E U S st IS 1 REE F
magazine
Vol. 1 Jul/Aug/Sep
Gideon Chunky Son Erra Earthworm Honor Flight Never Buried Pillar Kutless Bermuda
Advertorial 1st EUROCK MARATHON (European Rock Marathon) October 2011, Athens - Greece The music competition that will highlight the new trend of the European rock scene With special guests Rock Stars!!!
PARTICIPATE NOW! The 1st European Rock Marathon is a fact and starts from Greece. Be the first to discover the rock stars of tomorrow! A musical parade with the hottest new-comers of the European rock scene. You wonder what is all about? Eurock Marathon encounters new-comer rock bands from all over Europe in a music competition for talented young professionals. All entries will be heard and evaluated by a special committee. The best 8 bands will get the chance to perform live on October 2011 in Greece.
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On the Inside On the Cover: Gideon Honor Flight: 4 Never Buried: 10 Earthworm: 26 Chunky Son: 21 “Christian Goth?”: 13 “Xtreme Dig”: 34 Erra: 16 J.Mann Review: 25
“SpiritFilled Hardcore”: 20
“Wake Up”: 27
“Love Gone Apparel”: 28 Special Thanks to the ERM Team Abby Fincher — graphic design/artist Angie Roberts —executive assistant Ashley Jacques — contributing writer Brittany Nelson — photographer Chris Adkins — contributing writer Connie Brown — founding partner/editing/publishing/ graphic design Curtis Tollison — band and feature interviews Debbie Arbelo — proof reading/editing Emily Barton — publisher assistant George Collens - contributing writer/reviewa/interviewa Heather Richardson — graphic artist intern JP Jackson — website design/hosting/IT support James Senn — band and feature interviews Jonathan Dunaway — contributing writer Jonathan Kindrick — graphic design/artist Laci Gravely — photography/advertising sales Mike Floyd — founding partner/editing/contributing writer/advertising sales Miranda Saxon - advertising sales Penny Richardson — contributing writer Reese Nobles - band and feature interviews Shane Jacques — contributing writer Tammy Bowman — founder/publisher/advertising sales/graphic design Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
It started about a year ago with the desire to be apart of something bigger than myself. I was co-managing a band called BIA and needed a way to support them and to get the message out there to the lost. So, I began researching the idea of a local management company with band management, promotions, and merchandising. Thus HardCore Media 316, LLC was born. In the middle of all this God began tugging at me to put together a magazine.. So we started going to shows talking to people, asking what they thought about a HardCore Christian Music Magazine. The response was amazing. We had focus groups and sent out myspace and emails asking what people want out of a magazine. Even though we are in a high tech computer age people still really want print magazines. If they are going to pay for something they really want something tangible. So, I continued to gather information and decided I may need help with this project. I began to talk about my ideas with others and see if this was something we could put together. God is so awesome to have included me in such a great project. I asked Constance Brown if she liked the idea and asked her to join me, to my pleasant surprise she did. We had been talking with several others and they jumped on board. Then Mike Floyd, seeing the amazing things that God was doing with this magazine, was excited to become part of it. After several months we are still going strong and had our kick-off on August 6th 2010. We hope that you will enjoy our promo copy of ERM. Remember when you pick up you next copy it will have a compilation CD inside of all the bands in the magazine, to let you get to know their music better. Also, something very important happens for every dollar you spend with ERM or HardCore Media 316, LLC a portion of that will go towards helping someone in your community (Food, Bills, Clothes and more). So please help us to support families in need who might not be able to make it without us. Thank you for your love and support, In God We Trust! Tammy Bowman - Founder - ERM
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about themselves, their lives, and everything around them. If one person feels that way when listening to our music, I feel like we’ve done our job beautifully“. Honor Flight gets their Influence to write music though past events, present situations, random thoughts, others’ problems, and constant practice helps them write new music. As you read Honor Flight a whole is determined and always showing progress every time they get the chance to perform on stage; of course that’s always a good sign. Honor Flight are also influence by bands like Alert the Sky, Have heart, Gorilla Biscuits, Municipal Waste, Poison The Well, Saints Never Surrender, Agent, and Title Fight. If you live in the Montgomery/Prattville/Millbrook area you might have caught a few of they’re shows. Honor Flight played at THE MILL in Prattville, Lakewood Center in Montgomery, The Vineyard in Birmingham and Java Jaay’s in Decatur, Al., and that’s only naming a few places.
Find Them On:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Honor-Flight/124195637623223 MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/honorflightal Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/honorflightband (Credit for HONOR FLIGHT photos to Nathan Morris [www.nathanmorrisphoto.com])
I chose to write this article because I feel, just like MANY other people, Honor Flight has the potential to raise to the top of charts, and with the constant progress they have shown that moment will be closer than expected. The members as a whole they are really genuine guys. I have no problem saying that I’m a fan of HONOR FLIGHT and you should listen to them just follow the links at the bottom and listen. Honor Flight has a sound like no other. Honor Flight’s music is on their MySpace and Facebook Pages.
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Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
Honor Flight
Honor Flight Interview by George C.
“We’re just a group of dudes having fun doing what we love, which is playing music and spreading positive influence to the world. Live your lives to the fullest, because unlike gaming this is real so that’s one life, make it count! Stay positive!” Via Honor Flight’s MySpace Honor Flight is a local Montgomery, Alabama Hardcore Christian rock band. Members consist of Aaron Surratt - vocals, Brent Stanley – bass, Charlie Lipham – Guitar, Micah Smith – Drums, and Ryan Pentz - Guitar. Honor Flight has been a band since January 29, 2010, but this wasn’t the first time the members of Honor Flight have been in a band. Before Honor Flight was assembled, the members Aaron Surratt, Charlie Lipham, Micah Smith, and Ryan Pentz were
apart of another group named “I am Symmetry” (http://www. myspace.com/iamsymmetry) with two other members. In “I am Symmetry” the only differences in it was Aaron played guitar, Ryan played bass, the two other members Alex Koenig & Danny Lawless were the vocals, Brent wasn’t in “I am Symmetry”, and Micah and Charlie played the same roles they do presently in Honor Flight. Brent played in a band even before “I am Symmetry”, with Honor Flight Members Ryan Pentz, and Charlie Lipham called “Playing hide and seek with meteors” (myspace.com/diaryofameteor), At the same time Aaron Surratt was in “The Artificials” (http://www.myspace.com/artificials334). Honor flight was created because “we wanted a good foundation of members in the band.
Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
True friends that help one another stay positive, and whom we can trust,” Says the vocalist Aaron. “Also to spread a positive influence to people of all ages” Says Charlie the guitarist. Ryan Pentz comments, “ After ‘I Am Symmetry’ broke up, I feel like we all needed a fresh start. We needed to branch off from the sound of all of our previous bands and create something that really related to all of us. We’re all a fan of Punk and Hardcore so we decided that would be the direction we would start in”, and Micah the drummer says their goals are “...to share the love and positivity this world doesn’t offer on an everyday occasion, there’s more to life then everyday put downs, were here to evoke the youth of our nation one ear at a time.” We Asked Honor Flight what do they wish to accomplish
with the band besides being the best? “We hope to reach people through our music to promote positivity, individuality, and unity and we can all overcome the pressures of everyday life with the help from one another” Micah Smith answered. Aaron Surratt commented, “I just always want us to remember where our hearts are on an individual level and as the band in whole. It’s not about trying to impress people, or to make money. It’s about being friends that share a common outlook on life. One that doesn’t let negativity get you down and run your life. It’s about staying true to yourself, and never letting anyone tell you that you can’t do something. If we can just make one person feel more positive in life with our songs then I’m happy”. And Ryan says, ”I hope to accomplish a lot. The main thing I want to do is make our listeners feel good;
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Come with me on a Trip Over the Years of Christian Rock By Shane J.
For many years people praised god in prayer and song. For some it was only in church with old time hymns but for others for decades now it has been in hard rock and metal music. That’s right Christian hard rock and metal music. With their screaming guitar riffs and pounding drums mixed with lyrics that could hit home in everyone’s life.
freaks was a guy with the fabulous name of Lonnie Frisbee. As told in David Di Sabatino’s excellent 2006 documentary Frisbee: The Life and Death of a Hippie Preacher, Lonnie was a tripped-out young man who grew up in Orange County, Calif., saw God on LSD, and became a Christian in the Height.
