2014 CVSW February

FEBUARY Issue

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THE Custom Lifestyle Magazine for Car, Motorcycle, and Music Enthusiasts

Contents...

NAMM Coverage NAMM Press Release CV WorldWide NAMM Coverage Schedule Equipment Review: LEGATOR Guitars NAMM: Through the Eyes of Sherry Keith YAMAHA Products News Youse Can Use: MORE Motorcycle Safety Gear the Pros Use: Chris Sanders (LONDON, Knight Fury) Nashville Artist Profile: Masses Beware CV WorldWide “At the Show”: L.A. Guns News U Can Use: A Trucker’s Guide to Winter Driving Order in the Chaos Blog: Copyrighting your Music Special Guest Photographer: Alan Birdsell: Pamela Moore with guest Ronny Munroe

42

Sherry brings CV WorldWide her unique view into local shows: this month, in Vegas, we look at Lita Ford & the Michael Schenker Band.

Page 34

Jamie Paullus, another of our roving photographers at NAMM, brings us the first in his series of NAMM concerts: this month, the NAMM Metal Jam. Page 22

Cover Photo by Sherry Keith

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Every Mon Doc's Angels Every Thur Arena Tribute Every Fri Arena Tribute Every Sat Arena Tribute Feb 1 Smashing Alice Feb 2 Smashing Alice Feb 5 Brad Bailey Feb 7 Daze Gone By Feb 7 the Solid Suns Feb 8 Cyanide Feb 8 Daze Gone By Feb 13 Blackbox 13 Feb 13 Lynch Mob Feb 13 T.O.D. Feb 15 Future Villains Feb 21 Smashing Alice Feb 21 the Solid Suns Feb 22 Smashing Alice Feb 25 the JES Project Feb 28 Systemec Mar 17 the Solid Suns Mar 29 the Solid Suns

Fremont St Main St Stage Fremont St Main St Stage Fremont St Main St Stage Fremont St Main St Stage the DiveBar Vinyl the DiveBar Backstop Sports Pub the Cheyenne Saloon Vamp'd Backstop Sports Pub Vamp'd Vamp'd Vamp'd the Troubadour BB's Clubhouse Bar 702 the Firehouse BB's Clubhouse Vamp'd the Cheyenne Saloon Backstage Bar & Billiards

Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Boulder City, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Boulder City, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV West Hollywood, CA Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV

Like the distant uncle who always shows up to the party and just tears the place up, Nadir D’Priest is back, and he’s brought the gang with him. LONDON is back, and with Nadir leading the way, is kicking ass and taking names, like they never missed a step. Through the years LONDON has stayed true to their attitude and to their sound; now, once again, Nadir D’Priest has surrounded himself with top talent of both old and new, and is intent on finishing his conquest of the music world. I wouldn’t bet against him…

CV SouthWest is granted an audience with the king himself, Nadir D’Priest, during his ascent back to the top...like all stars, he’s a hard man to keep down...

<CV SW> As always, we start with "who's in growing up? How did you "get into music"?

I had many interests as a kid. I was in a junior milthe band and what is his/her role"? itary marching band playing drums and the bugle.

Nadir D'Priest (vocals) 30 snares and 30 bugles thundering in front of the Chris Sanders (guitars) military for a little kid was pretty bad ass. It made Alan Krigger (drums) me who I am. I rode horses with my father and sibBilly the Fist (bass) lings, did rodeos in Mexicali Baja California. I keyboards players vary helped a local band play cow bell LOL!! Lots of things to say the least. I had a lot of fun with my <CV SW> Who are your musical influences?

My musical influences vary quite a bit and I enjoy family as a kid. I was very fortunate to have a different styles. Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, Rob mom and dad, unlike some others.

Halford, Ronnie James Dio, Ian Gillian, John Anderson, Al Green, Sun House, Howling Wolfe. <CV SW> The early years were very chaotic...do you think that was just a "sign of the times" back The list gets longer but those are good examples. in the late 70's & early 80's, people jumping <CV SW> You've got a great metal voice, when around from band to band? did you first discover it was in you?

Not chaotic at all from my end. LONDON was a I discovered it when I was told to move from being force to be reckoned with and we had our shit toa drummer to singing. So I did! I then joined a gether. We built our stages, posters, banners, band of cats older than me and worked on defining props, dancers, pyro, you name it, we did it! All my style as a heavy metal front man. That‘s basi- the guys that went through LONDON went cally the beginning of my first singing gig with an through our band camp and you either endured it Orange County band called ‗Thunderbolt‘. or you did not. It was not for posers that‘s for sure!

Back then, people bounced from band to band ei<CV SW> Did you have any other interests ther by choice or by being AXED! It was just the

way things were.

for the band, what was the difference that you brought vs prior members? <CV SW> For the first few years, it was really a Yes it did! The difference was that I was a metal conveyor belt of people...Michael White left, singer and did not try to do the British Pop Rock then Henri Valentine, then founding member thing. I made changes to sound and production arNikki Sixx and Nigel Benjamin, then Blackie rangements to fit my style. I had a really high voice Lawless left and London sort of broke up for a so I needed more of a challenge. I‘d say my record while...what do you think contributed to so speaks for itself... much turnover?

I think it was a bit of many things within each one <CV SW> After your arrival London released of the names you mentioned. I was not there dur- their debut album "Non-Stop Rock" to some posing the early years, maybe Lizzie Grey and the rest itive reviews (including "London's got it if you can answer that period. I don't want to speak of want it, Non-Stop Rock, with no time to take a anyone....seems to me everyone had a priority and breath"), tell us about that recording process, wanted their own bands. how focused the band became with you at the lead. <CV SW> You joined the band in 1985 after a LONDON became a Heavy Metal band and deliv(nother) resurrection - and even then, more ered at the same time. So we looked like girls but changes to the lineup...tell us how you came to played HARD as F**K! ―Non Stop Rock‖ was my get the gig. first born and we had peanuts to record it; it was I was offered the gig by Lizzie Grey and basically not the best situation but I had delivered our first joined the band. Not much of a story, it was a bit LONDON pressing. Lots of shit happened but blurry since the party was so good! that‘s for another time. <CV SW> Your arrival really signaled a big rise <CV SW> Well, here’s your chance bro, the time is now.

Lots of shit happened like drugs, of course! And women, of course! Law enforcement...No Bueno!

Fights and basically drama all around. We had a reputation of being a bit out of control and lots of people liked to challenge us so you just have to take care of business. It seemed like many bands had this hate for LONDON and really had it in for us. The people you thought were your friends would turn on you just because someone did not like the fact that their girl was at our shows. Drama-Drama-Drama from lots of posers and wannabes, leeches and cock whores who still roam the streets to this day. We stood our ground with ―Non Stop Rock‖! You hear it on our songs; therein lies all that living that made the album what it is! A London Gem! <CV SW> "Don't Cry Wolf" in 1986, your sophomore effort, again to positive reviews, London is really taking off - yet you covered a Beatles song "Oh! Darling" - why cover that song?

Yes ―Don‘t Cry Wolf‖, my second child. This album was under a lot of pressure to deliver a soni-

maybe they became negative when I joined LONDON. LOL! The truth is that Hollywood is not to be trusted Chris. Not ever! <CV SW> The interesting conflict was that London was packing houses all around the country yet had little commercial success - what was the motivation to keep going, it had to be frustrating...so frustrating that Lizzie Grey left in 1988?

My motivation was that I had a mission and I would not give up, I have a lot of determination. I don't think Lizzie left for that reason but you can ask him directly. cally sound album so we decided that we needed to <CV SW> Still, it was a time of rock and defind someone to co-produce with and decided to bauchery, fun times, eh? go with legendary Hollywood Dog Kim Fowley YES very much so Chris! I have partied like no (The Runaways). We also had hired engineer others and still do today…but in a moderate way.

