The Athens Blur Magazine - Issue 9
The Athens Blur Magazine - Issue 9
The Athens Blur Magazine - Issue 9
The AVETT
BROTHERS
A major band gets
a major label
taking back
sunday
passion
Adam Lazzara’s
new perspective
Ten
Questions
Sister Hazel outlives
pit
and outlasts on Release
*New members only. Free trial valid in the 50 United States only, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit one per household. First-time customers only. Internet access and valid payment
method required to redeem offer. GameFly will begin to bill your payment method for the plan selected at sign-up at the completion of the free trial unless you cancel prior to the end of the free trial. Plan
prices subject to change. Please visit www.gamefly.com/terms for complete Terms of Use. Free Trial Offer expires 12/31/2010.
(22)
The buzz instigated by five Boston
kids just barely able to buy a Sam
Adams at their local beer joint is
passion pit
inescapable — and quickly making its
way to a town near you...
by Kristen Lee
remembering
(40) the georgia theatre
(53)
10
questions with sister hazel
by Natalie B. David (46)
A Major Step
(48) The Avett Brothers get a makeover — Rick Rubin style.
by Alec Wooden
Something
New Again
rs. The U.S.
tic controlle and save
e pesky plas melt faces
Forget thos on sh ip s
Champi time.
Air Guitar mance at a
one perfor
(59)
the world,
(50)
David
by Natalie
Taking Back Sunday’s Adam Lazzara finds a fresh perspective.
by Nicole Black
14
Life...after MJ
WHAT’S YOUR MUSICSCOPE? 66
12
Astrology for Musicians
11 spotlights
Regional Report: Memphis, Tenn. 66
13 Manchester Orchestra
Lissy Trullie
11
12
20
Derek Trucks 13
Eric Lindell 14
Eric Heatherly 17
Mindy Smith 18
Vienna Teng 19
fun. 20
Passion Pit 22
Chimaira 24
Marshmallow Coast 25
Blind Pilot 26
Keyshia Cole 28
Van Hunt 29
28
Futurebirds 30
ALSO:
64 38 EAR CANDY: Album Reviews
THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY
TOUR DIARY: Tishamingo
32
36
38
18
UPCOMING CD RELEASES 45
ARTS &
ENTERTAINMENT
MOVIE PREVIEWS: Worth your money? 67
Mike Epps: A Big Kid Livin’ in a Grown Man’s Body 69
UPCOMING DVD RELEASES 71
69 FOOD
MEALS FOR YOUR BROKE ASS:
Cool Treats!
73
ALSO INSIDE:
MUSICIAN’S GEAR GUIDE 64
73
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: 74
Go Ahead, Make My Date
ATHENS LIVE: The Month in Photos 78
ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE 5
BLUR FROM THE EDITOR
DEAR READERS The Athens Blur Magazine
“Just be there opening night.”
That’s all Wilmot Greene wants — or, at least, that was his response to my P.O. Box 7117
hollow-feeling (yet heartfelt) question, ‘what can we do to help?’
As he says this, his pride and joy (The Georgia Theatre) isn’t even two weeks Athens, Ga 30604
removed from being gutted by fire. Donations and goodwill continue to pour
in, but rebuilding the joint isn’t, at this point, a foregone conclusion.
Main Office(706) 353-7799
Still, he’s confident: just be there opening night. Amazing. For my part, Sales(706) 207-9091
there’s not a circumstance on this planet that could keep me from it.
The truth is, of course, there is more we can do.
As a community, keep giving. Don’t let the donations slow as we become Executive Editor
further removed from the tragedy on Lumpkin street. As music fans, get out Alec Wooden
to one of the many benefit shows that continue to pop up around town. Oh, alec@athensblur.com
and...be at the Theatre opening night.
For our part as Blur Magazine, we’re trying to pitch in a couple ways. This Director of Sales
month’s centerfold feature is a simple and poignant look back at memories Stephen Simmons
made in the Theatre. Photographer Kevin Quinn generously donated a large stephen@athensblur.com
part of his archives for the project, showcasing photos from around 2001-
2009. Following the photo spread are just a few of the favorite memories from Account Executives
a wide range of people both willing and eager to share some of their favorite Adrienne Klein
times had in the building. adrienne@athensblur.com
Also, I’d like to draw your attention to the page normally dedicated to the Jim McGahee
Georgia Theatre advertisement (this month, immediately after the above- jim@athensblur.com
mentioned section) as we announce our efforts to chip in on the fundraising. Zach Greco
In partnership with www.eCampusWIDE.com, Blur is proud to sponsor “Re- zach@athensblur.com
vive the Theatre,” a massive percentage day planned for Saturday, August 22 at Jen Allen
more than 20 establishments around Athens. These businesses have generous- jen@athensblur.com
ly offered a percentage of their full day’s sales, which will be gathered and do-
nated through the current online giving means at georgiatheatre.com. Advertising Interns
For a full list of participating bars and restaurants, see the advertisement or Elaine Emma Kelch, Morgan Kelly, Julia Ott
visit www.eCampusWIDE.com/revive. If you’re around on the 22nd, get out
to eat, grab a few beers, an ice cream cone, whatever. Know that every dollar Design
you spend will be chipping in to the rebuilding battle — and it’s a long, uphill Colin Dunlop, Lauren Mullins,
battle — and getting us one step closer to opening night at The Theatre. Carlye Norton, Alec Wooden
Editorial Interns
Jessica Cole, Will Hackett, Lindsey Lee
Kristen Lee, Lauren Moot, Julie
Alec Wooden McCollum, Sarah Saltzman
Executive Editor
Contributing Editor
Jon Ross
editor’s playlist Contributing Writers
old or new, 10 songs I can’t get enough of this month Natalie David, Ed Morales,
Zac Taylor, Jon Ross, Melissa Coker, Amanda
“1901” Phoenix “Sunken Union Boat”
Cuda, Matt Fink, Kelly Skinner, DeMarco
John Vanderslice
Williams, PT Umphress, Jacquie Brasher
“So Blue” The Corduroy Road
“I’m Sorry Baby, But You Can’t Stand For general comments and inquiries:
“Cold Hands” Black Lips in my Light Anymore” editorial@athensblur.com
Bob Mould
“Polyanna” Patterson Hood For advertising opportunities:
“Trillion Candles” A PostWar Drama sales@athensblur.com
“Miss Bliss” Dodd Ferrelle The Athens Blur Magazine issue 9, copyright©2009
“I’ll Be There” Jackson 5 (really) By The Athens Blur Magazine, INC. The Athens Blur Magazine is
an eight issue/year music and variety publication, proud to be
“Jessie The Goat” Joker’s Daughter based in the “Classic City” of Athens, Ga. All rights reserved. No
part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part in
any way by any means unless written permission is received from
the publisher. Published monthly except for each summer issue
ON THE COVER: Boston’s Passion Pit, celebrating the release in the United States of America and distributed free of charge
(limit one copy per reader, each subsequent copy is distributed
of the new record, Manners. Photo by Elizabeth Weinberg. at a charge of $4.95). Postmaster send address changes to The
Athens Blur Magazine, P.O. Box 7117 Athens, Ga. 30604
MUSIC
Life...after mj “Jackson’s now cancelled
“This Is It” London show
remembering the man in the mirror series had him originally
Pop quiz, music fans: who’s the only 1980’s. He even holds a record for having
scheduled to appear 10 times
artist more popular than Presley and more the most records by a recording artist. A at London’s O2 Arena. When
prolific than Lennon? record for having records? Wow. But the
You got it. Michael Joseph Jackson. most interesting record to me? Jackson
ticket sales went through the
Okay, so I don’t mean that — com- holds the Guinness for the most chari- roof (at one point, sales num-
pletely. But let’s break it down for a sec- ties donated to by a recording artist. For bers were around 11 tickets/
ond. Like Elvis, MJ understood that being all the controversy that swirled around the
a musician wasn’t enough. His heart rest- beleaguered star, a whole lot of good came second), Jackson bumped the
ed in presentation, and no one did it bet- from his misunderstood life. number to 50 shows. Here’s
ter. Like Lennon, MJ wrote songs unlike The jarring thing about Jackson’s death
any other in his time period, showcasing — again, I dare say as it was with Pres- some perspective: when Paul
a genius unparalleled. So while it’s tough ley and Lennon — is that he was not an McCartney tickets for Citi
to make the above blanket statement, it’s artist totally out of the sphere of cultur-
certainly a defensable one (by the way, in al relevance, despite the general concen- Field (New York) were going
an interesting coincidental sidenote, Jack- sus that his musical prime was long, long well for two shows, the pro-
son’s death came one day before the 32nd gone. Jackson’s now cancelled “This Is It”
anniversary of Elvis’ final concert). London show series had him original-
moters bumped the number
As was the feeling (I think, I wasn’t ly scheduled to appear 10 times at Lon- up to three shows. A British
around) in 1977 (Elvis’ death) and 1980 don’s O2 Arena. When ticket sales went
(Lennon’s), a generation of fans is now through the roof (at one point, sales num-
star in America added one
left with a simple, profound and hollow bers were around 11 tickets/second), Jack- show by popular demand.
truth about their days on this planet. Life son bumped the number to 50 shows. An American star in Britain
exists now in two distinct spheres: life be- Here’s some perspective: when Paul Mc-
fore June 25, 2009, and life after MJ. Cartney tickets for Citi Field (New York) added 40.”
Jackson is one of those sad cases of were going well for two shows, the pro-
the last decade (think OJ Simpson, if moters bumped the number up to three
you’re a sports fan) whose name has be- shows. A British star in America added
come a punchline in its own right for a one show by popular demand. An Ameri-
joke that needn’t even be said. I didn’t care can star in Britain added 40.
then — 2005, during the trial — and I This column wasn’t originally going to
don’t care now about the allegations. Yes, be about Michael, ya know. By the time
some sick charges were brought forth you read this, he’s been gone for at least
and, was he to be found guilty, nothing a month, and the news outlets have long
would have excused the behavior. But that since retreated from the story. But when I
doesn’t change 200+ million album sales. checked the mailbox today, sitting inside
That doesn’t change countless #1 singles was “Now That’s What I Call Music, Vol.
(back when it meant something to have 31,” and it made me stop in my tracks at
a #1 single). That doesn’t change genius the irony of its arrival date. Looking down
— genius — writing and arranging. It the artist and track list, I couldn’t help but
doesn’t change an untouchable legacy of think the genres Michael bred and saved
showmanship. time and again are essentially dead, as
Any legacy, to be untouchable, must be they have been in his absence from the
properly defined — a chore not even re- music scene before his death. Will we ever
motely difficult when dealing with Jack- see this type of genius again? I’m not con-
son. The week after his death, he sold vinced the answer is yes. I hope it is, but
over 400,000 records and claimed 14 of I just don’t know. There was everything
the top 20 spots on Amazon’s UK charts. before June 25, 2009, which was blessed
The week prior? He sold around 10,000 by his presence. And now, without warn-
and wasn’t even sniffing a chart. Jackson ing, we must head into something which
holds a host of Guinness world records. something music and pop culture is frank-
He claims the top selling record of all ly not prepared — life after MJ.
time, the most successful run of concerts
of all time, and the most #1 hits of the — Alec Wooden
ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE 9
MUSIC ALTERNATIVE
band on fire
behind the buzz of atlanta’s rising rock ACt
On the rock and roll career
trajectory, Manchester Orchestra
is somewhere between up-and-
coming and everywhere (think
Kings of Leon pre-“Sex on
Fire”). The promising signs are
there.
First, there’s the crowd
volume. “It was a pretty sold-out
tour, so that was encouraging,”
said Chris Freeman, Manchester
Orchestra’s keyboardist, calling
in from his hometown of Atlanta
during a two-week break after
wrapping up the U.S. tour.
But for Freeman, the
“something’s happening here”
moment for him occurred a few
years back at Atlanta’s Variety
Playhouse. “Our hopes were
to sell 400 tickets, which was
the most we’d ever sold before,”
he recalled. “A couple of hours
before the show, it sold out at
Photo: James Minchin III
1,200, and we walked onstage
in our hometown and there While the rest of us have example, in “The Only One,”
were 1,200 people there going
ape-shit. … I just couldn’t stop MANCHESTER been gradually catching on, Hull sings, “I am the only son
smiling the whole show, which ORCHESTRA the band has been steadily
hitting its stride, most evident
of a pastor I know who does the
things I do.” (Hull’s father and
was awesome.” on the group’s recent release, grandfather were pastors.) The
Then, there are the awkward Mean Everything to Nothing, lyrics on the new record have
fame moments. “I had my first WHO’S WHO Manchester Orchestra’s answer gotten more personal than the
encounter with a crying fan,” Andy Hull (vocals, guitar),
Chris Freeman (keyboard), to Weezer’s Pinkerton. first, but sometimes they go over
Freeman admitted. “I had to go “Our goal was to make the even Hull’s own band mate’s
to the bathroom so bad ‘cause I Jeremiah Edmond (drums),
Robert McDowell (guitar), loudest parts louder and the heads. Freeman admitted that
was kind of drunk and we’d just quietest parts quieter,” Freeman for the most part, he isn’t quite
Jonathan Corley (bass)
played. This girl looks at me and said. sure what the lyrics to the music
just starts bawling her eyes out FORMED The effect leans on the he’s playing actually mean. He
and shaking.” (Wait ... it gets 2004 in Atlanta, Ga. dramatic side, but the band’s confessed, “A year later I’m like,
worse.) “I tried to comfort her other influences — including ‘Oh hey, what the hell were you
until she grabbed my butt. And LABEL the Pixies and Neutral Milk talking about?’”
then it got really awkward.” Favorite Gentleman Hotel as well as what Freeman Remember back when you
Finally, there’s the whirlwind described as the “nasty, grungy, thought you were the only one
schedule. The band played 300 LATEST RELEASE
Mean Everything To Nothing loud” sound of Atlanta bands like listening to Kings of Leon, and
shows in one year following its Dead Confederate — keep the then it turns out most of your
first major release, I’m Like A
(2009)
edge on. As far as what influence friends were, and then suddenly
Virgin Losing A Child, and the ON THE WEB growing up in the South has had everyone you know name-drops
promotion for this record is just www.themanchester on his music, Freeman said, “We them as their favorite band? Well,
as intense. Freeman said it’s “tour, orchestra.com were all raised in the church, so with Manchester Orchestra,
tour, tour” until Thanksgiving. “I I think that definitely affected your friends are onto them, but
saw the schedule about halfway said), the constant togetherness us musically, and we listened to the band’s music hasn’t exactly
through this last tour, and I makes them tighter. a lot of Christian music growing infiltrated mall department
thought I was gonna have a “When it came time to write up.” stores. It is not a bad spot to be
mental breakdown.” for a record, it was just super easy. Though the discovery of — all of the awareness without
All of that touring does have We’d been around each other for, Radiohead in high school steered the over-saturation that happens
its perks, though. In addition to you know, ever — every day,” the musicians in a different after a big hit song. But at this
upcoming shows in Australia, Freeman said. “Playing all of direction, religious themes do rate, it’s only a matter of time.
