Hard Announcements |
SPOTLIGHTJune / July 2007by Paul Autry http://www.myspace.com/spotlight_music Earlier this year, I began the long overdue task of putting my music collection in order. This was something I really had to do because, with everything that I have, some of it ends up getting buried and I don't write about it. Since I've been doing a little spring cleaning...so to speak...I found a few releases that are a little older that I never wrote about. Unfortunately, some of those bands are no longer together. However, there's one band that I'm glad to see is still going strong...and that's Australia's Glister. They sent me a four song EP, "Queensland," way back when and I think it's about time I told you about it. I believe I first heard this band on a compilation album and I liked 'em enough to get in touch. Anyway, this release is the kind of music that I really enjoy, which is a combination of power pop and rock. Maybe a little punk in a Go-Go's sort of way, especially with the song "Waking Up." I can listen to this song over and over again and I would never get tired of hearing it. It's an upbeat song that's catchy as hell. "Spacedog" is another favorite of mine. It's such a "dreamy" song...really, really cool. I'm sure the band has gotten a lot better since this release. But, do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of "Queensland." One listen and I guarantee you're gonna be a fan. http://www.glister.com.au Lou Dog's current album is called "Strokin' The Sugar." But, it's his previous effort, "61 Old Depot," that I'd like to talk about since that's the release I have sitting in front of me. I'm not exactly sure what label you'd wanna slap on to his music. As I was listening to this album, a number of things came to mind...the swagger of Keith Richards, rock (of course), maybe a little punk...at times it's very raw, kind of a garage sound...and I mean that in a good way. I heard a little Bob Dylan. I was really diggin' on this album for the first few tunes. By track five, "She's Trying To Hide," which was a very mellow song, I started to hit the skip button. The next track, "Vertical Sea," picked up the pace a little better. But, it wasn't until the track after that, "The Birth Of Cool," when the energy started to flow again and the rest of the album finished off with a bang. I can honestly say that this album gave me a great deal of satisfaction and I'm sure it can do the same thing for you. 7th Layer is a theatrical hip hop band that I've written about before and I won't hide the fact that I'm a huge, huge fan. My first experience with 'em was back in 2005 when I happened to stumble into a show. I had no idea who they were. But, I was so impressed with their performance, I decided to stick around until they were finished so I could talk to them and introduce myself. I caught the band in action once again the following year and the year after that. More recently, they were doing an all age show at a somewhat local venue and, of course, I managed to make my way to that show. Once again, I was impressed...and when 7th Layer members Filth and Mal H-Vock invited me to attend the release party for their respective solo albums, come hell or high water, I knew I had to be there because, when these albums dropped, it was gonna be one hell of a party...and I was right. There was a lot of people on the stage that night. Some I knew, some I didn't know, some I got to know. It was all a blur because the night went by way too fast. It was non-stop energy from the word go. My only regret is that I didn't have enough time to introduce myself to everyone there. But, I'm sure we'll meet again at a future show. As for the CD reviews, I'll start off with Mal H-Vock's "United States Of Terrorism," which really caught me off guard. H-Vock has a lot to say here. He's droppin' some serious political bombs and, when it comes to getting his point across, he doesn't mess around. Tracks like "American Dream," "God Bless America," "Infiltration" and "Legalize" are sure to get your attention in a big way. He also throws down some tunes that are great for the stage, tracks like "When We Roll," "XXL" and "1 For The Fat Kids," which are sure to get the party off to a good start. Thrown into the mix is an acoustic number, "Suffocate," and a hardcore rock/metal rap tune, "My Insanity." There's also an interesting cover of the N.W.A. classic, "Fuck The Police," which starts off with some original verses before going into the tune as we all know it. This was a really good addition to the album. When it's all said and done, there's 21 tracks here for you're listening pleasure and, believe me, it's not an album that's gonna get old anytime soon. Next up is Filth's "It Happens," which goes in a totally different direction than Mal H-Vock's release in every way, shape and form. Filth is more laid back and I think he put a lot of his personality into this album. After a quick introduction, "Hello Eerbody," he goes into "Guy On The Couch," which is exactly the kind of guy Filth is. This is probably his theme song. Then he rolls into "Sick," which has a kick ass chorus. "Medicated" is an upbeat tune and "Deadtime Stories" could've been a 7th Layer song because it continues the tradition of horror inspired lyrics. In fact, he does use the same beat of 7th Layer's classic "Haunting" on "Fable Turned Myth." Throw in a poem and a drunken rant or two and you have "It Happens." When you listen to the album as a whole, there's a lot of variety, which