KickActs interviews “NoMara”!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
Face Book link: NoMara
Website: Nomara
Responses by all members as noted:
Kelly Burdge: Lead vocals
John LeCompt: Back-up Vocals and Guitar
Jack Larson: Drums
Josh Grissom: Guitar
Thad Ables: Bass
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
Kelly: All my musical heroes are based upon seeing them perform live and processed the ability to move me emotionally in a way that can only be described as electric. David Lee Roth (early years), Jani Lane, Scott Stapp (early Creed years), Brent Smith (early Shinedown), Jeff Keith, Brett Michaels, Katy Perry, Gwen Stephanie. Authenticity rules.
John: Crowbar, Pantera, Metallica, Hank III, Slayer, Twenty-One Pilots, Florence And The Machine, Massive Attack, Lana Del Rey, Die Antwoord…a multitude. I take in something from everything. If it sounds good, it goes into the memory bank and I pull all I can from it.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
John:
The only advice that I consistently share is to do it because you love it. No matter what happens, good or bad, there are rewards and disappointments, either way. Making music and bringing something creative and beautiful into the world is it’s own reward, regardless of fame, money and popularity. If you have that attitude, then good things and opportunities will make themselves known at the right time and even if they don’t, you will be fulfilled and satisfied.
Kelly: Never give up and there is no longer such thing as being too old. Stay in shape, take care of yourself and follow your heart. Just because you have a family and are forced to “quit” the band, don’t stop playing and writing. If it’s what you want to do, you can do it, it may just NOT unfold the way you think was supposed to.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
Kelly: So far nothing I can think of. I typically listen to everyone and let it settle in, eventually if you are true to yourself and to others the right way will be unveiled as we go along.
Thad: None that I can think of. I have an issue with taking advice to begin with. For the most part I have no regrets in this matter.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Kelly: The very first time I performed on stage my favorite song at the time was called Overrated. I completely forgot the words and made up both verses on the fly by rhyming and mumbling.
John: The worst would have to be the twenty minute trip between the main road and the destination at the Festimod festival in Madrid, Spain. You have to drive right next to where the entire city’s sewage runs to. True story, the worst smell in the world. The best would have to be playing direct support for Metallica in the same city.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
Jack: Other than music. I love playing soccer. I’ve played since I was 3. Had the privilege of playing in Europe . Also big into working out and spending time with the nephews.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
Josh: It sucks. People are just lazy and would rather watch it on YouTube
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
Thad: It’s certainly hasn’t brought any substantial value to the game. I’m fairly indifferent to talent shows such as this anyway. There is a downside to it, of course. Here we have starving, ambitious talents who
will lay their hopes and dreams before a panel of random judges, and they’ll be put through trials to determine their worth as a valuable contender. For some, it’s a make or break moment. That’s an unfortunate way of approaching it. The only test I feel is worthwhile is the road test. Tour tour tour. Your panel of judges are an authentic audience, and that matters. That means something.The upside to these talent shows are the ones who don’t win, but still continue to tour after their little bit of TV limelight has come and gone. When all is said is done, the touring life is the only real currency in this business anymore.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
Kelly: Well from a financial standpoint it has crippled the industry for a majority of bands. However, given the option of having someone take it for free vs. pay, please take it but at least come to one of our shows. Have some respect for the amount of time and money it takes us to create these songs. At least give us a shout out once in a while. Free music and tour buy on’s make it nearly impossible to even come close to breaking even for 90% of bands. I have not stolen a song since back in the Napster days. I understood the problem with it and don’t do it. Even before I was in a band. Even today I spend hundreds on I-Tunes cards for my kids.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
John: I think the latter part of my “influences” answer may be something that wouldn’t be expected. That, and I do a damn good impression of Josh, our guitar player. It’s pretty spot on and always good for a laugh.
Jack: I suppose something that most wouldn’t expect from me is that, when I’m not touring around playing drums, I work healthcare. I’ve worked with kids and adults who’ve sustained brain and spinal injuries along with working at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. I love helping people. That won’t ever leave me.
Josh: I waited tables for 10 years in every restaurant imaginable while looking for my big break with music.
Thad: I usually don’t listen to metal when I’m on my downtime, very rarely, in fact. There’s so many varieties of music out there, and I embrace, own and listen to everything I can get my hands on. To me, a
good song is a good song, no matter the genre or when it was made. I embrace all of it. I mean, right now I’m listening to Blind Willie McTell, sooo..
