2015 CVWW March

FEBRUARY 2014

THE Lifestyle Magazine for Custom Vehicle & Music Enthusiasts

ALWAYS FREE

Saints of Rebellion

5

From Grosse Pointe to Rob Zombie’s right hand, John5 has cemented his spot in the pantheon of guitar masters in music. Talk with the man behind the music, take a walk with CV WorldWide on the journey of a man created to play guitar... p. 4

From Laurel, MD to headlining in Suriname, SoR has been melting faces and blowing minds from venue to venue, bringing their personal brand of Rock n Roll to fans both young and old.

CV WorldWide gets cerebral with the gang... p. 26

P. 14

Contents...

NAMM Perspective (from Kathleen Clarkson)

3

NAMM NAMM Product: iZotope RX3

15

NAMM Product: Evelyn Microphone

16

NAMM Product: BAZOOKA Overdrive Pedal

16

NAMM Product: ESP Guitars

17

News You Can Use - Cars: 10 Things Dealers Don’t Tell U

18

Gear the Pros Use: Jay Hitaffer, Saints of Rebellion

42

Gear the Pros Use: Anthony Hitaffer, Saints of Rebellion

43

Order in the Chaos: Brien DeChristopher’s Music Blog

50

News You Can Use - Motorcycle: Insane Things...pt 2

52

Jamie Paullus Jamie Paullus and Kathleen Carlson offer us a view into and perspective of THE 2 shows from NAMM: the NAMM Jam and Metal Allegiance concerts.

Page 44

Sherry Keith Mystic Photography, out and about as always, brings her keen eye to NAMM and offers us HardCore Superstar.

Page 24

CV WorldWide Magazine

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Contact Us: Info@cvworldwidemagazine.com

CV WORLDWIDE MAGAZINE © 2012-14 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. Publi sher 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. Publisher is also to be held harmless from: failure to produce any issue as scheduled due to reasons beyond control; all suits, claims or loss of expenses; this includes but is not limited to, suits for libel, plagiarism, copyright infringement and unauthorized use of a person’s name or photograph.

PureSin @ NAMM

The annual winter NAMM 2015 was again at some. Framous and Warwick the Anaheim Convention Center in gorgeous Ana- had several artists, I can‟t list heim, CA. Yamaha presented, NAMM grand opening them all, but some were William performance with the world famous Disneyland Duvall, Emma Anzai, Devin Band. Anaheim convention center is 3 levels that Townsend, Phil X, Steve Bailey, showcased over 1500 different companies from all Kyle Sanders, and Mike Inez. Every corner your over the world all having something to do within the turned was another signing with a very long line music industry. NAMM brought in all the well- sometimes you were not even able to tell who was known music industry favorites just to name a few signing due to the fact there were so many people was Bigsby, Epiphone, ESP Guitars, Fender, Gibson, around. By the third day there was around 30,000 Gretsch Co., Schecter Guitar, Vic Firth Co., Ludwig people in attendance, it was slow moving but no one Drum Company, and Rock-n-Roll GangStar Inc. was in a hurry to get anywhere everyone was taking They were also over 350 new vendors at this year‟s their time enjoying looking at the merchandise, minNAMM; Wornstar clothing, Chronos Drums, CMG gling, and catching up with friends. While walking Guitars ErgoSonic Percussions, LLC , Golden Age around inside you would never know who you might Audio, Gravity Guitar Picks, Headhunters Drum- run into; we got the opportunity to talk with the amazsticks, House Of Blues Music Forward Foundation ing bass player Phil Chen. He was very so kind. Jamie and Morgan Amps are only a few of the vendors the showed him the pictures he took of him the previous made there debut appearance this year. My favorite night at The OX and The Loon Phil loved them, we vendor was Mighty Mite with Jeff Kylloe; they have must have talked with him for 20 minutes and he was been around since 1970 supplying guitar quality gui- kind enough to take pictured with us. We also got to tar parts. There are also many various string instru- see Steve Wonder, Vinnie Paul of Hell Yeah, a couments as well as brass instruments, actually 100‟s of ple of the guys from GWAR, and watch Ray Parker Jr them, some types I have never seen in my life. There sing „Ghostbusters‟. was even a gorgeous saxophone that had cubic zircoOutside of NAMM there were 4 stages set up nia all over it, priced well into the thousand dollar The Venue Stage, Center Stage, Hilton Anaheim, range. So many types of instruments and anything Lobby Stage, and Anaheim Marriott, Lobby Stage else that deals within the music industry, it was all they played bands on these through the day into the here. evening some of the bands that performed were. The NAMM recognized OME Banjo with an award Paul Cannon Band, Lucas Carpenter, The New Divifor their 55 years of service in the music industry. sion, Shawn Michael Perry, Cole Marcus Trio, Judas The award set next to a beautifully crafted banjo that Priestess, The Killer Queens, Maxwell Hughes, Jessihad 55 engraved in it surrounded by a yellowish or- ca Lynn, and Alex Skolnick and Planetary Coalition. ange flower. It certainly was a beautiful piece of This year‟s NAMM was filled with so much to wood work. see and do it was hard getting in as much as we did Many vendors would have various artists sign- but it was a great adventure and I look forward to ings set up at certain times throughout the 4 day con- next years. ventions which were a great opportunity to meet some Feel free to browse our impressions and coveramazing artist. Ludwig had Brian Tichy, Dave Lom- age of the musical fare from 2015 NAMM, starting bardo, Corey Miller, Matt Starr, Alan White, Bryan on page 44.

Hitt, Jason Sutter, and Jeff Friedl as these were just Kathleen Clarkson

<CV WorldWide> Let’s go back to the <CVWW> Quite a bit different than beginning - growing up in Grosse what you play now.

Pointe, MI…tell us about the “early <J5> Sure. Back then I saw this little boy playing guitar on Hee Haw days”. <John5> It was an amazing upbring- well, he was playing banjo, actually ing - such an incredible childhood - and I was so inspired by him that I everything was perfect…it was just thought ―wow, I want to do something like that‖ but I want to play guiwonderful. tar, I want to play electric guitar. I <CVWW> Regular middle class? saw these guys on Hee Haw playing <J5> Actually, I‘d say upper class. electric guitar, and they were playing Telecasters, and I thought that was <CVWW> Really? the only shape of a guitar available, I <J5> And it was just a beautiful place didn‘t think there were any other to grow up, great environment, the shapes or brands; and you know, it schools are incredible, I have such was really cool, and I was like ―okay, fond memories…look, I know it I like this, I want to play guitar, and I would make for a great story if I said want to play that kind of guitar, a guiI had a terrible upbringing or some- tar that looked just like that‖. I think thing like that, but it was really a that‘s why I play Telecasters today great, great childhood. You know, well, I KNOW that‘s why I play Telelike normal kids I was into universal casters even now. monsters, and playing guitar, and watching TV like any other kid. And <CVWW> Did you have any other it‘s funny, all these years later, noth- hobbies growing up, or once you had the ing has really changed that much. bug it was “all guitar all the time”? <J5> All music all the time - I was <CVWW> And of all things, you got pretty much obsessed with the guitar, attracted to guitar by watching Hee actually. As a matter of fact, I was so Haw? obsessed with guitar that, being a <J5> Yeah, I loved Hee Haw, it‘s just young boy playing and practicing so a great show, and it was a lot of fun much, my left hand actually grew watching, and that‘s what inspired larger than my right hand - it‘s not the me to play guitar. fingers but the palm that stretched - so

at 2 in the morning and have to to go and live with him to at least wake up; but I would get up for have someplace to stay. school, which is why I‘d be able At that point, even just to play clubs around Detroit starting, I knew that this was the throughout high school. place to be - I love CA, always have since I was a kid, and it was <CVWW> How critical do you something I‘d see on TV as a kid think that parental support was at and just know that it was where I that time? wanted to be; I knew all the mu<J5> It was imperative to my sicians were there, everyone inearly development, as you can volved in the industry was out imagine. there, so even at a young age I knew ―that‘s it, yup, there where <CVWW> Did you start with face I want and need to be‖, so I went painting that early, or did it start to CA and never looked back. later? You know playing tough But remember, it wasn‘t clubs, needing that tough look… that I had a bad childhood, it was <J5> I was with a band called beautiful, I was just so dedicated, ―Vampirella‖, and I started with I knew, I basically had blinders those things early on, but also, on, I wanted to live in CA and my heroes were bands like KISS make a living being a session and those types, so the ―look‖ guy. was a lot of fun back then, and As time went along, I honestly, it was entertainment slowly started to work, I lived in too; and I know that people want a place where there was no winmy left hand it oddly larger than to be entertained. dow, no sink, no bathroom, I just my right. stayed there and played, it was <CVWW> Leaving Grosse Pointe Hollywood, and it was amazing. <CVWW> That make it easier to - what was the catalyst behind that I got to meet people, it was really decision, tell us about the process some of the best years of my life, play? that led you to pack your bags and and I really grew up during that <J5> Yes, oh yes. head to California. time - chronologically, emotion<CVWW> Tell us about the music <J5> Well, I know even from a scene in Grosse Point… very young age that I loved CA <J5> It was a very safe, seclud- we were going to and visiting CA ed, protected area - so to play, I quite a bit when I was a boy, would go into Detroit, which was we‘d go to Palm Springs because the bad part of town, and I‘d play my grandparents lived there, and shows there. Well, I was so I knew I wanted to live out there. young, I would play with these When I turned 18, I decided to long haired guys who lived on move to CA, no regrets or second the wrong side of the tracks, so to thoughts.

When I first got to CA, I speak, but they wanted to play with me because, well, I could stayed in this office with these play very well, so I would get to other dudes, and on the first day play these nightclubs in the worst all my money was stolen and I areas you can imagine. But my remember thinking to myself mom said, ―if you can get up for ―wow, how am I going to live school in the morning, you can here?‖ But luckily, I knew one play at night‖.vI would get home other person there, and was able

musician, what kinds of things do you take away from working with Marlette, what helped you mature and develop from knowing him? <J5> I think Bob has taught me so much about writing and recording, and even the industry itself; I‘m still close with him (he produced one of the Rob Zombie albums), he taught me so much, I cherish his friendship even after all these years knowing each other. <CVWW> The opportunity to work with several different people comes along the next period of time, ally, as a musician in Hollywood and it‘s a lot of blood…then he but of significance is the fact that - and there is where you make notices it and hollers ―guitar so- you did not get a gig with Marilyn your mark, your decisions, and lo‖ and runs off stage. Of course, Manson the “first time around”… you mature and grow in that en- Rudy thinks it‘s all part of the <J5> Yes. I remember that - you vironment. It‘s a progression of show, all planned, and he‘s know, I loved Marilyn Manson‘s moving forward in your life and jacked and thinks it‘s awesome, music, I really got it, I was into it big time, I heard that they were music. and that‘s how I met Rudy.

Rudy Sarzo introduces me looking for a guitar player, and, <CVWW> Let’s talk about the to a number of people in the in- well, I just called. I called the stumajor break - at a show, some guy dustry, some of whom I still dio where they were and basicalnamed “Rudy Sarzo”, a musician work with today; so he is defi- ly said ―I hear you‘re looking for of some fame I guess, was in the au- nitely an important figure in my a guitar player‖ and they just said ―oh, we found somebody‖ and dience…tell us what happened career and life. hung up the phone. And that was there. <J5> I was playing these places, <CVWW> Rudy also introduced it. LOL But you know, it wasn‘t and there was nobody there; but you to Bob Marlette; as a young the right time yet, and that‘s just around town folks were still saying ―you need to go see this guy he can really play‖; this was about the time that Whitesnake was huge and on top of the world.

I remember that night there was nobody in the crowd, but said ―let‘s just go out there and play, this is experience for us‖. Well, we‘d come out and play this musical segue for the singer to come out, and when our singer came out, he bumped his head on something in the dark, and now he‘s singing and there is blood coming out of his head,

the way it went.

time - I was very fortunate and that. very lucky, and really had a <CVWW> But from that phone chance to think ―okay, there is <CVWW> Any significance call to working with Rob Halford! something happening, something around the number “5” then?

