It’s Not Over: Rocking out Earth Day

(Photo By Jenna Lynn)

(Guest blog by Terri Caputo, the interview following by myself)

It’s Not Over: Rocking out Earth Day

If you were near building 1C on Earth Day, chances are you heard live music from local Staten Island band, It’s Not Over. In October, the pop-punk quartet won the third annual Battle of the Bands at CSI, and was promised an hour-long set as their reward.

Drummer Matt Cabello and vocalist/guitarist Mike Giordano started the band in October of 2006. Later in the game, they added guitarist Josh Cronopulos and bassist George Thomas to their lineup. Since then they have played many shows in Staten Island and Manhattan. The band “quickly gained a reputation among audiences for their energetic performances and melodically catchy song writing,” according to their biography on Facebook. Their songs have been played on UCLA College Radio and CSI’s own 88.9 WSIA, remaining in the Alternative Top 30 for numerous weeks in a row. To this day, the four guys are continuing to win the hearts of many fans, and the show on April 22^nd was no exception.

The pop punk band played songs like “Love Affair,” “Taking Me Over,” and “Better Off,” which are up-tempo and catchy songs that pumped up the audience. Lead vocalist Mike Giordano busted out an acoustic guitar for “Never See Me,” which displayed a softer side to the group. Midway through the set, bass player George Thomas encouraged the crowd to count how long it would take Giordano to down a bottle of water; it only took him thirty seconds, which was rather impressive to watch. The band closed with “Catastrophe,” and received a giant round of applause from the crowd, especially Andrew DiLorenzo from WSIA radio who seemed to know most of the words. Overall, the band put on a solid performance. Be sure not to miss them the next time they perform.

If you want to check out It’s Not Over, you head over to

http://www.facebook.com/itsnotoverband and listen to their self-titled EP.

(Photo by Alexa DiMaio)

Interview With It’s Not Over

By Justin Sarachik

I conducted a Facebook email interview with Mike Giordano and Josh Cronopulos, two of the members of S.I. band, It’s Not Over.

Both members were asked the same questions. The interview goes as followed:

1. How does it feel to finally play the CSI show after the delay?

2. What was it like recording a full length?

3. When you won Battle of the Bands, how did it feel?

4. What's next to come for I.N.O.?

5. Where are you guys in 5 years?

6. What's inspires you to make music?

7. On a scale of 1 to 10, how important is your hair, in the band?

Mike Giordano

1. It felt great, and we are really happy with the opportunity. In a way it is kind of upsetting that it is passed. Hopefully we will get to do this again in the future!

2. It was fun and took up most of our last 6 months. We worked with an amazing producer "Rob Guarigila" who steered us in the right direction and had a major influence on us musically.

3. It felt great. Winning was an amazing experience for us, and we were extremely excited.

4. We will be releasing an album soon depending on where we distribute through, and we are also looking into a music video.

5. Everywhere hopefully!

6. Cottage cheese and songs that make me want to sing and write.

7. 11 ½

Josh Cronopulos

1. It was way better because I would have puked if we played the day we were supposed to, and it was snowing.

2. Recording wasn’t much of a difference to me I guess, it just took a lot longer.

3. I was shocked that we actually won.

4. I have no idea except that we'll be getting a new bassist by the summer since George is leaving.

5. Hopefully we will at least be playing on tour or a place better than the Cup.

6. Just for the fun of it and to do what you want. I think it’s different for everyone that question.

7. Definitely a 2 since I like messy punk hair, but the other guys don’t at all.

Be sure to catch It’s Not Over at http://www.myspace.com/itsnotoverband

Music Saving Music- A Noble Cause

Alan Rogozin, bass player of Staten Island local band, Rise With the Fallen, wants to help make an impact. Gaynor McCown Expeditionary Learning School of S.I. is cutting its music program for the children of the school. This drastic measure is being taken because of the bad economy, and a budget cut here was the best option. But is it really the best option?