Kelly: Everything that is happening in my life today I imagined it years ago.
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Josh: The skipper because that’s the only part of the song I remember.
Kelly: Mary Anne. I love brunettes. Plus Mrs. Howel was taken.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Thad: Of course! My first albums, besides cassettes, were vinyl. My dad owned an eclectic mix of vinyl such as CCR’s “Cosmo’s Factory”, Kraftwerk’s “Autobahn”, The Beatles “Rubber Soul” & ‘Help”, Jesus Christ Superstar Soundtrack, Rare Earth “Get Ready.” I personally owned Ozzy Osbourne/Randy Rhoads Tribute, Slayer’s “Hell Awaits”, Kiss “Animalize” etc.
Kelly: Kiss Alive II
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
Jack: Hmm..stuck on an island with the Biebs. I’d probably try and get a NoMara shoutout via his twitter or Instagram before he gets choked out. Either that, or see if he could introduce me to some Hollywood ladies. But classy ones.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
Jack: Ole Miley. I don’t think she’s all that bad. She actually has a good voice. Other than that, twerking is stupid. Also, I miss her long hair. She had it going on then.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip synching or real vocals?
Kelly: Really strange question. Real vocals all day long. Most rock songs today including our own have so many layers to them that it helps fill space using a small amount of background tracks. NEVER is actual lip
synching involved.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
Josh: Anything that appeals to the masses and has a capitalist agenda. It’s all about money not art. So whoever can create a dance while simultaneously telling you you’re not cool until you have expensive clothes, cars and women. That will be the next big thing
Kelly: Thad Ables, John LeCompt, Jack Larson, Josh Grissom
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
John: Foreigner or Judas Priest. It’s a toss-up.
Kelly: Tesla, without question. My story with Tesla is amazing.
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
Kelly: When I was 16 my mom had a car I had to drive….the bad part, the license number was BJI 69. Not cool and NO they were not personalized.
Jack: Secrets?? I don’t really have any secrets. I scratched my head for a while with this one. I wish I had a good one. I can eat a tub of Nesquik powder in like 2 days. That’s 72 servings according to the tub.
It’s a real problem.
John: I can’t run fast or play basketball.
Thad: Downtown Abbey….
Josh: I love Justin Timberlake. He’s awesome. A truly talented individual.
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Jack: Anyone who knows me hates the fact that I’m not much of a movie watcher. They’re some really good ones out there. I’ll go with The Fifth Element. It’s just a solid movie. Former badass who becomes a deadbeat. The supreme being falls in his lap and they save the universe together. Deebo is the President?? A lot of curveballs and orange hair.
Josh: Fight Club. Because every time I watch it I learn something new about myself.
Thad: Nightmare City (1980)!!! Kidding, kinda. Although it certainly belongs high up my list. I’m such an extreme film fanatic that makes this question impossible to answer. My tastes go all the way back to the silent era, with films from all over the world. Movies from Sergei Eisenstein, Jean Vigo, Akira Kurosawa, Andrei Tarkovsky, Jess Franco, Dario Argento, Lucio Fulci, Federico Fellini, Mario Bava, Tod Bowning, Fritz Lang, F.W. Murnau, the list goes on and on. I’m afraid this the best answer I can give on this subject.
John: The Shining. For many reasons, unknown to me, I really identify with Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrence.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
Kelly: I took the liberty to answer this question. If you are a fan of rock and roll and want to HELP keep it going so your children and grandchildren can experience and enjoy, make a New Year Resolution for 2016
to:
1. Look up the active rock charts and LISTEN to 5 bands outside of the top 20.
2. Go see 2 of them and bring 2 friends at least once during the year
3. Purchase one thing from them
4. Share and push those bands to all your social media friends.
5. Do it every year and get 5 of your friends to do the same
This small request will keep it alive and allow us to create more ear candy than you can consume! Until then, download our EP “…And So It Begins” for FREE via the link below. Come see us in 2016 and purchase our full length CD during the first quarter of 2016 ONLY after you downloaded the EP for FREE and like it.
Those American Rebel Forces are your instructions
Regardless,
We love you!
