CVSW April 2013

APRIL Issue

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THE Custom Lifestyle Magazine for Car, Motorcycle, and Music Enthusiasts www.CVNorthWestMagazine.com

Las Vegas Nightlife Marina Lopez Centerfold

Cover Photo by Mark Weiss

From the Desk of the Pres This is a MOMENTOUS occasion in the life of the CV family. Welcome to the INAUGURAL issue of CV SouthWest Magazine.

For those of you who might not know, “CV” stands for “Consuetudo Vitae”, which is a latin phrase for “custom lifestyle”. We named our company and our publication CV because we dedicate ourselves to highlighting and supporting those who life their “custom life”. Owners of custom motorcycles, custom cars, and those who rock the local music scene.

CV SouthWest will support local businesses, showcase custom vehicles, and do our best to bring you an in-depth view and access to the LOCAL music scene, which is the lifeblood of the Vegas night life.

This month we highlight one of the hottest local bands, Outta the Black. The boys have been rocking Vamp’d and Vegas for a long time, it’s appropriate that we give them their due. We also sit down with Australian rock goddess Laura Wilde, highlight the artwork work of Drumiture, give you car maintenance tips, and keep track of Sin City with Kevin L and Las Vegas Nightlife Photos.

ENJOY!

Cover (by Henn) Rock Calendar

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Outta the Black

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Centerfold: Marina Lopez

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Drumiture

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Laura Wilde

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5 Repairs you can do

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Las Vegas Nightlife Photos

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Chris CV Northwest Magazine

Locally Owned / Nationally Known

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CV NORTHWEST MAGAZINE © 2012-13 is published monthly and NO reproduction of content is permitted without Publisher’s prior approval. Publisher assumes no financial responsibility for the errors in ads beyond the cost of space occupied by error; a correction will be printed. Publisher is not liable for: any slandering of an individual, or group as we mean no malice or individual criticism at any time; nor are we responsible for the opinions or comments of our columnists; and promises, coupons, or lack of fulfillment from advertisers who are solely responsible for the content of their ads. Publisher is also to be held harmless from: failure to produce any issue as scheduled due to reasons beyond control; all suits, claims or loss of expenses; this includes but is not limited to, suits for libel, plagiarism, copyright infringement and unauthorized use of a persons name or photograph.

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Band

Venue

Location

NOTE to BANDS: CV SouthWest Magazine will publish ALL your shows for the next month on this Calendar FREE of charge; it is our commitment to support the LOCAL music scene with this listing. If you are a band and you want to take out a special ad for your shows or any other reason, contact us!

One of the premier club bands in Vegas, OUTTA the BLACK takes hard rock / metal to a new level. OTB brings a fresh and powerful perspective to old classics, but they step outta the box by performing deeper tracks from your favorite albums. OTB is made up of some of the best talent west of the Mississippi River; they cover the entire spectrum of classic hard rock & metal. In our Inaugural issue of CV SouthWest, the Pres catches up with the gang from OTB to find out what makes five diverse people come together into a well oiled machine... <CV SW> You know the first question…Tell us who’s in the band, and their role.

Drew Calvert – Lead vocals - our morality leader Greg Silver – guitars/vocals - “Mr. Social” Keith Trombino – bass/vocals - the King of Craigslist Scott Westbrook – drums - Prince of the One Liners Jerry Vayne – guitar/vocals - just shakes his head and asks “WHY me??” <CV SW> Who started the band, when? Where did the name come from? <Keith> I started the band in 2008; I was in 2 bands at that time, and left them both at roughly the same point, then spent the next year searching around town for musicians and putting together OTB. I went through 2 drummers and a guitarist, trying to find the right mix, before even playing our first show. The name came from the fact that, since I was no longer in those bands, my income disappeared, so I was “in the red” as they say. I decided on naming the band “Outta the Black” to inspire me to get a solid band together and make money by playing great music but catering to true rock and metal fans. <CV SW> The lineup has changed some over the years to its current group, and actually, 2 new guitarists and a new leader singer since mid-2012, right – tell us about that process, how has the band’s desires for a certain type of musician evolved and how have you filled that need with the current group? <Jerry> I had known Keith for a couple years via MySpace and he had wanted me to come over to try out back then but my schedule was so jacked up with my other music project that it never happened. Greg saw a response to a FB post that I had made, but at that time I had zero interest in joining a band; I was done with the BS and drama to be honest. What caught my attention was the set list that Greg sent me; my 30 minute audition lasted 2 hours, and that, as they say, is that. <Drew> I am friends with both previous vocalists, they are great guys and solid singers. There were logistical issues with Michael living in LA, and Robert work-

with two other projects – we’ve spoken a few times, and we know it took some time to build this team, and we are now ready to take it to the big dance with this line up. <Keith> The lineup kept changing due to "who couldn't get along with whom" or "who could only make certain rehearsals since they lived out of town" etc. Sometimes tough choices have to be made with saying “we don’t think you fit”, it’s just in the best interests of the band. We wanted to find members who had different musical backgrounds but still had the common goal of what they would like to play for themselves while still catering to the fans. <Greg> I joined in April of 2012, Jerry in October. The band just wanted to make a big ruckus. So we did. Seriously, that's my answer. We love to make noise; a big, loud, ringing noise. It leaves a great impression, your ears ring for a f**king week after we're done. :) <Scott> It’s been more of a natural progression, if there is such a thing. We didn’t really go out and say “we need THIS kind of guitarist” or anything specific. It really has more to do with the overall vibe and how well everyone gets along. Musically, it will work itself out if the general “feel” is there. We’re all just a blend of varied influences. <CV SW> Tell us how you feel the current lineup complements each other, what strengths do each of you bring? How do you guys blend together on stage better than you have in the past – how is it different? <Greg> We all get along really well. That's first and foremost, and also what has either held back, or torn apart most bands - many local and national bands. We ALL have a say in what we do, where we go, etc. We are friends as well, and want each other's input. <Drew> There’s a lot of give and take, but we all have an equal say and respect each other’s opinions. <Keith> We are always looking to improve each other’s playing as well as our own and this lineup is less stressful in that sense, plus when we write our original material we actually listen to each other’s ideas; it's a great creative vibe. <Jerry> That’s the key, what really makes us work is we all LIKE each other and we all listen and respect one another’s opinion. We may not always agree at first but we take the time to listen. Plus, all of us sing as well which I like a lot. No need for any