England and a gig at Lollapalooza
(“My favorite festival,” Freeman
those shows, you end up getting tend to pop up in singer and
better by default.” guitarist Andy Hull’s lyrics. For — Julie McCollum
defying description
eric lindell can’t be pinned down
Eric Lindell is a blues
musician. Wait, no — he’s a soul
artist. Actually, hold on there. He ERIC LINDELL
might be a funk musician. Or
a practitioner of New Orleans
inflected rhythms. Or a reggae WHO’S WHO
Eric Lindell (vocals, guitar)
artist. Or ... well, what is he
exactly? FORMED
All of the above and none 1993 in San Mateo, Calif.
of the above, said Lindell, 40,
during a recent phone interview LABEL
from his home in New Orleans. Alligator Records
The San Matteo, Calif., native
has been performing music for LATEST RELEASE
much of his life, but still doesn’t Gulf Coast Highway (2009)
know quite how to define his
ON THE WEB
style. “It’s kind of all over the www.ericlindell.com
place,” Lindell said.
The musician’s latest album,
Gulf Coast Highway, came out in His musical style continued
April and, like his other releases, to evolve, as he moved to New
combines elements of soul, York City in 1998 and played
New Orleans funk, blues and some gigs there before moving
other styles to create something to New Orleans in 1999. That
unique. Though some critics city quickly became his adopted
have tried to pigeonhole him as home. Upon arriving there, he
a blues or New Orleans artist, discovered the area's roots music
Lindell eagerly admits he doesn’t scenes. He hung out in West
fit into one category, and that’s Bank dive bars in Gretna and
the way he likes it. After all, his Algiers, Louisiana, where he met
tastes in music have always been older musicians who helped him
diverse. Throughout his life and get regular gigs.
career, he’s been influenced by a Lindell has come a long way
variety of artists, including blues since those days. In the 16 years
singer Buddy Guy, reggae artists following the release of Bring it
Toots and the Maytals and Back, he’s recorded several more
Motown acts like Sly and the albums. His last three discs have
Family Stone. “To me, it seems been for the independent blues
pretty broad,” Lindell said. label Alligator Records, including
Perhaps one of his earliest Gulf Coast Highway. Since that
musical influences was the Los courtesy alligator records album’s release, Lindell has
Angeles band Fishbone, which spent most of his time touring
combined multiple styles, to promote it and is already
“Every record I made in the studio, I just musing on what he wants to do
including punk, funk and ska.
knocked out live. I really took my time with this with his next album. But, for the
That sort of versatility impressed
Lindell, even in his mid-teens, one. Sonically, the record came together nice.” meantime, he’s happy with Gulf
and he credits Fishbone with Coast, which he considers his
most technically assured album
inspiring his loose, undefined — Eric Lindell — to date.
style. “They crossed all genres,
kind of seamlessly,” Lindell said. “Every record I made in
wanted to form a skate band.” honed his guitar and bass studio, I just knocked out live,”
Lindell’s been playing Lindell played the bass in the skills and eventually added the
music practically his whole Lindell explained. “I really took
band, though it wasn’t his first harmonica to his repertoire. my time with this one. Sonically,
life. He received a guitar at choice. “I wanted to play guitar Lindell played with a few short-
age 10 and, just four or five the record really came together
really bad,” he said. “But my lived bands in California before nice.”
years later, Lindell joined his friend was the better guitar starting his own band in 1993.
first band, which consisted of Whatever the future holds,
player, so I got demoted.” In 1996, he produced his debut one thing’s for sure: it won’t be
him and a few friends. “We That little setback aside, album, Bring it Back, and began
were all skateboarders,” he easy to define.
Lindell was quickly hooked building his reputation as an
explained. “And we decided we on music. As he got older, he eclectic artist to watch. — Amanda Cuda
Released in 2000, it hit No. 6 on added, “The glory and all … it’s show. Both the hot-rod strap
Billboard’s Heatseekers chart,
became its 44th Top Album of ERIC HEATHERLY shallow compared to what artists and the arresting new handcuff
can really do.” Not to mention strap are distributed worldwide
the Year and yielded three Top his anatomy. It’s quite a visual, at Guitar Center stores (the latter
40 singles. His best known song, though something of a grey area. wherever Levy’s Leathers products
WHO’S WHO
“Flowers on the Wall,” grew to Eric Heatherly (vocals, Heatherly’s self-penned, highly are sold). Just don’t let the cuffs
be the third Top Country single guitar) contagious “Unforgettable” was fool you: this is one man who is
of 2000 and the No. 1 video featured in a recent episode of neither chained in nor imprisoned
on both the Great American FORMED TV’s “Grey’s Anatomy” (On a by the industry.
Country (GAC) and Country 2006 in Nashville, Tenn. related note, Playgirl named him “Every single song [on Cry]
Music Television (CMT) stations. one of country music’s top five is a different vibe and mood,”
He was the sole — and acoustic LABEL
Mercury Nashville sexiest singers, twice). he reflected. “‘Bluer ‘n Blackie’
— opener for Merle Haggard at Oh, and another thing. This is mainly for guitar players,
the Ryman Auditorium in 2003. artist, who is such in every sense ‘Unforgettable’ is like roll your
Heatherly has recorded two LATEST RELEASE
2 High 2 Cry (2009) of the word — he paints, for one, windows down, ease back and
more works, 2002’s Sometimes It’s plus plays at least 10 instruments groove, and ‘Curb Appeal’ will
Just Your Time and The Lower East ON THE WEB — is really quite a tool. He single- make you get a speeding ticket.
Side of Life in 2005. Sometimes isn’t www.myspace.com/er- handedly founded a clothing/ I’m getting a really, really good
widely available, but it does surface icheatherly music accessories company, and unexpected response from the
online from time to time. Life some of his designs have made rawness of ‘Close.’”
traveled to Europe and spawned their way into the Musician’s Hall When it comes to music-
six top 10 singles. day one — make a living playing
music and be able to pay the bills of Fame in Nashville. He also co- making, Heatherly just can’t
Speaking of life, Heatherly got created and patented the hot-rod shake the ache — he’s booked up
an early start on it. He wrote his with a guitar around my neck.”
One way he’s taking matters seatbelt guitar strap, featured on a through 2010.
first song at age eight, took the Guitar Player cover. “I’ve spent the last three years
stage at thirteen, then confronted into his own helping hands is by
placing copies of 2 High 2 Cry and Lately the strapping star has writing, touring and recording for
the college circuit for a two-year fashioned a handcuff design my real true fans,” he said. “I paid
stint at Yesterday’s (now Midtown more merchandise (like original
lyrics) on eBay, passing along a and divulges he made one for for the making of this record one
Music Hall) in his hometown Miley Cyrus mere weeks ago. He gig at a time.”
of Chattanooga on the banks of portion of sales to the Make-A-
Wish Foundation. describes it as soft pink, stone- Stay tuned, and do remember
Graysville, Georgia. lined leather with handcuffs. He his name. Knowing Heatherly,
“If someone asks me what I’m “Make-A-Wish is close to my
heart,” he said. “I’ve sent several also made a tough jet-black leather he has plenty more hot one-of-
doing now, I tell them, ‘The same strap with black cuffs for Billy Ray a-kind surprises up his well-
thing I’ve done since I was five kids on Disney cruises already
… I love animals and children.” Cyrus. The original design locked outfitted sleeves.
years old. I never stopped,’” he in a “Show Stopper” designation
said. “This was really the goal from Heatherly, who rescued his dog,
Lucky, from an animal shelter, at this year’s prestigious NAMM — Melissa Coker
minding its
with all four members. It’s pretty any type of buzz, ya know?” critical bar set for it, or the band fun to play in every night.
lucky to have it be that way.” The formula behind Manners is doomed for the all-too-often During Manners’ tracking,
Long before Donmoyer — was, for the band, quite simple. failure in the eyes of commercial the quintet employed the help
before every band member, “Musically, we wanted it to be expectations — and a lot of fear of an unexpected (and much
actually — Passion Pit was very positive and euphoric. The can sprout from this concept. younger) source for the backing
born from the simplest of best way to describe it would be “I guess [what we fear from] vocal pads on the album — a
manners
circumstances. Chunk of Change, like a cure,” said Donmoyer. “So the buzz standpoint, that Chunk children’s choir.
the band’s 2008 EP, was actually whenever you put it on, you feel of Change is the last thing that “It was so humbling and
a solo production of now- better. Like a drug kind of thing. will ever be good; that the full inspiring to see. They were so
frontman Michael Angelakos, However, lyrically it hits on a length doesn’t live up to it or on point and didn’t seem like
recorded two years prior as a lot of pretty dark subjects. That something, that we’ll just be a 4th and 5th graders. They were
Valentine’s gift for his girlfriend kind of contrast, I think, is in all flash in the pan,” said Donmoyer. better singers than I am,” said
at the time. Now, Angelakos the music that I love, we love.” “We were 21 when we made it. Donmoyer with a laugh. “It
has a full band, a record deal If Manners is a drug, critics Please stop comparing us to was an after school program,
The buzz instigated (actually, two — one with the
boutique Frenchkiss Records
aren’t the only ones addicted.
Fans, too, are quickly catching
bands that are on their seventh
and eighth album and were in
because their public school
doesn’t have a music program,
by five Boston kids in the U.S. and the other with
Columbia across the pond)
on. Not only is Passion Pit
gracing the stage (or has already)
their mid-30’s when they made
[hit records]. See promise, but
with an amazing director who
knows how to approach music
and gigs from Atlanta to Paris of nearly every important music don’t see this as our end-all-be- for younger years — mainly pop
just barely able to behind the band’s official debut,
Manners.
festival this year (Bonnaroo,
Glastonbury, Lollapalooza,
all and every single thing we
have.”
music — and that’s what we
wanted. A bunch of kids, not a
buy a Sam Adams at Unless you’ve been living
under a rock, it’s been hard to
Austin City Limits), but they
are touring non-stop, collecting
The boys of Passion Pit
aren’t the first group of kids to
polished choir, just kids singing
their hearts out and that’s totally
avoid the buzz instigated by a mere 14 days off from May release a heavily-hyped record what they did. It was really kind
their local beer joint these five Boston kids just barely
able to buy a Sam Adams at
until Christmas Day (at least 10
shows in that span are already
of late (think MGMT and
Vampire Weekend) — but their
of moving.”
Rave reviews. A buzz for
is inescapable — and their local beer joint, marqueed
by sterling reviews from Clash
sold out).
“[Tour dates] on the MySpace
similarities to these brethren
serve, if nothing else, to actually
which bands spend a lifetime
searching. Throngs of fans and
Magazine (9/10), Rolling Stone are very limited to what actually highlight the differences. ticket sales through the roof.
quickly making its (4/5 stars), Paste Magazine
(92/100), Spin Magazine (3/5
is happening, just because we’re
going to be coming back to the
“I mean there are definitely
songs that are electro-pop, but
All signs point north for
Passion Pit — but can they
MUSIC POP
the metal revival inspiration from odd places
one band’s struggle to make it with metal finally pays off andy gonzales has a new album and a new direction
Metal thrashers Chimaira For many musicians, writing,
(pronounced Ka-mare-ah) are playing and recording music is not
among an elite list of metal their full-time job. Too often (and
bands from the late ‘90s credited this is certainly true in Athens)
for a movement known as the the singer in the midnight slot
New Wave of American Heavy at Caledonia has someplace
Metal (NWAHM). While the to be in eight hours. But from
movement may have been a slow these day jobs comes inspiration
process through the latter of the — Andy Gonzales can attest
‘90s and the beginning of the to that.
Gonzales, an Athens
‘00s, these days Chimaira has mainstay for a decade, has worn
finally gained momentum on many hats during his Classic
the metal scene. Lead guitarist City days. Once a member of
Rob Arnold discussed all things Music Tapes and Of Montreal,
metal recently during a phone he’s best known as creator and
interview.
CHIMAIRA keeper of Marshmallow Coast
(briefly M Coast). And while
Nicole Black: It seems like metal he’s also Andy from Denver
faded and went underground in and A.G. Forrester, during the
WHO’S WHO
the late ‘90s/early ‘00s but it seems Mark Hunter (vocals), workday he’s Registered Nurse
more and more there’s a rebirth in Matt DeVries (guitar), Rob Photo: Adrenaline PR Gonzales. And it’s there the
the metal scene today. It just seems Arnold (lead guitar), Jim muse will hit him.
the support is emerging again for LaMarca (bass), Andols So everybody’s always singing helps us out and keeps us sane.’ “I work in endoscopy; I’m MARSHMALLOW
metal music, would you agree? along in English to the words. NB: Do you think your music
Rob Arnold (RA): I totally agree.
Herick (drums), Chris Spi-
cuzza (keyboards/FX) I think it will be the same way is responsible for the actions of
totally inundated in that world,” COAST
Gonzales said. “I have this song
I don’t really know what to say in Russia. others? For example, if a mosh- in my head right now called
photo courtesy andy gonzales
or why but we (Chimaira) were FORMED pit gets out of control at a show or WHO’S WHO
1998 in Cleveland, Oh. ‘Poop Cycles’, which is gonna
definitely affected by that. We NB: Would you agree the key someone commits a crime listening Andy Gonzales (guitar, vo- “Im never going to be on VH1; why don’t I just write
be like this great ’80s song about cals), Sara Kirkpatrick (flute,
were a young, up-and-coming to musical success is constant to your music; do you feel the band pooping — probably the first whatever absurd lyrics come to mind? That’s more real.”
LABEL touring? is responsible? percussion)
metal band in the early 2000s. Ferret Music and last song about it. But I can’t
RA: Totally, especially with RA: I personally don’t think On this album: Heather
I don’t know what people were change the lyrics; the lyrics are — Andy Gonzales, Marshmallow Coast —
McIntoch (cello), Jesse
listening to at that time but LATEST RELEASE metal. That’s really the only way that at all. I think that’s unfortunately stuck with that Flavin (guitar), Will C. Hart
metal certainly wasn’t as popular Infection (2009) to have your band known is to ridiculous. Every person is title. It could be this amazing (4 -track madness) where my interests have been for about his approach. A fiddler of
as it is now. play, play, play and let the word responsible for their own song that’s going to end up as a quite a while.”
sounds and lyrics, Gonzales is
ON THE WEB of mouth spread. There’s no actions in my eyes. Obviously, joke video on YouTube.”
