A'tris Week 23
Kick @ Gramercy
InDisguise
Playdough
Process of Fusion
The band gets some blog love courtesy of Muenmagazine.net
Read it here
The one stop shop for all your favorite bands and local artists, from the perspective of a fellow performer in a quest for great music.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Singer/Songwriter Urica Rose is Trying to become a "Rockstar"
This is how I have been perceived and described once people find out I was
born in Texas and live in New York. By intertwining both states, they try to describe the fuse they see.
Where do you derive your style and
sound from?
There isn’t one person that I try to sound like. However, I have been inspired
by artists ranging from Aretha Franklin to Janis Joplin.
How has living in Texas, NYC, and
ATL had an impact on your music, and briefly describe the differences in music in these places?
I was basically a new born when I left Texas so I don’t remember much about
it. New York
is like a melting pot. Since there are so many cultures here, the music
is limitless. That makes me feel like my music will be too. There’s no
end to what I can add to my melting pot of
sounds. In ATL, I was introduced to rock and there the fuse began. I
learned how to write from Meechie (manager of the GG's). He assured me I
had the talent to do so. For a while I didn’t know I could write; I
would only freestyle to songs I liked.
Tell me about your band People of Exile. How did you all get together and how does the writing process work?
I
met the People of Exile through a friend of mine who happens to be a
cousin
of one of the members. Once I met with them I realized I went to school
with one of the other members. From there, I just instantly clicked
with the rest of the band. The songs I currently have with the band are
freestyles turned into songs. For the song "Where
Are We Now" the hook was already written and I wrote the verses and freestyled the second part of the song. Our other song "Shoot Em Dead," I came up with the hook in the bathroom when it kind of
just popped in my head. I took it to the guys and we freestyled the rest and shaped it later.
Who are your biggest inspirations in music, and who would you strive to be like if there is anyone?
I love people like Tina Turner, Prince and James Brown because they weren't afraid to make music that sounded different. They didn’t care how it sounded to others. They made music that felt right to them and eventually others got it. If I could, I wish I could combine all three of their talents in me. I would then be unstoppable. The passion alone that these artists had can’t be copied today.
How did you get together with Jon
Santos to record "Rock Star" and what was it like working with him?
I
got in touch with Jon Santos through my manger who heard of him through
a friend. I think Jon is so amazing! He was very easy to work with
because he gave very good pointers. He also has an amazing ear. I would
recommend him again and again.
What was the inspiration behind the song, and are you performing and promoting it yet?
When
I wrote the song it was at a time when people didn’t understand why
I wanted to be a rock star. They still don’t. It’s almost like a
rebellious song. You tell a kid to do one thing and sure enough they
will do the other and that’s what this song was for me. My stand against
those who wanted me to do R&B. I am a rock star at
heart and that’s what I am going to be no matter what.
Are you in the process of making
a full length album?
I am working on singles and a few sound track projects that I am very excited about.
Best musical experience and biggest
show ever played?
The
biggest show I have played so far was at Teen Fest in Canada. So many
things are happening so fast. I am most excited about performing
at Six Flags and to be mentioned on their web site is so great! I am
also looking forward to my tour coming up in late September. I’ll be on
the road until a week before Christmas. I love to travel and performing
is just an added bonus.
What is in the immediate future for
Urica Rose?
Well everyday something awakens on my very active path of life. I am currently
working on the video for my first single "Rock Star." I am helping with the production and co-directing.
Anything further to add?
The only thing I have left to say is never let anyone tell you, you can’t do
what your heart desires. Just do it! “I am not going to stay in the box you gave to me” (a quote from Rock Star).
For more info on Urica Rose, check her out at
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Huge Update- In Disguise, Tiger Darrow, A'tris, & More!
First and foremost I would like to apologize for spending way too much time away from my blog. If you are a reader and wondering what happened, I am here, don't worry! I just graduated college, got a new job, and have been running around doing stuff for my band and magazine, but I am back! SO HERE WE GO!
Before you read on, check out my official Youtube channel!
A'tris
Still moving forward with the song of the week project, A'tris releases another gem, "I Will" originally performed by Radiohead. I spoke to Mason at a show recently, and he said the videos were losing some steam. So please please please, watch them and give them feedback!!!
