Final Post On Blogspot: Blog Has Moved!

I am going to stop updating Musical Musings here on Blogspot. The blog has moved to the main TwoGroove site and can be found here.

So, change bookmarks to www.twogroove.com/blog and check out the site! The feed from the site appears above as well.

SXSW: Pendulum

You may have already heard of them, but I just have to share. Pendulum will be coming to Austin as part of SXSW. Previously a drum n' bass outfit, Pendulum has evolved into something completely different. They are now a high energy rock band that heavily incorporates their electronic roots. I have been waiting for a few years to see them and can't wait. They'll be at La Zona Rosa on March 21st.

Being that TwoGroove is so new, I didn't try to finagle a press badge out of the grip of SXSW organizers, but me and my trusty wristband will be there waiting to get in. If you get a chance, join me. Hope to see you there.

Past, Present, Future: Tori Sparks

Much like The Scarlets, Tori Sparks' music seems new but familiar at the same time. Her combination of smoky, sultry vocals and instrumental variety have been tried by many others; I'm here to tell you that Tori succeeds where they fall short. Check out the music in the little player below.

Basic Information

Members/Instruments: Steel and Gut String Guitars, Vocals. A rotating cast of characters plays upright and electric bass, drums, percussion, guitar, banjo, mandolin, accordion, violin, cello, steel, horns, and more…

Year Formed: 2004

1.Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?
I was born in Chicago and grew up in Florida. I played cello and piano when I was younger, but eventually switched to guitar. I started played shows when I was a student at Florida State, and while still in college I signed a recording contract with a small label based in Nashville. I’d already recorded an EP on my own, but the album I worked on with them was the first full-length record. They didn’t really release the album, per se – long story – and I luckily escaped what was a pretty bad deal. I stayed in Nashville because everyone I worked with was here, my band is here, and it’s an easy city to tour our of. I started touring heavily on my own, and have since been lucky enough to play all over the States and overseas.

2.Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?
After splitting with the label, I started my own record label and publishing company, and released the next album Under This Yellow Sun on my own. I’ve been lucky in that the album has had some success – lots of good press, college radio play, and a few bigger opportunities. The single “Cold War” was on the Paste New Music Sampler, and released on a compilation in Europe that has sold 30,000+ copies. I toured a lot, as usual, in support of that record while working on songs for the next one. I’m in the studio working on it now.

3.Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I’m in the process of recording my third album, The Scorpion in the Story. It’s a concept album about people’s tendency to act according to their natures – each song is a “story” about someone I met while on the road last year. It’s been a lot of fun to work on, it feels like a collection of characters all slowly coming to life. It’s almost like writing a book of short stories. This album is more adventurous, musically, than the last one, and featured some really amazing guest musicians. I’ll be releasing that album in June on Glass Mountain Records. I’ll be touring and would like to continue giving more guest lectures. That’s been very rewarding, and finally having a college booking agent has made those easier to come by.

In the near future, I’ll be performing at Folk Alliance in Memphis and be playing a number of shows in Austin and in other parts of Texas during SXSW.

4.Where can people find more of your music?
The internet is a great source, instant gratification. All of my albums can be found on iTunes and other download services, as well as on my website (ToriSparks.com), CDBaby.com, BestBuy.com, Target.com, Amazon.com, and many other websites. Certain Borders Books and Music stores carry physical copies of the CDs, as do a number of independent record stores around the country.

5.Anything you’d like to plug?
Mostly the new album! It will be released in June, and I’ll be touring heavily in the second half of 2009 and through all of 2010. Hope to see everyone on the road.

Past, Present, Future: Oak is Keeping

Add Cream to Queens of the Stone Age, mix with a Spoon. That's the recipe for Oak is Keeping's brand of rock. While reading the interview below, check out their music here on TwoGroove. You'll be hooked.

Their CD Release Party will be on April 25th at the Red Eyed Fly in Austin, TX. See you there!

Members/Instruments:
Shay Isdale – Vocals / Guitar
Mastin Kirksey – Drums
Zac Bogart – Guitar / backing vocals
Adam Keeling – Bass Guitar / backing vocals

Year Formed:
The band formed in 2007 by Shay and Mastin, but recorded and played under the name Dead Leaves. We’ve had a few different line-ups, but midway through 2008 we were joined by Zac and Adam and have been getting better ever since.

