Pennsylvania Musician Magazine May 2015

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

3

May , 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

5

6

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

OUT & ABOUT

by RACHEL ROCKS! I’m in shock that April is over and it’s time to write another article. I swear life just keeps flying by faster and faster by the minute! This is one of the months when I was thinking, Hmm.. It’s time to write my article and I didn’t even see any bands this month. Time is such a blur and my life is so hectic it’s hard to mentally remember what I did each day, let alone for the last 4 weeks. I surprised myself when I popped in my memory card and realized I did manage to see 11 different bands this month. I’m glad I take pictures of everywhere I go, or I would seriously have no idea.

My month started out on a Thursday night at Arooga’s Downtown. I rarely go downtown, but I was at Arooga’s for our Kickball Kick-Off meeting. If you think your life is already crazy, just add one more element, Adult Kickball!! I am having a blast playing with my team, “We’ll Kick Your Balls”. We are part of the recess league for Kickball365. There are some serious teams, and we are definitely not one of them! It was awesome that it worked out that during our meeting, Arooga’s also had some Live Acoustic music, Rhyne McCormick and Wally DeWall. Arooga’s was packed, even tho we were all busy getting to know each other, it was great having the live music in the background.

Rhyne and Wally did a great job playing some favorite sing-a-longs, and you could quickly see and hear how many people were following the music as they started dancing or singing along. I’ve bumped into Rhyne a couple times throughout the years and it was great hearing him play once again. I’ve never heard Wally before, but I loved his song choices as well. Rhyne and Wally kept switching off and on, keeping the music fresh and fun all night long.

My next night out was a new one for me, with a fun trip to the Harrisburg Comedy Zone, now officially known as Boomerang Bar and Grill. It’s open once again under new ownership with some amazing renovations too. My friend Lana and I thoroughly

May, 2015

enjoyed ourselves and definitely had a few good laughs.

The opener of the night was a local comedian, Shane Gillis. When people are cracking up for the opener, chances are it’s going to be a great show. David Beck came to town from Missouri. He had us laughing so hard it was sad to see him go, we really didn’t think the headliner, Tim Kidd, could do any better, but boy were we wrong! The only problem with the comedy shows is that they are too short! I was surprised at how fast the night went! All of their shows start at 8pm and our first come first served seating, even tho you can order tickets in advance. If you need a good laugh I highly suggest headin’ out to Boomerang Bar and Grill for a great night out on the town.

The show was over early enough I still had some time to head out and support live music. I decided to head on down to The Fieldhouse for Fierce. It was Mary’s birthday and her friends were out in full force to help her celebrate! The room was packed and the dance floor was insane! Fierce does a great job at playing all of your party favorites, but they can also head down into the Blues. They headed so far into the Blues that Elvis made “his” way to the stage! After Elvis sang a couple songs, Jerri also took a break from behind the kit to come out and take lead on the mic. It gave Marti a nice break and then she came out and killed it on lead vocals like she always does. Fierce definitely has a great following that comes out every night ready to dance the night away! I love seeing people constantly on the dance floor even when they hardly have a dance floor to dance on! If you want a night on the town to dance, and let off some steam, Fierce is the band for you! Check out their

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

schedule in this issue and get out there and have a good time.

The following weekend I headed to Double K because Steel was back! Everyone knows how much I love Steel, even my hubby. I was sound asleep and he attempted to wake me up three times, the third time he said, “Get your butt out of bed and get out to see Steel, because if you miss their show I’ll hear about it for days!” He’s probably right! Needless to say I drug myself out of bed, threw on my hat, and headed out. I’m so glad I did! It was great rocking out with my friends and having another great night out and about with Steel.

These guys are not just another local band, they are practically family!

Speaking of Steel, they will be playing at a very important benefit on May 24th for the one and only Randy Robertson, aka ‘Rockin’ Randy’, or the Triple continued on pg 1 0 ...

9

Out & About continued....

Guitar guy to others. For me, he’s also the amazing door salesman. Randy is battling bile duct cancer and has to have extensive surgery in a couple of days. He’s been unable to work and will be off work for a while to fight this horrible disease and to recover. His family needs our help! The benefit is going to be a full day of amazing entertainment, held at the McSherrystown Moose Park at 100 Moose Rd., Gettysburg, PA. It’s called “Krankin’ for the King” Steel will be Krankin’ along with other amazing bands: Penntera, Smokin’ Gunnz, Single Barrel,Voodoo, and a few others. Check out the ad in this issue for all of the details. It’s Memorial Day weekend so a lot of us have off work on Monday. Come on out and party with us for a great cause! We love you Randy!

The next night out was a super special one, watching Take 147 opening for Mary Lambert at the Whitaker Center with my Mom, Robin. Tim Louie from SLP

Concerts hooked Mom and I up with a pair of last minute tickets to enjoy the show. I honestly didn’t even know who Mary Lambert was, but I was excited to see Take 147 on a nice, big stage. It was fun watching their Facebook page throughout the day, talking about their nerves, and seeing all of the behind the scenes pictures.

Once the ladies hit the stage, they did what they do best, rocked the crowd away, and turning them into “Takers.”

It was awesome to see the people buying their merch and getting them to sign autographs. As you can tell I’m so proud of Take 147. It was also Mom Rocks’s first show, and she’s officially been “Taken.”

When we went back in for Mary Lambert I was already very excited when I saw Mary’s grand piano and Tim’s acoustic guitar. It was a very intimate show. It matched perfectly with Mary Lambert’s latest release, “Heart on My Sleeve.” All of her songs are filled with so much emotion. She also told amazing stories about her life and her songs that really hit home. It was awesome and refreshing to hear someone be so open and

honest about their life. Tim, her guitar player, has been her friend for quite a few years. Needless to say, they’ve been through a lot together, and we heard quite a few interesting stories. When Mary sang her song “Secrets” Mom and I both looked at each other and said, “I didn’t know she sang THIS song!” We were singing along and thoroughly enjoying the show. It was a great show and I’m so glad people like Stan Levinstone and crew of SLP Concerts still take their time to present such awesome acts to the area for us to enjoy. Check out SLP Concerts’ ad in this issue to see which big acts will be coming to your town next!

I had to deliver some magazines to Gullifty’s for Bridge Street, so I had some time and energy to swing in and listen to a few songs of Take 147. It was great to see a full crowd in Gullifty’s. Take 147 will be taking their Takers to Tubby’s on May 16th where they will be opening for Kix along with Voodoo and Dirty Cheap.

That is a show you don’t want to miss! Check out all of their ads in this issue for more info. continued on next page ...

Keith Hummel doing sound at Double K

10

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

Out & About continued....

My next night out on the town was a long one. It all started off back at Gullifty’s for one of our newer advertisers, The Happenstance Band. These two guys, Jordon Reese and Rich Johnson pull off an amazing show with only Rich on an electric guitar, and Jordon on lead vocals. They also have some other tracks for back-up. They play everything from the classics all the way up to modern Rock N’ Roll! I was amazed at what these two guys can do. Check out their ad in this issue to see where they will be rockin’ next!

After their show, Blakkout took the stage. Blakkout has been working their way onto area stages by opening for many great local bands. It was great to see them get their chance of headlining a show at a great venue like Gullifty’s. Jheri does a great job belting out all of your favorite classic hard rock music. Marty, on bass, has amazing stage presence, he is all over the place! James does a great job behind the kit keeping everyone on point. As always it’s great seeing Bill Burns on the stage. He supports tons of other local bands every chance he gets. It’s great seeing him get his chance to shine! Be sure to catch a Blakkout show when they come to your area.

My night wasn’t over yet, I decided to make one more quick stop over the hill at The Brewhouse for Save the City. I love checking these guys out. Jason’s voice is so distinctive, it’s always a pleasure to listen to. Plus it helps the entire band are all great musicians, so they are a tight band with a nice clear sound. Check them out for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

The following weekend I headed to Double K for Nacho Daddy. These guys are only a 3-piece but they can definitely hold their own. They play a great variety of all your favorite classic rock and alternative rock n’ roll songs. Jeff does a great job holding down the lead vocals and playing the bass. He even switches it up at times for a calmer, more acoustic style part of their show and he plays the acoustic guitar. Terry sticks to the guitar all night but he definitely knows how to play it!

Scott not only keeps the band on track behind the kit, but he also helps out with some vocal harmonies. Nacho Daddy has been working hard making their way into the music scene, one gig at a time. Book them at your venue for a fun night of Rock N’ Roll.

My last band I experienced for the month was Ebenezer Screw at Double K. It was awesome to see John O’Connor back behind the kit! Finally the classic Screw line up is back together! It’s been four long years since the guys were all together. They played like they never were apart, everything was so spot on and sounded so great! Now that they are all back together, they hope to be playing together a lot more. They might’ve sounded so great because the one and only Keith Hummel was working the sound board. Keith wrote for the magazine for way more years than I have and he’s a great friend of Mom and Dad’s, in fact he STILL delivers magazines for us. It was great watching him work and appreciating the great sounds blasting through the speakers. I’m sure my path will cross with these guys again.

