supercut APRIL 2018
EDITOR’S NOTE.
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A few months ago, I found myself bored with school and work and everything else I had going on in life and I thought, “hey, what if I made a magazine?”. Here we are, two months later - Issue No. 1 of Supercut Magazine is here. I personally want to thank all of the musicians and artists I reached out to for this first issue - thank you for responding to my emails and believing in a tiny magazine with an odd name. The music and live show community continues to play an incredibly large role in my life, and I am extremely excited to be able to share that with you all in this first issue.
instagram: @supercutmag twitter: @supercutmag
- lauren armao founder, photographer, editor-in-chief
ine’s a m the ga m o o fr atlanta, t o h a p ow in sh
special thanks to GRMLN Henry James Patterson No Aloha Issa Cohen CJ Moy Erika Osborne Melodic Magazine Madeline Stephen
CONTENTS. music playlist ten bands for spring GRMLN henry james patterson no aloha art issa cohen cj moy erika osborne photos final thoughts good listening playlist
01 02 03 05 08 09 12 13 17 21 23 35 36 38
Front cover + photos at left: Leighton of Lydia, shot by Lauren Armao, Back cover: Matt of Fever Blush, shot by Lauren Armao
music.
playlist
suburban boy - faze wave dive - coast modern sun tan - wallows blue lagoon - grmln yes i’m changing - tame impala warm glow - hippo campus symmetry - colouring vanilla - flipturn fake love - fv breakfast - anteros the smallest light - daisyhead all you do is talk - black rebel motorcycle club swimming - lunar vacation resonance - home love somebody like you - joan berenstein - the band camino breaking free - night riots bloomfield - super whatevr generation me - grlmn lovesick - peace
curated by lauren armao. 02
ten bands for spring
faze wave
wallows
Do you ever come across a band that makes you just want to shout to anyone and everyone about how amazing they are? That’s Wallows for me. Although they only have five songs in their discography, they’ve become one of my favorite bands over the last few months. Warm fuzzy vocals combine with a feel good alt-rock sound. Listen to “sun tan” once (find it on our playlist on page __!) and you’ll be obsessed.
lunar vacation
This band will melt in your ears. Self-described “pool rock”, this local band from Atlanta, GA has us all desperately awaiting a follow-up to their previous EP. They might still be in high school, but the quartet have got their dreamy sound perfected. 03
swmrs
These are the guys with that ohso recognizeable album cover with the girl pulling down her lip to reveal the album’s title, Drive North, tattooed. SWMRS are one hell of a band - and the same can be said for Drive North. Although it was released nearly two years ago, the album is still a great listen (and we hope those two years have been filled with writing more music!). Is it possible for punchy punk rock to mesh with a laid back California skatepark vibe? SWMRS shows us that yes, it is.
I guarantee, from the first few notes of “makeout” you’ll be hooked. The four piece alternative-indie group from Jacksonville, Florida make songs dripping with dreamy nostalgia. After an EP and a debut album titled “Melt”, in 2016, the band went on an east coast tour all the way up through New York City. This year, they’re back at it again, releasing two new singles in January and hitting the road again.
fv
FV gives vintage sound a modern taste, with notes of melancholia thrown in. Another band with only four songs to their name, each one deserves a spot on your playlist - you may find yourself hitting repeat over and over again.
joan
wife situation
hardcastle Joan is your new favorite dream-pop duo. They gained loads of traction in 2017 with the release of a few singles - their most recent release in December.
hunny
Hunny is by far my favorite band I discovered last year. After forming in 2015, they’ve released two EP’s and a handful of singles. Each song is just so, so good. Alternative synth-rock combines with a distinct So-Cal sound that will take your earbuds on a roadtrip of their own.
Indie synth-pop group Hardcastle have gained quite a following in cities like Atlanta and Nashville, but they’re still incredibly underrated. They just released a new single titled “What You Want”, a perfect showcase of their eclectic indie sound. They’re also incredibly interactive and personal with their fans on social media platforms like twitter, which is just another reason why Hardcastle deserves recognition.
