Aces High with John Foley [INTERVIEW]

I first met John Foley through the online music festival, Doomed Fest, back in March. The moment I first heard John sing, I knew there was something special about him and his talent. His voice sounded like something straight from the 70’s rock ’n’ roll era, which is something I think is truly admirable.

Ever since I became a music journalist and becoming friends with him after the festival, I’ve thought of interviewing him. This piece right here was a few months in the making but it was worth the wait! I had a great time talking with John, learning more about him personally and his history playing music.

So without further ado, let’s get on with the interview with the man who is the future of rock ’n’ roll, ladies and gentlemen….

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Starting off, What’s your earliest memory involving music?

John: My earliest memory with music? There’s a song I found that I wrote when I was six called Rocky Road. The only line I remember from it is, “Gonna go down to the beach, gonna bring back a leech” So just great songwriting from early John. 

(laughs) Sounds like it.

John: (laughs)

What does your songwriting process look like?

John: So I normally start with just one lyric or a line, like a phrase. It’ll either come from listening to another song and getting an idea or reading a little phrase, and then I’ll kind of base the song around that and go from there. I always start with lyrics and then a melody. So I just kind of sing the song as I’m writing it and then I try to put chords to it after. I’m really not a great instrumentalist, so everything starts off with just singing and then trying to make the guitar fit to it afterwards.

Do you come from a musical family?

John: Yeah, my dad is a bass player. He’s been playing for fifty years, or something - I’m in his music room right now - and he taught me guitar - I wish that I had let him teach me earlier than I actually did because he tried to get me involved in music since I was really little and I was not interested in it, when I was in middle school doing other things, I guess. Then, when I was 16, I finally let him teach me a few chords and started learning from him. But yeah, he plays in a lot of bands around Charlotte, like bar bands and things like that. 

His dad was a trumpet player, I think and my mom’s dad sang in a choir church, so (laughs) there’s a little bit of it here and there. 

So you’re releasing a new song called, Aces High, which I wanna add it is a very good song, by the way. And I wondered if there were any certain artists who inspired the song?

John: Thank you. I don’t think, off the top of my head, if not directly with this song. All of the songs on this new EP, I think I finished in 2017 as well as my last EP, so it’s been a while since it’s been written. I don’t super remember writing this song, so I wish I could give you some insights into what inspired it but I (laughs) really cannot remember writing this song.

(Laughs) Well, that’s perfectly okay. All that matters is that you did a great job and I like the lyrics. I like everything about it.

John: Thank you, I appreciate it!

You’re welcome. Speaking of musical influences, when you’re writing a song, who usually inspires the songs you’re writing?

John: So I think a lot of my songs, for the most part, they’re not - I don’t sit down to write about myself and my life. Usually, it’s from just writing a story, so I pull a lot of influences from Tom Petty and country writers like Robert Earl Keen, that are just really good story tellers, and Brandi Carlile. So that’s what I just try to do with my songs is tell a story, but even when I’m not trying to write about myself, I’ll go back and listen to older songs and be like, “Oh, that was about my life,” and I just didn’t realize it at the time.

So, what draws you to rock ’n’ roll?

John: I’ve always grown up with rock ’n’ roll. The Beatles, The Eagles, and Tom Petty were always playing in the house when I was little, so I just grew up with it. Then at a concert - the energy and the raw emotion in rock is what really draws me to that more than other genres. I listen to just about everything, but the energy, especially live shows - which sucks  that we can’t go to any right now - that rock ’n’ roll energy that makes you feel badass and you can do anything.

What can we expect from your new EP?

John: After Aces High is released, three of the five songs will be out, but it’s kind of a moody, dark EP. The last song on it is kind of more Americana-y. I look at it like a bonus track because it doesn’t really fit in with the other four, but it’s one of my favorites, so I’m really excited for that to come out and Aces High, obviously. I’ve spent a lot of time with that song recently, working on the video, so I’ve grown to like that one too. It’s very lyrically-based. Like I said, very singer-songwriter is my method. So there’s some great musicians that played on there, some great guitar solos, and things like that, but lyrically-based, moody kind of classic rock feel music.

Well, I’m looking forward to this EP.

John: Thank you. Me too! I’m excited to get it out.

Since concerts have come to a halt, one question I want to ask you is: are there any concerts that have added to your inspiration to want to write a song?

John: I don’t know if I’ve had a song directly inspired by a song from a concert, but my most memorable concert is when I went to see Fleetwood Mac in Washington D.C. last year in March and we had nosebleed tickets. I think it was in the top row of the venue because I waited so long to get them, and we got there, I misread the door time so I thought the show started an hour later than it did. We showed up thirty minutes late and they went to scan our tickets, and he was like, “Oh, wait here for a minute,”  and he stopped at the box office and waved us over, “So we have some extra seats. Do you want a free upgrade?” We were like, “Absolutely!” So we ended up 30 feet away from the stage, on the side. It was insane!

So being that close to Fleetwood Mac was like, “They’re real people. They’re right there!” And Mike Campbell from Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers was filling in for Lindsey Buckingham, so it was like you get a little bit of Tom Petty in there too. It was just crazy!

I definitely agree because I saw them last year in February and I never had the chance to see Tom Petty in concert, so to see Mike Campbell playing, I’m just sitting there like, “This is the closest thing I’m ever gonna get to seeing Tom Petty.”

John: Yeah, and then they did that tribute thing to him at the end, I thought I was gonna cry!

What do you miss the most about playing music live?

John: Definitely playing with a band. I’ve learned music and have done the vast majority of music playing by myself, just solo acoustic type things, but with a band, it just goes back to that energy. You have people to feed off and you have an audience. You can’t really get people going like you can with a full band with just an acoustic guitar, but just having people on stage with you sharing that moment, it’s like everybody comes together in those live shows with full bands and I really miss that community aspect of it.

What do you love the most about creating music as a whole?

John: My favorite thing would be letting a song go where it wants to go, so, like I said, I usually start with a lyric and build it from there. I usually don’t have a road map of what’s gonna happen with the whole song - Sometimes I do. Sometimes, I’ll sit down and very deliberately write a specific kind of thing, but normally, I just kind of let it go where it ends up going and so that’s where it goes for me. My really favorite part is when we start recording things and session musicians come in, and I don’t give a whole lot of guidance to the session musicians, at least to start with. Just watching it grow from a solo acoustic thing to more and more tracks being layered on and it finally turns a fully realized song. It’s awesome, it’s definitely my favorite part. Just watching the song grow from outside of my influence.

From what I’ve heard in your songs, it definitely works out very well.

John: Yeah, I’ve been very lucky to have some great session musicians play on the tracks.

Alright, that was all of the questions I had for you today and thank you again for joining. I had a great time interviewing you!

John: I’m glad that we got to do it!