And, produced by Trent Reznor to it working here, I think good <J5> It is of religious signifithings are in store for me‖. cance, a biblical story; and it was boot! great because I was a huge fan, I <J5> Well, Trent Reznor produced only 1 song on that record <CVWW> But, then, you actually loved Manson, and it was an ex(my favorite song called ―I am a DO get the gig with Marilyn Man- citing time. The funniest thing pig‖) but the main thing is that it son, and he’s the one who actually about that is I remember going home after that lunch, and learnwas such a great experience - and coined your name “John5”… it‘s just one of the many great ex- <J5> That is correct - I went to ing how to sign my name; so I periences in life, what a life it has lunch with him, met him, and he basically figured out how and been just here thinking about it… pretty much gave me the name practiced signing my name for autographs. right then and there. <CVWW> I’m thinking that qual<CVWW> All this happens ified as an “acceptable alternative”, <CVWW> Did he say why? <J5> Yeah, he said he wanted to around the time of the horrible no? <J5> Absolutely! And of course, do everything with numbers, just massacre at Columbine HS in Colothe opportunity to work with Da- focus on things involving num- rado - all of a sudden you feel a vid Lee Roth happened too, so I bers. So he said ―your name is huge social backlash against Mancan say it was just an incredible going to be John5‖, and that was son and his music - do think this

they are the pinnacle of equip- close friends, never for anything ment, and you know I played more than that - someone came Fender when I was a child, and to me and said ―hey, you want to the Telecaster was my instrument make a record, you can do anyof choice, and when they gave thing you want‖, and you know, me my own model, it was unbe- I said ―sure, I‘m going to put out lievable, it was such a proud mo- an instrumental record, not sure ment, a true crowning moment, if anyone knew I could play anyto have my own signature model, thing besides those prior shows I still can‘t get over it. I VERY but let‘s go with it.‖ happy, I feel very fortunate, very So, I put out this record lucky to have my own signature called ―Vertigo‖, it was an instrumodel, it‘s crazy. mental record, it had some bluegrass, some crazy shredding on it, and it did SO well, shockingly well, it was crazy.

They put me on the cover of Guitar Magazine, and it was all over the place, and so, I‘ve been making instrumental recwas proper, was it warranted? ords ever since, and it‘s wild that <J5> Well, no, Manson had people have been flocking to that nothing to do with any of that music. At that time, we already he was a poster boy of blame, has a Steve Vai, Yngwie Malmthey just needed someone to pin steen, and I thought that I had to the blame on for that, it was just do something different from something that happened that those established players, there was horrible, but they said Manwere already so many imitators son was responsible, he was just (rightly so), but I knew I had to a nice convenient target on which go away from that mold and do to throw blame, which was totalsomething different. ly wrong. It was silly, he was blamed for everything bad back then - you know, someone got into a car accident and they <CVWW> It is a legacy that will blamed Manson; you know, that endure long beyond the time we person was listening to Manson‘s leave this earth. music, that sort of stuff. <J5> Yes. <CVWW> And then, to cement <CVWW> And then, Manson and the growing legend and legacy of John5 part ways, mutually amicaJohn5, Fender produces a signature ble and basically time to move on, model guitar, the “John Lowery now you start on a solo career. Do Signature Fender Telecaster”. you feel a different pressure when What does it say about your stand- you produce music as a solo artist ing to have a guitar made with as opposed to being in a band?

YOUR name? <J5> I don‘t know if I feel <J5> And especially Fender, be- ―pressure‖; the truth is that I cause Fender is the Mercedes started doing instrumental recBenz of guitars in my opinion, ords for myself and some of my

And I did. I put a lot of country stuff in there, and all this other influence and style, and I think that‘s what set me apart from those guys, from people who were my guitar heroes. <CVWW> Those guys used to be your heroes, now they are your friends and colleagues…how interesting is that? <J5> Well, they still ARE my heroes. That‘ll never go away.

But now they are my friends as well; I‘ll see Yngwie at a restaurant and say ―hello‖ and chat a bit, but even though they are my friends they will always be my really going to want to hear reach that pinnacle in different this?‖, then you look out from ways with different types of muheroes. the stage and people are coming sic and which is so much fun for <CVWW> Now, on your solo tour, out in droves to see you play, it‘s me of course; also being smart CV WorldWide saw you at Vamp’d so awesome and makes you feel business wise, being careful with (you met my partner and photogra- so good, their love is from the what I‘m doing from that standpher Sherry)… heart, and it makes you just want point - not making a quick deci<J5> Yes, and it was such a great to go out all the time and play for sion, I really try to sit and ponder show, Vamp‘d is a great place to them. People are really digging it, the things I do from a business play. I mean, let me be honest, and I‘m so happy for that. perspective, which is very imwhat you‘re seeing out there, it‘s portant. All along the way, you <CVWW> As far as motivation, is so crazy; all these notes, all these live and learn, and improve, different and crazy songs, all this that what keeps you going? You’ve that‘s the best way of saying it. stuff, I think to myself ―is anyone clearly established yourself one of the greats in music today, as much as you’ve accomplished could it be time for you to kick up your feel on a warm beach with a cold beer?

You’ve certainly earned it. <J5> Yeah, but I‘m doing this for the love of guitar and doing these instrumental shows is so much fun, it‘s the best, there is no reason to do anything else. <CVWW> After so many years in music, so many years at the top of the guitar world, what do you think you do better now than a younger John5? <J5> I kinda learn something new on the guitar every single day, I push myself to improve, to

will. <CVWW> Interesting perspective… <J5> Words of wisdom, I guess.

But it‘s a truth we need to recognize. <CVWW> Let’s talk about social media and the music industry. Back when *I* was a kid, CD’s, vinyl, I even remember 8-tracks…but music distribution has fundamentally changed, how do you see that change in relation to the music industry, do you see it as a good change, or just something you’re going to have to adapt to? <J5> Well, there‘s good and bad. <CVWW> Do you have any ad- Let‘s go with ―the glass is half immediate information, that‘s a vice you might give to a younger full‖ first… plus.

There are things like FaceAnother plus is YouTube.

John5 if you ever had the chance to book and Instagram, and you can With YouTube, and the reason go back in time? really connect and show people it‘s great, is that you can see a <J5> I would just say ―learn what you are doing.

And anyband there; you can say ―hey, what you love to play‖ because body anywhere can look and see I‘m interested in this group, I doing that will make you never what you are doing; let‘s think want to see them, maybe I want want to put down your instruabout what you‘d have to do beto see them play a show, and you ment; learn what you love, have fore all this…and that‘s race to a can go onto YouTube and see a the passion, and by the way, if magazine stand and try to find a video, you can read comments you don‘t do it, someone else magazine that has information about the band you are interested in hearing about. Hopefully they had a magazine with that information too - the right magazine with information about the specific band. But now, you can look for any artist you might want to find and see what is going on, where they are playing, and a ton of other information - while before, you had to go to a magazine, not a website, but a magazine, or even a newspaper, and find this stuff out, and that also if you‘re lucky enough to have them being advertised in those mediums, or have heard it from a friend who heard it from 50 other people - but social media and this

and reviews, and think ―wow, is made of, the different influ- 24th, there are some Zombie these guys are great, I‘m going to ences. That‘s the greatest thing shows coming up, I‘m going to go see ‗em‖. But before, you‘d for me, the diversity of the crowd be scoring Zombie‘s new film have NO idea about them unless - there are country pickers out ―31‖, and then we have a new you knew someone who had there, Zombie fans, guitar shred- Zombie studio record coming out heard them play or seen them, der fans, guys and girls, it‘s such as well, so there‘s a lot going on and would have to rely on that a diverse crowd and I have to this year. person for this type of infor- say, I LOVE that. I‘ll be somemation. So, that‘s another plus. where, and some 50+ fan will <CVWW> Well it sounds you’re a The minus is, well, you come to me and say ―hey, can I busy guy. know, there‘s all this piracy of get a picture‖ then some kid <J5> It‘s the life, and I couldn‘t music, and no one‘s getting paid - who‘s 12 will come to me with be happier. and truly, no one is - the record the same request for a picture and industry has fallen, and I mean I mean, that‘s what I love. It‘s <CVWW> Well, as much as it fallen, there‘s nothing left, every- about the music, and music has hurts, I know our time is up. one is gone, everything is going, no age boundaries, no limits, no John5, It's been it's been an honor all my friends in the industry are rules about who can enjoy it; and a pleasure speaking you for the going or they are gone; because whoever you are, you can like last thirty minutes or so. I don't there‘s so much piracy and steal- the music and see the show. know how to express my gratitude ing music. But it‘s just how it is to you for taking the time out to right now, and I don‘t think it‘ll <CVWW> How does it feel when a speak with us. Keep doing what you ever go back to what it was in the young person meets you and says “I do, it’s fantastic, everyone loves the days past. Wait, I‘ll guarantee play guitar because of you”? work you do, and I wish you nothyou - it‘ll never go back to what it <J5> Well, it‘s great, I know ing but the best this year and in the was; something different or new what that child is thinking, I‘ve coming years. will come along and it will said that myself to musicians; it‘s <J5> Thank you very much I apchange, but it will never go back. a wonderful feeling to inspire preciate it Chris.

And even in collections, when someone, and even better beyou collect on royalties and the cause I know what that feeling is like, that‘s even going bad, be- like, to talk to your guitar hero cause the record companies are and express that to him/her. hurting, and trying to squeeze every penny of profit, and so it‘s <CVWW> How long do you see really hard to get paid. That is yourself playing, do you even see an the seriously bad part of it. end to your life as a musician? <J5> Oh no, I‘ll always be play<CVWW> Thank you for that ing music, it‘s me, it‘s what I do. honesty.

There really isn‘t much else to <J5> It‘s just reality. say, music is me, it‘s why I‘m here, it‘s what I do. I don‘t see <CVWW> Having looked at the stopping that anytime soon, or crowd at your shows, it spans the anytime at all. range of every demographic you can imagine - male/female, young/old, <CVWW> What is coming up in there is a huge diversity of people 2015 for John5? You’ve got a few who enjoy your music and attend more solo shows, right? Then some your shows. What do you think is time on tour with Zombie? the key to your universal appeal to <J5> Yeah, we are going to finthis variety of people? ish up this tour, there‘s a live <J5> I think it‘s what my music Zombie record coming out on the

COVER STORY

THE 2015 NAMM SHOW AT THE ANAHEIM CONVENTION CENTER An Annual Global Gathering of the Music Products Industry THE NAMM SHOW – The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) presents the NAMM Show, an industry-only global music product trade show annually drawing nearly 100,000 music industry leaders to Anaheim.

The NAMM Show is the world's largest trade-only event for the music products industry. The show features 5,000+ music instrument, product and technology brands, including guitars, drums, pianos, synthesizers, band and orchestra instruments, pro audio equipment, DJ gear and more. Additional visual and reporting opportunities include day and evening concerts, interactive demos, artist appearances and onsite interview opportunities with industry leaders, speaking to industry trends and new products.

NAMM is a trade-only business show catering to domestic and international dealers and distributors. The product exhibits are an integral part of the show, allowing the dealers and distributors to see what's new, negotiate deals and plan their purchasing for the next 6 to 12 months: since its inception, NAMM has evolved from a national retail association into an international association whose members now include commercial companies, distributors, affiliates and manufacturers.

About NAMM Foundation The NAMM Foundation is a non-profit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its 9,200 members around the world. The NAMM Foundation works to advance active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs.

NAMM GEAR

iZotope RX 3 Wins NAMM TEC Award for Outstanding Technical Achievement iZotope's RX 3 Audio Repair Suite has won the top award for Outstanding Technical Achievement in the category Signal Processing Software at the 30th Annual NAMM Technical Excellence & Creativity Awards. The award ceremony was held on Saturday, January 24 during the NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. "We are honored to be the recipient of yet another TEC Award, and we would like to thank the voters for their support," said Rob D'Amico, iZotope's Product Management Director. "Customer feedback is the most important consideration in our product development. We continuously strive to develop tools that make audio professionals' work faster, easier, and sound better. The TEC Award tells us that we're on the right track."

RX is used by musicians, post production professionals, audio engineers, and video editors alike to transform previously unusable audio into pristine material for their productions by removing noises, distortion, reverb, and other common audio problems.

RX 3 was nominated for the award by a panel of pro audio and music industry professionals who carefully review products in each category. iZotope also received the coveted TEC award in 2009 for Ozone, their complete mastering system, and in 2014 for Insight, their essential metering suite.

The NAMM TEC Awards are the professional audio and music production industry's most prestigious awards honoring excellence in sound technology and creativity.

About iZotope, Inc. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, iZotope has spent over a decade developing award-winning products and audio technologies for professionals and hobbyists alike. Used by millions of people in over 50 countries, iZotope products are a core component of GRAMMYwinning music studios, Oscar and Emmy-winning film and TV post production studios, and prominent radio studios.

For more information on iZotope products, please visit www.izotope.com.

COVER STORY

Ear Trumpet Labs, based in Portland, OR, has announced the release of a new stereo microphone, Evelyn. Evelyn is a stereo mic consisting of two closely matched medium-large diaphragm capsules mounted in individually pivoting head baskets spaced at the correct distance for the ORTF stereo recording technique. Both the capsules and the JFET transistors for each side of the stereo pair are exactingly hand-matched for perfect stereo imaging. The electronics are hand-wired using the finest components, and the result is spectacularly natural stereo sound.

Evelyn is adept for many applications beyond standard stereo micing as well. Evelyn makes an ideal live micing solution for acoustic ensembles from traditional bluegrass bands to string quartets, with great feedback control and off-pattern rejection.

Of course the striking design of Evelyn complements the stunning sound; everyone will be pleased to work with her, and on a live stage she looks distinctive and gorgeous. Our solid designs are hand made from copper plumbing pipe and fixtures, electrical flanges, brass, and stainless steel.

About Ear Trumpet Labs Founded in Portland, Oregon in 2011, Ear Trumpet Labs is a craft builder of unique microphones for adventurous musicians and recordists. Combining technical expertise, the highest-grade hand-selected electrical components, and a sculptural craft aesthetic, the company is committed to bringing the best of visual and sonic creativity to musicians around the world.

