Scene Trash Magazine - Issue 41

July 2010 | Issue 41

Just Surrender S I N G

I T

L O U D

|

W E

A R E

T H E

I N

C R OW D

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

1

pg.11

3 Give A Little Bit: Save The Music 3 Upcoming Tours 4 Significant Others: Epic Empire Recording Studio 4 In The News: Music & Food 6 Professions: Jason McMahon of Substream Magazine 7 Sing It Loud 8 Tales of Tats: Nick Shedlock of An Aborted Memory 10 We Are The In Crowd 11 Just Surrender 14 Book Review: Freaks & Revelations 14 Mix Tape: Summer Songs 14 Site: Last.FM 14 Movie: When You’re Strange: A Film About The Doors 2 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

GIVE A LITTLE:

V H 1 S AV E T H E M U S I C F O U N DAT ION Do you recall buying a 5 dollar recorder from your elementary school in music class, and being taught how to play “Hot Cross Buns?” Now when was the last time you used that skill? Imagine if instead of a recorder, someone put a guitar or drum kit in front of you; there’s a better chance that playing an instrument would still be part of your life. Music is one of the very first things that schools cut their funding for, especially now in the recession when many states have had huge funding cuts for public schools. VH1 and Save The Music is trying to do something about it. Since 1997, the VH1 Save The Music Foundation has provided $45 million worth of new musical instruments to more than 1,700 public schools in more than 100 cities around the country, impacting the lives of more than 1.4 million public school students. In fact, there is a really good chance that without Save The Music many of your favorite bands would not exist. However, with larger budget cuts in the school systems, Save The Music is going to have to step up even more, that’s why they need as many donations and as much support as possible. With social networking at its prime, the least you can do is tweet or post a status encouraging your friends to get involved.

Everyone should care about something, and this is a great cause to get involved with. Written by Ashley Curtis.

U P CO M I N G TO U R S ROCK YOURSELF TO SLEEP TOUR June to Late July :: In pretty much every major state and city. Every Avenue, The Secret Handshake, Sing It Loud, and There For Tomorrow. -- If you miss this, 6/1/10 you must be hibernating.

Hawthorne Heights - Skeletons S C R E A M TJack H EJohnson P R AY-EToRThe I I ISea TOUR June 30th – August 8th :: Maylene And 6 / 8Sons / 1 0Of Disaster, For Today, Blessed The Against Me! White Crosses

By A- Broken Heart, A Plea For Purging, The Color Morale, The Crimson Armada, Crystal Castles - Crystal Castles I The Breather, The Great Commission, Hanson - Shout it Out In The Midst Of Lions, Hot Hot Heat - Future Breeds and Hundredth. I you’re ready for Jesus to melt your Traviehope McCoy - Lazarus face off, Just sayinnn`.

6VANS / 1 5 WARPED /10 TOUR Drake Must - Thank me Later I really say anything more? With The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang dates from June 25th - August 15th, in pretty much every state, consisting of 6 / 2 2 /much 1 0 every genre and vendor pretty you- Fight couldthe imagine.

You’ll have fun, I American Hi-Fi Frequency promise.

Eminem - Recovery Pierce the Veil - Selfish Machines

T H E S T U C K O N R E P E AT T O U R

July 28th – August 22nd :: Stereo Sky6/29/10 line, The Audition, Cash Cash, The 3OH!3Downtown - Streets of Fiction, Gold and Cady Groves.

You’ll leave this concert with three million songs stuck in your head…

MAYHEM FESTIVAL July 7, 2010 - August 14, 2010 :: Korn and Rob Zombie are headlining? I don’t care who you are and what you listen to, I know you know who they are. I’ve gone to this tour every year it’s been in NJ now, and so far it’s been my favorite concert each summer.

You see lots of strange things and people at this concert, you’ll be amused.

REACH FOR THE SUN TOUR July 9th – August 16th :: The Dangerous Summer, Action Item, The Morning Of, Go Radio, Places and Numbers, City Lights, The Bigger Lights. Yes, I said Go Radio with Jason Lancaster!

SCREAM IT LIKE YOU MEAN IT July 8th - August 8th :: starting in dirtyjerz and ending in PA. Silverstein, Emery, DanceGavinDance, I Set My Friends On Fire, Sky Eats Airplane, Ivoryline, and Close To Home.

Yeah, it’s gonna be a fun summer.

By: Danica Gurdinak

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

3

Epic Empire Recording Studio Significant Others by Dani Tauber When I interviewed my good friend Vin a few months ago about his home recording studio, it was mostly just a concept. He knew he had the capability and the means, but everything was still in the process of “being worked out.” Now, he and his partner Jerry have their own building; a recording and practice space in the Bronx (NY), and have seriously started working with local bands and musicians. In an age where any asshole with a mixing program on his Mac and a Rock Band microphone adaptor can be the next Owl City--even if only in his own mind--I’m hoping to shed some light, with the help of Vin and Jerry of course, on what exactly it means to be ‘qualified.’ Enjoy.

the home studio into the building we’re in now.

I wanted to take on a partner to split the workload and rent with, and Jerry was an obvious choice because he’s one of my best friends and he’s just so good at hearing stuff before it’s even a part of the song. I’m actually convinced that he’s capable of time travel. Which is a subject I’m mildly obsessed with, so like I said, obvious In 2003, I had just moved back home to choice.

