Monday, April 13, 2009
Modification to This Week's Playlist
Track number four on my playlist was originally "86 Me" by THe BAcksliders. Alas, they have removed all songs from their MySpace except for "Have You Ever Been Down?" which is the opening track on their new CD, Thank You. BAcksliders, I'm glad that you posted new music on your site and all, but next time, give me a heads up before you delete a song that I've added to my playlist, k?
Ultraviolet '09
As you can see, the lineup for this year's UltraViolet showcase has been announced, and as usual, the lineup is first rate. Here's some background info for those not in the know: Violet Dixon, daughter to Rebecca Robinson Dixon (Lovie) and _ Dixon (El Gato), was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis in November of 2006. The first UltraViolet show was held the following year. The purpose remains the same: to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in hopes of eventually finding a cure for the disease.In addition to having a stellar lineup of music, there will be a silent auction for art, poetry, and other items. As far as I know, donations are still being accepted. If you are interested in donating art, poetry, and the like, contact me and I will get you in touch with the right people. Oh, and yours truly is donating to the silent auction. I will have more on that front some other time.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
MySpace Playlist: 4/12/09
I'm shining a spotlight on this weekend's shows, with one particular show getting the largest serving of spotlight.
- "Wire to the Walls", RTB2
I have become outright obsessed with this song as of late, listening to it repeatedly. And their latest track, "When Hammer Hits Stone", is pretty friggin' awesome too. Thanks to Hunter Hauk for sharing that song on the Nightlife blog. If you are in Denton this Saturday, and you are at any other show than RTB2's show at Rubber Gloves (along with Record Hop and Timeline Post), then you are a freak. And I don't mean the good kind of freak. - "Down that Dusty Road", Nicholas Altobelli
Damn, Mr. Hauk has been getting all the breaks lately. He's breaking new stuff by RTB2, Kristy Kruger, St. Vincent, even Deathray Davies! Oh, and this track too. Since Mr. Altobelli sent me an advanced copy of his Dog Years EP, that helps make me a little less jealous. Come on, Hunter, don't you want to let me have a few chances to break new music? Anyways, you can catch Mr. Altobelli this Saturday at the Hydrant Cafe in Denton. - "Pictures Collected", Salim Nourallah
I'm not sure how much I'm at liberty to discuss the Salim Nourallah show occuring this Saturday night. Here's what I will say: it will truly be an intimate performance with one of Dallas' finest singer-songwriter treasures. I'm sure he'll be playing this gem off his latest effort, Constellation. - "86 Me", THe BAcksliders
After years of raving about this band, it appears they're about to get a major break of sorts. THe BAcksliders will be hosting their upcoming CD Release Party for Thank You at House of Blues on May 16th. And no, I'm not talking about the Pontiac Garage. I'm talking about the big main room. In the meantime, you can catch them at the relatively smaller Sons of Hermann Hall this Saturday. The show benefits the non-profit charity SoupMobile. - "Target for Tonight", Johnny Lloyd Rollins
Most of the good shows are happening on Saturday, but the Johnny Lloyd Rollins show is the one bright spot for Friday night in Dallas. You can see him and Ellen Cherry at the Mosaic location of Opening Bell Coffee. - "Five Minutes", Binary Sunrise
- "Come Closer", Shiny Around the Edges
Of course, the big deal show of the weekend is Good Records' 9 Year Anniversary Showcase. I'm not even going to bother listing all the cool bands playing. For that, just go to the Good Records website. These are just two of the many great bands playing the show. - "The Sparrow Spooked the Crow", Dove Hunter
- "Shar Shaped Octagons", The Crash That Took Me
These are two more bands playing the Good Records show, but you can also catch both in Fort Worth the night before. They will be opening for Starlight Mints at Longhorn Saloon, along with Burning Hotels, who will not be at the Good Records Show. Starlight Mints, however, will be at the Good Records show. - "On & On", Erykah Badu
And yes, she will be playing with The Cannaboids at the Good Records show. Damn, I can't wait for this show.
Friday, April 10, 2009
A Smoke-Free Weekend Update
Now that I've gotten the smoking ban story out of the way, let me help you find a show that you can't smoke at.
FRIDAY:
Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights/The Orbans (House of Blues Pontiac Garage)
This band has been touring like crazy lately. This summer won't be much better, as they'll be doing shows with Lynyrd Skynyrd and Kid Rock. Yeah, I'm still stratching my head about that one too. Either way, it's good exposure at least. Tonight, they'll be playing with The Orbans, who were good as Lifters, and word has it they're even tighter as The Orbans. And yes, JT&NL still put on a great live show. I don't see that ever changing.
Nicholas Altobelli (Buon Giorno)
If Mr. Altobelli is playing a show, you can just about guarantee it'll wind up on the weekend list of shows. He's just that good. I've never made it out to Buon Giorno, but he raves about the place. It's out in Grapevine so I'm sure it's a bit of a drive for most people, but Nicholas' music is worth the gas mileage.
