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Hello kids and adults! Be more than welcome to our 10th issue!
So just to resume this month and the next one to come; I can only say it would be amazing!... I am Scream it like you mean it, Mayhem and so many more would be making ‘10 summer AMAZING! An ticles and ideas for the mag that I am pretty sure may draw a big smile in many of you old, new, rece
In the meantime, and as we wait, you can check this issue which is come loaded with bands and musi
At last, but no less, I would personally like to give a great welcome to our new writer coming out fro works in all sitting chair (except Danielle Lubené and The Cajunga) and The Hoster reviews; plus al ern Realm cd reviewer and You vs. Me) and John Colson (Cornypig and Dinasour Jr.) jobs coming designers: Kevin Sloan (Actual page, Top Bands and CD review), Syrika Rutherford (Sick cover desig which is on Podcast page and coming soon in our website)
So hope you enjoy everything and see you next time or keep in touch by Facebook or T So Rock in, out and all around! Rafa
Rafael Jóvine Editor and Founder Fredy Vengeance Designer Syrika Rutherford Cover Designer
Kevin S
Top Bands and desig
Cody B
Bands, CDs an view
John C
Uk photograp
m talking about awesome big tours and fest like Warped, nd we want to be part of that; also we are creating new arnts and just now readers from all around the world!
ic to fill your ears with the newest best out there!
om Charlotte, NC: Cody Blevins. You can see many of his lso we hope you enjoy Melissa Hurry (Evan spades, Modg out from Uk for the entire world. And no least the great n many you guys had seem minutes ago) and Fredy (Logo,
Twitter!
Sloan
d CD Review gner
Blevins
nd Shows rewer
Colson
her and writer
Melissa Hurry Uk writer and show reviewer
Jon Ramirez SoCal photographer and show reviewer
Rae Ann Varona CA photographer
www.myspace.com/abandonallships
www.myspace.com/aftercastband
www.myspace.com/forallthosesleeping
www.myspace.com/localarrows
www.myspace.co.com/markcashinband
http://www.purevolume.com/battlelion
www.myspace.com/sleepingwithsirens
www.myspace.com/thedrownout
www.facebook.com/ThisDyingWorld
www.myspace.com/wearetwin
www.myspace.com/vonisley
www.myspace.com/skiesalive
www.myspace.com/tonightwegolive
www.myspace.com/woeisme
Carnypig: ‘The Cautionary Tale of the Carnypig’
What on earth is a ‘Carnypig’ ? …. That was the first question I had to ask w
According to Paul Broome (otherwise known as Carnypig), it’s not what a ‘C It should be no surprise then that the album is predominately a collection of a perfect example.
This is isn’t to say however that the songs are all down tempo. …. ‘Exile on B
Trying to pigeonhole this record within a specific genre is not an easy task. T This record stands on its own as an exceptional piece of work.
If I were to be in any way critical, I would say that the vocal performances on listened to over and over again. ‘The Cautionary Tale of the Carnypig’ really is a record you have to ‘listen’ great musical experience from someone with very evident talent. Stand out track: ‘DirtyLittleGhosts’ Rating: 4 out of 5 Released by ‘The Street Light Farm’ – SLFCP01 http://www.myspace.com/carnypig
A month ago I had the good fortune to receive André pect.
I can only say that if I had to rate the entire disk for a at least the CD is not of the music that attracts me (With a sou there was something I can’t explain, that attracted me and d
Melodious guitars from acoustic to electric and a soun Check out more of Andres del Mar by going to: http://www.myspace.com/andresdelmar
Modern Realms definitely has music that reflects the band’s name! It’s an Mellow songs such as False Sense of Security, Taken, Walking in Circles, T your own interpretations.
The lead vocalist has a melodious voice with lyrics which take you on a jo Circles are one of my favourites of the album.
Days and Nights and Fly on the Wall have a mixed tempo sound and Tyra As a first album, I think it has a good field of inspiration and it’s a great o Realms, they have a je ne sais quoi and it would be nice to see Modern Re
Check out more of Modern Realms by going to http://www.myspace.com/mo
when I received the new album from Carnypig: ‘The Cautionary Tale of the Carnypig’.
Carnypig’ is that’s important, it’s all about what it represents - Outsiders and loners within misunderstood, shunned communities ……. sombre songs which do seem to reflect feelings of isolation and solitude. Mournful and introspective; mainly in terms of melody and tempo rather than lyrically, the songs are in places, simply exquisitely beautiful. ‘What did you do to me?’ being
Bash Street’ is a real upbeat tune that gives more than a tip of the hat to Pearl Jam and Kasabian. ‘Key to the Midway’ is another example, which, whilst admittedly albeit slightly slower, hasn’t failed yet to get me tapping my feet.
There are hints of a fairly diverse selection of influences throughout including The Eels, Depeche Mode, Pearl Jam, The Smiths and (as a special treat for me) Dreamtime era Cult, but none are so heavily evident as to suggest a lack of originality.
n some of the songs don’t quite do the music justice, and at times sound a little ‘forced’. Having said that though, there are moments where the vocals are pretty much perfect, including on the haunting ‘DirtyLittleGhosts’ which I could (and have) to… it’s not background music, nor is it a record that will (on the whole) energise you and get you out of your seat. It’s an album that requires time to fully digest. However, if you’re willing to give it the necessary time, you will be rewarded by a
és del Mar CD called "Un Proposito nada tiene que ver ", which to be honest I had no idea what to ex-
a song, I would have to choose the first single of the album: "Atraviesa las Olas" and it is that Andrés or und heavily Latino and the Rock / Pop with a Latin twist), but when I played the song mentioned above, draws me every time I hear the album.
nd somehow tropical, gives this CD the power to break down barriers of language and sounds.
