Entertheventure Featuring Indie Artists
Supreme Court of the United States Rules unanimously in Favor of The Slants p. 6 Brixton Typewriter reveals the making of his EP and more! p. 52 Concert Review at the Mint featuring Gestures & Sounds P. 64 ISSUE #2 Aug. — Sept. 2017
Gayle Skidmore Takes us to the “Golden West”
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C O N T E N T S 4 Letter from the Editor
News
6 The Slants
60 Last Giant’s “Memory of the World”
Supreme Court slams the hammer!
Get a blast of rock and electro vibes
10 Guthrie Sessions
62 Blisterhead’s Self-Titled EP
Non-profit uses music to spread awareness
New Releases
Punk Rock: questioning the government since 1973
64 The Mint Concert Review
12 Love Ghost VIDEO
Only good things can happen when you throw indie acts together in an intimate venue
16 Beta Days Single 17 Dang Clēts ALbum 17 Midnight Beach Video
CALENDAR
Teenage band stars in epic 10-minute video
Ready to dance on the beach at midnight?
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Reviews
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66 August 68 September
19 Bradley Wik Single 19 Prison Escapee Singles 20 The William Shakes Video
Sometimes simplicity is the way to go
21 The Great Shapes Single 21 Patrick Doval Video
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Attack of the 50-foot woman!
22 Tim Arnold Video
A touching and powerful message
23 Aubergine Machine Video 24 Matt Koelsch Single 25 Rival Shapes EP 25 Scott Ruth Single 26 King. B Videos
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From pop to rap to R&B
Interviews
28 Gayle Skidmore
The story of an album made in a brewery, among other places
34 Kathryn Claire
How long will our bones last?
40 Mario Jose
You can kickstart your own EP too
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44 Alabaster Stag
Get the gumbo and crawfish ready!
48 Anieszka
Traveling the world in search of oneself
51 Midnight Snack 52 Brixton Typewriter New music’s woot, dude!
56 Astro Lasso 2
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ENTER THE VENTURE ISSUE #2 Aug. — Sept. 2017
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www.EnterTheVenture.WordPress.com Twitter @EnterTheVenture
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Gayle Skidmore Cover Story!
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ETV Founder/ Editor/ Writer/ Designer: Isiah Reyes
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR W
elcome back to the second issue of Enter the Venture! On a bi-monthly basis this magazine will set out to explore new releases from upcoming bands and solo artists from around the world as well as provide insightful interviews that explore lesser-known artists from all genres. ETV will also cover informative news and of course, there will be reviews on albums, EPs, and local Los Angeles-based concerts. Hopefully the coverage of these artists makes you become aware of all the great talent that is on the rise and only a few clicks away.
rockers Love Ghost for their song “Forgive Me.” It’s an adventurous video you’ll have to see for yourself. In addition, don’t miss out on Tim Arnold’s touching new music video that challenges homophobia in a powerful way. If you find a new band in here that looks interesting, be sure to look them up and add them to your summer playlist. When it comes to interviews, this issue has exclusive sitdowns with very talented singers and bands including Gayle Skidmore and Kathryn Claire, two artists with strong classical and folk upbringings, and Louisiana’s very own Alabaster Stag, a group that brings the groovy neo-soul and Hip-Hop influences to a concert near you. There’s so many more interviews to mention that it’s best to explore them at your leisure. For reviews, we take a listen to Blisterhead and its new EP that challenges the ongoing refugee crisis in Europe. Lastly, for those living in Los Angeles, find out if The Mint venue is worth a visit and if the indie rock bands that performed there can put on a good show.
For this issue’s news section, ETV explores the story of The Slants’ battle to trademark their name. The ordeal is an eye-opener to how the government still uses archaic policies that violate first amendment rights, which led to the Supreme Court stepping in to set things straight. The second news story shows how a nonprofit organization uses music in its approach to spread awareness of Huntington’s Disease, also known as the ‘Worst Disease Known to Mankind.’ ETV’s approach to news coverage is to deliver news that goes beyond the entertainment value by showing how music can be used The calendar now provides one L.A. show per day for every single day in August and September. See if any of as a tool to challenge, inform, and call to action. them are to your liking! The presentation of the sections A variety of new singles, EPs, albums, and music will continue to evolve until everything feels just right. videos appear within these pages. Starting things off I hope you stick around to see where this ride takes us. is the incredible 10-minute-plus video by teenage alt- With that said, I hope you enjoy issue #2 of ETV! 4
Let’s take a look back at ETV’s FIRST ISSUE! The first issue of Enter the Venture was released on June 1, 2017, and reached more than 330 reads and 30,000 impressions on Issuu.com after its first two months. It was nice to finally see the finished product in print because there’s just something great about having a magazine you can hold in your hands in addition to reading online. So far, the feedback from the first issue has been overwhelmingly positive and the artists featured helped the magazine out by sharing it with their fanbase. This helps to open the door for many more readers to jump on board the ETV train. Every issue will continue to build upon what the first one started, so be on the lookout for the upcoming issues coming out this year on October 1 and December 1. To order a copy of Enter the Venture magazine or view a free copy online, visit https://issuu.com/entertheventure
About Enter the Venture Magazine Enter the Venture is a bi-monthly magazine born from the need to feature amazing emerging musical talent that often gets overlooked by the mainstream media. The magazine promotes new song and album releases, reviews, and interviews with indie artists and bands from around the world in all genres of music, including rock, pop, Hip-Hop and electronica. From the songwriting process, to recording techniques, to touring shenanigans, Enter the Venture strives to cover all the topics readers want to know concerning their next musical addiction. 5
THE SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA RULES UNANIMOUSLY IN FAVOR OF
THE SLANTS
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Asian-American band The Slants have tried to trademark their name for 8 years, but were unable to because their name was considered a “disparaging term.”
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n, June 19, 2017, the Supreme Court of the United States unanimously (8-0) upheld the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit’s ruling that the all-Asian-American rock band The Slants have the right to register their trademark, ending an eight-year battle in their pursuit to trademark their name. “After an excruciating legal battle that has spanned nearly eight years, we’re beyond humbled and thrilled to have won this case at the Supreme Court,” the band said in an official statement. “This journey has always been much bigger than our band: it’s been about the rights of all marginalized communities to determine what’s best for ourselves.” The Portland, Oregon band, consisting of vocalist Ken Shima, guitarist Joe X. Jiang, and founder/bassist Simon Tam (whose stage name is Simon Young), formally applied for a trademark in 2010. However, a trademark examiner rejected the application, stating that “The Slants” was a disparaging term, using sources like UrbanDictionary.com as evidence. “During the fight, we found the Trademark Office justifying the denial of rights to people based on their race, religion, sexual orientation, and political views,
All images via The Slants
simply because they disagreed with the message of these groups,” the band said. “To that end, they knowingly used false and misleading information, supported by questionable sources such as UrbanDictionary. com, while placing undue burdens on vulnerable communities and small business owners by forcing them into a lengthy, expensive, and biased appeals process.” Then in 2011, Tam filed a second application, but was rejected again under Section 2(a) of the Lanham Act. After numerous appeals and arguments in court, the band finally prevailed on December 22, 2015, with the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruling that The Slants have the right to register their trademark. The Slants stated that people of color and the LGBTQ community have been prime targets under Section 2(a) of the Lanham Act for too long, and their legal battle with the Trademark Office has made it clear that the office needed to open its eyes one day to the modern world and its evolving identity politics, shifting language, and understanding of culture competency. The day finally came when the appeals court ruled that the U.S Patent and Trademark Office and Department of Justice violated the band’s First Amendment rights. In a 9-3 vote, the appeals court struck down the 7
“I’m proud our band members have helped raise over $1 million for issues affecting Asian-Americans.” - Statement from The Slants “disparagement” portion of the Lanham Act, a 1946 was a political act in of itself, even though they never law that allowed the Trademark Office to deny marks considered themselves as a political group. that could be considered “scandalous, immoral, or “However, as we continued writing music about disparaging.” our experiences, we realized that activism would be Writing for the opinion, Judge Kimberly Moore stated, integrated into our art as well,” the band said. “I’m proud “Courts have been slow to appreciate the expressive our band members have helped raise over $1 million power of trademarks… Words – even a single word – for issues affecting Asian Americans, that we’ve worked can be powerful. Mr. Simon Tam named his band The with dozens of social justice organizations, and that we Slants to make a statement about racial and cultural could humanize important issues around identity and issues in this country. With his band name, Mr. Tam speech in new and nuanced ways. So, we became part conveys more about our society than many volumes of art and part activism.” undisputedly protected speech.” Indeed, the Supreme Court’s decision in favor of The Tam said that when he started the band, it was about Slants’ pursuit to trademark their name has opened creating a bold portrayal of Asian American culture new doors that allows Americans to decide who should because the establishment of an Asian American band prevail in the marketplace of ideas, as well as having 8
“The Supreme Court has vindicated First Amendment rights not only for our The Slants, but all Americans who are fighting against paternal government policies that ultimately lead to viewpoint discrimination.” The Slants newest EP “The Band Who Must Not Be Named” is an open letter to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Its lead single “From the Heart” showcases the band’s determination to fight for their rights. national implications on free speech. The Slants decided their name but wound up accomplishing something far to dedicate their newest release, “The Band Who Must more important: protecting marginalized members of Be Named,” as an open letter to the United States Patent society and protecting the First Amendment. and Trademark Office to articulate these values. “The Supreme Court has vindicated First Amendment “Music is the best way we know how to drive social rights not only for our The Slants, but all Americans change: it overcomes social barriers in a way that mob- who are fighting against paternal government policies mentality and fear-based political rhetoric never can,” that ultimately lead to viewpoint discrimination.” the band said. “Language and culture are powerful forms of expression and we are elated to know that the The Slants is currently touring and promoting their Supreme Court of the United States agree. Irony, wit, latest release, “The Band Who Must Not Be Named,” satire, parody…these are essential for democracy to which has spawned two singles “From the Heart” and thrive, these are weapons that neuter malice.” “Level Up.” They will be performing four shows in a row at Otakon Matsuri in Washington D.C. from Aug. 10 to The Slants expressed their gratitude and appreciation for Aug. 13. all the organizations and groups from all political sides that helped them along the way. The band set out to get 9
NEWS
The Guthrie Sessions at HDSA Shines a Light on ‘The Worst Disease Known to Mankind’ HDSA
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Vision:
he Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone with Huntington’s disease (HD) and their families. It was founded 50 years ago by American singer-songwriter Woody Guthrie’s wife, Marjorie, shortly after Woody passed away from HD complications when he was only 55 years old. The nonprofit looked to create a unique digital platform that celebrated the Guthrie Family legacy while also getting the word out about the disease. When the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge went viral, every nonprofit was being challenged to come up with an impactful campaign of their own. HDSA decided to stick to its roots and make music. It has now become the place to find the next big singersongwriter.
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on HDSA’s YouTube Channel. HDSA will book artists who are willing to volunteer their time to record four or five songs from HDSA’s conference room in New York City or venues around New York City and Los Angeles. The songs are professionally shot and edited by filmmaker and photographer Rae Maxwell. Once the songs are completed, HDSA features the artist for an entire month, posting a new song each Monday. The artist will then share the videos to their fan base. In the end, the artist receives professionally cut music videos and HDSA gets to introduce its mission to a new audience by sharing the Guthrie Family legacy.
