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Artist of the Month: The Postelles

May 2, 2011 By 1 Comment


Photo Credit: Harper Smith

This month ESBMusic is featuring one of NYC’s own, The Postelles. June 7th will see the release of the band’s self-titled debut album on 1+ Records. The record, co-produced by band and The Strokes’ Albert Hammond, Jr., exudes explosive and exciting rock that takes you back to the sweet sounds of the 50’s and 60’s.

Comprised of Daniel Balk (lead vocals/rhythm guitar), David Dargahi (vocals/lead guitar), John Speyer (bass) and Billy Cadden (percussion) the quartet formed in high school and started playing shows around Manhattan by the time they were seniors. Along the way, they ran into Albert Hammond, Jr., who provided encouragement and co-produced their debut EP, White Night. The EP created a buzz both in the States and in the U.K., where influential Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe began playing the title track.

With their EP gaining traction, they took to the road and were soon sharing a stage with the likes of Kings of Leon, Interpol, Free Energy, The Kills, Vampire Weekend, The Wombats and Jack Penate. In addition to playing major festivals such as Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo (twice) and CMJ, The Postelles performed at The Who Tribute Concert at New York City’s Carnegie Hall and even recently supported the legendary Chuck Berry. Looking to harness the energy of their time on stage and parlay it into their full-length, they headed back into the studio with Hammond in 2010.

Throughout their career, the band has seen their music getting mainstream exposure. Songs “123 Stop,” was featured in the trailer for How Do You Know, which starred Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson and Jack Nicholson, while “White Night,” another track from the album, was tapped by Fox’s Raising Hope and the CW’s Vampire Diaries and 90210. Additionally, their video for “White Night” was named Video of the Day by FUSE and Paper Magazine and “Sleep on the Dance Floor,” premiered on Nylon this past March.

While I wasn’t around in the 50’s and 60’s, listening this band I feel transported back in time. With the first notes of “White Night” I was instantly charmed by their old time rock n’ roll sound. Their geared up, retro rock is something that you will want to listen to over and over again. The album never fails to disappoint; song after song flows into the next giving the listener head bobbing and dancing melodies featuring slick guitar licks and drums that will keep you dancing and put a smile on your face. Fans of artists like Buddy Holly and Same Cooke are sure to fall in love with this record.

Stand out tracks: “123 Stop,” “Boys Best Friend,” and “Can’t Stand Still”

ESBMusic has the chance to touch base with the band to talk about their musical influences, what is was like opening up for Chuck Berry, thoughts on the music industry and what their plans are for the upcoming summer.

ESBM: How did you come up with the name “The Postelles?”
Postelles: It was a few days of going through a lot of ridiculous names that brought us to The Postelles. It was a throwback name, a nod to the Motown era.

ESBM: The Video for “Sleep On The Dance Floor” has a 50′s type theme to it. Your songs have been described as 50′s esque rock, who are some of the bands from that era that have influenced you? What is it that draws you to this era? What did you grow up listening to?
Postelles: The 50′s was when it all began, in terms of rock n’ roll bands getting together to create a sound. Before that it was more one person, in terms of early blues players like Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters but than all of the sudden Buddy Holly formed the Crickets and Elvis had his amazing band featuring Scotty Moore. It’s very inspiring to hear how they created this amazing sound so early on without thousands of bands to listen to as you can nowadays on the internet.

ESBM: You had the chance to open for the legendary Chuck Berry. What was that experience like?
The Postelles: It was like going back in time. For one night we felt like we were there with Chuck when Rock n’ Roll began. Chuck is one of the only people around who people like Paul McCartney, Keith Richards and Eric Clapton would be amazed to play with, so for us to say, “Hey, we did it!” is pretty amazing.

ESBM: You have a tour kicking off in June with two nights in your hometown. Being from NY and having played here, what is your favorite venue to play? Does NYC have the best audience?
Postelles: NYC has a special audience for us, because it’s our hometown but I know the New York audience can be harsh on bands coming in from out of town, so it’s all relative. I would say our favorite venue to play is the Bowery Ballroom. We’ve played there so many times, we almost feel like the house band.

ESBM: Your music have been featured in movie trailers and television shows like Vampire Diaries and Raising Hope. Do you like the mainstream exposure?
Postelles: Sure we do. We want as many people as possible to hear our music. When our songs were featured on those shows, it was tasteful and fun, so we were down with it.

ESBM: New York Magazine’s “Vulture” entertainment blog recently featured the video of the track “Hold On.” What will be the next music video?
Postelles: We are working on a few as of now. We are hoping to do a video for “123 Stop,” so that’ll probably be the next one.

ESBM: You guys offer a free music download on your website, what are your thoughts on the future of the music industry? Do you feel like giving away free music is a way to get more people exposure and create a larger fan base?
Postelles: Giving away music for free is definitely going to make people more inclined to listen to your music. But at this point, if any listener wants music for free, they can have it. Its unfortunate that music has lost it’s value, but that is why more bands like us are having our music in television shows and all that. Touring and syncs are the ideal ways to make money. The future of music is bright, there will always be great bands around, but the music industry is a different story. There will have to be a drastic change in the industry’s strategy to promote music and thrive as well.

ESBM: This June you are going out on a tour in support of your new album, are there any other plans for a further summer tour?
Postelles: We are planning our summer right now. We will definitely be playing more shows this summer, where and when is what we are figuring out now, but keep checking up on our website and hopefully we’ll be coming to your town.

For more information on The Postelles check out their official website, MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter pages. The band is giving a download of their song “Hold On” FREE Get it below and check out the full album when it drops this June.

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Artist of the Month: The Twees

April 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment


This month ESBMusic is featuring the NYC quartet The Twees. Comprised of Jason Abrishami (guitar and vocals), Daniel Edwards (drums), David Kaplan (bass and vocals), and Jon Zuckerman (guitar and vocals) the post-punk band has a sound that will instantly catch your ear.

This past January The Twees released their latest EP entitled These Girls. The five track compilation that you will want to listen to over and over. Songs like “These Girls,” “Give It Up,” and “Wishful Thinking Youth” feature high intensity action packed melodies featuring high, speedy guitar riffs making you wanna kick it and hit the floor.

I had the opportunity to see the band live earlier this year and their magnetism blew me away. There was an intensity and fervor that crept out into the crowd. Their distorted, garage pop rock has an 80’s post-punk inspiration that could appeal to any music lover.

ESBMusic caught up with The Twees to discuss their musical influences, what’s behind the meaning of The Twees, how they come up with songs, and their plans for the summer.

ESMusicWhat is the meaning behind your name The Twees?
Jason: My friend came back from London during the Summer of 2008 & was constantly using the slang that they had over there. I was interested in learning some of it so I Googled “British slang.” The word “Twee” popped up and grabbed my attention. It means someone who is disgustingly cute.

ESMusic: This past October you guys played CMJ. Have you played it before? Did you find that it has increased your presence on the music scene?
Twees: We haven’t performed at CMJ before, but it was quite the interesting experience. It did help as a good reference to tell people we’ve done CMJ, but getting onto a good bill can be a little tricky.

