Incognito issue 15 by Groovy Rutabaga Publications

INCOGNITO

music, models, and more

Irie Formation

Vol. 15, September 2013

music, models, and more

CHIEF WRITER Gary Schwind LAYOUT Rachel “Rae” Park Gary Schwind STAFF WRITERS Carin Merritt Rachel “Rae” Park PHOTOGRAPHER George Swar CONTRIBUTORS Bobbo Byrnes Jens Forster Adam Griffith Lizard McGee Ian Miller Randy Mroczynski Heather O’Hare Rachel “Rae” Park

SUBMISSIONS Models, Music, Artists, Writers: incognitomusicmag@gmail.com OR PO Box 2070 Mission Viejo, CA 92690

VISIT US! www.incognitomusicmagazine.com Follow us on Twitter! Like us on Facebook!

FEATURED ON OUR COVERS (front cover)

Big Sugar photo

Photo courtesy of the Big Sugar band. Alterations by Rae Park.

(back cover)

Vanessa photo

Photo courtesy of George Swar.

OOPS! WE GOOFED!

The numbering was off in the Table of Contents in our last issue.

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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CONTENTS

Incognito / September 2013

FEATURES

Natty Nation (bassist Jah Boogie pictured) Our second music feature this month!

2 Big Sugar Incognito’s featured artist 6 Vanessa This month’s featured model 17 Natty Nation Second music feature

IN EVERY ISSUE 1 10

Letter

from

the

Editor 28 The Flashback

Beer Reviews

29 Cinephile

20 The Merritts of Mixology

Monthly movie reviews

22 Have You Heard?

31 Don’t Be That Guy

24 Album Reviews

32 Ask Uncle Sal

26 The Guest List

33 In Our Next Issue

Top 5 Movie Monologues with Rock and Roll intentions incognitomusicmagazine.com

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EDITOR’S LETTER

It’s September and that means a couple of things: trying to squeeze everything you can out of those last days of summer, and the beginning of football season. We of course can’t make summer longer, but our two featured bands - Big Sugar and Natty Nation - make good-vibin’ tunes that will bring to mind sunny days and good times. Do yourself a favor; fix our cocktail of the month (the Cable Car, as expertly described by our mixologist Carin) and sip on it as you listen to our two featured artists. It will keep summer in your soul even as the days get colder. As for football season, few things are a bigger deal here in the United States. We don’t know about you, but we think Vanessa makes a football jersey look better than any 300-pound defensive tackle. We have a first in The Guest List, written this month by Lizard McGee of Earwig. He is the first non-California resident to provide this guest column. On a personal note, it’s a big deal because Earwig is a band I used to see frequently when I was a student at The Ohio State University. In this column, Lizard discusses movie monologues with rock and roll intentions and shows he is as evocative writing prose as he is writing lyrics. Our beer panel this month reviewed one of my favorite styles of beer: Extra Special Bitter (ESB). Don’t let the name scare you away. They’re not really that bitter. If they’re well done, they’re quite balanced. See what our guys think about five different examples of this beer style. Seen any good movies recently? Our CinePhile Rae has, and she lets you know which ones are worth your time and which ones you can skip. This being the reggae issue, I want to close by telling you to keep it all irie and send out good vibes whenever you can. Until next time, you take ‘er easy. Gary Schwind

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Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

An Interview with Big Sugar by Carin Merritt

ig Sugar is a band that straddles blues, reggae, and rock. By phone, Gordie Johnson (vocals) discussed his songwriting style, moving to Texas, and more. Q: Music seems to be in your destiny; you have such a passion for it, you even taught yourself how to play the guitar. How do the other members in the band relate?

A: No, because I never really set out to categorize one thing or the other. I came from a jazz music back round where I learned jazz, blues, calypso, and country songs. After that I just devoured music, I loved anybody who was good with music.

Q: Initially, you started with guitar/rock. When you first met Gary, were you apprehensive about working with him?

Q: Along with playing music, you’ve also transitioned into production. How did that come about?

Kelly Hoppy came from a blues background. [With him] we just liked the sound; whatever A: Everybody comes from a different back- instrument he picked up and played, we just ground. It’s not like we grew up together and liked [it]. We were like, “Hey man, just pick up were playing in a garage band as teenagers; we something and blow into it and let’s see what actually all come from different places. Some happens.” of us even come from different countries. Gary grew up in Kingston, Jamaica. He learned about The thing with everybody in the band, you know music out there and then moved to Canada in [we] just let them do what it is that they do and 1976. We met shortly after that. I never did it all comes together to make the sound of the band. reggae music before I met him.

A: I was always into recording and I worked in 2

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Photo courtesy of St. Alvia.

a studio when I was really 19 and 20, sleeping on couches and stuff like that. I had been hired to session work all of the time, so I had a pretty intimate knowledge of the studio. So when Big Sugar started, I really had an opinion of how it should sound. The record labels let me sort of take the reins and be the producer. Q: You’re from Canada, how did you end up in Texas? A: The musical history here is so rich, and I always had an affinity for the music and artists that came from here. I started coming here about 1993. I met some musicians from here, came here to hang out, and I would come down here almost every year and write, or play, or just reach into my inspiration. [In Texas], music seems more important to peoples daily lives than it does in other places.

the other pressures that surround the music industry. That was my attitude all along, although it hadn’t been very popular at times. Q: What’s your writing process for your songs? A: It’s extremely varied. I just like to record good songs, and I don’t necessarily have to have written them. I come from a jazz and country music back round where people recorded songs that were much older. Even in grass-folk music, there isn’t an author you can find for some songs. And I don’t have an explicit need to sing only my own songs. I know a lot of records and song writers and sometimes I’ll just pick a song and do it because I just admire it. I write songs for other people too, [some] that are not suited for Big Sugar. Songwriting to me is not mutually the same as performing. They don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand.

