Rock Fist Reviews

Sample if you like: Mastodon, Chevelle, Three Days Grace, Slipknot, Taproot

Sound: Metal / Rock / Alternative
Location: Atlanta, GA

No strangers to the Atlanta music scene, Dear Enemy blends their metal core with heartfelt vocals and alternative instrumentals for a sound with vast appeal. Their 2006 EP “Walking Past Yesterday” was produced by Corey Lowery and earned the respect and admiration of a slew of fans and over 3500 copies sold. “Believe The Rumors”, the 2008 full-length album, scored the band tours and opening slots for acts such as Sevendust, Chevelle, Alterbridge, Red, Hoobastank, Three Days Grace, and Taproot. Their new EP “Words of the Wicked” was also produced by Corey Lowery, and reiterates each band member’s contributions as well as their trademark powerful delivery. Dear Enemy’s sound is maturing as a group and solidifying their notch on the industry’s belt. The album explodes into “Erase” a commandingly demented delivery of remorseless drums, infectious energy, and twisted guitar. The bipolar addition of “Playing the Victim” is a dramatically defensive song with dynamic changes in melodies and demanding guitar that create an extremely marketable sound with mass appeal. The gripping turmoil of “Nothing In Return” proves the band’s diversity and lyrical delivery, featuring a killer guitar and a balance of radiance and gloom. Tribal drums lead the listener into the animalistic “Voices Carry” with a fuse of carnivorous growls and melodic cries. The title track “Words of the Wicked” includes more alternative influences, pummeling drums, and unapologetic vocals. The guitar solos that pop up on this EP are a welcome addition and the percussion strengthens songs. With its contagious energy and skillful dispatch, “Words of the Wicked” is sure to seize the attention of its listeners.

Dear Enemy is:
Vocals: Bryan Kraatz
Guitars/ Vocals: Gogi Randhawa
Guitars/ Vocals: Ryan Bennett
Bass: Ben Workman
Drums: Alex Dorminy

www.myspace.com/dearenemy
www.dearenemy.com

You can purchase Dear Enemy’s music from Amazon, iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody, and Zune. Albums/ EPs include: Words Of The Wicked, Believe The Rumors, Walking Past Yesterday, The Devined Sessions

Popularity: 3%

By Val King

R to L: Erin Watson, Davina Masicyzk, Katy Keene, Emily Boyd, Brittany Huntman, Shawn Williams, Elizabeth Hiott & Julie Arko

It’s official…Elvis is alive and well and living in Atlanta. At least in the hearts and minds of the seven girls in the all-female Elvis tribute band, the Pelvis Breastlies, that is. Formed just a little over a month ago, the group has already had a successful debut gig at The Inman Park Festival and The 5 Spot, the city has been plastered by the bands highly recognizable logo stickers, and their Facebook fan page gains more loyal followers by the minute. With their first full-length show all set for July 1st at The Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge, it appears that the Pelvis Breastlies have Atlanta “All Shook Up!”

Rumors have already been swirling around as to the how the band actually came to fruition. I had heard everything from a joke, to a dare, to a drunken idea at a bar in Little 5 Points. Shawn Williams (99X) , the masterminding engineer of the PB’s , laughingly set the record straight. “Ha! The rumors are already beginning? The concept actually began with my obsession with Elvis. Katy Keene (keys) and I had been talking about starting a band. One night, I was sitting at home listening to some Elvis, and it hit me! I was like “Hey Shawn, let’s start an all female Elvis Tribute Band!” I thought of a play on the words Elvis Presley…and came up with Pelvis Breastlies. I’m always coming up with crazy ideas, new hobbies, projects, but this one is, by far, my absolute favorite! I made a Facebook page, and asked if any females, who love Elvis, wanted to be in an all female Elvis tribute band. The seven of us barely knew one another, but after our first practice, we all realized that we ladies had an awesome connection…and natural talent (some of them had never played an instrument before).” And so it came to be that Shawn Williams (guitar), Katy Keene (keys), Elizabeth Hiott (drums), Emily Boyd (ukelele), Davina Masicyzk (percussion), Brittany Huntman (bass) and Erin Watson (lead vocals) were cosmically brought together by fate.