'All I Got Was Band Merch' Series: SWEETTALKER

Most of us haven’t been to a live show in a solid 7 months. Festivals? I’m not sure any saw the light of day in 2020. As we continue to navigate the world amongst the Covid-19 pandemic, the All I Got Was Band Merch series documents how this time is affecting both artists AND fans alike.

Right off the bat, Nashville’s Sweettalker single release show was cancelled in March due to Covid. While we were all looking forward to the show, the band turned lemons into lemonade and really used this time wisely from online festivals, social takeovers, music videos, offering merch bundles, all the way to releasing their full EP, Paradise. In a way, not much has changed but Ryan and David can tell you more about that…

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How have you been making this time useful? (As a band and individually)

Ryan: It's been a pretty productive time for us, I think. We've been able to focus on creating videos and merchandise for our releases, while trying to learn as much as we can about marketing and getting our music out there in times such as these. I'm grateful for how we've all been able to adapt and work together through it all so far.  

Has songwriting been easier or harder, without seeing your other band mates?

David: It's been a challenge, but we've managed to stay productive. As an independent band, there's SO much work to be done after the music is written and recorded. Whether it's designing and ordering new merch, rehearsing, shooting videos, interviewing about the release, or brainstorming on what's up next, we're always working on something. New song ideas have begun to float around pretty well here lately as well. We've definitely got some new music planned for 2021. 

What do you miss most from the “normal” world, before COVID-19?

Ryan: SHOWS and traveling! We had all the glorious plans of touring and playing our new music this year as we put it out, but NOPE. 

During your free time, are there any bands/artists you have newly discovered or any old albums that you love, that you’ve been playing a bit more recently?”

David: I've really enjoyed listening to podcasts and audiobooks during this time actually. I'm learning a ton and I find it helps with staying inspired and motivated. I've also been jamming Harry Styles, Dua Lipa, Parcels, and Behold the Brave’s new stuff lately.

Have you picked up any new hobbies during this time?” 

Ryan: Yes, reading! I can get wound up pretty tight sometimes. The anxiety of either having too much work to do or with this new Covid world, seemingly nothing to look forward to can really get to me. I find reading helps me put my brain to work on something and helps it relax and become more creative and productive in other uses. 

How has your daily routine changed since COVID-19?

Ryan: We had spent a lot of time at the end of '18 and most of '19 either recording or working to pay for it, and had taken a break from playing shows to focus on our project; so in some ways, our routines haven't changed as much as many other musicians. However, now that the music is recorded and out in the world, it's killing us not to be able to play it live in the traditional sense. In the meantime, streaming shows and staying in touch with our friends and fans online will have to do. 

On the positive side, all of our doggos are thoroughly appreciating all the added attention and quality time. :P 

SHOP MERCH

‘All I Got Was Band Merch’ Series: Heavy Hearts

It’s 2020 and live music is at a standstill. It’s been about 7 months since most of us have experienced live music. Artists are getting creative with online performances and even selling masks for merch. WILD.

A year that looked to be stacked with concerts and festivals is now pay per view shows and a pile of band merch we can’t even properly show off. As we continue to navigate the world amongst the Covid-19 pandemic, the All I Got Was Band Merch series documents how this time is affecting both artists AND fans alike.

This week, we’re kicking things off with Ontario’s alt rock band, Heavy Hearts, who were named “one of the top bands leading an emo revival” by Alternative Press. Justin Glatt (vocals'/guitat) and Jamie Gorman (bass) walk us through how they’ve been dealing with quarantine both personally and as a band.

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How have you been making this time useful? (As a band and individually)

Justin: Musically, I’ve been learning more on recording at home. I’ve improved my set up a bit since quarantine and having other kinds of instrumentation available to me has helped come up with ideas that I might not have come up with on a guitar. Otherwise I’ve been exploring other ways of writing outside of music, and trying to find new ways of being creative.

Has songwriting been easier or harder, without seeing your other band mates?

Justin: It’s kind of come in waves. I feel like it can be easier to pursue ideas when we’re all together and can actively work on things in the moment. I had a period of time where I felt really productive, but at the same time it’s been difficult to find inspiration or motivation to keep creating. Some days I feel extremely detached from music, and on those days it kind of feels like I’ve lost a part of my identity.

What do you miss most from the “normal” word, before COVID-19?

Jamie: Friends. Definitely miss being able to get together as a group and practice, or just hang out and goof off. Just that human connection.

During your free time, are there any bands/artists you have newly discovered or any old albums that you love, that you’ve been playing a bit more recently?

Jamie: I have gotten super in to Haim’s new record, and I’ve fallen back in love with all of the older arcade fire releases lately.

Have you picked up any new hobbies during this time?

Jamie: I have been doing a lot of gardening. vegetables and herbs. I’ve been going for big bike rides, and I’m trying to learn how to reupholster furniture. Just trying to get up and out of the house.

How has your daily routine changed since COVID-19?

Jamie: My daily routine is out the window. Each morning my goal is just to make sure I do something, anything with my day. 

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During quarantine, Heavy Hearts released their LP, Room With a View. Give it a listen and check out their beautiful merch packages below. You can never have enough band merch!

SHOP MERCH

Hella Mega Tour and The Summer that Never Was

The crowd mills about in energetic anticipation. The air inside the venue is thick with the wanton energy often felt before shows, leaping from head to head of concert goer, as we packed ourselves in like sardines. The lights are low; the floor is sticky. The opener had killed it. 

Some young men that had driven up all the way from Baton Rouge joke and tease each other next to me. They’re drunk on excitement (and Miller light). They good natured-ly offer to hoist me up on their shoulders so I can see better and I joke that I’m afraid of heights. We’re Show Friends now. That unique type of friend you maintain only for the hour or two you spend sweating next to them in GA (although I’ve met some lifetime friends this way too.)

“You seen ‘em before?” 

I shake my head. 

“You’re in for a treat.”

A single chord rings out across the room, reverberating off each wall, like a bat caught in a belfry. 

The crowd’s attention is laser focused now on the stage as they erupt into cheers and howls, a cacophonous cry of unified joy. We are as a pack of coyotes, crying out into the night, each cheer multiplied by the voice adjacent. 

My new friends nudge my shoulder, smiles nearly cracking their faces in two. The joy of the night has only begun, and yet the crowd already moved as one unified being. 

This was 2017, my first experience seeing Green Day. My local stop on their tour had sold out in minutes, so I’d driven nearly 300 miles up to Tulsa to see them. It had been worth every penny and mile. I saved the confetti they dropped on our heads that night. 

I was looking forward to my second experience with Green Day this summer, on their Hella Mega Tour with Fall Out Boy and Weezer. I’d bought tickets in advance, even looked into hotels in the area. Wouldn’t be caught with my pants down twice.

 Much like many, many shows and concerts, Hella Mega Tour has been postponed to next summer, due to the pandemic. 

