Issue #24

ISSUE 24

HIGHLIGHT

MAGAZINE

SLEEP ON IT – DARLING PARADE – RED PAINTINGS – THE ORPHAN THE POET & MORE

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co-founder – editor-in-chief ashley osborn

IGHLIGH

co-founder – art director cara bahniuk managing editor jenn stookey content director anjel lopez copy editor courtney dondelinger co-founder mckenzie hughes contributing photographers

cara bahniuk, matt burke, dan deslover, brendon donahue, courtney dondelinger, tarina doolittle, jordan fischels, brad heaton, megan, leetz, anjel lopez, nicole mago, charlie martel, david mullis, laura, murray, ally newbold, ashley osborn, heather phillips, petey place, danny raybon, sam roenfeldt, sam san roman, daniel shippey, jared thomas and amy willard

contributing writers (online & publication)

ryan argast, christina belles, haley black, jennifer boylen, colleen casey, madison convey, rebecca del castillo, trevor figge, perry fish, jordan fitzsimmons, zach murman-freer, tamara fuentes, will howard, logan kant, jessica klinner, catt kruger, daisy marietta, theresa pham, karlin reed, ryan bahniuk, annette schaefer, alyssa schmidt, steven smith, morgan waldorf and abby welsh

digital marketing team

olivia adams, geoff burns, rachel carter, sierra eldridge, aaron hinckley, megan shea and catie suliga

news posters

jordyn lockwood and megan shea

_________________________ www.highlightmagazine.net

facebook facebook.com/highlightmagazine twitter @highlightzine instagram @highlightzine _________________________ thank you

press here publicity, the orphan the poet, sleep on it, ryan feldman, co5 media, side one dummy, hope for the day, jonny boucher, mike cubillos, alaina bendi and our amazing readers & staff!

_________________________ 06 jake miller jordan fischels

07 wade martin provided

the red paintings provided

the orphan, the poet jon medina

sleep on it ashley osborn

hope for the day provided

darling parade provided

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february 05 this or that

08 clothing highlight 09 non-profit highlight 10 label highlight 11 venue highlight 12 highlighted artists 13 wade martin 15 film highlight 16 sleep on it 20 darling parade 22 the red paintings 24 the orphan, the poet 28 jake miller 36 tour round up dale earnhardt jr. jr. ms mr 40 reviews

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SUMMER

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YM P I 43%

57%

IVIL WARS C E TH 44%

MUMFORD & SO 56% NS

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JAKE MILLER - 28

THE RED PAINTINGS - 22

SLEEP ON IT - 16

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DARLING PARADE - 20

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24 - THE ORPHAN, THE POET

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36 - LIVE PHOTOS

NAME: Jonny Boucher LOCATION: Chicago, IL TITLE: Founder WEBSITE: hftd.org

WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL STORY? WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?

When I was 13 or so, I became local concert promoter and was booking shows at houses, vfw halls and basically anywhere I could. When I wasn’t booking, I was going to shows. My parents always wanted me to be who I was and that worked out because all I wanted to do was go to shows and be involved with music.

Coming from a huge high school, I never was settled with one crowd or click, and I found myself more comfortable amongst the Chicago hardcore and punk rock scene. Knowing that there was a culture out there that I blended well with, gave me the strength to make it through high school. Seriously, I signed a contract with my school and my parents that I could go to at least 2 shows a week if I maintained good grades. True Story.

Since then I have played in bands, managed bands and toured all over the place.

WHY/WHEN DID YOU START HOPE FOR THE DAY?

In 2010, I was in Mexico on a trip with my father when I found out that my boss had committed suicide. He had jumped off his 5th floor penthouse in Chicago and it left me lost. When I returned from the trip, I attended his funeral and in the same week, I ended up losing a friend to cancer. As I tried to understand all that was going on, I realized life was short and I wanted to make sure that every day I could somehow help others know that life is worth living.

Music and times, so I thought why not use those outlets to inspire those hurting. After figuring out how to start a nonprofit, I raised some money, paid some fees and launched Hope for the Day in November 2011.

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WHAT ARE THREE OF YOUR MOST MEMORABLE CAREER MOMENTS?

My career in mental health and suicide prevention has been short but I am grateful our work has touched many thus far. One of the most memorable moments is shooting the first Music Saved My Life segment with The Gaslight Anthem at Riot Fest 2012. I never had met the band before and the first thing we talked about was our personal struggles. It is amazing how you can find solidarity through other peoples stories, even if you have never met them before.

Another moment is when I was approached after a HFTD event at a college by a girl who I never met but she was crying as she approached our merch table. As I asked if everything was ok, she nodded and said “thank you, you saved my friends life”. As amazing as that sounded, I asked her how I could of done that?

She mentioned that her friend met me at a concert and she said that the short conversation we had stopped her from going home and killing herself. I couldn’t really remember who her friend was but to know that I took 5 minutes out of my day to talk to a stranger and it changed them, is pretty cool.

Every day is a great moment in the growth of HFTD, knowing that people are inspired by our work is something money cannot buy and I hope everyone knows that each day is a new opportunity.

WHATS COMING UP FOR HFTD?

We have so much going on this year and we cannot wait to share it all with everyone. We do not believe in borders, limits nor giving up. This year, we continue pushing forward, launching our LGBTQ and veteran projects as well as expanding into the UK, Europe and Australia! We call it, international hope.

CATCH ONTO THESE TRENDS COMPANY: Hope For The Day OWNER/DESIGNER: Jonny Boucher LOCATION: Chicago, IL WEBSITE: hftd.org

WHERE DO YOU GRAB INSPIRATION FOR MERCH?

Clothing is the first way we express ourselves as individuals. After wearing band shirts for years, I decided that I wanted to wear clothing that had a good message. Each piece of clothing we produce is made to inspire those wearing the clothes as well as start conversations with those who are not.

WHAT ARE YOUR THREE FAVORITE PIECES?

1) LOVE LIFE shirt - The first shirt we produced and it is our slogan for every day, love life.

