DETROIT LIVE FEBRUARY 2015 by Detroit Live Magazine

Darian Counts Presents

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Contents 6. BIG HERK, PROFIT AND MANY MORE

FEBRUARY 2015

2014 BLOW UP MY BAND WINNERS

PERFORM AT THE DETROIT PUB 10. BENNY AND THE JETS 12. 2014 BLOW UP MY BAND WINNERS TAKEN ACES 14. HARLEY WALLEN 16. RAW RADIO REBELS RADIO FRANCHI 25. FILMMAKER DENNIS REED II INKS A DEAL WITH NETFLIX 26. DLMODEL OF THE MONTH DANIELLE MARTIN

28. CHOICE CUTS 29. HOROSCOPE

Contributors: Eric Harabadian, Dylan James, John Lebang, Aluna Michaels, Darian Counts, Benny Jet, Samantha Etter, Reagan Blair, Jeff Marzolf Graphic Design: Granger Graphics

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Additional Photos: Matteo Donini, Marc Nader, Chris Balow, Darkside Photography Cover Photo: Marc Nader Publisher: Detroit Live Media LLC Promotion: Amanda Blanchard Managing Editor: Darian Counts Contributing Editor: Jay Brian Sales: Eric Mac, Darian Counts

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Photo Dark Side Photography

bIG hERK

Are you bored of the usual rap and hip hop shows? If you answered yes, then Drozone Entertainment is hosting the perfect show for you! They will be getting guys together on February 27, 2015 at The Detroit Pub that will bring you the new world of rap and hip hop. Big Herk will be performing with other great artists, including Profit, Smoke Stacks, Raymo, Tocco &The D-squad300boyz, and I am Trouble, among others. These guys are going to bring all the hits that their fans enjoy. Grab a beer and some liquor while you watch the show or just sit back, it’s going to be a great time that you’re not going to want to miss!

But, these guys had to work hard to get where they are at now. There was a time when Big Herk was not always so big. You wouldn’t recognize the young man who was playing sports and break dancing before entering the hip hop and rap scene. He had been influenced by all “the cool cats that were big at the time,” such as Big Daddy Kane and LL Cool J. He hasn’t always been a solo artist either. He started his career rapping with the group Rock Bottom. He soon released his first solo album Guilty as Charged in 2003. While he was making his own music, they were also creating an album of their own. Eventually Big Herk and Rock Bottom began to part ways musically, while they were still very close in their personal lives. Amazingly, they are still very close to this day. Joining the group was just the beginning of Big Herk’s music career. When asked about his rise in Detroit’s music industry, he expressed that hard work and determination were the main keys needed to get to where he is now. “You don’t just wake up and say, ‘I’m gonna rap.’ It’s a gradual process and takes time,” Big Herk reflected. His first shows were unpaid, he performed them to “build his name” so it would be known to audiences and eventually agencies. While he was performing, he worked for DJ’s and had to go through many “opened and closed doors.” There was a lot of time spent learning and growing not only as a musician but as a person also. He had to constantly “rap, 6 LIVE

By Samantha Etter

rap, rap!” to get his name out there, and he contributes some of his success to luck and timing. Sometimes many shows have to be done before they are heard by the right people at the right time. Even though he respects rappers who sing about one subject all the time, he wants to move his ways around cd’s, meaning he brings a variety of topics into his work. He likes his songs to be more “from the heart” and wants to tackle important topics such as politics. He also chooses not to rap about the “cosmetics” and instead expresses all the different situations that people need to live out daily. He wants “stories, real life, and ballads.” Big Herk has a bigger agenda in mind than singing about strippers and money. He made that clear when he said, “My grandma listens to rap, so I would want her to hear me singing about that stuff, my daughter too.” Because he chooses such topics, his music can appeal to a wider variety of people. It will be the first time that Big Herk has performed at the Detroit Pub, so if you are new to the scene you should come and check it out. Big Herk’s fans will be excited to hear that he will be performing all his bests hits, including “Ima Boss” and “Living Da Life.” Along with his classics, he is planning on having his son appear with a mixed tape of his own. Bring some friends and enjoy the party!

