Found: Music Uncovered by Found: Music Uncovered Magazine

say it, just say it.... LOVE!!

Matt Nakoa Amy Lynn & The Gunshow Yo Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Booty Band

January 24, 2014 | Winter Issue

special interviews

Katie Jayne Earl of The Mowgli’s

42 The Mowgli’s

f e a tur e s :

28Yo Mama’s Big Booty Band

c o lu m ns:

64Amy Lynn & The Gunshow 96 Matt Nakoa

14-15

Vinyl Roots:

74-77

Reel Music:

Musical Emotions: How does music make you feel?

Review of Hans Zimmer’s rich and soulful soundtrack for 12 Years A Slave.

158-159

Last Call:

Visit The Grey Eagle in Asheville, NC, a diverse and action-packed venue.

r e vi ew s :

16-25

38-39

Coast to Coast 1:

54-61

Coast to Coast 2:

3-Day Pass:

86-93

Coast to Coast 3:

Deaf Poets / Miami Ray Wylie Hubbard / Austin Dem Atlas / Minneapolis The Getaway Drivers / Madison Pinn Panelle / Chicago Tank and the Bangas / New Orleans //GT\\ / Birmingham No Crown / Seattle

Take a trip to hear live music at: Savannah Stopover Music Festival / Savannah, GA Euphoria Fest / Carson Creek Ranch-Austin, TX Beale Street Music Festival / Memphis, TN Carolina Rebellion / Charlotte Motor Speedway, NC

70-71

Ode to the Web:

78-83

Spin-Off/Seasonal Spin:

Favorite app of the month: Propellerhead. www.dustandgrooves.com: Vintage vinyl collectors.

14 album reviews spanning the musical wavelength.

Darling Gunsel / San Francisco Of Verona / Los Angeles Nahko and the Medicine People / Portland Air Dubai / Denver We Be Lions / Omaha Kristen Hemphill / Tulsa Mad Tea Party / Asheville Zhora / Dallas

The Gold Party / Athens Queen Sheba / Atlanta JPRiZM / Boston Susto / Charleston The Coffin Daggers / New York City Jeanne Jolly / Raleigh Caleb Etoile / D.C. Natural Child / Nashville

104-105 A-Side/B-Side:

Get your iPod ready for our staff-compiled playlists.

The Gold Party / Athens Air Dubai / Denver

Jeanne Jolly / Raleigh

Deaf Poets / Miami

111

Rock ‘n’ Roll Radio / Seoul, Korea Farmer John / Saratov, Russia

153

136

Midriff / Walchsee, Austria Sir Watson / Porto, Portugal

108-157

Across the Globe:

Featuring 42 international cities and their rising stars Andre Oltin / Barbados, Lesser Antilles Rock ‘n’ Roll Radio / Seoul, Korea Raul Cazabet / Buenos Aires, Argentina Alice Way / Kaunas, Lithuania The Nymphs / Melbourne, Australia Mezre / Istanbul, Turkey Mika Vember / Vienna, Austria Guy Buttery / Johannesburg, South Africa White Wolf Wandering / Brighton, UK Hanna Meyerholz / Hamburg, Germany Bisz / Poznan, Poland Fire and Whistle Theory / Brisbane, Queensland Noiserv / Lisboa, Portugal Harry Rag / San Juan, Puerto Rico Ondrej Galuska / Prague, Czech Republic Raskatoff Blues / Kostroma, Russia L For Vendetta / Delhi, India Rowan J. Edwards / Sunshine Coast, Queensland Mongoose / Dublin, Ireland Direwolf / Sydney, Australia The 7 Frogs / Athens, Greece

155

A Band Called Wanda / Cork, Ireland Hunter and the Bear / London, UK Wake Owl / Edmonton, Canada Farmer John / Saratov, Russia The Bartenders / Warsaw, Poland Pink Studio / Zagreb, Croatia Fish Memory / Mallorca, Spain Ballet School / Berlin, Germany Rie Fu / Tokyo, Japan Adi Ulmansky / Tel Aviv, Israel Badda Boo and Happy Band / Crimea, Ukraine Moustache Prawn / Messina, Italy Yooko / Bogotá, Colombia Chapter 2 / Tralee, Ireland Altavista / St. Petersburg, Russia Segere Perrere / Belo Horizonte, Brazil Motis, Chamorro & Traver / Barcelona, Catalonia The Boy That Got Away / Aarhus, Denmark Midriff / Walchsee, Austria Irene Ghiotto / Schio, Italy Sir Watson / Porto, Portugal

FOUND: Music Uncovered

Winter Issue: 2014

http://www.thisisnoteworthy.com/mediaplatforms/foundmagazine/

Chief Creative/Editor-In-Chief Becca Finley editor@themusicinitiative.com

“Break-up Songs”

Staff Writers: Becca Finley, Justin Henderson, Ryn McAtee, Amanda Muirhead, Grayson Sandford, Sadie Skeels, Joel Travis, TJ Weaver, Peter Williams Managing Editor: Sadie Skeels managingeditor@themusicinitiative.com

te Pe

- w riter

Creative Director: Joel Travis creativedirector@themusicinitiative.com Graphic Designer: Christina Corsino

Director of Media Content: Joe Davies video@themusicinitiative.com

a ry

- intern

Promotions Assistant/BalconyTV Host: Amanda Muirhead balconytv@themusicinitiative.com Business Development Consultant: Taylor Rains development@themusicinitiative.com Additional Staff: Carly Barnes, Thomas Champagne, Mary Link, Taylor Marchbanks, Kyle Thomas, Oliver Wentworth Office: 1504 Middle Street #D Sullivans Island, SC 29482

Joe

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843-819-7811 FOUND: Music Uncovered is a quarterly, online magazine produced Publisher: This Is Noteworthy {tin}

by a group of music enthusiasts yearning to broaden and expand each reader’s music experience. We believe in the power of music to change a mood and enhance a moment; as well as facilitate change and link

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the past with the present. This is our community—seeped in passion, creativity and cultural awareness.

Within the pages of each issue, we will bring you history, interviews,

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CD reviews, new music outlets around the nation, and so much more. Among other exciting music related features, FOUND: Music Uncovered features fans talking about music. We aim to uncover

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hidden gems found in up-and-coming bands, and also cover nationally recognized musicians and events.

b u siness

r-v

i d eo

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do (from our beloved staff) “Piss Up A Rope” - Ween

A manda

w riter ny R

“Cry Me A River” - Justin Timberlake

otio n

“Silver Spring” - Fleetwood Mac “Don’t You Forget About Me” - Simple Minds “You Don’t Love Me Anymore” - Weird Al “You’re Breaking My Heart” - Harry Nilsson “Say Something” - Great Big World “We Are Never Getting Back Together” - Taylor Swift “You Got Growin’ Up To Do” - Joshua Radin

“Where I Found You” - Future Islands

C arly - inte

“Missing You” - John Waite “Not In Love” - Natalia Kills ristin a - d e

id e

m as - aud i

gn ho

-v

Joe

Sadie - ed

letter from the editor LOVE, a topic that never goes out of style.

Becca Finley and her faithful companion, Monroe

"All you need is love." -The Beatles

LOVE transcends genres, people, and subject matter. "I see the other half of me when I look in your eyes." -Gift of Gab

LOVE, an experience all people can relate to in some form or fashion. "I never dreamed that I'd love somebody like you, and I never dreamed that I'd lose somebody like you."- Chris Isaak

LOVE makes us feel deeply. "I'm crazy for trying, and crazy for crying, and I'm crazy for loving you."-Patsy Cline

But most of all, LOVE elicits action.

This winter we want everyone to bundle up, get warm and follow the lead of our cover band, The Mowgli's. SAY IT, JUST SAY IT! Go to the fb or twitter page of your favorite musician, stand out on a limb and tell them why you love them.

Share the LOVE. Show the LOVE. Be the LOVE.

-B

Beach Flow Yoga Birthday & Bachelorette Yoga Wedding Yoga

www.sealevelyoga.com

www.stonesthrow.com

www.subpop.com

www.easystar.com

www.partisanrecords.com

vinyl roots

Musical Emotion

At my family gatherings there is always music

the release of some cerebral feel-good juice and the

playing. It starts as simple background noise while

result is the perfect mood for whatever it is that you

grandma rules over her kitchen with an oven

are doing down in that basement. While this

mitt-clad fist. Soon, after the wine has been flowing

demonstrates how music affects mood, it still does

and the scrumptious food consumed, the volume

not necessarily explain what gets grandma up and

level of the music always seems to creep up. And

moving. After all, it’s not your collection of Weird Al

before we know it, we have a full-on dance party

Yankovic cassettes that gets granny’s rump shaking.

breaking out. Grandma has abandoned the apron

Maybe, it’s something from her past... her memory.

and is working the center of the dance circle like a tweaked out NYC street performer. I won’t swear by

While science has determined that mood is certainly

it, but I am pretty sure I saw her twerking this

affected by music, the jury is still out on the effects of

Christmas! So, what is it exactly that gets even

music on our memories.

grandma up and out of her seat strutting around the

figured out just yet, music can and does evoke

living room? Is the music causing the release of

detailed memories. Whether it’s a song, artist, or

chemicals in her brain that give her the impulse to

even an entire genre, we have all experienced specific

dance? Could the music be bringing back special

nostalgia upon hearing music. Think of it in the same

memories of granny’s dance parties past? Or could

way certain scents might harken memories upon

the music simply be invoking happy emotions in

smelling them. This area of the science is highly

granny that make her put a groove on? Perhaps it’s

debated, as some would argue that the nostalgic

a bit of each of these things.

feeling is really a mood-based reaction to the music,

While not scientifically

rather than an actual memory being recalled. Science For decades, scientists have studied the effects of music on our memory and mood. There have been numerous studies that demonstrate how a piece of music can directly stimulate the brain, thus causing the release of certain chemicals that are responsible for pleasure. It makes sense. Think of the countless occasions where you play music to set a certain mood. Whether you are pumping yourself up for that all-important Ultimate Frisbee game, or perhaps you are getting ready for that Dungeons and Dragons tourney with your fellow basement dwellers, you play a certain type of music to set a desired mood. What you are really doing is enlisting music to activate that pleasure center in your bong water-soaked brain. And when you do this it causes

Think of the countless occasions where you play music to set a certain mood. Whether you are pumping yourself up for that all-important Ultimate Frisbee game, or perhaps you are getting ready for that Dungeons and Dragons tourney with your fellow basement dwellers...

aside, most of us can recall a time that we have

So, with Valentine’s Day fast approaching, I challenge

heard a song from our past where, upon hearing it,

you to perform your own little experiment. Light

we find ourselves instantly transported back in

those candles, spread the rose petals around, and just

time. For me, it’s Nirvana. Whenever I hear it, I

as you select that perfect piece of music to set the

am taken straight to the backseat of my very first

mood, STOP. Pause for a moment and take note of

car. Ahh… I can almost smell the Teen Spirit now.

why you are choosing that particular piece. Is it because it makes you feel good, or because it brings

Perhaps one of the most powerful things music can

back fond memories, or maybe it just plain puts you in

do is to evoke our feelings and emotions. The

the mood? I know I’m gonna be rocking some John

perfect example of this would be the score to a

Prine for all of those reasons!

movie. Just imagine what movies might be like

without music to steer them along. Love scenes would be boring and emotionless without that ‘70s funk beat. Horror movies wouldn’t pack near the punch without that creepy violin screech that is perfectly timed to when the killer jumps out. In

#teenspirit

e ytw

#mi

fact, my little sister and I used to turn the sound off on scary movies just so we could get through them!

This being said, music doesn’t just

invoke our emotions at the IMAX.

o x o

What

about all of those songs on the radio? Dance songs, love songs, rage songs, and yes, even Miley Cyrus songs are all capable of producing some kind of emotional reaction from listeners. Regardless of whether music releases brainy chemicals, exhumes old memories, or surfaces emotion, we can all agree that it definitely has a major impact on almost all of our lives each and every day.

x #

NEW ORLEANS BIRMINGHAMLOS MIAMI PO ATLANTA D ATHENS f e a t u r e d: CHARLESTON O /DURHAM/CHAP T ASHEVILLE NASHVILLE DENTON ASHINGTON, D.C.

ARLESTON

APEL HILL

ASHEVILLE

ASHVILLE

GTON, D.C.

YORK CITY

BOSTON

SEATTLE

NEW ORLEANS

SAN FRANCISCO

BIRMINGHAM

LOS ANGELES

MIAMI

PORTLAND

ATLANTA

DENVER

ATHENS

OMAHA

CHARLESTON

TULSA

RALEIGH/DURHAM/CHAPEL HILL

DALLAS/DENTON/FT. WORTH

ASHEVILLE

AUSTIN

NASHVILLE

MINNEAPOLIS

WASHINGTON, D.C.

MADISON

NEW YORK CITY

CHICAGO

BOSTON

D E A F P O E TS G a ra g e Ro c k

TMI HOT PICKS

Whorish Boorish (Dirty Homepop) Churchill's Pub Sat, Jan 25 9pm $7 Star Slinger (House) Bardot Sat, Feb 15 9pm $12 Moses Sumney (Soul) Revolution Live Mon, Apr 14 7pm $23

Sean Wouters, Nicolas Espinoza Photo Credit: Deaf Poets (via Facebook)

Miami is a city not usually known for its rock n’

Their new releases, as well as a back catalogue of

roll scene. People venture to the strange terrain

older songs, can be found on Soundcloud; they

that is southern Florida for a wide variety of

give the listener a good feel for their fast-paced

reasons, including but not limited to spring break,

indie-punk style. Espinoza is a virtuoso, sounding

all-night club scenes, sun drenched beaches and

like two drummers at once and complimenting

the like. But to find a garage punk duo playing

Wouter’s guitar and raspy voice so well that it

songs that would fit better against the backdrop of

sounds like the band is bigger than it actually is. In

a city like Detroit or Baltimore? Not likely, unless

the studio, songs such as “When I Was a Boy” find

you happen to run into the Deaf Poets.

the band at a more subdued pace, with complex

A two-piece band formed in 2009 by singer/

track layering and acoustic guitars. These types

guitarist Sean Wouters and drummer Nicolas

of songs stand up as well as their more aggressive

Espinoza, Deaf Poets is a modern anachronism in

numbers and show the band’s versatility. Expect

the best of ways. They’ve steadily gained momentum

to hear much more from the Deaf Poets—Miami

over the past few years, making a splash in Miami

can’t hold them forever.

and moving into the national tour circuit. With a sound that is as aurally captivating as it is unique, they’re quickly becoming recognized as one of the most progressive bands in the Southeast.

MIAMI

RAY WYLIE HUBBARD

Countr y

As Burroughs wrote, “America is not a young land:

rock favorites, such as Small Faces and Buffalo

it is old and dirty and evil before the settlers, before

Springfield, and even includes a special guest

the Indians. The evil is there waiting.” That is what

appearance from Ringo Starr. “The album really

I think American country music should be—old,

does have a lot of attitude,” Hubbard says. “We

dirty, and if not evil, then dark. I love imagining

made it to play loud, and I think the sonic quality of

the darkness of the American country, the isolation

it is just beautiful. Even if you don’t like the singer

and the howling of the empty wind. And that is why

or the songs, you’ll like the way it sounds.” It’s a

I love Ray Wylie Hubbard’s music. A country artist

dark and dirty album, and so full of life that you

based out of Austin, Texas, Hubbard is a seasoned

couldn’t stop listening to it if you wanted to. And

veteran of the music scene. At 67 years old, he’s

as you go back farther into Hubbard’s discography,

been in the business since the mid-seventies with

you’ll discover that every single album is that good.

his first album, Ray Wylie Hubbard and the Cowboy

Ray Wylie Hubbard is what good country music

Twinkies , and seeing as how his most recent album,

wishes it could be.

The Grifter’s Hymna l, was just released in 2012, Hubbard shows no sign of quitting or even slowing down. Just the opposite. The Grifter’s Hymnal is a country masterpiece, a unique and individual work of art that takes inspiration from Hubbard’s classic

AUSTIN TMI HOT PICKS

The Sword (Heavy Rock) Mohawk Thurs, Feb 13 6:30pm $20 The Glitch Mob (Industrial) Emo’s Tues, Mar 25 10pm $22

Ray Wylie Hubbard Photo Credit: Todd Wolfson

Turnpike Troubadours (Roots) Fri, Apr 4 7pm $18

DEM ATLAS Alternative

TMI HOT PICKS

The Federales (Alt Country) 7th street entry Thurs, Jan 30 8pm $5 Real Estate (Indie Rock) Fine Line Music Cafe Wed, March 26 7:30pm $15 Tinariwen (Desert Blues) the cedar Sun, Apr 6 7:30pm $35

Joshua Evans

Hailing from the Twin Cities, Dem Atlas, moniker

fails time and time again, but continues to try

of Joshua Evans,

was frontman for a band in

and try again.” It heavily features samples from

high school prior to going solo and releasing his

Charlie Brown TV episodes which complement

EP Charle Brwn in February of 2013 according

the simple beats nicely. Song titles are named

to his Bandcamp. Inspired by Charlie Brown and

after character. Clocking in at about twenty

the Peanuts gang, Dem Atlas works with themes

minutes and featuring tight, lyrically complex

of “the duality between God and Man, ignorance

songs like “Charlie Brown” and “F=ranklin”,

and brilliance, enlightenment and obscurity.”

it’s a hard-hitting debut EP without a bad

His beats are simple jazz riffs mostly comprised

track. Search for Dem Atlas on Bandcamp and

of piano licks and smooth drum beats, creating

Facebook, and expect to hear much more from

a nice contrast with his fast paced, clear

this up and comer in the coming months.

accented flow. He’s been featured on tracks with fellow underground rappers Irenius and Strictly Hammers, and is quickly gaining a local following in Minneapolis and beyond. If it isn’t obvious from the title, Charle Brwn deals thematically with Charlie Brown, whom Evans looks to for inspiration because of “the way his

MINNEAPOLIS

THE GETAWAY DRIVERS Po p/ Ro c k / Fo l k he Madison-based group The Getaway Drivers

from Wisconsin). With their power folk edge,

is recording a new album, and you should be

they sound almost like Steve Earle meets The

as excited as I am. Formed in 2006, this septet

Decemberists. My favorite thing about local

has only released one full-length album (though

bands is their fervent followers—if you visit

they’ve also recorded two EPs), but after a

any of the Getaway Drivers’ social media pages,

successful Kickstarter campaign, Wooden Box

you’ll see dozens of Madison locals telling the

Heart should be available by June of 2014. Led

group how great they are, how much they love

the

them and how they have every single album each

group melts creamy pop/rock in with smooth

individual member has been on! When you have

country power folk, all for one deliciously

a whole city behind you, what can stop you?

roots-inspired sound. The Getaway Drivers’

That local excitement sometimes turns into a

music features Manor and Sheila Shigley on

national, and even international feeling, and

lead vocals, with harmonies that could make a

I wouldn’t be surprised if the Getaway Drivers

barbershop quartet cry, all alongside acoustic

were catapulted into the spotlight after Wooden

and electric guitars, cello, violin, bass and

Box Heart drops, with the whole of Madison

drums. The band is one of Madison’s most

right behind them.

singer/guitarist/pianist

Bob

Manor,

consistently quality acts, constantly providing good alternative country songs whenever they’re needed most. Their most recent EP, Black Dog Days, is a fantastic presentation of contemporary southern rock (never mind the fact that they’re

MADISON

Dan Butson, Barbara, Brad Graham, Ken Keeley Bob Manor, Sheila Shigley, Greg Thornburg Photo Credit: via Facebook

Leeding Zeroes (Indie rock) Fri, Jan 31 5:30pm $5

The Naked (Alt) The Majestic Tues, Mar 11 7:30pm $25

Wakey! Wakey! (Alt Rock) the frequency Wed, Apr 2 8pm $15

TMI HOT PICKS

PINN PANELLE Ro c k t r o n i c a

Derek Song, Justin Conway

Paper Arrows (Indie Rock) schubas Sun, Jan 26 7pm $10

Dinner And A Suit (Pop) The Abbey Tues, March 4 8pm $8

London Grammar (Indie) metro Fri, Apr 4 6:30pm $20

TMI HOT PICKS

Chicago has always been a pretty rocking city—if

viral, racking up over a million views in just two

your city had as much snow and cold weather as

weeks. As of 2013, Pinn Panelle has just released

they do, you’d probably spend most of your time

their second album, Ghosts and Liars . A fantastic

inside listening to music, too! It’s a small wonder

and rocking album, it seamlessly melds hard

that a band like Pinn Panelle can thrive there.

rock with electronica. Every song on the album

In 2007, singer-composer Derek Song moved

makes me think of the story behind the band’s

from Chicago to Boston where he met his current

name: “Pinn Panelle comes from the words ‘Pin

collaborator, beat-maker and drummer, Justin

Panel’ being made to sound like a human name.

Conway. After a few years gaining buzz around

‘Pin Panel’ refers to the face of a Pachinko game

Boston, the group moved back to Chicago about

machine, and, to us, the act of turning those

the same time new developments in the world

words into a human name relates to how people

of electronic music were exploding. Subgenres

turn to technology and other artificial things for

like IDM and grime were becoming popular, as

comfort or love.” Like the name’s origin, Pinn

well as artists like Skrillex, Nero, and Rusko. In

Panelle’s music is dark, a little sad, and has

the spirit of all this electronic innovation, Derek

the relentless drive of technology, or someone

began to build his own custom music controllers

endlessly searching for love.

and experimenting with new live performance interfaces. Then in 2012, the band uploaded a video of them covering Skrillex’s “Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites” to YouTube, where it went

CHICAGO

TANK & THE BANGAS R&B

Deep in the Southern United States, New Orleans

joined forces to create one all-star group. The

is a city like none other. Filled with magic, music

artistry, energy, humor and love that Tank and

and a rhythm all their own, it gave birth to

her bandmates put into their music is nothing

jazz and continues to cultivate musical growth.

short of extraordinary. Their newest album

EnterTank and the Bangas, an R&B outfit that

Think Tank, just released this past December,

embodies all the bold and enduring creativity

is an exciting and soulful journey through love

that has placed NOLA on the American arts map

and life and everything in between. Through the

for decades. Fronted by larger-than-life Tarriona

past two years, Tank and the Bangas have taken

“Tank” Ball, the group is an eclectic mixture

their explosive live shows to events such as the

of R&B, soul and spoken word. Back in 2010,

Jazz and Heritage Festival, Write NOLA Festival,

Tank released her first solo album, RandoMe,

League of Black Women Conference, and many

a compilation of singing, scatting, rapping and

others, including two appearances on BalconyTV

reciting poetry over soul, jazz and rock tunes.

New Orleans. Regardless of whether or not the

For instance, take the song “Random Love,” in

Bangas go down in the annals of history, Ms.

which Tank covers Norah Jones’ “Don’t Know

Tarriona Ball certainly will!

