april 2012 dlm

Darian Counts Presents

Danielle Car www.detroitlivemagazine.com

Cover photo by Jeffrey Pask

Lemme , Andrew WK, danielle Car Candlebox, Bennyand Bob , the black Keys , The Eli Young Band & lots lots more

2 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 3

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CONTENTS

DETROIT LIVE MAGAZINE APRIL. 2012

COVER

SIGN UP FOR DL DIGITA L HERE! Editor / Publisher Darian Counts Media Liason Senior Photographer M.G. Nader Matt Dolinar Sales: Darian Counts Brad Simon Photgraphers: M.G. Nader, Merideth Gillhespy

shinedown DANIELLE CAR

Contributors: Benny Jet Bob Harris, Eric Harabadian, Darian Counts Merideth Gillhespy Graphic Design: Darian Counts, Brad Simon

the Eli Young Band

Cover Photo Jeff Pask Editing: Donna James

LEMMY KILMISTER FROM MOTORHEAD

Dick wagner

The Black Keys click here rates and specials

Sam Shirwin Copyright 2011- 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!

ADVERTISE IN DETROIT LIVE MAGAZINE or e-mail dariancounts@detroitlivemagazine.com

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4 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

bAND pAGES? bLOGS,?MUSICIANS cLASSIFIEDS

Benny & Bob

CHOICE CUTS April HOROSCOPE By ALUNA MICHAELS

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 5

For Danielle Car, forward motion sometimes comes from taking your foot off the gas just a bit. For years she fronted the country band “Derringer” at one of Michigan’s best known country bars, Diamondback saloon. Working the cover scene Wed. thru Sunday can be an uplifting/draining chore/accomplishment. But after almost 900 performances Danielle decided to take redirect her efforts into her original music.

For years Danielle was heavily involved in the Michigan country scene. You could catch her 4-5 nights a week at Diamondback saloon. She performed at every Hoe Down, Harley Davidson event and country music festival she could find , then in 2008 she decided it was

Music has always been a big

part of Danielle’s life. Growing up in a first generation Italian home saturated with everything from Pavarotti to Neil Diamond to Air Supply.

Danielle quickly found her love for music and performing. Musical theater in high school lead to EMU as a vocal performance major. Her time performing in high school and at EMU took Danielle to the place where all country artists eventually end up, Nashville.

Her “crash course “ in the country music capitol gave her enough faith in her ability to feel that performing was something she could do for a living. But unlike most of the millions of country artists who have become semipermanent Nashville residents, Danielle felt she could build her career in her home state of Michigan.

6 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

time to focus on her original music. As she puts it. “It was great to perform at the Diamond back, but eventually I looked around and realized there are four hundred people here, but they’re not here to see me they are here for cheap beer and .25cent chicken wings.”

It was at that point she decided it was the time to change the direction of her career.

See Ben at the Detroit Music Awards April 27th

Danielle Car In 2008 she made a break with Derringer and teamed up with producer Chuck Alkazian. Consistently readers of Detroit Live are fully aware that behind some of the best Detroit as well as national recording artists is Chuck Alkazian. She and Chuck began working together in the studio with Brian Lords to create a 5 song EP that stands toe to toe with anything topping the country charts today.

The combination of Chucks production, top shelf musicianship and Danielle’s vocal talent and song writing skills are evident on every beat of every measure of her Debut release.

Danielle music has an uplifting energy that’s sassy and concise. True, she comes from fine Italian stock but you wouldn’t know it to hear her play. When I asked how

a bella Italian girl ended up singing country songs she had this to say: “country is a relate-able genre it speaks to every one. It’s a bout telling a story that we all can relate to.’ and she is right.

Influenced by country superstars like Dwight Yokom and the Mavericks, Danielle has put her heart and soul into her music..While it was evident to me that during our conversation she was more intent on delving into her new CD, I, as someone who hadn’t heard her entire previous album couldn’t help but be impressed by the feel of it. She has an authenticity and familiarity that give the impression that you’ve been listening to DC’s music your whole life. Songs like “Pretty Please” and “Hazard to My health“ highlight her song writing skills as well as the richness of her voice.

The Song “ Biggest Mistake” undeniably puts front and center the velvety softness of a voice that has the perfect combination of natural talent and years of practice. Performing her own acoustic guitar, fiddle and banjo Danielle is truly the real country deal, she’s like a fine slice of Americana.

“We’re Huge in Europe.”

by Darian Counts

In addition to her music being played on WYCD as well as the Detroit Live Show Danielle’s music is making an impact all over the world, last summer she topped the charts of Austria and can be heard on the cable tv’s Music Choice channel. She has also released a Christmas single called “ Save Your Cookies For Me”. Danielle is a great example of Michigan talent, persistence and charm, we see great things in her future and look forward to watching her career take off this summer.

Get a copy of her self titled CD and watch for her Performing throughout the Midwest.

www.daniellecarmusic.com

Feb 2012 7

By Eric Harabadian

/

Photo by Merideth Gillhespy

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J. DUB’S

photographer MARV GOLDSCHMITT

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Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 9

Benny Jet

By Benny Jet & Bob Harris

which has a swinging live music scene, and includes Jack White’s headquarters, Third Man Records.

From Memphis I headed west to AZ, Grand Canyon, Vegas, (Vegas famous for live music 24/7) LA (the sunset strip is only a small part of the LA scene, did some gigs in Pasadena with Sugar Ray), note Pasadena had a collage town fell and lots of live music. Then back to AZ and played some outdoor festivals (very cool) back through Texas (Amarillo has a place called the Big Texan with a 72 oz steak and if FREE if you can eat it within an hour) got back to Memphis and decided to go to New Orleans!

Turns out New Orleans may be the music capitol of the world. We all love Detroit, and often hear stories about Austin Texas, LA, and Vegas, but New Orleans, the French quarter, of acoustic songs, told some stories, and Bourbon Street, is the closest Hi All. Yours truly, Benny, from many of his travails with Kid Rock, thing to Woodstock, I have ever Benny and the Jets band, along with took time to say hi to everyone, pose seen. Live bands on every corner, my partner Bob Harris. We write for photos, and sign autographs of thousands of people on the streets, this column for the Detroit Live his new CD American Style. yes some showing their boobs! This Magazine. We usually try to yak goes on for blocks and blocks and about local bands, things to see and

blocks. It seems most cities have a do here in out Detroit area. Plenty of Magazines write about Slaughter- If you have been on FACEBOOK house, Machine Head, or Kiss, and (and www.detroitlivemagazine.