The BAZOOKA Over Drive Pedal from David Allen Pickups is a low to medium gain overdrive with very responsive dynamics and brown face fender type sag and midrange while pushing into Marshall territory. The gain structure is chewy with a great tube rectifier sag. It pushes not just the mids but the highs and lows as well so it has a wide tonal influence that gives you smooth buttery mids without loss of the highs.

Controls: Elevation = Volume Chatter = Gain Range = Tone LOAD SWITCH: FAT – NORMAL - LARD The three way switch in the middle most position will have the OD at its brightest setting, as you move left you add more Mids and to the Right adds Mids and Lows while retaining Highs.

Hand wired True Bypass Socketed OpAmp Through hole component board 9v DC negative tip power supply or battery

NAMM 2015: ESP's Best Show Ever It was a little bit like guitar and bass heaven in the ESP booth at NAMM. We displayed more instruments than we‘d ever done at NAMM or any event in our history. In addition to the entire lineup of ESP Original, ESP USA, ESP E-II, LTD, and Tombstone guitars, we also had another 80+ ―Exhibition Limited‖ guitars from our custom shop in Japan. These are one-of-a-kind guitars that show the incredible craftsmanship of our expert luthiers, and were pretty much the talk of the show. There was never a single moment over the four days of NAMM that a crowd of people didn‘t gather in front of these supremely amazing instruments, taking pictures and marveling over the special inlays, woods, and components on each hand-crafted guitar and bass.

The reaction to our new models was extremely positive. In particular, we had a lot of people checking out our new baritone and 7- and 8-string guitars in the LTD Series. The newly-available Arrow shape (in both LTD and ESP E-II versions) was definitely a hit, as was the new LTD M-1000SE and FRX models. Another highlight was the amount of attention people paid to our brand new Tombstone acoustic guitars, which were making their debut at NAMM. Also, our new and updated artist Signature Series guitars and basses from players like Gary Holt (Exodus/Slayer), Javier Reyes (Animals As Leaders/Mestis), Frank Bello (Anthrax), and many more got some great attention.

At every other NAMM Show previous to 2015, most of our artist-related activities had to do with signing sessions. Look, there‘s nothing wrong with waiting in line for an hour and then spend a few seconds meeting and greeting with your favorite ESP artists, but we felt it was time to step up the experience for our NAMM booth visitors. After all, what would you rather do than hear some of the world‘s best guitarists play live a few feet in front of you? That‘s why this year, we stuck to a series of live performances throughout the entire show.

During NAMM, we had some heavy hitters playing at our booth, included George Lynch (KXM)

Frank Bello (Anthrax)

Syu (Galneryus).

All were amazing in their own way. We pretty much allow our artists to do whatever they want in their time slot, and different people take different approaches. Frank, perhaps the world‘s most happy man in front of a crowd of people, told hilarious stories, played various well-known bass lines from Anthrax and others, and even invited members of the crowd to come up and try out his signature basses.

George and Syu took a more traditional approach: they just blew everyone‘s collective heads off with their incredible playing. All in all, ESP is proud of our guitars, artists, and our presence in the music industry.

10 THINGS CAR DEALERS WON’T TELL YOU MSN Autos

owned ones — meaning they might not be as sup1) WELCOME TO MCDEALER Americans are buying new vehicles again in portive of local charities and volunteer efforts. a big way. Sales in 2014 sales were expected to Moreover, they say car buyers might not be able to reach at least 16.5 million units, the highest level negotiate as good a deal with a dealer that‘s part of since 2006. And the sales fervor is expected to con- a larger group. ―There‘s often no way around a fee tinue this year: Cars.com projects 2015 sales will that may come from the top down,‖ says Melinda reach 17.1 million units, and sales surged in Janu- Crump of Sageworks, a financial analysis and information company that tracks car dealers and othary, typically a slower month for the industry.

But the buying boom dovetails with another er industries. key development in the industry — namely, a shift in where Americans buy their cars and trucks. For 2) THOSE DEALS IN OUR ADS MAY REALdecades, Americans shopped at independently LY BE TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE owned dealers — family-run places that typically bore the owner‘s name and were often seen as fixtures in their communities. But in recent years, a new kind of dealer has started to take root — a corporate-driven one with dozens of locations, sometimes spread across many states.

It‘s all part of a post-Great Recession consolidation — since 2007, the number of new-car dealers in the U.S. has fallen from 21,200 to 17,665, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) — as the industry looks for ways to become leaner and more effective. By having several dealer locations, a company can easily reduce back-office expenses per location. (Another You know those dealer advertisements that contributing factor to the dealer-count decline: the fact many car brands that were around at the turn tout deals that seem too good to be true? It turns of the century — from Oldsmobile to Saturn — no out that‘s often the case, warns the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It advises consumers to be longer exist.)

How big is the corporate-dealer trend be- wary when it comes to ads that promise an incredicoming? Big enough that Warren Buffett is joining bly low price (―What may be missing: The low the bandwagon. In October 2014, he announced price is after a down payment,‖ the FTC says) or that his Berkshire Hathaway company would ac- that promise very low interest rates. (―What may quire the Van Tuyl Group, a dealer group with be missing: The low advertised annual percentage more than 75 locations nationwide. (The purchase rate…may apply only to loans up to a certain amount,‖ the FTC says.) price was not disclosed.)

The FTC pursues plenty of cases against Some industry insiders and analysts question whether corporate-driven dealers will be as in- dealers that practice such deceptive advertising. In grained in their communities as independently early 2014, for example, it announced a 10-dealer

―sweep,‖ spread across six states, involving everything from a dealer that advertised contest prizes that failed to materialize to a dealer that hid ―substantial fees‖ in its lease promotions. Is it any wonder that new car dealers ranked among the top five businesses to have complaints filed against them with the Better Business Bureau?

Many dealers maintain that they adhere to the highest ethical standards and that the industry has cleaned up its act considerably in recent years.

Duane Paddock, owner of Paddock Chevrolet in Buffalo, N.Y., says it‘s a ―night and day‖ change since he entered the business more than 30 years ago, adding that ―99% of dealers operate honestly…You can‘t afford not to.‖ NADA ―strongly actually lost money per vehicle, according to NAcondemns false advertising and the harm it can DA.) The profit margins have gotten so low in cause consumers,‖ says Paul Metrey, chief regula- large part because of the Internet and the growing tory counsel for the association. transparency in pricing — consumers are able to drive a better bargain because they know what eve3) THE BEST DEALS AREN’T IN OUR ryone is charging.

But with such low margins, how can dealers SHOWROOM make money?

Increasingly they‘re looking to just Over the years, car buyers have been accustomed to getting a better price by haggling in the about every other department in the dealership — showroom. But these days, that‘s not necessarily especially their service and parts department — to the surest way to score a great deal. Increasingly, drive revenue. The strategy seems to be working: consumers are finding success by working through In 2013, service and parts revenue was up 6.8% a middleman of sorts. A case in point: TrueCar, over the previous year, according to NADA. And which negotiates discounts with a network of more as NADA pointed out in its most recent annual rethan 9,000 dealers and says car buyers save an av- port: ―During 2003-2013, net profit in the service erage of $3,221 off the manufacturer suggested re- and parts department has been higher than in the new- and used-vehicle departments.‖ In other tail price by shopping through its service.

Buyers can also find success dealing directly words, car sales are becoming something of a loss with a dealer‘s Internet sales department. Increas- leader in the industry.

Of course, car buyers should probably know ingly, dealers are positioning sales staff to work with consumers online or by phone (or even text that as much as dealers are depending on them to message) and they‘re offering some of their best return for service, dealers might not be the cheappricing to buyers who go this route. The incentive est game in town. Independent mechanics typically for the dealer? Working with consumers this way is charge less for repairs and maintenance: A survey often quicker and easier, since there‘s none of the by AutoMD, a site that provides information about car repairs, found that car owners who go to indeproverbial, time-consuming kicking of the tires. pendents save roughly $300 a year. Still, dealers 4) WE’RE SELLING YOU A CAR SO WE maintain that they‘re the best source for service because of the manufacturer-specific knowledge and CAN SELL YOU SOMETHING ELSE Americans may be happily buying new vehi- experience they bring to the table (er, service bay). cles, but that doesn‘t mean dealers are profiting greatly from those transactions. In fact, the average 5) WE’D MUCH RATHER STEER YOU TO dealer profit per vehicle in 2013 amounted to a OUR USED-CAR LOT mere $69, according to NADA — and that‘s before Don‘t be surprised if a dealer is a little more enthucommissions are paid out to sales staff. (The situa- siastic when talking to you about used cars. The tion was even worse in 2006-2010, when dealers reason is simple: There‘s more money in them.

10 THINGS CAR DEALERS WON’T TELL YOU (CONT) MSN Autos

NADA reports an average dealer profit of $254 per 6) WE PUSH OPTIONS YOU MAY NOT used vehicle — or more than three times the profit NEED on a new vehicle. That‘s because used cars are very different animals: Buyers can‘t really comparison shop from one dealer to the next in the same way as with new cars because each used car is a unique case, with its own mileage, condition and history.

That gives the dealer — and the dealer‘s sales staff — a better pathway to profit. To quote one car salesman‘s take: ―Honestly, used cars are really where the money is made. I earned more on a used car with 95,000 miles than I did on many brand-new ones.‖ The catch for car buyers, of course, is that dealers aren‘t necessarily the best place to shop for a used car — at least from a price perspective. Consider that a well-maintained 2012 Honda Accord is Dealers don‘t just try to sell you a car. They likely to sell for around $16,300 at a dealership, ac- try to sell you options — and plenty of them. cording to the Kelley Blue Book car buying guide. Think rust protection (yes, the classic undercoatBut that same car is likely to sell for around $2,000 ing), fabric protection and extended warranties. less through a private party. Still, Jack Nerad, ex- They may even offer to fill your tires with nitrogen. ecutive editorial director for Kelley Blue Book, The cost for such services isn‘t cheap — an extendnotes there are advantages to going through a deal- ed warranty (typically providing three to five years er — namely, dealers typically inspect used cars of coverage) can add an average of $1,214 to the thoroughly, fix any major problems and offer some purchase price, says Consumer Reports. kind of warranty on top of that. By contrast, if you But experts say these options may not be buy a used car privately, ―You‘re buying as is and necessary — or can be found cheaper outside the have no recourse‖ in case of problems, says Nerad. dealership. Edmunds, another car buying guide, NADA points out that dealers also offer the option points out that a $279 ―appearance package‖ that of buying a certified used vehicle, which typically one dealer charged amounted to nothing more comes with greater warranty protection and special than basic pinstriping. And as Edmunds adds: ―We financing offers. found that you can buy rolls of pinstriping tape for between $2 and $10 and have the project done by a professional for between $50 and $100.‖ As for extended warranties, Consumer Reports says they rarely pay off, since they save car buyers only an average of $837 on repairs. ―Based on a $1,214 average initial cost, that works out to a net loss of more than $375,‖ Consumer Reports says.

7) YOUR FINAL PRICE IS NOT ALWAYS SO FINAL Many car buyers assume the deal is done when they‘ve settled on a make and model and negotiated a final price. Imagine their surprise when they

get the bill and sometimes see a hefty extra charge say the feast-or-famine nature of sales commissions — a ―dealer fee‖ or ―doc fee‖ that‘s intended to and the sheer demands of the job (for example, compensate the dealer for the time and effort in- having to work weekend shifts) can lead to dissatisvolved in processing the purchase. In some cases, faction and the parting of ways. ―The professional the fee can go as high as $2,000, according to Earl salesperson who‘s going to sell for 20 or 30 years is Stewart, owner of Earl Stewart Toyota in Lake a pretty rare thing,‖ says Nerad of Kelley Blue Park, Fla., and a staunch critic of the practice (he Book. Still, as dissatisfied as some salespeople may calls the fee nothing more than ―disguised profit‖). be, it‘s car shoppers who often pay the real price In a survey, TrueCar found that the average fee for the turnover, experts say, since they can‘t build varied greatly from state to state — in Iowa, it‘s a continuing relationship with a salesperson. And $146; in Florida, it‘s $610 — but it and other fees in some instances, they may be dealing with beginstill amounted to something that ―can really inflate ners who are not as knowledgeable about model your ‗out the door‘ price.‖ features and accessories as a veteran might be.

Many dealers say the dealer (or doc) fee is Dealers and others connected to the industry legitimate because of the complex nature of the say they are working to reduce turnover. They also business and the paperwork that must be filed on say that regardless of a salesperson‘s years of expebehalf of consumers. (That said, the fee has noth- rience (or lack thereof), dealer staff is prepared to ing to do with the costs of registration and title help customers. ―Dealers spend time and money charges themselves, which are determined by the ensuring salespeople are trained on the vehicles bestate.) Either way, consumer watchdogs suggest ing offered in their shop,‖ says Tony Argiz, chief the best way to deal with the dealer fee is to ask executive of MBAF, an accounting firm that speabout it upfront and then factor it into the out-the- cializes in the automotive industry. door price when price shopping from one showAs NADA points out, while turnover is an room to the next. It‘s also worth noting that some issue, it isn‘t one unique to the dealer industry. For states place a cap on the dealer fee. example, the turnover rate for part-time retail workers in 2013 reached 74.9%, according to Hay 8) OUR ‘VETERANS’ HAVEN’T BEEN Group, a management consultant.