FORMED Where other Marshmallow comfortable with the recording
NB: You have an upcoming www.chimaira.com radio for metal bands, or videos. somebody has a problem if Three years removed from 1999 in Athens, Ga. Coast albums, such as Slang and tools that allow him to create
summer tour with Hatebreed, was You have to catch an hour of they can’t decipher between his previous release (Say It Ride the Lightning, bounded with songs from his bedroom. And he’s
Hatebreed ever influential to your Head Banger’s Ball on a Friday right and wrong and feels some LABEL
Europe but it just happened to in Slang under the M Coast independent jazz piano riffs, 1960s psychedelic embraced his identity and voice
style? night at one in the morning; it’s form of entertainment drives moniker), Gonzales dusted off pop and nods to classical music, amidst the sea of songwriters.
work out perfectly. We were
RA: They probably came the only time you get to see a you to do something crazy the Marshmallow Coast name Phreak is a child of the 1980s. “I have the freedom to work
able to work the dates out before LATEST RELEASE
out a year before us. While metal video. But yeah, word of or commit a crime or fight. and returned to the racks with Gonzales sought to create on whatever I want. I can record
our European headlining tour. Phreak Fantasy (2009)
we’re all huge fans of the mouth and touring is the only Perhaps indirectly but in no way Phreak Phantasy. The nine- electronica, but not the electronica a song I feel OK about releasing
band, I wouldn’t say they were way to build a successful career. directly do I think our music is song collection of “nasty and ON THE WEB listeners would expect. at home, which is something I
NB: I’ve always wondered about
influential. They’ve always been responsible. weirder” tunes has Gonzales www.myspace.com/marsh- “My major influences before never had before. If somebody
these other countries that might
a hardcore band. We came NB: Do you feel like your music singing to drum machines and mallowcoast were classical music and turn- else delivered my songs, it might
not know English that are fans
from hardcore bands but we makes people angry or do you NB: And it seems like it’s more synthesizers, aided by his wife, of-the-century French music, so sound crappy, but I hope in my
of American music, when they are
wanted Chimaira to be a metal think your music’s a therapeutic like parents trying to find an Sara Kirkpatrick, and Circulatory I feel like I’ve gotten away from delivery there’s a little sarcasm
there rocking out, are they singing
band. So I wouldn’t say they outlet for anger? excuse for their kids’ actions. System’s Will Hart with some that,” he said. “I’ve been inspired that makes it OK,” he said. “A lot
in English? “I left the band, and he went
influenced our music because RA: I would say the latter — RA: Absolutely. I remember “4-track madness.” by ’80s production and drum of songwriters try to write for this
RA: You’d be surprised; on to do that with great success.
we were doing two different a therapeutic outlet for anger. being young and my mother The seventh Marshmallow machines. I’m trying to approach audience that isn’t their audience.
everybody everywhere in the I was about to record an album
genres of heavy music. But like And we hear that all the time. thinking heavy metal music was Coast album, stamped with the the kind of modern music style They try to write for a bigger
world speaks English. There that was going to be kind of like
I said, we’re all huge fans. So many people say, ‘Oh I’m in all about Satan and drugs. Of Elephant 6 seal of approval, has like what I think electronica is. I audience than they have, like, ‘I’m
are so many countries over that with Derek (Almstead), but
this rough spot and Chimaira’s course there are those relations Gonzales reaching into his past.
don’t listen to that kind of music, gonna write songs that could be
there (Europe) that are taught Derek was, ‘No, let’s do drums;
NB: What made you decide to music really helped me out’, or but I turned out to be a good “Forever ago, I used to be in but I want to use those tools and played on VH1.’ I’m never going
it 1st through 6th grade and let’s make it a big production.’ I
include Russia on this fall tour? ‘Chimaira’s music saved my life.’ kid and certainly not Satanic in Of Montreal and Kevin (Barnes) create my own version. I’m trying to be on VH1; why don’t I just
everybody has to learn it thought that was a great idea. We
RA: The right offer came in. A lot of the troops overseas, anyway. And now she’s totally and I were talking about doing to approach that from a naive write whatever absurd lyrics come
because it’s such a universal did that record as M Coast. Now
Things just never worked out we get letters or (Myspace) happy and supports me and is this kind of upbeat music with perspective.”
to mind? That’s more real.”
language. For the most part we that I have my home studio, I’m
scheduling wise or time wise comments from them saying ‘It’s proud of what I do.
drum machines, synthesizers When it comes to making
rarely run into places where the gonna go on this path I meant
while we were going to be in brutal over here but Chimaira and keyboards,” Gonzales said. music, there’s nothing naive — Ed Morales
majority doesn’t speak English. — Nicole Black
to go on five years ago. That’s
WHO’S WHO
Israel Nebeker (guitar,
vocals), Ryan Dobrowski
(drums), Luke Ydstie (up- PC Sales & Support
right bass, vocals), Dave
Jorgensen (keyboard, Networking
trumpet), Kati Claborn
(dulcimer, banjo, vocals), Printer Sales & Service
Ian Krist (vibraphone)
FORMED Phone & Surveillance
2008 in Portland, Ore. Systems
LABEL Website Building
Expunged Records
& Hosting
LATEST RELEASE
3 Rounds and a Sound Email Hosting
(2008)
Call us today to see how we can streamline your IT.
ON THE WEB
(706)-549-6781
http://blindpilotmusic.
wordpress.com
Cheated” and “Love.” With the When the clock hit midnight [Matthews] was a humbling said, “but, of course, there are the
CD, which has sold more than That’s a side of my life.”
1.4 million copies, the world
on March 8,1970,some certainties
were established: artists such as
VAN HUNT experience. … Here’s a guy
making a million dollars a show,
natural pleasures like love that
will always come to relieve you
of R&B had seemingly found — Keyshia Cole — James Brown and Ray Charles and he was as down to earth from the hard times.”
a younger version of Mary J. had paved the rudiments for soul WHO’S WHO as could be,” Hunt said in a Hunt is currently working
Blige. music, Stax Records had formed Van Hunt (vocals, guitar, smooth, easy-going voice that on his latest album, Popular,
“That was six years ago,” “We know everything about in Memphis and the singer Van bass, keyboards, drums) incorporates the compelling and a collection of unreleased
recalled a maturing Cole during my mother and my family and Hunt was taking his first breaths classiness that percolates through studio outtakes, Use In Case of
a rare, slow moment in her what I’ve been through and of Dayton, Ohio air. Once bound
FORMED his music. Emergency, that will supplement
summer touring schedule. “I the road it took to get here,”
1997 in Atlanta, Ga.
together, those oxygen molecules Hunt worked with Dallas Hunt’s planned two-year tour
was young when I went to L.A. said Cole, who’s ending her TV layered Hunt’s lungs with soul, Austin in Atlanta until 2008 and with his band. Before that
and first got my deal. Also, me LABEL
show and allowing the spin-off, jazz, funk and, damn it, some Blue Note has since moved out west to Los happens, however, the solo artist
and my family, we’ve all grown. “Frankie & Neffe,” to air in all amazing talent. Angeles. The move to L.A. can must tackle the task of selling his
I’ve grown as a musician, as its drama-filled delight this fall. In asking Hunt about the LATEST RELEASE be a whirlwind for anyone, but music. Since the albums are all
an entertainer. I’ve learned so That’s too bad for fans itching process of making his records, he Popular (2008) for Hunt it became a balancing Hunt, the business has become
much more about the business to see footage of the artist all replied, “Well, since it’s just me, act. all Hunt; in both a literal and
and how to handle myself and hugged up with current boyfriend it can take some time, man.” In ON THE WEB “I just stay away from [the figurative sense, he must prey on
actually prepare. I’ve evolved as and Cleveland Cavaliers guard 2006 the Recording Academy www.vanhunt.com fast-paced life of L.A.],” he says those who truly appreciate his
a person throughout everything Daniel Gibson. recognized this process by of his decidedly low-key lifestyle. work.
in my life.” “When I’m singing about pain, honoring Hunt with the Grammy “I’ll just stay inside, play music “It’s hard to get a perspective
Since those days of getting you can actually feel it,” Cole for Best R&B Performance by a industry, but at the end of the and stay away from it.” [of the music industry] from
her feet wet, Cole has released said. “It’s not something that Duo or Group with Vocals for day, it’s the votes of your peers After all, soul music, in its the outside looking in,” he said.
two more heartfelt albums, 2007’s somebody wrote for me. That’s his collaborative work with John that really matter.” broadest sense, is a blend of “But I wanna get my work out
Just Like You and A Different Me my life. That’s my family. That’s Legend and Joss Stone on Sly Peers are something of which the sacred gospel music and to people who already love my
in 2008. Cole has also changed in COURTESY keyshia cole a side of my life. But my music and the Family Stone’s “Family Hunt has many, ranging from the profane blues music. It’s work and to people who might
both the physical sense (another side is definitely something Affair.” his work with Dallas Austin as though Hunt just lets the love my work. If I spend less
move, this time to Atlanta) and the 27-year-old songbird are in “Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is,” to manager Randy Jackson —
different. That’s why I wanted “Man, despite all the politics world present the profane and money making a record, I may
symbolic one (she’s a certified her personal life. But it’s likely that has shown confrontations yeah, the guy from American
to try something different. And that go behind it, that was one encapsulates it with his sacred make less, but I know I will be
star with more than three million you already knew that, seeing as with her mother, Frankie, fights Idol — to sharing the stage with
that’s why I named this album A of the bigger pleasures I’ve had,” talent. getting it out to the people who
in domestic album sales). all her business is pretty much with her sister, Neffe and DNA Coldplay, Curtis Whitehead and
Different Me.” Hunt said of the humbling “Most of my songs are about truly love my art.”
Still, the area where things public knowledge because of searches featuring guys claiming The Dave Matthews Band.
experience. “The momentum the everyday struggles and that
may have altered the most with a revealing BET reality show, to be Cole’s father. “Working with Dave
— DeMarco Williams for the show comes from the life gives you no promises,” he —Will Hackett
WHO’S WHO
Carter King (vocals, guitar,
banjo, drums), Payton
Bradford (vocals, drums,
mandolin, guitar), Daniel
Womack (vocals, guitar,
banjo), Thomas Johnson
(vocals, guitar, banjo,
mandolin), Brannen Miles
(vocals, bass), Dennis Love
(pedal steel)
FORMED
2008 in Athens, Ga.
LABEL
independent
LATEST RELEASE
Futurebirds EP (2009)
PHOTO: Alyssa De Hayes ON THE WEB
www.myspace.com/thefu-
They had the big show booked, turebirds
the studio time slotted, the songs “What I’ve heard, which I like the best, is we’re
poised for production. What they psychedelic cowboy country-esque but with a
Holt (percussion, vocals) round
didn’t have was time.
It was the start definite weirdo edge to it.”
out the crew.
of March, and the seven members
An online roster of band
of Futurebirds were rushing to — Carter King, Futurebirds— members lists an eighth Futurebird,
record an EP to showcase at their
one with a curious yet familiar
March 4 gig opening for Blitzen
eponymous six-track EP (available were.
name: Reverend Cleophus James,
Trapper at the 40 Watt. Playing in
for download at futurebirds. “I knew a little bit about them master of the doom stick. After
different groups over the years, the
bandcamp.com) is exactly what being an Athens resident — you a little investigating, the truth is
band members had a good feeling
the seven sought. A mixture of kind of have to — but I didn’t revealed; Rev. James was the name
about their brewing, underground
melodies accompanies a healthy really do a bunch of investigating of James Brown’s character in the
sound. But something else was
helping of guitar, banjo, mandolin, until we heard all that comparison cult classic “The Blues Brothers.”
brewing overhead.
keys and pedal steel in a wide- stuff,” he said. “People go, ‘You “Yeah, James Brown is in the
“We wanted to record in two
ranging free-for-all that’s difficult sound like these bands,’ but I band,” King said with a laugh.
days, but we had to record in
to describe — though King gave haven’t really listened to those “He’s our spiritual adviser.”
two and a half days because we
it a shot.
bands. I guess Athens just has that Summertime saw the band line
got snowed out,” said Carter
“What I’ve heard, which I kind of feel.”
up dates in Nashville, Tennessee;
King, Futurebirds’ “grease-stained
like the best, is we’re psychedelic Joining King in this latest Atlanta; New Orleans and Austin,
monkey wrench” (code for vocals,
cowboy country-esque but with enterprise are buddies from Texas. And while the wanderlust
guitar, banjo and keys player), of
a definite weirdo edge to it,” he previous (and present) ventures is the sign of a band raring to
the freak snowstorm that left
said. “Everybody plays something and buddies who moved from go, unlike the recording of the
Athens in a deep carpet of white.
different on every song.”
other projects. Payton Bradford auspicious EP, King said this time
“It never snows in Athens. We
For some, the sound evokes (drums), Thomas Johnson they’re not in any particular hurry.
were just trying to crank that out.
the Athens of a dozen years (mandolin, guitar) and Brannen
“We all met in college and had
We got some cardboard sleeves,
ago, when the denizens of the Miles (the bassist who took over all been in a few different bands,
I made a stencil, and we spray-
scene were ruled by Elephant for China-bound Reid Scott) but no one was getting the kind of
painted the stencils all crazy —
6 and Kindercore bands. King anchor Futurebirds; they also sound they were after,” King said.
some of them sucked, some were
was intrigued after hearing his play with King in The Interns, a “But we found it. It was a slow
cool — and just gave them out.”
band compared to Olivia Tremor folk rock outfit started after they evolution and it is all working
In a few furious days,
Control and Masters of the met as (you guessed it) interns at itself out. We’re all still young and
Futurebirds’ good feeling was
Hemisphere, though notes there Chase Park Transduction Studios. fresh — we’re not in a rush.”
confirmed. And now flocks
of listeners are heading their was never any intention to mimic Daniel Womack (guitar), Dennis
them. He hardly knew who they Love (pedal steel) and Jessica — Ed Morales
direction. Fresh yet familiar, the
— Laurie Moot
Before I even listened to The Idle Hands, I knew the band had a great
sense of humor just from the name of the songs on its first album The
Hearts We Broke On The Way To The Show. Lead singer Ciaran Daly
and his Idle Hands, brother Criostoir on bass, Eileen on keys, Emma
on guitar and Nick on drums, are a trip with their lyrics to “The
80’s Killed Your Boyfriend,” “The Fall” and “Loaded,” showcasing a
dislike of all things popular and mainstream. The first four songs on
the album were made with the help of Mark Needham who worked with The Killers and Cake.
Daly’s voice has serious character, changing the genre of the band from song to song, especially
in the spontaneous sounding must-listen-to “Sunshine On The Tenements,” that may possibly
be the best song on the album. One second, The Idle Hands are punk rock, the next, electronic
infused pop, and the next, new-wave…it goes on and on, even entering the realm of disco and
just plain rock. They add a little bit of the synth player to get that new-wave rocker sound
in their radio hit “Loaded” and “The 80’s Killed Your Boyfriend.” If you are a fan of the Arctic
Monkeys, look no further. This band is definitely for you. Song “Space Thing” reminds me of
the voice of a softer, grungier version of James Mercer, lead vocalist in The Shins. The band
members hail from Irish decent and the Midwest, making the mixture of sounds on this album
interesting, unique and just plain good. Album set to release September 8th, 2009.
— Sarah Saltzman
Being one of the most successful bands in recent memory, DMB has
delivered, yet again, a kick-ass collection. With the death of founding
saxophonist LeRoi Moore, DMB proves that a table can indeed stand
with one leg missing. The New Orleans' roots that scream out of Big
Whiskey and the GrooGrux King should serve as a perfect tribute to
Moore, who died from complications after injuring himself in an ATV
accident. The opening sax solo “Grux,” is an unintended tear jerker with the recent memories
of Moore flowing through the listener's mind. Hit single “Funny the Way It Is” rings the typical
DMB tone, yet its refreshingly new jazz/rock style incorporates the Cajun roots of the album.
Produced by Rob Cavallo, the liner notes do not specify which tracks Moore was a part of, as he
died before the bulk of the recordings were finished. Jeff Coffin (Bela Fleck and the Flecktones)
subs for other tracks on the record and is currently on the road with the band. GrooGrux is a
true New Orleans-style mourning, with its crooning ballads crammed between brawny and
healthy jams.
—Will Hackett
MUSIC THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY MUSIC THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY
1939 - “The Wizard of Oz” premieres in
Hollywood, Calif. 1923 - An ordinance is passed in
1964 - The Kinks Kalamazoo, Mich., forbidding dancers
1969 - The first day of The Woodstock release “You Really from gazing into the eyes of their partner.
Music and Arts Fair begins in Bethel, N.Y. Got Me.”