2) BLANK GIVES ME HOPE shirt - It is rad that we allow people to really make the shirt their own but the stories that come from the shirts are amazing.

3) HAVE HOPE beanies - keeps you warm and on the right path, life is hard but we need to keep reminding our selves that we need to keep pushing forward and have hope.

t@HopeForTheDay f/HopeForTheDay HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET - 9

YOU MAY WANT TO LISTEN TO...

A unique label founded by (and still run by) two musicians, Joe Sib from Wax, and Bill Armstrong from Green Thumb, Side One Dummy came about in a very interesting and influenced fashion. Having worked with so many interesting and talented musicians over the years, they’ve certainly made a name for themselves. To this day, they still have some incredible bands on their label, like the 3 we’ve featured below this month! Check them out.

CHUCK RAGAN - An incredibly well-versed musician who

has traveled the world playing his tunes and sharing the stage with many a talented artist. After having been in successful bands for so long, it’s easy to see his passion and talents through his solo music.

With incredible song writing skills and a naturally strong voice, fans will certainly be running out to the record store (or rushing onto iTunes, since it’s 2014 and all) to buy the upcoming album, Till Midnight - out later this month.

Listen to: “Nothing Left To Prove”

DRESSES - Imagine one of the cutest couples you know. No,

not the really annoying type, but the type that actually makes you believe in love. Now imagine that couple making beautiful music.

Well, you’ve just pictured Dresses. The indie-pop duo have been a band for merely two years, and just released their debut album Sun Shy back in October 2013. And their single “Blew My Mind” is actually the first song they wrote together - with beautiful lyrics and melodies, it’s certainly a good taste of what the band is all about.

Listen To: “Blew My Mind”

PUP -

If you’re very involved in the music scene, you’ll know that in most places, punk rock is dying out. And if it’s not dead, it’s a joke.

Pup is changing things up, emerging from Canada with a sound punk rock fans have been craving for years. They’ve recorded most of their music live, achieving a totally raw theme. They set themselves apart with their energy, and their reputation for an insane live set.

Listen to: “GHOSTS, KINETIC”

WORDS: Daisy Marietta 10 - HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET

VENUE HIGHLIGHT SIREN RECORDS - DOYLESTOWN, PA

HISTORY:

WHY PLAY HERE?

Siren Records opened as a record store in 1988 and started doing shows soon after in 1990. Siren is a huge part of Doylestown and the surrounding area and has supported it by hosting community run performances since the ‘90s. Booking agents Blair Elliot, Joe Montone and Jason Hricko have booked bands like Title Fight, Koji and Vinnie Caruana at Siren as well as supported bands like Balance and Composure, Daylight and Anthony Green early in their careers and onward. It’s safe to say that between being a record store and a great venue, they have been more than successful throughout the more than two decades that they’ve been in business.

Siren Records is a highly respected and loved venue not just in Doylestown, but also around the country. It’s one of those venues where you really feel like you’re a part of the music – like you’re apart of something bigger than yourself. It’s about a scene and a community coming together and supporting each other. Play here if you want a show experience like no other. Play here if you want to meet some incredible people and make new friends. Play here if you want to feel like you’re at home.

TWITTER: @sirenrecords FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/SirenRecordsDoylestown WEBSITE: sirenrecords.com FEBRUARY 7TH

MARCH 20TH

Chronic Wolf

From Indian Lakes

REVIEW: Tamara Fuentes

MARCH

MARCH

Spring Hardcore Series

Jazz Festival

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HIGHLIGHTED

ARTISTS ALY JADOS

Location: Chicago, IL Current Single: “Consuming” It’s hard to find female rock vocalists in today’s scene, but Aly Jados is among the few. Her determination and edge set her apart from the rest. Jados is a Chicago, IL artist looking to make some big upcoming moves.

Recently, fans were able to show support by backing a successful Kickstarter campaign for a new album. Check out her current single, “Consuming,” while you wait for the new record.

HANDS Location: Los Angeles, CA Current Single: “Videolove” Members: Geoffrey Halliday – Vox/Keys/Synths, Ryan Sweeney – Guitar/Backing Vox, Lukas Frank – Drums, Alex Staniloff - Bass If you are into dancing, I suggest a solid dose of Hands.

The Los Angeles, CA indie rock group got started in 2012 and they have already made a noticeable mark on the ever growing scene. We promise you will be hooked after listening to their current single, so be sure to also check out their latest full-length record, Synesthesia.

OTENKI Location: Houston, TV Current Single: “GHOSTS, KINETIC” Members: German Alexander – Vocals, Fausto Padilla – Lead Guitar/Vocals, Enoma Asowata – Guitar, “Sneaky” Josh Tenorio – Bass If you’re looking for a band that carries high energy and passion, give Otenki a listen. The Texans (Houston) are interested in touring the world and making as many friends and fans as they can. They want people to listen to their music because they are a bunch of guys who love rock n roll, plain and simple, and they wouldn’t have made it this far because of sticking together through it all and working hard.

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NAME: Wade Martin LOCATION: Las Vegas, NV WEBSITE: wademartinstudios.com

WHAT IS YOUR STORY?

Born in England, retired singer full time producer. I founded JWMS Enterprises (the umbrella corporation for JWM Records & WM Studios).

I co-own IME Records with DMC (of Run DMC) and Matthew Earl Jones and former business partners with Amar’e Stoudemire and Hypocalypto Records. I design my own recording studios. At this point I’ve built eight and currently have one in Phoenix (ranked number seven in the world) and Las Vegas. I’m currently in the process of building another one on the strip here in Vegas. I have been fortunate to have worked with artists/bands like Katy Cappella, DMX, Nas, R-Kelly, Britney Spears and Rolling Stones. I play and record most of the instruments in my work and I have also guested judged on FOX’s American Idol and X-Factor.

WHY DO YOU LOVE PRODUCING?

I wrote my first song when I was eight and I started exploring arranging instruments around my songs by age ten. I suppose you could say I was built to produce music before I really cared about what I was going to do when I got older.

