What is the significance behind the number 930?

Becca: September 30 is a big day in our family, so that’s how we came up with the name.

Matt: Yeah, my and Becca’s birthday is September 30 and our other twin siblings were also born on the same day 9 years later!

In your family, which set of twins do you think has the strong twin bond? Any examples?

Matt: The other twins are only 6, so they haven’t really gotten to a point where they realize that they have that kind of connection, but I’m sure they will pretty soon. Then we’re really in trouble! (laughs)

Becca: Matt and I have definitely been in situations where we can just look at each other and be like “Yeah…right? Yeah” and know exactly what the other is thinking. We spend a lot of time together too so I think that’s part of it. Even though we don’t like ALL the same things like music and hobbies – Matt is more into comedy and acting and stuff than I am – we’re still pretty similar in a lot of ways.

930 is a band that actually write their own songs, who writes the lyrics and who writes the music?

Becca: We both do, although I write more of the lyrics. I also write songs that are not necessarily right for 930 because they’re more acoustic or quiet, but I really like being creative and expressing myself with music.

Matt: But we both come up with ideas for songs and talk about it.

What generally inspires you to write a song?

Becca: It can really be anything, although I think songwriting is a really great way to express an emotion – good or bad.

Matt: Right, like when you’re upset about something, it helps to have a release and a way to tell your side of things. And with a song like “Live It Up,” we were inspired by just that happy, exciting party atmosphere – like, “Yeah, let’s have a great time!”

930 are big supporters of the anti-bullying campaign, what made you get involved with this?

Becca: Matt and I both had to deal with a lot of bullying in middle school. So we wrote the song “Get Out of My Way” as way to say like “You don’t get to tell me if I’m cool or not.” It was important to us to tell other kids that bullying and teasing really hurts.

Matt: Right, and we know how hard it is to stand up for yourself and have self-esteem when you’re being bullied. So we wanted to have a way to say to other kids in the same situation, “It’s OK, be proud of who you are.”

As twins who double as musicians and actors, who are your some of your role models in each category?

Matt: I love comedy and funny stuff, so my acting role models are people like Jim Carrey and Steve Carrell. For music, I really like Jason DeRulo and 3OH3! My dad and I always used to sing Daniel Bedingfield’s “Gotta Get Thru This” together.

Becca: I really look up to people like Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez because they do it all: acting, singing, dancing. And I really like Hayley Williams from Paramore because she has a such a cool style. Taylor Swfit writes amazing songs and always inspires me to be a better songwriter.

Would you rather tour with the Jonas Brothers or Demi Lovato?

Becca: The Jonas Brothers. I saw their concert and the stage sets and everything were so amazing. They had waterfalls inside the arena! It was just a great experience to be there.

Matt: I would pick Demi Lovato. Because I just love her.

Who are your celebrity crushes?

Becca: Definitely Nick Jonas. I think he’s super talented, and I love that he writes his own songs.

Matt: Demi Lovato and Hilary Duff. And Hayley Williams from Paramore, she’s amazing!

Check out their music at www.930music.com

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Along with sharing my indie music experiences with you, the main reason I wanted to share this interview is to introduce you to a new podcaster/musician friend of mine, Eric and his podcast Songwriter Synergy.

Before conducting the interview I listened to a few episode and I really liked the subject matter. Stuff like songwriting, equipment, live performance reviews, etc.

Anyway, stop by and check out my interview, then subscribe and listen to all of the others Eric has to offer.

Go listen to the interview with Corey Koehler on Songwriter Synergy.

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Introducing Singer/Songwriter John Nagle

Your new EP comes out this summer, how long has it been in the works?

It’s been on and off the back burner for about 3 years now. Yes, that is a long time for any project but it was a necessary learning experience for any independent artist. It’s a good time to mention that my new album, Distractions, has been in the works since June. My good friend and fellow artist Nahneen Kula is producing on the project. She’s a genie. We expect it to be finished by December.

What song on the EP are you most proud of and why?

I can say that the most enjoyable experience in the recording process was for the song “Deeper.” At that point I had finally started to get a sense of how a song should be brought to life in the studio. It’s hard to think of it in terms of pride. I have no real control over what my musical urges are going to be like over the course of time. So I can only feel grateful when a song magically falls into place.

What made you transition from band to solo artist?

The transition came on more as a necessity than a choice. Keeping a band together was not easy especially in LA. I decided that if I could not get it together on my own I would never get it together.

You cite Fleetwood Mac as one of your greatest influences, who do you think fronts the band the best?

They are all great. Even counting the days of Peter Green. It’s kind of tie between Lindsey and Stevie. Honestly some people are born to front but Fleetwood Mac is all about the chemistry.

What has been your experience with trying to make it as a pop/jazz artist in Los Angeles?

Since LA I’ve spent most of my time learning the recording process and working on my material. “Making it,” to me, means two things out here, having a viable product; and delivering it. I have my product now and I’m ready to start delivering. The pop/jazz title is just a way to give people an idea of me without hearing me.

What was your favorite toy as a child, how old were you when you finally put it down?

I liked guns and swords and lasers. The answer to my prayers was, The Eliminator TS-7, or so I thought. In those days kids everywhere were looking for a way to combine the power of laser with both the power of gun and sword. A lethal combination that would change my life. I finally put it down when I realized no man, or boy, should harness such a force. It was about doing the right thing. Plus, when you’re 26 it makes it hard to keep girls around.

(I dunno ’bout that, I’m a girl and I’d be super impressed…)

If you could trade places with any celebrity for a day, who would it be and why?

Umm… totally invade the private life of any well known person for a day? So many to choose from. So many ways to ruin some one’s life in one day. It wouldn’t really matter who, because I would use them to do something unorthodox or potentially evil. To be fair, I’m not ready for this kind of power as was the case with my Eliminator TS-7.

Check out John Nagle on Facebook

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Unfortunately this week i have had to break my promise to you guy?s and instead of writing about rising youtube cover artists i am going to be telling you about how cover artist?s have developed over the last few year?s due to the expansion of technology and social media. Firstly as it is an introduction to the “Youtube” cover artist topic and secondly as i have not had time to research the up and coming artists as much as i would have liked as i have just spent a week in Rome.

Tech Has Been Moving On:

In the last few year?s technology as increased ten fold, every few months see the new released of a far more advanced piece of technology weather it be a computer or phone. This of course meant that computers have gone from the size of a room to the size of a shoe box in a short space of time.

With this rapid advancement of computers also came the progression of software, witch meant that instead of having to go to a recording studio and paying for often lengthy and expensive recording sessions. People had software such as adobe and garageband openly available to them on their computers.

Music production equipment such as microphones, speakers and instrument’s have become cheaper and cheaper, meaning that any average joe could pick it up and use it within seconds of installation.

All of this meant that the people who wanted to make music could do so easily in the comfort of their own homes and soon many new cover artists came onto the scene. Without a platform however it was hard for them to gain exposure for their music.

The Social Networking BOOM:

At this time the internet had started to boom, new ideas for sites were flowing and in the coming years sites such as Myspace, Facebook and Twitter helped people to socially network and share their creativity.

This has allowed many people to gain huge fan basses in a short period of time and make money for advertising, selling their work or even branded merchandise. Thus the cover artist of the modern day was born every Tom, Dick and Harry was able to get their music out their, and this will bring us into next weeks topic witch is the Youtube cover artist.

What do you guy?s think of social media, is it a good thing or bad? Let me know in the comments below! Seeya guy?s next week.

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In true Musicgoat fashion, the music on this podcast ranges from acoustic soul to straight folk to all points in between.

Mellow, insightful, upbeat, soulful, motivational and a just an overall great podcast to grab a drink and kick back too.

Listen now and share with everyone you know (they will love you for it).

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Artists And Songs heard on this podcast

Jokers And Jacks – “Now Way To Go”

Nick Shattuck – “Follow The River”

Nick Shattuck – “Best That I Can”

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Introducing Jonathan George,
award-winning vocalist, songwriter, producer, and photographer.

As a producer, you work with a lot of young, developing artists, would you consider that your specialty?

I develop all styles and ages but young artists are definitely my specialty. I have always worked with youth and I seem to understand how to pull the best out of them.

You have won a lot of awards, which was the most exciting for you to receive?

Winning the title Grand Champion on Ed McMahon’s Next Big Star back in 2001 was probably one of the most exciting moments of my life. Ed McMahon and his wife Pam became good friends and he even served on my board of directors for my non-profit organization. It opened a lot of doors for me.

What made you make the switch from artist to artist developer/producer?

I have always worked with young talent ever since I graduated with a Bachelor of Vocal Music Education in ‘96. After 9/11, there was a shift in the music business so I took everything I learned as an artist and put it into the talent I worked with. I believe in going with the flow of things and this is where my path has led me and I feel blessed. I miss the stage but if it is meant to be…it will happen again!

What is your favorite part about working with young acts?

Young acts have such great attitudes and are willing to experiment with their gifts. They are not jaded nor do they have the weight of the world on their shoulders….so they always bring a breath of fresh air to their sessions. They are so fun to work with…never feels like work!

You also do motivational speaking, what are some of your favorite topics to cover?

I always work to build high self-esteem in youth. A low self-esteem is the basis for most all of our problems in youth and it is something that we have all had to deal with at some point in our life.  If you can love yourself then you can love and accept others! Self-love and acceptance is the key to a healthy self-esteem which transcends to all aspects of the community.

If you could work with any artist on a song, who would it be?

Give me an artist with drive, talent, and a great energy and I will be there to work with them. But if there was one person I would love to work with, it would be Garth Brooks. I know he isn’t a young artist but he is my all time favorite!

In 2001, you sang an original song “Losing All My Pride” on the Ed McMahon’s Next Big Star show, what inspired you to write that song?

“Losing All My Pride” was the first song I ever wrote. It was about 3 in the morning and I wrote it in about 13 minutes. I was going thru a break up and the words and music just poured out of me. It was the best therapy I have ever had! lol

To learn more about Jonathan George and JG Entertainment go here

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Basically, they are willing to give you free plays for helping them drive other bands and artists to their service. Here’s an excerpt from their blog;

Make sure you’re registered at Grooveshark Artists, have at least one song in your profile, and get your fellow musicians to sign up to. THAT’S IT. We will play your music for potential fans via Grooveshark Radio! Here’s the breakdown:

5 referrals = 2,000 targeted Radio plays + 1 month VIP
10 referrals = 4,000 targeted Radio plays + 6 months VIP + chance to win site skin
15 referrals = 6,000 targeted Radio plays + 1 year VIP + chance to win site skin
20 referrals = 20,000 targeted Radio plays + lifetime VIP + chance to win site skin
Top 10 referrals overall = Featured on Grooveshark social media (50k+ readers)
Top 5 referrals overall = Custom banner ads featured on Grooveshark
Winner will receive a free custom site skin on Grooveshark ($10,000+ value)

Cool huh? Just think of all the people you could reach with thousands of plays. You could really bump up email sign-ups and sales.

Here’s that that link again, Grooveshark Artists. Go sign up now!

Make sure you stop back and let me know how it works out for you.

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Bingham Willoughby
perceives more than mere mortals
His songs freeze beauty

Introducing Rock Poet: Bingham Willoughby

Your new album is called Maybe Not Today, Maybe Tomorrow, are you a big procrastinator or is there another significance to the title?

On one level, you could say that there is a slight essence of procrastination, in the title. But my intentions, speak to more of an anticipatory feeling–as if you might say, “maybe not today, maybe tomorrow…but soon.” I wanted the title to evoke an impression, more akin to having overheard a snippet of conversation, versus some grand mission statement. And on a personal note, I think I’ll answer the question of being a procrastinator, a little later on…

You have a new video out for your song “What If You’d Chosen Me” what is the significance behind all of the nature shots?

The concept for the video was to explore the interaction between the idea of traveling and the various surroundings you’ll encounter. The traveler responds to these situations, and yet what he sees remains unchanged. The viewer is the traveler. The various natural and urban backdrops are silent witnesses. The notion of looking through moss covered branches, points to a starting point for reflection. The traveler is then confronted with images of the guitar scuttling across the forest floor, a snare filling with sky, and Spanish moss springing to life to try on a Da Vinci shirt. The images from nature; the swaying flowers and trees all asking, “What If You’d Chosen Me?” Humans are moving and nature is moving; these images reflect the song’s sentiments: “I don’t know if I’ll ever have the strength to plan again. Say what you have to, you can’t stop this from happening.” We’re asking the questions and searching for answers–in moody, mysterious nature.

If someone were to play Bingham Willoughby in a movie, who, dead or alive, would you want that actor to be?

It might sound like a funny choice, but Orson Welles. Not just because, I like his acting, but mostly because I credit him with performing one of the most bizarre musical numbers, ever committed to film (in Citizen Kane). In fact, some day I’d love to do a shot by shot remake of it, for one of my songs. If I was forced to choose a living actor, I’d have to say Philip Seymour Hoffman (currying favor, with the interviewer).

Your music sounds very reminiscent of Lou Reed, is he an influence of yours? Who are your other influences?

I definitely feel indebtedness to Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground, and certainly, some of the ways I approach song writing are heavily influenced, by what I perceive to be some of their methods. In particular, I’ve always been a huge fan of Reed’s ability to manifest, not only evocative images, but also real emotional urgency. Any writer, who wants to try and speak “of the moment,” owes Lou a debt. In terms of playing, I think any person who utilizes, at times, a reductive approach when playing and ranging, also owes a debt to The Velvet underground.

I have a lot of other influences. Just a few, off the top, would be: The Smiths (Johnny Marr), Lloyd Cole and Neil Young. Even Rockabilly greats, like Eddie Cochran are an influence. When it comes to lyrics, I’m drawn to that turn of phrase that resonates. In my own listening it’s something I always look for, and I’ve discovered it in many varied sources, from Cole Porter to The Shins. I’m always looking out for something that entices me.

