Rock Voltage, a modern rock and roll magazine profiling local artists and venues in the midatlantic region and beyond, welcomes you to its latest edition. We cover the lifestyles of local, regional and national rock stars, plus emerging artists, and offer insider tips on recording and breaking out in the music industry. Readers will also find music, concert and album reviews from our experts at Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews, local journalists and industry professionals. We will feature exclusive band interviews, contests, reader polls and creative ways to interact with local artists. Rock Voltage was founded on the premise of educating and stimulating the local public about the musical talent that exists in the region. We bring you the very best of a modern mixed-media experience: a familiar magazine reading format, available on your computer, laptop, tablet or mobile device anytime, and that instantly connects to music, videos and your favorite advertisers with a single click.
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Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews mission is to promote a positive image of rock and roll and to work tirelessly to live up to their motto “Changing the World through Rock and Roll�. MARR works with multiple charities and organizations to promote a positive image of rock and roll and to support their fellow man. Some of these efforts include selling MARR bracelets to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation, sponsoring a MARR Rocks for MDA Benefit concert, working with Voice of Warriors and Fallen Blue and supporting multiple other charitable projects. As Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews enters its fourth year, the founding couple has expanded coverage far beyond the Mid-Atlantic Region to cover music all over the United States and beyond. They have a presence at live rock and roll shows and major festivals and rock cruises all over the United States. You will usually find K-rock and Ms. MARR
with the crowd at shows where they meet and greet their readers, followers and MARR Rock Army members. Their unique way of covering music from a fans perspective surrounded by their followers and friends has legitimized their coverage by fans, bands promoters and record labels alike. Mid- Atlantic Rock Reviews also produces The MARR Army Rock Show. This syndicated radio program airs weekly on 15 stations and features interviews, new music, music news and music you won't hear played many other places. The show can be heard weekly on Tuesdays from 5-7 pm EST on www.365radionetwork.com and from 7-9 PM EST on www.digitalrevolutionradio.com. It can also be heard on Thursdays from 7-9 pm EST on www.theindieauthority.com
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CREDITS
Publisher: Mona Freedman Editor: Jay Freedman Lead Designer: Timothy Stump Graphic Designer: Kenneth Smith Art Direction: Jay Freedman Contributing Writers: K-Rock Ms. MARR Christina Coy Christopher Malone David Schroeder Roseanne Wood
If you are reading Rock Voltage online then so are thousands of your customers, fans and music lovers. CLICK HERE to download a media kit or contact mona@groundwirerecords.com or 410.549.5490
MS. ROCK VOLTAGE 2014 . . . . . 7
LEFTSTRONGER . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Candy Mefferd
A band evolving
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT . . . . . . . . . .12
HAMMERJACKS BACK . . . . . . . .16
Joseph Wood of Leftstronger
The return of the legendary Baltimore club
TIPS FROM THE PROS . . . . . . . .26
ART OF DYING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Tim German, Manager
Poised to explode
KICKIN CANCER’S ASS . . . . . . . .38
MARR ROCKS FOR MDA . . . . . .41
A Fighting Playlist.
Changing the world through rock and roll
2
STATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Wired
SAINTS OF REBELLION . . . . . . .15 New American Dream
WOODS OF ARDEN . . . . . . . . . .24 Candidate For Consumption
DRILL 187 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 From The Ashes Of Man
MACH 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
JOHN TAGLIERI . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Southern Paradise
JACKY VINCENT . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Star X Speed Story
MUSHROOMHEAD . . . . . . . . . . .13 The Rightous And The Butterfly
FRAMING HANLEY . . . . . . . . . . .20
Sweet Talk Intervention
The Sum Of Who We Are
VARGA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
CIMINO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Enter The Metal
Angels And Animals 3
NEW ALBUM
John Taglieri: Greetings from Southern Paradise By: Dave Tedder
2014
has started off huge for singer/songwriter John Taglieri. It was announced on January 27th that John won the Rockwired Radio Music Award for Best Recording (EP) for his release Southern Paradise (Leap Dog Music / Vanity Music Group). Taglieri's 11th effort, released in April 2013, has been selling steadily and helped Taglieri find a bit of a new audience with it's pop country feel. . Peaking at #5 on Amazon.com’s Hot New Releases chart and with radio airplay and a video with nearly 5000 views, the EP has made a solid name
for itself. He won the Best Recording nod in a viewers voted poll on Rockwired Radio, which makes it even sweeter. “Knowing that this was decided by fans makes it really special to me...” says Taglieri. “I’ve been doing this a long time and to still be here and making music that people connect with means the world to me.” On top of that, Taglieri has also hit #1 on the
ReverbNation Rock Charts for the Boston area. Living just south of Boston puts him in an area of great talent and great bands and artists. With all of his touring, promotion and sales, the web traffic he’s created has driven him up to the top spot, with a steady stream of plays and people visiting his page. "Southern Paradise" (single) has also broken through on the Hi-Tracks Top 100 Charts in The Netherlands. Entering the chart at #88 two weeks ago, the song is picking up steam and has moved up a couple of spots to #86.
JohnTaglieri.com Facebook.com/JohnTaglieriMusic ReverbNation.com/JohnTaglieri 4
NEW ALBUM I. MAYBE I AM A WOLF II. VENOM LOVE III. STAR X SPEED IV. WITHOUT YOU V. HEAVEN OR HELL? VI. NEO CONCERTO VII. IF YOU WERE MINE VIII. RUNAWAY TRYST IX. THE TEMPEST X. FATAL ENVY XI. BURNING TEARS XII. SIDESCROLLER XIII. I CAN NEVER GO HOME (REPRISE)
C
onsidered among the top young shred guitarists in contemporary music, Jacky Vincent's new CD, Star X Speed Story, showcases a guitarist with an exciting collection of great guitar instrumentals with enough taste and technique to satisfy the most discriminating guitar fan. In the tradition of other great Shrapnel instrumental CD's, this record is brimming with important performances by one of the world's greatest new technicians. Born in Portsmouth, England in 1989, just before the high tech guitar craze and heavy metal gave way to grunge, Jacky Vincent was inspired by guitarists such as Paul Gilbert, Jason Becker, Vinnie Moore, Joe Satriani, and Steve Vai.
Jacky was just 20 years old when he heard that Epitaph recording artists "Falling In Reverse" were looking for a guitarist. Jacky quickly recorded a home demo, sent it to the band in the USA, recorded his guitar tracks on their debut record and hit the road to support the record. In 2012 the band was added to the main stage on the Vans WARPED tour where they played all over the USA for a couple of months. They also opened for Guns N Roses at the Hollywood Palladium in March of 2012. At 24, Jacky Vincent plays 80's influenced shred guitar better than most great guitarists of that era and combines it with electronic trance grooves.
5
ARTIST PROFILE
C
ount's 77, a hard rock band from Las Vegas launched their debut album on April 29, 2014 with Shrapnel Records. The band is fronted by lead singer Danny "Count" Koker, star of HISTORY'S hit series "Counting Cars". With roots in 70's hard rock, Count's 77 is powered by the twin guitar team of John Zito and Stoney Curtis, the latter of whom has an international following as a recording and touring blues guitarist. With musical roots as diverse as Thin Lizzy, Foghat, The Allman Brothers and Led Zeppelin, Count's 77 stands poised to be one of the leaders of the new classic rock revival, with a sound reminiscent of one of the greatest musical eras of all time. Koker, Count’s 77’s charismatic frontman was singing long before he came into international fame as the owner of Count’s Kustoms, his Las Vegas-based hotrod and chopper shop. Heading into season four of his hit TV series “Counting Cars” on HISTORY, he splits his pastimes between his love of all things automotive and his passion for music and has included Count 6
77 on the show on seasons two and three. Stoney Curtis, lead guitarist for Count’s 77, has amassed an international following as a recording and touring blues guitarist, releasing a steady flow of product for the last ten years, including the 2012 critically acclaimed double live CD and DVD set. With international airplay and CD’s which consistently have made Amazon.com’s blues charts, Curtis is not only an amazing counterpart to frontman Koker, he also adds further notoriety to the group stemming from his rich history as a professional musician. Count’s 77 recently performed at the Mega Speed Fest in Toronto, Canada and new dates for festivals are being added regularly during the summer of 2014 including Erie, PA, Grand Rapids MI, Chicago, Il, West Springfield, MA, Texas, Tennessee and many more. For more information, please visit www.counts77.com or www.countskustoms.com.