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?
Each member of the band has their own, distinct musical background & influences, but we all have one major thing in common… the love of dark, heavy melodic music. Driven by fuzzy guitar riffs and powerful bass & drums. And the desire to create this type of face melting rock has brought us together.

Shay and Mastin we actually band mates in a San Marcos alternative band called Plinko, who opened for the Burden Brothers a couple times. Zac and Adam are actually from Seattle, though they didn’t know each other when they lived there.

Our influences can range from Queens of the Stone Age to Radiohead and Cream to Led Zeppelin (which we have covered a song from each of those artists).

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?
Even though the band formed in 2007, we didn’t really start taking off until 08. So, we are still a pretty new band, but there is a lot of potential in this group. We’ve released two EPs, one in 2007 called Dead Leaves (we used our old name since most of the songs were written under that name) and one in late 2008 called MURDERdeathKILL. We are currently finishing up our first full length album with should be done in mid-March. We are going to have our CD release party in April, so look out for that!

3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
As I said above, we are finishing our first full length album very soon. Once that bad boy is done, we will push it and play as many shows as we can to support it. We plan on shooting a music video in the very near future to support a couple of the songs from the album.

In 5 years… I don’t see any limit to this band or it’s potential. The song writing has only gotten better, live shows keep improving, more fans keep showing up and damn is it fun to be in a rock and roll band. I only see Oak is Keeping moving up the chain.

4. Where can people find more of your music?
We, of course, have a myspace page like everyone else. . But you can also just go to, www.oakiskeeping.com. The website actually just directs you to the myspace page, but soon enough, we’ll get the real page full of juicy info!

We also have sites on CDfuse.com, facebook, reverbnation, do512.com, www.sonicbids.com/oakiskeeping and a few other social sites.

5. Anything you’d like to plug?
We have a busy SXSW weekend in March, so keep an eye out for us. We’ll update our site with show info as soon as we get everything locked down. We are also going to have our CD release party in April for our first full length album. It's going to be April 25th at The Red Eyed Fly.

SXSW Wristbands On Sale

Go get them!

A Little Business

I just wanted to take a minute to thank all of the great artists that have submitted their EPKs to be considered for a post here on the blog. I currently have a backlog of interesting interviews and excellent music to bring you; in the next couple of weeks I'll be posting more installments of Past, Present, Future. So if you're waiting for your interview to be posted, rest assured that I will get to it as soon as I can.

And if you want to make my backlog even bigger, send me an email at tyler[at]twogroove.com and I'd be happy to check out your music! Alternatively, you can submit your EPK through SonicBids or post your music to TwoGroove.

Past, Present, Future: Greg Gescha

Continuing our unplanned, 2-stop tour of Canadian singer/songwriters (Daniela Nardi was the other), I'm happy to present TwoGroove's interview with acoustic solo artist Greg Gescha. Check out some select tracks from Shakkei, Greg's recently released album. Stay tuned for a review, coming up when I can catch up on all the great interviews I have to share with you!

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?
I grew up around my parents music as well as my older brother’s records which they’d bring back from boarding school in Victoria when we lived in Trinidad & Tobago. In school there, I would act and sing in plays. We’d sing carols in the morning. Music was everywhere.

I learned guitar at age 9 and by 14 had started to write my own songs. I’d jam with friends throughout my school days and in high school, would enter talent contests.

From grade 12 and onward I’ve been involved with bands (original/cover). From ’92-’97 I put out 3 CD's with different bands. By 2000 I was concentrating more than ever on my own music which I’d been continuing on the sidelines.

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?
I released my 3rd solo CD in Nov’08. Had a CD release party w/a full band. Now I’d like to start playing around the city/province and get some exposure on that level as well as on the internet and radio.

3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I will strive to become a better musician/songwriter. Perhaps do more collaboration. Like to get a decent video done.
In 5 yrs. I’d hope to have a couple more CD;s out as well as have a name that’s somewhat recognizable in the music community here in Canada and abroad.

4. Where can people find more of your music?
I have my own website, greggescha.com and a myspace. I’m also on radio3.cbc.ca and soon to be on myspace.com/kerfmusic.

