2014 CVSW April

APRIL 2014

THE Custom Lifestyle Magazine for Custom Vehicle and Music Enthusiasts

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Contents...

Cover Photo by Sherry Keith

Rock Calendar

3

Gear the Pros Use Guitarists: Timm Tantrum & Ace Adonis

13

NAMM Coverage: Conference Information

14

Equipment Review: Mojo Hand FX

16

News You Can Use; Cars...Different Drivetrains

20

Order in the Chaos; Brien DeChristopher’s Music Blog

28

Las Vegas Nightlife; Kevin Lastovica

32

News You Can Use; Motorcycles...more Riding in the Rain

34

LANI LINTON: Versus the World & Authority ZERO

36

Tattoo Gallery...readers send in pics of favorite tattoos

38

CV Southwest Magazine

Locally Owned / Nationally Known

Jamie Paulus Pure Sin Photography steps it up this month with TOOL, from their show in Spokane, WA. Come look through his lens at some of the biggest stars in music.

Page 30

Sherry Keith Mystic Photography in Concert puts you front and center for some of the hottest acts in the business: this month, Adelita’s Way. Page 12

Contact Us: Info@cvworldwidemagazine.com

CV SOUTHWEST MAGAZINE © 2012-13 is published monthly and NO reproduction of content is permitted without Publisher’s prior approval. Publisher assumes no financial responsibility for the errors in ads beyond the cost of space occupied by error. Publisher is not liable for: any slandering of an individual, or group as we mean no malice or individual criticism at any time; nor are we responsible for the opinions or comments of our columnists; and promises, coupons, or lack of fulfillment from advertisers who are solely responsible for the content of their ads.

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Doc's Angels Arena Tribute Arena Tribute Arena Tribute the JES Project Daze Gone By Jordan Allena Smashing Alice Threedom Rock Jordan Allena Mr Scary Threedom Rock Threedom Rock Jordan Allena the JES Project Heavy Honey Jordan Allena LA Story Jordan Allena Smashing Alice the JES Project Brad Bailey the JES Project Jordan Allena Vile Child Cyanide Jordan Allena ROXX Jordan Allena Smashing Alice Daze Gone By Jordan Allena T.O.D. Vile Child the JES Project

Fremont St Main St Stage Las Vegas, NV Fremont St Main St Stage Las Vegas, NV Fremont St Main St Stage Las Vegas, NV Fremont St Main St Stage Las Vegas, NV Shifty's Las Vegas, NV Babe's Rockin Sports Bar Las Vegas, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN the Dive Bar Las Vegas, NV Fiesta Henderson (CoCo Lounge) Henderson, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN Vamp'd Las Vegas, NV Fiesta Henderson (CoCo Lounge) Henderson, NV Vamp'd Las Vegas, NV Belcourt Taps Nashville, TN Shifty's Las Vegas, NV the Beauty Bar Las Vegas, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN the Dive Bar Las Vegas, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN the Firehouse St George, UT Babe's Rockin Sports Bar Las Vegas, NV LVCS Las Vegas, NV the Association Tavern Las Vegas, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN BB's Clubhouse Las Vegas, NV Vamp'd Las Vegas, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN Babes Henderson, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN Vamp'd Las Vegas, NV E-String Bar & Grill Henderson, NV Bellesque Nashville (Anthem) Nashville, TN BB's Clubhouse Las Vegas, NV Cheyenne Saloon Las Vegas, NV the Association Tavern Las Vegas, NV

Hailing from the hot music city of Phoenix, singer Timm Tantrum and the boys in Snake City Playboys only want to bring us back to an earlier age when life was one big party and people rocked out to down home ass kicking music.

CV SouthWest spent time with Timm talking about the band, their rise in Phoenix, and how music is the cure for all ills. The Doctor is in, and his prescription is screaming guitars and pounding drums…his diagnosis? “Rock and Roll is Good Medicine!”

<CV SW> Yes, we admit, same old intro question…tell our readers who's in the band and their role: Timm Tantrum: Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar Jay Sin: Vocals, Bass Guitar Ace Adonis: Guitar Bill Jackson: Drums <CV SW> Who founded the band originally, how did snake city playboys come about? <TT> I founded the band around 2010. I had been thing together that had a bit more staying power. I writing songs with Psycho Gypsy and was in teamed back up with Eddie Electra and that's when "Music Mode" when the Psycho Gypsy had to take Psycho Gypsy came about. With Snake City Playan unexpected hiatus due to a family emergency. I boys I wanted to take it more Sleaze than Glam. A was still in creative mode and needed to get that bit more rough around the edges if you will. out so that's where the idea of SCP came from. <CV SW> Talk to us about the journey to find <CV SW> Tell us about the journey…the bands the right combination of musicians for SCP… you‟ve played with in the past, and the desire to <TT> It really was quite a journey. It started out finally pull together this group… as a 3 piece, just me, a bass player and a drummer. <TT> I've been playing since I was 15 years old. I The first drummer we had wound up having to joined my first band when I was 16. It was a band move to California. It was sad because he was a called Widdow with Eddie Electra (Psycho Gypsy, really good drummer and a great, straight up guy.

Peppermint Creeps, Pretty Boy Floyd). That band We found another guy pretty quickly who was an never got out of the garage really so it sort of sput- incredible drummer by the name of Sean. Sean is tered out quickly. I played in various other bands the drummer you hear on the debut album. The after that. I was in a band called "Crimson Steel" former bass player left due to a lot of drama and for a while and another called "Mischief" which was replaced by our current bass player Jay Sin was really fun. Mischief was my first band that (who was actually our bass tech). I'd gone to see played out in real music venues. That lasted about him play in a cover band he was in and knew he a year so after that I really wanted to pull some- was the guy for the job. After Jay was in I decided

think works so well? <TT> We have different music backgrounds but the exact same goal. I never wanted this band to be 4 guys that listened to the exact same music. I wanted different ideas to compliment my own. Jay Sin comes from a musical family. His grandfather is the late Jimmy Wakely, who was a country superstar back in the 50‘s and 60‘s and who played with the likes of people like James Burton. Jay is from that bloodline yet loves Black Label Society.

Ace listens to everything from Cinderella to Cradle Of Filth and everything in between. This gives him a keen musical ear and can take songs in directions to make the band my original vision, which was a the rest of us wouldn't have thought of. He's also 4 piece band. We hired a local guitar player that, an excellent piano player. Bill is a straight up no like our first drummer and bass player, only lasted BS hard hitting rock n roll drummer which is exa few months. After he was out my son Ace asked actly what a band like this needs to drive us. me if he could audition. He waited in line with everyone else, but when he played with us every- <CV SW> Of course we have to ask…father & one in the band agreed he made it sound like it was son…how does that work, personally and creasupposed to sound. The most recent to join was tively?

Bill Jackson. Sean's life outside of music became <TT> It works incredibly. We have an amazing more and more busy and he couldn't put in the amount of respect for each other which is key. time that he thought it deserved. At the time Jay There's never tension in the band and he's not and I had a side project doing cover songs. Bill was treated any differently than anyone else in the the drummer of that band and I loved his style. I band. At home he's my son but within the music gave him a CD and scheduled an audition at my house. He nailed it. The lineup today is the tightest and most fun it's ever been. <CV SW> Tell us about the name, where did it come from? <TT> I've always loved bands that had 3 word band names that had an homage to their hometown in their name. New York Dolls, Bay City Rollers that type of thing. I didn't want the name to just come out and say the name of our hometown directly. I wanted a name that kind of described the town without naming it specifically.