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stage, but the way the room is set up, for the audience to see, and listen, to the people on the stage. The guys also heard about a new stage in Wyandotte, at Tongue’s Coffee House. Several small coffee and sandwich shops have stages and support live music. Potbelly Sub shops have several locations with a small stage and live music, and we LIKE that. Max and Rob, of X- Husbands and Rezination have found a little Friday night stage at the Village Lounge in Wayne. Carl Henry holds down the stage at McShane’s. Detroit guitar hero’s, Eddie Leighton and the Floor Play Band found a little stage at Fat Head’s in Westland. Joe TheLiGraci, Column Jason Bone, Mike Ference, on the open mic stage, at the Crystal Lounge, also in Westland. Jimmy McCarty on a great little stage at Callahan’s Music Hall in Aubun Hills. Callahan’s has an interesting concept, truly and music listening club. The former Ponderosa Steak house, with a nice stage, PA and lighting. Features up close, intimate seating, where the audience can truly connect with the artist on stage. Callahan’s is only open on concert nights. It is a formula that seems to be working. Artists like Tab Benoit, Johnny Winter, Jimmy Vaughan, Elvin Bishop Coco Montoya and our own Jimmy McMarty love Callahan’s stage.

BENNY & THE JETS Where have all the stages gone? Raddi Audio, Lighting and Staging rents stages. Raddi has the biggest and best, professional concert stages. But I'm thinking more about clubs and stages where Detroit bands might play on a regular basis. So often now days you may see a band, or some live entertainment, on the floor, next to a pool table, or at the end of the hallway. Back in the day, we had some truly great club stages. The Red Carpet, The Studio, The Funny Farm, The Roostertail, Coral Gables, The Ritz.

The Thunderbowl in Allen Park has a couple of unused stages. A big dance room upstairs, with the smaller former comedy room stage down stairs, and a nice stage in the main bar room. Owner Bill Strobel, who is a live music fan, say’s they had some success with 89X live band promotions, but needs to find some bands willing to partner up. The late Detroit singer Jamie Coe had a scientific thought about stages. Jamie liked a stage to be in the center of the room, as opposed to the end or length wise, thinking as he sat center stage, he would be closer to all the people in the room. Closer made for a more intimate feel with the audience. You could see them, they could

Where are the best stages? We still have the Fox theater, Fillmore, Royal Oak, Harpos, Magic Bag. But I hear Magic Stick is going to take down their stage and turn the concert room into Electronic dance club. There are still places like The All Around with nice corner stage, lights and house PA, The Token, Machine Shop, Smalls, Chatters, Club Canton, Beaver Creek, Simon’s, Buster’s, Perfect Pitcher, Lager House, Bull Frog, US-12, Classic Lanes, Pier 500, Blind Pig, and One Under. Paycheck’s in Hamtramic has a nice theater type stage, curtain, brick wall, PA and lights. Christina Chriss, the George Brothers, Killer Flamingos, Alexander Zonjic, Reefermen, have found a stage at the NEW Axis Club inside the MGM Casino downtown Detroit. There are a couple of live music stages at the Motor City Casino. Greektown Casino has had live music, but last time I checked the band was on the floor next to the bar. No stage. The Rushmore Band, likes the Rockery in Wyandotte. Not only the 10 LIVE

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see you, the exchange made the music magic. I often pick up a copy of Detroit Live at the near by Guitar Center, or Gordy’s Guitars in Ferndale, Anderson Music store on Telegraph, MIKE CARY MUSIC on Fort Street. Music stores promote players. The big Sam Ash music store in Las Vegas has a live music stage. I think the Huber and Breese store in Fraser, does too. Kind of a cool idea. If YOU know of a stage, let me know, so we can put it in the column, and promote live music. Contact Benny 313 730 1627 or benejets@aol.com www.facebook.com/ bennyandthejets. See Benny and the Jets Band or Benny (solo guitar) Thursday’s 9pm at Redford Moose open mic. Friday’s 6pm Peterlin’s Craft Beer Bar and Restaurant in Farmington. Saturday’s I’m looking for a stage to play... Sundays 5pm Bourbon’s in Wyandotte.

