BSHR Indie Music Magazine December Issue 2012

Indie Music Magazine | December 2012 Issue 5

Year End | dnE raeY 2012 in review + a glance at 2013’s most promising bands, Artists, Albums + tours

“ Breaking Big ” Bear Mountain The band chats with us about the big plans they have for 2013 and the dedication behind one of our favorite albums of the year, XO Plus a spotlight interview with Australia’s Billy Shears, a Special Gifting Guide: Gifts that Give Back, 10 Tips to Selling More Music, BSHR’s Top 50 Albums of 2012, 10 New Years Resolutions every Indie Band Should Make, + more!

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Contents AUSTIN 2013...........................................9 Gifts that Give Back.........................................28 55TH GRAMMY AWARDS......................10 Misuse of Indie Music......................................34 To Buy or Not To Buy............................16 The Biz..............................................................36 All Jingled Out ....................................17 BSHR’s Top 50 Albums of 2012......................38 Sufjan’s Twisted Christmas...................18 New Resolution: Longer Hair..........................42 I can see a future in You: Rimpau........19 Sky Curated Playlists......................................48 Kick-Ass or Let-Down 2012..................20 Sky Curated Playlists......................................49 Hey Rosetta!..........................................26 A Glimpse at 2013..........................................50

F e at u r e d Bear Mountain BSHR’s Band to Watch for in 2013

Page 12

Page 22 Billy Shears Spotlight Interview

Everybody’s looking for a blue sky Searching for an answer on a satellite I know that there’s got to be a blue sky out there to see A blue sky waiting for me

Blue Sky Lyrics by Hanson

Blue Sky + Hard Rock is. . .

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Meagan M. Jackson DESIGN DIRECTOR Tegan Storey PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Rachel Clare STYLE EDITOR Jennifer Fredrickson COLUMNISTS Trendsetter/Journalist South America, Juana Giaimo Music Critic Film + Technology, Chris Thornhill International Reporter Canada, Shannon Neeley Interactive Reporter, Amanda Izquierdo Photojournalist Midwest, Illyana Boc Videography/Photojournalist, Breanna Granzow Industry Insider/Business, Meagan M. Jackson GEAR SPECIALIST Paul Jackson AUDIO RECORDING EXPERT Wayne Short ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Paul E. Jackson SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Carolyn Lane Submit Music for Review or Schedule an Interview team@blueskyandhardrock.com Advertising Inquiries for BSHR Magazine + BSHR Online press@blueskyandhardrock.com Employment or Freelance Inquiries info@blueskyandhardrock.com BSHR Entertainment BSHR Magazine | Blue Sky Artist Services | Farewell Studios | Broadway Recording Company | MMJ Designs [Part of the Indie Connect Network] Š 2012 BSHR Ent.

Note from the Editor

Love, Blue Sky + Hard Rock

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Blue Sky Beginnings

SKY SPOTLIGHT NEWS + REVIEWS

Your Invited to

BSHR’s Giant Launch Party

+ a full week of unforgettable, unstoppable Indie Music in Austin during SXSW 2013

March 12th - 17th, 2013 Broadcasting Live All Week Long from

605 Brazos (Between 6th + 7th) | Austin TX

NEWly Announced Bands

October Ne

Editor’s Choice for Grammy Winners Album Of The Year: Blunderbuss — Jack White Record Of The Year: "Lonely Boy" — The Black Keys Best New Artist: Alabama Shakes The Lumineers Best Pop Duo/Group Performance: "Shake It Out" — Florence & The Machine Best Dance/Electronica Album: > Album Title Goes Here < — Deadmau5 Best Rock Performance: "Hold On" — Alabama Shakes "I Will Wait" — Mumford & Sons Best Rock Album: Blunderbuss — Jack White

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rammy nominees are always interesting to look at, even though it seems most in the music world don’t give the Grammys much credit. Although, what other musical awards show is there that serious non teenage fangirl music lovers can pay attention to?

Sure the Mtv awards can be fun, but that doesn’t go far for the serious music lovers. Still the Grammys leave much to be wanted. Sure, Bon Iver won two Grammys and Arcade Fire won best album, but Milli Vanilli has Grammys of their own, so there is that. Perhaps BSHR should start a music awards show someday, but for now we have the Grammys, and here is some picks from this modest writers opinion.

Best Record: Somebody I Used to know.

We all say we heard it before the next guy, but the fact is, the whole world was singing along to Gotye’s smash hit. It was number one on iTunes for so long it practically gathered dust in the number one spot.

(Nominees are Lonely Boy, Somebody I Used to Know, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Stronger, Thinkin Bout You, and We Are Young.)

Best Album: Blunderbuss, by Jack White. When the White Stripes broke up, Jack White seemed confident, and his debut solo album was not a disappointment in the slightest. The entire record has a quality that was tangible, and it feels like it is his time to shine. Tough competition is in his way however, with Grammy fodder like Babel and Channel Orange in the mix. (Nominees are El Camino, Channel Orange, Babel, Some Nights, and Blunderbuss)

Best New Artist: Fun. You can’t ignore the talent, and it is about time a band makes pop music themselves and is revered for their talent instead of their antics. Nate has a voice like no other, and the album Some Nights (and Aim & Ignite, for that matter) have enough great songs to grant them an award on the big night. (Nominees are Frank Ocean, Alabama Shakes, fun., Hunter Hayes, and They Lumineers.

My final word is I doubt any of my predictions will be right, and even if they are way off, that’s okay. There are a lot of great artists nominated, and just being nominated is a great honor. Best wishes to Frank Ocean, fun., and all of my other favorites that will be present on the big night.

ew Releases The congo’s sleeping in your head Little baby can’t stop, she just can’t find a reason For all the pieces that she needs She takes and takes til she’s got all the pieces of me And I’m still falling While your congo choir’s calling For the girl who made your weakened And all the things that she’s been feedin And for the girl who never needed All the bags that I’ve been Keepin’ She’s always too busy believin’ All the shit that she just kept in her head

lyrics from congo by bear mountain

Bear Mountain

Blue Sky’s Band to Watch Out for in 2013

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Interview by Meagan Jackson Answers by Ian Bevis

ear Mountain hails from Vancouver BC. Their incredibly enchanting electro/dance style blends syncopated bass lines and gorgeous synth chords with live instruments and these soaring vocals that are no less than “powerfully captivating”. Remarkable honesty and vulnerability can be heard unmistakably in their music.

Take a trip into the mind behind the music as Ian sits down to talk with us right and really helps tie this issue together.

+So, how did you guys come to meet and form as a band?

