ARTIST NAME – Katherine Neslund aka Katherine Lashe
COMPANY NAME – Syrens of the South
LOCATION – Avondale Estates, GA
PROFESSION/SPECIALTY/ SERVICES: Actress/ Model/ Burlesque Instructor/ Performer/ Producer
Contact Info:
www.syrensofthesouth.com
www.katherinelashe.com
www.katherineneslund.com
Services:
Syrens of the South offers Burlesque classes, private lessons, and party packs. For more information on their services and shows click here: http://syrensofthesouth.weebly.com/classes.html

Bio & Goals:
Katherine Neslund was born in Knoxville, TN on March 31st. Since moving to Atlanta she has modeled for multiple gaming books including the Special Agent on the cover of FBI:D20 by Holistic Designs. In 2007 she founded Syrens of the South Productions and spoke at the first ever burlesque panel at DragonCon. In 2009 Katherine filmed Ben 10: Alien Swarm, The Blind Side, Life As We Know It, The Lottery Ticket, Love is Where You Find It, Meet the Browns, My Super Psycho Sweet Sixteen, Past Life, Halloween 2, Sugarloaf, and Why Did I Get Married, Too?. In 2010 she has worked on the movie Hall Pass and the television show Fast Track to Fame.

Katherine has been featured as burlesque star Katherine Lashe in Access Atlanta, The Boston Herald, Tampa Bay Times, and Bust Magazine to name a few. She has performed at Burlesque Hall of Fame, The Great Boston Burlesque Expo, Viva Las Vegas, Asheville Americana Burlesque and Sideshow Festival, Coney Island Rockabilly Festival, Texas Burlesque Festival, The House of Blues for the New Orleans Burlesque Festival, Dallas Burlesque Festival, Windy City Burlesque Festival and Vancouver International Burlesque Festival. Katherine also teaches burlesque as part of the Syrens of the South ABCs & 123s Class Series as well as guest teaches all over the country.

As Katherine Lashe, she is known as the girl that puts the Cheese back in Cheese Cake and the Southern Sin-Sation. There is no doubt that she will leave her mark on the burlesque world with her fabulous productions, and attention to the finer details that make this Burlesque Revival go POW and continue her amazing acting career!.

Why she rocks:
What makes them stand out? Why should we refer fans to check them out? Katherine has performed in burlesque competitions all over the country spreading the good name of Atlanta, GA, where ever she goes. From Vegas, to Hollywood, from New York to New Orleans she’s quickly becoming a favorite on the burlesque circuit and she has just been accepted to the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival making her an international sensation! With all of her travels she brings back those experiences and shares them all with her audience and her students in an effort to keep the art of the tease alive and help to encourage a whole new crop of performers for Atlanta and the world to enjoy!
Current Project:
I have been chosen to perform at the Vancouver International Burlesque Festival (http://www.vanburlesquefest.com/) May 6-9, 2010. I have put together a plea for help on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=354528086756&ref=ts)  as well as on my website (http://katherinelashe.weebly.com/blog.html)  where people can donate money to get gift packages or they can come to any of my upcoming shows and purchase pictures, t-shirts or participate in my bake sale to help me get to Vancouver! I need to raise $700 for my plane ticket in order to be able to perform internationally for my first time!
Examples of work:
The attached photo was taken by Emmy Myers. Katherine Lashe did all her own hair and make-up, costume by Renea’le Roux.
YouTube link: www.youtube.com/user/retrofatale

ARTIST NAME – Jon Ruby
Location – Atlanta, Georgia (Buckhead)
PROFESSION/ SPECIALTY/ SERVICES: Professional Photographer

Contact Info:
Jaruby@gmail.com
http://www.JonRuby.com
www.blog.jonruby.com
804-347-3960

List of Services:
Available for hire for portfolio/ portraits, band photos, band merchandise promo, etc. Contact him for pricing and information.

Bio & Goals:
I grew up in Richmond, Virginia in a traditionally Jewish household with both parents as lawyers. I moved on to and graduated from Georgia Tech in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. I work full-time as a mechanical engineer for an Avionics firm just outside of Atlanta. I do hope that one day I can use my creative skills and background to make a difference in the world and the community through photography. In other words, it has been a dream of mine to make photography be my full-time occupation, as long as I still enjoy it.

