Rock Fist Reviews

Review of Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun @ The Earl 6-19-2009
~Benjamin King

Location: Atlanta GA
Sample if you Like: Ghostland Observatory, The Pixies, Portus Head, The Melvins, The Killers
Current Record EP: “The Lighting Exhibit”

I think we all should start this review by thanking God for independent music, and for incredibly creative people. I think Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun is one of those bands that are some of the most creative musicians in the south east right now. For that reason they can do whatever they want for this band. It was hard for me to say their music is easily classified. Hence all the different “sample if you likes”. For that reason alone, they appeal to me and should to the masses.

Photo taken from band's myspace page

The show started off with a melodic rhythm and just busted into heavy guitars, keys, and electronic sounds. I was super surprised at how heavy they came off at points during the performance. I loved the fact that they created all these sounds and combined them into epic songs. The main singer and front girl’s voice, Lauren, had me captivated for the word go. The rhythm section of Jeremy, drums, and Micah, bass and keys, made me want to dance. While on the other hand the guitar team of Lauren and Greg made me want to create a ruckus, but in a good rock show way. At that moment I knew what their “mission statement” meant on my-space; something to the effect of just four friends on a collaboration of music. Doing this project no matter what happens. These four make this band, and I would hate to see them try and do it with anybody else. The songs are put together with robot precision. I mean right when another melody intertwines with a bass line or guitar riff, there will be a cool guitar effect (that sounds like an organ) riding along with it. May I also say that the band just fits together? I know it has nothing to do with the music, but the two girls just look classy and a friend of mine thinks “the dudes are on point”.

I am in love with the song “Autonomic- traits of a traitor” the hard keys had me moving my feet. It reminded of my drum and bass clubbing days. It also made me think, I wonder if they feel like Blondie did at CBGB, just creating something that makes people want to dance. It’s kind of tough for a hard rocking guy to say that. The song “Arpeggiator”, which Gregg takes lead vocals on, let me know I truly liked the band. He has a style that made me think of The Melvins and they are just one of my favorite bands of all time. On record it didn’t come off as hard as it does live. The only down side I had to the show was that I wished the vocals were turned up 1 or 2 decibels. I mean just a few notches so I could understand more without having heard the lyrics off of the record. I also was trying to buy a disk, but I had no cash on me. I asked for a disk, but ended up just heading home (while they were loading up). I pay for the music I want enough, and I know I’ll just buy a few at the next show. I’ll need a few to give to friends that I know will just love this band.

I can’t wait to go see this band again! I went to their web page on my-space and they are playing all over the place. People: catch them sometime soon, just about anywhere in Atlanta, and around the southeast. I wonder if they have toured the country as I know this band translates to that quality if they want to do that. I just hope they don’t change the chemistry of the band.

Rock Fist Rating:
Rock Hands in the air
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Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun is:
Gregg –Guitars & Vocals
Lauren- Guitars, Keys, & Vocals
Micah- Bass, Keys, & vocals
Jeremy- Drums, & Electronic drums/sampled drum sounds

www.myspace.com/todaythemoontomorrowthesun

Popularity: 55%

The 1st Rock Fist Review: May 17th Review of The Bastard Suns at SoCo Festival
Location: Atlanta, GA

That first chord resounds through every speaker… the beat of the drum begins pulsating within your body…the bass causing your fists to pump and head to rock… that voice echoes throughout the crowd, hypnotizing every ear… an intense rush fills the souls of every onlooker. We haven’t even reached the end of the first bar and the crowd is wild with enthusiasm and hungry for what’s to come. That was this year’s SoCo Music Experience with none other than The Bastard Suns.

Locally this band has made quite a name for themselves. Their fans are not only extremely loyal, but ecstatic to help in any way, making appearances at every show. For some it’s the love purely of the music. For other’s it’s a deep admiration and respect. For me, it’s the full combo. I see new arrivals perk up the way I first did upon hearing this reggae/ punk/ ska mix. Music that inspires and makes you just feel good to be alive and be apart of that moment.

