Saturday, October 24, 2015

CRASH OVERCAST a Hollywood Pop Punk Schooling

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Exclusive Interview

by Lisa "Sunshine" Svelnys

Host: Hollywood Rock Underground TV

Reporter for Xombiewoof Magazine and IndiePulse Music Journal: LA Correspondent

What’s the POP PUNK scene like in LA? ... THRIVING!

I was at Mal's Bar and fell in love with an INCREDIBLE band! Radio Ready and professional, with hooks, and lyrics just chillin’ with a good vibe you will not want to end, CRASH OVERCAST would be my very first pick for new talent on THE WARPED TOUR. There is no doubt in my mind this incredibly talented trio could pull it off seamlessly while earning an incredible legion of fans.

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I got a chance to sit down with Anthony Canal, Alex Kurow, and The Downtown Captain (JD Harris) to talk about CRASH OVERCAST and what's in the future for this pop punk monster they have created, this is what went down....

Lisa: Where are you all from, how did you get together as a band?

Alex: Craigslist, Missed Connections. Only half joking, it was definitely Craigslist though. It’s honestly a great tool for musicians to use to connect.

Anthony: As much as I would like to glamorize the idea of us meeting in a very cool way it was nothing more than meeting online. Was looking through some porn online and saw an ad on the side saying a drummer was needed.

JD: Yep that’s pretty much it. While looking online I came across an ad on Craigslist in the casual encounters section looking for a bassist and I thought it sounded fun to do something a little different than what I’ve been doing.

Lisa: Who are your major musical influences?

Alex: We all grew up listening to punk rock in all of its forms, but specifically this band draws from more of the pop punk subgenre. We definitely cite the bigger bands in the genre as our influences like Blink 182, Green Day, New Found Glory, Jimmy Eat World, All Time Low, Fall Out boy, and Taking Back Sunday. We pull influence from some of the more aggressive bands in that scene as well like Four Year Strong, A Day to Remember, and Set Your Goals. Oh, and can’t forget NSYNC.

Anthony: I’m sticking with Blink 182, Four Year Strong, Set You Goals, With The Punches and more importantly Josie And The Pussycats, anything with high energy and fast beats.

JD: Blink 182 really started it all for me; once I heard Enema of the State I was hooked. From there used their influences to discover new music and grow from there. There are so many bands in and out of the related genre I look too but New Found Glory, The Ataris, Four Year Strong, A Day to Remember and All Time Low are a few that come to mind.
Lisa: Who does your songwriting? What is your process?

Alex: We all contribute to each song in different ways. Typically a song will start with one idea that somebody throws down for the band to hear, and then we snowball it from there. Sometimes it starts with an opening riff, sometimes it will start with a progression, or sometimes it will start with a vocal melody. From there we piece it together. One of the most fun parts of writing is, once a song is almost fully fleshed out, embellishing it with little fills and breaks.

JD: I think we have a unique dynamic because all of us play guitar and love to write so it’s not just left up to one person to come up with the guitar parts or bass lines or drum parts. We all have our hand in the writing for all the instruments.

Lisa: What do you want your fans to come away with after a show?

Alex: We definitely want people to walk away feeling that they were able to let go of whatever was bothering them and jump around and have a great time. That’s one of the reasons why we’re up there doing it too! So hopefully we can send those vibes out to the audience.

Anthony: The most important thing is the experience. We want them to leave with our best foot forward whether it's the energy, certain song or even a phrase that stuck with them, or a friendship made because we would love to chat and make a connection which anyone who enjoyed the show we worked hard to put on.

JD: Yea, I mean I think we want people to have fun with us and enjoy the music. We love doing everything from writing to practice which all leads to the live show and that connection. It’s all about just having fun together, the fans make it fun for us and I hope we make the performance fun for the fans.

Lisa: What do you think about when you are on stage?

11052231_436537013199115_5206012798600796006_nAlex: I’m usually thinking about when the next break in the song is for me to snag a quick
drink of Peach Tranquility Tea (anybody who knows me know I’m addicted to this wonderful Starbucks confection). The stuff helps with your voice immensely, and let’s just say I could use all the help I could get.

Anthony: Meaningful answer: We are up here and they cared enough to come see us so let’s have fun and give them a great show. Real Answer: why is this hot light in my face? Do they like us? What if they don’t like us? … I LIKE US !!!!

JD adds = “Wait... do I like us?” Ha ha, I need a drink.

Lisa: What drives you as a band?

Alex: Being able to put all of our collective ideas out into the world and to have them resonate with others.

Anthony: Knowing that if we work hard enough that we can make this an everyday thing. At this point playing music is all we want to do.

JD: As Anthony said at this point all we want to do is play music. I think writing great songs and playing them for as many people as often as we can really drives the passion.
Lisa: What makes it a "FUN" show for you?

Alex: Really getting into it and displaying dance moves that have yet to be invented.

Anthony: Having a cold beer by my drums and making silly faces to anyone who makes eye contact with me.

JD: Having 15 fans or 15 drinks show up either way it is going to be fun. In some cases both show up then it’s really a party, Haha but seriously… haha actually it’s fun if people enjoy themselves. Playing the music I love makes it fun every show and watching Alex’s new dance moves.
Lisa: What's the best part of being in a rock band?

