Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Article for April 28, 2010

Today, Wednesday the 28th, Idaho State University’s Student Activities Board is sponsoring a free concert on the quad. The Dry Lake Band, from Logan, UT, is set to play on the Hutchison Quad from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. as part of the “Stress Busters” dead-week activities on campus. In case of rain, the lunchtime concert will be held in the Pond Student Union Canoe room. A free BBQ lunch will be provided for students.

The Dry Lake Band is a country bluegrass band based from Logan, UT. Their music comes from the roots of Americana, pickin’, grinnin’ and singin’ both classic bluegrass tunes and originals.

Relatively new to the Utah music scene, the Dry Lake Band is a hard-working group, whose members draw on musical backgrounds as varied as classical, jazz, and punk rock. The band consists of guitarist Cory Castillo, Kelin Gibbons on banjo, Liz Woolley on mandolin, bassist Wally Gibbons and Lacy Johnson playing the fiddle.

Castillo has played guitar since the age of 14, and he includes both harmonica and autoharp when performing with the Dry Lake Band. Kelin Gibbons started his work on he banjo even earlier, at the age of 10. He is currently attending Utah State University, studying guitar education.

Woolley is also a student at USU. Her career began in classical piano and is currently studying Music Therapy. Johnson started playing the violin at two years old, kept it up through college and developed her fiddling style by performing with Liz and the Pretty Darns. Gibbons, who bears a striking resemblance to Santa Claus, has played piano, trumpet, cello and upright bass. He is currently a lead engineer at the Space Dynamics Laboratory.

Expect the Dry Lake Band to perform a driving, energetic set of bluegrass with passion, sweet harmonies and impressive musicianship. Listen for a few of their fans’ favorites: “Three Piece Suit,” “Dry Lake Shuffle” and “Sitting on Top of the World.”

For more on the Dry Lake Band, visit www.myspace.com/drylakeband.

This weekend, Portneuf Valley Brewing has two locally-based favorite bands scheduled for their stage. On Friday the 30th, Swingshift makes their regularly scheduled end-of-the-month, appearance at the pub. Swingshift plays jazz, pop and vintage rock.

On Saturday the 1st, (that’s May Day!), Soul Full of Blues plays the pub. Music entertainment starts at 8:30 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages. For more on Soul Full of Blues, visit www.myspace.com/soulfullofblues.

Also on May Day, two very popular rock bands will play at the Tattoo Expo in Idaho Falls, held at the Shilo Inn. 2am Logic and Denots provide music entertainment beginning at 6:00 p.m.

This is the 1st Annual Tattoo Expo at the Shilo Convention Center. Denots, a thrash metal band, takes the stage at 6:00 and 2am Logic closes out the night. The convention runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 30 – May 2, 2010.

Denots was, at one time in the early 2000’s, the southeast Idaho rock band to watch, but their popularity has waned. Once opening for Hed-pe and Hinder, they’re now opening for 2am Logic. Just reading the opening lines of their biography perhaps explains why: “Denots was smoked up along the south fork of the Snake River in Southeast Idaho. Lead singer/guitarist Jeremiah Peterson formed the band into a fused metal monster that haunted Darin Christensen (drummer) and Waylen Anderson (bassist) into joining this melodious metal machine.”

Uh, yeah. If you’re into moderately good thrash metal and the nostalgia of a decade-old style of music, Denots is for you. But for my part, it’s hard to hear the good music through the bluish haze of sweet-smelling smoke. For more or less, visit www.myspace.com/denots.

2am Logic is a modern rock band, a bit heavy, but far from heavy metal. I’d classify their music as heavy grunge, melody-driven with thick guitar riffs and deep, soulful vocals. Their most recent CD, “Shattered,” is a twelve-track, full-scale view of 2am Logic. The record is available at CD World, Hastings, Budget Records, The Record Exchange, and Barnes & Noble as well as iTunes.

2am Logic is currently in the studio recording a sophomore effort.

Fronted by vocalist Todd Thompson, 2am Logic includes guitarists Cody Scheer and Dustin Thueson, Kathy Brown on bass and drummer Shawn Ringel. 2am Logic has been building an ever-increasing and loyal fan base by opening shows for Pop Evil, Rev Theory, Great White, Alice Cooper, Korn and Royal Bliss. For more, visit www.myspace.com/2amlogic.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Column for April 21, 2010

Tonight, the Idaho State University Jazz Big Band is playing a special concert at Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Avenue in Pocatello. The show, upstairs in the loft, is free and open to the public, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. For more in the ISU Jazz ensembles, visit www.isu.edu/departments/bands.