Opening up with “Go For Broke”, got the crowd’s attention without difficulty. Swarms of drunken show seekers began clustering at the side stage to check out this as of yet unknown band, but what many could see was just the beginning of greatness to come. With booze in hand, and the party mindset, they were instantly hooked, and small mosh pits began emerging within the crowd. Followed by the soulful lyrics of “Ceases To Amaze”, the crowd was entranced, and began appreciating their music on a new playing field. This band can party, but they can also reach into your soul and express what we try to repress. “Stand the fuck up and fight for your right, and what you believe, never let another tell you that you can not achieve,” that lyric captivates peoples attention. In a genre and generation given little respect and even less of a voice, it’s encouraging and inspiring to all. Some one else relates to ME and understand the battles we face daily, is the general mindset.

Pure musical bliss is the best way I can describe their final song that night. “This Ones Gonna Hurt”, is quite possibly one of this bands best songs in which they put their best foot forward. The song is about their love of music and even references Rancid’s Radio lyrics, “When I got the music, I got a place to go…” Truer words were never spoken. Every soul in that crowd, every ear who hears those lyrics, feel that power take hold of whatever else is going on within. A better escape than any drug, and a better outlet than any rage or venting, music sets you free. The Bastard Suns live by this, and share that wealth of knowledge with each and every one of their fans. By the time their set was complete, and I turned around to face the crowd behind me, all I could see for row after row was faces sweating, heads knocking, fists in the air, rocking out! There must have been a collection of 500+ people gathered at that modest stage, hooked by the high one receives from those Bastards musical genius.

A great band is more than just talent. A great band is more than the records they sell, the number of songs they write, or even the size crowd they draw. A great band digs deeper and expresses whatever encouragement, outrage, or happiness they can to release for themselves, and relate to their fans. A great band will talk to you afterwards, and humbly accept your “ooohs” and “awes” with delight and modesty. This band embodies everything that a true rocker like myself appreciates, and has yet (and doubtfully ever will) to disappoint me professionally. If you have not yet experienced The Bastard Suns, I have only one question…. What are you waiting for? Find a place to go, at this bands next show.

~Kris Melton

Popularity: 29%

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
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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.

Popularity: 42%

Review of Sweden Rock Festival: June 3-6, 2009
~Mikey Reardon

Location: Sölvesborg, Sweden
If you like: Any rock or metal music at all!!

Each year, I make a pilgrimage to a conglomerate music fest. Last year was Virgin Mobile, prior year was Lollapalooza, etc. Little did I know in all of my fest seeking ventures that I was missing the Mack Daddy of all music fests – Sweden Rock.

Volbeat

I found out about Sweden Rock last fall; four days of some of the best Rock and Metal on the planet. Ahhhhhhh. Tossed together with a little ubiquitous cheese (Journey, Uriah Heep), and an I-don’t-really-get-it-but-what-the-hell slogan of “Fill your head with Rock”, the OMFG lineup promised to be a Rock Fest like no other You can check out the 2009 Festival bands here: http://www.swedenrock.com/index.cfm?pg=17&pr=1

Sevendust

On Wednesday night a must catch for me was Sevendust. Sure we share the same hometown, but I hadn’t seen them live yet. They gave an awesome show and though it was the lowest attendance day for the Festival (statistically), there were still thousands there to cheer them on. All of this was concurrent with and followed by lots of drinking.

Thursday was a busy, busy day. Lots of bands and not enough hours to catch them all: Pain, Volbeat, Candlemass, Flogging Molly, Ground Mower, Tyketto, ZZ Top and Twisted Sister. Whew. Volbeat and Ground Mower are two must hear (and see if you can) bands recommended to me by a number of Swedish die-hard metal heads and long time SRF attendees. Good call!

Flogging Molly

Both gave great shows and left their packed crowds chanting “En gång till !!”…and for those of you who don’t speak Swedish (like me, I had to ask) it means: One More Time. ZZ and Sister are always universal crowd pleasers, and thousands of people crowding together to see both bands in the misting rain and freezing temps just goes to show the Rock power both bands still command. All of this was concurrent with and followed by lots of drinking.

