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A Rock & Roll Magazine
Vol 10 Winter 2024
Sarah Faith
Angel Island
No Name Maddox
Possumstock
Artsville
Spencer Evans
Samantha Knight
882 - B Kraft Street Personal Training - Small Groups - Infrared Sauna
'VILLE
Sara Faith - 4 Possumstock - 14 Samantha Knight - 20 Spencer Evans - 22 Artsville - 24 No Name Maddox - 26 Angel Island - 30
Writers Ashley Kettle Betty Sammons Photos Chris Layton Cheyanne Parkans Cody Hegler Melanie Provost Art Jay Mean David Fox Editor James Cargill
Photo by Cody Hegler
Sarah Faith Photo by Brandon Allan
by Ashley Kettle Get ready to dive into the creative mind of musician Sarah Faith! In this exclusive interview, Sarah shares her experiences, thoughts and insights on life as a musician. Read on to discover more about her journey, inspiration, and what is in store for the future. VILLE: How did you first get interested in music, and what inspired you to pursue it professionally? SF: I’ve honestly been singing probably before I could talk - I was always the backseat singer as a kid, I was the classic hairbrush microphone singer in my room, and I remember really wanting to be a singer when I was younger. My dad is a huge music buff, my mom used to listen to a lot of different music - it was just something that was always on and always around. Pursuing it professionally was kind of a childhood dream that went by the wayside for a while, but it came back when I was in a country / rock cover band in Michigan. I was a rhythm guitarist and backup vocalist. There was, at some point, when in my mind, I connected my past experiences with the ability to write them into songs, and my fire to be a professional musician was completely reignited. VILLE: What brought you to Nashville
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SF: The band that I was in came to Nashville to perform as part of CMA Fest and I remember riding in the van with the band, headphones on, looking out the window, daydreaming. I saw the sign that said “Welcome to Tennessee” and I felt this undeniable shift in my chest. I just knew that I had to live here. It didn’t make a lot of sense because I had a photography / videography company at the time that I had started, but I decided I was just going to abandon ship and go all in on being a musician. I was married at the time and when I got back to Michigan, we talked about it and he jumped right on board, which I also did not expect. We actually ended up buying a house in Dickson on FaceTime because the market was so crazy, but it all worked out!
VILLE: What is your creative process like? How do you write and develop your music? SF: My creative process is very haphazard. Sometimes it starts with a melody, sometimes it’s with a chord progression, sometimes it’s an idea I have that I can’t get out of my head. Like a line of words that makes so much sense that I can’t ignore it. So far, of all the songs that I’ve written, only one isn’t based off of a real-life experience that i lived. The vast majority of my songwriting is with the goal of making sense of my life and the things that I’ve been through. VILLE: What themes or messages do you explore in your music, and what do you hope listeners take away from your work? SF: Largely, the songs I write are with the goal of better understanding life and what happens while we’re here. For me, so far, it’s been abuse as a child, a parent with addiction, anxiety, depression, the loss of my mother, and divorce, just to name some things. I know that my story is my own but only to a point. My goal is to write things that people can listen to that help them maybe make sense of the things they’re going through or have been through as well. I aim to offer an empowering perspective and hope people can find a little peace, a little ease, a little better outlook on their circumstances. VILLE: Who are some of your biggest musical influences? How have they impacted your own style and sound? SF: I’m a Detroit girl - I grew up with some country, but more than anything, I’ve always loved 70s and 80s classic rock, 90s alternative, soul and Motown stuff - things like that. I was 14 when I asked for the Rush album for Christmas. I love AC/DC, Queen, Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty… Currently, I’m super hung up on Marcus King, Larkin Poe, Maggie Rose, and The Tedeschi Trucks Band, and I’ve recently discovered bands like The Cold Stares - they’ve got this really gritty blues feel that I love. VILLE: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your music career so far, and how did you overcome it? SF: I think the biggest challenge for me in anything has always been the space between my ears. I truly believe that you work towards what you focus most on and the last one to quit wins. I’m not perfect at it whatsoever, and the music industry can be a discouraging place. But I think tackling the mental aspect of this is the most important battle to win.
