DETROIT
LIVE
magazine 12/2012
Jack White at VOODOO
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MEGYN HERMEZ MADONNA SALIVA THE SCENERY CLAUDE VONSTROKE Photo by M.G. Nader
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C O N T E N T S
Contributors: Jennifer Mcfarland, Benny Jet, A.J Wells, Eric Harabadian, Sam Thomas, Cheri Clair, Jason Stocker, Aluna Michael, M.G. Nader, Karin Elizabeth, Tim Cook, Graphic Design: Darian Counts, Staff Story Editing: Elizabeth Sinclair, Brad Simon Photgraphers: M.G. Nader, Staff Publisher Granger Publishing Editor: Darian Counts Sales: Darian Counts, Amanda Blsanchard Cover photo: Shant Malkonian Hair/ Make Up By: Maryam Nona
5. MADONNA - JENNIFER McFARLANE 6. THE SCENERY- SAM THOMAS 9. IN THE BEGINNING - KARIN ELIZABETH 10. BENNY AND THE JETS - BENNY JET 14. REVOLUTION OF ROCK - TINY TIM COOK 16. A CONVERSATION WITH MEGYN HERMEZ - ERIC HARABADIAN 19. NO CALSS ASSASSINS - CHERI CLAIR 21. SALIVA @ THE ALL AROUND 24. CHOICE CUTS - ERIC HARABADIAN 25. CLAUDE VONSTROKE - JASON STOCKER -Presented By HEAR MAGAZINE 27. BRANDON SMITH - A.J. WELLS 28. HOROSCOPE - ALUNA MICHAELS 30. THE END OF A CRUSH In cooperation with www.jeffsalbumreview.com
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Copyright 2012- Granger publications. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. All materials received without SASE are considered property of Granger Publications. Detroit Live is available free of charge to fans of live music everywhere...Enjoy!
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MADONNA A Home Town Performance By Jennifer McFarlane
She had style; she had grace as Madonna performed in her home state last night at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit Michigan on the 2012 MDNA World Tour. Although it has been since 2008 that Madonna has made a home appearance, she was excited to be back. She gave many shout out’s including one to her dad who was in attendance. Despite the late hour start, she brought the traditional Madonna show everyone expected to see.
couple songs. The giant video screen choreographed with dance and a stage Photos By Marc Nader - Review by Jennifer McFarlane that changed elevations, provided a great visual effect to the performance. Although the crowd showed much enthusiasm for her new songs, everyone was on their feet singing and dancing to the classic’s like “Papa Don’t Preach”, “Vogue”, “Open Your Heart” and “Express Yourself” just to name a few.
The highlight of the evening was when Madonna performed her infamous song, “Like a Prayer”, with a full gospel The evening began with an elaborate choir combined with the controversial entrance involving monks, crosses, and prayer. Throughout the show there were dance moves from the songs 1989 music many costume changes that ranged from video. The only part of the night that had mixed emotions from the crowd was corsets, cheerleading uniforms, Obama when Madonna brought up the recent t-shirts and even a throw back to the election. As she shared her support for cone bra. Phenomenal moves from President Obama, she did receive a few Madonna combined with her chiseled boos, only stating that “boo” means “I dance team brought life to each of her songs. She had a group of contortionists love you.” She brought the crowd back to agreement by sharing what a privilege who performed their unnatural moves it is that we live in a country where during a few songs as well as snare we have the right to vote. Overall the drummers suspended from the ceiling concert was nothing short of amazing during “Express Yourself”. Madonna and we hope to see Madonna back to her showed her music talents through her home state, where she claims made her a vocals, and even played guitar on a hard working girl! DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM - LIVE 5
The Scenery By: Sam Thomas
dude’s house in Iowa. The guy was really nice, but his house was infested with spiders when we got there—I mean infested. We appreciated the gesture, but we slept in the van that night.
On December 21, The Scenery will be playing their fourth annual Christmas show at the Crimson Lounge in Riverview. “It originally started because we’d all come to visit home for Christmas... It was the only time of the year we could play a hometown show. The Christmas show is unquestionably Photo M.G. Nader my favorite show of the year, every single year,” Anthony explains. You In the art of music, words like ‘tough’ and ‘grit’ can also catch them Dec. 30 at Simon’s in Allen Park. are usually reserved for bands with double kick Check out www.facebook.com/TheScenery or www. peddles, tattoos, and a mosh pit that follows them. reverbnation.com/thesceneryband for more on the The Scenery has none of those—except tattoos. band. Don’t let the beautiful music or faces of this IndieRock band fool you, though. It took a long journey for them to get here, literally and metaphorically: approximately 2,000 miles, over 4 years, and numerous out-of-state tours. While vocalist Anthony Daraban and his brother, drummer Matt Daraban, were living in Phoenix, they met bassist Russell Hatfield and decided to start a band. Coincidentally, all three were originally from South Eastern Michigan. Anthony recalled the formation, “After we met Russell and decided to get a band together I called Mike Freeland (lead guitar) who was skateboarding in Hawaii. He flew into Phoenix and lived there with us instead of going home.” They moved back to Michigan for family support while pursuing their musical endeavors. In 2011, The Scenery added a rhythm guitarist, Jennica Wahl, who was performing under the name Bye Bye Birdy. Founded in 2008, the band has been on multiple tours throughout the country so far, and life on the road is not always easy or sanitary. “One time we took a bath in the Mississippi River to save money. I’m pretty sure we would have been better off not showering. That water was nowhere near clean,” Anthony said. “We were also invited to stay at some 66 LIVE LIVE- DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM
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IN THE BEGINNING
Karin Elizabeth
In the Beginning… There is something about the violin. Almost everyone has a childhood memory that has to do with music, “My grandpa used to play the violin” or “My son wants to play the violin,” or whatever. For some reason, it is very special to people. It tugs at the “heartstrings,” if you will. And so when people see me play my violin, they come up to me and ask me questions like, “how long have you been playing?” and “How did you get started.” To tell you the truth, I feel weird talking about this since I don’t want to seem like I’m bragging, but the truth is I have had an entire classical music career before I began this one. So I guess I should answer all those questions, from the very beginning.
repeat it. Children’s ears are quite amazing; the area for learning language in your brain is the same area that you learn music in. I began formal Suzuki lessons at age four and my ear developed rapidly. I was soon featured on many live programs at a young age and due to my ability was considered a prodigy. I studied other instruments as a young child as well such as the cello and piano, at the Flint Institute of Music. I began playing in a youth orchestra at the age of six.