Keeping his duds and long hair not to mention Christian rock or hardcore his charismatic air of instarted many years ago nocence and spiritual conaround the late 50s and viction Frisbee hooked up early 60s. Evangelist min- with straight-laced pastor istries and young believ- Chuck Smith. Together ers have opted to enjoy they began an enormously pop culture’s manic en- popular youth ministry at ergy and style while splic- Smith’s Calvary Chapel, ing in inspiring messages a revival that almost sinand strict rules of moral gle-handedly transformed conduct. the hippie Jesus vibe into a mass phenomenon. JeOne of the earliest and sus became a longhaired most influential Jesus revolutionary of love, a 6
real Superstar, and his followers used underground newspapers and beachside baptisms to turn others on to the convulsive power of the Holy Spirit.
and bands like Larry Norman, Love Song, Randy Stonehill, and Daniel Amos were all from California living and creating on the edge of the Jesus Movement. The new muThey also used rock ‘n’ sic was soon transported roll. Indeed, while you across the nation. can debate just how much today’s suburban mega Almost immediately, vichurches owe to the Je- sionary Christians began sus movement, there is no to hold outdoor music fesquestion that CCM con- tivals that also brought in temporary Christian mu- preachers and speakers to sic owes its billions to the teach the hungry visitors. freaks. Festivals sprang up in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, A man named Larry Nor- England, Holland, and man was playing rock other locations attracting with Christian lyrics back thousands of campers of in the early 60s and was all ages. considered to be the father of Christian rock. In the The Charismatic Move70s the Jesus movement ment was in full swing. In hit and millions of people the 1980s Jesus music and grabbed hold with their Jesus rock became known clothing love and music. as Contemporary During the 1970s, artists Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
Christian music or CCM. CCM took form in many genres of musical styles from gospel, praise & worship, pop, folk, country, rock and others in the 80s many famous artist proclaimed a born again life such as Bob Dylan, john Lennon, Johnny Cash and many more the spirit was moving in a new wave in the industry and subculture. Every year more artist labels and genres emerged and with them came more fans festivals media outlets and concerts. The 90s exploded with even more Christian
bands and lyrics. Several artists and bands had significant “Biblical Music” crossover success, including MxPx, Jars Of Clay, and Payable On Death, not to mention U2, Collective Soul, Creed, Alice Cooper, Charlie Daniels, Johnny Cash, and others. Welcome to THE NEW MILLENNIUM. 2000 boomed in with the online universe with many sites like YouTube, MySpace, Facebook and many other sites that people flocked to in search of friends, music and to be a part of something new. Thanks to all the sites, Christian
music among other styles came into our homes at the speed of light. We can now watch a show or listen to our fav bands while keeping up with our friends and family. That’s right GOD is even on the net with us.
big concerts such as En Fuego (on fire) in Alabama where many bands come to play for very large crowds. There you have it.. Just some of the history of Christian rock music from the 50s till now.
Now more than ever Christian music is out there. We can find it from their videos to homemade videos that non-band members put together with shows from TV or anime with background music from Christian bands of all types.
Now the question is what will the future hold for us? With all new sounds in the mix people have no limits other than their own imagination and when you put God in charge you never know what may come next.
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(re)Thinking the end of the Christianity Over the past 20 years there has been a significant shift in popular American culture. We have moved from the safe haven of Christendom to the spiritually competitive post-Christian era. While nobody doubts what is happening the real issue is whether this is a positive or negative trend. Let us examine. The demise of Christendom marks the end of the cultural mandate that all peoples should be institutionally Christianized. The purpose of culturally Christianizing people was to ensure a common language and moral base of the people. This is not exclusively a bad thing unless the prominence of the gospel is extinguished in the process. When this occurs Christianity becomes a cultural institution maintaining power through political ideology, propaganda, and social stratification. Eventually Christianity cannot support the cultural needs of Christendom. In the wake of Christendom’s demise there is a feeling of separation between Christendom’s adherents and the new culture. These feelings of separation often manifest in dialogues from Christendom’s temples that ask culture to go back to its roots or rediscover it’s heritage or keep with tradition. We even see mantras to repent, pray, and bring back connoting the need to restore that which was in order to regain favor [this is most evident in the use of II Chron. 7:14 as a battle cry for reclaiming the old ways]. Conversely the dialogue of culture aimed at Christendom asks for relativity, authenticity, tolerance, and acceptance. Unfortunately this dialogue does not have a happy ending as the two sides no longer speak the same language. Eventually the rising power of culture overtakes the declining Christendom in the hearts and minds of the people. Those of us who live in the American landscape are not immune to the effects of a gospel-less Christianity. In our case Christendom [i.e. the church] is losing it’s grip on culture and increasingly becoming less relevant to the people. As this continues Christendom will lose it’s share of the people market and will not be able to perpetuate itself. While this is a shock to many the church an institution holds no politic controls over a population that does not hold the same values. If the current trends continue Christendom will eventually pass away from out landscape. So is the end of Christendom [cultural Christianity] a bad thing? The answer truly depends on your perspective. Consider this! Over the past few years there has been an awakening to need of gospel prominence among Christians. The fruit of this movement are revitalization of Christian dialogue with culture. Clearly there is a correlation between the rise of the gospel and the decline of Christendom, but maybe at least in part that is what is meant in John the Baptist’s statement “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30 NRSV).
Chris Adkins, CFLE* is local family life instructor. Additionally he facilitates workshops, makes presentations, and writes articles concerning family life and/or Christian thinking. He recently co-authored a book on early Christian teaching and practices.
*Certified Family Life Educator with the National Council on Family Relations Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
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ERM: So, how did all of you meet? Never Buried: Well, Rudy, Gaby and I all went to the same church for a couple yeas before starting the band. Vik and I both went tot the same high school and I knew he played guitar for another band, so one day we got booked to play at our high school auditorium and he was there, so I asked him to play with us. It was a real last-minute thing. He knew none of the songs but just pretty much ‘free-styled’ it, and lo and behold ne became our lead guitarist. John actually lives down my street like that all through junior high and my freshmen year of high school. Then one day my sophomore year, Jon’s freshmen year, I heard somebody playing the high school band’s drum set. I liked what I heard, and when I walked into the room, there was Jon jamming away. At that time we were very in need of a drummer; this was around 2007, so I put differences aside and asked him to join. We’re all really good friends now, we are like family. Though we usually joke around, laugh and argue sometimes; we get down to business every evening practice at church. - Chris CHRIS ERM: What influenced you to start a band? vocals/acoustic guitar Never Buried: Well pretty much we all have an insane love and passion for music, the same goes for our faith in Christ. We wanted the opportunity to put our both passions together and produce a ministry that fits our style and makes use of our talents. I’m a youth pastor, so being in a band makes the Word of God alive. Vik and I pretty much have this crazy OCD for music. We have to have every album of every band we like, including unreleased stuff, bonus tracks, other side projects of certain members, and well that passion for music came into plat when the idea of a band came about. Now we get to speak to tons of youth and adults who share the same feelings and thoughts we do about gospel. So we minister to those that can relate and to those that need God. - Chris
RUDY bass guitar
ERM: What made you decide the type of music that you play? Never Buried: Well Vik, Jon, and I have always loved rock and metal. When we were young we pretty much listened to the same stuff, and we’ve always wanted to be in a rock or hardcore band. Rudy has this love for soft rock, punk, blues, and country believe it or not, and Gaby is just a straight up country listening girl. And well on top of the hard rock and metal stuff I just love grunge. So all these styles just mix into our sound and genre and our songs, which also makes it challenging to fit in all our perspectives of music into one song. When it comes to lyrics, reading the bible is always the best source for perfect words. Other than we work to express ourselves and situations. Songs are stories. - Chris
