2016 February

FEBRUARY 2016 THE MAGAZINE FOR MUSIC ENTHUSIASTS AND CUSTOM LIFESTYLES

ALWAYS FREEFEB-

In today's ever advancing technological society, few things hold peoples interest for too long. Fortunately, great hard rock music has withstood the test of time. Take a heaping teaspoon of originality, sprinkled with an unrivaled live performance, and we give you “AS YOU WERE!” With a smooth blend of classic, modern, metal, and groove, topped off with the occasional ballad AS YOU WERE creates a surefire hit with a style all their own. Don't be fooled by their young faces. Individually, As You Were are music professionals who take the utmost pride in their craft. While spanning several years of individual hard work, with a relentless team effort that strives only for perfection.

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Contents...

David Bowie Memorial:

3

2016 She Rocks Awards: NAMM 2016

6

NAMM JAM 2016 Review:

20

Music Industry Hits High Notes at The 2016 NAMM Show:

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Jamie Paullus Jamie Paullus continues to WOW our readers with the BEST Spokane has to offer - this month: music greats SAVING ABEL. Page 28

Order In The Chaos: Differences in Perspective HAIR TRIGGER: a Comic from Anthony Hitaffer

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Sherry Keith Mystic Photography continues her up close and personal view into the music scene with NAMMJAM 2016...

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DAVID BOWIE 1/8/1947 — 1/10/2016 The world mourns the loss of a legend.

Davie Bowie Oddity Personified

If anyone in the history of music ever mastered the art of catching and keeping people's attention, It was without question the refreshingly unpredictable David Bowie. One of the ever present perils of the music business, is the fickle nature of it's fan base. Whatever is the hottest selling trend today could be totally forgotten by next week. David Bowie avoided this pitfall of the music business with a brilliance rarely seen. While some acts fall by the wayside due to changing tastes and others fall into the career suicide of conforming to whatever the current trend is , Bowie would reinvent his persona and his music in completely unforeseeable ways. This not only kept him relevant, but also held peoples attention for well over 40 years.

Sometimes the word “genius” is too commonly thrown around and associated with people who likely haven't quite earned a title of that distinction. However, David Bowie displayed such brilliance in so many different areas, that's it's difficult to not declare him a genius and without any reservation.

Most commonly thought of as a singer, Bowie was also an extremely gifted musician on multiple instruments, a talented painter, performance artist, actor of both film and live theater as well as television and since the mid seventies has successfully acted as his own business manager. Not an easy accomplishment by any stretch in a business as brutal as the entertainment industry.

Talent and success aside, it's often the case that those things can be overshadowed in some instances by how well or how poorly one lives their life. Early in life, David Bowie had many stumbles after several failed romances and severe drug addiction. It still can be said though that most would not have come out as well as Bowie did. Especially considering that almost every highlight in his early career was simultaneously marred by some awful tragedy like the untimely death of his father. Despite all that, Bowie went on to beat drug addiction, save his own career from financial ruin and go on to be a dedicated father and a dear friend to many with a enduring charm and sense of humor sometimes rarely seen in entertainment.

David Bowie not only taught us how to live life, but how to gracefully see it to it's end. On January tenth 2016, Bowie passed away after battling cancer. Many friends including some who considered themselves very close to the brilliant entertainer, had no idea he was even ill. He left us with a final music video but more surprisingly, a heartwarming photo-shoot of a man that looks just as alive as he was in the days of Ziggy Stardust.

David Bowie was one of my heroes. His early days of Shock/Glam Rock, opened doors for not only my own humble music career, but others that came shortly after Bowie like Kiss, T Rex, The New York Dolls, Sweet and more. From Ziggy Stardust, Aladdin Sane, The Thin White Duke or The Goblin King, David Bowie could be and was different things to many different people. An ever evolving master of his own destiny, he found the right way to do things all the way to the end. Although his passing has saddened millions, he found a way to make it easier for us to look at all he left us and be joyful. Indeed to look at his final photos of him gleefully smiling as if to rejoice in a life well done, It's hard to not smile back and simply say “Thank you David.”

Timm Tantrum

2016 She Rocks Awards Honor Women in Music During NAMM Show Awards featured performances by guitarists Nita Strauss and Jennifer Batten; chart-topping pop duo Karmin; Raining Jane; The Command Sisters; and more.

From left (top row): Rock Sugah guitarist, Kat Dyson; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Karmin singer, Amy Heidemann; guitarist, Malina Moye; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and guitarist, Jennifer Batten; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Seymour Duncan co-founder/CEO, Cathy Carter Duncan; She Rocks Awards Founder and CoHost, Laura B. Whitmore; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Director of Brand Communications at Taylor Guitars, Chalise Zolezzi; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and NAMM Director of Public Affairs/NAMM Foundation Executive Director, Mary Luehrsen; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Director of Music Recording and Scoring at Skywalker Sound, Leslie Ann Jones; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Senior Vice President of Public Relations for Universal Music Enterprises, Sujata Murthy; Rock Sugah singer, Kudisan Kai; 2016 She Rocks Awards Winner and President/Co-Founder of Gator Cases, Crystal Morris; Rock Sugah drummer, Benita Lewis; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Fanny's House of Music Co-Owner, Leigh Maples; keyboardist, Jenna Paone; Charlotte and Sarah Command of The Command Sisters; (bottom row) Rock Sugah keyboardist, Lynette Williams; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and Tom Tom Magazine Founder, Mindy Abovitz; Rock Sugah bassist, Divinity Roxx; 2016 She Rocks Awards winner and legendary singer, Chaka Khan; 2016 She Rocks Awards Co-Host and guitarist, Nita Strauss; and 2016 She Rocks Awards winners and Rock N' Roll Camp for Girls Founder, Mona Tavakoli and Becky Gebhardt; attend the She Rocks Awards during NAMM at the Anaheim Hilton on January 22, 2016 in Anaheim, California.