Aerosmith. We would rather write com) lately we hope you have seen about local bands Sykofish, Pistol the Detroit Live Magazine (and the Day Parade, Killer Flamingos or Ty Benny and the Jets) pages. We really Greektown type area, a cool place Stone. hope everyone will help share, like to hang out, maybe see some bands, and link the digital edition of the

but none compare to Bourbon Street. magazine.

Put it on your list of things to do.

Speaking of Ty Stone, Wow seems Yours truly, the guy with the beard, like he was on every cover of ev who plays guitar in Benny and the ery area magazine. Including last Jets band, still recouping a bit from OK, so now I am back in town. months issue of Detroit Live Magathe west coast swing. I mentioned Playing live, Tuesdays, at the Fiddle zine. I went to his meet and greet at in last month’s column, I did a bit BIKINI bar (hmmm kind of reminds the Allen Park, Meijer store, and it of a solo tour. Started out in Nash- me of New Orleans and I would love was great. Several hundred Ty Stone ville, where I bumped into Kid Rock to do some acoustic open mic there) fans, including many of his Lincoln (maybe I should remind the DLM Thursdays, at the Redford Moose on Park High School Alum, several people to run that photo of Kid and 5 mile (open to the public) and back family members and many area I ... you can never do that to often to looking for clubs, parties, and musicians. Mr. Ty played a couple LOL) then I was off to Memphis,

events, to perform at! Hint if you know of a club, parties, or event that could use my Benny and the Jets band or Benny SOLO, let them or me know.

P.S. My friend JT the Brick, does the sports radio show, has a segment called Music Mondays. Last week he played Koniption Fit. I was looking for their web site or FACEBOOK to tell them I heard them. I thought someone, maybe Detroit Live Magazine, should have a HUGE link page for all Detroit Bands! I came across www.Madmanmike.com local area DJ and all around cool guy, and what a cool site! Here are a few bands he mentioned in just the first section of his page.

& Bob Harris

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Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 11

Story by Darian Counts

materialistic matron, Madonna.

Her Maverick records quickly In the late 80’s the signed the band to a four remost well known cord deal. rock scene in the country was in Se- The 90’s attle Washington.

Candlebox’s debut self Bands like Pearl titled album claimed ownerJam, Nirvana, STP, ship of the mid 90’s FM airSoundgarden and waves with hits like “You”, Alice in Chains “Change”, “Cover me” and burst onto the “ Far Behind” . Selling over national scene and four million copies and going rescued America multi-platinum the bands trafrom the grip of the jectory seemed to be locked on evil aqua-net inthe stars. But around the mid fused glam bands.

90’s something happened that One of the last slowed and ultimately halted bands to get thru the bands march towards the door before the stardom. That something as demise of the scene singer Kevin Martin states was Candlebox. was the rising popularity of While groups like artists like Alanis Morissette, Nirvana and Pearl Prodigy and the Deftones.

Jam were working Also being signed to Maverick overtime to estabRecords they began absorblish their counter culture street cred, Candlebox did what they do best.

They wrote great songs and put their heart and soul into every performance. It wasn’t long before the “powers that be” looked favorable upon the quartet and recognized them for the cash cow that they were and began process milking process. The primary diary farmer was the 80’s queen of debauchery, Michigan’s own The Backstory:

More than 20 years have passed since Candlebox emerged from the infamous Seattle “grunge” scene to sell millions of CD’s all over the world. Since that time original members Kevin Martin, Peter Klett, Scott Mercado with the addition of Adam Kurry and Sean Hennesy have engaged in a battle on more than one front. Many readers of Detroit Live are musicians, as such 12 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

we practice, write and perform just as a national touring band, with the small exception being fame, wealth and groupies(or the lake thereof).

While striving for success can be a frustrating task; we can only imaging the frustration of achieving what we would consider success yet still having to fight the battle for your piece of the pie.

Photos by Matt Dolinar www.getmadbaby.com

ing the resources of the label turning Candlebox into the red headed step child of Maverick records. While the release of their next album Lucy achieved gold status, the broad based support of the album was dwarfed by its predecessor, causing Maverick records to double down on their support of the emerging 90’s artist and turn their back on Candlebox.

The bands next release happy pills received luke warm reception from radio stations and subsequently fans and seemed to punctuate the descent of the band. Around this time the bands frustration with the Maverick records had peaked and they were seeking release of their four CD contract. Several years of dissatisfaction combined

with the underperformance of the bands 2nd and 3rd albums led to the complete disbandment of Candlebox. But that’s not the end of the story.

Maverick records, unwilling to accept the bands breakup considered frontman Kevin Martin , the responsible party and decided not to release him from the contract and held him soley financially liable for the last record of the four record deal. Unwilling to bear the brunt of the material girl backed labels assault Candlebox went on “Hiatus” a round 2000.

The return.

In 2006 the idea was proposed to do a ‘best of “ CD”.

Founding members Peter Klett and Kevin Martin both agreed and brought original drummer and bassist Scott Mercado and Bardi Martin back into the fold and the new old Candlebox began to re-emerge. Eventually Bardi Martin left the band and was replaced by current bassist Adam Kury. In 2008 the band release its first studio album in over a decade. “Into the Sun” hit the streets and sold over 14k copies within the first week.

A fans perspective:

like Arrow, Cover me, Blossom, in addition to the mainConsidering myself a Candle- stream favorites like Change box Conisuer I didn’t know You, and Far Behind just set what to expect from this the bar so high. The first song new release. The band had out of the box was “Stand”. I fallen off my radar over the immediatley recognized the previous decade and I was power, passion and melodic concerned that if this album excellence that I was hoping didn’t do well that this could to hear. Upon digging deeper be the end of the band. In ad- into the songs like Bitches dition I had so loved the first Brew, Miss you and Breath Candlebox album I felt that (esp Breathe) began to take nothing could compete with root in my musical psyche. what I considered its track After few weeks of permanent after track perfection. Songs Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 13

residence in my CD player the unthinkable happened. “Into the Sun” surpassed, at least in my mind, the bands debut release.

Around this time I had a chance to sit down and talk with lead vocalist Kevin Martin and get the inside dirt on the bands rise, fall and resurrection.

I asked Kevin how he felt about the bands, at that time, new release.

