Honest To Blog?

"When Mary was denied a room at the inn… Jesus was born. When Michael was denied a room at the..."

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 23:08:00 -0500

““When Mary was denied a room at the inn… Jesus was born. When Michael was denied a room at the inn, we don’t know what happens because that story hasn’t been told yet.””

- Michael Scott

Bless The Fall

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:43:39 -0500

***This article can be viewed in Issue 16 of Substream Magazine***

Returning from a South American tour with a new album ready to hit stores, Bless The Fall are no strangers to the studio or stage. Their upcoming release, Witness, will be their first from Fearless Records, and with new lead signer Beau Bokan. Hitting shelves on Oct 6, Witness features the song “God Wears Gucci,” which the band featured on their Myspace profile back in July. The track, says Bokan, “was just a funny play on words. The song is about people who try to make money off God’s name, and who think God is just a fashion, etc.”

Putting a great deal of time and energy into each track is what this five-piece band from Phoenix attempts to do when in the studio. “We poured our hearts into every song from the beginning to the end,” Bokan says about Witness. “A lot of bands will settle for writing filler songs to take up time, but we truly put just as much effort into each and every song.”

Bless The Fall’s inspiration comes from life experiences, relationships, and the struggles they have endured. But there is more to creating a musical masterpiece than just the content of the tracks. A hardworking and dedicated team is needed to provide strength in unity, as well as keeping the fans involved as much as possible. Bokan feels that Fearless has really stepped up to the plate.

“We had meetings with several labels before choosing [Fearless].” he explains. “We’re super confident that they will put 100 percent into making sure everyone knows about our band.”

Among a few international tours in the works, such as the UK and other European countries that are planned for December, the guys are also looking to travel to Canada and countries in Asia. Fans within the US can catch Bless The Fall on a co-headliner with Finch for the Atticus Tour, which Bokan is very excited about. “Being able to tour with a band like Finch who have been around forever and who a lot of us grew up listening to is pretty amazing,” he says. The diversity of the different bands on the package sparked his interest. “I’m stoked for Let’s Get It. I’m sure they’ll get the party started every night.”

While out in the crowd, fans will get to hear firsthand some tracks off the upcoming album. “We take great pride in our live show,” Bokan adds. “We practice constantly to make sure we’re hitting all the notes and harmonies that you would hear on our record.”

Expect to see a few positive changes as well. “We want everyone to witness a growing, changing, and eventually re-birthing of our band,” he says. “…From what it was into something new and beautiful.” Thus the title of the release, as well as the clever album artwork. Another change to be witnessed is the singer himself, who was added to the ensemble one year ago this month.

Bokan believes that it is their work ethic that sets the band apart from others in their genre. “A lot of bands lack in this area,” he explains. “They believe things should just be handed to them, when in fact you get what you put in. We work our asses off constantly.” The group hopes to reap the benefits of this hard work upon their upcoming worldwide tour schedule and the release of their much-anticipated album next month.

Of Mice & Men

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:35:10 -0500

**This article can be viewed in Issue 16 of Substream Magazine**

Hitting the road on the Squash the Beef Tour and Atticus Tour this fall, Of Mice & Men are excited to get back on stage and give the fans what they deserve. Ever since this up-and-coming band has played their first show, the response from the masses has singer Austin Carlile thrilled.

“I will never forget playing our two songs we have posted [on Myspace] and having the fans sing along to every word,” he says. “I’m just some kid from Ohio; we are in California and they know all the words!”

The five-piece ensemble, put together by Carlile (former Attack Attack vocalist) and bassist Jaxin Hall from New Zealand, is a recent addition to Rise Records and is recording a debut album as we speak. According to Carlile, their experience in the studio thus far has been a struggle, but nothing short of an adventure.

“From having to take a week off, to the water being shut off, to having no air conditioning… it’s been something like a camping trip.” However, the guys are making the most of it while they can.

Along with producer Joey Sturgis at Foundation Studios, the band is laying every instrument down and tracking vocals randomly. Carlile says a few surprises can be expected once the album is released. Above all, fans can look forward to an up-front message and upbeat sound. “We wanted to make something fun to listen to and something that didn’t beat around the bush with the points we are trying to get across.”

Carlile and Hall teamed up with drummer Tino Arteaga, and guitarists Phil Manansala and Shayley Bourget to form the band that Carlile claims is difficult to classify into one specific genre.

“We aren’t hardcore or metal…and screamo is an overused term already,” he says. “I would say we are different from any band because of how much we all want this.”

In previous bands and with this new project, the five members have been promoting, selling tickets at malls, handing out demo cds, and paying their dues for years. The payoff is this opportunity to get a taste of what they have been working hard to accomplish. “So, what sets us aside from other bands? Heart.” says Carlile.