I’ve spent time grieving The Summer that Never Was, much like most of us avid concert goers. I find myself wondering if live music will ever be the same again. The idea of not being surrounded by hundreds of other fans with the same type of love for music and lust for freedom as me is heartbreaking, and yet the idea of being packed into an arena with thousands of people I don’t know terrifies me. 

But if there’s anything my limited experience in life has taught me, it’s that if you’re worried about the future, seek wisdom from the past. 

I was lamenting the loss of live music this year, when a friend of mine (who is an ever delightfully glass half full type of person) pointed out to me a little show called Toronto Rocks. Never heard of it? You might know it by one of its other names, like SARSStock or SARS-a-palooza. It was a benefit show put together to celebrate the end of the SARS outbreak in Canada. 500,000 people showed up, no one got SARS, and the world was reminded that although pandemics, outbreaks and awful things happen, when the proper precautions are taken, and we heal, we can go back to doing the things that we love. 

My tickets to Hella Mega Tour remain, pinned to my cork board, a reminder of the good things to come. So I live in the now and look forward to the future, and imagine the satisfying sound of those perforated slips of joy getting torn at the turnstiles. 

Tom Petty - "Wildflowers & All The Rest"

You’ve heard at least one Tom Petty song in your lifetime. Whether you heard it out in public or you heard it while in the backseat of your dad’s car, the bottom line is that at least one Tom Petty song has been a part of the soundtrack of your life.

I can say that Tom Petty’s Wildflowers is the soundtrack to my life.

Speaking of that album, Wildflowers & All The Rest was finally released today. Nearly 26 years ago, the iconic fifteen-track Tom Petty record, Wildflowers, was released. In fact, it was originally set to be a double album with 25 tracks in total, but with the advice from the record label, it was cut down to one album with 15 tracks. In June of this year, it was announced that the long awaited Wildflowers & All The Rest  box set was finally going to be released.

Starting on track 16, we get to the additional songs that were meant to be on the double-album, starting off with Something Could Happen and ending with Hung Up and Overdue, plus the home recordings. 

First and foremost, it’s very clear to see that these outtakes truly have that beautiful and magical touch that the original Wildflowers cut has, which is what makes Tom’s songwriting as special and unique. Each song tells a story that people around the world could resonate with.

One song in particular, Leave Virginia Alone, was made very popular by Rod Stewart’s version, but when you listen to Tom sing it, you can tell that the song really does belong to him and that it is way better than Rod Stewart’s version. It’s only a fact.

While each song is truly beautiful, the songs that stood out to me the most were Something Could Happen, Climb That Hill Blues, Confusion Wheel, and Harry Green. There was something about those four songs that definitely added a deeper meaning to Wildflowers and made the album especially beautiful. They add to the legacy of the album itself. 

Next, we get to the home recordings, which starts with a previously unheard track titled There Goes Angela (Dream Away). When you go further down that section and delve into more and more of the home recordings, you really start to truly fall in love with this set a little bit more than before. The home recordings of each song, including one true Wildflowers classic, You Don’t Know How It Feels, are nothing short of amazing. 

Overall, this album is a gem and the ultimate tribute to Tom Petty. It really defines the kind of songwriter and storyteller he was. It’s been shown again and again that his legacy will forever live on, and this box set really proves that in every way. Tom himself would be very proud.

In the 26 years since its first release, Wildflowers still connects with people to this very day, even with people of the new generation. It’s easy to see why people still manage to connect with it - it’s relatable. These additional songs are just as easy to connect with as the songs on the original cut of the album. 

Thank you, Tom, for everything you have ever given us. Your music and your songwriting is a treasure through and through. As the saying goes, 

“You belong somewhere you feel free.” 

'All To Myself' - Soup! Collabs With Meredith Adelaide For A Pop Pep Talk

Amidst lockdown, London based Italo-British experimental duo SOUP! collaborated with American singer and multimedia artist Meredith Adelaide to bring us abstract pop track, ‘All to Myself’.

A sort of how-to, ‘All to Myself’ tells a story of how allowing yourself to let go will let the right things boomerang back to you. “There should be no convincing ourselves that something is right for us. Letting go can be a meditation to help me gain clarity about the elements of what I want from what I’m letting go of," shared Meredith.

Though created remotely, SOUP!’s instrumentals pair seamlessly with Meredith’s vocals. “The track began with a kind of pitched-up vocal loop. To date, I have no idea what it is or where it came from. We jammed over this as a band and developed the current groove. Loads of crazy arpeggiators and guitar loops were added in the process. We really wanted it to sound as mad as possible,” explained Matt.

The tracks sweeping synths and mesmerizing beat make for the perfect anthem to our lockdown days. And when we tell you they sound like the perfect fusion of Talking Heads and LCD Soundsystem, we MEAN IT. But we’ll let you decide for yourself…

LISTEN IF YOU LIKE: LCD Soundsystem, Talking Heads, Soulwax, Radiohead, ChkChkChk(!!!), Atoms For Peace

ABOUT SOUP!

SOUP! began in 2019 from the encounter of award winning producer Gigi Piscitelli and drummer Matt Hardy. Gigi cut his teeth training under Alan Moulder and Flood working on records for the likes of Goldfrapp, The Killers and the Charlatans. He produced Dele Sosimi, from Feta Kuti’s Egypt 80 and he is now working on the forthcoming LP by London’s Afro-Punk pioneers Ibibio Sound Machine. Matt is a young veteran of the British contemporary Indie-Folk scene. He provided the drumbeats for artists like the celebrated singer-songwriter Jake Houlsby and Folk chanteuse Ajimal.

FOLLOW SOUP!
 INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

ABOUT MEREDITH

Primarily a self-photographer, Meredith Adelaide touches multiple disciplines as an independent artist. A union-actor and filmmaker with a decade-long modelling career behind them, Meredith is a well-rounded artist, now adding their voice to the world of music. In their art - much of which is released through the creative platform 'Patreon' - Meredith explores themes of grief, loss, self accountability, identity, unconditional love and sexuality.

CANNXN Captures The Emotions of 2020 with 'Uncomfortable'

At a time where emotions are in disarray, it’s easy to feel, well, uncomfortable.

In her latest release, Seattle artist, CANNXN, channeled that energy by exploring the isolation, anxiety and overthinking that the world’s current status has brought upon us all. ‘Uncomfortable’ is a catchy, pop-track that hits you in the feels with it’s harmonies and textured vocals. The track’s chorus hits and you’re transported to an ethereal space. Your eyes are closed and you’re dancing amongst all of your emotions.

Uncomfortable. But not alone.

