Angle - White Andy

            The margins of popular music are filled with stylistic misfits; square pegs whose music doesn’t fit nicely into the round holes of convention. Much like the individuals of Huxley’s “Brave New World,” who are unable to function within the boundaries of a tightly controlled society and as a result are banished to remote island communities, talented artists who don’t subscribe to mainstream orthodoxy are often relegated to the musical sidelines.

            This principle might explain why Jarid Catrenich, aka Angle, one of Des Moines’ most unique and longest-standing veteran MCs, remains something of a shadowy figure in the local hip-hop consciousness. Though he has abundant skill and a sizeable, consistent catalog, it seems his style is just quirky enough to run askew of the casual listener’s ear. His latest release provides a fresh opportunity to take a look at his approach and assess its merits.

            On his new EP, Angle assumes the persona of “White Andy” and pays tribute to the spirit of fun and creativity that characterized hip-hop’s Golden Era. That spirit is on display in the Vaudeville-styled cover art that features Angle in top hat, tuxedo, and “reverse blackface,” and its influence is felt in the music as well.

            The opening track, “Blazee,” begins in typical oddball fashion with a cartoonish intro followed by a Spanish announcer introducing “Angleoneous Maximus” and producer Coolzey. The song is breezy and upbeat, and sets the tone for the rest of the album. Next is a great track titled “Hiyah.” This song was the first to appear from “White Andy” when its pirate and Renaissance-themed video was released last spring. Angle’s flow is in good form over the relaxed beat, and he croons the chorus over a layer of female vocals that sing “White Andy.”

            The program takes a slight turn with “Abysses.” Coolzey lays drowsy strings over an interesting snare drum pattern, and Angle leads us down a hall of scary movie horrors replete with ghosts, serial killers, and monsters under children’s beds. A guest vocalist listed as “The Pleaser” delivers an ominous chorus, warning, “they’re coming for you . . . “ On “Chinee,” Angle takes aim at shortsighted MCs who are more interested in freestyle fame than building a solid body of work. (“I feel you’re haunted by the ghost of Eyedea past.”)

            The centerpiece of the EP is “Farns,” a posse cut that showcases Felix Thunder, D Average and Toby Diligent of prettygirlhatemachine, Tremayne, Ryan Nixon and Mic L of Neon Current, and ends with a verse by Coolzey. Though it’s the longest track on the album, “Farns” has one of those beats I could listen to for days, and as a result it feels like it ends far too quickly. “Rocket,” finds Angle playing the role of an aging rap superhero pondering his relevance and his purpose in the ever-changing world of rap music. There’s an interesting contrast here between subject matter and presentation; the lyrics deal with artistic self-reflection, but the music is light-hearted and playful. That contrast is indicative of the overall balance of this project, and despite its relatively short run time, it’s a varied and interesting listen.

            “White Andy” comes to a twisted conclusion with the song “Spookster.” Written as a series of journals entries, it tells the story of a group of people stranded in the mountains after an avalanche buries their cabin. When the food runs out and the pipes freeze, the song’s protagonist has to resort to drastic measures to try to survive. Even on a track so morbid Angle can’t seem to resist throwing in a quick dash of odd, self-deprecating humor at the last minute, leaving on the same note that he arrived.

            The peculiarity of Angle’s music is largely due to his deadpan, irreverent, and at times, dark sense of humor. There’s plenty of comedy on “White Andy,” but he also shows a willingness to indulge his imagination and work with unusual subject matter. This combination might not resonate with everyone, but it can be very rewarding for the listener who values the unique and the unexpected over the familiar. 

-Scott

'Where the wild things crush you': Cypher Pressure Vol. 1

Several weeks ago, a stark video in black and white titled 'Cypher Pressure Vol. 1' appeared on my Facebook wall. The YouTube thumbnail image displayed the familiar faces of some of Des Moines hip hop's heaviest hitters, with one of them appearing in the guise of Lord Raiden. My curiosity aroused, I clicked play and was treated to a showcase of uncut skill and DIY execution courtesy of Nu Depths, Young Tripp and Gadema of D.O.P.E. Clique, and Asphate Woodhavet of Maxilla Blue, with cuts provided by DJ Touchnice, also of Maxilla Blue. If this video managed to slip past your radar undetected, you have the opportunity to reverse that misfortune now. Enjoy.

- Scott

Maxilla Blue - Volume 3

"Fivehundredfifteen Percent," a track from "Volume 3," the latest offering from Des Moines-IA based crew Maxilla Blue, begins with the following profession of hometown loyalty: "Indivisibly dedicated to the Des Moines pavement/that's where we slay men/of every race, creed, and MC pedigree." (For those who don't know, 515 is the area code for central Iowa.) This dedication might baffle heads outside the state of Iowa - and even some within - that have yet to notice the blips of nascent Iowa hip hop on their radar. As an Iowa transplant that has spent a number of years living in Minnesota, I've come to expect screw-faced reactions whenever I use the words "Iowa" and "hip hop" in the same sentence, primarily due to the fact that many consider Iowa to be as culturally remote and desolate as it is geographically. This preconception casts a long shadow and adds another rung to the ladder Iowa artists must climb as they struggle to reach as many ears as possible. 

Maxilla Blue has been steadily scaling that ladder since the group formed in 2006, and has contributed significantly to the growth of Iowa hip hop in the process. Producer Aeon Grey and MC Asphate Woodhavet began their collaboration based on a mutual desire to experiment with the rules and conventions of their genre, and started work on a collection of songs that ultimately became the first Maxilla Blue record. Recognizing the importance of what a DJ/turntablist brings to the table, in the studio and on stage, the duo brought DJ Touchnice into the fold shortly before their debut was released on Central Standard Records in 2008. Aeon Grey and Twin Cities native Joe Williams created the Central Standard label in order to provide an outlet for Aeon Grey projects, including Aeon's solo work, Maxilla Blue, and the Des Moines-based Bum Rap collective. Maxilla Blue's sophomore album, "Volume 2," followed in 2010, and "Volume 3" dropped in March of this year as a split release between Central Standard and Chicago underground heavyweights Galapagos4. 