New York from Chicago. The band I was in, Showoff (Maverick Records), had disband- What sort of equipment do you ed and I missed NYC. I decided to enroll at use? the Audio Recording Technology Institute We have a LOT of gear. We’re total nerds about and get my degree in Audio Engineering it too, Craigslist is our best friend. We run Pro/ Production. When I finished up, I had Tools 8 HD and Logic Pro 9. We use Reason a 4.0 GPA and was a Certified Recording for a lot of the dancier stuff. We have close to Engineer and a member of the REA (Re- $30,000 worth of software and plug-ins. Varicording Engineers Association). I quickly ous mics; everything from studio mainstays like learned that the job market sucked and I the Sennheiser MD421, Shure Beta 57, and the really didn’t know what to do. One of my E609 to this Electro-Voice Cardinal that I LOVE. good friends, Tomas Costanza (of the band For amps, Jerry has a Peavey 5150 Blockhead, Diffuser), had a studio in West Babylon and I have a BadCat Cub that is probably the clostook me under his wing. He taught me a est thing I have to a child right now, and a Mesa lot about songwriting and producing and Nomad 45. We have an Orange 2x12, and a big mixing. Sometimes I catch myself saying oversized Mesa Recto 4x12. We welcome bands things to artists that I know Tomas had to use our stuff, or they can bring their own gear said to me when I was learning. Shortly if they just LOVE their familiar tone. Sometimes after that, I was in Kids of Survival and that gets...fun(?). Haha. As far as guitars go, Jerry we were touring nonstop. I put the pro- and I forget how many guitars we have someducer hat on the shelf and pursued be- times. I can’t even tell you offhand how many he ing a touring musician. When I had some has, but we definitely have a 1978 Fender Muoff time from tour, I built a home studio in sicmaster, a ‘72 Deluxe Telecaster Reissue, 2 Fermy basement, so we could start demoing nandes Natives, a Gibson Double Cut with P90’s some new KOS stuff. It felt so good to be in it, and one of the first guitars I’d ever owned, producing / mixing and being in control of an Epiphone Les Paul with a Bigsby Tailpiece. It’s our own record, that we decided to record metallic blue sparkle...I love it. our 2nd full length at home (which was titled Deliver The Message). I was so proud What bands have you worked of how that record came out that I decided with? Where could someone to start opening up my home studio to interested in giving you their other local bands, and get back into the business hear your work? world of producing. I quit KOS back in Sep- Well, since we’ve opened in February, we’ve tember of 2009, because I just couldn’t pay recorded a few bands. Right now I’m working my bills anymore. In January of 2010, my on a band called What Remains, who I think friend Chris Rocket told me that a mutual are going to put out a great EP. Jerry is finishfriend of ours, Johnny Endico (bass player ing up a band called As Days Fade, and doing a of A Moment’s Worth) had taken over the song with On Borrowed Time. And coming up lease of a building in the Bronx and was next month I’ll be heading back into the stulooking to fill rooms. I went and talked to dio with A Cruel Twist. Gary (Gordon, of Kids Of Johnny and by mid-February I had moved Survival) and I produced their last EP and they

Did you just wake up one morning and say, “Man, I should create my own studio?” How did it come into action? What makes you credible; what are your credentials?

4 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

felt like they had to come back to me; I feel special. Right now, none of these bands have released their albums yet, but if you wanna take a sneak peak/listen, you can head over to the studio’s site and check out some unmastered / maybe not fully mixed samples.

There might even be a few videos on there by the time this gets printed.

Are you affordable?

We’d like to think that we are. I mean, without getting into a long “state of the industry” rant here, the bottom line is that Jerry and I both know what it’s like to be touring musicians trying to get their name out there, while still being able to pay your phone bill and maybe even eat every so often. If a band is looking to just come in and bang out their songs, kind of like a demo, we charge an hourly rate. But even when I was first starting a band at 13 years old, I never liked the idea of an hourly rate. If we record a band who is paying hourly, they might settle on a shitty vocal take because the clock is running and it’s “good enough”. And then they put their name on it and say it was produced by me and make me look like a guy who doesn’t give a shit about you singing that note flat, ya know? It makes us both (myself and the band) look bad. So, we usually work on a persong basis, so we can make sure we get the perfect take. Our rates are usually between $250-350 a song (depending on the project, how many songs, etc.), but we really try to work with a band’s budget, because we’ve been there. We’re STILL there. I’m waiting for the month where we actually make profit.

But we won’t be happy taking that profit by screwing over bands.

What services do you provide?

A band can come to us and get the full treatment. We’ll schedule them for preproduction, usually about 2 weeks before the proposed first day of recording. We’ll run through the songs, make sure everyone knows their parts, make sure the parts make sense for the song, maybe change the key of the song if we feel like it’s out of the singer’s range or that a different key might suit

them better. Having an outside ear listen to your songs critically is really important. From there, record, mix, master, and send you on your way. If an artist had already recorded somewhere else, but isn’t happy with the mix, we’re fully down to take those sessions and remix them. Or even just master an album.

What sets you guys, and your studio, apart?

I think what sets us apart is the fact that most of the artists we deal with are still up and coming and learning the ropes. We both have years of experience of being in a band and touring, so I think there’s a certain comradery and honesty there. There are a lot of studios who just do the hourly rate, and it’s just a guy pushing a red button when you say you’re ready to go. They don’t really care how your song sounds. We care because while that band is trying to make a name for themselves with those songs, we’re trying to make a name for ourselves with the recordings of those songs.

What is your biggest goal for the studio?

I think our biggest goal would be to finally be making some profit so we can quit our other jobs and just make music for a living. Haha.

I dunno...I’d like to record an artist who gets a major label deal based upon the recordings they did here.

Even if that label doesn’t re-release those masters, it’d still be really gratifying to feel like our hard work made them stand out in the crowd and get recognition.

How can bands and musicians contact you?

Artists can contact us at: EpicEmpireRecording@gmail.com You don’t have to know Vin as closely as I do to understand how passionate he is about music. Music is, quite literally, his life. Jerry’s also. And that’s exactly how it should be. Here is some helpful information and linkage.

EPIC EMPIRE RECORDING STUDIO 1535 Stillwell Avenue Bronx, NY 10461 (Located inside Get Reel Studios) epicempirerecordingstudio.com

EPIC EMPIRE BANDS:

As Days Fade: www.myspace.com/ beyondxthexdivine What Remains: www.myspace.com/ whatremainsmusic On Borrowed Time: www.myspace. com/onborrowedtimeny

in the news:

MUSIC & FOOD

After a show the options consist of food or drinks. Eventually the bar closes, and the hunger remains. 2AM grows increasingly difficult to find edible food, especially in small towns. Large franchises like Taco Bell & Denny’s are embracing late night culture--not just embrassing but incorporating.