Say’s Martin. “I believe it’s by far our best work yet” and I whole heartedly agree. The bands latest CD “Love Songs and Other Musings” hit the streets in early April and judging by the quality of the first release, “Believe In It” we are on the precipice of a full Candlebox resurgence.

I had a chance to talk with Candlebox Guitarist Peter Klett to get his feeling son this new CD and says Klett,

“When we put out “Into the Sun “ in 2008 we were much more conscious of making a hard rockin’ “Candlebox CD” Since it was the first album after returning, but for “Love Songs and Other Musing” I really wanted to utilize other styles that would make the album much more appealing to different types of fans.

Also after working together for so long we have really figured how to best work together.

Knowing each other for all these years give

us more of a natural intuitive writing style and I think that combined with our willingness to try different genres and styles really makes this album stand out ”

Catch Peter, Kevin, Adam, Sean and Scott on May 19th at the Emerald Theater in Detroit

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Review and Photos by Merideth Gillhespy

Jammin’ for Joseph, Eli Young Band: March 1, 2012 – The Fillmore, Detroit, MI Eli Young Band joined the fight against Duchenne muscular dystrophy as the headlining act of the 4th annual Jammin’ for Joseph on March 1. All proceeds from this event went to support Team Joseph, a non-profit formed in 2008 around the fight of Joseph Penrod, who was diagnosed with the disease at the age of 5.

As one of the hottest country music acts of 2011, Eli Young Band was a huge hit in Detroit. The music and stage presence were incredibly engaging and made you feel like you were a part of the show. If you’ve been a fan of their music on the radio, seeing them live will make you an even bigger fan.

The whole band had a lot of energy and seemed to really be having a really great time on stage. The crowd seemed to respond to the band’s energy and was really excited to be there. Country music concerts are almost always a good sing-a-long, and Eli Young Band was no exception.

The crowd sang along for most of the show, but the real high point was when they played “Crazy Girl,” their first #1 hit from their second major-label studio album, “Life at Best.” As the most requested song on country music radio in 2011, there wasn’t a person in the audience who didn’t know this song. The crowd as signing so loud that they almost overpowered lead singer Mike Eli’s vocals.

It was a great night and a great show for an amazing cause. Eli Young Band did not disappoint. I will definitely be looking to see what they do in 2012 and will be sure not to miss them if when they return to Detroit. Make sure you do the same!

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The Black Keys Story and Photos by Marc Nader

A little over three years ago my brother sent me a you tube video of two guys playing live at Grimeys Record Store in Nashville Tennessee http://youtu.be/Hcc07MyG1aU I was blown away and I have been hooked on this duo ever since. Yes I said duo, a two-man band with Patrick Carney on Drums and Dan Auerbach on Guitar and Vocals. The Black Keys are nothing but a hard driving, pure sounding Blues Rock band that has taken music, made it simple and has made it big.

It wasn’t to long ago TBK was playing very small venues across America all the while raising the eyebrows of not only fans but peers as well. Their style of heavy distorted Guitar licks and Heart pounding Drum lines has defined The Black Keys into a class of their own!

last month our very own Joe Louis Arena!

Although they band has added a bass player and keyboards for their latest tour the guys still revert to just the two of them during the mid portion of their show jamming tunes like the “Thickfreakness” and “I’ll Be Your Man”.

The Black Keys came to Detroit and did not disappoint one fan, they opened up with one of my favorites “Howlin’ for you” and closed with a three song encore “Everlasting Light”, “She’s Long Gone” and to remind us of what the Keys are all about, they performed their 3rd song “I got Mine” as a duo!

Their latest album “El Camino” has expanded the bands roots and is quickly becoming a fan favorite but I highly recommend listening The band formed back in 2001 and after a to their early work, it truly defines who The Black Keys are and why rock is blues and decade of commitment to raw sound and blues is rock!!! pure rock, The Black Keys are selling out venues like Madison Square garden and just

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18 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

MUTEMATH: March 2, 2012 – Saint Andrew’s Hall Some bands are able to record a brilliant record; some sound just as good live. Few bands manage to do both. Even fewer have

Mute Math: Review by Dave Gillhespy Photo by Merideth Gilhespy

It’s hard to pick out a favorite moment, but when they closed the show with “Typical” from their self-titled first studio album is probably my choice. When lead singer Paul Meany returned to the stage from wading through the crowd and sang with confetti bursting into the air, it felt like a culmination of the all of the frantic energy that had been moving between the band and the crowd for Bands often try very hard to make their show the entire show. feel personal, to make the audience feel like the band is really there to put on a show just for the crowd. MUTEMATH easily moves to the top of the list when it comes to reaching If you’ve ever felt tired of seeing bands that out and allowing the crowd to be part of the seem to all sound the same, do yourself a experience. It felt like the band played most favor and check out MUTEMATH the next chance you get. Not only is their sound of the show from out in the crowd. They unique, the way they experiment with their even kicked things off by moving through older songs keeps them sounding fresh, even the crowd, to the stage, under a string of if you’ve heard them countless times. The lights while playing “Odd Soul” from their level of creativity and talent is about as good latest album of the same name. as it gets in the music industry. If you missed them this time, don’t make the same mistake again. the kind of musicianship necessary to put on a show so good that their recordings never sound the same again. MUTEMATH is one of those bands. I have rarely been as engaged in a show as I was at Saint Andrew’s Hall on March 2nd.

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 19

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UMPHREY’S MCGEE Review and Photo by Merideth Gillhespy

May 12th, 2010 A.J. Doolittles Rod Stewart Tribute Show Starring Danny D & The Vagabonds Saturday, May 12th, 2012 – 7:00pm & 9:30 8525 Secor Road Lambertville, MI 48144 Make your reservations now by calling734-856-3838 Tickets: $15.00 www.DannyDLive.com May 18th & 19th, 2012 Blue Goose Inn Rod Stewart Tribute Show starring Danny D and the Vagabonds 28911 Jefferson Ave. St. Clair Shores, MI 48081 Friday & Saturday May 18th & 19th, 2012 9:30 - 1:30 am For more information call: 586-2940690 www.dannydlive.com May 24th, 2012 Detroit Rock n Fashion Hosted by Danny D & John Gnotek house band - Danny D & The Vagabonds UDetroit 1427 Randolph Detroit, Michigan 48226 Thursday May 24th, 2012 9:00 –11:00 pm www.DannyDLive.com May 31st, 2012 Detroit Rock n Fashion Hosted by Danny D & John Gnotek house band - Danny D & The VagabondsUDetroit 1427 Randolph Detroit, Michigan 48226

Umphrey’s McGee: February 18, 2012 – The Fillmore, Detroit, MI Whether you classify Umphrey’s McGee as jam band, prog rock, improv rock, or improg, in Detroit they were a musical explosion. Through two sets, Umphrey’s McGee never missed a beat. They are an extremely polished, highly original group. I had never heard Umphrey’s McGee before this show, but The Fillmore was packed with die-hard fans that could not be happier to be hearing them jam live. With every riff and solo, it felt like the crowd got more involved and wrapped up in the sound. The band also seemed like they were having the time of their lives. Bass player Ryan Stasik’s energy on stage was almost as entrancing as the guitar solos from Jake Cinninger.