Q: You had called the band quits for awhile and then Q: How is it performing with Big Sugar? phoned everybody back up to get together again. Was that a risk? A: Well, the main issue right now is that we live so many miles apart. We all used to live in the A: No, because the band never ended on any same town, but now it involves flights and all kind of turmoil, it wasn’t like we weren’t get- other things like that. It puts a bit of an effort ting along and there was a lawsuit or something getting everybody in the same room. But when like that, I just need to make music and I need to we do get together it’s kind of a rare [energy], get inspired and we had been touring and doing because when we get in the studio we’re all so shows for ten years. That’s physically exhaust- excited. ing. I kind of felt like we were burning out and I wanted to do some other things. I still want- Being on stage is not like a special-occasion; it’s ed to make music so I came down here (Texas) normal, it’s where I belong. It’s when I go into produced records and started other bands. I got normal mode. On stage, when the lights are on, back to playing, so I called up the guys to get the gear is working, and the crowd is having a back together for Big Sugar, because we all really good time, everything is good. wanted to. Q: Now that you’ve been in Texas, what do you think about the culture has changed Big Sugar, in a positive or a negative way? A: It didn’t really change it, being down here aligns with my attitudes and beliefs. [It’s okay] being a rebel down here. When you have somebody like Willie Nelson walking into the studio on any given weekday, it keeps you on your toes. It reminds you that, ‘here is a guy that just did it his own way.’ He didn’t care about the industry trends or anything else. And there are so many musicians that just follow their inspiration and they make good music without any care for all incognitomusicmagazine.com

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

anessa Perez is a model from Orange County, California, and we think she does a great job of getting you in the mood for football season. She discusses, her love for the Cowboys (Tony Romo, step your game up, the food she is most likely to indulge int, and the next thing to cross off her bucket list. Oh, and if you get the chance, ask her about Boone’s Farm. What kind of modeling do you normally do?

Describe what you’re like when you watch your team play. Cheerful & loud. What is something about you that people find surprising? I have a kind heart when you get to know me.

Fashion/editorial, and lingerie.

If you’re going to overindulge on any food, what would it be?

Describe how you felt at your first photoshoot.

Double chocolate brownies.

Confident.

What’s the next thing to cross off your bucket list?

Who’s your football team?

Going to Sea World or rock climbing!

Dallas Cowboys Who’s your least favorite player? Don’t really have a least favorite. But if anything, Tony Romo needs to improve himself & be more involved in his game planning so he can be a better player. incognitomusicmagazine.com

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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The Bitter Truth September Beer Reviews The extra special bitter (ESB) may sound like an intimidating style of beer. Sure you expect some bitterness from your beer, but to have it right in the name. It works in the UK, but American markets traditionally have been less accepting of bitters as a style. The thing is, when an ESB is done right, it’s really not bitter at all. In fact, the balance of malt and hops is one of the signatures of the ESB. But don’t just take my word for it. Check out this description from Beer Advocate. “ESBs are essentially more agincognitomusicmagazine.com

gressive and more balanced Bitters, both in alcohol and hop character, but nothing overpowering. Color range will be similar, though leaning towards the darker end of the scale; dark golds to copper. Low carbonation. Malts tend to be more pronounced, often toasty and fruity. And despite bitter being in its name, ESBs are not really all that bitter. They key to an ESB is balance.” Our usual cast (plus Randy, who has joined us before) was on hand for this tasting. Now on to the reviews.

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

Taste

Adam: Wheat, fruity, malty, sort of weak and mild. Gary: Some caramel flavor carries through to the palate. It has a good, dry hop finish and excellent balance. I’d never guess from the taste that this is 5.9%. Ian: It’s nice: light but not piss. Any hops are for preservation but it’s not so bitter because it’s so well-balanced. Jens: It’s malty sweet, and bitter with honey on the back end. Randy: It’s subtly hoppy, not overpowering. The finish is consistent and stays on the tongue in a pleasant way. Even my burps taste good after drinking this.

I would drink this…

Adam: As a session beer. This is light enough to drink in copious amounts. Gary: Excessively. Ian: Through an entire day. Jens: Watching a soccer game in a London pub. Randy: Almost anywhere. It can go at the bar, with food, in the backyard. It’s light enough to pound, and burly enough to stand up to food.

I would recommend this to…

Adam: Someone who is used to drinking lagers. Gary: People who are getting a good beer session on. Ian: Anyone, even people that don’t like beer. This could turn a wine snob into a beer enthusiast. Jens: A Fulham fan. It’s a middle of the road beer for a fan of an average EPL team. Randy: Almost anyone. Even the ladies wouldn’t freak out.

Fuller’s ESB Technical retention)

Stuff

(nose,

color,

head

Overall impression

Adam: I wasn’t very impressed. While not bad, I wouldn’t rush out to purchase this beer. Adam: Amber color with a mild head. Gary: Man, this goes down easy. The roasted Gary: It’s a deep copper color with a pretty malts give it a caramel flavor, the hop finish is decent head. It smells like caramel and fruit. clean and dry. You wouldn’t need to convince Ian: Mild head and a sweet smell - coriander. It’s me to take another one of these. a transparent blonde-red. Ian: It’s smooth. Jens: I smell molasses and a hint of bitterness. Jens: It’s a solid British beer. I would drink this The color is clean copper. It has almost no head. over a lot of other British beers. Randy: It has a golden color, nice clarity, and Randy: It’s very good and easy drinking. I’m small bubbles. The nose is light and there is no well surprised. head to speak of.

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Food-pairing suggestion

Adam: Pickled eggs Gary: Brownies Ian: A light lunch of British food Jens: Bangers and mash Randy: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Score (out of 10)

Adam: 6.6 – it’s right in the middle, straddling good and bad. Gary: 8 Ian: It’s a sneaky 9. It’s not amazing, but smooth, easy, and classic. Jens: 6 Randy: 8.5

rust color with ruby at the rim. It’s hazy with about a ¼-inch head. Ian: It has a sweet but savory malt smell with a Middle Eastern spice note. It’s cloudy and dark red. Jens: It has a rich, malty nose. It’s hazy brown and the head is gone after a second. Randy: I smell caramel on the nose with a trace of fruit (apples?) and cloves. The head is small initially, but is gone in 60 seconds. It’s dark and opaque.

Taste

Adam: It opens sweet. It’s lemony in the middle with a dry, boozy finish. Gary: The green apple carries through to the palate. It’s a little tart and pretty dry with a hint of pepper. It’s well-balanced. Ian: It’s very complex – sweet with a bite. Jens: It’s more bitter than sweet. I like the bitter finish. Randy: It’s very effervescent on the tongue. The sparkling wipes out the initial flavor, but the aftertaste lingers. Alcohol is somewhat apparent in the flavor. I get hints of vegetable in the aftertaste.

I would drink this…

Adam: While listening to blues on TV at beer panel. Gary: On a rainy day in an English pub. Ian: Not all day. Jens: In a smoky bar by the ocean. Randy: If I ran out of Fuller’s.

I would recommend this to…

Adam: Someone who owes me money. Gary: Guys who have just spent 10 hours working in a factory or a mine. Ian: Someone who I think will make a really good bitter-beer face. Jens: A Newcastle United fan. It tastes similar to Newcastle and I would give this to a Newcastle fan after they lose a match because they would be bitter. Randy: People just released from prison.