Ground Mower

Friday was another busy, busy day!! THOR, Unleashed, UFO, Motörhead and In Flames. If you love a good stage show, Thor did a lot of theatrics and not so much music. That evening saw the peak attendance at SRF, to the tune of about 36,000 people – which I will break down for you: The majority of those attending SRF are the Swedish (obviously), followed closely by neighbors in Denmark and Norway. You’re not going to run into native English speakers while you’re there (though everyone there does speak English). You’re also not going to run into many women. About 34,000 of the attendees are men. The 2,000 women attending are the girlfriend/significant other/fiancée/wife of the attending dudes (someone might have mentioned that to me before). So ixnay on thinking SRF is easy hook-up time.

In Flames

The weather gave a repeat and grander performance than the night before, giving up torrential downpours along with the freezing temps. Best I can tell, it didn’t keep a single person from coming out for Motörhead, including me and the couple making out. There was no such thing as elbow room at this show. Motörhead brought the bombardier with them, giving an all-out shagged up, rock out, performance!! By the end, the crowd was a bit crazed moving to the next stage where In Flames was up next. In Flames brought the axe licks and killer sound, plus the pyrotechnics (which were awesome even in the rain), that whipped up the already crazed audience into a foam at the mouth frenzy. All of this was once again concurrent with and followed by lots of drinking.

Motorhead

Saturday: Ok, I remember waking up what seemed very early and turned out was very early, with no chance of going back to sleep since the sun made it look like noon already, spending some quiet time in my hotel room, stumbling out later for breakfast and managing to make it to the Festival grounds, the rest of the day was a bust. I had every intention of seeing Soilwork, Immortal and Heaven & Hell that day, but it just wasn’t going to happen. Did I mention the constant drinking? I just now am recuperated from it which is why this review is so late. I don’t care who you are or what your cultural background happens to be (my family is Irish) – If you are a native English speaker, you can’t hold a candle to the Swedes when it comes to drinking. Period. But do not make the mistake of thinking the Swedes are alcoholics, because they are absolutely not. I just spent 4 days with 36,000 people crowded together and drinking without even one altercation,

fist fight, or brawl. Americans can’t say the same under any circumstances, with maybe the sole exception being the original Woodstock. The whole thing is a testament to Sweden as a people and a culture…..and as professional drinkers. My hat’s off to the entire country (and one particular blonde haired, blue eyed resident).

I have already RSVP’d for next year.

Rock Fist Rating:
Both rock fists up, fist pumping, waving in the air and screaming!!
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Popularity: 44%

It was already 8:30pm the night of the Sevendust/ Black Label Society show on Saturday, April 18th when I received the call confirming my own attendance. After backing out of pre-set plans to attend “Go Funk Yourself” at Lenny’s, disappointing several friends and bands, then chowing down a McChicken sandwich faster than you can order one, I was on my way to Wild Bills in Gwinnett, GA. My evasive maneuvering and non-justifiable speed (as far as the highway troopers are concerned anyways) got me outside the venue just as Sevendust was opening with their first song.

Photo by Lance Eubanks

Thankfully for me, there were two lines at the entrance. One was for those with tickets in hand, and the other was for those purchasing tickets. The line for purchasing tickets and will call was long to say the least, and my guess is most of those waiting in the line missed almost the entire Sevendust performance. After meeting (and accosting with a bear hug) Tim Hurd, friend and business associate, in the parking lot to retrieve my ticket, I happily took a spot in the shorter line and managed to only miss two or three songs.

After being branded with a wrist band, I walked inside to see the largest club in the Southeast transformed into tornado of enthused rock fans tucked into every nook, drink in hand, as far as the eye could see. Originally hearing about Wild Bill’s plan to host the event raised an eyebrow (okay, two), but to my surprise turned out to be quite the concert venue. Unlike most venues which have “blind spots” in which you can not view the stage, Wild Bill’s offers a clear view regardless of your location. House bars and beer carts were scattered amongst the floors, complete with scantily dressed girls who prompt the question, “Are those real?” and the anticipated over priced brew. Tiered floors offered the equivalent to stadium seating, and the enormous dance floor transformed into one huge pit area right in front of the stage.