of those stupid backing tracks. <Drew> Yeah, as a vocalist, to have 3 other really good singers in the band is an amazing thing! <Keith> With the current lineup our voices gel more in harmonies, which sounds great. <Jerry> This is by far the strongest group of musicians I have worked with. We all have similar likes which helps as well in picking tracks to cover. From my vantage point, the band has become more visual onstage and all of us interact well with each other. <Keith> There are no egos, so if someone is playing something wrong someone would point it out and boom problem solved! Live, we all know what the other is gonna do so there is never a clusterf**k on stage and we try to complement each other’s energy as much as possible. <Scott> We have fun interacting with each other on stage. When there’s tension, it’s going to come across no matter how well you try to hide it. <Jerry> Scott brings a groove and a feel to the drums that I really like. He doesn’t just play a beat. He is always coming up with ways to make a boring part come alive. I tease Keith about using a 6 string bass but I have no idea why he isn’t in Bass Player magazine by now. He has a great sense of melody and placement of notes. Greg is the type of guitarist I like to play with. I suck at leads, I’ll be honest, and so I let him handle the bulk which he does quite well. <Greg> Our current line up genuinely likes to interact with each other on stage to make it a great show, not that we didn’t before, but when a band is in sync like we feel we are, it helps us to perform better on stage. <Scott> Not to get too far off into left field, an audience feeds off of the energy that a band or a performer puts out there. When that energy is good, the audience amplifies that and chucks it right back at ya which just makes you put that much more into your performance. <CV SW> Drew Calvert, formerly of Kaos X & Aces High, is now your front man, tell us what you think Drew will bring to the band. <Greg> Lots of Jack Daniels, I hope! <Scott> Beer. Drew brings beer. <NOTE: drummer & guitarist see eye-to-eye?> <Keith> Drew is a great front man and performer which we were lacking in the past; he is very energetic onstage as well as treating the audience like they're there to hang with the band rather than us playing for them <Scott> Drew’s great! A great, versatile set of pipes, he’s a great performer and adds to that “vibe”

and has a total lack of LSD (lead singer disease). <Jerry> Yeah, he’s very professional, and unlike some other singers I know and/or have worked with, has no ego. He listens to everything that is said – good or bad. We are sticklers when it comes to making sure everything is PERFECT musically and vocally and he works well with us to make sure it’s right. <Scott> Rob is a great guy, a good friend and a killer singer. I won’t take anything away from him.

He wanted to do his own thing and there’s nothing wrong with that. I’ll be VERY clear, there is NO bad blood between us. We are still brothers. <Greg> Drew has always been a friend, and always a great voice and performer. We just wanted someone that fits us in all aspects, it he does. We're writing together, as well as covering all our favorite stuff, so, he brings brotherhood as well as a great well-rounded voice and he knows how to grab and take hold of a crowd <Drew> So far we have been getting amazing feedback about the change. It was a very natural fit. I’ve been talking to Greg and Scott about singing with them even before Rob came on last year. I was so enamored with my other two projects at that time I couldn’t dedicate the time to OTB. We agreed we would keep in touch on it and here we are 7 months later with the new line up. <CV SW> It’s been quite a road to grab a couple of heavyweights like Jerry & Greg, how do you think those guys mesh with their playing? <Jerry> Heavyweights? I dunno about that… <Scott> Yeah, That’s not very cool to say! Jerry’s worked really hard to get down to 87 lbs! <Drew> I’ve noticed that the two not only play well together but have a genuine respect for each other’s playing which is rare to see these days.

There’s not the common ego s**t that goes on with a lot of guitar players I’ve met over the years. Wait, what’s up with that anyways? LOL We need DRAMA! <Keith> Greg and Jerry's playing complement each other very well; even though they are two different styles they have a common ground to make them sound like one <Jerry> I think we work well together. Our playing styles are similar enough but different enough to show some individuality. <Greg> Well, let's say it this way: I've been in one-guitar bands for most of my playing career, mainly cause of the old adage "doesn't play well with

others”, but, when it came to auditions, Jerry just fit right away as "one of the guys" he's a great player, great singer, and good person all around. We fit well together, right off the bat, and it was like we'd been playing off each other for a long time. <Scott> They definitely have different approaches which are great! They’re both unique players with their own varied influences that add to the flavor their playing brings to the overall mix. How boring would overdubs be? <CV SW> Who are your musical influences (or influences in general)? <Keith> Influences for me band wise would be Dream Theater, Queensryche, Rush, Yes, Metallica [pre- black album], Iron Maiden, Dixie Dregs. As far as solo musicians, Eddie Jackson, Stu Hamm, Billy Sheehan, Victor Wooten , Dave LaRue <Drew> Jeff Keith of Tesla always seems to come to mind but there are many.

Too many to list other than I have to say Sammy Hagar does one of the best jobs both on and off the stage. <Greg> I'm musically schizophrenic (ONLY musically?), so here goes: Everything from Air Supply to ZZ Top; Country, Metal, R&B, Industrial, etc. My actual individual influences are - Randy Rhoads, George Lynch, Oz Fox, Clint Lowery, Jerry Cantrell, Gary Moore; all guitar guys. <Scott> For me, anything that Tommy Aldridge played on! Tesla, Lynch Mob, Dream Theater, Liquid Tension Experiment, REALLY digging’ the Sixx AM stuff, Adler, Red, Stryper, Robert Johnson. It’s so eclectic, it’s ridiculous! <Jerry> KISS, Sabbath, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest. Ace Frehley is the reason I started playing. <Greg> The band's influences come from everywhere- we're a 80's/90's/current metal type of tribute or show band, so we hail those artists as our influences...but the ones that really stick out are like Skid Row, Dokken, Crue, Maiden, Priest, Sabbath, etc. We like it heavy with melody and groove. :) <CV SW> Everyone in the band has played with bands, what do each of you feel you took from those experiences to make you who you are today? <Jerry> With me, I definitely took the showman aspect I gained from the past bands I was in. <Keith> Truth be told, I’ve learned a lot about what NOT to do from past bands, sometimes we do learn from failure; I’ve also learned how to harmonize vocally better. <Jerry> I was in a glam band from 94-’01 as well as a Poison tribute and several AC/DC tributes so having to “put on a show” just became part of my playing style now and it’s kind of rubbed off on Greg and Keith a little, in my opinion. I have no-

ticed they are becoming more active on stage than I had seen before. <Scott> Definitely the show side of things. There are loads of extremely talented musicians staring at their shoes standing still boring the s**t out audiences. People don’t go out to see a CD. Your audience is taking time out of their lives to come see you do what you love doing. They DESERVE your best. <Drew> I think it’s amazing that we all have been doing the music thing in one shape or form for about the same amount of time in our lives. We have all been through the band drama BS with other projects. Now that we’re a little wiser and more mature we genuinely know what we have is special and not easy to find. <CV SW> Talk about OTB’s first show – after years in other bands and playing in Vegas, how did it feel getting ready to play as one? <Keith> Our first show was like a kid going to school for the first time, we were of course nervous but when we saw all our friends in the crowd digging what we did it felt like home and this was the right place to be. <Greg> We were frantic with energy - just like our shows. We put a lot of planning and serious drive/focus into our shows. It's only a 90 - 120min show each time, but we spend a lot of hard core focus and time planning each one. <Drew> We are currently preparing for our first official show with this line up so we’re not taking it lightly. We have been rehearsing steadily for a month now and it sounds better and better each rehearsal. <Greg> Each show we try to out-do our last. This time around, it’s all about creating something new and unique that would show where we are now and where we are going as well. <CV SW> Tell us about one of your most memorable shows. <Greg> Hmm....they're ALL memorable…just ask our fans. <Scott> Agreed, I think that they’re ALL memorable; it’s really not a bullshit answer.