ESMusic: You guys released a video for “On the Spot” featuring you playing. What is your next video release going to be? Will it be the same format or will you put in a story line?
Twees: We’re working on doing a new video really soon, but it will have more of a story line.

ESMusic: You performed on Break Thru Radio this past year. What was that experience like?
Twees: It was awesome! Those guys are really nice & dug our stuff. They still help us out here and there by giving away free tickets to our shows/promoting them.

ESMusic: At your live shows you have everyone come up on stage during “Wishful Thinking Youth,” what started you guys to do this? Who came up with the idea?
Twees: It all started last Summer (2010) at Lit Lounge where Jason was a little intoxicated and thought it would be a fun idea to have the crowd join us in dancing to that song. Thank god it worked then, and basically every time after that.

ESMusic: Your sound is reminiscent of older punk pop music, who are your main influences?
Jason: My main influences include: The Velvet Underground, Television, The Clash, Bloc Party, The Beach Boys, The Strokes, etc
Daniel: The Clash, Squeeze, Elvis Costello, Kings of Leon
David: Queens Of The Stone Age, Led Zeppelin, Foo Fighters

ESMusic: When you write a song do you write the melody and lyrics together or one then the other? What inspires you?
The Twees: One of us basically comes up with the idea of the song and we work on it all together piece by piece until we’re comfortable with what we just made.

ESMusic: You’ve played around the tri-state area lately. What is your favorite place to play? Are the crowds the same?
The Twees: We love playing everywhere so this question is a little tricky. Personally I (Jason) really liked performing in New Jersey at The Stanhope House – it’s a cool spot. The crowds are different though.

ESMusic: You recently released your EP, any plans for a full album in the future?
The Twees: We plan on releasing new material in the near future, whether it be a LP or EP – expect some news real soon!

ESMusic: What are your plans for this summer?
The Twees: To tour a bit, get our music heard more, and write some new material.

For more information on The Twees check out their official website, MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter pages. Get their EP These Girls now on iTunes!

The band is also currently in the running to play the 2011 Warped Tour. To Vote for them click here!

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Artist of the Month: The Naked And Famous

March 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment


With a name like The Naked and Famous they’re sure to get attention, but it’s their music that will keep you remembering it. This month ESBMusic is featuring the New Zealand band who has been gaining buzz with their exciting, yet emotive and ominous electro-pop.

It’s this awesome musical dichotomy that has landed them success not only in their homeland (their single “Young Blood” debuted at number one in the NZ chart in 2010), but stateside with their music featured on a number of shows: the CW’s hit series Vampire Diaries and Gossip Girl along with Covert Affairs, NBC’s Chuck, The Almighty Johnsons.

The quintet is made up of Thom Powers, Alisa Xayalith, David Beadle, Aaron Short, and Jesse Wood. Powers and Alisa met at music college in 2008. The duo started writing and playing songs together that would go on to be the life blood of TNAF. Aaron, a high school acquaintance of Thom’s, was also studying at the same college and started doing production for Thom and Alisa as they worked out song ideas. These went on to become TNAF’s first releases, the twin EPs No Light and This Machine.

With their heads in the studio, forming a live band was an afterthought for Thom and Alisa. After a few tries with backing musicians, the couple persuaded Aaron into getting on stage as their electronics overlord. Rounding out the band and the rhythm section was another two of their high school mates, Jesse and David. With the band in place they set out to work furiously throughout 2009 on developing a new live set and dozens of demos. Their experimentation and expansion is what shaped and defines their sound today.

This Tuesday, March 15th the band will invade North America with their debut album Passive Me Aggressive You.

The 13 track album hits you hard from the get go. Opening with the upbeat yet poignant “All of This” and follows suit with a vibrant and bouncy electro-pop (“Punching in a Dream” and “Young Blood”) to distorted guitars and dance beats that is reminiscent of Sleigh Bells (“A Wolf In Geeks Clothing”). TNAF’s music varies from track to track but overall it holds true to some some kickin’ dance beats and all the while being an intensely profound and thoughtful record.

Stand out tracks: “Punching in A Dream,” “Frayed,” “Young Blood,” and “Girls Like You”

ESBmusic caught up with the Aucklanders to talk about how they got their name, who they would love to collaborate with, and what they are up to for the next couple months:

ESBM: How did you come up with your band name? What is the meaning of Naked and Famous?
TNAF: Naked And Famous is a lyric from the Tricky song Tricky Kid. It’s a bit of a jab at celebrity culture and all the things we are not about.

ESBM: Who are your influences?
TNAF: We’re all huge fans of Nine Inch Nails, Radiohead, Massive Attack, M83, Chemical Brothers, Holy Fuck, Crystal Castles and all grew up on 90′s alternative music. Some of my personal favorites are Foals, Meshuggah, Boards Of Canada, Deftones and Grizzly Bear to name a few.

ESBM: You were the first New Zealand band to debut a #1 single in 3 yrs. Why do you think that is?
TNAF: When we got the phone call from our manager we really had no idea what it meant. We were only familiar with college radio charts and the national chart was foreign to us. It took a while before it sunk in but it gained us a lot of attention which in turn got our music out to more people which is amazing

ESBM: Your first studio album was released in September of 2010. What did you do before this?
TNAF: We all lived at our parents houses in middle class suburbia and spent too much time on our computers.

ESBM: You played Big Day Out Festival, how was it?
TNAF: I’ve been to plenty of Big Day Outs in the past so to do the whole tour was incredible. It’s referred to as the Big Day Off by a bunch of artists but we had plenty of side shows which meant we only had one day off over the two and a half weeks. We had such a positive reaction and had massive crowds for an early slot which was a pleasantry.

ESBM: Any festivals in the summer?
TNAF: So far we have a couple in Germany, Ireland and we’re playing at Fuji Rock Festival in Japan which is going to be a highlight of the year. I’m going to eat enough sushi to hibernate for a month like a bear.

ESBM: What band would you love to play with?
TNAF: I saw Crystal Castles a few times at Big Day Out, I got over stimulated each time so I might need nappies if we played a show with them.

ESBM: What music fest/venue would you love to play?
TNAF: Fuji Rock Festival, Coachella, Glastonbury, Lollapalooza. We already did Big Day Out.

ESBM: What are your plans for the next couple months?
TNAF: Right now I’m sitting in a venue called Digital on Brighton Beach looking out over the freezing ocean, Paris will be the next and last stop on our first UK/European tour. We fly to Texas shortly for a mechanical bull competition and we might play 1 or 8 shows at SXSW while we’re there. After that it’s back to Europe then back to the US then back to Europe then back to the US etc.

