Live En Vivo May 2009 by Richardo Baez

MAy 2009

Magazine

Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;n the bay with

THE DANI PAIGE BAND

NEBLINA

Skyway View - Hero Shot Sapos Muertos - Beezle Moon Cadillac - Cali Nation The Mystery Lights All Or Nothing Giovanes Rocks Salinas

Live En Vivo Magazine

Live En Vivo Magazine 740 Spencer St Monterey, Ca 93940 www.liveenvivo.com

May 2009 Contents www.liveenvivo.com myspace.com/liveenvivo 10 Sapos Muertos 4 All or Nothing

The band from Castroville

Hollister Rockers

Rick Báez Publisher Editor, Sales, Distribution rick@liveenvivo.com 831-676-7248 Contributing writers Ryan Pagan Vanessa Garcia Adrian Navarez Rose Fellon-Morris Hernán Fisgón

11 Brother Dance Promotions

5 Hero Shot

Bringing Reggae To The Salinas Valley

Taking their best shot

6 Skyway view

12 Neblina 6

Graphics/Layout Rick Báez

Rockanroleando Con Neblina

Bill D.

14 Band Show Case Beezle Moon Cadillac The Mystery Lights Cali Nation

Skyway View 7 Giovane’s Salinas’ Flavorful Venue

8 Every Day Latina Making Dreams Come True

9 The Dani Paige Band Rocking The Bay Every Day Latina

The Dani Paige Band 8

Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 2

Oscar Tiene Alas By Adrian Navarez

All Or Nothing By Adrian Navarez

n the tradition of that hardcore, screaming metal sparked by labels like Victory Records, Solid State Records, and Ferret Music, the band All Or Nothing is grinding their rocks in order to add their grain of sand. Directly from Hollister California, this Christian influenced rock band is making their way into the national touring scene under the flag of Ethos Records. This genre is not for those searching for something mellow, this is loud and face fighting with social topics designed to protest the mainstream. The first song I heard was called Terror on Every Side. The intense instrumentation starts off the song, along with the staple of screaming that leads us into the wild vocals. In the middle of the song there’s a man’s voice whispering that he can see into the blank space where my eyes used to be. The follow up to that was a song called The Devils in the Room. None of this music is intended to be understood clearly, but the energy and changes of pace never let’s you feel like your out of its path. It’s a constant onslaught of boulders coming at you, and as you try to dodge them you can’t help but smile at the fact these boulders are well thought out and organized. The names of these songs speak for themselves. The next one is called It’s Only Blood. Free from the catchy melodies, hooks, and simple punches of their counterparts, All Or Nothing brings along a community of music goers to the position of what I’ve called mortal combat. This music is made for the battles people engage in at their shows. Picture a room full of kids with their heads down, arms swinging, and practically flying from one end of the room to another. All of that with evil defying Christian messages telling

4 Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009

us that we won’t be overtaken. The last song I heard was one called A Million Venomous Snakes. I’ll be honest and say that ever since I’ve been introduced to this type of music I’ve struggled with understanding the lyrics. Still, I listen to their music and I hear a movie unfolding and chasing me down a one way street so narrow I could fall off to either side. The whole time I’m running I feel the end of something getting closer as I try to just stay alive and make it to the other side. The most insane part that would probably confuse the victim is that the there is actually no aggressor. All Or Nothing did not lack in power that this genre requires. Those breakdowns that chop down at you are probably the most important aspect of these songs. They must relieve you of the anguish caused by the chase only to capture you into a head banging hypnotism that lulls you into a slow but wild rhythm. That transition is very calculated although it might seem chaotic. Then, the chase is retaken and culminates into the sweaty and shirtless shoe throwing rant of an angry citizen during a revolution. Expressive less with its words, but more with an ecstatic and excruciatingly suffering soul that punctures lungs, ear drums, and vocal chords, All Or Nothing’s music shreds our senses reducing them to crude oil. I respect this style for a few reasons. But, the strongest truth I take from this band is that their sound is for those prepared to adapt at a given notice. Don’t expect harmonious choruses, or rosy outlooks. This is not even for those looking for the typical horror film. It’s the complex personi-

fication of a rebellious and hyper heart twisted on a straight edge. myspace.com/aonmetal

The live show is a promise to be kept. On stage a natural performer grabs a crowd regardless of the mental state in which they arrived. One of the greatest pleasures of going to shows is when you sort of like a band’s record, but then go to their show and witness something totally better and profound. This is what happened to me at Mal’s Bar in Downtown Los Angeles on April the 3rd. They are called Oscar Tiene Alas and were here for the first time from Spain. They made it clear they are from the islands of Spain and not from the mainland. The volcanic, carved out caves, lagoons, craters, and beaches of the Canary Islands is where nature birthed this bands sense of style and music. From the start people were a bit skeptical and sort of cleared the room after Soy Disco did their thing. Once on stage, their music began to pound the room with heavy bass grooves, strong guitars that surprised everyone in the room. It was blend of chopped up funky head nodding rhythms and an eclectic lead singer with a contagious energy about him. After the first two songs people began to return to the stage and dance for the rest of the set. Political and social songs like Malaka sarcastically asked us all to applaud those with the biggest cars, and the most money while climaxing into a demand for that applause. Then I really enjoyed a song called Bombon. This was a fun song with a catchy hook that was full of electricity and bilingual festivity that had everyone dancing from the front of the room to the back. Seriously, their show is an experience because of all of the different dynamics I heard in their music. I refuse to try and label this band with the bindings of a genre, so let’s just say this band tears through with growing explosiveness and without pretentiousness. www.myspace.com/oscartienealas www.oscartienealas.com

What is the biggest challenge the band is currently facing? The biggest challenge that this band faces is basically exposure and getting more out there in regards to shows. Also our drummer has a wrist problem at the moment. LEV:What is the funnest part of being Hero Shot? The funnest part of being in HERO SHOT! is how we all function as a family rather than a band. We have stupid jokes that we all get and we always know how to have a good time when we’re all with each other. LEV:What are some of the bands that have inspired you guys as musicians? Wow. There is a lot in that area. But the majority of bands that inspired us are ATTACK ATTACK!, A Skylit Drive, Pierce The Veil, My American Heart, Dance Gavin Dance, Emarosa, Agraceful, Circa Survive, Saosin, etc. Lev:In one quick sentence, can you describe what Hero Shot is about? We are about the interaction of our music and our fans.

HERO SHOT!

LEV:As a band what are you fighting for? We fight to put Salinas on the map in music.