In school however it was a different story. In school you are expected to read music. Having had a lot of training on my ear, I could already play everything I needed to play; I just had to hear it. However if you sat the music in front of me I had to idea what I was looking at, and felt that I didn’t need to learn this skill because I was already playing high schoollevel pieces. I soon became very good at disguising the fact that I could not read. I would listen to my stand partner play the It sounds incredulous, but I actually passage only once, and then I was all set. started playing the violin when I was around This continued all the way to high two years old, still in diapers. My earliest school and beyond. I attended memories are of playing the violin. My many world-renowned arts Chinese Godmother, Shu Hou began to teach camps such as Blue Lake and me little by little, on a daily basis, along Interlochen on scholarship, with her sons, who were like brothers to me. and I even toured Europe My parents divorced around that age and and Canada with different my mother had a full-time teaching job and orchestras and choirs, all left me in her care all day and evening for by ear. I sang and played at basically my entire early childhood until I Carnegie Hall. In high school entered school. This was such a gift, as I had I began teaching younger a childhood filled with music. students and playing wedding ceremonies with my string There is a violin method for very young quartet. No one had any idea children called the Suzuki Method. If you except my teacher, who didn’t Google it, you will most likely see videos want to hinder my progress and pictures of very small Asian children with the frustrating process of th sawing away at their tiny 1/16 -size violins learning music. In college I and cellos, playing “Twinkle Twinkle Little was made to feel that this was Star.” The Suzuki method is based on the a huge handicap, and I had to same concept as language learning. If you repeat a word for a small child over and over, work very hard to overcome it. When I became a teacher, they will begin to repeat the word after you I made sure that my students in order to learn it. Suzuki works the same knew how to both read music way in that the teacher will play a simple and play by ear, so that no one passage and the child will listen to it and would ever have to go through
the suffering that I had to endure. For a very long time I was ashamed of my ear, and of myself and thought I lacked ability. Now after all these years, I realize it is the greatest, most significant gift I have ever been given. I feel sad for someone who has been trained in the archaic ways of the school system, who simply can’t sit in with a band and play along with what they hear. Many excellent classical musicians freeze up instantly when asked to improvise something, and claim that they “need the sheet music.” Why learn to play music then, if you can’t be creative? Of course there are many schools of thought that there is artistry in reading the music and playing what others have written, but I no longer subscribe to that notion religiously the way that I used to. Creating music is the most fulfilling thing I have ever experienced, hands down. Even just the act of playing a solo passage is the act of creation, the gift of life. I thank my lucky stars every day that I have been given the incredible gift of musical training at such a young age. Without music, for me, life would be pointless. I believe music is magic; it is a way to truly express your deepest emotions without using any words. When I play my violin, you can hear my heart sing.
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Benny & The Jets
By Benny Jet
Here we are another new issue of Detroit Live Magazine and www. detroitlivemagazine. com. I mention that in the first sentence so that when this column gets shared via social media everyone will know where it came from. For better or worse it is an iphone, facebook, YouTube, social media world. There is a Detroit Live Magazine facebook and a Benny and the Jets facebook. They are the kind of facebook pages you have to click on the LIKE. I like you, you like me, where a happy family. Oops… that’s Barney NOT BENNY. So in this little rock and roll social media aware column, lets see how many people, bands and topics we can touch on? If I mention Kid Rock and his new Rebel Soul CD (and his facebook) it will give Darian Counts a reason to run that photo of Kid Rock and yours truly. It is interesting how easy it is for Kid Rock and people like Big Sean, Jack White, Emimem, to get media coverage, yet local working bands have to beg and fight to get mentioned. Check out (via facebook and YouTube) major Detroit Bands, 50 Amp Fuse, Mega 80’s, Pistol Day Parade, Jill Jack, and Howling Diablos. They play lots of area clubs, concerts and festivals. They are on facebook and deserve media coverage! Let’s mention Infatuations, Remedy, Cruzin Jupiter, Cherry Octane, Christina Chris, Kaleido, WTF, Howard Glazer, Chain Reaction, Daniel Harrison and $2 Highway Band, Ray Street Park, Good Til Sunday, Bloody Mary, Mango Pie, Chillbilly Band, 5 Finger Discount, Rachel May, Broadzilla, Yankeville, and Bandura Gypsies, not because we can, because we should. Let’s add young radio and
Jeff and Rick Ray Street Park
Shock Wave to that list too. Great, local band. Also my sports friend, JT the Brick Tomm Looney, WDFN overnights very interactive facebook and twitter. Former Detroit Tiger great, Denny McLain and his partner, Ron Cameron, doing radio, TV and putting