(Photo by Kevin Graft)

January 28, 2016, Anaheim, Calif. — A who's who of music industry execs, celebrities, luminaries and supporters of women in music gathered on Fri., Jan. 22 in the Anaheim Hilton hotel’s Pacific Ballroom to celebrate the 2016 She Rocks Awards, an event paying tribute to women who display leadership and stand out within the music industry.

The She Rocks Awards were held by parent organization the Women's International Music Network (the WiMN), and were co-hosted by WiMN Founder Laura B. Whitmore and guitarist Nita Strauss.

Honorees included Jennifer Batten, Chaka Khan, Amy Heidemann, Becky Gebhardt and Mona Tavakoli (Rock Camp for Girls L.A. and Raining Jane), Chalise Zolezzi (Taylor Guitars), Mary Luehrsen (NAMM), Crystal Morris (Gator Cases), Mindy Abovitz (Tom Tom Magazine), Cathy Carter Duncan (Seymour Duncan), Leigh Maples and Pamela Cole (Fanny’s House of Music), Leslie Ann Jones (Skywalker Sound), Sujata Murthy (Universal Music), and surprise honoree Tom Gilbert, the Creative and Marketing Manager for Mad Sun Marketing and co-producer of the She Rocks Awards.

"Wow!! What an evening of special moments. I am blown away by the amazing support from the industry and from NAMM. I know this evening was inspirational for many people in the industry, and am so proud of my team for helping create this very special event," said Laura B. Whitmore, founder of the Women's International Music Network and co-host for the evening.

The event featured electrifying performances by singer-songwriter, Jenna Paone; guitarists Nita Strauss, Malina Moye, and Jennifer Batten; Jason Mraz touring band, Raining Jane; pop sensations, Karmin; The Command Sisters; and the incredible house band Rock Sugah featuring Divinity Roxx on bass, Kudison Kai on vocals,

Kat Dyson on guitar, Benita Lewis on drums and Lynette Williams on keys.

Highlights of the event include a stellar performance by Karmin of songs from their upcoming release, Leo Rising; killer guitar acts by Jennifer Batten, Nita Strauss and Malina Moye (a 2014 She Rocks Award winner); a rousing speech by percussionist Mona Tavakoli of Raining Jane and the Rock N' Roll Camp for Girls of L.A.; and a grand finale closing performance by The Command Sisters, Jennifer Batten, Nita Strauss and Rock Sugah as they joined together in a tribute to Chaka Khan ending with power anthem, "I'm Every Woman," that got the crowd of 700 attendees on their feet and dancing.

The 2016 She Rocks Awards were sponsored by Martin Guitar, Seymour Duncan, Roland, Boss, Gretsch, Avid, Taylor Guitars, Zildjian, Guitar Center, D'Addario, Fishman, Berklee College of Music, Tech 21, PRS Guitars, 108 Rock Star Guitars, Korg USA, Volume & Tone, Casio, Ear Trumpet Labs, Merch Cat, John Page Classic Guitars, West Coast Pedalboards, and Recording King, with additional support from these media partners: Tom Tom Magazine, Guitar Girl Magazine, Music-News.com, Guitar World, Guitar Player, Keyboard, Bass Player, Electronic Musician, Music Inc., Making Music, International Musician, Premier Guitar, LAWIM, Rock N Roll Industries, and more.

For more information, visit: www.thewimn.com About The Women’s International Music Network (The WiMN) Founded in 2012, the Women’s International Music Network unites women who work within all facets of the music and audio industries.

With theWiMN.com as its hub, the WiMN provides a community for women within the industry while enriching their careers and musical experiences through networking, education and sharing. The Women’s International Music Network produces events such as the Women's Mu-

sic Summit, the WiMN She Rocks Showcases, and the She Rocks Awards. The organization hosts panels, workshops and education sessions and is founded by music industry veteran Laura B. Whitmore. For more information, visit www.thewimn.com.

<CV> Let's start off with introducing the band and their roles <A.J> Jeff Zazueta- Lead Vocals Steven Snider- Lead Guitar Benji Zamora- Rhythm Guitar AJ Horton- Drums <CV> I understand you all are from California, is that correct? <AJ> Yes we are! <CV> Tell us how you came up with the name for the band?

AJ: I began playing drums at the age of 8 when I walked into a pawn shop with my dad and saw a shiny blue drum set. I sat down and started playing and was instantly hooked; not to say that I was any good yet ha ha. I’ve been playing in bands for about 10 years now. I play around with guitar, although I don't really know what I’m doing. But I do write some of As You Were’s songs just by messing around on guitar, bringing it to Steven, and letting him turn it into something playable. I am also a Graphic Designer, and I design all of our album art, merch, band logo, and mostly run our social media.

<AJ> We used to be called Relic. After a few band member changes, our style evolved into the Hard Rock sound we have today. We kind of realized that the name wasn’t very fitting anymore.