AROUND THAT LONG 9) PARDON OUR DUST Car dealership or construction zone? These days, it‘s sometimes hard to tell the difference.

That‘s because dealers have been on a remodeling kick of late. AutoNation estimates it‘s put $350 million into facilities nationwide over the last four years. Individual dealers are tackling overhauls that cost anywhere from $600,000 to several million, according to one published report.

The drive to renovate is partly driven by dealers‘ desire to stay current, especially in a retail environment that puts a premium on a sleek, contemporary design (think Apple stores). But it‘s also coming from the auto manufacturers themselves — If it seems like every time you‘ve shopped in some instances, they are pushing dealers to do for a car at a particular dealer, a whole new staff the costly upgrades, which can include such amenigreets you, it‘s probably not your imagination. The ties as coffee bars and gift shops, to give their turnover rate for salespeople at new-car dealers in brands a consistent look. (And in some instances, 2013 was 66%, according to NADA. That means a manufacturers do help pay for the remodeling dealer with 15 salespeople parted ways with and work.)

In the short term, all this renovating and uplikely replaced 10 during the year, NADA says. grading may mean the consumer is slightly inconWhy the constant revolving door? Experts

10 THINGS CAR DEALERS WON’T TELL YOU (CONT) MSN Autos

venienced. But in the long term, it could mean the er Elon Musk says the old-school dealer network is car shopper winds up paying more. ―These costs not up to the task of selling a car driven — literally are passed on,‖ says Mike Wickenden, founder of — by such new technology. He also balks at the CarComplaints.com, a consumer-oriented site. dealer model of selling service on top of selling Dealers counter that it‘s the consumer who cars. ―It does not seem right to me that companies benefits from newer and upgraded facilities, espe- try to make a profit off customers when their prodcially since some of the improvements are also uct breaks,‖ he has written. aimed at speeding up transaction times. ―It‘s absoThe Tesla model is naturally appealing to lutely about the customers,‖ says Cannon of Auto- many consumers since, by cutting out the middleNation. Cannon also insists that AutoNation does man, it could potentially spell lower prices (and not increase prices to cover remodeling expenses. less haggling). And Tesla is not alone in considerAnd NADA says if dealers want to stay competi- ing a more direct sales model — GM has talked it tive price-wise, they simply can‘t risk passing on up of late as well, albeit in a way that would still such expenses. ―Just because you invest millions of keep dealers in the loop. dollars in a facility doesn‘t mean you can charge To some extent, dealers have little reason to more,‖ says NADA chief economist Steven Sza- fear Tesla and others touting direct sales, since kaly. state laws generally protect their business model and require that auto makers sell through a third 10) TESLA IS CHALLENGING OUR WAY OF party. Still, the Tesla situation clearly has dealers concerned. In fact, NADA has issued a position DOING BUSINESS Tesla has gotten plenty of attention in the paper defending their franchise sales model. To auto industry for its pioneering electric cars. But in quote NADA, franchised dealers ―provide top the dealer world, it‘s gotten just as much attention sales and service experiences, allowing auto manufor its sales model — which involves selling direct facturers to concentrate their capital in their core to consumers with no dealer involved. Tesla found- areas: designing, building and marketing vehicles.‖

2015 Hit Like A Girl Contest Kicks Off World's Only Global Online Event Promoting Female Drumming Hit Like A Girl is a global, online contest for female drummers that drew competitors from 45 countries in 2014. Now in its fourth year, the 2015 event is shaping up to be the biggest yet.

New Sponsors Join Program The 2015 Hit Like A Girl Contest features several returning sponsors as well as some new ones. This year‘s presenting sponsors are Zildjian, Evans, and DW Drums. Additional sponsors include: Sabian Cymbals, Mapex Drums, Yamaha and Yamaha DTX Drums, Alfred Music, Musicians Institute, Innovative Percussion, Vater, Promark, Puresound, SKB, TRX, Vic Firth, Audix, and Cympad.

Media Sponsors Media sponsors from around the world have been enlisted to help support the contest, including: the Percussive Arts Society, Drum Channel, Hudson Music, Drum Guru, Alternative Press, DRUM! Magazine, Tom Tom Magazine and the Enter Music Network and Online Drummer as well as Drumhead (US), Music Radar/ Rhythm Magazine (UK), Drums & Percussion (Germany) and DrumScene (Australia).

Judges Joining 2015 event spokesperson Didi Negron (Cirque du Soleil, right) as celebrity judges are Sheila E, Hannah Ford-Welton (Prince), Venzella Joy (Beyoncé), Debbie Knox-Hewson (Charli XCX), Kate Schellenbach (Luscious Jackson), Jess Bowen (The Summer Set), Alicia Warrington (Kate Nash), Cherisse Ofusu-Osei (Bryan Ferry) and Nia Lovelis (Cherri Bomb). The judging panel also includes leading YouTube artists Meytal Cohen, Anika Nilles, Motown legend Bobbye Hall, and Lux Drummerette, as well as 2014 HLAG Champions Riesha Fayson and Kanade Sato.

Schedule of Events.

2015 Hit Like A Girl Contest opens for online video entries at 12:01 AM PST on March 1, 2015. Two pair of Weekly Winners will be chosen by celebrity/industry judging teams and announced March 12, 19, 26, April 2, 9 with the entry period closing on April 8. Fan Voting Open April 10 and closes April 22. The Top Twenty Weekly and fan-selected finalists in both the over and under 18 age divisions will be announced on April 23 followed by celebrity judging from April 24 and May 4. The final winners will be chosen during an online event on May 7.

International Ambassadors HLAG Ambassadors represent nearly 2 dozen countries around the world and are responsible for expanding the awareness of drumming and increasing participation in the contest by organizing promotional activities through their local and social media contacts.

Where To Find Out More Web site: http://www.hitlikeagirlcontest.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HitLikeAGirlContest Twitter: @hlagcontest

Heads up America; the boys in Saints of Rebellion are thundering their way through the US and the world with their personal brand of Rock n Roll. Soulful, bluesy vocals combined with power-driven instrumentals unite to create a sound that excites a wide-range of audiences, appealing to fans of arena rock and heavy metal.

CV WorldWide Magazine is honored to introduce our readers to a new heavyweight in

<CV WorldWide> What is it about THIS combination of musicians that you think works so well? <JOHN>: Maturity that comes from having been in business for a long time. Mutual respect for one another‘s strengths <ANTHONY>: In my opinion, it works so well because we each bring to the table something unique. None of us are identical in any way, especially when it comes to our taste in music and our musical inspirations. For example, I have had my hand in many different types of cookie jars when it comes to my personal taste in music, such as: rock, <CV WorldWide> alright, first last year as the drummer? things first - who is in the band and <ANTHONY>: That is true. metal, punk, rap, jazz, blues, My official first show was an out- funk, and even classical (but what is their role? door festival in sunny Florida those are just the main ones). I Coby DeShazo on vocals (John's home state). I flew down do not feel compelled to stick to John Adams on guitar to Florida from Maryland, we liking only one style of music like Jay Hitaffer on bass guitar practiced twice in a studio owned some people choose to do. When Anthony Hitaffer on drums.

by Stet Howland (the drummer of you research a topic for your own <CV WorldWide> tell us how the WASP), and we played the show personal interest, you don‘t just b a n d c a m e t o g e t h e r - two days later. In a way it was utilize only one type of resource, "MaryFLARkansas" is a long way kind of my trial by fire. At that right? No, you dive in head first away from each other... point I either came into the stu- into the research and search for <JAY>: In October of 2013, I dio knowing all the material in- information through all the differwas approached by HighVol Mu- side and out & got the thumbs up ent channels you can get your sic Label owner, Bill Chavis. I from everyone in the band or I had worked with Bill on a previ- was going home. Lucky me I am ous project and we always joked pretty good at handling pressure. about starting something from <JAY>: Yes! Anthony is my scratch. He paired up Ryche youngest brother. I've been playGreen (Bullet Boys and Modern ing music with him all of his life.

Superstar Drummer) and I and Once Ryche decided to move on the search for the remaining to his next project, it was perfectmembers began! We went ly clear to me who would be takthrough a few musicians prior to ing his place. Anthony was prelanding the current line up. Once sent during our Maryland writing John Quincy Adams 13th walked sessions and was Ryche's underin the door, I knew that this was study from the start. going to be something awesome.

It was like finding a long lost <CV WorldWide> Any special story about the name? brother! <JAY>: The name was created <CV WorldWide> Did I read right by HighVol Music owner, Bill that Anthony was just added mid Chavis.

hands on. Well, that‘s how I do was 10 years old. My parents met it anyway. in the music industry and played <JAY>: I feel that it is our dedi- music overseas. So, for me it was cation to the music that makes only second nature to have an inthis combination work. John strument in my hands all the Quincy Adams 13th is the main time. By the time I was in High writer in the band. And as you School, I was playing out 3-4 can hear, he can write some great nights a week music. Anthony and I are huge <ANTHONY>: My first interest fans of his writing style. It chal- is one I still hold dear to my heart lenges us enough to keep us from and still practice everyday, and being bored on stage. I also feel that is my love for writing and that having a good attitude comes drawing comic books. I was putinto play here. I've been in sever- ting pencil to paper way before I al bands where I'd rather kick in a was banging skins with drumfellow band member‘s teeth than sticks. In fact, I am currently play music with them. When you working on my web comic titled get to that point, it's time to find a Hair Trigger, which you can read more professional group of peo- at awhitaffer.weebly.com. My ple to jam with! I love playing second interest growing up was with these guys. I look forward to martial arts. I was always either it! watching a movie or reading a master within the next year. I books about all of the many dif- did not get bit by the rock star <CV WorldWide> Did any of you ferent types of martial arts from bug until freshman year in high have other interests while growing around the world. It was not un- school. up? til I graduated high school that I <JOHN>: Star Wars, lifting actually enrolled in a school and <CV WorldWide> When you first weights, wrestling (not the TV earned a degree (although I was came together, what were your inikind), females. being taught a more crude style tial expectations? <JAY>: I wanted to be a Police of martial art/street fighting from <ANTHONY>: I knew it was Officer when I was a kid! So, I my older brothers as I grew up). going to be work. Jay and John served for over 10 years. I've been Now I am currently in training wanted to be sure I knew what I playing bass professionally since I with my grandmaster to become was getting myself into because they both are very honest and respectable men. There was no wool being draped over my eyes that was for sure. <JAY>: The label wanted a Motley Crue with John Corabi sound. I didn't know who John Corabi was. Hell, I didn't know Vince Neil ever left Motley Crue!

LOL I definitely wanted something a bit more challenging than Motley Crue. No offense to Nikki Sixx. He's a great bassist! I just wanted something more substantial than another remake of another 80's band. Here in Baltimore, MD you can't throw a rock

without hitting one! I just really and worked in the studio. To be band that just stands there in wanted something more original. honest, I was a big fan of the their blue jeans and t-shirts. AnyNothing like the last bands I had band even before I joined it. body can do that! I like the musibeen in. cians that work hard on stage, <CV WorldWide> Who do you have originality in their attire, <CV WorldWide> Of course every guys count as your musical influ- and play like the gods! <ANTHONY>: That is a very band wants to be successful, were ences? you mentally prepared to explode <JOHN>: SABBATH, ZAKK substantial list. I have so many like you have?

WY L DE , S LA S H, RI CH musical influences that I tend to <JAY>: Once I heard the album, WARD, SKYNYRD, MAIDEN, forget to mention some of them I knew we were onto something OZZY, PRIEST, SOIL, TEXAS when this question pops up. special. I really dug the tunes! I HIPPIE COALITION, just to Here goes, they are: KISS, never thought it would take off name a few. I could go on for Queen, Aerosmith, Poison, Stryper, Foo Fighters, Springlike this! It's really a dream come days…. true to be on the cusp of some- <JAY>: When it comes to play- steen, Radiohead, Ben Folds, thing amazing like this. It's hum- ing bass, I like the guys who have Yoko Kano (Seatbelts), Beatles, bling, frightening, and exciting all mastered more than just playing The Monkees, Iron Maiden, Jualong with songs. Like, Billy das Priest, Mega Death, Metalliat the same time. <ANTHONY>: I knew this al- Sheehan, Flea, Les Claypool, ca, Motley Crue, Phil Collins, bum had immense potential even Victor Wooten, Steve Harris, Green Day, The Clash, Sex Pisbefore I joined the band and be- John Paul Jones, Stanley Clarke, tols, The Ramones, The Rolling came its drummer and part of its and Jaco Pastorius. When it Stones, CCR, David Bowie, and rhythm section. I had the honor comes to stage performance, I on and on. of hearing these songs, as they like the guys who entertain the were being worked and worked audience. I'm not big into any <CV WorldWide> What or who

stage setting.

man. <JOHN>: Many of them are <CV WorldWide> Is there any quite personal to me. I always "message" to your music? What, if write from life experience vs. creanything, do you want to accom- ated scenarios. plish through your songs? <JOHN>: Some of the songs <CV WorldWide> What motivates have a clear message, some are you guys to keep improving, to keep more ambiguous, open to one‘s expanding your horizons as musiown interpretation. There IS a cians and a band? recurring theme of rising above <JOHN>: Many of my favorite adversity, fighting the odds, and bands; Priest , Sabbath, Anthrax, individualism.