For more information on The Naked and Famous check out their official website, MySpace, and Facebook pages. Be sure to pick up their debut album Passive Me Aggressive You when it drops on March 15th and check out their other music now on Itunes See the band live this week at SXSW this week and when they tour alongside British Band Foals and Brooklyn’s Freelance Whales starting April 10th in Vancouver, Canada BC (see dates below)

The Naked and Famous On Tour:
SUN 4/10 VANCOUVER BC Commodore Ballroom
MON 4/11 SEATTLE, WA Showbox
TUE 4/12 PORTLAND, OR Wonder Ballroom
THU 4/14 SAN FRANCISCO, CA Great American Music Hall
FRI 4/15 SAN DIEGO, CA House of Blues
TUE 4/19 HOUSTON TX Fitzgeralds
WED 4/20 DALLAS, TX Granada
THU 4/21 AUSTIN, TX La Zona Rosa
FRI 4/22 KANSAS CITY, MO Beaumont
SAT 4/23 ST. LOUIS, MO Firebird
TUE 4/26 CHICAGO, IL Metro
WED 4/27 COLUMBUS, OH Outland
FRI 4/29 CLEVELAND, OH Beachland
SAT 4/30 TORONTO, ON Pheonix
SUN 5/1 MONTREAL, PQ National
MON 5/2 BOSTON, MA Paradise
WED 5/4 NEW YORK, NY Webster Hall
THU 5/5 PHILADELPHIA, PA Theatre of Living Arts
FRI 5/6 WASHINGTON, DC 930 Club
SAT 5/7 BALTIMORE, MD Ottobar
SUN 5/8P PROVIDENCE, RI The Met

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Artist of the Month: U.S. Royalty

February 1, 2011 By 1 Comment


This month’s featured artist is U.S. Royalty. The band, based out of Washington, DC,  has been compared to Local Natives, The Black Keys,  Fleet Foxes, Band of Horses, and early Kings of Leon.  Members John Thornley (Vocals), Paul Thornley (Guitar), Jacob Michael (Bass), and Luke Adams (Drums) released their debut album, MIRRORS last week and over the past few months have been featured in Esquire, SPIN, The New York Times, and The Washington Post.

The DC quartet packs a punch with their debut MIRRORS. This is an album you’ll want to listen to over and over. You will experience a western flow of bluesy rock that takes you on musical journey spanning their travels across the country. The quartet produces magnificent harmonies bolstering a unique and infectious rock that will have you hooked instantaneously.

ESBMusic sat down with John and Paul Thornley  to talk about their musical influences, what shaped the sound of the album, and what it’s like being brothers in a band:

ESBM: : How did you guys come together?
J&PT:: John and I had some really rough song ideas and we met in an abandoned trailer our friend Jon DePompa owned out in the woods to rehearse them. We invited Luke and Jake to come jam and ended up meeting all winter long around a single heater playing the blues. When things began to thaw, we took the songs on the road to see what would happen.

ESBM:: Who would you cite as some of your influences?
J&PT:: It’s a range of things. We like to cherry pick sounds and ideas and incorporate them into our songwriting. I think for this album we focused on what was more of our early/intitial influences like blues and folk and added our own take on it. We don’t really find a certain sound then write everything in that vein. Each song has a life of it’s own and we try to write enough songs to where we feel we can edit them down to a cohesive album. Some influences for this album range from Ennio Morricone, to Fleetwood Mac, to Mark Kozelek. All have an influence at different points in the album.

ESBM:: How did you come up with your band name?
J&PT:: Well we kinda booked a gig before we had a band name. The club said they needed a name and Jake just threw out U.S. Royalty to the booker at the last sec. and since then it just stuck.

ESBM: Does this debut album differ or similar to your EP?
J&PT: Definitely different. The EP was to mainly book shows and our first forays into song writing. I think this album is better representation of our sound. We hope to continue to build on this first album release in the years to come.

ESBM: : It was said by John Thrornley, “With this record we wanted to present a body of work, a complete thought,” what would you say is the theme of the album?
J&PT: : I would say traveling is the main theme. We wanted it to ebb and flow, pick up and pull back throughout the duration. Just like any trip you take, it has it’s high points full of energy and it’s moments of reflection and we wanted our album to accompany that experience. There are a lot of nature references because that’s all we tend see most of the time, besides the dingy clubs we play night after night.

ESBM:: What is your favorite part of performing live? What was one of the best places you have played?
J&PT: : The energy is very palpable live. Seeing how the crowd reacts to the music can be a rewarding experience compared to us sitting in the studio a few months before, arguing over what mix is the best. Usually the most fun places to play have been outside the typical club circuit. For instance, last minute house parties, hotels in South Beach Miami, to an historic mansion that was built by a Supreme Court Justice in the late 1800′s

ESBM: : What bands are you listening to right now?
J&PT: : Birdlips, Stevie Nicks, The War on Drugs, Lightning Hopkins, Evenings, The Highwaymen (Nelson, Jennings, Cash, Kristofferson)

ESBM: : “Equestrian” was the first single off your debut album, how did that come about?
J&PT: : John woke up on the couch at our studio one morning with the oooh part stuck in his head and he recorded it with the acoustic part and drums accompanying it. He kinda sat on it for a while, thinking it was just a random idea, but when the rest of us heard it we couldn’t get it out of our heads so we started diving into what it could become.

ESBM: Through the writing and recording process you had wrote new songs to replace other songs. Do you think you guys will use those songs on another album?
J&PT: : Maybe a 1 or 2 of them but we have a lot of new material since we finished MIRRORS that we are excited to work on. We would rather keep moving forward.

ESBM: : For John and Paul, you guys being brothers working together and on the road together, is it ever too much togetherness?
J&PT: : We all have our moments of needing some fresh air but it’s nothing that a good show can’t cure.

ESBM:: A lot of your debut album MIRRORS had been written on the road, were there any places that heavily influenced the music?
J&PT: : DC and New York since we spent a lot of time in both places. Also Austin, New Orleans, Miami and Kentucky. The influences range from certain experiences we may have had there to a passing feeling as we skirted through town. My brother and I were on a family trip when we were younger out in the west (Montana, Wyoming) so I think there were some nostalgic feelings coming through as we were writing the music.

ESBM:: You guys will be featured in the Swedish designer Gant Rugger’s upcoming 2011 Spring Collection. How did you guys get connected to the fashion world? Do you get awesome perks from this type of thing?
J&PT: Before we were working on the album we traveled all the time playing gigs, especially in New York City. Over time there came opportunities for us to work with the people that were constantly coming out to our shows which among those people were people from Gant. The biggest perk is getting an opportunity to work with such creative people in the design world and taking that inspiration to tackle our own creative goals.

ESBM: : What is next for US Royalty?
J&PT: : Gigs, recording and finishing new songs. We have a lot of new material we want to work on but we want to travel and support this record that we finished. So I’m sure it will be a balance of the two. There will be some remixes coming out too that we are really excited about. It’s great to hear the songs re-interpreted by other people.

For more information on U.S. Royalty official website, MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter pages. Get their debut album Mirrors now on iTunes!

U.S. Royalty will be performing at Mercury Lounge on Tuesday, February 22, 2011.