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it on YouTube! Music man, rock promoter, author, Bob Harris, who wrote the book “Motor City Rock and Roll of the 60’s and 70’s. The Metro Wrestling Alliance and local wrestling star, Vinnie Scarboni, with up coming matches at Modern Skate and Surf, in Royal Oak, and looking for downriver locations. At the same time, we should mention some of the people supporting Detroit Live Magazine. The All Around, Hydrospot, New Skool Tattoos, Noir Leather, Quit-N-Time, Perfect Pitcher, J Dub’s, White Rhino, Crimson Lounge, Big League Brews, Simons bar and grill, the Grow Shop, and Mike Cary Music. We hope everyone understands, these people help make the DLM happen, which helps the music scene happen, which helps there business happen, which helps me, helps you, helps us all. Social media has changed the way bands make, record, sell, distribute, promote, music. Did you hear about the 12 year old girl who sang a little Thanksgiving song on YouTube? She got millions of hits, and with her social advertising deal made over $100,000. A kid with a home computer can do in minutes what the Beatles could only dream of. Did I mention Benny and the Jets Band has a Christmas CD and YouTube? If you search YouTube Benny Jets Twist, you should find it. See the band or Photo Kimmik Photography me solo Tuesday’s at the Fiddle BIKINI Bar in Wayne. Thursday’s acoustic open mic at the Redford Moose on 5 mile. Friday’s at dinner show 5 till 9 pm at the Greek Island on 11 mile just west of Halsted in Farmington Hills, Third Saturday’s at Do Hickey’s bar and grill in downtown Wyandotte. For more information or to contact Benny call 313 730 1627 or E-mail Benejets@aol.com
Micki Cherry Octane Dave GTS
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Revolution of Rock
By Tiny Tim Cook
The Anthony Lai band
Hey folks, it’s holiday time again, I love this time of year. yeah I’m one of those geeks that gets all excited about Christmas, I can’t help it, that’s just me and anyone that knows me knows when I love something I tend to go overboard with it. Like my love of local music, last month I mentioned a bunch of new bands that have tickled my ear lobes with some awesome new sounds and one of them was Meet Me At The Skyline. Meet Me At The Skyline is a 4-piece pop/punk band from Southgate. They consist of Todd Ingram on lead vocals/guitar, Nick Murray on guitar, Joey Emery on bass/vocals and Michael Jovanovski on drums. They’ve already released a selftitled EP consisting of 5 great tracks including the antibullying anthem “Untitled” and “Social Suicide”. Influenced heavily by Blink 182, All Time Low and A Day To Remember they continue in the pop/punk style of having a great time on stage and making sure the crowd does too. I am beyond proud of these guys, I as a promoter deal with a lot of egos and primadonnas but these guys are the anti-bitches of the local music scene. They could teach many of the “bigger” Detroit bands a thing or two. If you get a chance you have to check them out I promise you will not be disappointed. Meet Me At The Skyline are the new Detroit standard. Featuring members of The Wall Clocks, The Anthony Lai Band sounds like a new, yet unchanged version of The
Beatles. Recently at a show at Simons featuring Sounds & Scenarios, Bristol Street and The Tiny Water Flea Clocks; all great jam-type bands in their own right; The Anthony Lai Band might have stole the show in some folks opinions. What a great show, great bands, great night. All bands mentioned should be high on your listen-to-do-list. Would I lie to you? Coming up in December on The Tiny & Plankman Show; heard Sunday nights from 9pm to midnight on tapdetroit. com; our guests include Rose From The Ashes, Mr. Purps & The Absinthe-Minded, Death of a Hero, The In-Between and False City. Remember we are Detroit’s ONLY LIVE local music show. Time to go , hit me up at facebook.com/ tinytimrocks or follow me at twitter.com/tinytimrocks. Remember as always Earth, Soul, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Life Rules! - Tiny
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MEGYN HERMEZ W
hen you first meet the twenty-something singer-songwriter/ dancer there is a genuine Midwestern earnestness that breaks down barriers and is approachable and real—no diva type nonsense here! Hermez is making her breaks the hard way, by earning them! And one listen to her independently released CD Music is Music (soon to be re-released and marketed by Tate Music Group) reveals an artist that is truly diverse, open and poised for big things. Songs like “Stevie” and “Live in This Dream” explore a vast range of tuneful pop vocalizing and song craft. And her clever conceptual video and single “Anxiety” displays a flair for jazz, with a nod to Etta James and Amy Winehouse.
Detroit Live had the pleasure of recently sitting down with Ms. Hermez at a local coffee shop in Royal Oak to discuss her journey thus far and why she needs “chaos” around to fuel her daily moves. DLM: Can you tell me about the origin of your debut album and the single “Anxiety” and how it all came to be? MH: That’s a funny question. I was dancing with Charlie Wilson for two years. And I was dancing way before I was singing. I used to sing here and there. When I moved out to L.A. there were multiple auditions for dancers and singers. And I don’t know what happened but I went to the music director I was on tour with. I thought if I was ever gonna do it that would be the time. I don’t know what I was thinking when I asked him to produce a single for me, but I asked him. Three songs later I had my first record deal and I knew I was right for music. DLM: Who was this producer? MH: His name is Cordell Walton. He’s the music director with Charlie Wilson. He’s still on the road with him but I left. DLM: Who wrote the song “Anxiety?” MH: I wrote it. I didn’t write the compositions but I write the lyrics and vocal arrangements. But the composition and music production was done by Cordell. He’s brilliant with what he does. And writing always came naturally to me. When the two of us work, it’s like magical. We didn’t have to talk about what we’re both going for. We kind of just vibe off each other. We don’t even have to say a word. He’ll just start playing and I’ll start writing and all of a sudden a song is done. DLM: Wow, that’s great when that can happen. MH: Yeah, he’s great. I haven’t found anybody like that since. DLM: Where do you draw your inspiration for