Often you find the humanitarianism comes after the profit. Humans, by nature, ensure their own happiness before that of others...
It is a rarity that you find a clothing company that is embarking on the production journey with the primary goal being the humanitarianism. To make the world a better place to have to do your part, and I have been fortunate enough to meet a super cool clothing company that is truly doing their part to make this world we live in a more peaceful, clean place.
I attended the recent NYC date of the VS. Tour featuring Scary Kids Scaring Kids, Haste the Day, Drop Dead, Gorgeous, and Gwen Stacy and being a creature of habit at shows, I always head over to the merch area and see if there’s anything new. One of the tours biggest sponsors is a clothing company based out of San Diego, California called Jedidiah. The first thing you notice about their collection is the uniquely modern and artistic designs. The artistry has a very organic feel, and the incredible passion behind each work of art gracing the shirts displayed is awe-inspiring. The unique nature of each design gives a one-of-a kind feel. On tour you can find the Hope Collection available for sale...incredibly rocker. With each sale a portion of the profit goes directly to help an organization such as Invisible Children, World Vision, The Glue Network, Surfrider, and more. You can also get the official tour tee that will also generate proceeds to help such causes.
Jedidiah sent representative Nick Greenwood and the talented photographer Jonathan Foster on the road with Scary Kids and Haste the Day to help spread the message and generate a supportive following. The guys have been producing video blogs and slide shows showing off the tour. You best go check 'em out.
It was recently announced that the boy band who began it all (for our age group at least) is reuniting!!!!
A source tells People Magazine that New Kids on the Block will make the announcement in the next few weeks.
The singing/dancing sensational heartthrobs (Jordan & Jonathan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, Joey McIntyre, Danny Wood) were a worldwide phenomenon and sold over 50 million albums during the height of their careers.
Dude, I'll be there. I don't care if it doesn't make sense or if they're just doing it for the money. They rocked my world. But I will say that they can't do it without Donnie. And would he really risk his acclaimed acting career for one last hurray as a boy-bander?
*by joelle, whose first concert ever was New Kids on the Block at Nassau Colosseum in New York when she was in 3rd grade. Her favorite? Jordan. Did she buy his solo albums? Indeed.
Everyone (even Rolling Stone) seems to be raving about The Wildbirds and the greatness of the band's music these days.
NEWSFLASH: The Wildbirds are Number One Fan re-incarnated. Why isn't anyone talking about that? Because then it would just make them like every other band trying to sound like Kings of Leon. Funny how bands nowadays are growing their hair really long, trading in the too-tight jeans and jumping on the band wagon.
Number One Fan
The Wildbirds
Frankly, I find The Wildbirds tunes pretty boring. Good, but boring. I wish these Wisconsin natives fought the good fight and kept chugging along with their Pop songs. They were great. I still listen to the Number One Fan debut CD and sing along. But, I prob won't ever give The Wildbirds another listen. Of course, that's bound to happen with any band facing an identity crisis, and I'm sure most hardcore fans cross over.
Here are some blurbs from an announcement on NOF's MySpace page (note how you'll never hear a mention on NOF on The Wildbirds page).
"But as many of you know, when you start a band when you're 15 years old, you're not going to love it forever."
(Agreed. From a marketing standpoint, I under stand of why they might want to totally drop the past. However, it just seems like they are a bit ashamed of it, when really, they should be standing proud.)
"Our last shows were with Green Day, playing in front of 18,000 people......you'd think that would be the pinnacle of excitement for us. It turns out, if you don't love what you're doing, it doesn't matter how many people are in front of you. We went back to the basement and to the north woods of wisconsin to dig deep, we took all of the pressures off and just played as we wished.
Unfortunately for some of you, the results were staggeringly different. The music moved us to the ends of the earth, but was came out didnt resemble NOF in the slightest. We knew then that it was the end of Number One Fan, and the beginning of something else.
Jon, Matthew & myself have started something that is the love of our life, The Wildbirds. (Michael was with us until recently), and our newest darling Hugh has just joined us."
Just felt like I had to share that. These are great guys. We had a birthday party with them, Val Emmich & Punk Rock Mom in the basement of Maxwells a few years ago. They had cool belt buckles.
Best of luck to them and here's so tunes you may enjoy: www.myspace.com/numberonefanmusic www.myspace.com/thewildbirds
*joelle, who just ate peanut butter and jelly for lunch.
By Lori: who first fell in love with the Mars Volta back in '03 at the All Tomorrow's Parties (ATP) Festival in Long Beach, CA where they performed on the same bill as Iggy and the Stooges.
Anticipation. That was the overall feeling I had as I was trekking to my third Mars Volta show this one at Terminal 5 in New York City. This is the only band I have ever traveled the country to see from California to Rhode Island. The crowd wrapped around 56th street before the doors were worthy to open. Shuffling into the converted warehouse and dubbing a spot on the balcony as our, “Standing Zone,” we were ready for the octet.
No opening band was required as the Mars Volta shredded into “Roulette Dares” from the first LP, De-Loused in the Comatorium. With Omar Rodriguez-Lopez on guitar and Cedric Bixlar-Zavala on vocals, not since the legendary Page and Plant has there been such a stellar duo. Rodriguez-Lopez’s authentic guitar sounds mix well with Bixlar-Zavala's falsetto.
The rest of the two and half hour set consisted of mostly new songs from their upcoming fourth album The Bedlam in Goliath, which is due out on Jan. 29. Bixlar-Zavala dedicated “Drunkship of Lanterns" to the fans. With eight musicians on stage, it was exhilarating to see Bixlar-Zavala take Roger Doltrey’s antics to the next level by jumping on and off amps/speakers, climbing walls, and walking into the sold-out crowd.
Current drummer Thomas Pridgen unleashed a worldly solo. Synthesizers, Latin beats, and saxophones were other ingredients added to these already vivacious tunes. The Mars Volta sell-out shows, but yet don’t expect mainstream radio to fulfill your request unless it’s for “The Widow”-from Frances the Mute, and do not expect to hear that song in concert.
In a time where Emo lines the airwaves and everyone wants to be an American Idol, the Mars Volta stand above the mainstream and can rip their souls apart. My advice, listen to some Mars Volta and Progressive rock, you will feel so much better in the morning.
By Joelle, who became addicted to Eighteen Visions when they toured with Lostprophets.
If anyone is going to help reclaim respectable rock, kick undeserving bands like Nickelback off the throne and teach all the unaware mainstream radio fans that a world of rock so good it’ll spread even if it didn’t have a huge marketing plan behind it does infact exist, James Hart is the man for the job.
We already know from his years of fronting hardcore act Eighteen Visions that Hart commands the stage like the stage kings of yesterday. He’s mastered the mood and the attitude, and the songs on his upcoming solo-effort epitomize the rock for which I’ve been yearning: teetering at the edge of “just hard enough” and edgy but with a cheese-free melody.
Let’s face it, most “rock stars” today are a bit of a disappointment. Luckily, James Hart is around to pick up where everyone fell off track.