I recently signed up with Tunecore so I’ll have my music available for purchase through sites like Napster, Emusic and Amazon.mp3.

5. Anything you’d like to plug?
I’d like to plug in my car now cuz it’s freakin cold!!

Past, Present, Future: The Scarlets

You've heard it before...but you haven't. The Scarlets, hailing out of Seattle, have a familiar indie-rock sound but when you listen closely, it's all new. Seth Littlefield's smooth vocals layer nicely over a simple power trio arrangement. Read our interview below and be sure to check out the song "Pick a Card"; it is a perfect example of the group's personality.

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?

Well, Seth is currently teaching drum lessons to middle-schoolers…and yes, he’s our guitarist and vocalist. After many years of percussion college, trips to Cuba and transcriptions of Art Blakey solos, Seth discovered his new favorite musical outlet: indie-rock with subtle Latin undertones. Since Noah and Seth are family…it seemed like it would be a natural addition to put Noah’s many childhood drum lessons to use. It turns out, they paid off. Then… to glue the two together, The Scarlets were providential to find the final 60 degrees…Shaun Stangler. His bass work is a true reflection of the many years studying guitar and jazz sax.

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?

We feel that we are at the beginning of the “get your music out there” stage. We have a bunch of shows coming up while already having some very successful shows as of recently. We are very excited with our new material and still thoroughly enjoy playing what we released on our E.P. last year. After bashing out our new songs live for a little while, and narrowing down the list of songs, we plan on getting in the studio to finalize and release our first full length.

3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Like I mentioned earlier, a full length album. But also in the near future, we hope to find another multi-instrumentalist. Especially with the new stuff; we could definitely use another organ/piano/guitar person.

4. Where can people find more of your music?

You can always visit our EPK at: TheScarlets.com OR http://www.myspace.com/musicbythescarlets

5. Anything you’d like to plug?

We’ve got some shows coming up soon if you’re near Seattle!
Feb 20th @ The Mix
Mar 8th @ The Skylark

5 Rules for Playing Live

So I'm not a master of the music industry or anything, but I have been to more than my share of shows. There is a surplus of great music out there and the best music doesn't always rise to the top (Nickelback...). There are things you as a gigging musician can do about it. Once you've booked that gig, which is a pain in the ass in itself, make sure you do the following:

1) Promote.
So many bands focus solely on their sound. In a perfect world, the music would speak for itself; the best music would rise to the top. Merit alone doesn't work in politics and it certainly doesn't work in music. You have to get out there and post flyers, send invites via social networking sites, and generally promote the hell out of every show. If you are in Austin, be sure to get your event listed on sites like Do512.com.

Posting a note on MySpace is never enough. Network with the other bands (see number 3) and make sure everyone is doing their best to get people to the venue. Peoples' time is precious and you want it. You have to market yourself to convince them to stop listening to you on MySpace and actually get out to see you...especially when they have to deal with unfavorable parking situations.

2) Arrive early.
This really shouldn't need a lot of explaining. Arrive early to load in and chat with the sound guy and definitely catch the sets of bands before you. Arriving 15 minutes before your set isn't cool and reflects poorly on you. Venues and booking agents don't forget that stuff. For my guys, if we have a show at 11pm, we are all there by 9.

3) Know the lineup.
This is commonly overlooked. A lot of bands I see don't really have a good idea of who is on before and after them. Sure they know the name of the band, but that's it. Network with the other bands beforehand to promote and talk with them at the gig. If your styles mesh really well, figure out a way to play together again. I know it sucks to think about music from a business perspective, but the cliché really is true: It's not what you know, it's who you know.


4) Play like the place is sold out.
This is more of a personal preference, but it makes a difference. Say you promote your event for weeks and only 20 people are there. Sure you're bummed, but don't show it when you play. Your goal is to make sure those 20 people show up every time from now on. Playing like there are hundreds of people there will prepare you for when that actually is the case.

Part of playing like it is sold out is ignoring mistakes you make in your playing. Don't even acknowledge them, verbally or non-verbally. We can't tell the difference unless it was totally glaring, and even if it was a showstopper we'll forget soon enough.

5) Stay late.
Be the first one there and the last to leave. Chat with the other bands, the bartenders, the booking guy, fans, etc. Hand out some stickers or CDs to people you talk with. Be social. Another good reason to stay late is to pick up your cash (if you were lucky enough to get a paying gig). Don't wait until the next day or later; venues sometimes "misplace" the money.