“It is a win-win for HDSA and the artist,” said President and CEO of HDSA Louise Vetter. “HDSA gets exposure and the artist receives professionally shot and edited music videos shared on new platforms In February 2015, the organization all for an incredible cause. All the launched The Guthrie Sessions at videos live on HDSA’s YouTube HDSA, an online series that streams Channel which is the world’s most professionally edited music videos comprehensive Huntington’s disease 10
world video library. Creating engaging platforms that drives traffic to Huntington’s disease information is crucial.” Spreading awareness of HD is important, as there are approximately 30,000 symptomatic Americans and another 200,000 living at-risk of having inherited the disease.
“HDSA gets exposure and the artist receives professionally shot and edited music videos.” - Louise Vetter “Very often Huntington’s disease is described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases – simultaneously,” Vetter said. “More specifically, HD is a fatal genetic disease that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates
http://hdsa.org HDSA History The organization was founded on September 18, 1967, by Marjorie Guthrie, the wife of legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie. Woody died from HD complications on October 3, 1967, when he was only 55 years old, but the Guthrie family legacy lives on at HDSA to this day. Image via HDSA
free
of
a person’s physical and mental abilities usually during their prime working years and currently, there is no cure. Every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the faulty gene that causes HD.”
Huntington’s a new audience who might not have heard of the disease, but have heard of Woody Guthrie,” Vetter said. “We have such a rich history dating back to when Marjorie Guthrie began her crusade to fight HD in her husband’s name. HD families are some of the most inspirational and bravest people on the planet. Creating a platform for them is our responsibility and what better way to do it than through music.”
One of the biggest challenges HDSA faces in its awareness outreach is reaching out to people who may have the disease but are unaware of it. If someone does not have HD in their family, there is a good chance that person has never heard of it Vetter added that the feedback from before. the music videos has been very positive, especially when people The Guthrie Sessions has not only hear that the artists themselves generated unprecedented awareness volunteered to record songs for the of HD, it has also created a unique sessions. She said the musicians platform that utilizes music to battle enjoy being a part of something a rare disease. Vetter said when that has deep musical roots and it comes to building awareness, important family advocacy. nonprofit organizations need to think outside the box to engage “HD families now have another tool influencers to help spread the word. for educating communities about the impact of Huntington’s disease,” “Guthrie’s music has had such an Vetter said. “It has been so successful incredible impact on many of today’s that we have already started booking musicians, so the Guthrie Sessions at into 2018!” HDSA is a way to introduce HD to
disease What is Huntington’s Disease? Huntington’s disease is a fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person’s physical and mental abilities usually during their prime working years and has no cure. The symptoms of HD are described as having ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases – simultaneously. Every child of a parent with HD has a 50/50 chance of inheriting the faulty gene that causes HD. Today, there are approximately 30,000 symptomatic Americans and more than 200,000 at-risk of inheriting the disease.
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Images via Love Ghost
LOve Ghost’s head-turning video for “Forgive Me” is an impressive effort that blends a dreamlike plot with convincing performance art
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os Angeles’s own indie garage rock band Love Ghost have released a new video for its track “Forgive Me” from the EP “Love Ghost Vol. 1.” The 10-minute video sprawls through interesting storytelling and inspiring set pieces that show off the wanderer (played by vocalist/guitarist Finnegen Seeker Bell) lost in the desert. As he crawls through the sands of time he tosses his necklace and soon after sees a vision of the desert ghost that leads him to a mysterious set of doors. Upon entering it, the wanderer is inside a church that worships a television set. The scene shifts to a poolside with a baptism underway. The wanderer is looking to find himself in a world full of rules, and by the end he sets off running from a power plant full of a crew in chemical biohazard suits looking to trap him in their own toxicity. The wanderer eventually rests in an industrial junkyard and finds the necklace he tossed earlier, realizing he had what he was searching for all along. The teenage band’s vision is in full display here, and that’s not the only reason to like them. Love Ghost is full of energy and promise with hard pounding drums, inspired vocals (reminiscent of Curt Cobain) and
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something unique to this grunge act: the symphonic violin playing by member Mya Greene, who adds a touch of sophistication to the madness. This is a group that takes the best alternative acts of the 90s and translates their personal messages to apply to today’s youth. The band is on the rise, already having opened for Smash Mouth, The Tubes, Berlin, Ozomatli and Buckcherry. To see them live, check them out on their upcoming Los Angeles tour stops at The Roxy on Aug. 12 and at Echo Park Rising on Aug. 19.
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Photo via Beta Days
Beta Days release new single from album “S.T.T.”
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hode Island-based Beta Days has released the single “Agendas” from the album “S.T.T.” released on June 23. The album is a collection of songs that are thought-provoking and elicit feelings of isolation, the ups-and-downs of relationships, and the hardships of youth and adult life. Beta Days is the one-man project of Bill Bierce, who serves as songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. The project came to Bierce when he decided he wanted to do more than just play for Boston rock band The Wandas. He ended the four-year stint and started on his own, writing and recording everything from scratch. Through many intense late-night writing sessions and an overall nocturnal lifestyle, Bierce recorded the full-length album titled “S.T.T.” standing for Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday, an acronym for the days of the week he would record. The album was recorded in a private studio in Rhode Island and was finished in mid-2016. Bierce expanded the project into a live band shortly after completing the record, including his ex-Wandas bandmate Keith McEachern on bass. Now with a distinct sound and a proper release completed, Beta Days are looking to take their music to the next level. 16
Photo via Beta Days
Dang Clēts Release New Self-titled EP “Dang Clēts”
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oston-native Dang Clēts released their debut self-titled four-track EP Dang Clēts in June. The EP starts off with “Lines,” a song that is a smooth synth-based inspired track with guitarjangled pop. The entire EP was made to be the soundtrack of a summer outing, encompassing the light-hearted joys and splendors of an outing in the sun. The production puts the vocals up front that carry each song through interesting melodies and upbeat riffs. The band consists of James Forward, Jake Mills, and Connor Cunningham, who met for the first time as college freshmen in Boston. In the beginning, they formed their first band Waldo and worked their way up (winning Battle of the Bands
at Tufts University), eventually opening for The New Pornographers and Childish Gambino. Now under the moniker Dang Clēts, the trio is continuing to make new music in their Somerville home. For a casual, easy listening experience, be sure to check out Dang Clēts self-titled EP.
Midnight Beach Release New Self-titled Album “Midnight Beach”
Dancing is all the rage in the music video for “No”
Images via Midnight Beach
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idnight Beach released its self-titled debut album in July. The dance-pop, piano-flourished track “Fantasy” is a retro number perfect for summer days on the beach and is a good representation for the overall sound of the album. Midnight Beach consists of Steve Alex and Vovi Vu from Clearwater, Florida. They met in 2014 at a beachbar where Vovi agreed to mix a few songs for Steve’s band and they soon learned that they were instant musical partners. It’s been three years since forming and they are finally ready to share their self-titled debut album. Another single from the album, “No,” has got an edgy vibe but still retains the pop influences with interesting synth melodies and electronic beats that are sure to get people dancing. The 10-track album is a great intro to what Midnight Beach is all about and their introduction to the music world is a solid one. 17
Photo via Bradley Wik 18
Bradley Wik Releases New Single “Some Girls (Still Love Rock N Roll)”
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radley Wik and the Charlatans have released their new single “Some Girls (Still Love Rock N Roll)” off the upcoming album titled “In My Youth, I’m Getting Old…” scheduled to release on Sept. 15. The sound of the song has rightfully drawn comparisons to Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and the Replacements. It harkens back to the time when bands got together in one room to record the familiar sounds of guitars, bass, drums, and keys straight from live to tape for a real performance and connection to classic rock n roll. The album’s namesake is about Wik’s battle with drugs and alcohol, failed relationships and personal struggles and acts as a product of coming to terms with his chosen lifestyle. The songs are also meant to have people relate to them, whether by helping remember their hometown, friends, lost loves, hopes or regrets. Wik’s songs are snapshots in life, from nights filled with dancing, drinking and laughter to dark nights of defeat, while his approach to his sound is to break away from modern conventions and to return to his rock n roll roots and all the rawness and organic power it has.
Prison Escapee Releases Two New Singles “Locket” and “Au Revoir”
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os Angeles-based singer-songwriter Prison Escapee released two new tracks “Locket” and “Au Revoir” that follow up his 2016 LP “Disappearing Mountaintop.” The two electro-inspired piano ballads are themed around unrequited and lost love. The songs continue the Prison Escapee trend of making lo-fi style recordings that could easily work as part of a film soundtrack. His songs have an intimate feeling, probably because they were written, recorded, produced, and mixed in his living room.
“It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does have to be worth it,” Wik said. “What makes music great? The stories. And the moment where someone listening says, ‘that’s me.’”
Erik David Hidde created the moniker Prison Escapee in 2015 and is putting all his effort into original melancholic music and electronic rock songs. He was raised in Fort Hunter in upstate New York by a Christian family, and was brought up singing in his church and all-county chorus in grade school, which is represented in his music. His lyrics often includes reflecting back on his childhood and personal sentiments of loss. His moniker is even centered around his close friend’s prison cell suicide. Every once in a while, it’s good to listen to songs that offer deep introspection and Prison Escapee’s new singles are a good place to start.
New Bradley Wik album coming out Sept. 15!
Prison Escapee’s New Singles out now! 19
Image via The William Shakes
The William Shakes’ “Leaden Messengers” video is a simple yet effective snapshot of the band’s full potential
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All the songs on The William Shakes debut EP are selfcomposed and produced by Mark who performs on guitar, bass VI, bass, percussion, and vocals. The songs were originally conceived as an acoustic project for the February 2016 RPM Challenge (the challenge required participants to record 10 songs or 35 minutes of original material during the month of February). McGettrick added a full band to his tracks resulting in the current final product. It features musical collaborations with The EP continues The William Shakes concept where New York, Boston, and Los Angeles artists Carrie band leadrer Mark McGettrick takes bits and pieces Ingber, Rob Sistare, Matt Diekmann, and Jason Dunn. of words and puts them together resulting in often haphazard phrases. Mark applies the following process: Beyond The William Shakes, Mark McGettrick is a staple select the character, isolate their lines, randomize their artist in Boston’s thriving music scene. Most recently, he lines, curate into new lyrics, and compose an original was featured playing drums and backing vocals on The melody. He does this throughout the EP, which explores Luxury’s 2015 album “Bones and Beaten Heart.” He has these five Shakespearean characters: Banquo (MacBeth), also performed with Seven Sunless Days, Sugarshaped, Helena (All’s Well That Ends Well), Horatio (Hamlet), Chromavoid, and Fade. Cordelia (King Lear), and Cassius (Julius Caesar). he William Shakes released a new video for the song “Leaden Messengers,” the second single off their debut EP “How Goes the Night?” The song is based on the words of Helena, the protagonist of Shakespeare’s “All’s Well That Ends Well” and explores the feeling of wanting to profess your love for someone, but not being able to find the right words; words are the metaphorical leaden messengers.
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Great Shapes Release New Single “Losing My Mind”
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reat Shapes’ new single “Losing My Mind” was released to show off the groovy aspects contained in their sophomore album “Somewhere in Between,” released in June. The El Paso-native alternativepop group new seven-track album is full of luscious fresh melodies made for the mainstream to kick back and relax. The single “Losing My Mind” is an energizing track that shows off Neil Henry’s soothing vocals and funky guitar licks. It was written shortly after the completion of the first album. The group returned home from touring and needed to release all the leftover energy they had, so in writing the song, they injected personal, emotional aspects of their lives and managed to pump out this edgy, upbeat party-starter. The song was an instant hit when the band first played it live and has already become a fan favorite.