“I wrote the track over my time in quarantine when I felt I was going crazy. Every hour of the day began to feel the same, and I knew every corner of my bedroom all too well. There was nothing left to do than sit with my own thoughts, and every muscle in my body was tense as I sat in my room and began to overthink every aspect of my life,” recalls CANNXN. “I was listening to a lot of songs with darker textures at the time, and wanted to create something that sounded like the anxiety that was consuming me. When it came time to produce the track, I incorporated lots of different textures and harmonies within it, and it felt like I was really encapsulating being uncomfortable in my own body.”

LISTEN IF YOU LIKE: PVRIS, Against The Current, Maty Noyes

ABOUT CANNXN

“CANNXN is about capturing lightning in a bottle. Based out of Seattle, WA, CANNXN is the homegrown musical project of singer & songwriter Megan Cannon. She has been writing and performing locally for the past five years, and has garnered a reputation for interweaving conversational lyrics with soundscapes that are both emotional and vibrant. 

Born and raised in Puyallup, WA, a small town South of Seattle, Megan spent most of her middle school and high school days writing and producing songs in her bedroom. Inspired by pop-punk acts like All Time Low and Fall Out Boy, she started writing on the acoustic guitar and later moved to crafting larger productions after finding modern alternative acts such as PVRIS and Halsey. Prone to overthinking, songwriting served as an outlet to sort through the experiences of her adolescence. Her debut single, “Outer Space” was released on July 10th and features analog synths, thumping bass, and delicate vocals.”

FOLLOW CANNXN
 INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

My Way, Soon - A Love Letter from Greta Van Fleet to their "Peaceful Army"

October 8th, 2020 - 10:50pm

As I paced back and forth in my room, my phone chimed. 

A dear friend of mine notified me that Greta Van Fleet’s ‘My Way, Soon.’ had officially arrived. Within a matter of seconds, I placed my earbuds in my ears and hit play. As the spine-tingling intro began to fill up my senses, I shut my eyes. For four minutes and fifteen seconds, Greta Van Fleet made me feel like I was on the road again. Throughout the duration of the song, I had the biggest smile upon my face and I had goosebumps that traveled from head to toe. I said to myself, “this band has just struck gold.” The start of the new era exceeded every single one of my expectations. This brand new single is nothing like anything they’ve ever released before. After spending three memorable years on the road, they recorded a masterpiece that came directly from their hearts. Greta Van Fleet is getting ready to soar new heights and they are bringing their fanbase along with them. 

“I’ve seen many people

There are so many people

Some are much younger people

And some are so old

I’ve seen many places

There are so many places

And where are the people going

Will they choose the road.”

‘My Way, Soon’ is the anthem for all of the music lovin’ wanderlust souls. 

In my eyes, this song is a love letter from the band to the Peaceful Army. One thing I know for sure, there isn’t another fanbase like “The Peaceful Army.” This fanbase is truly one of a kind and has a heartfelt connection with the band.

Throughout the years, Greta Van Fleet has formed a deep-rooted and dedicated fanbase. A fanbase that without hesitation chooses the road. Wherever the wind blows Greta Van Fleet, the Peaceful Army follows. Traveling is a way of life for Greta, but it has also become a lifestyle for the Peaceful Army. Fans from across the country and all throughout the world will drop everything for them. The Peaceful Army possess souls that crave the road and are sincerely vagabonds at heart. They desire to be where the music is.

You want to know why? Greta Van Fleet carries an electrifying enchantment that you can’t discover anywhere else. If you ask anyone in the Peaceful Army, “why do you travel for them?" They will give you similar responses and have their own special reasons for doing so. Truth be told, it’s something you have to experience for yourself to understand. Every single night, it’s a celebration of love and revelry. It’s a musical love fest that leaves you feeling invincible and exuberant from start to finish. Where you find yourself standing next to people you’ve never met before and somehow feel connected on a spiritual level. Swaying back and forth with kindred spirits and belting out the words to your favorite songs is a gratifying feeling. 

John Denver said it best,

“Music does bring people together. It allows us to experience the same emotions. People everywhere are the same in heart and spirit. No matter what language we speak, what color we are, the form of our politics or the expression of our love and our faith, music proves: We are the same.”

Greta Van Fleet has an undying passion for the road and their fanbase. It’s evident that they care deeply about their fans and want to make a difference in this world. For years, the band has left many fans speechless by sending ‘surprise packages’ in the mail. Whether its concert tickets, handwritten song lyrics, or a picture of the band. Greta Van Fleet never fails to make their fanbase feel loved and on top of the world. ‘My Way, Soon’ is a reminder of how much the band adores the road. Just as much as the fans do. As the years go by, I can envision the Peaceful Army growing larger and the band making triumphant moves in the music world. Being able to grow with a band and being a part of something that’s bigger than yourself is such a blessing. 

Greta Van Fleet, you are my muse. I wouldn’t be writing this piece if it wasn’t for you. I wouldn’t be pursuing a degree in Music Business and Journalism if you wouldn’t have given me the courage to do so. As I’m listening to ‘My Way, Soon’ with tears in my eyes, I’m reminiscent of the time I’ve spent on the road following your music. The time I’ve spent traveling the country for you molded me as a young woman. I’m not the same person I was when I first found you in 2018. I was desperately searching for my purpose on this earth and didn’t feel like I belonged anywhere.

You’ve given me a home and because of you. “I’ve found my freedom.”

To the brand new fans who are discovering Greta Van Fleet for the first time, welcome to the thrill ride of your life. Get ready to be filled with abundant joy. Your world is about to be rocked. 

To the fans who have been around for many years, here's to a brand new era that's going to bring us closer than ever before.

This is going to be a season in our lives that we will never forget. I cannot wait to sing, “I choose the road.” with every single one of you. May the Rock N’ Roll Revelry never end. 

Listen to ‘My Way, Soon’ on our Rock My Soul playlist on Spotify.

Machine Gun Kelly Brings on the Nostalgia with Tickets To My Downfall

Paramore, My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Mayday Parade, All-Time Low, Flyleaf, Pierce the Veil. Those are just some of the Pop-punk bands I was constantly listening to ten years ago.

On September 25th, rapper Machine Gun Kelly officially went from rap to a highly nostalgic Pop-punk sound, with his new album, Tickets to my Downfall.  In it’s prime in the early 2000’s, the pop-punk scene consisted of artists like Blink-182, Fall Out Boy, Green Day, Good Charlotte, Paramore, All-Time Low, The All-American Rejects. You get it.  Every time you turned on the radio during that decade, you heard at least one of their songs.

Throughout the 2010’s decade though, there wasn’t that much attention surrounding pop-punk. In fact, the mainstream attention towards the genre seemed to have declined. Sure, you already had most of the artists I listed who were still making music. New bands were still popping up, like the talented Waterparks, 5 Seconds of Summer, Knuckle Puck, and Neck Deep. But the mainstream eye on pop-punk had died down.

And then Machine Gun Kelly comes in and brings it back… Saving 2020.