Ella Minnow/A Modern Sidewalk/Dead Beat Poetry/On After Dark/You and Me (O'Riley's)
O'Riley's is better known for booking metal band, hair metal cover bands, metal cover bands, and other types of music that I don't like. So imagine my surprise when I saw that Ella Minnow, a band whose music I like, is headlining a show there. Perhaps this could be the beginning of a positive trend. Heaven knows that North Dallas desperately needs a good music venue (other than Dunn Brothers Coffee in Addison).
SATURDAY:
The Nervebreakers/Spector 45/Sparrowbox (Club Dada)
I don't know who is responsible for the wikipedia article on The Nervebreakers, but take a quick break from reading my blog and click here to find out about the history of this classic punk band from Dallas. But here's my biggest question: will Nervebreakers lead singer Barry Kooda jump on stage with Spector 45 to sing "My Girlfriend's in Iraq", a rewriting of their song "My Girlfriend is a Rock"? The only way to find out the answer is to go to Dada. If you miss this show, well, who knows when or if Nervebreakers will ever do a show again.
The Drams/Homespun Remedies (Barley House)
Between the Slobberbone reunion and Keith and Chad playing in King Bucks, there just have not been near as many Drams shows as there used to be. Catch them this Saturday with Homespun Remedies, a band I'm surprised hasn't made more of a name for itself. Perhaps this opening slot will help them get the exposure they need.
Wow... is that all that's happening this weekend? Surely I must be forgetting something. Let me know if I have.
FRIDAY:
Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights/The Orbans (House of Blues Pontiac Garage)
This band has been touring like crazy lately. This summer won't be much better, as they'll be doing shows with Lynyrd Skynyrd and Kid Rock. Yeah, I'm still stratching my head about that one too. Either way, it's good exposure at least. Tonight, they'll be playing with The Orbans, who were good as Lifters, and word has it they're even tighter as The Orbans. And yes, JT&NL still put on a great live show. I don't see that ever changing.
Nicholas Altobelli (Buon Giorno)
If Mr. Altobelli is playing a show, you can just about guarantee it'll wind up on the weekend list of shows. He's just that good. I've never made it out to Buon Giorno, but he raves about the place. It's out in Grapevine so I'm sure it's a bit of a drive for most people, but Nicholas' music is worth the gas mileage.
Ella Minnow/A Modern Sidewalk/Dead Beat Poetry/On After Dark/You and Me (O'Riley's)
O'Riley's is better known for booking metal band, hair metal cover bands, metal cover bands, and other types of music that I don't like. So imagine my surprise when I saw that Ella Minnow, a band whose music I like, is headlining a show there. Perhaps this could be the beginning of a positive trend. Heaven knows that North Dallas desperately needs a good music venue (other than Dunn Brothers Coffee in Addison).
SATURDAY:
The Nervebreakers/Spector 45/Sparrowbox (Club Dada)
I don't know who is responsible for the wikipedia article on The Nervebreakers, but take a quick break from reading my blog and click here to find out about the history of this classic punk band from Dallas. But here's my biggest question: will Nervebreakers lead singer Barry Kooda jump on stage with Spector 45 to sing "My Girlfriend's in Iraq", a rewriting of their song "My Girlfriend is a Rock"? The only way to find out the answer is to go to Dada. If you miss this show, well, who knows when or if Nervebreakers will ever do a show again.
The Drams/Homespun Remedies (Barley House)
Between the Slobberbone reunion and Keith and Chad playing in King Bucks, there just have not been near as many Drams shows as there used to be. Catch them this Saturday with Homespun Remedies, a band I'm surprised hasn't made more of a name for itself. Perhaps this opening slot will help them get the exposure they need.
Wow... is that all that's happening this weekend? Surely I must be forgetting something. Let me know if I have.
Blowing Smoke
Tonight, like every other Friday night, music fans will be heading to their favorite clubs, drinking beer, and checking out their favorite bands. But unlike most every other Friday night, one major ingredient will be missing: the cigarettes. Last night was the end of the smoking era for Dallas clubs. Now smokers will be relegated to smoking outside of the venues. I'm not sure how this will work; will smokers be allowed to smoke directly outside the club? I thought most businesses had a 15 feet rule, where you could not smoke 15 feet within the entrance to a business. I suspect that will not be the case here. Granada Theater already allows smoking in an outdoor area right next to the ticket sales.