The introduction of late night menu’s is only step one. Wonka was the title sponsor of Bamboozle 2009, Denny’s has collaorated with tours such as Warped Tour with their Rock Star Menu, while Taco Bell’s Feed The Beat program almost single-handely fed Austin, TX for South By South West, and continues to go strong. In this interview with WIll Bortz, PR & Sponsorships at Taco Bell, he breaks down what Taco Bell’s Feed The Beat is all about. Interview by: Christine Osazuwa

How did the Feed The Beat program come about?

Taco Bell wanted to build a key influencer program that engaged up-and-coming bands and their fans. Music helps to build an emotional connection to our brand and it helps that Taco Bell is a late night destination after a concert. So we created Feed the Beat. It’s simple. Great music, free food, no strings attached. We know that lots of alternative rock bands are out on tour and need support. Our support comes in the form of free food.

Feed the Beat is a relationship, not a sponsorship and definitely a two-way street. We approach FTB bands with ideas, opportunities and welcome ideas and input from them. Bands always get the chance to opt-in, so things stay relevant to them and become authentic to both our audiences.

Whether it is feeding up-and-coming alternative rock bands on the road or building bigger relationships with those bands to help them get up-streamed, it is a lot of fun to work on. We all love music here at Taco Bell, so there is a lot of support to get bands larger reach to build their fan base. We can be a marketing partner to get more attention for their music. From partnering with MTV during VMA weekend to have a Feed the Beat concert with Cobra Starship, to putting bands like Forever the Sickest Kids and Hit the Lights on ESPN X Games highlights, we are passionate about using our marketing abilities and partners like MTV, ESPN, MLB and NBA to introduce bands to national audiences…oh, and give out food to the bands and their fans.

What is your criteria for choosing bands? Who would you say is the program’s target audience other than the bands?

It’s pretty simple. The bands have to be out on tour during late Summer or in the Fall. We look at up-andcoming bands as well as some more up-streamed bands to provide balance for the program. The program targets the bands as well as their fan base. This is a relationship between bands and Taco Bell versus sponsorship. We really appreciate the two way street the program has become. We love ideas the bands come to us with.

How has Social Networking

helped advance the program?

Digital means now gives you a wealth of information. We use Social Networking to communicate and be a discovery agent to find great music from new artists.

What do believe is the correlation between rock music and food?

They are both communal experiences. Shared passions.

The great connection to rock music and food is that they frequently are enjoyed together. Eating after a concert is a great way to extend the night and talk about the show you just saw.

How has this program helped Taco Bell’s image among the desired demographic?

It helps build an emotional connection to the brand. We love music.

What sets Taco Bell’s Feed The Beat program apart from other food sponsorship programs?

It’s all in the approach. For us, it’s great music, free food, no strings attached. We look to build relationships and have bands opt-in with ideas and programs. That approach helps keep Feed the Beat relevant and authentic.

What insight can you give me about the future of the program?

Taco Bell being the #1 quick service restaurant brand affiliated with alternative rock music. As Taco Bell grows Feed the Beat it needs to remain true to its core of supporting bands. Fans will be able to gain unique content and music from their favorite artists as well as discover new ones.

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

5

PROFESSIONS featuring Jason McMahon of:

What is your job title and what

that ran a close race were Issue 12 (Bring Me The Horizon), Issue 10 (We The Kings) and Issue 18 (Owl does it entail?

City). They are all challenging. Every issue has it’s Owner. Being the owner I find myself doing a little bit own little mishaps, delays and hurdles. The most of everything. Advertising sales, content selection, recent issue, Issue 21, was tough because we had so sponsorships, paying bills, you name it. many different elements involved. Our photo shoot was crazy! We had to get Hey Monday to California What would you say is the most and coordinate their schedule with Warped Tour’s Kevin Lyman’s schedule which was very hectic. We difficult part of the job? finally nailed it down on a Monday morning at 8 am Selling ad’s and collecting money. What makes it in Kevin’s back yard. On top of that was the fact that tough is when you get to talk to labels, bands and everyone had to get in Kevin’s pool to get the shot! managers about all the fun stuff like setting up Crazy! interviews, photo shoots and going to shows then the next day talking about advertising and money.

It’s hard to wear both hats. Deadlines kill me also!

Why did you decide to release Substream every two months versus monthly?

I felt that putting out a mag every month did not make sense for us financially nor did it make sense from a content standpoint. It also gives us a longer shelf date and more time to market the issue while it’s on the shelf. Our website I hope will fill in those gaps. I want the magazine to showcase bands. Our website can be more of a destination for news.

What has been your most successful issue? What was the most challenging issue?

From a sales standpoint, Issue 17 with Forever The Sickest Kids did really well. Other great issues

6 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

What motivated you to become involved in the music industry?

How did Substream come to fruition?

I love music and always have since I was a kid. It sounds crazy but I always felt that I heard things differently then most of my friends. We would always sit around and listen to music. I was the guy that would be pointing out certain sounds, progressions and melodies. I could hear certain instruments and sounds in songs that my friends really weren’t paying attention to. I was probably not the best person to sit down with and listen to music with! I was always breaking the song down and critiquing it.

Substream was a freak accident really. I was in Dayton, Ohio to see a band when I was approached by my previous partner Marc Young. Marc had an idea for a magazine that focused on the bands and music that many mainstream magazines did not. I got it right away! Everything Marc pitched me on made sense and I could see where the industry was headed musically. I immediately agreed to partner with him to put out an amazing magazine. It was tough getting started and it took a lot of mishaps to get to where we are now. I ended up buying Marc out about 2 years ago and decided to take a new approach. New designers, writers, more retail and a new logo.

I’m very proud of this magazine and will never forget the early days with Marc. Unfortunately Marc passed away about a year ago due to an accident. I will never forget him and to this day credit Marc for being my muse. Without him, Substream may have never existed.

What do you think the biggest misconception is about music magazines?

I think everyone is under the notion that print media is going away and I couldn’t disagree more. It’s not just because I publish a print magazine either! I feel in this day and age you have to have a happy medium. You need both. Web and print. There’s something to be said about a magazine that is on news stands and in bookstores. To be able to pick it up and flip through the pages is an experience way different then what you get from the web. The color, the smell and even the fact that you can carry it with you anywhere and not worry if you leave it on a plan or in the park makes it super easy.