songwriting? MH: Honestly, just from past and current experiences. I’ve always been good with words so it’s however I’m feeling at the time. I can really relate to people. I can read feelings and read energy so it’s easy to put that into words. I can look at those Christmas lights (looking out the window at a street display) and write a song about it. They just come to me, it’s weird. DLM: Is that a gift that you’ve had since you were very young? MH: Yeah, I started writing when I was nine years old. I remember walking home from school one day and lyrics just started coming to me. I probably have literally sixteen folders from the year 2000 until now of just writing. DLM: What are some of the early things that you wrote where you thought this sounds like something good! MH: It’s really deep, almost depressing. I’m really a happy person but when you’re growing up you never really know what you’re thinking. But I would write about all kinds of crazy stuff— feelings, relationships, family stuff. And, like, my generation, people have boyfriends at five, so…. (laughs). It’s always been deep thoughts. My aunts Photo by Brad Merritt
By Eric Harabadian and uncles always said I have an old soul. DLM: The bio on your website talked about dropping out of school at sixteen and having a somewhat disapproving family to your pursuing an entertainment career. MH: It was never really my family that disapproved. Of course they wanted me to finish, but at that point they knew I wasn’t the type of kid that wouldn’t be successful or be a dropout or burnout. I dropped out of school but I continued to dance forty hours a week. I was a professional dancer by the time I was seventeen years old. At seventeen I was working forty hours a week and working two jobs to help pay for dance. By eighteen I went to Spain to compete for the World Cup with the American Dance Company and took second place. So, I didn’t just drop out. I dropped out to dance. There was an attendance policy in school and I had already missed so many days. It was like an ultimatum between school and dance. I knew I wasn’t gonna do anything with school, right? DLM: You knew the direction you wanted to go in. How many people can say that at a young age? Seriously! MH: I think leaving school really early grew me up fast. I was on tour at nineteen and my friends were prepping for exams the next morning. I’ve just never been on the same page. I like what I chose. DLM: Let’s talk a little more about working with Charlie Wilson. That led to a number of TV appearances, didn’t it? MH: It was a Craigslist audition. I don’t know how this happened. I was like lost where MapQuest took me in circles. I was twenty minutes late to the audition. I didn’t wanna go in twenty minutes late. That’s so unprofessional. I know you at least have to be there thirty minutes early. But somehow I ran into this place anyways and I got a call back the next day. The whole audition was kind of a ghetto process. You had to pay ten bucks for the audition in this weird slummy area in Oak Park. I didn’t know where I was. None of this seemed legit. DLM: What year was this? MH: This was in 2009. I got a call the next day that I got the job dancing for Charlie Wilson. I said “who’s Charlie Wilson?” They said you know the guy who sang “You Dropped a Bomb on Me” by the GAP Band. I said oh that’s cool. But I really didn’t know what it was gonna lead up to. Well, a month later I’m traveling all around the United States—city to city. The ad had no details so I didn’t even know who it was for at first. I was just going on every audition I could find. We did appearances on Lopez Tonight, Wendy Williams, Monique, the 2010 Grammy pre-telecast, Steve Harvey Awards, all kinds of stuff. It was an amazing experience. It was a big production with Cont on pg. 20
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NO CLASS ASSASSINS By: Cheri Clair
merch store on our facebook page as well. Cheri Clair: That’s cool. Who does the writing in the band? Chris Stotler: We all write lyrics and music. Dave Kelsey: Yes, we all make sure we are all 100% happy with every riff, note, words, lyrics... even artwork. We are hoping to work with Aaron from Graphic Equlizer to get us on the road this coming February.
This online interview has been edited for clarity and continuity. Cheri Clair: Tell me about some of your shows... Where ya playin’ these days?
Jay Shurkey: We are hoping to work together and make this happen. We played a short, minitour this past August... our first time playing out of state... had a lot of fun. We know what it takes to climb the ladder. We just have to keep playing out and letting people hear our songs. Cheri Clair: Dig it. Who are some National bands you’ve played with? Chris Stotler: Suicide Silence, The Misfits, Obituary, ThrowDown, Bury Your Dead, All Shall Perish, Crowbar, Gwar, Mushroomhead, eyehategod are just a few.
Jay Shurkey: Well, we opened for Hatebreed and Whitechapel in October, and the Misfits in November . We are planning a tour this February, down to New Orleans Jay Shurkey: We won to play the 2010 Van’s Warped and back home. Hitting the major cities along the way. Tour, as well. It was on the Ernie Ball Battle Of The Bands 14 stage. A lot of people came out, it was a good Cheri Clair: Break it down for me: Who’s who? day. Also we just won the 11th Annual Independent Music Award for best Metal/Hardcore song, “Third Time’s Jay Shurkey: Jay is the vocalist, Dave is the guitarist, Not A Charm”, off of The No Class EP Chris plays bass, and Aaron is the drummer. We like to keep it four-piece because it helps everyone be more Dave Kelsey: We showcased for Rotten Records, won creative to make the music full. a spot to play Warped Tour 2010 at Comerica Park. Had ads in REVOLVER, HM and AP magazines. A lot of our Cheri Clair: Where can people but the No Class EP? info is on our facebook page... like our sonic bids link, Jay Shurkey: The No Class EP is available on itunes for which has our epk and most of our accomplishments. $4.95 and .99 a track.