Visually, "Volume 3" grabs your attention with its intriguing album cover. Anyone who buys a lot of music has been tempted at one time or another to purchase an album based solely on its cover art. This album will likely be such a temptation for diggers, collectors, and music buyers in general, due to its distinctive, unconventional imagery, courtesy of Mayday Design. Featuring a dark, multi-colored Leviathan rearing its head against a soft, light background, the face of this album is an appropriate visual representation of a group of artists who pride themselves on challenging listeners by side stepping standard formulas and hollow rap cliches. 

"Volume 3" begins with a contemplative tone similiar to that of its predecessor. The first two tracks - "Quest" and "Saliva Live" (fans might recognize the latter from previous live performances) - are solid and engaging, and provide a recap of where Maxilla has been before they set out to explore new sonic territory. After this initial warm up, the album starts building momentum with "Lego Blocks," a track that features Asphate's insistent, literate flow on top of a steady beat that induces a serious head nod. As the title implies, the lyrics reflect on the process of deconstructing one's own ideas and beliefs in order to achieve new perspectives and continued growth. Asphate's complex wordplay is a key element of Maxilla Blue's music, and one that rewards listeners who are willing to take the time to deceipher his lyrics and build an interpretation upon multiple listens. (Note: the lyrics for "Volume 3" were only made available in a limited fashion as part of the Galapagos4 preorder bonus material.) 

"Lego Blocks" is followed by one of my favorite Aeon Grey productions, an excellent instrumental titled "Grey's Yawn." The track begins with keys playing a spectral melody over the shifting meters of a chilled out, loping jazz beat. Distorted textures gradually make their way into the mix before the beat transforms, becoming more aggressive over a back drop of thunderstorm effects, while the opening melody continues to float in the background, creating a polyrhythmic contrast. The arrangement is unpredictable and the overall vibe is very cinematic. One of the most notable aspects of "Volume 3" is Aeon Grey's growth as a producer, and this track epitomizes that growth. The cinematic quality of "Grey's Yawn" continues with "The Serpent's Twist," another highlight with its dusky jazz bar ambience complete with the sounds of drunken conversations, glasses clinking, and a lazy trumpet, as Asphate dissects weak-minded artists and crews. 

"Fire & Rain" is a bluesy, percussive instrumental that isn't quite as compelling as others on the album, but it provides contrast and levity before the mysterious, hypnotizing "Lost In Composition." These two tracks combined run 3:22 and display the efficiency of expression that is another hallmark of the group's work. In fact, the entire album runs approximately 40 minutes. This is refreshing for those of us old enough to remember when records regularly clocked in at 45 minutes or less, when emphasis was squarely placed on quality over quantity. 

Next is another personal favorite, a mostly-instrumental track titled "Crane Style," that sounds something like hip hop psychedelia. It features the sounds of violin, hand percussion, and soulful backing vocals, with words from Asphate and turntable flourishes from Touchnice periodically wandering in and out of the mix. "Crane Style" is followed by one of the catchiest songs ever heard on a Maxilla Blue album, "Perfect Mal-F." (There seems to be some debate about the proper pronunciation of this title.) A strong groove carries the verses and Aeon takes it higher with a well-placed guitar sample during the chorus. The frenetic, quick-hitting "Retrogression" keeps things moving and sets up the album's last instrumental, "Upon Descent." Though the overall sound is very different, this track rivals "Grey's Yawn" in terms of dynamics and arrangment with its unexpected changes and guitar textures. The instrumentals on "Volume 3" are more developed and integrated more successfully than on previous Maxilla Blue releases, and combined with greater contribution from Touchnice throughout the recording process, the result is the most cohesive Maxilla Blue record thus far.

This brings us to the climactic anthem "Fivehundredfifteen Percent." A dramatic intro sets up this droning banger that's certain to energize the hometown fan base and light up crowds on the road as well. The song is an expression of local pride, but woven into that display of pride is an admonishment directed at fans and fellow artists that there's still a lot of heavy lifting to be done before Des Moines and the rest of Iowa are recognized as artistically on par with numerous other scenes throughout the region, let alone the rest of the country.

The album closes with the laid back, soulful "Wretches Brew," which imparts a feeling like that of a show as it starts to wind down, as the crowd closes tabs and begins to disperse. Though the vibe is chill, the lyrics touch on apocalyptic social ills and speak of Asphate's vision of "a pale equestrian," creating an interesting juxtaposition between music and words, and characteristically inviting examination and interpretation on the part of the listener. And so, the album closes with a perfect encapsulation of Maxilla Blue's music - there's often an underlying sense of skepticism, but it's always balanced by the possibility of discovery and new understandings. 

- Scott Dominguez

"Volume 3" is available on iTunes, Amazon, Galapagos4, and UGHH. If you're old school like me and prefer a physical copy, you can stop by ZZZ Records in Des Moines, which any self-respecting Des Moines music fan should already be doing on a regular basis. 

In addition to this year's 80/35 Festival, you can catch Maxilla Blue live at DG's Taphouse in Ames, Saturday, July 14th.

Young Tripp - The Kraken

I don't lend a great deal of credence to popular opinion, but in this instance I'm willing to make an exception: there’s a reason why Young Tripp is considered to be one of the best MCs in Des Moines by many local hip hop fans and artists alike. If you’re not familiar with his work and would prefer to make your own judgement, you can download Tripp’s latest offering, “The Kraken – The Mixtape,” for zero dollars*.

“The Kraken” is presented by fellow D.O.P.E. Clique member Ritchie Daggers (the guy in the sleeveless Iron Maiden shirt) and features beats by Big Vern, Aeon Grey, and DMNY Beats, as well as cameos by Ryan Nixon and Gadema, and Calibre of Florida’s Scar Mafia.

While his style might not appeal to all listeners, the discerning ear will find that Tripp's skill is undeniable, and though some might focus solely on his raw and often rapid delivery, to do so is to ignore Tripp’s overall facility as a MC. Sophisticated wordplay and rhyme patterns combine with his aggressive style to create a formidable presence on the mic that few in DMI can step to.