n album that you play when you’re in all sorts of moods and you’ll easily drift away. Time Falls Sideways are imaginative and you can relate to the words and even make
ourney. I would love to see these songs as part of a soundtrack. Taken and Walking in
ant Sky is one of those short and sweet tracks on the album. opening to something that will grow in time. I think we have more to see from Modern ealms evolve…
dernrealms
The Upset Victory Review
Hailing from Cincinnati Ohio, The Upset Victory is a quintet that plays uplifting rock and roll sure to get the warped crowds swooning and moving along to the waves of thick guitar riffs from their three guitar attack. Whether it’s the spacey intro of Ascending: Sons of Apollo that turns chugging riffs that in less melodic hands would end up in angry flailing, to a passionate, and emotional song fitting of its moniker, or the technical pop-punk of Small Space Between You and The Sun, these guys know how to put you spirit higher. However, don’t let the melodic harmonies and soaring vocals fool you, these guys know how to rock, and aren’t afraid to put post-hardcore riffs snuggly between their angelic meanderings. For this look no further than The Will, a song that opens with a riff reminiscent of scene staples Chiodos, and godfathers Thursday, that quickly snakes and turns between sweet and sour, with rays of vocal sunshine through the stuttering rhythms. So while the boys show they have the chops time and again through each of their songs, it’s only a matter time before the upset is dropped, and victory is obtained.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? The name "The Upset Victory" was a name we were tossing around for awhile before actually agreeing on it. Our guitarist/singer Frank Hammonds came up with it and it eventually just stuck. We've always thought of ourselves as 'under dogs' to some degree and I think a lot of people have felt that way. Coming out of the ashes of previous failed bands and endeavors in life the band name has an emotional and meaningful undertone to it. How the band began?? The band started in mid 2006. We started demoing song ideas, recorded our first E.P. (which eventually landed us a record deal) and played our first show in early 2007. Frank Hammonds and Frank Harrison were in a band at the time called Better Luck Next Year that had just broken up. Spencer and myself had just left another band. I had heard about the Better Luck Next Year break up so I called Frank Hammonds up one day seeing if he wanted to work on some song ideas I was tossing around. The four of us clicked right away. About 6 months later after the release of our first E.P. Jeremiah Kramer, who was also in Better Luck Next Year, was asked to join TUV and we became a 5 piece with three guitarists. As of late, however, Jeremiah has left TUV amicably as well as Frank Harrison. Myself, Spencer Vanderzee, and Frank Hammonds continued on and have enlisted Kevin Deem on drums and Jason Dill on lead vocals to round out our new line up. We couldn't be happier with these changes and with all that has happened to us over the past few years it feels good to overcome those obstacles and come out on top with a great new line up and songs.
What's the message to transmit with your music?? We write songs about a range of topics, including (but not limited to) philosophy, personal loss, triumph, and standing up for individual beliefs. We try and stray from the typical lover's lament type stuff. We like to think big picture issues involving society and the world while not getting too preachy at the same time. If we can get some fan out there to just think differently about some issue or feel passionately about something then we've accomplished our goal. What's your method at the time of writing a song?? Sometimes myself or Frank will have a guitar riff or an entire song demoed. Other times Jason may have some lyrics that we construct a song around. Other times we'll just be at rehearsal and start jamming and a song can be formulated that way. We have no strict regiment or right or wrong way to write, whatever flows we go with. Our mentality is a "good song is a good song" no matter how it came about. Which is your music influences?? I can't speak for everyone in the band. But I definitely grew up on punk rock music like NoFx, The Descendents, and a lot of Epitaph Records bands. I also love the classics like Iron Maiden and Thin Lizzy. I think it's The Upset Victory's member's broad musical tastes and eclectic mix of bands that we enjoy listening to that really helps us formulate our own unique sound. Musically we're pretty open dudes. Which country you guys would love to play? Well we actually just signed a record deal in Australia and our CD is available in Greece and parts of Europe. Having been to Europe last year I'd love to go back. Japan would be amazing as well. With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? I think it'd be sweet to open for Mastadon those guys rule. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? We couldn't be happier with the new line up and new material we're working on. Old fans of TUV will still love this new stuff it's just a lot better. Having two amazing singers in your band to round things out definitely helps. We're taking a lot more chances on this new stuff and going in directions we haven't had the opportunity to do soin the past. For everyone reading be on the look out for new material, new website, and NEW everything summer 2010!
Check out more of this guys by going to www.myspace.com/theupsetvictory
Dinasour Jr. Live on UK Dinosaur Jr + Built to Spill @ Birmingham 02 Academy, Sunday 16th May 2010 When I recently told a few of my friends that I would be going to see Dinosaur Jr on their current UK tour, I was quite taken aback by their reactions. Whilst I like Dinosaur Jr and own a few of their albums I wouldn’t call myself a big fan. So to hear just how highly regarded the band are was somewhat surprising. However, having now seen the guys play live for the first time, I can see why… Prior to Dinosaur Jr‘s set, US indie band ‘Built to Spill’ took to the stage. Now, for those of you who have read one or two of my reviews from other shows will know, I like a bit of energy and interaction with the audience in my concerts… and I’m afraid in this respect Built To Spill sorely disappointed. With a severe lack of onstage chemistry and barely a word spoken between songs, my attention rapidly began to wander during their set. Watching the band retune for what felt like hours between each song didn’t help my concentration either. Built to Spill have influenced a lot of well known and commercially successful bands over their lengthy career and their musical ability and song writing skill is self evident. Their songs are atmospheric, moving and extremely complex (the use of loops, and delay effects within a good proportion of the set was very impressive to say the least). However, I just couldn’t shake the feeling that the band would rather have been somewhere else. In the right environment I’m sure they would put on an absolutely spell binding show…. But maybe a Sunday night in Birmingham wasn’t the time or place. Its worth noting that the audiences reaction to Built to Spills set was largely very enthusiastic, and comments I’ve heard from others since though the show have also been quite positive, so maybe my view of the bands performance is more to do with the musical genres that I prefer rather than the band themselves… I would suggest you listen to their music, see them live and make your own minds up ! http://www.myspace.com/builttospill The ‘construction’ of amplifiers (I’ve seen smaller houses) that began to take shape following the end of Built to Spills set helped me regain some interest in the evenings show. I’ve never seen amps set up on stage facing back towards the band either, so the cocoon that Jay Mascis was having erected was definitely ‘interesting’. As soon as the band took to the stage (following a brief apology regarding the lack of regular drummer Murph due to illness) it was clear that this was going to be a loud show! And boy.. for a three piece these guys can seriously make some noise. At times I’m afraid the sound in the Academy really didn’t do Jay’s vocals any justice as they appeared to get lost in the mix somewhat, but bearing in mind the wizardry that he performs with his guitar it didn’t really effect the performance greatly. As with Built to Spill, there was very little interaction between the band and the crowd, and the regular re-tuning sessions did start to annoy me after a while, but the sensational performances of every song and the energy displayed by the band helped to keep my attention throughout the set. Highlights for me included ‘Wagon’ and ‘Out There’, as well as a great cover of The Cures ‘Just Like Heaven’. Whilst the evening’s show didn’t leave me buzzing as others have done recently, I did come to appreciate quite why Dinosaur Jr are held in such high regard. They are indeed a seminal band and I feel very lucky to have been able to have see them live. Set List Thumb Budge No Bones Imagination Blind Wagon Pieces Out There Feel the Pain Over It Kracked Freak Scene Swan Just Like Heaven www.dinosaurjr.com
Review: John Colson Pictures: John Colson
www.virtuouscirclephotography.com
Special Thanks: Midlands Rocks www.midlandsrocks.co.uk
Coockoo Review Do you feel your head nodding? Your body beginning to move? Don’t worry it’s nothing serious just the infectious dance jams of Coockoo getting under your skin. Hailing from Moscow and garnering accolades in the underground Russian music scene. This isn’t surprising because Coockoo bring the sultry and fuzzy songs that wouldn’t sound out of a place on a darker Shiny Toy Guns record, or a lighter hearted Yeah Yeah Yeah’s song. Take one glance at “Ne Discotheque” and its infectious chorus will stay under your skin for days, follow that up with the sweaty bass stomp and pomp of “Groupies’ Anthem (F.U.C.K.)” and you’ll be sold for many late nights to come.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? Maria: To be honest, we didn’t try to put any sense in the name of the band. We just thought COOCKOO will look beautiful. Egor: First I disliked the name, now I like it. For me it means absolutely nothing. Maria: Egor used to be a manager in his pre-music life. And we can’t blame him) How the band started?? Maria: About a year ago I decided to make a band and met Ded and Egor in one of the bars in Moscow. Actually, I just wanted someone to pay for my cocktail, but they stayed in my life a bit longer than just for a drink. At first I was a little embarrassed of Egor’s tail and Ded’s three ears, but lately I got used to it. Ded: At that time I served on the Rimual border, we’ve taken a prisoner. She told us, her name was Nicole, but we called her Masha. We treated her with honey and decided to make a band called OOOOKOOO. Then we wrote the name of the band with jam on the wall. Some parts of it got dry, peeled off; so the name transformed into COOCKOO. Egor: That’s our Ded! (Laughing) Anton: And I wanted to sell my guitar in the Internet, but clicked on an advertisement of starting a band instead. Maria: We all just turned out to be in the right place at the right time. What's the message to transmit with your music? Ded: We use centenary encoding system. Egor: We are transmitting the message that is already in your head; we just kind of help.