Kelly
Categories: General Tags: Active Rock, Arkansas, Columbus, Hard Rock, Little Rock, MUEN Magazine, Ohio, rock, Shauna O'Donnell
KickActs interviews Norman Matthew of “Murder FM”!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
NORMAN MATTHEW: (in the vein of Tenacious D) Murder FM, greatest band on earth haha! We are the second coming of arena rock and not to proud to say
You can #getevil and find us online at murderfmmusic.com
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
NORMAN MATTHEW: KISS, MOTLEY CRUE, GUNS N ROSES for that big, edgy, arena rock sound with huge hooks. THE CURE and DEPECHE MODE for introducing a dark, sleek, sexiness to lyrical content, because I’m not much a partier, so I really connected with that growing up, along with a dark classiness to band imagery I fell in love with. Then there was NINE INCH NAILS. Trent changed the game for me and opened my ears to an whole other sensory level of production. I adopted Trent Reznor’s work ethic in that i write the songs for the band, then bring them to the jam room to bring them to life live. Im not a jammer, i like to have a blue print or a road map with at least a general idea of where I am heading. NIN really influenced me production wise as well..
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Learn it from the inside out!! Educate yourself on every level from management to booking, from being a roadie to a producer. The only way to be successful in this new industry model is to understand the business at the core, from the inside out, much like executives need to have product knowledge. The educated musician is the musician that will survive in this new world order of music.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
NORMAN MATTHEW: I have listened to every piece of advice ever given to me from anyone who came before me was willing to give me. I may not have followed it all, but I tailored it to what fit me. Best advice I ever received, “be careful who you step on the way up, because you see them on the way down” and “they can’t feel what doesn’t have feeling, so put every bit of yourself in every note”, i morphed that one so i can feel yoda like.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Hmmm, that’s hard. EVERY show comes with it’s own set of challenges, from travel to sleep deprivation, the stress of having a hand in the business and in the creative, but i try to not focus on the negative and i never, ever look back or dwell on what i could’ve done, i just learn and move on. DEF greatest memory, first UK tour being sold out and performing in cities I only dreamed of as a kid such as Cardiff, Wales, Glasgow, Scotland and London, England, UK Fans Represent!
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos haha! I’m a video game freak, love WWE Wrestling, I re-watch episodes of King Of the Hill and I’m addicted to DDP Yoga..yup I said, ALL of that.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
NORMAN MATTHEW: I don’t really pay attention to the scene, I’m too busy worrying about creating OUR scene and bringing something new to the table. Time for a new regime and a new legion to take over. I’ll either succeed or fail, but it will be on my terms and with my peeps \m/
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Both. Anything that can give an artist exposure and a chance to thrive in the business is always a plus to me on any level, i’m not a hater like that. I do feel it has hurt the mentality and the work ethic. Perception is reality and on the outside, it makes it seem like all you have to do is get on one of these shows, competition or in a battle of the bands and you are set. It takes years of work, blood, sweat equity and tears. You have to earn your way up the proverbial latter within the industry and network, while creating your brand, understanding your market and growing as an artist. Opportunity only pays off when an artist really has something to offer. Until then, keep driving in that van and jamming in the basement until you know in your heart it’s right. If your mind is connected to your heart and your soul, you will know.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Sucks. I love it as a consumer, but as a musician, it’s hard. It’s not about the money, but it’s about your favorite artist being able to survive as a musician and financially sustain yourself to keep creating. People seem to think if you are a “rockstar”, you are somehow rich. Spotify pays crap, Who knows what Apple Music will do and do some simple math of your own, split $0.99 between, band members, manager, label, distribution, marketing and you tell me who’s robbing who at the end of the day haha! If you are going to take music for free, at least support your favorite bands by going to the shows, buying the merch. and spreading the word like a disease, that’s the best way to help your favorite artists art.
I thank you in advance! \m/
Click the album cover to get it at Amazon!
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
NORMAN MATTHEW: I wish I could. We are all pretty chill dudes, no good drama and weird quirks. We like to create and maintain all our madness onstage…and believe me…it shows
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
NORMAN MATTHEW: That’s a loaded question, that could get me in trouble no matter how you slice it haha! If i HAD to pick, it would be either Gilligan for the laughs or Ginger for the…..laughs, yeah that’s it!