There was also the issue that no one could find us on the internet because there way too many bands, movies, video games, etc. with the name Relic. So one day our guitarist Steven was driving Steven started out as a drummer in punk bands, home from work and called AJ, our drummer, and eventually began playing guitar when he and said he had thought of the name “As You moved into an apartment was no longer allowed Were.” His explanation was that we are still the to play drums. He actually started out as our same band as we were before, just with a new rhythm guitarist when we were just starting colname. So from the perspective of our audience, lege, and he is now a full fledged lead guitarist. they could say “You’re still the same band As Benji used to play guitar in a band called “Sex You Were.”

Tape Scandal.” In 2015, Jeff ran into him at NAMM and they began discussing how each oth<CV> So give me a little background on each er’s bands were doing. At the time we were looking for a new rhythm guitarist, and Benji just hapmember pened to be wanting to leave his current band. So after a few auditions, he became our new rhythm guitarist. He’s probably the most random person I

have ever met. Jeff will more than likely tell you about himself, in long detail haha… <CV> What brought you all together and how did you know this was a perfect fit? <AJ> I am actually the last original member from the band Relic (where we started out). Steven and I have been friends since 5th grade. We were both playing in bands all through high school, but never with each other. Until right at the end of our senior year both our bands played a battle of the bands together (neither of us won). Afterward both of our bands went to Red Robin together. I then asked him if he wanted to come play in our band. He showed up for a practice that next Saturday, and the rest is history.

Jeff actually found us through the Penny Saver.

Our bassist at the time had placed an ad in the Penny Saver for a new lead singer. Jeff was the first person to respond to the ad. He came to the audition, late, because his car had broken down.

The poor guy was pretty nervous, but since we were just kids and he was a little older than us and had been in big bands before, I have no idea what made him so nervous. Anyway, after singing about half of the first song Steven and I looked at each other and just smiled. We knew we had found the singer we had always wanted.

Like I said in the previous question, Benji joined the band after he and Jeff ran into each other at NAMM in 2015. We knew he was the guy we wanted after hearing some songs from his old band, which he had written. His style was very reminiscent of Avenged Sevenfold and Bullet For My Valentine, which fit perfectly with us. He and Steven have very similar writing styles. <CV> What got each of you into music and at what age did you know this is what you wanted to do?

started playing drums when I was 8 years when I walked into that pawn shop with my dad. <CV> Who would you consider your biggest music influences and why? <AJ> That's always a really tough question to answer for me. I don't really have one style of band or music that influences me. I grew up listening to Garth Brooks, then became a huge Hanson fan (no shame!), then I dove into hard rock and pop punk with Creed, P.O.D., and MxPx. These days I listen to anything from Slipknot, As I Lay Dying, and Bullet For My Valentine, to Justin Bieber and Adele. <CV> Tell us about your very first show together, how did it go and how were you received? <AJ> I’ll go with the first show that Jeff, Steven, and I played together. It was a Mirror Image Studios in Anaheim, California. All of our friends who had been coming to shows for years with our old singer were very eager to hear our new vocalist. I believe we had crammed about 17 or 18 songs down Jeffs throat in a short period of about 2 months.

Needless to say he held his own, and all our friends loved him.

<CV> You have an album called "The Calm <AJ> I had grown up loving music, and dreaming Before..." give us some insight on that, how of being on stage. I’m not really sure what drew was it received? me to it, as no one else in my family plays music.

But there was just something about it that made <AJ> All of our fans and friends were so stoked me feel right, and to this day it still drives me. I once we put that album out. It was the first “heavy” thing we had done as a band. It was the defining sound of what were to become. The title

was to sort of insinuate that this album was only the beginning for us, and it was only going to get crazier and better for us. <CV> I understand you guys have a new album in the works, anything you would like to share about that? <AJ> This next EP has been a long time coming.

The title is “Revisions”, which comes from the history of this band over the last few years. The songs we will be releasing on this EP have been written, re-written, tweaked, trashed, and brought back to life by different members that have come and gone from this band. The idea I had behind naming the album “Revisions” is that you can always start over. You can always begin again and make something better than it ever was in the first place if you push hard enough to make it happen.

This band for me has been through so many revisions, and I haven't given up yet. These songs are some of our heaviest, yet some of our most catchy and melodic. I am so proud of what we have created and can’t wait to release it. Be on the look out for the release in the next few months.

It’s amazing to have something you’ve all created together come to life. <CV> What is the motivation behind the songs your write? Do any of them speak to you on a personal level and if so why?

<JEFF ZAZUETA> All the songs I write have a very personal meaning to me whether it be spiritual or something I'm upset with or happy with.

Or even seeing things through other people's eyes, heartbreaks or triumphs they all have a very personal touch to me. I'm a very passionate man and I'm no different in my song writing or the emo<CV> Give us some insight on the song and mu- tions that spill into my words or voice. sic writing process; is it a joined effort or does one <AJ> Any songs I have written are general pretperson do all the writing? ty personal. I write a lot of my personal experi<AJ> It is very much a joined effort. Most of the ences, while trying to make them relatable to othtime one of us will start an idea for a song on our er people when they listen back. Everyone has exown at home and then bring it to practice. Then perienced something, and its an amazing feeling we all start just playing it together and the song when someone tells you that a song you’ve writcomes to life right there in the moment. We will ten has helped them or spoken to them. I tend to start and stop as many times as it takes if someone write a lot about love and heartbreak, whereas has a new idea to try for a certain part of the song. Jeff writes a lot about the struggles of life, or ways Then of course of the course of rehearsing the to give people hope. songs, and then recording them in pre-production <CV> Tell us about the music industry today and a lot changes and that's where the real production where you think "As You Were" fits in? is added. <JEFF ZAZUETA> I think the industry today is the toughest industry to break into. The days of <CV> Tell us about the recording process, any- record companies, selling millions of records and living that dream are virtually non existent. To thing you like or dislike? add to that we are a rock band and rock is on life <AJ> Recording is one of my absolute favorite support and for the life of me I can't understand things about being in a band. I love the creation that. But as far as Rick is concerned I think we process. I love hearing back the ideas you’ve had have as good a chance to do something very spein your head for so long. It’s amazing to have

