Editor-in-chief:
Photography:
Writing:
Models:
Acacia Evans Sarah McGonagle
Acacia Evans Nolan Knight Samantha Madnick Dana Mansbart Andi Rogers Clark Terrell
Miquella Baker Luke Duran Acacia Evans Nolan Knight Niki Major Kaitlyn Midgett M.J Rawls
Matt Baratz Cole McDonnell Kelsea Goessel Lauren Grieves Yves Mathieu Sarah Ritter
Founder: Acacia Evans
Graphic Design:
Brands:
Alyson Coletta Andi Rogers
Dirty Clothing Co. Hooligan Recordings
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Twitter: @bctpress
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A huge "thank you" to all of those who helped to make this magazine possible! This includes Cody Simpson, Press Here Publicity, Fearless Records, Mike Ziemer and the South By So What?! crew, Capitol Records, Olivver The Kid, Diana Espir, Rachel Martin, Shanica Knowles, Stalking Gia, Nate Sirotta, This Wild Life, Epitaph Records, Equal Vision Records, and more!
UE HIGHLIGHT 20
92
1n�1de South bi So What
F..\SHIOI REv EW lndusrr al C ameleon
04 - Interview: Stick to Your Guns 1 O -
48 - Hooligans Recordings
10 - Album Review:
62 - Inside: Beartooth House Show
Dance Gavin Dance
68 - Photos: Zombie 5 Tour
12 - Interview: La La Lush
78 - Dirty Clothing Co.
14 - Interview: This Wild Life
82 - Photos +Interview: Jenna
24 - Photos: Slaves
McDougall of Tonight Alive
36 - Photos + Interview: Oliwer the Kid
90 - FASHION: Bohemian
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I also had two of my original songs on the score of the film, "Burns Through Ice" and "Disarm You." This was the first time in lifetime history that they had someone sing all the musical numbers live without anything being recorded in the studio. This project will always and forever be my baby, and will always remain a big part of my career.
You've worked with Corbin in the past on Disney on Hannah Montana and Jump In! What was it like working outside of Disney? Working with Corbin is always a good time. "Megachurch Murder" was definitely a new experience for us because we're all grown up now. Therefore this was our first drama/adult role together and we b�th came in this with our A game. Corbin gave one of his best on camera performances in this movie. He really connected with his character Marcus King on a deeper level, and for that reason, he was definitely one of my favorite characters. However, it was super weird when I killed him with a Bible. Hahaha....awkward.
You're well known for your role on Hannah Montana as Amber Addison for about five years! Do you think those years helped you grow as an actress? Being Amber Addison on the Disney show "Hannah Montana" definitely helped me grow as an actress, but more so it helped me understand this industry and how to play the game. I was very young back then, and was very green to the Hollywood scene. It's very true what they say when you're a child star, you have to grow up very fast. Because of that show, I was able to develop wisdom at a young age, which has helped me become the woman I am today.
SHA�ICA Do you prefer working on movies or television shows and why? I prefer television shows over movies because with movies it's a one-time deal. Maybe you shoot for a couple months and then it's over. With television shows the story continues for years and years to co�e, which to me, makes everything more interesting. With that being said, working on a show for seasons at a time, you end up building stronger relationships that will last you forever, and that to me is what I cherish the most.
What advice can you give to someone who's trying to juggle acting and music at the same time? My advice to those who are trying to juggle music and acting at the same time is to make sure this is something that you are extremely passionate about or else this industry can sell your soul.
You have an absolutely incredible resume with film, television, commercials, voice-overs, and more! What are your plans for the future both in the entertainment world? My next project I'm working on is my friend Raven Symone's new album. We're big supporters of one another and have always wanted to make music together, so now is the perfect time. In my opinion, Raven is the true definition of a star inside and out, and I'm honored to be on this journey with her.
What would you like to say to your fans? I only have one thing to tell my fans out there: "I dare you to be the first."