1993 - Elton John’s lyricist and longtime
1986 – Def Leppard co-writer, Bernie Taupin, is married to
1972 - Paul and Linda McCartney are drummer Rick Allen Stephanie Haymes.
arrested for drug possession after a plays his first concert
concert in Gothenburg Sweden. after losing his left 1994 - Jimmy Buffett’s plane flips
arm in a car wreck. shortly after take off in Nantucket. He
1985 - Madonna’s “Like A Virgin”
august
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
1960 – “The Twist” by
Chubby Checker is released.
1957 - American
Bandstand makes its
1991 - Charges of
1966 - John Lennon apologizes at a 1882 - Tchaikovsky’s
“1812 Overture” 1983 - Jerry Lee Lewis’
31
network debut on ABC, news conference in Chicago, Ill., for 1967 - The Grateful Dead play
assault and property his comment that “the Beatles are debuts in Moscow. wife, Shawn, is found at the wake of a Hell’s Angels
hosted by Dick Clark.
1981 - MTV makes its debut damage are filed more popular than Jesus.” dead at the couple’s member hit by a car in San
at 12:01a.m. with “Video against Axl Rose 2001 - The remaining home. The autopsy would Francisco.
1975 - Stevie Wonder
Killed the Radio Star” by the of Guns N Roses in 1998 - Scott Weiland of Stone dates of Foo Fighters reveal she died of a
signs a seven year, $13
Buggles as its first music connection with a Temple Pilots pleads guilty to felony European tour are methadone overdose. 1986 - Tina Turner receives a
million contract, the
video. riot during a show in heroin possession. cancelled when the star on the Hollywood Walk of 1974 - “The
highest contract in the
St. Louis, Mo. band’s drummer, 1998 - Shania Twain is Fame. Partridge
recording industry at
Taylor Hawkins, is forced to halt a Syracuse, Family” ends
the time.
1997 - Garth Brooks 1975 - Hank Williams, Jr. fell 500 feet admitted to the N.Y., concert when its television
plays a free concert down a mountain in Montana. After, hospital. lightning hits the ground 1906 - The Victor Talking run.
1962 - Robert Zimmerman in New York City’s 40 yards behind the
changes his name legally to two years of surgeries, he returned Machine Company
1973 - Stevie Central Park. stage.
Bob Dylan. to music. commences the 1997 - James Brown
Wonder is seriously 1956 – Big Mama Thornton
manufacturing of the Victrola. becomes the first
injured in a car releases the original version
1991 - Rick James is arrested 1992 – A riot occurs at a concert in The units would sell for $200. U.S. artist to appear
accident. He of “Hound Dog.”
and charged with sexually 1964 - Bob Dylan Montreal after a Guns ‘N’ Roses’ set 1947 - Margaret Truman, in Lebanon after the
permanently lost
torturing a 24 year-old and Joan Baez is cut short because Axl Rose has a daughter of President Harry 1979 - Led Zeppelin released lifting of a travel ban to
his sense of smell 1992 - Kurt Cobain and
woman in Los Angeles, Calif. perform for the first sore throat. Truman, gives her first public its last album, “In Through The the country.
and was in a coma Courtney Love have a child,
time together on performance as a singer Out Door.”
for four days. daughter Frances Bean.
stage. 1952 - The original version of at the Hollywood Bowl to
an estimated audience of 1967 - Brian Epstein, former
1989 - Adam “Hound Dog” is recorded by Willie
1978 - Muddy 15,000. manager of the Beatles, is
1963 - The Beatles make Clayton of U2 Mae Thornton.
Waters performs found dead in his home
their final appearance at the is arrested in from a drug overdose.
Cavern Club in Liverpool. at a White House 1995 - Michael Stipe of R.E.M. 1998 - “Scary Spice” Melanie
his home in
picnic for U.S. undergoes surgery for a hernia. Brown announces her
Dublin, Ireland 1990 - Stevie Ray Vaughn
1974 - Jeff Baxter quits Steely President Jimmy pregnancy.
for possession of and three members of Eric
Dan to join the Doobie Carter.
marijuana. Clapton’s band are killed in a
Brothers. 1985 - Michael Jackson outbids
Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono for helicopter crash.
1977 - The Pretenders
1956 - Elvis Presley releases the ATV music-publishing catalog 1964- The Beatles begin their first played their first public gig.
“Hound Dog.” which gave Jackson the rights 1970 - The Kinks release “Lola.”
American tour in San Francisco.
to more than 250 songs written by John Lennon and Paul 1987 - Sonny Bono
1980 - John Lennon and McCartney for $47.5 million. 1996 - Isaac Hayes, co-writer of “Soul Man,” sends a protest
1980 – In Toronto, 1,400 people announces plans to run for
Yoko Ono begin recording letter to presidential candidate Bob Dole about the use of
riot after Alice Cooper cancels a mayor of Palm Springs, Calif.
their album “Double 1995 - The Grateful Dead decide to cancel their fall tour in the his song, which his supporters had changed to “I’m A Dole
show due to illness. He would win the election.
Fantasy.” wake of Jerry Garcia’s death. Man.”
36 ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE 37
July 3, Casalmaggiore
- Arrived to Italy that morning, show that night. Sort of in twilight
zone due to time change and not much sleep.
- Reacquainted ourselves with how incredibly scary people drive
over here. We came to grips with the possibility that we might not
make it home in one piece.
- Fun show.
- Sang four part a capella “Star Spangled Banner” at midnight for
4th of July....proud to be Americans.
- Richard barfed in his food during a laughing fit at dinner....
tour diary:
mountains of northern Italy. fly from Milano to Brindisi (the
Bellissima! southern tip of Italy). Hungov-
- We were told by the pro- er...badly...
Tishamingo in Italia
moter that we were incredi- - Still hungover, they put us
bly too loud....pretty standard on the very back row of a plane
really. that’s sweltering hot and smells
- At dinner, journalists con- like jet fuel.
ducted an interview for a news- - A member of the band (who
This will be Tishamingo's 4th trip to Italy. This time we are here for just two weeks and playing six shows (“breve” tour). We find on paper. The questions all seemed will remain nameless) passed
these tours that we usually eat and drink our way through this beautiful country. We also have a little time to explore, drink more and try to come back to the Allman out shortly before landing. He
not to get booted from the hotel. We are very thankful to have friends and fans in Italy who love blues and rock ‘n’ roll music and always Brothers. For ex: “Richard, you awoke shaking violently in what
make our trips over very memorable. On this tour we have Tishamingo and our great friend Jason Fuller, who actually played keys on took lessons from Butch Trucks? resembled a grand mal seizure.
our debut album. Due to the fact that the show last night was rained out and rescheduled for Sunday we have only played three shows as Tell us about that.” “Cameron, Other passengers requested
this is written. We are about to head to our fourth show in the town of Traviglio (Tra-vee-leo). Again Graziemille to the wonderful folks do you think Dickey Betts is a a doctor and the flight atten-
who support us and make it possible for us to play music in such a beautiful and wonderful place. Tomorrow we play on the north side of better guitar player than Duane dants pulled out an insulin kit
Lago di Garda in a town called Malcesine (in redneck it is pronounced Mal chesney). That would have been the end of tour party but we Allman?” Or even, “Jason, your and a defibrilator. Apparently,
have a make up gig on Sunday in the Castle of Soiano. This just means two end of tour parties right? By the way, everything in this tour uncle was in Canned Heat. Did this band member had a dream
journal can be accounted for and verified. Some shit you just can’t make up...Ciao! they ever play with the Allman that the plane was crashing. He
— Chuck Thomas, Tishamingo Brothers?” We are still laugh- thought we were going down
ing about the possibilities of and freaked out in his sleep.
that interview going any longer. Needless to say, the ambulance
A typical day in Italy while we are touring looks like this: For example, “If Derek Trucks
9:56 a.m. - Wake up and head down to hotel lobby. Try to catch breakfast and deeelicious caffe greeted our plane on the tarmac
and Warren Haynes had a baby, in Brindisi. Phenomenal...the
(espresso) or cappuccino before breakfast ends at 10.
what would he look like? Would
July 5-7, off July 9, Soiano
11 a.m. - Following breakfast we get in our Fiat Ducato 8.5 passenger van with “Beppe,” our tour - Ate absurd amounts of pas- band has arrived. “What? Ya’ll
he be a better guitar player than - Flew back to Milan. We
manager, at the helm and head to the next town. “Beppe” is short for Guiseppe, sort of like Dick is short ta and drank lotsa vino. don’t like to party?”
Duane Allman?” decided to forego the medical
for Richard. He is a great tour manager and very kind-hearted. Not quite sure he knows what to make - Traveled to Lake Garda - Band member was released
emergencies on this flight.
of us and our antics, but seems to be going with the flow pretty well. (Lago di Garda) one day and re- from medical professionals once
-Set up in the amazing
acquainted ourselves with cul- vitals come back okay. He was
outdoor venue at the Castle of
tural customs of women not given a mild sedative, making for
Soiano.
wearing tops on the beach. a hell of an afternoon for him by
2 p.m. - Stop at Autogrille to grab a small lunch consistiwng of Pasta — they have chefs and full - Show was cancelled on
- Watched way too much BBC. the pool later on. Rumors have
service restaurants at the rest stops over here! The food is delicious even at a highway restaurant. It account of inclement weather.
- Drained the mini-bars in all it that said band member pissed
would be nice to have that on the road in the states. Typical lunch on road? Caprese (7 dollar ball of - We decided to get com-
of our rooms. his pants...really.
buffalo mozzarella w/ tomatoes and basil), large plate of delicious pasta, too much bread, large piece of pletely drunk there on the lake
- Late on the night of July 6, - Drive to amazing old estate
meat, water and wine — either vino rosso (red) or bianchi (white), depending on the mood. No, we instead. As usual, the night
Jess and Chuck got into a mi- that has been turned into a des-
are not here to fuck around or diet. Finish it off with “un caffe” and then back on the road. degraded into talking to our
nor, non-violent altercation with tination they refer to as “Agri-
4 p.m. - Check in hotel. Usually the hotels are pretty nice but every now and again we will wind up friends in accents that seem
the hotel attendant. We some- turismo” or Agricultural tour-
in a place where one could contract hepatitis D. What is that you ask? That would be Hep “D”= All The more like something out of
how managed to avoid getting ism. It was an amazing hotel
Above. Ok...they’re not that bad... Star Wars than anything Ital-
kicked out. That guy was real- with a 2,000 year old church on
ian. Luckily, no one was of-
ly pissed. the premises. Pool was phenom-
fended. Cameron kept buying
6:30 p.m. - Sound check (no load in...sweeet) - Got completely hammered enal, placed conveniently amidst
those beer tower things like
9:30-11:30 p.m. - Showtime! at an incredibly packed bar in a massive olive tree orchard.
they have in Vegas.
Midnight - Sit down for what is usually around a 2 hour dinner (w/ possible “southern rock” Brescia. Learned crude things - Show was really fun. It was
- Night ends with our Italian
interview following). The dinners are pretty ridiculous. Our first dinner on our first night here, Rich- to say to Italian women, made an American Music Festival on
comrades singing the theme
ard our drummer was so full and laughing so hard that he just puked right there on his plate. Had to many friends...well, maybe a a farm. It was also a Sausage
song to "Happy Days," and
include that because it is not something that Richard would normally do. couple enemies, too. Cameron Party....no seriously, they were
doing beer tower stands to see
2 a.m. - Continue drinking, either back at hotel or a bar with new Italian friends. Try to speak ate two roses on a dare from two grilling copious amounts of sau-
how many liters we can drink
Italian, but the drunker we get we end up sounding like Watto from Star Wars. Italian ladies. They then told sage. Okay, there were too many
at once...it's sooo cold when it
???? - Make it back to room hopefully with a few hours to sleep before breakfast. him “bye bye.” drunk dudes there as well.
hits your lips!
the georgia theatre ories of good times to you the same as they do for myself. Be sure to help resurrect those great times by do-
nating to the rebuilding of the Theatre. Thanks for all the great times and fond memories!”
— Kevin Quinn, photographer —
1 2 3 1 2 3
4 5 6 4 5 6
7 8 7 8
9 10
9
11
10 11 14
12 13
Georgia Theatre crowd Particle Herring, Rogers and Sipe (2006) Moonshine Still (2006) Kris D (2006) Halloween (2006) Box Office line in 2006 AthFest (2006) Bling the Children
Classic Theatre Crowd RAQ Wilmot Greene onstage with Perpetual Groove Backstage with Dubconscious & Grogus Basement, Matt Martin (2001) Back Home STS9 (2002) Moonshine Still (2006) The Frequency Tom Hamilton & TAB (2006) . Manchester Orchestra Dubconscious (2006) The
Will Hoge . Perpetual Groove (2006) Les Claypool Frog Brigade Spam Allstars (2006) Grogus (2006)
Jay Markwalter — Singer/songwriter, former High Hat owner: Kevin Lane — The Arcs: Nelson Wells — President, Team Clermont Publicity:
remembering
the georgia theatre I have been very fortunate, over the last 17 years in Athens, to work with
so many great people and musicians as a manager and friend; howev-
I have SO many great memories of the Georgia Theatre, but one that sticks
out in my mind is a show I played there in October 2001 when I was with
My memories are of moments at “The Theatre” and they are powerful; they
date back & include many great shows, including Book of Love, Dead
memories, stories and
favorite shows from years past er, Athens musicians and music industry professionals aren’t just friends – The Possibilities. We’d been asked to take part in a Community Connec- Milkmen, Marilyn Manson, Allgood (& meeting my first business partner
they are family. I am not sure that I stopped in the years of good times to tion benefit show and a day or two before the show was to take place, I got Jimmy McLean there), Derek Trucks at 15 years old, Feist, David Byrne,
realize how much I love the Georgia Theatre until I saw it burning. The a call from the R.E.M. office asking if the band could use our gear to play Dave Matthews Band, The Avett Brothers, Ween, Venice is Sinking, Kud-
Dave Schools — Widespread Panic: scene of barefooted Theatre fans and a former mayor working together to a set when we were done. We said, “sure.” We were asked to keep it a se- zu Bowl IV 1991, Team Clermont Prom with Patton Oswalt & Tiny
hand exhausted firemen drinking water made me realize how much I care cret and we did, but it didn’t matter. The word inevitably got around and Sticks, the Athens Comedy troupe, Drivin & Cryin, & of course witness-
Widespread Panic was playing the Theatre 3/13/1992. This was the key- about the Athens community and what a special place downtown Athens the place was completely sold out by show time. We played some Neil Young ing Wilmot’s proudest moment with the installation of the largest fan on
boardist John ‘Jojo’ Hermann’s first night playing with the band and he is for so many people – especially a landmark structure that thousands have covers with Scott McCaughey joining us, some Big Star and Posies songs earth; just to name a few.
didn’t know that the bands usually enter in the side door on Clayton Street. enjoyed….A ticket for a great show, a stroll past on tip-toes for a look and with Ken Stringfellow, and Pete Buck joined us for “ You Don’t Mean It”
He was stopped at the door by security guard Steve Fleming. Steve was the listen, or maybe just a wave to a friend working inside - that's the Geor- (a song of ours that the Minus 5 had recently covered on Conan O’Brien).
best door man on the planet and wouldn’t let Jojo inside. Jojo tried to con- gia Theatre - the shows run together but the experiences brand the sights, R.E.M. followed and the place went nuts. Somewhere in the middle of the Daniel Peiken — AthensRockShow.com, Analogue Records:
vince Steve that he was in the band but Steve pointed to the photo on the sounds and smells forever!! set, Michael Stipe thanked us and dedicated a song to us! That was one of
wall. It was an old photo with the previous keyboardist, T Lavitz. Af- MANY special nights that I’ve spent at the Georgia Theatre. My first visit to the Georgia Theatre was in 1987 as a University of Geor-
ter almost missing his very first gig with Widespread Panic, Jojo wrote the gia freshman. It was a ‘Carafe and Draft’ at that time and I liked it. Since
classic “One Arm Steve’.