What's your method at the time of writing a song?? Maria: We are lucky to be raised and educated in different cities and social environment. Each of us has got his own favorite bands, unique incomprehensible inner life. Our music is a child that gets from every parent its own: character, shape, heart. That is why when we gather for the rehearsal, we never know what we get by the evening: acoustic ballad or some kind of electro-trash. Ded: Everything starts with a sketch, which inspires everyone to write its own part. We make a song until we are wild about it. Sometimes nothing remains from the first variant. It is probably connected with new wishes and new standards. We’ve written the album and dotted changes in these songs; at least for a while. Anton: Sometimes we write a song for several weeks and don’t understand what exactly we want to get. Everything seems to be right, but something is missing. Then comes the moment that brings changes and we get the right thing in just one evening, spontaneously. Which is your music influences?? Maria: Before I met guys I loved music to dance and not to think. Franz Ferdinand, Arctic Monkeys etc. Under these influences we wrote our first hit Groupies’ Anthem (F.U.C.K). It was a really good hook for people to know us. Ded: I’ve always been listening to King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Radiohead, electronic music, jazz. Anton: Pink Floyd, Radiohead – are not to be discussed. Everything else depends on the mood. Oasis, Kasabian, etc. Zhenya: Mainly the Bashkir folklore. What plans do you guys have for the future?? Maria: We are vainglorious enough. Since I was at school I was dreaming about stadiums singing my songs. It’ll definitely happen one day. I have also a dream to live in a castle in Scotland. But these are consequences. We strongly believe that music is saving the world in everyday battles with the routine. There are some problems with it in Russia. The quality suffers. Everyone try to convince us that Russian band has no chances to become popular in the world. But the thing that is really important is the precedent. And we do our best to establish this precedent. Anton: I wish not to know which day of the week is now, just wake up every morning and realize that the only task for you today is to play the guitar. However, of course, it is not the task, it’s a great fun! Egor: We want to help people become a little bit happier: Massively. Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? Maria: We were recording our album “Cosmoventura“in Rome, living in a flat right by the Coliseum. The day before our departure, Zhenya (drummer) forgot the keys inside the flat (like in old European comedies). So we had to spend the last night in Rome sleeping in the old car of our friend Marco. I guess, it wasn’t really funny, but still it was our little Italian adventure… Cosmo venture) Anton: As we strongly believe, our drummer Zhenya turns into a pigeon from time to time. Once in Venice he was trying to bully a seagull, but it appeared to be a tough bird and stuck up for itself. Zhenya: Yeah, looks like I’m a trouble man...Seriously. If you guys were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, ¿Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, ¿Who would you eat first? Anton: I think we all are too thin to eat someone. .. Maria: Anyway, I would definitely go to find any help, just because I’m the tastiest and it would be safer to be alone in the middle of nowhere than with a bunch of hungry musicians. And the other thing is that I am the only one who’s got a dragon, so I can find help faster than anyone else in our band. Zhenya: First of all I’d eat Ded, he is too slow; then Egor, he is whiner; then Masha for a dessert. And then the most powerful part of the band will be saved. Which country you guys would love to play? Maria: I’m afraid we won’t be original in our wish to play in Great Britain. With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? Anton: It is my old dream to play with a band of Norwegian gerontologists that deal with problems of fish aging for the whole life. I find these people quite interesting and talented musicians. Maria: …yeah, right, and Radiohead, of course. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? Egor: Totally
Check out more from Coockoo by going to: www.myspace.com/coockooband
Danielle Lubené Review With a catchy and enjoyable sound and vocals make an awesome combination. Danielle Lubené composed very good music pieces which should be heard; and as an addition, we can say that a very bright future awaits...
Interview How did you started?? Music has always been an enormous part of my life; at times I would say it was even a mode of survival for me. I began composing songs in my head as a young girl, around the age of 9 or 10 years old. I was given a stripped and disassembled Fender Telecaster when I was 23, had it rebuilt and learned to play. From that moment forward I’ve been actively writing, recording and performing - for over 20 years! What's the message to transmit with your music?? Can range from pure emotion to spiritual to edgy angst…I usually write from personal experience or observation, but I also channel story-songs by way of stream of consciousness writing. In the end, my message is typically one of hope or joy, even if spoken through sorrow or something darker. What's your method at the time of writting a song?? I typically write lyrics first, develop a melody then write the music around it, although occasionally I will write music and then apply lyrics that fit the mood.
Which is your music influences?? Kate Bush, Joe Jackson, The Ramones, X, 999, Patti Smith, Iggy Pop and the Stooges, Blondie, Laurie Anderson, Bob Mould What plans do you have for the future?? To continue writing and performing music. - I hope to be on tour by the fall! Also, to begin showing my artwork, as I have also been a photographer for 30 years (both photographs I have given are self-portraits) and I paint in watercolor, as well. Which has been the funniest prank you have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? Well, this is not quite a prank, but pretty funny, nonetheless…we just played a show in New York City at a venue that had a Strip Club next door. After my set, we took two of my fans (females!!) next door to get lap dances…I’ll leave the rest to the imagination. I’m still laughing about it!! If you and you band (if any) were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, ¿Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, ¿Who would you eat first? Well, I’d have to be the one to go get the help because I’m the one with the best sense of direction. As far as who’d we eat…hmmm, I’d have to say my backup singer because both the drummer and bass player are actually chefs, so they’d know how to prepare her nicely, and I need my guitar player – he’s my right hand man!! Which country you would love to play? Why yours, actually!! And then the UK. With which bands you would love to share stage?? Iggy and the Stooges, Bob Mould (and Hüsker Dü) Are you OK, with the direction the band is going actually? I’ve been planting a lot of seeds and this garden is finally beginning to really grow – so, yes, I am delighted with the direction we are headed!!