cial with what we have. When the resurgence comes (and I do believe it's coming) we have all the edge, groove, melodies hooks and live show to be right in the thick of it all. <AJ> The music industry is a really strange place to be these days. There is no “making it” just by being noticed like it used to be. You have to do everything yourself if you want anything to happen. You cant expect things to come to you. The sad thing is, a lot of bands expect that if they just play really well and play some shows that they’ll be big rock stars. But that's just not the reality these days. <CV> What are your thoughts on the use and necessity of Social Media? <JEFF ZAZUETA> It's exactly that.... a necessity. But unfortunately it's become so over saturated and things like FB which used to be a great outlet for bands to promote have become more of a handcuff. Pay me and I'll let your fans see your posts. Really?! I'm waiting for something new and fresh and exciting to revolutionize social media without all the handcuffs and give me money all you struggling artists out there so I can add it to my mountain of gold. <AJ> I am a strong believer in the effectiveness of social media for bands. From a local band stand point, everything is online. Your social media presence is what keeps you connected to your fans, and it’s how they hear about your shows, releases, etc. <CV> How do you feel about music download sales, would you prefer a return to CD's and Vinyl? <JEFF ZAZUETA> The days of CD's and vinyl were the best days of music. Clearly downloads have their benefits too but music is pretty much FREE everywhere. So no one respects it anymore.

You used to buy an album and you'd covet it for months. Learning about your favorite musicians, read their lyrics and thank you's, stare at their pictures and dream of the day you could be like them or meet them. It's rarely like that anymore. People respect what they have to purchase. So as a musician I'm definitely pro cd and vinyl. <AJ> While its more convenient for people to be

able to download any songs they want, it has definitely killed the music industry and sales of music for bands these days. I wish everything was till just CD’s. No online anything. People would actually buy your music and give a damn about the bands they listen to. <CV> You recently played the NAMM After Party show at H.O.B. Tell us about that show. <JEFF ZAZUETA> We had so much fun!!

Hundreds came out to see us perform and we got to meet with our fans afterward and meet some new and awesome people. And it was all right after NAMM so we just indulged in all things music that weekend and shows like that are like Christmas morning for any band. <AJ> That show was just a blast! We are friends with a few of the bands that were on the bill: Star Off Machine, and 7 Days Away. It was really cool to be a part of a big party show like that right after something as huge as NAMM. <CV> Tell us about some of the other shows you have played so far, do you have a favorite place to play and why? <JEFF ZAZUETA> We have been so blessed!! I

mean blessed!! We have been able to play venues like Citizens Bank Arena and other really amazing places with some amazing bands. Places I only thought I'd dream of performing at. So to pick a favorite place would be tough but I will say the House Of Blues (Downtown Disney) where you saw us perform holds a very special place in our hearts. We feel like that venue was where it all really started for us. Kinda like Motley Crue at the whiskey. Although I'm definitely not trying to draw a comparison. They're legends. But I'm simply using it as a reference for understanding the amazing memories and fun shows we've had their. House Of Blues has kinda been our home. <AJ> We’ve played a ton of venues over the years. I would say House Of Blues Anaheim is one of my favorite places we’ve gotten to play.

We’ve probably played here more than any other place. It’s one of those venues I grew up seeing all my favorite bands play. So to be able to play on that same stage is quite an honor. <CV> Any funny stories to tell from tour life? <JEFF ZAZUETA> The funniest out of town show story was taking our guitar players RV up to the Ventura area and later that night this insane giant moth like beetle was flying around. It was HUGE!!! and I still don't know what possessed me to do this but I trapped it in a red solo cup and put it in our bass players hair. (I know bad karma and I was a jerk) and it took him a solid 2-3 minutes to discover this monster nesting on his head but you can imagine the reaction when he finally did discover it. No need to type said words. But just use the imagination on this one.

We all laughed like crazy though. (most of us anyway) <CV> What can fans expect to see at a "As You Were" show? <JEFF ZAZUETA> nothing short of good songs with good hooks. Edgy and easy to sing to, but most importantly a high energy show. You are gonna want to move, sing, jump or bang your head even if your that one cool guy with his arms folded trying to be super cool, your still gonna be tapping your feet even if you don't realize it and I may just call you out on stage if I see you trying to not have fun. Lol!

AJ: Jeff spitting water all over you, Steven’s hair twirling all over the stage, Benji making lots of faces, and me throwing a stick at you! So watch out! <CV> To Date, is there any one show that is memorable for you and stands out and why? <JEFF ZAZUETA> Hands down our second show at Citizens Bank Arena in Ontario. It was a big show that was put in by the radio station X103.9 (R.I.P.) and we were fortunate to be able to perform in front of 8,000 plus people and with some amazing bands like Penny wise, The Dirty Heads, Everlast, Alien Any Farm and Authority Zero. We broadcasted live on 103.9, signed a million autographs, ate some amazing food and the crowd was absolutely electric as they sang along. Never have I ever wanted to stop musical time as I did in that moment. <AJ> My all time favorite show was when we got to open X 103.9’s Merry Meltdown at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA. Playing an arena is every bands dream come true.

