Rock Fist Reviews

Kris Melton- Editor in Chief

Here’s a list of some of my favorite locals that you should check out. They are all guaranteed good live shows and have albums you’ll love! (in no particular order)

The Bastard Suns (Atlanta, GA)

We Won’t Stop (Atlanta, GA)

Groove Stain (Atlanta, GA)

BPM (Montgomery, AL)

Bury Me Breathing (Atlanta, GA)

Six Pack Deep (New Orleans, LA)

Flatliners (Toronto, Canada)

Liquid Cheese (El Paso, TX)

Whole Wheat Bread (Jacksonville, FL)

Pour Habit (Long Beach, CA)

Eleven Standing Still (Atlanta, GA)

FERVoR (Atlanta, GA)

Dead Confederate (Atlanta, GA)

Twilight Gunfight (Atlanta, GA)

Dear Enemy (Atlanta, GA)

No Fuego (New Orleans, LA)

Chris Unck & The Black Roses (Atlanta, GA)

Martians See Red (Atlanta, GA)

Colossick (Atlanta, GA)

The Tips (Atlanta, GA)

Today The Moon, Tomorrow The Sun (Atlanta, GA)

For The Wait (New Orleans, LA)

Jungol (Atlanta, GA)

Attention System (Atlanta, GA)

Review of FERVoR 6.27.08

Location: Atlanta, GA

I recently attended FERVoR’s album release party for Life Verses on June 27^th at Vinyl. Atlanta’s Rock Scene promoted the event that night and invited me to come and interview the guys. After spending some time discussing the album and their music, I decided I had to stay and see them in action. Vinyl is an eclectic bar scene with dim lighting, wood floors, pool tables, and a stage the entire room can see, something any band can appreciate. By the time I arrived the place was crowded, the drinks were flowing, and energy was resounding from every corner. The opening bands TxRx, Lazyeye, and Eleven Standing Still were all excellent shows that only built up the crowd’s anticipation that much more. By the time FERVoR took the stage, their crowd had engulfed the floor, and I found myself grateful for taking a spot near the stage 10 minutes prior.

Low Kung, narrator and guitarist, is able to express emotion through the music in a very relatable and powerful way. Songs like “Receiver”, “Scorpio” and “Empty Me” reflect pain and desperation through his voice, paired with a heavy sound and a pulsating drum beat. His poetic lyrics attract the female audience, and the skillful structure of his guitar parts, draw the guys like moths to a flame. Whether he’s shredding on the electric or serenading on the acoustic, he creates a melodious tune that captivates the audience.

They performed a new song, “Breathing”, which opens with repetitive rifts on the guitar and intense drums. Justin Little (drums) helps fuel the rage behind the song with his energetic approach. The bridge is harmonic with a heavy rift, and finishes with a quick yet appropriate ending. I feel the vocals at the end of the chorus lacked consistency with the rest of the song, but this may have been their goal, as they take an artistic approach with each endeavor.

I was pleased to see that their bassist, Nate Sturge, was more than a reiterative back-up, but had vigorous solos and supported the music with a flare for detail. His skills were truly reflected in songs like “Your Words”, “Empty Me”, and “Born Dead” among others. Throughout the entire performance, Sturge and Kung worked the full stage with vigor, and despite the restrictions drummers are faced with, Little’s gusto was apparent as well.

The bass and drums leading into “Does The Sea” have a simple and natural flow to them, that truly compliment the eloquent acoustic guitar that follows. Kung’s vocals relay both passion and melancholy, all in all creating an ingenuous and sincere vibe.

My favorite song of the night was “Scorpio”. The repetitive scaling of the guitar is simple and beautiful during the verses, while the chorus is a collaboration of heavy guitar, bass, and drums. The song itself seems to work through the different emotions surrounding love, not just lyrically, but through the harmonization of their instruments. Expressing emotion with or without lyrics is an element this band has nailed.

Their last song of the night is also their single, “Wake”. The instrumentals remind me of two of my favorite bands, Tool and Nine Inch Nails, maintaining an ambient sound meshed with a heavy hit of rock. Kung’s vocals are powerful, and in a demanding way hold the listener’s attention. Sturge’s bass plays a major role in this song helping lead the surge of the song. Little reinforces the emotion of the lyrics with crashing drum sequences as the guitar squeals. This particular song is one of their best, and reflects each member’s dynamic talent and energy.