goes to show just how creative the "guy on the couch" can be. If you ask me which one is better, I can't give you an honest answer because I like both of them for different reasons. If I really had to pick one, I'd probably tell you to check out 7th Layer's "Redeeming Faith," which was the album that introduced me to what these two guys had to offer...and if you dig this album...and I'm sure you will...you'll have a better understanding of what 7th Layer....solo or otherwise...is all about. Seriously, the solo stuff is great. But, when these two guys come together, it's just the greatest thing in the world. When they throw down, you either join the party or get the hell out. It's as simple as that. Be sure to check out their MySpace pages to hear some of what these albums have to offer and, if you like what you hear...and I'm sure you will...contact the band directly to pick up your copy. http://www.myspace.com/malhavock A lot has happened to 3 Kisses since their interview appeared on this website, which you can still find in the "Voice Of The Underground" section. They appeared on a highly successful episode of ABC's "Wife Swap," they added some new members and they released a new CD, "Nut Job." On their previous effort, "It All Comes Down To Me," which was also their second release, 3 Kisses were still trying to find out their sound. What they put down on record wasn't exactly what you would hear during a live performance. It was like two different worlds. However, 3 Kisses is a band that is constantly moving forward and they've really come into their own on "Nut Job." They've managed to capture their live performance sound a lot better this time around...and they still write songs that seem made for the stage, where audience participation would increase the overall vibe of the song if you know what I mean. Tunes like "Let's Dance," "Nut Job" and "Wake Up" are perfect examples. When you hear these songs, you can almost picture yourself in the crowd shouting the chorus back at the band. One of my favorite tracks on the album...and another good example of a song that seems to be written for the stage...is "Girls Night," which has the catchy "I wanna get laid" chorus. I think this is the 3 Kisses signature song...Kiss has "Rock 'N' Roll All Nite" and 3 Kisses has "Girls Night." As an added bonus, there's two different versions of "Swapping Wives," which was inspired by their appearance on ABC. The first version is a straight forward rock song. The second version, which is the one I actually like the most, is an acoustic version, which is really cool because you get to hear a side of vocalist Tish Meeks that you don't normally hear. I wouldn't mind hearing 'em do some additional acoustic tunes. That might be a good idea for their next album. Anyway, they're a hard working band and they're really worth checking out. So, be sure to pick up a copy of "Nut Job" and go crazy. http://www.3kisses.com Anthropia's "The Ereyn Chronicles: Part 1 - The Journey Of Beginnings" is an epic, progressive, fantasy rock album that's sure to go down in musical history as a classic. This concept album, the first part in a planned trilogy, comes off like a huge metal opera...there's just so much going on within the music, you need to listen to it a few times before you're able to take it all in. It's almost like you're listening to a movie...and I know this might sound kind of cheesy to say, but, I'm thinkin' "Lord Of The Rings" here. In fact, I'd even go as far to say that what "Lord Of The Rings" did for film, Anthropia does for music. My only hope is that the second and third part of the trilogy will have the same passion and beauty as this release. This is an exceptionally strong album and the rest of the story, when it's told, will have to be just as strong...and since I mentioned the story, I'm sure you're wondering what it's all about, right? Well, in order to explain it to you, I'll quote directly from the press material that came with this release. The fictional universe of Ereyn, ruled by Queen Lunne, has sunk into chaos and disarray. The old ways have been forgotten, and the road to redemption...an ancient wisdom that has been buried for ages...is lost. A situation exacerbated by minions of the dark counterworld Empyr. With aid, the main character, the young Amryl, must search for the all knowing oracle in order to save his misguided people. However, he soon becomes a victim of a near-fatal shipwreck and is separated from his search party. His boat is in ruins and so is his life: Amryl suffers from amnesia and can’t remember who he is. Suddenly, an expansive search for truth and knowledge transforms into a mission of self-discovery. “The hero of the story is not a mighty warrior and doesn’t wield a mighty sword,” explains Hugo (Hugues Lefebvre, the mastermind behind Anthropia). “He’s young and naďve. He doesn’t know a lot of things about the world, but by the end of the story, that all changes.” Part one ends as our soon to be hero thinks his journey and existence are over. What's in store for him? As if we're watching an elaborate Saturday morning matinee cliffhanger...we'll have to wait to find out. http://www.anthropia.org When it comes to progressive metal...let me tell you one thing...the length of an album doesn't really matter. A lot of the releases that I have in my collection are more than an hour long. They're huge in every sense of the word. Sure, when it's done right, that "epic" sound is mind blowing...even when it has a