Adnams Southwold Bitter Technical retention)

Stuff

(nose,

color,

head Overall impression

Adam: It’s a murky amber with a moderate head that fades fast. Gary: I smell green apple on the nose. It’s a deep incognitomusicmagazine.com

Adam: It’s bitter, but not to the point that it’s undrinkable. However, that’s not to say that this is a good beer. Gary: It’s not great. If I really needed a beer, I

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

guess this would suffice. I’m not rushing out to buy more of it. Ian: It’s unique. I can see people hating this, or others just enjoying and trying to figure out what’s going on with this beer. It tries too hard to be different. Jens: It’s good. I like the bitterness in this versus the Fuller’s. I thought it would have a higher alcohol content. Randy: It’s It doesn’t do anything special. It’s not flavor-forward, but it’s also not subtle. It’s very middle of the road and I don’t even know what the intention was with this.

Food-pairing suggestion

Adam: Doritos tacos from Taco Bell Gary: Jambalaya to overpower this beer Ian: Salty fish and chips Jens: Fish and chips Randy: Abalone and kidney pie, spotted dick

Score (out of 10) Adam: 4 Gary: 4.5 Ian: 3 Jens: 7.5 Randy: 4

Noble Ale Works The Good Ship ESB Technical retention)

Stuff

(nose,

color,

head

Adam: It has a decent head and is a hazy light amber. Gary: It’s a very hazy rust-copper color. It has no head to speak of and smells more hoppy than the others we’ve tried so far. Jens: The nose is minimal and weak. It’s a cloudy, golden color with small bubbles. Randy: It’s a nice, light-golden color with practically no head. It has a hoppy nose, but it’s just on the right side of good.

Taste

Adam: Bitter, fizzy, hoppy. Gary: It’s a little flat and pretty singular in the hop character. It’s pretty clean and very dry. I can tell pretty easily that this isn’t an English ESB. Jens: It’s malty and a little bitter. It’s weak and hard to distinguish anything. Randy: It’s hoppy and tending toward overly so with a bitter front. It holds the flavor nicely and doesn’t degenerate into something nasty. It trends toward the flavor of an IPA.

I would drink this…

Adam: When I want to get lucky. Gary: Infrequently. Jens: No need to drink this again. Randy: With food. It’s not a session beer. It’s a sipper.

I would recommend this to…

Adam: People who usually drink IPAs. Gary: Veterans just returning from a place where there is no beer. Jens: A fan of the opposing team. Their team sucks, just like this beer. Randy: Beer snobs and IPA-heads – people who like their beer to “make a statement.”

Overall impression

Adam: I like the level of effort, but the finished product is just OK. Gary: It’s not bad, but it’s very different than an English ESB. The malt character isn’t very noticeable. 13

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Ian: It’s more like an IPA. Jens: BAD. Randy: It’s good. It knows what it is and does what it does. It’s a little of a showoff: a brewer brewing to impress is brewer buddies.

Food-pairing suggestion

Adam: Bacon-wrapped oysters Gary: Something very bland – tilapia with just a squeeze of lemon Ian: Grilled fish with lemon butter Jens: Gum or Tic Tacs…anything to get rid of this beer Randy: Thai food and steaks

Score (out of 10) Adam: 6.2 Gary: 5 Ian: 5 Jens: 1 - No flavor Randy: 6

AleSmith Anvil ESB Technical retention)

Stuff

(nose,

color,

head

Adam: It’s red with a moderate head. Gary: It smells like cherries fermenting in a musty basement. It’s a very cloudy rust color and doesn’t have much head. Jens: It has a good ESB nose: sweet and a little bitter. It’s dark and cloudy with no head. Randy: It’s a nice, deep-golden color with no head and caramel on the nose.

Taste

Adam: It’s bitter like a divorced woman with six cats. Gary: What the hell am I tasting? Grass? Sawdust? Jens: It has a nice overall taste with a good bitter finish. Randy: Again with the effervescence at the front. The effervescence sticks around and doesn’t dissipate. The brightness gets in the way of it tasting like anything in particular. It did not make my burps all that pleasant.

I would drink this…

Adam: If I ran out of cooking wine and Scope to drink. Gary: If it were the last beer in my fridge or the bar. Jens: In an American bar with a British-pub theme. Randy: Probably not again.

I would recommend this to…

Adam: High-school kids. Gary: Mustachioed hipsters with black-framed glasses who have no idea what an ESB is. Jens: Anyone who likes Newcastle to get them to drink an American beer with British intentions. Randy: People who like their beers all fizzy.

Overall impression

Adam: This shit’s weak. Gary: I never thought an AleSmith beer would disappoint me, but this one does. I never did figure out what I was tasting and I wouldn’t order it again. Ian: This is my second favorite of the day. Jens: Solid beer. Randy: It’s fair: not terrible, but not particularly good. incognitomusicmagazine.com

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

Food-pairing suggestion

Adam: Hobo beans Gary: Cherry cobbler Ian: Pulled pork sliders Jens: Pulled pork Randy: CornNuts, goldfish (not the crackers)

Score (out of 10) Adam: 3.6 Gary: 4.1 Ian: 7 Jens: 8 Randy: 4

Randy: It’s a dark, burnt orange color with minimal bubbles and a bit of alcohol on the nose.

Taste

Adam: It tastes like booze: sweet, bitter, and bold. Gary: It has a very rich flavor and tastes like a good alcohol content. It’s sweet up front with a nice, dry hop finish. Ian: I taste the higher alcohol percentage. Jens: It has a big sweet (candy-like) malt character and it’s a little bitter. Randy: The flavor is fairly complex. The sweetness and bitterness are balanced, but pretty pronounced. It’s a big ole beer and tastes like they dropped a shot of Jameson in it.

I would drink this…

Adam: When I don’t have to drive. Gary: While wearing a smoking jacket and sitting next to a fire. Ian: Very carefully, slowly, but excitedly and not often. I wouldn’t drink more than two. Jens: A lot when I need a break from IPAs. This is a good find. Randy: To get loaded.

I would recommend this to…

Adam: Blues singers, or pillagers and looters. Gary: Just about anyone who likes a good beer. Ian: Real beer connoisseurs. Jens: A Man. U. fan. It’s a winner! Randy: Black widows trying to poison their husbands, and lovers of big, bold beers.