An instant smile stretched across my face as I made my way down the steps towards the thunderous sound of “Waffle” bellowing from the stage. “Bring me a life, make my life worth something more,” sang Lajon Witherspoon (vocals) I couldn’t help but scream in unison with the audience as he flipped the microphone out towards the crowd. The energy both on and off stage was immense and contagious. Clint Lowery (guitar) and John Connolly (guitar) worked the entire stage as Morgan Rose (drummer) flipped his sticks and entertained everyone, including his drum tech who was visibly amused. Their combined talent and natural knack for performing was evident early on.

Photo by Lance Eubanks

As soon as the drums and bass began their tango, my ears instantly recognized “Black” kicking into gear. Lyrics like “I’m minding my own business, I ain’t doing nothing wrong,” make this song both an anthem of rebellion and self assurance. From the crowd’s response it is safe to assume that message resounds in the hearts of their fans.

“Ugly” was my personal favorite of the night. The lyrics came out of Lajon’s mouth like a punch, while Morgan’s vocals squealed in the background, creating a piercing, poetic, tormented sound, truly capturing the song’s essence. I used my right arm to hook onto the railing separating the pit from the higher tier level of tables, and stretched out over the crowd right by Vincent Hornsby (bass). Rock fists, sweaty bodies, and an echo of lyrics seized the floor. Like a surge of electricity, this band struck their audience and dare I say stole Black Label Society’s (the headlining act of the night) thunder.

My only regret was missing “Angel’s Son”, regardless of whether that was my fault for being late, or if it was overlooked on the set list. A small, insignificant care after such an energetic, balls to the wall performance. They have a gift for creating a soulful, deep, gut habitating sound, especially with their collaborating bass and drums. I talked with Morgan Rose’s drum technician, Reagan Wexler, after the show. “Now that you’ve seen a show, you’re going to compare future performances to theirs. They are that amazing live”.

Afterwards, I migrated back to the parking lot where the tour buses were piping with worker bees loading equipment and the band was conversating with fans and loved ones. Since Sevendust calls Roswell, GA home, it is always a treat for them to play the Atlanta area. With an 8am load in time the next morning and only a few precious hours to see home and family, it was truly an honor to be welcomed into their safe zone.

Photo by Lance Eubanks

The highlight of my evening would have to be meeting both Clint and Cory Lowery, whom I spoke with about their side project “Hello Demons… Meet Skeletons” which was released late last year. Cory, a talented producer, and Clint, a musician of all trades, have already begun talks on new material and getting back into the studio.

Tight lyrics, insatiable stage presence, obvious chemistry amongst members, and die hard fans are the making of an entertaining live show and Sevendust does not disappoint. They have been touring in the states and abroad for quite some time now, but plan on taking a break shortly after their future trip to the Middle East, where they will supporting and performing for our troops. If you get the opportunity to see them in a town near you, do yourself a favor and purchase that ticket.

~Kris Melton

www.sevendust.com
www.myspace.com/sevendust

Popularity: 37%

September 6th Review of The Drownout CD Release Show
Location: Atlanta, GA

The Vinyl was rapidly filling up as The Drownout took the stage the night of their CD Release party. You would never have guessed the numerous problems that arose only a few hours earlier, when the original two opening bands cancelled last minute. Luckily, local band The Judies stepped up to the plate as the opening band, and put on a very entertaining show to say the least. This of course only three hours after The Judies’ guitarist quit the group. None of these set backs or pot holes veered the show off course even a little. Once the guys (and chick) took the stage, they delivered little introduction and promptly went right into the first song with high energy and enthusiasm. The show must go on, and the bands playing that night embraced that determination.

