CVNW_July_2013

JULY Issue

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

Also in this issue…

Van’s Warped Tour Photos Acoustic Minds Interview Metal Exiles!

News you can Use and more...

From the Desk of the Pres Another month passes by, June brings with it the heat of the summer and the concerts and car / bike shows that take place.

The President gets a chance this issue to sit down and spend some quality time with the boys in One Gun Shy, a hot rock group taking the Seattle music scene by storm.

Also this month, CV NorthWest and PureSin Photography bring you an incredible set of pictures from the Van’s Warped Tour stop in WA state. Not to be outdone, our friends at SM Photography give us the Fail Safe Project and Seven Cycles.

We also take a definitely left hand turn and talk to the Price twins, Jenni & Amanda, from Acoustic Minds...millennium pop EDM is not what we’ve brought you so far, but that’s no reason not to support the band and show the ladies love.

Metals Exiles wears a different hat this month by reviewing a concert by Oleander.

We talk about the value of CPO, give you MATH and talk about car loan terms, and bring you our regularly schedule tattoo display-fest.

Enjoy!

Cover Rock Calendar One Gun Shy News you Can Use Pure Sin @ VWT Drumiture Babe of the Month Metal Exiles: Oleander SM Photography!

Gear the Pros Use Acoustic Minds Ask the Master Is CPO Right for You? Tattoo Gallery

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

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She's Not Dead Crazy Train She's Not Dead She's Not Dead Witchburn She's Not Dead Witchburn She's Not Dead Delaney & Paris Highway Star Madame Torment She's Not Dead Witchburn Gold Dust Metal Shop Metal Shop Prophets of Addiction She's Not Dead Splintered Throne Splintered Throne Stolen Rose Witchburn One Gun Shy Cyanida Prophets of Addiction Stolen Rose Oriya Prophets of Addiction Delaney & Paris Stolen Rose

Sally O'Malley's Rapid City, SD Estacada Big Bang Estacada, OR Chesterfield Sioux City, IA Big's Sports Bar Sioux Falls, SD Tony V's Everett, WA the Dalles House St Croix Falls, WI the Sports Center Yakima, WA Guest House Watertown, SD Tiger Bar Portland, OR the New Copper Penny Portland, OR the New Copper Penny Portland, OR Showtime Bar & Grill Burns, OR Analog Lounge Portland, OR the New Copper Penny Portland, OR Lakewood Waterfront Festival Lakewood, WA Lakewood Waterfront Festival Lakewood, WA the Hub Bar & Grill Centralia, WA Hamley's Saloon Pendleton, OR Oak Grove Bar & Grill Oak Grove, OR Oak Grove Bar & Grill Oak Grove, OR the Tiger Bar Portland, OR the Center Spokane, WA Trattoria Amante Issaquah, WA South Point Casino Las Vegas, NV Bubba's Roadhouse Sultan, WA 45th Street Pub Portland, OR One Eyed Jack's Lynnwood, WA One Eyed Jack's Lynwood, WA Tiger Bar Portland, OR OR Brewers Festival Portland, OR

One Gun Shy, but all guns blazin’! This rock quartet from Seattle make a mark in the music scene almost overnight; so primed and ready were they that soon after they formed in 2011 they released their first CD, “After the Rain”. Having carved their sound around the Seattle and surrounding areas for the past two years, and thus proving that fans enjoy what they have created, the guys are looking forward to unleashing more music to the world soon!

CV NorthWest’s Pres loads all barrels with the boys from the band...

<CV NW> Tell us about the evo- and there was a bunch of weird no choice but to jump on the lution of OGS, about the bringing stuff…and then the ad for this rhythm guitar spot to enhance the band. sound that we were trying to together of this lineup. achieve! <Chris> Bobby and I got together <CV NW> Almost answered the <Oliver> It‘s weird, I also aninitially and decided that we are swered an AD on Craigslist in the going to form a working commer- wrong ad, eh? cial hard rock original act that will <Nate> Yeah! Kidding of course, I "Casual Encounters" section and be viable in the Mainstream Rock just answered an ad for a serious ended up meeting a great singer Market. From there we instantly guitar player who liked Slash with some really good songs – the started working on song ideas Bob- (Guns and Roses, Velvet Revolver) ―casual encounter‖ was disappointby had worked up and some that and Mark Tremonti (Alter Bridge, ing though. Good thing I know were just ideas. So we put that in Creed). I went over to Bobby‘s how to play a little bass. the Garage Band format and started house one morning and recorded a <CV NW> Any particularly interwith some rough demo‘s to give to guitar solo demo. I think they potential players for audition pur- asked me to be in the band later esting story on how the name came about? poses. After running ads for play- that week. <Chris> Because we wanted the <Chris> Yes actually back to the ers, going through different guitar two guitar line-up, we were thinkstory regarding the guitar posiplayers we finally settled on Nate ing Nate on Rhythm and Chris on tions…when Chris didn‘t work out and a guitarist Chris. <Nate> I saw the ad on Lead role. Chris eventually didn‘t I came up with the name ―One Gun Craigslist...eventually. I clicked on work out and we moved Nate to Shy‖, as we are one guitarist shy! a link called ‗Casual Encounters‘ the lead guitar role. Bobby, who <Oliver> I always say it's a harken played a little guitar anyway, had back to the old west when you‘re

lot of the same styles musically! <Oliver> Right, most of the time we have the same goal for a song; that it kicks ass and be listenable to the musician and the fan. <Chris> That transforms into to some great magic when you‘re writing songs. Also, we are all perfectionists when it comes to our craft, which is important to achieve the sound we‘re after! Not to mention helps us out for the live performances as well! But don‘t get me wrong, it isn‘t all work and no play, we just try not to take it too serious but still remain true to our art! <Nate> We agreed up front that everything would be very demodown a man that you‘re a gun cratic. We vote on (almost) every- pelin, and U2. Those are about the shy...cause we tried to be a 5 piece thing. So it‘s helped us to continue least creative answers in the world. band and it never worked out for pushing forward thorough any But I think all three of those bands various reasons so we were always bumps in the road. have carved out sonic territories "One Gun Shy". Plus the numerous <Bobby> Nate‘s makes a good that are all their own, you know other cool names we came up with point, we really are team players it‘s them as soon as you hear them. were taken....of course. that put music before personal And there‘s an energy, passion, egos. and fearlessness in that music that I <CV NW> What is it about this <Nate> And I think it keeps every have always loved. lineup that you guys think person happy about the band‘s di- <Chris> My musical influences are rection. There‘s not any one person wide open and I love anything that works so well? <Chris> Well, first off we like a who has the reins and gets to call is great! I was trained in jazz and the shots. Also, we have a strong mutual respect for one another, as musicians and as people. We enjoy each other‘s company. Being in a band is just an enormous group project, so it helps to like the people you‘re working with. <CV NW> What are your musical influences? <Bobby> Too many to list them all, but my top three vocal heroes are Freddie Mercury, Myles Kennedy, and Chris Cornell. I have too many bands I love to ever try to list them, but in today's music scene Alter Bridge does it for me better than any other. <Nate> I love Metallica, Led Zep-

the drum kit! It didn‘t help that John Bonham had entered my psyche and taken over! <Bobby> I have many other passions and interests. I am a high school history teacher and love to learn new things and show them to the next generation. I caught the "rock bug" when I was about 12 with CCR, Skynyrd, and Zeppelin...I never looked back after that. <CV NW> What do you think is the biggest appeal to your fans of OGS? <Nate> That‘s a tough one to answer - why do people like you? concert band so I like diverse high school. I wanted to move to Ha! I suppose we try to follow the rhythmic patterns. I take a little Cali and do the whole thing for a now tried and true formula of all from all the music out there and while. Then I got really into play- rock bands we look up to. On one that seems to hone my songwriting ing the guitar in college. I‘m sort a hand, write as good songs as possiartistry! Led Zeppelin was a huge late bloomer in guitar terms. I did- ble and make the best recordings of influence on me, especially John n‘t really fall in love with playing those songs as possible. On the Bonham. He just hit the drums the guitar until I was about 19 or other hand, put on the best live with a power and conviction that I 20. show possible. believe makes up a large part of <Chris> That point happened <Oliver> Easy…a diverse CD and my drum style! A number of other when I was fifteen and playing kick ass live show of hard rock drummers can also be of note… drums behind my dad! I was play- songs but some softer songs for the Carmine Appice, Shannon Larkin, ing C&W at the time. We were ladies.