So that's it; five simple things to help you out when playing live.

Past, Present, Future: Daniela Nardi

There is a reason that Daniela Nardi is being nominated for Best Female Jazz Vocalist at the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards this year. Check out our interview with her below!

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?

I asked my mom for piano lessons when I was a kid because I loved Donny Osmand. So from the age of 5, I was taking piano lessons through the Royal Conservatory here in Toronto. As the years went on, pop music started to evolve - along with my tastes. When I was 13 years of age, I saw The Police perform on Top of the Pops and I felt like I was watching the Messiah. I was mesmerized by the songs, by the voice, by the band. From that day, I knew what I wanted to do with my life - be a songwriter.

From that point on, I played in various bands from punk to pop to country to latin. Anything I could do to work on my chops. By this point I had learned to play bass guitar and was using the piano primarily as a writing instrument.

I was in a band that would have led me down the rock star path. We were close to be signed to a big label in the States. This was when I was 16. But the boys in the band (who were much older) thought I was too young to be on the road and lead that kind of life, so they kicked me out. Devastated as I was, I left music for 5 years. I worked various jobs even worked on getting my real estate license (which I do have). But the bug was still in me. Can't deny what is in the soul.

I went back to school, went to university and did my degree in music. Once I graduated I worked again in various bands and also worked as a composer for a few independent films. But that wasn't enough. I had to get my music out there. I embarked on my solo career in 2000 and haven't looked back.

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?

I recently released my second album entitled The Rose Tattoo after a four year hiatus. My mother was diagnosed with cancer four years ago so, I dropped everything to take care of her.

At the moment I am working on promotion and marketing for the record and getting some live dates together as well. We just released a video for the song "Dear EM", the record is being played on various radio throughout the world. We have had some good response in France, Germany, Netherlands and Australia so, I am looking to pursue those markets.

3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Though I am working on the promotion for this record, I am already in "thinking mode" for the next one. I am mulling around ideas of where I'd like the next record to go. I think that some electronic elements will still remain but I'd like to explore more acoustic, raw sounds, more space. I have some working titles, but I am a bit superstitious so I don't want to reveal too much too soon! But I will say that I'd like to explore more world sounds again, maybe more South Asian, sounds of India, I'd like to use the voice more, come off the piano, relinquish that role and just focus more on the voice. As for the writing, I'd like to cut right to the bone, try to open myself up more and make myself more vulnerable than I have been. I think it's time for more honesty in music. Back to what's real!

As for 5 years from now, I hope to be able to continue making records and grow as an artist, expand my audience globally. Be able to have a self sustaining independent label and production company for my music and for my husband's music (Ron Davis www.rondavismusic.com). But not only musically, I hope to be able to be a mother as well. A working mom! That'd be cool!

4. Where can people find more of your music?

My music can be bought from my website www.danielanardi.com as well on iTunes.

5. Anything you’d like to plug?

I have been nominated for Best Female Vocalist at the Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards to be held on April 24th, here in Toronto. The winners are chosen by popular vote so that means - YOU! Anyone from anywhere in the world can vote so you can go online to www.canadiansmoothjazzawards.com and vote for me.

Us independent artists really need the help and support of our audiences. We can't do it without you. Without label support, we're pretty much cranking the wheel on our own. So, having your helping hand is really appreciated. It's about community. We all have a part in getting the music out there. Me as the artist, you as the audience, us as the community.

Photographical Madness: Calm Blue Sea at Mohawk, Feb 7

Calm Blue Sea played at Mohawk along with Appleseed Cast last week. It was a great show; luckily we got some good pictures of Calm Blue Sea.

These shots were taken by Anne Marie Carson, check out her other work!

Canceling Shows is Bad

Went to go see Frantic Clam, Bankrupt and the Borrowers, Follow that Bird, and Cry Blood Apache at Trophy's on Friday night. Little did I know it would turn into one of the weirdest nights I've experienced in a while.

The bill was supposed to be three bands. It had been promoted that way for weeks but then Cry Blood Apache somehow snuck in at the last minute. I'd never heard of them and neither had anyone I talked to (granted my sample size was pretty small), but I was excited to see another band.