With the secured backing support of big operations such as Rise Records and The Artery Foundation just after the first two songs were released on Myspace, Of Mice & Men have been anxious to line up tour after tour and do what they love most. “We are honestly blessed with this chance, and just want to show everyone how much we want this and that we are here to stay,” says Carlile. The band will be on the road without a break until late December, and have plans beyond then as well.

The opportunity to tour with bands such as Dance Gavin Dance and Emarosa has given the group a boost onto the scene at an early stage. “The Agency and The Artery crew did an exceptional job at getting us off on a solid start,” the vocalist says. And when asked about the likelihood of a tour in the future with Attack Attack, Carlile simply replied: “I honestly would have no problem with it. Let’s do it.”

Update: I moved from New York City to Miami, FL. Can you blame...

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:39:11 -0400

Update: I moved from New York City to Miami, FL. Can you blame me?

This is one of the many reasons why I have been slacking with the blog posts. That, and I moved in with my boyfriend, so we have been quite busy getting settled and such.

I promise I have some really awesome articles in the works, and I cannot wait to polish them up and post them for your reading pleasure!

Go grab issue 15 of Substream at a Barnes and Noble or FYE near...

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:29:45 -0400

Go grab issue 15 of Substream at a Barnes and Noble or FYE near you :)

I unfortunately did not write for this issue, but I will from now on. Click the photo to visit their myspace for updates.

I’ll be posting some snazzy articles soon, so keep checking my blog for those.

Album Review: Breathe Carolina - Hello Fascination

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:22:00 -0400

Band: Breathe Carolina
Album: Hello Fascination
Release Date: August 18, 2009
Label: Fearless
Rating: 2.5/5

As I do not typically support bands whose careers began with GarageBand and 10,000 daily Myspace plays, I am pleased with the level of experimentation, “musicianship,” and effort that Kyle Even and David Schmitt put into their sophomore album. Now, that is assuming they personally had anything to do with it. As their first album on Fearless Records, Hello Fascination nearly meets the hype that surrounded its release. While their previous tracks were seen as thoughtless and sexually-overdosed electronic songs laced with cheesy vocoder effects and unnecessary screaming, this new album has a small dose of what the others have lacked: substance.

In a world where three girls bopping around on stage wearing next to nothing, while lip syncing to tracks on their iPod can be called a “band,” it is difficult to excel in this genre without being considered fake. Though many were skeptical about Breathe Carolina when they first released Gossip in 2007, I have a feeling this album will receive a more thoughtful assessment. Adding actual instruments was a wise decision to break away from the trend and prove that the duo is not just banking on a marketing fad. This can also be seen through the lyrics, which, for once are not solely about wanting, witnessing, or having sex.

The opening track, “Hello Fascination,” starts off a bit Marilyn Manson-ish, but begins to make more sense when the first verse kicks in. With lyrics that anyone in the public eye could appreciate: “here’s to you- criticize, my darlings. Are you satisfied?” David expresses, sans vocal effects, that he acknowledges people are listening and analyzing the band’s every move. The instrumental and digital complexity of this track, along with others such as “Welcome to Savannah,” prove that the two have more up their sleeves than just brainless dance screamo.

Tracks “I’m The Type Of Person To Take Things Personal,” and “Take Me To Infinity” flow together seamlessly, and are each valuable songs to the album. Both begin like classic electronic tracks with fast-paced dance beats and synth overtones, but with clever hooks and gripping vocal melodies. While “Dressed Up To Undress” adds a hint of pop to the mix with higher pitched vocals and a simple piano melody, it is by no means a childish take on an upbeat dance number. Albeit annoying, the sexual connotation theme is synonymous with Breathe Carolina’s overall sound. “I.D.G.A.F.” further supports that assessment.

Much to my surprise, I enjoyed the first half of the album. However, 13 tracks is a bit of an overkill with this genre of music, and it lacks cohesiveness. For example, “Tripped And Fell In Portland,” is much too nu-metal for its own good. Although it failed tremendously, I can see what they were attempting: to reach out to their post-hardcore roots and explore a more instrumental sound.

With that being said, I give Hello Fascination an “A” for effort, but a “C” overall. Already established Breathe Carolina fans will buy into it, sure. However, even with the provided ability to attract all the critics and skeptics, this record failed to step up to the challenge and likely won’t win over a new fan base. But hey guys, pat yourselves on the back for attempting to be “real” musicians. Just don’t expect much more than a bit of glorifying praise from teen scene girls while their boyfriends roll their eyes. You should be used to it by now.

Album Review: Cobra Starship - Hot Mess

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:13:00 -0400

Band: Cobra Starship

Album: Hot Mess

Label: Decaydance/Fueled by Ramen

Release: August 11, 2009

Rating: 2.5/5

With as much promotion as this album has received since the May release of “Good Girls Go Bad,” I expected a lot more from Gabe Saporta & Co. From advertisements to MTV plugs and the release of a music video, Hot Mess has been causing quite a stir. While it is known that there is no such thing as bad press, there is such thing as bad music.