ERM: Who are some of the bands you would like to play with? Never Buried: Bands and groups that have real personal messages and are close and personal with their fans, bands that don’t hide who they are or who they worship and they don’t sugar coat the gospel or Christianity. Those are the bands we’d love to play with. ERM: Can you tell me your testimony? Never Buried: Rudy - I was brought up in a Christian home being taught the ways of the Lord. At the time however up until my teenage year it was church by force and not by choice. When I was 16 years old I experimented with drugs and alcohol. When experimenting turned to routine it was evident I was on the road to failure and regret. There were even times when I would be at Sunday church services hung-over. It wasn’t until the age of 17 when the Lord spoke and revealed to me that my purpose in life was for Him, in Him. As the years have passed the hunger intensifies for Him through the grace and love He bestows. I can sum up life in its entirety by this: “To live is to pursue Christ.” Chris - I grew up in a Christian home with a pastor as a father. The pressure was really on me to be the best “Christian” in the RELIGIOUS sense. But I soon found myself not liking the religion things. I hated that I couldn’t be my own person, so I soon found myself falling far from the Glory of God. I began to take the wide road as some would say, and my attitude towards Christianity and God became very faint. I began to hate everything that had to do with religion, which wasn’t wrong but I was slowly, even though I didn’t wanna admit it, becoming an atheist. I found little faith in God but yet He still had every ounce of faith in me. It wasn’t till a massive encounter with God hit me. It was around 1 or 2 in the morning one night and in my desperation I began to seek and pray for God. Then as real as I feel the wind on my face, God spoke to me and touched me. My tears couldn’t be contained; felt so much peace and freedom. God had finally showed Himself to me and revealed His plan for my life. Vik - I chose Atheism at an early age, I remained in that stubborn mind-set for a long time. Even attending church and engaging with Christians wasn’t enough to change me. It was by grace and wisdom that my eyes were opened circa two years ago by Christ our Lord. The transition was not difficult what-so-ever, my heart had become cold from the obscurity of this GABY world and God gave me shelter and rest. In a closer view, I realized that joining this band, “Never Buried” has been the will of vocals/keys God. When Chris asked me to join, I just jumped into their lives. It all brought me closer and delivered me directly to God; I
can’t imagine a different outcome. Time flies, I grow to love God everyday. Even when I’m too weak to proclaim the Name of Christ to others or fall short of His Glory, I find myself loving God more and more, definitely still growing. I have surrounded myself in the things of God, leaving space for sin in my life. I seek God on a daily basis and remain loyal to my Creator. Gaby - I grew up in a Christian home since I was born. As I grew older I began to face difficulties and when I entered high school I was influenced by my friends to stay away from God. Towards the end of my freshman year I felt God like never before. Chris was preaching one day on a Wednesday youth night and I had a change in my heart like never before, a breakthrough. I knew God was real and I knew He existed, but I never thought ministry wasn’t my calling. I always wanted to be a veterinarian and that was when my brother (Rudy) and Chris started a band and about a week later I joined. Now I live for Christ and He lives through me. For every day that passes is a blessing and opportunity to share the fire that burns inside of me with others, and that is Jesus Christ our Savior. And now in my life I have no other purpose or calling but to live, serve, praise, worship, obey and dedicate everything I have to the Lord Himself. Jon - I grew up having both my parents as pastors. I was always around music 24/7. My dad plays guitar for the church band and my mom and sister sing in it also. I’ve had my ups and downs but for the most part I’ve stayed with God. There have been times where I’ve felt in need of Him but He’s always there to pick me up and I’ll continue using everything I have for Him. ERM: So what do you do on your free time? Never Buried: Rudy - On my free time I enjoy working out, attending school, listening to music, playing video games, going to church, and reading my bible. Chris - Well I’m really OCD with music so every band I like I usually get the while discography and live dvd’s and any side projects the singer any other member may have. I love just hanging around and playing my guitar, usually trying to write new songs. I love to write. I have a notebook full of lyrics and just random pieces of poetry and other thought that I’ve written JOHN drums over the years, most of it makes it onto a new song. I enjoy hanging out with the rest of the band at home, and having our /BGVs jam sessions. Oh and Bar-B-Q’s for sure! Vik - Listen to music, bible study, making music and being a part of it. Than when I’m not concentrating on school I like to watch some anime or movies, spend time cooking for my family and friends and enjoying life in general. I enjoy swimming, fishing, spending days outdoors and hanging out with friends. I feel that when we live life and seek God, there are blessings waiting on us. Gaby - On my free time when I’m not in school or work I enjoy playing my guitar, going to church, reading the Bible, hanging out with my best friend and going shopping with my mother, sister, and niece. Jon - On my free time I like to go to church as much as I can, play sports like football and basketball, listen to music, watch some movies, spend time with my family, and practice on my drumming. I always try to get better on my drumming because I wanna be the best that I can. ERM: Who are your favorite bands right now and why? Never Buried: Rudy - War of Ages, Demon Hunter, Flyleaf, Jeremy Camp, As I Lay Dying, For Today, Third Day, Red, Creed, Stained, Needtobreathe, Tenth Avenue North, Toby Mac, and Pillar. Chris - Some of my favorite bands are the ones that are very structural with their music and very in depth with their lyrics. My love for Christian metal, Christian alternative, and Christian hardcore is very much alive in bands like For Today, Impending Doom, August Burns Red, As I Lay Dying, War of Ages, and so on... but I also find many musical influences and writing style in bands such as Alice in Chains, Stained, Linkin Park, Crossfade, Pearl Jam, and Shinedown. Vik - Right now I listen and engage in a variety of Christian hardcore, I definitely like the confidence and aggression that they bring in their messages. Bands such as: For Today, Confide, Norma Jean, August Burns Red, Texas in July, Becoming The Archetype, To Speak Of Wolves, P.O.D., War Of Ages, As I Lay Dying, As Cities Burn, Flyleaf, In The Midst Of Lions, Oh, Sleeper, Destroy the Runner, etc, one huge playlist! I’m very open to music, ranging from hardcore, classical/baroque, Japanese pop, jazz, guitar solo stuff, alternative rock, blues, electro, indie and experimental. I guess it just depends in the mood I’m in. Personal favorites are: Hurt, perspective to be as open-minded as possible and I enjoy music overall. You’ll be surprised what inspires the music we incorporate on “Never Buried.” Gaby - I love the extreme aggression and the message of the bands War of Ages, Demon Hunter, Flyleaf, For Today, As I Lay Dying, Kutless and Fireflight. You can really see the passion that burns within then as they sing to the Lord. I also love Jeremy Camp, Rush of Fools, and Needtobreathe because their message and beautiful voice put many in the mood of worship. And last I love Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Kenny Chesney because even though they are country singers their lyrics are also real and some of their music is really mellow. Jon - As of right now I’m listening to a lot of Christian metal, bands such as: Impending Doom, Maylene and the Sons of Disaster, Destroy the Runner, For Today, Becoming The Archetype, Flyleaf, In The Midst of Lions, War of Ages, As I Lay VIK Dying, August Burns Red, Oh Sleeper, etc, those are my favorites. I also listen to Linkin Park, Buddy Rich, Stained, Chevelle, electric guitar and Tony Royster Jr. ERM: What is your main goal with this band? Never Buried: Main goal: Serve God, Christ. Through our humility to serve, we have found that all blessings are brought forth when we seek God and His kingdom first. Our passion is to share the love that Christ shared to us and bring forth the gospel in its entirety and truth. We are also inspired by people and friends that give us encouragement support. “We have seemly stumbled into all this; we press forward learning and growing.” (Vik) As of July 2010 we started on our 2nd recorded album, we have done so much work for this new set of material. This album will most definitely speak to many people with different preferences of genres and sounds, a momentous approach. Up till now everything has been so easy and pleasant, with hard work, no doubt; but God gives rest and strength to His servants. - Vik ERM: What advice would you give to kids that are trying to start a band or are already in a band? Never Buried: PRACTICE! Work hard for every single thing you want to achieve. Everyone has dreams, but that one’s who achieve those dreams are the one’s work hard at what they love and what they do. And also love every minute of what you do. It’s easy to just play shows and gigs here and there but if your heart isn’t right, if you’re not in it for a higher purpose, you’ll fail. And very importantly keep your faith; never lose sight of the goal. - Chris
w e i v e R
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by George C.
I Am Empire - Kings (Tooth and Nail Records) 4.5 out 5 Rating
While checking out “Creation Fest 2011” I ran across a rock band entitled “I am Empire” in the lineup. I looked them up and I previewed a few of the songs from the album “kings” on iTunes and bought it. It was worth it, Kings by I Am Empire offers an impressive Tooth and Nail Records debut that was released on January 21, 2011. I’m happy with the purchase. “The album title refers to a theme of taking up the crown left by someone who has abandoned you, and being a better person than the one who disappeared.” (ITunes Review) After doing a little research I read how other consumers who bought the album felt about it. A few mentioned how they enjoy how deep most of the records are, for example, “Take me Away’ and the last song of the album “It’s Not Fair”. Also saying how songs like “Brain Damage” and “Heart Attack” are very energetic. Not all responses were positive about the album, some said that they felt some of the songs they’ve heard before from other bands, not saying they copied someone else work but their style blends with other bands like Kings of Leon, Destroy the Runner, and/or The Fold. Besides that Vocalist Austin Lyons honestly shows he has loads potential in this record. He proves how talented he is by demonstrating that he doesn’t require auto-tune like many vocalists, making “Saints & Sinners” and “Heart Attack” Instant favorites because of his vocals. Andrew and Dan on the guitar is a masterpiece on it’s own. Their skills blend together exceptionally, it will seem as if they have been playing together all their lives. When it comes to bass playing Josh is on a level on his own, his work ethic shows every time he plays. Eric shows that he no naive on the drums. He proves that he desires a seat next to some of the best in the industry in the near future like Chris Coleman, Kenny Aronoff, or even Travis Barker. I am Empire in general seem like a group of guys passionate about their work and this album “Kings” deserves at least a listen.