Portneuf Valley Brewing has two locally-based favorites scheduled for their stage this weekend. On Friday the 23rd, Elvis Has Left the Building will play original acoustic Americana, somewhere between bluegrass and rock and roll, starting at 8:30 p.m. The music entertainment is free and open to all ages.

Formed in 1996, founding members Angier Wills and Greg Mladenka are joined by Bill Chalmers and when available, Richard Inouye. Their original songs are written by guitarists Wills and Mladenka. Chalmers plays slide guitar and bass guitar responsibilities are shared among the three. Inouye has been adding cello to the mix for the last several years.

Available for purchase from http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/ehltb, Elvis Has Left the Building released a self-titled CD in 2007. For more on ELB, visit site.elbinfo.com.

And on Saturday the 24th, the pub welcomes Unstable Ground to the stage starting at 8:30 p.m., no cover charge and open to all ages. The band is lead by Gene Taylor and Marck Holbrook on guitars and vocals, bassist Chris Willock and Eric Stanley on drums also contribute vocally.

Holbrook and Taylor of Unstable Ground started playing acoustic sets 2001. In 2007, the band became a classic rock cover band, now playing in pubs and bars around the region. Expect classic rock mixed with modern rock and a touch of country. For more, visit http://unstablegroundband.com/, or find them on Facebook.

Riggio’s is back, where the Benton Street Bar & Grill used to be, on the corner of 2nd Ave and Benton Street in Pocatello. On Thursday the 22nd, Volcano re-introduces the restaurant and themselves with a concert starting at 7:30 p.m.

Volcano is a six-piece dance band that combines the best of classic Jazz, soulful R&B, and infectious Latin rhythms, to create a sound that propels the listener to the dance floor. Guitarist Collin Miller, keyboardist Sean Jackson and percussionist Allen Ross front the band on vocals, backed by Doug Williams on bass and Rik Ballard on drums. Check ‘em out.

In Lava Hot Springs this weekend, a favorite rock cover band, American Steel, plays the Blue Moon Bar on the 23rd and 24th. No cover charge; the bar is open to those 21+. The American Steel lineup is guitarist Tracy Turner, Darrell Martin on drums, vocalist Kat Whitmar, Marci Ridley on keyboards and bass player Ray Rodriguez. Find them online at www.myspace.com/americansteel4u.

Jeremy Buck & the Bang make a triumphant return to the area this weekend with three shows: Thursday the 24th at Idaho State University in Idaho Falls, Friday the 25th at the Peppertree Lounge in Idaho Falls, and Saturday the 25th at the First National Bar in Pocatello. Visit http://www.jeremybuck.com/ for ticket prices and information.

Jeremy Buck & the Bang made their Pocatello debut in 2007, opening for Blues Traveler at Holt Arena. Since that time, the band has returned several times, making appearances at both outdoor and indoor events in Pocatello, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls.

Based from Los Angeles, CA, Jeremy Buck & the Bang is a 4-piece rock / pop band that entertains on all levels. Top notch musicianship, clever songwriting and an engaging and entertaining stage presence make for an evening of live music, dancing and fun for all.

In December of 2009, Jeremy Buck & the Bang released their second music video, “Just for One Night.” The song is currently on regular radio rotation; request it from your favorite radio station and view the video on jeremybuck.com.

Just a few weeks ago, Jeremy Buck & the Bang made an in-studio appearance on the syndicated radio show, the Bob & Tom Show. Buck wrote from his blog, “We had a blast performing live on the Bob & Tom Morning show. It was sort of a surreal experience.” A video of their interview is in their blog also.

Expect to hear new songs from the band; they are currently working towards recording their fourth record. Local fans who didn’t catch the Bang last time they were here will meet a new member to the group, Mark Dibenedetto a.k.a. “Mr. Deebs,” on drums. Jeremy Buck fronts the band on vocals, keyboards and drums, backed by Chris Hanna on guitar and bassist Joel Geist.

Linda Alexander
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Column for April 14, 2010

Have you visited your local record store lately? If not, this weekend is the time to do it. Pocatello’s Budget Tapes & Records is celebrating national Record Store Day, Saturday, April 17, 2010 with food, drinks, live music and discounts. Budget Tapes & Records, in business now for 34 years and in the planning stages for a store re-model, is located at 416 S. 5th Ave.