We opened for Dirty Heads, Pennywise, Alien Ant Farm, Authority Zero, and Everlast. <CV> Where do you think you are in the journey of "As You Were" <JEFF ZAZUETA> I think we're just scratching the surface. Everything we do gets better from songs to performances. Being in a band with some of the members as long as we have we know each other so well now that the song writing process and performances are only enhanced each time. So with a lot of prayer, a lot of hard work and a lot of diligence I think we are just scratching the surface of what's to come for us.

<AJ> In the trenches, pushing really hard to make the next thing happen. <CV> What do you like to do in your down time?

Who do you like to listen to? <JEFF ZAZUETA> Down time? Ha ha!! You got jokes!! LOL Literally I never have down time.

I go to bed late and wake up early. Work to do, kids and band life is never done. But when I can sneak in some me time, I love video games before I go to bed. And as for people I listen to I'm dominantly a rock guy for sure but my tastes vary from Pantera to Michael Jackson to Bullet For My Valentine to The Temptations to Disco, Funk to Pink and supported everything I did until my mom passed. But my father continued his relentless to Motley Crue and everything in between. support even after my mom passed. You'll see <AJ> I love bingeing TV shows on Netflix ha- him at every show. He should be our mascot. ha…Breaking Bad, Dexter, True Detective, that Lol. I have the two most supportive and loving kinda stuff. I mostly listen to heavy music, but I parents God could have ever blessed me with. As love all kinds of music. Honestly, I’m listening to for my son Brayden he knows all the words to my the new Justin Bieber album is I'm answering songs and has even performed With me on stage these questions ha ha before. He wants me to play my songs over and <CV> Are your families supportive of your ca- over until even I'm sick of them. Lol. He loves reer? Jeff, I know your dad is very supportive and everything I do and to me that's as big a blessing proud; it is because of him we met at NAMM as I could ask for in this business. I get to be the which was very cool! I also understand from your idol of the greatest fan on the planet..... My son. announcement at the H.O.B. show in Anaheim And yeah he decided to kinda follow the roots of that you have a son who at the time of your show his daddy and take a shot at the entertainment was in Chicago doing a modeling shoot for Sears? business. He's blessed with uncanny talent for actTell us a little about that, we all could see how ing and modeling and so Sears saw some of his photos and work and they flew him out to Chicaproud you were of him! go the day of our show to do a full photo shoot <JEFF ZAZUETA> Being a singer in a band has for them. I got word backstage that his plane had always created some form of turmoil in relationjust landed so on our last song I decided to pull ships and it takes a certain kind of woman to be out my phone and FaceTime him and have the able to be understanding. It's not your common hundreds in attendance tell him congratulations. element in life so a relationship will either eventuIt was a very surreal and exciting moment for ally sink or swim after they're introduced to it. both of us and I couldn't be a more proud father.

But as for my family, some close family and friends have seen me do this for so long they really <AJ> My family has always been supportive of don't have as much invested as they may have me in this band, and they come to nearly every used to. It's a little disheartening for me, but I'm show! sure there's a lot of artists like myself who deal <CV> What advice would you give a band just with that on a common basis. It's all exciting at starting out? first but I'm sure after over a decade plus, people can get a little desensitized to your situation even <JEFF ZAZUETA> ALOT!!! But briefly I'll say if it's family and friends. However I can honestly lock yourselves in with like minded and dedicated say my biggest fans are my father and my son. My musicians. If they don't have the same wants don't dad has never ceased to support me since I started force it. Move onto those who do. Then practice, in this he and my mom were at every single show work, practice, work, practice, work and when

your done doing that...... Start WORKING! Cause it's your only chance. <AJ> Practice. Use a damn metronome! And don't forget to use earplugs. I’m deaf. Haha <CV> What is your favorite thing about being on stage? What motivates you to do what you do? <JEFF ZAZUETA> oh so much to say here but again I'll keep it brief. But my passion, my stress, my freedom, my heart and all the fruits of my labor come out on stage so the release and excitement are my drug. Commanding a crowd and the challenge of turning strangers from I'm just here to see a band into oh my god I saw the best band last night are all thrills for me. I get to express my self in so many ways. I'm simply alive on stage. I'm home! <AJ> I love the adrenaline you get on stage. Not only are a bunch of people there to see you perform, but you're doing what you love to do the most. Hearing people scream your bands name, or sing along to your songs is such an unreal feeling!

The love of music and what it does not only for me personally, but for those listening is what motivates me to do what I do. <CV> What does "As You Were" have planned for the rest of 2016? Any tours or projects in the works? <JEFF ZAZUETA> We are locking in some shows currently and weighing out some options but our biggest goal is to get our second release and music video out. Once we do that we can plan everything else from there. But the music video concept and our EP is done. Now it's promoting it and releasing it the right way. <AJ> Right now we’re planning our EP release show, along with shooting a music video for our single “I Hear You Now” <CV> What would you like to say to your fans and our readers? <JEFF ZAZUETA> Again I say I'm blessed! We (As You Were) are blessed and we couldn't do what we do, we couldn't play the shows we play or be inspired in certain ways, or get to share in so many stories and meet so many wonderful people

if it wasn't for you! All who support us ..