As hard as it hit when the news of 18V ending was announced (read the Planet Verge tribute to the band: http://www.planetverge.com/pv07/interviews/18Visions.asp), I’m kinda glad because it allowed for these super sexy, power-fueled monstrous songs to be developed.
Here, Hart fills in his fans on his deal with Island Records and all that there is to anticpate.
PV: I like the style of the new songs. Have you had the urge to go solo for a while?
Hart: I'm glad you are liking the new material. You know, going solo was never something I had thought about. Eighteen Visions was coming to an end. I could feel that the band was finished. When the band officially broke up in March, I had gone over several options with my manager about what the next step would be. He knew I still wanted to make music and tour. We talked about finding one or two other guys to write with and actually start a band, but these would be people that I would have no prior relationsip with. It would've been just jumping into a band blindfolded. He also brought up the idea of shopping me as a solo artist. I found this more reasonable. It could be my thing. My ideas. My goals. All of this without the worry of conflicting ideas with other members. So this is the route I chose and here I am.
PV: What has been your inspiration while writing these songs?
Hart: I have always been a rock guy. Musically it has a very classic and blues style rock sound. It has a real vibe to it. Which is something I think today's rock lacks a lot of. Vibe. So we took these classic guitar tones and went with it. Put a little modern edge and touch to make it feel new.
Lyrically I've been inspired by real life events. Over the past few years or even the weeks leading up to me writing the first song for this album months back. I love the story telling of Bon Jovi and U2. Or even a lot of the country stuff out there. The songs paint a picture. They give great visuals. That's what I wanted to do. Tell stories about my life and the people I knew. The events that took place in my life and in theirs. Everything is completely relatable which is what I love most about it.
PV: You signed to a new label pretty fast. Why did you decide to go with Island this time around?
Hart: This has all been so crazy for me. Just to think that eight months ago I was fronting a band that was on a different major label. Now that's gone and I'm here on my own. It all started with my manager. He has a couple of other bands at Island and has a solid relationship with the LA Reid and the rest of the staff over there. The label signed me to a demo deal to go write a few songs and turn them in. When I handed over the songs there was immediate excitement and they offered me a record deal.
PV: When is the album slated for release? Do you have a title yet?
Hart: No album title yet. I will tour and release albums under my name. James Hart.
PV: Do you feel like all eyes are on you now—nervous about how 18 Visions fans will respond to it?
Hart: No. I really don't. This is something completely different than what Eighteen Visions was doing. You will not hear any similarities aside from the style of the vocals. Even then...my songs are now in standard tuning where 18V was in a really low drop tuning. The new tuning has changed everything for me. Where my voice sits, extended range and even more power behind my voice. I know they are great songs and they will speak for themselves. Since it is so different, I don't expect anything from anyone that was an 18V fan. I hope that 18V fans will dig it. If not...that's ok. You can't win em all (unless you're the New England Patriots).
PV: What’s it like being able to write songs without having to worry about input from another band member?
Hart: Amazing!!! You know there were two sides of the coin when it came to writing with Eighteen Visions. The upside was that we were all bringing something different to the table. We individually had different tastes and when we would colaborate it would make for fresh ideas and great songs. It was eclectic.
Unfortunately the plus side was sometimes the down side. It was because we were all so different with our musical tastes that lead to disputes about songs and direction. Compromising great ideas for another's personal taste. It seemed like it was really hard to get on the same page when it came to writing and recording. I feel like everyone in 18V felt that way. I think we were always happy with the end product at the end of the day, but at times I felt like there was this Jekyll and Hyde effect. The back and forth. Sometimes it was hard to grasp our true identity since we had been through so much over the last 10 years.
I don't have to deal with that struggle anymore. I know who I am musically. I know what I want and where I want to go. i really don't have worry about being on the same page with anyone else. I don't have to compromise great songs or ideas for another memeber that might not like where I was going with the song. This is way easier now. Stress free.
PV: Are you writing all the parts—drums, etc?
Hart: I have had 100% input on everything. I am not a guitar player or a drummer, but I was able to write a little on guitar. Putting chords together. Writing some of the leads. Structure and arrangements. Putting together the beats. Stuff like that, but these songs were all co-writes. To me, the idea of a solo album isn't to play every instrument on the album or write every last note. It is me colaboriting with great song writers and musicians to make a great album that represents me and who I am. Maybe if I were Prince, I would've played everything and not let anyone lend ideas or co-write, but I checked my ego at the door and went about this the same way I would've with 18V. The only different was writing with Zac Maloy instead of Keith Barney and Ken Floyd. Oh, and having the say in what the song sounded like. From tempo to even tambourine and everything in between.
PV: Will you be touring in promotion for the album? If so, are you going to just have touring musicians back you or are you going to assemble a full-time band?
Hart: Absolutely. That is why I am doing this. I love making music and being on stage. Sharing the live experience with people. I'm not just trying to release and sell albums just to satisfy my artistic nature. Isn't a let down when you get a great album, love the songs, feel the music, but the artist doesn't tour. I certainly think so.
As for the players, I will hire a touring band. I already have Dr. Neal Tiemann slated to play lead guitar. He is an amazing talent. I will also fill the rythym, bass and drum positions as well with musicians I feel are hard working with great spirit and attitude as well as talented at their respective instrument. It may be a full-time band that tours with me from album to album. It would be the type of band you would see backing Chris Cornell or something.
PV: What was it like working with Zac Maloy and creating an album in Oklahoma?
Hart: It was such a great and refreshing expecience. Zac is a great writer with amazing ideas and understanding for music. This was so different for me. In a good way. We would both just sit with acoustic guitars and build a song from the ground up. Bouncing ideas off each other. Back and forth. Finishing each others lyrical lines and vocal melodies. It was great. It was nice to get away from home. You know, clear my head. I wouldn't have it any other way.
PV: What did you do in your downtime over there? It’s a world away from LA in terms of lifestyle, I’d imagine.
Hart: I'm not into the quick pace of LA. Orange County is fast too, but I keep to myself. I don't go out a lot. I like my private time. So it was a lot of the same over there. I didn't have a ton of free time either. We were always working. I always made time for football on Saturdays and Sundays. I would always make time to go watch Dr. Neal play at the local pubs. I spent a lot of time with Neal. He is an amazing person with a winning attitude. Not to mention a great player and writer. I met a lot of cool people through Neal. Zac's family was great too. Tulsa is my home away from home now.
PV: What songs did Keith work on with you? Do any other 18V members make guest appearances?
Hart: Before 18V broke up we were writing and demoing new material. I loved a couple of the ballads he had. The rockers were great too, but they were a little too 18V for me. The rest of his stuff ended up on the Never Enough album I believe. There was this melodic ballad type song he had that I wrote to called "Fallin Faster." I took it to Tulsa and we tuned up the guitars and Neal played a very cool lead over the chorus making it a little edgier. It came out great. Keith doesn't play on the album, but his creative spirit is there with the song. None of the other members appear on the album or have any songs on the album.
PV: Highlights of working with Syn Gates?
