Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's getting close and personal with another band set to rock the local stage soon - Mother Culture! Hailing from Kansas City, MO (a rockin' town known for its hip jazz scene), this indie band performed at SXSW Fest earlier this year which was also part of their tour starting at Fargo, ND. Now embarking on their Fall 2010 tour with a stop at Chicago's legendary Subterranean, they'll be sharing the stage with Empire State Express, Ryan Traster and SouthSide's good friends, The Love Shots on Thursday September 9. This reviewer also had the pleasure of listening to Mother's latest EP, "Sold Your Voice" and highly recommends snagging a copy. Through the magic of email, SouthSide asked Nick (percussion), Kyle (bass), Justin (guitar/vocals), and Jessie Lu (vocals) a few questions about their name, music and perhaps tiny tidbits we never knew about Mother Culture until now.
SouthSide: What inspired the band to be named "Mother Culture"?
Nick: The name was originally taken from a Daniel Quinn book called "Ishmael." A "Mother Culture" is an early civilization or people who have a widespread affect on later civilizations and cultures. For instance the Olmec or considered a Mother Culture to Mexico. The book discusses how mankind has existed in harmony with the planet of millions of years and how in the last 2,500 years we've stepped away from tribal society and into civilization. The name for me though, is about sharing ideas with the greater world in order to make it a better place. Being in a touring band is a very tribal way of life, and it just seemed fitting.
Justin: To me the Mother Culture is also a sort of parent influence throughout this planet. We've decided that commerce, materialism, and economy are the building blocks for a "civilized" state, and anyone who sees things from outside of that paradigm is seen as sort of an outsider. It seems like the Western, first world, ideology is considered to be the correct one throughout most of the world, and countries that are hanging onto their tribal way of life are expected to "grow up" and be like their "Mother" Culture, even though that culture is responsible for most of the world's problems. I guess for me, it made sense to name the band Mother Culture because it allows for questions like this one.
JessieLu: I think the fellas covered it completely.
Kyle: Ditto
Nick also added this: Its the whole "assimilate or die" concept that was applied to the American Indian or the Aborigines. This sort of pressure still exists and in places like Tibet and parts of southeast Asia and South America where slaves build our cell phones and tennis shoes. I think in a way we hope to draw attention to the fact that there are ways to exist outside of this grid, and that there are alternatives to aimlessly pursuing the latest and greatest toys and gadgets because CNBC market reps told us we need them.
SouthSide: How would you describe your music to new fans?
Nick: I like to tell people we're a mix of punk rock cabaret with a strong pop sensibility, but don't take my word for it, decide for yourself.
Justin: Theatrical rock with a bit of Tokyo club zest.
JessieLu: I think most people would consider us Indie rock because it's relatable. If I told people that I thought we were a bit of pop, rock, with punk flavored sprinkles accompanied by heavy opinions and maybe a bit of a hypnotic flow at times.. it would be a mouthful
Kyle: I usually tell people our EP is indie rock with pop, dance, and folk elements, but when trying to describe our new material, it usually ends up getting lost in some long diatribe about electronics and atmospheric noise that eventually ends up ends up back at "rock". I find that people always come up with vastly different ways of describing our sound though, and I like that.
SouthSide: What's the one song should fans listen first off your Sold Your Voice EP? and why?
Everyone suggested Paper Dolls (With Plastic Parts) as well their personal favorites to SouthSide.
Nick: My favorite song to play from the EP, as the drummer would definitely be "Paper Dolls (With Plastic Parts)." Its got a lot of fun transitions and cool grooves.
Kyle: I think "Paper Dolls" is the most fun to play live as a whole, and also has the most energy.
Justin: Hmm...the fun song? Sold Your Voice and Paper Dolls are definitely my favorite songs on the EP to play live.
JessieLu: Vocally my favorite would be Cancer for Commerce, it's my FU to the man and just really fun to sing. As a band my favorite would be Paper Dolls
Kyle: but I also really enjoy the climactic rise and fall of the musical break at the end of "Empire" live.
Nick:My favorite song as a listener though, would definitely be "There's an Empire in My Head." I love how the different vocal parts all converge at the end. Its so uplifting.
SouthSide: What's the fun song off the EP in which you feel that vibe from your while performing live?
Nick: I'd say "Sold Your Voice" since its the title track off the album. I also think it gives people the best understanding of what we sound like. I'd love it if they listened to the whole EP though :-)
Justin: I would say "Sold Your Voice" because it makes you wanna shake ya ass and your fist.
Kyle: I also hope people will listen to the whole album through, so I suggest starting with "Sold Your Voice" as well. Its only like 20 minutes long!
JessieLu: It's unanimous.
And yes,blogspot readers, SouthSide did ask the ever "dreaded influence" question only because she enjoys hearing the many different as well as possible answers this one particular question can accummulate. Here's how the member of Mother Culture responded:
Nick: Haha, oh the dreaded influence question. I think we could all go on for hours about what groups have influenced us and how. For each person the list is very different. For me, I've been listening to bands like Social Distortion since I was a kid. Bands like The Adolescents and the Dead Kennedy's had a huge impact on my musical tastes early on. I still listen to those bands, but I also enjoy groups like The Format, The Dear Hunter, Gogol Bordello, Local Natives, The Matches and Wye Oak. I'm a sucker for anything with big, overblown arrangements.