*Tripp recently made his entire discography available for free download, effectively negating any and all of your excuses.

- Scott

Davey Suicide - The new face of Industrial

If you were a musical child of the late '80's or '90's more than likely you had listening experiences with some of the music that fell in to the category of "industrial" or "electronic". If you didn't I'd be willing to bet that bands like Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, Dope, Gravity Kills or even Union Underground were names that you could recognize. The genre seemed to somewhat fade in the early 2000's, but now in 2012 it's making a resurgence. 
Since I live in Iowa, I have a disadvantage in finding newer cutting edge music on the radio. We are a few years behind the trends according to the East and West coasts. Luckily, I've made some friends who make their living looking for new and upcoming artists to represent. When they ask if I'm able to do interviews with their artists I jump at the chance because it allows me to be part of the music industry since I can't play an instrument to save my life. It also allows me to expand my musical horizons and check some stuff out that I didn't know about or normally wouldn't listen to.
Davey Suicide resides in LA, California and is gearing up to release their debut album in July of this year. Even though the album isn't released, the band is creating some major buzz in the music world. Just recently Davey Suicide released their first single accompanied by a music video for their song "Generation Fuck Star". The video was directed by Chad Michael Ward who had directed videos for Black Veil Brides, Fear Factory and Marylin Manson!!!

Greg: How excited are you for your album to drop on July 17th? 
Davey Suicide: Extremely. I feel like this album defines me as a person and we’re starting a new chapter in the Industrial Rock world.
 
Greg: What can past and even new fans expect from you on the debut?
Davey Suicide: An unbridled honesty and confidence to rock that’s been absent for a long time.
There are tracks to fuck to, rebellion, shedding fear, propaganda and hope.  

Greg: Who is Davey Suicide the musician and who is Davey Suicide the person?
Davey Suicide: I think they both go hand in hand but the musician side of Davey Suicide releases the aggression that Davey Suicide the person allows to be stored away. Everything I talk about in my music is what I believe as a person so they go hand in hand.
 
Greg: Tell me a little about the deeper meaning to “Generation Fuck Star”?
Davey Suicide: It represents an empowering freedom and letting go of all the baggage that has plagued me for years. Being the new breed, taking what’s yours and second chances.
 
Greg: You’ve said that most of your musical influences are based out of the ‘90’s, Who are they?
Davey Suicide: Although they aren’t all 90’s bands, my main influences are Guns N Roses, Manson and Eminem.  

Greg: Can you describe what it’s like being added to Chad Michael Ward’s list of video greats?
Davey Suicide: The biggest challenge in any artistic collaboration is taking a vision from someone’s head and bringing it to life. I brought my concept to Chad and he tweaked it a little to tie up the story and it surpassed every expectation that I had. Going into it, I always felt that his visual aesthetic fit with the soundtrack of Davey Suicide and it came out that way. It was an inspiring experience and he’s an amazing visionary.
 
Greg: What do you have to say to the youth of America who look up to you?
Davey Suicide: I was once in your spot and instead of letting the world shape you, I made the world cater to what I’m about. In the moments where you feel lost and alone, remember that boundaries and guidelines are only there because we allow them to be there. We’re limitless and opportunities are endless if you go after what you want.
 
Greg: How about a question that is directed at your female fans? What qualities does Davey Suicides ideal woman have?
Davey Suicide: I love a woman with ambition and a sense of independence that allows her to be happy and confident with or without her man.

Greg: I have one question that everyone gets asked…There is no escaping
If a gun weren’t available, what would your weapon of choice be?
Davey Suicide: A nuclear bomb because once we land, we’re going to change the world.

For more info and show dates check out Davey Suicide on Facebook

- Greg

A few questions with Blackie Starks of Isaac James

     I'm willing to bet if you live in or anywhere near the Midwest you have probably heard of a band called Isaac James. If you haven't then you've never been to The House Of Bricks in Des Moines. Sad to say you've really missed the boat if you have never encountered either entity. Some pretty rich musical history flows in the veins of Isaac James and if you want to know more I will direct you here https://www.facebook.com/isaacjamesband. I have seen Isaac James perform more than once and have even had a chance to interview the entire band in person. Every time I see them play their sets get better and better. I'm guessing that's what happens when you don't change members once a month. The band has been playing tons of shows and has been receiving support from some pretty unlikely places. Front man Blackie Starks was able to talk to me about some of that recently.

Greg: I've noticed Isaac James has been traveling pretty extensively lately to play shows, what is your favorite city to play in? 
Blackie: We've been getting a lot of love out of Burlington, Iowa as of late, even sold out a show in an auditorium of 2400 people co-headlining with Royal Bliss. That was an amazing night for Isaac James. 

Greg: Can you tell me about the web show that is featuring some of your music and how you tie in with the show? 
Blackie: Shotgun Mythos is a new series in pre production. They approached us to use our music and you'll even see the main character in the series donning some IJ gear occasionally from what I'm told. I don't really know much else at the moment except that it's supposed to have an action packed solid story line. 

 

Greg: How does Isaac James write a song? 

Blackie: We don't really have any one set method. We throw out riffs, collaborate, and voila... song is written.. sometimes I'll have an idea to start with, sometimes the song is written right on the spot. It's just good chemistry.

 

Greg: What is your biggest musical accomplishment? 

Blackie: I'd say the show using our music is pretty decent. There are some other big things in the works that I'm not yet at liberty to discuss yet but stick around, you're gonna like what's coming.

 

Greg: What is your best and worst show memory? 

Blackie: I love small venues. Always have... We rolled into Burlington, Iowa for the first time a couple of years ago and played a radio station sponsored event at a place called the Crazy Coyote. The people were shoulder to shoulder and lined up out the door... We were packed in the corner of this place and all you could see was heads from the stage to the back wall... it was loud as shit and people were singing words to songs that weren't even released yet. They were learning them from the live videos of us off of Youtube. That was awesome!!!

Worst show.. hmmm... We played in Chicago with some close friends and we were on just like any other night and the crowd just flat out wasn't in to it. I think we even cut our set short by a few songs because it was so ridiculous. Later, a local band on the bill told us it was pretty typical of that venue and area of Chicago. Still sucked though.... 