On Saturday the 17th, Budget Tapes & Records opens their doors at 10:00 a.m. with a 25% customer appreciation discount on all merchandise. Live music starts at noon with acoustic musician John Austin, followed by the very popular ambient music of Nyr Lif. Next, the locally-based Rising Son takes the stage with rock music from the psychedelic seventies, including some brilliant covers of Jimi Hendrix.

Record Store Day continues in the afternoon with the folksy bluegrass music of Putnam Together, followed by a soulful performance by Pocatello’s Dan Hillebrant; Evan Norman follows. To finish out the day of live music, acoustic singer / songwriter Dr. Bob takes the stage, and the bluegrass band Portneuf Gap closes out the day.

This one-day event showcases many of southeast Idaho’s best musicians and bands, a full array of what our local live music scene has to offer. The event is free and open to the public; food and beverages will be available.

To find out more about Record Store Day, visit www.recordstoreday.com.

Also on Saturday the 17th, the locally-based metal band Neckbrace headlines a show, with Forgiveness Denied, Versailles, These Cities Passing and The Brave, at the Elks Lodge, Main Street in Pocatello. Show starts at 7:00 p.m., open to all ages and only $2 at the door.

These Cities Passing is a Pocatello-based metal band with influences from hardcore and punk to death metal. Listen for their best known songs, "Gheppetto and the Belly of the Whale," "Rectify and Rebuild" and "Last City on the Left." “Many of the compliments we've received include the fact that all of our songs sound completely different,” front man Neil Johnson said. “Each song has its own unique style and sound that makes it very easy to distinguish our songs and remember them.”

Johnson is backed by guitarists Casey Hawkins and Colton and bassist Shaun Walters. The foursome will be joined by guest drummer Riley Miller. The band formed in October of 2009 for Pokapalooza and looks forward to amping up the local live music scene.

“We're going to try and tour next summer,” Johnson said, “and once we solidify our line-up, we're going to hit the studio sometime in May.” For more on this up-and-coming band, visit www.myspace.com/thesecitiespassing.

Versailles, a metalcore band formed in May of 2009, is based from Boise, ID. Versailles pumps up the energy and humor on stage with a wacky bass player, Steve Collins. “We feel it's important to respect your fans and make a connection with them,” vocalist Tyler Blake said. “Standing around on stage isn't fun for anyone, and you're ripping people off who paid to see you.”

Blake and Collins are joined by guitarists Jordan Kuttler and Derek Pearson, and Jake Little on drums. Listen for Versailles’ most popular songs, "Consume Us All", "Let's Go Crazy Broadway Style" and "Weird Without the Beard." Their self-titled EP will be for sale at the show. Learn more at www.myspace.com/versaillestheband.

To learn about The Wacky Steve Move List, check out my full interview at slowloosegravel.blogspot.com.

Also this weekend, the blues and funk band Phat Bone plays at Taps Bar on Garrett Way starting at 9:00 p.m., and Portnuef Valley Brewing has The Kratz Bros. Band on Friday night and Bender on Saturday night. Music starts at 8:30 p.m.

Bender has been a long-time area favorite band, appearing at many outdoor local events as well as on regular rotation at the pub. Formed in the Fall of 2008, Bender plays original material, written by Ken Aho, Will Peterson and Ed Bala.

Expect to hear groovy acoustic guitars, lap steel, harmonica and banjo with conga percussion and vocal harmonies. Bender’s influences range from the blues, reggae and roots rock. “The only rule we try to enforce in the band is that songs need to have a groove.” Bala said. “If anyone likes live music, they can find most any genre being played somewhere in town almost any time.”

Bender is also scheduled to play the ISU Earth Day event on the quad April 23rd and the Environmental Fair on the 24th. Find out more at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
slowloosegravel.blogspot.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Interview with These Cities Passing

Who: These Cities Passing, and more
What: Metal band, in concert
Where: Elks Lodge, 41- S. Main St., Pocatello, ID 83204 - map
When: Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.

There is a metal show at the Elks Lodge in Pocatello next weekend - as far as I can tell, it's a first for the venue. Earlier this week I interviewed Versailles; These Cities Passing is also on the billing for the show. I caught up with front man, Neil Johnson, to find out more about this new Pocatello-based metal band and their music.

SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

NJ: Well first of all, everyone is this band has very different tastes in music which helps bring about our unique sound. I personally love hardcore and punk, while Casey loves death metal; Colton loves mainstream metal, and Shaun loves pop punk. We identify our style as metal with a little hardcore thrown in there. We have all the aspects of a metal band such as leads, but we still maintain the hardcore and punk feel by having 2 step beats and breakdowns. I love to throw in singing with harmony lines and fun sing-along parts with the occasional shout out.

Our best known songs are "Gheppetto and the Belly of the Whale," "Rectify and Rebuild" and "Last City on the Left." Many of the compliments we've received include the fact that all of our songs sound completely different. Each song has its own unique style and sound that makes it very easy to distinguish our songs and remember them.

I feel we appeal to our fans the most by just having a good sense of humor on stage and just making sure everyone is having a good time. A lot of times at shows, there is an atmosphere of uncertainty - people are sometimes afraid to interact or really let loose and have a good time because of what people might think of them, and that's not cool at all. We try to loosen the mood and make sure everybody has a good time.

We've been complimented by people who love all different styles, which is cool 'cause it helps us appeal to more than just one group. Our original style appeals to metal kids, hardcore kids, punk kids and rock fans.

SLG: Who's in the band? How long has this line-up been together?


Neil Johnson - vocals/ lyrics
Casey Hawkins - lead guitar
Colton Love - rhythm guitar
Shaun Walters - bass guitar

NJ: Right now we don't have a permanent drummer, but a guy named Riley Miller is filling in for us for the time being. The line up has been together since October of 2009. We're a very new band to the Pocatello area, and we're hoping to get out there more and play more shows.

I brought everyone together by talking one day with Colton about the musical contest, Pokapalooza. I told him we should get some guys together and write a couple songs and play the show for fun. I made some calls to Casey and Shaun and told them we told them about the gig, and that's how the band got started.

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town?

NJ: The reason the band is called These Cities Passing is because were all from different cities. I'm the only person originally from Pocatello. Casey is from Shelly, Colton is from Boise and Shaun is from Lewiston. I have been in bands in the past with Colton and Casey and worked with Shaun, so that's how I met them and brought them together. We're currently based out of Pocatello, because myself, Colton, and Casey are full-time ISU students.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

NJ: Some signed bands that we've played with are: Silent Civilian, Bless the Fall, Greeley Estates, Chelsea Grin and Fire in the Skies. We've played with many talented local bands as well though ... Versailles, Atlantis Falls Under, Sworn to Uphold, Forgiveness Denied and many others. We hope to get more $2 shows lined up in Poky and hope to get the music scene alive in this town.

SLG: Describe this particular show ... what can people expect if they come to this show? All ages or 21+? Ticket prices or cover charge?

NJ: This show is only $2 to get in! We're trying to get as many people out as possible to see what local bands have to offer. There are some really talented bands in this area, and I want people to come support them. This is show is at the Elks Lodge on Main Street. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. and the bands are:

Neckbrace
Forgiveness Denied
Versailles
These Cities Passing
The Brave

SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there?

NJ: The local music scene is slowly growing in this area, and we're trying to encourage that. We aren't trying to get signed or big right now; we're just trying to get out there and show people what we have to offer. We're going to try and tour next summer, and once we solidify our line-up, we're going to hit the studio sometime in May.

SLG: Do you have any favorite videos of your band or your music on YouTube? If so, what is the url?

NJ: Our myspace page is where people can find all of our updates, songs, and show dates. Myspace.com/thesecitiespassing.



We also have YouTube videos up.

SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show?

NJ: We're hitting the studio in May to record our EP.

SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

NJ: We're available on MySpace, and that's our best way of contact at www.myspace.com/thesecitiespassing.

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Promoting Live Music - a Good Band Bio

How to Write a Good Band Bio

First and foremost, every band (no matter how small you are, no matter if your biggest gig was playing for your Mom in the garage) MUST have a good bio. You never know when someone might want to write about you or when someone will want to share their excitement about your music with their friends and family.

Many bands make the mistake of thinking that they only need to reach out to their already-established fans. Not so!

This is a Web 2.0 world - meaning that most people get their news and information from their friends and family via Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, blogs and so on. You NEED to tap into Web 2.0 by making written information about your band and music easily accessible to writers and bloggers, accessible to people who DO NOT ALREADY know you!

Moreover, consider your future gigs. The venue (if they're worth their salt) will need to be able to promote you. Make it easy for them by giving them the exact words they'll need to describe you and your music to their patrons.