As well all know, you were in A Rocket To The Moon. How was that transition from a band to a solo artist? It's interesting. I slam the camera and run off ... no **all laugh** it's interesting. It's been about two years since the split and I mean at first it was really nerve-wracking because I had to find my voice. I had to figure out what I was on my own because I was so used to having guys support me the entire time. I didn't have to be an amazing guitar player. If I messed up here and there it wouldn't go noticed because I had other guys. When you watch a live band, you can't tell if that guitarist hit a G chord when he wasn't supposed to. When it's just me playing an acoustic guitar and singing, if I hit a wrong chord (which I do almost every single time I play) ... at first it was really bad. I had to kinda relearn how to do everything because I had to be okay with both of these things, it's all I had. I think no matter what you do, practice is always going to make perfect. Obviously I'm far from perfect, but I think I'm better now playing like that than I was when I was in the band just confidence wise. I couldn't crack a joke and let the other guy finish it, it's all me. If anything, yeah, it helped make me a better musician, but most importantly it made me a better front person.
Being able to connect, so now when I have another band I'll have more confidence.
You're about to go out on tour with Oh Honey! What are you most excited for? I feel like I haven't done a full U.S. tour yet as my solo thing. Ever since Rocket's last tour with The Maine I've done a lot of international stuff and then I did little markets scattered on smaller tours. For instance I haven't played Los Angeles since 2011 when I was with Rocket when we were on the NeverShoutNever tour. And I haven't played Portland or Seattle since 2012. So it's gonna be cool to play those places. I mean I did Warped Tour, but I don't see that as the same. I think that's what I'm excited about. They're also my friends, Oh Honey, so it's always good to go with your friends. You don't have to Feel like you have to learn everybody. And I'm by myself and I'm super awkward. I Aew here today by myself and I'm like walking around, "Where do I get my pass?"
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Where did the name "Stalking Gia" come from?
Who would you say are your biggest music influences?
It was my username for a while on World of Warcraft. I just switched it over to my artist name. Being an artist is basically saying, "Hey world, feel free to stalk me."
Probably all of the music in my record collection. History always repeats itself, everything is a remix.
Recently you put out your song "War Paint." In the song you say, "Got my scars to show, won't give into the thrill, I'm standing on my own." What does this line mean to you? Not being in a relationship For the sake of being in a relationship. Holding out For something true and real the next time I expose myself to another.
What made you pursue a career in music? I never sought out to pursue it. Music seduced me.
If you could col l ab with any artist, dead or al ive, who would it be? Easy! My soul mate, Elvis Presley.
What's your favorite city to play in and why?
If you could record any other genre, what would it be?
New York City, because it's my natural habitat. That being said, I haven't performed in Japan yet but I have a Feeling that will take the role as my new favorite ....
Italian Opera. There was a time I took lessons weekly. I know "O S ole Mio" by heart, but that's about it.
What is the best advice you've been given by someone in the industry? This is something everyone says but not everyone follows the advice: stay true to yourself. If you start your artist "persona" as a lie, it's just going to grow into something you're not. I'll always stick to the music I believe in.
What is a song you currently can't get out of you head? All That by Carly Rae Jepson. She wrote it with Dev Hynes, who just so happens to be my obsession. Now you have me singing it again, thanks a lot.
Any plans for 2015/16 we should all be anticipating? More remix's of Born Free, more original songs, collaborations, videos, editorials and TOUR.
I'll ALWAYS STICK TO THE MUSIC I BELIEVE IN.
Tell us a little bit about how you broke Explain your new sound and what you love You are currently traveling and have upcoming shows all over the place, where into the entertainment world. most about it.
is by far your favorite place you have ever It's not really new it's just me, just me sharing performed? myself with others, spreading a positive and conscious message with whoever decides to take Argentina! The energy is amazing down there. a listen. Honing in on my guitar playing and lyrical creativity was such a good time. It's acoustic rock Fan Questions: music with a purpose to make you feel good and @SammyLafoe: How was it working with open your mind a little. So stoked on it.