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
NORMAN MATTHEW: are you kidding me? i grew up on vinyl. My 1yr old loves to listen to KISS “Alive II” or Guns N Roses “Appetite For Destruction” before bed with me, not even kidding! Those are his lullabies.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
NORMAN MATTHEW: I’d keep him around just to torment him, If I killed him, then I would be bored. Hopefully he owns the island we are marooned on, then I’d live it up! I have the super power of tuning people out, so it’s easy for me to ignore things.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
NORMAN MATTHEW: who didn’t love “Achy Breaky Heart”? Oh wait, that’s her dad ha! I don’t ever pay attention to that celeb scene because it’s a waste of my day. It’s like, who cares and how does this effect me and my life? so im pretty out of touch with all that and always will be.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Lead Singers being lead vocalists of course! I Love hearing a singer tell their story, even if it’s breathy or pitchy, it’s real. Additional vocals in live production on track are nothing to be scoffed at though, some huge productions have to do it and much like playing to a metronome or click track live, you have to be spot on, the whole time. So as long as there’s reality in the mix, i don’t mind a little fantasy to ensure the live show is amazing. People pay their hard earned money to see a great show. Deliver.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
NORMAN MATTHEW: Murder FM. haha! I don’t know, it’s hard to tell, attention spans are so short these days and technology allows Anyone to put Anything out, there’s no natural filter anymore. Murder FM want to bring rock back to arenas \m
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
NORMAN MATTHEW: KISS
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
NORMAN MATTHEW: I’m terrified of karaoke. I don’t drink and i play an instrument, so you can see where i’m a terrible candidate for karaoke, i take it too serious haha!
Favorite movie of all time and why.
NORMAN MATTHEW: Nightmare Before Christmas. The imagery, the characters, the story, the combination of my two favorite holidays and without a doubt, the score by Dany Elfman. I absolutely love his work.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
NORMAN MATTHEW: You know what grinds my gears? People looking down on Fake boobs, why do people frown upon them? i mean really, they aren’t fake. i can see them, touch them, they don’t disappear and make my Ocd very happy. hahahahaha! I’m sure that will get me in all kinds of trouble, but i don’t really think about many other things. Man, born and bred! “Sex,Sex and Rock N Roll”
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Categories: General Tags: arena rock, Dallas, drugs, guns n roses, kickacts, KISS, metal, motley crue, MUEN Magazine, murder FM, rock and roll, sex, TX, youtube
Jimmy Beattie of “Season’s After” shredding!
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Jimmy Beattie is the lead guitarist for the band SEASONS AFTER.
The band has several Top 40 singles in Active Rock World and they are
currently pushing a new album entitled “Calamity Scars & Memoirs”.
The latest single off the album is called “Weathered & Worn” and is
currently in the Top 50 songs at Active Rock Radio.
Here is Jimmy Beattie performing a guitar inspired track of his own called
“Without Warning”!
For the entire interview of “SEASONS AFTER”
Click HERE
Support Music! Check out the band Seasons After here:
website: http://www.seasonsafter.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seasonsafternation
twitter: @SeasonsAfter
Tony Housh of “Seasons After” interview!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
Hi. My name is Tony Housh and I am the vocalist for the band Seasons After. You can find us at
www.facebook.com/seasonsafternation
www.instagram.com/seasonsafter
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
I have a few heroes. One of them would be Corey Taylor. I have followed Corey since the first time that I had heard Slipknot. I was blown away at the the way this crazy dude in a mask could scream. I use to listen to Slipknot and think how is it humanly possible for a person to make that kind of brutality happen with their voice. I would study it trying to find his tricks. I would even seek out live performances in order to hear his true voice without all the production. He was just killer to me, but where he became one of my musical heroes was when I heard “Bother” on the radio by Stone Sour. Once I heard that dude sing I was completely floored. He became one of my heroes! Another one of my heroes that actually popped up on my radar around the same time was Chris Volz of Flaw. Volz was the dude that made me realize I could sing and scream and make it badass! I spent a lot of time listening to his choruses. I just loved how big they could get and the intensity that would follow in the throw downs. I actually modeled a lot of my music that I wrote at that time very specific to a Volz type style. So you can imagine how exciting it was for me 14 years later to find myself touring with Flaw. Another reason Volz is one of my heroes is because he’s actually a cool dude. Its always nice to put someone on a pedestal and leave them there for all the right reasons.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
If I had any advice to give to anyone getting started in the music business it would be this. Don’t limit yourself to just one thing. Learn more than just your instrument. Learn the production side of things early. In the future you can save yourself thousands in production costs. Not to mention that you can make a living while your not out on the road while tracking for other acts. Learn the business. Its a tricky business and you need to be prepared for that. The more you educate yourself on the inner workings the better the chance you may not get screwed! And never give up. If you truly are a hardcore put your nose to the pavement musician then you will see your share of ups and downs. Be prepared to fail. Its going to happen. The important thing is to know from the beginning is that you are dedicated and this is what you do. Never quit. No matter the obstacle and there are many.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