IS THERE ANY STYLE OF MUSIC YOU HAVEN’T TACKLED THAT YOU WANT TO GET INTO?

I haven’t done any non mainstream music, like Jazz for example, and I haven’t really been interested, to be honest. I’ve been lucky enough to have been able to work in the genre’s that interest me.

WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE TO BUILD A STUDIO IN LAS VEGAS?

It’s the entertainment capital and everyone comes here so I think the real question is why haven’t I done this sooner, lol!

WHAT ARE THREE OF YOUR MOST MEMORABLE CAREER MOMENTS?

First one was when I first broke the US top 40 charts as a singer/writer. I felt like I hit a major mile stone in my career. Second would be when I discovered Katy Cappella. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to find such talent that hadn’t been discovered already! Third was when my Phoenix studio was recognized as the seventh best studio in the world.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH?

Yes, I want to work with a Beatle before they die off, lol! I still use the Beatles song writing as a yard stick for my own, so I would LOVE the opportunity to experience working with that source of inspiration directly.

TWITTER: @WadeMartinSP INSTAGRAM: WadeMartinSP FACEBOOK: facebook.com/WadeMartinProducer HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET - 13

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HIGHLIGHTED

FILMS

THE OSCAR RACE GAME

In its 86-year history the Oscars have awarded over 300 actors and actresses for their undeniable talents, ability to transform before our eyes, and the capability to move audiences all over the world. Surprisingly only 14 of those 300 have been black nominees- four for best actor, four for best supporting actor and six for best supporting actress. Even more shocking is that in all of Oscar history only one black actress, Halle Berry (2001’s Monster’s Ball) has actually won the best actress award as the Oscars exit its 86th year. In 2012 Viola Davis came very close to becoming the second black actress for her role in The Help, but lost to Meryl Streep up for her 17th Oscar nomination. Artists behind the camera show even less progression considering there has never been a black winner for cinematography, editing, and only one winner for screenwriting ever (2009 Precious). Though the number of black artists to receive an Oscar is incredibly sparse, there have been small signs the Academy is broadening its perspective. Of those 14 winners, eight have collected their Oscars in the past 13 years. Yet fighting for the coveted title of “Best Picture” has proven to be just as hard, out of 120 films that have received this nomination in the past 20 years, only 18 centered on black protagonists or major characters.

2013 was a pivotal year in this movement with the release of over 15 films centering on strong black casts. Groundbreaking films like The Butler and Fruitvale Station (neither received Oscar nominations) brought harsh issues to light drawing in audiences of all races while gaining critics’ approval worldwide. Yet none brought more attention to this issue than Steve McQueen’s 12 Years A Slave. After captivating audiences with the brutally honest story of Solomon Northup, a free black man abducted and sold back into slavery, 12 Years a Slave has collected a handful of awards this season including nine Oscar nominations but most importantly shook up the film industry. Holding back nothing, this film gave the world an unfiltered, haunting, and intense view at one of the darkest times of our history. Though many condemned 12 Years A Slave for being too violent, this film resonated with audiences for mimicking a part of the past often ignored, sharing the story of triumph over merciless and unjust struggle.

Are films like 12 Years A Slave foreshadowing a greater change in acceptance within this industry? Or are these films just the exception to the unwritten rule? Although impressive strides have been made, we still have much further to go until the film industry sees complete equality across the board. This is not only found in the films nominated each year but also in the voters themselves. According to a 2012 study by the Los Angeles Times, the demographic breakdown of the Oscar (AMPAS) voters proved to greatly contradict societal representation. Of the 51,000 active Oscar voters- 94% are Caucasian, 77% are male, and 54% are over the age of 60. With a skewed perspective making all the decisions, each sector of the industry is overtly misrepresented.

Considering it’s 2014, this biased viewpoint should be kept in the past and hopefully the impressive black films this year were enough to stir up the conversation towards greater diversity within the industry. With any luck this ripple effect will create some serious waves.

REVIEW: Rachel Carter

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HOME: Chicago, IL NOW JAMMING: Cope CURRENTLY: Releasing a new EP “Everything, All At Once”

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PHOTOS: Josh Wordel INTERVIEW & STORY: Perry Fish

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THE GREAT THING ABOUT

bands, like most groups of individuals, is that they’re all different, with their own thoughts and driving influences. However, you’ll see how much these guys think alike and have in common through their answers and their story.

With that, we wasted no time diving right in with Sleep On It. The five-piece band consists of: John Cass (vocals), TJ Horansky (guitar/vocals), Jake Marquis (guitar/vocals), AJ Khah (bass), and Luka Fischman (drums.) Given that not everyone has heard of them, we wanted them to explain the type of music they make for someone who has never tuned in. Cass usually tells new fans that they’re an “alternative rock band drawing influences from punk, hardcore, and rock. A range of influences can be heard in the music creating a unique sound.” While Horansky said he thinks it’s a unique blend of pop-punk sensibilities with the range of post-hardcore and the passion of emo, a la Brand New and Thrice.

The band attempts to incorporate catchy, anthemlike melodies with the focus being on the substance and songwriting. And as Khah pointed out, it’s real - not made from a computer. For those who like even more comparisons to similar sounding bands, Horansky added, “Think The Wonder Years meets Balance and Composure meets Yellowcard.” Marquis adds Saves the Day and Fall Out Boy to the list of bands that have had a huge impact on them. But really, you’ll have to listen for yourself!

Sleep On It is about to release a new EP, “Everything All At Once” on February 11th. Their recording process was definitely an interesting learning experience for them. Khah had the most to say about it, saying that it was actually one of the most difficult processes he has been a part of.

Unfortunately, they didn’t feel they had the most professional experience while in the studio. On the first day of recording, AJ put in six hours of work to finish all of his bass work, and while he was nervous, the engineer and entire band mates gave him their full approval. The next morning, the engineer told them none of AJ’s work was usable making him question his ability as a musician and putting a strain on the little time they had left.