Well that’s all for this month. Make sure and peruse the pages and get out there and support LIVE, LOCAL, MUSIC! The decks are opening the festivals are beginning and music is EVERYWHERE!! Get out there and enjoy every minute. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to e-mail me at RachelRocks@pamusician.net. I’d love to hear from you. Please make sure and check out our website, www.pamusician.net, for a lot more Hot Shots in color and you can also check out our digital issue online.

ENJOY!

www.pamusician.net May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

11

NATIONALS

Greetings Rockers ‘N’ Rollers!

Last month, street punks

By Eric Hoffman The Virus played a special show close to home at York’s Skid Row Garage. The band originally formed in Philadelphia in 1998 and has recently reformed in 2013. An incredible atmosphere of Punk rock camaraderie in a garage with one common bond, the passion of punk rock music. The Bad Engrish, Who Killed Spikey Jacket? and Olde Tigers finished the bill. The Virus are currently on tour with 16 shows in Europe. Their “European Campaign 2015 Tour” concludes this month in Russia.

Manchester, England’s The Ting Tings brought their “Super Critical Tour” to America this past month. The synthpop musical duo, consisting of Katie White and Jules De Martino played Washington DC’s 9:30 Club on April 11. The Ting Tings are most recognized for their hit “That’s Not My Name,” but also rocked “Shut Up and Let Me Go” and their latest single, “Wrong Club.”

Their third studio album, “Super Critical”, w a s released this past October.

So far, Hershey has announced 16 concerts for the Summer of 2015.

Hersheypark Stadium includes: Florida Georgia Line May 2. Jason Aldean May 30. Train June 11.

MixTape Festival: New Kids On The Block, TLC, Nelly, Salt N Pepa, Sugar Ray, The Ting Tings Vanilla Ice June 27. Shawn Mendes June 28. Kelly Clarkson July 11. Ariana Grande July 26. Nickelback Aug 8. Country Rock & Rewind Festival: Rascal Flatts, Rick Springfield, The Romantics Aug 22. Van Halen Aug 23. 5 Seconds of Summer Aug 29. Hershey Giant Center includes: Daryl Hall & John Oates May 4. Fall Out Boy July 3.

James Taylor July 9. Motley Crue Aug 11. Lady Antebellum Aug 14.

Green Day was inducted into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame on April 18 along with Ringo Starr, the Beatles’ drummer going in as a solo artist, underground-icon Lou Reed, Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, soul singer-songwriter Bill Withers, guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble, The Paul Butterfield Blues Band and The “5’’ Royales. From the opening power chords of “American Idiot,” Green Day had the crowd at Cleveland’s Public Hall dancing in the aisles and their acceptance speech thanked “the hundreds of people who let us sleep on their floors.”

Fall Out Boy presented Green Day, Patti Smith inducted Lou Reed, Miley Cyrus inducted Joan Jett, John Mayer inducted Stevie Ray Vaughan and Paul McCartney inducted Ringo Starr. HBO will broadcast the event on May 30.

The Killers’ frontman Brandon Flowers announced a U.S. headline tour to go along with his second solo album, “The Desired Effect..” The routing includes gigs at Washington DC’s Echostage on July 29 and Philadelphia’s Electric Factory on July 30. “The Desired Effect” is set for release May 19 via Island Records.

An old metal factory is transforming into The Fillmore Philadelphia. A new 2,500capacity venue in the city’s Fishtown neighborhood. “The Fillmore Philadelphia will feature the best sound system of any club its size, unparalleled sightlines, and remarkable food and beverage, making it more than a place for a concert,” says Ron continued on next page ...

Gordy of Bad Engrish and Paul of The Virus with Eric 12

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

NATIONALS continued...

Steven Tyler of Aerosmith made an appearance at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House with Eric Paslay to announce the release of his upcoming country album.

“Rolling Stone” points out that the news isn’t too shocking, seeing as how Tyler has recently been teaming up with country stars, Brad Paisley, Jana Kramer and Carrie Underwood. Tyler has been working with songwriters since moving to Nashville in January. The upcoming LP marks his first solo album.

The Rolling Stones announced there will be only 15 dates for the band’s “Zip Code Tour,” this Summer.

Mick Jagger stated, “We are excited to be back in North America playing stadiums this summer! We are looking forward to being back on stage and playing your favorite songs.” Keith Richards commented, “We love being out on the road and it is great to come back to North America! I can’t wait to get back on the stage!”

The Rolling Stones play Heinz Field in Pittsburgh on June 20.

Van Halen revealed dates for their first North American tour since 2012. The trek is made up of nearly 40 shows, with a gig at Hersheypark Stadium on Aug 23. Van Halen recently released their first-ever live album featuring singer David Lee Roth on March 31.

Featuring 23 songs from all seven of the band’s albums with Roth, “Tokyo Dome Live In Concert” was recorded June 21, 2013.

UPCOMING CONCERTS: Crocodiles Philadelphia Kung Fu Necktie May 1. Godsmack Reading Santander Arena May 2. The Bluebonnets Harrisburg HMAC May 2. Daryl Hall & John Oates Hershey Giant Center May 4. The Replacements Philadelphia Festival Pier May 9. Ministry Philadelphia TLA May 13. Jane’s Addiction Philadelphia Electric Factory May 14. BRONCHO Philadelphia Johnny Brendas May 15.

Jeffrey Gaines Harrisburg Millworks May 16. KIX Duncannon Tubbys May 16. FIDLAR Washington DC 9:30 Club May 28.

USE ‘the paper” that the Music Industry USES!

m

a

g

a

z

i

n

e

What we Offer YOU for Your Marketing Investment: • 12,000 Copies distributed in Major Clubs, Music Stores and Malls throughout the state (that’s 12,000 FLYERS out there WITH YOUR NAME on them! People collect each issue)

• Link to www.pamusician.net

WE SCAN YOUR AD ONTO OUR SITE and place a link from your ad to your website or myspace (over 10,000 hits and more per month!)

• When you advertise with us, Like us at

www.facebook.com/PA Musiciaan Magazine and share your events and what is happening and we will share them on our Timeline as well.

• Lets Club Owners know you’re Serious about helping to PROMOTE YOUR GIGS and GET YOUR FANS and NEW FANS to the show.

• Puts Your Phone Number & Website at the tips of club owners & fans.

You have the talent, you have the band, the equipment, the CD, now you just need to let people know.

Let us help you.... 717-444-2423 14

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

15

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

17

PROFESSOR’S

THE

“LIVE REVIEWS”

By Jim Price May is the month when the warm outdoor live music season kicks into higher gear, with festivals and other late spring events firing up. The 48th annual Blair County Arts Festival, the 8th annual Pints for Pets Brewfest and the 4th annual Striking Chords Against Cancer Benefit are among area outdoor happenings the coming weeks.

Indoor live music provided its fair share of highlights in recent weeks. I journeyed to Montoursville’s Mill Tavern in late March to enjoy a multi-band bill featuring the debut of White Witch/Monster Track Supergroup frontman Jeff Pittinger’s new project, The Betty Ford All-Stars. Under way as I arrived was Audiobox frontman Matt Colegrove, performing an

acoustic set. Matt mixed original songs with select covers from Bon Jovi, Journey, Tears for Fears and more. Next was a new group, Milton-based Ascension, who performed hard and classic rock favorites from Stone Temple Pilots, Corrosion of Conformity, the Doors, Marshall Tucker Band, Black Sabbath, Alice In Chains and more. Featuring singer Tim Troxell, lead guitarist Scott Clark, bassist Mike Byers and drummer Al Chervanik; Ascension delivered a strong set - I was especially impressed with Scott’s clean and precise guitar solo work. Following them was Trout Run-based rockers Noise Pollution. At least for me, this band didn’t live down to their name, as I found them to be far removed from either noise or pollution; they sounded great on their charged set of mostly 1970s and 1980s-era hard rock. Bassist Tara Silva and drummer Dan Miller alternated lead vocal duties, flanked by lead guitarist Ed Silva and rhythm guitarist Josh Wolfe. Tara demonstrated a powerful voice and abundant enthusiasm as she fronted Noise Pollution on numbers from Sammy

Hagar, Pat Benatar, Lita Ford and Heart; while Dan captured a near-perfect Brian Johnson polecat howl on AC/DC’s “Back in Black.” Next was the anticipated premiere of the Betty Ford All-Stars, an amalgam of seasoned Williamsport area performers. The aforementioned Jeff Pittinger sings lead vocals, flanked by bassist Jason Miller (44Mag), guitarist/bassist Steve Kepner, lead guitarist Bill Zimmerman and drummer James Dowling. Opening with Queen’s “Tie Your Mother Down,” the Betty Ford All-Stars tore through a set of classic rock covers, spanning favorites from Black Sabbath, CCR, Judas Priest, Cars, Deep Purple, AC/DC and more. Highlights included Jeff’s soaring voice on Dokken’s “Alone Again” and guest Chris Bovard of the Blind Chitlin Kahunas helping out on Judas Priest’s “You’ve Got Another Thing Comin.’” Bluesrock closed out the bill courtesy of Dirty Mojo, whose members took part in this year’s International Blues Challenge in Memphis. These guys got their mojo working with a variety of blues, funk and blues-rock original songs and classics. The father and son tandem of guitarist/singer Gary Strickland and singer/harmonica player Shawn Strickland, guitarist Al Meck, bassist Tim Reinhard and drummer Mark Peterson broke out several Allman Brothers classics such as “Soulshine,” “Dreams I’ll Never See,” “Whipping Post” and “One Way Out,” Delbert McClinton’s “Standing on Shaky Ground,” Dr. John’s “Right Place Wrong Time,” and even a version of the Muddy Waters-popularized “Got My Mojo Workin!’”