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The rest of the album also follows in the footsteps of “Losing My Mind” with body-moving drum rhythms and foot-tapping basslines. The album was influenced by post-punk and indie-pop, taking on the themes of love, disenchantment, and the effect that time has on everything.
Patrick Doval Releases New Video “Crush”
iami, Florida-based singer-songwriter and producer Patrick Doval has released his 20th music video for the 80s dance pop “Crush” from his 2016 LP “Obscured.” “Crush” is a fun song with a quirky video that takes inspiration from the 1958 cult film “Attack of the 50 Foot Woman” with its larger than life actor searching for her relatively miniature friend. The over-the-top zaniness of the video draws comparisons to the creativity level of someone like David Bowie, who always took art into new, exciting directions. The video is yet another example of Doval’s musical and creative inspiration. The song is featured on last year’s “Obscured,” an EP that debut at #164 on the FMQB radio charts along with its lead single “Sugarless Candy.” The song peaked at #27 and spent 20 weeks in the top 100. Doval is known for being a do-it-yourself artist and he has been actively making music for more than ten years and on five albums. Some of Doval’s music videos have been
Image via Patrick Doval
showcased at premier contemporary art stages including Art Basel and the Wynwood Arts District of Miami’s Curator’s Voice Art Projects. 21
Tim Arnold fights for equality in new video
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im Arnold has released a new music video for his song “What Love Would Want.” The song was written as the leading song for Tim’s next album as a response to the divisive times of contemporary cuture by taking pride in his unique background as a straight, mixed race son of lesbian parentage. Tim said the song was inspired by both Emma Watson’s “He for She” campaigned (campaign for the advancement of women initiated by UN Women) and Stephen’s Fry’s speech on the Catholic Church’s condemnation of gay people. The song is a poetic anthem that focuses on diversity and love without barriers or shame as the video features couples who are straight, gay, lesbian, transgender, mixed race and interracial. The video celebrated the international Anti Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia Day and is available on all streaming platforms now.
Image via Aubergine Machine
Aubergine Machine’s music video for “U People” is profound and ethereal
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ubergine MACHINE has released a new music video for its track “U People” off the latest “Wildlife EP,” which released on July 7. Consisting of multi-platinum selling producer Ian Carey and newcomer vocalist Shanti Ellis (who connected in 2012). Aubergine MACHINE’s takes ‘90s Hip-Hop inspiration and adds a prestine pop production complete with soothing yet haunting vocals. The video shrouds Shanti in smoke as the music takes hold of her, giving viewers a look into the group’s darker, deeper side. “It was sometime during the end of 2015 that we started to feel like we needed to take some time to revel in some personal dark space and write about stuff, personal stuff,” the band said of the video. “We started writing ‘U People.’ Somehow in the end, we thought that the darkness felt and sounded more like resilience. When it came time to do the video a year and a half later, there were so many images that came to mind. Political things. Big things. Small things. But in the end, we felt like sticking to our original feeling of that dark space and that’s what we did. We found a dark cozy spot and filmed ourselves.” The six-track “Wildlife EP” follows suit in capturing mystical sounds accompanied by personal lyrics. It was recorded in a studio they made in the middle of
an obscure tropical landscape and the result is a group going against social constructs and throwing away cultural conventions. As the band said, the EP “creates visions of a dystopian rebellion sprinkled with a little stardust,” showing there is always a little hope even in troubling times.
Aubergine Machine’s electronic and spacey six track EP “Wildlife” is out now! 23
Photo via Matt Koelsch
Matt Koelsch’s Latin-inspired single “Perfectly Alligned” gets the party started
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inger-songwriter Matt Koelsch released his summer single “Perfectly Aligned” off his EP “Thinking of You” released on July 14.
His track “Perfectly Aligned” has a laid-back Latin sound that would be perfect to listen to while on the beach. Perhaps the song’s inspiration stems from his new So-Cal surroundings and Koelsch does a good Koelsch’s latest EP is titled “Thinking of You” and was job at adding his own style to the indie-folk genre with co-produced with Eugene Toale, who has worked with catchy vocals and upbeat instrumentations. There’s no Kanye West and Las Cafeteras. Koelsch’s story is a bit doubt that Koelsch will continue to rise and he’s already different than most singer-songwriters who aspire to on the right track by winning a scholarship to Berklee go into music at a young age. Koelsch decided to move College of Music and already sharing the stage with away from his anchored position in the world of finance bands such as REM and Pink Floyd. during the height of the recession into the often-chaotic realm that is the music industry. “I walked out of the doors of the financial building in Post Office square, I had this feeling of an enormous sense of relief, freedom and uncertainty,” Koelsch said. He has been pursuing his passion as a full-time recording and performance artist in Los Angeles, and his first EP reflects his 3,000-mile distance from his homeland in New England. This release shows Koelsch’s epic vocals and emotional lyrics that tell stories of loss and gains and his adventures of growing up. “Being in this setting during my late 20s early 30s has affected my writing because it has made me more vulnerable,” said Koelsch. “There is more time and space to explore and discover when you are in a completely new and foreign setting, removed from the comforts of your close network of relationships.” 24
New Koelsch EP “Thinking of You” out now!
Photo via Rival Shapes
Photo via Scott Ruth
Scott Ruth comforts those in isloation with new single
Rival Shapes are looking to “Pull” after last year’s “Push”
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cott Ruth has released his latest single “Are You There,” a track produced by acclaimed indie folk musician Noah Gundersen.
our-piece Tucson-natives Rival Shapes recently Ruth is an L.A.-based singer-songwriter who finds released its new moody EP “Pull,” a follow up to himself for the first time not self-producing a project. He worked with Gundersen and engineer Andy Parks, their last year’s debut EP “Push.” which allowed him to have more creative freedom and The EP features slower songs full of introspection a new perspective. The song was recorded at X Studios that explore the darkest depths of human emotions. in Seattle and follows the American songwriting style The band stated the EP is about “seeking, attainment, of Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen while lyrically preservation, and loss of love” perfect for rainy days or focusing on the void left behind in a past relationship. getting through a tough breakup. Although the songs are sad in nature, they do provide the warmth needed “The song is about that feeling you get when someone to cope with difficult situations in life. The singing and who was once a huge part of your life, suddenly isn’t instrumentation compliment Rival Shapes’ ability to there anymore and all the things that go through your craft songs that allow listeners to love themselves with head,” Ruth said. “Wondering what they’re doing, if uplifting lyrics for dark times. This is the EP to pick they’re feeling what you’re feeling.” up to get into the band while the flames flicker in the Ruth was formerly a part of the L.A. indie rock band background. The Futures League where he provided bass. He has The band formed in late 2014 when singer-songwriter since furthered his craft as a multi-instrumentalist and Fred Baker met guitarist-songwriter Frank Dillon in a producer. Last year, he released his solo debut “The local watering hole in Tucson, AZ. They began writing Weight of It All” and toured extensively for it supporting in 2015 and after coming up with a bunch of songs, Noah Gundersen as well as headlining his own shows. they enlisted drummer Ryan Janac who learned the songs and laid the foundation in early 2016. They added “I’m now in a different chapter of my life, and I couldn’t bassist Brock Lange and together they have created an be more excited to get the rest of these songs out in the unmistakable haunting and shadowy sound straight open,” Ruth said. from the heart of Tucson. 25
Images via King. B
KING. B
New Music Videos
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ontreal-native Brendan King. B shared three music videos in July for his latest EP “Soul Ties” released on July 13. All three videos are high quality productions that show the diversity in King. B’s songwriting and delivery as well as his ability to share the spotlight with other great talents. The first video, released on the same day the EP dropped, is “Crush,” a song that features Chris Hoather, who brings a deep and distinct voice along with his acoustic guitar playing. The chorus is light-hearted with “to run around together / to hold you down forever” being the central theme of the song. The video captures the innocence of children and their first crush with a believable story that unfolds before our eyes. The child actors really make this video stand out and it adds a layer of charm to the song.
video for “Droptop” was unleashed and this one is a hip and swag-inspired showcase of fresh cars, stylized backdrops and a free-spirited lifestyle. The song features Young EZ who brings attitude to the table as he trades verses alongside King. B. They both have the same flow and rhythm to successfully deliver a rap anthem for the upcoming youth. The third and final video for the EP was “No Heat” released one week after. This inspirational song opens with a poetic ballad by King. B and features Rayana Speede who brings a touch of R&B to the mix. The song shows a softer side to King. B and introduces Rayana’s radiant singing to a whole new audience. Overall, the video captures the feeling of inspiration, renewal and hope after long days of suffering.
Prior to “Soul Ties” being released, King. B was making One week after “Crush” was released, the second music waves in the rap scene with his album “The Reign” and 26
his EP “First Semester” last year. Making music was always something King. B wanted to do and it all began when he released his track titled “Acceptance,” something he struggled with his whole life. He was a victim of being bullied and the song was his way of letting everyone know that acceptance should be for all. Equality and identifying with one’s difference became the foundation for his musical career. The follow up song “Confidence” was made to let people know that “they can do anything they want to do with a bit of confidence.” Coming from a musical family, King. B is most influenced by his father, Carl Hamel, who has been making for 35 years and he makes the instrumentation and compositions for his son’s tracks. King. B is also inspired by the likes of G-Eazy, Justin Bieber and Chance the Rapper because as King. B said, they are making music exactly the way he sees himself doing it one day.
Chris Hoather acoustic guitar
brings his songwriting chops and skills for the pop-friendly “Crush.”
Young EZ jumps on board with hitting rhymes on the rap
clever and fasttrack “Droptop.”
King. B’s album “The Reign” released last year featured 14 rap and Hip-Hop tracks that took him two years to complete. He wanted to make something that was accessible to everyone while also being personal. “The biggest challenge was finding myself as an artist,” King. B said. “By the end of the album I was content with my work. However, I’m still finding myself. Long nights and early mornings in the studio made for this art piece.” King. B’s explored the journey of recently graduating high school and entering college with his EP in a record that saw him becoming more mature as he struggles in school and love. It was released for free because he wanted to give back to everyone who has been supporting him. He is also currently working on his follow-up “Second Semester,” which will also be released for free.
Rayana Speede shows the world what her voice is capable of in the heartfelt, R&B-inspired “No Heat.”
King. B’s pop, rap, and R&B-inspired three track EP “Soul Ties” is out now! Featuring Chris Hoather, Young EZ and Rayana Speede! 27
GAYLE SKIDMORE I N T E R V I E W 28
Images via Gayle Skidmore / In Music We Trust PR
Gayle Skidmore’s “The Golden West” is all about trying to leave the past behind
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olk and indie singer-songwriter Gayle Skidmore recently released her 20th independent release, which also happens to be her first full length vinyl album. She described the album as “whimsical, melancholic music for the romantic intellectual.” After following trends and chasing after deals to be successful through the industry channels, she has moved on to find something that works out for her, and “The Golden West” is about finding her own voice and creating music straight from her soul. ETV spoke with Gayle about the making of her album, creating adult coloring books, and her plans for touring this year.
portray her penned musings and strong enough to portray the feeling behind those words. She also plays a number of varying instruments, ranging from electric guitar, banjo, ukulele, flute, marimba, organ, mandolin, ocarina, accordion, trumpet, percussion, and many more you’ve probably never heard of. Gayle believes anyone can learn any instrument if they dedicate the time it takes to learning music theory, confirming that even with her exceptional musical ability, anyone can be just as good if they put in the time.