It was later on in the process when the band started to think that they were intentionally holding the project up to get more money from them, which wouldn’t be the first time a recording studio did that. At that moment, they decided to switch producers and go with their first choice, Paul Leavitt (All Time Low, The Dangerous Summer), to finish mastering and recording the CD. Paul was amazing to work with and made an EP that didn’t sound professional in the recording process, sound like a major-label EP afterwards.

With the recent release of a track from the EP, “Bottom of the Ocean” in preparation of the full album debut, the band was happy to hear such positive reactions from listeners so far. Khah felt that it was received better than they expected, but it’s the “hardest” song (genre-wise) on the EP. They wanted to show the world how unique they are as musicians and they were lucky enough to have When the guys started the band, it was the natural that opportunity. People have been enjoying the product of five guys with similar, yet distinct styles. song’s energy and saying it sounds like “Chicago There was no specific moment where they felt music” which Cass thinks is a huge compliment, they needed to sound like one band or genre, but considering the bands that have come from simply trying to find the balance between paying Chicago. homage to their favorite bands while finding their own distinct sound. Cass noted that when Besides just wanting the EP to reach listener’s ears, they sit down to write, they’re not looking for a the band wants to see the country one venue, particular sound or genre, but since they all grew basement, and VFW Hall at a time. They want to up listening to punk and alternative music, it tends take it as far as they can, without compromising to be their focus. who they are or their friendships… living the dream!

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After the album comes out this month, they’ll have a CD release show in Chicago sometime in March.

Because they’re self-funding everything, they’re saving up to buy a tour van and start touring sometime later this year - most likely Midwest and East Coast runs.

Being a musician isn’t always easy, but there are definitely rewarding aspects about it. Hearing the final product after so much work has gone into writing the songs is at the top of the list; being able to play music with your friends is up there, too.

Horansky added that having someone tell him a lyric that they’ve written has had a profound impact on them as a person is incredibly rewarding. For Khah, being able to connect with people he’s never met has been one. He remembers being an outcast in high school and feeling like he was alone, but putting on headphones and hearing the stories of other people dealing with the same things he was - made him feel less alone. He hopes to have that effect on someone somewhere, too.

Since they’re a new band, most of the struggles they’ve been through so far haven’t been too painful. As Horansky said, he’s pretty certain

that the most difficult part lies ahead. Luckily for him, he doesn’t think it to be a bad thing.

He considers that it will force them to be better musicians and write better songs. The recording experience definitely threw them for a loop, but fortunately they were able to move on from that and stuck together through it. And of course, the “sacrifice” that musicians make to be in a band is real - so many people their age are starting their careers and making good money at “real jobs”, while they’re striving for something they’re truly passionate about. Having faith in your art and having fun is really the only thing that can get you through the struggle.

And as for the most positive part of it all, when do the guys think they’ll really feel like they’re living the dream? Besides the answer that all musicians desire - making money purely off their music and not needing another job, Horansky told us how he hopes to achieve the level of success to sustain their livelihood playing music and not once compromising who they are as musicians.

Of course, playing Warped Tour and having a headlining tour wouldn’t hurt either.

PHOTOS: Ashley Osborn INTERVIEW & STORY: Daisy Marrietta

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HOME: Nashville, TN NOW JAMMING: Ghost CURRENTLY: Touring in the U.S.

NASHVILLE IS A HOME TO A DIVERSE

music scene. While it is the country music epicenter of the world, it is also home to distinct alt-rock and punk scene. Darling Parade has been at the grind of making a name for themselves, not only in the Nashville scene, but also breaking out in the rest of the country.

“We live in Nashville, but we focus more on the big picture,” lead singer and guitarist Kristen Kearns said. “Until you get really big it’s easy to just disappear into the crowd of all the other bands here.”

Formed in 2007, Kearns, at the ripe age of 15 asked Nate McCoy (guitar) and his former band to play a show with her in Illinois. The crowd was thoroughly entertained by the performance, so Kearns and McCoy decided to see where they could take it. Casey Conrad (drums) and Dustin McCoy were later added.

Kearns recalls that the local scene in her Southern Illinois town was mostly a boys’ club, with only one other female fronted band playing at the time. However, it didn’t seem to hinder the band in any way.

“Female fronted bands usually have a stronger advantage,” Kearns said. “The younger you are in the industry, the better. The only disadvantage to being young would be the lack of experience.”

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Darling Parade eventually made the trek down to Nashville to take their chances there. In 2011 their third EP, Until We Say It’s Over, had hit the number eight spot on Billboard’s Next Big Sound Chart. The EP included a guest vocal by Anberlin’s Stephen Christian on “Remember.” The EP brought the band more exposure by landing them on their first major tour with NBC’s The Voice winner Cassadee Pope. Working with both Christian and Pope were both great experiences for the band.

“They were both really sweet people. Stephen writes so much, it made me want to write every day. Cassadee has worked so hard and has managed to say so humble. They both have,” Kearns noted.

After the tour, the band returned home to regroup. In order to fund their new album, Darling Parade opened a KickStarter to raise $16,000. They successfully funded the record, and then escaped into the backwoods of Kentucky to begin writing. The creative process the band went through was deeply influenced by their serene surroundings.

“People don’t realize how much their surroundings can either help or hurt the creative process,” Kearns said. “It’s just best to completely relax so that you can think clearly. I’ve found that I like to have a couple candles lit too.”

The band brought along their friend Jon King to assist in the

writing process. Kearns said that King’s influence was in his way with words.

“Jon has quite the vocabulary, I think he could read three books in a day if he had the time to,” Kearns said. “We both have the same taste in music too which is even better.”

The process bore songs that had an overall theme of overcoming struggle. The lyrics captured what the band called a snapshot in time of them coming to terms with some of their weakest moments.

While the things that they had to say were difficult, Kearns said that she was up for the challenge. “It can be hard to say what you are trying to say when you have to use your imagination rather than real emotion,” Kearns said.

