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An Undercover Talent on the Rise < Back Tyler Harrison Nicole Brice Jan 9, 2023 Share An Undercover Talent on the Rise I am the type of person who is constantly looking for new and interesting people with which to surround myself, virtually or physically. If I feel a connection to another human, then I want to know more about them. That’s how I first stumbled upon Tyler Harrison. A random follow request from Tyler on Instagram grew into a discovery of what he’s about and who he is as a person, and that led to a burning desire to showcase him to all of you. Tyler Harrison is a writer and internationally published author, who is not well known … yet, but I feel his time is coming. With a creative flair like no other, Tyler’s ability to assemble words in a poetic, imaginative way is what sets him apart from others his age. His knack of rhyming and word flow is incredible, and at 27 years old with all he has witnessed and endured throughout his young life, he is a man with wisdom far beyond his years and his writing reflects that. Enduring a traumatic upbringing as a child, Tyler was able to turn his pain into art that jumps off the page at you and makes you stop to breathe and think so you can process the words you just read. A very creative poet, fiction and sci-fi author, and a screenplay writer with three books under his belt, Harrison has just completed a screenplay and is on the path to success, so watch out! His current books are “An Apocalyptic Assistance,” “I Couldn’t Find Her So I Created Her,” “Letter in a Bottle,” and the newly finished screenplay, “Rewriting History: The Mind Trip for Centuries.” I was able to chat with Tyler recently about his work, his hopes and dreams, and his upcoming projects. This guy has so much in the queue, it’s insane! MaM : Tyler, thank you for speaking with me. I just finished reading your first book and I wanted to get a little more info about it from you. What a read! TH : So, yeah, “I Couldn’t Find Her So I Created Her.” I started writing it when I was in beauty school. During my first semester, I started talking about writing a book, so in my second semester I had this … me and my dad, yeah … my dad blew up on me and I was like, ‘I’m going to write about everything I’ve ever witnessed in the home.’ … In this book, I tell my story inside and outside the home, and [I] also talk about the memories and the people that I’ve met, and [the] different encounters [I’ve had] as much as I can remember, from the time I entered the world (or Earth) to the point where I was in college, and it was very therapeutic for me. [I was inspired by] talking to this girl and she was a creative writing major at the university I was attending. I was like, ‘Maybe if I show her I am into creative writing, I can impress her and woo her. It started as an initial collection of poems and I always wondered how one goes about being published, so I googled publishing companies and I … saw Austin McCauley Publishers and read about submitting things for publication. It was late one night and half asleep, I submitted the initial manuscript, which consisted of the selection of poems and other drastic stuff, and I didn’t expect to hear anything back from them … a few weeks later, I got an e-mail. MaM : To have published three books by age 27 is amazing. Tell me a little more about your other book, “An Apocalyptic Assistance” and some of your other work. TH : “An Apocalyptic Assistance” is a sci-fi fantasy novel … about Atlantis and the light. … I start by trying to capture the reader with the introductions of the characters. “Letter in a Bottle,” which is another book I’ve written, is a collection of poems [and] romantic poems, and I’ve got six illustrated books in production with the publishing house and those are waiting to be released. The illustrator is still working on the artwork, and they still have things to finalize on the business side. I just finished writing my first film screenplay, so I’m pretty excited about that as well. I’ve been writing so much that I’m actually tired of writing right now. MaM : I can relate to that. The creative process is definitely interesting. You have all these ideas and if you don’t write them down, you lose them. Your story, though, is what really drew me to you. Your background in an abusive household—I can relate to that because I grew up in an abusive household, too, and you’ve been through so much that I feel your strength comes through in your writing. [It] is inspiring to others. It inspired me. So, what do you see as your plans for the future? What all would you like to accomplish? TH : I just got finished writing the screenplay for a production company out of Atlanta, and I’m submitting it to them and … hoping they will want to sign a deal to use [it]. MaM : Tell us a little more about your screenplay. Is it a continuation of your books? TH : It’s a historical narrative … an alternate narrative, if you will. Basically, Ben Franklin becomes a traitor to the United States and helps the natives win back the land from the Americans. Ben is described as a war hero and [is] younger and not how most [people] think he would look. It’s been an amazing experience to develop these characters and write this script, but it has also been challenging. MaM : I want to know a little more about your book, “Letter in a Bottle.” Give us a brief synopsis of it. TH : So, it was 2019, and I went to this concert … it sounds kind of bizarre, but I am a hopeless romantic and I believe in divine intervention, and I fell in love with this female drummer … I felt drawn to her and developed this collection of poems inspired by her, and that’s basically the book. MaM : What inspires you to write all of this? You have such a diverse portfolio. You go from romantic to sci-fi fantasy to historical fiction and so, is it just life happenings you use as inspiration? TH : I just really want to write something that has never been written before. I can put all my memories into a time capsule with my writing and I don’t have to think about them anymore. It’s therapeutic. I can put them in this ‘box’ and they’re out of my world and I can forget about them and the past. All I then am left with is this moment, and it’s beautiful. MaM : I really like that analogy. It’s like closing a chapter on your life and just moving forward. I dig that. So, what else does the future hold for you? Any other projects upcoming? TH : Well, [I’m] working to get all my books on Audible and I’ve got the other six books in the queue, and I just want to keep writing and become internationally known. I’d like to eventually quit my day job and just do this for a living. I hope that my story will inspire others and reach other people’s hearts and hopefully my words can help transform how people see the world. To learn more about Tyler Harrison and to purchase his books, you can visit: Tyler Harrison | Facebook Tyler Harrison (@undercover_star_talent) • Instagram photos and videos Amazon.com: Tyler Harrison: books, biography, latest update www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The latest from Hawthorne Oachs is another song full of depth and honesty. < Back Reviews on the Real: Must’ve Been the Wind by Hawthorne Oachs Nicole Brice Jun 8, 2025 Share The latest from Hawthorne Oachs is another song full of depth and honesty. Oh my gosh, Hawthorne Oachs is speaking from my soul again. Hawthorne , are you reading my mind? I swear if Hawthorne and I were the same age at the same time, we would have been best friends back in the day. The latest from singer/songwriter Hawthorne Oachs is another song full of depth and honesty. Titled ‘ Must’ve Been the Wind ’, it vividly illustrates the struggle between wanting to express feelings and the hesitation to do so, but in the end, admitting the truth to both yourself and the other person. I guess it must have just been the wind. I’ve faced situations like this many times before, especially in my youth, and it really sucks. You start to second-guess yourself, so, once again, it must have just been the wind. Released May 5, 2025 Hawthorne’s music in this song is upbeat , yet the lyrics convey that sense of longing for someone who doesn’t feel the same way. Through her remarkable storytelling abilities with songwriting, you feel every single note she sings. Each word carries more meaning than the one before it. There’s a sweetness and honesty in her songwriting, too, along with a wisdom that seems far beyond her years. In this rapidly changing era of technology, Hawthorne stands out as an inspiring role model for the upcoming generation of girls. She is deeply connected to the natural world , which is evident in every song she creates. Her work reflects her fascination with both the darkness and light of nature, as well as the complexities of human emotions. She is on a mission to help others through her music by addressing topics that resonate with people of all ages, resulting in conscious and uplifting pop music. Lyric video for 'Must've Been the Wind' Stream ‘ Must’ve Been the Wind ’ now on your favorite service. To learn more about Hawthorne Oachs: www.hawthorneoachs.com Musical Artist | Hawthorne Oachs Hawthorne Oachs is a teen multi-hyphenate songwriter, singer, producer, musical artist, digital artist, and award-nominated actress. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Charlton Fine Art < Back Be Still My Beating Heart Keeley Brooks Apr 13, 2023 Share Charlton Fine Art I certainly do not know much about fine art, but I am a creative type, so I do know when I’m gazing upon something truly special. And, while all kinds of art speak to me on some level in some way, there are those moments when you view, read, watch, or listen to something that transcends awareness, then reaches right into the core of your being and snags hold of your soul. That is when you know something inside of you has met its counterpart in something else, and I met a piece of mine in the artwork of Melanie Charlton , owner of Charlton Fine Art . Melanie & Cheese (provided by artist) A few weeks ago, I opened Facebook and right there waiting in my feed was a gorgeous portrait of a Boston Terrier that took my breath away. See, I have a soft spot for Bosties because I have one. While my brain knew I was looking at a painting, my heart and eyeballs swore differently. The image was so lifelike and full of such heartfelt personality that I had to know more about the artist who painted it. Hailing from Alberta, Canada , Melanie Charlton is an absurdly gifted and completely self-taught contemporary artist with a heavily rooted focus on imaginative realism/surrealism. Painting since 2007 , her work reflects her genuine love and passion for animals and nature. She’s 100% a perfectionist, and each of her pieces reflect that. From dogs and elephants to farmhouses, winter streams, and dreamscapes, Charlton’s paintings are certainly worthy of lighted displays and glass cases. Art by Melanie Charlton Art by Melanie Charlton What makes her unique as a contemporary artist aren’t her subjects, though; it’s her … who she is. Melanie is kind and authentic, very gentle and deeply empathetic—a genuinely sweet soul, and those qualities are what come through most in her art. Her intentional, delicate touches of surrealism interweave with her style of realism and organically work together to capture not just the individuality of each subject but also each subject’s essence. Charlton’s images are captivating in the tiniest details, but don’t just take my word for it; see for yourself. This is Mickey, guys. Check out the fine detail and really spend some time looking into this sweet pup’s eyes, see what you notice. Then, check out my conversation with Melanie about her influences, her processes, and her love for dogs. Art by Melanie Charlton MaM : Melanie, thank you so much for taking some time away from your studio to chat with us and introduce yourself to our world. How were you introduced to art and by whom? MC : Memories of my mom painting at her easel still float around in my head. When I was very little, I was not allowed to touch her oil paints and things because she used [supplies] like turpentine but was totally exposed to her creative process. By the time I was in kindergarten, one of my favorite places was in the sun-filled corner of the classroom at the little easel. I can still smell the paint pucks! MaM : What impact did that have on you as a child? MC : My first experiences were out in Alberta , and those memories of my mother, mixed with my very vivid dreams (which always included animals and birds), impacted me deeply. I used to get teased by my family for not being able to distinguish my dreams from reality. [They used to say], ‘Oh look, she’s having a Melory again.’ A Melory is one of my memories that didn’t happen but is what [my family] called it. (laughs) My art has allowed me to think about things, and it allows me to create a space for my mind to work things out at my own pace [while] afford[ing] myself the peace and patience away from the rest of the world. My art has definitely helped me discover what I truly value in life. MaM : What specifically about art spoke to you? What drew you in (no pun intended)? MC : Ha ha, I’ve always been drawn to anything that creates an emotional response! The ability to capture a specific feeling or dream-like atmosphere always inspires me. It’s like looking for that little spark that stirs your inner soul when you see it. To create art that can be experienced is so satisfying. Art by Melanie Charlton MaM : Yes! That’s exactly what you do: create art that isn’t just seen, it’s also experienced on a deeply emotional level. What do you love most about imaginative realism/surrealism, and how do you convey that in your work? MC : Imaginative realism/surrealism has a lack of logic and an intensity that dives right into people’s personal thoughts and feelings. It’s honest and isn’t required to make sense. I think we all have a creative streak in us; however, our world teaches us to be practical and ignore our impulsive urges. If I think about how I convey this in my work, I laugh. The thought of a grown woman sitting down to paint a picture of someone’s dog, or a dream, is not practical, [nor is it] a serious line of work by today’s standards. Sometimes, I receive a funny response when I tell people I paint pet portraits but then sometimes, I meet people who love their animals so dearly—those are my people. The love and refuge we exchange with the soul of a pet is pure. MaM : Completely pure and unconditional. It’s so beautiful, and it’s very different than the love and refuge we exchange with other people, I think. Tell us about the four-legged babies in your life and what led you to paint them. MC : I was lucky enough to grow up in a household that had a dog named Joey. He was a big mixed breed with two dots for eyebrows. Very loving and very scared of thunderstorms. His death was the only time I saw my father cry, even though he tried to hide it from us. After Joey, we were lucky enough to get a dog breed my father had always wanted as a child: a Boston Terrier. Ernie was the runt of the litter but ruler of the household! I don’t think I experienced all the highs of love and the lows of loss until Ernie. Maybe I learned you can’t have one without the other and that I am fine with that and even respect it. Years later, after Ernie, I moved out and, of course, decided to get my own Boston Terrier, Maggie. She was with me 11 years and was the epitome of the world’s sweetest girl. She broke our hearts when she passed. Words don’t convey the love or the loss [I felt for her], and she was my first portrait. Time doesn’t heal, and I actually haven’t finished her main portrait, yet. I think it keeps her closer and that chapter open. The decision to get another Boston was made as my husband and I found ourselves chasing other Boston owners down on the street to meet their dogs. … Now, we’re the proud parents of our 10-year-old boy Toby, who is literally treated like royalty, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. MaM : Oh, I completely get that. My Bostie is, for sure, the Queen Elizabeth of our lives. Do you have a favorite painting of your own? If so, what is it and why? What does it represent for you? MC : After all [my] years of painting, I actually don’t have a favorite piece. I just see the personalities and can’t choose. I do like one of my work-in-progress pictures of my previous Boston Terrier, Maggie. It’s just her, and I feel her eternal connection. MaM : You hit the nail on the head. Eternal connection … that is exactly what your portraits provide. Those are the two words epitomizing your work. Do you ever do any live paintings? MC : Live paintings? Ahhhh! I cringe at the idea, as most of the time I [am] painting in my pajamas. (laughter) I can barely stand my own family coming into my art room until I’m happy with what I create. Maybe one day. I wish I could be more open, but I think sometimes it takes more than one attempt at working things out. I hold dear the time, space, and patience to focus on who [and what] I’m painting. MaM : How do you capture a pup’s (or animal’s) personality? And seriously, how do you get your paintings to look so life-like? Because viewing your work is like looking at live images. Your talent is truly breathtaking. Art by Melanie Charlton MC : Making them look real has taken years of experimenting with color, and I honestly feel like I am just starting to learn. One of my favorite books is ‘ Oil Painting Secrets from a Master ’ by Linda Cateura . Her book on David A. Leffel is superb on how to see light and color … painting the light and how it bounces off things and painting what you really see. For instance, when you look outside and see the snow, it’s white, right? Well, no. It’s pink, purple, blue, and everything in between. It is the same with white fur … and the same with the eyes. I love their eyes. I see the colors in them and know exactly how I want them. MaM : What do you get commissioned to do most? MC : Mostly, I get commissioned for Boston Terrier portraits. I was lucky enough that the breeder we got our Toby from was connected to a few Boston Terrier groups on Facebook and invited me in. Here and there, I received commissions of other breeds and honestly, I just feel very honored when asked. It’s such a personal request from a stranger, sometimes on the other side of the world! Love is always stronger, so I think it’s a good thing to be putting out in the world, and I really hope people feel that when they see my work. MaM : Of all the things to be putting out there in the world, love is where it’s at, for sure. We feel such tender love in your work. So, would you take us through your process when an idea strikes? MC : It is not very often that I draw my initial ideas on canvas or board to begin. Usually, I sketch out my concepts on paper first, refine them to exactly what I want, and then transfer them to the canvas or board using transfer paper. Art by Melanie Charlton Art by Melanie Charlton This avoids excessive erasing marks or muddying the paint, especially light colors with lead/charcoal. [It also avoids] creating a lovely sagging canvas. MaM : I sense some sarcasm there, ha ha. What are you currently working on, sans sagging canvas? (laughs) MC : Right now … I am actually working on the largest piece to date, which will be a wildlife Elk painting, 48 inches by 60 inches on a gallery-wrapped canvas, completed in oils. MaM : Wow. Nice. Are oils your preferred medium? MC : Oil paints are my favorite, as I find the layering can be infinite (good for correcting things), and they, of course, take longer to dry. I am really aiming for the Elk piece I’m working on right now to land between the real feeling[s] of being out in nature and in a dream, with deep vibrant color. Initially, I tried to paint with acrylics; however, they really limit the time you have with a piece because of drying times, and you really only get about three layers before they start destroying the piece. MaM : We’re sure your Elk piece will be stunning, and we can’t wait to see it! Your work embodies such warmth. It just embraces you as the viewer. We thank you so much for speaking with us. Before we go, we want to know: What are you currently watching? MC : I have to say, it has been a pleasure to answer your questions, and I also have to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the kind words about my work. MaM : Aw, well we mean every word! We’re glad you’re out there in the world sharing your gift with the rest of us. MC : For streaming things right now, we’ve been watching ‘Yellowstone.’ … I do like the unapologetic nature; however, I am huge fan of sci-fi and, of course, romance. Click here to see more of Melanie's work, or to have a piece commissioned, visit her online at www.CharltonFineArt.com . Then, connect with her on social media from her home page and show her some love! *images taken from artist website www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

A Nonconformist Sound < Back Unparalleled Talent and Personality: Subliminal Landmines Nicole Brice Feb 7, 2023 Share A Nonconformist Sound All musicians and bands draw inspiration from others, and often you will find hints of those influences scattered throughout their music. For Subliminal Landmines , though, their new sound hints at nonconformity and is one that is uniquely their own. If you like good, loud, punk rock, this band is for you. Taking a cue from Green Day , who are just one of their influences, these guys have solidified a solid line-up and continue to evolve as musicians and friends. Initially possessing a sound reminiscent of the Riddlin Kids , complete with catchy hooks and choruses, the sound of their new material takes on a harder edge with more of a skate/punk vibe . I was lucky enough to hear some of the new material, and I cannot wait until everyone else can check it out, too, because it is killer. Credit: Gary Governale Fronted by Grant Duhon on guitar with Chris Hayes on bass and Casey Bateman on drums, the men of Subliminal Landmines prove they are more than just another punk band. Each member brings an interesting dynamic and personality to the mix for a truly well-rounded listening experience best heard with the volume turned all the way up. The release of 2020’s Gibberish saw Subliminal Landmines forging their way into an over-saturated market during the height of COVID-19 but, truth be told, this album is distinct and unlike anything else out there. Official video for 'Where's My Coke' by Subliminal Landmines If I had to pick one vocalist to compare Grant’s sound with, I just can’t. Truly. In fact, the writer in me wants to bring you these snazzy descriptive words for him, but they escape me. His voice is smooth and edgy and just what you’d expect to hear in a punk band, but yet, does not sound like anyone else. He possesses a style all his own. Credit: Gary Governale Chris has more of the classic punk vibe going for him, complete with a bad-ass wardrobe and an even more idiosyncratic personality. He exemplifies what it means to be punk rock and, in his other life, owns Leviathan Studios, a tattoo shop in Baton Rouge, La., where he has inked more people than I have purses and shoes. With a flair for art and individuality, Chris possesses a strong stage presence and an even larger-than-life persona. Credit: Gary Governale Casey rounds out the band on drums, and this dude hits those drums so hard, you feel their vibrations through your clothes clean into your soul. He’s really good and oozes talent, not to mention he is a Veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. Props, my dude. Credit: Gary Governale I had the pleasure of hanging with these guys recently to talk about everything from music, influences, and sound to why Chris owns Twilight on DVD but refuses to watch it, and everywhere in between. A bad-ass, eccentric mix of classic punk rock is how I would describe Subliminal Landmines. Be sure to find their music and jam out as soon as you finish reading this article. You’ll thank me later. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : So, you guys formed in 2017, but you (looks at Chris) were NOT a part of that. Chris : Yes, formed in 2017, but the band has been around for a long time … We’re trying to push what we are doing now, and there have been several changes, but this is the core group now. MaM : Chris, I know you personally from working with you back in the day but give me a brief background on you for our readers. What’s your age? Chris : Do I have to give my real one? MaM : It would be nice, ideally. (laughs) Chris : I mean, I identify as, like 26, but … MaM : Well, you’re a couple years younger than me, and I’m 41, so … Chris : I’m, uh, 37. I’m a baby, remember? I’m a tattoo artist professionally, and I play bass in the band. Grant and I both sing. Hell, Casey sings now, too. It’s really a three-way entourage going on. MaM : Chris, who do you cite as your influence with your playing? Please don’t say Sid Vicious. (laughs) Chris : No, uh, singing-wise, yeah, we’re in the same range vocally. (laughs) It’s kind of a funny thing. A lot of the way I play, if you talk about it, like how I play bass … I started out getting into a lot of basslines from, like, Tool and then some more funky basslines like Gap Band and stuff like that, but that’s not how I play in this band. I bring more technical melodies to this band but more in that punk vein. I’d say as far as that vein of influences, it’d be more Hot Water Music, Alkaline Trio, and I don’t really know. MaM : Ok, let’s talk gear. What’s your favorite bass to play and what type of gear do you use? Chris : I’m a big fan of neck-through basses. That’s always been a thing for me. I always end up going back to an old 90s Peavey Unity neck-through body. I’ve had that since, like, the 6th grade, so over 20+ years. I’ve stripped it down, rebuilt it, and made it all my own. Most gear I try to customize it and make it my own. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Ok, so now, Grant, tell the readers a little about yourself. Grant : So, I’m Grant. I’m 27, and I’m unemployed. (laughs) Got fired on the 2nd day of this year, so I got to start my new year without a job. (laughs) MaM : Well, what were you doing before you got fired? Grant : I was managing a smoothie place in Carencro, La., and I had been working for them since college, but I did that for about four or five years, did the band, got married, and had two kids. I have a son who is two, and a daughter who is about to be one. MaM : So, you’re only 27? Chris : Oh yeah, I got a kid, too. MaM : I know you have a kid. (laughs) Chris : Well, I feel like an asshole if I don’t mention it since he mentioned his. (laughs) Grant : Yeah, so the world is kind of just open with opportunity right now, and I’m just trying to decide what I want to do. I kind of want to be more in the kitchen if I do something, like maybe be a chef or manage a kitchen or something like that. MaM : Go to school for that. Grant : Yeah, exactly. Culinary school. I just want to find something short term, though, to bridge the gap, but I’ve been playing guitar since I was eight years old. Self-taught, no lessons or anything. One of our main influences for me—and you can hear it in our music—is Green Day. Writing style, performance … [I] kind of just took some of that from them. ‘American Idiot’ is one of the first albums I heard by them when I was eight. MaM : Oh my gosh, that makes me feel old. Grant : I ended up, though, going back to listen to some of their older stuff, like ‘Dookie’ and ‘Nimrod’, but out of all of those that influenced me, it would be ‘Dookie,’ ‘Nimrod,’ and ‘Insomniac.’ Each of those albums has a distinct sound for the era they were in. I did listen to a lot of Hoobastank growing up, too, and my mom listened to a lot of Creed. MaM : Chris just made a funny face. Chris : I’m making all the freakin’ faces at Grant talking. Like, stop talking. (laughs) Grant : Just kind of saying what was around me as a child (looks at Chris ), but as I’ve gotten older, my choices have changed. MaM : Hey, we all went through a Creed phase. No judgement. (laughs) Don’t knock ‘em! Grant : I started writing my own songs at nine and even played in front of my 5th grade class with one of my friends, who played the drums. MaM : Wait, what did you guys play? Grant : So, we played some original songs I had written. Did that. As I turned 17, I was focused on college and didn’t play for a couple of years, but when I dropped out of college, I picked the guitar back up and then got the band started, which, 2017 is when the band really got started with me and my friend, Zack, who is now in the Marines, and I told him, ‘Dude, I really want to get a band going,’ and we walked around Lafayette and put up signs looking for a drummer and bassist and eventually, we found some people [and] time passed. [P]eople come and people go, and now we have the line-up we have currently. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What type of guitar do you prefer playing? Grant : I have a guitar that was a Christmas present—my first guitar when I was eight. It’s a knock-off Fender guitar that you buy from Guitar Center for $199. It has the white pick guard with the tan to black(ish) fade like a lot of the original Fenders have, and it has stickers plastered all over it. Chris : Cherry sunburst? Grant : Yeah, whatever color you’re looking for. That’s the one I used to play with, and it still works to this day, but what I’m playing with right now is an Ibanez that I took apart and kind of pieced together and made my own. It’s dark blue … new knobs, new bridge, got some locking tuners put on it. I would say it’s a Frankenstein guitar, but it’s new besides the body, so it’s not a bunch of used parts. That’s what I play with. Amp-wise I have a 4 x 12 Orange Cab I play with, and I have the Orange Crush Pro head for it. I don’t really use any pedals; I use a distortion Senders pedal and a tuning pedal. Keep it simple. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : So, (looks at Casey), tell me a little more about you. Casey : So, I am Casey Bateman. I’m 32. Grew up in St. Amant. Started playing music around the house because of my dad. I got my own drum kit when I was 12, which is the one I’m playing on today. I started percussion in middle school [and] played in the marching band, but when I got out of high school, [I] went into the Marine Corps and played in the Marine Corps band—played in that for four years. That’s where I learned drum set, percussion, and random things. Chris : Scalping? Casey : Yeah, scalping, too. (laughs) Sure. MaM : Much respect for your service, thank you. Casey : After that, I was in a bunch of random bands—cover bands. I guess the biggest one I was in was in Denver. It was a reggae band, which is really cool, because it was the only band I was able to play shows with in other states. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What would you say your musical influences are, as far as genre? Casey : Genre? Growing up I was into metal and rap. Eventually, I got my drum set and discovered Blink 182 and My Chemical Romance. I still love those bands, too. I was super into Travis Barker back in the day. MaM : (Us, too, Casey.) Too bad he had to marry a Kardashian, right?! Chris : They’ll be divorced soon. Only a matter of time. Casey : Like him, though, I try to be choppy, and I was inspired by that. I’m really into metal. Like the Acacia Strain and Hatebreed. I think I bring a Hatebreed-type of aggressiveness to my playing. Credit: Gary Governale Chris : I feel you bring a bit of the Creed and Hoobastank vibe into the band. Casey : (laughs) Yeah, I also play jazz drums. I play that around town and I’m actually in a jazz band called Florida Street Blowhards . They’re a bunch of old jazz heads and we just play some music every now and then, and I don’t exactly use those chops here with this band, but it’s fun. When I was in Denver, I actually played in the Denver Nuggets drumline for a while, and it was really fun. I did that for about three years and that inspired me to get back into music, [so] I started my music education degree, and I’m at LSU now, about to finish. I graduate this fall and will be finished by the end of the year. Chris : Wait, so Denver has a team called the Nuggets? Casey : Yeah, it used to be the Golden Nuggets. Not what you’re meaning. Chris : I mean, Colorado is, like, the top state for legalizing weed, so how appropriate they would name their team the Nuggets. (laughter) Casey : Their mascot was this, like, miner. Chris : Now it’s like a hippie? Looks like Jerry Garcia? (laughter) Casey : It’s quite convenient how that worked out. MaM : So, do you feel your fans have been receptive to your sound so far and with what you are trying to accomplish? Grant : I definitely feel that this past year they have been. The energy that Casey brings to the band is new, and then Chris and I are really finding our niche playing together. All three of us [are] synching up. The way crowds have reacted to us this past year has been way different than previous years. We’re more involved with them, but they’re more receptive with wanting to hear us play, and it’s a good feeling. Chris : You know what I just realized? Every single show we’ve had for the past year, like the past five or six shows, we’ve had the entire crowd go, ‘Uhhhh!’ (makes moaning noise). (laughs) MaM : Uh huh, and how did you manage that? Chris : We literally paused the song and hit the crowd with a, ‘Can I get a uhhhh?!’. (laughs) Grant : They usually all do it back. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : How would you describe your sound? I made a note about your music and that it sounds like Blink 182 with an edge. Would you agree with that? Chris : The last album we put out, I could agree with that, but with the new stuff we are doing, we’re moving away from that sound. MaM : So, what would you say you’re evolving towards with your current sound? Chris : I really couldn’t give you something to compare it to, off hand, but it’s just progressed more into an aggressive style. It’s got a heavier edge than before. We’re pushing faster, heavier, and more technical. MaM : So, you don’t want to be as poppy as before? Grant : We’re moving away from the pop punk. Chris : Yeah, we’re pushing away from the older music and moving towards the newer stuff we’re doing. MaM : If you could give me one band that your new stuff compares to, who would it be? Chris : It’s more in the vein of the skate/punk vibe or more traditional punk, like Pennywise . MaM : So, do you guys have any aspirations for the future? Do you want to do this full time, or do you want to keep it as more of a hobby? Chris : I’ve always looked at it as if you’re gonna play in a band, you need to approach it professionally, but we’re not making money at this. Any money earned is put back into the band. You know you can throw us some more risky questions, just saying. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Ok, so, what was this you said earlier about you being a movie buff who owns “Twilight” on DVD, yet you will NOT watch it? Why even spend the money? (laughs) Chris : ‘Cause it’s a movie and I collect movies, but people don’t buy DVDs anymore. Very few. They’re actually losing money on that. I’m buying it for the studios so they’ll keep making movies, but they just can’t keep making THAT movie. (laughs) MaM : Ok, well that leads me to … name one guilty pleasure band or artist that is in your music collection. Chris : Oingo Boingo. MaM : That’s not a terrible band. That’s actually a really good band. Chris : Oh, you mean that I don’t listen to? MaM : No, that you don’t want people to know you listen to. Like, if they saw it, you would be like, “That’s not mine. Someone put that there.” Chris : Honestly, I wouldn’t be ashamed of any of the music I listen to. I listen to weird shit. (laughs) I do have a lot of stuff that people would be surprised of, but nothing to be embarrassed of. I have shit like Patsy Cline and stuff. Grant : I kind of feel the same way, but I can’t pinpoint it to an exact artist. Chris : It’s easier for you because you own the newer Green Day albums. (laughs) Grant : I guess the later Green Day I can’t really get behind. (laughs) I do listen to it, though, but I don’t exactly enjoy it. (laughs) I guess, though, if I had to pinpoint an artist, then it would probably be NBA Youngboy. MaM : Can’t say I have any of that in my music collection. Grant : Like, I enjoy some of the stuff he has put out, but I can’t say that I listen to rap these days. MaM : Well, any closing words? Chris : You know how there is pull-apart monkey bread with the cinnamon on it? MaM : Yeah … Chris : Why don’t we just call it Simian rolls? (laughs) To check out all that is Subliminal Landmines , head on over to their various pages and listen NOW! New material coming soon, as they guys are currently mixing the new stuff. Stay tuned! Subliminal Landmines | Facebook Subliminal Landmines (@subliminallandmines) • Instagram photos and videos (195) Subliminal Landmines - YouTube Spotify – Subliminal Landmines Music | Subliminal Landmines (bandcamp.com) ‎Subliminal Landmines on Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Select Series to Check Out with Your Time Off < Back Holiday Binge Keeley Brooks Nov 23, 2022 Share Select Series to Check Out with Your Time Off If you read my recent article “Giggle ‘Til Your Heart’s Content,” hopefully you got some good recommendations to put on your list. No recommendation list is complete without film’s partner, streaming series. While there are plenty of new titles out there to watch (and our list of what released this month in our Stream This section), I figured I’d make it easy for you and give you some favorites to watch by category. So grab that blanket and settle in. You're welcome. ACTION Banshee – A 2013 Cinemax original series, this one is gorgeously shot and boasts extremely well-written characters wrapped in a fascinating story. Set in the small town of Banshee in Pennsylvania Amish Country, the show focuses on an enigmatic ex-con, who assumes the identity of the town’s local sheriff. Anthony Starr ( The Boys ) is a recently paroled master thief who assumes the identity of Sheriff Lucas Hood in Banshee, PA, where his former lover and, I must say, badass partner in crime relocated years ago and reinvented herself as Carrie Hopewell, the wife of the town prosecutor. Lucas attempts to reunite with Carrie and keep his past a secret, but then resumes his life of crime, even as he’s hunted by those he betrayed years earlier, including a mob boss who seeks revenge against Lucas and Carrie for the jewel heist that landed Lucas in prison. Also stars Ivana Milicevic, Tom Pelphrey ( Outer Range ), Hoon Lee ( Warrior ) and Frankie Faison (Marvel’s Luke Cage ). This series hands-down wins the award for Best Fight Scenes in a Series and for hosting some chicks who can both give and receive man-sized ass whoopins. With tomahawks and shit. Fights are so very real and bloody, they feel real. The entire story is so palpable, that you’ll find yourself just as drawn in as I was, and you’ll wind up binging it and wanting more. Streaming on Cinemax, HBOMax, Roku, Spectrum TV Kingdom – Frank Grillo ( The Purge movies) is Alvey Kulina, the owner of a mixed martial arts gym who trains a generation of fighters, including his sons Jay (Jonathan Tucker, Debris ) and Nate (Nick Jonas). Struggling to keep the gym afloat, the pressure is on for Alvey’s boys to come through before he loses everything. Features some fantastic drama, lots of MMA, and a very lovable Paul Walter Hauser ( Blackbird ). Also stars Matt Lauria ( Friday Night Lights ), Kiele Sanchez ( The Purge movies), and many other recognizable faces. Streaming on Amazon Prime COMEDY Resident Alien – A SyFy original, this one will have you giggling in every single scene. I love this show. Starring Alan Tudyk ( Rogue One ), who is one of the funniest men on the planet, plays an alien who crash lands on Earth and assumes the identity of extremely-small-town doctor Harry Vanderspeigle. His nefarious mission to kill all humans is threatened when he realizes one of the townspeople, a nine-year-old boy, can see his true alien form. Their relationship is hysterical and is one of the most loved aspects of the show. What starts out as a simple life gets rocky when he’s roped into solving a local murder and realizes he needs to assimilate into his new world and slowly begins to wrestle with the moral dilemma of his secret mission on Earth. Every relationship in this series will have you giggling and feeling great. Also stars Sara Tomko ( Journey to the Center of the Earth ), Alice Wetterlund ( Silicon Valley ), Corey Reynolds ( All American ), Levi Fiehler ( Glitch ), and Meredith Garretson ( Fosse/Verdon ). Streaming on Peacock Silicon Valley – This title you can find on HBO/HBOMax. A very funny series created by Mike Judge, it’s partially inspired by his experiences as a Silicon Valley engineer in the 1980s. This comedy follows the misadventures of introverted computer genius Richard (Thomas Middleditch) and his brainy friends as they attempt to strike it rich in a highly-tech gold rush. They live together in a Bay Area startup incubator loosely run by self-satisfied dot-com millionaire Erlich (T.J. Miller, Office Christmas Party ), who lets them stay in his house rent-free in exchange for a stake in the projects they invent there. But when Richard develops a powerful search algorithm at his day job, he finds himself caught in the middle of a bidding war between his boss, whose firm offers Richard an eight-figure buyout, and a deep-pocketed venture capitalist. Also features comedian Jimmy O. Yang, Zach Woods ( The Office, Avenue 5 ), Martin Starr ( Freaks and Geeks ), Kumail Nanjiani ( Chippendales ), and a slew of other talent. Streaming on HBO/HBOMax HISTORICAL DRAMA The Last Kingdom – Streaming on Netflix, this one’s a must-watch if you love Viking and Dane history. Five seasons follows the story of Uhtred, a Saxon child who saw his father and the Saxon army killed by Danes. That day, Danish warlord Earl Ragnar captured him and raised him in a Danish camp alongside fellow captive Brida, a sharp-tongued girl. Years later, he’s a valiant warrior who deals with another blow when his home is deliberately set on fire, killing his surrogate family, including his father-like figure Ragnar. Now exiled and alone, except for Brida by his side, Uhtred vows to avenge Ragnar’s death and reclaim his homeland. But he must choose between his birth country and the people who raised him, walking a dangerous path between the two sides if he is going to help birth a new nation and ultimately recapture his ancestral land. Stars a very sexy Alexander Dreymon ( American Horror Story ), David Dawson ( My Policeman ), Toby Regbo ( Reign ), and Emily Cox ( Jerks ). Streaming on Netflix Britannia – What started out as an Amazon Prime original was quickly acquired by EpixNow and is quite the hit. Set in 43AD as the Roman Imperial Army, led by General Aulus Plautius (David Morrissey, The Walking Dead ), invades Britain to crush the Celtic heart of Britannia. Determined to succeed where Julius Caesar failed, Aulus sets out to conquer this mythical land on the very end of the Roman Empire. Kerra (Kelly Riley, Yellowstone ), daughter of the king of the Cantii, is forced to put her differences with archrival Queen Antedia (Zoe Wanamaker, The Man Who Fell to Earth ) aside in order to unite the tribes and supposedly magical Druids and face their invaders. But General Aulus carries a secret that threatens to undermine the entire mission. Also stars Mackenzie Crook ( Pirates of the Caribbean ), David Bradley ( Harry Potter ), and Liana Cornell ( Wolf Creek ), and a host of other entertaining characters. Streaming on EpixNow HORROR/THRILLER Castle Rock, Season Two – A psychological-horror series set in the Stephen King multiverse that combines the mythological scale and intimate character storytelling of his works, weaving an epic saga of darkness and light played out on a few square miles of Maine woodland. Season Two has its own original storyline but is based on themes, characters, and ideas from King’s famous work, Misery . Lizzie Caplan stars as death nurse Annie Wilkes, years prior to Misery taking place. If you loved the movie, you’ll love this season of the series. Streaming on Hulu Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin – This title dropped on HBO/HBOMax several months back, and though I never watched Pretty Little Liars , I got sucked into this one. Rather different than the original series, this one follows a new generation of lying teens as they are stalked and tormented by a masked assailant. It has a surprisingly solid storyline and some pretty decent acting. I’d watch it again. Alright, my fellow content lovers. I hope you have an enjoyable holiday break full of good food and company and lots of good titles to stream. Enjoy. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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An intimate conversation < Back Vinnie La Bella David Trahan Apr 28, 2023 Share An intimate conversation To be painfully honest, excess seemed to be the goal of my life while growing up; the most booze, the most parties, the most drugs, the most women. Slowly, my life began to become the locust swarm. I existed to consume and move on, until I was satiated or unconscious. But somewhere along the way, my quest for quantity gave way to quality. Upon reflection, my past had become a misguided detour. And all those allies who shared in my crusade, liars. I began cutting people out in pursuit of the answers to unending questions. Who am I? What do I want out of life? Why are the things that I want and the things that I truly need always at odds? Looking back, although traumatic in nature, I believe this to be an integral part of growing up; maturation at its essence. Through our talks, I believe this to be the crux of Vinnie La Bella. But Vinnie La Bella consumed for a reason that would land him on stages in front of hundreds of thousands. He moved for what was to be an organism that would usher him around the globe. The desire, the intensity, and the results would maturate rewards and costs of epidemic proportions, leaving physical and moral values lying in limbo. Vinnie grew up in University City, a small neighborhood in Kenner, Louisiana bordering several suburbs and one veritable marshland. His father was a singer in a cover band that played mostly top 40 hits of the time. Being around musicians as far back as he can remember, the set-ups for practice, the camaraderie, and the grown banter were some of the appeals that drew him in. He can recall his father bringing home the Fandango! album by ZZ Top to learn a song and falling in love with that album. Between sneaking playtime with the guitar of his father’s bandmate, and classes in jazz theory, his love for guitar was solidified as early as eight years old. By the time he was eleven, he had learned enough to feel comfortable on the thing. It started to occur to him that this was something he could actually do for a living, perhaps in part, because of his father’s influence. But the mechanics of play had definitely become more familiar with time. And in time, nothing would move him more. His parents divorced when he was fourteen. And by age fifteen he was living with his mother on Hessemer Avenue in Fat City. Up until this point, guitar had helped to solidify a foundation between him and his father. So, to hear him tell it, his parents’ parting of ways didn’t really bother him. But he did, however, take advantage of his new digs. In the 80’s, Fat City was still a bustling neighborhood full of bars with live music. And at fifteen, Vinnie was beginning to establish roots of his own. Fat City would serve as a fertile medium to facilitate his growth; both as a young man and a budding musician. For all intents and purposes, Vinnie was a loner. With just enough people he called “friends” counted on one hand, he was resolved to explore the world on his own. This translated into a person that possibly grew up too quick. He would quit school early to become a hustler, and admits he may have squandered opportunities. A reckless lifestyle would prove a comfortable place for him to exist. And those who were there know Fat City could give you all you could eat. From where he lived with his mother, 17th Street was just a two-minute walk. “Now the walks to the bar were always nice and clean. The walks back got interesting. You know, I woke up in a few alleys along the way, ten o’clock the next morning. But that was the stomping ground”. Though stumbling at times through life, he always seemed to fall in the right direction. And even his vices would prove of value. Fat City is where he met Kirk Windstein (Crowbar). It’s where he met Phil Anselmo (Pantera, Down, Superjoint Ritual, Necrophagia, etc). It’s where he met Andy Villafarra and David Main, with whom he would go on to form Exhorder. Fat City is where he played his first show in a cover band called Sabotage. And it also served as the place where he would draw a line in the sand. But before his own assertions, he would need confirmation elsewhere; confirmation that his suspicions were correct. Speaking strictly from personal perspective I can tell you that there’s always been a voice inside my head. Maybe not so much a voice; it’s more like an inaudible message center. We’re all born with it in fact. In some, it’s just louder than in others. In our latter years, we learn of it to be the Id. It’s a part of the psyche, residing in the unconscious, that is the source of instinctive impulses. It wants nothing more than to be satisfied but is constantly modified by the ego and the superego before being given overt expression. It provides all of the energy for, and is the driving force of, personality. Unto itself, it has no organization. Being guided by his vices, seemingly falling in the right direction at times when his Ego or Superego would shine through, brought Vinnie to a defining moment in his life. Through this guiding force, Vinnie would often find himself venturing outside of the microcosm that was Fat City. One of those destinations was uptown New Orleans where hardcore and punk were prominent. This was a breeding ground for those that shunned society and smeared the edge. Sonic exploration was not only prominent. Here it was a prerequisite which fed Vinnie’s Id. “I remember walking out there for the first time, like, going to Jed’s. It was on like, Oak Street or Maple; right down the street from Jimmy’s Music Club. And that’s where they would have the punk and hardcore activity weekends. That was basically where we would all go. So, Circle Jerks played, Black Flag, I got to see all them bands… Dead Kennedys. And we would go over there and start hanging over there and noticing woah, this is a totally different world. Not only musically but, you don’t play cover songs out here. No band gets up there and plays a Black Flag song. You would probably get tomatoes thrown at you. You had to be an original thing offering something to the scene, being part of the culture, and growing”. This confirmed to him that the scene in Metairie really had grown stale. Metairie had the Ratts and the Poisons of cover bands. It had mostly become a hairspray haven where leotard clad man boys were chasing a path that had already been, by now, cliched. Punk and hardcore influenced thrash in metal. And cover bands influenced… nothing. On campus at Tulane University is a radio station, WTUL. And back then, on the weekends, it would host a metal night one evening and a hardcore night on the other. Vinnie would also venture out there to a basement where the radio station was housed, bearing any goodies he may have procured throughout the evening. Two brothers were DJs. And together with Vinnie and friends they would pass around records, discussing them and giving them a spin. These uptown experiences, at the radio station and at live shows, were the building blocks upon which Vinnie’s own first band was founded. It would be the Id, his Id, incarnate. It would be proof positive that a dissention from what had become the norm of his environment was not only in order. It was necessary to avoid furthering apparent necrosing. Things would come to a head one evening in the dressing room before a performance with his first band, ironically named, Sabotage. “I was basically given an ultimatum in that band. I was in the dressing room. We were about to play a show and I was thrown some garments. ‘Here, wear these tonight’. And when I looked at these garments I was like, I can’t go out there like this. And he said ‘well you have to or you’re out this band’. And I said well, I’ll be out this band then… tonight mother fucker. ‘Aight, aight well you don’t have to wear that’. So, that was the last show I played with them”. This wasn’t at all about cover bands. Vinnie respected cover bands. His father was in a cover band. At one time, he even subbed guitar for a cover band when he was asked to bail out a friend in need. He was handed a list of one hundred and fifty songs to learn with two weeks to learn them. But again, having seen what the hardcore scene was like, and knowing it was more the direction he wanted to move in, left him with little vested in what things had become. And ever the hustler, he would soon take members of that band with him. Establishing himself in a fishbowl of clones would not prove easy. Though he could see the gateway from his doorstep, anything west of New Orleans was just, not New Orleans. And Fat City was the fishbowl of not New Orleans. To become a deflection in this biosphere meant facing backlash. And staking one’s claim sometimes meant going on the offensive. “I was kind of frowned upon. And it caused a lot of beefs. I was an asshole man. And I would make fun of guys for doing it after a while because they were making fun of me for hanging out with the punks. So, it got to be a lifestyle kind of thing. You know, like I’m willing to whip your ass over this shit. That’s how deep we were into this. If you talked bad about Exhorder in the 80’s, you might not be around today talking about it. I’m serious. We were fucking assholes man”. The same guys that would say you’ll never make a dime doing that or the chicks will never listen to that were the same guys who would eventually break out of this redundant mecca. But latency meant they would have a new band to follow. In retrospect, Vinnie feels as though it would have behooved those people to pivot sooner than later. A lot of great talent was born out of the moment when they finally steered clear of mimicking the hair bands of that bygone era. But at that time, he felt as though he was defending his honor. At any rate, once he left that band and this scene, there was no turning back. Writing for Slaughter in the Vatican would start almost immediately, but with only Vinnie and Andy Villafara, it would be an arduous task. David Main would soon follow suit leaving Sabotage. And the better part of a year would pass while writing and securing a permanent lineup. But throughout it all and no matter what, hardcore music had entranced Vinnie. He would rather die than see himself end up where he was headed. Music and life had become synonymous. And both, in Vinnie’s eyes, were secondary to this alliance. Given his proclivity for extremes and his perception that Exhorder was more like a gang than a band, things would become violent at times. Being that the foundation of this band was forged in contrast to everything out there, opposition could be found everywhere; even within the band itself. “To be honest man, I wasn’t the only lunatic in the band. I mean, these guys were legitimate fuck-ups man. We were all fucking nuts. I got in a fight with my drummer over some bullshit, year one. I kicked his fucking door down. I ended up going to jail and doing community service. So that’s kind of how we started; out of just anger and violence. And we were taking it out on our instruments and just making a hell of a noise musically about it. After that little scuffle with Chris, him, Kyle, and David left”. This would be the first of several partings for Exhorder. And the band was still so new, to themselves as well as everyone else. This occurred in late 1987. Their very first gig was just the year before on Franklin Avenue in 1986. At this point in time, they had yet to finish recording the demos for Slaughter in the Vatican. The process of rebuilding would go on for a year. During that time, Jay Ceravalo (rhythm guitar) would enter the picture. At best, Jay was an aspiring guitarist. But Vinnie saw a bit of himself in Jay; the air of tenacity. So, he made a deal with him. Vinnie affirmed, “Bra, I’ll give you six months. If you can play this shit… and I will help you. I’ll come and show you. I will make you tapes and whatever you need. If you can do this shit you’ve got the job. And that’s when he got rid of his old lady, he quit his job and locked himself in a room. So, at the time it’s just me, Andy, and Jay trying to put some semblance of Exhorder back together”. Through this process, Jay would risk (and lose) most everything. He turned his back on a secure job with the city of Kenner, his parents kicked him out. Above all else, Vinnie recognized the loyalty and dedication and never forgot it. Sid Montz (Victorian Blitz, Crowbar, Valume Nob, Southern Isolation) would come in on drums about this time. But Vinnie still had to find a singer. One day in early 1989, Sid called Vinnie with some news. Vinnie recalls, “This is a good piece of history that I’ve never told anybody. But it’s important to where we land in this later. He (Sid) says listen man I talked to Phil (Anselmo). He’s not happy with his current situation. He wants to do something heavier and he can’t get the guys to get on board. So, he wants to come try out. So, I called him and said try out? There ain’t no fucking try out. You’re Phil. You can do this. You’re bad, you know? You’ve got the gig. Come home. He’s like no no no, I want to do it right. I’m going to fly in and try out. And I’ll come back and we’ll finish it. I said, ok. So, he came down and was as good as you thought he would be. I said I told you. You wasted your plane ticket. You got the gig! So, I put this mother fucker on an airplane right after rehearsal. He’s flying back to Dallas and he’s going home to quit Pantera. Now by this time Power Metal was the last thing they had released. The sound was still… the sound. So anyway, he’s in the air. I drive home from the airport. I walk into the house and the phone is ringing. I pick up the phone, it’s Kyle. I hadn’t heard from this mother fucker in a year. I haven’t seen him. I haven’t talked to him. He goes, hey man I heard you had Phillip in the room. I said what are you talking about? I haven’t talked to you in a year! How’d you know? He says, I wanna come back. I said he’s in the air right now! He’s going home to quit! So, I said dude let me call you back. I hung up the phone. I called up Jay and I said this mother fucker’s calling me. He’s like bro, it’s your call. So, I thought about it for a second, and I did the right thing. I said absolutely Kyle; come on home. We wrote these songs together. You’re the only mother fucker I can envision singing for this thing. I said, you got it. I just need to stop him (Phil) from fucking his own thing up. So, I said let me see what I can do. So, I called over there and Phil wasn’t upset or anything. He was actually pretty happy. He said ‘that’s good news. I’m disappointed because I really wanted to give it a go with you. But, I’m glad he’s back”. With Kyle back, Chris Nail would once again take over on drums. Anselmo would go on to record the famed Cowboys From Hell album with Pantera. And Exhorder would complete Slaughter in the Vatican, getting signed to Roadrunner Records. The what-ifs that ran through my head at this point in the interview came flooding in. But tumultuous times were not behind the band. The signing was merely a piece to a puzzle that was never quite complete. Sure, they had remained in New Orleans, besting the labels turning them down left and right claiming that they needed to get out of New Orleans in order to make it. And one must realize this was the 80’s. This was the Regan era where shoulder pads and rampant consumerism dominated the arena. Even when they were finally signed, their first album came out mischaracterizing them as a ‘brutal thrash band from the depths of the swamp in Louisiana’. Their propensity for violence was getting them thrown off tours. This was no help either. But they knew they were on to something good. And this all would open up the door for many more out the south; a region negated as illegitimate in the world of musical significance. Between inner band tensions and music business complications, by the time The Law was released in 1992, the group was more than worse for wear. Vinnie had a baby. Chris was getting married. None of them could hold one another together or ever align their ways with normative business practices. Passion holds no court with principals. Principals are societally based. And passion is otherworldly. Exhorder would once again disband. Make-ups and break-ups would be scattered throughout the coming years. A turbulent giant would be remitted to a twenty-seven-year recording dormancy. In 2017, through specifics not revealed, Vinnie and Kyle would reunite for the last time, culminating in Exhorder’s 2019 release entitled Mourn the Southern Skies. It would be produced and engineered at OCD Recording & Production by Duane Simineaux under Nuclear Blast, one of the world’s largest independent metal labels. It is by far, in my opinion, the greatest work ever to come from Exhorder. Which at this point housed only two of its founding members. It would also mark the last time Vinnie would ever play with the band he started. “We tried to put it back together a couple of times. This last time the table was set pretty good. We had a good shot and it was working. We ended up in a dispute as usual. And this time the only original guys left were me and Kyle. The dispute was basically between me and him. It was basically over two bullet points that he just couldn’t get past, and I couldn’t get past. And finally, I was like fuck it. Hey if you want it this bad bro, take it. But you’re going to get your wallet out this time. Because a lot of times they leave me sitting there with the bill”. He went on to point out, “It is of my opinion that he, at this particular moment, probably hates my fucking guts. He won’t say it in the media but he probably does. It’s my opinion. I could be wrong. But five years, seven years, eight years from now you know, who knows”. They were maturing in the midst of this all. Their needs changed over time. With only two founding members remaining, what was considered Exhorder had changed as well. “Whenever Exhorder would break up in the past, we would just lay it to rest. Nobody owned the trademark or the copyrights or anything to that name. It just sat there. And it would always sit there until most of us, or all of us, decided to do it again. And it was always home base for us. If we ever wanted to make something of that thing we built when we were kids, it was always there for us. And it started when I said… yes”. Vinnie reflected on the Phil Anselmo story here, citing it as a moment in time that should’ve reinforced a standing precedence for the band. When it came to Kyle’s desires to return, he didn’t mull it over. He simply said yes. But this time, through communications with his lawyer, he was confronted by a standing vote to oust him. The organism would no longer be the sum of its parts. These days, Vinnie remains deeply involved in music. He has established roots in production, and continues with recording and composition. Among his many projects, you will hear his work on Kirk Windstein’s upcoming second solo album, projected to be released possibly this fall. He went on to talk about that experience, as well the many projects that he’s currently involved in. You can hear this info first-hand and the details surrounding his life in music on our podcast by picking your streaming platform of choice below. Please be sure to subscribe, as this keeps our musicians’ names in the wind and gives our show a greater voice. As seen originally on: Neworleansmusicians.com Podcast: https://Neworleansmusicians.Podbean.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@neworleansmusicians Blog: https://Neworleansmusicians.com/blog www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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What's Hot and Streaming in March < Back A Whole New Crop of Shows Keeley Brooks Mar 3, 2023 Share What's Hot and Streaming in March Ahh, Spring doth approacheth, my friends, and with it comes an entirely new crop of titles to explore, and take it from me, March has A TON in store—so much, in fact, I couldn’t even list it all here for you. What I did do, though, is take some sweet time to compile the hottest titles worth exploring. Here’s what’s dropping over the next few weeks. Succession, Season 4 – The Roy Family drama finally returns for its fourth and final season, which will deal with the conflict of the sale of media conglomerate Waystar Royco and the effects it has on the Roy family and their personal relationships. And don’t forget that huge decision Shiv's husband Tom (Matthew Macfayden) faces: Will he side with his powerful father-in-law Logan in the battle for company control, or will he side with his wife, who is against selling the company? The power struggle between the Roy siblings has shaped their industry since the beginning and has left fans dying to know what will unfold and how it will all play out. Premieres March 26 on HBO and HBO Max. Perry Mason, Season 2 – After a three-year hiatus, Matthew Rhys ( The Americans ) is back in rare form as famous hard-drinking private detective turned crusading lawyer Perry Mason. Now under new management, we see the show moving fully into the law world. In this gritty origin story set in Depression-era Los Angeles, he’s both ornery and horny as ever as he works to find justice in a world where corruption has taken over. Premieres March 6 at 9 p.m. on HBO and HBO Max. Daisy Jones and the Six – Adapted from author Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel into a limited series, the story focuses on a successful rock band in the 1970s falling apart because of rocky relationships between some of its members—but no, it is not a biopic of Fleetwood Mac. Daisy Jones and the Six follows the band’s epic rise and fall, then picks up decades later when the Six finally reveal the truth about what really happened. Premieres March 3 on Prime Video. Chris Rock: Selective Outrage – In the platform’s first ever live-streamed event, Chris Rock takes the stage in this new stand-up special , sans any bitch slaps from Will Smith. Netflix will offer pre- and post-shows, featuring Ronnie Chieng, Leslie Jones, Deon Cole, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, JB Smoove, and Arsenio Hall. Airs March 4 at 10 p.m. on Netflix. Mae Martin: SAP – Also releasing a new stand-up special this month is Comedian Mae Martin, whom you might recognize from HBO’s The Flight Attendant or the Netflix series Feel Good . Premieres on Netflix March 28. School Spirits – This supernatural teen drama centers on main character Maddie, who finds herself dead and stuck in an afterlife limbo where she’s trapped in her high school. While no one else seems to be able to see her, she discovers a group of other teen ghosts also trapped at the school and they soon form a support group of sorts. As Maddie tries to solve her own murder, she must try to figure out a way beyond the limbo. Streaming March 9 on Paramount Plus. Murder Mystery 2 – Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston reunite as an ordinary couple who find themselves caught up in a thrilling investigation is this rom-com sequel to 2019’s Murder Mystery. They’re now both private detectives launching their own agency, who soon find themselves as the center of an international investigation when a friend is abducted. Streaming March 31 on Netflix. MH370: The Plane That Disappeared – Back in 2014, a plane with 239 people on board vanished into thin air from all radar. This docuseries delves deep into one of our greatest modern mysteries: Flight MH370. Lands on Netflix March 8. Rabbit Hole – A new spy series is here, if that’s your thing. Kiefer Sutherland is James Weir, a private espionage operative who finds himself in the midst of a battle over the preservation of democracy in a world at odds with misinformation, behavioral manipulation, the surveillance state, and the interests that control these extraordinary powers. Sneaks into Paramount Plus March 26. The Big Door Prize – A small town is forever changed in this comedy when a mysterious machine appears, promising to reveal everyone’s true potential. Soon, residents start changing jobs, rethinking relationships, and questioning long-held beliefs. Stars Chris O’Dowd ( Bridesmaids ). Premieres March 29 on Apple TV Plus. YOU, Season 4 - Part 2 – Part 1 of Season 4 aired a few weeks ago, then left us hanging after five episodes. I gotta say, this mid-way break in our shows is bullshit! There. I said it. The first half of Season 1 saw the murderous tables turned on Joe as he was taunted by a mysterious murderer offing people in a certain wealthy social circle. The “Eat the Rich” killer turned out to be charming author and aspiring politician Rhys Montrose (Ed Speleers, Outlander ), and now Joe has to figure out how to escape being framed for Rhys’s misdeeds while at the same time protecting his love interest, Kate. Part Two airs March 9 on Netflix. Waco: American Apocalypse – This immersive three-part docuseries is the definitive account of what happened in Waco, Texas, in 1993 when cult leader David Koresh faced off against the federal government in a 51-day siege that began with the biggest gunfight on American soil since the Civil War. The fiery inferno that ensued was aired live on national television to a nation of shocked, horrified viewers. Streaming March 22 on Netflix. Money Shot: The Pornhub Story – In the hopes of presenting a substantial dive into both the good and bad of the porn site, this film features interviews with performers, past employees, activists, and more. Pornhub is the internet’s most famous adult entertainment platform, because it fundamentally changed how porn is made and distributed. But for every bit of success they saw, there were also scandals. Many, many, many scandals. Airs March 15 on Netflix. Luther: The Fallen Sun – A continuation of the British television series Luther , this film stars Idris Elba in a crime thriller that sees disgraced police detective John Luther sitting behind bars for using illegal means to catch criminals. Haunted by his failure to capture the cyber psychopath who now taunts him, Lutherbreaks out of prison to hunt down the sadistic serial killer terrorizing London. Premieres March 10 on Netflix. Shadow and Bone, Season 2 – After two years, the fantasy series based on Leigh Bardugo’s books is finally returning to the Grishaverse. In Season 1, sinister forces plotted against a young soldier after she revealed a magical power that may unite her world. Of course, they bolt. Season 2 finds Alina and best friend Mal still on the run from the Darkling, General Kirigan. As the Sun Summoner, Alina can eliminate the Shadow Fold, the dangerous expanse of darkness that divides their kingdom, but Kirigan has gained more power and is a bigger threat than ever. In order to beat him, Alina and Mal travel to new lands in search of new allies. Premieres March 16 on Netflix. History of the World, Part II – Mel Brooks reportedly never actually intended to make a sequel to the 1981 smash hit History of the World, Part I . The title itself was meant to be a joke, yet here we are 40 years later on the cusp of a sequel. Brooks gave Nick Kroll his blessing to continue the film that spoofs different events from history, and you will see Brooks acting and credited as a writer. This sensational cast features Seth Rogen, Taika Waitit, Josh Gad, Ike Barinholtz, Wanda Sykes, Danny DeVito, Quinta Brunson, David Duchovny, Sarah Silverman, Johnny Knoxville, and Sam Richardson, to name a few. The four-night anthology event series is set to explore satirical versions of an array of historical figures, like Noah of the Ark, Sigmund Freud, and William Shakespeare. Premieres March 6 on Hulu, with two new episodes premiering every following day until the finale on March 9. UnPrisoned – This half-hour dramedy is a dysfunctional family sitcom focusing on the struggles that former prison inmates have when the time comes for them to readjust to modern society and reconnect with their friends and families. Kerry Washington ( Scandal ) plays Paige, a single mother and therapist who undergoes a dramatic life change when her father, Edwin (Delroy Lindo, Gone in Sixty Seconds ), is released from prison. Now living with his daughter and grandson, he must find a way to reforge the bonds he once had with those he loves. Season 1 drops March 10 on Hulu. Boston Strangler – Led by Oscar-nominated Kiera Knightley ( The Imitation Game ), this true-crime thriller follows a reporter for the Record-American newspaper, who becomes the first journalist to connect the Boston Strangler murders. As the mysterious serial killer continues his spree, journalist Loretta McLaughlin (Knightley) and her colleague and friend Jean Cole (Carrie Coon, The Sinner ) find themselves hindered by the rampant sexism of the Sixties. Nevertheless, they bravely pursue the story at great personal risk to uncover the truth. Arrives on Hulu March 17. Great Expectations – This Tom Hardy-produced series of the Charles Dickens’ classic novel is once again adapted for the screen, this time by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight. The coming-of-age tale focuses on Pip, a poor orphan who years for a better life. He is chosen to visit wealthy, eccentric spinster Miss Havisham (Olivia Colman, The Crown ), then meets and falls for her beautiful but cold adopted daughter Estella. Wanting to become a gentleman to win her over, Pip is thrilled when he receives funding from a mysterious benefactor, but his fortune is short-lived when the truth about his inheritance is revealed. Episodes one and two air March 26 on Hulu, with a new episode premiering every following Sunday until April 23. Yellowjackets, Season 2 -This addictive blend of mystery box thriller, survival drama, and coming-of-age tale returns and has a new cast member in tow: everyone's favorite hobbit Elijah Wood. The first season saw an endless spiral of theories about what really happened in the 90’s timeline when the high school girls’ soccer team crashes and is left stranded in the wilderness. Ritualistic cannibals, anyone? The present-day timeline is a consuming exploration of the survivors’ psyches, and you can absolutely expect dynamic performances from Melanie Lynskey ( The Last of Us ), Christina Ricci ( Wednesday ), and Juliette Lewis ( Natural Born Killers ). Premieres Friday, March 24 on Showtime. Extrapolations – In the near future, the effects of climate change have become embedded into people’s everyday lives. Eight interwoven stories explore the intimate, life-changing choices that must be made when the planet is changing faster than the population. Stars Meryl Streep, Sienna Miller, Kit Harington, Diane Lane, Edward Norton, Tobey Maguire, and Forest Whitaker, among other A-listers. Drops March 17 on Apple TV Plus. Ted Lasso, Season 3 – Get ready for all the feels this season as Jason Sudeikis returns as head coach of British soccer team AFC Richmond. Despite their advancement to the Premier League at the end of season two, all is not well. Coach is still battling anxiety on the field, and everything everywhere is still going wrong. Nate turned traitor to side with Rupert Mannion, and the flames of the weird love triangle with Roy, Keeley, and Jamie are still burning bright. Season 3 is rumored to be the final season of the series (though spinoffs seem possible), so have your Kleenex ready to wipe away your tears and snot through all the laughs. Returns March 15 on Apple TV Plus. Lucky Hank – Man, Better Call Saul left a gaping hole in our hearts when it ended last year, but there’s hope Bob Odenkirk’s new dramedy will be a worthy consolation. Based on Richard Russo’s novel “Straight Man,” the story centers around grumpy and “difficult” William Henry “Hank” Devereaux Jr., chairman of the English department at the fictional Railton College, as he navigates a mid-life crisis. He consistently finds himself involved in irritating situations, from an encounter with an aggressive goose to a public call-out for belittling students. Oh, and his wife is ready to move on, with or without him. Premieres March 19 on AMC and AMC+. The Mandalorian - The long-awaited thrid season brings more space adventures for Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his adorable sidekick Grogu. Now free from Moff Gideon (Giancarlo Esposito), Djarin is returning to Mandalore to seek forgiveness for breaking his people's core tenants by removing his helmet. Meanwhile, Grogu's Jedi training is on hold, and a bigger threat looms as Bo-Katan Kryze (Katee Sackhoff) lusts after that Darksaber. Now streaming Wednesdays on Disney Plus. Tetris – While video game shows and movies ( The Last of Us, Uncharted ) have been direct adaptations, Tetrisis more about how the iconic and obsessively popular game was made. Taron Egerton ( Black Bird ) stars as game publisher Henk Rogers, who risked it all to sign a deal for Tetris. Egerton has spoken publicly on how the film will have a tone similar to that of The Social Network , and the film promises to be so full of nostalgia and drama it could turn out to be the best movie you didn’t know you needed to see. Premieres March 31 on Apple TV Plus. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Pure energy, speed, and catchy lyrics < Back VOID: Lafayette’s Answer to the Modern Thrash Metal Scene Je'an-Paul Keller Jul 9, 2023 Share Pure energy, speed, and catchy lyrics Coming up August 19, 2023 , Louisiana’s own metal masters VOID are set to perform at Rad Fest 2023 at PARC International in Lafayette, Louisiana , and they are the first in our installment of interviews with all the acts on the bill. These guys are the new face of heavy metal and if you’re not familiar with them yet, you soon will be. The five-piece powerhouse of thrash metal goodness known as VOID formed in Lafayette, Louisiana, in 2019 by the Davenport brothers, Jackson and Logan, who grew up loving bands like Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Anthrax, to name a few. I truly went into the void when I listened to their debut album Horrors of Reality . It’s pure nostalgia and an excellent nod to the mid-to-late 80’s thrash metal days of the past—Jackson guitars and Marshall amps that punch through your ear drums straight to your brain. The current line-up is Jackson Davenport (vocals), Gabe LeJeune (guitar), Logan Davenport (bass), Alex Bernard (guitar), and Aaron Landry (drums). Credit: Chad Besse Everything about this band is pure energy and speed, with catchy screaming lyrics that will make you think, make you laugh, or make you get lost in your own mind; either way, VOID’s music will leave you wanting more. These guys almost incite a riot every single night they take the stage due to the intensity of their shows, and they love interacting with their fans. Ready to emerge from the Louisiana metal scene and take the world by storm, VOID is like a pack of hungry sharks and is quickly gaining local and national attention. Tearing up the Gulf Coast with their in-your-face riffs, ripping dueling leads, melodic harmonies, tasteful bass lines, and fast and precise drumming, VOID is a band you need to check out now . Not to mention, they have insanely visual music videos. Official Video for 'Voodoo' Currently on tour with Labyrinth and Life on Mars , I recently caught up with Jackson and Lily Shea, the band’s photographer and videographer, to rap about who they are, their live videos, and what the future holds for them. Here’s your chance to get to know a little more about VOID , then afterwards, be sure to catch them at Rad Fest 2023 in August. MaM : I’ve been listening to your album for the last two days and I really like it. The thrash metal sound totally brings me back to my childhood and growing up in the eighties. Jackson : Awesome, man, I appreciate that. MaM : Who or what has inspired your sound? Jackson : We formed back in 2019, and we were very driven by Black Sabbath, weirdly enough. We wanted to play stuff like Black Sabbath but heavier. Then, over the years, we [went] through a few different line-up changes, and we found thrash metal. You know, coming out of the big four, we found bands like Exodus, Testament, and Forbidden. I think those three bands are very big inspirations to us and still are with the music that we write today. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Awesome. I actually thought you guys sounded a lot like Anthrax, MEGADETH, old school Metallica, and old school Slayer. Jackson : Those are definitely sources of inspiration as well. Whenever we started playing thrash, we wanted to be Metallica so bad, and then we kind of just grew out of that and found the better stuff, I guess. I mean, I still got [sic] love for Metallica, but that’s basically where it all came from, I guess. MaM : What would you say influences you to make music? Jackson : Music is a way for me, and I speak for all the guys, and I say this, but it’s a way for us to basically escape from our problems and stress and get together and work on something as a team to make something awesome that we’re all proud of. So, we always look forward to writing new music, because it gives us an excuse to go out and work as a team and create something. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Can you tell us a little more about how your band initially came together? Jackson : It started with me and two buddies. We were jamming some old Black Sabbath songs in the garage and were like, “DUDE, let’s start a band,” and we did. We all had musical differences, though, and kind of parted ways after that initial jam session, but the name VOID and the idea just kind of stuck with me and I ended up finding the people that had the same vision I had, and we just kind of started it from there. MaM : Love the name for the band and was wondering if you could give us a little background info on it? Jackson : So, it actually goes back to the whole Black Sabbath thing. We worshipped Black Sabbath and wanted to play music like that. We were playing at a party a long, long time ago, but we didn't have a name and decided on VOID because of “Into the Void” and the whole Black Sabbath imagery thing. It just kind of stuck. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : I love your sound and your tone. What mic do you use? And whenever you generate your voice, what kind of vocal exercises do you do beforehand? Jackson : I'm the worst person to ask about this, but usually I'm using a Shure SM 58 for vocals. For other shows that are more like DIY, I have this one vocal mic that belongs to our drummer that I like to use. I cannot think of the name right now. I make sure I drink a lot of water with honey in it, too, because that helps. I'll run through scales with my voice, too, before shows and usually it helps lubricate my throat. MaM : I’ve noticed your fans like to join you on stage sometimes at shows. How does that make you feel? Jackson : It's awesome, dude! It's so cool, man. Makes me feel like all our hard work is paying off when people sing our songs with us. MaM : Your whole look and your music videos and images are quite unique. Will you shed a little light on the inspiration behind some of the videos you guys have done? Lily Shea : It has become second nature to have my camera out all the time because I never know when I'm gonna strike gold, but the music videos are just such a blast and everything we do is impulsive. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Was the video for “Voodoo” shot at a real cemetery or on a studio set? Jackson : It was shot at Fright Trail in Scott, Louisiana, which is almost like a haunted house attraction because it's all woods and creepy. MaM : You guys did a bad-ass cover of Megadeth’s “Sweating Bullets.” Is there a particular reason you decided to cover that song? Jackson : We've only played that song maybe two or three times and it was because at a jam practice one time, I started singing the words “sweating bullets” in a Dave Mustaine-sounding voice and then we discussed playing it. We initially ran through it as a joke, but it sounded kind of cool. We played it for the next few shows after that until we got tired of it. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Can I ask how tagging Snoop Dogg for the “Feeding Frenzy” video came about? Jackson : We are so stupid and think that we're so funny. “Feeding Frenzy” was a brand-new song at the time, and when I was typing out the captions for the video, I asked the guys in the band what else should I put. ‘Is that all that I should put?’ Someone in the band mentioned tagging Snoop Dogg, so I put in the captions, “Everybody tag Snoop Dogg,” and I got so many comments tagging him because of it. Snoop never did see the video, but I’m sure he would have loved it. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : What does the future hold for VOID? Jackson : Right now, we are working on a new single. We want to put out new music by August or September as a refresh for our fans. We probably won't do another full length for about a year or so, but we are also in talks with some big-name bands to play shows, too, so we’ve got quite a bit coming up. To experience VOID for yourself, be sure to check out one of their links below, and don’t forget to catch them at Radfest in August! • VOID • | Instagram, TikTok | Linktree Void | Spotify *cover photo courtesy of Chad Besse Je’an Paul Keller is a member of the 501st Legion and a huge sci-fi nerd. He’s also a HUGE music lover and is very passionate about drawing, sketching, painting, and making cosplays and movie-accurate costumes. The force is strong with this one. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Coming together to celebrate the summer solstice < Back Festival of Litha Returns to Downtown Florence in June Keeley Brooks May 18, 2023 Share Coming together to celebrate the summer solstice Summer is right around the corner, and with it comes all of those highly anticipated festivals full of food, fun, music, and crafts. Returning to downtown Florence, Ala., for the third consecutive year is the increasingly popular Festival of Litha, hosted by Hesperia Mystic Shoppe out of Sheffield, Alabama. Last year, the festival was held in Wilson Park in Florence and featured dozens of local vendors and live music over the course of three days. This year, the event will feature close to 80 vendors and will be held on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at a new location: The Historic Sweetwater Depot located at 502 S Royal Avenue in downtown Florence. “I have felt drawn to this historic area of Florence,” says Hesperia owner Kendall Gilchrist, “and I am happy to introduce an event to bring more attention to this side of town that holds cute little restaurants.” The festival is a FREE family friendly event that runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and locals are invited to come out and enjoy some great food, local arts/crafts/goods, and live music by local and surrounding-area musicians. courtesy of Hesperia Mystic Shoppe Litha (pronounced Lee-tha) is the celebration of the summer solstice and the beginning of Summer, which occurs this year on Wednesday, June 21. It has been a celebration amongst many cultures for many, many years but its origins are rooted in Celtic lore. Litha is said to be a time to celebrate the power of nature and its fertility, as the solstice represents the transition from action to nourishment, which is exactly what the sun gives us during the long nights of Summer. Even in those who do not mark the summer solstice, there is an internal flame within when the days get longer, and the sun leads us through better times. By celebrating the sun and the power it provides to all nature, humans are spiritually ignited and thus connected to its life force. For those familiar with the Eastern concepts of yin and yang, the solstice is a time of maximum yang—the longest day of the year. “This year,” says Gilchrist, “people can expect more of a market feel with bits of entertainment for both adult and kids alike. There will be food, live music, and a bar inside the Depot where you can cool off. We currently have around 80 vendors this year—such growth from around 25 in previous years!” courtesy of Hesperia Mystic Shoppe Vendors will be placed inside and outside The Depot, with many vendors selling metaphysical-themed arts and crafts as well as candles, bath and body goods, jewelry, books, and so much more. “I've always been community-driven, I just couldn't figure out for a long time what I could do to bring together like-minded individuals and support small businesses like myself,” adds Gilchrist. “It feels good to see others succeed in doing something they love, and I get to witness that at each festival I do now. I'm happy to support these local vendors as they have supported me in so many ways. I hope each of my vendors gain more and more confidence in what they do because some have never had their craft out for the world to see. There are such beautiful, talented, gifted crafters and creators in this area! I'm so glad I can provide a safe space for them.” As far as the music goes, this year will feature live performances from jazz/funk/blues/rock multi-instrumentalist Charles Brooks, singer/songwriter Bryson Bishop, and pop-rock duo Thrice Sovereign. Charles Brooks (by Rachel Neal), Bryson Bishop (social media), Thrice Sovereign (by Amanda Chapman) Kicking off the live music at 4:30 p.m. will be Dr. Charles Brooks , UNA Entertainment Industries professor and a multi-instrumentalist across a slew of genres. He is most known for his wicked four-mallet jazz vibraphone skills, but he is also a classically trained percussionist who plays drum set, piano, hand drums, synth keytar, and acoustic guitar, to name a few. For Litha, he’ll be rocking faces off with the synth keytar as heard below in this year’s Black History Month tribute to Stevie Wonder. For more on Charles Brooks, visit www.TheCharlesBrooks.com . Bryson Bishop will take the stage at 5:30 p.m. He is a Shoals-area singer/songwriter who will keep you entertained with some of your favorite covers from artists like James Brown, Michael Jackson, and so many others, and you might just hear an original song or two in his mix. To check out Bryson's beautiful singing, visit him on Facebook and Instagram . courtesy of Bryson Bishop Music social media Up next around 6 p.m. will be Florence-area singer/songwriter Aaron Dean . courtesy Aaron Dean social media And closing out the music for the evening at 6:30 p.m. will be Thrice Sovereign , a Florence-based pop-rock female duo comprised of multi-instrumentalist Kristen Borden Talcott and singer/songwriter Amanda Lee Borden Talcott, who recently released their title single from their debut album “Waiting to Thunder.” Their songs are groovy tunes composed in a popular style that draws on heavy guitar riffs and the fat, distorted sounds of hark rock with artistically relatable lyrics. You certainly won’t want to miss the energy! For more on them, visit www.ThriceSovereign.com . Festival of Litha isn’t all Gilchrist has in the works for this. year, though. On Tuesday, May 23, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Hesperia Mystic Shoppe and Lava Room will partner to host Brooklyn-based goth-folk musical duo Charming Disaster with a pop-up shops experience full of metaphysical items in downtown Florence on Mobile Street in support of the band. The duo will perform from 8-9:30 p.m. inside the Lava Room, and blue-cup cocktail drinks will be served alongside a delicious menu. You can even take the blue cups out onto Mobile Street to accompany you in your shopping. Charming Disaster will also be selling their merch after the show. Says Gilchrist, “Overall, it will just be a fun evening to get out midweek and take a break from it all!” So, mark your calendars, people in the Shoals area! The Charming Disaster Pop-Up Shops Experience happens Tuesday, May 23, from 6-10 p.m. at the Lava Room , and Festival of Litha happens Sunday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There’s even a new Halloween festival coming this year, courtesy of Kendall Gilchrist and Hesperia Mystic Shoppe, but you’ll have to stay tuned for that. I promise to bring you everything you need to know about Samhain Horror Night closer to October! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