From the bottom of my heart and everyone in the band we love you so much and appreciate you so much more than I think you'll ever know. So thank you!! And God bless!!

And to you Sherry! I'm so grateful I met you.

Your a wonderful gem I found in that sea of people! So thank you for all you do, all your support and all your hard work. You ROCK!!!! <AJ> Thank you for caring about what we do. Thank you for listening, coming to shows, singing along, buying merch, sharing our songs and videos online. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

2016 NAMM Jam pro- LA Gunns played an exduced by Delve Texas was citing set with Phil on set again at The Grove in vocals, Michael on bass, Anaheim California. This was a highly anticipated Kenny guitar and Steve show with John 5 the guitar on drums. They played a legend from Rob Zombie. great set and probably This year’s NAMM Jam were the only normalcy had a silent auction with all of the evening. proceeds going to the House of Blues Music Beasto Blanco from Los Foundation. Sponsored by Angeles CA with none Band Gear and Graphics, other than Calico Cooper, Musicians Institute, Guitar daughter of rock and rolls Grip, Guitar World, Minarik Guitars, Riva, Revolver, theatrical mastermind Alice Blackstar Amplification, Cooper and Chuck Garric Coffin Case, and House of on vocals and guitar. Chris Blues Music Forward Latham guitar, Jan Foundation. Danny B with LeGrow bass, and Tim Clem Burke drummer of Blondie opened the spectac- Husung on drums, not only ular show showcasing the does this band have the phenomenal guitar skills complete in your face rock comparable to the guitar but the intense theatrics. picking legend Chet Atkins. The played about 10 songs They played mostly instrumental songs but did throw with the most beautiful one in a twist with David Vin- being 'Feed My Frankencent from Morbid Angel stein' with the brilliant Aland Jerry Lee Lewis’s niece ice Cooper coming out and Anne Marie Lewis with a singing with his daughter 'Whole Lotta of Shaking Calico. The performance Going on'. was well done and a high-

light of the evening.Jonny Coffin of Coffin Cases put on his fashion show displaying several girls rocking the various rock looks. Jonny’s fashion show is always an excitement for NAMM Jam. John 5 was the perfect nding for the entire evening of theatrical entertainment. Playing over an hour of mostly instrumental songs with quite the array of guitars from a green lava lamp looking one to one extremely well lit guitar with white LED lights. A few of the highlights were the Adams Family theme song and the electric banjo. Josh Todd from Buckcherry came out to sing cover 'Killing in the Name of' by Rage Against the Machine and 'Crazy Bitch' with Keith Nelson on guitar as well. To end the show John 5 did a little montage of Van Halen, Metallica, Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Rob Zombie and Ozzy Osbourne.

This was yet another great AMM Jam by Delve Texas.

Review by Kathleen Clarkson Photos by Jamie Paullus

Music Industry Hits High Notes at The 2016 NAMM Show The music industry returns home to businesses in a record 101,736 NAMM Show registrants. worldwide with innovative ideas and products This is a 2% increase over last year’s recordthat will bring the power of music to the masses. setting event.

Held January 21-24, NAMM welcomed a record For buyers worldwide, NAMM is the ultimate number of exhibitors and registrants to Anaheim, music store. “We’re shopping our established CA. Hundreds of new-to-NAMM companies vendors – like Yamaha – buying combo, band & paired with an increase in global interest, and orchestra and looking for what is new,” said Stethose quintessential “only at NAMM” moments ve Ceo, general manager, C. A. House Music in made for what many NAMM members called the Ohio. “I like to see people, build relationships, most exciting NAMM Show in the association’s and meet face-to-face with the heads of brands – 115-year history. it makes a difference. Sure, our reps will come to “As we look at the record number of exhibiting see us, but here we are able to see the excitement brands, influx of new entrepreneurial spirit and of the industry, see what everyone is doing and attendance from 125 countries, the industry how it comes together – it is amazing!” seems poised for vital growth and break- This year according to longtime NAMM Show throughs,” said NAMM President and CEO Joe exhibitors, buyers arrived ready to buy, many Lamond. “The NAMM Show is a reflection of writing orders at the show. “We’ve been our industry, not only where it is now, but even swamped! We expanded our booth to have more more importantly where it is heading next. room and it filled up right away with customNAMM members brought their A-game to Ana- ers…like it is supposed to (with a smile),” said heim this week with creative, innovative, beauti- Greg Deering, president and co-founder, Deering ful products. They also came with inquisitive Banjos. “Mostly we are seeing retail store owners minds, filling NAMM's educational sessions all and they are writing a lot of orders. Our sales this four days." show are up over average, our numbers are really As the scope of music making expands, so do the good.” number of brands that depend on the NAMM Show platform to unveil new products. This year’s show was the largest and most inclusive event in the National Association of Music Merchants’ (NAMM) 115-year history. A record 1,726 exhibiting companies representing more than 6,000 brands brought the entrepreneurial spirit to life. The energy was palatable, with a 7% increase in exhibiting companies over 2015’s event.

“We’re almost in a bubble focused on designing and developing products all year. But we set deadlines and goals around NAMM. NAMM is the platform, the only platform really, our flagship event to launch products,” said Brian Ball, president, Ernie Ball Inc. A mix of NAMM member buyers and retail employees, exhibitors, media, artists, NAMM members’ invited guests, NAMM’s Generation Next (college music students) and Music Education Day participants (school music teachers) resulted

competitive advantage. Coming to the NAMM The number of new companies relying on the Show also means having the choice of the best NAMM show platform grew again, representing quality of products. It's not all about the money 409 of the total exhibiting companies. In addition though this is also about making and keeping to the new-to-NAMM names, 174 companies re- friends. It's like a big school reunion.”