Overall impression

Wychwood King Goblin Technical retention)

Stuff

(nose,

color,

Adam: This beer is not fucking around. Gary: I’d want to drink more of this, and I’d pay the price for it. Ian: It’s both sweet and bitter, but neither neutralizes. It’s very complex and special. Jens: Very nice beer. Randy: It’s good to pretty good. I can’t drink a head ton of it. It’s a big loaf of beer. I liked it a lot even though it tried hard to make me not like it.

Adam: It’s murky amber with a foamy head. Gary: It’s ruby colored and smells sweet and malty. It gets about a 1/2 –inch head when you swish it around. Jens: I smell burnt malt. It’s a dark, cloudy brown with good head retention. 15

Food-pairing suggestion

Adam: Fish and chips Gary: Jerk pork Ian: Pulled pork sliders with slaw Jens: ?

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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Randy: Raw elk? Tiger penis stew? This is really an after-dinner drink. Food is frightened of this beer.

Score (out of 10) Adam: 7.8 Gary: 8.5 Ian: 8.5 Jens: 9.5 Randy: 6.5

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Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

Natty Nation N

atty Nation is a reggae band from Madison, Wisconsin. By phone, Jah Boogie (bass, vocals) and Aaron Konkol (keyboards, backing vocals) discussed the band’s longevity, live shows, and what they would be doing if they weren’t making music. Compare Natty Nation now to when the band started. Jah Boogie: We got keyboards. We didn’t have keyboards when we first started, so it’s a different sound. There was more guitar sound when we started: two guitars, sometimes three. It gave us more of a rock sound. Not to say that we don’t have that now. Our songwriting is more advanced. Aaron Konkol: I wasn’t in the band until 2002. I was in high school. Natty Nation actually got me back into reggae. I was into reggae in middle school. I got a way from it for a while and was into ska and punk. All of a sudden, my friend was like, “Let’s go see this new reggae band on the square.” Turns out that was one of Natty’s first shows and they were awesome. It was roots reggae with a rock vibe to it, which I hadn’t encountered much before. That turned me on. It had its own sound. At that time, there was J-Mac was the other lead singer who has since passed away. He was Jamaican, so that’s definitely different now. 17

Considering the band has been together so long, are there any tips you could give for staying together as a band? JB: We can’t reveal those secrets. Is it just something that happens out of luck? AK: Absolutely not. It takes a lot of hard work. Defining tasks for each person to do, defining roles. If someone’s not good at booking, don’t have them book shows. Everybody doing what they’re good at and what they want to do. I’ve seen in some bands where one guy does all the legwork and the other guys sit back and watch him. AK: Mm-hmm. It can be. You can also have the issue of having too many cooks in the kitchen. That’s why I say define it. Then when decision time comes, and everyone says everyone gets an equal say. The guy who has been doing all the work gets the final say. Everybody else can give their opinion. If nobody wants to do the booking, you can give them some percentage. That way if a guy is doing something he doesn’t like to do, there’s no animosity. Having those defined positions is important. And defining your goals, making sure everyone is on the same page, and

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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Photos courtesy of The Mahones.

checking in with those goals regularly.

that.

I have your live album which is two hours of AK: They’re so cold, they could just go on formusic. How typical is that of one of your per- ever. I saw them in about 2006 and at one point formances? there was a guitar solo that went on for at least 15 minutes. At no point was I not totally enthralled JB: We always play at least a couple hours. and entertained. They know how to do it. That’s our usual thing: 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the situation. JB: That’s awesome. The way the music industry is going with that 35-minute or 45-minute AK: Normally once we get started, we don’t set, that goes a long with the whole pop bubblewant to stop. When we roll out of the van after gum thing. You know, you chew it and spit it driving five or seven hours we might say, “Let’s out real quick. We go with the old-school vein just do one 90-minute set.” At that point, you’re where shows were always long no matter what beat. When we get to the stage, about 10 minutes the genre. in, we don’t want to stop. All of a sudden it’s two hours later and we still have four songs. AK: Nowadays there are so many bands doing the same thing, you have to stand out and give JB: That shows you the power of the music. people a reason to want to pay the 10 dollars That’s what drives it. or whatever to get into the show. If they know they’re going to get two hours of music: A) that’s AK: We’d rather play more than play less. a good reason for them to get there early and B) for them to be willing to spend that money. Two That’s a welcome thing. Everything here in hours of entertainment for 10 bucks is pretty southern California. Bands here get 35-minute good. sets or 45-minute sets and they don’t have the freedom to do that. It’s nice to have that free- Of which album are you most proud? Why? dom and to put it to use. JB: I would say Journey. That was the first one, AK: After 35 minutes, I’m just getting going. where it all began. Otherwise I would say we’ve yet to make it. We’re always trying to outdo ourJB: That’s a whole other world right there. selves the next time around. AK: We’re so particular about our sound. We’re sticklers for making sure everybody’s comfortable. It takes us an hour and a half to sound check. Then we like to take some time to walk away from the stage, eat a little, bit, and chill out. By the time that’s all done, to only play for 35 minutes, that’d be pretty ridiculous.

AK: I wasn’t a part of Journey, but to me that’s a classic reggae album. It’s the reason I took Natty seriously. I was at the show and it was awesome but then I heard the album and I said “Wow! This is as good as any reggae album I’ve heard.” I was pretty well-versed in reggae at that point. Journey set the tone for the rest of the career of the band. I’m really proud of this live album. We Exactly. Hearing about your performances re- spent a lot of time mixing it and making sure it minds me of one time when I saw P-Funk at was right. It’s definitely the best representation the House of Blues in Anaheim. They played for of what we do. The engineer is a genius. The three hours straight and they didn’t stop until sound quality is as good as any studio album the people at the House of Blues closed the cur- I’ve heard. That’s the album I’ve been a part of tains on them. that I’m most proud of. AK: (laughs)

What’s next for Natty Nation?

JB: That’s what we try to live up to.

AK: We’re working on a full-length studio album. It will probably be between nine and 13 tracks. Right now we’re working on the single.

You don’t feel cheated when you get a show like incognitomusicmagazine.com

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

It’s going to be a 12-inch vinyl. It will be one song on each side plus the dub. That will be the first time we’ve done vinyl. The single is called “Meditation.” So on the one side it will be “Meditation” and the dub version. The B side will be a new song called “Divine Spark” and the dub version. “Meditation” is the single, but the name of the album is going to be Divine Spark. We filmed a video for “Meditation” that is in postproduction right now. Hopefully, once we have the vinyl, we’ll release the video. We’re planning to release the album in late summer or early fall. What would you be doing if you weren’t making music? JB: Teaching music, I guess. I was playing music since I was about your son’s age, banging on stuff and being artistic that way. I always have sounds and beats and all kinds of things rolling through my head. I would roll that into something else I guess. AK: I’ve been taking piano lessons since I was three. I grew up in a pretty musical family. I’m the same way. Before I could even talk, I was singing. It’s an impossible to answer that. It’s more natural for me to play music than to talk to you right now.