We’re constantly evolving and growing and every show seems to reveal something new about who we are as a band and what our collective personality really is. <Jerry> Every show has a great memory for me whether it be the crowd, how we played etc. But being able to jam with Rowan Robertson (Dio) and Jeff Duncan (Armored Saint), who are both in DC4, was a blast for me as well as jamming with Oz Fox of Stryper several times; who, incidentally, has become a good friend/ mentor of the band as well. <Drew> It’s sappy, I know, but I tend to remember the benefit gigs the most. I did one in 2011 for 911 victims and one last year for Hurricane Sandy victims.

<Keith> For me, one of our memorable shows as OTB was when we played in Good Springs, NV. We did a benefit for pets without homes and the bar was tiny and we were supposed to play this big stage outside but due to the band who played the week prior the bar got noise complaints from the residents so they moved us inside on the floor. Well, this bar is like 20' x 80' which was the size of the entire joint, we had enough gear to play a festival and had to pack up more than half back on the truck just so we can fit. Oh yeah, and by the way, we have to mention the 400 plus people that were there for the cause but we jammed them into the place, got to jam with celebs, and even had porn stars there getting up with us and rocking out it was a fun gig. <Greg> We have funny, monumental stuff going on every time. But - Nov 3rd, we had early warning that a special guest might show up. And he did - Oz Fox, Stryper's guitarist, came out, and not only watched, but also got up and rocked with us! It was awesome to play Stryper's "Soldiers Under Command" to one of our longtime heroes, and to have him as a friend and fan of the band, now as well. <CVSW> What goes through your minds as you’re on stage rocking out? <Keith> What goes through my mind when the crowd is digging the music is this…"this is awesome, I hope we don't screw up the next tune" <Scott> I’m thinking, what can we do to get the energy level EVEN HIGHER? What will take this completely over the edge? It’s a GREAT feeling. There’s nothing else like it! <Drew> I really don’t think about it. I’ve had people tell me I look like I am in another world…I suppose I am! <Jerry> “Goddamit Keith…smack me with that bass head again and I’ll kick yer ass!” HAHAHA! Never played with a left handed musician before so we tend to “smack heads” and I always get the brunt of it with my guitar being knocked out of tune. <Greg> It's hard to explain, but 90 minutes goes by in like 10 seconds. We're so focused on playing as loud and hard as we can, that when we actually CAN see the audience, it’s a blast to see fists pumping, hands in the air, smiles, and especially when they sing WITH us. That's a huge thrill. <CV SW> What’s the craziest thing one of your fans has done during a show? <Jerry> They are all crazy! I really can’t think of any at the moment. <Drew> I had a transsexual strip down to naked in front of the stage once <Greg> Um...there's a lot of craziness, but at a show back in December, a fan

stood in front of me while I'm on the light box all lit up from underneath and stared at my crotch the entire time, only to tell me later how it was great that my balls were "gloriously lit up" – bahahahaha <CV SW> …... <Scott> I can’t say it was one of the craziest but, it was definitely one of the coolest. We had some temp tattoos of the OTB logo done for a show several months ago and I saw one our close friends Paul, from Systemec (editor’s note: look for an interview with Systemec in CV SouthWest in a future issue!), proudly sporting one on the side of his head! That was so cool! We’re all fans of each other’s bands. The Vegas scene is REALLY cool like that; we might “compete” with each other, but everyone has their place and they work hard to support each other and the local scene. <CV SW> What about your show do you think appeals to people? <Jerry> We don’t play what other bands do. <Greg> Yeah, we don't play the same sets that most other bands do, we like to play songs that make you go "OMG I remember that song" or "OMG I can't believe they just did that one!" We love to have fun, get crazy, and play really f**king LOUD... <Drew> Our song choice. We are a bit selfindulgent but it turns out the stuff we like everyone else likes too. <Keith> What appeals to people at our gigs is from what I have been told is this , we actually put on a show and not stand around going through the motions for a paycheck , it shows that we love what we play and that reflects on the audience’s response to the band. <Scott> It’s also HOW we play. According to what we hear, there’s a level

of raw aggression and showmanship that we’re bringing to the table that’s helping to raise the bar. Which is great! It really does help create this really cool healthy competition that can only benefit the Vegas music scene as a whole. If we’re constantly working together to outshine each other then how can we NOT become a scene of monster artists and performers ready to take on anyone from anywhere! <Keith> Also, we always add new material to every show so it's not the same dried up tunes, the audience knows they are gonna get something a little different each time, plus the crowd knows the band is ego free so it’s about kicking ass for them, not just looking good. <Jerry> We will play some of the same bands perhaps but we tend to pull out songs you wouldn’t expect to hear like “mObscene”, “Mother F*cker of the Year”… who plays them?

<CV SW> Where do you think you fall in the evolution of OTB, the stage of growth as a band? <Greg> OTB is always about growth. That's what we set out to focus on last year - to take what we do and grow further. I think right now, we're stronger than ever and hopefully we'll grow even more as the next year comes at us. <Drew> Original music, we are poised to break through on that front. <Scott> Right now is the crest of the wave.