Tommy Lee, Scott Phillips and opening for a handful of nationals <Chris> Well that would have to even our local boys Michael like Lee Greenwood, Waylon Jen- be our catchy songs! (I would Derosier and Scott Rockenfeld. I nings and Willie Nelson. I just felt hope?) But what a lot of friends, use a lot of different things and like I could do so much more on fans and even bands that have make it my own. One thing I do is I ―play for the song.‖ <Oliver> Top 5 Bands for me still too this day are Foo Fighters, Korn, Fuel, 311 and LIT. <CV NW> Did you have any other interests growing up besides music? When did you hit that wall and say “yeah, I want to rock”? <Oliver> I have been acting since I was 16 and this is another expressive way to be creative and fulfill other artistic endeavors. <Nate> I wanted to be an actor for a while too. I was a theater dude in

played with us just seem to always say that we are just nice guys! Just trying to keep it real! <Bobby> I would like to think that our fans appreciate that we are just regular guys that talk about issues that face many people. We have a sound that we try to shoot for, but we are also not afraid to push ourselves and our genre further. <CV NW> One of the words I’ve seen to describe the band is “cohesive”, which is really a compliment to a band still in its younger phase; how were you able to fall into step so quickly and, it seems, so easily? the promoter that used my last act to do at that point was make sure <Nate> That‘s a nice thing to say. ―Dysinformation‖ quite a few we were tight and our songs seWe‘re quite clear on what bands times for events in the past. As you gued together nicely! I didn‘t want we like and what bands we don‘t know or maybe don‘t know, some of the newbies to get nervlike. We want to fall within the ―Dysinformation‖ was on the A&E ous! sonic territory of bands like Metaltelevision show ―Knievel‘s Wild <Oliver> I think we were a pretty lica, Godsmack, Alter Bridge, VelRide‖ which aired for over a year good opening band show for our vet Revolver, etc. We‘re clear on and a half here in the states and in- first time out. Maybe a little fast on being melodic hard rock with no ternationally! We were on over some songs but a good representascreaming, and the occasional guteight episodes and a large portion tion of what was going to busting solo. of my songs were used in the come....I'll give it a 90%.We got <Bobby> We were very sure to get show! So it really is who you the jitters out in a good way. the right people in place right from know. A lot of the photos and pho- <Bobby> I think that we did a very the beginning. I think this is the tographers were all done through good job for our first show. We key to musical and personal cohemy bro‘s that I‘ve used before in knew that we needed to get out siveness. the past. It also helps to be a ―Go there and get the jitters out of the <Chris> A lot of the initial steps Getter!‖ Or as my Dad used to way. I was very excited to start were helpful when I first started to say…‖the squeaky wheel gets the playing with these guys, and it conbook this band in the beginning. grease!‖ tinues to be a blast!

Our first show was a national show <Oliver> *cough* Someone yell- <Nate> The first show? I was I was able to get through knowing ing like a dictator...‖Practice, Prac- nervous, but I don‘t think I forgot tice, Practice‖. anything. It‘s taken us some time to feel more comfortable together <CV NW> Tell us about the first on stage. But we hit the ground show of OGS, about how you felt running with gigs. I think we startgetting ready to play with this ed gigging shortly after I joined. group of guys… <Chris> As I said prior our first <CV NW> Do you have any parshow was a national show opening ticularly memorable shows? for ―Smile Empty Soul‖, a great <Oliver> Hell yes I do....our 2nd band who had a few hits and are show we got cut off the stage 25 still out there doing it! All I wanted minutes into a 40 minute set after

announcing we have 2 songs left. some kids in the audience strum “After the Rain” very quickly afPower cuts out and over the house my guitar as they were reaching ter forming, how were you able monitors we hear "Uhhhhh no you out for it during a guitar solo. to gel so quickly – most bands guys are done" and then the bed of Seemed cool in theory, but the solo have to ease into a comfortable music gets louder and we‘re left certainly fell apart. rhythm before undertaking such holding our johnsons like ―WTF just happened‖. Sadly we had au- <CV NW> When the band writes a task. dio recorded that night so we can a song, are there any particular <Nate> The guys had a very wise philosophy from day one of my relive the moment anytime... LOL inspirations? <Bobby> I really enjoyed playing <Chris> Inspirations…that would joining the band. It was that we the shows we played at Hailey's in have to go back to what we grew needed to get a physical, tangible Everett...I am super bummed that it up listening to individually! We product as soon as possible. Otherwise, it would be much harder to closed. each bring our own twisted style to <Chris> Well one does come to mind when I think about it. We were doing a show with Madlife, a SoCal act and couldn‘t believe how unbelievably tight and flawless our show was that night! We were on fire! After walking off stage one of the Madlife band members told me ―great set!‖ So that right there made it all worth it! <Nate> We headlined the Hard Rock Café a few months ago. That was really fun. We played with some great bands, (Kiss the Gunner‘s Daughter, Stonebender) and we had quite a few people turn out.

Everything felt good and sounded good, you can‘t ask for much more. each and every song we do. Of <CV NW> What is one of the cra- course when I bring a song to the promote the band online, get ziest things a fan as done at a table I reference certain styles and shows, or even create fans who like our live sound but wanted to hear a OGS show? artists to each member so that they record. There were times in the last <Chris> Well, that would have to can get a sense of what is going on year where I was certainly pushed be when this crazy drunk came out in my head musically! to the limit because recording an on stage and ran across running <Nate> Those three bands I listed album professionally is a costly from security. I just watched as before are always the guiding forcendeavor in time and money. But it they literally tackled him! Too es. But I like a lot of different was also a lot of fun much Jäger I think. kinds of music…jazz, blues, even <Bobby> I had written the songs <Bobby> One lady drove nails up Celtic music. But those influences before the band was formed, and her nose at our merch table to try don‘t come out in our writing (yet). after we formed everyone just did and gross me out...weird. <Bobby> Whatever that particular their job and molded their parts inperson is going through and experi<CV NW> …words escape me… to more unique and better versions encing at the time. More and more <Bobby> Yeah, I know. that I could do alone. It was nice to <Oliver> Buy Tickets too our next inspirations are coming up the have some things in the bag before3 shows in a row. Probably crazy pipe. hand. but a very cool gesture. <Oliver> All the songs were writ<Nate> One show I tried to let <CV NW> The band released

ten and in fine form. <Nate> Yeah, it sure helped that Bobby had all of the songs written by the time I joined. I just had put guitar solos and layers over the top of his ideas. <Chris> Yeah that was just some serious rehearsals and preproduction…a LOT of preproduction! Plus it really helps to know what you want a particular song to sound like prior to tracking. That really takes the guess work out of it! <Oliver> We figured that after some live playing and song tweaking let‘s be that band that records a full 13 song CD and try to surprise a lot people with a full length CD. Everyone's ears have a lot of options on our CD too choose from. OGS? eo), it might as well not have hap<Oliver> Honestly, I wish I knew pened. <CV NW> Do any of your songs exactly, but it‘s good and bad I <Bobby> I wish I knew more about speak to you on a personal lev- guess. No matter how much we so- technology that's for sure! I am el? cial network it still seems a chal- humbled with how little I know <Bobby> I would be a fake if they lenge every week to get a packed sometimes! didn't. I wrote all the lyrics on the room of people willing to come out first album. and see you once, let alone twice. <CV NW> Tell us your view of <Chris> Quite a few actually! To <Chris> I think it has brought a the Seattle rock scene? be honest a large portion of these face to us as an artist so our fans <Chris> The Seattle scene is very songs lyrically could have and and friends can see what and who diverse musically which a good probably has happened to all of us! we are in a non-threatening and thing! I hope that will make us <Nate> I‘ve always said I appreci- very approachable way! Also it stand out! There are a lot of great ate Bobby as a lyricist. ―Good to be does make it easier to reach larger acts out there! A lot of great bands have come from Seattle to conquer Lonely‖ is one of my favorites he‘s volumes in a fan sense! written. You can tell he‘s channel- <Nate> Well I wouldn‘t say it‘s the rock market! Look at Heart, ing real pain in some of the words changed anything per se, because Queensryche, Pearl Jam, Alice in he‘s chosen. It‘s about how he‘d we‘ve always operated in the social Chains, Soundgarden, Candlebox rather be alone than in a relation- media world since we started. and don‘t forget Nirvana! A lot of ship with a certain person. I‘ve Maybe if we‘d formed in 2005 we talent here! We hope to continue been there, and felt that many would have had a learning curve the trend. times. getting online, but since we formed <Bobby> We are blessed and curs<Oliver> I always have my five in 2011, we‘ve always tried to use ed at the same time to be in this favorite to play. Don‘t want to say social media to our advantage. But scene. There are so many talented which ones they are…it‘s my self- there‘s still a lot more to be done. bands in this area that demand atish secret.