While pursuing their dreams was fulfilling to the band, Kearns said that she still misses a lot at home and with her family that she could be a part of. “I see my family and friends when I can,” Kearns expressed. “It’s hard to miss major events in people’s lives, I even missed my nephew being born this year. The hardest part is realizing your schedule isn’t up to you anymore.”

The product of their strife became their first full-length album, Battle Scars and Broken Hearts. Their new and longtime fans met the release with great enthusiasm, helping them to become one of MTV’s “Artists to Watch.” Kearns said that title is one of the highlights of the band’s career so far.

“[The record] really spoke to our fans and they seem to love,” Kearns said. The band’s songs also began receiving playing time during hit TV shows such as The Lying Game and Shameless. The band was also selected to represent SuperCuts in the Rock The Cut ad in 2013. “It felt awesome to get those,” Kearns said. “Its always great when we feel like we are reaching more fans.”

Even with the rise and fall of the industry, although it was difficult at first, Darling Parade is happy that they quit their day jobs and took a chance on pursuing their dream. All of their success has brought them satisfaction, but they looking to make music their comfortable careers.

“When I am able to make a decent living at what I do, I’ll be happy,” Kearns said. “I don’t have to be rich; I just want to be able to buy a house someday with all of the hard work.”

PHOTOS: Provided INTERVIEW & STORY: Alyssa Schmidt

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HOME: Geelong/Brisband, Victoria NOW JAMMING: “Wasps” CURRENTLY: Touring the UK and Europe 22 - HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET

ART AND MUSIC ARE TWO OBVIOUSLY

powerful mediums, but rarely do people take the leap to combine to the two. That is not the case for Australian musician, Trash McSweeney. After suffering a violent seizure that resulted in him having synesthesia, he began seeing music as color and The Red Paintings was born. What began as simply a project while studying visual arts, The Red Paintings has become a career for McSweeney with the inclusion of countess other artists and musicians.

“I wanted to create music and a stage show that I wanted to personally feel and see. I write the music and summon up the stage show metaphors and sit with a creative team of many talents now who help turn my ideas into costuming, stage props and videos,” McSweeney explained. Although most of the musicians on board are from Australia, some have also contributed and played the songs from all over the world. “It’s not like a typical session musician set up, it’s about working with people who want to create with us,” he added.

The Red Paintings are known for having visually stimulating stage shows including costumes, art and theatrics. They have created an experience that is one of a kind; a lot of that coming from McSweeney’s tone-to-color synesthesia and his passion for the arts.

“When I write the music or develop the shows I always try to communicate what my head and my heart are seeing or feeling,” he said.

He continued that he has also had an affection towards mixing mediums especially when the goal is to create change and awareness about certain things. The Red Paintings not only combines art and visuals into their stage show, but they also help support local artists while doing by letting the locals curate the show. “As an artist myself I know how hard it is to be seen or be heard. I feel obligated to play my part in helping as many passionate and talented artists as I can,” McSeeney expressed.

That concept alone has become the highlight of his career as a musician.

“Watching people paint on stage at our shows. It means the world to me, seeing people express themselves to my music and stage shows,” he shared. Touring the world and being able to experience that each night is what makes it possible to for him to

live his dreams. After touring extensively in Australia, the UK and other parts of the world McSweeney decided to focus on the US. “I decided it was best to spend some time focusing on the US and it’s where I did much of the work on The Red Paintings debut album. After all that hard work, we now tour globally so I’ve had to get used to living in hotel rooms and tour vans!”

That debut album came out in 2004, but this year The Red Paintings have released their sophomore record, The Revolution is Never Coming. The record ended up becoming a five-year project, but all that hard work has definitely been worth it from McSweeney’s point of view.

“It was meant to take six months, but there were so many obstacles and hurdles to jump. I could never have predicted it would take so long, which in the end created a happy accident and a much more profound and thought process behind our album. As hard as it was, it couldn’t have been any other way,” he said.

It has definitely paid off. The Revolution Is Never Coming was a long time coming but has been received very well by fans and critics alike. “The reviews worldwide have been over the top amazing. I’m in awe about how people talk and write about this album. It’s becoming very special to many people and I’m grateful for that. It’s a nice feeling to finally let it go,” said McSweeney.

Not only did it takes years to finish off this record, it also took countless musicians including a 35 piece orchestra and a 22 person choir. “It was chaos at times but I’m glad so many people got the chance to lay their fingerprints on this album, including many of our fans who came in to play with the orchestra and lend their talents to the record.”

Currently, The Red Paintings are finishing up a US Tour and are set to head out on the road in the UK and Europe through the following months. If any of our readers over seas have a chance to catch their show and hear their new record, it will be an experience you’ll never forget. As for other plans, stayed tuned: “the wheels are in motion!”

PHOTOS: Provided INTERVIEW & STORY: Jennifer Boylen HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET - 23

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HOME: Dayton, OH NOW JAMMING: “Thieves Beneath the Bed” - Single CURRENTLY: Preparing for a show in Columbus, OH!

THROUGH SHARING THE STAGE

with industry greats including Dance Gavin Dance, I, the Mighty and A Lot Like Birds, Dayton, and OH rock band, The Orphan The Poet, is making waves and taking the music scene by storm, capturing the attention of fans across the board. “Our music, especially our newest material, is accessible to so many people, regardless of what genre-specific perspectives they may have, and it really opens the door to us playing to a wide variety of music fans.” shared The Orphan, The Poet vocalist, David Eselgroth.

Along with rounding out the bill on some outstanding tours, The Orphan, The Poet recently caught some attention playing alongside Conditions on some of their last tour dates. Eselgroth expressed his excitement, saying, “For me, it was an extra-fulfilling experience. I have been a huge fan of Conditions for a while now, so naturally I was ecstatic to get the chance to tour with them. When we heard it would be the last time they would be playing some of those cities, we were really honored to be sharing some of their last shows with them.” Eselgroth commented on all the opportunities, saying “Honestly, I think we’ve been extremely lucky in the bands we’ve gotten the opportunity to tour with. Every one of those tours has been an amazing opportunity for us to grow as people, musicians, and collectively as a band.”