Emery - We do what we want (Tooth & Nail Records - Solid State Records) 5 out of 5 “We do what we want” by Emery was Released on March 29, 2011 through Tooth & nail Records and Solid State Records. Emery doesn’t stick to the one particular musical style on their fifth studio record “We do what we want”. The Album is both aggressive but gives you some softer melodies in the middle and in pieces of each song so that it wouldn’t be so predictable or one dimensional through out the album. In other words Emery gives you something different with each song, while at the same time still keeping focus on their religious beliefs. From the very beginning of the album it takes you away. The Band mentions that with their message they never wanted to seem like they were stuffing religion down your throat, and listening to the album I never once felt over powered by it, so I believe they succeed in that goal. “We Do What We Want” might be the band’s heaviest record thanks to Solid State Records reflecting their heavier side. The band has always been known for mixing aggressive rock with melodic hooks. The band still includes some melodic features in this record but they stick to hardcore much more. Consumers felt that the album was brilliant. Some said that they loved the hardcore rock they incorporated in the album but happy they keep it the “Emery Way” with the melodic style mixed in. A few also say that even though they still love Emery, It’s just not the same without Devin (the vocalist). Devin will be missed. Indeed the music might but a little different but all in all the songs in this album is good. “We do what we want” is a great follow up after the “. In Shallow Seas We Sail” album Some say “In shallow Seas We Sail” is better, Some Say this Album is better “we do what we want”. If you like Emery even a little bit you should give “we do what we want” a listen you wont regret it. It’s Different, creative, and something you’ll have on repeat for long time.
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Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
Christians and Goths Can they be the same person? by Shane J. Could something that has been looked on as dark and gloomy have a bright light within? Over the years many people have looked on Goth people as evil and dark and uncaring. Well time always opens new doors and minds and I am here to say that in all darkness Gods’ light will break in and shine bright. There are a lot of Goth guys and girls that love the look and music of the normal Goth but they also love the greatness that is the Lord Jesus. I have found that there are a lot of Goth/Christian bands and groups out there in this world. They like all Goths just want to be themselves and worship God at the same time.
Well guess what THEY ARE COMEING OUT OF THE DARK. That’s right no longer will they have to hide. This is my call to you, from one Christian Goth to all the others. Let’s make ourselves known to the world. Let’s stand and say YES we love the lord God and we are not going to hide it. So wear your black put on the chains, buckle up those boots, vinyl and leather up from head to toe, if you wish. But mostly let’s put on the armor of God. Let’s show the true evil of this world that they can’t win even with the Goth culture. Let me know about your travels as a Goth Christian. Maybe you will see yourself in the next issue. God bless you all my friends.
Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
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Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
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Interview by Curtis Tollison ERM: I had the privilege of seeing you guys play in Birmingham a few months back, and I must say, you guys were the best there! ERRA: Thank you so much. We really try out hardest to be a step ahead when it comes to our live performance. We want people to feel captured by out presence so that they won’t forget who we are. ERM: You’ve shared the stage with bands, such as Between the Buried and Me and Carnifex. What was that like? ERRA: It was so crazy. That was actually our first show as a band. We have all been big fans of BTBAM so when we found an opportunity to play with them we did whatever it took to make sure we could. Our bass player, Adam, even had to skip out on his families vacation to play. It was a sacrifice that we all felt was so worth it, and it definitely was. Playing along side those bands made us realize how much we wanted to progress as a band and pursue a full time schedule. ERM: Your lyrics are very deep, and some of the most intelligent lyrics that I’ve heard in metal music. What inspires you to be so in depth with your lyrics? ERRA: Being the vocalist of the band I write all of the lyrics, with the exception of Towers that Adam wrote. My personal beliefs have the biggest impact on the lyrics. Without being obvious and cliche I want to share my view of this world. The only reason I have ever been able to be in a band is because I was given a gift. It would be selfish of me not to try and share with the world how I became so blessed. Each song is like a puzzle, not too hard to figure out, but takes a while to fully understand. And because our lyrics aren’t too obvious they reach out to a larger audience which was my goal. ERM: So, you guys are starting recording on July 5th and will be putting out an EP entitled “Andromeda.” What can people expect from this EP? ERRA: We are all stoked for recording in July. We will be tracking a 5 song EP and the title track will be Andromeda. This EP is going to be a little bit of a change up from the last. We still have incorporated plenty of that pretty sounding melodic goodness, haha, but this time we bring to the table a heavier darker sound which is more relevant in The Scenic Route and Andromeda. We expect to catch some people off guard with this combination of melodic and heavy songs. ERM: So, Erra originally started off as a side project from your former bands. How did that play out? ERRA: Erra originated from me (Garrison) and Jesse. I came up to him one day and asked if he wanted to start something melodic. Both of us had played in heavier bands and were growing bored of it at the time. He
went home and wrote a song and just like that we started looking for members. After adding Alex (drums) and Adam (bass) we went on a guitarist search. Mike Millikin of Even Idols Die (my old band) was our first second guitarist. He helped write Separate and Coalesce and Towers from the first EP. Unfortunately he wasn’t with us long due to personal reasons. After about a month r two of searching I came across Alan’s music myspace of The Artificials. It was the perfect sound so I message him and here we all are. ERM: Alan, you’re new to the band. What was it like to jump into a band that already had songs established? ERRA: It was actually not that new to me since I was in Broadcast the Nightmare last year touring with the big name bands such as Born of Osiris, After the Burial, A Plea for Purging, Within the Ruins, Mychildren Mybride, and many more. When I joined Erra it was the same ordeal. “Learn these songs and you’re in the band” basically. It was a blessing to tour with those bands but I see it more as a blessing that Broadcast broke up because it lead me to play guitar for Erra. Erra is the style of music I’ve always wanted in a band and couldn’t be happier with the way things turned out. ERM : When you compose a song where do you get your ideas from and how does a song evolve? ERRA : Both Jesse and Alan write ridiculous amounts of music on their own. They have written close to ten or so songs a piece withing a matter of months. Each of them has their own influence ranging from Jesse’s influences such as Born of Osiris, The Faceless, Secret and Whisper and Saosin, to Alan’s influences such as Misery Signals, Hopesfall, and Glassjaw. Once a song is written we put it on tabbit and send it to the email for everyone to decide whether or not we use it. Then once we decide, the final step is going back through the song as a band and changing some things around, tweaking it so it’s perfect. ERM : What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? ERRA : As a band we all like to go swim and just hangout. Normally if we are all together we are talking about the ways to improve and grow as a band. Individually is a different story though. Jesse and Alan play guitar in their spare time, Adam and I work out, Alex works a lot and goes clubbing...like dance club clubbing, haha. ERM : What comes next for you as a band, give us a glimpse into the future of Erra. ERRA : In the near future we plan to go on tour and get as much exposure as we can. We want everyone to hear our music. We will be releasing the Andromeda EP and hope that everyone enjoys it. All of us have hopes of going somewhere with this band and I believe that if we work hard enough we will. From left to right: Alex Ballew drums, Alan Rigdon guitar, Garrison Lee vocals, Adam Hicks bass, and Jesse Cash guitar.