Photo by Emily Curtis
VILLE: What has been the most rewarding experience of your music career so far, and why? SF: The most rewarding experience has been, and will always continue to be, when I meet people that have heard something that I’ve written and tell me it changed something about their perspective or their life. I once played a show to a private event full of women in Arkansas and when i was done, a woman came up to me and said something to the effect of, “I’m so glad you shared that song - it helped me understand my addiction through my daughter’s eyes and the importance of staying sober for her.” I’ll never forget that moment because it really helped me see that so often, this music thing is so much bigger than just me. It’s not about me at all. It’s about who I can help. VILLE: How has your music evolved over time, and where do you see it going in the future? SF: I think when I first got to Nashville, I didn’t really know what I wanted. I knew I wanted to help people, I knew I wanted to make music for people and share it, but sonically I didn’t have a clue. I think I got tossed into a flow that I didn't really love and didn’t really move me, so the first song I ever released was so pop country, it doesn’t even exist in the world anymore. I deleted it. I couldn’t stand it. I’ve really embraced my Detroit rock roots and my love for blues and grit. I’ve also started producing my own music, which has naturally led to a complete turnaround in my sound. And the more guitar I play, the more I love it, so I’ll definitely be continuing to proceed in that direction. VILLE: Can you talk about any upcoming projects or releases you have in the works? SF: Sure! I released my second record on October 13 but all along, I’ve continued to write, and I’ve literally got a whole project sitting in the hopper right now. I haven’t started recording or anything for it because I’m still trying to hype this last album out - even though I’m so over talking about it. It’s the divorce album… I’m kind of like, “ok, cool. I was married once. Now I’m divorced. Here’s a record. I’m over it.” but at the same time i don’t want it to just exist and flop… it’s a weird balance, but there’s definitely more music coming down the pike. VILLE: What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting out? SF: This is tricky because everyone’s journey is different, and it’s easy to get caught up in comparison… you really have to get your blinders on. You really have to assess what YOU want and where YOU want to go and let other people’s journey be their journey. You can appreciate someone else’s path without being jealous or comparing yours to theirs. I also feel like when I first came to Nashville, I was trying to connect with people and ask for advice and a lot of people seemed to not really want to have those conversations, which was frustrating. I’ll say that it kind of did push me to just start trying to figure stuff out by myself, which helped me gain confidence, but gave me a little bit of a bitter taste in my mouth. I’d also say that if you feel super passionately about it, cement your “why” in your mind. You have to know WHY you want to do this, otherwise it will all be in vain and it’ll be too easy to forget your purpose when it gets tough. You have to be so rooted in your why that negativity and “no” is just a reason to knock on another door.
VILLE: Who are some of your favorite artists? SF: This list has the possibility of getting WAY out of control, but I’d say Marcus King, Maggie Rose, Larkin Poe, Fleetwood Mac, Queen, John Mayer, Chris Stapleton, Tedeschi Trucks Band…. That’s probably some of the tops of the current list. VILLE: Is there anything you want to add? SF: I just really appreciate you asking me these questions!! I’m super grateful for the chance to share a little about my experience and to be a small part of the art culture we’re building in Clarksville. It’s become really prevalent in my thoughts lately that you don’t have to chase your dream the way you always thought you were going to have to. When I got here, Nashville was the place I thought I constantly had to be if I wanted to make this happen - now I’m not so sure. I really think that community is everything, and you have to give yourself room and permission to evolve, to pivot, to change your mind, to pick things up, put them down… you can still achieve your dreams even if you don’t do it exactly like the original plan looked or the way you thought it was going to happen. It’s really probably not going to happen the way you think…. Give yourself grace and space. You can follow Sarah on Instagram @sarahfaith_music.
