The Music Initiative

A Coast 2 Coast

cumulus /seattle cary morin /denver pilgrim /tulsa funkmnkyz /d.c.

Across the Globe

annaca /brighton, uk duch /poznan, poland bernhard eder/vienna, austria jatin puri /delhi, india

STRONAUTALI S what will he say next?

December 1, 2012 | Winter Issue

toubab krewe|anathema|tauk|ruby jane

38-47

Table of Contents

14-23

32-33

34-35

52-57

Ruby Jane 58-61

Toubab Krewe 68-73 Anathema 86-89

Coast to Coast 1:

90-97

Coast to Coast 3:

Soundbites:

98-99

A-Side/B-Side:

Maurizio Ruggiero / Miami Graham Wilkinson / Austin Kristoff Krane / Minneapolis Milo / Madison Great Divide / Chicago Glen David Andrews / New Orleans Alamantra / Birmingham Cumulus / Seattle

Find out who our readers picked as hip-hop legends

3-Day Pass:

116-145

Take a trip to hear live music at: SnowGlobe, 30A, Aura, SXSW

Monthly Spin/Spin-Off:

Album reviews from our beloved staff

64-65

Ode to the Web:

74-81

Coast to Coast 2:

YouLicense & NewAlbumReleases: New Music Headquarters

Thee Oh Sees / San Francisco Bus Driver / Los Angeles Lesser Known Characters / Portland Cary Morin / Denver Two Drag Club / Omaha Pilgrim / Tulsa RBTS Win/ Asheville Greg Schroeder / Dallas

12-13

co l um ns:

r e vi ew s :

features:

Tauk 24-29

48-49

62-63

82-83

Feather Trade / Athens Kevin Rowe / Atlanta Ryan Montbleau Band / Boston The Tarlatans / Charleston Funkmnkyz / D.C. Keith Moody / Nashville Mad Juana / New York City American Aquarium / Raleigh

Get your iPod ready for our staff-compiled playlists

Across the Globe:

Featuring 24 international cities and their rising stars

Vinyl Roots:

Follow the progression of mainstream hip-hop

Emerging Artist:

Boogie down with T. Champagne

Reel Music:

Pitch Perfect: A capella gone wild

Campus FM:

Merging Mozart and Dubstep

102-105

BalconyTV Kaunas & Brooklyn:

106-113

Musical Explorations:

146-147

Last Call:

Interviews with Sunny Aggarval & Joseph Kelly

Discover history and music in Panama

Visit the Pour House: Raleigh

Letter from the Editor

n December, I always start to make my list of goals for the following year. If we make it past December 21st, then it seems to me that we are truly reaching that "age of aquarius."

The time for a rebirth in the arts will be staring us in the face.

Let’s revere and support the people who are tasked with nurturing our souls. The musicians, the poets, the performers, the designers‌the creators.

We, at Found and The Music Initiative, are in a unique position to impact and encourage artistic growth every day, whether it be providing performance outlets through media, sharing the gospel of music through written words, or helping to initiate health alternatives to keep our muses strong.

That being said, here is my plea to you‌support music; do your part. Take an active role in your music community. Make it your mission, once a month, to pick one thing on this list. You too will change a life and foster growth.

1. Go see a live show that's not free and pay the cover.

2. Instead of buying a new shirt, go to your local music store, buy a CD, and give it to a friend.

3. Send an email to 10 friends with a link to one song that you love from an unknown artist and suggest they purchase it.

4. Find a cool t-shirt from a musician, buy it, wear it once, take a photo, post on your FB, send it to a friend and have them do the same. (Buy, Wear, Photo, Send)

5. Sign up for the free download of the free app HEAR, (www.hear.io), and promote music.

Be a catalyst,

-B

LIFELINE

There are many genres of music that have been born by combining or adding something new to previously existing musical styles in effort to create an all new sound. Country music, southern rock, blues and of course hip-hop all have their roots in other genres.

Of these, hip-hop is the epitome of the meshing of genres to create something new and fresh.

From its inception in the 1970s folks like DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa and DJ Grand Wizard Theodore are combining funk records with different drumbeats in attempts to keep their club audiences bouncing. It must have been awesome to be in a club when these ground breaking DJs would unveil a new beat that they had created that would send the crowds into a dancing frenzy. Of course, this takes place well before the pacifier sucking, glow stickwaving trance DJs eventually take the art form to…let’s just say, interesting places.

Staying true to its roots, hip-hop continues to evolve w ith artists combining different “ingredients” to create that next “it sound."

And sampling of other genres provides just the freshness that hip-hop needs to keep growing in popularity.

Sampling provides a new, yet familiar effect for a song by borrowing snippets from another song. As hip-hop grows, sampling moves seamlessly from taking simple beats

from Latin songs to sampling entire guitar riffs, sound effects, and even spoken word from other genres. Eventually it’s the genius of Run DMC, who successfully bring hip-hop and rock together with their albums Run-DMC, King of Rock and Raising Hell that launches h ip-hop into the stratosphere of the mainstream.

Hip-hop fusion is born and continues to prove successful throughout the late 80s and early 90s as acts like the Beastie Boys, Ice-T and Teddy Riley mesh their hip-hop talents with punk rock, heavy metal and rhythm and blues.

This trend appears to be a mainstay and it continues even today although the genre seems to be growing more and more generic and popish, in the mainstream at least. However, there may be some hope for hip-hop. Perhaps there is a lifeline that just might save hip-hop from its own self, and that lifeline resides in the indie hip-hop scene.

Originally known as “underground” hiphop, the gotta-have-it-now mentality of society pretty much relegates the genre to the “Indie.”

The indie scene in itself has historically been comprised of overly cerebral artists who either want total control of their music, or simply want to stick to smaller, independent labels (at least until they are discovered by the major labels).

For this reason, Indie artists traditionally do not see much mainstream success. This is primarily due to Indie label’s lack of funding and promotion connections, which are typically enjoyed by the major music labels. However, the advent of the MP3 and the movement to all things electronic are starting to even the playing field a bit more for indie artists and labels. The instant access that the general public has to artists whom they may have never been exposed to otherwise. Couple this with the general public’s new found ability to instantly share information with all of their online pals (such as where they ate lunch, what their kids are saying, oh yes, and music) means that almost any artist can become an overnight success. Just look at Justin Bieber. And yes, I still have the fever.

Enter the new era of indie music wher e hip-hopsters now have the potential to reach millions of would-be fans thanks to the social media craze. (Hit “Like” if you agree!) Artists like P.O.S., Busdriver

and Astronautalis, among many, have been carving out cult followings through the cyber world and good old fashion hard core touring. Astronautalis is a prime example of how an indie artist can find mainstream success in today’s indie market.

With his 4th album on indie label Fake Four in production, Astronautalis is taking hiphop to different and exciting new places.

Astronautalis (Andy Bothwell) is what can only be known as a genre bender. He can seamlessly hop in and out of genres ranging from hip-hop, electronica and even blues…in a single album. All of this makes it difficult to pen his music down to a single genre. This being said, hip-hop is always at the root of his music.

It is in these roots and music that hip-hop may find that elusive lifeline that will save it from drowning in the generic pop cesspool in which it currently flounders.

I, for one, believe that the new waves of indie hip-hop artists are the real deal and that several of them will not remain in the shadows of the mainstream for long. Let’s just hope it’s not too long. There is only so m uch Lil Wayne a guy can stand.

2

NEW ORLEANS BIRMINGHAMLOS MIAMI PO ATLANTA D ATHENS f e a t u r e d: CHARLESTON O /DURHAM/CHAP T ASHEVILLE NASHVILLE DENTON ASHINGTON, D.C.

ARLESTON

APEL HILL

ASHEVILLE

ASHVILLE

GTON, D.C.

YORK CITY

BOSTON

SEATTLE

NEW ORLEANS

SAN FRANCISCO

BIRMINGHAM

LOS ANGELES

MIAMI

PORTLAND

ATLANTA

DENVER

ATHENS

OMAHA

CHARLESTON

TULSA

RALEIGH/DURHAM/CHAPEL HILL

DALLAS/DENTON/FT. WORTH

ASHEVILLE

AUSTIN

NASHVILLE

MINNEAPOLIS

WASHINGTON, D.C.

MADISON

NEW YORK CITY

CHICAGO

BOSTON

2

SEATTLE S ANGELES SAN FRANCISC LOS ANGELES ORTLAND PORTLAND DENVER DENVER OMAHA OMAHA Our staff writers set out on a musical roadtrip, PEL HILL discovering the nation’s hottest local bands.

TULSA TULSA DENTON/FT. WO N/FT. WORTH AUSTIN .

NASHVILLE

WASHINGTON, D.C. NEW YORK CITY

BOSTON

TMI Hot Picks

MICHNA

(indie electronic) Bardot// Sat, Dec 15, 9pm http://ghostly.com/artists/michna

MELVIN SEALS & JGB (jam jazz) Revolution/ / Wed, Jan 9, 8pm http://www.melvinseals.com

PINK MARTINI (pop) The Fillmore//Sat, Jan 19, 8pm http://pinkmartini.com

M MIA

I

Italian born Maurizio Ruggiero, aka Submuller, is one of

Influenced by the early sounds of electronica, he merged his

the most respected and known up-and-coming DJ’s in the

knowledge of music with computers and began to compose

techno music industry. Now based out of Miami, he is one

his tracks in the early digital world. Maurizio Ruggiero is a

of the originators of the Miami avant-garde techno scene

complete artist, musician, composer, computer programmer,

with his strong house music foundation and electronic

audio engineer and mastering engineer with strong ties to

mixed four-on-the-floor beats doused with unsyncopated

Europe that combine old world with the new. His music

rhythms, designed to move any dance floor. Starting off as

is great to listen to during long drives, late night lounge

a jazz pianist and drummer in the mid 80’s, he soon got into

parties, and any social gathering in need of a pick-me-up.

electronics and computer programming.

You can find Submuller online or he is the resident at the Techno Loft at CLUB SPACE Miami.

M AU R I Z I O RU G G I E R O DJ /E

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GRAHAM WILKINSON Graham Wilkinson is an Austin legend-in-themaking. With string ties to Texas songwriters Alejandro Escovedo and Hayes Carll, his music is in a category of its own, blending roots rock, reggae and hip hop into a delicious sound. His stylish voice has a captivating stage presence and a spiritual connection with the audience at every show. Along with his catchy and witty songwriting, Graham’s live shows are uplifting and exciting, changing genres across the board from hip hop to country then rock n roll and bluegrass. His albums are one of a kind, including his latest release, The Spiritual Accessories EP, featuring the single, “Focus.” As a versatile artist, Graham has performed on a variety of stages ranging from dance clubs to Texas dance halls, entertaining cowboys to college kids.

Though Graham has toured the US off and on for years, the recent arrival of twin sons has Graham playing the family man and staying close to home.

His music can be found online at www.grahamwilkinsonmusic.com

U A

N I ST

PURITY RING

TMI Hot Picks

(future-pop) Mohawk//Tues, Jan 22, 6:30 pm http://purityringsongs.com

ALL GET OUT (rock) Stubbs/ / Sun, Dec 2, 7pm http://favoritegentlemen.com/fgrecordings/all-get-out

DOG BITE (psychedelic pop) Emos//Sat, Feb 2, 9pm http://dogbitemusic.com

K R I STO F F K RA N E With quick and inventive lyrics, a dynamic vocal presence, and backing tracks that put a modern twist to late 90’s hip hop such as A Tribe Called Quest, Kristoff Krane has been touring both the United States and Europe.

Born Christopher M. Keller is a multi-style recording artist from the Twin Cities, MN, who is known for an unpredictable and diverse style and streamof-consciousness approach to writing and freestyling. His catalog includes a book entitled The Other, and the following audio releases: Fanfaronade (2012), Prey for Paralysis (2011), Picking Flowers Next To Roadkill and Hunting for Father (2010), This Will Work For Now (2008), as well as releases with Abzorbr, Saturday Morning

Soundtrack, and Face Candy (the all-improv rap-jazz band).

Krane is also a gifted teacher and community supporter. He has worked in schools and programs across the state, implementing his creative writing program “Wanna Be A Rapper?” He also works full-time as a youth advocate at a drop-in center for homeless youth. Krane is currently performing around the Midwest and is working on a new acoustic project to add to his discography.

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TMI Hot Picks WA L K T H E M O O N (indie) Fine Line//Fri, Jan 18, 6pm http://walkthemoonband.com//indie/visual/lyrical

THE VACCINES (post punk revival) First Avenue/ / Sat, Feb 9, 8pm http://www.thevaccines.co.uk/home

THE OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS (bluegrass) The Cedar//Sat, Dec 15, 11am http://www.okeedokee.org

P MINNE A

O

L

S I

S I MA D TMI Hot Picks WAX TAILOR (post hip hop) Majestic//Wed, Feb 6, 8pm http://www.waxtailor.com

W E ST E N D M OT E L (country punk) Cactus Club//Fri, Dec 7, 10pm http://www.myspace.com/westendmotel

KELLY JOE PHELPS (blues) High Noon/ / Tues, Jan 15, 7pm http://www.kellyjorephelps.net

MILO

N O Former member of the hip hop act, Nom De Rap, Milo from Madison, WI is a veritable rapper who is trying to make the world a better place with his craft. Influences from Del the Funky Homosapien, are so heavy that his first solo album was titled I Wish My Brother Rob Was Here a tribute to his friend who passed away. Milo describes how he feels like he cannot relate to most people with honest lyrics, as an up and coming yet wise for his age hip hop artist. With a low delivery of vocal tone, he raps over odd beats with odd cynical humor and politically opinionated quick worded rhymes based on top of backing tracks that are out of the ordinary with looped electronic ambient sounds and off tempo rhythms bouncing from science fiction to philosophy.

He strays from aggression and violence using intelligent, stern lyrics and his open and comical personality as a tool to deliver hip hop tailored by nerds for nerds with a hint of toughness. You can find his latest album, Milo Takes Baths, online, which features the song, “The Confrontation at Khazad-dûm.”

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CHIC A

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The Great Divide band is the perfect addition to any music collection.

They are Chicago-based, and have a strong blues undertone with a gentle mix of funk, rock and jazz. Making a huge impression on any crowd, Great Divide are known for their energetic performances and active dance floors. Pop harmonies, syncopated stops, blues guitar and bass work, and a classic Rhodes and Hammond round out their full sound.

Core members include songwriter Teddy Grossman on vocals and guitar, Josh Teitelbaum on drums, Jeff Leibovich on electric key, Josh Kahle on bass, and Jeff Burke on guitar and vocals and feature guest horn players on some of their tracks. Originally formed in Ann Arbor, MI, building their act up in Detroit, Great Divide, relocated to Chicago a few years ago where they perform regularly, and are fresh off a late summer east coast tour to promote their latest self titled, full-length album, featuring their single, “Holiday.”

TMI Hot Picks DENNEY & THE JETS (southern rock) Schubas Tavern/Sat, Jan 12 http://www.

A M Y L AV E R E (americana) Abbey Pub/Fri, Dec 28, 8pm http://www.amylavere.com

IDAN RAICHEL PROJECT (world music) City Winery/Mon, Feb 18, 6pm http://www.citywinery.com

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G L E N DAV I D A N D R EWS What do you get when you have a powerful, raspy voice like Louis Armstrong, a commanding stage presence like James Brown, and mix in modern day funk and hip hop? The answer is Glen David Andrews, the 32 year old sensation from the heart of New Orleans. Now emerging as solo artist, Andrews has his audience singing and dancing on the bar, on the stairs, in the doorways and all the way out into the streets. He possesses a dynamic energy unlike any performer of his time with a rare form of enthusiasm linking the past to the present with spirituals, old hymns, sing-alongs and traditional jazz tunes, blended

with funk, improv and hip hop with his strong, baritone voice. Andrews’ brother Derrick Tabb, the current snare drummer for the Rebirth Brass Band, helped navigate his path towards music and by the age of 12, he discovered his gift with the trombone. Former member of New Birth Brass Band, Andrews has five albums under his belt including the live gospel CD Walking Through Heaven’s Gate. He has appeared in numerous documentaries and the first two seasons of HBO’s Treme.

L R N EW O

TMI Hot Picks TALL FIRS (folk rock) One Eyed Jacks//Wed, Jan 23, 9pm http://www.oneeyedjacks.net

MISS SOHPIE LEE (jazz) The Spotted Cat//Thurs, Feb 28, 6pm http://sophieleemusic.com

B. DOLAN (alternative hip hop) Tipitina’s//Sat, Dec 22, 9pm http://www.bdolan.net

S N EA

M BIRMINGHA THE VESPERS

TMI Hot Picks

(folk pop) Work Play//Wed, Feb 6, 7:30pm http://www.thehowlinwolf.com

D E N T M AY (pop) The Bottletree//Tues, Dec 4, 9pm www.dentmay.com

ROD PICOTT (folk) Moonlight on the Mountains//Fri, Dec 7, 9pm http://www.rodpicott.com

Alamantra of Birmingham, AL plays an eclectic sort of original music that is multi-faceted, mixing blues, psychedelic and retro jam band rock. Influenced by classics like Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and the Grateful Dead, Alamantra paints an abstract picture using colorful fluid sounds with rich rock guitars, dirty organ tones, and a Southern rock rhythm section to freeform improvisations. Originally formed in 2000 and based on the song writings of vocalist /guitarist Bobby Shiflett, Alamantra is seasoned on the stage, playing

A L A M A N T RA

rock music nightly along the gulf coast and even blending jazz, reggae and alternative country along the way. Though its lineup has changed throughout the years, the band has remained true to form. Current members include Brandon Allison on drums, Rick Glaze on bass and vocals, and Steve Casteel on guitar. Their latest album, Workingman’s Bread, including songs, “Bread” and “Ajarah Jam” is a complete package from top to bottom, and a staple for your underground music collection.

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feels l i k e y o u a r e l y i n g o n a c o u c h m a d e

S tar’s album , S o Tonig ht Tha t I Mig ht S e e.

of c l o u d s . Q u i e t , t h o u g h t f u l s o n g s a n d

Cumulus’ growing popularity is putting

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TMI Hot Picks

in t h e i r t r a c k , “ O c e a n S o n g , ” f r o m t h e i r

EMELI SANDE

f irst, se l f - ti tl e d EP. B o t h o f t h e b a n d ’s

(soul) The Crocodile//Fri, Feb 1, 8pm http://us.emelisande.com

c ore me mbe r s Alex a n d r a N i ed zi a lko ws ki and La n c e U m b l e w e r e b o r n i n w e s t e r n

JA M E S O N & T H E S O R D I D S E E D S

the

(reggae & blues rock) Nectar//Wed, Jan 9, 8pm www.sordidseeds.com

mid 80 s a nd l a t er fo un d t h e m s e lve s i n

THE PARSON RED HEADS

Ger m a n y

to

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families

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(folk rock) Tractor Tavern//Fri, Dec 14, 9:30pm http://www.theparsonredheads.com

TAuK TAuK TAuK Burning bright on the horizon rises a new band. Having been together since middle school Charlie Dolan, Alric Carter, Matt Jalbert and adding drummer Isaac Teel over the summer, Tauk's self-described “unique blend of funk, jazz, pop and rock with a fresh, experimental spirit� has emblazoned quite an impression upon the musical landscape, Even drawing comparisons to Phish and the Grateful Dead. Make no mistake about it, though, these guys are unique. While busy playing festival after festival (Bonnaroo, Hangout, Great South Bay) and opening currently for Perpetual Groove, and recently Robert Randolph and Tea Leaf Green, Tauk was gracious to grant TMI a few minutes of their time to answer a few questions.

CHARLIE DOLAN bass

MATT JALBERT guitar

ARLIC CARTER “AC” keyboard/organ

ISAAC TEEL drums

photo credits: John Dugree

What would you say is the one factor that led to you all forming a band in the first place?

MATT: Three of us grew up together playing music with each other from early on. As we got older we decided that we wanted to keep it going, so Tauk has grown from there.

What role have your family and friends played in fostering your success?

AC: They’ve been great! We really appreciate the constant support they’ve given us.

What effect did distance, as you attended college, have on the band?