Stop making that face or its gonna stay that way.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Sure. I would say the most humiliating gig that I ever played was my very first. I was 17 years old and I had been searching for my first band to attempt to sing for. I grew up in a small town in Texas. Population around 3500 or so. So you can imagine that there weren’t to many rock bands around. In fact there was only one that I was aware of. So one day these band dudes come into Dairy Queen where I worked. As soon as I realized it was the band guys I quickly removed my apron so that I could personally deliver their food to them once I had prepared their burgers. So I gave them my number. Well they called me like one week later and suddenly needed a singer. Not only did they need a singer but they needed me ready in a week! A week! One week to learn 4 hours of cover tunes. Well I was so enthusiastic and excited they had called that I decided that I had better take the gig. I may not get another chance! So one week later I went and played my very first gig at place called Bostocks in Stephenville Tx. It was a nightmare. I was reading lyrics off of sheets. I was a mess! I had no idea how to even be a frontman much less sing songs that I didn’t completely know. At one point the bass player actually apologized and explained that I was new. We didn’t even finish the night. They fired us in mid set and made us load out right there in front of everyone. It was humiliating as hell. But I didn’t lose my spirit. It actually made me very anal about live performances and it made me a much more serious musician. My band was fired by the club my very first time singing for a rock band and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
I really don’t have any hobbys. I guess that makes me weird in some peoples eyes, but why do I need a hobby when I already live a dream? Hobbies are an escape to something you enjoy from your everyday life. Right? Right! Well I love what I do. It involves loud stuff, bright lights, computers, creativity, travel, people, and just a ton of fun in general. No escape needed or desired…yet.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
Well I will say that I miss the days of when rock ruled the world! When rockstars had jets with their names on them and it was totally cool to trash a hotel room. That all seems to be gone with the exception of the few exceptions. It seems that pop hip hop and country have ran off with it all these days. Ive heard people say that rock/metal just kind of lost its thing with the masses but to be honest I think the masses got lost in the world of overproduced pop stars rap stars and drug store cowboys. Not that I dislike these genres but Its a shame that more people won’t go out to a rock show that comes into town for 10 bucks, but they will on the other hand fork out the big bucks for Taylor Swift (nothing against Swift). Its like people enjoy feeding the corporate bs machine (i.e. large record companies). So yes. Its a shame that we have allowed money to dictate art and what art is made readily available. Hopefully people will come to realize that there are some really great rock bands out there that are dying to entertain them. And maybe, just maybe they’ll start choosing to hit up a rock show on the weekend and skip out on the $200.00 Saturday night kum ba yah brainwashing session at the local civic center. Lets get them horns up and support those bands that you enjoy so much. They need you!
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I personally am not a fan of these types of shows. Just another example of the pumping of corporate crap out onto the masses. I agree there are some very talented people on these shows and thats not what this is about. This is more about this whole instant gratification everyone is a star type culture. What about the people out there on the road traveling all over the country trying to get some recognition. The ones who have honed their skills night after night after night. The ones who truly appreciate the sale of an album or the fact that you ask them to sign something. These are the warriors! These are the people who have taken the real risk! Not someone who sings in the shower in the comfort of their home and takes a week of vacation to go and try out for the voice in hopes of instant stardom. There’s no stripes earned in that. I guess Im just old school. I like to earn what I have and I respect people who aren’t looking for the easiest and safest way to attain their goals. Sometimes you just gotta go for it rather than waiting for the easy or safer route. I just don’t feel like these shows reflect that type of mentality, but hey thats just me.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
Well it does suck for sure. Its the equivalent of me walking into Wal Mart and just taking whatever I want. For some reason its okay to steal a song though. I’m Not sure why. I guess its because you can’t actually hold it and you can steal it in the safety and the confines of your home. Its insulting actually to spend time writing a song, recording a song, and not to mention the amount of money spent (yes it does cost money). We pay for advertising to put it out just so that it can be stolen. Its the equivalent of having a contractor come to your home and paint the entire inside of your house. He has bought supplies i.e. paint and brushes and probably has an employee or two. All of whom he must pay in order to complete the service. The contractor finishes up and goes for payment and kaboom! “Sorry your not getting paid.” says the homeowner and he sends the painter on his way without payment of services. Now Im willing to bet that painter would flip out. He has to pay his guys, he has to cover the material expenses and who knows what else. The problem is that the paint is already on the wall and theres no going back. He just lost his ass. Do musicians not render a service? Do musicians not create a product? Of course they do and thats why its stealing.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Well…Jimmy can sing verbatim most pop songs that I roll my eyes at. Dawson is a big fan of Aquariums and fish sticks. Tim plays his drums naked while looking at pictures from National Geographic and Kyle has a thing for eating turkey sandwiches in the dark while scratching lotto tickets.
