Ten years ago, Coles Whalen sold everything she owned to buy a camper and tour the country. Since then she’s written countless songs, collaborated with other artists, and settled on a musical style all her own.

Her first taste of music was at the age of seven, singing in a children’s choir in Colorado and, thankfully, it didn’t stop there. Whalen would eventually develop a lifelong love of music- adding piano, guitar, mandolin, and accordion to her list of talents.

In February 2012 she released her fifth album, entitled “I Wrote This For You,” on her own record label, Wrecking Ball, LLC. Inspired by some special people in her life, Whalen found a musical outlet to write an album that is both intimate and entertaining, and there is eloquence in her honesty. Her smooth vocals lift you up and let you down easy with lyrics like, “Stay with me baby a little longer, and if I don’t kill you, I sure will make you stronger,” in Cactus.

This album also marks a first for Whalen. Accustomed to writing solo, she had never co-written every track on an album. The resulting sound is a harmonious blend of pop, jazz, blues, and country that only a true artist could pull off. Her song, You’ll Be There, was co-written with rapper Akon, whom she met while performing for his HitLab Showcase in Montreal, Canada. Whalen’s collaboration with Akon is, yet another, pleasant twist on the typical pop-country album.

She’s been called, “the next big thing,” and rightly so. In hearing the first track of the album, gone is the humdrum country music sound that the Nashville machine has become accustomed to, and returned is your ability to get lost in a song. In Wrecking Ball Whalen sings, “You turn me like a steering wheel/ You close me like a business deal/ You break down all my walls like a wrecking ball.” This song full of similes and comparisons, much like the rest of the album, is like opening a gift- thirteen times.

It’s difficult to put into words the excitement one feels when witnessing a moment of greatness unfolding, and Whalen’s fans can certainly attest to this. Gone are the days when she opens for performers such as Joan Jett, or Pat Benatar. She’s certainly made a name for herself, but even that comes with its own set of problems, like whom will she get to open for her shows? Maybe Akon will return the favor.

Coles Whalen’s album release tour will be making a stop in Nashville, TN. Come out and hear her perform live at the Listening Room Café on March 17, 2012 at 6:30 PM.

Article by Lori Wescott

(Photo by Wes Shaw)

Emotionally damaged, or fragile. Suffering from addiction, or a broken heart. Coming out of a hard time, and into your own. Experiencing love, or loss. Being truly happy where you are, and with yourself. All of these situations are touched on in the soon to be released album, Trainwrecks and Pink Clouds.

Mitzi Dawn is a singer/song-writer who has written hits for well-known artists such as Alabama’s Randy Owen, and Billy Bob Thornton, among many others. There were eleven songs in particular that she felt were too personal for anyone else to sing. These eleven songs are what make up the Americana album, Trainwrecks and Pink Clouds.

Overcoming adversity is a topic familiar to a lot of people, but it has never been explained with as much vulnerable clarity as is demonstrated in this album. Ms. Dawn finds a way to demonstrate amazing poetic grace in documenting this autobiographical album that details her struggles with addiction, love, loss, redemption, and contentment. Most importantly, like every good book or movie, the struggles in the first half of the album are eclipsed by the happily ever after-ness in the second half.

The album will take you on a roller coaster of emotions from the third track, Less of Me when she sings, “I wish there was less of me to hate,” to “I’m happy. I’m whole, and I see love wherever I go,” in the song, 83 Million Heart Beats. You will cry. You will smile. You will relate, and maybe even heal after hearing what will be hands down the most personal lyrics you have ever heard.

All of the songs in the album are not only written by Mitzi Dawn, but also listed in the order that they were written- a technique unusual in the music business today. The decision to do this was all Dawn’s, and proved vital in the listener’s ability to experience the journey that is Trainwrecks and Pink Clouds.

“If you’ve never taken a drug, had a broken heart, made a mistake, or cried yourself to sleep, then you may have a hard time relating. For the rest of the world, this album is for you,” states Dawn.

The album, Trainwrecks and Pink Clouds, is set to release February 14^th, 2012 on Pacific International Music’s independent label, Organic Music Revolution. Dawn and her band are planning to be on the road every weekend between March and November 2012 spreading her message of hope and healing. In an effort to keep this project completely independent they are accepting donations through the popular fundraising website, IndieGoGo. For more information, or to donate go to www.MitziDawn.com.