Machine Head continue to put out new music, after many years <CV WorldWide> Do any of your and albums in business, that are do you guys listen to in your own songs speak to you on a deep per- as good as anything in their ―classic‖ catalogs . One should sonal level? downtime? <ANTHONY>: It depends on <JAY >: ― New Amer ic an never stop evolving and get too what I‘m in the mood for, and Dream‖ hits home with me. Our comfortable with the status quo. honestly that can change from music video for it was based up- Evolution is the key to life day to day. I love music that not on images that connect us to that <JAY>: The greatest part about only makes you move or feel, but song. So, when you see that vid- being in SOR is that we have yet it makes you think as well. Some eo, you‘re seeing multiple views to conform to one specific genre types of music narrate everything of inspiration that come together of music. It can be extremely the creators want you to hear, to become one specific meaning. challenging to write songs that are so different from each other, while some music just gives you I love it! the bare minimum and lets your <ANTHONY>: The song ―Rise‖ yet alike enough to be on the really speaks to me on a personal same album without turning own senses fill in the rest. <JAY>: I like all genres of music level because it reminds me of some one away. The album needsomething my father used to tell ed to be like a perfect mix tape. except Gangster Rap. <JOHN>: Mostly newer bands: us, his sons, when we were feel- Once you start listening, you Soil, Texas Hippie Coalition, ing beaten up or defeated. He don't stop until it's over!

Machine Head, BLS, Slipknot, used to say that, ―everyone falls <ANTHONY>: Personally, it is etc. as well as a healthy dose of off their horse, but real champi- my desire to be the best I can be classic real metal: Sabbath, Ozzy, ons dust themselves off and climb in every facet of my life. PhysiPriest, Maiden, Metallica, An- back on.‖ He was a very wise cally, mentally, emotionally, and thrax, etc. <CV WorldWide> What can fans expect to see at a show? <JOHN>: Always giving it our all <JAY>: We bring our arena style rock show to any venue. You will see a refined professional kick ass performance no matter what venue or bar we play! <ANTHONY>: High energy, raw emotion, and four guys doing what they love most on a

sic, they smile and say, man I truly don‘t feel worthy of such those guys were good, they were praise) is quite a compliment. really something special, they inspired me to go after my dreams <CV WorldWide> What is it and never give up…ever. about your music and sound that you think appeals to fans? <CV WorldWide> Your sound has <JOHN>: Strait up, no bullshit, been compared to none other than rock music will always have an Black Label Society...is that a fair audience, regardless of what comparison? Are you intimidated trends the sheep are buying into by living up to that? any particular year. I don‘t write <ANTHONY>: Personally, I am ―fair weather‖, trend dependent honored to be compared to Black songs. Its all genuine, no frills Label Society and I know John is rock. Considering that there are a absolutely flattered by it as well couple songs on the record that because he is a huge fan of theirs. date as far back as 14 years, valiThere is no intimidation, just re- dates the timeless nature of the music. Kirk Hammett said it best; spect. when recording Metallica‘s ―St. spiritually, I want to have a firm Anger‖, he was told NOT to play grasp on all things that have the guitar solos, as it would make the potential to control my life. As a album sound dated. His response band, I think that it is our mutual was ―quite the contrary, not playrespect for each other and for muing solos, dates the album to this sic that motivates us to keep exparticular time period‖, being panding our horizons. We all 2003. I think he hit the nail on want to have the skills and tools the head. necessary to help each other ex<JAY>: Originality without bepress ourselves through our muing too eclectic. We took the soul sic and stage shows. of Rock & Roll and the heart of Metal and ended up with what <CV WorldWide> In the end, you hear. when it's all said and done, do you <ANTHONY>: I think that it is have any specific legacy you'd like to leave behind? <JOHN>: To be remembered as have been genuine. <JAY>: John is a disciple of the <JAY>: I always hope that what great Zakk Wylde. And that we do will inspire someone to ex- sound is recognizable to anyone press themselves artistically. You who knows BLS. It's an honor to don't have to be a musician with be compared to that greatness. a mohawk, but find your artistic <JOHN>: Yes and no. It‘s quite niche and celebrate it. For me, a compliment. Anyone who that person was Gene Simmons knows me, knows that Zakk is a of KISS. He's why I picked up HUGE influence on me. I don‘t the bass in the first place. And really hear too much BLS in our why question #38 hurt so much music, but given the nature of my to answer. guitar playing, the comparisons <ANTHONY>: I just want that are inevitable . To be compared when everyone listens to our mu- to one of the greats (even though,

our music‘s old-school feel that appeals to our fans. Sure we are a modern band playing in modern times, and we do have a newer and improved sound like a lot of the bands out right now, but there is this ghostly, almost haunting, old-style feel to our songs that to me parallels the classic rock of the seventies. <CV WorldWide> Having played all over the globe, do you have a favorite place to gig? <ANTHONY>: I would have to say right now its Baltimore; my hometown because one, we always have a huge turn out of our awesome fans there and two, there is nothing like playing a no contracts, we all agreed to do had our share of less than excitvenue in your own back yard and the shows. We are men of our ing shows. We had to work our seeing your friends and family in words, and we went to every way back to the east coast to get show and paid to play. The re- to Baltimore after a string of the crowd. <JAY>: Every venue in every sponse was extraordinary! And, shows in the mid-west and did state has provided an amazing we made some amazing industry not know what to expect when original experience. I have loved contacts as well as made friends we got home. When we finally with some pretty amazing got to the venue in Baltimore and them all! bands. were shown to the staging area, it <CV WorldWide> Tell us about <ANTHONY>: Again, it was made me smile to see the look on an incident/show that made all the our last Baltimore show. We John and Coby‘s faces. It was by blood, sweat, & tears really worth- played the largest venue in the far one of the biggest and nicest city and had a big turn out of fans venues that either of them had while... <JAY>: Our first tour set up by and supporters. Like most bands ever played, and in my opinion a our old management company in our position at that time, we long time coming. Jay and mywas on the "Rock Rage Radio Tour". We hadn't received any contracts for any shows up until we were leaving for the tour. So we had no idea what we were making, who we were playing with, and what time to be there.

Basically, our Tour Manager was calling the venues while we were enroute to see if we really had a show, and what time to be there.

It turned out that every show was 300 miles apart and paid $100.

The only way we could've broken even was if we could teleport to every gig. Even though we had

self had played that venue a few power amps to the full PA sys- more and Washington DC, and times before in our previous tem. We had been throttled! I the label is from North Baltimore band, so to see John and Coby on went to kick the sound guys teeth (Forest Hill). We do rehearse that stage that night giving it in and he stated that it was in here when we can, but we actualthere all really made that moment Black & Blues contract that we ly rehearse more in sunny Florida for me. only receive half the PA System then here in MD. We usually that they did. I couldn't believe it! head down there for a few <CV WorldWide> now tell us Such unprofessional BS at this months out of the year to write about something that made you level? I kept asking myself, why and rehearse. We rehearse at Stet would any band want the bands Howland's (Drummer of WASP, think "is this really worth it?" <JAY>: We were direct support before them to sound like shit? Lita Ford, 10,000 Views, and for a show with Black & Blue. Especially when half of that audi- Four by Fate) Studio in Ft. MySometimes, as direct support you ence was there to see us. I still ers. Stet is an inspiration to everyhave to set up in front of the haven't figured it out, but it's now one he meets! As for Baltimore's headliners drum risers...and some in our contract that we will never Rock scene; it finally seems to be getting on its feet again. It would of the stages are pretty small, but be throttled again. be nice to see more originality you do what you have to do. <CV WorldWide> You are curand less 80's remake bands (way Now this venue had an amazing sound system, so everything rently based on Baltimore - is that less). It's extremely difficult to get should've sounded great, but it home, or is there a solid rock music people out of their houses to didn't. It sounded horrible. I scene there? (I'm actually in the DC come to a show here. And even came off stage many times and area, man I'd love to come see you when you do, even when you couldn't figure out why things guys - my nephew also goes to Loyo- bring 100 people out, you barely make any money ($3-$5 per persounded like shit. After the set, I la of MD) saw the sound guy turn on the <JAY>: Right in between Balti- son). That doesn't cover produc-

in rock history didn‘t come to fruition until a band‘s 3rd or 4th album. These days, even if you‘re on a major label, which VERY FEW bands actually are, if you don‘t have a ― hit ― right off the bat, you are over before you ever get started. Bands these days are regarded as disposable commodities, largely having to do with the internet generation. Many people don‘t care about the ―album experience‖ anymore. I always loved albums that took me on a ride, where each song was part of a larger picture. Most newer music consumers have about enough tion costs. So, you start to get am honored they feel that way. attention span to give a song these bare bones rock shows with No pressure here! LOL We'll just about 10 seconds before moving shitty sound and pissed off musi- keep doing what we do, and let on to the next. cians...because they're all PAY- the music take us where it wants 2 - There is little money to be ING TO PLAY. It's all back- to go. made by selling music. Rock wards! <JOHN>: No, not really. I didn‘t bands HAVE to get out and play <JOHN>: I‘m in SW Fla. We come in to this with any precon- live to generate any income or have a GREAT scene with many ceived notions that people would fan base, which can be tough at new, original, bands. love what we do. It‘s a pleasant times, considering that most lasurprise that people do, but it bels don‘t provide any tour sup<CV WorldWide> K-Rock from won‘t sway the way I write songs port any more.

MidAtlantic calls you "one of the or what I write about. I‘m a bit 3 - Most modern rock radio stabig breakout bands to watch in set my ways and who I am, so it‘s tions are corporate controlled and 2015" - does that put any pressure nice that other people also seem will play music from new bands to relate to that. Not to sound ar- unless they are given large sums on you? <ANTHONY>: Pressure comes rogant, or cocky, but I write mu- of money to do so, which is why with the territory in this business. sic that I like, first and foremost. I you don‘t hear much new music Every show should have some won‘t play music that I‘m not in- from new bands played on terresamount of pressure behind it. I to, which is why I don‘t play in trial radio. <JAY>: The music industry has know it does for me because eve- cover bands. changed some, but the big dogs ry show is going to be the best show I have ever played. Once <CV WorldWide> how do you are still holding the cards. Yes, an artist allows mediocrity to be- think the music industry has the internet has created another form of marketing that gives the come an every night occurrence, changed from the old days? they are done and should hang <JOHN>: 1 - There will be very little guy a chance to spread their few bands and songs that will re- word. But, you still need the supup their spurs. <JAY>: K-Rock and Sheila from garded in the same light as the port of "big money" if you want Mid-Atlantic Rock Review have great music from the 60‘s and to get big fast (money talks!). been with us since before our in- 70‘s. There is no such thing as That's where the focus of our ception. We love them, and are artist development any more, struggle is. We would love to be thankful for all the faith and sup- where bands were given label spun on big radio, and we're port they have given us over the support and multiple album working our butts off to get that years! I trust their opinions and deals. Some of the greatest songs break. That's why we tour. We're

hoping that we break into a ma- has gotten SOR in rotation on was originally an Anti Abuse jor market by playing big shows over 150 Terrestrial and Internet Campaign for animals that targetaround the country. In turn, get- Radio Stations worldwide. Not to ed the inner city youth of Baltiting the attention that the music mention the hundreds of inter- more, MD. It was created by deserves. Everyone is out there views and printed publications Sande Riesett, a Maryland resijust waiting for their big break. that she has made happen to keep dent and owner of a marketing That's the part of the industry SOR relevant. We wouldn't be firm. Along with amazing phothat hasn't changed. SOR just here without her and social me- tographer and co-worker, Leo Lechooses to make it happen in- dia. bow, SYSS uses the popularity of stead of waiting for someone to <ANTHONY>: It‘s definitely a Rock Stars, Professional Athletes, make it happen. We don't believe critical tool, but like most things Professional Grand Prix Drivers, in waiting for good luck to hap- in life can be used to cause evil. and even Police Officers to pen. We make our own luck.