AC: I believe distance was good for us overall. Being away at school allowed us time to develop as musicians and exposed us to new concepts. Given the relationship we have, it felt natural to share what we learned with each other and find ways to incorporate those new ideas in our compositions.

“we love w

and having an aweso

S

Does your band’s name take on a deeper meaning than just a shout out to its birthplace?

MATT: Originally the band name was simply that.

We just took it from Montauk. I keep meeting people who have different interpretations of what it is though. So it's been taking on its own meanings as time goes on. Now that we're instrumental, it's kind of funny that we're called Tauk. I recently heard from somebody about how TAUK stands for The Art of Universal Knowing and has something to do with communicating with the afterlife. That's a new one that I kind of like.

Not that you need a vocalist, what led to the decision, if any reason exists, to compose instrumentals?

CHARLIE: There was a point where we had every

intention of having a vocalist. During that time we had to do something musically just for ourselves at the very least. So we started writing some new material and felt a few songs carried themselves well enough instrumentally. Thats what lead to our EP.

How did you all find Isaac and how has he enhanced your overall musical lives?

CHARLIE: Isaac and I had been friends for a few

years before he started playing with us. We worked on some projects together when I was in school and became friends through that. He's been a great addition to the collective voice of the band and has really helped us step everything up to a new level.

Isaac, has the band been treating you well so far? And please tell me you’re now a permanent fixture!

ISAAC: Yes, I must say the band has welcomed me

with open arms and collective creative input rights. I would like to think I am a permanent fixture with this group, building with this band has been very progressive and insightful. I feel like the more we hang and get to know each other, the better the music sounds and the deeper the pocket gets.

How does the creative process of composing music work for you all?

AC: It changes from song to song. Sometimes one of us will bring in a complete song with specific arrangements. Other times we’ll write together in rehearsal and work out an idea based around a certain sound or feel. We’ll try a number of approaches until it feels good.

Now touring with PGroove, how did you become their choice for an opening band?

AC: We had just walked onto the Hangout Festival

grounds after we finished our set, and PGroove was playing the Xbox stage. We had never seen their live performance before and we thought our styles would complement each other. We reached out to them and they invited us to come on tour for a handful of shows. It’s been a blast to share the stage with those guys. The exposure has been great for us. Much thanks to the Pgroove camp for the opportunity.

what we do. Playing

music people to share it with is ome collective experience.

PREAD THE WORD!�

Every opportunity is a chance to learn. What are the biggest lessons you will take away from this tour?

ISAAC: I’m pretty sure the biggest lesson to learn is

patience and endurance. In all aspects of the road and life, there will be fun times, great times, uneasy times, and frustrated times. But the key is to have patience and endure because every situation, no matter positive or negative, can benefit from these essential attributes.

How did the relationship with Robert Carranza begin?

AC: We first worked with Robert on a project in 2010 and

had a positive experience working with him. I believe he understands what we’re going for musically and wants to help us achieve the goals we’ve set out.

What does he bring to the table for you guys?

AC: Robert has years of experience and success in his field that allows him to bring a number of different ideas to the table. He’s a fantastic mixer and has a great feel for where things fit in a soundscape. Overall, the recording process becomes fluid when we’re creating together.

What can Tauk fans expect from your new album, and when might it be available?

MATT: We're all really excited to get started on the new

album. We have a lot of new material, some that we've been playing at the shows and others that still have yet to be played live. So there's going to be a lot of new stuff. You never know exactly how something's going to end up when you go into the studio, but we're all really confident with the material we have already so we're expecting this album to be a good representation of what we do.

Do you all have any musical heroes or mentors?

AC: John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, John Medeski, Brian

You all have been compared to some pretty big bands (Phish, Grateful Dead) and had the opportunity to play with and for some greats such as Robert Randolph and OAR. Are these comparisons and experiences your gauge for success, or do you have a barometer for success?

CHARLIE: It’s always humbling to hear a comparison like

that. We have had some amazing opportunities to open for some of the top bands around. Being acknowledged like that is definitely encouraging and makes you feel like you're going in a good direction. Still, our gauge for success is how long we can continue to make music together and inspire each other, while also growing and connecting our fanbase as much as possible.

This summer seemed to be a festival of festivals for you all, do you get any down time and if so, how do you all unwind?

CHARLIE: I wish we could do it all over again! We are very

efficient with our down time, much of it is used for fierce competition in Mario Kart.

Are you coming to Charleston or nearby anytime soon? (There’s fried chicken and honey in it for you if you do) AC: That sounds like a good deal. We’re going to hold you to that. We take our food seriously.

If you could get one message out to your fans and soon-to-be fans, what would it be?

AC: We love what we do. Playing music and having people to share it with is an awesome collective experience.

Spread the word!

Blade just to name a few.

To hear Tauk play is a testimony to their love of music, not just talk. They will take a much needed break this winter to head into the studio with Grammy-winning producer Robert Carranza (Jack Johnson, Mars Volta) to pound out a full length follow-up to their EP ’Pull Factors'. Look for it in the near future and remember, “Spread the word”; these guys are truly a spectacle to behold, just like a sunrise.

“ o u r gauge fo r s ucces s i s h o w lo n g w e ca n

continue to make music together and inspire each other, w h i l e a l s o gro w i n g an d c o n n ec t i n g o ur fa n bas e a s mu ch as po s s i ble. �

who’s your favorite

hip hop

legend?

Eminem Aaron Thomas | Burlington, VT

Blackalicious Carl Miller | South Bend, IN

Nas

Vick Singh Myrtle Beach, SC

Biggie

Caroline Blanks | Columbia, SC

Beastie Boys Madeleine Hamer | Los Angeles, CA

Blu

Erik Paredes Palmdale, CA

tribe called quest Jason Landon Marcus | Los Angeles, CA

Outkast Matt Chandler | Greenville, SC

Matisyahu Felicia | Boston, MA

De La Soul Jon Frank | Parsippany, NJ

Salt-n-Pepa Kah Ndi | Lowell, MA

Rihanna Cachet Garrett Juno, AK

Del the Funkee Homosapien Scott Makoski | Kalamazoo, MI

3-Day Pass

WHO WHO:

The latest and greatest of electronic dance music bands and DJ’s, a few bass heads (electronic dance music junkies), some people with no idea what they’re getting themselves into at an electronic festival, and a few old souls with a flair for the disco-on-steroids that is electronica.

SnowGlobe Festival combines music, mountains and merriment to end the year in the best possible way.

The festival takes place mostly outdoors, with the only “indoor” part being held in tents—it’s perfect for snowboarders, skiers and snow lovers. Heads up, it’s going to be chilly, so pack warm!

WHAT: WHAT:

WHY: WHY

WHERE: WHERE

SnowGlobe Festival SnowGlobe Festival is a winter festival celebrating modern music, culture and the atmosphere it provides when thousands of music fanatics are together. This festival is for the EDM and electro fanatics, all gathering to celebrate the culmination of another year in style: thousands of people with a love for music, snow and life dancing into the night under the musical guidance of artists playing the cutting edge of current sound.

General admission tickets are currently available online along with some sweet travel packages to hook you up with hotel rooms in the fabulous Basecamp Hotel, including s’mores to be toasted around the hotel fire pits, a hangover kit, continental breakfast, nightly shuttles to the stages, and did I mention s’mores?

HOW: HOW

DECEMBER 29-31, 2012

South Walton, Florida

HOW: HOW

30A SONWRITERS Festival

The festival celebrates the work of the songwriters in attendance, provides the chance for old friend to reunite, allows for new music to be heard and adored and benefits art in the South Walton community. All proceeds from the festival go directly to the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

You can sign up to volunteer and attend the festival in exchange for a few shifts during the weekend, but sign up soon, the spots go fast. If you just want to take the weekend to relax, tickets are available online. There is also information on lodging packages and travel accommodations.

JANUARY 18-20, 2013

Over 125 musicians and songwriters, thousands of fans, hundreds of volunteers and The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County.

30A Songwriters Festival is an intimate, three-day music festival dedicated to bringing together artists, fans, friends and family on the beautiful beaches of South Walton. From cozy coffee shops to amphitheaters, the wide range of venues compliments the wide range of genres represented at the festival.

The audience can get up close and personal with the artist, or experience a concert-style setting while hearing the work closest to each artist’s hearts. This festival is truly about the music and songwriters—it is a time to praise their hard work and to connect with the meaning that each artist infused in their creations.

WHO WHO: WHAT: WHAT:

WHY: WHY

WHERE: WHERE

Augustine

WHO WHO:

Tickets are available online and, for a three day festival, are insanely affordable. Get them while they’re good.

HOW: HOW

To bring together friends and family for a weekend of fun, relaxation and sweet, sweet music. AURA is all about promoting the latest and greatest of the underground-jam and live-electronic bands while bringing back a rock n roll favorite, Vermont-based RAQ, who hasn’t played a live show since July 2011.

The AURA Music Festival showcases up-and-coming artists with a focus on the music that is rapidly breaking a barrier since identifying as “underground.”

Jam-tronica is a major AURA theme, but the artists in attendance incorporate a wide variety of genres in their music. AURA provides music lovers the opportunity to hear new music from around the country, soak up the sound of some of their favorites, and enjoy the community that comes with sharing a love for music. It’s all about the vibes.

WHAT: WHAT:

Aura Music and Arts Festival is all about artists known for the exceptional aura they create with their music and the fans who can’t get enough of it. Touring artists from around the region and nationally recognized bands come together to deliver an incredible festival filled with music ranging from house and jam-tronica to funk, rock and reggae. Quite the mix. Papadosio, Perpetual Groove, Conspirator, and The Heavy Pets will be headlining this year’s festival.

WHY: WHY

WHERE:

aura music Festival

FEBRUARY 15-17, 2013

MARCH 8-17, 2013

WHY: WHY HOW: HOW

Over 2,200 artists representing 49 countries with experience ranging from newbies to legends, thousands of music and film industry professionals and innovators of the latest and greatest in technology and gaming. Last year’s show lineup included Andrew Bird, 50 Cent, Bruce Springsteen, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Fun, and Mumford and Sons to name a few.

WHO WHO:

Click the Register To Attend button on right side of page, pick your badge, enter your info and prepare yourself for a life changing experience.

The South by Southwest (SXSW) Music and Media Conference and Festival is a 10-day experience complete with professional panels detailing the ins and outs of the music, film and gaming industry, demo listening sessions, trade show exhibits, film screenings, workshops, comedy shows and of course, six nights of jams at over 100 locations throughout Austin, Texas. If that wasn’t enough, there are also parties where you can promote your brand, company, or talent while getting to know other professionals in your field.

WHAT: WHAT:

Some people play music, some make films; some like to listen, some just want to watch; some know the ins and outs of making incredible music, films and video games, and others are just learning. SXSW brings together all of these people to learn from each other, share groundbreaking ideas and technology, showcase their work, network and to fall in love. Every person who attends SXSW leaves with a greater knowledge and passion for their craft. The combination of entertainment and learning creates an atmosphere unlike most festivals—and that’s what keeps people coming back.

WHERE:

SXSW music CONFERENCE

*check website for updates*

A self-proclaimed “language nerd,” “knowledge seeker,” “skateboard junkie” and “mix-tape enthusiast,” Astronautalis shatters any illusion of what the typical rapper should be.

Do you remember the first rap song you fell in love with?

“Return of the Funky Man” by Lord Finesse. Every time I hear it, I just get so excited. I know every word. It’s so far removed from the music I make now, but also there’s this sort of continual of keeping it real. It always nudged me away from making me pretend to be a badass or that I sold drugs. It helped me to get more and more comfortable in my own skin. That’s when I started to write about old dead generals and Russian chemists.

Are you influenced by writers?

Yes, Mark Helprin and specifically the book “Winter’s Tale.” His language is very flowery and dense. His writing is very sincere. There’s nothing tongue and cheek about it. He’s emotive and open in a way that a lot of people think is corny; but I am completely in love with his stories. They are huge and epic and beautiful. They represents art and history and everything I need in a book. If you listen to my record Pomegranate, the language is heightened much more than hip-hop and isn’t as conversational as This Is Our Science. I got a huge influence from his language.

Is there a defining moment when you fell in love with words?

One of the most singular moments of my life was when I had my mind completely blown when I was in college working on scansion of classical theater and breaking down the actual poetry. Shakespeare writes in iambic pentameter, but he also breaks the rules constantly. Adds an extra syllable, inverts the stress and unstress, makes all these complex changes. My professor gave us the first ten lines of Hamlet’s ‘“to be or not to be” speech to write them all out, mark all the scansion, where’s there’s inversions or incorrections.

After you got it all marked out, you’d go back and circle all of the incorrect parts—the inversions and the extra syllables, circle ‘em all. Circle the words that they’re a part of. And if you just read those words, they read like an almost perfectly structured summary of those ten lines. Like a sentence, flawless.

You can do this through 90% of his plays. When I saw that, that—just the power of the written word

became so abundant in a way that had never ever existed. There’s tons of speculation as to why he did that. One common speculation is just for direction for actors to be able to read and understand because there were no directors in his day. You didn’t even get a full script, you got sides, you got your lines and the cue line for them. But the other more beautiful, ephemeral concept was that he didn’t know he was doing it. He just inverted when he thought he was supposed to. It just came to him, and it’s sort of like a summary for himself and a summary for the audience to draw their attention to these parts. Both of those possibilities are beautiful. One is beautiful in an incredible, technical way and one is beautiful in an incredible savant way. I loved language, but that just blew everything wide open. theatre kid and

photos by: Jonathan Hoffner

Can you explain why freestyle tends to get criticized?

Freestyle is abstract expressionism. It’s like an explosion on a canvas. Part of the problem with rap and freestyling is that it suffers the burden of proof that you are actually freestyling. Rap is so much about competition, so if you freestyle really well, people tend to doubt that you didn’t take it from something. Part of its beauty is letting go of that and just enjoying the fact that it’s happening.

People should think of it as a jazz improvisational approach. I try to give a wink and a nod to the audience so they are actually part of it.

When did you feel like you really nailed it?

I really latched on after I read “Outliers.” The concept there is that 10,000 hours of practice should make you successful. I have blown way past 10,000 hours of freestyling in my life. Way past!

Like WAY past! And freestyling is my niche. When I started out, I was as bad as everyone else, every other white kid who ever tried to rap. I had no edge.

I just did it more then everybody, I worked so hard at that. I never worked hard at anything in school, but I worked hard at that.

When you first started, how many hours a day did you practice?

All day when I wasn’t talking or skating. I got to the point where I could do it in my head. I would do it while I walked my dog. I would wear ear buds and do it in class. I would run one ear bud up my sleeve and put it into my ear and pretend to be paying attention. But, I would be listening to rap music and freestyling. I started washing dishes at age 15.

I would just stare at a tile wall for an entire eight hours standing and just rap and rap and rap and rap under my breath. It’s good because washing dishes gives you a rhythm anyway, like you’re just playin’ plates.

Do you have a specific meter that you use?

No, I definitely change all over the place. I’m a theatre kid and a definite lexophile. Super language nerd. There are songs I’ve written in iambic pentameter, and others I’ve written in rhyme. The most interesting thing for me is finding more complex ways to enjoy language.

Sometimes though, the music can be so complex that you can’t understand a damn thing I’m saying. So I’ve sometimes got to reel it back.

How did the skateboarding community influence you?

Where we grew up in Florida, we all skateboarded all the time. I was a rap kid wearing winter camo and baggy jeans, and all my friends were punk/ indy rock kids. At this time, directors like Spike Jones were creating these skate videos as incredible pieces of art. This was so cool for us because these skaters were our rock stars. I still get star struck about pro skaters even if they’re 17. I’m like, “Oh my God that kid can 360 a nine stair.” We watched skate videos and that’s where our music came from. It was amazing because songs would flow perfectly. These were our visual mixtapes.

Were actual mixtapes popular when you were younger?

Oh yeah. Jacksonville was just a weird community.

There wasn’t a lot going on and the scene had died. So it was a big community of mixtapes. When you made guy friends (not just for girls), you would make tapes for each other. I still have all these. It was all about introducing people to new music. It was like look at this band I found—you can have them now. So there I would be, wearing full on hip- hop gear at a Modest Mouse concert. And while I was digging Wu-Tang Clan, I was also loving Arches of Loaf and Built to Spill.

“I’m a theatre kid and a definite lexophile.

Super language nerd.”

What has been the most challenging part about choosing a career path as a rapper?

Telling my parents. Which is hilarious because my parents are wonderfully supportive, but I was terrified because I thought that they were just going to kick me out of the house. As silly as it sounds, Eminem and 8 Mile really changed rap music. They changed what was acceptable in rap music. When I was first freestyling and battling, I had to go into the worst neighborhoods, train yards and graffiti dungeon warehouses, wherever I could to battle. Back then, the idea of being a white rapper was foreign and out of the question. Now you can go to any college town in America and there’s an open mic MC night at least once a week, generally more. America’s relationship with rap music was different, it wasn’t pop music yet. Now even Justin Beiber raps.

What was their reaction?

I didn’t tell them, actually, they found out. My older brother was a successful rap DJ in Florida. He had a gig opening up for A Tribe Called Quest and the Black Eyed Peas at the University of Florida. It was an outdoor free show with 5,000 people. I was 13 and he let me freestyle rap at the beginning. Turns out my parents were standing in the crowd, because it was my brother’s biggest gig ever. They didn’t even know I could do that. Then they were super wonderful and supportive. I owe my brother a lot for that.

When you are not freestyling, what’s your song creation process?

It’s very calculated. Word by word, line by line. It’s a writer’s process. I generally know the concept of the song and where I want it to go. I do research and prepare long before I ever write anything. I never jammed in a garage or worked with a band. I learned my artistic process from theater, from academics. I learned how to make art from making theater through being a director. When you’re a director, you read the play 10,000 times and everything you can about the play. You read about the time in history. You read about the jobs and lives of these people. You absorb everything. You read about the playwright, you read about reproductions of the play. It’s a research job, and you basically build this like physical or sort of mental corkboard in your mind of all these facts and inspiration sources and ideas and images and tearing pages out of magazines and making photocopies, and just scribbling notes and you’re just building this beautiful corkboard of all these things, and you take it, and when, when it’s full you step back and you think of the concept and the direction you really want to go. I have a really good ability to retain information.

Is that what you did for This Is Our Science?

Yes. I had these two disparate elements. I wanted to write a record about my life on tour, my travels and my exploration; but I also wanted to make a record about scientific discovery and development. I knew there was a way to make them come together and that there was a tie to bind them. I didn’t know how to get there, so I just kept absorbing both until they became so big that they bled over and all of a sudden it made sense that the process of artistic development is the same as the process of scientific development and personal development. It’s this faith, it’s this leap forward that you don’t know where you’re going, but you know there’s something there so you push yourself and push yourself and Marie Curie eats polonium, and you get on tour, and you tour until you collapse. Like, you just do these things over and over and over again ‘cause you just know what’s out there. So that’s sorta how it works.

What would be an ideal type of tour you would take?

I will do a houseboat tour on the Mississippi in a heartbeat! I am completely smitten with that idea. I’m always into the romance of travel. I love most water. I grew up a block from the Atlantic Ocean. It is 80 degrees in March and it will peek at 88 or 90 come summer. I could live in that ocean. In Seattle, I lived a few blocks from the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific Ocean is like a beautiful woman. A beautiful woman that’s totally stupid and boring in bed. It’s the most gorgeous thing to look at, but you can’t do s**t in that ocean because you will die because it is freezing cold. You literally have to wear a wetsuit so thick it could stop a 22 caliber bullet. There are killer whales and the seals are angry. Now, since I have moved to Minneapolis, I live like a few blocks from the Mississippi River. It’s amazing how fond I’ve become of it so fast. It stretches so long and it’s so very different in different regions. I never spent much time in the North on the Mississippi, but down south it’s really wide and still and slow and warm. It’s its own sort of lazy, but up north it’s really cold and clear and brisk and fast. Up here, there are all these locks and dams from the old mills. The way it flows is absolutely gorgeous. I’ve fallen madly in love with the whole thing.