Before I give my opinion out, let me get this out of the way: I am a non-smoker. On a personal note, I will be glad to not inhale other's smoke, and I will also be glad not to come home smelling like smoke. My feelings on the ban have always been mixed. A large number of those who go to bars to hear music are smokers. I am a firm believer that an individual has the right to do with his or her body as he or she sees fit. Unfortunately, the second hand smoke affects those around the smoker, many of whom are non-smokers. I also worried that this would have a serious negative impact on many music venues, and times are already tough enough for many clubs. Will people quit going to clubs if there is no smoking allowed? For some, the answer will be yes. For the bigger picture, however, let us look down south to Austin for our answer. Their smoking ban has been in place for years, and their music scene has not only survived, but thrived. The smoking ban may in fact bring individuals into the clubs who would otherwise not go because of the cigarette smoke. I hope this scenario will play out in Dallas.
That is my take on the issue. I wanted to get a variety of opinions from people I know within the local music scene. To my surprise, it was almost unanimously in favor of the ban. Only one individual outright opposed the ban, and a few others had minor complaints. Here is a small sampling of the comments:
"On the one hand, I don't agree with the ban, because I believe the club owners should be allowed the freedom to dictate their own smoking policies. But personally, I am glad I can go see a show now and not go home smelling like cigarette butts." - Brett Michael Strawn (Cocky Americans)
"Bars were the last bastion for smokers. Where does it stop. Will I no longer be able to smoke in my car? My house?" - Brian Nesbitt (producer, January Sound Studios
"I hadn't heard about that, but it's genius...maybe I'll start playing shows at bars again" - Cory Helms (Professional Juice, ex-Chemistry Set)
"I'm good either way. When I was a smoker, I didn't mind playing at the Granada and stepping out to have a cig and it was nice being in a room that wasn't a big cloud of smoke all the time. At the same time though, I can appreciate that bars are for drinkin and smokin! Woo! Party! The two go hand in hand." - Josh Hoover (Johnny Lloyd Rollins, Sunward)
"As a non-smoker, I say yay. As a photographer, boo. Some cool photos will not happen without the smoke, but my lungs are grateful. I might live an extra year or two without the second-hand smoke." - Kate Mackley (photographer)
"I could wear the same pair of jeans again the next day. I also wouldn't have to shower at 3 am. because my hair smells so bad." - Manya Repnikova (Blue Petal, Morning Elephant)
"I wish there could be a happy medium. Perhaps, some way to enforce rules about providing adequate ventilation in bars/clubs so that people could continue to smoke and the air could remain relatively clear. I have actually been to venues in Dallas where people are smoking and it’s not very noticeable at all. It’s too bad more venues can’t be like that." - Michelle Stockton (local music fan)
"I don't really mind a smoking ban in clubs. Yes, I am a smoker and this will be an inconvenience to me, but I also understand the need for non smokers to be able to go out and enjoy sitting in a bar without getting ciggerette smoke blown at them from every direction. I don't mind stepping outside to have a smoke if I have to. Besides, Austin has had a smoking ban for awhile now and it seems to be getting along just fine. After the initial shock I think Dallas smokers will be ok too." - Mikey (Obscenely Unseen)
"I'm coming from a very biased non-smoker point of view but, I like it. Sure, the bar owners and smokers are pissed. They should look to our friends in New York or California to see that it is not the kiss of death. As a musician with much travel experience in both of those states, it's easy to see even proper bars (w/out) live music continue to exist after several smoke free years. Austin has joined the game and I don't recall many bars closing because of a smoking ban. Even here in Dallas Granada and HOB seem to be doing OK while asking smokers to step outside." - Robert Anderson (Nervous Curtains)
Before I give my opinion out, let me get this out of the way: I am a non-smoker. On a personal note, I will be glad to not inhale other's smoke, and I will also be glad not to come home smelling like smoke. My feelings on the ban have always been mixed. A large number of those who go to bars to hear music are smokers. I am a firm believer that an individual has the right to do with his or her body as he or she sees fit. Unfortunately, the second hand smoke affects those around the smoker, many of whom are non-smokers. I also worried that this would have a serious negative impact on many music venues, and times are already tough enough for many clubs. Will people quit going to clubs if there is no smoking allowed? For some, the answer will be yes. For the bigger picture, however, let us look down south to Austin for our answer. Their smoking ban has been in place for years, and their music scene has not only survived, but thrived. The smoking ban may in fact bring individuals into the clubs who would otherwise not go because of the cigarette smoke. I hope this scenario will play out in Dallas.