Derek Trucks — Allman Brothers Band/Derek Trucks Band: then it has hosted thousands of unforgettable rock shows and I’ve made my
Troy Aubrey — Nomad Artists: way to hundreds of them. I’ll never forget seeingWidespread Panic, Phish,
There are so many musicians that had a strong tie to that room in Athens. Hot Tuna or the Ramones at the Theatre. I was also lucky enough to see
Owen Gray — Theatre Staff/Nimbleslick Entertainment: We played so many great shows in that room with a lot of different people I have some fond memories of seeing some amazing shows at the Geor- Drivin’ N Cryin, the Drive By Truckers and the Chickasaw Mudpuppies
back to the days when Colonel Bruce Hampton & The Aquarium Rescue gia Theatre during my time in Athens (1988-present)…like The Replace- there. Warren Zevon sang ‘Werewolves of Athens’ on January 22, of 1992.
I started working at The Georgia Theatre in the summer of 2006, dur- Unit were playing amazing stuff. We did a lot of shows with those guys. ments, when during the 1st song some kid threw one of the big Theatre Those memories will never be forgotten and I look forward to creating more
ing Beck. First day in, Wilmot gave me two free tickets to Phil Lesh & beers at Paul Westerberg and he threw his guitar down and jumped off musical memories in the New Georgia Theatre.
Friends, and that’s the kind of person he is — cares deeply about his staff the stage with fists pumped after the kid, crowd surfed around and then
and friends. One great night was a surprise birthday bash for Adam Per- Bruce Burch — UGA Music Business Program: jumped right back up on stage, picked up his guitar and told the kid “not
ry. After a huge dinner we all hung out at the Theatre ‘til very early in the to fuckin’ do that again” and went right back in to “I Will Dare” with- Mike Rizzi — Former drummer, Five Eight:
morning with different musicians playing their hearts out, collective im- The Georgia Theatre wasn’t here when I attended UGA from 1971-1975 out missing a beat! Coolest thing I’ve ever seen. Paul’s been my hero ever
promptu. Now more than ever, I feel what the people and endless nights of and neither was the Athens music scene. I came back here in 2005 to start since.Can’t wait for the new and improved Georgia Theatre, but will miss The biggest memory of all is running into Wilmot Green in Athens a few
music at the Theatre mean to me. the UGA Music Business Program and the first place I went was to the
the old one dearly! years back and he told me that he just bought the Theatre. Then he took me
Georgia Theatre. Wilmot Greene introduced me to the Athens music scene
on a tour of the Theatre (which I've seen many times, but this time was spe-
and I will forever be grateful to him. It felt like coming home.
cial). He had a glow and was proud of his new baby and I totally was hap-
Andrew Heaton — Packway Handle Band: Nic Goodson — Sleepy Horses: py to see him so excited about something I longed to do myself someday. Not
Daniel Hutchens — Bloodkin: a better guy to have to own such a venue. He understands the musician,
The Georgia Theatre was one of our wilder venues and the bar for extreme I stumbled into Athens (without ever having set foot in Georgia before) seeing as he is a great one himself, and has a perspective most owners don't
antics on stage had gotten pretty high. One show, we drew a blank and I remember the "Bar Tab" shows my band Bloodkin participated in, along on a balmy day in August. I had decided to move outta Texas for some rea- have. I don't doubt he'll rebuild and it will be even greater than before.
went on stage with no real plan except to think of something. Nothing with members of Widespread Panic and several other bands around town, son or another.....music...grad school....change of scenery. My first night in
good came to mind, so in a panic, I announced a “sexiest dancer” contest on during the mid ‘90s...those were always great gatherings, lots of old friends, town I heard that Will Johnson (Centro-Matic) would be playing with
stage for a free CD. Several girls got on stage and then the half of us who Patterson Hood and Don Chambers. I found the Theatre (after a long,
Benjy Davis — The Benjy Davis Project:
new friends, just pretty memorable events...and about two weeks before
were paying attention broke into "Happy Birthday" (to “Blah, Blah”) at the fire we did a "Bloodkin & Friends" benefit, and lots of those same fac- long walk around downtown). I fell in love with Athens that night. I
breakneck speed. It was impossible to dance to, but they tried and the result We have always loved the warm welcome the Georgia Theatre and Athens
es from all those years back showed up, and it felt like a full circle...though was in awe of the Theatre. I decided right then that I had to play the The-
was ludicrous. The audience loved it. Half the band was profoundly em- gave us. The fans there rocked. I remember when we were playing with The
I hope it won't be the last time we ever play the Theatre. Let's rebuild it. I ater someday. I've played there quite a few times...however, AthFest 2008
barrassed to have been a part of something so idiotic. I just shook my head Kin, there was a woman at the show who worked at a salon. So we took
also always recall seeing the Replacements at the Theatre, and Soul Asylum Sleepy Horses played with Don Chambers + GOAT....I had come full cir-
and thought “man, what was that?” It was the Georgia Theatre. her backstage after the show, and she gave us all haircuts.
on a different occasion...two of the better rock shows I've ever seen. cle...it was a perfect night."
July 7, 2009
1989
1889 1926 1960’s Oct.,1975 1977 1979 2004
From Wilmot Greene, in his latest
Building erected and con- Reopened as a music venue, Kyle Pil-
Masonic Temple Associated Serves as a worship hall for The Police make a tour public update: “The smoke has cleared
Georgia Theatre shows Sam Smartt, Hap Harris, grim and Bill “Duck” Anderson buy the The Derek Trucks Band
verted into the first YMCA of Athens buys the building. United Methodist Church.
George Fontaine and Shef- stop at the Theatre. and now it’s time to focus on rebuild-
of the South. Would later it’s last movie, building; plan to open Georgia The- recorded Live at the
fy McArthur team up to open ing the Georgia Theatre. I am still
become a department store. “Brotherhood of Death.” atre as a concert venue. First band to Georgia Theatre.
Georgia Theatre as a concert hall. confident that out of all this confu-
play was Pylon on October 2, 1989.
sion something positive will emerge.”
Ed. Note: A special thanks to Daniel Peiken for contributing past Theatre ticket stubs!
july Hey local bands! Got a release date coming up? Let
us know at editorial@athensblur.com
Fabolous
Lose’s Way
Howling Bells
Radio Wars
Sax Ruins
Yaqiauo
aug 18
Lil Wayne
Ryan Starr
Rebirth
11:59
Sean Paul
Ashley Tisdale
Imperial Balze
Guilty Pleasure
Third Eye Blind
M.O.P.
Ursa Major
The Foundation
Brandi Shearer
J-Kwon
Love Don’t Make You Just
Hood Hop 2.5
Paul Burch
Swollen Members
Still Your Man
Greatest Hits
Destroyer
Warren Haynes/Gov’t
Bay Of Pigs [EP] (Vinyl-only)
Mule
Nathan Maxwell And The Original
By A Thread
4
Bunny Gang
White Rabbit
aug
Bill Champlin aug 25
No Place Left To Fall
Jullan Plenti Colbie Caillat
Skyscraper Breakthrough
Circulatory System Matisyahu
Signal Morning Light
Seasick Steve Dolores O’Riordan
Dog House Music No Baggage
The Duke & The King Zechs Marquise
Nothing Gold Can Stay Our Delicate Stranded Nightmare
Cooper Boone Loundon Wainwright III
Cooper Boone High Wide & Handsome: The
11
Charlie Poole Project
The Casualties
1
In Love & War
Cobra Starship
Hot Mess
Raekwon
sept
Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II Whitney Houston
Danny Chaimson And The Title TBA
11th Hour Black Crowes
Young Blood, Old Soul Before The Frost...Until The Freeze
10
you still get butterflies about its release?
MT: Oh, I think anytime you put our new the name to the face of the band.
FORMED
music you’re excited about the fans hearing it 1994 in Gainesville, Fla. And at the same time, we’ve got some good
and other people getting to hear it for the first relationships with different bank people and
time, and the big thing for the band is getting LABEL it’s sort of a difficult economic time, not that
to play new music live. You can write new Croakin’ Poets we are encouraging people to take on debt, but
music and play it live, but without a record it’s we think it’s one of the lowest rates possibly out
LATEST RELEASE there. Obviously we don’t encourage people to
almost kind of pointless because without fans Release (2009)
getting to hear that song ahead of time, or at go get a credit card and put all their spending
least having a recorded copy of it, you get a lot ON THE WEB on it, but we always try to do different things
of people looking at you with blank faces when www.sisterhazel.com with our fans and we felt like this was another
you play music that they’ve never heard before. way to brand our name and brand who we
A Major Step
“In a normal show, I have found in recent
was anything else.” years it’s better to pace yourself,” he said.
“It’s almost like when you’re exercising, you
might get on the treadmill for ten minutes
Bob Crawford or work your legs or whatever you want to
The Avett Brothers do, but you stretch, you get loose. I like to
PHOTO courtesy crackerfarm get loose on those first four or five songs
and pace myself, rather than let it all hang
The Avett Brothers Get a Makeover — Rick Rubin Style by Alec Wooden said Crawford. “The world is very small, and so
I don’t think you’re gonna have people that play
You there will be this huge gap. But if you
take them all in context, it is a nice steady
out and be beat for the last 30 minutes of
the show, which has happened sometimes.”
C
atching Bob Crawford on the a tour with Dave Matthews, all the while thinking about how much like filmmaking ‘old time music’ the way the very bizarre rules of, ladder and a nice progression and very Crawford’s words make perfect sense
road is no surprise. Bassist for prepping for the release of a new studio that that process is and that it's a very visual say, certain types of jazz or rag time do. You’re comparable for us.” coming from (and going to) any musician.
the hell-raising North Carolina album, I And Love And You. process to make a record. For me, there is gonna always have people that try to carry that Apart from the records, Crawford has Such a steady progression is a musical goal
“grungegrass” (we’ll get to that) trio The The well-spoken Crawford sticks out from a lot of commonality in making a movie or tradition on, which is great and necessary and seen a progression in other logical ways — of any band. The commercial success is a
Avett Brothers, Crawford and his bandmates the group in a couple ways, namely the lack television show and being a touring band or we need that. I think the larger population that simply put, for the first time in years as a bonus, and The Avett Brothers enjoyed the
(brothers Seth and Scott Avett) have enjoyed of a particular lineage (obviously, he’s the only in the aspect of making a record, filming and makes music is going to be influenced by a lot band, the Avett Brothers now brim with more rare combination of the two being
a meteoric rise through the musical ranks, Avett “brother” without the last name Avett). logistical things that a lot of people probably of fringe elements. What I mean is, you can’t confidence in their actual playing ability. hand-in-hand. Of course, the terrifying
realized the old-school way: touring. Lots Moreover, he’s the band member that almost don’t think about. It's 80 percent logistics. tell anybody now that they’re a certain genre. The elaborate stage presence for which the side of the coin is that with each new album
and lots of touring. Naturally, then, as wasn’t, nearly choosing a career path in film Creativity, of course, factors in but you need I mean, it’s always 'this meets this', well 'this band is known was, at one time, essentially comes new expectations and all-too-often
Crawford speaks through the traffic noise on production shortly after his move to North to have all of these logistics in place so the means this' and so on. I think ultimately when a cover up for what many saw as relatively crushing pressure from a large and still-
the other end of the line, he must be steaming Carolina and shortly before he got hooked creativity can flow open.” people talk about this period of popular music, sub-par playing ability — now, however, growing group of fans.
toward some new musical high – Bonnaroo, up with the songwriting brothers. Years later, In that flow of creativity, The Avett Brothers it will be a more generational term, where you it’s a compliment to the much improved “What fans can expect from I And Love
MerleFest or any one of the mid-sized there’s little doubt his career that didn’t pan have conjured up some unique genre monikers kind of have a term to represent a generation. I technicality of the members. And You, I would say, is that we expand
performing arts centers across the country out has immensely benefited the one that (or the fans have, more correctly). There’s think it is going to be less jazz/funk or rock and “I think we are only beginning to the range of sound and texture. We play
they’ve come to sell out with a frightening did. “polk” (punk + folk), “bluerock” (bluegrass roll, there will be less of that kind of stuff and understand how to play our instruments and more of the different instruments than I
regularity. “I think about [the similarities] all the + rock) and the ever-popular “grungegrass” more of like, whatever, information age rock or more in a professional manner and I think think we have in the past,” said Crawford.
“Actually,” he said, “I’m driving to Ohio to time, especially with recording I And Love (grunge + bluegrass). Whichever one chooses, technology music, I don’t know.” to make up for the lack of professionalism “The topics are getting broader and deeper.
go see my parents.” And You and the way we did it. In film you a large part of the Avett Brothers appeal, The Avett Brothers have long been a “major” with our instruments, we just let it all There are some songs on the new album
Oh. have storyboard, where you get the shots that particularly to a younger demographic, has player in the music world, with a cult following hang out and leave it all on the stage,” said that are just incredible and then the
Well, if anyone deserves some R & R at you need to get but, you know, you won’t use been the high-profile left turn from the turned super-sized as a result of each album Crawford. “For us, it was always the live songs that we are just playing now and
their folks’ house, it’s these Avett fellas. They every shot. You get so you shoot as much as romanticized view of folk music as old-timey, since the sterling debut (with the current show before there was anything else. We’ve learning that are even newer that I think
claimed over 150 shows alone in 2008, and possible and you edit — that was more of the out-dated or “Deliverance” laden music. lineup) Country Was in 2002. I And Love And always felt like if people are choosing to are even more incredible — so I think that
2009 has already seen them hitting the above approach in recording this album than it had “This is the information age, and You, however, marks the first “major” step for the spend their time with us, we’re going to give the progression just kind of continues.”
listed hotspots and freshly-removed from ever been before. I was kind of beside myself everybody is influenced by everybody else,” band in the literal sense of the word, as the trio them their money’s worth every night and B
T
here’s more than one reason lead singer Adam Lazzara “Emo was a word that we used
of Taking Back Sunday feels new again. Not only does
TAKING BACK SUNDAY to make fun of our friends with.
he have a new album and a new band member, he’s also
a newly married man. It’s no wonder the band chose New Again as I wouldn’t consider myself emo at
the title for its latest release. WHO’S WHO all. It’s weird we got put in that
Adam Lazzara (vocals), Eddie Reyes (guitar), Mark
“Both in our personal lives and wour lives within the band, that’s
just how everything feels,” Lazzara said. “When we were writing O’Connell (drums), Matt Rubano (bass, vocals), category. Maybe it’s because of the
this record, there was this excitement that each one of us had, and Matthew Fazzi (guitar, vocals) bands we’ve toured with. I’ve just
it felt almost like a rekindling of a flame.” FORMED always considered us a rock band.”
Lazzara credits the rekindling to the band’s newest member, Matt 1999 in Long Island, N.Y.