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Taken Aces

By Jeff Marzolf

Every Rock n’ Roll song has a break. Every Rock n’ Roll

obvious that the group has incredible chemistry because it won the contest with only a handful of live performances band needs a break. And the break that a band needs most under its belt. “We’re in the blooming stage right now. is exposure to the masses—especially a new band, one We’re truly fresh out of the garage,” Hetchler admits. The that’s just starting out. That’s exactly why the members five member band may be newly formed, but the members, of Detroit area band, Taken Aces, are stoked to have won Brothers Adam (Vocals) and Tanner Hetchler (Drums), Jonny Detroit Live Magazine’s 2014 “Blow Up My Band” contest. Neville (Guitar), Phil Steuer (Bass) and newest member, Alex Lead Vocalist Adam Hetchler and the rest of the band is Orlando (Guitar), have many years of experience playing in appreciative for the chance to be “Blown up.” “We can’t local Detroit bands. thank Detroit Live Magazine enough for giving us the opportunity to be on the cover of the magazine—and to The members are proud to say that they’re a group of hard help us record our first E.P.,” said Hetchler. working guys who are ready to do what it takes to make it big. They’re truly trying to make it from scratch. Just like To the victor go the spoils. Since winning the contest the many Detroit musicians have done before them, like Bob band has been hard at work recording its first E.P. with Seger and Kid Rock. “We’re building this from the ground Producer Chuck Alkazian at Pearl Sound Studios in Canton, up,” said Neville. It’s a challenge for the members at this MI. “Chuck is a great producer. He helped us take our songs stage of the game because they all have day jobs. “Really, from a 9 to a 10,” said Adam Hetchler. The five track E.P., we’re just a bunch of blue collar guys, you know? All of us due out this month, showcases the band’s undeniably work hard at our jobs during the day, and then we all shift unique blend of hard rock and blues. But it wasn’t all fun gears—and rehearse at least four to five nights a week,” and games in the studio. The guys learned a lot about added Steuer. each other during the recording process. They admit that tensions ran high between them at times, but they all agree The band members are all in their early to mid-20’s. it’s made them a tighter unit because of the experience. But after listening to and watching the group perform “Well, we’re still taking each other’s phone calls,” said throughout the contest, it’s obvious that the band has Adam Hetchler jokingly. done its homework with regard to being a band that has its musical roots based in Detroit. Despite their relatively Winning the 2014 contest was quite a feat considering that young age, the members are familiar with the hard rocking the band was newly formed just prior to the contest. It’s musical tradition in which came before them—a tradition 12 LIVE

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Photo Marc Nader that they want to uphold with their music. They know the history of Detroit music—and collectively hope that their band will be part of the reemergence of the local music scene in Detroit. “Bands around Detroit back in the 1980’s helped each other. These days it doesn’t feel like there’s that same kind of networking scene,” said Neville. But the guys are hopeful that bands will help each other out and start pulling in the same direction. Despite how they envision a more user friendly local music scene where every band looks out for each other, the Hetchler brothers didn’t find the scene any better in L.A., where Adam and Tanner spent some time. Adam and Tanner decided to return to Detroit where their roots are and where they feel it’s easier to stand out as a band. “I slept in a van for six months trying to break in the music scene in L.A. I’m really glad to be back home,” said Tanner Hetchler.

guitars, the band has two guitar gun slingers. “We feel that we can go toe to toe musically with anyone right now,” Adam Hetchler says confidently. The guys are quick to acknowledge a virtual who’s who of the most hard rocking bands of the past 40 years as their musical influences, including Van Halen, Guns and Roses, Lynyrd Skynyrd, MC5, The Rockets, Alice Cooper and The Doors. These influences are almost immediately recognizable after just a few notes and a few lyrics on a number of tunes that helped them win the “Blow Up My Band” contest, such as “Am What I Am” and “My Whiskey.” The influence is also evident on one of the band’s new tracks, “Baby, Goodbye,” which will be included on the E.P.

Now that the band has the recording under its belt, it’s time for the band to start performing to support the E.P. The group looks forward to playing shows in and around Detroit—and then eventually throughout the Midwest. With the help of the release of the band’s E.P. and the The band already has a local following, which is a testimony band’s obvious talent—it’s just a matter of time before the to the group’s ability to make fans fast. Many of the already masses will know Taken Aces. faithful helped the band win the Detroit Live Contest and helped celebrate the group’s victory. “There was always a Visit Taken Aces at ReverbNation page for more information group of fans right in front of the stage, who were rockin’ about the band and a list of upcoming appearances: www. out when we played. We’re playing for them. We love reverbnation.com/takenaces interacting with our audience,” Tanner Hetchler says with a smile. Rockin’ out is right. With Neville and Orlando on DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM

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filmstar / fighter / family man

HARLEY WALLEN By Darian Counts

from Sweden, 20 years in Michigan has helped to reinforce For Swedish immigrant and recently sworn-in American citizen hails his mid-western work ethic. “I’m not ready to go full time with