Everything else has helped to build the wave, but this is the leading edge of it. <Keith> Our stage of growth in our minds is that we are still teenagers rockin out to our influences and having a blast doing it; we have still yet to grow up but I know we will only get better every time, especially since we are now writing originals to add to our catalog . <CV SW> What do you hope to accomplish as a band, and with your music, how do you want people to react to your music? <Jerry> Come out & have a great time. Walk away thinking “Ok, gotta see them again” and tell everyone to come see us. <Keith> Our goal is to play bigger venues and bigger audiences so we can show the world “hey there's other rock and metal out there besides Journey and Sweet Home Alabama. <Drew> Keith’s right, I would like to play more and see ourselves on a larger platform playing different venues locally. I believe if given the chance to open for some national acts and play in some the casinos around town we would pleasantly surprise a lot of people with our song choices <Keith> Playing bigger venues will also help us make money to finance our original album; let’s face it, there’s also a business side of this. <Greg> My personal goal is to leave people writhing on the floor

at the end of the set, in a pile of sweat, going "WTF just happened???? <CVSW> Wait, we talking about making music or making nasty? <Greg> OTB music IS like making nasty bro… <CV SW> Rumor is you’ve been writing and recording original music, what can you tell us about that? <Scott> DAMNIT, the cat is outta the bag!!! Alright. We’re doing A LOT of writing and it’s going unbelievably well. Everyone is bringing all these GREAT ideas to the table and we’re getting a really clear picture of just how varied our individual influences really are. <Drew> Two words Bad Ass! <Keith> It's a blast, 5 different styles working together as a unit.

<Scott> That just means we have that many more ingredients to add to the pot. It’s really cool to see how they all come together and blend. We have a lot to say. <Keith> We have been writing originals because with this lineup we want to expand our horizons and show what our influences can really produce. <Jerry> There’s been no shortage of ideas. ALL of us write which is awesome because you never know what’s gonna come out of it. It’s exciting. <Greg> We have all written/played/recorded original stuff in the past, and we wanted to do it as a team, this time around. We're constantly getting together and throwing new stuff down - hopefully we'll have enough to record a full-length CD very soon. <Jerry> I write metal-themed instrumental music for the Haunted Attraction Industry and Scott also does scoring as well so that brings a whole other element into our writing that adds to the songs. Greg and I don’t play the same parts so we have a lot of cool counter parts that work well together. <Scott> Not everyone’s gonna like what we have to say but, we’re gonna say it because that’s who we are. There is a lot of aggression with a load of melody and harmony. We’re not really shying away from anything which is GREAT!! <Greg> Right now, as we'd hoped, it's sounding very OTB-ish, which reflects a lot of our experiences and influences, also conveying messages we really want to get across <CV SW> Being mostly a cover band at present, do you feel as though you have more to prove in terms of marketability? <Keith> Of course, most of the original bands in this town don't count cover bands as "part of the scene" yet we are drawing numbers that triple the other local bands, once we debut our originals it will be a whole different ball game since we now have our loyal following. <Greg> To me, not at all. Most musicians in the local scene that know us also know our past and our experience, the fact that we've all been thru the original stuff before. Right now it’s not about proving anything; it’s about making as much noise as we can, and having FUN with it for once. Which, we are! <Drew> I’d say yes. But I believe when people start hearing the originals we are writing they are going to think of us as a real band and not just a cover band. <Scott> My answer would be “not too much.”

There have been a few instances where we didn’t end up on a show because of this or that, but I believe the covers that we’ve chosen to do over the years have completely separated us from what is typically considered a “cover band.” <Jerry> Like all the

other bands, we want to be the best at what we do and we know there’s a lot of competition but thankfully, the majority of the bands get along and it’s a friendly competition most of the time, IMO. <CV SW> How do you guys choose a set to play, what goes into the song list? <Drew> It has to be a great song. Great songs come in all forms. We look for songs with an edgier sound to them and usually make them a little heavier when we play them. <Jerry> Greg is good at doing set lists so we get a rough idea of the flow and then start weeding out what we think works and what we want to add. <Greg> We have a rotation of about 65 tunes that we pull from. We like to hammer a lot of the big, energy songs, but also each show we try to add a lot more as well. Usually about 5 new songs each show...to us, it’s all about relevant tunes. Anything that we're known for, that the crowds love, and constantly trying to outdo ourselves. :) <Keith> How we choose a set list also depends on what venue; for more high end casino type shows we try to cater to the average Joe who just listens to the radio but we still throw in a zinger or two to get them thinking. With bars and clubs it's balls out playing what the fans really want to hear, most of our set list is compiled with fast energetic tunes to keep the energy flowing. <Scott> Think about how you would design a thrill ride… <CV SW> What do YOU guys think is the hardest part of being successful in the Vegas music scene? <Keith> We don't know, we're still not successful yet! lol. But we always try to make each show different from the last and try to surprise the audience each time. <Drew> Being appealing to all types of venues here. It’s easy to get labeled.

We are making a serious effort in beefing up our song catalog to play songs that accommodate not only private clubs but casino venues as well. <Jerry> For me, it’s getting the casinos to loosen up a little. I get they want standards but so many people DON’T want to hear that now. How many bands need to know “Sweet Child of Mine”?

It’s a crap shoot. <Scott> Pretty much the same problem bands in other areas face. There are douchebags in the entertainment industry including agents, promoters, some publishers, etc, who are out to take advantage of artists and venues and it’s up to the VENUES and ARTISTS to get past these screwballs and save our music scenes all over the country. <Greg> Hardest part is probably that we're always wanting to do more, but not always able to... <CV SW> What do you mean, Greg? <Greg> The economy’s changed, the industry has changed, there are more limitations in the mar-

ket these days. Smaller venues don’t pay as much; they are great to play but it’s hard to make a living.

Bigger venues DO pay well, but often they want you to play at 95dB in a small lounge and then don’t want you to be who you are, they want you to fit into that cookie-cutter club band mold. Have I told you I like to play LOUD? <CV SW> Your “home” club is the Count’s Vamp’d, how did that come about, and tell us how you feel that association works for the band. <Keith> How we got into Vamp’d; well that's a story. I got us booked there when we first started playing, and after countless phone calls and bothering them, they finally gave us an opening slot opening for someone [at this point I forget who]. Well, our singer’s girlfriend had a fight with her ex at the club and my singer stepped in to protect her; now my old singer also started arguing with the bouncers since they were friends with the ex-boyfriend and BAM, we weren't allowed to play there. I was getting our pay from Danny Koker at the time it happened and I said "well I guess we are not allowed back, thank you so much for the chance to play your club". The club was also going through the "different booking agents every month" phase and we were known as “the band that had a fight there.” So I called constantly to get booked again but kept getting blown off from the booking guy there who only booked his friends’ bands. So, we found another venue to play right down the road which was the Las Vegas Rock and Roll Cantina; we played there and found our new home. We booked a second gig there but a day or two prior to the gig the bar shut down. So we had a s**t load of people ready to rock but we had no venue. Luckily our friend Michelle Nafts knew the current person who booked Vamp'd (who was Korie Koker) and told her the situation; well Korie said "they can play if the band that is currently playing that night doesn't mind OTB jumping on the bill". The other band was very cool about letting us play after them and we have played there once a month since. <Greg> Vamp'd has been the home for hard rock here in town since it opened in 2009. It's just a killer club with a home/friendly vibe to it. The staff and management and owners are all great people, that constantly make the crowds and bands feel like family. For us, it means a consistency you can't find in many other venues. <Drew> Best club in Vegas hands down. They

are family to us and we pack the house every time we play there. It works out well for both of us. <Scott> We love playing Vamp’d! It’s our second home! Danny, Korie, Danny G., and my bro Froberg are AMAZING to us! Those folks are like family! <CV SW> What are the big plans for 2013 for OTB? <Drew> A debut EP and a small western tour to support it. <Keith> We want our fans to really be into the music we’re choosing and want to make it a big party every gig; we want the OTB family to grow like it has been. <Greg> We're currently writing our first EP/album, working with Oz Fox coproducing it with us.... We plan to have it done, and out, by mid-year. But we also plan to invite as many musician friends that we know, to play with us at each show.