Hart: Gates was awesome. All of the Avenged guys are very good friends. I came to him and Shadows right when the band broke up. They were neck deep in their own album, but Gates whipped up a little music bed for me. I took that one to Tulsa as well and just ran with it. He even took time in between gigs in LA to come up and play on the track he co-wrote with me. He will also make an appearance on "Dirty Little Girl." Those guys are all winners in my book. Just real, genuine people that care about me and what I'm doing.
PV: How did you feel when you stepped off stage after playing the very last 18V show?
Hart: Relieved. Not to say that in a bad way, but the band had been broken up for over a month. I was already moving forward. As were some of the other guys. There was just so much stress involved over the last few months the band was together. Clashing of ideas. The fallout with Epic. Canceled shows and tours. Turning down good show opportunities. It was just really nice to play the shows and show our respects to the fans and move forward with life. We did the shows for the fans. It wasn't something I really wanted to do at first. I'm not a big fan of farewells and reunions unless there are albums being made to back up the tours.
PV: Best album of 2007?
Hart: Avenged Sevenfold S/T. Not being biased either. It's brilliant. That band takes chances and wins. I also love Velvet Revolver "Libertad." I think it's even better than "Contraband." The new Bon Jovi is great and Carrie Underwood has some great songs too. Not kidding.
Listen now: www.myspace.com/jameshart
WATCH PLANET VERGE FOOTAGE OF 18 VISIONS ON WARPED TOUR:
Amoungst the 'unknown errors' and code I am swamped in this evening whilst I get some websites underway I can't stop listening to 2 bands. Idiot pilot who I'm sure plenty of you know but also Jamie T.
I don't really know how to sell Jamie T to people. He's catagorized as 'Rap, regae, punk' So if any or all of these genres are your kind of thing then clicky click and have a wee neb, oh and he name drops my birth name in one of his songs and considering it's quite a rare name, that's kind of cool! He just makes me want to put my Ipod on and talk a long stroll around Camden town.
Late night post, not much substance to it, but just a couple recommendations for you,
Back to the code. Urgh, such a geek.
<3 gina xo
Jamie T www.myspace.com/jamietwimbledon Idiot pilot http://www.myspace.com/idiotpilot
I'm gonna throw you all for a loop right now and tell you how much I really dig this indie HIP-HOP band called Animate Objects.
The Chicago-based group's tune, "El Dorado," just won the Independent Music Award for Best Hip-Hop song. The category was judged by Mr. Snoop Dogg himself, so that's a pretty prestigious honor. And before that, Animate Objects ranked Number 2 on the Billboard Adds chart, earning airplay on 100+ stations.
The thing I like about Animate Objects is that the group's music is intellectual, catchy and has a positive purpose. The opening track on their debut album, "Ridding in Fast Cars with your Mama," sets the record straight. These guys are not here to entertain you with the commonly heard Hip-Hop hype of bling, broads, etc. Honestly, if they did, I wouldn't be writing about them.
The layered concoction of Hip-Hop, Soul, R&B, Funk and Jazz Animate Objects mixes up really appeals to me. Like 311 is the grand blenders of the Rock world, I'd say Animate Objects is on it's way to having the same cult following in the urban market.
Now, I'm not going to get all technical on this review because I honestly don't know anything about this genre and I'd just seem dumb. I saw Jurassic 5 in concert once and the last Hip-Hop CD I got was Pete Miser like four years ago. Before that, I played Salt 'N Peppa, Tevin Campbell and SWV in 7th grade. So I'm just gonna say I like this band and you should all check them out! So then maybe then bass player Prashant can drop out of law school. ;) And it's a nice fresh, new way to start off 2008!
* By Joelle, who has been reliving her past by digging out her old Brit-Pop CDs and playing Robbie Williams, Boyzone (ok, they're Irish), 5 (you know "When the Lights Go Out!") and Natalie Imbruglia a whole lot.
I love travelling, even if it’s just from my flat to the shops, I love it. Any time I can switch some music on and have a good old think to myself I love, so as I write you this little UK instalment it’s coming to you direct from the Forth road bridge, enveloped in the misty countryside of Scotland whilst retreating to my small cosy city flat. I have been sitting thinking about everything that has happened in the last month or so, and even though I may not have done too much apart from study, I’ve really figured out a lot of things.
Firstly I will say my farewells to Spitalfield from this side of the world. Rolling into Glasgow on a freezing December evening I caught their last Scottish performance. Opening for them however were my ‘tip for 2008’, Tellison which was an altogether bonus on my part. On their last tour, Tellison (WWW.MYSPACE.COM/TELLISON) played to crowds of no more than a handful of people but you wouldn’t think that this evening. The most instruments, voices and strange noises you can include in one song make this one of the most interesting and joyful acts to rise form the UK for a while and with people knowing the words….I think the hype is beginning to spread. Anyway, back to the matter in hand, Spitalfield. Churning out their best from the past ten years you could see the passion still in them and the faces of the (what should have been more) dedicated fans. These guys still managed to make people half way around the world lose their minds to their music for 90 minutes and it amazes me. If I can ever make someone like what I do that much, even one person, I can’t even put into words how happy that would make me. So as the farewell speeches and thank you sentiments were announced, I couldn’t have clapped harder. These bands who put their music before anything and everything in their lives mean every thank you they give to people and that really hit home at this show in particular. And to top it off, to still play a show with as much energy as your first ten years down the line, that deserves the biggest respect. Thanks Spitalfield.
I think this people appreciating what you do business ties in nicely to the inward argument I have been having with myself for months. Education. Do you need education to succeed? That question seems dumb because obviously you don’t but does having all these qualifications make someone a better more reliable person at their chosen subject? I’m in the middle of deciding about carrying on studying or going it on my own to really do what I want and I’m not sure what to do? Considering I like to surround myself with self made people who, instead of going to college for four years have built up their own companies and lives from scratch there is a heavy influence to go it alone. Has anyone had this dilemma before? Can they help me? I have a plan but I do not know if I am brave enough to go for it or stay on the safe ground of education. Hell, Maybe I’ll do some research and contact some people for a chat and make a PV article about it because I don’t think I have been the only one in this situation. If you have any advice or a story (band members, leaving college to do music, that decision, company owners, anything!) please email me and I can put something together!
Just passed the sign for Edinburgh so thankfully for any poor soul reading I really do have to wrap this up. So! BANDS TO LISTEN TO (based on my Itunes shuffle from this journey!)
Explosions in the sky – What do you go home to? The Stranglers six – Back to the start Anthony Green – Meet me on Montauk Nine black Alps – future wife Cauterize (who never made it to the UK RIP!) – Love in the attic
Love Gina! xo PS – THANK YOU FOR THE RETURN OR PRISON BREAK AMERICA, FOR THIS I LOVE YOU!
As I entered the infamous The Stage on Broadway in downtown Nashville, TN, I couldn't help but immediately notice loud music, weak vocals, and an oversized crowd. Was it the beer that attracted the crowd, or was it the faux-hawked, tight jeans wearing singer on stage? I quickly learned many members of the audience were there to see the "talent".