This album was truly a solo project, from the music, the recording, and the lyrics; what are the best and worst parts of recording an album alone?

The best part about recording alone might in some ways be the worst part as well. If you have an idea, you can implement it, without consultation, somewhat streamlining the process. However, you also can’t benefit from several great ideas being offered at once, and then crystallizing into one grand idea. That is one of the huge benefits of a group process. The solitary approach fit perfectly, for the way I was feeling about this group of songs. Additionally, from a musician’s standpoint and recording standpoint, there are times when you are actively seeking this form of challenge. You’re trying to make the correct decisions that are going to be right for the songs.

You look like a mixture of Philip Seymour Hoffman and Andy Warhol, what is your favorite Hoffman movie and Warhol piece?

I’ve never been compared to those two people, at the same time before, though I do see the resemblance. I’m a huge fan of both of them, to tell you the truth, so I gladly take the compliment.

I’m a fan of Philip Seymour Hoffman. He’s definitely one of the best character actors working today. I think it would have to come down to a tie between Happiness and Capote, but let’s face it, he’s great in everything he’s done (even Along Came Polly.) Todd Solondz’s, Happiness, is classic Seymour Hoffman and Solondz: equal parts compelling and disturbing. I think one of the greatest things about Philip Seymour Hoffman, is that he somehow elicits a humanity from his performances that allows us to see a little piece of ourselves in his portrayals. Songwriting, aspires to the same goals.

As for Warhol, I am a huge fan, even to the point of having made the pilgrimage to the Warhol museum in Pittsburgh, (and yes, t-shirts were purchased). 5 floors of Andy including some of his taxidermy collection. Well worth a look. As for my favorite Warhol works, I have to throw down another tie, between his Flowers series from the early ’60’s, and a sentimental favorite, Elvis 1 and 2.

…as for being a procrastinator. If I was, Maybe Not Today, Maybe Tomorrow, would have ended with the title.

Find him on Facebook or elsewhere…

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Hello everybody and welcome to the new weekly segment here on MusicGoat.com. Covering a wide variety of music stylings by the modern cover artist.

But first let me introduce myself. My name is Oliver Barker and like any other driven teenager lounging around and doing nothing i am passionate for music. I grew up loving band’s like My Chemical Romance, 30 Second’s To Mars and now as my music tastes have expanded i find myself loving band’s such as Placebo and Muse.

A particular kind of music has been a developing interest for me for the last few years and that is the “Cover Artist”. The beginning of this interest came from the first time that i heard Muse’s “Feeling Good” a completely different take of an old classic.

From that moment on, the way that i listened and felt about that song had changed. The same lyrics played and sang differently can change the meaning of a song from that of Joy and illation to angst and misery.

Over the coming week’s i will talk about various topics of the cover artist from popular hit’s you didn’t know weren’t the bands own song, to rising star’s to check out before they make the big time.

This week’s topic is the: BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge.

The Live Lounge is a mid morning program that in the past was presented by the lovable Jo Wiley, unfortunately now a days it is hosted by Verne Cotten. As irritating as she is the music that is aired is alway’s something of interest. The show is based around big artists that are currently in the charts coming and and playing one of their own songs acoustically with is always followed by a cover of another artist.

As i am sure that you can guess this alway’s makes for a interesting result’s. The mix of acoustic vocal’s and live music is always phenomenal and artist’s always put out a great performance. However the song’s that a covered make for mixed result’s.

The Big Hit:

Haley William’s cover of “Use Somebody” was a massive hit and took the internet by storm:

The Flop:

Cheryl Tweedy’s cover of “Fire Flies” by Owl City was somewhat to be desired as her live vocals were lack luster and unimpressive:

I hope that i have given you a brief insight into the world of cover artistry and have opened your mind to the endless possibilities. Why not go and check out some of the live lounge covers and let me know witch one is your favorite?

Next Week: The Rising Cover Artist Of 2010

Until Then: I’m Ollie. Check Ya Later

Why not come check my other blog at: http://thekfm.blogspot.com

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Go listen to Cranium Melody V now and listen as Greg, Joe and myself talk music and movies.

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Margrit from True Margrit sees the world through her own bent kaleidescope and effortlessly churns out curious little sentences that look to be right out of a novel.  Her imagery and sophisticated insight on Seaworthy and The Juggler’s Progress (the two albums I’ve listened to) show off her writing talent and quirky voice and are a grand departure, when you want to try something new. So True Margrit, this one’s for you:

Forget what you thought
True Margrit’s not seaworthy
They are hear-worthy

You guys are currently on a west coast tour, what has been the best city so far?

We love every show as though each one were our only child. But with that said, this time through Eugene, Oregon really showed the love with a cool write up in the Eugene Weekly, two radio shows, and awesome dancing fans at the gig.

True Margrit was invited to play the International Pop Overthrow Festival in LA, how did you get involved with them?

Who hasn’t heard the legend of IPO, the world’s best independent pop fest, and David Bash its founder?? He has been a staunch supporter of True Margrit and we are super proud to participate. This year we have a cut on the IPO compilation CD, “Syllable” from The Juggler’s Progress.

Your new album, The Juggler’s Progress was released early this year, how did you come up with the title?

Haha, speaking of juggling metaphors…I wanted to mash together the (possibly discordant) themes of evolution, mountain climbing, and somehow incorporate a bunch of Shakespearean themes/references, so the title seemed to cover all those necessities…

Can anyone in True Margrit actually juggle?

Gary juggles potato pancakes, Andrew juggles drumsticks (both chicken and the kind one hits a drum with), and I juggle metaphorical clouds

On August 8th the band will be performing in San Francisco at Bottom of The Hill, we hear you’ll be unveiling a new music video, any funny outtakes we should know about?

Haha. There might be some footage of me climbing on the keyboard which didn’t make it into the video. And …footage of the three giant meals we ate during the 12 hour video shoot.

Why is Gary’s nickname “Cupcake,” what are Margrit’s feelings on the unique spelling of her name, and is Andrew related to Kevin Bacon?

Gary bakes a mean black bottom cupcake. I feel good having a more phonetic streamlined spelling of Margrit (and we like making a cinematic reference to the film True Grit, which, by the way, is being re-made by the Coen brothers!) Andrew is sometimes related to Kevin Bacon—when it serves his evil purposes—but technically, he’s not, no.

You just filmed a video for “Opposite Man” can you explain the story behind the song?

“Opposite Man” is that rare breed of song, a rueful anthem about making bad choices that really worked out for the best after all.

What is next for the band after the tour?

Finishing up new songs for the next recording, booking the next tour and then we’re back on the road  in October, mostly in Northern Cal, but maybe a few dates in LA. Stay tuned and rock on!

Find them here or on Facebook

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Image via CrunchBase

I just wanted to run something by my fellow artists out there. I am not sure where but I found this site called Headliner.fm and it seems like it could be worth a shot.

Now I know what your thinking, new services promising to help bands and artist “reach the top” and explode their fanbase  are a dime a dozen these days, but, this one kind of jumped out at me as one to try out. See what you think.

The Skinny

It is an interesting concept. Basically they allow bands and artists the opportunity to leverage the fans of other bands and artists – on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, etc – by swapping promotions with them. In other words, you can have your music shared with fans of other bands/artists if you agree to share there music with your fans, on your social networks.

You can run promotions with artists in your genre each with a varying degree of popularity. they can be anywhere from your small local acts all the way up to artist like Diddy and Rob Thomas (not sure exactly how that works but those artists are on Headliners.fm’s homepage).

It is definitely an intriguing concept and could be a nice way to get your music in front of a very targeted audience for a very low investment. Plus I like the idea of hard-working bands and artist working together and helping each other out. After all, we are in this together.

Coming Clean

Now, just so you know, I haven’t done anything other than sign up, connect to my Facebook fanpage and Twitter account and watch as other bands approach me with promotion ideas. Sign up was simple and I was able to get a little over 20,000 plus of what they call band bucks for my 500+ fan base.

As far as promoting the other bands that have approached me, no band or artist has really been anything I wanted to promote to my fans – at least not until I am more familiar with how it works and/or the band/artist is someone I like myself.

I haven’t done a promotion myself – to see if I can parlay any of this into an increased fan base and/or sales – but I am currently in the process of revamping my mailing list and am waiting for that to get done before going full throttle.

Anyway, I figured I would tell you about it in case you thought it would come in handy and to hear your thoughts. Also, I get some more band bucks when other artists sign up using my link (hows that for full disclosure?). I figured I would stock pile some of those band bucks until I have my mailing list revamped.

So go take a look and if you think it is worth a shot, try it out. And if you would, please use my Headliners.fm link to do so. Thanks in advance!

Oh, and if you are already using it, please share your thoughts below so we can all learn.

Like This Shit? So do 700 plus Musicgoat diehards. Stop by and introduce yourself now. And if you’d like to check out my music and get a couple free downloads ta boot, visit my site PlanetCorey.com.

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Artists are the ones who create the future. Artists are the ones who dream the dreams that becomes a reality so it’s important to me what this future is going to be like. My purpose as an artist/music producer is to change the current culture for the better.

Would you like to live in a society full of drugs and violence? Would you like your children, family and friends to live in it? I don’t think so. So this is why I’m ” selective” with whom I work with.

I’m not an idealist though. Don’t get me wrong. If you need to say “f@$k”, say it, but when the entire message of the song is “getting high on dope” or “shaking your bootie” well… then my kids would be living in the world where you can buy crack in a grocery store and the moral values would be something like “how many girls you can screw in a week.”

I work FOR the artist. I am there as a tool to get their ideas clearer, their music better and, eventually, to make their dreams come true, whether it’s sign a record deal or impress their girlfriend, whatever their dreams might be.

In your bio, you cite Dr. Dre as being the main influence from switching from classical music to hip-hop, what was it that stood out about Dre?

Dre is real. He talks about things for what they are. He’s no fake. Dre brought street culture to the masses and made it commercial, but mostly what makes him so incredible is that he did terrific music productions. Terrific. Stunning. Timeless.

Even after 10 years, I still consider Dre’s 2001 album as one of the best hip hop productions and I can assure you, it will be that way 10-20 years from now and will continue to be that way afterwards. He also had a brilliant eye for new talent and it is mainly because of him that we now have Snoop and Eminem. One of these days, I’m going to produce an album with Dre to create another classic for my grandchildren to listen to for a long time.

As a producer you work with many artists, who has been one of your favorites?

Each and every artist that I personally have worked with. Some are easy to work with. With others it could be troublesome sometimes or pain in the ass, but each and every one of the artists I worked with has inspired me in many ways and I always learn from them, always.

Vocals are a huge deal for you, what techniques do you use to get the best vocals out of a singer and what programs do you work with?

First off, I work with an artist in the studio, trying this and that, asking him to do this and that, coming up with new ideas and finding other ways that their performance could be improved.

The next step of the production would be vocal editing. Sometimes I use over 10 different takes to compile just one line, to make sure it sounds just right! Everything is important, delivery, pitch, pronunciation, clarity, communication, etc. And of course, I work separately on pitch.

The funny thing is, that at the very end the artist usually never knows how it was done. Everything sounds just right to him/her and he/she thinks that this is exactly how he/she performed it! Lol. But that’s the beauty of it.

I mainly work with Logic Pro. But for vocals I use Melodyne. Honestly, without Melodyne it wouldn’t be possible. The German engineers who created this program are simply geniuses. Hats off to them. Well done and thank you guys.

The video “Alien Love” was for a song you did. Tell us your involvement with that project.

This song has a very interesting story. Once upon a time I created a music track for a song. Then I thought, why don’t I do a contest where I would just offer this track to anybody who is interested in basing a song on it. So, I did a post on Craigslist about it, offering free music production and a free music video to the winners.

The response was overwhelming. I received over 180 requests from the artists to whom I sent this track to. 32 of them sent me their demos back and out of these 32, I chose the best 3 songs. One of them was “Alien Love” by The Trade.

I picked this artist because of the way he flows and because of his creativity with words and delivery. I also finished another song for this very same track. It’s called “Cash Out” and I am in progress of creating a music video for that song as well.

To my regret, I still didn’t get to finish the last song that I’ve chosen. The good news is that this artist contacted me recently saying that she played this song for Snoop Dogg’s manager and they said they are interested in it, so I guess I have no choice now but to complete it It’s called “Single, single.” You’d love it if you heard it! Well…when I’ll manage to finally complete it!

In your opinion, how can an artist make a song great?

Be sincere and honest as an artist. Be real and be yourself. Then add interesting and memorable lyrics and interesting and memorable music.

If you can’t sing the song after you just heard it or whistle it, then it’s usually not a great song. But also, what’s very important as well is, did you get anything out of the song? Did you learn something new? Did you experience some emotion? Did it move you? Did it make you go and do something? The list could go on, but I think you get the idea

Besides Dr. Dre, who do you think is one of the greatest producers out there today?

There are many great producers out there—many. I’ve gotten the opportunity to work with some. The one who I didn’t work with is Quincy Jones. Yes, I know, he’s not as active today as he was, say, 20-30 years ago, but nevertheless, his productions still stand out today. Out of the ones that I did work with is Emanuele Ruffinengo who is one of the greatest and most talented guys that I’ve met.

If you happen to need a producer, visit Eugene here or on Facebook.

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From June:

“Dear God 2.0″ – the Roots
You don’t have to be a hip-hop fan to sense the glory in this performance, which is a reworking of a song originally recorded by the Monsters of Folk. Jim James can still be heard, but the song centers on Black Thought’s weary, rumbling, tumbling rap. (Read the entire review.)