Wife Situation is the brainchild of California-based Phillip Stillwell. “Check me out while you’re cryin like a big baby over something” his bandcamp bio reads. With all of his songs recorded alone in his bedroom, the music almost has a haunting, hazy quality to it - but in the best way possible.
coast modern
Coast Modern is pop music that isn’t pop music, and electronic music that isn’t electronic music. There’s really no other way to describe it - unless you want to take their defenition: “weird”. Whatever it is, it’s upbeat, unique, and just plain fun. Catch the duo on tour this spring!
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GRMLN
We got to interview Yoodoo Park of GRMLN about how he got started, the new album, and more.
What made you want to start making music? I started recording in high school because I didn’t have any friends and was bored. Where did the name GRMLN come from? I came up with the name because it captured how I felt about my self at the time I made my first songs for this band. How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before? My songs are more focused on songwriting at the moment. How has traveling back and forth from Japan to Southern California influenced your sound? Which place do you feel more connected to? I actually live in between Japan and America at the moment, so having a different atmosphere every few months definitely gives me a fresh perspective on the sounds I try to make while recording at home.
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You just released a single, ‘Angel’, which will appear on an album coming out this year. (We absolutely love it). Can you give us any details about the new album? When it will be released, what it will sound like, the process of writing and recording, etc. The new album I’m releasing this year focuses a lot more on my stylistic recording. It’s more based around the songwriting opposed to my earlier albums that I recorded at the studio. But I realized that I really prefer recording myself rather than to rely on others to get the sound I want. You’ve been making music as GRLMN for about 6 years now. How do you think your sound has evolved over time? How has going from a solo project to adding additional band members changed the dynamic of GRMLN? GRMLN has always been a project that I make the songs for myself, so having people play the songs live with me has been fun, but I’m a lot more focused on recording more album at the moment.
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There are a plethora of new bands coming up in the Southern California scene - what sets GRMLN apart? I actually wish I knew more bands coming out in California but I just like making albums and not sure what else is out there really, kinda in my own world. Are there any plans for live shows or a tour in 2018? Hopefully. Speed round: Favorite song to play live? Covers Favorite show you’ve ever played? McAllen, Texas Vinyl or digital? Vinyl fosho.
Instagram: @yoodoopark
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HENRY JAMES PATTERSON
Henry James Patterson is about to be your new favorite one-man-band. We talked to him about his music influences, the recording process, and his plans for 2018.
When did you start playing music? what made you decide you wanted to start releasing it?
I started playing music when I was 4 years old. Beat boxing, banging on pots and pans, and humming/yelling. Taught myself guitar in 7th grade. Took guitar lessons briefly back in 2nd grade, lessons didn’t inspire me much. I’ve also since taught myself how to sing, write, play bass, and drum. I got Garageband in 8th grade and realized I wanted to release music just like my favorite bands. So I’ve been recording, arranging, producing, etc. ever since!
Who are your biggest influences?
Instagram: @henryjamespatterson
My sound has been influenced by tons of artists/bands. My policy is keep your mind open. Whether it’s RnB or Country, Vinyl or Digital, New York or LA, there’s something beautiful in everything, and you never know what kind of opportunities may come! Right now I’m super into Michael McDonald, Chet Baker, John Mayer, Norah Jones, and even some Bruno Mars.
What’s your favorite song on the Calvalier EP?
My favorite song on my EP “Cavalier” is either “Windbreaker” or “Wildflower.” I recorded The Cavalier EP almost completely by myself in my family’s basement when I was 16 years old. I’m 19 now, so it’s time for me to show everyone what I’ve got baby!
The EP was one of our favorites of 2017. What can we expect in 2018?