Let’s face it, iPhones are great but to sit and read an entire magazine on it is way to much work. A laptop or iPad is another great tool but your always conscience of making sure not forget it somewhere or keeping it out of the rain.

working in the music business. I love working with labels and bands. The magazine gives me all of the great perks of working in this business. I love it and the best part is that it’s mine. If something goes wrong, it’s nobody else’s fault but mine. I answer to myself.

Did you attend college, if so, what was your major and has it useful with the progression of Substream?

I did. I attended the University of Cincinnati and Columbus State. I ended up with a degree in Respiratory Therapy and worked at a large hospital in Columbus, Ohio. I loved it! I really enjoyed helping people. However, I really had a passion for music and I decided to go back to school for music production and engineering. I took an internship at Quad Recording Studios in 1999 which really was the springboard for what I am doing now which is

Whom do you look to for guidance or support? Who provides inspiration or motivation for you?

My wife is my “go to”. She loves the magazine and has always been supportive from day one. Owning your own business is tough. You feel bipolar sometimes.

One day your on top of the world. The next day your at the bottom. It’s a total roller coaster ride really. Having the support at home makes all the difference. When I look at my 4 year old son and my 1 year old daughter I think that someday Substream could be theirs if they want it. That is motivation at it’s best.

How do you choose your staff and those you choose to work with?

Right now I need so much help that I try and get as many people involved as possible. If you wanna help Substream, by all means let me know. I have a very small staff that works on very little money and very big dreams. We are small and we are poor. So if your willing to deal with that, the door is open! I really need street teamers. If your willing to work for free tickets, tee shirts and magazines, you found the right place. traditional sales at retail. The publishing world has been hit with that same problem. With the inventions of smartphones, high speed interent, wifi, iPad, etc., business’s today have been forced to find a new approach to reaching people, selling product and selling ad’s. The recording industry is going digital. Will they ever stop producing tangible music? (CD’s, Vinyl, etc.) I don’t think so. Will that production decrease?

Absolutely. Just like magazines and newspapers. We will have to do the same to survive.

What do you think is the future for the music industry and for Substream?

I think the future looks good for both of us really. People will always want music and will always depend on media outlets to bring them what they want. The question is can we keep up with technology. That is the biggest hurdle for us both right now. Digital downloading forced all the labels to reevaluate their business plans that was based around traditional sales at retail. The publishing world has been hit with that same problem. With the inventions of smartphones, high speed interent, wi-fi, iPad, etc., business’s today have been forced to find a new approach to reaching people, selling product and selling ad’s. The recording industry is going digital. Will they ever stop producing tangible music? (CD’s, Vinyl, etc.) I don’t think so. Will that production decrease? Absolutely. Just like magazines and newspapers. We will have to do the same to survive.

What advice do you have for kids that want to get involved in the music industry?

Don’t kid yourself is my first advice.

If you think your gonna find a 9 to 5 music industry job and drive a $70K car around town your crazy. Be prepared to work 7 days a week for 4 days pay! You have to be passionate about it. If you stick with it and hustle, then it will all work itself out. Get an internship somewhere and take an active approach in your position.

Interview by: Christine Osazuwa

SIN G I T L O U D If you’ve ever seen a Sing It Loud set you’ve seen the young fans and the bouncing hair of lead singer, Pat Brown. Sugary sweet with a hint of indie influence.

With the new album Everything Collide, the boys departed from the sugar to mix in a bit of California sand. “I feel like our last record we pulled a lot of influence from pop punk bands and it was a lot more two guitars, bass, drums, vocals, keyboards,” says Brown. “This one has a lot more substance, we tried to make every song sound different and I think that’s the biggest difference. I think you can really tell when you listen to the two albums back to back.”

Many bands would be thrilled to have developed an identifiable signature sound with only an EP and full-length album, but Sing It Loud isn’t satisfied with being a one-trick horse. “We get criticism for everything we do,” Brown comments, “but the more criticism you get the more you’re doing right in my opinion.”

Certainly, no strangers to criticism, the Minneapolis quintet can brush off any criticism and have no problem airing their thoughts, hopes, dreams, comments, and criticism all over the internet. On any given day, their individual Twitter accounts can include a comment about groupies, girlfriends, or expressing fear about the future in one fail swoop.

“The internet is crazy because with stuff like Twitter, you can keep up with your fans and it almost feels like you have a friendship relationship with them. A lot of people and a lot of bands have refused to adapt to that and they go downhill,” Brown says simulating a downward motion with his hand.

While this openness seems to be necessary these days, one must wonder if Everything Collide were release before Come Around, would the quintet even have the same fan base that they currently share their life with over the net? If Pat had his way, on their headlining tour they’re bring out You Me & Everyone We Know, Sparks The Rescue, The Friday Night, Boys and The Summer Set. A line up composed of a considerable amount of sugary pop.

Thankfully, for the most part, it appears that the old school Sing It Loud fans aren’t going anywhere just yet. “I’ve gotten a lot of really crazy presents,” Brown says.

“Like: cakes baked for me, $100 bottles of liquor, taking me out to dinner. It’s just really crazy that someone can be like ‘Hey, I like your band, and you’re a really nice guy and you’ve had such an impact on my life that I want to treat you to this.’ And that’s just really cool to me. And even in some instances I’ve given back and bought things for some of our fans as well. I feel like a lot of bands don’t have that type of relationships we do. It’s awesome, I’m proud of it.”

“I’m kind of attention whore,” Brown states with a grin. “I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, but if people talk about you, you’re doing it right. I’d rather have people talk about me or talk about my band whether it’s good or bad than no one talk about us at all. No matter what they say, people will go look at our websites. No press is bad press; I’m a firm believer of that.”

ARTICLE BY: CHRISTINE OSAZUWA PHOTO BY: JONATHAN CHAPMAN

Issue Issue41 41SCENE SCENE TRASH TRASH| |7 7

TA L ES O F TAT S

“Well ya know I would have known [Nick Shedlock] if I had ever been close enough to actually see their faces. Everyone slaughters each other when they play so I’m never up close.”

That pretty much sums up how A N A B O R T E D M E M O R Y ’s shows usually are. Insane, fun, and the best kind of violent. N I C K S H E D L O C K , however, happens to be one of the nicest guys and is covered in tattoos making him quite fitting for this article. He’s filled with ink of numerous scenes and characters from classic horror flicks. Most of his work was done by Pat Sheridan, Desmond Mooney, and Erik ‘Q-ball’ (Tattoo artists of NJ).