Front and center of the band is Erin Watson (100.5), who has an amazing stage presence to go along with her sultry vocals. I asked Watson about her vocal/stage background and how it feels to be representing “The King”. “I’ve always known I wanted to sing and perform. My family used to say I had too much personality for such a young girl. I think that was just a nice way of saying, “This girl’s too much to handle!” I come from a musical family. Both of my parents sang all the time. My mom played piano, while my aunts and uncles would pick and sing Gospel songs. Since I was about two years old, I used to dress up like Jem (the cartoon rockstar from the 80′s) and would sing and dance around the house. I’ve always loved being on stage, whether in plays or in the choir. I’ve never had any formal training, just a genuine love for music and using my voice. All I’ve wanted to do since I was too young to know any different was sing, play music, and travel while doing it. I’ve been in three other bands, and still have my original band, Altovox, but, I feel like this band is so special. All the girls are on the same page about what we want out of this…to pay the best tribute to the “King” as possible and look good while doing it! I love Shawn Williams, for being the quirky girl that she is and making this dream become a reality.”

Manager, Julie Arko, commented on the unprecedented positive support of the group. “Considering the band has only been together for a little over a month, the response has been overwhelmingly amazing! We started getting contacted almost immediately by venue owners, photographers, etc, wanting to be a part of this idea, and to offer their help. It’s been fantastic! Right now, the girls are just working really hard to bring more great music to the local venues as quickly as possible.“

At this juncture, the future of the Pelvis Breastlies looks infinitely promising. With the musical and marketing talents of each member, this band appears to be on the fast track to destinations unknown. I asked Shawn about her plan and vision for the group and where she sees the Pelvis Breastlies ultimately ending up. “Well, I never really had a “plan” of how this whole amazing adventure would go. The energy in these ladies, the love for Elvis, and the love from our friends and their friends, has kinda blown me away. It’s beyond exciting!! We are just taking things as they come at us. We would love to play venues outside of Georgia, Elvis festivals, train stations, etc.. The main point of this whole idea was to have fun and to help in any way that I can, to keep Elvis’ music around for generations to come.”

Your next chance to catch the brilliantly bedazzled Pelvis Breastlies live is July 1, 2010 at The Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge. Tickets are not available yet, but I am predicting a line around the block. Until then, here is a link to some amateur video that captured a very impromptu performance at The Five Spot last weekend.

Popularity: 17%

Sample if you like: Radiohead, Muse, Pink Floyd, Primus, Mars Volta, Bjork, Led Zeppelin, Animal Collective
Sound: Rock / Electronic/ Experimental
Location: Atlanta, GA

No strangers to the Atlanta music scene Jungol is an undeniably creative and talented trio with a fan base as eclectic as their music. Their take on electronic rock is not only unique, but appealing to a new untapped audience. By combining alternative rock, ambient additions, and a creative layering of melodies, they have created a sound all their own. Pulling influences from the classics to today Over The Sun And Under The Radar fully embraces the band’s new approach to writing. The guys put more focus on vocals, which are strong, hypnotic, and enthrallingly harmonic. Songs are also shorter and highlight the guitar in key places as opposed to drawn out solos. L.A. Possum and Before The Night both feature more of an alternative sound with a darker edge wrapped around their calm delivery. The spacey intro of Empty Tank leads straight into an otherworldly melody with repetitive drums focusing on the storyteller vocals. Other standouts include the wistfully mellow Moving Song and Sit Still which features a strong opening and Pink Floyd-like, melancholy instruments. The stand out song and also the album’s opener, Another Life, is powerful without being aggressive. The captivating vocals paired with quick drums and psychedelic synths create a natural flow that’s smooth, bold, and harmonic. The climatic bridge is laced with emotion and is a grandiose closer to the song. The disc is nothing short of beautiful and showcases Jungol’s knack for composing and their lyrical abilities. With a charismatic new album and a southeast tour, they may not be under the radar for long.