The single Razorblades and Whiskey is available for purchase on iTunes. Do yourself a favor and buy it today.

Article by Lori Wescott, Tennessee Humorist and Celebrity Correspondent

I don’t think that I am the only one aware of the fact that this is the first time since the seventies that selling a million albums is considered a big deal. I would like to take a look back at the last 15 years of mainstream music production, and see if there are any clues as to why this has become the present state of the music industry. I may have to go back further than 15 years to find some examples of what started this evolution or de-evolution depending on how perceive the business as of late. Image may be a good place to start.

Back in the 60’s and 70’s when consumers would flock to their local record stores to buy the next big thing, the albums that were purchased a lot of the times didn’t even contain a photo of said band. That in itself, I think gave the fans of that time something that has been lost in music for quite some time, and that would be mystery. Not knowing what a group looks like immediately erases any prejudice one might have by looking at a cd cover and dismissing an artist because of their image, and in some cases it may actually enhance the listening experience not knowing what an artist’s appearance is. Even a marketing machine such as KISS, arguably the kings of self promotion, and visual entertainment toyed around with their fans knowing that information about the group at the time of their rise to super stardom wasn’t as readily available as it is now.

Information now is unavoidable, and in many cases the image of a performer is well known before you hear the first note. That wasn’t the case back then, and as with any business there comes a time when profits become way more important than the products themselves, and the need to produce more, as well as make more money begins to take precedent over whether or not the product is off any quality. The advent of MTV could also have played a part in how the industry has changed also. When music videos became all the rage in the early 80’s, MTV as well as the major record labels were scrambling to get their artists on the infant network. I remember when MTV first aired. The video selection was so slim that you saw the same 40 videos essentially on a loop, also there no commercials either, just videos 24 hours a day!

With this came a tsunami of content from all over, but mainly from Europe where television programs that featured musical acts were far more common than they were here in the states. What also came with this was an influx of different styles exhibited by these mostly unknown acts. New wave pop, punk, rock, synth groups, and classic well established artists trying to get in on the new fad! Once the music video became an integral part in groups reaching wider audiences, image became priority. Now everyone could see what the bands looked like and could put faces with names, as well as pick favorite members. This was a revelation for some, and a curse for others. It wasn’t too long after MTV became a standard that record labels began signing acts based on their looks as opposed to their material or talent.

This I believe is the start of a trend that leads to a theory I developed that explains why there aren’t as many albums being sold in the music industry as of late. If you just look back at the rollercoaster trends of the music business starting from 1995 to 2010 you may be amazed at how much money was spent, made, and lost in those 15 years. Even if you were to just go back 5 years you would see that there were acts that were selling in excess of 10 million copies of a single album. That presently seems like an almost unreachable feat.

The downloading of music and radio can also very easily thrown into the mix for reasons for this. Sites such as Napster, Limewire, and Itunes just to name a few have allowed consumers to buffet style there music choices without shelling out 15 bucks + for an entire album that they might not like. I agree with this to an extent. I may be different than most, but when an artist that I’m interested in releases new material, I want to hear everything they have to offer.

Radio in conjunction with downloading sites and MTV can also be viewed as an ingredient to the current plight. When the radio plays a new song from an artist and promotes it heavily as a hit it caters more to the singles market than anything, which is great for mainstream acts, but not so much for groups that aren’t known for writing popular styles of songs. Radio in some cases tells the listener without saying it, that there are only “these” songs worth listening to on the album. There’s also a lot of money being thrown at the radio stations by the labels for prime rotation and promotion of song as well.

At the beginning of the decade around 2000 there was so much money being made that some labels were buying the first million copies or so of their own albums so they could claim in the press that the release shipped platinum! But by the time 2010 rolled around those are just fond memories. I believe that in the wake of this, labels have taken on a philosophy of marketing products instead of artists. With shows like American Idol, which creates a guaranteed fan base and record sales, discoveries from Youtube, and countless other examples have shown that fewer chances are being taken. This I believe could start a cycle of diminished quality. I understand the reasons why fewer risks taken. The economy is bad, and people have a lot less money to spend on things such as records. That being said I do still have concerns about the future of the business. Has it become style over substance? It’s something ponder.