Justin: For me I guess it's just living in the world that we do. If I turn on the tv, open a magazine, or hear someone's conversation, I'm probably forming some kind of opinion on what I'm witnessing at that moment, and that opinion is going to be translated into an idea that makes it's way into a song. I've always loved bands that can throw an idea at you and make the hairs stand up on your arms; bands that can really rally the ideals that live in your heart and soul. That's always been something that I wanted to do.
JessieLu: As a band we pull from so many influences in our lives. Everything from personal experience, music, a glance, a memory, a conversation, even a dream. Musically I love The Flaming Lips, David Bowie, The Neutral Milk Hotel, Television, David Byrne.. Anyone with an imagination, really.
Kyle: As hokey as it sounds, Justin was actually my first real "influence" on the bass. He pretty much showed me the ropes and gave me a decent framework for becoming a better player back in high school. Since then, I'd say my playing style has mostly been influenced by Roger Manganelli (Less Than Jake), Rex Brown (Pantera), Cory Murchy (Minus the Bear), and Jared Warrren (Big Business/Melvins), all for vastly different reasons.
SouthSide: What's the one thing you hope the audience gains from your live shows?
Nick: I hope they have fun. If they're not having fun we haven't done our job, and they just wasted $7 or $8.
Justin: I would hope that they leave feeling inspired. I've always loved being inspired by a great performance and I can only hope that I can do the same.
JessieLu: Smiles and a brain full of ideas.
Kyle: I hope the listeners gain enjoyment out of it, whatever that may be to each individual person, since that's what music is all about.
SouthSide: What's the one thing your fans don't know about Mother Culture that you wish to reveal now?
Nick: ...I have no idea. Reality is relative?
Justin: Um...we have a time machine and are actually from the year 2547.
JessieLu: It is the distant future.. the year 2000. We are robots.The world is quite different ever since the robotic uprising of the late 90's. We no longer say yes, instead, we say affirmative....Unless we know the other robot really well.
Kyle: We sleep with our eyes open and breathe through gills in our feet! Not really, but I don't think there's anything too interesting I could tell you that people don't already know. Unfortunately we're fairly normal.
What funny responses to her last questions, blogspot readers. SouthSide cannot wait to meet them in person when she reviews Mother's SubT performance next Thursday. She highly suggests checking out this band during their Fall 2010 tour coming to a city/town near you. For more details and information, visit www.motherculturerock.com or www.myspace.com/motherculture.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, September 3, 2010
Friday, April 23, 2010
The Branded - 22 Apr 10
...if KISS and James Brown were to have kids, they would be The Branded...
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide got branded tonight! Okay, not literally with a hot cowpoke iron on the arse. She was lucky enough to interview the latest indie band ready to explode onto the music scene with a huge BAM! On May 1, The Branded will debut on the Elbo Room stage that's guaranteed to be a unique experience for all. From what SouthSide was told, do not expect this to be like any ordinary performance you've attended/seen either. Think HUGE, blogspot readers, with crazy fun and surprises. However before revealing more details, let's get to know The Branded better with Brian Bender and Mike Haracz.
The interview began by asking the guys why name the band "The Branded". According to Brian, the name itself is in reference to what's currently happening within the music scene today. It's no longer about the band or their music and/or the management representing the band. It's all about the brand attached to the band and the music these days. That's how they found the name - The Branded - poking fun at the commercialism stifling the scene. And they have Stephen Francis (of Model Stranger) to thank for bringing all of them together. After A Birdsong Valentine disbanded, Brian and Masta Shen still continued to perform amongst other band friends like 72 Hours and Heavy The Fall for fun. One day, Jay mentioned to Brian about anyone needing a drummer if his band ever broke up. Then Stephen mentioned to Brian about Mike looking for a band ...and the rest, as they say, is history. This band features four talented musicians - Brian Bender (formerly of A Birdsong Valentine as well as Elbo Room's talent buyer) on vocals, Mike Haracz (formerly of From The Broken) on guitars and vocals, Masta Shen (also formerly of A Birdsong Valentine, IMV) on bass and vocals, and Jay Mishur (formerly of Blown, Euphoric) on drums.
The Branded wants to perfectly clear that this will NOT be A Birdsong Valentine and/or From The Broken redux. This is totally a completely different band with a whole new sound especially for Brian who's known locally for his gut-busting screams. With The Branded, Brian will actually (drum roll) singing the lyrics not wowing the crowd with his screaming. He stated that it was more of a personal challenge for him to move beyond that phase of his music career. Plus he didn't want anyone comparing The Branded's music and/or sound with their former bands. The live shows will have a harsher tonality with Brian utilizing two mics - one for singing and a special green mic for that screaming effect. However, blogspot readers, do not expect any gut-busting screaming in their debut album, No Mercy. Yes, that's actually him rockin' the mic with his voice.