running time that's over an hour. Some of your favorite albums are like that...and, yeah, there's a few like that which float my boat. However, Shining Star's "Enter Eternity" isn't one of them. They go through 10 songs in 46 minutes. Yeah, they don't waste any time in getting your attention, they get right to the point and, what's really great about this album is the fact that it's enough to get your attention and it leaves you hungry for more. So, you know you'll end up listening to it on a regular basis to get your fix and when they come out with a new album, you're gonna eat it up. In my opinion, that's a brilliant move because, even though you've heard this style of music before, Shining Star makes it sound fresh and exciting because they don't blow their entire load on a single album. So, I guess it's true what they say...sometimes less is more. Don't believe me...go find out for yourself. http://www.nightmare-records.com 2000 - Radio Free Earth I'm kind of suprised that I haven't heard of Sunspot before. They've been around for quite some time and they have a few releases floating around out there, which I've listed above. Unfortunately, I only have a four song sampler CD to judge them by and, as I've mentioned before, that's not really enough to form an honest opinion of the band. Although, in this case, I think this disc has some of their best material and it's enough to get me interested. "Eat Out My Heart" was a neat little, rockin' tune that started off the disc. "Neanderthal" was pretty catchy. "Scott Bakula," which is a crowd favorite...or so I've heard...is probably my favorite track. It's about that guy who appeared in the television show "Quantum Leap." It's a very lyrically clever song...I can totally understand why people like this one. The disc ends with "Summer Day," which is an energetic rock song. If the rest of their music is as good as this, well, I'd suggest checking them out. I can't really suggest an album since I haven't heard any of them as a whole. They'd probably want you to check out the new album. Although, if you want the "Scott Bakula" song, which is a song that's worth having, then "Cynical" would be the album for you. Every now and then I hear a band that I can really get into. But, when it comes time to talk about 'em, there's really not a whole lot to say. Numa is such a band. Basically, they're a straight forward rock band with enough groove to keep your head bangin' and that's pretty much all there is to say. I only heard a few tunes. But, after hearing their material, I think it would be safe to say that they're probably a very good live act. They remind me of a heavier version of a band called Poppeacocks, which some of you may remember from back in the day. I think Numa is a band that's gonna go on to bigger and better things. So, it's probably a good idea to check 'em out and keep your eye on 'em because I'm sure we'll be hearing a lot more from them in the future. I had the pleasure of meeting Rew when she was known as Black Flamingo. She was one of the coolest musicians I have ever met. Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to see her perform. A short time later, she changed her recording name to Rew and released a most brilliant, ten song release titled "That's Rite," which is my current favorite release. First of all, she has a rather unique voice that's cotton candy sweet. I simply love listening to her sing. She calls her music "punktry," because she "wears her heart on her sleeve and she sings truthfully.," which I couldn't agree with more. There's nothing fake about her music and what I like about it, well, it has a raw vibe that flows through it. Not every note is perfect and I think that adds to the attraction. Part rock, part punk...perfect example would be the opening track, "Think About," which will put you in a dancin' mood. It's not a "sit still" kind of song. "The More I" seems like a rather simple song...but...it's one that you won't be able to get out of your head. My favorite track on the album is "U Suck," which reminds me a lot of Mary Prankster. This song has a lot of attitude. Another favorite is "Skeletonz," which you can hear on her MySpace page. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the video clips as well. After I saw them, I made a promise to myself...before I leave this planet...I'm gonna see Rew live. If I can do that, I can die happy. Having said that...don't you think it's time to give her music a listen? http://www.luvrew.com 10 Questions With Adriane Hornung of Wraven Design Paul Autry Please introduce yourself and give us a little backround history. Adriane Hornung: My name is Adriane Hornung. I am the sole artist/photographer for Wraven Design. I started photographing and working with bands about 5 years ago at a club called The Why're, since then I've worked with a long list of extremely talented musicians and also branced out into modeling photography as well. Paul Autry Plug your current project and any previous ones you'd like people to know about. Adriane Hornung: I'm currently in "pre-production" of sorts on a photo series due out around Halloween...classic monster movie type characters done in a pin up style photography much like the series on the Seven Deadly Sins that I put out last November. I'm still doing some casting for a few parts (see my MySpace blog for details (http://www.myspace.com/adrianewraveninc). Musically, I just wrapped up the album art, promo material and t-shirt designs for Sherri Mullen's