I started about three years ago just posting shitty songs online. I was posting GarageBand songs to Myspace and stuff, and played them for some friends. Then the first show I played was actually a solo show and it went pretty horribly really. Two weeks later I had another show and I knew I didn’t want to do it alone so I asked my buddy Kyle and he played it with me and it went really well. +How did you decide on your band name? I have a theory that in order to use “Bear” in the name you have to be amazing, or because you use it you become amazing. . .

Or cheesy maybe? haha Actually I needed a name and I was just sitting around watching snowboarding movies and this one was Bear Mountain like in California. I looked it up and there were no other bands with that name yet and I thought “really?!” +The title for your debut album XO is also an Elliot Smith title. . .

Yeah it wasn’t a conscious decision though I and obviously familiar with his work. I just think it says a lot about our generation especially. Like a love letter. I just liked it. +How did the album come to be?

It was just a bunch of laptop sngs really. We’d listen to them over and over again. We are kind of obsessive about the sound so we just worked on them until we thought they sounded right. There are a few songs we left off just because we wanted to put our best songs on it. +It’s funny you mention being obsessive with the sound I have heard that from a lot of recent bands who are putting out the best records. I guess it pays off.

Yeah just hard work and I think when it is genuine people can tell. + Absolutely... So you have a recent video for the track Two Step? How was the video made?

Kenji made it. He is our visual/tech expert. He actually doesn’t play any instruments, he sets all the visuals for the live performances too.

+He is still listed as a member of the band- so does he come to all the practices?

Yeah he is and he does he is at every practice and every show. It was important for us to portray our music visually and Kenji came to us with the video for Two Step and we were impressed so we went to see what else he could do and he showed us. We were just like “wow, okay.” +Who are your biggest musical influences?

Oh man, I listen to a little of everything. I mean in high school I listened to a lot of Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd so that and then right now I listen to a ton of dance music since that’s sort of what I am in to. But I listen to a little of everything really. +What band/artist is on your iPod that might surprise people?

Um, I don’t know! Katy Perry maybe? +If you weren't making music what would you choose as a career?

Oh, I don’t know. . . I’ve thought of that. I work for an internet company right now. +What tips would you give to bands who are just starting out?

Just really to work your ass off. Imean I say it happened fast for us but for me myself I have been at it since I was 13 so in that regard it is actually slow. You know, if you want to be a better producer then you work hard at being a better producer if you want to be a better songwriter, work hard on being a better songwriter if you want to be a better vocalist then you work on that. . .You just work your ass off at whatever you want to do.

+When will you guys tour next and where too?

Well we are playing Noise Pop 2013 and we’ll be in Southern California as well February 25th or 26th at The Echo. We are gonna do the Governer’s Ball and NXNE. +SXSW? Yeah we’ll be there too! +Sounds like we’ll be seeing you a lot in 2013! You guys have great stuff coming up. What’s next for you guys?

We hope to have a new record out by the summer, it’s a little ambitious maybe but that is what we plan to do. +I know you have to run to practice, so I’ll let you do that but thanks so much for taking the time to do this last minute it was really great.

Yeah, no problem thank you!

http://mybearmountain.com/ @mybearmountain http://soundcloud.com/bearmountain http://www.facebook.com/mybearmountain Booking: sam@windishagency.com Management: rholtzman@taorganization.com

Christmas, To Buy or Not to Buy

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By Chris Thornhill

ith the holiday season upon us, everyone seems to be indulging in the American art of consumerism. Well with all the products and music out right now, here is a helpful list to help you figure out what to get and what to say No No No to. (Yes, I went there, and I am glad I did.)

What to buy Sufjan Steven’s new Christmas compilation, Silver and Gold.

54 songs? Awesome. One free song on iTunes? Win. The other 53 for only 14.99 on iTunes? It’s a Christmas miracle!

What Not to buy An Urban Outfitters ugly Christmas sweater for 50 dollars.

I promise you, a thrifted or hand-me-down Christmas sweater will do you just fine, without hurting your wallet.

What Not to buy John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John’s What song to buy if you are Jewish new Christmas album.

“Happy Hanukkah” by Matisyahu Yes, it exists, and the cover is as uncomfortable as you would think it would be. It looks like the Christmas photo from your totally gay uncle who is in denial so he got married, loves crafts and getting massages. (Yes I went there too.)

What to buy A nice ugly Christmas sweater from Goodwill.

Hey if you don’t have a Grandma that will sew you a sweater for this Holiday season, might as well get one that was sewn by some Grandma somewhere.

Great catchy song by a very famous Jewish Rapper/singer/Reggae artist. The most famous, if I may be so bold.

What song not to buy if you are Jewish “The Chanukah song Part 3” As funny as the first one was, I think the list has gone far enough. We can put the song to rest now.

All Jingled Out: Christmas Tunes to Save Your Sanity

By Shannon Neeley

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t’s that time of year again. Everywhere you go your ears are assaulted by a resounding chorus of nonstop Christmas cheer designed to warm the cockles of your heart (whatever a cockle is). It seems that ever musical artist out there has released a Christmas album, from Miley Cyrus to Twisted Sister. Even Bob Dylan has hitched a ride on Santa’s money making sleigh.

So with no immediate escape from the generic tidings of joy pouring out the speakers at your local mall, here are some Christmas tunes that will grab those auto tuned, over produced carols by their jingle bells. At the very least they’ll make sitting through your crazy cousins stories about their cats at family gatherings a little more bearable.

Geek rockers Weezer put their unique rock n’ roll spin on some great Christmas classics on their album Christmas with Weezer. From “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” to “Silent Night” this album carries a very upbeat traditional holiday feel without over doing it. A great option to pop in while trimming the tree or wrapping presents.

If guitar-heavy riffs don’t get you in the Christmas mood, Arcade Fire’s A Very Arcade Christmas has very rustic, stripped down versions of all your holiday favourites, sung with a “lets pass around the eggnog and sing some carols” vibe. The album, which literally is the members of Arcade Fire gathered around a mic singing, might quickly become your new go-to.

For the indie music lover on your list, She & Him, A Very She & Him Christmas, features covers of “Little Saint Nick” and “I’ll be Home for Christmas”. Or wrap up The Raveonett’s Wishing you a Rave Christmas, it’ll be sure to warm the heart of any jaded hipster out there. Or if you like your carols with a slightly dark undertone, gloomy rockers Death Cab for Cutie’s “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” or The Yeah, Yeah, Yeah’s “All I Want for Christmas” might be the songs of choice for the more subdued and melancholic Christmastime listener.

Sometimes the classics beat out the trendy and if there’s one thing that is universally loved by all it’s the Muppets. Jim Henson’s crew collaborated with John Denver for a winter wonderland filled album and if that tickles your fancy, check out the Muppets’ very own in-house band Dr. Teeth & Electric Mayhem’s swinging version of “Jingle Bell Rock” on YouTube. So don’t humbug out this holiday season, there’s hope for Christmas music, yet.