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PossumStock
Possumstock 2023 was a total banger and ‘VILLE was there! Such a great event and it just keeps getting better! So much love and music and that is only the beginning! Amazing vendors, camping... FOOD! The new location at Red River Canoe in Adams, TN was just the right venue to grow. Cudo’s to Cody Parson, creator and ring master of this amazing event! 14
Photo by Cheyanne Parkans
Chris Layton
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Chris Layton
Cheyanne Parkans
Story by Betty Sammons
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Ville Magazine Presents: Samantha Knight- The Beat of Clarksville's Music Scene It was a very warm 77-degree morning at the Great American Laundry Mat on Madison Street when I met up with Samantha Knight, the vibrant DJ and Music Director of Z97.5 radio in Clarksville. Despite the unexpected warmth, she was hosting a winter coat drive as part of her remote show, bringing the community together for a good cause. Samantha, the voice behind the mic, hosts the renowned "Rockin' Clarksville" program every day from 2 PM to 7 PM. Originally from Nebraska, her passion for radio ignited when she was just 6 years old. Since then, she's climbed the ranks of the radio business, now occupying the busy position of Music Director at the station. Clarksville Music Scene When asked about the music scene in Clarksville, Samantha said, "There's A LOT of talent here. This isn't your typical small-town music scene; bands play throughout the week, not just on weekends. However, Samantha remembers the heydays of the local scene, particularly the Warehouse, a beloved venue for discovering new bands. Though the Warehouse may be a thing of the past, Samantha's sharp ear now uncovers talent through word of mouth or direct contact. Bands from send her their music, and she listens to all of it. "Without the Warehouse, there's a big dent in the music scene," she admitted. But venues like the Revel House have picked up the mantle, hosting new and upcoming talent. She notes, "It's very 'grass roots'"; the music scene persists and thrives through determination and love. Beyond Clarksville Samantha's regional scope extends beyond Clarksville's city limits. In July 2015, she embarked on the journey known as "Rock Around the Region," a show that spans the entire Southeast, from sunny Florida to the rolling hills of Kentucky. She's always on the lookout for fresh sounds and promising acts, like Dusty Mahan, now part of "dadBop." Samantha admires the evolution of his style, which she describes as "Bowielike." There's also a slew of local bands on her radar, including Autumn Lies Buried, The Other L.A., Taylor Road, Gravel Switch (hailing from Bowling Green), and The Damn Shames. Not to forget Lillicat, who was featured in our Volume 6 issue and remains a personal favorite of Samantha's. Finding Talent What sets Samantha apart is her commitment to making music personal. She's genuinely impressed when bands make the drive to Clarksville for in-person meetings, emphasizing that it adds an irreplaceable touch to her interactions. It's a stark contrast to a run-of-themill Zoom call. National acts haven't escaped Samantha's radar either. Bands like Seven Dust from Georgia and the up-and-coming artist Tim Montana from Nashville have garnered her attention. The latter, she firmly believes, is "gonna be huge," and she first discovered him online. Other national bands, such as Black Stone Cherry from Kentucky and Welcome Eternity from Knoxville, also hold a special place in her heart. When Samantha conducts in-person interviews, she gives each band a dedicated spotlight, featuring them for several weeks and often introducing a new song each week. Her approach is about getting to know each member of the band, delving into their influences, their backgrounds, and the stories behind their music. With Samantha Knight at the helm of Z97.5 radio, Clarksville's music scene has found its pulse. Her keen ear and passion for supporting both local and national talent make her a true rock 'n' roll aficionado who ensures the music keeps flowing in the heart of Tennessee. Rock on, Clarksville!
Betty Sammons
Who’s on the Drums?
Spencer Evans
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I first met Spencer when he was playing the drums in my son’s band, Ian Cargill and Friends. It was Tour DeVille 2021 at Oddly Amazing Antiques. I Remember being impressed by his ferocious playing and a really nice set of cymbals! Now lets hear what is up with Spencer and his drums! - JC
I got my first drum kit in 2005 so I've been playing around 18 years. I never got to be in band in high school or anything really. My influences with drumming definitely come from Jon Theodore, Stephen Clifford, Rickie Mazzotta, Silas Utke Graae Jørgensen, and Keith Moon just to name a few. Right now I've been playing with a Gretsch Renown kit with the matching snare. I love wood snares. As far as cymbals go I love big cymbals and I'm fortunate to get to play on Paiste 2002s. 14 inch hats, 18 and 20 inch crashes and a 22 inch crash ride I love. I'm currently only playing drums with Toxic Patterns which has been a total blast so far. Some of the best things I think the Clarksville Music Scene has to offer is just some of the bonds and friendships you can make along the way. I can say I have met a great deal of truly fantastic people through our scene that extends even further into our own community. As well as for the most part how the music scene seems to have lots of different acts and artists coming out of it or coming to it. Tour De Ville is always a favorite of mine. If I'm ever fortunate to play it I try to always soak it in. The same for Possum Stock of course. Lots of old scene friends were able to come out and it felt like a reunion for sure. I apologize for my taste of music but I've been on a big The Blood Brothers kick right now. Specifically the record Young Machetes. And I am always listening to bands like Pianos Become The Teeth, Turnover, Mew, anything Michael Franzino does ( A Lot Like Birds/Moxy The Band). Also a lot of Hot Mulligan and Foxing right now. They all have great discographies so I'll just listen chronologically at work where I can listen to music all day. Quote: "I don't know why anyone would want to lick a stamp with Bill Clinton's face on it." Come check out Toxic Patterns and any other local show in town that you can!
Photos courtesy of Melanie Provost owner of Watch the Thrown Media
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Brit Dewey and the Struggle Bus
Lillicat Captain Molasses
‘Ville Stage Toxic Patterns
dadBop
Artsville is Clarksville’s own Music and Arts Fair. This event has come a long way in the last three years! ‘Ville was lucky enough to have our own stage for the second year! Great Times! See you next October!
