Hobex, and Countdown Quartet), as well as members of VA’s reggae groups the Seed and the Alliens. With these special guests, the new album moves from greasy delta grooves to deep reggae, and from stanky funk to soulful R&B.
Here's what some reviewers are saying about the new CD Freedom:
"one of the top 15 CD's of 2008!"- Green Arrow Radio (created by the Funk Soul Music Director at WHUS) placed the album alongside Sean Costello, Taj Mahal, Bill Laswell, PBS, Marcus Miller & more in top picks of 2008!
“Sol is excellent at morphing rock, blues, soul, and reggae, taking it all to a different level and contributing to the evolution of music into- quoting Sly Stone- 'a whole new thing'. Freedom is a great example of this band’s music and a truly enjoyable listening experience”- Len Comaratta- WUVT Music Director
"Sol pulls together funk, soul, blues and reggae elements...
Sol uses his right hand fingers, not a pick, to get his bluesy, dirty-sweet solo lines, and he delivers the raw and tasteful in even helpings....
You have to admire a blues/soul singer who is trying to sound like himself, instead of some old blues guy... Good Party Music... " - Tad Dickens- Press Review
"Sol pours out his heart and soul on Freedom. A must have for any music collection" - Wes Lee- Locals Only Radio (Washington DC area)
Band/Resource Website 1 : http://www.sol-roots.com
Band/Resource Website 2 : http://www.myspace.com/solblues
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
BEFORE THE MACHINE PICKS UP STEAM.
By Crystal Snyder
Far down West Broad Street 11:00pm is oddly quiet for a Friday night in Richmond, cars come and go, few people walk the street, but in their hurried rush to get to various clubs and bars they miss my destination, a small pool hall called The Triple.
Upon approaching this unlikely venue, I see several familiar faces, one in particular of the man who had me coming out here in the first place, Seth Nicholls (also of Red Clay Village). Seth was excited, I could tell that from down the street, and his voice belied his cool demeanor as we talked before entering the club. He told me about the bands that were playing that night, and about his new band, the one I came to see, Before the Machine.
I quickly took stock of my surroundings as we entered the bar, blood red walls, a cool tile floor, billiards in the back, and the familiar smell of alcohol and cigarette smoke encompassed my senses, as the first bands music assaulted my ears. I looked for the familiar faces I had seen outside, the other members of Before the Machine, Johnny Throckmorton, Jeb Mease, Chris Ratterree and Mike Lester. Knowing the superb talent they showed in other bands, I felt that this new project had a lot to live up to, I knew then this was going to make for an interesting night.
As the second band took the floor, I talked to some of the other patrons of the bar, all of them excited to see Before the Machine. This was their second show, and as the second band’s set drew to a close, the tension grew thicker, almost suffocating as the guys picked up the instruments that had been so patiently waiting in the corner.
Sound check and tuning commenced as people rose from their various perches like bones rising from the dead, waiting to pass judgment. Then it happened, the first note, the first chord , and Throckmorton took the mic. With a quick shout out of “What’s up RICHMOND?!?!?” Before the Machine had arrived, and even in the Intro it was apparent they were at no less than 110%.
As they slipped into “Blissful“, “Mikie’s Song” and “Eye if the World“, the crowd reaction went from swaying bodies and nodding heads to a full on mosh pit. Mease’s drumming was right on, never once skipping a beat, the phenomenal guitar work of Ratterree and Lester surpassed my expectations, and Nicholls’s bass work rounded out the whole outstanding package.
They ended the night with “Silent Movie” and “The New Song”. Even as the clock approached 2:00am all five members never lost the breakout energy of the Intro. Before the Machine is a ton of talent a mile outside of the box and a live show should not be missed, find out where you can catch them next near you on their MySpace Page!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Far down West Broad Street 11:00pm is oddly quiet for a Friday night in Richmond, cars come and go, few people walk the street, but in their hurried rush to get to various clubs and bars they miss my destination, a small pool hall called The Triple.
Upon approaching this unlikely venue, I see several familiar faces, one in particular of the man who had me coming out here in the first place, Seth Nicholls (also of Red Clay Village). Seth was excited, I could tell that from down the street, and his voice belied his cool demeanor as we talked before entering the club. He told me about the bands that were playing that night, and about his new band, the one I came to see, Before the Machine.
I quickly took stock of my surroundings as we entered the bar, blood red walls, a cool tile floor, billiards in the back, and the familiar smell of alcohol and cigarette smoke encompassed my senses, as the first bands music assaulted my ears. I looked for the familiar faces I had seen outside, the other members of Before the Machine, Johnny Throckmorton, Jeb Mease, Chris Ratterree and Mike Lester. Knowing the superb talent they showed in other bands, I felt that this new project had a lot to live up to, I knew then this was going to make for an interesting night.
As the second band took the floor, I talked to some of the other patrons of the bar, all of them excited to see Before the Machine. This was their second show, and as the second band’s set drew to a close, the tension grew thicker, almost suffocating as the guys picked up the instruments that had been so patiently waiting in the corner.
Sound check and tuning commenced as people rose from their various perches like bones rising from the dead, waiting to pass judgment. Then it happened, the first note, the first chord , and Throckmorton took the mic. With a quick shout out of “What’s up RICHMOND?!?!?” Before the Machine had arrived, and even in the Intro it was apparent they were at no less than 110%.
As they slipped into “Blissful“, “Mikie’s Song” and “Eye if the World“, the crowd reaction went from swaying bodies and nodding heads to a full on mosh pit. Mease’s drumming was right on, never once skipping a beat, the phenomenal guitar work of Ratterree and Lester surpassed my expectations, and Nicholls’s bass work rounded out the whole outstanding package.
They ended the night with “Silent Movie” and “The New Song”. Even as the clock approached 2:00am all five members never lost the breakout energy of the Intro. Before the Machine is a ton of talent a mile outside of the box and a live show should not be missed, find out where you can catch them next near you on their MySpace Page!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Circles of Concrete: Prabir and the Substitutes!
Pop rock all around fun band Prabir and the Substitutes played nothing less than a kick ass show at Gallery 5 last night. They boys released their latest CD entitled Hello to a packed audience and turned their awesome-ness factor to 11. Not only did they play new songs from their new album as well as favorites from Five Little Pieces , they also played a few covers including "These Boots Were Made For Walking." To cap off the evening, the boys destroyed their instruments Clash-style during the finale.
Prabir and the Substitutes are on tour supporting Hello. If you get the chance to see them, do yourself a favor. Drop what you are doing and go.
To hear a clip of Who's Gonna love Ya from the album Hello, check out the link
Circles of Concrete: Prabir and the Substitutes!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Prabir and the Substitutes are on tour supporting Hello. If you get the chance to see them, do yourself a favor. Drop what you are doing and go.
To hear a clip of Who's Gonna love Ya from the album Hello, check out the link
Circles of Concrete: Prabir and the Substitutes!
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
MusicRVA: Get on Our Top List - New Fun Ways To Link
MusicRVA: Get on Our Top List - New Fun Ways To Link
***************************************
Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
***************************************
Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Morrissey and Mia Riddle
Christy Sheppard
Richmond.com
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Scene + Heard Concert Review: Morrissey at the National and Mia Riddle at Poe's
Sometimes you look forward to a show for a long time and you end up disappointed. Sometimes you hear a band's recorded music and are bummed when you hear them live. Sometimes, though, reality exceeds your expectations.
I saw two shows last week that were excellent. I see a lot of shows. Shows about which I don't usually care enough to write.
These two shows I didn't want to let fade from my ever-waning memory without putting down in writing for all of you (and all of the world!) to see. Hey, I'm a giver.
First, I caught Mia Riddle and Her Band as they stopped through Richmond via Poe's Pub on their way to Austin's SXSW, promoting their album, Tumble and Drag.
I arrived around 8:15 (because I thought the show as supposed to start at 8) and around 10 o'clock all preparation was complete and Mia's band was ready to go.
I'd been listening to their myspace playlist for a few days prior to the event because I never like going to show completely in the blind, and Mia's band is new to me. She sounded just as great in person as she did in recording. She was pop and she was rock, and she was a little country ... a delightful mixture.
Mia's voice continually reminded me of Jenny Lewis'; a comparison most would welcome. Although she did sound a little raspy and admitted she was battling a cold, it didn't distract from her performance and her voice was strong and pleasant.
I don't know if you've ever seen a show at Poe's but the "stage" is rather small. On several occasions I felt like the band really wanted to rock out but were hindered by the size of the stage. Despite the space limitations, they made the most of the night, and our attention spans.
Everyone but Dave Wyss (bass) had a mic; geez, he must really be a bad singer, huh? I kid.
The rest of the band consisted of Amy Merrill (keys, back-up vocals), Dan Barry (guitar, back-up vocals) and Jeff Neuberger (drums, back-up vocals). Mia stuck to singing and the guitar although she also plays the glockenspiel and keys.
Amy and Mia harmonized well and sounded sweet together. At the risk of sounding creepy, Amy had these super delicate fingers that looked as if they were sculpted just for the keys or for rescuing objects that have fallen into really tight spaces (or for stealing food from the vending machine). She had a funny smirk on her face that lasted most of the set. Apparently we were all having a great time.
As a testament to their songwriting skills, I recognized "Grandchildren", "City Song" and "Open Wide" right away and (happily) was even able to sing along.
In red flats that matched Amy's keyboard, Mia stomped and played her way though the set. I'm compelled to liken her to actor-turned-singer Zooey Deschanel; but Mia has a stonger voice and she's cuter, too. Sorry, I'm only into She & Him sans the "She &" part.
This was the first stop on their tour, so naturally they had a few blips here and there but they easily laughed them off. I've seen bands make a big deal out of mistakes and, frankly, peeps, most of us won't notice unless you don't call attention to your screw-ups.
I kept thinking to myself that this little performance deserved more of an audience and perhaps a larger venue. I won't complain, though, I'm glad they stopped by and I'm hoping they'll return. Maybe one day soon, they'll have ample opportunity to show off their talent to larger crowds.
Check out their video for "Open Wide" on YouTube.
The next night, myself and a few friends ventured our way out to the National to see the legendary Morrissey.
I've said this before, but I've never been a really big fan of his or of the Smiths, the band he used to front. This only means I had no idea what to expect and that I was blown away by what I saw and heard.
The guy is pushing 50 and he ran that stage like it was his, umm ... let's just say he showed everyone who was boss. Looking like a mixture between Dr. Troy McNamara (Nip/Tuck) and Robin Williams (in looks and in stage presence, respectively) he commanded the attention of every face in the crowd.