Social media needs to be used spread their message, "Only a <ANTHONY>: Two words… cautiously or it will definitely bite Punk would hurt a cat or Social Media. He/she who can the hand that feeds it. dog!" They make posters and navigate the sea that is social mebillboards, with these models <CV WorldWide> Has the advent dia can accomplish a lot in this holding and loving an animal business. Lucky for us we have of distribution models like iTunes (some of the animals belong to Jay and Taylor who steer the or others made it harder or easier to the models and some are rescues helm of our ship like Odysseus in sell your music? from the Baltimore Animal Resthe Odyssey; no monster, nor <JOHN>: These days, its one of cue Center-BARCS). Its focus is god, nor demigod can stand in the ONLY ways to sell new mu- to educate by example. There's sic. our way. nothing like seeing a big tough <JAY>: Easier! People were able guy loving on his furry baby! The <CV WorldWide> So, in the end, to download our album the same Campaign was so successful that what is your opinion of social me- day it came out! No delivery, no it went global. We are honored to dia, critical tool or necessary evil? waiting. Boom! It's an excellent be a part of this Campaign and <JAY>: Social media is 100% of tool for musicians and music lov- stand by SYSS 100%. I have the way we got where we are to- ers. spent many an hour defending day. Our Publicist/Manager, the use of the word "Punk" in Taylor Lee Hitaffer, busted her <CV WorldWide> Okay, tell us their message. So let me explain butt to put SOR on the map. about "Show Your Soft Side"...how now what I have many times beWithout her and it, we would did that come about? fore. Here, in Baltimore, the term have to depend on big radio. And <JAY>: Show Your Soft Side "Punk" (not to be mistaken with that is just unaffordable. Taylor ( www.ShowYourSoftSide.com ) "Punk Rocker") is one of the

most derogatory things you can away by the intelligence of this call someone from the inner city. campaign, and contacted Sande I was a Police Officer in Balti- immediately to see how we could more for 5 years and got to see support them! The rest is history! this first hand. SYSS used the I have been with SYSS through 3 wording that mostly impacts their bands and have had my poster on audience. Other Punk and Rock a bus. Last year we helped to Stars in the campaign are Henry raise over $45,000 in one event Rollins (Black Flag, and Rollins (The SYSS PAWject RunwayBand), Tommy Lee (Motley Next one is on May 11, 2015 at Crue), Steve Whiteman (KIX and the Baltimore Arena-Tickets are Funny Money), John Allen on sale now!)!

(Charm City Devils, SR-71, and Childs Play), and Saints of Rebel- <CV WorldWide> any personal lion (we're the only Band in the stories that sparked interest or encampaign!). How it happened? thusiasm, or just a love of animals?

My Mother-In-Law, Kathy Mil- <JAY>: These guys just love aniler, trains dogs and their trainers mals! John has 2 Shepherds, 5 for National Dog Agility Trials cats, and 2 turtles. We have 2 (not the kind where you walk the Porkies, 2 cats, and a 26-year-old mals is a passion. dog in a circle and make them turtle! We figure that it's our jobs look all pretty, but the kind where in life to take care of these little <CV WorldWide> "New Ameriyou teach dogs to do a timed ob- guys. No one should ever harm can Dream" was recorded starting stacle course that you and I them out of malice. If they have in Jan 2014 - what it harder or easwould kill ourselves on). Well, no respect for these little guys ier than you expected? she is a great animal lover, sup- then they truly have no respect <JAY>: It was easier than exporter and educator (not just in for humanity, and in turn should pected. We were well rehearsed the ring but online as well). And be removed from society. and the environment was super one day on the Facebook, I saw <ANTHONY>: For me it was professional. that she had shared a SYSS Post- just my love of animals. There <JOHN>: Tt was pretty painless. er of Henry Rollins. I was blown are no bad animals. Every ani- Most of these songs had a pretty mal on this planet has a specific clear destination point, and it purpose for which it was born to wasn‘t as if we had no idea how do until the day it dies. Even the they would come out. Having ―bad ones‖ have their place in the been a songwriter for MANY hierarchy of animal importance years, I typically have a pretty and we as humans need to re- clear idea for what I think a song spect that. Its funny, but we as a should sound like when its finspecies love to think that we are ished. Sometimes I‘m wrong, but at the top of the food chain, that not often. It‘s kind of like a paintwe are above all other life forms er who can visualize a finished in this world, but take a man/ piece when inception occurs. woman and strip them of their However, when a song surpasses warm clothes and shoes, take the original vision, as a result of away their iPods and smart collaboration or thru the opinions phones, and place them out of of others, that is truly a rewardtheir natural comfort zone. What ing experience. do you get? Dinner for the lesser inhabitants of this planet. <CV WorldWide> How did you <JOHN>: For me, love of ani- guys hook up with Ty Sims in Con-

way (by the way, I used to live in Little Rock) to record the album? <JAY>: Our label had used the Recovery Room on a previous project and the quality was amazing. I wanted that same quality on this album, so we made it happen! <CV WorldWide> You released it in July, it's been out for several months, how does it feel to hold your own musical endeavor in the palm of your hand? <JAY>: It feels amazing! I pop it in at parties, and wait to hear people say, "Who is this???" The many times people have come up performed with and opened for a biggest sense of pride is being and asked him if his hair was re- who's who of rock/metal heavy hitable to say "That's my album!" al. F.Y.I., it is ladies and gentle- ters...what do you take away from <JOHN>: Yes, but it‘s also like a men. No male pattern baldness standing side by side with the likes time capsule for me. It was great in this family. Ha! of Misfits, KIX, Dokken, and the for what it was. A first offering. <JAY>: The looks are odd, yes! others?

To me, its time to move on to the But I don't blame them! It's a tad <JAY>: Performing with those next batch of songs. bit different than your regular run amazing acts has instilled the of the day mohawk. HaHa! But idea that THIS career is a possi<CV WorldWide> We have to ask it's me in a nutshell. As I stated bility. We walked out on stage to Jay if he gets any *cough* odd earlier, I was a cop. I was a cop an audience of their fans, and not looks given the mohawk... :) for over a decade. I ended my ca- only entertained them, but we <ANTHONY>: Is the Pope a reer with Baltimore Police De- impressed them as well. There's Catholic? Does a bear crap in the partment due to an injury. I nothing like coming off stage and woods? I have lost count of how worked my ass off to be a cop talking to the awesome people again, and six years after my Bal- afterwards. Bands that run backtimore career ended, I was back stage and hide are missing out on in the academy again. I spent 5 the best part of this business! years working in the town of La <ANTHONY>: There are two Plata, MD as a Police Officer. possible outcomes when it comes Then all of a sudden that career to meeting your childhood hewas ended by another major roes; they are either just as cool "Line of Duty" injury. This time I and awesome as you had always cut my Lateral Femoral Nerve in dreamed they would be, or they half and had to retire. Well, while are complete head cases that hold I was recuperating from the inju- themselves on self-proclaimed ry I told my wife, "If I make it pedestals. Luckily enough for out of this alive, I'm going to me, they have mostly been really have a mohawk!" I received my down to earth guys who rememretirement letter on Christmas ber what it was like to be in our Eve a year later, and the mohawk shoes. What I take from the exwas born! perience of standing side by side with them is that we deserve to <CV WorldWide> You guys have be on that stage just as much as

and Metal Venue -pPossibly the only one!) while he was on the MotorHead Cruise. After Jerry checked out SOR, he asked if we were interested in doing the show. <ANTHONY>: That is all thanks to our multitalented guitarist John Adams. He was our hookup on that one. <JOHN>: Networking, promoting, making friends, and treating people with respect. <CV WorldWide> South America can be an intimidating place...are you guys at all nervous about playing there? <JOHN>: No, South America has some of the most devoted rock fans on the planet. I‘m looking forward to the experience. <JAY>: No, Taylor and I plan on retiring in Ecuador. The dollar is worth more there and everything is cheaper! We've been researching Suriname and it's a very safe place to visit. <ANTHONY>: Not at all. My only fear is that we don‘t give the people of Suriname the best show of their lives as well as ours so far. I want everyone to have the best night of their lives. <CV WorldWide> After Unkie's, they do and I am not afraid to it‘s 1989 and are a little cocky for any other international dates or say that. my tastes. That is always a let plans? <JOHN>: It‘s always cool to down, I don‘t handle ―rock star‖ <JAY>: We want to do Japan play shows with veterans and attitudes very well… (where Anthony and I have famiwatch what they do. Even ly) and Europe in the near future. though, for most, their 15 <CV WorldWide> Alright, you Hopefully we'll work some magic minutes came and went in a guys are going to headline Junkie’s and make that happen. cloud of lipstick and hairspray 20 O p e n Air Rockfest some years ago, the bands that in...SURINAME?! How does that <CV WorldWide> You've been dewrote truly great songs AND type of opportunity come about? scribed as "here to save rock and know how to treat their fan base <JAY>: John Quincy Adams roll" - is that a big task in today's are quite cool to play shows with. 13th was approached by Jerry music industry?

However, there are quite a few Orie of Paramaribo's - Unker <JOHN>: INDEED! out there that still seem to think Bunker Terras (Suriname's Rock <JAY>: I think so, especially af-

everyone. The bands need to find their originality, promote themselves, stop overplaying their hometowns and venture out into the real world, and make great music. The promoters need to promote and pay their bands.

The venues need to promote and pay their bands. Festivals and Ticket Sales Organizations need to lower their fees, so that we can afford to go to shows again. And the fans/audience members need to get off of YouTube and go see a live show. They're missing the ter the comments made by Gene confine what was happening nat- best part of rock!

Simmons of KISS. Morons like urally through them at that time. <ANTHONY>: Keep writing, him don't realize how much that Please don‘t take this as my way recording, and performing great hurts the little guys who are of putting down those great music. Do not settle for less than struggling everyday to get their bands of previous generations be- what makes you happy as an artfoot in a door...any door. People cause in fact I am trying to do the ist. can believe what they hear, and total opposite. I believe they were Gene has an extremely large, un- geniuses because they knew what <CV WorldWide> Today is the deserved, soapbox that he can not to do with the magic they time of Cyrus, auto-tuned One Distand on and destroy the sanctity possessed as well what to do with rection, Katy Perry (although she of Rock & Roll. The way I feel it. To move a mountain some- does have talent), is rock "on the about it is, Rock & Roll is inside times all one has to do is take a outside looking in"? of each and every one of us. It's step back. <ANTHONY>: I would not say the spirit for the love of letting rock is totally lost in the radio go, cutting loose, and feeling <CV WorldWide> How do you feel waves right now, but it definitely alive. It took the world from the you (or we in general) can bring needs to check its compass. It remissionary position to doggie rock back to the forefront? ally depends on where you live. style, and there's no way that I'm <JAY>: This task will involve Some areas in the United States giving up on doggie style! <ANTHONY>: Big task…yes, but not impossible. I also believe it is a task that one cannot force to happen, it has to come naturally. Just like all of the legendary bands that came before us and helped to pave the way for rock and roll, you cannot force something to happen if it is not meant to happen. In my humble opinion, all those great bands that came before us never really sought out to change the face of rock and roll; there was no plan of action, no map, no schematic; they just didn‘t try to force or

<CV WorldWide> Ok, obviously, break even or better. I don't know Junkie’s in April/May, what else is what we would do with those coming down the pike in 2015 for two!

SoR? <JAY>: We're working hard to <CV WorldWide> Where do you get shows that are going to make see the band in 3-5 years? a difference in our career. So <ANTHONY>: Hopefully playwe've been concentrating on the ing all over the world. I would festival circuit. There are a lot of really love to tour as many other great ones in the US and we want countries as possible. I believe to be on them. The biggest issue this band has a lot to give to the we've run into is that our music is world and cannot wait to do my still very new and despite all the part to do so. stations that have us in rotation, <JAY>: Hopefully the Talent we are still breaking into the Mid Buyers will be calling us, instead Level. That being said, some of of us having to call them! LOL! I and other countries of the world these festivals want $1000 plus would be happy with being a still love rock as much now as (called a "buy on") to play a side known act that does 3-4 tours a America did in the past couple of stage at noon. That can lead to a year around the festival circuit decades. Plus, rock music chang- great spot next year, but coming es shape with each decade it en- up with $20,000 to play 20 festi- <CV WorldWide> Any final words dures. Each generation wants to vals is basically impossible. Yes, you would like to convey to our shape and mold their daddy‘s we've thought of doing a Kick- readers here or your fans? rock music into something of Starter and such, but none of us <JOHN>: Be true to yourself. their own. It‘s just the natural or- feel right asking for a handout to Never give up, never relent, and never surrender. der of things to come. do what we love doing. Not to <JAY>: No. Pop Music feeds mention, that we still have to pay <JAY>: I'd like to take this optheir specific genre, just like met- for all the costs associated with portunity to thank the readers for al does. I like Katy Perry and the getting there. Touring can be a taking the time to get to know us! message that she tries to fill her money pit. So, with the help of We would love to meet you at a music with, plus I love to dance. our booking agents, Brad show sometime. You can always You can't dance to metal very Krempel and Taylor Lee Hitaffer, find us at our merchandise booth well! When it comes to music, to we strategically plan our tours to with Taylor after a performance. each his own. We don't feel that work financially so that we can Please come by and say Hi! As for our fans, you know we love everyone is going to like our you guys! Thank you for the endtunes. We just hope that you get less support over the past year out and celebrate what you do and a half. We wouldn't be where like and in turn support the live we are with out you. I can't wait music scene. to hug you all again on tour!! <JOHN>: Yes, but one of the <ANTHONY>: I would like to reasons I gravitated to metal (real thank all of our fans that have metal, not the hair band crap) been supporting us this past year. was the outsider quality it posWe are nothing without you and sessed. I was NEVER one of the we know it. We promise to keep ―cool kids‖. I still am not today. I doing our best so please keep ALWAYS marched to the beat of having faith in us. We want to my own drum. Still do, for better make you as proud of us as we or worse. I tend to prefer things are of you. that are not spoon fed to me or created for the sheep.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SAINTS OF REBELLION Recruits Former JETBOY and THE BEAUTIFULLY DEMOLISHED Singer as New Band Frontman Saints of Rebellion is thrilled to announce the signing of D.K. Revelle as the band's newest frontman. Revelle will be replacing former Saints of Rebellion vocalist, Coby DeShazo, who is on indefinite hiatus due to health issues.