As SouthSide hinted earlier, this live show on May 1 at the Elbo Room will be HUGE with crazy fun and surprises. This will be an audio and visual show featuring two flat screen TVs on either side of the stage, lighting effects to dazzle the eyes, and commercial breaks. That's right, blogspot readers, SouthSide did say commercial breaks (pre-recorded by The Branded) which will contain thirty seconds up to one minute spots between songs. What "products" will The Branded show be sponsored by? Who knows - the guys were very secretive about that info and told this reviewer people will have to come to the show and find out. Besides all of this, there will be a guy tattooing The Branded logo on himself during the performance and two lucky fans will get the chance to shoot the show footage on fan cams. This footage will be used for The Branded's next show in which two more lucky fans will get to shoot that one and so on. Think a wilder version of "Girls Gone Wild" here, blogspot readers. They want fans to feel like they're not only experiencing a live show but a live television show - no TiVo or dead silence song breaks. You'll be watching The Branded Television channel from the beginning to the end of their performance. Brian says "...this will be a fan interactive show ...a completely different experience for [them]..." There's one thing The Branded wants everyone to know - they promise not to sacrifice any part of the production of any The Branded show if a venue cannot accommodate the size of this band's stage set up. Even if it means sacrificing a bigger show lineup too. These guys are totally 100% committed to you and your show entertainment.
In case you're wondering what inspires these musicians to write music/songs for The Branded, it's the following but not necessarily in this order - chicks, drinking, pizza and thongs. This reviewer highly suggest listening to Track 8 on the album titled Drug Pizza (her favorite song) in which she learned the short version of a long story behind this song. Mike was bothering Brian with a weird mess of guitar riffs and chords and then he (Brian) added a few insane things of his own - then BAM! The song was created however it wasn't suppose to be recorded as part of the album. This reviewer's glad it did. It's one of those songs that make you stop and say "...WTF?!?!? Those cuckcasians are insane in the membrane..." One interesting fact about this song - if you listen very closely to the beginning, that's The Branded recording the lyrics. Besides this song (as part of a trilogy to define this band), Mike suggests fans to also listen to First Move (they love the chicks in tight shirts and short skirts who make the first move) and Let Me In (a more melodic The Branded song out of the 8 tracks). Meanwhile Brian suggested his own trilogy featuring Mama Aint Go No Mercy For Ya, Dirt and Play The Game. Actually there were 15 songs written for this album yet not all were gems like the top 8 picked. They told SouthSide that at their recent CD Listening party many were taken by surprise which generated favorable responses. Thanks to recording with producer Matt Mercardo, each The Branded song is radio-ready as well as commercialized type of music. There's one song that didn't make this album but will be in their next one - Brian says they might perform it live on May 1.
In closing, what else can The Branded say about themselves? Mike says "...no matter how big they become, they're still an approachable, friendly band..." They're not cocky but confident about their music. And ladies, he's the only single member of the band who hangs below the waist *hint hint*. Brian mentioned The Branded has their own special drink concoction too called The Branded Bomb. It consists of 1/2 shot each of Jameson and Jagermeister with a can of PBR or Old Style. He says "...it's a teeth kicker..." - hm, that's one drink SouthSide won't be touching. Also there will be pregnancy tests for sale for those who might get branded later after the show. Plus there will be a cow brander with The Branded logo if you wanted to get branded - don't worry it's not a hot branding iron touching the skin. Seriously, blogspot readers, they want you to know that The Branded is 100% all about the entertainment just like the late great James Brown. They will be the hardest working indie rock band around town. Hence the quote posted at the top of this interview. And with that, the interview ended with a loud BAM!
SouthSide highly recommends attending The Branded's first performance ...she says prepared to be branded with her. This reviewer also needs to remind the kiddies that this is a dirty rated-R show on May 1 so you must be 21 or older to enter the Elbo Room (with valid ID). For more information, visit www.thebrandedmusic.com or www.myspace.com/thebrandedmusic. Yes, they're on Facebook too at www.facebook.com/thebrandedmusic.
SouthSide would like to thank Brian and Mike for taking time out of their busy schedules for this interview. She had a fun time getting branded with The Branded.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide got branded tonight! Okay, not literally with a hot cowpoke iron on the arse. She was lucky enough to interview the latest indie band ready to explode onto the music scene with a huge BAM! On May 1, The Branded will debut on the Elbo Room stage that's guaranteed to be a unique experience for all. From what SouthSide was told, do not expect this to be like any ordinary performance you've attended/seen either. Think HUGE, blogspot readers, with crazy fun and surprises. However before revealing more details, let's get to know The Branded better with Brian Bender and Mike Haracz.
The interview began by asking the guys why name the band "The Branded". According to Brian, the name itself is in reference to what's currently happening within the music scene today. It's no longer about the band or their music and/or the management representing the band. It's all about the brand attached to the band and the music these days. That's how they found the name - The Branded - poking fun at the commercialism stifling the scene. And they have Stephen Francis (of Model Stranger) to thank for bringing all of them together. After A Birdsong Valentine disbanded, Brian and Masta Shen still continued to perform amongst other band friends like 72 Hours and Heavy The Fall for fun. One day, Jay mentioned to Brian about anyone needing a drummer if his band ever broke up. Then Stephen mentioned to Brian about Mike looking for a band ...and the rest, as they say, is history. This band features four talented musicians - Brian Bender (formerly of A Birdsong Valentine as well as Elbo Room's talent buyer) on vocals, Mike Haracz (formerly of From The Broken) on guitars and vocals, Masta Shen (also formerly of A Birdsong Valentine, IMV) on bass and vocals, and Jay Mishur (formerly of Blown, Euphoric) on drums.