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Also on the slate for these up and coming rockers? Their recent music video release for “Starlight,” a hard-hitting song with an impressive story. With positive lyrics including “I swear I’ll be there when you wake,” “Stay strong, believe it,” and “I swear this all will pass,” “Starlight” offers some hope for those who may be lacking it. “There is an inherent sadness in the song, which is not something I usually pander to, but I also think there is a silver lining of self-reliance there too.” Eselgroth shared, along with many more behind-the-song details, including how the song came to be. “’Starlight’ is a song that had a bit of a false start. I think it’s the only song I’ve personally ever completely rewritten. Something about my first attempt wasn’t sitting right, and I think I felt a personal duty to make the song better considering the topic,” a topic very real to many, and very personal to Eselgroth. “The song itself was inspired by a day I spent with a close friend of mine who had been battling depression over the past couple years. I had driven to the hospital to pick her up and as I stood in the waiting room, I remember feeling an overwhelming sense of outward helplessness.

I wanted to do so much for her, but realized that there are some demons that we can only fight internally-- demons that we have to fight ourselves. I knew the only thing I could do was assure her that I would be there and I believed in her, always.”

As for the music video for “Starlight,” the band took a different approach from their previous videos. “We knew we wanted to keep it really simple and straightforward. The video we released last fall for ‘Thieves Beneath The Bed’ was very story driven. So for ‘Starlight,’ it was almost a reactionary approach. We stripped everything down and shot us in our purest form – just a rock band being a rock band,” Eselgroth expressed. “We’ve always prided ourselves in being a very “hands on” band, so naturally we try to stay true to that in our videos. ‘Thieves Beneath The Bed’ was a much more complicated production and after that process, shooting ‘Starlight’ was definitely a walk in the park,” he laughed. “We instantly knew we wanted to work with our past director, Nathan William. We were very fortunate to have a massive warehouse adjacent to our practice space, so we simply brainstormed the staging and lighting we wanted and went to work. We ordered our building materials in on one day, constructed the stage and lighting the next afternoon, and Nathan showed up to shoot it that evening… I’m really proud of how ‘Starlight’ turned out because I think it shows our band in a very raw yet crisp form.”

Obviously a dedicated, hardworking, and talented band, we have faith that The Orphan, The Poet will go far, and Eselgroth shared their plans to, “We’re definitely a very driven band, and I’d be lying if I said we didn’t have our sights set on some lofty goals-- but what band doesn’t? For the immediate future, I can confidently say our focus is on continuing to write. You’ll definitely be hearing more new music from us in 2014. Aside from that, we just want to keep touring, meeting new bands and fans alike.”

As far as living the dream and what he hopes to achieve, he explained “I think there’s a danger of bands never thinking they’ve achieved enough. No matter how far you’ve come, you’re definition of ‘success’ has evolved just as quickly. We need to let ourselves be proud of what we’ve achieved, because although these achievements may seem small now, at one point, they were our highest dream. It’s not a moment, it’s a progression. It’s not how far you’ve gone; it’s how you keep on going. With that said, I know I’m living my dream right now.”

PHOTOS: Jon Medina INTERVIEW & STORY: Rebecca Del Castillo HIGHLIGHTMAGAZINE.NET - 27

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HOME: Weston, FL NOW JAMMING: Me and You (Acoustic) CURRENTLY: In the studio writing new music

HE REPEATS THE WORDS OF HIS SONGS

to himself while pacing around back stage. “I really had no idea what I was doing,” said Jake Miller, as he prepares himself for his very first live show in front of 5,000 people. He thinks to himself, “I can do this.” He grips his microphone tightly as he awaits his performance not knowing what to expect as soon as he steps on stage.

“I’m not going to lie, I had stage fright and was extremely nervous,” he added.

He then thinks back to all of the people who told him he wouldn’t make it or didn’t believe in his music. He remembers in high school, no one respected him or took his music seriously. But could he do it? Could he tune out all of the hate and worry only about his passion for music?

Breathe in, breathe out, he tells himself hovering over the edge of the stage looking out to the cheering audience. This is really it.

“I had a vision,” Miller said. “I knew what I was doing and where I was going and I believe in myself, and look where I am now.”

Miller, now 21-years-old, started his career at the age of 17 has already accomplished quite a lot in his short career, including his #1 debut on iTunes hip-hip charts with his second EP. YouTube was Miller’s stage for the past couple of years until radio and local news stations heard his music and decided it was time for the next step in his career and offered him a chance to open for famous rapper Snoop Dogg.

This allowed him to get a taste of what performing in front his longtime YouTube fans felt like. However, his stage fright wasn’t the only thing holding him back from wanting to perform live.

Miller was unsure about performing on a large stage because he wasn’t even sure that was who he truly was or what he even wanted to do. Making YouTube videos was something he was comfortable with and used to doing.

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“I wasn’t an entertainer; I was just an entertainer to myself,” Miller explained.

Because of this mentality, he wasn’t completely sure of the reaction he would get from people since he hadn’t developed a sound or style yet. But he did know one thing — he wasn’t about to turn down a once in a lifetime opportunity.

“After the Snoop Dogg opportunity came about and after that night, I quickly fell in love with performing and all of my stage fright went away,” Miller said. “It made me realize that was what I wanted to do.”

YouTube allowed him to spread his craft of music to share with millions of people with just a few clicks of a button making it his platform for his career. “Social media is everything,” Miller explained. “I honestly don’t know where I would be without YouTube.”

But his YouTube videos weren’t the only way Miller got noticed. He

tried multiple ways of getting his name out there. For example, he used to sit front row of Miami Heat games and pass out mix tapes he would create for famous musicians who were also at the game.

He made one thing clear though: he wasn’t passing out the mix tapes to get the artists to necessarily listen to them, but instead, was more of a way to get his name out there. He always heard the saying, “it’s not what you know it’s who you know,” so he tested that theory out. The talented musician certainly knows a lot about music, so he figured this would get him the in he needed to succeed in the music industry.