Some other festive tunes to play while you’re passing around the rum balls…

Ben Caplan w/ Katzenjammer “Farytale of New York” Treelines “Little Drummer Boy” Hannah Georgas “Christmas Touch” Said The Whale “The Bones of Winter” New Pornographers “The Spirit Of Giving” Paper Moon ‘String Of Blinking Lights” The Tom Fun Orchestra “Christmas Dinner on a Coleman Stove” Julie Doiron “Heavy Snow” Hawksley Workman “Merry Christmas (I Love You)” Young and Sexy “Santa Claus Likes Rich Kids Better” Dan Bryk “Hard Candy Christmas” Hot Hot Heat “Christmas Day in the Sun” Ron Sexsmith “Maybe This Christmas” The Flashing Lights “Christmas Comes Tonight” Pointed Sticks “Power Pop Santa” The Riptides “I Can't Have a Merry Christmas” Brasstronaut “Diwali Time” Hey Rosetta! “Carry Me Home”

Sufjan’s Twisted Christmas

by Juana Giaimo

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hristmas is a very cheerful time of the year to spent with you family and friends, right? That is what we were all taught since we were little kids waiting for Santa to bring us our presents while we ate cookies and watched the snowman we did in the afternoon throughout the window –oh, no, wait in Buenos Aires we are melting since it is generally above 80° in December. But, what if Santa was a scary zombie and our cute snowman saved us by shooting him? What if in our way to get our expected gifts we found a horror movie clown and a funeral? Sufjan Stevens apparently decided that this year it was going to be a bit more tragic and bloody.

For the people who aren’t familiar with his called “Surfjohn Stevens Christmas Sing-A-Long: Christmas albums, you should know that both Seasonal Affective Disorder Yuletide Disaster consists of five volumes, one for each year- Songs Pageant on Ice”, he also added inflated unicorns For Christmas have recordings between 2001 and and, most notably, as part of the scenery, a 2008 and Silver & Gold goes from 2007 to 2011. giant wheel which he uses to choose the song This is one of the reasons why many people he is going to play next. were so excited about this new release. The change Sufjan did from the orchestral

However, he doesn’t seem to Illinois of 2005 to the chaotic The Age Of be in the mood of celebrating these Adz of 2010 is evident- let’s remember classic festivities; he thinks of it as the than in between these records he had reflection of our frustrations as he an existential crisis and he was ill of wrote in a short essay he published an unknown virus which affected his on his bandcamp: “Christmas is psychological state which determined a drag. Year after year, winter the surprising direction his music upon winter, we find ourselves took. ‘going through the motions of merriment,’ possessed by a

Silver & Gold shows fervent celestial fever, conquered, the transition from the banjo to the squandered, beaten, broken, reduced synthesizers and the autotune, having to that clammy, pre-pubescent spoiled the break point in Volume VIII, “Christmas brat kid of our childhood, throwing a fit on Infinite Voyage”. Here it is easy to identify the Santa’s lap, faced with the hard-candy facts of reality, beginnings of his experimentation with electronics, knowing for certain we will never really get what want especially on the second track, “Do You Hear What I for Christmas. Or in life, for that matter.”

Hear?”, originally by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne Baker, in which he repeats again and again the same hat is admirable of Sufjan Stevens is that melody but changing the arrangements. he is able to adapt the Christmas spirit to his own style instead of the other

Although he always had that adorable awkward way round, as most artists do, being weirdness, it is true that since Songs for Christmas ableto maintain the feelings of warmness of home his eccentricity was taken to an extreme. While in the and family love. I truly wouldn’t mind spending next tour of 2007 there were lots of inflated Santas – and December 24th dinner listening to the both tender and St. Vincent was part of his live band- in this new tour disturbing Silver & Gold.

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I can see a future in you: WRITTEN BY Juana Giaimo

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Rimpau

ou should know by now that live band members who go unnoticed at concerts can have their exciting projects too. Think of St. Vincent, who was one of the endless people playing for Sufjan Stevens in his first Christmas tour or Jessica Dobson who used to play for Beck, joined The Shins later and this year released a wonderful album with her band Deep Sea Diver. I wrote some months ago about collaborations and the new exiting supergroup consisting of Spoon’s Britt Daniel, Wolf Parade’s Dan Boeckner and Sam Brown from New Bomb Turks, called Divine Fits. But most recently I found out that Alex Fischel, their keyboard player is also the man whose rough voice characterizes Rimpau; a Los Angeles based band that have one outstanding self-titled EP out.

If I had to describe their music in a very simple way, I think the right word would be bumpy. In these five tracks that form this stunning debut EP releasd in 2011, there is a combination of luminous feelings with desolate ones. Just by hearing the first piano chords of the opening track, “All I Wanna Do”, it allows your mind to consider a wide range of possibilities of what those first seconds might develop into, until Alex’s voice ends that harmony with his sincere tone. It’s the kind of vocals that aims right to the listener making it inevitable to avoid its enclosed feelings. It can sound joyful and unworried as he mumbles “do do do” at the end of “What Should Come” while the piano and the guitars help to increase the play and mess around.

Things then gets a little bit down in, what is for me, one of the highlights of the EP: “Thunder”. It indeed sounds as a storm that slowly starts to grow. It begins with a lonely piano joined by a delicate guitar and a tremulous voice. It slowly builds up until it explodes and it deepens you into trembling textures until it mostly breaks down into a nostalgic and straightforward phrase: “and I hope to know somebody like I used to”.

What unifies all these tracks is its rhythm, not only for the percussions, but all the music helps to increase this unstable sensation as if what follows is always unknown.. Rimpau showed in this EP that their bipolar energy can be extremely enjoyable and fluent, making them to differentiate from other Rock bands of the moment.

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ickass or etdown 2012

By Amanda Izquierdo

Get out of your bomb shelter, take off that hazard suit, and put away that weapon you made for the zombie apocalypse.

If you are reading this, you have lived the end of the world/ antichrist/Mayan calendar shortage nonsense! Awesome!

Therefore we can take a look at some albums reviews that came out this year. Albums you’ll sigh at and albums that have made an addition to your music library.

I’ll start us off. Islands, VCR, and Basic Space are a few songs that were hits that came off their first album, xx. Now with this new album Coexist, I feel like they toned it down a notch for some reason. The tapping of my foot and the nodding of my head slowed their roll listening to this album. Yet just like The xx they don’t disappoint with their lyrics. Their lyrics will find a way to hit you in feelings, for me my favorites are Chained and Try.

Hope you guys enjoy! Make sure to keep a look out for preorders of albums and shows for 2013.