I don’t usually enjoy jam bands or improv rock when it’s recorded, but live is a completely different experience. At times it was very mellow and made you feel like the crowd could float away on the sound. At other times the jamming was so intense and the solos continued for so long that I wasn’t sure if it would ever end, or that I wanted it to! It was a powerful, forceful night of music. The time between the first and second set was a welcome break from the intensity. Some bands try to pack a lot of songs into one set; Umphrey’s McGee takes a much different approach, playing fewer songs, but making each one really last.

The sets consisted of mostly original songs, but Umphrey’s McGee slipped a few covers into the mix, including Hall & Oates’ “Maneater,” and Kiss’ “Detroit Rock City;” something they tend to d every show.

The stunning light show, Star Wars toys on the amps, and two extremely tight sets made my first Umphrey’s McGee show a memorable one that certainly won’t be my last.

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 21

Spiritual Horoscope for March by Aluna Michaels, M.A. Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) – Happy birthday Pisces! Meditating on prosperity and finances can give intuitive insights about how to increase your wealth, or how to overcome debt or money issues. Check out “Dynamic Laws of Prosperity” by Catherine Ponder. Present romantic partnerships improve if you dwell on positive aspects and speak kind words about him/ her. If single, use the same principle for past people so you can attract a great new relationship!

Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Mercury is retrograding in your sign, so you’ll need a lot of patience! Meditation will yield many insights you’d miss if you were rushing ahead in word and deed! Try to tune into your body to see what health changes you could make.

You could have the courage to release a food or substance that you’re addicted/ allergic to. You might get an idea to start a new type of fitness program that has great physical and emotional results.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – You could be starting a new relationship, or making big strides in your current one. Meditate on how you can show your true feelings. Sometimes you express yourself so subtly, people miss your point. It’s also important to shower yourself with love and appreciation!

Meditate on how your can treat yourself better. Say kind things when you look in the mirror. Eat well. Enjoy time outside.

Get a massage. Show yourself you’re valuable!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – It’s time to ponder your friendships. Do the people around you truly understand you and support you? Are they just “fairweather” friends? Or can you share your deepest self with them? If you had difficulties in your family of origin, meditate to forgive those negative experiences.

Then you won’t need to subconsciously relive them by surrounding yourself with subpar pals!

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Don’t make any hasty decisions about work this month. A new job offer might not be all that it seems. Also, be careful about gossiping since what you say will come back to bite you in April! It’s a great time to make new friends who are high quality and on a spiritual path.

You need positive people who can give you alternative outlooks on situations.

Meditate and forgive people who’ve offended you over these past two years.

Your mind will clear and you’ll be able to make great choices (for work or relationships) next month!

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) – If your partner is open, begin a meditation routine together. Even a few moments of breathing quietly together can begin to bind your higher selves. This leads to less misunderstandings and bickering sessions. If single, don’t settle for anyone who doesn’t share your spiritual curiosity. Also, meditate on your own to let go of old limiting beliefs about relationships, so you can embrace the good stuff the Universe is sending you in the present!

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) – You could be starting a new relationship, or taking great leaps forward in your current one. This sounds terribly cliché, but you really need to love yourself before you can receive love from someone else. Meditate to forgive your flaws. You just need to be kinder to yourself. This means eating well, relaxing in the day (not running ragged), and thinking positive thoughts about yourself.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) – As Mercury retrogrades this month, you might be dwelling on times you were betrayed in the past. Please meditate to release these experiences. The people around you know could be very trustworthy, but you won’t rely on them.

Clearing out your heart will give you strong intuition, and help you let go of fears that keep you isolated. Make sure you exercise each day to move stale energy out of your body.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) – If you’re having trouble at work, be careful not to take things out on your partner. If single, watch out for gloomy thoughts about love. Meditate on your childhood, and how you may not have felt supported. The Universe is trying to give you a deep sense of stability, but first you must heal experiences where you felt the “rug was pulled out from you” emotionally. Healing these wound will help you feel less financial insecurity, and will also help you trust matters of the heart.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) – Mercury is retrograde and can cause misunderstandings at home this month.

It will help to meditate and get insights into how to make things better with family. I know you’re busy, but making time to connect with your soul will make your whole day run smoother.

Doing some organization or releasing of junk from your house or office will also change your mood.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) – It’s tempting to flip from one spiritual path to the next when things get boring or challenging. Yogananda famously said that this leads to “spiritual indigestion”.

Meditate to see if you want to make a change because you’ve truly spiritually outgrown a limited philosophy, or if you’re running from inner work. Sticking things out will give you amazing breakthroughs.

www.alunamichaels.com

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) – Your mind moves very quickly, but this is a great month to try to still your thoughts in order to make great leaps with your intuition. Let your developing higher mind blend with your tried-andtrue logical mind. Be patient, breathe and surrender when racing thoughts come, because they will! Relaxing your brain will make you more approachable in relationships. You’ll also be more able to surrender your heart and receive love!

Aluna Michaels is a second-generation 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 22 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 23

CHOICE

Laurie Horn, Rumpled Covers (www.lauriehorn.com ): After releasing two independent CDs of original rock, pop and country-tinged material Detroit area singer-songwriter Horn decided to put her unique spin on some of her favorite classic rock tunes. Foreigner’s “Double Vision” gets a jazzy redux, complete with some sexy sax by Eric Kot. The Eagles’ “Witchy Woman” retains the original’s mystic feel but has more of a world beat vibe. “Lovin’ Touchin’ Squeezin’” gets the jazz treatment as well and brings the bluesy mood of the Journey classic back to its essence. The Doors’ “Roadhouse Blues” is pretty straight ahead but a little lighter. Horn packs plenty of emotion behind the Badfinger ballad “Without You” by Harry Nilsson. Bryan Adams “Run to You” (the only track produced here by Ron Nevison) is pretty faithful to the original but Horn kicks it up a notch with her passion.