Tiger Darrow @ The Bitter End
One of my favorite new and upcoming artists played the Bitter End a few weeks in NYC. I went out to see her, and she was phenomenal. She switched between acoustic guitar and electric cello during her set and played along with her bass player. The set was about half an hour long, and she was extremely confident and personable on stage. At just the age of 18, she expresses the talent and stage presence of someone well beyond her years. Read my interview with her here.
In Disguise I.D.
Originally known as Incognito & DePalma, the band changed the name after Jason DePalma left the band. Sticking with the "I.D." they became In Disguise. Here is their first single
Lori Martini
Lori Martini is a talented actress and songwriter from the NYC area. Check out her Mets anthem song she wrote, performed by Kassy K and Nick Javas.
Jon Santos
The hardest working engineer I know is at it again. He recently filmed a music video for musician Ted Poley. Check out the video below.
Jon Comis
Check out http://www.youtube.com/user/JonathanMichaelComis to see some amazing covers. Jon is a friend of mine, so be nice and like hi videos. Here are a few...
Eric D'Alessandro (ERIX FLIX VIDEOS)
I'll be interviewing S.I. funny man and rapper Eric D'Alessandro. He seriously has some of the funniest videos I've ever seen on Youtube. Here's a preview of one of his more famous ones.
Last but not least, check out some POF news!
Process of Fusion
The album has been ordered and is on the way!
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Interview and Album Review of Jolly
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| (L to R)- Anadale (Vox), Louis (Drums), Anthony (Bass), and Joe (Keyboard) |
This progressive rock band simply known as Jolly, is creating music a lot more complex than their name leads you to believe.
For their latest album, The Audio Guide to Happiness Part 1, Jolly infuses binaural tones in their music that are experienced through headphones. To quote them directly,"The listener is subjected to musical mood dynamics and key lyrical triggers while the brain is fed corresponding binaural tones. These tones are carefully and deliberately interwoven within the music to support all appropriate peaks and valleys throughout the experience." In non scientific terms, this means every song has different emotional experience on the listener, whether happy, upbeat, or even anxious.
| Jolly at the Full Cup by Justin Sarachik |
Overall the album is a great listen. Hearing the transition between vocals and music is really the key of this album. Jolly does a great job of making these cues seamless and work hand-in-hand. It's a new breed of music, and it is obvious that a lot of thought and passion went into making it.
| Jolly at the Full Cup by Justin Sarachik |
Asking them about how and why they came up with the current album's theme sparked a few different answers. Anadale said, "There are many trials and tribulations of reaching happiness." Joe thinks it's easily described as "Therapeutic." While, "Dynamic and emphasis of emotion," is what Louis came up with.
Jolly's previous release, 46 Minutes, 12 Seconds of Music, was a bit heavier. "The new record is our first attempt to really find our sound. It's mellower, but has the same sound," said Louis. They went on to describe how their first album was a bit rushed, because they were signed off of a few Myspace songs. The album had to come together quick for the label.
Hearing their small sample of music, a record label from Switzerland messaged them saying they would like to sign them. Jolly then got a manager and before they even got a handful of local shows under their belt, they headed for Europe, doing four shows in ten days. In those ten days Jolly was able to fully take in a small sample of the European music scene. "They are more open to new music, while people here want to hear songs they know," said Anthony. "The crowds are a lot less energetic, but they really listen. They soak in every word you say and really just listen," observed Joe.
| Jolly at the Full Cup by Justin Sarachik |
In the next five years Jolly hopes to be doing more touring in Europe, recording, and making a living off of music. In the immediate future, Jolly will be doing some east coast touring before heading back to Europe in the fall. They have a video release coming soon that is in the process of being edited. Right now it's under wraps and top secret.
| Jolly at the Full Cup by Justin Sarachik |
http://www.jollyband.com
http://www.myspace.com/jollyband
http://www.twitter.com/jollyband
http://www.youtube.com/theincrediblejolly
http://www.jollyband.proboards.com
http://www.myspace.com/jollyband
http://www.twitter.com/jollyband
http://www.youtube.com/theincrediblejolly
http://www.jollyband.proboards.com
| Jolly at the Full Cup by Justin Sarachik |
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Album Review "White Rabbit" by Egypt Central
Memphis Tennessee's Egypt Central is tearing up the up and coming artists music scene.
