Thinking back, I was rather young when the Pumpkins released this album (10 yrs old to be exact) but the second single from the album, "Today", caught my attention immediately. I quickly threw away my Ace of Base and proceeded to fall into a now 15 year love affair with the Smashing Pumpkins. My family didn't have cable at the time so my only exposure to new music was the old fashioned way, a run of the mill home stereo. (Explains the Ace of Base) I even went as far as to record my favorite songs onto cassette so I could listen to them whenever I felt like it.
Siamese Dream featured some of the best songwriting we've seen from Billy Corgon to date, even better than what the Pumpkins would later release on the dubious, blown load of a 3rd album (with the exception of a few songs) Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. Loaded with some of alternative rock's best riffs, Siamese Dream wasn't without it's complications. Drummer Jimmy Chamberlin was at the height of his heroin addiction, guitarist James Iha and bassist D'arcy Wretzky had recently ended their relationship and Corgan was in the midst of a suicidal depression. All the ingredients for an album full of loud, angsty rock music.
There is a certain feeling this album will always give me. It's a timeless record that helped set the tone of alternative rock in the 90's. Granted, the Pumpkins weren't the only ones at the time mixing grunge with 70's and 80's style guitar rock but Siamese Dream was and is definitely a benchmark album for many bands at that time and still today. Sadly, that doesn't happen to include the latest Smashing Pumpkins album which is something we will all just have to learn to excuse.
Though I don't always remember to recognize them as one of the more influential bands for me, they are definitely one of the bands that shaped most of my early teen years and nothing can replace that nostalgic feeling I get every time I hear a Smashing Pumpkins song come on the radio. However, nowadays it's more likely to come on my iPod instead.
Check out this rather humorous video from Smashing Pumpkins.com regarding the 15th anniversary of the album. Enjoy!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Concert Junkie gets Dark Knight Dorky
**Warning there are some plot spoilers, so if you haven't already seen the movie then you might not want to read this!**
Hello. My name is Lori. I am a woman in my (gasp) late twenties and I grew up reading comic books long before they were all sold to the big screen. Phew. O.K. I got that off my chest. "And there was much rejoicing, yay."
When I first heard and saw the previews for the Dark Knight, I felt something genuine was bound to come from it. Besides the cast being phenomenal, I left the theater wondering, for the first time, can we see a super hero movie be nominated for more than special/visual effects Oscar? Anything is possible.
As some of you might not know(mainly the other avid lady readers), the Dark Knight is based on the comic book mini series: The Dark Knight Returns, which was written and drawn by the awesome Frank Miller (Sin City, Watchmen, 300). Most people think of Batman, the superhero character from the old TV series with Adam West or from the Tim Burton movies starring Michael Keaton(the others were crap!) In the more nowadays sense, the character of Batman is more of a grim caped crusader. Though Burton did touch upon that; however, I think Batman Begins and Dark Knight are proving to be fresh reiterations of the once famed DC Comic figure from the 30s.
First off, the talented Christian Bale makes a strikingly, sexy Batman versus West or Keaton. Bale's ability from being the lavish businessman Bruce Wayne and the mysterious Batman show the duality of this complex character. All Superman did was put glasses on and he was Clark Kent. Batman in movie, comic book and cartoon mini- series form had Wayne negotiating with evil doers and in the next scene fighting them as Batman. Bale makes the clear distinction between the two, particularly in his voice.
The late great Heath Ledger lends a brilliant performance of the Joker. This was the role many comic fan-boys/girls were wondering if he would actually pull it off. I think he did more than that. His performance was a step above Jack Nicholson's. Don't get me wrong, Nicholson's performance was pretty classic. However, Nicholson appealed more to the Joker's quarky, silly side, Ledger appealed more to the psychotic, sinister vilan. Ledger, in any movie he was in, even in 10-Things I Hate About You, always lent charm and charisma. Too bad his career was shortened, but I think this movie, along with his role in Brokeback Mountain, will make him legendary.
Dark Knight focuses upon one of my favorite heroes/villans, Harvey Dent/Two Face played by Aaron Eckhart, the actor with the cutest smile. In the movie, he's dating Batman's girl Rachel Dawes, a character not in the comic book, performed by the talented Maggie Gyllenhaal. The Joker wants Batman and will stop at nothing, even rob the mob of men and money, to get his man. That's as much of the plot that I want to reveal. I'm sure half the world has seen it by now, but I'd rather talk about the theme.
I liked how the movie, much like the comic book, touch upon the theme of what makes a hero. Batman does somethings to show how he is an independent vigilante at times. For instance, he breaks into the Gotham City's cell phone users to track down the Joker before their final fight. I left the theater thinking about what makes a person a hero? I started to reflect about the people who I look up to, my late mom Beverly Michael and late cousin David Musikant, John Lennon, Martin Luther King, Jr., Allan Ginsberg and Hunter S. Thompson. All of them were free spirited, some even vigilante-like(mainly Thompson, "Bat country!") I dub these people my heroes because of the deeds that they did when they were alive. So I think Batman, even though at the end marks himself a not-so-much hero, but in fact he is by choosing to be the Dark Knight.