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Artist of the Month: Those Mockingbirds

January 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment

This month’s featured Artist is Those Mockingbirds, hailing from Montclair, NJ. Those Mockingbirds are made up of Adam Bird (vocals, guitar), Tory Daines (vocals, violin, piano), Rob Fitzgerald (bass), Dan Kreiner (guitar) and Kevin Walters (drums).
The quintet released their debut EP – No Symmetry in late Spring 2010. They have been promoting this latest release by touring, releasing a music video for the single “Honest? Honest”, and a unique promotional campaign featuring the Numa Numa Guy ( www.savenuma.com ). The band started working on their new record in the Fall of 2010 and in between writing and recording sessions they released “The Chain”, a studio cover of a Fleetwood Mac song they have been performing on tour.

Eat Sleep Breathe Music had the opportunity to interview Adam Bird (vocals, guitar) and Tory Daines (vocals, violin, piano). We found out how they came together, why they are called Those Mockingbirds, and what are some of their favorite NJ venues to play.

ESBM: You’re a relatively new band, can you tell us when and how you came together?
TD: Those Mockingbirds started over a year ago with almost an entirely different lineup than we have now. At our first show we played with The Matches, we recorded an EP, went on tour, and kidnapped the Numa Numa guy. We’re now joined by Rob, Kevin, and Dan and we couldn’t be happier playing together! It is because of them that you will notice so many changes sonically on “The Chain,” on the next release, and live.

ESBM: How did you pick the name Those Mockingbirds?
TD: Adam has a fear of mockingbirds. When we’re in NYC he often confuses pigeons for mockingbirds, and when he sees one it upsets him very much so he says “Ohhhh those mockingbirds!!” and runs.
AB: She wasn’t supposed to tell you that, but its true.

ESBM: You have your own management label and signed a distribution deal with Sidecho, how was this direction decided upon?
TD: We felt that the old business model was out of date and made our own plan. Sidecho was really on the same page as us and felt that working together would be great, so we did.

ESBM: Tell us about the cover you did of Fleetwood Mac’s “The Chain”, what made you want to cover this song?
AB: I grew up listening to ‘Rumors’ in the way other kids listen to Raffi. Its my moms favorite album of all time, and I knew those songs like the back of my hand by the time i was 10. So, I kinda always wanted to try a song from that album, and had suggested it in all the bands i had ever played in, finally, my band mates agreed. So, Tory and I worked out a version of “The Chain” and considered another song or two from the record, but “The Chain” really spoke to us and we felt we were doing a pretty good job with it, and here we are.

ESBM: You recently released a video for “We Are The Antidote” off your No Symmetry EP, that was created by one of your fans. Can you tell us about it?
AB: A guy named Colin told us he had made a video for the song, and asked if we wanted to see it. We said “sure why not?” and we ended up kinda surprised by how well he matched up the clips with the lyrics and themes in the song. We asked him to make a few small changes, and we gave him some footage of us performing the song, which no one had seen before, and it was ready to go!

ESBM: Being a band from NJ what is your favorite NJ venue to perform?
TD: My favorite is Maxwell’s in Hoboken because they give us a gourmet dinner and the show is usually packed. The bands favorite is The Meatlocker in Montclair, because it’s our homebase. If you haven’t been to The Meatlocker before, it is just that, an old meatlocker stuffed with old car seats, broken pianos, and a stage!
AB: I agree with both of those answers but would like to chime in that i think Tory may be slightly overzealous by calling that a stage…

ESBM: You are currently working on new material, when can we expect to hear some new tracks?
TD: When you come to a show! We are currently playing new material, you can see our upcoming shows at www.facebook.com/ThoseMockingbirds We do hope to make it into the studio again soon, we certainly have enough material to fill one album and then some.
AB: We are shy about giving exact dates but recorded stuff should be coming soon.

For more on Those Mockingbirds visit their official website or check them out on Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter. Check out the  No Symmetry – EP on iTunes.

Upcoming Performances:

1/10/11 – Angels & Kings (acoustic) – New York, NY
1/15/11 – Court Tavern – New Brunswick, NJ
1/21/11 – New Visions Art Studio – Taylor, PA
1/22/11 – The Meatlocker – Montclair, NJ

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Artist of the Month: Fake Problems

December 6, 2010 By Leave a Comment


With their bright and lovable, Phil Spectoresque 60’s inspired rock; Fake Problems is one band that should be on your radar. The Naples, Florida foursome made up of Chris Farren (vocals/guitar), Derek Perry (bass), Sean Stevenson (drums) and Casey Lee (guitar) has been making music together since 2005.

To date the band has released several EP’s along with two critically acclaimed full-lengths, How Far Our Bodies Go (2007) and It’s Great to Be Alive (2009). With their relentless touring ethic it’s no wonder they have gained a legion of fans around the globe. In 2006 they performed in 150 concerts in a tour of North America. They have shared the stage with Against Me!, The Gaslight Anthem, Riverboat Gamblers, Smoke or Fire, Look Mexico, Lemuria, Anti-Flag, O Pioneers!!!, Street Dogs, Frank Turner, The Briggs, Nothington, Baby Calendar, Murder By Death, The Builders and the Butchers, and The Hold Steady.

This past September, the group released their third album, Real Ghosts Caught On Tape on SideOneDummy Records. A departure from the large orchestration on 2009’s It’s Great To Be Alive, it features the band striped down to the bare musical elements; vocals, guitars, drums and bass.

Their minimal musical instrumentation and slick production has made for an outstanding recording. Ghosts Caught On Tape is an album that you will love from start to finish. Right from the get go, it delivers first rate rock at its finest. The opening track “ADT” grabs your attention with it’s pairing of upbeat toe tapping. pop melodies and emotionally expressive lyrics. As it moves along, you become more engrossed with the excitable raspy and hazy vocals on the soul influenced “5678.” There is an influx of 60′s pop and  poignant lyrics in songs like “Songs For Teenagers”  and “RSVP” that creates a crafty and exciting sound. I just can’t get enough of the music on this album.

Stand out tracks: “ADT,” “Songs for Teenagers,” “Soulless” and “Done with Fun”

ESBMusic caught up with lead singer Chris Farren of Fake Problems to talk about their new album, their experiences touring, and how they keep in touch with their fans:

ESBM: Fake Problems started as a solo project and then merged into a full band, how did that come about?

CF: Actually it wasn’t ever really a solo project. Since the beginning, the songs I was writing for Fake Problems were always intended as full band songs – I just didn’t have a band at the time. I never played any shows alone and as soon as I could get a band together, I did. I’d much prefer to collaborate with my friends than compose full songs alone.

ESBM: This summer you guys played Warped Tour, how was that experience? Did you guys find an increase in your fan base?

CF: It was ok. I’m not sure Warped Tour is the right scene for Fake Problems – I often felt like we didn’t really fit in or belong with the rest of the roster of bands. We did get along famously with some bands though – previous friends Polar Bear Club, Swellers, The Flatliners, Riverboat Gamblers and made some new ones, Never Shout Never and Anarbor, most notably.

ESBM: You just played CMJ in October, was that your first time playing the festival? How did you like it?

CF: We’ve played CMJ a few times over the past few years but this one was definitely the best. It was FANTASTIC honestly. We played ten shows in four days, got a ridiculous amount of free stuff and had a great time. We also got to hang out with Surfer Blood, who are fellow Floridians and an amazing band.