Hyped up by the band members, Decaydance, Fueled by Ramen, and you know, that one chick from Gossip Girl, Cobra Starship’s new album has fallen short of its expectations. While fanning myself at Warped Tour with a cardboard cutout of Hot Mess’ album art, I wondered if this was Gabe Saporta’s plan all along… or if this was one of those things that just happens. His career has been on a steady decline into the world of neon plastic sunglasses and electro-pop nightmares since Cobra’s first album. With tracks that are beyond dull, and a few that cause me to actually shudder in disgust, Hot Mess has done one thing right: stayed true to its name.

“Nice Guys Finish Last” is not just the worst song on the album, but quite possibly the worst song I have ever heard. The simplistic radio-pop beat, boring melodies and brainless lyrics are almost as nauseating as the female vocals. It would have done better buried further in the CD as the sixth or seventh track. Songs like “Pete Wentz Is The Only Reason We’re Famous” and “Fold Your Hands Child” instantly fade into background music after the first 30 seconds. “Wet Hot American Summer” could be tolerated with its catchy combination of retro synth sounds and drum beats, but I get lost in the cheesy chorus and bridge. Lyrically, the 11 tracks give the same pretentious message: Gabe Saporta is a bad boy with an attitude who will make you “move like you’re gonna die soon”… whatever that means.

A few of the songs worth listening to on this album include “Good Girls Go Bad” for its catchiness and memorable chorus. While Leighton Meester probably shouldn’t pursue a singing career, I will hand it to Cobra for scoring and executing that A-list marketing tactic. I do enjoy the overall liveliness and upbeat tone of “You’re Not In On The Joke,” simply for the fact that it stays true to Cobra Starship’s sound. The entire first verse and chorus display creative melodies and vocal tonality, which carries throughout the track until the energetic screaming in the end. Besides these two tracks, however, it is safe to say that this Cobra album fails to be a guilty pleasure for me. Shut up.

While there isn’t much to boast about in the realm of instrumental talent and creativity, let it be known that Saporta’s voice and tone makes Hot Mess bearable at best. That should be expected from someone with a career such as his, though. The same goes for the production value, which I attribute as merely “noteworthy.” However, only perfection should be expected from such names as S*A*M and Sluggo, Patrick Stump, Kevin Rudolf, and Benny Blanco. Sadly, this list of cool brags managed to produce something good… but not great. And I want to know who paid MTV reviewer James Montgomery to deem Hot Mess Cobra’s “most brilliant album.” I’d say it’s more like falling asleep on a train to Midtown, missing my stop, and ending up in a place where the girls are bad, the guys all brag, and Saporta’s v-necks are deeper than his lyrics.

Summer Sensation or Festival Fail?

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 19:38:00 -0400

Every year I tell myself that this will be the last… Well, I said it again.

Van’s Warped Tour turned 15 this year, and gave me a lot to blog about. I have been an attendee for roughly 8 of those many precious years, and never have I had so much fun while having such a terrible time all at once.

Amidst the sea of awful tattoos, sunburns, and facial piercings, I herded with the other scenesters and punk kids from stage to stage, while gripping my $5 bottle of water that seemed to run dry much too fast.

Passing through crowds of people, I experienced the ever familiar sensation of being much too hot and sweaty, pissed off, and mildly excited to stand for hours at a time while trying to avoid using the portable toilets as much as humanly possible.

Throughout the course of the day, I made quite a few observations that brought new ideas to my attention, and also gave me deja vu of years past.

First of all, the crowd never changes: young girls of a questionable age wearing nothing but a bikini top and boy-short bottoms, flirting with every band guy, guitar tech, and merch dude alike; bro-moshers, in khaki shorts and sans t-shirts, with some sort of writing on their chests in permanent ink, jumping and pushing one another to the sounds of punk rock and/or ska music; little scened-out teenagers traveling in groups of 3 and 4, anxiously wandering the grounds with a pen and digital camera seeking their favorite lead singer; emo boys that look barely old enough to be smoking that cigarette; the obvious musician appearing more groomed and less sweaty than everyone else, just emerging from the air-conditioned tour bus to walk around, showing off their laminate and freshly flat-ironed hair; boys and girls finger-blasting their sidekicks, tweeting and @replying anyone and everyone about the band they’re watching, or the hardly famous guitarist that just passed by…

I could go on for hours about the different breeds that attend the annual music fest, but I won’t waste your time. If you have ever been to one of the dozens upon dozens of tour dates in a city near you during the months of May-August, I’m sure you have witnessed all of that for yourself. Moreover, if you noticed a few major changes this year from that of previous years, you weren’t the only one.