The stage was set up so the Moz had plenty of space to stalk around, whipping the mic cord to and fro. Picture a bullfighter with his cape ... with imaginary bulls coming at him from every direction.
I recognized more songs than I'd expected to, and when that insane riff from "How Soon Is Now?" started, nearly everyone in the sold out crowd of 1,500 took to their feet.
As big a ham as Morrissey was, his band wasn't leaving without making its presence felt. Drummer Matt Walker rocked an impressive set of drums that included an 18-wheeler-tire-sized bass and even a gong. Chris Bopst said recently, "The larger the drum set, the more likely the band is going blow." Sorry, Chris, but in at least this instance, that argument fails. (read the article here)
Moz sang the line 'But then you open your eyes and you see someone that you physically despise' from "Let Me Kiss You" at the precise moment he decided to remove shirt number two of three for the evening (if the timing was unintentional I'll eat my chucks). He'd already briefly left the stage long enough to change from a blue and white checkered print into the black dress shirt he was currently removing.
When he took off said black dress shirt, it was just too much for one excited fan to handle. This super-fan squeezed his way through a team of scowling security guards and chased Morrissey off-stage, dragging annoyed staff-members along with him. In line with the theme of the night (Morrissey is touring in support of his latest album, Years of Refusal), this eager-beaver wasn't giving up without a fight.
An unphased Morrissey reappeared in less than 5; donning another button-down ... this one pink.
Everything about the show was huge: the sound, the production, the enthusiasm, the egos.
All week I'd been a little skeptical as to whether he'd even show up (many shows had been cancelled prior to this one). Luckily he didn't let us down. Maybe he showed because it was Friday the 13th, maybe not. Whatever the reason, I'm glad I was there.
Morrissey on myspace | Mia Riddle on myspace
NOTE: Christy Sheppard is an established writer with publications like Richmond.com and was kind enough to share this article with us. We look forward to many more of Christy Sheppards writing contributions. Keep watching.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Richmond.com
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Scene + Heard Concert Review: Morrissey at the National and Mia Riddle at Poe's
Sometimes you look forward to a show for a long time and you end up disappointed. Sometimes you hear a band's recorded music and are bummed when you hear them live. Sometimes, though, reality exceeds your expectations.
I saw two shows last week that were excellent. I see a lot of shows. Shows about which I don't usually care enough to write.
These two shows I didn't want to let fade from my ever-waning memory without putting down in writing for all of you (and all of the world!) to see. Hey, I'm a giver.
First, I caught Mia Riddle and Her Band as they stopped through Richmond via Poe's Pub on their way to Austin's SXSW, promoting their album, Tumble and Drag.
I arrived around 8:15 (because I thought the show as supposed to start at 8) and around 10 o'clock all preparation was complete and Mia's band was ready to go.
I'd been listening to their myspace playlist for a few days prior to the event because I never like going to show completely in the blind, and Mia's band is new to me. She sounded just as great in person as she did in recording. She was pop and she was rock, and she was a little country ... a delightful mixture.
Mia's voice continually reminded me of Jenny Lewis'; a comparison most would welcome. Although she did sound a little raspy and admitted she was battling a cold, it didn't distract from her performance and her voice was strong and pleasant.
I don't know if you've ever seen a show at Poe's but the "stage" is rather small. On several occasions I felt like the band really wanted to rock out but were hindered by the size of the stage. Despite the space limitations, they made the most of the night, and our attention spans.
Everyone but Dave Wyss (bass) had a mic; geez, he must really be a bad singer, huh? I kid.
The rest of the band consisted of Amy Merrill (keys, back-up vocals), Dan Barry (guitar, back-up vocals) and Jeff Neuberger (drums, back-up vocals). Mia stuck to singing and the guitar although she also plays the glockenspiel and keys.
Amy and Mia harmonized well and sounded sweet together. At the risk of sounding creepy, Amy had these super delicate fingers that looked as if they were sculpted just for the keys or for rescuing objects that have fallen into really tight spaces (or for stealing food from the vending machine). She had a funny smirk on her face that lasted most of the set. Apparently we were all having a great time.
As a testament to their songwriting skills, I recognized "Grandchildren", "City Song" and "Open Wide" right away and (happily) was even able to sing along.
In red flats that matched Amy's keyboard, Mia stomped and played her way though the set. I'm compelled to liken her to actor-turned-singer Zooey Deschanel; but Mia has a stonger voice and she's cuter, too. Sorry, I'm only into She & Him sans the "She &" part.
This was the first stop on their tour, so naturally they had a few blips here and there but they easily laughed them off. I've seen bands make a big deal out of mistakes and, frankly, peeps, most of us won't notice unless you don't call attention to your screw-ups.
I kept thinking to myself that this little performance deserved more of an audience and perhaps a larger venue. I won't complain, though, I'm glad they stopped by and I'm hoping they'll return. Maybe one day soon, they'll have ample opportunity to show off their talent to larger crowds.
Check out their video for "Open Wide" on YouTube.
The next night, myself and a few friends ventured our way out to the National to see the legendary Morrissey.
I've said this before, but I've never been a really big fan of his or of the Smiths, the band he used to front. This only means I had no idea what to expect and that I was blown away by what I saw and heard.
The guy is pushing 50 and he ran that stage like it was his, umm ... let's just say he showed everyone who was boss. Looking like a mixture between Dr. Troy McNamara (Nip/Tuck) and Robin Williams (in looks and in stage presence, respectively) he commanded the attention of every face in the crowd.
The stage was set up so the Moz had plenty of space to stalk around, whipping the mic cord to and fro. Picture a bullfighter with his cape ... with imaginary bulls coming at him from every direction.
I recognized more songs than I'd expected to, and when that insane riff from "How Soon Is Now?" started, nearly everyone in the sold out crowd of 1,500 took to their feet.
As big a ham as Morrissey was, his band wasn't leaving without making its presence felt. Drummer Matt Walker rocked an impressive set of drums that included an 18-wheeler-tire-sized bass and even a gong. Chris Bopst said recently, "The larger the drum set, the more likely the band is going blow." Sorry, Chris, but in at least this instance, that argument fails. (read the article here)
Moz sang the line 'But then you open your eyes and you see someone that you physically despise' from "Let Me Kiss You" at the precise moment he decided to remove shirt number two of three for the evening (if the timing was unintentional I'll eat my chucks). He'd already briefly left the stage long enough to change from a blue and white checkered print into the black dress shirt he was currently removing.
When he took off said black dress shirt, it was just too much for one excited fan to handle. This super-fan squeezed his way through a team of scowling security guards and chased Morrissey off-stage, dragging annoyed staff-members along with him. In line with the theme of the night (Morrissey is touring in support of his latest album, Years of Refusal), this eager-beaver wasn't giving up without a fight.
An unphased Morrissey reappeared in less than 5; donning another button-down ... this one pink.
Everything about the show was huge: the sound, the production, the enthusiasm, the egos.
All week I'd been a little skeptical as to whether he'd even show up (many shows had been cancelled prior to this one). Luckily he didn't let us down. Maybe he showed because it was Friday the 13th, maybe not. Whatever the reason, I'm glad I was there.
Morrissey on myspace | Mia Riddle on myspace
NOTE: Christy Sheppard is an established writer with publications like Richmond.com and was kind enough to share this article with us. We look forward to many more of Christy Sheppards writing contributions. Keep watching.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
An Interview with Joe Buck
Joe Buck, or Jim to his friends, has a plan. He plans to stay pissed off and sing about it until there is no need to anymore. In a way Joe Buck is an activist, but not by protesting or props, which he finds redundant, but by translating and transferring emotion and energy to his audience. During my phone interview with him, tape recorder by the phone, praying it was working, Joe was somewhere in Florida, on tour as always. Joe Buck is a humble man who doesn’t think he is anything special. He plays for us and he will always play for us, whether it’s a crowd of 2 or 2000. Joe Buck and I found common ground on many topics and shared some personal stories that showed me the roller coaster that has been Joe Buck’s life. I am now not just a fan of Joe Buck Yourself, I’m a fan and I hope a friend of Jim.
Cindy: You just returned from Europe. How did that part of the tour go? Is playing Europe any different than playing the U.S.?
Joe Buck: Well, it was exactly the same. It was weird, it is weird. I mean this first show in Rotterdam I was singing “Evil MF from Tennessee” and I usually let the crowd say “Tennessee”, and I’m in Rotterdam and I was like, okay, and just stopped, boom, and sure enough I heard “Tennessee”!
Cindy: So your fan base is strong in Europe?
Joe Buck: Well I’m not trying to be different, it’s just the way it comes out. I mean, obviously they’re looking for something different and you know there’s not too many places for them to get something like that I guess. It was amazing. I’m going back over there in the fall for about two months.
Cindy: I’ve noticed so many bands booking Europe dates on their tour schedules. It seems like a popular thing to do, I guess it always has been.
Joe Buck: Well, I don’t book the shows, I just let people know where I am, so it’s good because I just deal with people. We’re not getting in touch with clubs, it’s not like that. I just want to go where the people want me to come. I’m just excited about having a show. The best shows are when you get your local bands together and there’s people and you have a party. I only care about the people who are there.
Cindy: We may not have had a huge crowd for you last year when you played here, but everyone was there for you. And what I thought was so special was you telling everyone to come stand by you as close as they could, and they did for the whole show, and that was a very different experience. It made me feel like I was part of your performance. It was very memorable for me.
Joe Buck: Well, I mean, it’s all about the people. I mean, I’m playing for them, you know, so yeah, the whole getting up close thing is like it takes all of us to make that show happen. The energy has to come from all of us and yeah, that’s not like most shows.
In most shows the band comes on and the people stare at them, and they go through the show, and they go off stage, you know? That’s not what I’m doing.
Cindy: You are well known in The Legendary Shack Shakers. Were there bands before that? What was the beginning for you as a performer?
Joe Buck: I’ve been in bands my whole life. There have been a zillion other bands. I had success with this band named Gringo back in the early 90’s. I mean, you know, drinkin’ and druggin’ ruined it, but I was doing shit then, in rock bands from late ’79 on and I was in all these punk bands in the beginning. I mean, I was from a farm in Missouri, so when I was a kid growing up there was Bocephus, Van Halen, The Cars, but when I left the farm it was like I immediately found punk. You know, it was like 3 years after the fact, but it was late 1979, it wasn’t 1977, but it was still new enough to where I said, okay, and played in punk bands.
