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.

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.

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.

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

Alkaline Trio - Agony & Irony indeed

Instead of gushing, I will simply say that the new Alkaline Trio album, Agony & Irony, their first since signing with Epic, is absolutely their best to date. Their trademark dark lyrics are contrasted by some of the catchiest choruses I've heard all year so far, and they're poised to finally take over the rock world.

With that said, some idiots on their myspace page are complaining about the new material and think the band sold out and will now be followed by 14-year-old girls.

The band did not sell out or dramatically change their sound at all. If you listen to their catalog from Goddamnit to Crimson, you'll see a natural progression and evolution that they're simply continuing on Agony & Irony.

One gal bitched via comment, "Now I have a tattoo that I'm not proud of anymore!" Boo-fucking-hoo, seriously. If you're immature enough to think so selfishly (and if your taste is as bad as this broad's), you probably shouldn't even consider getting inked in the first place.

It's agonizing and ironic that some kids who love a band so much are so quick to ditch them once they're poised for popularity. I'm sure they'd rather have loyal 14-year-old girls at their shows than their fickle older sisters.


*By Jess, who lives young.

PlayRadioPlay! released from Island Records

On his myspace blog, PlayRadioPlay!'s Dan Hunter announced his departure from Island Records. Hunter also denounces the music industry as a whole, claiming it's "going the way of the cassette tape."

While I can agree with him on one level--the industry is pretty fucked, and they're not adapting to technology and new methods of promotion at all--he also isn't taking too much responsibility for his big fault, either.

PlayRadioPlay!'s Island debut, The Frequency E.P., was a wonderful confection, but his full length, Texas, was mediocre at best. It didn't have many hooks or melodies or anything to grab, capture and keep a listener. In addition, while his blogs are all well-written, clever, and raise many good points, I can't help but sense some sour grapes.

This isn't to say the label did a good job promoting the record. Aside from us and a review in Entertainment Weekly, I didn't see any press for it anywhere. In addition, the label tended to pick the shittiest songs for singles, which couldn't have helped the then-17-year-old's case.

Dan, instead of pointing fingers, just sing about it. It could be your big break.


*By Jess, who made the best chicken alfredo in history last night.

"One of the Boys" is right.

Katy Perry's solo major label debut, One of the Boys, demonstrates that on major labels, music is a business--not an art.

For one, works of art don't come with press kits the size of Dostoyevsky novels.

More importantly: Art is generally original, whereas Perry's works mainly bite off of other mainstream pop acts. Her heavily rotating single, "I Kissed a Girl," tackles the heavy issue of Girls Gone Wild-era bisexuality; a more convincing and believable ode to experimentation would be "Oh My God" by Pink--incidentally, quite a few of Perry's hooks are reminiscent to Ms. Alecia Moore's as well. When she's not pulling a Pink, Perry morphs into a prettier Kelly Clarkson ("Waking Up in Vegas," an admitted pop gem) or Avril Lavigne ("Thinking of You").

Armed with a dream team of producers from Planet Verge favorite Butch Walker to pop monster maker Max Martin, Perry's strained vocals skip along lyrics that are indeed catchy--but not quite as clever as she wants us to think. From "Hot N' Cold's" line "You PMS like a bitch / I would know" to nearly all of "Ur So Gay" and "I Kissed a Girl," Perry proves she's one of the boys in that she has the lyrical capacity of a middle school male.

Katy Perry's record may not be good for the furthering of the arts, but she's great for big business.

...Just don't expect her to shatter any glass ceilings.

*By Jess, who is wearing keyboard-print flip flops.

311 Discuss Summer Tour & New Album

It's time for 311's annual summer tour and this year the band is hitting the road with Snoop Dogg! The band discusses their success and upcoming album below.

Read on and then head over to www.erockster.com where PV is the featured Music Critic!


311 Q&A: Answers by Nick Hexum (vocals/guitar), SA Martinez (vocals/dj), P-Nut (bass).

311 is once again headlining amphitheaters this summer. In recent years, 311's live concert draw has grown larger than ever, with many shows drawing crowds of 10,000 people or more. How does the 311 touring machine continue to get bigger and stronger over the years?

NICK: I think our shows continue to grow because of the special connection that we have with our fans and that our fans have with each other. We're extremely grateful that so many people want to come to the shows and we're deeply committed to putting on an exciting show every night.