Check out more of Danielle Lubené www.daniellelubene.com
Evan Spade Review Evan Spade from Dallas, Texas brings the world an inspirational sound to your ears with great guitar, vocals and lyrics. Evan gladly agreed to set aside some time for the readers of Vents. Here’s the interview during his travels in Europe about his band Evan Spade…
Interview Melissa: How did Evan Spade form? Evan Spade: Well Melissa, to make a long story short, The band was formed a few years ago after both my brother Steven Vegas (drums), & I, left Canada (Quebec city) to land in Dallas, Texas where we met singer/songwriter Bart Van Bemmel from New York (Guitar/Back Vocals) who had won the inaugural VH-1 Across America Contest. Band mate Barak Seguin (Bass/Back Vocals) was the last member to join the band about 2 years ago. After a few years working on many failed music projects (imagine, I was even a bass player on 1 of these projects lol), we started over with new songs, a fresher approach to our style & songwriting. That gave birth to Evan Spade. Melissa: What or who are your influences? Evan Spade: We all grew up on the East Coast or close enough so we have been influenced by quite the same bands & artists. Our main influences growing up were U2, Duran Duran, The Police, Bryan Adams, Bon Jovi, The Cure, Oasis, Phil Collins, Pink Floyd, The Beatles as well as some glam rock bands from the 80’s. A lot of People make fun of the 80’s but I think some of the most talented guitar heroes come from that era. That said, I am today also influenced by many current artists such as The Killers, Coldplay, One Republic, John Mayer, The Fray, Phoenix, Daughtry, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood etc… I’m always opened to new influences & new music Melissa: What comes first when you make music? Melody or lyrics? Evan Spade: Melody is usually what comes first. You either hear a riff or a melody in your head or it comes by accident while playing guitar. For our 1st single Human Cannonball though, lyrics came first and that in only a few minutes; Bart was the one who came up with it. He started singing the first few lines like someone would sing their favorite song. We took the guitars, added to it; the song was finished a few days later.
Melissa: The song Bird’s Eye View (BEV), what inspired this song? Evan Spade: An ex-girlfriend! Most of our songs are written from past relationships & talk about love but love who took a wrong turn, breakups. That’s what the first album is all about. It’s a very personal one. That song BEV is actually the first song that was written for Evan Spade. I remember sitting in the living room with Bart & sparks were flying! Most of the music was written & completed after a few hours. We finished the lyrics a few days after. You know sometimes we make bad choices, mistakes that we regret for a long time. This one is a true story inspired by a friend who broke up with his fiancé but soon realized she was his soul mate. He gets a call from her after all this time & she wants to meet him. On his way there, he’s hoping & praying he might have a chance to buy back the past, ask for forgiveness & start over with her. He rehearsed what he was going to tell her face to face for months. When he finally gets to meet her, she’s standing there, with this other guy, with her new fiancé. “I’m losing faith in this chase…” “So I’ll save…a place...for you...in my heartache” This is the story that started it all. Melissa: How has the support been from family, friends & fans? Evan Spade: The support has always been amazing from everybody. My parents always encouraged us to go for our dreams & try our best to make them happen even if it meant being away from home. It helps a lot when you are going through hard times in your career, without support, many artists would disappear without leaving a trace. I’m really close to my fans. I do my best to message them personally. It’s my way of saying thanks for everything, you know. If you believe in what you do, you communicate this to your fans. You’ll earn their respect & they will support you no matter what. That’s the Evan Spade philosophy lol! So many artists when they have their big break don’t keep a good relationship with their fans, which I don’t understand since without the fans, an artist is just another artist & wouldn’t be there. Melissa: What was the last album you bought? Evan Spade: MUSE “The Resistance” Melissa: What are your interests outside music? Evan Spade: I love to travel, I think I’m addicted to it now lol. I’m also into movies & video production. In the music business, you always have to back yourself up with a plan B so Steven & I started a small video production company in Dallas (Texas). We specialize in music videos. The two videos you can see on MySpace or YouTube were produced by us. Melissa: Any upcoming gigs in the US or in the world? Evan Spade: No shows are booked just yet. We are still working on the 1st album so we won’t go on tour until the album is finished. Meanwhile, we’ll try to get on a few festivals (US, Canada & Europe) this summer to warm us up & see how people react to Evan Spade & their new songs lol. Our music has been added to the MTV licensing catalog so it means you might hear a few of our songs playing in your favorite reality show or series soon. It is not confirmed yet but we keep our fingers crossed. Melissa: Where do you see yourself in 5 years time? Evan Spade: Well that’s always a good question. A friend of mine, a fan actually, who is a bit of a psychic said we would win a Grammy in 2012 but they predicted the end of the world during the same year! I hope they’ll let me get my hands on my Grammy 1st lol! If not, well, you’ll be coming to Evan Spade’s World tour in London at the Wembley Stadium or the O2 arena. People will be singing our songs during American Idol & the X factor maybe we would be there as special guests too lol! I’ll take over Bono’s agenda to save Africa & start my own clothing company. Watch out Jay-Z! Evan Spade is coming! Melissa: Advice to those wanting to start a band… Evan Spade: Don’t give up because you don’t succeed right away! It takes time! When U2, even The Police started playing, they were constantly booed! They didn’t give up, look where they are now! Don’t let anyone decide if you are good or not. Don’t wait for people to come help you. You might wait for a long time! Nowadays musicians need to be entrepreneurs so read about the music business, information is essential. You need great music but what will make you succeed is who you know! Build a network, build a fan base; it’s never been easier now with the internet & all those websites created for unsigned artists. Last, BELIEVE in yourself. If you don’t believe in your talent, no one will. Hope it helps ;) Listen to Evan Spade and get the latest info on Evan Spade on the following: www.myspace.com/Evanspade www.youtube.com/evanspade
Indofin Review Swirling, Smokey, sticky, and completely enjoyable, the musicians in Indofin have created a simultaneously spaced out, euphonic, and bluesy, take on reggae, rock, and bits of hip-hop thrown in for good measure. Already a force in the Austin Texas scene, with appearances at SXSW in 2003-2007, and a spot on the Texas dates of the Warped Tour, they seem poised to spread there music of love, drugs, and good times further and further. One thing you should know though, they aren’t just another Sublime rip off band, though there are similarities to the Long Beach legends, the sounds of Indofin are uniquely their own, and the laid back grooves and Hip-Hop lyrical nuances on “Boozer Holiday“, along with the space mutant intro and fast upstrokes on the ska-punk number “Zanbar” prove this point nicely. So relax, gather with friends, and let Indofin take you away to the good times.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? Albert: I don't think it was ever supposed to mean anything, but its loosely tied in with smoking weed or smoking indo, which we love doing, and it sounds kind of like Endorphin, which is the chemical in the human body that makes you feel good. I think the name of the band probably was just from lack of a better idea for a band name. How the band started?? I answered an ad in the paper for a bassist who had his own gear, transportation, and weed. Seriously thats what the ad said. What's the message to transmit with your music?? Our songs tend to be about tragic events, relationship problems, pain of living, struggles in the music industry...Even though our music seems to sound upbeat and people like to dance to it at shows, if you really read into the lyrics, the songs are usually about dark issues, or dark times in our lives. Whether there's really a message in our songs, I really don't know. But we are a trifecta of racial diversity just between the three band members, we're against war and we support peace and unity, we don't really respect the government, we support the death penalty for dangerous criminals, and we support legalization of drugs, but we hate junkies. I think politically we're kinda in.the middle, but some of us probably leans towards the Republicans regarding certain issues. What's your method at the time of writting a song?? Our songs are pretty simple, just verse chorus structures, three chord melodies, almost always the same time signatures, usually the lyrics come last and we try to record demos of new songs we start working on because often times, we forget. I don't think we ever sit down with the intention of writing a new song, they just kinda happen at our practices, and if we hear or play something amazing, we'll either record it or make a strong effort to remember the parts we just played.