I have the good fortune of being blessed with the ability to make music, and see the fruits of my hard work come to pass. I know that music is my passion and my life, as long as also being something fun and very rewarding. Many other musicians and artists not just on the Island, but worldwide can harp on this same feeling. Music has the power to transcend everything from race, religion, belief, and opposing sides. Music has the ability to speak to a generation, or touch the soul of a person longing to hear a few words they can relate to. Music encompasses: the struggle, the passion, life, death, love, hate, and almost everything in between. Many artists can relate to that first song they every wrote, or the first beat they ever banged out on the drums. What Alan is hoping to create, is a chance for a school of children to experience this for the first time too. Tomorrows musicians can be in that school, and not have a chance to express themselves creatively because their music program is gone.

So what are we to do? What we have to do is get together and take up the cause. Come on out and support this show. Come on out and support a bunch of great local bands. All the proceeds of the show will go to helping raise funds for Gaynor McCown Expeditionary Learning School music program.

Date: June 5th 2010

Time: 1:30pm- 12am

Location: 388 Vanduzer Street, S.I. NY

Vendor: the Cup

Charge: 10 dollars at the door, good for all day

HERE IS ALAN'S MISSION STATEMENT TO THE BANDS
"I intend for this show to give local bands an opportunity to work with out-of-town bands to make connections to help them outside of Staten Island. Likewise out-of-town bands can play to a moderately sized audience within Staten Island to hopefully expand their fanbases and to make connections with some of the local bands for future opportunities on Staten Island. This show is also obviously a benefit show to help out some kids that are unfortunate enough to be heavy victims of budget cuts which forced their school to be unable to set up a music program. It is a new school coming into existence during one of the worst economic conditions in nearly a century. Our goal is to help raise enough money to hopefully if not completely be able to fund the purchasing of music equipment for this school to allow them to have a music program, or to at least make a decent dent. I ran a benefit show last year raising $1,050 for the GRACE Foundation (a charity helping out children suffering from autism) and I’d like this show to try and at least triple the amount of money we made last time to benefit this school. Unlike the GRACE Foundation whom gets support from many people, this school does not, and the current students of this school will be forced to not have a music program if we can’t help them make at least a substantial dent in the amount of money they need to start their program. Hopefully this gives all of you reason enough to promote this show heavily, as although it may not be benefiting any band financially (with the exception of the merch you sell of course, which you can sell any time throughout the day, so a definite incentive to get there early), it’ll be doing a truly amazing thing for all the students of Gaynor McCown Expeditionary Learning School. I hope for all of you, that, as well as making friends and connections with many bands you’ve never worked with before, will be enough."

These are the set times of the bands involved :
1:45-2:15 - Eden's Fault
2:30-3:00 - Nevertheless
3:15-3:45 - Not From Concentrate
4:00-4:30 - Spread The Rumor
4:45-5:15 - Step Aside
5:30-6:00 - It's Not Over
6:15-6:45 - The Still Life
7:00-7:30 - Rise With The Fallen
7:45-8:15 - EveryNightDrive
8:30-9:00 - Up For Nothing
9:15-9:45 - Richmond Knights
10:00-10:30 - Avon Junkies
10:45-11:15 - Reality Addiction
11:30-12:00 - BellaDonna

There will be a few touring bands playing this show, who have received moderate success in their careers. Although they are not all from Staten Island, they are close enough, and helping out by playing the show.

Reality Addiction (http://www.myspace.com/realityaddiction) - They were rated #2 in the best unsigned alternative rock bands of 2009 by Alternative Addiction (http://www.alternativeaddiction.com/bestof/bestof2009/results/top_20_ubands.asp)

They are the most successful of the bands featured on this show, playing countless radio stations as well as big shows like Bamboozle. You can look up their music on Myspace, iTunes, and Amazon.

Avon Junkies (http://www.myspace.com/avonjunkies) - They've been around for a decade (the longest standing band on the bill), and they were voted the best original band on Staten Island as well as having other assorted credentials.