The term "Snake City" came to mind. It's meant to refer to snakes of both the animal AND people variety, which folks from any big city in America can relate to. "Playboys" we figured was a great descriptive term for the Rock-n-Roll lifestyle. Not just referring to girls but motorcycles, fast cars, good food, hitting the road and living life while we're alive. With the different personalities within the band we really are Playboys from Snake City. <CV SW> What is it about this quartet that you

recently at an SCP show with the original drummer Kevin Thurman and original guitar player Joey Carter. <CV SW> With all your experience, Timm, what is it that you take from the past to ensure the future success of SCP? <TT> It's OK to make mistakes but learn from them and move on. We did a lot of things right in Psycho Gypsy and a lot of things wrong. I bring the experience of both what to do and what NOT to do which only makes SCP that much stronger. world he's Ace Adonis of Snake City Playboys

<CV SW> Do you guys have a favorite place to play? <CV SW> Let‟s talk about Ace…having a father <TT> Music venues are all so different it's hard to in rock n roll, was it always his destiny to be a say. I guess it depends on the town. I love both the musician, or did he freely choose it?

Whiskey and The Roxy in LA. Best place we've <TT> I think both. Everyone in my family is musi- played in Arizona was The Marquee Theater when cally inclined and Ace was no different. He picked we did a show with Mr Big. We now have a very up a guitar because he wanted to not because it special place in our heart for LVCS in Las Vegas. was expected of him. But looking back that's how After our last show there we all agreed it was one all of us in my family did it. It's not really a of our favorites. planned thing that all of us play guitar we just do <CV SW> Have you had any particularly memo<CV SW> Who are your musical influences? rable shows to date? <TT> Oh, wow, such a broad spectrum there. I <TT> LVCS with Lizzy Borden. like the stuff you might expect like Kiss, Cinderella and Motley Crue but I also like some of the heavi- <CV SW> Why was that particular show memoer stuff like Rob Zombie, Iron Maiden, Avenged rable?

Sevenfold and even some stuff people might not <TT> It was the only show we've had where there expect at all. I like really old country Hank Wil- was really nothing bad to say. Sometimes you liams Sr, Johnny Cash and am a huge fan of the don't get along with a club owner, promoter or anoriginators of Rock N Roll which I mention in the other band on the bill. At the LVCS show everylyrics of "Rock N Roll is Good Medicine" Elvis, one was professional and even cool just to sit and Little Richard etc. However after a rehearsal or hang out with. From the security to the other show and having hours of loud rock music blasted bands we just had an absolute blast and look foraround me I like to chill with Mozart, Bach or Beethoven. <CV SW> Are you still involved with Psycho Gypsy at all? <TT> Psycho Gypsy took its hiatus in 2010 but we never really went anywhere. Right now my energy is focused into Snake City Playboys but Psycho Gypsy could arise anywhere at any moment. Eddie Electra and I are never not in the mood to throw on so much make up that it shocks and offends people. I'm willing to bet you haven't seen the last of Psycho Gypsy. I did a 3 song Psycho Gypsy jam

show? <TT> Energy. Anyone in this band would use their last heartbeat to entertain the fans <CV SW> Do any of your songs speak to you on a deep personal level? <TT> There's a song on the album called "Live It Up". Back in 2006 I got a phone call from Psycho Gypsy drummer Mykel Geyman. He said he had a guitar riff stuck in his head and didn't know why but felt he HAD to tell me about it right away. Being a drummer he just sang the riff to me over the phone. I sat down and recorded the guitar line on my 4 track. Hours later Mykel died in a motorcycle accident. Everytime I hear the main guitar line I think of that last moment speaking to him.

ward to doing it again.

<CV SW> Even being only what, nearly 4 years old, how have you guys grown as a band and as musicians from the early days? <TT> Just from the fact that we have grown together. We learn something from each other every day because we're all open to it and nobody in the band thinks they are smarter than the other. The day you think you know everything is the day you stop growing.

<CV SW> What is it about your music that you feel appeals to fans? <CV SW> Where do you think you are in the <TT> It's honest. There's nothing contrived about journey of SCP? what we're doing. When we write a song we just <TT> Well asking where would imply there's a let that song grow naturally. We don't try to make destination. We only care about the journey and things sound a certain way; everything is very or- all the experiences that come with it. Being there ganic, which is something music has really lost in will never be half as fun as getting there. the last couple of decades. Every year it seems to get worse. Everything is very plastic, packaged au- <CV SW> What other bands to you guys listen to tuned and released. Bands on the billboard to during downtime and relaxation? charts don't stay on there for very long because the <TT> Depends on the day and who you ask. artists that are being pushed today cannot hold an- LOL! Pick anything between Olivia Newton-John yone's attention for very long. We take a more and Cannibal Corpse. honest approach. The fans that like our songs now will still like them 20 years from now. I've had fans <CV SW> If you could tour with one act, who tell me they bought the CD, put it in their car and would it be? the CD has not left the CD player since. We're <TT> Toss up between Motley Crue, Kiss or Iron talking months here. ―Dark Side of The Moon‖ by Maiden. We've always played our best when we Pink Floyd was on the charts from 1973 to 1988. knew someone on the bill that night was gonna You will not see Nicki Minaj or One Direction al- give us a run for our money. Put us with the best of bums that are out today 15 years from now unless live acts and you'll get the best out of us. it's in a bin at Goodwill. <CV SW> Tell us your thoughts on the Phoenix <CV SW> What can fans expect to see at a music scene? Do you believe it‟s a major music

scene, or is it just where you hang your hat in be- has been somewhere you haven't been just ask how they got there. tween tours? <TT> We have an unbelievable talent pool here.

An untapped one I might add. If the right A&R <CV SW> 2011 is capped off by playing with the guy looked at this place it would explode like LA Gin Blossoms at the Fiesta Bowl NYE party… tell us how that came about… in the 80‘s or Seattle in the 90‘s. <TT> I was contacted by someone telling me that <CV SW> What do you think would put Phoe- they were looking for bands for the block party.

The whole thing was if you wanted your band on nix in the upper echelon of music cities? <TT> It's kind of sad to say this but the answer is the bill at the NYE Block Party you had to have money. If the talent here was promoted and ex- your fans leave a comment on their board. SCP posed to a more worldwide audience people would fans did NOT disappoint. They blew up that page buy into it really quick. Look up a band called like nothing I've ever seen.

Chemicals of Democracy. <CV SW> “Rock and Roll is Good Medicine” <CV SW> If you had one band to open for dur- takes off, both on YouTube & radio play, especially on Ron Keel‟s radio show…in the end, ing a show who would it be? while all bands want to be successful, were you <TT> I think the band we all agree on is KISS. prepared for so much success that early? <CV SW> It‟s still very early, where do you see <TT> Well every band needs an anthem. I knew if we had a song people could sing to and would be the band in 3-5 years? Idealistic and realistic? <TT> The goal is to grow this bigger and bigger. I immediately recognizable that we would get the think, though, that as long as we're still having fun we'll still be doing this as long as people keep showing up whether it's in a local music bar or The Download Festival in Europe. <CV SW> You formed in 2010, but by 2011 you were opening for Quiet Riot…not a bad feather in your cap…but it also lead to other shows with bands such as Faster Pussycat, Y&T, and Mr Big…to what do you contribute so much early success? <TT> Well in Psycho Gypsy we had to pay our dues, playing crappy venues on Tuesday nights. By the time this band rolled around I knew more of what I was doing. I knew how to promote more effectively and how to build a brand...(of course, being Timm Tantrum from Psycho Gypsy didn't hurt either) <CV SW> Being a new band at the time, but having been in the music scene for a while, were you still able to learn from playing with bands like those? <TT> I'm always learning, always asking questions. Kristy Majors from Pretty Boy Floyd taught me quite a bit. Think of it like traveling before we had Google maps. You either needed a road map or you asked directions. If you know someone that

more colorful and you didn't have all these rules to play by. You could friend somebody if you thought they would like your music. If they didn't like it they could just ignore your request. Today we have Facebook which is where everyone seems to be now. You're sent these suggestions of who to friend and then if you try and friend them your account gets blocked for your effort. Social Media is good for free promotion but it's very limiting. The best promotion is always gonna be the music itself.