Lewis Copeland moved to Nashville from smalltown Ohio with big city dreams. The story is common here in Music City, but in merely 2 years Copeland was able to book a regular gig twice a week at The Stage. At first listen, it may be shocking that Copeland plays any shows in Music City, but at first look, you know exactly why he's on that stage.
Copeland was made to perform. He works the crowd, shakes his booty for the girls, and cheers a beer with the guys. The audience is drawn to his charisma, boyish good looks, and southern charm. All this combined has made for a Lewis Copeland craze that is quickly catching on...he even came out with his own 2008 calendar.
Copeland's performance is high-energy, but his lack of vocal abilities may be pleasing to a drunk crowd, but I'm certain a sober audience could "boo" him right off the stage. Yet, I can't help but admit any time he makes eye contact with me I melt. He has something that draws people to him, particularly the female population. Girls grab at EVERYTHING while he's on stage, and Copeland loves every minute of it. I must also give his band credit, they are all talented musicians. Specifically, Copeland's lead guitarist, Les Richardson, is a talented vocalist and should be heard more often.
To sum up the Lewis Copeland show: weak vocals, excellent entertainment. If Tim McGraw can make it, Lewis Copeland can as well.
Lewis Copeland performs live every Thursday and Saturday night at The Stage. For more information on Lewis Copeland, visit: www.lewiscopeland.com
Featuring- A Day to Remember, June, The Sleeping, and BAYSIDE!
Victory Records brought out their biggest names for the 2007 Victory Records Tour. The success of this tour was inevitable...with the names they had staking the line up, they were bound for sold out shows. While each band is extremely unique in their own right, they have a common crowd, which did great things for show attendance. Their Stone Pony date was sold out! Hell Yes.
A DAY TO REMEMBER- Even though this band was the first on the bill, the sold out venue was packed well before they even hit the stage. Their total young rock vibe allowed for a complete connection and total rock out experience. They have as much fun on stage as the kids do in the crowd. One of the best segments of the night was their cover of Kelly Clarkson's "Since You've Been Gone." LOVED IT! There's nothing better than seeing a bunch of rockers totally jam out to Kelly.
JUNE- The more light hearted band of the night, they have a bit softer sound then the other acts, however they are not to be messed with- they pack a powerful punch and seemed to be one of the crowd's favorites. June has creative lyrics and extremely complementary instrumentals that create a pleasant rock aura. Before the Stone Pony show I knew little about them, but they had such a catchy sound that by the end of the night I was antsy for my lap top...I needed to MySpace 'em. June is my pick for BreakOut! band of the night.
THE SLEEPING- I'd say they they were the wake up call of the night. With their scream driven sound and high energy performance they left you no opportunity to escape their presence. They whole gig just works. The charismatic vocalist allows for his intense screaming to be chased by supportive instrumentals. Between the battling guitar and bass, its a sound experience for all your senses. An extremely alive performance by The Sleeping.
Bayside. What more can I say? These guys have paid their dues and have been around the block and back. The longevity of their popularity shines as they perform, there's no wonder as to why they have achieved as much success as they have. They bring more than music to the stage, they bring themselves and their passion to each moment they stand in front of you. It was only the second time I have seen them perform, but it left an impact. They are a presence of greatness. Bayside is certainly an awesome live act.
By Amanda who is DIGGIN' the banana chips chillin' in her cubicle....and who took all the pics.
The end of 2007 brought about the end of two great bands. Spitalfield and The Junior Varsity, both of Illinois and Victory Records, called it quits towards the latter half of the year, each after releasing their best, most mature work to date.
While that does indeed suck, and while I did indeed pout quite a bit (though that might have just been my lips looking enormous on their own), both have brought great new opportunities for members of each band.
Mark Rose, Spitalfield's frontman, is embarking on solo work. "It's gonna be more poppy, more jazzy," Rose told me at their farewell show. "I might do some touring in the spring--I'm not sure if it'll just be me acoustic, or if I'll assemble a trio or something along those lines, but it will happen."
Meanwhile, you can check out The Junior Varsity's Andy Wildrick in his new gig as a member of The Dear Hunter--who released one of the year's best albums, by the by.
To tide you over until they both tour later on in this bright, shiny new year, here are some mediocre-quality videos from Spitalfield's Curtain Call at the School of Rock last month. It was the first time I realized my digital camera had a video recording function, so please bear with the lack of videographic skill--I am but a humble beginner, just like 2008.
"I Loved the Way She Said 'L.A.'" (full song):
"In the Same Lifetime" (encore--full band portion/end):
*By Jessica, who resolved to stop procrastinating last night, but probably won't actually start for another week or so.
Urban Bombshells Readies a New Wave of Energy for the Internet and Teams up with Planet Verge’s Music Writers.
SEATTLE, WA -- Launching on the first of the New Year, Urban Bombshells brings the ideals of Internet communities and classic pin-up photography together, integrated in a stylish, vibrant, sexy, tasteful and potent way.
Urban Bombshells encompasses all that is beautiful and stylish in the modern female, with edge, attitude and a disregard for corporate bullshit. With UB’s lovely naked bombshells and a love for all things rebellion, music and fashion, the site is the antithesis to anything of a similar nature. A diverse selection of models, and no limitations set upon them, are proudly featured, along with an interactive community based around classic pin-up photography with modern appeal, personal blogs, video, forums, music news, and much more. Don't except anything less.
Going live in 2008, www.urbanbombshells.com integrates a new vision for Internet culture. Injecting a newfound urgency, the girls of Urban Bombshells have developed a vibrant and diverse variation of glamour and grace in photography. While redefining the perception of beauty, they are breaking every misconception on their own terms. Empowering each other, while building an online community that caters to a wide audience; holding an Interest for all ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations.
All of UB’s models have personal profiles that display their own interest and location, alongside personal blogs and a link to their MySpace pages. With both photo sets and video, each member has the opportunity to get to know each model on an intimate and personal level. There are no inhibitions. Also included are forums where members can communicate with the models, and discuss everything from hobbies to politics. The all-female staff behind the acclaimed indie music site, Planet Verge, provides entertainment news, concert dates, album reviews, articles, interviews, videos, music, and more. The fashion section displays the current clothing lines and concepts that are altering independent culture and inspiring new trends. Members can also browse both photo and videos from UB’s monthly parties (featuring live music performances) and get information on upcoming events, including Urban Bombshell appearances, burlesque performances, and tours. Urban Bombshells is a brand that will undoubtedly be seen as a classy fixture in modern pop culture. The website allows our models the opportunity to invite members into their own worlds. It’s an intimate environment catering to the interest of both females and males alike. Unfortunately the grace and intrigue of pin-up photography has been tarnished and forgotten overtime. We are bringing it back in a whole new way. The days of Betty Page and Marilyn Monroe; that glitz, glamour and classic presentation will all come rushing back. The age of the pin-up has inevitably come full circle in our eyes and Urban Bombshells is bringing it to the masses in a tremendous new way.
Further information and sample photography will be available upon request. The site is owned and operated by Bombshell Productions LLC, who retains all rights to trademarked and copyrighted material, including photographs, content and logos. Urban Bombshells welcomes correspondence concerning sponsorships for our events, public appearances, interviews, and product tie-ins.