Interview by: Danica Gurdinak

Did you design your tattoos? Are they all Q: Are there any subjects or ref- Q: Most of your work your ideas? erences you use frequently in is from film. Would A: They’re all my ideas but I didn’t design them. I’m very much your ink? you ever want to be a into artwork, I do a lot of my own but I’m self conscious about A: They’re all horror and film based so yeah; I director? it. It’s like the old saying “The best critic of an artist is his own.” have a ton of references. Most are from Lucio Fulci’s and Ruggero Deodato’s movies.

How’d your parents react to your first tattoo?

A: My mother would not talk to me for days because of it. I apparently screwed my body for life like it was like the plague that I got tattooed. I’ve grown up having piercings and tattoos and my mom’s always been very reserved and conservative. So in the family, I’m kind of the black sheep with my band shirts and hard music.

Do you prefer tattoos over piercings?

A: Very much so. Tattoos are more permanent and personal. It’s something that expresses your body a lot more than piercings.

You can mark up your face as much as you want and stretch your ears out to absolute shit but it won’t ever mean as much.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t dislike them but I can’t really have that, I have a job where I work full time in public and at night I’m the singer of a metal-hardcore band. It’s kind of like a batman thing going on here.

A: Yeah, movies and film, that’s my biggest love beside the band.

Everyone has asked me to do Q: Do you have a favorite style of that, I think that’s the next step. tattooing?

Stefan Ravencroft, the guy who A: I don’t prefer black and white over color or directed our new video, and I are anything, it depends on the piece. I love new going to start penning a movie in school and old school traditional. I love portrait the fall. I’m doing the whole Rob work, that’s like my entire body. I have a knack Zombie transition from being a for detail so I love things detailed on my body. hardcore-metal vocalist to going into directing, which would Q:What was your longest sitting? be everything that I’ve dreamed A: My sleeve and my chest. I’ve gone through about from when I watched nine sittings on just my chest so far and it’s still Dawn Of The Dead at ten years not completed. Each sitting is usually like two or old until now. So it’d be awethree hours. Some days I just can’t sit there and some, I’m excited. deal with it.

Q: Seeing as I get my Q: Any tattoos you despise see- first piece of ink this ing? Like Tribal? :P summer, do you any A: Yeah, tribal’s terrible. I do not like crosses, tips for first-timers?

So has anyone ever messed up on your at all. I understand it’s your religion but it’s so A: Yeah, definitely get sleep and tattoos? tacky. Why don’t people get something more eat well. It’s really important, it A: To be honest, I was actually dumb and got tribal done and had later went and got it covered up. I was young when I got it done, so leave me alone. {After giggling for a few moments at him, I forgive him for his ex-tribal tattoo.}

meaningful? There’s really cool religious artwork out there, way better than some Guido cross. If I was a tattoo artist I’d suggest that they take it to the next level and make it more original. Another tattoo I can’t stand is the tramp stamp, it’s like Q: So what are you getting next? yup really? A butterfly above your ass? I mean if A: I’m currently getting work done on my right arm than I’m butterflies fly out your ass, you’ve got a problem. starting my stomach. I’m extending my chest piece down to my stomach. I probably won’t stop there; I’ll just keep going and Q: So would you ever want to be a going. They’re addicting, I feel so empty on my right arm be- tattoo artist? cause my left is covered.

A: I’d love to. I’ve always wanted to be but it’s a tough industry to get into. If I was tattooing right Q: Do you have any links between your mu- now Danica, I would not be singing in a band. sic and your ink?

I would dedicate myself to that because I’m so A: Most of my tattoos are based on horror movies so not so into art- I love music too, I love the whole doing much. Of course we write heavier lyrics and our new video has vocals , I’ve been doing it for ten years or else I scenes from Flowers of Flesh and Blood but they don’t really wouldn’t be doing it. I’d love to try if I was given connect with each other. We’re trying to set up a new tour but the chance and apprenticed with a great artist. it’s not so easy, finally people are getting the word out.

8 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

makes a big difference. You need to be full and have some energy because you’re burning up so much adrenaline when you’re getting tattooed that you'll feel weak afterwards. The lack of sleep kills off your immune system so you feel even worse.

Q: So does it really hurt as bad everyone says?

A: No, well I mean yes. For most of the part, it’s all mental like when you can’t see the work it makes you worry more. Also, close to the bone hurts. I can sit for hours and get work done on my arm and it won’t hurt at all.

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

9

Play Like A Girl

Juliet Simms was an acoustic singer/

songwriter when in 2007 she caught everyone off guard with her killer duet with Alex Gaskarth (All Time Low), “Remembering Sunday.” Her own band, Automatic Loveletter has a bit more history. Juliet was just 15 years old when she began touring the country and over the years has worked with several great producers and labels. After a difficult falling out with Epic Records, Juliet and the latest lineup of Automatic Loveletter recorded their latest CD “Truth or Dare” under RCA records, released on June 22nd.

WE ARE THE IN CROWD Article by: Christine Osazuwa

Formed only one year prior, what do you think accounts for your rapid rise within the scene? Since you signed so soon into your band’s career how heavy of an influence has Hopeless Records been to your band?

I think the fact that we all work together has a lot to do with how quickly things are moving. A lot of the time you see a band where there is only one person involved outside of the performance, but we could never work that way. Hopeless has been great to us! The mutual support between us and the label is much like that of a family.

Guaranteed To Disagree was recently released. What has been the reaction to the new album from the fans and critics? Were you satisfied with the Glamour Kills sponsored album release show?

The reaction has been awesome! I was really nervous to see how people would respond to it, being our first release, but everything I’ve heard and read has been positive. I’m stoked! The release show was exhausting. We got there at 9am for sound check and somehow couldn’t find any time to take a nap before our set at 11pm! It was so much fun though.

There were 28+ bands playing and 3 stages. Not to mention the dunking booth in which I gladly volunteered OTHER people to get dunked in.

Poughkeepsie, NY has recently become known for MTV’s Jersey Shore’s Snookie. Do you guys watch the show?

