Tuesday, December 30, 2008
This week's cool shows: New Year's Eve edition!
THIS WEEK'S SHOWS
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Unknown Hinson with Rebel Son, Lincoln Theatre
Unknown Hinson is known mostly for his Squidbillies character and his crazy Nudie-suit vampire look, but he is also a phenomenal guitarist and a class-A songwriter. I'm still not sure how much of Rebel Son's "South will rise again" blue-collar-man-been-put-down schtick is real and how much is a joke. They're a good band, but they often leave me wishing they'd just shut up and play.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Volume 11 4th Annual New Year's Eve Bash featuring Slugnut's 1996 lineup, Volume 11
Long-running local thrash band.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: DJ Sleazy McQueen with The Wusses, The Pinhook
According to The Pinhook's Website, The Wusses are comprised of Dave Cantwell, Dave/ Torch Marauder dude, James Hepler, etc. According to Ross Grady, they're are "dedicated to the deep appreciation of all things Soft/Yacht Rock. " Does that mean we can expect some Loggins and Messina covers? One can only hope.
http://www.trianglerock.com/
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 1: Jason Webley with Billy Sugarfix Local 506
Nurse your splitting head with some sweet tunes by Billy sugarfix.
Friday, Jan. 2: Hellrazor, Volume 11
Check out video from Hellrazor's show last week at Slim's.
Friday, Jan. 2: First Friday art opening for Greg Moliterno with music by The Infamous Sugar, Slim's
North Carolina's bawdiest one-man band.
Saturday, Jan. 3: N.C. Winter Metal Fest, Lincoln Theatre
Featuring Praetorius, Here Lies..., Twisted Tower Dire, Dead Tomorrow, Lunger, Killing Avarice, Worst Than Birth, Hold Back the Day, IV Chambers Broken
Sunday, Jan. 4: Pompeii with Polynya Local 506
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Jan. 8: The Ex-Monkeys with Sonic Death Rabbit The Pour House
the Ex-Monkeys are Ian and Eddie from Friend Side Monkey. I know almost nothing about Sonic Death Rabbit, but judging from their myspace, they're a Charlotte-Los Angeles duo that likes to dress up in costumes and make really funny, catchy music with Game Boys. This one will definitely be worth checking out.
Thursday, Jan. 8: Pink Flag with Death to Details and Extacy the Flower, the Pinhook
Friday, Jan. 9: Hellrazor with Thunderlip Local 506
Friday, Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Secondhand Freespace meet the producers Local 506
Panel discussion on music production with Mitch Easter, Chris Stamey, Rick Miller, Ivan Howard, and moderator Jim Brantley.
Event Facebook page
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Wednesday, Jan. 14: The Bleeding Hearts, The Pour House
This will be the first show in quite a while for Raleigh's angsty, high-school-reliving rockers.
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Friday, Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Friday, Jan 16: Colossus with Freedomhawk, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 17: Kicking Grass with The WhistlestopThe Pour House
The Whistlestop is a must-see alt-country-gospel supergroup with amazing harmonies and thoughtful songs. And I'm serious about the gospel part. They don't preach, but neither do they shy away from their beliefs. If you don't want to hear about Jesus, this show might not be for you. Kicking Grass is exactly what their name implies: high-energy bluegrass.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Friday, Jan. 23: Viper with Taradactyl, Dive Bar
Old-school metal from some pretty young guys. Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Jan. 23: The Rosebuds, with Megafaun and the Love Language, Cat's Cradle
The Rosebuds and Megafaun you know about. The Love Language is a Rosebuds-ish/Arcade Fire-ish Raleigh band who have a CD out on Matt Brown's (former Ashley Stove) label, Bladen County Records.
Friday, Jan. 23: Lutie and Andy's birthday bash with The T's, The Names and Static MindsSlim's
T's bass player Lutie Cain and guitarist Andy Kerr apparently share the same birthday (or at least have birthdays close together), so they're going to celebrate with Static Minds (the newest incarnation of Suburban Sweethearts, with Andy now on guitar) and Ohio Knack/Plimsouls lovers The Names.
Saturday, Jan. 24: Shipwrecker with Erie Choir, the Pinhook
Thursday, Jan. 29: Lollipop Factory, The Virgo 9, Animal, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 31: The Annuals, Cat's Cradle
Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31: Raleigh Undercover, Tir na Nog
Your favorite Raleigh bands pay tribute to influences, serious and otherwise, in this two-day festival.
Friday, Jan. 30: Schooner with Kingsbury Manx, the Pinhook
Also on this bill, from The Pinhook's Web site: DJ dance party til the end of the night (we'll be bringing a bunch of lights and smoke machine and fun stuff to get the dance party vibe right!)
Friday, Jan. 30: The Dry Heathens with The Loners and The Homewreckers, the Pinhook
Friday, Feb. 28: North Elementary CD-release party with The Whalewatchers and Sir Arthur & the Royal Knights, The Pour House
The Perm and Skullet becomes Artificial Amnesiac
Hopefully this means they'll start blogging on a regular basis again:
http://artificialamnesiac.wordpress.com/
http://artificialamnesiac.wordpress.com/
Monday, December 29, 2008
Videos of Colossus and Hellrazor
(Hellrazor)
I've been hearing great things about Hellrazor, and their show Saturday at Slim's didn't disappoint. They're thrasy, old school metal with nods to Megadeth and Anthrax. Check out the video below for "The Pawn."
Hellrazor from Mann's World on Vimeo. Colossus, of course, is straight-up NWOBHM, which they understand inside and out. They had a new song, the concept of which had something to do with a dead whale, called "A Year Later There's Still Meat in the Skull," or something like that. Unfortunately I didn't capture that particular opus. Instead I got their themesong ("Colossus"), and also got it from a bad angle because the show was PACKED.
Colossus from Mann's World on Vimeo. Also, check out more photos from the show.
Hellrazor from Mann's World on Vimeo. Colossus, of course, is straight-up NWOBHM, which they understand inside and out. They had a new song, the concept of which had something to do with a dead whale, called "A Year Later There's Still Meat in the Skull," or something like that. Unfortunately I didn't capture that particular opus. Instead I got their themesong ("Colossus"), and also got it from a bad angle because the show was PACKED.
Colossus from Mann's World on Vimeo. Also, check out more photos from the show.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
This week's cool shows: Christmas edition!
(Colossus, photo by Betsy Harris)
THIS WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Saturday, Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Taradactyl, the Brewery
Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Monty Warren & the Friggin' Whatevers with Black River and Crap Rock All-Stars, The Pour House
Despite their name, Greensboro's indie-popsters Crap Rock All-Stars are actually pretty damn good.
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Unknown Hinson with Rebel Son, Lincoln Theatre
Unknown Hinson is known mostly for his Squidbillies character and his crazy Nudie-suit vampire look, but he is also a phenomenal guitarist and a class-A songwriter. I'm still not sure how much of Rebel Son's "South will rise again" blue-collar-man-been-put-down schtick is real and how much is a joke. They're a good band, but they often leave me wishing they'd just shut up and play.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Volume 11 4th Annual New Year's Eve Bash featuring Slugnut's 1996 lineup, Volume 11
Long-running local thrash band.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: DJ Sleazy McQueen with The Wusses, The Pinhook
According to The Pinhook's Website, The Wusses are comprised of Dave Cantwell, Dave/ Torch Marauder dude, James Hepler, etc.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 1: Jason Webley with Billy Sugarfix Local 506
Nurse your splitting head with some sweet tunes by Billy sugarfix.