Happy Holidays friends, Amanda Izquierdo “I thought Mac DeMarco’s 2 album was nothing short of amazing. When my friend first introduced me to the album, I thought I wasn’t going to like it. I mean, Mac DeMarco’s appearance on the album is nothing short of awkward and it kinda put me off, but I still gave it a chance. I was hooked when I heard Ode To Viceroy, but my favorite track on the album was definitely My Kind of Woman. The hazy and almost lazy way he sings accompanied by the simple and tangy sound of the guitar was just great. I felt like each song is kind of personal.”

Lola, 19, Florida “There’s a Canadian band RAMONA that released and EP and the best single, Dirty Little Secret. I can’t get that song out of my head, its perf. Plus they are three really great guys and they sent me some merch, so now I’m wearing their t-shirt on my show.”

Tucky, 27, Kentucky “Crystal Castles’s album III wasn’t what I was expecting.

It seemed to take their experimental sound in a completely different direction that was foreign.”

Michael, 20, Florida “Grizzly Bear latest album, Shield, was released September of this year. It was beautifully created, they kept their organic, smooth feel and added a hint of folk, jazz, classical rock and experimental electronic to their new album.

That’s why it was called by critics: their first truly balanced album, a masterfully executed evolution. It depicts nostalgia and loneliness but not in a depressing manner, it’s more of a clear layout of feelings and emotions from someone who is getting used to the idea of being alone. I recommend the songs Speak in Rounds, A Simple Answer and my favorite Gun-shy.”

Kiki, 23, Florida

“I’m very disappointed with the new album Mumford and Sons just released. I don’t know, I fell completely in love with Sigh No More and the tone they had. Now with Babel, not saying that it was bad because I still quite enjoy it, but it just sounds different. I guess that’s something I have to get used to. Not all artists keep the same sound all their careers. BUT overall I was expecting more. And I was just slightly let down.”

Marielle, 19, Texas “I like Lana del Rey…I feel she’s able to make you feel nostalgic even about things you never experienced.

Her songs are about happy moments from the past. I think that’s what creates nostalgia. We miss those good times. Her songs also have this cinematic/soundtrack feel to them. If I had to choose a soundtrack this year, it would be her album. She also has these haunting melodies that refuse to leave your head as soon as you hear them.”

Rodrigo, 23, California

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potify is the first music client that comes to mind when you ask nearly anyone, and for good reason. The settings and songs and simple interface make it an obvious choice for anyone at all, really. One feature is the ability to subscribe to a user’s playlist, and listen to it whenever you’d like. Whenever the creator edits the playlist, you will be notified and the playlist will change. If you are a premium user, you get the mobile app on your smartphone, as well as no ads and of course the computer version of Spotify as well. On my iPhone, I recently downloaded an app to be used with Spotify, called “Tunigo,” and it has instantly become a staple music app for me.

With the ability to find playlists for me to subscribe to or just listen to based on the setting and style I prefer, it has basically become a way to shuffle my favorites along with new songs I may or may not have heard. When I want to read a book and listen to new music, I just click “Chill,” and find a smooth playlist for me to put in the background as I lay down and get comfortable. The app has the user showing, as well as playlists for working out, going out, or going to bed. It’s free in the app store, and if you have a Premium Spotify playlist, check Tunigo out. You’ll be glad you did.

IDEA: Give the gift of Music this holiday season and purchase a

Spotify Premium account for yourself or a friend. Not only will you get an excellent and essential music service, but you will avoid some holiday-shopping related stress + help support the recording industry.

By Meagan Jackson

Billy Shears

The Interview Please briefly introduce yourself/what you do/where you are based.

My name is Billy Shears. I write songs and I play guitar and sing. At the moment I’m based in Melbourne Australia. I spent some time living in Sydney Australia and I’ve spent a bit of time hovering through America, where I’ll soon be returning

+What made you decide to work as a solo artist?

It’s not a vanity exercise, it’s far from that, but it’s very self-involved. Not that I would be opposed to working with other people on this project, but the essence of it requires complete freedom for myself to do what I want to do with it. That’s the dominant thing about Billy Shears as opposed to other bands I’ve been in, this is completely and utterly focused on my vision and my ideas and the emotions I want to express. +How did you decide on your solo moniker? What does it mean?

My name is in fact Billy. I don’t like to give away secrets but ‘Shears’ is not the name I was born with. The reason for choosing the name, there’s a few. It’s a Beatles reference, that’s not to be denied. This is a story I’ve been telling: on Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band Paul introduces “the one and only Billy Shears” then Ringo Starr sings a song. Prior to doing ‘Billy Shears’ I’d been in bands for many years but I wasn’t the singer. Ringo Starr is not the member of the Beatles that usually sings. Also there’s the idea of the ‘one and only’ and this is rooted in my solitary vision, shall we say. +What can listeners expect to get from listening to your music?

It’s guttural, it’s from the guts. I’m not sure that it’s visceral. It’s not the sound of fragility but it’s certainly composed of vulnerability. I hope that it can communicate a sense of freedom and almost a sense of audacity, but more that– without sounding cheesy –it’s encouraging. It’s obviously marked by vulnerability, but the music is the act of overcoming. +What can people expect to experience at your live shows?

Maybe on record it sounds a bit jarring or even an exclusive forum for myself, but live I think I can assert what I do. I try to keep the live show fun, but I also I think playing live is a fantastic opportunity for the

audience to witness the artist totally engrossed in their music, which can then engender a similar feeling in those who are watching. So, really, I hope that people start to feel like me. No, that’s not it.. +Who are your biggest musical influences?

This is never a conscious thought when I’m writing songs, but it sounds like the obvious answer: I learnt so much from Bob Dylan. His fearlessness and also his never-ending inquiry, the way that he travels with songs and continues to travel with songs. Other musical influences, contemporary bands, I really like Girls. I’ve seen some fantastic shows by Radiohead and Tame Impala recently that influence me to do music, but wouldn’t have a conscious influence on the music I make. The influence registers in the motivation and the reminder that music can lift you to a state above anything else. Then, I really like The Beatles, Neil Young, Fiona Apple +Anyone “upcoming” that you are really into?

I’m into alot of ‘upcoming’ bands in Australia. There’s a great reckless garage blues band called King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, who I saw live a few months ago and they were incredible. Another great band called Cabins, who have a darker, outlaw twang.

They aren’t really ‘upcoming’ but they have an upcoming release – Unknown Mortal Orchestra. The main individual behind the band is a New Zealander who moved to Portland, Oregon. His old band The Mint Chicks were one of my favourite bands when I was a teenager. Unknown Mortal Orchestra are great, they’re amazing. Really cool lo-fi sounds, but it doesn’t sound cheap, it sounds warm, it sounds inventive. +What band/artist is on your iPod that you may have to explain or defend, or that might surprise us?