And speaking of passion, one might feel a little tingly after experiencing the electronica/ house/dub mix of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” Let’s just say this ain’t your momma or daddy’s version! It’s all superbly produced and engineered by Nick Dalbis who also played the majority of instruments. Horn does a great job of taking these very familiar pop/rock songs and making them her own. ###

Harper and Midwest Kind, Live at the Blues Museum (www.harper.biz): This disc is a prime example of what happens when sublime inspiration and diverse cultures collide; beautiful things can blossom! You’ve got Australian singer-songwriter Peter Harper paired with mid-Michigan musicians Matt Besey (guitar/vocals), Chris Wiley Smith (bass/djembe/vocals) and Scott Key (drums) for a performance that is riveting and truly one-of-akind! This is from a recent show recorded December 2011 in Windsor, Canada and features Harper and company at the peak of their powers. All of the tunes are Harper originals and, although he is considered a “blues” musician of sorts, none of the songs follow any traditional 12 bar cycles or patterns.

He infuses much of the material with hefty dollops of funk, soul and, even world beat elements. And many of the themes here deal with issues of spirituality, love, connectivity and enlightenment. In addition to his spellbinding acumen on harmonica, Harper also integrates the Australian horn-like instrument the didgeridoo into the mix for a captivating and haunting effect. ###

CUTS

Choice Cuts by Eric Harabadian

Chris Standring, Electric Wonderland (Ultimate Vibe UVR005): Standring is a contemporary jazz guitarist that captures the essence of the classic LA studio sound and updates it for modern ears. It’s a somewhat laid back sound that walks the path between chill and ambient territories.

He’s an amazing arranger and orchestrator as well as evidenced by tracks like “Almost September” and “All That Glitters.” A lot of pop and crossover styles utilize a ton of programming and synthetic sounds and, while some of that is apparent here, the use of a real string section for the orchestral parts is a revelation. There also is a brilliant use of organic and sequenced sounds on cuts like the heavily syncopated “Oliver’s Twist” and “Wishful Thinking.” What further adds to the relaxed feel of this record is Standring’s seamless Wes Montgomery meets Dennis Coffey technique; it’s the perfect storm! ###

The Beatles, et al., Strange Fruit (DVD, Sexy Intellectual SIDVD570): In 1967, after the success of albums like Rubber Soul and Revolver, the Beatles were doing very well financially and decided to retire from live touring in order to devote more time to studio work. Facing the specter of immense taxation that loomed over their heads in Britain at the time, they were advised to invest and diversify their assets. The Beatles decided to start a record label/publishing company and, hence, began the story behind the formation of Apple Records. Exhausted with the stodgy and staid practices of traditional major record labels, the Fab Four’s intent was to create a label that would be artist-friendly and about the music. Apple Records had a run from the late ‘60s through the early ‘70s and, in that period, signed quite an array of burgeoning acts, including James Taylor, Mary Hopkin, Jackie Lomax, Billy Preston, The Iveys and Badfinger. This is a fascinating view into the social and musical culture going on at the time and a thorough document of the arc and descent of a utopian business model.

162 minutes in length, this action packed film includes new interviews with members of Badfinger, The Iveys and Jackie Lomax, musician and Beatles expert Chris Ingham, MOJO magazine’s Mark Paytress and Apple biographer Stefan Granados. There’s also tons of archival footage, rare Beatles and related artists video clips and much more. An extremely well done film, indeed! ###

Photos MG NADER

Andrew WK

Click Here to read Adams Grahams Blog about Andrews recent performance at Saint Andrews 26 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

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Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 27

Singer/Songwriter

SAM SHERWIN

In every artist’s life there is a pivotal moment where influence meets inspiration. There is that spark where one realizes their purpose and they are changed forever. For New Jersey-based singersongwriter/guitarist Sam Sherwin that moment came via the golden age of ‘60s television. “I was watching the Who on the Smothers Brothers,” he recalls. “And they were doing ‘My Generation’ and destroyed all their equipment. And I remember dragging my mother over to the TV to see one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen and she was horrified (laughs).” Another of those moments came around the same time when young Sam Sherwin accompanied his father into downtown New York City. “My father had a ladies raincoat factory in the Village and as a youngster he used to take me with him on Saturdays,” explains Sherwin. “I would just wander around the city at 9 or 10 years old and it was fascinating. Before I started seriously playing music I met a couple guys from The Lovin’ Spoonful. They were living in a townhouse right across from Washington Square. I met everyone in the band but John Sebastian. I knew who they were

blues sessions with the Butler Twins and Uncle Jessie White at The Attic Bar in Hamtramck, jammed with Mary Cobra of The Detroit Cobras and also sat in with the Diablos at The Magic Bag in Ferndale and the Bears Den in Berkley.

piece, especially from other musicians watching my hands and trying to figure out what chord I’m playing.”

writing and recorded my first CD called The Coward’s Parade,” he explains. “I had Dena Tauriello

Sherwin, who moved to from Antigone Rising on drums the east coast around age 6 or 7, with me. She played on half the

The southpaw guitaroriginally lived off Eight Mile record and the other half was ist proceeded to make a name Road in Detroit. He has fond played by Glen Fittin, who is for himself in various outfits memories of coming back to percussionist in The Lion King throughout the New York City visit aunts, uncles and cousins area during the ‘80s. Sherwin put on Broadway and also plays with

As a kid Sherwin first for various holidays, birthdays together a club band in Manhat- the Bernie Worrell Orchestra and other family functions. One began his musical journey on and keyboardist Jimmy Destri of saxophone but desired to take up tan called Cold Duck and things of those cousins that he always Blondie. The record got a little started to really take off. They the drums.

Being left-handed, seemed to have a strong kinship bit of airplay but Dena left to he couldn’t find the appropriate were opening shows for Nona with was guitarist Jeff Grand. go on the road and that’s when I Hendryx of LaBelle, Rachel attachments on a kit to accomYears later Grand, who played formed my power trio.”

Sweet, David Bowie protégés with the Howling Diablos, would modate that so he, reluctantly, The A’s and a host of other

He followed up his debut invite Sherwin to sit in with him chose the guitar instead. “I nationals. After taking some play backwards, upside down,” release with Dirty Little Secret, on various jam sessions every time off, he resumed his career, says Sherwin.