Greg: If you could play one venue anywhere in the world, where would that be? Why? 
Blackie: I've always wanted to play CBGB's but unfortunately they closed it down a few years back. That place is legendary in the rock world and it would have been cool to say I played there.
 
Greg: When can we expect the next Isaac James album?  
Blackie: We're writing for it at the moment and hope to have something released by early 2013.
 
Greg: Band names are sometimes clever cliches or something a band has happen to them previous to choosing a name. Isaac James has somewhat of a different story with the band name. Would you care to share with us and your fans how the name came to be?  
Blackie: Joel, our drummer as you know was a co founder of Stone Sour and in the midst of recording their second record, Joel's son Isaac James Ekman was diagnosed with cancer and passed away which ultimately led to his departure from Stone Sour. We felt if it hadn't been for this, Isaac James the band may never have existed so we named it in memory of his son.

 

Greg: I have one question that I ask everyone I get a chance to interview that is pretty unconventional, and you're no exception, so if you're up to it, here it is! If a gun weren't available what would your weapon of choice be?  

Blackie: A light saber.....

-Greg Waldrop

A few questions with Brian Sheerin of Audio Addiction

Photo by Holly Parkhill

One great thing about not getting paid for what we do here at The Backstage Betty Pages is getting to do interviews with bands and artists that we like or have that influenced us. Don't kid yourself, we would love to get a paycheck for our hard work, but until that happens, we do what we want!!! There are a few bands whose live performances rank on the top 10 charts with me. Mower definitely belongs in the top 5 of that list. Mower and it's alter ego Slower have since slowed their touring for front man Brian Sheerin to focus on his other project Audio Addiction. I contacted Brian a few weeks ago and asked him to tell me a little more about the band. Being based out of San Diego, California, they have found sanctuary and support among friends and family in the surrounding areas. In Iowa, however, not much is known about Audio Addiction. You may have never heard of them unless you were paying close attention to the Mower Facebook page. What ever your case may be Brian was able to share with us his new(er) found outlet...

  
Greg: Can you tell me how Audio Addiction came to life?

Brian: My friends Keith and Johnny have been writing together for years and I used to see them around San Diego.  Up until the time I was recording the third Mower CD, those two didn't know I could do much more than scream, but they thought I was an interesting front man. After they started hearing the jazz/lounge covers, they wanted to see what I might do over some of their songs, that's when we started working together. As far as Kevin goes, I saw him perform with Buckfast Superbee at the Casbah one night and I thought. "This guy's a monster" so I hit him up online about playing in a cover band. The cover band thing didn't happen, but when we needed a bass player for this band, I called him. Jimmy is one of Johnny's good friends and a solid player so he got the call when we added a second guitarist. That's basically it. If we don't like you we'll just tell you that we formed in Liverpool in the sixties.

  
Greg: How does Audio Addiction differ from other projects that you've been a part of?

Brian: It differs in the vocal style more than anything. I love heavy music, but I grew up on 70's rock and then got into what was going on in the punk and glam scenes. In Mower, my role wasn't to do much singing and I reached a point where I wanted to make music that had elements of The Rolling Stones, MC5, Hanoi Rocks, The Who, Dead Boys, Jane's Addiction, bands with a lot of soul and style and grime to them. I'm never going to sound like any of those singers and the band doesn't write music like that, but we can get that vibe into what we do and it feels very real and that comes across. Audio Addiction is good about letting each guy do their thing. We trust each other. One thing we say in rehearsal all the time is to "serve the song", do what's best for the song. Maybe that means playing a simpler riff, or not singing over a part or not passing on a big fill and just keeping a solid groove. Whatever is going to make the song shine rather than trying to display your talents or whatever. Another thing that's different is that we are an idiot, I mean, collectively, we're just an idiot that makes himself laugh a lot. Audio Addiction is funny.

  
Greg: Not a lot of info is available on Audio Addiction, Is there anything that you would like fans of yours to know about the band?

Brian: Go to the shows when you see them booked.  One thing that struck home when I took a break from Mower is that these moments, the beginning of a band, that rawness, the grit and intensity, it's a passing thing. It's life, it's alive, it's living. Go to the shows, be a part of it while it's cool and unpolished and crammed into a little club and add your energy to it. Buy tickets, be there and we'll give it back with all we have onstage. We're entertaining, we'll get your blood moving. We're good for you, like vitamin C.

Greg: At what age did you first become interested in music?

Brian: I was four or five when I started identifying bands, The Beatles, The Monkeys, Sha Na Na, Elvis, but my entire life went down the tubes when I talked my dad into buying me Kiss Alive II for my birthday when I was six or seven. That was the end. I could have been somebody if it weren't for that album :-)

Greg: Who would you say your personal musical influences are?

Brian: Real Mofos, Ace Frehley, Eric Avery, Bill Ward, Brian Jones,  Izzy Stradlin. The type of person where the band loses the mojo when they're not in it.

  
Greg: When can we expect to hear more music from Audio Addiction for people who live outside of San Diego?

Brian: We have about two CD's worth of songs but we're going to release it on our own which means we have to foot the bill.  So for now, there is the freebie track out there at http://www.audioaddiction.co/music/ People can get a copy of "The Way To Hell' to check out while we sort out the details.

Greg: I have a final question I like to ask everyone I do interviews with and it isn't of the conventional variety. If you feel inclined to answer, here it is!!!
If a gun wasn't available, what would your weapon of choice be?

Brian: Your mind is the best weapon, right? I don't know. Two rubber bands, a pen and a paper clip. MacGuyver my way out of the situation.

Click on the blue highlighted links. For more information on Audio Addiction you can visit their Facebook page or website.

-Greg Waldrop

Superchief used to be the name of a locomotive...and it still is!!!

Des Moines, Des Moines, Des Moines!!! What can I say, this city makes me proud to be an Iowan. You may love California, Florida, or New York, but when it comes to music I believe that Des Moines' small venues and its tight knit crew of music buffs makes this town what it is. I wasn't going to say anything but hell, we have the rights to one of the biggest metal bands in the world!!! If you don't know who it is already I'll give you a hint ( it starts with a SLIP and ends with a KNOT).