Why he rocks:
Whether it be in engineering, design, music, art and photography, I’ve always had a creative mind and been one-of-a-kind and unique in my style for creating art. I believe that is why I’ve been told I have a unique style of photography. I enjoy shooting nature in its natural, undisturbed state. I also enjoy shooting people and things that don’t belong but are placed in the same situation or location. I also have a profound interest in shooting people with tattoos and piercings and would love to help educate people on the art of tattooing and the art of tattoos. I believe that tattoos and piercings get a bad rap in modern society, and sometimes it’s deserved, but most of the time it’s not. Tattoos and people with tattoos should be treated like the old saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.”

Examples of work:
See examples of his work below. See more of his work by visiting www.JonRuby.com

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

The last time Pour Habit visited Atlanta they came with some amazing bands, The Flatliners and Strung Out (both are must sees with must buy albums). During their set that night I was interviewing Jake Kiley, guitarist of Strung Out, and unfortunately missed their entire performance. The guys gave me their album “Suiticide” and upon reviewing it, I became totally hooked on their energetic and catchy punk meets metal sound. Thankfully, these talented musicians returned to The Masquerade and I was able to catch their amazing live performance prior to our interview. They opened for Iration, Passafire, and The Expendables- more noteworthy, must check out bands. Pour Habit’s front man, Chuck, is unforgettable with his repetitive crowd interaction, enthusiastic stage dives, and crazy T-Rex dance moves. These guys know how to fire up a crowd and entertain. We met after their set backstage and I had the opportunity to interview the two brothers in the band, Eric and Colin, joined later by Chuck and Steve. Sweat still dripping from their brows, the brothers crammed into a single chair next to me to discuss their upcoming album, touring plans, and the taste of sweet success.

Pour Habit is signed to Fat Wreck Chords, the label owned and operated by Mike of NOFX. How did this come to be?

Eric: We got signed to Fat (Wreck Chords) from Jordan of Strung Out hooked up shows with NOFX in San Diego and Anaheim. And he made Fat Mike watch us, like he physically held him down.

Colin: No he didn’t! That’s not what happened at all.

Eric: And then Chuck beat him at thumb wrestling so we got signed.

Now see that I believe.

Colin: No, what happened is that we had bands like Strung Out, The Expendables, Authority Zero always helping us out, and they would play with NOFX and mention us. So Jordan from Strung Out got us a show with them in San Diego and Mike watched the show. And then he was like, eh.

I think he was a little more than, eh.

Colin: Mike is always like, ehhhh. (laughter) So that’s how it happened. And now he has regretted it everyday since.

I seriously doubt that after just seeing you perform. Shawn recently left the band. Can you give us some insight on what happened to make that decision?

Colin: Touring’s hard. Our very first tour, I mean we had done some small like 2 week tours, but our first tour was with NOFX in Europe. And we had some tough tours, ya know, van and trailer. The four of us that are in the band now have all been so close for so long and he was just kind of new to the band and I think he just never really grasped the dynamic. And we’re hard people to work with. We only function by being dysfunctional. If we have to do normal sh** then we’ll explode. We like lose things, break stuff, and don’t write play lists, we never care.

Typical musician stuff, right?

Colin: No, I don’t have herpes. Just find out. Got a letter.

Eric: Did you?!

Colin: Yeah, so kinda not typical.

So ladies he’s clean.

Eric: How do you know ladies? (laughter) Shawn was kind of irreplaceable. We were bummed cause he’s such a good friend. It sucks that he decided to do normal person life.

Colin: We heard Dave Mustane was interested.

Really? Like Dave Mustane from Megadeth?

Colin: Uhhmmm, but we’d have to change our name to Mega Habit, so we were like nah I don’t think it’s going to work. (laughter) No we haven’t really looked for a new person. We feel like… it’s like when you’re looking for love. You can’t look for it you just have to find it.

So you’re not actually looking for a replacement guitarist, but if you come across one that might fit then you would consider it?

Colin: I want like a… panda bear. That would be awesome. A shredding panda that drinks. Has a temper, but is clean.

You release “Suiticide” in 2007 and I heard that you’ve been working on some new material. Do you have plans to go back to the studio this year?