Gene Meros (Van Halen) and famed keyboard player David Carr. We recorded ―Don‘t Cry Wolf‖ <CV SW> Talk about the "rebranding" of at Track Records Studios which was an awesome "London" to "D'Priest" for the next couple of studio to be in. We were a very lucky bunch but we years...you really took over the band, in name deserved it. Not everybody was happy for us so we and status? lived it as much as possible. The Beatles tune is a I am the Chief and Commander of this Starship great choice because it is a great song and challeng- and it is about to take off again! It is my baby! It ing to me. Girls loved it so we had no problems has been abused, dissed, laughed at and many playing it. Even the hardest crowd loved it. have tried to destroy it! But we are here, we are <CV SW> "London - the Metal Years" on LONDON. NOW! LONDON is back!! Bigger, Better, LOUDER THAN HELL!!!!

YouTube (part of the documentary "The Decline of Western Civilization") - you said "this is the <CV SW> "Playa Del Rock" is released in 1990 training school for rock stars" talking about how tell us about the status of the band, the energy many of your members went on to fame with and focus at that point - there was a burst of pubother bands - but the interesting thing is that you licity and play, but ultimately the band split in didn't seem angry or bitter, everyone just seemed late 1991 - tell us about that, and your feelings to take it with amusement - did it not really both- about splitting up... er you guys much?

LONDON's "Playa Del Rock" was the album that It did not bother me a bit at that time in my life. I gave us that boost we needed. We had famed prothink it bothers me now that I am older and a little wiser. I never asked for any handouts at an early age and won't start now. There is no love in this business. I move forward and concentrate on making my own path and maybe one day we will meet up and jam! <CV SW> On that video, you make fun of the fact that outside LA/Hollywood, you guys are gods, but locally, "no one wants to know about us" - why do you think that was?

Because I believe LONDON had a lot of negative forces surrounding the band when I joined it. Or

ducer Richie Podolor (3 Dog Night, Steppenwolf, Black Oak Arkansas, Alcatraz) and engineer Bill Cooper work with us. It was one of the best times for me and the boys; we had a great studio and a great producer. We spent about 9 months at American Recording Studios with Richie Podolor and Bill Cooper. We brought in guest players like Jimmy Greenspoon on keys, B3 (3 Dog Night) Guy Babylon B3 Strings Keys (Elton John). We had a great time recording it. But also, splitting up was not hard to do at all. We had reached a point of aggression towards each other and everyone just went their own ways for the next 22 years. Now we‘re BACK! <CV SW> Nearly 20 years before your reunion show, what were you doing between 1991 & 2010? Did you *gasp* "go domestic" on us?

In 1993 I ended up putting together a funk band called WORD. We performed all around Los Angeles and out of town. After that I became project director for The Rolling Stones‘ ―VooDoo Lounge‖ CD Rom. Went on tour with them as a Multimedia Producer for the biggest band in the world, The Stones. I was featured on the cover of MultiMedia Producer Magazine and also in WIRED Magazine. I was a very lucky guy and was also a very good producer for my time with YES, the FIRE IS LIT! The Rolling Stones. After that I started working on my solo album and started writing material for my <CV SW> London is back, with Krigger & West Rock En Español album. That kept me busy and I from the old days...also, Chris Sanders, Toni also got married & became a dad. Then I moved to Aleman, & Eric Ragno...what is different today Barcelona, Spain. I stayed in Spain for a while compared to those years ago? then came back to the US. I then put together Brian is on family leave, Toni Aleman was hired D'Priest with Chris Sanders and some other play- for a few shows only, not actually in our band. Erers. That lasted for a year then I started working on ic Ragno is one of our keyboard players I feature getting LONDON back on the map and HERE onstage. Billy the Fist is playing bass and kicks WE ARE! Eventually I had another child and be- ASS! The difference is that the music scene is not came domesticated but I‘m not unhappy about it at as HOT as it was back then. The Sunset Strip has all. Music has always been my wife, I think. been dead for a while and it will never recover from its loss. We all miss those great times of Mu<CV SW> How did the reunion show come sic, Love and Happiness. about? Did that show really fuel the fire to resurrect London one more time, because, well, here <CV SW> How have you guys matured or changed, or dare I say "adapted" - musically and we are…

The reunion show was put together by me and with your attitudes? booked by my drummer Krigger around 2 years We have all matured and are in a better place this ago. We never missed a beat the first time together time. We are focused and we look forward to again. It was emotional for me, I definitely have blowing doors as much as possible. We work really paid my dues and have given it 200 percent…and hard to give our fans a great show. We are a well-

oiled machine. <CV SW> Do you see "glam metal" as also becoming popular again? Did the reunions of many of your contemporaries have any impact on your decision to get back together?

I got my band together because we left some things unfinished and now we are going to finish them.

Glam is becoming more popular again and clothes we wore are showing up at retail stores now. So YES, I hope it rules the world once more! I have not changed a bit and I know Krigger and I will never change ways.

Fortunately, the money did not go to waste; we <CV SW> London was infamous back in the day made sure that we partied as much as possible. in Hollywood, but now you're ready to be fa- Life is too short to regret! mous - how do you see the music industry today compared to years ago, and how do you plan to <CV SW> What advice would you give yourself navigate London in a changed music world? back in 1985, if you could?

It‘s changed quite a bit and it will never be the DON‘T DO DRUGS! I don't RECOMMEND IT! same. I see music like any other business and you And make sure you spend time with family. must adapt to your environment and trends. I don't have time to f**k around I need to make the best <CV SW> Tell us about social media - necessary moves possible and present LONDON the right evil or savvy tool?

Both! It‘s the reality today and it will only get bigway. :) ger! <CV SW> Of course, if you had to do anything different, given the knowledge of experience, <CV SW> Where do you see London in terms of status in the glam metal pantheon? what would that be, if anything?

I wish I knew that answer, but I cannot answer it I would have invested my money in real estate. since it is the fans who will decide a placement for <CV SW> Seriously…

LONDON. My status now is to expose the Real Hell Yeah! I would have bought property in Ecko, Sunset Strip Players which is us, LONDON, to the Burbank, Downtown LA, and the Las Vegas Strip. last of the strip.

<CV SW> What message do you want to say to your fans reading this feature?

Please join my fan page on Facebook!

Come and join us at our live shows and please pass the word around that LONDON is BACK! We need your total support! And we Thank You! <CV SW> Tell us what’s in store during 2014 for London – what are your immediate & long term goals these days?

We are working on our new studio album. I have released the new ―LONDON Live!‖ album, produced by LONDON, engineered by Michael Wagner & Roy Z Ramirez. I have also re-released LONDON "Don't Cry Wolf" which has all new packaging and was re-mastered at Capitol Records.

I also have our new merch and more things on the way. Shows are coming up and we look forward to seeing you all. Please visit us at...

www.LondonTheBand.net

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 The National Association of Music MerNorth Platte, NE. ―I find products I never knew were 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 products industry and promote the pleasures and business for the year.‖ 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.

Bringing the Goods to YOU from NAMM CV WorldWide Team

The National Association of Music Merchants convention (or NAMM to those ―in the know‖), held in Anaheim at the Convention Center January 24th - 26th, is an annual get together for companies in the music industry to show off their latest products to buyers and sellers of musical equipment. Everything from guitars and drums to turntables and microphones were on display in the Anaheim Convention Center all weekend. CV WorldWide again had the opportunity to attend this years convention and get a glimpse into some amazing products coming in 2014. Jason Constantine, our in house music equpment reviewer, will be showing us some products over the next few months that are new to the market.