Gary provided the stinging guitar work, while Shawn delivered bursts of righteous harp that roused the house.

Closer to home, McGarvey’s was busy in recent weeks with a number of memorable shows. Goddamn Gallows singer Mikey Classic brought his solo acoustic project to McGarvey’s stage last month. Strumming banjo and guitar, Mikey Classic & His Lonesome Spur opened the evening with fire-and-brimstone, punk-toned folk and Americana. He growled out original songs including some from his Goddamn Gallows catalog, along with versions of Townes Van Zandt’s “Tecumseh Valley,” and even an acoustic take on doom metal group Pentagram’s “Be Forewarned!” Mikey then stood up the upright bass and stood in with Louisville, Kentucky’s Call Me Bronco. Mikey, lead singer/guitarist Sam, guitarist Bobby and drummer TBone delivered a similar vein of fire-and-brimstone punk-driven Americana original songs, including a few from their latest recording “Depressing Songs for the Depressed” such as “Kentucky Girl” and “Four Shots.”

Call Me Bronco introduced humor into the mix on several numbers, including the tongue-in-cheek “I Gave Up Drinking for My Dog.” Although the house was not continued on next page ...

Rich Edmundson, busking in front of the State Theatre in State College photo by Jim Price 18

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

The Professor continued....

Sam of Call Me Bronco

filled on this Thursday evening, those who did attend were howling unanimous approval for these performers.

The “King of the Cigar Box Guitar,” Shane Speal, returned to McGarvey’s in late March with his Snake Oil Band, and again it was a spectacle. Two opening acts preceded that spectacle; first, the duo of Jake Makin and Eric McCrum opened the night with a set of acoustic favorites from Dave Matthews Band, Fastball, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sister Hazel and more.

Next were Nashville-based indie rockers Radar vs.

Wolf, doing an all-original set. Lead singer/guitarist James Bratton, bassist/singer Craig Schlesinger and drummer Andrew Bone played sharp, punchy songs with quick-hitting hooks and harmonies; including several from their self-titled CD such as “Devil By Your Side,” “Broken Throne” and “Let It Burn.” Then armed with homemade instruments, Shane Speal’s Snake Oil Band brought the house down with nonstop excitement as they took primal blues on a hellraising joyride.

Namesake Shane on a myriad of cigar box guitars, stompbox and vocals, harmonica player/singer Aaron Lewis, washtub bass player Farmer Jon and substitute washboard scratcher Ian (filling in for Ronn Benway) mixed original songs with freewheeling medleys, draping the crowd with toilet paper launcher volleys along the way. This band delivered early blues-rooted sounds at a breakneck pace; including songs from their “Holler!” CD such as “Big Leg Woman/Swing the Hammer,” “Strung Out, Drunk and Busted (And There’s a Body in the Trunk),” “49 Years,” “A Fat Man Will Love You (Like No Skinny Boy Can)” and more. And the group used medleys to strip popular songs back to their primal blues roots; with blues as the unifying thread, the group successfully got AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell,” Lipps, Inc.’s “Funkytown” and the “Fat Albert Theme Song” to peacefully coexist in one medley, and used Rush’s “Working Man” to merge passages of The Strangeloves’ “I Want Candy,” Bo Diddley’s “Who Do You Love” and Ace Frehley’s “New York Groove” into another. Other highlights included a roots blues spin on Led Zeppelin’s “Dancing Days,” Shane’s solo cigar box guitar slide rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” to lead into “16 Miles to Saltsburg,” and an over-the-top throwdown version of the Doors’ “Roadhouse Blues” to close the night, with Shane trashing one of his guitars at song’s end! For anyone under the misconception that blues has to be depressing music, Shane Speal’s Snake Oil Band will quickly dispel any such myth; as I said before, this band has to be seen to be believed!

As reported last month, former Stept On/Bad Daze drummer Jim Bagrosky has taken over behind the drum kit of popular Johnstown hard rockers Inside Out. Jim and the updated Inside Out returned to one of the first stages they ever played when they visited McGarvey’s last month (formerly Aldo’s when they first played it).

The updated mach edition of Inside Out singer/guitarist Tim Frick, guitarist/singer Kolt Green, continued on page 2 0 ...

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

19

The Professor continued.... bassist/singer Larry “Larz” Philip and Jim on drums sounded strong as they blasted out a mix of modern rock/metal original songs and covers. Inside Out fired up the crowd with numbers from Seether, Linkin Park, Three Days Grace, Godsmack, Disturbed, Chevelle, Pop Evil, Breaking Benjamin, Static X and more; and performed songs off their latest “Unbreakable” CD such as “Giving Myself Away,” “Taking My Life,” “Inside Of Me,” “Vampire Eyes” and “Demons Inside.”

Jim has quickly made himself at home behind the Inside Out drum kit, slamming out the beats with authority, and merging with Larz’s strong bass lines to generate the powerful backdrop for Tim and Kolt to deliver their guitar fireworks and crunch. With Jim bringing songwriting skills to the Inside Out camp, the prospects for exciting new song material appear to be bright. Inside Out performs throughout the region in coming weeks, including several incursions into Happy

Valley territory.

I caught up with The Sitch as they fired up the party at McGarvey’s in late March. Kicking off this night was an impressive opening set from an artist I hadn’t experienced before, Toby Bialas. Toby displayed a great singing voice, broke out some song surprises such as the Beatles’ “Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” and Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer!” The current mach edition of The Sitch - singer Dustin Reisling, guitarists Art Martino and Tim Michrina, bassist/sax player Ryan McCracken and drummer Huck James - then generated the dance floor party with three sets that escalated into a fun, star-studded party as various musical guests helped make the music happen.

Backyard Rockers harp man “Harmonica Dave” Baird stepped up early and joined in on the Romantics’ “What I Like About You,” Sitch alumnus, horn and keyboard man Nate Beatty chimed in on trumpet during Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” and other songs, This Albatross’ singer Autumn Shiffler and

guitarist Phil Wagner helped lead off The Sitch’s second set on Billy Squier’s “Everybody Wants You,” Todd Chwatek took over drum duties on The Doors’ “Roadhouse Blues,” Chad Carruthers stepped up to sing the lead vocal on Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell,” and Rhythm Sharks bassist Bethany Helsel contributed bottom end on Jimmy Eat World’s “The Middle.” The Sitch and their guests maintained the musical fun at a high level for the duration of the night and kept the dance floor consistently busy. Heading into summer, The Sitch shares their party throughout the region, and will open for Led Zeppelin tribute Kashmir at Altoona’s Railroaders Museum in late July.

I visited Johnstown’s Woodside Bar and Grill for the first time last month; the first time I had been inside this room since its previous life as Dougherty’s “Terra” Tory.

The occasion was to catch the updated edition of Johnstown’s Smooth Sound. This group has a new look since the first time I saw them three years ago; singers Venus Hall and Stephen Lewis now front Smooth Sound; flanked by keyboardist/singer Brandon King, lead guitarist Eugene Sanders, bassist Joseph Morris Jr. and drummer Jeff Wilson. Smooth Sound steadily amped up the party over their three sets, triggering dance floor moves with their crisp mix of modern and classic R&B, dance hits, rock and even country. Each member of this group brought something vital to the mix, from the bright voices and harmonies of Venus and Stephen to Jeff’s energetic and high-flying drumming style, to Brandon’s prominent organ signatures and ringleading duties on the dance floor to fire up the party, to Eugene’s tasteful guitar leads and Joseph’s bass groove. Smooth Sound generated distinctive takes on hits from the Ohio Players, Pharrell Williams, Montell Jordan, Daft Punk, Kool & the Gang, Joan Jett, Luke Bryan, Grand Funk Railroad and more; plus did a few songs from their recently-issued debut CD “In The Cutaway”. The Woodside crowd didn’t want the party to end, prompting several encores until the end of the night. Smooth Sound plays select shows in Johnstown and Pittsburgh, and looks to expand their smooth and soulful dance party to other parts of the region soon.