Actually, you need three bio's.

1. A one-sentence statement
2. A one-paragraph bio
3. A full 350- to 500-word biography

Write the full biography first, then pare it down to the smaller two.

What should go in a band biography? Essentially, you want to answer the W's and the H: Who, What, Where, When, Why and How. Answer the following questions, then rewrite ALL of it in paragraph form. More on writing styles later. And yes, just like your 3rd grade teacher warned you: spelling, grammar and punctuation count.

Who:
Name of your band.
Who's in your band - first AND last names. No serious journalist will list first names only, unless they're Sting, Oprah or Prince. You may be popular, but you're not THAT popular ... yet. No one writes about Steven, but we do write about Steven Tyler. You may also want to include who runs your website, produces your recordings, does your pr, manages and/or books your band.

What:
What music do you play? I know that no band wants to commit themselves to a genre, but you HAVE to come up with some descriptors for your music. Just think about food writers who have to describe what they're tasting, so will you have to describe to your audience what they'll be hearing.
What instruments do you play? Also include a discography of your recordings.

Where:
Where are you from? Where are you based now?
Where have you played? We don't need an exhaustive list - but pick three or four venues of interest. That may include special one-time concerts at venues of note, or it may include your regular haunt. You may also want to include where you recorded, if its of interest.

When:
When did your band originally form? When did the current line-up form? When did you last record or release a recording (either audio, video or both) and / or when will you?

Why:
Yes, you really should come up with a reason why you're playing out. Why have you gotten into the music business? Why do you think people should come to your shows or buy your CD's? If this last one is hard to answer, just think about some positive comments you've gotten from the audience before and report that. You should also list any accolades or awards. They very well may answer WHY someone would want to listen to your music.

How:
This will be personal and individual for each band. You may want to say how your band formed, how well you've done, how you intend to get your music out there, how someone can buy your music or see your shows and / or how someone can find out more information.

Writing styles:
Think of newspaper and magazine articles you've read. Keep the tone mature, very newsy, informative and matter-of-fact. Yes, do use descriptive adjectives, but stay away from over-the-top language, particularly superlatives like "The Best," "The Most" or pretty much anything that ends with -est. Also stay away from euphemisms and slang. "Da Sickest Mo' Fo' Band from P-Town, Brah" just sounds STOOPID [sic] in writing.

Stay away from Jack Black-isms like "Melt Your Face" or "Searing Wicked Licks." They sound too trite, done and over. Furthermore, if you use "Off Da Hook," "Money" or "Kewl" in your bio, not only will I NOT write up your band, but I'll come find you and slap you silly, just on general principles. It is NOT 1996 anymore, folks, as much as Guy Fieri wishes it were. :-D

More advice:
Write your bio in a word processor and do both a spell-check AND a grammar check. If your computer has a reader, have it read the bio to you out loud. Then have five or six friends who know you and your band read it and give feedback, then have an English teacher read it and bleed all over it with his/her red pen. Really, you want this to be right.

Perma-link your bio in several places on the Internet. Certainly it should be on your website AND on your MySpace, but also consider posting it to Google Docs and make it available for anyone to copy and download.

By the way, when your good bio is done, you're about ready to post it to Wikipedia. Consider it.

Lastly, keep it up-to-date. Check your bio every 2 - 3 months for accuracy of information. NO writer wants to look the fool by reporting incorrect information. Save us that embarrassment, and we'll write you up again.

Always include contact information at the end of your bio, even if your contact information is listed elsewhere on the Internet. Include a contact name, phone number and email address.

See also:
How to Write a Good Press Release
Online Event Websites

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Interview with Bender

Who: Bender
What: Acoustic groove band, in concert
Where: Portneuf Valley Brewing, S. 1st Ave., Pocatello, ID - map
When: Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 8:30 p.m.

Bender has been a long-time area favorite band, appearing at many outdoor local events as well as on regular rotation at Portneuf Valley Brewing. I caught up with Ed Bala recently to find out more about the band and their music.

SLG: Tell us about Bender, the band.

EB: Bender has been together as a group of really good friends for a few years now, and we’ve been playing gigs together since the fall of 2008. Most of us have played in other bands before. The band members are:

Ken Aho - lead guitar & vocals
Ed Bala - guitar & vocals
Dave Jones - lap steel
Dan Lauer - harmonica & vocals
TJ Latour - congas & percussion
Will Peterson - lead guitar & vocals
Rick Williams - banjo

SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town.