Eric: That’s the first thing we’re going to do when we get home. Probably have one band practice with all the new songs and then get in the studio with our boy TJ Rivera, and he’s going to make us sound way better than we should.

Colin: It’s been hard cause we’ve been playing the same… we released the CD and then we were about to do our own CD on our own and then we got signed so everything kind of got pushed back. So it’s hard for us cause no one’s ever heard of it, but we’ve heard it for so long and we’re so excited for the new album. It will be delicious.

Does everyone play a part in writing new material?

Colin: Have you ever watched old school Jerry Springer? That’s how we write music. Chair throwing. There’s always like one calm guy, like kind of instigating, and then a song comes out of it somehow.

Eric: As Charles (Chuck) says we’re a bunch of monkeys sorting out bananas. (laughter)

Pour Habit has been touring heavily for the past year. Do you plan to continue doing so or will you be taking a break?

Eric: F*** no. You are a different breed of person to be doing this. Like seriously, you live in a van… like this isn’t even weird cause I’m always this close to him (points to Colin who is squished in the same chair next to him). No we want to be on the road as much as possible, hopefully with The Expendables. Those guys rule.

You’ve performed with bands such as Strung Out, Authority Zero, and Bad Religion. So, how cool is that?

Colin: That was amazing.

Eric: We wouldn’t be anywhere without these bands. We don’t ever get jaded or take anything. We just try and take it in. The thing is, is that they’re all nice people. That’s what’s cool. Like all these people you grew up watching are great people.

Your dad is friend’s with Strung Out right?

Colin: Yeah, he started Strung Out, but he was too crazy so they kicked him out. (laughter) Nah, but Jordan grew up close to us, and my dad is a drummer and would like go and help him tune his drums, so Jordan’s always been cool with us.

What other bands are on your “Must perform with…” list?

Eric: Slayer. That’d be cool.

Colin: That would be way cool. We get to play with a lot of those bands. We got to play with Bad Religion, NOFX, that’s always been cool, Strung Out, it’d be cool to play with some bands out of the genre. I’ve always been big into Avenged Sevenfold. We’re like into metal, me and my brother are. What other bands?

Eric: I want to tour with Wesley Willis if he was here.

Colin: Dude, I wanna tour with Lil Wayne. I do, I really want to tour with Lil Wayne. I think that’d be awesome.

Eric: We’re training.

Colin: We’re putting out to get on the next Lil Wayne tour.

Do you want him featured in one of you songs?

Colin: If Lil Wayne was in one of our albums, I don’t think we could put out another album.

Eric: I think we could afford another chair.

You guys have been together for over 5 years now. What are the best and worst parts about being a touring band?

Colin: Sitting in one chair being interviewed. We get to meet awesome people and see family that you would never get to see. We have family in Atlanta that’s good to see, that I would have never seen.

Eric: We got to stay with some family in Buffalo. Cool stuff like that.

If you had any advice for other aspiring artists what would it be?

Eric: Just keep playing no matter what. The mission is to just keep playing, seriously. No matter how shitty you are.

Colin: I’m still shitty and I get to play.

I’d hardly classify you as “shitty” after just seeing you perform. Well I loved the album you put out. When can we expect the new one?

Colin: It better be out this summer, or I’m just gonna seriously cry.

Eric: I don’t know, probably June. Let’s shoot for June. The songs are done we just have to record them.

After Eric and Colin’s chair almost broke I thanked the guys for their time, and who should walk through the door but the band’s radical front man Chuck and bassist Steve. To my delight they insisted he answer a few questions himself.

What’s your favorite part about performing?

Chuck: I get to be myself. And my nipples are getting hard!

(Laughs) How are you enjoying Atlanta so far?

Chuck: Sick. Awesome.

Steve: You guys need to check the thermostat.

Chuck: Ask some random stuff.

Okay, so have you ever ended up in a Motel 6, hammered, with some fat chick next to you?

Chuck: I have ended up in Motel 6 with Steve’s big head next me, yes.

Are you seriously going to The Clermont later tonight?

Steve: Yeah.

Chuck: If our bus call allows.

It’s a landmark in Atlanta. You have to go.