SA: I think our growing concert draw is a reflection of our growth as a band over the years. What we've been experiencing in recent years is the bridging of the generations. Some of our fans who have been with us for a long time are now sharing their musical connections with their younger siblings or even with their kids. And historically bands that have stayed together over many years tend to attract new fans as younger generations come of age and discover the music for themselves.

P-NUT: Our shows keep getting bigger for two reasons. First off: we tour every summer and because of that, it's become an annual event that people don't want to miss. People know we'll be coming and plan accordingly. Also, we have the best advertising agency in the world, OUR FANS. The people who tell their friends to come to a 311 show to have a great time have given this band longevity. We thank them for that.

311 always brings out impressive, diverse acts on tour from The Roots to Matisyahu to Papa Roach to The Wailers (and years ago Incubus, No Doubt & Korn). This summer Snoop Dogg and Fiction Plane join the bill. How do you feel about 311 and Snoop teaming up for the summer journey?

NICK: We couldn't be happier about it. We've been fans of Snoop for a long time. He has managed longevity in the hip hop world which is extremely rare. The pairing comes at a great time for 311 because the pendulum has swung back towards raps and dope beats in some of our music - so this summer will be a blast!

SA: The 311 and Snoop package is just a natural progression for both acts. We've always had diverse acts open for us because of our diverse musical stew (mixing rock & reggae & hip-hop). I think our fans will love seeing Snoop, and I think he'll definitely widen his fan base because of the match-up.

P-NUT: 311 and Snoop will be a legendary pairing that shouldn't be missed by anyone who likes musick and goodness.

What can 311 fans expect on this summer's Unity Tour?
NICK: Copious amounts of fragrant funk and rock and relaxed reggae. We tailor each set list to go with the vibe we are feeling, so each night is a unique experience.

SA. 311 fans can expect what they always expect from a 311 concert experience - a GREAT SHOW! I think our reputation speaks for itself.

P-NUT: Fans can expect to be have the times of their lives. (no refunds for having no fun).

311 has been writing material for a new album for a tentative Spring 2009 release. Has the band approached writing and recording this new album any different? What direction do you see the new songs going?

NICK: The new songs build on themes that we have started before but take them leaps and bounds further. I cannot think of a time that we have worked as hard for so long on a collection of songs. Personally, I have been expanding my knowledge of theory and learned many new jazz guitar chords so the textures are getting more complex without losing the catchiness and groove of our previous stuff. One thing we have been mindful of is writing grooves that make people want to dance. The songs are going to be great live and also interesting to just listen to on headphones.

SA. I think this album is going to be a benchmark in our career. It has come together so far like no previous 311 recording. Everything continues to evolve.

P-NUT: We are making sure this album is a fully thought-out and realized piece of creativity for all to enjoy.


311 will be recording the new album with esteemed producer Bob Rock (Metallica, Bon Jovi, The Cult, etc). How is that relationship with Bob going and what do you see Bob bringing to the new album?

NICK: Bob brings a fresh point of view to our music. It's the perfect fit. There have been countless times where Bob makes a suggestion and the bandmembers look at each other and say, "Why didn't we think of that?" He's an amazing engineer that is getting the best tones, but he's also very much a song guy.

SA. Bob's great. He's able to hear what belongs in the song and what is cluttering it.

P-NUT: This recording experience (so far) has been great because of having Bob at the controls; nice to learn from a new master. Bob makes sure everyone is giving their best.

311 just rocked another sold-out 3-11 Day show in New Orleans. 14,000 Tickets were sold to fans in all 50 U.S. states and 12 different countries. The band played for 5 hours (63 songs). What makes that show so special that it brings your fans together from all over the world?

NICK: 3-11-08 was one of the greatest nights of my life. There was so much energy and love in the arena. It was overwhelming but only in a good way. Our band has not won a lot of awards and such but this night really reminded us how far we and our fans have come together. It felt like winning a Grammy or something even better. I was so charged by the crowd that I didn't get tired until ninety minutes after the 5 hour show. Then I ate some pizza and fell asleep. What a night!

SA. 3-11 Day is the best. It's a lot of work, but so worth it. On everyone's part - band and fan alike. We all sacrifice for that day but the love that is shared is so important for our growth and continual transformation.

P-NUT: The sheer numbers of the 3-11 Day show makes it so special. People know we are going to put on the show of shows and since it's every other year, it's always fresh when we assemble our all star team of songs and fans. And that's what it's all about.

How do you see the next handful of years going for the band?