The addition of Cry Blood Apache meant that Follow that Bird had to go on at 9:30, which is damn early, especially at Trophy's. I was there around 9 and the place was almost empty. Thirty minutes go by and we hear through the grapevine that Follow that Bird canceled at the last minute. I guess there was some bad blood between the birds and Trophy's previously, and this didn't help smooth things over. On top of that, Cry Blood Apache was nowhere to be found. They were scheduled to start at 10:30pm; they didn't bother to show up until 10:40. That's just bad form.



And then the audio assault started. Let me preface this next part: I am a fan of creativity and experimentation. I think it helps push us forward as a whole. However, some sounds need to stay away from my ears. Cry Blood Apache creates those very sounds. Here's a taste. Compare it with their MySpace page.



Most of the crowd bolted for the back patio. It was so bad that people outside got mad when the door to Trophy's opened. They wanted it contained. After the merciful end of the noise, Frantic Clam took the stage about an hour late. After that, all was right in the universe; both Frantic Clam and Bankrupt and the Borrowers played great sets.

The bottom line here is twofold:
1) Don't cancel your shows. It sucks for the audience, it sucks for the other bands, it sucks for the venue, and it sucks for you. When you are headlining ACL Fest and they forget to sort your M&Ms by color, then you can go ballistic and refuse to leave your trailer. Venues can act childish at times and you pretty much have to suck it up, play the show, and learn from it.

2) Don't misrepresent yourself. Go listen to Cry Blood Apache on MySpace; I'll wait. Then check out the clip above and tell me if they are the same AT ALL. I understand there being a difference between your recorded and live material, but come on.

Oh, and a distant third...don't worry about what some guy posts on his blog. We're all full of shit anyway.

Album Review: Living The Dream, by Olio

Disclaimer: I am in no way qualified to be reviewing music. I'm just a guy with a blog and a passionate, debilitating love for music.

Olio is an interesting concoction. They span multiple genres, reflecting their multiple influences. Some of the genres touched in the 10 song release are pop, soul, funk, hip-hop, and straightforward rock. Their album Living the Dream pulls from all of those influences and comes away being a little disjointed, but that doesn't mean it doesn't rock. Truth be told, I am hooked on the very first track "Here We Go". It is a great opener and evokes a hip hop summer jam, especially with Young Crew helping out with the vocals.

A few tracks in you get to "Soccer Mom", a pop-punk song where the group professes their love of...you guessed it, a soccer mom. They're saying what you're thinking and it's a great song that doesn't take itself seriously. Its very catchy and pulls from a completely different set of influences that "Here We Go".

"Living the Dream" combines soulful backing vocals with rock and is an uplifting closing to the album.

A couple songs like "Bad Apple" and "Four Letter Word" do fall a little flat. The lyrics on these two songs come across as a little cliché ("Bad Apple, rotten to the core" and "You make love a four-letter word come to mind). The musicianship is always high quality however; all of the songs sound full and have great dynamics. Given the full sound, I think it is pretty safe to say that each of Olio's three members is a jack of all trades. You'll hear lead vocals from each as well as a lot of variety in instrumentation.


As odd as it sounds, the variety is the common theme. The trio consists of a DJ, film composer, and music/arts director and each gets his time to shine. There is a definite level of comfort with each genre they explore and it was a pleasure to listen to the album. I recommend it to anyone who wants something different, but has no idea what that is.

Check out their music below. Trust me, you'll be looping "Here We Go".

Photographical Madness: Trophy's on Feb 6th

Some of my shots from last night at Trophy's.

It was a very odd night; more on that later.

Bankrupt and the Borrowers

Bankrupt and the Borrowers

Frantic Clam

Cry Blood Apache

Changes to Musical Musings

We're making some cool changes to Musical Musings. First, we've finished most of the formatting at www.twogroove.com/blog. I'm now using WordPress instead of Blogger and will be publishing directly to twogroove.com; the Blogger feed will still work. Second, we're adding some new gadgets. As I get used to WordPress, you might see some things coming and going.

In the meantime, check out the post on Bum Parking below and don't worry if things seem out of whack for a few days.

Bum Parking

As many of you know, parking in downtown Austin is a pain in the ass. However, I was surprised to find out that not everyone is aware of bum parking. Here is a summary.