When I was 21, I think I heard Hank Williams on a commercial or something and it was usually someone else doing his songs, really badly. Then I met a great friend of mine, Jerry Bender, who I owe a debt of gratitude to. He was the produce guy at the Piggly Wiggly and lived around the corner from me. I’d have my little punk rock parties and he was my neighbor, just lived right around the corner, and one day he said “your music sucks, I’m bringing my own music”. So he brought over Hank Williams 40 Greatest Hits and you know, it changed my life. Jerry Bender! And that was in the early 80’s. I still played in punk bands until 1994 just because I knew that playing country takes skill and time so I worked on it all those years, but I still played in punk bands to get by.
But my band Gringo got a bunch of great reviews. I thought I was trying to be Hank Williams. I was just so strung out and drunk that I was just kind of lost in that, but those were great records, I was in great bands, but I just ruined it, just played too hard.
Cindy: How do you describe the type of music you play and especially the way you play in your solo act?
Joe Buck: I have to play every song as hard as I can. I mean, that’s the first thing people always come up to me and hug me after a show and say “Oh my God” because I’m soaking wet. Not just a little wet, I mean like somebody just dumped a bunch of water on me. And that’s because, yeah, I play every song as hard as I can. It’s all rooted in old hillbilly music and blues. I’m not doing anything new, I mean, maybe the approach is about something different.
Cindy: Where does all the aggression come from?
Joe Buck: Because I’m pissed off, man. I’m pissed at the way people treat each other, I’m pissed at all the cold blooded greed. I’m so sick of all the bullshit in the world. There’s so much to go around, man. I’m pissed off at mass communication. I’m pissed off at Nashville, you know, as a kid growing up on a farm, instead of having somebody from my area on the radio singing to me, for me, like Hank Williams would’ve been, no, I got fu#@ing Barbara Mandrell. The worst bullshit in the world. So that music didn’t speak to me. I hated that music. I mean, openly as a kid I said I hated country music, so it made me hate where I was from. I had issues and I had to get them out.
I left Nashville and moved to Western Kentucky, just over the border. The people in Nashville were great, it’s the music industry that polluted a whole generation of good country kids. That’s why they’re listening to Fifty Cent right now. They’re adopting a culture that has nothing to do with them. You have to know where you’re from to know where you’re going.
Cindy: I heard you had a show here about a year ago with the infamous Cuz’n Wildweed and the Vapor Rhinos. Something happened at the club, Poes Pub, can you fill us in?
Joe Buck: The Vapor Rhinos had a fog machine that you could’ve put in an arena. So we saw smoke coming out of the club from our RV. Kathy and I looked and there was all this smoke billowing out from the club. You couldn’t see inside the club. The club was completely filled with smoke and it was billowing out the doors. It was like the place was burning down. So we’re running out of the RV to see what’s going on and the Vapor Rhinos were still playing on stage. You couldn’t even see them. It was the funniest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. It ran everybody out of the bar, which was even more genius. I was like, yeah, they’ll remember that show forever.
Cindy: What was it like performing with Cuz’n Wildweed?
Joe Buck: Well, I’m glad that Cuz’n Wildweed is here on this planet. What can I say, you rarely meet somebody that has a giving soul, because the majority of us are cancerous, lecherous thieves. So to find somebody like Cuz’n shows me that good people are out there and it gives me hope, otherwise I’d blow my brains out! We’re in this thing for the long haul, and that’s what we need, are people that give a shit.
I promise I will always show up to play as hard as I possibly can. I don’t care if it’s the 20th show of 20 shows in a row, you’re gonna get the same show. You have to give if you’re an artist. It’s the truest thing. And I only learned that from losing everything and being pummeled by everything. Then I realized I didn’t need anything. The only things I need are the things I can carry inside of me.
Cindy: Have there been any spiritual influences or experiences that have helped guide you to where you are now?
Joe Buck: All I need is to not feel worthless, because I was. So, by working so much and playing, those things make me feel good. If I feel something or smile or rock out, whatever it is, then I did something that made somebody feel something, so being able to give them whatever that is and by them feeling something, then I don’t feel worthless. So it’s really as simple as that.
What changed, I have no idea man. It’s like one day, I just can’t explain it. I was almost dead, so I really don’t know. It’s weird too because the dope, I’m around it all the time. It’s so funny. It’s like, here’s the funniest part about your addiction, here’s your job and you’re gonna be surrounded by it and that’s the best way to have it. Keep your enemies close, man. But I never wanted it, and it’s like I said, twenty years of full on crazy and then one day just like, I can’t explain it. I did think I had a dream kind of thing that was like, I gave up all the drugs and pills, it doesn’t matter what it is, it’s all the same thing, so it’s like, if you give up one thing, all the rest of the things that you need in your life will bear themselves.
I was like, man, I’m not stupid, this sounds like a pretty good deal. And that’s pretty much how it worked out. I don’t judge anybody by what they do or what road they’re going down. Everybody’s got to live their own life. And as awful as it was, because there is no glamour in it, you know, it’s just pathetic. I don’t look back on any of this stuff fondly, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m fighting fire with fire, filth with filth, decease with decease.
Cindy: You played with Hank III for years. To anyone that would seem like a perpetual party. How long did the party last before you had enough?
Joe Buck: Well I never had enough of it. That thing was a pro gig man. Yeah, we had fun but we rocked every night, I mean everybody was f@#ked up, you know, you can’t do that shit, you have to almost be an athlete. Yeah, it’s fun, but I mean….there were several things like, this thing now is steady work, and that gives me peace of mind.
Cindy: Your fans now know about the split with you and Hank III. Do you mind telling us what happened?
Joe Buck: First of all, he (Hank III) is a solo artist. I was just a side guy. I mean, he’s had a zillion guys in his band. I mean, it’s about the songs. I loved every minute of that, but I started working (solo) after we played Nashville on Thanksgiving of 2007 and when I started doing this no tours (with Hank III) were booked, so I kept working. You know, and he went on. So that’s what happened, there was no “split”. There was no big decision made, I just never heard from him. So he got another bass player and I was like, okay, I’ll keep touring.
Cindy: Are you happier as a solo artist?
Joe Buck: I’ve always written and played, besides Hank III, I always wrote and sang the songs, so I mean, because I played with him for so long, sure I miss that, but not for the reasons you think. It’s like, I miss my friend. But this thing that I’m doing, you said it, it’s really important and it’s growing like crazy, and yes, when you’re a side guy, you don’t know what’s going on, you know? This way works for me. It gives me huge peace of mind. And then, I love my girlfriend. We’re getting married as soon as I can pull off the road long enough!
Cindy: What’s next for Joe Buck? Are there any new releases we can get excited about?
Joe Buck: I’m recording and I’ll have a new release out by July. I’ll have it ready for the tour with Wayne (Hancock). Oh yeah, Wayne Hancock and Joe Buck are gonna f@#ck up the West Coast man!!!
Cindy: What more really needs to said?
Joe Buck will be playing The Triple on May 12, 2009
You can visit Joe Buck’s website: www.joebuckyourself.com
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Cindy: You just returned from Europe. How did that part of the tour go? Is playing Europe any different than playing the U.S.?
Joe Buck: Well, it was exactly the same. It was weird, it is weird. I mean this first show in Rotterdam I was singing “Evil MF from Tennessee” and I usually let the crowd say “Tennessee”, and I’m in Rotterdam and I was like, okay, and just stopped, boom, and sure enough I heard “Tennessee”!
Cindy: So your fan base is strong in Europe?
Joe Buck: Well I’m not trying to be different, it’s just the way it comes out. I mean, obviously they’re looking for something different and you know there’s not too many places for them to get something like that I guess. It was amazing. I’m going back over there in the fall for about two months.
Cindy: I’ve noticed so many bands booking Europe dates on their tour schedules. It seems like a popular thing to do, I guess it always has been.
Joe Buck: Well, I don’t book the shows, I just let people know where I am, so it’s good because I just deal with people. We’re not getting in touch with clubs, it’s not like that. I just want to go where the people want me to come. I’m just excited about having a show. The best shows are when you get your local bands together and there’s people and you have a party. I only care about the people who are there.
Cindy: We may not have had a huge crowd for you last year when you played here, but everyone was there for you. And what I thought was so special was you telling everyone to come stand by you as close as they could, and they did for the whole show, and that was a very different experience. It made me feel like I was part of your performance. It was very memorable for me.
Joe Buck: Well, I mean, it’s all about the people. I mean, I’m playing for them, you know, so yeah, the whole getting up close thing is like it takes all of us to make that show happen. The energy has to come from all of us and yeah, that’s not like most shows.
In most shows the band comes on and the people stare at them, and they go through the show, and they go off stage, you know? That’s not what I’m doing.
Cindy: You are well known in The Legendary Shack Shakers. Were there bands before that? What was the beginning for you as a performer?
Joe Buck: I’ve been in bands my whole life. There have been a zillion other bands. I had success with this band named Gringo back in the early 90’s. I mean, you know, drinkin’ and druggin’ ruined it, but I was doing shit then, in rock bands from late ’79 on and I was in all these punk bands in the beginning. I mean, I was from a farm in Missouri, so when I was a kid growing up there was Bocephus, Van Halen, The Cars, but when I left the farm it was like I immediately found punk. You know, it was like 3 years after the fact, but it was late 1979, it wasn’t 1977, but it was still new enough to where I said, okay, and played in punk bands.
When I was 21, I think I heard Hank Williams on a commercial or something and it was usually someone else doing his songs, really badly. Then I met a great friend of mine, Jerry Bender, who I owe a debt of gratitude to. He was the produce guy at the Piggly Wiggly and lived around the corner from me. I’d have my little punk rock parties and he was my neighbor, just lived right around the corner, and one day he said “your music sucks, I’m bringing my own music”. So he brought over Hank Williams 40 Greatest Hits and you know, it changed my life. Jerry Bender! And that was in the early 80’s. I still played in punk bands until 1994 just because I knew that playing country takes skill and time so I worked on it all those years, but I still played in punk bands to get by.
But my band Gringo got a bunch of great reviews. I thought I was trying to be Hank Williams. I was just so strung out and drunk that I was just kind of lost in that, but those were great records, I was in great bands, but I just ruined it, just played too hard.
Cindy: How do you describe the type of music you play and especially the way you play in your solo act?