Gayle writes original material about the highs and lows in life with musical inspirations coming from Classically trained on the piano since the age of 4, and Radiohead, Jeff Buckley, Damien Rice, and other artists having written more than 2,000 songs since age 8, Gayle who are bold in their songwriting or elaborate with was destined to achieve a prestigious musical career their on-stage antics. This has clearly left an impression regardless of how she went about it. Her toolset includes on her and has opened the door for self-expressing to a majestic voice that is delicate enough to accurately the fullest. Gayle’s talents have attracted other top-tier 29
Gayle Skidmore and band perform a hauntingly beautiful version of “Pale Ghosts” for NPR Tiny Desk Contest 2016. In addition to Gayle’s vocals and piano, the video performance included Marta Blalock (violin), Melissa Barrison (violin), Erdis Maxhelaku (cello), Josh Hermsmeier (percussion), and Chelsea Wilde (backup vocals), with audio by John Cruess and Mace Tripp, and videography by Mace Tripp and Elise Martinez. musicians who enjoy touring or recording with her. She has opened for the likes of Jason Mraz, Lisa Loeb, Steve Martin, Sean and Sara Watkins, Sam Phillips, Coeur d’Pirate, and many others and has recorded with such artists as The Softlightes, Bushwalla, Jason Mraz and Tyrone Wells. Her impressive music career is an outlet to express the different stories that come from a tumultuous life, an experience that she finds personally fulfilling. It has led her to winning multiple awards, from Best Pop in the 2015 San Diego Music Awards, Best Pop Album for “Sleeping Bear” in 2014, and Best Singer-Songwriter in 2013. However, despite her successes, her new album was written as the roadmap of moving on from heartache and loss. Gayle’s first full length vinyl album “The Golden West” (her 20th independent release) was originally planned to be an EP but quickly turned into a full-length in 2015 following her extensive touring across the U.S. The personal journey that Gayle went through is wonderfully captured in the 10-track indie pop album that was recorded in the legendary studio Rancho de la Luna in Joshua Tree, Singing Serpent in San Diego, and at Ninkasi Studios—a recording studio 30
built right inside a Eugene, Oregon brewery. “Eugene has felt like a second, though much weirder, home for the past few years since I have been collaborating with Ninkasi Brewing, so recording at Ninkasi Studios felt super comfortable right from the start,” Gayle said. “It doesn’t get much better than having Ninkasi on tap right outside the studio door, as
well as nitro Stumptown coffee for a nice pick-me-up very cathartic experience that saved her perseverance. during late night sessions. They have a killer setup there and it was so much fun to work with James Book on the “The week before my wedding I was still finishing album.” vocals for the album, which was pretty insane,” Gayle said. “One year, four cities, and four producers later, we All the songs on the album make up the story of how she finally had an album. Finishing it has been one of the overcame loss, from the opening track’s “Pale Ghosts” most challenging things I’ve done.” that deals with the struggle of letting go of people we’ve lost and feeling afraid to move on to “Beautiful Soul,” a The album was also released as a full-length vinyl, song about falling in love and working up the courage making the listening of the journey an intimate one. to confess your feelings. As the album flows on, lyrical themes cover topics about leaving the past behind, “It’s been a dream come true for me to release a fullfeeling nostalgic of what was left behind, and the fear of length vinyl album—especially one that comes in all moving forward but having the commitment to journey different colours,” Gayle said. “I have always preferred with a trusted companion. listening to vinyl albums. I know that there is still a lot of
“I penned the chorus to a song I’d been working on while the sun set on the old mining town of Sonora, California,” Gayle said. “I knew immediately that this would be my single and title track for my upcoming album. The chorus’ lyrics, ‘Let’s bury all we put to rest in the golden west,’ captured the spirit of the record. Since I was contemplating a move to Amsterdam at the time, it seemed only fitting that this album about letting go would be titled after the song that talked directly about leaving California.”
debate about the quality of sound on an LP versus a CD and that it’s very subjective. For me, it’s the comfort that comes with the experience, the magic of nostalgia and the familiarity of the crackle that make it extra special. When I was little and dreaming of being a musician, I never imagined that I’d actually get to hear my own album on vinyl.”
Gayle was proud of everyone who worked on the project because she said they brought their best effort and caught the vision of what the final product could be. The first song on side B is considered a turning point in During the recording process, the sound of the album the ongoing narrative with the track “How to Let You had changed from its original intention but at the same Go,” which is about getting rid of nostalgic memorabilia time, that was exactly what she was hoping for. that hinder us from taking hold of our future. Following that is “Honey Bee,” a pop song about the first pure In addition to music, an important part of the Gayle happy day after long years of pain. “Moving On” serves listening experience is the appreciation of the artwork as a celebration to completely let go of painful parts of featured on all her albums that she does all herself, even the past. The final two songs, “The Hallows” and “Only going so far as releasing coloring books to go along Ever You” deal with making peace with the ghosts of the with her music. “The Golden West” is her third album past and finding a different way to look at the painful to feature an adult coloring book with each picture years in the rear view mirror. Overall, the record was depicting a different song. a dissection of a troubling time and the recording of it took its toll on Gayle, though it eventually became a “My artwork has become increasingly important over 31
the years and I’ve begun to focus on it a lot more, especially with ‘The Golden West’ colouring book,” Gayle said. “I began creating adult colouring books with my albums in 2010 with my first full-length, ‘Make Believe,’ and at the time it was more about having something interactive than really making an artistic statement. Since then I have invested a lot more time in my artwork as I did more and more research about the benefits of colouring. For this last colouring book, my third, I actually won an artist grant, which felt like a huge affirmation for me. I have worked hard to create my own special aesthetic to complement my music, and I feel inspired to pursue that more and more.” With the album complete, she sets out to go on tour and share to the world the songs she has finished. Gayle recently moved to Amsterdam from San Diego and is still building a steady lineup in her new homeland. She has been on tour with her San Diego band and still performs with them when she is in the States. “Blalock and Erdis Maxhelaku, who’ve played on several albums and countless shows, are my cellist and violinist in the states, and I’ve got Daniel Crawford on lead guitar, Dave Carano on bass and Danny Campbell on drums,” Gayle said. “All of them have been with me for several years and I’ll be performing with them again in the fall when I tour the States again. I’m hoping to bring them to Amsterdam soon!” Gayle is planning to tour in both the United States and Europe, making it quite the finale to a busy 2017. “I am planning another tour in the States this fall, but before then I’ve got a bunch of European dates on the books!” Gayle said. “I’m pairing up with my pal Arlan Feiles, who’s heading to Europe from L.A. for a few shows, and then heading home to head up the west coast. I’m also releasing a new music video for ‘Pale Ghosts’ very soon.” Gayle has moved on from an aching past that was tough to endure and we appreciate her making an album about her experiences and taking us along with her. Only time will tell what venture lies ahead for Gayle but one thing’s for certain: we want to take every step along with her no matter where she goes. 32
Gayle Skidmore “The Golden West” tracklist: 1. Pale Ghosts 2. Beautiful Soul 3. The Golden West 4. Hourglass 5. Long Way Home 6. How To Let You Go 7. Honeybee 8. Moving On 9. The Hallows 10. Only Ever You
Enjoy Gayle
f o le p m a s small a ! k r o tw r a m u lb a Skidmore’s
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Kathryn C l a i r e 34
“The violin and strings will always be a part of my musical voice” 35
Kathryn Claire’s new album ponders the literal and figurative meanings behind the bones left behind after death Kathryn Claire sings about mortality, loss, love and transformation in the “Bones Will Last” music video shot in Cannon Beach, Oregon.
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inger-songwriter Kathryn Claire released her fourth full-length, 10-track album “Bones Will Last…” that is both a classical and folk-influenced listening experience. ETV spoke with Kathryn about the making of her half-vocal and half-instrumental album, the story behind her music video for “The Fugue,” and she offered advice for other musicians who are also interested in learning to play the violin.
Her new album “Bones Will Last...” contains five instrumentals and five vocal tracks, providing the best of her talents for everyone to enjoy. She worked on the record for more than two years, trying to find a cohesive sound between instrumentals and lyrical songs that proved to be problematic. Ultimately, it was the violin’s strings in each song that tied everything together.
“Having the ability to harmonize there were going with myself and build entire “Initially to be a lot more songs and not as many instrumentals,” string sections... is amazing!” in Kathryn said. “Over time I
Kathryn is based Portland, Oregon, and has created a unique style of music that combines her skills as a violinist, guitarist, and singer-songwriter to deliver a fresh chamber and folk experience. Growing up, Kathryn listened to a lot of Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, who helped shaped Kathryn’s style, and she was also a big fan of classical violinist Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg who astounded her with energy and vitality with the violin on stage.
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realized that I actually had two albums on my hands. ‘Bones Will Last’ and another more lyrical driven, electric album ‘Eastern Bound for Glory.’ It was a process to realize that I couldn’t put everything on one album. Once I realized that, I was able to listen more skillfully to myself and to what ‘Bones Will Last’ was becoming. I realized that I wanted to place the violin at the center of the album and strip away all percussion or harmony vocals or really anything that I felt detracted from the violin compositions and my voice on the album. It was
Film-maker Martin Vavra helped Kathryn bring her vision to life for “The Fugue” music video. Many symbolic images allows for viewers to form their own interpretation of its meaning. such a cool process and an exercise in trusting myself as an artist and having faith in what was wanting to come out musically. Technically speaking, my favorite aspect was tracking the multiple violin parts. I love doing that and having the ability to harmonize with myself and build entire string sections. It is amazing!” Kathryn has played violin on many albums and with many performers, and along the way she has learned how to listen. For this album, she captured what was in her head with the violin and found the melodic and lyrical lines she kept hearing. Once she came up with the compositions she wanted, she worked with Portland musicians Zak Borden (mandolin), Allen Hunter (upright bass), and Don Henson (piano) who
the ‘bones’ of my creative being through the creation of this album. I wondered how I would feel if this was my last album, if this was the last musical thing I left behind. I The theme of the album is needed to make sure that I said and about mortality, loss, love and expressed everything I wanted.” transformation. Kathryn admits to thinking about death often, but more Kathryn is not sure if her future often to ponder rather than thinking albums will also be a split between from a place of preoccupation. The instrumental and vocal tracks. title of the album “Bones Will Last” “Bones Will Last” was an experiment refers to what people leave behind and she believes it worked out for when they die in the literal sense, the best on this album. Kathryn is but in the figurative sense the bones already at work on her follow-up represent personality and the other titled “Eastern Bound for Glory,” essential things that live on after which is a collection of songs she wrote on electric guitar with her death. current band that features drums, “I like the idea that at the core bass, and strings. each of us have this essence, and as an artist, there is a core voice or “‘Bones Will Last’ is a very special aesthetic,” Kathryn said. “I sought album to me and I feel it stands on all brought their own style to create the album she wanted to create. She has even performed and toured extensively with all three artists.