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RED TIDE RISING
D
enver-based Red Tide Rising has created a stir within the music world, both on a fan base and an industry level. The band blasted out of the gate upon their formation in the fall of 2007 when brothers Matthew and Andrew Whiteman teamed up with a rhythm section that didn’t work out. They went through a few different lineup changes before settling on the team of bass guitarist, Sean Verity and drummer, Matt Guerin. In early 2013 Red Tide Rising returned to the studio to record their next full length album, The Rising. Working with producers Mike McAree (In This Moment Engineer) and Jeff Kanan (formerly with Westlake Studios) they have completed recording all 12
tracks for the album. To date 3 singles; The Rising, COLD and 2:13 have been released as singles. These early release singles have been well received by fans and radio stations alike. The album is scheduled for completion in June 2013. Red Tide Rising is currently scheduling tour dates in support of the new album. The year 2012 was the breakout year for Red Tide Rising. They were selected to tour the US in direct support of In This Moment on their nonfestival Blood Tour dates, which included one date with Hatebreed. The band’s sophomore effort, Inferno, was recorded at various studios throughout Denver and produced by the band’s 19 year old guitarist, Andrew Whiteman. “Managing,
“ It's all about what we believe in as a band and working together to achieve greatness”
8
producing and recording weren’t as hard as I thought it would be,” says Whiteman. “We would come together with the songs and make instrumental and vocal changes before hitting studio. Once in studio, if an idea came up, we would record it real fast and continue on from there making the process flow together! Jamey Bartley co-produced the track “Inferno” and further expanded its melodic potential on both vocals and instrumentation.” Shortly after the Inferno EP was recorded, the band was doing an interview with Cleveland based Maximum Threshold Radio when the suggestion was made to contact Spat! Records. Management stepped up and a digital deal was initially struck for the lead single from Inferno, “Finding Home.” The single was extremely well received and a deal was then put in place for the Inferno Ep, as well. The band is also donating a portion of the sales from “Finding Home” to the suicide prevention organization, Out Of the Darkness. Inferno is comprised of six tracks, including a radio edit of the song, “Welcome To Zombietown” and kicks off with “Unholy”, a track designed to make the listener uneasy and afraid as it represents the negative and
sometimes irrational thought process that occurs when someone is depressed. That then rolls into the title track, “Inferno”, dealing with inner conflict in order to achieve balance. “This is a story of the inner struggles of someone who doesn’t want to change their destructive ways, and hopes the only way to overcome it is to reach a point of rock bottom, but deep inside knows there is no hope left and they cannot change, they will always be stuck in a state of their own Hell,” relates frontman, Matthew Whiteman. “Dark Asylum” went through seven different changes before the band was happy with it. Matthew adds, “When it was originally written, the song was about 7 minutes long. It appears on our first album, ‘Perfect Enemy’, at just over 5 minutes. We looked back at the song for the Inferno EP because we liked the idea and groove of the song, but not its time stamp. After many lyrical cuts and revisions, we have the strongest (and catchiest) version of “Dark Asylum!” “Welcome To Zombietown” is a fan favorite and is “simply a survival guide inspired by the movie Zombieland!” laughs Andrew. 9
Leftstronger: A Band Evolving by Roseanne Wood
J
esse Magee lives and breathes music. Anyone who really knows Jesse will quickly praise his talent as the lead singer with a 4+ octave vocal range, songwriter and musician. Clinging to music as a lifeline in his youth, a song always seems to be in the works; a new riff, or perhaps a drum beat that he’s developing. His band Leftstronger is the primary external outlet for his creativity; and it’s gone through numerable challenges and changes, constantly orbiting Jesse. Finding the elusive ”defining sound” is no simple task. I sat down with Jesse and we spoke about some of those challenges and the evolution of Leftstronger. Right from the beginning Jesse identified one of the band’s greatest challenges as “trying to do something out of the box.” After speaking 10
with him, it was interesting to hear the level of business-like pragmatism he applies to Leftstronger’s trials. He knows the music and he believes in the product; but his challenge, like so many rising bands today, is reaching audiences on a large scale. When asked how he views the current industry, he logically stepped outside of his own box and responded: “No matter what genre of music you are performing, you have to work at getting a fan base, even if you were in a bigger city like LA. You have to look at it like you’re going to become the big fish in the little pond, or then the big fish in a[n even] bigger pond. You never know what an artist can do until you give them the opportunity. The music industry has made a lot of bad decisions, and so now it’s making decisions a little more carefully… I saw show in DC, Nickelback and Shinedown, even both
of them together couldn’t sell the place all out. Maybe about half [the stadium] was full. When you see bands like them, who are obviously successful… [the state of the music industry is] hurting that much that even a big band couldn’t sell out a stadium. You take that into consideration and then add in the factor of us being in Eldersburg, MD… (laughs a bit)… So the idea is to make a lot of noise either inside of the area or outside the area. Using the internet helps a lot, too.” When discussing the sound and vision of the new album, Pieces, Jesse quickly delves into technical musicality with thorough delight. It’s clear this is what he loves as he explains beats and rhythms. One of the ways that Leftstronger is evolving (and that Jesse is consciously incorporating into the writing process) is the influence and usage of different genres. “To be honest, I never had a set type of genre in mind. When I first grew up I listened to jazz and progressive light stuff because that’s what my dad listened to on the radio. But then I moved up here (Westminster, MD) in ‘89
and listened to Petty and Stevie Ray Vaughn, so I got into blues a lot. Then on the school bus I heard country, I wasn’t crazy about it, but I
liked the harmonies. Then in ‘91 Nirvana came out and from there I got heavier and heavier, with bands like Pantera and Alice in Chains.
Then sophomore year came along and I picked up my guitar and wrote “So Close” the first time. That was just my vision, not a specific thing or genre. Some people say it’s bad to have one specific vision, but [it’s like how] I have no peripheral vision, I don’t get distracted.” Music for him is an entire entity unto itself, not a genre. Fans of the 2009 debut album, So Close, will likely think of Leftstronger as an alternative, hard-rock, or grunge band. With Pieces, however, fans should expect to find themselves surprised by the range and diversity that is shown from song to song. I’ve heard the roughcut of the album, and it has definitely been worth the wait! Each track captures a different facet of the band’s abilities and imagination. With bluesy songs like “Sick and Tired” to the near-anthem level rock of “Monster”, it’s impossible to listen to this album and not be captivated. Leftstronger’s first on-the-road show will take place this summer in Bristol, TN, with their good friends, The Buddz. See the complete tour on www.LeftStronger.com 11
Joseph Wood
J
oseph Wood is a versatile drummer who began playing in church shortly after elementary school. The son of a music director, Joe was fortunate to have the opportunity to learn on the job while playing in front of huge crowds during regional conferences and camps. By playing in a live and improvisational setting, Joseph developed his sense of dynamics and soul that still reflects in his playing today. Upon discovering Soundgarden and Metallica, Joseph began seeking out like-minded musicians to cover hard rock. After a handful of years playing covers, Joe became a founding member of the locally successful band “Bed?� in 2001. Unfortunately the band broke up, and Joe moved to Detroit to play with a variety of working bands in the area. He is currently entrenched as the drummer for Leftstronger, a rapidly emerging band out of
Baltimore. Joe's path to Leftstronger has been riddled with ups and downs that have given him an excellent perspective and a tenacious work ethic. Joe's top influences include: Soundgarden, Silverchair, Metallica, Alice in Chains, Pain of Salvation, Pink Floyd, Dream Theater, and Rush.
The Extreme series combines heavier weight with precise hammering and lathing patterns to crate a dark, penetrating yet musical tone.With a raw bell and raw edge, the Extreme Series produces a warm, dark and deep tone. The center lathing and hand-hammering of the Extreme Series produces a cutting sound.