“Here Sometimes” – Blonde Redhead
Elusively appealing song from the veteran NYC trio, with a characteristic mix of dreaminess and electronics. (Read the entire review.)

Orange Yellow – the Spires
Jangly guitar rock, with a nod to the Velvet Underground. The band is from Ventura, however, so it bounces with more of a SoCal than a downtown groove. (Read the entire review.)

(Other artists featured in June included Simian Ghost, Sea of Bees, and Sambassadeur.)

From July:

“Zorbing” – Stornoway
Bursting with melody and innocence, as invigorating as a bright blue puffy-clouded day. In a better world than this one, this is the song of the summer of 2010. (Read the entire review.)

“Alouette!” – Tallest Trees
Gleeful, skewed, clattery pop from a Nashville duo. Electronics are used with good humor, and the entire arrangement is great fun. (Read the entire review.)

“Noisemaker” – Two Hours Traffic
Nothing more or less complicated than brisk, sharp power pop. No summer should be without this one either. (Read the entire review.)

Other artists featured in July included Lost in the Trees, Like Bells, and Saadi.)

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Who are some of your collective influences and what draws you to them?

Anberlin for their dynamics and killer melodies, they have a way of doing both softer heartfelt songs and edgier stuff that makes them very versatile; Muse, they have such amazing stage presence and musicianship; Paramore for their melodic use of the guitar as well as incredible drum writing; Death Cab For Cutie, Ben Gibbord is an incredible lyricist and also writes some of the most interesting bass lines; and we have to mention The Anniversary for influencing Johnny’s synth style so much.

I hear that you perform acoustic sets to support organizations. Can you tell us what causes you support and how you got into that?

The cause we have dedicated the most support to and that really must be mentioned is Invisible Children. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to ending the war in northern Uganda and are a voice for the children who are abducted daily and forced to be child soldiers as a result of this war. More than just an organization, they are really a family, which is how we were able to get involved in such a great cause. The mission of our band is to write good, uplifting and inspiring music for good people. We’ve always felt it’s important to give our audience more credit than the music industry typically does. And that’s exactly what Invisible Children does; they call people to action in a way that expects more from them as human beings. It’s an honor to be able to offer them our support.

Your songs have some interesting titles, who thinks them up and where does the inspiration for them come from?

Well Milo thinks them up, of course, he is really all the inspiration we need.

One of your songs is called “Pickup Lines,” do you have any good lines that actually work?

Well, we have plenty of lines, but none of them work.

How is it being a part of the San Diego music scene?

Really the true joy of being a band in San Diego comes from our fans. We have an incredible group of fans who always seem to make it to every show we play. We’re very blessed that way.

Ren, what is it like being in a band full of dudes?

This seems like a loaded question haha. But in all honesty, I love it. These are a great group of guys, and musicians for that matter. I’ve always felt like I fit right in, I’m just one of the guys which is so much fun. They’re like brothers to me in a lot of ways. We poke fun at each other and sometimes I find myself rolling my eyes. But the most important thing is that while we have our moments, in the end we all work extremely well together and have a lot of respect for one another, which is just so crucial to a good writing and performing atmosphere.

Since you’re from San Diego like Anchorman Ron Burgundy, if you were all newscasters, what line would you use as your sign off in place of “Stay Classy San Diego?”

Peter Says “Stay sexy San Diego!”
Ivan says “Uhh I thought you we’re gonna pick me last I can’t think of one.”
Dallen says “Can’t the new drummer answer this question?”
Weston says “Probably an everyday phrase I could trademark and make money off of.”
Ren says “Stay in school San Diego.”
Johnny says “You be good San Diego.”

Check them out here or on Facebook.

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What makes a good summertime song?
It can be from any genre of music, but regardless of its origins all summertime songs need to follow the same criteria: an up-tempo beat, a catchy chorus or hook, and lyrics with light, fun content that call to mind summer parties, summer flings, romance and the fun of warm weather.

Beach Boys – “California Girls”
For listeners young or old, the influence and timelessness of bands like The Beach Boys cannot be denied.  Their song “California Girls” is one of the most classic summertime songs of all time.  The West Coast sound, the cheery vocals and the youthful lyrics make this a summer classic that has stood the test of time.

Martha and the Vandellas “Heat Wave”
The same can be said about “Heat Wave” by Martha and the Vandellas. This legendary Motown track has a beat that makes you wanna get up and groove, great vocals for singing along and is perfect for driving down a sunny highway on a summertime road trip.

Sly & The Family Stone’s “Hot Fun in the Summertime”
Another classic is Sly & The Family Stone’s hit “Hot Fun in the Summertime”.  The title says it all, and the mellow music with a slightly more upbeat chorus make it perfect for lazy afternoons and evenings by the barbecue.

Surfari’s “Wipe Out”
Nothing conjures images of beach blankets, bikinis and summertime breezes quite like Surfari’s 1963 hit “Wipe Out”.  What it lacks in lyrical content it more than makes up for in guitar riffs and drumbeat that are as seminal a sound of summer as anything in recent memory.

DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince “Summertime”
Recent memory, however does call to mind some more contemporary musical hits, such as “Summertime” by DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince.  One of the most instantly recognizable beats of the 90s this song was the summertime anthem when it first came out and thanks to it lyrics about cruising with friends, trying to meet girls, hanging out in the backyard and just generally keeping cool in the heat.

Prince’s “Little Red Corvette”
Another summertime song with reference to cars was Prince’s “Little Red Corvette” While certainly only a euphemism, there’s something about songs that reference cars and cruising that calls to mind bright sunny afternoons.

Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do”
Hot on the heels of “Summertime” was Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do” a dreamy, catchy tune celebrating the lazy shiftlessness that we all give into a little bit during the summer months.  There’s nothing difficult to understand about why this song was so popular.  Years later the twangy guitar and bluesy vocals still hold up, creating a mellow dreamy summertime vibe.

Skee-Lo’s “I Wish”
From the hip hop world in the mid 1990s came Skee-Lo’s “I Wish”. While this song may not have explicitly reference summer or summertime, it certainly had a summery energy. Lyrics about a guy too short, too poor and too uncool to get the girls topped the charts and was the soundtrack to many a backyard barbecue or evening joyride.

The Formula
It seems like the formula for a successful summertime playlist is to find songs with a great beat, a catchy chorus, lots of references to girls, cars, parties and the beach, mix well and play over and over again until September.

So did I miss any? If so let me know in the comments below.

About the Author:

Vern is a music fanatic, and is always inspired to write about music. From opinionated pieces about music reviews to informational posts about learning to produce cell phone ringtones for struggling musicians, his writing style covers a wide array of industry topics.

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My Idea

Since the song is about remembering and since Memorial Day was on its way, I shot out an email to everyone on my email list and on the official Corey Koehler Facebook Fanpage offering friends and fans the opportunity to take part in the process. I ask them to send in pictures of deceased loved ones that they would like to memorialize.

Along with a good response , I had the help of my sister, her video camera, her Mac and the gorgeous scenery surrounding where I live (Winona, MN).

Check It Out

It was our first shot at making a video but I think that my sister  and I did alright. What do you think?

Facebook Video?

If you are wondering why I embedded from Facebook its because it is a higher quality version than the one I posted on YouTube. We didn’t really know what we were doing at first and we had to convert it to a format suitable for YouTube. And since I was in a hurry – because I slacked a little early on and had to press to get it out before the end of Memorial Day – I didn’t pay attention to the obvious lack of quality (see for yourself on the YouTube version).

Anyway, hope you enjoy it. Oh, and I almost forgot (Duh! still getting used to this promotion thing lol), if you like the tune you can pick it up on my BandCamp page , iTunes, Amazon or CDbaby (i’m everywhere).

HEY! Let’s be friends! Hook up with me on my YouTube Channel, on my Facebook FanPage or on my official site, PlanetCorey.com.

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What is the most surprising is that these weddings are for your friends. The same people you hang out with every week, who listen to the same podcasts as you, watch the same TV shows, appreciate the same music. What happened to them to suddenly be okay with the Chicken Dance and Y.M.C.A. piping over the loud speakers?

3 Reasons Why Your Wedding Will Have Terrible Music

1. The DJ takes the reins. A wedding DJ is an artist. You may not think so, but he or she most certainly does. And as an artist, the DJ believes he has the right to certain liberties that can be unexpected for the bride and groom et al. You may have had your playlist perfected, but if the DJ sees the dance floor lagging, he is going to throw on his sure-fire, never-fail, always-gets-people-moving mix and take it from there. If that special DJ mix happens to include the lyrics “my lip-gloss is cool, my lip-gloss be poppin’” … well you’re just out of luck.

2. You’re just too tired to plan anymore. Sure, picking out the music for your wedding sounds like fun (you do have excellent taste in music, after all). But after you’ve survived the battlefield that is finding a wedding photographer that doesn’t cost $4,000 and spent sleepless nights wondering if sashimi really was a reasonable choice for a first course, designing a wedding playlist is just about the last thing you want to do. Leaving it to the experts is just so tempting. I mean, a DJ is a DJ for a reason, right? It’s his or her job. They must know what they are doing.

And suddenly, you’re loosening your tie or hiking up your skirt and mouthing the words to Katy Perry. “What happened here?” you might wonder. “In what feasible reality would I have ever let this through?” But by then it’s too late. You’re music is in the hands of another, and there isn’t anything you can do about it – or your reputation.

3. Not everyone at the wedding shares your musical preferences. If you and your significant other are one of those couples whose entire reason for existence is one band (say you met at that fateful Pearl Jam Riot Act tour) it may be tempting to dedicate the bulk of the reception’s playlist to one band’s repertoire.

Don’t get me wrong: Pearl Jam is great. Eddie Vedder lives in the same town I do, and I would be lying if I said that I didn’t scope out discrete coffee shops on Sunday mornings to see if I could spot him ordering an espresso. But more than one Pearl Jam song at a reception means instant wedding doldrums. The only way a PJ-overload is going to fly is if the vast majority of your wedding guests knows every song. And hates dancing. Because you can’t dance to Pearl Jam (you look like an idiot trying) and people like things they can sing along to.

What choice are you left with other than to slip in a couple of the choice, superior songs you love, and flood the rest of the dance floor with weird, radio hip-hop and those dance songs where they instruct you on your next move: One hop this time. Two hops this time.

Wedding Songs to Make Everyone Happy

Don’t worry, you future brides and grooms with intense indie urges. There are songs that exist that meet both dancability and elitist expectations. Use these as a guide.

Little Latin Lupe Lu, by the Righteous Brothers It’s groovy, it’s retro, and if you don’t know it, the words are pretty easy to figure out.

Shout, by The Isley Brothers I will acknowledge that this one is a little controversial, especially for music snobs who don’t want to have any song from a soundtrack at their wedding (even if the movie is Animal House). But I guarantee everyone – EVERYONE – will dance to this song. They will even get down to the ground when they get softer now, and bring it back up as they get louder now, and it’s the most fun you’ll ever have.

Jump Jive & Wail, by the Brian Setzer Orchestra Okay, okay. So it’s 90s. And it’s swing-y. But it gives the older folks a chance to show off their moves while at the same time gets the youngster’s toes a-tappin’.

Something sort of PG-13 rated from Girl Talk The great thing about Girl Talk is that he mixes all sorts of danceable gems together into a giant, glorious mashup. The downside is that 2/3 of said gems boast vaguely suggestive content. Try “Bounce That.” It’s hot and only says “hoes” 3 times.

Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough, by Michael Jackson It might be too soon for some, but it’s a dance floor masterpiece

You Sexy Thing, by Hot Chocolate Let’s take it down a notch and get some slow grooves in there. Because everyone at a wedding is sexy, and it’s a miracle.

Remix to Ignition, by R. Kelly Just kidding.

Do you have your own favorite wedding dance hits? Share ‘em – but you should note that any references to Journey or Bon Jovi automatically disqualify you from the cool list.

About the writer:
Rachel Smith a writer based in the Pacific Northwest. She writes for Storkie Express about wedding invitations and all things wedding related. She has phenomenal taste in music.

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Superqueen is the name of your album. Why did you choose that name and how does one become a Superqueen?

“Superqueen” is the second song on the CD. The song describes a woman who feels that on every level she is in charge of her own life. She (Superqueen) feels that she can be, do or have anything that she wants.  She has a sense of complete freedom and there are no limits to her choices or directions in life. A Superqueen, by my definition would be one who feels and moves in the direction of independence and freedom.

Who are some of your biggest music influences?

I listen to a wide variety of music everything from E.S. Posthumus to Eric Clapton. Being a guitarist, I love listening to guitar-oriented music and that is my biggest influence. I am very influenced by guitar-driven groups and artists like Led Zepplin, Jimi Hendrix and Foo Fighters.

According to your MySpace, you are constantly on the road, what is your favorite city to play?

I don’t have a particular favorite, but if I had to pick one it would be Ontario, Canada. It’s closer to my home in L.A. and the people there are really great.

A lot of your events are in casinos, what has been your biggest win to date?

I don’t gamble in the casinos. My biggest win so far is achieving my goals as far as becoming a professional musician full-time.

You made a music video for the song “Love Is,” what’s the story behind that song?

I wrote that song while I was taking a course on Protools. As part of the course, we had to learn how to add music to video and film clips. I wrote the song and soon after shot the video in short segments around L.A. I came up with the idea to write the song after reading books on metaphysics. The song is about love in a universal sense that states compassion and forgiveness are acts of love too. I wanted to encompass more perspectives about love from an expanded point of view rather than a purely romantic point of view.

Which of your songs is the most personal to you?

If I had to pick the most personal it would be “Stay in My Skin.” That songs describes my personal thoughts and feeling about genuine self-acceptance.

If you could have anyone to start a band with, who would be in it?