By Lori, who read comic books while helping my mom at some of the flea markets she used to run and/or sell at. My mom owned/ran her own business. On of them being collecting/selling antiques. She sold antiques, one of the many items she sold were comic books. I've read X-Men, Captain America, Flash, Iron Man, Punisher, Fantastic Four, Batman, Superman and Archie. Comic books lend for some great imagination building. I shush all of the people who are probably laughing at my dorkiness right now. :)
Hello. My name is Lori. I am a woman in my (gasp) late twenties and I grew up reading comic books long before they were all sold to the big screen. Phew. O.K. I got that off my chest. "And there was much rejoicing, yay."
When I first heard and saw the previews for the Dark Knight, I felt something genuine was bound to come from it. Besides the cast being phenomenal, I left the theater wondering, for the first time, can we see a super hero movie be nominated for more than special/visual effects Oscar? Anything is possible.
As some of you might not know(mainly the other avid lady readers), the Dark Knight is based on the comic book mini series: The Dark Knight Returns, which was written and drawn by the awesome Frank Miller (Sin City, Watchmen, 300). Most people think of Batman, the superhero character from the old TV series with Adam West or from the Tim Burton movies starring Michael Keaton(the others were crap!) In the more nowadays sense, the character of Batman is more of a grim caped crusader. Though Burton did touch upon that; however, I think Batman Begins and Dark Knight are proving to be fresh reiterations of the once famed DC Comic figure from the 30s.
First off, the talented Christian Bale makes a strikingly, sexy Batman versus West or Keaton. Bale's ability from being the lavish businessman Bruce Wayne and the mysterious Batman show the duality of this complex character. All Superman did was put glasses on and he was Clark Kent. Batman in movie, comic book and cartoon mini- series form had Wayne negotiating with evil doers and in the next scene fighting them as Batman. Bale makes the clear distinction between the two, particularly in his voice.
The late great Heath Ledger lends a brilliant performance of the Joker. This was the role many comic fan-boys/girls were wondering if he would actually pull it off. I think he did more than that. His performance was a step above Jack Nicholson's. Don't get me wrong, Nicholson's performance was pretty classic. However, Nicholson appealed more to the Joker's quarky, silly side, Ledger appealed more to the psychotic, sinister vilan. Ledger, in any movie he was in, even in 10-Things I Hate About You, always lent charm and charisma. Too bad his career was shortened, but I think this movie, along with his role in Brokeback Mountain, will make him legendary.
Dark Knight focuses upon one of my favorite heroes/villans, Harvey Dent/Two Face played by Aaron Eckhart, the actor with the cutest smile. In the movie, he's dating Batman's girl Rachel Dawes, a character not in the comic book, performed by the talented Maggie Gyllenhaal. The Joker wants Batman and will stop at nothing, even rob the mob of men and money, to get his man. That's as much of the plot that I want to reveal. I'm sure half the world has seen it by now, but I'd rather talk about the theme.
I liked how the movie, much like the comic book, touch upon the theme of what makes a hero. Batman does somethings to show how he is an independent vigilante at times. For instance, he breaks into the Gotham City's cell phone users to track down the Joker before their final fight. I left the theater thinking about what makes a person a hero? I started to reflect about the people who I look up to, my late mom Beverly Michael and late cousin David Musikant, John Lennon, Martin Luther King, Jr., Allan Ginsberg and Hunter S. Thompson. All of them were free spirited, some even vigilante-like(mainly Thompson, "Bat country!") I dub these people my heroes because of the deeds that they did when they were alive. So I think Batman, even though at the end marks himself a not-so-much hero, but in fact he is by choosing to be the Dark Knight.
By Lori, who read comic books while helping my mom at some of the flea markets she used to run and/or sell at. My mom owned/ran her own business. On of them being collecting/selling antiques. She sold antiques, one of the many items she sold were comic books. I've read X-Men, Captain America, Flash, Iron Man, Punisher, Fantastic Four, Batman, Superman and Archie. Comic books lend for some great imagination building. I shush all of the people who are probably laughing at my dorkiness right now. :)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
MUST BUY, No Lie: Rick Springfield
Victoria’s going to give Jessie a run for her money on July 29.
“Jessie’s Girl” is no doubt Rick Springfield’s biggest hit, but when “What’s Victoria’s Secret?,” off his upcoming album, VENUS IN OVERDRIVE, hits the airwaves Springfield should be seeing his name returning to the top of the charts.
The song is so catchy; it would be a hit even without his name on it. The same can be said for most of the album. The clever wordplay on “I’ll Miss That Somebody” makes this another ideal radio track. And of course, no disk would be titled after a crappy song.“Venus is Overdrive” showcases the edgier, arena rock Rick, similar to “3 Warning Shots.” “She” kicks off with the chorus and stays strong. From beginning to end, VENUS IN OVERDRIVE is an addictive listen.