"We are disappointed that Coby will not be able to continue with Saints of Rebellion," says bassist Jay Hitaffer. "Knowing he was leaving forced the band into action, and we immediately began the search for his replacement."

After conducting several try-outs, the decision was finalized after a three-day audition process in the band's hometown of Baltimore, MD. "D.K. is an excellent frontman! When we began to jam together, it was evident that he would be a good fit for SOR. He brings the talent and energy that our fans have come to expect, but more importantly, he brings a new level of professionalism to the table. We are very excited about the possibilities with this new line up!"

Revelle bring with him expansive knowledge of the rock music scene, having spent years touring all over the globe through various projects. Most recently, Revelle fronted the Los Angeles based hard-rock band The Beautifully Demolished (2011-2014), recording a self-titled album that is distributed through Demon Doll Records. Prior to that, Revelle fronted veteran glamrock band Jetboy during their European tour in 2010. He has since been seen at such high-profile music events such as Maryland's M-3 Festival (2011).

D.K. Revelle will be joining Saints of Rebellion on stage officially for the third annual Mid-Atlantic Rock Review Rocks MDA benefit at Hard Times Cafe & Cue this April.

Gear the Pros Use! When it comes to gear, in my own opinion, there are two types of musicians: the ones who buy specific gear because they want the sound it comes with, and the musicians who get their gear and modifies it to create the sound they want. I've always been the second type. I am endorsed by Spector Bass and have an artist endorsement for Markbass through Guitar Center. So I basically picked out my gear without playing it first...and the combination was exceptional!

I have loved the look and sound of Spector Basses since the early 80's! They were the sports cars of the bass guitar world. My bass instructor, Jeff Reid (of SR-71) played one, and I got to fiddle around with it at lessons. I was so ecstatic when I finally got my Spector Endorsement!

Bass Guitars: I have 2 Spector Legend 4X, and a Spector Rex4 (Rex Brown from Pantera's model). The 2 4X's are set up to be in drop C tuning, and the Rex4 is in Standard. To carry the tremendous low end that Drop C deserves, I run through a MarkBass SD-1200 (1200 watts), a 104R (Markbass' rear ported 4x10), and 151R (Markbass' rear ported 1x15).

The sound of the Spector Bass through the Markbass gear was great for playing big venues with PA's that had subs. I got a lot of compliments!

But when we played smaller venues with no subs, I noticed that the low end lacked. When I turned up the lows on the amp, I found myself messing with it too much between songs looking for the right tone. My father-in-law, Bill Craig (of The Raz, The Nightmen, Jr. Cline and the Recliners) saw the trouble I was having, and he got me the BBE Sonic Maximizer Pedal for Christmas. When that Sonic Maximizer pedal was added to my rig, it finally became the monster I wanted all my career! Round, full, monstrous lows partnered with clear, rich, awesome mids/highs. Perfect for bass chords, and transitioning into some slap without having to change your settings. And best of all, I no longer had a need for a subwoofer in the PA! To complete my bass rig, I use the Line 6 G90 Digital Wireless System. I've tried pretty much all the wireless systems, and think this one is amazing. There's no way I'm gonna be tethered by a chord!

I'm endorsed by Clayton Custom Picks and use a 1mm Derlin Pick.

My Keyboard rig consists of a Korg Triton LE, Kurtzweil SP76 (weighted keys), and a Roland PK5a Midi Footpedal Controller. Been using Korg for over 20 years now. Love em! The Getty Lee-Roland Foot pedal was recently added for Saints of Rebellion. That way I could play the keys with my feet while I'm playing the bass. It really completes our sound and fills our bottom end perfectly.

Vocally I use a TC Helicon Vocal pedal. I use the Octave setting that gives me a low octave and a high octave to fill the back up vocals real nicely. By it's self it sounds like I'm singing with Barry White and a munchkin from OZ, but add the music and it fills perfectly without having to cheat with an auto tuner.

Gear the Pros Use! Kit: Yamaha Power V I play a 5 piece Yamaha Power V drum kit. I have been playing on a Yamaha since I first started to learn to drum back in my high school days. Yamaha’s high quality designs and rich, full sound has kept me loyal to the company ever since. I have tried playing on other kits, and as a touring drummer you never know whose drum kit you are going to be using each night (depending on venue and tour); but no matter what type of kit I play, I always love the feel and sound of my Yamaha Power V. However, I must stress that as a touring drummer or a drummer in general, you must be able to play any drum kit that is thrown your way. Remember, the drum kit only has the potential to make sound and music; it is you the drummer who has to turn its potential into something substantial.

Toms: 12x11‖ 13x12‖ 16x17‖

I like to have multiple sized toms on my drum kit not only to create different sounds when I play, but to also allow me to create a different physical feeling for each of the songs as I play them. Let me explain. When I create a drum roll or any measure of a song that we have written, I not only create it so that it sounds good with the guitar, bass guitar, and vocals, but I also create it so that it feels fun to play. This is how you get those certain songs that are just fun as hell to play live in concert. To me, the ability to feel a song as you play

Kick: 22x18‖

I use a 22 inch kick drum because I feel it creates a low enough tone required for our style of music while leaving enough space below its tone for my brother Jay to occupy. In our rhythm section, Jay is the lowest tone.

Snare: 14x7.5‖ Pearl Masters Series SST

I like this snare a lot because it has a really mean attack (like a machine gun) and a great sounding tone that really cuts the intervals of each rhythm very sharply.

Cymbals: 14‖ Zildjian New Beat A-Series High Hats 21‖ Zildjian A-Series Mega Bell Ride 16‖ Oriental China ―Trash‖ 16‖ Zildjian Z3 Rock Crash 16‖ Zildjian A-Series Rock Crash 8‖ Zildjian A-Series Splash

I use all Zildjian cymbals because honestly, they are all I have ever known The quality of Zildjian cymbals always astounds me every time I play them. Not to mention the enormous selection of different types and series of cymbals they provide is amazing. When it comes to set up, I always want a multitude of different sounding cymbals to allow me to play with the dynamics of each song. In my opinion, a heavier sounding cymbal strike here and a medium sounding cymbal strike there can really change the dynamics of a song beyond simply

Pedal: Tama Speed Cobra – This is a super nice kick pedal by Tama that really tries its hardest to assist your footwork in any way possible. From adjustable spring loaded footboards to completely adjustable beaters, this kick pedal is the most technologically advanced pedal I have ever worked with.

Throne: Rock-N-Soc – Soft, durable, and comfortable; a great seat to have and the best seat in the house baby.

PureSin @ NAMM

NAMM JAM Featuring Steel Panther Hardcore Superstars Otherwise Nick Colionne Kathleen Clarkson Devle Texas presents NAMM JAM 2015 again at the alluring Grove in Anaheim, CA. This year‟s lineup was one to satisfy many different palates. Nick Colionne started it off in perfect Adrian Patrick- lead vocals; Ryan Patrick - guitar; debonair style, wearing a red suit, complementary Corky Gainsford - drums; Andrew Pugh - guitar; red shoes and a white fedora with a black band.

Tony Carboney – bass, they played an eight song Nick was playing a gorgeous Epiphone ES-175, set, giving it everything they had. They started the and great at engaging the crowd. During his song set off with „Love and War‟ with the lead singer „I‟m Super Bad” a younger long haired rocked putting it all out and the simplest way to put it is guy was completely getting into it, hair was flying that he has a true voice. They continued the set and an older African American gentleman next to with „Fate Is Your Enemy‟, „Meet Me in the him turned looked at with him with a bit of a sur- Dark‟, „Full Circle‟, and one of the big hits prised look on his face then he started getting into „Darker Side of the Moon‟. By this time the the music too. It was awesome to see a distinctive crowd was in full motion rocking out with the older man and a long hair rocker guy grooving band. The audience kept this going as the band together. Nick Colionne came out into the audiplayed „Soldiers‟, a tribute to the Armed Forces. ence singing „What About You‟, getting anyone They ended their set with „Coming for the and everyone to start grooving with a groove train Throne‟. Having seen Otherwise several times begoing through the audience. It seemed everyone fore I have to say this was the best set I have seen had a little soul in them, even the hardest metal them play, full of energy and completely electric. heads; feet were tapping, heads were nodding and Hardcore Superstar, from Sweden, played a fingers were snapping - all were having a great set of 6 songs consisting of „Moonshine‟, time. „Dreamin' in a Casket‟, „Above the Law‟, „Run to Jose Mangin from Sirius Radio introduced Your Mama‟, „Last Call for Alcohol‟, „We Don't Otherwise. Otherwise, from Las Vegas, NV, are Celebrate Sundays‟. The lead singer Jocke Bege was all over the stage hardly staying still at all. This was the first time they have been in the US in 10 years; it was a great treat for all who attended NAMM JAM. Jonny Coffin‟s fashion show had his beautiful models this year showcasing Afflictions tshirts. There were several different style and looks from punk rock, rock chic, to elegant classic look. These girls all wore the Afflictions shirts well with the right amount of sex appeal. The last two girls put on a bit of a dominatrix teaser to stir up the crowd. The entire fashion show was chore-

PureSin @ NAMM

ographed well and done nicely. hanging off his belt, and some serious kick ass Steel Panther was quite the hit. I have never black cowboy boots. His guitar covered his shirt seen them before so I was not sure what exactly to so I was unable to read the entire quote I could expect. I was certainly in for a surprise. Lexi only get “Big Guns Big” but we can all assume Foxx was by far my favorite, having a backthe rest. He played a blue panther printed Kramer ground as a makeup artist. I loved it when he guitar. They only played 9 songs but they filled up pulled out his pink hand held vanity mirror bedaz- the rest of the time with some crazy antics. The zled with his name and applying iridescent pink first song of the set was „Pussywhipped‟ oddly gloss. He was wearing pink panther print spandex enough many of the women in the audience even that matched his pink Kramer bass and a leather knew the lyrics to this obviously classic hit. In bevest that had his last name on them, and on the tween each song a lot of joking teasing and audiback of the vest was an image of a mirror hair and ence participation occurred. The drummer Zadinia spray bottle with a heart around it. To the side of would occasionally place the drumsticks in his the stage he had a stand up professional traveling mouth as if he was a walrus. They continued with makeup kit that he would go to check himself out „Party Like Tomorrow is the End of the World‟, and fix his hair spraying it with what I‟m certain and brought out Marty Friedman for „Asian was Aqua Net hair spray. The lead singer MiHooker‟. About this time they brought up some chael Starr was all glammed out in black spandex lady that was a little lit, stumbling around on with panther print inlays, a leather vest, and a stage taking off her shirt. She sat up there while pink scarf wrapped around his forehead. Satchel they played „Just like Tiger Woods‟. The hit of the guitar player has the biggest hair on a guy I the night was „I Love it Loud‟ with Tommy think I have ever seen. He was in all black with Thayer, he continued to play with them to „Gang tight leather pants, a blue zebra printed scarf Bang at the Old Folks Home‟. They kept up with

PureSin @ NAMM

girls in the audience included in their jokes, and everyone seemingly enjoying the show. They finished their set „Community Property‟, „If I Was the King‟, „Gloryhole‟, and „Death to All But Metal‟. So as everyone has told me, and as I am telling you, you have to see Steel Panther, at least once just for the entertainment value or to at least say you have seen them.

NAMM JAM 2015 was a great line up, yet again. I look forward to seeing what Delve Texas has in store for us for future years. They bring in quality entertainment, quality bands and at a venue that is of class and eloquence. Be certain to plan on attending next year‟s NAMM JAM as I‟m sure it will be a spectacular event as well.

PureSin @ NAMM

PureSin @ NAMM

minutes later presenting the child with a guitar signed by all the members of Metal Allegiance, since the child spoke Spanish us non Spanish speaking people had no clue what they were saying but, his smile said it all.