But you relocated and call Minneapolis home now?

Who, musically, do you think should be paid closer attention to?

I love Minneapolis! It’s one of the most exciting music scenes in America. My circle of friends is all about music and art and writing and video and film.

It’s an incredible community of 150 people that are working in amazing ways. Minneapolis has always supported and cultivated its arts scene. They weren’t trying to be or comparing themselves to Chicago, Seattle, LA or New York. It’s a confidence thing. It resonates throughout the whole scene. People just do their own thing the best they can and the results are awesome.

Ryan Olson. Ryan Olson is a name that you probably may not recognize because he never gives himself credit for the work that he does. He is the man behind Gayngs. He also produces Polica. He sits in the background and really shapes these songs. Ryan is a mad scientist at the center of all things musical in Minneapolis. He’s got some sort of fingerprint on everything.

Sounds like the this city shares the same sentiments as your record label, Fake Four?

Yes, they do. When Fake Four approached me, they were the first record label that came to me with the truth, this is how much money we have—what do you want to do with it? So, I told them: I want xxx on the record, xxx on PR and I want to hire this person to do it, xxx deal for distribution, etc. They were the first record label to ask about how I made money, ask about my fan base, ask about the dynamic interaction with my customer base. Just simple business stuff, like you’re opening a drugstore. And they just trusted that I knew it because I’d been doing it for eight years and making money off it. They gave advice, but it was up to me. I just needed to be on budget. Fake Four is one of the most exciting record labels. They’re currently doing indie music in a way that indie record labels used to do music. They’re not shooting for the stars; they’ve got real projections on what they can be, as a label. So they keep it small, intimate. I know the guys—every band on the label.

It’s been good all around.

Who do you think is the most influential artist of the last decade?

Radiohead. Without a doubt. You can be cynical about that band all you want, but everybody pays attention to them, everybody cares, and everybody falls at their feet. Everybody. Partly, too, because they don’t fall at anybody’s feet. Except for these weird, German electronic musicians and old, dead Russian composers. They’ve cut through everything and continually changed the business of music and the art of music as well.

Who musically do you want to hang with?

David Bowie, for sure. And James Blake. I mean, my music is so dense and huge and his music is so sparse and beautiful. I just wanna ask, “How do you make two sounds and just be like, ‘yep, that’s the song! Done.’ How do you resist the urge to add strings to everything and crazy drums? How do you do that?” I’d also really like to talk to Lord Finesse, the guy that made me a rapper. I owe so much to him. I’ve been to four continents and 30 countries because I fell in love with his music 19 years ago.

We will travel to four continents and 30 countries for the next 19 years because...

we have fallen in love with you.

Emerging Artist

How has the past year with The Music Initiative been?

It’s been a rollercoaster of fun and excitement. I’ve played in a bunch of places I’ve never played before. Also, I’ve been exposed to different people I would not have come across thanks to The Music Initiative. I’ve made a lot of new friends and am very thankful for this opportunity that they gave me.

Have you experienced growth in your musical career?

Yes, The Music Initiative has helped build my social marketing platform. They have been proactive in my career as not only a performer but as a songwriter. For instance the SEC song would not have come about without The Music Initiative and the SEC tour. When I became the Emerging Artist I was just starting my official solo career. When I was in Austin I had a team of guys that were awesome and we did a lot of tours together. I do miss them, but being The Music Initiative’s Emerging Artist launched my solo career.

“Play music every day. Even if it’s singing a song in the shower, at least sing the whole song.”

Tell us about your SEC tour experience.

What “stop” did you like best?

What has been your favorite thing you’ve done with TMI?

War Eagle! I’ve always been on the road but never with a different crew of people each week. It was a really cool experience to travel with a team of people working together but not in my band. I loved playing random tents in the middle of nowhere at 11:00 am while people are drinking beers, having a good time.

Really feeling what they’re feeling, as far as the emotion attached to the game goes. That was a really cool experience. Oh and the Palmetto Cheese. I miss the cheese; I’m not going to lie. The whole thing of course was great. One my favorite “stops” would have to be the BCS National Championship in New Orleans, because of everything that is New Orleans: the scene, Louisiana, it’s an awesome town. But let’s talk about Auburn. They have a wonderful campus, everyone was cool and I got multiple opportunities to play at places that I wouldn’t have been able to without The Music Initiative.

Painting the Folly Boat was a lot of fun. That’s one of those random things you can’t do everywhere and you need a reason to do it.

How can being TMI’s Emerging Artist for a year really help a working musician?

The experience not only helps market your act and your ability, it helps spread the good word internationally. It also helps you grow as a performer and songwriter. Truly develop yourself into a better artist in the end.

Any advice for our next Emerging Artist?

Play music every day. Even if it’s singing a song in the shower, at least sing the whole song. You’ve got to stay fresh.

Lewis Law Group, LLC Group, LLC Creative Arts and Entertainment Law The Lewis Law Group, LLC was founded in 2012 in Charleston, South Carolina by William Bee Ravenel Lewis - a 16 year lawyer, professional musician and artist.

Having a unique understanding of the personal and professional challenges faced by those in the industry, he formed Lewis Law Group to combine his knowledge of, and love for, the creative arts with his many years of legal experience in such other diverse fields as aviation, banking, and general courtroom practice.

www.lewislawgroupllc.com

Lewis Law Group, LLC Lewis Law Group, LLC combines a lifelong passion for entertainment and creative arts with many years experience representing clients in negotiations and, when needed, in the court room. The Lewis Law Group, LLC is well positioned to provide representation and counseling with integrity and passion with respect to a broad range of matters encompassing the creative arts, including: Band Partnership Agreements Agency Agreements Publishing Agreements Production Agreements Management Agreements Record Company Negotiations Film and Television Internet and Wireless Copyright and Trademark Digital Rights Management Royalty Reclamation Trade Secret Protection Visual Arts Business Formation and Advice General Litigation

William Bee Ravenel Lewis, Esq. Entertainment & Sports Industries Forum (Music and Personal Appearances Committee) - American Bar Association Section of Intellectual Property Law American Bar Association Music Initiative Advisory Board

Lewis Law Group, LLC, 1 Wesley Drive, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 737 6252 (Licensed only in S.C. and legal services are provided in Charleston, S.C.)

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis / The Heist

The Seasonal Spin

Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Ben Haggerty a.k.a. Macklemore, and beat master Ryan Lewis may have just turned the entire rap game of today upside down and sideways with their sophomore album, The Heist. By refusing to sign to a label and recording all their own musicians, every song on this album is a unique, stunning success all on its own. Ryan Lewis exhibits effortless musicality, blending beautiful violins, piano, string sections and trumpets over back beats and snap-claps that sound like the missing puzzle piece to Macklemore’s poetic reality.

Macklemore seems to use rap as an outlet for his real life experiences. Shedding his vulnerability on tracks like “Wing$,” you see his disdain of conforming to people. The surprisingly moving pro-gay marriage anthem, “Same Love,” shows his passion for real life issues that plague some people’s everyday lives. Yet, he still knows how to have a good time on the hilariously bumpy and hipster clothing inspired, “Thrift Shop.”

A rapper who talks about equal rights and individualism instead of sex, drugs and woman? Why, the last time we had a rapper like that was, well…never. I guarantee this is all you will be listening to if you give it a chance.

Coheed & Cambria / The Afterman: Ascension This is a band that never disappoints when it comes to their genre of music, subsequently setting the bar for this generation of alternative rock. In their sixth studio album, Coheed & Cambria has yet again created a visual soundscape in this new two-part concept album (part two, The Afterman:Descension coming in February 2013). With many people doubting the bands credibility after their somewhat criticized 2010 release, Year of the Black Rainbow, the band is cutting all negative ties with this new Afterman series. As always, Claudio Sanchez’s perfectly shrill, at times feminine sounding vocals are showcased gorgeously with the music behind him, powerfully pushing like a storm of controlled chaos. One thing you can always count on in a C & C album? Remarkably polished transitions. At one moment is a swarm of looping guitar breakdowns, only to flow into an ominous organ.

With old drummer Josh Eppard and newcomer Zach Cooper on bass in the mix, it’s a prevailing powerhouse of musicians that will not stop rocking until they’ve melted your face off. Check out “The Afterman,” “Key Entity Extraction I: Domino the Destitute,” and “Goodnight, Fair Lady.”

For 16 years Dead Can Dance duo Brendan Perry and Lisa Gerrard have been busying themselves with other aspirations only to return to the project that launched their careers in music to new heights. For those not familiar with their work you can expect melancholic crawls of textured ambience to multi-instrumental worldly/eastern/African fusion that has populated their work previously. Anastasis is definitely a logical progression from where they left off being that there’s more actual emotional vacancy on tracks, issuing to the listener the responsibility of acquiring a taste for what’s in store; tracks like “Children of the Sun” and “Agape” build slowly and require patience but climax beautifully. As for the vocals they are top notch as ever as Lisa Gerrard remains singing in glossolalia, employing her staggering range while Brendan Perry continues to mature lyrically. All in all, Anastasis will be a worthy addition to any Dead Can Dance collection or a fresh start for new fans of a group that sounds as though they never parted ways.

Dead Can Dance / Anastasis

Bring back 90s alternative rock! The folks of Loners Society are with me on this and the influence rings true in their four track EP It’s Okay. I’m Here. Back are those catchy melodies, relatable lyrics and smooth guitar licks. Take “Outlaws & Saints,” for example. Its storytelling form could easily be on Casey Kasem’s Top 40 with fans singing along every Sunday morning. “Out of Time,” another great track inspires to never let your dreams fade no matter what the world is like around you. With the mainstream musical world of over produced pop stars; it’s refreshing to hear the work of talented musicians representing the Americana scene with, dare I say, classic sound. Unique to this day of age, Loners Society stick to what they know and produce a rocking sound.

Loners Society / It’s Okay. I’m Here Jessica Lewis - POParazziPhotography.com

Town Mountain / Leave The Bottle

Town Mountain reminds me of my grandfathers old Rambler: solid, heavy, smooooooth. Solid for the tight balance between each musician.

From the lamentation of the slow country “Loaded” to the rousing rockabilly of “Up The Ladder,” each track motors effortlessy along. Heavy for never veering from the tradititional sound of bluegrass or its intention.

Every song bears a story of commonality related to by anyone. The beauty here, though, lies in the poetic sincerity. “This life is just a long goodbye, tomorrow is just a memory” (Heavy Stone). And wow what a smooooooth ride Leave The Bottle delivers. Harmonies parallel picks and strums, thumps and fiddles just like an autumn car ride through Appalachia. How I miss that old Rambler. Thank goodness for Town Mountain.

The Werks are emerging in the jam world with several festival showcases under their belt. This show, from this year’s Summercamp Music Festival, represents why new age hippies are growing to love these guys. Bassist Dino Dimitrouleas sets the tone of the night with his heavy funky bass notes during opener “Burning Groove.” This dance-worthy tune stands true to their termed, “psychedelic dance rock” genre. As the set builds, their improvisational jams open for exploration, garnering every musician their own spotlight. Half way through their take on Grateful Dead’s “Shakedown Street” it gets a little weird with electronic flares entering in. As it begins to ease back into the recognizable song, the drums take off, transforming into the next track, “Finding Destiny.” They close out their set with a simple tune with the keys shining through, with a familiar “As My Guitar Gently Weeps” tease during guitarist, Chris Houser’s solo. The new melody gave the crowd much to groove on and left everyone satisfied.

The Werks / 5/25/2012 Summercamp Music Festival Chillicothe, IL free stream/download at http://www.archive.org

T.J. Quinton / Sorry Business

Easily one of Australia’s most promising solo artists, T.J. Quinton has been busy making a name for himself since his departure from prog/folk group The Deckchairs.

Here we have his first LP Sorry Business, an ironic name for such a spectacular debut from this Brisbane-based guitarist and vocalist. The album opens with some signature sounding acoustic 12 string finger picking on the modest track “The Owl.” His playing is enchanting in a special way as he loops riffs repeatedly without becoming stale, but mesmerizing. “Back Here” will lull listeners with its addictive chorus and punctual percussion while “Strange to Cares” ballad-style sweeping beauty is likely to become an instant favorite with its rising strings swelling with emotion alongside Quinton’s charismatic croon. The music itself is hard to pin down and name and due to its originality, will likely be loved by anyone who listens to his storytelling-style songwriting which ranges from acoustic soft rock to flavorful hip hop due to its mostly unconventional percussion. A more straightforward ‘rock’ approach can be heard on the latter track “Fifteen Bars,” a track that fleshes out all his skills combining his remarkable storytelling alongside a melancholy organ and full drum set.

Chatham County Line / Sight and Sound

Words are not easily found when speaking of Chatham County Line. They are not just a supple bass or emotional mandolin or vocal violin, nor are they just tellers of tales or singers of affective harmonies. Just down home, heartfelt, true as true can be bluegrass. Now you can listen and live the CCL experience courtesy of their latest CD/DVD combo Sight & Sound. A collection of fan favorites including the historical “Birmingham Jail,” the divine “Chip Of A Star,” and the foot-stomping “Let It Rock.” Recorded in their hometown of Raleigh, NC only adds to the magnificence of its emotion. Ever the dapper showmen clad in Sunday best, they always deliver a sweet symphony of strings. So forget words and listen, again and again and again.

If the Jacob Jeffrires Band were a playground, it would be where all the kids wanted to frolic. Clean and inviting, Tell Me Secrets swings back and forth from melodic veracity to gleeful beats to guitars see-sawing in rockin’ amusement. Jacob plays rambunctiously on the piano, singing carefree, inspiring other kids to play along. And you know what? You will play along, bopping your head, desiring to dance and rollick. Lullabies transitition into fifties style rock n’ roll, and slide into head banging fun. And in his own words, what Jacob loves to do is write songs and play them for people. Well, that love shows with every pound of the keys.

Jacob Jeffries Band / Tell Me Secrets

Ariana Gillis /

Forget Me Not

When you compose songs as great as some of your heroes Bob Dylan and Patty Griffin, you ascend into rareified air. Canadian folk singer/songwriter Ariana Gillis has rocketed herself to that stratosphere.

Having been released for almost a year now, Forget Me Not soars with provocative imagination and brutal honesty. Magical songs of monsters and humanity, saving dolphins, and a brilliant track about a sailor who walks the plank to his death and ultimate freedom. Her stunning voice, warm and robust, conveys stories rippling with animated sincerity. You might just find yourself humming or singing along with every tune. They possess a certain pop intelligence without falling into the pop category.

At her side is father David, who plays guitar or banjo on every track and produced and co-wrote many of the songs. It’s refreshing to hear such a grounded young artist orbit into greatness.

Martin Sexton /

Fall Like Rain

Martin Sexton’s popularity is no secret. Since the 90s Sexton has produced smooth, sensible lyrics while mixing multiple genres including R&B, Americana, folk, rock and country.

His latest EP Fall Like Rain falls comfortably into the preceding genres and delivers some tough and sweet life lessons. The first track, “Fall Like Rain,” is a powerful song about vulnerability and how to deal in this crazy world.

“Happy Anniversary (Six Years)” is a sweet, memorable track, harping on the little instances that define a relationship. Sexton also covers “For What It’s Worth” by Buffalo Springfield, but with an improvisational, R&B twist on a classic. Fall Like Rain is comforting, knowledgeable and wise; don’t miss out on the inspiration.

Luke Cunningham / Heart Pressures Singer/songwriter Luke Cunningham's latest release Heart Pressures is beating strong. Based out of Charleston SC, his latest album is brimming with heartbreak and the necessity of perseverance. Don't think for a second that Heart Pressure is gooey sentiment. This album rocks a’ la southern refinement.

Crisp, clean guitar ambles along behind the soulful, lyrical prowess of Luke. “Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is” oozes with sexy, reckless abandonment. Fraught with candid emotion, the gorgeous duet ballad with guest Cary Ann Hearst, “Songs About California,” surrenders the reality that breakups can be devastating to both hearts. While regret and loss permeate Heart Pressures, Luke has nothing to regret or lose with his latest triumph. Hard work can and does payoff.

Do not be fooled by the rugged bewhiskered appearance of Mike Cullison. He is a bear, a big ol’ genuine teddy bear. True to form, Mike represents country honky tonk at its finest. Set in a saloon filled with ordinary people, Barstool Monologues elegantly attempts to tell the trials and tribulations of each of its patrons.

From the Cajun seered “Prayin for Rain” to the rockin “Good and Evil” to the gospel-tipped “I Can't Let You Drink Alone,” Mike masterfully portrays human emotion. Each track has a brief intro to set up each song narrated by Hollis. Like a lazy flowing river, Barstool Monologues contains a warm beauty that comforts the soul like a mom’s hugs.

Mike Cullison / Barstool Monologues

Trick or treating at a concert may not produce a pillow case full of candy, but the unique song choice is sweet enough. A Halloween show is an experience within itself, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band returns home for this gig to give nurses, vampires and school girls one hell of a show.

Pioneers of the modern brass sound, Dirty Dozen fuses funk and blues into traditional New Orleans horns music. The best Halloween tribute song of the night, “Ain’t Nothing But A Party,” sings about what we all tend to do on a that frightful evening—“when we party, we party hardy.”

It’s a definite get down with horn sweeping runs amplifying the energy in the venue. An interesting song choice comes in mid-set with “When The Saints Go Marching In.” This childhood favorite and nod to NOLA combines jazz, zydeco and a hint of Cajun making this one song to groove to. Scared? No worries, this band will only haunt your musical dreams.

Dirty Dozen Brass Band / 10/31/2010 UNO Lakefront Arena New Orleans, LA download/stream free at www.panicstream.com

The Spin-Off

staff selected tracks from The Seasonal Spin

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Becoming increasingly recognized for her enticing vocals and purposeful lyrics, Mississippi native and 17-year old fiddle prodigy Ruby Jane gives us a youthful perspective on music.

When did music first speak to you?

Music obviously spoke to me from a very young age.

When I was two I started playing the fiddle, so it’s always been a really special part of my life. I’ve always felt like music is something that human beings can’t live without. We crave music and music seems to be a constant thing that no matter what changes in the world or where our country is; no matter what kind of generations change, we’ll always have music, some form of music. It’s funny because I was studying the Great Depression and through the Great Depression so many companies lost money and people lost money, but really the only people that thrived through it were the musicians. We all need music, it’s a very emotional thing. I always try to put a lot of emotion into my music. I think it’s a really cool way to connect with the audience and to connect with people.

Tell us about your evolution in music.

Well, I’ve played a lot of different styles over the years.

I started out playing classical and moved to bluegrass/ country and then to swing and jazz. I’ve played blues, but over the past couple of years I’ve been focusing on my band, my music, my writing and my voice. We are classifying my latest album Celebrity as eclectic pop and indie, but it has fiddle in it as well. It’s kind of a new sound that I really haven’t heard from anybody yet. I’m really excited about it.

“

We all need music, it’s a very emotional thing ”

What songs should people earmark that you feel bring out a different side in your music?

Where do you see yourself in the next three years by the time you are 21?

There’s obviously fiddle and violin in every song on the album. What makes my music is the combination of the violin and the vocals in the songs. The title track "Celebrity (empire of emptiness)" and “Wake Up” are the two I would pick.

I’ve always had very big dreams for myself. You never know, the music business is at such a fragile place right now. I really want this to be the album that really takes me to a whole new level and within the next three years I would like to have the whole world to be able to hear my music. I know that that’s kind of a big goal, but I feel really prepared with my music to share it. So I’m looking at touring as much as possible throughout the next year. I really want to focus on finding the best ways to share my music.

Any people you would like to see as your mentors?

Jeff Tweedy is a huge, huge influence of mine. I actually was thinking that exact thing while I was watching the concert. I was like, I would give anything to just say to him, “Take me on the road with you and just teach me everything that you know.” Tom Waits would be another. He’s one of the most creative people in the world. And then at the very top, Radiohead….Tom York. I really admire all three of them so much just for their creativity. They’ve really taken a step out and invented something new and that’s really what I try to do. That makes them heroes to me.

No ladies in that list?