Our next venture is creating more tention. We really have to put our of a video presence online. It‘s best foot forward all the time to <CV NW> You guys are pretty pretty apparent to us that in today‘s keep up. active on social media, how has world, if it‘s not talked about <Nate> It‘s diverse but tight knit. it changed music in the world of online (a show, a recording, a vid- There are a TON of bands around

town…and a ton in the south end in a band, everyone wants to know commercial that tends to lean to(Tacoma, Puyallup, Fife, etc) as what it sounds like. Having an al- wards what‘s on the radio for me! well. There are talented people all bum is a way to make that happen. What‘s relevant? I believe that it is over. So it‘s intimidating in a way, just a matter of time and we hope <CV NW> Dylan Fant said that because you‘re constantly remindDylan will change his opinion! But ed of much competition there is if you guys are almost but not then again that‘s one opinion! you want to set yourselves apart. quite “radio friendly” but your But at the same time, we‘ve music is still incredibly popular <CV NW> Who would be that formed some great relationships and moves your fans, talk about “OMG” band to tour with for with a number of local bands, and t h e decision to n o t OGS? that‘s very rewarding. <Chris> First and foremost would “commercialize “the music. <Oliver> It‘s crowded but really <Bobby> I have little respect for have to be for us Alter Bridge! good. There is an abundance of talpeople that play music they don't <Bobby> For me...Alter Bridge. ent here in Seattle and it only keeps like just to make a buck. Everyone No question. growing. There might come a day has choices in life, and personally I <Chris> Then there‘s Shinedown where there's more bands then venchoose to do what I love regardless <Oliver> Yeah, a Shinedown tour ues. It‘s a strong rock community of what other people think. I do en- would be all that. that should've had a few national joy "commercial" rock, so some <Chris> Also Three Days Grace, breakouts by now. might think that we are trying to be Stone Sour, Disturbed…there is a lot of great bands that are in our <CV NW> Tell us about the pro- "radio friendly", but truly I am wheelhouse! I would love to tour making the kind of music I want to, cess, and the feeling you have and I don't care if it is what the with even OZZY! Before he packs when you’re holding a hardcopy it up! Just even a short leg tour! mainstream says it should be. of “After the Rain”. <Oliver> I think we‘re radio <Nate> We really look up to the <Oliver> Elation, Immensely Con- friendly...easily. There are no band Alter Bridge. That would tent. swear words in the songs. They probably be it for the group. But <Chris> Well from recording at have a solid pop formula writing to for me personally, U2 or Metallica Robert Lang‘s to One Shot Studios, some of them. "Dear Ra- would be an even more pie in the to mastering at RFI, to coming up dio......please notice us and listen. sky dream. with the cover art to the photo People still love rock music and shoot to the graphics…when I hold need radio formats too hear them <CV NW> Where are you in the a finalized copy of our debut album in. Enough with the four country journey of OGS? <Oliver> "Hanging on for dear life I feel relieved! Plain and simple… channels in every city". relief! Looking forward to the next <Nate> The thing is unless you with a smile". one though! make country, techno or indie <Chris> I‘d say we are in stage <Bobby> I could not be happier shout-folk music, you‘re not going two. Stage one I‘d say is releasing with the musical process that we to be radio friendly. We don‘t think a full album; stage two is doing formed as a group. We have a great we‘re way off in left field as far as video…we are starting to work on team/family outlook, and I am very appeal is concerned. But we just that as we speak! proud of our work on this album! want to be a rock band. It‘s the mu- <Bobby> We are still in the begin<Nate> There was about a week sic we love. We don‘t think that ning of our journey. Can't wait to where I stood back and felt proud eliminates an opportunity for gain- see what else we can do as a band! of the accomplishment of having ing an audience. Rock‘s not dead, <Nate> We are just trying to get better every day as a band and peran album. But to me, the album it‘s just under the radar. was always a means to an end, not <Chris> When someone says com- sonally as a guitarist. Sometimes the end itself. The hope is that the mercial, what does that mean? I the progress is slower than I‘d like, album is one of many, and that the believe we are commercial! It just but that‘s life. It‘s a fun process future ones are better. It is nice that needs to get out there more! More though.

I‘ve had something to give friends air time! When you are talking <CV NW> We’re halfway through and family. When you say you‘re

2013, what has been exciting so far, and what’s coming down the pike for the band? <Chris> 2013 has been a very exciting year! From the album being released, to radio airplay globally to our CD Release party! Very cool year for us thus far and it‘s not over yet! We have a lot of shows and events that are coming up for us still and look forward to each and every one! But I am really excited about touring! But will discuss that at a later time! <Nate> We have a few immediate goals. We‘re looking to get some exciting video content online soon.

And we‘ve already written about 20 songs that could make a second album. But the constraints on that are time and money, which for us are more limited than inspiration. But that‘s a good place to be I suppose, rather than the other way around. <Bobby> Recording the album was a great time, and we are getting ready to do more. I can't wait! Stay Bobby Znak - Vocals/ Rhythm Guitar tuned!

Chris “Wombat” Womble - Drums/Percussion <Oliver> Be prepared for "heavy new material that is more riff rock oriented and makes you want to bang Nate Bushmaker - Lead Guitar/Backing Vocals Oliver Spencer - Bass Guitar/Backing Vocals your head...in the sweetest way of course"

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Important Financial Information CV WorldWide offers some information on automobile loan terms... payment of $540. The finance charges over the life of How long should my car loan be?

When it comes to buying a car, most people the loan would be $2,115. have an idea of what monthly payments will fit their Contrast that with a seven-year loan. The inbudget, and that's what they target when they're mak- terest rate would be higher, according to Edmunds ing a deal. But this monthly payment mentality is data: 4.9 percent for loans of six to seven years in making car buyers lose track of the bigger picture: the 2012. It's common for longer loan terms to carry total cost of the car and the length of time it will take slightly higher interest rates. The monthly payment to pay it off. for a seven-year loan, $426, would be lower than for Edmunds data tells the story: For the past dec- the five-year loan. But the finance charges for the ade, the average car loan term has slowly crept past loan would be $5,548. That's more than twice that of five years, and is now close to five-and-a-half years. a five-year loan.

Thirty-eight percent of the auto loans in 2012 had It is easy to see how someone could be lured terms of five-and-a-half years to six years. And 12 by the appeal of the lower monthly payment afforded percent of the loans were for terms of six to seven by the longer loan. A buyer would "save" $114 per years. month in car payments, but in the long run he would "Consumers are battling two things," says the pay $3,433 more in interest than if he'd chosen the director of automotive credit at Experian. They are five-year loan. Plus, he'll have two more years of car trying to get a good interest rate and a reasonable payments. monthly payment. But sometimes the five-year loan has a monthly payment that is too high for them, and Negative Equity A new car typically depreciates about 22 perthey end up financing for a longer term, even if it cent in its first year. At the beginning of a car loan, costs them more down the line.

Is there any benefit to having a seven-year car the buyer is typically "upside down," or "under waloan? Aside from having a lower monthly payment, ter," meaning he owes more than the car is worth. no. In fact, there are many reasons why you shouldn't The situation is made worse if the buyer hasn't made a large enough down payment. Based on Edmunds choose such a long car loan term. data, most people aren't making a big enough down Higher Interest Costs The longer you finance a car, the more interest you will have to pay on it. Edmunds recommends a five-year loan, less if you can manage it. Here's how the numbers look when you compare a five-year loan to a seven-year loan.