If I could have anyone, it would be Dave Grohl, Dave Matthews and Josh Homme to name a few. I really love their singing and playing.

If you could have any special power to use inside of a casino, what would it be and what else would you use it for?

I would use my special powers of focus to win a large jackpot and teach others how they can do the same thing! : )

Check her out on MySpace or on Facebook

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Already Julian has worked directly with Joaquin Phoenix, JC Chasez, and Violet Flames to name a few.  As a sonwriter, he co-wrote the smash hit “Wrap It Up” which has been featured in Whip It, GTA 4, Sopranos, Kyle XY and CSI Miami. He has also remixed a number of artists and DJed in clubs worldwide from the from The Razzmatazz in Barcelona, the Maria in Berlin, Death Disco/Kill All Hippies/Transmission/The Queen is Dead/The Secret Door in London, Happy Endings in New York, and Standard Hotels in Los Angeles. Do you see what I mean? Julian Shah-Tayler is an artist to watch for his versatility,musical integrity and sophisticated artistry.

You have been in a number of bands over the years, how you feel about having a solo project?

It feels great. I have been writing with a solo project in mind before, during and after the time I was in bands. It would be fair to say that in a lot of the bands, the songs were tantamount to solo efforts anyway. Finally because I play all the instruments and produce the songs as well as sing them, I get to do exactly what I want with them now.

What inspired the lyrics to the song “Wetter”?

Ha ha. Strangely I wrote the backing track for JC Chasez (*NSYNC) because I was working with him on some other projects. When I thought of the “naughty” lyric, it just stuck, and I decided to finish the song myself. I read a lot about Prince in my youth, as I was a huge fan. I think that using provocative lyrics does not necessarily denote a lack of subtlety across the board with the rest of the oeuvre. It was only ever intended to be a fun song, and it has certainly proved itself a favourite with my live audiences and radio stations.

You have a full length coming out at the end of the year entitled Coito Ergo Sum, what does that mean and can you expand on it?

Coito ergo sum is a corruption of the Descartes maxim: “cogito ergo sum” which means “I think therefore I am”
Coito, however means “I procreate”…….. The idea is that the use of latin is a little highbrow, but the message is quite cheeky really. I think that meeting of highbrow and lowbrow culture and intent reflects the content of my music nicely. I am quite serious, but irreverent and silly at the same time. Think perhaps of CNN presented by Monty Python…..

How does making music in the UK differ from making music in the United States?

My methods do not differ in the slightest bit between the US and the UK. I think the way it is perceived is the chief difference. Los Angeles is obviously a far cry from London, but my process is the same. Filter life through art and make it sound as interesting as possible….. Repeat.

You have collaborated and/or produced a number of other acts including JC Chasez, Joaquin Phoenix, and Whitey, who was your favorite to work with?

My favourite collaboration is the ongoing one I have with Scott Fairbrother in “adamandevil”, although the experience of working with Joaquin was the most “unusual” as he is a self-confessed non-musician, articulating himself most often in sensate terms. He’s quite brilliant as a producer actually, as he could take the musicians out of their comfort zone into a non-musical paradigm. This creates a very specific mood which helps create an idiosyncratic sound.

What role do you prefer, producer, songwriter, or DJ?

I am most definitely in my element as a singer/songwriter which comprises certain production things as well.

I read somewhere that you write between 50-70 songs a year and put out a new EP every few months, where do you get all this inspiration?

The songs are cathartic. I guess I am writing my diary/autobiography in song form, I guess you could say. Any emotional baggage can be offloaded in musical form.

You were once in a band called Drink Me, so if you were a vampire and could blend any 3 celebrities’ blood into a drink who would they be?

Shannyn Sossamon, Prince, (it would be purple) and Sigourney Weaver (for that added zing).

Find him on Facebook and keep an eye out for his label Impossible Things Records.

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It is not often that I comment on anything but Indie music here on the Goat, but, this 80’s metal rube couldn’t help himself. I originally planned on just Tweeting about it and sending out a Facebook update but I couldn’t say everything in 140 characters or less, so I figured I’d start the conversation here.

I was listening to The Rock And Roll Geek Show (highly recommended) where the host Micheal Butler was doing a track by track review of the new Vince Neil CD “Tattoos And Tequila”. I was readying myself for another throw away release from an aging rockstar from my youth – and the always honest Butler to call him on it – but I came away impressed.

Impressed enough that not only did I take time to write this review but I bought the CD. Proving once again, as they said on the show and on many others, podcasting does indeed sell.

A Few Thoughts…

…Not crazy about the title track so you’ll have to make up your own mind.

… “Another Bad Day” is the better of the only two originals on the release. It has positive vibe and could

…He covers “Who’ll Stop the Rain” by CCR and pulls it off nicely.  I’ve been a Motley Crue fan since “Too Fast For Love” and he sounds just as at home on this classic as he does on “Ten Seconds To Love” (I  can’t believe I used those two songs in the same sentence). There is a lot of sincerity in his performance that I didn’t expect. Great song, classic songwriting!

…I always liked the clean chunky riffs of The Hollies “Long Cool Women” and Vince and the band do a solid job. The big eighties distortion lends itself nicely.

… Elvis anyone? Viva Las Vegas gets a solid update.

There are more very solid covers to mention – like stuff by the  Scorpions, Sex Pistols, Elton John (seriously) and more – but I’ll let you figure out what you think on your own (Then share in the comments below).

Oh and I didn’t get the bonus track “Beer Drinkers And Hell Raisers”(ZZ Top) that I heard on the RNR Geek which kind of sucked but I’ll just have to wait for the CD.

Anyway, I guess what I am saying is you should go check it out. You can listen before you buy over at Amazon or check out Micheal Butler’s review. But if you want to dive right in, you can pick up the CD and download OR his $99 merch lovers dream package over at VinceNeil.net.

Your thoughts below.

Musicians And Promoters…

I, as a musician always looking out for good marketing and sales tips, thought it was interesting to see how the smooth the site sales process went. From what I can tell Topspin is doing everything- kudo to them.

Although I am not a big enough fan to lay down $99 bucks for the big merch package he is pimping, I bet there are plenty of people who are. Another example of how some of the more traditional artists are picking up on some marketing ideas forged in the indie realm and a sign that it works.

I signed up for the mailing list.  it will be interesting to see what kind of stuff Vince will be sending out – that is if he is gonna be the one doing it (somehow I doubt it but we’ll see).

Only thing I might have done differently was get more samples of the new tunes on his site. Had to go to Amazon to find those. Why make it hard for potential customers to hear everything the CD has to offer?

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So do 700 plus Musicgoat readers diehards. Stop by and introduce yourself now.

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What is the story behind your band’s name?

Phil: Our original bass player, Liberty, said about a friend was “hounding” a girl and he was acting like a dog without a bone.  Perfect name for this band.

If you were a dog in real life, what breed would you be and why?

Greig: I’d be a poodle.  They don’t shed.

Phil: A boxer, lovable, a mug and aggressive when necessary

Why did you choose to use an Andy Warhol inspired photo on your CD?

Phil: The band stylistically and musically is more akin to ’60s bands than contemporary groups. An icon of the ’60s like Warhol is representative of us, our taste in music and in art.

Greig: Andy Warhol is timeless like us.  Many different colors of the same image.  We have taken basic blues and colored it to match our vision.

I am told that your drummer, Phil, shares lead vocals, how did you learn to multitask like that?

Phil: Being a drummer since I was a kid, I had to be able to multi-task to even play drums. (You know, pat your head and rub your tummy).  Adding vocals is simply a matter of remembering to breathe.

What song that you play live seems to be a crowd pleaser?

Greig: “Leave Me Alone” seems to be a crowd favorite.  Although it’s about a woman who was obsessive, people always come up to us and say, “that song is soooo pretty.”  Go figure.

Phil: “Rescue Me” always gets the crowd moving.

What is the band currently working on?

Phil: We’re currently in the studio recording some tunes we’ve been playing for a while, as well as writing and arranging some new ones. We’re also planning on getting back in front of a live audience this summer.

Greig: Taking over the world!

Dogs and Bones have a song called “Sometimes It’s Better Not to Know,” can you give use a real life situation where you have thought that?

Phil: Check the third verse of the song.  The truth can be a bitch. So was that woman.

If you could have any guest artist play on your next record, who would you choose?

Greig: Wow, Elvis Costello maybe since he’s the whole package.  He can sing, dance (no not dance), write, play guitar.  Plus maybe he’ll put us on his show.  I met him once.  Jesse Dylan introduced me to him.  Does that count?

Phil: Stevie Winwood, that soaring B-3, those ethereal vocals.

Check them out here or on Facebook.

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From the city who has brought us a cornucopia of diverse acts such as Steve Miller, Al Jarreau, and The Violent Femmes comes Milwaukee’s next greatest export: Disaster March. Compared to bands like Weezer, Alkaline Trio, and Brand New, these midwestern guys provide fans with highly entertaining, energetic shows. I caught up with keyboardist Brian Farvour just a few hours before he and the guys took the stage at their hometown SummerFest to discuss everything from their evolution as a band to working with Kristian Riley to their K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) model.

Hey Brian, thanks for taking the time to chat with me today. So I know you guys are getting pretty excited to play tonight at SummerFest in just a few hours; is this your first time playing?

You know actually, we have never done SummerFest as a band. We’ve all played with different bands, and actually this is the third time this year I’ll be playing. Never with the same band twice, but playing SummerFest is something I really enjoy doing, especially being from Milwaukee. The other guys love it as well, Marc for instance opened up for Fountains of Wayne one year. We really love getting up there and having a good time, and look forward to getting a few new fans tonight.

So you guys mention in your biography that you’ve had several name changes. Where does Disaster March come from – what about that name stuck?

We’ve gone through a lot of different lineup changes the past few years, but we’ve had this solid lineup for the past two years. We were initially called “My Disaster March,” but ended up dropping the “My” because there seems to be a lot of other bands out there with that as the beginning of their name…My Chemical Romance, My Morning Jacket…we really wanted to stand on our own. So we changed to Disaster March. And the term Disaster March is the name of the musical theme they’d play at a circus during an emergency to calm people down.

So now you’ve been set as Disaster March for the past couple of years. When you play do you have a standard setlist?

Yah, I’d say we have a pretty standard set list. Sometimes we play off of the crowd to see if we should go in a different direction. For instance, we’ve cut out “Slow Motion (it’s one of our slower songs)” before when the crowd is really rowdy. For the most part it’s pretty standard. We do have a couple of cover songs we like to play…

Which ones?

“Paparazzi” by Lady Gaga and “Like a Prayer” by Madonna: definitely crowd favorites.

The most recent album you have is your Dire Days EP, tell me a little bit about the how you guys came up with that.

Some of the songs go several years back, like “Save Me Jaime” and “Slow Motion.” A few years ago, we actually paired up with Kristian Riley (Citizen King, Truth In Fiction, Paris, Texas) who helped us really flush some of our old stuff out to produce better versions of those tracks. We wrote a few new songs to combine with our “new old” tracks for the EP, which we recorded with Kristian in January 2009.

I actually wanted to get the stories behind a few of your tracks. I’ve got to ask about my favorite, “Save Me, Jaime.” Who is Jaime?

(laughs). Nick, a former member and still great friend of the band knew her. That is about all I know about “Jaime.”

And “These Blue Eyes,” is another one of my favorites. I was going to guess that this track was about Jaime, but I guess you don’t have the answer to that one…

“These Blue Eyes” is one of the old tracks that I told you about that was a really rough demo form, but we were able to flush it out with Kristian. We’re really happy with the way it turned out.

And “Slow Motion,” the last one I wanted to ask you about. Kind of a double entendre there.

Exactly. The title relates to both the lyrics of the song and the tempo/feel of the song itself. I really like this track a lot. I get chills every time I hear the swell of the guitar toward the middle of the track.

I want to ask you about your K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) motto. I’ve played in a couple of bands where everything just seems so cluttered. You know, five or six people sitting around making music together but there are so many melodies and submelodies and….

Exactly! That’s where it really comes from. You know, it’s a really natural hting. We’ve all been in bands before this with larger lineups and we just like to keep it simple. We’ve got guitar, bass, drums, keys. One on each. It doesn’t over-complicate things and we can enjoy the music more.

Lastly, before you get ready for tonight, what is next for Disaster March?

We’ve got a few more songs in the works right now, but really we are just focusing on playing some quality shows to hone our craft. It’s really up to Fr. Time what will happen next, but we’re having a great time playing shows and getting new fans!

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Beacon (noun) a person or thing that illuminates or inspires
Strand (noun) the land bordering the sea, a lake, or a river; shore; beach

What is the reasoning behind the band name and who choose it?

Our name, Disalto, was sort of stumbled upon randomly when Joe was thumbing through a dictionary one day for some cerebral stimulation. It’s an old Italian word that means “by leaps” so we felt it had some depth and character. We figured that it would be a good way to remind ourselves that our music must continue to evolve and push forward.

Your new album One Beacon in the Strand was just released, how did you choose that title?

We feel that our album title is a sort of microcosm of the Los Angeles music scene. It seems like there is a lot of the same music being released out there, especially in the rat race known as L.A. I guess we thought that it would be best to at least convince ourselves that we were doing something different.

What is the song that you are most excited to show your fans now that the album is out?

To be honest, there is no one song in particular that we are more proud of…..it’s kinda like choosing your favorite child.  We’re proud that we were able to change the writing process and improve our songwriting overall. Each song came from a different place with different emotions, but they each serve their own purpose on this album and we hope that it is received well as a whole.

You guys had the privilege of playing the Vans Warped Tour, which many refer to as punk-rock summer camp, what was that experience like for Disalto?