EB: Everyone is based in Pocatello, except Dave, who comes from Boise, and TJ, who comes from Lava Hot Springs. It’s really humbling to the rest of us that these 2 talented people come from so far away to play music. Most of our setlist is original material, written by Ken, Will, and Ed. It draws influences from all over the place, including blues, reggae, and roots. The only rule we try to enforce in the band is that songs need to have a groove.

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

EB: Future shows in the Pocatello area include Portneuf Valley Brewing April 17th at 8:30, the ISU earth day event on the quad April 23 at 7:30, and the Pocatello Environmental Fair on April 24 at 11:00. We’ve actually never had a gig anyplace in Pocatello we didn’t really like, because audiences here are so receptive, and the bars and other venues are great.

We think Portneuf Valley Brewing is super cool, and love to be there whenever we can.


SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene?

EB: We think one of the greatest things about Pocatello is the willingness of audiences to listen to original music, which we really like writing and performing. We don’t really have anything recorded yet, but are hoping to record our show at Portneuf Valley Brewing on April 17th, if all the stars, planets, and digital gods line up right.

The local music scene is awesome. If anyone likes live music, they can find most any genre being played somewhere in town almost any time. From a band’s perspective, the local music scene is fantastic because everyone knows one another, and are very supportive. For instance, Dan plays harp with us and Soul Full of Blues, Al Kuta graciously does sound for us, and also plays bass with Battery Park and the newly re-formed Country Gold.

If, for some reason someone can’t make a gig, there is always someone you can call to sit in, trade dates, etc. Finally, there are sooo many great musicians, bands, and venues here in Pocatello. Everyone really should check some of them out from time to time, I think they would be amazed.


SLG: How can fans contact you? Myspace? or another website?

EB: People can find us on Myspace at www.myspace.com/benderpocatello. We’re also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Bender/132587642980

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Interview with Versailles

Who: Versailles
What: Metalcore band in concert
Where: The Elks Lodge, 410 S. Main St., Pocatello, ID 83204 - map
When: Saturday, April 17, 2010

I caught up with Tyler Blake, of the hardcore metal band, Versailles, from Boise about their music and an upcoming show in Pocatello.


SLG: Describe your genre of music in as much detail as you like. Maybe list your three best crowd-pleasing songs? Can you explain in what way do you most appeal to your fans?

TB: All of our members draw influences from very different areas; giving us a unique, but still appealing sound. We try to keep the basic sound as a metalcore type feel, keeping it heavy overall and having very melodic parts as well. We try to throw in some different mechanics that other bands in our genre don't have; mixing certain sounds that normally wouldn't go together.

Our biggest musical inspirations are Bjork and The Wiggles. We feel our live show best represents us as a band. We love being on stage and playing as hard as we can every time we play, regardless of how many people show up. No one wants to see a band that just stands around playing their instruments, it's boring and it looks like the band doesn't want to be there. On a lucky day, you'll get to hear wacky Steve tell a terrible joke. We feel it's important to respect your fans and make a connection with them; standing around on stage isn't fun for anyone and you're ripping people off who paid to see you.

Fortunately for us, we have the weirdest bassist in town and he is very entertaining to watch. He makes some awful faces and has some signature moves to look out for. (We will list those later on in the Wacky Steve move list.) We love to talk to people in general, so if you see us at a show, please feel free to come up and talk to us, we're all very friendly. Our most popular songs at the moment are probably: "Consume Us All", "Let's Go Crazy Broadway Style" and "Weird Without the Beard."


SLG: Band member first and last names / instruments. How long has this line-up been together?

TB:
Tyler Blake - Vocals
Jordan Kuttler - Guitar
Derek Pearson - Guitar
Steve Collins - Bass
Jake Little - Drums

Versailles was created in May of 2009 and since then we've been doing everything we can to get our name out there. We were formed when a local band that Jordan and I(Tyler) were in broke up. We knew Steve, Derek and our first drummer Ben from another local band in high school that we were friends with. We asked them to join the band and that was that. Since then we've lost two drummers and we will soon be losing Steve to the world of professional catfish wrestling. No, he's actually going to be a nurse though and has to quit to pursue a higher education. It's unfortunate and we will miss him, as of now his replacement will be the great Cathy Bates. She is only temporary though and by that i mean we don't have a new bassist yet. So if you're interested in trying out, please contact us.