Thursday night started off with a bang. Unfortunately, the bang was more of a thump when Morningwood's guitarist fell off the stage right before doors. No one is really sure exactly how it happened, but it was a show-stopper for the band as the guitarist had to be rushed to the ER. Morningwood tried to make amends with the crowd, giving away a few dozen t-shirts.
The Sounds took the stage a bit earlier and treated the audience to a sexy, spitting, new wave rock n' roll romp, more than making up for the crowd's earlier disappointment. Their energy immediately took over and, in seconds, everyone was having an undeniably amazing time.
For the first few songs we couldn't help but notice lead-singer Maja's barely-there short shorts. It's possible that my friend Sonia and I were even more intrigued by the shorts than guys at the show. Sonia commented that perhaps Maja shouldn't be rocking the shorts quite that short. At first, I agreed, but as the show went on, I realized the shorts epitomized a fuck-you-cool attitude that is so apparent when you listen and especially when you see The Sounds perform. I envied Maja for her explosiveness on stage - squatting, jumping, pulsating, dancing atop the drum set and her sexy fellow Swed band mates. Maja's absolute confidence was captivating and unequivocally sexy.
See The Sounds. 'Hot and sweaty (they) just do it, do it, do it real good and give it all to you.'
*by Jordana (who is breaking out her Sounds tunes for some cardio-kickboxing inspiration)
“Being from Europe and being able to live in the states and be working in this field with all these amazing, super talented individuals is a highlight in itself…”- Sofia Toufa
*By Joelle
Remember Athena, Aphrodite or Demeter? Didn’t think so. How about Gaea or Hera? Mmm hmm... Well, here’s the newest Greek Goddess on the block and you won’t be forgetting her name anytime soon: Sofia Toufa.
It’s no surprise that since Planet Verge first met Miss Sofi over a year ago, she has garnered herself a fan base so big that there are even MySpace pages dedicated to her.
”It’s the cutest thing,” she says of her online fans. “I feel so honored and flattered and appreciate it so much. If I can inspire anyone with what I do- that's the most amazing thing to me.”
What she does is make her dreams come true. The spunky German-born entertainer said good-bye to pop star life in her native land (where her R&B act Danacee was signed to Def Jam), bravely boarded a plane and unpacked her bags in Los Angeles.
From there, Sofi’s story continues to turn pages. The one-and-only Butch Walker (Google the name if you’re so unfortunate as to not know it) handpicked her to be one-half of his singer/dancer back-up combo during the Butch Walker and the Let’s Go Out Tonites tour. And thus, the whirlwind began.
Today, Sofi flutters around on stage nightly with Avril Lavigne. They first met during Butch’s “Beth Amphetamine” photo shoot, during which a raven-haired Avril made a guest-appearance.
Later, Avril approached Sofi after watching her on stage during a Let’s Go Out Tonite’s set, Sofi tells. “She said she was going to have auditions to put together a new band and that she'd love for me to come down and audition. I was obviously really flattered but didn't think that she'd actually call.”
Well, she did. And now Sofi collaborates with her partner-in-groove from the Let’s Go Out Tonites-Lindsey Blaufarb- and Craig Hollaman to choreograph all the routines you’ve been seeing on stage during Avril’s tour and her performances on the MTV Video Music Awards and Saturday Night Live.
“We've traveled the world this past year. I had never been to China before so that was exciting, and again there's a bunch of places I hadn’t seen in the USA.”
While on the road with Butch’s bunch, the girls were the minority on the tour bus. With things reversed this time around, the vibe is a bit different. “I hate to say it, but I do feel like girls are a bit more dramatic,” reveals Sofi, continuing, “At the same time, it's kinda nice to have females around that can relate to things that guys obviously can't!”
Things like style must-haves: skinny black jeans, scarves, bandanas, Converse and loads of accessories. This fashionista can’t live without ‘em. One look at her and it’s hardly surprising that she feels most beautiful bearing a new haircut (hot pink, anyone?) and purple eyeliner while being in shape and eating healthy. And when it comes to her wardrobe, Sofi says her philosophy is “Definitely not less is more!” She elaborates, “Classy, not trashy. And I don't like being uncomfortable and having to pull on my clothing all day long.”
With such passion for fashion, it’s only natural that she hopes to have a clothing line in the future, along with a record of her own, a movie and says Sofi, “I better stop before I sound too ridiculous! Seriously, I have endless goals, both personal and business. I just wanna be happy and continue doing what I love to do the most and hopefully help out other people reach their goals.”
While nothing else is confirmed for the immediate future, she’s quick to point out, “So far everything that has happened is not something I had planned out.” (Like also backup singing for Fall Out Boy, The Von Bondies, Rockstar Supernova with Tommy Lee, Jason Newsted and Gilby Clarke and The Academy Is). “Everything I'm doing as of now is helping me to get to that point where I'm absolutely ready for it.”
“You know, it's that time of year when you start reflecting,” she concludes on her e-mail pre-show in Minneapolis. “I really enjoy this whirlwind. I don't really wanna get out of it.”
To read more about Sofi’s background and her adventures on tour with Buch Walker, check out Planet Verge’s introductory interview with her in 2006 from our print issue 15 online now.
Drop Sofi a line and tell her how rad she is: www.myspace.com/sofiatoufa
INTERVIEW OUTTAKES:
PLANET VERGE: You said you were at Butch's (Walker) Malibu home a few hours before it burnt down. Did you witness any of the fires firsthand?
SOFIA TOUFA: No, I didn't. Me and my friend Johnny were at the house watching the dogs. I'd left the house that night to meet up with another friend. Johnny woke up in the middle of the night and managed to save the dogs and three hard drives while the back of the house was already on fire. I can't believe he got out of there! He left his car and took theirs to fit the dogs!
PLANET VERGE: What most attracts you to a guy?
SOFIA TOUFA: Personality, confidence not cockiness, great sense of humor-somewhat dorky. I'm a sucker for tattoos. The "I'm a dirty looking bad boy clean guy" that has an opinion but isn't judgmental, is worldly and passionate and creative. Know anyone?
PLANET VERGE: Best cure for a broken heart?
SOFIA TOUFA: Great friends that are gonna sit down with you over some sweet potato fries and talk shit about this guy that doesn't see how great you are and that he's missing out, Sex and the City, working out and treating yourself and a hot new date. Don't ever just sit in your room by yourself for days! That just makes it worse.
Music Resource Group, publisher of The Musician's Atlas, has announced the winners of the 7th Annual Independent Music Awards (IMA). This year, the program introduced the Music Video category and Val Emmich nabbed the award with “The Only One Lonely.”
Feeling lonely? Want someone to go on long walks with? Or just cuddle and watch TV next to? Then consider rescuing a dog or cat and give them a new home just in time for holiday pictures.
www.petfinder.com is a fantastic resource for finding animals in shelters across the USA. There's lots of beautiful mixed breeds (which I prefer-both my dogs are healthy, beautiful mixed breeds). And most of all, you'll be giving them a new leash on life.