As far as distribution I just see it like it was in the beginning when rock started. In the 50‘s and 60‘s you could buy someone‘s LP or you could buy the 45 single if you only wanted the hit song. Not much different from iTunes. I think if more artists realized this they would sell more because they would strive to make ALL of their songs listenable and not just 1 or 2 singles. <CV SW> The ability to market/sell individual songs, does that benefit the industry as a whole? <TT> Depends on the artist and how good the songs are. Some artists are flourishing in the digital age and some are drowning. <CV SW> So then…Social Media platforms… savvy PR tools or necessary evil? <TT> Both. I think if people got off of Facebook attention we needed. This girl I went to high and went to more shows and events the music school with who is also a gifted poet posted as her scenes everywhere would do better. As artists we status one day "Rock N Roll Is Good Medicine" have to go where our fans are. If the fans are packThe writer‘s block I had for months disappeared in ing music venues then that's where we will be. If seconds. I messaged her and asked if she and I venues are empty and everyone is on Instagram or could turn that into a song. She helped me write Facebook then that's where you force us to be. We the words and I sat down and quickly wrote music are nothing without fans so if you dig a band and to it. After I heard it recorded I knew it would you see they are playing somewhere then get off bring us at least some level of success. I've been a the damn computer and go see them play. You fan of Ron since I was a kid and was honored the never know who is going to explode and become huge. Somewhere in Germany there's a bunch of he gave airplay on a syndicated show. people that have stories about meeting the Beatles <CV SW> How, in your opinion, has the EP before they were famous. done for SCP? <TT> It's doing well. We're actually going to have <CV SW> Today, the music world seems to be to order another printing of it soon. dominated by the Cyrus‟ (and her tongue) and the Biebers…never one to shy away from contro<CV SW> Let‟s talk about the music industry versial questions, do you think Rock has to climb today…and social media…music distribution is to the forefront again? much different now, do you see that as progress? <TT> It will either way because it always does. <TT> Ah, the double edged sword of Social Me- Rock is one of the only genres that always comes dia. I was a big fan of MySpace myself. It was back to the forefront. Every 10 years the "experts"

always come out and say rock's time has passed.

Every 10 years I roll my eyes. Every fad band that was supposed to have "killed" rock are usually now found playing in little bars while AC/DC plays for 70,000 people on a regular basis. <CV SW> Does it ever get…a bit difficult…to see that sort of level of talent (although we DO think that Miley has a great voice, she just behaves like a harlot) being promoted? <TT> It's disheartening sure. Too many execs are in it for the quick buck and more and more of these disposable pop stars are cranked out. There are not many guys like Clive Davis left. For the few that are we hope to get their attention. <CV SW> Is it hard to look at that and stay true to your sound? Or do you think they will all fade away and it‟ll be back to old fashioned ass kicking rock again? <TT> It will never be hard to stay true to our sound because we love what we do. I'd rather be poor and happy than rich and miserable. There isn't enough money in the world that would convince us to be "One Direction". If we were offered that kind of money to play pop music I think we'd use that opportunity to be known as the band that shoved a million dollars up someone's ass. <CV SW> Your label is “all DIY bitches!” why do you think that DIY is the way to go for SCP? Is there something you feel you can get from DIY that you wouldn‟t get from a label? <TT> Freedom. If a label came along that offered us a deal that would include us continuing to be who we are then sure we'd take it. However if some douchebag in a 3 piece suit wants to tell us we need to sound more like <insert popular band here> then we'll take DIY and keep making the music our fans to this day refuse to take out of their CD players. <CV SW> Ok, it‟s early 2014 what can we expect from the band this year? <TT> MORE!!! New songs, more videos, more live shows. This will be a great year for SCP to be sure.

SNAKE CITY PLAYBOYS

Gear the Pros Use! Snake City Playboys’ Timm & Ace

Timm Tantrum and Ace Adonis Timm and Ace are a father and son guitar duo that know how to play off of each other well. Timm’s rock credentials date as far back as the early 90s with the Glam Rock outfit Psycho Gypsy. The influences between these two is a broad range which makes for a unique chemistry. They’re guitar influences range from Cinderella to Cradle Of Filth and everything in between. To accomplish the big rock sound they each have their own tones but through similar equipment. Ace’s tone has more metal distortion and Timm’s distortion is scaled back and more bluesy as to bulk up the overall sound.

Guitars: They have quite a collection ranging from a classic 89’ 24 fret Peavey Tracer Custom to a collection of Ibanez and Schecter guitars.

Timm’s current favorites are the Peavey Tracer and a Schecter Hellraiser with active EMG pickups.

Ace on the other hand plays primarily Ibanez.

Amps: Typically Marshall and Randall but we’re always experimenting with different tones. The album was recorded with everything from Peavey Solid state amps to Blackstar all tube half stacks.

Kaminari Guitar Cables Digitech RP 500 Guitar Effects Intune Custom Guitar Picks

Global Music Product Industry‟s Passion Reflected at 2014 NAMM Show The four-day annual event proves once again that the music community knows how to have a great time while still taking care of business.

Carlsbad, CA, January 27, 2014—The music product industry returns to businesses in every corner of the globe with a renewed confidence following the 2014 NAMM Show held in Anaheim, Calif., January 23-26. Promising signs of revitalization brought together more than 5,000 brands from around the world looking to reach the global buying audience found at the NAMM Show. Expanding product categories such as technology-driven music products and emerging brands pushed the show to its one of its largest and most diverse editions ever. ―As the global platform for the music products industry, the NAMM Show is an annual In total, 96,129 members of the music product incheckup for what is happening in the music mar- dustry registered for the 2014 NAMM Show. ketplace worldwide,‖ said Joe Lamond, president Exhibitors noted that crowds arrived eager and CEO of NAMM. ―A focus on doing business for new products and ready to get down to busireflected confidence among buyers and manufacturers alike. Fortified with NAMM U education, ness. "I don't know what's going on, but this year is networking and fun opportunities that only occur phenomenal; we have been slammed! The buyers at the NAMM Show, NAMM Members expressed are buying!‖ said Ari Baron, vice president of marto me a renewed spirit for the year ahead. I believe keting for Eastman Music Company. Dave Smith of his eponymous instrument brand also saw a lot that the stage is set for growth in 2014.‖ of traffic, "NAMM is the only trade show we atEmerging brands, growth in pro audio and tend. This is it -- the hub of our outreach, our PR, the music technology category, and an increase in our marketing. We meet with our current dealers, international exhibitors, converged for the second - sign up new dealers, and show artists our new inhighest exhibiting company number ever. In total struments so they can play them and hear how there were 1,533 exhibiting companies representing they perform. We've been incredibly busy the 5,010 Brands. Meeting those brands was a 2% in- whole show!" crease in buyers over 2013. Buyers arrived in AnaRetailers large and small return to their busiheim focused on rebuilding inventory after a strong school music season, and on building up categories nesses with new product lines and categories that currently experiencing strong consumer demand. will hit shelves in a matter of months. ―I‘m most

focused on meeting up with major suppliers that I‘ve done business with or do business with and seeing what they‘ve got––new products in particular,‖ said Richard Ash, CEO of Sam Ash Music. ―We are also looking for new companies that come out of the woodwork and have a product that will break through to the marketplace. If you‘re a musician, it‘s the ultimate kid in a candy store thing.‖ up more than one-third of the total exhibiting companies. These companies come from 49 different In addition to products, retailers search for countries to unveil their brands‘ new products at valuable ideas gleaned from five full days of educa- the show. tional offerings. ―I come for inspiration and I always find it,‖ said Rob Kittle of Kittle‘s Music in About NAMM North Platte, NE. ―I find products I never knew The National Association of Music Merwere out there. The buying I do and the things I chants (NAMM) is the not-for-profit association see at the NAMM Show definitely influence my with a mission to strengthen the $17 billion music business for the year.‖ products industry and promote the pleasures and benefits of making music. NAMM's activities and New entrepreneurs and categories entering programs are designed to promote music making the music market brought 303 new exhibiting com- to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of appanies to the show. NAMM Membership and in proximately 9,000 Member companies located in turn the NAMM Show is increasingly global, as more than 87 countries. For more information reflected in the 6% increase in international at- about NAMM or the proven benefits of making tendees. The global scope of the NAMM Show is music, interested parties can visit www.namm.org, most clear walking the show floor. This year 636 call 800.767.NAMM (6266) or follow the organiexhibitors from outside of the United States made zation on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Gear Review: MOJO HAND FX DMBL OVERDRIVE