Why” with a poem spoken in between the second and third verse, and Tank completely owns it. With her inimitable style and intoxicating voice, it’s no wonder that she and the BlackStar Bangas

NEW ORLEANS

Tarriona Ball, Norman Spence, Joshua Johnson Merell Burkett, Nita Bailey Photo Credit: via Facebook

TMI HOT PICKS

Glen David Andrews (Funk) d.b.a. Mon, Jan 27 10pm $5

The Soul Rebels (Jazz) Tipitina’s Fri, Feb 7 9pm $15

The Orwells (Flower Punk) One Eyed Jacks Tues, March 11 9pm $10

//GT\\

Psyc h e d e l i c Ro c k

Psychedelic rock trio Scotty Lee (guitar, vocals),

and gives the boys a chance to show off their

Byron Sonnier (bass, vocals), and Mark Beasley

instrumental chops. Gruff vocals and resonating

(drums) craft pure psychedelic rock ’n’ roll for a

guitar riffs buoy “To the Sea” to a dreamily classic

new generation. //GT\\, which stands for “get

rock ’n’ roll heaven. The accompanying music video

tryin’” bridges the gap between Southern rock,

offers a sleek, stylish view of the boys on bicycles,

grunge, and psychedelia with ease.

set against the city’s concrete jungle at nighttime.

The

three

come

from

variety

artistic

Interspersed are shots of band members doing

backgrounds: Sonnier is a photographer and

what they do best: making really great jams.

sculptor (among other things), while Beasley and

Last September, amidst a whirlwind tour of the East

Lee both played in multiple bands. They all came

Coast and Midwest, they released their self-titled

together in 2011 and created the “Southern grunge”

EP, a stylish follow-up to their debut EP Heavy

and “heavy psychedelic post-punk rock” sound that

Dreams , released last February on Bandcamp. With

now earns them a steady stream of gigs at classic

any luck, another tour will be on the books, and I

Birmingham venues like Bottletree and The Nick.

am all too certain that 2014 will bring only good

“Open Up” showcases the band’s ability to blend

things to these Birmingham boys.

heavy and light rock ’n’ roll in an effortless and natural way. Clocking in at just over nine minutes, “Hortal” pays homage to classic guitar solos,

BIRMINGHAM TMI HOT PICKS

Caleb Caudle (Americana) The Nick Fri, Jan 24 9pm $6 Train Company (Blues) The Bottletree Cafe Tues, March 25 9pm $8

Scotty Lee, Mark Beasley, Byron Sonnier Photo Credit: Jolie Bell (via Facebook)

The Milk Carton Kids (Folk) WorkPlay Thurs, Apr 17 8pm $16

NO CROWN Ro c k

TMI HOT PICKS

JD Hobson Band (Blues) Nectar Wed, Feb 5 8pm $8 James Vincent McMorrow (Folk) The Crocodile Thurs, Mar 20 8pm $20 Caravan Palace (Electro Swing) Neumos Tues, Apr 15 8pm $17

Jon Warner, Matthew Litz, Brian Rowe Photo Credit:(via Facebook)

They always say that happiness comes from

fill each of our days. “Standing on the edge of the

enjoying the little things. It’s the little things

world, looking in on something obscene, sharing

that build up our days, and rock band No Crown

smiles,” they sing in “History Repeats,” a perfect

uses seemingly ordinary events and emotions to

example of their poignant and bittersweet style.

make the most accessible and relatable rock’n’roll

“Deep Ocean Blues” embraces old classic rock

around. Formerly known as Bent, Matthew Litz

archetypes with extended solos in the middle,

(guitar, vocals), Brian Rowe (bass), and Jon Warner

showcasing the trio’s

(drums) felt that a shift in their music warranted a

No Crown played at Seattle’s Earfest last year

name change, hence No Crown. Pledging allegiance

and welcomed in the new year playing at Seattle

to no one and nothing save “melodic, honest rock,”

hotspots, including Waid’s and Blue Moon Tavern.

the boys of No Crown cite Neil Young and Built to

No Crown crafts rock music for the everyman

Spill as their role models. The trio released their

without ever becoming ordinary or monotonous.

first full-length album titled Luxuries in July 2013.

True blue rock’n’roll through and through, their

Title track “Luxuries” embodies classic guitar riffs

anthems stand strongly among the muck and the

that harken back to instrumentally smart rock of

grime that inevitably seeps into day to day life. They

older days, full of heartfelt choruses and well-

may not yet be legends, but music that touches on

crafted melodies.

such classically universal themes is bound to stand

From careening, light numbers like “Says the Fool”

on its own in times to come.

to meditative tracks like “Shelf Life,” Luxuries is

SEATTLE

filled with deeply thoughtful lyrics pondering the big questions and celebrating the little things that

www.fillmoremb.com

www.bardotmiami.com

www.mohawkaustin.com

www.stubbsaustin.com

www.finelinemusic.com

www.thecedar.org

www.majesticmadison.com

www.high-noon.com

www.abbeypub.com

www.citywinery.com/chicago

www.oneeyedjacks.net

www.spottedcatmusicclub.com

www.workplay.com

www.thebottletree.com

www.thecrocodile.com

www.nectarlounge.com

YO MAMA AS S MAM

B IG FAT BO OT Y

BA AN ND D B Serving up a fusion of funk, rock, rap and soul, Asheville based five piece funk group Yo Mam a’s Big Fat Booty Band has a knack for the outrageous that has endeared them to fans in the Southeast and across the nation. Leading up a legion of fans equally as energetic and riotous as themselves, Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band has t aken iconic venues like The Georgia Theater and Clermont Lounge by unapologetic, booty bouncing storm. Last fall saw the group release their fifth studio album Onward! and follow up with a hip swaying, mind bending tour of the USA. Mar y “Mama Funk” Frances, Derrick Johnson, Lee Allen, JP Miller, and Al Al Ingram t ake “work hard, play hard” to a booty busting level with their legendar y live shows, whirlwind tours and dance inducing albums.

Al Al Ingram, Mary Frances, John Paul Miller Derrick Johnson, Lee Allen Photo courtesy of Yo Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Fat Booty Band

Let's talk about the band's inception… How did you all manage to ﬁnd one another? Do you believe in fate or destiny? JP: I met Al Al because he was leaving his job and I was taking the position. Derrick met some members of the band at a bar and was asked to come sit in. Lee and Mary became a couple while at Appalachian State and formed a duo called Eymarel. We met Lee and Mary from doing shows together. Al Al and Lee went to high school together. We all lived in Boone, NC at one point (besides Derrick). So, no…..not much fate involved there...haha!

How to you ﬁnd the balance between party and work? Al Al: You make them one...

Lee: Al Al and I actually went to high school together at Scotland High School in Laurinburg, NC and were in the marching band together. Then we all ended up in Boone, NC for a bit, but reconnected musically here in Asheville, NC. I think we’re all here because we’ve followed our love and desire to create and share music for a living.

JP: We take our sound very seriously. We also take our partying very seriously. Even though we drive long distances after sleeping for a only few hours and carry a bunch of gear in and out of the club, we still get up and play a show as if we had the easiest day of our lives. Then after the show, we feel like we need to connect with our fans on a personal level. We don’t want them to feel separate from us in any way. We are one big family and we only get to see some of these people every 3-6 months. We go and hang out, get into some late night jams, have fun and then do it all over again the next day. I ﬁnd that most of us sleep whenever we get a chance to grab a few z’s and try to eat as healthy as possible while on the road. We drink lots of water….and coffee. That’s our balance.

What comes ﬁrst - music or lyrics? Do you ever start out with an idea of what you want the song to be, or do you just go with the funky ﬂow?

You took 5 years off in between your debut and sophomore albums - what happened during that time? How have you changed your process since the band's inception?

Mary: I tend to write the music ﬁrst and then the lyrics come later. I believe the key to writing music is to allow the space and time for the music to come to you while always playing and exploring on your instrument. Lately I’ve been having dreams where I wake up and the whole song is written. I will jump out of bed and grab my phone so I can record all of the parts before I forget them. Then I take those ideas to the band and we work out the ﬁne details of the song. Now we have two new songs for our next album that were channeled from dream world!

JP: We recorded our first album Now You Know (2005) at Echo Mountain Studios in Asheville, NC. We learned a lot from that session. Right after we dropped that album, we started touring really hard. It took us a minute to find a good balance between touring, writing and recording. We went through about a dozen drummers after Now You Know. We released Greatest Hips Vol 2 (2009) as a collection of live tracks from shows up and down the East Coast. Lee Allen (drums) and Mary Newcomb (Vocals/Keys) joined the band in 2009 and we started to formulate our new and most current sound. We release Doin it Hard in 2012. It was recorded in Miami with DJ LeSpam at City of Progress Studio. Since there had been a lull in new albums, we decided to never let that happen again. We quickly released an album 6 months later called Re-Doin it Hard, which containes remixes of songs off ReDoin it Hard. In 2013 we just dropped our latest release ONWARD! We have already set aside time to record the next album and have most of the material already written. Booty Band is on fire!

Lee: I always hear a groove ﬁrst and lyrics come later

Favorite Asheville venue? Al Al: All of Asheville is a venue! Lee: I don’t think there can be just one favorite venue for us in Asheville. Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band has played a lot of the venues here, and they all have unique things about them that make them special. We’ll be at The Orange Peel on April 19th.

after the the show, show, we we feel feel like like we we need need to to connect connect with with "" after our fans fans on on aa personal personal level. level. We We don't don't want want them them to to feel feel our separate from from us us in in any any way. way. We We are are one one big big family..." family..." separate

- JP

Didn't you recently make a video with Second Story Garage? Who have been your favorite collaborations to date?

by this Wednesday.” Derrick piped up “oh wait,....Mike Dillon and band are staying at my house Wed night. They are playing in town.” Done!

Lee: It’s been awesome collaborating with Kid Hop artist Secret Agent 23. Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band has been involved in almost all of his albums and its been great writing and recording with that project. We’ve been working a lot lately with video performances with great companies across the country. We’ve recently done a Jambase live video performance, Second Story Garage sessions, Gondola Sessions, we’ve been working locally with IamAvl.com to record and release live footage from some shows in Asheville and some intimate recording sessions at Echo Mountain Studios. Also, we’ve released two music videos filmed by Daniel Judson at Digital Media Foundry.

Lee: I’d love to have Andre 3000 and Big Boi from Outkast on an album. I also, think it’d be cool to collab with Bonobo and Quantic for an album!

What made you decide to have Mike Dillon as a guest percussionist? Any dream guest instrumentalists on your list? JP: I have loved Mike Dillon’s playing since the first time I saw him with Hairy Apes BMX, opening for Critter’s Buggin. He had a helmet on and attacked his vibes like a lion jumping on his prey! We were nearing the end of the recording process for ONWARD! and I said that I really wished that we could get Mike Dillon on the album. Lee said, “bro, the only way we could fit Mike on the album is if he can lay the tracks down

Derrick: I’d like to have Kendrick Lamar and Tom Morrello on our album

I hear you all, on occasion, play naked? Al Al: You heard wrong...tired of being blamed for other people getting naked! We don’t have mind control over people...we just make them feel really comfortable. Sometimes too comfortable. JP: I wrote a song called “Sitting Naked on the Beach” while sitting on a nude beach in Hawaii, strumming a little backpacker acoustic guitar. I had no idea that it would turn into a high energy Funk song that inspired people to take off their clothes at our shows and bare all.

What’s been your craziest show to date? Lee: All I can say is MOMS Ball in Nola!!!! No words can describe that event

Al Al Ingram, Mary Frances, John Paul Miller Derrick Johnson, Lee Allen Photo courtesy of Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band

Best feeling in the world is....? JP: Seeing fans get completely lost in your music. The fact that we can create something that moves people in that way is very special.

What’s on your “essential” packing list for going on tour? Al Al: My knifes and my utility belt. Mary: Head lamp

What’s been your largest obstacle to overcome as a band? How did you all move past it? Lee: I think we always striving to get to the next level and that quest never ends. For example, when you ﬁrst start up as a band, you want to write enough songs to perform a show. When you write enough songs, then you have to book a show. Once you start playing shows, you want to get a booking agent to start touring. Etc, etc… Right now I think we trying to ﬁgure out how to tour successfully overseas...

Best part about touring? What do you all have planned next? Mary: Traveling to new places. We have been to 49 states and only have Hawaii and the rest of the world left, so that is what we plan to do next! Lee: The best part of touring for me is seeing all the amazing places in the country and meeting all the wonderful people that love and support us and live music. It really is a small world and most people, especially in the music industry, are 1 degree of separation from you or your circle of friends.

Lee: toothbrush, coffee, phone charger, extra t shirts for hot weather and I always have a warm jacket in the trailer, cause you never know when you’ll need it.

If your younger self saw you now, would they be surprised or impressed? Both? JP: Well, I thought I’d have made a lot more money by now...haha! I did think that my high school rock band was gonna be real big. I never really felt that way about any other band I was in until Booty Band came along. I have a good feeling about this one. My younger self would be impressed and surprised. Mary: Oh my younger self would be super impressed! I put on so many shows by myself on my trampoline when I was a kid. I had huge imaginary audiences in my front yard back then that have come to life these days!! A couple years ago, I found cassette tapes from my childhood where I was recording shows by myself. I was around the age of 5 and I would talk to the crowd and then play piano and sing my heart out. I know that my younger self has grown up to be exactly what she always dreamed of being!

What is your favorite part of your job? Favorite travel destination?

JP: Carrying heavy gear up ﬂights of stairs.

Al Al: Alaska...I Loved it up there! Sun going down at 11pm and coming up at 4am, the wildlife, very nice people...just don’t ring the bell in the bars unless you’ve got a lot of cash...

Mary: Writing new music and recording albums!

JP: New Orleans is my favorite. I think several other band members would agree. There is a lot of great culture down there. We always dig the amazing music, food and fun night life. The desert is always an interesting place. We like to go hiking around the canyons of the midwest. California has also been really good to us. Lee: New Orleans, NYC, and Alaska

Lee: Doing what I love doing for a career. Its fun at the end of the day knowing we get to make music for a living.

Guilty pleasure? Lee: Craigslist Mary: Watching chick ﬂicks Al Al: Comic books and video games

Al Al Ingram, Mary Frances, John Paul Miller Derrick Johnson, Lee Allen Photos courtesy of Yo Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Fat Booty Band

Where do you find inspiration? Mary: I find my inspiration sitting by the water. I lived at the beach for years and wrote albums worth of music being by the ocean and feeling the ebb and flow of the waves and how that relates to life. Since I’ve moved to the mountains, I now go sit by the river to write, read and center myself. Lee: I think what we create is a product of our life experiences. The more you see, do, hear, and experience, the more those experiences shape what you create. I find inspiration in a great tune, or an awesome book, or from experiencing different cultures lifestyles. Al Al: I Look in the mirror...

What do you want to learn in 2014? Al Al: All the secrets of the universe... JP: I have been playing guitar by ear for 24 years with only a handful of lessons. I wouldn’t mind learning some music theory this year. Every year I take on a new challenge in the kitchen. Two years ago, I grew, dried and prepared all my own seasonings. Last year I messed with jellies/jams from blueberries that I grew at my house. This year I think I’m going to take up making pastries.

How do you see yourselves in ﬁve years? Al Al: 5 years older and, I hope, smarter… Mary: In ﬁve years I want to be rocking thousands of people at a time all over this world while touring exotic places that I’ve always dreamed of seeing.

What’s your game plan for a zombie apocalypse? Lee: I think I would commandeer a boat and sail somewhere tropical Mary: I don’t have one but I bet Al Al, does so I would probably find him and go with his plan... unless… Al Al: Funny that you ask...I’ve had a cool dream about this! We was doing a west coast tour and was in California when the Zombie Apocalypse went down. The whole story was us first trying to get back home to NC to our love ones, seeing the horrific aftermath of our devastated home...then trying to survive...which I would round up about 2000 of some friends, hijack a Carnival Cruise Ship, outfit it with cannons, machine guns, and thangs...then try to find an island for a base...then save the world...

think what

we create is a product of our life experiences. The more you see, do, hear and experience, the

What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

more those

Mary: I want show the next generation that passion, practice and dedication is the recipe for success. If you are true to yourself and everyone around you then nothing can stop you from living your dreams!

experiences

Current obsessions? Mary: Cats Al Al: Cats Lee: Collecting gear and vinyl

shape what you create." - Lee

Yo Mamas Big Fat Booty Band show schedule + Check out

keep an eye out for

new releases in the upcoming year!

Al Al Ingram Photo courtesy of Yo Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Big Fat Booty Band

Superbly located less than 4 miles from major local music venues, such as the Music Farm, the Charleston Pour House, and the Tin Roof.

Features:

Newly Renovated in 2011 Complimentary On-Site Parking Complimentary Shuttle Service to/from Historic Downtown Complimentary High Speed Wi-Fi Full-Service Harborview Restaurant & Lounge with Panoramic Views

Facilities:

Seasonal Outdoor Pool Overlooking the City Marina State-of-the-Art Fitness Center Business Center Meeting Space/Hospitality Room

Charleston Riverview 843.556.7100 301 Savannah Hwy. Charleston, SC 29407 www.HiRiverview.com

3 Day Pass All photos courtesy of Savannah Stopover’s Facebook page

WHO WHO:

march 6-8, 2014

WHen: WHen

WHAT: WHAT:

It just makes sense to bring a music festival to a city rich in history and overflowing in art at a price unrivaled by any other. Also because it was a great success the last two years, so why stop now?

WHY: WHY

Think SXSW’s baby sister. Savannah Stopover combines the quaint city of Savannah, bursting with hospitality and charm with the excitement of a festival filled with music and media, to create a fun-filled 3 days where traveling artists new to the scene can share their music up close and personal with music-lovers from all over the South.

Savannah, GA

WHERE:

If you’re looking for mainstream music, then this Stopover is not for you. Check out the latest in shoegaze, synth-pop, ethno-funk and tons more of the sound of the underground. We’re not saying that those who attend will be classified as totally hipster, but if the shoe fits…

WHERE

savannah stopover festival

Georgia’s Hostess City...

All photos courtesy of Beale Street’s Facebook page

WHERE

WHO WHO: WHen: WHen

This May will mark the festival’s 38th year anniversary. If almost half a century of incredible music with over a million people in attendance throughout its history doesn’t give you an idea of how awesome this festival is, then think again! Top artists from all over the country combined with fans from all over the world in a city famed for its love of music makes for the perfect festival.

WHAT: WHAT:

may 2-4, 2014

Beale Street Music Festival celebrates all things music; plus, it’s been around for 37 years already—why stop the party now?

WHY: WHY

Some rock’n’roll aficionados, a few thousand Elvis fans, and anyone who is inspired by the blues, soul, and rock’n’roll to be found in the city known for its rich history in music. Be on the lookout for artists from all over the music spectrum-The Black Keys, Alice in Chains, and Bassnectar are just three of the numerous artists stacking this year’s lineup.

Memphis, TN

WHERE:

beale street music festival

The home of Elvis...

A diverse range of musicians, artists, volunteers, yoga instructors, dancers, and festival-goers all dedicated to creating an unforgettable weekend of euphoria and fun.

Euphoria Fest is back for another year of incredible music, jaw-dropping art installations, soothing yoga sessions, and dance parties to rival the rest. For those who have attended in previous years, get ready for all of your favorite aspects of the festival, except this time they’re going to be even better--better dance tents, more interactive art installations, and even some workshops so you can sharpen your own skills. This year, the festival creators really want you to get the full euphoric experience that festivals are known for so camping options are available too!

This festival, by name, captures the entire feel of the festival culture: euphoria. People all over the country drive hundreds of miles to leave their normal lives behind for a weekend in order to throw themselves into a whirlwind of music, dancing, and incredible vibes that festivals are known for.

April 25-26, 2014

WHen: WHen

WHAT: WHAT:

Carson Creek Ranch-Austin, TX

WHY: WHY

euphoria fest

One of the oldest existing ranches in Texas...

WHERE:

WHO :

All photos courtesy of Euphoria’s Facebook page

All photos courtesy of Carolina Rebellion’s Facebook page

Because we all need a little head-banging, tongue-out Kiss style, rockin' good weekend once in a while, and who better to get rowdy with than some of the greatest musicians of the decade…and it’s the perfect reason to don those vintage rock t-shirts and leather pants.

may 3-4, 2014

This is a music festival to bring together artists and fans from the genres you don’t often see at mainstream music festivals such as rock, hard rock, and... even harder rock.

WHAT: WHAT:

WHO WHO:

The hard-rockers, head-bangers, and a few metal heads. This is not your grandma’s music festival; that is, unless she happens to be an Alice in Chains, Limp Bizkit, or Deftones fan—three of 2013’s headliners. Be on the lookout for this year’s lineup soon!

WHY: WHY

WHen: WHen

Charlotte, NC Motor Speedway

WHERE:

carolina rebellion

Rock City Campgrounds at...

970 Morrison Drive Charleston, SC 29403

LINEUP january / february / march

Born out of Los Angeles, and seemingly another time all together, The Mowgli’s brings an often forgotten message to the airwaves: love. Forget preaching and romances with strings attached, The Mowgli’s represent love in its most simple and beautiful forms with a bold warmth that could only come from California and lifelong friendships. Channeling the 1970s with a surprising and poetic candor, The Mowgli’s are out to change the world and, in the past year alone, they have already stirred a hurricane of good vibes across the nation. All hail the return of peace and love—meet The Mowgli’s.

The Mowgli’s press photo

An eight-piece band sounds insanely fun and chaotic at the same time. How do you guys manage to stay stabilized and organized, or was that notion thrown out the window a while ago? Thrown out the window a long time ago.

Describe your songwriting process? Do you all have kind of a routine or does it change with each song? It changes with each song. Sometimes someone comes to the band with a completed song and everyone adds their touch, sometimes it’s a group process—two or three of us. I’m sure it will always be different as we move forward.

Michael Vincze of The Mowgli’s

We have always believed the

“true voice” of The Mowgli’s

is heard when everyone is singing. 44

Katie Jayne Earl of The Mowgli’s

After listening to Waiting for the Dawn, we get this overwhelming feeling for live raw energy. Is it safe to say a lot of your music is written FOR live performances?

What would your dream tour be like?

When we were in the studio there was a lot of talk and energy surrounding the question of live execution. A studio offers a musician so many options for sounds and stuff, we didn’t wanna make a record we couldn’t execute live. I think a lot of bands make a record that can’t be reproduced with four guys, and that can put you in a corner. We made our songs sound as big as we could and try to re-create that every night with eight people. We have been playing since before the record, and playing shows is what we do, so in a lot of ways, yes, our record was made to be played live. As a touring band, what else can you do?

Most meaningful experiences on a recent tour was singing with the kids of PS22 in Staten Island, yes?

A lot of you guys play the same instruments. Do you have it all mapped out for every song or do you ever switch instruments completely during performances? We’ve got drummers, guitar players, pianists, singers, and we just play the songs. We usually play our parts that we played on the record, but if someone’s instrument is out of commission, or someone is sick, or there are sound issues during a live scenario, we pick up what we can and get involved in playing the music for the people.

And you ALL are on vocals correct? Was there ever any issue with sanctioning a lead singer or have you guys always wanted a lot of voices harmonizing and singing in unison? We have always believed the “true voice”of The Mowgli’s is heard when everyone around is singing, and we all sing in order to encourage that.