I started posting little clips and original tunes online when I was 12 and 13 years old, only to be contacted pretty quickly by a couple dudes over here in the States. I kind of just jumped at the opportunity and have been riding the wave through my teen years. I've learned an unexplainable amount about life, music, and about myself in the past 4-5 years. I just turned 18 and so keen to get release my first project on my How did Miley Cyrus end up shooting the very own Coast House records. I hope I can play cover artwork for "Flower"? for people and make them feel good all my life. There's no greater purpose. We ended up becoming friends right before I started writing for the album. I told her a little Do you think over the years your musical about my ambitions, plans for the project, my inspirations have changed/evolved, just label and all, she was stoked for me. She loved the like your music? Flower tune and I asked if she'd be keen to shoot the cover artwork. It all happened last minute and My musical inspirations have only changed within 30 minutes she sent 10 different options. slightly through the years. Now I just have the Very, very cool chick. freedom to be the musician I've always been. I listen to a lot of Neil Young to Bob Marley to Why did you chose the title "Free" for your Hendrix; to Jack Johnson to Mayer to Ben Harper upcoming album? and to a lot of cool dudes that make this kind of It's symbolic of my newly found independence organic music that I love so much. and creative freedom. As I grow up I'm building and discovering my own life philosophies and it How has your recording process all seemed to fit well into a concise and powerful changed since parting ways with Atlantic title.
Records?
My recording process is so natural. Recording "Free" was a breeze. Cisco Adler and I wrote the entire thing out at his spot perched up atop Malibu. I've been trying to spread good energy to others and the universe rewarded us with so many free-flowing ideas and the songs basically wrote themselves. No middle men, no politics!
Cisco Alder and adjusting to the new sound of music that you're making currently?
Well Cisco just understood who I was and what I wanted out of this music. We speak the same language in a lot of different realms and the creativity flows so freely when we're together.
@iyiyikayleigh: What do you do if you are ever homesick and miss Australia? I'll give one of my hometown mates a call and catch up on everything. Sometimes not hearing an Aussie accent and being away from the ocean for a while can drive me insane! @xokillyox: What is your workout routine?
I don't really have a specific workout routine. Any sport that gets your heart going is good for you. If not I'll just hit push-ups and sit-ups in my Who would you like to collaborate with in the hotel room or dressing room! future? Lastly, what would you like to say to your Neil Young. "Thrasher" is one of my favorite tunes fans? of all time and to sing that one with him would be Thank you for riding on this journey with me. unreal. Honestly so excited to share this music with you. Hopefully first of many Coast House albums! Peace and love and be cool towards everyone you meet!
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You’re currently on The Future Hearts Tour with All Time Low, Issues, and State Champs. What was your initial reaction when learning about this tour?
Stoked! We’ve played with All Time Low a lot of times before so it just felt natural. I guess something we’ve always hoped we would team up for was to tour the states. We’ve done Warped Tour together, which isn’t quite the same a tour like this. We’ve supported All Time Low in the UK and we’ve done Soundwave together in Australia. This just really made sense to us and we’re really happy to be here.
How about State Champs and Issues?
Yeah, it’s great. This is our first experience touring with both of those bands and they’re awesome. We broke the ice within like the first three days. It usually takes a week or two to really get on the comfortable basis where you can just walk on eachother’s bandwagon or bus. That happened straight away which was really unusual.
You tour a lot in the United States! Since you’re from Sydney, do you enjoy hometown shows or the U.S. better?
Of course playing home is like nothing else. It’s definitely what I’m most noticed for, most excited about, and most prepared for. All your energy and attention goes to a home show because it means a lot to be playing in front of your family, friends, and fans that saw you when you were first playing. Even playing for ten people?! We have played for ten people before and those people still come to our shows. But being in America and playing a tour like this, that goes for six weeks, every night is an opportunity to affect someone. Hopefully between what we say and what we play, we’re touching people and creating new relationships.
Your newest release The Other Side was
put out in 2013. What was the hardest part about writing and putting that album out?
That whole album was written around a time that was a massive challenge for us. It was between sickness, between relationships, breakups, and management issues, so we were going through a lot of growing pains. That’s the best time to write an
album though!