With their release of White Rabbit on May 31st, the fans and critics have fully shown their support. Debuting this week at #5 on the SoundScan's "Current Hard Rock Album," they will also debut on spot #78 on the Billboard top 200 chart.
The single "White Rabbit," released on March 1st has already amassed over 21,000 downloads. You can watch the video for "White Rabbit" below.
Listening through this album in preparation for the review was both an enjoyable listen, and a promising experience. Never hearing Egypt Central before, I wasn't sure of what to expect, but what I got was excellent.
Almost every track on this album is geared to be a single. The disc starts off with "Ghost Town." It's a good starter, as it features a heavy intro with melodic keys in the background.
Up next is of course the namesake of the album, "White Rabbit." This track is quickly taking over my playlist for most played song. As a single it is absolutely perfect. It displays everything the band showcases, and has an incredibly catchy chorus.
Track three, "Goodnight," serves as the slow single. It has that grungy Stone Temple Pilots/Creed feel to it. While the next track, "Kick Ass," has a Guns & Roses feel to it. It is a step up from the grunge into the gritty.
"Change" is more of a contemporary/alternative single for the radio crowd not looking to really rock out. "Drug" provides the listener with a little screaming on the track. It has a catchy chorus, but is more of a filler.
"Down in Flames" provides solid rock throughout, but didn't really stick on me. The next song however, picks the end of the album up with the strong "Enemy Inside." It is a slower rock ballad much in vain of Evanescence or Three Days Grace. We are reintroduced to some strings in this track, and it is a great radio play if they release it as one.
"Blame" is a strong chorus driven song, but is another filler in my opinion. "Dying to Leave" brings more of the dynamics back with a medium tempo balance between music and vocals.
"Surrender" is easily the weakest track. When I say weak, I don't mean terrible. The problem is the strong songs are "really strong."
"Backfire" is a great closeout to the album. It is an acoustic track and is a nice departure from the heavy rock. It's a nice touch that let's you hear the strength in John Falls voice.
Overall this album is an exceptional release, and should continue to do well as it makes it's way up the charts. Expect to hear a lot more from Egypt Central as their fans chase after the White Rabbit.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Huge Mega Update!!!
Band Spotlight
If you've never heard of the band Moving Mountains, I suggest you look them up immediately or read the interview I had with their singer Greg. Doing an album review Waves is on the things to do list. Anyway, check out their new video for "Cascade" below.
Another band that has been brought to my attention recently is, The Body Rampant. I was sent their music video for "Sativa." They recently released their new album, Transient Years on April 5th. I'm not sure who they remind me of yet (which is a good thing), but they have that same Moving Mountains feel to them. I guess for the time being we will go with Armor for Sleep meets a melodic Taking Back Sunday. Check out their very interesting video below.
A'tris song of the week
As usual, I will remain faithful to my buddy Mason of A'tris and update you all on the song of the week project. Can you believe they are up to week 21 already? Keep up the good work boys! Check out 20 and 21 below.
Playdough Releases New video
Don't worry my hip-hop heads, I have something for you too! Check out Playdough's new video for "Ya Heard" featuring Mr. Dibbs vs. the Black Keys. Read my interview and review of his album here.
Jon Santos of Fallzone Releases a Teaser
My favorite producer, Jon Santos of 1176 Studios, gave us a little promo of what's going to be on the new Fallzone album with a backyard BBQ rendition of "Dance with Me." Give it a listen below.
Oh yeah, and this too
New Episode of Hollywood Girl
Speaking of Jon Santos, have you seen the show he works on, Hollywood Girl? Congratulations are in order because Hollywood Girl will soon be featured on a local channel out in California. Courtney Zito, keep up the good work! Watch the new episode below.
Process of Fusion
Last but certainly not least in my heart, check out my band in the Aquarian Weekly (click that). Special shout out to Dave Incognito for the hook up. Also, for anyone wondering on the status of the new album, it's almost here. It is completely finished, we are just in the process of creating artwork and getting some background stuff taken care of. Listen here for the first two singles.