The Drownout fits a genre of rock. Their funky/ indie/ dance rock is reminiscent of The Bravery and The Killers. Simple instrumentals paired with solid vocals and a splash of synth and keys makes their music ideal to dance to, as embraced by the crowd that night. Jason Jones (vocals and guitar) belted into the microphone, as Justin Marchan (bass) and Matt Baum (synthesizer) jumped around all over the stage. The energy was high throughout the entire set. Heather Johnston (keyboard) adds a touch of beauty in songs like Inflaming Desire and The Situation, with delicate high pitched notes. Although it was difficult to view the drummer through the crowd and the other four members on stage, as Matt Lynch (drums) jammed during Broken, you could tell he was giving it his all and enjoying every minute. Some songs like Mediocrity and If U Don’t Mind didn’t encompass their full talent or range, whereas songs like Inflaming Desire and Kaleidoscope have favorable melodies and potent vocals. Paper Trails had a great flow between the guitar and bass, strong drums, and a haunting introduction on the keys. Some songs reflected an 80’s vibe, like Gift Horse which immediately reminded me of The Breakfast Club, followed by Kaleidoscope whose guitar sounded influenced by The Police. Give them a listen and you’ll hear the connection! The song that most embodied their sound, and was also a personal favorite from their set, is High Waters. The repetitive instrumentals and strong presence of the synth and keys, makes this upbeat song fun and flirtatious.

This band has come a long way since it originated in 2005. Old members have left, new ones have joined, the typical transitions of the industry and makings of a band. But they have a tight sound and an immense stage presence. If you’re a fan of the East Atlanta, skinny jeans, indie rock scene you should definitely try on The Drownout. Their songs are short and fun, familiar yet new. Their new CD, Paper Trails and Binds, is available for purchase now, as well as their first CD, In Flagrante Delicto. Their next local performance will be on October 3rd with Martians See Red at North River Tavern in Sandy Springs, GA.

~Kris Melton

Popularity: 41%

Review of Winter Ransom’s 1.24.09 Performance

Sample if you like: Incubus, Hoobastank
Location: Atlanta, GA

The Vinyl was brimming with people as early as 9:30pm on January 24th, which is an accomplishment for any local show. The show itself was in fact a benefit for Music Education through the Atlanta Chapter of the Recording Academy, which combined with some of Atlanta’s rising locals, encouraged show-goers to get off the couch and into the pit. Ultra Drive took the stage first, and warmed up the crowd for their successors, Winter Ransom. The quartet had some issues during sound check, but their crowd never left the floor and once they opened into “The Getaway” everything seemed to come together. This alternative/ indie/ rock band is best compared to Incubus and Hoobastank, especially Jordan Williams (vocals) whose voice strongly resembles Incubus’ vocalist Brandon Boyd. The guys had great stage energy, including drummer Matt Donald, who radiated from his back of the stage location. Notable songs of the night include “A Way Out Of The City”, “Counting Backwards”, and “Choices and Crowded Streets”. “Hotel Boulevard” was their second song of the night, and the song that got my attention. With a heavy intro, distinctive bass by Andrew Longino, creative guitar pitches by Josh Longino and crazy energy from Williams, this song demanded and received attention. Both a personal and crowd favorite of the night was “cheapassheadphones”. With its squeaky guitar, funky rhythms, and squealing vocals this song is just plain fun. Although the guys could be a little tighter, they have the basics and the drive to be hellacious. Winter Ransom’s next local performance will be February 20th at Lenny’s in Atlanta with FishHawk and Big Chad Famous.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Rock Fist Up
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Winter Ransom is:
Lead Vocals/ Guitar- Jordan Williams
Lead Guitar – Josh Longino
Bass- Andrew Longino
Drums- Matt Donald aka Steve Technique

Popularity: 32%

Review of Whole Wheat Bread 5.13.09 Performance at The Drunken Unicorn

Location: Jacksonville, FL
Sample if you like: Social Distortion, Dr. Octagon, and Black Headz

Records:

It’s hard for me to put Whole Wheat Bread into A category or genre of music. Some may say they are a straight up punk band and other may want to throw them into a rap/rock genre. In my opinion they are more than all of those elements. You can toss reggae and metal in to, making them a true punk rock band.

Whole Wheat Bread

Aaron Abram on Guitar is so obviously well studied in his licks. I heard anything from a hardcore metal riffs, to the classic punk riffs in “Ode to Father”. He is also the classic punk front man guitar player/singer demanding attention. This band is a unit and is totally tight on stage. From what I could see and hear I didn’t notice any stage mistakes. Then again I should say it is the middle of the tour they are on. WWB is also a band that commands the crowd. Everyone in the room will know who is playing and the purpose of them rocking it. In that way they are a classic hip hop band. The crowd must be involved! Which I think also carries over to punk from early bands like the Beastie Boys. Joseph Largen is a phenomenal drummer. At one point I asked myself if he is studio drummer hired to never screw up. Then I noticed his stage antics, twirling sticks between fills and the classic toss and catch. He kind of reminded me of a Tommy Lee in that way! CJ on bass had his low end moving. I mean truly cooking! It’s been a long time since I’ve heard a bass player move that fast on songs like “lower class man”. Just when you think it’s over they can cross genres again and play a little punk rock version of a country two step “Old Man Samson”.