JD: Being in touch with the music. It’s real. It’s us playing live and it’s loud energetic and fun.

Alex: Definitely what JD said, it’s a raw display of energy. All three of us are big fans of the genre, and as fans, we understand how visceral the exchange of energy is when you really
connect with what a band is doing on stage. We want to pump energy into this scene.
Lisa: What are the craziest things you were asked to do in *other bands? What would be the craziest thing you would do for this band?

Anthony: On tour back in 2011 and the venue we were playing that night brought a six foot long sub. No one in the band seemed interested and since I come from a family that doesn’t waste food I ate the whole thing by myself….I puking on stage in a bag between songs but the show must go on. … I’d eat a 12 foot long for this band any day.

JD: Haha I’d do anything for these guys and this band. But the craziest thing, ... I would be willing to feed Anthony that 12 foot long sandwich. Just for you guys, especially you Anthony.
Alex: Hahahah, I second that for sure, I’d eat a 12 foot long sub for this band, as long as there was no ranch on it. I know, people think I’m crazy for not liking ranch, I’m entitled to my ranch-less life though.

JD: WTF?! No ranch dude?! Ranch is amazing! ... Don’t worry I’d lick the ranch off for you Alex and give you back the Sub.

Lisa: What is your favorite song you are playing now? How does it resonate with you?
Anthony: I personally love a new song we wrote called “Already Gone” Traditional pop punk song with fast drum parts, can’t ask for a better song to play.

JD: Yea, ‘Already Gone’ is definitely a great tune and close to one of my favorites but I’m going to have to go with Adjustments. I love the bass line in the chorus, the slight breakdown feel in has in the intro and bridge and the overall upbeat feel of the song it’s just so much fun from start to finish. (Plus I like that the song is about flipping your boner into your waistband in public because I mean who hasn’t been there right?! Wait Alex that is what the song about
right?)

Alex: I love Truly Easy and Already Gone, We are going to release both of those songs online soon, and they are so much fun to play live. I love the half time bouncy chorus in Truly Easy, and I love the palm muted parts in Already Gone that sync up with the bass and the kick drum. Well, it syncs up when I don’t mess it up haha, I guess I enjoy it because it’s challenging for me to play.
Lisa: If you could tour with anyone.... What would be your "dream gig"?

JD: Oh man there's just so many. Can it just be a massive tour with Blink 182, New Found Glory, All Time Low, and State Champs and maybe like 50 other great bands? Like a warped tour situation with all my favorite bands. Can we make that happen?

Alex: Definitely all of what JD said. Getting on a bill with a band like All Time Low would be a dream for sure. Personally I think it would be epic to tour with Fight Fair if they were to ever get back together.

Lisa: What advice would you give a band trying to make it in LA?

Anthony: Play as many shows as you can, don’t take things or people for granted, never burn your bridges, be professional as possible when dealing with higher ups and most importantly DON'T start a band with people you can’t call your best friends. Yes, being in a band could be somewhat of a business between each other but it doesn't mean anything if the person is nothing more than a member in the band.

JD: That’s a tough one. I think Anthony really covered it. It’s all about making connections and playing with friends. When you play with friends you’re more willing to make it work. It will always be hard and if you have a great group of friends to go through it with it makes the fight worth it.

Alex: Agreed with both Anthony and JD for sure. As far as the technical aspects are concerned, make sure to have your equipment in peak condition. Both Anthony and JD have helped me out a lot as a musician as far as being prepared with equipment at gigs. You never know what could happen. Oh, and the sound guy is your friend, make sure to know when your levels aren’t quite right and how to adjust them for your live set.

I'm really excited to see how far CRASH OVERCAST can take it. Professional, fun, memorable vibe you will want to hear again and again, make sure you grab a demo for the car ride home, you will surprise yourself how long it will stay in your play deck. It's a keeper.

Watch their exclusive interview view with me and video showcase for, in MY opinion, THE SMASH HIT, "Adjustments".

 

 

Connect with CRASH OVERCAST today! They are ready to tour and would love to see you at one of their upcoming shows:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crashovercastInstagram

Twitter: @crashovercastca

Bandcamp: http://www.crashovercast.bandcamp.com

Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/crashovercast

 

 

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Indie Pulse: Too Far Gone is a Vinyl Trip worth taking

Opinion Article and Album Reviews by Joseph Timmons: Xombiewoof Magazine

Reviews of Let’s Move by Tough Stuff and Tough Love by Forth Wanderers

So, here we are again, and as always I have an opinion, so sit back, relax and prepare to be mesmerized.

The indie label scene is all a buzz with excitement, not only has the small press labels become popular without the Hipster element, but some great music is coming out on a daily basis. Through hard work, diligence and great sense in music production, the small indie labels are flourishing, not only in the LP and 45 trade, but cassettes and lathes are hot, but not trendy or fake. This excites me, because labels like Too Far Gone Records can create some great, need to have albums for everyone.

Today I give to you two reviews in one, Too Far Gone Records sent me both Let’s Move by Tough Stuff and Tough Love by Forth Wanderers, these 2 bands are on either end of the experimental spectrum and I believe show some great promise to the music community as well as a great feather in the cap moment for the label. So, here are my thoughts, please feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you think as well as suggest a band we should check out.