Now, I’m aware that Planet Verge blog readers are probably split down the middle when to comes to Rick Springfield awareness. The half that’s in their late-twenties (gasp, I’m well past my mid-twenties) are still rocking out to “Jessie’s Girl,” on their ipods, like my co-workers and frequently do. The more Warped Tour interested bunch of you are probably weary of what I wrote above. But here’s the thing: Don’t we all love great power pop rock? Someone’s got to pick up where Bon Jovi left their coolness (and talent for good pop rock songwriting- sad as I am to say) years ago. Let it be Rick Springfield.
RICK SPRINGFIELD PERFORMING "WHO KILLED ROCK N ROLL" ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Fans were lucky enough to see Springfield return to General Hospital as Dr. Noah Drake (the role he originated 25 years ago) a few months ago as rock star Eli Love. The character (and singer) performed on the air for a LIFEbeat concert. It showed that Springfield still rocks after all these years and I no doubt, plan on being in the audience next time he hits NJ/NYC.
And here’s where things get even more fun. LIFEbeat, like Planet Verge, is a sponsor of The Independent Music Awards this year. And I suppose as publicist for the IMAs, now is a good time to announce that RICK SPRINGFIELD WILL BE JOINING THE IMA JUDGING PANEL THIS YEAR!
* By Joelle, who has grown up watching General Hospital like it’s her religion and shares her love of Rick Springfield with PV’s Cait (who fronts Spoons for Adam & is influenced by Springfield).
LISTEN NOW: www.myspace.com/officialrickspringfield
“Jessie’s Girl” is no doubt Rick Springfield’s biggest hit, but when “What’s Victoria’s Secret?,” off his upcoming album, VENUS IN OVERDRIVE, hits the airwaves Springfield should be seeing his name returning to the top of the charts.
The song is so catchy; it would be a hit even without his name on it. The same can be said for most of the album. The clever wordplay on “I’ll Miss That Somebody” makes this another ideal radio track. And of course, no disk would be titled after a crappy song.“Venus is Overdrive” showcases the edgier, arena rock Rick, similar to “3 Warning Shots.” “She” kicks off with the chorus and stays strong. From beginning to end, VENUS IN OVERDRIVE is an addictive listen.
Now, I’m aware that Planet Verge blog readers are probably split down the middle when to comes to Rick Springfield awareness. The half that’s in their late-twenties (gasp, I’m well past my mid-twenties) are still rocking out to “Jessie’s Girl,” on their ipods, like my co-workers and frequently do. The more Warped Tour interested bunch of you are probably weary of what I wrote above. But here’s the thing: Don’t we all love great power pop rock? Someone’s got to pick up where Bon Jovi left their coolness (and talent for good pop rock songwriting- sad as I am to say) years ago. Let it be Rick Springfield.
RICK SPRINGFIELD PERFORMING "WHO KILLED ROCK N ROLL" ON GENERAL HOSPITAL
Fans were lucky enough to see Springfield return to General Hospital as Dr. Noah Drake (the role he originated 25 years ago) a few months ago as rock star Eli Love. The character (and singer) performed on the air for a LIFEbeat concert. It showed that Springfield still rocks after all these years and I no doubt, plan on being in the audience next time he hits NJ/NYC.
And here’s where things get even more fun. LIFEbeat, like Planet Verge, is a sponsor of The Independent Music Awards this year. And I suppose as publicist for the IMAs, now is a good time to announce that RICK SPRINGFIELD WILL BE JOINING THE IMA JUDGING PANEL THIS YEAR!
* By Joelle, who has grown up watching General Hospital like it’s her religion and shares her love of Rick Springfield with PV’s Cait (who fronts Spoons for Adam & is influenced by Springfield).
LISTEN NOW: www.myspace.com/officialrickspringfield
SHOWPOPR?!
If you haven't already become a 'showpopr' you better get yourself savvy. Showpopr.com is a site for us music folk to get online and share stories, reviews, bands, etc... It is a tremedously fast growing community that I have recently become a member of and have already spent hours reading up and exploring the different features the site offers.
Keep an eye out for Planet Verge reviews and news to be popping up!
CHECK IT OUT!!
www.showpopr.com
**By Amanda whose showpopr name is amandatums
Keep an eye out for Planet Verge reviews and news to be popping up!
CHECK IT OUT!!
www.showpopr.com
**By Amanda whose showpopr name is amandatums
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Independent Music Awards SUBMISSION Spotlight # 3
We're spotlighting bands that enter The 8th Annual Independent Music Awards.
Enter now: www.indpendentmusicawards.com
Deadline to reach 15 Million NEw Fans and Industry is August 1st!
* By Joelle, who has listened to 100 IMA song entries so far and still has a LONG way to go!
H.R. King
http://www.sonicbids.com/HRKing
Britney Spears fans will fall for this New South Wales, Australia-based singer. He probably heats up the dance floor over there with the track "Glamour Baby."
RANDOM NINJAS
http://www.myspace.com/randomninjasmusic
Holy moly this is crazy awesome! I need this EP. Finally a band that stands out from the pack! "Vicious Cycle" is innovative and exciting.
Sonicbids says:
Random Ninjas is a Los Angeles, California based heavy rock/fusion band whose sound utilizes the usual western rock instruments like guitars, bass, and drums with a combination of diverse languages, traditional Asiatic instruments, and RANDOM humor.