Hahaha...guilty. It’s hilarious. It’s funny though, I remember when Poughkeepsie was known for being in that one Something Corporate song...now it’s Jersey Shore? Yikes...seems we change this...I mean, I don’t think Jordan would mind becoming the NEW princess of Poughkeepsie.

Due to the accessibility of pop bands in the internet age do you find it hard to draw a line between public and private space?

10 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

Absolutely. However, I’m a fan of it all. It’s really important to network with your fans and the more they feel they can connect with you, the better. It also gives my mom something to make fun of me for when she stalks my Facebook......I’m on to her.

What do you have to say to people that refer to you as “another pop band” or “another chick band?

I’ll refer to them as another labeler. I think its fine to categorize things, don’t get me wrong. But when did “chick band” become a genre? Haha.

Back in high school, would you say you were in the “in crowd?”

What were your focuses besides music growing up?

I was part of every crowd. I really did get along with everyone. I played sports three times a year! And I played violin from 1st grade until 12th. I think I focused on so much in high school. I wanted to over achieve everything and anything... sometimes I failed..sometimes I didn’t, but I always loved learning.

You guys will be on this year’s Vans Warped Tour. Any stories to tell about being a fan instead of playing? How have you guys been gearing up for the tour?

Yes! I’m so excited. I remember going in 2005 and running down a hill in Darien Lake, NY like a warrior in Brave Heart to see The Starting Line! Haha. I think The All American Rejects played that year too, so it’s crazy to play with them this year.

What are your plans after the summer? What’s the future hold for We Are The In Crowd?

So far we are planning on hanging out in Florida for a few weeks to write. Then some small tours on the East coast. We’re open for ideas all fall....Still looking!

Taylor Momsen may be best known as an actress on a little TV series called Gossip Girl, but she’s also gaining notoriety in the music industry. Her band, The Pretty Reckless, was formed a little over a year ago and has been gaining momentum ever since. The starlet’s band has already played Bamboozle and the release of their debut EP is rapidly approaching (July 7th). With Taylor’s killer vocals, she’s quickly proving herself to be a force to be reckoned with and she’s not even 17.

The Summer Set has drummed up a large fanbase, especially with the release of their CD “Love Like This.” The band may have a stereotypical pop rock sound. However, they have one thing that makes them stand apart from the crowd; this band of boys has a female drummer. Jess Bowen may look like your average 20 something stylish scene girl, but this girl can rock. Put Jess behind her drum kit and she’ll play harder than most of the guys on Warped Tour 2010.

VersaEmerge’s Sierra Kusterbeck proves that size has nothing to do with vocal power. Though she’s a little on the short side, her voice is one for the books.

While most 16 year old girls are out shopping with their friends, Sierra worked hard to audition for VersaEmerge, which had already received critical acclaim across Florida. VersaEmerge started off their career with a bang, selling out their first gig ever. Sierra may have lied about her age to audition for the band, but it seems that one little lie may have pushed the band to where they are today. The bands’ much anticipated “Fixed At Zero” was released on June 22nd.

All of these gnarly girls and their bands can be seen this summer on Warped Tour 2010!

Article by: Claire Ainsworth

JUST SURRENDER THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD...

Just Surrender is one of those bands. One of those bands you’ve heard of, but may not have heard. One of those bands that all your favorite bands love. The band that came through town and you meant to see but something came up. There’s a chance you might have lumped them in with the bright flashy pop bands because of their past touring roster but they’re anything but. The now five-piece band has not just played with but headlined shows and tours over We The Kings, Metro Station, All Time Low and even Matchbook Romance, yet the New York quintet can’t seem to catch that big break--but things are looking up.

Interview

by:

Christine Osazuwa | Photos

by:

Adam Elmakias | Cover

by:

Alexander Yerks

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

11

A LITTLE LEAKAGE...

In today’s music world, album’s leak. In most cases, the album is leaked unintentionally. Whether it’s through the label, the reviewers or someone else, it happens. Some labels are so fed up with leaks that they have taken extreme security measures. According to billboard.com, EMI requires journalists to “listen to the set on an iPod locked inside a clear case, with a security guard perched outside an open door.” It can be unfortunate, but artists usually try to make the most out of this unplanned situation. Here are some artists that have had to deal with album leaks:

THIRD EYE BLIND

Third Eye Blind, one of the alternative music scene’s most respected bands, had to deal with an album leak for their latest CD . While they were less than thrilled with this development, the band took measures to salvage the situation and help CD sales. To start, the band decided to stream what they called a “correct” album on their MySpace. These tracks were fully mixed and put together, unlike the version that had been leaked. Stephan Jenkins was less than thrilled, asking people who illegally downloaded the album to “donate some money to [their] local charity.” However, he was still able to take a humorous side with the situation, directing some comments to the leakers who posted the wrong copy of Ursa Major- “Shame on you for being lazy.

You guys know the lyrics and presentation are important to us. Rock on!” As well as streaming the completed album on their MySpace, Third Eye Blind decided to push the release day up by one day, hoping to salvage some sales that way.

UNDEROATH Underoath, whose album Define the Great Line was leaked through their recording studio, did not feel as much of a negative outcome from their leak as most artists; in fact, they debuted at Number 2 on the billboard charts.

However, they wanted to make it clear to listeners that the album that they were hearing early was not the album that they were going to release. It was the same track listing, but the CD was so rough that it didn’t sound anything like the final product would. Underoath claims that a band that was recording after them in the same studio found a bunch of their files from the recording process. One of the band members happened to be a huge fan of the band, and decided to hold on to the files. However, Underoath didn’t seem too torn up by the leak. According to the band, “It’s not so bad because the songs sound so bad, because they’re not mixed, not mastered, and they’re missing stuff so it’s not like the whole record got out.”

ACCEPTANCE Acceptance had serious problems with their album Phantoms leaking early.

Early might be an understatement for this band, who suffered some serious overplay by the time the CD was actually released six months after it was leaked. While, like most bands, it wasn’t the complete mix, it was close enough for listeners to enjoy for six months. Motivation to buy the actual album ran down. People who had the leaked album had become so accustomed to it that most people didn’t feel the need to support the bands sales. While the CD was enjoyed by many, it did end up being Acceptance’s last album together as a band. It’s not one-hundred-percent due to the leak, but that did take quite a toll on both Phantoms sales and the bands work.