Joe Buck: I have to play every song as hard as I can. I mean, that’s the first thing people always come up to me and hug me after a show and say “Oh my God” because I’m soaking wet. Not just a little wet, I mean like somebody just dumped a bunch of water on me. And that’s because, yeah, I play every song as hard as I can. It’s all rooted in old hillbilly music and blues. I’m not doing anything new, I mean, maybe the approach is about something different.
Cindy: Where does all the aggression come from?
Joe Buck: Because I’m pissed off, man. I’m pissed at the way people treat each other, I’m pissed at all the cold blooded greed. I’m so sick of all the bullshit in the world. There’s so much to go around, man. I’m pissed off at mass communication. I’m pissed off at Nashville, you know, as a kid growing up on a farm, instead of having somebody from my area on the radio singing to me, for me, like Hank Williams would’ve been, no, I got fu#@ing Barbara Mandrell. The worst bullshit in the world. So that music didn’t speak to me. I hated that music. I mean, openly as a kid I said I hated country music, so it made me hate where I was from. I had issues and I had to get them out.
I left Nashville and moved to Western Kentucky, just over the border. The people in Nashville were great, it’s the music industry that polluted a whole generation of good country kids. That’s why they’re listening to Fifty Cent right now. They’re adopting a culture that has nothing to do with them. You have to know where you’re from to know where you’re going.
Cindy: I heard you had a show here about a year ago with the infamous Cuz’n Wildweed and the Vapor Rhinos. Something happened at the club, Poes Pub, can you fill us in?
Joe Buck: The Vapor Rhinos had a fog machine that you could’ve put in an arena. So we saw smoke coming out of the club from our RV. Kathy and I looked and there was all this smoke billowing out from the club. You couldn’t see inside the club. The club was completely filled with smoke and it was billowing out the doors. It was like the place was burning down. So we’re running out of the RV to see what’s going on and the Vapor Rhinos were still playing on stage. You couldn’t even see them. It was the funniest thing I’ve ever seen in my life. It ran everybody out of the bar, which was even more genius. I was like, yeah, they’ll remember that show forever.
Cindy: What was it like performing with Cuz’n Wildweed?
Joe Buck: Well, I’m glad that Cuz’n Wildweed is here on this planet. What can I say, you rarely meet somebody that has a giving soul, because the majority of us are cancerous, lecherous thieves. So to find somebody like Cuz’n shows me that good people are out there and it gives me hope, otherwise I’d blow my brains out! We’re in this thing for the long haul, and that’s what we need, are people that give a shit.
I promise I will always show up to play as hard as I possibly can. I don’t care if it’s the 20th show of 20 shows in a row, you’re gonna get the same show. You have to give if you’re an artist. It’s the truest thing. And I only learned that from losing everything and being pummeled by everything. Then I realized I didn’t need anything. The only things I need are the things I can carry inside of me.
Cindy: Have there been any spiritual influences or experiences that have helped guide you to where you are now?
Joe Buck: All I need is to not feel worthless, because I was. So, by working so much and playing, those things make me feel good. If I feel something or smile or rock out, whatever it is, then I did something that made somebody feel something, so being able to give them whatever that is and by them feeling something, then I don’t feel worthless. So it’s really as simple as that.
What changed, I have no idea man. It’s like one day, I just can’t explain it. I was almost dead, so I really don’t know. It’s weird too because the dope, I’m around it all the time. It’s so funny. It’s like, here’s the funniest part about your addiction, here’s your job and you’re gonna be surrounded by it and that’s the best way to have it. Keep your enemies close, man. But I never wanted it, and it’s like I said, twenty years of full on crazy and then one day just like, I can’t explain it. I did think I had a dream kind of thing that was like, I gave up all the drugs and pills, it doesn’t matter what it is, it’s all the same thing, so it’s like, if you give up one thing, all the rest of the things that you need in your life will bear themselves.
I was like, man, I’m not stupid, this sounds like a pretty good deal. And that’s pretty much how it worked out. I don’t judge anybody by what they do or what road they’re going down. Everybody’s got to live their own life. And as awful as it was, because there is no glamour in it, you know, it’s just pathetic. I don’t look back on any of this stuff fondly, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m fighting fire with fire, filth with filth, decease with decease.
Cindy: You played with Hank III for years. To anyone that would seem like a perpetual party. How long did the party last before you had enough?
Joe Buck: Well I never had enough of it. That thing was a pro gig man. Yeah, we had fun but we rocked every night, I mean everybody was f@#ked up, you know, you can’t do that shit, you have to almost be an athlete. Yeah, it’s fun, but I mean….there were several things like, this thing now is steady work, and that gives me peace of mind.
Cindy: Your fans now know about the split with you and Hank III. Do you mind telling us what happened?
Joe Buck: First of all, he (Hank III) is a solo artist. I was just a side guy. I mean, he’s had a zillion guys in his band. I mean, it’s about the songs. I loved every minute of that, but I started working (solo) after we played Nashville on Thanksgiving of 2007 and when I started doing this no tours (with Hank III) were booked, so I kept working. You know, and he went on. So that’s what happened, there was no “split”. There was no big decision made, I just never heard from him. So he got another bass player and I was like, okay, I’ll keep touring.
Cindy: Are you happier as a solo artist?
Joe Buck: I’ve always written and played, besides Hank III, I always wrote and sang the songs, so I mean, because I played with him for so long, sure I miss that, but not for the reasons you think. It’s like, I miss my friend. But this thing that I’m doing, you said it, it’s really important and it’s growing like crazy, and yes, when you’re a side guy, you don’t know what’s going on, you know? This way works for me. It gives me huge peace of mind. And then, I love my girlfriend. We’re getting married as soon as I can pull off the road long enough!
Cindy: What’s next for Joe Buck? Are there any new releases we can get excited about?
Joe Buck: I’m recording and I’ll have a new release out by July. I’ll have it ready for the tour with Wayne (Hancock). Oh yeah, Wayne Hancock and Joe Buck are gonna f@#ck up the West Coast man!!!
Cindy: What more really needs to said?
Joe Buck will be playing The Triple on May 12, 2009
You can visit Joe Buck’s website: www.joebuckyourself.com
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Eric Margan And The Red Lions
by ERIC DE FONTENAY
New York-based indie-chamber rock musicians, Eric Margan & the Red Lions, present their debut release Midnight Book (March 17, 2009/Self-Released). Drawing from years of classical training and a personal devotion to modern jazz and classic rock, the talented songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/front man, Eric Margan, makes an original and sophisticated entrance with an impressive collection of 12 incredible tracks in Midnight Book.
The debut album for 22-year-old Margan resonates as a somber, theatrical novel - complete with love, tragedy, heartbreak, and revival. Midnight Book, as the title might imply, is best experienced from "cover to cover." Midnight Book delivers stellar and distinctive compositions, augmented by ensnaring and intriguing lyrical poetry, leading the listener into an introspective musical journey.
The album opens with "An Ocean Blue", a swirling, seductive tapestry of orchestral grandeur, seemingly emerging from the darkest depths of the piano and sets the stage for a colossal, metaphor-laden song cycle. As the pages of Midnight Book turn, the love story that began so triumphantly begins to unravel in Margan's "A Speckled Mind." It is here that Margan displays the delicate touch of an impressionist painter, through the juxtaposition of orchestral strings combined with a powerful yet poignant drum and bass polyrhythm.
The album's standout "Old Man River" is the turning point in the story, full of grandiose and massively cinematic crescendo. Margan's colorful plot thickens to a soaring climax, telling a story of an estranged marriage - complete with twists, turns, murder and revenge.
Margan appropriately concludes his heavy narrative with the relatively bare instrumentation of strings, piano, voice and guitar. The last notes are imminent, chords that are prepared to leave their final impression - but not without a last fighting chance.
Born and raised in Columbia County of Upstate New York, Eric Margan's musical endeavors started at just nine years old when he began studying flute. It was when he turned 14 that the hobby had become a potential career. He began treading new waters with the formation of his first band - a three-piece rock group in which he was a co-songwriter, bassist, and singer. Margan furthered his bass skills by participating in various jazz ensembles and combos throughout his high school years. Furthering his music studies, he brought together his classical training with his passion for modern rock and live performance with the addition of the talented musicians that make up the Red Lions.
A stellar line-up of musicians was assembled to augment Margan's music on stage, including drummer Jim Bertini, bassists Scott Kellerhouse and Vince Chiarito, keyboardist Zachary Seman and guitarist/flutist/vocalist Johanna Warren. Live performances and Midnight Book also feature various string, woodwind and brass players.
Eric Margan and the Red Lions are rapidly earning the respect and admiration of fans and bands alike, from opening for such acts as the Benevento Russo Duo and L.A.-based Bittersweet, to recording sessions with Pete Seeger and Richie Havens, as well as playing a multitude of shows in the Northeastern United States.
What critics have been saying about Eric Margan and the Red Lions:
"There are a number of acts that are currently creating music right now that I would call good, but I would have to downgrade them to "passable" just so I could get the proper amount of distance to the "great" that I would assess to Eric Margan & The Red Lions. "Midnight Book" should be seen as a "must-have" album…"-NeuFutur Magazine
"Elegant, sophisticated and refreshingly open-hearted, singer-guitarist Margan pens wonderfully literate and melodically inventive songs that he has orchestrated for a most unusual but oh-so effective ensemble of musicians featuring drums, bass, keyboards, violin, cello, clarinet and flute. This is Chamber music for the 21st Century, and it simply sparkles." -Greg Haymes, The Times Union
"Eric Margan's songs and aesthetic are from another time: His musical influences seem drawn entirely from before he was born. His jazz-leaning, ornate, orchestral pop is unlike anything that's come out of the Capital Region in as long as we can remember, and the band's busy gig schedule has amassed them a devoted, even defensive, fan base. Trust us: This band will be going places." -John Brodeur, Metroland
Eric Margan and the Red Lions will begin touring this spring in support of Midnight Book. The confirmed list of shows is as follows:
February 13, The College of Saint Rose, Albany, NY February 21, (PRE-CD RELEASE SHOW) The Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY March 5, Muddy Cup, Albany, NY March 13, (CD RELEASE SHOW) Valentines, Albany, NY March 17, Banjo Jims, New York, NY March 18-22, SXSW Music Festival, Austin, TX March 30, The Living Room, New York, NY April 3, Valentines Upstairs, Albany, NY April 4, Bard College, Annadale-on-Hudson, NY
More dates will be released at Eric Margan
Eric Margan MP3
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
New York-based indie-chamber rock musicians, Eric Margan & the Red Lions, present their debut release Midnight Book (March 17, 2009/Self-Released). Drawing from years of classical training and a personal devotion to modern jazz and classic rock, the talented songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/front man, Eric Margan, makes an original and sophisticated entrance with an impressive collection of 12 incredible tracks in Midnight Book.