A little outfit called Superchief came to my attention about three years ago and they have captured my attention since then. I'm not sure I could even count the amount of times I have seen them take the stage. I definitely can't count the amount of beers I have consumed in their company either, but who's counting anyway? I have seen lineup changes twice, I have seen them with no singer and I may or may not have seen their singer perform a Miley Cyrus song. Whatever the case may be with Superchief, I think they have proven themselves to be a premier and familiar face on the stages in Des Moines.

I have never spent $12 on one issue of a magazine in my life, but when I found out the boys from Superchief had a write up of their album in the January issue of Metal Hammer I had to scrape some change together. If you haven't seen the write up, well here it is along with a video that I shot of the boys about a year ago.

Oh, and by the way Playboy only charges $21 a year for a subscription and you get to see boobs!

-Greg

Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Revisited

To welcome our new comic, Troy Hall, we would like to motorboat him after posting this delicious review of a new love to his life, The Beatles....

Welcome him to your computer screens! (He has some truly awesome art that will be blessing our blog!!)


Sgt. Pepper's revisited

I recently purchased the new issue of Guitar World magazine, excited by the cover story which promised in depth recording information on some of the Beatles biggest recordings. While reading through the issue I came across an interview with one Andy Timmons, formerly of the band Danger Danger. While not a fan of the aforementioned former band, I was intrigued by what the interview promised. Insight into the new Andy Timmons Band project, an instrumental redux of the Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band. Could a power trio really pull off such a feat? The interview intrigued me to the point I purchased the album on iTunes and gave it a listen.
I should preface this review with a quick explanation of facts. I haven't always been the biggest Beatles fan. In fact, for more years than I care to admit I wrote them off as one of the most overrated bands of all time. In recent years I have come to see the error of my thinking and the Beatles have since become one of my favorite bands of all time. That said, I always loved the Sgt. Pepper's album. It was, in my earlier opinion of the band, their one good album. I have since seen the error of my ways, but still hold that particular record in very high regard.
The very first thing you need to know about this album is that they stick to the essence of the power trio without fail. Rather than resort to samples, or other instruments they get creative and recreate the odds and ends of the album as best they can within the confines of a guitar, bass, and drums. The nice thing is how impressively they do it. Whether its the recreated sitar via guitar on 'Within You Without You', or the animal sounds at the end of 'Good Morning, Good Morning', they seem to capture the sounds as close as possible.
It is also very interesting how the guitar is used on this record in the place of vocals. Anyone familiar with the original will definitely know where the words are meant to go on this record. The guitar sings them.  Some things that stood out to me on the first listen.  'She's Leaving Home', which in his interview Andy Timmons describes as "The only Beatles song to make me cry", is as haunting and heavy as the original.



It's easy to see that he was very driven on this particular song.  'When I'm Sixty Four', which was always a favorite of mine, is simply amazing. The use of acoustics gives it an almost country vibe, while still maintaining the fun integrity of the original.



The bottom line on this album is that they obviously did this as a labor of love, and they did it very well. I know I gave some opinions on some of my favorites, and I'd love to give some counterpoints, but the fact is that this is a very good band doing a very good rendition of the original record. There was not a single moment on this album when I thought they were doing a disservice to the original. If anything they were proving how relevant it still is after thirty-four years. I recommend this to anyone who can appreciate an honest homage.
The album, 'Andy Timmons Band Does Sgt. Pepper' is available on iTunes and through other outlets. I think it's worth your dime.

Reply to: Reply to Troy Hall

Send

Restavrant "Yeah, I Carve Cheetahs" Release Date: Jan. 10, 2012 Hillgrass Bluebilly Records

A couple of weeks ago my friend Greg asked me to do an album review of a band called Restavrant for our blog here.  Being busy with school, and family and the holidays it took me a little while to get around to actually listening to it.  What I heard upon my first listen was a spiritual, almost biblical experience.  Restavrant (pronounced restaurant) are a duo hailing from Victoria, Texas featuring Troy Murrah on vocals/guitar/slide/banjo and J. State on drums/vocals/drum machines/ and keys.  In the world of stripped down, guttural guitar driven garage rock these guys are the real deal.  Equal parts country, blues, and rock with a little metal and electronica thrown in for good measure, the sounds that come out of these two guys are quite literally genre defying.  Restavrant sound like Hank III and Jack White’s  hard partying, even harder drinkin’ bastard love child.  Murrah plays fast and with a lotta fuzz, belching out vocals like he’s at an old timey tent revival, except instead of fire and brimstone he’s preachin’ the gospel of Jack Daniels.  Throw in State on his ever evolving drum kit of license plates, suitcases, a gas can, and a tire rim and you have “Yeah, I Carve Cheetahs”, one of the freshest sounding albums I’ve heard all year.  Immediately I was struck by the sheer energy of these guys.  From Murrah’s snarling guitar and vocals on the opening track, all the way through to the last note the whole album just howls and demands that you listen more.  This is music that reaches out and grabs you by the balls, puts a cigarette in one hand, a bottle of whiskey in the other, punches you in the face and says “Drink mutherfucker!”  Jonathan Kim, writing on the Huffington Post put’s it best I think: “Restavrant sounds like a tornado ripping through a Texas town whose main industries are chainsaws, electronics repair, scrap metal, beer and sidewinder missiles.”  Restavrant are a band that demands to be heard. 

9 out of 10

Near perfect

Dead Abby, XXX-Mas Edition

Disclaimer: This is an advice column, not an instruction to life, not direct orders. There is probably going to be offensive material presented. I'm not sorry, I support freedom of speech. This may not even be real...