ESBM: Some of your music features a lot of different types of instruments from violins to brass instruments, do you incorporate those into the live show? How does it translate?

CF: Our latest record actually has nothing extra on it – just drums, guitars, bass and vocals. We’ve had other elements on our previous records but this one we wanted to really strip down and do everything ourselves; make moving arrangements without overdoing it or having to add more layers. I think we were successful.

ESBM: The “highlights and lowlights” videos are fun and entertaining. Who came up with the game of Mr Yucky?

CF: Derek came up with the game, Sean came up with the name. It’s pretty disgusting, but it keeps us on our toes.

ESBM: You have put out a lot of albums and EP’s what would you say is your favorite album? Who are your influences?

CF: Our newest record, Real Ghosts Caught On Tape, is by far the best album we’ve made. We got a lot of flack from a lot of people for going for the sound we wanted to achieve, and in the process we started to second guess our instincts. I’m really glad we stuck to our guns and made the record with the songs and vibe we wanted. It gave us a whole new confidence as a band and as songwriters.

ESBM: You recently played Radio City Music Hall when you opened for Gaslight Anthem. What was that experience like?

CF: It was amazing! The crew at Radio City were very nice. It was crazy when we walked in and first stood on the stage – it’s freaking massive in that building.

ESBM: You have a pretty extensive touring history, what was your favorite tour?

CF: It’s hard to say – we’ve had a great time on so many tours over the years. Murder By Death, Against Me, Frank Turner, Gaslight Anthem – were all great to us, just to name a few.

ESBM: Your official website has an incentive to “Facebook” for a free song. Are you guys into the social networking thing, Are you really into tweeting and Facebook? Do you find that you have Have you found that social networking opens up a new fan base?

CF: I’m not sure if it opens up a new fanbase, but it is the ultimate way to keep in touch with the fans we do have. I’m able to, on a daily basis, talk to our fans on a personal level. I love that.

ESBM: When listening to Real Ghosts Caught on Tape, it sometimes sounds as if it could have been punk rock if it was produced by Phil Spector in the 60′s. Was that bright, jangly wall-of-sound a conscious influence?

CF: Phil Spector was my number one influence in writing the record – I wanted to write a classic-sounding pop record with hints of that production style.

ESBM: What is next in store for Fake Problems?

CF: Touring! And lots of it. We’re already stacking our 2011 with a lot of really cool things – we’re kicking the year off with a tour with RX Bandits & Native – then Murder By Death – then SXSW. Not sure what else yet, but we’re keeping our options open and planning a full scale headline tour sometime before summer.

For more information on Fake Problems check out their official website, MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter pages. Get Real Ghosts Caught On Tape now on iTunes!

Filed Under: Artist Of The Month Tagged With: ,

Artist of the Month: Sky Ferreira

November 1, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Sky Ferreira, her obsession is your desire. At 18 the sultry, pop songstress is making a name for herself.

At the young age of 14, she began professionally singing and acting. Gaining popularity on MySpace catapulted her singing career to another level.  To date she has appeared in French synth-pop artist Uffie’s video for “Pop the Glock,” as well as a principal role in Matt Porterfield’s upcoming indie drama Putty Hill, which has screened at film festivals around the world. Additionally, her music has been featured on the hit show Vampire Diaries.

Ferreira has been in London and Sweden working on her as-yet-untitled debut album which will drop in the U.S. in 2011 on Capitol Records. She has been working with a host of A-list songwriters and producers, including Swedish hitmakers Bloodshy & Avant (whom Ferreira hooked up with after reaching out to them on MySpace when she was 15), Greg Kurstin, Linda Perry, Ryan Tedder, Dallas Austin, Paul Epworth, Teddybears, and Frankmusik.

Citing an array of influences such as including image-conscious chameleons Madonna, David Bowie, and Britney Spears, French pop sophisticates Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot, as well as raucous all-female groups like the Spice Girls and the Runaways the album is set to be a collection of illustrious synth beat dance, pop gems.

Sky Ferreira creates music that is filled with feel good, hyper electronica pop melodies on her singles “One,” “Obsession,” and “17″

Lyrically she boasts about the perils of being young and growing up too fast. Sky Ferreira has a polished glittery dance sound that you will be rocking out to.

ESBMusic caught up with Sky Ferreira and learned about her musical influences and her “obesssion” with vampires.

ESBM: How did you get into acting and singing? How old were you?
SF: I started doing both professionally at 14.

ESBM: If you weren’t acting or singing, what would you be doing?
SF: To be honest, I never had enough time to make a back-up plan!

ESBM: How long were you performing before your were signed?
SF: I’ve been performing for as long as I can remember.

ESBM: Has your career changed since being on a label?
SF: It’s definitely a lot more busy now.

ESBM: The song “17″ is about a young girl who is secretly a wild party girl. Does this reflect you at 17?
SF: Not really. I was actually going out at 15 but nothing too crazy. I was just going out.

ESBM: You say that Iggy Pop and Kyle Minogue are your obsessions, who else are your musical influences?
SF: Nelson Riddle, Diana Ross’s “Mahogany” theme song.

ESBM: Since you are Portuguese, do you bring any of that culture into your music?
SF: Not right now, but maybe in the future?

ESBM: Your song “One” was the first European Single and “Obsession” was the 1st US Single, why did you choose different songs to be released in those regions at those times?
SF: Their radio is a little different so the singles are geared towards each continent.

ESBM: Your debut album is set to release next year. What can we expect of the album?
SF: A lot of dance songs, 108 year olds, anger, numbers.

ESBM: Your single “Obsession” was featured on Vampire Diaries. How did that come about?
SF: They asked, and I said yes.

ESBM: Are you a fan of the show?
SF: Yes!

ESBM: Do you like all the vampire stuff?
SF: I love Robert Pattinson.

ESBM: Has being on the widely popular drama affected your fan base at all?
SF: It’s definitely brought more attention to “Obsession”. I’m grateful for that.

ESBM: Actor Michael Madsen acts as the object of your super-fan obsession in the video “Obsession.” How was he chosen as the subject? Are you a fan of his?
SF: I’m a fan of his and I’m a fan of Reservoir Dogs, and I’m a very big fan of Quentin Tarantino.

ESBM: In your music video “Obsession” you cut off that girls hair for revenge, what is an ultimate revenge for someone who’s wronged you?
SF: It depends on the person…

ESBM: Will you be going on tour to support this album? If so, what places are you most looking forward to playing?
SF: I’m excited to play everywhere but Tokyo is somewhere I really want to go to.

ESBM:What are your plans for the future?
SF: To make more records and keep doing what I do.

ESBM: Thanks for partaking in the interview!
SF: Thanks so much!

How did you get into acting and singing? How old were you?
I started doing both professionally at 14.

If you weren’t acting or singing, what would you be doing?
To be honest, I never had enough time to make a back-up plan!

How long were you performing before your were signed?
I’ve been performing for as long as I can remember.