If there is any down side to WWB, it’s that will tend to pull a younger crowd just by nature of the music. So if your not into “dirty south punk rock” then it isn’t for you, but if your mind can reach across genres and sub-pop punk than you are in for a big treat. The only thing that would hold me back from seeing this band again is if they played a big 40,000 seat venue and I was way in the back. I think that punk rock and hip hop is best in smaller venues, where the artist can pull the crowd into the show. Lastly I just want to say that at my next WWB show I want to see some B-boys/B-girls ripping some break dancing moves on the dance floor. All the ones I know are going love this band and the shows. I also want to see a big old circle mosh pit full on 80’s style.

~Benjamin King

Rock Fist Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up, fists pumping, and hands waving in the air!
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Whole Wheat Bread is:
Guitar & Vocals- Aaron Abram
Bass & Vocals- CJ
Drums- Joseph Largen

Popularity: 39%

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%

Review of The Tips at Vinyl 5.15.09

Location: Atlanta, GA
Sample if you like: Rolling Stones, Waylon Jennings, Toots & The Maytals, Allman Brothers

The recently formed Atlanta locals, The Tips, have only been around since January 2009 and have already begun making a name for themselves across the Southeast, specifically Atlanta and Knoxville. They claim to be a genreless band with influences ranging from 30 years ago to the early 90’s, incorporating blues, country, jam, and classic rock appeal. Hearing what they sound like and actually hearing them are two extremes however. With a Mastodon show going on next door at Center Stage, The Tips received an overflow of new audience, mostly metal fans, all of whom took to their sound. Even at 9pm for the start of their set, Vinyl was packed, and from the first song to the last their crowd was hyped. More than once was I approached and relayed the message that this better be a good review.

Joe Marlow, vocals and guitar, has his own unique stage presence. His soulful voice radiates as his body does the “jiggle shakies” with a little dance. Although songs like “Baby’s Got Your Eyes” and “Country Boy” have a distinctive country flare, his voice is not whiny but foot tappin’ inspiring. Infact, all of their songs are very easy to dance to, as proven by a majority of the front row crowd. “The War” featured less country and more of a classic rock taste, not overly produced, but with appropriate accents and soulful keys courtesy of Brent Sandel. One of their new songs, “Gotta Have More” has a bluesier vibe put picks up the pace during the chorus with a perfectly placed guitar and harmonizing back up vocals.

There were several personal favorites and crowd pleasers that night. “Dagmar” received a great response thanks to the racing keys and jamming tunes. “Country Boy” encouraged whistles and mass dancing across the pit. The twangy meets groovy feel of this song makes it near impossible to stand still. By far “My Girl” was truly their best foot forward. The country-pop guitar jams out during the bridge, while the catchy chorus, “My girl, left me…” is instantly memorable. Matt Cahill, drummer, whipped out his harmonica for a musical breakdown that induced whistles and cheers.

Their crisp, tight sound is further complimented by their onstage appearance. Each member was dressed in suit and tie, fine tuning their image. If a mistake was made that night it was unclear to myself or the rest of the venue. The Tips are currently touring here and there across the Southeast, and have plans to release an album in mid-June. The album which is almost complete will be called “Indigent”. While several indie labels have shown interest, they are currently unsigned. For a show with great jams and a guaranteed good time, check out The Tips when they visit your town next.

~Kris Melton

RFR Rating:
Both Rock Fists Up
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The Tips are:
Guitar/ Vocals- Joe Marlow
Drums/ Harmonica/ Vocals- Matt Cahill
Keyboards/ Vocals- Brent Sandel

www.myspace.com/thetipsmusic
thetipsmusic@gmail.com

Popularity: 31%