Which brings me to my next point…
Kevin Lyman needs to step up his game. Seriously. Half of the bands booked to the smaller stages were unrecognizable to myself and others who are consistent with the music industry; they just flat-out sucked. On top of my complaints concerning poor booking, I noticed a decrease in the number of stages present at the festival. Aren’t there usually two main stages? And although the schedule ran until 8:30 PM, there was no “closing” band on the Vans Main Stage. That time slot was completely empty. Because of this fault, bands like Lights and A Day To Remember were playing on similar-sized stages. This made very little sense to me.
My immediate guess for the reason of this change was a lack of funds in our declining economy; however, water was still $5, and don’t even get me started on the price of other beverages. While a money deficiency is understandable, I cannot explain the lack of food, water, restroom facilities, sponsors’ tents, and the complete absence of trash cans! My final answer is: poor production, poor planning, and sub-par execution on the event day itself.

Now, I don’t know too much about past band drama with disputes over religious-connotaded music and how tastefully or poorly that was handled, but this year I did notice a bit of scrutiny against different genres of music. During the Millionaires’ set, I glanced out into the crowd and witnessed only a handful of spectators actually enjoying themselves and singing along. The rest were either making stink faces or throwing garbage at the stage. Among these stink faces (and I won’t name names) were the familiar faces of bands who were also on the tour. And you don’t need a spy kit to discover how widely this genre of music is hated among those musicians who play instruments and actually write and sing songs. I find diversity in booking bands to be a very mature and modern concept in the music industry today. Of course, without variety, we would all be listening to the same thing. However, when this tour extravaganza began in 1995, the bands were mostly punk and ska. Now we are seeing a melting pot of those plus pop-punk, post-hardcore, hip hop, electronica, screamo, pop-rock, and more. Maybe the reason for the decline in funds and popularity of Warped Tour is because the name has lost a face? Just a thought.

So, while I sit and wait for 12 months to pass as I debate on skipping out on next year’s Warped Tour, I will ice down my knees, even out my v-neck tan, and cross my fingers that this event improves. With that old and familiar anticipation losing its luster, the production crew and creative team needs to come up with a new twist to re-spark the interest of loyal Warped attendees. To be completely honest, I had to leave early this year because I was literally nauseous.

allow myself to explain....myself...

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 02:15:00 -0400

Hi! I am posting this blog for many specific reasons that I intend to share with you on a very honest and public basis, so pay close attention.

First of all, I sincerely apologize to anyone who has been looking forward to the release of Exposure Magazine. Due to complications beyond my control, Siobhan and I have decided to slow down with this project and see where the next few months will allow for our progress to proceed. More clearly stated: I have no idea when it will be launched. I have completed the majority of my written editorials about some very amazing musicians, and if I feel the need, I will post a few up here. We’ll see…

Secondly, I would also like to apologize to any friends, readers, and/or bands looking for publicity who have been contacting me and noticing my lack of a reply. I know excuses are a dime a dozen, and I promise you I wish I didn’t have to make them. I work more hours a week than humanly necessary, and at the end of the day I choose to do what I love: research, write about, manage, and avidly listen to music.

Which brings me to my next point-

I am officially doing publicity for this amazing band from Miami Florida

And Then There Was You

Go check them out and support the cause! (You’re helping me out too, duh)

They are currently wrapping up a tour and preparing to release a new album in the fall, so look out for that as well.

Oh! and follow them on twitter- http://twitter.com/attwy

Anyway, I apologize once again for my lack of responsiveness, availability, and just being a decent friend to some of you. It means a lot that you still stick around and read my blogs/invite me to review albums. Hopefully I will find the time and inspiration to post a good amount of new content soon, so don’t wander too far.

I love you all!

xo-

Becca

Oh, MJ…thank you for contributing in some way, shape, or...

Sat, 27 Jun 2009 01:55:23 -0400

Oh, MJ…thank you for contributing in some way, shape, or form to every band and style of music that I enjoy listening to and writing about.

r.i.p.

Couldn’t have said it better myself. Err…wait…...

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 02:21:17 -0400

Couldn’t have said it better myself. Err…wait… I did. Yeah :)

There's a party in your bedroom...but that's it.

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:24:00 -0400

Anyone in their right mind can notice the effective shift taking place in the music industry. With at-home recording equipment becoming less expensive than some professional studio sessions, “musicians” and anyone with about $3000 to spare can produce their own top-notch material. But just because you own a Korg, a MacBook, and a set of Bose headphones, doesn’t mean you are a platinum recording artist… and odds are, you never will be.

Recording pop/electronica music digitally can be done in a small studio apartment or your mom’s living room using a pirated version of Pro Tools and a synth with 37 keys or less. Sure, you can now create thousands of variations of sounds using as little as two machines and accomplish feats that music industry professionals would’ve deemed impossible 10 years ago. Just keep in mind that real talent cannot be purchased at Guitar Center.

Bands are now producing entire albums in the studio using simulations of drums and bass and taking themselves out on the road to tour the country. So would this be considered on-the-road-karaoke? That makes no sense to me. Also, in what sense are these acts worthy of being signed to labels like Fearless and Epitaph? I suppose two million myspace plays is all it takes.