DRAKE Drake is one of todays biggest faces in the music scene. He’s everywhere: all over TV, radio, and magazines. The unexpected happened to this superstar two weeks before his new album Thank Me Later was released: it leaked.

Drake wasn’t phased by his leak. Instead, he used the media to his advantage. Drake posted a tweet about the leak, simply saying “I gave away free music for years so we’re good over here... just allow it to be the soundtrack to your summer and ENJOY! JUNE 15!” Through his positive attitude people responded with support, retweeting the rapper and sharing their plans to support him and his new CD.

Article by Karlyn Doyle

12 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

While they’ve been signed before, their recent addition to the Razor & Tie roster is a “step in the right direction” according to singer, Jay Maffucci. “I’m excited to see how the next couple years go with them,” he adds. After the label owner’s 13-year-old son attended a Highline Ballroom show with his father, “He came up right after the show. He told us that we need to be on his label, he wanted to offer us a deal, and by the end of the next week, we signed to Razor & Tie. So basically his son hooked us up.” The label includes an endless array of artists from Bryan McKnight to Norma Jean to Twisted Sister. Just Surrender fits in with the group of misfits that can’t seem to find exactly where there place is.

Think back six years ago, what were you listening to? Who were your friends? What shows, if any, were you attending? Just Surrender has seen a music scene constantly changing and evolving.

“I’m not really into the direction that a lot of musicians are going. I’m not into the techno/rock, screamo/techno, whatever that crap is.” Maffucci confesses, “But I think the scene is just as strong as ever. There’s still bands working really hard and the good bands will keep stepping it up and the other bands will get weeded out, as they always have. I still think there are a lot of bands doing a lot of good things for our music scene and I don’t think that we’re going anywhere soon.”

As far as good bands are concerned, Just Surrender is a band many of their peers love and praise often. In a recent interview with Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low, he mentioned that Just Surrender is one of the most underrated bands out right now. “I thought that was awesome.” Maffucci says commenting on the kind words. “I’ve known them since 2005, when we toured with them and Amber Pacific, so for them to give us props and shout outs like that is awesome. It’s not my place to say if we are underrated or not, but...

I would like to think that we are.

I think The Dangerous Summer should be a lot bigger than they are. I know they’re not really underrated but that band will be huge soon and everyone should keep an eye out for them. And

Sparks The Rescue, too. I think those guys will be enormous, I really like that that first record a lot. The Morning Of, a great set of musicians--one of my favorite bands. I think they, too, will be making it in the radio rock direction.”

While the recognition is great, when a band that once opened for you is now playing to thousands of people, it might leave a chip on your shoulder. “Sometimes it’s a little discouraging.”

Maffucci says. “Circumstances are always different. It’s going to take some bands a couple months to blow up and some bands years. It’s never deterred me from working hard, but I’m proud of them. A lot of bands we tour with become my really good friends so it makes me proud and gives me hope that some day our band could be in their position. I don’t get bummed out about it, I don’t let it bring me down, it just makes me want to work harder.”

While the setbacks and member changes would deter some bands, Just Surrender continues to march on. Jay considers being around for six years, with three original members, one of the biggest accomplishments as a band (as well as a tour with Yellowcard in Japan). “We actually have two new members since the last album. Kyle Shellhammer and Jolly Ubriaco have joined the band. We moved to a five-piece band from a four piece, and we have a new label: Razor & Tie, and a new booking agency. So we’ve changed a lot. We call it Just Surrender 2.0,” Maffucci says with excitement in his voice, “I think our stage presence live is a lot better because we have an extra person at all times filling in gaps. I think energy wise it steps it up.”

Now with the new lineup, Just Surrender has released their first full-length album in over 2 years. While excitement and anticipation built for the album, it was leaked early on the internet pushing up and derailing some plans. “We were trying to wait and get some good tours to support the record being out and now we’re just home... which was never the plan.” Maffucci explains. “I think other than that, not a lot will change, we’re still going to be touring through the end of the summer and into the fall, pushing the record. I think it might affect some of the sales because we haven’t had time to promote it properly, the way we want it to, but I think it’s

definitely a better choice than letting the leaked version be out for a few more months before the record actually comes out. Maybe some kids will actually pick it up instead of illegally downloading it.” If you can’t afford the whole album “you should listen to ‘On My Own’ because it kind of gives you the idea of what the record is about and I think it is a [classic] Just Surrender song and a strong song at that.” Maffucci adds, “My favorite song on the record would be ‘Jukebox Memoirs.’ It’s a really strong song, so I hope people check that out.”

What is truly impressive is how this group of guys keep from being jaded after all these years. The usual issues arise from band life--the difficult parts: “Being away from home all the time, the insecurity, never knowing when your next paycheck is coming in.” Maffucci confesses. “As I get older it’s becoming a little more important to me, though it’s never been about the money. It does make it a little more difficult, not knowing how you’re going to eat when you’re on tour and sleeping in the van so you can pay your bills when you get home. The ones you love you don’t see much and it puts a strain and stress on every relationship, but we decided a long time ago that we’re going to do this and I don’t think anyone has changed their mind yet. Six years, we’re still pushing forward.”

“I think unlike other bands in the scene, we are not tied to the scene,” says Maffucci. “We write songs that we like and there’s a lot of different styles and genres incorporated into our sound, so you may like one song and hate the next but we give you variety. I think in our scene it might [hinder us] but in the long run when we try to make that break and step into the radio, that it will help us if anything because we will be able to be played on a lot of stations not just the alternative rock station.”

Just Surrender is one of those bands. One of those bands that ten years from now will probably still be out there doing what they love. Still out there creating great music, that they’re proud to put their names on. Still out there supporting their friends big and small, regardless if they make it big.

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

13

BOOKS

SONGS MIX TAPE: SUMMER SONGS “Downfall of Us All” - A Day to Remember

I consider this a summer song because it was all I listened to last summer. Well, the whole “Homesick” album really, but every time I hear this song it brings back so many good memories of summer for me. And who could ever forget the chant in the beginning that is just so completely necessary to sing along to?