SLG: Tell us where you're from and currently based in what town

TB: Boise, Idaho

SLG: Past shows or venues you'd like to brag about? Past or future shows in the Pocatello area?

TB: Well the only places we really play down here is The Venue and a new place called Brawl Studios. We play shows at each place a couple times a month and when we aren't doing that, work on booking out-of-town shows as much as possible.

We've only been to the Pocatello area once when we played with From First to Last and Confide. The show on April 17th is at a place called Elk's Lodge and I don't know much about the show at the moment, but i know that These Cities Passing and Atlantis Falls Under will be some of the bands playing. I also know that it's 2 bucks and there's no reason you shouldn't go.


SLG: Any comments about the local live music scene, the music industry in general? What do you think is the best way to get your music out there.

TB: The music scene is like having a fat sweaty uncle who's always drunk. You don't want to deal with him because some of the things he says aren't even words and he can sometimes get violent when he's had too much booze. But you have to love him because he's part of your family and you just do your best to ignore him.

Some people in the music scene think they can say anything they want and talk down on anyone they desire. But it takes a lot to get on stage and do what bands do, everyone has to start somewhere. As a band you don't want to deal with these people, but regardless of what you do ,these people will show up when you play. The only thing you can do is ignore it and still play your heart out.


SLG: Recordings? Will you have CD's or more for sale at the show

TB We have our self-titled EP for sale at all shows for name your own price. We also have shirts for sale and possibly a few stickers left over. We plan on printing up some new shirt designs in the near future and you can contact us at myspace.com/versaillestheband.

We have our whole EP posted on our profile, along with a live-video at the bottom. For booking contact our myspace or versaillestheband@hotmail.com.

Wacky Steve Move List:

Churning Butter - This has become a rarity, but can still be seen from time to time. Steve will point his feet together in a pigeon-toe formation and swing the head of his bass in circles as though he is churning an invisible batch of butter. He will sway his body from side to side and often times will have his tongue out of his mouth.

Summoning Thor
- When Steve gets really into it, he will point his bass towards the sky as if he is summoning the God of Thunder. He's form with this move is quite funny and is a must-see.

Face always has a look of pain
- Steve has a hard time keeping his mouth closed and the faces he makes cannot be described through words, you must see this in person.

Very dangerous with bass
- Giving Steve a bass is like giving a hyper-active child a mace and telling him to go play tag with it. Steve knocks over cymbals/equipment or anything in his way, including people.

Terrible balance
- this leads to Steve stepping on various cables and pedals making it very difficult for us to play with out adjusting various things. If you're standing at the front, watch your toes and/or fingers.

Side note: If you are talking to Derek and he walks away quickly, chances are: he farted. We advise you to jump ship immediately as you will find basking in it a very unpleasant experience.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Column for April 7, 2010

This week, the Dodge National PRCA Circuit Finals Rodeo is in town. There will be plenty to do and see in Holt Arena today through Saturday, April 7 – 10, 2010 from early in the morning through the evening hours. But the after-rodeo parties are officially at the Green Triangle, 4010 Yellowstone in Pocatello.

The Green T, as it’s known, is ready with local and regional country music bands and musicians to provide dancing music every night of the rodeo, from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Call the Green T at (208) 237-0354 or visit www.dncfr.org for more information.

Alternatively, there are two Hip Hop / Hardcore shows this week: the first, in Idaho Falls. Rezination and 3vilution headline with Mr. E and Universal Cipher at the El Toro night club, 921 Northgate Mile in Idaho Falls on Thursday the 8th. Cover is $5 at the door; show starts at 8:00 p.m., open to those 21+. Call (208) 522-3468 for more information.

Rezination is a rap / hip hop group based from Rigby, Idaho. The members perform under the names Mumblez, Xyle and Skitz. Find out more at www.myspace.com/rezination420.

3vilution is a hardcore rap group akin to the Juggalos of Psychopathic Records. Based in Pocatello, 3vilution formed in 2001. Their debut album, “The Autopsy,” was released in 2008 from Mediacraft Records. Visit www.myspace.com/3vilution for the latest.

In a similar genre, the Boise-based rap and hip hop groups 33 Deep, Universal Cyfer and United Brothaz are scheduled to play at The Icon on N. Main Street in Pocatello on Saturday the 10th. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; cost is $10 and open to all ages.