Founded in 2004 by their guitarist, Full Metal Ninja, this group is a neo-cultural expression of a global lifestyle, and their diverse fan base is dedicated and growing. A single song can encompass pop, jazz, punk, world, and metal making it not genre-less but genre-full. Lyrically random as well, their songs range from joy to angst, love to politics, and road rage to world peace. Their music aims to entertain, but it also carries with its truly multigenre sound a serious message of randomness. Being random both defines and liberates them, and these Ninjas are delivering to a new generation of listeners who are craving for something new and RANDOM!
MIDORI
www.myspace.com/midorilongo
SONICBIDS SAYS: Midori fronts a high-energy Bay Area rock band (AUDIOCLIQUE) wih soulfully potent lead vocals, burning lead guitar, panaramic keyboards, and ground pounding bass and drums. Recently, Midori was featured in the Showcase at slicethepie.com, where she finished 3rd out of 1000 bands and was the top US band.
WE LIKE HER VOICE. "Close Your Eyes" really captures the listener. Good job, girl!
LUNAR THEORY
http://www.lunartheory.ca
Sonicbids says:
A blend of "fragile vocals" mixed with edgy guitars, industrial effects, cinematic string sections, and ghostly pianos make this project stand out like nothing else.
We say: Creepy cool music from Canada.
THE GOOD LUCK JOES
Sonicbids Says:
...the perfect mix of pop, rock, folk and garage into one highly delectable musical cocktail, the sound is smooth and satisfying...the melodies feel instantly familiar while the vibe shimmers like the best of warm summer days. Thoughtful lyrics make this a no-brainer.
We say: I think these guys are past IMA finalists. No surprise. "My Little Thief" is a cute tune.
PEEL
www.peeltheband.com
This Oslo, Norway-based act says they "produce remarkably inventive guitar based rock/pop music." Panic At The Disco simply said upon hearing the band for the first time «Låter jävligt bra om er !¡¡!» (You sound fucking great!¡¡!).
They remind me of HIM a bit. I dig.
Enter now: www.indpendentmusicawards.com
Deadline to reach 15 Million NEw Fans and Industry is August 1st!
* By Joelle, who has listened to 100 IMA song entries so far and still has a LONG way to go!
H.R. King
http://www.sonicbids.com/HRKing
Britney Spears fans will fall for this New South Wales, Australia-based singer. He probably heats up the dance floor over there with the track "Glamour Baby."
RANDOM NINJAS
http://www.myspace.com/randomninjasmusic
Holy moly this is crazy awesome! I need this EP. Finally a band that stands out from the pack! "Vicious Cycle" is innovative and exciting.
Sonicbids says:
Random Ninjas is a Los Angeles, California based heavy rock/fusion band whose sound utilizes the usual western rock instruments like guitars, bass, and drums with a combination of diverse languages, traditional Asiatic instruments, and RANDOM humor.
Founded in 2004 by their guitarist, Full Metal Ninja, this group is a neo-cultural expression of a global lifestyle, and their diverse fan base is dedicated and growing. A single song can encompass pop, jazz, punk, world, and metal making it not genre-less but genre-full. Lyrically random as well, their songs range from joy to angst, love to politics, and road rage to world peace. Their music aims to entertain, but it also carries with its truly multigenre sound a serious message of randomness. Being random both defines and liberates them, and these Ninjas are delivering to a new generation of listeners who are craving for something new and RANDOM!
MIDORI
www.myspace.com/midorilongo
SONICBIDS SAYS: Midori fronts a high-energy Bay Area rock band (AUDIOCLIQUE) wih soulfully potent lead vocals, burning lead guitar, panaramic keyboards, and ground pounding bass and drums. Recently, Midori was featured in the Showcase at slicethepie.com, where she finished 3rd out of 1000 bands and was the top US band.
WE LIKE HER VOICE. "Close Your Eyes" really captures the listener. Good job, girl!
LUNAR THEORY
http://www.lunartheory.ca
Sonicbids says:
A blend of "fragile vocals" mixed with edgy guitars, industrial effects, cinematic string sections, and ghostly pianos make this project stand out like nothing else.
We say: Creepy cool music from Canada.
THE GOOD LUCK JOES
Sonicbids Says:
...the perfect mix of pop, rock, folk and garage into one highly delectable musical cocktail, the sound is smooth and satisfying...the melodies feel instantly familiar while the vibe shimmers like the best of warm summer days. Thoughtful lyrics make this a no-brainer.
We say: I think these guys are past IMA finalists. No surprise. "My Little Thief" is a cute tune.
PEEL
www.peeltheband.com
This Oslo, Norway-based act says they "produce remarkably inventive guitar based rock/pop music." Panic At The Disco simply said upon hearing the band for the first time «Låter jävligt bra om er !¡¡!» (You sound fucking great!¡¡!).
They remind me of HIM a bit. I dig.
Independent Music Awards Submission Spotlight # 2
These artists entered the 8th Independent Music Awards and are worth checking out!
To enter your band and reach 15 Million New Fans: www.independentmusicawards.com
* By Joelle, publicist for the IMAs
THE APPLE BROS
http://www.theapplebros.com
These brothers from New York make music for old souls with young hearts.