NICK: I expect big things for us. There is an excitement and cooperation in the studio and backstage that is palpable. I believe our fans are going to sense it at the shows and when they hear the album. There is no end in sight for us. We've gotten a second wind fueled by our fans, both old and new, that makes us very grateful. Onward we rock!

SA. The next few years, (which will fly by like they all do) I see us continuing our expansion, musically and geographically. We're going to tour more and share the love.

P-NUT: I see the next years for 311 being about taking the musick to new and expanding audiences. Respect to all 311 fans and lovers of life.

Butch Walker, Daryl Palumbo, Jennifer Arroyo & Billy Graziadei to Judge the Independent Music Awards

The Independent Music Awards (IMAs) has announced the first wave of distinguished artists and industry professionals joining the IMA judging panel that will determine the winners of the upcoming 8th annual IMA program.

Artist panelists already confirmed for this year’s program:
Peter Gabriel, Roger Daltrey, Suzanne Vega, George Jones, Buddy Guy, Paquito D’Rivera, Lee Ritenour, Keith Urban, James “Blood” Ulmer, Steve Vai, Clint Black, Rob Wasserman, DJ Skribble, John Patitucci, Zakk Wylde, Butch Walker, Brian Littrell (Backstreet Boys), Tim Lambesis (As I Lay Dying, Austrian Death Machine), Daryl Palumbo (Head Automatica, Glassjaw), Kristen Henderson (Antigone Rising), Billy Graziadei (Biohazard, Suicide City), and Jennifer Arroyo (ex-Kittie, Suicide City).

Industry panelists participating in this year’s program include influential music and new media press as well as radio, TV & Festival programmers such as: Anthony DeCurtis (Rolling Stone, Contributing Editor), Bob Ludwig (Gateway Mastering, Engineer), Aimee Allen (Indie 103.1, DJ), Jason Olaine (The Festival Network, VP of Programming), Mike Errico (Blender.com, Editor), Joe Cuello (MTV Networks), Barbara Dacey (mvyradio.com, Director of Worldwide Programming), Lee Mergner (JazzTimes, Editor In Chief), Paul Anthony (Rumblefish, CEO), K. Tighe (Venus Zine, Music Reviews Editor).

The judging panelists are responsible for selecting the winners in the programs’ 54 song, design and music video categories. Additional judges and new program highlights are expected before the submission deadline on August 1, 2008.

The IMAs – ‘the awards program for the indie revolution’ is an unique international program that promotes top-ranked independent artists, labels and releases to more than 15 million music fans and industry decision makers.

“Everyone affiliated with the IMAs is honored to have these visionary artists and influential industry pros participate in what is regarded as one of the music industry’s most effective programs for giving vetted indie talent access to larger fan bases, airplay distribution, broadcast and performance opportunities” said Martin Folkman, Director of the Independent Music Awards. “Their creative and professional perspectives and their industry affiliations help us to support a wide variety of independent musicians and releases that are making an impact on today’s chaotic music scene” said Folkman.

Music Resource Group, parent of the Independent Music Awards and publisher of the music industry’s popular print and online contact databases, the Musician’s Atlas and AtlasOnline is able to promote IMA Winners to more than 15 million music fans and key industry gatekeepers such as radio programmers, talent buyers, film, TV & gaming music supervisors, distributors and retailers due to its unique relationships with the music industry overall as well as its strategic partnerships that include: online retail giant eMusic, digital network ManiaTV; radio promotion gurus The Planetary Group, PureVolume, HIP Video Promo, The Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS), Venus Zine, Burnside Distribution, radio tracking service, MediaGuide and The Stream of Consciousness Interactive Television Network.

IMA Winners & Finalists enjoy a full year of print, online, broadcast and retail promotions as well as performance opportunities throughout the year. The finalists of the 8th program will be announced in October 2008; Winners to be announced in December.

In addition to the winners selected by the IMA reviews panel, the program also features a ‘peoples choice’ component – the IMA Vox Populi poll designed to provide more opportunities for indie artists to be heard and win new fans. The IMA Vox Populi Winners are also promoted to industry and music fans via print, online and other promotional initiatives. Last year, more than 37,000 music fans from around the globe cast their votes in the Vox Populi poll.