That's a blast, and we never tire of it. <Jerry> More gigs, more places for people to come see us. <Scott> Bigger, better, badder, meaner, louder, nastier! More venues! <CV SW> If you guys had one song to play before you die, what would the band play? <Keith> “Metropolis” by Dream Theater <Jerry> “Get The Fuck Out” by Skid Row… wait, we already do! LOL <Drew> Today I have to say our original “Hard Road” but that might change as we continue to write. <Greg> That would have to be 5 songs to play. There are 5 of us, and although we're a unit, we're also 5 differently influenced guys! MY choice would be a re-write, drop-tuned version of something really cool, like an obscure Ozzy tune. <CV SW> If you guys could open for anyone, is there a consensus as to who it might be? <Drew> Steel Panther <Jerry> I don’t care. As long as we’re having fun, the crowd is having fun, drinks are flowing and everyone is smiling & rockin’ out... I’m good. <Keith> If we had the chance to open for someone I would have to say Iron Maiden or Queensryche <Greg> Not a consensus, but the closest bet, probably Queensryche, Skid Row, maybe the new Black Sabbath reunion tour?? :)

One of CV NorthWest’s Newest Partners!

Thriving for more than a decade, mostly through the word of mouth of its devoted techie customer base, Monoprice has quietly built a stellar reputation as an “in-the-know” ecommerce site that delivers high-quality tech accessories at bargain prices.

Now, the Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.-based company is poised to capitalize on its recent rapid growth, as evidenced by its appearance in Inc. Magazine’s 2012 top 500 list of America’s fastest growing companies. Traffic has grown 81 percent, and revenue has surged 141 percent in the past three years at the e-commerce company, a sign of prosperity in a tough economy and a testament to a solid business model focused on keeping prices affordable for their current (and future) customers.

Monoprice, strictly an e-commerce company, specializes in a wide variety (their product catalog features over 4,000 products - for the list, see http://www.monoprice.com/products/ index.html) of electronic cables, home theater equipment, networking and IT gear, mobile accessories, and other computer components and tech equipment. Customers can easily navigate their website and choose from among more than 4,300 Monoprice branded and non-branded products offered at very affordable prices on its website.

Based in Rancho Cucamonga, California, Monoprice, Inc. is an e-commerce leader specializing in high-quality cables, components and accessories for computers, consumer electronics and pro audio equipment. Established in 2002, the company has built its reputation upon customer word of mouth, the consistent ability to deliver premium quality products at prices far below other national brands in retail, and unmatched customer service. Many of Monoprice products are produced in ISO9001 and ISO14001 facilities and maintain the highest standards for production and work environment. The vast majority of the company’s products are RoHS compliant, reducing their environmental impact. They are a CCR Trading Partner, a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business and were named an Inc. 500 company in 2008, 2009 & 2010, and an Inc. 5000 company in 2011.

Once again, IFBB professional bodybuilder, model, and personal trainer Marina Lopez allows CV WorldWide to grace our issue with her presence!

Aside from appearing for the second time in our publication, Marina has been featured in numerous fitness magazines, has modeled for clothing lines, and done photo shoots for both custom motorcycles and exotic cars.

Marina owns a fitness studio in Denver, CO at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Marina has been a fitness and bodybuilding competitor since 2004, earning her IFBB pro card at the 2010 IFBB Nationals.

Marina keeps herself in phenomenal shape all year round and is available for photo or video shoots.

Contact her via www.MarinaLopez.com

Turning old instruments into art!

Instrument Art is something Terry at Guinner Graphix has been doing for years for many people that have a love for instruments.

Terry has found, since being back in California, that local music stores have a endless source of instruments to bring back to life. He will personalize your drums, guitars, and any instrument you have. He is cur-

rently working on a Mandolin Jewelry Box, a custom base for a member of the all-female band Zepparella, a commemorative CV WorldWide guitar, and somebody even asked him to do something with their piano! He can make a piece of furniture out of an unusable or unwanted instruments, he does it all.

To contact Terry, visit:

www.Drumiture.com

Terry has now expanded his repertoire to include different instruments, everything from mandolins to guitars of all kinds, making custom pic guards and head stock art. He is constantly on the go, working with different vendors and personalities to generate great art pieces, many for charities

Terry’s hope has always been to work with many wonderful people in many creative and unique ways, and in accomplishing that he is living his dream. He loves to save vintage or valuable drums in any way, using them to make individual, personal, one-of-a-kind pieces, his skill and perfection borne of his love of drums and art. Saving drums, meeting great people, helping those in need, and creating some very unique drum furniture is, to Terry, his life’s calling, and one can see the passion and skill in his work.

In Terry’s words; “to be able to save these drums and unwanted instruments or cherished mementos and see the appreciative faces of the people for whom I have made them is what truly makes me happy.

I’m excited to say that Drumiture has many new clients contacting me daily, and the donations of numerous unwanted instruments, which I see as ‘unfinished art’, is helping me make my dream come true.”

Taming the

Wilde Laura Wilde has become a musical tour de force, armed with killer guitar riffs and a kick-ass attitude, and she is taking the world by storm. On stage she boils with raw, passionate energy; playing her blazing, mirror-fronted flying V guitar, she is a hard charging, take-no-prisoners, balls to the wall artist.

From the clubs of Melbourne, Australia to a national tour with the Motor City Madman himself, Laura is poised for world wide fame, ready to create a fresh interpretation of traditional rock n roll for a younger generation of fans.

CV WorldWide had a chance to chat with Laura during some downtime...

