Bryan's List of Local Musical Happenings 12/24/12

Monday 12/24

Celebrate Christmas Eve safely!

Tuesday  12/25

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! MERRY CHRISTMAS! (or whatever floats your boat...!)

Wednesday 12/26

Reeferseed Express at Hull Avenue Tap 6:00 ($1.00 beers too!)
Bob Pace Band at Zimm's 7:00
David Zollo at the el Bait Shop 8:00
Ben Wantland at the Greenwood 8:00
The Snacks at the Underground 9:00
Live Music Open Jam NIght at the Standard 9:00

Thursday 12/27/12

Chad Elliott and Bonita Crowe at Coda Lounge (Renaissance Savery Hotel) 6:00
Open Jam featuring Scott Long Band at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Soul Searchers at the Greenwood 9:00
Randy BUrk at the Underground 9:00

Featured Show:Johnny Reeferseed and the High Rollers at the Hull Ave Tap
Saturday night at 9:00

Friday 12/28/12

Work Release Party with Bob Pace Band at the Gas Lamp 4:30
Dennis Kain at the Titual Cafe 7:00
James Biehn at Fire Creek, WDM 7:00
Thankful Dirt at the Greenwood 9:00
TOQUE ROCKOLA (Leradee and the Positives, Boteco, Dustin Smith and the Sunday Silos at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Andy Strong at the Standard 9:00

Saturday 12/29/12

James Biehn at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00
Josh Davis and Will Locker at the New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern, Grimes
White Elephant, Viva Montesa, Mumfords at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Jeff Banks at the Greenwood 9:00
Johnny Reeferseed and the High Rollers at the Hull Ave Tap 9:00
Andy Strong at the Standard 9:00

Sunday 12/30/12

Thankful Dirt at the el Bait Shop 8:00


 

Bryan's List of Local Musical Happenings 12/17/12

Monday 12/17/12

Findlay Family Fun Fest at Greenwood 7:00

Tuesday 12/18/12

Andy Fleming at el Bait Shop 8:00
Acousti-Beast at Greenwood 8:00

Wednesday 12/19/12

Reeferseed Express at the Hull 6:00 ($1 beers too!)
Bob Pace Band at Zimms 7:00
Infuzion at el Bait Shop 8:00
Bill Matykowski at Greenwood 8:00
Live Music Open Jam Night at the Standard 9:00
The Snacks at the Underground 9:00

Thursday 12/20/12

Open Jam featuring Scott Long at Gas Lamp 9:00
Soul Searchers at Greenwood 9:00
Matt Woods at Longest Yard, WDM 9:00
Laradee and the Positives at the Underground 9:00

Lil Ed and the Imperials at last year's Winter Blues Fest.
He and his band will be playing at the Elks Lodge in Grinnell on Friday.

Friday 12/21/12

Friday Work Release party w/ Bob Pace Band at Gas Lamo 4:30
Cody Carter and Bonnie Finken at New Morning Coffee House, Grimes 6:00
Thankful Dirt at Fire Creek WDM 7:00
Lil Ed and the Imperials w/ Matt Woods and the Thunderbolts at Grinnell Elks Lodge 8:00
Food Bank Benefit: Euforquestra, Mr. Baber's Neighbors, Bright Giant at Wooly's 8:00
Infuzion at Greenwood 9:00
The Snacks at the Underground 9:00
Circular Revolution at Sudsuckers 9:00
It's Complicated at the Standard 9:00
Aquamarine Dream Machine at Gas Lamp 9:00

Saturday 12/22/12

Rand Hubiak at the Ritual Cafe 7:00
Rob Lumbard, Bob Door and Nate Peoples at Chequers Lounge 8:00
Thankful Dirt at Peace Tree Brewing Company, Knoxville 8:00
Ben Wantland at New Morning Coffee House, Grimes 8:30
Justin Appel and Heath Alan at Greenwood 9:00
Bright Giant at Racoon River Brewery 9:00
Holiday Show with David Zollo and the Body Electric at Gas Lamp 9:00
4ENT, Social Schrade, Best of Fools at House of Bricks 9:30

Sunday 12/23/12

J.B. and the Soothsayers at el Bait Shop 8:00
Chachmas 2012 at Wooly's 8:00
David Haack at the Gas Lamp 8:00
 

Grant's 15 Least Disappointing Albums of 2012

15. Trioscapes “Separate Realities” Metalblade Records

A jazz-fusion album may seem like an odd choice, especially for me, to add to this list, and never mind the fact that Between the Buried and Me bassist Dan Briggs holds this trio together (rounded out by a drummer and a saxophone/flutist). But the sheer ferocity that these three attack the six songs on their debut full length is undeniable. If you’re down for some boogie dance jazz influenced rock, I implore you to purchase this album. Well worth the ticket price.

Neurosis: Honor Found in Decay

14. Neurosis “Honor Found in Decay” Neurot Records

The funny thing about Neurosis, is that while they stay true to the sound that they helped develop (the combination of sludge, post rock, industrial, and folk), is that it seems that the music ages with the band. Very few bands in their genre (if there are any) have been able to accomplish what these, now men, have. Let’s hope for more consistency and growth in the future.

Every Time I Die: Ex-Lives

13. Every Time I Die “Ex-Lives” Epitaph

Coming off of the molten magma that was “New Junk Aesthetic” (their previous release thru Epitaph), hopes were set high. But the band pulled a fast one on us and hired “Evil” Joe Baressi to handle the production and boards. While this album has its moments, and moments they are indeed (see the crushing ending to ‘Drag King’) there is a little something that leaves to be desired.