They received a great response from the crowd, and I noticed on most of their songs, fans were singing right along with Kung. Every face was focused on the stage, and cheers rippled through the crowd continuously. Towards the end of their performance, I even noticed a humorous and cliché scene side stage, as a young woman began to take off her dress while she danced. Obviously this band is already reaping the benefits of the rock star way of life.

This is truly one of the best local bands I’ve seen in the Atlanta area recently. Their album has been on heavy rotation in my CD player ever since they were so generous to give me a copy. Each member seems to carry his own weight, and they truly have a knack for relaying their inspiration behind each song melodically. Having interviewed the guys, I can also relay they are down to earth and sarcastically humorous, untainted at this point by any successes already achieved. Their next few shows are out of state, but they will be returning to the Atlanta area for a performance on August 23^rd at 3 Bears Café in Marietta, and again September 12^th at Jekyll and Hyde’s in Newnan. If you’re craving rock the soul can relate to and a performance where almost every song is masterful, you should attend the next FERVoR show.

~Kris Melton

FERVoR is:

Vocals/ Guitar- Low Kung

Bass/ Vocals- Nathan Sturge

Drums/ Vocals- Justin Little

Review of Martians See Red 7.26.08

Location: Atlanta, GA

The first time I heard Martians See Red was on St. Patty’s Day earlier this year. They opened for another local band, The Bastard Suns, and made a lasting impression. Their expressive and poetic lyrics, paired with simple and catchy melodies create a chill and fun vibe throughout their performance. The show I reviewed took place at Three Bears Café in Marietta, GA. With a center high-rise stage, balcony, and long horseshoe bar, this venue has a good set-up for the local scene, despite its suburban location. Brew in hand, I settled in near the bar right as the first chord resounded. Ambient undertones and drums mimicking a rattlesnake grabbed the crowd’s attention, and the set began to take off.

First off, this band has great energy. The bassist was all over the place, from the first song to the close of their set. They have both comfort and confidence on stage. Their overall sound reminded me of mid- 90’s bands like Weezer and Gin Blossoms intertwined with a rebellious guitar. They keep it simple, not overly technical, and the result is a very chill vibe. The vocalist, Kenny Brown, has a unique voice that mirrors the emotions behind the music. He is definitely a romantic, and it is reflected in the poetic lyrics and the band’s general style. It was no surprise he had a circle of ladies jamming out front row. The band’s songs can be playful, like Channeling Aero, melancholy, like Everything is Falling, or just plain pretty, like Open Words. But fear not guys, they’ve got guitar solos and songs like Maybe, Vilena, and The Drunk’s Awake that you can rock out to with one of those lovely ladies.

They performed two covers that night that were received with enthusiasm from everyone in the room. The first was NIB by Black Sabbath. I myself stood straight up as my ears recognized what song it was and began rock fisting with everyone. The second was For Whom the Bell Tolls by Metallica, which once again they nailed. They chose to close with that one, and definitely were given a proper farewell as the curtain closed.

Channeling Aero was a favorite of mine that night. I danced and enjoyed the heavy guitar chiming in, with an echo on Brown’s vocals during the chorus. I thought bassist, Gerr, and drummer, Troy Wolf, did a great job on this song as well. You could tell they branched out on this song from their usual sound. They had a guest appearance from some crazed fan, who probably had one to many drinks, but this provided extra flavor during the set. I also enjoyed their new songs, Vilena and Springtime. Vilena has a punk undertone to it, which yet again allows them to branch out from their norm. Springtime has a great chorus in which Brown and Justin Mewborn (guitarist) create one harmonious sound with both guitars.

If you are looking for screamo, fast-paced punk, or an industrial sound- this is not the show for you. But if you enjoy the relaxed pleasure of acoustic or reggae, the simplicity and depth of alternative, and lyrics that go beyond beers and chicks, you should definitely check out Martians See Red. Their next hometown show will be August 23rd at North River Tavern in Sandy Springs, and again on September 19th at Three Bears Café in Marietta. These guys put on a great show and you are sure to have a good time, so put those Rock Fists Up!