Below is a small sample of what is to come in the next few issues.

Our FIRST Review, in this issue Legator Guitars - Helio 400C Single cut LP style guitar Upcoming Equipment Reviews Mojo Hand FX - DMBL Distortion / Overdrive Pedal Mojo Hand FX - Dewdrop Spring Reverb Mojo Hand FX - Speakeasy EP Preamp Dean Guitars - JCV C450F ―Jacky Vincent‖ Signature Guitar Ibanez Guitars - Universe UV70P 7 String Guitar Ibanez Guitars - ARZIR20 FB the latest Ibanez single cut style guitar Revolution Amplification - Newly designed heads by famed amp designer Tony Krank Rhodes Amplification - Orthos Lang Amplification - Lang Flagship 2x12 Combo amplifier We will have photos and we will have some video features as well on our new YouTube Page. So be sure to check those out as well.

Date Doors Open Bands 2/1 9:30 pm LAYZIE BONE with Mo Thugs 2/5 9:00 pm Walk Off Wednesdays

Cover Ages $15 21+ $5 21+

2/6 9:30 pm 2/7 7:30 pm 2/8 8:30pm 2/9 9:30 pm 2/13 8:30 pm 2/14 8:00 pm 2/15 8:30 pm 2/20 8:30 pm 2/21 9:30 pm

ALL HAIL THE YETI with Revolve, Before the Mourning Lionize COMEDY NIGHT: Brandon “Gooch” Hahn MOTOGRATER with AriettA, Ill Patientz, From 6 To Midnight RESSURECTION with Water Landing IRV the PHENOM with Rough House End, Wasted Myndz TEAM JAXSON CHARITY DRIVE DROP TANK with Tosom Kantation, War Within, Vile Child

$8 $10 $5 $7 $5 $5 $5 $5 $5

21+ 21+ 21+ 21+ 21+ 21+ 21+ 21+ 21+

2/23 8:30 pm 2/26 8:30 pm

REHAB with Angel’s Cut PENTAGRAM with Radio Moscow, Kings Destroy

$10 $20

21+ 21+

Hand Crafted Wearable Art

Gear Review: Legator Guitars from CV WorldWide Equipment Consultant Jason Constantine

Legator is a fairly new company to the market, offering many different styles and options of guitars. Anything you can imagine is offered from Legator; 6, 7, 8 and 9 string guitars, S style, T style, LP style, Dual Cut, Acoustics and Basses are all available.

Legator Guitars was established in 2012 with one goal; to create the finest music instruments in the universe! This is a bold statement to be making, especially in a market where it seems everyone and their cousin is making guitars. Legator offers many instruments at various price points. They offer Korean imports and USA Hand made guitars so anyone can afford to play a Legator. Our resident reviewer Jason Constantine stopped at the Legator booth at NAMM 2014 to really put these guitars through their paces and see if they are truly some of the ―finest musical instruments in the universe‖.

Helio - HSC 400-LE: This single cut LP style guitar is part of Legator‘s USA line. This guitar features all of the adornments of a typical LP style guitar with some refinements that truly makes it all Legator.

The HSC 400-LE Offers:         

African Mahogany Body w/ Maple Top Mahogany Neck Ebony Fingerboard 22 Medium Frets 24 ½ Inch Scale Length Seymour Duncan Antiquity JB and Jazz Model Pickups 2 Vol / 2 Tone Control configuration w/ 3 way switch Graphtech Bridge Hipshot Locking Tuners

MSRP: $2499.99 So what‘s the verdict? These guitars played amazingly well. The sculpted neck heel gives you fiull access to the upper frets with no restrictions, unlike other LP style guitars. The 22 Medium Jumbo frets were

polished and trimmed to perfection. The ebony fingerboard was evenly colored and showed no signs of being a cheap piece of wood. After playing this guitar for about 5 minutes it felt like an old friend.

Chords and notes sung with sustain, string bends were easy and the pleasant C neck profile was very comfortable. The guitar sounded excellent running through one of the soon to be released Legator Tube Amplifiers, and even with extreme gain settings I was able to roll back the volume and clean up the tone nicely. The finish on this guitar was flawless, and the quilt top was deep and lush. The burst was even, and the binding was finished perfectly. You could not tell the difference between the clear coat and the binding.

Ratings: Overall Value: 9 - Slightly above the price you would pay for a LP style guitar of similar quality.

Finish: 10 - Flawless perfect mirror finish and gorgeous deep rich color Tone: 10 - Deep rich lows, clear crisp highs, notes sustained for days Playability: 10 - Fast neck, not too fat, but not too thin, a perfect balance of modern and classic Overall Score: 9.75 Final thoughts: Legator Guitars is truly out there to cover the market. Their range of guitars and quality puts them immediately in the ranks of some of the finest instruments around. Their list of endorsees is nothing short of a who‘s who of the current trends of the music industry (and includes Jake E Lee, Jon Donais of ANTHRAX, Greg Tribbett of HELLYEAH, and many others). Their popularity is growing and I can see why. These instruments are finely crafted instruments with every attention to every detail.

http://legatorguitars.com/

Sights Around NAMM Through the Eyes of Sherry K

Sights Around NAMM Through the Eyes of Sherry K

Presidential PHOTO BOMBS! (yes, I do look like a dork!)

Chris Holmes from WASP - damm he’s TALL! Nadir D’Priest & Chris Sanders from LONDON

Mike Orlando from Adrenaline Mob

THE Steve Stevens…’nuff said

NAMM Vendor Spotlight!

At Yamaha, we will continue to create 'KANDO' and enrich culture with technology and passion born of sound and music, together with people all over the world.

Yamaha is featuring the TRBX Series, a full line of electric basses, at the 2014 NAMM Show. Combining advanced design, precision engineering and timehonored craftsmanship, these new instruments offer easy playability, comfortable body shapes and road-ready durability.

The four-string TRBX304 and TRBX504, along with the five-string TRBX305 and TRBX505, include new EQ and pickup innovations. All four models feature a five-piece Maple/ Mahogany neck for outstanding stability and excellent tone, along with finely crafted solid Mahogany bodies that are perfectly balanced and lightweight.

The 500-level basses are equipped with a 3-band Active EQ Control that can also be turned off for passive play. An Active/Passive switch lets players move between the two modes without losing any gain, ensuring the instrument’s versatility during live settings. The 500 Series also includes new H5 dual-coil pickups that deliver clear, punchy sound and a Battery Alert LED. On the 300-level models, a Performance EQ Switch offers five performance-tuned full-spectrum EQ curves, which lets players switch between styles and sounds on the fly, including Slap, Pick, Flat, Finger and Solo settings, plus 2-band active EQ controls. The newly designed M5 hum-bucking pickups also feature built-in thumb rests.

“For years, loyal Yamaha bass players clamored for instruments in this price range and these new models will make players across the musical spectrum very happy,” said Armando Vega, product manager, Yamaha Guitars, Yamaha Corporation of America. “The EQ options offer unparalleled tone-shaping possibilities and the new pickups sound like nothing else on the market today.”

Yamaha today introduced the redesigned Stage Custom Birch drum set at the 2014 NAMM Show. Already considered to be pound-for-pound among the best drum sets in its class, the new generation Stage Custom Birch has received several significant upgrades.

Many of the changes are subtle, yet substantial.

Yamaha upgraded the shells with the same thicker ply concept used on Live Custom and rounded the bearing edges for more head to shell contact, which provides a fatter sound. The Absolute style lug, which attaches to the shell using a single screw, requires fewer holes in the shell and less metal inside the drum, allowing the drums to resonate more fully. Die-cast claws and new spurs now adorn the bass drum and the snare drum now includes ten lugs for more precise tuning.