Back in May, MGK released the first single off Tickets to my Downfall,  titled Bloody Valentine. Upon first listening to the song, I immediately reverted back to my middle school/high school days listening to pop-punk and that nostalgic feeling completely took over.

Over the next few months, the releases of Concert for Aliens and My Ex’s Best Friend only increased my excitement for this album. These new tracks added to that strong nostalgic feeling, and Travis Barker on the drums for the full album, actually, only heightened it.

Finally, the album was released on September 25th! While waiting for this release, I was already preparing myself for a full trip down memory lane and boy, was it a crazy 36 minutes or what?

When listening to the album, I felt like I was taken back in time, a time where my iPod nano was loaded with pop-punk. As directed by MGK himself, listen to the album from start to finish. As I listened, each track got better and better. I enjoyed the hell out of his duet with Halsey on the fifth track, forget me too. Then, I found myself crying after listening to the album’s last track, play this when I’m gone.

Overall, I think this genre really fits Machine Gun Kelly’s style and voice. I am really looking forward to hearing more of him within this genre. I personally think he can bring pop-punk back to mainstream popularity and open doors for all new pop-punk bands.

Thank you, Machine Gun Kelly, for bringing the spotlight back onto a fantastic genre. 

My Favorite Tracks (in no particular order):

forget me too (featuring Halsey)

kiss kiss

lonely

concert for aliens

If you love Tickets To My Downfall just as much as us, you won’t want to miss Machine Gun Kelly’s livestream at the legendary Roxy on October 1st. Travis Barker will join him on stage to perform the album in its entirety. This will be the first time many of these songs will be performed on a concert stage. Then, on Thursday, October 8 MGK will perform HOTEL DIABLO, his 2019 album. You don’t want to miss these shows, as they will not be available after they air.

GET TICKETS HERE.

Rock N' Roll Revelry at the Rocks with Greta Van Fleet

To celebrate the one year anniversary of Greta Van Fleet’s legendary Red Rocks shows, I’d love to walk down memory lane with all of you.

We are going all the way back to September 2019. Now, I’d like to start off by saying that I’m a firm believer in divine alignment. I believe that by trusting your intuition and pursuing what your soul calls you to do, the direction of your life can change within an instant. 

I’ve never been the type to truly dive into the deep end. Growing up, the word spontaneous wasn’t a part of my vocabulary. In the past, I've desired to travel and explore this world, however, I always made up excuses. After having a heart to heart with my mother on whether or not I should go, she told me, “Angel, you have got to live your life. Travel as much as you can and pursue whatever makes you feel alive.”  As she poured her words of wisdom upon me, it was settled. 

I was going to fly 862 miles for a band. Something I had never done before. 

After that, everything seemed to fall into perfect alignment. At a rapid speed, I pulled out money from my savings. I paid for my concert tickets, scored a flight for $90 roundtrip, and secured a place to rest my head at night. Before I knew it, I was on my United flight staring out my window at the land below me. That was the first time I had ever traveled alone. Truthfully, I enjoyed the solitude. I was soaring through the clouds and John Denver’s calming voice was keeping me company. 

As soon as the plane landed, my heart fluttered and I felt a rush of adrenaline. After a few minutes, I finally got off the plane. I sped walked my way to baggage claim, met up with the wonderful people I was staying with, and hopped into an Uber. From then on, the Colorado adventures commenced. Around mid-afternoon, we made our way to a park where we were having a meetup. This was the first “meet up” I had ever been a part of. As time went by, a handful of music lovers began to show up. The atmosphere was full of love and light. Guitars were strumming as we had great conversations and raved about the following night. Around the end of the meetup, we walked down a path that led us to a spot where we all listened to ‘Age of Man’ together. Once the song began, we all stared off into the glorious hills and shared a moment. Absolutely no one spoke a single word. Josh’s voice was the only sound that traveled throughout the atmosphere. My eyes filled up with tears as I came to the realization that I was exactly where I was meant to be. 

 As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Origin hotel for another gathering. Let me tell you something about this specific meet up. That night, I eagerly walked towards the area where the event was taking place, and immediately I was welcomed with open arms. Before finding “my people”, I had always been a wallflower. Someone who watched people live their lives, but stayed on the sidelines. That night, things changed. I grabbed a margarita at the bar, conversed with a bunch of sweet souls, and let my guard completely down. Although I was surrounded by “strangers”, I quickly began to view them as family. Every single person had a special glow upon them. Their love for music was contagious and you could feel it in your bones. Greta Van Fleet’s lyrics were flowing out of the mouths of every single person in the room. I thought to myself…

“this is only the beginning.. wait until tomorrow.”

The following morning, I woke up with the deepest butterflies in my stomach. I remember glancing at my reflection in the mirror and having to remind myself that it all wasn’t a fever dream. I turned on some tunes, got dressed, and headed out the door. I was in an Uber by 7am and made my way to the beloved venue. As I chatted with my driver, all I could think was

“IM ABOUT TO MEET SOME OF MY CLOSEST FRIENDS!” 

“WE ARE SEEING OUR FAVORITE BAND TOGETHER!”  

“IM SEEING GRETA VAN FLEET TONIGHT!”

As soon as we approached the venue, my eyes widened and my mouth fell open. It took quite some time for me to process what was right in front of me. I could feel the tears starting to form in my eyes. Everything became REAL within a matter of seconds. Immediately, I messaged my friends and let them know that I had finally arrived. As I entered the venue, I found myself in awe yet again. For a moment, time stood still as I took the deepest breath and sat down to cherish such a historical place. All you could hear were the morning birds, and the sounds of the crew setting up the stage.

As I observed the stage from the top of the venue, I began to envision all of the musicians that had performed there. John Denver, The Grateful Dead, and The Beatles are just to name a few. The very thought of my favorite guys performing there next made me unbelievably proud. I could imagine how the band and their loved ones must have felt. After spending quite some time soaking it all in, it was time to find my girls. I had never been so determined to find people in my whole life. After walking down a million steps, and taking a few turns... I found them. I ran with all my might and hugged them tightly. Embracing the people that I had formed a deep bond with and actually being able to look them in the eyes was unbelievable to me. We went from being “virtual friends” to “real-life friends.” We were all ecstatic to be together and to encounter the magic that Red Rocks beholds. Throughout the duration of our day, we were all in a daze. We pranced around the venue like it was our second home and we had the best time doing it. We took a multitude of pictures and spent time enjoying each other's company. 

As the sun began to set, it was time for doors to open. My heart was pounding as I sprinted behind my friends. Getting to our spot was hazy and my breathing was irregular. All that our hearts desired was to grab ahold of the rope. Once we did, we lost our absolute minds. I glanced at the stage, held the rope in my hands and we all looked at each other with huge smiles. I’m more than certain the security guard believed we were out of our minds. However, we were on cloud nine.