Fazzi, who replaced lead guitarist and vocalist Fred Mascherino
last spring. “With the addition of Matt Fazzi, it really made it fun LABEL Adam Lazzara, Taking Back Sunday
H
Now that’s power. the product is good or bad, it’s just not
big and small, playing in front of tens of a choice and that’s not good for the
thousands and sometimes just tens. consumer. The lack of competition is
Much of the industry has changed in never good for the consumer.”
those 30 years – once a realm inhabited In an analysis of the merger released
by the connected few, the personal by the American Antitrust Institute in
computer and Internet opened the gates April, James D. Hurwitz, who worked
to everyone, whether you want to listen, with the Federal Trade Commission,
create or simply learn about music. ere’s where we’re at. wrote: “Live Nation Entertainment would
“The old model we had of the music In February of this year Ticketmaster be a vertically integrated enterprise with
industry may be dead, but the music has and Live Nation announced they wanted dominance or substantial power on five
never been more alive,” Wakeling said to merge and become Live Nation market levels. The new entity would
as he prepared to take The English Beat Entertainment, a full service company therefore be able to use its strengths
out on a lengthy American tour. “It was uniting the largest ticket distributor in some markets as leverage to gain
all so sown up and cut and dried when I with the largest concert promoter. The customers or compliance in others. This
started, and certainly who you knew or two entities spent years fighting, as vertical integration would effectively
who you could meet could make a whole Live Nation ended its contract with frustrate new entry because, as a practical
big heap of difference. Monopolies were Ticketmaster in 2007 – which gave it matter, it would require firms seeking to
guarded very tightly and to be invited into sole control to sell tickets at Live Nation compete seriously against Live Nation
the monopoly was much sought after. events – and started a ticket service of its Entertainment to enter the industry on
It’s always been a mixture of sharks and own. Ticketmaster countered, buying several levels at once. The second factor
angels attracted to the music business, Front Line, one of the world’s largest is that the merged entity would likely
and I think it’s all for the better now. The artist management companies, and enjoy market power not just as a seller but
whole thing has fallen to bits. It deserved TicketsNow, a secondary ticket sales also as a buyer. In essence, the company’s
to.” subsidiary (read legal scalpers). market dominance would benefit it in
Amid those bits lie remnants of A few years ago, Live Nation started both ways.”
an industry’s past – concept albums, signing several top artists (Madonna, I’m not sure what it means either, but it
cassettes, large record companies, David
F
Jay-Z to name a few) to “360-deals,” certainly doesn’t sound good.
Lee Roth – while what arose remained giving them multi-million dollar
lean and compact. Small, tightly-run payments upfront in exchange for future
record labels, CD collections stored in percentages of their recording, touring
electronic boxes the size of your hand, and merchandising sales.
the music itself reduced to one or two The fight proved costly, as a weakened
downloadable megabytes. economy saw the companies’ sales and
Everything got smaller. stock prices plummet.
But not the live spectacle. What could save them? A gathering of ace it, the arena concert-
Concerts became the behemoth. the giants. going experience is a pain in the ass.
Amphitheaters of steel built in empty lots, “This combination will drive measurable If you’re lucky to get tickets to the
showcasing lights of all colors and sounds benefits to consumers and accelerate the concert of your choice before a) it
to deafen the sky. Lead singers displayed execution of our strategy to build a better sells out, b) Ticketmaster times out
their faces and egos on television screens artist-to-fan direct distribution platform,” your computer before you can make a
200 times their size (or 100 times, in Live Nation’s Michael Rapino said in a purchase or c) Ticketmaster sends all the
Kanye West’s case). statement after merger plans went public. best seats to its secondary-selling site
The crowds grew, the venues grew, and “This merger, and the resources of where you can buy tickets for five times
the tickets prices – oh my did they grow. these combined companies, will create the base price (a practice which reared
A show that was once $35 became $100 a new dynamic and unique creative its crooked head with Bruce Springsteen
(thank you Eagles), then became $350 platform of choice for fans across all levels tickets earlier this year), you’re still left
(thank you Paul McCartney). of the live entertainment experience,” paying a small mint for a few hours of
And yet for the last decade, this growth Ticketmaster’s Chief Executive Irving entertainment in what may be crappy
was steered by the power of two – Live Azoff said. seats.
Nation (the world’s largest live music Sounds good? Of course, for the convenience of
company) and Ticketmaster (the world’s “Monopolies are inherently bad,” said buying tickets online and printing them
largest live entertainment ticketing longtime rock critic Jim DeRogatis, who out yourself, Ticketmaster charges you
company). has written for Spin, Rolling Stone and a fee.
Now they want to be one. now resides as pop critic for the Chicago “We’re kind of on the cheaper end
One company controlling the tickets, Sun-Times. “I miss the corner coffee
the venues, the promotion, the secondary shops. I like Starbucks I drink Starbucks,
B
ticket online? They have no competition ticket-selling plan. companies creates powerful tools for
and they built this huge infrastructure an independent artist to reach their
and that fee just kept creeping up and fans in new and unprecedented ways,
up. If they’re so worried about their fees, all the while restoring the power where
why are they charging you $2.50 to print it belongs.” Corgan, as it turns out, is
out the ticket yourself? Your printer, managed by Azoff.
your paper, $2.50 to do that? Ohhh, they “It’s starting to look a little less
have to pay for that technology. Well appropriate for $150 or $1,000 stadium
you know what, I don’t know how much ono didn’t know. seats tickets to go on and watch a
technology costs but it’s not that hard to When asked by DeRogatis about the band that’s in front of the television
print out your own ticket.” of Ticketmaster/Live Nation merger, screen with the singer dancing and
So you paid for the tickets, the fees, the bespectacled honorary knight, who miming their latest,” Wakeling said. “It’s allowing people to pay on layaway. “Ticketmaster is going to be forced much past their balance sheets.
now it’s time to go to the show to have seemingly knows something about becoming to appear a bit pretentious April’s Coachella festival (The Cure, Paul to sell TicketsNow, and if they do that But the window of opportunity to see
some fun. everything, was clueless to the news. and particularly in this social clime when McCartney, Morrissey) checked in at I don’t think there’s any reason why it bands before they ascend to a new level
“You’re treated like a piece of shit,” “A charlatan and a fraud,” DeRogatis people are losing their jobs, their houses, $269 (or less than a single top-tier seat wouldn’t go through,” he said. “Those are could be closing faster by the day. With
DeRogatis said. “With Live Nation I said of Bono. “If you just made $50 losing any sense of hope for the future. for one McCartney show) to see more a complete conflict of interest, how on controlling interest in all music matters,
resent being treated like cattle. Whether million from somebody, you would It’s as though the artists have in some than 100 bands during the three-day earth anyone ever let that go through the merged companies could seek
it’s the added parking fee, which they do know.” ways separated from the people they’re event. June’s Bonnaroo (Springsteen, blows my mind. But if Ticketmaster does 360 deals with smaller, lesser-known
per ticket – four people carpool out to a In fact in 2008, Live Nation signed meant to reflect on and service.” Nine Inch Nails, Beastie Boys) charged that, then they’ll likely merge with Live bands to join their cadre of superstars.
show and each of them are paying $15 U2 to a 12-year touring deal worth “I know Ticketmaster makes a lot of $250 for the three-day festival, while Nation” Suddenly the up-and-coming band you
to park? $7.50 for a beer? $5 or $6 for a $100 million. And therein lies the next money,” Tim Mahoney, lead guitarist of August’s Lollapalooza (Depeche Mode, Members of the U.S. Congress and wanted to see before it was big has
hot dog? And then in between they have dynamic piece of this improbable puzzle 311 said. “To charge for a ticket now, The Killers, Jane’s Addiction) runs $190. the Justice Department are looking into reached the land of $50 tickets and $9
the audacity to advertise to me? I paid – what are the artists to do? most people buy it online, but the cost And Bluett, for one, is trying to tackle the merger, and some have vowed it will beers.
$50, $60, $100, $250 for a ticket, I just There are vocal barbs on both sides of for that service charge just seems like a the dreaded convenience charge. Ticket not go through. Of course, the winning The power of live music has never been
paid $60 for the whole car to park in the the issue. Many top artists signed deals ton of money. I know our band; we don’t Alternative, handling between 150 and of mergers such as this depends on more important, or valuable, as it is now.
middle of nowhere in a dirt field. You’re with either Ticketmaster or Live Nation, get any of that. It’s not like the bands or 400 venues nationwide in usually smaller how deft the companies are at playing There’s a belief that if the merger goes
lined up, they search your bag and God and their silence is deafening. artists are getting any sort of cut of it venues (such as The EARL and Smith’s political poker – and Live Nation has a through, live music’s best of the best
forbid you brought in a bottle of water – “I think there is a certain amount of … it interests me where all that money Olde Bar in Atlanta), charges less than face card in the hole. (and maybe even its middle of the pack)
throw that away because they’re going to artists spitting in the face of the fans,” goes.” half of what Ticketmaster does. “We only “I think it’s a 50-50 shot, I think will be reserved only for the affluent and
sell you one for $5. The experience is an DeRogatis said. “When Paul McCartney In the end, the artist will set the price make money if we sell tickets,” Bluett this is a really bad time to be selling connected.
inferior one.” was 15 or 16 he was able to see Little at what the people will pay. said, “so we work really hard for our the American public this argument of And those anchored amphitheaters,
This will change with the merger, Richard in Liverpool for the equivalent And they’re paying. venues to help them sell tickets.” bigger is better,” DeRogatis said. “On the much like the high tension wires they
right? of a dollar or two and it changed his “If I was in a band like Coldplay and Of course the merger can only help other hand, the Live Nation board has sit aside, will be forever seen but never
Trent Reznor, the mastermind behind life. Now some kid who’s sitting in a U2 and I heard that people weren’t him, since the overwhelming presence of a really interesting fellow on it named touched.
Nine Inch Nails, is quite vocal about basement learning to play those Beatles going because of the price, I would do one company could spur venues to look Ari Emanuel who happens to be Rahm “The thing that is old as mankind itself
the merger, especially in what happens songs, unless he has access to his dad’s everything in my power to change it,” for alternatives. Emanuel’s brother.” is the traveling troubadour who goes
to ticket prices if it were to go through. gold Amex card at $350 a ticket, can’t Bluett said. “Unfortunately there are “It’s actually a great thing for us if it Who is Rahm Emanuel? He’s President from village to village with his mandolin,
On the NIN Web site, Reznor wrote a see that experience. Paul McCartney has 80,000 other people at the Georgia Dome goes through because a lot of the smaller Barack Obama’s Chief of Staff. puts out his hat and if he’s any good he
scathing review of the events, with a the right to charge whatever he wants, who don’t care and suck it up and say
L
venues are looking now to jump ship, Live Nation with a straight to the king. winds up with a couple loaves of bread
harbinger of things to come. but don’t you tell me you’re an artist ‘Well that what it is, screw you,’ click and like this is the final straw,” he said. “It’s and pennies,” DeRogatis said. “If he’s
W
“My guess as to what will eventually anymore. You’re not. This is now some they bought the tickets. We all do it.” a bit of a win-win, lose-lose for us. On not, he better become a blacksmith.
happen if/when Live Nation and capitalistic cash-in enterprise. How one hand, I don’t want it to go through “People talk about cybersex, but it’s
TicketMaster merges is that they’ll move much money does everybody need for 90 because consumers have a hard enough still just jerking off. It’s not as good as
to an auction or market-based pricing minutes of work?” time getting good deals on buying tickets the real thing. The one experience that
scheme – which will simply mean it will Springsteen fans bellowed after and the exorbitant fees those companies can not be duplicated in this digital age
cost a lot more to get a good seat for Ticketmaster sent tickets to his show to charge are outrageous. On the other is sitting in a room with a musician you
a hot show,” Reznor writes. “They will its secondary selling site, TicketsNow. hand, if it does go through it could mean et’s stop where we started. admire and he or she is playing this
simply BECOME the scalper, eliminating The Boss himself got involved, scolding great things for us because it’s going to For fans of the underground, none incredible music. That remains incredibly
them from the mix.” the company for its practices and hat, if anything, is push more promoters to look for other of this matters much. Clubs and bars valuable – that may be the only part of
“We’re moving to this world where demanding they stop: “The one thing being done? As the economy continues alternatives, which is where we step in.” were never tied to Ticketmaster and the music industry that is still viable.
you have to be filthy fucking rich to see that would make the current ticket to falter while tickets continue to rise...is But the billion-dollar question Live Nation, and likely never will be. And to have that in the control of one
a concert and if you’re not you’re out situation even worse for the fan than it anyone paying attention? remains: Will the merger go through? The underground, after all, is the company is outrageous.”
of luck,” DeRogatis said. Auctioning off is now would be Ticketmaster and Live Some of the country’s larger festivals Bluett sees it happening, though with future before anyone is aware of it, and
tickets “is absolutely what they’re going Nation coming up with a single system, remain a great bargain, and all are some concessions. monopolies are never too good at seeing
ers. The
ontroll
e s k y p lastic c elt faces and
hose p hips m
Forget t ampions t a time
.
. A i r G uitar Ch p e r f o r mance a
U.S , one
$3.99 save th
e world
by Nata
lie B. D avid
BUFFET A R I S T
ons:
Directi rist and
W N GUIT air gui
ta
YOUR O vorite champio
n
MAKE fa to colo
r
go od anytime! 1. Selec
t your
ng th e d o t t ed line
s.
’ gea r -- m a k e sure
cut alo t some rockin
o u es and
(limit one per customer)
2. P i c k n iTun
d i n a t e .
w e r b a llads i use.
coor me po good
k up so ray to
3. Cran f h i s hair sp
o
3190 Atlanta Hwy. put all
706.613.2424
ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE 59
air guitaris
score perfor ts, local music journali
ma
6.0. A perfec nces on the Olympic sts, and radio personal
t score from Figu it
round one, ap re Skating scale: from ies,
tly, is a st
Judging is
ba raight 6-6-6. 4.0 to
merit (the ex sed on a combination
of three crit
guitar), stag tent to which contesta eria: techni
nt
and airness. e presence (how well co s appear to be playin cal
De fi ne d by U.S. Air nt es ta nts win over g the
performance Guit the cr
an art form transcends the imitat ar as “the extent to wh owd)
io ich a
that makes in and of itself,” airn n of a real guitar an
it, well, awes ess is the va d be
ome. riable of Ai comes
“It’s when a r Guitar
person is pl
just standi
ng there ma aying air guitar and
and you go dly gesturin yo
‘Wo g and flaili u forget that they’re
guitar,” Björ w. That guy, or girl,
n illustrate is actually ng their arms about
airness does s. ho
melt faces.” “It’s best experienced lding some kind of
live at a sh
Commonly li ow, and
kened to po
it, airness rnography,
is as
singular el the pinnacle to whic in you know it when
em h yo
what rock ne ent that makes air gu every contestant stri u see
rd it ve
quality that s do at home ar wo rt hy of contest, s, the
turns air gu in their spare time. ra
Photo courtesy itar legend Airness is cr ther than
Photo courtesy For The Fro, s into air gu ucial, the
Natalie B. David it ar gods.