To see a full list of judges and to read their bios, visit www.independentmusicawards.com

Contact: Joelle@independentmusicawards.com

lostprophet Ian Watkins Introduces Wearable Art

Anticipation has been brewing among lostprophets fans ever since Ian Watkins alluded he was going to be making a big announcement. The frontman finally released the news-he's going to be releasing his art as wearable t-shirts. With a background in graphic design and the lostprophets album art and merch to his cred, it's a natural step. Plus, he's so well groomed that who wouldn't want to take a few style notes from him?



You may be thinking "Ok, do we really need another musician trying to make more money by further exploiting their name and starting a merch company?"

No. That's why Watkins is doing the exact opposite. He's too cool to sell out. But, his t-shirts will!

Each design is limited to 500 shirts and hand numbered. After 500 are made, Watkins will destroy the template. That means that your chances of going out and seeing someone across the room in your exact outfit are slim to none.

Every shirt is features a hand pulled full-color print with a back print logo, custom tags and embroidery and arrives at your door along with a custom laminate, lanyard and pin badge.

But here's what's even more exciting: each is designed in both women's and men's sizes! Bonus props there. Ian knows the way to a women's heart is through making hot designs that fit our forms.

Upon purchasing, you'll notice that all prices are listed in UK funds. Keep in mind that 1 U.S. Dollar = 0.499238 British Pounds. So the shirts listed as £23.00 at checkout, actually total about $48 out of American wallets. But it's deff. worth it.

So why did Watkins finally make the move to designer after always turning down offers to start his own clothing line?

"As you may or may not know, I used to be a graphic designer and still do all the artwork for the band - album covers, single covers, merch, website, logos etc etc (Jamie helps with illustrations sometimes because he's an awesome painter). Naturally, I've amassed a lot of ideas and designs that couldn't or haven't worked in the context of the band. I looked through them a few months back and realized it would be a shame to let them go to waste."

What artists is he inspired by?

"In my studies of graphic design, I've gotten well into art and collecting it when possible. My favorite is mostly street, urban stuff like Banksy and Micallef etc, because I love the way that when they do something, it's limited and unique. The person who owns their work has the pleasure of knowing that there are very few people in the world who have claim to the same thing."

Will we be seeing ads everywhere and will Ian sadly turn into Pete Wentz?

"I don't really want to call this a company. I see it more as an experiment, an event. There wont be any big marketing campaign, no big promo, no giveaways. This is something special that I am doing myself. You won't be able to get my shirts in stores or through any other outlets. I don't feel the need to advertise it any further than telling you guys and letting you spread the word."

Is each design REALLY limited edition?

"I am going to make four of my own designs, as well as one collaboration with another artist, at a time. I will only produce a limited number of each design. As each one sells out, the screen will be destroyed, never to be produced again. That's it, done. Once all the designs are gone, a new set will go up. Each shirt will be made to order - there's no stockpiled warehouse lying in wait. Every shirt will be numbered and custom made, and will come with a sticker and a badge. Every design will come from my brain via my hands though whatever medium I feel like using at that moment. It's a way to get my ideas out and have other people be a part of it - looking fucking awesome while doing so.

Every shirt is MADE TO ORDER. Which means we only print them at the end of every week. It's not like we are a big corporate machine churning them out super fast, so you may have to wait a few days longer, but in the long run you know you are getting something that was made just because you asked for it, rather than just made for anyone."

MADE IN GOLD



"Yes yes we all know everyone and their dog does gold foil prints, but do any of them say 'made in hell' and have a big gun on them? Do they fuck."

BLOODY BIRDS



"Scare the fuck out of people with this little beauty, and if they look for too long, just scream "Yesss thats right, THERE ARE FUCKING EVIL BIRDS COMING OUT OF INNOCENT BIRDS' HEADS!!"


HEATHEN SENT



"If angels existed, they would probably be really hot, and if they ever got bored in heaven and went to play in hell they would be much hotter. A subtle number, for use when the occasion demands a classier approach."


VAMPIRE WEAKEND



"Its slutty lips you wish your girlfriend had. Its vampire teeth you wish you had, and its fucking massive so everyone can see what ur about."


Shop, now:

www.myspace.com/wearemadeinhell

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* By Joelle, whose favorite band is Lostprophets and already placed an order.

Get the new Kooks song, "Brooklyn," at Planet Verge.com

A lot show reviews often note that the band of subject is so much better live than on the CD. That usually translates to "The CD isn't really that good, but don't judge them on that. Just see the live show and you'll like them."