It’s funny because I have certain female artists that I really look up to like Patty Griffin and Erykah Badu, but I’ve always, for some reason, as far as songwriting goes, I’ve always connected with male artists. My most successful co-writing sessions are with men. {giggling} Must be a brain chemistry kind of thing.

Since you are now an Austinite, let our readers in on who they should be listening to from the area.

One of my very favorites is Bob Schneider. He’s been so kind to me and supportive. And Cowboy and Indian.

They’re a newer band, but they’re really incredible musicians. Every time they play, they steal the whole night. It’s a big band, it’s kind of folky but a little rocky, it’s really hard to describe but they’re incredible. I think everyone should check out Cowboy and Indian.

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We will check them out, but everyone should check out the one Miss Ruby Jane. Austin is lucky this Mississippi gal has claimed it as her new home. The city better enjoy this gem who has it all: talent, grace and intelligence.

Reel Music

T

hink of your top-five favorite songs. Remove the guitars, the drums, the bass, and everything in between. What are you left with? The voice. Pitch Perfect rearranges 40 years of chart-topping music and delivers an ambitious and fresh a capella masterpiece that’ll leave you in a nostalgic haze.

The story centers on the rivalry between Barden University’s competitive a capella society, home to two of last year’s national qualifying teams: The Bellas & The Treblemakers. When Beca (Anna Kendrick), the freshmen with mad DJ skills, joins The Bellas, she realizes that her new crew desperately needs an update in current music and style if they want to defeat The Treblemakers at nationals.

Instead of simply having the actors sing the tunes on top of an instrumental recording, Thomas & Mason utilized the growing popularity of the a capella trend online; Youtube sensations such as Mike Tompkins and The Pentatonix have wowed the masses with their renditions of our favorites songs, breaking them down into six and seven part harmonies that never fail to please the senses.

Back in 2004, Kelly Clarkson’s hit single “Since You’ve Been Gone” had every heartbroken soul belting their newfound independence. In the film, each character with the mission of joining one of Barden University’s four a capella groups had to use the chart-topping song as an audition piece. The result? A great introduction to the demands of singing a capella.

Instead of presenting the auditions one after the other, cinematographer Julio Macat and editor Zach Chemberlene filmed each character singing a different portion of the song: three actors were responsible for the beats, three for the harmonies, and two for the melody. The shots were then edited to create one unified and electrifying performance of “Since You’ve Been Gone.”

In the film, Kendrick’s character is the last to audition. Instead of singing the required piece, she sits on the floor, pulls out a plastic cup and performs Lulu & The Lampshades “Cups (You’re Gonna Miss Me)”. Kendrick actually used this piece for her Pitch Perfect audition, and Moore was so impressed that he included it in the film – a decision that gave the track list an authentic air.

Thomas & Mason may have produced the only a capella soundtrack in the industry, but they didn’t settle there. Instead the duo challenged the actors to trek new and unconventional paths.

Let It Whip The Treblemakers

Dont’ Stop the Music The Treblemakers

4 Cups

Since U Been Gone

Anna Kendrick Mickey/Like A Virgin/Hit Me with Your Best Shot/S&M/Let’s Talk About Sex/I’ll Make Love to You/ Feels Like the First Time/No Diggity The Barden Bellas, The Treblemakers, The Bu Harmonics

7 Right

Round

The Treblemakers & My Name is Kay

Party in the U.S.A. The Barden Bellas

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The Treblemakers

Bellas Regionals: The Sign/Eternal Flame/Turn the Beat Around

The Barden Bellas Pool Mashup: Just the Way You Are/ Just a Dream The Barden Bellas

Bellas Finals: Price Tag/Don’t You (Forget About Me)/Give Me Everything/Just the Way You Are/Party in the U.S.A/Turn the Beat Around

Treble Finals: Bright Lights Bigger City/Magic

The Treblemakers

This trekking of new territory is most evident in “The Riff-Off” – a yearly tradition where all four a capella groups meet in an empty pool to sing songs inspired by random categories (e.g. Ugly Lead Singers, Ladies of the ‘80s). Here’s the catch: a group can only start a new song using the last word sang by an opposing group. For the last round, the pinwheel lands on the category “Songs About Sex” and the competition begins.

The Bellas start The Riff-Off with Rihanna’s “S&M”, “S&M,” but The Trebles answer back with Salt-N-Peppa’s “Let’s Talk About About Sex.” Sex.” The The allall-female female group quickly quickly takes back the lead with Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love

12

Toner (Instrumental Suite)

to You,” but they’re dethroned again when the “Bad Boys of A Capella” pull out Foreigners’ “It Feels Like the First Time.” In a move that shocks them all, Beca begins to rap the smooth lyrics of Blackstreet & Dr. Dre’s “No Diggity.”

Therest restisishistory. history.

Diggity”. The The Pitch Perfect soundtrack works, not because it’s the first first of its its kind, kind, but but because because producers producers’ paid paid careful attention to detail and originality. This bold and audacious track list will have you listening in amazement as the cast members hum, beat, pop, belt belt, and and drum drum their their way way through through four four decades decades of of spectacular music.

Ode to the Web

I

f you’re a real music lover, then you know how important it is to discover new music.

You probably have tons of music that you already love to listen to, but the quest for fresh music is never-ending. This goes double for musicians; uncovering music of all kinds is essential for influence into creating your own tunes. Luckily, YouLicense.com covers both effects.

On the one hand, it’s super useful in finding music that I can almost guarantee you’ve never heard of. When you get to the website, you just click one of the “mood” icons (which could be more extensive, but they cover the basics) and a huge playlist comes up with tons of original and undiscovered artists that you can listen to for free. Included is a full biography of the artist and other cool genre classification tidbits for you to rate both the quality and overall opinion of the music.

Don’t for a second think that this website is bias in its music selections. For example, if you click the “Sad” icon, you won’t get a bunch of swoony pop songs you’ve heard a hundred times. You get sad songs that range across the board of genres, which means a surprisingly epic techno ballad could conceivably bring you to tears. On the other hand, this is also an excellent place for musicians to not only upload their music and license it, but simultaneously expose and send their songs into the ears of eager music enthusiasts. It’s a win-win website that plays both sides of the field.

Newalbumreleases.net

may be, and I don’t say this lightly, the best website for getting new music. I would even go as far as to say it’s better than Billboard.com or some of the major mainstream websites. Why? Simple. A user friendly website that dishes out full albums rather than just hit singles. For music aficionados and hardcore lovers of a particular band, having the whole album is very important than just having the most popular songs from it. This website does not miss a single release. Everything from the #1 hitting album of 2012 to some obscure Christmas album, as long as it was released under a label, it’s on there.

Genres span from electronic, folk, jazz, blues, indie, metal, pop, rock and rap, and are then categorized further into specific style names so you get an exact feel for what the artist sounds like (ex.

Pop punk, indie-tronic). New entries are updated daily, and each album has a full listing of track names, format, and disk size. But here’s the big thing. Every album on the website you can download to your computer. Speaking legally, this seems a little sketchy, but there is a DMCA policy tab at the top of the website at all times for viewing, which is far more legit than any other websites like this one I have seen. All peculiar thoughts aside, this website needs to be saved and bookmarked in your toolbar for consecutive, repeated visits on the daily. So the next time someone asks you, “Know any new, good music?” you’ve got the remedy.

Embracing the traditions, music and teachings that they hold dear, Toubab Krewe weaves a truly original sound. Since 2005, The Asheville, NC-based quintet has toured relentlessly, charming audiences in the states and abroad.

Featured at Bonnaroo, High Sierra, Rothbury and Wakarusa, this instrumental powerhouse creates a dense musical tapestry, intertwining strands of rock, African traditions, jam sensibilities, and international folk strains.

toubab krewe

DREW HELLER | guitar, piano, fiddle You are currently recording your new album.

Can you give us a little preview as to a working title? Sounds? Songs you currently play live that may be included? What is the evolution from the last album?

The new record may be called Orchestra. We are collaborating with brass musicians, percussionists, singers and other musicians to create a larger experimental sound. The process of recording thus far has been a lot of fun. Expect a larger and more live sound than our last record.

What are the challenges of conveying a story or emotion in a song without lyrics?

Playing music that has no lyrical language presents both the audience and the musician the freedom and space to interpret the emotion of the music in a personal way that would otherwise already be filled with symbolic directives if there was lyrical language.

One of the challenges and responsibilities as a musician in improvisational instrumental music is to remain focused enough on the wholeness of the group sound and not become lost in one’s own world, even while foraging in the sonic wilderness for new landscapes.

Do you feel your music translates better in an inside or outside venue, or does it matter?

Our music lives inside and outside. Either way is good.

We like playing outside in the summertime more than the dead of winter though. It’s much more fun to play when you can feel and control your fingers.

Who has control of the music selection while you’re touring? What is your favorite drive time song?

We all deejay from our phones on the tour bus. Some favorites of crucial drives are Keith Frank’s “Live at Slim’s Y-Ki-Ki,” Toumani Diabate, and Ballake Sissoko’s “New Ancient Strings.”

If you could pick one way to have a race, which would you prefer: old school on foot; gladiator style with a horse and chariot; souped-up engine drag race; or jet-fueled rocket to the moon?

A foot race on the moon would be best.

Best food from Africa? worst?

Favorite food is “Baga,” a sweet porridge of grains, condensed milk, and sugar. Comfort food at it’s finest.

The airplane food on the flight to Timbuktu a few years ago was a standout “worst” meal. The safe landing made everything about the flight taste good though.

JUSTIN PERKINS | kora, kamalengoni, guitar, percussion Most people associate the kora with traditional African music. Why does that instrument appeal to you and could you describe the other traditional instruments the band uses and describe their sounds for people who have never seen or heard them?

The kora is a traditional 21 string harp/lute played throughout West Africa. Its initial appeal to me was as simple as the sound itself. It’s quite angelic to say the least. There is also the kamalengoni which is a 12 string harp from southern Mali. There are also various forms of traditional percussion from the region.

Why are you moved by African traditions?

The appeal of African music and tradition is the depth of history and culture in that part of the world. The place that music has in society is unlike anything else I’ve experienced.

How do you carry these traditions in your everyday life and through your music?

The way I carry these traditions in my life is really the role that music has in everyone’s everyday life. I suppose that it’s because as a musician, you have an obligation to provide music to the people in a good, pure, positive way.

What can fans look forward to with your pairing with John Brown’s Body on the Holiday Hurricane Tour?

Folks can look forward to good, clean—well, somewhat clean—fun. I’m sure there will be lots of collabs between both bands... and pretty much just a party.

Since you are primarily instrumental, are there ever times that you feel moved to include lyrics within your compositions or shout out a word in the live show?

In regards to lyrics, we have been singing between 4 to 6 songs a night. A li’l old-time Appalachian music, as well as chi cha music from South America.

You never really know what’s gonna present itself—that’s the funnest part about all of it—anything and everything comes to the table.

Who are your musical icons?

Keith Frank, Orchestra Baoabab, Tommy Jarrell, Slick Rick, Oumou Sangare, and Jimmy McGriff.

DAVID PRANSKY | bass, guitar If you could sit at the table tonight with a great musician from each genre—zydeco, rock ‘n’ roll, Appalachian, and West African—who would they be and what question would you ask?

Zydeco—Keith Frank Rock ‘n’ roll—Chuck Berry Appalachian—Rayna Gellert West African—Sekou Kante And the question I’d ask:

, y e H “can I pour

y’all another glass?”

Describe Manifestivus and why is it a “go-to” festival?

The Manifestivus has evolved into one of the strongest small world and arts festivals in the country. NationalGeographic.com said “Pound for pound Manifestivus continues to punch above the rest,” regarding the quality of our line up, festival environment, and production. We have A-list world artists come to the backwoods of Vermont to perform in front of 2,000 eager fans. We have found a way to represent many different aspects of a variety of music festivals into one. We have a children’s area, and last year over 300 kids were in attendance. We also have a late night vibe with deejays from around the world.

LUKE QUARANTA | djembe, percussion Recently, you had a benefit concert in New York for refugees from Mali. Could you expand a little on the crisis itself and why you organized this concert?

Mali is one of the richest musical and cultural places on earth. It is extremely diverse and home to many different ethnic groups that each have their own traditions. Music binds all of these groups together, and has been a catalyst in Mali for finding ethnic harmony amidst its diversity. Mali has been a model of stability and democracy in West Africa since the independence era. In the last year, Mali has been destabilized by a coup in its capital of Bamako, and by foreign groups of Islamist extremists that have taken control of the northern half of the country. These Islamists have imposed the harshest form of Shariah law, including banning music and dance. This has been devastating to the people in the north of the country, and over 500,000 have fled the region.

Favorite location anywhere in the world to watch a sunset?

My favorite place in the world for a sunset is in Big Sur, California. The entire band actually shared this experience sitting in natural hot spring baths overlooking the Pacific a few years ago on tour. Very beautiful place...

Give a shout out to three up-and-coming bands that have great sounds.

I really like Rubblebucket, Floating Action, and Benyoro. They are all making great music!

Can we expect anything new now that you have signed with Madison House?

I think we will continue to diversify our touring as we grow as band. We aspire to play all over the world, play more colleges/universities and performing arts centers, while we keep playing to our loyal fans all over the U.S. and at music festivals.

I know Madison House will be helping us accomplish all of these goals.

he asked me to be an ambassador to Mali, & said

Mali needed

our help.

In June, I went to see Afrocubism at Celebrate Brooklyn in Prospect Park. Afterwards, I went to dinner with my friend and world-renowned kora began planning player, Toumani Diabate. immediately.

He was very concerned with the developments in Mali and encouraged me and the band to do something to help. He asked me to be an ambassador to Mali, and said Mali needed our help.

i was inspired and

I was inspired and began planning a benefit concert immediately. The concert was held in NYC on Malian Independence Day, September 22. It was a great success, a sold out concert at NYC’s City Winery. It brought together a stellar list of Malian and American artists. Toubab Krewe, Balla Kouyate, Abdoulaye Alhassane Toure, Kelenia, Awa Sangho, Benyoro, and Banning Eyre were all on the bill. The benefit raised $10,000 for two groups working with refugees from northern Mali. Relief International is working with 15,000 refugees in neighboring Niger, and Instruments 4 Africa is assisting musicians and their families who have fled.

a beneďŹ t concert

www.toubabkrewe.com

Check out the last part of Toubab Krewe’s Holiday Hurricane Tour.

Tickets can be purchased through all venue outlets.

Pour House 12/1 The Charleston, SC Dive 12/2 High Gainesville, FL Bird Live 12/4 Free Jacksonville, FL Bar at The Engine Room 12/5 Side Talahassee, FL The State Theatre

12/6 Ft. Lauderdale, FL

F RA N C I S CO N A S

F ormed i n 1997 i n S a n Fra n c is c o a s a p o r t a l fo r v ocalist and gu ita ris t J oh n D w y e r, Th e e O h S e e s mixes rough, ex p e r i m e n t a l g a r a g e r o c k t o n e s into an artf o rm b a s e d on a la y e r of c la s s i c p un k rock and just pl a i n a r o u s i n g n o i s e . T h e e O h Sees has washed o u t , r a w d i s t o r t e d g u i t a r l i c k s , and ambient voca l s h r i e k s . D e l a y e d p s y c h e d e l i c vocal harmonies c a n k e e p a n y b a n g i n g h e a d ecsta tic. Thee O h S e e s , f o r m e r l y t h e O C S , O range Co u nty Sou n d , a n d Orin oka Cra s h S ui t e have over 50 und e r g r o u n d r e l e a s e s , f r e e l y a n d independently re c ordin g a s t h e y t ou r, c o n t r a r y to th e no rm i n t h e m u s ic in du s t ry . W i t h i n a week they can r e c o r d a f u l l l e n g t h a l b u m , and write new in n o v a t i v e s o n g s f o r t h e i r n e x t project before ge t t i n g b a c k o n t h e r o a d . T h i s gives them time t o d i g e s t t h e i r n e w m a t e r i a l before bringing i t t o t h e s t u d i o . T h e e O h S e e s have managed t o a v o i d t h e c o n t r o l o f m a j o r

l a b e l s y e t s t i l l s p r e a d t h e i r m u s i c through an e n e r g e t i c , l i v e p l a t f o r m . O t h e r f undamental m e m b e r s i n c l u d e B r i g i d D a w s o n on vocals a n d k e y b o a r d s , P e t e y Da m m i t o n guit ar , Mike S h o un o n d r um s , a n d La r s F i n b e r g , fo under o f t h e S e a t t l e - b a s e d p u n k b a n d , T h e I ntelligence, who also plays drums.

THE CHAW

TMI Hot Picks

(bluesy physch rock) Bottom of the Hill//Wed, Dec 19, 9pm http://www.facebook.com/TheChaw

CHRISETTE MICHELE (r&b soul singer) Mezzanine//Fri, Jan 11, 9pm www.mezzaninesf.com

KRIS ALLEN (singer-songwriter) Cafe Du Nord//Thurs, Feb 14, 7:30pm http://www.cafedunord.com

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With quick ton g u e t w i s t i n g r a p style, intellectu a l h y p e r - l i t e r a t e spoken-word-st y l e l y r i c s , a n d jazz vocals, B u s d r i v e r e m i t s a powerful messa g e l a y e r e d o n t o p of massive bea t s a n d i n t r i c a t e samples. His u n r a t e d , f a s t a n d witty percussive lyrics can trip up the average lis t e n e r a n d d e l i g h t the mind and s o u l , w h e r e K o o l Keith and Dr. O c t a g o n m e e t t h e B52’s. With a s t r o n g i n f l u e n c e from jazz singe r J o n H e n d r i c k s , Busdriver chan n e l s h i s e n e r g y diff erent than a n y ot h e r h ip h op arti st. Re le a s in g t ra c k s as singles to s t a r t h i s c a r e e r , B us driver has ove r 10 a l b u m s and to u rs reg u la rly w it h h it songs “Superha n d s ’ M a n t r a ” a n d “ATM.” He has c o l l a b o r a t e d w i t h Radioinactive a n d D a e d e l u s , B us driver i s sc h e du l e d t o re le a s e a new alb u m ea rly 2 01 3 .

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BUSDRIVER TMI Hot Picks STEPHEN STEINBRINK & FRENCH QUARTER (experimental pop) The Smell//Tues, Jan 29 http://www.thesmell.org

THE ALMIGHTY (rock) The Coach House//Sat, Feb 16, 6pm www.soundclick.com/bands

WATSKY (hip hop) The Glass House//Fri, Dec 7, 7pm http://georgewatsky.com

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THE WHAMMY

TMI Hot Picks

(neo-rockabilly) Doug Fir Lounge//Fri, Feb 22, 8pm http://www.dougfirlounge.com

P I N BAC K (indie) Wonder Ballroom//Thurs, Jan 24, 8pm www.pinback.com

THE DANGEROUS SUMMER (alternative) Backspace Cafe/Tues, Dec 4, 7:30pm http://www.thedangeroussummer.net

L ESS E R K N OW N C H A RACT E R S Lesser

from

revivalist form sticking with analog

Portland bring back that early 60’

patch cable, VU meters and authentic

and 70’s garage rock n roll with

tape, straying away from the ever

fuzzy electric guitar work mimicking

growing digital world of plugins and

a

and

modelers. They have been releasing

plot.

songs as singles throughout 2012 and

Huge sounding drums wrap around

are scheduled to box the entire series

the bands vintage sound with tasty

into a full length LP later in the year.

driving bass lines filling up the mix

In the mean time you can catch one of

like The Trashmen and The Squires.

their high energy live performances

Tight jams, guitar rifts, and distantly

while in the Pacific Northwest.

scene

twisted

Known

Characters

involving Quentin

a

saloon

Tarantino

ghostlike backing vocals hold the canvas for their lyrical stories. Band members HolliePollock, Justin Miller, Ben Bond, Stefin Putnam and Ryan Garaventa base their sound on a true

P O RT L A

D N

D E NV E R The Native American version of Taj Mahal, Cary

The whole album passes through you like a sunny

Morin brings us back to the Robert Johnson era with

day in the mountains. A legend in the making, Cary

stripped down acoustic blues on his latest release, Sing

Morin is a must have for any playlist. You can see

It Louder. With intricate finger picking and soulful

Cary performing solo or with The Pura Fé Trio, The

vocals, Cary has made a name for himself amongst

Cary Morin Duo and The Atoll.

the blues community in the Colorado area.