Stage Custom Birch kits also come in new sizes.

Tom and floor tom sizes are now available at traditional depths and diameters, offering wider tuning and dynamic ranges. The floor toms, trimmed down to be under square, provide a better tone to attack balance. The drum sets also offer excellent finishes, high-end specs and superior hardware at a great value.

“The Stage Custom Birch has been a very successful drum set due to its incredible value,” said Dave Jewell, marketing manager, Yamaha Drums, Yamaha Corporation of America. “We listened to dealers and consumers and improved our number one selling drum set in many ways. From pro finishes to the new Absolute lug casing, the Stage Custom Birch drum kit will continue to set the standard for the industry.”

Yamaha is featuring the portable and affordable MOXF Series at the 2014 NAMM Show.

MOXF compatibility with the Voices and Library of the MOTIF XF, MOTIF XS and the MOX Series data ensures the immediate availability of a large collection of sound and sample libraries and optional software. The 88-key Graded Hammer Standard MOXF8 and 61-key semi-weighted action MOXF6 come with 741 MB Wave ROM, 3,977 waveforms and 128-note polyphony, with up to 1 GB of Flash board sample expansion. In addition to a 16-track Song and Pattern Sequencer with real time loop remix, MOXF Series synths come with built-in, four channel USB audio/MIDI interfacing and extensive DAW/ VST controls.

Performance Mode enhances creativity by allowing players to combine multiple voices together and play them on one MIDI channel and with the interactive Arp engine, playing simple chords or even single notes provides complete musical performances to inspire creativity. The MOXF also features 256 preset performances in a wide variety of music styles. For music production, a built-in sequencer lets musicians produce high-quality tracks recorded in real-time without the need to plug into a computer or other external devices. The keyboards come with incredible presets, from pristine grand pianos to vintage keyboards, enhanced by advanced Virtual Circuit Modeling effects, which provide the textures of vintage analog compressors, EQ and stomp-boxes, down to their component transistors and resistors.

For producers who prefer to use the latest DAW and VST technology, the MOXF serves as the center of a professional-grade music production studio. Bundled software includes the MOXF Editor for detailed editing of Voice and mixing parameters along with MOXF Remote Editor for controlling VST templates and Remote Tools, which simplifies integration with Cubase. Audio and MIDI hook ups require a single cable for recording to a variety of DAW options and a special remote mode and AI knob makes it easier than ever to control recording functions automatically. MOXF keyboards come with Steinberg Prologue VST, a rich-sounding virtual analog synthesizer with a wide variety of textures that includes sounds ranging from lush, detailed pads to bright, acerbic leads.

“The MOXF Series is expandable, portable, affordable and compatible with a wide range of other products,” said Athan Billias, marketing manager, Pro Audio & Combo Division, Yamaha Corporation of America.

“These new synths bring MOTIF music production power to a whole new generation of musicians and producers.”

Yamaha today introduced the new generation of MG Mixer Series at the 2014 NAMM Show.

All MG models come with Yamaha state-of-the-art discrete Class-A D-PRE microphone preamps. By using an inverted Darlington circuit topography, these studio-grade preamps feature multiple circuitry elements designed to provide more power, deliver lower impedance and supply an impressively wide frequency range that can handle signal from any source without coloration while faithfully retaining the original sound.

With varying input/output and processing capabilities, the new MG Series includes four XU models that feature an upgraded version of the renowned Yamaha SPX effects processor, including a comprehensive suite of 24 different effects that add professional polish to any mix (upgraded from the 16-effect version in the previous MG series). A favorite of sound engineers since their introduction more than 20 years ago, SPX processors have become the industry standard for both recording and sound reinforcement applications. The MG06X also comes with six non-editable SPX effects (but does not include USB integration, found on the XU models). Five Standard models range from six to twenty channels.

New XU models offer digital connectivity and software that streamlines the recording process, including Steinberg Cubase AI. A USB 2.0 audio interface capable of 24-bit/192kHz sound quality allows for playback of digital content from a PC and recording of the mixer output using DAW software. USB Audio Class 2.0 is also supported so that compliant tablets and other devices can be used without installing drivers. All models in the XU line are compatible with Apple’s Camera Connection Kit or Lighting-to-USB Camera Adapter for seamless recording and playback of digital audio content to and from an iPad or iPhone.

The MG mixers also feature 3-band channel EQ and high pass filters; models with more than 10 inputs are equipped with newly-upgraded, 1-knob compressors that add optimized compression to a wide variety of input sources with the touch of a single control.

The entire MG line has been redesigned with an emphasis on durability to withstand the rigors of the road or rough handling. A powder-coated steel chassis provides improved structural strength, while the placement of the knobs above the chassis surface protects internal components by absorbing any impact or pressure on the knobs themselves.

NAMM Metal Jam 2014

more...Motorcycle Riding Tips We all have enough "In memory of…" patches on our vest and do not wish to add any more. So here are 11 motorcycle riding tips to remind us of the things that can keep us in one piece and out of the hospital. Recently we‘ve heard of TOO MANY fatal motorcycle accidents, especially in my SouthWest market (Vegas & LA)...CVWW is sorry to beat this drum again, but you can NEVER get enough tips on riding motorcycles safely...

If you are a novice, sign up for and attend a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. Not only will this course teach you lots of the things that will help keep you safe but your motorcycle insurance will probably be slightly lower as well – and who Learn how to stop and start easily and smoothly. doesn't want to save on insurance, especially when Learn how long it takes to stop safely – it isn't the riding in states with Helmet Optional laws that re- same as stopping a car. quire large bodily injury coverage to enjoy the right for those who ride to decide.

First-time street riders should choose a time of day when the traffic is at a low. Jumping into rush hour Remind yourself where your suicide or kill switch traffic can easily lead to an accident on your very is located. This switch, if you realize you are going first outing. Select a route that takes you into very to have to drop the bike, can save you from having low traffic zones such as through neighborhoods, your own motorcycle run over you causing injury. scenic routes and avoid at all cost getting on a freeIf you are just learning to ride and live in a highly way until you gain quite a lot of experience. populated area, have an experienced rider take you Never, ever become aggressive toward a car or and your bike into an area with little or no traffic. truck driver. Those cars win every single time in a A parking lot of a closed business works very well. road rage situation. They are bigger, heavier and Neighborhood streets can cause the residents to have a lot more power. If someone tailgates you, complain. Ride in this controlled environment un- tap your brake lights a few times and if they don't til you feel completely in control of the vehicle. back off, change lanes or give them the road by pulling off to the side We all know black is the only cool biker color, right? Well, if you are going to be riding at night in a poorly light area, it is much more important to be seen than to be cool, no matter what your friends say! Be sure your lights are bright and clean for maximum visibility but also consider placing reflective tape on the back of your helmet (if you use one) and maybe a glow in the dark patch on your back.

Never trust cages. Car drivers somehow, no matter how loud or how rowdy bikers can be, manage to simply not see us! The blind spot in most cars is sufficiently large for a motorcycle to be completely hidden from view. But other cage drivers simply don't seem to look for us. Unless, of course, they son, daughter, husband or wife happens to ride; unfortunately, we can't tell who those people are and have to be doubly aware of other vehicles than when driving a car.

Never assume that just because there is no turn signal on that car that it isn't going to turn right in front of you. No matter how many other drivers don't use turn signals, ALWAYS use yours and, if you have a passenger during daylight, hand signals can be an extra preventative measure.

DON’T let this be you! Ride Safely!