What’s New?

Exhibitors noted the international feel. "Half of The busy 2016 show provided many emerging the buyers we've been seeing are international, brands with the ideal launch pad to meet new from places like Germany, Sweden, Israel...it's partners. “This is my first show and we’re really definitely a worldwide event,” Paul Vercellotti, enthusiastic. It’s our first time to be able to make a Avid. “And this event is a whole lot of fun. It's the good impression on buyers face-to-face. Many excitement and passion that gives this show a difpeople have stopped by our booth in hall E. This ferent vibe versus other trade shows." turned after a lapse of a year or more.

morning (Thursday) I’ve already talked to five Trend Spotting quality distributors who were extremely interested While retailers and distributors come to NAMM in our product,” said Renaud Sauzedde, Wild to make purchase decisions, the show is also the Custom Guitars, France. place to see the big picture of where the industry is One distributor explained how attending NAMM heading, and spot potential growth areas for the fuels her business year-round. “Over the years the year ahead. market has changed along with how we do busi- A trend in analog synthesizers made a major ness. Coming here we can observe and keep up statement this year with a bustling neighborhood with those changes. We also find new brands to of small modular synthesizer brands and more esrepresent, of course. And we can ask our peers tablished companies making it a focus. "The bigwho might already represent these new brands for gest thing is the analog synthesizer,” Mike Adthe experience in their markets, helping us to as- ams, president, Moog Music. "We're all seeing the sess whether we can be successful with them too,” change in the market, the analog synthesizer is a said Lynette McCullough, Keynote Music Sales, big thing."

Ireland. “The timing is also so vital - it's the beginning of a new year, we get inspiration, fresh ideas, The growth story for fretted instruments continued in 2015, with electric starting to catch up to and renewed vitality for the year ahead.” its acoustic brethren’s hot growth. "We're adding Increases in International lots of new electric strings - electric guitars are The NAMM Show’s global stature grew with starting to make a comeback,” Jeff Sefton, presi15,915 international registrants traveling to Ana- dent, Butler Music in Missouri. And the balance heim from abroad, a 20% increase over 2015. At- between analog and digital continues with greater tendees came from every corner of the globe rep- variety in both. Sefton added, "We're integrating more analog-we tailor more to the entry/midresenting 125 different countries.

“Instead of going to various other shows we can level player, and they tend to want more low-end see all the new products in one place, meeting old digital and some analogue pedals.” and new suppliers. It's very important for our relationships with existing suppliers that we come, and good for us to see new suppliers who come here, to keep expanding our business,” said Uche Ezeani, owner, De-Saints View International Co. Ltd., a distributor and retailer from Nigeria. “And since we sell to both other retailers and to end consumers it is vital to have access to the latest products first hand. I think we are regarded to be one of the best shops in Nigeria and it gives us a

The percussion world held a steady beat with buying interest meeting star power for many brands. The biggest drummers of our time including Questlove, Josh Dun, Tré Cool, Stewart Copeland, Carmine Appice, Josh Devine and many more stopped by the show.

With demos on every corner and big crowds, the DJ and pro audio software market appeared vibrant throughout. "I'm looking for new DJ controllers, headphones, speakers...this is the main

show for us audio buyers,” said Kyle Kjensrud, They play a very important role and we can’t do Audio Category Buyer, Full Compass Systems. what we do without them. I know that and am very grateful for that.”

NAMM Show Moments Then there are those moments, moments that only happen at a NAMM Show, when you look over and a legendary artist is demoing an instrument right next to you. With hundreds of major stars attending the show to support their brand partners, there were more of those moments this year than ever before.

Where other than NAMM does the day start with ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro, Annie Clark a.k.a. St. Vincent, and Graham Nash on the same stage, as it did on NAMM’s morning NAMM U Breakfast of Champions. Legendary musician and songwriter Graham Nash shared personal anecdotes from his more than 50 years in music with a crowd of 1,522 industry leaders. “Graham Nash was breathing the spirit of NAMM and importance of music education, the importance keeping music in schools fresh,” said Anthony Cutietta, San Diego Music Studios.

“Weird Al” Yankovic hopped on stage for the inaugural NAMM Foundation Grand Rally for Music Education sharing honest insights and some laughs about his creative process with college students and educators. Evening award events including the 31st annual NAMM TEC Awards featuring Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, Don Was, and Nathan East to the She Rocks Awards featuring Jennifer Batten, Amy Heidemann of Karmin and Chaka Khan added to the star-studded trade show’s allure.

The NAMM Nissan Grand Plaza Stage sparkled under a nearly full moon starting off with an intimate performance by Graham Nash. Dr. John & The Nite Trippers headlined the NAMM Foundation Celebration of Music Education in association with the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus Imagine Party on Friday. Saturday capped off with a sing-along set of classic rock hits by The Legends.

After the session, Nash headed out to a bustling NAMM Show, saying that his life’s work couldn’t happen without the businesses at NAMM, “I’m constantly drawn to the fact that these people are an incredible link in the communication chain.

Next Up Summer NAMM returns to Nashville’s beautiful Music City Center on June 23-25. Global growth opportunities abound at NAMM Musikmesse Russia, September 15-18 and ProLight + Sound NAMM Russia, September 15-17. The NAMM Show returns to Anaheim, January 19–22, 2017.