The Chariot: One Wing

12. The Chariot “One Wing” E1/Goodfight Entertainment

Christian “chaoscore” band The Chariot are a band you either love, or don’t get, and frankly that’s your fault. While this write prefers their previous release “Long Live,” on “One Wing” the band hones in on their southern groove, even employing a full horn section and samples galore. Although…if you watch their, might I add excellent, music video for David de la Hoz (from “Long Live”) you may notice something, that leads me to believe this album was recorded during the same sessions.

ISIS: Temporal

11. ISIS “Temporal” Ipecca

Another shocker, considering this is an odds and sods release and is probably only for the most die hard fans of the band. This two disc set features demos, outtakes, remixes as well as the two songs featured on their split ep with the Melvins. A nice and fun retrospective for a band that stopped to soon, or just in their prime, depending on who you ask.

Deftones: Koi No Yokan

10. Deftones “Koi No Yokan” Reprise

I’m a little hesitant to put this album on here. Don’t get me wrong, the riffs are solid, the atmospherics provided by sampler/dj Frank Delgado and Chino’s impeccable and widely improved vocal range certainly make up for the over ‘pop’ sound of this record. Overall the album follows seamlessly, something that hasn’t been heard since their magnum opus “White Pony.”

Periphery: Periphery ii: This Time it's Personal

9. Periphery “Periphery II: This Time it's Personal” Sumerian

I hit the Periphery band wagon late, but I don’t see the problem there. Where as their first disc firmly rooted them in the “djent” scene (fyi, djent is a sound, not a genre and I will fight anyone to the death if they disagree). With their second release, Periphery haven’t completely left behind their djent sound, but have employed far more progressive and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them on tour with Dream Theater some time soon. A real standout here is the massive improvement of vocalist Spencer Stotello, who seems to really have come into his own.

Lamb of God: Resolution

8. Lamb of God “Resolution” Epic

Love them or hate them. Decry them as false metal if you must, but the fact of the matter is the southern boys in LoG have continually churned out awe-inspiring riff after riff that will make you want to smash anything and everything in their path. Like Periphery’s vocalist, Randy Blythe seems to have summoned a demon beyond this world. His vocal performance is unmatched and is the true highlight of the album.

Thrice: Anthology

7. Thrice “Anthology”

A bitter-sweet double live release that marked the end of the Thrice as a touring band. This album/s was chosen to be included for two reasons; 1.) It encompasses their massive catalogue with out any of the filler, if you could call it that, and 2.) stands as a testament to their superb live performances. What is most enjoyable about the discs, are that when played at full volume, you can hear the subtle nuances of out of tune guitar chords and slight tempo changes that will not be found on their studio catalogue.

The Melvins: Freak Puke

6. The Melvins “Freak Puke”

This album kind of went under the radar. I’ll make this short, if you haven’t hear this recording…or any Melvins recording, you are doing your self a massive disservice.

The Acacia Strain: Death is the Only Mortal

5. The Acacia Strain “Death is the Only Mortal” Rise

For more information on why this album rocks so freaking hard, please see my review, but for the lazy (tldr) crowd I’ll sum it up with this. DitOM is the true soundtrack to the apocalypse.

Converge: All We Love We Leave Behind

4. Converge “All We Love We Leave Behind” Epitaph

Converge. Probably the most important band to combine thrash/metal and hardcore and develop it into their own unique sound. Their newest album is no different. If you didn’t love Converge before, this probably won’t change your mind, but the sheer brutality that this disc packs is enough to bludgeon anything in its path. Being the first record with out any kind of outside guests, this record sounds just as much like a live album as Converge could make. Kurt Ballou’s (guitar) excellent production and Jacob Bannons true non-emo heartfelt lyrics (he also contributes all the artwork) will strike a chord with almost anyone in the hardcore community. Experimentation abounds here, from the Ramones inspired opening drum beat to ‘Vicious Muse,’ to the dark chants of ‘Coral Blue’ show the most growth this band has had since “Jane Doe.”

Between the Buried and Me:
The Parallax II: Future Sequence

3. Between the Buried and Me “The Paralax II: Future Sequence” Metalblade

Made 2012 was the “year of the prog” and no one failed to mention that to me. For the fans who grew up listening to “The Silent Circus” or “Alaska” and completely lost faith in the band once their flexed their prog muscles on “Colors” you best stop reading. Where BtBaM does succeed here is the overall scope of the record. There are no real “singles” here and much like Tool’s “Lateralus” this record is best enjoyed by listening all the way through. Dynamics, tempo shifts, and beautiful melodic sections abound. Just about as you are getting comfortable, they completely shift gears and throw you back in the their neo-death-prog stomp. Nerds rejoice.

Meshuggah: Koloss

2. Meshuggah “Koloss” Nuclear Blast

I’m honestly still trying to wrap my head around this record. Where as 2008’s “Obzen” was a riff-fest/hook monster and in the wake of the djent movement, Meshuggah seem completely content to stray very little from the path they have been blazing and perfecting since the late 80’s. Unlike most bands on this list, the lyrics (mostly written by drummer Thomas Haake) are positive and promote inner strength and “surmounting obstacles.” Definitely worth listening to, one, twice, hell on repeat.

Pig Destroyer: Book Burner

1. Pig Destroyer “Book Burner” Relapse

My number one pick for this year should come as absolutely no surprise for people who know me. Serious, you need an album to go the gym, this is it. Need an album to silently curse your boss to, this is it. Need an album to slaughter defenseless animals while traversing the wilds of Skyrim, this is it. Scott Hull once again proves that he is grindcores premier guitarist and JR Hayes seemingly undecipherable lyrics make for one hell of a ride. The production is slick, yet dirty and at 19 tracks barely breaking the half hour mark you’ll be happy to find some reprieve from the onslaught. Go to youtube and search for their excellent video for “The Diplomat."

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Honorable mentions:

Whitechapel-Whitechapel (Metalblade)

Great riffs, fun vocal delivery, but just too short and some of the songs tend to bleed (no pun intended) together.