You know those trucker bumper stickers that say out from between your legs at low speed, you will "If you can't see my mirrors, I can't see you"? Well, experience much less road rash than allowing mouse this same common sense when riding. If you mentum to take you with the motorcycle. can't see the driver's face in the rear view mirror of the vehicle in front of you, chances are they can't Novice riders should never carry passengers. That see you at all. Stay out of blind spots at all times. comes later with more road experience. The movements of a rider can cause a situation where you Once you become an experienced rider, when ridcan easily lose control, especially at very low ing on city streets, always allow room for other speeds. people's errors. An added safety tip is that you should remain aware of where you would choose Above all, plan for safety so you will come home to put the scoot down if the need arose. If you get safely to ride again another day. Be defensive and in trouble and have any time at all, select where to be aware to avoid losing your bike – or worse, your lay the motorcycle instead of allowing traffic or the life. bike to determine that for you. If you can elect to place the bike on the ground, allowing it to move (reprinted from www.whybike.com)

Gear the Pros Use!

Chris Sanders - Guitarist for LONDON & Knight Fury "As I stood watching Chris and his technique, I was reminded of another young guitarist I once had the pleasure of seeing many years ago at The Starwood. The band was called Quiet Riot. The guitarist was none other than Randy Rhoads."

Lucky, SugarBuzz Magazine

Guitars My first guitar ever was a Gibson Les Paul Studio. I still have it and occasionally tour with it. I used it for some of the rhythm tracks on the Knight Fury ―Time to Rock‖ album where I blended it with Jackson Guitars. Jacksons are my real work horse. Every solo I ever record was done on a Jackson RR1.

Only thing that varied was the color of the guitar. On the road I have been known to also use Jackson RR3‘s.

Pickups Seymour Duncan does it for me. SH2, TB4 and TB10 Pedals I don‘t use analog pedals anymore. It‘s the old way of doing things. I suppose if you are on a limited budget and only want a few added tones it‘s all right in the home. On the road I don‘t want to deal with changing batteries or power adapters.

I have a vary colored sound and every effect I use is processed through rack gear. From EQ and a noise gate to chorus, delay and reverb. I even use a pitch shift to add an additional pitch 7 cents above signal. Having total control over these effects is essential. Knowing when to have what on and to switch tones at a moments notice for solo‘s to rhythm to clean can only be achieved through a ROCKTRON ALL ACCESS midi controller. This controller also controls my amp so I have total control over effects and channel switching.

Amps I have used many over the years and have blown them all up. The first thing I do is put an antinuator on them. This allows me to have great tone from an amp that is cranked to 10, without the volume associated from a cranked amp. Speakers also sound the best at lower volumes. The Rocktron Vendetta 100 watt tube head is what I have used on every USA tour since 2008. EL34 and 12ax7 tubes are used.

Speakers I use Wizard speakers from Eminence.

They are the best speakers I have heard and I stand behind them 100%. I still have the original 16 speakers they sent me to reload my cabinets with. I have not been able to blow these speakers up. I love the efficiency (sensitivity) of them. Serious db and sound pressure levels.

Strings I tried them all. Most are crap. Around 1995 I started using GHS strings and have never looked back. They continued to be the best string. I toured their factory in Battle Creek MI a few years ago and was very impressed with what I saw. Great company, product and people.

Tuned to standard I use 8-38, Eb 9-42, and tuned to D 9-46 Picks They are purple and have turtles on them. Delron 500 1.5mm are what I tour and record with.. 2 hours a day I practice with Stylus picks. They have a diamond shaped head and are great for training and economy of movement.

Cables Monster cables for tour and studio.

More from Chris: CVWW: Have you done any specific mods to the guitars, or are they straight out of the box with the pickups & strings you mentioned?

No. Everything is the way it comes. If it isn‘t right out of the box, I‘m not gonna mess with it.

CVWW: Tell us a little about how you got started playing guitar, how often you practice, and a little about your advice & philosophy on guitar…

A steady practice routine is a daily requirement in my life. Usually starts about 7am or 2 hours after my workout begins. Testosterone is higher in the morning and allows to push harder. I do split guitar training. 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon.

I warm up. Go over a mental inventory in my mind of what I will be doing. There is always a focus on technique, old repertoire, new music, ear training, harmony's and posing in the mirror. Be conscious of your body's movements when so when you are playing live you get the best pictures.

Led by the Giancana siblings, originally from North Carolina, the guys in Masses Beware threw caution to the wind and relocated to the music city, Nashville, TN, to pursue their future as a band.

Despite being a hard rock band in a country music city, Masses Beware has held their own in the music scene, playing local venues, expanding their fan base & notoriety with every new show. For these guys, it’s all in on their music careers, and based on their success so far, it’s a solid bet!

CV WorldWide had a chance to squeeze some quality time from their busy schedule... <CV WorldWide> Alright, lated? songs, or even put money up to CVWW Interview 101, tell us who <Bryant> We are 3 brothers from record in a studio. So we kind of teamed up and said ―do you want the same motha. is in the band and his role. to start a full project together, Casey Self - Vox <CV WW> Who started the band and put our money into the pot Brandon Giancana - Drums initially, was it the brothers?

What and record, do videos, and make Nick Giancana - Guitars and were the goals back then? the initiative to make it a full Keyboard <Brandon> The band started time job?‖ So that‘s what we did Bryant Giancana - Bass and Live with me, Bryant, and Nick.

We and so far it is working great! The Background Vox really started a band because we goals back then was really to start Sam Deyton - Guitar and Backhad worked with other bands in the project and see how far it ground Vox the past and no one really had big would go; kind of a trial and er<CV WW> I see 3 “Giancana” goals other than just jamming ror situation and see if brothers names in that list, is this an incredi- and wanting to play local bars. could work in a band, and live ble coincidence or are you guys re- No one wanted to finish writing together at the same time.

like I was before he moved to Nashville. My reply was ―absolutely‖. I have had to come back and forth from NC to TN to get to the studio, because I don't live there yet. But I make these guys my priority and I really enjoy working with them. <CV WW> Let’s break out a couple of quotes from your bio…

A: “We all came from different backgrounds of music”; alright tell us your different influences? <Casey> Shinedown, Seether, and Nickleback. <Brandon> Asking Alexandria, Ice Nine Kills, and some punk <CV WW> Any cool stories how band, and started small garage like Blink 182 the name Masses Beware came bands as early as 8th grade. So we <Bryant> Mudvayne, Korn, and were all focused on music very about?

Peter Gabriel <Nick> We started the project as early; it is our passion. <Nick> U2, Killswitch Engage, my old band's name that I made and Taking Back Sunday with my nephew Erik - ―The <CV WW> You state “Our Goal <Sam> Eric Johnson, Dire Mask We Wear‖. We showed up is to play music as our only option” Straits, even some country guys to a gig about 2 and half years was that and has that been the ulti- like Brad Paisley ago and the sound man an- mate goal when you started this.

B: “Each of us brings a uniqueness nounced us by misstating the <Casey> Yes I think that was to the band”; explain what uniquename as ―Masses Beware‖. He our main goal, since we have all ness each of you brings? did not hear us correctly, but we been doing music about our <Bryant> We all add our uniquethought that is a good name, we whole life. I made the move the ness to the band in that we all get searched it no one had that Nashville to play downtown at together and will tell everyone name, so we changed the name places like Tootsies and just hit the cover country music scene as different things to do to complito Masses Beware. a bass player, and make good ment the song. Nick and Sam <CV WW> Did you have any oth- money doing that as my job. play every instrument so they will er interest growing up, or were you When Bryant, Brandon, and say try this here and see if it focused on music early?