Things I Haven’t Learned
In The Industry…
It’s been an interesting ride. Bumpy at times, exhilarating at others. At the end of my first 10 years within this industry we call music, I welcome the opportunity of a new endeavor – Extreme Rock Magazine. Sure, it’s a little scary but I know God is here – knowing that He will guide for the next 10 years and the next following. The first ten years brought me great experiences with some of the top artists in the country – experiences I’ll hopefully share within the pages of this publication in the coming issues. I learned a lot – but I still haven’t learned everything. Here is a list of the few things I haven’t learned yet… [1] I haven’t learned yet how to condense my thoughts into one page – maybe I’ll learn by the end of this article. [2] I haven’t learned how to trust God with EVERYTHING in my life – but I guess we all have that battle and will probably be fighting it in some way or another until we see Him face to face. [3] I haven’t learned how to play an instrument. It’s an interesting fact really – especially since I critique those who do. [4] I haven’t quite learned yet why God would choose me to do this – write and promote artists while I inspire their listeners with my words. [5] And finally, I haven’t learned yet how to do everything – and I mean everything – God has called me to do. (Hopefully it’ll be done when I get to my heavenly home.) Those are the things I haven’t learned, but what I have is more important. There’s more than five but here are the most important. [1] I’ve learned to trust, even though, I’ll admit, I don’t do it as much as I’d like [2] I’ve learned to accept that which I cannot change, and to “roll with it” when it comes to change. [3] I’ve learned to watch for opportunities and to pray for guidance as to which are God-given. [4] I’ve learned to love whether I like someone or not. [5] I’ve learned to believe God for the faith to trust in Him – no matter what the outcome. In the coming issues you’ll learn more about me and through correspondence I’d like to learn more about you. Who knows? Maybe we’ll learn how to believe bigger, have more faith, and walk this road with God more closely. This magazine is about more than music – it’s about following the Rock and the Extreme ways we can do it. It’s about (Finishing one article in a page – yep, still working on that one.) Until Next Time…
The J Man
spirit-filled hardcore
Where is the hardcore scene taking us? probably not a question you’ve asked, or cared to ask for that matter. for some it’s nothing more than an occasional Weekend shoW, or a trip With some friends to see a favorite band. for others, it’s a lifestyle. to shoW promoters, booking agents, full-time tour members, venue oWners, or even venue staff, the hardcore scene is something that they, or “We” experience nearly every day. regardless of What part you play, We all have one thing in common. We all love some sort of heavy, underground music. that is What brings us all together, and What keeps us here. but Where is this “scene” taking us as people, as individuals? spiritually? morally? it is becoming more than just music. “this is our generation, and We Will knoW no fear, We are building an army, lord hear our prayers.” –the great commission “i Will bleed for the one Who gave everything for me.” –sleeping giant. both examples of a generation changing the outlook on hardcore. “spirit-filled hardcore”. something quickly progressing, as the hardcore scene progresses itself. Who Would knoW that you could groW spiritually through heavy, underground music? bands are taking their lyrics and message to a Whole neW level, speaking out Words of hope, encouragement, and love through their music. While some bands speak their message on stage, others take a different approach. an approach of meeting neW people, building relationships, and shoWing the love of jesus christ. as partakers of the spirit-filled hardcore movement We must still understand that not all “christians” act like “christians”. every day, all over the World, many christians make a bad name for themselves, and a bad name for christianity, pushing unbelievers aWay. it is our job as true christians to repair the Wounds that the judgmental church makes. church in itself is completely biblical, and it is very healthy to Worship among other believers. i encourage all of you to find a church that is real. a church that goes by What the bible says, not What the pastor says, or anyone in the church for that matter. the beauty of the hardcore scene is that people from all over can get together over one interest, and meet people from all different interests, areas, and religions. i pray that the hardcore scene becomes something Where god-fearing youth, god-free youth, buddhists, hindu’s, or anyone for that matter can come together and have fun at hardcore shoWs, shoWing love to one another regardless of belief. god is amazing, and i Want absolutely everyone to experience the happiness that i have had through jesus christ. i Would like to leave anyone Who is reading this at this. We all play a part in the hardcore scene, just like We all Who are christians play a part in christianity. do your part. love all and shoW that love. let the hardcore scene be more than just a trend to you, let it be something that Will encourage you morally and spiritually. listen to bands that Will influence you in christ. if you aren’t a christian, seek truth. don’t take What others say as What you decide you believe. jesus is truth. but don’t take that from me. find out for yourself. -daniel mccartney insanitybooking@gmail.com myspace.com/gideonmetal
Born and raised in Montgomery
it was over shadowed by a life of and showing the youth that Alabama, Brad “Chunky Son” drugs, liquor, and violence. At there is an alternate route to the Stephens fell in love with music 20, he was arrested and court path he chose in his earlier days. at a young age. He started writing ordered to a drug rehab program. In 2005 he was released and songs at 12 yrs old. Unfortunately around the age of thirteen, It was there, that he realized he pretty much moved in to the Chunky was caught up in the needed to make some drastic studio experimenting with his “wrong crowd” and fell into a changes in his life. But before style and sound. After a few lifestyle of drugs and alcohol. he could cut all his ties, he was misses, Chunky final found a Around sixteen, he began selling arrested again. This time by the sound that reflected who he is. drugs which graduated him D.E.A. for possession of a firearm With a mixture of crunk dirty from marijuana to harder drugs and drugs and was sentenced to a south style beats, crunchy live like LSD, ecstasy, and cocaine. year and a half in Federal Prison. guitar tearing apart every track, Before he was shipped off, Chunk and extremely real lyrics. This In these hectic times, music was decided he would make this a isn’t what you think of when Chunk’s only escape. He began turning point in his life for the you think of Christian rap making mix tapes around 15 better. He then devoted his life to music. It’s just real music, with doing shows at parties and local serving Jesus Christ, spreading real subjects, for real people. clubs. Music was his passion, but the gospel through his music,
“Booking, Managing & Promoting today’s Christian Artists”
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Philippians 4:13
(NLT) “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
Recently I’ve been reading “Three Cups of Tea” by Greg Mortenson & David Oliver Relin. In 1993 Greg Mortenson set out on a journey determined to climb Pakistan’s K2, the world’s second highest mountain. When he began his journey, Greg had a very clear plan of what he wanted to accomplish and how to make it happened. Greg is a very determined man who is not accustomed to failure. However, he did not make it to the summit of K2. As he was making his decent feeling dejected, exhausted and disorientated he wandered away from the group and missed the path that would have brought him safely down the mountain. Lost, with no food, supplies or shelter, Greg continued on and eventually found himself in a remote Pakistani village. Though the villagers had barely enough to survive themselves, they took Greg in and nursed him back to health. While recovering his health and beginning to come to grips with both his failure and the fact that he was lost,
Greg begin to notice the struggles of the villagers just to live day by day. Seeing the village children, sitting outside with no books and no teacher, using sticks to scratch their lessons in the dirt, Greg made a promise to build them a school. That promise, made in a place that he never “planned” to be during a time he considered himself a “failure” would not only change the course of Greg’s life. It would change thousands of lives and impact the future of Pakistan and Afghanistan’s poorest villages.
why didn’t You make this thing happen for me?” I struggle with moving past the failure and the hurt.
Reading Greg’s story I began to think about how many times in my own life I had set out on a specific path determined to accomplish some goal. And even though I knew that I had done all that I could to prepare and place myself in a position of achieving that goal, somehow I had fallen short. I can relate to the feelings of dejection and depression and “lostness” that Greg felt. During these times in my life I often find myself crying out and asking God, “Why? If it’s true that I can “do all things through You”
So maybe just maybe if, at that point of perceived failure, instead of casting myself down into a pit of depression and selfish despair I choose instead to “lift my eyes up unto the mountains” I may see that I am actually exactly where God planned for me to be all along. And I may find a work He had planned for me to do that would not only change my life, but also the lives of countless others.
But a new thought has occurred to me. I know that the Bible is truth. So, therefore, it must be true that I really can “do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” IF, and this is a big “IF”, the things I am trying to do are what GOD wants me to do, and not just what I want to accomplish for my own selfish reasons.
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t e G
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Get
up!