The debut album for 22-year-old Margan resonates as a somber, theatrical novel - complete with love, tragedy, heartbreak, and revival. Midnight Book, as the title might imply, is best experienced from "cover to cover." Midnight Book delivers stellar and distinctive compositions, augmented by ensnaring and intriguing lyrical poetry, leading the listener into an introspective musical journey.
The album opens with "An Ocean Blue", a swirling, seductive tapestry of orchestral grandeur, seemingly emerging from the darkest depths of the piano and sets the stage for a colossal, metaphor-laden song cycle. As the pages of Midnight Book turn, the love story that began so triumphantly begins to unravel in Margan's "A Speckled Mind." It is here that Margan displays the delicate touch of an impressionist painter, through the juxtaposition of orchestral strings combined with a powerful yet poignant drum and bass polyrhythm.
The album's standout "Old Man River" is the turning point in the story, full of grandiose and massively cinematic crescendo. Margan's colorful plot thickens to a soaring climax, telling a story of an estranged marriage - complete with twists, turns, murder and revenge.
Margan appropriately concludes his heavy narrative with the relatively bare instrumentation of strings, piano, voice and guitar. The last notes are imminent, chords that are prepared to leave their final impression - but not without a last fighting chance.
Born and raised in Columbia County of Upstate New York, Eric Margan's musical endeavors started at just nine years old when he began studying flute. It was when he turned 14 that the hobby had become a potential career. He began treading new waters with the formation of his first band - a three-piece rock group in which he was a co-songwriter, bassist, and singer. Margan furthered his bass skills by participating in various jazz ensembles and combos throughout his high school years. Furthering his music studies, he brought together his classical training with his passion for modern rock and live performance with the addition of the talented musicians that make up the Red Lions.
A stellar line-up of musicians was assembled to augment Margan's music on stage, including drummer Jim Bertini, bassists Scott Kellerhouse and Vince Chiarito, keyboardist Zachary Seman and guitarist/flutist/vocalist Johanna Warren. Live performances and Midnight Book also feature various string, woodwind and brass players.
Eric Margan and the Red Lions are rapidly earning the respect and admiration of fans and bands alike, from opening for such acts as the Benevento Russo Duo and L.A.-based Bittersweet, to recording sessions with Pete Seeger and Richie Havens, as well as playing a multitude of shows in the Northeastern United States.
What critics have been saying about Eric Margan and the Red Lions:
"There are a number of acts that are currently creating music right now that I would call good, but I would have to downgrade them to "passable" just so I could get the proper amount of distance to the "great" that I would assess to Eric Margan & The Red Lions. "Midnight Book" should be seen as a "must-have" album…"-NeuFutur Magazine
"Elegant, sophisticated and refreshingly open-hearted, singer-guitarist Margan pens wonderfully literate and melodically inventive songs that he has orchestrated for a most unusual but oh-so effective ensemble of musicians featuring drums, bass, keyboards, violin, cello, clarinet and flute. This is Chamber music for the 21st Century, and it simply sparkles." -Greg Haymes, The Times Union
"Eric Margan's songs and aesthetic are from another time: His musical influences seem drawn entirely from before he was born. His jazz-leaning, ornate, orchestral pop is unlike anything that's come out of the Capital Region in as long as we can remember, and the band's busy gig schedule has amassed them a devoted, even defensive, fan base. Trust us: This band will be going places." -John Brodeur, Metroland
Eric Margan and the Red Lions will begin touring this spring in support of Midnight Book. The confirmed list of shows is as follows:
February 13, The College of Saint Rose, Albany, NY February 21, (PRE-CD RELEASE SHOW) The Bowery Poetry Club, New York, NY March 5, Muddy Cup, Albany, NY March 13, (CD RELEASE SHOW) Valentines, Albany, NY March 17, Banjo Jims, New York, NY March 18-22, SXSW Music Festival, Austin, TX March 30, The Living Room, New York, NY April 3, Valentines Upstairs, Albany, NY April 4, Bard College, Annadale-on-Hudson, NY
More dates will be released at Eric Margan
Eric Margan MP3
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Monday, March 9, 2009
GORGEOUS & UNKNOWN HINSON
GORGEOUS & UNKNOWN HINSON @ CANAL CLUB
It had been many years since I had been to the Canal Club and I decided to attend a show I wasn’t familiar with but I thought the subject matter would be interesting to review. At the time the only act I knew was performing that night was Unknown Hinson. I had never had the pleasure of attending any of Mr. Hinson’s shows, but many of my friends never miss him when he is in town so I decided to find out what all the fuss was about. Much to my surprise, when I walked in the door I heard familiar music and saw familiar faces on the stage during sound check. “Unknown” to me, my friends Gorgeous were opening for Unknown Hinson and suddenly the overpriced $16.50 tickets weren’t so offensive.
Gorgeous, former members of Chrome Daddy Disco, has always been in my opinion the best rockabilly/psychobilly band in Richmond, or anywhere for that matter. I have been going to their shows for well over ten years and still can’t sit still when I hear them play. Sean McClain is in my opinion the best front man on a stage. If you are looking for entertainment, look no further. Sean delivers his cocky one liners and rants along with the most passionate covers, “King Creole”, “Muleskinner Blues”, and the best of the best, “Viva Las Vegas”, plus original songs like “Bloody Valentine”, that cannot be duplicated. Many bands have tried but failed. This band is the real deal down to Jim’s pink paisley James Burton style guitar, to the solid bass and drums that pull everything together and creates the “Sonic Sound” that is the infectious Gorgeous groove. Gorgeous doesn’t play out very often, so seeing them was a real treat and I’m always looking forward to their next show. Thanks guys for giving Elvistra another chance to shake, rattle and roll!
Band Members for Gorgeous:
Sean McClain: vocals, ranting
Jim Wark: Guitar
Greg Wetherford: Drums
Kyle Christian: Bass
The main act, Unknown Hinson, the King of the Country Western Troubadours from Charlotte, NC was not the honky tonk guitar picker I assumed he was. His music is described as country/western/metal/psychobilly/cow punk. What I heard was a very talented blues oriented guitar player with quirky original songs like “Lingerie”, BarbieQ”, and “Alkyhol Withdrawl” which gives him his unique persona, and incredible covers by Hendrix and even Alice Cooper., which won me over immediately.
Unknown Hinson is not just a weird guy with a scary face, although I still can’t figure out how none of his makeup melted during the show. The man barely broke a sweat, very cool indeed. The crowd loved him and it was clear Unknown Hinson has a strong fan base in Richmond, and now I understand why. After the show Mr. Hinson greeted his fans, signed autographs and took pictures with them. He clearly appreciates his followers and treats them well.
In conclusion, the night was filled with the “Unknown”, but it was a top notch show that should’ve had a much bigger crowd to bear witness.
Be sure to check out Unknown Hinson’s CD “Target Practice”
Band website: Unknown Hinson
Band Members for Unknown Hinson:
Unknown Hinson: vocals, guitar
Roger “Tiny” Kohrs: Bass
Frank “The Tank” Sorrell: Percussion
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
It had been many years since I had been to the Canal Club and I decided to attend a show I wasn’t familiar with but I thought the subject matter would be interesting to review. At the time the only act I knew was performing that night was Unknown Hinson. I had never had the pleasure of attending any of Mr. Hinson’s shows, but many of my friends never miss him when he is in town so I decided to find out what all the fuss was about. Much to my surprise, when I walked in the door I heard familiar music and saw familiar faces on the stage during sound check. “Unknown” to me, my friends Gorgeous were opening for Unknown Hinson and suddenly the overpriced $16.50 tickets weren’t so offensive.
Gorgeous, former members of Chrome Daddy Disco, has always been in my opinion the best rockabilly/psychobilly band in Richmond, or anywhere for that matter. I have been going to their shows for well over ten years and still can’t sit still when I hear them play. Sean McClain is in my opinion the best front man on a stage. If you are looking for entertainment, look no further. Sean delivers his cocky one liners and rants along with the most passionate covers, “King Creole”, “Muleskinner Blues”, and the best of the best, “Viva Las Vegas”, plus original songs like “Bloody Valentine”, that cannot be duplicated. Many bands have tried but failed. This band is the real deal down to Jim’s pink paisley James Burton style guitar, to the solid bass and drums that pull everything together and creates the “Sonic Sound” that is the infectious Gorgeous groove. Gorgeous doesn’t play out very often, so seeing them was a real treat and I’m always looking forward to their next show. Thanks guys for giving Elvistra another chance to shake, rattle and roll!
Band Members for Gorgeous:
Sean McClain: vocals, ranting
Jim Wark: Guitar
Greg Wetherford: Drums
Kyle Christian: Bass
The main act, Unknown Hinson, the King of the Country Western Troubadours from Charlotte, NC was not the honky tonk guitar picker I assumed he was. His music is described as country/western/metal/psychobilly/cow punk. What I heard was a very talented blues oriented guitar player with quirky original songs like “Lingerie”, BarbieQ”, and “Alkyhol Withdrawl” which gives him his unique persona, and incredible covers by Hendrix and even Alice Cooper., which won me over immediately.
Unknown Hinson is not just a weird guy with a scary face, although I still can’t figure out how none of his makeup melted during the show. The man barely broke a sweat, very cool indeed. The crowd loved him and it was clear Unknown Hinson has a strong fan base in Richmond, and now I understand why. After the show Mr. Hinson greeted his fans, signed autographs and took pictures with them. He clearly appreciates his followers and treats them well.
In conclusion, the night was filled with the “Unknown”, but it was a top notch show that should’ve had a much bigger crowd to bear witness.
Be sure to check out Unknown Hinson’s CD “Target Practice”
Band website: Unknown Hinson
Band Members for Unknown Hinson:
Unknown Hinson: vocals, guitar
Roger “Tiny” Kohrs: Bass
Frank “The Tank” Sorrell: Percussion
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Video Review for Lamb of God "Set to Fail"
ON THE SET OF “SET TO FAIL”
Feb. 25, 2009
On the Set of "Set to Fail"
Author - Ayne Bales
“We need fans who are wiling to get slammed around for 12 hours in Richmond, VA on January 9.”