Harley Wallen acting has always been his dream. In the last few years he’s been able to watch that dream become a reality. After acting yet, I love doing it and I’ve been lucky to have some great successes; but the reality is I have 5 kids and a great day job that close to 20 years of acting Harley finds himself in a place where I truly enjoy. Acting is my passion and as of now I am happy to be he and his acting skills are in high demand. able to take roles and do them for the love of the craft if I had to support my family from my acting earnings I’m not sure I could do Says Wallen “The Michigan Movie scene is incredibly robust it. But things are moving fast…so you never know what’s coming right now. I’m meeting a lot of talented writers and directors. There is just no shortage of work.” Multiple projects on multiple around the corner.” Says Wallen. continents and countries has propelled Harley’s career forward. In addition to projects in North and South America Wallen is currently working with Detroit native Dennis Reed II on his Netflix While awaiting the release of his last project “Number One Contender” Harley has joined the cast of the of two new projects series “I declare War”. I’m really exited to work with Dennis, he’s by best selling author, writer and director Indira Killen. The first, a talented filmmaker and just a great guy, we high hopes for this “Random” is describe by Wallen as an action-suspense, adventure series” says Harley. type film starring Michigan natives Walbert Veltron, Diana Salinas Harley is the epitome of the American Dream. Immigrating to the and Katrina Rene. In addition Harley is preparing for his role in US over 20 years ago he has pursued his dream of becoming a another Indira Killen production “Freedom” which is scheduled to begin shooting in Peru. Says Wallen, “I really like working with MMA fighter, a TV ringside sports announcer and actor. Talking to him it becomes clear why so many people want to work with him. Indira, she’s a true professional. Many filmmakers try and wear His work ethic, dedication and talent make him stand out in a sea too many hats due to budget constraints, but not Indira. She brings in the best of the best and lets them do what they do best of acting hopefuls. In addition to being talented Harley is always and it really shows in the finished project, She’s has such a vision willing to throw recognition and appreciation to the people he works with. As of January 2015 most readers may only know the of what she wants the film to be that it becomes contagious”. name Harley Wallen from reading about him in Detroit Live…but With this much work you would assume that Harley would be full stay tuned, I have a feeling that very soon Harley “The Swede” Wallen will be a household name.. time in the acting business, but not so. While Harley originally 14 LIVE

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8:12pm, Raw Radio X Studios, Russell Industrial

Center, Detroit, Michigan. Radio Franchi is live, going out to thousands of listeners worldwide. The show crew huddled around the studio table like friends at a campfire. They have a guest in today. Becky, the friend of a crew member. Show host Franchi is discussing never having had a one night stand, and considering trying it. He takes a call from a listener. It's Becky's married mother. "I concur, and I'm available!", she belts out through the scratchy phone line. As a mortified Becky throws her hands over her mouth and nervously laughs in disbelief, Franchi begins taunting Becky with a bratty childlike playground chant,”I’m gonna fuck your mommmm... I’m gonna fuck your mommmmm.” Just another Wednesday in the life of mega popular internet radio sensation Radio Franchi. Raw Radio X’s own hit show, that, as Franchi says, was “Built on filthy language, taboo subjects and being pissed off at all the 16 LIVE

idiots on this planet.” RawRadioX.com is the brain-child of Detroit native Lori Hildebrandt. Debuting in the winter of 2013, Raw Radio X is currently home to upwards of 15 unique shows. One that has blistered it’s way to the front of the pack is Radio Franchi. This show, whose main writer, producer and voice is Christopher Franchi, simply know to friends and fans of the show as ‘Franchi’, has gone from a few hundred to thousands and thousands of listeners across the globe, in just over a year. Aside from some local facebook barraging, the growth is pretty much due to word of mouth. What’s interesting about this scenario is that no one on the show has a radio background, and they don’t operate under a set format, so it’s a ‘fly by the seat of your Franchi-pants’ show. Seeing as their listenership has sky-rocketed in such a short time, obviously they are doing something right. So, how did this happen??

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Franchi and Hildebrandt met in a high school art class. While they didn’t keep in close touch much after graduation, years later, MySpace and Facebook would reunite them. Franchi was working as a music industry photographer and graphic artist for Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures, the NHL, as well as huge bands like KISS, AC/DC, White Stripes, Alice Cooper, actress Juliette Lewis and oddly enough, Tim McGraw, though he doesn’t hide his extreme displeasure for the country music genre. As Franchi puts it,”Redneck, shit-kicker, twangy crap, but screw it. He’s a national act and I’m getting paid very well! That’s smart business! I’m basically an art whore!” Shortly after RawRadioX.com was born, Hildebrandt needed a guest for her show and she thought of Franchi. She knew, “His unique sense of humor and amazing career achievements would make for a kick-ass interview. He would totally be entertaining.” It took Hildebrant a month or so to convince him, but he finally agreed. “It wasn’t so much that I wanted to, but rather a favor for a friend. I was still convinced it would be utterly boring as hell for listeners”, said Franchi. He was wrong. Needless to say, the 90 minute interview went so well that listeners, Hildebrandt’s friends, as well as people who didn’t know either of them were calling in with crazy positive feedback, prompting Hildebrandt to lobby Franchi to host his own show. While he was flattered, he felt that no one would really care what he had to say. “Why bother? There are people out there who absolutely suck at what they do, Like Nickelback - and put it out there, only to get railed