T

By CV WorldWide Equipment Consultant Jason Constantine

tone. Allowing you the option to use the gain control on the pedal to dial up the amount of drive you his month we bring you a review of like. the mighty DMBL Overdrive from Mojo Hand The Gain control can dial everything from FX. Mojo Hand FX has been in the biz for quite a few years now, making amazing pedals like the zero boost to full on rock distortion. I find this is a Rook Overdrive and the Iron Bell Overdrive. The great wide array of distortion possibilities allowing have so many flavors of overdrives in their catalog you to dial in more gain on cleaner amps and back off on am amps overdrive channel. The versatility its like Baskin Robbins! is quite surprising. On the clean channel of a FendNew to the family is the DMBL Overdrive er Deluxe I was able to coax everything from Fat which is like its namesake (if you can‘t figure it out round Jazzy clean tones to thick bottomed rock it‘s an amp Stevie Ray Vaughn made very popu- tones. Great job by the guys at Mojo Hand FX for lar). This 4 knob little monster offers up a variety really putting thought into how much gain to allow of tones and tone shaping options. Everything you to dial in. from slight voicing changes to full on rock distorThe Treble and Bass control are pretty self tion is available in this little box. explanatory. They are very musical, and never On the front you have 5 controls. Gain, Vol- shrill or overly flubby. Again a great choice of ume, Treble, and Bass knobs along with a mini where the voicings for each control sit, which gives toggle to change the pedals voicing. The Volume you maximum tonal flexibility. control the overall volume of the effect, and in a cool little change from most overdrive pedals Probably the best feature of this pedal is the doesn‘t really push the front of the amp at full vol- mini switch on the front end. In the UP position, ume. This is nice as it lets the pedal really color the which gives you a rounder sound with a flatter EQ,

the effect is really noticeable the more gain you have dialed in. In the DOWN position the pedal comes to life for me and the tones that I like. There is a very pronounced midrange bite that any rock player will LOVE. It thickens up the tone as well giving you a massive sound without getting overly bassy.

For me this is an amazing overdrive and one thing really worth mentioning which I think gets overlooked with alot of other overdrives is the noise floor. This pedal is amazingly quiet. Even with the gain on full blast it is much quieter than every other overdrive in my collection.

For more information on the DMBL Overdrive check out http://www.mojohandfx.com.

All About Front-, Rear-, Four-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive

by John O'Dell, Senior Editor - Edmunds.com - Reprinted with Permission

The number of trucks, SUVs and cars in which all four wheels get power from the engine has grown remarkably since the 1980s, to the point that almost one-third of all passenger cars and trucks sold in the U.S. in 2013 had either all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems.

The numbers suggest that two-wheel drive just isn't enough for many consumers.

Still, most passenger cars sold in the U.S. today use a two-wheel-drive system in which the entire drive package — engine, transmission, differential and the wheels that are driven by the engine — are Rear Wheel Versus Front Wheel all in the front of the vehicle.

Compared to rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive It is called front-wheel drive (FWD) and has be- reduces weight and production cost, improves fuel come ubiquitous in cars since the late 1970s. economy and typically delivers better traction.

That's because the weight of the engine and transTrucks, though, as well as many SUVs and some mission is directly over the driven wheels. cars, still use rear-wheel-drive (RWD) systems, in which a long driveshaft transmits power from the Rear-wheel drive offers better initial acceleration engine in the front of the vehicle to the driven than does FWD when a quick start is of the eswheels at the back. A differential is used to let the sence. That's because weight is transferred to the power from the driveshaft make a 90-degree turn rear of the car upon accelerating, thus boosting so it can get to the wheels. These are still two- traction. RWD also permits expert drivers to use wheel-drive vehicles. various techniques to slide the rear end around corners, which is a skill most useful in racing. AddiWith all those choices, what's right for you? tionally, by keeping part of the drivetrain in the It all comes down to what you need most from rear, RWD cars usually have weight distribution your vehicle in terms of passenger and cargo capa- closer to the optimal 50 percent front/50 percent bilities, as well as what kinds of terrain and weath- rear than can be achieved with a FWD system: Equal weight distribution improves a vehicle's er conditions you deal with on a regular basis. overall balance and handling.

A low-slung sports car with rear-wheel drive is not a good choice if you live at the top of a steep hill In two-wheel-drive trucks, RWD is essential beaccessible via a rutted dirt road that usually is bur- cause the back of the truck is so light that putting ied under ice and snow all winter and slick with the entire drive system up front would make an mud all spring. Nor is a raised four-wheel-drive empty pickup nearly impossible to drive. The rear utility vehicle with huge knobby tires ideal for the wheels would almost be floating and could easily driver whose daily commute via a nicely paved lose contact with the surface on even moderately highway is from a suburban house to a high-rise bumpy roads. Conversely, adding load in the rear of a RWD truck or SUV that's hauling cargo or a office in a metropolitan downtown area.

towing a trailer or boat improves traction. Having More About All Four the driven wheels close to the point where the trail- Choosing between AWD and 4WD used to be fairer is connected to the vehicle (via an articulated ly simple — one was for sporty cars on pavement hitch) also helps with steering while towing. and one for trucks and SUVs on rugged mountain trails.

The development of anti-lock braking and traction control systems has greatly improved two-wheel- "But, really, today there's no clear line between alldrive systems' handling characteristics, however. wheel and four-wheel drive" from a technical viewAnd for many drivers, a two-wheel-drive system point, says Dave Herzog, lead engineer on Chrysler's Jeep Grand Cherokee. Most car shoppers — with traction control is all they'll ever need. and automakers — still adhere to the distinction of But for those who do need more, four-wheel and 4WD for off-road and AWD for on-road, he says, all-wheel drive offer increased handling capabili- but Chrysler, for instance, sells an all-wheel-drive ties. They're especially helpful on slick, loose or Durango SUV and a 4WD Jeep Cherokee with slippery surfaces, because they can direct power to nearly the same systems. the wheels that have the most traction. They can also help with some towing chores, such as pulling Four-wheel-drive systems are usually found on vehicles with raised ground clearance, shielded unboats up wet, slippery launch ramps. derbodies, tow hooks and big, knobby tires. AWD Good Tires Are Critical systems can be found on everything from lowIn most cases, a vehicle's tires can be more im- slung sports cars to SUVs of all stripes. That inportant than the number of wheels being driven. cludes SUVs that are mild models designed for socFor example, many sporty AWD cars boast good cer moms and pops and wild line-toppers aimed at dry traction but are sold with summer tires that rock stars and celebutantes. They also can be highmake them horrible to handle in the snow and ice clearance, knobby-tired models for the flannel-shirt — even with all four wheels working.

-and-hiking-boots crowd.