Area rockers Saving Jake have been silent recently as band members venture into other projects. Singer James Musselman is stepping away from the group to pursue other interests, while guitarist Jordan Ferraro, and bassist Josh Michael have been working with Huntingdon-based singer/guitarist Harley Rae Heffner in her newly-formed Harley Rae Band. During a performance last month at the McKee Tavern in McKee, Harley, Jordan and Josh mixed up original country-flavored tunes with country and rock classics.

Harley Rae showed a clear, potent voice and bright personality up front, and she and her bandmates were solid on songs from the likes of Johnny Cash, Marshall Tucker Band, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Eric Clapton, Dolly Parton, Sublime and more. Opening for the Harley Rae Band trio were Paul Patterson (who also plays bass and guitar in the full Harley Rae Band) and Colton Fouse. Paul did an interesting selection of acoustic classics and a few originals, including takes on several Beatles songs, The Wallflowers’ “One Headlight,” Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus” and more. Colton followed it up with his blend of Americana and classics, pulling a few from the library of The Devil Makes Three, plus songs from Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Bob Seger, Marshall Tucker Band and more.

I first met Cambria County country artist Adam Ernst when he appeared on my “Homegrown Rocker” local music radio program two years ago. Since then, Adam has spent some time in Nashville, has formed a full band and recently issued his second CD, “Dirt Road Memories”. I finally experienced Adam performing live continued on page 2 0 ...

20

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

The Professor continued.... last month at Northern Cambria’s City Hotel. Playing in a duo this night with guitarist Chris Spaid, Adam sang numerous original country numbers, including songs from the CD such as “Bench Seat Kinda Thing,” “That’s Right,” “Country Boy Ride” and more, plus a number of new songs. His original songs are catchy and consistent with the popular rocking country currently making the rounds. Adam also did a number of country hits from Florida Georgia Line, Brantley Gilbert, Luke Bryan, Garth Brooks and others. Adam showed the ability to work the crowd as Adam and Chris had the City Hotel crowd hooting and hollering wildly by night’s end. Adam performs both acoustic and full band shows, and several of his song videos can be viewed on YouTube.

Since I managed to miss them during the recent St. Patrick’s Day season, I caught up with area Irish rockers Full Kilt last month during their monthly first Thursday appearance at Molly Maguire’s in Altoona. Greeted by a friendly and enthusiastic crowd in the house (including a patron’s retirement party), Full Kilt contributed to the festivities by performing Irish rock favorites and giving the Blarney stone kiss to some rock classics.

Singer/guitarist Mike Zerbee, fiddler Mandy Passmore-Ott, bassist/singer Chris Myers and drummer/singer Pat Boland gave their Celtic-flavored touch to renditions of the Rolling Stones’ “Paint It Black,” Bob Seger’s “Turn the Page,” Charlie Daniels’ “Devil Went Down to (Dublin)” and John Denver’s “Thank God I’m an (Irish) Boy.” They also did Celtic rock numbers from the libraries of Flogging Molly, Great Big Sea and Gaelic Storm, and offered their upbeat takes on traditional numbers such as “Star of County Down.” In presenting their version of the everpopular “Wagon Wheel,” Mike explained that it was the song most requested by Irish audiences when he and

May, 2015

Michael O’Brian Band cohort Brian Anderson visited Ireland recently. (Thanks to Full Kilt for inviting me up to bang bongos on Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl!”)

Full Kilt plays every first Thursday at Molly Maguire’s, and will perform at various festivals throughout the state during the upcoming summer months.

I also caught up with 7th Gear last month, witnessing their high-energy performance at Altoona’s Four Dees Lounge. Guest Nate Beatty sat in on trumpet and keys; joining singer Ashley Thompson, guitarist/singer Brendon Burns, bassist/singer Kelly Montgomery and drummer/singer Randy Servello as they generated good vibes and the dance floor party. Ashley’s voice was in great form as she fronted 7th Gear on female rock and pop favorites from Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Pat Benatar, The Pretty Reckless, Veruca Salt, Scandal and more.

Also impressive was witnessing how Randy coordinated belting out soulful lead voice while churning out the funky beats on Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music,” with Nate breaking out and accompanying on trumpet. Other highlights included Brendon and Kelly leading choreographed dance floor moves during Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way,” and 7th Gear stirring up the dance floor funk with their version of Mark Ronson & Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk.” Watch for 7th Gear’s return to the Four Dees and other Altoona venues, and see them when they open for Aerosmith tribute Draw the Line at Altoona’s Railroaders Museum in August.

It seems like only yesterday that I first witnessed a teenaged Altoona-based band called The Syrins in one of their early performances, doing old-school 1960s-era classics from the Beatles, Byrds and more. The Syrins have quietly and steadily evolved since then, and a dozen years later are still making great rock’n’roll on area stages. During last month’s visit to Altoona’s Family Pizza & Pub. The Syrins’ roster of

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

The Sitch

guitarist/singer Tom Fronauer II, bassist/singer Mike Furry and drummer/singer Chris Conrad did what they do best; generating clean-sounding, efficient guitar tones, crisp vocals and vocal harmonies, and performing a fresh set list of classic rock hits and deep cuts from the 1960s through 1980s. This night’s selection included deep cuts from Depeche Mode, The Police and the Beatles; as well as hits not often covered on area stages such as Hall & Oates’ “Maneater,” Talking Heads’ “Wild Wild Life,” INXS’s “Worlds Collide” and Foo Fighters’ “Big Me” - even a version of Huey Lewis & the News’ “Power of Love!” The Syrins steadily attracted increasing numbers of dancers onto the floor as the night progressed. For a solid, fun, classic rock’n’roll, catch The Syrins as they play throughout the area; including the fourth annual Striking Chords Against Cancer benefit at Altoona’s Railroaders Museum on May 30.

After 14 years of entertaining audiences across the region, Born and the Beanstalk recently expanded into a trio and have further honed their acoustic show into a top-notch experience. Since percussionist Ed Hofer joined the long-established duo of guitarists/singers continued on page 2 2 ...

21

The Professor continued...

Ed Hofer of Born & the Beanstalk

Sean “Born” Osborn and Ben “Beanstalk” Bower, Born & the Beanstalk has evolved their show into a sharp, multi-flavored, fun musical sojourn. During last month’s visit to Hollidaysburg’s historic U.S. Hotel, the group played a wide variety of favorites, eagerly honoring audience requests along the way. I liked the creative way this trio blended and juxtaposed songs together; jumping back and forth during their mix of the Beatles’ “Dear Prudence” and Blind Faith’s “Can’t Find My Way Home,” and incorporating part of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” into Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower.” They also broke out versions of Oasis’ “Champagne Supernova,” the Band’s “Up on Cripple Creek,” and honored requests for Live’s “All Over You,” Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin,’” a spirited nightending sing-along version of Don McLean’s “American Pie” and more. The trio even turned their obligatory version of “Wagon Wheel” into a multi-speed affair. All three musicians craft strong two and three-part vocal harmonies, and Ed’s expanding percussion arsenal enables him to vary his rhythmic mixture for each song.

It’s no mystery why Born & the Beanstalk has become one of the busiest frequent flyers on regional stages; based on this night, they have evolved into something truly special.

Other performers I saw recently include The Hurricanes as they entertained Jaffa Shrine Circus performers with a three-ring circus after-party at Pellegrine’s, and Rich Edmundson as he street-busked in the rain in front of State College’s State Theatre (my reward as I did PA Musician magazine foot deliveries during that rainy afternoon). I also attended the second annual Allegheny Ukulele Soiree at Penn State Altoona last month; and witnessed performances by James Lee, Crawdad Joe, Ron Balestino, Mo Yon, Phil Baskin, Tami & Jeremy, Casey Smith and others during the weekly Tuesday Open Mic Night at D’Ottavio’s Gran Sasso in Hollidaysburg.

The area music scene mourned the loss of two treasured friends and members last month. Area music scene photographer Bill Rogers passed away on April 3 at age 67. Bill was a regular fixture at music festivals and events throughout the region, including Johnstown’s Flood City Music Festival, the Pittsburgh Blues Festival and numerous other events. He photographed numerous bands, especially blues artists, and designed CD covers for local bands such as the Fabulous Flashbacks and Jimmy Adler. In 2011, Bill won Johnstown Magazine’s “Simply the Best” Photographer award. And former XL guitarist Brian Bohn passed away on April 19 at age 49. Our sincerest condolences go out to the families and friends of both men.

News and notes: Mama Corn, Tyne & the Fastlyne, Miss Melanie & the Valley Rats, Jerry Haines, Flood City Brass, Chris Woodward & ShinDiggin,’ Flight continued on page 2 3 ...

22

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

The Professor continued...