Friday, Jan. 2: Hellrazor, Volume 11
Saturday, Jan. 3: N.C. Winter Metal Fest, Lincoln Theatre
Featuring Praetorius, Here Lies..., Twisted Tower Dire, Dead Tomorrow, Lunger, Killing Avarice, Worst Than Birth, Hold Back the Day, IV Chambers Broken
Sunday, Jan. 4: Pompeii with Polynya Local 506
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Thursday, Jan. 8: The Ex-Monkeys with Sonic Death Rabbit The Pour House
the Ex-Monkeys are Ian and Eddie from Friend Side Monkey. I know almost nothing about Sonic Death Rabbit, but judging from their myspace, they're a Charlotte-Los Angeles duo that likes to dress up in costumes and make really funny, catchy music with Game Boys. This one will definitely be worth checking out.
Thursday, Jan. 8: Pink Flag with Death to Details and Extacy the Flower, the Pinhook
Friday, Jan. 9: Hellrazor with Thunderlip Local 506
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Secondhand Freespace meet the producers Local 506
Panel discussion on music production with Mitch Easter, Chris Stamey, Rick Miller, Ivan Howard, and moderator Jim Brantley.
Event Facebook page
Wednesday, Jan. 14: The Bleeding Hearts, The Pour House
This will be the first show in quite a while for Raleigh's angsty, high-school-reliving rockers.
Friday, Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Friday, Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Friday, Jan 16: Colossus with Freedomhawk, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 17: Kicking Grass with The WhistlestopThe Pour House
The Whistlestop is a must-see alt-country-gospel supergroup with amazing harmonies and thoughtful songs. And I'm serious about the gospel part. They don't preach, but neither do they shy away from their beliefs. If you don't want to hear about Jesus, this show might not be for you. Kicking Grass is exactly what their name implies: high-energy bluegrass.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Friday, Jan. 23: Viper with Taradactyl, Dive Bar
Old-school metal from some pretty young guys. Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Jan. 23: The Rosebuds, with Megafaun and the Love Language, Cat's Cradle
The Rosebuds and Megafaun you know about. The Love Language is a Rosebuds-ish/Arcade Fire-ish Raleigh band who have a CD out on Matt Brown's (former Ashley Stove) label, Bladen County Records.
Friday, Jan. 23: Lutie and Andy's birthday bash with The T's, The Names and Static MindsSlim's
T's bass player Lutie Cain and guitarist Andy Kerr apparently share the same birthday (or at least have birthdays close together), so they're going to celebrate with Static Minds (the newest incarnation of Suburban Sweethearts, with Andy now on guitar) and Ohio Knack/Plimsouls lovers The Names.
Saturday, Jan. 24: Shipwrecker with Erie Choir, the Pinhook
Thursday, Jan. 29: Lollipop Factory, The Virgo 9, Animal, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 31: The Annuals, Cat's Cradle
Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31: Raleigh Undercover, Tir na Nog
Your favorite Raleigh bands pay tribute to influences, serious and otherwise, in this two-day festival.
Friday, Jan. 30: Schooner with Kingsbury Manx, the Pinhook
Also on this bill, from The Pinhook's Web site: DJ dance party til the end of the night (we'll be bringing a bunch of lights and smoke machine and fun stuff to get the dance party vibe right!)
Friday, Jan. 30: The Dry Heathens with The Loners and The Homewreckers, the Pinhook
Friday, Feb. 28: North Elementary CD-release party with The Whalewatchers and Sir Arthur & the Royal Knights, The Pour House
Monday, December 22, 2008
So, if you don't like Candlebox, who WOULD you pick?
If you read the local music blogs, then by now you're aware that Candlebox is scheduled to be the first performer in the Downtown Live series on May 30. David Menconi broke the news, and Triangle Music commented accordingly.
I've been mulling over what to say about this news. I, too, feel the disappointed resignation that comes with knowing that the organizers of this potentially great series seem absolutely determined to resurrect every lame one-hit wonder from the era of 1988 - 1998. But the unfortunate fact is this: This series is successful. Every Downtown Live show I've been to has been packed. There are a LOT of people out there with bad taste in music. And I have to tip my hat Deep South for putting some really good local bands on these bills. That's great exposure for local bands, and just might inspire who think Candlebox is great to listen to some new stuff.
It also occurred to me that there is probably a whole lot I don't understand about putting on a free music series -- especially one that is sponsored by the city. Since the organizers aren't going to make money from ticket sales, they probably have to pick bands that are slightly cheaper. Based on the size of the space, I would think that Drive-by Truckers or Queens of the Stone Age would be good choices. Pretty much any band that can fill Lincoln Theatre, Cat's Cradle would be a good choice. But I'm going to guess that DBT's or QOTSA's guarantees are much higher than Candlebox's.
So, here's what I'm proposing: Instead of complaining about how lame Downtown Live is, a group of us should get together and sponsor our own downtown series. We'll start small -- maybe with three concerts next summer. We'll bring in some good, mid-level national acts, and have local bands open up. Maybe we can get a rock act, an alt-country act, and a hip hop act. We'll get local sponsors to pay to advertise at the event. We can check into holding these concerts in Moore Square or perhaps look into closing off Hargett Street for the day. I'm up for doing something like this. Who's with me?
I've been mulling over what to say about this news. I, too, feel the disappointed resignation that comes with knowing that the organizers of this potentially great series seem absolutely determined to resurrect every lame one-hit wonder from the era of 1988 - 1998. But the unfortunate fact is this: This series is successful. Every Downtown Live show I've been to has been packed. There are a LOT of people out there with bad taste in music. And I have to tip my hat Deep South for putting some really good local bands on these bills. That's great exposure for local bands, and just might inspire who think Candlebox is great to listen to some new stuff.
It also occurred to me that there is probably a whole lot I don't understand about putting on a free music series -- especially one that is sponsored by the city. Since the organizers aren't going to make money from ticket sales, they probably have to pick bands that are slightly cheaper. Based on the size of the space, I would think that Drive-by Truckers or Queens of the Stone Age would be good choices. Pretty much any band that can fill Lincoln Theatre, Cat's Cradle would be a good choice. But I'm going to guess that DBT's or QOTSA's guarantees are much higher than Candlebox's.
So, here's what I'm proposing: Instead of complaining about how lame Downtown Live is, a group of us should get together and sponsor our own downtown series. We'll start small -- maybe with three concerts next summer. We'll bring in some good, mid-level national acts, and have local bands open up. Maybe we can get a rock act, an alt-country act, and a hip hop act. We'll get local sponsors to pay to advertise at the event. We can check into holding these concerts in Moore Square or perhaps look into closing off Hargett Street for the day. I'm up for doing something like this. Who's with me?
Thursday, December 18, 2008
This week's cool shows: Ivan Howard and Reid Johnson, Horseback and more!
THIS WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 18: The Left Outlet with Dirty Little Heaters and Savage Knights, The Pour House
I don't think you can get a show that's more all-over-the-map than this one. Dirty Little Heaters, featuring Reese McHenry's powerful, Joplin-esque voice and raging mad lyrics, are the reason you should go to this show. I can handle swirly prog rockers Left Outlet in small doses if I don't have to watch them. Savage Knights is a collection of local improv stars, including Crowmeat Bob, Brian Donohoe and Chris Eubank, so there's no telling what they'll sound like.