You may refer to it as a punk rock summer camp, but we’ll refer to it as a boot camp.  Don’t get us wrong, we were stoked and privileged to be on the same bill with bands such as Thrice, Bad Religion and Underoath, but for a relatively unknown band such as ourselves, it was baptism by fire.  As I am sure with all first time bands, the Warped Tour forces you to improvise, roll with the punches, and show the kids a bad ass show at all costs…..and at the end of the day, we can honestly say we did that. We learned a lot about ourselves and if asked to play it again, we would do it in a heartbeat!!….can someone say summer 2011??

Most bands refer to each other as brothers, but Disalto actually has two brothers, Joe and Dave, do you guys tend to gang up on the others?

Nope….we gang up on Dana!! After all, he is the youngest and he takes it like a champ!

How did all of you meet?

Well, Dave and Joe are obviously womb buddies…..Carlos started tagging along after he was kicked out of his house at age 6 for reckless behavior……Dana was found hitchhiking to L.A. from Bakersfield and we found Oren selling Dead Sea Products at a kiosk in a random mall.

If all of you were given a super power each tomorrow, what would they be and would you change your band name to reflect them?

Dave would like to have the power of Telekinesis so he can change people’s minds. Dana would like to be invisible so he could hide from all his frantic admirers. Oren would like to be able to fly so he didn’t have to drive in L.A. traffic anymore (it’s scary to watch). Carlos would like the regenerative powers of Wolverine so he could stage dive at will, even when the venue is empty. And Joe would like to be a shape shifter so he could turn into a Jonas Brother and cause a massive train wreck on stage in front of thousands of annoying teens…..then quit the band. As for our band name, it would stay the same, but we would have some interesting side projects!

What is the best tour prank you have played on each other or another band?

Considering that we’ve been together for at least 6 years, it is impossible to think of just one….and honestly, we don’t plan masterful pranks, but we tirelessly fuck around with each other. However, If we had to choose one, once when we were playing in Flagstaff Arizona, we threw one of Dana’s flip flops in the woods and told him it was poison ivy…he debated with himself for 20 minutes before mustering up the courage to hop on one foot and retrieve his beloved flip flop…..needless to say, the one-legged man was unsuccessful and he fell in the NON Poison Ivy…..knowing this, we still let him run to the hose to wash off the potential infection that would never happen anyway!….we have it all on video!

If you find yourself in Pasadena, CA on July 6th, Disalto will be playing at The Terrace at 9:45. You can also find them here or on Facebook.

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What are your musical influences? Any bands to reference in relation to your music?

Personally, as the singer and songwriter of the band, I can only speak for myself as far as the musicians that have influenced me with my lyrics, melodies, etc. If I could pick, I’d choose Neil Young, Kurt Cobain, John Lennon (solo years), and Thom Yorke as many of my core influences.

Do you believe New York and the city itself has influenced your music? Why?

Yes, New York City has definitely influenced my music, especially with the writing process. NYC makes you fight back, and is a city surrounded by people fighting for their piece of the pie. There is definitely a motivated, aggressive part about New Yorkers where they want to just go out, have fun….but are still fighting for their slice of the pie with every move they make. You must earn your living, and everything that’s involved. So yes, the demanding aspect and fast-paced nature of the city has surely influenced our music.

Dead or Alive: What musician would you dream to play with?

Tough question…but I’d have to say Neil Young. The guy has literally seen everything – and he’s made a record in all genres. So it’d be great to jam with him in different areas of music. I’d love to pick his brain. But, if I wanted to step out of the edge a bit – I would love to follow Thom Yorke around for a day.

What’s the one thing you think everyone should do before they die?

Simple: climb Machu Picchu

If you could listen to 1 album for the rest of your life – what would it be?

Honestly, the new XX record. It’s incredible.

Favorite hot spots in NYC?

The thing about NYC is that it is an ever-changing battle there. As soon as someone finds out about something, it’s no longer a hot spot! Then….the crowd is off to the next place. However, I do love the East Village and Lower East Side of the city. The Thai places, nitty gritty rock and roll bars, and the fancy rooftop hotels are great. They incorporate such an attitude about them, with a new fusion, and a “balls to the wall” attitude.

The inevitable question: why Red Directors? How did you get the name?

I’m fascinated with Russian history, and when the Soviet Union fell, the guys that held the Soviet muscle had to go through a group of men called the Red Directors. Hence, the name.

If you could have any actor star in your next music video, who would it be?

Charlize Theron. She’s not your normal Hollywood star. She’s gone through such an incredible life, is a serial monogamist, and is incredibly sexy.

Any guilty music pleasures? Do you have the Bieber fever?

(Laughs) No. Fortunately, I do not have the Bieber fever. Guilty pleasures though… I actually have a name for mine. I have a radio station that is constantly in my head, called “shit rock radio.” The songs range from Air Supply, to Aaron Neville, to any other cheesy artist you can think of. I can’t get the station out of my head!

Best concert you’ve ever been to?

During summer 2001, I saw the Radiohead “Kid A/Amnesiac Tour” overlooking the twin towers, and the Statue of Liberty. Most amazing show I’ve seen.

Find Red Directors at www.myspace.com/reddirectors or www.reddirectors.com

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I just wanted to share some of his music with all of you because – not only is he’s a good guy and deserves to be heard – BUT his music is fucking good AND is about as Musicgoat friendly as it gets. The tunes throughout their “Funky Poetz” CD incorporate a variety of influences; funk, metal, pop and a few others things I can’t really pinpoint cuz I’m writing this at a point way past my bedtime.

Anyway, check out this laid back video for one of their newest tunes, “We Ain’t Saying Nothin” and then head over to EggshellEgoz.com, listen to more and pick up a CD.

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How did you come up with the band name Raven Parade?

I came up with the name Raven Parade because I am a big fan of Edgar Allen Poe and the poem “The Raven.” The Parade comes from, the celebration of all that is no longer here; hence the name Raven Parade. A celebration of all that is light and dark, here and not here.

What is the story behind Raven’s eccentric style?

The Story behind Raven’s style is, it’s just that, the style steams from my life story and is displayed through sound using my emotions to be expressed by an instrument that sounds like the feeling; I start from there end up where ever the truth in the flow takes me. It’s usually a fusion of classics from soulful greats to futuristic turntablism & beats that inspire me.

What is the driving force behind you lyrics? Which song are you most proud of?

The driving for behind my lyrics is just my passion to express myself and my feelings. The song that I most proud of, I haven’t recorded it yet. ;o) (wink).

In your new music video “My Prey”, you play the two main characters. What was that like? How was it working with yourself as a co-star?

In the “My Prey” video the thought of having two of my personalities showing at once is pretty much the reason behind the entire CD.  It’s that time in the character’s life where she has to make a choice on which way do you go in life after learning all that she has learned and is still learning? How do you answer that?  I guess you just break it all down into a series of events receive it and move on without judgement. (I hope I answered that right) The actual shoot…I hired a double. Praticia Grant from London, England. She was a gem to work with.

Your new album is entitled Looking Glass, does that have anything to do with Alice in Wonderland’s through the Looking Glass?

The album was recorded before I even knew there was going to be a big “Alice in Wonderland” return to the pop culture for front. I was just expressing where I was at the time.  I would love to admit there being a cool connection with the universe and myself, but it’s a charming coincidence!

If you were ever to get stuck in “Traffic on Mars,” what alien from a movie would you want to see in the car next to you?

Neytiri from Avatar played by Zoe Saldana, she seems to know her way out of a jam.

What famous musicians would you like to be in Raven Parade?

WoW what famous musicians who I like to be in “Raven Parade?”  Hmmm, Danny Carey on Drums, Bootsy Collins on Bass, Stevie Wonder on keys, Slash Hudson on lead guitar!  And of course with that line-up, I would have to replace me with a lead vocalist with a mixture of Chaka Khan & Sade!  That would be a Dream team Raven Parade.

Find Raven Parade on MySpace and Facebook.

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I was in Vegas a few weeks ago for a music conference and I had the pleasure of meeting two of these three very cool guys in this video.

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What inspires your lyrics?

So many things inspire me these days. When I wrote the lyrics for “Make It Land,” I was in a committed relationship that I was trying to express my gratitude for, and also seeing a previous failed relationship for what it was. Just kind of exploring the emotions that came out of that breakup and the emotional withdrawal I experienced from being with her. The songs were written over the course of a couple of years, so there were those different themes to the lyrics.

We hear you are quite the dodge ball player, how, if at all, does that influence your music?

On the dodge ball court I get to be a totally different guy. Like a comic book character. It doesn’t really influence my music, but I like to think that what makes me a good dodge ball player (communication, being present, and being a good sport in the end) also help me as a songwriter and performer.

Are there any epic dodge ball stories we should know about?

I’ve experienced both extremes of tragedy and triumph on the dodge ball courts. Recently my team, Winner Winner Chicken Dinner, played on the Staples Center court for the West LA league championship and won. I’ve definitely had some great individual moments out there as a player as well. Like times at open gym where I’m the last person in on my side and I end up taking out the 8 players on the other side to win the game myself. Stuff like that. It’s so much fun!

What is it like being a street performer on the Santa Monica Promenade, knowing that most people are there to shop instead of listening to music like they would at a typical venue?

The first year I went out there, it was kinda rough. I had this expectation that a huge crowd was gonna form around me, that I’d sell thousands of albums, etc. I slowly came to realize that I wasn’t a show-stopping attractive girl, wasn’t singing covers, and wasn’t exactly doing a lot to make my performance a “street show.” Then it dawned on me that I didn’t have anything to prove to anyone out there, that I could just have fun. And the crowd that goes out there… they show their respect for you in more ways than giving you their undivided attention or tips. I get a big kick out of seeing the small signs of appreciation. The smiles, the bobbing heads, the peace signs, the toddlers dancing. The things I enjoy most about street performing are being outside, connecting with people, and being able to test out new songs.

You have a paper crane on your album cover, what is the craziest piece of origami you can make?

There’s a frog I know how to fold that takes about 10 minutes. You have to make the piece of paper more or less like a chessboard with all the fold lines. So many folds!

Currently, you are being played on over 65 college radio stations, have you heard yourself on the radio yet? What station do you want to hear yourself on?

I haven’t heard myself on anything but internet radio from that, but I’m sure it’ll happen when it’s supposed to. I’d love to hear myself on KCRW (in Santa Monica). They are really selective and didn’t add me to rotation. Maybe they’ll dig my next album!

If another musician covered one of your songs, who would you want it to be and which song?

I think Jack Johnson should cover “Sunday Afternoon” because it’s totally his kind of chill, peaceful song. Finger picked rhythm and laid back vocal delivery, all that jazz.

Since you live near the beach, if you knew a tsunami was coming which one of your original songs would you perform and why, “Lay Back and Die” or “Hold On”?

I’m sure I could think of other things to do in those conditions, but if I were to pick between performing those songs, I’d pick “Lay Back and Die” because I think that song is more about acceptance of what is—about realizing that we don’t have to struggle or strive to be satisfied with life. We could just lay back and die because we are so content. That’s definitely the emotional space I’d want to be in if I knew something catastrophic was about to happen.

To listen to John Clinebell visit him on Facebook or at JohnClinebell.com

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In this installment we each went deep into our personal archives to dig out some tunes that are either not well know (and good) or are very old and have special meaning.

Go listen to Cranium Melody IV now and check out all the links and videos in the show notes (great job Greg and Joe).

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What I’m going to start doing here on Musicgoat is write up a quick monthly summary of the songs Fingertips has featured by pointing you to one song out of three each week–I’ll give you the link and a very brief description. This is the digest version to be sure. On the site itself, the reviews are longer and more descriptive; my aim is to give the reader a strong sense of what each song sounds like and I why I think it’s particularly good. And remember, because I’m picking just three songs every week, all three of them are really quite excellent, so it would be a great idea for you to go visit the site to hear all three songs each week.

Thanks to Corey for the invite, and let’s get right into it with an abridged look at what I picked out for May. Remember, these songs are all available as free and legal MP3s that you can download to your heart’s content.

Week 1:
“Let the Record Go” – The Mynabirds
A slice of stompy, retro perfection from Laura Burhenn, who used to be half of the duo Georgie James. The entire album is highly recommended. (Read the entire review.)

(Other artists featured week 1: The National, Hey Marseilles)

Week 2:
The Mermaid Parade – Phosphorescent
Both laid back and expansive, this one brings a slow-burning quality to its sauntering vibe. Phosphorescent is a Brooklyn-based band featuring Matthew Houck and whomever else he can get to play with him at the time. (Read the entire review.)

(Other artists featured week 2: Villagers, Beach House)

Week 3:
“The Kiss” – Pallers
A graceful, beautifully unfolding electronic dance-ballad, from Sweden. Builds without hurrying to a moving climax. (Read the entire review.)

(Other artists featured week 3: Sarah Blasko, The King Left)

Week 4:
“Captive” – Sarah Harmer
This super-talented Canadian returns after a bluegrass project to some straight-ahead pop. Very appealing. (Read the entire review.)

(Other artists featured week 4: Light Pollution, Sarah Jaffe)

You can read the reviews and listen to the free and legal MP3s on Fingertips every week. Better yet, subscribe to the RSS feed and you’ll never miss any of the songs.

Thanks for looking the picks over and maybe giving a listen. Keep reading Musicgoat and I’ll be back in early July with the June highlights from Fingertips.

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What’s your mission as a band?

Our mission as a band is to raise awareness about Human Trafficking and all forms of abuse occurring in our communities and around the world.

We know you’re not a fan of violence, but you perform with a black eye painted on your face so I must ask, if you could fight anyone who would you fight?

That’s right I’m not a fan of violence. There are usually acceptable alternatives to handle the vast majority of situations. I wear a black eye as a symbol for all the abused people around the world. The only time I believe violence is acceptable is when you are helping or protecting someone who can’t protect themselves.