In the case of Brighton, England's The Kooks, the band is SO MUCH BETTER LIVE. In a totally unbelievable way because both their albums are so insanely amazing, no one would ever imagine that they surpass even the recordings during the live show. They could have blasted a hole in the solar system or something because as soon as the members stepped on stage, it's like the world changed. Time could have stopped because the only thing that mattered was watching the songs fans have been playing over and over and over again come to life.



The tracks on The Kooks' debut, Inside In/Inside Out and its recently released follow-up, KONK, are catchy. They'll stick in your head as soon as you hear them. But when they're played on stage, they just POP.

Vocalist, Luke Pritchard, moves around the stage channeling Jim Morrison. His voice is just as clean live as it is recorded, so you know that there's not much correction during production. It's all pretty much organic with The Kooks and that's what's going to give them longevity.



The rise of The Kooks seems to have happened all very suddenly. One day the band is slowly leaking over to the USA through streaming BBC Radio stations, the next "She Moves in Her Own Way" is sweetening up modern rock radio and before anyone knew what was happening, the band has two sold-out shows in New York City. If things keep up-- and there's no doubt they will--- hysteria is not too far off. Right now, the "cool" crowd is all over these guys. But as soon as MTV and all the Pop radio stations start playing The Kooks, all the young screaming girls are going to start lining up before shows chanting their names. It might just be the next Beatlesque invasion. It's probably happening in the UK already, if any of the magazine covers and features in Men's Vogue have anything to do with it.



Unfortunately for the show's opening act, The Morning Benders, the same cannot be said. It's understandable the band was placed on this tour because its sound is so similiar to The Kooks. But this California-based act seems so new and nervous, it just didn't fly. These songs are actually better on the album then live.

To play Terminal 5, a band's really got to have a huge sound because the soundsystem is so bad. So that could also have something to do with The Morning Benders not totally winning over the crowd. Hopefully, the band members are taking notes from The Kooks and will end the snorefest that happens as they play. Towards the end of the set, things did pick up. The band told fans to dance, and so they did. But it was only during the single, "Waiting for a War."


Now for a few complaints:

What is up with....

* People actually talking on their cell phones during the show?

* The jerks who are waving their hands up in the air but TEXTING with one finger as they're screaming?

* The friggin' tall as hell man who decided it was a good idea to stand in front of short people?

* The security guard escorting me over to Will Call and holding my camera hostage until I picked up my photo pass?

* The venue pulling an Irving Plaza and not allowing flash photography? Grr...

* The hurricane/tornado that happened in Essex County, NJ while we were in the show and we had to come home to!?


** By Joelle, who along with her friend Theresa, ran into The Kooks new bass player Daniel and the band's guitar tech Adam, at a bar before the show. They chatted about Bon Jovi, explained what NJ guidos are like and learned about the UK's version- trackies.

PLANET VERGE PRESENTS A BONUS TRACK FROM THE KOOKS-- "Brooklyn"
You can get it off the CD that accompanies KONK, or listen to it RIGHT NOW at www.planetverge.com

MEET THE KOOKS- BEHIND THE SCENES FOOTAGE FROM KOOKSTV




THE KOOK's new video, "Shine On," from KONK

Ashes Divide, Filter & Stone Temple Pilots @ PNC Bank Arts Center

It was a setting fit for a riot at PNC Bank Arts Center over the weekend. The sold-out beer stenched venue was littered with mainstream radio meatheads, their bottle dyed and fried ladies (see photo below) and a missing headliner.





Whether or not there was turmoil going on backstage, it took Stone Temple Pilots a very long, unnecessary hour to take the stage. The obviously anorexic super drunk women sitting around row 120 or so occupied her time taking pictures of every person with eye distance. They had a laugh and took her picture in return. One Planet Verge reporter (who might be the author of this article) wanted to punch her in the face, as it was getting quite annoying.

Meanwhile a mother of four (ages one to fifteen years-old > and this is public knowledge because she is loud and obnoxious) wearing a Playboy bunnyesque tank top that her boobs were overflowing out of decided to take matters into her own bands. “Entertain us!” she yelled. Because, obviously the band could hear her, right?

Then came the chant and on-screen text messages like “Weiland has left the building.”

Oh, yes. What a night.

But let’s start from the beginning…


Pre-show:

The morning reveals thunderous weather. Memories of a Red Hot Chili Peppers (WHAT WAS I THINKING!?) / Stone Temple Pilot show at PNC years ago flood my mind. It poured. Fans started to throw mud and piss in the lawn. That was my cue to go home mid-set.