Metal Allegiance was a showcase of star studded super heroes; Scott Ian started the set off with playing the guitar with Mastodon‟s Bass/ Vocals player Troy Sanders, Anthrax members Bass Player Frankie Bello and Drummer Charlie Benante playing „March of The SOD/SGT D & The SOD‟. The song was the first of a 27 song Metal Allegiance setlist, the beginning of some hardcore thrashing and hardcore people being thrown around all enHouse Of Blues Kathleen Clarkson joying every minute of it. The setlist included „Freddy Krueger‟, „Rapid Fire‟, „Victim of The House of Blues in Anaheim, CA host- Change‟, „Fast As A Shark‟, „Balls to The Wall‟, ed this year‟s Metal Allegiance with Scott Ian as „Into The Void‟, and „Heaven And Hell‟. The rethe Master of Ceremonies, and what a master he maining all stars of Metal Allegiance were Mark was. Scott started the show with a bit of his own Osegueda Death Angel, Andreas Kisser Sepultu“I‟m The Man” stories. He has a very unique way ra, Rex Brown Kill Devil Hill/Pantera, Gary Holt of telling his stories, engaging the audience, and Exodus/Slayer, John Tempesta The Cult, Chris getting a good laugh out of everyone. He is obvi- Broderick Megadeth, Chuck Billy Testament, Daously an intelligent man with a witty sense of hu- vid Ellefson Megadeth, Mike Portnoy Winery Dogs/Dream Theater, Alex Skolnick Testament, mor. A hardcore metal head showing he has a different side, a normal everyday run of the mill Steve Souza Exodus, Jimmy Bain Rainbow/Dio, and Kyle Sanders Hell Yeah. Brothers Troy Sandman, which can entertain us all.

Jose Mangin from Sirius Radio co-hosted ers and Kyle Sanders played together in „Running the show giving introduction and humbly setting with the Devil‟, „You Really Got Me‟ and the tone of the show. In the beginning of the show „Atomic Punk‟. Alex Skolnick did an amazing he asked how many kids were in the audience and rendition of „Eruption‟ with David Ellefson and the age of the youngest, which was about 8 years Mike Portnoy which lit the HOB up. The last 3 old. Jose left the stage and then came back a few songs “Cold Gin‟, „Love It Loud‟ and „Highway

PureSin @ NAMM

To Hell‟ were performed by everyone who performed that night, it certainly was a spectacular sight for all serious metal head.

The stage was set up with 3 drum sets and at one point was Tom Hunting Exodus drummer, John Tempesta The Cult, Charlie Benante, all

playing together, now that was a serious head banging, with a heart pounding sensation. Metal Allegiance is an annual event, but you don‟t have to go to NAMM to enjoy the great experience of it, just go to Metal Allegiance that is enough to soothe the soul of all serious musicians.

Order in the Chaos Helpful Band Tip #6 - Clean Up Your Pedalboard Late 80's - Boss DS-1 Distortion, (Mesa/Boogie Triaxis System inBoss GE-7 EQ, Dunlop Crybaby to a Mesa 2:90 Stereo Power Amp into matching Carvin 4x12 Wah, Radio Shack Reverb Cabinets loaded with Celestion (Marshall Mkll 100watt into a Sunn 4x12 with Fender Speakers) G12T-75 speakers - Where I first Early 90's- Boss OD-1 Overdrive, fell in love with them and have used them ever since) MXR Flanger, Boss GE-7 EQ, Dunlop Crybaby Wah (Marshall Present - TC Electronic PolyJCM800 100watt Head into a tune, Boss OD-2 Overdrive, Boss Sunn 4x12 with Fender Speakers) CS-3 Compressor, Dunlop Zakk Mid 90's - Digitech GFX7, Alesis Wylde Wah, Boss BF-2 Flanger, Almost without MidiVerb4, Morley PWV Wah/ Boss PH-2 Phaser, Ernie Ball fail..somebody approaches me Volume Pedal, MXR Carbon Volume (Footswitched with after a show and comments on ADA Ultrafoot, Digitech Power Copy Delay, MXR ZW-38 Stereo my pedal board. And, I must ad- Stereo Amp into Marshall 4x12 Chorus (Into twin highly modimit, I am flattered... it serves me cabinet) fied Marshall JCM2000 DSL100 well. And no Viagra needed.

Late 90's - Boss OD-2 Overdrive, heads that are switched simultaThrough the years as a gui- Boss CH-2 Chorus, Boss BF-2 neously via a custom head tarist in quite a select few bands Flanger, Morley Wah-SP (Mesa/ switcher I had built. The cabs are (because I tend to stick with them Boogie Quad Pre-amp, Mesa/ either matching Marshall 1960 to see what might happen -- and Boogie Simul-Class 295 Stereo 4x12 Cabs or 1936 2x12 Cabs deam excruciatingly particular on Power Amp into twin Mesa Half- pending on venue. All speakers whom I will bleed with), my rig back 4x12 cabs loaded 2- EV x 2- are Celestion G12T-75) has gone through many emana- Celestion speakers in each) As you can see, over time tions. Most notably has been my Early 2000's - Boss OD-2 Over- my pedalboard got a little more pursuit of streamlined efficiency drive, Boss CH-2 Chorus, Boss sophisticated and demanding of of my floor pedals, effects, power outlets (laughs). But that is BF-2 Flanger, Morley Wah-SP switching, etc.

Here are just a few setups I have used up until now: Early 80's - Holmes Overdrive, Aria Chorus, Aria Compressor, D'Armand Wah-Wah, Radio Shack Reverb (Lab Series L-5 4x10 Combo) Mid 80's - Boss DS-1 Distortion, Boss GE-7 EQ, Aria Chorus, Aria Compressor, Dunlop Crybaby Wah (Roland Jazz Chorus 120)

easily remedied with the usage of variable volume setting on that er, not against YOU. Doing this a Dunlop Powerblock or a Voo- pedal. will not only clean up your signal doo Labs Pedal Power 2. When A way you can defeat path a bit, will also improve your running 8 powered pedals on some of the problem is to not TONE, trust me. Not to mention your pedalboard like I do, you make them fight each other and that you will sound more PRO at need to knock all that power "tune" them to each other. How your next gig by not freaking out down to one supply, not only for do you do that? Easy and simple, the soundman by your line level saving wall outlets, but reducing even a guitarist can do it... spiking +16 Db when you turn line noise too - because the elecEach pedal that gets turned on your Chorus. tricity coursing through your on in your chain that has a volAnother signal loss prevenpedalboard causes noise in your ume knob decreases or increases tion is to ditch all those .99 cables signal path. Sadly. your signal exponentially...and in between those pedals. I always Some players prefer to use that ain't good, right? Ahhh...but use Monster ROCK series patch batteries only. And if you don't it is - because it allows you to cables as short as I can get away mind taking your pedalboard "tune" your pedals to each other. with. Every extra inch in that sigapart every other night to replace Plug in your guitar, turn nal chain leeches just a little bit batteries, cool. But, batteries also all pedals off, and turn on your more tone and signal, so shorter do not supply a steady stream of amp. Make sure the volume on is always better. electricity to your pedals, yet, in a the guitar is at ZERO. Then go to So, now that you gone case of not having access to pow- the very first pedal and turn it on. through the article above, and er outlets...batteries would defiDid you hear a hiss that is painstakingly worked out your nitely come in handy...but, I now louder than before? That is pedalboard issues...sit back, jam don't know for what, because because the volume knob on a little, and give me a slight nod your amp shouldn't work then THAT pedal is louder than your for helping you clean up your either. line level...turn it down a bit, turn tone, your sound, and your Kidding aside, another off the pedal and see if the level PEDALBOARD! problem with using so many ped- went down, if so repeat the proals is signal loss when switching cedure until you no longer notice pedals on or off. Naturally, a discernable difference of volwhenever you interrupt a natural ume. Then move on to the next flow-through of a signal, you will pedal and repeat. If the volume inevitably get a loss. But what I'm goes DOWN when you turn a going to mention to you is anoth- pedal on, you need to RAISE the er type of loss...that of volume on that pedal. Common "conflicting intent on a pedal" sense, I know. The key is to make level. the on volume match the off volThat's right... you notice ume, unless the pedal is used for those knobs on all those pedals? a solo boost. Then, set it reasonaWell, some of them color your bly louder than your line levsignal, add saturation to an effect, el...usually +6 DB. modulation, pitch, curve, etc. in You want your pedals to regards to the specific pedal the work in harmony with each othknobs are on. But there is most Brien DeChristopher is the guitarist and primary songwriter often one knob that is present infor Seattle Seale-based hard rock band "Agents Of Chaos". He has discriminately on most of your pedals...VOLUME. Guess what? logged countless hours on stage in live performance, and studio recording time.

Yep, it is a volume of your ENYou can see this and other Pearls of Wisdom at http:// TIRE signal path from the guitar all the way up to the point of the www.blogster.com/briendechristopher/

4 Insane Things Nobody Tells You About Riding a Motorcycle (pt 2)

By Robert Brockway

at best you're going to get some impolite stares; at worst, you're going to get a news piece with the headline "Police Fell Local Knight with Bear Mace, Mocking Laughter."

But you walk in there in motorcycle gear and, depending on how much the other customers want to piss off their father, you're either a responsible comis, by definition, insanely duramuter or a naughty rebellion just #2. Wearing Protective Gear ble. Jackets, pants, bags and waiting for a sexy coup.

I'd always heard that rid- damn near every other type of I have no idea why I didn't ing gear consisted of a leather clothing is made out of the tough- know this -- why every motorcyjacket, jeans and a helmet. And I est fabrics on the planet: Kevlar, cle rider wasn't constantly daring didn't question it, because damn Cordura, ballistic nylon -- this is me to hit them (seriously, hit me, near every motorcycle rider I saw shit that, when layered properly, guys, it's awesome!) and laughing was wearing a leather jacket, stops bullets and knives. That's as my blows rain off of their heljeans and a helmet. Go figure. not to mention the thick, padded mets. I have no idea why zombie Sure, the occasional sport-bike gauntlets with carbon fiber movies even exist anymore, berider would speed by in an elabo- knuckles meant to withstand cause they sell full suits of biterate strappy number with jagged crashes at highway speeds and proof armor in your local auto stripes, brand names and patches impenetrable leather boots with parts store. The drama would everywhere, but I thought it was oil-resistant non-slip soles. And probably be somewhat diminmostly a style thing. Hey, some beyond all that, there are pads, ished if every episode of ―The dudes wear Tapout shirts on pur- inserts and plates hidden all Walking Dead‖ was just a smugpose; there's just no accounting throughout the fabric to protect ly grinning Rick wading unfor taste. Then, doing the re- your major joints and body parts. harmed through the undead search, I learned that you're sup- For the more nerdily inclined horde. posed to have actual riding gear among you, you're probably alEven though a lot of riding designed for that purpose. ready getting it: It's not "safety gear is designed to resemble ordiAnd I can tell you gear," it's f**king armor. nary clothing as much as possifirsthand that it is all just as unRiding gear is a full suit of ble, you're still leaving the house comfortable, constricting and armor that is socially acceptable with hardened knuckles, slipawkward-looking as you'd ex- to wear in public. You walk into resistant boots, knife-proof fabric pect. And that it's also totally ba- a Starbucks wearing your period and impact pads. That's like, half dass. Motorcycle protective gear authentic replica half-plate, and a super power.

So, while you LOOK like this: #1. It's Like Riding a Bicycle ... You also control the throttle with So, you FEEL like this: your hand instead of foot, and That Hates You have not one but two brakes -- spiel, and sprinting full bore One of the first things the using either of which at the through a psych ward full of murinstructor at the Motorcycle Safe- wrong time will hurl you off the derers. ty Foundation course said to us bike like a meat trebuchet.

The clutch is going to be In short: It's awesome. was "It's a lot like riding a bicyfamiliar to you if you've driven a cle."

And she was right; she just stick shift before, true, but now You should get a bike right you have to do it backward, and didn't finish the sentence. now, and a full set of armor that's I'm sure what she meant to upside down. You'll get the con- like blood red, and you can start cept, but the motions are just forsay was "It's a lot like riding a bizipping around like those forest eign enough to require an all-new cycle ... off a cliff." speeder things from Jedi and learning curve. Oh, and you have you'll be like "WHOOOAAAA" The basic principle is the to practice in live traffic -- traffic same, sure, but if you've ridden a which, again, has admitted to try- and your bike will be like bicycle and are therefore count- ing to murder you in the name of "VROOOOOO-" ing on already possessing the skill ill-informed justice. The end reset needed to ride a motorcycle, sult is you attempting to master Robert Brockway you are in for a terrifying, bloody an only half-familiar skill (that is, disappointment. Some of the very if you've actually driven stick bebasic maneuvers will feel familiar fore. If you haven't, it's a totally -- most of the time you steer, take unfamiliar skill to you and oh, off and stop using the same mo- God, what are you doing?! That's tions -- but there's so much more. first gear; go up, no -- up, man, For instance, for reasons that are brake! Shit! Tree!) with an entireentirely beyond me, motorcycles ly different layout, and all while have the clutch on the handlebar careening down the road at and the gear shifter at your foot, speeds that made your greatforcing me to assume that Bill grandfather's monocle pop out in Motorcycle, the inventor of the astonishment. motorcycle, was either medically So yeah, sure, it's just like dyslexic or some sort of drunken riding a bicycle ... while playing acrobat who exclusively rode Moonlight Sonata, on a glockenbikes while doing headstands.