Veterans of the long standing NYC rock scene, the brother's first band Hot Water(signed to Sire Records by Seymour Stein in the late 90s) released "Hot Water Music." Recording with some rock & blues greats as Benmont Tench (Tom Petty) & Sonny Landreth they learnd to craft emotional yet powerful songs.
They've supported such acts as Cheap Trick, Noel Redding, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The Flying Nuetrinos, Junior Brown, Spacehog and Question Marc. The brothers usually make their yearly pilgrimage to NOLA for Jazzfest but are taking this year off to record their third album.
DAVEY LA
http://www.myspace.com/daveylaonline
SONICBIDS SAYS...Classic pop group fronted by the enigmatic and eccentric Brit Davey La. Timeless, these are the songs of a generation. An antidote to the uniformed and formulaic bands that arrive by the truckload and disappear before the ink has dried on their sleevenotes...
WE SAY-- Pretty good! Who can resist a Brit?
JERAD FINCK
http://www.myspace.com/jeradfinckmusic
I wish he could take a press photo without his guitar because it would be a lot less cheesy. He was apparently a VH1 Song of the Year finalist in 2005. Nothing memorable here, but nothing awful either. He can sing and harmonize, he just needs songs that really jump out at you.
BEFORE BALANCE
http://www.sonicbids.com/BeforeBalance
From the opening note, I knew this was gonna be good. Then I read that the man behind the name is Jeremy Borer, with whom I am very familiar. Jeremy used to work at Roadrunner years ago, so it's interesting to hear that his music is the total opposite. I like "Can I go home." Perhaps you've already heard this music on The Hills.
FAT CITY REPRISE
http://myspace.com/fatcityreprise
These guys are fun. They've had local radio success in Philly and toured with The Roots, Fall Out Boy, Seal, the Flaming Lips, Travis Barker, Corrine Bailey Rae, Gym Class Heroes, Alice Smith, De La Soul, the Spin Doctors, Sister Hazel, MC Lyte and Doug E. Fresh, Paolo Nutini, and Hanson. I like the singers raspy voice. Just wish it was a little less funk and more rock.
WILLIAM LOVELAND
http://www.sonicbids.com/WilliamLoveland
Don't laugh. Before I heard the voice, I expected a soulful black man to be singing. But wow, it's a dorky white guy. I'm really into vintage pop right now so I like this song. He'd make a good wedding singer. Really.
THE PARLOTONES
www.myspace.com/theparlotones
I've been following this band for a while. Can't wait for them to take on America! I Love them. You will, too. The Parlotones is the biggest selling rock band in South Africa. Their last 2 albums have acheived gold and platinum respectively.
TWO HOURS TRAFFIC
http://www.twohourstraffic.com
I'm so glad I was able to discover this band! The Prince Edward Island Canadian's are my kinda pop rock. "Heroes of the Sidewalk" such a cute tune. And "Jezebel" reminds me of the Beach Boys. Perfect summer music right here. Their Sonicbids says "we love nick lowe and teenage fanclub and big star and the buzzcocks. we are from prince edward island and we play unabashed pop. drum machines be damned ("blasphemy!" yells the american apparel set). salut!. Gotta love it.
THE TREWS
http://www.thetrewsmusic.com
This Nova Scotia act must be inspired by Chris Cornell. They've got arena rock down. Sonicbids says: As “One of the hottest live bands in Canada”, The Trews are no strangers to the stage. Having performed 500+ shows over the past 3.5 years with such bands as Guns N’ Roses, Nickelback, Robert Plant and Rolling Stones.
ZuDritt
http://www.zudritt.com
I wish I knew what this German band was signing because they have great melody and style. Can anyone translate?
AURALIS
http://www.MySpace.com/AuralisBand
These two classically trained pianists from Ohio say they're inspired by Coldplay, Nine Inch Nails, TOOL and Keane. But there's a fine line behind inspired and ripping off when it comes to TOOL. Maynard's vocal style is unique and when someone else tries to apply it to their own music, it's just not right. But the casual music fan won't care about that. So it may actually get them somewhere. In other songs, the vocals are very smooth. I'd go with that.
THE WAR
http://www.thewarmusic.com
Why does every band nowadays feel they need to have a suspender-wearing member? I've seen too many press photos with them today, and this band just happens to get the brunt of it. Sorry. This Nashville act is rather impressive. They must have attended hook college because they know that Pop songs need a strong chorus. So many artists who entered this category of the IMAs don't have that! They have been sonically compared to Coldplay, The Fray, Keane, and Switchfoot. Tours have included stints with ...Teddy Geiger.
MR.DANGER
http://www.myspace.com/mrdangertheband
It's the Spanish Ozzy! Well, this Barcelona act claims to be an inverted and disjointed funk that is often reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age or the Foo Fighters." But I hear Ozzy in the vocals.
To enter your band and reach 15 Million New Fans: www.independentmusicawards.com
* By Joelle, publicist for the IMAs
THE APPLE BROS
http://www.theapplebros.com
These brothers from New York make music for old souls with young hearts.