What are your personal favorite songs from the album (and why)? Depends on who you ask. Each song is special to one or more of us for different reasons. ‘Love is Easy’ and ’Say It, Just Say It’ are newer to us, having been written and recorded JUST in time to make it on the record so I think right now they are up there in the list. ‘Time’ has really touching lyrics that I think resonate with all of us. ‘San Francisco’ has paved our way... they all mean a lot to all of us.

World tour with our favorite bands via teleportation. Also, space.

YES! Kids are amazing. Seeing and meeting a room full of really great, talented kids who could grow up to change the world gave us this overwhelming feeling of hope. Singing with them, hearing them sing our words, it was incredible.

Colin Louis Dieden of The Mowgli’s

Who are

your heroes? Andy: Duke Ellington Katie: Tina Fey and Malala Yousafzai Josh: George Harrison We each look up to a lot of different people as musicians and as inspiring humans.

what would you say is your genre of music?

We call it “love rock.” There are so many new, made up words for music genres now a days and we probably fall into a handful of them, but at the core, it’s rock ‘n’ roll however you slice it. So, The Mowgli's? You guys big fans of Jungle Book?

Sure, we like it. We were inspired by the young, wild and free vibe that Mowgli possesses. He’s untouched by society and in tune with nature. Also we named ourselves after this wolf dog we knew.

Katie Jayne Earl and Josh Hogan of The Mowgli’s

Michael Vincze of The Mowgliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Would you ever consider doing something like the Big Easy Express, where Mumford & Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Edward Sharpe toured together across the country (on historic trains) for a week? Of course. We used to talk about train tours before we even heard they were doing one! It’s an awesome idea! We daydream about all sorts of things like that. The goal is that one day we’ll have the means and time and fan base to do stuff like that. This year hasn’t left us much time to make stuff like that happen, but one day.

After spending so much time together, how do you keep everyone together? Meh, we fight and make up like siblings. Even when we don’t like each other, we love each other, and when you love each other, its easy to stay together. When you love each other, sticking around is easy, leaving is the hard part

Words of wisdom about friendship? Don’t sweat the small stuff.

I feel like you guys sort of came from humble beginnings, and are very much in the music business for music, not money. How different was the adjustment to signing to Photo Finish Records, an offshoot of the massive Def Jam records? We get to tour the country and there is a team helping us get our music out there. We have had more opportunities with a label, but I think we’d still be doing this with or without support. The biggest difference is that none of us have other jobs anymore. But we are a big band - getting us around is expensive, so all the money we make still goes into the band and getting the band to the next place. We are still putting everything into this project, but now we have a small team of people sweating with us.

We are big Sirius XM radio fans, especially for Alt Nation, so I heard “San Francisco” awhile ago and loved it. How did you guys feel finding out you’d hit number one on Alt 18 Countdown?

I mean, it felt great. I read that in 2010 you The Mowgli’s set-list from Portland, OR Every single milestone guys rented a house in is very rewarding and exciting. When we later Venice Beach and played hundreds of shows all went to #1 on the overall AltNation playlist, that over the area, sometimes even five shows in one was a huge validation of what we were doing. day. Was that a crazy experience for you guys? I guess it probably was but we all had jobs and hung out and played music; it was just what we did so we didn’t think much of it. In hindsight, it was us training for tour life, but we didn’t really get that at the time.

Every accomplishment is a reminder that the crazy lifestyle, long hours, sore bodies, tired brains—it’s paying off.

We loved the #sayitjustsayit social media campaign. What is your favorite way to interact with fans?

The best feeling in the world is......?

We like to meet them before and after shows. Twitter and Instagram are great ways to connect, too.

2014, more love?

Any personal mantras?

Come

on!

Don’t

you

know

us?

LOVE!!!

More shows, more stupid instagram videos, more music, more fun :)

”Just be who you want to be!”

What does “success” mean for you? Happiness

What’s on your wishlist for 2014? Happiness

The Mowglis are headed on the road! Catch them later this year at Firefly Music Festival and Wakarusa!

The Mowgliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s press photo

records www.alphapuprecords.com

Ghostly International Records www.ghostly.com

www.hopelessrecords.com

Vicious Recordings www.viciousrecordings.com

DARLING GUNSEL Electronica/Dance

Jezebel Gunsel, Ricky Terry, Dr. Scott Photo Cred: Via Facebook

TMI HOT PICKS

The Tender Few (Indie Rock) Bottom of the Hill Wed, Jan 29 9pm $10

Marissa Nadler (Dark Folk) The Chapel Wed, Feb 19 7pm $15

Castles In Spain (Rock) Brick and Mortar Fri, Apr 4 8pm $20

Doo doo, doo doo doo… The opening of Darling

tramp. Yeah, mad rad name. The group’s 2012

Gunsel’s hit single “Straight Girls” will easily

debut album, Unresolved Heart, is a dance-

slip into your head and dance around in there,

fest through nightclubs and the backseats of

and the equally addictive music video will

cars.

not help resolve the issue in the slightest. An

for initial seduction, and leave on long after

openly queer group from San Francisco, Darling

the post-coital cigarette. Personal favorites on

Gunsel takes electro-pop to an all new level.

the album include “Straight Girls,” of course,

Riding high on their success as electro-pop duo

“Dutch Courage,” and the title track “Unresolved

Ejector (voted San Francisco’s Best Local Band

Heart,” the text taken from a Rainer Maria Rilke

2010 by the SF Bay Guardian), synthesists Dr.

poem, naturally. This isn’t your usual addictive

Scott and Ricky Terry decided to embark on a

American/Kiwi queer electro-pop trio… This is

new challenge: a new electro-pop band with

an addictive American/Kiwi queer electro-pop

a female vocalist. By January 2012 they had

trio that quotes poetry. Regardless of gender

teamed up with New Zealand native Jezabel,

or sexual identity, Darling Gunsel will get your

a vivacious vocalist who helped create the

blood pumping and get you ready for the night,

Darling Gunsel we now know and love. In case

whatever it may bring.

you’v e been wondering, the word “gunsel” is old street slang that means a young hoodlum who’s kept as a sexual companion by an older

It’s the type of album that you turn on

SAN FRANCISCO

OF VERONA Electronica

Hypnotic, dark electronica that is close to

could score a soundtrack to a film that takes

otherworldly... That is the best way to describe

place in the not-too-distant future.” It’s a sci-fi

Los Angeles-based trio Of Verona. Formed

electro pop that will have you amped for hours

in 2010, Mandi Perkins, Dillon Pace and Jeff

on end and most probably ruin the soundtrack

Sojka have wor ked tirelessly to make their

of any futuristic film that you will see from your

grou p one of the most buzzworthy electronic

first listen onward. “Why didn’t they just hire Of

band on today’s music scene. After extensive

Verona?” you’ll ask yourself for the thousandth

touring, they released their first EP Fall Like

time, as the people around you glare. I would

Roses in 2011 to quiet, but considerable acclaim

not think it will be too much longer until you

from sources such as MTV Buzzworthy and Hits

do, in fact, hear Of Verona on soundtracks, as

magazine, the latter of which featured them as

well as on an international level of airplay that

one of the top five acts to break.

they richly deserve.

In 2012 the gro up released their first studio album, The White Apple , to even more praise, from critics and audiences alike. The album is a dark and ethereal experience and, to quote

LOS ANGELES

an iTunes reviewer, “[it sounds like] music that Dillon, Jeff, Mandi Photo Credit: of Verona Press Photo

TMI HOT PICKS

The Lonely Wild (Folk) Bootleg Theatre Sat, Jan 25 11pm $10

Birds Of A Black Feather (Southern Rock) The Satellite Thurs, Feb 13 9pm $15

Tyrone Wells (Pop) The Coach House Sat, Apr 12 8pm $20

NAHKO & MEDICINE FOR THE PEOPLE Ac o u s t i c T h u m p - h o p Medicine comes in all shapes and forms. There

melodies take on different faces each time you

are pills and therapy, religion for others, the love

listen to them. Nahko’s greatest gift undoubtedly

of family and friends. One of the most universal

lies in his lyrics—they explore the ebullient,

medicines is music, and few understand this

vibrant joy of life and the celebration of culture

as well as Nahko and Medicine for the People.

and identity; however, they also contain fearless

Fronted by Nahko Bear, this Portland-based group

condemnation of social ills, such as poverty,

is one of the best up-and-coming bands in the

racism,

United States, point blank. Their music is deeply

integrity that Nahko and his band have is nothing

introspective, social minded and, in a sense,

short of admirable. The love they have for

spiritual. Nahko, whose heritage draws from

humanity and our earth is transparent in every

Apache, Puerto Rican and Filipino backgrounds,

part of their music. If you watch the video for

was adopted into an American family and suffered

the song “Budding Trees” (by young and talented

from an identity crisis starting at an early age.

filmmaker Grototote), dozens of people are lip

It was through music though that he began to

synching to one song and showing what makes

heal, and, over the years, has found others like

them an undeniable part of humanity. It will

himself to join him on the journey of personal,

really make you feel like you’re part of something

spiritual, and communal growth through music.

special, and you are. Nahko Bear knows it, and

The music of Nahko and Medicine for the People

now you do as well.

cannot be readily summarized. Musically, they draw from a variety of sources, from hip-hop to folk, tribal to jazz. It’s largely focused on guitar and vocals, paired with good rhythms and

and

environmental

destruction.

The

PORTLAND Nahko Bear, Hope Medford, Don Corey, Jeanna McAnally, Aliina Champion & Time Tibner Photo Credit: Via Facebook

TMI HOT PICKS

Dent May (Singer Songwriter) Mississippi Studios Sun, Jan 26 8pm $10

Seance Crasher (Multi-instrumentalist) Valentines Tues, Jan 28

The Creepshow (Psychobilly) Doug Fir Lounge Tues, Apr 4 8pm $14

AIR DUBAI Hip-Hop

Nick Spriegl, Lawrence Grivich, Michael Ray, Taylor Tait Photo Credit: Luca Venter

TMI HOT PICKS

Quadron (Soul) The Ogden Theatre Tues, Feb 11 7pm $25

Gardens & Villa (Indie Rock) Larimer Lounge Tues, Mar 4 8pm $14

Lost in the Trees (Folk) Hi-Dive Sun, Mar 30 8pm $10

Hip-hop is a genre which has found its greatest

beats, it took about a year to decide to go a

success with individuals—you could probably

more organic route—by 2009, the group had

name ten great hip-hop artists off the top of

enlisted Nick Spreigl (drums), Lawrence Grivich

your head, but you’d have to really think to name

(guitar),

more than a couple of great hip-hop groups.

Taylor Tait (bass). Within two years, the band

Even then, most of those groups consist of a duo

had two albums, Wonder Age (2010) and Day

or a trio, nothing like, say, a sextet. That’s where

Escape (2011), with the EP Warning released

Found comes in, to introduce you to the best (or

in 2013. Air Dubai has received much critical

possibly only) six-piece alt hip-hop group on

and commercial acclaim, including being named

the scene, Air Dubai from Denver, Colorado. Air

Westword magazine’s “Best Hip-Hop Band” of

Dubai seamlessly melds a variety of styles from

2010, 2011 and 2012. With national airplay on

pop, soul, rock and electronica to its hip-hop

the radio to successful tours with OneRepublic,

base, creating an exhilarating experience for the

Lupe Fiasco and Jake Miller, this is one group

listener, whether you’re at the club or simply

you can’t afford not to hear!

Michael Ray (keyboard/synth), and

listening along at home. The group wasn’t always so large and genre-bending however; its origins date back to 2008 when high school friends Jon Shockness and Julian Thomas decided to create a hip-hop duo. Originally using pre-recorded

DENVER

WE BE LIONS Ro c k

Kid Fox, Ricky, Mike, Jake, Beats Photo Credit: Via We Be Lions Facebook

TMI HOT PICKS

Youth Code (EBM/ Industrial) The Slowdown Wed, Feb 5 8pm $8

Marshall Crenshaw (Power pop) The Waiting Room Lounge Sun, Mar 2 5pm $25

The Talbott Brothers (Folk Rock) The Barley Street Tavern Thurs, Mar 6

Somehow, in the wasteland of Nebraska, Omaha

was a four-song EP called Stray Cats, which came

has cultivated a thriving musical scene. The

out in December of 2012; the group is currently

‘00s saw the success of acts such as Bright

in the middle of recording their latest full-length

Eyes, Cursive, and Rilo Kiley, and now in our

album which is due to be released this winter.

awkwardly-named decade, we have another crop

Though I cited acts known for indie folksiness,

of Nebraskan musicians bringing up the ranks.

We Be Lions is nothing but. Loud and wild rock

Leading the pack is Omaha’s own We Be Lions,

‘n’ roll, they take influence from groups like Red

an up-and-coming five-piece rock group that has

Hot Chili Peppers, Sublime, and just a hint of old

already made a splash with local crowds and is on

school Incubus. These are young men with a clear

their way to dominating the Midwest. Formed in

idea of their musical style and how to achieve

early 2010, the band went through more changes

it. They’ve been called the perfect college rock

in their line-up than Lady Gaga does at an awards

band—their mix of rock, hip-hop and funk makes

show. During their second incarnation, We Be

for highly fun and energetic shows and albums,

Lions released a self-titled album in 2011—it

something that you will not want to miss.

received positive reviews and sold quite well, but by 2012, the group had reached its third and present incarnation. While learning past material, the new We Be Lions were also composing their own songs, and their first recording to be released

OMAHA

KRISTEN HEMPHILL Country

A Tulsa native, though Kristen Hemphill traipsed

hopefulness and lilting strings accompaniment.

down to Alabama last year to record her debut

Hemphill admitted to Urban Tulsa Weekly that

album, Future Man—a 14-track contemporary

while the man in “Future Man” is imaginary, he

country set that will charm and serenade you from

inspired the first song she ever wrote. Hemphill’s

your first drink until last call. Recording with

bright voice makes for a perfect cover of the

Grammy Award winner Gary Baker, Hemphill and

Beatles’ “I’ve Just Seen a Face” and “The Whole

writing partner, Sylvia Murray, began composing

Thing” comes in with a little more pop influence,

songs at an almost alarming rate, writing up

not unlike Lee Ann Womack. “Rhythm” strikes

to two songs a day. Though they were speedily

a sassy and country swing note, which, in my

written, you would never guess— Hemphill’s skill

opinion, perfectly embodies Hemphill’s persona

for composition and her talented accompaniment

and style.

give the tracks depth and maturity.

Pulling off covers and original pieces with more

Album opener and blues-tinged “White House

nuance than her pop/country peers, Hemphill’s

Waltz” will enchant you, and the acoustic version

sunny disposition and blues influences just may

will haunt you with its eerie harmonies. “One Step

have you pondering a trip to good ole Tulsa in

Behind” and “Slow Motion” are both warm, country

no time.

numbers that showcase Hemphill’s vocals with rolling melodies and classic heartbreak themes. Title track “Future Man” resonates with a sweet

TULSA

TMI HOT PICKS

The Dirtboxwailers (Blues Rock) The Colony Sat, Feb 8 10pm Nora Jane Struthers & The Party Line (Folk) Mercury Lounge Fri, Mar 21 8pm The Supersuckers (Rock n Roll) Cain’s Ballroom Wed, Apr 9 7pm $19

Kristen Hemphill Photo Credit: Jeremy Charles

ZHORA Pop-Electric

When

Dallas

folktronic

favorite,

Ishi,

disbanded in 2011, it left vocalist Taylor Rea to form her own dance pop baby Zhora. Joining her are Ross Martinez (drummer) and Adam Pickrell

(multi-instrumentalist,

producer)

and the three cut a mean dance track. Occasionally teaming up with other local instrumentalists such as Taylor Cleveland,

TMI HOT PICKS

Milkdrive (Progressive Acoustic) Dan’s Silverleaf Fri, Jan 31 9pm $12

The Theater Fire (Alt Country) The Live Oak Fri, Feb 7 8pm $10

Blackstone Rangers (Synthpop) Crown and Harp Sat, Feb 15 $8

Rea successfully melds soulful and danceable. After releasing a four track EP in January 2012, Zhora began making rounds locally most notably at Dallas’ Homegrown Festival and Art Con 2013. Garbed in glinty, space age appropriate costumes and fluorescent face paint, Rea cuts a fearsome and powerful figure on stage, whether accompanied or not. Zhora released their latest single “Lights” last October - the first original release since their 2012 EP. The single marks a slight departure from their previous style - a little more clubworthy, a little more 80s, and a lot more bold. Layering clear, light vocals with strong synth and electronic beats, “Lights” brings a slightly darker, more danceable twist to Zhora’s earlier releases and the result is eerily beautiful.

Zhora’s artful electronic

instrumentals and strong, lilting voice add a certain grace to her enchanting covers of “Last Christmas” and “Just Like Heaven.” Original song “Sunset” will take you back to early Madonna in the best of danceworthy ways, and “Futuristic Lands” dabbles in the dark dance beats that lace “Lights.” Part La Roux, part Desire, and with a solid dose of Madonna, Zhora’s personna and music raise the bar for their genre - paving the way for a new breed of electronic pop animal.

Taylor Rea Photo Credit: zhoramusic.com

DALLAS

THE MAD TEA G a ra g e Po p

Asheville’s punkabilly/garage rock band Mad Tea

debauchery. Much like the hatter and his friends,

recently changed their name from the iconic Mad

these two craft tunes that are a magical mess of

Tea Party. Thankfully, Mad Tea presents audiences

The Addams Family and garage rock. Each song an

with glorious sets of whimsical and upbeat tunes.

experience in its own right, the Mad Tea creates

Self-proclaimed “low brow” visual artist Jason

surprising and enchanting music without any real

Krekel and freelancer Ami Worthen manage to

guidelines or genre-it’s just really great rock’n’roll

meld a variety of sounds and genres (both pop

with a magic twist.

culture and musical) with apparent ease. Nimble instrumentals give way to playful lyrics and joyful melodies - everything about this mad duo

Jason Krekel and Ami Worthen Photo Credit: Max Cooper Photography

spells “f-u-n.” Apart from releasing a Christmas themed sampler, the duo have also released two EPs, Rock’n’Roll Ghoul (2010) and Zombie Boogie (2009), in addition to a full-length album Found a Reason (2008). Title track “Rock’n’Roll Ghoul” is a whirling dervish of a “uke-abilly” number, “Blues Slip In” is relentlessly cheerful, and “Possessed” brings out a more garage rock feel akin to The Chalets. With a solid dose of classic pop culture

TMI HOT PICKS

references (Krekel grew up steeped in monster and superhero culture) and Worthen’s writing prowess, the two make an unstoppably joyful team. The duo made an appearance at Charleston’s Rockabillaque last October and consistently appears at trademark Asheville establishments alongside other local favorites. The duo’s next year will hopefully be filled with cheer, recordings, and festivals galore. Though they’ve ditched the “party” part of their name, for reasons relating to a certain political faction, Krekel and Worthen remain true to their mission statement to spread happiness and

ASHEVILLE

Lake Street Drive (Indie Improv Rock) Grey Eagle Tues, Feb 25th 7pm $18 The Duhks (Acoustic Roots) Pisgah Brewing Company Sun, Mar 23 7pm $15 Daniel Rosen (Multi-Instrumental) Orange Peel Thurs, Apr 10 8pm $18

AMY &

/ / | /

L Y N N THE

Brimming with spunk and a grasp of 60s soul and pop that would make Aretha jealous, Amy Lynn and the Gunshow are a match made in heaven. Lynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s husband, and the bandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arranger, Alex Hamlin joins Jeff Hermanson, Ed RosenBerg, Michael Ross, Ben Gallina, Brian Whitted, James Jackson, and Ladiva Burns as the Gunshow, a musical company built on friendship and talent. After touring the US last summer, Amy Lynn and the Gunshow are hard at work putting all the energy and charisma of their live shows into a studio album. Fresh off a stint with the Radio City Christmas Show, Amy Lynn and the Gunshow are fresh faced and ready to take 2014 by sparkly, soulful storm.

GUN

SHOW Amy Lynn Zanetto, Alex Hamlin, Jeff Hermanson, Ed Rosenberg, Michael Ross, Ben Gallina, Briane Whitted Photos credit: Press

What diverted you from musical theater into what you're doing now?

Do you prefer being on tour versus doing shows (like the Radio City Music Hall gig) back home?

I think the fact that I'm able to create things on my own and with other people is what is inspiring to me, and is what led me in the direction of being in a band and writing music. Although I love theater and it will always have a special place in my heart, I wanted to do something that was on my own. I wanted to be able to create something from scratch - I think that's really exciting. You have an idea you start writing it down and all of a sudden you're performing it in front of people - I mean, it's magical that stuff like that can happen.

When we do Radio City, it's a nine to five job... I'll get up at 7:30 in the morning and get to the theater. I'll have about an hour to get into hair and makeup, then do a show and then I'm back home and I have the rest of the day to live my life.

Do you have a favorite musical to watch? which has been your favorite show to be a part of? I think my favorite musical is Into the Woods. My favorite musical that I did - it's called Beehive: The Musical. I love it so much because it's essentially a 60s music review. But it's a bit more than that because it shows the way that women were in the music scene from Dusty Springfield to Janis Joplin... and that's my favorite part in music.

You're a veteran of the Radio City Christmas shows - how long has this been going on? This will be my seventh year. [The show] changes every year, and that's kind of nice-you get to exercise different things and keep the brain working. This past year's show included a new number and different finale.

The thing about being on tour - of course I love performing at all the fantastic venues - but I really love performing my own music. Even though a lot of time in the car can be painful, the guys have been friends since college, so it really is like a family road trip. So, I have to go with touring!

Tell me a little bit more about your musical family. Everyone is connected and it’s such a tight knit group. When it comes to New York musicians, everyone knows each other so well and everyone goes to college together and then everyone is doing different gigs with one another - it’s just an amazing camaraderie and connection. It makes touring easy when you love and respect the people that you’re with constantly. Ed (horn) has been best friends with Alex since they were 17. Jeff (our other horn player) went to school with us and he’s just hilarious. Our tenor Brian is actually the musical director for Bette Midler. It’s amazing to have him in the group as well, because all the guys went to college together and then I have my piano player who I do the show with.

How did you first meet your husband? Tell me about live shows - does your theater background come in handy? My husband Alex is the saxophonist; [he] takes care of all the arrangements for the band. So, when we get on stage live, I pretty much try to let everything happen naturally. There's always a sense of improv, so it turns into, maybe, theater-esque. I'll crack jokes or interact with the audience a lot to engage everyone. I want everyone to be a part of it. You know - make them cry and make the laugh at the same time.

We met in Switzerland while I was doing the Grease European musical. Something happened to the saxophonist and Alex came in and filled her spot. We became friends and it turned into a little bit more than friends. When we came back, we found out we both lived in Brooklyn. We started collaborating with one another musically. Our styles complimented one another. We both love classical music and it was really just the right formula. After a bit we decided we should do something together, so we could work with one another instead of separately.

What inspires you most? Oh, God! So many things inspire me. Musical inspiration would be Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin, you know. I just love people that are passionate about things and people who are just doing what they want to do. I love that about people.

Your first concert? Neil Diamond, I was extremely young, but I still remember it - Neil Diamond has a great voice.