Jungol is:
Graham Yoder (guitar, vocals, sampler, glockenspiel, percussion)
Jason Monseur (drums, percussion)
Josh Yoder (vocals, bass, synths, keys, guitar)

www.myspace.com/jungolband
www.jungol.net

You can purchase Jungol’s albums from Amazon, iTunes or cdbaby.
Albums include: Places EP, Tiny Heaven, & Trapdoors Corridoors and Chasms

Below our pictures of Jungol’s performance the night of their CD Release Party at The Earl for Over The Sun And Under The Radar. All pictures taken by Susie Ceruto of Sassy Photography and Shock & Awe. Click on the picture to view it larger. Please do not use without permission.

Upcoming Shows ( view all )

May 6 2010 7:00P
500 Songs For Kids @ Smith’s Olde Bar – Performing Sledgehammer
Atlanta, Georgia, US
May 12 2010 9:00P
The End w/Odist and Gunslinger
Nashville, Tennessee, US
May 12 2010 9:00P
The End w/ Odist and Gunslinger
Nashville, Tennessee, US
May 14 2010 8:00P
Ziggy’s w/Odist
Chattanooga, Tennessee , US
May 20 2010 8:00P
Lemon Grove w/The Zou
Youngstown, Ohio, US
May 21 2010 8:00P
TBA
pittsburgh, Pennsylvan, US
May 22 2010 8:00P
Arlene’s Grocery
New York, New York, US
May 23 2010 8:00P
The Cave w/ Nerd Parade
Chapel Hill, North Caro, US
May 24 2010 9:00P
TBA
TBA, North Caro, US

May 25 2010 8:00P
Broadways w/Nerd Parade
Asheville, North Caro, US
May 27 2010 8:00P
Clermont Lounge
Atlanta, Georgia, US
May 28 2010 8:00P
Amici
Milledgeville, Georgia, US

May 29 2010 8:00P
Little Kings w/ Daffodil and Manray
Athens, Georgia, US
Jun 25 2010 9:00P
North River Tavern
Sandy Springs, Georgia, US
Jul 23 2010 6:00P
Slopfest @ Little Kings
Athens, Georgia, US
Jul 24 2010 8:00P
Nophest @ Eyedrum
Atlanta, Georgia, US
Aug 15 2010 8:00P
The Strange Daze Music and Arts Festival @The Masquerade
Atlanta, Georgia

GENERAL CONTACT:
jungolband@gmail.com

BOOKING:
jungolbooking@gmail.com

MANAGEMENT:
Lauren E. Wilson
Local Evolution of the World Ent.
Lauren@localevolutionoftheworld.com
404.593.1212

PUBLICITY:
Liz Lawon
Liz Lawson @ Deus Ex Machina
www.deusexmachinapr.com
liz@deusexmachinapr.com

Popularity: 18%

Sample if you like: Pepper, Seeed, 311, The Expendables, Slightly Stoopid, Wilco, Band Of Horses, Mgmt, Ballyhoo

Sound: Reggae-Rock

Location: Savannah, GA

Label: LAW Records

These Savannah locals have been performing their roots-reggae meets contemporary rock tunes to an ever growing fan base since 2003. Although the majority of their fans are located in the Southeast, their tour to the west coast this summer is sure to introduce them to a whole new audience. With music that reads into the soul, and calms the spirit, the entrancing musical collection of “Everyone On Everynight” appeals to the Rasta in us all. Their third album reflects mellow melodies combined with an array of influences creating their own spin on reggae. The album opens with “Casting Of The Cares” a catchy song that highlights keys that pop along with the bass during the verse and a heavier chorus with a deep guitar and catchy lyrics. Paired with the smooth vocals and a crying guitar solo, this song is a great introduction to the rest of the album. “Keeping In Touch” is a chill, solemn track with a psychedelic ambience. Vocals remain strong, but are softened for a more relaxed feel as they sing poetic lyrics that seem to hypnotize the listener. The simple delivery makes a big impact. “Illuminate” opens with a heavier sound that leads into an electronica vibe where the bass and drums are distinctive. This song proves they can think outside the box and branch off while staying true to the core of their music. “Here In Front Of Me” has more of a pop influence that could introduce them to more of a mainstream audience, and although born in a somber setting, lyrics are sweet, poetic, and hopeful. “Carouser” features loads of bass and a squealing guitar leading into a jam session with spacey rifts, relaxed vocals, and a finale of drum rolls paired with a surge of guitar. The album is now available from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. Passafire’s talent is demonstrated on “Everyone On Everynight” and is also guaranteed to be found at one of their live performances.