The idea of disparate music tastes is not as prevalent as it once was, because everyone shares music.

There used to be a divide, I think, between people who were into rock/pop music and people who were into rap music. I don’t know if it would be a surprise to anyone that I have rap music, Kanye, A Tribe Called Quest, Outkast, on my ipod. I doubt it. You could almost say what I do is more like rap, if you’re going to be technical about melody. +If you were allowed to place one album besides your own in a time capsule what would it be?

I’m going to have to take Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 revisited. Although, I’ve never heard a remaster of the album and I’ve only heard it on CD. I’d love to hear it on vinyl and I know there are remasters of all Dylan’s material. You’d think as someone who spends his life devoted to Dylan I would’ve sought them out, but I’ve got the CD master from the 80s. I mean, that’s the Dylan sound I was introduced to, it’s the Dylan sound I know. It is very tinny, but it complements it. I would like to hear it with a bit more body so maybe when I put it in the time capsule I’ll procure the remaster. Maybe I can get a two-disc with the two different masters. +Where can your fans best connect with you online and where can they buy/hear your music?

You can find all of my thus far released music at billyshearsmusic.bandcamp.com. You can download a series of EPs I’ve done over the last twelve months for free. I’m on the facebook and always willing to talk to someone. Although, only if it’s temporary, not looking to talk to people for too long.. +What is the hardest thing about being in a band these days?

There’s so many good bands and musicians. It’s not a bad thing and it’s not a competition and it’s not something that I’d want to change. It’s just that occasionally the feeling hits you ‘is anyone going to pay

attention to my music and if they do will it last longer than 10 seconds,’ because there is so much good music. But it’s a very infrequent thing because the importance of my music is self-validating.

The fact that I’m doing it means it should be done. +What do you love the most about what you do?

I’d say I love writing songs and sometimes it is a really special, intuitive, immediate experience and ideas and thoughts show up that you didn’t know you had and you accidentally fall into this new perspective on something. But then sometimes song-writing is tough and you can spend the whole procedure in self-doubt. Or it can be sort of like primal scream therapy; you can be tearing yourself apart. I mean, it’s a good thing, but it’s hard to remember at those times that you will be happy with what you achieve once you persevere through that process.

I like when I’m on a roll with writing lyrics. I also like sitting down and making the statements more pointed, or giving it little tweaks so that, if anyone’s going to attempt an interpretation, it could elicit multifarious streams of thought.

When you’re in the zone playing live, or anywhere - I think when you go into the zone for real it doesn’t matter where you are – but that’s just about the greatest feeling I know. +What tips would you give to bands who are just starting out?

I think the best thing to do is not worry about it and don’t be deadest on a certain avenue to success. Don’t get caught up with the cause, so to speak, in chasing your goals. Try to make the goals happen simultaneously with the progression as a band or a musician. And never do it if it feels forced, if you feel like you have to do it or you’re doing as a means to an end. I think it should be an end in itself, playing music. +When will you be touring next and in what regions?

I’m coming back for an American tour in late February 2013. I’ll be doing some shows in San Francisco then commencing a tour, courtesy of Blue Sky and Hard Rock, in Los Angeles on March 2. The focal point of the tour is SXSW where I’ll be playing a number of the parties hosted by BSHR, and from there the tour continues East. All of those dates will be announced soon. I’ll be in America for a few months before heading to the UK, so I’ll potentially spend the majority of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. +Anything new you would like share?

I will have a new EP/ mini-album that I’ll be showcasing while I’m there. I’ve got some songs that I feel are truer, or more forceful, representations of the Billy Shears ethos. I’m now able to more competently and confidently express and project the feeling that catalysed this endeavour, so it should make more of a palatable, or comprehensible, impact.

shannon neeley on

Hey Rosetta!

It’s the time of year when you find your ears being assaulted with a resounding chorus of holiday music no matter where you go. But before you start humbugging you’ll be happy to know that there is an alternative to all the cheesy tunes that are blasting from the mall’s speakers.

Hey Rosetta! are following in the footsteps of fellow Canadians Arcade Fire and putting out their own Holiday EP, A Cup of Kindness Yet. This highly acclaimed 6-piece from Newfoundland has been racking up awards and international attention since they first broke out on the Canadian indie rock scene in 2005. It may seem odd at first to think of Hey Rosetta! throwing their name into the over-spilling, tapped out market of holiday music, but the guys have put together a high quality and charming EP.

The first single is the mellow rock jingle “Carry Me Home”.

Hey Rosetta! frontman and songwriter Tim Baker wrote the track while on tour in the very un-stereotypically Canadian holiday setting of Australia. “Carry Me Home” is an original composition from the band that speaks to the larger emotions that seem to surround us around this time of year. Told through a unique perspective, Baker’s lyrics cut to the core, making you yearn to be back in the comfort of loved ones around the holiday season.

Hey Rosetta! find themselves on the road for a larger portion of the year and, according to Baker, this longing to be in the arms of those we love is the same fundamental emotional pull that they experience while on tour. It is “a deep visceral thing we can relate to whenever and wherever we are on the road”. The songs and lyrics that fill the EP lean more toward the traditional, but at its heart the core message of the EP reaches out with a very nondenominational voice. Hey Rosetta! are staying true to their roots, but fans can appreciate the beautifully arranged songs and their messages on many levels.

The EP also contains an intriguingly morose version of “O Come O Come Emmanuel”, that will be sure to warm the heart of any Grinch. Baker’s voice rings out in a boisterously

festive “Auld Lang Syne”, the celebratory “New Year Song” and a beautifully layered take on “The First Snow”. The stigmas attached to holiday music are something that is of particular interest to Baker, who adds that there will almost certainly be additional holiday-themed releases from Hey Rosetta!

Baker has made his fascination clear saying, “I don’t think I’m done with the challenge of writing a song about Christmas without it being all fake plastic cheesy yule log happiness or for that matter all angry anti-establishment protest, but something in the middle, like the real thing, like sitting by the tree, mildly hungover, staring at a pile of gift-wrapped overconsumption, and feeling overfilled, with dinner and love and mythic joy.” Deciding to take on the challenge of putting out a holiday album is a big undertaking for any artist, but to comprise an EP mostly of original tunes is truly a festive feat.

Hey Rosetta! have also put out an accompanying video for the lead single “Carry Me Home”. The video, which was directed

by Noah Pink, documents the band’s life on the road and shows how their travels are intertwined with the nostalgia and heavy calling of home. Even if you are usually averse

to holiday music Hey Rosetta! have managed to keep things from crossing into the tacky territory and have kept their moody indie rock signature sound the focal point on the EP. You definitely don’t need to be putting up garland and kicking back eggnog to enjoy A Cup of Kindness Yet.