What advice do you have for bands and artists starting out? Every day we can all learn something different about our sound and our music. My advice to myself and to other people is to just keep writing, because the more you write, the more youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll write better music.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on deck for 2014? Do you have any goals for the upcoming year? Play out as much as possible: music festivals, and Europe.

Amy Lynn Zanetto, Ed Rosenberg, Alex Hamlin Photos credit: Press

Favorite gig to date? Out and About at Six Flags

Current obsessions? Almond butter. And an Aretha Franklin album that I've been listening to non-stop.

Personal mantra or motto? Enjoy every moment in your life and stay in the present. Take it all in and enjoy every step of the process and the journey.

Word on the street is that you all have a new album coming out as well. We're coming out with our debut album in the spring of 2014 - it's called Don't Trip on the Glitter and it's nine songs. We're in the mastering process right now and I think it's coming out great. I'm really happy with it and I think that the fans and everyone's going to be really pleased as well. We did just release a new single, "Walking in the Sand" in December. You can download it for free.

What was your intention behind production of this album? The goal with this album was to really capture what we do live: taking the show that we've been performing on the road for the entire year and putting it into a full length album. We want people to hear our album and know that's exactly what they're going to see and hear live. I think that our other Ep's didn't do that as well. I think we're really starting to capture our sound and what our show is all about which, you know, is soul, rock and jazz fused together. I'm really, really thrilled about it.

In a perfect world, your day would go like this... Wake up in the morning, go to the diner with my husband and have an amazing breakfast, go to the studio and record a song, then probably go get sushi for dinner. Maybe throw in a yoga class in between.

What's your favorite part of your job? My favorite part is working with my husband. I think that it's just an incredible experience. You know, for so long I was single and all this time you're on your own and, it's just, it's a hard business the entertainment business. It can get difďŹ cult and it can get lonely. So the fact that I get to do what I love with him is my favorite part.

GET READY

AMY LYN & THE GUNSHOW DEBUT

ALBUM

THIS SPRING!

FOR

NN E Wâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

All Photos: Amy Lynn Zanetto, Alex Hamlin Jeff Hermanson, Ed Rosenberg Michael Ross, Ben Gallina Briane Whitted Photos credit: Press

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ode to the web Propellerhead’s easy and fast interface and design

or years, I have been fascinated with disc jockeys. I

three core elements of a DJ: drums, bass and lead.

could never quite grasp how they wrapped their

The interface is one of the tightest and simplistic I’ve

heads around all those buttons to create that sound. It

seen, with tabs that are smartly placed allowing the

was one thing when they would fade songs in and out,

user to effortlessly switch back and forth for instant

but once I started hearing original sounds and

tweaks and adjustments. Free guides and links are

remixes, it seemed unlikely to ever replicate or create

available if you want to hone your skills, and you

that same sound. Of course now there are programs

can quickly save a project you’ve been working on

and “easy to DJ” tutorials, but I wanted something a

to your phone or upload to your computer for

little smoother, easier and faster. Propellerhead was

future tampering when you have another surge of

exactly that, and more. Powered by Reason, a cutting

inspiration. All of that being said, pricing this app

edge desktop music software company, this little app

at $2.99 is a no-brainer steal. I promise with a

packs a punch with a built-in Thor Polysonic

little practice, you’ll pick it up in no time. Spice up

Synthesizer and Kong Drum Designs. Translation?

your commute for three bucks and release your

Extremely high quality sounds revolving around the

inner spinster.

“...this little app packs a punch with a built-in Thor Polysonic Synthesizer and Kong Drum Designs.”

Propellerhead’s simple interface design

Homepage of dustandgrooves.com

reated by Brooklyn native and world-traveling

photographer Eilon Paz, Dust and Grooves is an amazing compilation of interviews and photos delving into the world of vinyl collectors and their love for those black spinning things that somehow magically make music. For a charming personal touch, each collector has a breakdown of their favorite records, when they got them, and what it means to them. This is one of the most intriguing parts about the site—of course, the collections are absolutely jaw dropping, but it’s the collectors themselves and their deeply rooted passion for music that makes this website so remarkable. For example, one collector, Rutherford Chang, only collects first press vinyls of the Beatles’ White Album, and then displays at an art spot in Soho. Where some record scavengers like Chang are more about display and history (the ‘dust’ side of the site), others are enchanted by the rare quality of sound that certain albums have even after all these years (the ‘groove’). Either way, Paz has an amazing way of capturing his features in their natural habitat. In a world that is ruled by digitized music and auto-tune, this website is a wonderful tribute and forget-me-not to those days when you weren’t allowed to skip a track, when you couldn’t edit the sound in any way. With constant updates and a hip interface, Dust and Grooves is my new friendly reminder when of the history and poetry embedded in the music industry. Support vinyl!

“...the collections are absolutely jaw-dropping, but it’s the collectors themselves and their deeply rooted passion for music that makes this website so remarkable.”

reel music

n recent history, only one Steve McQueen

Adapted from the 1853 autobiography, 12 Years a

ruled Hollywood-the great American actor of

Slave tells the harrowing story of Solomon Northup

the ‘60s and ‘70s also known as “The King of

(Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free New York violinist drugged,

Cool”—but as of late, the name brings to mind

shackled and sold into slavery. For a little over a

a British film director whose work has been

decade Solomon fights, not for freedom, but for life.

described as “daring,” “audacious,” and

The film, starring Ejiofor, Benedict Cumberbatch,

“timely.” And while his films display the

Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong’o, Sarah Paulson,

craftsmanship of a true artist, the music,

Brad Pitt, and Alfree Woodard, has received critical

though subtle, serves as the stain and polish with

acclaim,

but

importantly,

sparked

which McQueen finishes his work.

conversations nationwide about race in America.

The adage “music from and inspired by” printed on

While enslaved, Solomon resorts to playing his violin

the 12 Years a Slave soundtrack cover only hints at

in search of happiness, until that, too, becomes a

the rich musicality rooted in gospel, blues, R&B,

reminder of his imprisonment. American violinist

folk, and bluegrass. The album, composed by Hans

Tim Fain, who also performed on Black Swan’s score,

Zimmer and curated by John Legend, brings

is the man behind Ejiofor’s musicianship. “Yarney’s

together musicians from all genres including Alicia

Waltz,” “Devil’s Dream,” and “Money Musk,” three

Keys, Chris Cornell, Tim Fain, the Alabama Shakes,

masterful tracks totaling three minutes, display with

Gary Clark Jr. and Laura Mvula.

grace and vigor Solomon’s sought-after talent. Screenshot from 12 Years A Slave.

Cover art for 12 Years A Slave.

A better comparison would be between “Solomon” and “Brandon,” a track Harry Escott composed for McQueen’s last film, Shame. Both songs take a minimalistic approach, gradually building on the sound of a single instrument. Instead of the chord progression, Escott achieves his dramatic effect through

gradual

crescendo

and

ostinato

patterns. It’s clear by comparison that McQueen’s vision for the music correlates to that of his characters’ struggles. Unlike Zimmer, the album curator, R&B singer John Legend, experienced a bold desire, a calling of sorts, to create upon seeing the film. “I was so moved when I saw [12 Years a Slave]” Legend said in a press release issued by Columbia Records. “I felt every minute of it and was so inspired to Composer Hans Zimmer for 12 Years A Slave.

contribute to the music of the soundtrack… When artists are inspired by great art, it makes us want to

Hans Zimmer composed the last two orchestral

create. This album is the result of that inspiration.”

tracks: “Washington” and “Solomon.” In a recent interview with Collider, Zimmer admitted to

Legend’s contribution to the album led to the

hesitancy when McQueen approached him to write

restructuring of “Roll, Jordan Roll,” the Negro

the score, “I felt I wasn’t the guy… I felt it was such

spiritual sung in mourning by several slaves in the

an important heavy subject. Why is he choosing

film. The R&B singer croons his way through the

me?” Being that the two had never worked together

lyrics while managing to anchor his voice in

before, but had shown much appreciation for each

emotional toil. Legend sings a cappella, backed by

other’s work, it didn’t take long for McQueen to

two singers, in efforts to capture the song as it

convince him that he was the man for the job.

would’ve been sung in the past.

Zimmer’s attention to musical progression and

The simplicity in sound carries on to the

character development coupled with McQueen’s

contributions from the other artists. The Alabama

meticulous cinematic style resulted in “Solomon,”

Shakes keep hold to their blues-rock roots in

a heartbreaking string ballad that proved the

“Driva Man”—a stand-out track that honors the

collaboration a success. At first listen, “Solomon”

Jazz age of the 60s. Cut from the same cloth, Laura

resembles Zimmer’s past work, specifically “Time”

Mvula’s sultry take on the classic “Little Girl Blue”

from Inception. While the two tracks mirror each

does wonders to the soul. She holds her own in an

other in chord progression and harmonies, a style

arena already populated with renditions from the

signature of Zimmer’s work, the execution differs.

great Nina Simone, Janis Joplin, and Diana Ross.

he’s a breath of fresh air

One must wonder what time portal Gary Clark Jr. fell through; in an industry where auto tune is king.

Screen shots from 12 Years A Slave.

In “Freight Train” and “When the Sun Goes Down” Gary Clark Junior’s voice resembles that of a man who has been through hell and back, experiencing every human emotion along the way. The Texas native’s serenading voice takes us back to simpler times. Accompanied by an electric guitar, he nails the mid-30s style from which the song originates. One must wonder what time portal Gary Clark Jr. fell through; he’s a breath of fresh air in an industry where auto tune is king. Alicia Keys does what she does best in “Queen of the Fields.” While it may be the most produced track on the album, it brings to memory past efforts from her debut album Songs in a Minor. She’s in her element, playing piano alongside an ensemble of percussion instruments, a place many have longed to see her return. The song’s lyrics, like that of the other tracks, ask that we look at humanity and find the beauty within the struggle. Whether McQueen’s characters are battling the political system by means of starvation (Hunger (2008)), struggling with sex addiction (Shame (2011)), or fighting to regain freedom (12 Years a Slave (2013)), one thing is certain: in each story the music rides parallel, never second, to the narrative. The man known for his mercurial subject matters and long shots laced in dramatic realism, has once again given audiences a mirror to reflect; this soundtrack is the elegant framework in which that mirror sets.

spin-off

1. "You’re Not Good Enough"- Blood Orange

8. "WLWYCD"- Polar Bear Club

2. "Says"- Nils Frahm

9. "Living for the Future"- Vex Ruffin

3. "When You Lose Your Mind" - The Royal Oui

10. "What Death Leaves Behind"- Los Campesinos!

4. "Love the House You’re In" - Moonface

11. "Friends" - ILLLS

5. "Gazelle"- André Obin

12. "Lefty Lucy" - BYOG

6. "Mermaid" - Swearin’

13. "Me and You"- Jake Bugg

7. "Whalesong" - Yamantaka // Sonic Titan

14. "Heaven" - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!

staff selected tracks from The Seasonal Spin

seasonal spin

Blood Orange /

Cupid Deluxe

Dev Hynes is one of the coolest people in music. Born and raised Ilford, Essex, Hynes has been singing, composing, songwriting, producing and writing for years. A true renaissance man of the music world, he has been involved in many different genres of music as a writer and performer, writing songs for Florence Welch on her #1 2009 album release Lungs and for The Chemical Brothers for their 2007 Grammy award-winning album We Are The Night. Touring in and out of many bands for much of his career, Hynes created a stage persona/project, Blood Orange, that showcases yet another extremely creative side to him. The follow up to 2011’s Coastal Grooves, Blood Orange returns with some truly hypnotizing and fluid tracks on Cupid Deluxe. Even from the first track, “Chamakay” brings forward some Prince-esque vocal vibes that blend beautifully with the subtle percussion and smooth bass lines. Once we get halfway through the album, Hynes surprises with two or three tracks featuring some ear-worthy rap, proving his versatility as an artist. With some great guest vocals, Cupid Deluxe has a distinct positivity that will have you moving.

Nils Frahm /

Spaces

Spaces could not be a better name for this album. If you are a fan of beautiful, atmospheric music, Nils Frahm is your man. Born in Hamburg, Germany and based in Berlin, Frahm takes you to the moon and back in this eleven track album spanning the course of close to two hours. Frahm refers to the album as a “not-exactly-live live album,” taking recordings from over 30 live performances under a two year period. The album flows flawlessly, however, and captures him creating massive soundscapes (reminiscent of a Sigur Ros album) to booming classical pieces that truly showcase his talent. A true ivory man since childhood, Frahm was taught to play piano by Nahum Brodski, a student of the last scholar of Tchaikovsky (one of the pioneers of piano in the 19th century). With that background in his back pocket, Frahm has an incredible sense of blending classical piano playing with contemporary composing. On his other albums, the sense of him in a studio by himself is what is enchanting about his melodies, with small mistakes and echoes that make them extremely intimate. On Spaces, however, the live audience element makes these intimacies come to life. Absolutely gorgeous, a must buy.

The Royal Oui

/ Forecast

Husband and wife team Ari Shrine and Adrienne Pierce managed to make it on their own as solo artists, but they recently came together as pop/folk duo The Royal Oui—and magic happened. The Vancouver-based duo released their first EP Forecast last fall via File Under: Music. “When You Lose Your Mind” slowly gains dreamy momentum as their harmonies float above an acoustic folk melody. The track dips into easy, twirling choruses and verses, building to the song’s sweet finish. Second track “Actual Size,” picks up the pace a little with a fuzzy and warm feel. The duo’s voices, layered with the hazy instrumentals give the entire track an shining, eclectic feel. Forecast reflects the duo’s bright and whimsical nature, foretelling of good weather and times ahead.

Moonface /

Julia With Blue Jeans On

Part Nick Cave, part The Beatles, and yet so much more, multi-instrumentalist Spencer Krug began making music as Moonface as a side project designated for musical bits and bobs that did not align themselves with his array of collaborations. Simple piano melodies rush into deeply emotional ballads, as they do in “November 2011.” Krug’s voice softly declares, “I am a barbarian” throughout both “Barbarian” and “Barbarian II,” against haunting piano accompaniment. The album’s title track is a dreamy love ballad with Krug’s voice at its best, nimble and vibrant, accompanied by a slowly building, classically clear piano. “Love the House You’re In” echoes of classical piano tradition with poignantly clear lyrics, “I regretfully withdraw my offer to improve myself... You’ve got to love the house you’re in.” Moonface’s inherent penchant for using classical music bits and adding them to his otherworldly yet accessible bobs makes Julia With Blue Jeans On a moving and enjoyable album such that we have not seen in a long while.

André Obin /

The Arsonist (remixes)

In his first full-length album, Boston synth-pop master André Obin creates a hypnotic soundscape to astound and amaze. Electronic pop is the name of his game, and The Arsonist takes home all the prizes. It’s a masterful record, one created by a musician who knows exactly what he wants. The sweeping crescendos are overwhelming; Obin’s music is so all-encompassing that you don’t even notice that the music has absolutely engulged you until you’re halfway through the album. It’s the kind of music that you could dance and sway to for hours without ever feeling tired. Greeted with wide acclaim and critical success, The Arsonist is one of, if not the, best electronic albums of the year, and quite possibly the decade.

Swearin’ /

Surfing Strange

Philadelphia rock band Swearin’s second album Surfing Strange is a strange brew of punk, rock, and indie. Everything from their dissonant harmonies to crashing guitar riffs, displayed perfectly in album opener “Dust in the Gold Sack,” quickly mixing in girly punk vocals. Dissonant vocals and arching, summery guitar melody feature heavily in “Watered Down,” with everything fading together in a casual, breezy way. “Mermaid” is a whiskey stained rock ballad with delightfully grungy chords, while “Parts of Speech” keeps a steady, slower pace and eerie, echoing vocals. The album really hits its stride with “Melanoma,” a more thoughtful and melancholic ballad that winds its way into your memory. “Loretta’s Flowers” embodies both whispering pop, sweet and slow punk that will have you hitting “replay” time and time again. Last but not least, they pay homage to old school psychedelia in “Glare of the Sun,” and to vintage punk in “Unwanted Place.” A strange brew of psychedelia, beach punk, and rock, Swearin’ hits just the right notes to weave a wonderfully intoxicating album.

Yamantaka // Sonic Titan /

UZU

UZU is a trip down the rabbit hole—a rock’n’roll, Japanese art-filled, psychedelic rabbit hole of wonders. Multi-instrumentalist duo Alaska B and Ruby Kato Attwood celebrate Asian heritage and art in a thunderously original and inspiring manner. Their edgy rock melodies mixes with shimmering Japanese vocals and artful flourishes that make each song a nightmare and dream inducing journey. “Seasickness Pt 1” lulls the listener into a gray, melancholy dream state before “Seasickness Pt 2” takes the stage, incorporating 80s backbeat and tinkering instrumentals alongside ethereal vocals. Strange and intriguing, “Bring Me the Hand of Bloody Benzaiten” plays off the group’s more theatrical numbers, and the listener can feel the piece setting the stage for a climactic scene. “Saturn’s Return” plays like an underwater fairytale-somewhat muted and dreamy, vocals and piano instrumentals floating and lightly playing off of one another. The duo’s rock opera style and penchant for the theatrical put the imagination of an entire world into a single shimmering album.

Polar Bear Club /

Death Chorus

With pounding drums, driving guitars and frontman Jimmy Stadt’s high energy vocals, Death Chorus reaffirms Polar Bear Club as one of the most commercially viable post-punk bands in the country. Characterized by Jimmy Stadt’s high, almost screaming vocals and thrashing guitars played over fast tempo drums and a pounding bass guitar, Death Chorus sounds a bit more adolescent than you would expect from a band three albums deep in their genre. Each of the ten tracks moves at a fast pace and unmistakably places the band firmly in the pop punk category. Fans of the genre’s inception in the late 70s and early 80s may be surprised by the album’s heavy emotional component, including the band’s attitude toward love and death, the past and future. This album will draw fans of Yellowcard and Taking Back Sunday-a solid effort and musically sound rendition of a modern take on the post-punk genre.

Vex Ruffin /

Vex Ruffin

Vex Ruffin’s self-titled offering will leave your eardrums wondering what you have just listened to, and why you like it so much. To understand what I’m saying, you need to give the album a few listens, maybe a day between each one. One thing that jumps out right away is Vex’s voice – a monotonous, nasal drone that somehow complements his choice of snare drums and bass effects extremely well, best exemplified on “It Will Come”. Each of the songs on the EP have the same basic ingredients – simple, expressive drum beats, droning vocal track, and sludgy bass. No two tracks sound quite the same, and it’s definitely unlike any other electronic no-wave offering we’ve heard so far. According to the man himself, the album is made up of songs from a catalogue of literally hundreds of songs, so it will be interesting to see what Vex comes out with next. But this album is truly one of the most weirdly satisfying products of its genre, and is absolutely worth a listen.

Los Campesinos! /

No Blues

Somewhere along the way over the past few years/since..., Los Campesinos! grew up. I first heard the Cardiff-based group back in 2008, my freshman year of college. “You! Me! Dancing!” was one of those songs I listened to on manic repeat and drove my roommate crazy. I don’t know what happened, but I fell out of touch with Los Campesinos!, as is wont to happen with too many relationships, until their latest studio album, No Blues, reunited us. What I remember is a happy twee-pop band, but I was greeted with a mature, indie-rock outfit. In this case, “mature” doesn’t mean “boring,” it means “masterful.” Los Campesinos! are as fun as they ever were and, after five full-length albums, they have a direction and drive that I was not familiar with a few years ago. No Blues is a toe-tapping, head-bopping, ass-shaking album, and it’s like a night out on the town with an old friend.

ILLLS /

Hideout from the Feeders

ILLLS is Steven Ross, pop/post punk musician who is hard to pin down, but crafts a beautifully hazy music with pop, rock, and punk influences. Hideout from the Feeders is his followup to his debut EP Dark Paradise, released in 2012. “Out” plays like a marching tune to a strange dream with echoing, beachy guitar instrumentals. “Colleen” and “Our Shadow” are fuzzy, hopeful numbers with arching melodies and sweet lyrics. “Coma” bounces around in a heavenly haze with vocals playing second string to the guitars and drums, and “Wales” progresses similarly in a ballad-like manner. Ethereal female vocals lace choruses in “In Gray,” and “Friends” echoes in a similarly beach afternoon manner, especially with the filtered vocals. “In the Woods” is a rousing and fun number that makes a great album closer with it’s chantey choruses and Grouplove-like guitar melody. All in all, Hideout from the Feeders is a solid, delightfully dark album that will have you reminiscing about carefree days, with a punk rock twist, of course. It’s a strange brew, especially when put into words, but the experience itself is indescribably wonderful.

BYOG /

Out of the Dark

Recorded at Willie Nelson’s studio in Austin, Texas, BYOG’s (Bring Your Own Groove) debut album is a smart compilation of feel good jams that range from the nostalgic and bittersweet to funny and upbeat. Album opener “Lefty Lucy” starts things off with a funky, goofy beat. “Silver Teeth” follows suit with jam-worthy piano and guitar melodies. “Satisfied Alone” rings in with a sweet rock theme and blues guitar solo. Now really in their groove, they continue “The Cost,” a Red Hot Chili Peppers-reminiscent number. “Shattered Wheel” and “Stone Rodeo” take more downbeat turns that really showcase their poignant lyrics and vocals. “Renaissance Man,” the album’s last track, employs harmonies and folk-inspired melodies to bring a more wistful and thoughtful tone to the album. All in all, a great album, and a debut album nonetheless!

Jake Bugg /

Shangri-La

If Shangri-La was indie-rock style blues played by a young British man, then for all accounts and purposes, I am there. Nottingham-based musician Jake Bugg released Shangri-La last November, and masterfully avoided the dreaded sophomore slump. Shangri-La is a roller coaster of high octane folk rock songs. Bugg’s nasal tenor and plunky guitar makes his music sound much older than his years, like he was plopped in 2013 directly from 1963. He reminds me a bit of a contemporary Wanda Jackson, and, though he’s a British boy, Bugg rips the Southern country blues style out of him for all its worth. Shangri-La is worth its weight in the ambrosia they drink in earthly paradise.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah! /

Little Moments

Two words—IN LOVE. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah’s second EP titled Little Moments is effortlessly flawless and perfect in all the ways. Formed in 2005 in Philadelphia, PA, Alec Ounsworth and Sean Greenhalgh released Little Moments in August 2013 with more synth, less guitar, and a trippier attitude. Their omniscient aura is relaxing; instead of screaming and crying about their problems, they are simply explaining them with a calm energy. “Little Moments” is one of my favorites simply because the opening reminds me of the old-school, 8-bit Nintendo game Outrun (if you don’t know what that is, I’m sorry…just sorry). “Only Run” basically gives a giant “F-U” to whoever broke his heart, but in the most polite way possible, which is completely endearing, and Sean’s backup vocals tie the track together in a bittersweet basket of emotions. It’s just one of those albums you can sit at home and listen while petting your cat, or live, where you may, or may not be “la da di da di, dancing with molly.” If you do one good thing this year, since New Year’s resolutions are already out the door, purchase this EP, and look for the full-length album tentatively out April 2014.