Who or what inspires you to make music?

What inspired me to make our music and start All The Abused was learning about Human Trafficking. I have always had a love for music but once I learned about human trafficking, I truly felt like I found my mission— to raise awareness about human trafficking and abuse through music.

You have a song called “I’ll Never Be a Rock Star.” Who do you wish never became a rock star?

If I had to pick a person, I would pick the character of Ike Turner since he was involved in abusive relationships.

Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers?

Yes, we play a lot of Top 40 Rock covers, everything from classic rock, southern rock, contemporary, and oldies. Out of our original songs, I would say we play “I Don’t Care,” “Hope Love Peace Help Friends” and ”I’ll Never Be a Rock Star” the most.

Orange County is known for producing some great bands, Social Distortion, No Doubt, etc., why do you think that is? What makes the OC so special?

Definitely, a lot of amazing bands have come out of Orange County. I think it is because there are so many talented musicians out here looking to form great bands and share their music with the world. For me, those gifted musicians are what make Orange County so special because I love hearing great live music as much as possible.

Finally, you have hot air balloon on your site. Which leads to the question, if you were floating back to Kansas from Oz on a hot air balloon, what song from The Wizard of Oz would you sing on your way back?

Well, If All The Abused was floating back to Kansas from Oz on our hot air balloon, then I think we would sing “If I only had a heart” from  The Wizard of Oz. My favorite lines from that song are, “Just because I’m presumin’ That I could be kinda human, If I only had a heart. I’d be tender, I’d be gentle, And awful sentimental…” I really feel that song shows that if you have a heart and you are humane, that’s all that matters. Just as we say in our song “I Don’t Care” – DNA is insignificant, it’s just about being humane.

Visit All The Abused on MySpace, Facebook and if you go to their site, you’ll soon find that they’re giving away a free download.

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Your music has a very authentic punk-rock sound, unlike so many of these new “punk” bands today, who are some of your major influences?

Well, we don’t necessarily consider ourselves a “punk band”, but punk rock did influence our playing in the early years. We’re heavily influenced by many different genres of music over many decades, such as metal, country, jazz, and classic rock. But when it comes to our actual sound, our biggest influences are Foo Fighters, Hot Water Music, Nirvana, Alkaline Trio, Queens of the Stone Age, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix and The Who among many others.

It’s clear from your band photos and songs such as “Whiskey” that you like to drink, what is your favorite poison?

We’re all in to drinking craft and microbrewed beer. Pretty much anything from breweries such as Stone, Lost Abbey/Port, New Belgium, etc. We’re also a big fan of whiskey and scotch; with Maker’s Mark, Jack Daniels, MaCallan and McClelland’s being a few of our favorites.

Who in the band has the strongest ‘will’?

All three of us moved from the Midwest to Southern California to follow our dreams, so it’s safe to say that we all have a strong will. No matter where we live, no matter what our “day jobs” are, we’ve always made music. We started in a garage in single-digit temperatures, with hand-me-down gear. Now we’re in a house that has an isolated three room recording studio, but our drive is still the same.

What is the concept behind the name “The Will”? How about the album art?

It’s essentially the will, or the drive, to follow your heart and do what you love to do. High energy was a big theme when we were writing the music, so we felt that is was only fitting to have our artwork reflect that. It also didn’t hurt that our backyard was filled with high-tension wires and it was something that we looked at every day while writing the record.

With three-piece groups, band members are usually like family, tell us about some family feuds?

Well, it all started with Richard Dawson, then Ray Combs came along, but Dawson eventually came back in the mid 90’s. After he left, Louie Anderson took over. Then Richard Karn and John O’Hurley each did four year stints. The current show is hosted by Steve Harvey.

But seriously, we’ve been in bands together since 1999, so we’ve fought about anything and everything you can think of. But the feuds obviously weren’t that serious or else we wouldn’t be still be playing music together.

If you won “The Lottery” what band would you pay to stop playing music?

The song “The Lottery” is kind of the exact opposite of the name “The Will”. It’s about the people that spend their whole lives waiting to win the lottery, before they would consider pursuing their dreams. But if we ever did win the lottery, we’d never telling anyone to stop playing music for any reason.

What song on your new album has the most energy live?

“The Lottery” is always a great way to kick off a show and get the crowd going. “Whiskey” is the most energetic for both us and the crowd. It follows somewhat of a free-form structure when we play it live, determined by the rowdiness of the crowd.

Find The Will on MySpace and The Sixty One

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In my position at Cowbell, I take care of our online presence and assist artists in establishing a presence for themselves online. Sometimes they are ahead of the game, spread across the Internet, posting regular Youtube videos etc, while some are not even aware of the power behind social platforms like Twitter. I also source relevant information for independent artists to provide them with the necessary tools to remain relevant, present and engaging with the people that matter the most – their fans.

I came across this video over the weekend from the latest Tech Crunch conference, DISRUPT, in New York. The title of the video alone peaked my interest, “Success Strategies for Musicians in the Digital Era.”

Hmmm, what magical formula will they suggest? This is probably just another ’social media expert’ with their run-of-the-mill ‘tips and tricks’. Well actually, I was wrong…

The two speakers are Troy Carter, Founder & CEO, Coalition Media Group and worldwide Manager for Lady Gaga and Scooter Braun, Founder & Chair, SB Projects and worldwide Manager for Justin Bieber … only the two biggest stars of the current music world … and incidentaly, the two artists that have indeed successfully harnessed online strategies to their advantage.

Here is the video link.

And here is a quick run down on the main points of the video, what I personally derived from the discussion and how that may relate to the independent artist.

1. Youtube is one of the main places that artists are now ‘discovered’ by both labels, managers and most importantly … fans.

A lot of people think they already know this, but:

* How many Youtube videos have you uploaded?
* How often do you provide Youtube content?
* Are you using a variety of techniques on Youtube? (i.e are you speaking to your fans, with your fans, about your fans … as opposed to posting a new music clip every now and then).

Justin Bieber, while a unique case, did not automatically have hundreds of millions of Youtube views. Even he had to build that (with the help, strategy and knowledge of his manager and team).
At Cowbell Digital Music, we are looking to introduce Cowbell TV so that the artists on our platform have a ready-made audience and can be promoted effectively but your own Youtube channel is important to make that connection with your fans.

2. The speakers were quite reluctant to discuss the monetization of Youtube, though it is a difficult topic to side-step with such huge names. They did however, stress the importance of treating social media as a communication device, not a ‘tool’. Whether it is true or not, their argument lies in the fact that both Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga like to interact with their fans on a personal level. The catch? The artist has to want to be engaged. You may be wondering what that even means – in a practical sense. An example from the video is that Justin Bieber spends 2 hours a day on Twitter. If you don’t have two hours to spend on twitter, spend one hour, or even 30 minutes, simply engaging with people online and  watch as your fan base builds.

3. There is a balance between using social media to a ‘business advantage’ and engaging with people on a relatable and personal level.

Some people just don’t know how to use social media. They aren’t sure what they can say, when they can say it, or are worried about how it may come across. Do not worry about this! Write what you want to write, when you feel like writing it (within reason!). This is expected across social media. Fans, followers and facebook ‘likers’ know that you have something to sell, they know that you will tell them about your upcoming show or ask them to buy the album or single BUT they also expect something in return … and that is to get to know who you are.

4. Activity on Twitter is essential if only for the immediacy it provides and the personal relationship that it can potentially build.

Twitter is an amazing platform for the immediacy it provides. If you start talking with someone on Twitter, it’s not hard work (140 characters!) an the chances that they will follow back are high because you have shown an interest. If you have no interest, don’t talk to people on twitter; but also be prepared to have no followers!

5. In the “new music economy,” music has to become a multimedia business.

While you still have to engage the traditional channels – as Scooter states – “It’s hard work … you still have to pay homage to radio and kiss a lot of butt,” it is essential to embrace all forms of media, (including – or I should say, especially – social media) to succeed and build a fanbase that will turn up to the ‘main game’ (touring) and build a network that will support you and buy your merchandise when you are at that stage.

6. I think the final point is still important and that is “if you’re promoting shit, it’s still shit.” The indie artist should be sure to produce the best product possible and let it speak for itself … with (of course) some assistance from Youtube, Facebook, Myspace, Twitter…….

Go and upload a Youtube video engaging with your fans and send it through for us to check out!

Casey Stewart

Online Marketing Coordinator, Cowbell Digital Music

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1. Launching in the Digital Age
2. Guest Blogger – Shayne Locke from Cowbell Digital Music
3. Music Marketing Strategies: Where You can Send Your Music Demos

RnR has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with some big named artists, such as Snopp Dogg, Ice Cube, Bone Thugs n Harmony and many more, who has been the most fun?

T.I. at Thomas and Mack.  The vibe was different because it was his last west coast performance before incarceration

In every band there is always the shy guy, the crazy guy, the heartthrob, etc, what role does each person play in RnR?

K-NYCE (keys): The Shy Guy – Baby Face
Bane (emcee): The Crazy Guy
A-1ne (emcee): The Spiritual One
Tadow (drums): The Great Debater
CoCojenkins  (bass): The Heartthrob and The Low Key One
Freddy Tiff (emcee): “Underwater Cadillac Pimpin’”
The Illipino (guitar): “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon”
Jerry Wayne (emcee): The Banker/Businessman

What song do you get the most excited to play live?

“Natural Disasters”

Have any of you ever had a personal experience with a real natural disaster?

We all have to say the recession.  Also, CoCojenkins was hit by a car right before a show not too long ago.

Why did RnR decide to have 4 emcees sharing vocal duties, instead of just one guy?

We didn’t have the heart to cut anyone! We all got dirt on each other! haha. No, seriously. The emcees started the group. The band came afterward.  They all bring something different.

What is the music scene like in Las Vegas?

Better now that we’re in it!  It’s growing.  More venues are opening up to live music.  There’s more talent thanks to Bush for f*cking up the economy.

If you were short on cash and had to become a Las Vegas streetwalker, what would your alias be?

Bane: Luke Thighwalker
The Illipino: Pimpapino
Freddy Tiff: Freddy Make Ya Feel Good
K-NYCE: Steve Urkel
Tadow: Dark Chocolate mixed with Black Velvet
A-1ne: Dolla Bill
CoCojenkins: G-string
Jerry Wayne: Wayne Glade

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How did you guys come up with your name?

It was some years ago my brother and I needed a name for our musical group. We couldn’t come up with a name. Then we picked up a dictionary and decided to go with the first word we came across. I came across the word Applepolish. I liked the sound of that word and felt that it went well with the music we were making.

Do you find it difficult to be in a band with a sibling or is it a bonus?

We get along very well and are used to working together. We have worked together consistently and successfully for a while now.

If you were put in a dance-off contest with fellow Colombian, Shakira what song would you dance to in order to show her up?

If it’s a Latin song, then En Barranquilla Me Quedo by Joe Arroyo, another fellow Colombian, because we’re both from the city of Barranquilla and we can have a Salsa dance off.

If it’s one of her songs, I’d dance to Hips Don’t Lie and we can see who moves their hips the best.

If it’s one of our songs, I’d have her dance to Bandwagon and see if she can help us create a special dance for that song.

You guys write, produce, record and engineer your own music as well as videos, is this something you guys went to school for?

We have been self-developing these skills on our own for years. First we started with keyboards, then to bass, and eventually to guitar. The recording process also developed over time with each demo and song that we recorded. Eventually we felt ready to record Spirit Threads and are currently working on a new EP for the fall and a new CD for early 2011.

What are your individual strengths when it comes to making music?

Our best strengths are in the production and artistic qualities of the music and songwriting.

If someone were to make a movie about Applepolish, whom would you want to play both of you?

David Blaine would play Johan Palacio and Marc Antony would play Richard Palacio, hehe.

Good choices!

Find them on MySpace and Facebook-go on, support the D.I.Y. goodness

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How did you come up with the name SideFX?

Side FX was a play on words.  I actually cannot take the credit.  My co-writer, Chris Nikpora, came up with the name.  We thought, ‘wonder what music would sound like if you mixed different genre’s together with a rock vibe’ (e.g. jazz, middle eastern riffs, classical, hiphop)—a kind of ‘side effect’ to traditional rock and roll.  From there, Chris turned the words Side Effect into Side FX.

The song “Let’s Paint This Town” has some interesting lyrics; can you expand on what inspired you to write this song?

Oh, yes it does.  I was curious about this whole ‘cougar’ appeal. I am certainly approached by a lot of young men these days—more so than any other time that I can recall.  I interviewed 7 women for this song. So really, it is a compilation of their stories.  All 7 had some definite opinions on dating younger men and most of them had direct experience.  What became clear was they all liked the idea of dating a younger guy, but not one of them wanted a serious relationship with one.  I found that to be fascinating and decided to tell their collective story.  People, I think are confusing cougars with man eaters.  They really are two different individuals. My song is about a woman who knows what she wants and is in control. And, she is not a man eater, she just chooses to date younger men.

You recently finished the “It’s Your Turn” tour, how did that go?

Well, the tour continues throughout the year, but we are dividing it into different legs.  The first, in February, was across the Midwest.  The second leg, I just finished in Florida and the Carolinas.  Both were interesting, fascinating and a ton of fun.  I was curious to see how well my music would be received outside of DC.  I was pleasantly surprised to see a very wide demographic acceptance.  I think the Floridians were the most positive, but I had incredible feedback on all touring stops.

You’ve done a lot of work with veteran organizations. Can you tell us why this area is important to you and what is it that you’ve done?

I have always felt that we, as a society, do not express our thanks enough.  Today, thousands of men and women are coming home missing an arm or leg. These folks would have otherwise died if this were a war that was being fought 30 years ago.  We have, through technology, been able to save their lives on a physical level, but I am not sure on an emotional level, we are doing as much as we can.

