EightBall’s Official Video Release!
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Nashville’s own Eight Ball Rock band has just released their first video off their latest album entitled “Down to the River”!
The album”Back to Rock N Roll”, Eight Ball’s second album was recorded in late 2018 at the legendary recording studio Sound Emporium in Nashville. It picks up where the first one left off and continues to gain fans of all ages with their hat-tip back to the rockin’ 80’s but with all original music! Proving once again you don’t have to be 20 and on a reality TV show in order to still Rock and Roll!
“Down to the River”, their cross over hit is steadily climbing thru social media and developing its own following of “Swamp Rock” obtaining almost 3500 views in its first week of release!
Eight Ball will be playing the Pre-Party concert in Nashville on August 9th, for the RockNPod Expo 3!
Check out the video below! More about Eight Ball and to pick up the album go here!
Categories: General Tags: 80's, nashville, original music, rock
Is Gene Simmons still right? Is “Rock Dead?”
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“rock is dead”
“There’s every bit as much talent out there as there [was] when we first started, but the new bands have to live in their mother’s basement because they can’t afford to do this full time, because people are just filesharing and downloading,” he continued. “And that’s their prerogative — we allowed it and we haven’t sued everybody’s pants off for doing that. So that’s everybody’s fault — the record company’s fault.”
Read more at http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/gene-simmons-still-believes-rock-is-dead/#hiqrYX9htKCjWVWE.99
My review of Peter Criss’s book “Makeup to Breakup: My Life In and Out of Kiss
Categories: General Tags: blabbermouth, famous bass players, famous people, filesharing, gene simmons, icons, KISS, Napster, quotes, rock
KickActs interviews “Blacklite District”
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
Well I was born and raised in a town called Spearfish of the state of South Dakota. I met Kyle Pfeiffer (Lead Vox/guitars) in 5th grade and ever since then I’ve been by his side in the process of making music which later became Blacklite District. You can find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
I’d have to go with Chester Bennington of Linkin Park is one of my biggest influences because they were the band that really inspired me to wanna get involved with music. Other heroes of mine would be James Hetfield, Ozzy Osbourne, Zakk Wylde and the list goes on and on.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
Always have a lawyer and always make friends which will lead to great connections to get you further along and always be writing music. You either go full on with it or don’t do it. Go big or go home.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
Not having a lawyer at the time we absolutely should have had one but all you can do is live and learn and to move on.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
It’s always been an absolute blast playing at the famous venue “The Machine Shop” in Flint, Michigan. You can never go wrong playing there. They have an awesome staff, great sound and amazing hospitality. The party is just insane all around.
Worst gig we’ve had is where an amp or PA gets blown out and having to basically turn it into a stand up comedy show to keep the crowd from keeping silent until the situation is fixed. That’s never fun but we make the best of it. lol
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?
Always enjoying the art of drawing peckers and boobs growing up ahaha wtf. Some interesting questions we got here. Other that the drawings I enjoy running, disc golfing, skating and hiking quite a bit. I basically just love to be active and to be outdoors as much as possible.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
For the rock world I definitely see it dying out just because there hasn’t been any bands that top the big names like GNR, Kiss, Motley Crue, or Linkin Park. It’s all just starting to sound the same anymore. Where are those top new bands coming out at?
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
Look up some famous quotes that Dave Grohl states. He says exactly how I feel about those lame shows.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
It’s definitely a big reason of why the industry has been hurt and has changed the game dramatically. No one buys records anymore when your able to just go on YouTube and listen to an entire album for free. People need to realize that artists put their life into the music spend thousands of dollars to make their records. It has come down to making your money doing live shows, period.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
I know Vinyl records are out of date but I absolutely still rock them. I’ve got a couple old records players I use from time to time. I’ve got about a hundred old Vinyls including Black Sabbath, Kiss, The Doors, Led Zeppelin to even Linkin Park and more recent albums I’ll still occasionally purchase.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
Real. Live. Vocals.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
BLD is back and we are ready to roll harder than ever. It’s round 2 engaged. \m/
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Linkin Park
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
My real name isn’t Roman it’s Nick. Roman is my middle name. In high school I would always get annoyed by classmates coming up to me and saying “I’m Nick James B****!” But I’ve always went by my middle name Roman.