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THE GOLD PARTY E l e c t r o/ I n d i e

TMI HOT PICKS

Dirty Bourbon River Show (Gypsy Brass) The Melting Point Sat, Feb 1 8pm $15 New Madrid (Indie Rock) 40 Watt Club Thurs, Feb 13 8pm $31 The Whiskey Gentry (Bluegrass) Georgia Theatre Fri, Apr 4 8pm $10 Dan Geller, Benji Barton Brian Smith, Sethen Maleno

Athens DJ and GO BAR veteran Dan Geller (bass,

down favorites “Luxury and Light” and “Discolite”

beats, shapes), formerly of Boulevard, heads this

showcase the band’s nimble melodies and effects

indie electro quartet as they churn out pop and synth

without overwhelming the senses. “On Your Side,”

infused dance hits. After Boulevard disintegrated,

its accompanying remix, and “Smoothie” are equally

Gellar’s remix of their song “Discolite” inspired

as catchy but tone down the dance floor, taking on a

fellow GO BAR goers Benji Barton (vocals, keys,

darker tone than the bouncy “Luxury and Light” and

guitar), Brian Smith (guitar, vocals, synthetics),

“Discolite.” Regardless, The Gold Party’s tracks lay

and Sethen Maleno (drums) to complete the indie

down serious electro business, bringing well-crafted

electro dream team.

and intelligent tracks to the table. Introspective

Since 2009 the team has released four tracks

and only occasionally melancholic lyrics pair with

and a few remixes to date, the band teases that

infectious synth-laced beats in a manner similar to

they are currently recording and producing their

legends David Bowie and Peter Murphy.

freshman LP amidst playing their usual slew of gigs around Athens’ bar and music scene. In 2011, they released their first EP, dubbed Luxury &

Light via Athens-based Kindercore Records. Hands

ATHENS

QUEEN SHEBA S p o ke n Wo r d

If you ask Queen Sheba how she became a genius,

as well as “from coffeehouse to Coliseum” in the

she’ll reply, “I was born.” Born Bethsheba A. Rem,

US. Queen Sheba has been published in a score of

the Queen is one of the reigning spoken word

magazines and poetry journals, spoken at over two

artists not only in the United States, but in all of

hundred universities (along with being the poet in

North America. The debate of whether or not lyrics

residence at the University of Illinois-Champaign

are poetry has been a long and hotly contested

Urbana, and been the key note speaker at events

argument, but no artist blurs the line as well as

such as Take Back the Night, Domestic Violence,

Queen Sheba; endless lines of brilliance are dropped

AIDs Awareness for Young Adults, and the National

over neo-soul tunes and hip-hop beats with award-

Women in Hip-Hop conference. It’s always a little

winning musicians. It’s no small wonder that two

unnerving when you find such a good artist. You

of her albums have been nominated for Grammy

don’t know quite what to do with yourself… All

Awards, and Sheba herself has been nominated the

I know is that I’m going to keep listening to the

NAACP Image Award for her works in the hip-hop

Queen all night long.

feminist anthology, Home Girls Make Some Noise. She is ridiculously and unapologetically talented, and that talent has taken her all over the world, touring in Europe, West Africa, Cuba and Canada, Bethsheba A. Rem

ATLANTA TMI HOT PICKS

Gaelic Storm (World) Terminal West Wed, Jan 29 7pm $20 Lucy Wainwright (Singer-Songwriter) Eddie’s Attic Tues, Feb 18 7:30pm $20 Johnny Clegg Band (South African) Variety Playhouse Wed, Mar 26 7pm $35

JPRIZM Space-Hop

TMI HOT PICKS

Trusty Sidekick (Rock n Roll) Sally O’Brien’s Sun, Jan 26 8pm Porch Party Mamas (Urban Folk) Club Passim Sun, Mar 16 4:30pm $18 White Laces (Future Tech) Paradise Rock Club Thurs, Apr 17 9pm $15

JPRIZM Photo Credit: JPRIZM (via jprizm.com)

Boston is one of those special places where college

Block” and “Vigil N Tea,” which JPRiZM describes

kids and talented yuppies make nerdy endeavors

as “a theme song to a superhero nation.” Need

mainstream and, dare we say it, cool. JPRiZM lives

something more old school? Try the album’s title

up to the Bostonian bar, flawlessly melding virtual

track. Other notable tracks “Feelin” and “North

vibes and bass heavy beats with smart lyrics. The

Star” feature smooth summertime vibes and

rapper singer-songwriter claims to have started

otherworldly choruses.

rapping around the age of eight or nine. Citing old

The Bostonian acknowledges the city’s particular

school R&B albums and 90s video game sounds

penchant for the diverse, creative, and geeky,

as inspirations, JPRiZM, born Jared Price, mixes

noting that the college student population makes

beats, melodies and verses on his own, likening

for a great audience and fanbase. Without taking

his recording process to “Walter White status,

much downtime, JPRiZM released two new tracks

Breaking Bad in the lab all day.”

on his SoundCloud in November, including several

After releasing his debut album, Ethereal , under

remixes, freestyle tracks, and recorded numbers.

the moniker kNOBBS in 2012, he put his mind into

With seemingly endless pop culture references

recording a mixtape under his new name, JPRiZM.

and sick beats, JPRiZM’s rhythms and rhymes

The result was MiNDWALKER , a full length album

should set him on the fast track for adoration in

that dropped last summer. Brimming with energy,

our geeky nation.

MiNDWALKER is a hypnotic mix of 90s nostalgia and futuristic trip-hop. Fans of Childish Gambino will automatically gravitate towards “Writer’s

BOSTON

SUSTO D a r k Co u n t r y

Here at Found , we definitely support local music.

the aching of young love with both its lyrics and

And for us, local is Charleston, South Carolina,

lonely guitars. Tracks like “Acid Boys” have a

so the boys from Susto are our own homegrown

more robust sound, and explore a young person’s

talent! The group’s name is taken from a folk

urge to explore and to create a better (or at

illness that is defined as a “fright sickness” and,

least more interesting) life. “I don’t want to die

literally, a loss of soul from the body. Symptoms

here, not now.” Those words have particular

include

insomnia,

meaning coming from a Southern band. At times

listlessness, and despondency, among others. The

Northerners seem to regard the South as a dying

most effective treatment for susto is a ceremony

country, but, as you can see, it’s still full of life.

known as the barrida, or “sweeping.” As much

Instead, we may just have a touch of susto, and

as I love the name Susto, I think they might be

are in need of a barrida-and that’s exactly where

better suited calling themselves “Barrida”—their

Susto the band comes in to save the day.

nervousness,

anorexia,

music is a soulful sweeping of emotions, and they get you right in the folky emotions. Susto defines their music as “dark country,” which fits very well. Songs like “Smoking Outside” capture

CHARLESTON Taylor McClesky, Eric Mixon, Johnny Delaware, Jordan Hicks, Justin Osborne

TMI HOT PICKS

The Hooten Hallers (Hillbilly) The Royal American Wed, Jan 29 9pm $5

Caked Up (dj) The Music Farm Sun, Feb 23 7:30pm $25

The Dirty Guv’nahs (Rock n Roll) The Charleston Pour House Thurs, Mar 27 8:30pm $15

CALEB L’ETOILE DJ

TMI HOT PICKS

Albert “Tootie” Heath (Jazz) Bohemia Caverns Fri, Jan 31 8:30pm $25 Touche Amore (Screamo) Black Cat Sun, Mar 2 7pm $18 Tycho (Ambient) 9:30 Club Sun, Apr 20 7pm $20

Caleb L’Etoile Photos Credit: via Facebook

DJ, producer, and Blisspop contributor Caleb

bloggers nationwide. Notable tracks, though there

L’Etoile has a SoundCloud littered with official

are many, include ARMS’ “Sympathetic Strings”

remixes and a few original pieces, including his

and Cage the Elephant’s “Always Something.” Truly

sensational remix of Lorde’s “Ribs,” that have

a master in his own right, Caleb’s original tracks

earned him critical and popular praise. Citing

do not disappoint. “Reservoirs” floats exquisitely

Farley

and joyfully - it’s a shimmering, shiny track that

Jackmaster

Funk’s

“Love

Can’t

Turn

Around” as inspiration, Caleb L’Etoile has been

brings summer’s essence to music.

entrancing audiences at D.C. clubs and Blisspop

Though he’s garnered a solid following in our

events, all while crafting his own EP. Though he

nation’s capitol, Caleb’s unprecedented skill is

started out participating in punk music, his talents

sure to earn him national and international renown

have been put to good use remixing and writing

before too long. With his insightful instrumentals

original music.

and delightfully smart dance beats, Mr. L’Etoile’s

Caleb’s

skill

infuses

masterful

electronic

instrumentals with a little extra twist, turning each song on its head without drowning out the original track. It’s an enlightening electronic turn that inevitably makes each original track even better. A native to D.C., the young DJ has earned accolades

and

notable

mentions

from

music

tunes set themselves apart, raising the bar for electronic remixes and original music alike.

NATURAL CHILD D a r k Co u n t r y

Nashville has recently become a hotbed of up-

towards sex, drugs and alcohol. “I don’t love you

and-coming artists, with iconic venues such as the

baby/ I just love that ass” they cheerfully proclaim

Ryman and the Exit/Inn bringing hungry fans the

in “B$G P$MP$IN,” off their sophomore album

latest music from the world over. The scene is as

Hard in Heaven, released in October 2012. With

intimidating as it is legendary. Setting oneself up as

nine tracks clocking in at 36 minutes, it’s a fast ride

a band or musician can seem daunting at best and

and the only reprieve is the somewhat trance-y title

near-impossible at worst. However, there is one act

track that shows the band returning to the roots

in Nashville today that is on the cusp of breaking

of electric blues with a steady bluesy bass line and

out – enter Natural Child, everybody.

easy-going drum beats complimenting distorted

The self-proclaimed “greatest rock n’ roll band

guitar riffs and solos. Compared with band’s first

in the world” was formed in 2011 by bassist Wes

album For Love of the Game, Hard in Heaven stands

Traylor and drummer Zack Martin. They brought

up better as a fully Natural Child release, while For

on bass player Seth to make a blend of rock and roll

Love of the Game still saw the band getting used to

all their own, even if they borrow certain elements

its own sound. Catch their music on Spotify, or look

from influences such as the White Stripes, the Black

them up on Facebook. And don’t miss a live show if

Keys, and Kings of Leon. Favoring a stripped down,

Natural Child comes your way—it’s sure to be a hell

no-nonsense approach to rock music, Natural

of a concert.

Child takes the precedent set by Jack White et al to the next level with their high energy tempos and lyrics that express a youthfully exuberant attitude

NASHVILLE

Wes, Seth, Zack Natural Child Ofﬁcial Photo

TMI HOT PICKS

Cloverdayle (Country) The Listening Room Cafe Wed, Feb 5 6pm

Solids (Rock) The End Tues, Mar 18 9pm $10

Cut Copy (Psychedelic) Marathon Music Works Wed, Mar 19 7pm $25

THE COFFIN DAGGERS Psyc h e d e l i c S u r f P u n k Surf music and B-horror films are two cornerstones

staple of the live New York scene, the group will

of modern Americana, or at least, idealized idealized

have you thrashing around the dance floor until

Americana. The Coffin Daggers take the carefree

you’re covered in sweat and about to collapse,

nature of surf music, dramatics of B-horror films,

and still you scream for an encore. Frankly, it’s

and good old-fashioned punk to create some truly

refreshing to hear an entirely instrumental band,

kick-ass music. The group dates back to early 1999,

especially one with such infectious sound and

founded by Viktor Venom (who you punk rock kids

energy. So if you find yourself in New York (or if

may know as one of the founders of Nausea, as

The Coffin Daggers are headed toward a town near

well as a member of Reagan Youth and Chaos UK).

you), pull yourself up from the computer for a night

Venom, along with Rob Morrison and Peter Klarnet,

of surf punk. For everyone else, you can check out

takes influence from a variety of artists, such as

The Coffin Daggers’ first album, Monsters of the

Link Wray, Henry Mancini, Duke Ellington, and

Id, available online for purchase and streaming.

of course, the Cramps. The guitars and keyboards

Try not to start a one-person mosh.

are beyond compare in this group—mad rhythms and melodies keep the listener in a trance, while an expertly placed theremin ensnares you. While The Coffin Daggers’ music is instrumental, the absence of lyrics does not leave the audience in want. A

NYC

TMI HOT PICKS

DK & The Joy Machine (Percussive Singer-Songwriter) The Way Station Tues, Jan 28 7pm Black Taxi (Rock) Rockwood Music Hall Fri, Feb 14 11:30pm $15 Shearwater (Rock) The Bell House Sat, Mar 22 7:30pm $15

Viktor Venom, Rob Morrison, Peter Klarnet Photo Credit: R. Stacy Fenner

JEANNE JOLLY Co u n t r y/A m e r i c a n a / Fo l k TMI HOT PICKS

Together Pangea (Rock) Local 506 Mon, Feb 10 9pm $10 Two Cow Garage (Rock n Roll) The Pour House Music Hall Wed, Feb 26 8pm $10 S. Carey (Folk) Kings Sat, Apr 12 9pm $12

Jeanne Jolly Photo Credit: Via Facebook

After bouncing around Los Angeles and Boston,

that features operatic flourishes and asks the

Raleigh born and bred Jeanne Jolly returned home

age old question, “why can I not get over you?”

to be reborn. Though classically trained at the New

Jolly’s voice soars. It’s warm and golden and true.

England Conservatory, she had not taken up either

Brimming with wisdom, wit, and life, Jolly’s honest

guitar nor songwriting as a career until returning

to goodness lyrics and songwriting skill will win you

home to Raleigh in 2009. Jolly released a self-titled

over, no matter which musical genre you prefer.

EP in 2008, following up with sophomore EP Falling

At home in the studio and on stage, Jolly’s earthy,

in Carolina in 2010. Her most recent and first full-

down home melodies glimmer brightly solo or

length release, Angels, has roped Miss Jolly some

accompanied by her very talented musical family,

serious praise from the likes of The Boston Globe

namely Chris Boerner (guitar, producer) and Nick

and New York Music Daily. Always composed and

Baglio (drums, keys). She has become a staple at the

joyful, Jolly radiates joy and strength, the kind that

North Carolina State Fair and has appeared at the

you can only draw from vintage country music and

Hopscotch Music Festival and recently completed

fresh air.

at month long tour across the USA. “Now that I’ve

“Angels on Hayworth St.” has an old country twang

surrendered to this crooked road, I know just where

to it that, when paired with Jolly’s clear, lilting

I want to go. I want to go with you.” With you we

voice, has a crisp, autumnal air. “Good Man” plays

go, Miss Jolly.

like a great Emmy Lou Harris ballad, alternating between powerful yet controlled vocals to hushed verses. “Tear Soup” is a dramatic and fun affair

RALEIGH

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M N ATT

AKOA

aised on classical music and crisp mountain air, Matt Nakoa now resides in Brooklyn after graduating from Boston’s Berklee College of Music. The past year has been full of surprises for the young musician; he released his debut album Light in the Dark, produced his first large scale music video and even performed at The White House. His funny and poignant “Beggar By The Weekend” music video captures the dissatisfaction of a life without passion. Nimbly side stepping nay-sayers, Nakoa brings a certain joyful fire to performing and songwriting. Completely at ease in his own skin, Nakoa’s onstage persona appears exactly as he is: ready to take on the world, a crowd, and his next batch of emails with playfulness and skill.

Matt Nakoa press photo

What was your creative process for ? Managing the daily chaos. Ideally I like to turn off my phone for two hours a day, like from 10am to noon and just sit and wait for the ideas to come. It’’s difficult to say this without sounding too hippie dippie - we live in a form based world, so everything has a form and that makes it meaningful. It’s like a ghost isn’t really a thing, so an idea doesn’t really exist until someone gives it form. So, songwriting is kind of like giving bodies to ghosts—it’s putting ideas into a form. You have an idea but you have to make it real. Sometimes the music comes first, but

it’s kind of difficult for me to find the exact amount of syllables and words to fit to a certain tune. It’s a little easier when I come across or think of lyrics and then kind of fiddle with the intonation and come up with a melody. It kind of builds around that. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, they both [lyrics and melody] come at the same time. I like writing with people and I try to do it often. I think it’s a really great creative and social interaction—I love it.

Let’s talk about technology... How do you feel about it? I’m definitely a pen and paper guy when it comes to music. If i can approach a tweet, say, as an extension of creative play, then that’s when it’s fun. If it’s not fun, then what’s the point. If I’m just running around working to get people to pay attention to me just so that I can have more ‘likes’ on Facebook, then that doesn’t really honor my life, you know? If I’m just hoping that someone is going to “favorite” a tweet, then that ruins it. If I can look at it as an extension of creative play, then that’s a way better way to handle it. Sometimes when you’re a musician, it seems like half your time is spent answering emails and I’ve realized that I handle it best in small doses, but especially if I can see it as an extension of creative play, then it works a little better.

Matt Nakoa at the International Folk Alliance Conference photo by Neale Eckstein

I like writing with people and I try to do it often. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a really great creative and social interactionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I love it.

What was your first experience with music? What drew you towards a career in music? The holidays, when I was a kid. I think that’s when I became most enchanted with music. There’s this whole kind of atmosphere around the holidays and everyone’s talking about big things, like peace and love. There are music boxes playing and people who never sing are out caroling—like what’s up with that?

I thought he was a pain. I didn’t really like the way he wrote and he didn’t like the way I wrote. But, it turns out that he was right and he really taught me how to write a good song. You know, up until that point I wasn’t writing good songs and I don’t really play any of that old stuff anymore. When we stopped playing and writing together it was like, “well, this sucks. I have to write on my own now? I’m not really sure how to do that.”

You grew up in upstate New York, went to school in Boston, and now reside in Brooklyn. Which do you prefer—city or country? Which do you find more inspiring?

You attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston. How did you make the decision to pursue music in college?

I wasn’t really into school. High school just wasn’t for me. It’s not like I was dumb Tough question... I think it or anything, but it really just might be country, but it kind wasn’t for me. I didn’t do of depends on the seasons. great. So, I had this plan like During the winter the country I was going to leave town or is cold and there’s not much to whatever, but my parents do, but there’s a center where I were like, “you have to go to play every time I go home and college.” I got a newsletter or they’re just the best crowda brochure or something in the they just get so into it and it’s mail for Berklee and there was great. At the same time, in the a guy with long hair playing city there are tons of tiny cafes Matt Nakoa, photo by Laura Carbone a guitar on it—and I was like, and friends close by, and that’s well if I have to go to school, really inspiring. The city gets stuffy in the summer then I want it to be there. It was the only place I and sometimes I get kind of claustrophobic and just applied. If I hadn’t gotten in, then I wouldn’t have want to go swim in a lake. So, yeah. I think it might gone to college. be the country. The city is noisy and never stops, but

Most influential person in your career? That’s really difficult—there are so many pieces and experiences, if you remove one then the entire thing changes. One of my friends at Berklee well, actually

is so full of inspiring people. Then again...I think that change is what inspires me most. Some of that comes with the changing of the seasons and some of it with just a change of scenery.

Most influential artist? Led Zeppelin.

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Where do you hope to see yourself in three years? I’d really like to be able to support myself comfortably making original music. Right now I’m playing a lot of gigs where they want covers. It’s kind of strange that people will pay more for a knockoff of a Journey song than a piece of original music, but that’s what pays right now. More records, more shows, definitely. I’d really like to find my band, you know - my musical family. We’d all be totally into it and they’re my jam.

Most rewarding part of your job? It’s really rewarding to see someone when you’re looking out at the crowd at a gig and you can just see that they feel supported by what you’re doing. You see a new light. I feel like that’s a part of a responsibility. I know what makes me light up, but I feel like a lot of people don’t know what makes them light up and come alive. I think that it’s important that people spend time working on finding what makes them light up. I think that world would be a pretty radically different place if everyone did that.

Most frustrating part of your job? Myself.

Matt Nakoa at Bay State Green, Westborough MA photo by Steve Aronson 2010

Cover tunes—we are currently swooning over the Brit Pack’s cover of “Roxanne.” Any current or future collaborations? Well the Brit Pack is my main collaboration, and it’s really just for fun. These guys from Britain needed to extend their work visa or something, so we made a band and named it something to showcase Britain and just started playing gigs and making music and having fun. I’m really trying to push for us to make original music together (under a different name), but at the moment that’s my main collaboration. I also compose classical music for people to play, which is sort of a different kind of collaboration. It’s a different kind of mindset writing music specifically for someone.

Talk to me about your music videos. They seem to flirt with old school film techniques. What do you want to convey with your videos? I particularly loved “Beggar by the Weekend.” It was incredible - just an amazing experience. I’ll talk about the song first - it was a pain to write. It just took a lot of tinkering and rearranging verses... It did not come easily. I met this really talented videographer and we picked the song for the video more so because the idea that we had for it was viable and it was the best video idea that we had that we could actually do. It wasn’t the song from the album that I wanted to be a single or anything. It’s not my favorite song, but it was what worked for the idea we had. The actual filming - we had an insane weekend shooting where nobody slept for three days, then over the next couple of months we grabbed a couple of other shots. It was great, it was truly a collaborative thing - we had all our friends and all these people who volunteered to be extras and they were just totally into it and just present. They let us use their office buildings and apartments to shoot in over the weekend and it was just an amazing thing.

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I think I started writing it because I was complaining about a ticket on my car or something, and it kind of continued from there. Then, when I stopped complaining I started seeing that a lot of other people were frustrated with their jobs and just kind of busting their asses until the weekend and then really wondering where it got them.

Best audience as of late? I went down to Miami a few months ago because someone needed a guitarist. It was just a week of rehearsing and playing shows, but by the end of it I was opening with my own music. And the people that were there were silent. You could hear a pin drop. I played a song that I hadn’t played before. And everyone was so into it and so present. Nobody was on their phone and everyone was there together.

Pre-show rituals? I read that a soccer player Pelé used to do this: he would lay on a bench in the locker room for 30 minutes before a game and for the first 15 minutes he would remember what it was like being a boy and discovering soccer. He would just get in touch with that total youthful joy around the sport. Then for the next 15 minute he would picture the game he was about to play and he would picture every move flawlessly and he would visualize it. I do that whenever I possibly can - I try to remember why I do this and I try to get into that feeling that I’m doing this because I love it and then I go out and picture myself playing the songs like perfectly and it’s wonderful. Then I go out. But, I definitely do some yoga or something to

stretch out, just to calm myself down and stretch out and feel good.

If you could sit next to anyone on an airplane, who would it be? John Lennon.

Aisle or window seat? I’d ask him where he wanted to sit.

Currently performing weekly at Brandy’s Piano Bar, Nakoa’s making his way through the New York music jungle, proving that nice guys can, indeed, finish first. Check out Matt’s new album at www.mattnakoa.com/music.