By Adrian Navarez

ero Shot is a band of friends who recognized each others passion for music. The oldest member of the band is only 20 years old, so in that energetic youth they united in 2008. Straight from those fertile soils of Salinas California is where Hero Shot is attempting to wage their battle for recognition. Their fight to put Salinas on the national map is being done with a sound that combines machine gun guitars and Indie keyboards that add some electronic overtones to an already multi-faceted rock ensemble. Through the adversity that Salinas brings to an aspiring rock band, Hero Shot has been making strides to convert kids, “The scene in Salinas is dying out and the majority of bands in Salinas are hardcore.” This is a band that smiles at the challenge of being discovered amongst the vegetables and fruit fields by the simple but yet hard work of making music and promoting it. Currently engaged in joining the Vans Warped Tour, Hero Shot believes that their love for music will move the masses as they get more opportunities to learn and grow. Of course with all the seriousness that comes with being a band full of dreams and hopes, there should also be fun and jokes. Hero Shot is learning the beauty of genuine chemistry amongst friends in a rough atmosphere that could easily break apart even those prominent bands. “The best part of being Hero Shot is how we all function as a family rather than a band.” As people scatter in search of what is and what will be their favorite bands, the bands themselves sacrifice their all in order to reach that chaos. Hero Shot is on that march to the unknown with music that’s filled with pieces of all their influences, a growing fan base that’s starting to

sport their merchandise, and a strong belief in what their doing. LEV:How did that band come together? We were all friends with mutual interests in the type of music we listened to. And that led us to come together as a band. A few of us [me(Earl), Jonathan,

LEV:About how many shows are you guys playing in per month right now? About zero to one show. It is really hard to get shows around here LEV:How is the rock scene in Salinas California? The scene in Salinas dying out and the majority of the bands in Salinas are hardcore bands. LEV:Do you find it hard to touch kids and to get people to look at you as a band? Sometimes it is hard to reach out to certain kids because they just want to be in the “scene” of what most people are in and will not give other music a chance. We try to get friends to tell their friends and so on so it would be easier to have people listen to our band and check us out.

and Eric] have been in a band together and that band split up and we all still wanted to do music. With that, we recruited Matt as our bassist and Marcus as our keyboardist completing the band since I sang and played guitar, Jon played lead guitar, and Eric played drums. LEV:How old is everyone in the band? I (Earl) and Jonathan are both 19. Eric and Matt are both 20. Marcus is 17.

LEV:Why do you guys feel it’s important to play the Vans Warped Tour? We feel it is important to play the Vans Warped Tour because it exposes us as a band to a larger audience and also shows them what we got. We’re a band passionate about our music and what we want to accomplish with it. We want our music to reach the masses. We play what we love and we love what we play and just hope that anyone who listens to us will find at least one thing they can relate to. LEV:Where do you guys see your music heading in the future? LEV:We see our music heading forward and being more out there. We also hope that more people will have listened to us and loved us. myspace.com/ heroshotrocks

Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 5

They began to notice a positive change and hear good comments of their music, as well as to feel the support from friends and fans for the great progress, and they have felt motivated to continue together. The boys of Skyway View commented that each member demonstrates his own tastes and styles, and even though Ruben is the composer of the majority of their songs, there is always space for each member to add a little of his personality. “Vanity Unveil Me” was their first album, launched in 2009, and included songs that they recorded when they were Breaking Hour, such as “Stranger” and “Seventeen.” Ruben, who wrote the songs, says that this album in particular is very personal. “The songs talk a lot about relationships in general, as well as reflections on life and how one grows and learns through life experiences,” Ruben said.

Skyway View By Cynthia Flores

hen I heard Skyway View, the first thing that came to my mind was, “how cool is that singer___ Frankly, this band has figured out how to make their talent and originality stand out, especially 17 year old, Jessica Eagleston’s voice. Atmospheric, melodic, and progressive are three words that the members of Skyway View agreed on to define their music. The band’s members are: Ruben Beltrán, 26, and Eddie Ruvalcaba,22, both guitarrists, Emiliano Rodríguez, 22 year old drummer, and Sal Cisneros, 21, who plays the base and uses special effects to add a more progressive electric sound. If you tried to categorize this band, you wouldn’t find an exact genre that would define them musically, as each member of the group has different tastes and isn’t afraid to experiment with new ideas while playing. When asked about the genre of their music, they told me that they tend to play alternative rock, but this doesn’t keep them from other possibilities. I would say that Skyway View is a mix between Evanescense and Portishead. The admirable thing about this band is not only Jessica’s fascinating and melodic voice, but the songs themselves, that if you sit and listen to, are meaningful songs that make you reflect on all the events that happen to us at different moments in our lives. Skyway View emerged from another band in San Jose called “Breaking Hour” in the summer of 2005. For the members of Breaking Hour, playing was just a pastime, not an artistic career. Ruben noted that when the band started, it didn’t go as they’d hoped it would, and musically, they weren’t advancing. “When we were Breaking Hour, I felt that we weren’t doing very well, and in a certain way, we weren’t progressing. We needed a change of environment to better the band,” Ruben said. When they saw that they were not progressing with Breaking Hour, they decided to make radical changes in December, 2007, breaking up the band. It was then that they came up with the name “Skyway View.” Making these changes was like starting over, with new songs, new members, and new goals. Emiliano, Sal and Jessica joined after the end of 2007. They hadn’t had the idea of adding a female voice, but when they met her and heard her voice, they liked it a lot and didn’t think twice in asking her to join them. The first thing that Ruben said when he heard Jessica sings was, “Wow, she really has a good voice.” When I asked them how they feel that woman like Jessica represents the voice of the group, they simply responded that it’s been an incredible experience to work with her and they have received a good response from the public to their new changes.

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Now, they are working on new songs to launch material at the end of 2009 (mid-November) that will be called, “Under the Digital Sky.” They said that they already have songs ready to record, but they didn’t want to disclose a lot of information on what the disc will include, saying they want it to be a surprise for their followers. The only detail they gave me when I asked about the subject material was that they had recorded a song called, “Beauty and Pain” with Joseph Fassler, a rapper and good friend from Arkansas. When I asked them about doing duets with other groups, they told they that they would love to record with Chels from Salinas. They said that for them, local music is very important, and despite the musical differences between them, it would be a unique experience to work with Chels, because both they and Chels have a lot to offer. Skyway View wants to thank all the people that have supported their music, especially their families. Skyway View has plans to play in various cities in northern and southern California, and to tour nearby cities to gain recognition. Skyway View will perform in a completely acoustic concert to promote their most recent album, “Vanity Unveil Me” on May 1, 2009 in the Hot Topic in the Northrige Mall in Salinas. You can go to their webpage to see their upcoming events. Myspace.com/skywayview

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Rock’n Salinas By Ricardo Baez

he once quiet music scene in the city is no longer quiet. Salinas has exploded with the opening of new music venues featuring both local and well known touring bands of every taste. Leading the music venue resurgence in Salinas is Giovanes Italian resturant. Located on the corner of San Juan Grade Rd and Rogge Rd, Giovanes has fast become the center for music entertainment in Salinas. From reggae music to rock en español Giovanes offers something for everyone. In recent weeks Giovanes has played host too well known reggae artist Don Carlo, and Pato Baton, local favorits Smoke Storm and The Dead Ringers, top notch spanish rockers Neblina will play Giovanes May 15th, Led Zepplin tribute band Heart Breaker Plays August 7tth.