In 2018 you can expect new music! I’m recording my first full-length album right now. You can only hear these new songs at my live shows so I’m excited to finally share them with everybody online! I’m also playing a lot, both solo and with my live band. Staying busy, trying to get my music out there! 08
NO ALOHA We asked Montreal-based band No Aloha about their signature sound, a very busy 2017, and more.
How did you all meet? What made you guys want to start a band? We’ve all been living in Montreal for years and playing music in the same scenes. The band actually changed members this past year. Patrick (guitarist and vocalist) and Bobby (bassist) joined last year after our dear bandmates Fraser and Andrew moved to Victoria and Seoul, respectively. Marshall (our drummer) and I (Ben, guitarist and vocalist) met a few years ago at his loft apartment. He and his partner had a big cheap loft with no heating and they were renting it out as a rehearsal space for other musicians. Marshall and Patrick are both accomplished recording engineers and worked at the local college radio station together. Bobby and Patrick used to play in a band called Small Teeth together. We all love garage, psychedelic, and postpunk music.
Where did the name No Aloha come from? We got it from The Breeders’ song of the same name.
How would you describe your sound to someone who’s never heard you before? I would say it’s a blend of 60s and 90s psychedelic music, garage music, and post punk music. Lots of guitars, lots of catchy melodies, lots of fun.
You guys were really on a roll last year, releasing two albums and a few singles. Are you going to be just as busy this year? What can we expect?
We’re really fortunate to have two(!) recording engineers in the band, and a small studio as a rehearsal space. We like to work quickly. We’ve never been short on songs. We have a four song EP called “Cigarettes For Optimists” coming out on March 2nd, and a full album we’re recording in a cabin in the woods this week that will be out later this year. 09
Listening to No Problemo took me straight to a beach in SoCal. I was surprised to learn you guys were from Montreal! What or who would you say influences your sound?
When we recorded No Problemo three of the four members were from the west coast, so that definitely had a big influence on our writing. We all love the Beach Boys, and that hazy west coast psychedelic pop sound. It was pop music being played too fast by people getting too little sunshine.
Speed round: Vinyl or digital?
Ben: Digital on the walk home, vinyl when I get home. Bobby: These days digital, I still buy music and vinyl can be pricey. Marshall: Digital. Convenience. Patrick: Pass
Who are some bands/artists you’re really into right now? Ben: Mauno, Sarah Davachi Bobby: Exploded View, Willie Nelson Marshall: Grateful Dead, Migos
Patrick: Godspeed You! Black Emporere, Paysage d’Hiver
Dream city anywhere in the world to play a show in? Ben: Buenos Aires Bobby: New Orleans Patrick: Raykjavik Marshall: Sydney
No Aloha just released their follow-up EP on March 2nd, titled “Cigarettes For Optimists”. Check it out! Instagram: @noalohamtl 10
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art.
ISSA COHEN
How long have you been creating art?
We spoke with artist Issa Cohen about her work, how it consides with music, and her advice for young artists.
I’ve been creating art for as long as I can remember, actually I still have the very first sketchbook I ever filled from when I was a kid; I sometimes go back and look at all the drawings and laugh about how bad they were!
What/who inspires you to create?
Music has always been one of the main source of inspirations, as I usually draw band members or lyric based art – bands such Neck Deep, Waterparks, Seaway, Paramore, Movements and so many more to name. Lyricism has always been super important to me. Since I’m such a visual person, whenever I listen to a song in which I feel a connection to, I can’t help but plan out drawings in my mind before it’s even over. Music is very important in my creative process, and it’s safe to say that it’s my main source of inspiration for sure.
Were you self-taught or did you go to any sort of art school?
As a kid, I did art camp for a month, but it’s ironic that I hated it. One thing about my art process is I hate when people tell me what to create. Art is supposed to be a personal process, so being told what to draw never sat well with me. So that being said, everything I taught was self learnt!
What medium of art do you enjoy the most?
I love digital art the most. It’s what I’m most comfortable with! 13
Follow Issa: Twitter: @neckdeepmp3 Insagram: @sohiart
We absolutely loved watching the flip-through video of the art book you made for Neck Deep. What made you want to dedicate so much of your art to the band?