Thursday, Dec. 18: Jack Rose with Horseback, Nightlight
Horseback is a drony, atmospheric one-man band whose music really does need to be on the soundtrack to some noirish Western. Philadelphia's Jack Rose is an indie-folk guitarist who has been compared to John Fahey.
The event's facebook page
Friday, Dec. 19: Chatham County Line Holiday Ho Down, The Pour House
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Friday, Dec. 19: Ivan Howard and Reid Johnson, Rebus Works
Two of the forces behind The Flute Flies (and The Rosebuds and Schooner) team up for an early show at Rebus Works. Looks like there's going to be a lot of great art as well with proceeds benefitting the Interfaith Food Shuttle
Event page on Facebook
Friday, Dec. 19: Proof with Black River and The Ghost of Saturday Nite, Slim's
Black River have kind of made a habit of playing with The Ghost of Saturday Nite, which is a little strange since the bands sound nothing like each other. Black River sounds a good bit like The Cartridge Family, the band it spun off from, while GOSN has a brash, intelligent punk sound. Proof are straight-ahead indie rock.
Friday, Dec. 19: Black Skies with HOW, Dive Bar
Friday, Dec. 19: Tender Fruit with Midtown Dickens and The Beast, The Pinhook
Saturday, Dec. 20: Scott Phillips, Royal Bean Coffeehouse Scott is the singer/keyboard player for Goner. For this show, he's performing two sets solo (8 and 9 p.m.), but with guest appearances by the following folks: Anne Polesnak (from Physics Of Meaning) on cello Brian Donohoe (from Starmount) on drums David Morris on tuba David Mueller (from Birds Of Avalon) on guitar Greg Elkins (from Starmount) on pedal steel Royal Bean Coffeehouse is across from Meredith College in Raleigh.
Saturday, Dec. 20: Evil Wiener Christmas show, The Cave
Saturday, Dec. 20: Pinche Gringo with Chrome Plated Apostles, Local 506
Dirty Little Heaters were on this bill, but now it's Chrome Plated Apostles, a raw, loud and dirty ensemble that grew out of The Bad Checks, one of this area's original raw, loud and dirty groups.
Saturday,Dec. 20: Patty Hurst Shifter, Slim's
Saturday,Dec. 20: Greg Humphreys, 40 Acres House Concert
House concert featuring the former Dillon Fence/Hobex frontman.
Facebook page
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
Saturday, Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Taradactyl, the Brewery
Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Monty Warren & the Friggin' Whatevers with Black River and Crap Rock All-Stars, The Pour House
Despite their name, Greensboro's indie-popsters Crap Rock All-Stars are actually pretty damn good.
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Unknown Hinson with Rebel Son, Lincoln Theatre
Unknown Hinson is known mostly for his Squidbillies character and his crazy Nudie-suit vampire look, but he is also a phenomenal guitarist and a class-A songwriter. I'm still not sure how much of Rebel Son's "South will rise again" blue-collar-man-been-put-down schtick is real and how much is a joke. They're a good band, but they often leave me wishing they'd just shut up and play.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Volume 11 4th Annual New Year's Eve Bash featuring Slugnut's 1996 lineup, Volume 11
Long-running local thrash band.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: DJ Sleazy McQueen with The Wusses, The Pinhook
According to The Pinhook's Website, The Wusses are comprised of Dave Cantwell, Dave/ Torch Marauder dude, James Hepler, etc.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 1: Jason Webley with Billy Sugarfix Local 506
Nurse your splitting head with some sweet tunes by Billy sugarfix.
Friday, Jan. 2: Hellrazor, Volume 11
Saturday, Jan. 3: N.C. Winter Metal Fest, Lincoln Theatre
Featuring Praetorius, Here Lies..., Twisted Tower Dire, Dead Tomorrow, Lunger, Killing Avarice, Worst Than Birth, Hold Back the Day, IV Chambers Broken
Sunday, Jan. 4: Pompeii with Polynya Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 8: The Ex-Monkeys with Sonic Death Rabbit The Pour House
the Ex-Monkeys are Ian and Eddie from Friend Side Monkey. I know almost nothing about Sonic Death Rabbit, but judging from their myspace, they're a Charlotte-Los Angeles duo that likes to dress up in costumes and make really funny, catchy music with Game Boys. This one will definitely be worth checking out.
Thursday, Jan. 8: Pink Flag with Death to Details and Extacy the Flower, the Pinhook
Friday, Jan. 9: Hellrazor with Thunderlip Local 506
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Secondhand Freespace meet the producers Local 506
Panel discussion on music production with Mitch Easter, Chris Stamey, Rick Miller, Ivan Howard, and moderator Jim Brantley.
Event Facebook page
Wednesday, Jan. 14: The Bleeding Hearts, The Pour House
This will be the first show in quite a while for Raleigh's angsty, high-school-reliving rockers.
Friday, Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Friday, Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Friday, Jan 16: Colossus with Freedomhawk, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 17: Kicking Grass with The WhistlestopThe Pour House
The Whistlestop is a must-see alt-country-gospel supergroup with amazing harmonies and thoughtful songs. And I'm serious about the gospel part. They don't preach, but neither do they shy away from their beliefs. If you don't want to hear about Jesus, this show might not be for you. Kicking Grass is exactly what their name implies: high-energy bluegrass.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Friday, Jan. 23: Viper with Taradactyl, Dive Bar
Old-school metal from some pretty young guys. Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Jan. 23: The Rosebuds, with Megafaun and the Love Language, Cat's Cradle
The Rosebuds and Megafaun you know about. The Love Language is a Rosebuds-ish/Arcade Fire-ish Raleigh band who have a CD out on Matt Brown's (former Ashley Stove) label, Bladen County Records.
Friday, Jan. 23: Lutie and Andy's birthday bash with The T's, The Names and Static MindsSlim's
T's bass player Lutie Cain and guitarist Andy Kerr apparently share the same birthday (or at least have birthdays close together), so they're going to celebrate with Static Minds (the newest incarnation of Suburban Sweethearts, with Andy now on guitar) and Ohio Knack/Plimsouls lovers The Names.
Saturday, Jan. 24: Shipwrecker with Erie Choir, the Pinhook
Thursday, Jan. 29: Lollipop Factory, The Virgo 9, Animal, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 31: The Annuals, Cat's Cradle
Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31: Raleigh Undercover, Tir na Nog
Your favorite Raleigh bands pay tribute to influences, serious and otherwise, in this two-day festival.
Friday, Jan. 30: Schooner with Kingsbury Manx, the Pinhook
Also on this bill, from The Pinhook's Web site: DJ dance party til the end of the night (we'll be bringing a bunch of lights and smoke machine and fun stuff to get the dance party vibe right!)
Friday, Jan. 30: The Dry Heathens with The Loners and The Homewreckers, the Pinhook
Friday, Feb. 28: North Elementary CD-release party with The Whalewatchers and Sir Arthur & the Royal Knights, The Pour House
Thursday, Dec. 18: The Left Outlet with Dirty Little Heaters and Savage Knights, The Pour House
I don't think you can get a show that's more all-over-the-map than this one. Dirty Little Heaters, featuring Reese McHenry's powerful, Joplin-esque voice and raging mad lyrics, are the reason you should go to this show. I can handle swirly prog rockers Left Outlet in small doses if I don't have to watch them. Savage Knights is a collection of local improv stars, including Crowmeat Bob, Brian Donohoe and Chris Eubank, so there's no telling what they'll sound like.