Giovane’s serves up a superb Italian home style menu daily in a friendly atmosphere, its a perfect place to for a family night out, or a date, the service is excellent and friendly. The live music never interferes with dinner hours ensuring dinner guests not be distracted from their dinner experience. Owners Randy and his wife Sarah enthusiastically endeavor to share their love if fine Italian cooking and music of all sorts with Salinas and surrounding areas. Their restaurant combines two important ingredients , “great food and great music” two ingredients that bring people and communities together. So if you are looking for great night out, there is no longer any need to travel outside Salinas, Giovanes offers the best alternative.

Giovane’s restaurant has also been recognized my many local artist as Salinas’s biggest supporter of local music, providing a much needed venue and an welcoming environment where the cities youth can safely enjoy the past time of music. In the past, music fans and bands would have to travel to Monterey, Santa Cruz, and even San José to enjoy live music. Even then, out of town venues tend to be age restictive. Giovane’s has change that by offering all ages music events right here in Salinas. Giovane’s also offers wine tasting and comedy every 4th thursday of month of each month, featuring local winemakers, such as, Lockwood vineyards which be featured May 28, along with comedian Bob Johnson, and music with Memory Lane. Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 7

Event Organizer Monica Tover & Anna Caballero

2nd Annual Everyday Latina Continues to Create Opportunities

El segundo annual Everyday Latina continua creando oportunidades

By Vanessa Gracia

Por Vanessa Gracia

n October of 2007 a woman laid in bed in the middle of the night, and on the verge of turning 30, had a dream. Looking back on her life, Monica Tovar wanted to increase the awareness of possibilities for young Latinas to receive a higher education. Developing the idea of giving back to the community and creating an awareness of attaining a college education for young Latinas, she created the Everyday Latina Scholarship.

n Octubre de 2007, una mujer estaba acostada en su cama a medianoche, y al casi cumplir 30 años, tuvo un sueño. Reflexionando en su vida, Monica Tovar quiso aumentar el conocimiento de las posabilidades para que latinas jóvenes puedan lograr una educación superior. Al desarrollar la idea de devolver a su comunidad y crear un conocimiento del lograr una educación universitaria para latinas jóvenes, ella creyó la beca Everyday Latina.

Since then Monica Tovar has not only made her dream come true, but is also helping young Latinas in the Monterey Bay to attain theirs by offering scholarships, and giving them the notion that they can live out their dreams through higher education.

Desde entonces, Monica Tovar no solo ha cumplido con su sueño, sino está ayudando a las latinas jóvenes en Monterey Bay cumplir con suyos a través de becas y al darles la noción que pueden vivir sus sueños a través de educación superior.

According to the 2000 Census, only 12.3% of Salinas residents age 25 and older hold a Bachelor’s Degree, well below the state average of 26.6%. 56% of residents age 25 and older are high school graduates, also below the state average of 76.8%. Salinas holds among the lowest education rates in the county compared to other cities and states. With rates like these, it’s essential that an organization such as Everyday Latina exists to inform high school students who may not be getting the information they need in their high schools about going to college.

Según el consenso de 2000, solo 12.3% de los residentes en Salinas con 25 años de edad y más tienen una licenciatura, muy bajo el promedio estatal de 26.6%. 56% de residentes de edad 25 o mayor se han graduado de la escuela secundaria, también muy bajo el promedio estatal de 768%. Salinas tiene uno de los índices de educación más bajo del condado, comparado contra otras ciudades y estados. Con índices como esos, es crucial que una organización como Everyday Latina exista para informar a los estudiantes de la escuela secundaria quien pueden faltar la información necesaria para ir a la universidad.

This year’s Everyday Latina scholarship fundraiser was with the “Rockanroliando Por Una Causa” event at the Planet Ultra Lounge with local bands Mortero de Piedra, Corazon Atomico, Grito Dolores, and headliner Monte Negro from Los Angeles, and was covered by La Neta radio and Otro Mundo. Tovar explained that not only did presale tickets sell like hot cakes, but it also introduced the community to the local bands out here, and helped raise money for the scholarship.

Este año, la recaudación para la beca de Everyday Latina empezó en el Planet Ultra Lounge con bandas locales Mortero de Piedra, Corazon Atomico, Grito Dolores, y el acto principal Monte Negro de Los Angeles. El evento fue cubierto por La Neta radio y Otro Mundo. Tovar explicó que los boletos de la pre-venta se vendieron como loco, pero también introdujo la comunidad a bandas locales por aquí, y ayudó de recaudar fondos para la beca.

This years Second Annual Everyday Latina Scholarship and Fashion Show Fundraiser will include a runway show of the latest fashions from local boutiques Funky Elegance, Crissy Boutique, S.I.N.D.Y. of Queens Shoes, and will be introducing a new line of guayaberas from a local Latina entrepreneur - so that means eye candy for both guys and gals!

Este año, el segundo annual Everyday Latina y pase de modelos para recuadar fondos incluirá un show pasarela de las modas recientes de los boutiques locales Funky Elegance, Crissy Boutique, S.I.N.D.Y. of Queens Shoes, y introducirá una línea nueva de guayaberas de una empresaria Latina local – lo que significa gente hermosa tanto chicas como chicos.

Reactions throughout the community have been nothing but positive as individuals and organizations have been volunteering their time, talents, and energy for what will be another spectacular event.

Reacciones en la comunidad han sido muy positivas; individuales y organizaciones han donado su tiempo, sus talentos, y su energía para crear un evento espectacular.

In addition to the scholarship presentation, the night will end like all great pachangas - with a rockin’ band. Tovar recalled in amazement of last years event and how “people go for the arts and the fashion show but they don’t realize that they’re there for the event of the scholarship presenting” as well.

En adición de la presentación de la beca, la noche culminará como todas las pachangas grandes, con una banda rockanroliando. Tovar recordó asombrada de los últimos años y del cómo “la gente va para el arte y el pase de modelos, pero no se dan cuenta de que están allá para la presentación de la beca” también.