“I had some kid which further honed his songtime he’d make it back to the in earnest, during the ‘90s. In teach me how to do it and then writing skills and established Motor City. The singer-song2001, upon a divorce, the singer- his blend of sophisticated urban I taught myself from there.

And writer has sat in with Grand and songwriter pursued more of a I never looked back. I always Americana with blues, soul, alterguitarist Jim McCarty at clubs solo career. “I started seriously found it to be a conversation native rock and pop. He also bein Greektown, played late night from their appearing on Ed Sullivan.”

28 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

one on keyboards and vocals, Janet LaBelle on guitars and vocals, Donna “Lady Bass” McPherson (Funkadelic) on bass, and Dena Tauriello on drums. “I think the female aspect of this band has been a major draw,” states Sherwin. “These girls are not just eye

“I’m extremely candy but really polished musiproud of Iodine Cockcians. There’s this book that just tails,” says Sherwin. came out called Sticks ‘n Skins “This was the first rethat lists percussionists all over cord where I could listen the world and Dena Tauriello is to my voice and not get named in there as one of the 27 that shrill feeling. Probest women drummers out there.” ducer/Engineer Randy gan cultivating working relation Sherwin and company Crafton helped me find ships with what would become have played many of the great my voice.” He not only his dream team behind album NYC venues including The Bitter production and live performance. found his singing voice but further developed his writing voice End, The R Bar, CBGB’s, The People like producer/engineer Mercury Lounge, Sullivan Hall, as well. “I learned that the most Randy Crafton and keyboardist China Club, Lone Star RoadPeter Vitalone became big fans of important thing is the song,” says house, etc. However, in the wake Sherwin’s music and were essen- Sherwin. “It’s not how fast I can of the 911 tragedy and a strugplay a lead or how much I can tial to its success. gling economy, the NYC live jam into a song. Its how a song music scene has taken a heavy

The transplanted Detroi- breathes or, lyrically, how you hit. “The scene is not what it used ter’s latest CD is entitled Iodine can touch somebody and draw Cocktails and it has gotten rave them into a song. With three CDs reviews from many international so far I think online and press sources. Online I’m starting music blog “Lucid Culture” says to figure it “ Iodine Cocktails perfectly syn- out.” thesizes the sound of his previous The two releases, smoothing the jag- ged edges of the new wave power Sam Sherwin Band has pop, but adding some welcome been steadily snarl and bite to the old school building a Americana rock.” And British stellar repuwebsite Leicester Bangs states “Iodine Cocktails provides a host tation as an “A” level act of Brit-rock kicks and sophistiin the NYC/ cated pop thrills.” Some of the people who played on Sherwin’s New Jersey area for the latest have come with considerable pedigree, including bassists better part of two years Wilbur Bascomb ( Jeff Beck, now. The Bernard Purdie, Mick Taylor, James Brown) and Keith Golden current lineup includes ( Dido, Eminem, Paula Cole), Peter Vitalbacking vocalist/guitarist Walter Parks ( Richie Havens) and keyboardist Peter Vitalone ( Les Paul, Dayna Kurtz, Richie Havens, Garland Jeffrys).

to be,” says Sherwin. “It’s trying to come back but a lot of places have folded.”

Despite gigging hardships in their own backyard, Sherwin and his crew continue to make their mark in Manhattan and beyond. And he fondly recalls his experiences playing in the Detroit area. “I find that audiences in Detroit are more about what’s going on onstage that in New York,” states Sherwin. “There are these people playing their hearts out onstage in New York and people are drinking, talking and ignoring what the band is doing. But people are starting to know my name around New York so we’ll start branching out to places like Detroit and the Midwest.”

For more information on Sam Sherwin just go to www. samsherwin.net .

–Eric Harabadian

Lemmy Story and Photos by Marc Nader

“Lemmy” Kilmister

local bands through out London.

At the ripe age of 26 is when “We are Motorhead”……”We things turned a different direcPlay Rock and Roll” tion; Lemmy joined the band Hawkind as a bassist and vocalMotorhead is one of the loudest heavy sounding rock bands ist. With no experience at bass of our time and this is all due to he combined his knowledge the English Heavy Metal front of playing guitar with his feel for Rock and soon developed man they call Lemmy! This his own style of playing bass 66-year-old SOB is one badass Rocker that has ever hit the that quickly defined Lemmy as a heavy hitting machine. The stage!! band soon recognized that his Lemmy, born in England, brash voice would fit perfect started his career after seeas lead vocals on a number of ing the Beatles perform at the their songs. Lemmy ignited this Cavern Club at age 16. Through band with his style and voice his teens he worked small time that earned the band a No.3 jobs while playing his guitar in UK chart single with “Silver Machine”. After a tenure with

Hawkind, Lemmy went on to form a band called the “Bastard” (what a great name), after being told that band name would never get you on top of the music charts Lemmy decided to change the name of the band to the last song he wrote before leaving Hawkind, “Motorhead”. The band quickly attracted the Punk Rock movement and after releasing one of the hardest driving songs called “the Ace of Spades” the rest is Rock history!

ending their Gigantour playing with Megadeth, Volebeat and Luna Coil, the band is now gearing up to hit the Mayhem Tour with Slipknot, Slayer and Anthrax! Can you say sold out, I can!!! It’s going to be rocking show right here at DTE Energy on July 22nd.

Motorhead has taken rock music to new levels and the easiest way to explain a Motor Head concert is it starts as a introductory to rock and sound that will blow your ears apart and ends with the Motor Head has been doing live intensity that leaves you no lonconcerts for over 35 years they ger listening with your ears but are road gods and it looks like hearing through your body. there is no stopping them. Just

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Dick Wagner of his memoirs that was released in 2011 called Not Only Women Bleed.

The title is not only a reference to his classic collaborative hit “Only Women Bleed” with Alice Cooper, but an insight into the often precarious balance of Heaven and Hell he endured navigating the day-to-day rigors of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.

They don’t call Michigan born and bred Dick Wagner the “Maestro of Rock” for nothing. His songs and lead guitar have been featured on more than 200 major label releases; he’s garnered more than 35 Platinum and Gold records and amassed a number of BMI songwriter awards, Emmys and numerous prestigious international awards.