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Thats easy. Mary Ann because she’s Mary Ann and someone needs to make something happen before the professor makes a move.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Yes. Michael Jackson Thriller
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
Nope. I’ll keep him around. I’m going to need some help getting things set up for myself on the island. That means a lot of work and manual labor. Thats what I’ll have Bieber taking care of. Once he has my hut built and all of the food situation handled I”ll probably just eat him for Thanksgiving or something.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
I really have no thoughts on Miley because to be honest I just don’t care. I wouldn’t even know who she is if she hadn’t been force fed to us all.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip synching or real vocals?
Real vocals Check out Seasons After Vid▶ SEASONS AFTER – “LIGHTS OUT”
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
To be honest I don’t pay to much attention to THE NEXT BIG THING type stuff. I’m to busy trying to keep my little thing a float.
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Phil Collins
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
I pick my nose at the bottom and top of every hour.
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Spaceballs. I love Mel Brooks. His Humor is so raw and stupid. I love it.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
My shout out for this go round could be anything I guess, but today I would like to think about a subject that is near and dear to my heart. This is something that has been eating on me for quite some time. You guessed it… Subway changed their ranch and it’s just not the same! Why in the world would subway change something that is so incredibly important out for this new generic flavored ranch they have decided to switch too. I taste more like mayo than ranch! Come on Subway. I just don’t understand. I hope that Jared reads this and takes it into consideration. That is all.
KickActs interviews Alexis Brown of “Straight Line Stitch”!
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Album release June 30th! Pre-order here!
Transparency Pre-Orders are available here: <http://www.bestbuy.com/site/transparency-cd/7475241.p?id=3374090&skuId=7475 241> http://www.bestbuy.com/site/transparency-cd/7475241.p?id=3374090&skuId=74752 41
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
My name is Alexis and I sing for the band Straight Line Stitch. We can be
found on all the major social networks such
as Facebook.com/straightlinestitch
Facebook.com/alexis.brown.902066
Twitter @lexsls
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
Stevie Nicks and Sade because their voices are epic. They are legendary in their on rite and their styles are both timeless.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
Always make sure you know what the heck is going on! Know your business and don’t let anyone BS you, but most importantly push as hard as possible and let nothing sway you from your dreams and goals.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
I wish I would have listened more to my brother and my dad when it came to being more involved in the business aspect of things in the past instead of just counting on everyone else to handle all the business.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Playing overseas for the first time in the UK for the Download Festival was amazing and we had a blast. I remember feeling sick to my stomach with nervousness on seeing just how massive the crowd was. It was an intense epic moment in time.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
I collect Walt Disney’s Goofy items and I am a old school horror movie fanatic.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
It would be nice if the music scene had more camaraderie. It seems like nowadays everyone is only out for themselves and that kinda blows. There are so many great bands and musicians out there to get to know and play with but I notice the scene is very “clicky”.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
One could say these shows have over saturated the industry but it’s also helped a lot of people get their voice heard.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
It helps and it hurts. I think it has pushed the music industry in the direction that it’s going.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Jason is a human cyborg, seriously he’s part robot!! He’s so strong and can take a lot..more than the average human. Darren and I were both born with 12 fingers. Both of us had them cut when we were babies, but we still have the little bump on the side of our hands. We’re a band of mutants lol
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Probably Russell Johnson’s character The Professor, because he’s more my type and he just comes off so debonair.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
I was raised on vinyl. My mother has a huge collection of old records she would play all the time when I was a kid. I definitely have an appreciation for the look and the sound of vinyl.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
I don’t know Justin Bieber like that so I couldn’t say.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
I actually don’t have an opinion on Miley Cyrus, because I don’t know her personally. I just try to stay in my own lane and not focus on what others are doing.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip synching or real vocals?