Everyday Latina not only encourages Latinas to graduate high school, but the university as well, with the hopes that they live out the dreams we dare to in the middle of the night. The Everyday Latina Scholarship Presentation and Fashion Show will be held May 23rd, 2009 at the Steinbeck Center at 6pm.

Everyday Latina no solo anima a latinas para graduarse de la escuela secundaria, pero también la universidad, con el deseo que vivan sus sueños que atravesamos a soñar a medianoche. La Presentación de la Beca Everyday Latina y el Pase de Modelos será el 23 de Mayo, 2009 en el Steinbeck Center a las 6 de la noche.

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and singing. As it turns out, though she may not look it at first glance, her powerful voice isn’t out of place amongst the ladies who made their names in that era. Trying to compare her voice to other performers is an exercise in futility, as you really have to see the band live to get the full effect. Luckily, they play locally quite a bit, and they keep an up to date schedule on their MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/ danipaigemusic. If you go to one of those shows, you will also definitely be drawn to the smooth sounds of the sax, as laid down by sax man Ben Herod. Unfortunately, live woodwind music isn’t present in a lot of contemporary mainstream music, but it’s alive and well on a Dani Paige Band stage. You might also find yourself having your spirits lifted by the infectious energy of bassist Nat Shuirman. Watching him play, you may find yourself a bit jealous, wishing you had this much

THE DANI PAIGE BAND by Ryan Pagan

“There’s just something about live music”, says Dani Paige, “There’s an energy, a connection. A recording just isn’t the same.” Having seen them live, I’d have to agree. The atmosphere at a Dani Paige Band show is infectious, and if you’re not having fun by the time the band’s in the middle of their set, you just might want to go see a doctor. There’s an obvious passion for the music emanating from the performers on stage, as each member of the band is visibly enjoying themselves. Talking to guitarist Jesse DeCarlo and singer Dani Paige, you realize that it’s not an act. This is a band of people who just flat out genuinely love music. Listening to music, playing music, going to live shows, or playing live shows themselves. Some musicians dream of the rock star lifestyle, with lots of money, big mansions, fast cars, and private jets. Others like the perks of fame; instant recognition, preferred treatment, and a massive ego boost. What do the members of The Dani Paige Band dream of? They dream of playing music full time. When asked what their music wish would be, if anything was possible, both Dani and Jesse responded that their biggest dream is to be able to make a living playing music without having to work other jobs. No golden microphone stands, no diamond studded guitar knobs, not even to play in huge arenas, just a pure desire to do what they love on a full-time basis. In that same spirit, there is a definite lack of prima donna egos in the band. Both Dani and Jesse acknowledge that they need each other to make their

music work. They’re a songwriting team, and each is quicker to point out the other’s talents before their own. Though they’d both tried other musical endeavors previously, this is the first that’s worked out for either of them. As it would turn out, both Dani and Jesse posted ads on Craigslist at the same time. After a few e-mails and phone calls were exchanged, the pair met, and they realized that they were on the same wavelength. Thus was The Dani Paige Band born. They feel that the internet is a valuable tool for musicians, allowing them to find people to play with, and learn about bands that might not have a big record label behind them.

“There’s just something about live music”.... “There’s an energy, a connection. A recording just isn’t the same.” Another good use of the internet would be to learn about the band’s influences, covering genres from motown to funk to rock and making several stops along the way. They’re hard to define, in a way a call back to an era of funk-rock, but with a definite modern sensibility. Jesse DeCarlo demonstrates his versatility as a guitarist, on some tracks becoming part of the ensemble, letting the vocals take center stage. On others though, he lets his guitar act as a second vocalist, something he learned from his musical heroes. “Led Zeppelin...you had Jimmy Page, and it’s almost like having another singer on those songs. Y’know, his guitar work is just as important as the lyrics to their music. I’m not comparing myself to Jimmy Page, but that’s something that influenced me.”, saysDeCarlo. He also cites influences in funk, commenting on how a simple riff can provide the basis for a tremendous song without being the focal point. With Dani, she grew up listening to a lot of motown and soul, and that influenced her own songwriting

fun doing your job. Finally, there’s drummer Jen Schaaf, laying down the beats that will get your feet moving and your blood pumping. There’s an obvious chemistry to the band, and as I’ve probably hammered to death in this article, a passion for the music that simply cannot be denie Though they’re a relatively new band, they play like seasoned pros. So much so, that sometimes, they even get to play WITH seasoned pros. Earlier this year, The Dani Paige Band opened for legendary rockers Los Lobos at The Catalyst in Santa Cruz. Both Paige and DeCarlo hold this as a huge moment in their musical careers, and a n amazing experience. However, they approach every show with the same high level of enthusiasm. They particularly love playing at Monterey Live, which is where I got to see them play, and where they’ll be playing again on May 30th. They also play all around the Bay Area, from Santa Cruz to San Francisco, as the band is developing a following. So do yourself a favor, and check them out. You’ll be glad you did. Myspace.com/danipaigemusic Music Available at Streetlight records in Sant Cruz Itunes and amazon. Upcoming shows: May 30, 9pm Monterey Live Jun 11, Fox Theater Salinas w/ George Thorogood Jun 28, Monterey Blue Festival, Monterey

Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 9

Sapos Muertos By Adrian Naverez

rom up North in Santa Cruz California, a band called Sapos Muertos is launching their musical style for an audience of that bilingual, Chicano neighborhood bar rock. I started my listening right away with a song called Chola Girl. The title alone got my attention and I immediately felt I was in that Dusk to Dawn movie as one of those bikers. It was hilarious to hear a guy actually say he fell in love with a Chola girl from the East Side of town that wears too much make up. Admittedly I grooved to this tune in a semi serious but absolutely comical way. The next song was called Nitro. The lyrics were extremely simple as he growls about the possibility of another person challenging him to a fight. It was a very short song. Of course that was good because there was not much more you can do with it. As I continued on I listened to a song called Drinking In My Truck. It was story about driving and drinking in his truck. The way he semi talked certain parts it reminded me of some old southern music with a bit of Tom Waits. Taking the dead frog tour I then heard a song called Cry Baby. Musically this song had some funky chop and a some movement to it. He does not sing, it’s more of a scrappy delivery of a six pack of beer and short sleeved wrapped pack of cigarettes. The way he talked about his old lady brought back images of a wife beater dude parking his truck by a river bed and talking smack with the homies. Then all of a sudden and unexpectedly, the music toned down in order to give us the song entitled Kicked To The Curb. He tells us that he got kicked to the curb because he might just have a social disease. I don’t know if this song was intended to be this funny, but talking about liking women panties and Spanish T.V had to be done with good humor. Then I felt like