Harmonica Dave, Mo Yon, Rich Dasch & Bob Seller during Backyard Rocker’s Open Mic

19 and Your Dad’s Friends are among the performers at the 48th annual Blair County Arts Festival, taking place May 16-17 at Penn State Altoona. Simple Gifts presents their annual Folk College event May 22-24 at Juniata College in Huntingdon. Skye 2.0, the Backyard Rockers, 22 East, Ambush 3D, James Lee, Ron Balestino and Phil Baskin are among the performers at a Benefit for Tina (Leeper) Rightenour, taking place at Pellegrine’s May 17. Guitarist Tom Buck has parted ways with Cambria County-based rockers Fuse. Former Force of Habit bandmates Brian Smith and Josh Crownover have joined forces with Emily’s Toybox alumnus Matt Kyle and drummer Chris Skipper to form Reboot. Rich Edmundson, Chris Strait and Dylan Miller of Strait & Miller, John Berger and Bobby Baronner have announced the formation of bluegrass/newgrass band Great Scott Doc. From the Depths is changing drummers, as Dan Shoemaker departs and Jacob Adams replaces him. Harrisburgbased Kiss rockers StarChild have again parted ways

Susquehanna Valley NEWS

By Jeff Kreitz Jr. Hello music lovers! April showers bring May flowers, it also brings us alot of great entertainment to our area this month. Check out all this great info!

The 6th Annual Rock, Roast and Run for Little Ones takes place this month from the 15th through the 17th at the West End Fairgrounds in Laurelton with a great weekend of bands that include; Dirty Mojo, Wonderchunk, Deuce, Unncutt, Ascension, Grace’s Downfall, Aftermath, Audio Box and Gun Metal Gray. Go to LiftingLittleLives.org for more info.

Guitarist/vocalist Bob Woodring aka “Just Bob” has

with drummer Timmy Vincent, and are working with several drummers to play their ongoing show dates and are seeking a permanent replacement. 44Mag is seeking a new guitar player or two following the recent departure of Pat Cioffi. Graces Downfall is changing bass players, as Grant Williams departs and Jonathan Sembrat replaces him. Minnesota’s Davina & the Vagabonds, featuring central PA native, singer, keyboardist and namesake Davina Sowers, appeared last month on the BBC television program Later...with Jools Holland; Davina & the Vagabonds visits PA this month with shows near Philadelphia and York.

Happy Birthdays to Ron Dalansky and Joe George (Half Tempted), John Charney (The Chi/Wine Of Nails), Beau Saller and Mary Villani (R2B2), Pat McGinnis, Nate Smouse (Emberstitch), Chris Silva (Ganister), Scott Bush (Naildriver), Jerry Carnicella and Harry Young (White Shadow), Chris Whitmer, Dave Skipper (The Insomniacs), Mitch Neuder (Shallow 9), Denise Strayer (The Strayers), Ray Buksa, Mike Gambardella (Chris Woodward & ShinDiggin’), Les Beatty (This

Smooth Sound

put the final touches on a full band entitled Dug Out with an emphasis on 90’s hard rock and grunge, other members are Mike “Dizzle” Davis on bass, Trevor Smith on guitar and Jared Blair on drums. Catch their debut show when they open for All Else Fails at the Grandville Tavern up in Grandville Summit on the 2nd!

Nick Coyle takes his Electracoustica show out to Bar Louie at the Mohegun Sun Casino in Wilkes-Barre the 1st. Classic rockers Bad Habit are back after a long hiatus, and are finalizing their schedule as we speak!

The Rocky Allen Band return to our area this month with a pair of shows, catch them at Big Dogz Sports Bar in Hughsville on the 29th and up at the Canton Moose Club on the 30th.

Billy Rock and the Sucker Punch boys have some dates in our area this month, check them out at McGuigan’s in Sunbury on the 2nd, the Mifflinburg Pennsylvania Musician Magazine is Independently owned and is totally funded by all you wonderful people who place ads and pay for them. THANK YOU! We have been publishing the PA Musician Magazine monthly since 1982 Currently printing and distributing 10,000 copies throughout Central PA & beyond plus we place the entire issue online at www.pamusician.net If you want to become part of the PA Musician Magazine family please call us at

717.444.2423 Deadline for June 2015 issue is Wednesday, May 20th for space reservation.

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

Inside Out w/ dancers

Albatross), Shane Speal, Jim Speese (Cloud Party), Andy Tolins and Stubby Stubbs (Triple A Blues Band/Natascha & the Spy Boys), Adam Rider (Big Bear Chase Me), K.C. Seidel, Frankie Lyxx (Sunset Strip), Mike Wise (Emily’s Toybox), Beth Helsel (Rhythm Sharks), Randy Rutherford (Flood City Brass), Dan Vavrek (Yum), Jonathan Spirk (Mileunder), Jules Bianchini (The Amplified Heet), Erek Kapusta (Nightcrawlers), Rue Moyer, Jake Makin, Denny Pompa, Priscilla the Tambourine Lady, Ronnie Sheirer (F.B.I.), Ty Ayers, Steve Leak, Deb Demko, Paul Miller, Greg Larrimore, Paul Patterson, Bill Nusom, Jim Mosey and Steve Shutt.

Please send correspondence and recordings to: Jim Price, 1104 S. Catherine St., Altoona, PA 16602. You can also e-mail me at jptheprofessor@gmail.com. For my weekly updates on area music scene happenings, check out JP’s Corner on the Rockpage forums area at www.rockpage.net. If you’re into social networking, look me up on Facebook or Google+. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC! VFW on the 9th and at the Mifflinville Fire Co. on the 16th. Plus they will be opening for Tantric in Endicott New York at The Pines Pavillion & Events Center on May 30th Guitarist Tony Harlan and his Random Axe crew invade the Mill Tavern in Montoursville on the 8th with a huge back to the 80’s party...if you miss the sites and sounds of great 80’s music then don’t miss this show!

The hard hitting band Quarterstick roll into the Lock Haven American Legion on the 1st. Armed & Ready return to our area this month with stops at the Mifflinburg VFW on the 1st and the Lock Haven American Legion on the 9th.

Legato Vibe are still busy with stops at the Riverside in Montgomery on the 2nd, Hulls Landing in Muncy on the 15th and The New Mountain Tavern in Montgomery on the 16th.

Speedy’s Place in Milton welcome’s newcomers Babylon Sister on the 9th. Lock Haven classic rockers Seven 2 Ten invade the Jersey Shore VFW on the 16th.

The band Flipside from the Williamsport area have a very busy month, catch them at the South Williamsport American Legion post 617 on the 16th, the Hiawatha River Cruise on the 17th, two shows on the 23rd, Horsepower Harley-Davidson in Williamsport (day show) and Happy Acre’s up Pine Creek (evening show) Plus they will be at The Mill Tavern in Montoursville on the 29th and Pier 87 in Montoursville on the 31st.

The Route 61 Roadhouse in Sunbury welcome’s the Eighty 6 Band on the 8th, also every Thursday is open mic night at the Roadhouse!

Lock Haven area band Teacherz Pet have gotten back together for a reunion gig at The Gamble Farm Inn in Jersey Shore on May 9th!

That’s all for this month, if you have any news or info to share hit me up on Facebook or email me at motherman2000@yahoo.com. As always, continue to support live music and the PA Musician Magazine!

23

PA Musician Magazine Reviews MATT PLETCHER “SURE THING” (Made In America Records) Hailing from the southern Blair County farm belt, Matt Pletcher has been playing guitar since age 7, and first rose to regional prominence as guitarist and songwriting collaborator with popular Altoona-based country artist Ricky Lee. He started performing as a solo acoustic artist in 2012, and soon went to Nashville to record his first full-length album, “Sure Thing”. Country is the prominent flavor through “Sure Thing’s” ten tracks, but Pletcher with his hired gun Nashville cast incorporate other flavors into their country mix, while showing a clear knack for song hooks and easy-to-digest, relatable lyrics. Showing a Gin Blossoms-toned edge, the driving country-rock title track “Sure Thing” launches the album with words of both anticipation and apprehension. Pletcher mixes some funk into his country on the breakup ode “On My Own Again” and the edgy dance floor number “Wanna See You Move.” He explores the ups and downs of love on several tracks, expressing devotion on “For You” and the rural R&B of “Anytime, Anywhere,” but lamenting breakups and sudden solitude on the tear-in-beer ballad “Handle Me” and the groove-infused “On My Own Again.” Pletcher mourns on the somber “I’ll Be Seein’ You,” reflects on past love interests on “When I Think About You” and “16 Again,” and muses about a night out on the upbeat disc-closer “Something I Can Dance To.” Pletcher’s voice is smooth and hearty as he radiates gusto into his song material. His instrumental cast gives spark and consistency to each song, supporting the melody and mood of each piece. This cast smoothly and subtly blends the variety of styles into a cohesive, country-flavored set. Recorded in both Nashville and at Altoona’s Data Music Services, “Sure Thing” sounds polished and radio-ready, and the mix and production enable the performances to do the talking. This disc proves that Matt Pletcher’s arrival as a competent and talented singer, songwriter and performer is a ‘sure thing’, and this introductory set should earn him fans and attention. (The CD can be obtained through Matt Pletcher’s website, www.mattpletchermusic.com.)