A bit about Too Far Gone Records, taken directly from their website info page:

“Too Far Gone Records is run by one 21 year old college student that really loves music and the DIY community.  The location of the label rotates depending on the school year, mostly being located in Boston, Massachusetts.  Any questions/complaints/bad jokes/inquiries/anything should be directed to toofargonerecords@gmail.com and I will answer as soon as I possibly can!” – through messaging, we found out that the industrious leadership of this label not only ran an up and coming source of fantastic music, but moved his entire operation while still meeting order deadlines… some serious dedication to his craft, an a level of honesty the big time labels could learn from.

Now, on to the music!

 

v600_toughstuffcoverAlbum Review of Let’s Move by Tough Stuff by Joseph Timmons: Xombiewoof Magazine

Tough Stuff is a punk group from Long Beach, CA is the debut album that I feel captures some of the anger and apathy felt by this generation, wrought with lyrics of a straight forward nature, and mature language, show that today’s working class youth are sick and tired of the bullshit!

Not over polished, but raw and full of energy, Let’s Move by Tough Stuff is really reminiscent to me of the early NY Punk Scene I delved in my youth and has a pinch of the quirky fallout of the early live Ramones and NY Dolls, not to say they are revamping the early works, Tough Stuff is purely original, but the sentiment and desire to be unique in their messaging is obvious in this 12 track first work.

I do think however, the mix could have been a bit better, the vocals on the more aggressive tracks did not come through as well as some of the others, and the vocalist has a real talent and should be heard! This is one for the collection and since it is a limited run, 200 black Vinyl and 300 marbled violet Vinyl, this album won’t last on the rack long, it is available at Too Far Gone Records and the bands Bandcamp page.

 

v600_a0523103369_16Album Review of Tough Love by Forth Wanderers by Joseph Timmons: Xombiewoof Magazine

Forth Wanderers latest release Tough Love is a split release with Seagreen Records and is an album with a light yet haunting appeal. Sounding very much like early Smashing Pumpkins, and with the vocals by Ava Trilling, the group has a unique an ominous feel.

Forth Wanderers, based out of Montclair, NJ has a growing fan base and captures the ears and minds of more with every performance. Their previous release, Mahogany, has had a very large result on the band’s Bandcamp page and with this latest release, Tough Love by Forth Wanderers looks to follow in suit. This is a release limited to only 350 Opaque yellow and 300 translucent green / opaque blue split Vinyl, so this will be a hot to collect item, I would not be surprised if the popularity made the label print up more to satisfy demand.

The songs on this album are immensely introspective and on occasion make me think of Fiona Apple or Tori Amos, winding and hypnotic, not the “Psychedelic” style sound but a dreamy, persuasive, move to the music sound that only a group with phenomenal range can bring to the stage. I would love to see a live album or DVD with proper production come from Forth Wanderers in the near future.

I give both albums “thumbs up”, Forth Wanderers Tough Love is 5 out of 5 and Let’s Move by Tough Stuff a 4.5, only due to the hopes for a better vocal mix, but still so very well worth the pennies you will pay for a great set of albums.


Wednesday, September 16, 2015

CROOKED EYE TOMMY PERFORMS AT 3RD ANNUAL LIL' EASY BACKYARD PARTY - BENEFIT FOR STROKE AWARENESS FOUNDATION

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Saturday, September 19 - Poor House Bistro - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Crooked Eye Tommy joins some of the best blues talent around onstage for the 3rd Annual Lil' Easy Backyard Party, Saturday, September 19, at the Poor House Bistro, 91 S. Autumn St. in San Jose.

This is a benefit for the Stroke Awareness Foundation in remembrance of the Poor House Bistro's owner's mother, Sally Meduri. "Once a year this special two-day event offers an intimate beautiful setting. A big shade tent, wood dance floor, flowers on the tables, (and) tasty food and beverage. Seating is limited. The goal is to raise money for a great cause and make sure that everyone enjoys a comfortable environment", says the Poor House about this special event, which, in addition to Ventura, Calif. blues act Crooked Eye Tommy, also features such notables as Mitch Woods; the Chris Cain Band; Kim Wilson's Blues All-Stars; Rick Estrin & The Nightcats; and many others.

 

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"This (fundraiser) is very near to my heart. Our grandfather and my mother's sister both died of strokes", says Tommy Marsh of Crooked Eye Tommy. "

Showtime is 11 a.m.-10 p.m. General Admission tickets $40 (one day), $60 (two days - the event also happens on Sunday, September 20). VIP 1-day tickets, $60; 2 days, $100. Reservations required; limited seating available.

Info: (408) 292-5837 or email www.manager@poorhousebistro.com. Additional info: poorhousebistro.com.

three picCROOKED EYE TOMMY and their new album "BUTTERFLIES & SNAKES"

Butterflies & Snakes are eleven memorable tunes penned by Crooked Eye Tommy front-person and band namesake Tommy Marsh and Tommy's brother, guitarist-vocalist, Paddy Marsh (who wrote and sings lead on "Come On In", "I Stole The Blues", and "Tide Pool"). Other C.E.T. members: Glade Rasmussen, bass; Tony Cicero, drums; Jimmy Calire, saxophone/piano/Hammond B3. 