Also, check out a side project of mine with singer/songwriter Matt Beck, called Cross Town Rivals. Listen to our first single "Fool Me Twice" here.
If you've never heard of the band Moving Mountains, I suggest you look them up immediately or read the interview I had with their singer Greg. Doing an album review Waves is on the things to do list. Anyway, check out their new video for "Cascade" below.
Another band that has been brought to my attention recently is, The Body Rampant. I was sent their music video for "Sativa." They recently released their new album, Transient Years on April 5th. I'm not sure who they remind me of yet (which is a good thing), but they have that same Moving Mountains feel to them. I guess for the time being we will go with Armor for Sleep meets a melodic Taking Back Sunday. Check out their very interesting video below.
A'tris song of the week
As usual, I will remain faithful to my buddy Mason of A'tris and update you all on the song of the week project. Can you believe they are up to week 21 already? Keep up the good work boys! Check out 20 and 21 below.
Playdough Releases New video
Don't worry my hip-hop heads, I have something for you too! Check out Playdough's new video for "Ya Heard" featuring Mr. Dibbs vs. the Black Keys. Read my interview and review of his album here.
Jon Santos of Fallzone Releases a Teaser
My favorite producer, Jon Santos of 1176 Studios, gave us a little promo of what's going to be on the new Fallzone album with a backyard BBQ rendition of "Dance with Me." Give it a listen below.
Oh yeah, and this too
New Episode of Hollywood Girl
Speaking of Jon Santos, have you seen the show he works on, Hollywood Girl? Congratulations are in order because Hollywood Girl will soon be featured on a local channel out in California. Courtney Zito, keep up the good work! Watch the new episode below.
Process of Fusion
Last but certainly not least in my heart, check out my band in the Aquarian Weekly (click that). Special shout out to Dave Incognito for the hook up. Also, for anyone wondering on the status of the new album, it's almost here. It is completely finished, we are just in the process of creating artwork and getting some background stuff taken care of. Listen here for the first two singles.
Also, check out a side project of mine with singer/songwriter Matt Beck, called Cross Town Rivals. Listen to our first single "Fool Me Twice" here.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Effects of Illegal Downloading on the Music Industry with Interviews
The final project I worked on in my group was on the long-term affects of music piracy on the music industry, labels, and artists. Looking at the trends of music from 2000 to 2011, we wanted to capture the general feeling and decline of music sales since online servers like Napster and Pirate Bay. We set out to see if people were downloading illegally more than they were purchasing. To no surprise, the answers, surveys, and studies we did all pointed to people illegally downloading with seemingly no conscience about it. Why do we need anything else if it is in front of our fingertips in seconds and it's free? This is why a multi-million dollar band like Metallica has to sue Napster for copyright infringement.
I conducted three short interviews with three people covering different plains of the music industry. The three professionals interviewed are: Scott Vollweiler-owner of Broken Records Magazine, Mason Taylor-singer/songwriter and front man of indie rock band A’tris with expertise on social networking and music marketing, and Jon Santos-formerly signed by Wind Up Records in the early 2000’s with then band, Sevenwiser. I asked them all the same seven basic questions, and though biased because of their position within music, they gave great answers. The questions were:
I conducted three short interviews with three people covering different plains of the music industry. The three professionals interviewed are: Scott Vollweiler-owner of Broken Records Magazine, Mason Taylor-singer/songwriter and front man of indie rock band A’tris with expertise on social networking and music marketing, and Jon Santos-formerly signed by Wind Up Records in the early 2000’s with then band, Sevenwiser. I asked them all the same seven basic questions, and though biased because of their position within music, they gave great answers. The questions were:
1. What are your general feelings about music piracy?
2. Do you think it hurts or helps the artists?
3. Ultimately is piracy more of a problem for labels or artists?
4. What are ways artists can use piracy to their advantage if any?
5. Do you think it can be stopped? Should it be stopped?
6. Do/would you yourself download music illegally?
7. Do you think having something like iTunes deters people from downloading music?
His views on music piracy, as expected are strictly against it saying, “Music piracy is wrong. I know the music business is crooked, but bands that are trying to make it are losing their opportunity.” He explains that piracy can only hurt musicians and labels because newer bands will not receive the same support as major ones. He feels that although there are possibilities of piracy helping, it is unlikely saying, “A billion dollar corporation can easily go broke. Look at EMI, they've been bought twice.”