Veterans of the long standing NYC rock scene, the brother's first band Hot Water(signed to Sire Records by Seymour Stein in the late 90s) released "Hot Water Music." Recording with some rock & blues greats as Benmont Tench (Tom Petty) & Sonny Landreth they learnd to craft emotional yet powerful songs.
They've supported such acts as Cheap Trick, Noel Redding, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, The Flying Nuetrinos, Junior Brown, Spacehog and Question Marc. The brothers usually make their yearly pilgrimage to NOLA for Jazzfest but are taking this year off to record their third album.
DAVEY LA
http://www.myspace.com/daveylaonline
SONICBIDS SAYS...Classic pop group fronted by the enigmatic and eccentric Brit Davey La. Timeless, these are the songs of a generation. An antidote to the uniformed and formulaic bands that arrive by the truckload and disappear before the ink has dried on their sleevenotes...
WE SAY-- Pretty good! Who can resist a Brit?
JERAD FINCK
http://www.myspace.com/jeradfinckmusic
I wish he could take a press photo without his guitar because it would be a lot less cheesy. He was apparently a VH1 Song of the Year finalist in 2005. Nothing memorable here, but nothing awful either. He can sing and harmonize, he just needs songs that really jump out at you.
BEFORE BALANCE
http://www.sonicbids.com/BeforeBalance
From the opening note, I knew this was gonna be good. Then I read that the man behind the name is Jeremy Borer, with whom I am very familiar. Jeremy used to work at Roadrunner years ago, so it's interesting to hear that his music is the total opposite. I like "Can I go home." Perhaps you've already heard this music on The Hills.
FAT CITY REPRISE
http://myspace.com/fatcityreprise
These guys are fun. They've had local radio success in Philly and toured with The Roots, Fall Out Boy, Seal, the Flaming Lips, Travis Barker, Corrine Bailey Rae, Gym Class Heroes, Alice Smith, De La Soul, the Spin Doctors, Sister Hazel, MC Lyte and Doug E. Fresh, Paolo Nutini, and Hanson. I like the singers raspy voice. Just wish it was a little less funk and more rock.
WILLIAM LOVELAND
http://www.sonicbids.com/WilliamLoveland
Don't laugh. Before I heard the voice, I expected a soulful black man to be singing. But wow, it's a dorky white guy. I'm really into vintage pop right now so I like this song. He'd make a good wedding singer. Really.
THE PARLOTONES
www.myspace.com/theparlotones
I've been following this band for a while. Can't wait for them to take on America! I Love them. You will, too. The Parlotones is the biggest selling rock band in South Africa. Their last 2 albums have acheived gold and platinum respectively.
TWO HOURS TRAFFIC
http://www.twohourstraffic.com
I'm so glad I was able to discover this band! The Prince Edward Island Canadian's are my kinda pop rock. "Heroes of the Sidewalk" such a cute tune. And "Jezebel" reminds me of the Beach Boys. Perfect summer music right here. Their Sonicbids says "we love nick lowe and teenage fanclub and big star and the buzzcocks. we are from prince edward island and we play unabashed pop. drum machines be damned ("blasphemy!" yells the american apparel set). salut!. Gotta love it.
THE TREWS
http://www.thetrewsmusic.com
This Nova Scotia act must be inspired by Chris Cornell. They've got arena rock down. Sonicbids says: As “One of the hottest live bands in Canada”, The Trews are no strangers to the stage. Having performed 500+ shows over the past 3.5 years with such bands as Guns N’ Roses, Nickelback, Robert Plant and Rolling Stones.
ZuDritt
http://www.zudritt.com
I wish I knew what this German band was signing because they have great melody and style. Can anyone translate?
AURALIS
http://www.MySpace.com/AuralisBand
These two classically trained pianists from Ohio say they're inspired by Coldplay, Nine Inch Nails, TOOL and Keane. But there's a fine line behind inspired and ripping off when it comes to TOOL. Maynard's vocal style is unique and when someone else tries to apply it to their own music, it's just not right. But the casual music fan won't care about that. So it may actually get them somewhere. In other songs, the vocals are very smooth. I'd go with that.
THE WAR
http://www.thewarmusic.com
Why does every band nowadays feel they need to have a suspender-wearing member? I've seen too many press photos with them today, and this band just happens to get the brunt of it. Sorry. This Nashville act is rather impressive. They must have attended hook college because they know that Pop songs need a strong chorus. So many artists who entered this category of the IMAs don't have that! They have been sonically compared to Coldplay, The Fray, Keane, and Switchfoot. Tours have included stints with ...Teddy Geiger.
MR.DANGER
http://www.myspace.com/mrdangertheband
It's the Spanish Ozzy! Well, this Barcelona act claims to be an inverted and disjointed funk that is often reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age or the Foo Fighters." But I hear Ozzy in the vocals.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
What's Happening on July 22nd?
Oh yes, the wait is almost over! On July 22nd Equal Vision's rookie band, Sky Eats Airplane, will be releasing their much anticipated self-entitled debut full length album.