The group also consists of: Midwestern transplant Brandon Urich laying the beats; Pittsburgh, PA native Justin Miller on bass; and a Southern grown guitarist with classical instruction, Nathan McFarland. The response has been phenomenal. Grammy award winning audio engineer John Yosh said, “Feedback Revival: a befitting name for a group that takes their styling from the MC5, The Stooges, and God only knows what else… and blends it into their own 21st century schizoid music. Thank God for giving them the guts to do it!”

Justin Kline is an independent Psych pop / Power pop / Whatever Pop artist from the Nashville, TN area. Being a multi-instrumentalist, Justin has recorded and released two solo EPs, Six Songs (2008) and Triangle (2010), which have come to receive a great response from pop fans and music blogs/zines. Powerpopaholic said Triangle was “one of the best EPs I’ve heard this year”, and that Six Songs is “so full of sugar, I got cavities just listening to it”.

At an early age, Justin was influenced by the music talent of his mother, and his parents collection of Beach Boys cassette tapes and records. He picked up the guitar at the young age of 10 and that’s where it all started (or went down hill?)

His early teen years consisted of small dead-end local bands, eventually leading to the birth of southern Maryland indie rock trio In Clover who went on to release 3 EPs and 1 LP, two of which were released onTheory 8 Records (that was a nice run-on sentence right?) The band ended in 2004 after bassist Dan Wax suffered a severe Ping Pong accident prohibiting him from playing bass.

Justin went on to release a folky/acoustic album Funeral Birth of a Tree in 2005 under the moniker Sleepy River. Later that year, Justin founded the power-pop quartet Heartstring Band and released Aurora Songs Vol. 1., but only to break up soon after due to a mix of unnecessary band drama. Kline later moved to Murfreesboro, TN to focus on his family and music career.

Early 2007, Justin started working with producer Mark Nash at The Bookhouse in Nashville, TN. He released Six Songs in 2008, which got a great response from fans, and was also added as the number the 1 spot on Top 10 EPs of 2008 list by Absolute Powerpop. While working on a full length follow up to Six Songs, the master tapes of his almost finished album Balance were stolen out of the studio and never recovered. Luckily, two of the best pop-gems from the recording sessions had been rescued, which were later released on Triangle (2010).

Being a short 4-song collection, Triangle was released shortly after the theft, and went on to achieve a nice buzz from bloggers and writers.BMF said the release “could be argued as the feel good EP of the year” along with Absolute Powerpop saying “don’t leave the house or car with this being the last you heard because it will monopolize your brain”.

Kline is currently working on a batch of Lo-Fi home recordings which should be available soon.

Regional acts such as Lord T and Eloise have recently performed at Gilligan’s which opened this month in downtown.  Other acts from around the country will be performing upcoming dates, along with local DJ’s and artists.  Gilligan’s is very similar to 527 in layout, however, new owners have slightly changed the stage setup and did some minor remodeling.

The spot has always been a well known place for live music, drinks, and DJs in the past few years.  However, consistency of crowds seem to be an ongoing battle for owners to entice people to attend shows regularly.

The building has had a history of good shows occasionally, but what has always been a struggle is creating  a popular large capacity music venue in the boro.   What is now Gilligan’s, has held a variety of names and ownership in the last ten years. Main Street Music, Bongo Johnny’s, Sweetwater, Inferno Bar have all flowed in and out of the location.  Most recently however, 527 music venue has changed names and ownership.

Gilligan’s is a large venue able to hold 300 people easily.  Music goers can enjoy live music such as rock, funk, and blues on most any night.  Other locals enjoy hip hop and rap djs. Dance parties are also gaining popularity as the word spreads about the new atmosphere at Gilligan’s.  Gilligan’s will be a good time for all who attend, especially with great drink prices.  The new owners hope it will become a popular hang out for students over time and a staple live music venue in Murfreesboro.

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THE LAST STRAW Find a Home at New Venue, but Historic Location! Murfreesboro Music Scene

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Fresh off a festival gig, The Last Straw are back to start their new fall season at recently established Gilligan’s Bar in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. They will take the stage on Friday, September 17, 2010, at 10 p.m. Attain FREE admission and an essential dancing spot before 10 p.m., otherwise it’s a $5 cover charge.

The Last Straw needs no introduction as they return to the stage in their old stomping ground of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Murfreesboro’s loyal Straw fans have watched the band progress one epic show at a time into one of the South’s finest rock ‘n’ roll bands. The Last Straw’s eclectic style and powerful vintage sound keep the fans on their toes begging for more. They’ve performed in both festival and concert format. Their long list of accomplishments include: Forecastle Festival 2009, Head Jamz Festival 2010, and opening for Blues Traveler, Foghat, and Drive-By Truckers. They’re a powerhouse in Middle Tennessee, and recognized throughout the Southeast as one of the best progressive southern rock bands touring today.