For me, music is very therapeutic.  I cannot begin to understand what they have been through, but by sharing my music, I can share my appreciation for their dedication.  This tour, we have happily provided  free concerts at the hospitals in Georgia, North Carolina, Missouri, South Carolina, Florida and Washington, DC (which comes out of my pocket) and negotiated with each venue to allow the Vet’s into our concerts for free.

The band loves performing for the Vets….it just feels good.  I wish I could afford to do it for all of the medical centers—perhaps when I sell more albums?

What’s your favorite song to play live?

Hard question, but I would say “Amazing Dreams.”  This song performs so well live – it’s surprising.  It actually delivers chills.

If a CD got stuck in your CD player on tour, what CD would you want it to be?

Besides my own?  Well, right now, I am stuck on Howie Day’s new album.

Do you have any upcoming shows that you’re excited about?

We are putting together our first live internet show on May 20^th.  I wanted the ability to reach people across the globe.  The mechanics are becoming really challenging, but if all goes as planned, this should be a terrific show.

If you could travel to any Magic Land, where would you go and why?

At the heart of it all, I am a beach girl.  My best romantic experiences took place near or at the beach. To me, that alone has a bit of Magic into it. Drop me on the white sands of Crete or the pink beach in Bermuda and you’ll have one happy, happy singer!

To find out more about Side FX and find out how you can give back, visit their website or find them on Facebook.

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Your new EP Golden State of Mind was just finished, which track was the toughest to record?

I think “Pictures” was the most difficult to record just because it was so subtle in terms of the timing of the different parts. You might not notice, but there are no drums or percussion of any kind on that track.  We really had to have a really good feel for it. We experimented with a lot of stuff in the studio, including some percussion instruments I had never seen before. In the end, it turned out best without percussion. It worked out well. I think we ended up with what we were looking for.

What kind of music did you listen to growing up?

I was exposed to a lot of different stuff. My father was a DJ on local classic rock radio station so he was always playing southern rock like Skynrd, Boston, The Eagles and The Allman Brothers. I found my way into a lot of other genres as I grew up. Linkin Park has influenced me, Jay-Z influenced me in a way, Tupac, Metallica has as well. The older I got the more I began to explore older traditional country also. Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings. I’m influenced by some more current artists also. Jason Aldean is the main one. His sound really showed me that I could make music that moved me and it would still be accepted. Gary Allan is a huge musical influence on me also. Bluegrass artists like Allison Krauss and Ricky Skaggs help me a lot as well. I come from a very wide background musically.

If you could collaborate with any other artist who would it be?

I’ll have to answer this question twice, once as a songwriter and once as a singer. As a songwriter, I would absolutely love to collaborate with Jamey Johnson. In my opinion he is the best writer going right now, his catalogue for himself and for other artists is off the charts good. As a singer, I think I could die a happy man if I could sing a duet with Allison Krauss. That voice is unlike any other, now or ever.

You recently recorded a music video for “Friday Night on Fire,” did you guys play any pranks on each other behind the scenes?

We didn’t play any pranks per se, but there was a lot of joking around and ribbing going on between takes. We tease each other a lot in general, so there was a lot of “Dude, you broke the lens, try being less ugly next time!” Stuff like that, that’s all in good fun just to keep everyone loose and keep craniums from expanding, you know?

What is the best Friday night you’ve ever had and did it inspire the song?

It’s tough to choose just one. I suppose the one that leaps to mind is Garth Brooks’ “Ain’t Goin Down till the Sun Comes Up”. That song just has that Friday night feel to it all the way through. You just blast along through the song and enjoy the ride he takes you on. There were other songs though that had a similar effect in influencing that song. Hillbilly Deluxe by Brooks & Dunn, What Was I Thinkin by Dierks Bentley, All My Rowdy Friends by Hank Williams, Jr. All those songs were sort of the road map for creating “Friday Night on Fire.”

How long have you and your band, Cherokee Street been together?

Well, we’ve gone through a lot of flux with Cherokee Street, but my brother Sean has been the one constant and he’s been with me for about a year and a half since he got out here (the West Coast) after his military stint. The current lineup is about six months old right now, but I guess it’s a bit of a sliding scale.

If you had to choose, would you rather be stuck in the room with a seasick crocodile or a cougar?

Depends on which kind of cougar we’re talking about, the wild cat? Or like Morgan Fairchild? Either way, a seasick crocodile doesn’t sound like much fun, pretty gross.  I’ll take Morgan!

Visit Jess Mcguire on MySpace and Facebook.

-Sheena

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The Long Tail is a term that was first coined by Wired Magazine editor Chris Anderson. It is actually a very simple concept that describes the phenomenon of the online environment. It operates on the principle that 20% of the artists earn 80% of the music income and 80% of the artists earn 20% of the music income. In recent times the top of the tail has become even steeper with closer to 5% of the artists earning 95% of the income.

John Hyde of Leftclick offers an interesting picture of his interpretation of the long tail. Oversimplified for the Sesame Sreet viewers in all of us but it gets the point across. Not only are we in danger of being caught in the Long Tail, we are also in danger of becoming fossils if we don’t make changes.

Personally I prefer the view portrayed by gapingview.com which shows that the term should in fact be “The Short Tail” given the massive body count that occurs.

Indie artist, Cathleen Trezza, (www.firewispmusic.com) commented in a recent forum on the main issue that exists with the Long Tail, “There’s a million bands out there vying for your attention to hear a song enough times to fall in love with it for a while and buy it. The problem isn’t the free part, really. After all, if you gave out free copies of a song and earned an album sale at a rate of 1 out of 10, or 1 out of 100, or even 1 out of 1000 freebies, you could say the method works to generate sales. If you send out your album to venue owners (for free) and it gets you the paid gig, you could say that free works. If you give out your album (for free) to libraries and licensing shops and they find paid work for you, you could say that free works.”

I have to agree with Cathleen Trezza’s comments. The issue is not “free” music, the issue relates to what an artist is prepared to do in order to get themselves heard. Living anywhere in the Long Tail other than the front 5% is a hard struggle, so do we give fans a taste test or do we give them a whole meal hoping they will come back for another meal?

The toughest issue is that platforms like iTunes have pushed the artists at the top of the Long Tail even further up while those artists who, by choice or by default, find themselves at the end of the tail struggling to survive.
So what do they do? The question in their minds really should be “Do I want to remain anonymous and sell my music to people who stumble across me? Or should I be doing everything in my power and using all the tools available to get my music heard, hopefully driving future sales?” Unfortunately, for an artist, often the only thing worse than free music (or even piracy) is anonymity. If you are anonymous it is a hard slog to build a profile.

One final point … as an artist going through iTunes, will you ever see the database of your followers and have the ability to market to them? No you won’t. What we (Cowbell Digital Music) want (and are setting up) is a database that an artist can use to directly market to their fans and fans of their genre. The only way to increase the database is to increase the fan base so does the trade off equal free songs for information? And if such powerful data is provided then I ask the question … did you really give away the song for free?

I know this is an unusual stance, coming from the CEO of a digital music platform, but something has to be done to get an artist ‘out there’. I would love to hear from artists on this issue as we are building a new digital platform that aims to address these issues. The only way we can do this is by listening to the artists that it will affect. Feel free to link, email me or comment on this post.

Shayne Locke
Cowbell Digital Music – It’s Your Choice

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Not only is the tunage pretty tasty (if you are of the punk/metal ilk) but you can hear first hand what its like to be knee deep in the harder end of the Indie music scene and get an understanding of what its like to have hard core fans so dedicated that they tattoo - yes tattoo - your name and lyrics on their body.

Anyway, I just wanted to give you a heads up. Check out the interview with Mongrel on Social Blend.

Oh and if you are looking for a singing or drumming gig and you play in their style, you definitely want to check it out since they are looking for one of each.

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The ugly truth about being a musician is that it’s not only about the music. For evidence of this, simply turn on the radio.

Truly making it requires an understanding of business, marketing, PR, social media, distribution … the list is huge.

Problem is, those of us who care spent most of our time honing our sound, not getting an MBA. The moment I started to understand this is the moment I started becoming a collector of information in answer to these very key questions:

• How do I get as many people to hear my music as possible for the smallest amount of money?

• What the heck is online music marketing?

• How do I sort out all the junk on the Internet to find what truly works?

I was a bit lucky. Having a bit of a background in marketing, I knew all I had to do was find a way to apply those strategies to music. The problem was trying to condense all this information into a usable package.

Then I found Label 2.0, a site that not only professes to help you publish, communicate, distribute, convert and monetize your music, but also lays out everything I ever sought to learn in one neat, tidy package.

For weeks now, I’ve been soaking up everything they have to offer like a sponge and I’m proud to say that their strategies for Internet music marketing simply work.

Founders {Eric and Greg} built this course from the ground up out of proven real life, field tested techniques that translate your efforts into a tenfold marketing blitz. They understand the big picture. They understand musicians.

Within one week I was seeing fruit: over 20 new fans on my mailing list, and $30 worth of music sold. Those are real results, and over time, a real return on your investments in both my time and money.

If you want a winning career playing the music you love and you’re willing to do the legwork, this is the course for you. Check out Label 2.0 now!

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What songs on your album do you most like to play live?

There are 3 main songs that I enjoy playing for different reasons. With “XtraOrdinary”, I begin by beat-boxing and then loop that beatbox beat in my pedal while the band slowly build around it thru the song, it’s great to start something so small and end so big and the crowd always gets engaged in the process

I must have played “Human Race” over 150 times live and the guitar riff always gets people moving, that can only be a good thing. This song also works well acoustically, as well as with a full rockin band grooving behind me, and it’s also easy to do a live reggae version when the mood calls for it.

Finally, “Hey You” is a blast because by the final chorus most people are singing along and that’s when I really feel like “mission accomplished”.

What is your biggest inspiration behind your writing?

To offer something that is inspiring and insightful and may help fill a hole in the lives of people, who like me, feel something is missing sometimes. I wasn’t always turned on by everything around me growing up and loved the escape music provided and another way of seeing the world offered by the writers.

You are a producer, songwriter, multi instrumentalist, and a performer, which of these roles do you like the best?

The different roles move in waves. I do really like them all equally if in balance. Songwriting is a specific moment in time where I like to focus my existence on absorbing and reflecting. Then I hit a limit and want to bring them to life and playing the different instruments is a blast and allows me the chance to become a better player. Producing can be for myself or for another artist and often involves more of a ‘science’ in getting the best sound or arrangement. This is also when you can do the ‘editing’ that I wouldn’t do in the early writing stages. If I am producing for another artist it is also nice to take a break from my own thing and be more objective. Plus, you always learn so much working with other people. Performing is a whole other rush, whatever nerves there may be initially, are quickly transformed into bliss—channeling all the different emotions thru my voice onstage feels like the purest form of expression I have ever known.

If you were broke and had to dress up like a character and stand outside Mann’s Chinese Theatre, who would you dress up as and why?

Ha! That’s funny  I was walking by there yesterday. Off the top of my head—Ace Ventura .  I think any Jim Carrey character gives you a huge license to just be a total whack job in public and get away with it ;-P

What was your favorite album growing up?

Acchhh, do I have to pick only one!! Ok, I need to pick 3.

Blood Sugar Sex Magic by Red Hot Chili Peppers. Wow, blew my mind, total pinnacle of all their talents blending perfectly: creative, fun, deep. I can still listen to that and feel the same rip of energy as the day it came out. This was essential pubescent listening!

Euphoria Morning by Chris Cornell. Although this kinda flopped at the time, I was enraptured by the very musical and soulful musings of Soundgarden’s frontman. This album plays like a friend by your side, you can tell he had been waiting a while to show this other face of his talents. Every song is perfection, there isn’t a single wasted note here and of course, that VOICE!

Songs In The Key Of Life As a child I found an old unmarked cassette copy left in an abandoned cupboard and I started listening to it and never looked back. I didn’t know who it was for years, but Stevie Wonder taught me most of what I needed to know.

Have you ever thought of writing rap songs under the pseudonym D-Lux?

Ha, another great question, I think I’ll spare the world my rapping. Any attempts at ‘freestyling’ usually slide into potty mouth pretty quickly – although Eminiem made a whole career of that….

Find Darius on MySpace, Facebook and Twitter

-Sheena

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Soon I will be starting a series on Piracy but until then let’s take stock of today and where we see ourselves being in the future. One authority is “music futurist”, Gerd Leonhard. His site, http://mediafuturist.com gives us an inkling. Music 2.0 is Gerd’s way of describing where we are all poised, the brink of a new era that will see more mobile content and less physical cds.

This is where the future starts, with a term called “Music like Water.”  The Future of Music is treating music like water. Music readily available whenever it is needed and as important to life as water is to the body. The ability to buy music will be as easy as turning on a tap. An almost unconscious decision because it is so accessible.

Once the change occurs, issues such as piracy will become a moot point. What is the point of piracy when a song is so readily available anyway. Does this mean that as musicians we lose the value of the song along with the income.  We shouldn’t lose either. Even under the Music Like Water model, the music only “Feels Like Free”. There are plenty of models that operate under the almost free system. It not only encourages the embracing of new music, it allows the artists towards the end of “the long tail” to finally be heard.

There are several terms used in this blog like “The Long Tail” and “Feels Like Free” that need to be explained so stay tuned for the next couple of weeks as I look into the concept of each and how it will affect us all in the music industry.

The Future of the music industry is about to be turned on its head. Are you ready?

Shayne Locke
Cowbell Digital Music – It’s Your Choice

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What inspired the name Youth Sounds?