Thursday, Dec. 18: Jack Rose with Horseback, Nightlight
Horseback is a drony, atmospheric one-man band whose music really does need to be on the soundtrack to some noirish Western. Philadelphia's Jack Rose is an indie-folk guitarist who has been compared to John Fahey.
The event's facebook page
Friday, Dec. 19: Chatham County Line Holiday Ho Down, The Pour House
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Friday, Dec. 19: Ivan Howard and Reid Johnson, Rebus Works
Two of the forces behind The Flute Flies (and The Rosebuds and Schooner) team up for an early show at Rebus Works. Looks like there's going to be a lot of great art as well with proceeds benefitting the Interfaith Food Shuttle
Event page on Facebook
Friday, Dec. 19: Proof with Black River and The Ghost of Saturday Nite, Slim's
Black River have kind of made a habit of playing with The Ghost of Saturday Nite, which is a little strange since the bands sound nothing like each other. Black River sounds a good bit like The Cartridge Family, the band it spun off from, while GOSN has a brash, intelligent punk sound. Proof are straight-ahead indie rock.
Friday, Dec. 19: Black Skies with HOW, Dive Bar
Friday, Dec. 19: Tender Fruit with Midtown Dickens and The Beast, The Pinhook
Saturday, Dec. 20: Scott Phillips, Royal Bean Coffeehouse Scott is the singer/keyboard player for Goner. For this show, he's performing two sets solo (8 and 9 p.m.), but with guest appearances by the following folks: Anne Polesnak (from Physics Of Meaning) on cello Brian Donohoe (from Starmount) on drums David Morris on tuba David Mueller (from Birds Of Avalon) on guitar Greg Elkins (from Starmount) on pedal steel Royal Bean Coffeehouse is across from Meredith College in Raleigh.
Saturday, Dec. 20: Evil Wiener Christmas show, The Cave
Saturday, Dec. 20: Pinche Gringo with Chrome Plated Apostles, Local 506
Dirty Little Heaters were on this bill, but now it's Chrome Plated Apostles, a raw, loud and dirty ensemble that grew out of The Bad Checks, one of this area's original raw, loud and dirty groups.
Saturday,Dec. 20: Patty Hurst Shifter, Slim's
Saturday,Dec. 20: Greg Humphreys, 40 Acres House Concert
House concert featuring the former Dillon Fence/Hobex frontman.
Facebook page
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
Saturday, Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Taradactyl, the Brewery
Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Dec. 27: Monty Warren & the Friggin' Whatevers with Black River and Crap Rock All-Stars, The Pour House
Despite their name, Greensboro's indie-popsters Crap Rock All-Stars are actually pretty damn good.
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Unknown Hinson with Rebel Son, Lincoln Theatre
Unknown Hinson is known mostly for his Squidbillies character and his crazy Nudie-suit vampire look, but he is also a phenomenal guitarist and a class-A songwriter. I'm still not sure how much of Rebel Son's "South will rise again" blue-collar-man-been-put-down schtick is real and how much is a joke. They're a good band, but they often leave me wishing they'd just shut up and play.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Volume 11 4th Annual New Year's Eve Bash featuring Slugnut's 1996 lineup, Volume 11
Long-running local thrash band.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: DJ Sleazy McQueen with The Wusses, The Pinhook
According to The Pinhook's Website, The Wusses are comprised of Dave Cantwell, Dave/ Torch Marauder dude, James Hepler, etc.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 1: Jason Webley with Billy Sugarfix Local 506
Nurse your splitting head with some sweet tunes by Billy sugarfix.
Friday, Jan. 2: Hellrazor, Volume 11
Saturday, Jan. 3: N.C. Winter Metal Fest, Lincoln Theatre
Featuring Praetorius, Here Lies..., Twisted Tower Dire, Dead Tomorrow, Lunger, Killing Avarice, Worst Than Birth, Hold Back the Day, IV Chambers Broken
Sunday, Jan. 4: Pompeii with Polynya Local 506
Thursday, Jan. 8: The Ex-Monkeys with Sonic Death Rabbit The Pour House
the Ex-Monkeys are Ian and Eddie from Friend Side Monkey. I know almost nothing about Sonic Death Rabbit, but judging from their myspace, they're a Charlotte-Los Angeles duo that likes to dress up in costumes and make really funny, catchy music with Game Boys. This one will definitely be worth checking out.
Thursday, Jan. 8: Pink Flag with Death to Details and Extacy the Flower, the Pinhook
Friday, Jan. 9: Hellrazor with Thunderlip Local 506
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Secondhand Freespace meet the producers Local 506
Panel discussion on music production with Mitch Easter, Chris Stamey, Rick Miller, Ivan Howard, and moderator Jim Brantley.
Event Facebook page
Wednesday, Jan. 14: The Bleeding Hearts, The Pour House
This will be the first show in quite a while for Raleigh's angsty, high-school-reliving rockers.
Friday, Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Wednesday, Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Friday, Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Friday, Jan 16: Colossus with Freedomhawk, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 17: Kicking Grass with The WhistlestopThe Pour House
The Whistlestop is a must-see alt-country-gospel supergroup with amazing harmonies and thoughtful songs. And I'm serious about the gospel part. They don't preach, but neither do they shy away from their beliefs. If you don't want to hear about Jesus, this show might not be for you. Kicking Grass is exactly what their name implies: high-energy bluegrass.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Friday, Jan. 23: Viper with Taradactyl, Dive Bar
Old-school metal from some pretty young guys. Taradactyl are an Emerald Isle synth-metal group that wears Mexican wrestling masks on stage.
Saturday, Jan. 23: The Rosebuds, with Megafaun and the Love Language, Cat's Cradle
The Rosebuds and Megafaun you know about. The Love Language is a Rosebuds-ish/Arcade Fire-ish Raleigh band who have a CD out on Matt Brown's (former Ashley Stove) label, Bladen County Records.
Friday, Jan. 23: Lutie and Andy's birthday bash with The T's, The Names and Static MindsSlim's
T's bass player Lutie Cain and guitarist Andy Kerr apparently share the same birthday (or at least have birthdays close together), so they're going to celebrate with Static Minds (the newest incarnation of Suburban Sweethearts, with Andy now on guitar) and Ohio Knack/Plimsouls lovers The Names.
Saturday, Jan. 24: Shipwrecker with Erie Choir, the Pinhook
Thursday, Jan. 29: Lollipop Factory, The Virgo 9, Animal, The Reservoir
Saturday, Jan. 31: The Annuals, Cat's Cradle
Friday and Saturday, Jan. 30 and 31: Raleigh Undercover, Tir na Nog
Your favorite Raleigh bands pay tribute to influences, serious and otherwise, in this two-day festival.
Friday, Jan. 30: Schooner with Kingsbury Manx, the Pinhook
Also on this bill, from The Pinhook's Web site: DJ dance party til the end of the night (we'll be bringing a bunch of lights and smoke machine and fun stuff to get the dance party vibe right!)
Friday, Jan. 30: The Dry Heathens with The Loners and The Homewreckers, the Pinhook
Friday, Feb. 28: North Elementary CD-release party with The Whalewatchers and Sir Arthur & the Royal Knights, The Pour House
A new (old) Superchunk release
Just got this from Merge:
On January 13, 2009, Superchunk will release the fourth volume in their Clambakes series: Superchunk -- The Clambakes Vol 4 -- Sur La Bouche -- Live in Montreal 1993.