The Branded wants to perfectly clear that this will NOT be A Birdsong Valentine and/or From The Broken redux. This is totally a completely different band with a whole new sound especially for Brian who's known locally for his gut-busting screams. With The Branded, Brian will actually (drum roll) singing the lyrics not wowing the crowd with his screaming. He stated that it was more of a personal challenge for him to move beyond that phase of his music career. Plus he didn't want anyone comparing The Branded's music and/or sound with their former bands. The live shows will have a harsher tonality with Brian utilizing two mics - one for singing and a special green mic for that screaming effect. However, blogspot readers, do not expect any gut-busting screaming in their debut album, No Mercy. Yes, that's actually him rockin' the mic with his voice.
As SouthSide hinted earlier, this live show on May 1 at the Elbo Room will be HUGE with crazy fun and surprises. This will be an audio and visual show featuring two flat screen TVs on either side of the stage, lighting effects to dazzle the eyes, and commercial breaks. That's right, blogspot readers, SouthSide did say commercial breaks (pre-recorded by The Branded) which will contain thirty seconds up to one minute spots between songs. What "products" will The Branded show be sponsored by? Who knows - the guys were very secretive about that info and told this reviewer people will have to come to the show and find out. Besides all of this, there will be a guy tattooing The Branded logo on himself during the performance and two lucky fans will get the chance to shoot the show footage on fan cams. This footage will be used for The Branded's next show in which two more lucky fans will get to shoot that one and so on. Think a wilder version of "Girls Gone Wild" here, blogspot readers. They want fans to feel like they're not only experiencing a live show but a live television show - no TiVo or dead silence song breaks. You'll be watching The Branded Television channel from the beginning to the end of their performance. Brian says "...this will be a fan interactive show ...a completely different experience for [them]..." There's one thing The Branded wants everyone to know - they promise not to sacrifice any part of the production of any The Branded show if a venue cannot accommodate the size of this band's stage set up. Even if it means sacrificing a bigger show lineup too. These guys are totally 100% committed to you and your show entertainment.
In case you're wondering what inspires these musicians to write music/songs for The Branded, it's the following but not necessarily in this order - chicks, drinking, pizza and thongs. This reviewer highly suggest listening to Track 8 on the album titled Drug Pizza (her favorite song) in which she learned the short version of a long story behind this song. Mike was bothering Brian with a weird mess of guitar riffs and chords and then he (Brian) added a few insane things of his own - then BAM! The song was created however it wasn't suppose to be recorded as part of the album. This reviewer's glad it did. It's one of those songs that make you stop and say "...WTF?!?!? Those cuckcasians are insane in the membrane..." One interesting fact about this song - if you listen very closely to the beginning, that's The Branded recording the lyrics. Besides this song (as part of a trilogy to define this band), Mike suggests fans to also listen to First Move (they love the chicks in tight shirts and short skirts who make the first move) and Let Me In (a more melodic The Branded song out of the 8 tracks). Meanwhile Brian suggested his own trilogy featuring Mama Aint Go No Mercy For Ya, Dirt and Play The Game. Actually there were 15 songs written for this album yet not all were gems like the top 8 picked. They told SouthSide that at their recent CD Listening party many were taken by surprise which generated favorable responses. Thanks to recording with producer Matt Mercardo, each The Branded song is radio-ready as well as commercialized type of music. There's one song that didn't make this album but will be in their next one - Brian says they might perform it live on May 1.
In closing, what else can The Branded say about themselves? Mike says "...no matter how big they become, they're still an approachable, friendly band..." They're not cocky but confident about their music. And ladies, he's the only single member of the band who hangs below the waist *hint hint*. Brian mentioned The Branded has their own special drink concoction too called The Branded Bomb. It consists of 1/2 shot each of Jameson and Jagermeister with a can of PBR or Old Style. He says "...it's a teeth kicker..." - hm, that's one drink SouthSide won't be touching. Also there will be pregnancy tests for sale for those who might get branded later after the show. Plus there will be a cow brander with The Branded logo if you wanted to get branded - don't worry it's not a hot branding iron touching the skin. Seriously, blogspot readers, they want you to know that The Branded is 100% all about the entertainment just like the late great James Brown. They will be the hardest working indie rock band around town. Hence the quote posted at the top of this interview. And with that, the interview ended with a loud BAM!
SouthSide highly recommends attending The Branded's first performance ...she says prepared to be branded with her. This reviewer also needs to remind the kiddies that this is a dirty rated-R show on May 1 so you must be 21 or older to enter the Elbo Room (with valid ID). For more information, visit www.thebrandedmusic.com or www.myspace.com/thebrandedmusic. Yes, they're on Facebook too at www.facebook.com/thebrandedmusic.