A blend of musical talent including instruments and digital sounds is ideal, and can add depth and spectrum to simplified pop rock music. Although no longer original, bands are adding vocal effects and snazzy beats to play up their sound to get fans moving and attract a wider range of listeners. This is acceptable, and oftentimes encouraged. However, being solely dependent on a generic dance beat that can be created in seconds on a keyboard by my little sister, is not. If that is all you have on your resume, you shouldn’t quit your day job. I blame the popularity and simplicity of talentless rap and hip hop music for this discraceful shift in the industry. Some kid must have caught on to how easy and marketable it is to tap some keys in synchronization with rambling into a microphone, and selling it as talent. Note: being a keyboardist is different. That involves dedication, skill, an ear for tones and melodies, and oftentimes the ability to read and compose sheet music.

All that is being suggested here is this: if you have a talent, use it to the best of your ability. If you do not, then please remove yourself from this business. Don’t play into the trends, and stay away from falling into something because it is “hot right now.” Be true to yourself and your skills. Most of all- if you are in this for the money, you will fail. Let your music speak for itself.

New Favorite: The Ready Set

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:10:00 -0400

There’s something about this kid’s music that makes me want to give him a high five. I give Jordan Witzigreuter props for being more than just a one-man-band/wannabe who schemes to make it big using a keyboard and a computer. The electronica/pop movement is overpowering the scene in large numbers these days, but Jordan is taking the road less traveled. What I refer to as the “male version of Lights,” this 19-year-old solo pop sensation is on his way toward releasing an EP titled “Stays Four The Same,” which will be available for purchase on iTunes June 23.

Like every musician should, Jordan dabbles with multiple instruments including drums and keyboards. This upcoming popstar’s tunes are the result of his own creativity and love for music, with his fancy harmonious vocals to top it all off. With all of the synthesizers and vocoder effects crowding my earphones on a daily basis, I am relieved to hear something original come out of someone so unexpected. Catchy lyrics, hip-hop-influenced (yet not overdone) beats, and surprising melodies are not all that you can expect from this recent high school graduate from Fort Wayne, Ind. His original sound sold me on first listen, and that deserves some sort of reward. Seriously.

The opening track, “Stays Four The Same” immediately hooks me with a piano melody and then kicks into an upbeat electronic/pop rhythym. While the lyrics are a bit childish, it fits with his overall image. Jordan cites a few hip hop and electronic influences on his myspace bio, including Kanye West and Daft Punk, which can clearly be picked out of this track. The pitch and depth of his pop rock vocals fit in quite nicely to incorporate all elements that make The Ready Set marketable as hell to kids spanning quite a few genres.

Secondly, “Unender” starts off sounding like something Usher would have created in the 90s (not complaining). Being a keyboardist and synth extraordinaire, I can relate to the difficulty and complexity of this tune. When listening closely, you can catch multiple unique sound effects, beat variations, and different genre influences. Also, how refreshing is it for an electronic musician to not overuse vocal effects? The answer is, “very.”

This three-song EP rounds out with “Giants,” a super enticing and captivating song that could easily get stuck in your head for hours. Jordan spits lyrics left and right (am I allowed to say that?) in a way that will blow your mind. He obviously has more talent as a vocalist than most musicians in this genre, and proves it, especially at about 1:50 in this track. The keyboard strokes are too staccato for this song, but he somehow makes the cohesvie instruments flow harmoniously.

Play this EP for roughly ten and a half minutes of enjoyable tunes that are sure to make you move in one way or another. Although this seems like one of those “love it or hate it” situations, I recommend giving it a chance.

Also, look for The Ready Set on tour with Boys Like Girls and Never Shout Never this summer.

http://www.myspace.com/thereadyset

Album Review: The Friday Night Boys - Off The Deep End

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 23:30:00 -0400

Band: The Friday Night Boys
Album: Off The Deep End
Label: Fueled By Ramen
Release Date: June 9, 2009
Producer: Emanuel Kiriakou

Not many bands can pull off pop rock to the extreme like The Friday Night Boys. After listening to their first full-length album, Off The Deep End, more times than necessary, I am convinced of one thing: fans are going to eat this up. And even if you roll your eyes at this genre of music, FNB masters their craft so well that non-listeners could easily become closet fans. I am instantly deeming this album as my new guilty pleasure.

Pop rock can be difficult to master nowadays with all of the different blends of talent and labels that are stapled to musicians’ foreheads. Though closely related in sound, you have to admit that acts like The Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus have completely different fan bases than groups like Fall Out Boy and Hey Monday. Somehow music becomes less about sound and more about appearance and your record label/management team. FNB teeters on this boundary of kid-pop and more mature pop/punk with relatable lyrics, strong guitar riffs, and more rock-based drum beats. I will admit that it was genius of them to have their new album produced by Emanuel Kiriakou, who has worked with such musicians as Jesse McCartney, Jordin Sparks, and Ashley Tisdale. The Friday Night Boys have the necessary talent at their fingertips, the appropriate following, and the look that sells. All they needed was a push in toward the successful direction, and I’d say they achieved that quite well.