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“The Forest Flowers Will Set” was shot in Tournai, Belgium, by T.Raznor at Christiane’s salon. The video was created spontaneously while scouting locations. its own in my musical catalogue,” Kathryn said. “I could see myself doing more instrumental composition for sure. I loved creating the instrumentals. It really opened a part of me that I would like to explore more. So, the violin and strings will always be a part of my musical voice, I think.” Several of the tracks on the album received the music video treatment. “The Forest Flower Will Set” is a traditional song and the video features Kathryn walking in a barbershop. It was shot in Tournai, Belgium, by T. Raznor at Christiane’s salon. The spontaneity captured on film is in tune with the liveliness of the song and it’s a nice representation of Kathryn’s spirit. Another song on the album with a video was “The Fugue,” a very whimsical-driven song with visuals to match. It was the first official music video for Kathryn and was directed by Martin Vavra of Galaxy Sailor Productions shot in Cannon Beach, Oregon.
we didn’t have to contend with lyrics that we were trying to somehow represent in the video,” Kathryn said. “That was so liberating. I worked with film-maker, Martin Vavra on the project and he contributed a lot to the vision of the video. The initial idea came from an image I had carried in my head for a number of years. It was a woman on the beach with her hair tied up in drift wood and staked in the sand with shells and feathers all around. A couple friends helped me to make that image a reality and we took a bunch of pictures and documented the process. It was beautiful. When Martin saw that image, he said, ‘That should be a video’ and we took it from there. For me personally, I feel the elements of death, rebirth, transformation, the passing of time, and longing are all elements of the video. The thing I love the most is that everyone has their own interpretation of the images and the video. I love that it is open for people to respond to in their own way.”
Most recently, the title track of “Bones Will Last” “Because ‘The Fugue’ is an instrumental composition, received a video of its own that was shot in Director 38
Kathryn set a Kickstarter to fund campaigned earned $5,095 from 109
the release of her album. The backers of the pledged $4,500.
Park in downtown Portland, Oregon on March 8. It was a beautiful sound and loving the voice of the violin is also directed by Vavra and filmed by Phil Anderson and essential before you begin to be able to play anything captures the heart of this song and album with a public complex or flashy.” performance piece. Overall, for anyone looking to listen to a singersongwriter with an emphasis in violin playing, look no further than Kathryn Claire. She is clearly one with the violin, and she hopes others will pick up on the instrument. She offered advice for those up and coming musicians who want to take up the violin for themselves. “I would say, ‘Don’t give up!’” Kathryn said. “The violin is such a beautiful instrument and truly a joy to play. But it takes a lot of practice and perseverance, especially right at the beginning. It is difficult to get a rich tone in the beginning, so the sound can be a bit challenging right at first. Like anything else you might be starting for the first time, I would say, start slow, practice frequently but for short amounts of time, and really fall in love with long notes and playing the open strings. I think making
Kathryn Claire’s “Bones Will Last...” album is available now on CD and vinyl! 39
MARIO JOSE Interview
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All photos via mariojosemusic.com
The making of Mario Jose’s independent “Heart of Gold” EP incorporated friends and fans together as they completed a successful Kickstarter campaign
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ario Jose’s debut EP “Heart of Gold” is a sixsong collection that showcases the rising pop singer’s best talents. ETV spoke with Mario about his musical inspirations, the Kickstarter campaign behind the making of his EP, and his plans for the future.
Mario would go on to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston and was a part of the award-winning a cappella group Pitch Slapped. He moved to Los Angeles after graduating to pursue a career in music.
Mario’s latest EP “Heart of Gold” EP is the result of a crowdfunding effort to help pay the costs of producing Mario’s journey as a singer comes at a very young age. the record. Mario and his manager Ryan Aceto (AMMO He picked up inspiration from his idols that include Management) both knew they needed to raise money Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Donny through a grassroots effort because they were completely Hathaway and Mariah Carey. However, his first and independent without a label. They ultimately decided most important influence in shaping up who he is today on the website Kickstarter, a website that helps a creator was his mom. raise funds to complete whatever project they are trying to bring to reality. “My mom is a singer herself, so she was my first musical inspiration,” Mario said. “If you ask my mom, she said “Ryan did tons of research about all of the different sites I was singing in the womb. As long as I can remember, we could use and we thought Kickstarter was the right I was interested in singing. The first recording of me fit for us, which in the end was absolutely the case!” singing was at 2.5 years old into my parents Dictaphone Mario said. “I was very surprised to see that we reached and I haven’t shut up since.” our goal nine days early. With that extra time, we could 41
“I think my favorite part was seeing so many people come together to help me make my dream come true. I will always say ‘we’ when talking about ‘Heart of Gold’ because it was a labor of love of so many people.” - Mario Jose
Available on iTunes Now! keep pushing the limits of what we could do! I was also finally released, it was a goal Mario had been dreaming super surprised to see friends that I haven’t seen in of for a very long time. AGES coming through and contributing to the project.” “I was so excited for this EP for many reasons, but Mario describes the EP as primarily pop, with several mainly because it was my first solo project I had ever genres and influences coming through in each song. released,” Mario said. “I think my favorite part was He said when he was writing the EP, he wanted to seeing so many people come together to help me make collaborate with some of his favorite artists to talk about my dream come true. I will always say ‘we’ when talking real life experiences that affect many people daily, such about ‘Heart of Gold’ because it was a labor of love of so as unrequited love, bullying, and trying to fit in and many people.” finding your own voice. These were important topics for Mario to discuss and would help his audience relate Mario’s excited about the release of his EP, but that’s to his music. Ultimately, when his first solo project was only the beginning of his ongoing journey. He recently
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473 backers pledged $35,764 to help bring this project to life released his newest cover single of Charlie Puth’s This year, Mario performed original music on tour “Attention” featuring singer-songwriter Madilyn Bailey for the first time on the Heart Hope & Love Tour with Travis Atreo and the Filharmonic. with video editing Kurt Hugo Schneider. When it comes to touring, Mario has shared the stage and studio with music icons including Pentatonix (opening for them on tour), Prince, Justin Bieber, Meghan Trainor (New Orleans Jazz Fest 2017), John Legend (NBC’s Duets), Michael McDonald, Philip Bailey (of Earth, Wind & Fire), John Elefante (of Kansas), Jim Peterick (of Survivor), Bill Champlin (of Chicago), Paula Cole, Lalah Hathaway, Ben E. King, Post Modern Jukebox and many more.
“We sold out the L.A. show and now I’m excited to travel to San Francisco, Chicago and tons of other cities performing songs from ‘Heart of Gold’!” Mario said. “In between tour dates, I’ll be back in the studio writing and recording for the next project! Can’t wait!”
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Alabaster Stag Band Interview 44
Image via Alabaster Stag
A combination of neo-soul, hip-hop, jazz, pop, and rock, Alabaster Stag is a Baton Rouge hometown favorite
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aton Rouge-based soul and R&B band Alabaster Stag released its debut EP “Perfume” to a positive reception. ETV spoke with the group’s lead singer Chloe Johnson about the formation of the band, the making of the new EP, and the overall message she wants her music to have on the world. The roots of Alabaster Stag began in 2015 when Chloe was told about an upcoming gig by a promoter friend she had. Chloe knew she had to perform at the gig, but without having a band at the time, she figured she’d ask her friends to play with her. The lineup included Eli Williams (Drums), James West (guitar/synth/vocals), and Chris Polk (bass/vocals) to backup Chloe. They had already known each other from various projects so the formation came together organically. They played cover songs for the first couple shows and every member brought their own unique style and experiences together to create a sound that was all their own.
open, everyone kinda takes the opportunity to add bits and pieces of sounds they like which usually results in something that’s hard to categorize. When you’ve got a very jazz-influenced drummer, hip-hop/funk bassist, rock/pop guitarist, and a keyboardist who comes equipped with all kinds of synth sounds and electronic things, the result is just a playground of musical possibility. And I think we take advantage of that.” After some time, the band realized playing covers songs was not what they wanted to do long term. James then switched from keys to guitar and the final member of the band, Bailey Wilder (keys/synth), joined Alabaster Stag to complete the five-piece. They started writing original songs and performing them live and have already opened for Grammy award-winner Anna Wise (of Kendrick Lamar), Pell, Big Freedia, GIVERS, and Preservation Hall All-Stars.
After some time of performing and writing original “I think when you listen to our music you can definitely material, Alabaster Stag decided it was time to record hear a little bit of everyone’s personal style and it really the songs into a proper collection, which resulted in helps distinguish us from other groups,” Chloe said. “Perfume.” “Since a lot of our songwriting is collaborative and very 45
“The making of ‘Perfume’ felt like a long time coming honestly and we were so happy to finally release it,” Chloe said. “We’d been performing all but the first and last tracks for about a year and we were ready to make them available for people to listen to outside of a few rehearsal demos we had online.”
Chloe’s songwriting inspirations include many artists that have all shaped the way she creates music, from Lauryn Hill’s album “Miseducation” to soul artists Erykah Badu, India Arie, Sade, and Goapele. She became drawn to 60s psychedelic rock including the likes of The Doors and Jimi Hendrix and she continues to incorporate Chloe said the recording process ideas from that era into modern was stress free and the band times. For “Perfume,” the songs are recorded most of the instrumentals all about a type of love; whether its
“I honestly couldn’t have asked for more as far as the amount of support we received when the EP was released.” in one session at their friend J.t. O’Neal’s home studio while vocals were recorded in a separate session at James’ place. The six track EP is a melting pot of R&B, soul, jazz and funk that mix upbeat catchy rhythms with slower, tender ballads. A freestyle piano voice demo by Chloe was split into the intro and outro to complete the package. “I honestly couldn’t have asked for more as far as the amount of support we received when the EP was released,” Chloe said. “We had an incredibly successful release party at our band house, we were given a nod in The Advocate’s Best Regional Music of 2016 list, and you can hear us on the radio daily so I’m just thankful.” 46
along to songs that they know so the bars that hold live music try to cater to that. What they don’t realize is that people really love original music and will pay for it… when it’s good. You just have to do the work of finding those original bands that are making good shit. That’s what I’m trying to do with my band.” Alabaster Stag have become local town favorites, but have also been making its mark to audiences around the world. Chloe said the biggest key to being heard in the growing digital age is to have business savvy and to utilize all resources to separate one’s music from the over-saturation in the market.
“The ease at which people can create and distribute music nowadays is unlike anything everyday folks were capable of in the past,” Chloe said. “You can make an entire album from an iPhone, post it to Soundcloud, and bam; you’re an artist with a new release… It’s key that we make romantic, spiritual, or the feelings of ourselves standout in an enormous desperation attached to love. Chloe pond of people trying to do the said part of this was because she was same thing.” not very emotionally expressive in her daily life and these songs were a The band has stood out from its way of working through that. contemporaries with the release of “Perfume,” which showcases just Despite forming and performing how much variety and substance in Baton Rouge, a city known for can be created when people from being a cover band capitol, Chloe different experiences come together said she did not feel the need to and share one vision. Chloe said the win people over with the band’s band’s main message for the world original material. Alabaster Stag has is the importance of self-expression not been negatively received by an and that it must be expressed audience for playing original songs through whatever positive means it to a crowd that wants to hear covers. can. “I think the people in my hometown are largely creatures of habit and that extends to their entertainment consumption,” Chloe said. “People want to go out and have fun and sing
“Never allow yourself to be silenced by oppressive forces or conditions, especially as an artist,” Chloe said. “Stay the course and use the voice you’ve been given.”
Alabaster “Somebody performing
Stag’s live video for Smile” showcases the band the jazzy, inspired groover
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ANIESZKA B
Solo Artist Interview
orn in Papua New Guinea, Australian-based Anieszka has been making waves with her latest single “Vibe.” Anieszka spoke with ETV about her musical influences growing up, the making behind some of her songs, and why she thinks 2017 will be her year.
brother and sister would always be playing that good old school R&B so that really shaped my music preferences. The classics weren’t too far, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder are also huge influences for me, they really embody what it is to be an artist and speak through music.”