Real vocals! I can listen to a record from the comfort of my home anytime. If I go out to see a show, I want to see a real show.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
I hope it’s us 🙂
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
I need Stevie Nicks/ Fleetwood Mac in my life, because their music has influenced me so much.
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
I love people but yet I’m terrified of them..
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Anything with Vincent Price or Boris Karloff.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD
I want to thank my Lord & Savior Christ Jesus and all our loyal supporters who continue to support us through the good and bad. We love you!!!!! Xoxo
Categories: General Tags: alexis brown, female singer, Knoxville, metal, MUEN Magazine, rock, tennessee
EMPERORS AND ELEPHANTS sneak peek video!
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The Chicago, IL based band released Devil in the Lake via Pavement Entertainment
in January of 2014. On April 27th they will release a brand new music video
for their single “Change” off of the record and on May 5th the band will
re-release the record with 9 bonus tracks that will include acoustic takes
and demos of the songs you may already know!
For the awesome interview with E&E click <HERE>!
TOUR DATES
April 4, 2015 Moline, IL Rascal's Live April 7, 2015 Macomb, IL The Outskirts w/ Saving Abel April 25, 2015 South Barrington, IL Penny Road Pub June 6, 2015 Frindley, MN Pickle Park w/ Jake E. Lee's Red Dragon Cartel July 18, 2015 Cadott, WI Rock Fest
Categories: General Tags: chicago, EMPERORS AND ELEPHANTS, MUEN Magazine, new release, pavement, randy cooper, Shauna O'Donnell, texas, youtube
KickActs interviews Italy’s “Cyon Project”!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
we are The Cyon Project, we come from Italy, Marco is the vocalist, Fabio the guitarist, Niko the drummer and Mad Mike the bass player; our journey started 5 years ago “in front of a junkyard, in a really smoky car”, if you want to know more listen to the second track of our new album “Tales of Pain” out on January the 27th you can find us at the following links:
website: www.thecyonproject.com
facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Cyon-Project/105009446805
youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TheCyonProject
soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/the-cyon-project
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
We have planty of different influences and heroes, artists like, Queen, Tool, Led Zeppelin, Thin Lizzy, Ennio Morricone, Queens of the Stone Age, Mountain, Pantera… it could probably take a couple of days to name all of our inspirations!
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
We still don’t think to be in the position to give real pieces of advice, although we believe that Artists are too focused on having success and don’t care much about the artistic side of music anymore.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
well, as you’ll listen in the track “Cheesy Song” from our upcoming album, in a certain period someone suggested our singer “stop singing Disco Music!!!”, today we all know he should have never started.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Once we had a concert, we stopped to have a listen to the next band, we got involved in a violent Pogo, after a while we noticed some blood on the ground, we tried to understand where that blood was coming from, Fabio and Mad Mike looked at each other undertanding that both their faces turned into red masks! then in the hospital they started to promote the band with the nurses… funny story.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
Fabio likes to play indi-videogames, Nico’s passion is Reading Books, Mad Mike has too many passions, he has to think about it! Marco’s hobby is collecting old Vinyls and Music.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
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Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
This kind of talent shows changed the conception of music for the audience, they are perfect to make short-life music and artists. as we already said before people has a distorted vision of music. one day you sing at the karaoke, the day after you are a star. music is supposed to be the result of work and sacrifice.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
of course we think it’s a damage for the artist. we are all fans and we think that if you love a band or an artist there’s only one way to take: supporting them.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Nico: He hates Beer. Marco: He attended a “Voice Over” accademy. Mad Mike: His Original Instrument is Saxophone. Fabio: He has a dangerous addiction for gummy bears.
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Yes! Marco collects them. One of his last entry a 1973 Original copy of “Sheer Heart Attack” from Queen.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what? 13-probably we would punch his face as many times as his youtube views
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
She’s a good actress.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
of course always real vocals
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
We are about to tour the UK! that’s quite a big Thing!
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Marco ——– Queen
Fabio ——— Yann Tiersen
Niko ———- Opeth
Mad Mike — Rage Against The Machine
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
No, It’s a Secret!
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Marco —– Back to the Future – for the amount of different emotions in it.