Thank you so much! I appreciate the kind words about the video. Neck Deep has been my favorite band for around 5 and a half years of my life, so they’ve been a presence in which has followed me through my ups and downs, thus being my most influential “muse”. Neck Deep has been some of the most powerful people I’ve listened to personally, so naturally, my creativity tends to flow in their direction. That being said, the fact that I create so much art for that band is sort of my way of saying thank you for all they’ve done for me, since I’ve never had the chance to say it in person.
What are some other bands you’ve done pieces of?
I’ve done some pieces of Paramore, Waterparks, PVRIS, Homesafe, State Champs, Movements, Speak Low If You Speak Love, and many more!
What is your favorite piece you’ve ever done?
Oh, that’s a tough one! I’ve recently made a Waterparks piece based off of their new release of their album Entertainment, and I’m super proud of it – a lot of time and effort was put into it!.
Who are some artists you look up to?
There are so many fantastic artists I look up to, especially on Instagram: @notangryanymore @asia.ptv @claurb @pvppetsart @withthesky and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! There are so many talented artists out there that I look up to, it’d be impossible for me to name them all, but those are some of my favourites! 14
How do you balance school or work (or anything else that takes up your time) with art?
As a college student, I often find myself surrounded in school work and studies which can be overwhelming. I usually give myself at least 30 minutes a day just to have “down time” and just draw, since drawing is a stress reliever for me. At times when I have school piling up and work, it can be difficult, but I make sure that I allow myself some time in order to decompress and relax so I don’t burn out!
You also design tattoos for people. What is it like to know your artwork is permanently etched onto someone else’s skin?
Oh boy! I love designing tattoos for people. It’s an incredible feeling that people enjoy my art enough to get it tattooed on their bodies forever! It’s an incredible honor and I’m always super excited to work on a tattoo with a client. Of course, it comes with an insane amount of pressure, but the way I organize my experience with the customer assures that they’re alongside the creative process every step of the way to ensure that they get the tattoo they love!
Any advice for young artists?
Honestly, if you love to do art, do it. There are no rules in art – it’s all about self-expression! So if you love to creWho’s on your playlist right ate art, just go for it. Do what you love! Don’t feel conformed by a certain now? “style” or “aesthetic”! Also, you don’t I’ve got the new Waterparks album Enterneed a crazy expensive setup. Whatevtainment on repeat, Vacation by Seaway, er supplies you have, you can make the The Peace and The Panic by Neck Deep, best of it! Don’t feel intimidated by all Sidewinder by Stand Atlantic, Underworld the expensive materials! I recommend by Tonight Alive, Eternity, In Your Arms by Creeper and so many more, but those have Instagram for a good basis platform for your pieces. been my favorite recently. 15
CJ MOY
Currently roadtripping with the band DREAMERS, CJ answered some questions about photography, touring, and made us a playlist.
How did you get started?
Photography was my gateway into the industry. That was the skill I could offer to bands while learning how to run a show. I did a lot of behind the scenes music photography whenever I was home from college. Senior year was when I realized I was hungry to do more than shoot. The spring before graduation, I started a music festival on campus. Mainland was one of the bands I booked. My advisor knew how important this was to me, and turned a blind eye to my day of show prep. I packed some rolling luggage with a few cases of pabst and whiskey, quietly making the greenroom artist friendly. I bonded with Mainland that night and started working with their manager a month later.
If you could only shoot in black and white or color for the rest of your life, which would you choose and why? Color because I see in color.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about your job?
A big misconception about touring is that there are no bad days on the road. Band and crew – we’re all still human. It can be mentally and physically taxing, and vibes fluctuate. I think the bands that will succeed are the ones that can work through daily struggles together, always look out for each other, and have a team that genuinely cares. This is why I still enjoy doing what I do.
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What’s your ride or die piece of gear? iPhone.