THE LAMPSHADES “NUMBSKULL NOTHINGHEAD” (Soapbar Records) Originally Altoona-based but now calling Pittsburgh home, the Lampshades began their musical sojourn as teenagers in 2003. After some initial CD’s, the group took a hiatus in 2009, returning three years later and recently issuing their latest CD, “Numbskull Nothinghead”. Singer/guitarist Jaren Love, bassist Chris Kibler and drummer Dane Adelman offer a stripped-down, chaotic brand of indie pop/punk over the disc’s 13 tracks. The sound suggests a nerd-rock Nirvana after a recording studio encounter with George Martin or Brian Wilson. Distortion abounds, melodies take awkward twists and turns, and Love’s vocals often sound like he’s hanging on for dear life as he muses about youthful restlessness and the perils of decision24

making. But the song hooks are largely catchy, and the group subtly merges doo-wop choruses with chaotic bursts of distortion and feedback, unexpected appearances of brass instruments and even a dialup internet solo during the discending “Bored.”

The overriding theme of indecision and uncertainty kicks in on the discopening “Floating,” and Love ponders living locales on the numbers “Atlanta” and “Baltimore.” An apparent break-up informs the words of the speedy “Doesn’t Matter Now,” while “Liberty vs. Security,” “I’d Rather Just Neglect,” “Keep On Moving On” and “Restless” all document decisions to move forward, stay put or go it alone. The incendiary title track “Numbskull” resolves that individuality trumps all, and to be one’s own person moving forward. As quarky and chaotic as these songs are, as a total album it all works; the melodies do have purpose, and the band slams them forth with reckless abandon. Love’s detached, sometimes unsure vocals serve the song themes well, and the unexpected production curios keep the disc interesting throughout.

The Lampshades further define their unique musical niche on “Numbskull Nothinghead”, providing a listen that is jagged and chaotic, yet catchy, listenable and entertaining. (The CD can be obtained through the group’s website, www.thelampshades.net.)

THE REACH AROUND RODEO CLOWNS “ROCKABILLY DELUXE” (Lanark Records) The Reach Around Rodeo Clowns have been spreading their roots rock vibe across the country and around the world since 1995. The Lancaster-based group’s sixth album, “Rockabilly Deluxe”, offers a tensong joyride that mixes a variety of upbeat flavors from across the roots rock spectrum and beyond. Founding siblings Wendell Jones on vocals and Quentin Jones on guitar, bassist Crusher Carmean and drummer Dave Ferrara attack the s ongs wi t h an enthusiasm and vigor similar to the early rock’n’roll pioneers, often packing an edgy punk kick to drive the songs along. The Clowns set the disc’s tone with the rowdy rock’n’roll opener “King of the Slot Car Track,” firing on all cylinders in a punchy romp. The group shows their swagger with several bold struts, including “Paranoid Boy,” plus the saxophone-tinged numbers “Long Gone Daddy” and “It’s Rock & Roll.”

Surf rock is a prominent flavor as well, as the group rides the edge with “Wild, Crazy and Out of Control” and “I Got the Shakes,” and they reference classic hillbilly-toned Elvis on the playful “Bowling Alley Baby.” “I’m Obsessed” shows more of a punk-driven PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

demeanor, and the disc-closing “The Light So Bright” incorporates some psychobilly chaos into the mix. For a surprise twist, the group presents a Tex-Mex, pseudopolka flavor on the brass-powered “I Used to Be the One.” The performances are crisp throughout; Wendell Jones’ voice shows good range, personality, clarity and versatility in handling the range of song material, and Quentin Jones’ guitars capture the tones of late 1950s and early 1960s rock’n’roll. Carmean’s thumping upright bass and Ferrara’s snappy drumbeats give each song the needed punch. Recorded on analog and digital equipment at Lanark Records Studio in Lancaster, “Rockabilly Deluxe” sounds full and captures the cavernous atmosphere of early roots rock, yet allows the band to bare its teeth and show its bite. The Reach Around Rodeo Clowns celebrate rock’s roots on “Rockabilly Deluxe”, while stamping their own signature and raucous attitude to deliver a fun, rambunctious listen. (The CD can be obtained through Lanark Records’ website, www.lanarkrecords.net.)

KLOCKWICK - “DEVOLUTION OF TYRANNY” (no label) Klockwick was formed in 2012 by three seasoned performers from the Blair County metal, punk and hardcore community. On their debut disc, “Devolution of Tyranny”, lead vocalist/bassist Josh Brubaker, guitarist/backing vocalist Dave Charlton and drummer/backing vocalist George Phillips forge a distinctive melody-based spin on classic and thrash metal rooted in the traditions of early Metallica and Pantera, but top it with a charged lyrical edge that tackles some of today’s social and political issues. The group is mad about loss of personal freedoms and dysfunctional government; the tense “Birthright” fights the fight for personal freedoms, and rails against the perceived police state condition of modern day American society. “Winds Of Change” warns that America’s situation is approaching the breaking point, and that something eventually is going to have to give.

And the Sabbathy disc-closer “Sway the Wicked” condemns government ineptitude and abuse of power as it warns of a nation teetering on the brink.

Other numbers are more contemplative; “Fear” explores insecure emotions, while “On High” ponders the afterlife. Klockwick likes their fun, too, with “It’s On” extolling the virtues of a drinking party in the woods, while “Radioactive” celebrates the moment the group takes to the live stage. The songs show definitive melodies and alluring riffs, and the group’s mixture of fast and slow tempos works to prevent most of this set from sounding monotonous.

Brubaker’s scathing howl drives forth the group’s cutting-edge commentaries; effectively backed by their multi-speed, roughshod metallic rumble. Recorded in a home studio and produced by the group, “Devolution of Tyranny” displays a consistent thunder and jagged edge; some spoken-word vocals get buried in the mix, and there are occasional uneven spots. But overall, this is a respectable debut; “Devolution of Tyranny” defines Klockwick’s distinctive style and stances, and introduces listeners to a hard-hitting band with something to say. (The disc can be obtained through the group’s Facebook or Reverbnation pages.)

Send your CDs and Recordings for

Review to: Jim Price, 1104 S. Catherine St. Altoona, Pa 16602 May, 2015

• Videos • Press release • Promotion items (flyers, postcards, stickers, posters) One theme you’ll note through the course of our new guide is the idea of maintaining your brand identity in all your promotional materials. It may be distasteful to think of your music, your art, in terms of “branding,” which can have corporate or cold connotations, but the idea of branding as it relates to your band concerns your image and how you present yourself to your fans and the world – something you want to take control of as an artist.

Establishing and maintaining a consistent brand is critical to creating a reliable and enjoyable experience for your music fans. Just as you need to work to make sure all your social networking accounts have the same look and feel as your music website, your press kit should be an extension of that same aesthetic. In other words, the color scheme and font palette should be the same, your photos should present a consistent image – your overall promotional output should fit together like a puzzle.

It is also important to maintain consistency in your

messaging. Your band bio and press releases – as well as your blog, newsletters, and tweets – should maintain the integrity and the voice that you’ve established as your own.

As mentioned, a press kit will look and be different depending on what it is you’re promoting or what stage you are in your career, so you should first ask yourself, “What am I trying to accomplish?” Are you looking to book shows? Promote an important gig? Announce a new release? Sell CDs and merchandise? Get radio airplay? Get a song placed on TV? Whatever the purpose of your promotion, your press kit should reflect it, as should all your social networking efforts.

Read more: What is the purpose of a band press kit?

Disc Makers http://blog.discmakers.com/ Note from the Editor — As a musician or any business for that matter, it is hard to decide what to best spend your time and money to enhance one’s business. A quality press kit or even a one sheet with the basic information is great. Today we are finding musicians that just send CDs with no pertinent info, no names , no phone number to call for more info. Very sloppy and you go to the bottom of the pile.

What is the Purpose of a Band Press Kit?

by ANDRE CALILHANNA on APRIL 22, 2015 ·In this excerpt from our new Definitive Press Kit Guide for Musicians, we lay out the purpose of your band press kit and the importance of maintaining your artist brand.

A band press kit is an encapsulation of who you are as an artist – it’s all there in one place. I worked as a writer at a music magazine many years ago, and I vividly remember how much I enjoyed rifling through the press kits of the bands I really liked to see how they presented themselves to the press. Typically there was a bio, a glossy picture, a CD or cassette, maybe a sticker or postcard, and various other goodies, depending on what they were up to at that moment.

These days, of course, there are multiple options for your press kit, including a variety of venues to host an Electronic Press Kit (EPK). Not to mention that your website, and web presence in general, is really a press package with lots of bells and whistles and an endless bottom which you can fill with your most current information and content.

For many bands, it might not be immediately necessary to have a printed press kit, but there are reasons why having a press folder could still be a major part of your promotion arsenal. When submitting a CD for review, seeking press coverage of a release party or major show, submitting music for placement or licensing, or arming yourself for a music conference, your printed press kit can still make an important first impression.

Regardless of whether you’re putting a printed or electronic kit together, the same diligence and attention to detail is required to create a winning band press package. All of the same principles apply when it comes to writing a bio, creating press releases, posting photos, etc.