Dead Abby,
I want to propose to my significant other for the holidays, but am really nervous and don't know how to go about it.  How do I  go about this?
Scared and Wanting Forever Vagina

Dear Scared and Wanting Forever Vagina,
You're either going to do it or not. There should be indications as to whether or not she's going to say 'yes'.  Of course, it's going to be nerve wracking, of course there's a risk. Make a big public spectacle out of it and it will be much harder for her to say 'no'. Be really, really drunk and it will also, more than likely, sway her in the 'yes' direction.  One of the most romantic proposals I've ever heard is when one of my friends proposed to his lady by demanding a blow job.  He was very, very persistent and when she finally gave in and took his dick out, he had an engagement ring tied to it.  Of course, if you're going to choose this method, you may want to do it in private...bar bathrooms and truck stops are nice. Depending on how badly you want to marry this girl, and how doubtful you are that she's going to say yes, you could also try the 'Otis' method.  Keep her captive, set up a nice room with some nice wardrobe options, feed her a few times a day.  Eventually, she will be yours.    Some people are traditionalists and want the approval of family, if you're going to ask, you probably already know what's appropriate and what's not for your situation. Engagements are beautiful...make it magical.  Splurge, buy the expensive whiskey!



Dead Abby,
I am lonely.  Really, really lonely during the holidays and really, really need to get laid. Help!
Horny for the Holidays

Dear Horny for the Holidays,
There's a place lonely people go during the holidays, it's called the bar.  I've spent many, many a Christmas/holiday in a bar.  People are drunk and vulnerable.  It's the perfect place to pick up some stray.  Maybe offer to make a nice Banquet meal as means to lure said prospective piece of ass to your place.  Definitely start out by buying some drinks.  One crucial part of going out and getting lucky during the holidays is to have plenty of cash and condoms.  Also, make sure you're equipped with drinking legs.  No girl is going to want to go home with a sloppy drunk, drooling and pissing all over himself.  People get much more generous during the holidays...buy a round for the bar, that gets notice and opens doors.  Buy your prospective a drink or two...challenge them to a randy round of arm wrestling.  Act extra sweet, chances are if they're at the bar on Christmas night, alone, they're lonely too. I would give caution to girls traveling in groups.  Girlfriends are a lot less likely to let one of theirs go off with a stranger.  Of course, this is assuming that you're not some psycho serial killer.  If you are, go to the police station and offer one of the friendly, 'lonely' officers a drinky...they'll make sure to put you up in a nice, warm place with plenty of friends. Another cheerful place you could try are your local porn stores or strip clubs.  You're guaranteed to as least view some genitalia.  You may not get to touch it, but...If you're going to try the porn store route, make sure you have plenty of time.  Women don't frequent them as much as men and  you may need to stake it out for awhile before anything promising comes around.  Leave the clerk alone, they get it enough.


Dead Abby,
What is the origin of the Christmas tree?
Festive!

Dear Festive!,
The first documented uses of a Christmas tree in Estonia, in 1441 with the Brotherhood of the Blackheads.  It was used for ceremonial purposes.  In the German Middle Ages, plays at Christmas time within churches often featured an evergreen "Paradise tree" from which an apple was plucked. The first evidence of Christmas trees outside of a church is of the 16th century, with trees in guild halls decorated with sweets to be enjoyed by the apprentices and children.  Now, these are documented historical 'facts'...but, I wasn't there.  I'm sure you weren't there...history can be quite uncertain.  I have my own theories...
I think the tree is a phallic holiday symbol.  Think about it, there's an erect tree with a star on the end...compare it to sex; an erect penis with a glorious star, the g-spot, at the end of it...hopefully...with a starry, starry orgasm.  I think in times of sexual repression, people used the tree as an open door to sex.  It wasn't socially acceptable to speak of sex, especially in front of family, and family quarters were traditionally very close.  My belief is the tree was erected...which began foreplay.  The wife would then decorate the tree and top it with a star when the sexual advance was to be accepted.  As if to say ''Here...I offer you my star...stab it and make it explode.''  They would, then, creep off into an alley and get in on Christmas style.
Another theory is that the tree is a symbol of fertility.  The tree would go in place of something, like, say...a bed pan.  The tree would be erected and this would be an indication that the woman was ready to breed.  This differs from my first theory, as that was one of sexual escapades and this is one for breeding purposes.  The woman would send neighborhood children out to gather a tree when her husband was away at work, have it ready, along with dinner when her husband arrives home from work, disrobes upon his arrival and they proceed on to making babies.  Or, at the very least, perfecting the skill of doing so.  I don't believe that this theory directly corresponds with Christmas, as breeding could happen at any time of the year.  With poor heating in homes though, sex would be a very practical way of warming things up.  It would also add to pleasant smells as hygiene was not always desirable.
A third theory is that, in the tradition of St. Nick, the tree was an indication of a swinger friendly household.  In the theory of Christmas, a grown man sneaks into the house leaving 'goodies'.  It was always thought that this was a tradition for children, when in fact, it's actually a pretty perverted holiday.  The tree would be set up in a window, doors left unlocked, the couple would be sparingly clothed as they slept.  This would invite random, wandering and sexually aroused strangers.  Holiday is generally a time of giving and some couples find moments of stale sex in their marriages.  Instead of creating new passions between them, they leave the door open to strange.
Now, I can only assume, based of facts I've gathered, stories I've heard that these theories have contributed to the tradition of the Christmas tree.  Perversions have been allowed to flourish in modern culture and have probably gone far beyond what I have concocted here.  Christmas trees probably mean many awful things that my perverse mind can't even conceive of.


For questions, concerns and hatemail, please send correspondence to: thebackstagebettypages@gmail.com

Lennon and Dimebag, Thanks for Changing Our World!

December 8th always marks a sad but celebratory time in our home. Sad, because of the death of two great musicians, and celebratory, because we still carry the memory of those two people. Though we didn’t personally know them, they influenced our lives and changed the face of music and the world that surrounds it forever.

John Lennon was shot in 1980 by a fan named Mark David Chapman. Lennon was a revolutionary figure when it came to his contribution with The Beatles and his political views. His life was an amazing journey to hear about even today. It’s horrible to know that such a peace advocate’s life was cut so short by a “fan”. We all could have learned much more from the musical roller coaster that he started our parents on so many years ago.