When you are driving around, refusing to pay exorbitant prices for parking, you may notice some shady yet enterprising fellow frantically waving you into a spot.

He may or may not look like this.

At this point, you need to make a snap judgment on very little information. You need to determine if the spot is actually one of Austin's free parking spots at that particular time of day. If not, prepare to be towed by some aggressive bastard with a truck waiting in the shadows. If it is a free spot, does the bum look like a Good Bum or an Evil Bum?

Good Bums and Evil Bums can be the same person, depending on the amount of money you give them for "helping" you find a spot. Pay a Good Bum the right amount (who knows what that is) and he will watch your car for the evening and fend off all sorts of rabble. Pay a Good Bum too little and he may or may not turn into an Evil Bum. Pay an Evil Bum the right amount and he will leave your car alone. Pay him too little or, holy shit, nothing and he will go to town on your car. It's a fun guessing game.

So that's Bum Parking for the uninitiated. To be clear: I don't advocate one way or the other. The Bum Parking system can be a vast improvement over "Park Here In This Dark-Ass Lot And Leave Your Neatly Folded $7 In The Metal Kiosk Thing - We May Or May Not Tow You Anyway". The parking garages are lit and protected, but also can be expensive and damn annoying to exit at peak times.

Surely, with such a focus on Austin as the Live Music Capital of the World, we can come up with a better way to get into and out of the city to see a show. Until then, strike up a nice conversation with your chosen bum, spot him a few bucks, thank him for his "service", and cross your damn fingers.

Past, Present, Future: Escaped Zoo Animals

Combining laid back Southern California style with a Kinks-esque vocal quality, I present Escaped Zoo Animals. Formed just nine months ago in Riverside CA, they just released their self-titled full length album in January. Check out our interview below; it sounds like they stumbled into becoming and band and are riding that wave.

Favorite Tracks (player at bottom of post):
English 403
Model UN

Members/Instruments:
Travis Coover - vocals, guitar
Chris Menezes - guitar, percussion
John Bennett - keys, guitar, percussion
Andrew Ballenger - bass
Daniel Menezes - drums, percussion

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?

Escaped Zoo Animals is a collection of friends, some of whom have known each other since grade school. Though we had played together in the past, nothing serious had ever come to fruition. In early 2008, I (singer/guitarist Travis Coover) finished grad school, and wished to record a few songs I had written while in school. I approached now guitarist Chris Menezes about laying down these tracks, and thus, the nucleus of Escaped Zoo Animals was formed. Initially functioning as a "project," Chris and I asked Chris' brother Daniel to play drums on the demo. This later expanded, calling upon the talents of keyboardist John Bennett, and bassist Andrew Ballenger.

After finishing the demo, we posted the songs online, not knowing what to expect. The reaction, was the inquiry of many as to when we were going to play live. It was at this moment that we realized we were officially a band. From that point, we played many shows around Riverside California, fine-tuning our live performance. In October, we entered the studio to record what is now our first full-length, self-titled album. The primary influences of the band are Belle & Sebastian, Paul Simon, The Kinks, The Zombies and The Velvet Underground.

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?

At this point, we are coming out of the gates, so to speak. Though only having existed for roughly nine months, we have already released a full length, and are ready to gain as much exposure as possible. Currently, the plan is to play pretty much any, and everywhere.

3. Future: What's coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In the near future, we plan on promoting our new album across the country, and hopefully, the globe. In five years, we'd like to be able to be doing this as a sole priority. Essentially, we'd like this to be our job.

4. Where can people find more of your music?

People can listen to our music on our page at www.myspace.com/escapedzooanimalsmusic . If you like what you hear, you can buy our record on itunes, there's a link to the store on our myspace page.

5. Anything you'd like to plug?

Check out four songs from our record (now on itunes) at www.myspace.com/escapedzooanimalsmusic. Also you can peep a remix of one of our tracks at www.myspace.com/frankielideo.

Trophy's on Friday

Looking forward to this show... I've seen Bankrupt and the Borrowers and Frantic Clam, but never Follow That Bird. I've heard positive things about them; this should be a good one!