That is my take on the issue. I wanted to get a variety of opinions from people I know within the local music scene. To my surprise, it was almost unanimously in favor of the ban. Only one individual outright opposed the ban, and a few others had minor complaints. Here is a small sampling of the comments:
"On the one hand, I don't agree with the ban, because I believe the club owners should be allowed the freedom to dictate their own smoking policies. But personally, I am glad I can go see a show now and not go home smelling like cigarette butts." - Brett Michael Strawn (Cocky Americans)
"Bars were the last bastion for smokers. Where does it stop. Will I no longer be able to smoke in my car? My house?" - Brian Nesbitt (producer, January Sound Studios
"I hadn't heard about that, but it's genius...maybe I'll start playing shows at bars again" - Cory Helms (Professional Juice, ex-Chemistry Set)
"I'm good either way. When I was a smoker, I didn't mind playing at the Granada and stepping out to have a cig and it was nice being in a room that wasn't a big cloud of smoke all the time. At the same time though, I can appreciate that bars are for drinkin and smokin! Woo! Party! The two go hand in hand." - Josh Hoover (Johnny Lloyd Rollins, Sunward)
"As a non-smoker, I say yay. As a photographer, boo. Some cool photos will not happen without the smoke, but my lungs are grateful. I might live an extra year or two without the second-hand smoke." - Kate Mackley (photographer)
"I could wear the same pair of jeans again the next day. I also wouldn't have to shower at 3 am. because my hair smells so bad." - Manya Repnikova (Blue Petal, Morning Elephant)
"I wish there could be a happy medium. Perhaps, some way to enforce rules about providing adequate ventilation in bars/clubs so that people could continue to smoke and the air could remain relatively clear. I have actually been to venues in Dallas where people are smoking and it’s not very noticeable at all. It’s too bad more venues can’t be like that." - Michelle Stockton (local music fan)
"I don't really mind a smoking ban in clubs. Yes, I am a smoker and this will be an inconvenience to me, but I also understand the need for non smokers to be able to go out and enjoy sitting in a bar without getting ciggerette smoke blown at them from every direction. I don't mind stepping outside to have a smoke if I have to. Besides, Austin has had a smoking ban for awhile now and it seems to be getting along just fine. After the initial shock I think Dallas smokers will be ok too." - Mikey (Obscenely Unseen)
"I'm coming from a very biased non-smoker point of view but, I like it. Sure, the bar owners and smokers are pissed. They should look to our friends in New York or California to see that it is not the kiss of death. As a musician with much travel experience in both of those states, it's easy to see even proper bars (w/out) live music continue to exist after several smoke free years. Austin has joined the game and I don't recall many bars closing because of a smoking ban. Even here in Dallas Granada and HOB seem to be doing OK while asking smokers to step outside." - Robert Anderson (Nervous Curtains)
M2S2 RSVP
I've got a busy day ahead of me, including the usual weekend update as well as the smoking ban story that I'm working on. By the way, I thank all of you who shared your opinions with me.
But for now, I wanted to talk little about M2S2. Actually, I'm going to let the official press release do most of the talking, but let me make a comments on the festival.
As for the rest, I will let the memo say everything else.
(I don't have the tech no-how to do cool things like put the memo in a box, so just visualize the memo below in a box.)
DALLAS, Texas (April 9, 2009) -- Begun in 2008 as an annual gathering of DFW/Denton music scene participants, supporters and fans, the second Mokah Music Summit and Showcase (M2S2) takes place on Saturday, April 25 at Life in Deep Ellum (LIFE) on the corner of Malcolm X and Taylor Streets just outside of downtown Dallas. The event is hosted by LIFE and the Carter Albrecht Music Foundation. Full event information can be found at the event web site, www.m2s2dallas.com.
The free event starts at Noon with a Zounds Sounds CD release concert (Noon-4pm); followed by a music-themed art/photo exhibit called “Ear Candy” (4-7pm); and culminating with band showcases in the evening (7-Midnight) featuring headliner, Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights. Sankofa, located two blocks away on Commerce Street, will host the official M2S2 after-party featuring a set by Hoyotoho from Midnight-2am (M2S2 wristband wearers skip the $10 cover).
The Double Wide Bar will be providing a cash bar service all day for beer and wine sales and Mokah Coffee Bar will be providing a full complement of non-alcoholic beverages sales.
People wanting to attend the event are simply asked to RSVP and get on the entry list by sending an email to m2s2@lifeindeepellum.com. Emails will only be used for updates on M2S2 and those not on the RSVP list will be required to fill out a card with their email before gaining admission on the day of the show. Should capacity become an issue, those on the advance RSVP list will be admitted first.
Performing on the Live at Mokah main stage starting at 8:00 will be RTB2, The Orbans, The O’s, The Crash That Took Me and Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights. Performing in the Mokah Coffee Bar lounge stage starting at 7:00 will be Something in the Wheel, Nicholas Altobelli, Clint Niosi, Johnny Beauford, Jayson Wortham (Dove Hunter), Emil Rapstine (The Angelus) and the Blackland River Devils.
-more-
Zounds Sounds kicks things off with a CD release concert featuring original songs from their student bands from Noon-4pm. Students will be performing songs related to Dallas in some way as part of the afternoon session.
“Ear Candy” follows from 4-7pm in the Mokah Gallery featuring local music-themed art and photography on sale from talent such as: Hal Samples, Jason Janik, Kate Mackley and Charles Siler. Jeff Liles, aka “Cottonmouth Texas,” will be DJing during the reception. “Ear Candy” will remain on display thru Thursday, May 7 when the Mokah Gallery will host a closing event from 7-9pm.