Any serious rock fan, certainly most baby boomers, know the iconic guitar wizardry on albums like Lou Reed’s Rock and Roll Animal , Alice Cooper’s Welcome to My Nightmare, or the screaming midsection guitar breaks on Aerosmith’s cover of “Train Kept A ‘Rollin’.”

All those contributions to the classic rock canon (in collaboration with fellow guitarist Steve Hunter) were

32 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

Today, Wagner lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his wife and continues to write songs, produce new artists for his company Desert Dreams Productions and is embarking on a tour of the Midwest in summer 2012. Detroit Live magazine courtesy of musical renaissance had the pleasure of spending some man Dick Wagner! quality time with Wagner recently

From his early beginnings and, just as in his book or song lyrbacking Jerry Lee Lewis , Roy ics, he was gracious, open and shot Orbison and Little Richard, with his from the hip. first band The Invictas, through his days with The Bossmen, Ursa Major DLM: What’s the biggest differand The Frost, Wagner has made an ence between writing songs and indelible imprint in the pantheon of writing a book? Is this your first national and Motor City music lore. book?

Again, any music devotee worth his or her salt should be able to hum a DW: Yeah, it is. It’s my first atfew bars of The Frost’s commercial- tempt at being an author of some kind. I think it requires the same ly lauded singles “Mystery Man” kind of focus and honesty in writing and, especially, “Rock ‘N’ Roll songs and in writing a book. Mine Music.” is kind of an auto-biography and you have to write from experience,

In the mid 2000s Wagner whatever the story is. And that’s suffered a heart attack and stroke what I try to do and just put it in my which left him unable to play for five years. But, true to form, the vi- own words as if I’m conversing with brant singer-songwriter worked his someone. And that’s how it came way back to fight- out—as a pretty honest reflection of ing shape, mak- my life, with stories that are, hopeing a triumphant fully, interesting enough to keep the return to the stage reader interested to the end. You said you liked it? at a homecoming show at the DLM: Yes, very much. I liked the Magic Bag of Ferndale in 2011. way you structured it in a vignettes format. It almost reads like a diary,

As Wagner in a way. was regaining DW: In a way it was, I guess. his health he also found time I didn’t write it chronologically. I to write a book just started three years ago and first

wrote this short story called “Sam and Jenna” that was never published and still in my library. But it made me wanna write more. I wrote the first chapter first where I write “On my way to my 60th birthday party.”

I wrote that as a place to start, you know. I’m reflecting on my past as I’m driving to the gig. And that was sort of the premise at first. Then I went back and started thinking about when the music started to impact me. I’ve been into music since I was a little kid. My parents said when I was one year old I was singing “Accentuate the Positive,” this little jazz tune. I learned all the lyrics and I was just a baby. But I was pretty precocious. Little by little I got more into it and eventually got a guitar. I started to be active with it and the rest is history. So I started thinking of different scenarios and writing them down. And then I had a collection that I thought could be a book.

So I just went further and further— more memories, more stories. It took me two years to get to a point where it could have been a book then. Then I sat down with my manager/editor Suzy Michaelson—she speaks four languages and is very literate. I got her involved in helping me edit the book to make sure things made sense in terms of chronology. She tried to correct me a couple times with my way of speaking. And I had to tell her to shut up (laughs). I really wanted it in my voice.

DLM: Well I think that’s what makes it really work—the way you describe things so vividly.

DW: Well that’s what I thought too. We had a publisher tell me there was protocol for a book like this and you have to follow things a certain way. But I said the hell with that! I’m gonna say it in my voice! I’m sure a lot of the great writers didn’t have any editors at all.

They just wrote what they wrote.

So we decided to grab ahold of the new technology and put it out as an e-book to start. But I always wanted a hardcover and we’re gonna have one. But you’re fighting the chances of a legitimate distributor coming in and distributing it for you. But I’ll find a way. I’m doing pretty good getting it out there with the social networks and so on. I don’t know how many of my fans are readers.

I know they like music. People are still reluctant of new technology. But the book is only ten dollars.

DLM: People are used to the technology with music but when it comes to e-books and things I don’t think they’re as familiar yet.

DW: Well interviews like this will really help so I appreciate you calling.

DLM: My pleasure! You talk in the book about your first band The Invictas and opening for Jerry Lee Lewis. You said you learned about commanding an audience from him.

Can you talk about that?

DW: Have you ever seen him?

He is so dynamic live! He puts on a show and gets people involved. I didn’t really understand that before. It was my first band and there weren’t many bands to emulate around. Seeing him was like a revelation. I realized you had to do more than just stand and play the guitar. I realized you had to reach out to your audience and be visual and personal

enough to bring the audience into the show. It took a long time but I eventually was working with Alice Cooper and touring with Jeff Beck because I learned how to put myself out there. I never really had any good management or anything like that. I really did it all myself more or less. We all learn from the people that influence us. I also worked with Roy Orbison and he was such a wonderful writer. Slowly I built a style of my own.

DLM: Can you talk about working with guitarist Steve Hunter in the Lou Reed and Alice Cooper bands?

What was it about that relationship between you and Steve that made it DW: We were out there at the top Clemens festival and then three so special? of the list. One notch higher may or four dates in Canada and come have been Duane Allman and Dickie back for more in Michigan, Ohio DW: From the very beginning we Betts. But we could compete with and Indiana. And then we might both respected each other’s guitar them any day. As good as those guys look into Europe in the spring of playing. There was no battle to see were we were just as good. Being next year. We might go to Austrawho was the best or who was gonna a songwriter I’m into harmonies be the leader of the guitar section. and melodies. So most of the time lia too, I don’t know. I just wanna He and I both agreed from the begin- I would create these melodies and play everywhere while I’m still ning to divide the lead and rhythm harmonies for Steve and I to play. young enough, especially after guitars 50/50. We divided it up on being through so much illness for purpose because we weren’t tryDLM: For instance I felt you took five years. I’m very blessed that ing to outshine each other; we were those tunes by Lou Reed on the I’m still living! That’s a game trying to create something. It was live Rock’n’ Roll Animal album to changer right there, if you fuckin’ magic between Steve and I. We’re another place. die, you know! friends but we’re not tight buddies.

DW: Absolutely! We took those But we played like we were, you DLM: And you detailed that Velvet Underground songs and know. turned them into stadium rock. We really well in the book. With DLM: And I think that dual har- took Lou Reed to another place. At all you’ve gone through I don’t mony thing kind of pre-dated Thin first he said he was loving it but later know if I could be that honest.

Lizzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd and all those on said he hated it. Whatever, that’s bands that seemed to pick up on that fine. He can do that if he wants. But DW: I had to do it that way kind of thing. it made him more money and more because what is the point of dofamous so I don’t know what he was ing a book that is dishonest? A lot of people might think I’m maybe bitching about.

a shmuck from reading the book

DLM: Can you tell me about some but, on the other hand, there are of the people you’re working with gonna be people that will respect now?

the honesty of it. And a lot of people are just gonna enjoy the DW: I’m gonna play with Ray Goodman and Dennis Burr and have stories in it. There’s some funny three guitars. And I’ve got Mark stories in there. And it certainly Nyland, who’s a keyboard player shows that the rock ‘n’ roll life from Detroit who also works with isn’t always greatness and fun all the Moody Blues. It’s gonna be a the time. big show. We start rehearsals in DLM: I had a few questions for June, with June 22nd being our first date at Callahan’s. And then you about working with Alice Cooper. You had a lot of late we’re gonna play the Mount

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 33

DW: Yeah, when I got with Alice he was already on top of the world. I finally had a gig that paid me really well.

And he’s still my friend. We do a little writing together.

But that was a good period in the music business.

night writing sessions with him till the wee hours in a bar after being in the studio all day.

What was it about the chemistry between you two that worked so well? You wrote some great stuff with him.

DLM: In the book you talk about the period following the Welcome to My Nightmare tours when Alice started exhibiting some real struggles with alcohol. You and many others were very concerned about his health at that time. You were brutally honest in the book about your substance abuse. I kind of got the impression that that might have been the start of a turning point for you in your quest for sobriety.

Any anecdotes you can share about working with some of these people?

DW: I never met Frank Sinatra but he recorded “You and Me,” which I wrote with Alice Cooper. Steve Perry and I got together and wrote some songs in Los Angeles that we recorded but never got used. Rod Stewart was the same way. We got together and I wrote some songs and played on some tracks for an album where they recorded some 50 songs.

And they only chose 10 or 12. They’re still in a vault somewhere. I thought some of my stuff was gonna end up on the album but that’s the way it goes. You never know. You just try to do the best you can with the situation, you know?

That’s all you can do.

DLM: You talked in the book about opening a digital studio in Saginaw, Michigan in the early ‘90s?

DW: We were open for about 10 years. But after 9/11 the economy in Michigan went way down. It was a little like it is now. And all the business I had booked at my studio all cancelled because they didn’t want to invest any money. So I ended up selling it. Trying to run a successful studio if you’re not in New York, LA or Nashville is tough.

DW: Sure! It took a little while but I finally decided you either live or you die. You’ve gotta make up your mind. So I made a conscious decision to get off drugs. And I just DW: Alice Cooper and I had a natural afstopped cold turkey. I never went to rehab. finity for each other from the first time we And I’ve been drug free for about 25-30 years started writing. We had the same sense of DLM: What projects are you involved with humor. We were laughing all the time. I don’t now. Reality is so much of a better high than currently? all the cocaine you can do. know how we got anything done. We’d usually come up with something great. It was just DW: I’m finishing the mixes on a band from DLM: You’ve been a session guitarist that’s one of those writing relationships that really Italy called The Mugshots, which are sounding recorded on a number of albums—many as an worked. really good. And I am also producing and playuncredited player. Was that for legal reasons? ing guitar on the new SkinnerRat album. I’m DLM: Along these lines, what makes a good pretty busy all the time!

DW: I would just come in and do the prosongwriting team, in your opinion? ducer and band a favor. And they were able to DLM: Can you talk about coming back home claim that whatever act it was did all the work DW: Well you have to be compatible as to Detroit and playing your comeback concert on a record. Me and Steve Hunter both did a people first. I try to adapt to most people I at the Magic Bag last year? meet. I try to get along with everyone. I have lot of that. They didn’t have to say that they no problem being right or being wrong when had a session guitar player client. But eventu- DW: I had a fantastic time doing it. My son ally the word got out. I always looked at it as I came in from Texas to sing with me. I had a it comes to what I put in a song. You have to got a job to do and I do it. have that ability to relate to people. great band. It was the first time I had played in five years so it was a test to see if I could do it.

DLM: So how did that process work? Like, DLM: From your years playing with The And it went really well. It was packed, everywhen you did the Get Your Wings album with Invictas, The Bossmen, Ursa Major and The body loved it and they were all there to see me.

Frost I got the impression you were struggling Aerosmith did So that made me feel really good! I’m playing and working really hard on the road and in the really well and after all the illness I’ve been DW: I’d hear from their management or a studio. But when you hooked up with Alice through I’m fine now. I went through so much producer and I’d do what I was hired to do.

Cooper on the Welcome to My Nightmare shit but I’m back! project and tour you seemed to have found a DLM: You’ve worked with or wrote songs for musical home and were more relaxed at that KISS, Frank Sinatra, Steve Perry, Meat Loaf, For all the latest on Dick Wagner kindly go to point. Would that be accurate to say? www.wagnermusic.com .

Tina Turner, Hall & Oates and many others.

Eric Harabadian

34 Detroit Live Magazine Feb. 2012

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Shinedown was spot on.

All of the songs translated well to the acoustic guitar, but it was Smith’s vocals that really made it a memorable performance.

The most interesting song of the night was their latest single, “Bully” which is a pretty hard rocking song. I didn’t expect it to sound as good on acoustic guitar, but it was pretty amazing.

Bands often choose to sit on stools during this type of set, but Smith and Myers opted to stand and really rock Dave and Chuck “the Freak’s” 3rd Annual Friday Bitches Ball, Featuring Shinedown: March 9, 2012 – The Fillmore, Detroit, MI

out. The crowd seemed to appreciate that and showed their love by singing along and crowd surfing.

Shinedown played a special 6 song acoustic set at the 3rd Annual Friday Bitches Ball, hosted by 89x’s Dave and Chuck “the Freak.” The performance featured lead singer Brent Smith and guitarist Zach Myers.

It’s not every day that you get a chance to see a band play a set like this, and being a free show made it an ever greater treat. For anyone who was at this show, think of it as a preview for when the whole band comes on April 12 for the Avalanche Tour along with Adelitas Way and Art of Dying. For those who missed it, be sure not to make the same mistake.

Not every band is capable of pulling off an acoustic set, especially rock bands, but

S H I N E D O W N

Feb 2012 Detroit Live Magazine 37

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