Kris Melton

Review of BPM 7.12.08

Location: Montgomery, AL

The great coincidence about writing the review for this show was it took place at the same venue where I heard BPM perform for the first time, North River Tavern. NRT is your usual round-the-corner watering hole, with lots of square footage and a stage set up in the back. Upon my arrival the bar was buzzing, the merch table was selling, and the guys were getting their set lists together. As the trio stepped up to sound check, a crowd began circling the stage seeking the best position. BPM is based out of Montgomery, AL, but frequents the Atlanta area, and has established a fan base here. Their psychobilly/ reggae/ ska sound has won over our locals, appealing to a wide range of demographics and age groups.

Adam Powell (vocals and guitar) has a very unique and powerful voice. He ranges from smooth and calming to a passionate deep cry, but always with a “bop” to it. Add to that the funky bass lines, psychedelic guitar parts, and drums that make your feet involuntarily tap, and you’ve got a recipe for one bad ass band.

Every instrument plays its own role in music, but for any band aiming for a reggae addition to their sound, drums and bass are imperative. Britt Powell (drums and vocals) and Drew Martin (bass) are the pulse behind BPM, and carry that weight with ease. I kept waiting for Martin to light up and interact with the crowd and band. Then all of a sudden after a few songs BOOM! he was all over the stage for the rest of the night. When they played “Cheese”, Martin had a high pitch solo that was just so damn cool! B. Powell can play both the reserved drummer who’s out of the spotlight, but then can transform into this confident ball of energy who lays down drum solos that really pump up the crowd.

For their song “Pon the Doorstep”, a guest guitarist, Wes Driscoll of The Bastard Suns, joined them onstage. I really enjoyed Martin’s bass in this song as well as how the two guitar parts were structured. There were moments that had a jam session feel, but mostly in part to the chemistry between all the players. This melancholy song was a treat, and can be found on their new album.

One of my favorite songs by BPM is “Marie”, a soulful song mixed with reggae and ska. The song’s intro is thoughtful and soft. Slowly the guitar joins in, and is followed by the drums. The drums are really the heartbeat of this song. There is a great transition in energy from the hyped ska verses to the bluesy reggae chorus. The crowd was skanking (a dance created for ska music) and belting out the words right along with A. Powell. The collaboration of funky bass, simple drums, and passionate vocals makes this a great crowd pleaser. Other songs from that night not previously mentioned that you should definitely check out are: “Murder in the Dancehall”, “Paid”, “Corruption”, and “Make Your Move”.

As their final song seemed to be wrapping up, B.Powell took over the stage with an amazing drum solo. The other guys walked off stage, and just let him do his thing. I was entranced! For a good ten minutes he was working every piece on that drum kit, even the cowbell and bongos! The crowd went crazy as he would slow it down, and then pick the pace back up. The other guys rejoined him on the stage, and A. Powell put the guitar behind his head for his final solo. Meanwhile Martin was going wild all over the stage, emphatically thumbing as he jumped. They gave every ounce of energy, talent, and enthusiasm they had for that final song.  I can’t think of a better way any band could close a set.

BPM will be returning to the Atlanta area on August 23^rd at Tony’s Sports Bar in Duluth to play with a local band, Groove Stain. Later this year they have plans to tour in Louisiana, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Whether you’re blazing in your living room, jamming in your car, or stretched out on a beach, BPM is a great addition to the soundtrack of your life. I highly recommend seeing them live, as well as purchasing an album.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:

Both Rock Fists Up

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BPM is:

Guitar/ Vocals: Adam Powell

Bass/ Vocals: Drew Martin

Drums/ Vocals: Britt Powell

Review of For The Wait’s “Separation” Album

Sample if you like: Crossfade, Taproot, Red, Trapt

Other featured Rock Fist artists you may like: FERVoR, Eleven Standing Still, Dear Enemy

Location: New Orleans, LA

For The Wait’s sophomore release “Separation” combines ambient rock infused with metal and progressive elements and relatable lyrics that induce deep thought or reflection; thus creating a perfect sound for the distressed soul. Richard White, (vocals) ranges from tormented serenades to the traditional gruff metal chant. Some songs are very straight forward in their meaning and delivery, like “Civilian”, while others leave room for interpretation and instrumental exploration, like “Red Horizon.” The combination creates a well rounded album featuring the band’s best attributes. A few songs really stand out off the album and deserve individual recognition. “Transition” shows their softer side with pained vocals, delicate instrumentals, a heartfelt guitar solo, and a beautiful melody. “Illuminate” opens with pulsating drums that lead into an ambient guitar followed by splashes of heavy instrumentals and vocals; a mix that works well for them. Their title track, “Separation,” fluctuates between hard hitting drums, and a heavy bass with squealing vocals to a high pitched, racing guitar and finish with soothing lyrics that seem to plead. Other mentionable songs include “The Division”, “Civilian”, and “Remove The Knife.” For The Wait is currently working on a 5-track EP that is anticipated to be released later this year. Their next scheduled show is March 31st at The Hanger in New Orleans, LA with Taproot and Atlanta locals Dear Enemy.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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For The Wait is:
Vocals/ Lyrics- Richard White
Guitar- Michael Fitzmorris
Guitar- Mike Simon
Bass- Kenny Focco
Drums- Justin Perez