SouthSide would like to thank Brian and Mike for taking time out of their busy schedules for this interview. She had a fun time getting branded with The Branded.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Cobalt and The Hired Guns - 17 Feb 10
...maybe that should the title of our next album - Idiots Smiling...
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's getting up close and personal for the latest scoop in this one on one interview. Today, she's learning all about the ins and outs of Cobalt and The Hired Guns. This local band is quite known around town for its rockin' twist on the Americana/alternative sound. And it's receiving buzz-worthy notice with two songs, You Left Your Sweater and Of Summer, being heard on local radio.
Ever since being one of the four finalists in last year's Metromix's Rock-n-Vote, Cobalt has been one busy band. They did a summer tour and founded Chicago Roots Collective with other distinguishing local bands such as Band Called Catch and How Far To Austin. After making their first appearance on the Metro stage, this band had a residency at Uncommon Ground sharing the stage with other CRC members. Cobalt ended their rockin' 2009 in a New Year's Eve show. Yet it doesn't stop there - 2010 is really shaping up to be another exciting year for this indie band.
While preparing hard for their second Metro appearance this Friday opening for State Radio, Tomlinson Fort (Cobalt's front man on vocals and guitar) was kind enough to spare a few mintues with SouthSide for this entertaining phone interview. This conversation gave her a deeper insight into the hipness of Cobalt and The Hired Guns. According to Tom, opening for State Radio is truly a huge opportunity for them. Not only will they do it in front of the Chicago home crowd but also a week later at the Cat's Cradle in North Carolina. Plus it will give them another chance being reunited with original producer, Brian Humphreys, as they start laying tracks down for an upcoming CD.
For the Metro show, they're putting together a bigger band set-up. Besides Cobalt's usual partners in crime (Jesse on drums, Tom on guitar, Mike on bass and Matt on guitar), there will be special guests on horns and accordion to liven up their already rockin' sound. This should really get their fans jumpin' and jivin' during the opening set. Yet that's what Cobalt wants to happen on Friday. They want to light up the venue (or any venue where they're performing) with their music absolutely giving the people what they paid for after coming to the show. According to Tom, "...fun, joy and love..." - the three basic tenet's which Cobalt follows as their reason to rock. And believe SouthSide, blogspot readers, when she says these guys have way too much fun enjoying what they love to do.
Here's an interesting scoop just for you, Tom's a big fan of hiphop but he enjoys other genres as well. He's excited about being in a band that's always developing. Their sound draws inspiration from all artists and music styles and genres like R&B/soul (for that horn rhythm). However, don't think Cobalt doesn't enjoy being known as an Americana band. That's definitely not the case at all. According to Tom, there needs to be a vision when song writing as well as being flexible too. You can't guide the song ...sometimes you have to let it guide you. For example, You Left Your Sweater started off as a mopey love song until Jesse (Cobalt's guy on drums) flipped it into a lively Rockabilly/punk song. With four songwriters in the band, you can expect that and more as they experiment with different rhythms and beats.
When asked the one song fans should listen to familiarize themselves to Cobalt's music, SouthSide's question had Tom stumped for a minute. Well, for a good reason since it's difficult picking just one out of so many good ones. He did suggest listening to their other hit, Of Summer (also written by Jesse) which is currently available on iTunes. What Tom also likes about the band is how everyone's part fits together. There's great chemistry between the Cobalt's members. It does show while they're jamming on stage in front of the fans ...smilling like idiots.
Just like State Radio's zeal to involve themselves with community activism, Cobalt and The Hired Guns are no strangers to social causes themselves. Last year, the band participated in the Kitty-palooza at the Empty Bottle, an event for kitten adoption. According to Tom, it's cool for them to be involved with events and causes like that. On Friday night, part of the proceeds will benefit Calling All Crows (founded by Chad Stokes of State Radio. It's an organization that brings together musicians and fans to raise human rights awareness. Currently Chad along with partner, Sybil Gallagher, are raising funds for the women in war-torn Darfur. For more information about this organization, visit www.callingallcrows.org.
In closing, Tom wants everyone to know that Cobalt and The Hired Guns about having fun on stage while helping others like you and SouthSide have fun too.
Once again, thanks to Tomlinson Fort for his time during this interview - it was a blast!
For more information about Cobalt and The Hired Guns, visit www.cobaltandthehiredguns.com or www.myspace.com/cobaltandthehiredguns.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's getting up close and personal for the latest scoop in this one on one interview. Today, she's learning all about the ins and outs of Cobalt and The Hired Guns. This local band is quite known around town for its rockin' twist on the Americana/alternative sound. And it's receiving buzz-worthy notice with two songs, You Left Your Sweater and Of Summer, being heard on local radio.
Ever since being one of the four finalists in last year's Metromix's Rock-n-Vote, Cobalt has been one busy band. They did a summer tour and founded Chicago Roots Collective with other distinguishing local bands such as Band Called Catch and How Far To Austin. After making their first appearance on the Metro stage, this band had a residency at Uncommon Ground sharing the stage with other CRC members. Cobalt ended their rockin' 2009 in a New Year's Eve show. Yet it doesn't stop there - 2010 is really shaping up to be another exciting year for this indie band.