The band has been touring and promoting endlessly, their hard work is beginning to shine vibrantly as many of the recent dates of their co-headlining tour with A Skylit Drive have been sold out. Sky Eats Airplane is emerging as one of the bands to be reckoned with this year.
The SEA boys recently filmed the video for their first single "Numbers," and even after having to deal with an angry fire marshal, cops, location change, and a myriad of other road blocks the band and director made the shoot happen...and let me tell you, the video is going to kick ass. Keep a weather eye out for it to drop later on this summer.
THE ALBUM DROPS JULY 22nd, BUY IT!
** By Amanda who saw Sky Eats Airplane last night at the School of Rock.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Concert Junkie: Finally Reviews Plant/Krauss at the Greek in LA
I realize it has been a while since I've posted on here, and I do have a reason. I've been traveling. One of the cities I recently ventured to was Los Angeles. This was my third time on the west coast and second time in the City of Angels. Why was this time different than last time? Well, my brother has never been to CA, so my friend and I decided why not show him some good, fun sites, such as Griffith Observatory, the Pacific Coast Highway(PCH), Santa Monica mountains along the PCH, Hollywood, Mt. WILSON, Manhattan Beach, and Back to the Future and E.T. sites. Of course, other than playing tour guide, I fulfilled my role as the ultimate Concert Junkie by going to the Robert Plant and Alison Krauss concert at the picturesque Greek Theater.
I am sad to report that cameras were strictly prohibited the night of the show. I didn't see a single flash go off, but then again, I'm sure more people were recording video clips than snapping photos. Plus, cell phone cameras suck. They can't capture certain moments too well. So I hope my descriptions lend as an aid to your imagination.
The Greek Theater is nestled in the wood land of Griffith Park, which is in the same area as Griffith Observatory. The theater itself has won awards and it has won the #1 Small Outdoor Venue in the country from Pollster Magazine five times in the past six years. When you sit in your seat at the Greek, you are not only facing the stage, but your eyes are also focused on some of the most beautiful mountains in the city.
Sharon Little was the opening act. Four months before the show, she was working as a waitress in Philadelphia. Now she is the opening act for one of the most legendary collaborations. Little's voice is heavenly mix of Norah Jones meets Aretha Franklin, the song "Follow that Sound" is proof. Before she dove into her song "Try," I thought it was going to be a Joplin cover. However, her whole set was 100% originals that Little and her fellow band mate Scot Sax wrote together. Little won the hearts and minds of every audience member that night with some standing ovations. Give a listen to her album Perfect Time for a Breakdown, here's a little sample:
The sun set behind the mountains before Krauss and Plant came out. The two have been wowing crowds from coast to coast, festival to festival with their sheer musical energy together. I cannot think of another great collaboration as this where Blue Grass meets Rock. The most stardom in the main spotlight Blue Grass has seen is with the O' Brother Where Art Thou Soundtrack, which was produced by T. Bone Burnett who was also one of the key ingredients to this stellar mix. Besides the duo doing tunes from their award winning album Raising Sand, I knew they were going to be doing some of their own works, so I could not wait to wait to hear them tackle the Led Zeppelin tunes in their repertoire.
The set opened with Track one, "Rich Woman," which then led into "Leave my Woman alone," and the Zeppelin tune "Black Dog." With Krauss as his angelic anchor and Burnett as his six string strummer, Plant does not go into the Zeppelin style of the song, but more along the lines of if "Black Dog" was written for a blues or jazz band. Other Zeppelin highlights was "Black Country Woman" with Jimmy Page solos put to banjo and fiddle. Plus, the anticipated "Battle of Evermore." Why was "Battle of Evermore" more anticipated? Its because Zeppelin never did it in concert. It was one of those songs in their sets that was never at the forefront of their minds. To actually have a Zeppelin member perform it with an amazing soulful woman was beyond a dream to hear.
Some other highlights of their set was when Krauss sang center stage acapella to "Down to the River and Pray" with the gentlemen backing her up. Burnett also stepped forward and did some of his own songs. If you are wondering who Burnett is, he has been around as long as Bob Dylan and just as fantastic if not more.
The evening started to wind down with "Please Read the Letter" and "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)." But they greeted the crowd with three encores, "You Don't Knock," "One-Woman Man," and "Your Long Journey." To mine and my company's disappointment, there was no mini Zeppelin reunion. D'oh! Maybe there will be one on their next tour, since Plant and Krauss are going to work on a second album, due to the worldwide success of this one. I eagerly wait next endeavor with Plant and Krauss.
By Lori: who saw Plant one other time before I went to Korea in '05. His show was so moving I cried. Though this show beyond moving, it was riveting. I urge everyone to buy or download Raising Sand and Perfect Time for a Breakdown.
I am sad to report that cameras were strictly prohibited the night of the show. I didn't see a single flash go off, but then again, I'm sure more people were recording video clips than snapping photos. Plus, cell phone cameras suck. They can't capture certain moments too well. So I hope my descriptions lend as an aid to your imagination.
The Greek Theater is nestled in the wood land of Griffith Park, which is in the same area as Griffith Observatory. The theater itself has won awards and it has won the #1 Small Outdoor Venue in the country from Pollster Magazine five times in the past six years. When you sit in your seat at the Greek, you are not only facing the stage, but your eyes are also focused on some of the most beautiful mountains in the city.