CV WW: Let’s talk about the road to becoming…Laura Wilde…growing up, did you always want to play music? Did anything else catch your fancy beforehand? <Laura Wilde> Always! I've been obsessed with musical instruments for as long as I can remember. When I was little the sight of anything to do with guitars or drums would make my heart flutter and absolutely nothing has changed.

vana, but as I got older I started to dig deeper and listen to the bands that influenced them.

There's a whole bunch from every decade dating back from Guns 'n' Roses in the 80's to Elvis in the 50's and Robert Johnson in the 30's. It's a mixture of influences from a whole range of rock bands, such as Black Sabbath, ACDC, Led Zeppelin and ZZ Top, glam bands like Sweet, Slade and T.Rex, punk bands like The Clash, The Ramones, The Sex Pistols and The Stooges. The list goes on and CV WW: Tell us about that moment when on! My main lead guitar influences would you said “yeah, I wanna rock, I wanna get have to be Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page and up there and kick ass with a guitar”.

Slash. <LW> The big moment occurred at the tender age of 3 when I saw the 'Are You Gon- CV WW: What went into the decision to go na Go My Way' video by Lenny Kravitz. solo versus playing in a band?

Watching him, his band and the audience all <LW> Flying solo just happened organrocking out and going nuts made me want to ically because I had so many different get up there and do the exact same thing. friends that I was jamming with growing up and I never really fell into a definitive band.

CV WW: Who are your musical influences When I first started recording songs it was (or influences in general)? just the producer and I working on tunes that <LW> I grew up listening to 90's rock I had written and our own collaborations. bands like Green Day, Foo Fighters and Nir-

CV WW: Tell us about the music scene in Melbourne versus America – how are they different and how are they the same? <LW> The Australian pub culture brings along a certain element of rough and tumble camaraderie which is very conducive to writing rock music. Australia has given birth to rock 'n' roll greats such as AC/DC, Jet, Wolfmother and INXS. America has a different history and different influences entirely. There is a more vast population and therefore a greater mix of different genres.

CV WW: When you were a teenager, you played for the Saudi Royal Family? Tell us about that experience – what did you play, how did you get the honor, how did the Royal Family react and what did they say to you? <LW> Playing for the Saudi Royal Family was such an amazing and unexpected experience. We were all staying at the same hotel before I made the move to Los Angeles. They found out I was a musician, listened to the demo and before I knew it they had requested a private acoustic show. They were thrilled with the performance which was just such an unbelievable honor.

CV WW: You first got on stage when you were 16, were you nervous at all? <LW> I was way too excited to be nervous.

Everyone in the audience was going crazy and cheering when I was walking up to go on stage which was such a great feeling. From then on I was officially hooked!

CV WW: Forward a bit, and you’re a studio & session player for some of the biggest Australian artists, what were you able to take away from that time period. <LW> Being selected to play for top tier artists is such an honor, but the pressure is on!

It makes you really step up and work a lot harder to deliver a high standard. These opportunities are always such a great experience as you are able stretch yourself by playing a different styles and experimenting with different sounds.

CV WW: You spent some time at University – it ultimately didn’t work out, as you said, but what did you learn about Laura Wilde from that experience? <LW> I found it extremely hard to concen-

trate on something that I wasn't interested in. I was very easily distracted. However, when I was finally had the opportunity to pursue my passion, it didn't feel like work at all and I was able to focus to the exclusion of everything else and didn't feel like I was missing out.

CV WW: You moved to LA to “take it to the next level” – tell us about that decision…how you came to it, how was it to leave Australia behind.

Did you feel as though you’d “outgrown” the local music scene there? <LW> It was so freaky leaving for the airport and pondering the fact that I had a one way ticket and would be over there indefinitely. I had been back and forth a few times before I officially moved over, however nothing can ever really prepare you to leave behind your family and friends.

There is a larger market for everything in the USA. Playing rock music wasn't something that I was encouraged to do in Australia. I constantly met resistance and was steered to play other genres instead. It made sense at the time to make the move.

CV WW: You made Revolver Magazine’s 25 Hottest Chicks in Rock – but being both beautiful and talented, did you feel as though had a little extra to prove to make it as a woman in rock? <LW> Well, thank you! I think women in the rock scene generally do have to work a lot harder in order to prove themselves. However, if you have really taken the time to practice, hone your craft and put in the extra effort that will ultimately shine through and garner the respect you deserve as a serious artist.

CV WW: Talk about your views on the state of women in rock, where do you think that evolution is in terms of progress? Is it still an uphill climb, or do you think we’ve finally figured out that gender is not an issue? <LW> It's certainly not a walk in the park, but it would be a lot easier nowadays than it was for someone like Suzi Quattro. I have so much respect for artists like her who broke down the barriers and blazed the trail for the rest of us.

CV WW: Talk about “Sold My Soul”, is there a message in there we need to know? <LW> "Sold My Soul" is mostly an expression of the thoughts and feelings I experienced in my late teens. This album is almost an emotional journal touching on my dreams, wishes, lost loves and the adventure of growing up. This record is an introduction to the body of work that I am really excited to share with my fans over time, a taste of things to come.

work. I really enjoyed every step of the process from writing the songs to recording demos and working with producers. Most of the record was done in Australia and some was done in the USA so it was great to see the different studios and different ways of working in both places.

CV WW: The record gets recorded, releases, and you’re standing there holding YOUR CD… what are you thinking? <LW> I keep thinking back to the 3 year old Laura, wildly inspired by the Lenny Kravitz video and how she would react if she knew that she would make her own CD. It's just so rewarding being able to listen from start to finish and remember the journey of how it all came about.

CV WW: What inspires you when your write music, from where does the muse descend? <LW> The muse generally descends from when I have a strong emotional reaction towards something.

Sometimes a song can come into my head when I'm half asleep, so I'll have to wake myself up and hum it into my phone before I forget the idea. I usually come up with a lot of guitar riffs when I'm just messing around and doing some practice at home.

CV WW: You were handpicked by Ted Nugent himself for his Great White Buffalo tour in 2012, how did that come about, did the Motor City Madman call you or go through channels? Did you think it was a prank from the band? <LW> At the time I was working with a CV WW: Tell us about the process of making publicist who coincidentally was Ted's first pubthe album – I know a lot of us believe it’s all licist and she put in a good word because she cool and fun, but it’s hard work isn’t it? thought we would be a great match for a tour. <LW> Making the album is fun, hard From the next room I remember hearing 'they

want Laura to open for Ted' and I nearly hit the energy. roof with excitement.