The EP is available now as a digital release, but for those looking to pad their vinyl collection with some seasonally appropriate additions Hey Rosetta! have just released A Cup of Kindness Yet on vinyl.

Looking to keep the holiday spirit alive Hey Rosetta! are sending a little present their fans way. Hey Rosetta! is offering a free download of “Carry Me Home” for those looking for a taste of what A Cup of Kindness Yet Has to offer. For more info and to download the single check out www.heyrosetta.com.

Hey Rosetta! will also be putting on their famous yearly holiday show with guest Plants and Animals on December 20th in St. John’s Newfoundland. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area. Otherwise you may want to do your friends and family a favour and stuff their stockings with some Hey Rosetta! holiday goodness.

Gif ts that Give B ac k WRITTEN BY M. Jackson Lomography La Sardina Marathon Camera Gives to the Cause of Your Choice For Those Big-Ticket Items: BiddingforGood.com + eBayGivingWorks.com. Each purchase benefits the auctioneer’s charity of choice. Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Try GoodSearch. com any day of the year!

Next Page, clockwise from top left Fotolanthropy tells real stories of real people through film. Their sister is Fotostrap + a portion of the proceeds go towards helping make the films & helping families in need. • TOMS Shoes For every pair of shoes purchased a pair is given to a child who would otherwise be barefoot.• Kuna Kicks are handmade by artisans in Panama & support the Global Village Initiative. • Krochet Kids • Buy shoes and send girls in Uganda to school.ssekodesigns.com • iTunes (RED) Gift Card • TOMS

Kauzbots make Plush Toys and Apparel Supporting Causes like Autism Awareness . Of the left is Kalvin the Kauzbot who benefits the aid of Homeless Childred.

31 Bits “Over the last four years, 31 Bits has grown to working with 110 women in Northern Uganda to help them outof poverty by selling these incredible hand-made paper beaded pieces.

Next Page clockwise from top left For ever comforter you buy from The Company Store, it will donate one to a homeless child • The Not for Sale store generates enterprise & employment to prevent human trafficking and create new futures for survivors. • • (RED) Skateboard benefit the global fight against AIDS • Shemergency Survival Kit by Ms. & Mrs. is full of immediate solutions to save the day + helps raise awareness for breast cancer. • St. Jude Golf Balls 100% of proceeds to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. • This limited edition, cobalt blue SKYY Vodka bottle supports the fight against AIDS • Belvedere vodka - 50% of sales goes towards the Global Fund for the same cause • FHI’s Hairdryer sales benefit breast cancer research! fhiheat.com •LSTN Heatphones are like TOMS for hearing. Each paid sold means advanced hearing aids go to someone in need • (RED) Converse benefits AIDS Research • Warby Parker Glasses gives someone in need a paid of glasses with each purchase.

Falling Whistle raises funds and awareness of the plight of people in Congo Africa. Especially women and children. 100% of each necklace goes to rehabilitation efforts in the area.

Laughing Man Tea Hugh Jackman’s coffee brand, The Laughing Man gives 100 percent of its profits to charity.

gifts that give back

Stocking Stuffers For every bracelet you buy, Jatalo donates a textbook to a child in need. Pangea Organics’ gift packages come in a stylish recycled box inlaid with spruce seeds—soak them, plant—and in two weeks a baby Spruce tree will appear. Lush’s lotion is made with fair-trade cocoa-butter, and 100 percent of proceeds go to the organization featured on the lid of each pot. WaterCan, TreePeople, Amazon Conservation Team and International Fund for Animal Welfare are only a few available at LushUSA.com.

With its built-in filter, this BPA-free and spill-proof bottle delivers great-tasting water + reminds us more than a billion people around the world don’t have safe drinking water. That’s why $10 from every purchase directly supports Water.org. theBalm offers vegan lip treatments that benefit Pug Rescue, which helps abused dogs.

Sandy Necklace: “Build up the Giving” | For every purchase of a Project 7 product, good is done in seven areas of need – Feed the Hungry, Heal the Sick, Hope for Peace, House the Homeless, Quench the Thirsty, Teach them Well and Save the Earth.

The Misuse of Indie Music

WRITTEN BY: Juana Giaimo

Last Summer

The Black Keys and producer Brian Burton, aka, Danger Mouse, sued Pizza Hut and Home Depot Inc., for the unauthorized use of the tracks “Gold on the Ceiling” and “Lonely Boy” respectively, in their commercials. Both are taken from their latest album, El Camino, released last year, which continued the Rock duo’s popularity after their highly acclaimed record Brothers, of 2010. After having denied copying them, they have recently come to a settlement agreement, which isn’t yet specified.

There are several similar cases in the Indie scene, probably because artists aren’t popular enough for people to realize it. Earlier this year, Volkswagen put out a commercial with an extremely similar tune to Beach House’s Take Care, from their 2010 record, Teen Dream. They even dare to imitate Victoria Legrand’s peculiar and manly voice.

The band later reported that they had refused the offer that the car company had been doing to them for four weeks. I don’t think the resemblances were just a coincidence! Other known misuses, were the cases of Two Weeks by Grizzly Bear in a Troy University ad and LCD Soundsystem’s Daft Punk IS Playing at My House in a TGI Fridays commercial. And these are just a few examples.

S

Rós got so fed up of being ripped off that they made a blog post two years ago reporting that “they have never allowed their music to be used to sell anything”, though they did license it for films and TV shows. This statement was followed a by an endless list of examples that they found from all around the world, from Chile to China, which used strongly similar melodies to the ones of the Icelandic group, specially of their most popular song, the unique “Hoppípolla”. igur

It is hard to believe that companies still do this, when it is evident for anyone who knows the artist that it is definitely not original. I guess I don’t know enough about advertising, but I often think that it would be easier for them to ask for songs to an artist which isn’t against sharing them for promoting their products.

In times that give "Starving Artists" a whole new meaning, are brands taking advantage of Indie Artists + disregarding their [copy]rights?

The Biz

ook ng You a L i v i G s c i h Infograp c Industry i s u M e h t Into

New Years Resolutions for Bands 1. Follow up with promoters/buyers who book you by sending a thank-you email a few days after the show. They’ll be more likely to book you again + it’s just nice!

2. Carry your own gear to load-in and out.

Seriously Why not?!

3. Thank your sound guy! He probably doesn’t hear it enough and he is an essential part of your gigs.

4. Stop for fans for as long as you can. There’s something really special about sticking around for every last sweaty hug.

5. Do every bit of press you are offered- it’s all a tiny bit productive and makes you at least one fan (in the journalist) and could make or break you many more, not to mention the contacts you may be slaughtering wih your ego.

6. For heavens sake, don’t take yourself too seriously! Laugh at the set backs and learn from them.

7. On the other hand don’t take yourself too lighly and party in rockstar fashion constantly (overkill).

Take care of your voice and your health so you can stay on top of your game.