Here's another way to think about it: What would All-wheel-drive systems come in two styles. There perform better in the snow, a front-wheel-drive car are those with part-time or automatic AWD, in with winter tires or an AWD car with all-season which the vehicle typically operates in front-wheeldrive mode with power delivered to all four wheels tires? only when needed. And there's full-time AWD that Michelin tested this snow-tires-versus-AWD sce- delivers power to all the wheels all the time, much nario a few years ago. The front-wheel-drive car like a 4WD system except there's no extreme low with winter tires outperformed the AWD car with range for heavy-duty off-roading. all-season tires in nearly every test. The all-wheeldrive vehicle had the edge in acceleration, but Some AWD systems also offer what is commonly when it came time to hit the brakes, its braking dis- called torque vectoring, in which sensors direct entance was significantly longer than the FWD car. gine power to the wheels with the most traction, Of course, if the AWD vehicle had a full set of regardless of which end or side they are on. AWD winter tires, it would be the hands-down winner, systems typically are used for cars and crossovers but this test goes to show you the importance of and are most efficient on pavement and wellmaintained dirt and gravel roads. good tires.

Four-wheel-drive systems also come in part-time and full-time versions and typically are used in trucks and SUVs. They are designed primarily for off-road use. Part-time systems operate in twowheel-drive mode until the driver — or an onboard computer that monitors traction — decides it is time for all four wheels to share the work. Fulltime 4WD is just what its name suggests.

of some fuel efficiency: typically 4-9 percent in cars and 5-10 percent in trucks. Cost premiums for these vehicles typically run from about $1,000 up to nearly $4,000.

Because of their additional maintenance needs and lower fuel economy, they also increase total ownership costs compared to two-wheel-drive versions of the same vehicles.

But those costs can pale in comparison to the cost of repairing damage to an ill-equipped two-wheeldrive vehicle that's been operated in rugged terrain or on nasty snow- and ice-slicked roads.

Also helping to offset those extra costs is the fact that vehicles with AWD or 4WD system usually have higher resale or trade-in values than their two -wheel-drive counterparts, especially in areas where inclement winter weather and rough terrain make such systems popular.

The High and Low of It Most 4WD systems have low and high ranges that can be selected by the driver, usually with an electronic switch. Jeep's venerable Wrangler, however, still uses a floor-mounted, mechanical lever.

Whether electronic or mechanical, the 4WD's low setting provides even greater torque for pulling or climbing in an off-road environment. The setting's More About Two-Wheel Drive low gearing also makes it easier to descend steep Front-wheel-drive systems are less complex and slopes on unstable surfaces without using — and thus cheaper to make than other drivetrain sysburning up — the brakes. tems, so economics has played a role in their growThe 4WD's high setting is the default setting and is ing use. But fuel efficiency is the main reason most useful for slippery on-road situations, such as cars today are FWD models. packed snow or ice or loose sand or gravel.

When the federal government instituted the CorpoHow To Pick Your Drive rate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) program in Despite their higher costs, these four-driven-wheel the mid-1970s, automakers realized the FWD syssystems do make sense for a lot of people. They tem was a quick way to gain a few miles per galoffer greatly improved traction on all kinds of sur- lon. faces, and, depending on the system type, can improve towing ability.

Most vehicles already had their engines up front, Both AWD and 4WD introduce greater complexi- so it was a relatively simple ask to turn the motor ty to the drive system, adding both weight and sideways and connect it to the front wheels with a cost. The extra weight robs the AWDs and 4WDs couple of short drive axels. That more-compact

drivetrain improves fuel economy by reducing the accommodate it, they have that space-robbing intevehicle's overall weight and eliminating the energy rior hump down the middle of the passenger cabin. losses inherent in delivering power from the front They also need a rear differential to make the 90to the rear via a long, heavy driveshaft and differ- degree turn necessary to transfer engine power ential. from drive shaft to the rear wheels. These components add extra cost and weight to a vehicle while Keeping the motor's weight directly over the driven robbing horsepower and making RWD cars generwheels also improves acceleration and traction on ally less fuel-efficient than front-wheel-drive vehiroads made slippery with things such as water, ice, cles. sand, gravel or snow. Finally, using the front wheels to pull the car around corners also helps reRear-wheel drive also is more challenging in induce a common problem in rear-wheel-drive vehiclement weather. Without the aid of traction concles: loss of traction, or "fishtailing," when entering trol, a RWD car can more easily end up on somea curve at too much speed. body's front lawn or stuck in a ditch. Fortunately, traction control is standard on most cars and trucks The Downside of Front-Wheel Drive Despite its practical advantages, front-wheel drive today. has several performance disadvantages. Some exhibit a characteristic called "torque steer," in which Putting It All Together unequal power application to one of the front Both 4WD and AWD systems add substantial wheels causes the vehicle to pull to one side or an- weight, complexity and cost to a vehicle. They also other under heavy acceleration. Additionally, a reduce gas mileage because of increased drag on FWD vehicle's turning radius can often be greater the drivetrain. As traction control becomes more than the same vehicle with RWD. That's because common on both front- and rear-wheel-drive cars, cramming all that powertrain and drivetrain equip- the advantages to the average motorist of 4WD ment under the hood doesn't leave enough room and AWD have pretty much disappeared, as have for the front wheels to be turned as sharply as in a those of RWD. rear-wheel-drive application.

Nothing beats going into the dealership already unFWD systems also tend to wear out faster than the derstanding the differences. That's what will help less-complex RWD systems. Further, the lifespan you decide which type of drive system is right for of front tires can be compromised because so much your circumstances and help you avoid mistakes weight is placed on them and they have to handle such as buying a four-wheel-drive vehicle for your all of the acceleration and steering forces as well as daily commute in downtown Los Angeles, or a much of the braking. rear-wheel-drive sport car for exploring the ski areas of Vermont.

Ups and Downs of RWD Everything about front-wheel drive is reversed for vehicles with rear-wheel drive. Performance goes up: When you punch the accelerator pedal in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, the weight transfers to the rear end, just where you want it during acceleration. This leaves the front wheels to focus on directing the vehicle. You can also "steer" a rearwheel-drive car with the gas pedal by applying power and sliding the rear end while in a corner, although this is a tactic best reserved for expert drivers on racetracks.

This doesn't necessarily make rear-wheel drive the better configuration. RWD has its own disadvantages. RWD cars require a driveshaft and to

They need no introduction...Metal Church is back, and back with a vengeance. Kurdt, Ronny, and the boys recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the band, and released their 11th studio album in 2013, “Generation Nothing”. It’s both classic and new Metal Church, showing the maturity of the band even after all these years, yet also harkens back to the first days of their sound. It is nothing short of excellent.

In an unbelievable stroke of luck, CV SouthWest got some personal time with founder and guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof and frontman Ronny Munroe...even in this short of time their sense of artistry and commitment to their mission is evident…

Interview by Nicki Hiers of HAVEN

<CV NW> Kurdt, is it true you try work, it‘s just…it works for <CV NW> Okay, back to the said (while in San Antonio) that whatever cosmic reason. beginning (current lineup) of “finding Ronny was almost the sorts Kurdt, after you released inspiration for putting the band <CV NW> “Generation Noth“A Blur in Time”, what got you back together because of his ver- ing” - what is the significance, started writing material for MC; satility in doing the older vocals if any, of the name of the alor, were you always writing well in addition to his own bum?