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NEW ALBUM
M
ushroomhead, the influential industrial metal band from Cleveland, OH, will release its eighth studio album The Righteous & The Butterfly May 13th via Megaforce Records. Recorded in Cleveland, the band self produced the record with longtime coproducer Bill Korecky. The CD consists of 14 tracks, ranging from songs about survival and balance (“Devils Be Damned”, “Qwerty”, “Son Of 7”) to emotionally charged anthems (“For Your Pleasure”, “Worlds Collide”) to a riff heavy rendition of Adele’s #1 hit “Rumor Has It”. Mushroomhead is comprised of drummers Skinny, Robert Diablo and Stitch, Vocalists J Mann, Jeffery Nothing & Waylon, guitarist Church, Keyboardist Schmotz, and bassist Dr. F. The album’s title The Righteous & The Butterfly is a dedication to original guitarist, J.J. Righteous and the band’s former photographer (and drummer Steve “Skinny” Felton’s wife) Vanessa Solowiow who both passed away too soon. “J.J. was a key member of our band” says Skinny. “He played on the first three records and Vanessa was our photographer and the mother of my children. They were both huge pieces of Mushroomhead and this record is dedicated to them. The Righteous & The Butterfly marks the return of vocalist J Mann and the debut of new guitarist Church and bassist Dr. F. “This album damn near wrote itself” proclaims Skinny. “With J mann’s return, this album is a fresh twist on a familiar
vibe. It’s also the first album with Church and Dr. F. They brought in fresh blood while keeping the integrity of the band’s sound and vision intact. This is the 20th year of Mushroomhead and this album is us getting back to our roots.” Mushroomhead came together when drummer Skinny formed the band as a side project. The band wore masks to go unrecognized, but after only a few shows they developed a rabid and loyal fan base in Cleveland. They released their 1995 self-titled debut album independently and it went on to became an underground hit. This was history in the making because the band really had no proper distribution. Superbuick followed in 1996 and M3 in 1999, all released via an underground street effort. After the band felt its image and hyper-melodic, heavy style of music was being diluted by other bands jumping into this space, the band started to change their look to reflect nothing out there. After a brief stint on Eclipse Records, a move to Universal Records saw the release of XX (a combination of the past independent releases) in 2001. In 2003, XIII was released, spawning the single "Sun Doesn't Rise" which was featured on MTV: Headbangers Ball and the Freddy Vs. Jason soundtrack. The album also featured the hidden track "Crazy", a song originally recorded by Seal. The album debuted at #40 on the Billboard Top 200 charts and sold 400,000 copies worldwide. In December 2005, the band signed with the pioneering rock label, Megaforce Records (Metallica, Anthrax, Ministry) and released Savior Sorrow in 2006. In the Fall of 2010, the band released “Beautiful Stories for Ugly Children” and it debuted at #44 on the Billboard charts. Mushroomhead will be touring extensively in 2014 to support the effort. 13
REVIEW By Christina Coy
I
f you are aching for a refreshing sound in the world of rock than the band known as Station is what I would prescribe. Station shoots out of New York, NY with high impact energy and songs that will set you rocking with your fists in the air. A four-piece band of rockers that know how to put the muse back in music: Station keeps the music simple and fun but yet at the same time it has the power to kick you in the face.
Station's Ep Wired consists of four songs that from the start set your toes tapping and your brain singing along. "Wired" Produced by the one and only Michael Wagener (Motley Crue, Extreme, Metallica) leaves you longing for more. From the first track "Everything" you are catapulted into a frenzy of great beats by drummer Brian Karl. While singer Patrick Kearney brings his vocal talent and powerful range to the front leading you into what can only be referred to as the sing along chorus of all time. Chris Lane continues the assault with his guitar riffs built for ultimate satisfaction while Mike Anderson glues it all together with a bass rhythm that makes you groove. "True Believer" makes you take notice of Lane's prowess on guitar. Spectacular riffs and one guitar solo that will leave you drooling. This tune is a sing-a-long raise your hands up favorite that will leave you breathless in the end. The band has a real knack for writing ballads, and "I'd Understand" shows their talent in writing these tunes. It is an acoustic blend of voice and guitar to create a beautiful masterpiece of notes that will leave you basking in the afterglow. I listened several times to this one and each time I was left with a new feeling. Something new can be heard with each pass that you might not have heard before. A song that keeps you discovering. My favorite track on the Wired EP is "Don't Take Heaven Away From Me". I have a fondness for this song for many reasons. The main reason being that it is just "Kick Ass". That is the plain and simple truth. From the opening guitar riff to the infectious beat then follow up with the kick in the face vocals that just leap out at you. It is a fun song that is a musical pleasure to 14
listen to. Your ears, your brain and your rock spirit will thank you. Station is a hard hitting, no punches pulled band. Their high voltage energy can be felt through their music as they take you into what I call "The Rock Zone". That is the little area of time and space where the music hits you and you forget everything. Station has been placed on my "Kicking Cancer's Ass" playlist for that reason. Their music allows that escape but also that push you need to say "I got this!". If you are a fan of Van Halen, Dokken, Skid Row or Extreme you are sure to enjoy Station's style of rock. Hurry and get your hands on the Wired EP! According to the bands Facebook page they are running low on copies. They currently are working on their first fulllength album and have been touring the country with some great dates including The 2014 "M-Pre Party" in Columbia, Maryland and "Rocklahoma" which they played in May. Station is a band that knows how to rock you to the core and they will leave you with a smile.
REVIEW By Christina Coy
W
hen I hear words like rock, dynamite, and explosive to describe music I instantly think about Saints of Rebellion. This is a band that not only knows how to rock but they know how to make you rock with them. I had the pleasure and excitement to see their debut show in March at the MARR Rocks for MDA II show. They blew me away. Their personalities are just as impressive as their musical talent. From the moment I met drummer Ryche Green I was greeted with a smile that I am sure was powered by coffee but was genuine nonetheless. This resulted in one of my favorite pictures of the night and a meeting I will never forget. Meeting Coby was an honor. This man is purely awesome (that is by the way his favorite word). His vocal style is smokey and soulful just as his personality. Jay Hitaffer is a multi-talented guy. He makes a lot of the bands clothes as well as being a master bass player. Every time I see Jay I am welcomed with a hug that stays with me for months. John Adams is a quiet man but has an energy about him that can not be denied. He will talk to you about anything, but the mention of his pets is what makes him come to life. All four of these guys have a soft spot for animals and are part of the "Show Your Soft Side" campaign against animal abuse. A cause that is near and dear to their hearts.
Saints of Rebellion are here to deliver New American Dream with a loud blast of rock. Their debut album is an in your face, back off, take no prisoners work of art. From the opening track titled "New American Dream" you are ripped raw and left shaking for more. You are hit with "Gasoline" and the guitar wielding John Adams explodes with a guitar solo and riffs that rock you to the core. Moving on to "Alone" a slower paced ballad that showcases Coby DeShazo's vocal talent.