Jay Shurkey: It’s also available on amazon mp3, myspace music, spotify... we have physical copies you can get from us and merch handlers at our shows for $6 (includes packaging and artwork/cd). Mixed & mastered by Mike Hasty, the guitar player in Michigan-based band Walls Of Jericho. It was produced & engineered by BJ Perry from local rock band The Product. The No Class EP is also available in physical form at Hot Hits in Roseville, as well as Foresaken Music & Videos in Taylor. Cheri Clair: How about merchandise? Jay Shurkey: You can get our t-shirts at Dancing Devil Dermagraphics in Marysville MI, and Sarenity Apparel tattoos-n-piercings at Birchwood Mall in Fort Gratiot MI for $12. They are also available at our shows along with stickers. We do paypal for merch as well. Check the
Cheri Clair: Good stuff. Everybody should look it up. Dave Kelsey: We are more than just your typical band. We are four friends that have love and respect for each other, like family or even more...we are brothers. Our music is all from the heart. Our lyrics are 80% or more the truth of stuff that has actually happened to all four of us. We are a new revolution in the making. Our success and accomplishments have come from the fact that we remain humble and stay true to ourselves. We do not follow trends or write music to please others. We write music that pleases us four, and if what we create happens to please others, then awesome! www.facebook.com/cheri.detroit www.facebook.com/noclassdave DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM - LIVE 19
the band and dancers, choreography, lots of colors, it was really cool! DLM: So, you moved out to L.A. in 2009? MH: 2010. I moved out a year after the tour. I was still on the road but my friend called me from L.A. and said I need a roommate in three weeks. I was like, alright. I always wanted to move out there anyways. I literally booked a one way and three weeks later I was in L.A. I don’t really know what I was going for. I wanted to dance for a bigger artist than Charlie. Music wasn’t really in my head at that point. I just wanted to leave. I was ready for a change so I packed up and left. My parents weren’t too happy about that. DLM: Can you talk about that? MH: My dad was so in denial for a long time about it. But I wasn’t there too long. I came back. DLM: What were you’re experiences like living out there? MH: After a month of living with my roommate, it just didn’t work out with her. I got my own place and it was really nice for the next year. But after I left the tour it was really bad and super depressing. I wasn’t on the road anymore, I had recently broken up with a boyfriend I had for four years. I started working at a store on Sunset Boulevard till 3am and had to take the train from North Hollywood to Sunset and back with all kinds of whack jobs. And I was just turning twenty one. When I look back on it now I could probably write a book because it was such a great experience. But at the time it sucked, you know? But it’s those things in life that give you perspective. DLM: And L.A. traffic is a trip (laughs)! MH: Oh yeah it is. That’s why I took the train! DLM: So, when did you move back to Michigan? MH: Last November. It’s nice here. I’ve gotten a lot done here and been able to collect my thoughts. But the entertainment is a catch- 22. It’s cool because it’s small, so it’s easy to connect with people, talk with people and get things done. But realistically there’s not enough opportunity around here to make the movement that I wanna make with my music. DLM: Tell me about your gig working with the Pistons? MH: I just auditioned this summer to dance for them. This is my first season with them. I’m with the D-Town dance team. We’re a hip-hop dance team. I’m there at every home game. There’s like rehearsals almost every other day, if not every day. There’s new artists coming in for half times and it’s a really serious schedule. But I know that it can do great things for my music. And I love to perform, so it keeps me performing and it keeps me busy, which I like. We put together big productions for the half time. It’s only a five minute performance but they bring in the whole nine, with costumes, lights, props and major artists that come in. DLM: Are there a lot of opportunities here for dancers? MH: Not really. Dancing for the NBA is one thing and there are studios where you can train and so forth. But performance-wise there’s really not much. But I’m okay with that because dancing is what I do for a living, but it’s not something I aspire to do for the rest of my life. The dancing is gonna fall into place with my music. DLM: So you see yourself now more as a singer? MH: Absolutely! I’m a well rounded performer. I see my whole show to be a Vegas type of show, with lots of dancers, maybe stilt walkers, a full orchestra behind me. Of course, we might need to start with a manager, first (laughs). DLM: This might seem rather obvious, but how do dancing and performing music complement each other? MH: Well dancing complements the singing in a performance if you have the right kind of music to put the movement behind it. And the songwriting is just an extra bonus, I think. When I’m working with labels or other artists there’s never a time where they have to call or hire a songwriter. There may be collaborations but that’s just something that I do. And being a dancer helps too because I don’t have to hire a choreographer because I’ve been doing this all my life. I also do costume design and my video was styled and directed by me as well. DLM: What kind of music do you like? MH: I’m into everything, and I think that comes with being a dancer. I literally can listen to Alice in Chains, to Amy Winehouse, to Brittany Spears—anything that feels good. DLM: Where have you performed with your band around the Detroit area? MH: I’ve played Goodnite Gracie’s, The Pike Room in Pontiac, The Mars Bar in Hamtramck. They’re just local bars, not super huge places. But I’m kinda over it. I want to expand my following and open up for bigger acts and introduce new people that never heard of me to my music. The Royal Oak Music Theater or DTE would be really nice. DLM: Now you’re originally from Novi. You left for a little while and now you’re back. What’s your assessment of the local music scene at this point in time? MH: There’s not much to it. There’s not enough going on around here. I love chaos and being busy all the time. I think the city has a lot of potential but there’s just not enough of it. Like, I’m signed with a talent agency The I Group, and I should be going on auditions every day. I just don’t get called very much. I know I can market from anywhere so I’m not gonna move again. I’m just gonna stay here for a while and make it take off. But I do wanna travel again! Megyn Hermez is available on all the standard social networking sites and @ www.megynhermez.com . --Eric Harabadian
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Photo MG Nader
ALL AROUND BAR Recently one of those, “once in a great while” experiences occurred. Last month when SALIVA agreed to do a show at The All Around bar I was a pleasantly surprised. It’s always great to catch a national band in a small venue. (I once saw Quiet Riot at the Token Lounge). Mike from Jamheads.com put together a fantastic local line up to get the show going. Ray Street Park, Cherry Octane and members of Pistol Day Parade ignited the capacity crowd. At exactly 11pm Saliva took the stage and sounded pretty much exactly like the album. Seeing them do “Click Click Boom” and “Ladies and Gentlemen” from about 10 feet away (and having it sound right) made for a hell of a Thursday night, Granted, while physically I was just bobbing my head and playing a little air guitar, rest assured, inside my head, I was moshin’ like a 17 year old on moms insurance. It was a great show and it was brought to you by JAMHEADS.COM D.Counts You can see Saliva this summer at ROCKAPALOOZA and you can see Ray Street Park at The All Around Bar New Years Eve!!
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choice cuts
There is nothing really exceptional or out-of-the-ordinary about this live concert film from 1988. It’s Gregg Allman’s solo band performing a lean 52 minute set at a place called The Cannery in Nashville. There are no DVD extras like interviews or bonus footage either. What you do have is Allman and company doing what they do best—laying down superb, unparalleled blues-drenched southern rock, with just a hint of fusion. The leader was hot touring to support his I’m No Angel release at the time and the band was stalwart, unfaltering and totally spot on! Choice Cuts –Dec. 2012 Allman delivers his classic world-weary rasp of John Kachnowski, Squeeze (www. a voice with passion and well-measured verve. reverbnation.com/johnkachnowski ): And his Hammond B3 work is focused and Detroit area trombonist/vocalist/ ever present on perennials like “Statesboro multi-instrumentalist/songwriter/producer Blues” and “One Way Out.” But, perhaps, the Kachnowski has been a member of several MVP of the night has to be “Dangerous” Dan prominent ska-based groups, including The Toler on guitar. From jazzy rhythms to rough Exceptions, The Articles and Gangster Fun. But hewn soul licks this guy is certainly one of he’s also displayed his versatility and range rock’s most underrated axe slingers. Overall a as a classically-trained symphony musician as very accomplished program! well as first call sideman and session player. On his latest release he employs all those combined talents to create an eclectic mix of quirky rhythms, biting humor, slinky beats and lean, visceral arrangements. Opening track “Looking for Loopholes” leaps out of your speakers and smacks you with a one-two punch. Clever, thought-jarring observations on human nature make you smile as the song’s insistent herky jerky grooves go straight for the feet. Title track “Squeeze” features intricate interwoven horns that blend perfectly with Kachnowski’s urgent Joe Jackson-like delivery. There are also reggae moments on “Eyes of Blue” and an amusing tribute to TV dinners, with the tune “Swanson’s.” Nine cuts Sheila Landis & Rick Matle, Heart Plaza in all, a nice overview from one of southeast (SheLan Records, SL023): Michigan’s true originals!