Soundgarden-King Animal (A&M)

There was a lot of speculation that this album would not hold a candle to their older material. Fortunately it does, and its certainly worth a listen.

Black Light Burns-The Moment You Realize You’re Going to Fall (Rocket Science)

After a long break between their debut and an unfortunate Limp Bizkit reunion, Wes Borland and co are back with album number two. While there are plenty of fun rifftastic songs to be found here, there is also an immense amount of filler.

Devin Townsend Band-Epicloud (Inside Out)

After the four album set he released between 2009 and 2011, this came out of the blue. It’s a good record, but probably only for fans.

T.R.A.M.-Lingua Franca (Sumerian)

Another jazz-fusion project featuring member of Animals As Leaders, ex-Mars Volta, and Suicidal Tendencies, it can be quite tedious to get through the entire record. Not to say its bad, its actually quite good and a fun listen, but only for a certain amount of time.

 

Bryan's List of Musical Happenings 12/10/12

Additions and corrections always appreciated. Thank you Bryan!

Monday 12/10/12

Christmas Potluck (no live music) at the Greenwood 5:00

Tuesday 12/11/12

Drama KIngs featuring Scott Davis at Capital Square Atrium 11:30 am
B. John Burns at the Greenwood 7:30
Ben Wantland at el Bait Shop 8:00

Wednseday 12/12/12

Festival Brass Quintet featuring Scott Davis at St. John's Lutheran Church at Noon
Reeferseed Express at Hull Avenue Tap 6:00 ($1 beers too!)
Ty Wistrand at Songwriter's Night at Racoon River Brewery 7:30
Matt Logan at Fire Creek, WDM 6:30
Bob Pace Band at Zimm's 7:00
Stu Ramsey at the Greenwood 8:00
Truth Be Told at el Bait Shop 8:00
Live Music Open Jam at the Dtandard 9:00
 
Thursday 12/13/12

Chad Elliott & Bonita Crowe at the Coda Lounge, Savory Hotel 6:00

Matt Woods at the Longest Yard, WDM 9:00

Open Jam: feat. Scott Long Band at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Soul Searchers at the Greenwood  9:00

David Ramirez at the Vaudeville Mews 10:00

 

Featured Show: Greg Brown and Bo Ramsey at Wooly's on Friday Night

 

Friday 12/14/12

 

Work Release Party w/Bob Pace Band at theGas Lamp 4:30
Chad Elliott & Bonita Crowe at Fire Creek, WDM 7:00

Greg Brown w/Bo Ramsey at Wooly's 8:00

Monday Mourners w/West of E. Street at The Garage, Indianola 8:00

John Moreland at the New Morning Coffee House & Wine Tavern, Grimes 8:30

Thankful Dirt at the Star Bar 9:00
Rick Burke at the Greenwood 9:00

North of Grand w/Chromafrost at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Geoff Safford Jr. at The Standard 9:00
Poppa Neptune w/ Nemo Orchestra at the Underground 9:00

Toaster at the House of Bricks 9:30

Saturday 12/15/12 

 

Spit In The Devil's Eye, The New Bodies, Slyde at House of Bricks 5:00 (All ages)

David Zollo & Chad Elliott at The Grapevine, Clive 7:00

Ryan Doughty at New Morning Coffee House & Wine Tavern, Grimes 8:30

The High Crest at the Greenwood 9:00

Keith Richard's B'Day Party! w/David Zollo, Johnny Reeferseed & High Rollers, Brother Trucker, Agents of Mischief at House of Bricks 9:00
Randy Burke & The Prisoners at the Raccoon River Brewery 9:00

Matt Woods & The Thunderbolts at the Longest Yard, WDM 9:30

Sunday 12/16/12

 

Fareed Haque & Mathgames at Byron's, Pomeroy 6:00

Miles Nielsen at The Grapevine, Clive 7:00 (CANCELLED)

Java Jews at el Bait Shop 8:00

 

Dethklok-The Palladium, Hollywood, CA 11/27/12

 
 
At the last minute my friend once again hooked me up with a ticket to see everybody's favorite animated Death Metal band, Dethklok. They just released the Dethalbum III which I have yet to hear and they went on a full US tour with some bands I really don't care about. But a free show is a free show!

I missed the first band and that's lame cause they were the only other band I kind of wanted to see. Don't let the name, their fans, and all the crappy tours they do fool you. The Black Dahlia Murder are a good Death Metal band. And yes they actually DO play legit Death Metal and just don't claim it like Deathcore bands. Well I missed 'em. Check em out.

Black Dahlia Murder

Speaking of crappy bands, All Shall Perish was next and sadly I did not miss them. They sucked balls. Crappy Hot Topic Metalcore at its finest and well...  they sucked balls. I was bored beyond relief and all they did was they play crappy tunes and show war footage like everyone's been doing for the past 10 years. I haven't really seen a band I hated this year but this it.

All Shall Perish

And that's not all, Machine Head was up next. They opened up for Dethklok again, and again I was disappointed and bored. I don't know what it is. The Blackening album (which I accidently stole from an ex, that I'm willing to trade or sell for $5) is meh ok, but they just bore me live. I went outside. Too loud and not in the good way. Haters gonna hate.

Machine Head

Finally the band everyone went to see was up. Yes the cartoon is music 100 times better than the last 2 bands and thats' a fact. If you watch the TV show you know that they have workers named "Klokateers" that wear all black and have executioner hoods on. Well they actually had real life Klokateers being sound guys, checking the guitars, mics,moving stuff around, etc, which I thought was the coolest fucking thing ever. There was even a fan dressed as Dr. Rockzo, The Rock N' Roll Clown (he does cocaine) and he was just up in the balcony taking pictures with everyone. Now in case you didn't read (if anyone even reads my stuff!) the last time I reviewed 'em well here's how the show works. Brandon Small (creator of the show) plays guitar and does the vocals, Gene Holgan(Fear Factory, Death, Testament, Dark Angel,etc) plays drums, and they get other dudes that play the rest. They are there live on stage playing in the dark while we see exclusive music videos of the cartoon band. The videos are usually graphic and funny. I wont ruin much for you but it does involve Star Wars rip-offs, Egyptian oral sex, and satanic strippers. Plus videos of the last two albums which include Vikings seeking revenge, Mermaid murders, etc.