BellaDonna (http://www.myspace.com/belladonnanyc) - A moderately established touring act from Manhattan that won a competition with their song "Nikki Without You".

Up For Nothing (http://www.myspace.com/upfornothing1) - A signed touring act from Brooklyn that has been active for about 6 years.

Step Aside (http://www.myspace.com/stepasiderocks) - An unsigned touring act from Brooklyn that has been active for about 6 years.

The Still Life (http://www.myspace.com/stillliferocks) - An alt. rock band from Long Island.

Eden's Fault (http://www.myspace.com/edensfaultnj) - A new band from NJ that took all their members from other bands that had been more established, but have now ceased to exist.

For free samples of the music click here- http://www.mediafire.com/musicsavesmusic

In terms of more info on the school, you can get it from http://www.gaynormccownels.org and there are currently no details on the music program as it doesn't exist yet.

Here is the Facebook invite, now go!

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=107230965985750&ref=nf

Check out a website I'm a contributor of, WEPAwebTV

WEPAwebTV is a fast growing media website that caters mainly to a Hispanic community, but has something for everyone. The main goal of this website is to broadcast new media in the forms of art, music, entertainment, poetry, etc. WEPAwebTV strives to provide their viewers with the best entertainment they can muster. A lot of it is self produced and written by founders Maria Hernandez and Luis Chaluisan (my cousin). They run live podcasts periodically, and always have some kind of footage or video up.

Check it out at-http://www.newedgecabaret.com/

An Interview With Professional Music Engineer Gary Atturio

I have heard horror stories from other bands and musicians about the misadventures of recording, especially for the first time. My band actually went through this when we originally went to record. We realized early on that it would not work, and cut that deal off. We found out the initial go around as a musician is always a learning process no matter what you claim you know or don't know.

Fortunately for my band and I, this was an easy learning experience as we transitioned from rookie recorders, to slightly knowledgeable of what we were doing. Lucky for us we had the privilege to record with Gary Atturio of Galuminum Foil Studios in Brooklyn.

One of the first things Gary told us was the kind of producer he can be. He said, "I could be the guy who just pushes record, or I can give you my professional input and advice." We went for the latter figuring his experience would benefit us greatly, and it sure did. In the long run we were extremely happy with our time at the studio, and grateful for everything Gary taught us and implemented in our music.

I decided to email Gary for a brief Q&A on his insight on the music industry and life as an engineer.

Q&A's

J- What is the "official" name of your job and how long have you been doing it? Brief description of what you do...

GA- I'm not sure there's an official name to what I do. I make music with people for a living, whether it's engineering, playing bass, or producing.

J- What made you choose this direction of profession? (Any life changing experience or was it a simple choice?)

GA- I've played music my whole life. After graduating college, I moved to New York, and went on a corporate interview. It made me realize that I could never handle working in that type of environment for the rest of my life. I ended up working at a really fun, low-paying day job while playing in bands and touring a bit. I got hooked up with a great studio, and since then have met many amazing people.

J- What is your musical background? (What do you play, what's your favorite type of music to play or listen to, how long have you been musically inclined?)

GA- I began studying classical violin when I was about 6. Around 10, I started playing piano and guitar. I started electric bass around 15, and studied some upright bass in college. I can play the drums, but I am probably the world's 5th worst drummer. I wouldn't say there is a specific genre of music I prefer to play, but more than anything I like making music with good people. It just makes the whole experience so much better.

J- What's the best thing about being a producer, what's the worst?

GA- I wouldn't say there are necessarily good and bad things about being a producer. There are some days that are more rewarding than others, but every day spent working on a record is valuable. Even if things aren't going quite smoothly, the artist or the producer is probably learning something that will help them further on down the road.

J- What's the best thing about playing live, what's the worst?

GA- I love playing live, but it's not for everyone. Touring can get tough, but as long as you keep a level head and respect the people around you, it should be a piece of cake. Also the worst experiences usually make the best stories. Once while touring in Scotland, our band's hostel room in Glasgow was attacked by the hostel owner himself, who was completely blacked out drunk! Luckily no one got hurt, we got a free room that night, and we all had a good laugh the next day.