Caleb Lake
no name maddox
By Ashley Kettle
Meet No Name Maddox - a Punk Band with a Twist The band's name may have something to do with Charles Manson, but don't let that fool you – No Name Maddox is a group of talented musicians that have been making waves in the local music scene. We sat down with Josh Simpkins and Chris Taylor, two of the four band members, to learn more about the band's creative process, influences, and what's next for them. Introducing No Name Maddox "I'm Josh Simpkins and I sing and play guitar for the band. I’m Chris Taylor and I play bass when Tyrell isn’t here", the duo introduced themselves. The band's name may be unusual, but it's one that sticks with fans. "It’s actually Charles Manson’s birth name. I’d come up with it when I was in a previous band. It was shot down by the rest of the group but it stuck with me so I held onto it until I started my own band." Tyrell Williams and Darius Dawson round out the four man band. Influences and Creative Process The band's sound is a unique blend of punk roots with flares of jazz, prog, fusion, and metal. "I think we all bring our own little musical influence into the band which is what makes it so great", says Josh. "For me personally I like to describe our band as if Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath got married and had a baby that only listened to Fall Out Boy." When it comes to the creative process, the band takes a collective approach. "I like bringing the songs to the band in increments. I will have a verse or chorus figured out and I will bring it to the band and we decide where we want the song to go from there." The Shark Logo
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If you've seen their social media accounts, you might have noticed a quirky shark logo. "I just really love sharks. I have one of those rubber shark puppets that goes on your hand. I bought a troll doll and gave him a mohawk and some piercings. I even drew him some little tattoos with a sharpie", Josh explains. "When we ended up making stickers I commissioned an artist to draw him and he became our primary logo. We also have the vampire smiley face."
Cancer+Retrograde One of their most popular songs, "Cancer+Retrograde", was inspired by a personal experience. "I actually wrote this song when I found out my grandpa got lung cancer", Josh shares. What's Next for No Name Maddox? The band has been busy performing this year, with their favorite shows being Josh's birthday party at Revel House and the All Hallow’s Steve shows. "We got so much love and those mosh pits were crazy." What's next for the band? "We are writing new material and doing our best to plan our first tour!" No Name Maddox may be a punk band, but they're not afraid to experiment with other genres. "To me it’s when we write our songs as other genres first and then just pretend they're punk songs", explains Josh. When asked about artists they listen to that might surprise people, Josh admits he loves 80s girl pop. "Cyndi Lauper never misses." Despite being a musician, Josh shares that he has terrible social anxiety. "Meeting new people is a terrifying concept to me and my brain just shuts down." If you're a fan of punk with a twist, make sure to check out No Name Maddox at their next show. Be sure to follow No Name Maddox on Facebook or Instagram @no_name_maddox_ to find out where and when they’re playing next.
Contact us at Villemagazine@gmail.com
Angel Island
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I recently had a conversation with Robert Rose about his musical experiences and his band Angel Island, who I was lucky enough to see earlier this year at Flamingo Valley!
Robert, how long have you been performing live? I’ve gotten used to performing from being in concert band and marching band since the 6th grade. I played trumpet in the Governor’s Own Marching band. In fact, all of us were in marching band together. The four of us were in music school together as well. My first ever live appearance in the scene though, was in 2017 at Wicked Good Sandwiches with the Nashville Front Disco duo (Caleb Fain and Josh Hermantin) before they became a full band. I played banjo on one song, bass on one, and a guitar solo on “Hat”. `When did Angel Island come together? It wasn’t until late 2019 when I wrote a song called “Bakerman”, with the help of the incredibly talented Jake Whited. We recorded a demo of the song and a few months later, in 2020 we met up with Caleb and Canaan and decided to form a band. What is songwriting like for your band The unique thing about our band, is that all four of us are individual songwriters and multi instrumentalists, plus we all sing, so each of us write songs and then we come together to put them to full band. Most of the time we’ll record a rough demo and send it out to the others. There are a few songs that we’ve collaborated in writing too. What have been some of your favorite shows? I would have to say one of our favorite gigs was when we played a Halloween show at Paducah Axe where we met the guys from Be Good Elliot for the first time. We love playing PossumStock and Tour de Ville is always a lot of fun! Revel House and Wicked Good sandwiches are also favorites. Oh, and the house shows are a blast! What does the future look like for Angel Island? We’ve got good things coming for the future! We are all extremely excited for the release of our first album, release date tbd. But, I have released a single called “Come With Me” that is now out on all streaming platforms. I will announce that “Come With Me” will be on the album. We also have plans for a second album! In the meantime, we still plan on playing when we can.
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