Determined to fare better this time around, I spent the afternoon speed shopping through SIX stores to find rain boots before actually finding a pair at Target. All hail Target.




Doors Open:

After selling an extra lawn seat to a random dude for $15 dollars in front of cops, I started to fear he was an undercover agent. But after reasoning that I charged way below face value, I shrugged it off and went on my merry way to security.


I was deferred to a female body guard to pat me down (new rules) upon entering PNC and managed to bribe the concession stand guy to let me keep the cap of my $5 bottle of Diet Pepsi and pay $5 for a pretzel before I could settle in for openers ASHES DIVIDE.










Lots of anticipation led up to this set.

Led by Billy Howerdell (guitarist for A Perfect Circle), Ashes Divide is indisputably the best new band of ’08 in modern rock. It doesn’t matter that the year is barely half over.

The band opened on a pretty mellow note that set the tone of sophistication. Ashes Divide is not your general loud party rock band playing a 92.3 KRock sponsored show.
That’s not to say they aren’t catchy, though. “Denial Waits” has a chorus that will be glued to heads upon first listen. Those who were wise enough to show up early and catch the band’s set did not stop applauding.

With an Eighteen Visions meets The Cure vibe, Ashes Divide proved it’s a band to watch. Things really pick up during the live show when songs call for heavy bass riffs (hence the 18V reference) and the guitarist and bassist start to rock out more.
Otherwise, the stage is pretty static. It would be nice to see Billy move away from the mic stand once in a while, but if it’s not his thing then let it be.

Guitarist Andy Gerold added his own bit of “pop” by wearing the only non-black shirt and playing a bright orange instrument. It’s cool to see that a heavy band doesn’t have to be all tattooed up and dressed in black to “prove” its toughness.

The only thing that didn’t work in the favor of Ashes Divide was the early set time. The songs, it is surmised, would touch fans more during the night time. But if the “who was the opener” text messages scrawling across the giant screens in between sets are any indication, this band will be headlining very soon.



WATCH A BIT OF ASHES DIVIDE'S SET FROM PLANET VERGE ON YOU TUBE


Intermission:

My notebook reads “girl with fried hair a few seats up. How does fried hair girl get good seats?”

Yea, there were seriously a lot of overly bleached and frizzy haired women there.


Disappointment:

I could not wait for Filter. During the first song, I was breaking out my camera saying “I love them!” Then my mood changed.

Richard Patrick gave the audience too much attitude. He was actually getting irritated because people were not cheering for them. Telling the “rich people” in front they were too bothered to get up front and have a good time was pretty lame. It’s a sorry method to get people to cheer for you because they want to prove you wrong.

“It’s the audience that makes the rock concert,” yelled Patrick. But if the band isn’t giving them what they want, then uh….whose to blame for that?



Dedicating a song to “the two fuck heads in the white house” seemed to backfire, too.

Basically, Filter is a great band. They played the songs people wanted to hear. Everyone still loved “the picture song” as one fan called it. But the laid back “I’m a rock star and I’m gonna get out there, wear my sunglasses in the dark, spit water on the crowd and sing like an old pro” vibe of the frontman just soured the experience slightly.



WATCH A CLIP OF FILTER'S SET HERE FROM PLANET VERGE ON YOU TUBE

Return of the Rock:

After getting off to a rocky start during the first few songs which left fans questioning his state of mind, Scott Weiland claimed the stage. He owned it the entire show.

Sure, he may have forgotten a few lyrics, but the guy sang like 20 songs for two hours straight. No one has a machine for a memory.

Yes, he looked like a disaster with bleached blonde and hot pink dreads. But that’s what is so cool about Weiland.










The run of the mill fans were lost during songs that weren’t singles. And that’s when you actually got a chance to enjoy listening because no one was singing along.

Stone Temple Pilots are one of the few bands that actually deserve the term “rock star” and watching the members take a bow at the end of the night just makes you hope they’ll continue to rock stages for a long time to come.





WATCH A CLIP OF STONE TEMPLE PILOTS' SET HERE FROM PLANET VERGE ON YOU TUBE


* By Joelle, listed to A Perfect Circle’s debut CD for 6 months straight while she was in bed with mono.

*** STAY TUNED FOR AN INTERVIEW WITH ASHES DIVIDE! *******

** Ashes Divide Photos by over buddy Dave Sgalambro- www.myspace.com/sgphotog

www.myspace.com/ashesdivide