“Like a G6” - Far East Movement

FREAKS & REVELATIONS BY DAVIDA WILLIS HURWIN Freaks and Revelations teaches you a rough lesson of two very different boys learning to accept each other. It’s a split story between a gay 13 year old and a skinhead Neo-Nazi 16 year old.

A lot of the book focuses on violent shows from the late 70’s, and then skips to 2005.

It’s filled with references to Black Flag, Minor Threat, The Ramones, The Misfits, etc. You’ll read through and identify the characters of the story with different people you know at shows (at least I did.) Freaks and Revelations is a vivid, moving novel involving homosexuality, prostitution, homelessness, shows, violence, drugs, and finally acceptance. Oh and by the way, it’s based on a true story, and you can hear it in the voice of their words. Davida Willis Hurwin did an amazing job rewriting this story. Pick it up and you won’t be able to put it down.

By: Danica Gurdinak

This song is totally “Jersey Shore-ish” but is such a summer song. It will literally be in your head for days and should be played at any party... or club because any Guido would love it.

“Wet Hot American Summer” - Cobra Starship

Any Cobra Starship song would fit into the category of summer songs, but I think this one fits the best “’cause it’s summertime, get down.”

“Walking on a Dream” - Empire of the Sun

This song is genius. It’s about being in love and is a great summer song because it gives you a happy feeling inside once it hits your speakers and that’s one of the best ways to feel during the summer.

“Prepare to be Digitally Manipulated” - Four Year Strong

One of my favorite bands to listen to during the summer is Four Year Strong. You can never go wrong with them. They’re songs are always upbeat, fun, and will put you in a good mood at any time. I picked this song because it is one of my absolute favorites by them.

“Miami” / “Summertime”- Will Smith

I saved the bests for last. I couldn’t just choose one because they’re both essential songs for the summer.

Everybody has to put these on their summer playlists and if you don’t like these songs or don’t know at least some of the words to them, I don’t know what you’ve been listening to all your life. They are both pure classics.

Others:

“Summer Hair = Forever Young” - The Academy Is...

“Warp 1.9” - The Bloody Beatroots “Crossing Our Fingers for the Summer” - Cinematic Sunrise “The Scene is Dead; Long Live the Scene” - Cobra Starship “Find Your Love” - Drake “Nighttiming” - Coconut Records “The Permanent Rain” - The Dangerous Summer “More to Lose” - The Goodnight Anthem By: Abby Dugan

14 | SCENE TRASH July ‘10

SITE

LAST.FM

I’m sure we’ve all heard of Last.fm and- let’s be honest- if you haven’t heard of it before now, you are pretty much a loser. That’s ok though, because it’s my job to give those of you who have been living under a rock since ’02 the low down. In the most basic way of putting things, Last.fm keeps track of all the shit you listen to and suggests more shit for you to listen to based on said shit.

But it does a little more than just that. The easiest way to go about things would be to use the handy dandy Scrobbler. Simply put, when you plug your iPod (Or trendy, non-iPod mp3 player. Your choice.) into your computer, it “scrobbles” all of the songs that you have previously listened to, how many times you listened to them, etcetera. If you haven’t caught on yet, scrobbling means that Last.fm just keeps track of the former. After getting a feel for your personal taste, Last.fm will also recommend “neighbors”. This means that Last.fm has noticed how shitty your taste in music is, found someone else with an equally intolerable taste, and decided that you guys are pretty compatible and will make for the best of pals. But wait! There’s more! In addition to finding you the latest and greatest, up and coming artists and new friends, Last. fm will also suggest shows depending on your musical tendencies. One of the newest features will even suggest festivals that you might be interested in, just in time for summer. So now, not only do you have awesome, new music to listen to, new buddies, and a summer full of shows ahead of you, but you are also in the loop. Congrats, you hipster, you.

By: Shannie Burroughs

MOVIE

WHEN YOU'RE STRANGE: A FILM ABOUT THE DOORS Written and directed by Tom DiCillo, When You're Strange is the first-ever feature documentary about Jim Morrison and The Doors. It has been shown at Sundance as well as many other film festivals, and gotten outstanding reviews from not only audiences, but critics as well. Along with historic and signature Doors performances, band commentary and special unseen footage takes you to the very beginning, where it all started, and onwards throughout the entire history of the band.

And as if looking at Jim Morrison for 90 minutes wasn't enough, the movie is narrated

by Johnny Depp. Yeah ladies, get on that. Along with the documentary, a soundtrack is also available. It features 13 tracks chronicling the band's 6 landmark albums. For full details and information, go to the official website: whenyourestrangemovie.com By: Dani Tauber

Scene Trash

ABOUT

Scene Trash Magazine is a monthly regional print magazine based out of Baltimore, Maryland. The staff is comprised entirely of females 21 years old and younger. Established May 2006, the magazine focuses on East Coast independent and unsigned bands as well as exploration of lifestyle, subculture, and audience related to this music.

President/Editor-In-Chief Christine Osazuwa

Content Editor Ashley Curtis

Vice President Karlyn Doyle

Photography Editor Claire Ainsworth

Editor Dani Tauber

Marketing Assistant Shannon Burroughs

STAFF Writers & Photographers Britney Strevig Ashleigh Curcio Danica Gurdinak Abby Dugan Ryan Ashley

IN-STOCK BACK ISSUES #4. July 2006: Dropout Year #5. August 2006: Group Photo #6. February 2007: Maylen & The Hint #9. May 2007: Oh The Story & Arden #10. June 2007: Dropout Year #15. November 2007: Burning Rosewood #16. December 2007: Bravo Romeo Bravo #17. January 2008: Summer So Far

#19. March 2008: The Hint #20. April 2008: The Second Sunrise #27. November 2008: Fire in the Hole #33. May 2009: Arlington Sleeps #34. July 2009: Girls Get All The Action #36. October 2009: Sent By Ravens #38. January 2010: Storm The Beaches

CONTACT

Back Issues and Subscriptions available at scenetrash.com info@scenetrash.com facebook.com/scenetrash twitter.com/scenetrash

Issue 41 SCENE TRASH |

15

BACK

Address Label