J- What's your crowning achievement as an artist/technician?

GA- Most people in my line of work, including myself, are constantly trying to better themselves. I have had many great moments over the years. I hope that every day I continue to spend making music, I learn more and more, and achieve greater things.

J- Could you see yourself doing anything else with your life? (Why?)

GA- No, because I would make an awful bartender...

J- Where do you feel the music industry is moving towards today? (Mainstream or underground circuit)

GA- Music is in a more exciting place now than it I think it ever has been. Music is more accessible than ever, which is pushing the envelope for developing artists. On the other hand, there is very little money left in music. It becomes harder and harder to make a living in the music industry. 20 years ago, record labels had much more money to spend on artists and studios. These days most artists are taking a more "do it yourself" attitude, which is great.

J- Who's the most famous or successful person you have worked or played with?

GA- Haha, I guess Ricky Minor, musical director of American Idol. He threatened to steal my bass guitar...

J- What's your biggest rockstar moment? (Made you feel like you "made" it)

GA- I appeared with a band a couple years back on national television. At the time I felt like I "made it", I guess. However, I feel about 3 billion times more fulfilled today making music on a small scale for people who really appreciate it.

J- Did you ever work with anyone who just blew your mind or you eventually became a big fan of?

GA- This happens often. I am amazed at the amount of talent I am surrounded by. I think one of the most important things any person can do to further improve themselves as a musician or artist, is to go out and find these people. Surround yourself with them, close your mouth, and listen to what they have to say. I guess it's kind of ironic that I'm preaching this.... I'll shut up now.

I would like to thank Gary for answering all these questions honestly, and for getting back to me so soon. Gary is an amazing sound engineer that I highly recommend to any band looking to record. I would also like to thank Galuminum Foil Studios for housing my band and putting up with our noise. The rates for the studio are fair and they are willing to work with you on a deal or package. For contact info go to--

http://www.galuminumfoil.com/index.html

So Let's Get Local and Head Out to Orange County- A STEREOFIX Review

So I looked out my window and decided Staten Island was too small for today. Using the mighty Interweb I was transported to a magical place called the O.C. I know what you're thinking, why would Justin do that? He is a Staten Island blogger, what impact could he possibly have in Cali? Well you see, it's a funny story... because the O.C. came to me.

It was then when I logged on to my vice of choice, Facebook, that I realized I had a message. This message was from a certain booking agent/tour manager known as, Gabriel Lee. He was referred to me by a mutual Facebook friend, who told him I write about music. Lee told me about a band he manages known as STEREOFIX, who is an up and coming band that is a little bigger than the average local circuit group. When you are local on Staten Island, you are basically confined to a whopping combination of three places to play with the same following for every band. This was not the case for STEREOFIX. It was time for me to jump at the opportunity. So without further adieu, and without me rambling more, I present STEREOFIX.

STEREOFIX REVIEW

"STEREOFIX is an up and coming group that took home "Best Alternative" over Thrice and Saosin, so be on the lookout for them". -Blackout (Staff Writer) for KROQ 106.7

Stereofix certainly exudes the kind of musicianship they aspire after. With a heavy 80's pop rock arsenal of songs to fuel their catalog, one can't help but draw comparisons to the Killers and U2. Of course when being compared to such industry heavy weights, especially the latter, no one will complain. However, what makes Stereofix different from your average local band comparisons is their presentation and work ethic. Both of which are clearly shown throughout their body of work and knack for drawing a crowd. It seems the boys of Stereofix have mastered a way to take the similar sounds of the 80's and popular music, and make it their own. They achieve this all while implementing a twist of modern rock and clever writing. How else would you expect to stay relevant, and fresh in todays industry of clones and cheap gimmicks?