Growing up, Anieszka said she listened to a wide variety of music, especially Bob Marley, citing his “Legend” album as one of her all-time favorites. Alicia Keys was a female artist who had a profound effect on her songwriting due to her ability to not be afraid to sing about the truth. This is something Anieszka has taken and applied to her own music so that her listeners can feel the authenticity in her songs.
Her interest in music and performing stemmed from an early age, as Anieszka recalls performing in front of a live audience for the first time at age 9 where she sang a verse of “Wind Beneath My Wings” at school.
“Coming from a Mauritian background, I also listened to a lot of Sega (Mauritian music) and seggae (Mauritian infused reggae), so I was surrounded by those island sounds from a very young age,” Anieszka said. “Apart from that, R&B was very popular in our household. My
She would go on to sing in larger school talent shows and would give her first real singing debut at a fivestar hotel in Fiji as a guest, which happened to be an impromptu performance.
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“I remember feeling so nervous right before I started singing, but once I was singing, I felt so at home,” Anieszka said.
“The band found out I sang and asked me to sing a set,” Anieszka said. “Before I knew it, there I was singing ‘If I Ain’t Got You’ by Alicia Keys in front of a big, foreign crowd. It was an amazing feeling. I feel like I am my truest self when I am singing and performing, it’s who I am.” By the time Anieszka became 14, she had decided to take her music to the next level. Her brother was making music at the time and she walked into his room demanding that he give her a beat to write to. She wound up writing “Boy,” a track produced by her brother Steffan Rayne in 2008. The song made it to German charts and on local radio stations in Sydney, Australia. “My brother listened to what I wrote and had that ‘wow this is actually good’ look in his eyes,” Anieszka said. “He tweaked it a little and ‘Boy’ was born. The song was fresh and people were loving it. As a young’n who was starting to notice guys more and more, I found that guys my age lacked confidence and
chivalry, so the song reflected what the ‘perfect boy’ would be like.”
you say, how you speak and to think quick. I learnt to trust myself more through the experience, and to let Through the success of the song and go so I could have fun.” having it played on national radio, she knew she wanted to pursue Later in 2012, Anieszka chose to take singing as a career. She released her a break from music to understand self-titled EP in 2012 featuring five herself better as an individual. She songs, including “Boy,” and soon said that being engrossed in music after she released “How I like It” and the industry from age 14 to and collaborated with Dominican 18 while in school didn’t give her producer Eduardo Baldera on the a chance to truly know herself, dance/house single “Lost in You,” something she thinks is vital for which was a unique change in sound making real music. She wanted to for her. During this time, she also feel inspired again to reconnect with got the opportunity to be a co-host what music really meant to her and on a local radio station. with what she wanted to achieve with music and her voice. “I co-hosted a radio show in Mauritius and it was awesome, we “In my time away, I traveled, I spent spoke about music and life, and I time with my family, friends, I got to do a few a capella covers on spent time with my spiritual teacher live radio.” Anieszka said. “It was (Amma, also known as the Hugging my birthday the next day so they Saint) and really connected with brought a cake in as a surprise and myself on a soul level,” Anieszka this all went down while we were said. “I became a clearer version of live so all the reactions were 100 myself. I spent two months in India, percent real and I loved it. It really which opened my eyes to a different teaches you to be comfortable in world and understanding of life, then your own skin, be aware of what I spent time in Mauritius, which is
“I spent two months in India, which opened my eyes to a different world and understanding of life, then I spent time in Mauritius, which is my home country, and felt so blessed to experience my island and reconnect with my culture.” - Anieszka
Photography: The Jitana 49
“Hopefully, by this time next year, I’ll have an album out, be touring, and my name will be known.” - Anieszka
with sharing a musical and physical connection, it’s the ‘perfect vibe’. When I wrote the song, I pictured a sunny, care-free day where you’ve broken free from everything holding you back, your body’s moving to this amazing music and you’re really connecting with someone. As time passes by, you’re both vibing – mentally, physically “I also learnt more about meditation, made new friends, and musically – and it’s a whole experience – that’s what fell in love, had my heart broken, became self-reliant, let ‘Vibe’ is about.” go of the need to be perfect with my music or to look a certain way, and grew to appreciate my own company. With new music on the way, Anieszka feels like 2017 In appreciating my own company, that’s where the real, will be her year, stating that “Vibe” is only the beginning raw songwriting came through, and some of these songs with much more to come. She said the next single she is currently working on is more in line with the R&B/soul will be on the album.” music she wants to make. Through her newfound experiences, she has evolved her songwriting and recently released the track “Vibe,” “This next track may form as part of an EP, or I may which she describes as a fun summer jam that is a blend continue working on more music and put it towards an album,” Anieszka said. “Either way – there’s more music of electro pop and R&B and dance. coming. I’m also currently working on a small project “I’ve come up with a tag line for it: ‘Vibe is like with another artist, so keep a lookout. Hopefully, by this watermelon, it’s the perfect match for summer,” time next year, I’ll have an album out, be touring, and Anieszka said. “For me, when you vibe with something my name will be known.” or someone, could be pizza or Drake, you connect with it, there’s a natural flow. And music, well that’s a vibe Anieszka will be working on her album while traveling of its own. Often, we come across things that we vibe around the world to take in different sounds and cultures with day-to-day, but coming across someone that you for inspiration and is looking forward to experiencing vibe with on a number of levels is a rarity. Mixed in music in foreign lands with unique people. my home country, and felt so blessed to experience my island and reconnect with my culture. Spending time in New York, London, Paris – that was just as amazing, but in different ways. Traveling enriches you as a person and lets your mind expand and grow.
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Photo via Midnight Snack
he Asheville-based indie band Midnight Snack released its third full-length album “Child’s Eyes” in April this year. Lead vocalist and drummer Jack Victor spoke with ETV about the making of the album, the challenges they faced, and plans for the rest of 2017.
As for the meaning of the song’s lyrics, Jack said he likes to let the audience decide.
“The first two songs were ‘Luna’ and ‘Back to The Source’ and each of those kind of set the tone for the rest of the album,” Jack said. “From that point on I tried to focus on writing songs that were deeply personal and also songs that either illustrate time passing or looking back.”
“We had as much time as we needed to finish the record, so we took our time,” Jack said. “The hardest aspect was deciding when to be done. I think we could have just continued polishing it forever.”
“I’ve always felt that whoever is listening to the music is the authority on what a song means, because it is a subjective experience,” Jack said. “That said, the themes I was writing within were longing for a loved The band was started by brothers Jack Victor (vocals, one and reflecting on growing up. We had just moved drums) and Mike Henry Johnson (guitar, synth) before to Asheville, North Carolina around the time we were their enrollment in college. They added classmates working on ‘Child’s Eyes’ and I think the set change Peter Brownlee (bass) and Zack Kardon (guitar) and helped to inspire some of these thoughts.” old friend, Katie Richter (vocals, trumpet) to complete the five-piece and have quickly been making a name for Despite the experience of dealing with the technical themselves. Jack said he started writing the songs for limitations of their own studio, including microphones, “Child’s Eyes” when the band was on tour in 2014, a tour sound isolation and glitchy software, it also allowed that lasted several months, allowing for him to come up the band new freedoms. They could take as long as with enough ideas that he would try out whenever he they wanted to record without having to worry about could get to a piano. meeting deadlines.
The band is currently on tour concluding at the Asheville The album took two years to write, arrange and record. Barnaroo 2017 on Sept. 30. They are also working on The sound transformed as time went on, specifically another track. Beyond that, Midnight Snack is leaving due to this being the first record they made in their own their options open for what’s to come. studio and having to deal with the technical limitations that endeavor entails. Another first for this album was “It’s tough for us to look too far down the line,” Jack said. the writing process, where several arrangements were “Hopefully many more shows and records!” recorded in the studio before playing them as a group. 51
Image via Sean Sisti
Brixton Typewriter Solo Artist Interview
Sean Sisti discusses the making behind his latest EP, the components behind his songwriting, and plans for the future
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ailing from Utica, New York, Brixton Typewriter is the do-it-yourself indie musical project by Sean Sisti. He plays all the instruments himself, a task that is well within the realm of his talents. He recently released his “Cold & Tired EP” in March.
relatives are musicians so it makes sense that I picked up music at a young age.”
Sean wants to one day play in a proper band, a dream that perhaps formed after he saw his dad playing in his own band. As early as 5th grade, right after getting Sean got into music at a young age, taking piano lessons his first guitar, Sean and some of his friends attempted around age 6, playing cello at age 8, and getting his to start a band. Things didn’t quite take off but ever first guitar at age 10, which he said was the start of his since then, Sean has wanted to perform music in some musical journey. capacity, even as a hobby. Throughout the years, he has performed in the school orchestra and did a year of Jazz “Music is in my blood–both my parents are musicians,” band in high school. Sean said. “Numerous other family members and 52
The beginning of Brixton Typewriter began when Sean got his keytar, which was packaged with a copy of digital software Ableton Live 8 Lite.
songs that he self-described as sounding like bits and pieces of other things coming out of a broken AM radio or a cassette player from across the room.
“I took some time to learn the software, and just started Sean’s approach to recording is to start off in a blank recording,” Sean said. “By the time I had a few demos, I state and find either a sound, sight or feeling that serves figured I should come up with a name to call the project. as a foundation for building the song. This allows for The name comes from the first two things I saw at my every song to go in a unique path as experimentation desk, a copy of ‘Live at Brixton Academy’ by Simon and exploration are used as tools to help develop the Parkes and a rusted old Remington typewriter. I liked final product. This approach can be heard on the first the ambiguity of it. It left me a lot of leg-room. It didn’t Brixton Typewriter’s debut EP titled “Sunday Night suggest a solo artist, a in an Attic” released in band, a duo, etc. Looking February 2016. The EP is a “If you do go in to record collection of experimental back, I should’ve named specifically, nine and indie rock tracks it something different but something I commit to my mistakes.” times out of ten, you’ll come that range in an array of musical styles, from the out with something different.” Part of recording new opener’s “Closer to You” music required getting whimsical nature to the a hold of new instruments, something that may have Western-inspired “Gunslinger’s Funeral.” The EP truly turned into an addiction. Sean tries to get a hold of as is a glimpse into Sean’s mind as he discovers his own many instruments as he can whether they’re new or muse. weird, and from anywhere he can, including from out of dumpsters. He has acquired a mandolin, a keytar, an “There have been very few times where I go in accordion, a reed organ, and the list goes on. knowing exactly what to record,” Sean said. “If you do go in to record something specifically, nine times “As for prowess, I never really spent a lot of time with out of ten, you’ll come out with something different.” one single instrument, I liked floating from one to the other, but that could also be the reason why I’m Once the sight, sound, or feeling, or a combination of mediocre at everything,” Sean said. “Honestly, I’d rather the three has been decided upon, Sean likes to draw be mediocre at many things than be pigeon-holed into inspiration from his favorite artists and then try emulating one corner of music.” different genres. One song titled “Go In, Mr. Waits” has Sean emulating Tom Waits, a personal hero of his. Being able to record everything turned out to be easier than he imagined, and soon after Sean started created “As for the sight part, sometimes I’ll close my eyes and
Brixton Typewriter’s new “Cold & Tired” EP is a journey through lo-fi, experimental, and shoegaze sounds with a narrative about being dissatisfied with the world in its current state. Listen to the full EP at bandcamp: h t t p s : // b r i x t o n t y p e w r i t e r . b a n d c a m p.c o m
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“Sunday Night in an Attic EP” is the debut production of Sean’s Sisti’s Brixton Typewriter, released on February 28, 2016. The seven track EP is an indie rock experiment that ties together different styles and ideas together.
picture something and try to recreate that scene through music,” Sean said. “‘Route 13’ from ‘Cold & Tired’ is a good example of that. I closed my eyes and pictured a dark and winding road carved through a thick forest of pines. I wanted something cold and mysterious to represent that.”
with more people recently so I look forward to the future in that respect,” Sean said. “Hopefully someday I can get a proper live-band going on.”