This was the casting call put out by RVA’s Lamb of God for their first video off the new album Wrath. They weren’t kidding either. Not only was this an extraordinary experience for the seventy or so friends and fans packed into the third floor of Sound of Music Studios, it was an exercise in endurance. Go find the largest clothes dryer you can. Put yourself, your iPod cranked as loud as it will go, a few random blunt objects (to simulate elbows and fists), and three or four pairs of sweaty gym socks into this dryer. Turn the dryer on, listen to the same song for eight hours, and you’ll start to have an idea what it was like to be in “Set to Fail”. The thing you’ll be missing is how much freaking fun it was.
Initially I figured this would be a ‘live’ shoot, with the band on a stage and the crowd in front. Instead we walked into a room with nothing but Chris’s drums on a low riser, a couple of prop amps, and plain white lighting. We were about to get up close and personal with one of the hottest metal acts out there today.
Our instructions amounted to “mosh, don’t look directly into the camera, and try not to hurt the band members”.
Over the next eight hours we head-banged, slammed, crowd surfed, and generally wreaked havoc. I saw Willie accidentally give someone a black eye with his guitar. Randy broke three of my toes. We were having too much fun to care. The song absolutely rocked. If you haven’t heard it yet you need to go directly to the closest record store and pick up a copy of Wrath – you won’t be disappointed. This was a low budget shoot with only one camera, and I was impressed with not only the crowd but the video crew – they did an amazing job.
Despite the close quarters and rather diverse crowd no one lost their cool, if someone went down twenty hands were there picking them up. This may have been due in part to another email sent to everyone invited to the shoot… “Don’t be a dick. Lamb of God will think you’re lame if you act like a dick.”
During our downtime I met fans from as far away as Dallas and Chicago. That’s dedication. The band members and crew were extremely gracious and friendly, as they always are. (Does Willie ever stop smiling?) Together the band and the fans made this a day no one there will soon forget.
How often do you get to spend the day with your favorite band AND get to be in one of their videos? Whether you see them in the grocery store on a regular basis or only on television, it was honor to participate.
The end result is a video just as raw and gritty as the song itself. “Set to Fail” will not disappoint fans. In typical Lamb of God fashion it sounds like nothing they’ve done before, and the advances in musicianship and vocals are obvious. The new album is nothing short of amazing, even returning to the bands original instrumental roots on the opening track “The Passing”. The hometown boys continue to not only be some of the nicest guys in the business; they continue to be the best at what they do – making pure American metal.
Check out the bands MySpace Page for more!
Photo Credits – Ayne Bales and James Taylor
***************************************
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Feb. 25, 2009
On the Set of "Set to Fail"
Author - Ayne Bales
“We need fans who are wiling to get slammed around for 12 hours in Richmond, VA on January 9.”
This was the casting call put out by RVA’s Lamb of God for their first video off the new album Wrath. They weren’t kidding either. Not only was this an extraordinary experience for the seventy or so friends and fans packed into the third floor of Sound of Music Studios, it was an exercise in endurance. Go find the largest clothes dryer you can. Put yourself, your iPod cranked as loud as it will go, a few random blunt objects (to simulate elbows and fists), and three or four pairs of sweaty gym socks into this dryer. Turn the dryer on, listen to the same song for eight hours, and you’ll start to have an idea what it was like to be in “Set to Fail”. The thing you’ll be missing is how much freaking fun it was.
Initially I figured this would be a ‘live’ shoot, with the band on a stage and the crowd in front. Instead we walked into a room with nothing but Chris’s drums on a low riser, a couple of prop amps, and plain white lighting. We were about to get up close and personal with one of the hottest metal acts out there today.
Our instructions amounted to “mosh, don’t look directly into the camera, and try not to hurt the band members”. Over the next eight hours we head-banged, slammed, crowd surfed, and generally wreaked havoc. I saw Willie accidentally give someone a black eye with his guitar. Randy broke three of my toes. We were having too much fun to care. The song absolutely rocked. If you haven’t heard it yet you need to go directly to the closest record store and pick up a copy of Wrath – you won’t be disappointed. This was a low budget shoot with only one camera, and I was impressed with not only the crowd but the video crew – they did an amazing job.
Despite the close quarters and rather diverse crowd no one lost their cool, if someone went down twenty hands were there picking them up. This may have been due in part to another email sent to everyone invited to the shoot… “Don’t be a dick. Lamb of God will think you’re lame if you act like a dick.” During our downtime I met fans from as far away as Dallas and Chicago. That’s dedication. The band members and crew were extremely gracious and friendly, as they always are. (Does Willie ever stop smiling?) Together the band and the fans made this a day no one there will soon forget.
How often do you get to spend the day with your favorite band AND get to be in one of their videos? Whether you see them in the grocery store on a regular basis or only on television, it was honor to participate. The end result is a video just as raw and gritty as the song itself. “Set to Fail” will not disappoint fans. In typical Lamb of God fashion it sounds like nothing they’ve done before, and the advances in musicianship and vocals are obvious. The new album is nothing short of amazing, even returning to the bands original instrumental roots on the opening track “The Passing”. The hometown boys continue to not only be some of the nicest guys in the business; they continue to be the best at what they do – making pure American metal.
Check out the bands MySpace Page for more!
Photo Credits – Ayne Bales and James Taylor
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
BO-STEVENS & GOJIRA-X AT WONDERLAND
THE BO-STEVENS & GOJIRA-X AT WONDERLAND 1/7/09
CRUMPS BIG BIRTHDAY BASH
BY CINDY JOHNSON
Tonight takes us to Wonderland. Just when I thought my “bottom dweller” days were past me, they pull me back in! Shockoe Bottom is still the inconvenient pain it’s always been, but parking aside, this was a special occasion. A double birthday celebration for my friends Sarah and Crump, singer for Gojira-X.
The bar quickly began to fill with many friends and fans of both bands. The Bo-Stevens are a band from Winston-Salem, NC and are local favorites in the RVA area. As I have been known to repeat, I am a sucker for an upright bass and I was in for a double treat. Not only did the Bo-Stevens have an upright bass player named Billie, but Billie is a badass lady who knows how to slap the crap out of a bass. Along with Billie, there is Jeff Shu who plays the pedal steel guitar and mandolin, which made this band a bit of a dream come true for an authentic music lover as myself.
The band has gone through lineup changes since they started, but seem to play as if they’ve been together for years. The songs are country for the most part, with just a hint of rockabilly to make it danceable. With songs like “Honky Tonk Saturday Night”, “Lace”, “I’m Over You”, and “12 Ounces” you get to hear plenty of drinking songs that resulted in a definite crowd pleaser. This was my first Bo-Stevens show and I hope to see them again soon , hopefully at Cash Bash, a festival they are hosting February 27th & 28th in Winston-Salem playing along with Gojira-X and other bands.
To read more about The Bo-Stevens, visit their website: www.thebostevens.com
Band Members: Richard Boyd – vocals, guitar
Gregg Bell – guitar
Jeff Shu – vocals, pedal steel guitar, mandolin
Billie Feather – upright bass
The Rev. Douglas Hawkins – drums
After the Bo-Stevens left the stage, all normalcy went out the window. The next band, Gojira-X, describes their sound as “a strange and unique bland of hardcore, metal, punk and surf, with a heavy dose of Ed Wood, Roger Corman and John Waters, Etc.” Are you interested yet? The funny thing is the bands description of themselves is pretty accurate. It is definitely a show you find yourself participating in. But for an Elvis lover like me, they had me at “Suspicious Minds” and “Don’t Be Cruel”. They played the Elvis card and it was done in perfect taste and obvious love for the King. But along with Elvis and other covers, there were the bands original material with titles “Cheese”, “One Hot Mess”, “It Lives”, etc. focusing mostly on women and what to do with them. There was a lot of dancing, dancing on booth ledges, and general good times had by all. It was a very fun show and I think Crump is my new front man to beat, and that’s saying a mouthful!
To read more about Gojira-X visit their website: Gojira-X
Band Members: Crumpy C – lead vocals
Dirk Laguna – bass
Eddie McTastic – lead guitar
Crash Rockingham - keyboards
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
CRUMPS BIG BIRTHDAY BASH
BY CINDY JOHNSON
Tonight takes us to Wonderland. Just when I thought my “bottom dweller” days were past me, they pull me back in! Shockoe Bottom is still the inconvenient pain it’s always been, but parking aside, this was a special occasion. A double birthday celebration for my friends Sarah and Crump, singer for Gojira-X.
The bar quickly began to fill with many friends and fans of both bands. The Bo-Stevens are a band from Winston-Salem, NC and are local favorites in the RVA area. As I have been known to repeat, I am a sucker for an upright bass and I was in for a double treat. Not only did the Bo-Stevens have an upright bass player named Billie, but Billie is a badass lady who knows how to slap the crap out of a bass. Along with Billie, there is Jeff Shu who plays the pedal steel guitar and mandolin, which made this band a bit of a dream come true for an authentic music lover as myself.
The band has gone through lineup changes since they started, but seem to play as if they’ve been together for years. The songs are country for the most part, with just a hint of rockabilly to make it danceable. With songs like “Honky Tonk Saturday Night”, “Lace”, “I’m Over You”, and “12 Ounces” you get to hear plenty of drinking songs that resulted in a definite crowd pleaser. This was my first Bo-Stevens show and I hope to see them again soon , hopefully at Cash Bash, a festival they are hosting February 27th & 28th in Winston-Salem playing along with Gojira-X and other bands.
To read more about The Bo-Stevens, visit their website: www.thebostevens.com
Band Members: Richard Boyd – vocals, guitar
Gregg Bell – guitar
Jeff Shu – vocals, pedal steel guitar, mandolin
Billie Feather – upright bass
The Rev. Douglas Hawkins – drums
After the Bo-Stevens left the stage, all normalcy went out the window. The next band, Gojira-X, describes their sound as “a strange and unique bland of hardcore, metal, punk and surf, with a heavy dose of Ed Wood, Roger Corman and John Waters, Etc.” Are you interested yet? The funny thing is the bands description of themselves is pretty accurate. It is definitely a show you find yourself participating in. But for an Elvis lover like me, they had me at “Suspicious Minds” and “Don’t Be Cruel”. They played the Elvis card and it was done in perfect taste and obvious love for the King. But along with Elvis and other covers, there were the bands original material with titles “Cheese”, “One Hot Mess”, “It Lives”, etc. focusing mostly on women and what to do with them. There was a lot of dancing, dancing on booth ledges, and general good times had by all. It was a very fun show and I think Crump is my new front man to beat, and that’s saying a mouthful!