Matt Nakoa press photo

aside/bside

Beardyman

Perotá Chingó “La Complicidad”

“Oh! (feat. Foreign Beggars)”

Foster the People “Pumped Up Kicks”

The Microphones

David Byrne & St. Vincent

“I Felt Your Shape ”

“Dinner for Two”

Nico Vega “Beast”

Mikaela Davis

“I’m Just Trying to Be Your Friend”

Harry Nilsson “Thursday (Here’s Why I Did Not Go to Work Today)”

Lorde

“The Love Club”

Serena Ryder “What I Wouldn’t Do”

Grouplove “Sit Still”

Stooshe

“Hoochi Mumma”

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The A-Side

Ryn’s Mix

“My Mother Always Said I’d Waste My Life”

Azealia Banks “Fuck Up the Fun”

The B-Side Whitley

Taylor M.’s Mix

“Big Nasty Pants Down Jam Down”

Grouplove

“What I Know”

Foals

“Bad Habits”

“Cheap Clothes”

Kings of Leon “Family Tree”

Leagues

Trampled by Turtles

“Walking Backwards”

“Victory”

Grizzly Bear “Yet Again”

Sigur Ros “Brennisteinn”

The Apache Relay

Umphrey’s McGee

“Can’t Wake Up”

“Conduit”

Portugal. The Man “Purple Yellow Red and Blue”

Youth Lagoon “Daydream”

Local Natives “Bowery”

Across

the

Glob

international spotlig

ght series

Albert Olton

Sometimes things can get a little heavy. Sometimes you only hear bad news. Sometimes you just feel bad, plain and simple. Albert Olton and Revalayshun are here, all the way from Barbados, with a remedy. They may not be able to cure all the world’s problems, but as long as they keep playing, they may not have to. Instead of wallowing, Olton and his crew seek to inspire with love and light without shying away from reality. Olton plays alongside co-songwriter Daniel Medford (vocals, keys), Timothy Ashby (guitar, vocals), Pierre Dominique (bass), Pedro Williams (drums), and Akeem Olton (keys). “Evil Forces” will soothe your soul after a long hard day, while “Shine the Light” will energize you. Olton has released six albums since 1999; the latest, Human Rights, dropped in 2011 and title track “Human Rights” strikes a more whimsical note than Olton’s the band’s other more serious tracks. Pairing serious lyrics with light and cheery melodies can be tricky business, but Olton tackles it with ease, and it’s particularly obvious on “Human Rights.”

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(Barbados, Lesser Antilles) Albert Olton facebook photo

Olton first came onto the music scene in 1994 after entering a talent competition and being snatched up by a local band. It was not until 2003 that he really developed his Rastafarian style and social message. As frontman for Revalayshun, Olton is well versed in the tourist music scene, but his original music comes from a much more personal space. Inspired by current events, Olton creates a musical archive enveloping the good, the bad, and the in-between. Never giving in to melancholy or helplessness, Olton imparts chill vibes and socially conscious messages in a soothing cadence, matched with equally mellow guitar melody.

“Inspired by current events, Olton creates a musical archive enveloping the good, the bad, and the in-between.”

Masters of cool and killer guitar solos, the boys of Seoul based Rock’n’Roll Radio will do a number on everything you thought about rock’n’roll. As their name implies, these guys are all about rock and roll-they live and breathe it. Everything they do is infused with a sentiment of rock’n’roll cool - whether it’s vintage, classic, or modern, they’ve seemingly ensconced the entire genre and produced something so pure that it’s difficult to describe. After all, rock’n’roll is a genre as well as a feeling, and Rock’n’Roll Radio nails it every time. Nearly flawless guitar melodies drive the songs with old-school rock god vocals, accompanied by a fair amount of of jumping around the stage, of course. Ultimate crowd pleaser “Shut Up and Dance” will take you back to the first time that you heard real rock music - it’s an experience that can rarely be replicated, but Rock’n’Roll Radio manages it with their enthusiasm and flawless composition. The entire band emits a kind of collective cool that

only adds to their charm. “One Week” features harmonies that touch on Coldplay, but with a more 80s vibe. They released their first album Shut Up and Dance last October and have been making rounds at live music and rock festivals since then, notably playing at the World Rock Festival and Korean Live Music Festival. Don’t let the cardigans and cute sunglasses fool you, Rock’n’Roll Radio only looks cute—when they play, they dispel all “cuteness” and manfully replace it with rock’n’roll mastery.

“...when they play, they dispel all "cuteness" and manfully replace it with rock 'n' roll mastery.”

Rock 'N' Roll Radio (Seoul, Korea)

Rock 'N' Roll Radio - facebook photo

Raúl Cazabet (Buenos Aires, Argentina) Raúl Cazabet performing at Bossanova en Argentina 2012 facebook photo

Raul Cazabet’s soothing voice blends perfectly with his guitar melodies, creating a comforting and exotic aural experience. “Valizas De Amor” soars gently, winding sweetly through Cazabet’s verses and choruses with ease. “Hilo de Agua” resonates with golden charm while “Luz Amarilla” sings like a sweet autumn lullaby. “Recuerdo y Estrella” ebbs and flows strongly, reflecting Cazabet’s strong vocal control and emotional range. You need not speak Spanish to comprehend the depth and message of his ballads. His easy going demeanor belies deep, poetic tendencies that make for greatly soulful music. Cazabet bypasses all “exotic singer/songwriter” stereotypes and instead treads a more authentic, heartwarming ground. His ballads are light instead

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of melancholy, bright and beautiful. The overall effect is all together more powerful and mood altering than gut wrenching and morose ballads often found in the singer/songwriter genre. Cazabet performed a full set for TÚNEL 57, a Buenos Aires live music program, in addition to performing “Valizas de Amor” for BalconyTV. “Tronco el Camino,” “Rodar,” “Luz Amarilla,” and “Kothbiro” all round out an already impressive set that surpasses many of his contemporaries in terms of composition and soul.

“Cazabet bypasses all "exotic singer/ songwriter" stereotypes and instead treads a more authentic, heartwarming ground.”

Alice Way

(Kaunas, Lithuania)

Alice Way is firecracker. With a head full of red hair and a voice that’s soothing at times and desperate at others, Way creates her own brand of indie-folk that is making a splash across her hometown of Kaunas, Lithuania. She sings in English and is accompanied by guitar and sometimes a piano. According to her website, she “just love(s) to create. Whatever it is: songs, lyrics, poetry, novels… Just create something that wasn’t there before and is better than an empty space.” Well, I for one would say that the songs off the EP Wanderlust are definitely than most the teeny-boppers topping the charts these days. There’s precious little information on Alice Way out there right now—one interview on a blog reveals that she’s considered herself an artist her whole life and seeks to create in any way possible. Alice Way facebook photo photo by Justinas Rimeikis

The Wanderlust EP features four songs and is available for purchase on iTunes, though you can hear two of the songs on Spotify. The songs, as the EP title suggests, deal with themes of a transient youth, love, and an urge to travel and experience as many things as possible. She’s currently studying jazz at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU). Hopefully she continues to produce great music through her career as a student, and perhaps a full length album, when she completes her studies.

“...Way creates her own brand of indie-folk that is making a splash across her hometown...”

The Nymphs press photo

The Nymphs The 21st century has brought us many great things (the Internet, civil rights), but no one can deny that the 1940s, 50s and early 60s conveyed a certain style and class that is almost obsolete today. It is not surprising that we often express affection for these eras, and for that certain brand of nostalgia, we offer the Melbourne-based quartet The Nymphs. These lovely ladies are a mainly vocals group, often acapella, who implement swing, jazz, and mid-century pop elements to create a bright and brilliant sound. Sisters Jane and Clare Hendry met their bandmates Bek Chapman and Kelly Day over eight years ago while singing in a university choir. Since then, they’ve been busy rehearsing, writing, performing live shows on television programs, releasing their debut EP (in 2010) and working on their first fulllength album. The quarter has a sound akin to the Andrews Sisters and, sweet as their vocals are, their lyrics could sass the pants off you before you can order a double whiskey. As their official description

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(Melbourne, Australia)

states, The Nymphs are like “the Andrews Sisters drinking single malt with Mae West at the Old Bar.” Not content to limit their creative inspiration to artists from the mid-twentieth century, these sirens also take influence from contemporary singersongwriters like Joanna Newsome and Emilíana Torrini. Add in matching dresses and impeccable vintage style, and you’ve found the most breathtaking vocal group to be found not only in Australia, but in the world.

“These lovely ladies are a mainly vocals group, often acapella, who implement swing, jazz, and mid-century pop elements...”

Mezre

(Istanbul, Turkey)

Aras Savas (keys, guitar, vocals), Alpay Vural (accordion, keys), Deniz Demirbas (guitar), Kadir Kurt (bass), and Emre Durgun (drums) came together to form Mezre in 2006, joined together by their admiration for nature and penchant for making music. Named after one of their favorite places in the Kackar Mountains, Mezre finds their inspiration in the loveliness of nature. Though they reside in the bustling city of Istanbul, they often seek refuge in the refreshing mountain air that they worship in their songs. They devote their craft to that which inspires them: nature. Wrapping their exotic tunes with everything from the crisp mountain air to the warmth of the summer sun, Mezre takes note of their precious surroundings. According to them, whenever they tire of Istanbul’s bustling streets

and winding, lantern lit alleyways, they set off for the mountains, where they feed their creative impulses. “Kalk,” translating to “Up,” twinkles softly, a whispering and dark ballad that sings like a moonlit night in the mountains: simultaneously relaxing and haunting. The slightly jazzy, bar-friendly “Masal” breezes through with a more psychedelic sound, really paying homage to their “psychedelic alt rock” self description. The entire set winds through exotic melodies with psychedelic vocal harmonies and ornate instrumentals, all set against a solid alt rock bass guitar. With any luck, Mezre will graduate from Turkish bars and stages to a more international scene, especially given their environmentally minded messages and passions.

“…Mezre takes note of their precious surroundings.”

Mezre - facebook photo

Mika Vember It’s been over twenty years since the rise of the confessional female singer/songwriter. Back in the early ‘90s, it was all about Ani DiFranco, Tori Amos, and PJ Harvey, with a score of other talented ladies singing their hearts out. Even in this notoriously fickle industry, the audience never fails to be thrilled by a gifted singer/ songwriter. Presently, I’m enthralled with Vienna’s own Mika Vember. Vember, née Michaela Koglbaurer, is one of the most talented artists in Vienna’s rock scene today. Her first foray into music took place while she

(Vienna, Austria)

was still in school, singing and playing guitar for a local band. By 2007, she had developed her stage name (inspired by German media scholar Bernward Wember) and own unique sound, influenced by musicians such as Chrissie Hynde, Tom Waits and Ani DiFranco. With a deep and distinctive voice, Vember creates instantly intriguing music. Catchy melodies and flawless production only add to her music’s charm. Songs like “Easy as Pie” are fun and infectious, while other songs like “Summer Nights” have a reluctantly grown-up sound, full of regret and lost love but tinged with the memory of happiness. Even though English is her second language, Vember has fast become a lyrical master in it. Vember’s multiinstrumental talent helps her exert control over her sound, and really, it becomes magical. Responsible for vocals, guitar, loops and percussion, her backing consists of Martina Winkler (accordion, xylophone), Alexander Nefzger (“all sorts of keys and knobs”), Börn (bass and acoustic guitar), Günther Pauls (bass) and Alex Kerbl (drums). Every one of these elements helps to create a polished, yet emotionally raw sound. Plus the fact that there is a member who solely plays accordion and xylophone? Pure brilliance. Though Mika Vember’s last album, Our Lady of the Loops, was released in 2010, I find it inconceivable to believe that we’ve heard the last of her. If you live in Vienna, you can catch Mika Vember and her band playing around town, and as early as October 2013, she performed a dazzling new song on BalconyTV. Hopefully a new album is in the works as well! It’s impossible to let a talent like that go to waste.

“Vember's multi-instrumental talent helps her exert control over her sound, and really, it becomes magical.” Mika Vember, photo by - Ute Zötsch

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”Everything from classic rock to sitar music to folk ballads stimulated Buttery's creativity.”

Guy Buttery

(Johannesburg, South Africa)

It’s not very often that one man, armed with a single guitar, can properly entrance an entire crowd without uttering a single word. Raised amongst musical talents in both his family and Zulu tribesmen, Guy Buttery left his hometown on the North Coast of South Africa to embrace the many other instrumental influences the world had to offer a bright musical mind. Everything from classic rock to sitar music to folk ballads stimulated Buttery’s creativity, and he quickly took up learning the mandolin and sitar, in addition to guitar. He released his first album When I Grow Up in 2002 and his sophomore album Songs from the Cane Fields won the South African Music Award (SAMA) for “Best Instrumental Album” in 2005. He has traveled far and wide on the festival circuit, as well, playing across the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia.

Much like the minds of groundbreaking scientists, Buttery’s brain seems to have come up with an endless variety of manipulations for his guitar and playfully combines them in an incredibly poetic and elaborate manner. In addition to acoustic guitars, Buttery also works magic with the mbira (a wooden instrument with metal keys native to Zimbabwe), saw, ebow and loops. A true storyteller, Buttery does not show a need for lyrics, instead he pours all thought and energy into his guitar, letting his melodies speak for themselves. Buttery released his fifth record Live in KwaZulu, now available on iTunes and Bandcamp, in June 2013 and toured South America last fall. You can catch one of his jaw dropping performances for BalconyTV Johannesburg or peruse any of his albums for inspiring and relaxing songs.

White Wolf Wandering (Brighton, UK) The banjo has made a comeback in a big way, and I’m thrilled about it. It seems like alt-folk is the new cool music of the day, and that means I get to hear a lot of twanging banjo. Some people say that the banjo is an awful instrument—I say those people haven’t heard the banjo played well enough, and direct them to the UK’s own White Wolf Wandering, the best new alt-folk group out of southwest England. In the style of Mumford & Sons and Fleet Foxes, this up-andcoming new group boasts acoustic guitars, banjos, tambourines and a bass drum to their lineup, all for one enjoyable musical experience. Their enthusiastic, yet somehow delicate and sad sound, sounds like a woodland adventure, complete with dappled sunlight and dark twists and turns. Songs like “Pull Her Soul Away” and “Daydreams of the Insomniac” feel like a fairy tale, and yes,

White Wolf Wandering facebook photo

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one of the darker ones. Along with their talented musicianship, White Wolf Wandering has a unique sound, and is not just one of the countless Mumford & Sons knockoffs. I have a feeling that this is one indie band that will quickly have people buzzing, and convincing all naysayers about how great the banjo really is.

“Their enthusiastic, yet somehow delicate and sad sound, sounds like a woodland adventure, complete with dappled sunlight and dark twists and turns.”

Hanna Meyerholz

Hanna Meyerholz (Hamburg, Germany) Germany has long fostered amazing composers and music makers. From Bach to Strauss, Germans have weaved a rich tapestry of musical talent. When it comes to popular music, however, most of the international community can barely name any bands that hail from Deutchland (with a few exceptions like Kraftwerk and Rammstein). For those of you who are more singer-songwriter inclined than electronica or heavy metal, I present to you Hanna Meyerholz. This talented young woman is quickly turning heads in her home country and, soon, around the world. She creates largely acoustic pieces that showcase her guitar skills, and her delicate vocals deliver beautifully emotional lyrics. Having just released her first album last November, she has managed to accumulate a large amount of media buzz solely through her live

performances and demos, including an incredible Damien Rice cover, posted on Soundcloud. An impressive songwriter as well as a performer, you can feel her embody each and every one of her songs. You don’t have to worry about not speaking German—she sings in flawless English. I wouldn’t be surprised if Meyerholz is someday added to the pantheon of German composers.

“I wouldn't be surprised if Meyerholz is someday added to the pantheon of German composers.”

Bisz (Poznan, Poland)

Jaroslaw Jaruszewski aka Bisz facebook photo

World, prepare your ears. Polish rapper Bisz has quietly been building his arsenal of fierce beats and rapid-fire verses to unleash a veritable firestorm on your unsuspecting ear drums. Jaroslaw Jaruszewski started rapping in 1999 as an extension of his poetry. By slowly becoming affiliated with other hip hop artists and gaining a following over the years, Bisz eventually gained a following by playing clubs and recording in his home studio in his hometown of Bydgoszcz. Bisz (whose name translates into “into you”) released his first recording in 2007 in the form of Zimy (Winters), a collaboration with fellow rappers EP and Cosa. He continued to gain popularity and subsequently released his first “mainstream” album in 2012, Wilk Chodnikowy. The album has sold about 15,000 copies to date Bisz was awarded Artist of the Year in Bydgoszcz.

that’s why many Poles respond so positively to his music—he’s bringing a voice to a post-war generation that struggles with globalization and a loss of national identity. In Bisz, they find a reason to pump their fist and proudly claim their Polish heritage.

Wilk Chodnikowy is a hard-hitting album of 14 tracks that features Bisz as his best and angriest. With songs like “Pollack,” “Jestem Bestia,” “Banicja,” Bisz’s rapping deals with nationalistic themes, street life in Bydgoszcz, and the general feelings of a disaffected youth struggling to find his place in the world. Perhaps

“...he's bringing a voice to a postwar generation that struggles with globalization and a loss of national identity.”

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Bisz produces almost all of his own tracks, preferring a beat selection that nods to traditional Polish music with string arrangements and bells layered over snares, cymbals, and scratching records. It lends itself well to his style of rapping, which is rapid and clear. The hooks are clean and complement the beat well. Check it out for yourself, though. Wilk Chodnikowy (Pavement Wolf) is available on Spotify or for purchase on iTunes. You can also find a host of live performances on YouTube. Rock on, Poland!

Classifying themselves as “reggae soul vibe” and “rustic indie rock,” Brisbane’s Fire and Whistle Theory remain somewhat enigmatic, despite a string of recent successes. Often compared with The Black Keys, Johnny Cash, and Queens of the Stone Age, the five-piece rock band magically meshes indie rock (with a solid twang, of course) and country western in a darkly smooth way. Let’s postulate that if Fire and Whistle Theory were a liquor, they’d be whiskey. Frontman Tom Greenwood’s seductively husky voice is slightly reminiscent of very early Tom Waits, with a softer edge. Backed by Keith Vogel and Jordan Locke on guitars, Damian Blacka on bass, and Mitch Clark on drums, Greenwood’s ballads gracefully wind their way into Vogel’s classic rock tinged solos. Combined with effortless accompaniment on rhythm and bass guitars, and drums, songs like “Mr. Potential,” “Golden Guns,” and “Take Me Alive” rise to a new level for rock-indie, rustic, or any other kind. The band plans on rereleasing their previously recorded EP somewhere in between playing endless gigs, notably

with fellow Brisbane indie rock outfit Ball of String. They also made an appearance at last year’s Red Deer Music and Arts Festival, wowing crowds with their expert solos and gritty lyrics. Masters of their craft, kings of jam sessions, Fire and Whistle Theory’s music rings of a rock ’n’ roll that we haven’t heard for a long while. Their tracks speak of controlled composition and exquisite execution unparalleled by their peers. No matter where they came from, these are cowboy rock princes in the making, may we stand and witness their next acts of greatness and, hopefully, a re-release of their Golden Guns EP.

“Masters of their craft, kings of jam sessions, Fire and Whistle Theory's music rings of a rock 'n' roll that we haven't heard for a long while.”

Fire and Whistle Theory (Brisbane, Queensland)

Fire and Whistle Theory

Noiserv (Lisboa, Portugal)

David Santos aka Noiserv photo by Vera Marmelo

Citing music boxes and childhood wanderings as inspiration, one man show Noiserv (David Santos) will soon be a name on your radar. In the likes of William Fitzsimmons and Radical Face, Noiserv takes all that is whimsical and bright and turns it into a deeply nuanced musical journey. Starting in 2005, Noiserv released an EP that same year and followed up with One Hundred Miles from Thoughtlessness (2008), 3pistas-Vol. III (2009), and A day in the day of the days (2010). Noiserv’s enigmatic song titles embody an almost Shel Silverstein-like quality that, when combined with his softly resonating voice and tinkering instrumentals, solidifies his trademark style. His cover of The Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind” turns the classic punk rock piece into a sweet, sweet lullaby. “It’s easy to be a marathoner even if you are a carpenter,” off of Almost Visible Orchestra, Noiserv’s most recent release, meanders through a twinkling wonderland,

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enveloping the listener in a truly wonderful world. If you liked the soundtrack to Amelié, then you will thoroughly enjoy Noiserv’s tracks that glimmer with whimsy and childlike awe. BLITZ magazine awarded Almost Visible Orchestra second place in their best albums of the year rankings and his video for “Mr. Carousel” earned him international renown in it’s own right. Noiserv’s original compositions and indie folk soul have forged a new brand of quirky and lovely music that will charms and inspires in equal measure.

“...Noiserv takes all that is whimsical and bright and turns it into a deeply nuanced musical journey.”

There's a time and place for all things. If the mood strikes you for a quiet and melodic Puerto Rican guitarist, I suggest Harry Rag, neé Kristian Prieto Vachier. Born in 1986, Rag has already proved himself to be one of North America's finest guitarists. The San Juan native has released eight solo efforts, in addition to playing with group Alegría Rampante (also highly recommended). With the release of his latest EP Sweet Dreams, Muna Lee, Rag proves his complete mastery of acoustic guitar, with 12 tracks of beautiful and inventive melodies drawing from classical guitar, jazz, vaudeville, and contemporary indie and pop music. The songs are best described as minimalist, though there are more forces at work than one can detect at a first glance. At a casual listen, they seem simple and sweet. A few listens later you can hear the intricate complexities of melody and rhythm at work. Rag's music has been described as having a cinematic quality and I would not be surprised if,

in a few years, I find myself watching an art film and hear Rag's trademark tunes in the score, especially "Oh, What a Dandy Moral Compass" and "Intangible Sprinkles Waltz in the Garden." Though Rag's music is largely orchestral, his song titles are so inventive that they do more than any lyrics could, though his songs with lyrics are fantastic as well. So if you’re in the mood for some amazing guitar-driven, unclassifiable music, you must listen to Harry Rag. You don’t even have an excuse not to, because most of his music is available for online streaming. If not, just wait till next time. I’m sure Harry Rag will be around for a long while.

“Though Rag's music is largely orchestral, his song titles are so inventive that they do more than any lyrics could...”

Harry Rag

(San Juan, Puerto Rico)

Harry Rag

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Ondrej Galuska website photo

Ondrej Galuska (Prague, Czech Republic) Odrej Galuska has been a fixture on the Czech music scene for the past 20 years with his band Eggnoise, but recently went solo to release O.G. and the Odd Gifts, which has received worldwide critical acclaim. Galuska is a talented multi-instrumentalist proficient at guitar and trombone. His recent solo debut, however, focuses on his talents as a guitarist. His folk-rock rhythm and unique strumming patterns complement his clear voice very well, and his songs (which he sings in English) are some of the most descriptive I’ve heard in quite a while. He deals with themes of loneliness, fear of the unknown, and hope. Though he’s based out of Prague, he’s garnered fame around the world thanks to his recent appearances on BalconyTV and other artist showcases. His solo album received four nominations at the Independent Music Awards TAIS, and he recently recorded the soundtrack for Academy Award Nominee director Jan Hrebejk’s new film Svata Ctverice. Galuska’s music sounds a bit like Jack Johnson without the island rhythm. Maybe the best way to describe him would be to say that he’s a

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guitarist with a poet’s eye. In the song “Fears” featured on his BalconyTV appearance, he sings “Fears will never let you go/ And the tear in your mother’s eye/ And goblins from the neighbor’s door/ And the blood on the windscreen”. These lyrics, coupled with the upbeat rhythm of the guitar, evoke powerful mental images that leave the listener captivated, wanting more. You can find Galuska’s music on his website, or check out his YouTube performances. Do it quick – I’d be shocked if we weren’t hearing much more from this up and comer on a global scale within the coming months. His work is changing what we thought we knew about Eastern European folk music and putting a new spin on an old genre.