CV WW: Tell us about one of your most memoCV WW: What was touring with Ted Nugent rable shows. like? What did you learn from touring with a <LW> Definitely in Tama, Iowa. We arlegend like him? rived at the venue and it was pouring with rain. <LW> Touring with Ted Nugent was such I had to sound check in a yellow plastic poncho. an amazing experience. We got to travel across The entire stage was flooded to the point where the whole country and play virtually every night the crew was which was like a dream. We made so many new pushing off all friends. of the water Ted was such a great artist to learn with brooms. from. Everything from his showmanship, per- All of the gear formance and playing ability were just flawless was sitting in and energetic. puddles and covered with CV WW: Talk about your first “official” show plastic sheets.

– you’re walking to the stage, ready to rock, I was scared what is going through your mind? of slipping <LW> I can remember it like it was yester- over or getting day. My guitarist was riding a bike in the rain electrocuted the night before the show and slipped off and by the soaked broke his arm. He ended up playing the show in wires! Luckily excruciating pain. After such a horrific and the rain stressful scramble on the day, I was morbidly cu- cleared up rious to see how the whole thing was going to and it turned pan out. out to be one of the best CV WW: What are you thinking when you are shows of the on stage, and the fans are screaming and whole tour. cheering, do you ever get caught up in the moment, get distracted?

CV WW: What’s the craziest thing one of your <LW> On tour, most of the time is spent fans has done during a show? cooped up traveling so when you finally get on <LW> In one of my earlier shows in Melstage to play, you want to make the most of evebourne I was standing near the front of the stage ry moment up there. When the fans in the audiand an audience member jumped up on stage ence are screaming and cheering, it's such a treat and ripped my raccoon tail right off! I guess he because you connect and feed off each other's really wanted a souvenir.

CV WW: Rock Over America voted you “Best New Female Artist” for 2012 – you beat out some heavy talent, how does that make you feel, looking back at all you went through to get to this point? <LW> I really feel so honored to have been given the award. It was such a fantastic close to a wonderful year.

CV WW: 2012 was an incredible breakout year, how do you top that? Is the future daunting based on such an incredible run? <LW> Not at all. I am so thankful for the success that we had last year and the progress

made it' feeling comes when people have been inspired by the live show or songs on the record.

To be able to influence people and touch their hearts though music is just amazing.

CV WW: What do you hope to accomplish with your music, how do you want people to react to your music? <LW> I hope to provide people with an emotional connection to the message in the different songs. I would like to take listeners on the same journey that I was on when the songs were written.

CV WW: What are the big plans for 2013 for Laura Wilde? <LW> A new record is in the works and we are at present looking at some different touring options. Keep an eye on my webpage for all of the updates!

CV WW: And to show our support, tell us who has got your back onstage, let’s give props to the band too! made so far. The ultimate goal is always there <LW> I'm happy to say that we've got Brad but it's just a matter of taking things one baby Bailey on the guitar, Chris Price on the bass and step at a time and moving forward.

RJ Shankle on the drums. They are such a great bunch of guys. I can't wait to head out on the CV WW: What about your music do you think road with them this summer. appeals to people? <LW> Many people have mentioned that CV WW: Laura, thank you for taking the time they love the powerful energy of the music and out of your busy schedule to speak with us! live show and that it's unusual to see someone of <LW> Thank you, Chris. It has been a my age playing that style of rock 'n' roll. pleasure.

CV WW: Where do you think you fall in the evolution of Laura Wilde, the stage of growth as an artist? <LW> I still feel like I'm a sprouting seed, with a little sunshine and water hopefully this thing will blossom into something that I can look back on with pride.

CV WW: Have you ever stood on stage and said to yourself “yeah, I’ve made it”, do you have that feeling yet? <LW> Seeing people in the audience smiling, head banging, throwing horns and just having a good time makes me so happy, I feel like I could float off the stage. Sometimes the 'I've

VISIT Laura @ http://www.laurawilde.com/ LIKE Laura @ https://www.facebook.com/laurawildemusic

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April 20th Count’s VAMP’d 9:00 pM With

5 Automotive Fixes You Can Do Yourself These DIY Jobs Save You Time and Money Even in this age of computerized automotive systems and engines hidden from view beneath plastic covers, there are simple upkeep tasks that you can do that will save time and money. And this means you â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ordinary, old, non-mechanical you.

This list of projects requires few tools and no experience. If you've hung a picture or pounded a nail, you can tackle any one of them. "Taking care of the small things now can add up to a big difference in your wallet later on," says a merchandising manager for AutoZone, a large auto parts retailer.

It's difficult to attach cost savings to some items on our list. Others have a wide range of costs, depending on whether you drive a luxury car or a beater. The Edmunds.com data department estimated the time it would take a mechanic to complete each task and calculated the labor cost for Southern California. But doing these jobs yourself will have rewards above and beyond saving a buck or two, and we've noted such benefits, too. You might just like the hands-on experience enough that you'll move on to other DIY projects.

1. Check Your Tire Pressure and Inflate Your Tires Money $aved: A tire-pressure check and inflation is usually combined with other routine services, but the estimate for the shop cost of this alone is $22-$30. The biggest savings, however, is the increased fuel economy that comes with properly inflated tires: $112 a year in gas, according to an Edmunds.com study of its employees.

According to the same study, the savings could be as high as $800 for drivers with severely underinflated tires. If the nearly 250 million registered passenger vehicles in the United States were only 7 percent underinflated and owners brought their tires up to the specified level, the overall savings would be about $23 billion per year, according to a 2005 Department of Transportation study.

Time required: 15 minutes, once a month Parts required: None Tools required: Tire pressure gauge, air pump (usually free at a gas station) Why DIY: Keeping your tires properly inflated is important for three reasons, according to Matt Edmonds, vice president of Tire Rack, an online tire retailer. As Edmonds tells us, properly inflated tires improve safety (your car handles better during emergency braking and cornering), prolong tire life (tires wear more evenly) and reduce fuel costs. "You never notice an underinflated tire until you have to slam on the brakes or swerve around something on the highway," Edmonds says.

"That's when the underinflated tire can really affect performance."

2. Rotate Your Tires Money $aved: A tire rotation in Los Angeles ranges from $43-$60.

For a person driving 12,000 miles a year, that's two tire rotations.

Doing it yourself could save $120 annually.

Time required: One hour Parts required: None Tools required: Jack stand, tire iron and your car's jack Why DIY: Front tires often wear faster than rear tires because braking and cornering is more demanding on them, according to Tire Rack's Edmonds. By rotating your tires, you help ensure that

two tires won't need replacement prematurely. The Tire Rack Web site offers common rotation patterns, but Edmonds recommends sticking to the pattern in your car's owner's manual. Furthermore, when you perform the rotation yourself, you can closely inspect the tires for defects and premature wear. You might spot a nail that's stuck in a tire and is slowly deflating it, Edmonds says.