The night began with the wonderful Shannon and the Clams. In my opinion, I believe they were incredible openers for Greta Van Fleet. The immaculate vibes they gave off during the duration of their set still stick with me to this day. I thoroughly enjoyed swaying back and forth to their songs. Songs such as ‘Ozma’ and ‘The Boy’ hold that special place in my heart. Once Shannon and the Clams exited the stage, the butterflies in my stomach came back. I took the time to turn around and look out at the entire venue. IT WAS A PACKED HOUSE. You could just feel every single person's anticipation.

After a good half hour, the lights went dim and David Ruffin’s, ‘My Whole World Ended’ began to play. What I felt at that moment in time, I had never felt before. The tears began to flow and my heart was overjoyed. Within a matter of seconds, they were going to be standing before me. The first person I saw was Josh, and he ran out with white roses in his hands. Josh threw the white roses, and I will never forget being fixated on one specific rose as it twirled toward me. As the rose landed on my chest, I was in a state of shock. 

“GOOD EVENING!”

Josh yelled at the top of his lungs. Jake began to shred whilst Josh welcomed the crowd. He had the widest smile on his face. You could just tell that Josh was soaking it all in and cherishing the moment. He had a glimmer in his eye that showed how elated he was. There’s something about the way Josh wails that never fails to send shivers down my spine. His vocals carried all the way to the top of the venue and reverberated off of the rocks.

The opening to ‘The Cold Wind’ brought the crowd to an uproar, and it was within seconds that the crowd was jumping around without a care in the world. Every single soul inside of the venue was engulfed by the power of music. We all became unified as one that night. From start to finish, they had the crowd in the palm of their hands. Danny’s drum solo during ‘Safari Song’ was unbelievable. You could feel the drum beats rumbling inside your chest. I was absolutely floored at how he played. Watching it online is one thing, but actually witnessing it with your own two eyes is a completely different experience. There is a reason why he is called the heartbeat of the fleet. He is such a treasure and a passionate musician. 

Throughout the course of the show, my spirit was bubbling up and over with exhilaration. What sets the Red Rocks shows apart from all the rest was the cosmic energy both nights carried. It was honestly one of a kind and the energy exchanged between the crowd and the band was out of this world. Night one, Josh was notorious for his speeches. He dedicated ‘The Music Is You’ to his beautiful mother, Karen Kiszka. As he stood and sang in the center of the stage, I couldn’t help but envision John Denver looking down upon him smiling. The atmosphere was warm and the pure love that transpired was palpable. I know that’s a moment they’ll remember for a lifetime.

Before Flower Power, Josh gave a quick speech and he said, “We feel you and I hope you can feel us too.” I’ve never felt deeply connected and beloved by a band before them. Josh, Jake, Sammy, and Danny could sense the electricity and passion from the crowd. In return, they poured out their love and admiration right back to us. During Jake's solo in ‘Flower Power’, Josh made his way over to our section. We all began to yell his name whilst blowing kisses and waving at him. I’ll never forget calling out his name and making direct eye contact with him. His aura was shining brighter than the sun and his eyes pierced through the core of my being. That moment will replay in my head for as long as I live. The way he interacts with the crowd and makes everyone feel valued is truly beautiful.

Moment after moment, I found myself breathless. During ‘Age of Man’, I vividly remember gazing upon the starry night sky as Sam played the keys. Sam goes into a trancelike state when he plays his instruments. There is such a profound passion that takes over his body when he’s in the moment. The music flows through his fingertips. My eyes wandered over to the shining red rocks and the “it starts in the toes, travels throughout the body and goes out the head” moment happened to me. I began to feel incredibly grateful that I was alive. To have breath in my lungs and a heartbeat. To be surrounded by thousands of kindred spirits who love music like I do. This is where I bring up divine alignment again. Trusting in the universe and following the music led me to that very moment in time. 

It was destiny.

One part of the show that scarred me in the best way possible was ‘Black Flag Exposition’. You can never truly prepare yourself for Black Flag. Especially if it’s your first time seeing it live. To feast one’s eyes on Jake Kiszka shredding for the gods is intoxicating. He wields his guitar like a sword and has the crowds undivided attention. That young man is truly living out his life purpose. He was born to be the guitar man and he’s a legend in the making.

As the night continued, I thought to myself “it couldn’t get any better than this.” Oh, how I was sorely mistaken.  Once the encore arrived, the levels were turned up a notch. The exploding uproar that traveled throughout the venue carried right into ‘Lover Leaver (Taker Believer)’. This performance was one for the books. For a moment, it felt like I stepped into a time machine and went back in time to the 1970s. Greta Van Fleet is a solid reminder of how Rock n’ Roll isn’t dead. To this day, it’s still living and breathing among us. The show concluded with Lay Down (Candles in the Rain) blaring over the sound system. Their rendition is groundbreaking and a rock n’ roll masterpiece.  The band waved their goodbyes to the crowd and made their way backstage.

I had to take a hot minute to gather myself. What we had just experienced was extraordinary, and I was allowing myself to soak it all in. When we were ready, my friends and I grabbed our things and started to head out. Little did I know,  fate was going to lead us to Karen Kiszka herself. My friends and I had the honor of cherishing a few minutes with her. Seeing my best friend Em and Mama Kiszka having a touching moment warmed my heart. Karen gave the most tender hugs and had such a warm glow upon her. When she speaks to you, her words are genuine and from the heart. She makes you feel instantly comfortable and at ease. I’ll always cherish the time we had. We briefly spoke about how proud we all were of the boys and how terrific the show was. Once we said our goodbyes to Mama Kiszka, we exited the venue.

Although I had one more night under the stars ahead of me, my friends were actually leaving the following morning. I truly never wanted the night to end. I gave all of them the strongest squeeze and told them how much I loved them. After I left the venue, I made my way back to the Origin. My soul sister, Ariana sang ‘Anthem’ whilst Rex played the guitar. We were all coming down from our post-concert high. Basking in the glory of all that we had just experienced. That night at the Origin is where I formed a deep bond with my friend Ariana. We spent ages talking about music and our lives. There were no awkward pauses or moments of tension. Everything just flowed seamlessly. It’s beautiful to me how music can lead you to individuals you were always destined to cross paths with. How can an old soul from Australia and a music lovin’ gal from Texas become best friends instantly? The power of music. 

Day two arrived, and I made it to the venue ready to thrive one more time. That day, I waited in line with completely different people and was on the other side of the venue. Still, I wouldn’t change a single thing about the whole day. I could hear soundcheck crystal clear. Being able to hear the band play from outside of the venue was a completely different experience. I began to imagine the outside of the venue the night prior. Red Rocks must have illuminated and shined bright for all of the city to see. I spent the day anticipating what was to come in the evening time. I desired to feel the rush of adrenaline pumping through my veins. Once the time finally arrived, “concert Angel” came back for round two. The setlist was exactly the same, but that didn’t make the show any less special. I felt unbelievably blessed to spend another night with my favorite band. 