Visit TheLastStrawRocks.com for more information.

Gilligan’s Bar was formerly a venue named 527 Main Street which is also the establishment’s address. Persons must be the legal age of 21 years or older to enter.

About the Band:

• Kyle Daniel – Lead Vocals/Guitar
• Quincey Meeks – Lead Guitar/ Harmonica
• Adam Botner – Keys/Backup vocals
• Marc Williams – Bass
• Pearce Harrison – Drums

Five men, from different musical backgrounds, combine the influences of their past and their vision of the future to create a sound so unique, yet so recognizable, that it can be mistaken as nothing but The Last Straw. Screaming riffs, impeccable percussion, roaring slide guitar, groovy bass, and the sensation of the perfect organ notes fill the sound that becomes so easily familiar. Songs like “Rock N’ Roll Queen,” and “She Don’t Love You” are reminiscent of some of The Last Straw’s greatest influences; such as The Black Crowes, The Allman Brothers, and The Beatles. 23 year old Kyle Daniel’s lyrics scream blues, soul, and rock with the power of a voice far beyond his years. Quincey Meeks’ notes stream from his amplifier in perfect accompaniment, while Marc Williams keeps the bass line fresh for every song. Pearce Harrison marks the beat with his well timed thunder, and Adam Botner provides the perfect amount of funk and soul as he pounds the ivory. The combination of all five men’s eclectic southern roots and influences produces a stripped down, in your face sound that’s familiar, yet fresh. Their huge guitar solos and keys sweep over the top of the hip-swinging bass lines and precisely timed drums and combine with many of the same elements that made bands like The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Led Zeppelin, and The Who legendary.

Not often is it that you find something that is so fresh, unique, and new wrapped up in a sound that pleases your senses like The Last Straw. On stage they go huge on songs like “Down the Line” and “Take a Ride,” and blend covers from the Grateful Dead to Rage Against the Machine into their originals. They’ve performed in both festival and concert format, and their long list of accomplishments include The Forcastle Festival of 2009 as well as opening for Blues Traveler later that year. They’re a powerhouse in Middle Tennessee, and recognized throughout the southeast as one of the best progressive southern rock bands touring today. They’ve received great accolades and multiple awards. Their work ethic and dedication to the music is taking them places…..and fast!

By seeing what the band has already accomplished in such a short time, we are surely to see only great things from them in the future.

Gilligan’s Bar Murfreesboro

Quantum Publicity
5215 Franklin Pike
Nashville TN 37220
615.370.2426 office
615.781.4958 fax
publicity@quantummgt.com

The boro has been home to many local bands of the years in Murfreesboro, TN.  Bands like the Features, Self, and Feable Weiner have played pack shows in years past to any ever changing music scene.  Up and coming artist such as Overzealous, We Were the States, and many others now perform at the boro regularly to live music loves in the area.  The Boro may be referred to as a “dive bar,” by some but for those who love good music and good atmosphere, the Boro will be an instant favorite.

The Boro also has a full menu of various entrees and appetizers.  The Boro is a lovely lunch spot when weather is nice enought to sit on the patio or enjoy the fresh air inside when the windows are opened.  The service is also very fast and friendly.  The waitresses are always kind and continuously checking tables to accommodate customers.

The main interest in the boro for most people is the honest music that pours out of the walls almost every night of the week.  A wide variety of artists enjoy performing here because of the intimate setting that joins the people and the artist together in an enjoyable and almost lounge-like environment.   You can never fully predict what music your ears may stumble upon, but shows at The Boro are almost always entertaining in one way or the other.  Visitors may expect to hear solo artists perform alt-country styles, while other nights you may hear some of the heaviest music around.

Good food, good beer, and the wide variety of music along with the atmosphere, are what keeps the Boro Bar and Grill running as strong as ever these days.

He spent the bulk of his youth wearing only one sock whenever possible. Large crowds, in basements and bars, from Bristol to Brooklyn, have witnessed the strength of PUJOL’s live show, which showcases the band’s best qualities.