Passafire is:
Ted Bowne – Guitar/Lead Vox
Will Kubley – Bass/Vox
Adam Willis – Keys
Nick Kubley – Drums

www.myspace.com/passafire
www.passafiretheband.com
www.rockthethreads.com/passafire (purchase t-shirts and CDs)

You can purchase Passafire’s albums from Amazon, iTunes or cdbaby.
Albums include: Everyone On Everynight, Submersible, and Passafire (self titled)

Popularity: 29%

by Austin King

Location of Show: The Masquerade, Atlanta, GA

Sample if you like: Devil Wears Prada, Jamie’s Elsewhere, Dance Gavin Dance

A Day to Remember, hailing from Ocala, Florida, are known as much for their powerpunk choruses as they are their earth-shattering breakdowns. As always, these boys never fail to live up to the hype. They even managed to sell out tickets for a two night experience at the Masquerade in Atlanta. ADTR brought with them equally brutal supporting acts Enter Shikari, Silverstein, and August Burns Red. As a regular concert goer and reporter, I can easily say that this line up shook the house down, as well as the surrounding five blocks of the city.

The first act to hit the stage was The UK’s own Enter Shikari. This band threw out all the misconceptions that the opening act is just for warm ups. The second their signature bumping synthesizer started up, no one in the sold-out crowd was standing still. The electronics coupled with heavy screams created a rave just short of ecstasy rolling and glow sticks flying. I was impressed with the stage presence that Enter Shikari put on with some of their hits “No Sssweat” and “Juggernauts”. After this showing at their first concert in Atlanta, I will put money that this will certainly not be their last at the Masquerade.

The next group to come out was Silverstein coming from our neighbors to the North. Because of the fact that this band has been around the block and released four studio albums and two EP’s, many in the crowd did not think that these guys could play all of the fan favorites. Again, the fans were proved wrong when Silverstein opened up with their latest single “Vices” from their album A Shipwreck in the Sand. Of course Silverstein had to play a few oldies for the fans that have stuck around since this bands inception in 2000, and songs like “Bleeds No More” and “Hear Me Out” not only quenched the fans’ thirsts, but these tunes also got the people who weren’t familiar to tear up the mosh pit. After seeing this band countless times, it is a given that Silverstein will always be welcome in Atlanta.

Here at the halfway point of the night is when things got fun. The crowd was loosened up and ready to throw down, and what better band for this than metalcore legends August Burns Red? ABR, who was here recently at the 7Venue in Douglasville, bring such amazing riffs, bass drops, and screams that it is almost expected. Jake Luhrs’ has such a dynamic range of growls and yells that would put any two-bit screamers in their place. In the same way, songs like “Marianas Trench” and “Composure” put any two-bit mosh warriors in their place. This all culminated in their final song of the set, “American Dream”. The frenzy in the crowd not only included the moshpit, but also crowdsurfers galore. If you were standing still before this band, your legs and arms got a hefty work out moving to the music.

By the time the intricate LED light show was set up, the entire venue was in a fever pitch chanting “ADTR ADTR!” relentlessly. This was what everyone was waiting for. The headliners A Day To Remember rolled out on stage to open with the crowd pleaser “Downfall of Us All”. Because of this band’s genre-transcending fanbase, they made sure to not only play their two hardest hits – “Mr. Highway is Thinking About the End” and “A Shot in the Dark”- but also more poppy tunes like “Have Faith in Me”. A Day to Remember even played songs off of their first record, aptly named Old Record, such as “Casablanca Sucked Anyways” and “You Should’ve Killed Me When You Had the Chance”. As far as the encore goes, many fans were shocked when vocalist Jeremy pulled out an acoustic guitar to sing the acoustic ballad “If It Means A Lot To You”, but then stepped it up to play their most well known song, “Plot to Bomb the Panhandle”. As a long time friend and fan of A Day To Remember, I have certainly never seen these guys at the top their game like this, and they are only getting started. No glass ceilings for this hardcore group.