Before Stereofix could conjure up grand schemes of global tour domination or even the simple task of recording a CD, they had to form. The band was founded in 2006 by brothers Ray and Kamren Alexander. Both previously had other musical ventures, but decided to bring it together as a family. (No bond stronger than two brothers!). This must have held true for the Alexander bro's as they eventually added Mark Allan and through much trial and error, Anthony Hainsworth. The band was finally complete:

Ray Alexander- vocals,

Kamren Alexander- guitar/backing vocals

Mark Allan- bass

Anthony Hainsworth- drums

It was this four piece that headed into the studio in the summer of 2009 to record an EP. They had the privilege of working with major record producers Mark Needham, who has worked with such artists as My Chemical Romance and the Killers (no wonder where that influence comes from) and Joe Zook, who has worked with the likes of Modest Mouse and One Republic. Under the guidance of these great producers, Stereofix's masterpiece was complete. The six song EP was titled "The Warning Sign EP".

Tracks

1. A Day Without You

2. Maybe

3. The Warning Sign

4. Save it for the Broken Hearted

5. Best Days

6. Hold On

After completing the album, nothing but good things were on the horizons for these hardworking band mates. As previously stated they won best alternative band at the 2010 OCMA's (Orange County Music Awards). There music was being played on over 250 radio stations nationwide, including MTV soundtracks. Some of Stereofix's music was featured on MTV reality shows like: Road Rules, the Hills, and the Real World. Other notable events include a performance at the Playboy Mansion, and opening for famous acts such as Everclear and oddly enough Three6Mafia. Despite Hollywood endeavors, Stereofix keeps it real by playing for numerous organizations and benefits such as: Rock For MS and Act Today, a charity for autism awareness.

Overall Stereofix is definitely worth your investment of time. They provide easy listening with nice melodic vocals, and well structured songs. The production and sound quality of the tracks is top notch and industry standard. They are certainly more than just a local band, and with close to a million plays on myspace you can see why. Perhaps one day we'll be watching these guys on Fuse or closing out a program for the late night talk shows. Who knows, they are on the right track, best of luck fellas!

CONTACT INFORMATION

http://www.MySpace.com/StereofixMusic

http://www.Twitter.com/stereofix

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stereofix/114581465227017?ref=search&sid=68704318.209009222..1

Email- Stereofix@stereofix.info

http://www.youtube.com/user/Stereofixer

You can also purchase their music on Amazon and iTunes!

I have a major music story coming

This may be by far the most intriguing and "eye" opening video series I have ever seen. Take it for what it is, and believe it if you want. Watch it, and tell me it's not scary...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DikoLMfnEgE

For the Record, Press the Red Button

This is an old post that a lot of you guys have seen. It was an article I wrote that front paged the CSI newspaper. It's about my first experiences recording with my band. If you haven't read it before, enjoy...

(Photo by Hikaru Wolf)

For the Record, Press the Red Button

Nothing beats the feeling of popping in a brand new cd that you’ve been waiting to hear. The expectation of hearing your favorite artist latest work is always gratifying after a long wait. Now imagine if this cd was made by you. Imagine if you have been waiting for this cd for eight years! This is what happened to me. Now bring it back…

Being in a band is something I’ve endured since I was in the eighth grade. I have always had a passion for music, but no matter who I partnered with, it never worked out. The closest thing to recording was on the cassette tapes I made of the band recording a practice. Flash forward a few years and several bands, and now I think the formula is just right. As a band we all get each other. The music flows through each of us like blood through our veins. We have garnered up a local following, and a nice selection of songs. It is time to record.

Process of Fusion, my band, embarked on this journey together, January 6^th 2010. It was a good way to start the new year. We all had our expectations, but none of us really knew what to make of this new experience. Recording at times could be fun, and at times could be tedious and annoying. For me, sometimes it was just downright boring. I am the vocalist, which means, I go last. The drums go first, then the bass, followed by guitars. Since I share lead vocal responsibilities, the other vocalist goes first.