PUJOL is touring with, Joey Scala on the bass, Sean To The Wall Thompson on lead guitar, and Adam Tanaka on the drums. PUJOL is also a beautiful blur of optimistic, Wezoteric, Danalytic, manalog, American rock and roll. While PUJOL’s music cuts to the core of the twenty-something condition, his imagery skims the surface of popular culture.

His favorite song is “Werewolf Bar Mitzvah” by Tracy Jordan and “The Harder They Come” by Jimmy Cliff. The flier for a PUJOL show could easily feature Rambo and Kim Jong Ill sexting on chatroulette in bright sans serif font that reads “the bourgeoisie has absorbed the social deviant, so James Dean is really dead.” And, let’s say, there are lasers coming out of their eyes. When asked at the tender age of 4 what he wanted to be when he grew up, he responded, “Naked.” These dudes are way beyond thunderdome.

Indulge in the restaurant’s impressive beer selection. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Newcastle are only two import options available on draft. Happy Hour features a superb selection of spirits that are priced to be customer friendly. Live entertainment is another one of Wall Street’s highlights – a full calendar of events showcases everything from acoustic solo artists to popular local bands. Whatever you choose, we know you’ll be happy you came.

Downtown workers make this a regular lunch spot thanks to the great hot sandwiches, but at night the spot is really jumping thanks to the heavy roster of rotating bands that come through town. Bourbon and beer are equally loved, and live band karaoke has a following all on its own. The bar is usually pretty busy at night, and this spot really contributes to the growing after-hours scene on the square.

Back in April, Wallstreet suffered structure damage on the upper level due to a wall collapsing on the outside of the building next door.   Wallstreet has since had to cancel concerts upstairs for the time being.  The live shows will resume by October according to the staff.  A gaping hole was left on the backside of a building.  Officials said parts of the former Mid-Cumberland Community Service Agency building on West College Street came crashing down around 9:15 p.m. Monday.  The building was over 100 years old and has sat empty for around two years.  Crews planned to remove loose brick in an effort to stabilize the remaining structure.

A demolition crew went to work on the vacant building next door. The building is connected to Wall Street on one side and Marina’s Restaurant on the other.

A stairway leading to the restaurant’s second floor music venue was damaged when the wall collapsed, and now it too is off limits.  Inspectors blame the collapse on a rotten header beam. The beam broke and everything above it came crashing down. The inspectors said the wall was just a facade, and the structure itself is sound.

In most cases repairs can be made. The only interruption to Wall Street and Marina’s was a brief power and gas outage. Crews cut the services to make it safe to clean up the damage.  By lunchtime customers ate at Wall Street and Marina’s as if nothing had happened.  Wallstreet is standing tall.

Hours of operation:

7 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-3 a.m. Monday-Friday; 6 p.m.-3 a.m. Saturday; 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Sunday

Erratic performs many different styles of music, hence the name of the band.  Musical genresinclude rock and roll, blues, folk, jazz and country.  Its eclectic sound surpasses any you have heard.  Slapping the ears of their listeners with different melodies and lyrics, keeping them on their musical toes.  There is something for everyone to enjoy in these original tunes.

Founded by Chip Woody.  Chip’s unique writing ability and arrangement talents exceed description.  Erratic’s musicianship is astounding.  Its resounding, refreshing and unique sound is an indescribable change for all music lovers.

Chip Woody (founder) was offered a recording contract at the age of 17 by DOT Records.  His parents were against this and, since the contract required their signature, they would not sign for him.  They were afraid he would devote his life entirely to playing music and would have no aspirations to do anything else.  He has written and played sessions for Bill Walker (arranger and band leader of the late and greatJohnny Cash), Wayne Carson (co-writer of “Always on My Mind,” which was recorded by Elvis and Willie Nelson), and “The Letter” (recorded by The Box Tops and Joe Cocker).  He also sang backup for Harry Chapin.  He has played on many sessions in Nashville, TN.  He owns a studio located in Nashville, TN, in which he has recorded such greats as Johnny Hiland, Ray Flacke and many others.  His musical talent as an arranger as well as producer can be heard in his recordings.  Erratic is a mixture of multi-talented individuals to include:

CJ Summerfield, a guitarist/multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter/producer and a performing veteran whose credits range from touring with the late great Nicolette Larson (Sony), and Fire Town (Atlantic) to appearances on the nationally syndicated television show “Star Search” as well as programs for American and Japanese television.  Highlights also include: penning four hit singles (two top ten) and producing and performing on national radio commercials.  CJ was also nominated for a Grammy award for the 36th annual Grammy awards.