Most of us have probably seen all the sequels to the movie Rocky. For me, this has always been one of my favorite movies to watch. Ever since I have been a kid, I have been so inspired by watching these movies. There was a particular phrase in the Rocky films I have wanted to write a devotion on for about six years. The phrase keeps ringing in my head. Do you remember Mick, Rockys’ trainer and manager? Well Mick told Rocky one of the most inspirational phrases during his fight with Clubber Lang (Mr. T) for the heavy weight championship of the world. After CL knocked Rocky down to the canvas, Rocky being disoriented and trying to get to his feet, has a memory of Mick saying to him over the chanting of the crowd, “Get up because Mick loves you”. I love this! Every time I think about the phrase Mick said to Rocky in this film, I think about what God told Joshua. In Joshua chapter 7, we see the children of Israel going into a battle with Ai. Ai was such a small city; Joshua only sent about three thousand people to do battle. To Joshua’s surprise, Ai struck down about thirty-six men and chased the rest of the men out of town. The scripture says in Joshua 7:5, “...Therefore the hearts of the people melted and became like water.” I can imagine this is what Rocky might have felt when he was knocked to the canvas during his fight with CL. Many times, we feel the same way as our circumstances get the best of us. Joshua immediately tore his clothes in grief and fell to the ground on his face before the ark of the Lord. We see in the following verses Joshua asking the Lord many questions concerning the welfare of the people. God did not answer one of Joshua’s questions; God simply said in verse 10, “Get up!” Whenever I read this, I sense in my spirit the Lord saying to Joshua - “I love you, but there is business to take care of and you do not have time to lay their defeated.” During Joshua’s time of defeat, sin had entered the camp through the disobedience of a man named Achan. Before there could be victory again with Israel, Joshua would have to find the sin and sanctify the people. I believe this is what God was telling Joshua. You find what has caused you to be knocked down, defeated and chased away in battle and deal with it. It was the same with Rocky; He had to find the will to get up when his opponent looked like he had the upper hand. Saints, the easy thing to do is to stay down because sometimes it’s more comfortable to ly in the prostrate position - defeated. It takes energy and a will to get to your feet and fight. God did not want Joshua in this position, nor did Mick want Rocky in this position. In boxing, a fighter only has ten seconds to get to his feet after being knocked down. In Joshua’s case, he only had so much time to get to his feet and deal with the sin in the camp. The children of Israel had other battles to fight and at this point, time was against him. In addition, you and I have only so much time. The longer we live in a state of defeat; the enemy will keep us from getting up and fighting for victory. I encourage you today, when the enemy comes in like a flood and knocks you down, get up, dust yourself off and get back into the fight. Remember saints, the enemy belongs under your foot not above your head. Psalms 110:1 says, “…The enemy is our footstool.” Our feet should be relaxed on his head. We have power over the enemy and he has no authority in our lives, although you may feel he has knocked you down to the canvas in life. You have a God that believes in you and loves you. You have a God that is in your corner saying, “Get up because God loves you!” If this has been a blessing, pass it on. Your brother in Christ, Steve Rogers
“Booking, Managing & Promoting today’s Christian Artists”
Email: Steve@rogersagency.net • Website: www.rogersagency.net
1148 Parrish Street Alexander City, Alabama 35010
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J e Th
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w e i v e R
STEPHANIE SMITH - The EP Others who fit in the self-penned genre of “girl rock” have seemed to tone down their drive for the powerful and poignant within the musical nuances of their latest projects. As for Stephanie Smith, running from those nuances in the completely opposite direction, seems to be her goal on this latest effort on Gotee Records. The first thing that will hit you as you listen is that within the genre of rock, Smith knows how to stretch boundaries. Nobody said the boundaries had to end at a certain place next to pop on one side and heavy metal on the other. As Smith has discovered, there’s a whole lot of sounds to experience in-between the two. The record kicks off with Back To Innocence a call to come back to what we once discovered when Christ first entered our lives. Heart Attack follows with the most energetic cut on the record – a lyric of the pain we feel when we leave the provision of God’s grace. Pieces of My Heart is a passionate cry to a Father who can heal every wound – even a broken heart. The record’s best lyric is If You Want The World To Change, an inspiring clarion call to become an agent of bringing God’s kingdom to this world by not shunning those who live in it. Closing the disc is Joshua - a call for the hand of God to reach in and tear down what is us and build in us who He wants us to become. Although I’m glad for new music from Smith, I’m hoping Gotee is thinking toward a full project following these poignant offerings. I think fans – and the world – are ready for much more from Stephanie Smith. - J Man
newsboys – BORN AGAIN How do I start this review but by saying – “He really does fit!” Yes, Michael Tait’s introduction as a newsboy is an absolute success. Most would disagree with me on that statement because they don’t want to change the dynamic that has worked for the past 12 years – thus forgetting that Peter Furler changed the band’s dynamic when he took the reigns from John James in 1995. With that said, this record is truly a success if don’t take into account the few missteps. Those missteps include covering Mighty To Save, a Hillsong favorite that would fit in an impromptu live setting but not on an original recording. The only other misstep is that the music is so electronic (a la Jeff Frankenstein) that Jody Davis and Duncan Phillips fade into the abyss of unheard riffs and rolls. Looking past that, this is a great start to Tait’s run as a newsboy. The title track, Born Again, which has been burning up the charts, is a fitting start to this great collection. Moving moments are the incredible fourth offering, Impossible, and the one that will easily find a home on radio, On Your Knees. Even the cover of Jesus Freak (with guest KJ-52 covering tobymac’s vocals) is a stroke of genius as it stays in tune with the original while successfully taking a classic cut to new heights. All in all, newsboys’ fans need to unite under the new flag that Michael Tait is waving. It will take us into a new era. I know I’m joining him on this trek, are you? - J Man
ERM - So how did you come up with the name earthworm? EW - Well, it’s not an awesome story, but one night at practice it was raining and we were tossing around name ideas and an ex member ran out to his car to get something and comes running back in and tells us about seeing an earthworm in a puddle. He says “why don’t we use the name Earthworm?” and we say “...yeah sure”. So it’s nothing really too special, but it’s pretty unique and everyone seems to remember it very well. ERM - What inspired you to make you have the sound like you? EW - Cuz I noticed it started out like an old school punk with hardcore and I have never heard that before. We wanted to make music we enjoyed, because we’ve always played in bands that sounded like everything else. We all really love pop punk and we all really love hardcore so we try to do our best to blend those two genres together. We also had a small problem with the way people were categorizing pop punk with all the breakdowns and really heavy parts. Although, we do have a few breakdowns some people just take it to an extreme and go a little overboard... ::cough:: A Day to Remember ::cough:: ERM - What was the first song you ever made and what was the theme and meaning of it to you? EW - The first song we ever wrote was the song on our myspace called Everytime. We wanted to have fun and have something that was easy for people to sing along to. The song is basically about people who you once called your friends. Things change and people take different paths, but the song is about not conforming to a certain lifestyle and sticking to what you think is the right thing for you. ERM - What was going through your mind when you had your first show and where was it? EW - “Wow, people really hate this” Everyone in the crowd wasn’t into us at all. People didn’t really know how to react to us and some of those same people still don’t. We have come a long way since then and now we’re loving every show we play. ERM - What do you guys do for fun when you have the spare time? EW - We usually don’t have much free time because of school and work. We like to watch movies, play Apples to Apples, video games, and just hang out with our friends. Keep in mind that this is usually was Earthworm practices turn into as well. We don’t get much work done ever haha. ERM - Who would you say your biggest supporters are? EW - Honestly, anyone who comes out to our shows and has a good time is supporting us. We love every single person who knows the words to our songs, whether it be one line or every line to ever song. Our best friends are always there for us too. Big shout outs to Tres, Brad, Brianna, Sara, Jon, Corey, Brenton’s mom, Gideon, and anyone else who comes to our shows to have fun. ERM - Who are some of you guys favorite bands right now and why? EW - Oh man, honestly there is too much to name. We all really have a diverse musical taste. Everything shapes how this band works in every way. ERM - Who are some bands you wanna share the stage with? EW - New Found Glory, Blink 182, Four Year Strong, Dr. Dre, Wu-Tang Clan, and Metallica (pre hair cut) ERM - What advice would you give kids who wanna be in a band? EW - Play music that you want to play, and never do it because it’s popular at the time. People who play music just to get famous don’t deserve anything. If you have something to say and you are genuine about it there will be people who will be willing to listen to you, and we are a walking testament to that. Enjoy what you do and never let a little bit of popularity get to your head. We will always be here to support local bands any way we can, because those small local bands are the future of this scene. If you take anything from us, take this: Love what you play, and play what you love.