Featuring scorching performances and original music firmly rooted in traditional blues, which feels familiar but somehow new, Tommy Marsh’s considerable songwriting, vocal and guitar skills have made him a Ventura County favorite. Capitalizing on local talent, Tommy and his brother Paddy Marsh invited the legendary Jimmy Calire on sax and the deeply-grooved, driving rhythm section of Tony Cicero on drums and Glade Rasmussen on bass to join the effort. The result is an irresistible alchemy of veteran experience, raw talent and enthralling original material. Listen and feel what a Crooked Eye can do.

http://crookedeyetommy.com - http://www.facebook.com/CrookedEyeTommy


Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Indie Pulse: Brother O’ Brother

Indie Pulse: Newest Running Feature for Xombiewoof Magazine about Artists and Groups finding their way on the Indie Label Scene and Featuring their music online using services such as Bandcamp and Soundcloud.

Indie Pulse: Brother O’ Brother : Brotherly Love On the Web

Article by : Joseph Timmons – Xombiewoof Magazine

Band / Artists : Brother O’ Brother

Recent Video: You Would

Recent Album: Show Pony

Links: FACEBOOKBANDCAMPYOUTUBESHOPIFY – MERCH / ALBUMS 

Starting in the Summer of 2013, Brother O’ Brother began making music with one major message in mind, love. Love’s components, makeup, societal lack, and possible encouraging solutions on how to increase love in this world. Our views on this come from our own faith and backgrounds, but we truly believe the lyrics contained in these songs are a message anyone can agree with and apply to their own world regardless of faith, color, gender, or circumstance. We are trying to participate in this conversation of life by drenching guitars in fuzz, booming drums, and mountains of smoke and lights.  Based out of Indianapolis, B.O.B. has already toured the Midwest heavily, opened for national acts from all over the US, and have already put out three music videos, two 7 inch, two full length albums, a 12 inch, and a EP all in their first two years. Brother O' Brother currently has label associations with Fonoflo Records, Grimtale Records, and Shedhouse Records.

Their latest release SHOW PONY is an exhilarating romp in basic Rock & Roll fueled by youth and angst. great combinations of rhythm and verse, raw but slightly polished and never over sampled. sounds like they may have done several “one takes” to get prepped, but pure fun and easily recommended for any indie lover and music collector. This is a great album, but I feel this is a warm-up for things to come.

Brother O’ Brother is a band that is taking the new Vinyl Revolution to heart, offering their music on the legacy media format, but also offering one offs, silk screen packaging and collectables that support their music ambitions, so this is a no brainer, support the band by getting out to the shows, but if not, buy their albums.

Their sound is very reminiscent of early 70’s folk / punk infusions, which gave way to the alternative genre, which illuminated the Seattle skyline for a brief yet luxurious moment in time. Brother O’ Brother has it and really wants to share it with you. Fave tracks, a toss up between Blood & Cigarettes and SHOW PONY (Title Track) in addition, I have an opinion, the Power duos are not easy acts to perform, everything in 2 instruments live can be nerve breaking, Brother O’ Brother has, in my opinion only a few contemporaries at the moment, Sir Madam and Royal Blood, and The White Stripes.


 

New Video by Brother O’ Brother

 

Starting in the Summer of 2013, Brother O’ Brother began making music with one major message in mind, love. Love’s components, makeup, societal lack, and possible encouraging solutions on how to increase love in this world. Our views on this come from our own faith and backgrounds, but we truly believe the lyrics contained in these songs are a message anyone can agree with and apply to their own world regardless of faith, color, gender, or circumstance. We are trying to participate in this conversation of life by drenching guitars in fuzz, booming drums, and mountains of smoke and lights.  Based out of Indianapolis, B.O.B. has already toured the Midwest heavily, opened for national acts from all over the US, and have already put out three music videos, two 7 inch, two full length albums, a 12 inch, and a EP all in their first two years. Brother O' Brother currently has label associations with Fonoflo Records, Grimtale Records, and Shedhouse Records.

 

 

ACIDIC by Name - Rocking by Nature

ACIDIC BAND PIC 3Interview with Michael Gossard about his group ACIDIC and their recent climb from the LA clubs to the Festival Stages of America

Written by Joseph Timmons; Xombiewoof Magazine

There is always a time where as a writer and journalist, you may not get the big scoop, or be the first on the scene for a band that is breaking news and reaching new heights, but being among the many that have been lucky enough to get a moment to talk with a group of artists that have the potential to make a big splash in a music arena that already seems too small for them.

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Recently I had the pleasure of reviewing the album Creatures by ACIDIC, I wrote the following Creatures is a fantastic romp through the energy of youth, something that can be forgotten and is only experienced by the young in body, spirit and mind. These are four very talented and exuberant young men that have some serious potential to make some big noise on the stage.” Truth is, they have only just started to take over the festival and indie scene. Since that review, they have received even more acclaim and notoriety, as well as a media storm that is sweeping up the band in waves of new fans daily.