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Photo courtesy of Carin Merritt.

The Merritts of Mixology Cable Car by Carin Merritt When I think of rum an image of Captain Jack Sparrow pops in my head as he’s screaming, “But why is the rum gone?!” Although this stereotype associating pirates with rum is cliché, there is an actual historical base behind it. Pirates mixed rum with water or beer to make “bumbo,” or “grog” as the Royal Navy called it. Rum has a dirty little past, serving as a medium for economic exchange during the times of slavery and trade in the Triangular Trade Route. Christopher Columbus himself “discovered” incognitomusicmagazine.com

-much like he apparently did other things- the sugar cane, acquired in the Canary Islands, where it was found distilling the plant could create an alcoholic beverage. Basically, rum has been involved in very naughty things in a very controversial historical time of our planet, and that makes it more than okay in my book. Essentially, rum is a liquor most associated with the Caribbean, and rightly so. (Thus a rum drink in the reggae issue.) The majority of production

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still occurs in the Caribbean and Latin America where the climate is perfect for the growth of sugar cane. Many processes such as aging the product in oak barrels have been found to change the flavor and color of the rum spirit which, much like tequila, has widely different tastes and uses based on the way it has been fermented.

orange wedge or twist. Cheers. Ingredients: ½ oz Orange Curacao liquer (triple sec is an okay substitute) 1 oz Spiced Rum ½ oz lime juice ½ oz sweet and sour mix

Light rum, clear in color, is used in many mixed drinks. The Rum Runner and Mai Tai are recognizable staples using this ingredient. Aging rum longer creates a darker-colored rum, these best for sipping on - sans mixers - to appreciate the natural taste. Spiced rums are extremely popular, especially during the holidays. These rums have a variance of flavor bases, some with hints of vanilla and others with hints of pumpkin spice. Spiced rums are great for mixing with holiday classics such as eggnog and also will serve as the main ingredient for the cocktail of the month. In 1996, a man named Tony Abou-Ganim, master of balancing perfect ratios of cocktail ingredients, invented a drink called the Cable Car. Tony created this drink in San Francisco, the city that inspired the name. He took spiced rum, mixed in a dash of orange flavored liqueur, squeezed in some lime and topped it with sweet and sour. Since then, the Cable Car has become a classic, perfect for any occasion with its simple structured yet layered taste. The Cable Car, not to be confused with the Sidecar, isn’t too strong or too sweet. It’s smooth, refreshing, easy to make and easier to drink. It is okay to pour this concoction into a rocks glass on ice, however, it is more aesthetically pleasing to turn this into a martini, dressed up with a sugar or cinnamon rimmed glass. To make the Cable Car, you’ll need a martini glass, ice, a shaker, strainer, cinnamon or sugar, orange slices and fresh limes. To prep the martini glass, take a lime wedge and slide it around the rim of the glass to create an adhesive surface. Dip the glass in sugar or cinnamon (or both) making sure that it sticks along the rim. Take the shaker and fill it halfway with ice. Next, pour all of the ingredients into the shaker. Shake well and strain the mixture into the martini glass. You can garnish with an 21

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Have You Heard?

Trash Titan (Los Angeles) trashtitan.bandcamp.com One day I was (as I frequently do) randomly searching for music on Bandcamp. I don’t even remember what search term I used to lead me to Trash Titan (possibly groove rock), but I am glad my search led me to this band. Trash Titan is a band that works some serious grooves into its heavy rock. The guitar is laden with fuzz and certainly grabs the attention. More than that, however, is the bass. You know sometimes when you see a band, you can feel the bass lines go right through you. Well, Trash Titan has managed to capture that sound in a recording. No, I’m not kidding. And if all that weren’t enough, the band throws some slide guitar into “The Dog Song.” Frankly, it’s like this band knows me. Fuzz rock with slide guitar? Sign me up. incognitomusicmagazine.com

The Spasms (Melbourne, Australia) thespasmsband.bandcamp.com I came across this band when randomly searching for bands to feature on Trashy Tuesday and I was hooked immediately. The obvious thing is to tell you to listen to that raucous guitar. It is after all good and loud. But if you just listen to that guitar, then you might miss out on the primitive drums that sound like they are being pounded into submission. Or the vocals that sound like vintage late 70s punk. And the thing is that you can pick any song on the album and that description fits. “Hardcore” is an interesting song. This works a pretty serious groove in the lower registers of sound. This song feels like it would fit right into the repertoire of a Small Stone Recordings arist. If you’re a fan of punk (not that mass-produced pop-punk stuff), this just might be your new favorite band.

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Undecided Future (Orange County, California) www.reverbnation.com/uf123 Teenagers in Orange County playing ska are not unique. Since this is the land of No Doubt, ska bands are a dime a dozen. What is rare is the group of teenagers who play ska really well. The members of Undecided Future may be young, but they make really good tunes. They’re too young to be jaded musicians, and that really comes through in the sunny uptempo sound. Sure, the themes definitely belie the youth of these guys, but one of the first rules of writing is to write what you know. If you know the Orange County scene at all, you know it’s filled with musicians that have the latest gear and count on that gear to make them sound better. Undecided Future skips all that and just plays good music that sounds good and gets people moving.

He’s My Brother, She’s My Sister (Los Angeles) www.hesmybrothershesmysister.com You don’t get the full story of this band unless you see it perform live. Sure you can hear the slide guitar, the upright bass, the vocals, and the drums. What more is there, you ask. Well, the drummer doesn’t just stand while she plays. She stands on a drum. And she doesn’t just stand on the drum. She tapdances on it. Yes, that’s right. She tapdances on a drum while playing her drum kit. Now, it’s not easy to compare this band to anyone. If you took the sort of artsy sound of Murder By Death and mixed it with the rock of Drive-By Truckers, you’re at least getting somewhere as far as a comparison. Then throw in a little old-time jazz (particular in the vocals that sound a bit like Katharine Whalen) and a little psychedelia...well, you get the idea of why it’s hard to compare this band to any other band. Check out this band’s songs on Bandcamp, and if you get the chance, go for the full experience of a live show.