Natalie B. Davi airness lie now in his second year
ce. with the or
iginal U.S. Chof competition, his stan
d rld pea Hello Kitty
h o n o r of wo br
performance. eastplate-clad maniac amp, David “C-Diddy” Ju dards of
rd” in Chris Harden “To me, that’s airness,” ’s 2003 world champion
ng, and that
“Freebi or not, people
what
sh
Like any c i o u s l y n g from Columb , a 34-year-old software says the superhero, al ip winning
n k cons bringi lves ia
but holy cr , S.C. “When I look at th engineer and comic bo s of one
ia
with PBR ormal rock show, “I thin lly about is ots of themse a very ap! Every ti ok author
or, even be things are r e a e i d i h i s at , I kn ow
snuggled it’s ak sic, wh
ic me I watch
it, I get pumphe’s not playing a guit
in the bl tter, straight-up running er to m not
seems lik ack box of liquor, is late. The crowd, p togeth ration of mund it’s about ically The Fro, a ch ed up.” ar,
e any oth
er night, tr endy E getting re lied
in c e l e b
form , a and b a s when embodi aracter pulled from Ha
any other ast Atlanta loung stless while al art iously f the ed by Harden rden’s comic
But look sh ow. e, The Earl. commun yourself ser says Björn o de. “And, and Jeff Ly
nn , is an exub book of the
closer. It “ It’s kind of taking a good time,” conscious s bout.”
i from good ol e. For his regional wi erant cross between St same name,
the ’ Villa Rica n in Atlant ep
Scattered all of having politically ld peace is
a C-Diddy, ligh ), The Fro pe a (he origin hen Colbert
rformed an ally hails
exploding inting candles beneath
thrill
character amongst the chatt t’s r
of the contes hat’s what wo Japan a ho mage to th
“Play With Meto his own rendition of mock-up of the air lege e now retired
OLyMpiCs gland,
s er
‘70s stereo come to life: a m ing crowd are se to me, t and, En orld title, .” nd
on v l C-Diddy’s si
a hybrid type with a mullet strous, spiked ro eral Guitar Hero rom F i n e w gnature song , before
of and Kool cker in bl tants f held th d : Extreme’s
suit weari a dirty hippie ci g a rett ack, a but with a lot more Contes ly have all g three worl the Beyond scor
in
bEeR
a both fans an g, titles or prizes, it
around th ng super hero. Th nd John McEnroe, e-branded pants, a
and I e U.S. produc rs, includin U.S.
t i n g
’s
as The Fr e ro om, mingli
ng wit
e la tter maneu
vers
ev en a spandex
- “ “ with th ns in six ye and two-time
a Atlanta show d contestants coming ba these unique characte
o
is all abo and passes out g h the crowd. He inhis gigantic afro c h a m p i o c h a m p venues fill had a decent turn ou ck year after year. Al rs that keep
u t being sa u it ar picks tr oduces him involved t world ahan. to capacity t, in other,
more establ though the
fe!”), work w curren Hot Lixx Hul stars, like with throng
The stage ing the cr ith his logo (“Air self que n e r ble an
d L.
of whom have A.’s Rockness Monster ans left waiting for entr hed cities,
is
is ba re ,
owd like
a pro.
Guitar -Björn Türo win
i a t e l y likea ir- fan bases th held U.S. titles in 2005 d New York’s William Oc y. Air guitar
This is Ai sa
r Guitar. ve for a spotlig med is a
x is im bout h doesn’t instruments. at easily rival those and 2007, re ean, both
mundane
to For two h ht, but wh
o needs in Hot Lixbly humble a st glance he of local ba spectively, earn local
crowned At the eccentric wilours, contestants i
incred ents. At a f i r a Wor a l d nds that re
la n ta l m ou ranging fr struments? m o hold ly on real
champion
sh
’s best air
gu
nt the st
age om the chieve e the type t on stage he’s n’s However, wh
il
spirit of ips in Washingto itarist and conti in a quest to be k
seem li tar title, but t foil to Bjö eems
r A-game is on e maintaining a fan ba
e
hair style ro ck ‘n’ roll, fu n D .C . Wh n u e
ll of spli at results is a te to the national
on
Air Gui cker. A perfe s, Hot Lixx
c s it in throug way to become air gu se and keeping on your
h dedication itar Hall of
malfunct s, ridiculous nam ts, sta firecra pher ramblin ughtful of much
g the on par with , like Björn Fame materi air guitar
ions and es, stage jumps, moonwalkin ment to the o o circles is ththe greatest of rock my Türoque, or simply vi al, others make
drunkenn d
ess. Defin ives, burning chesg, outrageous philos used than th t still very as a
“It’s kind itely dru m
more a henomenon, b f air guitar
u performance, e case of Bettie B. Good ths. A story well-known circumstances
nkenness. t hair, costume which includ e. During he in
involved. of all of the thri whole
p
h e a r t o agnet” Kapronica, ed a metal r 2008 Brookl air guitar
too-ROCK”) An d lo u der music, ll of th e Olympic e l i e v e s in t by Zac “Mr. M der ac
chose to cont cidentally severed th folding chair, Bettie yn regional
b l
, ”
biggest p the undisputed fa explains Björn Tü but with a lot mor
s, ophize
d ected e ime e
rather than inue her performance fourth toe on her left al name Taryn
, re
philos he much resp tar and two-t anyhow, goin
alias of
hilosopher
s. In it si
ce of U.S.
Ai r Gu itar
roque (pro e
nounced “B beer Mu n r o , t i r g u i Bettie, whil medical help. The inci fo
g for air gu ot. Bettie
fo
three yea rmer New York so nce U.S. Air Guita and perhaps one yorn an of a ndon.
e the toe wa de
s inevitably nt resulted in a regi itar glory
rs, coming ftw r of its statesm hamp from Lo a sacrifice onal win fo
2005 nati
on in secon are producer Dan began in 2003, Bjö worl d c
inal a
rt The Fro hims to the gods r
the 2006 d als. His struggle d place a total of Crane, competed rn, the n e o f the f ow,” Air Guitar elf even had his own of rock.
ocumentary to fiv 11 ti o n injury to sp
into his Air Guitar overcome air legen e times, including mes in lly is ight f spraining hi eak of,
book To A “It rea t least for r ppelganger o eer
Guitarist. ir N a ti on , d C- D id at the a o n during an in s wrist in a fall
If nothin Is Human: One Man and his further exdy was chronicle f o r m s , , t h e d
studio
e n g i tense practi
g else, he d in ot Lixx ht session. ce
is a mad
’s Quest to
B p lo it s wer says H a, California an’t be boug
As an act genius am ecome the World’s G e compiled Ala m e d i r . “I t c
ck e r o n
rock ‘n’ ro
ivity, air ong madm
en. re a te st Air illmeie t a sti ou. (continued on
g
ll, but it uitar has raged on Craig B You can’t pu away from yit. page 62)
when the w l d . i t e
World Air as first practiced since the earlie or so ne can tak e
k i l l t o h a v
o f
1996. The Guitar Ch on an Ol st days of o s d
U. it. No e any ll that kin
a
roll had S. organization, su mpionships began ympic-style scale n’t tak A
no represe rp in Oulu, Fi It does orn with it.
ntation a rised that the bi e b
World org t the wor rthplace nland in Y o u ’r
ld ’s , rmed in 20 of rock ‘n’ stuff.” gin
anizers be fo can be win a ties,
based on
th gan the co 03.
c o n t e stants hey have to rch hit 25 ci d Boston, in st, but
guitar. Cu e belief that you ntest as a way to b e f o r e t i t l e , t h e s e a l l a s a n us que nd
competitor
stomary a
t ca n’t hold p ro mote world But
i n g a world on. In 2009, t Angeles, Da ’s a ridiculo ir mullets a
s join on the end of every a gun if you’re h peace plott l competit i r k , L o s r i s t . I t o n t h e
olding an , a ew Yo guita g to d .
stage for
a mass air
competitio
n, all air region ng Atlanta, N y’s best air ants willin to the stage Photo courtesy
i r p
guitar to includ of the count ager partici droom and on ir guit
ar
search e plenty of out of the b
e e Hero, a ds. In the Natalie B. David
u it a r n
r
there a he air guita
r ame G er two rou The
video g ov choice.
bring
t
e n t s for the aking place ong of their ey must
am , t s th e
r tourn and furious seconds of a round, where testants hav
simila t 0 n
Unlike ions are fas en perform 6 e compulsory me cases, co eviously
it m h so r
compet und air axe move on to t ng that, in which have p llo, as well
s t r o t o r s e d s o g e s , M o r e ran
f i r
f i v e compe t i
p r e -d
i n
eterm ced. Three ju gods like T
d o m as vete
to p r m t o a p r a c t i u i t a r
rf o ne l g
all pe eard, let alo included rea
h
never ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE 61
, fell l, t
tairwell e my fal g a wris
p e cl im bing a s he ground brok ow I was wearin
o k e a r o s a y s . “T th e s h et, but
“I Br r,” he ay of the plan
the floo til the d n stage.” balls on ore and pushing
right to nice, but up un l before I got o l l g o o f
s
which wa my wrist could h
ea ck ‘n’ ro ing back for m it is
icated ro m any ways
brace so o f th e most ded ir guitarists co ing because in m essary skill,
are some keeps a o appeal t the nec ets
aithful or Finland that ar mythos is s citement withou on fee, which g
h e a ir guitar f to D .C . a ir g u it l a n d ex is tr a ti a r e n o
T ip e reg e
a free tr ge. For many, th l the glory, thril ing up a small ’ roll alias, ther
it’s not th e ed s y : a l fo r p o n y r o ck ‘n
t to nta us
the spor ate rock star fa uipment. Except truly outrageo
m eq ming a
the ulti ns or expensive in s to r d
o
connecti in free beer, an n.
d br a mullette
ck io th a t th ey’re all lived with
a it d
paid b
ents for
compet arists is ave a mullet, an walks of
requirem air guit h Photo court
n ce p ti on about Björn. “I used to ey come from all e two-time esy
th e co m mon misco r mother,” says g u it a rists, th it ec t w ho is th
d th a t’ s Nick Roble
s
“I th in k it h th ei g o n e. A ir is h a r ch m m o n , a n
ho live w are long to a Brit ing in co and
losers w , but those days at Mets stadium all have one th uty that is rock
m o th er v en d o r in k w e th e b ea
my og th
m a hot d on. But I celebrate
life, fro mpion from Lond me on stage and
worl d ch a n o s h a inly of a
b il it y to have a r is ts are certa come to play
the a air guit ous. Those that f shame.”
roll.” the best ci o
to a n yone but shy or self-cons e and total lack
u l y o p en o r th e m p l et
rsuit tr ’s not f ion, “a co fake
It’s a pu aracter type. It the world champ ility to
r ta in ch w o r d s o f ti o n , o r the ab e love and
ce
y, in the inebria mplet
need onl It takes f all a co nds for,”
im a r il y cohones.
k it ta k es most o rock ‘n’ roll sta surrender
, pr in at g to
, I think rink. I th ything th e willin
“It takes on if you don’t d ‘n’ roll and ever amp, you must b allow dignity.”
ia ti r o ck a r ch d o n ’t
inebr n to guit d we n edge
edicatio be an air itars an e them a
absurd d s Björn. “But to e don’t allow gu m en t will giv rn and Hot
a te r . W tr u jö
elabor
nity at th
e doo f the ins cluding both B bands and
your dig wledge o in various te to air genius
.
th in k that kno ny contestants, r m s , in
g u it a r ists who think twice. Ma uitar” in air te always transla
l g l doesn’t
Even rea mpetition should ar, or “fake air guitar, I
can
ical skil ying air who lost while
in air co e played the guitors. However, mus f o r p l a
Lixx, hav musical endeav n of me t Lixx,
makes fu with it,” kids Ho ho wasn’t a real
legitima
te
t if s omebody e h ea d ea n , w
v a n ta
a
ge is th nk them over th lding William
Oc www.campusapts.com/abbeywest
a d co ie
y real and
l guitar in 2007 to back
flip-w
“The onl ow too
et my rea e t you kn y.
always g his 2006 U.S. titl a n ta g e in tha in guitar realit
g d v
defendin e a d is a
r can b le was very much the crowd’s fa et
b a s ed ce s ,
t. ir guita
guitaris in g
o w to p lay non-aal air guitar sty y about getting ou need to do to
o w in g h o r ig in ’s r ea l l a te v er y
kn se it h
“I think lains Björn, who foundation, but at them, doing w
p t es out
much,” ex to have a decen y o u r ey ar e u s ed to .”
uitarists
,
e
“You hav our tongue, bulg t what guitarists
ing o f modern g surprise
er
cymbals
The Mackie u.420d
In addition to vintage bright sound- 4-channel mixer with
24bit/96kHz FireWire in-
SWR golight™ 4x10 Aguilar DB 751 ing AA and vintage dark HH versions,
SABIAN has introduced modern bright cludes two Mackie mic channels
4 ohm Bass Amp Bass Head AAX and modern dark HHX designs of its
popular Raw Bell Dry Ride cymbal. Renowned
featuring 3-band EQ with mid-sweep,
a built-in DI box and 30mm faders. Two high headroom stereo
These high-quality, light- The DB 751 Bass Head for award-winning innovations, SABIAN cymbals are played line inputs channels feature Mackie Designed RIAA phono pre-
weight enclosures are the re- features a combination of raw by such greats as Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili amps, 3-band “full kill” EQ, a 30mm crossfader and a full head-
sult of a painstaking process power and rich tone that con- Peppers. phone cue system.
in which every component tinues the legacy of the DB
of SWR’s Goliath Series 750. The DB 751 is a ground-
was evaluated and, when- breaking hybrid with a discrete Mosfet output section
ever possible, a new light- and a 3-tube preamp. While maintaining the legendary sound of the Spector “Shorty” Krank
weight high-performance
component was selected for
DB 750, the DB 751 features improvements in the EQ section and
a better control layout, which gives you the headroom to bring your Spector Basses is now offering for
“Krankenstein Jr.”
use in the golight enclosures. tone to life no matter what kind of music you are playing. the first time a short scale USA bolt Mini Stack
This model features a 4x10 on neck bass. Known familiarly as
enclosure, 800 watts handling, custom SWR neodymium speakers, “Shorty” the bass utilizes a 30 3/8” Krank Amps is known for making se-
horn tweeter with attenuator, Speakon® and 1/4” speaker jacks, re- scale length 22 fret neck. The orig- riously kick ass guitar amps and was the
movable casters, side handles, vibration-free shock-mounted grill, inal versions of this bass were built last stop in tone for the late Dimebag
front slot port. 56 lbs. (25.4 kg) impedance: 4 ohms. for Garry Tallent who has been us- Darrell of Pantera fame. Their collabora-
Commemorating
ing them for years on tour with tion resulted in the uber popular Kran-
its 40th Anniversary
B.C. Rich as America’s premier
Bruce Springsteen and the E Street kenstein amp that has since weaved the
Band. The neck features a pau fer- sonic tapestries of such rock luminaries
MOOG MP-201 Anniversary builder of unique-
ro fretboard on a 3 ply graphite re- as Metallica, The Offspring, and even
ly shaped, lifestyle-driven
The MP-201 Multi-Pedal is the perfect
Guitar: The electric guitars, B.C. Rich®
inforced hard maple neck. The the hilarious Metalocalypse Cartoon
Network show. And now Krank is intro-
body is the original Spector
Control Hub for live performers, Eagle proudly announces a new se-
ries of handcrafted instruments
ergonomically carved shape ducing the mini versions of Dime’s tone
studios, DJ’s and more. It’s built with a light weight mahog- in the Krankenstein Jr., available in both
to mark the milestone. The spe-
like a tank and with CV, MIDI any core. It is available with 20W and 50W and featuring 1x12 cabs
cial guitars are a tribute to mod-
and USB connectivity, it can a wide range of figured ma- to complete the cool rock amp “stack”
els originally developed by com-
control anything from a lap- ple and exotic wood tops and look. And the mini version of it’s big
pany founder Bernardo (“Bernie”)
top running the latest software stain colors. All hardware is brother certainly doesn’t skimp on the
Rico and are limited to a production
to a monster analog modular synth. black plated and the elec- tone, reproducing Dime’s wsignature
run of 40 guitars per model.