Nick asked me to join with Mass- works, Casey plays bass too so he <Sam> I was focused on music es Beware I got excited, because I will say why don't we try this on from the time I was 14, which is love Country Music but my pas- bass, sometimes the parts fit sometimes they don't. But we all when I started to learn the play sion is to sing in a rock band. help each other to make it the guitar on my own with no instruction. I would play Metallica, <CV WW> Tell us about the Jour- best possible.

Pantera, Dire Straits and some ney in putting this line up together. heavier tracks, then started to Casey is fairly new (August of this <CV WW> What do you think it is about the lineup that works so form lead riffs. Casey started to year?), what about Sam? play Bass in Orchestra, and start- <Sam> I came into the mix of well. ed to back up sing in a band we Masses Beware at the beginning <Casey> We are like a band of were in together in High School. of September 2013. Casey called brothers, we click well, we get up Bryant, Brandon, and Nick all me up one day and asked if I was all the time, to not only write played through High School still serious about making music songs, but go bowling about eve-

ry Thursday, and play games like are many places to play. The us; what is a #1 Party?

Call of Duty. So we are not band Rutledge, 12th and Porter, The <Brandon> A #1 Party is a party mates, we are also good friends. Basement, and The Foobar are that is thrown by BMI, ASCAP, great places to play, and they or SESAC to show thanks for not <CV WW> You are a rock band have great sound as well. There only the artist but the songwriters based in Nashville, a county band are some rock bands out here, the in Nashville as well. When we scene is alive but more under- first moved here in January 2013, city-why Nashville? <Brandon> Well, it is not only a ground, and it is hard to get peo- our friend Dale invited us out to country band city, but also the ple to come to the events. So it is the Carrie Underwood #1 Party music capital of the world. They rough, but if you get up with a for her song ―Blown Away‖. He have the best studios with mil- few bands, you can get a decent wanted us to see how Nashville is lions of dollars‘ worth of equip- show; but there is barely any pay. different by honoring the songment. They have these studios all So you have to love rock music writer as well as the artist; it‘s really about the entire team here. in a block where you can hit plac- to play here locally.

We got to shake hands with her, es like Quad, Oceanway, Ben Folds studio, and the tracking <CV WW> Have you ever thought and the song writers, meet people room just to name a few within about moving to another city, one at her label, heads of BMI, and ASCAP, so it was a great experiwalking distance. There are the that might be more rock friendly? big labels like Warner Brothers <Casey> Nashville is our home ence. He invited us out to many Nashville, Sony Nashville, Word for now. There are many places others later like Jason Aldean, Records, Razor and Tie, and like New York, and California Florida Georgia Line, Justin many others not even 1000 feet that would be easier to live in for Moore, Randy Howser, and The from where we hang out every the rock scene, but we really Band Perry. The biggest honor day on Music Row. You could don't know yet. We all think was getting to meet Mr. Scott throw a stone and hit them right Nashville might be the place to Borchetta of Big Machine Recout the front door where we hang stay because it is the musical cap- ords, not once but twice. He is a person Bryant, Nick and I kind of out that is how close they are. ital of the world. idolize; he started the independThe best producers, tens of thou<CV WW> On FB it says you ent label, and made it to the top sands of songwriters, this is why have been involved in many #1 with hard work. So that was a big Nashville is the music capital of the world. It is so amazing to live Parties, which is an honor to all of achievement for us. here, and walk the streets, and run into big name people all the time. <CV WW> Does being a rock band in that city make it any harder or easier for you, tell us about the hard rock scene in Nashville. <Nick> It is harder because in all the places you can play for easy exposure like downtown Broadway, rock bands are not allowed to be there. It is for cover country music only, there is one rock bar but you can only play covers. So that makes it harder. Rock bands have to play away from downtown but the good news is there

other than Nashville. He worked JP Sells to work with us the fast and we had to keep up, and whole time. also made us follow the grid or click to the songs. It was a great <CV WW> Try to describe the learning experience and a crash feeling of holding your own CD in course on professional recording your hands?

101, which we needed badly. <Sam> To me, having a full length album in its completed en<CV WW> Even working with tirety not only gave me a huge such a professional, was a full sense of accomplishment, but allength album easier or harder to so excites me that I have a fincomplete than you thought? ished project that I can share with <CV WW> You released the al- <Bryant> Both easy and harder; the world, which is really cool. bum in Nov. 2013 how has that it was easy working with Warren for 2 songs, he kept us paced, on <CV WW> Have you heard your gone so far? <Bryant> It has gone great, we time, and ran the session at a full own songs on the radio? When have 2 videos from the album out professional level. For the other you’re with friends and say “that’s as well, we have had nothing but songs Brandon had to track and our song” what do they think? good comments on the album so engineer the rest. I had to learn <Nick> Yes I actually recorded far. With our videos out we just the patch bay, and get all the mi- our first big radio interview and won a Beat 100 contest for ―Burn crophones patched in correctly, they played 5 of our songs from The Past‖ we got 2nd place on and we had to go back and forth the old EP before the album. It is their world charts in the UK, between members recording, and really something special when which helped land us a Press Re- punching in on mistakes. So that you hear your own song played lease to many papers, magazines, is when the hard part started to in another state, and others are and online blogs to get the name show up. We had an assistant listening. Most of our friends are out in the UK, and opened some Engineer help with some vocals, musicians, so they would all call doors for us, which was very and some punching in on a few up after the show and say sounds helpful. Many radio stations are songs, so a big thanks to JP Sells great, or I never heard that one. It p la y in g t h e n e w s o n g s . for that. We took a few weeks to is just a big accomplishment. ―Kingmaker‖; cross your fingers, finish up everything, but we it should be on a Movie sound- learned for the next album we <CV WW> Any particularly memtrack soon. So since November will have qualified Engineers like orable shows, why were they memowe have had a lot of success with the album. <CV WW> Produced with Warren Peterson - quite a name - what did you learn from working with a heavy weight like this? <Brandon> Yes we learned a lot.

He co-produced My Little Psycho, Craving The Hunt, and helped engineer the tracking for a few other songs not released yet.

He taught us professionalism in the studio. We had to learn fast how to chart the music for the Producer and Engineer which many people do not do in places

rable? <Brandon> Actually the most memorable show I think we had with Masses Beware was the first show in Nashville. Our friend Kevin aka ―Spaz‖ actually got hot sauce with a mix of pineapple sauce from the wings in his eyes.

He is allergic to pineapple so he started seizing after the show and had to go immediately to the hospital in Murfreesboro. So we were an hour away from home, in a town we don't know, and stayed with him ‗til they rinsed his eyes out, and epi penned him.

The worst part is we all got the flu a few days later. So I guess it and curse bad, so we stopped the we all got the flu. was very ―memorable‖. show to check on him, then he started seizing. So the whole <CV WW> Ahh, the life of a musi<CV WW> Pineapple sauce AND show stopped after that, a nurse cian, good times. hot sauce?! Do I even want to ask? in the audience called 911, and <Brandon> Yeah… <Brandon> Haha! Spaz is bit of started to give pre-care by getting a messy eater, especially with everyone away from him, check- <CV WW> Any of your songs wings so he ended up rubbing his ing his vitals, and trying to find speak deeply on a personal level to eyes somehow, probably not wip- out what the ingredients in the you guys? ing his hands off with a napkin food were. A few minutes later 2 <Sam> The songs on the new first; even though he did, he ambulances and 3 fire trucks album defiantly speak to me on a wanted to stay the rest of the show up, the whole street looked personal level. I am the type of show. The bad part was he was like a massacre happened, people person, that I don't necessarily the lead guitar player for the band outside in the dorms near the col- need lyrics for a song to hit me in at the time; during the show he lege were coming over, it was a the heart. I put a lot of time, started to yell during the 3rd song total clusterf**k. He started to tell sweat, effort, and achy fingers ineveryone he was aller- to this project and hearing the gic to pineapple when lead riffs, rhythm parts, and other he awoke which was in sections where we added my idethe hot wing sauce. At as in the songs speak to me. the hospital they gave him a epi pen to con- <CV WW> I see you use Social trol the allergic reac- media some, but not overly too tion. But the part of the much - how do you see social mestory I left out was the dia; necessary evil or savvy marketnurse in the ER could ing tool? not control him wash- <Casey> It is very savvy, I don't ing his eyes out, so know where we would be withthey made me help out it. It is a great way to branch hold him down and out and hit new fans in other keep his eyes open. states, and even countries, withThen a few days later out even touring there.