“I doubt any of them actually even kept the mix tapes I gave them,” Miller added. “And to be honest, the reactions I got from most of the artists ended up being very bad and embarrassing for me.

Almost like I wasn’t worth any of their time.”

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Miller felt very confused and discouraged at first quickly realizing something important. All of the negative comments these artists were telling him weren’t meant to be negative or to encourage him to quit music, but instead to take as constructive criticism and learn from his mistakes.

“That is why I try my best to pay as much attention and check out on up and coming artists when they tell me about their music and their story behind it,” Miller explained. “It’s important to me and it’s how I learned to become the best artist I could possibly be.”

Miller’s opening acts didn’t stop with Snoop Dogg. Soon after, he was opening for famous musicians all over, such as Mac Miller, Flo Rida and Ne-Yo. This was a dream come true for him.

He first started making music by turning his ninth grade English class poems into songs using Garage Band, only to find out that years later Pharrell Williams had been following him the entire time. “That was pretty awesome to find out,” Miller expressed.

A lot of people have the dream of become a popular, mainstream musician with few actually making it, which was one concern Miller’s parents had as he was entering the music industry.

“I think they were always nervous for me at first because following this path almost never works out. However, they were never skeptical of my hard working habits.”

Miller was influenced to make his hobby into a full time career by artists Mac Miller, Drake, Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake and Asher Roth. Each one encouraged him in a different way.

“I’ve opened for Asher Roth and we talked back stage for hours.

He gives me advice such as ‘ignore the haters,’” Miller went on to explain. “But sometimes my mom still goes on my YouTube account and will delete the bad comments. But I don’t let them get to me, especially looking at my success thus far” He soon became a little star struck since the take off of his career.

“Even to this day, I get star struck performing with people who have been my childhood musical heroes,” he said. “It’s amazing and so surreal that big names that have been around forever want me to open for them.”

But opening for popular artists was just the beginning. Little did Miller know all of the fame that quickly came along with the job.

He was being asked to perform on television shows, interviewed by reporters as well as his music starting to play on the radio nationally.

“It was an indescribable feeling to hear myself on the radio for the first time. Even to this day, I freak out when I hear myself on the radio, even though I hear it once or twice a day. I don’t think that feeling will ever go away or get old to me.”

If you’ve heard Miller’s music, you can quickly notice how it separates itself from any other genre of music. His impressive combination of pop and hip-hop provides you with inspiring life messages. He wanted to bring something new to the table when he entered the music industry, something so real and relatable for everyone to connect too, even if it’s only one song.

“I’ve always said that music without a message is just sound,” Miller explained about his songs. “It’s much more important to make music that will make a difference and spread positivity than music that will make people want to jump and sing. Why not put both together?”

This combination is exactly what Miller’s music provides for people. Every song he has written has been inspired by a time in his life he felt needed to be heard. One of his most popular songs, “A Million Lives,” is an anti-bullying message that was inspired by personal struggles and realization growing up.

Almost every day he receives fan mail from fans telling them his story and how his music has helped or changed their life.

Sometimes, how it has even saved their life.

“This song is simply a tribute to my fans to show that not only do I strive to inspire my fans, but they inspire me just as much,” Miller added about the meaning behind the song. “The video was very emotional to make because my friend who just beat cancer was in the video.”

This song opened up of making music and during the rest of his communicating back listening to you.”

Miller’s eyes and heart to the importance clarified the music he was going to make career. He said his songs are his way of to his fans saying, “I hear you and I’m

Miller also tries to switch up his beats incorporating different genres into his music as much as possible to make the unique style that Miller fits and can call his own. “I like the variation of rap and singing in songs, they compliment each other well,” Miller said.

“I’m a music lover in general, no matter the style or genre.”

Miller recently released his new album, Us Against Them, in November that was a huge milestone in Miller’s career, one that he couldn’t be more proud of.

“I think the fans love this album more than anything I’ve ever put out there,” Miller added. “There is truly something for everyone on this album to listen to.”

While Miller enjoyed making his album, he also likes what comes with it: touring. “Touring is the most fun part of this whole industry,” he explained. “I get to meet new fans, explore new cities and I even get to do it with my best friends and family at such a young age…there honestly isn’t anything better.”

But making music and touring comes with its ups and downs.

Miller realized quickly that he isn’t going to please everyone with his lyrics, but accepts it knowing that his support system is stronger than the people who don’t.

“Everyone is going to have haters. No matter how good you are at what you do, you are going to have them,” Miller said. “In fact, the better you are at what you do, the more haters you’ll attract.

You need to not let them get to you.”

That simple life lesson Miller learned growing up and through his mentors has made him into the confident artists he is today

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allowing him to keep growing and pursuing his passion of music for himself and his fans. Them, along with his friends and family, are the ones that keep his hopes high when people try to pull him down.

“I’m lucky enough to be surrounded by some amazing people who are constantly keeping me on track,” Miller added. “My fans make me want to do bigger and better things.”

Miller added this to his list of accomplishments as a newer artist: recently landing a record deal with Warner Brothers Records.

On November 18th, Miller announced to his 400,000 plus fans through Twitter the big news. It was difficult for him to keep it a secret, as he had known for a while. He had been waiting a very long time to tell everyone in hopes they would be just as excited for him about this record deal.

“It was obviously a dream come true. I also had a video come out that day,” Miller explained.

His friends and family were in the video “popping champagne and celebrating together,” as though it was a symbol of his own success.

“The night that I signed that deal was the greatest night of my life,” Miller said.

Miller and his team felt that Warner Bros. Records was the bets choice for him because since he has signed, Miller said it has proved to him that they will make him their top priority making him the biggest artist on their label. “I just feel at home with them and I’m more than excited to call them my new family,” he said.