“He deals with themes of loneliness, fear of the unknown, and hope.”

Raskatoff Blues Smotritel Mayaka, Maria Vechtomova, Evgeny Petrov and Igor Moiseev came together in 2010 to form Raskatoff Blues and, while it took a little while to find their creative grounding, trying out several different styles, they soon settled into some wellfit jazz/blues shoes. Vechtomova’s voice glides like velvet above the group’s smooth melodies, bouncing nimbly amongst the string accompaniment. The Raskatoff Blues quartet has earned themselves a loyal following, particularly around the city’s restaurant and bar circuit. As accomplished at composing original pieces as they are covering classics, such as “The Girl from Ipanema,” the four piece group has a knack for giving thoughtful pieces a fun and carefree air. Even their more thoughtful numbers like “Summertime” have a breezy, swingy quality that adds a decidedly refreshing air to them.

Raskatoff Blues official website photo photo by VKontakt Photo

(Kostroma, Russia)

Last year saw them performing a jazzy and carefree rendition of original song “Romance” for BalconyTV and headlining at a multitude of gigs around Kostroma. “Mon Ami” is a spirited track that will keep you on your toes, incorporating a little more folk into their typical jazz/blues feel. They are currently working on their next album while playing around Kostroma, even making appearances at the town’s City Day.

“Vechtomova's voice glides like velvet above the group's smooth melodies, bouncing nimbly amongst the string accompaniment..”

L For Vendetta (Delhi, India)

L for Vendetta facebook photo

From beginnings as an acoustic collaboration in school, L For Vendetta has morphed into an indie ambient outfit capable of both deep emotion and an abiding sense of whimsy. Founding members Rudraksh Banerjie (vocals) and Moses Koul (strings) are longtime friends who began collaborating musically with one another. Before long, they sought out Gavin George (bass), Abhilasha Sinha (vocals), and Param Adiseshiah (beats) to round out their crew. Playing off and with one another with ease, and everyone seems to be on the same page. Koul’s melodies set the tone for each track, as different as each track is from the next. Banerjie and Sinha’s voices dance well with one another, and their harmonies will bring you to your knees. Their harmony filled cover of Muse’s “Madness” will give you chills. Smooth vocals and melodies filled with beats and guitars make “Vivid Velvet Vibe” a cool and peaceful experience.

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“Magic Makes You Talk Loud” melds indie pop guitar melodies with lilting, ever so slightly jazzy vocals. Since their first official gig in early 2012, L For Vendetta has attracted substantial media buzz— both SoundTree Profiles and Millennium Post have interviewed members L For Vendetta. They played at the Capriccio and Metanoia festivals, and are in the midst of recording their first official single. A surprising mix of The Civil Wars and The Mowgli’s, L For Vendetta’s focus on positivity and love fueled collaboration sets the stage for a new breed of musical projects that will take your breath away.

“A surprising mix of The Civil Wars and The Mowgli's, L For Vendetta's focus on positivity and love fueled collaboration sets the stage for a new breed of musical projects...”

It’s not very surprising that most famous people had not-so-glamorous jobs before they became famous. After all, one can’t simply roll out of bed and be a superstar (Kim Kardashian and kin excepted). However, it’s always interesting when the glamorous and unglamorous overlap, and a young artist’s life begins to take direction. Meet Rowan J. Edwards, a musician and sawmill worker from the beautiful Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia. Edwards is 22 years old, and became interested in music just about ten years ago, the primary reason being, “the music teacher was hot.” Luckily for him, and for all of us, music turned out to be a real talent! Over the past few years, Edwards has been writing and building a musical portfolio, and us as listeners are just beginning to scratch the surface. Though he has no proper album as of yet, Edwards has a

score of videos posted online, including a fantastic BalconyTV performance of the song “One Day I’ll Be King” (which, incidentally, won BalconyTV's "Global Music Rumble"). Edwards has a gift for phrasing desires and simplifying the complexities of youth, all over indie-folk tunes. Though, for the moment, Edwards is still at the sawmill, an album is in the works, and in twenty years, magazines much more renowned than Found will be asking Rowan J. Edwards about first jobs.

“Edwards has a gift for phrasing desires and simplifying the complexities of youth, all over indie-folk tunes.”

Rowan J. Edwards (Sunshine Coast, Queensland)

Rowan J. Edwards facebook photo

The Dublin-based folk-jazz (“jolk”) group Mongoose consists of four lovely ladies with extremely (lovely) Irish names: Molly O’Mahony (vocals, guitar), Ailbhe Dunne (guitar, double bass, vocals), Muireann Ní Cheannabháin (vocals, cello) and Cara Dunne (percussion, vocals). These four Irish nymphs joined forces in 2012 to form the best jolk group you’ve had yet to hear. Mongoose creates acoustic-based masterpieces, sometimes soft and poignant, other times high-energy and, shall I say, sassy? These girls have personality, the kind that adds a savory flavor to all of their songs and performances. Mongoose currently has one EP, titled Songs from an UmbrellaBooth, and while it’s lovely and inspiring, their live performances are unparalleled even by the recording studio. If you check out their performance of the song “Bottom Line” on BalconyTV, you’ll fall for them just as quickly as I have. Besides, who can resist an Irish accent? Their performance will kick you in the seat of

your pants, particularly Molly O’Mahony’s lead vocals and infectious energy. On the album, however, you can take the time to focus on their lyrics; Mongoose doesn’t just write catchy tunes, they write insightful lyrics that capture the human condition. My favorite song (other than “Bottom Line”) is “Knocked Singing,” a number that singularly depicts the ennui and paradox of youth: “I should be living life like there’s no next week; it’s just a phase now. Any day now I’ll take a risk and break free.” Mark my words, this is a Mongoose that you won’t be soon to forget!

“...Mongoose doesn't just write catchy tunes, they write insightful lyrics that capture the human condition.”

Mongoose

from L to R: Molly O'Mahony, Cara Dunne, Muireann Ní Cheannabháin, Ailbhe Dunne

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(Dublin, Ireland)

Matt Dewar of Direwolf - facebook photo

Direwolf Yes, I know what you’re getting excited about, direwolf. That’s the thing from that series about fancy chairs, right? But I’ve got a whole different reason for you to be excited, and that is the musician Direwolf. Fresh from Sydney, Direwolf is the moniker of 23 year old Matt Dewar, the latest addition to Australia’s brilliant-yet-undiscovered throng of indie folk singer/ songwriters. After spending his teenage years burning through band after band, Dewar found his way to the Australian Institute of Music. Just a few short years later, his work has paid off and he has a brand new EP under his belt, to be released in early 2014. With deep and symbolic lyrics and deft fingers on his guitar, he’s quickly generating buzz around local music scenes. His debut single “Goodbye” has already seen radio success and it’s easy to see why—Dewar’s voice is haunting and lonely, calling after lost love, while acoustic guitar, violin, piano and the lingering crash of cymbals complement both his voice and sentiment perfectly. Though Dewar was not without his doubts:

(Sydney, Australia) “Writing the first single was like trying to finish a ten piece puzzle while someone keeps removing the last piece you put down. A lot of the time I refrain from disclosing what [‘Goodbye’] is about… but the choice grew on me, and it eventually felt like the right one.” Too many musicians focus on the single, and don’t treat every song with the same amount of dedication, though I do not believe that Direwolf will fall prey to such tendencies. I believe that both he and his music will be something to look forward to for years to come.

“With deep and symbolic lyrics and deft fingers on his guitar, he's quickly generating buzz around local music scenes.”

In the Acropolis' shadow, fevered with Brit-pop nostalgia, Thanasis, George, and Fotis formed The 7 Frogs in November 2009, soon roping friends Alex and Andrew in to complete their indie pop quintet. By 2011, the band was making rounds at Athens hotspots and released their first EP on Handmade records with choice singles "Mai Tai" and "90s." They released a three track 7" vinyl single in March 2012 via Pebble Records and in keeping with their low brow, homegrown feel, their releases come with a trademark handmade packaging. For The 7 Frogs, "homegrown" and "handmade" are well-suited descriptions for their tunes. Throwing "exotic" stereotypes to the wind, the trio crafts soulful indie rock that resonates eerily with both Americana and Brit-pop notes. The vibe that The 7 Frogs inspires has notes of something old, something new, and something you've needed to hear your entire life. It's simple, light, and summery pop... with soul. Like the Brit-pop of old, The 7 Frogs have managed to find that musical and lyrical sweet spot where bouncy chords

and guitar jams meet sweet melancholy. Performing in both Greek and English, The 7 Frogs compose music both upbeat and emotionally relevant. "A Second" and "Rechaud" are both clever anthems that display the band's versatility with classic pop structures, straying away from musical and romantic clichés. After performing twice for EsC, a Greek televised series, The 7 Frogs also performed their hit "Saturtime" for BalconyTV in fall of 2013. They also played at European Music Day Festival in June 2013 in Athens' city center. With their trademark schoolboy looks and joyful jam structure, The 7 Frogs are set to gather a group of loyal fans both across the globe.

“Throwing "exotic" stereotypes to the wind, the trio crafts soulful indie rock that resonates eerily with both Americana and Brit-pop notes.”

The 7 Frogs (Athens, Greece)

The 7 Frogs

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A Band Called Wanda (Cork, Ireland) Formed in 2009, Galway based Darren, Brendan, Del, and Maidhc formed their A Band Called Wanda, quickly becoming a “sleeper hit” at festivals in the UK. The group released Roses Are Still Red EP in 2010 with the aid of fellow Irishman Ultan Conlon. “Where Has the Day Gone” maintains an upbeat melancholy that will stick with you right up until quitting time. “Western Lights” and “Still Haven’t Learned” take on a sweeter, softer tone more akin to green Irish hills, while “I See People” strikes a jazzier beat. Catchy track “Two by Two” will have your feet tapping in no time, and the album’s title track charms listeners quickly with fun, quirky lyrics. Fed up with comparisons to Mumford & Sons, the band took the stage as Ireland’s only contestants in last year’s Emerging Talent Competition in Glastonbury, making it to the final round of eight bands. They also placed as semi-finalists at the Spirit of Folk Awards

A Band Called Wanda

and played at Galway’s Oyster Festival last summer. Last June the band released their self-titled full length album, featuring the achingly lovely ballad “Unknown Song” and rousing folk inspired “Old Gold.” A Band Called Wanda has the chops and charm to quickly separate them from the rest of the folk’n’roll pack, and the Irish quartet are well on their way to becoming festival darlings in the UK and abroad.

“A Band Called Wanda has the chops and charm to quickly separate them from the rest of the folk 'n' roll pack...”

Lusty vocals, rousing harmonies, and a good dose of Southern influence set Hunter and the Bear apart from their power folk contemporaries. Their ballads bring out an almost primal longing for simplicity and meaning, and their lyrics strike a deeply emotional chord. Though they make for a beautiful and rousing live performance, their acoustic sessions let the boys’ honest and harmonies stand on their own. Old schoolmates Jimmy Hunter (guitar, mandolin, vocals) and Will Irvine (vocals, rhythm guitar, kick drum) and Josh Abdelfatah, a guitarist who took up playing the bass specifically for this band, comprise folk band Hunter and the Bear. Late 2012 saw the trio relocating to London, where they have gained an ardent following at their live shows and underground sessions, including the City Sessions and Songs from the Shed. To date they have released two EPs: Cubs and, their latest, Dusty Road. “We are chasing what is real,” they sing in “Forest on the Hill,” a graceful and humbling ballad. The wistful “Fisherman’s Way,” performed only with guitars and

a harmonica, inspires a longing for simpler times, or at least, the cold and stormy seaside. “Wayward Son” and “Hold Your Horses” equally highlight the trio’s uncanny ability to harmonize vocally and instrumentally with extreme ease. Over the last year they have played at the Hard Rock Calling Festival and Troon Festival, and plan on being back in the recording studio early this year. 2013 was a busy year for Hunter and the Bear and, thus far, it looks like things will only continue to pick up in the years to come. With such solid chemistry and heartfelt talent, Hunter and the Bear promises to churn out more folk heart and soul in the upcoming year.

“Their ballads bring out an almost primal longing for simplicity and meaning, and their lyrics strike a deeply emotional chord.”

Hunter and the Bear (London, UK)

Hunter and the Bear facebook photo

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Wake Owl

(Edmonton, Canada)

Wake Owl facebook photo

Change is one of those essential, inevitable parts of life. Often, I have to take a mental breather to take in the facts of, “Wow, I’m here, I’m doing this and this is me now.” I’m sure singer/songwriter Colyn Cameron of Wake Owl has that feeling very often. Born and raised in southern California, Cameron now splits his time between Vancouver and Portland. In a similar vein, when he was younger, his style may have sounded like it was straight outta Compton, but now it solidly resides in the folky nature of the Pacific Northwest. As Cameron recalls, “In the beginning I was mostly into rhyme stuff/hip hop. I wrote rap, basically. Then about seven years ago I picked up a guitar, taught myself basic stuff and immediately began writing songs.” Before Wake Owl, Cameron trained in organic agriculture at Emerson College in England, and worked on different farms in the UK, Germany, Chile and Canada. With this natural and global experience, it’s no wonder that the music Wake Owl produces sounds so genuine and

universally appealing. Beautiful and soft, sad and intense, Wake Owl creates indie-folk music that speaks to the listener on a cerebral level, and then hits them right in the emotion. The group’s first EP, Wild Country, was just released in January of 2013, but they’ve already played SXSW, Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza with great reception from fans and critics alike. As you get older, there are more and more places and events and past versions of yourself that you have to separate your present-self from. I have a feeling that Colyn Cameron will have more than most people, and few that he would want to separate himself from.

“...Wake Owl creates indie-folk music that speaks to the listener on a cerebral level...”

Twang and pop-rock angled guitar riffs and lusty, rough vocals render Farmer John’s rock anthems an energetic cross between Americana and Irish rock. Sung in Russian, naturally. Forming in 2012, the group was inspired by the iconic Wild West, incorporating bits and pieces of rock’n’roll and Americana, piecing them together in a wildly inventive manner. The crew even have assigned code names a la Wild West: Vadim Tuvatin aka Farmer (vocals), Roman Kochetkov aka Sheriff (bass), Alexei Kokoshnikov aka Saddler (guitar, vocals), Andrew Marukh aka Mustang (drums), and Dmitry Dokoutchaev aka Bummer (guitar, vocals) and Daria Kashtanova aka Pirates (djembe) assemble into this wild bunch of musicians hellbent on making their mark. “St Patrick’s Day in Moscow” will inspire envy in any Irish troupe worth their salt. “John Farmer” is a goofy little rockabilly number, and “Orangerie”

shows the group’s penchant for classic rock stylings. Dressed in a mesh of pioneer, cowboy, and hippie garb, Farmer John and his flock encompass a large scope of classic Americana. Even though they sing in Russian, Farmer John’s sound rings true of Americana’s Wild West. No matter where they are, Farmer John grasps the essence of whatever sparks their interest, whether it be St. Patrick’s Day or the Wild West; their sense of endless fun and uncanny ability to imitate that which they love will serve them well in the future, even as they branch out into even more of their own sound.

“Dressed in a mesh of pioneer, cowboy, and hippie garb, Farmer John and his flock encompass a large scope of classic Americana.”

Farmer John official website photo photo by Oleg Elkis

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(Saratov, Russia)

The Bartenders

(Warsaw, Poland)

The Bartenders facebook photo

Two is a couple, three is a crowd.... And ten is a motley crew of musicians jamming out to really great ska-jazz. Throw in a solid dose of good old fashioned reggae, and you have some of the most carefree and jubilant music you can imagine. Truly more of a small orchestra than a band, The Bartenders have a manner both carousing and classy. With equal ease they inspire exuberance and relaxation. Their impressive brass section blends perfectly with the rhythmmakers, everyone perfectly on the same page in joyful harmony. Despite their number, no one gets lost in the mix-every member, every instrument has place and a time, so no on gets drowned out by another.

vocals over funky rhythm and brass melodies. Incorporating trance/ska beats with classic Jamaican funk rhythms, The Bartenders make music as cool and sweet as the ‘60s themselves.

Jazzy brass and vocals buoy “I Need You” along with a jaunty melody and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Off their first self-titled EP, released in 2009, their spirited “Late” and “Foton 4 am” brilliantly highlight their rhythm and brass sections, making you feel like you’re in a sort of whimsical 1960s film. Their fun, swingy single “The Polecat” features German DJ and producer Dr. Ring Ding with smooth, quick

“Incorporating trance/ska beats with classic Jamaican funk rhythms, The Bartenders make music as cool and sweet as the '60s themselves.”

Their sophomore EP Szumna Sessions has been particularly well-received, including favorable review in industry magazines Free Colours and Spliff. The Bartenders made appearances at the Reggae Dub Festival Multicultural Warsaw Street Party, Flounders Pop Festival, and Fafa Festival last year and are due to release an LP this coming year.

Seven piece power pop group Pink Studio is prepared to take the world by candy coated storm. Their tracks may come off as cute at first, but there’s more to them than dreamy harmonies and experimental instrumentals. With energetic guitar riffs and dainty pop choruses, Pink Studio has evolved into a force of their own. Established in 2004, Pink Studio is comprised of Niko Radas (drums), Ivan Glasnović (guitar), Bogdan Ana (keys, vocals), Karan Nikola (bass), Kardum Ivana (vocals), Pintarić Josip (guitar), and Ana Pavić (vocals)-all weaving numbers both intimate and club-worthy, the group possesses impressive organization and range. From a more stripped down version of “Oko Mene” for BalconyTV Zagreb to the studio version, Pink Studio has the ability to transform from dance floor darlings to indie pop charmers and everything in between. The band released their first EP Soundtrack za Lutku in 2009, featuring three tracks full of carefree beach melodies and cheery choruses. Their second release

Pink Album (2012) takes progressive pop to another level with it’s dance heavy beats and ethereal vocals. “The Last Thing” swings in with a more jazzy feel and upbeat, and features fan favorite Shot. “I Want to Tell You” is a bright, fun number (and claymation music video) that showcases the band’s light and whimsical nature. Last October they played at Vienna’s Waves Music Festival and will hopefully make a few more festival circuit tours in the upcoming year. Pink Studio may be cute, but they pack some major power when it comes to redefining the pop genre.

“Pink Studio has the ability to transform from dance floor darlings to indie pop charmers and everything in between.”

Pink Studio

(Zagreb, Croatia)

Pink Studio facebook photo

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Fish Memory facebook photo

Fish Memory

(Mallorca, Spain)

From the sunny, clear blue watered island of Mallorca comes the band Fish Memory! As the urban legend goes, fish can only remember things for a few seconds before forgetting, but in reality, most fish are more of a Marlin than Finding Nemo’s adorable Dory—fish can remember things for months, if not lifetimes. And that’s how long you should prepare to remember Fish Memory. Formed in late 2004 by Victor Gudiol (vocals, guitar), David Ferri (guitar), Vincente Martínez (bass), Pablo Mougan (drums) and Toni Ribas (keyboard, synth), these boys have quickly become very popular in their island home. In 2006 they recorded a six-song demo, which is unfortunately no longer available online, but they did release their second EP Slow Slap in 2008 on Spotify. The music is electrifying—it sounds a lot like a young Cure mixed with a young Strokes, but perhaps I’m saying that because Gudiol’s vocals sound just like a young Robert Smith. When it came

to their third EP Stellar Radio, released in 2012, Fish Memory’s sound had completely changed. In addition to having more advanced skills on their instruments, Stellar Radio is much more pop and electronically influenced, implementing a lot of synthesizer and tracks that make you want to get up and dance. I can only imagine that with their next EP or full-length album, we can expect another total reinvention from Fish Memory! It’s good to like a band that can keep you on your toes.

“The music is electrifying–it sounds a lot like a young Cure mixed with a young Strokes...”

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A bad habit that music writers have today is how we define an artist’s sound based on past artists and movements. We want to give our readers the best idea of how they sound, and we try to accomplish that by giving a frame of reference they are familiar with. So, for instance, I could say that the Berlinbased pop trio Ballet School sounds like the Cocteau Twins combined with a mix of synthpop and delicate shoegaze. But I think that they deserve more than that, because they are a talented and imaginative group of young musicians, who create, in their own words, “twenty-first-century pop.” Ballet School was created two years ago in the ex-pat DIY scene of Berlin; vocalist/guitarist Rosie Blair (from Ireland) met lead guitarist Michel Collet (Japanese-Brazilian) in the U-Bahn, and the two immediately hit it off. In 2012, they began to collaborate with drummer Louis

McGuire. The result is amazing. Rosie’s ethereal voice, combined with spunky and glittery melodies, are making this group one that will be making people talk very soon. One such fan is none other than Grimes, who raved about the group (particularly Rosie’s voice) on her Tumblr. Such praise is not to be overlooked. With Rosie’s unique voice, Michel’s talented guitarwork, and Louis’ innovative drumming, I don’t see how this band could possibly go unnoticed for long. And probably in a few years, music writers will be describing new artists as sounding like Ballet School.

“...Rosie's ethereal voice, combined with spunky and glittery melodies, are making this group one that will be making people talk very soon.”

Ballet School

from L to R: Michel Collet, Rosie Blair and Louis McGuire

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(Berlin, Germany)

Rie Fu (Tokyo, Japan)

Rie Fu facebook photo

Rie Fu made her musical debut in 2004, after composing 30 songs in 30 days and sending them to Sony Music Japan. After learning English from old Carpenters albums, Rie Fu used them as inspiration for her music as well as her language skills. She quickly developed an international career, playing in Cannes, and recording and performing in London. Most recently she has expanded her artistic repertoire to painting as well. She founded Rie Fu Inc two years ago as a platform for her multiple artistic endeavors. Rie Fu’s sweet, melodic voice pairs perfectly with her lilting acoustic guitar melodies. Her most recent album consists of only Carpenters covers; her graceful, innocent voice shines in “For All We Know” and “Yesterday Once More.” “Top of the World” lets her showoff her more dramatic and powerful vocals. When it comes to original music, Rie Fu has released seven full-length albums. “You Do,” which she performed for BalconyTV, is a purely charming acoustic ballad touching on love’s sweetness. “Untold” speaks to a more meditative and

melancholy nature, lifted with wistful harmonies and beautiful guitar melody that are nearly eclipsed by painfully lovely lyrics. Singing in both Japanese and English, Rie Fu’s skill for composing both music and lyrics speak to a talent far beyond her years. Alternating between delicate notes and more bold choruses, Rie Fu’s acoustic ballads inspire raw emotions akin to a Brandy Carlile. Rie Fu brings elegance to sorrow and sweetness, coaxing resonating melodies from her stories. With her new album out and a full deck of gigs and gallery showings, there’s no rest for the talented, although I’m sure Rie Fu will continue to rise to the occasion splendidly.