Rush, and newer bands like 30 Seconds to Mars, Creed, and Shinedown. <CV WW> What is one of the best pieces of advice someone has given such a young band? <Nick> ―Play with a Metronome or Click‖, and ―don't get married‖. <CV WW> Where do you guys feel you are in the musical journey of Masses Beware? Where do you see yourselves in 3 to 5 years? <Bryant> I think we are established enough to really make Masses Beware a go right now. <CV WW> How has signing with for touring. We are talking with We have the right members, we Endless Beat Management taken many other booking agents who have the right attitude, and we all the pressure off you guys to do the are lining us up some small tours have the same goals. Hopefully in for the end of this coming spring 3 to 5 years we will be with an heavy lifting of the management? independent label, moving to<Bryant> It really helped a lot. though. wards a major label record deal, Not only do they help line us up <CV WW> In a “country city” we are reaching for the stars and with the right people for the job what is it about Masses Beware that our dreams, and we think it can like music videos, they help proappeals to the hard rock fans? be accomplished. mote us every day, and get major <Nick> We put on a great show, contacts to check us out. That is where we got ―Kingmaker‖ on but mostly I think it is the music <CV WW> 2013 has come and the soundtrack for the pre- that speaks to them. We have al- gone; more popularity, a full length production of the movie. Plus ways picked up a few new fans album out, what is in store for they helped cut some budgets by every time we played, so we are Masses Beware in 2014? working our deals with other pro- very grateful we have good sup- <Brandon> Well. we are workfessionals to help keep costs like port of fans for always showing ing on some spring and summer touring, we have a few more the studio down and affordable. up. songs we might be cutting soon <CV WW> Did you just finish up <CV WW> How did you guys feel to start the next album, and get a mini tour, did I see that right? before your first show, where you them tracked and ready to go.

Tell us about how that went for you nervous, wanting to head on stage? New radio stations playing our guys. <Casey> Not at all. We are all songs overseas in the UK, Ger<Brandon> Well, we had 2 tours performers; I personally love to many, and the Netherlands, and lined up with 2 different bands get on stage, it is the one thing I a big concept music video comfrom Victory Records a few look forward to every time I play ing soon it is in the works. It is months ago. We were really ex- a gig. going to be a busy year, but we cited about it, got new gear, and can't wait for it. put down some money for rent- <CV WW> If you had one Band to ing a decent van. But one of the open for during a show who would bands broke up a month before it be? the tour started, and the other (All) There are so many good band had to cancel the other tour bands, we wanted to add a few for some reason, so it was a no go Led Zeppelin, KISS, Van Halen,

I have to first say...personally, I was blown away by the energy they put into their performance at Vinyl (located at The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino). The crowd was bursting with enthusiasm that took you right back to when music video's were King! Ladies throwing themselves at the band and the sea of horns \m/ raised in praise! The youngest fan stood to my left and rocked it out all night with me.

By now I am sure we have all heard that the 80's music was quite influential from L.A to New York. Growing up in the Hair Metal days, I don‘t think I could have gone a day without hearing rocking songs like ―Never Enough‖ or even beautiful ballads like ―Ballad of Jane‖ and not blast it out on the radio or my walkman (thought to self ―I miss that damn walkman‖).

Without being a child growing up in the 80's I would have never plastered my wall with posters of these men. My idols...

Anyhow, moving on...L.A. Guns helped move and motivate the metal scene above and beyond your average band of their time. The band has always carried a more Glamorous/Vamped out image and to this day it still sparks in my memories. How no one could forget the pale skinned, long black haired, red lipstick wearing sexy men that they were and still are today. Watching their performance was a blast from the past with a few new faces now in the band who fit like a glove.

We saw founding member Phil Lewis (1987–1995, 1999–present); some would call him ―Glam Rocker‖ (Vocals & Guitar), I call him a ―Gypsy Vamp Rocker‖ he still has a swagger to drive the ladies wild. It‘s either his swagger or his English accent. Either way the girls wanted a piece of his pants or leg or never mind... Phil has some outstanding vocals to this day and can give his music to you with a great passion, I only ask that you listen...I would dare call Phil a lady killer with that alluring smile and long hair, yeah he is ―acquitted‖...

The beast behind the skins Mr. Steve Riley (1987–1992, 1995–present), still behind the drums that keep the party rolling, the band is very much still alive and kicking your asses! Some of you may have also experienced momentary memory loss due to head banging to Steve's drum beats. My guess is it‘s got to be a great brotherhood between these men.

Then we have the handsome Scott Griffin (guitar/vocals), who joined L.A. Guns (2007–2009, 2011– present) and has been with them since stepping away only momentarily to join ―Hookers and Blow‖ and ―The King Mixers‖ days. Being a long time fan of L.A. Guns, when Scott rejoined the band the fans made it quite clear that they are happy he is back and in full action with the band.

The we get a new and younger face to add to the mix of seasoned pro's; Michael Grant (guitar/ vocal/ contortionist) being the baby of the band and having only been performing with them for a year, he will knock your socks off with his talent and personality on and off stage. Not only is he heavenly eye candy but he plays effortlessly. During the set he broke a string and keep rolling out the professionalism throughout the song. Lucky for him Brent Muscat of Las Vegas's own ―Sin City Sinners‖ was quick with a draw and offered his guitar to Michael ‗til his was re-strung...

So now to get you out of work mode and back to a great show, L.A. Guns is energetic, fun loving and

without a doubt one band not to miss live.

So get out and enjoy a fantastic show that contains many of the songs you loved, mixed with a few newer bonuses and they could even cover some of your favorites from the past!!! No matter the situation get out and show these hard working musicians how much you appreciate their hard work in a live venue!!! I don‘t want to give away the set list, I will however say my ―Gypsy Soul got pushed Over the Edge‖!!!

Miranda Trenholm

A Trucker’s Guide on Winter Driving In eight years as a truck driver, Alan Wrobel has driven 810,000 miles (accident-free) in 45 states and Ontario. Here's his advice on how to handle yourself when the snow starts falling: When you face a nasty winter storm, use your best judgment. Don't go out unless you have to, and always make sure you have an emergency kit, warm blankets, and rations in the car. Now, here are some tips, basic and advanced, to help ensure you won't need to use that emergency kit.

Relax: Breathe and stay calm. Panic causes people to overreact. You need to focus.

Slow Down: for turns before you start slowing down.

Drive only as fast as your abilities and the capabilities of the vehicle permit for the road conditions. If If you're going significantly slower than the traffic you're out of practice on snow and ice, slow down. around you, turn on your four-way hazards, take If your tires are bad, slow down. If your car has a the rightmost lane, and just let everyone pass you. low ride height, it won't handle accumulating snow The hazards let other drivers know you're going well. Again, just slow down. slower than they are, and this can help prevent a pileup.