For

years, Cary has focused on performing and perfecting traditional blues standards cutting his teeth in Great

TMI Hot Picks

Falls, Montana as a Crow tribal member and the son

HOT TUNA ACOUSTIC

of an air force officer. Now with his latest album, Cary captures the truth in America with songs such as “This

(rock) Quiote//Sun Feb 17, 8pm http://www.hottuna.com

Train” and “Rounders.” He also has his versions of

THE BIMARINAL

Steely Dan’s “Black Friday” and Bob Marley’s “War,”

(roots rock) Hi-Dive//Fri, Jan 25, 9pm www.hi-dive.com

with just an acoustic guitar, soft-in-the-pocket drums, an occasional harmonica, and Cary’s powerful voice.

CA RY M O R I N

Blu

ric e m e s /A

ZOMBOY (dubstep) Bluebird Theater//Sat, Dec 29, 9:30pm http://soundcloud.com/zomboy

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TMI Hot Picks

HOT WATER MUSIC

(punk rock) Slowdown//Sat, Feb 2, 7pm http://www.theslowdown.com

B L E S ST H E FA L L (screamo) The Waiting Room//Tues, Dec 11, 7pm www.blessthefallmusic.com

WE ARE VOICES (indie) Barley Street//Fri, Jan 11, 9pm http://www.wearevoices.com

T WO D RAG C LU B Guitar rock, honest lyrics, and a full moon silhouette best describe the sound of Two Drag Club. This Omaha-based band has created a new version of pop rock, combining rich harmonies, crunchy fat guitar swells, classic synthesizer, choppy rock lyrics, a strong 80s influence and a hint of power rock, like the 90s alternative rock band, Filter. Most of their songs contain loud, in-your-face drums, all over the neck bass skills, sharp rhythm syncopation, and a repetitive instrumental line similar to The Cure and The Cars. Their first album called Latest Complication is named after its title track and is a solid play from start to finish including great songs like “Choices and No Reason to Worry.”

Front man and vocalist Bob Boyce and band members Clint Thomas, Will

Po

Oxford, Chad Beisheim and Michael

p

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Gagliani regularly perform in the

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Midwest and their full length album can be purchased online.

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P I LG R I M Pilgrim is a traditional American rock band from Tulsa, OK, and is focused around the works of singer songwriter, Beau Roberson. With strong influences from John Prine, Bob Dylan and Jeff Tweedy, Pilgrim has takes additional influences of the Stillwater and Red Dirt styles, common to the area, and strays away from traditional country, holding their place in the jam band rock arena like The Allman Brothers and Wide Spread Panic. Beau’s raspy rock vocals and storyline lyrics are joined by Cody Clinton on electric guitar, Chris Kyle on

TMI Hot Picks TODD CLOUSER’S A LOVE ELECTRIC (rock) The Colony//Fri, Feb 22 http://www.toddclouser.com

T Y L E R G R EG O RY (bluegrass) Mercury Lounge//Fri, Jan 18, 8pm www.mercuryloungd918.com

MATT STELL & THE CRASHERS (country) Cain’s//Sat, Dec 1, 7pm http://www.mattstell.com

keyboards, Eric Arndt on bass guitar, and Patrick Ryan on drums. On stage, the group is known to open up to each other and feed off each other’s vibes, rocking the night away with long vamps and organized jam sessions and mixing in their version of “Corpus Christi Bay” by Texas songwriter Robert Earl Keen. Their new self titled live album is available online, and Roberson is also featured, along with other acts like Dead Sea Choir, Paul Benjaman, the Stone Trio, Vandevander, Gogo Plumbay and the Panda Resistance on a new compilation compact disc called The New Tulsa Sound.

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Originally from the tiny town of Riesel, TX,

Dallas-based

songwriter,

Greg

Schroeder brings a deep baritone voice, meaningful

lyrics,

and

well

crafted

and powerful narratives to the stage.

As a brilliant storyteller with a strong religious background, Schroeder presents a traditional Americana rock style with added country flair, ranging from Mark

G R EG S C H R O E D E R

Knopfler to Jimmy Dale Gilmore. Armed with an acoustic guitar, Schroeder’s tracks are accented with laid back drum and bass lines, electric piano, lap steel, and other subtle keys. Schroeder released his first solo record Songs for a Bluebird in 2008, recorded at Austin’s Cedar Creek Studio with Hayes Carll’s band members Scott Davis and Cody Foote.

In 2011 Greg released his second solo album the selftitled Schroeder recorded in Dallas, which has been well received at all of his shows. Touring from Alabama to California, Greg Schroeder is the epitome of the American songwriter, pouring his heart out openly for the world to see.

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TMI Hot Picks

SWEAR AND SHAKE

an

a/ A

(indie folk) Grandad Theater//Thurs, Feb 7, 8pm http://www.grandatheater.com

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WE THE SEA LIONS

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(ambient) Lola’s Saloon//Sat, Jan 12, 9pm www.lolasfortworth.com

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(garage rock revival) Dada//Sat, Jan 26, 8pm http://ty-segall.com

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R BTS W I N Robots Win or RBTS Win, as they prefer to be called, is an extra-strength dose of Moog and funk fusion, soaked in industrial rock and roll.

Reminiscent of early Moby and Nine Inch Nails, RBTS Win breaks the boundaries of today’s musical classification, with their experimental odd sampling, synth-heavy sound, and edgy metal guitar work. Core members Brian Worsham and Javier Bolea, while both on a different music path, met six years ago in Asheville, NC and decided to compromise their existing individual sounds and open themselves up to creating something far above the norm

AS H EV I L

of today’s everyday rock song.

Worsham and Bolea, along with guitarist Jim DeBardi, have released nine albums, all of which are free to download online. RBTS Win began their journey seeking exposure over the mighty dollar with the help of a community of supporters consisting of graphic artists, photographers and mixing and mastering engineers.

This mentality, along with the many facets of the internet, has added to their popularity amongst the Southeast region and the rest of the planet. Their new release, The Dark Ones is their first for-sale album, and is available online.

LE

TMI Hot Picks STEEP CANYON RANGER (bluegrass) The Orange Peel//Fri, Jan 11, 8pm http://www.theorangepeel.com

DA R R E N N I C H O L S O N BA N D (bluegrass) The Altamont Theater//Fri, Dec 21, 8pm www.myaltamaont.com

TIFT MERRITT (singer/songwriter) The Grey Eagle//Thurs, Feb 21 http://thegreyeagle.com

Campus FM

Mozart

&

DUBSTEP

Normally,

these two terms are not mentioned together, Mozart and Dubstep. Why not add a heavy bass drop to a piano composition from the Classical Era? Well, according to YouTube, any sound can be “dubstep-ed”; no guarantee of a quality final product.

But the title is not a reference to a remixed “Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor” with a bass line and a seemingly disoriented drum beat. However, this is a take on the idea of implementing electronic music into the Mozart Effect. In short, classical music supposedly helps to stimulate one’s brain while completing certain tasks, such as studying or taking a test. In context of college students, is it possible to effectively study while listening to “dubstep,” “grime,” or any other genre of electronic musical origin?

The term “Mozart Effect” was first coined by Dr. Alfred A. Tomatis, who used Mozart's music as the listening stimulus in his work attempting to cure a variety of disorders. The approach has been popularized in a book by Don Campbell, and is based on Tomatis’s experiment, published in Nature Magazine/Journal. The study done by Rauscher, Shaw, and Ky suggested that listening to Mozart temporarily boosted scores on one portion of the IQ test. As a result, the Governor of Georgia (at the time), Zell Miller, proposed a budget to provide every child born in Georgia with a CD of classical music. With the conjunction of a praise article in the New York Times and the support of a state governor, the Mozart Effect became highly popular in mid to late 90s.

Both a basic and popular understanding of the idea goes: A set of research results indicate that listening to Mozart's music may induce a short-term improvement on the performance of certain kinds of mental tasks.

This is known as "spatial-temporal reasoning" (an example is studying). Commonly spread is the phrase, "listening to Mozart makes you smarter." Author Don Campbell even put forth the idea that playing Mozart in the vicinity of an unborn child would increase the child’s mental development. However, publicly, Rauscher et. al. only illustrated an increase in "spatial intelligence.” The results were publicly interpreted as an increase in general IQ. This misconception, and the fact that the music used in the study were Mozart compositions, had an obvious appeal to those who already valued this music. In this case, could the Mozart Effect apply to other genres such as Hip-Hop or Electronic music?

In today’s younger generation, electronic music has taken flight to the top of music charts. On college campuses, entire parties have been dedicated to dubstep and house music. If the original Mozart Effect concept was pushed and popularized by previously established Mozart fans, then could the Mozart Effect be on the minds of those who naturally drift toward electronic music?

Dubstep is a genre of electronic dance music that originated in South London, England. The music website Allmusic has described its overall sound as "tightly coiled productions with overwhelming bass

lines and reverberant drum patterns, clipped samples, and occasional vocals." The earliest dubstep releases date back to 1998 and were darker, more experimental, instrumental dub remixes of 2-step garage tracks attempting to incorporate the funky elements of breakbeat, or the dark elements of drum and bass into 2-step, which featured as B-sides of single releases.

Ben Herdon, writer for RockandIce.com (an online magazine about outdoor climbing), explained the use of electronic music as both a mind and body stimulant while climbing. “It turns out, however, the most important factor in figuring out if music is beneficial for your dome is not tempo or how many cellists are in the orchestra, but the song's order—or at times, lack of. Dynamic songs with changes in repetition, contrasting rhythms, and swings in mood and pitch are what simultaneously stimulate the brain's halves, maximizing ‘learning and retention of information,’ according to research compiled by musicist Laurence O'Donnell III.” But some people still believe that Mozart’s music is calming and this is the reason that it currently takes precedence for the Mozart Effect. In his study "Music and the Mind,” Dr. Michael Ballam states, "the human mind shuts down after three or four repetitions of a rhythm, or a melody, or a harmonic progression." Researchers continued to state that no two people experience a song in the same way; finding the right neuron-stimulating music is key. Figure out what works for you.

A few big names in electronic music today include Flux Pavilion, Bassnectar, and Skrillex. Search their names on YouTube; many songs and videos could be the stimulant you need to study. No one knows for sure if electronic music will help you get an ‘A’ on your next exam or research paper, but one thing is for sure: music is universal and it helps people focus. A word of advice?

Skrillex

Bassnectar

Flux Pavilion

Whether the Mozart Effect is fact or not, find the muse that helps you concentrate and retain information. Whether it be Mozart, Skrillex, or simply chewing gum, being able to focus is the secret to achieving an ‘A’. Good luck.

The Dallas S discover learn play DLP is an online, sequential, and comprehensive music learning program for students of all ages who want to Discover, Learn, and Play Music.

School of Music, Inc. The Kore Course and Jazz Course are each available for 35+ instruments.

Theory and Resources are available for FREE - JOIN NOW!

Anathema’s music resonates within their devout fan base as a beacon for hope within the struggle of life. Listening to their ninth studio release Weather Systems I can see why they would feel that way. Simply put, the music is beautiful and life-affirming.

Guitarist and songwriter Daniel Cavanagh shares his inspiration behind the songs.

Do you have a favorite track off the new album and why?

Is there any sort of process you abide by when writing a song?

“Untouchable Part Two” I think it’s the most sentimental and beautiful.

Anything can happen. I hope that the process keeps changing because change is good and there isn’t a rule that I abide by except good melody, that’s a rule.

Is there an isolated theme behind Weather Systems?

Not really, it’s always about the emotions and the feelings. You could call it Emotional Systems. That would be just as relevant. And you could also say that now we’ve just opened up the spectrum to more ecstatic emotions, more optimistic, beautiful, peaceful and grateful human emotions, in addition to the doubt and the fear that also has always been in Anathema songs.

Do politics or world events ever influence the songwriting?

No, we’re not really influenced by the outside world. Anathema is really about the inner world; the greater world.

Besides music, has anything helped shape the direction of the band?

I am a bit of a philosopher, I suppose.

Anathema’s lyrics seem to have taken a more positive and spiritual direction in recent years. What do you attribute this change to?

Spiritual is just a word and sometimes you get tired of words because they always fall short of the reality of anything you’re talking about, particularly when you’re talking about spiritual things. What I’m doing with music is trying to put into form something that is outside of “normal” forms and structures like words. Doing that we’re trying to put something else across; something at the heart of life, something essentially beautiful and affirming. It can’t really be put into words. But some can flow from that inner peace and that space. I try to get those words across.

The change really comes from an artistic and personal shift in me in the year 2005 while I was already writing more positive stuff, but around then I had a moment of clarity and beauty in my life. Things started to shift and change. I discovered the music of bands like Sigur Ros and started to write more in that regard.

Were there any memorable production moments during the making of Weather Systems?

Putting the speech on the song “Internal Landscapes.”

Putting that in the recording and getting permission from Joe himself to use the speech. Listening to the vocal was great. After we did that song, I recorded a poetry album for Joe.

One thing is clear: An essential attribute of any great artist is change and personal growth. Anathema’s all about it.

Learning to conform to the inevitable changes of our life’s currents may be as essential as being what we already are, lest we forget “we’re here because we’re here.”

H AT

S N E

DAN DEACON

CO RY C H I S E L

Modern day aggregate of the Psychedelic Furs and early 80’s U2, Feather Trade has taken on a nostalgic sound of a rebellious, post punk revival.

Blasting out rich guitar tones and subtle synth accents smeared with murky meaningful vocals and heavy rock drums, Feather Trade is a chorus of mechanical vibrations all stirred up into an aural soup, with intense screams and dreamy lulls. The act was founded in 2007 in Athens, GA based on the inventiveness of vocalist and guitarist, Chisolm Thompson. Thompson, along with bassist Natalie Gazaway and drummer,John Swint, strive for perfection of their sound and the way they present it both on the live and

(americana) Melting Point//Tues, Jan 8 www.meltingpointathens.com

EMANCIPATOR FT. ILYA GOLDBERG (electronica) Georgia Theatre//Thurs, Feb 7, 11pm http://geatorgiatheatre.com

studio platform. Thompson’s lyrics are robust, lamentable and lurid, while they still draw you in to want more so you can relate to his conflict.

Feather Trade currently has their self titled EP available online, featuring the powerful track, “Panther Panther” or you can find them live throughout the Southeast.

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(electronic) 40 Watt//Tues, Dec 11, 8pm http://www.40watt.com

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In 2010 singer songwriter Kevin Rowe and his wife, Abby, sold all of their belongings, packed their bags and left Bath City, England to move to Atlanta so Kevin could

A T AT L A N

expand his career as a musician.

After showing moderate success in the UK, Kevin came in search of the American Dream and has gone above and beyond in just a short time. Kevin can best be described as the British version of Bryan Adams, with a raspy John

Mayer

voice

and

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small

town, Tom Petty-honest lyrics.

Sponsored by Nord, he is an incredible pianist and soulful performer with a knack for writing catchy pop lyrics. His first full length album, 10am, debuted in 2011 and immediately caught the attention of several labels, though Kevin is still waiting for the right fit. He just released two new singles, “Everything I Was Made For” and “Welcome to America” with a third tracks scheduled to release before the end of 2012.

TMI Hot Picks BENJAMIN FRANCIS LEFTWICH (indie) Vinyl//Wed, Dec 19, 7pm http://www.centerstage-atlanta.com/ shows/vinyl

TEA LEAF GREEN (rock) Terminal West//Fri, Jan 18, 10pm www.terminalwestatl.com

THE JOMPSON BROTHERS (rock) Smith’s//Sat, Feb 9, 8pm http://smithsoldebar.com

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RYA N M O N T B L E AU BA N D Ryan Montbleau Band is a five, sometimes six piece act based out of the Boston area, and has been on the road steadily since 2003, averaging 200+ shows a year. This persistence has helped form their sound and build their catalog to what it is today the old fashion way, by experimenting with their songs on stage before executing them onto tape. Based on the writings and soulful voice of Montbleau, band members James Cohen, Jason Cohen, Matt Giannaros, Laurence Scudder and Yahuba Torres expand the stories into a convivial experience for the music listener. As a result, their tracks take the form of funk, reggae, country ballads, and even R&B. Their latest release For Higher, featuring the single “Yeah Man,” was recorded in New Orleans with the help of Ben Ellman, saxophonist for Galactic, which contests to the band’s focus on slow brewed success. With a total of eight albums under their belts, The Ryan Montbleau Band is exponentially growing, inspiring the crowds they encounter on their journey.

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TMI Hot Picks THE GET BACKS

ON

(soul) Johnny D’s//Fri, Jan 4, 10pm http://www.johnnyds.com

B R OW N B I R D (folk) Club Paradise//Fri, Dec 28/8pm www.thedise.com

WILD BELLE (indie) Passim//Fri, Feb 15, 8pm http://passim.org

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T H E TA R L ATA N S

TMI Hot Picks ELM BOLT (crooner rock) The Royal America//Sun, Dec 16, 9pm http://theroyalamerican.com

STO P L I G H T O B S E RVAT I O N S (alternative rock) Music Farm//Sat, Jan 12, 8pm www.musicfarm.com

RYAN BONNER (americana) Home Team BBQ West Ashely//Sat, Jan 12, 8pm http://hometeambbq.com

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A tarlatan is a specialized rag used to clean off a wood print or in this case, a colorful, yet raw and dirty Americana rock act from Charleston, SC. Based on the writings of guitarists and vocalists, Taylor McCleskey and Ryan Williams, The Tarlatans are an ingenious approach to staying along the fine line of catchy pop rock, but still leaving room for the beauty of human imperfection and the celebration of life and its highs and lows. McCleskey and Williams are brilliant poets who harmonize beautifully

together and are truthful with every lyric, unafraid of admitting their faults and hardships.

They possess an old country feel- especially visible in their ballads- but are transformed into their own sound adding elements of bluegrass and folk rock with the help of other band members, Eric Mixon and Blake Shorter.

Their new self-titled album featuring the track, “Isabel,� available on iTunes and Amazon, is a top to bottom breath of fresh air amongst the polluted world of music.

D.C

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TMI Hot Picks JESSIE WARE (electronic r&b) 9:30//Tue, Jan 15, 7pm http://www.930.com

ELIKEH (afro pop) Bohemian Caverns//Thurs, Dec 6, 8pm www.bohemiancaverns.com

THE PIETASTERS (ska) Black Cat//Fri, Feb 1 http://blackcatdc.com

F un k M n k y z fr o m Wa s h i n g t o n , DC t a k e s the hip-ho p v o c a l o u t c r y o f t h e R a g e A g a i n s t t h e M a c hine model a n d m o r p h s i t i n t o i t s o w n e n t i t y b y a d d i n g a 311 style b a s s a n d S l a y e r -e s q ue l i c k s m i x e d w i t h inno vat iv e g u i t a r e f f e c t s c o m p a r a b l e t o t h a t o f T h e E d g e (U2). They a m a l g a m a t e t h e b e s t o f a l l w o r l d s o f m u s i c f r om metal to r a p t o s l a p f u n k y b a s s l i n e s , y e t s t a y t r u e t o t heir identity o f s o m e t h i n g o ut o f t h e o r d i n a r y , w i t h t h e co r e o f t he s o un d c o m i n g fr o m E r i k “ E r o k ” Do l i n g e r o n bas s , S t even “ D a n g e r ” S m i t h o n d r u m s , a n d “ S u p e r ” M a r io Alves on e l e c t r i c g u i t a r . Ly r i c a l l y , vo c a l i s t s Jo h n “ Q u e st” Dew and Va n “ Vi c e 1 7 ” P e t t y e x ud e t h e i r a n g s t o ve r s o cial dis o r der a n d t h e b a t t l e o ve r h u m a n r i g h t s , w h i l e s t i l l promoting c i v i l h a r m o n y a m i d s t t h e t h r e a t o f c h a o s . T h e ir live shows a r e l o ud a n d r a uc o us a n d t h e i r s o un d i s b e s t des cr ibed as a p e a c e ful r a m p a g e , b l a s t i n g o ut a n g r y m e t a l guit ar o n t o p o f a p l a t e o f a p p e t i z i n g fun k r o c k . T h e i r s eco nd fulll e n g t h a l b um , W hi c h W a y i s Down , w a s r e l e a s ed in lat e 2 0 1 1 a n d t h e y h a ve s p e n t m o s t o f t h i s y e a r t o ur ing t he states to promote it.