Which is your music influences?? We all grew up in the 90s, so we pretty much grew up on alternative/ grunge and then later punk, and bands like Sublime, Nirvana, Rancid, Bad Religion, 311, Chili Peppers, Fishbone, etc.. I played in a few different types of bands before Indofin, TJ used to play drums in a death metal band, and Donny's always been into reggae/dub/ambient type stuff and some hiphop. What plans do you guys have for the future?? Its anyone's guess at the moment. We just got done recording our second full length album which we are releasing in July this summer. We also got added to the lineup of Wakarusa Fest in Ozark AR, in June 2010 and we're pretty excited about that. Donny's slowly leaving the band so we've been auditioning a couple new drummers, our buddy Ryan from Champa in Dallas will be filling in on drums for Donny at Wakarusa and Jason from Champa will be playing additional lead guitar. And we'll be doing our CD Release party in July w/ our old friends UnderThe Gun and The Buzzkillers, and also a newer reggae band in Austin called Root Dimension, it should be a blast! Besides that we really don't know what the future holds, more shows I suppose. Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? This one band once locked TJ in their trailer with a naked man for like 30 seconds or a minute or so.... If you guys were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, 多Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, 多Who would you eat first? Donny would probably be the one who went to look for help, or to find cooking supplies! TJ would definitely be the one to get eaten first just because of body weight and fat. If they decided to eat my skinny ass they would probably still be hungry after I'm reduced to bones. Which country you guys would love to play? Japan or Europe With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? Sublime, Rancid, 311, a lot of bands we've wanted to open for are actually playing at Wakarusa this summer like Slightly Stoopid, Rebelution, Passafire, Fishbone, etc. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? Considering that we almost called it quits about a year ago, the current direction is better than we ever could have expected.
Check out more Indofin by going to: www.myspace.com/indofin
Jared Costa Review My first impression of Jared Costa’s music is that it reminds me greatly of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’ and ‘Devils and Dust’ albums. The songs seem to deliver an air of optimism in what can be a dark and lonely world; Beautiful acoustic folk music by an obviously talented and skilful songwriter from Pennsylvania.
Interview How did you started? I got started when I was around ten playing harmonica and writing lyrics. Before long, I got invited to sing in a friend's band. Back then, we played harder rock. When we lost one of our guitarists, I gave a crack at trying the guitar. I took to it pretty quickly and really loved playing. After years of bouncing around similar hard rock bands, I felt like I wasn't quite getting my sound across. So one day while writing for the band, I was sitting with my acoustic guitar and I realized this was not the beginning of the song. It was the song. After that, I went off on my own and began incorporating harmonica. I never looked back. I've been lucky enough to have played big stages and toured large venues on my own as a solist and it really feels right. It offers some benefits that you can't have as a band. I can write a new song and plug it into a set almost immediately. Of course, there are benefits that a band setting offers that soloists don't enjoy, but it's a trade off that I am really happy with. I can't imagine not playing solo at this point, but who knows what will happen in the future. What's the message to transmit with your music?? JARED COSTA: I hope to convey a message of positivity. I do write with an introspection that may be seen as a clouded sky type of imagery, but I do try to add the silver lining. I hope that comes through and I think it does on my album "Onwards & Upwards" which is my debut album. What's your method at the time of writing a song? JARED COSTA: I have always tried to maintain the process of creating and songwriting to be as organic and natural a process as I could. I don't have a particular method. So I have a place that I go to in my mind that I find a center that allows my songs to come out.
Which is your music influences? JARED COSTA: I am influenced by so much music. I listen to a ton of songwriters. Some of the most influential artists for me are Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Jim, Croce, Steve Forbert, and Cat Stevens. Bands have influenced me as well. Some of them are The Band, The Doors, The Counting Crows, and Blues Traveler. VENTS: What plans do you guys have for the future? JARED COSTA: I am working on a follow-up to my album "Onwards & Upwards" right now. I just got off of a tour of about 20 cities. It was so much fun that I really want to get back out on the road and do something a little more substantial in the coming months, and I will be doing a lot of gigs and some festivals and music conferences over the summer. VENTS: Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? JARED COSTA: Well, it's not so much a prank as it was a funny situation. About a year ago while playing a festival over 3 days, I was meeting up with some other musicians playing the festival. We planned on meeting at a hotel room and doing some jamming and hanging out a bit. We were sitting in the room and playing for a while and waiting for Rob, the only person yet to arrive. As a song ended, there was a quick moment of silence in the room that was interrupted by the noise of the hotel management yelling outside. At that moment, the guy who was having us hang out in his room says "OH!" So someone says, "oh, what?" He replies: "this is 230. I got my wires crossed and text'ed Rob 320!" So needless to say, we had to change locations because Rob had been terrifying some folks by banging on the strangers' door for about 20 minutes at around 3:30 in the morning and was kicked out of the hotel! It's still something I laugh at today. VENTS: Which country you would love to play? JARED COSTA: I love to play anywhere. The US is amazing to see from the road. I traveled cross-country a few times and have been through quite a few states all over the country. I love being on the road and travelling to different shows and venues. Outside the US, I would love to play any country in the UK as some of my first choices. VENTS: With which bands you would love to share stage?? JARED COSTA: Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, and actually any of the bands I mentioned among my biggest influences would be a dream come true to share a stage. But with that said, I am a music fan and I really enjoy listening to any band that I share a bill to discover new music. I am very lucky to be able to play, but it's such a bonus that every venue I play is also a show I am able to go to. VENTS: Are you OK, with the direction you are going actually? JARED COSTA: Absolutely, I am heading in the right direction! I am moving ahead nicely: playing shows, promoting, and writing. I really hope that this album will continue to push my career and that I will be able to hone in on a sound that will be definitive and honest. I hope that I can reach people and move them with my music and that they will, in turn, become fans. I think that as long as I'm playing, I'm headed in the right direction.