Yes Fest is Saturday, October 15, 2022 < Back Empowered to play Yes Fest 2022 Nicole Brice Oct 3, 2022 Share Yes Fest is Saturday, October 15, 2022 Baton Rouge natives and Christian Rockers, Empowered are set to take the stage at Yes Fest 2022 along with 7eventh Time Down, Kari Jobe + Cody Carnes, Riley Clemmons, Phil Joel, Ryan Stevenson, and others. Empowered is comprised of Benny DiChiara (lead vocals and songwriting), Shane Madere Jr. (lead guitarist, backing vocalist), Jeff Maddox (bass and background vocals), Mic Capdeville (percussion and background vocals), and Justin Burdette (guitarist and background vocals). Their new EP drops via Slingshot Records on October 7, 2022 and is titled "Yahweh-Nissi". To check them out, visit their Youtube channel. Yes Fest is open to everyone and there will be food, drinks, carnival rides, children's activities, tailgating, volleyball, and corn hole tournaments. For more information: www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

She Might Be a Beast unleashes the raw power of Neo-Grunge with their latest album, “Art Class” < Back She Might Be a Beast: An Enigma of Youth, Retro Vibes, and Energy Erica Machen Nov 29, 2023 Share She Might Be a Beast unleashes the raw power of Neo-Grunge with their latest album, “Art Class” She Might Be a Beast, hailing from the melting pot of eclectic music that is New Orleans, La., electrifies listeners with their unique Neo-grunge sound. The band is comprised of the Brezinsky brothers, Jake and Julian, alongside John Williams. Jake is the lead vocalist and guitarist, with Julian on bass and back-up vocals, while John bangs on the drums. They infuse their music with a blend of 90s-inspired grunge, punk, and metal, dashed with that distinctive NOLA spice. The trio's live performances are nothing short of exhilarating, which can be found all over their YouTube page. As a matter of fact, I was excited to interview them after just a few minutes of video watching. Following our chat, I am beyond motivated to catch a live performance. It doesn’t hurt that sharing the stage with iconic acts like Doyle from the Misfits and Powerman 5000 is propelling their rise in the local music scene, and their fan-base is gaining momentum. “ Art Class ” is the latest album from She Might Be a Beast, and it reveals their unwavering commitment and adeptness in showcasing their distinct Neo-grunge style that continues to bewitch their listeners and audiences. Released August 1, 2023 Their creative process is dynamic, with instrumentals and lyrics converging into powerful compositions at the band’s creative hub called "The Maze". That’s where spontaneous jam sessions become the breeding ground for evolving riffs and energizing lyrics that can transform into future hits. The band's future is brimming with excitement, with an upcoming single set to pump us up. They have a drive to provide unforgettable experiences through their music that sets them apart and makes way for an engaging journey ahead. With that being said, She Might Be a Beast's passion and exceptional talent have promise for lasting impact on the music scene. Keep an eye out for their next performance and be prepared, because they ARE a beast! Check out our conversation! MaM : Hey guys, thanks so much for speaking with me today. I have Jake, Julian, and John, correct? Jake : That’s right! We’re pretty excited for the interview! MaM : Cool, so am I! Since our readers are getting introduced to She Might Be a Beast today, and all three of you are here, how about each of you give a brief self intro? Jake : All right. Sounds good. I guess I'll go first. I'm Jake. I sing lead vocals, and I play guitar … And, yeah, I really enjoy playing in our band. I do a lot of the management for the band as well. I couldn't do it without Julian and John. John : What's up? I'm John. I'm a drummer, of course. What can I say? We got good thing going here. We’re really motivated with a level head and a lot of good and interesting material, from our writing to our live shows. Things have been moving forward and progressing, and we’ve really been putting in a lot of work. Julian : And I'm Julian, bassist and mostly harmony. It's such an awesome thing, being able to play music and do it, you know, semi-professionally right now. That's the dream, you know. So, we're having a great time! MaM : Jake and Julian, y'all are brothers, right? SMBAB : That’s right. MaM : John, how did you come into the mix? John : They had another drummer prior to me. He had some complications in his life and kind of wanted to take [a break from] music for a little bit. I met Jacob when he was still in another band called Everyday Addiction. [He] and I met up before the rehearsal, jammed in my space, and got pretty cool with each other. We kept each other's contact information, and once the other drummer decided to take a break, he called me. The next thing you know, I auditioned with them, and I was in the band. Credit: Facebook MaM : Awesome! Sometimes it just falls into place like that. Please, go on … John : Oh, yeah, it was a nice little thing how it happened. But, ya know … MaM : Y’all hit me out of nowhere with a blast of nostalgia coupled with some New Age sounds. How did you find your sound? Tell me about your influences. Jake : Well, we all love rock and roll, and some of our favorite bands are Alice in Chains, Green Day, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers. We also mix that kind of heavier grungy metal vibe with the music that we've grown up with. You know, we are all born and raised in New Orleans, so there’s a dash of NOLA spice in there. We see our music as a mix of punk rock, 90’s grunge, metal, and then, like I said, that little dash of NOLA funk. MaM : I feel that! I immediately heard Green Day as one of your influences when I checked you guys out. I kind of even felt some 311 vibes in your instrumentals, with an STP edge. I even heard a little Brandon Boyd (Incubus) with you, Jake, in your vocals. Do you all get compared to other bands often? Julian : Yeah, people tell us all the time … that we sound just like whomever from the 80s or 90s, but it’s always a different band in every show that someone says we sound like. Some nights we get Alice in Chains, and the next weekend we hear Green Day. Credit: Facebook MaM : Do you find it flattering or are some of the comparisons confusing for y’all? Julian : I like it. I mean, if it was just one band all of the time we got compared to, I feel like it would get old. With the variety, sometimes I hear a band that I never even really knew I was very inspired by, but the connections were there. MaM : Tell me about She Might Be a Beast’s peaks and valleys through the industry so far? Jake : I feel like that's a good question for me, because I deal with a lot of the management and reaching out for booking and stuff. We've had a lot of support through a lot of the people we've met in this industry, and the community is really one of the biggest things that propels us to the next level. With that being said … 95% of the people that I reach out to will definitely ignore me. It's just something that happens, but that can't stop you. [Eventually] we started getting onto bigger shows where we’re opening for more famous people. … We actually opened for Doyle, who is the guitar player for the Misfits. Credit: Facebook MaM : What performance that y'all have done so far spoke to y'all? John : We’ve done a couple of House of Blues shows, and this placed called Southport Hall. We played a gig on a Monday night; I believe it was for a band called Cynic. They had a lot of fans there, especially that show, for the opening act. It's kind of a blessing whenever your fan base is semi-growing and starting to get established, but you don't really have to rely on your fans showing up with everyone at that show. You can gain new fans from playing for other people. MaM : How do you get so much energy going before you play? How do you shake the nerves and bring the same intense level every time? Jake : Well, we do really love to jam. It's what keeps us doing this. It's what started us doing this in the first place, and we get really excited playing our music. You're only on stage for a lot of these shows for maybe 30 minutes to an hour. So, we want to leave everything on the stage and give the fans the best, best show possible. They're paying for these shows. So, we want to give them all the energy. We want them to go to sleep thinking about the show and wake up and talk to their friends about how much fun they had. Credit: Facebook MaM : It truly looks like y'all are accomplishing that! So, with things like the pandemic, AI infiltration, and even social media algorithms directly impacting artists and bands, how do you stay motivated to keep pushing through all of that? Jake : You know, that is an interesting one, because it seems like every single day there's another AI to steal somebody's job doing the things a lot of creatives have done for a long time. At the same time, that AI can do some pretty impressive things, there's just no way for AI to replicate human soul and music in writing and stuff like that. I think there's always going to be something special about the human mind and heart when they're putting themself into a piece of work. You know? Credit: Facebook MaM : Absolutely, and you can't match that human experience. So, I am going to ask you my favorite question now. Just hear me out: What came first the chicken or the egg? SMBAB : Um … What do y'all think? I don’t know, the egg. I think it would have to be the egg, for sure. MaM : That’s my cheeky little way to ask you about your writing. SMBAB : There it is! (laughs) Julian : It’s different because there are lyrics that we will hold on to. If you come up with something that you really find to be a good lyric, you hold it. But then we’ll come up with instrumentals separately and pair them sometimes. Most of the time, because we are all heavy on improvisation, we’ll just be in the jam room together and come up with a riff. Usually, the riff comes first when we're playing together, we come up with a song, and the lyrics are usually added after. But like we said, sometimes those lyrics could have been saved from before. We are a musician’s band, so we love playing the instruments … totally playing chronologically like that—writing the riffs and the lyrics all in the same day. Credit: Facebook MaM : What are you currently working on? Jake : We just released our full-length album, ‘Art Class’, and we’re really happy with that. At the same time, we do have a few new songs we've been playing live and a few even newer ones we're trying to write at the same time. So, I think next for us, when it comes to the music, we're going to be releasing a single. It’s going to be called ‘Walk with Me’, and it’s a really, really high energy, exciting rock song. We’re told all the time that people have a lot of fun when we play that song. MaM : Very cool. Well, guys, congrats on the release of “Art Class”, and thank you guys for a dope interview! I appreciate your time! SMBAB : And thank you so much! *cover photo from Facebook For more on She Might Be a Beast, visit them online at www.SheMightBeABeast.com . Erica Machen is a beast when it comes to consuming, writing about, and reviewing music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. < Back Reviews on the Real: Escape Your Fate by Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Sep 9, 2025 Share Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. Released on September 5, 2025, ' Escape Your Fate ' makes a thunderous entrance, showcasing the strong alternative rock sound that Caustic Waves is becoming known for. This head-nodding track is filled with fuzzy guitars and a captivating groove. It’s truly impressive that Neil handles all the instruments and recordings himself for Caustic Waves . He is a remarkable Renaissance man . Released September 5, 2025 As a standout act, Caustic Waves is steadily building a reputation with their distinctive take on alternative rock , tailored for a new generation. They aren't just playing alternative rock; they are redefining it for an audience eager for something authentic. Neil’s voice, echoing shades of Brandon Boyd from Incubus , serves as the heartbeat of ' Escape Your Fate ,' providing the song with a timeless yet contemporary energy. One notable aspect of Neil’s compositions is that there is no build-up; each song kicks off with energy right from the start. The phrase “Trapped in a cage, there is no escape” resonates in my mind as I reflect on ' Escape Your Fate ' further. Around the 2:15 mark, an incredible guitar solo elevates the song to a new level, paving the way for Neil’s vocals to soar back in, continuing the strong lyrics and message. The official video for 'Escape Your Fate' by Caustic Waves ' Escape Your Fate ' showcases Neil at his best, blending his Boyd-like vocal grit with Caustic Waves’ heavy alt-rock energy, all delivered with undeniable conviction. Stream ' Escape Your Fate ' now and get ready for the full EP release in October. I know we can't wait for that! To learn more about Caustic Waves: Spotify: Caustic Waves | Spotify Bandcamp: Music | Caustic Waves YouTube: CAUSTIC WAVES - YouTube Apple Music: ‎Caustic Waves - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Alternative music will have a huge impact on 2025. < Back Nick's Corner: January 2025 Recs Nick Cline Jan 7, 2025 Share Alternative music will have a huge impact on 2025. Hello everyone! First, I would like to apologize for the lateness of this one. December and January are some of the craziest times of the year, as most of you can attest. But, besides that, welcome! Welcome to the first playlist picks for 2025. I want to thank all of y'all for the support you've been giving since I started at this magazine in June of last year. I am very grateful for all the opportunities and people I have met through this magazine, and I hope to continue meeting all of you beautiful people in the future. Okay, enough with the yapping. Let's get into it! 1 Black Gives Way to Blue by Alice In Chains Click to listen Deets about the track : First up on the chopping block is this beautiful song from 90s legends Alice in Chains . This song is from their 2009 album, Black Gives Way to Blue . It is the title track of the album that we will be discussing today. The song, ' Black Gives Way to Blue ', is a song that gets me through the harsh months of December and January. It is a tonal masterpiece that will leave chilling reminders of your triumphs, darkness, and lives ahead of you and the lives before now. It is perfect for that somber feeling of winter, and it can give you hope to push past the harshness of the past year into the greatness you will become in this new year. 2 Bleed by Kris Russ Click to listen Deets about the track : Next up is a local Louisiana act, Kris Russ . His song ' Bleed ' is an absolute banger. It is a grand testament to the possibilities of the music scenes in Louisiana. His mixing of early 2000s alternative and pop rock is a masterful determination of sonic mixing with modern sounds. The lyricism hits every note of the broken-hearted minds that will find his music inspiring and soothing. I can't wait to see what awaits Kris Russ in 2025, so I hope y'all feel the same after checking out his music. Follow Kris Russ closely because he has crafted a sound all his own. 3 Drywall by Goodbye Academy Click to listen Deets about the track : The following two picks will be more local acts that light the stage on fire with every note and beat they lay across. First up, Goodbye Academy . Goodbye Academy is a band located in the Baton Rouge area, and let me tell you, everyone needs to treat themselves to their live set. They are a powerful trio of musicians with so much energy and personality, and their sound reflects this in perfect unity. Their song, ' Drywall ', is the ideal introduction to their music that fuses the sounds of midwest emo , punk , and high-octane rock . Please do yourself a favor and check out this song and their catalog. You will not be disappointed! 4 Daydream by Jean Claude Seagal and The Gosh Darn Dangs Click to listen Deets about the track : Next up, we have the last local pick for this installment. Welcome, Jean Claude Seagal . Their sound is reminiscent of alternative legends of the 80s and 90s, but they fit in the modern twist of hard rock and punk . The song I want to show off today is ' Daydream .' This song is a special treat to listeners because it shows off another great band, The Gosh Darn Dangs . They are an amazing group to check out as well. This song offers sonic pleasures that will show off both sides of the two bands involved in the project. ' Daydream ' reminds me of Dinosaur Jr. in every significant way, but it has its sonic uniqueness that I genuinely feel deserves more love. Mixing fuzzy, spacey melodies, progressive drum styles, and pounding bass lines offer a sonic palette that will satisfy just about anybody. Do yourself a favor and check out this band of wickedly talented people. 5 Dragonaut by Sleep Click to listen Deets about the track : The last of this first playlist picks is Sleep 's wicked song, ' Dragonaut .' The stoner rock legends Sleep offer a different light to the playlist picks. They are a heavy, droning, and ready to beat your eardrums into the ground type of band. If you are a fan of old-school Black Sabbath and a fan of walls of fuzz, then you are in luck because these guys offer that in strides. Please do yourself a favor and check out Sleep and their discography. They have cemented themselves as legends in the stoner rock genre. This song is an excellent introduction to them because of its familiar feel of blues-influenced rock with that twist of walls of fuzz, droning melodies, and a rhythm section that could floor just about anybody. Check these tracks out and let me know what you think. -Nick- www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Stream this NOW! < Back Halloween with a Horror Master: Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities Keeley Brooks Oct 4, 2022 Share Stream this NOW! There are many masters of horror out there and topping the list for nearly two decades has been Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro. With top nods under his hat like Blade II , Hellboy & Hellboy II: The Golden Army, and Pacific Rim , he’s perhaps best known for upending the horror movie scene with 2006’s dark fantasy feature Pan’s Labyrinth . The master is fresh off the heels of last year’s Nightmare Alley , which is currently streaming on Hulu if you haven’t seen it, and he’s back this month on Netflix with his latest collective work of art, Guillermo del Toro’s Cabinet of Curiosities . Curiosities is an eight-episode anthology series created, produced, and hosted by Del Toro. It will feature a slew of material he wanted to bring to audiences in a smaller format than the typical feature-length film. And, apparently, according to our sources, we can expect to see and hear many of the tales and anecdotes the filmmaker writes about in his memoir Guillermo del Toro Cabinet of Curiosities: My Notebooks, Collections, and Other Obsessions. Netflix calls the series a curated “collection of unprecedented and genre-defining stories meant to challenge our traditional notions of horror” by carefully selecting a variety of writers and directors to bring the tales to life. There’s a tale directed by The Babadook ’s Jennifer Kent, another led by Firestarter ’s Keith Thomas, and even originals written by H.P. Lovecraft with screenplays penned by Mandy co-writers Panos Cosmatos and Aaron Stewart-Ahn (you should totally see that movie if you haven’t yet, by the way; it’s some bloody, ass-whooping fun that includes one very badass Kevin James), and The Dark Knight wordsmith himself, David S. Goyer. With such a variety of talent in the mix, on top of having del Toro at the helm, there’s absolutely no way these terrifying tales won’t stick with you like. Kind of like that moment in Nope when we had the big reveal: everyone lost their shit. Me included. I will never look at clouds the same way again. Ever. The collection also features a slew of your favorite actors, from Tim Blake Nelson ( O’ Brother, Where Art Thou? ), Andrew Lincoln ( The Walking Dead ), and F. Murray Abraham ( Mythic Quest ) to Rupert Grint ( Servant ), Ismael Cruz Cordova ( Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power ), AND, one my actor-comedian faves, DJ Qualls ( Supernatural , Road Trip ), among other well-knowns. Sounds pretty righteous, right? It is! Mostly. Here’s the rub: rather than all eight episodes dropping at the same time, which is pretty standard for Netflix, Cabinet of Curiosities will drop two at a time over three days as part of a special Netflix & Chill’s Halloween Event. Even still, that’s not so bad. The first two episodes of the series will be available at midnight on Tuesday, October 25, with subsequent episodes premiering two at a time over the next three days. All eight episodes will be available to watch globally on Friday, October 28, just in time for Halloween weekend. If you haven’t seen the official trailer, which, I have to say, offers up quite a cozy Gothic feel with some horrifically beautiful but frightening monsters, you can watch it here . You’re welcome. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

10 Miles Into the Dark is a carefully crafted journey. < Back Exploring Darkness and Depth: A Review of Dark Miles’ 10 Miles Into the Dark Nicole Brice Sep 26, 2024 Share 10 Miles Into the Dark is a carefully crafted journey. With fall here, I have decided to review one of my favorite new albums from this year for you because it perfectly fits the fall mood. Released on April 25, 2024, 10 Miles Into the Dark is the first solo album from Portuguese musician Pete Miles and is a meticulously crafted piece from start to finish. No stranger to the music scene, having fronted the band MOSH previously, Pete has crafted a fantastic album with a constant theme of 80s new wave influences; it’s got synths, guitars, and beautifully crafted lyrics, making for one solid effort. This 10-track album blends heavy, melodic undertones with a shadowy ambiance that makes it strangely cathartic. Released April 25, 2024 As the album title suggests, 10 Miles Into the Dark isn’t just a collection of songs but a thematic journey. The “10 Miles” could be interpreted as the stages of emotional descent, exploring themes of isolation, personal struggle, and the human experience when faced with despair and uncertainty. The “dark” isn’t literal darkness but a metaphor for the unknown, the fears and doubts we often hide from. The concept of a gradual descent is prevalent throughout the album, with each song building upon the last, moving deeper into a dense, gloomy atmosphere. The tracks serve as individual chapters in this narrative, guiding you into the album's complex emotional soundscape. Let’s get into the track listing, shall we? 10 Miles … It is a hauntingly beautiful opening song that starts softly and then continues to build, setting the tone for the album. Your Heart is an Empty Street This song is the first single released from the album. It’s upbeat, with a new wave edge, and full of soul and depth. We also reviewed it here , so read more about it via the link. When the Lights Go Out It is one of the most influential and poignant songs to come out of the industry in a long time. It resonates with lyrics that speak of hope, love, and unity. We need freedom for all. Yes, yes, we do. Pete’s vocals are full of emotion and conviction. This song will evoke some feelings, so have the tissues handy. Because of the message and lyrical content, I feel this song will be a very important song in the future. I could even see Pete re-recording this song with the legendary Aaron Lewis of Staind . It's that good. Running in Circles This is a low-key track with beautiful synths and soft vocals. It’s very mellow and soothing. Don’t Let Me Fall Apart This song departs from the vibe of the rest of the album. It starts with a country twang on the guitar and beautiful vocals. Nothing Left to Feel This song starts with a pulsing synth beat and evolves into a song full of 80s nostalgia. The synths remind me of Depeche Mode . Favorite lyrics from ‘Nothing Left to Feel’ : “ Save me from this poisoned room – just take me anywhere but here. ” The Waiting This song has a Smiths meets Echo and the Bunnymen vibe. Great track. One Last Goodbye This song starts with the sound of rain coming down and then the guitar – and it hits you. All at once. Pete’s voice has tinges of Andrew Eldritch from The Sisters of Mercy on this track, which is terrific. Dear Enemy This is a solid rock song. Quite enjoyable. …Into the Dark ‘Into the Dark’ is the perfect exit for a well-crafted album. It’s plain hypnotic. 10 Miles Into the Dark is a stunning debut that establishes Dark Miles as a band to watch. The album’s ability to balance beauty and brutality, light and darkness, makes it a compelling listen from start to finish. Be sure to check it out NOW! I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do. To learn more about Dark Miles: Bandcamp : musicdarkmiles.bandcamp.com 10 Miles Into The Dark, by Dark Miles 10 track album Distrokid : distrokid.com Your Heart Is An Empty Street by Dark Miles Stream and Save Your Heart Is An Empty Street - Distributed by DistroKid Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/artist/4XvSRfdTywsHsvqbCHbOgQ?si=A_NaSa0gS0uCBTmX0xHG2A Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/darkmilesband Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/darkmilesband X : https://x.com/darkmilesband YouTube : www.youtube.com Dark Miles Dark Miles the solo project of Pedro Lima (a.k.a. Pete Miles), lead singer of the extinct band from Portugal (MOSH). MOSH were a rock band that existed between 2004/2010. MOSH played at big festivals, and as a support act for renowned bands, like Marilyn Manson, Ill Niño, Soulfly. Their video had frequent airplay on MTV Portugal and nominated for Best Newcomer Act by MTV in 2007. They were also invited by the streetwear brand "Volcom" to play at the brand's world event in Biarritz. Pete went into an artistic hiatus that ended with the arrival of the pandemic, which led to an album focused on his influences beyond the heavier spectrum of rock, the 80s and 90s alternative rock. Influences from Depeche Mode, David Bowie, Peter Murphy, The Sound, Psychedelic Furs and Peter Gabriel, to Mad Season, Stone Temple Pilots, Chris Cornell, Mother Love Bone, Temple of the Dog, Mark Lanegan, etc, Pete Miles tries with this album to pay homage to these two brilliant decades of international music. *Cover photo via Facebook Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

XIII Minutes delves into the dynamics of power and influence on their latest offering. < Back Exploring XIII Minutes’ Bold New Track: ‘Cult Leader’ Nicole Brice Jun 26, 2024 Share XIII Minutes delves into the dynamics of power and influence on their latest offering. Sometimes, a song comes across my radar and instantly hooks me. “Cult Leader” by Tulsa-based XIII Minutes has done just that. Released June 23, 2024, and currently available via Bandcamp, “Cult Leader” is a gripping mix of hard-hitting lyrics and compelling instrumentation with a solid four minutes of sound to get your pulse and adrenaline pumping. The mix sounds great—the vocals have a pop-punk vibe, and the chorus is a powerful standout. XIII Minutes continues to push boundaries with a track that is both sonically aggressive and lyrically profound. The song is structured around dynamic shifts between explosive verses and a chorus that is both anthemic and chilling, with the soundscape being chaotic yet controlled. Overall, ‘Cult Leader’ is a solid and enjoyable track that cleverly weaves hints of early 2000s rock with the high energy of pop punk, creating a unique and intriguing sound that will surely get you going. Click to experience 'Cult Leader' for yourself! Written by Jamie Kucinski (drums), Thomas Wheat (guitars), Jerrod Cunningham (vocals), and Preston Bell (bass), ‘Cult Leader’ starts jamming as soon as the song begins and does not let up the entire time. This song has it all, and I highly recommend you listen to it today. To learn more about XIII Minutes: xiiiminutesofficial | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Everfelt's mix of genres and sounds will leave you wanting more < Back Everfelt: A Harmonic Driving Force on the Rise Nicole Brice Jun 9, 2023 Share Everfelt's mix of genres and sounds will leave you wanting more With so much music being produced these days, sometimes it’s difficult to stand out amongst the clutter. One band from Johnston City, Illinois, is defining who they are with a sound so unique, it can’t be compared, and that band is Everfelt. The band has many years of musical experience between them and they know what they want to accomplish and even have a plan as to how to do it. Since forming in 2022, the band is steadily gaining momentum on social media and these guys are building a platform to show the world their brand and style of music. Photo provided by band Drawing inspiration from many genres and artists, Everfelt’s music is characterized by its heavy guitars, emotional and powerful vocals, and introspective lyrics. With guitar solos emanating like straight southern sludge rock, the sound coming from these talented musicians is sure to resonate with many. One might even say they have created the perfect soundtrack for the apocalypse with hints of blues, metal, post-punk, goth, and psychedelia. Everfelt isn’t afraid to be different, so if you are looking for a band with tunes that are both emotionally powerful and sonically heavy, these guys are for you. They are on the rise and are sure to grow in popularity in the years to come. Everfelt is comprised of Adam Steglich on lead vocals, Corey Robinson on lead guitar, Jacob Crawford on rhythm guitar, Jason Hensgen on bass, and Stone on the kit. Currently, the band is finalizing the tracks for their upcoming “Ascension” EP, which is scheduled for release later this summer. We had a few questions for the guys, so we sat down with them for a little Q & A, which you can dive into below. With plenty of music streaming on all platforms, we’re certain you’ll find something to pique your interest, so be sure to check them out. New album coming summer 2023 MaM : Hey guys, thanks for chatting with me today. We really appreciate you. So, how did the name for the band come about? Adam : Everfelt was created in memory of a friend of mine, whom I used to play music with, that passed away two years ago. He and I had a prior project called Angerfelt. [His] last name was Lingerfelt, and so that’s where Everfelt came from. I love the concept, too, of the music being forever felt in your mind and in your heart. That’s something you’ll remember no matter what. That was the original thought process behind Everfelt, but now it’s become something else between all of us. We want you to actually feel and experience the music. Stone : One of the things that makes this band so successful, I think, is that each member … does what they do best, and we work very well together. We’re very open-minded with each other. We don’t hide or harbor any BS. We get it out in the open. We get it taken care of and we work together as a team, and this is the result of it. MaM : With such a unique sound, as far as influences go, you are all over the board with STP, Zeppelin, etc., but who are your true inspirations as far as bands and musicians? Corey : My guitar influences are David Gilmour from Pink Floyd, and I grew up listening to Slayer and Metallica—stuff like that. I started playing guitar in 1991 during the grunge era. I developed my own style by listening to everything that I liked. Photo provided by band MaM : So, you have more of the metal influence, then? Corey : Yeah, but I listen to a good bit of blues and jazz, too, and I can honestly say I am just influenced by music in general—even hip-hop. Don’t get me wrong, though; I take some of their beats and ideas and throw it in music because I do have that respect for all genres of music. MaM : I take it, then, you have music in your collection ranging from “awesome” to “please don’t judge me?”(laughs) Corey : Yeah, I listen to a good bit of blues and solo stuff like Joe Bonamassa—every realm of music you could possibly think of. Adam : For me, growing up, it was Layne Staley from Alice in Chains and Jonathan Davis from Korn. Even Ozzy and Black Sabbath were huge influences for me. Maynard, of course, too. Vedder was an influence, too. MaM : Everyone wants to make fun of his vocals, but you couldn’t have had the 90s without Vedder, right? Adam : Right! (laughs) When I listen to us and what we’ve been coming up with, there’s even a hint of Danzig influence, too, but I can’t really put my finger on any one band that we sound like. What’s coming together and being created is because of the recipe of the people involved. It’s creating a new sound you’ve never heard before, and that is Everfelt. MaM : Your sound is very different, and I feel you are on to something with it. How did the band come together with the core grouping you have now? Stone : Let’s go back to 2018. We had a cover band out of my studio here, the Man Cave, called the Los Hombres. We were a five-piece cover band. Jacob, our rhythm guitar player, was a part of that. He went on to play with Adam a good bit, and then COVID hit, so after COVID, I’m sitting here … and I’ve been on a solo drum mission for a few years. I’m a fan of Motorhead, 5 Finger Death Punch, Judas Priest, Nickelback—and all the haters can just hate, but ... Photo provided by band MaM : I was just about to say something about that. (laughs) Stone : Hey, good music is good music . (laughs) So, I’m seeing Corey posting all these videos of himself playing with a blues track, ripping it up, and then I found out he was living close to me … four miles down the road … so I invited him to have coffee with me and … Corey : After the phone call for the coffee, we started playing cover songs of Santana and stuff like that. [We were] trying to get that psychedelic feel and vibe and I was like, ‘Screw this shit.’ We were doing good, but I was like, ‘If I’m going to do my own music, then I’m going to do it right.’ I wanted people to know my music and the music we create, so I started writing rhythms, and Adam had an ad on Craig’s List, so we brought him in. The first jam was perfect. Jacob came in, too, and it was like magic. We then had a first bass player come in, but he didn’t want to show up for practice, so … Jason : So, as the story goes along, I’m at home having a cup of coffee before work one day, and literally just a week before that, I had seen these guys on Facebook, and they were local guys, so I gave them a thumbs up. I listened to their jams and really liked it and thought it was fresh. A week later, I heard the hook of our song ‘Stranger’ in my head and [knew I had to] holler at these guys because their videos on FB at the time didn’t show a bass player in the lineup. I’m local, so, long story short, I hit them up and showed up to practice where we started jamming. Everyone in the band is easy to get along with and it all just came together. They appreciate good tones, and everything was meshing naturally and now here we are. It’s just a comfortable fit. Photo provided by band MaM : What inspires you to create, and what inspires the lyrics of your songs? Corey : The main reason for me creating these songs is that it allows me to sleep better at night. Adam : I completely concur with the sleeping better, but for me … the medium of art, whether it be writing or music or painting, helps me to fulfill my purpose here. Every single day we are practicing, not just at home, but everywhere. We are always focusing on the music. Giving back to the gift that has been given. This is a gift to us. [It’s] the energy and the opportunity to have a message and help people relate to us, not just to talk about their dark tunnel but also to talk about the light we have found. Corey : I envisioned this for a long time in my conscious state and in my daydreams and throughout life. I already know it’s part of my destiny. That’s how I created these songs: from dreams I had. It seems I have done this in a past life. Stone : This is blowing up bigger than we could have imagined. Jacob : I just look at music in a different way than most. There are multiple factors, though. It all depends on my mood. Jason : Music inspires me. Since I was young, I have always listened to rock. The basic rhythm of music … 1, 2, 3, 4 hand claps – stomp – sing – dance and 1, 2, 3, 4 two-steps. As simple and primal as that. The communication and synergy of multiple people doing it together, too, and then adding creativity to it as an expression is what I found works. It’s like magic. The music is invisible, but you can hear it and feel it. Being able to participate in a live band and being able to make live music with other guys is what it is for me. MaM : So, you guys have a new album slated for release this summer. What direction are the songs taking? Adam : We have 18 songs we are working on, but it’s going to be split into two albums with nine songs each on the albums. The first album is going to have some of our current releases. It is called ‘Ascension.’ We’ve seen an evolution with some songs that didn’t make the cut right now. We want every song to be a banger and we want you to be able to put the album on and just push play. Where we are right now, we are working on finishing all the pieces. It’s coming along. MaM : You can’t rush progress! Adam : It’s been a natural progression … allowing ourselves to become music. The music is not ours; we are the music. Each song has its own theme and its own way. Photo provided by band MaM : What would you say your mission as a band is? Adam : We would like to be playing arenas and stadiums in the next two years. We’ll be together a year on August 14, so we think we can get there. - To experience Everfelt’s sound, be sure to hit one of the links below. The guys have some shows booked for this summer, so be sure to check out their social media to stay up to date on all live performances. You’re gonna want to go ahead and put this indie band on your radar now! Home | EverFelt Facebook EverFelt Band - YouTube Eric Wilburn Corey Robinson Adam Steglich Jacob Crawford (@everfelt_band) on Instagram EverFelt | Spotify ‎EverFelt on Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