With the start of the “Toursick 2010″ tour kicking off here in Atlanta, Georgia, it was no surprise that a cross section of every hardcore fan would come out of the woodworks to support these bands. I have seen many quality shows at The Masquerade, but this show definitely tops my list of best concerts at any venue.

Special Thanks to Silverstein, A Day To Remember and everyone at Victory Records

Myspace:  ADTR – http://www.myspace.com/adaytoremember

Popularity: 41%

Location of Show: Smith’s Olde Bar, Atlanta, GA
Band’s Location: Atlanta, GA
Sound: Americana / Southern Rock / Country
Sample if you like: Fleetwood Mac, Counting Crows, G Love & Special Sauce

Long before Rock Fist discovered Connor Christian and Southern Gothic, the band was already making moves in both the local and national music scene. With their music video for “Sunday Suit” ranking in the top ten on CMT’s Pure Country 12-Pack Countdown and their latest album “90 Proof Lullabies” produced by Jeff Tomei (Matchbox 20, Jerry Cantrell) and mixed by Shawn Grove (Collective Soul, Sevendust), success seems only eminent for this talented group of musicians. Their sound is soulful and rustic, pulling from influences in both the rock and country genres for an Americana sound that’s catchy and spirited. It’s apparent that each member takes their position seriously, and the tight sound they create is one only achieved by hours of practicing and natural born ability. This night was a special show for the group, as they were also filming footage to be used in their next music video for “3 Times”. Rhett Thompson headed up the film crew, and with cameras scattered throughout the venue, which was brimming with fans from wall to wall, an evening of unforgettable artists began.

Back Row Baptists warmed up the crowd with a vigorous performance. Their new album “Broken Hearts and Bad Decisions” comes out next month on Vintage Earth and was co-produced by Connor Christian and James Barber (Ryan Adams, Hole). Connor Christian and Southern Gothic went back and forth sharing the stage with Sundown for several songs. With both bands on stage they opened the sets with “Road Goes on Forever”, in the process inducing foot tapping and a full body sound. “When My Lover Comes” had a southern gospel sound, and despite it’s 8 band members filling the stage, no weak link could be found.

Connor Christian and Southern Gothic opened their own set with “Midnight Moon”, which was embraced by the crowd. This song of southern soul had a twang of heartache and really flaunted Connor’s vocals. “South Texas Sun” is a slow, solemn song showing off the skilled violin and the invitingly deep bass. ”16 Bars” is a catchy song with more of a generic feel and a slight reggae style bridge mixed with their own country/ southern rock flare. “My Salvation” is another new song that was both smooth and rustic. “Waiting for Princess” featured an amazing violin solo by Elena Martin. The crowd couldn’t help but dance and sing along to “Sunday Suit”, their song which has been featured on CMT. This was followed by a cover of Guns N Roses’ “November Rain”. It is no simple feat to take on an Axl Rose song, but Connor truly delivered and wowed his crowd. With cameras rolling they went into “Three Times” with a fierce violin, pounding drums, and intense energy. Their performance was beyond a local level, and paired with the crowd’s involvement should make for excellent footage for the song’s future music video.

The band closed with two covers that inspired dancing, squealing, and resounding appreciation. “Devil Went Down To Georgia” was performed with fervor and an attention grabbing force. Elena’s incredible talent is undeniable throughout their entire set, but this song truly shows off her skills giving her a taste of the spotlight. “Folsom Prison” brought the evening to an end with the crowd chanting along lyrics and smiling ear to ear. This may have been a big night for Connor Christian and Southern Gothic, but rest assured this talented group can deliver every time. An added bonus to going to a Connor Christian & Southern Gothic show: free drink coozies.