While preparing hard for their second Metro appearance this Friday opening for State Radio, Tomlinson Fort (Cobalt's front man on vocals and guitar) was kind enough to spare a few mintues with SouthSide for this entertaining phone interview. This conversation gave her a deeper insight into the hipness of Cobalt and The Hired Guns. According to Tom, opening for State Radio is truly a huge opportunity for them. Not only will they do it in front of the Chicago home crowd but also a week later at the Cat's Cradle in North Carolina. Plus it will give them another chance being reunited with original producer, Brian Humphreys, as they start laying tracks down for an upcoming CD.
For the Metro show, they're putting together a bigger band set-up. Besides Cobalt's usual partners in crime (Jesse on drums, Tom on guitar, Mike on bass and Matt on guitar), there will be special guests on horns and accordion to liven up their already rockin' sound. This should really get their fans jumpin' and jivin' during the opening set. Yet that's what Cobalt wants to happen on Friday. They want to light up the venue (or any venue where they're performing) with their music absolutely giving the people what they paid for after coming to the show. According to Tom, "...fun, joy and love..." - the three basic tenet's which Cobalt follows as their reason to rock. And believe SouthSide, blogspot readers, when she says these guys have way too much fun enjoying what they love to do.
Here's an interesting scoop just for you, Tom's a big fan of hiphop but he enjoys other genres as well. He's excited about being in a band that's always developing. Their sound draws inspiration from all artists and music styles and genres like R&B/soul (for that horn rhythm). However, don't think Cobalt doesn't enjoy being known as an Americana band. That's definitely not the case at all. According to Tom, there needs to be a vision when song writing as well as being flexible too. You can't guide the song ...sometimes you have to let it guide you. For example, You Left Your Sweater started off as a mopey love song until Jesse (Cobalt's guy on drums) flipped it into a lively Rockabilly/punk song. With four songwriters in the band, you can expect that and more as they experiment with different rhythms and beats.
When asked the one song fans should listen to familiarize themselves to Cobalt's music, SouthSide's question had Tom stumped for a minute. Well, for a good reason since it's difficult picking just one out of so many good ones. He did suggest listening to their other hit, Of Summer (also written by Jesse) which is currently available on iTunes. What Tom also likes about the band is how everyone's part fits together. There's great chemistry between the Cobalt's members. It does show while they're jamming on stage in front of the fans ...smilling like idiots.
Just like State Radio's zeal to involve themselves with community activism, Cobalt and The Hired Guns are no strangers to social causes themselves. Last year, the band participated in the Kitty-palooza at the Empty Bottle, an event for kitten adoption. According to Tom, it's cool for them to be involved with events and causes like that. On Friday night, part of the proceeds will benefit Calling All Crows (founded by Chad Stokes of State Radio. It's an organization that brings together musicians and fans to raise human rights awareness. Currently Chad along with partner, Sybil Gallagher, are raising funds for the women in war-torn Darfur. For more information about this organization, visit www.callingallcrows.org.
In closing, Tom wants everyone to know that Cobalt and The Hired Guns about having fun on stage while helping others like you and SouthSide have fun too.
Once again, thanks to Tomlinson Fort for his time during this interview - it was a blast!
For more information about Cobalt and The Hired Guns, visit www.cobaltandthehiredguns.com or www.myspace.com/cobaltandthehiredguns.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Jeremy Jongsma - 21 Oct 09
...no one drinks Foster's (beer) in Australia...
Many of us know how fortunate it is to live in a city like Chicago especially during the summertime. That's the best time to really enjoy all that this town has to offer. From the annual blues to gospel fests with Pitchfork and Lolla in between, Chicago's music fests are known worldwide. These fests attracts tourists from all corners of the earth to the lakefront and diverse neighborhoods wherever there's music, food and fun.
Yet, have you ever wondered how a tourist views our fests? SouthSide had the extreme pleasure of befriending Jeremy Jongsma from Perth, Australia. She met him by chance at a Music Industry Workshop open house one Sunday evening. This talented singer/songwriter (as well as manager of a hiphop group) spent his long winter break in our fair city attending some of the summerime fests. Plus he spent time traveling to other US cities to enjoy a wide variety of music fests. Before leaving Chicago, this reviewer sat down with Jeremy for an in depth interview about his adventures here.
First off, Jeremy clearly made if known we Americans shouldn't believe everything the television and commercials tells us about the land down under. There are many misconceptions about Australia which aren't true. For example, Foster's doesn't mean beer there and they don't do "shrimp on the barbie". Actually, it's prawns that go on the barbie, blogspot readers. Also Sydney is not the capital either. Canberra, as Jeremy described it, is almost like what Washington D.C. is here to us in the US. He said many Americans are somewhat ignorant about things outside their borders. People thought he spoke very good English for a foreigner. "They had this stereotypical expectation about me with the Australian accent," quote Jeremy. Likewise, Australians have their opinions about Americans and life/culture in the US such as McDonald's. They believe it's good American cooking ...which we all know that's not true.