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album reviews

Star & Dagger Tomorrowland Blues

Turchi My Time Ain’t Now

What would your reaction be if I told you that Sean Yseult (formerly of White Zombie) has a new album out? Well, if you’re thinking that it’s the same thing she did in White Zombie, you’re mistaken. Don’t get me wrong. This album rocks for sure. It is best played at loud levels and it will get your fist pumping. However, the sound is closer to something on the Small Stone Recordings roster than anything White Zombie ever recorded. This is some fuzzy groove rock. Seriously. Just listen to the slow-burning “Selling My Things.” The guitar is super-fuzzy, the bass is enough to rumble something deep in your gut, and the vocals at times bring Janis Joplin to mind. Oh, and about those vocals: they are seriously soulful. I don’t think it’s out of order to say that Von Hesseling’s vocals are about as soulful as Rachel Nagy of Detroit Cobras. Yeah, just imagine that. Soulful vocals with fuzzy guitar and rumbling rhythms. What’s not to like?

Turchi is an artist I found in 2012 and this is now the third of his albums in my collection. Yes, he’s that good...not to mention prolific. This five-song EP begins with “Mind’s Eye.” This song is a little psychedelic, a little rock and roll, and a little blues in the vein of Hill Country Revue. That song is followed by the easy groove of “Feels Like Home.” I’ll tell you one thing. It’s easy to imagine someone playing this song at home - specifically on the front porch with a jar of moonshine between his feet. Easy grooves seem to be the order of this EP. Not that I’m complaining. This is great music for unwinding from a long day at work while sipping on some whiskey. If you like blues (especially slide guitar) and southern rock, get this EP - available now on Bandcamp and vinyl.

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Pat Todd and the Rankoutsiders Rankoutsider Records (2013) (photo courtesy of Tom Varden)

If you were to play Pat Todd and the Rankoutsiders for someone and ask that person to guess where the band is from, Los Angeles might not be the first guess. I know it wouldn’t be my first guess if I didn’t know any better. Why? Because this band plays a gritty roots rock that I would expect from a band that lives in middle America. From Pat Todd’s gritty vocals that sound a bit like John Hiatt to the raw and raucous instrumentation, this just doesn’t seem like an L.A. band. And that’s a good thing. A lot of folks would probably call this altcountry. I am not one of them because ultimately this is a rock n roll band. There is no better example of this than the title track. Sure, it has a little twang and grit, but this is just a workingclass rock n roll song that will get you clapping and singing along. And then as if to bolster the argument I’ve just made, the title track is followed by “Small Town Rock Ain’t Dead.” If this isn’t a rock n roll tune, I don’t know what is. If you’re a fan of artists like John Hiatt or Two Cow Garage, this album will fit right into your collection. Oh, and follow the instructions on the liner notes and “Play this recording loud.”

Hickoids Hairy Chafin’ Ape Suit (Saustex Media, 2013) I don’t know what it is about cowpunk, but I always seem to find a spot for well-done cowpunk. It’s probably a combination of the rock, the twang, and the trashy themes (check out “Side by Side Doublewides”) pervasive in cowpunk music. Plus, it seems like most bands in this genre have a pretty good sense of humor. I was hooked on this album from “TJ.” This twangy tune begins with the line, “As you go to Tijuana, don’t you smoke no marijuana. It might be laced with heroin or PCP.” The song goes on to catalog verious episodes in Mexico. AS if that weren’t good enough, about halfway through the song, the melody changes from classic sad country to raucous twangy punk. Not all of the tunes on here are uptempo. “You Knee’d Me” is one of those songs that gets couples strolling slowly around the honky tonk. But even in this song, the guitar has a distinct punk sound to it. If you’re a fan of cowpunk (particularly The Earps and Supersuckers circa Must’ve Been High), you won’t be disappointed by this album.

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The Guest List:

Top 5 Movie Monologues with Rock and Roll intentions or Everything I ever needed to know in life, I learned from Rock and Roll

by Lizard McGee You go to the theater and sit in the dark. A projector pushes light through film and out onto the screen. You open your mind to the power of imagination and pretense momentarily suspending all disbelief. Actors expound on delicate dramatic details. You are washed with an intense certainty that they are speaking directly to you. As if a folded horn grows directly from their heart, out through the screen ending at your face, amplifying and translating the deepest meanings of their words. Whatever they are talking about, they’re really talking about rock and roll. Everything I ever needed to know in life I learned from rock and roll. Rock and roll is the beginning and the end of Lizard McGee (above) the world. It’s everything. Remember in Apocalypse Now when Marlon Brando says that he Photo courtesy of Lizard McGee. “has seen horrors”? Rock and roll has seen those holding a dove in one hand while talking about horrors. Or Citizen Kane’s “Rosebud”. Rock and death. roll has a Rosebud. But those are films. I’m talking about movies. Consider this a master class in Rock and Roll.

2. Don’t Ever Get Married (Purple Rain) – Clarence Williams III

1. Tears in Rain (Blade Runner) - Rutger Hauer

Prince’s dad beat his ass, just beat his Mom’s ass and is now sitting at a piano in the basement crying while playing a beautiful melody that Prince later turns into Purple Rain. His dad grills the Kid about whether or not he has a girlfriend and what their future plans are.

Rock and roll should always go for the jugular. The emotional response. You want the audience ripping off their panties and throwing them at the stage with mindless abandon. Even if your audience includes that ripped, sweaty, fantastically mustachioed grip who winks at you during scene breaks. No matter what, you want them all to be lost in the moment. Legend has it that the film crew was brought to tears and erupted into spontaneous applause after Mr. Hauer delivered this impromptu soliloquy. He ditched the script and went with his gut, abbreviating and adjusting what the director and screen-writer had given him. His gutsy move reminds us that great performance is also about spontaneity. Plus nothing says rock and roll more than having platinum blond hair and incognitomusicmagazine.com

“I never meant to cause you any sorrow/I never meant to cause you any pain.” Indeed. Q: What do we learn from this growling monologue? A: Rock and roll is wrong. You should do it in a basement. You might get your ass kicked. And most importantly, making plans for the future is a bad idea because that bitch will just break your heart. 3. I’m A Wolf (Moonstruck) – Nicolas Cage