Dethklok

There were many intermissions. If it was any other band it would be lame and people would be talking shit. But not for Dethklok. The band has a new video yo play for every five minute break they needed. These were absolutely great and they were some of the best part of the show. Some stuff showed their bass player, William Murderface having a bulimic problem. Another showed Dr.Rockzo making the audience sing a long to a silly song that ended up being a way to trick the crowd to give him money for his cocaine addiction. And as always the bands mascot, Facebones, was there to talk about not harassing women and how there shoulld be respect for people in the audience who are overweight.

After the bands long, and really good set, Brandon Small finally talked to the audience  He was still kind of covered by smoke so he talked in the voices of the characters (Nathan Explosion, Pickles The Drummer, and Skwisgaar Skwigelf) to the audience.  He bragged (or they all bragged) how they have the last of the Hostess snacks backstage and how they were glad to be in Hollywood just in time for Elmo's arrest. Small did not do this last time so I was beyond stoked when he did this. The band did a few more numbers and the last two without videos. The lights were on and you could actually see the band. WAY better than the last time I got these toons. Dethalbum III came out so you should all get (along with the first two if you haven't) . Also Season 4 of Metalocalypse is now on DVD and Blu-Ray so I need to get that too (along with 3). Dethklok is one band you got to see a least once in your lifetime. Cartoons do better Death Metal these days than most people do.

Bryan's List of Local Music Happenings 12/03/12

Monday 12/03/12

Findley Family Fun Fest at Greenwood 7:00

Tuesday 12/04/12

Charles Johnson at el Bait 8:00
The High Roller Express at Greenwood 9:00

Wednesday 12/05/12

Reeferseed Express at Hull Ave Tap 6:00 ($1 beers too!)
Brother Trucker at el Bait 8:00
Ben Wantland at Songwriter's Night at Raccoon River Brewery 7:00
Monday Mourners at Fire Creek, WDM at 6:30
Bob Pace Band at Zimm's 7:00
Tab Benoit Band followed by Ryne Doughty at Gas Lamp 7:30
The High Crest at Greenwood 9:00
Eternal Summers, Land of Blood and Sunshine, Love Songs for Lonely Monsters at Vaudeville Mews 7:30

Live Music Open Jam Night at the Standard 9:00



Featured Show: Matt Woods and the Thunderbolts at the Longest Yard 9:00

 Thursday 12/06/12

Open Jam featuring Scott Long Band at Gas lamp 9:00
Sould Searchers at Greenwood 9:00
Matt Woods and the Thunderbolts at the Longest Yard 9:00
Dumptruck Butterlips at Vaudeville Mews 9:30

Friday 12/07/12

Work Release Party with Bob Pace Band at Gas Lamp 4:30

Ira Grace and the Bible Belt Prophets at Fire Creek WDM 7:00
Heath Alan and Justin Appel at Greenwood 9:00
The Envy Corps, Quiet Corral, Great American Desert at Wooly's 9:00
Kelly Steward and the Restless Kind at Gas Lamp 9:00
Tony Bohencamp at New MOrning Coffee House and Wine Tavern, Grimes 8:30
Josh Sinclair with Josie Ochanpaugh at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00
Bonnie Finken at the Standard 9:00

Saturday 12/08/12

Thankful Dirt, John Waite, Milk and Eggs, Sam Knutson at Corning Opera House 7:00
A Fistful of Ska at Gas Lamp 9:00
The Brian Holtz Band at Greenwood 9:00
Chad Elliott and Bonita Crowe at Raccoon River Brewery 9:00

Rooster McCabe, Zeta June, Mighty Shady at Wooly's 8:00 at 1st
Kris Lager band at TBA at DG's Tap House, Ames 10:00
The Thunder Blues at 1st Avenue Speakeasy, Newton 8:00
Kevin Burt at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00

Sunday 12/09/12

Chad Elliott with Bonita Crowe at Byron's Pomeroy 5:00
Deuce, with New Medicine at Wooly's 6:30
Ellis Paul at Vaudeville Mews 6:30
Dick Prall at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00
Coco Montoya at House of Bricks 7:00
Rob Lumbard at el Bait 8:00
Ari Dubai at Gas Lamp 9:00
 

Bryan's List of Local Music Happenings 11/26/12

Additions and corrections welcome. Thanks Bryan!

Monday 11/26/12

Findley Family Fun Fest at the Greenwood 7:00

Tuesday 11/27/12

Josh Davis at the el Bait Shop 8:00
Dan Jones at the Greenwood 8:00
Reckless Ones w' Rumble Seat Riot and El Dorado at the Gas Lamp 9:00

Wednesday 11/28/12

Reeferseed Express at the Hull Avenue Tap 6:00 ($1 beers too!)
Jason Walsmith at Songwriter's Night at the Raccoon River Brewery 7:00
Chad Elliott at Fire Creek in WDM 6:30
Bob Pace Band at Zimm's 7:00
David Zollo at the el Bait Shop 8:00
Stu Ramsey at the Greenwood 8:00

Thursday 11/29/12

Rob Lumbard at the Standard 5:00
Patresa Hartman, Tom Edwards, Mary McAdams, Miguel Ramirez and Jon Rudisill at Songwriter's Night at the House of Bricks 8:00
Open Jam featuring Scott Long Band at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Soul Searchers at the Greenwood 9:00