I was thinking about band names and what would go well with our sound and Youth Sounds just seemed to fit with what we were doing. Our music is really driven by a sense of nostalgia.  I feel that as we get older our memories are intermingled with a handful of pop songs and albums that really meant something significant to us during the time the memory was being created. I want Youth Sounds to have that affect on people. So, hopefully in a couple of years when people think back on what they were listening to, maybe one of our songs will be tied to one of their memories.

Is it harder or easier to be in a band with your sibling?

I would have to say that it’s a lot easier being in a band with my sibling. We’ve been working together for so long that we’ve reached an understanding with one another. We respect each other’s form of artistic expression and trust each other’s ideas and opinions completely. I trust that any decision she makes will be made for the betterment of the band and that the end result would be a positive one and not at all detrimental. I believe that she shares this point of view as well, and the confidence we have in one another really affects all our musical endeavors.

As brother and sister, what is the worst argument you’ve gotten into?

I can’t really recall any intense arguments we’ve had in recent years. We’re actually really close so we don’t get into it when we disagree about something, but believe me, as kids we had some genuinely ridiculous arguments to say the least. There’s one minor spat that comes to mind that ends with Erika’s foot in a wall, lol. I will spare the long details on how she got her foot in the wall but let’s just say that the result of that argument was the both of us getting into some major trouble, hahaha.

Who are your influences and do they differ between the two of you?

They definitely vary between the both of us. We’re a very musical family and we’ve been surrounded by music all our lives, so our appreciation for different genres started very early. Our grandparents and parents have been a huge influence, introducing us to so many artists with varying styles and sounds.  So we’re very open in our selection of music and I believe that has really helped us find our bands sound. Erika is really into soulful artist with unique voices and will freely admit that she’s a sucker for some good ol’ R&B. My music selection changes daily whether I’m listening to all of David Bowie’s albums or Broken Social Scene, Ryan Adams, or Billy Holliday. It all depends on what I’m in the mood for.

You’ve just finished recording your new EP The Bit Parts what song are you most excited to show other people?

Honestly, we’re very excited about all the songs on this EP. We’re ready to get them out there and into people’s hands so that they can hopefully enjoy the music we’re making. This EP has been a long time coming and we want to share it with whomever is willing to listen. And if not, we’re just gonna have to hit the streets with our instruments and harass passersby with our obnoxious singing, hahaha.

Was it always a party growing up in the capital of Mardi Gras?

Yeah it’s definitely always a party down here in the big easy. No joke, this is the city that will turn anything into a party no matter what it is. It could be something arbitrary, like ending your shift at work, or important, like your kid graduating from kindergarten. You’ll have all these kids together on a space walk and all the adults getting plastered, partying it up. For all the locals, Mardi Gras has become something you learn to survive. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a really beautiful and a unique experience but it is in no way convenient for the locals. Basically, the whole city shuts down, so you can imagine how difficult it can be getting from one point to the other. But growing up in a city with so much culture and life is absolutely a plus, no doubt about it.

One of the tracks on The Bit Parts is called “As Strangers Would,” which leads me to the question have you ever taken candy from a stranger?

No, I can’t say that I’ve ever taken candy from a stranger. I wonder if anyone does that any more?

From what I understand, the members of Youth Sounds have been in the music game for a long time. This is just their latest project. So go on, become a friend on MySpace why don’t ya.

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The name of my debut CD is “Never Too Late”. You can check out every song by stopping by the music page on my site PlanetCorey.com.

Better yet, can get 3 of my downloads, each with a personal introduction, for free by visiting my fanlist signup page now.

If you want to review it, all I ask is that you are completely honest. You can either put your thoughts in the comments below, on my artist site, your blog OR if you have a site or social media profile (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc), you could share and post it there.

Anyway, go grab your tunes now. I’m excited to hear what you think.

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Cranium Melody III

I just wanted to pass on a little something for you listening pleasure. Every 3 or 4 months I get together with the guys from Social Blend (Joe and Gregg) to talk about underrated and/or little known bands and artists.

I know you are going to dig it because it really doesn’t get much more “Musicgoat” than the fairly wide spectrum of music we play and discuss (some metal, country, Americana, hard rock and some indie alternative. What we do is pick a few selection and then tell a story about each (which generated some good, meaty discussion as well).

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How did you guys all meet?

Jason: We’re from all over, so this is one of those complex stories, not one of your “childhood friend” deals. Foster and I played in a band called The Halogens, and when that wasn’t fun anymore I formed The Luxury with him and three other great musicians who decided they didn’t want to tour, forcing us to look for new players. We found Daanen through the band he was in at the time, Justin through an internet message board, and Borek… now that I think of it we found Borek through Craigslist, of all places.

Justin: I had kind of been keeping my ear to the ground for a year or so, and waiting for one of the bands I respected to be suddenly without a bass player. The second I saw an ad out for the Luxury, I pounced on it.

Daanen: I played guitar for the Ultra Sonic Rock Orchestra here in Boston four years ago. Our singer’s girlfriend was one of the performers in the show and told me that her boyfriend was auditioning guitarist for his newly forming band. She got me a demo, I learned the tunes and the rest is history baby!!

What is the best part of the Boston music scene?

Justin: Definitely the sense of community that’s all over the scene lately. Whenever I go out in town, I know I’m going to see a million of my friends. And so many of them are in bands that I was already a huge fan of, before I ever knew them personally. Dudes who were like huge celebrities to me, and now they want to buy me a beer.

You were recently invited to open for Coldplay, how did that occur?

Jason: Well, Coldplay decided to showcase a bunch of bands from markets they were playing in on their North American tour, so they contacted radio stations in each area looking for submissions. I think about 500 videos were submitted in Boston, and WFNX whittled it down to 15. That must have been fun. The public voted on the 15 entries, which included our friends in the amazing bands Township, Aloud and The Motion Sick, and the top three were sent to Coldplay to pick their favorite. They chose little old us, and the show was awesome.

Justin: I’ll just add the fact that everybody in the Coldplay camp were ridiculously cool to us. Chris Martin himself even popped in to make sure we had everything we needed.

In your video for “Malcontent” King Puppethead sings the vocals, was he a difficult person to work with?

Jason: You know, I try not to be rude or dismissive in interviews, but that guy’s an unbelievable pain in the ass. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a sock puppet demand a trailer and a personal assistant. Originally I was hoping for a Boglin, but when the auditions were all done he was the only one that could lip-sync in time while playing the piano. We didn’t talk for about a year after that video shoot, and he occasionally posted rude blog comments about me which I tried to ignore. Lately he’s mellowed out a bit, especially after starring in his own video, “Happy In My Misery”, which you can find on YouTube. I can’t begrudge him his talent, no matter how abusive he can be on-set.

Daanen: Very demanding with his wants and needs at some points. He got payed in the end whatever…. I’m not calling him to go out for a beer anytime soon though, that’s for sure.

Justin: I wouldn’t know. He stayed in his trailer the whole time, and wouldn’t associate with any of us. Between you & me, I think he’s maybe got a blow problem.

The Luxury is a great band name, how did you come up with it?

Jason: Oddly enough I offered it to my friend Moose when he was forming a new project. We were on the phone together trying to come up with something for him and I picked up a Marillion CD from ‘94 that included the song “Alone Again in the Lap of Luxury”, and suggested The Luxury to him. He loved it, but so did I; eventually, I kind of asked for it back. He’s about the nicest guy ever, so he had no problem with that. I have no idea what else we’d call ourselves, though. Sonically it makes perfect sense, the music being as big and full as we can make it… and if you look at how we actually live it’s both ironic, on a societal level, and completely true on a global level. The concept of luxury changes a lot depending on your perspective.

Visit The Luxury on MySpace or Facebook.

-Sheena

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Focusing on digital downloads, the release of Mutto’s single ‘Wish’ is a momentous occasion as he is one of the first Australian artists ever to release an exclusively digital single available for download from the iTunes store, his own website, and through the use of a ‘Bandtag’ Card.

‘Bandtag’ has been supplying promotional download cards for artists to give away songs for a few years now, however Mutto is the first artist to use the card as a replacement for the standard CD single, in fact the first artist in Australia to publicly shun cds in favor of a digital download card that allows buyers to download high quality mp3’s to play on iTunes or Windows Media Player.

It also allows fans to download a copy of the video in a format that will work on ipods and iphones. Check it out here Mutto – “Wish” video

To top it off, apart from radio giveaways and promotion, last night’s launch was exclusively promoted through the use of social media platforms like Facebook. With over 200 attendees, the success of the night is a perfect example of the importance of social media marketing in a digital age. It is a new digital era and artists like Mutto demonstrate how results can be achieved online.

As more artists like Mutto and Nomy reach their full potential they present a very real opportunity for new artists trying establish a solid base. As advocates of the digital age, Cowbell and I will strive to uncover more examples of how new artists are using the internet and its many tools to advance their careers. Stay tuned!

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Dubbed the ‘Record Label’s Worst Nightmare’, Nomy’s first single, Cocaine, has over 2 million Youtube hits and is spreading like wildfire. He credits the success to availability, internet marketing and a good music distributor. (You can find him at http://bit.ly/cacd6I).

Nomy’s passion was to give the fans what they wanted without conditions. The whole exercise opens the door to other indie artists wanting to use the internet for marketing and looking to achieve the same results…and which artist doesn’t?

One of our artists sent me a link to an interesting video on Youtube about a topic called Media Convergence. A video with a bunch of amazing facts about the generation we now live in (http://bit.ly/9rZswo), Media Convergence is a term used for what the rest of the world thinks of as the Future of Technology.

Part of this technology relates to social networking platforms; how important they are, is relative to your audience, however the demographic of Facebook users, in particular, are reaching a much higher age than those who use Twitter or Myspace proving that social networking platforms are not only for the young, also the young at heart.

As artists we have to be aware of so many platforms. How do we cope? One of our guys at Cowbell researched all the platforms available and has come up with a novel approach to getting known on many social networking sites with the press of one button. It can be done but can be a waste of time if you have a poor product or a dodgy website.

What has to be recognised is the need to make your website appealing as well as utilizing social networking. It is a massive job but first impressions count in a generation that is bombarded with millions of messages every day. What is different about your website? What will make you stand out on social networking platforms?

If you want to know more about sorting out your social networking, feel free to contact us at www.cowbell.com.au. We can put the tools in place for any artist and provide a backup distribution service, but it really comes down to the artist’s drive and determination to make it successful. Without constant use, a Facebook page or Myspace profile will fade into the ever-increasing chasm which is the world wide web … or, with the right formula, you can “do a Nomy” and have a hit single. In the end, it’s your choice.

Shayne Locke
Cowbell Digital Music – It’s Your Choice.

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What has been the best part of making the new album?

I think the best or at least most exciting part of making an album, for me, is the recording itself. Getting Mike, Tim, and drummer Aaron Sterling in the studio with Ryan Freeland, our engineer, was fantastic. We had such a great energy and camaraderie, and I just LOVE recording. I love studios, generally  Gavin Lurssen’s studio (our mastering engineer) is awesome, too. I could, I would spend all day, every day, in a studio, particularly with those guys!

But it was also wonderful to collaborate with Tim Young and Mike on those early demos over at Tim’s house, too. The collaborative process was sort of new to me, and I learned and grew so much as a result of it. So it’s kind of tie between that early collaboration and the recording itself!

How does this one differ from your last release Already Gone?

The fact that I co-wrote some songs with Mike and Tim and invested more time in the production makes it feel different for me, and maybe more sophisticated. Sound-wise, Into the Quiet is a little bit heavier than Already Gone, in that there are layers of electric guitars and more of a rock sound on a lot of songs. There’s also definitely more pop and country flavor in there.  I’m also extra-proud of my vocals on this album, because I really poured my whole heart into them. I hope people respond to that!

You did something very interesting to raise money for this recording, can you explain that?

Inspired by a number of artists who have turned to their fans for support, including the hilarious and wonderful Jill Sobule, I decided to launch a fundraising campaign before the recording of Into the Quiet. My fans donated $5,000, which was vitally important to the making of this album. I actually gave all donors the chance to vote on my album’s title, and I’ll be having a special listening party for my donors to thank them. I hope that my donors feel as proud of the album as I do, and that they feel good to have played a role!

You’ve played shows all over the US, what is your most memorable tour moment?

Oh boy…probably my most memorable BAD moment on tour was when we got stuck in a snowstorm in Wyoming (in the middle of APRIL) and had to stop in Laramie rather than continuing on I-80. It added an extra day of travel, but we made it just in time for the first gig in Chicago.

But it’s so hard to pick, Cleveland was memorable because I was born there and had dear friends in the audience (which was also a great audience), and I also really loved Rockwood Music Hall in NYC. I love touring generally…even (or perhaps especially) the mishaps because they become part of the stories you can tell later.

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?

Hmm,  I’d say Joni Mitchell, although Lord knows I might be too intimidated to actually collaborate! I would love to work with Grant-Lee Phillips, an amazing songwriter and singer based in LA. And Aimee Mann. And I also find myself singing Michael Penn’s harmonies a lot…I would settle for merely being his back-up singer for sure. I dreamed about collaborating with drummer Jay Bellerose, and then it happened, so you never know!

What song on Into the Quiet is the most personal? And why?

My songs always come from a very personal place, although most of them on this album are not directly autobiographical. I think that the song “Into the Quiet” itself feels most personal to me. Which seems a little odd, because the lyrics are probably also the most abstract. But a lot of it has to do with what I’ve been through over the last several years, and what Mike and I have been through together  and how at the end of the day all I want is to be in a peaceful place, and sharing that peaceful place with him. So I guess, yes, that’s pretty personal. 

Keep a lookout for Kristy’s newest release Into The Quiet. The official release date is March 31st and if you’re in Los Angeles, swing by Molly Malones for the album release show. Also, be sure to check her out on MySpace and Facebook.

-Sheena

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