To read more about Gojira-X visit their website: Gojira-X
Band Members: Crumpy C – lead vocals
Dirk Laguna – bass
Eddie McTastic – lead guitar
Crash Rockingham - keyboards
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
GRANDPA EDDIES BBQ - Venue Review
GRANDPA EDDIES BBQ
11129 THREE CHOPT ROAD
RICHMOND, VA 23233
804-270-7427
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
Do you like Barbeque? Do you like live music? Grandpa Eddies, located in the West End offers the best of the two. On Friday and Saturday nights, for no cover charge, you can watch live bands from 8:30 pm to around midnight.
The restaurant caters to down home Southern cooking including fried okra, three types of cole slaw to go with the three types of barbeque, and the best brisket I have ever eaten.
The bands that have played Grandpa Eddies range from rockabilly to blues to country and are all appropriate for the whole family, something which is very important to the owner of Grandpa Eddies, proving you can have G-rated fun, along with impressive draft beer.
So bring your appetite with you or you will wish you had because Grandpa Eddies is all about family, food, live music and fun!
GRANDPA EDDIES FEBRUARY 2009 CALENDAR
Feb 6 2009 8:30P
The Jangling Reinharts Richmond, Virginia
Feb 7 2009 8:30P
The Great Unknowns Richmond, Virginia
Feb 13 2009 8:30P
Janet Martin Trio Richmond, Virginia
Feb 14 2009 8:30P
Happy Valentines Day! Come try the BBQupid Special! Richmond, Virginia
Feb 20 2009 8:30P
The Taters Richmond, Virginia
Feb 21 2009 8:30P
Sister Sweet Richmond, Virginia
Feb 27 2009 8:30P
The Atkinsons Richmond, Virginia
Feb 28 2009 8:30P
Mo Debree Richmond, Virginia
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
11129 THREE CHOPT ROAD
RICHMOND, VA 23233
804-270-7427
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
Do you like Barbeque? Do you like live music? Grandpa Eddies, located in the West End offers the best of the two. On Friday and Saturday nights, for no cover charge, you can watch live bands from 8:30 pm to around midnight.
The restaurant caters to down home Southern cooking including fried okra, three types of cole slaw to go with the three types of barbeque, and the best brisket I have ever eaten.
The bands that have played Grandpa Eddies range from rockabilly to blues to country and are all appropriate for the whole family, something which is very important to the owner of Grandpa Eddies, proving you can have G-rated fun, along with impressive draft beer.
So bring your appetite with you or you will wish you had because Grandpa Eddies is all about family, food, live music and fun!
GRANDPA EDDIES FEBRUARY 2009 CALENDAR
Feb 6 2009 8:30P
The Jangling Reinharts Richmond, Virginia
Feb 7 2009 8:30P
The Great Unknowns Richmond, Virginia
Feb 13 2009 8:30P
Janet Martin Trio Richmond, Virginia
Feb 14 2009 8:30P
Happy Valentines Day! Come try the BBQupid Special! Richmond, Virginia
Feb 20 2009 8:30P
The Taters Richmond, Virginia
Feb 21 2009 8:30P
Sister Sweet Richmond, Virginia
Feb 27 2009 8:30P
The Atkinsons Richmond, Virginia
Feb 28 2009 8:30P
Mo Debree Richmond, Virginia
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
GET LOST WITH AMERICANA
THE LOST SOULS & THE MUCKRAKES @ THE TRIPLE 1/30/09
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
I decided to change my pace a little and commit to an evening of a wildly growing brand of music called “Americana”. It’s a little folk, a little country with some bluegrass mixed in for flavor. I keep hearing this type of sound called “roots” music, but to me, it’s all relative to keeping it real. No gimmicks, no weird outfits, just good music from yesterday and today. That set the pace throughout the evening with two very talented and spirited bands – one a duo, the other a small army.
Gray Gurkin and the Lost Souls started off the evening. They were missing one Lost Soul reducing them to a duo with their drummer, Chip Farnsworth, and singer, guitarist, Gray Gurkin, who has carved out quite a name for himself as a solo artist, but he obviously thrives with his band, no matter how small.
The Lost Souls are very professional and know how to put on a show. Gray Gurkin interacts with the audience and makes them feel appreciated. The originals songs are both upbeat and spirited, even the sad ones. Gray Gurkin has a powerful voice and he’s not afraid to use it, coupled with that Dwight Yokam bounce when he plays, and you have a great front man and a wonderful sounding band. All the members of The Lost Souls are from Virginia and have played with many other successful bands through the years and it shows. The bands original songs include “Matchbox”, “Wildflower”, and “Sunday Morning”.
Band Members:
Gray Gurkin: Lead vocals, guitar
Chip Farnsworth: Drums
Turtle: Bass and backing vocals
Website: The Lost Souls and Gray Gurkin
The Muckrakes took the stage by storm a while later and I could barely believe the head count on that stage. The band has 7 current members who all play a variety of different instruments, including my personal favorite, the lap steel guitar and rub board. It gave the band personality to play such vibrant instruments and the combination of harmonies and blend of music swept you away to another time when things were simple. I think this type of music is really needed right now to get our priorities back in line and see the simple beauty in things. That’s what this music gives you, simple beauty, and I was definitely in need of some.
The Muckrakes formed in October of 2008 in Newport News, VA after some lineup changes have their current band. Their songs include “Young and Crazy”, “What Does She Have to Say” and “Until They’re Gone”.
Band Members:
Melissa Troutman: vocals
Matt Minguez – violin
Jon Owings – vocals, mandolin, banjo
Dave Jackson – drums
Cory Nealon – Lap steel guitar, dobro guitar
Spider Turner – guitar
Billy Englan - bass
Website: The Muckrakes
The Muckrakes Pics
The Lost Souls Pics
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
I decided to change my pace a little and commit to an evening of a wildly growing brand of music called “Americana”. It’s a little folk, a little country with some bluegrass mixed in for flavor. I keep hearing this type of sound called “roots” music, but to me, it’s all relative to keeping it real. No gimmicks, no weird outfits, just good music from yesterday and today. That set the pace throughout the evening with two very talented and spirited bands – one a duo, the other a small army.
Gray Gurkin and the Lost Souls started off the evening. They were missing one Lost Soul reducing them to a duo with their drummer, Chip Farnsworth, and singer, guitarist, Gray Gurkin, who has carved out quite a name for himself as a solo artist, but he obviously thrives with his band, no matter how small.
The Lost Souls are very professional and know how to put on a show. Gray Gurkin interacts with the audience and makes them feel appreciated. The originals songs are both upbeat and spirited, even the sad ones. Gray Gurkin has a powerful voice and he’s not afraid to use it, coupled with that Dwight Yokam bounce when he plays, and you have a great front man and a wonderful sounding band. All the members of The Lost Souls are from Virginia and have played with many other successful bands through the years and it shows. The bands original songs include “Matchbox”, “Wildflower”, and “Sunday Morning”.
Band Members:
Gray Gurkin: Lead vocals, guitar
Chip Farnsworth: Drums
Turtle: Bass and backing vocals
Website: The Lost Souls and Gray Gurkin
The Muckrakes took the stage by storm a while later and I could barely believe the head count on that stage. The band has 7 current members who all play a variety of different instruments, including my personal favorite, the lap steel guitar and rub board. It gave the band personality to play such vibrant instruments and the combination of harmonies and blend of music swept you away to another time when things were simple. I think this type of music is really needed right now to get our priorities back in line and see the simple beauty in things. That’s what this music gives you, simple beauty, and I was definitely in need of some.
The Muckrakes formed in October of 2008 in Newport News, VA after some lineup changes have their current band. Their songs include “Young and Crazy”, “What Does She Have to Say” and “Until They’re Gone”.
Band Members:
Melissa Troutman: vocals
Matt Minguez – violin
Jon Owings – vocals, mandolin, banjo
Dave Jackson – drums
Cory Nealon – Lap steel guitar, dobro guitar
Spider Turner – guitar
Billy Englan - bass
Website: The Muckrakes
The Muckrakes Pics
The Lost Souls Pics
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Sunday, February 1, 2009
TRIPLE THREAT - Our First Venue Review
A REVIEW OF THE TRIPLE BILLIARDS BAR LOCATED AT
3306 WEST BROAD STREET, RICHMOND, VA 23230 804-359-7777
Submitted by Elvistra
The Triple, located across from the Channel 6 News Station on W. Broad Street, has come a long way in the last few months. The term “pool hall” might be a little dated, but the Triple, previously known as “The Triple Triangle” has no intention of abandoning its roots. It started as a billiards room complete with neon sign above the door in the shape of brightly colored pool balls and has not changed much apart from the fact that it is quickly becoming THE place to go to see live bands perform.
Community Chest Booking, run by Danny Ingram and Tiffany Cale, are responsible for booking all the local and national acts that perform at the Triple and it is not unusual to see two or three bands in one evening. The cover is always minimal and considering the quantity and quality of the entertainment, you are getting a major deal.
The atmosphere is also pleasant to the eye thanks to local art displayed on the walls to promote local artists who want to show and sell their art. I have had several friends show there and it is a wonderful way to support artists.
Then, you can always play pool. The back room is spacious and filled with pool tables and eager pool players. It is unusual to see an empty table until very late in the evening.
So, there is your “Triple Threat”, music, art and billiards. Take your pick or enjoy them all. The bar ain’t bad either. The bar staff is wonderful and friendships are made early on if you are a regular, which I have to say, I have become. The door men give me a hug and the bartenders brilliantly know what I want before I ask for it. It’s a win win situation people. I heart The Triple. You will too.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
3306 WEST BROAD STREET, RICHMOND, VA 23230 804-359-7777
Submitted by Elvistra
The Triple, located across from the Channel 6 News Station on W. Broad Street, has come a long way in the last few months. The term “pool hall” might be a little dated, but the Triple, previously known as “The Triple Triangle” has no intention of abandoning its roots. It started as a billiards room complete with neon sign above the door in the shape of brightly colored pool balls and has not changed much apart from the fact that it is quickly becoming THE place to go to see live bands perform.
Community Chest Booking, run by Danny Ingram and Tiffany Cale, are responsible for booking all the local and national acts that perform at the Triple and it is not unusual to see two or three bands in one evening. The cover is always minimal and considering the quantity and quality of the entertainment, you are getting a major deal.