Who’s your dream band to work with? Stillwater.
Any funny, strange, or embarrassing stories from on the road?
We were staying in a small town in Nevada for the night. Jacob, Travis (our sound engineer), and I met two cops at a local bar who insisted we take a tour of the sketchy local brothel. We complied, to not be impolite. A friendly employee showed us around and she explained the theme of each room. The Area 51 alien one was pretty neat.
What’s your favorite photo you’ve ever taken? My college basketball team allowed me to document their entire game day like I would for a band. For most of the night, our team was trailing behind our league rivals, and the halftime locker room shots were somber. By some miracle, they recovered 16 points and won the game. My favorite photo is from their emotional post-game celebration.
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Tell us something surprising about yourself. I will smile, if you buy me a shot of tequila.
What’s one goal you have that isn’t photography/career related?
To be better at checking in on friends and family that I don’t see everyday and let them know I care while they’re still around.
Do you have any advice for young photographers, particularly young concert photographers? Learn how to write well, don’t obsess with gear, drink whiskey, don’t linger, sit down, be humble, ask for photo passes after buying a ticket to the show first
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Make us a ten song playlist of songs you can’t stop listening to right now. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
On the Wall – Niko Rose Spirit – Future Island oh baby – LCD Soundsystem Party Police – Alvvays I Know You – Broncho Shark Smile – Big Thief Old Friends – Pinegrove The Next Time Around – Little Joy
9.
Villains – Mainland
10. Last Love Song – DREAMERS
What’s the most unbelievable thing that’s ever happened to you? They made me promise never to tell.
Follow CJ: Instagram: @satchmo cjmoyphoto.com 20
ERIKA OSBORNE When did you first get into photography? When did it turn from a hobby to a business?
@erikaxosborne We caught up with Atlanta based photographer Erika to talk to how she got started, how she stands out, and more.
I first started getting interested in photography when I was in 9th grade. I got my first iPhone for Christmas that year (it was a 4s) and I thought the camera quality was insane. I would take pictures of literally anything and everything. From there I just spent a lot of time on instagram and found a lot of cool photographers and loved what they were creating and realized I wanted to be like that. The next year I got my first camera for Christmas (a Canon Rebel t3i and a kit lens) and the rest is history. I still consider photography to be more of a hobby for me than a business. But I guess it started when people around school found out about my work and asked me if I would take their photos. Once I realized people thought I was good enough to pay me, it turned into a business and my way of making money.
Where are your favorite places to shoot in ATL?
It’s honestly really hard for me to find places to shoot in Atlanta. Most of my best photos aren’t taken in the heart of Atlanta. My favorite photo was actually taken at my high school about 30 minutes south.
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Who are some photographers and artists you look up to? My absolute favorite photographers are Allegra Messina (@messinaphotos), Jessica Kobeissi (@jessicakobeissi), Krissy Saleh (@krissy) and one of my good friends Rachel Shoppy (@at.las_).
What’s your favorite photo you’ve ever taken? As I said before, my favorite photo was taken of my best friend Mikaela on the tennis court of my old high school. The lighting and the colors were just perfect.
What are some of the challenges of being a younger photographer in the Atlanta scene? In a place that is so saturated with other photographers, how do you make yourself stand out? On top of being a full time student, the hardest part about being a young photographer in Atlanta is people don’t take me very seriously. People tend to associate age with professionalism, and because I’m only 19, it’s hard to be looked at as “professional”. In all honesty I don’t consider myself a professional, but I think I’m a lot more than people give me credit for.
I guess I make myself stand out with how I conceptualize my shoots. I personally like the editorial/film type of look whereas many photographers just focus on lifestyle portraiture.
Who’s on your playlist right now?