(KURDT) Oh, it‘s very signifi(new) MC material in your lim- sound”? cant with the fact that there is, in (KURDT) Absolutely! ited downtime? fact, a slight theme to the record, (KURDT) That wasn‘t until after and it kinda evolved into that. <CV NW> What do you think I met Ronny. We decided on that because initially he was go- it is about THIS lineup that Generation Nothing is not necesing to be the singer for works so well, what‟s the mag- sarily about age group, it‘s more about a mindset; even though a Vanderhoof. So I was done work- ic? ing on a follow up to Blur In (KURDT) It‘s kinda one of those lot of it has to do with an age Time, and then I met him, and he factors that‘s an intangible thing, group, it‘s about the fact that for actually kept going ―yeah I will I mean it‘s the chemistry that we kids now or people that live on do that but we need to do Metal have now. Especially with the line or live on their phone, everyChurch‖ and at first I kept going addition of Rick, we are actually thing is virtual. Their friends are ―no, no, no‖ and then finally I feeling like a machine…where we virtual, their friends are fake, relented and we started working all are on the same page, we are their music is fake, it‘s all comon that and I actually heard him all in sync, and it‘s just one of puter generated. Their social life sing it and it was like ―ok we those things that you can‘t pre- is, you know, their activities are need to do this‖. So the new ma- dict, you can‘t plan it. You can‘t fake. The totality of that is the terial started being written at that pick this person, this person or result of that kind of lifestyle and point. this person and have the chemis- what has happened to society be-

that I value now in music that it didn‘t have in the earlier stuff. So it‘s my favorite album now probably because of my age, so whether the fans perceive that or not is something else again. But I like the album, I think everybody‘s performance on it is top of the line.

(RONNY) Everybody came in very prepared and vocally I think I was more consistent this time around than I had been on the previous three, it‘s really working. <CV NW> With the changing members, how have you been able to stay consistent to the MC sound?

(KURDT) I guess through the cause of that. Something that was different than prior albums? intended to bring people together, (RONNY) I think we just kind of writing process mainly. But at the the internet, has torn people apart returned to the roots of Metal same time everybody, especially and made a generation of shut- Church…Kurdt did a very good now, brings something different ins and people that have no social job of accomplishing that in my to the table. So like Ronny menskills and basically don‘t know opinion, as well as the rest of us. tioned the fact that this line up how to interact especially, when The fans are accepting it a lot bet- now has been together longer it comes to music. ter than the last three that we did. than the original line up. Ronny‘s Not that the last three were bad done more records than any of <CV NW> You “did everything at all, we did what we did but the the previous singers now, and yourselves” - writing, record- song writing process went very with this record I think people ing, producing, etc…why did well this time and the fans are are starting to accept this line up you decide to go that route, be- digging it. as Metal Church now and I think cause clearly it worked well in (KURDT) This album is definite- that has a lot to do with how we getting back to your “root ly better than the previous three, feel and how we present ourselves. Because we know people sound”? we all agree with that. are accepting this group as THE (KURDT) Well basically because we have the means to do it, <CV NW> You‟ve indicated band now. and when you have other people that this is probably your favordoing that then there is the finan- ite Metal Church album - why? <CV NW> It had been nearly cial aspect of it. But then you are (KURDT) Because it has all the what, 5 years, since your last also relinquishing control and we elements that I like, especially, album? After such a long time, don‘t need to do that anymore. now at my current age. I mean it did you feel any pressure to We have the means to do it all has the elements of what Metal “produce” with the album?

Church started off at but has the (KURDT) Oh yes, absolutely! ourselves. maturity of where we are now We knew if we came back we <CV NW> Does this album without us trying to pretend we had to make a great record. show anything from Metal are 25 years old. It still has the Church that you really haven‟t energy but it also has the produc- <CV NW> It seems to us that shown before, how might it be tion value and a lot of the things it‟s a bit “older Metal Church”

very well received.

(KURDT) Best yet.

(RONNY) The best yet, exactly.

―everything‖. I am influenced very heavily by Rush, Emerson Lake and Palmer and a lot of that stuff, but then I am very influ<CV NW> Tell us about the enced by The Sex Pistols and the “70000 Tons of Metal” – how Ramones too. did that go?

(KURDT) The Cruise? That was <CV NW> What do you think great, that was our initial reun- of the state of metal today; why aren‟t there as many new metal ion.

(RONNY) That was our catalyst bands that are really good these days? basically.

(RONNY) I think there are a lot (KURDT) Yea exactly. of great metal bands, a lot of new <CV NW> For the current tour, ones like Steel Wing, White Wizwe heard that you actually asked zard, bands like that that are for input from your fans about bringing back that old 80‘s style which songs to play for your set back again but myself I listen to a lot of different things like we in terms of sound, was that on list - is that true? were just talking about. The Winpurpose or just part of the song- (KURDT) Mmmm hmmm. ery Dogs are great, KXM is out (RONNY) Yep. writing flow?

(KURDT) We kinda knew, but there on Rat Pack records which (KURDT) Well that again was we just wanted to check. So we is George Lynch, Doug Pinnick getting back to the original roots got the greatest hits set that we of King‘s X, and Ray Luzier of of Metal Church. A lot of that will be playing until we are dead. Korn which is the same kind of was because we decided how to thing as The Winery Dogs. There do this; we do everything on our <CV NW> Who would you are a lot of great bands but there own and without major labels guys consider your primary muis also a lot of crap. and so we had to complete that sical influences? appeal, and kinda generated (KURDT) I don‘t know if there is <CV NW> Over the years something a little more organic just one individual, I think we are we‟ve had the impression that and got it back to what it was all all definitely influenced by differ- Metal has been more accepted about. And being that we were ent things which means by the mainstream overseas, enthusiastic about that I think that‘s why it kinda shows in the music; so yea there was definitely an intent… <CV NW> Talk to us about the tour…how has the reception of the fans been so far?

(RONNY) It‘s been wonderful actually. The record has been very well received, probably the best out of the three that we have done before. The band is very consistent, we are out here touring, basically a few gigs from being done, been out almost a month now and we have been

does that jive with your experi- for so long (and the theme of the ence? Is Metal more popular song “Bulletproof”), how easy outside the US then inside? is it to ignore those “keyboard (KURDT) Oh yes absolutely, critics”?

Metal has never gone away over (KURDT) You have to. I mean in Europe. In Europe they are every band out there now has to not so ready to throw away eve- deal with that, anybody in the rything, when new things come arts has to deal with that whether along they embrace it too. But it‘s movies or anything; you get they don‘t suddenly go ―wow ok somebody with an internet conwe have this really new good nection who becomes a music or stuff and now this old stuff is movie critic and a lot of guys just trash‖ and then throw it away get on there anonymously on like they do in America. sites like Blabbermouth and say (RONNY) They accept it and bad things about people because jump on the bandwagon. they think it‘s funny but they will (KURDT) Exactly, new stuff will do it anonymously. come out and they accept it, but (RONNY) You grow thick skin this stuff is still cool, the stuff we very quickly. If you don‘t you guess I have to have one. used to like is still cool, but here don‘t survive. in America it‘s like...well it‘s...I (KURDT) Exactly.

(SherryK) I’ve been on there 6 guess more so before the advent months and I still don’t know how of the internet where everybody <CV NW> Media distribution to use it. (laughter) could do their own thing. But has changed drastically, how do (KURDT) I get that, but the yeah in Europe it‘s always been you see social media - savvy thing is though, and I can say it very consistent and in America marketing tool or necessary with all honesty that it works like we are very ―drive through and evil? crazy, so as much as I would like (KURDT) It‘s both, you have to short attention‖ span theater. to be that old guy and resist do it to survive now and we are change, ya know it totally works. <CV NW> You mentioned peo- in the process of learning how to ple who are just “a computer embrace that right now. I myself <CV NW> Does the band have with an opinion” that love to am still trying to learn how to get a specific plan to leverage the hate…after being in the business myself a twitter account cuz I media distribution model in today‟s music industry, or keep it simple and use the avenues that are open as they are?

(RONNY) I think we are already doing that actually, but we are going with the trend and trying to embrace the internet as much as we can because we have to. You either sink or swim. <CV NW> MC passed the 30th anniversary of your first album, how do you keep motivated after all these years, what keeps you going?