Brixton Typewriter’s third and most recent release “Cold & Tired” is an EP where Sean challenged himself Sean continued, “Feelings are probably the ones I utilize to playing guitar better. He wanted to jump back into the most. ‘I Don’t Want to Go’ from ‘Human Resources’ recording right after finishing his first album and did so by recording around 50 is about the feeling of the demos and excerpts over end of a long journey, “I have been collaborating with the course of a year. Once and not being ready to say goodbye. It’s a song of more people recently... Hopefully the themes of the songs bittersweet farewells. It’s a someday I can get a proper live- started to form, a story began to emerge. really nice song and I don’t band going on.” think my first recording of “’Cold & Tired’ is, at its it does it justice.” literal, the story of someone dissatisfied with the world Brixton Typewriter’s second release was the album in its current state (‘Red’), hung up on the past (‘Class of “Human Resources” in May 2016. Whereas the debut 1998’), and who decides to liberate themselves from the EP was an experimentation in recording and writing, corruption of the world and their own history to achieve the follow-up was built upon that foundation and some level of comfort or inner peace (‘Runaway’),” focused on featuring songs that were fun to listen to Sean said. “The mystery and hardships of the world with atmosphere to along with it. Sean said he dragged outside their hometown become apparent and they try his friends and family to help in some areas, such as to escape once again, this time by trying to fall asleep (‘Route 13,’ ‘Insomniac’). Through a dream sequence playing solos on sax, trumpet, and guitar. filled with air-raid sirens and bombs (‘Grey Escadrille’), “I loved doing it and I actually have been collaborating the protagonist realizes that their hometown is a safe 54
Released on May 27, 2016, “Human Resources” is an album by Sean Sisti (keyboard, guitar, bass, drums), and musical partners Dave Sisti (lead guitar), Madison Wyman (sax), and Sam Marthage (trumpet), who all collaborated on a few of its tracks.
haven, a place of nostalgia, love and memories and they start to make their way back home (‘Dreamer’). One of the hardest parts of writing instrumentals is saying everything you need to say by saying nothing at all.”
it’s the reception I get from people who listen. That’s why I do what I do. My end goal is to make people feel something, feel nostalgia, pain, happiness, sorrow, and so on. I’ve had someone call one of my songs (I think it was the epilogue from ‘Human Resources’) ‘hauntingly beautiful’ and that, to me, was an amazing feeling.”
When creating the EP, Sean furthered his recording experimentation by trying new things, such as using a VST that had a soundcard for DOS games to get unique Going on age 21, Sean is looking to take Brixton Typewriter to the next level. sounds out of and using an His plans include getting old clip from a Ronald Regan speech. Clearly, “My end goal is to make people a group together to have it’s an essential journey feel something, feel nostalgia, the ability of capturing for anyone interested in pain, happiness, sorrow, and so moments with bandmates that could not otherwise something that’s unique, on.” happen when recording new, and perhaps even a little bit quirky. and writing everything solo. Whether it’s collecting new instruments, trying new sounds, or gathering friends to record parts, Sean enjoys “Recording is nice because you have some element of every part of surrounding his musical project. He said control over the whole thing, but it only really comes he enjoys recording new music because he gets to see together at the end,” Sean said. “When you play with a group, the results are instantaneous. This, I think, his vision realized but also for other reasons. makes it a lot more soulful and exciting. Recording is “I also like the little parts, nailing a difficult riff, or very much a personal and emotional effort for me, and writing a fun bassline, accidentally playing a wrong I think it’d be interesting to get a group together and just chord that sounds good or finding the right melody that have fun, see where that goes.” makes everything perfect,” Sean said. “But, ultimately, 55
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Completing a tour for the first time as Astro Lasso, the electronic duo embraces the challenges ahead
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ork-native electronic indie duo Astro Lasso have recently released their debut EP and concluded their tour where they opened for We the Kings in more than 25 cities. Astro Lasso spoke with ETV about the group’s origins, the making of their EP, and their partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Astro Lasso is made up of Jordan Davis and Tristan Martin who have been making music together since they were kids. They were a part of Kingsfoil, a band that released several albums and opened for the likes of Ed Sheeran, Stone Temple Pilots, Goo Goo Dolls,
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21 Pilots, Creed and more. With actor Frankie Muniz filling in for drums and Tim Warren playing bass, the four-piece group were making headlines opening for Third Eye Blind. “Kingsfoil was an amazing experience but we were ready to push the envelope and do something different as a duo,” Jordan said. “Music and songwriting is a part of our DNA – it’s what we love – it almost feels like Astro Lasso formed us. It just happened and we are really happy it did.”
Images via https://astrolasso.com
Astro Lasso finished a big 26-city tour this year opening for We the Kings across the U.S. Together they like to make music that contains many elements that they themselves have a hard time describing. Although they like the electronic sounds to be incorporated into their songs, they both love playing instruments and said they would never go away from that. Tristan moved from guitar in Kingsfoil to drums in this project while Jordan sings, plays guitar and keyboards.
Astro Lasso finished a big 26-city tour opening for We the Kings across the U.S. The opening show was in Nashville on Feb. 17 this year.
“We are so grateful to We the Kings for believing in us and inviting us to be a part of their tour,” Jordan said. “To start the tour and to have first show in Nashville was amazing. At one point, I admitted to the crowd that we were nervous since it was our first performance as Astro Their influences tie in from many areas, including Beach Lasso and they reacted by giving us even more love and Boys, Red Hot Chili peppers, Ed Sheeran, Moonrise support. Months of work came together and we had so Nation, The Beatles, J Cole and Third Eye Blind, which much fun, even if we were a bit anxious at first.” allows them to try new things. They released their debut EP titled “Astro Lasso EP,” which features five songs, including the upbeat, dance-pop track “Someday.” “The making of this EP was a blast!” Jordan said. “We recorded, produced and engineered the EP in our home studios. It gives you the freedom to experiment with different ideas and takes on the songs without feeling the time pressure of a bigger studio. We have a few lyrical themes on this record. ‘Stay Safe’ touches on the music industry and the balance you have to have to run the business side of things without losing the inspiration and will be to be creative. ‘The Only Part’ is a love song and ‘Conquer’ tackles the idea of putting out love even in the face of hate or negativity.”
“It almost feels like Astro Lasso formed us. It just happened and we are really happy it did.”
Although no longer serving as drummer, Frankie Muniz is still active with music by serving as the group’s manager. “Frankie’s a great manager,” Jordan said. “It might surprise some people but Frankie loves being behind
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The music video for Astro Lasso’s “Someday” shows the duo performing out in the wild the scenes, he’s a details guy and stresses about making every little thing perfect. We’re really fortunate to have someone with his commitment and work ethic managing Astro Lasso – it’s what he enjoyed most when joined us in Kingsfoil. The bonus is getting to experience all of this with a dear friend, not the mention the fact that he logs the most miles behind the wheel, that’s really awesome!”
with the “Mentoring through Music” experience with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Frankie, Jordan and Tristan are official celebrity ambassadors, otherwise known as “BIG Champions.” The three new celebrity ambassadors will join fellow “BIG Champions” Pittsburgh Steeler Antonio Brown, Tampa Bay Buccaneer Laconte David, singer-songwriter LeToya Luckett, singer-songwriter Eric Hutchinson and actor Ryan Potter.
Astro Lasso has also made the big move in partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. They will visit local affiliates along the tour route and perform acoustic sets and mentor through music.
The duo are keeping busy with a future that consists of even more shows and more music throughout the year. Astro Lasso are on the rise and ETV looks forward to being with them every step of the way.
“It’s such an honor to be affiliated with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America,” Jordan said. “We both see the importance of mentoring and want to do our part to help the organization recruit more people to be big brothers and big sisters – there are tens of thousands of kids across the country waiting for an adult match. Music has been so critical in our lives that we thought it would be cool to encourage mentors to make it a part of their relationship with little brothers and sisters. Whether it’s attending one of our shows, taking guitar lessons, or singing karaoke, music has the power to bring people together and create memories.”
“We are so excited to have the project off the ground so we can now focus on creating the best music we could possibly make and keep a steady stream of content coming out the rest of the year!” Jordan said.
Astro Lasso encourages everyone to visit www.bbbsa. org to learn more about how to make a positive difference in the life of a kid in your community. Along
Astro Lasso EP available now! 59
Album “Memory of the World” unites heavy Review rock with textured electro vibes
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ast Giant has recently released its sophomore album “Memory of the World.” The band began as a solo project by bandleader Ryan Heise (ex- System and Station) who collaborated with a group of touring musicians to take his debut album “Heavy Habitat” out on the road. He has since teamed up with Palmer Cloud on bass and Matt Wiles on drums to create their latest release: “Memory of the World.” The opening song “Living in Photographs” starts with a techno greeting before diving into the alternative rock sound that fans have come to expect from Last Giant. The riff is poppy and fun sounding, perfect for upbeat car
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rides. The chorus is catchy and the vocals by Heise are top notch, coming together to form a proper introduction to the album. The song is about the social media lifestyle many people live and how everyone is living in the pics they post online. “Diamond Decade” follows up with a heavy riff that is edgier and rocks harder than you would expect, truly being a representation of their louder inspirations from Led Zeppelin and the like.
work well. The next song “Toys for the Devil” has a very 70s groove riff that can make anyone start headbobbing and the song’s guitar solo adds substance to the overall album that has so far lacked any standout solos.