What does a press kit include?

The contents of your press package will vary, based on what you are promoting, but the basic elements can include: • Band/artist bio • Photos • Press clips • One-sheet • Music May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

25

SANE ADVICE

By John Kerecz

For Love or Money: Musicians need to make money from music, there is nothing wrong with that. It’s just like a teacher needs to make money from teaching and a truck driver needs to make money from driving a truck.

But there seems to be two approaches to becoming a profitable musician. One, you can make the music you love and hope that others will love it. Or, two, you think about the kind of music that sells and you set out to make that kind of music, even if it is not really the music that is in your heart. How do you approach your music? Which approach works best? I’ve always tried to create the kind of music that I would like to listen to.

I start making music with the idea of making “PERFECT MUSIC.” Whatever makes music perfect to you? The right cords? The right lyrics? The bridge in the perfect spot? Over the years I’ve noticed that personal taste in music fluctuates somewhat with what is commercially successful music anyway.

I have met a lot of people that claim to dislike any music that appears “on the charts” and commercially successful, but I honestly feel these folks are missing out. I think it’s good to have an appreciation for commercially popular music, or to at least keep one eye on it, that way you can use influences from those sounds while creating music close to your heart, increasing your chances for success!

CLASSIFIED NOTES BUSINESS CLASSFIEDS: WANTED: WE PAY CASH for used guitars, amps, effects, etc!!! Call Matt at Creter Guitar Shop, Jonestown at 717-865-3677.

We also do guitar repairs and have a variety of lessons available.

WANTED: Vintage guitars, basses, amps, banjos, etc.

Fender, Gibson, Martin, Rickenbacker, Gretsch, etc.

Top dollar paid! Call Player’s Exchange at 717-975-2385 or stop by and see us at 225 S. Third St. Lemoyne, PA. Email: bslotus@aol.com.

THE BEST VALUE FOR YOUR RECORDING DOLLAR: Celebrating our 30th year in business. Pro Tools, HD3/Accel, 192k Interface, 2 inch 24 track analog, 16 channels of API outboard mic pres, Yamaha Maple Custom Absolute kit, SWR 7 GK bass amps, Marshall half stack, Fender twin & Bassman guitar amps, Hammond B-3, Yamaha C7

grand piano. Authorized Pro Tool dealers. CD/DVD duplication on site 3 CCC Video Services. 5.1 surround mixing. $300 per day. www.datamusicsvcs.com, Altoona PA. Phone 814-9442406.

RIGHT COAST RECORDING: State of the art vintage recording environment with years of experience and a long list of satisfied customers. www.rightcoastrecording.co m Phone 717-560-1530.

WANTED TO BUY: Piano sheet music. Call 717-2504798.

FOR SALE: Music Store, complete stock and displays.

Moe’st Everything Muse 825 Ann Street, Stroudsburg, PA

The Pennsylvania Musician Magazine is designed in format as a publicity magazine for musicians, agents, and clubs. The interest it will generate will spark the renaissance of Pennsylvania’s local entertainment scene.

That in turn, will make the Pennsylvania Musician Magazine the most informative and entertaining magazine Pennsylvania has to offer — Mission Statement by Whitey Noll November, 1982 (founder/publisher/musician) And that my friends, is what has happened. —Editor Robin Noll

26

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

18360.Call 570-223-6900 shop or 570-350-2962 cell.

DRUM LESSONS: Altoona area. Drum lessons from Jim Bagrosky. Any music or songs. Beginners to advanced. Any age. I can come to you if needed!! Call 814-215-3541.

Please say, “I saw your ad in the P E N N S Y L VANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE” FOR SALE: Personal Collection 7,200 Country 45’s with origianl papers and picture sleeves. Very good condition, asking $1,800.

814-765-1222. Ask for Don. FOR SALE: 700 33 1/3 Records all in sleeves for $100; 700 45’s records all in sleeves for $100; 175 45 records all in sleeves they are Variety and Comedy all for $150. 717-567-3700.

DRUM LESSONS: Altoona area. Drum lessons from Jim Bagrosky. Any music or songs. Beginners to advanced. Any age. I can come to you if needed!! Call 814-215-3541.

WANTED: Practice space for Fridays through Sundays. continued on next page ...

May, 2015

PA MUSICIAN CLASSIFIEDS continued...

Sporadic weeknights after 6pm. 40-mile radius of Harrisburg. One person.

Thanks, 708-776-3567 Kent

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE FOR SALE: Bose L1 compact PA. Beautiful clear sound. Easily fills a church or club. 35lbs.

Great for small or solo performers. Call 814-931-4905.

FOR SALE: Power Conditioners 3 EQ Pro VLA Crossovers speakers, Gollow Spot Senheiser 421’s, rack, cases, Yamaha Drums, mics, cables and much more. 814692-2114.

FOR SALE: Elation Light Show. Smokin Gunnz is selling their light show 16 par 56s , 4, 415 packs, 1 board, 4 trees & cables. Ready to Plug & Play. Call Bob 717-8326154. Asking $900 or best offer only 2 years old we paid over $1,900 new

FOR SALE: Acoustic foam.

Great for studio, control rooms, stages, rehearsal space. (4)sheets 2-3” thick, 54” square. $50 takes all.

610-488-0914 FOR

SALE:

Studio/apartment refrigerator.

Keep your drinks cold while you rehearse! Small Sanyo refrigerator. $50. 610-4880914 FOR SALE: Compressor/limiters. Aphex

720 Dominator II, DBX 266XL,Drawmer 241L. Leave message. 610-4880914.

FOR SALE: Microphones.

(2) AKG C-391 B condensers.

Excellent

condition, low price. Bass roll off and-10db attenuation.

Includes clips, foam windscreen, cables and protectivecases.

610-4880914. continued on next page ...

FOR SALE: Tascam 380 24 track recording board with V.U. meters, $500 717-6274800.

FOR SALE: Mastering cassette recorders like new, $35 each. 717-627-4800.

FOR SALE: 2 Peavey TLS4X 2 Peavey bass bins, Road case PRWN 14x Yamaha MG 16/4 2 Amps PV 2600, QSC, GX5 Lexicon MX200 furman M-8 x 2 DBX223XL $3,000. Call 717-513-6671.

FOR SALE: Nice vintage Rogers Drums with all hardware of not, your choice.

I’m looking for smaller cheaper set to purchase. Also Amp cabinets for sale, combos 717-303-4211.

FOR SALE: Vintage Five piece Rogers Drum set; 3 Rogers cymbal stands, rogers Hi Hat stand, Rogers bass drum pedal, Rogers stool, excellent condition, $1,200 firm. 717-737-8443 or 717315-8789.

May, 2015

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

27

PA MUSICIAN CLASSIFIEDS continued...

FOR SALE: Multitrack recorders. Tascam. (3) DA88’s, (1) DA-38 and (1)RC848. Includes sync cables w/balanced snakes, rack cases and custom oakremote control stand. Leave message. 610-488-0914.

FOR SALE: Multi effects processors: t.c. electronics M5000 w/digital options..

Lexicon LXP-5 w/MRC. Leave message 610-488-0914 FOR SALE: DI box. ProCo CB-1. $20 Leave message 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: Record video of your band from the stage or Front of Housesound board. Attach any camera to these unique CAMERA MOUNTS. Leave message 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: Hammond Proline 860 Leslie, With foot pre-amp and leslie 11 pin cable, All in great condition! $600.00 Phone 717-2488739 Email: superstarr@hotshot.com

FOR SALE: DAT Recorder.

Panasonic SV-3500 in very good working andcosmetic condition. Includes power cable, wired remote and original shippingbox.

Records at 44.1 khz. 610488-0914

FOR SALE: Peavey LB1200 par 64 midi and dmx controled lights with gels, 2 bars with 4 lights each. work great $250 Ph. 717-248-8739 email: superstarr@hotshot.com

FOR SALE: Mic stands and tons of cabling. Mic cables, instrumentcables, snakes (RCA, ?”, XLR etc),,monster speaker cables, balanced EDCO to multi-pin etc.

Leave message. 610-4880914

FOR SALE: 1 Pair of JBL TR Series Tower speakers, dual 15” subwoofers and horn speakers $500.00 570765-2227 Don.

MUSICIANS WANTED

WA N T E D : Hard-hitting drummer with experience and good instinct wanted for working band. Must be willing to travel. Originals and mostly KISS, Poison, Crue, Joan Jett covers. Full drum kit available. Call Sharon 717-465-8119.

WA N T E D : Musicians.

Starting country group.

Guy/girl. Acoustic drums guitar bass. Serious please Mechanicsburg, Dillsburg, Carlisle, Gettysburg areas.

From Lancaster county names Doug 717-770-9621.

matter. We’ll work with you if you can sing, have good style and are willing to grow!

Email frontmanneeded1@gma il.com for more details.

WA N T E D : Musicians.

Lancaster Singer looking for musicians to start band, ages 35-60, Rock from 70’s to Today. LOVE performing?