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VI LLE H S

TMI Hot Picks JED ZIMMERMAN (americana) The Bluebird Cafe//Thurs, Dec 20, 8pm http://www.madjackrecords.com

S H OV E L S & R O P E (honky tonk) Mercy Lounge//Thurs, Feb 7, 8pm www.shovelsandrope.com

JON SPENCER BLUES EXPLOSION (blues) Exit/In//Fri, Jan 26, 8pm http://www.thejonspencerbluesexplosion.com

Guitar shredder, vocalist, and lyricist Keith Moody moved from Montgomery, AL to Nashville in 2006, bringing with him a unique stance on rock, blues and country. His guitar playing strength separates him from the average Nashville country artist along with his soulful lyrics and music arranging ability. Widely influenced by Ray Charles, Jimi Hendrix and the Boss, Bruce Springsteen, Moody’s passion for music and self determination has elevated his stage performance and studio recordings to a new level. His latest single, “One Big Ending,” from the album Dreaming Out Loud is being well received in the country and pop markets, with the help of producer, Jason Elgin (Collective Soul, Terrible Things). Moody’s expanse compounded with his abundance of boundary free personal influences is an effective combination apparent throughout his work. His maturity and intensity go against his young age, and will continue to permeate into every note of his music. Moody’s music can be found online or while he is on tour in the central US.

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TMI Hot Picks JOHN FORTE & FIREHORSE (hip hop) City Winery//Sun, Jan 6, 8pm http://www.citywinery.com

S O U L R E B E L S B R AS S BA N D (jazz, funk) Brooklyn Bowl//Thurs, Feb 14, 8pm www.thesoulrebels.com

MARION LOGUIDICE (pop) Joe’s Pub//Sat, Jan 26, 7pm http://www.joespub.com

The New York party scene has a new addition to its glamour and uniqueness. Mad Juana commemorates the meaning behind the statue of liberty, symbolizing America as a melting pot of cultures that work and prosper together. Founded by guitarist Sami Yaffa of the NY Dolls and vocalist Karmen Guy while in Spain over eight years ago, Mad Juana is a conglomerate of mariachi horns, Spanish guitar, dance hall reggae, European street performers, punk rock and Broadway theatrics. Piously sprung from the book, Babel by author Patti Smith, they weld their contrasting musical backgrounds together to form an explosive celebration captured on disc and on the stage. Guy’s vocals are sensual and mystically appealing, accompanied with a strong flamenco guitar, gypsy accordion, party horns, and a rhythm that shakes the earth across the globe.

Adding to the mix is George De Voe on bass, Danny Ray on tenor sax, Marni Rice on accordion, Indofunk Satish on trumpet, and Mal Stein on drums. Mad Juana’s live shows are memorable and their new album, Kumpania is a moving, crazily fun, must-have for any carousal.

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A M E R I CA N AQ UA R I U M Formed in 2006 in Raleigh, NC, American Aquarium brings back that middle 70’s Kenny Rogers with a sharper tongue and a pensive textural ambiance. They’ve taken the foundation of the classic country song and dynamically elongated the accompaniment to give it a heavier rock feel, using fierce Hammond chords and borderline Robert Randolf distorted slide guitar tones. Lyricist and vocalist, BJ Barham, with his rich baritone voice and country boy twang, follows the traditional scope of storytelling to describe the bands journey of life, love, and bar debauchery on the road. Six albums and numerous tours across the states and in Europe have kept them far from home but add to the seasoned,

RA

working man character they possess on and off stage. They are proof that the classic American hardworking touring band still exists, so much that their latest album, Burn.Flicker.Die, attests to their experiences and road fatigue, and chronicles the fast life and the blur it can become. In spite of their mockery of life on the road, Barham, along with other band members, Ryan Johnson, Whit Wright, Bill Corbin, and Kevin McClain, will continue to embrace the road and play music from their hearts.

H G I E L

TMI Hot Picks ACOUSTIC GROUNDS (folk) PourHouse//Tues, Dec 11, 8pm http://www.thepourhousemusichall.com

CARBON LEAF (rock) Cat’s Cradle//Sat, Jan 19, 8pm www.catscradle.com

MIPSO TRIO (americana) King’s//Fri, Jan 11, 9pm http://www.kingsbaracade.com

A-Side/B-Side

The Revivalists

Paul Westerberg “My Road Now”

“Catching Fireflies”

Nick Waterhouse “Some Place”

Little Man

The Lemonheads

“Tarots And Arrows”

“If I Could Talk I’d Tell You”

The Amazing “Flashlight”

First Aid Kit “EmmyLou

Hospitality “Liberal Arts”

Benjamin Gibbard

“Bigger Than Love”

The Hold Steady “First Night”

Johnny Marr

The A-Side

Becca’s Mix

A Year To Remember

“The Messenger”

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds “There She Goes, My Beautiful World”

Mayer Hawthorne “The Walk”

Awe-Inspiring Instrumentals

The B-Side

Zach’s Mix

Gordian Knot “Muttersprache”

Shakti

“Face to Face”

Jean-Luc Ponty “Nostalgic Lady”

King Crimson “The Sheltering Sky”

Camel

Dead Can Dance

“Rhayder Goes to Town”

“Ascension”

Pat Metheny

“To the End of the World”

Manorexia

“A Plastic Island in the Pacific”

Univers Zero

Isis

“Dense”

“Altered Course”

Miles Davis “Pharaoh's Dance”

Pelican

“Last Day of Winter”

Birds and Buildings “Birds Flying Into Buildings”

BalconyTV The world of BalconyTV is as vast as the world itself as the number of cities across the globe continues to expand at a remarkable rate. The latest city I’ve had the pleasure of checking out is the city of Kaunas in Lithuania. But for a more in depth look into this amazing city I lend my ear to Sunny Aggarval, the producer of

BalconyTV Kaunas.

y n n u s L A V R A G AG

Who are the biggest up-and-coming musicians in Kaunas to look out for?

There are many and each presents something special and fresh. To my mind, Candee Train, ReednoBrass, and Evgenya Redko all have something very special.

What style of music do you feel embodies the local scene most? Are there any genres that are more prominent than others?

Liberty Avenue photo by: August BigHead

In Lithuania there is not really a particular scene of music, each band has its own style and that’s what I love about it. Lithuania is a young country with a great history of music. Pop music had a big role in its history. The local music is folk music which is just used for traditions and only heard at festivals. In the revolution of music, tastes changed. Each different style is embraced pretty openly.

What are the best venues for live

What sets BTV apart from other live

music in Kaunas?

music shows?

The best places are on Liberty Avenue. This is

People love to watch this show because they really

Europe’s longest street and has lots of open cafes

get the diversity of different locations, views from

and bars. In the summer, every evening in the city

around the world and a very different sense of

there’s different events at different places,

music, culturally.

particularly Rysiu Kiemelis, Fluxus Ministerija, Gargaras, and Combo.

What has been your memorable BTV moment?

most

Having worked in the music business, what advice do you have for struggling musicians?

My advice is you’re going to have to struggle a

For me each moment is memorable because I

little bit, but it should also be fun for you because

love living in the world of BTV. I’m thoroughly

it should be music that comes from the heart.

enjoying each moment I have with this project.

You’ll never give up because you have the power

When I got it started it was just unbelievable; it

of music which is a blessing from God to make

was my dream come true. But one of the greatest

others happy. So if not today, your dreams will

moments was when we organized the BTV

come true some day. Come see us at BalconyTV

concert in the city at Fluxus Ministerija.

Kaunas. We always welcome talented musicians and support them by showing their talent to the rest of the world.

MUSIC WITH A VIEW www.balconytv.com/kaunas

Loving your job may not be easy for the majority of the working world but “that’s life,” as your parents would say. For those who do love their jobs like Joseph Kelly of

BalconyTV Brooklyn

, who spends his work days getting to know talented, local musicians, I salute you and allow Mr. Kelly to indulge me in what he knows.

j os e p h KELLY

Are there any styles of music especially indigenous to Brooklyn?

Brooklyn has always been a major birthplace of music from all genres. What I see a lot of nowadays is the electronic/indie rock scene.

Synth is everywhere and I love it. We had a really awesome band on called Tiny Victories a while back. Those guys are killing it. I am a big fan of music that is meaningful but I can also dance to it. Not just beats on beats.

What do you feel sets Brooklyn apart from other cities musically?

an EP that will blow your mind, get you

Brooklyn and NYC as a whole have always been a

same time. Another group that I love is The

mecca for music and the arts in general. The recent

Ugly Club. BTV Brooklyn actually launched

rise of Brooklyn’s popularity among young adults

with their performance of “Under the Great

has helped grow the scene into what it is today.

Wave,” which to this day I still listen to daily.

There is no shortage of bands and musicians around

Another band I love is Basement Batman.

these parts but what I feel sets them apart from

These guys have so much swag it hurts

other cities is the extent to which people will go to

sometimes. Their shows are so much fun and

live here. New York is the greatest city in the world

their album is simply awesome.

dancing and strike some emotion all at the

and being in the local music community truly makes one feel a part of something. Plus there is only one BTV Brooklyn view.

What makes BTV different from other music shows and why do you feel people should watch it?

Who are some of your favorite local musicians and why? Who do you feel needs to be heard?

People should watch BTV mostly because it’s

I could create a list of local music I love but you

very limited ways to find new underground

wouldn’t have any more room in the magazine. I

music. You will never hear some of the bands

am absolutely stoked for this amazing band out of

on BTV on major radio stations. Those are

Brooklyn called Stone Cold Fox. These guys have

flooding with pop acts who have the money to

cool but also to find some new music. With the way the music industry is nowadays there are

pay for play. MTV is well. . . not MTV anymore so the only real way to find up-and-coming

MUSIC WITH A VIEW www.balconytv.com/brooklyn

acts is through site’s like BTV.

Panama

An international travel series featuring The Music Initiative’s Editor-In-Chief and 2012 Emerging Artist T. Champagne journeyed to Panama to experience three vastly differing regions of the country in 10 days. The purpose of this experimental trip?

To see, interview and experience how music and the arts, nature, food & spirits, architecture, and the human spirit transcends borders.

One more day in Panama City (time for a bit of history) Wednesday 7am After waking a bit groggy from our wine-hazed romantic evening, we slowly treaded down the winding staircase to our breakfast nook at The Canal House. Delighted by a first class private breakfast of fresh fruit, granola and huevos de jambon, we had the healthy jump start needed to kick us into gear for our much anticipated day of historical sightseeing and interviewing.

Before we left The Canal House, we chatted with the manager Olga a bit about its history. The house apparently had been built in the late 1890s by one of Panama’s founding fathers. Through the years, like most of the buildings in the historical Casco region, it became a bit weathered and neglected. But when the gentrification of this historical district began, the house rallied, basking in its former glory and re-opened as the first high-end, Green Globe certified, boutique hotel in Central America.

As the conversation progressed to lighter topics of fun and travel, Olga shared adventure stories and suggested places for us to truly unwind (Bocas del Toro). From the corner of the room, we saw a hand briefly flutter in the air as our sweet breakfast server waved goodbye.

We complimented Olga on the courtesy and service-oriented nature of her staff, and how impressed we were by their efforts to speak our language. Olga beamed with pride and she explained The Canal House’s unique hiring policy. Seeped in stewardship and love for its community, The Canal House employs its staff from within the neighborhood, and more importantly each was trained by the

The Canal House

non-profit organization, Fundacion Calicanto.

This foundation helps residents break the physical and emotional cycle of poverty by offering them practical job skills, as well as self-esteem training. After the training, the foundation works toward placing each person in a job within the neighborhood to keep it from losing its significant cultural heritage, due to lower income residents being pushed out by developers and foreigners. We were so inspired by this story and the struggles, and Olga assured us that the people of the neighborhood are filled with pride and hope for a brighter future.

Wednesday 11am Armed with our shades, we took to the streets and wandered aimlessly through the city, as we had a few hours to kill until our tour guide meet up with our afternoon tour guide. We checked out Iglesia San Jose (the famous golden altar), strolled through the the Plaza Herrera to view the statue of Panamanian independence crusader Tomas Herrera, and marveled at Los Bovedas Monument (the Spanish torture dungeons). Eventually, we stopped in at the Havana Club for a drink and a bite.

We decided to rely on the special board and ordered the Ropa Vieja, a shredded brisket in a tomato sauce base, and a Cuban sandwich, coupled with the National Beer of Panama, appropriately named Panama.

As we enjoyed our meal listening to rumba, mambo and bolero, the bright sun pierced through the open air restaurant, illuminating the local artwork and giant wooden chandeliers.

Havana Club

Replenished, we went in search of our next evening respite. Like most of the boutique hotels in Casco Viejo, Casa Sucre was hidden. After finding an address and a bell, we glanced at each each other and silently wondered what this door would uncover. A loud buzz announced our arrival, we entered and climbed a wide staircase looking forward. As we approached the top, a glorious creature with the kindest voice welcomed us with a hug and a smile. Alyce Sherman, jazz vocalist and arts enthusiast extrodinaire, ushered us into her home. (Not going to lie, but I am pretty sure this may be my Panamanian soulmate.) Adorned with beautiful local art, Casa Sucre is a haven for international artists and musicians. As we began to feel the textures of the textiles on the wall, and admire the delicate stitchings of the Kuna (indigenous people) Molas, Alyce instructs us to drop our bags.

As if a scene from a movie, like clockwork, a door opens and our own personal ambassador of Panamanian tourism, Jonathan, enters.

A quick hello and out the door again.

Our hostess had planned an afternoon of sightseeing and a special meet-n-greet with one of Panama’s premiere authors and art curators, Carlos Weil. Born in Brazil, and raised in Switzerland, this lawyer/ banker/ former Christie’s art auctioneer settled in Panama in 1987 and never looked back.

Carlos Weil

Wednesday 3pm We quickly discovered this revered member of the international art community owns an upscale gallery, as well as Panama’s only art auction house. Upon entry of the gallery, we were overwhelmed with the sheer enormity of stock; everything from models to manuscripts, from jewelry to hats, and everything in between. Stacks of paintings and an army of sculptures engulfed his gallery. Eclectic can not even begin to describe the treasures here. From our perspective, it resembled an art collector’s fantasy playground.

Suddenly, the man, known by his friends as “Uncle Carlos” glides toward us, his thick accent fills the space and welcomes start flowing like wine, and in a moment we find ourselves in yet another sincere embrace. Uncle Carlos escorts us around the gallery and explains that while living in France, he worked as an artist, as well as an art collector. For an hour, we dug through each corner, every nook and cranny, as he in elaborate detail deconstructed the processes of making

art and verbally sketched portaits of the personalities behind their creators. When asked which piece he loved the most, he blushed, and like most good parents, said each was special in its own way. However, he did relay two things he had great passion for: artwork revolving around the Panama Canal, and Panamanian musical scores.

Carlos Weil’s most well known gift to the country of Panama consists of a series of original French Canal Bonds that he commissioned artists to paint . The painting on the bonds were intended to reflect the history of the canal and the world around us through the eyes of the world of art. To date, he has commissioned over 2000 bonds for artists to paint. To see them in person was baffling; the detail of the painting on the bond was beautiful. And not only were the bonds themselves a work of art in terms of penmanship and paper quality, but also a piece of history, a literal bill of sale, to a place where international travel and commerce was made possible. (For more information on this, you may find his book, The Canal of Many Colors, a fun and informative read).

Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, he pulls out a collection of original musical scores, all from the era of the Panama Canal’s construction. Ok, so now our inner music geek rears its nerdy head, we sit and thumb through these for about an hour. Giggling, I am fascinated by the phrasing while Thomas is in awe of the arrangements, and Weil just wants to know if it will sound like good music. He clarifies that none of these, to his knowledge, have been recorded, or at least not yet. Hmmmm, if you know anything about us, we are always looking for a fun opportunity and this screams PROJECT! (Keep up with the series to find out what happens with these).

Panama Canal

the oversized shipping vessels through the channel. In the background, the final stage of construction to widen the canal to three lanes was cranking into high gear as well. The diversity of structures within the city and the outlying jungle was astounding. We were both so glad to have someone who had watched the city grow over the course of 30 years to be able to interpret it for us. **Quick plug, book Jonathan for a tour. This native Panamanian had plenty of his own adventures traveling and studying abroad before he came home to his homeland. What better thing for him to do than open his own tour guide service, Truly Panama. And when I tell you he gets it, he gets IT. The love for his country, its history, and his wealth of knowledge shines through in each detail.

Wednesday 7pm

After an extended “Uncle Carlos style” au revoir, Jonathan whisked us out, taking the wheel’s helm, narrating tales of historical, cultural and natural significance as we weave through the old city, passing the towering skyscrapers, and finally descending into the lush rainforest that the US military had occupied for so many decades. Suddenly, our first view of the Panama Canal loomed ahead and we saw the last lock before the Pacific Ocean. One always hears stories of the Panama Canal, but until you are close, the magnitude of the structure, as well as the fact that it is an engineering feat, can’t possibly settle in. In the foreground,train cars and tugboats navigated

Arriving back at Casa Sucre, we realized we have birthday dinner reservations in one hour, as well as our first music gig bringing the reggae/ funk/ pop sounds of T. Champagne to Casco Viejo. As we alternated between getting dressed and enjoying cocktail hour, we made a new friend in co-founder and Grammy Award-winning audio engineer Rob Griffin (2003 Best Instrumental Jazz Recording with Herbie Hancock, Michael Brecker and Roy Hargrove). Rob conveyed he is in town working on a new album, as well as visiting and making plans with the Mamoni Valley Preserve to help with the creation of Junglewood, a center for ecological and cultural renewal.

This project blew our minds. Deep within the rainforest where the indigenous Kuna live “at the narrowest point in the Western Hemisphere, where a mere 35 miles separates the Pacific and the Atlantic,” a biodiversity project, unlike anything we had ever heard, grows. Earth Train, BioMuseo, Grammy Award-winning jazz musician Danilo

Perez, the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, and Dr. Jane Goodall are collaborating to create a community, complete with an amphitheater and recording studios, where the indigenous Kuna, scientists, ecologists, musicians, and a variety of people can go to celebrate and use the rhythms, sounds and structures of nature for creation, preservation and sustainability. Our minds were numb with the possibility that such a perfect project fusing stewardship, science and the arts was working so beautifully.

With a guitar in hand and food on the brain, we ran through the streets hoping to keep our much coveted dinner reservation at Manolo Caracol. Always packed, you must make a reservation well in advance (you will be turned away at the door). Once inside, we hear the open kitchen warming up with sounds like instruments tuning before a symphony.

Its chefs are working the metal skillets, wooden spatulas, and steam pots. No time to waste, we are seated. Don’t even think to ask for a menu; you won’t get one. Recognized for the best small plates in Casco, Manolo Caracol also prides itself on a knowledgeable, superb and amenable waitstaff.

They take their time and expect you to do the same. You will not be leaving any time soon–think 2 hours minimum. The plates may be small, but this 12-course meal was meant to be savored. Favorite dishes of the night…Andalusian gazpacho with a cucumber sorbet, and the squash pumpkin soup. And savor we did…until we realized, we had 15 minutes to run through the streets AGAIN to make our gig at Mojitos. (Notice a theme on this trip…RUNNING!)

Emerging artist T. Champagne

Wednesday 10pm One minute before showtime, we hit the stage, damp from the humidity of the balmy climate.

Mojitos is an open air bar, set in the midst of an old stone building. The stage occupies a corner with a wall spanning some 50 feet high. Thomas takes the stage to a welcoming crowd of 20, 30 and 40 somethings from across the globe. The mood: friendly, the libations: plentiful, and the atmosphere: epic. Something about sitting admidst stone and centuries of history while listening to music just sent shivers down our spines and seemed to accentuate the moment with a grandiose light. What we deduced after the set…no matter where you are, people like to dance. And dance they did. TMI’s emerging artist T. Champagne was well received on our first international run.