The opening track, “Permanent Heartbreak” has been playing in my head since the band released it on their myspace. Tongue-in-cheek lyrics don’t usually flow well for me, but frontman Andrew Goldstein proudly wears his heart on his sleeve. The song contains the perfect combination of slightly distorted guitars, drum beats that you can’t help but tap your foot to, strategically placed synth effects, and melodies that will resonate in your skull for months. Oh, and I can’t forget that guitar solo that makes me thankful for bands who still care to showcase their talents instead of tossing in a repetitive breakdown to take up 30 seconds of the track.

The next three songs are catchy and definitely fit in with the overall sound of the album, but none of them stand out in a notable fashion. “Stupid Love Letter” sounds like a last minute filler track that was thrown together in the studio. I could be wrong about that, but it is repetitive and doesn’t contain any noteworthy or unique elements. “Suicide Sunday” has harmonious lyrics that will make you sing along while wondering how this song got into your head in the first place. Like all of the ballads on this album, I am not crazy about “Finding Me Out.” They are a bit boring and drawn-out. The piano melodies are enjoyable, though.

I love to hate and hate to love the track “Stuttering.” I can’t put my finger on why this song is so damn catchy. It could be the clever lyrics or memorable melodies and broken words that Goldstein incorporates with such a natural ease. As for my other favorite track, “Hollow” …can you say radio worthy? This chorus has a punch to it that separates it from the rest of the album. The following three songs are decent, but I’m not in love. “Molly Makeout,” while having catchy background vocals, is a little too pop for my taste. Not to mention the lyrics are borderline cheesy. “Sorry I Stole Your Gurl” is an incredible way to round out this 12-track album, though. The electronic elements and effects add a nice touch to this already addictive tune. I could do without the whispering in the second verse, though. With that being said, the guitar solo shortly afterward makes up for any lyrical nonsense.

From their appearance on TRL’s On Your Radar over a year ago to their swift signing to Fueled By Ramen, The Friday Night Boys have been blowing fans away with their upbeat tunes and melodious lyrics since 2006. The impending success of this four-piece band from Fairfax ,Va. is almost inevitable. Pop music can be annoying and overdone, but this album side-steps those aspects with ease. Besides a few ballads that aren’t up to par, I would gladly recommend this album to a friend. Kudos to you, FNB, for creating a pop rock album that, for the most part, doesn’t make me hate your band.

NeverShoutNever signs to Warner Bros?

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:28:28 -0400

NeverShoutNever signs to Warner Bros?:

Okay, you go read this and tell me how it is possible/fair/comprehensible. I can’t make sense of how bands with talent oozing out their ears can be overlooked by labels and management, but then something like this happens. Wow. That’s all I am saying.

Summer 2009 Tours

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:08:07 -0400

So, it’s summer time again, which means there are a ton of upcoming tours to look forward to. Now, I don’t know about you, but I always get a little flustered when trying to coordinate dates and times, and figuring out who is playing where and when and how I plan to get there, blah blah blah. Sorry, I cannot personally secure your ride to and from the venue, nor can I organize your iCal with the dates and times for shows in your vicinity. However, I’d be more than happy to list for you a few of the tours that I am anxiously anticipating. Not only that, but I will give you little tidbits of details, and why you won’t want to miss these performances!

P.S. I am going to try to make it out to all of the New York City dates of these shows (and possibly some NJ ones), so if you are reading this and thinking, “oh, hmm I may be there as well!” then let me know and we can meet up!

Blink-182 with special guests: Weezer, Fall Out Boy, Taking Back Sunday, Panic at the Disco, The All-American Rejects, Chester French and Asher Roth

Whew. What a list. If you are a human being between the ages of 13-40 (and possibly beyond that) you know Blink-182 has gotten back together, and are planning a ridiculous summer tour of epic proportions. Technically this is more than just a summer event, considering the fact that it spans from mid-July to early October. As if fans could not be more excited about seeing their favorite pop-punk trio play live for the first time since December 2004, they will also get a taste of some of the most amazing acts to grace most venue’s stages. This tour begins in the western region of the country and loops around a time or two. Since the dates and locations are a bit scattered and the “special guests” vary from show to show, it would be best for you to check out their web site for all the details.

http://www.blink182.com

Oh! and presale tickets can be bought online now:

http://modlife.com/blink182presale/tourdates

Four Year Strong/Set Your Goals with The Swellers, Polar Bear Club, Fireworks, A Loss For Words, Grave Maker and Drive A