up-coming album, "Fearless," which she recently recorded with Jason Rubal of Seventh Wave Studios. Also, I've been working with Deja'Vudoo on press/promo material for the past few months and shooting hundreds of photos for Hierosonic and Bella Morte. Paul Autry How would you describe your musical style? Adriane Hornung: Eclectic. I know everyone says that.. but for me it holds true… I like a lot of local music.. Hierosonic being my favorite, Deja Vudoo, Sherri Mullen, The Underwater.. a band from Charlottesville VA called Bella Morte – amazing! Check them out.. as far as national acts, Incubus, Deftones, Tool, Fiona Apple, Darren Hayes, The Dresden Dolls…everything from Prodigy to Sarah McLaughlan. Paul Autry Name your musical influences and explain why they influenced you. Adriane Hornung: Lately, Hierosonic has influenced me a lot...mostly the music. But, I also used Mike Stang as a model in the "Seven Deadly Sins" shoot. He'll also be doing the Halloween shoot. Ben Stewart may be joining the project too. But, it's still up in the air. His amazing lyrics have definitely influenced a lot of my more moody/brooding pieces lately. Also, Incubus and Tool have themes that show up in a lot of my work. Paul Autry Name your poison. Adriane Hornung: Fuzzy Navel’s in Tina’s Hot Tub! Paul Autry What are your thoughts on file sharing? Adriane Hornung: National acts make way more money from concert sales than album sales. So, it's really all the execs that loose money...and I think the structure of the industry on that level could stand to loose money and, in doing so, some of their hold on what bands/artists actually get national exposure. Local bands usually benefit more from downloading/burning than they loose. Most of the time I'd say download a few tracks and then buy the CD if you like it. I've become very close to the financial workings of bands in the past few years...and putting out CD's is EXPENSIVE. After pre-production, recording, album art and photos, duplication and promoting the release, most bands aren't really making much money off of albums either. Regardless of how you got the music, go to shows and support the bands...buy tickets and merch and let the musicians know when you really appreciate their art. That also might help make up for nicking a track or two. Paul Autry What are some of your interests outside of music? Adriane Hornung: Fine art...in addition to music industry art. I also paint, draw and sculpt (when I have the time). I also have recently gotten into videography. I shot a video for Anthony Reigle of Deja'Vudoo's last band...Whisper's song "Outside The Door," and really fell in love with the medium. I'll be shooting a video (or a few) for Deja'Vudoo soon and will also be making that an available on a case by case basis...videos take A LOT of time and effort...as soon as I pick up some new equipment. I also like Ghosthunting in Gettysburg and have a serious Buffy fixation. Most importantly, I love spending time with my two year old son, Kieran. Paul Autry Plug someone else you think people should check out and explain why you think we'd like them. Adriane Hornung: Hierosonic. Hands down, the best thing to come out of Central Pennsylvania (and I'm a Fuel and Live fan). These guys will not disappoint. If their live show doesn't get your ass moving, you're dead. Deja'Vudoo, Sherri Mullen and Bella Morte are all very, very much worth checking out as well. Paul Autry What have you done that you're most proud of and what do you hope to accomplish in the future? Adriane Hornung: The Seven Sins where my first solo Gallery Exhibit. It was an amazing experience that I hope to continue doing once a year or so for as long as I can. I also really enjoy working with my current clientele and look forward to continuing our working relationships and friendships...they’re a great group of people. Paul Autry Final comments? Adriane Hornung: Never underestimate the power of presentation. Your CD might not get picked up and listened to if something on the outside doesn’t catch people’s eye first. Support local music and they will support you! Thank you so much for having me! http://www.wraven.com Before I wrap this issue up, I'd like to throw one more band at you, The Applicators. I found their debut album, What's Your Excuse," in a used video store of all places. I never heard of the band before. But, I figured I would take a chance because, worse comes to worse, I can always sell it back to the store if I didn't like it or I could trade it for something else that I wanted. However, as soon as I heard the album, it became a permanent addition to my collection because the music was...simply put...kick ass. We're talkin' raw, in your face, old school punk...and it's an all girl band on top of it. Oh, man...this is fuckin' great. They tear through twelve songs in under half an hour. This is what punk music is supposed to sound like. It just doesn't get any better than this. "What's Your Excuse" was released in 2001 and I thought that would be a bummer because I figured the band wouldn't be together anymore. To my suprise, I found the band on MySpace, which is a good thing. Now I can point you in the right direction and you can get a copy of this disc for yourself...and if you know what's good for you, that's exactly what you'll do. In fact, now that you're done reading this column, click on the link below and go introduce yourself to the music of The Applicators. You can thank me later. http://www.myspace.com/theapplicators |