Friday 11/30/12

Work Release Party w' Bob Pace Band at the Gas Lamp 4:30
Redemption Within, w' Kick, Black Star Alliance and Lost Star of Icarus at the House of Bricks 5:00 (All Ages)
Jim Seem at the Ritual Cafe 7:00
Heath Alan at the Fire Creek WDM 7:00
James Biehn and Seth Hedquist at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00 (RSVP Only)
Dakota Park at the New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern, Grimes 8:30
Bonnie Finken and the Collective w' Peace Love and Stuff and Rae and the Honeybees at the Gas Lamp 9:00
The High Crest at the Greenwood 9:00
Meganaut w' Handlebar and Hath No Fury at Bombay Bicycle Club 9:00
Dead Larry at the Underground 9:00
Joe and Vicki Price at Mother's Pub, Ames 9:00

Featured Show: King of the Tramps at the House of Bricks 8:00
(With the Young Funk)

Saturday 12/1/12

South Dallas County Crewcut Cowboys at the Gas Lamp 4:00
Joe and Vicki Price at Peace Tree Brewery, Knoxville 8:00
Moreland and Arbuckle at the Gas Lamp 8:00
King of the Tramps with the Young Funk at the House of Bricks 8:00
Holy White Hounds w' Diamonds For Eyes at Wooly's 8:00
Jeffery Scott Band at the New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern, Grimes 8:30
Can O' Worms at the Greenwood 9:00
The End (Beatles tribute band) at the Raccoon River Brewery 9:00
Fancy Pants at the Underground 9:00
Nada Silent Night at Hoyt Sherman Place 8:00

Sunday 12/2/12

Studebaker John at Byron's, Pomeroy 5:00
No One w' Another Lost Year and Screaming For Silence at the House of Bricks 5:00 (All Ages)
Bella Soul (Brandon and Tina Haase Findley w' Scot Sutherland) at the Grapevine, Clive 7:00 (RSVP Only)
Joe and Vicki Price at el Bait Shop 8:00

 

Punk in Africa: Samantha Introduces Keith Jones

It has been a while since I have had the pleasure of gracing all of my incredible readers with an article and now I believe it is time. First and foremost, I apologize; a mental vacation and a chance to dance among neon lights with Chilean men and friends of Dorothy was desperately needed-so I set the laptop aside and went out on a few adventures.  Rest assured, I have returned to write even more interesting tales on counter culture, music and travel-cheers, salute, kompei, nazdravi!



PUNK IN AFRICA: Director Keith Jones and producer Jefe Brown
at the International Film Festiva in Innsbruck

I began my writing crusade on the South African underground music scene and I will continue now with a conversation that could easily go on for hours and days over wine and what not in Letna Park or for now Skype.  Keith Jones is one of the brilliant minds behind the documentary Punk in Africa and he is also a very good friend of mine, as I was his intern nearly 3 years ago and needless to say just as Prague opened my mind to music art and counterculture; Keith Jones opened my mind to South Africa and all that it is and all that it was. I refuse to call this piece an “interview” because the term “interview” implies some type of formality. Keith and I have been formal only once in our speaking and that was the day we first met in Prague at an Art Nouveau café downtown where we smoked French cigarettes and drank tiny coffees from demitasse cups.

Deon Maas
(Photo by Rob Weedman)

Punk In Africa was envisioned by Keith Jones and Deon Maas after they finished their earlier documentary Durban Poison.  Keith and Deon took a road trip and started discussing the South African punk movement, and just after the conversation a piece on the Matsuli Music blog led them to discover the band National Wake, which had been formed in 1978 by guitarist Ivan Kadey and the Khoza brothers from Soweto.  The majority of the members of National Wake were at the time living illegally together in a group house despite the rule of apartheid and were often subjected to petty charges and regular harassment by local authorities.  It was the story of National Wake among many other stories that helped to mold and sculpt Punk in Africa as an essentially political story, but one told first and foremost through music. Music is at the root of the soul of African Culture, music shapes the understanding of African culture and society through its sounds and stories.

Punk In Africa has been an invaluable tool for connecting musicians from different generations. As Hog Hogg Hoggidy Hog hadn’t heard the music of National Wake or Wild Youth, Wild Youth may not have known that the Hogs existed. Through Punk in Africa, people became more connected across generations, meaning that more stories were shared, ideas understood and new friendships made.  This film helps musicians transcend and understand different generations as well as generation gaps in music.

This film also examines the situation under apartheid and what this meant to musicians and artists living under those absurd rules within Africa. Knowing the accounts of several individuals whom lived in South Africa shortly after the rule of apartheid ended I can only fathom what it was like to live with such rules while trying to create art in a society which laws refused to allow to homogenize.  Confronting apartheid is an issue that artists from around the world should take a lesson from. Art is a labour of love and courage, artists and musicians have to rebel against the norm and break the rules to create something truly inspiring.  Musicians and artists growing up under apartheid not only understood the consequences of making unique and powerful music, they also understood that this was about making something original.

Punk in Africa shows the world that drive, courage, determination and the desire to break down common rules for creativity’s sake can prove to be an exceptional combination, also when it comes down to gaining notoriety in the international film festival scene. Punk In Africa first gained press at South By Southwest 2011, and has since been at 30 different International Film Festivals including the recent New York Film Festival.  It was never about money or prestige for Jones or his co-conspirator Deon Maas, rather about telling a unique diverse and original story of the underground countercultural scenes that they not only witnessed but inhabited regularly. Jones and Maas were very careful not to fall into any cliché traps with Punk In Africa; the film is 100% for Africa by Africa-keeping this mantra makes the film even more international, you do not see studded jackets and Mohawks in Punk in Africa, you hear music and understand the struggle that African culture dealt with in the times of Apartheid.