Those unforgettable three days I spent in Morrison, Colorado changed me. I know many will have questions and say, 

“How can four young guys from Frankenmuth, Michigan change your life?” 

“Why would you spend your hard-earned money on a concert?” 

“Why would you fly _________ miles for a band?”

Some might even go to the extent and say that I’m wasting my time or I should be living in the “real world.”  Well, I have a response to all of that. Greta Van Fleet was there when I lost all of my hope. When I was at my lowest point, their music found me. ‘Flower Power’ is the song that gave me the freedom and the courage to start over again. To truly start living again and not take a single day for granted. I spent my hard-earned money because I knew deep down inside that Red Rocks was meant to be my first encounter with them. Let me tell you something, it was worth every damn penny. I flew 862 miles with peace in my heart knowing that I was going home. Where is home? Home is where the music is. 

For as long as I live, I’m going to be on the road following the music. Wherever that may take me. I’m looking forward to meeting brand new people and exploring this big world. I await the day I can be inside of a venue and be a part of something bigger than myself. 

When the entire crowd is singing a song word for word, and an artist goes silent. I live for those moments. The look upon their face when they come to the realization that their words have touched more people than they can fathom. It’s heavenly. Live music is a bonding experience that ties people together for a lifetime. We enter venues one way and leave completely different. Live music can heal the hearts of the broken and restore hope the lost. 

As my lovely friend Rex says, “it’s our responsibility to spread the message of peace, love, unity, and equality to every person we come in contact with.” I firmly stand by that. Every single day, my mission is to be a beacon of light to somebody. To always root for the underdog and be a listening ear to those who feel unheard. This band, their message, and their music is an influential reason why I’m the person I am today.

Thank you,

Greta Van Fleet.

For everything.

Your music will always be a huge part of who I am.

Happy One Year anniversary to the Red Rocks shows.

I’m hopeful that you’ll be back there again someday and we’ll all be united once again.

To many more years of rock n’ roll,

Angel Evans

Here’s to the William Millers of the World; A Celebration of Almost Famous' 20 Years

“So Russell… what do you love about music?” - “To begin with, everything,”

“I always tell the girls, never take it seriously, if you never take it seriously, you never get hurt, if you never get hurt, you always have fun, and if you ever get lonely, just go to the record store and visit your friends.”

“They don't even know what it is to be a fan, you know? To truly love some silly little piece of music, or some band, so much that it hurts.”

September 13th marks 20 years since the release of the timeless classic, Almost Famous, written and directed by Cameron Crowe. From the famous ‘Tiny Dancer’  bus scene to ‘Tangerine’ by Led Zeppelin playing as the film closes to ‘Feel Flows’ by The Beach Boys in the ending credits, it’s perfect for any rock ’n’ roll lover.

Not only is this a quintessential film for music lovers everywhere, it’s an inspiration to those wanting to follow after a certain career path: a music journalist.

If you’re an aspiring music journalist or you’re living and breathing the dream of being a music journalist in this generation, chances are this film was a big inspiration for you to take that step forward into this career path. At least, that was the case for me at 17.

At the age of 12, I knew I wanted to be a writer. At that same age, my passion for rock ’n’ roll had been ignited after I saw The Runaways and began listening to their music. It wouldn’t be long before I decided that I wanted to be a journalist. However, at the time, I was unaware of Almost Famous or music journalism. 

Now, fast forward a few years. In 2014, just over 14 years after the film was released, I was a junior in high school. One day after school, I was looking for a movie to watch on Netflix, when I came across Almost Famous. Little did I know that this movie would change everything for me.

Halfway through the movie, I began to fall in love with the characters, the music, and the storyline. I even found myself wishing that Stillwater was a real band. Throughout the entire film, one theme seemed to stick - INSPIRATION. Seeing a 15 year old, William Miller, go on this journey with Stillwater, a band he loved, and just live life as a music journalist sparked an inspiration in me. In that moment, I remembered thinking, “This is what I want to do.” 

Needless to say, Almost Famous was a huge game changer for me as a then-17 year old aspiring writer. To this day, I credit this movie as my inspiration and now, I AM a music journalist. If I had never found this movie, I wouldn’t be where I am now. William Miller taught me to follow my dreams and I have done just that.

This film is perfect for aspiring writers of any kind. Maybe you know you want to write music or maybe you have no idea which route you want to take. Regardless, if you’re looking for that writer’s spark, turn on the TV and go visit this film.

To all of the aspiring William Miller’s out there, you’ve got this. YOU can interview your favorite band one day.

Here’s to the William Millers of the world.

PREMIERE: Natalia Soul Releases New Single 'Damned If I Do'

NATALIA SOUL

What’s your “Damned If You Do” moment?

Argentina born now Nashville based, Natalia Soul blends soulful vocals, South American rhythm, frothy jazz chords, and pop melodies to bring you a relatable story you can swing, sway, and vibe to. Out now, ‘Damned If I Do” is the first single release off of her upcoming EP ‘Hurt You to be released late this Fall.

From the very first chord, it feels sexy, sultry, and warm. Dancing deeper into the track, Natalia’s alluring vocals slide in laying down the truth of the matter - in some situations, we’re damned if we do, damned if we don’t. So we might as well continue dancing and do what want, right?

"It's a "I feel you" type of song. We can all relate to knowing that one person that fascinates us and we're more obsessed than in love. We know it's going nowhere and still we crave the rush of adrenaline they give us. And really, it makes you feel like you can't win. If you're in it you suffer, If you end it it hurts!"

Tune into Natalia’s Instagram today for an IGTV exclusive performance of ‘Damned If I Do’

The composer turned singer-songwriter explores the sounds of her native country, Argentina, and brings about an infectious combo of catchy intricate melodies, highly rhythmic guitars and clever yet memorable lyrics. Natalia Soul has spent the last handful of years honing her skills as a songwriter in Nashville, TN. and rediscovering herself as a guitar player. This unique mix of cultures makes for an eclectic, exotic artist that is constantly seeking, evolving and pouring it all into her art. 

FOLLOW NATALIA SOUL
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The Pandemic Project: Tobe Nwigwe [REVIEW]

It was late May or sometime in June. I was scrolling through Instagram when something stopped me. The protests for Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, and Breonna Taylor were in full effect and I was stopped in my tracks by a video of a man dressed in an off white “suit” and gold fronts on his teeth hoping that his peoples get home tonight. Then in July, another video was released on the gram - same dress and now he was demanding justice for Breonna Taylor and Elijah McClain, but in a song. I watched the first one repeatedly. Each time floored. Each time the message so clear and obvious. Each time frustratingly crying. I didn’t know who Tobe Nwigwe was, never heard of him, but now I’m glad I was stopped in my tracks. 