Then in 2018, the global music product industry will return to Anaheim with room to grow into the new, modern wing of the Anaheim Convention Center that is currently under construction.

NAMM NEWS

Order in the Chaos Differences in Perspective The Big Rock Stars don’t think like you do…

Have you ever thought about that? How about this, have you ever sat in on a meeting with your peers, and you think to yourself, “What the hell am I doing here? Where do these freaking people come from? They think and talk on a level way beyond my understanding and comprehension!

This is STUPID!” I did, once in an office setting. And it got me ostracized from future meetings because I voiced it out loud; and, to the President of the company, no less. Of course, I’ve also felt that way after a few late nights in the studio consuming copious amounts of Cold Saké, but that’s another story, for another time.

My point is this, when you feel outside of your element, it is entirely natural. It doesn’t make you “less” than them, and it doesn’t make your voice any less heard. That is, unless what it is you have to say cannot be understood. Let’s face it, you shouldn’t get frustrated and act stupid when those in the room do not understand you, you need to try to learn how to speak to them in their own language. Don’t expect all of them to change their education and experience to accommodate your ignorance.

Just like, when you are in the studio, and the singer says to you that he wants a “little more sprinkle in the cans.” Now, I know EXACTLY what that means, but if I had never heard that phrase before, I would not have the foggiest of what that guy meant.

So, put yourself behind that board… you are

tracking this band you have looked up to for years and they are gods to you… would you have had any idea what that guy meant by that statement? Or -- and be honest -- would you have looked at him with a stupid expression on your mug until he yelled into the microphone, “GIVE ME SOME F-CKING REVERB”?

OUCH! So, what does this have ANYTHING to do with how Pro Musicians think that is so different than the way I do?

Simple, they think and operate their band on a level you simply cannot comprehend. They do not run their band like they play the local dive every other Wednesday night. They do not schedule practices and not show up (not if they want to stay employed), they do not cancel a gig because their girlfriend needed the car. But, you say those things are normal in life. You’re right, but without the same priorities, those things will prevent you from going further with your band by focusing on them. Instead of focusing on those things outside of your control, focus on what you CAN control. And if that is making killer music… DO IT. But you have to understand that ultimate success and staying-power in the music industry comes from a different pattern of thinking than yours.

Theirs is the Business Owner’s type of thinking.

The Entrepreneur’s way of thinking. They realize that if they don’t go into the studio and record the next track, they don’t get paid. If they don’t get out there and tour, they go hungry. It’s a JOB. And they KNOW it. You don’t. And that is why you will never be a part of that higher echelon of musician. You will never be accepted into the group of guys you have looked up to for years by your own merits if you cannot communicate with them on THEIR level.

Get it?

As a parallel, not everyone can be a Business Owner. Not everyone can be a huge NFL star, or a Hotel Magnate, or a Financial Whiz… only those WIRED to be those things will succeed at them. Just like Music. It cannot be forced, and while it CAN be learned, it cannot bring about success if YOU are not thinking the right way.

Dreaming will only get you so far. And dabbling won’t take you even HALF that distance. The pro’s know it is all in, or all out.

else I had never heard of at the time, I had noticed that they had been spinning the guy’s CD on the overhead the whole time we were there and there was this section where the guitar had a particular sound to it. And I immediately pegged that there had to be at least three guitars on the phrase. So, I asked him how he got that sound.

Forty-five minutes later, we shook hands and he thanked me for the pleasant conversation.

The next time he came into town, I went to see I will share a brief story to explain how I came to him. Having educated myself on his musical catthis realization. alog and solo work, I figured I would try and do I was a young aspiring guitarist in my late teens a better job of communicating with him out of when I visited a local music store with a friend. respect for HIM, not for any other reason than Not knowing there would be a celebrity guitarist that. Again, we spoke extensively, but upon partthere that day. We noticed there was an excep- ing, I asked him why he was so willing to give tional amount of cars in the lot, but figured there me so much of his time, and not the others trying must be some sort of sale going on. We went in, to get close to us. He said, “Because you talk to and noticed this line wrapping around the inside me how I expect to be talked to. And you LISof the store and this security guy walks up and TEN… your eyes are not filled with anticipation says, “If you’re here for an autograph, get in line!” or expectation of something you don’t necessarily deserve. Your points are educated but open, which shows me you have the room to grow.

I said, “Dude, all I want is a pack of strings, a You have shown me how much you have grown couple picks, and the opportunity to jam on gear I between the first time we met and the second.

And because of those things, I see you as a couldn’t hope to afford.”

PEER and not a FAN.” Brien DeChristopher Anyway, as the crowd died down, I figured “what the hell?” and got in line. The guy who was doing Musician/Entrepreneur/Owner the signing was standing behind a glass accesso- Custom Drum Wraps ries counter with a stack of glossy black & whites.

As each person stepped up, he signed his name, flicked the picture across the counter in their direction, not looking up, and went on to sign the next. I watch six dudes walk up to him and he spoke not to ONE of them. So, when it was my turn, he flicked the picture toward me and I flicked it back and said, “Dude, I don’t know who you are, but if you cannot even take the time to write ‘To Brien’ on it, I’m done, here.”

of

He snickered and took the picture, wrote “to Brien” on it and handed it to me (notice he didn’t slide it back, but actually placed it into my hand).

After the signing was over, I walked back over and asked what his gig was. He smiled a huge smile and sat down on a speaker cabinet and we talked. After he told me he played for someone

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