Stay in control while your hands are busy tronics consist of EMG sound at more home-friendly volumes
The four Anniversary Guitars rep-
playing, spinning or mixing! pickups and an Aguilar or being able to easily power club gigs.
resent the first original designs offered
OBP-3 active tone circuit.
by B.C. Rich: the Seagull, Eagle, Mock-
ingbird and Bich. Each will receive a 40th
Anniversary commemorative logo on
Boss FRV-1 Fender ‘63 Reverb Pedal the back of the headstock, a spe-
cial serial number and certificate of
BOSS and Fender® USA have collaborated
to create the FRV-1, a stunning recreation
authenticity.
All Anniversary instruments uti-
Swart
of the legendary ’63 Fender® Reverb.
The FRV-1 puts that timeless tube-
lize Neck-through-Body Koa wood
construction, a feature rarely seen be-
Hohner Blues Amplifiers
driven reverb sound under your fore B.C. Rich came on the scene back in Bender
foot in a tough, reliable com- ‘69. This method maximizes sustain and
pact pedal. The original ‘63 helps maintain the long-term structur- Hohner, Inc. announc-
Fender® Spring Reverb is al stability of the instrument. Bodies are es the addition of the Blues
the sound that launched crafted of solid Koa with Maple accent Bender P.A.C. to its line of
the surf-music phenome- stripes (“stringers”) on two models and professional harmonicas.
non, and is a staple of rocka- utilize DiMarzio® Dual Sound pickups. Designed primarily to make In a short time, Swart Amplifier Co. has garnered some of the most
playing and note bending stellar raves in the industry from the ones who matter most: musi-
billy, country, and blues. Lat- Additional design details include the clas- cians. Featuring USA built, 100% hand-wired, all-tube circuits, with
er, it became commonplace sic B.C. Rich Diamond fingerboard inlays (Snow- easy for entry level players,
components selected to maximize harmonic richness and superior
in grunge and other modern flake design on the Seagull), Grover® Super Rotomatic™ the Blues Bender P.A.C. al- sonics, the Swart brigade will satisfy any connoisseur of Great Tone.
genres. Now the same legend- tuners and vintage Cal Rad knobs. lows everybody access to Choose from 5w of pure Class A, Single-Ended 6V6 combo portabil-
ary sound can be had in an affordable, the bluesy notes needed to ity to the 30w SST-30 altar to Tonal Glory.
rugged compact pedal. make any riff complete.
G-Force
(12/22-01/19) (01/20-02/18) Lavere, Al Green, Elvis, Cory Branan, Isaac Hayes,
It’s not that you’re a bad musi- A band member quits, forms another Big Ass Truck, Three 6 Mafia, North Mississippi Allstars,
cian, dear Capricorn; you’re just band and takes with him/her songs Justin Timberlake, Booker T and the MGs.
playing the wrong instrument. Try you have written. It’s up to you to usEless triviA There’s 7.5 miles of trolley track in (July 24) (Hoyt Yeatman) In this 3-D animated comedy adventure, animals are trained by
alternating to a completely different fight for the songs back or create downtown and midtown Memphis. the government as spies and are given the latest equipment to assist them in their mis-
musical interest. new ones inspired by the fiasco. drive from athens 456 miles sions. The ‘G-Force’ consists of guinea pigs by the voices of Sam Rockwell, Tracy Morgan,
Penelope Cruz, a literal fly-on-the-wall and a mole by the voice of Nicolas Cage.
Something Extra $5 Cover, a web and television
PISCES ARIES series featuring real Memphis musicians and fictional- Prediction: The talking animated animals are overdone but the plot is new. The kids will
(02/19-03/20) (03/21-04/19) ized stories, aired on mtv.com and MTV during the love this creative 3-D film making pets and insects the deciders of the world’s fate.
Someone in your band is bad mouth- Drinking before shows is starting to month of May. The series was the brainchild of “Hustle
ing you to every ear that will listen. be a problem. Pace yourself or you & Flow” writer and director Craig Brewer.
Orphan
When you confront the member,
they will deny everything. Be cau-
may make a total ass of yourself
when you fall off stage in the middle your new favorite band
tious about keeping this person of a performance. the buzz in memphis : star and micey
around. This indie folk/pop outfit picked up steam in the past year after (July 24) (Jaume Collet-Serra) A sweet little girl named Esther is adopted by
founder/vocalist/guitar player Josh Cosby met Ardent Studios en- a troubled couple, John and Kate, played by Sarsgaard and Vera Farmiga.
TAURUS GEMINI gineer and musician Nick Redmond. Redmond joined the band as
(05/21-06/21) After Kate’s miscarriage and the couple’s terrible luck with their marriage,
(04/20-05/20) lead guitar player, and soon Star and Micey were recording at world- they adopt in order to be somewhat normal. The innocent sweet attitude
Your band is gaining momentum. Your significant other is significantly renowned Ardent Studios, becoming the second band on the newly of the little girl quickly vanishes leaving Kate concerned and eager to alert
Continue playing as many shows jealous of the attention you have reactivated Ardent Music label (which launched power-pop pioneers her friends and family before something terrible occurs.
as you can even if there’s no pay been receiving from the opposite sex Big Star).
after shows. Time to think about With Geoff Smith on bass, Doug Walker on organ and keys, and a Prediction: Oddly resembling the plot of The Omen, this film promises some
involved. Hard work does and will
revolving cast of local drummers, Star and Micey wrapped up their nightmarish scenes that will make your stomach drop.
pay off. how to break up with him/her…
first studio album (to be released later this fall). Included in the al-
Funny People
bum are special guest appearances by some of Memphis’ most rec-
CANCER LEO ognizable names — Big Star drummer Jody Stephens, North Mis-
(06/22-07/22) (07/23-08/22) sissippi Allstars axman Luther Dickinson, and Dave Cousar, guitar
Singing is not your forte and no one You are invited to open for another virtuoso and one of Memphis’ best kept secrets.
Star and Micey continues to be a fixture of the live music scene in (July 31) (JUDD APATOW) George (Adam Sandler) is a successful comedian who
else has the heart to tell you. You band this month but without any has less than a year to live. He meets Ira (Seth Rogen) after a stand-up set and
Memphis, with future gigs planned regionally.
might want to consider taking vocal compensation. Take the opportunity hires him as his semi-personal assistant and friend. The two form a friendship
lessons for a few months before to expose your music to new fans. venue profile on the charts where George teaches Ira how to be a better comedian and Ira helps George
trying to start your own band.
the hi tone top 10 songs played come to grips with death. However, when George finds out that his disease has
The Boat that rocked I’mma be 70-years-old, talkin’ crazy. Been married five times. Funny
is funny till you die.”
He ain’t lyin’. Just as sure as you’re holding this magazine right now,
(August 28) (RICHARD CURTIS) Set in the 1960s, The Boat that Rocked somebody across this great land is bustin’ a gut, watching Epps’ old Def
tells the story of ”The Count” (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Quentin (Bill Comedy Jams footage or a scene from one of his crazy pictures like Next
Neighy) who are in charge of an illegal radio station that broadcasts from Friday, All About The Benjamins or last May’s Next Day Air. Hell, Mike wasn’t
the middle of the North Sea. Along with a group of rogue DJs, the crew even in the surprise summer hit The Hangover long, but his time in front of
fights for their right to play the music that defined their generation and the camera was memorable. It’s almost as if Epps, like Jimmy Fallon or Amy
stray from the quintessential jazz music that reigned supreme in Britain. Poehler, makes you laugh the moment he opens his mouth.
Almost. For when Mike Epps is 38, married and a proud papa these days- starts
Prediction: For movie buffs, the name Philip Seymour Hoffman carries a to explain how his approach to comedy has changed over the years, he’s all business.
lot of clout and if writer/director Richard Curtis goes along the same lines “I know exactly what I want out of it now,” says the comedian, who still books stand-up
as his previous Brit comedy, “Love Actually”, then audiences should be in
dates when he can. “At first, it was like, ‘What do I want?’ Now I want to make my fans
for a fun and hilarious romp into the British pop movement.
happy and I want to walk away successful. I want people to be able to say, ‘I liked the way
he set that up. I liked how he broke it down.’ Details are important to me now. I’m more into
Carriers what I’m doing as opposed to just going out there freestylin.’ I like to know what I’m doing and how
to attack.”
With that sort of focus, fans would have enjoyed watching Mike portray his idol, Richard Pryor, on
(September 4) (ALEX & DAVID PASTOR) Chris Pine the big screen. For years a deal was reportedly close to becoming official. Now Epps insists quarrels
(Star Trek) and Piper Perabo (Coyote Ugly) star as amongst the Pryor estate may permanently hold up the project.
survivors of a deadly viral pandemic that begins “Richard Pryor taught me how to protect my craft and to appreciate it,” tells Epps, who will costar
in Western America. Along with two other survi- with Ice Cube in the long-delayed comedy Janky Promoters later this year. “That’s one of the downfalls
vors, the group flee from the virus only to find out that he had of being a great artist, you know what I’m sayin’? He was a complete genius. There’s a
that they may be more of a threat to one another. heavy price to pay for being that. I learned how to appreciate and protect my craft and protect my
blessing and not take it for granted and not let it destroy me. That’s the everyday fight when you
Prediction: Though the premise sounds like every oth- have genius qualities or God blesses you with a gift. The fight is just to keep your sanity.»
er zombie/infection movie ever made, audiences seem “I make people laugh all the time. I just be wantin’ to laugh sometimes. I want somebody to bust
to never get enough of the genre. Not to mention, Chris
me up. It’s a heavy price to pay. You give up so much for the position. I just try to be as normal as
Pine’s new found fame with the popularity of Star Trek.
possible. I try to do normal things. I don’t have too many people or servants just doing stuff for me.
If a PG-13 rating is announced, Carriers should be a
Fuck all of that. If I can’t ride down the street by myself, I don’t want it. When it start gettin’ like
sure fire hit.
that, I quit ‘cuz I ain’t gonna be able to enjoy nuthin’.” B
Epps from the
“Honeymooners,”
68 ATHENS BLUR MAGAZINE courtesy Paramount Pictures.
upcoming dvD releases
27
Release dates are subject to change. Check
artists or store websites as these dates ap-
july proach.
11
The 10th Victim
Comrades
Devil in the Flesh
Becoming Charley Chase aug
Torso
17 Again
Alien Trespass
I Love You, Man
London to Brighton
Almost Heaven
28
Dark Rising
Minstral’s Daughter
july Soundstage: Chris Isaak’s
Greatest Hits
Starman
Battlestar Galactica Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Dollhouse [Season 1] [25th Anniversary Collector’s Edition]
Green Lantern: First Flight
An American Affair
Dragonball Evolution
18
Fast and Furious
Miss March
Ancient Aliens
Angel of Death aug
Life on Mars: Series 1 Sons of Anarchy (Season 1)
The Mafia Hannah Montana: The Movie
Streets of Blood Go
Repulsion Gossip Girl:
Complete Second Season
The Last House on the Left
Dexter: The Complete 3rd Season
aug 4
Alien Uprising
Delgo
aug 25
Mutant Chronicles
Adventureland
Labor Pains
Sunshine Cleaning
Race to Witch Mountain
Samantha Who?: The Complete
The Mysteries of Pittsburgh
2nd season
Obsessed
House MD: Season 5
Flight of the Conchords: The
Complete Second Season
The Soloist
Punch Cup Parfaits 1 4-serving size pkg. Jell-O, your favorite flavor
1 8 oz. can fruit cocktail
3 lemons 2 thick slices of moist pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 can sweetened condensed
milk
½ pint whipping cream Directions:
Prepare the Jell-O as directed. Meanwhile, in a medium glass casse-
role dish, combine the fruit cocktail and pound cake cubes. Stir very
gently, making sure the cake doesn’t get broken into crumbs. Pour
Directions: the Jell-O into the bowl. Stir gently to incorporate all ingredients.
Juice all three lemons to yield 1/3 to 1/2 cup juice. Mix juice Refrigerate until the mixture is set. Serve with dollops of whipped
with sweetened condensed milk. Pour very cold whipping cream cream--or if you’re really decadent--lashings of heavy cream!
into mixing bowl and beat until soft peaks form. Add powdered
sugar and mix until medium peaks form.
Alternately layer whipped cream and lemon mixture in punch
or parfait cups. Refrigerate two hours. If you have a slightly larg-
er budget, this pairs beautifully with berries, pound cake, gra-
ham cracker crumbs or broken bits of cookies. Just add the lay-
er of your choice.
1 2 3
5
5
4 4
6
7 8
6
7 9
10
9 10 11
10 11
see your
12 13 pics
14 15 here!
submit
to
editorial@ 12
athensblur.com or
let us know when
you’re playing! you
never know when
we’ll show up...
Trances Arc @ Little Kings (Nicole Black) A.Armada @40 Watt (Daniel Peiken) Dead Confederate @ Mainstage (Daniel Peiken) The Warm Fuzzies @ Hull Heartless Bastards @ 40 Watt (Alyssa De Hayes) Jessica Lea Mayfield @ 40 Watt (AlyssaDe Hayes) The Circulatory System @ Farm 255 (Alyssa De Hayes)
Street Stage (Daniel Peiken) Hope ForAgoldensummer @ 40 Watt (Alyssa De Hayes) Play us a song, piano man (Nicole Black) Athfest at The Arch (Nicole The Incredible Sandwich @ Tasty World (Laurie Moot) The Corduroy Road @ 40 Watt (Laurie Moot) The Corduroy Road @ 40 Watt (Laurie Moot) The
Black) Ginger Envelope @ Mainstage (Daniel Peiken) Liz Durrett @ Nuci’s Space (Steve Hendriksen) . 10-year-old rocking out @ Kids Stage (Daniel Peiken) Present @ Farm 255 (Laurie Moot) TJ Mimbs @ Sideways (Alyssa De Hayes) The Whigs @ Tasty World (Alyssa De Hayes) . Dodd Ferrelle @ 40 Watt (Laurie
Don Chambers @ Main Stage (Daniel Peiken) Sanni Baumgartner @ Main Stage (Daniel Peiken) Randall Bramblett Band @ Mainstage (Daniel Peiken) Cool- Moot) The Present @ Farm 255 (Laurie Moot) Dodd Ferrelle @ 40 Watt (Laurie Moot)
ing off at Hull Street Stage (Nicole Black) . Modern Skirts @ Nuci’s Space (Steve Hendriksen)
The 8th Annual
ch
Bruce Burnds
& Frie
Honor d
Jo h n Ja r r a r
Concert 2009
Thursday, September 24
6:00PM - 10:00PM (Gates open at 5:30pm)
The Lawn at Brenau
John was born and reared in Gainesville, Georgia, and
moved to Nashville in 1977 to pursue a career as a
country music songwriter. Within one year, he began to
experience sight failure resulting from diabetes, and by
1979, was totally blind. When country music superstar
Don Williams recorded John's song, "Nobody But You,"
taking it to the top of the charts, doors began to open.
Over the ensuing years, John's songs were recorded by the
group Alabama, George Strait, Diamond Rio, Tracy
Lawrence, and others, until he had scored eleven number
one hits.