Coby has the ability to draw you into this song and then throw you out to the four corners of it making you feel like you are in the song not just listening to it. The 4th track on the album "Garden" is a slow rocking heavy hitter. Jay Hitaffer on bass pulls this one together with his rhythmic assault. Ryche Green's infectious, heavy hitting drum performance makes this one a groove-tastic example of Saints Of Rebellion's limitless range of style. If you are looking for a classic rock song with a little edge then you are going to love "Get You Some". It features a hook that will grab you and have you singing along in a matter of seconds. As I was listening to "Wine, Women, & Song" It grabbed me with its southwest guitar feel and set me free with the chorus. Jay Hitaffer's bass playing is brought to the front for "Matters" while John continues to back him up with his melodic riffs on guitar. Ryche on drums is the glue that holds that piece together and makes it stick to Coby's powerful voice. A fun southern rock feel can be found on "30 and a 5th . A popping, sing-a-long chorus greets you as nod your head in unison to the groove and I guarantee you will smile on that one. Hearing "Better Days" instantly transported me to a room full of rock energy that hits you hard like a punch to the gut. John's guitar solo had my head spinning from what I like to call guitar candy. There is one song on The Saints of Rebellion album that stands out to me. That song is "Rise".From the opening notes I knew that it was something special. I found myself sitting with my eyes closed feeling every note of the guitar, drums and bass. Saints of Rebellion are currently on a summer tour. You can check them out and their current show dates at www.SaintsofRebellion.com. Do not miss the chance to see these guys perform. Coby DeShazo, Jay Hitaffer, Ryche Green, and John Adams are the Saints of Rebellion and they are here to rock! 15
The Return of Hammerjacks: Part One The Lazarus of Rock Venues
By Christopher Malone
A
s Hammerjacks prepares to make its triumphant return to the Baltimore music scene, Rock Voltage Magazine takes a look at the venues storied past and its ambitious future. When musicians think about the great rock venues located in the United States, their lists tend to be somewhat identical, mixing today’s great clubs with the ghosts of rock and roll past. After all, who wouldn’t want to play Seattle’s Crocodile Café, and grace the same stage made famous by the likes of Nirvana in their Pen Cap Chew heyday? Who wouldn’t want to go metal with Motley Crue at The Troubadour in West Hollywood, or even throw down with a Doors cover at Whiskey A Go-Go just a few blocks away? Although the legend of these venues will last forever, the durability of the clubs themselves can sometimes be tenuous. While certain clubs have continued to thrive, others flirt with the idea of shuttering their doors (see The Crocodile Café, now just The Crocodile) and some are taken from us, seemingly forever (RIP CBGB!) It was that promise of forever that was thrown at Baltimoreans back in 2006, when The Sun broke news that the third incarnation of Hammerjacks had just gone under. “The rumors are true,” former owner Michael W. 16
Hunter, Jr. declared on the club’s voicemail over eight years ago, “[On] May 27th, Hammerjacks will be closing their doors forever.” And yet, forever doesn’t seem to be all that long, especially if you’re Kevin Butler, the man behind the resurgence of the Hammerjacks brand in Baltimore. With his creative will, Hammerjacks is now everywhere you look. Hammerjacks merchandise can be purchased online (hammerjacksonline.com), updates on the venues future are posted to Facebook, and new promises are being tweeted almost daily
from their Twitter handle (@Hammerjacksnews). These are promises like #lightningdoesstriketwice and #TheLegendIsComing, but what exactly is the legend of Hammerjacks? If you’re a part of the youngest generation of musicians and rock fans, you might not realize what you’ve missed out on. Much like when the Orioles won their last World Series, the Millennials seemed to have missed out on a window of Charm City history that was only open for Gen Xers. So what was the big deal about Hammerjacks? Simply put, it was one of the go-to rock venues
on the East Coast, and the greatest site for live music that Maryland had to offer. In its prime, Hammerjacks featured performances by the biggest names of an era, including Kix, Ratt, Skid Row, Poison, and Guns N Roses. When it wasn’t busy showcasing the top of the charts, it was ushering in some of the earliest incarnations of future alt-rock stars like the Goo Goo Dolls and Jane’s Addiction, as well as providing a local stage for Baltimore musicians with guitars in their hands and stars in their eyes. The venue’s humble origins began in 1977 as a small townhouse club in Federal Hill on South Charles Street, where the bar Nobles now stands today. As Butler recalls, “They didn’t have any live bands then, but they had two PAs and they were cranking AC/DC.” The club’s popularity was well established, with lines snaking around the block to get in, only allowing people to enter as others left to avoid problems with the fire code. Eventually, this popularity would spark a move to a new location on South Howard Street. The year was 1981, and although then-owner Louis J. Principio Jr. probably hadn’t known it at the time, he had just put Hammerjacks in a position to catch lightning in a bottle. While Eddie Money might have been their very first featured live act, the club quickly hosted acts ranging from punk to glam-rock, and eventually found their greatest niche with the big-hair and heavy metal acts of the time period. These are the moments that Butler remembers most fondly, as a young man who wanted to go out with his friends and catch the greatest acts of the year, and he wasn’t the only one who felt that way. Practically all of the surrounding areas’ youths were drawn to Hammerjacks, regardless of race or class. The Hip-Hop and Electronica movements had yet to
fully take root in the area, and the live music scene was considerably attractive to anyone with free evenings and a pulse. On any given night, it wasn’t out of the ordinary to see rock fans heavily made-up, clad in the latest trends of leather, lace, and spandex. For all intents and purposes, it was the closest most could get to being in an original MTV music video. With such a ground-swell of support and national recognition, it’s hard to believe that a venue like Hammerjacks could’ve gone anywhere but up, and if you were standing in the line outside of the club on South Howard Street in the late 80s and early 90s, you probably would’ve agreed. However, things changed in the mid-nineties. The Grunge Rock movement was sweeping the nation, and the venue had trouble adapting to the new sound. The club’s death rattle, however, became apparent when the city got the rights to an expansion NFL team, and needed the space for a new stadium’s parking lot. When Hammerjacks was eventually torn down in June of 1997, Baltimore lost its own Mecca of Rock and Roll, and while other venues have since come along, it’s been hard to revive the spirit and atmosphere of the east coast’s biggest rock and roll night club. Until now. As Butler’s website has promised, “Lightning does strike twice!!” and since launching Hammerjacks Entertainment Group (HEG) as the venue’s operating entity, it looks like he means serious business. Baltimore and the rest of the Maryland/DC area had better prepare themselves. The legend is coming. (For updates on the development of Hammerjacks, follow them @Hammerjacksnews and visit them online at www.hammerjacksonline.com) 17
ARTIST PROFILE
K
orupt formed back in 1982, back when the "hair band" movement had begun and they are still together after almost 30 years. Korupt has played many bars, clubs, and venues over the years including Hammerjack's. They've been the opening acts for bands such as Great White, Skid Row, RATT, Dokken, and Quiet Riot. And on May 14th of 2011, Korupt performed at the M3 Rock Festival at Merriweather Post Pavilion. One of the largest festivals of its kind. Korupt is also performing at the Island Day festival on October 15th.
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Korupt is NOT your typical cover band. They are a group of talented musicians dedicated to the music of our metal friends of the 80's. They have harnessed this energy and they reproduce it in the truest form. At a Korupt show you'll hear jams from the great rock acts of the 80's: Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Motley Crue, Metallica, Skid Row, Dokken, and much, much more. Their shows are high energy, their sound is exceptional, and their performances will floor you. www.korupted.com
NEW ALBUM
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raming Hanley’s new album The Sum Of Who We Are on Imagen Records is the band’s boldest artistic statement to date, capturing the essence of innocence and hope, light and darkness, struggle and determination. The album is a collection of modern alternative rock infused with undeniable pop hooks, heartfelt lyrics and huge choruses worthy of an arena size sing-a-long. The Sum Of Who We Are is a perfect soundtrack to the last two years of struggle and triumph the band has endured, leaving the listener with a feeling that every single song is the most important song the band has ever written. The first single “Criminal” is a full on anthem, cleverly illustrating the trappings of circumstance in an exhausted relationship. Other songs like “Twisted Halos”, “Crooked Smiles”, “Rollercoaster", and “Crash & Burn”, have an honesty and underlying theme of finding beauty in the tragedy of loss, finding light in the total darkness and finding hope when there is nothing left.
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“There was definitely a dark period during the two years we spent recording this” states Nixon. “That’s not to say this album is some dark and brooding album. There are definitely some light-hearted tunes on here as well; some that are fun. This album is the past 2 years of our lives and is every part of our beings…that’s what the title means. This album really is the sum of who we are. The thing that I love most is, I think when the listener puts on those headphones, or puts the cd in the car, he or she is gonna listen and come to find out, hey, me and this guy have got some things in common!” The Sum Of Who We Are was funded entirely by the band’s loyal fan base by donating money via a Kickstarter campaign. “First and foremost, our incredible fans are the reason it's even possible” states Nixon. “They funded the entire thing on Kickstarter. That is still unbelievable to us. This record from start to finish is everything that we have in us. The ‘sum of who we are’ if you will. Order “The Sum Of Who We Are” from www.theOmegaOrder.com/FramingHadley
By K-Rock
B
ack in 2006 I was a pretty serious runner and one day I was looking for some music to keep me moving on long runs. I used the ITunes function that recommended other music I might like and was given the suggestion of a then independent artist from Canada called Art of Dying. I downloaded their self-titled album and it would essentially become the soundtrack for the marathon I was training for at the time. This was just the beginning of the love I would have for this band over the years.