No need to spend thousands of dollars on a purebred- it doesn't make them any better. My purebred Old English Sheepdog and Golden Retriever both got ill at only 7 years old and sadly had to be put to sleep.
I went to my town's animal shelter this Saturday, fell in love with a little girl named Hazel and went back with my fiance on Sunday to convince him we should take her home. Unfortunately, we're both super allergic to her short hair. But I really wanted to rescue her because she has an incredible survivor story.
Hazel was found on the streets bloody and with deep bite wounds. But despite everything she went through, all she wants to do is give kisses and love you.
Playing with Hazel was my first experience really interacting with a Pit Bull. You hear all the horror stories, and yes many are mean but it's because they are TRAINED to be that way by stupid people. The first thing she did was greet me with kisses (and never stopped) and a waggly tail. She never growled, tried to bite me or do anything else these poor dogs are accused of doing.
In fact, Cocker Spaniels and Chihuahuas are more aggressive by breed then Pit Bulls. Pits have the same aggression level as everyone's favorite family pet, the Golden Retriever.
With that said, meet Hazel and contact the shelter if you can take her home! She's about 8 months old and 45 pounds (but it's all muscle- she's super small)!
One of St. Francis' angels scooped this injured girl up and flew her to the animals shelter for care. With bite wounds and skinny body, Hazel (named after her angel's grandmother) has since healed and gained weight. Despite her previous ordeal, she has not let her past get to her. She is a very loving girl who longs for a sofa or bed of her own to curl up in while her human companions relax nearby. Playful, energetic, and quite a love (expect many many kisses!), Hazel is ready for her new, better life to start, so stop on by and become her new angel.
John A. Bukowski Shelter for Animals Bloomfield, NJ 973-748-0194 basanimals@yahoo.com
Hailing from Ames, Iowa - The Envy Corps has somehow skimmed under the radar here in the States, but the British seem to be quite fond of this midwest indie-rock sweetheart (and rightfully so!). With a mix of Radiohead-like vocals and Modest Mouse sounding guitar riffs, The Envy Corps struck the attention of british label - Vertigo (a spin of Mercury Records) and were quickly signed after landing an opening spot on the 2006 fall tour with The Killers. Word has it, The Envy Corps will pick up a handful of opening slots on an upcoming tour with The Editors! I have been anticipating a live performance from this band for some time and was refreshed to see them in a very intimate local venue called The Nomad last night in Minneapolis! With an inspiring mix of experience from divorce and struggles with alcoholism, lead singer Luke Pettipoole creates emotional lyrics that somehow twist into beautiful, light-hearted happiness. An Envy Corps show feels like a gigantic birthday party with claps and group yelps of excitement. In addition to guitar player, Brandon Darner - the Envy Corps consists of brothers David (bass, synth) and Scott (drums) Yoshimura. Keep your eyes peeled for their first major label album release in early 2008!
For those interested, I caught a picture of The Envy Corps set list - which included my favorite song 'Story Problem'! 'Wires and Wool' is also one you should listen to!
*by Jen Panczenko, who made her first gingerbread house this weekend!
I can't say it enough-- Silverchair's Diorama is one of the most underrated albums EVER. Practically every song on it should have been a Number 1 radio hit in America.
It appears the band feels that way, too. For perhaps the first time in musical history, a band is promoting a single that was released four years ago. While Silverchair has had smashing success with Young Modern , the band has just announced it will be releasing an iTunes exclusive EP of Diorama-hit "The Greatest View."
When the song was originally released, Planet Verge was printing our second issue. If you recall, we featured the lyric "I'm watching you watching me and I've got the greatest view from here..." on our cover.
Not to put down the songs on Young Modern, because they are phenomenal and on an artistic level very few musicians can ever get to- but I do think "The Greatest View" is better for radio, or at least digital promotions. Now that Silverchair finally have the proper marketing behind them (there was virtually no promotion of Diorama over here), this move makes sense.
Silverchair drummer, Ben Gilles, told Planet Verge that the song closest to his heart is "World Upon Your Shoulders," which is also a Diorama track.
But, he had the most fun recording during one particular Young Modern song.
"'Those Thieving Birds Part 1', 'Strange Behavior,' 'Those Thieving Birds Part 2'. Possibly the most challenging Silverchair song to date (it’s a three part song), but still lots of fun to record. Many hours of work and some tense moments, but very rewarding when you hear it back," Gilles told PV.
Here's the lowdown on the upcoming release:
SILVERCHAIR SET TO RELEASE "THE GREATEST VIEW EP" THIS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18 FEATURING "STRAIGHT LINES" REMIX BY THE PRESETS
December 14, 2007 - Silverchair will release the iTunes exclusive EP on Tuesday, December 18 entitled The Greatest View EP. The six track collection features the current single "The Greatest View" which was originally on Silverchair's 2003 release Diorama and will be stripped onto 2008 editions of Young Modern plus a remix of "Straight Lines" by The Presets, Two previously unreleased Young Modern B-Sides and two videos. Full track listing is below.
1. The Greatest View (Originally from "Diorama") 2. Straight Lines {The Presets Remix} 3. We're Not Lonely...BUT We Miss You (B-Side) 4. Barbarella (B-Side) 5. If You Keep Losing Sleep (VIDEO) 6. The Greatest View - Live From Carriageworks, Sydney (VIDEO)
Expect to see the band back in the U.S. in early 2008.
A little known fact is that Silverchair lead singer/guitar player and The Presets leader Julian Hamilton are great friends thanks to their Australian roots and similar musical interests. Julian actually co-wrote the smash hit "Straight Lines" along with three other tracks off Young Modern and has been a touring member of Silverchair when he has the time. Julian and Kim from the Presets were also touring members of the Dissociatives - Daniel's 'other band' with Paul Mac. Closing the circle, Daniel contributed guitar work for past Presets records as well as helping write some tunes with them so it's a family affair. The Presets have a new album set for early '08 release.
*by joelle, who just discussed the top 5 releases of 2007 with her co-workers. Turns out 4 out of 8 picked Young Modern among them!
A look at the world of the charismatic keyboardist for Scary Kids Scaring Kids. Meet Pouyan.
My VERY FIRST ever interview/article assigned to me was with up and coming rock band Scary Kids Scaring Kids. My first interview was with Pouyan. Needless to say, he didn't scare me off... Pouyan has a personality as unique as his name. He is creative and passionate about everything he does. His on stage shirtless antics and his intense interest in film make him unique in his field. He is funny, fun loving, and extremely proud of his band (Tyson, Steve, DJ, Chad, and James) and how far they have come. I have talked with many people throughout my life, I have to say Pouyan is one of the nicest guys I have ever talked with.
Have you ever thought that maybe this wasn’t for you, or you wanted to do something else?
I think everyone has whether they have vocalized it or not, I think everyone has kinda wanted to leave whatever they are doing and do something else especially when you have been in a band for as long as I have…the instability of the future kinda makes you want to go back to college and do something else, but we have all really come together as brothers, we are so close and we understand each other, we all really love what we do and we know each others personalities and that makes it easier to get over the small things. I am happier doing this than anything else I would be doing with my life.