Check out Jared Costa: www.myspace.com/jaredcosta1
The Murder Mouse Blues Band Review
Clap your hands and stomp your feet, because this here’s a revelation. Murder Mouse Blues Band, equal parts Bob Dylan country barn stormers, Tom Waits scratchy drawl and lyrical musings, fiery blues, and even a dash of the Pogues, celtic pomp and mysticism, walk a fine line of timeless sounds, and form a contemporary take on the influences that show brightly in their songs. The interesting thing about these broad range of influences however is that the band are located in Australia, which does not scream the musical flourishes abounding in their songs. Though, it seems being located on an island once home to prisoners, thieves, and murderers have seeped into the tales they spin, check out the haunting “Death Letter Blues” and raucous “Apocalypse Blues” for proof. Given the chance the electricity of this power-trio can take you under (pun fully intended) I suggest you let them take you.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? We chose the name as it rolls off the tongue well, as for the meaning? the music really defines the bands name, i think whatever a band calls itself the music redefines whatever the words are to a new meaning. How the band started? I was playing in an folk based band with no drummer and i really wanted a drummer, I knew Jon cause he sat in on sessions with the band from time to time, i told Jon what i was thinking, Jon knew a drummer so he introduced us all, we played, drank and went swimming and before we knew it we were a band. What's the message to transmit with your music?? Nothing but fun Rafa, playing in a rhythm based folk blues country Irish Rock band is a serious amount of fun. About as much fun as you can have with all your clothes still on.
What's your method at the time of writing a song? The song already exists, you just have to listen to it reveal itself. Rodin said of sculpture if you want to make a horse, you take a piece of marble and remove everything away that isn't a horse. That's pretty much the same for good songwriting, let it flow, the horse is in there already.
Which is your music influences?? Major influences are Shane MacGowan, Nina Simone, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson What plans do you guys have for the future?? We'd love nothing more than to play for the rest of our lives, in whatever capacity that comes in-but if we could pick and choose we'd really love to play support on a Nick Cave tour. Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show? We're not really in to pranks sorry guys, we played at a couple of wineries and breweries in the South West of West Australian, after the first set of one of the gigs a local helicopter pilot invited us for a free ride in his chopper, he flew us out over the ocean, through the wine country and had us back in 15 minutes in time for the 2nd set, that was a good gig. If you guys were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, 多Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, 多Who would you eat first? I've seen what the other guys in band put into their bodies so there's no way i'd eat either of them, i'd probably go and find help, the other 2 would then be left to reenact Waiting for Godot Which country you guys would love to play? Ireland, Canada, US With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? Mumford and Sons, Christy Moore, the Popes and Hank Williams Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? Musically we're in good shape at the moment, we're in the middle of recording the 2nd album and the live shows are scorching. We don't have a direction as such, we just play what organically occurs, so if it's blues or Irish or Folk or Country or a mix of all of them, whatever is happening is happening.
Check out more TMMBB: www.myspace.com/themurdermousebluesband
You Vs Me Review You Vs Me, based in Toronto, Canada have a trendy Alternative/Indie/Rock flavour. I got in touch with Mykle (Vocals and Guitarist of the band) who kindly agreed to me chatting/interviewing them all via MSN Messenger on a Saturday night for the UK and a Saturday afternoon in Canada...
Interview Melissa (Interviewer) says: Hi Mykle Mykle (You Vs Me) says: There you are! haha Hi! We're all here... just been working on a new song, so it's all good. Melissa says: Cool let’s begin So how did you guys form? Mykle says: Well... the gist is that Chris P and I were working together and one shift there was a bit of a toxic chemical spill, so we went back to my place to sort of recuperate Chris picked up one of my guitars and just started playing... so I joined in, and we just decided to see where it'd go. We ended up writing about 3 or 4 songs that day that was 5 or so years ago... Roddo and Curly joined up more recently. We’ve been through many bassists and drummers, and had to find the right guys. They really provide a more Massive Attack sound to the live show, which is what we wanted from the beginning, but had to really sift through the clutter to find. Melissa says: Oh that sounds great. Thank goodness for the chem spill! Mykle says: Hehe. Yeah. Melissa says: Where did you get the name You Vs Me? What made you decide upon that as a band name?
Mykle says: It just seemed to come about organically... we noticed it was an ongoing theme in our lyrics and it kept coming up in some way, shape/form. Melissa says: Cool, actually that was one of the attractions to yourselves, I think a lot of people can relate to the band name. Who are your influences? Mykle says: Mykle: Jimi & Jimmy, Muse, most 80's and 90's rock/pop/metal, CHris P: Beatles, Hawksley Workman, Van Morrison, a lot of 2000 Canadian indie rock. Curly: Protest The Hero, Blink 182, All That Remains, Lamb of God, Queen, Oasis, Stone Roses Roddo: Metallica, Iron Maiden, Protest The Hero. Melissa says: Great mix of bands there. Ok, so what was the last album you bought? Mykle says: Mykle: Afterparty "Soft City" Chris P: yeah yeah yeah's new disc Curly: Flatliners "Cavalcade" Roddo: Avenged Sevenfold "City of Evil" Melissa says: Nice choices. The track Someday, is it about anyone or anything significant? Mykle says: Chris P: The song came about from a fight with a good friend. The sentiment behind it is that we should all have appreciation and respect for one another or it'll all be lost. Melissa says: Good insight. What interests do you have outside "You Vs Me "? Are you into different things or is it mainly music 24/7? Mykle says: Well... Curly's into skateboarding, I am into amateur medicine, Chris P is into claymation and film making, and Roddo is into whatever is on the Hills 3 weeks ago. music was my (Mykle) hobby before ... so yeah, I’m pretty limited in my resume there Melissa says: Amateur medicine sounds well interesting!!! Really cool stuff guys. Next question: How has the support been with family, friends, fans etc? Mykle says: Family and friends have always been there for us. They’ve been really really great and we certainly owe them a huge debt of gratitude, but the fan base lately has been picking up more and more. It’s kinda nice to see... almost overwhelming. Our CD wasn’t released until recently, so without any media support, the growth has been basically by word of mouth, which is really awesome. Melissa says: I don’t see why not, you have great music to deliver. Do you have any gigs planned around and out of Canada? Mykle says: We're playing a Canada Day Festival on Canada Day, which is pretty awesome. Ottawa on July 2nd and a few shows in and around Toronto before then Canada's a hard place to get out of, which is a bit of a catch for us as our fan base seems to be largest out in the UK and Australia. Australia's been really great actually. We're kinda keen on going to UK somehow. Melissa says: Well it’s either you guys come here (UK) or we’ll have to go to Canada! Ok, a big question which gets a lot of people thinking including myself, where do you see yourselves in 5yrs time??? Mykle says: Touring Australia and beyond. For real, we've got a lot of time, effort and love into this, so we see ourselves still doing what we're doing (hopefully just on a larger scale, or on any scale we want, for that matter). Melissa says: Brilliant - keep the passion alive and you will go far... Last Question: What’s your advice to those wanting to start a band? Mykle says: Focus on being great. Do whatever you wanna do, just be excellent at it! Melissa says: Great advice. Ok this wraps up the interview. It's been great chatting and I am ever so grateful for the internet to be able to speak/chat with bands across the globe... Thank you so much for your time. Mykle says: Ain't it grand?! Any time, say hi to everyone for us! Melissa says: I absolutely will. It's been great and I am sure we will speak soon You guys are great and keep it up!!! Take care and have a great day Mykle says: Thank you very very much. Bye For more info on You Vs Me, please visit the following: www.youvsmeband.com www.myspace.com/youvsmeband www.reverbnation.com/youvsme