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cares what the club owner or the sound man Ronny and Loretta have fire. Ronny has fallen says. They may throw up the house lights and crazy in love with Loretta. He wants her to come try to kill your vibe, or pull the plug on your guiupstairs with him and get in his bed. But Loretta tar amp and try to shut you down. But God gave is fighting against her heart. Loretta is trying to you a voice and made you a human amplifier. be reasonable, she’s trying to make “good de- And he did that so you can say “I think we’ve cisions”. What does this scene tell us about the got time for one more.” You cannot be stopped. dogma of rock and roll? It tells us that playing it safe is a loser’s game. The past and the future “You must constantly exceed your level. There are a joke. Nothing matters but right now. Why? are no limits. There are plateaus, but you must Because fucking. Because recklessness. Because not stay there, you must go beyond them. If it it doesn’t matter how and it doesn’t matter why. kills you, it kills you.” – Bruce Lee Love breaks your heart, love ruins everything, love is a mess. And when your on fire, every- Rock and roll always says, “Bring it on.” Because thing seems like nothing against “I want you in rock and roll is all about stepping up your game. my bed.” Editor’s note: If you are a musician and you have Nick Cage speaks for rock and roll. And rock and an idea you think would be great for an upcoming edition of The Guest List, send us a message roll says - Don’t play it safe. Listen to the Wolf. at incognitomusicmag@gmail.com. 4. Help me Obi Wan Kenobi, you’re my only hope (Star Wars) – Carrie Fisher Editing is rock and roll’s masterstroke. You must have impact. And it’s all in that last line. That one sentence has so much power. The wanting in her voice. Because everything depends upon this. This is a call. This is the power ballad. This is top notch rock and roll. Because it’s a fucking hologram, so cool. Also, Carrie Fisher is fine. Because metal bikini. And because it’s fucking STAR WARS and I still want a Landspeeder. 5. Bruce Lee Kicks Everyone’s Ass (Enter The Dragon) – Bruce Lee It doesn’t matter that this isn’t a monologue. Rock and Roll is about breaking the rules. When Bruce Lee fights, he makes the coolest fucking sounds EVER. Specifically the moment in the scene in the underground drug lair when he fights off 7 henchmen and then after he beats the last guy’s ass, he stomps on his chest, grimaces, makes an alien-cat noise and prowls away to a soundtrack of spooky synthesizers. Bruce Lee is a BAD ASS, people. He then goes on to gloriously beat the shit out of another 47 dudes (I counted). That is seriously rock and roll. Because nunchucks. Because you can do anything. Even against insurmountable odds. Especially against insurmountable odds. Rock and roll feeds on the glory of the underdog. And because it doesn’t matter if you’ve reached the end of the set. Who 27

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The Flashback Lucky Dube Slave (1989)

This is an album that a friend of mine passed along to me. Before this, I had only heard the name Lucky Dube, but didn’t know any of his music. Well, I know now that I had been missing out. This album begins with the title track. It’s pretty heavy to sing “I’m a slave,” but the song doesn’t really feel heavy at all. It’s a mellow tune with a lot of soul. The background vocals are about as sweet as you’ll find. And they’re like that through the entire album. And if you’re looking for something that feels like old-time soul, check out the soulful scream in “I’ve Got You Babe.” It brings to mind classic soul singers like Marvin Gaye and Al Green. Another thing you’ll notice throughout the entire album is the bass. It provides a steady groove from beginning to end and is perfect for getting you in a mellow mood. And isn’t that what reggae is all about? Getting in a mellow mood? After all, there is a time and place for music that makes you want to pump your fist. And there is a time and place for music that helps you relax and take it easy. If you’re in the mood for the latter, check out this album. It just might help you forget about the terrible day you had at work. This is just one of 22 albums Lucky recorded before he was killed by carjackers in his native South Africa, and it might inspire you to seek out more of his music. incognitomusicmagazine.com

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Cinephile

Movie Reviews

By Rachel “Rae” Park This month has, unfortunately, been a little slow for movies as far as my personal tastes go. I’ve actually been pretty busy too; it’s been a while since I’ve taken a look at my upcoming releases list, so as of this moment, I can’t really say for certain whether or not there’s anything to look forward to in the coming months. If my memory serves me correctly, however, I think that in general, fall is going to be pretty slow in terms of new releases, and that all the ones people are probably most likely going to be looking forward to are all coming up during the winter season. Anyway, here’s the usual three movie lineup for the month!

I openly admit that I was not too impressed with this film’s trailers. I only went to see it because a couple friends and I wanted to watch something, and it was either this or We’re the Millers. We chose this one because one of my friends had heard so many bad things about the other movie. Ironically though, I ended up liking We’re the Millers far better, but we’ll get to that story in a second. I was less than impressed by Elysium because it seemed to be more focused on giving some kind of political message more than focusing on telling a good story. The plot, in my opinion, was a bit of a mess and Foster’s character wasn’t as impressive as I thought it would be, though I don’t think it was the fault of the actor so much as the character was written so flatly.

Elysium

We’re the Millers

Starrring: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga, Diego Luna, Wagner Moura Runtime: 109 minutes

Featuring: Jennifer Aniston, Jason Sudeikis, Emma Roberts, Ed Helms, Kathryn Hahn Runtime: 110 minutes

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I happened to see this the very next day after having watched Elysium. This time, I went because a different friend wanted to watch a movie, and I had pretty much seen everything else. To put it simply, this movie was hilarious, and unexpectedly so. If you enjoyed the movie Bridesmaids and can appreciate that humor, then I think it’s pretty safe to say you’ll like this one as well. It’s not as well done, of course, and there’s maybe two or three parts that are extremely awkward, but it’s otherwise enjoyable.

The Ratings 5 Stars: A great movie that can be considered timeless or classic. (Equivalent to an A+) 4.5 Stars: Solid story, but may leave a few plot ends loose or there may be inconsistencies. (Equivalent to an A, A-) 4 Stars: Good story, but there’s clear room for improvement in some areas. (Equivalent to a B+, B) 3.5 Stars: A movie lacking in “wow” factor. (Equivalent to a B-) 3 Stars: Flat average viewing experience; not great, but not horrible either. (Equivalent to a C+) 2.5 Stars: A movie that passes the time; watch in theaters if you have an itch to see a movie. (Equivalent to a C)

Paranoia

2 Stars: More of a DVD rental type of movie. (Equivalent to a C-)

Starring: Liam Hemsworth, Gary Oldman, Harrison Ford, Amber Heard Runtime: 106 minutes

1.5 Stars: Very difficult to stay interested; at times seems to drag or go on too long. (Equivalent to a D+)

Apparently this is a book, but I haven’t read it. Honestly, I couldn’t help but think that I’ve seen at least a good chunk of this plot before, in another film, but I just can’t place my finger on it. I didn’t think it was a completely terrible movie, but it wasn’t really above average either. According to what I’ve heard, if you’re a fan of the book, the movie is going to disappoint you. As someone who only saw the movie, I think I can agree with that. I had the feeling while watching it that if I had read the book first, I probably would have liked the movie even less. Not a bad attempt though, for Liam’s first headlining gig.