The atmosphere is also pleasant to the eye thanks to local art displayed on the walls to promote local artists who want to show and sell their art. I have had several friends show there and it is a wonderful way to support artists.
Then, you can always play pool. The back room is spacious and filled with pool tables and eager pool players. It is unusual to see an empty table until very late in the evening.
So, there is your “Triple Threat”, music, art and billiards. Take your pick or enjoy them all. The bar ain’t bad either. The bar staff is wonderful and friendships are made early on if you are a regular, which I have to say, I have become. The door men give me a hug and the bartenders brilliantly know what I want before I ask for it. It’s a win win situation people. I heart The Triple. You will too.
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE!
CASHMERE JUNGLE LORDS @ 3RD WAVE PLAY THE TRIPLE, 1/23/09
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
The show last Saturday was a reunion of sorts for the older, or as I like to call us, “seasoned” crowd of local RVA. Everyone seemed to know someone in one of the bands playing that night because we’ve all been around long enough to know everybody and their friends.
Local band 3rd Wave started the evening off with two sets of hypnotic instrumentals that I normally tune out. Music just isn’t the same without lyrics. But this band made me stop and pay attention immediately because they were playing some of my favorite songs without lyrics and I was so impressed I forgot my judgmental ways and swayed to the music as if no different. I also don’t flock to hear surf music, but I’m beginning to wonder what “surf” is really all about.
I’ve never known an instrumental surf band to play “Walk the Line”, “Whiter Shade of Pale”, or the sexiest version of “Rumble” I’ve ever heard. Then again, I usually am not there to witness, so I have to say if this is what surf music is, I have been converted.
3rd Wave Band Members: Casey Cash – guitar
John Haynor – guitar
Joe Mitchell – bass
Bob Walden - drums
Band website: 3rd Wave
The Cashmere Jungle Lords played the second half of the evening and it had been many years for this “seasoned” Richmonder since she had seen CJL, but I won’t wait as long next time.
The Cashmere Jungle Lords are a well know band in Richmond. They have paid their dues, spent a lot of time playing musical chairs with their band members, but they always seem to come back bigger and better than ever. The band originated over 21 years ago migrating to Oregon Hill to create their unique sound. Of all the bands CJL played with over the years, I have to say opening for The Who in 1998 must have been at the top of their list.
The band describes their sound as “Southern Fried Salsa Surfabilly”. Okay. I’ll accept that. Singer Dominic Carpin is also described as the inventor of “amp surfing”. That’s where you lost me, but all I know is the music is a little rock, a little rockabilly, a little surf, and a whole lotta fun. Did I mention they write their own material and if you knew the guys involved, that makes for some interesting songs. Seeing both of these bands among old and new friends made for another wonderful event at the Triple.
Keep it up Danny and Tiffany, you are making some special memories!
Cashmere Jungle Lord Band Members: Dominic Carpin – guitar & vocals
John Dacey – bass, acoustic guitar & vocals
Todd Woodson – drums
John Moore – percussion
Band Website: Cashmere Jungle Lords
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Submitted by Cindy Johnson
The show last Saturday was a reunion of sorts for the older, or as I like to call us, “seasoned” crowd of local RVA. Everyone seemed to know someone in one of the bands playing that night because we’ve all been around long enough to know everybody and their friends.
Local band 3rd Wave started the evening off with two sets of hypnotic instrumentals that I normally tune out. Music just isn’t the same without lyrics. But this band made me stop and pay attention immediately because they were playing some of my favorite songs without lyrics and I was so impressed I forgot my judgmental ways and swayed to the music as if no different. I also don’t flock to hear surf music, but I’m beginning to wonder what “surf” is really all about.
I’ve never known an instrumental surf band to play “Walk the Line”, “Whiter Shade of Pale”, or the sexiest version of “Rumble” I’ve ever heard. Then again, I usually am not there to witness, so I have to say if this is what surf music is, I have been converted.
3rd Wave Band Members: Casey Cash – guitar
John Haynor – guitar
Joe Mitchell – bass
Bob Walden - drums
Band website: 3rd Wave
The Cashmere Jungle Lords played the second half of the evening and it had been many years for this “seasoned” Richmonder since she had seen CJL, but I won’t wait as long next time.
The Cashmere Jungle Lords are a well know band in Richmond. They have paid their dues, spent a lot of time playing musical chairs with their band members, but they always seem to come back bigger and better than ever. The band originated over 21 years ago migrating to Oregon Hill to create their unique sound. Of all the bands CJL played with over the years, I have to say opening for The Who in 1998 must have been at the top of their list.
The band describes their sound as “Southern Fried Salsa Surfabilly”. Okay. I’ll accept that. Singer Dominic Carpin is also described as the inventor of “amp surfing”. That’s where you lost me, but all I know is the music is a little rock, a little rockabilly, a little surf, and a whole lotta fun. Did I mention they write their own material and if you knew the guys involved, that makes for some interesting songs. Seeing both of these bands among old and new friends made for another wonderful event at the Triple.
Keep it up Danny and Tiffany, you are making some special memories!
Cashmere Jungle Lord Band Members: Dominic Carpin – guitar & vocals
John Dacey – bass, acoustic guitar & vocals
Todd Woodson – drums
John Moore – percussion
Band Website: Cashmere Jungle Lords
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
Join me at Weblo Virtual World for Fun & Profit!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
ELVIS’ BIRTHDAY BASH @ THE PLAZA BOWL FEATURING WRENN MANGUM AND HAMBURGER JAMES
JANUARY 9, 2009
Elvis Presley would’ve turned 74 on January 8, 2009, so to celebrate, my friends Wrenn Mangum and Hamburger James paid tribute the best way they knew how. By performing a live show at the ever trendy Plaza “Duckpin” Bowl and the result was heartwarming and rockin’!
Wrenn Mangum is known for his love of the King and his massive collection of Elvis songs which he performs solo to perfection. Wrenn doesn’t have to look like Elvis, or even sound exactly like Elvis, because his spiritual connection to Elvis is so strong that you FEEL Elvis and that is the highest compliment I know to give any performer that dares to mess with the King. I was raised on Elvis and saw him live when I was a kid at the Richmond Coliseum in 1974 & 1976 and I know how it feels to feel Elvis, and when Wrenn is performing, Elvis is in the room and he is smiling. Wrenn is the real deal and if you love Elvis or any 50’s music, you should see Wrenn perform at any cost (which is usually a few bucks if anything), because he will haunt you and you will become addicted to the lovely ghosts that surround him when he performs.
Hamburger James’ band members span from here in Richmond all the way to Northern Virginia. I think I saw the first show they did in Richmond and they have come a very long way from playing Rocks in the freezing cold patio bar and very few people brave enough to handle the cold and uncomfortable set up. But I was there and I said to myself, this band gets it. They know what it means to be true rockabilly. They know it takes more than an upright bass to sound rockabilly. You need heart and you have to eat, sleep and drink the music and Hamburger James fulfills all my rockabilly dreams. Their original material is funny, sweet and well written. The ballad “Are You The One” is very tender and intense, and on the other end you have “Rumble Tonight” and “The Ballad Of Hamburger James”, which is funny and clever.
A permanent member of the Hamburger James show now includes Jennifer Vaughan who pays tribute to the late great Janis Martin, who the band was fortunate enough to perform with on her last trip to Richmond before her untimely death. I’m hoping Jen will become a bigger part of the shows and sing more. She and husband vocalist Andy are quite a pair together, quite reminiscent of June and Johnny.
Hamburger James is: Andy Vaughan – lead vocal, rhythm guitar
Jennifer Vaughan – vocals
Bill Pettus – drums
Slawdaddy – electric guitar
Will Armstrong – “Dog House” bass
You can look for Hamburger James’ newest CD, “Last Plane to Memphis” on their website: hamburgerjames
Wrenn’s CD is available on his website: wrennmangum
Writen by Cindy Johnson aka Elvistra
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
Elvis Presley would’ve turned 74 on January 8, 2009, so to celebrate, my friends Wrenn Mangum and Hamburger James paid tribute the best way they knew how. By performing a live show at the ever trendy Plaza “Duckpin” Bowl and the result was heartwarming and rockin’!
Wrenn Mangum is known for his love of the King and his massive collection of Elvis songs which he performs solo to perfection. Wrenn doesn’t have to look like Elvis, or even sound exactly like Elvis, because his spiritual connection to Elvis is so strong that you FEEL Elvis and that is the highest compliment I know to give any performer that dares to mess with the King. I was raised on Elvis and saw him live when I was a kid at the Richmond Coliseum in 1974 & 1976 and I know how it feels to feel Elvis, and when Wrenn is performing, Elvis is in the room and he is smiling. Wrenn is the real deal and if you love Elvis or any 50’s music, you should see Wrenn perform at any cost (which is usually a few bucks if anything), because he will haunt you and you will become addicted to the lovely ghosts that surround him when he performs.
Hamburger James’ band members span from here in Richmond all the way to Northern Virginia. I think I saw the first show they did in Richmond and they have come a very long way from playing Rocks in the freezing cold patio bar and very few people brave enough to handle the cold and uncomfortable set up. But I was there and I said to myself, this band gets it. They know what it means to be true rockabilly. They know it takes more than an upright bass to sound rockabilly. You need heart and you have to eat, sleep and drink the music and Hamburger James fulfills all my rockabilly dreams. Their original material is funny, sweet and well written. The ballad “Are You The One” is very tender and intense, and on the other end you have “Rumble Tonight” and “The Ballad Of Hamburger James”, which is funny and clever.
A permanent member of the Hamburger James show now includes Jennifer Vaughan who pays tribute to the late great Janis Martin, who the band was fortunate enough to perform with on her last trip to Richmond before her untimely death. I’m hoping Jen will become a bigger part of the shows and sing more. She and husband vocalist Andy are quite a pair together, quite reminiscent of June and Johnny.
Hamburger James is: Andy Vaughan – lead vocal, rhythm guitar
Jennifer Vaughan – vocals
Bill Pettus – drums
Slawdaddy – electric guitar
Will Armstrong – “Dog House” bass
You can look for Hamburger James’ newest CD, “Last Plane to Memphis” on their website: hamburgerjames
Wrenn’s CD is available on his website: wrennmangum
Writen by Cindy Johnson aka Elvistra
***************************************
If your on the East Coast, be sure to sign up for
MusicRVA Social Network!
And Be sure to sign up for the new Sojournstar Music Network!
and if you want to make money while having fun and promoting your band, music or business, then you must
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