Fabio —— Batman- the dark knight rises because of the soundtrack
Niko ——— K19 beause of the engaging story
Mad Mike — The Snatch because of the amazing cut and characters
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
libertè ègalitè fraternitè !!!
Categories: General Tags: cyon project, italy, metal, MUEN Magazine, Pavement Entertainment inc., rock, Salvatore Addeo, sobandpromos, Stoner, Torino, youtube
Red Line Chemistry gets signed with Pavement Entertainment!
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Kansas City Missouri rockers Red Line Chemistry have just inked a deal with Pavement Entertainment. The first release with this new partnership will be the long awaited official and special edition release of their 2006 album “Chemical High and a Hand Grenade”. The band has also added bonus tracks from their self-released 2007 follow up “Escape Plan” to this special edition.
Originally recorded as the band’s debut album, “Chemical High and a Hand Grenade” was shelved and the band moved forward with new material in the form of “Dying for a Living” (2011), and “Tug of War” (2013).
“We are stoked kick off 2015 announcing our signing and new found home with Pavement Entertainment, affording us the extraordinary opportunity to continue bringing our music to all of our amazing fans who have stood by us through every endeavor. Huge thanks to Mark, Tim, and the Pavement team for bringing us into the family!” says Brett Ditgen.
Slated for a second quarter 2015 release, this re-mixed, re-mastered, and re-invented album represents an unforgettable and long overdue part of the band’s career. Be sure to grab this unique piece of the Red Line Chemistry legacy!
For more information visit:
https://www.facebook.com/redlinechemistry
http://www.reverbnation.com/redlinechemistry
Categories: General Tags: facebook, Kansas City, missouri, MUEN Magazine, Pavement Entertainment, Red Line Chemistry, reverbnation
Emperors and Elephants “MAN OF GOD” (official video)
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To check out their awesome interview hit the link!
http://www.kickacts.com/2014/07/18/kickacts-interviews-randy-cooper-of-emperors-and-elephants/
Here’s an excerpt!
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect
to hear.
Ron Stoppable can build anything with his hands. Jeff Windish is super
smart, and a recording engineer that did a big part of our DEVIL IN THE
LAKE CD. Jason Meudt does all our merch and dog tags. works for Dean
Guitars and does all their filming, is a photographer and did all the art
work and Videos for our record. Jesse is always coming up with new topic
and songs and lyrics and plays guitar too. I’m surrounded by BADASSES!
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up
with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Mary Ann she would be a good partner and Help Mate. Someone to work
together with.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so,
what was it?
All the KISS records on vinyl.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the
first night in his sleep or what?
Try work together and we will see how it goes
Categories: General Tags: chicago, EMPERORS AND ELEPHANTS, MUEN Magazine, new release, pavement, randy cooper, Shauna O'Donnell, texas, youtube
TANTRIC TO RELEASE “BLUE ROOM ARCHIVES” ON SEPTEMBER 30TH
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Alternative rockers Tantric will release a compilation of new, unreleased,
and acoustic material under the title of “Blue Room Archives” on September
30 through Pavement Entertainment.
This new release will follow up 2013’s highly successful 5th studio album
“37 Channels”, and includes acoustic versions of the classic Tantric hits
“Breakdown” and “Mourning”, as well as, the brand new single “Cynical”. A
streaming version of the new single can be heard here: http://goo.gl/uTrTI5
The title for the album comes from Tantric’s home studio “The Blue Room”
where much production work and song writing have taken place over the
band’s extensive career.
Lead vocalist and frontman* Hugo Ferreira *comments: ” This isn’t so much
a premeditated album, but a collection of music I have done that I always
loved extremely but never found a place for. It’s songs in their purest
form, no flashy production or elaborate theme. Imagine it as a mix tape of
songs I wrote or co-wrote that stand alone uniquely. A inside view of the
other side of a tantric state of mind.”
*Please post as a news item. Hugo is also available for interviews!*
“Blue Room Archives” track listing:
1. Cynical
2. Breakdown (Acoustic)
3. Abuse Me
4. Don’t Let It Win
5. Fall To The Ground (Remix)
6. Mind Control (Remix)
7. Mourning (Acoustic)
8. Nothing At All
9. Mourning After
10. Indiscretion
11. Flip A Coin
Categories: General Tags: facebook, kickacts, louisville, MUEN Magazine, music, new release, Pavement Entertainment, tantric