December 9th Performance Review of We Won’t Stop

Location: Atlanta, GA

Photo by Andy Renner of RennerFoto

Three decades of music and an army of loyal fans drew an immense crowd to The Masquerade the night of the Misfits show in Atlanta. The notoriously recognized skull emblem was imprinted on patches, t-shirts, hats, and tattoos as far as the eye could see. For locals, opening for a band with such a renowned name, is the opportunity of a lifetime. Three local bands preceded the prestigious headliners, with the direct opener being the Atlanta-based punk group, We Won’t Stop. The guys have come a long way in the past year, losing a drummer, gaining another, and honing in on their weaknesses and strengths. They have also managed to be banned from some venues such as North River Tavern for being “too rowdy” in the name of punk rock. The result of a long year of hard work and changes is a much tighter, energetic sound than ever demonstrated at previous shows. Be it due to nerves, the large crowd, or just the rush of performing, the guys tore up the stage with a rush of energy that lasted through their entire set. Stage diving and crowd surfing were repeat fan offenses that ensued throughout the course of the night. Brandon Davis (vocals) was very interactive with the crowd, letting them sing into the mic during songs like I’m Drankin’ Tonight and Folsom Prison. The Johnny Cash cover was embraced by the entire crowd as the guitar solo was nailed. The guys added their own punk flare, giving it a new, distinct twist from the original. Ed Westbrook’s opening guitar in Anne Arbor was strong and sharp, showing improvement in that area as well. Anne Arbor and one of their new songs, Place I Used To Call Home were warmly received and celebrated. P.I.U.T.C.H. had a traditional punk sound with a surprising addition of reggae in the bridge. A personal favorite was the second song of the evening, Ride The Bullet, which received lots of support from the crowd and initiated a mosh pit. The chorus had an anthem-like chant matched with simple yet explosive punk instrumentals. New drummer, Pat Townsend, seems to be an excellent addition to this band of drinking brothers, as the guys are more on top of their game than ever. Their next local performance is January 8th at Smith’s Olde Bar in Atlanta for a Comcast OnDemand performance with The Lugachors, The Loose Skrews, and Bigfoot. If debauchery, drinking, and punk rock sound like a good night to you, definitely check out We Won’t Stop at their next show.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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We Won’t Stop is:
Lead Vocals- Brandon Davis
Lead Guitar/ Vocals- Ed Westbrook
Rythym Guitar/ Vocals- Zach Stanley
Bass- Randall Wayne
Drums- Pat Townsend

Artist Name: Jessica Laine Lewis
Profession: Photographer (specifically event & music)
Location: Atlanta, GA

Contact Info: www.POParazziPhotography.com and www.myspace.com/POParazziPhotography
Why she rocks: “I specialize in Event/Music Photography, but I do a little bit of everything! My work has been published on Metromix (shot the Hottest Rockers Contests for Metromix), Atlanta Music Guide, front page of the AJC, the Sunday Paper”.

Monica Stricker

Artist Name: Monica Stricker
Profession: Photographer (specifically band & concert)
Location: Atlanta, GA

Contact Info: ManiacalDenizen@gmail.com or www.myspace.com/maniacaldenizen
Why she rocks: “Exceptional photographer that has a gift for capturing the ambience of the performance at a concert”.