Other components of M2S2 include: a video discussion among a variety of music industry professionals which will be posted online this Summer. The idea is to get a snapshot of viewpoints on the DFW/Denton music scene by those most heavily involved. Sample clips of some advance interviews will be shown at M2S2. Also, details on the Carter Albrecht Award will be announced with plans for the first recipients to be named at the 2010 M2S2 event. And finally, a $5 raffle for some attractive prizes will be conducted to help raise funds toward the expenses LIFE has incurred for hosting and producing the M2S2 event.
LIFE and the Deep Ellum Foundation have funded this year’s event out of pocket and several supporting sponsors have provided various other resources to make sure the building of this important community event continues in a positive direction. These include: Double Wide, Mokah Coffee Bar, Zounds Sounds, Eyegate Media, YesGo Productions, Hackenbrew, Quick, Sankofa, Crystal Clear Sound, Deep Ellum Association, Wasteland Creative and Ellum Consulting. Event directors, Mike Biggs and Chelsea Callahan, will be seeking cash sponsors for the 2010 event starting this Summer.
Should the event receive any net proceeds after expenses incurred to continue developing the community event without a cash sponsor this year, those funds will be split between LIFE and CAMF to go toward each non-profit’s specific programs benefitting the arts and music scene. More information about these programs can be found at the event’s web site.
Life in Deep Ellum is a non-profit cultural center built for the artistic, social, economic and spiritual benefit of Deep Ellum and its residents, supporters and visitors. It is composed of four primary communities: music, art, commerce and spiritual.
The Carter Albrecht Music Foundation is dedicated to the growth and development of music in DFW/Denton by offering assistance in education, developing skills and improving the quality of life of its musicians.
But for now, I wanted to talk little about M2S2. Actually, I'm going to let the official press release do most of the talking, but let me make a comments on the festival.
- Booking Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights is no small feat, so hats off to the organizers for getting him to play.
- I have been listening to a lot of RTB2 this week even though I've only seen part of one show. I am pumped to see a real live performance of theirs, and I have no doubt that they will rock my world.
- If you are smart, you will do as I have done and RSVPed. This insures your ability to get in and see the show free of charge.
- Since M2S2 does not have a sponsor this year, use the money you saved on cover charge to buy some beverages (and yes, Double-Wide will provide some adult beverages) and buy some raffle tickets that will help the organizers at least break even after holding this festival.
As for the rest, I will let the memo say everything else.
(I don't have the tech no-how to do cool things like put the memo in a box, so just visualize the memo below in a box.)
DALLAS, Texas (April 9, 2009) -- Begun in 2008 as an annual gathering of DFW/Denton music scene participants, supporters and fans, the second Mokah Music Summit and Showcase (M2S2) takes place on Saturday, April 25 at Life in Deep Ellum (LIFE) on the corner of Malcolm X and Taylor Streets just outside of downtown Dallas. The event is hosted by LIFE and the Carter Albrecht Music Foundation. Full event information can be found at the event web site, www.m2s2dallas.com.
The free event starts at Noon with a Zounds Sounds CD release concert (Noon-4pm); followed by a music-themed art/photo exhibit called “Ear Candy” (4-7pm); and culminating with band showcases in the evening (7-Midnight) featuring headliner, Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights. Sankofa, located two blocks away on Commerce Street, will host the official M2S2 after-party featuring a set by Hoyotoho from Midnight-2am (M2S2 wristband wearers skip the $10 cover).
The Double Wide Bar will be providing a cash bar service all day for beer and wine sales and Mokah Coffee Bar will be providing a full complement of non-alcoholic beverages sales.
People wanting to attend the event are simply asked to RSVP and get on the entry list by sending an email to m2s2@lifeindeepellum.com. Emails will only be used for updates on M2S2 and those not on the RSVP list will be required to fill out a card with their email before gaining admission on the day of the show. Should capacity become an issue, those on the advance RSVP list will be admitted first.
Performing on the Live at Mokah main stage starting at 8:00 will be RTB2, The Orbans, The O’s, The Crash That Took Me and Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights. Performing in the Mokah Coffee Bar lounge stage starting at 7:00 will be Something in the Wheel, Nicholas Altobelli, Clint Niosi, Johnny Beauford, Jayson Wortham (Dove Hunter), Emil Rapstine (The Angelus) and the Blackland River Devils.
-more-
Zounds Sounds kicks things off with a CD release concert featuring original songs from their student bands from Noon-4pm. Students will be performing songs related to Dallas in some way as part of the afternoon session.