Dimebag Darrell was also shot on Dec. 8th, but in 2004 while performing with Damageplan at an Ohio venue. Dimebag will always be remembered for his contribution in Pantera. Darrell Lance Abbott (Dimebag) was born in 1966 and is considered one of the pioneers of modern metal. His heavy riffs and searing solos let you know that he was a samurai of the six string. Any Pantera album that you listen to will let you know of his greatness. I remember listening to Vulgar Display of Power when I was in 8th grade. It made me feel like I was on top of the world. Anyone that would have decided to fuck with me when I was listening to that would have gotten a fistful of Sony Walkman to the head.

My memories will always be of my troubled youth trying to find sanctuary in the music that still comforts me today. It saddens me greatly to know that something that held me so close in my teenage years is gone today. Cheers to those who feel like we do on this monumental day, especially to Dimebag and Lennon.

Every year we toast the memory of these two great musicians that have passed on to the other side. Last year it was Jagermeister, this year it’s Jim Beam. Please hold your drink high for both of these musicians who meant so much to all of us.

-Greg Dec. 8th, 2009

I wrote this blog on December 8th of 2009. I have tried to write something every year on this date. This year I will do the same. I wanted to post this particular blog because so much has changed musically for me since then and this was from the days of Myspace. I feel the audience is a little bigger now that Dangerous Music has moved forward and The Backstage Betty Pages was formed. I also felt that I left a few things out. I always wrote on December 8th which made this somewhat more emotionally exhausting to write. It always seemed to be accompanied by some sort of documentary or “Behind The Music” involving either Lennon or Dimebag. This year I’m going to write a day early to avoid the stress!!!

I saw Vinnie Paul perform with Hellyeah a few years back. I remember Vinnie standing up from his drum kit and ask that an entire audience of 7000+ toast the memory of his brother. I turned to my wife with a tear in my eye thinking about how cool it was to share that moment with her and even though we never met, that moment was also shared with one of my heroes from way back, Vinnie Paul. You can expect moments like this today all over the United States and even the world. Candlelight vigils are held for John Lennon in New York and I’m positive that a few shot glasses full of Jagermeister are held high for Dimebag Darrell.

My wife is a huge Beatles fan. She has even been so bold as to have Lennon’s self portrait tattooed on her skin. Our apartment from a few years ago used to look like a college student's dorm room. Littered with posters, trinkets, Todd McFarlane Beatles toys, buttons, records and about anything else related to The Beatles that you could imagine. I asked her a couple questions about her feeling on John Lennon’s death and here is what I got.

What did John Lennon mean to you?
He was part of such an important band that created such great music.  Plus the music that him and Paul McCartney wrote together will stand the test of time.  I don’t think we would have most of the music or artists today if it wasn’t for The Beatles and John Lennon.  And not only did he write fantastic music, but he had such a positive message about love and peace.  There really hasn’t been many people like him in our history.

Do you feel that music or the music industry would be different if he were still alive?
I do, but I couldn’t really tell you how.  Just because you never know how one person will affect things.  I think maybe John and Yoko would have kept pushing the envelope.  I think they would have either come off as crazy or just pissed people off.  Either way, John would have been a driving force throughout every facet of the music industry.

Today I hope everyone takes a moment to think about two great musicians who were taken from us entirely too soon. I think I will start the day out by reliving a little of my youth and blare some Vulgar Display Of Power.

-Greg

Mountain Sprout, Legendary Shack Shakers and Split Lip Rayfield in Ames, Iowa

My first introduction to a live bluegrass show last summer left me in a wake I thought I would never be in and also left me doing tons of research on bands I had never encountered before. Metal was always my first choice in music and if you ask anyone who personally knows me they will tell you that I trashed the music they listened to on more than one occasion. With Metal being the most superior form of music, why would you listen to anything else? Maybe I’m getting older or maybe my taste in music is changing. Whatever the case, my eyes have been opened to many other different forms of music not just Metal.

I saw Split Lip Rayfield last summer in Kansas City. After listening to countless CDs of theirs it was great to finally see them live. The bill hosted a gamut of other acts that were great, but I was there to see Split Lip. When I was informed they were coming to Ames, Iowa I jumped at the chance to see them again. A half hour drive to Ames was definitely more appealing than a two hour drive to Kansas City to see a show! Three acts were on the Ames bill: Mountain Sprout, Legendary Shack Shakers and Split Lip Rayfield. I really liked the closeness and feel of DG’s Tap House in Ames, however, I was not impressed with the bar staff. I understand it’s a college town and beer needs restocking, but with three people behind the bar I felt they could have been a little faster refilling the drinks. Oh, and their shot glasses are very deceiving, they have a lip on the inside of them that actually makes the glass appear regular size. In actuality the shots are smaller. (end alcoholic rant)

If you like your bluegrass dirty, I mean really dirty, look no further than Mountain Sprout. To the unfamiliar ear you may only hear the twang of a banjo and the harmonized clicks of the upright bass, but to the seasoned fan there is something more. The quartet from Arkansas has figured out a way to combine humor, fast paced bluegrass and beer. Your Mom may not approve of their lyrical content, but if she does you may be listening to her music. Cocaine, weed, liquor, speed, strippers, dry counties, and lustful acts with neighbors are a few song topics and this may cover the lyrics in a song or two. Content aside, Mountain Sprout is a fun band to watch live. The fiddle may not be considered a bad-ass instrument, but then again most people have never seen Blayne Thiebaud play it. If you are looking for a physically energetic band, then Mountain Sprout may not be for you. Blayne and upright bass player Daniel Redmond will be the only two that you will find standing during a performance. I thought the crowd was a little lacking at the Ames performance, this is probably due to being an opener as well as people in Iowa not knowing who they are.