Vollweiler goes on to say that piracy will never be totally gone because “There’s always loopholes on the net.” He then admits he himself has illegally downloaded music in the past, but stopped once he started the company. He was able to understand the struggle of an artist a lot better. Lastly, he doesn’t feel iTunes deters people away from illegally downloading but instead provides a “happy alternative.”
Mason Taylor, the lead singer of A’tris is not in a signed band, so while his views on piracy tend to agree with Vollweiler’s, he finds a hope in it. When asked what his general feelings on piracy are, he said “It would be nice if people paid for music.” Interestingly enough, Taylor feels that while piracy hurts the artist, he also feels it greatly helps as well. He doesn’t doubt piracy negatively impacts the whole industry, but thinks there are ways for musicians to capitalize on it. “I don't believe that encouraging piracy is beneficial to artists. Promotions involving free or discounted digital components are a better solution in my mind as they can be structured advantageously for fans and bands. For example, an artist may offer a free download in exchange for a fan's e-mail address,” he said.
Sure enough, this is exactly like something A’tris is doing. Every Tuesday A’tris records a new song and releases an accompanying video for it on Youtube. Youtube is of course a free service, but A’tris also offers the instrumental track for free download if you join the mailing list. In the mailing list A’tris suggests listeners to take the solo track and record their own versions or covers of the song. Also in the email, they encourage the listener to check out and purchase some merchandise. At the end of the 52-week period of songs, A’tris will take the top viewed videos they released, and create an album off of those. This is a way to get fans involved with the creation of an their favorites band’s recording process. It’s a good way to entice an audience to give you a chance. They feel involved and want to invest in you.
As far as sites like iTunes and Amazon, Taylor had a lot to say,
“…Convenience is king. I believe that, if people are empowered to legally consume music when they want, the way they want, we will see piracy continue to decline. Already e-retailers like iTunes provide a frictionless solution for purchasing music. With Amazon and Google offering cloud locker services, and Apple rumored to debut a similarly but potentially more feature-rich option, I hope that we will see piracy further reduced by choice.
On a side note, I believe it's interesting to note that Amazon and Google currently offer their services without label support. Apple is reportedly the only company that is moving into the cloud space at this time with signed agreements from the four majors. Choice is key. If people have more options, they may choose to exercise them.”
Taylor seems to be on the verge of something great, and really understands the concept of being an independent artist. A’tris will have no problems in continuing on with the growth of their music.
Jon Santos is a former touring and signed lead singer of once popular band Sevenwiser off Wind Up Records. Santos has heard his music played on The Punisher Soundtrack and in the movie Cursed. In addition to this his music has been featured in video games MVP 2004 I and Nascar 2005. He currently works as a producer/engineer and videographer/photographer in his Whitestone, Queens studio, 1176 Studios. At the moment he is filming a short show series on Youtube that has just been picked up by a small cable network, Hollywood Girl. Clearly Jon is no stranger to the music industry and media in general. More so than my other two interviews, he’s been there and done that. He perhaps had the strongest and almost angriest type of reactions to the questions.
His general feelings about music piracy are bluntly honest as he says, “ I’m really not a big fan of that. I don’t understand how people can feel good about themselves when they steal someone’s work. It’s the same thing as walking in to Best Buy and just taking the CD right off the shelf and walking out the door, is that right?”
Like Taylor, Santos feels that piracy is two fold as far as helping or hurting, “If a new upcoming band gets themselves out there a bit more by letting their music out for free and they pick up a few hundred or more fans then great for them. The problem at that point is you can’t track your sales and numbers and you can’t build much of an income to float the band.” Santos also believes that piracy has mainly killed the label, which in turn destroys the artist. Now instead of making money on music, the label takes a big chunk of what a band makes on touring and events, let alone having to split the money with your band mates. “Not unless you are Lady Gaga or any of them other big time artists that are making 90 million a year from sales and have crazy live shows, [are you making money]…good luck with that,” he said.