A vast outdoor atrium opened itself to the balconies of Casco and a quick walk down the stairs inside led you to an underground bar, Relic. Inside the bar itself, a dungeon filled with late night partiers and incredible, inexpensive drinks. As the delicate glow of light bounced off the old stone walls and onto the patrons, Relic’s funky vibe infused with a preserved, architecturally tasteful setting became our sanctuary for the rest of the night, to mingle with travelers from around the world.

We finally bid our goodbyes and sauntered back to our sweet Casa Sucre retreat, sat on our iron balcony that reminded us of our dear New Orleans, and popped a glass of champagne that our hostess had kindly left in our room. Here’s to a great night! Late night in Casco Viejo couldn’t get any better than this.

Another interesting thing we found in Panama is that no one is a stranger. At Mojito’s, Jason, musician and the manager of Lunas Castle/Relic Bar, invited us over to see his space and share a quick cocktail. As exhausted as we were and as early as we knew we had to wake, we also knew that this was probably one of those experiences we didn’t want to miss. How right we were!

Luna’s Castle serves as an upscale hostel (with a more than reasonable nightly rate) with more amenities than the average hostel-goer could imagine, coupled with stunning murals and international travelers and expats.

Relic

Travel Tips: ¬ Buy an international cell phone or a special SIM chip when you arrive http://www.movistar.com.pa/onsite/index.php ¬ Know the name of the specific neighborhood where you are staying. ¬ Take a map of the city to your concierge or host where you are staying and have them mark the areas of town that are safe to walk. ¬ Go to the wharf and try as many types of ceviche as you can.

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Daru

(Santiago, Chile)

There is something about a Spanish influence in music that always strikes you. And there’s something about that Latino flair that never disappoints. Maybe it’s the soft maracas in the back, or the trumpets that can go from subtle to vibrant at the drop of a hat. Maybe it’s just the way it makes you feel, whether you get up to do the salsa or sit back to enjoy a cocktail and a Cuban. But there is one thing that is for certain; Spanish music, no matter if it’s straight from Madrid or the small country of Chile in South America (where Daru are based), it has an extremely distinct sound. There lies the blessing and the curse; it’s hard to mask and/or merge some Spanish influence into a lot of music without it taking over. This comes from the pride of the people, and the heritage that they love to express. And that is where Daru really shines. Just from their single “Pa Que Se Sienta” (or in English, “Sitting Pa”) the Spanish sway is definitely palpable. Yet, it doesn’t overpower; it simply compliments the rest of the sounds. There is unquestionably a hip-hop base, but the overall melody is trickling with jazz accents of piano and bass. However, it’s soulful in the way it’s delivered, giving you a feeling of smooth passion. The overlapping vocals are a very nice touch on top of all this. Daru’s lyrics are all based on strong social themes, which in turn landed them promotional backing from the National Council for Culture and Arts, helping them release their first, self-titled album. Daru has been in the game for awhile, appearing on The X Factor: Chile and getting production help from noted sound mixers Chalo G and Duboy. But these guys don’t need a show to make them famous. One listen and you’ll be jiving to the cool and laid-back sounds of a band that’s soon to be making a come up.

“Daru’s lyrics are all based on strong social themes, which helped them release their first, self-titled album.”

JooYoung Park

(Seoul, Korea)

JOOYOUNG PARK did something to me that does not always happen when I review international bands on BalconyTV; he made me want to learn the lyrics. That being said, it was hard researching this artist since almost everything was in Korean.

But the song that was performed, “Tell Me,” about wanting to express your love more, left me rather open-ended. As I listened to the song in Korean, I started to get over-analytical, thinking “What kind of love is he trying to express? Is it to a girl? Are the lyrics like a pop song? Is it cheesy? I can’t tell.”

Within another minute, I could not have cared about any of those questions less. The disposition that the song seemed to exude was such an easy and pleasing experience. The smooth, simple guitar and percussion parts gave me such a laid-back feeling and the song itself followed its own unique key signature that really swooned, reminiscent of a Coldplay acoustic cover. Where the song really shined was in the perfectly placed keyboard work

by YOONJEOUNG JI. She had a very simple yet

faultless way of changing the pace of the song, making it hoppier with arpeggios or cutting it back with good ol’ fashioned chords. All these elements fit JOOYOUNG PARK’s voice rightly. At first I thought he might stay in his lower register and just lowly croon, but he showed me that he had ups and downs, with a beautiful chorus that has been stuck in my head for three days. It was all about the atmosphere for me; they delivered something that concurrently gave me a sense for the band and illustrated their style. It’s that universal element that every band tries to reach, to translate easily between coffee house corner goodness all the way to a large crowd. Though it is not well-known in the states, JOOYOUNG PARK’s Steadfast Love has just been released and you can find it on their facebook page. Do yourself a favor, regardless of what genre of music you listen to, and try to download this album.

(Totnes, Devon)

Harry Vinnicombe Seventeen year old singer/songwriter Harry Vinnicombe is plain and simple, and there is nothing wrong with that. To classify him as folk, pop, blues or soul would be acceptable; his music has qualities of all the above. He blends each style in a way that never lets one sound out rule another. This is a difficult thing to do, finding simplicity in complexity, especially considering his age. The song performed on BalconyTV has all the classic elements; cool, easy listening, four chord progression, with the classic guitarbass-drum trio, and a catchy chorus that is fun and easy to sing along with. With this kind of style and flair, Vinnicombe seems to possess the young potential to create some universally great pop songs. Layering and showcasing certain sounds is always important for these types of songs, and it is not overlooked when the bassist switches to saxophone and coats on a troublefree, soothing sax line that is really the gem of the song. Reminiscent of a younger and compact Dave

Matthews Band, Vinnicombe and company have a cool feel that anyone can relate to. The band has been playing a lot of festivals, and from what I can gather from his Facebook page, people are digging the music. Something that speaks loudly about Vinnicombe and his passion for the music was under the ‘Influences’ section on his facebook page: “Everything. Even if I don’t like it I can still learn from it.” Spoken like a true musician who realizes the power that music has on the world and the people in it. Although his genre may be basic and not ‘unique’ to today’s popular styles, he delivers his tunes in a very meaningful technique. He’s already turned heads at all types of venues in Devon to the U.K. You need to be the next one to discover him and give him support. His five song EP Heart & Soul has been released and is available for purchase and download. Go get it!

Five Lithuanian, long haired, grunge-tastic rockers may just be the new thing for the hungry rock n’ rollers of the 21st century. Roadkill, based in Vilnius, Lithuania, are a force to be reckoned with. Before performing their song on BalconyTV, lead singer Linas Kriščiunas jokingly introduces the rest of the band as the “short one” (guitarist/back vocalist Daniel Sinkevič), the “funny one” (guitarist Lukas Eliakas), the “fat one” (bass guitarist Kipras Radys), the “old one” (drummer Andrius Valčiukas), and then finally referring to himself as “Batman.” Naturally, I didn’t know how seriously I could take the band. I’ve learned to never judge a book by its cover, but in the messy upkeep and dirty personas that these guys presented, I was prepared for either a full on loud attack of progressive rock music or a dumb downed Nirvana-esque ballad. What I got was neither.

With a slickly polished guitar lick, the song “She Got Love” really started rolling. All of a sudden the bass was kicking in, keeping that important and sometimes overlooked backbone to the band (not to mention Radys over encompassing charisma that is hard to look away from). As the vocals jumped in the mix, I started to

fall in love with Kriščiunas’s tremendously authentic voice. The power behind his vocals really mixes with the alternative strength within the band. If that wasn’t enough, not one guitarist but BOTH harmonized along, which is always a huge plus for me when reviewing bands. The more members of a band that can sing, the better; it broadens their horizons and allows them to go outside the box and reach new heights in the music they create. All of a sudden, I am looking at a group of guys that have so much energy and magnetism that is reminiscent of even early classic rock bands, specifically a post Van Halen, with David Lee Roth hair look alikes.

Roadkill has not released an album, but the boys have won best underground band in Lithuania and can’t stop touring. Check them out on Facebook and discover them before everyone else.

Roadkill (Kaunas, Lithuania)

Little Hurricane (Melbourne, Australia)

Here is the deal with Melbourne. The best bands to come in the next few years are going to have gotten their start in Melbourne. The amount of pure, musical talent pouring out of that area is astonishing. BalconyTV Melbourne’s archive has a ton of amazing, original, and purely soulful artists. If I could write about them all I would, but I went with the artist that knocked me off my feet. Little Hurricane is a force to be reckoned with, no pun intended. Funnily enough, they are American. The duo of Anthony “Tone” Catalone and Celeste “CC” Spina started with a bang after finding each other on Craiglist. Six months later the pair brought home the Best New Artist award at the 2010 San Diego Music Awards. Their recent popularity has started to go international, making them widespread in not just the states but all over the world, hence their highlight on the Melbourne channel. Guitarist and lead singer Tone has been working with and around music for years; in 2010 he was working as a sound engineer that tuned and recorded huge acts including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Gwen Stefani and Metallica. Already flooded with influence, Tone was destined to make good music. Little Hurricane is destined to be the next Lumineers, with a similar passion for lyrics and an effortless sense for melody and cadence. The moment I watched them, I was instantly reminded of the White Stripes. The type of dirty blues that they played was evocative of Jack White, and I think it’s pretty ironic that female drummer Spina and Meg White are identical in their driving rhythmic edge. Little Hurricane seeps soul, and the song “Haunted Heart” puts a beautiful stamp on their sound. The band self describes itself as “small but powerful,” which couldn’t be more accurate.

Little Hurricane is, quite literally, going to take the world by storm.

They have already announced they will start touring around the new year, so be on the lookout.

Adrenalin (Istanbul, Turkey)

Remember rock music in the 90s and then the prevalence of grunge in the early 2000s?

Now the underground scene has changed to a lot of electronic dance music, and it seems rock and grunge has a feeling of “been there, done that.” One might even say it has become a bit mainstream. However, a band by the name of Adrenalin from Istanbul, Turkey feels quite differently. Its style is more along the lines of play the old stuff, but add a kick (of adrenaline). The band was formed upon the members’ love for 90s rock music and a little bit of grunge, but their goal is to perform 90s rock with a modern twist. Add some funky riffs from the electric guitar and a little bit of energy and you’ve got Adrenalin. Umut Baydar, Adrenalin’s vocalist and electric guitarist, had the inspiration for the band and invited Lana, the bass guitarist, to join in the journey. The first leg of the adventure that is creating a band included an overseas concert in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and then on to work on Adrenalin’s first album. After much hard work, the band’s freshman album was complete in June 2011 with a premiere in December of that year. The duo wants to bring some of the good stuff from the 90s to rock’n’roll lovers all over the world, but to keep the music progressive and the audience on their toes for what’s next in the rock scene.

Bernhard Eder

(Vienna, Austria)

other musicians and formed another band. Now armed with new material, new mates and new desire Tales From The East Side resulted.

If you think music in Austria might be confined to the likes of Schubert, Strauss and Mozart then think again. Think melodic, think icy ambience, think entranced psychedelic, think Bernhard Eder. Having produced several albums Bernhard recently released a new album Post Break Up Coffee, but more on that later.

He grew up much like any other young aspiring musician from the rural majesty of Austria where the foundation for his musical and theatrical career began budding. Wa:rum, his first band, began the circuit of playing for parties and small festivals. During this time Bernhard began studying audio engineering and jazz at the Vienna Conservatory.

Like many young musicians he found himself craving independence, so he moved to Berlin where he continued blossoming. The Living Room Sessions was the first result of his new found liberty and garnered more radio time across Germany and Austria. Bernhard bonded with

Now at home in Vienna Bernhard has truly matured. The release of two more albums, the EP The Unexpected and To Dissappear Doesn’t Mean To Run Away, ensued.

This gave way to an invitation from the prestigious Max Reinhardt Seminar to write the music for Die Nibelungen, originally a two-part silent fantasy film by acclaimed director Fritz Lang. Not only writing the music, he found himself cast as a player in the production. All the while, Post Break Up Coffee was conceptualizing.

Post Break Up Coffee sounds like Eliot Smith with a dash of Portishead; sort of an audio Dali sprinkled with floral acoustic bouquets stemmed by synthetic musings.

Strip away the superficial skin and you will find genuine naked emotion. This guy gets it. He gets that music is a relationship between creator and listener. He bears his vulnerability with Post Break Up Coffee so embrace it as you would a lover.

Gnucci (Johannesburg, South Africa)

Formally known as Gnucci Banana (banana was dropped recently for reasons unknown), Swedish vocalist/rapper/songwriter Gnucci knows how to handle her music. I’ve reviewed a lot of rap artists and there is always one thing I look for: owning your lyrics and feeling the beat. It’s why hype rap and dubstep have become so popular. However respectable and intellectual rappers lyrics may be, sometimes you just want fast-talking craziness and loud, pounding beat drops. Sometimes you just want to dance. This is where Gnucci really shines. Right when the claps kicked off her single “Oh My Goodness!” I knew I was in for a treat. Ferociously attacking her lyrics, Gnucci’s style of music has all the awesome ghettoness that’s reminiscent of M.I.A., walking a thin line of electronic, house and dubstep that almost needs to be classified in its own genre. Gnucci lives up to her tunes, and where some artists would just stand there while the chorus of their song plays out on a pre-recorded track, Gnucci seizes this opportunity to dance around and fool with her posse before running back up to the microphone. Her rapping style is vicious and speedy but in a controlled way, where a similar artist like Nicki Minaj seems disorderly and fanatical. Gnucci is someone I would want to go to the club with.

She’s spicy, but very much seems down-to-earth.

Her playful qualms throughout the performance were an obvious testament to her actual persona. It just seemed too natural to be a front. With strong collaboration and vocal hype support from super dub underground artist Spoek Mathamba, Gnucci has released a four song EP on her own imprint Famalam Records/ Sony Music. With an EP out and tour dates to be announced, there soon will be a full, all out assault to the rap world from this chick. She’s doing something different and doing it well, and that’s has to be respected.

Annaca Throughout the past decade, the world of music has witnessed a significant rise in the creation and adoration of groups with lead female counterparts.

Rising stars such as Adele, Lana Del Ray, and Santi White of Santigold are taking the music world by storm with their powerful, soulful vocals and ability to connect with listeners all around the globe. With this in mind, it is no wonder that Brighton based Annaca is able to follow closely in their footsteps.

Annaca’s band consists of Ben (drums, backing vox), Harrison (guitar and backing vox), and Leo (bass, keys, and backing vox). Annaca has been spreading their soul throughout Brighton and surrounding areas, performing at events such as Britain’s biggest event of the decade; the 2012 Olympics on the Emerging Icons stage. Annaca lists icons such as Billie Holiday, Etta James, Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan as her primary influences. Her deep, soulful

(Brighton, UK) voice captivates listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

One cannot help but sing along whilst listening to songs such as “Don’t Like to Admit It” and “Delilah.”

Annaca’s stage presence and eccentric style are simply captivating. Her jazzy vocal melodies and harmonies give the music a reminiscent aura that makes one feel as if she is inviting her listeners into her innermost thoughts and convictions. The band as a whole has many exciting happenings to look forward to, such as the release of their song “Delilah” on the Emerging Icons in the Park album. Annaca has been writing and performing songs for her debut album, collaborating with individuals such as Jim Lowe of Stereophonics. This young, vibrant lady is setting herself up for something spectacular so be on the lookout for up-and-coming releases. Be sure to show this group some love by “liking” them on Facebook and following them on Twitter!

Planet Emily

The band has played more than 200 concerts, including opening acts for famous bands such as PUR, Sunrise Avenue, Livingston, Monrose, Varsity Fanclub, and many others. ZDF, SAT1, RTL, JambaTV and other TV stations have recently been airing interviews and clips of Planet Emily. Even the radio stations have become aware of the band. Securing a spot in 2010 on the listener charts, the Republic and about 80 other stations, Planet Emily has become a powerful voice in the radio scene. This is a clear sign that Carolin and Daniel were on to something four years ago.

The band has found a fanbase that stretches from Hanover to Munich, Stuttgart, Cologne, Berlin, Leipzig, Hamburg, Bremen and other cities. Even more impressive, their fans range from teens to those who are over the age of 60. With youthfulness and acquired maturity, the group’s music crosses generational divides. Their music is sympathetic and straightforward, but also finds a way to be sentimental. They sing about everyday human experiences such as love, passion and pain. This is the life of both their younger and older fans. Everyone can relate. Planet Emily is meant to be experienced live, but their music can also be felt. It makes their music relatable and fun.

(Hamburg, Germany)

With such a strong music history in Germany, realizing that you have something great is not to be taken lightly. For me, Planet Emily clicks; their voices blend, the music blends and it all sounds so organic.

Planet Emily formed four years ago and has taken off ever since. Founded by Carolin (vocals) and Daniel (drums), they quickly realized they had a very strong German rock band in the making. Reinforced by Timo (bass) and Peter (guitar), the band developed a very powerful sound with skillful use of natural accents. With a unique style and unparalleled live presence, Planet Emily found a home on the stage.

Although the average age of the band members is only 22 years, the band achieved a playful maturity that many critics and fans admire. They remind me of the kids who were really mature for their age. This being said, Planet Emily still finds away to keep their sound youthful.

Duch

(Poznan, Poland)

There are artists who focus on perfecting one genre, artists who focus on the perfection of mixing genres, but rarely does one find an artist who focuses on the creation of an entirely new genre. Duch (Spirit) does just that. They call it akustronika—a fusion of classical string instruments and modern electronica. Akustronika is the love-child of Duch’s research in electronic music artistry as well as their passion for musical innovation and skill with acoustic instruments. The genre is limitless, yet it requires the talent and focus of each band member to construct the textures, sounds, colors, rhythms and vibrations within the aural experience of modern electronica using mostly string instruments (violin, guitar, viola, bass, cello), some drums, and a cajon.

However, talent and focus are the name of the game when it comes to the band members of Duch: Peter Alexander Smith, Regina Bogacz, Stanisław Slowinski, Przemek Dajcz, Natalia Spelt, Lukasz Madej and Viktor Machowski.

The band, from Krakow, Poland, formed in early 2010, and premiered their freshman album Duch in 2011 at the Bees Dream in Warsaw, before embarking on the “Spirit of Poland” tour to promote the album. After traveling 2,500 miles in about a month to create a buzz for their album, Duch taped their first video to the song, “Black Wheels.”

It was not until August of this year that Duch released their full-length sophomore album Akustronika and with it, unveiled their new style of music under the same name. To share their musical creation of akustronika, Duch embarked on a 30-day, 26-show tour around Poland. In addition to high-intensity touring, Duch has performed at SlotArt Festival in 2011 and 2012, Slot Fest “The East” Crossroads Festival in 2011, and Warsaw Music Week 2012. Duch is passionate about their art as is evident in their amount of touring and execution of live music. Their live shows display the true spirit of the band with expressive stage sets and unique lighting to complement their intriguingly distinct sound. However, they don’t want to keep it just to live sets; Duch wants to share their music via the internet for free for people around the world to soak up some akustronika—we say thanks.

=AKUSTRONIKA

classic strings/modern electronica

Bec Laughton (Brisbane, Queensland)

Terms such as “vocal powerhouse” and “lion lungs” are not used frequently when describing young and especially petite songbirds, yet they epitomize the vocal capabilities of Brisbane native Bec Laughton to a T. Having been trained at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, her roots are in jazz which is clearly evident in all of her songs. Landing her first lead role in a major production at just 16 years old, Bec received rave reviews and the nickname “lion lungs” after performing as Dorothy in the Motown musical The Wiz. She was recently nominated in the 2012 Internationally Independent Music Awards as well as nominated and highly commended five times for the Q song awards within the last three years. Bec’s hit “Holy Love” received international marketing interest by one of Germany’s biggest phone companies. After listening to this songbird chirp, it is no wonder her achievements and recognitions are so plentiful. The way in which Bec is able to combine the elements of jazz, pop and funk brilliantly creates soulful and classy, yet modern and upbeat tunes that any listener can appreciate. Her hit “Loop de Loop” is the perfect example of her ability to create a concoction of funky tunes and jazzy vocals.