unmercifully. I don’t want to be the next Nickelback. No Thank you.” But Hildebrandt’s persistence paid off a month later when Franchi caved in and agreed to do it. However, he had stipulations. Franchi insisted,”I will do it only if I can do WHATEVER I want. I have no interest in blowing local musicians. I don’t even have any interest in talking music. I want to do something I have never seen done, like a morning show at night.” Hildebrandt replied,”Whatever you want.” Almost a year and a half later, and with the loss of original co-host and still dear friend, Lizmo (Lizzy Morgan) and later the raunchy and boisterous Fat Tits (Emilyn Rice), what makes up the lightning in a bottle that the current Radio Franchi lineup manufacture? With the help of co-hosts Kono (Kenny Konaszewski), who joined the show a few episodes in, and newest addition, McCrumb (Emily McCrumb), Franchi admits,”Aside from my twisted brand of humor, that

listeners seem to appreciate, it’s all about chemistry. When we’re talking about a good fit with my sense of humor, that’s a rare find.” “Yeah, chemistry and co-hosts that make Franchi sound funny!” adds Kono, in his usual mode of making fun of the host. Indeed. As I listened to the show, I couldn’t help but laugh as I listened to some of the topics, ranging from the slightly crazy and often risqué, to the off-the-wall and bizarre. It’s Franchi’s unique sense of humor that can make the ordinary come off as hysterical nuggets of radio gold. “Praise non FCC regulated radio”, insists Franchi. Aside from the mileage Franchi and crew get from their own brand of ‘dick and fart jokes’ and insulting each other , another hilarious segment on the show is something they call ‘Franchi-Pants Rants’. A segment where the crew have the opportunity to bitch about anything they so desire. Franchi explains,”People love to bitch and complain. Not only do they like to do it, they like to hear it. There are Amazon customers reviews that have turned into mile long pages of fictitious complaints, and people just eat it up. I mean, it has to be said cleverly, tongue-in-cheek, but when we go off on how inept drive-thru workers are, or how

stupid some random old piece of shit driver is, listeners just eat it up, like a bowl of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup cereal.” You never know what might happen on this super popular show, with no particular format or boundaries. Especially since Franchi makes it a point to try and out-do the previous episode every week, refusing to get stale. Casein-point: This past January, Radio Franchi coined the term ‘JUGuary’ and had hilarious interviews with super chesty women who came into the studio. Something the host rather enjoyed, though the concept was suggested by the only woman on the show, McCrumb. In the middle of one interview, Franchi admitted,”I’ve got a radio chub”, referring to the fact the chesty guest had possibly given him an erection on the air. Fact or fiction? Hard to tell on this show. I didn’t check his pants because I had no idea what ‘radio chub’ meant, as well as Franchi’s befuddled co-host Kono, who replied, ”What the fuck is a radio chub?”

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Maggie Cocco

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SALES OPPORTUNITY SALES LEADERS AND PROMOTERS WANTED

Franchi admitted,”I couldn’t do this show without these guys. Kono, for as much as we don’t have in common, we do share a love for Randy Macho Man Savage and superheroes. He’s the only man alive who loves country music, who’s ass I don’t want to kick, but a little petty animosity is good for ratings, right? It’s also fun to make fun of his ‘theater’ background. The guy’s got talent but you don’t play a role in a local theater production of Grease without me tossing out a gay reference once in awhile. It’s all in good fun. Like I said, I couldn’t do the show without these guys.”

Individuals with positive attitude and neat appearance needed for sales positions with Detroit Live Media. up to 50k per year. We are interviewing in Taylor office for (1) Sales Manager and (3) Full Time Representatives. Should be outgoing, independent and people oriented. Love of the music industry is a plus. Interviews begin Mon. Jan. 12th Full Time / Part Time email: darian@detroitlivemagazine.com or call 734-775-9991 AREAS AVAILABLE: WESTLAND / CANTON LIVONIA NOVI ROYAL OAK / FERNDALE DOWTOWN DETROIT DOWNRIVER 18 LIVE