A Nod to the 90's < Back Melodic and Atmospheric Hailing from Manchester: What Will Be Nicole Brice Mar 21, 2023 Share A Nod to the 90's When one thinks of the music of Manchester , many bands come to mind, such as The Stone Roses , Oasis , and The Smiths , or, if you like more of the punk vibe, then the Buzzcocks will come to mind. If there is one thing that is certain, though, no two bands from Manchester sound alike, and this next band definitely continues this tradition. Hailing from Manchester, UK is What Will Be . These guys came onto the music scene in 2019 and wrote and self-released their self-titled EP , which debuted in September 2022. Credit: Hannah Reeves Their new single ' Something More ' was released earlier this month and is currently available on all streaming platforms. The newest single is an enjoyable mix of melodic rock with an outstanding mix of larger-than-life guitars, sing-along melodies, and atmospheric synth chords and is a truly solid offering from this five-piece Alternative Rock band. What Will Be is Bram (guitar/vocals), Jonny (guitar), James (bass/vocals), JK (drums/vocals), and Chris (keyboard/piano). Upon discovering their music, because we dig it so much, we had a few questions for them, so let us share with you a little more on this pretty bad-ass band from the UK with an uncommonly catchy sound. Credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : With a strong nod to 90’s alternative, who would you cite as your influences to make music? What Will Be : In terms of bands from the 90s, we’d say Incubus and Deftones would be two of our main influences. However, we’re also inspired by newer bands, such as Alter Bridge , City and Colour , and Alexisonfire . Credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : Vocals – your vocals are very different, and I can hear a tinge of David Byron from Uriah Heep within them. Who are your vocal inspirations, and why? What Will Be : Vocal-wise, our main influences would be Brandon Boyd of Incubus and Myles Kennedy of Alter Bridge . In terms of why it would come down to the bands you listen to most would be the inspiration, I think in terms of vocally, their range is like what I can do with my voice. While these bands might be heavier musically, their vocal stylings are what inspire us with the music we create, even if it’s not as ‘heavy.’ Credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : What type of guitars are the band’s preferred ones to play and why? What Will Be : Bram uses Chapman and PRS guitars . Jonny uses Fender and Gibson guitars. Dual humbucker coil tapped, on occasion … hollow body and solid body guitars. We like guitars with a thicker, higher output sound. MaM: What pedals / gear was used in the recording of the newest material? The guitar sound is incendiary and distinctive. What Will Be: Live we use Mooer Shimverb Pro , Marshall modulation pedal , Maxon OD 808 and a Boss delay . Recording we use the above but Marshall/ Blackstar plugins. These give us our unique guitar tone, which seems to separate us from other bands in sound. Credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : You have an interesting band name. Where did the inspiration behind the band name come from? What Will Be : We’re a little bit older in terms of life experience than most ‘new’ bands. Lots of different names were in consideration; however, as it's probably our last stab at ‘trying to make it,’ the name reflects a certain type of fate. We just uttered the famous line, ‘What will be, will be,’ and that’s how it came about. Credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : What led to the formation of the band? Give us a little more history on the beginnings. What Will Be : We’ve been in bands together for years from the ages of 16 onwards, then over the years bands come and go, but we all remained friends. A few years ago in James’s back garden, we jammed a few acoustic ideas Bram had, and things snowballed from there until 2019 when we added a different dynamic with Chris our keyboardist. Since then, we became an alternative unique five-piece band. Something More by What Will Be Experiencing What Will Be is a must for any music lover and appreciator. Be sure to visit their links below and explore all you can about these guys. Then, hit ‘em up with some love and support, no matter where in the world you are. To learn more about What Will Be: Instagram: What Will Be (@ whatwillbe.band ) • Instagram photos and videos Twitter: Profile / Twitter Facebook: What Will Be | Manchester ( facebook.com ) Spotify: What Will Be - Single by What Will Be | Spotify www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Chris Pryor & The Main Event melds classic rock riffs with soulful country vibes for a solid first release. < Back Chris Pryor and The Main Event Hit the Ground Running with Debut Single Nicole Brice Jul 5, 2024 Share Chris Pryor & The Main Event melds classic rock riffs with soulful country vibes for a solid first release. Louisiana-based country band Chris Pryor & The Main Event released their debut single via a lyric video today, and the full release is coming next week. Written by Chris Pryor and Kenny Kleinpeter, “Just Take a Look at Me” perfectly blends country and classic rock reflecting the band’s Southern roots. With Chris Pryor’s heartfelt vocals, the emotion in each word is so deep that it connects with the listener on a profound level, evoking a sense of empathy for the song's narrator. Coming from someone who does not prefer to listen to country music , I enjoy this song. Now, this is just my interpretation of it, but you can interpret the lyrics as you will … it’s the story of a guy down on his luck at the bar on another lonely night when he sees an angelic woman enter. He is instantly drawn to her beauty and tells her how he could be the right man for her from across the room in his thoughts. The song ends as the night is ending, and he's bringing her home, and the narrator finally gets the woman to indeed look at him. Chris Pryor has said of the creative process for how the song came together, “I began writing the song in 2021. It sat dormant for two years, and then in January of 2023, I handed it over to Kenny to try to develop a country rock concept for the song. He finished the third verse and created a demo, and we didn’t touch it again until January of 2024. We began recording it on March 9th, 2024, and spent two weeks back and forth in the studio for all the sessions.” Credit: Facebook Recorded by Faith Pierce in her home studio in Baton Rouge for a Berklee College of Music Project and mastered by Audiosmith Studio in Prairieville, “Just Take a Look at Me” is a solid first effort for this up-and-coming group. “The inspiration for the song was my lack of ability to write upbeat, high-energy music, and I set out to write just that with this song. Usually, my writing consists of slower-tempo country songs, and with this song, I wanted a more 'rock' style,” says Pryor. Formed in 2022, Chris Pryor & The Main Event has been a forceful presence in the local cover band music scene. Now, with the debut of their first song of original material, they are showing that they are more than just a band that can sing others’ music. The line-up includes Chris Pryor (Lead Vocals and Harmonica), Kenny Kleinpeter (Lead Guitar and Backup Vocals), Bill Ourso (Bass Guitar and Backup Vocals), Hal Higgins (Steel Guitar and Backup Vocals), David Averett (Keys), and Jory Chauvin (Drums). “The studio opened our creativity, so we now have 14 more songs to work up, and we are taking our next single, 'Nothing Without You,' into the studio later this month. We plan to release a new single every two months until we have enough to release our first EP.” "Just Take a Look at Me" is a promising start for Chris Pryor & The Main Event . I eagerly anticipate their future creations and the unique blend of country and rock they will bring to the music scene. The new single officially drops on July 12, 2024, so be sure to add it to your list of songs to check out NOW. In the meantime, check out the new lyric video below. The song has also been accepted for James Gilmore’s "Made In Tiger Country" show on 100.7 The Tiger WTGE , which airs on Sundays between 6pm - 7pm, so be sure to try and catch it then. The official release party for "Just Take a Look at Me" is scheduled for July 12, 2024 at Little Nashville Dance Hall in Denham Springs with the party kicking off at 9pm. For more information about Chris Pryor & The Main Event , just hit one of the links below: www.maineventrocks.com Louisiana's Electrifying Powerhouse | Chris Pryor and The Main Event Unleash the charismatic powerhouse of Louisiana's music scene with Chris Pryor and The Main Event. Meet our band members, Kenny Kleinpeter, Mike Ducote, Jay Cudd, and Jory Chauvin. Experience extraordinary talent, seamless transitions, commanding presence, and irresistible energy. Facebook Chris Pryor & The Main Event (@maineventrocks) • Instagram photos and videos www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Ventruss creates a sound that defies categorization < Back Ventruss: An Orchestration of Dedication, Creativity, and Passion Chris Pryor Aug 18, 2023 Share Ventruss creates a sound that defies categorization ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze, industrial, and grunge. < Back Reviews on the Real: Breathing by Cinder Nicole Brice Jul 18, 2025 Share Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze, industrial, and grunge. UK-based band Cinder has returned with their latest release, ' Breathing ,' a magnificent song filled with fuzz and distortion that is sure to captivate you. This track creates an alternate universe where, if Robert Smith had founded Deftones , the result might resemble this sound. Still, in all honesty, it reminds me more of what might happen if Catherine Wheel and My Bloody Valentine had a musical collaboration, with a touch of Nine Inch Nails added to the mix. Truly, Cinder’s new song blurs the lines between shoegaze , industrial , and grunge . Released July 16, 2025 ‘ Breathing ’ is a slower track, but everything about it resonates. The spoken word section, which begins around 2:07, enhances the melancholic vibe before the song transitions into a glorious, fuzz-filled guitar solo. It then returns to the chorus. As I listen to ' Breathing ,' I can envision a backdrop behind the band performing the song, complete with psychedelic visuals to accompany it. This is one song you need to check out now—it's that good. In keeping with the spirit of the band's previous release, ‘ Impermanence ,’ this new track showcases Lewis's talents as he expertly handles the vocals, synths, and overall production, creating an immersive soundscape. Cal plays lead guitar on this track, except for the outro, where both Daniel and Cal play rhythm guitar, with Zach on drums. 'Breathing' by Cinder ‘ Breathing ’ is a living entity you need to enjoy with headphones, so stream it now . To learn more about Cinder: Instagram Cinder (@cindernoise) • Instagram photos and videos Website: cindernoise www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘Rise Not Fall’ is an expertly crafted acoustic EP full of emotion. < Back Reviews on the Real: Rise Not Fall by Aaron J. Burke Nicole Brice Nov 13, 2024 Share ‘Rise Not Fall’ is an expertly crafted acoustic EP full of emotion. Irish singer / songwriter Aaron J. Burke has expertly crafted an acoustic EP that is a powerhouse of emotion, with each song delivering a potent punch. This EP is best experienced with headphones, allowing you to be fully immersed in the raw power and artistry of the music, inspiring you with every note. ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ captures the essence of resilience and self-reflection with the raw emotional lyrics that are deeply personal yet universally relatable. “The message I’d like people to come away with [from my music] is honestly, it’s okay to fall down in life. It’s okay to have bad days or to struggle mentally, if you know you’re not alone. There are people out there that love and care, so just reach out if you’re struggling. Help is just a click or phone call away.” Released on October 25, 2024, ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ does not disappoint from start to finish. Let’s get into the track listing, shall we? Click the picture to listen Rise Not Fall A hauntingly beautiful instrumental song full of intricate guitar work and soothing tones. I closed my eyes when listening to this track, and you should, too. Take it all in. “Originally, the instrumental was titled ‘Silence in the Chaos’, but during recording the EP, I changed the name to the title track. Honestly, the inspiration [behind the song] was I was just messing around on the guitar in 2016 and stumbled upon the riff, which is how I sometimes come up with guitar pieces that become songs.” Run For Cover There are no frills – just straight, enjoyable music. That’s the best way I can describe ‘Run for Cover’ by Aaron J. Burke. It’s melodic from start to finish, with excellent lyrics. Reviews on the Real: Run for Cover by Aaron J. Burke Faceless An open and honest letter to the world from Aaron’s eyes. Very potent. Phoenix ‘Phoenix’ is a hauntingly beautiful song reminiscent of tunes by XTC and REM. Aaron’s voice has such raw emotion that it’s peaceful and soothing. Reviews on the Real: Aaron J. Burke’s ‘Phoenix’ Burns Bright Hurray for Rock Bottom I started tearing up listening to this song. Maybe it’s the guitar work. Maybe it’s the lyrics. Either way, it is a powerful song. We have all been there – rock bottom, and if you haven’t, then count your blessings. I truly love the emotion throughout this track. Overall, ‘ Rise Not Fall ’ is a compelling showcase of Aaron J. Burke’s talent as a songwriter and musician. His music is strong and authentic because he speaks from his heart, and I admire that tremendously. If you would like to enjoy five songs full of meaning, then I recommend you listen to this newest EP release by Aaron J. Burke. His sincerity alone makes this collection of songs a spiritual experience. In an industry full of shallowness, Aaron’s music is a beacon of hope for those wanting to make a lasting impact through words. To learn more about Aaron J. Burke: Facebook Instagram www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Roger Ricks < Back Nothing But Heart and Soul Nicole Brice Dec 7, 2022 Share Roger Ricks If Bruce Springsteen and Dire Straits had a band baby, it would be Roger Ricks. No lie. Roger is a singer / songwriter based out of Zurich, Switzerland, but that’s not all he does. He also produces his own music and builds his own guitars, as well as markets himself AND giving the proceeds of his music sales back to charity. Wow, this man is incredible. I first stumbled upon Roger’s music via Instagram, which by the way, is an excellent way to discover new talent because of the visual aspect the medium allows. I often find myself scrolling through bands and artists and liking them, then following them, where I indulge in all they showcase on their profiles. The profiles then lead me to iTunes where I buy their music for my collection. With smooth, clear vocals and crisp, clean guitar work, Roger’s music inspires me. Truly, it does. Because I admire what Roger is doing so much, I decided to reach out to him to get to know a little more about what he makes him tick and guides his stance. With a new single releasing on December 9, 2022 via all streaming platforms, this is one artist you need to check out if you haven’t already. I threw Roger a few questions so I could learn more and was very delighted with his answers. Check it out and then go check out his music! MaM : Wow. I am very impressed with you. Your website is solid, too. Let me ask you, what led you to start producing your own music in lieu of having someone else do it? RR : I started recording my songs when I was about 12. At that time with two old tape recorders and much later with the computer. For me, music production is not a purely technical task, but part of the creative process of creating a song. Since I don't do music full-time and I also have a family, producing on my own allows me to work on my songs whenever I can and want to. Usually this is late at night when everyone else is already asleep and I can really dive into my creative flow. Roger's home studio setup MaM : So, you mentioned you have new music coming out. Tell us a little about the new single you are releasing. RR : The single is called "Lost,” and the lyrics were written by the wonderful Emme Pierre. Originally it was planned that she would sing the song and I would write the music but unfortunately, she lost her voice permanently before the recording due to health reasons, and we decided to record the song with my voice anyway. The song is about how people are willing to exploit others and take advantage for their own profit. This is a topic that always concerns me and is also a well-known phenomenon in show business. There is something energizing and intoxicating about striving for success, but you can also get lost in it and become too distracted from the essentials of life. MaM : Wow, what an amazing topic to tackle via songwriting. I can’t wait to listen to it. What music or things around you are inspiring you to create these days? RR : Musically, I am influenced by the older guitar gods like Slash, Eric Clapton, and Joe Perry. Of course, there are other virtuoso guitarists who can do technically amazing things with the guitar, too, but I'm more fascinated by catchy licks and melodic solos that you can also sing and that release emotions in me. Emotions of everyday life are also what inspire my music. My music is a diary of my feelings over the years. When something is bothering me, I process my thoughts into music and make them audible. Therefore, every song of mine in a way fits to a special event or a period of my life. MaM : I noticed on your website that you play a custom-built guitar. I want to know more about your custom guitars. Was it a particular sound you were looking for and that’s why you decided to build your own? Also, too, what type of guitar inspired the ones you build? RR : I am a typical Les Paul guitarist. I love the full sound. A few years ago, I was thinking about buying a flamed top Les Paul, but my budget didn't allow it. So, I had the crazy idea to build it myself. I always liked craftsmanship and so I watched YouTube videos of Luthiers for hours until I had the feeling that it could really work. I ordered the woods and parts and just started, and it grew from there. I had a lot of fun; it was like a meditation of sorts to grind the woods and in the end, I had a nice flamed top guitar resembling a Les Paul in my hands. Of course, it sounded a little different than if I had bought it but just different, not worse. This only further awakened my passion and since then the tones of my own guitars are an important part of my music. One of Roger's custom guitars MaM : I know that charity work is very near and dear to your heart. Can you tell us a little more about that and what you do? RR : Music has always been a very important part of my life. It has carried me through some really difficult times, and I don't know where I would be without the power of music. For me, music can build bridges, to connect people who otherwise would not communicate with each other and to make a positive difference in the world. I decided to set the goal of dedicating my music to a meaningful cause because 20 years ago, a school friend started an aid project in Ghana to help street children and to really make a difference through local education instead of just transferring money. Honestly, the money often doesn't get to where it's supposed to go or doesn't have a lasting effect, but through "Chance For Children" ( www.chance-for-children.org ), the children are given the opportunity to work out a long-term perspective for themselves. All my proceeds from my music goes 1:1 into this foundation. The idea is that people can donate money just by listening to music. You don't have to open your wallet, just spend a few minutes of your time listening to music to make a positive difference. This makes my music more meaningful and motivates me to put even more energy into it. I really hope that with time, more listeners will stream my music and I will be able to support more projects. For more information about Roger, visit his website at: Songwriter | Roger Ricks Music | Zürich On Social Media, he can be found at: Roger Ricks | Facebook Roger Ricks | Zürich | Facebook Roger Ricks (@roger_ricks_music) • Instagram photos and videos YouTube Roger Ricks - Topic - YouTube Spotify Roger Ricks | Spotify iTunes ‎Roger Ricks on Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

There is always time to catch a classic movie. < Back Top 5 Movies That Rock Jeff Holmes Jul 22, 2024 Share There is always time to catch a classic movie. A catchy score in a film can elevate it from good to great. The movies in this list take that idea a step further. These picks are all about the music. Whether it's blues , classical , heavy metal , jazz , or just plain old rock n' roll , they show us why music is so valuable in our lives. 1. Amadeus Amadeus is the story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and what shaped his music. Mentorship is challenging, especially when your protege` has more talent. For Salieri, Mozart proves to be a challenge and much, much more. This Best Picture winner (1984) shows us talent alone does not a musician make. Two sides of the same coin, Salieri and Mozart both demonstrate what a tormented creative genius looks like. Bravo Amadeus ! 1984 2. The Blues Brothers The Blues Brothers follows Jake and Elwood as they hurry to raise money. Their childhood orphanage is being shut down and they're the last hope. The only way to accomplish their goal is by getting the band back together. Reconnecting with each member of the band proves challenging. Along the way, the band proves to be true musical outlaws, as they stay one step ahead of the law. Don't worry, there are plenty of jams along the way. Ride along with the one, the only, the Blues Brothers. 1980 3. Pirate Radio Pirate Radio is the story of how rock n' roll fought to survive in 70s era Britain. Rock music was officially banned by the British government during this time. A workaround to this was moored offshore boats that played nothing but rock. The government opposed these so called 'pirate' radio stations by doing everything they could to shut them down. This hilarious movie, complete with a perfectly executed soundtrack, illustrates that deep down we're all rockers in one way or another. Rock n' roll will never die! 2009 4. Soul An animated film from the masters at Pixar, Soul doesn't include any immediately recognizable characters, however, the film is certainly a one of kind experience. Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher, is taken on both a musical and spiritual journey to find his place in life. He is consumed with waiting for his chance to perform professionally. Will his dream come true or does the universe have other plans? 2020 5. This is Spinal Tap This is Spinal Tap stands out as both a comedy film and rock and roll masterpiece. An originator of the mockumentary style, the film took its time growing an audience. Today it is undoubtedly a classic, equally known for its rocking soundtrack as well as its myriad of jokes. If you're a fan of more modern musical comedy acts such as Tenacious D , Weird Al , Flight of the Concords , etc, and somehow haven't yet seen it - get on it! You won't want to miss This is Spinal Tap! 1984 Be sure to check these films out if you haven't yet because they are some of my favorite films that rock! -Jeff- www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The latest from Vudu Sister leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. < Back Reviews on the Real: Vudu Sister Nicole Brice Aug 20, 2025 Share The latest from Vudu Sister leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. Today, I’m excited to share two songs from Vudu Sister , a gothic folk ensemble based in Providence, Rhode Island , with over two decades of performance experience. Led by French American songwriter Keith J.G. McCurdy , Vudu Sister's live sound features a rich arrangement of acoustic guitar, violin, cello, and vocals. Their music is inspired by European folk, 90s grunge, the works of H.P. Lovecraft , and the poetry and myths of classical antiquity. Vudu Sister is Keith J.G McCurdy (Guitar, lyrics, vocals), Isabel Castellvi (Cello), and Diane O'Connor (Violin). Credit: Vudu Sister The first song is titled ‘ Magic Powers ,’ released on July 8, 2025 . It begins with a haunting string arrangement, followed by some of the most soothing sounds I've heard in a long time. This romantic gothic waltz features a powerful chorus that is obsessive, and its arrangements linger in your mind long after it's finished. Released July 8, 2025 In my opinion, ' Magic Powers ' is a masterpiece, filled with conviction in both its lyrics and delivery. The raw quality of the song, without heavy production, makes it feel incredibly authentic—as if the artist is sitting right in front of me, expressing profound truths with nothing but strings, guitar, and voice. I highly recommend giving it a listen, and then you can thank me later. 'Magic Powers' LIVE "I wanted to write a song about falling desperately and painfully for an intoxicating, domineering matriarch; falling completely under her spell," says Vudu Sister songwriter Keith J.G McCurdy. Credit: Vudu Sister The second track, ‘ The Valley ’ (featuring Silver Rein ), was released on August 7, 2025 . This song blends Danny Elfman-inspired sounds with doom-metal string textures and Victorian gothic moods. It's both melancholy and surreal, and truly incredible. Released August 7, 2025 ‘ The Valley ’ strips the music down to its purest form, leaving nothing to hide behind. Every note, lyric, and breath resonates deeply, cutting straight to my heart. As the song ends, it leaves a memory as vivid as a whispered confession. Vudu Sister’s music is a mesmerizing blend of styles draped in soul-stirring melodies that intertwine artistry and emotion. Both tracks are from the band’s upcoming fifth album, titled Adynata , which is set to be released in March 2026 , so be sure to put them on your list of new music to check out now. To learn more about Vudu Sister: Spotify: Vudu Sister | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Vudu Sister - Apple Music Bandcamp: Music | Vudu Sister Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Instagram *All photos provided by Vudu Sister www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

‘High Desert Lows’ is an EP full of songs that speak of truth. < Back Reviews on the Real: Doctor Nez’s ‘High Desert Lows’ Nicole Brice Nov 22, 2024 Share ‘High Desert Lows’ is an EP full of songs that speak of truth. One thing I love about discovering new music is that you never know what you’ll find when you hit that play button. Case in point, the newest EP from Doctor Nez , aka Kenny Charters, a desert rock musician originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who now resides in Colorado. I had no clue what to expect upon listening to his newest EP for the first time, but I was pleasantly surprised and impressed once I sat down to consume all 27 minutes of his unique blend of desert rock . Photo provided by artist Doctor Nez's music, with its crisp, clean vocals, resonates with the human experience. His lyrics, which touch on truth, sorrow, focus, and determination, are a reflection of life’s ups and downs. His music is not just good rock with some twists and turns, but a mirror to our own life experiences and struggles. Doctor Nez, who has released two EPs of original material since early 2024, is a musician who is not just honing his craft but also making a significant impact. His music is a testament to his dedication and passion, inspiring others to strive for their best. His latest release, High Desert Lows , was released on November 15, 2024. It is a solid EP full of tunes sure to pique your interest. We break down the tracks for you below. Mark the Grave “Dead inside yet somehow breathing” – powerful opening lyrics for an opus of a song. Heavy guitars with a steady groove – this song pulls you in because of the powerful words. I had to turn it up and repeat it several times to truly take in all the lyrics. It's a solid rock tune. If You Know the Deal It's a head-nodding tune full of fuzz with a classic rock sound that starts loud but then tones down its vibe with softer lyrics full of introspection. As the chorus kicks in, this tune kicks it up a notch. Great track. Left All Alone It has an interesting vibe with the opening – I can’t exactly describe it. It's a very cool and laid-back tune that progresses into a heavy chorus. Among the Pages Tranquility is the word that pops into my head when I hear this instrumental tune. The guitar parts have a tranquil aura. It’s a bit softer than some of the other tunes on this EP, but I can hear the blues influence. In the Shadow of a Mountain It's another softer track that begins with a very ethereal sound. The crackling in the background makes me think I’m sitting around a campfire with an acoustic guitar. The vocals are soothing. I closed my eyes to listen to this one because I wanted to truly be immersed in it. It's a beautiful track. High Desert Lows It is an enjoyable track full of alt-grunge sensibilities. The vocals on this track soar. Left All Alone (radio cut) An altered version of the original track made radio-friendly. Photo provided by artist After I finished listening to High Desert Lows , I still had a few unanswered questions, so I reached out to Doctor Nez for more clarification. Check out our conversation below. MaM : What message would you like people to take away from your music? Your lyrics are potent and inspiring. Doctor Nez : My biggest goal is for listeners to extrapolate their own meanings from my music, but I can certainly give an idea of this EP's mood. ‘High Desert Lows’ is a labor of hate -- it is about places and situations where I was absolutely miserable and would never want to be again. That being said, I hope that every listener can relate at least one song to their own struggles and know they are not alone in feeling this way...they're not the first, and surely not the last. I hope people can bury themselves in at least one song, tunnel through, and come out the other side knowing that whatever they battled to relate to this, that by continuing, they've already won. You can find a similar message at the end of the 'Mark the Grave' music video on YouTube. MaM : Do you have a favorite track on this EP, and if so, which one? Doctor Nez : I have two. From a production standpoint, it's absolutely ‘ Mark the Grave .’ I think it's currently my "gold standard" for the minimum level of quality for future releases. The whole EP was written, recorded, and mixed by myself in my un-sound-treated basement, so I feel exceptionally proud that I was able to make something so (in my opinion) top-notch. From a music/songwriting perspective, it's ‘ High Desert Lows .' Sometimes, I almost forget that it's me; I really feel like I nailed the mood with the lyrics on that one, to the point that it didn't even need a true second verse. It'll also be tough to out-write that riff. MaM : I am in LOVE with the track, ' Among the Pages .' What was the inspiration behind it, and how did it come about? Doctor Nez : ‘ Among the Pages ’ is a funny one. Every record I make is likely to have a weird, atmospheric instrumental because that's one of the things I do in my free time. I'm the game master for a long-running Dungeons and Dragons campaign (which my wife, For the Love of Chuck, streams on Twitch ), and I decided early on in the game to make my own music for the game. ‘ Among the Pages ’ started as the background music for a huge, imposing magical archive belonging to a God. Over time, I felt it pulled the same emotional strings for me as some of the low moments while writing 'High Desert Lows', and I knew it had to be the sound that led into ‘ In the Shadow of a Mountain .’ MaM : Do you have any plans to tour in 2025? Doctor Nez : I'd love to play some shows in 2025. I'm doing everything myself right now, and it's very important to me that I find a few musicians who like the music enough to really get into it in a live setting. Economics is a big hurdle, too; I won't bring someone in to play my music if I can't pay them. I already have a prospective bassist interested, but rounding up a drummer and second guitarist could be challenging (Colorado Springs area players, DM me). MaM : Who do you cite as your ultimate vocal influence ? Doctor Nez : Gosh, that's a tough one. I don't sound like any of these guys, but my top 4 influences when it comes to stylistic choices are Ville Valo (HIM), Sahaj Ticotin (Ra), Matt Scannell (Vertical Horizon), and Tom Templar (Green Lung). If you want to add a little desert rock to your playlist, start with High Desert Lows by Doctor Nez . Guaranteed you’ll like it. For more information about Doctor Nez: Apple Music : music.apple.com Doctor Nez on Apple Music Listen to music by Doctor Nez on Apple Music. Spotify : Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/doctor_nez/ YouTube : www.youtube.com Doctor Nez Doctor Nez provides a punchy, riff-driven hybrid of Alternative and Desert Rock with honest lyrics about the struggles of modern life, drawing influences from a wide range of sounds, such as Alice In Chains, HIM, Witchcraft, Vertical Horizon, Red Fang, Green Lung, Church of the Cosmic Skull, and Black Sabbath. From paranoia to substance dependence, loneliness to uncertainty, suicidal ideation to survivors' grief, Doctor Nez retells haunting stories from firsthand and secondhand accounts, all wrapped up in a package of gritty, overdriven guitar tones and unapologetically disheveled vocals. Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/doctornezmusic www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Do you have something you'd like us to review? Send us an e-mail at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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28 Days Later is one of the best zombie movies ever made, having popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. < Back 28 Days Later: Feast Upon This Keeley Brooks Oct 18, 2023 Share 28 Days Later is one of the best zombie movies ever made, having popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. Rating: 5 out of 5 raging zombies Growing up as a Gen Xer, I was, of course, aware of George Romero’s infamous zombie canon and was intrigued by the whole concept, but it wasn’t until the mid-2000s when a friend made me watch 28 Days Later (2002) that my intrigue completely changed. Not only was 28 Days Later my first introduction to the brilliantly talented Cillian Murphy ( Oppenheimer ), but it was also my first intro to a new kind of zombie beyond the slow, dread-inducing shufflers of the 20th century. Prior to watching 28 Days Later , I’d never seen (or even considered) fast, vicious, blood-thirsty zombies, and the idea was so horrifying to me that after watching it, my zombie interest turned into obsession. Although Nightmare City (1980) is often credited as the first movie featuring fast zombies, it was 28 Days Later that popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified zombie lovers and moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. And don’t get me wrong: While I love the concept, if fast zombies ever appear and start chasing us and we’re running together, I will trip you in my effort to reach safety. I’m kidding. Following the aftermath of a deadly viral outbreak in Great Britain, 28 Days Later focuses on Jim (Cillian Murphy, of Oppenheimer ), a bicycle courier who wakes up from a coma 28 days after an accident to discover bustling London life completely obliterated and in total destruction, not another human soul in sight. After wandering the streets alone and easing into a church, Jim realizes the horror of the situation he finds himself in when he is chased by raging, bloodthirsty, once-human creatures. credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures It’s only after he’s rescued by a couple of survivors that he learns what has happened. Nearly a month prior to Jim’s awakening, a group of eco-terrorists in Cambridge freed a lab chimp from its cage, not realizing the chimp was infected with a highly contagious, aggression-inducing virus called the “Rage virus.” Unlike what we’ve seen in other zombie movies, one does not have to be bitten to be infected. All it takes is one drop of blood from an infected to drip into your eye or mouth or an open wound, etc., and that’s it: You’re done. Within seconds, the virus overtakes its host, completely morphing him/her/them into a violent, vicious creature that aggressively salivates for one thing: bloody carnage. Case in point: Check out what happens to Brendan Gleeson ( In Bruges ) after a drop of infected blood gets in his eye (warning: the scene below is intense): While this scenario is indeed horrifying, heart-pounding, and hair-raising, it’s not what makes 28 Days Later such a terrifying film. The fact that what was once the military has set up a blockade and is broadcasting protection as a cover to lure female survivors into sexual slavery so they can repopulate the world does. And this is where the movie really gets delicious, as Jim jumps into action to save the only two females he’s come to know—one being a minor. 28 Days Later shows what happens to society in a frantic, post-apocalyptic crisis. In such a scenario, you’d like to think that when there’s a common enemy to fight, humanity would band together, but it doesn’t happen like that: The law breaks down, forcing humans to self-regulate, and self-regulation always leads to a form of anarchy, which is what we see here. 28 Days Later is arguably the first zombie film to successfully show the true breakdown of humanity and those effects in a post-apocalyptic crisis. Furthermore, while these fast zombies serve as a symbol of loss and meaning amongst a plethora of society vacancies, they also serve as metaphors for society's need for immediate, mindless consumption of, well, everything. So where there are multiple interpretations of a zombie crisis between all zombie movies, one thing that remains standard throughout all of them: Human beings can’t be trusted to take care of each other in the middle of a crisis where there is no collective hope because consumption has taken over. There’s a lot about 28 Days Later that is hands-down masterful, including its horror within the horror story, but what I love the most is the way Director Danny Boyle juxtaposes the terror of what is happening with the beauty of nature (i.e., colorful geometric tulip fields and sprawling English country sides)—ironic since nature is where viruses originate. That alone is what easily makes 28 Days Later one of the best zombie movies ever made . In addition to its stellar narrative, the actors each give outstanding performances riddled with inherent fear, the cinematography is absolutely gorgeous, and the creative editing techniques as well as the soundtrack nicely drive the tension and pace of the movie, allowing the viewer to oscillate between safety and fear as 28 Days Later moves through its cycle of death, destruction, and rebirth. In 2007, a sequel released called 28 Weeks Later , but it was not written by 28 Days Later screenwriter Alex Garland ( Ex-Machina, Sunshine ), was not directed by Danny Boyle, nor did it feature Cillian Murphy and his character Jim. Some liked it; some didn’t. However, there is hope. Word on the circuit is that it looks like Garland, Boyle, and Murphy are teaming back up to bring us another sequel, which will likely be called 28 Years Later . I don’t know about you guys, but I’m already waiting with my giant bucket o’ popcorn and my safety blanket. Oddly enough, while 28 Weeks Later seems to be streaming multiple places, 28 Days Later is not currently streaming anywhere but is available to purchase and is well worth the fee. Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for entertainment consumption and an uncontrollable urge to write about everything she watches, even if it sucks. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The Pastor of Horror < Back Ezekiel Kincaid Keeley Brooks Dec 5, 2022 Share The Pastor of Horror So, sometimes there are men, and then sometimes, there’s a man … with such a fascinating story, you can’t help but stop and have to know the deets. Such is the case with a recent horror author I stumbled up by sheer happenstance, and I’m so glad I did, because I’ve been bursting with excitement to spotlight him ever since. His name is Ezekiel Kincaid, also known as—I’m not kidding—“The Paranormal Pastor” and “The Pastor of Horror.” And that’s what makes him so fascinating (aside, of course, from the fact that he’s a very talented writer): he’s a pastor writing horror fiction. Let me say that again: a pastor writing horror fiction … fiction involving demonic spirits and exorcisms, hauntings and slayings, and innocent characters of visceral bloody terror. His work is so fantastic, it pulled me right in while cooking breakfast over the weekend, and I managed to burn my bacon to a crisp and set off the fire alarm, because I was fully distracted at listening to Zeke read an excerpt from the second book in his “The Dreadful Death” series, “The Gathering.” “The Dreadful Death” series is a three-book series put out by Raven Tale Publishing and, if it’s being described in movie terms, “is a mix of The Exorcist , Carrie , and Pan’s Labyrinth ,” says Kincaid. “It’s a possession story about … a young girl [who also] has psychic abilities, and [she] opens herself up to this world where there are all kinds of creatures and demons, and some of these guardian demons are protecting her so she can fulfill her destiny of meeting this dark entity, The Tetromet,” describes Zeke. Set in the early 1800s in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, “The Gathering” tracks this young girl’s life as she descends deeper and deeper into darkness and madness, until finally the evil takes full control of her and she unleashes demonic terror upon her family, her friends, her loved ones, and her town. And that’s just the second book in the series. Kincaid is a self-described southern boy, born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He spent over 20 years in ministry as a pastor before shifting his focus to chaplaincy … and horror writing. He’s also (get this) a paranormal investigator with some pretty unexplainable experiences that’ll leave you as speechless as they did me. Dude is gifted, in more ways than one. And he trains in martial arts—Krav Maga and Jiu Jitsu, to be exact—so, in addition to exorcising demons, he also whips their ass. Zeke has three theological degrees and is an avid student of theology, philosophy, physics, and evolutionary science. (I know; it’s so amazing, I can barely believe it myself.) He’s also a, “former addict, who now uses his story to help encourage [and ensure] victory in others with the disease of addiction," and he has a "deep-seated passion for social justice and those who have been marginalized and oppressed." “Having been given the Scarlett letter by many in the former denomination I was ordained in because of my writing," he says, "I can empathize with those who have been rejected, ostracized, or condemned for their beliefs.” I had the extreme pleasure of getting to rap with Zeke over several in-depth conversations, so I figured I’d lay that Q&A down right here and let you see for yourselves just why you should not only know who Ezekiel Kincaid is but also why you should be following, reading, and supporting him as the brilliant artist he is. KB: So Zeke, tell us about yourself. Who are you, really? EK: Having walked through enough trials for six lifetimes, I am a man of deep strength, passion, conviction, love, empathy, courage, mercy, grace, and compassion. I also have a very dark sense of humor and love watching it get me into awkward social interactions. The worst thing anyone can try to do is fit me into a mold. I have a tendency to bust the edges. KB: Have you always been a writer? EK: I’d like to think so. When I was in first grade, I wrote this epic story for class about how my dog takes a crap. I got a C on it, but I’m pretty sure that was because my content was looked down upon. So, people have tried to censor me for decades! My parents didn’t know about it, because it was an in-class assignment. When they asked me why I wrote a story about my dog’s feces, I replied, “The teacher said to write about what we know.” KB: Ha! You can't tell a writer to write what they know, then condemn them for their subject matter! So, when did your skills fully emerge, and when did your love for horror begin? EK: My writing skills began to emerge in my creative writing class … in high school. This class, mixed with my English Literature classes and love for horror novels, began to birth within me a love for writing. It wasn’t until I got into seminary (the first time) that I really developed a real heart for writing. My passion for theological and doctrinal study led me to a deep desire to dissect, investigate, and share my findings with others. After years of writing theology and poetry, I decided to explore my other passion–horror fiction. Around 2018 I decided to give it a go. This season really developed my skill as a technical writer. However, once I started to get published in horror fiction, I met Lisa Vasquez. She is an author and CEO for Stitched Smile Publications. She began to mentor me and bring out hidden talents I never knew were there. She still helps me [to] this day, and we remain close friends. I pretty much owe all that I am as a horror writer to Lisa and her investment in me. KB: Do you write anything other than horror fiction? EK: I also love to dabble in poetry. This desire was also developed in high school through my creative writing and English classes. Currently, I find myself hopping back and forth [between] horror fiction, theology, and poetry. I love being able to switch gears like this. It keeps my brain active and my creativity fresh. I am also diving into the realms of horror fantasy and science fiction. KB: What drew you to the horror genre? EK: Two life-changing events happened in my childhood to get me into horror. First was watching the movie The Demon Murder Case with none other than … Kevin Bacon. It was a made-for-TV movie that came out in 1983, but I didn’t see it for the first time until I was [six]. Fans of The Conjuring series will recognize it as the inspiration for the latest installment, The Devil Made Me Do It . The show was based on one of the controversial Warren’s case files. This movie scared the lemon-yellow childhood pee out of me. I probably shouldn’t have watched it at [six] years old, but it definitely birthed my love for horror. The second event was my viewing of another made-for-TV movie called The Midnight Hour , made in 1985. If The Demon Murder Case birthed my interest in demonic possession, then this movie is the origin of my love for witches, zombies, and vampires. [High school is] where my love for horror went into overdrive. A steady dose of horror flicks finally merged with my introduction to Stephen King, Clive Barker, and William Peter Blatty books. My appreciation for the genre has done nothing but evolve and grow since then. KB: What was your first published piece/book? EK: My first published story was actually the first horror story I ever wrote called “Call of the Tetromet” with Fantasia Divinity [Magazine]. My first novelette to get published was also the first one I ever wrote. It’s called “The Memoir of Darius Fischer” and was published by Grinning Skull Press. The same goes for the first novel I ever wrote. It’s a horror comedy called “Johnny Walker Ranger: Demon Slayer.” It was picked up in 2020 by Stitched Smile Publications. KB: Are you with an agent/publisher at the moment? EK: Right now, I’m seeking an agent for my current horror/fantasy book called “The Gospel of Lilith.” I’ve been published by Fantasia Divinity, LVP, Grinning Skull, Stitched Smile, Raven Tale, Crystal Lake (Patreon), Black Hare Press. Shackelbound Books, Ghost Orchid Press, Siren’s Call, Horror Bound, Puzzle Box Horror, Jakob’s Horror Box, Horror Bites, and Hellbound Books. KB: Tell me about your books. As much as you wanna tell us, we wanna know. EK: Let’s start with “Johnny Walker Ranger: Demon Slayer.” This book was birthed from my love of The Evil Dead franchise, rednecks, and “South Park.” It follows a redneck alcoholic who discovers the secret to actually killing demons. He forms a demon-killing team full of rednecks and emos called The Bruce Campbells. With the help of Gabriel the angel, they have to stomp out a demon outbreak in Oxford, MS, that Johnny single-handedly created. If you love Evil Dead- style horror and offensive humor, this is the book for you. KB: That’s definitely my kind of book! What about “The Dreadful Death” series? EK: Currently in “The Dreadful Death” series, [there are] “The Dawning” and “The Gathering.” Book three is still forthcoming. The series follows a young girl named Theodosia Whitfield into a depth of horror like you’ve never read before. [This is the book that is compared to] a mixture of The Exorcist , Carrie , and Pan’s Labyrinth . The story takes place in the early 1800s in North Carolina. Theo is being groomed in preparation to serve a dark entity called The Tetromet. Because of her gifts, there are other creatures lurking in the Ethereal Plane that want her. To keep her safe, a demonic guardian named Hophni is sent to protect her from these monsters and make sure she fulfills her calling to The Tetromet. As Theo descends into the darkness, the evil she unleashes on those around her is malicious and insidious. The series is full of visceral, nightmarish imagery, intense, complex characters, and thought-provoking, realistic dialogue. Readers have said the story is like a cinematic experience in novel form. [As far as] “The Memoir of Darius Fischer,” anytime a writer takes on a well-known genre, they have to make sure there are enough original ideas to keep it fresh. This is the case with this novelette. Darius’s grandfather is dead, and he has left behind a myriad of secrets, one of those being a lone chest in his attic loft. Within it lies secrets so dark, they take Darius Fischer down a road of no return. Written in the style of Darius Fischer’s journal entries and his psychologist’s session notes, the story provides an original take of lycanthropy but also stays true to all the things we have come to love about the folklore. KB: Do you have anything in the works? EK: Yes, lots! First, I’ll mention the book I’m querying agents for, “The Gospel of Lilith.” This book is a horror/fantasy that combines the Hebrew and occult mythos of Lilith, along with a little made-up Zeke mythos thrown in there. The book shows how, through heartbreak, misogynist oppression, and betrayal, Lilith becomes the creature that we know her as today. It bears to mention that I do not go the traditional route with making Lilith an origin story of vampires. So no, this is not a vampire novel … but the next one I’ll mention is! “The Vengeful Lambs.” This one is a novella that I am sending out to publishers now. The story follows Sampson and Ruth as they travel the New Mexico desert after an encounter with a vampire. The story combines the claustrophobic feel of Phantasm and the grit of From Dusk till Dawn , along with some supernatural elements and Lilith mythos thrown in. Like my werewolf story, this one gives a fresh, original take on vampires, while also staying true to some of the things we have come to love about these creatures of the night. Speaking of night, let’s talk about another upcoming novelette of mine called “Night of the Blood Cum.” Yes, you read that right, and it is exactly what you think. It is about a giant, demonic sperm that wreaks havoc on a redneck family from Alabama. In an unforeseen event, the jizz of an ancient Warlock drips on a Ouija board. The demon sperm is born and if not stopped, all humanity will succumb to its wrath. The only hope is a redneck named Jim. Aided by the ghost of his dead buddy Earl (who died in a bungee jumping accident from stringing old underwear bands together), Jim must find a way to kill the sperm and make it sterile. Fans of Tucker and Dale vs. Evil- style horror will love this story. Coming soon from Godless. KB: Dude, you are utterly fascinating. Any upcoming appearances where fans can find you? EK: I’m a regular on the panel for the Professional Paranormal Research YouTube channel. You can find me there a few times a month. Over the past two months, I’ve done shows with Citywide Blackout, Raven Tale Publishing, The Magical World of G. Michael Vassey, AfterRot, and Panic Room Radio. I’ll be back on Ghostly Talk for the third time this January, talking to them about the paranormal and my recent and upcoming releases. KB: Any new or upcoming releases? EK: Yes! In 2023, “The Mourning,” book three of “The Dreadful Death” series will be released, as well as “Johnny Walker Ranger: Demon Slayer, Vol. 2.” KB: What’s next for Ezekiel Kincaid? EK: In February, my fiancée, my kids, and I will be going to Kentucky again to join Dustin from Professional Paranormal Research to do another investigation. I’m also hoping to get an agent soon, as well as expand my audience by finding new shows to appear on. I also have some new stories and books that I’m preparing to write: “One Flesh” (psychological/body horror), “The Whore House Massacre” (1970’s grindhouse-style horror), “The Tetromet Tapes” (found footage-based novella in my Theodosia/Tetromet universe), and “The Man in Black” (next book that chronologically takes place after “The Dreadful Death” series). There’s more, but I’m not giving away all my secrets. So there you have it, folks. Right from The Paranormal Pastor / Pastor of Horror’s mouth. You can find him, his books, his interviews and recordings, and his congregation online at https://theparanormalpastor.square.site , Amazon , Twitter @EzekielKincaid, and Instagram @ezekielkincaid. Happy reading, bookworms! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Sharktopus vs Whalewolf Ezekiel Kincaid Share Aug 14, 2023 Sharktopus vs Whalewolf has its moments but is ultimately a flop Rating: 2 out of 5 aging MLB players whose career is tanking Welcome to the movie that tanked Casper Van Dien’s acting career! Ha ha, just kidding. His career was over not too long after he did Starship Troopers in 1997. With that said, if you’ve hung around the B-movie scene for any amount of time, you’ve probably heard of the Sharktopus movies. So what the hell is Sharktopus? It’s a genetically altered shark with the upper torso of a Great White and the lower torso of an octopus. Yes, it is a shark with tentacles. Got your attention? Sounds pretty cool, right? And it is, or it was—right up until Sharktopus vs Whalewolf . Sharktopus vs Whalewolf (2015) is the third installment of the Sharktopus film series and is the second sequel. It was directed by Kevin O’Neill , who only has a short six titles to his directing credit—none of which you’ve probably seen, unless you watched Dinoshark (2010) or Sharktopus vs Pteracuda (2014); he did, however, work on visual effects for Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992), Blade (1998), and Piranha 3D (2010). Sharktopus vs Whalewolf stars Casper Van Dien ( Starship Troopers, Alita: Battle Angel ), Catherine Oxenberg ( Dynasty, The Lair of the White Worm ), Andrew E. Tilles (visual effects for Surrogates and Fast Five ), and Akari Endo ( Cristo Rey ). The plot is pretty basic and picks up where Sharktopus (2010) and Sharktopus vs. Pteracuda (2014) left off: Somewhere in the Caribbean at an anti-aging clinic, a psychotic genetic scientist named Dr. Elsa Reinhardt (Oxenberg) mixes the genes of a killer whale and a grey wolf, because, well, we’ve all been curious, haven’t we? In an experimental process, she then inserts the genetic mix into Felix Rosa (Tilles), an aging, disgraced Major League Baseball player whose career is tanking; Rosa hopes the experiment will be a success and that his talent will be restored, but the experiment goes awry. Rosa turns into an unstable werewolf creature and in order to stabilize the wolf in him, Dr. Reinhardt adds Orca DNA and boom! We have a whalewolf —moreover, we have a whalewolf who now threatens Sharktopus’s territory. Things get a little out of hand when Sharktopus and Whalewolf meet … and fight. Sounds like the plot of your typical monster movie, right? Yeah, that’s because it is. There is a little sub-plot though, but it makes absolutely no sense at all. Sharktopus vs. Whalewolf opens with a funeral taking place on a boat for a burial at sea. The funeral is interrupted almost immediately with an attack from Sharktopus. As a result, a woman goes missing and, long story short, local police chief Nita Morales (Endo) throws Captain Ray (Dien) in jail. A local voodoo priest bails Ray out of jail and wants him to fetch the heart of Sharktopus to use in a ceremony as payment for this debt. Meanwhile, Inspector Nita Morales is trying to figure out what is going on with all the killings and whalewolf sightings; she thinks people have gone nuts until she sees the insanity for herself. The movie ends with a less-than-climatic battle between the two sea titans. Who wins? Really? Like I’m going to give that away in a review. You’ll have to watch for yourself to see who comes out on top in this borefest. My advice is to just skip to the end and watch the final battle. You won’t be missing anything, I promise. There were a few comedic scenes that made me chuckle, but the comedy falls flat and encourages several eye rolls, not in a good way. Sharktopus vs Whalewolf has its moments but is ultimately a giant flop, especially in the face of its Sharktopus predecessors. Let’s talk about the effects. The CGI in Sharktopus vs Whalewolf is pretty bad, which is kind of to be expected in a SyFy Original movie but is still a little shocking, given that the effects in both Sharktopus and Sharktopus vs Whalewolf were pretty decent--also given the fact that its director is the founder of a special effects production company called Flat Earth Productions. Here, the filmmakers didn’t even try to make their effects look real or even hide the fact they are using CGI. It’s almost like they are proud of what a crap job they did; instead of any really fun effects, we’re given pure CGI involving a ton of CGI blood spatter that honestly couldn’t look more fake if it tried. At least go for real-looking blood, balance out the visuals a bit. It made me long for the days when actors dressed up in rubber suits to play the monsters. Now, if we could get a Sharktopus vs. Whalewolf remake with people in rubber suits fighting (and starring Will Ferrell), I’d watch that. I’d also be good with Simon Pegg or Rainn Wilson in the starring role. Any takers out there who want to start working on a script? All in all, Zeke gives this movie 2 out of 5 aging MLB players whose career is tanking. Sharktopus vs. Whalewolf is currently streaming on Tubi, Crackle, Fubo, Freevee, and Amazon Prime and Video On Demand. Ezekiel Kincaid lives for horror and loves to watch it, write about, and talk about it, whether that be in his own horror novels or in reviews. His experience as a pastor and paranormal investigator brings everything he writes to life. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . 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“Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. < Back Dark Miles Releases Debut Single, "Your Heart is an Empty Street" Erica Machen Jan 26, 2024 Share “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. Music at its core is meant to transcend the boundaries of emotion and storytelling, and that’s exactly what the debut single from Portugal-based Dark Miles accomplishes. “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is a soul-stirring narrative set against a backdrop of sonic exploration unveiling a poignant expedition through pain on a journey of transformation and resilience. Accompanied by a gripping music video, “Your Heart is an Empty Street” gives the listener a glimpse of what’s to come in Miles’ upcoming debut album, "10 Miles into the Dark", which is slated for release in the coming months. Dark Miles is the solo project of Pete Miles, formerly Pedro Lima of MOSH. With “10 Miles into the Dark”, he has found an artistic shift. Influenced by the heavier spectrum of rock, Miles pays homage to iconic synth pop/rock sounds of the 80s and 90s, like Depeche Mode, David Bowie, and Iggy Pop, and echoes with references to grunge, goth rock, dark wave, and obscure avant-garde death metal. Miles skillfully employs these elements to complement the emotions found in his lyrics, and his deep and powerful vocals create an immersive auditory landscape mirroring the narrative. Credit: Photo provided by artist "Your Heart is an Empty Street" is full of lyrics expressing a harrowing journey towards self-liberation. Miles sings, "And there I go / to that empty street / with my open heart / as the others sleep," and paints a picture of solitude and vulnerability with a cold, damp floor. As the lyrics unfold, there's a sense of empowerment in facing turmoil head-on. The reoccurrence of not being alone and hearing a voice through the darkness signifies resilience in the face of adversity, and the fear and bleakness evoke feelings of strength that resonate with listeners on a profound level. The music video for "Your Heart is an Empty Street" is equally as impactful. As it unfolds into a cinematic thriller, it weaves a narrative that captures the essence of personal liberation after a tumultuous journey through physical and psychological abuse. As the video begins, the main character, portrayed with unruly dark hair and visible injuries, embarks on a road trip, where we see flashes of pills on a car seat that suggest a turbulent past. The anguished look she wears on her face hints at the scars left behind. Set against a sea of red and black, the visuals work to intensify the emotional depth fueling Dark Miles' sound. Combined with an auditory experience, “Your Heart is an Empty Street” likens to the moment when stitches are removed, and the relief of pain intertwines with the echoes of agony. The connection surpasses surface level and illuminates the darkest corners of the soul. As the video concludes, the driver appears exasperated as though she’s just experienced a metaphorical death. Credit: Photo provided by artist "Your Heart is an Empty Street" successfully establishes itself in the vein of alternative/synth pop rock, and its fusion of poignant lyrics, haunting visuals, and retro sounds surely set the stage for an album that promises to be a cathartic journey through the soul. As the anticipation builds for "10 Miles into the Dark," Dark Miles emerges as a force to be reckoned with, as he continues crafting narratives that transcends the boundaries of time and genre. “Your Heart is an Empty Street” is currently available on all streaming platforms. And stay tuned for the release of “10 Miles into the Dark”! For more information on Dark Miles, visit him online at any of the below-listed links: Facebook @DarkMilesBand Instagram @DarkMilesBand YouTube @DarkMilesBand Bandcamp @MusicDarkMiles *cover photo provided by artist Erica Machen is a beast when it comes to consuming, writing about, and reviewing music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Hollow Heroes music is a melodic masterpiece < Back Hollow Heroes: Rising Against the Trends Towards a Cohesive Sound Nicole Brice Sep 14, 2023 Share Hollow Heroes music is a melodic masterpiece Beers for breakfast, you say? Well, not exactly, but the newest single by Hollow Heroes does mention breakfast beers in its title, and with this clever nod to the frothy goodness known to many, I decided I needed to know more about this band. A group of well-rounded musicians make up Hollow Heroes , who hail from New Jersey . Since their inception in January of 2020, Hollow Heroes has been making waves in the industry, and in August of 2022, the band released their debut album Burn Another Bridge . While the entire album is a solid alt-rock offering, I must touch upon the opening track ' Save Me .' With captivating lyrics, heavy choruses, and crunching guitars, the transitions and changes in the melody complement this roller coaster of a song that reels you right in from the beginning and does not let up the entire six minutes it plays. Released August 18, 2022 The remainder of the album is a mashup of loud and heavy alternative rock that takes you on a sonic journey into an abyss of sound. These guys are on to something, so take note. With their latest single, ' Refuse (Breakfast Beers) ', the band has changed things up a bit to reflect more of a pop-punk offering reminiscent of Rise Against . Drawing inspiration from both Rise Against and Breaking Benjamin , Hollow Heroes is a band that is unafraid to explore the complexities of making music on a profound level, so who are these guys? Released July 14, 2023 Hollow Heroes are comprised of Alex White (vocals), Tom Riccoboni (drums), James Romano (bass), and CJ Palmisano (guitar). With all members being from various parts of New Jersey and drawing inspiration from their years of playing music in one capacity or another, be it the school band or independently, the band grew from an initial phone call between Alex and CJ , who played music together many years prior; after over an hour on the phone, the two decided to meet up to see what they could pull together. When COVID-19 hit, though, the guys were derailed a tad, but later in 2020, when they met up at The Burn Room in Jefferson, New Jersey, they ended up recording their first single, ' Alone .' By 2021, enough material was written to record the debut album, and the rest is history. I recently sat down to chat with the guys. No beer was present, but we did take a deeper dive into the meaning behind the title of their newest single and much more. Take a moment to read about Hollow Heroes and then go check out their music. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Obviously, you have the Rise Against element in your newest single, “Refuse (Breakfast Beers),” but collectively who would you cite as your musical influences? CJ : I’m really big into Metallica , Blink 182 , A Day to Remember James : I’m super into Parkway Drive , Silverstein , Circa Survive , Dance Gavin Dance … Tom : If you didn’t say Dance Gavin Dance , I was going to have a heart attack. (laughter) I think we all have a good overall consensus of bands that we all like. They kind of overlap. I think once me and James came on, we added more of a progressive vibe. I’m super into Dream Theater , Rush , and Periphery … stuff like that. So, that’s something the original two members weren’t as keen on. Alex : I grew up on Breaking Benjamin and it was the hardest thing I listened to in late high school as well as Rise Against . Our newest single is very influenced by them. MaM : So, Alex, when it comes to writing lyrics, do you prefer more of a poetic approach, or do you just come up with random ideas and then let them flow? Alex : It’s definitely ideas and let it flow. (laughter) No rhyme or reason. (laughter) Tom : Alex is the most go-with-the-flow person you will ever meet. Alex : When I write my stuff, vocals are kind of the last thing. Just kind of see what fits. I don’t like things that are overly corny or somatic, I must say. I don’t want it to sound stupid or too dramatic. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : So, leading into the new single you just released in July, can I get a little background info on the title? It’s a little confusing. (laughter) How did “breakfast beers” fit into the equation? (laughter) Everyone : It’s a bit of an inside joke with us and was the working title when we were trying to figure out the actual title. Tom hates it. Tom : I hate it, by the way. (laughter) Everyone : Yeah, everyone grew to like ' Breakfast Beers ' except for Tom. He was a sourpuss. CJ : We called it “breakfast beers” because we didn’t have the name yet. When we actually released the song, there was a vote to see if we would put “breakfast beers” in parentheses or not. The refuse part of it was all my dad. It was very random. We kept the inside joke, though, for the original Hollow Heroes fans who know it. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : With all the options for streaming these days, which platform do you guys prefer? Do you feel there are too many avenues to get the products out and should it be streamlined more for a cohesive offering? Tom : I think we’re past the point of no return with that to have an opinion and it’s almost as if you have to play the game. MaM : I can agree with that. Going back to your album, ' Burn Another Bridge ,' which is solid and I love it, you said you recorded it over the course of a year, but how long did it take you to actually write it? CJ : The writing didn’t take too long. There were songs that I had finished and there were songs that Alex had finished and maybe we just tweaked a few things here and there. The recording process was longer than the writing process. Alex and I worked out our schedule when we could, and we got the drums done in an entire weekend. The guitar tracks took the longest honestly. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : I wanted to touch upon the opening track, ' Save Me ,' and I wanted to get a little more info behind the lyrics because of how much they resonated with me. What inspired the writing of the song? Alex : Honestly, I wrote that song when I was 17 or 18 years old and I think there was a time when I was a little different than now and I had some dark things going on, but it was drawn from life experiences and things are better now. But it was some angsty teen issues. MaM : If you guys could share the stage with any band in the future, who would it be? CJ : It’s either Foo Fighters or Metallica for me. We fit in well with that crowd and those are my favorites. James : Number one would be Bad Religion and number two would be Silverstein . Alex : Rise Against and Blink 182 for sure. Tom : For me, it’s Dream Theater , even though we sound nowhere close to them. [They’re] the whole reason why I fell in love with music. My dad was a fan of their music and he’s always played their music in the car. They are easily my biggest influence and why I play drums. I also agree with Alex about Breaking Benjamin , too. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Last question – where do you see yourselves for the rest of 2023 and beyond? CJ : We’ve had a pretty busy year so far, and we did a show in January at a place called Jimmy’s in Kearney, NJ and that was the first show we had packed, and all of our friends and family were there. It was a great night and I think Tom can go on record that he got emotional that night. Tom : I did; it was kind of crazy. CJ : He did, it was a beautiful night. This summer has been so busy, too. In June we did a show in Hazlet, NJ and opened for Marc Rizzo of Ill Niño and Soulfly then less than a week later, we had the House of Independents show, where we met Jeff Crespi , and then in July, we had The Stone Pony show. Tom : Our biggest goal was to hit Asbury this summer and the whole Jersey Shore scene of rock, so we did it. CJ : We played Wonderbar in March, too, and from March until the end of this summer, we were just going. Tom : Yeah, then during that we released ' Refuse (Breakfast Beers) ,' so we were busy recording, too. … I think the rest of 2023 will be focused on writing more music, but not necessarily a new album or EP. With the months getting colder and not as many people getting out there, that’s what we’d like to do. Credit: Jeff Crespi As the band grows and experiments further, we feel they will continue to cultivate a loyal fanbase that will appreciate their authenticity and style of music. Their current offerings are only the tip of the iceberg, so stay tuned for more from Hollow Heroes and check out one of the links below! Facebook : Hollow Heroes Facebook Instagram : Hollow Heroes (@hollowheroesband) • Instagram photos and videos ‎ Apple Music : Hollow Heroes on Apple Music Spotify : Hollow Heroes | Spotify YouTube : youtube.com/@hollowheroes7816 Amazon Music : Hollow Heroes on Amazon Music Unlimited *Cover photo via band's Facebook *All other photos by Jeff Crespi www.jeffcrespirocks.com JEFFCRESPIROCKS See through a different lens! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nicole Brice isn't a huge fan of Breaking Benjamin, but she loves Rise Against. She highly recommends you listen to this band and if you would like her to check something out, then e-mail us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Goodbye Academy is a collective of brilliant musicians dedicated to the true artistry of making great music. < Back Goodbye Academy: Bringing Pop-Grunge to the Masses Nicole Brice Oct 31, 2024 Share Goodbye Academy is a collective of brilliant musicians dedicated to the true artistry of making great music. As a teenager from 1994 to 2000, I know a lot about music from that period. Music back then had a certain artistry to it. It was inspiring instead of being spiteful. It was playful yet powerful, but all in all, it had heart. An emerging Louisiana talent named Goodbye Academy is bridging the gap between current music and the favorites of the past with their conceptual and innovative tracks that take risks regarding different sounds and textures. Credit: Gary Governale How would I describe Goodbye Academy ’s sound? It’s a unique blend of pop-grunge with a hint of punk, yet in the grand scheme of things, they are truly alternative. Their sound would have resonated well in the early to mid-90s, and with the younger generations embracing the 90s culture, they are set to leave a lasting impression on the music scene. Goodbye Academy , a Baton Rouge-based group, is a collective of brilliant musicians dedicated to the true artistry of making great music. Their technical proficiency is evident in every note, and their music is a testament to their passion and dedication. With well-thought-out song titles that showcase their personality, reminiscent of the comedic antics of They Might Be Giants , Goodbye Academy is ready to make a significant impact on the music industry. Originating in the Hammond, LA area, but now claiming Baton Rouge as their home base, Goodbye Academy is comprised of Kris Ballard (guitar/vocals), Jake Shaver (bass/vocals), and Chase Chabaud (drums/vocals). The vocal styling reminds me of Jeremy Palaszewski from No Motiv meets Mark Lanegan from Screaming Trees . Credit: Gary Governale Having recently released their self-titled debut album , Goodbye Academy has crafted an album with no filler tracks and nothing but killer . Each song is more unique than the last. The album opens with a well-known phrase from a famous British comedy troupe that I adore: “ And now for something completely different .” Note: When I sat down to interview the guys, this was one of my first questions, and then we went around the table quoting the favorite famous British comedy troupe in our best British accents. There are heavy basslines throughout, too, and I’m a sucker for a heavy bassline. Jake is the classic tale of the need for a bass player turning into a guitar player taking up bass, but he’s pretty good at it and carves out a prominent and dominant sound in Goodbye Academy ’s music. I love it when a bass player stands out, too, like Craig Setari from Sick of it All . I always know a song by Sick of It All when it first begins because of Craig ’s bass playing. I have a feeling that as Jake refines his bass skills, he, too, will be one of those exceptional bass players who will stand out amongst the rest. Jake and Kris met while attending college at Southeastern Louisiana University in 2017 and have been inseparable ever since. You could say it was a meeting with destiny, in a sense. Chase is a humble and talented percussionist who combines rhythm into the packaged Goodbye Academy sound. With clever marketing and original graphics drawn by Kris Ballard , Jake developed the band’s brand identity through a unified, visually stunning website with a cohesive theme of nostalgia . Read on below. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Tell us a little about how you came together. A little band origin, if you will. Kris : Well, Jake and I met in 2017 at Southeastern’s Welcome Week / Orientation, and we became best friends instantly. We were hanging out and living in an apartment for a bit. It was horrible. Jake : It was like a 1-bedroom apartment with four people living there. Kris : Yeah, but like 20 people were there every day. (laughter) Kris : God forbid that only four people are in the apartment. (laughter) Kris : I played guitar and dabbled in stuff, but we didn’t really do anything musically for a while. We were messing around with making a song called, ‘ Two Worlds ’, back then, and after a couple years of knowing each other, I ended up writing ‘ Drywall ’ after going through a pretty bad breakup in my room at like 3 o’clock in the morning, with a headset microphone. I put this headset microphone up to the guitar and was playing it. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Hey, whatever you have to do, right? (laughter) Kris : The first version was so bad, and I put it on YouTube . We then started talking about it, so I did a second version, and it was at that point we decided we should actually make music and be a band. Originally, we were going to be an acoustic duo called Up N' Atoms , and we were playing together, for how long? Jake : Two years Kris : We made a couple of EPs, and Jake ended up meeting Chase at his work. He was like, ‘I met this guy at work, and he’s a drummer. We should go play with him.’ I was so nervous, too, when I went to Chase ’s house that I didn’t talk for over two hours. (laughter) Credit: Gary Governale MaM : That’s a great introduction. I want to play music with you, but I’m not going to talk to you. (laughter) Kris : I was terrified. There were microphones in the room, and every time I would talk, my voice would reverberate. (laughter) MaM : So, you guys share vocal duties. Generally, when it comes to singing the song, how do you decide that? Kris : It’s generally who writes it. MaM : What is more important, in your opinion, lyrics or sound? Kris : We might all have a different opinion on this. Jake : When listening to music, I tend to listen compositionally forward more than lyrically, but when I write, it’s lyrically forward with the composition on the back end. Kris : We’ll often write lyrics before he gets any instrumentation done. Chase : I’m the biggest metal head, so for me, I find the screams are an instrument of sorts , and they’re very valuable to the music. In execution, though, it all must sound right, so I would have to say the sound of the song matters more than the lyrics. Kris : When I write music, all the songs I wrote lyrics for have meaning. They have to mean something personally to me. Obviously, if I don’t like the way something sounds, I just drop the song, in general. I hyper-analyze and dissect all the lyrics first, though. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : I do that with every song. I get it. How would you describe the Goodbye Academy sound for someone who has never heard your music? Chase : This is actually a great segway into that. I’ve gotten a comparison to a genre I was unfamiliar with, called Midwest emo , and Rian stamped us as the genesis of a new genre called Southeast emo . MaM : But I don’t think ya’ll are emo. Chase : Midwest emo carries a similar style, and there are some bands like Hot Mulligan and Mom Jeans that carry the Midwest emo moniker, but it’s funny that we have been dubbed that. I don’t know if I would necessarily embrace the emo narrative either, but I think we carry more pop-punk and grunge elements, but I don’t want to limit what we do either. There is more to explore. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : That’s what I love about your band, though, because you don’t sound like any other band around here. That’s also what I love about Jean Claude Seagal , too. Their sound is refreshing, and that gives you an advantage. Keep the formula. Chase : I see similarities between how we approach music and Weezer . MaM : Love Weezer! That’s a good comparison. See, I would say They Might Be Giants . Have you heard of them? Goodbye Academy : Yes! Chase : They famously wrote the theme song to The Daily Show . I also think we have a lot of influence from Blink 182 with the way I play drums. There is also contrast in our vocalists because of the two different styles they bring. Jake : Someone recently actually described us as sounding like Hüsker Dü . Credit: Gary Governale MaM : That’s an excellent comparison! What do you guys listen to daily? Jake : I grew up on classic rock. Aerosmith , Led Zeppelin , AC/DC , Pink Floyd , etc. I started branching off into punk , though, and then actually fell into emo and prog. I ran into My Chemical Romance and Coheed and Cambria . Those two influences made me want to scream in my music with introspective lyrics. Get the anger out that I don’t normally express. It helps. Kris : My dad loves 90s music and some early 2000s, too, but bands like Barenaked Ladies , Blink 182 , Papa Roach , Weezer … that whole sphere …all of that was what I grew up listening to and what pushed me. I even loved Simple Plan , too. Jake : Fall Out Boy and Panic! at the Disco , too. Chase : I can’t end this interview without mentioning Meriwether . Meriwether and the bands of The Caterie were huge influences on me. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What is your ultimate goal for this band? Kris : I guess it’s changed over time. The band has always been an outlet for me because I can write down what I want to say better in songs. MaM : That sounds like me when I write my books. Kris : Right? As we’ve come together and have played shows, I’ve decided I would like to do this as a career. I really want to pursue it. I want to go on tour. Jake : I just want to play power chords. (laughter) Kris : I just want to take this moment to apologize to every sound guy that has ever had to check us. (laughter) Kris : Because we take so long. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Where do you say your greatest strengths and weaknesses lie as musicians? Kris : Chase’s weakness is that he’s extremely talented and thinks he’s god-awful garbage. (laughter) MaM : You’ve gotta give yourself more credit. Kris : My biggest weakness is probably the fact that I’ve fooled them into thinking I can play guitar. (laughter) Kris : I will practice the same song repeatedly. I don’t know a lot of chords. I know some scales. I don’t know what key I am playing ever … and then repeat it. My strength, I guess, is that I enjoy writing melodies and lyrics … and it’s in a key, but I have no idea what it is. (laughter) Credit: Gary Governale MaM : My brother – the riff from Blink 182’s ‘ Damnit ’ – dude … over and over … (laughter) Jake : I think my strengths are probably my ear because that’s how I play mostly. I can read music, but it’s not a strength. You’re good to go with your ear as long as you're adaptable. My rhythm hand, too, is a strength. My biggest weakness … I could go into so much … (laughter) Jake : I could pick myself apart. I have to work with the ADHD struggle of not always being able to rely on your ability. Sometimes it’s trying to recreate something you did, but not being able to. I do tend to do that quite a bit. Kris : (to Chase) So, if your biggest weakness is that you hate yourself, what’s your biggest strength? (laughter) Chase : I can combine different genres and musicians with my playing. I turn it into my own unique thing. When this band was a duo, they were melodious folk, and I wanted to make it more rock and roll. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Final question: Where do you see yourself in the next five years, or where would you like to be? Kris : I would like to be in the Midwest … no … (laughter) Kris : As much as I like having a stable income and a place to work that is nice and cares about me, I would like to play in a band as a job. Whether or not that can happen is something that I have low expectations for. (laughter) MaM : No, you need to stay positive. Kris : Yes, we manifest. MaM : Exactly. Jake : Next year, I’m hoping we can play some festivals and see if we can cross state lines to expand our reach. As our kids get older, I feel it will get easier. Chase : I want to accomplish the same as these guys, but I want to get what we have now recorded. MaM : Capture the magic. Chase : We already have the second album, and it's pretty much done. I know we’re approaching it fast, but I want to return to the studio with Nick . Nick Maggio is a phenomenal person. MaM : Yes, he is amazing! Kris : Even beyond his talent, he’s just incredible. MaM : He’s just a good person. Kris : He understands the sound and vibe we want. He connects with the music, too. Chase : I want to get in with Nick before anything is lost or goes further down the line. That’s one of my primary drives. I’ve wanted to be in a band my entire life making music, but I don’t want to sit on what we have. Let’s get this out and on record. More than just a band, Goodbye Academy is a group of best friends united by their love for music and their desire to share their art with the world. Their friendship and camaraderie are palpable in their music, making them more than just a band-they are a community of like-minded individuals looking to bring their art to the masses. Stay tuned for great things from these guys. To learn more about Goodbye Academy : www.goodbyeacademy.com *All photos by Gary Governale www.governalephotovideo.com Zenfolio | Home I have been working as a video professional since 1993, with a wide range of experience writing, producing, directing, shooting and editing. A strong interest in videography, specifically lighting and composition, led me to photography in 1998. Rapidly changing technology has blurred the line between video and photography, allowing me to work in both mediums.. Baton Rouge, LA, United States www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