Chuck: There are some 60 year old big ass titties there.

Have you heard of Blondie? She can crush beer cans with her boobs.

Steve: Yeah I’ve seen her!

Chuck: Was that her? I have seen her!

Is that why you want to go back?

Steve & Chuck: Yes!

Big thanks to all the guys in Pour Habit for a fun interview and an unforgettable show.

Pour Habit is:
Vocals- Chuck
Drums- Colin
Guitar/ Vocals- Eric
Bass/ Vocals- Steve

Below are pictures from the Pour Habit’s performance the night of Rock Fist’s interview. Click a picture to view a larger image. All photos taken by Susie Ceruto of Shock and Awe.

 

 

 

 Pour Habit released their album “Suiticide” in July of 2007. The album is now available at stores and iTunes.

    

 

 

 

 

 

To see when Pour Habit is coming to a venue near you, check out their currently scheduled shows and visit their web pages listed below:

Apr 24 2010 12:00P
Groezrock Punk Festival
Meerhout, Belgium
Apr 25 2010 6:00P
Garage w/ Pennywise, Bouncing Souls, Strike Anywhere
Saarbruken
Apr 26 2010 6:00P
Markthalle w/ Pennywise, Bouncing Souls, Strike Anywhere
Hamburg
Apr 27 2010 6:00P
SO36 w/ Pennywise, Bouncing Souls, Strike Anywhere
Berlin
Apr 28 2010 6:00P
Mephisto
Hannover
Apr 30 2010 1:00P
Perron 55 Queensday Fest
Venlo
May 1 2010 6:00P
Underground
Cologne

 

Pour Habit’s official website: www.pourhabit.com
Pour Habit’s Myspace: www.myspace.com/pourhabit
Pour Habit’s Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-Pour-Habit/210396694461

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kellyn Willey
Vintage Makeup & Hair Styling
PinUpGirl! Cosmetics
566 Blvd SE, Suite A,
Atlanta, GA 30312

CONTACT INFO:
404-688-7468
info@pinupgirlcos.com
www.pinupgirlcos.com
www.twitter.com/pinupgirlcos
www.myspace.com/pinupgirlcosmetics
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Atlanta-GA/Atlantas-PinUpGirl-Cosmetics/163355241510
CLICK ON HER LINKS TO VIEW HER AMAZING WORK

 Bio:
I have been doing makeup since I was in middle school; attacking my friend’s with ambush makeovers. In high school, I needed to express my obsession with cosmetics, so I joined the drama club to do theatrical makeup for our school’s various productions. Then I shortly became the makeup director. In college, I couldn’t escape my love of makeup, so I started to incorporate it into my assignments for art school. Photography became an outlet for me to truly capture the works I created in makeup. After graduating with a BFA in Digital Art in 2006, I worked on dozens of freelance projects doing hair and makeup throughout the state of Georgia. Then I came across, PinUpGirl! Cosmetics when it was in Little 5 Points over 3 years ago. I was hired as a shop girl who did makeup on the side. Then I was given the position of store manager where I performed as a makeup artist and photographer. In the summer of 2009, after a year of having had the shop relocate to Grant Park, I became owner. My goals are simple for myself and my company. I would like the shop and our brand to keep expanding to an online store and have multiple locations around North America and possibly the world; reminiscent of our favorite fashion houses. I would like to broaden my career in makeup, hair styling and photography with more varied and unique projects involving film and television.

Why she ROCKS:
I rock because every time I do makeup, it’s so exciting to see the transformation on a client for their everyday look, into vintage glam. I rock because it rocks to see them so excited and so pleased with themselves.

PinUpGirl! Cosmetics offers an array of services including make-up, photo, and even private parties. Check out their entire list of services and prices at www.pinupgirlcos.com. Make a great gift for a special lady or to treat yourself!

Below are some examples of her work. Click on a picture to view it larger. To view MORE of Kellyn’s amazing work go to one of the link’s listed above under Contact Info.