Grayson Van Sickle of Mountain Sprout in Ames, IA

When I learned that Col. JD Wilkes of The Dirt Daubers was also the vocalist of  Legendary Shack Shakers I couldn’t wait to see what he had to bring to the stage with this band. I would have guessed that he wouldn’t disappoint and he didn’t! If anyone needs a free lesson on how to be a performer I would suggest watching any Youtube video of Legendary Shack Shakers. JD is an absolute madman with his taped up distortion filled microphone and all around stage presence. Their set seemed to go on forever even though it was about average length probably because of his commanding interaction with the crowd. A surprising twist to the Shack Shakers, if you like trivia, is guitarist Duane Denison used to play for The Jesus Lizard. If you are going to spend your hard earned cash on a real show and you want your moneys worth, GO SEE LEGENDARY SHACK SHAKERS!!! Photos of the Shack Shakers set can be viewed HERE

There isn’t much to say about Split Lip Rayfield that myself or other reviewers haven‘t said before. These three are amazing technical performers as well as a great cohesive on stage. I am sorry that I never got to see SLR with Kirk Rundstrom (former guitarist). This show was the end of a tour for the trio for a few days and they were to get a much needed break. The face and stage actions of Wayne Gottstine (mandolin) said it all. I did hear some people in the crowd say that they noticed him watching the game on one of the tv’s in the back while he was playing. Whether it’s true or not, Wayne plays the mandolin so effortlessly it may have been hard to tell what he was looking at. I was very happy to hear two new songs again that made it onto the set list for the evening one of which is titled “I Used To Know Your Wife”. I am told by reputable sources that this track has plans of making it on the new album stated for release in 2012. Split Lip Rayfield photos

-Greg

Dead Abby, 11/17/2011

Disclaimer: This is an advice column, not an instruction to life, not direct orders. There is probably going to be offensive material presented. I'm not sorry, I support freedom of speech. This may not even be real...


 Dead Abby,
My bitch sister won't let me freely express myself. I really enjoy interpretive dance as a way of communication, and I feel that it is so very important in our day and age.What should i do about this emotionally constipated jerk that I'm related to?
-Dancing Queen

Dear Dancing Queen,
I want to start by relating a memory I have of this very issue.  I once had a sister.  Unfortunately, she passed away from a multitude of sexually transmitted diseases.  She danced.  She danced at work, she danced at the bar, she danced at shows, she danced in the grocery store. One day, a day care had an outing at a pumpkin patch that we happened to stop into.  She couldn't find a pumpkin that pleased her.  She expressed this distaste in interpretive dance.  Her pelvis swayed from one row to the next, leading her. Like some kind of breakage in the human form, her pelvis was in control.  Unfortunately, her pelvis knocked over a few children and to make a long story short, she had to go door to door, notifying her neighborhood of her innocent perversion.  She also never got her pumpkin.
I think you really have a slew of options here.  1)  Have you thought about suicide?  Since you're so repressed emotionally from the inability to stand up for yourself and dance like the obscene butterfly that I'm sure you are, you may want to look into that.  There are ways that are fairly painless for a pussy such as yourself.   2)  Have you thought about bludgeoning your sister in the head?  Easiest way to remove yourself from a negative situation is to remove the situation.  3)  Have you danced in a mirror lately?  Perhaps your version of 'interpretive dance' is offensive to all others senses.  Perhaps those around you would rather use rusty wire to amputate fingers and toes and commit a slow suicide by consuming ONLY Nikolai Vodka?  Really assess your dancing skills here.  They might really be hurting those around you.  4)  Ask the emotionally constipated jerk to seek some counseling with you.  Perhaps there's some sexual tension that needs to be worked out, hence they're getting mad at your gyrations.  Or, perhaps you're just making a big ass of yourself and should stop.  I'm also curious as to why you feel interpretive dance is so important these days...I'd really like a response to that. In my opinion, although it can be entertaining, interpretive dance is much like spandex, few should do it.


Dead Abby,
I hate my job. My boss is horrible. She belittles me and is trying to fire me with unattainable tasks that I have to have done in two weeks. I am a good employee and it is a great corporate company. I can't lose this job.

Signed,
Citifiedpink Turned Beet Red

Dear Citifiedpink Turned Beet Red,
Quit.  You can either quit or they're going to fire you.  You can also use the option of accusing your boss of sexual or physical assault.  See examples below:




We all know there are different types of employees.  Some are hard workers, some are lazy piles of dung.  Generally, we see the hard workers carrying the weight...and the brunt.  That's just the way the corporate cookie crumbles in our undergarments.  Your best bet to surviving in corporate America is to go out and buy a huge butt plug.  Insert this butt plug in the sitting position.  Don't whine.  Don't even think you're going to be able to shit.  Stay there....stay still.  This will be sufficient training.  There are plenty of people who do survive this world.  I think most of them are lucky. Seriously.  Quit your job...The market is shit, but your sanity is worth the world. Really, think about it.  When you're miserable at your job, it leaks into all other parts of your life.  I bet your sex life has diminished.  I bet you're starting to separate yourself from the people you love.  I bet you're spending a lot of time in the garage hiding bottles and brillo pads.  I bet you're lashing out at people that are close to you.  I know working a shitty job is not an addiction, but the actions of people in either position are similar.  You can stay, but you'll be better off being tortured and murdered.


Dead Abby,
Is there a way to sweeten up fact that I used to be a prostitute on my resume?
-I'm A Giver

Dear I'm A Giver,
Prostitution is the oldest profession.  It's been glamorized, made fun of, had movies and books surrounding its mystique.  Women have scoffed at it, men have utilized it and governments have profited off of it.  Be proud of what you've done.  Break it all down.  Just like any other job, think about what all goes into prostitution; marketing, cleaning, accounting, care giving, therapy, discipline, scheduling, performing arts, etc.  Bottom line, there's a lot that this job entails.  As with any job, there are so many ways to name a job.  Think of all the fancy job titles one can create for a Customer Service Representative...If you thought about it, you can surely come up with at least a few job titles that aren't quite as offensive as 'prostitute'.  I think you're in a similar situation as many stay at home mom's who are now looking for 'honest' employment.  Many employers will look on either of your professions as...not so professional.  Anyone who knows anything knows that this is false. The world of a prostitute or a single mother is a thankless one.  You give and give and give and wait for that one special moment to make it all worth while...maybe it's your child making you card, maybe it's the man who likes to dress up as a baby decides NOT to shit himself...either way, it's that moment that makes your job worth while.
I could elaborate on this subject for days, but I'm going to stop there.
Pick up a Thesaurus and sell yourself!!! You're good at that!


To submit questions to Dead Abby, please direct questions to:  thebackstagebettypages@gmail.com