After the four opening rock songs, “Inventory” slows things down with thought-provoking lyrics and a sentimental melody. This song shows Last Giant can go beyond the expected rockers by adding textures “The Comedian” features some to their recordings and allowing interesting keys in the beginning their instruments to propel their that soon delve into their trademark message forward. Next up is “Drastic Jane’s Addiction style grunge with Plastic,” the fastest composition that a breakdown featuring satisfying is anchored on a strong rhythm drums rolls that play off the guitar- section that carries everything along
In the band’s words: “Memory Of The World” is infused with a deep and nuanced 70’s rock sound with progressive embellishments along the way and Last Giant continues to obliterate the pretty confines of everyday rock. Images via Last Giant
at quick pace. This track seems to have punk-inspired groving bass. At this point the album has already proved its worth and any additional songs of high quality are influences but mixed in a 90s alternative atmosphere. just the cherry on top. “All the Same” features passionate “In the Calm” continues on with the expected Last screaming that demonstrate Last Giant’s dedication to Giant sound of heavy groovers layered with clear, and their craft while the closer “Saint Paul” brings it all to determined vocals. The songwriting follows the pop a close with a bluesy riff that underlines the narrative format of catchy hooks yet has unexpected twists and about the murder of innocent Philando Castile at the turns that are reminiscent of the best progressive acts. hands of police officers. The song ends the album with Also, the end of the song is intense and one of the most an over-the-top finale. aggressive performance heard so far. “Coverz” has the most bizarre opener with distorted vocals over a couple Mixing engineer Paul Malinowski (Shiner, The Life of guitars playing. It’s a welcome surprise and offers a and Times, Riddle of Steel) and co-producer Larry change of pace to keep listeners on their toes. This hybrid Crane (Sleater-Kinney, Pavement, Tape Op) did a track is part a loud-banger and part introspective toward phenomenal job at putting the great talent that is Last the end, and illustrates their progressive influences well. Giant and making the instruments and vocals stand out while blending together. “Memory of the World” is a The electro vibes kick in to start “Blood on the Road” recommended listen to anyone who enjoys heavy jams when suddenly the slow pounding drums introduce and raucous riffs fronted by a legitimate singer who the a monsterous explosion straight from Soundgarden knows how to pen catchy songs and bring us the rock with head-banging riffs, hard-jamming drums and we want. 61
Image via Blisterhead
EP Review
Blisterhead’s 4-track EP questions the government’s role in the ongoing European refugee crisis
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brand-new Blisterhead EP titled “Border Control” released on May 19 and that means anyone who enjoys 50s rock ‘n’ roll and 70s punk rock is in for a real treat. Will this EP remind everyone why this band was well respected in the Swedish street punk movement? Let’s find out. “Border Control” was recorded live in The Panic Room Studio together with Thomas “Plec” Johansson and features fast-paced guitars tailor made for fans of bands such as The Ramones, The Clash and Rancid. Thematically, the EP proposes the bold message of the ongoing current situation for refugees in Europe and how the political world mistreats and excludes people.
track delivers its purpose of sharing a divisive message through a catchy chorus. The song is an accurate portrayal of what Blisterhead is known for and it’s a great opener to get listeners juiced up for what’s to come. “Valley of the Dead” follows up with a prominent bass opening by bassist Andreas Emanuelsson. The lines “We will never be free” show the band’s lyrical approach of struggling against higher powers, a necessary ingredient in any punk revolution. The production on the songs is clean and crisp as opposed to the raw and fuzziness of most punk bands looking to break all the rules, but it’s a stylistic approach that works well and does not detract from the message. Two songs in and Blisterhead does not disappoint in delivering quality choruses wrapped up in energetic performances by all band members.
The opening track “Border Control” immediately establishes the sound the EP is going for. With fastpounding drums and rhythmic basslines complimenting The third track “Blood On Your Face” is also a headthe swirling guitars and the made-for-punk vocals, the banger and it really shows off Erik Törnqvist and Kim 62
Nilsson vocals and guitar work as they combine their talents by harmonizing well during the chorus. The song continues the fast-paced flow of the EP and keeps the adrenaline running. Closing the EP is “System Overload,” which delves in with an introspective lyrical approach that questions the government’s power and decision making. “We’re all to blame for the mess we created” speaks true of the refugee crisis and the serious nature of the lyrics really add depth to the song. The guitar solo is this track is uplifting in a world where there is no hope, and the drums are as solid as they
can be, leaving you with a feeling of wanting to listen to the EP all over again. Though the runtime is short, it provides just enough to get you interested in checking out more of the band’s discography. In the end, if you’re a true hard-core punk fan, it’s a nobrainer: “Border Control” is a definite listen. Blisterhead is known for taking riffs and basslines from different eras and providing the best punk experience you can get in today’s world, and that’s exactly what you’re going to find here. 63
The Mint Concert Review: Indie Rock on the Prowl T
he Mint showcased a variety of talent on its June 21 bill from pop-influenced singer-songwriters to hard rocking folk quartets. There was something for everyone on a busy night. The venue itself is very intimate with an up close and personal stage where patrons could enjoy a variety of food and drinks mere feet away from live performances. Singer-songwriter Emily James, originally from New York, opened the night by playing songs from her latest EP as well as some to be featured on an upcoming release. As she started singing her first song, it was apparent early on that her voice is the driving force behind her music. Along with bold lyrics and stellar performances on both guitar and keys, she used all her talents as she shared stories stemming from personal places in her life including the tale of “A Boy in Memphis” (which may or may not be based on a true story). Emily is a well-rounded musician and her voice alone is enough to get hooked on with striking similarities to the likes of Adele. She put on a good set that was well received by a full bar by the time she was finished. We look forward to seeing her again on stage and in the meantime, we have the recently released and tender “Emily James – EP” to listen to, which she collaborated with Grammy award winning producer Jacquire King and producer Ian Fitchuk.
years of performances, and on this last date of his band’s tour, everyone was in for a treat. James’ energy was contagious as it flowed from himself to his bandmates and ultimately to the audience. It was a high-octane set that went far above all expectations. Folk indie rock band Gestures & Sounds took the stage and began with the anthemic “Coach” that showed everyone what they were capable of. The mostly-Wisconsin band had moments of introspection followed immediately after by moments of rocking out, a combination not often seen by bands not sporting an electric guitar. With an acoustic guitar, melodic keys, and an intense rhythm section (not to mention the occasional harmonica), Gestures & Sounds managed to be louder and larger than the sum of their parts. Especially impressive was the drumming performance, as it took songs that would perhaps be considered tame in nature to the next level. The atmosphere at The Mint was lively and welcomed Gestures & Sounds, who returned the appreciation by putting on a solid set that shows what a group of guys who love creating music can do. Gestures & Sounds recently announced their debut full-length album titled “Bill Nye Thinks We’re a Band” will be released worldwide on September 15 this year, so be on the lookout for when it drops.
Overall, the night was a fun time to be had by all. Following up was the Bay area-native James Taugher, a Attendees who stayed longer had the opportunity Motown, funk extraordinaire who brought a full band to enjoy Cult of Positivity and Nicholas Braun, to stage to rock out. The five-piece was a solid group establishing once again that The Mint is the go-to place that excelled with soaring guitar solos, groovy keys, for experiencing young, upcoming talent. eclectic drums and sure-fire basslines. James is very comfortable on stage as he was dancing and showing off Photos by Isiah Reyes his Hip-Hop inspired vocals that are tinged with soul. Top: Emily James At one point, he split the venue down the middle and got one half of the packed venue to sing the first part of Center: James Taugher the catchy chorus and the other half to finish it off. His Bottom: Gestures & Sounds way with crowds could only have been refined through 64
Emily James’ soothing voice along with the rocking
performances by James Taugher / Gestures & Sounds
Made for a memorable June Night at The Mint 65
Los Angeles C A L E N D A R Music Scene August 2017 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
Ex-Cult w/ Enemy @ The Hi Hat
6
7
Vans Warped Tour @ Fairplex Pomona
13 Dreamcar w/ Superet @ The Fonda Theatre
20 Dave Koz, Ohio Players, Morgan James @ Hollywood Bowl
27 Marty Friedman @ The Parish at House of Blues Anaheim
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8
Accept @ Saban Theatre
14 Incubus w/ Jimmy Eat World @ Hollywood Bowl
21 DEAD CROSS @ El Rey Theatre
28 Steel Panther w/ Magentico @ The Roxy
Chevelle @ The Wiltern
9 Slayer @ Vina Robles Ampitheatre
15 Matthew Sweet w/ Tomy Keene and Chris Price @ The Echo
22 SUR w/ The Little Miss @ The Hi Hat
29 San Cisco w/ Wooing @ Teragram Ballroom
Wage War w/ Gideon & Varials @ The Roxy
10
BILLY CURRINGTON w/ Walker Hayes @ Fonda Theatre
16 KROQ Presents Royal Blood @ The Wiltern
23
Taimane /w Ruslan Sirota/ Bobbyrock, Lizzy Small, Cordelia & The Buffalo @ The Mint
30 Foreigner w/Cheap Trick @ Greek Theatre
Rag’n’Bone Man w/ Ivy Sole @ Fonda Theatre
RJ w/ Sad Boy Loko & Fresco @ The Novo
11 HANS ZIMMER LIVE ON TOUR @ Shrine Auditorium
17
18
DJ Quick & Scarface @ The Novo
Warrent and Drop 8 @ The Cave
24
25
Tobacco @ Teragram Ballroom
31 J.J. Mellon w/ Snake Oil Salesman, George Sarah Band, LKSD @ The Mint
The Australian Pink Floyd Show @ Greek Theatre
Gojira @ House of Blues Anaheim
12 JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW @ Lobero Theatre
19 Love Ghost @ Echo Park Rising
26 JIM JEFFERIES @ Terrace Theater Long Beach Convention Center
Echo Park Rising is a neighborhood event in its seventh year that focuses on the music, creativity, diversity and small businesses of Echo Park. There are multiple stages and activities throughout the weekend located on the main routes of Sunset Blvd, Glendale Blvd, Alvarado Avenue, Echo Park Avenue and beyond.
HARD Summer Music Festival is a weekend full of good vibes taking place in Fontana from Aug. 5 to Aug. 6. The lineup will include the likes of DJ Snake, Justice, Zeds Dead, Rae Sremmurd, Snoop Dogg, Dog Blood, Bassnectar, and Migos. Find out more at: http://hardfest.com/hardsummer 67
Mainfest Alhambra will be taking place at Main Street between Garfield Ave and 2nd Street in Alhambra on Sept. 9. The festival lineup includes Purity Ring, Ghostland Observatory, Broods, Classixx, Poliรงa, Poolside, Gavin Turek and more. Tickets are $65 for GA and $119 for VIP. Visit http://www.mainfestalhambra.com.
Music Tastes Good is two days of music, food and art all wrapped into one festival at the Marina Green Park in Long Beach, CA, from Sept. 30 to Oct. 1. Enjoy great music by the likes of Ween, Sleater-Kinney, Charles Bradley, Alvvays and many more. GA is $75, GA + Taste Tent is $150, and VIP is $225. For more info, visit http://mtglb.co 68
Los Angeles Music Scene
C A L E N D A R September 2017
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
Hunny w/ Hot Flash Heat Wave @ Teragram Ballroom
3
4
Squanky Kong w/ The Blue Kind @ The Mint
10 Sammy Hagar @ Glen Helen Amphitheatre
17 Power Violence @ The Satellite
24 Air Supply @ Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza
5
That’s Gold Comedy By Karl Hess & Nick Rutherford @ Bootleg Theatre
11
6 The Makers @ Seven Grand
12
Santana @ House of Blues Anaheim
18
MC Lars w/ Big O @ The Hi Hat
19
New Order w/ Golfrapp @ Hollywood Bowl
25
Earth, Wind & Fire @ Vina Robles Amphitheatre
26 SZA @ The Novo
George Thorogood and The Destroyers Rock Party Tour @ Fox Performing Arts Center
7
Jake Miller @ El Rey Theatre
13 Goo Goo Dolls w/ Philip Phillips @ Greek Theatre
20 RAC @ The Fonda Theatre
27 Barrett Martin w/ Jeff Angel, Zookeeper’s Palace @ The Mint
8
Doyle Bramhall II @ Teragram Ballroom
14 Whethan w/ Bearson Opia @ El Rey Theatre
21 Ruth B @ Roxy Theatre
28 Shilpa Ray Record Release Party @ The Satellite
Chicago @ Vina Robles Amphitheatre
9 Pixies @ Dohen State Beach
15 The Stone Foxes @ Bootleg Theatre
22 Kasabian @ The Wiltern
29 Moon Taxi w/ Too Man Zooz @ El Rey Theatre
Haim @ Arlington Theatre Santa Barbara
16 Green Day @ Rose Bowl
23 Janet Jackson @ Honda Center
30 Andy Mineo @ The Wiltern
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