My playlist will always have Lorde on it. But other than her I love Charli XCX. And sometimes I love to tone it down and just shuffle any type of “chill” playlist Spotify has it their mood browser. 22
photos.
all photos by lauren armao @laurenarmao | laurenarmao.com
moose blood
moose blood
moose blood
fever blush
fever blush
mccafferty
lydia
mom jeans
tiny moving parts
moose blood
moose blood
final thoughts.
good listening hot flash heat wave
San-Fransisco surf pop-rock group Hot Flash Heat Wave are a band your playlists have been waiting for. Last summer, they released their latest album, titled Soaked, a mix of dream-pop, groovy melodies, and catchy guitar riffs. Their 2015 debut, Neapolitan, isn’t to be ignored either - with standout tracks like Gutter Girl (fans of Weezer will be all over this one) and Bathroom Song, it’ll win you over in seconds.
sure sure
Sure Sure are currently roadtripping with Hippo Campus on their first national US tour. The group recently released a brand new self-titled album in January, as a follow up to a plethora of singles released in 2016-2017 and an EP in 2016. The album is absolutely fantastic - and just what we’ve wanted to hear from the guys. Self-described as “exprimental pop music”, Sure Sure is sure to find fans in indie, alternative, and pop music lovers alike. Make sure to see them in your city this spring!
colouring
You might already know of Colouring if you keep up with The 1975 - they were the opening act for parts of the North American Tour in 2016. With an electropop sound that’s as rhythmic as it is dreamy, Colouring produce music that you could easily hear at a house party or a coffee shop. My personal favorite track is Symmetry, the title track off of their 2016 EP. It’s hard to describe, but it’s a must listen. It’s a very “vibe”-ey song, for lack of a better word. If you’re a fan of joan, The 1975, flor, or The Japanese House, you’ll be a fan of Colouring!
jet black alley cat
With a sound that’s dubbed as “vintage pop rock”, Nashville based Jet Black Alley Cat have been gaining a growing following since their debut release last year, accurately titled Part One. The band also followed up that release with a US Tour. Make sure to keep an eye out for these guys this year - 2017 was a big year, but we have a feeling 2018 is going to be even bigger. 36
the band camino
Dubbed as one of Live Nation’s “Ones to Watch”, The Band CAMINO are just that. The band currently has two EPs out, “Heaven” and “My Thoughts on You”, and plan on releasing another this year. With tracks that range from emotional and powerful to easygoing and chill, you’re sure to find a song for every occassion. If you haven’t listened to these guys yet, you’re seriously missing out. We’re excited to see what The Band CAMINO has in store for 2018.
swimming tapes
Their Spotify bio reads “nostalgic, dreamy guitar music”, and I couldn’t think of a more perfect description. This five-piece from London have gained attention not only abroad but in the US as well, particularly in Los Angeles and New York City. A few singles and two EPS (the latest, Soft Sea Blue, released in 2017) have led up what is going to be a big 2018 for these guys. Expect a new album and a tour!
the frights
A mix of vintage, indie, old school punk rock, and surf are just four of the ingredients that combine into everyone’s favorite new local band. They trio actually formed the band as a joke, but it worked so well that they decided to keep it up. The band currently have a handful of EPs and two full lengths in their discography; the most recent album, You Are Going to Hate This, was released in 2016. The Frights have scored major festival slots this year, including Shaky Knees in Atlanta, GA, which leads fans to believe we may be getting new music soon. Stay tuned.
sleep on it
This is a band called Sleep On It - don’t sleep on it (I had to). The band formed in 2012 in Chicago, and released a handful of singles and EPs before their pop punk sound gained the attention of Equal Vision Records. Their debut studio album, titled Overexposed, was released in November of 2017, which came hand in hand with a US tour. Fans of Real Friends, Like Pacific, and bands of the like will find a new favorite in Sleep On It.
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playlist
genesis (acoustic) - armors live well - palace green - denim hole in the wall - moses gunn collective oversentimental - the wldlfe pleaser - wallows alison - swimming tapes after slice - ivory waves waterfalls - the wldlfe nothing personal - night riots
curated by madeline stephen. 38