We chose a 2013 Honda Accord Sedan EX-L V6 with navigation for our example. Its True Market Value (TMV®) is roughly the same as the average price of a new car in 2012. Edmunds data shows that the average down payment in 2012 was $3,435. We entered those numbers in our loan calculators. After tax, title and the down payment, the total amount to be financed is $30,266.

The average interest rate for a four-and-a-half to five-year loan in 2012 was 2.69 percent, according to Edmunds data. That person would have a monthly

without car payments and have the freedom to sell the car whenever they want.

Low Resale Value Resale value is another reason to steer clear of extra-long car loans. A five-year-old car is more desirable and more valuable in the used-car marketplace than a seven-year-old vehicle.

At five years, a car has lost about 55 percent of its new-car value, says Edmunds director of remarketing. A seven-year-old car has depreciated by about 68 percent.

In other words, the Accord in our example will be worth roughly $14,787 after five years. It drops to $10,515 at the seven-year mark. payment to keep from being upside down longer than A dealership will likely give you more money necessary. for the five-year-old car. At that age, it's a great canThe time it takes you to get "above water" and didate for the certified-pre-owned process, which build equity in the car will vary, based on the car you means the dealer will have a more valuable car to bought and how much of a down payment you've sell. made. But one thing doesn't vary: the longer your car On the other hand, a seven-year-old car is right loan, the longer it will take you to build equity. on the edge of no longer being an acceptable CPO When you have no equity in the car, you can't car. Further, if it has too many miles, it won't qualify. sell if it you need the money in an emergency: if your That means you will get far less for the car as a tradeother bills get out of hand or you lose your job, for in. example. It also gives you fewer options if you get tired of the vehicle. A buyer will only pay you what Common Sense Alternatives Let's say you want to buy a new car, but the the car is worth, not what you owe on it. You're stuck monthly payments that are being quoted for the usual with the balance of the loan.

Similarly, if you get into an accident and the five-year loan are too high for you. That may be a car is totaled, the insurance company will only pay sign that you're shopping outside of your price range.

Stick to cars at the lower end of your range you what the car is worth at the time of the accident.

The remainder of what you owe will have to come and you should be in good shape. Once you have an idea of what you can afford, make sure you get preout of your pocket. approved for your car loan before heading out to the dealer.

Car Fatigue We love our cars when they are brand-new, You also could consider buying a used car. Inbut when romance fades, we're anxious to trade them terest rates are a bit higher for used cars, but since the in for something else. The average trade-in age for a cars cost less, there's less to finance and the payments car in 2012 was 5.9 years: It's not what you'd call an will be lower. enduring relationship.

If you have a seven-year loan and get the itch Final Tip to buy a new car around the average six-year mark, While it is important to know what you can you'll have to wait another year to buy. The other al- afford in terms of monthly car payments, that shouldternative is to roll the balance of the loan into your n't be your only measurement of a good car loan. next car purchase. And that's a bad idea, adding up to Take a look at all the numbers in the sales contract so an even longer loan commitment and higher monthly that you are fully aware of what you are paying for payments. the car.

Contrast this situation with buyers who've chosen a five-year loan. At the average trade-in mark of 5.9 years, they have already enjoyed almost a year

Turning old instruments

into art!

Terry has now expanded Instrument Art is some- have. He is currently working thing Terry at Guinner on a Mandolin Jewelry Box, a his repertoire to include differGraphix has been doing for custom base for a member of ent instruments, everything years for many people that the all-female band Zepparel- from mandolins to guitars of have a love for instru- la, a commemorative CV all kinds, making custom pic ments. Terry has found, since WorldWide guitar, and some- guards and head stock art. He being back in California, body even asked him to do is constantly on the go, workthat local music stores have a something with their pi- ing with different vendors and endless source of instruments ano! He can make a piece of personalities to generate great to bring back to life. He will furniture out of an unusable or art pieces, many for charities. personalize your drums, gui- unwanted instruments, he does Terry is also the nicest guy in the room, always willing to tars, and any instrument you it all. help people out

To contact Terry, visit:

www.Drumiture.com

Terry‘s hope has always been to work with many wonderful people in many creative and unique ways, and in accomplishing that he is living his dream. He loves to save vintage or valuable drums in any way, using them to make individual, personal, one-of-akind pieces, his skill and perfection borne of his love of drums and art. Saving drums, meeting great people, helping those in need, and creating some very unique drum furniture is, to Terry, his life‘s calling, and one can see the passion and skill in his work.

In Terry‘s words; ―to be able to save these drums and unwanted instruments or cherished mementos and see the appreciative faces of the people for whom I have made them is what truly makes me happy. I‘m excited to say that Drumiture has many new clients contacting me daily, and the donations of numerous unwanted instruments, which I see as ‗unfinished art‘, is helping me make my dream come true.‖

Brandi

Oleander/Track Fighter @ Ace Of Spades in Sacramento, CA

by Jeffrey Easton

This month we take a slight left hand turn from our normal top notch interviews from Metal Exiles and give you a concert review...Jeffrey took to the Ace of Spades in Sacramento, CA to attend the Oleander show, with opening act Track Fighter...

Finally, rock heroes in the Before Oleander hit the form of Oleander were back and stage, their heir to the Sac throne back with a vengeance. Their new took command of the festivities, record, Something Beautiful, is an and that band is Track Fighter. amazing piece of work and they Armed with a nasty EP in the form were debuting it here at Ace Of of Revenge they bludgeoned the Spades in their hometown of Sac- fans until they could take no more. ramento. Its always great when T.J. Chopelas is the ring leader the hometown boys make good, with the microphone (and megaand one of the best examples of phone for that matter) and he that is Oleander. Not only do they owned the crowd, bringing the have an impressive body of work, crowd into their world as he sang their new album adds substantially in desperation. Whipping out mato that and the title track is sure to terial like L.A., Revenge and be a rock staple for years to come. Change The World they informed those who were present that they will not back down and will own the rock world. If these guys do not make it something is indeed sion on the record but it is solid wrong with rock’s ears. from first note to last. The show Oleander, holy shit, they are broke open in a big way as their really back. After dealing subse- oversized “video producer” came quent records that put the music out to introduce the band amongst world on their ear they took a laughs and screams and then we break, clear their minds and get on had them, Oleander, and they with their lives. Now that they caused a frenzy. Fight, the heavy have put it back together they re- as nails track from Something grouped, wrote and recorded what Beautiful, was the first salvo ofis their best album to date with fered from the band and the fans Something Beautiful. The title screamed bloody murder. Just as track alone was worth the admis- quickly as the fans get a taste of

as Flowers has complete control of and Never Too late were offered up the crowd and that’s when he said to massive fan reaction. This was “we have a new single” and AOS an amazing night for hard rock erupted because they knew they with the kings of the Sac throne were going to play the title track, giving to the fans once more and Something Beautiful. This cut is receiving massive airplay and the fans knew every word as they screamed along to Thomas’s every word.

One of the better moments was hands Of The Wheel from Joyride. An amazing track from a straight forward rock album and what was supposed to be a final salute from with a successful album burning the band. They went further back the charts, many more times to with the massive fan favorites Why come. the new record they hit the past I’m Here and I Walk Alone as well hard with stand out tracks Don’t as Halo and Unwind. They burned Break My Fall and the personal through more cuts from the new Down When I’m Loaded. By now record because you know they the band is firing hard and Thom- have to and want to so Daylight Official Oleander Site

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F AM ILY DO G S N EW L IF E SH E L TE R 9 1 01 S E S t a nl ey A ven u e P o rt l a n d, O re go n 9 72 0 6 5 0 3- 7 7 1- 5 5 9 6 w w w .f a m i l y do gs n ew l if e .o rg THIS SPACE DONATED BY CV NORTHWEST MAGAZINE

F AM ILY DO G S N EW L IF E SH E L TE R 9 1 01 S E S t a nl ey A ven u e P o rt l a n d, O re go n 9 72 0 6

D o n at i n g t o F am i l y D o g s F a m i l y Do g s New L i f e i s a 5 0 1 c 3 n on pr of i t o r ga ni za t i on su p p ort e d so l el y by ou r ad o pt i o n f e es a n d by d on a t i on s f r om t h e pub l i c.