10 Live En Vivo Magazine March 2009

I discovered the new Cheech & Chong when I heard Tacos De Cabeza. The song was something between a comical skit and whoever the guy was that briefly rapped sounded a little like Zack from One Day As A Lion. The groove kept going as this guy was fearing the police after he was asking for brain tacos. Then the song ended just like that. As we approached the song titled Vampiresa I didn’t know if I had entered a strange dimension of some 70’s exploitation stuff mixed with some futuristic spacey guitars all thrown together in the garage of a Latino neighborhood where people may or may not really be vampires. Then the stoner in them further showed it’s smoky face with the song called Technical Difficulties. Here we had a simple groove that required very little thought covered with a guy who kept saying that we were going to experience technical difficulties. It was a psychedelic song that zones you out and puts you in a mindless trance. Off I went, finding myself enjoying the trip, the tune Freak Job came on and I was once again confused as to how I was getting into this. It had some very Latino sounds that took us back to one of those Roberto Rodriguez flicks. It also had some repetitive higher pitched guitar rifts that just came back again and again laying the background for the heavier ones that were actually sustaining the song. It felt like it had a rockabilly thing with an updated Outsiders greaser vision that wanted to call out for Pony Boy. Another Tom Waits moment made me sort of like the way these vocals just played with things as they tried to describe what a Freak Job something or someone is. I don’t know if I would call Sapos Muertos as experimental or just simply strange. But for all the deficiencies a newly formed and under budgeted band could have, I understand that this band is being themselves and trying to make music that makes sense to them. I was really surprised that I like this music. It was at the very least pleasantly, humorously, and oddly entertaining. www.myspace.com/saposmuertos

Sapos Muertos Adrian Naverez

el norte de Santa Cruz, California, una banda que se llama Sapos Muertos está promoviendo su estilo musical para una audiencia bilingüe del rock de los bares de la vecindad chicana. Empecé con su canción, Chola Girl. El título me llamó la atención y me sentí inmediatamente que estaba un motociclista en esa película Dusk to Dawn. Era muy chistoso oír al hombre decir que se enamoró de una chola del lado este del pueblo que se maquilla demasiado. Yo escuché al surco a la canción de manera semi-seria pero a la vez, absolutamente cómica. La próxima canción se llamó Nitro. Las letras eran bastantemente simples mientras gruñe sobre la posibilidad de que otra persona le desafíe a una pelea. Fue una canción muy corta. Por supuesto, era bueno la duración corta; no había más para hacer con el tema. Mientras continuaba escuchando, escuché Drinking In My Truck. Contó de conducir y tomar en su camión. La manera en que habló-cantó en varias

partes de la canción me recordó de música vieja del sur mezclado con un poco de Tom Waits. Tomando el tour de la rama muerta, oí una canción llamada Cry Baby. La canción tenía algún tipo de surco picado y movimiento musical. Él no canta; la canción es más una rendición combativa de un paquete de seis de cerveza y una paquete de cigarrillos envueltos de manga corta. La manera en que habló de su vieja me trajo imágenes de un hombre vestido en una camisa sin mangas estacionando su camión al lado de un río y hablando, haciendo alarde de fuerza con sus amigos. Y de repente, y sin anticipación, la música se tranquilizó para poder darnos la canción, Kicked To The Curb. Él nos cuenta que fue echado a la acera porque podría ser que tenga una enfermedad social. No sé si la canción intentó ser chistosa, pero el hablar de su gusto de las bombachas y la televisión española tendría que ser presentado con buen humor. Después me sentí como si descubriera el nuevo Cheech & Chong cuando oí Tacos De Cabeza. Esa canción fue una mezcla de una presentación cómica y él que rapeó que era muy parecido a Zack de One Day As A Lion. El ritmo continuaba mientras ese chico temía de la policía por pedir tacos de cerebro. Y de repente, la canción terminó. Mientras nos acercamos a la canción Vampiresa, no sabía si hubiera entrado en una dimensión extraña de algo explotado de los años setenta mezclado con guitarras soñando muy del futuro, todo mixto en una garaje de la vecindad latina dónde la gente pueda o no pueda ser, verdaderamente, vampiros. Luego, el fumeta dentro de los músicos se emergió aun más con la canción Technical Difficulties. Aquí teníamos un ritmo simple que requería poco pensamiento cubierto por un hombre que decía vez tras vez que íbamos a experimentar dificultades técnicas. Era una canción psicodélica que se pone en un estado vacío sin pensamientos. Y por allá fui, divirtiendo el viaje, y empezaron nueva canción, Freak Job, y otra vez me encontró confundido del cómo me encontró disfrutándolo tanto. Tenía sonidos muy latinos que nos regresó a las películas de Robert Rodriguez. Tenía fisuras de guitarra repetitivos y altas que soñaban vez tras vez, formando el fondo de los más pesados que estaban sosteniendo la canción. Parecía que tenía una cosa rockabilly con una visión nuevo tipo greaser de Outsiders que quería pedir a llantos para Pony Boy. Otro momento Tom Waits me hizo gustar la manera en que las vocales simplemente jugaban con cosas mientras intentaban describir como alguna persona o cosa es un Freak Job. No sé si llamaría a Sapos Muertos como experimental o simplemente extraña. Pero, por todas las deficiencias que puede tener una banda nueva y sin bastante fondos, entiendo que esta banda está intentado ser fiel a si mismos y crear música que tiene sentido para ellos. Me sorprendió mucho que me gustó su música. Era, por lo menos, entreteniendo de manera gustoso, cómico y extraño. www.myspace.com/saposmuertos

The next big act for Giovane’s are The Mighty Diamonds. On August 1st and 2nd Brother Dance Promotions will have a music festival in Gonzales that will include the original Wailers, Pablo Moses, Britton Wood, Louie Ortega, and Dr. Loco’s Rockin’ Jalapeno Band, in addition to local acts such as the Chicano All Stars; Sunday will include banda and ranchera acts. In my first visit to Giovane’s Don Carlos performed with opening acts Omani and The Stir It Up Band. Groups settled at tables as they ate pizza and beer, while listening to really really good reggae music, as others danced to the beat of their own drum on a packed floor.