What’s up Jesus Freakz? ash here With a Word. i knoW that When We are around our Friends We like to gooF oFF and have Fun...right? Well, one thing that We alWays need to remember is to alWays think oF him. no i’m not talking about the boy Who sits in Front oF you in Chem ii. i’m talking about god. he Wants us to bea good steWards toWards him. you don’t have to do What everyone else is doing in this World. you Want to be hardCore, then be a hardCore Christian. no that doesn’t mean you have to Wear tommy and hollister or Fit in With any Certain type oF look to be a Christian. the bible only tells us to be modest in our dress, in other Words, don’t let it all hang out. i personally am a member oF a Christian goth group. it doesn’t matter What Color you Wear or What type oF Fashion. god doesn’t Care about that. “do not ConForm any longer to the pattern oF this World, but be transFormed by the reneWing oF your mind. then you Will be able to test and approve What god’s Will is—his good, pleasing and perFeCt Will.” ..romans 12:2. don’t me like them, be hoW god Wants you to be, he Created you to be Just Who you are. so Why be anything else. you don’t have to do the drugs, or drink the beer, or sleep With anyone beCause it is expeCted oF you. listen iF you are going to be a Christian, and i really hope you are. *Wink, Wink*, then We need to not Just talk the talk, We have to Walk the Walk. the Christian Walk is the hardest there ever Was or ever Will be, but the reWards are magniFiCent. Wake up people! god doesn’t Want us to be halF in halF out.. its all or nothing With him. have you ever heard oF something Called a lukeWarm Christian? the bible talks about lukeWarm Christians. the people Who aren’t on Fire For him. the bible states that god Will speW the lukeWarm Christians out oF his mouth into sheol (hell). Come on people. do you Want to be vomit, puke, stomaCh bile? yea i didn’t think so. so get out your bibles and start reading and praying. ash out...god bless...roCk on
Who is Megan Kent? What is Love Gone Apparel? Well, Megan Kent is an 11 -year-old girl who is a clothing designer of her own company, Love Gone Apparel. Kent founded the company when she was only ten years old in November of 2010. And thanks to Megan’s mother Tricia they set up a website and found a manufacture to produce the shirts that Megan designed (smallbusiness. aol.com). From the Love Gone Website Megan Kent mentions she got the name back when unfortunately her parents divorced “their love was gone for each other” she says.
much, they were excited to bring the company to the music scene by endorsing new and seasoned bands, “seeing them grow and become successful as Love Gone Apparel grows and becomes more successful” Tricia Explains. LGA has many endorsements with musicians including VK Lynne, Scott Lindsey, Bury the Ladybird, At Last, We Dance, Drifted Too Far, Unknown impurity, Station to Station, Shot
In the beginning, the clothing line was for women but recently released their men’s line and shortly after, Scott Lindsey was endorsed to LGA. From A Interview with Teen Mag on “Seventeen. com” young entrepreneur Megan describes her clothing line “Like Ed Hardy but not as Harsh”. She said in interviews with Girl’s Life that she gets inspiration from her friends and other clothing lines, for example, Aeropostale by Both Sides, and Burden My and Hollister. Surrender (Via LGA’s Facebook Page). Megan says she also got to Love Gone Apparel creates a line give her shirts to bands like Sick of tattoo-print Rock and Roll in- Puppies during an interview with spired shirts. LGA only manu- Girl’s Life. factures shirts but according to Tricia Kent eventually they want Recently, LGA has collaborated to have a complete line of apparel with “Backstage Artist Lounge” for both men and women includ- to help get connected with some ing accessories. Since Megan and of the hottest rock stars. BAL her mother Tricia enjoys music so does so many things but in LGA’s
Case they “connect sponsors with talented bands for product sampling”(BAL Website). Christina Martin the founder of BAL, is mentoring Megan and putting her in the light of some very important people to help sky rocket her company. The Collaboration began two months ago on May 1, 2011 at the 94.5 The Buzz Buzzfest in Houston, Texas, then again two weeks later in St. Louis at KPNT 105.7 PointFest with the chance to dress 29 different bands(mi2n. com). Kent also went to the Oscars thanks to Alive! Expo, they made it possible for the Kent family to be included in the suite. There LGA gave shirts away and met with a few of the actors and artists there. In the last year of production Megan and her mother has shown so much progress and both can be nothing but happy. Kent creating this company proves to others that you can do anything you want as long as your determined enough. During an interview by “Girl’s Life”, she was asked what advice does she have on starting your own business, Megan replies “Don’t give up on your dream. You can’t just sit there and think it’s going to happen automatically or out of the blue. You have to work at it. I’ve been coming up with ideas for the past year and I didn’t give up. If I gave up, I wouldn’t be here”. Indeed, very motivational for someone who is only 11 years old. by George C.
Keep up with Megan and Love Gone Apparel on Facebook [Search: Love Gone Apparel], on twitter @LoveGoneApparel and Purchase her clothing on www.lovegoneapparel.com. Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
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Dangers to the heart
By: Johnathan Dunaway
I read a book years ago called Life is Tremen- all here so I will stick to the music. dous. It was written by a well known author My 15 year old bonus son loves heavy metal and motivational speaker named Charlie music. What he likes is the beat, the heavy “Tremendous” Jones. I also had a chance to bass line and the guitar riffs. However, the hear a speech that Mr. Jones made. One of words from the music get into your heart the things he said during that speech that and they can change who you are, how you has always stuck with me, and he was well act and what you believe. This past Christknown for saying was “You will be the same mas he went to visit his biological father person in 5 years you are today except for for the week. Now, my the people you meet and the books you wife and I always read.” Charlie Jones was have a week or ation m r o a man of strong faith two of transition f n put “The i u and he understood time for our two o y t a h t s t a that the people you older kids when r e a nd he and id a surround yourself with they come back d n i m r d u n o and the information from a visit with a y to p who o l and ideas that you put in their biologie v e into your mind and heart cal father.Norhelps d u become” o helps develop who and mally, things are what y what you become. In my good to go after those couple opinion, he left one thing of weeks. However, this time, my son grew out. I think the music you listen to can more and more disrespectful toward his be just as damaging or beneficial to you. I mother. He also grew more angry towards wanted to talk a little about the danger of me, his sister and his younger brother. You not being very discriminatory in choosing could not talk to him about anything withwhat you read and the people you hang out getting your head bitten off. He grew around with but those issues are so expan- more distant, his grades were suffering and sive that there is no way I could cover them he was spending an inordinate amount of
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time in his room. He also stopped reading his devotional. As his mom and I tried to determine what was wrong, because he would not open up to us, I realized that he was constantly listening to his MP3 player. I took it away from him to see what music he had it and I was shocked to find music that was angry and violent and had depressing and disrespectful themes in its lyrics. He had come back from his biological fathers with music from groups such as My Chemical Romance, Pantera and My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult on his MP3 player. I was not familiar with any of these bands, and after researching them and reading some of their lyrics, I am glad I was not familiar with them. My son told me, after I showed him some of the lyrics, that he had no idea they were saying that. He said he could not understand the words, he just liked the beat and the bass lines. He may not have consciously understood the words, but I could tell from his attitude and actions that they were having a negative impact on him.
Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
god is so good, and i don’t knoW Where i Would be Without him. my name is
daniel mccartney, and i play guitar in a full-time band called gideon, from tuscaloosa, alabama. if i took credit for anything i have going on in my life, then i Would be sinning. its amazing What god Will do When you let him take control of the talents he’s given you. i’m guilty myself of thinking that i have talent. i have no talent. everything belongs to god, and i am thankful he chose me and my brothers in gideon to play music. over and over We are aWed at the beauty of What god does for us. tour life can be hard at times, but god alWays seems to provide. there are many times that We just sit back in amazement at the fact that We even made it to the next city. something i’ve learned from being in this band is if you are Willing to be used, god Will use you in Ways you could never imagine. gideon has had the privilege of doing many great things that god has put in front of us. mission Work, shoW after shoW after shoW, and just being a touring band in general. We Want to give god the glory in everything We done. he has given us everything that We “oWn”, and he deserves the glory for every good deed and accomplishment We’ve done. i really Want everyone reading this to experience the joy that i and the rest of the boys in gideon have experienced from letting god take control of our band. the point in this article isn’t to tell you that gideon has been blessed, because We have been through tough times just like any band, but the point is to tell you that if you let god take control, then he Will bloW your mind. When god Wants something done he Will do it, and the tools he use for it may be you if you let it be. let god take control, and he Will change your life. daniel -- insanitybooking@gmail.com tour blog is xdanielx.tumblr.com
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Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
Era’s in Rock and Roll by Nick Romo
The powerful sound of rock and roll has penetrated every level of society. From its distant beginnings, individuals can recall rock and roll’s influence on their lives. For instance, Chuck Berry, Elvis, and Buddy Holly created radical melodies; accordingly, they dispatched those messages to a younger generation. Moreover, artists such as Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Hendrix, and Janis Joplin, elevated rock to a new apogee. Thus, advancing rock and roll into the middle ages. Rock has evolved exponentially in the last sixty years. Therefore, current generations have an abundance of old, and new rock artists to survey. Artists like Chuck Berry, Led Zeppelin, and Nirvana have influenced their respective generations robustly. Certainly, Chuck Berry can be affiliated with the birth of rock music. He is a musician, whom composed songs such as: Johnny B. Goode, Maybelline, and No Particular Place to Go. His music spoke about the life of his generation. Specifically, his songs were about relationships, and what the
younger generation did. hits, Stairway to Heaven, He related to even some of Kashmir, and Dazed and the youngest generation. Confused. Zeppelin proBesides, the young gen- duced musically powerful eration couldn’t help, but material. Likewise, their love rock and roll. In addi- lyrics can be considered tion, his message molded spiritual, and are often a a young teenager’s percep- large part of their music. tion, and reflections of life. Their message emulated In brief, Chuck Berry can love, and was sometimes be argued to be a corner- phantasmal. Their music stone in the foundation continues to be unrivaled. of rock and roll. His mu- After all, almost anyone, sic lived in the hearts and in modern day society, knows the name Led Zepminds of his generation. Likewise, Led Zeppelin pelin. had a copious affect on their generades, tion i s e “B era tion, and gen love g t n u u b they will o , the y n’t help oll.” continue ld dr to leave an cou ock an r Recently, an imprint on artist left the mold brogenerations to come. This group of ken. Nirvana influenced artists was epic. Their apex the current generation, could be referred to as, and bridged the gap bethe birth of a renaissance tween Hard and alternain rock music. Never has tive rock. Specifically, this a group of artists influ- form of music was called enced, such a myriad, of grunge. They related their musicians and fans. Zep- music to a new generapelin had a new genera- tion. Subsequent Nirvana tion to emulate, the new, songs are: Come as You war troubled generation. Are, Smells like Teen SpirUndoubtedly, they pro- it, and Lithium. Their lyrduced masterpieces that ics give insight to into a restand alone in the renais- cent generation’s mindset. sance of rock. They were Nirvana was writing songs a musical marvel. Spe- for a growing, young, and cifically, their paramount troubled generation. How
Extreme Rock Magazine Vol 1
did they relate to a troubled generation? An individual could reflect on the suicide of their lead vocalist, Kurt Cobain. Many of rock and roll’s artists went to the great beyond. Unfortunately, most had incipient careers. Artists like Nirvana, ushered in a new era of rock and roll. The modern era was born. Ultimately, Nirvana was a catalyst for the amalgamation, which is modern rock music. On the whole, these artists have inspired musicians and fans alike. Throughout the years, rock and roll has been cultivated, and molded into its progressive form. Additionally, its fans have evolved as well. Perhaps, in one way or another, evoking the next rock evolution. Rock and roll can transcend all generations. Its music is understood by a large variety of people throughout the world. Famous artists are never forgotten. So as history unfolds, these artists will be remembered and cherished by future generations.