Tobe was a former division one football player who got injured and pretty much ended his football career. Tobe is also Nigerian American. His name Tobe is short for “Tobechukwu,” the Igbo word for “Praise God.” With a career in football all but gone he turned to hip-hop. In 2017 he dropped “Tobe from the Swat” then over the course of the next few years he released singles and a series of albums “The Originals, Three Originals, More Originals, and Fouriginals.” Each one, for me, more interesting than the last. And Interesting is putting it mildly. What he does is put words over beats created by his producer Nell, and when I say words that’s what I mean. Tobe is not doing typical hip-hop. Or hip-hop that would be expected. While he can do that, and has, there is something more unique to his style. Something that in terms of cooking: sure, you can season with pepper and salt but try paprika occasionally or cumin. Nell and him, along with his wife Fat (and no I’m not being rude that’s what Tobe calls her), are adding the paprika or cumin to their music. More plainly it is funky, and different. Which is what reeled me in.

The uniqueness to what he and Nell are creating is something to behold. I’ve never truly heard anything like this. But I can tell there is a lot of inspiration that they probably draw from. And, every musician or artist, is a product of those that inspired them. Whether it be that one song they heard that one time, or that one artist that whenever they put out a record you are buying it. Or singing in a choir or picking up your brother’s guitar for the first time, whatever it was that inspired you, you are a product of that. Those are the obvious, but it is what Tobe and Nell do with that inspiration that is so unique. His delivery on “The Pandemic Project” is slow and methodical. Purposeful with each word delivered. While Nell lays the sonic foundation for which Tobe can draw from. I’m taking a little artistic liberty with that last statement because I’m not sure how their music gets created. Everyone’s process is unique to them, and maybe it is as simple as Nell looping a beat and Tobe finding the right words. Regardless, however that process takes shape what comes from it is what we have, and what we have are six songs that are powerfully poignant. 

The songs are honest. The six, technically five songs, are powerful. The project is short. Being so I was able to sort of live in it. Get myself inside the songs which is fun for me. Listening repeatedly. Having the music and words seep into my bloodstream and infect me with delicious emotions. That’s what I love. I could go track by track, and there is a standout track that was the reason for this whole me wanting to write about this. But rather than mention it you the reader should take the half hour or fifteen minutes and just listen to it. Music is a different experience for each listener. Rather than leave you hanging also the track is “Make it Home Tonight (featuring David Michael Wyatt).”

In the vain of these songs I would be doing an injustice to the ones that need justice for those who have been taken from us. George Floyd, Elijah McClain, Vanessa Guillen, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor. And, those are just the ones we know. The album concludes with “Pandemic Outro” where Tobe, his wife Fat, and Nell have a conversation about the album. It is a peek behind the curtain that we don’t often get. When has an artist on their own album ever had a discussion with the people that helped produce the album on how the songs get made and even the meaning behind some of them?  That is just one part of the outro. And said outro was funny and cool to listen as well. 

I just want you all to make it home is a sentence that lingers inside me throughout the listening to the album. This album drives home the systemic change that we need to have happen. I’m tired of seeing my brothers and sisters of color being killed for some truly dumb reasons. And I say brothers and sisters because we all bleed red and because we are all of one race, the human one. I’m tired and I’m not a person of color, I’m not a brother or uncle or father to any of the people that have been killed. I can’t imagine how the black community feels or any of the communities where this is happening. I try to though. I will continue to try, because I will sleep when I die. 

I am grateful to have found Nell, Fat, and Tobe’s music. For saying things that are in my head. For putting out something musically that isn’t hard to grasp. And for one simple word it is just, awesome. Listen to Tobe and Nell. Give them the time. Much love to you all. Arrest the killers of Breonna Taylor. 

FOLLOW TOBE NWIGWE

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Website

View our Starter’s Guide on how to act as an ally HERE.

Dirty Honey: LockDown LIVE at The Viper Room Review

Photos + Words by Baylee Avery

We’re living in a time where livestream concerts are a thing that’s happening during the pandemic, and it’s the closest we’ll get to going to a concert this year. Last month, it was announced that The Viper Room was going to be hosting their first livestream concert from the legendary Los Angeles nightclub - and that band performing was going to be Dirty Honey, in which the show was appropriately titled, “Dirty Honey Lockdown Live From The Viper Room”. It was also in conjunction with Los Angeles based rock radio station, KLOS-FM.

This past year, Dirty Honey has experienced a great deal of success. Even being the first unsigned band to land Number One on the Billboard Rock Chart. 

“We are Dirty Honey!” Lead singer, Marc LaBelle says into the microphone, as the show starts. Right before they hit the stage, the livestream kicks off with all four members (drummer, Corey Coverstone being the only member to be wearing a mask on stage) proposing a toast. 

We’re off to a great start. The band starts off with Scars. Bringing in an amazing impression, this first song in the performance is an excellent start and is already bringing in the impression that we’re in for a great show. 

Next, we have a brand new song titled Gypsy. Just from listening to this song, it’s very promising. Maybe it could possibly be a future single? The vocals Marc brings to the song, as always, is nothing short of amazing. As well as the guitar riffs from guitarist, John Notto. Overall, this song has a neat hard rock vibe, with a mix of blues.

The third song they perform is Break You. At one point during the performance of this song, Marc shouts out, “Oh shit!” Which is possibly an accurate way to respond to this performance, as John does this pretty damn good guitar solo, using an IPA beer bottle. If that’s not a badass guitar solo, I don’t know what is. WHAT. A. SOLO. That won’t be the only time we see an incredible guitar solo from this incredible guitarist.

The next two songs we hear are Fire Away and The Wire. Both songs have such an incredible and enjoyable sound, of which they have performed at other shows, and both really stand out. 

Heartbreaker - That tune itself is always a catchy track to listen to, it’s especially enjoyable to hear when performed, as proven during this livestream. Marc’s vocals and John’s guitar riffs are nothing short of amazing, but during this performance, what really stood out was Corey’s five minute drum solo - Yes, five MINUTES of a truly fantastic drum solo. In which, John and bassist, Justin Smolian also join in towards the end of the solo, which also adds some flavor.

We then hear a performance of Down The Road. That song is an excellent example of a great blues rock song, and to hear this song being performed is surely pleasurable. Also very soothing to a rock music lover’s ears. 

This next song is an entirely new song, Rebel Son. When I said that John’s solo during Break You was not going to be the only time we see a fantastic guitar solo from him, I meant that. John just shredded on that guitar during this song and it was such a joy to see. Ladies and Gentlemen, John Notto just may be a future guitar legend.

The guys close out the show with two more songs, which are probably their biggest hits to date, When I’m Gone and Rolling 7’s. 

Overall, this livestream was amazing and what made it especially enjoyable to watch was the way they showed how grateful they were to be playing for their fans. This livestream would also make anyone look forward to going to watch them play live in person one day."