With the recent addition of McCrumb, Franchi adds,”The loss of Fat tits towards the end of 2014 created a MASSIVE void. A WOMAN. We were a show by guys, for guys, and didn’t have a female on the show. Plus tits are fun to look at, even if Fat Tits, contrary to her ironic nickname, was an A cup at best. So, we nabbed McCrumb in November of 2014.” Franchi went on to explain,” McCrumb is a lot like Fat Tits. No filter. A Radio Franchi requirement for the female role on our show. She doesn’t exactly possess the often offensive sexual past (and present) that Fat Tits touted, but my own mother refuses to listen to this day, because in one of our first episodes, Fat Tits [Prior to becoming a full time cast member] revealed how she had once shit on her boyfriends chest during a romp in bed. McCrumb is loaded with sass and not about to let us guys get away with anything. That being said, she can rip a fart with the best of ‘em. A few of the variety that cleared the studio, forcing an unscheduled music break, for our own safety.” [Laughs] In wrapping up our conversation, Franchi states,”Even though I still miss Lizmo and Fat Tits dearly, right now, the chemistry between Kono, McCrumb and myself is magic. Just the kind of sick perfection you can’t find in a jar, no matter how much they spent on an ad agency to create a fancy label. The chemistry is the best it’s ever been.” “Yeah, chemistry and co-hosts that make Franchi actually sound funny!” adds Kono, in his usual mode, making fun of the host. I last asked, what was Franchi’s favorite moment from a show? He revealed,”Doing a gag ‘Live From Vegas’ show that Kono and I just recorded one night in my home office! [laughs] The intro said ‘Live from the Sands Casino in Las Vegas’ and The Sands doesn’t even exist anymore. It was imploded back in ‘96. We actually never told anyone it was all bullshit.” [Laughs] Haven’t heard the show? Tune in to RADIO FRANCHI every Wednesday night (“Hump DAAAAAAYYY!” -Kono), from 7-9pm eastern, only on www.rawradiox.com. You can also interact with the crew on the official Radio Franchi Facebook page. www. facebook.com/radio franchi. The entire catalog of 60+ back episodes (including 3 ‘Best Of’ shows) can be heard on www. radiofranchi.com.

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or Dennis Reed ll, the film industry is the natural next phase in his career. The accomplished author, (He said She Said, True Law) and theatrical director has spent the last decade establishing contacts and honing his skills to establish himself within the film industry. His latest product “I Declare War” boasts performances from Royce Freed, Christian Keyes and Lamman Rucker. The production has recently been picked up for distribution by Netflix and is intended be offered on the network as a “Netflix Original Production”. This 8 episode series Delves into the underground crime organizations of Detroit and chronicles the battle between ethnic based rival crime organizations.

detroit filmmaker

By Darian Counts

Dennis Reed ii

strikes a deal with netflix

DR We are scheduled to turn in all 8 DC: What has been the most difficult aspect episodes by the end of February. So it could be available as early as April. of producing the series? DR: Probably the writing and production schedule. I’ve been in pure writing mode for the past month. As soon as the episodes are done we have a couple of read throughs then we shoot. We’re doing almost a entire episode in about three days.

Detroit Live caught up with Dennis Reed ll at 211 Ultra Lounge Downtown Detroit to discuss his upcoming release.

DC: What’s your writing process like for this series? Do you have the whole thing planned out or does it develop on the DC: Can you tell DL readers about your film page? making before I Declare war. DR: My writing process is very organic. I let the characters develop in a way that feels natural for them. Many times I’m shocked DR: Well, at the things characters say and do. I figure I produced if I’m shocked the audience will be as well. three films You never know whose going to die in this prior to the show. We’ve killed quite a few characters current project. They and were only four episodes into the season. But since it’s a show about mafia were great battles in Detroit; I think a decent bit of learning experiences. death is expected. One of the DC: Are there a lot of Detroit based actors things I Dennis Reed ll learned was in the film? the importance of good crew. Especially DR: Absolutely. We good camera people. Most people think had a casting call you can just point a camera and shoot right here at the but there is so much more to it than that. Ultra Lounge and I good camera person can make a huge over 700 people difference. Now I understand why they showed up. I try to make the money they make. use as many locals in the production DC: What do you think were some of the as possible. From factors that led to I Declare War being production to acting picked up by Netflix? there are a lot of talented people in DR: It was a combination of things. One Detroit but it’s also was the right contacts. I had a friend of important to bring mine make some calls and we got the in national names script in front of the right people. It wasn’t as well. Mixing long before we had several offers on the table. Granted not all of them were a match with local actors with nationals give for us but eventually we decided that a partnership with Netflix would help us reach great exposure for the most people. Another thing that helped everyone. sweeten the pot for Netflix was the fact that I had already published several books DC: When can we with close to a half millions sold copies. We expect to see the added in a few talented actors and a great show on Netflix? script and we were lucky enough to get picked up for 8 episodes. DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM

DC: Were you surprised when you learned Netflix wanted to pick up the show? DR: Not really. But I was very pleased. I mean it’s a great show. See Royce Reed in I Declare War We are all happy that Netflix decided to invest in this series. Since the city of Detroit is so instrumental in the show a lot of us feel it’s an investment in the Michigan film scene. I hope everyone who would like to see the Michigan film scene flourish will be sure and check it out “I Declare War” on Netflix this spring.