While signing with a major record label seemed to put the icing on the cake in Miller’s career thus far, he said that a simple trip to any Target, Wal-Mart of Best Buy gets him even more excited because he gets to see his album on the shelves.

“My album sits right next to all of my favorite artists,” he explained.

“It’s thrilling to realize every day how far I have come since the beginning.”

Fans can look out for new music, new music videos and more tours this year from the talented Miller this year.

“I plan to do everything I’m already doing now, just on a much bigger scale,” Miller explained. “I can’t wait to show everyone what I have in store for them this year.”

POSED PHOTOS: Jordan Fischels LIVE PHOTOS: Tarina Doolittle INTERVIEW & STORY: Abby Welsh

“I’VE ALWAYS SAID THAT MUSIC WITHOUT A MESSAGE IS JUST SOUND. IT’S MUCH MORE IMPORTANT TO MAKE MUSIC THAT WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND SPREAD POSITIVITY THAN MUSIC THAT WILL MAKE PEOPLE WANT TO JUMP AND SING. WHY NOT PUT BOTH TOGETHER?

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TOUR ROUND UP

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P

PHOTO: Cara Bahniuk

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PHOTO: Cara Bahniuk

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album

reviews artist: Issues album: Issues rating:

Sounds like: Woe, Is Me Enter Shakari That’s Outrageous!

Recommended tracks: “Late” “Life Of A Nine” “Disappear (Remember When)”

Tracks: 1

Sad Ghost

2

Mad at Myself

3

Life of a Nine

4

The Langdon House

5

Late

6

Old Dena

7

Stingray Affliction

8

Never Lose Your Flames

9

Personality Cult

10

Tears on the Runaway Pt. 2

11

The Settlement

12

Disappear (Remember When)

Release date: February 18th, 2014

website: issuesrock.com

The brainchild of ex-Woe, Is Me vocalists Tyler Carter and Michael Bohn, Issues’ debut selftitled has been long-awaited. Unfortunately, the album is quite confusing at times, but also is refreshing and creative. The opening track, “Sad Ghost,” started with a calm yet suspenseful intro but surprisingly takes a drastic turn about 30 seconds into the song. As a whole, the song just did not seem to sit well and made no sense, yet I oddly still enjoyed the song.

One of my favorite songs, “Life Of A Nine,” shows off Carter’s soul-influenced vocal style which challenges the heavier and more aggressive guitar work, a technique that transforms this incredibly catchy track into a true Issues tune. Shortly after, about midway through the album, the band seems to take yet another turn with “Old Dena [by Scout],” a one and a half minute long experimental track reminiscent of a late ’90s or early 2000s rap remix played in a secret underground club.

Overall, the album does a great job highlighting Bohn’s iconic screams and growls and Carter’s heavenly melodic voice; the magnetic combination that makes Issues great. Issues is also subtly laced with heavy hip-hop and electronic influences throughout, but lacks flow. Each song is scattered and almost bipolar in nature. Part of me wants to love the album, but part of me, after hours of listening, still does not understand what is going on.

However, the album ends on a mind-blowingly high note with “Disappear [Remember When],” a powerful anthem that end someone finishes with a choir belting the incredibly catching hook “Remember When.” I am absolutely in awe and shock at the pure perfection in the ending. It was unexpected but fantastic.

As Issues’ debut album, it is a solid endeavor. There are some great redeeming songs that remind the listener of the band’s potential, but they might just have to weed out all the confusing ones first.

REVIEW: Theresa Pham

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Artist: Broken Bells Album: After The Disco As a duo of veteran musicians, Danger Mouse and The Shins’ frontman, James Mercer bring each of their unique styles from their separate projects to create something one-of-a-kind. Simply from looking at the title of Broken Bells’ second fulllength, After The Disco, it sounds mostly how you would predict it to: disco. Rightfully named, the compilation is a blast from the past infused with the technology of the present. Elements of classic rock are evident with funky bass lines and psychedelic, futuristic synth melodies that mingle together. This combination seems overwhelming and cluttered on paper, but musically it just works.

If there is any track that sounds like it was produced in the wrong generation, it is “Holding On For Life,” which embodies the unlikely combination of sci-fi sound effects. Mercer’s incredible vocal range sounds almost identical to the Bee Gees.

“Leave It Alone” and “Lazy Wonderland” both take an alternate route to the songs surrounding them on the track list, with a much mellower vibe of guitars and violins dominating the melodies as Mercer’s voice trembles and echoes over the instruments.

After The Disco is the love child of the ’70s and the present day. Alternative meets Disco and somehow hits it off, proving that in many cases that the cliché “opposites attract” is a true statement.

recommended tracks: “After The Disco” & “Control” review: Haley Black

Artist: Modern Baseball Album: You’re Gonna Miss It All Modern Baseball is your quintessential emo band. Like many of their genre-mates you never really can pin point exactly what genre they’re trying to be. Whether its Pop-Punk, Country, Indie, or just pocketbook Emo; Modern Baseball covers all of the bases with their first full-length release on Run For Cover Records. Their unique version of Emo coupled with the lead vocalists monologues vaguely reminiscent of Johnny Cash’s talking-singing style, leave a lasting impression.

You’re Gonna Miss It All is an album that will scare you with just how much you’re able to relate to it. However, this is not the only quality that this album possesses.

Modern Baseball will have you laughing, singing, joking, and weeping all throughout the album. With tracks like “Going To Bed Now” that host an upbeat country-esque vibe and a walking bass line that drives the song forward, you’ll laugh as they tells the story of their DIY start that every musician in a small local band knows all to well. Then there are songs like “Your Graduation,” a driving PopPunk influenced song that is so relatable it hurts. Not to mention the guest vocals in the second verse are perfect, filled with angst, and just simply raw.

After this, You’re Gonna Miss It All ends on a more somber note, with tracks like “Two Good Things” and “Pothole.” Both of which are bone chilling emotional songs that leave you drained but begging for more. With this release Modern Baseball has left their mark on the scene.

recommended tracks: “Your Graduation” & “Two Good Things” review: Trevor Figge

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