Recorded on a cold March night at the club Backstreet by Howard Bilerman (later of the Arcade Fire and current engineer and operator of Hotel 2 Tango Studios in Montreal), Sur La Bouche captures Superchunk in the midst of touring for On the Mouth, out on Matador a few months previous. The sound is not pristine -- guitars and drums are cranked and overload the tape occasionally -- but the energy of the night is definitely captured and after all, it's a bootleg! Howard even dug up the flyer from the show from the depths of his archives.
Available for digital download exclusively from the Merge digital store, Clambakes Vol 4 will also be sent for free to all subscribers to the SCORE! Merge 20th Anniversary Box Set as the first of many archival downloads Merge will make available to SCORE! subscribers throughout 2009.
Superchunk -- The Clambakes Vol 4 -- Sur La Bouche -- Live in Montreal 1993 will be exclusively available as a digital download in the Merge store on January 13, 2009.
The Indy's Year in Music
In case you haven't seen this yet, the Independent has released its list of the top 40 local tracks of the year. Some interesting choices here; some I agree with, some I don't, some I've never heard of. Best of all, you can download whatever you like, or grab them all in a zip file.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
1982 R.E.M. concert from The Pier on Youtube
Thanks to music.mync.com for posting this. Apparently someone has uploaded a series of videos from R.E.M.'s Oct. 10, 1982 concert at The Pier in Raleigh. I wasn't at that show (I first saw them with The Minutemen at the old Raleigh Civic Center in Dec. of 1985), but I'm sure some other old-timers reading this were there. Here's the set on youtube.
Avetts to open for Dave Matthews in April
OK, this post from Paste Magazine is mostly about Dave Matthews, and you know I really couldn't care less about him, but if you read a little further, it says the Avett Brothers are playing several shows on the upcoming tour, including one at the Time Warner Cable Pavilion (that's Walnut Creek to us old-schoolers)on April 22.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Signalfest Final Fridays
Got this as part of the Signalfest group on Facebook:
The end of 2008 is almost here and we're gearing up for Signal 2009 this April.
We're also starting a monthly at the Local 506 called Final Fridays. It will feature a variety of DJs that will get your ass shakin'. This month we have OneDuran, Kid Kameleon, and DJ ShortRound.
Here are the event details
We hope to see you there this month and the last Friday of every month.
The end of 2008 is almost here and we're gearing up for Signal 2009 this April.
We're also starting a monthly at the Local 506 called Final Fridays. It will feature a variety of DJs that will get your ass shakin'. This month we have OneDuran, Kid Kameleon, and DJ ShortRound.
Here are the event details
We hope to see you there this month and the last Friday of every month.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Catching up from the weekend: CyTunes party
After months of hard work, CyTunes finally launched at midnight Friday. Later that evening, the volunteers held a launch party at Local 506 with The Magic Babies and The Flute Flies, which is a band put together by Ivan from The Rosebuds and several members of Schooner just for the CyTunes project. Flute Flies performed a couple of originals and some covers from their other bands. Here are a couple of videos by them.
Another one by Flute Flies from Mann's World on Vimeo.
The Flute Flies from Mann's World on Vimeo. The Magic Babies opened the show.
Magic Babies at Cy-Tunes launch from Mann's World on Vimeo. For more info on CyTunes and the launch party, check out the article I wrote for pastemagazine.com.
Another one by Flute Flies from Mann's World on Vimeo.
The Flute Flies from Mann's World on Vimeo. The Magic Babies opened the show.
Magic Babies at Cy-Tunes launch from Mann's World on Vimeo. For more info on CyTunes and the launch party, check out the article I wrote for pastemagazine.com.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
So, I finally get to see Citified ...
And of course they have technical difficulties. Apparently there was some sort of guitar issue that led to a 10-minute adjustment period between the first and second songs. I still thought they sounded great, but the band was less than thrilled with their performance. I'm also agreeing more and more with a friend who thinks they have a heavy Interpol influence. Here's Citified from Thursday night at Tir Na Nog.
Citified from Mann's World on Vimeo. Animal Music opened up. Check out their video below.
Animal at Tir na Nog from Mann's World on Vimeo.
Citified from Mann's World on Vimeo. Animal Music opened up. Check out their video below.
Animal at Tir na Nog from Mann's World on Vimeo.
Friday, December 12, 2008
CyTunes is launched!
And apparently the first song sold on the site was one by my old band. And no, I wasn't the one who bought it! Congrats to everyone who worked on CyTunes. It looks awesome, and I can't wait to see The Magic Babies and Flute Flies at the launch party tonight at Local 506. Now, it's time to so some shopping!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Opening in January: The Remedy
There's lots of excitement brewing over The Remedy, a new restaurant by Double Negative guitarist Scott Williams and his girlfriend, Angie Holder, that's scheduled to open in the old Roly Poly spot near The Landmark in Raleigh.
According to Angie, the restaurant should open in January, and the menu will consist mostly of sandwiches, including 10 veggie and 10 non-veggie. Originally the restaurant was to be a diner, but the city wanted them to vent the hood through the roof, which would have cost an extra $40k. As for bands, that's something the couple would love to do eventually.
"We would love to have bands, but it is teeny-tiny in there! It only seats about 30 people (and that includes the barstools). I'm sure that if we can figure out a way to do it, we will eventually," she told me. Holder and Williams have rented an empty lot behind the building and hope to turn that into a big patio.
According to Angie, the restaurant should open in January, and the menu will consist mostly of sandwiches, including 10 veggie and 10 non-veggie. Originally the restaurant was to be a diner, but the city wanted them to vent the hood through the roof, which would have cost an extra $40k. As for bands, that's something the couple would love to do eventually.
"We would love to have bands, but it is teeny-tiny in there! It only seats about 30 people (and that includes the barstools). I'm sure that if we can figure out a way to do it, we will eventually," she told me. Holder and Williams have rented an empty lot behind the building and hope to turn that into a big patio.
Rock 'n' Shop Market this Saturday
New Raleigh has a nice guide to the vendors at this Saturday's Rock
'n' Shop at Tir na Nog, which will also include music by The
Whistlestop!
'n' Shop at Tir na Nog, which will also include music by The
Whistlestop!
Check it out: http://www.newraleigh.com/articles/archive/rock-shop-market-guide/
For fans of Randy Ward
Randy was one of the creative forces behind my favorite band ever to emerge from North Carolina: Metal Flake Mother. Today I found a Facebook fan page in his honor. If you loved Metal Flake Mother, Family Dollar Pharaohs or Randy's solo work, join the group!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Sad news about Lisa Cooper
David Menconi has the details on his blog about former Picasso Trigger guitarist Lisa Cooper, who died Sunday of lung cancer.
I hadn't seen Lisa in years, but I remember her as one of the roughest, most bad-ass guitar players I've ever seen. She was an inspiration to me as a female player and as a musician. And she was super cool. She will be missed.
UPDATE: Check out the video for Queenie, shot by Craig Zearfoss back in 1993!
This week's cool shows: CyTunes launch and more!
THIS WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 11: Animal Music with Citified, Tir na Nog
I keep comparing Citified to The Smiths. A friend of mine who is fanatical about them thinks they sound more like early R.E.M. Either way, they sound great.