What Have I Won harnesses a raw energy that only a punk band can achieve when they are unapologetically themselves. < Back Music Reviews by Nick: What Have I Won by Spiller Nick Cline Jul 28, 2025 Share What Have I Won harnesses a raw energy that only a punk band can achieve when they are unapologetically themselves. Spiller , Massachusetts' very own dad-punk band, is back to energize listeners with their latest release, What Have I Won . This three-song EP features the tracks ‘ What Have I Won ,’ ‘ December ,’ and ‘ Game of Pricks/Hocus Pocus .’ Released July 28, 2025 From start to finish, these songs harness a raw energy that only a punk band can achieve when they are unapologetically themselves. Each track has its own unique identity while still retaining the common sound that makes Spiller distinctly theirs. Punk music thrives on individuality, and Spiller has excelled in this regard. What Have I Won by Spiller This EP carries an intriguing essence that is hard to define yet reminiscent of something familiar. It embodies a uniqueness that is particularly prominent in the New England punk scene. The undeniable passion that runs through this community is palpable in every note across the EP—it's more than just sound. My personal favorite track is ‘ December .’ It's my top pick because it captures the powerful energy that Spiller aims for in their music. The passion is evident right from the first strum. As soon as the song begins, the intensity is felt, laying a strong foundation that carries throughout, and continues on with a captivating hook that keeps you engaged for the entire duration. With its melodies, powerful chords, 4/4 beats, and driving bass, the song draws you in, combining pop sensibilities with punk energy and the strength of early 2000s rock. Video for Game of Pricks / Hocus Pocus by Spiller I believe this EP would be a fantastic addition to anyone’s playlist. If you enjoy bands like Rancid , Dropkick Murphys , 2000s Green Day , and power-pop , then you’re sure to love Spiller . They serve as an electric reminder of how music can evolve while preserving its original power and evocative energy. Spiller captures a sound that is truly unique to them—it’s a personal "lightning in a bottle" moment that adds to their vibrant character. So, do yourself a favor and check out What Have I Won . You won’t regret it! To learn more about Spiller: Spotify: Spiller | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Spiller - Apple Music Bandcamp: spillerdadpunk.bandcamp.com Spiller Dadpunk from Boston. Former members of Gang Green, Underball, Jerry's Kids, Northern Skulls and Green Magnet School. Jack Clark, Greg Fiore, Glen Stilphen and Chris Pearson www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

“Demons” is a deep dive into personal struggles and triumphs. < Back Roger Ricks Confronts Inner Turmoil in New Single “Demons” Nicole Brice Jun 21, 2024 Share “Demons” is a deep dive into personal struggles and triumphs. Out today, June 21, 2024, is a brand-new single from Swiss musician Roger Ricks . Ricks, who hails from Zurich, Switzerland, has said of his latest offering, “The song is about the fact that the only way to achieve true freedom is to deeply engage with ourselves. Existing beliefs, fears, negative experiences, etc., prevent us from overcoming our old patterns and exploring new paths. By confronting our dark sides, we can overcome them and embark on new journeys that allow us to act, feel, and think more freely. The song aims to motivate not to remain in the status quo but to step out of one's shadow and look forward.” Click picture to listen “Demons” was composed and produced by Ricks himself and mixed by Nashville-based and Grammy-nominated producer/mixer/recording engineer Joe Carrell . “Demons” sounds like feel-good Southern Rock with an Americana vibe, and the proceeds from the song will go to Chance for Children ( www.chance-for-children.org ) just as all of the proceeds do from Roger Ricks’ music . Credit: Roger Ricks Roger is a true artist in every sense focused on making a difference for the better good of all children worldwide, and his music hits you with such heart that it’s overwhelming. The beginning of “Demons” starts with a haunting synth reminiscent of the opening sequence for the well-known and well-loved American TV series “ Stranger Things ” and leads into a crisp and clean guitar tone as the vocals kick in with just the right hint of raspiness. Roger’s voice is crystal clear, and as the song builds to the chorus, it morphs into a bit of a Tom Petty vibe with multi-layered textures. Tackling the subjects of moving forward, change, and the unknown, “Demons” is an intense journey of sound and one worth checking out if you enjoy just good old-fashioned rock music. To experience “Demons” for yourself or to follow Roger on social media, just hit one of the links below: Spotify: Demons - song and lyrics by Roger Ricks | Spotify Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rogerricksofficial Facebook: Facebook Apple Music: Roger Ricks - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

One studio drummer who's tearin' it up < Back Justin Holder: North Alabama's Self-Proclaimed Drummer Ho Keeley Brooks May 24, 2023 Share One studio drummer who's tearin' it up I love doing what I do because I stumble across so many independently talented artists—like musician Justin Holder, for example. If you live up in or close to the Muscle Shoals area of Alabama, chances are you know who he is and not just because of his super funky hairdo. Holder is the go-to drummer in North Alabama for studio work, and he’s also a live drummer. I first met him back in early 2022 when he sat in the drummer seat to accompany UNA Entertainment Industries Professor Dr. Charles Brooks on his Black History Month tribute to Jimi Hendrix, which was beyond badass and had everyone on their feet. In case you missed it, you can catch that show in its entirety HERE . For now, here’s a peek at Hendrix’s “Foxy Lady” mixed with a bit of “Purple Haze.” Brace yourselves, though—it will melt your face off in every aspect from melody to groove to overall musical experience. Each of the musicians on that project put on one hell of an outstanding show. Holder becomes another person when he sits in the captain’s chair, losing sight of everything but the drums and the groove. He plays masterfully with such professional intelligence and finesse that watching and listening to him sucks you right into the music to get lost in his rhythm. He’s always prepared to the nines, and he knows his shit. Don’t mistake anything about him, though; he’s a pro through and through. He studies hard the music he plays, and he keeps a notebook nearby full of meticulous notes so he doesn’t have to worry about what he’s going to hit; he can just be musical. He’s got an incredible ear and a gifted sense of awareness that allows him to play off the rest of the band. He’s able to mesh easily with other musicians, too. “He's a consummate professional,” says Brooks, “the very definition of a hired gun who can walk into any situation and not just adapt to a style but emulate it in a way that’s authentic to the source of origin and fresh for the listener.” I had to know more about this self-proclaimed drummer ho and go-to studio drummer (at least in the North Alabama area), so I sat down to rap with him about how he fell into studio drumming, what he loves most about everything he does, and what advice he has for up-and-coming drummers out there. Check out our conversation. MaM : Justin, thank you so much for taking the time to rap with me about your groovy talent and occupations. Are you a Muscle Shoals-area native or a transplant? Tell us about yourself. JH : Thank you for having me! I’m actually born, raised, and currently live in Florence, Alabama. I’m both a studio drummer and a live drummer. I started out as a live player and then converted over to studio work. I’ve wanted to do studio work my whole life. I grew up around it. I love it. MaM : It’s our pleasure! First, let’s address this “Drummer Ho” thing, because inquiring minds want to know its origin. Please, the floor is all yours. JH : (laughs) Well, I’m Justin Holder, and when JLo came out, my buddy started calling me “JHo” and it just stuck. I sign everything with that [moniker] and when I went to make an email, I just did DrummerHo because it fit. (laughs) MaM : Dude, that is hilarious. And awesome. It fits you perfectly. Never, ever change it, please. So, drummer ho, what type of equipment do you use to drum shit up, and what are your favorite symbols and sticks? JH : (laughs) I have a DW drum set and a 1969 Ludwig kit. But the current one I use is a Maple YAMAHA Custom kit. My preferred symbols are the companies. I'm sponsored with Sabian symbols and Vater drumsticks. credit: Justin Holder social media MaM : Has music always been a part of your life? JH : From birth, my dad was a musician and he toured around my whole life. He had a studio, so I would grow up just doing homework at his studio and listening to him mix. And, you know, all the legendary musicians from our area were there in my house, but I didn't know who they were. They were just guys my dad recorded with. So, I've been around music my entire life ever since I was born. MaM : What was your life like during middle school and high school? Were you playing any music then? If not, where were you headed after graduation? JH : So, during middle school and high school, that's all I did. I mean, coaches gave me a hard time because they wanted me to play sports and I was like, ‘Nah, I'm just gonna play drums.’ (laughs) So, I did. We had a band called Salvatron and I was in a band called Prototype, and we played a bunch of churches and stuff like that. One was a punk band, hardcore. So, different kinds of music all through my high school and middle school days. And I played at church, of course, with my dad. That's where I first got my start. I remember it was a Tuesday night and it was a worship night … he let me get up, and I was just terrified. And there were seven people in the auditorium or whatever. But, after graduation, nothing was really going on here. I graduated in 2001 and moved to North Carolina with a guy named Will McFarlane; we just wanted more opportunity in life. MaM : When did you know you wanted to play drums? JH : Oh, I knew from the first time I saw Animal from The Muppets. He was in a tree singing ‘Rockin’ Robin,’ and I saw his drum set and just went, ‘Whoa.’ And that was it. I remember just being a young kid, I had pots and pans I would beat on. And my dad, like I said, was in a band, so I saw all the drummers. MaM : (laughs) Ah, Animal. He was the best. Do you remember your first live show as a drummer? JH : Of course, I do. But my dad and Will McFarlane were the first two that gave me an early shot to play live. I think I was, gosh, maybe 13? And I can't remember which one of them it was, but one of them paid us 50 bucks and it was just like, ‘Wow, I can do this and make $50?!’ (laughs) credit: Justin Holder social media MaM : Haha. Hey, fifty bucks is fifty bucks, man! Do you ever get nervous at live gigs? JH : I did, and I still do, to this day, get anxiety and nervous. [I could have a gig] in front of four people [and I’d} still get nervous. And I love that, because once those nerves are gone, you might as well give it up, start something else that makes you nervous, and get your blood flowing. But I always have a process, kind of, when I have to learn a lot of songs. I cram, cram, cram, cram. And I constantly question myself and think, ‘I'm never gonna remember all this. I'm not. I'm just not.’ So, I let it go. The night before [and] the next day, I wake up freaking out, [saying to myself], ‘You're never gonna remember all this.’ But as long as I do my due diligence and notate everything—I need to notate on a piece of paper or chart—I can make it through anything, and I've figured that out along the way. And so, but I still get nervous for any show, really. When I'm setting up, once I hit that first note, I'm comfortable—maybe the first song, sometimes, depending on how much I'm feeling or how much I've drunk. But usually everything works out. The moment I hit that first note, I'm like, ‘Okay, you do remember this. You've practiced, you know what you're doing.’ So, yes, I do still get nervous at live gigs. MaM : I can dig that, man. I know many people can. What does playing drums mean to you as an artist? What is drumming a source of for you? JH : For me, it's a source of … that's a good question. My father was a musician, so for me, it's, it was important to be a musician like him. That was, to me, I guess being a man back then. As an artist, the drum is the groove you know because when we're in the studio and I'm listening to something and the guitar players listening to something, we're listening to totally different things. He's going to accomplish one thing, I'm going to accomplish another, but we're gonna tie them together. So, you have a room full of guys that kind of know what they're doing and [know] what to look for, and, you know, I'm not hearing melodic changes a lot. I'm hearing rhythmic changes and timing, so as a drummer, I'm totally focused on the groove, the timing, what the tempo should be, and just how to make the song better. It's always about making the song better. That's why we check our egos at the door, first and foremost, because that could definitely get in the way. There's no ego involved. It's just whatever is best for the song. MaM : What does your evolution as a drummer encompass from where you started versus where you are now? JH : Wow, I'm only 40 years old, and I feel like lately I've kind of just been like, ‘You know what? This is easier than I thought it was.’ … But where I was to now, it's just experience, honestly. I mean, 10 years ago, I wouldn't have listened to what I know now, because I would think I'm not gonna have to do all that, like country and blah, blah, this, and this, and now it's like, ‘That's my job.’ So, knowing a lot of different types of music [and being able to] instantly relate to an artist [by being] aware of where they're coming from, that’s my job—to understand where people are coming from and to know what they mean by saying this, this, and this. MaM : What do you love most about what you do? JH : My dad was a musician, and all I ever wanted to do was play music because I saw him do it. He passed away 13 years ago, and I'm just continuing the legacy. Studio work is forever. Live gigs are in one ear out the other. But when you track a song, it's there forever. And that's what I love about the studio. I love the fact that it's an art in the studio. It's decisiveness. It's a gut feeling. It's gut reaction. But I love the excitement and not knowing what I'm getting into. credit: Justin Holder social media People always said, ‘You want me to sing any songs beforehand?’ Nope, I don't. I want to meet the artist the day of. They're gonna look at me all weird, I'm gonna look at them all weird, and then all of a sudden, with the first time we kick into a song, or they hear me do a drum check, they're like, ‘Okay, I feel good now; this guy's good.’ So, that's what I love about studio. It's forever, and there's an art form to it, and getting better at this art form is really fun. MaM : That’s beautiful, man. Well, I know you're in a couple of bands, so tell us about them. JH : So, one band I'm in is called Drumb and Drumber with a guy named Chad Berdine. I play guitar and sing and play some hand drums. It started because I needed to pay my utility bill and drums weren't paying me a lot. (laughs) I didn't have a lot of work when i moved [back] here twelve years ago, and I didn't want to get a job, so I said, ‘You know what? I can play some covers,’ and I did it one night [and realized] I don't need to rely on anybody else anymore. I can do this all on my own. And then Chad came to me and said, ‘Let me play with you.’ Next thing you know, we called it Drumb and Drumber. We've opened McDonald's for corporate events, we've played at the National Predators Game nine times or something like that, and now he owns wedding venues. So primarily, we do a lot of weddings. I’m also in another group called Fathers and Sons . We put this together just for us. It's a bunch of studio guys: Jamie McFarlane, Kelvin Holly, Will McFarlane, Janet McFarlane, and C Thurman and me. We play whenever we get booked, but we mainly play every Tuesday night at FloBama Restaurant in downtown Florence from 7-10 p.m. We kind of put that together just for us to get our rocks off … cut loose and play. We just wanted to put together a band and have fun and do some songs that we wanted to do. I also play with a guy named Cole Nichols, but my other project is Gary Nichols. I've been playing with Gary for a long time, and he's a Grammy winner with The Steel Drivers who won Bluegrass Album of the Year. He and I just recorded his new record, and we're gonna be putting that out, hopefully see where that goes. I’m also currently playing with Dixie Mafia. So, a lot of exciting things on the horizon mixed in with also doing session work, you know? MaM : When did you become a session drummer? How did you fall into that? JH : My dad was a studio musician and [I grew] up around all The Swampers (aka The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section ) here in town. There's something special about recording. It really is special. I've grown up around it and I've seen the art form my whole life, so I wanted to do that. When I moved back from North Carolina to Muscle Shoals, I knew … there were session guys and they were getting the work, but, you know, they were all aging. And I hate to say it that way, because we had some greats: Bob Evans, Roger Clark, Milton Sledge, Roger Hawkins, and Mike Dylan, who's still around with us. But … there was a need for more drummers, I have to say it. So, I moved back and plugged myself in, and I got really close with the guys at Fame Studios , and they just started using me slowly but surely. And next thing you know, twelve years later, I feel like I'm the go-to guy. I don't wanna call myself that, but I'd like to think that I am, you know? I'm still aspiring to be ‘that guy’ and get better at things. I've sacrificed a lot to be a session drummer. I probably could have been on the road playing with other people, but I knew that that session drumming is what I wanted to do. I wanted to get better at that. I could get better at being a live player and going out and networking and schmoozing my way up the ladder like anybody could do, you know, but I wanted to plug away at the studio … because it's forever. It's very special to me and my father all that kind of stuff. credit: Justin Holder social media MaM : Drop some big names you’ve played with over the years. JH : Little Richard, Delbert McClinton, Kris Kristofferson, Foy Vance, Jason Isbell, John Paul White, Rick Hall, Jim Gaines, Jimmy Hall, Shenandoah, Donny Fritz, The Swampers, T. Graham Brown—I’m on his new record, which features Sammy Hagar, Billy Gibbons, and Daniel Tucker—but that hasn't come out yet. Those are just a few names. There’s many more. MaM : Your life must be pretty busy. Given all that you do, how do you find a balance between working, playing, and home life? JH : I'll be honest with you, I struggle at that a lot of times, because I'm a kind of guy who if I'm working from ten in the morning until ten at night, I'm gonna have time to myself in that night … I can't just come home and go to bed. I have to have my personal mental quiet time. I play Fortnight with my wife a lot. (laughs) I'm not a gamer, but something about that is very peaceful after I’ve been in the studio dissecting songs all day. It's not physically tiring on me; it's mentally draining. And that's tough. credit: Rachel Neal Pictures I have a 14-year-old daughter and a wife. We find our ways to bond with each other. I still am challenged with finding a balance in everything. Right now, I'm in a season of just working as much as possible. And whenever somebody calls me, I go; I'm a yes man. … I don't get a lot of days off, and so when I do, I do nothing … absolutely nothing. MaM : Any advice for those interested in maybe becoming a studio drummer? JH : If you're interested in becoming a drummer, the first thing I could tell you to do that I wish somebody would have told me to do is to suck it up, nancy boy, and listen to every kind of music you don't like! If you wanna be a studio guy, you're gonna do a lot of shit that you don't wanna do. And it's not that you can't find the joy in it, it's just, ‘Wow, this isn’t really my cup of tea. I don't really listen to this.’ Well, you f**king need to listen to it because you're gonna need to know how to do this kind of stuff in the studio. And I've learned that along the way. I was stubborn and didn't want to do that. And guess what? [They’ll just get] somebody that can do it. So, in my opinion, if you want to be an overall versatile player that gets called all the time, you gotta listen to so much crap you don't like and stuff you do like. If you want to be a Tik-Toker, you want to be a YouTuber, you wanna be a live drummer, go practice all the chops and the licks that you can do, get as fast as you want. But if you want to become a session studio drummer, nine times out of ten, you're not gonna get called for that. You know, they always say a bad drummer makes a good band sound bad, and a good drummer makes a bad band sound good. And that's very true. All an artist needs us to do is be the anchor and be the groove. So, I would say listen to every style of music there is [and] give yourself seven days out of the week. One day do jazz. Second day do country. Third day, do another genre. And just dissect how drumming is different in each one of those categories, because that's what you're gonna be using when you come into the studio. Also, learn how to tune a f**king drum set. I probably get hired more because of my tuning than I do my playing. And learn fundamentals. I think the three basic rudiments to start off with are singles, doubles, paradiddles. And there you have it, folks. Studio Drumming 411 from the studio drummer ho himself. To see Justin play live, you can catch him every Tuesday night at FloBama Downtown Restaurant and Music Venue in Florence, Alabama, from 7-10 p.m. Drumb and Drumber plays every other Thursday at the Marriott Inn in Florence from 5-7 p.m. at Swampers Lounge . For more on Justin Holder, hop over to YouTube and search “Justin Holder Drummer” or “Justin Holder Fame” and peruse through the many videos of him in the studio and elsewhere. You can also find Justin on Facebook @JustinHolderDrummer . www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? 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Hawthorne Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. < Back Reviews on the Real: Speak for a Minute by Hawthorne Oachs Nicole Brice Sep 10, 2025 Share Hawthorne Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. Hawthorne Oachs' voice, both angelic and haunting, floats like a whisper in her latest release, ' Speak for a Minute .' Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. Released September 9, 2025 Released on September 9, 2025, ' Speak for a Minute ' has a more rock-oriented vibe compared to her previous releases. The song kicks off with a lively energy, perfectly complemented by Hawthorne's ethereal vocals. Lyric video for 'Speak for a Minute' This powerful track serves as a reflection on humanity’s unraveling and a bold call to change the status quo. The song confronts how power and greed have distorted our true nature. As the world faces turmoil, it’s time to raise our voices, and Hawthrone is leading the charge with each new release. As a songwriter with wisdom that belies her years, Hawthorne stands on the precipice of something extraordinary. Her music radiates a rare beauty that feels timeless, and her lyrics cut straight to the heart. She reveals truths that many try to conceal, weaving them into melodies that shimmer with both vulnerability and strength. “This death is irreversible. How could anyone not see it?” Hawthorne sings as she transitions into the chorus of "If I Could Speak for a Minute..." More than just a singer-songwriter, Hawthorne is a storyteller of the soul, crafting songs that resonate with honesty and pulse with emotion. ' Speak for a Minute ' is no exception. The lyrics unfold like pages from a diary, delicate yet unflinching, providing comfort through poignant expressions. Don’t take it from me, though; experience ‘ Speak for a Minute ’ for yourself. It’s worth it. To learn more about Hawthorne Oachs: Spotify: ‎ Hawthorne Oachs | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Hawthorne Oachs - Apple Music YouTube: Hawthorne Oachs - Speak for a Minute [Official Lyric Video] Website: Musical Artist | Hawthorne Oachs www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Drop us a line at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The combination of riffs, vocals, lyrics, and rhythm creates a storm of energy that resonates throughout. < Back Music Reviews by Nick: Playing with Fire by Caustic Waves Nick Cline Jul 4, 2025 Share The combination of riffs, vocals, lyrics, and rhythm creates a storm of energy that resonates throughout. Caustic Waves is back with an exciting new track that promises to captivate your eardrums with a wave of dissonance, distortion, and raw emotion. Launched in 2022 by the sonic mastermind Neil Thomas , this Glasgow-based one-man band draws inspiration from the diverse rock landscapes of the 90s and early 2000s. With this unique blend of musical tastes, Caustic Waves offers something for everyone looking for a mix of Deftones , Incubus , and other legendary grunge artists. The latest single, ' Playing With Fire ,' continues to build upon this rich soundscape. Released July 4, 2025 From the very beginning, ‘ Playing With Fire ’ grabs your attention with an explosion of distorted guitars . Within seconds, the song erupts as the full instrumentation and vocals kick in. The combination of riffs, vocals, lyrics, and rhythm creates a storm of energy that resonates throughout the entire track. Maintaining listener engagement has become a challenge in today’s music industry, but Caustic Waves achieves this effortlessly. The guitar tones and riffs are unmistakably hook-oriented, offering a subtle nod to the great metalcore projects of the early 2000s while also incorporating high-energy alternative influences from the 90s. There are very few complaints regarding the bass and guitar performance, which showcases a steady sense of melody and electrifying energy, creating a powerful musical storm. Overall, the single features impressive guitar and bass work, with excellent use of tone, riffs, and melody. The official lyric video for 'Playing With Fire' by Caustic Waves The song's rhythm provides a solid foundation that interacts like a living, breathing entity. This dynamic is one of my favorite aspects of the track. Although the high energy can sometimes overshadow this intricate interplay, paying attention reveals an effortless flow from beginning to end, capturing the crackle of flames to the first note, all the way through to the final crash of the cymbals. The vocals and lyrics convey a deep sense of emotion and a hopeful rage. The melodies tie the energy together, reflecting an intertwining of rage and a sense of hopeful embrace. This complex idea is executed with both intention and ease, allowing for a smooth dichotomy alongside the instrumentation. All these elements combine to create a sonic palette that will appeal to a wide audience. If you're a fan of 90s and early 2000s alternative and hard rock, you've found a new artist and track to add to your playlist. Caustic Waves delivers another standout single that connects seamlessly with their previous work. ' Playing With Fire ' is out now on all streaming platforms, so go enjoy! For more information about Caustic Waves: CAUSTIC WAVES | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Just Look Up and Let Go < Back Awake and Alive: How Mod Sun Shifted My Outlook Rian Nickels Jul 11, 2025 Share Just Look Up and Let Go “Every good story needs an intro, so where does this one start? No veils, no curtains, no doors, no walls between what pours out of my hand on to the page, a dream, of course, an American tale of finding magic in the everyday, and acting totally instinctively, a suitcase and a train track on a search for identity, and a quality that entices attention, we’re young and incredibly ambitious, our possibilities are endless, just look up” - Mod Sun In the summer of 2014 , I walked into my skate buddy’s apartment and saw a man on TV that I can only describe as hippy Jesus. He was in a room of lava lamps and beaming with joy. His energy demanded my attention, and his happy-go-lucky vibe was infectious. He was moving like life never hurt him. The music video was ' My Hippy ' by Mod Sun . What started as any other summer afternoon ended up changing the way I viewed life. Music video for 'My Hippy' by Mod Sun Growing up, I listened to a lot of emo and post-hardcore ; bands like Silverstein and Hawthorne Heights shaped the way I looked at things. As a teenager, I romanticized sadness. Music about self-harm, self-hate, and toxic love didn’t just soundtrack my life; it started to define it. Those lyrics told me it was normal to feel broken, to treat myself poorly, and to accept the kind of love that left scars. I became fluent in hopelessness and comforted by the idea that it would never get better. But one musician changed everything. So, who is Mod Sun? Well, to the government, his name is Derek Ryan Smith (he changed it to Dylan). However, to his friends and fans, he goes by the nickname Mod . MODSUN is an acronym that he created that stands for “Movement On Dreams Stand Under None” . This means pushing towards your biggest dreams, not letting anyone stand in your way, and never letting anyone overshadow you. I fell headfirst into Mod Sun’s world. His lyrics weren’t about heartbreak or giving up; they were about being glad to be alive. (That on its own was so foreign to me.) His music introduced me to positive thinking, setting intention, and the idea that your thoughts shape your reality. In 2015 , Mod released his first studio album, Look Up , and suddenly the spaces in my head that once echoed lyrics like “cut my wrists and black my eyes” were being replaced with “if you woke up, you got a reason to celebrate.” But I wasn’t abandoning my sad girl roots; I just wasn’t stuck in it anymore. The new music didn’t erase my sadness, but it helped me realize I didn’t have to be defined by it. This new outlook didn’t stay confined to my headphones. It seeped into my day-to-day; how I spoke, how I carried myself, and how I connected to others. When summer of 2015 came around, it only made sense that the next chapter to this transformation would happen in the same place it started. A place where the new and old could collide: Warped Tour . Just me at Warped Tour 2015 There’s something poetic about going back to the scene of your former self. It’s the same music festival, the same heat, and the same eyeliner, but with a new perspective. Warped Tour wasn’t just a concert, but a nod to the person I was becoming. I spent the day reliving my emo roots, but I was really there to see Mod in the flesh. The crowd wasn’t the largest, but you wouldn’t have known it by his energy. When he performed ' Howlin’ at the Moon ', a song about having gratitude, the entirety of the crowd knew every word. This brought him to tears; he could see that what he was doing mattered to people. They liked this new sound, but they enjoyed seeing someone savor every drop of life even more. On my way out of Warped , I gave Mod a bracelet that read “Sup My Hippy,” and he signed the book I bought from his merch table. The bracelet I made A video I took at Warped Tour 2015 His book , Did I Ever Wake Up? looks like a memoir, but it turns out to be a handbook for self-perseverance—something between a diary and a mental toolkit. The book covers his upbringing and music career, but it also shares overlapping messages with his music. The idea is that you must know what you want and be sure that you can obtain it. This made me realize that I didn’t really know what I wanted from life. But what I did know was that I didn’t want to be the person who brought the rainclouds to every room. I wanted to be a light for the ones who were lost in the same kind of darkness that I had once claimed as my identity. Released December 15, 2012 The best book ever! After setting that intention, things already began to shift; even small things that I didn’t realize held so much weight. I started wearing things that just made me feel happy instead of trying to be a particular aesthetic. Just Me! Me again! I picked up art again. I got his signature tattooed to remind me to keep going. I stopped seeing pain as something I owed myself. I realized that my body wasn’t a canvas for punishment or a notebook for all the things I couldn’t say. I didn’t stop being sad overnight, but I no longer built my entire life around it. My tattoo! Signed by the man himself! The one and only Mod Sun! I stopped looking down at all the ways things could end and started to look up at the possibilities. I shared these ideas with anyone who would listen, and I lent out Mod’s book to whoever would read it. I talked about gratitude, intention, and the law of attraction. It started to catch on; my friends began to show more compassion, let go of bitterness, and embrace possibility. What started as a personal awakening began to ripple through my community. A video I made Friends! In the spring of 2016 , Mod Sun had a tour stop near me in New Orleans . Some friends and I took the drive to see him perform. When Mod got to the venue, he didn’t hide away like most well-known musicians. He stood out front and talked with each person who wanted to. Just me talking to Mod Sun in New Orleans When it was showtime, he didn’t take a special door through the back but instead walked through the front like everyone else. They always say not to meet your heroes, but after meeting him, I was stunned at how normal it felt. There was no barrier, no ego, or celebrity attitude. He was human. He treated us like old friends, laughed with us, danced with us during the opener, and radiated the same energy on and off the stage. Credit: Rian Nickels The best day ever! Life has a way of putting what you’ve learned to the test, though. The months after that show brought some of the darkest points of my life. I lost some friends to addiction and depression. Somewhere within the mess, I’d lost myself too. I left all the tools I learned behind when I needed them the most. I was dealing with the weight of things I never had to carry before, and Mod’s relentless positivity became a language I was no longer fluent in. That was until Spring of 2017 when he released his second album, Movie . After months of being distant from him, this project dragged me back in. Movie wasn’t just party anthems and affirmations; it was about heartbreak, self-blame, fake friends, and the messy parts of healing. This album met me right where I was. It showed me that Mod wasn't some out-of-touch optimist that was blind to the bad; he walked through it, too. It showed me that his life wasn’t perfect, that he, like anyone else, had dealt with insecurity, loss, and adversity. This album gave me a song for everything I was going through. Even when things got heavy, Mod Sun was there to remind me to keep pushing. Regardless of the trauma, mistakes, or loss, you still have to get back up and make something of yourself. I was reminded that growth doesn't mean avoiding pain. There is no light without darkness. By the end of 2017 , Mod Sun released his third album , BB , and it came with a renewed sense of joy. It echoed that same optimism from Look Up , but now it came from someone who was more grounded. It came from someone who had seen the dark and chose the light anyway. BB reminded me that life comes with highs and lows, and that after each low, there will always be a high, even if it takes a while to come. Just me! So excited! In the years after Mod Sun dabbled in other creative outlets like painting, making clothes, and writing more books. But in 2019 , he did something lifesaving; he decided to get sober . He came clean about his battle with addiction and how it had affected his life and the people around him. He was transparent, and he apologized. Before this, I had never seen anyone successfully get sober, and more importantly, I had never really seen anyone own their mistakes, take accountability for them, and follow that up with action. I had watched so many people lose themselves in addiction, and this was the push I needed to take my own steps in that direction. So, I tattooed the words “Look Up” on my foot; it serves as a permanent reminder, and I haven’t touched those substances since. My tattoo Around the pandemic , Mod Sun’s sound started to shift from his signature Hippy Hop to a more angst-driven Alternative Rock vibe with albums like Internet Killed The Rockstar and God Save The Teen . Nowadays, Mod has blended the sounds of Hip-Hop and Pop-Punk, bouncing around all the avenues he’s taken and still exploring new ones. My playlists bounce between genres and moods these days, but Mod’s impact on me never faded. I like to think that Mod and I both found a way to appreciate the balance of life. To hold space for the dark and the light. To carry both joy and grief. To dance with the highs and sit with the lows. To know that you can wear tie-dye one day and all black the next. That sadness and happiness don’t cancel each other out but instead coexist. That growth isn’t about being brand-new. It’s about fully accepting yourself in every season of life. That healing doesn’t mean erasing the past; it means making something out of it. Because of Mod Sun, I’ve done things I never thought I’d be capable of. I’ve finished things I used to abandon. I’ve started projects that scared me, I’ve chased dreams that felt too big and believed that I was allowed to yearn for more. He helped me believe that I was allowed to have big dreams and that, more importantly, I could reach them. His lyrics planted the seed that I wasn’t just meant to survive, I was meant to build a life worth showing up for. He didn’t just help me get better; he showed me that I could save myself. Not everyone vibes with his music or his message. Some people think he’s cringeworthy, or they can’t look past his mistakes. No matter how he’s perceived, it doesn’t undo the impact he’s made. Mod Sun is living proof of the power of believing in yourself. He showed a bunch of broken people that they didn’t have to stay broken. He showed us the path less traveled, and reminded us to keep traveling it. If you take anything from this, let it be this: What you say to yourself holds power. Show yourself some love because you’re still here, waking up every single day. Still building who you’re meant to be. Permit yourself to dream bigger. Remember that your impact on the world matters. Do something that inspires people. Find something to celebrate in each day. Make your life a movie. Don’t forget to look up. “No matter the amount of negativity you’re presented with, five minutes from now could be your best moment.” - Mod Sun To learn more about Mod Sun: www.modsunmusic.com Mod Sun Merch Shop the Official Mod Sun Merch Store for exclusive merch including tees, hoodies, accessories, & more! Find details of the Mod Sun tour, Mod Sun tickets, & Mod Sun music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Chill Fest 2024 unquestionably lives up to its name and is an incredible opportunity to hear local music and support the community’s young musicians. < Back Chill Fest 2024 Music and Arts Festival Bud Gambrell Jan 25, 2024 Share Chill Fest 2024 unquestionably lives up to its name and is an incredible opportunity to hear local music and support the community’s young musicians. The inaugural Huntsville Winter music and arts festival known as Chill Fest 2024 happened on Saturday, January 13, in downtown Huntsville, Alabama. Presented by The Quantaphonics in partnership with Huntsville Music Scene, Downtown Huntsville, and The Camp at MidCity, the festival’s sole purpose is to help area families access quality music education by raising funds for the Huntsville City Schools band programs. Chill Fest Music and Arts Festival unquestionably lived up to its name and was successful in establishing itself as an incredible opportunity to support the community's young musicians and enjoy some fantastic music. Chill Fest was originally scheduled for early December, but it was postponed due to the threat of severe weather. When I learned about it, I remember wondering what an outdoor music event in January would be like in North Alabama, even though it’s in the South. Generally, mid-January is quite chilly and is sometimes susceptible to Winter storms of ice and snow. Luckily, any snow and ice held off until after the festival. When I arrived at the event location, it was 42 degrees, and by the time I left, the temperature had plummeted to near freezing. Chill Fest occurred at The Camp at MidCity , and I must say I was thoroughly impressed with the amount of effort that went into organizing this event. Apart from a spacious performance stage, there was also an artist market, food trucks, and games to keep the children entertained. To add to the excitement, local brewery Straight to Ale canned a special "Chill Out" beer exclusively for the event. Music entertainment was, of course, the main attraction of the day. All music was performed by talented local artists, such as Mae C. Jemison and Columbia High School Bands. The local bands that took the stage included Rocket Harmony, Huntsville Drumline, Wade Brown, You Gene Write, Element XI, Them Damn Dogs, Dave Anderson, Trevor Lee featuring DJ PrimeTime256, and event organizers The Quantaphonics. One would expect an event titled Chill Fest to be, well, chill, and this event didn’t disappoint. Despite the cold weather, it was clear that the organizers succeeded in creating a family-friendly environment. However, it was more than that: There was a palpable sense of camaraderie and fellowship that pervaded the entire event. It felt like everyone there was in a great mood, and I felt like I either knew or would soon get to know everyone in attendance. For those of you who are in or around Huntsville, I highly recommend keeping an eye out for the announcement of Chill Fest 2025. Put on some gloves and thick socks, and head over to enjoy this fantastic event. It can't get any better than this. You get to spend time outdoors, listening to great music and bonding with fellow attendees. And the best part is that the event supports music for children, so you get to have fun while contributing to a good cause. “I couldn’t have asked for a better inaugural festival,” said event organizer and lead singer of The Quantaphonics Leon Jordan. “The community showed up and showed out! We learned a great deal throughout the process of hosting a music/arts festival, and we plan on continuing our efforts for years to come. Chill Fest is here to stay to aid not only our Huntsville youth in music but also the small business owners and artists of Alabama.” For further information on Huntsville’s Winter music and arts festival, visit www.quantaphonicsband.com CHILL FEST — Quantaphonics *All photos by Bud Gambrell with Dragonfly Imagery www.dragonflyaerialimagery.com Dragonfly Aerial Imagery Dragonfly Aerial Imagery is a locally owned and operated photography business in North Alabama. Call or email us today for an appointment. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