Fast forward to 2011 when the band would release an amazing album called Vices and Virtues. This release was so strong and was the album that would cement the band’s status with me as a MARR (Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews) “must hear� band. As powerful as Vices and Virtues was, the news kept getting better as we started to see the band live on a regular basis. They are a live band that you do NOT want to miss if you have the opportunity. Continued on page 22 21
At this point in their career, the history of the band is pretty well documented, so rather than re-write that story for you, we thought we would take a slightly different approach to talking about the band. We put them on the cover of this issue for a lot of reasons. So the focus of this article will be to share the reasons why Art of Dying is a Rock and Roll Magazine “front cover band”. #1 These guys know how to write great songs. Does that sound too simple? Not really. Lots of bands put out albums and have cool riffs, great beats or good lyrics, but Art of Dying knows how truly write songs that are the complete package. Their music is solid from top to bottom.
#3 Art of Dying has one of the things I love the most in bands. That is the versatility to be able to perform their songs acoustically or plugged in. I think the strong song writing mentioned already is the reason for this, but despite their heavy sound, Art of Dying’s music translates very well into acoustic sets. In fact Johnny Hetherington, the band’s lead singer has featured a number of the band’s tunes on-line using just a piano and his own voice. 22
#2 Harmonies, harmonies, harmonies. I remember the first time I prepped for an interview with these guys that I had a bunch of questions for them about the singing. That is because the three part harmonies Art of Dying features in their music are incredible. This is not always a feat easily accomplished by heavier rock bands, but these guys nail it.
#4 Art of Dying is a fan-friendly band. No running and hiding back stage from these guys after shows. They are a band who I almost always see after shows hanging with fans, taking photos, signing merch. And generally having a good time with the fans who came to see them. I have never seen them look down their noses at fans seeking a picture or signature, and now that I have gotten to know them over the years, I can’t picture them not hanging out with their fans
#5 A great front man. Jonny Hetherington is one super cool front man. Jonny combines the ability to sing both the screamier heavier tunes with their more melodic tunes. He is a lively and energetic singer on stage who engages the crowd and displays a cool sense of humor on stage. Jonny is an energy charged lead vocalist who has that sort of presence on the stage, that captivates a crowd.
#6 They come from a special place in Canada where the water breeds musicians. Follow the family tree of this band so to speak and you will find that the area of Canada they hail from has produced a TON of great musicians. The band has ties to bands such as Three Days Grace, My Darkest Days and the “breed” of music coming out of their humble part of the world is indeed a pedigree.
While this list is by no means an all-inclusive list of every great aspect of Art of Dying, we think it provides enough evidence for you to understand why we felt they were worthy of the cover of this issue of Rock Voltage Magazine. We cannot begin to express how excited we are to hear new music from Art of Dying in 2014, and of course, we will be seeing them live on the road. We were fortunate to have sailed with the boys from Canada aboard Shiprocked in 2014 and cannot wait to see what they have up their sleeves next. If you’d like to see an interview we did with Jonny Hetherington on the beach during Shiprocked, check it out at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRh1oXZe9BI
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REVIEW
By: Christina Coy
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oods Of Arden come straight at you head on from Staten Island, New York with no gimmicks just pure rock! Upon first listen to their full-length album Candidate For Consumption you will know that these guys mean business. I was met with edgy guitar riffs, that really pack a punch. Every note on this album is played with heart and soul. "Wake The Dead" has a 90's metal feel that strikes a cord with the rocker in me. My ears loved the crunchy guitar, soaring vocals, smooth bass and drums that provide a backbone for the track "No Good". Musical tightness on "4 Letter Word" rumbles out of your speakers as the backdrop for singer Alex Kostov's scorching vocal assault. The tracks "You" and "New Decay" have a classic groove and hook that bonds together and explodes into a frenzy of pure rock. A feverish surprise can be heard on "Not Dreaming" the opening melodic guitar and
soulful vibe give way to a heavy hitting slow groove. With songs like "Inertia" , "On Fire" and "Phantom Limb" providing plenty of raw rock power, "Bury Me" delivers something a bit more. It has not only that raw rock n roll edge but a persistent undertone that begs to be heard loud and proud. Now let's talk about my personal favorite "Alone". From the opening this one had me. It showcases Woods Of Arden’s diverse sound, musical unity and the ability to bring it all together. Woods Of Arden are an explosion waiting to happen. From start to finish, Candidate For Consumption delivers non-stop rock with an attitude. With Alex Kostov on vocals, Mario Traina on guitars, Jordan Wolfson on bass and Michael Gambino on drums, you have a band that is ready to take on the world of rock. You can check out Woods Of Arden on Reverbnation at www.reverbnation.com/woodsofarden.
Tips from the Pros This month’s pro: Tim German, Manager Tim German is manager for "The Pure Zeppelin Experience" (Jupiter, Fla.) and "Korupt" (Baltimore, MD.) For those who don’t know all that a successful manager does, and for those who think they know, Tim sat down recently to reflect on just some of the many aspects of being a working agent and manager to professional rock bands. ell, first I must have full confidence in the band and it's members along with their musical talent and what they have to offer in respect to the genre of their music and their pro look and sound, but they must be able to separate themselves from all others and bring the energy in projecting great music and their visual persona while performing. This is paramount and very important to what we are putting out on the stages all across the country, and need I say, "TO THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE". My daily routine consists of, massive emails (in/out) needing to keep up with. Contacting and returning many, many calls in a day. Looking over the schedule and piecing all the puzzle together to keep a tour route within a strategic direction to cover the cities that contract the band and to make sure the route is not going from south to north then, east to west! Too much jumping around without direction in a schedule would only raise the cost of travel expense's that can be very expensive and non productive. Fuel costs vary weekly, so I must create a touring schedule that covers the ground in as straight a line as possible so things stay smooth but also, cost effective with covering the miles to each city. "Whew" believe me, that it is very tough
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to get a contract/performance fee/and dates that help me keep it working as smooth as possible with earning potential over top of cost. Here is a brief example; if gas was ten cents cheaper per gallon at a station 20 miles away, and you need to fill up, would you drive 40 miles round trip to save that ten cents? The answer to that is NO! Because you would be spending more money driving that 40 miles round trip than you would have just paid a few cents more at the station closer to you because you would have only burned a half gallon and saved more money plus, less time spent driving, wear and usage on your car etc. So, my point is, keep it as direct as possible and cost effective to save time, and in this business time is money! Less spent out equals more money in positive revenue for the band, expense's, rentals if needed, and the agent's percentage. Keep it cost effective and with higher earning potential and profit over cost! Simple Right? I think you get the point. "BOOKING" is very tough and sometimes you MUST be able to decline offers that could end up costing money, but exposure is what you seek for your act! Be smart, but be flexible where you can too. "ADVERTISE" I do advertising when needed, local publications, radio, local multi-media etc. will only help when performing in a new area or market. Also, ask the venue how they promote and advertise. They may have a contract month to month with any of the above and that will save you time, which again, 'Time Is Money". Use all available resources at their cost when possible because they already have the right connections. Provide the venue with posters/flyers and website information. You will be shocked at the
hits the website gets from people that are thinking about buying tickets to the show or, just general interest and wanting to see and hear a video as a teaser to what they will see at the show! This generates "INTEREST" which generates revenue! And the venue owner will be very pleased when he/she sees the proof in the form of cash from the night's performance, which in some cases, will end up as a little added extra bonus money because they did really well that night and most important 'VERY PLEASED" which ultimately means? "RETURN BOOKING" which means two things; potential to increase performance fee without question and, you have now created a venue to contact again with great earning potential for the artist/agent etc. but, you have started a business friendship that will create more earning potential for some time to come and REPEAT BUSINESS!