“Ear Candy” follows from 4-7pm in the Mokah Gallery featuring local music-themed art and photography on sale from talent such as: Hal Samples, Jason Janik, Kate Mackley and Charles Siler. Jeff Liles, aka “Cottonmouth Texas,” will be DJing during the reception. “Ear Candy” will remain on display thru Thursday, May 7 when the Mokah Gallery will host a closing event from 7-9pm.
Other components of M2S2 include: a video discussion among a variety of music industry professionals which will be posted online this Summer. The idea is to get a snapshot of viewpoints on the DFW/Denton music scene by those most heavily involved. Sample clips of some advance interviews will be shown at M2S2. Also, details on the Carter Albrecht Award will be announced with plans for the first recipients to be named at the 2010 M2S2 event. And finally, a $5 raffle for some attractive prizes will be conducted to help raise funds toward the expenses LIFE has incurred for hosting and producing the M2S2 event.
LIFE and the Deep Ellum Foundation have funded this year’s event out of pocket and several supporting sponsors have provided various other resources to make sure the building of this important community event continues in a positive direction. These include: Double Wide, Mokah Coffee Bar, Zounds Sounds, Eyegate Media, YesGo Productions, Hackenbrew, Quick, Sankofa, Crystal Clear Sound, Deep Ellum Association, Wasteland Creative and Ellum Consulting. Event directors, Mike Biggs and Chelsea Callahan, will be seeking cash sponsors for the 2010 event starting this Summer.
Should the event receive any net proceeds after expenses incurred to continue developing the community event without a cash sponsor this year, those funds will be split between LIFE and CAMF to go toward each non-profit’s specific programs benefitting the arts and music scene. More information about these programs can be found at the event’s web site.
Life in Deep Ellum is a non-profit cultural center built for the artistic, social, economic and spiritual benefit of Deep Ellum and its residents, supporters and visitors. It is composed of four primary communities: music, art, commerce and spiritual.
The Carter Albrecht Music Foundation is dedicated to the growth and development of music in DFW/Denton by offering assistance in education, developing skills and improving the quality of life of its musicians.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Ask and Ye Shall Receive
It was just yesterday that I commented on the upcoming CD from Little Black Dress. In case you're not familiar with the band, they are a shoegaze band fronted by Toby Pipes (Deep Blue Something, The Hundred Inevitables). The album will be the first to be released on Idol Records sub-label Exploding Plastic. Although I have only had the privilege of seeing the band once, they still managed to land a spot on last year's top 10 performances. The band pulled off the very tricky feat of having the gorgeous, lush, beautiful sound of shoegaze without ever becoming monotonous or boring in their live performance. Anyways, while I may still be waiting for the actual CD to come out, Erv from Idol Records sent me a JPEG of the upcoming album cover, which I felt compelled to share with my readers. Once I get my heads on the actual CD, I'll give you a review.Something else I've been asking for is a video from Iris Leu. I attended her CD release party at Mokah, and her performance was first rate. The evening was so beautiful that I wanted to share a little piece of it with my readers. Alas, it took awhile for the person recording the show to actually post the video. As the old cliche goes, however, good things come to those who wait. The quality of the video is far superior than the majority of concert clips I see online. Aside from videos taken at Granada Theater, this might be the highest quality video I've seen. The song she's performing is called "The Red Bird". It's a song that she dedicated to Ryann Rathbone about her relationship to Carter Albrecht, ended much too soon by his untimely death. Ms. Leu is one of the best hidden musical gems in this city, though if I have my way, that will not be the case for much longer.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Idol Hands...
I've got several pieces of news about Idol Records to share with my readers. The first one is probably not news to those who read the other local music blogs, but Boys Named Sue has become the most recent addition to the Idol family. Appparently Erv was so impressed with The O's that he figured he should sign another project featuring John Pedigo. Now all that the record label needs to do is encourage Mr. Pedigo to put out a second Rose County Fair album. Then the John Pedigo-Idol Records trinity shall be complete.
It may be awhile until the next BNS disc comes out, but Idol Records artist Here Holy Spain will be celebrating the release of Manic tonight at Good Records. The show starts at 7, and there will be food and adult beverages for your partaking. Oh, and check out the cool album cover, designed by James O'Barr, the man responsible for creating The Crow. Full-size posters of the album cover will also be available at Good Records. Catch the band now, because they'll hitting the road with Toadies starting the very next night.
Now if Idol sub-label Exploding Plastic Records would finally release the new Little Black Dress album. I'm waiting...
It may be awhile until the next BNS disc comes out, but Idol Records artist Here Holy Spain will be celebrating the release of Manic tonight at Good Records. The show starts at 7, and there will be food and adult beverages for your partaking. Oh, and check out the cool album cover, designed by James O'Barr, the man responsible for creating The Crow. Full-size posters of the album cover will also be available at Good Records. Catch the band now, because they'll hitting the road with Toadies starting the very next night.
Now if Idol sub-label Exploding Plastic Records would finally release the new Little Black Dress album. I'm waiting...