A recent interview with Rock at Night Correspondent Chyrisse Tabone in Tampa, an audio podcast and written article available at http://rockatnight.com/podcast/chatting-with-mike-gossard-of-rock-band-acidic is an example of the positive and universal appreciation for a group that is only really just starting and is destine for fabulous heights in the future of music.

I had an opportunity to converse with ACIDIC bad member Michael Gossard, I learned quite a bit about the band, who they are and what is their motivations, loves and triumphs, hope you enjoy the moment!

Who, is ACIDIC, not just the names of the members, but their personalities, so often interview articles

not establish the individual, I feel our readers want to know the artist for the real person, not a made up persona or stage presence.  Who are you?

ACIDIC is a collection of four guys.

Michael Gossard - I am a lifelong musician; the lead singer of ACIDIC. I love music more than just about anything. I also love cooking and am learning to fly airplanes. Travel is definitely a passion.

Matt Whitaker - He is our drummer. He is outgoing and intelligent. He is a survivor of childhood Leukemia and doesn't let anything stop him from getting where he wants to go. He is always the one to call for a chill day at the beach or a game of Call of Duty.

Josh Bennett - He is our guitar player and is the master of tasty solos and chicly rhythm. He is also a walking sketch book for his tattoo artist and is always coming up with new ideas for a piece. Josh is very dedicated to his comic books and is always the one to call for a good conversation.

Max Myrick - He is our bass player and is an avid surfer and partier. He can be found doing videography work or down on the beach enjoying the sun. He is definitely the one to call for a good time.

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What were your influences that drove you to pursue music, and how would you say they influence your sound?

We have had many influences over the years, and all the classics definitely fit into the category of bands who have influenced us. Although lately I have noticed that we are more influenced by the bands we tour and play shows with than anything. We see the intensity and the drive to succeed that only us underground rock acts seem to possess and it really drives our sound. There is a tense energy in our music that comes from our desire to succeed that I have not heard anywhere else but in the underground rock scene.

In your own words, how would you describe your sound? In reviews, including our review of your latest album "Creatures", almost every catch phrase could be used to describe your music and your sound, but I believe words fail to really grasp how high energy and powerful your music is, can you, as the artists tell us what we should be hearing?

In our music, there is a lot of tension and release. I believe that the listener should hear a lot of building up to a good chorus. We try to build a multidimensional platform filled with nuance. But at the heart of it, it is really just a simple expression of emotion. We try to not give ourselves too much credit, we just arrange chords the way we like to hear them and most things have been done before.

ACIDIC LIVE TOUR SHOT AUGUST 2015

You have shared the stage with a lot of artists, would you say you have been well received? Have there been any shows where you performed beyond expectation? And who are some of the acts you have performed with that things just seemed to “Gel” with, who really rocked the stage with you that you would perform with again?

We have been very well received all over the United States and parts of Europe. We leave our hearts up there and try not to worry so much about what a few people might be thinking. We try to focus on expressing our music as efficiently as we can and let the audience interpret it as they will. Almost without exception, people have been very gracious. We have really gelled with most of the acts we have played with in the past. Some particularly good matches have been Hinder, and Royal Bliss. We have very much struck a chord with these bands and are very excited about possibly working with them in the future. The Hinder guys pranked us on the last show of one of our tours. The works! Baby powder on the drums that made this huge cloud in the air when Matt started playing, Ben Gay on the microphones, they even wrapped our bass player's chest and arms with saran wrap while he was onstage playing! It was hilarious! We also played with Alien Ant Farm and they're great guys, too. They did a lot of that same stuff, pranking us in the last show on the tour. Too funny! We loved it! In both those cases! Felt like we'd successfully pledged the best fraternity on campus! There was also the great Rusty Anderson, Paul McCartney's guitarist. We played a show with him where he had us join him onstage for several songs. I sang co-lead with him on a couple of them, which was pretty thrilling! He was generous and incredibly easy to work with. We actually can't think of many people we have not enjoyed playing with.

The album "Creatures" is great, well thought out, produced and made with the intention of presenting you in the best way possible. Was there any material that did not make the cut, and if so, would we hear it at a show or on the next release?

First of all, thank you! Yes there was a lot of material that didn't make it past the cutting room floor. We try to make decisions on songs based on what's best for the album, not what's best for any one particular person's opinion. There have been occasions when we have added songs after production has been finished and that has always been a good decision. One was even a request by fans - who posted asking if that song they'd heard at live shows was going to be on the album. That one was "Rad (Standing In the Rain)" which is a high-intensity rocker that we launch our live shows with. Most of the songs we have written, we have played live. Although, if a particular piece of music hasn't made it on a particular album that it was meant for, the probability of us continuing to play said piece is much lower. Having said that, there have been songs we have done on multiple albums and songs which were meant for one album, that have ended up on another. There is always room for good music.

You have been touring this new album and playing for some great venues, but recently you had to cut some shows due to an injury to a band member. Is everything going to be ok and will you start touring again soon?