Important! Make sure you have GPS or MAPQUEST from show to show or city to city pre-programmed to save you from wrong turns which cost valuable time and frustration! Preplan and stick to the route. Time getting lost costs fuel and burns money out of your deposit money to make the trip! "TIME IS MONEY"! PS, Always have a list of music stores should you need to replace any equipment, instruments, strings, sticks, etc. It's better to be prepared than asking someone on the street where to find the store! "STAY PREPARED" for anything to happen! Always have a backup plan! I hope these few things I've shared about the world of an agent/tour manager's duties and responsibilities are helpful. However, this barely scratched the surface on the duties, strategies and smart business practice's and ethics entail.
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REVIEW
By Christina Coy
I
t was a quiet Sunday morning, until I decided it was time to check out From The Ashes of Man by Drill 187. My quiet morning was quickly invaded by assaultive drums, powerful vocals, and searing guitars. I had found my happy place. This is one EP that punches, kicks, and screams right from the first track and you are happy to take the abuse.
vocals, and guitars that only intensify as you listen is sure to become a fan favorite. Songs such as "Crush" and "More Than Man" will make you remember what real metal sounds like. The blasting punch to the face that "Hate Smiles" delivers left me breathless and wanting more. The calming beauty of "Wake" slows your feverish heart down then pulls you into a melodic sanctuary of guitars and sing-a long lyrics.
us o r e d Thun , melodic drums , a bass s g u i t a r at takes th hook t o t h e you .. edge.
Drill 187 comes from Raleigh, NC and they are newly reformed. They have had success before and are quickly rising again. Drill 187 is currently signed with Turkey Vulture Records and armed with a sound all their own. They have the ability to draw in metal lovers of all ages while giving you intense music that will melt your speakers.
All six songs on this EP are powerful, crunchy, and scorching. The song "Crucified" is a rockers dream. Heavy, head banging drums, Jason Lilley's powerhouse
One song really stands out to me on this EP. Drill 187 manages to bring everything I love about metal into one song. "Rise" is that song. Thunderous drums, melodic guitars, a bass hook that takes you to the edge and vocals that rip into your ears and make your brain smile. If you are looking for bone crushing metal at its finest "Rise" is all you need.
Drill 187 are very fan friendly and can be found on Facebook as well as Reverbnation. Go check them out as soon as you can. You will not be disappointed. From The Ashes of Man ranks high on my must have list. Fierce and hard hitting it should be in every metal lovers collection. 29
NEW ALBUM
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ansas City hard rock powerhouse Cimino have been plying their wares around the Midwestern United States for the past seven years, playing shows from South Dakota to Missouri and from Kansas to Illinois. Within that time the band has put out three albums on their own, the latest of which,Angels & Animals, was released at the tail end of 2013 to a local audience in Kansas City and, digitally, via iTunes. Forming in 2007, frontman and band namesake Kyle Cimino and drummer Sebastian Anderson had been playing together in the 80's hair metal tribute, Baloney Ponyz when they decided they needed to form an original project together. They were both only 15 at the time. The band quickly built a strong local following. "For being 15, the music that Kyle was writing was incredible, well beyond his years to say the least," reflects Anderson. "It wasn't just me
who noticed that - everyone and anyone with ears saw the talent that was there. Because of that we had the backbone. We had that product that nobody else did, even at that age, we also had the same goal in life: to be 'Bon Jovi Big.'" Angels & Animals kicks off with the bluesy hard rocker, "Anarchy" which slides swiftly into the anthemic "Start All Over," which, as Kyle puts it, "is a song about relapsing. It's the desire that lingers in your heart for whatever your poison may be, despite what others say or think." Lustful at it's core, "Animal" is about sexual tension and primal urges. "Basically girls with daddy problems!" offers the frontman. The up tempo ballad "Alive" is a reflection of friendship. "It's about finding the light in each day and being thankful for the life you have," says Cimino. "It doesn't matter where you are or where you end up, as long as you're with the ones you love." 31
REVIEW
By Christina Coy
I
f you were to take a pot and throw some rock n roll in it and sprinkle with cinnamon and spice you would have Mach22's new album Sweet Talk Intervention. This album from start to finish delivers pure adrenaline driven ear candy. With edgy riffs, smooth vocals and gritty grooves this album takes on a life of its own. Mach22 bring what is best about Philadelphia rock to the front and they showcase it well. Damian Montecarlo on drums shines during "I'm Just a Man" from the opening beats to the feverish ending he keeps you bouncing. Jaron Gulino on bass helps tie it all together and brings about a "take it or leave it" attitude that can be felt throughout the song. The band brings the attitude down a notch with "Stone Rose", a gritty ballad that features a fantastic guitar solo by Sebastian Lebar. "Made To Love" opens up with a catchy guitar riff that propels you into full groove movement with Lamont Caldwell's smooth and rich vocals. Top 32
that off with sweet sugar coated guitar candy from Ted Merrill and Lebar and you are left trying to ease the ache in your teeth from wanting more. "One Trick Pony" brings you into a safety zone full of guitars with a grooving bass line then it drops you off at the corner of "bad ass" and "smooth sailing." I was thrown into a frenzy to turn up "Go Ahead". Thunderous drums, those crunchy guitar riffs, the deep bass undertones and Lamont's attitude bearing vocals push this song straight into your gut with a punch. Following along the same punchy, frenzy is "Radio" with a hook that had me singing long after the song was over. I fell under the spell of "Constant Denier" as soon as I pressed play. My ears were smiling. The sound of a guitar loud and proud giving way to Montecarlo's attack on the drums sent my brain into rock n roll bliss. Coming at you fast and furious is "Backslider". There was no escaping this heavy hitter. Long after the song is over you are still
reeling from the monster guitars and vocals that can only be described as adrenaline overload. The last track on the album is "Nevermind". A brilliant ending to an exceptionally well rounded debut album. There is still one song I have not mentioned yet! I have saved my favorite for last. "Don't You Give Me" was the cherry on top for me. I listened once and instantly hit replay. After a few plays I found myself moving in my chair and singing along. The whole feel of this song has a get down and dirty attitude. I do believe this song brings out the best in Mach22. They managed to take everything that Rock should sound like and throw it into one song and then served it up on a silver platter. Overall Sweet Talk Intervention is a trip into a rock lovers dream and you will not want to wake up. Go pick this one up today ,then go find these guys out on the road. It's a treat that you will want to taste over and over 33
B
lacklist Union featuring Tony West is a hard rock band with a combination of melodic hooks, infection riffs, and heart-felt lyrics that tell the story of life, death, love, loss and redemption. Tony West grew up on the streets of Hollywood as he ran away from his childhood home in New York after spending the first 13 years of his life with an abusive father. From celebrity relationships (including a brief marriage to Carol Brunett’s daughter Erin Hamilton) to appearing in gossip magazines (National Enquirer) to being banned from talk shows (Jerry Springer, Court TV), Tony has already lived the life of a rock star.
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He formed the band in 2004 and now back with their third full length CD Til’ Death Do US Part which on September 10th, 2013 finally so it’s physical release in stores (originally came out digitally). The 11 songs have guest appearance by members of Saliva, Danzing, Iggy & The Stooges. As the band gets ready to celebrate their 10th anniversary, Tony is already prepping for their 4th CD.
facebook.com/BlacklistUnionRocks twitter.com/blacklistunion reverbnation.com/blacklistunion youtube.com/blacklistunionrocks
by: David Schroeder
M
y initial reaction to Varga's Enter the Metal was like that of an old friend coming back into your life and kicking the crap out you... in a good way as only a friend could. Varga has killer riffs, fast and furious lead breaks, tight musicianship, strong vocals, classic and sometimes quirky lyrics,
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great production, and well, just kick ass metal. What more do you need? Varga's sound reminds me classic heavy bands from the 70's like Black Sabbath, and Blue Oyster Cult blending with old school thrash and speed metal. These guys have been around for quite a while, first forming all the way back in 1989 and reforming with the original line up in 2011 after a 17-year hiatus. Their experience and musical maturity shows in their playing and influences. Joe Varga on bass and vocals with Dan Fila on drums make up the pummeling rhythm section, while Sean Willamson and Adam Alex lay down the riffs, chops, and leads that are sprayed throughout this album. We should of course mention in this issue of RockVoltage: they're Canadian... you know, the Great White North, where legends like Rush and Voivod were born!