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Choice Cuts Eric Harabadian’s

February 2015

Ramones, Live at German Television: The Musikladen Recordings (LP/DVD, Sireena SIR 4027):

The date was September 13, 1978 and the Ramones were making their debut appearance in Europe playing a concert at the television studios of Germany’s Radio Bremen. What you have here is the band at their rawest and most immediate. They performed 25 songs in just under 50 minutes and this package put out by European label Sireena captures the band at their rockin’ best! It’s really kind of like a best of compilation as you get all their early hits like “Blitzkrieg Bop,” “Sheena is a Punk Rocker” and “Gimme Gimme Shock Treatment” along with cool covers like “California Sun” and the Sonny Bono penned “Needles and Pins.” The band fires off each tune with a sense of organized chaos as-- minus a few young ruffians in the front, the well mannered studio audience applauds politely. The images are sharp, with great camera work and crisp audio. The package contains a 180 gram vinyl LP as well as a full-length DVD of the show. The vinyl record also features encores from the performance. Hey, Ho Let’s Go!

Eliza Neals, Breaking and Entering (www.elizaneals.com 889211222018): Detroit blues-rock diva Eliza Neals follows up her award-winning release Messin’ With a Fool by continuing on a similar soulful path. But, unlike her previous album’s somewhat polished production approach, she goes for a grittier, more organic sound here. Granted the term “organic” tends to get overused quite a bit today but, when it comes to Neals’ edgy vocals and “live in the studio” vibe, there is no other way to describe it. She is the real deal, as they say. With a mixture of Etta James, Koko Taylor and Bonnie Raitt, Neals hits the streets for album opener “Detroit Drive.” The title track “Breaking and Entering” kind of has the same feel as Freddie King’s “Burglar” as the leader spins a tale of love and larceny. And that’s followed by a tantalizing mix of gems chock full of testifying, confessing and laying one’s heart on the line. Neals wrote the lion’s share of tunes, with contributions from high end collaborators and instrumentalists such as Barrett Strong, Howard Glazer, Mike Puwal, Kenny Olson and a host of Motown and Nashville’s finest. 28 LIVE

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Dave Kilminster, …And the Truth Will Set You Free (www.davekilminster.com ): Kilminster has carved a solid reputation for himself as a sideman to the stars—namely Roger Waters and Keith Emerson. But on this follow up to his first solo album Scarlet—The Director’s Cut, the British guitarist continues to show his talent is more than mere window dressing. He can cut a mean solo with the best of them but opts for putting the emphasis on strong songwriting and harmony vocals. The result is an album that has plenty of jamming moments to it, but is equally filled with catchy hooks and engaging arrangements. Examples of this can be found in tracks such as “Messiah,” with its lush choral vocals and rich use of dynamics. “Addict” displays the leader’s slide guitar prowess atop exotic rhythms and spacey atmosphere. “Thieves” is interesting for its blend of gutsy guitar riffs and Zeppelin-esque chamber strings. There is a nice balance here to satisfy both muso and casual music fan alike.

Navigator, Phantom Ships (Masterson Records 19664-5, www.navigatorofficial.com ): The latest release from this Buffalo, New York quartet further solidifies their prog-rock cred as one of the leaders of the genre. First of all, it’s great that the original members Marcangelo Perricelli (keyboards/lead vocals), Michael Soro (guitars), Rick Catanese (bass) and Rob Thurman (drums/vocals) are back in the fold. And the writing and arrangements are dynamic, sharp and breathtakingly precise. Perricelli has a voice that falls somewhere between Saga’s Michael Sadler and early Dennis DeYoung; eloquent and distinctive. That’s evident from the first few bars of “Life.” The song ripples with an early Ambrosia kind of feel, going through a series of thematic changes and resolving to a majestic coda. “Open Air” is another track that recalls classic Styx or Rush in its larger than life sonics and enveloping atmosphere. At over 15 minutes the epic title track appropriately takes center stage. This is the gold standard in terms of momentous rockers as Perricelli creates a sea of sound via his keyboard-based Masterson Symphony Orchestra. The band pulls out all the stops, with brave tales of modern Wagnerian scope storytelling. This is an album best digested, not in small doses, but as an entire collection. Well done!

Smokin’ Joe Kubek and Bnois King, Fat Man’s Shine Parlor (Blind Pig Records BPCD 5163): One of the most enduring modern blues duos around, Kubek and King hit pay dirt with this latest release. It’s simply a fun ride from start to finish. King has an emotive voice that is clean and packs a punch. Kubek is his perfect counterpart, supplying those razor sharp guitar riffs and accompaniment that complements any tune. And, counter to a lot of blues and jazz-oriented records that usually include a number of cover songs, Kubek and King write their own material. And it’s a career-defining assortment of songs too from the lover’s lament “Got My Heart Broken” and country rockin’ “Cornbread” to the cautionary tale of every traveling musician on the circuit entitled “How Much.” King has a very smooth and jazzy quality to his rhythm guitar work that dovetails so nicely with Kubek’s incendiary leads. With Kubek and King the blues are in good hands and here are a dozen reasons why.