Finally it is my turn, and I must admit how nervous I am feeling. It did take me awhile to get used to playing shows, but this isn’t a show. My stage fright days are behind me, but some odd reason this task seems grueling to me. Maybe it’s the seclusion from the rest of the band in a big empty room. Maybe it’s the big headphones and stationary microphone on its stand, instead of me holding it. Or maybe, just maybe it’s the breaking down and analyzing of my voice piece by piece that frightens me so much. Nevertheless, I had to contribute my long awaited parts to the song. Eventually, I grew accustomed to recording and began to enjoy it…then we finished. Perhaps next time I can record with the same energy from beginning of session until the end, but lets get through this first.

The next step is mixing. This is when you go through every song looking for things to tweak or add. Usually it’s just a matter of raising volumes on various parts like cymbals or notes, but sometimes we can add cool effects to the voice or music. The point is to experiment and play with your sound until you get the perfect one. Once mixing is done, now it’s time to master. Mastering is bringing the music up to the level of quality you would hear on the radio or any other cd. As our producer said, “You’ll sound big”. The moment of truth is almost here…

“Quick, pop the cd in,” exclaims my excited guitar player. We all lean forward to await the familiar sound of guitars coming through the speakers. “Der ner ner ner, dun dun dun…” There it is, the guitar, here comes the drums! I cannot properly put into words what the feeling of hearing yourself professionally recorded coming through the stereo sounds like. If you have recorded a professional album, and you are reading this, you know what I speak of. I guess the next big move would be to radio, but for now the easy part is out of the way. Time to market, press copies, and promote our album and up coming shows. Now it gets hard…

EveryNight Drive Timeline and CD Review for Sunny Asylum

(Photo by Alexa DiMaio)

EveryNight Drive Timeline and CD Review for Sunny Asylum
Very few bands have the ability to captivate a wide variety of fans across many backgrounds. Those chosen few have been blessed with the power to keep an audience on edge, and coming back for more with every performance. I’m lucky enough to know such a band—EveryNight Drive.

E.N.D. has undergone some major changes since their establishment in late 2007. To start with, they were a five-piece band including: a singer, guitarist, bassist, drummer, and a synth player. They recorded a demo cd featuring some of their earliest songs. Unfortunately soon after that, the synth player, Zach, left. EveryNight Drive was content with moving on, when bass player, George Thomas, decided it was time to leave. E.N.D. never panicked because they had long time friend Jay Campbell waiting in the wings. Jay joined the band to play bass and complete the lineup, which looked like this: Chris Monopoli- vocals, Nick Pisani- Guitar, Jay Campbell- Bass and background vocals, Manny Mavrakis- Drums and screaming vocals. This is truly when E.N.D. started establishing their foothold as one of Staten Island’s brightest and best upcoming bands.

EveryNight Drive started to play many shows around the tri-state area, and eventually set up a recording contract with a studio in Ohio. While out in Ohio, EveryNight Drive began recording their long awaited “Sunny Asylum Ep”. They recorded five songs: Can One Person Change the City?, Pull Down Your V-Necks, it’s Time to Get Physical, Emma, Heads or Tails, and Hearts Collide. While in Ohio they also played a few shows in hopes of getting a following outside of NYC.

When E.N.D. came back to Staten Island, they welcomed back former bassist George, and Jay moved to rhythm guitar. This made them more dynamic sound wise. From here on out they went to play the Richmond County Fair, and hosted numerous shows or organizational shows at the Cup. Besides these, they were in a competition for Bamboozle and even played in front of a record executive. One of the most anticipated shows they played was their return show at the Cup for Halloween after taking a small writing hiatus.

Sadly after all this, EveryNight Drive continued to experience problems. They were asked to go on tour with Tooth&Nail famous band, Spoken, for the Lion Hunt 2010 winter tour. This dream tour soon fell apart after conflicts with touring, jobs, and overall lack of funds. It was then that EveryNight Drive seemed to be coming to an END (no pun intended).

It was a sad time for many fans, including myself, who have seen them grow and make music since the beginning. I have played many shows with them, and have gotten to know them personally. Quite honestly, they have been the biggest help and supporters to my band, and I owe them a debt of gratitude. Luckily the story doesn’t finish here.