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Friday, Dec. 12: CyTunes launch party, Local 506
After months of hard work, Cy-Tunes is finally launching with a big FREE party this Friday, Dec. 12, at Local 506. Here's the line-up:
SuperCy Trivia (Cy was a big fan of trivia nights)
Emcee Trent Bowles of Popular Kids
DJ Viva
The Magic Babies
Flute Flies featuring Ivan Rosebud, Reid Schooner, and Zeno Pox
Rockin' Ammonia Karaoke
Here's also some info from Reid Johnson on the Flute Flies:
The Flute Flies is the brainchild of Ivan Howard (The Rosebuds), Zeno Gill (The Sames, Pox World Empire) and Reid Johnson (Schooner). The group was created in the summer of 2008 specifically for CyTunes.org, a site created to help their good friend Cy Rawls with his hospital bills while he fought cancer. In Cy's memory CyTunes has continued on with him as the inspiration, with the motto "Download Music, Downsize Cancer." The Flute Flies are playing the "CyTunes.org Launch Party" at the Local 506 in Chapel Hill on Friday, December 12. After this keep in touch, and go to the website to download as much music as you can.
Billy Alphin and Wes Phillips will be helping us out live at the Party, which is our maiden appearance.
Friday, Dec. 12: Old Habits Mayhem Holiday Bash, The Pour House Saturday, Dec. 13: Cool John Ferguson, Slim's This is an unusual, but very welcome booking for Slim's. Cool John (based in Beaufort, S.C.) is a true electric blues legend, and this is a great opportunity to see him up close and personal.
Saturday, Dec. 13: The Strugglers with The Pnerotics, The Pinhook
Saturday, Dec. 13: Nikki Meets the Hibachi (Early); Dirty Little Heaters with The Loners (late), The Cave
The early show (Nikki) is the return of one of the most beloved local bands of the late '80s/early '90s. The late show features two of the most beloved bands in the area right now.
Dec. 14: Birds of Avalon with The T's, Richard Bacchus and the Luckiest Girls and The Loners, Lincoln Theatre
Whoa, this is essentially a who's who of Raleigh rock right here. It will be great to see all of these bands on a big stage.
Sunday, Dec. 14: An Acoustic Evening with Kenny Roby and Django Haskins, The Pour House Solo sets from two of the most amazing singer-songwriters in the area.
Monday, Dec. 15: Trekky Records presents Christmas at the Cradle With the Trekky Yuletide Orchestra, which now has its own CD.
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Saturday, Dec. 19: Chatham County Line Holiday Ho Down, The Pour House
Saturday, Dec. 19: Black Skies with HOW, Dive Bar
Saturday, Dec. 19: Tender Fruit with Midtown Dickens and The Beast, The Pinhook
Sunday, Dec. 20: Scott Phillips, Royal Bean Coffeehouse Scott is the singer/keyboard player for Goner. For this show, he's performing two sets solo (8 and 9 p.m.), but with guest appearances by the following folks: Anne Polesnak (from Physics Of Meaning) on cello Brian Donohoe (from Starmount) on drums David Morris on tuba David Mueller (from Birds Of Avalon) on guitar Greg Elkins (from Starmount) on pedal steel Royal Bean Coffeehouse is across from Meredith College in Raleigh.
Sunday, Dec. 20: Evil Wiener Christmas show, The Cave
Sunday, Dec. 20: Pinche Gringo with Dirty Little Heaters, Local 506
Dec. 20: Patty Hurst Shifter, Slim's
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: DJ Sleazy McQueen with The Wusses
According to The Pinhook's Website, The Wusses are Comprised of Dave Cantwell, Dave/ Torch Marauder dude, James Hepler, etc.
http://thepinhook.com
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach.
CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs. Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Monday, December 08, 2008
Vote for Black Skies
From a Myspace bulletin:
Vote for Black Skies to win Best New Band of 2008 on Total Rock Radio. Since our songs have been played this year on total rock radio's show called New World Order, we qualify for the contest.
On Monday December 22nd 8-10pm (UK time) it will feature the 20 Best New Bands of 2008. But this time, instead of TotalRock DJs Tina & Thekla picking the playlist - you choose.
To vote for us to be featured on the show and to get our track played, send them an email to: newworldorderradio@googlemail.com with the subject, "NWO 2008 Black Skies" and whatever pleading message you want to include in the body, by 9am (UK time) on Thursday , December 18th.
And don't forget to tune in to the show to see whether we win! Mon 22nd Dec (8-10pm UK time) at http://www. totalrock. com
Vote for Black Skies to win Best New Band of 2008 on Total Rock Radio. Since our songs have been played this year on total rock radio's show called New World Order, we qualify for the contest.
On Monday December 22nd 8-10pm (UK time) it will feature the 20 Best New Bands of 2008. But this time, instead of TotalRock DJs Tina & Thekla picking the playlist - you choose.
To vote for us to be featured on the show and to get our track played, send them an email to: newworldorderradio@googlemail.com with the subject, "NWO 2008 Black Skies" and whatever pleading message you want to include in the body, by 9am (UK time) on Thursday , December 18th.
And don't forget to tune in to the show to see whether we win! Mon 22nd Dec (8-10pm UK time) at http://www. totalrock. com
Cy-Tunes launch party this Friday!
After months of hard work, Cy-Tunes is finally launching with a big FREE party this Friday, Dec. 12, at Local 506. Here's the line-up:
SuperCy Trivia (Cy was a big fan of trivia nights)
Emcee Trent Bowles of Popular Kids
DJ Viva
The Magic Babies
Flute Flies featuring Ivan Rosebud, Reid Schooner, and Zeno Pox
Rockin' Ammonia Karaoke
Here's also some info from Reid Johnson on the Flute Flies:
The Flute Flies is the brainchild of Ivan Howard (The Rosebuds), Zeno Gill (The Sames, Pox World Empire) and Reid Johnson (Schooner). The group was created in the summer of 2008 specifically for CyTunes.org, a site created to help their good friend Cy Rawls with his hospital bills while he fought cancer. In Cy's memory CyTunes has continued on with him as the inspiration, with the motto "Download Music, Downsize Cancer." The Flute Flies are playing the "CyTunes.org Launch Party" at the Local 506 in Chapel Hill on Friday, December 12. After this keep in touch, and go to the website to download as much music as you can.
Billy Alphin and Wes Phillips will be helping us out live at the Party, which is our maiden appearance.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
If you hate Jingle Bell Rock as much as I do ...
You just may appreciate the Really Terrible Orchestra of the Triangle's version of "Jingle Bell Rock." Check out Matt Ehler's piece on this awesome orchestra, and especially check out the audio factbox with the story. This is one group that truly does live up to its name.
Originally I titled this blog, "If you hate Christmas music as much as I do..." but then realized I actually kind of like a lot of Christmas music. Not sure what's up with me, but this year I'm actually kind of getting into the Christmas spirit, as evidenced by the TWO trees in my house. I've always had a soft spot for the old hymns, and I especially love "Silver Bells," and the Burl Ives song "Silver and Gold." But, man, do I hate "Jingle Bell Rock" (not too fond of "Santa Baby" either). It may actually be on my list of the top five songs I hate of all time, along with "Rikki Don't Lose that Number" and anything by the Grateful Dead. The Really Terrible Orchestra's version of that song is the only one that has ever made me happy.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Sweethearts go Static
Last night was the debut of Static Minds, which is essentially Suburban Sweethearts with The T's Andy Kerr on second guitar. I sort of assumed both bands would sound similar, but in fact Static Minds are much heavier. They certainly won over the crowd at Slim's. And a certain friend of mine remarked that Lucius is the only man in town who can get away with wearing a neckerchief. Here's a very dark video of the first song.