When did you realize just how successful you have become?
To be honest, I think this year. We were able to put that kind of faith in ourselves to believe it ourselves. We have really started to become recognized, RCA picked us up and we were recommended to do a co-headlining tour. It’s cool because we are going to be doing co-headlining tour with a band that we really have looked up to over the years, Haste the Day. Our album is something we couldn’t be more proud of. This has been a really good year for us, and I only see it getting better.
What is the craziest thing to happen to you guys out on tour?
Actually I just thought about this… Touring internationally is probably a bad idea for us…we are a band that likes to have fun every night, and we realize when we are over there that we don’t get to be here to often so we tend to party ten times harder. Last time we were in the UK it was just a mess…there was one night specifically where it just was absolutely insane, I think we were in Scotland…yeah, it was Scotland… We were touring with a band, I think it was Candiria, and somehow or another we all got separated and DJ our bassist passed out and completely drunk in the archway of a shop and Candiria found him just passed out in the middle of the road and he would not have found his way back to the hotel. So, they lifted him up and put him into a cab and DJ didn’t remember what the name of the hotel was so they had to drive around until they found the right one. In the morning the hotel clerk told us that at 4 or 5 in the morning one of us had stumbled into the lobby and walked up to a planter and urinated all over the planter and then went up to their room. Haha… That was fun.
What is the best thing about being on tour?
Having a lot of great bands that have the same community vibe as us and they just want to make it a great time on top of having great shows. We find amazing things to do like play Uno and we develop rivalries and its just a good time.
What are your biggest influences outside of music?
Film definitely, I love movies. I love movies in the style of Eternal Sunshine and Adaptation that have many layers and a lot of depth and are imaginative.
(SIDE NOTE-Film is one of my FAVORITE things to discuss....I could have talked with him for HOURS about Eternal Sunshine)
What are your favorite songs to perform?
I think that Free Again is a lot of fun to perform; I think that it comes across better live than it does on the album; we get to add a little beef to it live. I also love playing the Deep End live.
What are you listening to these days?
I’m in GA now and I have nothing but the radio, but the most recent CD I was listening to is the latest Copeland CD. I also like The Weddings new CD. Pierce the Veil for sure, that’s in constant rotation. Oh, and the Water by Thrice. I am also listening to Jimmy Eat World, growing up in Arizona it was just all about Clarity. I could never bad mouth Jimmy Eat World. Final words?
Check out our new tour with Haste the Day. We are going to be all across the country, come out and check us out. Check out our Myspace and our new site www.scarykidssociety.com it’s kinda like a Myspace, but with more content more videos and pictures…fans can upload stuff, it’s pretty cool.
Scary Kids Scaring Kids is making their way onto IPods everywhere and they are co-headlining a tour with Haste the Day (along with Drop Dead, Gorgeous and Gwen Stacy) starting this January. With their bombastic edgy sound and their hopes high, their future is looking brighter than ever. Everyone who is reading this better check them out on the VS. Tour with Haste the Day, Drop Dead, Gorgeous, and Gwen Stacy! You will not regret it. Visit their myspace (www.myspace.com/scarykids) for dates.
Each band member is their own character and brings their own flair to the music. I have been fortunate enough to meet all the members of SK at one time or another, they are all some of the nicest guys...really. I am glad that I have had to opportunity to work with them through Planet Verge, and I hope to involve them in other projects.
By Amanda who thanks ALL of SKSK from the bottom of her heart.
Really, what is there left to say about them? They are a break out band from Boston, MA and they bring out the 12 year old girl in everyone.
I was fortunate enough to go to one of their sold out shows in NYC right before Thanksgiving. I will be completely honest, I had some seriously reservations about the whole thing. I had no idea what their live deal was going to be. While I had attended many a Warped Tour date this past summer, I was never able to catch them perform.
Starting at about 2 in the afternoon the sidewalk outside the Fillmore became the dwelling for screaming fans (most of which wearing Boys Like Girls...or All Time Low tee shirts). I will give them this, they have some of the most dedicated fans I have ever seen.
Boys Like Girls hit the stage, and it was a buffet a day early...well, a buffet of hormones that is. The band opened up with their latest hit single entitled Hero/Heroine, and right away I could feel the energy pulsing from everywhere. Song after song the energy level remained the same. Before the show I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but by the second or third song I was totally into it (kinda unexpectedly). Each song was belted back by the audience (always a good sign), crowd favorites were Thunder, Hero/Heroine, Dance Hall Drug and of course their SMASH hit The Great Escape.
They have a presence that just makes you melt. Boys Like Girls has a stage presence that is undeniable. There performance was certainly consumable for all ages and most definitely provided that "best night of my life" line for the majority of their fans. If and when they come around again, I would certainly like to see them again. They are a light hearted performance that will put a smile on music lovers face.
After reading Joelle's post on a recent emailed she received from a reader, I have to say, I am a little bummed about the accusation. Planet Verge was established by Joelle to be a music magazine and have articles written by music journalists, NOT groupies. Her vision was clear and each and everyone of us that writes for Planet Verge have the utmost respect for her and this magazine/online site that she has created.
Personally, music has been my passion since I was 4 years old. I have been playing the violin for 12 years now. A lot of friends are musicians, and I am a musician. When I approached Joelle about the opportunity to write for PV I did so because music is what i understand, it's a world that I had been surrounded by since I was very young, and I wanted to share my experiences...and my opinions. I consider it to be my job... Never would I ever consider what I do to be a mask for livin' a groupie life style. I take my writing seriously, and I take my photography seriously. I have been fortunate enough to become good friends with some of the bands I write about, that does not mean that my relationship with them is anything more than a friendship. Outside of their music world they are people, just like you. They are people I respect, just like I would respect someone I sit next to in a class.
Just for the record, the very last show I went to I wore my Berklee sweats and a So They Say hoodie....not a teeny tiny tank top and jeans that have less material than a tee shirt.
Thank you, Amanda
PS- Congrats to Paramore! Maybe the Grammy's are becoming a smidge more "hip." AND- Congratulations to As I Lay Dying for a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance!
Dude, are the Grammy Awards getting hip? What is up with our scene bands getting nominations?
"Misery Business" is Paramore's best song, but are the other Grammy-worthy? Shiny Toy Guns are great, but same thing. Is this another sign that the music industry really is in trouble? Or just that more people should read Planet Verge cause we wrote about these bands way before they hit the mainstream?
STG are a really great live band and talented in their style- but it does irritate me at times....
Both bands are nominated for their first major-label releases and quickly rose from the indie scene. I guess it's just weird.....
Here's the official release:
Paramore Get Grammy Nod For "Best New Artist" As "Riot!" Scores RIAA Gold Certification
Fueled By Ramen recording group Paramore has been nominated as "Best New Artist" at the upcoming 50th Annual Grammy Awards, it was announced this week. The news comes just as "RIOT!," the band's acclaimed second album, has received RIAA gold certification for sales exceeding 500,000 units. Released earlier this year, the album features the breakthrough hit singles, "Misery Business" and "Crushcrushcrush."