Past, Present, Future: metheus Bound

Here's out next interview, with Toronto's metheus Bound. Mix up some punk, funk, blues, and jazz and you'll have some idea of what mB brings to bear. The sound drifts between all those genres but always has a consistent feel. James Everett's smooth voice floats over light guitar riffs and funky but subtle basslines. Definitely worth checking out their latest release, Stirring the Insides. In the meantime, read our interview below!

Members/Instruments:

James Everett – Guitar/Voice

Ryan Boiselle – Guitar

Ben Miller – Bass

Chino DeVilla - Drums

Year Formed: 2006


1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?

We were all students of Humber College’s jazz program. Ben, Ryan and myself have known each since day one and were great friends all through school. Though we all really enjoyed playing jazz it was the exposure to other music (world, fusion, funk) that really got us all excited. We came together around the music I write, but it still felt like it belonged to all of us in a sense. Everyone brings a lot to say musically through this band. Chino joined later and when we first played with him it was an instant “YES! Keep him”. He was the perfect last piece to the puzzle.

2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?

We’re now in a place where we’ve come together musically, are developing rapidly that way, and now are trying to pull our business sense along with us. Meeting with publicists and talking to other artists. We have some of our music in talks to be synced and are playing gigs trying to promote the album we released a few months ago (“Stirring the Insides” 2008). The big thing for us now that we have that bulk of work out and available is to continue to hit the fans with small packets of quality. We have an EP in the works and some videos we’ve been cooking up for ye ole YouTube.

3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years we will have been touring and releasing more music. The audience for us is harder to build and reach, but they are loyal to the end and will hopefully stay with us for a lifetime. We’re not interested in huge explosive entrances because they usually equate to quick fizzle outs. We’re staying away from the big labels and trying to make a real “fan” base, not an “oh my god, I love that song!” base. Not that a big label is necessarily bad, but if it’s between being nobodies with a choice about what we do and somebodies without, we’re content to be nobodies. This isn’t reflective of a lack of ambition; we just won’t compromise the music. We are ridiculously excited when we hear about fans getting into the music and we are seriously invested in connecting with these people and growing them in numbers.

4. Where can people find more of your music?

Right now the album is on iTunes and CD Baby or you can listen to songs off it on our site (metheusbound.ca), our Myspace (myspace.com/metheusbound), or at Sonicbids (sonicbids.com/metheusbound). All our sites have one or two tracks different from each other, so you can actually hear quite a bit of us. We’re going to be posting new songs up on YouTube very soon so try searching metheus Bound next time you’re on it and you may catch a clip or two!

5. Anything you’d like to plug?

We’re doing a show on February 21st with a great band called Oceanship at Holy Joe’s in Toronto. Otherwise just keep your eyes to the site to see what’s coming up. We sell the album for $10 at shows, so that’s another perk of checking it us out.

Back from Cali

Can't complain when this is the view from your room.

Olio sent their album to me last week and and I have to say I am both impressed and confused at the same time. They go from Spanish guitar to hip-hop summer jam to soul to genuinely funny pop rock and back again over the course of 10 tracks. Check back for my review of their album Living the Dream.

In the meantime, check out their MySpace and especially the song "Here We Go". They've got a video up over at that "YouTube" site.

Past, Present, Future: Kiven

We got a chance to interview California-based band, Kiven. This is a new feature for our blog, a short and sweet interview with an up and coming band in sort of a Past, Present, Future format. Look for more coming soon and check out Kiven's music here!

Members/Instruments:
Tyler Demorest - Vocals Guitar
Ted Boldt - Drums
Billy Yarbrough - Keys/Utility Man
Danny Schnair - Lead Guitar/Vocals
Colin Fitzgibbon - Bass/Vocals

Year Formed: 2008

1. Past: What is your musical background? What has led you to this point?


I started playing music in 7th grade and have been in a collection of bands since then, mostly playing with Ted the drummer. I've studied jazz guitar, rock, blues, and i have extensive knowledge in lead singer syndrome...cause I'm the best...at everything...obviously... The rest of the band are all very talented musicians as well, and have been studying their instruments for quite some time. Ted (the drummer) has wanted to be a front man since he was 7 but chose the wrong instrument so he is definitely the brains behind most the creative (crazy) wardrobes and live operations which make our shows fun, Danny studies jazz guitar at USC and simply rocks it, Billy (Ubility / Utiility Bill) can pretty much play it all... and does when we need him to, and Colin is a funky bass player who you can hear strutting his stuff at your neighborhood Guitar Center.