Brother Dance Promotions

Bringing Reggae Music to the Salinas Valley By Vanessa Garcia Photo by Vanessa Garcia

As Don Carlos left the stage, I’ll never forget the words his MC repeatedly preached to the audience as they walked out the door- “Did you get the message in the music?”

ocated on the outskirts of Salinas, just passed a few acres of fields on the city’s edge is Giovane’s, an Italian restaurant serving up great food and great reggae music. The restaurant’s location allows it to escape the noise of the city, giving visitors that small town welcoming kind of feel. Promoter Richard Vasquez, of Brother Dance Promotions, explains his goal is to make Salinas big stop for reggae music. The importance of bringing in large name reggae acts is because the “Salinas Valley has always been big on roots reggae like Bob Marley, Greggory Issaaca, Isreal Vibration, Don Carlos...we’ve always had to drive to Santa Cruz or San Francisco to see shows.” With Giovane’s bringing in large names like Pato Banton and Don Carlos, locals won’t have to travel so far to see their favorite performers. Vasquez believes Salinas needs the positive energy of reggae music right now. “We do have a gang problem, it’s obvious, but we can also bring positive energy and positive vibrations to this town also. That’s what we’re trying to do.” Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 11

tema,” dijo Carlos. “Otra Realidad en total contiene doce canciones tales como Alacrán, Esta Sociedad, Robot, y Revolucionarios.”

El resto de la entrevista con los integrantes de Neblina fluyo así:

Rockanroleando Con Neblina Por Cynthia Flores

ockanroleado con Neblina Cynthia Flores Los Angeles es una cuidad conocida por su mundo artístico y por las las diversas cosas que nos ofrece, en especial las noches bohemias, la vida nocturna, Pero sobre todo, les puedo comprobar que una de las principales son las numerosas bandas que surgen de alli. Tuve la oportunidad de entrevistar a los integrantes de Neblina para averiguar que es lo que hay detrás de esas nubes visibles de Los Angeles. Neblina pronto se presentara en Salinas que brindaran un tributo a Caifanes, y como aseguro Carlos García, el vocalista y guitarrista de la banda, vendrán a crear “un posole de rock” con su buena vibra que pondrán a todos a saltar. Con tan solo 24 anos de edad, los tres integrantes de Neblina, Carlos Garcia, Sergio Estrada-bajista y Daniel Sanchez-baterista, han sabido llevar su pasión por la música a otro nivel y para ellos ha sido un orgullo poder hacer lo que tanto anhelaban desde un principio. Todo empezó cuando eran compañeros en la secundaria y compartían ideas sobre formar un grupo de rock en español y poder expresarse a través de su música en su lenguaje natal. Oficialmente, Neblina se formo en Septiembre del 2002, cuando el afán de los chicos los animó a salir a tocar y dejarse conocer. Según Carlos, la música de Neblina “definitivamente ha evolucionado en cuestiones de genero,” ya que al iniciar la banda, tocaban mas pop rock; por consiguiente, no se sentían satisfechos con ese detalle, y concluyeron en agregarle mas de la personalidad de ambos. Después decidieron cambiar el género de su música

a “hard rock,” y así meterle más gritos y guitarrazos para alcanzar el sonido que ellos deseaban. Carlos aseguro que hay muchas bandas que han influenciado su gusto por la música, pero las principales que han inspirado a Neblina han sido grupos como Caifanes, Los Lobos, Rage Against the Machine, Black Sabbath y Slayer. Los primeros anos establecidos como banda, pusieron los pies en la tierra e hicieron el intento de tocar canciones de sus ídolos en bares y lugares pequeños para obtener popularidad en Los Angeles y cuidades cercanas. Al notar el interés y apoyo del público, lograron crecer y expandirse profesionalmente. El resultado fue asombroso, puesto que han sido bien recibidos en California, en varias cuidades de Texas, inclusive en México. En el transcurso de su carrera, han llegado a compartir escenario con Jumbo, Molotov, Los Amigos Invisibles, Bersuit, y para añadirle a la lista, hasta se han presentaron en el grandioso “Sunset Strip Music Festival,” un evento tributo a los artistas que surgieron en los anos 80’s y 90’s, y que se llevo a cabo en junio 26 del 2008. Neblina fue la primera banda del género del rock que estreno el estudio de grabaciones Gomez Digital para grabar su primer álbum titulado “Otra Realidad,” que lanzaron en Agosto del 2006. Los chicos de Neblina me comentaron que quedaron contentos con los resultados de la producción y el sonido del más reciente Álbum. “Las canciones en este álbum son variadas y cada una de ellas tiene su

12 Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009

Live En Vivo: Quien se encarga a componer las canciones? Carlos de Neblina: Las letras siempre las escribo yo, pero la música siempre viene por medio de los tres ya que nos ponemos de acuerdo a acomodar las canciones cuando ensayamos. LEV: Cuales son algunos de los temas de la canciones que vienen en el álbum, “Otra Realidad”? C: Hay una variedad de temas. Por ejemplo, “Otra Realidad” que cubre el tema la destrucción del mundo por guerras, violencia y decisiones que afectan a todos, y quisimos crear conciencia. Hay Dos canciones que son dedicadas a las mujeres de Juárez que son inocentes y victimas de abuso y homicidio: una titulada “me matan” y otra titulada “Un ave que no vuela.” “Revolucionarios” se la dedicamos a nuestra gente para que no se olviden de donde vienen, para que so se olviden de su cultura, y para crear conciencia sobre la historia de Emiliano Zapata. “Robot” es una canción que habla sobre los problemas de uno y como fácilmente toman control de nuestras vidas que parecemos robots. LEV: Veo que la mayoría de los temas de sus canciones hablan sobre educar y crear conciencia de algo. Que les ha motivado a escribir de estos temas? C: Nos gusto la idea de tocar en español por lo mismo, para apoyar el rock latino. Mucha gente se olvida de donde vienen y hasta su lenguaje natal no lo quieren hablar. Por ejemplo, Cuando iba a la escuela en el Valle de San Fernando, habían muchos gringos y en una clase en particular, havia una muchacha Mexicana. Entonces yo le pregunte algo en español y me comento que ella no sabia hablar español y me respondió en ingles. Sin embargo, la chava era medio racista. Mi punto es que mucha gente que vive aquí en los Estados Unidos pierde su cultura Mexicana y para nosotros es muy importante ese detalle; expresarnos a través de nuestra música y crear

conciencia sobre nuestra historia y cultura.