Favorite movie of all time and why.
The Breakfast Club. No need for why but because it’s such a fresh classic and if you haven’t seen it there must be something wrong with you.
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!”
Get off your phones and enjoy this precious thing called life that we all have! Nothing upsets me more than seeing 5 year old kids playing on their IPads/iPhones instead of being outside and coping with reality.
Categories: General Tags: alternative, Black Hills, Electronic, metal, rock, SD, Shauna O'Donnell
KickActs interviews KT Paige from “Romantic Rebel”!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and where you can be found online.
-KT: “My name is KT Paige. I sing for Romantic Rebel and I’m the Disney Princess of Horror. We’re most active on Facebook (Facebook.com/RomanticRebelRocks) so make sure you check out our page to see when we’ll be tearing up a venue near you!”
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
-KT: “I’m a huge fan of Stevie Nicks. I love her singing and her style in general. I also love Alice Cooper and Danny Worsnop for their music and stage presence.”
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
-KT: “Definitely network as much as possible and make as many friends in the business as you can. Also, you can only play the same circuit for so long. If you want people to hear your music, you have to tour outside of your city, state and region.”
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
-KT: “Nothing comes to mind. We usually take all advice we receive into consideration.”
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
-KT: “Playing Louder Than Life Fest was one of the coolest gigs we’ve played to date. Running into some of my band friends, as well as some of the musicians I look up to backstage, was pretty cool!”
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?
-KT: “I paint a lot of zombies and puppies.”
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
-KT: “It seems that a lot of bands nowadays feel that they don’t need to actually play their instruments or sing when they play shows. Sometimes the band’s album was produced to make the band sound better than they really are and when the time comes to perform it live, they can’t live up to the perfected sounds on the recording. So as a result, they use a multitude of tracks to give the illusion that they can actually play their parts just like the album. I’m not talking about background synth or strings that can give a live song body. It’s when singers are moving their mouths to melodies that are out of their range and guitarists are moving their hands up and down the guitar neck to a complicated riff. The way I look at it, if you can’t play it live, don’t put it on the album.”<——–HELL YEA I AGREE! (Editor)
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
-KT: “I don’t think it really affects it. Excluding: Adam Lambert, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, etc., most of the contestants on the show rarely make a dent in the industry after the show ends.”
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
-KT: “It’s a problem that is always going to occur. So the only thing you can do is think about the fact that your music is being spread around, even if it’s not in the most ideal manner.”
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
-KT: “Alex is a huge fan of all things Star Wars, Marvel and DC. Zach is completely obsessed with candy. Ty claims he loves Stars Wars, but he still hasn’t seen The Force Awakens.”
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
-KT: “If I didn’t know what a vinyl album was, I don’t deserve to be in band. I don’t own a record player, but I’ve bought ‘Never Mind The Bollocks’ as a gift for someone who does.”
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
-KT: “I think you know my opinion of this by now.”
Who, or what, is the next big thing?-KT: “Only the Music Gods know the answer to that…”
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
-KT: “Right now, it’s Fleetwood Mac, but that will probably change next month.”
Favorite movie of all time and why.
-KT: “Hardest. Question. Ever. I have an answer for every genre.”
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s where you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead KT PAIGE and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
-KT: “We’ll be heading out on tour this Summer, so come to a show and party with us!”
Categories: General Tags: alice cooper, chicago, Hard Rock, metal, music, rock, Romantic Rebel, stevie nicks
KickActs interviews Ashley of the “Affinity”!