W e re ce i v e n o t a x do l l ar s a nd ar e n ot af f i l i a t e d w i t h a n y ot h er c ou nt y sh el t er or h u m a ne so ci e t y . It ’ s c os t s j u st o ve r $ 1 0, 00 0 p e r m o nt h t o o pe ra t e o ur s h el t er a n d w e rel y on y o ur do n at i o ns t o m a ke t hi s po ssi bl e . Y ou r d o n at i o n t o F am i l y D o gs N ew Li f e S he l t e r g o es di re ct l y t o h el pi n g u s s av e as m an y l i v es a s po ssi bl e .

THIS SPACE DONATED BY CV NORTHWEST MAGAZINE

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Gear the Pros Use!

When asked about my philosophy in drumming or my approach to drumming, I always like to share a few things that I think are most important.

I think the most important thing is the song. For a drummer, complementing a song can be a difficult task.

Human nature makes you want to shine as an individual and I think a lot of musicians try to shine by showboating their skills in the wrong places.

I think the vocals are the highlight of most songs and a drummer should never do anything to drown out a vocal part.

It is very easy to do too many drum fills as well. I try to use drum fills to bridge the verses and choruses and also for entering and/or exiting the middle eight section of a song. I don't always do this, but it is my goal.

I also think a drummers meter is important. As drummers we are always going to fluctuate here and there but the timing in a song can make it or break it. Keep in mind we are only human and it is very easy to race in a song when performing live. Using a click when you practice is very important. I find it to be a great tool in making me a more focused drummer.

Drums Mapex Saturn Series - Birch shells lined with maple interior Clear black laquer finish over wood grain Snares Mapex Saturn - 6x14 - Birch/Maple Pearl Session Custom - 6x14 Maple Pearl Steel Piccolo - 3x13 Pearl Steel - 7x14 Toms 8x8 - Rack Tom-tom 8x10 - Rack Tom-tom 8x12 - Rack Tom-tom 8x13 - Rack Tom-tom 14x14 - Floor Tom 16x16 - Floor Tom 16 - Roto Tom 20x22 - Bass Drum Cymbals HH - 13 - Zildjian A Custom Projection Chinas - 4x's - 12, 12, 14, 15 - Zildjian Splashes - 3x's - 6, 10, 12 - Zildjian Crashes - 4x's - 15, 15, 16, 18 - Zildjian K Series Ride - 20 - Zildjian Hardware/Accessories LP Latin Percussion Cowbells 3x's Toca Wood Blocks 3x's Gibraltar Rack Mapex Hardware DW-5000 Double Kick Pedal Pearl Eliminator Double Kick Pedal Roc -n- Soc Throne Pro-Mark 747 Drumsticks - Hickory/Oak Remo Emperor Drum Heads/Tom toms/Kick Drum Remo Coated Power Stroke Drum Heads/Snares

I also think power drumming and finesse drumming are crucial to a song, and combining the two is important.

Two of the greatest examples of Power and Finesse playing in Rock drumming would have to be John Henry Bonham and Alex Van Halen.

Well, there you have it. This is only my opinion and a few of my approaches to drumming. You can always learn from others so pay attention to every drummer you hear. You can learn what TO do as well as what NOT to do.

In conclusion, It's all about the song, not the individual musician, NEVER take away from the song.

OWEN BRYANT, drummer for Electro_Nomicon P.S. I also think it is important to have two drum kits: one large kit and one small kit. Trading off on different types of drum set ups is a great way to develop new techniques.

Keep in mind, without passion, you have nothing!!!!!!!

Thanks for having me in this issue of CV Northwest, Always a pleasure. Peace, Out!

E_N is with No Remorse Records and sponsored by High Voltage Music, Valholl Brewing, Finger’s Duke Design Studio, & Rocket Queen Promotions.

Gear the Pros Use! ‗JT‘ is a classic ‗Jack of all trades‘ guitarist who hustles the spectrum of rock, blues and country music. ―I grew up a rocker, did time in jazz college, but drifted over into the blues and Americana. I teach cool kids and usually play with 3 to 5 bands at a time, as much as possible. I get to carry an electric guitar to work everyday, instead of a briefcase… boo ya‖!

Jason is not only an excellent and versatile musician, he‘s a friend and used to be my guitar instructor. He was a great teacher, and the fact that the Pres is kind of crappy at playing guitar is in NO WAY due to Jason‘s ability, but mostly my laziness and sloth. I miss our fun lessons!

Guitars: 1995 American Fender Stratocaster. (Sunshine) Texas Special neck, Seymour Duncan JB Jr. middle, stock bridge. People give me crap ‗cause I have a humbucker in the middle, but it gives the out-of-phase positions a bolder and louder tone. I set the bridge to float pretty high with a short bar ‗cause I use my whammy a lot. Mmm… whammy bar!

1994 Epiphone Sheraton II. (Shirley) Gibson P-94 neck, DiMarzio PAF bridge. Middle is a delicious blend. Sperzel tuners. Both of my main guitars I set up to have as wide of a range between bright and dark tones as possible. Versatility!

Amps: Fender Super Sonic – 60w, 1x12‖ combo, JJ tubes - The original with 2 clean channels (Vibrolux & Bassman), and a burn channel that is extremely flexible, from classic bluesy to high gain, and lead boost. I LOVE this amp!

Fender Prosonic – 60w, 2x10‖ combo, JJ tubes - Has one of the loudest and full clean channels I have ever heard, drives pedals great. Has a higher gain distortion that makes this a killer rock amp. I can set it next to any half stack, and it always keeps up! For bigger gigs, I run both amps in stereo. It‘s like a love seat of tone!

Effects: Pedaltrain deck – Crybaby, Ibanez TS9, Fulltone OCD, ZVex Box of Rock, Boss EQ, Danelectro Dan-Echo, Boss Tremolo, Boss Super Shifter.

Strings: Ernie Ball Slinky (10-46) Picks: Dunlop .71mm. Purple alligators! I like the texture…

Jason ‘JT’ Thomas – currently with: Franco Paletta & the Stingers - Blues L‘ Eighties Nite – 80‘s dance Sons A Bitches – Country/Rockabilly Myrrh Larsen – Art pop

T W O

F O R

T H E

P R I C E

O F

O N E...

Identical twins Jenni and Amanda Price have been singing together since the age of 3, a journey that has led them to a full time career in music. They have travelled the US through 47 states and over 170 cities, and in 2013 have have a packed touring schedule including festivals up and down the west coast, wineries through-out Oregon and Washington and plans to tour to Europe. They play as a duo, trio and their full 5 piece band wowing audiences all over the world.

The Pres had a chance to chat with the front-women of AM, but didn’t even attempt to tell them apart...they are passionate about their music and a joy to speak with...

artists over the years, the most recent group came together from a brutal transition and having to face the harsh reality we may need players that we had never met! <Jenni> We had released 5 CD‘s under Acoustic Minds and each CD was completely different.

We found ourselves in the summer of 2010 band-less, and ready for a change; being big electronic music heads we had a dream of bringing those elements to our show with live instrumentation.

We went on a search (actually an audition process), seeking a keyboardist, where our guitarist had been and a new bass player with more electronic wompy bass skills. <Jenni> We were turned on to many incredible players but felt the best fit with Aaron and Josh. At the <CVWW> Tell us about the evolution of AM, of put- time we were working with a stellar drummer Chris Matthews who had been with us two years prior and ting together THIS lineup. seen the transition and vision of where we wanted to <Jenni> Amanda and I have performed many differtake the music and was not afraid to embrace the new ent genres as Acoustic Minds. We started off as a with us. duo, then trio acoustic act, mostly playing open mics, 2012 was a tough year for all of us, change coffee shops, small venues and bars. was imminent and with that, we had to say good bye Thru the years we have transitioned thru many to Chris our drummer and hello to new drummer, styles; blues, jazz, R&B, rock, down tempo, we‘ve Josh Burns, a utility man of all trades. He played a done it all, but we‘ve always had this sense of not live kit, but was able to incorporate his electronic pad reaching our full potential or true sound. and with being a DJ had all the mixing skills we were <Amanda> We have played with tons of different in need of to really blow the lid off our new sound. <CVWW> Tell us who’s in the band and their role. The band focuses around the ladies, but let’s also give props to the boys in the band.