“Chin Up, Kid” is a refreshing take on introspection, combining the emotional intensity of alt-rock with the edginess of 90’s punk and grunge. < Back alltheprettythings: A Soul-Baring Alt-Rock Anthem Erica Machen Nov 7, 2023 Share “Chin Up, Kid” is a refreshing take on introspection, combining the emotional intensity of alt-rock with the edginess of 90’s punk and grunge. alltheprettythings is keen on changing the way you look at rock music. This music supergroup out of Wilmington, N.C., has combined musicians from bands you might know to make music you wouldn’t expect. alltheprettythings features current, previous, and touring members of Alesana , Emarosa , He Is Legend , and Chiodos , and their newest single “Chin Up, Kid” is a bad-ass anthem of deep introspection set to release next week. "Chin Up, Kid" is a dynamic blend of alt rock, punk, and hard rock that digs deep into the emotional struggles of the heart and brain. The song is a refreshing take on introspection, offering a unique perspective as it portrays a conversation between the heart and the mind, and the lyrics are a beacon of hope and encouragement for those who find themselves trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and overthinking. The band's lineup is brimming with talent, featuring (from L to R in the cover photo) Will Sowers on bass, Tristan Matthew on guitar, Logan Tabor on lead vocals, Worth Weaver as the band's producer and guitarist, and drummer Jeremy Bryan. They bring with them diverse experiences, melding together in creation of an incredible and eclectic mix. “Chin Up, Kid” is an emotionally charged yet uplifting song with the depth of emo rock highlighting the heart's desire to help the mind navigate the challenges of life. This concept comes through in the lyrics, where the heart urges the mind to call for support and not succumb to the weight of overthinking—something to which we all can relate. What sets "Chin Up, Kid" apart is its ability to combine the emotional intensity of alt rock with the edginess of '90’s punk and grunge. It's a song that resonates with those who appreciate both the emotional and the rebellious sides of music. With remarkable depth and emotional power to their music, alltheprettythings shouldn’t go overlooked—they are easily one of the most exciting bands producing music today. The band saw very warm reception with their single “Teenage Lines” , which showcases lead singer Logan Tabor’s otherworldly range. While each track released by alltheprettythings is impactful in its own way, “Chin Up, Kid” serves as a powerful introduction to any new listeners and a must-listen for fans of alt rock, punk, and hard rock. Mixed Alternative had the chance to rap with Logan Tabor, who brought insight into the song's inspiration and the band's creative process. Here’s some of our conversation with him. Logan Tabor - photo provided by artist MaM : Logan, thanks so much for chatting with me today! Let's dive in with the upcoming release of "Chin Up, Kid". When I listened, I thought it was heavy but in all the right ways. Could you share the inspiration and what fans can expect? LT : ‘Chin Up, Kid’ is an interesting one for me. I don’t usually write this way. I've explained it to my bandmates and others as conversation between your heart and brain. The line, ‘If you love me, why don't you call me?’ sets the tone for the entire song. It's like your heart is trying to reel back your brain from what it’s caused, saying, ‘If you're struggling, why don't you reach out to me, and I can help.’ It's honest and has an uplifting element. I see it as a kind of pep talk. MaM : The way you've described it really comes through in the song. This brings me to a question I always like to ask: What comes first, the chicken or the egg? In other words, what comes first for you in your writing process: lyrics or instrumentals? LT : That's a big question, and I appreciate the big question! It's a bit of a mixed bag. I've got these books filled with lyrics I've been writing for about 20 years. Sometimes it's a single line, other times it's a hook, a full verse, or an entire song. But which one is the chicken, and which one is the egg? MaM : Let's go with the lyrics are the chicken. (laughter) LT : We do need to establish that. So, if we consider lyrics as the chicken, technically, the chicken came first. But it's not until it meets the egg, the instrumentals, that they truly come to life. The lyrics nor the instrumentals mean much on their own. I have these lyrics sitting around, and I know I want to do something great with them, but I can't until I have the right musical instrumental ideas … [which] often come from someone other than me, but sometimes I'm the guy … It’s more like the chicken and the egg coming together to create a new velociraptor. (more laughter) MaM : I'm curious about your bandmates and how ATPT formed. Can you share the story of how the band came together? LT : I've known Worth for a while from sharing bills in Wilmington. We were both playing in different bands. I was in Demona Waits, and he was in He is Legend. We crossed paths quite a bit, both locally and on the road. Later on, we ended up working at the same place just outside of Wilmington, selling guitar and amp parts for an online manufacturer. That's where we really got to know each other beyond occasionally sharing a bill. After I moved away and came back, I heard some stuff Worth and Tristan had recorded. I had wanted to sing over something like that for years. I'd been missing that vibe. I didn't know Tristan at all, but Worth did. They met while moving gear into a studio they'd be working in. Jeremy, who drums for Alesana and is now our drummer as well, and Will Sowers, who played bass for Emarosa and is now our bassist, were connections of Tristan and Worth. It's all a bit serendipitous, really. MaM : Your music incorporates a unique blend of sounds. Could you share some of the artists or bands that have influenced your music? LT : Are you open to me asking you what you hear? Then I can respond to that? MaM : Let's go for it! I'll try not to offend. I'm a child of the grunge era and was all about grunge, wallet chains, and Wet Seal. When I heard your music, it brought back that vibe. I picked up hints of Blink 182 and Deftones. But the first thing that struck me was the Christian alt-rock era. It's the power and emotion in ATPT's music. LT : I appreciate the comparison to Christian rock. Growing up in a musical family, I have immense respect for that genre. I'm not offended, although some might be. I'm not afraid of such comparisons. I grew up in church, playing music, running sound, and watching my parents direct choirs and contemporary music groups. And you're absolutely right: There was a wave of heavy, Christian-based music in the early 2000s. It provided an outlet for all of us. I understand the energy and praise-and-worship buildup in that style of music. Apart from that, I grew up listening to Blink 182's "Take Off Your Pants and Jacket" and "Enema of the State" and I love the Deftones. So, you're right on the money there. Beyond these influences, I have a deep admiration for Chris Cornell. I probably love that guy more than most people. Now, this throwback might freak people out more than the Christian rock comparison, but Genesis’ Peter Gabriel. I discussed this recently with Worth [as] we watched old 1980’s Peter Gabriel live concerts. I don’t understand why our generation doesn't connect with his music as strongly as the people from his generation did. I love artists like him, because, even at 70 years old, he has a more expansive imagination than most 11-year-olds. That's what kept him at the forefront of great songwriting, live performance, pyrotechnics, and all the theatrical elements of a great show. He stays a child at heart, and that inspires me to maintain my imagination. … Apart from Peter Gabriel, Chris Cornell is a significant influence, and my exposure to Schuylar Croom from He is Legend, whom I grew up with too; I see him often. If I'm honest, I've listened to everything he's ever done, even before his band was called He is Legend. All of his work has inspired me. He's one of the best songwriters in the heavy music genre. He excels in the studio and in songwriting. He's a great performer, and his entire band is great. MaM : Beyond music, do you have any other passions or creative outlets that drive your artistic expression? LT : Yeah, I professionally edit video and film. That’s a massive creative outlet for me. I do everything from editing to project management. It combines creativity with a structured and logistical approach. Occasionally, I get the opportunity to score a short film. Music and movies create sort of a Venn diagram. On a more global scale, there are very few industries larger than music and movies, except life and health insurance. Those are the two biggest things in demand at all times, and there's a reason for it. It's because it helps people. I just enjoy being a part of those things. MaM : What can we expect from ATPT in the near future? LT : 'Chin Up, Kid' (currently available for pre-save by clicking the image below) is the big thing coming up on November 15. [Following that, we’ll release more songs] roughly every six weeks until the album is complete. Including 'Chin Up, Kid', that will be seven songs. We're also working on something I'm pretty excited about: a cover of Garbage's 'Special'. The unique part is that it fits so seamlessly with the rest of our original music. It feels like it meshes with everything else we're doing. At times, it doesn't even feel like a cover. I didn't write it, but it goes so well with all the other stuff we're doing, especially in the way we're doing it. It may as well just be a part of the album. It's right there on par, and Garbage is f**king sick, dude. MaM : Anything else you'd like people to know? LT : Well, we all need to acknowledge that aliens are real. I feel like we've taken steps in that direction over the past couple of months. The only other thing I'd add is that you should play ‘Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom’. It'll make you a happier person. We can link up online and have a great time playing the game with strangers. And there you have it, folks. The future looks bright for alltheprettythings as they continue to explore new creative avenues and connect with their audience. “Chin Up, Kid” releases November 15, 2023. While you wait for it, read more about alltheprettythings at either the links below! alltheprettythings | Official Website alltheprettythings | LinkTree Erica Machen is a beast when it comes to consuming, reviewing, and reviewing music. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Deondria is a visionary with a remarkable natural talent. < Back Conversations with an Indie Filmmaker: DeOndria Michelle Nicole Brice Nov 20, 2025 Share Deondria is a visionary with a remarkable natural talent. Sometimes the best introductions to new talent come from our very own friends. Originally from Chicago, Illinois , and now residing in Hobbs, New Mexico , DeOndria Michelle is an up-and-coming cinematographer, director, filmmaker, and editor who specializes in cultural documentaries, product productions, and imagery . She’s got a visionary mind that brings realism to all her work, and what I love most about her portfolio is her own style. I can’t describe it. It’s just raw and vivid and rich. Credit: Deondria Michelle A visionary, DeOndria has a remarkable talent for using natural light to create warm, inviting shots. Her careful use of light gives her videos an authentic, lifelike quality that draws you in, making each scene appear both effortless and beautiful. While she is currently working on a new commercial for a client, her portfolio continues to grow with many other endeavors, including three short horror films, also in the works. Initially, she wanted to pursue music, but then found her calling with the video camera, so how did we learn about her? As I mentioned above, sometimes the best introductions to new talent come from our very own friends, and my good friend Ronzo Cartwright from Stone Deep was the one who put DeOndria on my radar. Read on to learn a little more about her aspirations and more. MaM : Thank you for joining us today. So, you are a cinematographer, director, and editor, and you do it all. Tell us a little more about that. DM : I feel like you have to. You gotta do it all, especially when you don’t have the funding to outsource. Everything I’m doing, I learned on my own. I went to the same university as everyone else, YouTube , and I incorporated what I learned from there into what I do. I took the little bit I learned and have expanded on it as I go, so that I can incorporate it all into one vision. I like that I can edit it myself. It’s been a tough road, but I feel like I should have pursued this a long time ago. When you’re doing your own work, you know what your vision is, and to place it in the hands of someone else is hard. Filmmaking should be a team effort, in my opinion, but when you’ve done it so long by yourself, you don’t trust anyone else with your vision. You can only tell a person so much about what it should be. Art is subjective, so they can interpret it as they see it, but ultimately, it’s your vision. Beautifully Black by Deondria Michelle MaM : I read that you specialize in cultural documentaries and product promotion, but could you tell us a little more about what you do? I also see that you originally wanted to pursue music. DM : Music was my first love. I started as a singer-songwriter. I worked with a well-known producer at one point, but I realized that while music held my heart, it’s not my passion. My writing partner would be up early writing, and I just wasn’t in it. I didn’t want to be in a studio laying vocals and all that, but when I picked up a camera, I realized I loved it, and I could do that stuff all day long. From sunup to sundown, I could do videography. You get that feeling when you’re doing something that aligns with your soul. You know. MaM : What is your proudest achievement so far on this journey? DM : Recently, actually. I had stopped posting on Instagram during COVID for several reasons and just got back on. I realized I had almost 1,000 followers. When I first opened that page, I was doing a bunch of “follow for follows,” not realizing I was gaining dead followers rather than authentic ones, and that the algorithm would send this content to these followers, with very few engaging, because no one is actually there. So, I took it upon myself to test this theory, and I hope others will test it for themselves. I deleted and blocked every single account that was following me and left the 142 people I knew had followed me for a reason. I feel that the smaller person with fewer followers has a dedicated audience that has fostered trust, and trust is important in this industry. MaM : You kept the organic followers. DM : Correct, and prior to me doing that, my channel on Instagram was getting maybe 200-300 views, but as soon as I made the change, I posted a video, and that video skyrocketed my views. After that, each video kept getting good views and rising, and I realized my views were increasing by 250% or more. Even my engagement is up, and that was just last week. MaM : That’s incredible. See, most don’t even do a deep dive into the logistics of who is engaging and whatnot. In fact, every single follower we have on Instagram is organic. They found us and liked us. I have not done any tricks or anything. DM : Exactly, growing organically, and while companies think that inflated numbers are the way to go, I started reaching out to companies right after I did it, because my views had gone up. I optimized my platform for engagement. I want people who love the niche I’m in to follow me, and while it may have hurt me on the business side of things with fewer numbers, I’m now pushing my content to those who want to see it. When the Sun Goes Down by Deondria Michelle MaM : So, what is it about video and filmmaking that inspires you and makes you want to pursue it anyway? DM : Initially, it was a dream, and one day I decided to take my camera out while watching TV because it had been in storage. The past two years, I have come a long way working on things. I think bringing stories to life is the most important thing. It’s more than a picture. It’s a footprint that will never go away. Good, bad, or terrible, it’s there, so for me, that’s something I want especially in this space, because in cinematography, there aren’t a lot of women. MaM : You are right about that. DM : My mentors are men. Even my unofficial mentor is a man—all men. There aren’t many black women in this space. For me, to build a position in this space is the most essential piece of the puzzle. I want to create that space for black women to thrive. You have your directors, filmmakers, and writers, but there should be a black woman in every single filmmaking space. Stuck by Deondria Michelle MaM : I agree – I’m calling it now. You will become one of the most prolific woman cinematographers and videographers of our time. I have a feeling. You are going to inspire other girls and women. DM : I tell all women that being a cinematographer isn’t easy. I always chip a nail. Before I got really into this, I’d have my hair done every two weeks, etc. That was a constant. Doing it the way I’m doing it now; this is not a job where you get up and put on a full face of make-up. This is a space for your gym shoes, jeans, and a t-shirt. Get to work. MaM : What are you working on currently? DM : I am working on three short films, actually. They are horror films, so I’m working on a Thanksgiving one, a Christmas one, and a New Year’s one. MaM : That’s awesome. I love scary movies, too. DM : Each day, too, I try to do a complete lighting setup to practice. I’m still learning. A teacher is always a student, too. I’m not a master at it, but I keep trying new things each day. Credit: Deondria Michelle MaM : Do you have a favorite professional in this industry that you admire? DM : I really like Malik Hassan Sayeed , who worked with Spike Lee . He worked on Belly and Clockers and has done so many other films. I love his style and his work because it’s not the typical Hollywood look. I love the way he creates this bright, contrasty, noisy look in his work, and what I like most is that his style is achievable. He’s one of those whose work is complex but simplified. MaM : What is your ultimate goal you’d like to achieve as a creative in this visual world? DM : To leave a footprint. I want to leave my footprint so that the generation behind me knows who I am. I want to be in someone’s Mt. Rushmore. I want to make a place for women to be included in that conversation. With many projects in the works, Deondria’s talents will soon be known once she fully unleashes her creative prowess on the world. Be sure to follow her on social media to stay up to date on all her endeavors. To learn more about Deondria Michelle: YouTube: DeOndria Michelle - YouTube Website: deondriamichelle.com deondriamichelle.com www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Alternative music has a unique blend of passion and rage. < Back The Revival of Alternative Rock in Louisiana: A New Wave of Sound in the Bayou State Nick Cline Apr 2, 2025 Share Alternative music has a unique blend of passion and rage. Alternative music , with its unique blend of passion and rage, is gaining momentum in Lafayette . The local scene, led by Gen Z , is a distinct expression of voices filled with angst, nihilism, and empowerment . This unique blend of fresh influences merging with the raw emotion of rock music— the towering amplifiers, deafening riffs, and screams of pain —is driving the culture and uniting the community in a way that is distinct to Lafayette . As culture evolves from one generation to the next, scenes and aligned communities emerge and fade away. Since the early 90s, alternative music has toggled between the background and the forefront , marked by the rise of grunge , shoegaze , and indie rock . It has been an ever-expanding community that has shaped pop culture landmarks not only in Louisiana but around the world. Despite its historical presence, alternative music was put on the back burner in the mid-to-late 2000s and almost completely faded away in the 2010s . During that decade, various scenes emerged in hip-hop , country , R&B , hardcore , and more, showcasing diverse musical avenues. As time progressed, alternative music evolved into something that felt more like a gimmick than a genuine movement. The raw passion and rage rooted in nihilism, angst, sadness, and self-discovery were overshadowed by homogenized sounds . The genre became a label, which diluted the cultural identity initially established by early alternative communities. Now, as the scene begins its next evolution, newer generations are rallying to rediscover alternative music . Inspired by the sounds of the past and the traumas stemming from our contemporary world, they navigate the complexities of identity as they grow. This is evident in the rise of alternative bands such as Phantum Sun , JAYD3D! , Goodbye Academy , Dairy Free , Kris Russ , Silvercapbaby , and many others. These bands are forging a path for the scene in Lafayette , offering a collective voice through their expressions and influences . I have a firsthand account of the culmination and rise of alternative music in Lafayette . I founded Eclipse Fest , a festival that aims to bring alternative music to the forefront of the local scene. Last year marked the inaugural edition of the festival, attracting 150 attendees who came to see a lineup of bands representing various musical styles. The festival marked a significant milestone in the resurgence of alternative music in Lafayette , serving as a platform for local bands to showcase their talent and for the community to come together in celebration of their shared love for the genre. This year’s Eclipse Fest built upon that milestone, fueled by the hard work that initially drew me into the scene, and it is cultivating a new space for alternative music. It has also demonstrated that alternative music has a rightful place in Lafayette , and this presence is growing daily with each effort put toward it. The resurgence of alternative communities began in mid-2024 and has intensified rapidly in recent months, primarily due to the support and enthusiasm of the local community. It is the passion and dedication of the audience that is driving the resurgence of alternative music in Lafayette. Musical shifts have emerged from a range of genres, including emo , indie , pop , and soul , as well as everything in between. The rise of the internet has empowered Gen Z and future generations to find their music. Unlike in the pre-streaming era, when music lovers relied on word of mouth, radio, and television , the internet now offers nearly unlimited access to a diverse range of musical styles. This access has opened new avenues for the alternative community to share and grow its purpose. Alternative music is a place for everyone, and that sense of community is a necessity that will carry Lafayette and Louisiana into an exciting future filled with talent, expression, and new musical avenues. Thank you for listening, Nick www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nick Cline is the powerhouse behind the Louisiana-based band, Phantum Sun , and loves checking out new music. Got something you think he'd like? Email us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The Enigma of Depression Through a Rose-colored Lens < Back Everything’s Poetic: David Donihue Erica Machen Mar 25, 2024 Share The Enigma of Depression Through a Rose-colored Lens In a world where we are drowning in society's lies about mental health, yet we thirst for those words to be substantiated, David Donihue poetically expresses a cyclic refrain emblematic of the empathetic souls of our time in "Everything's Poetic.” David showcases a resilient determination to find meaning and beauty in life despite adversity and mental health struggles. Bringing the poem to cinematic life, David has provided his readers—and YouTube followers—with a profound visual experience. Who knew invisibility could be so expressive? Without giving away too much, I'll limit my details here, but check out the video. The repetition of the phrase "This is the most depressed I’ve ever been," followed by reflections on past instances of depression, reflects a pattern of struggle with mental health. While acknowledging one’s own mistakes and the pain inflicted by others, he also expresses a longing for life to be meaningful and poetic, even amidst an endemic sense of despair. David also explores the idea that everything can be seen through a poetic lens, especially for those who are empathetic and introspective. He finds beauty in empathy and in understanding others' struggles and traumas. Maybe that poetic lens is rose-colored, but the understanding he seems to find is entirely bittersweet. There's a sense of unity and acceptance in David's poem as he acknowledges the diversity of human experiences, from "the hurting and the healers" to "the homos and the breeders," suggesting that despite differences, there is beauty and poetry in every life story. Ultimately, this is surely a celebration of resilience and the ability to find beauty and meaning in the midst of pain and chaos. It encourages embracing empathy, honesty, and a willingness to love life even in the face of adversity. David's raw honesty truly sets the tone for a remarkable poem full of thought and character. We recommend you check out more from this insightful poet and you can do so by clicking one of the links below. www.daviddonihue.com Facebook Instagram YouTube TikTok www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

A Soundtrack for Navigating Hell < Back When Metal and Rock Collide: 4 Mag Nitrous Nicole Brice Mar 21, 2023 Share A Soundtrack for Navigating Hell Louisiana metal has a distinctive presence in the South—one which is loud, savage, heavy, and full of sludge. Better than a morning cup of coffee, the music of 4Mag Nitrous not only hits you with a distinct sound that knocks you on your ass, but their stage presence is larger than life, too. If you need a soundtrack for navigating the hell that is Baton Rouge traffic, the music of 4Mag is it. Their latest offering, “Electric Conception,” was released in 2021 and is THE perfect music for cruising the road at a snail’s pace in and around the city, and on into outlying areas down I-10 and I-12. You must listen to it on full blast, though, with the windows down. I insist. Pioneers in defining a sound and scene beginning all the way in the 90s with other projects that each member was involved in, such as Leak, Blower Mower, Slaves of Freedom, Mutehound, and Routine Fiend, the men of 4Mag Nitrous have been a constant fixture on the southern metal scene in one way or another and are establishing themselves as the OGs of untamed southern metal. credit: Gary Governale Aggressive, loud-crunching guitars, brutally heavy riffs, and striking melodic vocals round out this band, and if Pantera, Slayer, and Motorhead had a band baby, it would be 4Mag Nitrous. Formed in January 2000, the band was on a mission to play the truest form of southern metal, and they have succeeded. Nitrous has gained much recognition by extensive playing and are currently played on 175 radio stations and heard worldwide via XM/Sirius satellite radio. These guys have solidified their place amongst the metal elite, and it’s time for the rest of the world to take notice. credit: Gary Governale 4Mag Nitrous's music has also been featured on the Discovery Channel's series Monster Garage , along with the compilation CD and DVD for both seasons. They have also licensed songs for the A&E series Dog the Bounty Hunter , and in 2010 signed on with Lionsgate Films to license music in six upcoming films. Having performed on nationally syndicated music television shows like Louisiana Jukebox and SXSW Music Showcase , these guys continue to make an imprint all over the southern region of the U.S. In 2005, 4Mag Nitrous charted at #17 on the CMJ charts. The band is comprised of Joel Cangiolosi (vocals, guitar), Ben Michon (guitar), Josh Klipstein (drums), and Kib (bass). credit: Gary Governale We recently caught up with the guys to ask them a few questions about the upcoming album they are recording, amongst other things we were just dying to know more about. So, grab a Snickers and kick back as we introduce you to a little bit more about what makes these guys tick; afterwards, go download their entire catalogue. I promise, you will thank me. MaM : I know you guys are currently writing and recording new material. What is the direction of the new album, and what music are you currently listening to that is influencing the writing and creative process? Kib : We write what we have fun playing and music we like to hear that we’re NOT hearing. There’s some of our songs we all agree are more fun to play, so, of course, the new stuff naturally follows that direction. We tend to like to play heads down & haulin’ ass! We like our songs and shows to have a lot of energy and to have music that, when you’re driving, you subconsciously push that gas pedal all the way to the floor! I would never want anything to be heavy just for the sake of being heavy. It needs to have feeling. Joel : I’ve been currently listening to a death pop duo called VOWWS, Monster Magnet, and Ice Cube. All over the place, I know. (laughs) I try to stay away from the same genre of music that we play while in the writing process. Ben : Lately I’ve been listening to Eminem’s last two albums quite a bit, as well as ‘Sometimes’ by City and Color, ‘Still Standing’ by Goodie Mob, and ‘Déjà Vu’ by Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young. The new songs we are writing have more of a thrash element to them than our last effort, in my opinion. Klip : As far as I know, the new album's direction is faster and more aggressive. I actively am trying not to listen to too much music while we write this one, although it seems to be more old-school thrash when I do. MaM : Joel, give us a brief background history on past music endeavors. You have always been a fixture on the local music scene for as long as I can remember, and I’m getting old, so that has been a long time. Also, who are your vocal influences? Your vocals are insanely melodic for being metal. Joel : My musical journey started with a band called Big Daddy while I was in high school. Then in college, I had an original band called Sement. Then I moved on to a cover band called Bone China. Then we formed 4Mag and I played until 2004 when I moved out of state. Next was Lagerhead, Blower Motor, and finally back in 4Mag in 2017. It’s interesting that you asked me about my vocal influences. I was really hoping to just play rhythm guitar, but Kib talked me into getting on the microphone. I’ve always just thought of myself as just a guitar player, so honestly, there’s not just one singer that I have been influenced by. But don’t get me wrong—there are plenty that I enjoy hearing. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Ben, you, too, have been on the scene for a very long time. Give us a brief background history on past music endeavors. Also, your guitar tone is insane! Who are your guitar influences? What equipment do you currently use, and what is your favorite type or types of guitars to use and why? Ben : I started playing guitar when I was a freshman in high school at 13 or 14, I think. My grandmother bought me a $50 acoustic she found in the classified ads because I had been wanting a guitar. I have had quite a few music endeavors over the years, probably too many to list briefly. The most notable, I guess, would be Slaves of Freedom, Mute Hound, Big Frank, Routine Fiend, Glitchell, and Chemical City Rebels. I am still currently in Big Frank and Chemical City Rebels. credit: Gary Governale My guitar influences include Kirk Windstein, Scott Gorham, Brian Robertson, David Gilmore, Warren Haynes, Jerry Cantrell, Matt Pike, Brent Hinds, Bill Kelliher, John Baizley, Pete Adams, Chris Wollard, and Chuck Ragan, to name a few. I currently play primarily on a Bogner Uberschall amplifier through an Orange 4x12 cab loaded with Celestion vintage 30 speakers. I run several different effects, primarily a Crybaby 535Q, Earthquaker Avalance Run, Electro Harmonix Micro Pog, and a Boss RC-1 looper. I really don’t have a favorite type of guitar. Now that I think about it, though, I guess Gibson guitars would be my favorite, because all the guitars that I own are either Gibson’s or shaped like guitars Gibson offers. My favorite one is an early 70's Yamaha SA-50 that’s shaped like a Gibson ES335 that I bought at a pawn shop for $200 years ago. credit: Gary Governale MaM : How did the 4Mag sound come about initially? When did you realize, “This is it,” this is OUR sound? Details. Kib : The main thing we go for as far as our sound is thick tones with a bottom end that growls. Each of us like so many different styles of music. When we write, each of us [is] sprinkling their own style into the pot and mix[ing] it all up. But the most important part of it is letting the song dictate the direction. We’ll try different versions of parts when we get to it, but most of the time, the parts will write themselves. You have to stand back, see how the parts are speaking to each other, and not just force something because you like it (because you wrote it). We know when something is good because we seem to all react to it with excitement at the same time. And when all four of us are smiling after we come up with something, we know it’s a keeper! credit: Gary Governale Joel : Well, our sound is still evolving. Now that we have Josh and Ben in the band, it has opened our scope of musical exploration. Both guys are very familiar with writing, so we’ve been working on our sound now that we have all the key members in place. As far as our early quest for a sound, I remember Kib saying he wanted a rumbling type of sound mixed with big rigs, cool cars, my painting endeavors, and our way of life down here. We mixed a concoction of our own style. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Klip, we must know more about your mad drumming skills. Give us some more deets. Klip : I have always been a "metal" drummer in our neck of the woods in Ascension Parish. [I] started off playing percussion in [sixth] grade. By the time high school hit, I had started on a drum kit and played with some friends. I have played music with Joel for roughly 25 years and Ben roughly 20. Ben and I are currently in another band called Big Frank. I play drums and am one of three vocals for the outfit. Although we are on a hiatus for the moment, my third band is Wicked River Rising. My drumming influences range from Dave Lombardo to Dave Weckl. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Kib, you are a beast on the bass! Obviously, someone had to influence your playing style, so who would that be and why? Kib : I was put in piano lessons at [four years old] and until I was 12, I played bass instruments in band in middle school, but when I was 14, I got a bass and started a punk band the same week. I loved The Ramones, The Dead Milkmen, and early 80’s thrash. I never played guitar; it was always the bass. From playing piano, I immediately understood the job of the instrument and made playing with my fingers easier. For me, writing songs on bass helps with coming up with solid, catchy riffs. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Guys, name one band you would like to share the stage with but haven’t yet, and why. Ben : High on Fire because I think our style and theirs would work well together, and I love their music. Klip : I don't necessarily have one band I would like to share the stage with but would like to play a large festival. It has always been a bucket-list item. Joel : Currently, probably Gojira but my inner child would say Metallica or Pantera (original lineup). All these bands rip, and it would be a great opportunity for our band to jump on a tour with them. credit: Gary Governale MaM : With all you have going on, what are your future plans? Kib : Hoping for new opportunities to share the stage with bands we love and new friends as we keep chuggin’!! NEVER STOPPING!! Ben : Finish writing the new record, release it, and play as much and as far out as we can. Klip : I want to keep writing albums and playing them live. Joel : Keep writing and booking gigs. Concentrate on our music and not some hokey gimmick(s) that I see a lot of bands doing. Keep pounding on doors and knocking down walls! _ If you want some good ole southern metal that fuses rock and everything in between, you’re gonna want to check these guys out. Their discography is impressive as a mofo. Also, too, to learn more about this intense band with the untamed sound, be sure to check out their social media links and website. Discography: 4Mag (Self-Titled) – 2005 Monster Garage (Comp CD – Season 1) – 2004 Monster Garage (Comp CD – Season 2) – 2005 High-Road EP – 2019 Electric Conception – 2021 4MAG NITROUS | New Orleans LA | Facebook 4Mag Nitrous Official (@4magnitrous) • Instagram photos and videos 4Mag Nitrous - YouTube ‎4mag Nitrous on Apple Music 4Mag Nitrous | Spotify www.4magnitrous.com 4MAG NITROUS The Official 4MAG NITROUS website. Electric Conception | 4Mag Nitrous (bandcamp.com) *Cover photo courtesy of Gary Governale www.governalephotovideo.com Zenfolio | Home I have been working as a video professional since 1993, with a wide range of experience writing, producing, directing, shooting and editing. A strong interest in videography, specifically lighting and composition, led me to photography in 1998. Rapidly changing technology has blurred the line between video and photography, allowing me to work in both mediums.. Baton Rouge, LA, United States www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Jonathan Machen aka Profit is a lyrical prophet of rock and hip-hop subgenres fueled by the deepest levels of pain and enlightenment. < Back Jonathan Machen aka Profit: Finding Refuge in Music Nicole Brice Dec 11, 2023 Share Jonathan Machen aka Profit is a lyrical prophet of rock and hip-hop subgenres fueled by the deepest levels of pain and enlightenment. In the ever-evolving world of music, talented artists constantly emerge, each with their unique style and sound. But every once in a while, a truly gifted artist emerges—one who not only speaks to your own experiences but also captivates you with his memorable sound. Jonathan Machen aka Profit is one of those musicians with an inherent musical gift and with it he has carved his path, drawing in listeners with his smooth, soulful voice and heartfelt insightful lyrics, as well as his hybrid-fusion sound merging hip hop and R&B with hints of rock and country. Jonathan Machen aka Profit is one voice you hear and don’t easily forget simply for one reason: You can’t. His effect lingers long after the music fades. Credit: Gary Governale Born in Crowley, Louisiana, Machen grew up a burn survivor, meaning he is no stranger to the depths of physical pain—pain that quickly compounded when he found himself the target of insensitive bullying. As an adult and single father of three, Machen suffered extreme personal loss, and his only refuge was the peace and motivation music provided him. The awareness he gained through experiences like these have molded him into the empathetically enlightened vessel of talent he is, reminding us that words—and how we treat other people—really do matter. He's a smart musician. Jonathan Machen aka Profit is as eclectic as, say, someone like Beck or Louis Cole ; he’s definitely traveling along the same interstate. With a passion for storytelling—as is evidenced on songs “ Refuge ” and “ Long Night ”—he shows he doesn’t stick to one style or genre but rather a menagerie of subgenres living amongst rock and hip hop. Mixed Alternative had the opportunity to sit down with Jonathan Machen aka Profit to learn a little more about his life, find out the scoop on that “Daydreaming” video featuring No Limit Gangsta, and see what’s next for him. MaM : Jonathan, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. I’ve been going through your YouTube and music catalog, and you have such a diverse body of work. Tell us a little more about how you fell into making music. JM : I was born in Crowley, Louisiana, near Lafayette. … A lot of people don’t know it, but I am a burn survivor. At 2 ½ years old, I was burned by a crawfish pot that someone had taken off a propane burner and set down. I was running backward playing, tripped, and caught myself, so I ended up with second- and third-degree burns from my bellybutton up to my neck and from right above my knees down to my ankles. During the healing process, I had to wear a pressure suit and go through extensive physical therapy, where I also underwent several blood transfusions and skin grafts, too. I’m a miracle baby. After the accident, they had to airlift me to Baton Rouge from Lafayette, and I actually died and came back. From there, growing up consisted of being teased and hazed because when kids don’t understand something, they attack it. I’ve always loved music, and I can recall dancing around to old records in my mom’s living room. She had four bookshelves full of CDs and we had boxes all over full of records, so I grew up hearing and listening to everything. I immersed myself in it all as an emotional release. It was where I could find acceptance and be heard. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Who or what inspired you musically when you were growing up? Did you have any favorite bands or artists? JM: Otis Redding, King Richard, Frank Thomas, Phil Collins—believe it or not. Anything Motown, too. It just ha[s] this soul and vibe. A good bit of R&B, too. MaM : What initially got you into writing lyrics? JM : As far as lyrics go, I started out writing poetry, and it was more a cry out than anything because I felt like I didn’t have anyone else who understood me besides my mother. I had no other outlet for these emotions I was dealing with. See, I was angry at the world because of what I had been through, and I had to go through some serious mental warfare with controlling my anger so I wouldn’t just snap on people. After I had been writing poetry for a while, I won a contest in school, and they published a poem of mine. That taught me that my words do matter. The first time I heard Eminem, as corny as it sounds, I realized I could put my words to a beat, and that’s how it all began. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Let’s talk about the video for “Daydreaming”. The song is a bit mesmerizing to listen to … and it features No Limit Gangsta . How did you get him to guest on the track? JM : He’s a friend of mine who was signed to No Limit Records. The video for “Daydreaming” came about because the whole concept of that video is one big dream where we fall asleep and the dream plays out, and then we wake up and we’re like, ‘What is going on? Where did all the riches go?’