Sharon Little was the opening act. Four months before the show, she was working as a waitress in Philadelphia. Now she is the opening act for one of the most legendary collaborations. Little's voice is heavenly mix of Norah Jones meets Aretha Franklin, the song "Follow that Sound" is proof. Before she dove into her song "Try," I thought it was going to be a Joplin cover. However, her whole set was 100% originals that Little and her fellow band mate Scot Sax wrote together. Little won the hearts and minds of every audience member that night with some standing ovations. Give a listen to her album Perfect Time for a Breakdown, here's a little sample:
The sun set behind the mountains before Krauss and Plant came out. The two have been wowing crowds from coast to coast, festival to festival with their sheer musical energy together. I cannot think of another great collaboration as this where Blue Grass meets Rock. The most stardom in the main spotlight Blue Grass has seen is with the O' Brother Where Art Thou Soundtrack, which was produced by T. Bone Burnett who was also one of the key ingredients to this stellar mix. Besides the duo doing tunes from their award winning album Raising Sand, I knew they were going to be doing some of their own works, so I could not wait to wait to hear them tackle the Led Zeppelin tunes in their repertoire.
The set opened with Track one, "Rich Woman," which then led into "Leave my Woman alone," and the Zeppelin tune "Black Dog." With Krauss as his angelic anchor and Burnett as his six string strummer, Plant does not go into the Zeppelin style of the song, but more along the lines of if "Black Dog" was written for a blues or jazz band. Other Zeppelin highlights was "Black Country Woman" with Jimmy Page solos put to banjo and fiddle. Plus, the anticipated "Battle of Evermore." Why was "Battle of Evermore" more anticipated? Its because Zeppelin never did it in concert. It was one of those songs in their sets that was never at the forefront of their minds. To actually have a Zeppelin member perform it with an amazing soulful woman was beyond a dream to hear.
Some other highlights of their set was when Krauss sang center stage acapella to "Down to the River and Pray" with the gentlemen backing her up. Burnett also stepped forward and did some of his own songs. If you are wondering who Burnett is, he has been around as long as Bob Dylan and just as fantastic if not more.
The evening started to wind down with "Please Read the Letter" and "Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved On)." But they greeted the crowd with three encores, "You Don't Knock," "One-Woman Man," and "Your Long Journey." To mine and my company's disappointment, there was no mini Zeppelin reunion. D'oh! Maybe there will be one on their next tour, since Plant and Krauss are going to work on a second album, due to the worldwide success of this one. I eagerly wait next endeavor with Plant and Krauss.
By Lori: who saw Plant one other time before I went to Korea in '05. His show was so moving I cried. Though this show beyond moving, it was riveting. I urge everyone to buy or download Raising Sand and Perfect Time for a Breakdown.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Independent Music Awards SUBMISSION Spotlight
As the publicist for The Independent Music Awards, I am one of the privileged who gets to listen (and sometimes suffers through, no lie) every single entry that is submitted before we send the top songs off to our industry and artist judging panel. (By the way, Butch Walker, Daryl Palumbo, Brian Littrell, Billy & Jennifer from Suicide City and a slew of other awesome talents are lending their ears to the IMAs this year). I'm going to higlight some of the bands I discover along the way. Here we go.......
* By Joelle, who has thousands more songs to listen to by September. Stay tuned.
ATTN. ARTISTS: Reach 15 Million New Fans and Industry and win a year of promotion to print, broadcast and online media. Enter now: www.independentmusicawards.com
BOOBIE TRAP
This female-fronted OC band reminded me of Halo Friendlies (RIP) at first listen. Now Ginger's off Smashing Pumpkins and the other Halo girls are off doing their own thing. Play "Never There" of their myspace
LAUREN BRIANT
http://www.myspace.com/laurenbriant
She's clearly inspired by Christina Aguilera, but who said that was a bad thing? Or maybe she's on her way to being the young, white, coke-free Whitney Houston. Either way, this lady's got a powerful set of lungs. Let's hope she doesn't cheese out. This Dallas-dame is currently writing and recording her debut. So keep a tab on her.
DOCILE
http://www.myspace.com/docile
While their sound is anything but, Docile are a very radio ready rock act. I tend to hold that against bands at times, but I'm really digging the song "The Coming." It was nominated for "Best Alternative Rock Song" at the 2007 OIMA (Ontario Independent Music Awards). Go Canada.
Noush Skaugen
Awarded ALTERNATIVE POP ARTIST OF THE YEAR & NATIONAL EP OF THE YEAR 2007, this UK Act, has "rocketed through the alternative circuit building name recognition - and critical acclaim". Skaugen's voice has been described as a Sheryl Crow meets Joni Mitchell. 'Lost and Found' drops June 2008.
LOST AND FOUND Skaugen's debut full-length album, was released June 14 2008.
A % of proceeds is going towards Breast Cancer Research, in the hopes we find a cure.
Her campaign is Love your Boobs.
www.myspace.com/noushskaugen
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