Photo by Jon Ruby

Lauren Vaughan
Makeup Artistry
Atlanta, GA and Dallas, TX

CONTACT INFO:
ldvaughan@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/ldunv
404-935-3821

BIO & GOALS:
Born and raised in Atlanta, GA. I didn’t grow up with a mother who wore much makeup but for some reason it intrigued me. I would always experiment with different things as a child. Always wanting to go up to the Eckerd’s and spend my allowance on lipstick and face masks. I grew up in the punk rock scene and saw all sorts of crazy eye makeup as well as hairstyles and clothing which really got my mind rolling. I was always into art but never knew how to put it on paper so I started putting it on faces. Mostly mine… until my friends asked me to start doing their makeup at the age of 12, maybe younger. After that, my passion came alive and I started working for a photographer named Paul Amodio at the age of 16 and kept practicing on my face as well as my friends. As the years have gone on I have learned new tricks, new looks, tips, etc. I have worked for several photographers, MAC cosmetic counters, weddings, salons, TV, and fashion shows as well as Kris Melton of Rock Fist herself! My goals are to continue to be inspired by rock and roll, fashion designers, nature, as well as women of all skin tones, and really take my artistry to the next level. I also plan to get my certification in Permanent Makeup. I hope to never get sick of what I love and to continue learning new things everyday.

Why she ROCKS:
I love trying new things…things you wouldn’t necessarily see on someone in church, ya know? Something you might see at a show or art gallery or maybe even something inspired by the 40’s, 50’s, or 60’s- but crazier. I think people are sometimes afraid of the unknown. I think some people need to be pushed to open their mind a bit and see some newer, crazier, FUN looks. I want people to realize they don’t have to take themselves too seriously and they can still look rockin’.

Photo by Jeff Wolk/ MUA by Lauren Vaughan/ Hair by Carla Kootsillas and Richie Kirvin/ Models: Brittany Pacheco, Chloe Wright, Sedona/ Clothing: SarahLou Designs

 Photo by Jeff Wolk/ MUA and Hair by Lauren Vaughan/ Model: Ally Kulp

Photo by Jeff Wolk/ MUA by Lauren Vaughan/ Hair by Carla Kootsillas/ Model: Chloe Wright

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

I had the opportunity to interview the guys in SidAerial backstage at Rock Fest held at Planet X in Marietta, GA courtesy of Local Productions. In 2009 SidAerial released their album “Look What I Found” which was well received in the Atlanta music scene. While last year brought many changes to the group, losing a guitarist and gaining a new drummer, SidAerial feels that the music is better than ever. The guys had just finished loading in to the chaotic venue when they met me backstage to talk about their new format and sound, their upcoming album, and what they hope to accomplish in 2010.

On your band’s Myspace page you have a message for fans saying “New music coming soon”. Are you working on another album?

Jonas: Yeah, we’re doing the pre-production right now. Probably set up to record sometime in April. We’re going over our options right now on who we want to record with and how we want to get it done. It should be ready before the summertime.

So you’ve already started writing songs, how many do you have written at this point?

Jonas: We have about six and we’ve changed our line-up; minus one guitar player and we have a new drummer. The whole dynamic of the band has changed. The whole sound of the band is really going to change. So we have six new songs and they’re in the works right now.

You say the bands sound is going to change. You’ve been quoted as saying that SidAerial pulls inspiration from metal, country, hip hop, and punk. Will the new sound stay true to your old colors, or do you want to branch off into a new sound?

Wud: I’m the new guy in the band, and what we mean by that is that we all come from different backgrounds as far as our musical upbringing; myself being the jazz, gospel, R&B, hip-hop guy. And all of that is going into the new sound of SidAerial. Which quite frankly I think is a better sound because of all of the different breeds coming together.

Do you think the new sound will reach a new audience?

Duncan: Yes, this is something that’s going to touch more people. We’ve had a pretty good run with touching (band mates begin laughing) yeah, touching each other. We have a pretty good run with touching folks with the lyrical content and the type of music we play. The new sound we’re pumping out is a lot more soul-felt. We think a broader base will be impressed by what we got.

So does everyone in the band play a part of writing new music?

Jonas: I write everything. (Band mates react with sounds of disagreement and laughter) It’s a collaborative effort for sure. We all kind of throw in our own ideas, and really everybody brings good ideas to the table. A lot of them don’t get denied and they end up becoming songs. We could have songs with riffs that Duncan wrote and I or Aaron wrote. Even Wud comes up with riffs on the drums. I think that’s one of the reasons that the music is so dynamic. We have so many different influences that go into each and every riff.