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Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
I’m Ashley. I sing in a rock band called AFFINITY. We are from Toronto,
and you can find us online at:
www.youtube.com/affinitybandTV
www.affinityband.net
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
For me personally, I love Foo Fighters. Dave Grohl specifically. Hes a kick ass front man and songwriter. I just am always in awe when I see them live. We love covering Foo songs. I also am really inspired by female fronted rock bands like Evanescence and even old school bands like No Doubt. Strong female voices are always inspiring.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
Focus on writing great songs. Everything else will follow.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
I think I took the advice eventually. It’s the same advice I just gave. Focus on the songs. Its all about the songs. Work on your craft and talent of course, but write the best songs you can that really mean something to you and make you want to play them over and over and over. That addictive feeling translates.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Greatest – opening for INXS and Theory of a Deadman at Bayfest in Sarnia a few years ago. It was unreal. Such a huge ass stage, and we just got up there…with zero expectations from anyone..and we killed it. It was one of the best days of my life and I was like yes…this is what I want to do!
Worst – ummm. We got rained out at a University show once. Brutal. It was 4 degrees, and pouring rain. No cover for the stage.
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 would love to say sitting in the dark eating Cheetos lol! But no…I study psychology. Very interested in that. I’ll actually have my PhD pretty soon. So you can call me Dr. Rockstar 😉
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
I turn on the radio and get annoyed sometimes, because there is a lack of real rock bands. By that I mean real instruments and edgy loud voices. You hear a lot of “rock” songs that seem to be more electronica to me. It’s not that I have anything against different types of music. I love pop music, some r n b stuff. But what people think is rock today isn’t what I think it is. I like heavy loud guitars and drums. I do think rock is making a comeback, and I’m happy to be part of that. Our new record is full on rock, and we could not be more excited.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I think these shows have allowed a lot of people to get the exposure to do something great, and get their music heard on a worldwide stage. So you can’t knock that. And I think being on a show like that is super stressful. You are being judged every time you sing and criticized by millions. So props to them for having the balls to do that. Someone like Carrie Underwood or Kelly Clarkson..would they have “made it” anyway without the help of American Idol? Probably not. Cause its tough out there to get your music heard. But I do think that you shouldn’t look to shows like that as a standard of what it takes to make it in the music industry. If you stay true to yourself and work really really hard and write amazing songs and kill it live, I think the rest will honestly follow. You don’t just “make it” overnight. It takes a lot of years, a lot of work..alot of picking yourself up again and reworking songs.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
I really don’t care how you listen to my music. If you listen and spread the word about AFFINITY and come to a show, I’m really happy.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Chris – can lift 300 pounds over his head…with one hand
Mack – is secretly an amazing painter
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
I don’t know. I never watched this show. The professor?? I’m going with the professor.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
I do know what a vinyl album is haha! Come on…. But I was of the day of CDs, so I never bought a vinyl myself. My parents did have a record player and I think they had an Eagles record that we used to play when we were kids.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
No. I’m stranded on the island. I’m not really feeling the Tom Hanks in Castaway vibe. People will come look for the Biebs.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
Great voice. Strange stage show sometimes.. But killer vocals.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip synching or real vocals?
Real vocals. Who wants to hear the tracks? Why would I even go to the concert?
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
This band we just covered – PVRIS. They are blowing up. Great songs. Amazing voice (the frontwoman, Lynn Gunn)
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Foo Fighters are def my favorite all time.
I love Audioslave. Anything Chris Cornell does really.
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
I have a twin sister who lives in California. I can’t reveal if she’s ever done one of our shows before in my place…it’s a mystery 😉
Favorite movie of all time and why.
1) Seven. Brad Pitt. Kevin Spacey. Creeped me the eff out. I loooove Horror movies.
2) Spinal Tap. Dear god I love this movie and still laugh out loud at nearly every scene.
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”!
Get ready for our new record. And Turn it up to 11!
Categories: General Tags: canada, female singers, foo fighters, girls rock too, rock, Toronto
AC/DC over? Brian Johnson Quits…!