Sunday, April 5, 2009
MySpace Playlist: 4/5/09
- "Lithium", The Polyphonic Spree
It was fifteen years ago today that Kurt Cobain died. Was it suicide or Courtney Love? Who knows? Many thought of Cobain as the John Lennon of my generation. I wouldn't go that far, but they were definitely one of the most influential bands of the past 20 years. So as a tribute, I'm kicking off this week's playlist with the Spree's cover of "Lithium". Who ever thought a Nirvana song could sound so happy? - "Private Ballroom", Red Monroe
I've often wondered what happened to Red Monroe. The last time I saw them live was at the 2007 Wall of Sound Festival, and I know they haven't played a show in almost a year. The band finally posted three new tracks that can be downloaded for free on their website. This particular track continues their trademark sound, a halfway point between New York City cool (a la The Strokes) and new wave (vocals very reminiscent of Fred Schneider). - "My Girlfriend Is a Rock", The Nervebreakers
These Dallas punk pioneers reunited for SXSW, and are finally playing this Saturday at Club Dada, with Spector 45 opening. This is your basic sloppy three chord punk song, and it's about a guy who has obviously taken the pet rock fad of the 70's a bit too far. Rocket science, this isn't. Is it fun? Oh yeah! - "Wire to the Walls", RTB2
The White Stripes have received countless kudos for their original blend of bluesy raw rock and roll energy, and for making such an incredible sound for a mere duo. On occasion, Jack & Meg live up to this hype. I have yet to hear a White Stripes song that is as creative, energetic, and fresh as an RTB2 song. On this particular track, RTB2 pack in more rock and roll punch in less than 100 seconds than some bands can cram into an entire album. "Wire to the Walls" is easily one of my favorite tracks at the moment. - "She's from the Other Side", Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights
Mr. Tyler and the rest of the gang have spent way too much time away from this city. That will be changing this month. They will be playing the first of several local shows this Friday at the House of Blues Pontiac Garage. - "Went Walking", Bosque Brown
The good news: Bosque Brown finally gathered the attention of Pitchfork and her latest effort, Baby, has been reviewed. The bad news: it received a mere rating of 4.6. In regards to lead vocalist Mara Lee Miller, reviewer Matthew Perpetua compares her to "a talented character actress who has somehow been cast in a lead role against type, and the very qualities that would make her charming and memorable in a smaller role become unflattering when exposed to too much spotlight." With all due respect, it is her voice that carries these tunes and is what makes Bosque Brown memorable. - "I Break", Frenchy & The Ferals
This band's sound is somewhere between quirky and unique. It's taken me several listens to even establish my opinion on the band. However, with each listen, lead vocalist Carolyn Kurtz's vocals and the band's sound continue grow on me. On a completely separate note, I wonder how many people have given the band's guitarist/synth player Adam Lambert a hard time for sharing the same name as the American Idol contestant. - "Hollowville", Iris Leu
Have I mentioned lately how great Iris Leu's new CD, Hushaboo, is? Well now you know. - "Hell Below/Stars Above", Toadies
As of late, I have become addicted to the "Pick Your 5" feature on Facebook. One of the top 5's I did was the top 5 songs I like to play loud. This track was my number one, and I got kudos for Mr. Good Show himself, Tom Urquhart, for my choice. He thinks, much like I do, that Hell Below/Stars Above is a severely underappreciated album. For my money, it is a far more ambitious and intriguing CD than Rubberneck. - "My Beautiful Life", Sparrows
I got a little flack for not including Sparrows in last week's playlist, so I figured I'd wrap up my playlist with this track. It reminds me of Nick Drake in style, but without the overly melancholy feel in much of his music. This is one of the most beautiful songs to ever emerge from our city.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Some Saturday Night Shows
Alright, alright... so I'm late yet again on recommending shows for the weekend. Fortunately, there were only two shows worth mentioning yesterday. One was Jack with One Eye at City Tavern, the other being Klickitat at White Rock Coffee. For those who haven't seen Klickitat, it's simply Michaela Kuenster on piano/keyboard, and the best description I have is that she's a quirky mix of Tori Amos and Aimee Mann. If you're not familiar with her music, please click on the link above. Her sound is unique and intriguing, and I believe that with a little extra exposure, she could be a significant musical name around town.
But alas, I digress. I'm supposed to let you know the shows you can still see tonight. Tonight's options are a lot stronger. Here we go:
The Demigs/Slider Pines/The Alice (Hailey's)
It's been well over a year since the last time I saw The Demigs. From what I'm gathering, their sound has mellowed out somewhat, leaning less heavily on their earlier Pixies influence and creating a more melodic sound. Whether the sound is more pre-grunge or straight ahead indie pop, The Demigs will have no problem maintaining the attention of the crowd at Hailey's. Slider Pines does not seem like an obvious fit for The Demigs, as their music leans much more towards a high octane version of The Kinks. Both bands are great live, however, so whatever sonic differences there are between the bands, there is a common thread of quality in their music.