Duncan: The idea is that we are all equals, and that we all have the ability to write songs. It takes a long time to craft songs because we all have our hands in the cookie jar, there’s never one person saying, “We’re going to do this”, it never works that way. Everyone gets their hands on something and tears it apart, and builds it back up, and throws it back in the pot, and it gets mashed up again until we finally come up with something where we’re all like “That’s awesome”. It takes time, but the effort really shows.

You’ve shared the stage with bands like Sevendust and Taproot. Is there a band you feel has influenced SidAerial that you would like to share a stage with someday?

Jonas: I’m really digging on Red at the moment. And we’re working on some stuff to maybe get on tour with those guys this year sometime, which would be lovely. I’ve had both of their CDs in my CD player for the past two months. I’ve been listening to Mastodon a lot too. And to know that we used to practice down the hall from those guys and to see what they’ve become is inspiring.

What are the band’s plans for 2010?

Duncan: Besides just going out and gigging the death out of this year, the album is pretty much what we really want to get done. And we’re constantly trying to move out into a bigger circle around our local area, but eventually to tour by the end of the year. Book a solid tour and make that our schedule. 2010 will hopefully be the year that we get out and make this a reality.

Sid Aerial is:
Jonas Lagana (Vocals)
Aaron Andrus (Guitar/Vocals)
Duncan Niederer (Bass/Vocals)
WuD (Drums/Vocals)

SidAerial’s album “Look What I Found” is available for purchase on iTunes or clicking the banner below:

To see when SidAerial is coming to a venue near you, check out their currently scheduled shows and visit their web pages listed below:

Feb 5 2010 8:00P
The Music Store Showcase @ Apache Cafe
Atlanta, Georgia

Feb 13 2010 8:00P
House Of Tunes Music Hall
Beaufort, South Carolina

Feb 26 2010 8:00P
The Rock Shop
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Mar 6 2010 4:00P
2010 Jubilee Festival
Selma, Alabama

Apr 17 2010 8:00P
TBA
Atlanta, Georgia

Apr 23 2010 8:00P
SoHo’s
Columbus, Georgia

Jul 31 2010 8:00P
SoHo’s
Columbus, Georgia

SidAerial’s Myspace: www.myspace.com/sidaerial
SidAerial’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/SidAerial/45737997093

Pictures from AM Conspiracy’s performance taken by Susie Ceruto of Shock & Awe (click on the picture to enlarge it).

I had the pleasure of interviewing all the guys in AM Conspiracy at Rock Fest held at Planet X in Marietta, GA courtesy of Local Productions. With all the madness occurring inside the venue/ arcade and the yucky weather outside, which was both cold and wet, I was grateful the band invited me on their RV for some good conversation and a staple of all musicians, pizza. Lead singer, Jason Jones, is probably best known as the singer of Drowning Pool after Dave Williams’ death, but he has found a new love with AM Conspiracy and is excited for the unknown road ahead of them. This entertainingly funny band of Floridians shared never-to-be released personal videos, their collection of tattoos (Jason brings his equipment on the road!), and their upcoming plans as seasoned musicians in a band that’s just getting started. Most of the interview is below. The rest was either off limits, too crude, or indecipherable due to immense laughter.

Kris Melton with AM Conspiracy

So you guys literally just released your self-titled debut album in the past week is that right?

Jason: It was actually this past Tuesday (1/12). It was a wonderful day for us.

Dean: It’s very exciting to have a record out.

Jason: After 5 years of beating that shit to death, it’s finally done. It’s out.

So you’ve been a band for 5 years?

Kenny: Yes, that is correct. Kenny says with a smile.

So now that the album is released, what plans do you have for 2010?

Jason: Our overall plan is world domination. That’s what we’re here for. I’ll be doing that tomorrow, you can come back around here and I’ll be sitting here doing that same shit. Nah, we’re actually going to tour as much as is humanly possible until everybody’s ole ladies tell them to f* off because they’re never home. That’s what we’re trying to do here.

Dean: Except for keep our ole ladies.

So you have definite tour plans for the year, or are they still in the works?