Amanda Price singer, songwriter, guitarist, momma bear Jenni Price singer, songwriter, ukulele player, mob boss Aaron Altemose singer, songwriter, keyboardist, producer, womp maker Josh Lorenzen bass guru, space inhibitor, portal creator Josh Burns drums, electric drum pad, hair flipper professional, animated maniac

In July of 2012 we released our 6th album, your spouse and best friends but never really know Electric Sol, with a sense of rebirthing that WAS what it takes. It takes a special group of people who Acoustic Minds to the NEW AM. We still brought can both work and play in an efficient manner. We the elements of RnB and pop to the music but now have built a relationship that allows us to be close like there was a definite electronic current flowing thru us family, but also bust out the hard stuff when it‘s and showing with the music being written. needed. I think this is the number one reason why we <Amanda> It‘s been a beautiful journey and work well. We love each other whole heartedly as throughout it we have found our true musical voices. well as respect each other‘s time enough to keep most Each person brings a little flavor to the group. of the emotional BS that comes with that type of rela<Josh L> The twins have had this group going for tionship out of the picture. quite some time. The direction of their music wasn't <Aaron> We all have a similar ear for music. Since I something that I would have normally been drawn to, joined this group, we've progressively changed over but I ended up falling in love with their personalities the years from the twin‘s folk-like pop sound to a first. I moved to Portland in hopes of finding better new hybrid of dance and electro-pop with all of us. music opportunities. I was introduced to the twins via The transition felt right for all of us. Forming a band a mutual friend and the rest was history. I was open to and then sustaining it is by no means an easy task. new things, and I knew that regardless of the type of We have our differing opinions and don't almusic, I wanted to play with them. We instantly got ways see eye to eye, but at the end of the day we'd along and in a matter of a few months or so we start- rather over communicate and speak our minds. It‘s ed collaborating on our ideas and the music grew into sometimes messy but It‘s worked for us for many something I loved. years. <CVWW> What do you think it is about this group that works so well? <Jenni> There are soo many things about the group that work well.

First, we are all so different, I bring the soul, and grit of R&B with a sexy electronic power woman vibe.

Amanda brings more of a folk, raw, rock lyrical emotional style to our songs.

Aaron, brings classical piano and string instrumentation crossed with synth and wompy bass elements, as well as an incredible ear for producing, songwriting, singing and engineering most of our recordings to date.

Josh Lorenzen brings the wall of sound bass, with his new instruments the KORG and NOVATION he is quickly proving to be a dynamic duo to Aaron in the creating and mixing process.

Josh Burns, being seasoned in every genre, <CVWW> Any special process or cool info about touches on the rock, dubstep, trap styles bringing where the name came from? tasty new sounds to every song Together we literally have such a wide back- <Amanda> Acoustic Minds came from the raw form ground that brings out a goody bag assortment of of acoustic music. It‘s hard to put into words that genres crammed together on a beautiful canvas that is feeling when you see a live band and the tone of the AM. music just grabs you. You call it goose bumps, hair <Josh L> Playing music with close friends can be a standing up on the back of your neck, whatever it is, challenge. We all love to hang out with our friends it‘s magic. We never wanted to lose that quality in and jam. People love the idea of being in a band with our music. So with the evolution we still bring that

feel inspired when you are close with 4 others that are equally as passionate as you. The ideas really never stop flowing, and come from every direction. <Aaron> I know that I have difficulty with "down time," so I find melodies and lyrics mainly when I'm driving. I'm typically blasting a track with no vocals with the windows down and in that split second, between stoplight and freeway, a melody or a catchy hook comes to mind. Other times, it‘s completely organic and we have locked ourselves in the band's practice space. One of the Josh's finds a new sound or groove, and a song takes shape. ...my heart will beat, in extreme pain, love, or lust...it is the strongest organ in my body...loving with every ounce of me...

<CVWW> Who are your musical influences? <Amanda> I am a huge Joni Mitchell fan! Love her, element but we have made anthems. It‘s all about but that was in my youth more. Now I listen to a lot anthem music and creating that passion in each live of independent artists. One of my favorites is our hoperformance. This year we are using the abbreviated mie from the bay Hopscotch. She has it and it inform of our name a lot more, like dance ‗til the spires me to hear her electronic soul explode. Music ―AM‖! is in a wonderful space right now. We are just riding the wave. <CVWW> What do you think appeals to your fans <Josh L> ENDLESS… I listen to different types of music daily based off of mood. I don't discriminate most about your music? <Josh L> The diversity of genres covered. We play any kind of music, and appreciate it all. If it feels electronic music, but switch it up every song. Having good, I'm listening. members that are all from different backgrounds allows us to keep coming up with an original sound. If I <CVWW> Being twins (many people would say were our fan I‘d appreciate the originality of the “duplicates”), what part of your personality do group. While at the same time realize the similarities each of you bring to the music of AM? between AM's and modern music. <Amanda> Although we are twins and very similar, <Amanda> I think our fans love our music because we are still so very different. Jenni is a power house. it‘s powerful. It has a message and it grabs your heart Get her in the right space and she will make anything and may caress, stroke or pummel it. Either way it‘s happen. I am more soft and subtle. When we write unique and full of emotion. sometimes we write for each other. Sometimes we don‘t even plan it, it just works out that way. <CVWW> Where does the inspiration to write music come from? <CVWW> Tell us about a typical AM show, how do <Amanda> My inspiration to write comes from my the fans react to the music? How do you want day to day life. them to feel? <Aaron> Yes, life is a big inspiration. I guarantee <Jenni> A typical AM show generally starts off with there's never a dull moment between the 5 of us and us as a trio, (Jenni, Amanda and Aaron) our lives.

We give the audience a taste of three part har<Amanda> I tend to write about never giving up on monies, warm them up with a bit of synth and dash of the people you love and staying strong in this crazy pop. As the show goes on we try to tell a story with world. Keeping your dreams in the forefront is the each song that is like turning the page to your favorite key to manifesting the life you want! I believe you story…each song has a specific meaning that carries can be anything you set your mind to. thru to the next. <Josh L> We obviously love what we do, and are The fans generally react with shock and awe at excited to try new things. It makes it really easy to first and after a few songs we get them moving which

doesn‘t seem to stop until we are done with our set! <Amanda> Our shows can be pretty epic. The fans don‘t really know what to do at first. There is lots of staring and then they hear the WOMP and can‘t help but shake something. That‘s my goal to get them move-move-moving! <Jenni> These songs have come from such an emotional place deep down inside each of us, and if we can touch someone that is listening where they feel that, then our job feels done.. it feels complete. It‘s such a rush. <CVWW> Tell us about a one of your most memorable shows. <Amanda> My most memorable shows happen when we have no expectations. Those can be tricky and it seems like the best space can come from incredible sound and maybe a mediocre crowd. It doesn‘t always have to be the most packed show that creates the best space. I would probably choose one of our many shows at the Oregon Country Fair if I had to pick one. The space there is so beautiful and the people are manifesting their lives right in front of us. It‘s nothing short of magic.

<CVWW> How hard was it to make the first album, tell us about the challenges and the feeling of satisfaction when you are holding that CD in your hands. <Jenni> The first album (or 6th album) seemed like an eternity to get finished, although the tracking and recording was a quick three days out in Washougal at THE FARM RECORDING STUDIOS, the mixing and editing of the tracks were literally pulled out hair by hair, if that makes sense.

Let me go back and say, we were in a Battle of the Bands competition for the entire year of 2011. We <CVWW> AM has been around since 2002, how do competed thru 7 different battles to be crowned the you keep it going, how do you stay motivated af- winner December 28th, 2011. With that title we were awarded a day in a studio and a professional music ter your success? <Jenni> AM HAS been around a loooong time…I‘m video. We were stoked! Ilko Major, owner and enginot gonna lie, it is tough sometimes to stay motivated. neer at THE FARM RECORDING STUDIOS, donated his time to us and we busted out 6 songs in 3 days!