Somebody's Darling/The O's/Ben Tapia (City Tavern)
Ah, if I had a dollar for every time I raved about Somebody's Darling or The O's, I just might be able to blog as a full time job. I know that City Tavern usually doesn't charge a cover. This seems like an unusually strong pairing to be able to see free of charge. Heck, I'd gladly pay $8 cover charge for either act alone. To get both together for free? Suh-weet!
The Southern Sea/Cocky Americans/Elkhart (Double-Wide)
Every now and then, I see a lineup that feels backwards. When Elkhart released their CD, The Moon, my expectations were somewhat modest. I liked Travis Hopper's solo material, but I was unprepared for the gorgeous, slow alt-country style ballads that came one right after the other on the CD. The band has helped to fill the void left by Pleasant Grove's absence on the scene. If I was the one choosing the lineup, I would put them as the headliners. As for Cocky Americans, I have yet to see a live show of theirs, but everything I've heard so far is solid, straight ahead good rock and roll.
The Slack (Lee Harvey's)
I need help here. How many ways are there to say that Chris Holt is the best damn musician in Dallas? I don't want to sound like a broken record here, but what else is there to say? So let me say this: Lee Harvey's has no cover charge.
Spector 45 (Deep Ellum Arts Festival)
Perhaps it's just me, but it seems like this Saturday's lineup is a tad disappointing overall. Still, let me point out a few highlights. Darrin Kobitech plays a solo gig at 4:00 on the Singer Songwriter stage, immediately followed by his full band, Blackland River Devils. For those into a more mellow mix of electronica and pop, Shock of Pleasure may prove to be your cup of tea. The festival planners saved the best for last, and Spector 45 is sure to rev up the crowd and kick some rock and roll butt.
Having been a little hard on the Saturday lineup for the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, let me say that the Sunday lineup is the best day for music. Highlights include The Felons, Inner City-All Stars, Escort Service, and the best live band in Dallas, THe BAcksliders. Click here for the festival's website. From there, you can see the schedule.
But alas, I digress. I'm supposed to let you know the shows you can still see tonight. Tonight's options are a lot stronger. Here we go:
The Demigs/Slider Pines/The Alice (Hailey's)
It's been well over a year since the last time I saw The Demigs. From what I'm gathering, their sound has mellowed out somewhat, leaning less heavily on their earlier Pixies influence and creating a more melodic sound. Whether the sound is more pre-grunge or straight ahead indie pop, The Demigs will have no problem maintaining the attention of the crowd at Hailey's. Slider Pines does not seem like an obvious fit for The Demigs, as their music leans much more towards a high octane version of The Kinks. Both bands are great live, however, so whatever sonic differences there are between the bands, there is a common thread of quality in their music.
Somebody's Darling/The O's/Ben Tapia (City Tavern)
Ah, if I had a dollar for every time I raved about Somebody's Darling or The O's, I just might be able to blog as a full time job. I know that City Tavern usually doesn't charge a cover. This seems like an unusually strong pairing to be able to see free of charge. Heck, I'd gladly pay $8 cover charge for either act alone. To get both together for free? Suh-weet!
The Southern Sea/Cocky Americans/Elkhart (Double-Wide)
Every now and then, I see a lineup that feels backwards. When Elkhart released their CD, The Moon, my expectations were somewhat modest. I liked Travis Hopper's solo material, but I was unprepared for the gorgeous, slow alt-country style ballads that came one right after the other on the CD. The band has helped to fill the void left by Pleasant Grove's absence on the scene. If I was the one choosing the lineup, I would put them as the headliners. As for Cocky Americans, I have yet to see a live show of theirs, but everything I've heard so far is solid, straight ahead good rock and roll.
The Slack (Lee Harvey's)
I need help here. How many ways are there to say that Chris Holt is the best damn musician in Dallas? I don't want to sound like a broken record here, but what else is there to say? So let me say this: Lee Harvey's has no cover charge.
Spector 45 (Deep Ellum Arts Festival)
Perhaps it's just me, but it seems like this Saturday's lineup is a tad disappointing overall. Still, let me point out a few highlights. Darrin Kobitech plays a solo gig at 4:00 on the Singer Songwriter stage, immediately followed by his full band, Blackland River Devils. For those into a more mellow mix of electronica and pop, Shock of Pleasure may prove to be your cup of tea. The festival planners saved the best for last, and Spector 45 is sure to rev up the crowd and kick some rock and roll butt.
Having been a little hard on the Saturday lineup for the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, let me say that the Sunday lineup is the best day for music. Highlights include The Felons, Inner City-All Stars, Escort Service, and the best live band in Dallas, THe BAcksliders. Click here for the festival's website. From there, you can see the schedule.
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