Jason: We’re on tour right now, so it’s kind of definite, but this tour is only about 2 weeks and then we go back home. Hopefully we’ll only be home for a couple weeks and then we’ll be back out. That’d be damn skippy.

Do you have plans to make a music video?

Jason: I think we’re supposed to make a video for “Pictures”. We’re basically just waiting on the label to give us the go ahead and hopefully it’ll be a good time.

Speaking of labels, you decided to sign with a brand new independent label, Burnhill Union Records. How did that come to be?

Jason: Well for one thing Shaun Glass formerly of Soil who is now in Dirge Within is one of my really, really good friends. And knowing that he’s behind it, that he’s going to push everything he can into the band and the label’s the same way- we are their “flagship” band.

Dean: Second that motion.

Jason: So it just seemed like a better idea for us cause we don’t want to get lost in the shuffle and have a record that’s somewhere that nobody’s hearing. So we knew they’d get it out pretty quick.

Rob: It does suck when it sits in a vault somewhere. No one ever hears it or sees it.

Jason: Rob was in a band called Still Naïve and that happened to them.

Rob: We were on Maverick.

Going back to “Pictures”, the song was mixed by Randy Staub who has done work with bands such as Metallica. How did he get introduced to your album?

Dean: He really wanted to do it.

Jason: In my previous band he did our whole record, and the placement of the instruments and everything was just really good, especially considering what he had to work with.

Kenny: We’re supposed to be positive. We will no longer be sarcastic.

Jason: Strike through that, he just did a really good job. So when it came time to mix this record I wanted him to do at least one song cause that’s pretty much all we could afford. He’s extremely expensive, but it sounds f*n great. We actually got pushed back from when he was supposed to start mixing it, it was pretty funny cause they call us up and go, “Yeah, he’s running a little behind, he’s doing the new Alice N Chains record”. So I’m like, I can’t bitch about that.

So I’m sure most people know you (Jason) used to be the singer for Drowning Pool. Do you feel people are expecting something from you that’s similar to Drowning Pool or that this new band will let you run in whatever direction you want?

Jason: That is why I am in this band because it is completely opposite from anything having to do with that period in my life. I’m much happier now and it’s a good time. They’re happier, I’m happier, everybody’s one big happy f*n family. Hooray!

I always like to ask this question, especially since Rock Fist namely focuses on local artists. Do you have any advice for other up and coming musicians?

Jason: Get a really good lawyer. Or definitely get a lawyer, and make sure they’re pretty decent. Get a lawyer.

Drew: Make sure you can play your instrument.

Dean: Just do your work. You gotta put your nose to the grind everyday. You can’t slack. You gotta be out there and play to 5 people or play to 500 people. We did it just the other day and now we’re here playing in front of…

Jason: 3 or 4 people

Dean: 10 people hopefully tonight as opposed to the 5 that we did 2 nights ago.

Jason: But those 5 people loved it. Those 5 people bought us more Jager than last night in front of triple the crowd.

Dean: And that’s 15 so…

Kenny: There was one drunk guy there that just fed us a bunch a jager and he probably woke up the next day and went, “Shit, how much did I spend? Why did I buy those guys that?”

So is Jager the liquor of choice for AM Conspiracy?

All: Yes.

Jason: Unfortunately, yes.

Like straight Jager or…

Jason: F* that shit; I don’t put Red Bull in my Jager.

Kenny: I prefer it with Red Bull, but ya know I’ll do it straight.

(Guys debating over to add Red Bull, or not add Red Bull…)

Kenny: I got a box of tampons for whenever you want to borrow one.

I’m a red-headed slut kind of girl myself.

Jason: You know what, we’ve talked about fisting, red headed slut girl… ya know what, I’m gonna marry you. It’s gonna happen.

And then you can give me tattoos and we’ll just live happily ever after.

Jason: I’m down; let’s go right now to Vegas. How do we get there?

Dean: We’ll swing by tomorrow.

Since you’ve made it know that you like to partake of the beverage, I’m assuming there’s got to be a funny story where someone lost clothing or ended up in a weird location, there’s got to be a good one.

Jason: You have no idea, there’s so many of them.

Drew: You do not have enough tape in that machine.