Santos feels very strongly about stopping piracy but isn’t quite sure of exactly how saying, “How about everyone just walks around and starts stealing people’s homes, taking their cars, not paying for anything; what will be the future for any of us at that point? Can it be stopped? Not unless we stop technology and revert back about 20 years.” He doesn’t think it can be stopped in full, but thinks it can be slowed.
These three music professionals have seen music from the inside and out and obviously know where the trends of music are going. The future is certainly not clear, but it has become increasingly difficult for an artist to make any money on their craft. Santos told me the most money he has made in music is through his placement in movies and games. I remember meeting Taylor and asking him what he thought the keys to getting your music heard was, he said “placement.” All of the ideas are the same, but none of the direction is clear. In the long run, music for sure is in a down place just like the rest of our economy. It’s up to the future of music to try and turn it around like A’tris is trying so hard to do. To quote Clay Shirky, “Nothing will work, but everything might.”
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Creator of Warped Tour, Kevin Lyman tries his hand at Country
| Kevin Lyman creator of some of Rock Music's biggest tours, is now running the Country Throwdown Tour |
Kevin Lyman's claim to fame is the now legendary Van's Warped Tour. Building on that success, he went on to help create Taste of Chaos, Mayhem Festival, Coachella, and now in its second year, Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour. Although these tours are all memorable for different reasons, Lyman states Warped Tour as his favorite saying, "Warped was the first thing I ever did. Punk rock in L.A. will always hold a special place in my heart."
Lyman is now taking his experiences of the road and knowledge of successful tours and applying that formula to country. "It's a new age of country and these artists all put a great show out. I want it to be more than a music festival, but a life experience, something more," he said.
One of the major keys to Lyman's tour success have been the sponsors, "It wouldn't work, especially the ticket prices. We have no control of that. Thanks to sponsors and funding, we are able to manage," Lyman said. Warped Tour had originally just been the music with no corporate sponsors. Sneaker giant Van's, jumped on board the following year, and helped make Warped Tour what it is today.
On coming up with the idea of Country Throwdown, Lyman states it was just a matter of needing change. "I was at Down from the Mountain nine years ago doing production, and as I was looking at the audience, I noticed we needed more diversity." Lyman then took a trip to Nashville to become engrained in the music.
The main headliner of this year's Throwdown is country legend, Willie Nelson. "Having someone like Willie makes this is a big deal. It was like having NOFX and Pennywise on our second year. We were legitimate," said Lyman. The final stop of the tour is Texas, for Willie's Picnic. Lyman says, "It's a big thing in Texas, historic and a great atmosphere. You know, end with a bang." As a matter of fact, Lyman knows a thing or two about picnics, "On the first day of Throwdown, the country boys showed me how to BBQ a pig, some good old hog cooking," he said with a laugh.
"No Doubt, Sublime, Papa Roach, My Chemical Romance, Blink 182, and even Katy Perry," are some artists that Lyman says have blown up on these tours. Asking Lyman what he looks for in a potential touring band he says, "Bands have to be patient, write good songs, and get a big local following."
What's sure to be a long and busy summer for Lyman and crew, with the simultaneous touring of Warped and Throwdown, there really isn't much to be said. When asked about any future tours in the works, he simply said with a chuckle, "We have 96 shows this summer, it's a little crazy."
For more info on Warped or Country Throwdown visit- http://vanswarpedtour.com/ and http://www.countrythrowdown.com/
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Incognito and DePalma, A'tris Video of the Week, Eric Sosa, and POF
This Friday at the Cup Complex in Jersey, is Romulus X Records recording artist, Incognito Theory's show along with the Debut of other Romulus X Records recording artist Incognito & DePalma featuring Peal. Incognito & DePalma just put there cd out, so will be on hand.
They also released their official lineup, adding- Daniel R Eng on Bass, Ralph Ricciardi on Drums, Andrew J. Prussack (Producer).
I.D. was also mentioned in the Aquarian Weekly, here
Buy the album here
Incognito & DePalma now have an official website!
http://www.incognitodepalma.com/
A'TRIS SONG OF THE WEEK 17-19
ERIC SOSA
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