Has your career changed since being on a label?
It’s definitely a lot more busy now.

The song “17″ is about a young girl who is secretly a wild party girl. Does this reflect you at 17?
Not really. I was actually going out at 15 but nothing too crazy. I was just going out.

You say that Iggy Pop and Kyle Minogue are your obsessions, who else are your musical influences?
Nelson Riddle, Diana Ross’s “Mahogany” theme song.

Since you are Portuguese, do you bring any of that culture into your music?
Not right now, but maybe in the future?

Your song “One” was the first European Single and “obsession” was the 1st US Single, why did you choose different songs to be released in those regions at those times?
Their radio is a little different so the singles are geared towards each continent.

Your debut album is set to release next year. What can we expect of the album?
A lot of dance songs, 108 year olds, anger, numbers.

Your single “obsession” was featured on Vampire Diaries. How did that come about?
They asked, and I said yes.

Are you a fan of the show?
Yes!

Do you like all the vampire stuff?
I love Robert Pattinson.

Has being on the widely popular drama affected your fan base at all?
It’s definitely brought more attention to “Obsession”. I’m grateful for that.

Actor Michael Madsen acts as the object of your super-fan obsession in the video “Obsession.” How was he chosen as the subject? Are you a fan of his?
I’m a fan of his and I’m a fan of Reservoir Dogs, and I’m a very big fan of Quentin Tarantino.

In your music video “obsession” you cut off that girls hair for revenge, what is an ultimate revenge for someone who’s wronged you?
It depends on the person…

Will you be going on tour to support this album? If so, what places are you most looking forward to playing?
I’m excited to play everywhere but Tokyo is somewhere I really want to go to.

What are your plans for the future?
To make more records and keep doing what I do.

Thanks for partaking in the interview!
Thanks so much!

Obsession – Single – Sky Ferreira is available on iTunes now.

Filed Under: Artist Of The Month Tagged With: , ,

Artist of the Month: Val Emmich

October 4, 2010 By Leave a Comment

 

PHOTO BY BART SCHOUDEL

I remember when I first heard of Val Emmich. It was 2003 and I was a junior at Rutgers. My friend Lauren asked me if I wanted to go see a show in the city featuring this guy who was brothers with her boyfriend’s roommate. I hadn’t heard any of his music, but being the music adventurer I am, I decided to check out the show. I was blown away by the performance of this singer/song writer and was soon hooked on his album Slow Down Kid that we got with the ticket purchase.

While he may be more recognized for his acting stints on TV shows “Ugly Betty” and “30 Rock,” Val Emmich has a notable and an unparalleled musical talent that should truly be recognized. The combination of his charismatic and salacious deep vocals along with poignant, expressive lyrics is a magnetism that will strike a chord with your emotions.

The NJ native emerged on the scene in the late nineties while a student at Rutgers University where he fronted the band Ben Trovato known as Matt Emmich. After a few years he parted ways with the band and became a solo artist using his birth name, Val. Playing shows around Asbury Park, Hoboken, Jersey City, and NYC he has become a fixture of the NY/NJ music scene.

This past September, Emmich released his latest album Looking For A Feeling You Never Knew You Needed as a digital release. The idea for the album came together after meeting Ron Haney and Bart Schoudel of The Churchills at their Long Branch NJ home and basement studio where they were producing Rick Barry’s album on which Emmich was singing back up vocals.

Each song delivers something different while still maintaining an effortless flow from one track to the next. Whether it is the delightful, catchy pop rhythms and guitar licks on songs like “Don’t Wanna Go” or the inclusion of piano melodies on “Come Clean” and “E.S.T,” Val Emmich has created a new sound all the while maintaining his musical originality. From beginning to end, this album fails to disappoint.

Eat Sleep Breathe Music writer, Alison caught up with Val Emmich to find out more about his new album, how he interactes with his fans, and acting.

ESBM: Tell us about the inspiration for your new album, Looking For A Feeling You Never Knew You Needed.

VE: The making of every album is a learning experience and this was no different. After my last album, Little Daggers, I felt disillusioned with music for the second time in my life. By teaming up with some new people, I was once again reminded that music provides me with something I haven’t been able to find anywhere else in my life. For me, the album and title has to do with pushing your limits. Searching for answers. Searching for comfort, happiness, all the big things people want out of life. And musically, it was about experimentation and trying out a new process. It was very rewarding and fun and I think it shows somehow in the music.

ESBM: This album is only available as a digital release, can you tell us why?

VE: I don’t have a label paying for physical packaging so it made monetary sense to just make it available as a digital release. It pains me as an old-fashioned music fan, but the reality is that’s how most people consume music nowadays. Perhaps in the coming months it will be released on CD or vinyl as well. I have already designed the packaging so I hope I get a chance to use it.

ESBM: You have many talents: musician, actor, writer; is there one you prefer more than the others?

VE: All of them help me cope with life. Some spiritually and some in a more practical way. I like having all of them in my life. There are things I like about each. If I ever became hugely successful with one thing, perhaps that would take the lead in my life. But until I’m forced to choose between them, I don’t wish to.

ESBM: Your very creative and interactive with your fans on your website and we loved your podcasts with your sister and manager, what gave you the idea to start podcasting?

VE: Boredom. Restlessness. Trying to figure out why I can’t seem to reach a larger audience. “Perhaps I need to let people into my life more?” That was the thought process. Who knows if it’s working. I don’t know how long it will last. But it has been fun. And that counts for something.

ESBM: You were the first unsigned artist ever to appear on MTV’s Total Request Live, that is pretty amazing – can you tell us a little about how that opportunity happened?

VE: In 2003, I had released my first full length album, Slow Down Kid, and had already shot a music video for the first single, “Shock.” MTV liked the video and selected me to appear on their show Advanced Warning in which they showcased up-and-coming artists. They shot the interview for that show at the video shoot for the album’s second single, “Privacy Attracts A Crowd.” So they were already sort of invested in the video through mere association. From there it was just a matter of them saying, “Hey, I think this kid could work on TRL too.” They liked the video, so they aired it on TRL as part of a segment they were running called Pre-RL, in which they highlighted artists that weren’t on their fan-requested charts yet but might be in the future.

ESBM: The music industry has changed so much, do you have any advice for the struggling unsigned artists?

VE: Oh man. I wish. I really do. I have no idea what I’m doing. I don’t think anyone does. It’s such a strange time where success stories are few and far between and they don’t seem to follow a pattern. I really just try to focus on the art. It’s the only thing you can control so you better make it as good as it can possibly be.

ESBM: Who are some of your favorite artists right now (signed/unsigned/indie)?

VE: Recently I like The National, Sleigh Bells, Vampire Weekend, Wavves, Maps & Atlases, Good Old War and Arcade Fire‘s latest. As far as unsigned artists, I love Rick Barry and Allie Moss; Allie sang a duet with me on my new album. The song is called “Convince Me.”

ESBM: Did you find you got more exposure from your TV appearances on shows like “Ugly Betty” and “30 Rock”?