Injuries occur regardless of the profession. I am not happy that we have had to cut shows, but I would rather have people healing at home near their usual doctor, than on the road in random urgent cares around the country. Our drummer Matt recently received some 2nd degree burns to his left hand. I made the executive decision to end the tour due to the advice of the doctor at the hospital I took him to. I would rather place my bet on the future value of good shows to come, than to permanently injure a band member to play a few shows now. Luckily, he has healed and is very excited to return to the stage and we will be back in action over Labor Day. And I do want to take a moment to thank the promoters who we had to call right away to notify them about Matt's accident. They were amazingly understanding.

ACIDIC MIKE GOSSARD CROWDSURFING PIC

With your popularity growing at such a fantastic rate, where do you see yourself in 5 to 6 years, I ask this because so often, and not that I think or hope this happens, but often bands get to a point where they start to lose interest in the sound they have, experiment with new things or loose that spark that makes them great. What is your goal in music and where do you want to be?

I cannot tell you with competence where ACIDIC will be in 5 years, but what I can tell you is that we are all ardent music enthusiasts and we love playing live. These are the types of things that rarely change. Nothing is as satisfying as jumping in front of 1000 screaming people. I have to stick to thinking about today and leave tomorrow to more qualified forces. I can say also, that as long as we continue to love playing for people and dig the music we write, which we all currently do, very much, ACIDIC will continue indefinitely.

What is the best “From the Tour Bus” story do you have that you could share with our readers and what would be the worst where if one more things went wrong you would try to leave town under cover of darkness?

From the tour bus, there have definitely been some crazy things. Most of which I am sworn to secrecy on. We have seen all sorts of body parts, functions and dis-functions. We have also had the good fortune to have not encountered any major incidence where we have had to leave town under the cover of darkness...yet. I will let you know if that changes.

Only because I want a pat on the back, did you get to read our review, and did you think it captured what you were expressing in the album Creatures, or did I miss the mark? Be honest, I won’t cry or fail to love your work.

First of all, I want to sincerely thank you for taking the time to review our album, we have been astounded by all the love we have been getting, the reactions have been universally positive. I think you guys were spot on. I also think that regardless of what anyone writes, that person, for that moment in time, under those particular circumstances is, unto themselves, spot on. Basically I want to pat you on the back and give you my wink of appreciation.

And now, the most common of questions …. What’s next for ACIDIC, will you be going into the studio when this tour is complete, any great shows planned or surprises for your fans you want to share?

I am asked this question quite a bit and I am happy to write that the answer rarely changes. We are going to continue to play, to write, and to work towards the next level. We are currently en route to a large music festival in Madison, WI. So for the moment, the name of the game is play, play, play. In winter, I imagine we will pull back and begin the process of writing new material. I am very excited to say that the new material is already being written to some extent and it is fantastic.

I want to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for this opportunity to share with you a little bit of lore and laughter about ACIDIC. We are just a bunch of crazy dudes who love to play music and I hope we get to speak again soon.

In this interview, we met the men and the minds behind the music, I would seriously advise you al to be part of the new music revolution, one where standing in lines to see bands with mediocre fluff and generic boy band character is swiftly becoming a thing of a hopefully soon forgotten blip in musical history, and the surge of real music comes back to enchant a new generation, led by ACIDIC, and others with their vision.

Learn more about ACIDIC at http://www.acidicband.com and Follow them on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/ACIDICband


 


black winter

Donate to a Worthy Cause – Help Support Juvenal Cancer Treatment

Sunday, August 30, 2015

DMK - Featuring Scotty Dunbar - To Premiere "Tears In The City", And "The Fire That Won't Go Out" on WVOX's Metal Mayhem This Tuesday.

DMK from the East Coast will see two earth-shaking tracks debuted on Matt O'Shaughnessy's WVOX Metal Mayhem show this Tuesday between 9-11pm EST worldwide on WWW.WVOX.COM and 1460 AM.

Comprised of vocalist Scotty Dunbar, Guitarist Ted Merrill, and drummer Brian Karl, DMK has shared the stage with such a-list nationals as Bret Michaels, Jack Russell's Great White, Michael Sweet of Stryper and many more.

Fans of DMK can see them live with Trixter on October 1st at the famed Whisky A Go Go in Hollywood, California.

"When I received the two world-class songs recently from DMK; I instantly realized these guys and band were destined for massive radio airplay worldwide and should be a major staple of any radio programmers playlist. This is high octane top notch rock!" says Matthew O'Shaughnessy"!

Saturday, August 29, 2015

Iconic Testament Guitar Titan Talks With WVOX Metal Mayhem Host Matt O'Shaughnessy About "Metal Allegiance" This Friday!

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Bay Area bashers and internationally-recognized metal masters Testament's Alex Skolnick will talk with Matt O'Shaughnessy on his long-running WVOX Metal Mayhem show in New York this Friday at 7:10pm EST heard worldwide on WWW.WVOX.COM and 1460 AM about the much touted "Metal Allegiance" forthcoming album featuring some of heavy metal's a-list and biggest names.

"I've heard some of the music from the power-packed Metal Allegiance CD and this certainly is one of the best creations of super talent I've ever heard and witnessed!" says O'Shaughnessy.

 


SACRED OATH's Legendary Frontman/Vocalist/Guitarist - Rob Thorne In WVOX Metal Mayhem Exclusive Interview This Friday!