8. PLEASE Don’t “PAY TO PLAY”! Just because you are an indie artist doesn’t mean you work for free + definitely shouldn’t have to pay for it.

9. Band together. . . with other bands! Crossmarket and support eachother. There’s enough competition in the industry as it is. We need to come together in love and music.

10. Set one goal that you’ve had in the back of your mind this year but thought was too crazy/ unobtainable. Make a plan of action to attack it bit by bit throughout the year as needed. Prove it to yourself that nothing is impossible.

How to Sell More Music

2012 Blue Sky + Hard Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Best Albums of

Bloc Party, Four

Garbage

Funeral Suits Lily of the Valley

Japandroids Celebration Rock

Not Your Kind of People

Jack White Blunderbuss

Grizzly Bear Sheilds

Greate Lake Swimmers New Wild Everywhere

Bear Hands, Songs from Utopia Vol. 1

The xx, Coexist

Muse, The 2nd Law

Chairlift, Sidewalk Safari

King Tuff

Deftones, Koi No Yokan

Smashing Pumpkins, Oceania

Dry The River, Shallow Bed

Beach House, Bloom

Of Montreal, Paralytic Stalks

Lana Del Rey, Born to Die

The Shins, Port of Morrow

Alabama Shakes, Boys and Girls

Titus Andronicus Local Busines

Kishi Bashi 151a

Django Django

Saint

Motel

Alex Winston, King Con

Cloud Nothings Attack On Memory

Silversun Pickups Neck of the Woods

Now, Now, Threads

Passion Pit, Gossamer

Father John Misty, Fear Fun

The Lumineers

California Wives, Art History

Grimes, Visions

Bear Mountain, XO

Mumford and Sons, Babel

Baroness, Yellow and Green

JEFF the Brotherhood Hypnotic Nights

Band of Horses Mirage Rock

Dr. Dog, Be the Void

Of Monsters and Men My Head is an Animal Exitmusic, Passage

Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Allelujah! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Bend! Ascend!

DIIV Oshin Reptar, Body Faucet

Taken by Trees, Other Worlds Oberhofer, Time Capsul II

Divine FitsA Thing Calle Divine Fits

Pierce the Veil, Collide with the Sky

The Vaccines Come of Age

PS I Love You, Death Dreams

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Here

40 | Blue Sky + Hard Rock Indie Music Magazine

A New resolution WRITTEN BY Jennifer Fredrickson

Help!

Longer Stronger Hair in 9 Steps

My hair won't grow!!! I've tried EVERYTHING.

I hear this daily in the salon. If your resolution is to have longer, stronger locks by 2014, here's your survival guide.

O

k, there is no easy solution to this problem. As someone in the same predicament, I understand your pain. There are lots of urban legends, brush your hair 100 times a day, take pre-natal vitamins, use beer for shampoo and mayonnaise for conditioner (I tried this in high school, first of all it doesn't work, second you smell like a rotten bar when you're done) and whatever else you can think of.

But here's the scoop. The average person's hair grows half an inch to an inch a month. Period.

1.) Vitamin supplements like Biotin and honestly taking a multivitamin really do help. The healthier you are the healthier your hair will be. If your body is lacking nourishment, your hair won't grow long and strong. So eat healthy and get lots of fruits and vegetables! And add some exercise to your routine. The healthier the body, the healthier the hair.

2.) Take care of what you've got! Yes this sometimes means springing for an "expensive" shampoo and conditioner. Yes! You too need a deep conditioner. Consider it an investment in your future and having your dream hair. Use salon grade products and only buy from a salon/beauty supply since the professional grade products are only guaranteed to be authentic from an authorized retailer. Besides, food product is cheaper than extensions.

3.) Take your hair down! Believe it or not, over time wearing your hair back in ponytails and buns break your hair. Here's the really scary thing....it also can cause your hairline to recede. The tension on the hairline can cause permanent hair loss. If you must tie your hair back, use cloth scrunchies (think the 80's) and no-breakage bands that don't have metal or hard plastics.

4.) Banish the heat. I'm a heat addict too so I know it's hard. But lay down the flat iron and put away the curling irons. Have your hairdresser teach you to blowdry your own hair to a nice smooth style and when you can go au naturale. If you absolutely must use heat, always use a thermal protectant to keep those strands safe from burning.

5.) Pick a color. This is my biggest struggle, but pick a color and stick with it. The constant lightening, darkening and coloring will damage your hair over time. Maintaining your color won't cause repetitive damage but constantly overhauling your hair, especially with lots of lightener, will wreak

havoc on the integrity of the hair.

Opt for Demi-permenant, glazes or glosses whenever you can. And talk to your stylist about looks that use color to lighten your hair instead of lighteners or bleaches.

Most of all, put down the box color. To get those great colors every time box colors from the drug stores use higher ammonia, higher developers and other chemicals. In other words, it causes more damage.

6.) Schedule frequent cuts. Ok, we stylists get it. The thought that if you're constantly cutting off your ends it will never grow, so let me try to explain it to you. Once the hair shaft splits (eg. Split ends) it will continue to split all the way up the hair shaft. Applying heat, chlorine and other chemicals only speed the process up. If you don't cut the damage off immediately, the farther, and faster, the hair shaft damages.

Meaning I have to cut more when you finally sit in my chair.

But your hair grows 1/2" a month and you're trimming 1/4" every 8 weeks you're gaining 3/4" every time you cut from your previous cut. That's almost 6" a year! And that's if your hair grows absurdly slow.

7.) Watch your vices. This will be hard for some of you I know. But beauty is sacrifice and pain.

Smoking, even if it "just weed" dries out your hair and makes it more prone to damage. Think of your hair as a sponge that also absorbs smoke, environmental toxins as well as conditioners, oils and whatever else it comes in contact with. If your hair has absorbed a ton of smoke it prevents your hair from absorbing conditioners and the nutrients it needs.

Drinking, I know, it sounds like I'm preaching. But it does dehydrate the body and keeps your body from absorbing vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair growth. I'm not saying never drink again!

However, watch how often and how much you drink if you want long healthy hair.

8.) Scalp massages! I picked this trick up from some of my Indian clients. Women from India have the greatest hair in the world. It's why extensions made from Indian hair are so expensive. They have some simple rules from their hair, no color unless they are covering greys, very little heat, high quality and naturally derived hair products and a scalp massage deep conditioner once a week. My clients swear that if you spend 20 minutes once a week with coconut milk conditioner in your hair doing a scalp massage it will help your hair.

On a scientific level this makes sense. The heat of your hands will allow your hair to absorb more of the coconut oil. Stimulating your scalp will do two things. First it exfoliates the pores creating a better environment for hair to grow. Secondly, it will stimulate your circulation and blood flow to the scalp delivering more vitamins and nutrients to your hair.