The Tennessee-based quartet has been on the road nearly nonstop since the album's June release, most recently headlining a major North American tour with 22 sold out performances. Paramore will ring in 2008 with a live performance on MTV's annual New Year's Eve extravaganza, and then head off to the United Kingdom for a hugely anticipated headline tour that includes two-night stands in such cities as Manchester, London, and Birmingham.
Paramore is set to star on the upcoming cover of Alternative Press's February issue. Last summer, lead singer Hayley Williams was among the stars featured on Alternative Press's July cover, joining a number of her fellow Vans Warped Tour '07 roadmates. Elsewhere, Revolver called "RIOT!" "a masterful mix of springy drum beats, crisp guitar hooks, and (Williams') girlish snarl," while Spin praised the album for its "arena- rocking potential."
"RIOT!" debuted at #20 on the Billboard 200 this past June, marking one of the highest sales and chart debuts in Fueled By Ramen's history (second only to Fall Out Boy). The album's first single, "Misery Business," has proven Paramore's biggest hit to date, reaching the Top 5 at Modern Rock radio, while also scoring at Top 40, Hot AC, and Active Rock. The song's accompanying video also exploded across the MTV spectrum. Having already been a #1 video at MTV2 and a #2 sensation at MTV, the clip is also a top airplay favorite at mtvU, MTV Hits, and MTV.com. In addition, "Misery Business" reached #1 most-played video status at Fuse, with further national play coming on Music Choice and The N.
"Crushcrushcrush," the follow-up single from "RIOT!," has just begun breaking out at Alternative radio nationwide. The track's video – directed by Shane Drake (who previously helmed the "Misery Business" clip) – recently debuted on MTV's TRL, and has already reached #6 on the countdown. "Crushcrushcrush" remains in Big 10 rotation at MTV, while also notching top 10 play at MTV2.
What's more, the clip is receiving further play at Fuse and The N. Both "Misery Business" and "Crushcrushcrush" can be viewed online at www.youtube.com/user/FueledByRamen, where Paramore's videos have scored over 20 million total plays thus far.
Since the release of their debut album, "ALL WE KNOW IS FALLING (Fueled By Ramen; 2005)," Paramore continues to grow its fervent fan following online with each passing day. Paramore.net, the official band website, averages 70,000 page views per day while the band's MySpace page - www.myspace.com/paramore - has logged over 17 million total plays thus far with their friends tally now exceeding 500,000. Paramore's PureVolume site - www.purevolume.com/paramore - has notched more than 4 million streams to date.
SHINY TOY GUNS RELEASE Shiny Toy Guns, the Indie Dance Rock band from Los Angles has been given the Grammy nod for it's debut CD WE ARE PILOTS. Placed in great company, Shiny Toy Guns is nominated in the Electronic Dance Category for the Best Album award. The act has been co-Published by McJames Music Inc. for over 5 years. Recent licenses include Motorola, Honda, Dirty Sexy Money, and Private Practice. The band is closing their three year tour on December 22nd at the Wiltern in Los Angeles and humbly welcomes this Grammy nomination. www.myspace.com/shinytoyguns www.mcjamesmusic.com
*joelle, who just ate the most tasty mozzarella sticks ever
I find it unfortunate that because most of the Planet Verge staff were born with two X chromosomes that we're being subjected to misogynist accusations. Has "groupie behavior" occurred? Who knows? The private lives of our staffers are just that--private. While I doubt our writers would compromise their journalistic integrity to bag a (rather subjectively) "goodlooking male musician," whatever anyone does in their romantic life is their own business.
I find it unfortunate that critics have overlooked the fact that we've actually satirized "groupie behavior" innumerable times, and most of our loyal readers can both understand and attest to this.
I find it unfortunate that glass ceilings exist, but I also find it unfortunate that they are being replaced with metaphorical Lexan in light of the sexism we've been subjected to recently. I find it unfortunate and hypocritical that we are being criticized for expanding our readership, whereas had a music magazine--which, I should note, is a soft news outlet, seeing as anything entertainment relative is soft news--run predominantly by men pledged allegiance to a pin-up girl site, no one would have given it a second thought.
I find it unfortunate that as women and that as a respected media establishment that we still have to prove ourselves to people who can't look past our racks and birthin' hips.
I do, however, find it fortunate that people care enough to talk smack about us. The opposite of love is not hate. It is indifference. So as far as I'm concerned, keep bringing on the obsession. We love you long time.
*By Jess, who welcomed this break from studying for finals.
I recently got an email from someone who accused Planet Verge of "selling out," having created the company "so girls could engage in groupie behavior behind a mask of journalism," and "slant towards male good looking musicians."
So I'd like to openly publish the letter I wrote that person back, just in case those horrid thought are floating across any other minds.
To preface, I'd like to state that I began Planet Verge because it was my dream to run my own magazine (NOT SLEEP WITH ROCK STARS-THAT WOULD DISCREDIT EVERYTHING) and write about anything I wanted. In the process, I spent THOUSANDS of dollars to make this happen. I couldn't work a full-time job because I needed the time to pretty much be a one-women show with layout, editing, etc in the first few years. I survived on menial funds from part-time jobs and now have a pretty nice debt. But I'm not complaining because I went for my dream. I made it happen and I have had the most amazing experiences.
So now as Planet Verge thrives into the digital word, and will continue to expand our readership via producing content for the soon-to-be-launched pin-up site, URBAN BOMBSHELLS, I'll leave you with this:
Dear___________:
Thanks for your opinion. I'm sorry you feel that way, but anyone who looks into our background can see that we are all established professionals who come together to promote music we like.
We have received acclaim for our efforts as a result of our hard work. Planet Verge was featured in Teen People magazine & on The Style Network's "The Look For Less. Our writers freelance for Alternative Press, Amp, Outburn and other music publications, host red carpet events in LA, do marketing for NIKE, and are journalism majors/graduates, etc.
The fact that we are an all female-staff with a fashion sense obviously will draw the groupie problem, but nobody is posting blogs that can back up your claim.
We write about bands we like and judge them based on their music, NOT their looks. You will also see we strongly support FEMALE artists- Jennifer Arroyo from Suicide City was on a past cover, as were Halo Friendlies when we first began printing. We recently features Aimee Allen on the blog and have 2 more female artist articles in the works. (PS-- we also often spotlight successful females in the industry, like Carrie Hughes, Music Supervisor at MTV).
Personally, I like pin-up girls and am proud to be involved with a company like Urban Bombshells that has a similar appreciation for beautiful women outside the Hollywood image of perfection.
I have received many fan letters from girls saying I empowered them to go into the journalism field or start their own music sites. That tells me I'm doing something right.
Stop paying attention if it bothers you so much.
*Joelle, who would like to thank Bebe Buell (ironic?) for giving her a talk about never being discouraged to be a woman in the music industry, has been Nominated for Top Journalist in Support of Live Music at the 2005 Asbury Park Music Awards. Recipient of Cambridge Who's Who Among Business Owners and Professionals 2006. See more here: http://www.audiocrushpr.com/About/About.htm
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