905771_10152936618568199_1883784609243208130_o"Ravensong", the follow-up to Connecticut acclaimed metallers Sacred Oath's last release, Fallen, will no doubt shed even more light on why these talented guys completely deserve higher billing in the metal community.  With Ravensong, Sacred Oath could very well have produced their "Master Of Puppets" or "Number Of The Beast";it is that well crafted and incredibly well done, from the world-class production, to Thorne's always unmistakable vocals and the band that backs him - ingenious.

WVOX Metal Mayhem host Matthew O'Shaughnessy will welcome back longtime friend and Oath singer Rob Thorne this Friday at 9:15pm EST worldwide via WWW.WVOX.COM and locally in New York at 1460 AM.

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The two will discuss the groups recent video shoot for the track "Taken" from their September-slated release of Ravensong and much more during the live on air chat. " Having my great pal, Rob, and one of metal's most prolific singers on Metal Mayhem is always a huge highlight for me..." says O'Shaughnessy   


Black Winter Album Project

Big News

Black Valentine and other artists on the upcoming Black Winter project are creating PSA videos for us to add to our site.

This is Happening !

We have 34 days left to raise 10K to create the metal album of albums,  with 20 songs by 20 of the best indie bands ever, this album will be sold to raise funds for juvenile disease treatment and research. If everyone that reads this was to donate as little as 5.00, we would probably meet, or even exceed our goal.

We have raised 30.00 but we need to raise more!

Join in the fray  and help us make some metal magic.

Click this link to see where we sit at indiegogo

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/xombiewoof-records-black-winter-compilation#/story


Tuesday, August 25, 2015

lady Borcher’’ musical quotes of our past’’

Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.
- Victor Hugo

Still to this day music is used for expression, weather it be for rebellion of unjust polices, love and even in therapy. music is a connection that links all cultures no matter the diversity, even though each person has a individual perspective and reaction to music it is still a chain connecting all humanity.                                    children get the most benefits from music, if allowed to listen to different styles of music in the early ages of life, the child will improve in social and verbal development.  Articles by licensed psychologist all agree, music is a key role in mental, physical and emotional development, all ages are effected by music even when i comes to trauma, depression and physical recovery,.music's role although  still a newer method amounts Americans it is still receiving praise of the rapid recovery of patients under such trials. Remember music is stimulant,  sedative  and all around healer of the body and mind. the one medical treatment that is mostly  free and has no overdose warning labels. keep up the daily  vitamin and musical intake  AND ILL howl you all later..

A Hollywood Rock Deep Purple Experience

Deep Purple: Live in SoCal

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Live Performance Review by Steve Amaon: Contributing Journalist and Entertainment Photographer

Deep Purple made a return trip to southern California this year; I made it out to both shows. The Pacific Amphitheater hosted on August 12 and Fantasy Springs Casino hosted on August 15. Deep Purple have been on a world tour for almost two years in support of their newest CD, Now What?!.

20044986614_49ffd0d08e_bIan Paice, Roger Glover, Don Airey and Steve Morse were all at the top of their game at both shows. Ian Gillan was in good voice, his silver throated screaming days far behind him, he stilled pulled off excellent versions of classics…old and new. They opened with Highway Star (surprise…NOT!) and got things cooking right off the bat. Excellent sound at both venues and the lighting was top notch as well!

Classic tracks from In Rock, Fireball, Machine Head as well as Perfect Strangers were offered as were tracks from Rapture of the Deep and Now What?! The two standouts from the new cd that I thought really worked were Uncommon Man and Hell To Pay. Steve Morse brought the house down with his stunning instrumental, “Well Dressed Guitar”. Perfect Strangers and Smoke had everyone on their feet….phones in hand…..Hush with some interesting tidbits thrown in and Black Night, were the encore. Excellent musicians performing excellent songs equals a good time!

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Full Setlist:

  • 20044963704_b208c21c50_b· Highway Star
  • · Apres Vous
  • · Hard Lovin’ Man
  • · Strange Kind Of Woman
  • · Vincent Price
  • · Contact Lost
  • · Uncommon Man
  • · Well Dressed Guitar
  • · The Mule
  • · Lazy
  • · Hell To Pay
  • · Perfect Strangers
  • · Space Truckin’
  • · Smoke On The Water

 

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Encore:

  • · Hush
  • · Black Night

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Photo Credits : Steve Amaon


 


black winter

Xombiewoof Magazine as of today have gained the support of musical artists Rudy Sarzo, Bumblefoot, Joe Walla, Ronnie North, Parley, Black Valentine, 210ToLowell and many more.

Evolution Guitars, Custom Guitar Manufacturers has graciously added an incentive to this project. not so much a perk, but an added bonus to one lucky sponsor. Evolution Guitars will select at random from one of our sponsors to receive a Custom Guitar for FREE !!! - No Purchase Necessary - all you have to do is sponsor this project! But we have to meet our goal by 75%, so share this, help us get funded and you could possibly get more than expected.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/xombiewoof-records-black-winter-compilation/x/6868336#/story

Xombiewoof Magazine started bringing the music loving public reviews, interviews and stories about the musical world 7 years ago, then 1 year ago formed Xombiewoof Records, a small run boutique label to bring unsigned artists into the light of day, it's been great but now we want to do more for the world. We have done many fundraisers with great success to help children's charities, this year we, with the help of some fantastic Musical Artists, we will create the ultimate Heavy Metal Compilation Album!