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AC/DC has taken a few hard hits lately but is this the last straw? If Brian’s hearing is in danger, I don’t blame him for retiring. I wonder how the fans will react to a guest singer to fulfill their postponed concert dates?
From the Sydney Journal:
With Brian Johnson reluctantly quitting as AC/DC’s singer the question has to be asked: is this the end for AC/DC, not only Australia’s biggest band but one of the world’s biggest?
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/brian-johnson-quits-acdc-now-the-rest-of-the-band-should-go-too-20160308-gndir1.html#ixzz42PH7h7Tf
Follow us: @smh on Twitter | sydneymorningherald on Facebook
Categories: General Tags: ac/dc, angus young, brian johnson, hells bells, malcom young, rock, rock band, singer, the Sydney journal
KickActs interviews “Artifas”!
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Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
The band has many different musical heroes. Everything ranging from Michael Jackson to Periphery, Incubus, Karnivool, Red, Justin Timberlake, Papa Roach…. There are many for us, and from all over the genre map.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
I think the best advice that I could give would be to never give up! This industry is tough and full of speed bumps in the road. Those who stick it out through the thick and the thin are the ones that make it in the end! Work hard and never give up! The most successful people in life are the ones who failed the most!
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
When we first started we went to go work with a well established rock singer(who I won’t name at the time). We were told by multiple people that he was going to screw us over and that we would end up regretting it! They were correct! That advice ended up costing us thousands of dollars and a lot of wasted time! I wish we would have listened to that one from the get go, but we were blinded by the shiny lights and promises that were never filled.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
There isn’t a “greatest gig” story that is just jumping off of the page! We have had so many great shows in 2015, that it would be hard to pick! Both the Saint Asonia and Theory of a Deadman tours were filled with those greatest gig nights! For me ( Scottie ) the worst gig would have to be back in 2012, I believe, when I broke my ankle on stage in front of a sold out home crowd…..IN THE FIRST SONG!!!! It was horrifying, but I didn’t stop the show! Once my adrenaline got going again, i was feeling good. That is until I got off the stage and went back to the merch table! Once i sat down and pulled of my boots, it looked like someone shoved a softball in my ankle! Needless to say the next few months of touring were a pain in the ass. Nothing like being on the stage in a bright red cast.
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 like to collect pipes haha!!!!! I also recently bought a drone, and that little thing is awesome! May be the start of a new hobby, may not! You will have to check back with me on that one. As far as the other guys, we have some pretty extreme gamers in the band. We also have a severe tendency to nerd out to Star Wars, Batman, The Walking Dead, and other kick ass super hero stuff!!!
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
The scene has it’s ups and downs. Recently we’ve seen a pretty decent change in the amount of people at shows! It all depends on where you are and who is involved though! Some places you would never expect have some of the best scenes and other places you feel would be amazing don’t seem to pull a crowd. I believe the scene will always be alive. People crave live music. There isn’t anything quite as passionate that you can experience.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I definitely don’t think they hurt the industry. Just because of those shows, people aren’t going to stop listening to other music. I think that it is a good avenue for some people who might not have the freedom or opportunity to get out there and grind like we do, but on the other hand, it makes it easier for people to just go do without figuring out who they are as an artist or without the drive to get out and do the work
themselves. It’s all just TV. I don’t really care too much about any of them, but more power to those who find that as their best avenue to pursue their dreams.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
It sucks, it’s here to stay, and there are other ways. It is the most basic form of stealing, but there doesn’t seem to be much that we can do about it. There does seem to be a massive shift to streaming music from
apps like Spotify and iTunes, which makes me a little happier to see, but the fact of the matter is that these companies aren’t paying the artists much either. I hope sometime in the near future there is a solution to
this. It’s only fair that the artists get paid for what they created.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Mikey is into Japanese Metal music. He’s big into groups like DollsBox. Anthony has actually played guitar in every other band he’s ever been with other than Artigas. Cody has a total soft spot for Almond Joy and Jared has still to this day never seen Star Wars
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Ginger…. let’s face it, she was the hot one
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Of Course. I used to have a pretty massive Vinyl collection with everything from Elvis, to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, etc. And then my crazy ex girlfriend stole them all. I haven’t seen them since!