If you think listening to Four Year Strong’s album Rise or Die Trying is an enjoyable experience, just wait until you catch their live performance this summer with Set Your Goals. There are a few adjectives that come to mind here: lively, energetic, catchy… but basically the one word I use to describe FYS: amazing. There’s a quality to their unique blending of sounds that can’t be touched by any other band. In addition to that madness, I am definitely looking forward to the mix of incredible talent that will be on this tour package. I have mentioned The Swellers in previous posts, and have seen them live recently. Definitely look out for this show and mark your calendars for the dates nearest you! :)

http://www.myspace.com/fouryearstrong

Lets Make A Mess Tour, featuring: Hey Monday, This Providence, The Friday Night Boys, Stereo Skyline, The Bigger Lights

Holy incredible lineup! I was so excited to hear that Hey Monday was touring with The Friday Night Boys, because I have previously imagined what an awesome combination this would be for a live performance. Add a few catchy pop-ish ensembles like Stereo Skyline and The Bigger Lights, and you’ve got an entire night of being asked to “get off your feet” while pushing through crowds of tweens and scene kids. This tour kicks off in Arizona on June 10, and makes a big circle around the country until its final date on July 24. With presale tickets going for no more than $13, there is literally no reason to miss this tour.

http://www.myspace.com/heymonday

Obviously I could continue on to talk about Warped Tour and other festivals, but that would be a bit redundant. Just go to http://www.warpedtour.com for dates, bands, and ticket information.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the right side of the screen to see the new Cash Cash music video for their single, “Party In Your Bedroom.” Catchy song, talented band, cheesy music video, but hey- you love them and you know it.

Artery Foundation Across The Nation Tour 2009: Emarosa, Our Last Night, In Fear And Faith, I See Stars, Burden Of A Day, Broadway

Let me tell you why this tour is worth missing your best friends’ birthday for-

First of all: Emarosa puts on a flawless live performance. I have seen them about four times in the past year and not once did I have anything less than goosebumps. Jonny Craig is a master of his domain, and quite possibly one of the greatest vocalists of this genre at this point in time. If you can’t help but be blown away by his raspy high notes and unfathomable melodies, then you will be very much impressed when you attend a show between June 19 - August 1. In addition, Burden Of A Day recently released a new album, which should be more than entertaining to experience live. Their classic rock-like melodies, while mere genius on their new record “One One Thousand,” should be absolutely stunning to witness on stage as well. As if I needed to persuade you even more, arrive to the show early to catch Broadway. They have a new album coming out, and the industry has very high expectations for these guys.

Purchase presale tickets and get all kinds of goodies as a bonus!

http://www.thearteryfoundation.com

Fail.

Thu, 28 May 2009 06:41:00 -0400

Let’s see if I can post a blog from my iPhone.. I am at La Guardia airport, waiting for my flight to Orlando to board, and that is precisely what I am- bored. (same pronunciation, different spelling and meaning). Ok aaaaanyway, I have some thoughts swirling around in my fantastical brain and figured sharing them on my blog would be quite appropriate. Unfortunately I don’t have any fancy photos to attach, nor am I able to or willing to figure out how to post links. However, I am fully capable of captivating you with my words alone.

Not too long after fighting with the zippers on my boots while going through security in this freezing airport in Queens, I dragged my economical carry-on luggage to the magazine stands to make a purchase. Okay, I am lying…I bee-lined to Starbucks. But after that, I thought, “why not do some industry-based research on the flight?” So while wandering over to the many racks and shelves, I realized that there are about 20 namely fashion magazines, 10-15 home/garden/Martha Stewart/Oprah baloney whatevers, and countless business, technology, and travel publications. What about music? Okay so we’ve got Spin, Rolling Stone, and Vibe; none of which spark my interest. Especially when they feel about 40 pages thick. I stood there staring at Eminem’s mug on about 5 separate magazine covers before casually sipping on my latte and walking away.

Music media is obviously making a transformational shift from print to online content. I am curious as to why, though. Why music and not fashion or travel? With all of the many outlets for information nowadays, it is apparent that people are purchasing fewer hand-held informational publications, no matter how thick or glossy. But what will this mean for the industry as a whole? (note: this is where I would normally insert a quote or statistic pertaining to the information I am discussing…I really did learn something in college! But sadly enough, I don’t have those tools at my disposal. Please forgive me)

Sure, music may be noticing this rift more than other magazine topics, most obviously due to sites like myspace, purevolume, and all of the blogs surfacing nowadays (woop woop!) So, does this mean music magazines will become obsolete? While part of me wants to wish this would never happen, another part of me is curious of the outcome. When observing people on the subways, I have honestly seen more Kindles than paperbacks, and more iPhones and Blackberries than Wall Street Journals. This isn’t news, though. Print media has been steadily declining for years (thus the reason for my extended unemployment and gritting my teeth each day working in retail). I am appaled at the lack of music magazines for “our scene.” Is this generation incapable of purchasing reading material? Or do we just not want to? I know we have money..We shop at AA and Urban, and suck down more frappucinos and RedBulls than any other group of human beings. We buy band merch, eat at Panera Bread, and stay out late chugging PBRs. Although most of us are broke, some of us have wealthy parents and/or trust funds. We can afford the magazines and subscriptions, we just don’t care enough.