With that out of the way, it was time to really begin the interview. SouthSide asked what made him decide to spend his winter here. Jeremy replied that Denmark (his hometown) is more like a summer town located in the southwest corner of Western Australia. The state capital there is Perth. During the winter months, people travel up north to stay warm. So he decided to come here for our summer. He described Denmark as a cultural town where many artists and musicians live. He says it an amazing place which hosts an annual fest called Festival of Voice. Jeremy arrived here as part of a touring gospel choir that performed concerts in Black churches. He mentioned that it was a great cultural experience for him as well as the choir to share their love for gospel music with others when he joined the group for performances during September.
What did he like best about Chicago? Jeremy said we are spoiled stating this city's great for music fests. Many were walking distance for him (where he stayed during the summer) and the parks are awesome too. Also he said Chicago has a lot of good people who know how to do production in the big fests like Blues Fest. It's nice to see those who attend regularly for years. What he didn't like was the mid-section being roped off from the spectators. Jeremy wished he could have been closer to the stage without paying to enter the mid-section. Besides attending the Gospel and Blues Fests, he also went to the Taste of Chicago but missed the Jazz Fest because he was performing with the choir. Jeremy did travel to St. Louis for the Live on the Levy Fest and Memphis for their Music Heritage Fest. Also he traveled to Mississippi for the Sunflower Fest, a Blues and Gospel music fest and New Orleans for some jazz.
He told SouthSide that he's obsessed with the Blues since he was 18 years old and is surprised that this genre of music isn't regularly played here on the radio. Jeremy also noted that there many young Black (teenagers) aren't Blues fans. Most, he noticed, were white which made him disappointed because Chicago's such a great Blues town. And it's also part of African-American history. Yet, he did see a cross-cultural explosion happening here within today's Black youth. They're dressing in clothes which mixes hiphop and punk ...and more are into skating (skateboarding). In Australia, Blues and roots music is very popular especially within the teenage crowd. Jeremy said he had to search hard to find Chicago Blues music by artists like John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters and other greats which is readily available to us here in Chicago. He did have the extreme chance to meet Buddy Guy while here as well as perform at local clubs around town. He went as far as south 87th and Cottage Grove for some blues music a week before the Blues Fest. He marvelled how this place and the music attracted a diverse gathering of cultures enjoying good music.
During his travels here in Chicago, he was warned about going into certain neighborhoods. Jeremy knew there are dangers everywhere but that didn't deter him from finding places to hear music. SouthSide briefly mentioned there's an invisible dividing line in which most Blacks won't travel beyond in Chicago and vice versa for Whites and Hispanics. In the meantime, Jeremy discovered some hidden gems to hear as well as to perform live music. He visited the famous Buddy Guy's, Roses' and Lee's Blues Bar. He liked the Harlem Avenue Lounge (located on Ogden) which he says you can find some good blues music on certain nights. His other favorites include Reggie's Music Joint and Rock Club, Subterranean and Hidden Shamrock. Jeremy attended SubT's and Hidden Shamrock's open mic nights while here.
Jeremy stated that Chicago has so much to offer ...so we're not starving for music since it's continuously happening. He said it's disappointing to see approximately six people in the audience even though there will be millions during any given fest. Yet there's so much going on at once around Chicago that it does make it very difficult to attend all the shows at the same time. SouthSide clearly understands that problem when she's invited to two or three shows happening the same night. What he also liked about Chicago was there are good facilities, resources and clubs for musicians to connect with others i.e. Music Industry Workshop. "It's not an easy industry to get into," says Jeremy.
He also noticed with larger fests like Blues and Lolla, there's a disconnection between the artists and fans. Jeremy envisioned a gathering of others from different music genres ...local artists coming together for one huge show. SouthSide told him there was one such show as he mentioned. In June, local artists of film, photography, music and art gathered at the Congress Theatre for the I AM Fest. Twenty-five awesome bands rocked two stages during this day-long event as well as giving fans to view and purchase local artwork. Jeremy liked this event stating the days of listening to one genre are gone ...fusion is the wave of the future. Jeremy did advise that if you're going to have a fusion sound, make it original ...do not imitate others. SouthSide listened to a tiny sampled of Jeremy's music during this interview. She enjoyed the blend of hiphop, rock, reggae and blues that had her dancing in the Starbuck's chair.
Jeremy has considered bringing his bands to Chicago. It's part of his master plan and why he was here in Chicago. He needed to connect with others and check out the music scene here. Plus he needed to establish contact with venue/talent buyers as well as getting his feet wet into performing live on stage. Also while here, he wrote ten new songs. SouthSide cannot wait to hear them.
Briefly, Jeremy and SouthSide talked about radio stations geared for independent artists like Fearless Radio. He said there aren't many in Australia that play indie/local music since they're either commercial or national stations. They play the same overplayed corporate stuff like they do here. Triple J ( www.abc.net.au/triplej ), almost like a college station though it's not, in Australia is a government funded radio station. It plays indie artists of all kinds even those with graphic language/lyrics which comes with a warning before the song is played. Triple J also features different shows nightly like hiphop and rock. There's also Youth National Radio (featuring mostly indie and popular artists) and ABC Radio for the "older" adult listeners that features programs like documentaries and classic radio. SouthSide learned an interesting fact about Australian radio too. The government relinquished some control of what can be aired/said on air since it represents the people. Something the FCC would never dream of doing anytime soon. While here, Jeremy did discover a couple of radio stations for blues music such as the WEVL (in Memphis - http://www.wevl.org/ ) and WWOZ (in New Orleans - http://www.wwoz.og/ ).