LEV: Cuales son los planes para el próximo álbum? C: Ahora vamos a empezar a trabajar en otras doce canciones, pero todavía no tenemos los títulos de los nombres ni mucho menos el nombre del disco, pero los temas son algo parecido a las previas. LEV: Para cuando piensan lanzar el nuevo álbum? C: Más o menos en Septiembre o quizás Octubre de este ano. LEV: Han grabado videos para el lanzamiento del disco Otra Realidad? C: Si, tenemos dos videos musicales. Grabamos un video profesional para “Robot” en el 2007 en Hollywood y otro que fue grabado en el 2003 por nosotros mismos en cámara de video regular para la canción “Esta Sociedad.” LEV: Han pensado en agregarle más instrumentos o integrantes a su música? C: Hace como tres anos estábamos buscando un guitarrista, pero ahora no. Creo que el rock consiste en la voz, la guitarra, el bajo, y la batería por que así se escucha más natural y para nosotros en estos momentos no es necesario agregarle más instrumentos. LEV: Tienen planes en hacer algún dueto, o grabar con otros músicos? C: Un dueto suena bien. En un futuro queremos hacer algo con Javier Batíz, un buen amigo que es como tío para nosotros y lo admiramos mucho porque el es el padre del rock Mexicano. LEV: Como sienten el movimiento rockero y el apoyo de la gente en Los Angeles o en otros cuidades donde se han presentado? C: La gente ya sabe quien somos en Los Angeles. Donde sea que vamos a tocar, la gente siempre les interesa saber que les podemos ofrecer. Creo que estamos bien establecidos porque cuando se llena el lugar. El ambiente rockero en Los Angeles es mas alternativo, pero la raza nos responde bien, y mucho mejor cuando salimos a tocar hacia el norte como en Salinas, Monterrey, y San Jose. LEV: Tienen tiempos específicos que se ponen de acuerdo a ensayar o es algo espontáneo? C: Siempre planeamos los ensayos. Somos puntuales y tratamos de ser profesionales en este aspecto porque para

para nosotros la banda es muy importante por que queremos mejorar y sobresalir. Has de cuenta que somos una familia. LEV: Si pudieran hacer un cambio en la banda, ya sea su música, instrumentos o integrantes, que seria y por que? C: Cada día estamos perfectamente bien. Musicalmente vamos creciendo más y más y personalmente no creo que cambiaríamos nada por ahora. LEV: Cual ha sido el mayor desafió que se topado y como lo han vencido? C: El único desafió como banda ha sido la falta de dinero por que todo viene de nuestros bolsillos. Pero lo que hacemos es que de las mismas tocadas, sacamos dinero para el grupo como para posters, CD’s y camisas. LEV: Cual seria tu consejo a bandas principiantes? C: El consejo más importante que les daría a cualquiera de las bandas es que les pongan mucho empeño y ganas a la música, saber lo que quieren y principalmente, creer en ellos mismos. Sergio de Neblina: Pues yo les diría lo mismo, que sigan echándole ganas a todo lo que empiezan y que lo tomen enserio si es algo que se ven haciendo por mucho tiempo.

LEV: A quien quisieran darles las gracias por su apoyo a la banda? C: Queremos agradecerle a nuestras familias por el gran apoyo que nos han dado. A nuestro Manager, Christian Mejia, y a todos los fans. A la gente de Salinas, Monterrey, San Jose, Fresno, y Visalia. También a los fans de España y otros países que compran nuestra música por itunes. Uno de los objetivos de Neblina para este ano es viajar y hacer un recorrido en las afueras de Los Angeles y otras cuidades al norte de California. También aseguraron que se estarán dirigiendo por tierras Tejanas muy pronto. Otro plan que esta en su lista de “cosas por hacer,” es viajar a otros países tales como presentarse en Argentina, Chile, y Brasil para dejarse conocer por esos rumbos. Si te gustaria conocer escuchar la música Neblina, puedes entrar a la pagina: www.myspace.com/ neblinarocks para informarte sobre los próximos eventos de la banda. “La música en si es universal y no importa de donde sea, si es en Español o en Ingles,” agrego Carlos al final de la entrevista. myspace.com/neblinarocks View this article in english at www.liveenvivo.coms

Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009 13

Band ShowCase

Showcasing the best music of Monterey Bay Gravity is a completely different journey that could be likened to spiraling through intergalactic fractals, slightly science-fiction-esq. and also weirdly provocative. It’s hard to imagine any voyage quite like this symphony of sounds, and what better vehicle to provide the ride than Moon Cadillac. myspace.com/mooncadillac

Photo By Scott Mcdonald

Moon Cadillac

Cali Nation

Santa Cruz

Salinas By Rose F.M

By Rose F.M

rosefellmo@gmail.com

oon Cadillac is a bright representation of (exactly) what it sounds like. Our band members are from Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz is like, let’s get weirdness, y’know- the sky is clear, you can see the stars-that’s where the Moon comes from. Cadillac(represents) smoothness and finesse, not only in the physical sense but also in our music,” said Rick Alexander, singer for Moon Cadillac. The up-and-coming Santa Cruz band could be described as a mix of electronica, rock, and pop. Yet, they pride themselves on the fact that they have fans whose taste in music is largely varied. “ If people feel happy, angry, sad, as long as they’re feeling something, we’re doing our job.” Rick Alexander professed. Moon Cadillac has been a band for the past 2 ½ years, and they’re going places. About to begin recording their first full-length album in May, they’re just as energetic as their music. After their studio time, they will start right away playing shows again in June. Moon Cadillac are a jovial group of fellows, whom upon talking to for the first time, make it seem like you’ve known them for years. “ We wanna take a fat dump on Morrissey,” said Alexander, laughingly

projecting utter disdain for the artist (who recently abandoned stage, and his fans at Coachella due to the fact that he couldn’t stand the smell of barbecue). “ We want to make what we love a job, and encourage people to do what they love,” guitar player Shahin quickly added, taking the heat off of Alexander’s joke. They are a band that adore their fans and the central coast, but have very high goals in mind, hoping to eventually tour the world someday. Their website proudly proclaims “EARGASM” in gigantic pink text. “Eargasm,” described guitar player Shahin, “it’s what we’ve heard through friends and close fans. One fan told us that’s the closest thing they can compare us to.” It makes sense to compare their music to the highest form of auditory pleasure, because by listening to them, one is taken on an otherworldly expedition into the future, or maybe just the unknown. Their song Sexual Etiquette is beautiful. Alexander’s voice is something exquisite-hitting all kinds of crazy high notes, but maintaining a wondrous smoothness, like a Cadillac maybe. But, as the name of the song implies, there is a spacey sexiness to be heard. Listening conjures some kind of crazy, urban, chemical bubbling of desire in one’s mind. Their song Zero