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
I’d put him in a cage til I ran out of food!
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
Hot! Bad Songs! Doesn’t like clothes!
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
Real vocals all day, every day! I have lip syncing
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
I’m hoping we are!
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Karnivool
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
i used to teach high school drumlines. Yeah…me…. a high school teacher!
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Rockstar. First of it’s a music movie based around metal. Secondly it’s a movie where a guy follows his dreams no matter what!
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”!
If there is one steady thing that I always like to preach, it’s for people to chase their dreams! This life was meant for you to do what you love, and to go after what you want to be. I know it’s easy sometimes to get sucked into working a job you hate to make ends meet, but if i’ve learned anything through all of this, it’s that no matter what, if you really want something and chase after it with everything you have, then there is no reason that you shouldn’t succeed. Take the risk, take a chance, have some faith in yourselves! Dream big!
VH1 cancels “That Metal Show”!
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1/19: AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO THE FANS OF “THAT METAL SHOW”
January 19, 2016 By Leave a Comment
A message to the loyal fans of That Metal Show from Eddie, Jim & Don:
We are sorry to report that VH1 Classic will not continue to make any new episodes of That Metal Show. It has been an incredible run of eight years, roughly 125 episodes and some really cool specials. The global response to TMS has been simply amazing, and we will be eternally grateful for the support from the rock and metal fans that have showed us so much love. We truly would have never made it as long as we did without you! A huge thanks also to the great crews we had over the years both in NYC and Los Angeles, to our producer Jeff Baumgardner, and to all the executives at VH1. And finally, thanks to the hundreds of artists that joined us on our set, had fun with us, shared their stories and many, many laughs. From the biggest names in rock history, to the up-and-comers: we thank you all for being a part of it.
Of course we very much want to keep That Metal Show alive, and with the blessing of VH1 Classic, we’ve got the keys to the show and are currently searching for a new home. We’re not sure where we’ll land, but we hope to be back in our studio and your living rooms as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep an eye out for us on the road and come say, “Hello.”
Thank you for watching all these years, and we’ll keep you posted as soon as we have news to share.
From Don Jamieson
A message to the loyal fans of That Metal Show from Eddie, Jim & Don:
We are sorry to report that VH1 Classic will not continue to make any new episodes of That Metal Show. It has been an incredible run of eight years, roughly 125 episodes and some really cool specials. The global response to TMS has been simply amazing, and we will be eternally grateful for the support from the rock and metal fans that have showed us so much love. We truly would have never made it as long a…s we did without you! A huge thanks also to the great crews we had over the years both in NYC and Los Angeles, to our producer Jeff Baumgardner, and to all the executives at VH1. And finally, thanks to the hundreds of artists that joined us on our set, had fun with us, shared their stories and many, many laughs. From the biggest names in rock history, to the up-and-comers: we thank you all for being a part of it.
Of course we very much want to keep That Metal Show alive, and with the blessing of VH1 Classic, we’ve got the keys to the show and are currently searching for a new home. We’re not sure where we’ll land, but we hope to be back in our studio and your living rooms as soon as possible. In the meantime, keep an eye out for us on the road and come say, “Hello.”
Thank you for watching all these years, and we’ll keep you posted as soon as we have news to share.
Categories: General Tags: 80's, Don Jamieson, eddie trunk, rock, that metal show, VH1 classics
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
Kid Rock’s New Video “Johnny Cash”
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Kid Rock
New music video for “Johnny Cash” is here! The video was shot at Kid Rock’s sold-out 1st Annual Fish Fry in Nashville. Raise a finger in the air if you were there!! Check it out: http://bit.ly/1IEyEc0
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