National Wake (Photo by Robin Muir)

As Keith moves forward with a new project, he will be focusing on the alternative music and culture of the '80s generation in Prague.  As Punk in Africa broke molds and challenged thoughts, opened doors and defied common societal nomenclatures, I know we can expect nothing less with Keith’s new film. 

When it comes down to art and artistic endeavors Keith and I both agree that artists must do things independently by yourself without compromise: try to experiment and never walk away from an idea. Don Letts (one of Keith’s mentors) stated “A good idea attempted is better than a bad Idea perfected” People should live without regret.  Artists don’t need structures, money or institutions to do things in independent or unique ways, it is imperative that artists find ways to make something out of nothing.

Creating great art is bound in struggle, courage and a vision-I think of apartheid, I dream of North Korea and I think of every person who stood up for their beliefs.  I contemplate the mass genocides that have plagued our global society-we who have never felt that kind of oppression may never truly grasp what guerrilla art is all about. Paying homage to every artist around the world for their ability to stand up and condemn the man is essential for any true understanding of great revolutionary art.

DVD (Czech Republic) front cover, April 2012 release

**Jones says I need to summarize this article to end it and because he is a journalism instructor through NYU in Prague he is obligated and required to tell me this nevertheless as an artist it is my job to remind him to go “fuck himself and have a nice day” which is exactly what I did. I cannot think of a better way to end this article then on that note-sort of summarizes everything now doesn’t it?

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Pertinent Links:

Punk in Africa Official

Punk in Africa on Facebook

National Wake on Facebook
 

Three 5 Star Records: Des Moines Local Music

King of the Tramps: Good People
(2011 Old School Records)

Vocalist Todd Partridge tells me that King of the Tramps is working on a new CD (presumed to be titled Wicked Mountain) that will be released sometime after the first of the year. He says that it will be much bluesier and rootsy than their previous venture, Good People.

With all respect to Partridge's song writing talents, Good People is gonna be tough to beat. Recorded in 2011 at Old School Records, it is one of those releases that grabs you instantly, and doesn't let go until the final note is played. It's raw and blemished, with not-so-subtle glimpses from the hey-day of the Rolling Stones. (Think of the Jamming with Edward sessions which the Stones recorded with Ry Cooder and Nicky Hopkins.) This album should be labeled with a warning sticker, because it's sonic heroin. It's been in my car's rotation for about 5 months now and I still haven't gotten sick of it.

Good People, despite it's name would make the perfect soundtrack to a bar room brawl, as it has that honky tonk quality to it that one would imagine exists on back alley and side street jukeboxes. If Partridge is indeed correct in that the Tramps' next release will be bluesier and more rootsy, then God bless 'em. I'm certainly looking forward to hearing it. Until then, do yourself a favor and find Good People.

It's unjust that it's one of the least talked about albums from the local scene, because it's definitely one of the best.

Lesson Seven: self-titled
(2012 SonicFactory Studios)

When Bryan York passed me an advanced copy of Lesson Seven's latest release several months ago, I was expecting to hear something completely different than the product I actually received. For reasons that are probably unfair to the band, I was under the impression that Lesson Seven was a metal act. It probably had more to do with the band's name than anything else, but my hunch was way off. The album is a delightful mixture of soul, rap, hard rock and R&B, with carefully inserted elements of jazz. Though I was expecting something different, the album (which remains untitled) instantly struck me as being something special. First of all the sound engineering is incredible, and the music is as unique and complex as anything I have heard in a long time.

I can only surmise that these fellas are institutionally trained musicians because it seems that they have whittled this album down to the finest details, whether it's the vocal tracks, the guitar work, or the drum components. Each segment is carefully engineered to the finest point, and worked out to the most minute details. This album is as much a tutorial in sound engineering as it is a brilliant musical release. While it was mixed by York and Jon Locker, kudos also go out to SonicFactory Studios, Focus Mastering, and also Kyle Sherod Mastering for their collective work in building this excellent recording. The fourth track, "Memory" is especially pleasing to the ears and deserves mention.

"Memory" and the other songs on this album are a good example of what makes the Des Moines scene so vibrant and diverse. If one was to play this album for somebody who was unaware of it's origin, they might be surprised that this wasn't a national touring band with all the pieces in place to be a major player. It's incredible to me that Des Moines is capable of delivering such compounded works of musical art, and I have to admit that based off this record's musical quality, I'm astounded that Lesson Seven is still planted in Iowa. Having a band of this caliber playing for bar-room cover is a huge compliment to the Des Moines scene. I've been told by more than a few people that I need to see this band live. If their performance onstage is as polished and pure as it is in the studio, then it will be something to be reckoned with.

North of Grand: A Farewell to Rockets
(2012 Brolester Records)

One of my favorite albums of the year is North of Grand's latest release, A Farewell to Rockets.

Seriously. I fucking LOVE this record.

It's that perfect mixture of teenage angst, sensible guitar, and warehouse foot stomp that I so shamelessly crave to feed my musical jones. Note for note this recording delivers as much satisfaction as anything I've listened to in the past five years. That's saying something because while I normally shy away from radio-friendly rock and roll, this album begs to be played on the airwaves. It's as good or better than anything I've actually heard on FM dial, but without the hyperbolic, over-produced, repetitive bullshit that usually accompanies the trash that Clear Channel and Cumulus feed us on a daily basis. It's just pure and simple bubblegum flavored post-punk rock and roll.

The opening track, "Hey Man" is as good an introduction to an album that exists in modern music. Catchy and full of punch, it says "Hello" in a way that exceeds anything other than perhaps meeting your long lost uncle Larry in a foreign airport. This album has Andy Shernoff's style of production written all over it, although I'm guessing that it's not intentional. It is however, a testament to the character of this record, musically and production-wise.