Static Minds from Mann's World on Vimeo. Opening up were The Huguenots from Chapel Hill, who have a '60s mod quality similar to The Names and The Booze, two great not-local bands I got to see this year. They're the ones who listed The Barbarians' "Moulty" as an influence. I got to the show after they began, so I don't know if they played that song or not, but I will personally buy each member of the band a PBR if they play it the next time I see them. Actually, I'll go ahead and put that offer out to any band in the Triangle. The only stipulations are that I have to be warned ahead of time so I can shoot video, and I will only do it once. And the drummer has to sing. Actually, the more I think about this, it might be better to have Sir Arthur do this song, and have Trent Bowles sing. Anyway, here's video of The Huguenots.
Static Minds from Mann's World on Vimeo. Opening up were The Huguenots from Chapel Hill, who have a '60s mod quality similar to The Names and The Booze, two great not-local bands I got to see this year. They're the ones who listed The Barbarians' "Moulty" as an influence. I got to the show after they began, so I don't know if they played that song or not, but I will personally buy each member of the band a PBR if they play it the next time I see them. Actually, I'll go ahead and put that offer out to any band in the Triangle. The only stipulations are that I have to be warned ahead of time so I can shoot video, and I will only do it once. And the drummer has to sing. Actually, the more I think about this, it might be better to have Sir Arthur do this song, and have Trent Bowles sing. Anyway, here's video of The Huguenots.
The Heugenots from Mann's World on Vimeo.
The Magic Babies headlined the show, but because I had to work early this morning, I cut out before Static Minds had finished.Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Fire at Double Negative practice space
Raleigh musicians, do you practice at the same Joyner Realty space at 622 Capital Boulevard as Double Negative? If so, you need to go by and
check to see if your equipment is OK. Double Negative sent word that
their stuff is OK, but at least one other band lost everything.
check to see if your equipment is OK. Double Negative sent word that
their stuff is OK, but at least one other band lost everything.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
This week's cool shows: Here Lies and Goner!
THIS WEEK'S SHOWS
Wednesday, Dec. 3: O'Death with Megafaun and Prayers and Tears (Perry solo), Local 506
Megafaun just keeps getting more and more press, so you might want to take advantage of seeing them while they're still in the clubs. I saw Prayers and Tears back in January, so this might give you some indication of how Perry's solo show will sound.
Wednesday, Dec. 3: The T's, The Bassment
Free show! According to a bulletin sent out a few days ago, Red Bull is sponsoring this show in order to expose The T's to a new audience. It might end up exposing some of their hard-core downtown fans to a new bar. I know it'll be a first time at the Bassment for me!
Wednesday, Dec. 3: The Rosebuds and The Loners, Pour House
The Loners rocked it at Slim's on Saturday, and The Rosebuds rocked it when they played Slim's a few weeks ago. Good idea to put them both together on the same bill.
Thursday, Dec. 4: FKON, Tir na Nog
Future Kings of Nowhere always manage to sound angsty and joyous at the same time.
Friday, Dec. 5: Southern Culture on the Skids with Malamondos, Lincoln Theatre
I haven't seen SCOTS in years. Anyone else out there remember 'Love in 4D'? Do they still play that one? Greensboro's Malamondos will rock your socks off with a girl singer who channels Bon Scott. The last time I saw them they totally tore up a version of 'Dirty Deeds,' which earns them high praise in my book.
Friday, Dec. 5: Magic Babies with Static Minds and The Huguenots, Slim's
Static Minds are formerly Suburban Sweethearts, now with Andy Kerr of The T's on guitar. The Huguenots list the song "Moulty" by the Barbarians as an influence, and since that's one of the most hilariously awesome songs ever recorded, I'm going to go ahead and advise you to see this band without knowing anything else about them.
Friday, Dec. 5: Polynya with Todd Igoe and Sea Cow, Pizza Palace, Durham.
This is an early show, starting at 8 p.m.
Sea Cow are earnest indie rockers with a love of hockey. Polynya write songs that start sweet and turn bittersweet. I can't find out much about Todd Igoe, except that he is a realtor in Chapel Hill, so if you're not into his music, at least you can ask his advice about buying a house. I don't remember if I've ever been to the Pizza Palace or not. If I have, It's seriously been 20 years or so. Looks like a funky place. I have no idea if the pizza is any good.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Viva la Venus, Dive Bar
Tough girl rockers, with a dude drummer.
Saturday, Dec. 6: American Aquarium, The Pour House
This is one of those bands that makes me feel like I'm in Bizzaro World. Apparently they are pretty well-known and have a whole passel of rabid fans, but I don't know anyone who knows or cares about them. Based on their myspace, they sound like standard alt-country/bar blues. But I might check out this show to find out if I'm missing anything important.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Death Metal Fest, Volume 11
I still don't know anything about the Death Metal fest.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Reservoir 4-year anniversary party
With Transportation, Fin Fang Foom, Caltrop and Monsonia
Caltrop is brain-crushing blues sludge. I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Dec. 6: Goner with Here Lies, Slim's
Now here's an odd double-bill: Angry synth-rock (Goner) and death metal (Here Lies). Should be a fun night.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Actual Persons (Living or Dead) with Basalt and Roxcetera, Bull City HQ
Basalt is the solo project of former Mercury Birds/Taja Rae guitarist Nicky. Roxcetera is the latest incarnation of Roxotica, which started out as a tribute to the old all-girl NWOBHM band Rock Goddess. Actual Persons Living or Dead don't have any music on their myspace, so I can't tell you anything about them, but they allegedly have a glockenspiel player in the band.
Sunday, Dec. 7: Chip Robinson, Sadlack's
Former Backsliders frontman is back in the area and playing some shows.
Monday, Dec. 8: Off with Their Heads and Dear Landlord, Bull City HQ
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 11: Animal Music with Citified, Tir na Nog
Saturday, Dec. 12: Old Habits Mayhem Holiday Bash, The Pour House
Cool John Ferguson, Slim's
This is an unusual, but very welcome booking for Slim's. Cool John (based in Beaufort, S.C.) is a true electric blues legend, and this is a great opportunity to see him up close and personal.
Dec. 13: Nikki Meets the Hibachi (Early); Dirty Little Heaters with The Loners (late), The Cave
Dec. 14: Birds of Avalon with The T's, Richard Bacchus and the Luckiest Girls and The Loners, Lincoln Theatre
Whoa, this is essentially a who's who of Raleigh rock right here. It will be great to see all of these bands on a big stage.
Dec. 14: An Acoustic Evening with Kenny Roby and Django Haskins, The Pour House
Solo sets from two of the most amazing singer-songwriters in the area.
Monday, Dec. 15: Trekky Records presents Christmas at the Cradle
With the Trekky Yuletide Orchestra, which now has its own CD.
Saturday, Dec. 19: Chatham County Line Holiday Ho Down, The Pour House
Sunday, Dec. 20: Scott Phillips, Royal Bean Coffeehouse
Scott is the singer/keyboard player for Goner. For this show, he's performing two sets solo (8 and 9 p.m.), but with guest appearances by the following folks:
Anne Polesnak (from Physics Of Meaning) on cello
Brian Donohoe (from Starmount) on drums
David Morris on tuba
David Mueller (from Birds Of Avalon) on guitar
Greg Elkins (from Starmount) on pedal steel
Royal Bean Coffeehouse is across from Meredith College in Raleigh.