(KURDT) Oh, it just has to be all

that money we make. (laughter) (RONNY) It‘s the love of music, that‘s it. <CV NW> Ugh, as much as we‟d like to continue, I think we need to let you guys actually go do your thang. :) (RONNY) Thank you very much for your time. (laughter) <CV NW> Any final words?

(RONNY) Thank you for your time and we are very much looking forward to getting back on the road again, but not for a month. (laughter)

To the fans out there thank - you for coming out and supporting the band, the reaction has been great and we will continue doing what we are doing for as long as we can.

From a personal standpoint, my 30 year wait was finally over. Metal Church finally brought their tour to Las Vegas!

I have been a fan from the early days; since I heard their second studio album ―The Dark‖ in 1986 I was hooked. As I was walking into The Las Vegas Country Saloon my excitement was beyond control. In a few minutes I was to meet Kurdt Vanderhoof and Ronny Munroe. Not only was I going to meet them but sit down one on one for an interview.

Ronny was sitting down waiting for their sound check and Kurdt and the rest of the guys were running around the venue looking quite busy. Ronny greeted me with a warm smile and said things were running late and for me to sit down and enjoy the upcoming sound check. The sound check…my own private show!

One by one I watched Kurdt, Ronny, Steve, Jeff, and Rick take the stage. This was a dream come true! As Kurdt picked up his guitar I found myself giggle with excitement! Ronny grabbed the mic and magic began. It was surreal, me sitting in LVCS watching my own ―personal‖ Metal Church show…truly an incredible experience…

The show at Las Vegas Country Saloon opened with some of the very best local bands in Las Vegas warming up the crowd waiting for Metal Church to hit the stage. But we all knew why people were in attendance, and the entire crowd rush the stage as the lights dimmed… horns raised high as the fans screamed ―Metal Church‖ in unison.

The show started off with ―Ton of Bricks‖…hard hitting, heavy drums, and the crowd sang along with Ronny…pure magic before my eyes. ―Start The Fire‖, ―Generation Nothing‖, ―The Dark‖, Light in the Dark‖, ―Fake Healer‖, ―Badlands‖, ―Gods of Wrath‖, ―Dead City‖ and ―Mirror of Lies‖…one by one Metal Church blasted out both new and old songs. ―Watch The Children Play‖, ―Beyond the Black‖, ―Metal Church‖, ―Hiway Star‖ and ―Human Factor‖ closed out the show.

This band is tight, plays in unison as one, their years of experience together evident in their commanding stage presence; every note pure and they give their all to their fans. I can say in all honesty, this was one of the very best shows I have had the pleasure to see…

Nicki Hiers

Order in the Chaos Helpful Guitar Tip #15 - Conquered by Persistence You ever been sitting tere practicing your guitar diligently when you get this killer riff in your head? Sure, duh... it happens all the time. Well, what if every time you tried to play it, you come out bollocks? Or, made a fool out of.

I get them all the time. And you know what?

I've successfully conquered some of them. And some of those I‘ve conquered?... I've written songs around.

I'm referring to that riff that you just never seem to get right. And, yet, it seems that every time you privately jam it comes out of your fingers to some extent... That riff that eludes you due to it's complexity, or it's unique picking pattern, or maybe it‘s speed. Maybe it‘s the riff that now you just don't even try to take on. It pops it's head up while your running through some scale or other, but instead of carrying on with it, you fumble the ball. thing about it tells you that you might want to Or, you just glaze over it and pass it by to work on check it out a little more closely. But you can't nail easier stuff that you are already fluid and confident it. Then you realize the riff that you are chasing with. may have been eluding you for YEARS! Well, I feel that passing those riffs by every If you already have a riff like this, you're altime they come around is doing two major dis- ready aware of the next step, Repetition. But mayservices to you as a player. One is that you are ig- be you don't go any further due to hang ups like I noring a KILLER opportunity to expand your mentioned above. In which case, hopefully repetiplaying and mastery over the instrument. The oth- tion can help you get past the riff. Try it. er being the dis-service you are doing in the battle between mind vs instrument (the struggle that Step 2 - Repetition: Playing it over and over will taught you in your earlier battles that scales CAN get you closer to the final goal of playing that riff be memorized, and that chords in relation to scales flawlessly. It might kill you to do it 15 or 20 times is NOT out of your realm of comprehending). in an afternoon (even if you flounder and fail executing it smoothly during each repetition). By reThe tricks I use in conquering these little dit- peating the phrase over and over, you begin to ties are PURSUIT, REPETITION, and BREAK build up muscle memory, which is in a slight way DOWN. connected to your brain memory. Muscle memory makes it easier for you to play that riff easier the Step 1 - Pursuit: You recognize the riff, and some- next time.

Step 3 - Break down: Take each little phrase of 8 notes or less (even better would be 6 or less) and make sure you are playing the proper notes while also utilizing the proper hand and fingering positions. Hand position being First Position, Second Position, Third Position, Fourth Positions on the neck. And, finger position being which fingers to use on which string and on which fret.

Hopefully you know what I am referring to on hand and finger positioning. If not, look them up on your search engine of choice. I'm not giving a free guitar lesson here…

After you are 100% certain that each fretted note is sounding pure, and fit with what your mind is hearing, then move on to the next few notes, and so on. Try to figure out each and every note and play them solidly and in the most efficient manner possible for you (color and technique can come later).

After a few visits to that riff, each day, over a week or two will find you getting smoother and smoother with that passage. Eventually, you will be playing that riff without even looking at your neck. Try it. See if I am right…

So, you see? You ARE able to conquer these things when they arise by just breaking them down, or repeat phrasing them, and then OWNING them. It really is that simple.

Brien DeChristopher Blogger/Musician http://www.blogster.com/briendechristopher/

Spokane WA was the first date on the long waited return of Tool. They played a 2 hour set of their classic songs that have been etched into our brains with the mesmerizing guitar riffs and the heart pounding drums. Maynard as expected stood in the back not allowing the lights to shine bright on him. It’s almost as if he is sending a message, Tool is not about Maynard it’s about the music it’s about how it makes you feel while you listen. You don’t need to see them. you need to feel them. Isn’t that what real rock is all about, how it makes you feel?

As for the stage that took 2 days just to set up, it was amazing. For all the fans that are more visual they got what they wanted a stage show with dark lights, lasers, LED screens displaying mind evoking images, glitter and the classic confetti.

I find it amazing that one band can only have released 4 studio albums in over 20 years last one being released 8 years ago in 2006 and still draw the crowd they do. However, when you have the pure talents of Adam Jones, Justin Chancellor, Danny Carey, and the elusive Maynard Keenan you don’t need to put out an album every year to remain one of the top rock bands of all time.

The set list included what the fans have been waiting for: “Hooker with a Penis”, “Vicarious”, “Schism”, “Pushit”, “Intension”, “Lateralus”. Then they left the stage for a brief intermission. Returning to give us Danny Carey, playing over a five minute drum solo, then concluding the show with 4 more songs “Jambi”, “Forty-Six & 2” and the all-time hit “Ænima ”, and finally leaving us with “Stinkfest”.

Tool will go down as one of the best rock shows Spokane, WA has had the privilege of hosting. A show that you won’t forget anytime soon. Tool will always be a band that plays to entice your soul and Maynard will always be the man standing in the dark out of the light. And I wouldn’t want it any other way.

March 4th, 2014

Spokane, WA

Kathleen Clarkson

The Local Music Scene in Vegas is definite- m e m b e r ‘ , ly heating up. March brought some new begin- played a nings as well as the final US show for one Las Ve- few sets to gas favorite. St. Patrick‘s Day and March Madness the regulars brought tourists by the tens of thousands to Sin down in City and you could definitely tell by the turnouts of Anthem & some of the shows.