North of Grand are veterans on the scene, and are finally getting the mass respect that they deserve. This is their first record on the Brolester label, and it's also their first as a four piece, with Matt Wellendorf  joining along on guitar. He brings a new ingredient to the band's sound, and his contribution is noticed in comparison to North of Grand's earlier releases. There's an cloud of maturity that  settles around this latest recording, that might have been absent in the previous efforts. This band has always been a tight outfit but with the addition of Wellendorf, they are truly locked in.

A Farewell to Rockets is must have for anyone who likes House of Large Sizes, the Dictators, or anything Mike Watt. And while the entire North of Grand catalog deserves respect, this latest release will be the one that catapults them to national prominence. I suggest that you call your local radio station immediately and demand to hear "Hey Man" or "No Way Down." When they tell you that they don't have it, ask them to get it. Then do this every single day until they oblige.

The world will be a much better place with this new standard of radio rock. North of Grand is capable of carrying that torch.

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Pertinent Links:

King of the Tamps Official

King of the Tramps on Facebook

Lesson Seven on Facebook

North of Grand Official

North of Grand on Facebook

 

Bigfoot Diaries Exclusive Conversation: Talking Music and Movies with Des Moines' Rich Cantrell

Almost every local scene has it: That one musician who's versatility stretches beyond the ability of playing multiple instruments.

This person is also adept at creating songs from a theoretical standpoint, whether it's from writing profound lyrics or catchy melodies. This person is multifarious in his ability to write music of virtually any genre, and is held in high regard within the city's musical community.

In Des Moines, one of these people is Rich Cantrell. As a veteran of the local music scene, he has done it all. In the late '80s he formed Redwing, a noteworthy band that was known for it's Led Zeppelin style arrangements and it's dynamic live performances. In this band, Rich enjoyed being at the pinnacle of the Des Moines rock and roll scene, sharing the stage with the likes of other local favorites including Drasbury, Stone Sour and later, Slipknot.

"We had been around for three or four years before Corey (Taylor) formed Stone Sour," Rich told me in a telephone conversation. "We were always playing with those guys at places like Hairy Mary's. After Stone Sour broke up, it seemed that we were always playing with Slipknot..."



Rich performing with Cirrus Minor
(This photo and all others by Sherri Irons)

The rock and roll scene in Des Moines during the early '90s was a hodge podge of talented musicians. Redwing was a front runner at the time, captivating audiences with unshackled tenacity. It was they whom many thought might go on to gain national aclaim, but just about the time they started to slow down, Slipknot started to gain momentum in the national spotlight. Slipknot went on to play Ozzfest in '99 and the rest is history.

Redwing does occasionally perform and play on a rare occurence, and when they do, it is always a giant event that is met with hyper enthusiasm. They played a concert to commemorate their 20th anniversary on November 29th, 2008 at the House of Bricks, and it was completely sold out.

These days Rich is probably best known for playing keyboards with Cirrus Minor, a band that defies genre and is considered THE party band in the Des Moines area. They'll hit an audience with a variety of different styles, be it psychedelia, heavy metal, reggae or jam band, and they'll often mix it up in the same set just to keep the party fresh.

He's also in the hard rocking band Alchemist, a Pink Floyd tribute band called From the Darkside of the Wall, a Doors tribute band called No One Here Gets Out Alive, a punk outfit called Dumfux, another project called The Family which is a conglomerate of musicians from several different local bands, an acoustic duo with Mike Ruby called Ruby/Cantrell, and two other bands, Drop Dead Last and  Crown King Revival.

And as if that wasn't enough to keep him completely busy, he still manages to find the time to create musical scores for local film maker, Thor Moreno. Moreno has made several films in California and Des Moines, and each one he makes seems to get granted a bigger budget than the one before it, and the filming seem to get more technical with each venture. Of course with higher technology there comes higher expectations, and the need for an elaborate soundtrack intensifies. To Thor Moreno, hiring Rich Cantrell for this job was a no-brainer.

"I have known Rich since I was about 18 and have always regarded him as one of the most creative and talented musicians around." Thor told me, when contacted by email.

"I was honored when he accepted my invitation." He continued. "I have always felt that Rich goes out of his way to help me realize my vision. He is a true professional."

The latest film Rich will be working on is called Murder Incorporated. It comes on the heels of another project that Rich worked on, a film called IOWA, which will debut on December 15th at the Varsity Theater. (Tickets are on sale now... Get them while they are still available.)

Because writing a musical score for a movie seems like such a mind consuming venture, I thought it would be fun to pick Rich's brain about it, and see where his inspiration comes from. I learned a lot from talking with him, and I was impressed how congenial he was in accepting my questions, and how gracious he was in giving his answers. I have always found him to be nothing but extremely friendly when I've seen him out, so it shouldn't come as any surprise that he was so patient with me and willing to engage me in conversation. I have always respected Rich as a person and a musician and his time with me is very appreciated.

Rich creating music in his studio.
(Click to enlarge)

So How did it come to be that you are writing the score for Murder Incorporated?

I've always been interested in writing movie scores....a lot of what I write in the past has been geared more towards mood music....kind of a journey of emotions and imagination....and when I watch a movie, I do make a point to pay attention to the score...or the music behind the scene....so my long time friend...Thor Moreno...who had been living out in Cali...and doing short films and such...moved back to town and had a vision and a goal to produce a full feature film...and set out to do it....he had contacted me about acting in a scene for the movie "I Think I just Saw the Devil"....so I brought up wanting to write some music for the movie...and he agreed....that's pretty much how it all came about....so he gave me a few scenes...and I got to work on it....and the response was great...ya know?,....people were talking about the music of the film, and I think it was then that we decided to partner up on any future endeavors in film making....after the success of "Devil"...Thor immediately started working his Movie "IOWA"...which I'm currently working on....and which will be released mid December of this year....and a couple months ago he got a call to direct the upcoming movie "Murder Incorporated"....which has a budget of 300k behind it....so he called me and told me the news, and signed the contract....and when we get through the release of "IOWA"....we will get to work on "Murder Incorporated".