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Connor Christian & Southern Gothic is:
Vocals/ Piano/ Guitar- Connor Christian
Bass/ Vocals- Joe Abramson
Fiddle/ Mandolin/ Piano/ Vocals- Elena Martin
Drums- Shawn Thacker

Below are pictures from the show taken by Ange Alex. Click on the picture to view it larger:

Connor Christian & Southern Gothic’s video “Sunday Suit” was in the top ten videos for CMT’s Pure Country 12-pack Countdown. View the video here:

http://www.cmt.com/videos/connor-christian/470119/sunday-suit.jhtml

See Connor Christian & Southern Gothic at their next show! Check below for a show near you:

Mar 19 2010 10:00P
Chills
Thomaston, Georgia
Mar 20 2010 10:00P
Dixie Tavern
Marietta, Georgia
Mar 26 2010 9:00P
Montreux
Summerville
Mar 27 2010 9:30P
Wet Willie’s
Charleston, South Carolina
Mar 31 2010 8:00P
Rusty Buzzard
Thomaston, Georgia
Apr 2 2010 10:00P
SoHo
Columbus, Georgia
Apr 3 2010 10:00P
Hummingbird
Macon, Georgia
Apr 10 2010 7:00P
Living Room Show!!
Ft Myers, Florida
Apr 11 2010 3:00P
Living Room Show!!
Punta Gorda, Florida
May 14 2010 8:00P
Summit City Lounge
Whitesburg, Kentucky
Jun 12 2010 9:30P
The Loft
Columbus, Georgia

Website: www.ConnorChristian.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/waitingforprincess
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Connor-Christian/22792502258?ref=sgm
Twitter: www.twitter.com/connorchristian

Popularity: 44%

Review of FERVoR’s NEW Single “Habitual”
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: Breaking Benjamin, Red, Trapt, Crossfade
Sound: Alternative / Pop / Rock
Location: Atlanta, GA

Atlanta power trio, FERVoR, recently released their new single, “Habitual”. The band had a release party in the song’s honor on January 29th at The Hard Rock in Atlanta, just before the band left for a three month tour across the country. A new EP will be released later this year, and fans can enjoy “Habitual” to hold them over in the meantime. The song has been embraced by their fans and circulating in conversations across the local music scene. Existing fans can expect FERVoR to stay true to the sound they’ve always loved, with the music not sounding like something they’ve already heard. Those new to FERVoR will get a taste of the band at its best, as it has already proven to win over fresh followers. The song opens with a taunting, yet inviting sound foreshadowing the theme to come. The song’s lyrics are sexual, with a steamy chorus of foreplay and teasing from his unrequited love. The smooth, hypnotic vocals are paired with a deep bass and hard hitting drums, making the song sound intense and far from crybaby pop. The bridge features drums that build with anticipation and a provoking guitar, sealing the song as explosive and impressive. Similar to the theme of Offspring’s “Self Esteem” this song could be a radio hit, as well as the new anthem for girls working the poles. As always, FERVoR delivers a song that’s easy to connect with on many levels. Everyone can relate to the tormented lyrics and the music appeals to a wide fan base. The single is available for purchase now both on iTunes and CDBaby.

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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FERVoR is:
Vocals/ Guitar- Low Kung
Bass- Nathan Sturge
Drums- Justin Little

www.myspace.com/fervor  

You can purchase FERVoR’s single “Habitual” from iTunes or cdbaby.
iTunes click on this link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/habitual/id351967966
cdbaby click on this link: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/fervorrock4

Upcoming Shows:

Feb 12 2010 8:00P
Mike’s Corner Pocket
Jefferson City, Missouri

Feb 13 2010 8:00P
Andrews
Denver, Colorado

Feb 15 2010 9:00P
The Bouquet
Boise, Idaho

Feb 16 2010 6:00P
The Blvd
Spokane, Washington

Feb 17 2010 8:00P
Cedarwood Dome
Milton, Washington

Feb 18 2010 9:00P
Fuel
Seattle, Washington

Feb 19 2010 9:00P
Tiger Bar
Portland, Oregon

Feb 21 2010 9:00P
Fantasy Hall
Lancaster, California

Feb 22 2010 8:30P
TRiP
Santa Monica, California

Feb 23 2010 8:00P
diPiazza’s
Long Beach, California

Feb 24 2010 9:00P
Copper State Tavern
Phoenix, Arizona

Feb 26 2010 10:00P
Sundance’s Place
Prescott, Arizona

Feb 28 2010 7:00P
The Orchid Chamber
Albuquerque, New Mexico

Mar 3 2010 10:00P
Headhunters
Austin, Texas

Mar 5 2010 9:30P
The Forum
New Orleans, Louisiana

Mar 6 2010 9:00P
The Nick
Birmingham, Alabama

Mar 7 2010 8:00P
Liquid Scrips
Orlando, Florida

Mar 10 2010 9:00P
The Village Tavern
Charleston, South Carolina

Mar 11 2010 9:00P
House of Tunes Music Hall
Beaufort, South Carolina

Mar 12 2010 8:00P
The Rock-It Club
Bluefield, West Virginia

Mar 13 2010 9:00P
Zakk’s Coffeehouse
Murfreesboro, North Carolina

Mar 17 2010 2:00P
SXSW (3/17-3/21)
Austin, Texas

Mar 20 2010 7:00P
The Chuggin Monkey (Red Gorilla Music Fest @ SXSW)
Austin, Texas

Apr 16 2010 9:00P
Vinyl
Atlanta, Georgia

Popularity: 48%

Review of Before The Solstice’s 1.09.10 Performance
~Kris Melton

Location of Show: Eyedrum, Atlanta, GA
Band’s Location: Atlanta, GA
Sample if you like: A Perfect Circle, Radiohead, Dispatch

Photo by Morgan Ivie

This progressive meets alternative band is sure to “wow” you with their creative approach to songwriting. Amidst a world of music that relies on what sells, these guys stick with what they love and the result is something raw and poetic. While as performers Before The Solstice is not balls to the wall, explosive entertainment, their performance is captivating and raw. As lyrics unfold the best way to summarize their delivery is that of storytellers. The band opened up their set with “A New World”, an alternative song with ambient melodies and climatic heavy bridge. After just one song it is undeniable that Clint Bussey is a truly talented vocalist. The strong yet soothing vocals seize attention with “Judas Christ”, a push-the-envelope kind of song with quick and clever drums. “Let It Die” induced the crowd to dance and form a small pit in front of the stage; those who weren’t dancing involuntarily began nodding their heads. This technical and detailed song really allowed the drums to shine through the other instruments. The band invited a guest on stage for both “Viewpoint of The Ghost” and “The Golden Age”. In both situations members switched up instruments and keys were added in. “The Golden Age” delivered a mystifying, melancholy addition to the set with a bridge that grabs you by the shoulders and shakes you. “Clouds” is an artistic song with repetitive lyrics and an entrancing guitar. “The Gift” was well received by the ladies and seems to tell a story with the changes in its melodies. “Roly Troly” closed the evening on a pained yet melodic note. Before The Solstice is a band that embodies passion and poetry. They have an art for delivering their memoir and a knack for capturing the hearts of their listeners. Their next show is February 13th at Eddie’s Attic in Atlanta, GA.

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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Before The Solstice is:
Lead Vocals/ Guitar- Clint Bussey
Bass/ Keyboard- JW Popavits
Drums- Tony Runco

www.myspace.com/beforethesolstice
beforethesolstice@gmail.com

Popularity: 44%

Review of Legend Has It’s “Driven” Album
~ Kris Melton

Sample if you like: Jimmy Eats World, Blink 182,
Sound: Rock / Pop Punk / Powerpop
Location: Atlanta, GA

Driven is an album with rock at its core, but embraced with catchy pop hooks and traces of punk influence, creating a popular sound of today’s music. The high-pitched melodic vocals harmonize with the more intense instrumentals, creating a balance for songs that get stuck on repeat in your head. The album starts off strong with “Anything You Want To Sing”, one of the band’s best songs and also the most marketable. The distorted guitar rips the song open and while all instruments exhibit raw dexterity, the strong vocals keep the sound full and contemporary. “Simple Change” has a happy-go-lucky pop-punk melody. “After The Fall” has a soft bridge that really highlights the vocals, and is another song with a contagious hook. “Live For The Now” uses a transition from slow instrumentals and somber vocals to a zealous change in tempo paired with positive lyrics. “Into Reality” and “Run Away” utilize more alternative influences in comparison to other tracks. “Work In Progress” closes the album with a slow melodious song born from personal reflection. A personal favorite off the album is “Given The Chance”, which has a fun and easy to sing along to chorus inspired by lady love. Driven is available for purchase now, and you can find information on the album and upcoming show dates on the Legend Has It’s website.