Bec’s refreshing melodies, catchy lyrics, and booty shaking beats keep her listeners coming back for more.

This petite, young songstress with gorgeous baby blues is on the up-and-up in and around her community so keep your eyes peeled for bigger things to come!

Ignoto

Artists create for many reasons but if you file down to the core of that reason you’ll find two themes; money/fame, catharsis or both. When a group of like-minded musicians collaborate to create for the reason of unleashing the strenuous agonies and heights of the day to day it can be something dramatic and uplifting simultaneously. I say this only because I’m struck upon my discovery of the band Ignoto whose raw musical prowess is truly something special among the other bands I’ve listened to from the Lisboa area. This is music stripped of pretense, there’s no vocals to distract from the energy of the music that practically pummels the eardrums, and no covering up of hard rock influences while maintaining originality. Ignoto reminds me a bit of early Kyuss but more progressive and focused.

All elements of “stoner rock” are prevalent, but the mindless riffing that permeates the genre is instead replaced by intelligent song structuring that lulls the listener into hypnosis like a funeral dirge before swinging unpredictably into mania. Post rock is too vague a name for what these three guys play, as the riffing is less shoe gaze material and is actually listenable to the typical rock radio listener. In other words, it can be liked by all fans of hard rock or anything more progressive. The lethargic pound of the drums and active use of toms act as a buffer to the buzzsaw guitar with plenty of low end driving the mix. Ignoto shines particularly well when the distortion cuts out. This allows the synchronicity of the band’s more lofty elements to align amidst the darkness of a very talented band with much potential.

(Lisboa, Portugal)

Jamming to Spanish-speaking Mon Laferte is like not knowing the words to my favorite song, but I sing along anyway without a care. Mon Laferte is a Chilean singer-songwriter. However her music and reach extend far into Latin America. Playing the drums, piano and harmonica, she’s a one-woman band. Her music is fun.

Her version of rock took me back to my teen years when every emotion was an extreme, whether it be happy, sad or just pissed. In 2002 she signed with Warner Music and in 2003 released his first album La chica de Rojo (Pretty in Red), which achieved platinum selling status in Chile. In 2007 she headed to Mexico with the intention of acquiring more knowledge of its music. The next year her single “Like Me” burst on to the airways of Chilean radio. The single managed to reach the top of the charts very quickly. With a quick look at her Wikipedia page, the same for any artist, it adds an extra element to the music for me. There’s some sort of context that enters my brain.

In July 2011, Mon Laferte independently released her second album called Disposable using iTunes and Warner Chappell as her distributers. The album was recorded in late 2010 in the city of Leon (Guanajuato) and was produced by Cesar Ceja. To date she has released five videos of her latest album Disposable. Many of her newer songs are infectious, the grabbed me and never let go.

Her range of voice never allows you to drift off or become bored with her music.

Currently Mon Laferte is a judge on Chilean syndicate of the television show the X-Factor.

In 2012, she agreed to be the lead singer of Mexican metal band comprised of women.

Mon Laferte has made an avenue for herself and has trekked through the far regions of Latin America. She’s come a long way from being the small Chilean girl in the music conservatory. Her music incorporates an element of pop into the symphony of electric guitars and loud drums. It’s a flare that allows her songs to be extremely catchy.

Mon Laferte (Mexico City, Mexico)

Fluid Culture (Prague, Czech Republic)

An essential feature of every great band, particularly within the genre of jazz fusion, is that every single musician be brilliant in his or her delivery. A tight group of virtuosos who can play together fluidly and have the chops is precisely what you need for this type of band. Formed in 2008 and suffering a few lineup changes, Fluid Culture hangs on as a growing project of guitarist Tomas Bouda who describes their sound as “a place between styles such as fusion or progressive rock with a dash of jazz.” To my ear the jazz is definitely there and any serious listener of jazz fusion should be prepared to hold onto their hat and take a trip through the void, Czech style.

Fluid Culture is strictly instrumental and Bouda wields his abilities completely without pretense; all the musicians in the band are stripped of the fashions that plague the modern music world that tend to replace raw talent that is heard here. From the reverb heavy but clean rhythmic verses Bouda strums unpredictably, cutting the action at the drop of a dime returning to freewheeling solos that are native to the genre, both climactic and breathtaking to say the least, and at times incorporating the progressive nature of the band. Keyboardist Iva Sulcova’s input largely adds to the progressive rock elements interchanging between vast ambient soundscapes to the classic prog, moog style keyboard, punctuating the mix and often the bearer of sudden changeups that add to the sometimes manic unpredictability. Bassist Stanislav Hrouda easily holds his own amongst the former two stellar players, rounding out the low end fantastically driving the mix behind it all and peaking the emotional undertones. Martin Slezak is as solid a drummer as I’ve ever heard, keeping up effortlessly with the pace and delivering quick fills that deliver the goods without being too showy. Any fusion or prog listener who’s looking for an original and promising band needn’t look further than Fluid Culture.

(Kostroma, Russia)

My Baby’s Blues Band

The US takes the credit for the birth of jazz, blues and rockabilly, but a group called My Baby’s Blues Band from Kostroma, Russia hopes to take the credit for successfully intertwining the three genres. With Dan Martynov on the trumpet, Nikita Bulls on guitar, Alexander Aladyshev’s vocals, Ivan Protasov on bass guitar, Yuri Monks on the keyboard, Vitaly Piskarev on drums, Andrew Lavrenenko on the trombone, and Oleg Shtanko on the saxophone, My Baby’s Blues Band has a good chance at the title of Best Russian Version of Jazz-BluesRockabilly Fusion—not that there is a competition for that title at the moment, but if there was, it’s all theirs. The 8-piece band covers oldies by legends such as Elvis Presley, Ray Charles and Bill Haley, yet adds their own contemporary twist. An eclectic mix of members and inspirations paved the way for the formation of My Baby’s Blues Band in 2009. The different experiences that brought the band together resulted in a group rich in ideas, tastes and musical talent. When asked why each became a musician, the responses varied. Dan was inspired by a big band performance when he was 8, Nikita was 10 when he fell in love with the intricate notes of a guitar, Andrew began playing the trombone at age 12, intrigued by the instrument’s uniqueness and complexity, and Ivan’s passion for music originates from growing up in a village almost completely void of music. Vitaly and Alexander’s love of music came from the energy they experienced from the audience at their first live show, and Yuri was drawn to the emotion within every note he heard. However, chances are all of the band members can relate to Oleg’s reasoning behind his passion for his craft: girls like music.

Jatin Puri Some great things do just happen overnight. Or at least it feels that way in context of Jatin Puri’s career.

Puri burst into the Indian live music circuit about a year ago with an eclectic sound that defied easy classification, and still does. Jatin has an ability to blend electronic music to create a totally new sound.

He quickly gained a countrywide reputation for his original and innovative take on varied forms of electronica. Influenced by trip-hop, breakbeat, hiphop, bass and even pop, Puri’s catchy and thoughtful tracks are all self-produced, composed, performed and sung. After he initially grabbed my attention, his bass drops subtlety confirmed that I was spending my time in the right place. Within his short career, Puri has released two albums. The most recent album is Purify which provides many scores for short films. He played countless gigs across the country with more notable shows taking place at last year’s Bacardi NH7 Weekender and this year’s Holi Cow Festival.

More recently, the Delhi based artist won the award for Best Music Video at the International Songwriting Competition (ISC) for “Life is Good.” The video was

(Delhi, India)

shot in Hauz Khas Village last year and features the local Bboys from the Slumgods Crew. The judging panel for the competition was an impressive mix of iconic artists such as Tom Waits, Ozzy Osbourne and Tori Amos alongside five record label presidents and other industry leaders. An annual event that has given the top spot to Kimbra Johnson, more popularly known for her collaboration with Gotye in “Somebody That I Used To Know,” winning the ISC is a huge deal. Jatin Puri’s favorite line from his awarding song is: “Here we go, double time, sunshine forever mine. Life is good when you see it from above.”

Currently, Puri is working on a project for an online magazine that should be out soon. He will be collaborating with a new minimal dubstep group called The Pricks and also working on a new EP. With such a hard work ethic, it’s no wonder he burst into the scene in such a short time. It’s electronic music, but Jatin treats it like it’s a traditional instrument. Art is powerful in its ability to be subtle and still resonate.

It’s Jatin Puri’s clarity and directness in his music that drew me in.

The Flumes (Sunshine Coast, Queensland)

Many people seek music for its mesmerizing qualities; to be hypnotized, submersed and ultimately lulled into its unpredictable wilderness. Ok, I’m no Sigmund Freud or Carl Jung but I know when I’m hypnotized and when I hear something I like. It’s not just because I want harper and vocalist Kayt Wallace of The Flumes to be my mommy – she’s hot as blue fire how she manipulates the electric harp into a sound that’s all her own gives The Flumes their hypnotic quality. She does for the electric harp what Jean Luc Ponty did for the electric violin adding wah and psychedelic textures to what is traditionally thought to be a more classical instrument. Wallace’s harp streams solid warmth seamlessly in a clean medley of folk and jazz and accompanied by her unique vocal delivery, weaving both subtle whispers and soulful flair, makes for an outstanding front woman.

Accompanying her are two bandmates Stephen Beattie taking up dual responsibilities on guitar and bass, and Elliot Gwynn on the drums. Tracks with Beattie on bass tend to have a jazzier feel with a focus on low end driving the mix through a series of groovy vibes as Wallace handles the melody. A master track “Firefly” features Beattie on acoustic rhythm guitar and shows the band’s overall flexibility to carry songs either by bass or no bass. Gwynn’s compatibility with her bandmates is like magic, fusing minimal yet steady rhythms holding it all together. While The Flumes’ brief recording history maintains only one EP, the five track Swell, it comes as no surprise that they’ve already gained some worthy attention, being named “highly commended,” on tracks one and five of that EP by the Queensland Music Awards. All we can say now is “We want more!”

Suzy Connolly (Sydney, Australia)

She’s the girl that has a song for everything.

Songwriter, guitarist and vocalist Suzy Connolly is a musical powerhouse who doesn’t hide a single bit of emotion. In 2010 Connolly partnered with producer and musician Josh Schuberth (Josh Pyke, Ben Folds) and recorded her much anticipated debut solo album Night Larks.

Immersed in alternative pop, I fell for her because this record beckons to those who approach their feelings with honest confidence, a subtle fear of failure, and a love for the pop gems of modern music. Suzy’s demeanor in her music echoed and influence of surf pop. So for me, it was heartfelt and not overbearing.

Chris Familton wrote for Doubtful Sounds earlier this year that, “sometimes an album has its way with you, works its way inside your head and your heart, takes up residence and begs you relentlessly to keep coming back for more. The debut album from Sydney songwriter Suzy Connolly does just that and though for her the words mean something else, the line in the opening track “Gold” sums it up—”One more taste you’ll addict me / Addict me again”...an album that lays itself open and does it

so well that the listener has no choice other than to pour another glass of wine, hit play yet again and succumb to its intoxicating brilliance.” Suzy sings with the emotion that many of us are afraid to even acknowledge.

Connolly’s new album is for the guitar lover.

It’s for those of us whose feelings are such a necessity, that we rival it oxygen. With plenty of emotional toughness, lyrical insights and soaring melodic vocal hooks, anyone who has ever been in a relationship can relate to her music. Some songs reflect Suzy’s recent turbulent times and with her love for delving into the emotional deep end, the artist wouldn’t approach her music any other way.

Connolly’s musical influences sit field of the alternative pop umbrella. Suzy’s trademark honesty, drama and tenderness will find her a home among her great influences. It’s not everyday that I can come across someone who can continually sing about the ups and downs of love and somehow love every second of it.

When searching for adjectives to describe the music of Dee Doyle, a.k.a. “Deetrich,” the word intoxicating is the first one that comes to mind. Her crisp and intense combination of old rock n’ roll and country with a sense of pop allows her to deliver beautiful melodic acoustic songs that put listeners under a musical spell. Dee is the former lead singer and songwriter of Kilkenny band Dali and member of The Whiteliars. Choosing to spread her wings and pursue a solo career, she was recently signed by Reekus for the recording of her debut album Tug of War. At her live performances, she is accompanied by Eoghan Leadbetter on guitar, keys and banjo, Brian Dempsey on drums and percussion, Gavin Lynch on bass, and MJ O’Carroll on electric guitar. Tapping one’s feet and moving about is hard to avoid when listening to hits like “No Job, No Money” and “Bent Out of Shape.” Her folky yet poppy vocals and guitar tunes provide listeners with an incomparable freshness of sound. Rilo Kiley, Iron and Wine, and Joni Mitchell are a few of her stated influences whose style are seen in her songs. Irish Unsigned describes Dee has “a charismatic singer who delivers a fantastic vocal performance…her passionate vocals remind me a little of a young Chrissie Hynde.” Many music lovers have those one or two artists they turn to in hopes of transforming their bad days into happy ones and Deetrich has officially been added to this particular music lover’s rainy day list. Her sweet and blissful vocals and tunes can turn any rain cloud into rays of sun. The gutsy, confident air of her voice portrays the passion she feels for the music that she creates. Tug of War was released on September 28, 2012 and is available on iTunes. Be on the lookout for more releases from Deetrich as she is writing and recording new music regularly.

Deetrich (Dublin, Ireland)

“…her passionate vocals remind me a little of a young Chrissie Hynde.”

The Junction (Toronto, Canada)

Typically, once a band has been signed to a label, they either stick to it forever or continue moving up the label hierarchy. This is not the case for Toronto based band The Junction. Having already experienced the thrill of being major label up-and-comers, the group is back to do-it-yourself indie rockers blazing their own trail with their own independent label. Though many might see dropping their major label as taking two steps back, The Junction has endured and seen great success with their independent label. They have since released their sophomore LP Another Link in the Chain which has received rave reviews from various publications. The Torontoist calls it “a fitting addition to a catalogue that documents the band’s old-fashioned, hard earned place in the city’s—and the country’s—independent music consciousness.”

Songs such as “Futurists” and “My Love Was There” are the epitome of the consistent, anthemic rock sound that the band is able to produce simply because of their highly developed cohesion and their unbridled joy for the music they create. Their third

LP Grievances, released on March 6, 2012, is the result of lead vocalist Brent Jackson’s ongoing “quest for the real.” The album is a musical examination of universal human pathos in all of its forms from brightness and love to detachment and heartbreak. Bassist Matthew Jameson says that the album allowed them “complete artistic freedom” and proved them with a “clean slate.”

The album includes the songs “Awakenings” and “Loneliness,” which are perfect examples of songs that contain beautiful, heart-felt lyrics combined brilliantly with feet-moving, hipswaying instrument arrangements. The band’s ability to continuously succeed and provide the music world with hit albums despite the fact of not being under a major label proves that they are worth looking into. Be sure to “like” them on Facebook and download their albums on iTunes.

These guys deserve all the love they can get.

Sean’s Walk

(Cork, Ireland)

Add a cello to anything and already the music is taken to another level. Sean’s Walk feels the same way.

This funk, jazz, blues, Irish music influenced folk trio from Limerick, Ireland truly plays into the emotions that come with playing music and singing the lyrics that are close to one’s heart. To say that their music is heartfelt is an understatement. The band formed earlier this year, but Sean O’Dalaigh, the guitarist, lead vocalist and founder of the band has been playing music since he was seven and writing songs since he was 12—it’s always been his passion as is evident in his performances. However, Sean is not the only passionate member of the band. In fact, they all have devoted their lives to making beautiful music.

But when an artist is willing to give up his life in one country to follow his dreams of making the music that truly resonates in his soul is when the gravity of what his profession means to him is displayed.

Lucky for Sean’s Walk, such an artist exists. The band’s cellist, Alec Brown, left his home in Arkansas, US, to matriculate to the University of Limerick to study the Irish flute under the masters of Irish music before changing his focus to cello. During his time at the university, Alec met multiple incredible musicians including Sean which then led them to collaborate with final band member, pianist Ciaran McLoughlin, to create Sean’s Walk. Ciaran has had a similar history with music as Sean: families steeped in traditional Irish music, both played music from a very young age, and both went on to the University of Limerick to further their knowledge of music and their instruments. None of the members in Sean’s Walk are garage-style rock’n’rollers who picked up the guitar one day and decided it would be fun, yet they play with the same aggressive qualities and passion as if they were skipping class every day for the love of music. Currently, Sean’s Walk is touring around Ireland and recording their music, some of which can be found online.

(London, UK)

Coastal Cities Although detention is typically a dreaded punishment for school kids, three U.K. boys, Declan Cullen, Sean Semmens and Lewis Slade, were able to turn their “time-out” into something brilliant.

Having never met before, the three boys began discussing their mutual music obsession and soon, the indie rock group, Coastal Cities, was born. The group, now up to five members after recruiting Dan Hardy and William Clark, began making music that was different than that of the local scene at the time. Surrounded by post-punk/hardcore groups, they decided to use their talent to focus on a more upbeat and poppy vibe. The group sounds like the British version of Two Door Cinema Club, whose sound waves always manage to bring joy to many individual’s eardrums, so who would complain? The boys, all around the age of 17, are eager to bring fresh sounds to the music scene. Some may look at their youthfulness as a con, but it will most likely help them to achieve the freshness they are aiming for.

They reference 80’s icons such as The Smiths and Joy Division as a couple of their major influences. Many of their songs feature Declan’s strident acoustic photo by: Nick Price

photo by: Michela Cuccagna

guitar rhythms and lead melody guitar lines, which mirrors the majority of The Smiths’ singles. The upbeat tunes present in each of their songs could make the Queen’s Guards smile. Their debut EP Transgression is impossible to listen to without bouncing around like a five year-old. Although this EP has no vocals, the tones and synths flow together brilliantly. Clash Music described their song “Relief” as “joyous math-inflected guitarpop… the track’s jagged guitar lines hook you in and don’t let go.” When asked what they are up to at the moment, Declan states that they are currently just doing whatever it takes to get their name out there and play as many venues as possible. The passion and love these boys have for their music radiates throughout their continually expanding fanbase and ability to please the crowd wherever their tunes take them. There is way more than what meets the eye to Coastal Cities and they will soon be doing even bigger things with their music. Be on the look out for these U.K. youngsters as they ease their way towards their promising future.

Nothing gets the juices flowing like the sounds of sultry-surf music. I’m not sure if this can be considered a genre but that’s exactly what you will get from The Frolics. They jokingly, or maybe not, refer to their style as “Sexy Psycho Surf.” They’re the band that met in Nashville, migrated to Canada and came back to Nashville from time to time. With sound foundation of Amy (bass and vocals) and Scott (guitar), their latest drummer is Ali D. According to many bios, “she’s female, fierce, and fired up for The Frolic Journey.”

The band has included a different drummer for each of their three albums. The first remained in Nashvile with the county Sheriff and the second left for adventures in England. But now we have Ali D. Each drummer has brought something great to the table. They’re the kind of musicians who bring more

than music. They’re the band that has countless stories that will tickle every bit of awe and laughter out of you.

These stories are what you’ll hear in their music.

The Frolics are more than a band, they’re a journey.

While making good music is their purpose, I can surely tell you that having fun is high on their priority list.

Their music videos consist of a slew of hilarious still shots blending with their hit songs. Amy’s vocal styling range extends into punk, which makes for a lot of fun when listening to their new record Bombastic. Nothing will amuse you more than a highlight reel of blurry concert photos of The Frolics while they’re singing a song called “Alcohol & Adderall.” They make for a good time and any listener will feel like they’re a part of “The Frolic Journey.” Sure they’re talented, but it’s their personalities that will make you a fan of The Frolics.

The Frolics (Edmonton, Canada)

Last Call If you find yourself in North Carolina’s “Triangle” searching for a happening place with live music, craft beers and good people, look no further. The Pour House Music Hall is a mecca for music enthusiasts and beer lovers alike, packing the house every day and promoting local and touring musicians of all genres.