14 Live En Vivo Magazine May 2009

Cali Nation is a band that produces positive, feel-good, reggae, dub-style rock and promotes green sensibilities. Not green like the current environmental craze, a different kind of green. Their track, Hit Song, has a double layered meaning. “ Here’s your hit song, to help you to forget all your problems.” The song is wonderfully catchy and could be described as a hit in the musical sense, but it also encourages taking a hit, as it were. Their lyrics in general seem to promote having a good time, relaxing and enjoying life. They hail from Salinas and have quite a following after years in the local scene. One of their songs is called Salinas and is an ode to the Central California city. Coming from an area that has seen much gang-related-violence, and unrest, they have an ability to calm nerves and create serenity through music. Vocalist Andrew Nack possesses a unique talent. His voice sounds gritty as sandpaper, but retains the ability to cast sweet melodies soothing enough to quell a panic attack. Mony Lujan creates bass that bumps, and makes it difficult for a body to be stationary. If guitar riffs were comparable to nature, guitarist James Moore would be crafting summer breezes, lightening storms, and under-water ocean currents. Some of their songs are happy-go-lucky, and others seem more intent on relaying a message. Through their lyrics

they tackle important issues such as questioning authority, morality, and of course, partying. The feeling that Cali Nation sends through their music are vibes of happiness and peace, something we could all use a little bit more of. www.myspace.com/calination

The Mystery Lights Salinas By Rose F.M rosefellmo@gmail.com The first time I heard the Mystery Lights was over a year ago when they played a show at the Black Box Cabaret at CSUMB. To say that I was shocked would be an understatement. I was knocked off of my feet. It felt lik I was transported in a time machine to a bygone era when rock-n-roll floated upon the hopes and dreams of a psychedelically influenced hippie-nation, when there was a war overseas. Much unhappiness surrounded the war, as lives, and trust in the government, were lost. Yet, with all the destruction, music at the time inversely constructed a new livelihood. People who thought they lost hope, found it again through some of the most wonderful bands and artists of all time. The Mystery Lights gave me that same feeling. I was stuck in a rut, less than thrilled about the new music I had been hearing for a time. Then they came along and lit my life back up so swiftly and unexpectedly, it was like a burning chandelier fell on my head. Mystery Lights come from Salinas and are one of those bands that cannot just be stuffed into any old genre. They are influenced by so many various styles. Psychedelic rock, grunge, punk, and blues are just a few of the ingredients which make up the masterfully delicious dish that The Mystery Continued next page

serve with unrestrained fury to hungry ears. Singer and guitarist Mike Brandon has the voice of a rock god so powerful, one would never guess by listening that he is only 19 years old. Going to see them live is as exciting as skydiving into the middle of a bullfight in Madrid. The entire band exudes such a force through their instruments that you can literally feel the energy through their C.D. They just released their first album Teenage Catgirls and the Mystery Lightshow. myspace.com/teenagecatgirlsthemysterylightshow

intentions. The first song I heard from them was called Ride Home. The song is like a mixture of Sublime and some old time Rock and Roll guitars. At one point I almost felt like Michael J. Fox was about to pop out of the song and become Marty on Back to the Future. The concept of the song was raw and took us through the experience of finding a girl in his bed and then telling her he could give her a ride home if she stayed with him that night. The next song was called 3 Drunken Cowboys. It started out as if were going to have a heavier sound, but then it eased back into becoming that bouncy and

scopic doubt, the song titled Maxi was the highlight of this band. It’s one of those songs that displays’ the potential of a band. The direction of F.U.B.A.R can be simply described by this song. On the parts of the song where they unleashed their heavy side they almost sounded like Rage. On this song they came off really comfortable, natural and clear. They jumped from those deep bassy guitar rifts, to that pocket filled party jamming they seemed most akin to. The vocals came off really genuine and intense on the hooks where he explains that the promiscuous girl Maxi always ends up coming right back to him. At the end of the song, almost as a hidden track, there is a slower tempo 15 second instrumental version of the song. That was cool and it reminded me of those mystery tracks I used to search for in records. All music begins somewhere. All music gives birth to another. On the production side of things, F.U.B.A.R. was young and inexperienced, but that is nothing that can’t be corrected. Overall I was able to capture something in them that made me curious enough to find out what they what they would do with the next song. Obviously a young band, their musicianship will need to improve as well in order to reach that next level. Still, there is passion in being creative and that freedom is what all of us need to believe in. Let’s take F.U.B.A.R for what they are. An aspiring local band showing signs of life in the strange pixels of a bigger picture.

the story to new heights. As Devlin croons, the instruments begin to have a conversation with the past through his lyrics. Just when you thought you

could easily define Beezle, they switch everything up. They are completely unpredictable, effortlessly switching from rapid angry tempos, to velvety soft rhythms. The song Only Everything blasts rocking guitar licks that sound like sparkling, if sparkling were audible, and sudden upbeat ska-like riffs. Beezle released their EP, Criminals Are Made Not Born on April 16th at Monterey Live. Myspace.com/beezle

www.myspace.com/fubarmusic www.cafubar.com

Beezle

Monterey By Rose F.M

F.U.B.A.R Santa Cruz by Adrian Navarez

traight from Northern California there is an interesting band called F.U.B.A.R. The meaning of that acronym tells us that this band either likes to get extremely faded on one or many stupefying substance, or it gives us an insight into how they see the state of the world today. Either way, their youth is expressed in their music portraying exactly the spirit of Rock & Roll. It was obvious that their influence lies more in Reggae, but they brought out their Rock shoes enough to expose rougher elements in their

carefree style of theirs. Then heavy breakdowns offered a bit of contrast driving the song’s concept. This song described themselves as three drunken cowboys getting intoxicated on a typical night in California. The Waves Crashed Down needed some more work, but I did understand where they wanted to go with it. This one had a darker feel with a melancholic touch over a popish hook. This song evoked their perspective on how dark things can get in ones life. We could all relate to the fact that sometimes things seem twisted and the world lonely. I thought it was cool how the song explained that after everything, when we get to wherever home is, were just ready to leave again. Without even a micro-

eezle sounds like it would be the love-child of a bee and a weasel, but they are actually a 5-piece rock and roll band local to Monterey. Beezle’s sound is reminiscent of alternative 90’s rock. Longing, harsh tones turn into glimmers of seductive sweet sounding melodies before plunging back into the abrasive, yet likeable reality of the melancholy they portray. Rob Devlin, vocalist, through songs such as Texas and Bleed With Me, is storytelling, and many of the stories he sings tell of heartbreak and sadness. It’s like looking through a photo album of someone’s life, but the album is something that is heard first and then seen, once Devlin paints the picture. The words draw the listener into the story and then the music takes

Live En Vivo Online Latest News, Gigs, And Events Updated Daily www.liveenvivo.com myspace.com/liveenvivo

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