See examples of Monica’s work below:

Review of Uncrowned’s Devils and Angels EP

Sample if you like: Three Days Grace, Slipknot, Breaking Benjamin, 30 Seconds To Mars
Location: Atlanta, GA

This Atlanta quartet was formed in 2002, and has been a familiar name on the local scene for the past several years. They have established a fan base both in Atlanta and abroad thanks to outlets such as Sirius radio and an article in Spin magazine. Their collective influences give them both a familiarly popular sound and their atypical vocals for their genre makes them recognizable. They share similarities to Breaking Benjamin, Avenged Sevenfold, Three Days Grace, and Linkin Park vocalist Chester Bennington. They pair heavy instrumentals with high pitched vocals that range from singing to screaming, which may help them branch out to audiences normally not in tune with what they call “modern edge metal”. Unlike their previous release of “Simple Sick Device” which had a whopping total of 22 songs (eight of which were about 30 seconds in length) “Devils and Angels” holds five songs and an additional three unlisted mixes that follow. While songs seem more developed when compared to the past, their initial sound remains the same. Three songs are worthy of mentioning. The EP opens with “Devil in My Hand” which is heavy, repetitive, and full of squealing vocals. This is followed by their best off the EP, “Remember Your Ghost”, in which the heavy instruments are complimented by softer vocals. Stephen Bazzell’s voice is comparable to Mindless Self Indulgence’s singer Jimmy Urine in these verses. “Waking in White Lights” has emotionally charged vocals in the chorus “Waking in white lights and running away from the shadows”. This song somewhat bridges the heavy to pop gap, introducing new fans to an otherwise unlikely genre. While there is nothing necessarily new or riveting about their overall presentation, many will enjoy the southern rock familiarities, the heavy delivery, and the variations between verses and choruses. They are currently touring up and down the east coast. Their next local show is at Soho in Columbus, GA with Almost Kings and Afreudianslip on February 12th.

~Kris Melton

Uncrowned is:
Lead Vocals: Stephen Bazzell
Guitars/ Vocals: Jack Andrad
Bass/ Vocals: Stuart Clark
Drums: Scott Sellers

Review of The Bastard Suns Album “Here Come The Suns”

Sample if you like: Sublime, Dropkick Murphy’s, Rancid, Pennywise, Authority Zero
Location: Atlanta, GA

In a time where Atlanta’s rock scene is dominated by alternative southern rock, The Bastard Suns’ reggae/ punk/ Irish folk combination sets them a part from the crowd. While their sound may be more common in other areas, they stand out in the southeast, and this has drawn in a large audience who welcome their diversity. Add Dropkick Murphies, Sublime, and Flogging Molly together and the sum is The Bastard Suns. Most songs intertwine more than one influence, creating abrupt changes in melody, which adds a little something for every listener. “We’d Go For Broke” reflects the true colors of this band in every way; strong vocals, playful bass, punk to reggae change-ups, drums that deliver, creative and technical guitar, and of course lyrics professing their undying love for music. Lead singer, Clayton Hiers, has a phenomenal voice that ranges from strong serenades mixed with an Irish folk flare, like “Oh, Celina” and “Irish Drinking Song,” to belting fast lyrics served with reggae or punk, like “Hold Fast” and “Pirates of the Whiskey Sea”. The album opens strong with “Never Say Die”, a punk anthem declaring to “never give in and don’t take no shit”. It also gives you a taste of lead guitarist’s, Wes Driscoll, ability to whip out creative, strong solos. “Away, Away, Away” is a break-up song with distinctive drum segments by Jay Tea, and an emotional yet humorous cry from bassist and back-up vocalist, Levon White. “Hold Fast” has a strong reggae vibe and a fun bass line. Kevin Howell is the unsung hero, whose strong support demands little attention, but helps seal the songs. These guys express positivity and humor, but can also touch on a deeper note. “R.I.P.” is a somber, yet beautiful tribute to lost friends. “Oh, Celina” has an Irish folk feel and lyrics that surrender pride and declare true love. “What Have We Won” gets political (they are a punk band after all) regarding the current war and opens with a fun, almost classical guitar that speeds up with the urgency of the lyrics, and then drops back down to reggae. This album gives each member at least one song where their genuine talent is given a spot light. A personal favorite off the new album is “S.B.M.T.” which opens with a sound clip from the movie “Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story”. Levon and Jay Tea are the pulse of the song, while Clay’s voice captivates the listener and Wes rips into a classic guitar solo with a twang. It’s definitely a type of love song, and could be for these Bastards, what “Smoke Two Joints” was for Sublime. The album was released January 9th and is available for purchase now.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up!
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The Bastard Suns is:
Lead Vocals: Clayton Hiers
Lead Guitar: Wes Driscoll
Rythym Guitar: Kevin Howell
Bass: Levon White
Drums: Jay Tea