With the help of Music Instrument companies, Promoters, and the bands themselves, as well as help from big name nationally known artists, we will bring out an arsenal of Heavy Metal Hits, 20 songs in total from 20 bands on 2 Vinyl albums that will get the earth shaking, all in the name of helping children with life threatening illnesses.

Childhood Diseases can occur at any time in a child's life, and often, the families do not have the resources to act in time, we look to change that with Black Winter, our Fundraising Album!

One of the many things we at Xombiewoof Magazine do is support charities that help children; the fact is childhood disease claims the lives of 1 out of every 100 children in America and the rest of the world in fatality and 2 out of every hundred in crippling or painful events that last a lifetime. Xombiewoof Magazine wants to help change that, we want to make it our goal, with your help, to make the future a brighter place for those that have been stricken with illness that, if detected and treated early, don’t have to be a death or living death sentence. So often do you get messages to donate but don’t see any reward, so we have come up with a plan to help them and make it a benefit for you. The “Black Winter Project” is where we get donations through the fundraiser, you get a premium for your donation and once we have produced the album, the proceeds from the album will be given to the charities we support. The premiums or “Perks” range from small gifts to a limited edition copy of the finished album. We have the support of artists all over the United States and several foreign countries that are donating a song to the album, 20 tracks for a 2 record set. You may ask why he title “Black Winter”, well because its METAL!, Heavy Metal is a musical medium with a message of hope, through the expression of the soul and it gets you motivated to do what you believe in, SURVIVE the hardships and be victorious!

The charities we support are St. Jude’s Hospital, The American Cancer Foundation, The Central Coast Diabetes Foundation, The Heartbeat4Kids Program and The Fender Foundation.

Black Winter is planned to be the biggest collection of independent hard rock and metal artists on one 2 record set, gathering music from the US and around the world, with guest artists from nationally known bands lending their talents, Black Winter will be the one to have in your collections. This album will be limited to 2000 copies on Black / White Marbled Vinyl with 8 x 11 mini posters from every band involved and a Black Winter T-Shirt.

Please visit https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/xombiewoof-records-black-winter-compilation/x/6868336#/story and donate today !

Monday, August 24, 2015

WHAT! NEVER GOING TO BELIEVE THIS

1465 the printing press was first used for music, this began the renaissance era. and continued until the computer and email is now and will for awhile be used to compose new melodies.

early.staff

Friday, August 21, 2015

MEGADETH Radio Special/Tribute Invades WVOX's Metal Mayhem Show In NY This Friday

 

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Due to severe overwhelming demand from Megadeth fans worldwide, host Matthew O'Shaughnessy will unleash another round and high decibel dose of Megadeth mayhem on his WVOX Metal Mayhem show on Friday, August 28th from 6-10pm.

"Our first Deth tribute and salute broadcast last year broke all the rules and set new precedents for WVOX and was met with an utter overflow from Megadeth fans worldwide...so now WVOX is doing it again - Part 2!

 

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Fans and listeners will hear tracks from Megadeth's complete catalogue, rare tracks, live cuts and much more during the 4 hour special Megadeth onslaught.

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"For Megadeth fans worldwide...this will again prove to be an incredible and historic broadcast!" says O'Shaughnessy.

 



Xombiewoof Magazine / Xombiewoof Records needs everyone in the Music and Record Industry, Musicians, Producers, Managers and others to help share our Indiegogo project and help us reach our goal, thank you for your support and when this project is done, we will have done something special. Xombiewoof Magazine will start Xombiewoof records to not only help artists, but the proceeds from our productions, as well as our Merch Shops will be donated to Charities for Music Education and Juvenal Disease Treatment.

We want this to be a 100% endeavor. If we don’t reach our goal, we get nothing, if we reach our goal we get to do something to make a difference.

In addition to the great perks we are offering to our donating sponsors, we have gained the support of musical artists Rudy Sarzo, Bumblefoot, Joe Walla, Ronnie North, Parley, Black Valentine, 210ToLowell and many more. A full list of bands appearing on the album and supporting artists will be posted soon

Evolution Guitars, Custom Guitar Manufacturers has graciously added an incentive to this project. not so much a perk, but an added bonus to one lucky sponsor. Evolution Guitars will select at random from one of our sponsors to receive a Custom Guitar for FREE !!! - No Purchase Necessary - all you have to do is sponsor this project! But we have to meet our goal by 75%, so share this, help us get funded and you could possibly get more than expected.

Go to our Facebook Page – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Xombiewoof-Black-Winter-Project/875503835829985

And select “Sign up” to go to http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/xombiewoof-records-black-winter-compilation/x/6868336#/story

We Need You ! Show the World that Metal Has Heart!

#metalhasheart #Metalcares #xombiewoof #Blackwinter

Here are the links to our stores, which we also share our profits with charities.

http://squareup.com/market/xombiewoof
http://xombiewoofrecords.bandcamp.com/
http://www.zazzle.com/xombiewoof
http://www.zazzle.com/josepht1965

Please share and help support!
We need your Help, don’t just like, get involved!