Call Genie 717-682-4987 WANTED: Bassist needed for fun, central pa 80s rock cover band. Call or write for details, contact Bill 717-421-3868 or realrockisback77@yahoo.com

WANTED: Musicians.

Drummer looking to form original, instrumental group.

South central PA region.

Shannon sdrummer@innernet.net 717 264-9951

SEEKING: Lead Guitarist with pro gear, dedication, and pro attitude. Hard rock/ metal /alternative. Contact: atfmatt@hotmail.com. 724681-9923.

WANTED: Frontman needed for Full Time band, 21-30 years of age, Pop/Rock band Covers and Originals.

New album in the works.

Good attitude and drug free.

Experience level doesn’t

SINGER WANTED: WilkesBarre area male vocalist for established party band (covers). Please email a link to some vocal samples Visit www.ostrichhat.com email ostrichhat@hotmail.com continued on next page ...

28

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

May, 2015

PA MUSICIAN CLASSIFIEDS continued...

WANTED: Lead Guitarist.

Drummer and Bass player looking for Lead Guitarist with some vocal ability for classic, modern rock band.

Must have equipment, transportation. Reading, Berks County area. 610-4513824.

WANTED: Bass player for Hardrock band. Influences; Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Motley Crue. 570-274-6582.

WANTED MUSICIANS: Forming original heavy metal group. I don’t care if I have to wear a damn dress on stage!

Male/Female Dedication, image and work ethic. 717-770-9621 Doug WANTED: Singer and drummer for all original band. Practice in Duncannon.

Must have experience, equipment and transportation.

717-712-2008 or 717-4180020.

WANTED: Lancaster-based rock band seeking frontman/ vocalist. proficiency with

May, 2015

rhythm guitar and / or harp a plus. Larry after 5pm 717252-2616.

WANTED: Solid drummer for modern rock cover band.Everything else is in place,we just need you.

PLEASE no beginners. 570412-7614.

SINGER WANTED: Wilkes-Barre area male vocalist for established party band (covers). Please email a link to some vocal samples email ostrichhat@hotmail.com

WA N T E D : Keyboardist witth vocals for classic / original rock-n-roll band: Full size Hammond B-3 with 147 Leslie cabinet provided.

Rehearsal Space located in Milton, PA for $20 per hour. leave name, number, brief message; We will return your call 570-412-4312.

WANTED: Musicians.

Forming all original black metal group. Seeking like minded professional members. Musical abilities, image conscience. Drums, bass and lead. Interested gouls feel free to email, or 717-770-9621

WANTED: Looking for players to jam with Lehigh Valley blues rockabilly call johnny suede 484-862-6513.

DRUMMER WANTED: for originals studio project. hardedged, melodic, progressive rock. Electronic set a big plus. Newer stuff is waiting. guitarmandan@comcast.net

WANTED: Band based in NEPA with published original material and signed with a major promoter; is currently seeking a Keyboardist, Vocalist and Guitarist with vocal ability for recording and concert venues. (Serious inquiries, please) Dennis 570704-8131.

WA N T E D : LYRICIST searching for an imaginative lyrics writer to put his/her words to my original music compositions for studio recordings. Dark, deep, passionate. guitarmandan@comcast.net

WANTED: Drummer for all original band. We play rock to hard rock. Must have equipment, transportation, and experience. Craig 717418-0020 or Matt 717-7122008 WANTED: Frontman/Vocalist Lancasterbased rock band seeking frontman/vocalist. proficiency with rhythm guitar and / or harp a plus.

Larry after 5pm 717 252 2616.

bass , drums. over 21. Must have talent. Your equipment.

We have agents and promoters waiting 717-3645660.

WANTED: Musicians.

Seeking lead guitar, drums, bassist, keyboards. All original black metal group.

Prefer experience, will deal if none. Male or female Image attitude dedication a

must.

717-770-9621 dsadler131@gmail.

WANTED: Musicians.

Original goth metal band seeks male or female Drums, keyboard, lead guitar, bass.

Dedication and image a must.

Type O Nightwish Moonspell Dimmu B o r gir. dsadler131@gmail. 717-7709621. continued on next page ...

WANTED: Musicians.

Autumns Golden Oldies a Working 50’s & 60’s Band.

Looking For Keyboard/ Possibly lead Guitar Player. Vocals a Plus. Please Call Randy 570-898-6888.

WANTED: Piano Player/ Keyboardist for original rock/ folk/ blues project. Singing and songwriting a plus.

Contact Nelsoncl36@hotmail.com or 717-813-5158 for details.

WANTED: Musicians. All female rock band Streetwalker is reforming in Pittsburgh , seeks female

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

29

PA MUSICIAN CLASSIFIEDS continued...

ADVERTISING RATES Post Office Box 362 • Millerstown, PA 17062 • 717.444.2423 • www.pamusician.net

Ad Size & Cost Per Month....

Back Cover w/ color.................................. 10” w.

x 12 1/2” d ...................................................$475

Inside Cover................................................. 10” w. x 12

1/2” d....................................................$375

Centerspread w/ color...............................21” w. x 12

1/2” d ...................................................$870

Full Page........................................................10” w.

Full Page w/ color..................................9

x 12 1/2” d ...................................................$350

1/2” w. x 12 1/2” d..................................................$375

1/2 page.......................................(vert), 5” w. x 12

1/2” d. (hor) 10” w. x 6 1/4” d..........................$198

Jr page / 1/2 page...........................................6

1/2” w x 9” d......................................................$198

1/3 page.................( vert) 3

1/4 w x 12 1/2 d (hor) 10” w x 3 3/4”d (vert) 5”w x 9”d......................

1/4 page..................................... (vert) 5”w x 6 1/6 page............................. (vert) 3

1/4”d (hor) 6 1/2”w x 5”d.......................................$130

1/4”w x 6 1/4”d (hor) 6 1/2”w x 3 1/4”d....................................$99

1/8 page ...................................(vert) 3

1/4”w x 5”d (hor) 5”w x 3 1/4”d..........................................$85

1/12 page ....................................................3 1/18 page..................... 3

$154

1/4”w x 2”d .........

1/4”w x 3 1/4”d........................................................$60

Business ...... $40......Special Band Rate........... $30

Price Includes: Ad Design & typesetting. Ad placed on our website with direct link from our site to yours (UPDATED monthly creating fresh hits). Digital Copy on www.pamusician.net. 15,000 Copies distributed throughout Pennsylvania. No Long Term Contracts required.

10% Discount for 6 months paid in advance. Visa, Mastercard accepted GUARANTEED FULL COLOR & POSITION: Additional $25 (Certain pages are already designated to repeat advertisers & are not available) TERMS: First time and one time advertisers require full payment in advance. Established accounts due on receipt of invoice. Send Check or Money Order to PA Musician, PO Box 362, MIllerstown, PA 17062

30

WANTED: Lead guitarist wanted for working Central Pa rock band Disorderly Conduct wanna make some money and have some fun email dcscotty666@yahoo.com or call Scott 717-318-1725 WANTED: Lyricist seeks composer: Many songs, many genres, rock, rap, country.

Need set to music. E-mail me at dunlap8631@aol.com. Bob D

MUSICIANS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE: Classic rock lead vocalist in Northumberland county available, many years of stage experience. I have live video available, contact: frontman_classic_rock@yaho o.com

well seasoned can also sing some lead. Can sing harmony. Also can play left h a n d e d b a s s . Working situation only, any style Joe 570-356-2390.

AVA I L A B L E : Guitarist between York and Lancaster Counties. Primarily into hard rock to metal.

1986Stratocaster@GMail.Co m AVA I L A B L E : Guitarist playing old out-dated material but doing it extremely well. Looking for same playing out, heavy rehearsal time. I’m not interested in that arrangement. 717-303-4211.

AVAILABLE: Male vocalist, excellent range.

Some rhythm guitar skills.

Best at singing 50s-60s oldies rock and roll or 80s-90s country songs. Carlisle-

Harrisburg area. 717-5335263 AVAILABLE: Rock Vocalist. Kevin Dubrow, Robert Plant, Bon Scott, Layne Staley type voice.

Rhythm guitar skills also.

Prefer established original or cover. HBG area. Reply: planithe@comcast.net.

AVAILABLE MUSICIAN: Playing 35 years lead, slide, and acoustic guitars. Solid lead or back up vocals if needed. Solid personal stage equipment.

Solid transportation and D.L. Playing Married, clean cut, semi retired with lots of time.

Please no heavy, punk or hard rock. West York, Haover and Gettysburg areas. Please call Dave Lanich. 717-817-2165.

AVAILABLE: Guitarist from Harrisburg area looking to put together band at my location or yours. Weekend rehearsals only. Covering 70’s I0’s material. Easy stuff to start. 717-303-4211.

AVAILABLE: Keyboard player all styles to sit in with working band. No startups.

Call Dean 570-784-2689 email docfrear@gmail.com.

AVAILABLE: Keyboard Piano player, Danville area,

PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE

pamusicianmagazine

May, 2015