Lead singer Chris left the band to pursue college and job opportunities. Once again bass player George left to pursue other music ventures. He joined local pop-punk band, It’s Not Over. He is also going away to college in hopes of making the NHL. This left the E.N.D. boys with two big holes to fill. After a little searching, they found bassist Justin Damico formerly of Groove Revival. Along with the new year, they found a new singer, Guy Michaels. They had met Guy when they first started out, and played a few shows with his former band. With this new lineup the original members of Manny, Nick, and Jay were revved up and ready for a second chance at redemption. The new five-
piece headed into the studio to record some new songs.

The new revamped EveryNight Drive is currently playing shows again including the JCC Rockfest, which was their comeback, and the Process of fusion cd release show, which was their return to the Cup. The new sound is very different from the old stuff. They are a lot more melodic and musically driven. The new vocals of Guy are almost operatic, or as Manny told me “He’s more of an American Idol type singer”. This adds a new dynamic in which E.N.D. can explore an infinite range of style along with gradually making a shift away from their older music. As of right now, they are getting back into playing shows and promoting the Sunny Asylum Ep. I wish them the best of luck, and hope to share the stage with them for many more years to come.

Sunny Asylum Review
(Based on the former lineup of EveryNight Drive)

1. Can One Person Change a City?
This song is about overcoming your darkest obstacles in life by facing up to them and taking them down as a good guy would a villain. It then rejoices proudly when they overcome. Chris and Manny’s vocals seem to be compelling each other to move along as the story progresses. The whole band yells out “Your blade is dull!” when talking about being faced by an enemy’s metaphorical sword.

2. Pull Down Your V-Neck It’s Time to Get Physical
It actually doesn’t have anything directly to do with the song, but from what E.N.D. tells me it’s more to do with the image. A lot of rock groups sport the v-neck t-shirt, so it’s more like a battle cry than anything else. It’s almost like a pregame stretch. This would most likely be their single off the album. The song is about the hardships and tediousness of being in a band touring and playing shows everyday. It puts into perspective to not take for granted the time you have with your band like with the line, “Remember hallway fliers”. This refers to the band finding Chris by putting out fliers looking for a lead singer.

3. Emma
Emma is about a woman they know whose husband committed suicide, and how terrible it was for the family. It talks about the trials and tribulations that people can go through and how to cope with the loss of life and the grieving process. It has powerful lines and vocal parts, like when the music drops out and a passionate “And I scream out to God, are you listening?” rings out over the muted music.

4. Heads or Tails
Heads or Tails discusses the fighting back and forth of a “changed” person being haunted by the ghosts of his past, “The phone is ringing at the bottom of the stairs, the ghosts are calling and they’re haunting my past.” He can’t get rid of them no matter what he does, and it’s destroying his current relationships “It’s ripping us apart”. By the end of the song, the character has learned to confront the past with the people in his present.

5. Hearts Collide
This song is about the typical girl/guy struggle over a relationship “Why can’t you believe you’re all I ever wanted”. The song is about letting go, and making a change for the better regarding the relationship.

Overall, on the local circuit this cd has top production quality. At times it may have been overproduced with little metronomes and claps here and there (I say this with confidence because I talked to them about this, so don’t hate). The cd was made to compete in today’s hottest market of music and can easily transition from rock song, to a poppier version on a top 40 station. Musically the style is that of a pop/screamo infused band, like a “Red Jumpsuit Apparatus” or a heavier version of “Boys Like Girls” (sorry Nick). Vocally Chris’s angst and emoish vocals rival that of the excellence of Bert McCracken from “the Used”. This cd is a must have for anyone looking to see what Staten Island brings to the table. However, keep in mind, that although EveryNight Drive has this cd, and plays some of these songs live, this is not what they sound like anymore. So go get yourself a copy before they run out!

CHECK THEM OUT ON MYSPACE
http://www.myspace.com/ihearteverynightdrive