Ron Sherer is an accomplished musician on pedal and lap steel guitar, trombone, harmonica, as well as guitar.  He has been playing in bands since 1962.  He studied music composition and theory with renowned professors, Dr. Thomas Ferguson and the amazing saxophonist James Terry (who played with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and recorded for Stax Records).  Ron has played many genres to include symphony orchestra, rock and roll, blues, wind ensemble, country, jazz, folk, R&B and soul.  He has played with such greats as Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Pride, Tony Joe White, Razzy Bailey, Charlie Louvin, Marvin Stamm, James Williams, Ernie Ashworth, Jeannie Seeley, Freddie Hart and many others.  He has also played on many studio sessions.  Ron has opened shows for many artists, among them, Blake Shelton, Billy Currington, Freddie Hart and Razzy Bailey.  He has been playing with Erratic since 2004.

David Harbin received his first real drum, a Slingerland snare, at age four and formed his first rock band, the Road Runners, in the 5th Grade.  David has played drums in various dance/original music bands all through elementary, high school, college, up to present.  While studying music and theater in college, David was musical director for the MTSU Touring Show and several productions, including Tommy, Godspell, and The Little Prince.  David was a full-time drummer at Opryland USA in the Country Music USA and Rock Shows and toured with Opryland Productions.  David also played drums at the Grand Ole Opry, backing various Opryland artists.  Over the years, David has played as pit drummer in numerous Nashville theatrical productions and has continuously played in dance bands.  Currently, David is an attorney practicing environmental law.  David also plays piano and guitar and owns Honey House Recording Studio in Bellevue, TN.  David has been playing with Erratic since 2001.

Joe Keith, electric and acoustic bass player, vocalist and sound engineer, has been playing in bands since 1965.  Joe plays many music genres, to include choral music, concert band, rock and roll, blues, country, bluegrass, jazz, folk, soul and many others.  Joe has played with such greats as the late Dottie West.  Joe’s involvement with other bands have led him to open for acts such as “The Hit Men of Music Row,” Leigh Ann Rimes, Phil Vassar, Keith Urban, Ronnie Dunn, Tim McGraw, John Bon Jovi, and many others.  Joe is at home in a small, intimate setting or a larger arena such as the Ryman Auditorium.  He has been playing with Erratic since 2008.

Joey Cochran:  Drums and Percussion.  Joey has been performing in and around Nashville, TN, since 1986.  Performances include orchestral, symphonic, concert and ensemble, community bands, praise bands, Christian acts, local rhythm and blues, jazz, fusion, rock, country and recordings.  He has performed both cover tunes and originals.  He has toured with “The Continental Singers.”  Joey is a devoted husband and father of two.  He is currently a software developer.  His passion for performing live music is a must see.  He has been with Erratic since 2006.Erratic’s experience, with its wide array of raw talent, speaks for itself.  This band is a marvel in its willingness to take risks to make the music diverse and a treat for anyone’s listening pleasure.

UPCOMING SHOWS in Middle Tennessee:

Aug 20    Friday Night 8-12 PM – Murfreesboro – Good Time Charlie’s inside Lanes, Trains, & Automobiles

Aug 21    Saturday Night 6-8 PM – Nashville – French Quarter Cafe

Erratic is:

GUITAR – MANDOLIN – HARMONICA – VOCALS:  Chip Woody

LEAD GUITAR – KEYBOARD:  C.J. Summerfield

STEEL GUITAR – TROMBONE:  Ron Sherer

BASS:  Joe Keith

DRUMS:  David Harbin

DRUMS – PERCUSSION:  Joey Cochran

BAND WEBSITE:

Hammertorch is an explosive country rock band from Murfreesboro, Tennessee.  With their honest, no-holds-barred, blue-collared approach, Hammertorch has consistently proven why they have earned the label of “Nashville band”: a fierce dedication to music. Given the ever-narrowing closed-mindedness of country music in Nashville, they have their sights set on destroying any and all boundaries that have traditionally limited country music. Hammertorch is redefining what it means to play southern music.

Visit Hammertorch

With the release of its second album on Sophomore Lounge, The Only Sons have come a long way since the beginning. Kent Goolsby, Blake Loftis and Jonathan Merritt have been playing music together since they were 16 years old.  Throughout their journey, the gang has seen many musicians come and go. Notable for The Only Sons was the loss of fiddle player Rebecca Ryan. However, her replacement by Andrew Mosiman and the solid lap steel/lead guitar sounds of Mike Burgess has left this band with a tight-knit group.