For more dulcet acoustic tones, on Friday the 9th, Greyhouse Effect is playing at the Vinyl Perk on S. Main Street in Pocatello. Music entertainment starts at 6:00 p.m., free and open to the public of all ages.

Based in Pocatello, the Greyhouse Effect is singer/songwriter Joe Hunt. A part of the local live music scene for many years, Hunt is currently working on recording a full length solo acoustic album of indie and folk rock, groovy guitar and vocals. For more, visit www.myspace.com/greyhouseeffect.

Also on Friday, a trio of local acoustic musicians, Picard, Byers and Mladenka, are set to take the stage at Portneuf Valley Brewing starting at 8:30 p.m. Music entertainment is free and open to all ages. And on Saturday the 10th, the Boise-based country / blues and swing group, Hillfolk Noir, is playing at the pub starting at 8:30 p.m, no cover and open to all ages.

HillFolk Noir started in the late 90’s when Travis Ward collaborated with Doug Martsch of Built to Spill. The successes from that recording inspired Ward to form his own band, with wife Ali and Mike Waite. The group performs all over the mountain region and has travelled to Austin, TX for the great SXSW music festival. For more, visit www.myspace.com/hillfolknoir.

If dulcet acoustic tones is too little, and hardcore rap is too hard, there are still some live music concerts out there for you this week, somewhere in the middle.

Pocatello’s Somewhere In the Middle is set to play on the Quad at Idaho State University on Saturday the 10th, closing out the rodeo week. Concert starts at 6:00 p.m., open to the public of all ages.

Somewhere In the Middle plays alternative rock – a mix of pop and acoustic rock, with lyrics ranging from humorous to tragic. They released a 4-song EP in March with the single, Second Gear, gaining airplay on local and regional radio stations. The band is fronted by Aaron Ball, with guitarist Jake Tolle, Chris McElprang on bass and drummer Johnathan Brownly. The group is also playing at the Icon on the 12th. See www.myspace.com/aaronballmusic.

The Icon, located on N. Main Street in Pocatello, is hosting a great pop rock lineup with Sleep for Sleepers headlining and support from A Current Affair, Josia James, Somewhere In the Middle and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; cost is $10 and open to all ages. Sleep for Sleepers has what I call that “Warped Tour” sound, pop rock with tight harmonies. Visit www.myspace.com/sleepforsleepers to preview their music.

And last note: on Tuesday the 13th, head up to Idaho Falls for a concert with the hard rock / almost metal bands Sammus Theory from Phoenix, AZ and The Unread, late of Idaho Falls and now based in Salt Lake City. The show starts at 7:00 p.m. at the Peppertree Lounge. Visit www.myspace.com/thesammustheory or www.myspace.com/theunread for more.

Linda Alexander
a.k.a. Lana Banana for Idaho Local Live Music
slowloosegravel@yahoo.com
www.myspace.com/showmetheband
http://slowloosegravel.blogspot.com

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

From DDJ

Friends, after months of hard work and a line-up change, here it is! Our new single is called 'Light it Up!' PLEASE WRITE US BACK ON THIS EMAIL AND TELL US WHAT YOU THINK OF THE SONG.


If you like the band or have friends who do please forward our email: ddjband@ddjband.com

'Light it Up!' is a really different tune for us. It's a pop-techno-rock fusion. We just got this song back from the mastering studio last night and wanted to get it to you guys first!

Listen Here

We are no longer 'Drop Dead Julio'. We are DDJ and are moving forward stronger than ever. If you like what you hear, PLEASE TAKE ACTION!

You can register your email and vote for us to play Warped Tour in Salt Lake City once again! Go to www.battleofthebands.com/ddjband VOTE EVERYDAY! And PLEASE leave a comment on our Warped Tour page.

You can also add us on Facebook by searching with this email: ddjband@ddjband.com

Also, we have a new ReverbNation page and are #1 on the pop charts in Salt Lake City. This new page seriously looks killer. If you want to help us promote our music, this is the place to do it. You can become a member of our street team and get music widgets (applications) that you post on other peoples' pages and spread the music.

Finally, DDJ has scheduled 2 comeback shows!

Friday April 30 -- Kilby Court in Salt Lake City (all-ages) Presale tix for $6. Just email us and we can hook you up.

Friday may 28 -- Liquid Joe's in Salt Lake City (21+) $4 cover charge but get AS MANY FRIENDS as you want in with FREE TICKETS. Hit us up.

Your friends in :DDJ

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