How is writing music for a movie different than say... writing a song, or an instrumental piece?

I try to watch....and capture the emotion of the scene...or interpret it in music, vs. writing what's in your head.

So, do you provide all the music yourself, or are you working with others?

I always write and perform the music... So, I will go in and record the piece as I want it ..and then, If I have something written that requires a more skilled player on an instrument, like a fiddle for example, then I bring someone in to record the track for me....I also scout for local bands original material to possibly use in the film, if its fitting to the scene.

Who are some of the local bands that you have solicited?

In the latest film "IOWA"...I have chosen to use a couple tracks from the band ISAAC JAMES.....in the first film "I Think I Just Saw the Devil"...we used a couple tracks from CIRRUS MINOR.....and I will start scouting around some more here soon for the upcoming Project/Movie "MURDER INCORPORATED"

How do you handle "writer's block" or those moments when there is nothing clicking upstairs that seems relevant to the piece you are trying to create?

Man....I have been very fortunate to have my wife and kids beside me in all that I do....and they help me to keep the inspiration box full.....and doing sooo many different projects musically, keeps me well rounded....so its pretty rare that I have a writers block moment.



Rich being interviewd by Sonya D. Doswell  at the
Iowa Motion Picture Association Awards ceremony.
He was nominated for best original score for his work
in "I Think I Just Saw the Devil."

Cool... Are there any challenges involved, or does it seem to come very easy to you?

Really, the only challenge is trying to convey the emotion of the scene into music....so I'll sit and watch the scene and observe how it makes me feel, and go from there...but it generally comes quickly....and finding time in between everything else I have going on with show dates, and rehearsing, and family stuff.

Ok you mentioned that the latest film you will be working on (Murder Incorporated) has a budget of 300 thousand dollars. What does that mean for you?

Maybe the opportunity to hire a small ensemble/orchestra to perform/record the material I have written, to give the music a more acoustic and overall better quality sound..some of the violin and brass patches that I use, can't quite capture the way a real orchestra moves with dynamics and such...I mean, I've done pretty good so far, but working with a real ensemble would just be a more professional approach..which would be an incredible experience for me also, to direct an orchestra performing my music...but we shall see.

Is there any chance that the score of each of these films, or any one of them will be released on CD?

I'm thinking about compiling a disc of the first two movies and releasing it....but still undecided.

What factors are involved with that decision?

Some of the score that I have written fits certain moments of each scene...so I would have to go in and re-track or re-work the pieces to a more structured listening experience.

In an ideal situation, where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In ten years I see myself on an oxygen tank and a wheelchair....haha....but seriously....I just hope to be able to sustain myself and my family by doing what I love to do...writing, creating, performing, touring, and recording music man....whether it be with Cirrus Minor..or a band situation....or movie scores....or whatever.

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Pertinent Links:

Cirrus Minor on Facebook

Murder Incorporated on Facebook

IOWA (The Movie) on Facebook

I Think I Just Saw the Devil on IMDb

 

Bryan's List of Local Music Happenings 11/19/12

My apologies to those who played Monday night as this is a day late. Additions and corrections appreciated. Thanks Bryan!

Monday 11/19/12

Findley Family Fun Fest with Scot Sutherland at the Greenwood 7:00
Michelle McGuire with the Foxholes, Ryne Doughty at Vaudeville Mews 9:30

Tuesday 11/20/12

Andy Fleming at el Bait Shop 8:00
Glovebox Whiskey (Darren Mathews and Ryne Doughty) at the Greenwood 9:30

Wednesday 11/21/12

Reeferseed Express at Hull Avenue Tap 6:00 (With $1 beers!)
Thankful Dirt at Songwriter's Night at Raccoon River Brewery 7:00
William Elliott Whitmore with Derek Lambert 8:00
Andy Fleming at Fire Creek in WDM 6:30
Bob Pace Band at Zimm's 7:00

Brian Holtz Band at el Bait Shop 8:00

Bill Matykowski at the Greenwood 7:30

Dan Tedesco at the Gas Lamp 9:00

Damon Dotson at New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern (Grimes) 6:00

 

Thursday 11/22/12

Open Jam featuring Scott Long ay the Gas Lamp 9:00
Soul Searchers at the Greenwood 9:00

Friday 11/23/12

 

Work Release Party with Bob Pace at the Gas Lamp 4:30

Steve Kowbel at Fire Creek in WDM 7:00

Jeff Banks with Scot Sutherland at the Greenwood 9:00

Harper at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Josh Davis and Will Locker at New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern 8:30

Final Mix featuring Del "Saxman" Jones at Wooly's 9:30

The Big Tuxedos with Ben Wantland at House of Bricks 9:30

 

This week's featured show
Saturday night at the House of Bricks
(Click to enlarge)

 

 

Saturday 11/24/12

 

The Steepwater Band at the Gas Lamp 9:00
Crooked Mile at the Greenwood 9:00
Jason Walsmith at the New Morning Coffee House and Wine Tavern 8:00
Bonnie Finken at the Peace Tree Brewery in Knoxville 8:00
Randy Burke and the Prisoners at the Raccoon River Brewery 9:00
Chad Elliott and Steve Parry at the Grape Vine in Clive 7:00 (RSVP only)
Benefit for Kingston: Mars on Fire, As For You, Hath No Fury, Aren't We All, Ashes Armada, 12 Days Silent, This Sudden Darkness, Nest of Snakes at the House of Bricks 9:00
Rock Island Rollers at the Star Bar 9:00

Sunday 11/25/12

Harper at Byron's in Pomeroy at 5:00
Howling Buddha at el Bait Shop 8:00
Josh Davis at the Grape Vine in Clive 7:00 (RSVP only)