When asked how the alternative country sound of The Only Sons spawned, Goolsby explained that he grew up in a home filled with his parents’ vinyl collection—which included artists such as The Band, Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac and Neil Young. Kent said, “I didn’t really get it [Southern music] growing up because I always played punk music. Right around the time that we [his former band] were going in our weirdest direction, I starting thinking that I would just like to write real songs. I started having trouble finding purpose in really weird music. I was just losing my drive.”

This new direction birthed The Only Sons and a few years later its first full-length release, Young Lungs, a nine-song collection that kicks off with the immediately catchy track “Modern Men.” From here, the album progresses through a warm path of poetic lyricism and the Southern sounds that have put Nashville on the map. “Devil Wind,” recorded only with acoustic guitar and Goolsby’s raspy vocals, stands out as an evocative creation. Tracks like “Do You Wrong” and “Bad News” are quickly characterized by demanding lead guitar divisions and driving bass lines. Young Lungs is clearly an album these guys poured a lot of heart into.

Less than a year later, The Only Sons released its second full-length recording. Focusing more on memorable songwriting and less on poetic verse, Steel Hearts features 12 new tracks. While being released as a free download from TheOnlySons.net, Steel Hearts is also on the market as an album with artwork.

Working with a brand new recording setup at Grand Palace Records was an amazing experience for the band. Goolsby described Grand Palace as an incredible studio and said, “It was so much fun. I miss it already.” Along with members of The Only Sons, Steel Hearts features guest appearances by members of Zombie Bazooka Patrol and some contributing vocals from Joey Kneiser (Glossary).

As for the future, The Only Sons plan consists of playing shows, then playing some more shows, and when that is done, playing some more shows. Along with bars and venues, the group plans to stop by more houses and art spaces on a small in the coming months. In April, the boys will hit the studio alongside Producer Joey Kneiser (James Jackson Toth) and longtime engineer/friend Mikey Allred for their third full length effort, loosey titled “American Stranger.”

The Only Sons – Official Website

Blackwater James-Stone Cold – LISTEN HERE!

The rock n’ roll menace that is Blackwater James hails from the most unlikely of places…Country Music U.S.A…otherwise known as Nashville, TN. In Nashville it’s not uncommon for youngsters to pick up guitars and strum away and dream of country music stardom, but the front man and leader of Blackwater James dreamt of something a little different. Christopher James began playing guitar and singing the blues in the run-down back door dives of Second Avenue at the ripe ole age of 12. In these dark places he learned the essence of rock n’ roll….the attitude.

At the age of 15, ingesting a steady diet of Metallica, Guns & Roses, and Pantera, he joined the regionally successful metal group ATG. Christopher found a common musical thread and closely befriended ATG’s drummer Todd Schlosser. When the group would disband 4 years later, Christopher & Todd’s bond would remain strong.

After ATG, Christopher went from band to band starting such groups as My Reply and Blue Law. With Blue Law Christopher played Middle Tennessee heavily for 8 months. Christopher ended up playing lead guitar for the retro-rock outfit KENNEDY, where he would meet Josh Burns. Josh and Christopher grew especially close during their time in the band due to their shared passion of classic rock and Rage Against The Machine. After just a year Josh left KENNEDY and Christopher soon followed.

With his own definition of rock n’ roll and a sound that more reflected the edginess of the 80’s, Christopher James recruited Josh on bass and his old friend Todd Schlosser on drums. But the line-up was not complete, and neither was the sound. Wanting that much more punch, they searched for a second guitarist and found the perfect fit with Deanna Passarella. Within one practice Blackwater James was born. Pulling from every inch of their influences they created a new brand of rock music, a sound that more reflected the heavy guitars of bands like Buckcherry & Silvertide but the infectious vocal melodies of Journey or Free.

Blackwater James is currently mixing their debut EP due out for release at the end of June. The release will be accompanied by a barrage of local and regional shows regaining a fan-base from their former acts.

Local band overzealous has just finished a new  EP called “The Valley.”   Overzealous will also be playing BOROSTOCK 2010 on August 19th at the Boro Bar and Grill (Greenland Ave)  with other local bands The Avery Set and The Only Sons.