Durojaiye Versatile Review Even with the chopped and diced beats that compromise Versatile’s songs, it is clear to see his influences. From the electronic tribal drums to the melodic guitar counterpoint, and piano plunks, he channels the likes of renowned beat maker J Dilla, and disparate indie artists such Portishead, in his funk, jazz, and eclectic mix of sounds. Which is prevalent on many tracks in his repertoire, including “Stay and Enjoy Life” a funky mix of lounging bass and synth on top of a bouncy guitar riff, to the angelic choir notes and hip-hop drums of “The Day After.” This combination, serves as a very enjoyable take on the mix-and-match nature of beat production, and stands heads and tails above the pack of wannabes.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? Durojaiye means stay and enjoy life, Versatile means the ability to do a variety of things well. Outside of my family, music is life and I'm confident whatever style I do I do it well! How the band started?? Well, it's just me, I started collecting old jazz and soul 45's and LP's at 14-15 and started putting tracks together at 19. What's the message to transmit with your music?? I believe we all share the same types of experiences, whatever I feel someone else does as well. So, when someone listens to the music not only can they relate; but they will have their own experience as well. What's your method at the time of writting a song? I don't really have one. What ever I'm feeling at the time I sit down is what comes out. However, nine times out of ten I start with drums.
Which is your music influences?? I have a lot of influences, my experiences, family, friends, life really. Musically... Jazz, Soul, Rock, Folk, you name if I listened to it growing up, except Country. What plans do you guys have for the future?? Right now its all about letting people know I exist, just a lot of promotion. I do have another album just about done and we're looking to release it in December of this year or earlier. Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? I wouldn't say prank, however I was setting up to spin at a show while an artists was performing, I had no idea that they were running sound through the DJ mixer (small place). I'm having trouble seeing where to plug the tables in, so I pull the mixer out a tad and before I knew it my finger hit the power button and no sound. Luckily, it was during a break while they were figuring out what song to do next. Ooops! If you guys were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, 多Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, 多Who would you eat first? That's a hard one because it would be more than likely just me, so I don't think I could look for help and eat myself at the same time. Which country you guys would love to play? Any country, I would love just to be able to travel abroad doing music and site seeing. With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? I would love to do something with Massive Attack, Thom Yorke/Radiohead and Portishead just to name a few. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? Yes, the direction is releasing music for life's experiences and I believe that's what I'm doing and will continue to do.
Check out more of Durojaiye: www.myspace.com/durojaiyev
Takashi Kamide Review If you’re looking for something different in the world of over-processed musical pap, and pop starlets lip synching, then look no further than Takashi Kamide from Japan. Kamide who started out on classical and jazz piano, decided to switch to a very underused and instrument in today’s music culture, the accordion. While this may seem strange to most people, one listen to his songs will dispel any doubt. Like the calming waves of “a child is born“, to the melancholy dissonance of “mermaid”, to a cover of the Beatles song “Norwegian Wood” that shows the contemporary ability of the instrument in its psychedelic journey. Thus, on the basis of originality alone, you should give Kamide before musical ingenuity drowns in the mirror- image sameness of today’s musical climate.
Interview How did you begin? I used to play the jazz piano —playing accordion for me was just hobby at that time— but I've listened classical accordion (mostly J.S. Back.....I love J.S. Back so much), I've recognized accordion is not only using world music or traditional music also that has possibility to make new sounds. When I started play accordion, I used piano key accordion; but now, I'm using button accordion (usually called "chromatic accordion") and left side base part is unique system called "free base". It can play single note as same as like piano or organ, same key range. What’s your message? Music always link with personality who makes music, I think. This is the copy from my website under here. When he was 7 years old, had cancer, and lost his left foot due to cancer. After that, he conquered completely the cancer with 17 years old. But then he had another illness that was unknown; there was no medical treatment for that. It looked he was going to die, because he couldn't eat anything, and also lost weight from half of his body. It was a very difficult situation to recover from 0 to completely. But what saved him was simply saying "LOVE". At that time, he hated all of things, but his mother, father, and many friends did had hope he was going to recover , and they were praying while he was fighting with the illness. When he realized that, he kicked out illness forever!!! His doctor said, “This is a miracle". Now, he believes there are many miracles on the world, it can be found easily, if you have love. For him, playing music is one of great gift from love.
What’s your method at the time of writting a song? I studied Jazz method and classical music method. I like some of pop music :) There are many way how to makes music I think. Making music is a tool for telling people what I feel, what I move... More important that make music, is sharing feeling with many people. I mean mostly, feeling and passion are important methods. What’s your music influences? I would like to share with many people what I feel and what I move. What plans do you have for the future? There is a plan to release new album on iTunes and Amazon in this autumn. All of songs are original compositions. I would like many people to listen my music on the entire world. If you and your band (If any) were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, ¿Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, ¿Who would you eat first? When I go to play the show, my girlfriend is always with me. maybe she would eat me, ha ha ha ha. Which country you would love to play? I played in Austin SXSW 2010, it was fantastic time. I would like to play again. With which bands you would love to share stage with?? I have no idea; I hope meet someone who I don't know. I mean its chance to see other great musician. Are you OK, with the direction the band is going actually? I'm playing solo; there is no trouble with person :)
Check out more Kamide: http://www.myspace.com/kamide
The Aviation Orange Review Like a saccharine 80’s movie soundtrack, a moment becomes very memorable, The Aviation Orange aim to be that moment. With soaring synth and echo laden guitars, they craft melodies reminiscent of Tears for Fears, The Cure, and The Smiths. So don’t be afraid to put on your leg warmers on during the warm and inviting “Radio” or don a neon headband and 90’s grunge plaid with the bouncy and stark “Lost In The West End.” Basically, if you were born in the past few decades, your should be right at home in the grooves that the Aviation Orange are laying before you.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? If we told we'd have to kill you. How the band started?? The band began with Mike (vocals, guitar) and Alex (guitar) in upstate New York. Slowly through the wonder of the internet we found Josh (drums) and Hana(Vocals, Synth). The sound of the band evolved as new members joined. What's the message to transmit with your music?? I wouldn't say there is one unifying message behind TAO songs. It's more about us taking our musical influence and striving to write good songs that reflect our lives and tastes. What's your method at the time of writting a song?? Usually someone comes in with a structure or a sound and the band builds the song up from that. Lyrics are usually the last thing written, but not always.