“Rie Fu brings elegance to sorrow and sweetness, coaxing resonating melodies from her stories.”

Adi Ulmansky

(Tel Aviv, Israel)

Adi Ulmansky just released her first mixtape, Shit Just Got Real, a glorious nine track amalgamation of hip-hop, pop, and electronica last January and yet she has completed several tours and dropped her debut EP Hurricane Girl last August. This Israeli pixie with dreadlocks spins traditionalism on its head with a touch of her laptop and keys. Don’t be intimidated, Ulmansky will instantly charm you with her easy demeanor and bright smiles. With a voice reminiscent of Ellie Goulding and raplaced beats not unlike M.I.A., Ulmansky’s “Hurricane Girl” will have you walking tall (and with a certain pep in your step) and “Was It You” will wind you back down with it’s ambient verses and chill choruses. She bounces between amped up club numbers to soaring pop-dream beats with an ever so slight Middle Eastern twist. Throwing all genres and labels to the win, Ulmansky crafts witty and catchy tracks that are nothing but truly delightful artistry.

Adi Ulmansky

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A native of Jerusalem, Ulmansky now resides in Tel Aviv and London. She has performed across the USA, UK, at Prague’s United Islands Festival and at Israel’s Pride Festival for crowds of hundreds of thousands of people. Although she grew up playing in bands, she now composes and produces solo, though she says she may consider a part-time career in being a drummer. No rest for the talented, though, Ulmansky says she’s already working on her next EP to be released later this year.

"With a voice reminiscent of Ellie Goulding and rap-laced beats not unlike M.I.A., Ulmansky's "Hurricane Girl" will have you walking tall...”

Badda Boo & Happy Band google image search photo

Badda Boo & Happy(Crimea, Band Ukraine) Accompanied by Happy Band on acoustic guitar, Badda Boo sings what she describes as “psychadelic folk,” with accouterments like low-key electronics, percussion, and beatbox. Taking inspiration from small, intimate moments and natural elements, Badda Boo crafts a strange, wonderful brew of pop/folk numbers that feature creative percussion, almost bird-like singing, and acoustic melodies. Singing in both Russian and English, Badda Boo’s light, piercing voice wavers beautifully above acoustic guitar accompaniment in an almost tribal manner. “Sincerity” tinkers slowly and sweetly, alternating light vocals with melodic chanting, resulting in an almost tribal, but entirely enjoyable, experience. “Angel” and “Black Dress” take on more melancholy themes that vacillate between delicate and powerful. Badda Boo and Happy Band dazzled BalconyTV viewers with “My Captain,” a pop-folk number that combines oriental, tribal, and pop elements to create

a story in a song, an entire musical experience. “Home” feels more grounded, incorporating a more guitar heavy melody that gives a little more weight to Badda Boo’s flighty, nimble vocals. Currently Badda Boo and Happy Band are playing for crowds in Crimea and Russia, in addition to recording on their own. Taking bits and pieces from pop and folk, and melding them into tiny , light stories and experiential journeys, Badda Boo and Happy Band will change your conceptions about traditional music.

“...Badda Boo sings what she describes as "psychadelic folk," with accoutrements like low-key electronics, percussion, and beatbox.”

Moustache Prawn Official Photo

Moustache Prawn (Messina, Italy) If you’re a regular Found: Music Uncovered reader, you will not be surprised to hear that the Italian town of Messica is absolutely teeming with undiscovered brilliance. In our last issue we talked about the incomparable C+C=Maxigross, and this time around the spotlight turns to Moustache Prawn, our indie rock friends who in no way resemble hairy crustaceans. Moustache Prawn is an indie rock group comprised of three young men by the names of Giancarlo Latarta (drums), Leo Ostuni (guitar, vocals) and Ronny Gigante (bass). They have a fun and authentic sound and, though they are often compared to rock bands like The Strokes and Cage the Elephant, they possess a sound and style all their own. On their debut album Biscuits, you can sample everything from the sweet and peppy sounds of “Aeroplane” to the hard rocking “Never Think So Long,” and they will cement the band in your memory for years to come. Both of these songs come with the best music videos I’ve seen in ages and you’ll be treating yourself to watch them. Biscuits has already racked up a number of glowing

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reviews and Moustache Prawn have started make themselves known playing live performances as well. They played the Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg and garnered impressive views and votes on BalconyTV Messina. Perhaps it’s the Mediterranean air, but there’s something quite special about these southern Italian groups. I wouldn’t be surprised if, in a few years, the most popular rock bands in the world are from Italy.

“I wouldn't be surprised if, in a few years, the most popular rock bands in the world are from Italy.”

Yooko facebook photo

Yooko

(Bogotá, Colombia)

Yooko es una banda de rock alternitivo de Bogotá. That’s about the extent of my Spanish skills, but I couldn’t resist trying it out after listening to Yooko! For our non-Spanish speaking readers, Yooko is an alternative rock band from Bogotá, Columbia. They’re a pretty new band, comprised of five members, three of whom are brothers. Their sound is funky-fresh, and so much fun to listen to. They take lively Latin American music and fuse it with alternative rock, citing inspiration from bands such as U2 and the Killers. And even though I can’t speak Spanish, their band description assures me that their lyrics involve striving for social justice. Yooko writes and expresses feelings of love, peace, respect, and discourages prejudice. They love their country, and place emphasis on respecting women, even donating part of their income to campaigns dedicated to preventing violence against women. In fact, social campaigns

“An acoustic guitar is not a requirement for good and effective social justice music—it can be accomplished just as well with an electric guitar and a trumpet.” have even started using Yooko’s music as a part of their movement—that’s something pretty special in itself, right in the tradition of Bob Dylan, Joan Baez and John Lennon. Keep in mind that they’re writing social-minded songs while never compromising the musicality of the pieces. It’s still music that you can rock out to and enjoy immensely at a live show. An acoustic guitar is not a requirement for good and effective social justice music—it can be accomplished just as well with an electric guitar and a trumpet.

Oracle - facebook photo

Oracle

(Tralee, Ireland)

Those of you who are acquainted with the brilliance of Black Books already know the wonder of Irish music. But for those of you who don’t, it was everyone’s favorite drunken misanthrope, Bernard Black, who once slurred, “Have I ever told you about the old country? Oh, the songs, oh, they’d melt your face.” Well, perhaps Tralee’s Oracle won’t exactly melt your face, but they are carrying on the grand tradition of beautiful Irish folk music. Located in County Kerry, Tralee is a little slice of scenic majesty, as well as home to a small yet vibrant music scene. Oracle came about in a chance meeting between Noel McAuliffe and Leonard Casey with Shane Murphy. McAuliffe and Casey were both performers with Siamsa Tire, the national folk theatre of Ireland, while Murphy was a well-known performer around Kerry. With the addition of Martin Hurley, Oracle was complete. While classified as a folk band, Oracle takes influence from a variety of genres including AngloAmerican rock, Irish traditional and country music, all adding up into one delightful sound sandwich. Largely guitar and fiddle oriented, Oracle is rather a mellow band all-in-all. They’re the kind of band I’d like to listen to at the pub—sipping a beer, talking with my

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“...Oracle takes influence from a variety of genres...all adding up into one delicious sound sandwich.” friends, and just enjoying the music. Their first album, Life Changes, is a relaxed and fantastic collection of songs, though if you really listen to the lyrics, you’ll find yourself really thinking about the lyrics instead of just mindlessly nodding your head as if in agreement (and if you’re like me, thinking about how much they sound like Richard Shindell). As of the writing of this article, Oracle fans are waiting with bated breath for the band’s second release, titled Our Take Two. The finishing touches are being added, and it should be any day now. Tralee may not be an international hub, but different environments breed different music. I doubt we could have created Oracle even in Dublin, let alone cities such as New York or London. I think we can all be thankful for small Irish towns about this time.

Chameleons in their own right, Russian rock group Altavista manages to emulate and incorporate a wide variety of genres without losing themselves in the mix. At their inception in 2006, the group originally played more Britpop and blues tunes, but they have added classic rock and punk tunes to their already impressive repertoire. They released their first album in 2008, called Do Not Touch, and followed with Cosmetics in 2010. The band has a raucous nature that, if not apparent by their punk inspired album art, becomes very apparent at their somewhat riotous live shows. They may be a rowdy bunch, but they’re nothing if not talented and enthusiastic. Their evolution has brought them a larger fan base, especially after they branched out to St. Petersburg.

with moody verses and howling choruses, all with relentless guitar solos in between. Their acoustic version of “A&B” for BalconyTV shed light on the group’s more sensitive and light side. Regardless of which genre they emulate, Altavista pulls it off flawlessly. Pledging allegiance to their energy and mood as opposed to a genre, Altavista stays true to their own sound, consistently producing intelligent and impressive tracks.

Off their 2010 album, “Dogs” is a classic rock anthem with a slight tinge of blues that is full of irreverent energy and arching guitar riffs. “Light,” meanwhile, incorporates more punk influences,

“Pledging allegiance to their energy and mood as opposed to a genre, Altavista stays true to their own sound...”

Their fourth album Lamp Genie was released last year, though they are now working on recording yet another album. Watching Altavista transform from a wide-eyed Britpop boy band into a talented and nuanced multi-genre group has been extremely rewarding– who knows what they’ll do next?

Altavista

Altavista press photo

(St. Petersburg, Russia)

Garbed in the bright fashions for which Brazil has now earned international renown, Sergio Pererê and his band will spin you around and put a smile on your face in one track flat. With melodies that fully adhere to the phrase “joyful noise” without ever seeming too happy go lucky, Pererê’s composition effortlessly seams together strings, percussion and vocals to maximize the collaboration’s effect: pure joy. Pererê released his first album Star Line in 2005 and followed up with Labidumba in 2008 and Great Soul-Live in 2010. Melding everything from soul and rocks to traditional Brazilian influences, Pererê teamed up with Santonne Lobato and Giovanne Sassá Tambolelê in 1995 to form the band and afterwards they created a musical project to reach out to Belo Horizonte’s youth. With both a social and artistic mission at hand, Pererê and his crew recently released “Boca do Lixo da Tela,” which they also played for BalconyTV, a particularly rollicking number that will have crowds dancing in no time. Despite definitive modern influences, namely rock and blues, each song is

steeped in tradition, both near and far, old and new. Part of the band’s charm is that there’s something entirely familiar and yet so very exotic about them— it’s both exhilarating and comforting. Pererê’s enthusiasm and skill betray nothing except for passion for his community and his music. Combined with his charisma and infectious energy, Pererê and his band truly capture the Belo Horizonte’s zeitgeist in a wonderfully vibrant manner, bringing a refreshing miniature vacation with each song. Armed with a strong command of music and social consciousness, Pererê and his band are ones to watch in a world that is increasingly looking to artists to lead social change.

“...Pererê and his band truly capture the Belo Horizonte zeitgeist in a wonderfully vibrant manner, bringing a refreshing miniature vacation with each song.”

Sergio Perere E Grupo

(Belo Horizonte, Brazil)

Sérgio Pererê E Grupo 150

from L to R: Joan Chamorro, Josep Traver and Andrea Motis

(Barcelona, Catalonia)

Motis, Chamorro, and Traver Jazz singer and trumpetist Andrea Motis has a surprising amount of stage presence for one so young. The singer shines, however, alongside Joan Chamorro (saxophone) and Josep Traver (bass) commanding the instrumentals. Motis' timelessly classic voice soars effortlessly and lightly over Chamorro's nimble and delightful instrumentals. Motis' lilting Spanish voice tackles English lyrics effortlessly; her ever so slight accent adds even more charm to her already enchanting vocals.

the lead instead of trying to be big and showy, the result is entirely more enduring than more glitzy shows. Unassuming and unaltered, the group's adherence to well-crafted music and their own natural talent steal the show every time.

The group brings an ever-so slinky , yet still innocent feel to classics such as "Feeling Good”, "L.O.V.E." and "Smile" without ever feeling cliché or overdone. Instead, they hit the sweet spot between innovation and nostalgia. Their dreamy rendition of "Someday My Prince Will Come" will melt your heart and reinstate your faith in all that is good and sweet. "Desafinado" and "Body and Soul" round out the group's setlist, and their cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" is a showstopper any day of the week. The band's incredible chemistry lets their music take

Only 18 years old, Motis has been singing and playing the trumpet since she was a small child, joining the St. Andreu's Jazz Band in 2007. In 2010 she broke out on her own as a solo artist and immersed herself, with Chamorro's band, into Catalonia's jazz scene. The group has three albums to date and played "You're Not the Kind" for BalconyTV this past fall. Never overdone, always delightfully upbeat and light, Motis and Chamorro's quintet bring truly sweet and soulful jazz music back. They're redoing the classics in a stripped down, no bells and whistles manner. Pure, sweet joy.

“They're redoing the classics in a stripped down, no bells and whistles manner.”

The Danes have been voted the happiest people on Earth several times over, and now, with The Boy That Got Away, they may take the cake for the most rock ’n’ roll nation as well. Formed in 2009, Tim Alvin Boström (guitar, vocals), Matias Bager (bass), and Casper Simonsen (drums) craft a relentless mix of classic and grunge rock that will remind you slightly of old school Interpol and Chris Cornell, and that will make Denmark proud. The power rock trio released an EP in 2001 of modest length, but remarkable quality. The boys riff and jam through “The Politics,” “I’m Boarding Now,” and “The Boy That Got Away” with cool kid ease, all while sporting Converse sneakers and hipster glasses. The stripped down version of “Follow Your Dreams” that they performed for BalconyTV Aarhus last year gave Boström’s vocals a time to shine and showcase the band’s more relaxed side. These boys’ rock anthems stick with you— their powerful instrumentals and

haunting choruses embody both the 70s and 90s rock scenes, perfectly rebranding them for the new millennium. Last year they racked up a number of appearances at TakRock! and Quasar Rock festivals, and received Denmark’s Student Musical Award. They were also featured alongside Telestjernen and Bunker at Music Recommended last December and earning nods from the ever popular Sound of Aarhus. Full of ferocious energy, these Danes have rock ’n’ roll in their soul and talent at their fingertips. Currently at work on their first full-length album with accomplished producer Soren Andersen, we can expect only great things from The Boy That Got Away in the upcoming months.

“...craft a relentless mix of classic and grunge rock that will remind you slightly of old school Interpol and Chris Cornell.”

The Boy That Got Away (Aarhus, Denmark)

The Boy That Got Away - facebook photo

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Midriff Midriff

(Walchsee, Austria)

Austrian folk/rock trio Midriff brings back the soulful rock’n’roll of old with their haunting, rocking ballads. Despite their Austrian background, Paul Henzinger (vocals, drums), Joshua Lentner (guitar), and Jeremy Lentner (bass) craft tracks that are pure Americana and rock’n’roll. Henzinger’s voice resonates in a manner akin to Nick Cave, while the Lentner brothers masterfully riff their guitars, both acoustic and electric. The entire experience is reminiscent of old school Green Day with a solid dose of folk and Southern rock. Their tracks have a delicious bitterness that reminds you of autumns past. The trio formed back in April 2010 and released their debut EP Grassman’s Cottage later that year. The following year they toured Austria, Germany, Italy and the UK performing live and earning rave reviews everywhere they went, including Italy’s famous Rock am Ring Festival. They released

Midriff - Janus Photography

their sophomore EP Blackout and their debut full length album Broken Dreams in 2012 to critical praise. The three performed the sweet and graceful ballad “Digger” live and unplugged for BalconyTV last November—just three men, armed with acoustic guitars and the skill sets of true rockin’ bards.

Midriff - Janus Photography

Tracks from Grassman’s Cottage would not be out of place in a western remake a la True Grit, with ballads that range from “Pumping Iron” to other daily activities—but with a badass, rock ’n’ roll twist, of course. Album opener and title track for Broken Dreams brings back the hard rockers that the trio’s name inspires and it does not disappoint. The richly layered “Departed” off of Blackout perfectly exemplifies the band’s masterful arrangement, showcasing Henzinger’s vocals and the Lentner brothers’ instrumental mastery. All in all, Midriff is a strange brew that manages to do it right every time.

“The entire experience is reminiscent of old school Green Day with a solid dose of folk and Southern rock.”

Irene Ghiotto - facebook photo

Irene Ghiotto From the scenic province of Vicenza comes the lovely and talented Irene Ghiotto. Having loved music since she was a young child, Ghiotto is becoming one of Italy’s fastest rising pop stars. Though she comes from a musical family, she says that she herself pushed herself into music. Her parents’ passion for music was always a presence in their home; though at first she was drawn to the guitar, her interests quickly evolved into composing. At school, Ghiotto became besotted with jazz, and, today, you can hear the influence in her music. Her debut hit single, “Baciami?” (“Kiss Me?”) is in Ghiotto’s own self-described style of “electropop iridescence.” With hypnotic rhythms and whimsical keys, not to mention Ghiotto’s own masterfully controlled vocals, it’s an addictive song. Having just released her debut EP in 2013, Ghiotto says, “The songs are built from a root of piano and voice, which are implanted colors, bells, strings, synths. A large

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(Schio, Italy)

family of colorful sounds that cover the writing and the voice of kaleidoscopic lights and shadows. The themes are a treasure trove of emotional experiences, passions, desires unexpressed, imaginary adventures and painful separations.” In addition to Ghiotto’s talents, her songs take on a slightly dark undertone, something not usually seen in standard pop fare. But for a woman who rocks the socks off a piano cover of System of a Down’s “Toxicity,” you know she’s got that fire in her, and “Baciami?” is obviously the first hit of many for Irene Ghiotto.

“In addition to Ghiotto's talents, her songs take on a slightly dark undertone, something not usually seen in standard pop fare.”

“It’s so good to be alive,” Sir Watson sings in “Your Way,” a slow, thoughtful number that contrasts with the relentless energy of their other songs. Pedro Pires (vocals, guitar), Luis Teles (guitar, vocals), José Teles (bass), and Tiago Freitas (drums) formed Sir Watson in late 2011, by early 2012 they began playing regular gigs and in May 2012 they released their first EP Drink to Youth. Watsons, as they call their devoted fans, flock to Porto’s clubs and bars to support their city’s most accomplished hard rock group, making them one of the most in demand groups in town. The hard rock quartet’s range is clearly visible in their highly diverse setlists. “Kings of Today” is full of bold guitar riffs, giving the number a bit of a heavy metal feeling, while “Jump Outside Reality” channels classic and hard rock themes. “The Flood” features a stronger folk motif than the rest of

their repertoire. They pull off each song with equal dexterity. Sir Watson exudes charisma and energy at their live shows, and it’s easy to see how they’ve gained such a loyal following so quickly. Currently appearing at Hardclub, Doo Bop, and Heaven’s Club, Sir Watson will hopefully take some time off to churn out a full-length album in the near future.

“Sir Watson exudes charisma and energy at their live shows, and it's easy to see how they've gained such a loyal following so quickly.”

Sir Watson

(Porto, Portugal) Sir Watson facebook photo

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last call

e Ashevill

W h a t ma kes t he G rey E agle uniq u e ? Our extremely diverse calendar, family-friendly vibe, amazing Taqueria, affordable tickets, and our amazing patrons!

Describe the Grey Eagle in three words. Different every night.

W h o’s on yo ur sho r tlis t of yo ur favo r ite a cts to d a te?

Eagle's Halloween Extravaganzas from a few years ago. We also have an annual birthday celebration for Django Reinhardt each January-that's always a great night of some really hot gypsy jazz.

W h at’s on de ck i n 2014?

We'll be one of the host venues for MOOGFEST. We're looking forward to The Baker Family Band - photo by fsamuels via Flickr that becoming a yearly tradition. We’ve got an action packed winter with some truly amazing shows (Black Angels with Roky Erickson, Turquoise Jeep, Howe Gelb, Of Montreal, comedian Eugene Mirman, Jimmy Herring of Widespread Panic, Found Footage Festival, St. Paul and The Broken Bones, White Denim, Man Man, and Lake Street Drive, to name a few.

Shortlist? Impossible to keep this list short, but John Hartford, Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Neutral Milk Hotel, Vic Chesnutt, Big Daddy Kane, Tim O'Brien & Darrell Scott, Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, Magnolia Electric Company, Frank Black (Pixies), The Avett Brothers, Loudon Wainwright III, The Lumineers, R.L. Burnside, Band of Horses....

Any fun traditions? We have an annual "Halloween Extravaganza" with Unknown Hinson. His live album Live and Undead was actually recorded at one of The Grey

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, NC

Any local acts that have stolen your heart? I personally think Asheville has one of the best local music scenes on the east coast. We may be tucked away in the mountains, but we’re well represented with such great nationally touring acts who call Asheville home.

January event schedule - facebook photo

W h at i s you r favo r i te p a r t abou t work i n g a t t h e G rey Eagl e? The Album Leaf - photo by Rich Orris via Flickr

I take great pride in the diversity of the calendar I put together each month. It’s easy to burn out in this industry and I’ve found the only way to stay sharp is to mix it up as much as possible. I like the idea of the club appealing to different demographics on any given night, whether it be a rock show, comedy show, reggae show, burlesque dance troupe, hip hop show, community fundraiser or a benefit to raise awareness about worthwhile organizations around Asheville. The Grey Eagle is also home to a great local church, Highland Christian Church, each Sunday morning, so we really do run the gambit of how the space is used. The diversity of how the space is used is the single most rewarding aspect, to me, personally, as the owner and talent buyer for The Grey Eagle.

A s h or t l ove l et te r to t h e patron s ? We couldn’t do it night-in and night-out without your continued support! Thanks for a fantastic 2013, and we’re even more excited about what’s in store for 2014! The Grey Eagle - photo by Lydia See via Flickr

The Grey Eagle - photo by Lydia See via Flickr

www.thegreyeagle.com 185 Clingman Ave. / Asheville, NC / 828-232-5800

Lewis Law Group, LLC Group, LLC Creative Arts and Entertainment Law The Lewis Law Group, LLC was founded in 2012 in Charleston, South Carolina by William Bee Ravenel Lewis - a 16 year lawyer, professional musician and artist. Having a unique understanding of the personal and professional challenges faced by those in the industry, he formed Lewis Law Group to combine his knowledge of, and love for, the creative arts with his many years of legal experience in such other diverse fields as aviation, banking, and general courtroom practice.

www.lewislawgroupllc.com

Lewis Law Group, LLC Lewis Law Group, LLC combines a lifelong passion for entertainment and creative arts with many years experience representing clients in negotiations and, when needed, in the court room. The Lewis Law Group, LLC is well positioned to provide representation and counseling with integrity and passion with respect to a broad range of matters encompassing the creative arts, including: Band Partnership Agreements Agency Agreements Publishing Agreements Production Agreements Management Agreements Record Company Negotiations Film and Television Internet and Wireless Copyright and Trademark Digital Rights Management Royalty Reclamation Trade Secret Protection Visual Arts Business Formation and Advice General Litigation

William Bee Ravenel Lewis, Esq. Entertainment & Sports Industries Forum (Music and Personal Appearances Committee) - American Bar Association Section of Intellectual Property Law American Bar Association Music Initiative Advisory Board

Lewis Law Group, LLC, 1 Wesley Drive, Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 737 6252 (Licensed only in S.C. and legal services are provided in Charleston, S.C.)