Gregg Allman, I’m No Angel: Live on Stage (DVD, Cherry Red Films, CRDVD182):
By Eric Harabadian
horns on this track are a revelation. Michael Clarence Jones’ “Hart Plaza” is a sweet shout out to the beloved Detroit riverfront locale. And the afore-mentioned homage is reverently paid to Edward Kennedy Ellington in “The Duke” and Ella Fitzgerald in “First Lady.” Landis utilizes her voice in a myriad of fresh and unorthodox ways that continue to inspire while Matle keeps one foot in traditional styles and one step beyond. Highly recommended! The Replacements, Color Me Obsessed: A Film About the Replacements (DVD, MVD Visual MVD5533D):
Ah yes, The Replacements! They were that infamous Minneapolis band that came to prominence during the heyday of indie rock in the ‘80s. Many would say that they were one of the first bands that truly defined the genre as we know it today. “Bastards of Young,” “Here Comes a Regular,” “I Will Dare,” and “I’ll Be You” were just some of the MTV staples that helped put them on the map. They were known for being quite unpredictable, for reasons ranging from what brilliant rock covers they would attempt in a particular live set to how much they had to drink before a show. And it’s that roller coaster of myth and legend that is the basis of this documentary Award-winning Detroit area jazz by writer/director Gorman Bechard. He is musicians, singer-songwriter/vocalist Sheila obviously a fan and that fervor for the band Landis and guitarist Rick Matle perform comes through from the very first frame. a series of poems set to music. They are But this is not your typical rock doc! There is accompanied by bassist John Lindberg, drummer/percussionist Dennis Sheridan and not one snippet of concert footage, original band member interviews, or a conventional legendary Detroit titan Wendell Harrison Replacements soundtrack included for that on clarinets and saxophone. Landis and matter. The story is told through those that Matle have been fixtures on the Detroit and Midwestern music scenes for well over thirty knew the band best—roadies, managers, record store retailers and personal friends. years and always bring something creative, There are also rock and film celebrities that entertaining and cutting edge to the table. chime in with their band recollections like But, in doing so, they remain faithful to the actors George Wendt, Tom Arnold, Dave main precepts of jazz, which are to make it swing and always pay homage to those in the Foley and musicians from Husker Du, Goo music that came before you. The opening track Goo Dolls, The Hold Steady and Babes in Toyland. Rock n’ roll scribes like Legs McNeil “Jazz” couldn’t be more emphatic of those principles. Elisabeth Romatz’s poem about the and Robert Christgau contribute with their humanization of the improvisational art form affection for the group as well. And, despite comes alive via Landis’ elastic and expression- the obvious absence of the band itself in the film, it works! Whether you were a fan of The filled vocals. Matle follows suit, with an ingenious palette of tones, colors and melodic Replacements or not, one can’t deny that Bechard has created a fascinating work and ideas to fully complement the complex, yet a fine tribute to a group that influenced a open arrangement. Landis’ own “Bag Lady” generation. really grooves, with a bouncy samba beat. Lindberg’s robust bass and Harrison’s wall of --Eric Harabadian
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CLAUDE VONSTROKE
By: Jason Stocker
In a music industry of pretentiousness and large egos, Claude VonStroke is a breath of fresh air. It is very apparent that he does not take himself too seriously and has managed to remain grounded, light hearted, and funloving. After seeing multiple Claude VonStroke sets, either in a club or at Movement, it is clear that he not only knows how to have a good time, but is also a master at maintaining the crowds’ spirits and feet moving during his sets.
has released countless successful tracks and played at all of the biggest clubs in the world, you could say that his plan worked out very well.
multiple genres, be full of strange sounding samples, nasty bass lines, and exhilarating melodies. All of this combined with the fun party vibe that Dirtybird parties are notorious for Though based in San Francisco, makes this a original experience that Claude always looks forward to coming is not to be missed. However, if your to his hometown of Detroit and has idea of entertainment is a party that said multiple times that Movement includes sitting in a VIP room with a is his favorite festival to attend and sweater on while drinking champagne, play. The Dirtybird Movement afterthen don’t even bother. Put on your parties have acquired a huge amount dancing shoes, dress to sweat, and of attention within the past few years prepare to shake your booty! and have been some of the best, if not Claude, who was born with the best, after-parties to attend. Unlike See you December 28 at the name Barclay Crenshaw, was raised his other sets in different cities, Claude Elektricity! Tickets can be purchased in the suburbs of Detroit. He began meticulously pre-plans and selects at clubtix.com/reactdetroit. Doors for his career as a filmmaker, eventually tracks that he will play in a Detroit set. the 18+ show are at 9:00. Go to www. making music seriously in 2003 after He selects music that goes with the facebook.com/Claude.VonStroke for producing a documentary called spirit of the city, so the prepared sets info and updates on the man behind “Intellect” where he travelled around are very unique to our local area. This the music. the world and interviewed some of was apparent during his recent set at the world’s best producers and DJs. ‘Paxahau’s 14 Year Anniversary Party’ He produced his own music for the in New Center Park in August. documentary and took the advice of Presented by His next scheduled visit the DJs that he talked, leading to the to Detroit comes on December 28 creation of Dirtybird Records after for a special three hour extended moving to San Francisco and making set hosted by REACT at Elektricity friends with The Martin Brothers. It Nightclub in Pontiac. Expect an was this experience that set the tone MAGAZINE for the rest of his career. Now that he exciting and inspiring set that will bend LIVE 25
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White Trash Freeway’s Open Jammer of the month: YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR MEDICAL MARIJUANA NEEDS
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So Much to Do, So Little Time:
The CEO of Star Factory, one of the mostrenowned artist development companies in the country, sits down to discuss his motto, how he got started, what he thinks all artists should know and much more…
BRANDON SMITH
to do.” This is where the idea for Star Factory began. He knew that if there had been a place to get some kind of training and guidance for his development, his journey would have been much easier. “I knew of someone who did artist development but had never really seen the results so I decided to make that happen. I opened the doors to Star Factory in 2005.” He didn’t have any formal business training…only the curriculum. Does he think that college or more education would have helped? “Yes, I think that’s the reason I do all these school tours about life after college, because you have to find your passion and it takes a lot of planning…going to school for business or management would have helped but I don’t regret it because maybe if I had, I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing now.” Well, what are you doing now?