REVIEW
You know you're in for a full on metal assault when the first thing you hear is the J. Robert Oppenheimer quote "Now I am become death, the destroyer of worlds" as the first track "Beginning of the End" kicks this album off to a great start. The often used theme of nuclear war will never grow old for metal bands, and Varga does a great job telling their own take on the deadly story. The five remaining tracks continue the metal annihilation. "Gamera" is like the companion track to BOC's "Godzilla" and tell the tale of the monster turtle. Many of Varga's lyrics are kind of tongue in cheek and just fun. It's not all serious, deep thinking, psychological, heavy topic stuff, which is a nice change. Its music to just thrash out to and enjoy. "Mad Scientist" begins with a thunderstorm before the lightning riffs and grooves take over, and the lyrics divulge the tale of a crazed chemist mixing an
explosive combination of materials. "Plane Crash" has many twists and turns like the wreckage they sing about. There is some insane playing on this track and the band is locked in on each other. Buckle up for this ride! Pollution is the theme for "No More Clean Air" as the band spews out a thick cloud of toxic metal. The album closer "Shark Attack" supplies more of the same amazing playing that preceded it. If you don't find yourself head banging and thrashing about through this entire album, you better check your pulse because you may be dead.
The 6 songs in total clock in at around 40 minutes but damn does it go by fast! On the credits the band mentions: Deep Purple, King Crimson, Anvil, Iron Maiden, Kiss, Slayer, Merciful Fate, Death Angel, Dream Theater (to name a few on their list) as inspiration, and it's easy to hear; but, also anyone into early Annihilator, early Exodus, and just damn good metal will love Enter The Metal. I DO! For more info on the band, to hear some of the tracks, and to order the cd or digital files go to vargahq.com. Also be on the lookout for their up coming release Return Of The Metal. It's already on my must have list. 37
Kickin Cancer’s Ass Rock Voltage Magazine contributor Christina Coy is more than just a Cancer survivor. She is a Cancer warrior who battles the disease in a way that inspires the world. Her inspirational posts on-line are done with a fighting spirit that not only helps her in her battle, but inspires others engaged in the fight all over the world. Christina posts a “Kicking Cancers Ass” song of the day on line, and we asked her to share some of her favorite fighting tunes with the readers of Rock Voltage. Here is what she sent us:
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elcome to my first "Kicking Cancer's Ass" top 10 playlist! Narrowing this list to ten was tougher than I thought. When I started my cancer journey I knew I needed something to give me an extra push, something I could get lost in. I turned to music. Through music I have plowed through some pretty rough and tough moments. The songs I have picked for this list all give me a feeling of wanting to step into the ring another day and fight. Music heals, music inspires, and music moves you in the direction you need to go. As my journey continues music will be there driving me pushing me and lifting me. A little note to the bands on this list: Thank you! Thank you for sharing your music. Your songs have become the soundtrack to my life and as I move forward fighting your music will remain with me giving me inspiration to fight another day.
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By K-rock and Christina Coy 1.) "Focus & Breathe" Ropetree 2.) "Not Like You” True Becoming 3.) "No More Clean Air" Varga 4.) "Don't Take Heaven Away From Me" Station 5.) "Sky High" Small Town Titans 6.) "I Am Ready" Frank Palangi 7.) "New American Dream" Saints Of Rebellion 8.) "Pull Me Under" Cyanide Saints 9.) "We're alright" King Belvedere 10.)"Get Thru This" Art of Dying
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t has been nearly 16 years of bliss, Royal Bliss that is. Royal Bliss is modern rock with equal parts beauty and tragedy. The new album Chasing The Sun, out February 18th 2014, is a bold statement for Royal Bliss. Peaking at #5 on the iTunes rock charts and already getting rave reviews, “This album makes me weak in the knees. Chasing The Sun is quite simply a stunner – a beautifully crafted, heart-ripping, chest-thumping, ass-kicking stack of rock – classic rock, hard rock, modern rock, all of that good stuff. The entire album is rippling with amazing vocals, brawny riffs, killer drums, and lyrics that cut right through the pre-fab bullshit and into some serious heartand-soul territory.” –HardRockNights.com Hailing from Salt Lake City, Royal Bliss started in a basement as a few kids who had a passion for music and a drive to succeed. Striving to further their own abilities while building their fan base at the same time was always the ultimate goal. The music has been a message to those who listened, evolving every step of the way. From the early days when the lyrics echoed that of a late night frat party, to the
deep, meaningful, and sometimes cries for help, the process of evolution is undeniable. Royal Bliss has been making their mark across the country for years now. Constant writing, recording, and touring have helped build the success of the band. The wide variety of influences from Johnny Cash to Snoop Dog to Led Zeppelin and the Toadies with everything in between has melded a sound that cannot be denied. Since their debut Royal Bliss’ music is played across the country on the most popular Rock radio stations, and has been in heavy rotation ever since. Touring with acts such as Buckcherry, Candlebox, Chevelle, Kid Rock, and Papa Roach has only increased the demand for the dynamic band from Utah. From the onstage antics of front man Neal Middleton, to the energetic live shows, Royal Bliss continues to win fans over…all over the globe. Royal Bliss is touring all through 2014 in support of their new record Chasing the Sun and looking to head overseas for the first time. Check the tour dates page at www.royalbliss.com 39
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MARR ROCKS FOR MDA II
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“Changing The World Through Rock and Roll” by K-Rock and Ms. MARR
n March 8, 2014, Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews (otherwise known as MARR) hosted our second annual concert to benefit the MDA. The original idea for the festival was the vision of Jay Hitaffer, who is currently the bass player in the brand new band “Saints of Rebellion”. Jay came to MARR with the idea of taking MARR’s vision of “Changing The World Through Rock and Roll” to a new level by hosting a concert. In the first year of the festival, Jay’s father would actually lead the way and facilitate the donation of the venue for the first MARR Rocks for MDA benefit. We were devastated to have lost Jay’s dad this past year as he finally succumbed to his battle with cancer, but Jay and
his Dad’s vision lived on and MARR Rocks for MDA II was held.
This year the event was held in Delaware and graciously hosted by the great people at JB McGinnes Pub. This is a venue we frequent regularly and was the ideal geographic location to bring bands from Baltimore, Philadelphia and York, PA together. MARR staffers Krock and Ms. MARR thought very carefully about the lineup and hand picked some of the best regional (and now national) acts that are truly bands on the rise. Three Philadelphia bands made the list in Hammer Down, Cyanide Saints and MACH 22. They selected one of the premier live bands in the region in Small Town Titans from York, PA to pull fans from the central PA area and beyond. Next they would add Baltimore rockers Silvertung, who MARR had recently nominated as a Golden Horns Award nominee for Album of the Year with their release Devil’s in the Details. However, there would be one more great band to perform. Jay Hitaffer’s brand new band Saints of
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Rebellion would make MARR Rocks for MDA II the setting for their first live show ever! The evening was a huge success as fans arrived early and stayed late to see all of the bands, and by the end of the night, MARR had raised over $3700 for the MDA.
However this show was about more than just raising money, It was about the MARR family coming together to see these amazing bands, support each other and support a great cause. The tradition of MARR awarding a MARR Rock Hero Award continued as this year the MARR staff recognized a young lady named Christina who inspires a countless number of people through her “Kicking Cancers Ass� songs of the day, as well as through her many inspirational writings. 42
As weeks have passed since this amazing event occurred, we have been thrilled with the feedback from the venue, the bands and the fans in attendance. Several of the bands have voiced an interest in returning to JB McGinnes for future shows. A number of fans in attendance have expressed gratitude to us for putting together a show with bands from different cities, which enabled many fans to have the opportunity to see some great new bands for the first time. Band members have expressed gratitude in having the opportunity to network with bands from other cities that may not have otherwise been placed on the same bill for shows. These are all incredible outcomes in addition to the obvious goal of raising funds for a very worthy charity.