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Definitely Meshuggah, their a massive influence on all of us....The Contortionist as well, their amazing... Misery Signals or Solace (Karl’s solo project, provided he built a live band of course).... The King Conquer guys (so fun to tour with and see live).... after The Burial.... Volumes...The list goes on and on.... (ERM) What does Bermuda eat on the road? (CB) The rest of the guys eat pretty much anything and everything....I eat a lot of oatmeal, peanut butter, wheat tortillas, protein bars, and coffee... (ERM) What is your “Guilty Pleasure” as far as movies/ video games/music go? (CB)I honestly don’t have the patience or coordination to play video games.... no movies are guilty pleasures, I love all types of movies.....but music there are a lot....some of Jonny Craig’s’ stuff....a lot of cheesy pop. (ERM) If you were the head of a label what 5 bands would you sign and why? (CB) AECHOES (Las Vegas): These guys are like family to us, I’ve watched them grow into what they are today. their proggy, but really heavy, and mix in some great sing along choruses like adtr, their all hard working guys, everything they do is from the heart, their beyond entertaining live, and they’d be fun for any band they toured with. Interview by Reese N.
Recently, I got a chance to chat with Corey Bennett of Bermuda. Here is what he said regarding a plethora of topics.
ROOKS (Illinois): What’s not to like about rooks? their like meshuggah with an east cost hard core aesthetic and attitude. Once you get into them, your hooked......their so pissed, and its all genuine. Its criminal that they’ve been passed over by labels thus far...
(ERM) So I’m sure you as a band have heard of Design The Skyline. What do you think of them? (CB) Design The Skyline are freaking horrible.... Victory signs a lot off BS like “The Bunny And The Bear”
FORMS (Michigan): I cant remember how I stumbled upon these guys, but I heard their original track “angel” and was immediately impressed, their very groove oriented, progressive and catchy....
(ERM) When will you be releasing new material? (CB) Before the end of the year, Got 8 tracks written so far
EXISTENCE (NJ): We played a show with these guys on the “ sanitation of humanity” tour....they absolutely kill it. Think the ghost inside or older for the fallen dreams mixed with circle of contempt. Great stage presence, great guys.
(ERM) Will it sound as pissed off as the ep? (CB) Going for 12 songs, 3 instrumentals it’s angrier actually, we’ve all been through hell the last 6 months (ERM) What other bands/albums will it sound like? (CB) Meshuggah, Rooks, Misery Signals, Thee Contortionist (ERM) What is your favorite town to go through on tour? (CB) So far the best town on any tour has been Springfield Illinois, this small club called the black sheep cafe, you ant even really call it a club, its an empty store front with the windows blacked out, a tiny p.a., no real stage, and holes in the walls. KIDS GO OFF HARD IN THAT PLACE!!! It’s maybe 150 capacity room, and it was filled well beyond its capacity..... kids in the rafters, on the stage....everywhere..... (ERM) What is your least favorite town to go through? (CB) There is no one town we hate, there are just towns or cities where no scene has been established yet..... eventually we will get back to those cities and there will be more and more kids each time.
FRONTLINES (PA): We got to play with these kids in Allentown Pennsylvania....think rooks meets bury your dead.... sick presence, heavy, groovy, driving....hard working as well..... (ERM) What bands are currently on your IPod? (CB) Heavy stuff: A DARK ORBIT, TONY DANZA, KING CONQUER, MESHUGGAH,AECHOES,ADTR, the newest BORN OF OSIRIS, THE DEFTONES, THRICE, EXISTENCE, ROOKS, FRONTLINES,FORMS, LEGEND, and the newest CATALEPSY.... I also really enjoy some lesser-known hip-hop like p.o.s./ Doomtree, and Grieves.
Bermuda is currently signed to Mediaskare records.Their newest EP Isolationist(s) came out recently go pick up!
(ERM) Who would accompany you on your “Dream Tour”? (CB) Wow....How many bands can I choose here? !haha!
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This page is deadicated to our subscribers... That’s you. This will be the home of our “We Where There” Section. We would love to see where the action is and so would our readers. To get things started send in those pictures and get them published in the Oct/Nov/Dec issue of ERM.
Send them via email to extremerockmagazine@yahoo.com With a caption of where you where when you took the picture and the name of the person, venue or band (with your name attached). Remember to have fun and get your pictures published with ERM!!
xtreme dig by Mike Floyd
I am pumped about the opportunity to write and teach with eXtreme Rock Magazine. I wanna shoot you straight...other than a little Demon Hunter the “Xtreme Rock”-type scene is not quite my dealio. You guys like your clothes outside the box...I am just a pretty plan-jim kinda guy. You guys like your music outside the box...I love cool worship stuff and a little 116 Clique. You guys may even like your sports a little outside the box...ok, I love xtreme sports (well, watching them). There is, though, one thing I love looking at and doing outside the box...digging into the Scriptures. Hey, no “sunday school” stuff here. I want you to be stretched. I want you to learn and desire to take Scripture, remove the cookie-cutter way we are used to looking at things and go outside the norm with the “logos” word of God. We are going to look at Scriptures in a different light. We will always dig deeper. We will always use the context of the narrative story to set us straight. I don’t want you to read this section of the magazine every month and walk away believing everything I have said. I want you to put down eXtreme Rock Magazine and go do some more digging and get a revelation from God. In Matthew 16 Jesus said to the disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” Jesus’ reply? “But who do you say I am?” The big mouth of the group, Peter, answered first, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” What Jesus says next is the “rock” upon which Jesus said He would build His ekklesia. “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church...” (emphasis mine) The ekklesia (Greek for “church” - and I promise you, He wasn’t referring to what you and I normally think of when we say “church”) is built on this: The living God, who is in heaven, revealing Himself to YOU. The ekklesia was never meant to be built upon man. God desires us to know Him. And His revealing of Himself to a community of people is the bed-rock on which the ekklesia (a vibrant, visible community who believe on Jesus Christ and who gather together to express Him) is to be built. Not me revealing Him to you; not tradition revealing Him to you; not contemporary christianity revealing Him to you. God revealing Himself directly to you. Our goal with eXtreme Rock Magazine is to provide you with a tool of resources to help you draw near to that living God who is in heaven. We can’t spoon feed you. It is time for Christ followers to get off “momma’s milk” and start chewing on some “big boy” food. ...and that is exactly what we are going to do. I am looking forward to this. Like my friends in the 116 Clique say, “You wanna know Him? You gotta dig...” What is mine is yours... Mike.
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