Be Smooth: Your actions need to be controlled and deliberate. Observe Tire Spray: Hard acceleration, hard braking, and sharp curves Pay attention to the water coming off of other vehiall decrease traction. Maintain a consistent speed, cles' tires. If there's a lot of spray, the roads are open up the distance between you and the car wet. If there's less spray and the road's look wet, ahead, and be easy on the brakes. Steer gently, and take extra caution; the roadway is starting to remember that inertia will be a factor. freeze. If the road looks wet with little or no spray, you're on black ice. Be extremely cautious.

Let There Be Light: In inclement weather, turn on your headlights. Watch the Truckers: This is so other drivers can see you. Your taillights When the weather goes south, if the big trucks are will be brighter too. slowing down, you should too. If they're pulling off, perhaps you'd better take a break as well. By Use Your Signals: Here's a trucker's rule of thumb for lane change: no means do I recommend keeping pace with Dry or rainy (not freezing) weather: three blinks, them. (We're kind of a crazy breed with the adthen move over for three blinks. Winter weather: vantage of more weight, higher road clearance, four or five blinks, then move over slowly. Signal more tires, and bigger tires.)

freezer. My bet is it practically sticks to your finDo Not Stop: If visibility is zero (i.e., you can't see beyond your gers for a bit. hood), do not stop where you are! You WILL be hit. Creep along until you can safely get your vehi- The same principle applies to driving. The ice is almost sticky in more extreme cold. But during cle off and away from the road. heavy and slower traffic, more heat is applied to its surface, and traction will be commensurately reWaiting it Out: Exit ramps are typically plowed after the main duced. highways. Rest areas are cleared after that. If you need to get off the road, wait it out in the parking Ultimately, you're responsible for exercising your lot of a gas station, 24-hour restaurant, or hotel. best judgment. If the weather is bad, stay put and You stand a better chance of not being snowed in. let road crews do their jobs.

Traction is Everything: Loss of traction in snowy/icy conditions doesn't happen because you're on ice. It means you're hydroplaning on an almost microscopic film of fluid water (in a transitional state) between the ice and the surface of your tires. The lack of cohesion in the fluid gravely reduces friction, which results in less traction.

Make sure you have snow tires or all-weather radials with wide and deep tread valleys. Siping (small cuts that look like squiggly lines) on the tread studs Be safe out there. will help with grip on packed snow and ice.

When is Cold-Weather Driving Riskiest?

You face the greatest risk of losing traction on snowy, wet roads when temperatures are between 22 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit. At colder temperatures (10 to 20 degrees or less) snow-covered and icy roads afford more traction than at those warmer (22 to 35 degree) temperatures.

Don't believe it? Try this: Take two ice cubes.

Place one in a deep freezer for 30 minutes. Drop the other in a glass of water. Try picking it in up with your fingertips. Notice how slippery it is? After 30 minutes, get the other ice cube from the

By Alan Wrobel (originally published in Road & Track)

Order in the Chaos Why independent songwriters should register the copyright for their music [Article by special guest contributor Anthony Ceseri]

Please Note: This article discusses opinions on copy- can submit your music for copyright online, which righting your music and should not be considered legal makes submitting even easier. advice. If you’re unsure about how the copyright laws in your country will affect you, please contact a lawyer be- When it comes time to copyrighting your music, there are two forms you can use as a songwritfore proceeding. er. They are Form SR and Form PA. Technically, When you submit a song for copyright you‘re there are three forms, if you consider the fact that simply proving the date of submission of your there‘s also a short-form version of the PA form. work. The fine folks of the copyright office don‘t But that offers the same protection as the PA sit around listening to every submission to see if form. SR stands for Sound Recording, while they‘ve heard it before. That would be an impossi- PA stands for Performing Arts. So how do you ble task. When you write or record your song, know which one to use? The following is from the technically, you‘ve created it — and thus you own Copyright Office‘s website and will answer that for the copyright to it. By submitting a song to the you: copyright office, you’re protecting your music simply by acknowledging the date of its creation. When to Use Form SR (Sound Recordings) Use Form SR for registration of published or unpublished It’s also important to note that certain aspects of sound recordings, that is, for registration of the particular your song are not protected even if you’ve regis- sounds or recorded performance.

Form SR must also be used if you wish to make one regtered the copyright. These include: istration for both the sound recording and the underlying * chord progressions work (the musical composition, dramatic, or literary * the overall idea or concept of your song work). You may make a single registration only if the * and a title or short phrase Just think about how many songs have used cliche copyright claimant is the same for both the sound recordideas like ―I wish you were here,‖ or ―What ing and the underlying work. In this case, the authorship doesn‘t kill you makes you stronger.‖ Also, imag- statement in Space 2 should specify that the claim covers ine how many copyright infringements there would both works. be if the I – V – vi – IV chord progression could be Form SR is also the appropriate form for registration of a copyrighted. On the other hand, melodies and the multimedia kit that combines two or more kinds of auactual lyrics are very much covered under copy- thorship including a sound recording (such as a kit containing a book and an right protection. audiocassette).

Beginning the copyright registration process

When to Use Form PA The website for submitting your song for copy- (Performing Arts) For registration purposright in the United States is es, musical compositions and dramatic works http://www.copyright.gov/. that are recorded on On this website, you‘ll be able to print forms for disks or cassettes are mailing in the music you want to copyright, or you works of the performing

arts and should be registered on Form PA or Short Form PA. Therefore, if you wish to register only the underlying work that is a musical composition or dramatic work, use Form PA even though you may send a disk or cassette.

Examples of the Proper Use of Forms PA and SR Jane Smith composes words and music, which she entitles “Blowing in the Breeze.” Even though she records it, she is not interested in registering the particular recording but only in registering the composition itself. If she decides to submit “Blowing in the Breeze” for copyright registration, she should use Form PA. Emily Tree performs and records Jane Smith’s “Blowing in the Breeze” after complying with permissions and license procedures. If Emily decides to submit her recording for copyright registration, she should use Form SR. The same principles apply to literary and dramatic works. A recorded performance of an actor speaking lines from “Hamlet” could be registered on Form SR as a All I can say about these kinds of alternatives is sound recording. The claimant in the sound recording, of — DON’T DO THEM! Their ideas may make course, has no copyright in the underlying work, sense to you, but if it ever came down to a court “Hamlet.” battle, you would absolutely want your music properly registered with the copyright office. EspeCopyright registration costs…

There is a cost associated with each application, cially considering the fact that it‘s really not that whether it‘s a Form PA or From SR. Check the expensive if you submit a whole collection of songs Copyright Office‘s website for the most up-to-date at once. Taking the proper means to protect your fees. The good news is, if you’re copyrighting music is something all artists should do as they your own music, you can submit multiple songs move forward with their music careers. under one application for one application fee. So Now that you have a background on how to get if you‘re copyrighting an album of ten songs, as opyour music copyrighted, move forward with the posed to copyrighting them one by one, you‘ll save process so you can get your music out to the massa few hundred bucks when protecting your work. es and get heard!

Plus it saves you the paperwork of copyrighting all of your songs separately.

For a lot more songwriting information, grab your FREE EBook here: Poor-Man’s Copyright, and Other No-No’s It‘s also worth mentioning that there are a couple makeshift copyright alternatives that songwriters http://successforyoursongs.com/freeoffer/ occasionally like to talk about. I don‘t recommend doing these. The most popular is called the ―Poor Man‘s Copyright.‖ This is when you physically mail a recording of your song to yourself via certified mail and keep it sealed. Supposedly the postmark on the envelope will date your music and therefore protect you if someone comes along after that and steals your song. A newer version of this idea is simply putting your song on YouTube or another time-stamped social media outlet. The idea is that your music is dated and therefore protected by the time stamp on the social media site.

Special Bonus: Pamela Moore

by Guest Photographer Alan Birdsell