3. Change Your Air Filter Money $aved: Mechanics charge $19-$60 just for the labor involved in changing an air filter.

Time required: Five minutes Parts required: New air filter Tools required: Screwdriver Why DIY: Sales guys at quick-lube places love to upsell customers on air filters because the filters take very little time to replace and bring a nice profit. Changing one yourself only takes 5 minutes, keeps dirt out of your engine and improves fuel economy, according to AutoZone. In areas with lots of dust, change the air filter more frequently, the retailer recommends. If you learn where the filter is and how to change it, it's an easy way to extend the life of your engine.

4. Replace Bulbs and Fuses Money $aved: Mechanics charge from $17-$132 to replace bulbs and fuses, depending on the make and model of vehicle.

Time required: 30 minutes Parts required: Replacement bulbs and fuses (usually sold in a box of assorted sizes) Tools required: Screwdriver Why DIY: Headlights and taillights are essential safety items. It doesn't cost much for a mechanic to change a bulb or a fuse, but do you really want to schlep to a garage, wait around and maybe pay the 50 percent markup dealers charge for parts? That's the average, according to this service advisor in "Confessions from the Dealership Service Department." Instead, pick up the bulb or automotive fuses at an auto parts store and crack open your owner's manual.

5. Change Your Own Oil Money $aved: Quick-lube shops and dealership service departments in the Los Angeles area charge $39-$60 for an oil change.

Time required: One hour Parts required: Engine oil, oil filter. Sometimes it's a good idea to replace the washer for the drain plug, too.

Tools required: Jack, oil pan for catching the old oil, socket wrench, oil-filter wrench, recycling bottles, mechanic's rubber gloves and plenty of rags.

Why DIY: Changing your own oil will save money and help you to avoid one of the upsells that quick-lube salespeople or the service advisors tend to push during the oil-change process. While an oil change is more advanced than other items on this list, it is well within the ability of anyone with a little mechanical knowledge. After you master this task, you might feel like a real mechanic and you may find yourself bragging about it to your friends.

There's Help at Hand When you're setting out to do any of these fix-it jobs, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check with your local auto parts store for DIY support services they might offer. Š Copyright Edmunds.com Reprinted with Permission

"PREPARING YOU FOR GREATNESS"

Metal Messiah Radio is a twenty-four hour a day, seven day a week, international internet radio station. Metal Messiah Radio had DJs from all over thh world, spanning FIVE of the seven continents, all bringing you the very best music to get you through your day, no matter what time zone you are in. The station is dedicated to bringing their listeners the very best music there is to offer because we are...

YOUR METAL MUSIC MESSIAH!!!

What's going on in the Las Vegas Nightlife world? Las Vegas Nightlife Photos was busy shooting all kinds of shows across the valley. The month of March in Sin City was a little slower than most, with not as many larger live music shows than the warmer months hold. That's not saying it was boring by any means.

A new player on the Live Music front is Club fortune Casino; a smaller casino than what most are used to and located in the deepest part of the Southeast Henderson valley. After arriving on the map in 2011 with their first Battle of the Bands, actually providing a subStoney Curtis @ Club Fortune Casino stantial prize to the winning band ($2000) and guaranteed paying gigs in their showroom, Club Fortune is supporting the local music scene in a big way, hosting 1-2 bands every weekend and having started a Thursday Night 'Open Jam' with some of the top players in the city showing up weekly. Hosted by Jason Constantine, Engineer/Producer at Desert Moon Productions, Merry Adin from the band Brazen and Danny Robert, Drummer from Club Fortune's first Battle of the Band Winners, Bluff Control, Sin City Sinnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Brent & Doc these professionals put on one of the best Open Jams in Sin City.

One of the hottest live music venues in Las Vegas, Vamp'd hosted a nonstop barrage of talented musicians. A change to the norm, Vamp'd hosted some of the top Tribute Bands in the industry with Aces High (Tribute to Iron Maiden), Damage Inc (Tribute to Metallica), Las Vegas KISS' Tribute Show and Fan Halen's Tribute to early Van Halen. This took place in addition to some of the bigger names in 80's & 90's rock, Tesla's Frank Hannon, The Bulletboys, Y&T, Saigon Kick and legendary guitarist, Uli Jon Roth. A new collaboration of top-notch Hard Rock & Metal Artists, Cyanide, made it's debut at Vamp'd to a packed house as well.

Robert Hussey of Cyanide

In addition to the bigger names, some of the hottest local bands also graced the stage. Outta The Black performed one of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most unique shows to date, covering one of the top songs on current radio rotation, and introducing 2 brand new origi-

nal songs, along with a brand new front man. Drew Calvert, former Lead Singer for KAOS X & Aces High. Drew joined the OTB clan to add a whole new punch to an already over-the-top show.

Along with OTB, everyone's favorite Dirty Pair-O-Dice, The Stoney Curtis Band, and Vamp'd's own Danny 'The Count' Koker with his band Zito77, hit the Vamp'd stage. A stranger to Vamp'd lately, The Sin City Sinners, came back to rock a full house as well as the Jizzy Pearl Band. The Sinners just completed their final show at their long time home, The Railhead, inside Boulder Station Hotel & Casino. The event was a celebration of Jizzy Pearl's Birthday with guest appearances from Stoney Curtis, Doc Ellis and Jeff Tortora.

LVCS, also known as the Las Vegas Country Saloon, has been bringing in a large amount of local bands, giving them a shot to showcase their talents. Located down amongst the Fremont Street Experience, directly about the Brass Lounge, LVCS has one of the top showrooms anywhere in downtown Las Vegas. The latest show that I attended included a contender in the previously mentioned venue Club Fortune's Battle of the Band's II. After a short hiatus, JetBlackLab returned with a new front man, performing at the LVCS. After being a Finalist in the Battle of the Bands II at Club Fortune Casino, they have come back with even a bigger punch than before and are continuously looking for that next open stage.

Brian of Smashing Alice

DVIR @ Vamp’d

Smashing Alice, another entry in the Club Fortune Casino Battle of the Bands II, continues to impress the enormous crowds on Fremont Street with their onslaught, drawing in hundreds of passer-by’s with their impressive performances. They are also making a return to the new club inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Viny’l, on April 6 th. Viny’l is the latest Live Music venue to open in Las Vegas and is gaining an interest with tourists and locals alike. Hosting local acts and independent artists as well as national touring acts, Viny'l is becoming one of the top larger venues in Sin City.

After all this excitement, what will happen NEXT month? Come back and find out...

Kevin Lastovica Las Vegas Nightlife Photos https://www.facebook.com/messages/ SinCityExaminer

JetBlackLab playing @ LVCS