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FEBRUARY

HOROSCOPE

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) — Happy birthday Aquarius! Mercury turns direct in your sign, giving you energy to clear out limited thinking. Your new level of optimism transforms your self-esteem and your relationships. It’s like a pallet cleanser for your heart. You’ll feel purified of negative experiences and the poor expectations they created. Meditate to firmly root the positive karma in your consciousness. You’ll also uplift others with your newfound bliss!

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) — Mercury retrograde might have caused dumb arguments in relationships. Now that it’s direct, meditate on your ego and how it keeps you from joy. Ponder the saying, “How important is it?” Does your “lower self” create drama for insignificant reasons? Better to argue with the part of you that limits your fulfillment than with your partner! If single, trounce negative inner voices that make you pessimistic or overly picky.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) — Get ready Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) – Meditate for prosperity! Mars and Venus create new to receive intuitive ideas that lead to prosperity! avenues for money flow! They also cause sexy sparks that begin a new relationship, or With the powerful energy right now, you can propel out of debt and also have better health re-ignite passion in a current one. In order to enjoy what the Universe has in store, commit (emotionally and physically!) If doubts arise, to your own self-care. Take breaks. Breathe smash them down with a firm “NO!” Be the master of your consciousness and fend off fear! deeply often. Practice yoga. Eat nourishing Then use affirmations that strongly declare the meals. Protect your mind from worry. Dwell on positive thoughts. Now you’re prepared for reality you want to create. bliss! Aries (March 21 – April 19) — Both Mars and Venus are in your sign this month. You’re energized to make changes and new beginnings in your relationships, self-esteem, career and health. Move out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself. This might not mean being wild, but can mean slowing down, focusing and making a commitment to a person, job or life direction. Meditate on goals to see what’s truly meaningful right now. Taurus (April 20 – May 20) — Meditate on your ideal relationship. What is this person like? How do they treat you? Most importantly, ponder who you have to be in order to draw this person into your life! Even if already partnered, you can improve your bond by doing this “4th dimensional” healing. Let this be a fresh start with new karma! Also, if you feel stuck or frustrated at work, things should correct by mid-month. Gemini (May 21 – June 20) — Your spiritual life has been re-invigorated by Mercury retrograde (it’s not always just about challenges and misunderstandings!) Meditate on if your friends, hobbies and goals actually match your spirituality. You can attract new people who resonate with your authentic self. Follow intuitions about different ways to spend your time. Depression fades and fulfillment floods in! Cancer (June 21 – July 22) — Awesome job possibilities pop up! Don’t doubt yourself or second guess your “luck” — it’s a new karmic beginning for you, so open to the good energy that awaits you! You sowed for this, and you deserve it! You’ll also have experiences that heal your heart from old wounds that limit trust in others. Release the past and embrace the love, abundance and prosperity that the present is giving you!

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Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) — You’ll have breakthroughs in relationships! Even if struggling for the past two years, the energy changes and you’ll feel clear and healed. An issue resolves between you, or if single for awhile, you’ll meet someone who renews your faith in love! Children can be a source of inspiration, as can any artistic or creative outlet. Even pets can play the role of healer. Meanwhile, meditate to release disappointments, so you’re open for happiness! Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) — How does the past cause you stress? As a Scorpio, releasing old experiences is more important than any other sign. Your energy gets blocked from repressed anger, buried disappointments and unacknowledged fear. Meditate and become willing to forgive these yucky memories. Ask the Universe to remove them from your consciousness. You’ll have more energy and be able to handle problems effortlessly. You’ll be healthy and happy!

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BY ALUNA MICHAELS, M.A.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) — Working with affirmations and creative visualization pays off! Mars and Venus bring healthy, happy relationships to you. You can also get a job offer doing something you love — working can be fun! It’s a good time to heal difficulties with siblings or close friends. Reach out with an open heart and old rifts melt away. Also start a new sport, or maybe dance classes. Be playful and enjoy life! Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) — Meditate for divinely inspired ideas about finances. As Mercury goes direct mid-month, you’ll manifest the concepts, or at least make big strides in your plan. It’s a perfect time to organize your house and purge things you don’t need or use. This stimulates even more abundance! While you’re at it, rid your brain of mean thoughts about yourself so you’ll have better self-esteem! Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer and soul evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than three decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version and as an E-book on her website. Aluna is available for appointments in her home, by phone or Skype. Call (727) 239-7179 or visit www.alunamichaels.com

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