9.) If all else fails, extensions make it easier and more bearable to grow your hair out. There are different versions for every budget, from tracks and weaves, clip-ins to fusions. Extensions take away the temptation of heat styling your own hair because you're styling the extensions as well as give you the instant satisfaction of having long hair. Just don't forget to wash, condition and care for them!

A Playlist for the New Year by Juana 1. The New Year – Death Cab For Cutie 2. End of the World - Ingrid Michaelson 3. Ready To Start – Arcade Fire 4. New Year – Beach House 5. Met Before - Chairlift 6. Go Do – Jónsi 7. Don’t Look Back- She & Him 8. Europe – Allo’ Darlin 9. 1234 - Feist 10. Bend Beyond – Woods 11. End of a Century –Blur 12. Happy New Year – Camera Obscura 13. Just The Same But Brand New – St. Vincent

An Apocalyptic Playlist

by Jenn

Everyone is talking about the end of the world right now. Whether you believe the Mayan's were prophesying that the world ends on December 21, 2012 or think that anyone believing that hype is a moron, we're all still talking about it. So here's my musical take on the Apocalypse: 5 Songs I will listen to on repeat until the world ends: 1) End Of The World by REM Obvious choice for the end of the world. But it makes me want to drink goblets of wine and sit on a roof staring at the sun and the world falls apart.

2) Jesus is Coming-- Look Busy by Divide the Day. Obscure band choice, and obscure song choice from the band but still amazing. Plus it should resonate with those people who believe Jesus is coming back and the Y2K preppers.

3) Mad World cover by Adam Lambert Just an amazing voice with an amazing song. It's the song I can listen to on repeat, end of the world or not.

4) Life Will Go On by Chris Isaak In case the Mayan's were wrong and the sun rises tomorrow. Gotta keep some faith that life will go on no matter what happens.

5) The Good Left Undone by Rise Against Because its my favorite song of all time. It was the song I wanted to play at my wedding. But mostly because, "I believe in angels, not the kind with wings, no not the kind with halos. The kind that bring you home, when home becomes a strange place, I follow your voice, all you have to do is shout it out."

Songs that Should Die with 2012

By Jenn Lets face it, with the end of the world there are many songs I wish to God would go die a long slow death for the torture they have been to me. These are my 5 songs I wish would go die already.

1) Call Me, Maybe by Carly Rae Jepson It's a song I love to hate and loathe to love. It's catchy and sing along style that gets stuck in my head for days at a time. I hate the message, if i give a guy my number, he'd better call me. However the YouTube video of chatroulette version is amazing.

2) Gangnam Style by PSY Proof that video killed the radio star. Sure, it was a funny video but not enough to ruin my life with its constant repeat.

3) Somebody That I Used To Know by I loved this song when it came out. It was sweet, resonate and reminded me of every ex boyfriend I've ever had. Now that it's been overplayed to oblivion I wish we could retire it. That and the "dubstep remix" sounds the exact same as the original.

4) Black and Yellow by Really? How did this become popular? It says the same thing over and over and over. People, please! Some discretion when you choose music to love.

5) Never Getting Back Together by Taylor Swift Taylor, I'd be more inclined to believe you're never getting back together if you'd stop writing songs about whichever ex "broke your heart" this week.

A Glimpse into The Future 2013’s Most Promising Music 1 Bear Hand’s told BSHR in October that they would have a release new music in 2013 (keep your ears open in the Spring) 1 Yeah Yeah Yeah’s just announces that they too will have a new album in 2013. It is the follow up to 2009’s It’s Blitz!

1

Villagers – ‘Awayland’

1

Arcade Fire’s new CD is due out in 2013

1 New Album from My Bloody Valentine is “almost complete” according to the band’s bassist

Depeche Mode has announced to release a new album and an extensive world tour next year 2013.

Cat Power Returns in 2013 With North American Tour Dates Alabama Shakes on Tour Nick Cave + The Bad Seeds hit the road Mumford + Sons will also tour in 2013 Fleetwood Mac Reunites for their highly anticipated tour.

Dutch Uncles announce new single and 2013 tour plans

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has officially announced next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inductees: Rush, Public Enemy, Heart, Randy Newman, Donna Summer and Albert King

- W e Sup p o rt -

☮♥♪ www.indierockcafe.com www.jawbone.com www.chartattack.com www.becomeyourdrum.com www.yourstru.ly www.themusicninja.com www.earmilk.com www.TheFourOhFive.com ----www.theopenfeel.com www.bearhandsband.com www.countlessthousands.com www.thesleepingseaking.com www.mattandkimmusic.com www.takenbytrees.com www.tillyandthewall.com www.drugcabin.com ----Beta Wolf Billy Shears Black Zenith Clap Your Hands Say Yeah Class Actress Ceasefire CSS Daniel Hart darwin deez Dead Man’s Bones Deep Sea Diver Delta Spirit deVah String Quartet Devendra Banhart Discovery Divine Fits DOE EYE Dr. Dog Ed Tullett Edward Sharpe

EVE 6 Eye the Realist Freelance Whales GIVERS Glasvegas Graffiiti6 the grey area (dc.)

Grimes Grizzly Bear GROUPLOVE Hesta Prynn HOODIE ALLEN JAPANDROIDS JAPANTHER JEFF the Brotherhood Late Of The Pier Little Boots Little Dragon little hurricane LP Lykke Li Margot & the Nuclear So and So’s

Neon Indian New Young Pony Club OK Go Okkervil River Old Crow Medicine Show Other Lives Passion Pit Patrick Wolf Phantogram Polarsets Priory RAC Real Estate Reptar ROYAL THUNDER Say Hi Shpy St. Vincent Tegan and Sara

The Big Pink The Cinema The Civil Wars The Decemberists The Drums The Funeral Suits the GROWLERS The Joy Formidable The Kills The Limousines The Maccabees the Mountain Goats The Naked And Famous The Peach Kings The Rapture The Royalty The Ting Tings Torches music Trevor Hall Trish Hosein Tubelord tune-yards Tyrone Wells Warner Drive Water Tower WAVVES We Were Promised Jetpacks WICKER Wild Child WILD FLAG Wild Nothing Work Drugs YACHT Yeasayer Yelle Young Magic Young the Giant Youth Lagoon Yuck

+ You.

A Blue Sky + Hard Rock Publication Visit us online @ blueskyandhardrock.com Or Socially @ Facebook.com/BlueSkyHardRock + Twitter.com/BlueSkyMusicEnt For other Social Links go to blueskyandhardrock.com/social For Artist Serives + Business Matters, please see blueskyandhardrockentertainment.info