2. Present: Where are you at now in your career? What are you currently working on?


Kiven is a relatively young band, but we have accomplished a great deal. We made the Cover of the "No Cover" magazine distributed throughout Southern California, landed a spot in OC Music-Fest and the RO5K, headlined multiple shows, sell merch, rock the stage, steal hearts... all that good stuff. We are currently just working on making our live show something to remember and writing a bunch of new music for our up and coming album.


3. Future: What’s coming up for you? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?


We are working on setting up a tour around California and a bit of Nevada right now and yeah I guess the only other milestones are finishing our CD and rocking your face with sweet melody at every show. I would say in 5 years we will be on our second tour with a record label behind us blowing our audiences mind with a crazy live performance, and of course great looks...


4. Where can people find more of your music?


Our music will be up on all those internet downloading services (iTunes, Amazon...) shortly, however if you want to get a copy of our newly recorded song "Run" go to www.reverbnation.com/kivenmusic and sign up for our mailing list. All members of the mailing list will get a free download of the song as soon as its done in the next few weeks. And hey if you don't want the song, join the mailing list anyway cause we give out great deals on merchandise and so forth to our outstanding fans.


5. Anything you’d like to plug?


Nothing really other than thanks for reading the interview, join our mailing list, come to a show, and don't forget to watch the famous "Chuck Corris" updates on our MySpace page as often as we put them up. Thanks for all your support!

Tapes and More Tapes

101x, Austinist, and Beggars Group will present Minnesota rockers Tapes n’ Tapes at The Parish this Thursday, 1.29. The band has been compared to The Pixies and The Pavements and has received much recognition on popular sites such as Gorilla vs. Bear. The band’s latest album, Walk It Off, received a three star review in Rolling Stone and their tunes were described as, “songs that form from rant to riff with ADD energy.” Tapes n’ Tapes’ abrasive guitar riffs, drunken drum beats, Modest Mouse styled screams and Violent Femmes like whispers are sure to leave an impression at the intimate 6^th street venue. The show will kick off at 9pm with opening acts Harlem and White Light. Cover is $16.

Photographical Madness: Small Talk and DJ Psych

Check out these great shots of Small Talk and DJ Psych, submitted by Rachel. Check out her Flickr page for more information and more awesome photos.

Focus Group "EP" Review

Disclaimer: I am in no way qualified to be reviewing music. I'm just a guy with a blog and a passionate, debilitating love for music.

I'm going to just say it: Focus Group is something that is best experienced live. Distilling their show into a passive, audio-only medium is almost unfair. Their EP (titled EP) is a subdued version of the group and while it comes together very well in a few areas, lacks the personality of their very entertaining live show.

If you are unfamiliar with Focus Group, then the first track "Very Truly Yours" will determine whether or not you listen to the rest of the songs. An interesting if low-key collection of brass, synth, and vocal sampling, this track is preparing you for what's to come.

The majority of the release keeps to this formula of downbeat, intelligent music. Even if somewhat minimal synth-based brass-infused music isn't usually your cup of tea, you will be nodding your head along with the beat. This is most true with the second and fourth tracks. Still, I would like to see a little more variety in this release to show off the groups talents.

Like I said, a fan of Focus Group's live show and I love their more upbeat songs. Luckily, smack dab in the middle of the EP is "White Folk is Freaky". This track is right up my alley and expect many others' as well. Funny, well-used samples combined with a breakbeat feel really make this one stand out. This track provides a great window into the personality, talent, and humor that make Focus Group a must see instead of a must hear experience.

Be sure to check them out live with Falcon Buddies on January 29th at Triple Crown.

Dallas is not Austin

So I am stuck in Dallas this week. In fact, I have not been outside since Monday morning thanks to meetings. That means no shows and not a lot of time to post fun things to the blog. Corporate America tends to sap my creativity.

BUT, stay tuned. We've got a slew of interviews, album reviews, pictures, and other fun crap coming up very soon. First out the gate should be a review of Focus Group's new EP.

Presenting Mr. John Legend

www.johnlegendaustin.eventbrite.com