1 Star: Very little perks; consider as a rainy day movie. (Equivalent to a D)

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1/2 Star: A very select few may enjoy this movie. (Equivalent to a D-) 0 Stars: Boring; great movie to catch your Z’s in–may have been a pain to finish or impossible to finish–possibly even a movie someone would walk out on. (Equivalent to an F) Ratings scale based on, but differs slightly from cuttingedgecreativity.wordpress.com. Visit CEC for more extensive reviews of each of these movies, including those not featured in Incognito due to space limitations.

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Don’t Be That Guy Or... Hipster Go Home by Bobbo Byrnes

“...As far as I know, that list doesn’t exist.” “Yeah, I don’t have to be first or second, I’d be happy with sixth.” “Uh, ok I guess.” <with confused look> “So you guys are touring around?” “Yeah, this is our first time here in <city name here> and we are having a great time.” “Are these your CDs?” “<dumbfounded look> Yes.” “I’d like one.” “Oh, OK. Yeah, they are ten bucks.” “Ten bucks? Any chance I can just have one?” “Not really, we’re touring and this is our gas money.”

Bobbo Byrnes is the singer and guitarist of The Fallen Stars (www.thefallenstars.com) from Orange County, California. He was kind enough to take on Don’t Be That guy this month, and we think he really captured the essence of it. By the way, his band is really good and you should get his music. Just don’t tell him if you download the album instead of paying for it. Oh, and if you like the show Firefly, he has a side project called Leaves on the Wind that will soon release a concept album based on Firefly. Without further ado, allow me to introduce Bobbo’s take on our recurring column. Your band is taking a break at the “cool” bar in the city. The guy that’s been hanging out by the bar not clapping comes up to you. His mustache is neatly trimmed, his hair is perfectly disheveled. “Hey man, I really dig your band.” “Thanks!” “Is the bass player taken? She’s hot.” “Um, yeah. She is my wife.” “Oh, man. Do you think I could be on the list?” “Uh, what list?” “The list of guys to marry her after you’re dead.” 31

“Oh...that’s OK. I can just rip it at home off the web.” <another dumbfounded look> “I have a way, I don’t have to buy any music anymore.” <in sarcastic tone> “Great.” “So where are you guys staying?” he asks. “My place isn’t very big but if you and your wife want to crash at my place, that’s totally cool.” You just told me you wanted to marry my wife after I’m dead. I say to myself. “No, we’ve got a place, but thanks.” I say aloud. “If you ever need a place, let me know. And, by the way, I was wondering; you guys get a deal at the bar right? Any chance you can get me a beer?” “I’ll see what I can do,” I lie. I’m not getting him a free beer after he told me he wants my wife and is going to illegally download my album off the web. I really don’t care that he’s downloading the album, I can’t stop it but dammit, don’t tell me! You know him. He’s the hipster who pals up to the band because he wants his music and booze for free. Don’t be that guy.

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ASK UNCLE SAL

my yard. Every tiem I see all them acrons in my yard, I cain’t help but wondre if ya can maek moonshine from them. I gotta numebr 3 washtub and a whole mess of acrons ready to go wehn I hear from ya. Washtub Wlilie

Hey Uncle Sal, I was pinchin’ a loaf off in the restroom at one of my classroom buildings when I saw “JEEBUS SAVES” written in big black Sharpie on the wall of the stall. Who’s this Jeebus? And what does he save? Old newspapers? Empty bottles? Does this mean I can just take my recyclables to him? Help me out here. Befuddled in Beaverton Hey there Befuddled. I didn’t really need to know about ya pinchin’ a loaf, but I can see where ya might be confused. But before I get to answerin’ yer question, lemme ask ya this: What do ya do with your recyclables now? I mean, if yer ready to take yer recyclables to him after readin’ about him in a bathroom stall, just what are ya doin’ with ‘em now? Throwin’ ‘em out onto the lawn of yer frat house? And let’s just say that Jeebus does save old bottles and newspapers. Was there an address on the stall wall? Prolly not. Then just how do ya expect to take yer recyclables to him? Don’t make a lot of sense, does it? Anywho, on to yer question. I’m an avid hockey fan, and I happen to know that Jeebus is the goalie of the minor league hockey team near you. He’s pretty good from what I hear. So good that I hear people is makin’ small shrines to him in their office and home. He’s as good as people say, he ain’t gonna be in the minors long, so check him out when ya can.

Willie - I’m just gonna assume that your name is actually Willie, not Wlilie - that sure is one heckuva question. From yer spelling, I assume that you’ve already started makin’ and drinkin’ some acorn moonshine and yer just tryin’ to use me to tell ya it’s OK. Prolly because yer wife is gettin’ on ya for drinking sump’n whose effects may include makin’ ya grow a third eye. Now, I gotta tell ya that I know hooch can be made from just about anything. Not that I ever tried to do sump’n like that myself, but the urge to get a buzz has been around since the first caveman discovered what happened when he ate some fermented horseradish root. (That sure would clear the nasal passages.) Let’s just assume that ya can in fact make moonshine from acorns. Is that really sump’n ya wanna drink just so ya don’t have to pay for a bottle of sump’n at the store? I know one thing for sure, if I went to yer hovel (provided it hasn’t been blown up in some horrible still explosion), I’m gonna take a pass on the acorn ‘shine...no matter how good a buzz ya say it gives. But I’m sure the squirrels nearby would appreciate a little nip.

Gotta question for Uncle Sal? Send it to: askunclesal@gmail.com and you may see it published in an upcoming edition of the magazine!

Dear Uncle Sal, Dear Ucnle Sal, I got this big oak tree in the coerner of incognitomusicmagazine.com

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

In Our Next Issue... It’s not red, but blue October when we bring you interviews with Ten Foot Polecat (photo by Peter Lee) and Christian D and The Hangovers.

Plus: •Our model Heather gets into costume to remind you why Halloween is such a great holiday •Reviews of beers at another southern California restaurant •Carin gives you an excellent cocktail to serve at your Halloween party •Reviews of movies by our CinePhile Rae •Leigh Marino of SWIG provides The Guest List AND MORE!

! r e b o t c O n i s u s s i m t ' n Do

Incognito Music, Models, and More (September 2013)

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INCOGNITO Irie Formation

music, models, and more Vol. 15, September 2013