What will Jeremy miss the most about the US? He replied Chicago and Memphis the most however he wants to see more of Mississippi. New Orleans, he said, was inspiring music wise. He also liked St. Louis because the clubs were accepting to those beginner artists wanting to perform. He also recommends checking out a phenomenal blues/jazz artist named Kim Massie and visiting the Venice Cafe.
SouthSide wrapped up the interview with two final questions for Jeremy. After returning to Australia, fans would be able to see him perform at a local blues fest in Bridgetown. But first, fans in Chicago said goodbye to Moondog J (his stage name) in a farewell show held at The Krash located in Bridgeview, IL on Oct 23rd. He does plan on returning to Chicago within three years. In the meantime, his hiphop band has an album that will be coming out soon and for now his blues band is mainly a live performance band. You can find a couple of blues tracks on his myspace page. He's ready to record his new songs when getting home.
WOW - what a lively interview with Jeremy, my blogspot readers. SouthSide's looking forward to seeing him again in the near future and will definitely keep in contact with this artist. For more information, you can find Jeremy at www.myspace.com/moondogj or email him at moondogj@gmail.com
Until next time, support your local artists and musicians.
SouthSide
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Dan Sindel - 29 Jan 09
Who is this symphonic guitarist named Dan Sindel? 
Like any medium using technology, the advantages and disadvantages are about the same. The advantages of taking Dan’s lessons online the person doesn’t have to waste gas and money especially if the weather is bad. Another advantage is that it saves time. You can take a lesson anytime you want. On the flipside, the disadvantages would be choppy video and breaks in net connection. Dan told SouthSide that this did get some response from a few representatives during NAMM. At the time of this interview, he was still in talks with software companies about online and lesson tutorials. Some of the ideas like downloadable lessons for a reasonable price are being tossed around.
He’s the maestro of symphonic sound reviving classical compositions by Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert on guitar. He dazzled fans with instrumental imagery of Anitra’s Dance and Ole. He triumphed with his version of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and other Messiah excerpts. Then he had others marching to a different beat with his tribute to John Philip Sousa. Now, you can call him teacher. Using technology to his advantage, Dan Sindel is off to conquer cyberspace with his online guitar lessons. And according to him, this venture is taking off quite well. Recently, the wizard granted SouthSide an all-access pass to find out what’s happening in his realm.
This year at NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Dan had a purpose. It was to promote his new site, www.ezgtr.com, and video guitar lessons. His site is sponsored by GHS / Rockton, Notion Music, Levy Leather Straps and The Guitar Wheel. Currently this site only targets beginners and immediate players but there are future plans to create lessons for advance players. What makes this site so helpful for users is that it’s not a pre-recorded lesson. You get the symphonic maestro teaching the lesson himself. As a test, Dan launched the idea with a couple of YouTube video lessons at the end of 2008. Now, he has quite a number who have signed up for his lessons.
Like any medium using technology, the advantages and disadvantages are about the same. The advantages of taking Dan’s lessons online the person doesn’t have to waste gas and money especially if the weather is bad. Another advantage is that it saves time. You can take a lesson anytime you want. On the flipside, the disadvantages would be choppy video and breaks in net connection. Dan told SouthSide that this did get some response from a few representatives during NAMM. At the time of this interview, he was still in talks with software companies about online and lesson tutorials. Some of the ideas like downloadable lessons for a reasonable price are being tossed around.According to Dan, music has changed alongside with technology. The amount of exposure an artist can have is astounding because of the connection with many around the world. Though the recording industry hasn’t caught up, musicians still have to promote themselves the old fashion way. The internet is great for beginning bands and artists but they have to put the effort in getting their name and music to the willing listener. To quote Dan, “it’s hard work in this business.” SouthSide understood that statement all too well. She has seen many bands rise and peak to the top only to falter in the end. “With a little bit of practice and patience, you can go far”, Dan said.
It wasn’t all talk about online guitar lessons with my friend Dan. He asked SouthSide what was new in the Blagojevich scandal. Besides making headlines here around town, it was big news in Los Angeles. Talk about him sparked an impromptu song by Dan dedicated to the embattled (now former) governor. He did treat this reviewer a few riffs of everyone’s acoustic request, Freebird. Dan was very excited over the press and write-up he has received for his Marching In CD, The interview ended with this piece advice for all musicians - love what you do and don’t get caught trying to be a superstar.
Wise words, Fearless fans, from the maestro himself. For more information about Dan Sindel and his online guitar lessons, check out www.ezgtr.com, on YouTube at www.youtube.com/user/ezgtr and on myspace at www.myspace.com/ezgtr.
Until next time, Fearless fans, support local indie artists and music.
Peace
SouthSide
Until next time, Fearless fans, support local indie artists and music.
Peace
SouthSide
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