What this benefit meant can best be summed up by the words of a very dear friend to MARR, who was the inspiration for selecting the MDA as the charity to sponsor. Our friend Lora and her family has been personally affected by MDA and came out together to support this event. In a correspondence the day after the concert, she summarized what this special event meant better than a simple description could do justice to in this post she shared on Facebook:
I've already said it a few times today but I am very grateful for the last 24 hrs. We don't do a lot with AJ to bring attention to him, we don't make special vacation plans that are just because of him and we never ask for help (because we're stubborn) but when total strangers to us are willing to donate their time to
benefit the MDA and shows support to a shy, quiet kid who doesn't like being different, that is a priceless moment for us. We got to experience that last night with our long-time friends who make up the dynamic duo of Mid-Atlantic Rock Reviews and the bands that performed last night: Hammer Down, Silvertung, Small Town Titans, MACH22, Saints of Rebellion and Cyanide Saints. I wish I had thought to get pictures of AJ with each of these guys but just being able to thank them for their time and generosity was great! We will always be indebted to each of them and to the Hitaffer Brothers Jay, Anthony and Kemo) for always checking up on AJ and seeing how he is doing! So, congratulations to a well done concert and a great big thank you to all the people who came out to enjoy the music! We also want to thank JB Guinness Pub and Grille for hosting the event! This regular old PTA mom stepped outside her comfort zone and had a great time! I think we need a rock anthem written for AJ! The crew at MARR would like to thank the bands who played, JB McGinnes Pub, all of the volunteers, the many bands who donated items, all of those who attended and any of the many others who played any part in making this dream come true. You all have truly helped us to “Change The World Through Rock and Roll�. We look forward to hosting MARR Rocks for MDA III at a date, time and location to be announced. - K-Rock and Ms. MARR
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By Tim German
I
n early 2011, the search to put together an incredible group of musicians to bring to life the best Led Zeppelin Tribute Band began. The vision is that of the founder "Mr. Gary Renshaw". Gary is a native Maryland drummer who finished high school and dreamed of making his musical dreams come true back in 1984. Gary was discovered by founding member and lead guitarist Mr. Dave Hluebeck, of legendary southern rock giants "Molly Hatchet". Mr. Renshaw then went on to perform and record with many members of world famous bands in the music business such as, former member/drummer of heavy metal masters "W.A.S.P." Mr. Stet Howland (W.A.S.P/Blackfoot/Lita Ford), Rickey Medlocke (Blackfoot/Lynyrd Skynyrd), Bryce 44
Barnes (Blackfoot/Edwin Dare), Brian Howe (Bad Company) and more than I can recall at this moment, but I think you get the point about this mans history. Next member that was picked was a very amazing and well sought out lead guitarist and recording sessions player in the industry Mr. Keith Reynaldo (Jimmy Page). Keith was still living in Los Angeles, so it was a very long trek and journey to find and convince him to join such a project across the country in southern florida. However, Keith has long been compared as a Jimmy Page type performer, so he has always wanted to perform in a zeppelin tribute band but never found the right musicians until now! Mr. Reynaldo grew up on the legendary "Sunset Strip" in California throughout the glory days of rock and roll. He is known to the locals as a kid of 17yrs. old playing every night in some of the most popular rock clubs on the strip! Keith cut his teeth and was well
ARTIST PROFILE known and respected by some of the world’s greatest rock and roll performers and bands and has a personal friendship with guitar god Eddie Van Halen and several more to speak of! Mr. Reynaldo was hand picked by the punk rock icon Billy Idol to replace guitar god Steve Stevens in his band! Keith was a member of Billy Idol's band for several years and has toured the world as his lead guitarist. Sad but true, but Steve Stevens returned to the band and Keith's days and his role were cut clean, but he and Billy still remain in touch at times and remain very good friends to this day. You know what they say; one man's loss is another man's gain. Good for us that his destiny led him to us. Keith has been voted #1 Jimmy Page Tribute Performer in the business for 2013 and hopefully more to come. Not only does he play and perform note for note of zeppelin tunes, he also wears authentic Page concert outfits and stage costumes along with all the signature stage persona and movements that tricks your brain into thinking you’re actually watching Jimmy Page before your very eyes and ears! He is a must see & hear musician. Hey, don't take my word for it; watch a few videos online and you will soon agree for yourself! We are happy to announce that Keith believes in this band so strongly that he has packed up all his belongings and now lives full time with the guys in sunny southwest Florida. Mr. Gregg Baldwin (John Paul Jones) is well known and respected for his professional musical experience. Gregg is a graduate of the very prestigious Juillard Institute Of Music. He has mastered several instruments, which he performs effortlessly. Gregg performs many shows a year at Walt Disney World's, Universal Studios and he has performed hundreds of shows as John Paul Jones. He has many of the very same instruments that JPJ used while recording all his tracks with Zeppelin, which is why he nails everything note for note with absolute ease. Not to mention, he owns many exact replica costumes and stage outfits to totally recreate his role as JPJ. Gregg is probably one of the most talented musicians I have
ever had the pleasure to work with! Last, but certainly not least, our Robert Plant is Mr. Gary Ireland. Gary has been in the tribute business for some years and he has been voted #1 Robert Plant Tribute Performer! Gary owns and operates his own business and has had great success for many years. Where do I begin to explain the talent of this amazing frontman? He has studied and mastered his role as Robert Plant, and is the driving force that takes you on a mind freak journey into believing as the others do, into tricking your mind and ears that you are actually watching "The Mighty Zeppelin" themselves. Mr. Ireland also performs his role down to the smallest details and signature moves that Robert Plant and the very hardcore zeppelin fanatic would appreciate and approve of. This man is a true performer, down to using a very believable English accent while speaking to the audience between songs. Not to mention, he is a very attractive man who is easy upon the eyes. What really separates this band from all the others? This band invests its performances and talents into a Vegas style production and show. They use a large movie screen to open the show with vintage videos of Led Zeppelin that takes you on a brief journey and history while the venue is still under blackout condition. Then from out of the darkness comes the opening of the show and the lights come up and before your eyes they appear in full force to begin your journey for the next two hours. This band has performed to many sold-out theatres, pavilions, amphitheaters etc. across the United States. Relive the glory days of the worlds most popular rock and roll band of our generation. You must see & hear this amazing band of world touring professional musicians. You will thank yourself again and again. Welcome to the #1 Led Zeppelin National Touring Tribute Band In The U.S!!! This is...... "The Pure Zeppelin Experience" Let your journey begin......
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B
rick + Mortar is a two-piece indie pop outfit from Asbury Park, NJ. The duo consists of Brandon Asraf (guitars/ vocals/programming) and John Tacon (drums/programming). Best described as controlled chaos, the band combines choppy rhythms, smooth bass lines, tempestuous drumming and honest lyrics, all of which culminates in something that is just as likely to show up on an indie up-and-comers list as it is to show up on a DJ’s playlist – something that is evidenced in the band’s role as a remix magnet for artists such as Baauer. Brick + Mortar is one of the few bands who can conjure up images of both carousels and cocaine, combining dancy with dark and pop with despair.
Speaking in an article with VICE Magazine, Asraf says of their most recent music video for Bangs, “The story is my chance to be in [my father's] world and tell a conglomerate of a bunch of stories I’ve heard.” The result is a gripping video reflective not only of Asraf’s father’s violent past as an international fugitive, but also of the sometimes ominous and abrasive tone of the new EP. Coming off of the release of their EP, BANGS, Brick + Mortar is touring relentlessly, opening for Imagine Dragons, Icona Pop, and Jimmy Eat World, as well as performing in the summer festival circuit at mainstays including Made in America, Loufest, and Lollapalooza.
1341 West Liberty Road, Sykesville, MD 21784