This discourages me, though. Myspace is not the greatest outlet for scene-news. Unless you know the specific band you are seeking information about, it is not simple to view updated info on the industry or who has signed to a new label/who is breaking up/who had a tour coming up. Sure, AP exists, along with a few other magazines that easily do what I just mentioned, but those publications are not always accessible from most reading material retail outlets. Also, their websites are horrific; impossible to navigate, and just plain ugly. I feel like we are crying out for a music magazine with substance and not seeing results. As much as I believe that blogs are the future of print/online media, I do believe that some of these news outlets should converge their online content with written word, and bank off the profits. One can only hope…

(p.s. It smells like bacon in this airport and it’s making me a little nosh)

So to wrap this up, I’d like to announce to all of you that my good friend and phenomenal photographer, Siobhan O’Brien and I are starting an online music magazine. We plan to launch the first issue in June of this year. I will keep you posted with updates and other pertitent information as she and I progress closer to our goal that is our first issue. Just know that this is going to be huge. Huge. Yeah I said it twice.

About a dozen bros just crowded my cozy area at my gate, so I’m going to call it a day here on tumblr. I apologize again for posting dull-looking content from my phone, and don’t judge me for any spelling errors.

Peace out <3

The Friday Night Boys

Mon, 25 May 2009 02:36:00 -0400

I will admit that at first I was a bit hesitant on discussing this band in my blog. I have always considered myself a closet fan of The Friday Night Boys. My reasoning for this is not entirely clear, but it may have something to do with the fact that their album “That’s What She Said” is much too “boy-band-pop” for my personal taste. And as good as the title of that album may be, I cannot be seen listening to “Chasing a Rock Star.” The vocals of these tracks are a little overdone, the guitars are boring, and the lyrics are not easily relatable to anyone over 14. Wow I just realized how harsh that sounded. But there is something about this four-piece pop/punk band from Fairfax Virginia that catches my attention and keeps it.

I listen to “Give It Up” at least once a day (no joke) and the experience is nothing short of enjoyable. Andrew’s melodies are heavenly, and I cannot get over the genius incorporation of elements from different genres. I caught a few electronic beats in there, along with ambient guitar riffs and pop-punk chord progressions. This does not surprise me in the least, though. I would expect this display of talent from a band signed to Fueled By Ramen only two years after their formation. FNB was also featured on TRL’s On Your Radar in 2008- a show featuring unsigned bands with increasing online popularity. After being disappointed with their previous album release, I have not lost faith in these guys. Most of that can be attributed to a song of their new album (“Off The Deep End”, June 2009), titled “Permanent Heartbreak” that is currently up on the band’s myspace page. Although the lyrics sound a bit Mayday Parade-ish (ehh, not complaining), and the song is overall a strange mix of Fenix Tx and The Click Five, I would give it a 10/10 for being a catchy, classic, and pleasing pop song. I don’t want to say “radio-worthy” because that is almost an insult nowadays… but I would expect this single to see several iTunes purchases. The chorus is memorable and has a good hook. Synonymous with the pop-ish drum beats, the digital sounds and vocal effects are done tastefully and with simplicity. What impresses me most is the guitar solo, though. You don’t hear too many of those nowadays. I think someone decided it would be cool to replace them with breakdowns and dance segments. I didn’t get that memo.

The track titled “Stuttering” (also from the new album) is not as impressive. As much as I love the tone of the bass drum throughout the song, and the fact that Andrew’s melodies are catchy as hell, I cannot get on board with his whiny, whispery vocals. And stuttering in a song with the same title?… It has been done. As much as I would probably sing along if this song began to play in a public area or from my iTunes playlist, I will be honest when I say that if the entire album sounded like this, I would not buy it. I never judge a band for having experimental moments, though (Saves The Day- “In Reverie”, ftw!). I just wonder who is responsible for the slight alterations in their “sound” for this track… band or label? It’s always tough to tell.

All things considered, I am very excited to purchase and review this album when it is released on 6/9/09. I highly recommend you check them out if you haven’t already. Also- watch out for The Friday Night Boys on the ‘Let’s Make A Mess’ Tour with Hey Monday, This Providence, Stereo Skyline, and The Bigger Lights. Check their myspace for tour dates and venues, and purchase tickets online at http://heymondaymusic.com.

Esao Andrews. My favorite painter <3 FYI- he did all of the...

Sat, 23 May 2009 02:54:00 -0400

Esao Andrews. My favorite painter <3

FYI- he did all of the album artwork for both of Circa Survive’s CDs as well as the backdrops for their live performances. Art+Music=true love.

Thursday - “Standing On The Edge Of Summer” This...

Fri, 22 May 2009 01:35:33 -0400

Thursday - “Standing On The Edge Of Summer”

This song just seemed appropriate for me right now. I fell in love at first listen, and I will always be addicted to this band’s music. <3