Let me introduce the bare minimum crew, aka the half-steppers. Hi, my name is track and field competitor. I usually run close to my best, skim past the hurdles and lollygag to the finish line. I’ve never won any metals and have no accolades what so ever. Hi, my name is police officer that sits in the car on the freeway and just reads the newspaper. I never help catch criminals or do anything worthwhile in my community. I wonder why I’ve never received a promotion. And don’t forget me…Hi, my name is full of potential, Smith has just talented, yet lazy singer. I show up late to started his own label, the studio and never rehearse. Why aren’t I Star Factory Music successful? Group, “now I can work with whoever “Good enough is not good enough,” says I want. The artist Brandon Smith. His motto speaks volumes development aspect to the work ethic of many people who of it is already set assume that you can do nothing or just put so it will be easier to forth a little bit of “good” effort and it’ll market and promote take you far. He goes on to talk about how the artists the way I everything that you do, each task, has to want to.” The label be completed to the fullest extent and to is just a small part your highest potential every time. “I buried of the puzzle, Smith myself in the basement for like 3 years until has been asked to I became a master at creating (music). I feature as an artist didn’t know it was that important at the development expert time, but now that I look back, you have to on a new show become a master at what you do before you called Before They put yourself out here.” Were Stars that he describes as a cross Smith believes that your young, high school between Let’s Make years dictate what you’ll do for the rest a Deal, Apollo and of your life and in his case, it’s completely American Idol. He’s true. “I started writing songs and creating also working on a melodies my senior year in high school. musical entitled Girl After I discovered music, that’s all I wanted That Cried Love, “I’m
By: AJ Wells very excited about that, this is my first time doing something like this.” In addition, you can also look forward to Smith’s To the Top reality show and check out the movie, Why Do Men Cheat, for which he composed the score. And if you’re an artist and not sure where you are in your career and need a little direction, Smith has developed what he refers to as a point system for artist to live by. Another reason he considers and has branded himself the expert.
So what’s next for Brandon Smith? He’s had a client, Diamond White, featured in the top 13 on the hit, television show the X Factor and has success stories that include songs with Trey Songz and Nicki Minaj but he wants more. “I want to expand Star Factory and take it to the next level; open more locations. I’m a producer and songwriter, so I definitely want more song placements and I’m also writing a book.” Hopefully, he’ll be able to find the time, which he says is one of the biggest frustrations in his life. If you were just good enough, you’d have all the time in the world. Go check out starfactoryad.com for more details and to keep up with Mr. Smith and all his endeavors.
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SPIRITUAL HOROSCOPE for December by Aluna Michaels, M.A.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) – Happy birthday Sagittarius! You’ll have renewal in relationships. If single, you can start an exciting connection with a spiritual equal. If partnered, you’ll be able to resolve problems that keep you from bonding more deeply. Meditate on what you do have in common, and let fresh energy spring from there. If you have kids, find ways to include them in your spiritual practices, or talk about spiritual concepts together.
changes that could happen in relationships, career and health. Don’t be afraid to become a totally new you! Make this a month of spiritual adventuring too. Find different ways to meditate; explore religions and mythologies. Find a way to connect with the Universe that fits this fresh expression of your soul! But, be patient with people – you are a fearless pioneer, and it takes others awhile to catch up with you! Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – The Universe wants you to new levels of intimacy (I say this to you a lot, Taurus, don’t I?!) One of your spiritual purposes as a Taurus is to release old hurts and be in the present moment with others. Meditate to forgive the past. Write about your issues and then rip up the paper or burn it! Let the past go and embrace the NOW. Believe you are evolving and know it is safe to change!