You do not always feel supported or loved by your He was a dream to work with and the studio was the peers (being artists surrounding you) or family and friends. We always joke we will have our greatest hits real deal!

It was quite the feat, and I‘m sure Ilko gained album out before being ―discovered‖. some grey hairs thru the process, but we are eternally <Amanda> After many moons performing I think the change of music as well as the varying artists we lend grateful for his time and work with us! Aaron, our our backing vocals to create a unique and ever grow- keyboardist, also took on the role of mixing. ing motivation. It‘s like if I get burned out on AM songs Jen and I go tour with Jah Sun (reggae) or Marv Ellis (hiphop) or Lafa Taylor (trip dance/dub).

It‘s amazing to think we have such a ‗jukebox‖ arsenal. That keeps it fresh and writing with the band is so fun. My sis and I LOVE creating new music. <Jenni> When I think about it, it truly IS the support from our family, friends and fans that keeps us motivated…AND the music of course. My sis said it perfectly and I think about this a lot ―music is like our life raft in the ocean (LIFE) and each song we write is just one more floaty closer to shore.‖

This would mean countless hours of work, edits and starting from scratch many a time until we were satisfied with the final product just WEEKS before the CD was due to be released; it literally was like birthing a child, growing pains, deep breathing, and lots of love and hugs to each other to get thru it.

But the pure satisfaction of hearing the final product and feeling that CD in our hands was well worth it.

We had an excellent CD release in Portland July 2012 at the Star Theater to 200 of our closest friends and from there the CD just took off into the sky.

<Jenni> For me, so many of my songs speak to me on a personal level…being one of the major writers in the group, many of these songs were constructed and written from my personal experiences. ―Say When‖ for example; my sis, Aaron and I wrote about the struggles and hopes of making our dreams a reality. Amanda and I took the plunge and quit our day jobs in August of 2008 and this song truly reflects the sheer will and determination of telling yourself every day you can and WILL make it. I picture this song relating to anyone with a dream, that young child who says ―Mommy, I want to be a prin<CVWW> Any of cess, ballerina, paintyour songs speak er, singer, photograto you on a personpher, artist, doctor, al level? teacher, when I <Josh L> I think grow up‖ you name that lyrics can be init and it shall be, the terpreted in an endpossibilities are endless amount of ways. less when it comes Obvious themes in to our dreams…and songs can narrow we are living proof ones interpretation that with hard work down to a point, but and dedication they it doesn't stop there. can come true.

I can relate with all ―My Life‖ of our songs in a was written sort of way, but don't necesas my Mary J. song, sarily think I'm feelit was as if I was ing the same thing telling anyone the writer is. It‘s all (haters, lovers) that up for grabs. If you this is me, a natural can relate to a few woman, who was words or lines, or raised and living exeven the whole track, actly as she should then it more than and not afraid to saclikely spoke to you. rifice even what was They all speak to right for her hopes me. and dreams. This song moves me in a way that when <Amanda> Right now a song called ―Not Giving Up‖ is speaking to me. I am newly single and I think I sing it I feel charged or powered up if you will, and the important thing to remember about loving some- ready to face anything. I hope other women are inspired to take their dreams to the next level and make one and creating space together is that even with space apart that love can still live. Bringing it back to them their everyday reality. ―Denial‖ was more an emotional letdown that not giving up on the people you love no matter the had happened to my sis and me in early 2011, we cost. This song tears at my heart strings and was written from a super dark place but it also reminds me were literally traumatized over losing a friendship and could only express how we truly felt thru song.

I can withstand ANYTHING! Many musicians will relate to this, as sometimes we

cannot tell others how we really feel and music can writer and even wrote a short story that was pretty then turn to therapy and healing for us. I remember it good… started out as NANANANA‘s thru out the entire <Jenni> It was excellent! song, like telling this person NO NO don‘t leave. The <Amanda> Thank you! I also went to college to words literally created themselves. teach. ―Beautiful Night‖ was written at Oregon Country Fair 2011 at the midnight jamtastic set with <CVWW> How did you gravitate to this type of Reeble Jar at Reefer Camp. My sis and I were the music – described by you as “soul & new millast artists to come to the stage to ―jam‖ there was a lennium dance pop”? crowd of over 2,000 beautiful faces shining and smil- <Jenni> This style has been in our brains and veins ing right at us…I instantly heard the words in my since we were about 20 years old… many, many head. There were a billion stars in the sky the vibe moons ago. was so high, literally. The words just came out, ―It‘s a <CV WW> HAH! 20 years old wasn’t that long beautiful night, I can see all your faces shining so ago…except for old coots like me. bright we got something for you, can you feel it, can <Jenni> I remember wanting to spin drum and bass you feel it!‖ The crowd went wild!! It was one of the and be the first woman to sing soul music over it, best shows I can remember to date, I still get chills shortly after Aphrodite, Kosheen, & Sonique broke when I think back. It was an energy current flowing out in the underground dance scene. I never gave up; off each person and swelling to the stage like a huge it may‘ve taken a while to find the right fit, but I bewave! lieve this is the right fit for the music we want to create… <CVWW> Where have you found the rowdiest fans? <CVWW> How often do you play the “twin trick” <Jenni> There are rowdy fans everywhere!! I‘d like with people, switching up identities? to say our hometown is the rowdiest but honestly <Jenni> HAHA ok this twin question gets asked a there are many places that can compare, Eugene allot. ways shows us so much love, LA and Austin have given us tremendous outpours of encouragement and <CV WW> …and now just one more time…. <Jenni> We have NEVER played the twin trick, as rowdiness, so to speak… kids and teens we looked SO alike that many could never tell us apart. We were also interested in differ<CVWW> You’ve been singing together since you ent things, ie; I took Spanish, Amanda took French, I were 3, did I read that right? Over the years, have was great in math, she was excellent in writing. There you also sung solo for a spell? would have been no hope for us to switch classes as <Jenni> Yes since we were little 3 year old girls at we were never on the same exhilarated path. :) church for the Greater Gresham Kids choir.

Being a twin is all I know, many ask what it is We really have never sung solo. I mean we like and I ask what is it like not to be a twin? sing our own songs on stage so I guess that counts, It‘s like having a best friend (and sometimes but up until this year we have always sung together… enemy) right by your side, never being alone, always having someone to rely on that knows you better than <CVWW> Have you both always been interested you know yourself. in making music, or were (are?) there other inSinging with my twin is the most special gift terests? and I feel so blessed to be able to share a stage and <Jenni> I think I have always known this was my the moments of song with her. Sometimes I find mypath, my mom says since I was 4 years old I was tell- self writing parts that sound like Amanda - I‘m like ing her I was going to be a big star. I know my sister ―wait a second I can‘t even sing that high‖ and it it took a little bit of convincing to get her on the same sounds JUST like Amanda…that trips me out, how page; she was shy as a child and teen and music real- different yet alike we both are. It is just special and I ly broke her out of her shell! am so thankful to have my best friend and sister apart <Amanda> There was a time when I wanted to be a of this journey, of expressing our passions thru music

and hopefully motivating others to do the same.

Oh, and NO boy tricks either, we both have SUCH different taste in men! NO way! Ewww!

sippi Studios and a European tour in the works, we can only go up from here!

<CVWW> What are the big plans for the rest of the <CVWW> 2009, Portland Music Awards, AM is vot- year? Where can people find you on tour? ed “Band of the Year”...how does that validate all <Jenni> Fall/Winter of 2012-2013 present have been busy-busy with 5 successful tours to Southern Caliyour hard work? <Jenni> Ok, the 2009 PMA was insane and awesome fornia, 12 showcases in Austin at SXSW, and a sponand totally unexpected. I remember thinking that title sorship from Chipotle! Our music was selected for was gonna get us so far, but really it is just an award Women of Substance Radio and they are currently playing 3 of the 6 EP tracks in weekly rotation as on our mantle at home and hasn‘t changed us as a whole at all. It felt validating that the fans and friends well as one of our live tracks from the Live from the got behind us and voted us ―Band of the Year‖ but it Living Room album! Plus we have 16 new songs written and recorded. just made us realize how much harder we needed to <Amanda> AM is on the lookout for a booking comwork. It pushed us to break out of the blues, rock, pany. We have always done all of this on our own jazz box and into outer space. and 2013 is about creating the TEAM to get us to that <CVWW> Did you feel as though you’ve “made it” next level. 2000 Thir-TEAM, that‘s our anthem!