Jason: We’ll actually show you a quick video snippet of when there’s too much Jager going on. So sometimes we drink a lot of Jager, like a lot too much. If that even makes any sense.

Drew: Nope.

Dean: My Deanism’s are rubbing off on them.

Jason: Yeah he’s been trying to rub off on everybody in the band, but none of us are really into it. He even offered cross arming but everybody’s like… nah…

Rob: Don’t rub me off. No, don’t rub me off.

You’re a very close-knit band. I’ve heard about spooning (this was prior to recording unfortunately), rubbing it out…

Jason: Oh yeah, we’re like this

You take care of each other, whatever the need is.

Drew: Just to be clear, I’m not gay.

Jason: We call him “In the Rye”, cause he’s kind of like the Catcher, ya know, in the Rye. But yes, we tend to get drunk and stupid sometimes and I know that’s hard to believe since we’re coming across so intelligent right now.

I’m really finding hard to believe looking at all of you.

Kenny: I bet she’s actually finding it hard to believe we can drive the tour bus anywhere. so how do you drive this thing again? (Whispers) Very carefully.

Drew: We don’t drive this thing carefully, what are you talking about?

Whoever is the least drunk drives, right?

Dean: It’s like drawing straws. Can you grab the straw? No. Can you grab it? Maybe. Then you’re driving. Whoever can grab and actually focus on the straw gets the keys and everyone else braces. We all pray for a safe drive.

Jason: See this is what kills me when we headline, cause I can’t drink until after we get at least 3 or 4 songs in, because I will literally will end up naked on the stage, and it’s not really pretty.

That might be a good promotional tool for the band though; videos would pop up on You Tube everywhere.

Dean: That’s not the kind of promo we’re looking for with this mother f*er.

(The guys shared some hilarious videos from on the road with me at this point, but asked if I could leave the footage and what was shown out of the interview. Sorry Rock Fisters! Take your chances searching the web. Since Planet X is both a venue and a Whirlyball/ Lasertag spot we jumped back into the interview discussing the games.)

Dean: Do they have dodgeball in there?

No, but they have Lasertag.

Jason: I’m not a Lasertag kind of guy. I’ll play dodgeball. Hell yeah.

Dean: You know what they gotta get next door is croquet.

Croquet?

Dean: Kenny and I are avid, avid croquet players.

Jason: When was the last time you played croquet mother f*?!

Dean: Doesn’t matter, its croquet.

Jason: “We’re avid croquet players”, like he does everyday!

Dean: Used to do it all over the place, it’s a good time. You gotta play with the crazy rules, that’s when it gets to be a good time.

How do crazy rules apply to croquet?

Jason: It’s just like prison when he plays it guys just come over and f* him in the ass. I’m sorry, in about 3 hours you’ll probably have about 4 ½ minutes of footage you can actually use. We did this thing for NBC and the only footage we have is of us retarded, like hammered drunk.

Dean: NBC loves us, I just want to say.

So you guys are going to be on NBC sometime soon?

Dean: Did you really just see those videos? No, no we’re not. I doubt they’ll use any of it.

Kenny: I don’t think she wants to hang with us anymore.

Well I’m going to try and wrap up the interview, but this was fun, you guys are great.

Drew: But we have so much more to talk about.

Kenny: I don’t let my kids hang out with us, but we are a wholesome family band.

AM Conspiracy is:
Vocals – Jason “Gong” Jones
Drums – Dean Andrews
Bass – Kenny Harrelson
Guitar – Drew Burke
Guitar – Rob DeHaven

Below are pictures from the AM Conspiracy’s performance the night of Rock Fist’s interview. Click a picture to view a larger image. All photos taken by Susie Ceruto of Shock and Awe.

 

 

AM Conspiracy released their debut self-titled album on January 12, 2010. The album is now available at stores.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To see when AM Conspiracy is coming to a venue near you, check out their currently scheduled shows and visit their web pages listed below:

Upcoming Shows

Feb 19 2010 8:00P
Lyrica
Orlando, Florida

Feb 27 2010 8:00P
DJ & Gina’s
Summerfield

AM Conspiracy’s official website: www.amconspiracy.com
AM Conspiracy’s Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/amconspiracy
AM Conspiracy’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/amconspiracy