VE: Of course. TV is more powerful than any other medium. More powerful than film and music and books. It brings you right into people’s homes and it’s the last truly communal experience where millions of people can train their eyes on the exact same thing at the exact same time (DVR excluded). I get noticed more for those shows than for anything else I’ve done and it’s certainly made more people aware of my music. For that I am thankful.

ESBM: You recently filmed a Macys’ holiday commercial featuring P Diddy, Jennifer Lopez, Donald Trump, Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, Tommy Hilfiger & Rachel Roy, did you meet any of them?

VE: Yes, I met and worked with every single one of them. Jennifer Lopez was my favorite. A sweet and genuine person, which was surprising to me for some reason. The others, not so much.

ESBM: Your songs “If They Come Again” and “Just To Feel Alive Again” appeared on two episodes of the Jersey Shore this season. How do you feel about that?

VE: It’s great exposure. Some of my friends seem more excited about my songs appearing on Jersey Shore than anything else I’ve done. I guess I’m out of the loop.

ESBM: Do you watch the Jersey Shore? I understand “The Situation” is from your hometown of Manalapan, NJ did you go to school with him?

VE: No, I don’t watch the show. That’s not because I’m above it. I’m a fan of mindless junk TV, as much as I hate myself for it. Yes, I did go to school with “The Situation” and his older brother. I don’t recall interacting with either of them. But that’s not saying much. I don’t remember much about high school.

Catch Val Emmich this week at The Studio @ Webster Hall for his record release show Thursday, October 7th. For more information check out his official website and get his album Looking For A Feeling You Never Knew You Needed now on iTunes!

Filed Under: Artist Of The Month, NJ Artists Tagged With: , , , ,

Artist of the Month: Red Wanting Blue

September 9, 2010 By 2 Comments


Patriotic like the American flag, this quintet from Ohio has been around the rock scene for over a decade. Without a record label at that (why that is, I’m not entirely clear), Red Wanting Blue is bullet proof that one should follow their dreams and passions. Their latest of the 8 full-length albums, These Magnificent Miles, is the most recognized.

Scott Terry has that raspy rock voice that is super sexy at the very moment – although typical, it will sweep you off your feet ladies. Such as in “You Are My Las Vegas,” an up-tempo happy melody that conjures up romance upon listening.

“The Air I Breathe” and “Probably Nothing” are another couple of my favorites. This is one of the rare bands that I actually enjoy both acoustically and vocally. It’s certainly one of the bands I have no doubt will put on a fantastic live show. I can almost imagine the performance at your local park stage, accompanied by a gorgeous sunset and a refreshing breeze.

Red Wanting Blue recently (finally) signed a contract with Fanatic Records, when These Magnificent Miles was re-released this past July. As they embark a new beginning of their career, let’s hope they will remain true to their rock ‘n roll ingenious.

Eat Sleep Breathe Music recently checked in with lead singer, Scott Terry to find out what’s in a name, how their music has evolved since their first album, and what it’s like having camera crews follow them around.

ESBM: Where did the name Red Wanting Blue come from?

ST: It came from the wreckage of some of my earliest writing. In it’s context, the line read “…and far too often we’ve been finding ourselves riding red, wanting blue.” You know, it hits very close to the expression “ the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence” for me. And I liked the use of primary colors. They are so simple and yet, so potent. I love the idea of something struggling to be what it was never designed to be, but never stopping itself from trying. Some may say it is a flaw in the human condition, but I think it’s beautiful. If we were characters of Greek mythology, we’d be Sisyphus pushing the stone up the hill, only to have it roll back down again. It’s a lot like being in a struggling rock band.

ESBM: Who are your influences?

ST: Now this is a question that is never easy to answer. And, I’ll say right off the bat, that I may only answer for myself. It wouldn’t be fair to give answers for the other members (not to mention, it wouldn’t be accurate!). For starters, everything. There is so much amazing stuff out there to influence and inspire it blows my mind. And not just music, you know? I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again that I owe SO MUCH of my influence to coffee and cigarettes. The songs wouldn’t have come without ‘em. Or my better half or my family. HUGE influence! Memories of listening to my parents old vinyl. Music from Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles, The Band, you-name-it, etc. and so on. It’s true I love those artists along with thousands of others, but those types of answers always sound stock and like bullshit. The truth is you have to be wide open all of the time to take whatever is out there whenever it comes, whether that be film, art, song, food, drink, smoke, whatever. I’m sorry if I went off on a tangent. I hope that makes sense.

ESBM: What is your writing process?

ST: Our writing process changes quite a bit. There’s no standard we keep for songwriting and/or inspiration. I do have the stranglehold on the lyrics, however. I feel the story should come from the person who is to sing it. At least, at first. There’s a desperation in performing something that is about your life. You can’t detach yourself from it. And that emotional connection will come across in the song’s creation, and in it’s performance. But as far as a song’s musicality and arrangement, it could come from anyone or anywhere…just as long as they are under the Red Wanting Blue umbrella.

ESBM: With eight albums to date, how has your music evolved since your first release?

ST: Oh, God. Leaps and bounds. When we started, it’s like we were role-playing being in a band. We didn’t know what to do, but we knew it’s all we wanted to do. And the songs reflected our musical youthfulness, and then adolescence. I look back on those albums fondly like you would a high school yearbook. So much has changed. It’s great to see how far we’ve come.

ESBM: You guys are working on a documentary of your life on the road what has that experience been like?

ST: Surprisingly, not too different from our normal lives. We were worried that it’d become too intrusive for the band, but it was made clear that the film crew were to be like flies on the walls… which they were. Most of the time we just felt bad for them, because they couldn’t hang with our late schedule, all of the driving, or sleeping in the bus!
I’m actually going to see a rough cut of it next week, so I’m half excited, and half nervous. Whenever I see myself on film it wierds me out.

ESBM: I read online you guys are going to be doing a music video, where will it be filmed and what will be the premise?

ST: Ah, yes. We are filming a video for “ Where You Wanna Go.” We filmed it all over the place. New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Ohio, and Maryland. The premise is pretty clever, actually. It ties in the song’s lyrical story, and incorporates it with our band and bus. All the while, weaving in and out of reality and a parallel dimension. Bizarre, but a lot of fun. I hope it turns out awesome. We’re keeping our fingers crossed.

ESBM: You are going to be headlining the 2nd Annual “Rock United,” a concert to launch the 2010-2011 United Way of Greater Cleveland Campaign. in Cleveland in September. How did you get involved with the charity?

ST: We got involved with the UNITED WAY charity when one of our fans (who is also involved with the UW) brought it to our attention. We get to help the charity by raising awareness with our fans, and (at the same time) we get to play for a whole new audience. It’s a win-win situation for all involved. What I’d like to call a “feel good” show.

ESBM: You guys opened for Gavin Degraw and Michelle Branch earlier this year, what that was like?

ST: The truth…it was short. We wound up playing an acoustic set that got cut to just over 20 minutes. And that same day, one of our front wheel bearings seized and caused a whole shit storm of problems for us. So after great turmoil and anguish, we persevered to get to the show to play for 20 minutes. And I still will say it was totally worth it. Both artists were great. Gavin I got to meet, and he was great. There wasn’t any time for me to meet Michelle, but I was told she was very kind, and I thought she performed really well. I’d do it again, for sure. We got a lot of exposure from that show.