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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Legend Has It is:
Vocals- Derek Walton
Bass- Richard Allen
Lead Guitar- Brandon Pool
Guitar- Andy Kemmerer
Drums- Jon Bottoms

www.legendhasit.net
www.myspace.com/legendhasitrocks

Popularity: 51%

Review of Teabaggin’s 12.19.09 Performance: The Boston Teabaggin’ Party
~Kris Melton

Location of Show: Vinyl, Atlanta, GA
Band’s Location: New Smyrna Beach, FL (Daytona)
Sample if you like: NOFX, Five Finger Death Punch, System of a Down, Bouncing Souls

Florida locals, Teabaggin’, are a raunchy, high-energy punk band that graced Vinyl’s stage for an event called The Boston Teabaggin’ Party. The event was put on by One City Productions, an organization that utilizes local bands to gain community awareness and involvement in issues that affect us all locally. While they are not necessarily politically driven, they encourage and challenge everyone to get educated on current issues, with the driving force of the evening focused on Fair Tax. The event occurred exactly 236 weeks after the real Boston Tea Party and included a guest speaker, Jim Duffie, in between bands to inform show-goers about Fair Tax, the current problems with our income tax code, and what people can do about it.

One City Productions went all out on the event hanging fishing net and tea bags above the stage and a projection screen with cartoons and visuals of The Boston Tea Party. Teabaggin’s front man, Chris Scott, participated enthusiastically by wearing a wig and costume reminiscent of what was worn in the late 1800’s. This amusing scene created an unusual and entertaining atmosphere to kick off the show. At some point Chris lost the wig and shirt to reveal face paint, a blond Mohawk, and an assortment of tattoos, never losing the look of wild elation.

Teabaggin’s energetic performance truly entices participation from their crowd, with an almost constant mosh pit, head banging, and chanting of lyrics. This quality truly sets them apart from their peers with a memorable performance that’s both rampant and amusing. Their music combines traditional punk with a metal edge for a heavy, raw sound. Vocals range from racing to squealing, always in synch with the raging drums, striking bass, and vigorous guitar. With lyrics fluctuating from humorous to political, they truly embrace their punk roots.

Songs that truly stood out in the evening include “Flop the Nuts”, “Happy Feelings”, Propaganda”, “Cold Dead Hands”, and “Fuckin Dick”. Probably their most marketable song is “Rotten” which has a catchy alternative influence, with a noticeable guitar and winning vocals. “Bad Words” has a great intro, with a melody that shifts into a heavier sound, showing the band’s diversity and demonstrating a fluid sound. The crowd enveloped the floor during this song, truly engaged in the show. For hardcore punk fans that aren’t sure if Teabaggin is a fit for them, check out “Torture”. Teabaggin’s proclaimed drinking song, “Fire in the Sky” was said, “to be about women who cause men to start drinking, and all the men who love them for it”, incorporating an Irish influence into their ballistic yet brilliant chaos.

Each member really brings their own part to the band and they collectively know as a group how to rock out a crowd. Their album “Fire In The Sky” is available for purchase now and has received rave reviews from critics. They are currently working on new material for their second album which is scheduled to be released in mid 2010. The guys have played with groups such as Whole Wheat Bread, The Bastard Suns, Teenage Rehab, and Agent Orange. Once the second album is released the band plans to tour and promote, including areas in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, and New England. Their next show is in Orlando for a Battle of the Bands on January 23rd. For more information on purchasing their album, upcoming shows, and tour dates check their Myspace page www.myspace.com/teabagginsacmasters.

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
lml   lml

Teabaggin’ is:
Lead Vocals- Chris Scott
Drums- Dustin Walters
Bass- Jonny Bates
Guitar/ Backing Vocals- Robb Dean

www.myspace.com/teabagginsacmasters
For more information on Fair Tax go to www.fairtax.org.

For more information on One City Productions go to www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/One-City-Productions/177752733040?ref=ts.

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