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) – You’ll have breakthroughs about family “stuff”. You’re on your own spiritual path, no matter your family karma. Meditate to forgive old patterns, in yourself and in them. Even if holidays are stressful, observe dynamics and remember you can choose your behaviors. Don’t control anyone else, since they’re just doing their karmic dance, and are probably happy doing it! Fortify yourself with extra sleep, because your dreams will give guidance. Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) – Even if you can visualize wonderful solutions and exciting options for your life, as well as for friends and family, they may not be ready to follow your enthusiastic vision. Instead of selling your ideas, focus on the supportive people that are “on your page”. Next month, other loved one will begin to follow your lead as they observe you walking your talk. Also, if having trouble Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – This meditating, add movement – yoga, tai chi – will be a fun holiday month! You could meet even walking mediations will help. a love interest if single. If partnered, it will be a time of falling in love all over again. Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) – You’ll Meditate on gratitude for the wonderful have breakthroughs with money and career! things in your life this year. You’ll get You’ve been waiting for good changes to involved with new activities and have lots of happen, and this is your time! You could exciting interests – so even more cool people get a new job, promotion or raise. A new will be in your life starting now and through co-worker could reignite your passion for this upcoming year! your current position. Be open to different ideas about how to manage your finances. Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – If Investigate investments, personal budgets, you’ve been waiting for a new job, or or even hobbies that can bring in cash. exciting changes in your current one, this is Remember money is a spiritual energy and your month! Your window of opportunity the Universe wants you to prosper! might not be long, so don’t procrastinate because you fear change. Jump right in when Aries (March 21 – April 19) – you feel a twinge of excitement in your belly Exciting Uranus goes direct in your sign, (you could call it anxiety, but excitement helping release old concepts of yourself feels the same way!) These changes could that hold you back! Meditate and visualize also come about in relationships, so open 28 LIVE - DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM
your heart and take a chance! Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) – A new relationship could be starting! If partnered, have a Zen “beginner’s mind” and look at your partner with new eyes. Pretend you’re in the early stages of love and see how that transforms both of you! Spiritually, you’ll fall in love with spiritual disciplines. Explore new avenues of faith and soul connection – or recommit to your current path and experience renewing and deepening. Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) – Your challenge is to start present. Don’t drag old memories or past reaction patterns into current situations. Meditate to uncover, forgive and release family “stuff” and old romantic wounds. Also forgive issues around money, with others, with corporations, or with yourself. When you quit beating yourself up – or punishing others in your mind, you’ll see brand new options that are surrounding you abundantly! You’ll also be able to discern opportunities from foolish choices with money and love. Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) – If partnered, together you’ll overcome problems you’ve had since summer. Meditate to forgive and release the past so you can move ahead unencumbered. If single, a new bond can start! Even if it’s not long lasting, it will bring you excitement and insights. In general, try to be “out of your box”. Be in the moment without overanalyzing. You’ll be able to draw more conclusions late January. For now, just go with the flow! Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) – Pay more attention to your body. You can be in such a spiritual mode that you feel you shouldn’t have to deal with the physical realm. This is a great time to make changes to your eating, exercise or stress-reduction. When your body is “tuned up”, you can better “tune in” with your soul. Your body isn’t a clunky bothersome thing you drag around with you. It is the training ground for your spiritual evolution. Please respect it! Aluna Michaels is a secondgeneration astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than two decades. Her book “Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs” is now on Amazon in Kindle version. Ms. Michaels is available for appointments in her home or by phone. Call (248) 583-1663 or visit
www.alunamichaels.com
Kaleido
Kaleido’s Christina Chriss at the Magic Stick
Photo MG Nader
Last Month one of Detroit’s hottest new bands Kaleido pushed the Magic Stick to capacity crowd with their CD release party. Supported by Citizen Zero this show was one of the biggest shows of the 2012. Joined on stage by downrivers own Ty Stone, lead vocalist Christina Chriss amazed the crowd. Regular readers of Detroit Live will recognize Christina from the early days of the magazine. She has been a regular feature and we’ve been proud to watch her and Kaleido take their place among future motor city stars. Detroit Live would like to congratulate Kaleido on a great show and wish them the best of luck in 2013. Pick up Detroit Live to see more about Kaleido in upcoming months. KALEIDO’s debut EP NOW available on iTunes & Amazon!!
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60 SECOND CRUSH SAYS FARWELL In fact the band has licensed their music to over 50 TV shows, most recently “Man V. Food” (Travel Channel), “That Metal Show” (VH1) and “Road Rules Challenge” (MTV). 60 Second Crush’s demise is bittersweet. The 5-piece that includes lead singer Tom Harman, guitarist Peder Seglund, guitarist Brent Hall, bassist Dana Forrester (who also plays in electro fetish band Crud), and drummer Ryan Schimming is a close knit group. Harman has decided to hang up his microphone after the “Last Rites Tour”. The rest of the group is looking forward to exploring new music ventures. “We’ve played to thousands of people, from taco stands in Chicago, skate parks in Pittsburgh, strip clubs in Buffalo to barges on Lake St. Clair. It’s been a wild ride!” explains guitarist Peder Seglund. “Being in a rock band is a passport to adventure – and a license to be a perpetual adolescent,” adds Schimming. ” I wouldn’t trade it for the world!” 60 Second Crush’s music catalog is available on ITunes and CDbaby.com. For more information on the “Last Rites Tour” and the band, visit facebook.com/60secondcrush. This article brought to you by:
www.jeffsalbumreview.com
Photo Richard Blondie
After 15 years together, seminal Detroit hard rock band 60 Second Crush has decided to call it quits. The band has three farewell shows planned in December as part of their “Last Rites Tour.” Fans can bid adieu to the three-time winners of Detroit Music Awards “Outstanding Hard Rock Act” at the Magic Bag Theatre in Ferndale on December 7 (Superlast’s CD release party), Ann Arbor’s Blind Pig on December 15, and The Crimson Lounge in Riverview (opening for BobaFlex) on December 28. Formed in 1997, from the ashes of popular Motor City rock bands the Motor Dolls, Brothers from Another Planet, and Down with Hatred, 60 Second Crush’s career has been nothing short of stellar. The band rocked two acclaimed showcases at Austin, Texas’ SXSW, performing for Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx, and garnering serious interest from Octone Records (who at the time were launching a then unknown band called Maroon 5!) 60 SC went on to perform at Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (three times), and headline legendary venues The Viper Room (Hollywood) and CBGB’s (New York City). Not content to perform stateside, the band took its energized live show overseas – rocking two successful tours of Germany and Amsterdam. 60 Second Crush even brought their bone crunching Detroit rock to Mexico during Y2K. Back in their hometown, 60 Second Crush has played every major festival, most notably Arts, Beats and Eats (7 times!), Dally in the Alley, Detroit Bike Week, Detroit River Days, Jobbie Nooner, Woodward Dream Cruise and the Motor City Music Conference. With four acclaimed CDs under their belt, including their 2012 release “Seven,” 60 Second Crush’s music is frequently heard on TV. 30 LIVE - DETROITLIVEMAGAZINE.COM
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