Absolutely; I’m proud of that record because it was the therapy that it took for us to take the BIG CITY THOUGHTS - 85
next step forward. I guess the hardest part was maybe being honest with ourselves, but that’s something that I pride myself on in our lyrics. I’m really glad that I told the stories that I did because saying things out loud is sometimes the only way I know to deal. I’m an extrovert, I talk a lot, I feel a lot, and that’s kinda why I started writing music. What do you think the biggest difference
is between self-releasing music and releasing through a label?
realizing that I have a channel, an opportunity to speak to people and share knowledge. For me, I’m just a person that’s hungry to learn. I think you can’t force that but you’re hungry, eat. Don’t wait until you’re starving and then the hunger goes. Someone taught me that and it’s really important to me. It was like, “You need to pick up a book.” I’ve been told that by a few different people. I went through this whole crazy sickness thing with Eczema, which sounds weird, but it was related to intestinal and organ stuff! It’s crazy, I didn’t know this but I was sick on the inside. Now my skin is showing it and emotionally it’s bringing me down. I’ve seen this doctor and he just said to me, “You’re under stimulated. There’s all these things that you have the capacity to do and to learn and to share. You’re not feeding the hunger.” So there’s been a lot of self-reflection being in a band and I think it’s been a real strength for me to be able to reflect, put a microscope on everything, and talk about feelings. It turns out there’s a lot of people who feel the same. It’s special. What advice can you give to bands that
Releasing through a label, there are a lot of different employees that will market your record, generate press; there’s contacts I guess. It’s a different system. We’re never actually self-released, even our first EP we were signed to a indie label in Australia called Takedown Records. What that basically meant for us was having the funding to do a video clip and to press CD’s. It’s kinda like support that you don’t have, especially when you’re young and have never had a job before. I can’t really speak for anyone who has selfreleased, I really admire that. I think it takes a lot of knowledge and experience that I especially don’t have. are starting up and participating in all of these “break contests”? Rumor has it that you’re planning on I think that if you’re going to be in music, you see it releasing music this year, is there anything you as your future, it’s your passion and all that kinda stuff, can say about that? you need to look at the reasons that you’re in it. Your Sure! We’re making a record. It’s exciting. It’s personal reasons and feelings being reflected outwards finally finished being written and that took a year and as well. What I’m trying to say is that if you wanna be a a half, maybe up to two years. We really squeezed great musician, get in your room and play and practice. every little juice out of the time we had. We didn’t rush Extend your knowledge. If you want to affect people anything and we’re planning not to rush the recording with lyrics, look at lyrics that mean something to you and either. We’re halfway through laying down the tracks. figure out what that person did right to affect you. If you We have the skeleton of an album right now, and after wanna write the greatest song of all time, work on your this we’re going to go back to Jersey to finish it. We’re songwriting. Don’t worry about your image, don’t worry recording with David Bendeth, he’s from Jersey, so about labels. The internet is a big contributing factor to that’s been home base for a while. Like I said, we’re just that. We see a lot of bands that think social networking trying not to rush this because everything we’ve done is how they’re gonna succeed but it’s not. You have to in the past has been based around touring and I think right good songs. A good song is something that makes it’s time we pay a little bit more attention to the finer you feel something, that’s what people grab onto. So details. We’ve done a lot of touring, we’ve toured with just be genuine people, do it because you love it. Not a lot of the biggest bands in our scene. We’ve done two because you want someone’s attention, not because Warped Tours. We’ve trying to grow as much as we can. you want approval from someone else. And also don’t I think it’s time for us to look at a new formula though. worry about management, booking, label…those things It’s time to grow in a different way and I’m confident will come to you. Generate the energy, just do it your that our fans will be along with us for that journey. way. What is one thing you’ve learned about What would you like to say to your fans? yourself from being in a band? I love you guys with all my heart! I’m proud of you, I think I found my purpose through being in you give me as much support as I hope, and what you Tonight Alive. It’s been told to me through sort of like say, we give to you. It’s a two way street so thank you some of my doctors and spiritual kind of teachers that for your love and your support. We’ll be here for you even more than being a performer and a songwriter and we hope you like the new record when we put it and singer, that my biggest strength it so communicate. out! I would never have known that in high school and I would never know that if I wasn’t writing lyrics, speaking Interview and Photos by: Acacia Evans on stage, going to merch and talking to our fans, and
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by sarah mcgonaglel I model: yves mathieu
"In an ever-expanding urban utopia, finding new ways to leave your mark on the world are growing increasingly difficult. Luckily, a bold new generation of tastemakers is gearing up to innovate and change the notions we have set in place of fashion and beauty. Between designers creating unique templates by which to make their clothes and the surge of popularity in body modification, our right as human beings to express our individuality grows ever more, creating an environment in which anyone- no matter your style- can look, act, or be exactly who they are."
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