Sunday, Dec. 20: Evil Wiener Christmas show, The Cave
Sunday, Dec. 20: Pinche Gringo with Dirty Little Heaters, Local 506
Dec. 20: Patty Hurst Shifter, Slim's
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's
Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House
Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle
With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's
I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
Wednesday, Dec. 3: O'Death with Megafaun and Prayers and Tears (Perry solo), Local 506
Megafaun just keeps getting more and more press, so you might want to take advantage of seeing them while they're still in the clubs. I saw Prayers and Tears back in January, so this might give you some indication of how Perry's solo show will sound.
Wednesday, Dec. 3: The T's, The Bassment
Free show! According to a bulletin sent out a few days ago, Red Bull is sponsoring this show in order to expose The T's to a new audience. It might end up exposing some of their hard-core downtown fans to a new bar. I know it'll be a first time at the Bassment for me!
Wednesday, Dec. 3: The Rosebuds and The Loners, Pour House
The Loners rocked it at Slim's on Saturday, and The Rosebuds rocked it when they played Slim's a few weeks ago. Good idea to put them both together on the same bill.
Thursday, Dec. 4: FKON, Tir na Nog
Future Kings of Nowhere always manage to sound angsty and joyous at the same time.
Friday, Dec. 5: Southern Culture on the Skids with Malamondos, Lincoln Theatre
I haven't seen SCOTS in years. Anyone else out there remember 'Love in 4D'? Do they still play that one? Greensboro's Malamondos will rock your socks off with a girl singer who channels Bon Scott. The last time I saw them they totally tore up a version of 'Dirty Deeds,' which earns them high praise in my book.
Friday, Dec. 5: Magic Babies with Static Minds and The Huguenots, Slim's
Static Minds are formerly Suburban Sweethearts, now with Andy Kerr of The T's on guitar. The Huguenots list the song "Moulty" by the Barbarians as an influence, and since that's one of the most hilariously awesome songs ever recorded, I'm going to go ahead and advise you to see this band without knowing anything else about them.
Friday, Dec. 5: Polynya with Todd Igoe and Sea Cow, Pizza Palace, Durham.
This is an early show, starting at 8 p.m.
Sea Cow are earnest indie rockers with a love of hockey. Polynya write songs that start sweet and turn bittersweet. I can't find out much about Todd Igoe, except that he is a realtor in Chapel Hill, so if you're not into his music, at least you can ask his advice about buying a house. I don't remember if I've ever been to the Pizza Palace or not. If I have, It's seriously been 20 years or so. Looks like a funky place. I have no idea if the pizza is any good.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Viva la Venus, Dive Bar
Tough girl rockers, with a dude drummer.
Saturday, Dec. 6: American Aquarium, The Pour House
This is one of those bands that makes me feel like I'm in Bizzaro World. Apparently they are pretty well-known and have a whole passel of rabid fans, but I don't know anyone who knows or cares about them. Based on their myspace, they sound like standard alt-country/bar blues. But I might check out this show to find out if I'm missing anything important.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Death Metal Fest, Volume 11
I still don't know anything about the Death Metal fest.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Reservoir 4-year anniversary party
With Transportation, Fin Fang Foom, Caltrop and Monsonia
Caltrop is brain-crushing blues sludge. I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
SHOW OF THE WEEK!
Dec. 6: Goner with Here Lies, Slim's
Now here's an odd double-bill: Angry synth-rock (Goner) and death metal (Here Lies). Should be a fun night.
Saturday, Dec. 6: Actual Persons (Living or Dead) with Basalt and Roxcetera, Bull City HQ
Basalt is the solo project of former Mercury Birds/Taja Rae guitarist Nicky. Roxcetera is the latest incarnation of Roxotica, which started out as a tribute to the old all-girl NWOBHM band Rock Goddess. Actual Persons Living or Dead don't have any music on their myspace, so I can't tell you anything about them, but they allegedly have a glockenspiel player in the band.
Sunday, Dec. 7: Chip Robinson, Sadlack's
Former Backsliders frontman is back in the area and playing some shows.
Monday, Dec. 8: Off with Their Heads and Dear Landlord, Bull City HQ
NEXT WEEK'S SHOWS
Thursday, Dec. 11: Animal Music with Citified, Tir na Nog
Saturday, Dec. 12: Old Habits Mayhem Holiday Bash, The Pour House
Cool John Ferguson, Slim's
This is an unusual, but very welcome booking for Slim's. Cool John (based in Beaufort, S.C.) is a true electric blues legend, and this is a great opportunity to see him up close and personal.
Dec. 13: Nikki Meets the Hibachi (Early); Dirty Little Heaters with The Loners (late), The Cave
Dec. 14: Birds of Avalon with The T's, Richard Bacchus and the Luckiest Girls and The Loners, Lincoln Theatre
Whoa, this is essentially a who's who of Raleigh rock right here. It will be great to see all of these bands on a big stage.
Dec. 14: An Acoustic Evening with Kenny Roby and Django Haskins, The Pour House
Solo sets from two of the most amazing singer-songwriters in the area.
Monday, Dec. 15: Trekky Records presents Christmas at the Cradle
With the Trekky Yuletide Orchestra, which now has its own CD.
Saturday, Dec. 19: Chatham County Line Holiday Ho Down, The Pour House
Sunday, Dec. 20: Scott Phillips, Royal Bean Coffeehouse
Scott is the singer/keyboard player for Goner. For this show, he's performing two sets solo (8 and 9 p.m.), but with guest appearances by the following folks:
Anne Polesnak (from Physics Of Meaning) on cello
Brian Donohoe (from Starmount) on drums
David Morris on tuba
David Mueller (from Birds Of Avalon) on guitar
Greg Elkins (from Starmount) on pedal steel
Royal Bean Coffeehouse is across from Meredith College in Raleigh.
Sunday, Dec. 20: Evil Wiener Christmas show, The Cave
Sunday, Dec. 20: Pinche Gringo with Dirty Little Heaters, Local 506
Dec. 20: Patty Hurst Shifter, Slim's
UPCOMING IN GENERAL
Thursday, Dec. 25: Terry Anderson's 9th Annual Christmas Throwdown, The Pour House
Dec. 27: Colossus with Hellrazor, Slim's
Colossus is a must-see for Judas Priest fans. Hellrazor describes themselves as "breakneck heavy metal" on their myspace page, and that pretty much describes the music I've heard by them.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Urban Sophisticates, The Pour House
Check out the footage my former colleague Rob Roberts got of Urban Sophisticates a couple of years ago.
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Kerbloki, Red Collar, Hammer No More the Fingers, Local 506
Jan. 9: North Elementary CD-release party, Cat's Cradle
With guests Kingsbury Manx, Erie Choir and Popular Kids (stand-up comedy)
Jan. 14: Viva La Venus, Lactose Quervo and HOW, The Pour House
Jan 16: Transportation, Slim's
I have, until now, not been aware of Transportation, but when I googled them, I found reviews by esteemed local critics David Menconi, Ross Grady and Grayson Currin. Apparently they're a soft-ish pop group from Chapel Hill, with a CD out on Demonbeach. CORRECTION: This CD is on Fractured Discs.
Jan 21: Vic Chesnutt, Local 506
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