Next big show is Aaron‘s solo album release with that award? You’ve been putting out great as well as AM‘s new single release ―Love Somemusic since, it seems as though you are not restbody‖, it‘s going to be at Mississippi Studios July ing on your laurels.

3rd!! Marv Ellis is coming to play too with his new <Jenni> Definitely do NOT feel like we‘ve made it band!! Jen and I will of course sing with everyone yet. We are on our way and on the right track, but that night! there are many things we need to get our team more <Jenni> Photo Shoots, Music Videos, Single Release solid. We are on the hunt for a good manager, PR Tour thru out the West Coast, European Tour to properson, booking agent, and a label behind us for dismote the new release, possible showcases at NXNE tribution - especially in the electronic, soul, woman in Toronto, CA and showcases down in LA for fronted vein.

FALL. <CVWW> You’ve been favorably compared to You can always keep up to date with us at Lauryn Hill & Bonnie Raitt, does that intimidate www.acousticmindsmusic.com you? Those are big shoes to fill... <Jenni> When we read that review in regards to beLike us at www.facebook.com/acousticmindsmusic ing compared to Lauryn Hill and Bonnie Raitt this Add us on twitter at www.twitter.com/acousticminds was of course a HUGE compliment. My influences are very much these woman so for people to hear them in our voices was the best! Sure, I admit it was definitely intimidating but awesome to know others heard what I love so much about these woman in our voices. <CVWW> Where do you feel you are in the “journey” of Acoustic Minds? <Jenni> I feel we are at just the beginning of our journey with AM. It‘s been a bumpy ride, but I think we have smoothed out the kinks and are on the right track to some big opportunities. With our Single Release party scheduled for July 3rd in PDX at Missis-

ASE Certified Master Rick McDonald offers his advice on YOUR questions...

I just replaced my front brake pads and rear brake shoes and now i have a horrible grinding sound. What could be causing this? I removed both rear drums and made sure that they were centered and it is still making the grinding sound. I’m at a loss on what to do now. Any help would be very much appreciated.

Grinding sound after brake replacement? Well it does not say if the rotors and drums were resurfaced, can you tell which end of the car the grinding noise is coming from? If you can tell which end I would look very closely for any signs of metal to metal contact. I do not know what kind of car you are driving but I have herd grinding type noises come from the rear brakes on some of the late eighties to nineties GM mid-size with drum rear brakes, especially when cold and in damp climates. I have thought it was possibly moisture in the brake shoes because after a few applications the noise is greatly diminished. All that being said a really close visual inspection including removal of the brake pads if needed is warranted. The most common types of brake materiel are organic, metallic and ceramic. Sometimes the type of pads can add to noise issues be sure you are using what is correct for your application. I hope this helps.

My car gets stuck at 2000 rpms when driving. If you gas it hard it is fine. If you let off the gas and ease in to it it gets stuck there again. Doesn’t shake runs good just gets stuck at 2000 rpms.

The car still accelerates when stuck but to get it to go over 2000 rpms you have to punch it.

I am sorry but I need a lot more information; what kind of car are we working on, is it carbureted, is it fuel injected, what year. The reason is some cars use linkage or a cable to control a carburetor or throttle body. Now quite often there is no direct connection to the throttle body, acceleration is electronically controlled using a sensor to measure accelerator pedal position then the computer controls the throttle opening, so to be fair this can be somewhat simple or quite complex and need some sophisticated equipment to test. If you can tell me the car or truck I will see what I can do.

My husband disconnected the AC in the car and after that, for about a month I was hearing strange soft squealing/humming noises. The other day he went to start it and the main belt snapped. It was shredded. He went, got another belt and that shredded after running 15 seconds. Any suggestions?

When you say he disconnected the a/c what method did he use; unplug the compressor or get a shorter belt and re-route the system? Anyway I do not think the a/c removal was the cause of the belt failure, most likely something is failing in the pulley system causing either misalignment or some pulley has stopped moving which should be very easy to check. If you can see all the devices operating on this belt look to see if they are in alignment and the if you can by hand turn each one make sure they move freely it may be the a/c compressor that is the trouble. I hope this helps to assist you in your diagnosis, good luck.

We can all agree, it‘s a tough world out there, the economy is sluggish, incomes are down, unemployment is too high; we‘ve all felt the pinch. Many of us, when it comes time to purchase a new vehicle for the family, are now thinking about used/pre-owned vehicles rather than brand new ones. And in response, many automobile manufacturers have introduced ―CPO‖ programs, or ―Certified Pre-Owned‖, ostensibly to indicate a vehicle that meets the manufacturer‘s criteria for quality in a used vehicle.

This month we examine the question of whether CPO is good for you.

costly and time-consuming.

Then manufacturers decided the time had come, and automakers came up with the idea of having dealers inspect and repair trade-ins before reselling them, but with an added bonus that made the venture worthwhile — dealers would inspect and repair the cars out of their own pocket, and the factory would then offer a warranty on these "certified" preowned cars.

There are differences to understand among certified used cars. There are certified pre-owned factorybacked programs and certified pre-owned dealerbacked programs. The biggest difference is that factory-backed programs offer a warranty that's backed by the factory at no cost to you, while with dealerWhen is buying a certified pre-owned car the certified programs you usually have to buy an extendright thing for you? To decide, you first need ed warranty from the dealer to ensure coverage. to understand the differences among used cars. "'Factory-backed' also means they are warranOlder cars that are traded in when a new one is tied at any dealership selling the same brand anypurchased become part of a dealer's used-car where in the country," said the president of CNW fleet and, as a rule, the dealer keeps the good Marketing Research. "Dealer-certified means they ones and disposes of the bad ones. have to be brought back to the selling dealership."

For decades, used cars were seen by many So why should you consider a certified preconsumers as piles of junk looking for a home. owned car?

To them, "used" meant "abused." Then along "Because it gives you another option when came a wise marketing type who sought to buying a car," said Rob Gentile, director of web prodchange that image by calling used cars "pre-driven" uct management for Consumer Reports. "The average or "pre-owned." price of a new vehicle today is almost $30,000, but a The change made it considerably easier to sell certified pre-owned car gives you an alternative opthe cars, as dealers went from selling someone else's tion to buying a new vehicle — an affordable way to trouble to selling someone else's treasure. save money by purchasing a car that's been inspected, The pre-owned car got an even greater image boost when Mercedes-Benz began selling "certified" pre-owned luxury cars in the late '80s. For years, consumers had suggested car dealers inspect trade-ins for damage and make repairs before putting them on used -car lots. Dealers, however, said that would be too

repaired and warranted."

The key to certified pre-owned vehicles is that, unlike other used cars, they have been inspected, repaired and given a factory-backed warranty. The price of the car rises to defray the cost of those perks, but the higher price is offset by the consumer's peace of mind.

Auto industry experts estimate that up to 1.6 million of the 17 million used cars sold by dealers each year are factory-certified, and that 20 percent of shoppers who are happy with their used car will buy the same brand when they choose to buy a new car.

"Factory-certified has become very popular," said the former president of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which represents more than 500 new- and used-car dealers in the Chicago area. "One reason for offering certified pre-owned cars is that it's a way for automakers to keep you in their family. If they attract you into a pre-owned car and you're happy, you eventually will buy the same brand when you purchase new, and they are hoping for repeat new-car sales."

Monoprice specializes in a wide variety of electronic cables, home theater equipment, networking and IT gear, mobile accessories, and other computer components and tech equipment. Customers can easily navigate their website and choose from among more than 4,300 Monoprice branded and nonbranded products offered at very affordable prices on its website.

Metal Messiah Radio is a twenty-four hour a day, seven day a week, international internet radio station. Metal Messiah Radio had DJs from all over thh world, spanning FIVE of the seven continents, all bringing you the very best music to get you through your day, no matter what time zone you are in. The station is dedicated to bringing their listeners the very best music there is to offer because we are…

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