The new EP “The Valley” is unique and special for overzealous because it was produced completely independently and all songs were recorded to tape at a local home studio in Murfreesboro.

These songs are meant to be an outburst of new emotions from members Dustin Sellers, Brad Crittenden, and Nick Morrow. Songs like “Darling One” and “The Valley” tap into a melodic style of brit-pop that is still original and showcases a taste of the newer material.  The band is eager to put out as many songs as possible within the next coming months.  Sellers and Crittenden have a 10 year history of writing together, so a lack of material will not be an issue anytime soon.

“A lot of our material has really never been heard”, Crittenden stated.  ”Sometimes I’ll write an entire piece and have Dustin add harmonies or guitar parts and vice versa.  Other times we collaborate from the ground up and record the demos ourselves on whatever instruments we start with.  Since we both play piano and various other instruments, it has opened a lot of doors for the writing.  Now its to the point where we can feed of each other’s material for inspiration and new ideas.  Some of our songs sound like upbeat poppy piano tunes, while others are darker songs, or in your face rock like STP, Foo Fighters, or Weezer.  We are definitely a rock inspired band overall, but we have a lot of variety in our songs that some people may not even be aware of .”

Sellers says “its just the beginning of an ever growing sound from overzealous. We have so much new material and old material that has built up, the hard part is fitting it all together in the right spot.  I want to purge all the music that we’ve done since we started overzealous, even if its releasing the recordings as they are.  There is a lot of character on some of our old home demos, and I want to share the best of those with people.”

The Valley will be released for sale and download later in August.  Be sure to check these guys out live around the Southeast this Fall.

Upcoming Local Shows:

August 19th – 8PM – Borostock Show at The Boro Bar and Grill with The Avery Set

Sept – 13 – 9PM – Deli Magazine Showcase – The Mercy Lounge

LINKS:

www.overzealous.net

Overzealous on myspace

Overzealous on facebook

Also check out overzealous HERE!

So if you want Infectious Rock songs rolling around in your head all day then CŌVERGEIST is the Key. Providing Catchy feel good songs with a Raw and Explosive live presence is just the tip of the iceberg for this Nashville trio! You will find their feel good sound spreading like wildfire through the south with no sign of slowing. The vibe is Exhilarating! The sound is Viral! The reason you can’t get those songs out of your head… That’s CŌVERGEIST!!!

facebook.com/covergeist

www.captainmidnightband.com

Upcoming Area Shows:

Monday August 30 – The Mercy Lounge, Nashville, TN

The Avery Set is a strong cocktail of sorts. Capable of seamlessly transcending genres such as rock, country and folk, Nashville-based The Avery Set will whisk you away in a time machine back to the 50’s to shake hands with Johnny Cash, stop to have tea with Leonard Cohen, and finally, talk politics with Conor Oberst. It all started in a small, Michigan tourist town with high school friends, singer/songwriter Chris Zehnder and drummer Jake Bartlett. “Jake and I have been playing music together going on six years now. We know each other’s styles so well, it’s almost as if we can talk without speaking”, says Zehnder. With Brandon Harris on guitar and Shawn Supra on upright and electric bass, The Avery Set has been playing in support of their latest record, Returning to Steam. The album was received with wild applause from a sold out theatre in their home state, receiving illustrious media attention and even deemed a “masterpiece” by the Review Magazine. These four young friends and their ability to make music together are the key ingredients for a successful future.

8pm: Japanese Cowboys
9pm: Fourth Avenue
10pm: Overzealous
11pm: The Avery Set
12pm: The Only Sons

http://www.myspace.com/theaveryset

Jesse Skelton: Murfreesboro Guitar Instructor

Jesse has taught guitar for nearly 20 years. He started teaching new students for his fathers’ guitar instructional studio before he moved to Murfreesboro, TN. to become the elite guitar instructor for the most visited and respected musical supply store in the area. Some students that have been in his instruction have played with the Mid State Jazz Band, received full scholarships to college, and some have gone on to have very successful career’s in the music industry.

Phone Number: (615) 545-2858

E-Mail:  jessecskelton@gmail.com

Lessons taught at: Concert Productions – 217 West Main Street – Murfreesboro, TN

$72 monthly for 30 minutes a week.

You will need your own guitar, tuner, and metronome.

The Music Stop has all your guitar needs.

Jesse will provide most of the sheet music tailored for each individual student.