S e v e n Smashing Alice brought their aggressive H i l l s . sound back to the Vamp‘d stage with special guests Could turn Drew Calvert from Outta the Black ROXX. Johnny Roxx and the latest lineup into a great warmed up a standing-room-only crowd for the live music bar if they bring the prices down from hard hitting S.A. boys. the tourist range. ―The Hardest Working Band in Vegas‖, the Speaking of the Anthem & Seven Hills area, Sin City Sinners. have begun their Residency at the one of the old venues that hosted ‗Hair Nation‘ a South Point Casino. They are definitely a nice wel- few years back once the Redhawk closed, the old come down to the southern part of Vegas that is Half-Shell, has reopened as The Industry. With devoid of Live Music venues since Green Valley their open top deck, with enough room for a band, Ranch‘s brilliant this place is definitely worth checking out. The ardecision to turn ea needs a good ―Redhawk Replacement‖! one of the top Tom T and the ‗Gypsy Road‘ crew rolled sounding live mu- down to Legend‟s to rock out on the east side. sic rooms into a With a lead singer that has the range to shatter Bingo Hall. Bravo glass, you have to check out this band. This Classic GVR! The Sin- Rock band should be playing a lot more venues, as ners rock it out their talent level is up there with some of the best every F r i d a y around. night. Getting the Jay Cee and the ‗Bluff Control‘ crew have sound right for been making the rounds showing off the new Friday night, lineup. Hitting up Club Fortune Casino, Tuscany check out the boys Casino, the Backstop in Boulder City and the at Vamp‘d on southwest side at Jalisco Cantina. From one end of Thursday nights, the valley to the other, this new lineup is definitely always bringing in a crowd pleaser.

Ernie theis„SICOCIS‟ took to the a special guest or Bike and Night back at theboys Gold Mine down LVCS stage with a house full of bands and two. in old Henderson. The weather is nice, the bikes down.was SICOSIS released their Right down are rocked out andit there no wayalso I was missing the Las Vegan Jizzy Pearl‘s band ‗Love latest single, Symphonic Metal; infoThe can be the road at ShakeJohn Zito Band getting things started. infaHate‘ performed their very last show in found on their Robert, fromFacebook so many page. bands there is the U.S., at Vamp‘d. Prior to taking the speare‘s Bar & mous Danny crew on tour overseas, they blew the Grill, Davyo and not enough room in the mag, sitting in with the roof off of Vegas one last time. https://www.facebook.com/sicocislv ‗Forget To Re- boys, turned things up a notch to a full house. Zito

never disappoints.

Sin City Kiss took to the latest venue to bring in local bands, the Sin City Theater at Planet Hollywood. Not the easiest place to get in and out of, but definitely worth the trouble to see these guys.

Smashing Alice followed up with their Todd Kerns from Sin City Sinners own show at PH. We‘ll keep our ears open for the progression of this venue.

Two of the hottest bands currently tearing up Sin City are taking the Vamp‘d stage just after press time for this article; ‗Outta The Black‘ & ‗Systemec‘ should light this place on fire with the level of performance this combination should bring. Systemec, just off one of the best shows Vamp‘d has seen in a long time, with local Vegas giants, nationally touring ‗Adelita‘s Way‘, and the heavy hitters in ‗Outta The Black‘, who are rumored to be bringing another original tune to the party. Without a doubt, this is going to be a capacity show.

April opens with a blowout on the 5th with VeThe new lineup from Dirty Pair-A-Dice gas‘ only Tribute took to the newest stage on the east side, to Dokken, ‗Mr. BB‘s Clubhouse for a night of hard rockScary‘. They will in‘. It seems Dallas and the boys have a be blowing the totally new direction and the sound shows. Looking for some good things roof off of coming from them in the near future. V a m p ‘ d and Yours Truly will be there celebrating yet another Birthday. A multitude of surprises are in store for this show, rumors have it. Not one to be missed.

Until Next Month…Kevin

Tips for riding in the rain Riding in the rain takes a lot of practice…not just practice, but it also takes learning proper body positioning and the likes. There's really a lot involved, and the best way is to start SLOW. 1) Tire pressure! Our panel recommends you go with 30psi on both front and rear tires (if it‘s in accepted range); we suggest you bump yours down to about the same for rain riding.

2) Throttle! *IMPORTANT* Not only do you have to keep yourself in check and be really Practice in a straight line though. It's best to get smooth when you're getting on the gas as you ALL your braking done before you start to turn-in apex/exit a turn...but you also have to compensate when riding in the wet anyhow. Pretty much in the for your somewhat limited traction when you're dry too, unless you've got somewhat advanced coming into turns. Get off the throttle sooner! skillz. Brakes are important. It's best to go into a turn too slow than it is to go in too fast…and this 3) Brakes! Here's where it gets tricky... let us break applies to wet or dry roads, really. (nyuk!) it down for ya (also applies to dry riding...which is kinda like dry humping…just differ- 4) BODY POSITIONING! Key element right ent)…you've got 100% of available traction in a here, people! It's IMPERATIVE that you get this straight line, right? When you start to lean, you're shit right! Hang off the bike! Why? Because it alticking away % marks the farther you go...off the lows you to keep the bike more upright whilst top of our head, pilot powers are "rated" at 41 de- maintaining the same speed at the same radius grees of lean angle in the wet. That means at 41 around the same corner than if you were sitting degrees of lean angle, you're using 100% of availa- square in the seat. Did that make sense? It did to ble traction, and you've got none left...hence, you me. speed up, you low-side. You get on the brakes...you low-side. So, say you were only at 35 Ok, Ok, the easiest way to give you a visual withdegrees of lean...using roughly 80% of your availa- out...well...a visual... would be to say: ble traction...that means you've got 20% left to play a) inside elbow pointed straight down at the with on the brakes. You can only get on the brakes ground. so hard, else... boom+skitter-skitter. b) outside arm straight...inside of outside arm should be resting on the tank or close to it.

But you've also got a rear brake...don't forget about c) turn your shoulders INTO the turn (i.e., face that one, as when riding in the rain, you should put the direction you want to go with your chest... your rear brakes to good use. You first gotta learn you ladies out there should be shining your ‗em though. If you start riding around and start headlights gloriously in the intended direction stabbing at the rear brake incessantly and with disof travel). regard to pressure sensitivity and the likes...well...you're gonna fall down. PRACTICE! d) look through the turn! lead with your face.

e) get your inside cheek off the seat. don't cry about how it makes your legs hurt. just do it! it's gonna help keep you from sliding the bike around and going into on-coming traffic. f) toes on the pegs…nothing worse than dragging your toes into the asphalt, upsetting the chassis/suspension/you…riders seem to feel much more planted on the bike and much more Monoprice specializes in a wide variety stable if they rotate my inside foot so that their of electronic cables, home theater equipment, toes are on the tip of the peg, and the heel of their boot is up and pushing on the heel guard networking and IT gear, mobile accessories, of the rear-sets…that will allow you to put the and other computer components and tech arch of your foot on the outside peg and apply pressure to the outside peg...which...you should equipment. Customers can easily navigate be weighting the outside peg just before you their website and choose from among more apex, and all the way through the exit. than 4,300 Monoprice branded and non4-2) BODY POSITIONING! Relax, it's gonna be okay! As long as you stay relaxed and light on the bars, keep your speed down, and make smooth throttle and brake inputs...you're gonna have a good time riding in the rain.

In closing...riding in the rain is really going to help you out when riding in the dry. You're going to eventually (if you haven't already) come across leaves in the road, gravel, dirt, animal carcasses, tic -tacs, shoes, and maybe even a pair of pliers, and run it over. Sometimes there's just no getting around it safely...it's going to happen. And because you're an experienced rain rider who's become accustomed to the feeling of little to no traction, you're not going to panic and you're gonna roll right through it with little thought.

If you practice the things we mentioned, and you stay relaxed, focused, but ready for anything, you're going enjoy riding a whole lot more. In particular, in the rain.