. It’s as simple as that. MaM : What was the first song you ever wrote or recorded? JM : It was a track called “Angels Talking” when I was about 14 or 15 years old. The song never got released, but we did put it on Reverb Nation, and it was recorded on a stick mic with a laptop. MaM : When did you realize you could be on to something with your music? JM : When I was about 18 or 19, I would do a bunch of open-mic nights at Club Rags, and I was always the only white guy there. I would go on stage nervous as hell, but when people started moving and jumping to my music, I started going more, and it got to a point where I was there every week, and I would have a line of people almost at the door wanting to shake my hand. That experience helped me get my foot in the door with the local scene. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : With a background in rap and hip hop, how would you describe your sound these days and what’s next? JM : I would say I am my own genre. My music has country, bluegrass, and some R&B in it, and I try to put my heart into every song because each one is a story. I have a song called ‘Survival’ that I’m going to release in the second quarter of 2024 and it’s about my mother, who passed away from cancer. The main hook talks about God pulling flowers from the garden, and so it’s a very deep and meaningful song for me. ‘Hollow Rain’ is another song that I’m releasing in the first quarter of next year and that one is more about me as a whole because of my scars from my burns. The beginning verse says, ‘He walks around with no tattoos because he ain’t got [sic] the point yet, but he’s still bruised, and pain hangs around like open wounds. He was hazed by cowards and fools …’ See, it’s a story, and I have about 13 or 14 more that I need to record that are just as powerful. MaM : Do only life experiences inspire your lyrics, or do you draw from fantasy, too? JM : Everything that I write and choose to release comes straight from the heart. …[W]ith ‘Daydreaming’, the idea was to get people interested with a cool concept, but ‘Refuge’ was about God being my refuge through everything. ‘ No Colors ’ is another song that talks about the political division being forced on Americans as well as the racism, and so I wanted to express with the lyrics that I won’t hate my brother because we come from different mothers … this is about love for me. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Where do you see yourself in the next five years? JM : Well, I’ve got new music coming out and when I have about seven of the songs recorded, I plan on having a listening party with family and friends and I want to get them to pick the best five, which will be put on an EP. I hope to do that in the first quarter of next year. I want to be able to write songs for other artists, too. I don’t need all the credit either, but I just want to get more of myself out there. I also have a plan for helping impoverished communities with hydroponic gardens that I want to teach the youth about. Maybe make a non-profit to help with that endeavor, and have it include even more than that. You could have the garden, but maybe a basketball court or other things to keep them interested. I feel that the youth of today is losing essential survival skills like we had back in the day, and I want to teach them these things … fishing, too—show them that a fish can feed their family. I have a lot of plans, and more is coming soon. For more on Jonathan Machen aka Profit, visit any of his links below. Be sure to follow him on social media to stay up to date on that forthcoming EP! Jonathan Machen | YouTube Jonathan Machen aka Profit | Spotify Jonathan Machen aka Profit | Apple Music Jonathan Machen aka Profit | Facebook Jonathan Machen aka Profit | TikTok *Cover Photo by Gary Governale www.governalephotovideo.com Zenfolio | Home I have been working as a video professional since 1993, with a wide range of experience writing, producing, directing, shooting and editing. A strong interest in videography, specifically lighting and composition, led me to photography in 1998. Rapidly changing technology has blurred the line between video and photography, allowing me to work in both mediums.. Baton Rouge, LA, United States www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Capital City Records has a vibe all its own. < Back Keeping the Vinyl Spinning: Dana Labat and the Heart of Capital City Records Nicole Brice Feb 26, 2026 Share Capital City Records has a vibe all its own. In a world dominated by streaming giants like Spotify and Apple Music , physical media stands resilient, offering an experience that digital platforms simply can't replicate—a tangible, authentic connection to the music and its creators. The act of holding a vinyl record, flipping through liner notes, or admiring album artwork transforms passive listening into a meaningful ritual. Placing a record on a turntable or sliding a CD into a player requires intention, inviting one to slow down and truly engage with the moment. Physical albums, unlike ever-changing digital libraries, are enduring treasures to keep, revisit, and share. Dana Labat exemplifies the movement to keep physical media alive, curating a cozy atmosphere and unmistakable vibe at Capital City Records, 4641 Perkins Rd., in Baton Rouge, LA. Credit: Michelle Ramey Back in the ’90s, Paradise Records in the University Shopping Center near LSU was my go-to spot for CDs. After it closed, I never found another space in Baton Rouge that captured that same magic—until I discovered Capital City Records in 2017. The moment I walked through the doors, I was transported back to the glory days of the indie record store: music humming over the speakers, rows of carefully curated vinyl, and Dana welcoming me with a warm smile as he helped me hunt down the elusive Ministry albums I’d been searching for. Every corner of the shop reveals Dana’s passion for music, as showcased in a meticulously curated collection spanning genres and eras. The selection is impressively diverse—you’ll spot everything from Acid Bath to Jefferson Starship , and countless gems in between. Baton Rouge boasts a handful of other notable record stores, but what consistently draws me back to Capital City Records is more than just its convenient location or carefully chosen selection—it's the unmistakable energy that fills the space. This isn't just a store—it's an experience. Dana Labat by Michelle Ramey Mixed Alt Mag recently sat down with owner Dana Labat for an in-depth, one-on-one conversation. Read on to discover more about the passionate music lover behind Capital City Records . MaM : Thank you for speaking with me today. Tell us a little more about yourself. Where did you grow up? Dana : I grew up in LaPlace , just outside New Orleans , and I’m 68 years old. Growing up there, there wasn’t much, and everything we did, we did in New Orleans – you know, going to the doctor, going to Schwegmann’s , visiting Canal St. for shopping, but anyway, yeah, I grew up there in the River Parishes with a normal childhood. MaM : What got you into music initially? Dana : I don’t know if anything particularly got me into music, but my earliest recollection of stuff is that my sister, who’s 16 months older than me – I’m the oldest of six kids, yeah, she had two albums I remember listening to those things over and over. They were The Lovin' Spoonful ' s Greatest Hits and The Beatles’ Rubber Soul . I just remember listening to those non-stop, and then my sister had some friends who played music, and she had a boyfriend who played in a band, too. This was probably when we were pre-teens or teens. I call them “bands”, but they’re little garage-type bands. My folks would let her boyfriend practice in the garage or on the patio, so I would have to say it was many things, but most of it was because of my sister. Credit: Michelle Ramey MaM : Do you happen to remember the first record you ever bought? For me, it was Care Bears: Off to See the World. I bought it at K-Mart on Florida Blvd. in Baton Rouge with my mom. It was less than five dollars. Dana : That’s great, the Care Bears. And how old were you? You were just a young girl. MaM : I was five years old. Dana : I remember those two records I mentioned, but the first I ever bought … I’m trying to think. I do remember a 45 I had asked my mom to get me at TG&Y . I think it was John Lennon’s ‘ Instant Karma! ’, which would have been around 1970 or 1971 , so that would put me at 12-13 years old , but that’s the earliest one I can remember. I do remember listening to the radio and hearing ‘ I Wanna Hold Your Hand ’, so like, pre-Rubber Soul and all that. I really liked listening to AM radio because of all the British Invasion stuff that was going on in the early '60s, naturally, but yeah, it was all in my formative years. Credit: Michelle Ramey MaM : I still have my Care Bears record, too. It’s on my shelf with all the others. When my daughter was into Care Bears, she always wanted to hear it. Crazy how that stuff comes back around. Dana : Yeah, that’s great memories. As you get older, you don’t recall everything, but I remember going with either just my mom or my parents, I think it was just my mom at the time, or maybe my siblings were there, but we had gone to The Clearview Mall off Veterans , and there was a place – a record store called The Gramophone . It was on the side by Sears , but I remember buying Bruce Springsteen ’s second album, ‘ The Wild, The Innocent, & the E Street Shuffle ’ there. I’m thinking this was in ’ 72 , but maybe I was in 8 th grade. It was somewhere around that period, and I’d heard the song ‘ Rosalita (Come Out Tonight) ’ on the radio, and I was blown away, so I bought that album. I was even lucky enough to see him several times early in his career, playing small venues. MaM : Wow, what memories. Do you have any favorite bands or musicians? Dana : Well, it’s funny. I get that question a lot as a record store owner, but the answer is always, "It depends on my mood and the time of day, you know?" I mean, I like The Ramones , but not necessarily on a Sunday morning. I might listen to something more ambient on a Sunday morning. Throughout the decades and years, I could easily say that the 60s were the Beatles and the 70s were, you know, like progressive like Pink Floyd , and the 80s became R.E.M. and the indie stuff, and then in the 2000s , we had Radiohead , which I love. I mean, there are so many in between. I love really good lyric writers like Bob Dylan , Leonard Cohen , Elvis Costello – stuff like that. Credit: Michelle Ramey MaM : What about Jim Croce? Are you a fan? Dana : Well, yeah, of course. It’s hard not to be. It’s hard to not leave out people when they ask what you listen to. MaM : That’s how I feel. Too much to describe. Dana : Right, I mean, again, if I say I like some Hüsker Dü or something, you might think that’s all I listen to, but I also love Nat King Cole . If you’ve ever heard him sing ‘ Nature Boy ’ and it didn’t stir some kind of emotion, I’d be surprised. My tastes are really all across the board. MaM : So, what year did you open Capital City Records? Dana : 2014 – We started at the beginning of the year with the hope of being somewhere around a six-month start-up. If I recall, we started moving into the doors in July or August because the building needed some renovations. By the time natural setbacks were done, I think it was November 2014 when we were officially opened. Credit: Michelle Ramey MaM : How would you say business has evolved over the years with your store? Dana : Well, it’s been steady growth – more and more each year. Last year, I saw a slight decrease in business, but it was mostly due to the economy. Just the state of the world. I’m fortunate, though, because people seem to like the store. I always like getting good reviews or hearing customer feedback. Sometimes, it’s not a local customer, it’s a collector, and I like talking to people. Just like when you’re in another town on vacation, where do you go? To check out the local record stores. MaM : Do you find your customers to be younger or older? Or is it just a combination of both? Dana : It’s definitely across the board. One thing I see a good bit of is that when parents come in with their kids, they’re not only buying the popular stuff, but also classic rock like Led Zeppelin , Pink Floyd, and other older artists. MaM : Are there any records people come in seeking the most? Dana : By artist or type? MaM : Just anything, really. Dana : Acid Bath – now that you’re saying it. I sell a lot of them. I know the owner of Rotten Records , and I get them through him. MaM : How long do you plan to keep the store open? I’m hoping until you can’t do it anymore. Dana : I don’t know. I don’t really have a plan. I’ve thought about retiring again after these past 12 years, but I enjoy working at the store. I did cut back a few hours recently, because I lost my helper. Everybody wants to work at a record store, but it’s not just sitting at the register selling records. There’s a lot to do. You have to pay attention to what moves and what doesn’t, price points, and other factors. It’s fun, but getting in Baton Rouge traffic, the older I get, the more aggravated I am. MaM : I can relate. Dana : It wouldn’t be like I would just close. I would hope someone else would take over the store. It’s just a record store, but it’s a good business. If you haven’t visited Capital City Records in Baton Rouge yet, what are you waiting for? Dana always has something special on hand, with records, CD's, and tapes thoughtfully curated just for you—so stop in and see for yourself and be sure to strike up a conversation with him while you’re there. We guarantee you’ll walk away with a new music friend. For more information: Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Capital City Records (@capitalcityrecords) • Instagram photos and videos Email: mailto:ccrbatonrouge@yahoo.com *All photos by Michelle Ramey www.chellrameyphotography.com Chell Ramey Photography Denham Springs And Baton Rouge Family Maternity and Portrait Photographer www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? mixedalternativemag@gmail.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Amanda Chapman, Photographer & Special Effects Artist < Back The Most Creative Eye in North Alabama Keeley Brooks Nov 14, 2022 Share Amanda Chapman, Photographer & Special Effects Artist Here at Mixed Alternative, we think all artists are pretty awesome, especially the self-taught ones. Kind of like this creative gem of a photographer and special effects make-up artist in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Amanda Chapman is completely self-taught in her craft, and her work is utterly breathtaking. Her photography has been featured on Shutterbug, and her special effects make-up has been featured on Yahoo! , Buzzfeed, marie claire, POPSUGAR, and Alabama.com . Yes, she’s THAT good. And she has a kind, creative, super-fun personality to match. Amanda’s love for photography developed in 2006 after her husband gave her her first camera for Christmas. After reading the manual and teaching herself about the art of photography, she started taking pictures of her daughter and soon learned she loved portrait photography. By March 2007, Chapman opened her photography business and hasn’t looked back. Later that year, she started shooting weddings and expanded her repertoire. What makes her photos so unique is that she doesn’t just shoot an image; she creates a work of art in and around her subjects that leaves people so happy, they often can’t find the words to express it. That was the case with a local author, who wished to remain anonymous, who hired Amanda to shoot the cover of her book. “I get really nervous taking pictures,” the author said. “Amanda’s personality put me at complete ease, and she was so creative in her vision that it was the best photo shoot I’ve ever had, and I left elated. When I got the pictures back, they were gorgeous. My publisher and I loved them and had a hard time choosing 'the one'.” By 2012, Amanda’s journey expanded to include special effects makeup and photography. “I grew up in a haunted house, and I honestly don’t remember a time where I didn’t love Halloween and all the spooky things. I always love watching scary movies and dressing up, even when it wasn’t Halloween,” says Chapman. Inspired by well-known YouTube make-up artist Kandee Johnson after she saw Johnson do an Edward Scissorhands makeup, Amanda picked up some tips from her and decided to give her hand a try at her own Edward Scissorhands makeup. “I felt such a deep connection to this character that I wanted to walk a day in his shoes, so to speak. I’ve always loved that movie.” (And I can say to all you Scissorhands fans to stay tuned for a very special Edward transformation coming very soon!) The application process takes many hours, she says, and if she’s making prosthetics, that usually takes two to three days, depending on what she’s making. Creating these types of characters led her to embark on learning to make prosthetics and test other materials for the effects process. When she creates prosthetics, she first does a clay sculpt on a face cast. Next, she creates a plaster mold and pours latex into the mold. After it sets, she removes the latex prosthetic and paints it, then applies it. In addition to Edward, Amanda has recreated other popular characters like Beetlejuice, Michael Meyers, E.T., The Maitlands ( Beetlejuice ), Pennywise, Jigsaw, Mrs. Bates, Vecna (from Stranger Things ), Large Marge (from PeeWee’s Big Adventure ), and Jason Voorhees, to name a few. “My favorite characters to recreate are, of course, Edward Scissorhands, the Bride of Frankenstein, Frankenstein’s Monster, and Creature from the Black Lagoon, just for a few,” says Chapman. “I’m a huge [Johnny] Depp / [Tim] Burton fan, so many of their collaborations are favorites of mine to recreate.” She also enjoys doing zombie makeups and even went to The Walking Dead conventions in Nashville and Atlanta in 2016. Her makeup was so good that it caught the attention of other fx artists in Atlanta, and she even got to meet Dead stars Andrew Lincoln, Glenn Rhee, and Norman Reedus--something Amanda says she'll never forget. Her favorite part of the transformation process, she says, is the moment when she first sees the character coming together, which often reminds her to trust the process … and herself. As she creates her characters, Amanda then designs an entire set in which to photograph them. “I love creating sets and choosing lighting to complement each character. It helps being my own photographer to capture each portrait in a certain artistic light,” she says. Ever since 2017, Amanda has done a “31 Days of Halloween” project where she creates characters and sets and posts photos of a different character over the entire month of October. This year she featured Billy Butcherson from Hocus Pocus , Large Marge, and Jason Voorhees, among many others. Amanda says she enjoys the whimsical makeups, especially if they’re Tim-Burton inspired. “It all starts with being inspired by a new character to create. Then my brain is consumed with every single detail to make it happen. If it's a recreation of a character, then I obsess over getting everything as close to the original as possible. I consider the backdrop and lighting to help highlight the makeup as well.” Recently, Chapman entered the 2022 Faces of Horror contest—the first of its kind. She received a ton of votes and is so talented, she made it all the way to the semi-finals and came in 2nd. “I believe this was the first year for this contest to be held, and I was fortunate enough to advance as far as I did,” Amanda says. And she’ll tell you it was, “100% because of all the amazing votes from family, friends, and online followers,” for whom she says she is very, very grateful, but it was also because of her talent and ability to creatively capture each character and their emotion in the way she envisioned and intended. Chapman says for many past characters she’s created prosthetics and masks that she would love to introduce on TikTok and YouTube, and she even has “many more characters” up her sleeve for 2023. When asked what’s next for her, Amanda responded, “I have plans to start a series of original characters, and I have always flirted with the idea of doing fx-themed horror photo shoots for my clients who are brave enough, haha.” She’s got one person right here who’s not only brave enough but also happily willing and ready any time she wants! Whether you’re looking for portraits, wedding photos, couple pics, a bitchin band photo for your album or book cover, a fun themed shoot—it doesn’t matter. You’re gonna want to call Amanda. She is, hands down, one of the best photographers we’ve ever come across. We know you’ll love her as much as we do. To view Amanda’s work and book her for any of her mad skills, you can find her online at www.AmandaChapman.net and on Facebook @AmandaDChapman. *photos provided by Amanda Chapman www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

“Blood Machines is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes and cliches, using the creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state. < Back Blood Machines: Book Review Shaun Corley Dec 13, 2023 Share “Blood Machines is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes and cliches, using the creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state. Depending on whom you talk to, the vampire is either a potent metaphor or is derivative and “done to death”. A quick look around the pop culture landscape shows compelling evidence for both sides of the argument. On one end are classic books of the genre, such as Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” or Richard Matheson’s “I Am Legend”, which do not glorify vampires but instead show them for the fearsome creatures they are. On the other end we have works, such as " Twilight" or " The Vampire Academy" , that play up the more sexual aspects of vampire mythology and add a layer of luster to the undead. And then there is the novel “Blood Machines”, which uses the blood-lusting creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state . While also the subject of numerous films, vampires have made their way to television as well in shows like True Blood and What We Do in the Shadows . They even star in video games, such as the mega-popular “Castlevania” series and “Vampire: The Masquerade”, a popular role-playing game centered around vampire clans. Those who argue that vampires are still relevant point to the creature as a potent allegory for issues of class and sexuality; Anne Rice’s seminal “Interview with the Vampire” touched on these themes, as did Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of Stoker’s original novel. Commentators who believe the vampire to be cliche use the shallow and superficial nature of works like " Twilight" as evidence for their argument. They believe that these works strip the vampire of its literary power, instead focusing solely on the sexuality element at the expense of other themes. While the two sides continue to debate with no satisfactory answer in sight, J.K. Gravier has slipped under everyone’s radar with the excellent “Blood Machines” . This novel, which deftly mixes the police procedural genre with elements of vampire lore, imparts new symbolic importance to the creatures . “Blood Machines” is set in an alternate America, where vampires have begun entering mainstream society. The vampires of “Blood Machines” are not sexy, they do not turn into bats, and a bite from one will not convert their victim. Gravier does not dwell on the nature of the vampires too much, instead opting to focus on world building and exploring the ramifications of such creatures in the real world. “Blood Machines” follows Allison Drew, a vampire (or “sanguinarian” as they are called throughout) working for the federal government. As part of their efforts to assimilate into the larger world, they have created the Vampire Bureau of Investigations. This agency, working closely with the FBI, polices vampires. Drew is sent to Detroit to investigate a series of murders where the victim's blood was drained. There she uncovers a massive conspiracy, stretching all the way to the highest echelons of the VBI … and the FBI. At every turn, Gravier subverts vampire tropes and cliches . As mentioned earlier, Gravier’s vampires lack many of the creature’s traditional powers, such as the ability to turn to mist or the ability to “charm” someone. These vampires can come out during the day, although it requires sunscreen and special clothing. Gravier even downplays the very word “vampire”, as some prefer to label themselves “sanguinarians”. Gravier also dispenses with a great deal of vampire lore, stripping it down to its bare essence and injecting it with new life. Playing around with these tropes allows Gravier to discuss issues of surveillance and the police state . Allison Drew learns that both the VBI and the FBI have plans to implement a tracking system for vampires, one that would allow various agencies to keep tabs on them. The novel does not make it clear if this surveillance program would carry over to humans, but the implication is there. In “Blood Machines”, vampires also become a metaphor for race and class . Allison and her vampire friends existed on the margins for centuries, only making gains within the past 100 years. Their march into the mainstream has been slow, and they are still greeted with suspicion and fear. It is not a stretch to see Drew and her fellow vampires as stand-ins for any oppressed and marginalized groups. “Blood Machines” also explores the nature of the police state, and the relationship between law enforcement and the people they are pledged to serve. It does not glorify the police work Allison does. Her colleagues are corrupt, and the novel heavily implies this corruption goes all the way up the ladder. “Blood Machines” contains themes of the erosion of civil liberties and the rise of the surveillance state , which resonate loudly in today’s world. Numerous novels, television shows, and movies have centered themselves around these issues, some of them with nothing really new to say. With “Blood Machines”, J.K. Gravier takes vampires—which are often dismissed as “overexposed”—and uses them to talk about these very themes. The end result is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes left and right. “Blood Machines” is currently available for your reading pleasure. To learn more about J.K Gravier and “Blood Machines”, visit any of the below listed links and be sure to leave a solid review. The book is worth it, especially if you’re a vampire fan. J.K. Gravier | Author Info “Blood Machines” | Amazon “Blood Machines” | Barnes & Noble “Blood Machines” on Audible Shaun Corley is an East Coast pop culture enthusiast who loves to write about everything entertainment. A big, important Screen Rant writer, Shaun has many leather-bound books, which are far outnumbered by comics and the smell of rich mahogany. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Dale Harris Music < Back Laid-Back Louisiana Southern Rock Keeley Brooks Oct 19, 2022 Share Dale Harris Music Who doesn’t love some good ole Southern rock music? Creedence, Skynyrd, ZZ Top, The Charlie Daniels Band … The Allman Brothers. Legends. And while all of these groups are surely amongst favorites in the classic rock community, I’m here to tell you about a new favorite Southern rock artist (and band) you just don’t know yet. Meet Dale Harris – singer, songwriter, guitarist, vocalist, and all-around awesome guy. What makes him unique is his multi-faceted ability to do pretty much anything, but relative to this article, I’ll clarify and add musically . In addition to playing lead in his band, the Dale Harris Band, he’s also a multi-instrumentalist, playing the rhythm guitar and drum set, and a singer/songwriter, who tries not to limit himself to just one style. “When I’m writing songs, I try to write music in as many genres as possible so as not to pigeon hole myself,” said Harris. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dale has been playing music pretty much his whole life. His father was a carpenter who exposed him, “to people from all walks of life.” In fact, it was one of his father’s concrete finishers, who ran the band at his local church, gave Harris his first snare drum. “I fell in love with music and learned musicianship from watching those concrete finishers play gospel music after work and on Sundays,” he said, with the reflections of those days shining in his eyes. Dale began guitar lessons at six years old, then started drum lessons with Lyman Mulkey as a teenager. After high school, Harris found himself playing in various local bands over the years, like The Black Box, Loverseed, The Invisible Men, The Roebucks, The Jazz Souls, and The Florida Street Blowhards. Though he writes mainly Southern rock songs, Harris is inspired by the swamp pop, jazz, soul, and gospel genres. Taught by his father at a young age to read chord charts and play folk, country, and gospel songs on guitar, Dale credits The Charlie Daniels band with inspiring him to become a musician. “My first source of inspiration came from the Charlie Daniels Band. When I heard ‘Devil Went Down to Georgia,’ well, it was the first time I heard someone just straight getting down on an instrument. It was my first example of trading solos. After that, I knew I wanted to become a musician; so, I did.” Harris also credits Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and Dr. John with being major influences on his music, which is ripe with laid-back style that paints a smooth surface over rough terrain and consists of topics like heartbreak, hoodlums, and home repair. Currently he stays busy writing and recording music with his band, the Dale Harris Band. Harris leads the group on vocals, rhythm guitar, and drums, on occasion. Glenn Harris, his brother, plays lead guitar, and long-time co-writer Denvil Snyder plays bass. Personally, one of my favorite tunes is “I Woke Up.” From those laid-back, catchy guitar licks to the buttery smooth vocals that ooze out of Harris when he sings, the songs aspects and focus just pull you in sip by sip. It’s catchy, it’s rockin’, and it’s just a damn good song. And speaking of good songs, you should also check out “Dag Nabbit,” which, according to Dale, was inspired by watching Saturday morning cartoons. For more on that story, you’ll have to go to one of his shows and ask him the deets yourself! “Yeah, that one tends to be “the hit” amongst the kids,” Harris laughed. At the moment, he is in the process of recording demos for an upcoming album, and he currently has an EP available on Spotify and most streaming platforms. As far as upcoming shows, you can see the Dale Harris Band live at any of the below-listed shows, and be sure to catch him Halloween weekend doin’ his thang live at Phil Brady’s. Oct 29 Phil Brady’s, Baton Rouge Nov 12 Oyster Bar, St. Francisville Dec 1 La Davina Café, Baton Rouge New Year’s The Hilton Downtown, Baton Rouge *(with The Florida Street Blowhards) For further information on Dale Harris and the Dale Harris Band, and to stay up to date on live performances and album releases, visit www.jdharrismusic.com . *photos provided by Dale Harris www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Presenting Grunge-Gaze < Back An Ugly/Beautiful Dichotomy: The Music of Morbid Orchid Nicole Brice Mar 2, 2023 Share Presenting Grunge-Gaze Sometimes a girl just needs to listen to some good ole fuzzy indie rock, and this next band I’m about to hit you with has mastered that catchy indie-rock vibe made famous in the mid-90s by many notable acts. Morbid Orchid is their name, and they are based out of Nashville, TN. Formed in 2019 with core members Taylor Santangelo on guitar and Joel Murray on vocals and drums, these two almost didn't meet. It was after a few failed attempts, and one dick pic, that Taylor almost deleted a Craiglist ad he had posted in hopes of finding bandmates. As a last-ditch effort, he said to himself, “just one more week.” Endurance paid off when Joel responded, “hey, I live 20 minutes away.” The two would soon meet, and find the chemistry between them to be nothing short of palpable. I just want to note that Joel makes playing drums and singing seem flawless and effortless, and I must give mad props to anyone who can do both of those with ease. Their newest release is titled Siamese TV Lamp , and this album jams from start to finish. These guys are on to something with their Grunge-gaze sound, swooping chords, and their secret weapon producer, Tom Whall, who not only played bass on their debut but also gave the recording that extra TLC it needed to define their sound. credit: Cordie Nicole From the bluesy guitar opening on “Like Moths” to the fuzz explosion on “Couldn’t Be Better,” these guys rock it way out there and back. Be sure to check out their music and show some love right after you read this interview. credit: Loee Murray MaM : Good Morning! How are ya’ll doing today? TS & JM : Hey! We’re good! MaM : Guys, I just want to break the ice and start by telling you how impressed I am with your music. I made a note that your sound is Mudhoney meets The Breeders meets Hum meets My Bloody Valentine. Would you agree with that? I know that is all over the place, but I hear so many hints and nods to acts from the past. Influence is everywhere! TS: I’m not too familiar with Mudhoney. MaM : Really?!? You need to put them on your list and go check them out. TS : I know that they are a Grunge band, but I’ve never really listened to them. The other two bands—I am flattered to be put in the same category as them, so thanks for that. MaM : Who gave you the inspiration for the name Morbid Orchid, and where did it come from? TS : So, it was actually inspired by Marilyn Manson, and I am a fan of his music, but his philosophy was combining a negative thing with a positive thing to form the names of the band members and the band name itself and hearing that kind of stuck with me over the years. JM : The whole ugly/beautiful dichotomy. We thought it was a cool name, but it’s been a guiding principle in the band, too, with Taylor’s guitar tones being a little more aggressive, grungy, and dark, while my voice kind of naturally is lighter and prettier, and all of those elements kind of make up the sound. MaM : So as far as influences go, is your music taste all over the place? I would think with Marilyn Manson being an influence that your taste is very diverse. Who’s the big Manson fan? JM : Taylor more than me. TS : One of the things when we met, that we actually bonded over, was just how broad and diverse our music tastes were. My only litmus for if something is good or bad is that good music can exist in any genre. credit: Loee Murray MaM : If the music resonates with you on a certain level, then that’s all you need. So, current line-up: Give me the rundown on who all is involved in Morbid Orchid. Is it just you two? I could have sworn I saw two other band members in pictures. L to R: Taylor, Joel, Loee, and Alex JM : Taylor and I are the core of the band. We do all the songwriting and recording. We’ve used a producer, but it’s mainly the two of us, but then for live shows, we have a bassist who is named Alex Aer and then a back-up singer, I guess … or co-singer? TS : A provider of harmony. (laughs) credit: Cordie Nicole MaM : A provider of harmony … (laughs) … I like that. That works. JM : Her name is Loee Murray actually. It’s her nickname. credit: Cordie Nicole MaM : So, you guys are based in Nashville. Tell us a little more about that. Born and raised there? JM : We both moved here. Taylor is originally from kind of all over, but mostly from Philadelphia, and you’ve been here, what, five years? TS : I think four years and some change. JM : I’ve lived here for three years, and I moved from L.A., but I’m originally from upstate New York. MaM : So, what brought you both to Nashville? Strictly music or something else? JM : Yeah, that was part of it. TS : For me, music didn’t really factor into the decision at all. I was fresh out of college and had a job that was fine enough, but nothing to stick around for, and then I went on a vacation to Nashville … where I had never been … and really loved it. At the time, my girlfriend and I wanted to do something crazy and a month later, we were living in Nashville. It wasn’t the most thought-out thing, but it’s really worked out. credit: Cordie Nicole MaM : So, a spontaneous move led to Morbid Orchid. TS : Yeah, it’s funny how you think your life is this big grand plan, but a lot of it is just coincidence, and I’m very lucky to have met Joel just based off a random move that turned into something important to me. MaM : So according to your bio, you two met on Craig’s List, right? A shining light in a sea of dick pics. (laughs) See, I never trusted it. I always thought some weirdo might come to chop me up or something if I responded to an ad on there. (laughs) TS : Yeah, you have to wade through the dicks to find you a Joel. (laughs) MaM : So, what was the official year you guys formed? TS : Late 2019 and then we worked together for a few months and were put on hold because of COVID-19, so it wasn’t until 2020 when we truly got started. MaM : What led to wanting to form the band? JM : I was a drummer first and I always loved to play. I played in bands in high school and college and always seemed to take it more seriously than anyone else. I taught myself to play guitar and sing, too. I saw Taylor’s post with a link to some of his solo material and I really connected with it. At first, I didn’t know what form the band would take and I thought maybe I would just play drums for Taylor’s solo material, and then we had our first couple of sessions … He encouraged me to do more of the singing, and we co-wrote the first song we ever did together. It just became collaborative. In the past, it was always someone else’s project, and you would write your parts and that was that. This is the first time where it has felt like a creative partnership and each song has to make it though the gauntlet of both of our tastes and have both of our fingerprints in terms of the arrangements and the melodies. MaM : As far as influences on your sound, do you both share similar influences that has led to the sound you have currently? TS : I would say we have a lot of common ground, and then we have quite a lot of things we bring to the table as far as influences the other person has never heard. I think the first artist that we both agreed on was Death Cab for Cutie. Obviously, Nirvana and all the Grunge bands you can think of, too. JM : Courtney Barnett, obviously, too. She’s Australian and great. She’s an incredible songwriter and the observations she interjects into her lyrics are oddball, but very relatable. She’s amazing. MaM : Now, take me through the writing process for your lyrical content. Do you put a heavy emphasis on what you write, or do you just let it flow? How would you describe it? TS : That’s where our priorities differ. While Joel doesn’t want to write throwaway catchy lyrics, I am a bit more particular with what’s being said. Joel does make it an accessible package that sounds good, so it’s a nice give and take we have. JM : I focus on melody more, and Taylor focuses more on lyrics, which works out. MaM : So, you balance each other out. He’s the yin to your yang. In 2020, you released Siamese TV Lamp ; is there anything else currently in the queue? What are you working on? TS : We’re finished with about 11 songs for our follow-up—well, they’re in various forms of completion. We’re getting really close to recording our next effort. JM : We want the whole record to be written before we go into the studio. We want it to feel like one cohesive statement. Taylor has a cool penchant for writing songs that flow together. There’ s a little of that on the first album where the songs bleed together. It’s fun to go into the studio and have a clear vision of that before the recording process begins. It’s getting there. We’re hoping to start recording this year. MaM : What’s the anticipated release date for the new material? JM : I think we’re aiming to record this summer and then release in the fall. TS : Fall kind of fits our vibe. credit: Loee Murray MaM : Yeah, it sure does. That’s awesome. As far as local shows, what’s going on with all of that? Do you have anything upcoming? JM : We played a lot last year, but Taylor is moving this month, so he’s been busy. We do have a gig coming up on March 18th. It’s a St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza in Manchester, TN ( https://stpatricksextravaganza.com/ ). We are actively booking, though! MaM : So, guys, a few more questions, and I like to talk gear when I’m honing in on a sound for a band, so give me a rundown of what all you use to achieve your sound. JM : Taylor is a tone warrior. That’s one of my favorite things about working with him because he has such an amazing ear for those guitar textures. TS : Thanks, man. So, while I will agree to being a tone warrior, what I am not … well, guitar players actually annoy me, because if it’s not some rare vintage thing, it’s crap, and I don’t subscribe to that at all. So, the first album was an old Aria guitar that was manufactured in Japan. Basically, it was a knockoff Fender Jaguar, and the amp for that first album was a Fender Hot Rod Deville 4 x 10. As far as pedals go, the philosophy behind that is that I have a medium-sized pedal board and if it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t get used, so I have an octave pedal. It’s a Boss OC3 … just a standard octave pedal, but … my favorite pedal is a Stomp Underfoot Black Russian Fuzz. How I got that is that one of my favorite local bands called JEFF the Brotherhood has a great guitar tone, and they use a Big Muff Black Russian, but when I looked to try and buy that pedal, I couldn’t find one used at a reasonable price, so … I found this other manufacturer who makes a great reproduction of that pedal. For my less fuzzy tones, I have a Boss OD-3, which is a pretty time-tested yellow overdrive. I also have an MXR Flanger, and am I missing anything? Joel? Oh, I have an Ibanez Tremolo, which I’ve used on some stuff, but nothing recorded yet. MaM : So, you use a lot of gear, and you’ve got it all ironed out with what you’re trying to achieve sound-wise. You are a meticulous musician. (laughs) TS : Yeah, I guess it is a bit overboard. All my pedals have little pieces of tape on them with settings marked for my different tones. credit: Loee Murray MaM : So, my last question involves future plans. What all do you want to achieve going forward? JM : Yeah, we’ve talked about this a little bit. We don’t have illusions that the band will last forever. We both have life plans that take us away from Nashville and each other, eventually. I think we’re just trying to enjoy every moment, every show, and just live it. In the short term, we really want to make this new record and just do some short local tours this summer. Some bigger audiences. TS : It’s a fine balance between having all those crazy dreams but also not knocking where we are at and trying to enjoy what we have achieved and being a little more realistic. To check out all that is Morbid Orchid, hit one of the links below: www.morbidorchid.com Morbid Orchid (@morbidorchid_official) • Instagram photos and videosMorbid Orchid | Facebook Spotify – Morbid Orchid Morbid Orchid (bandcamp.com) Morbid Orchid - YouTube ‎Morbid Orchid on Apple Music Tik Tok: @morbidorchid_official Morbid Mag www.morbidorchid.com Morbid Mag, Vol. 1 — Morbid Orchid www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link