Which is your music influences?? The Smiths, New Order, The Pixies, Psychedelic Furs... a lot of 80's stuff. What plans do you guys have for the future?? We'll we are working on a follow up EP to our debut, which came out last year. Should be out this summer. We will also be playing the Kahbang festival in Maine in august, we are excited for that show. Which country you guys would love to play? Japan, for sure. With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? Wow, so many, most have broken up, or have dead members. To play with Morrissey would be amazing. Modern bands: the Yeah, Yeah Yeahs, Wild Beasts. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? We better be.
Check out more The Aviation Orange: www.myspace.com/theaviationorange
The Cajunga Review
‘ The Cajunga’ are a four piece rock band from Finland. Perfectly performed and exceptionally well produced rock tunes underpinned by some very catchy pop hooks. Just when the songs don’t seem to offer any more, they add in a new twist to keep the attention.
Interview What's the meaning behind the band's name? The Cajunga is an adjective from the movie Wane's World starring Mike Myers. The word it self means something like 'extremely huge”. All of us in the band grew up watching bad 80's movies and we all especially love the Wane's World movies so it seems like a great name for us. And what is better than having a huge name?! How the band started?? The band started out under another name about ten years ago when we all met back in high school. After moving from our old hometown to Turku, Finland in 2006 we won the national band competition Turku Bandstand in 2007. We cut our debut album Dancing With the Boys last year with producer Brian Fitzpatrick and it was released the 8th of February this year. Even though we have been together for a while the band still feels fresh to us and to our fans since we had to switch names last year due to legal issues. What's the message to transmit with your music?? In general we hope that people get a good vibe from our music and that they have a good time at our shows. We want to make people feel good and take care of each other. The most political message we carry is that people should think for them selves and not follow every one else in life. We don't have much time here on this earth so why not make something meaningfull out of it. Peace & Love to everyone.
What's your method at the time of writting a song?? Me, Oskar (vocals & guitars) and Joel (Guitars & Vocals) write all of our material. I'm more lyrics oriented while Joel is more in to the musical part. We come up with our own ideas and combine them into our music. Then we make the arrangements together at rehearsals together with the rest of the band. It's important for us that the music sounds like a band and not like a product made in a studio. That is why we want all of the elements involved to play their own part when it comes to the arrangements. Which is your music influences?? Personally i listen to alot of american indie rock and alternative country music. Writers and bands like The Greaful Dead, The Band, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Bob Dylan and more temporary stuff like Ryan Adams, Dawes and Wallflowers. All of us in the band have grown up listening to classic rock music, mostly stealing records from our parents. Stuff like Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Deep Purple and other 60's and 70's rockers have had a major impact on our music. What plans do you guys have for the future?? We just released our debut album Dancing With the Boys here in Finland and we are touring pretty consistantly this spring and summer. A new single with a music video from the album will be out this summer and we are starting the pre production for our follow up is about to start next week. Hopefully will go on tour to the rest of Northern Europe in the beginning of next year and also release our next album sometimes next year. Which has been the funniest prank you guys have been or took part while on tour or after a show?? We haven't had that many pranks on us although there are a few interesting memories. Last time we were in Helsinki Viktor and Joel scared all the girls away from a bar by dancing on the tables wearing almost nothing but sunglasses. Generally we are very kind boys. If you guys were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you guys are, 多Who would you guys send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other, 多Who would you eat first? Interesting question. I think we would send out Viktor to search for help since he's in the best physical shape of all of us. Maybe that way we could have a chance of getting some help. Myself I probably couldn't do the 65 mile run/walk without having a heart attack or something similar. We would deffinately eat our drummer since he has the biggest muscles. He is maybe also the only one who would agree to be eaten by the others. Which country you guys would love to play? Every country that will have us. With which bands you guys would love to share stage?? Led Zeppelin with John Bonham but they would probably kick our asses of the stage. Other than that I guess any band that are willing to share the stage with us. Are you guys OK, with the direction the band is going actually? Yes we are. We are excited by the gigs we have coming up and the recording of our next record. For news and updates on the band please check out www.thecajunga.com and www.myspace.com/thecajunga.
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While Lucas was going to his house and Henry was God knows where, the prisoner was up on a small hill in the village of the 'unmarked', which many called The Fortress, because of the big size and because few of the people, not very smart really, always said, it is uncertain whether joking or for real: that if an attack someday happened, with the hill, the enemy was not going to be able to attack them. These people were not as smart, as mentioned earlier, and why, because of the height of the hill; but if a dart, an arrow or anything else the enemy used in that case, could easily fly and kill the inhabitants from the top. And now, a dart, an arrow, an enemy was lurking and approached them, and neither the hill, was going to be able to help them. The prisoner changed his look. Instead of having the old look of hatred that would have been incalculable moments ago in the castle; his eyes now was full of cunning, a cunning evil. While the villagers walked, talked or lounging in their spare time, the prisoner with his eyes followed them one by one; looking for his victim. When he was imprisoned in the Ares, one could say that the prisoner was not doing anything but waiting. But let us not forget that we are talking about the father of despair. So while people enjoyed the millennium of peace, a world without that horrible thing called evil, or more specifically, sin, the prisoner was planning to attack. He knew each of the so-called "unmarked" or as he called them: pigs. ' Pigs were removed from the dirty to a clean and spotless barn� was the ideology of the prisoner. "But how many of them would be able to handle when the dirt return to them. Who would not return to wallow in the mud? It's easy to be good at cleaning, but not on the dirt. " He had planned his plan not playing, not wasting time. "I do not have much time" told the son and father to the prisoner when they spoke of the event. And in fact it was so, unlike the fallen world, where their presence was essential to the balance of the world, good and evil, now in this new land, this land incorruptible, his presence was unworthy. "I'm just like a puppet" the prisoner thought angrily. After several minutes of observing from here to there, he found his victim and who he would use to sneak and deceive the people. "Besides you can not enter as a new citizen, after a thousand years absence. Perhaps there are people stupid, but there are many who do not, and immediately they may took you under suspicion “recognized the prisoner. So leaving behind a bush where he was hiding, he began to descend through the forest of the village, which was about 20 meters away from where he were and people were living. And slyly inching towards the village, sang to himself a song from a movie of the old life, when he had power, though the lyrics were not exactly the song lyrics, he gave a damn, and just sang:
“ Bad pigs, Bad pigs, what are you all going to do? What are all you going to do? When dirt come for all of you? ÂŞ And so he entered the village.
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