ESBM: If you could play with one person living or dead who would it be?

ST: Yikes. Super tough. I think (judging by the way I feel right now at this moment) it’d have to be performing “It Makes No Difference” with The Band in “The Last Waltz”. Either that or performing “America” with Simon & Garfunkel in their concert in Central Park. Both moments would melt my face right off.

ESBM: When will you be working on a new album?

ST: Hopefully, by this winter. We’ve been dying to get into record a new album. We just need to get a break from touring. Yeah, that’s our hope…by winter.

ESBM: You guys are from Ohio but you play a lot of sold out shows in NY. Which state has the better crowd? Is it better to play in your hometown or NYC?

ST: Well, as much as I love playing in New York City, I would have to say Ohio brings out the most people for shows. Cleveland would probably be where you’d find the largest number of RWB fans. However, no matter how big or small the venue or crowd, we do our damnedest to put on the best shows we can. And I love playing

ESBM: My favorite song to see you perform live is “The Band.” Is there a favorite that you like to perform?

ST: I have a few (one of them being “The Band”), but I’d probably say if I had to name a favorite… it’d be “Your Alibi.” It’s just so epic, and real for me. It’s really the story of my love life, and it kills me a little every time I sing it. No song asks more of me emotionally, or physically than that song. I like to prove to myself that I can do it.

ESBM: You are on tour until Dec throughout the Midwest, when will come back to NY/NJ?

ST: We will be back in NYC at the Mercury Lounge on Sept. 21 for an early show. (9 pm) And we can’t wait!

ESBM: Any last words?

ST: Only that I appreciate your time, and sorry it took so long to get these answered for you. Typing in the bus gives me a headache, and we’ve been living in our bus too long!!! Thanks so much!

This month on the 21st, Red Wanting Blue will be playing at NYC’s Mercury Lounge. For more information and the latest updates on Red Wanting Blue check out their official website, Facebook, and follow them on Twitter. Pick up your own copy of These Magnificent Miles now on iTunes.

Filed Under: Artist Of The Month Tagged With:

Artist of the Month: Semi Precious Weapons

August 2, 2010 By Leave a Comment


New York City rockers Semi Precious Weapons aren’t so much a band, but more like a movement. Vogue (yea, that Vogue) once called them “unashamedly crass and deliciously animated” and before she took the world by Kermit-covered storm, Lady Gaga opened for them.

They are dirty, sexy, and can rock you from your head to your toe. They are Glam Rock personified, and they know it too.

Weapons isn’t just a band that is all raw talent (which they have in spades); they have a musical knowledge that most garage bands would kill for. The band met while attending the Berklee School of Music where front man Justin Tranter got a degree in songwriting and drummer Dan Crean has one in classical composition. Fellow Berklee graduates Bassist Cole Whittle and guitarist Stevy Pyne round out this musically endowed group.

You can’t mention Semi Precious Weapons without going into detail about their charismatic front man and lead singer Justin Tranter. The man who yelled “we are Semi Precious Weapons from New York Mother-Fucking City, and we hope you ALL GET LAID!” at a recent show (that quote is now in bold at the top of the bands website), danced with supermodel Kate Moss at another show, and who started making and selling jewelry at gigs to help make ends meet and now has his on jewelry line, Fetty, that is sold at Barneys in New York. Add those traits to his rock solid musicianship and with Weapons steady rise and there is little doubt Tranter will go down as one of the greatest front men in rock history.

Semi Precious Weapons has released two albums We Love You in 2008 and this past June they released You Love You. Both albums have spectacular dance tracks along with emotional filled ballads like You Love’s “Rock and Roll Never looked so Beautiful.” You Love You’s finest single is the bands self titled “Semi Precious Weapons” that with one of the greatest opening lines ever: “I can’t pay my rent, but I’m fucking gorgeous” that comes over a rocking guitar riff and a hard hitting drum beat. Tranter’s soaring vocals and the other members extreme talent are present on every track and every track sexy, fun, and begs a repeat listen.

Semi Precious Weapons are currently opening for Lady Gaga on her The Monster Ball Tour paying back the favor from her early days. You Love You was released by Interscope Records and is available on iTunes.

Eat Sleep Breathe Music had the chance to sit down with the band and find out what its like being on a major label, how touring with Lady Gaga on the Monster Ball has been, and what their plans are for the rest of the summer.

ESBM: Has anything changed with being on a major label?

SPW: Being on a major has actually given us a lot more artistic freedom. Ron Fair is our A&R man and he really believes in the filthy raw, but intelligent essence of this band. And having amazing people actually helping spread the SPW word, is magical.

ESBM: You guys have some great lyrics. What is your writing process? Is it a collaborative effort or does one person come up with the music and another with the lyrics?

SPW: Justin writes all the lyrics, and the music is a collaborative effort between all 4 of us. The four of us just get in a room, and wait till a lyric or riff or beat sparks a whole fucking song.

ESBM: You’re known for having some exciting live shows. What have been your favorite places to play? What is the craziest thing that has happened at a show?

SPW: Well in the last year we have played an insane range of shows, from small dirty bars in texas to stadiums in Japan. They are all amazing for different reasons. The craziest thing may be when we were playing a show in NYC and this beautiful girl and guy started having sex in the front row.

ESBM: You guys have been opening for Lady Gaga on her Monster Ball Tour. What is that experience like? How does the crowd react to your performance?

SPW: It’s the best experience we could EVER ask for. Playing arena’s warming up a crowd for one of our best friends. Magic. About 75% of the audience LOVES us, and the rest hate us. Which we love, rock N’ roll should make you love or hate.

ESBM: You had a few club dates you played, are you planning on touring more in support of the upcoming album release?

SPW: We are touring with GaGa for a very long time. But whenever we have a little time off of the Monster Ball, we play club shows. Rock N’ Roll takes hard fucking work and a good slow build. And playing shows is our favorite thing in the world.

ESBM: Justin, you have a jewelry line, Fetty which helped cover the cost to make your record. Do you think you want to extend it to other accessories and clothing lines (in addition to the shoe collection for DKNY)?

SPW: I may lend my tastes to some clothing companies soon, but Fetty will only ever produce jewelry. I don’t want to just start throwing the Fetty name on crap just because I can.

ESBM: I love the video blogs you have been doing while you have been on tour. Do you think you guys would ever want to have a reality show?

SPW: We have actually thought about that. But it would need to be a lot more than a reality show. It would need to be something really creative, like Clockwork Orange meets The Monkeys.

ESBM: I saw Justin for a split second on The New York Housewives at the Perez Hilton party and last year at the Conde Nast Traveler Hot List Party. Are you big on the socialite scene?

SPW: I like places that have free champagne.

ESBM: What are you plans for the rest of the summer?

SPW: To work our asses off on the Monster Ball and bring rock N’ roll back to the mainstream.

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