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Creation, Passion, and Collaboration are forming a New Era in Louisiana Music < Back Bayou Harmony: The Rise of Louisiana’s Collaborative Alternative Music Scene Nick Cline May 31, 2025 Share Creation, Passion, and Collaboration are forming a New Era in Louisiana Music Let’s face it, the music scene in general has been very strange and bizarre for quite a while, and although I wasn’t even born yet, the '90s truly are the period of music I most identify with. Alternative music in the ‘90s was so raw, artistic, and full of creativity. You had average-looking folks up there performing, and it wasn’t polished at all. It was authentic and real. The alternative music scene in Louisiana these days exemplifies perseverance in the face of judgment, it truly does. When I first started Phantum Sun , I found there was no true alternative music scene for the type of music I wanted to play, so I set out on a quest of sorts to try and build the scene I wanted. Think like a Monty Python quest, but no one has lost a leg or arm yet. Building a genre and its accompanying community is never an easy task, but despite the hardships and challenges, Louisiana is experiencing a surge of artistic creation currently, and I am happy to be a part of it. It’s starting to feel like a family. Recently, the alternative scene here in Louisiana reached a pivotal moment. The artists have all collectively decided they are ready to make a significant impact both in Louisiana and nationwide. Bands are forming a community that pours every ounce of passion and creativity into their work, and the community is evident both on social media and at local shows. The rules set by traditional norms no longer confine this emerging community. Instead, they are forging their own path—one that is filled with possibilities, inclusivity, and opportunities for progress, and it’s awesome. The recognition of this new community I’m referencing began with the ideas established at Eclipse Fest 2025 . Eclipse Fest is a festival I started last year, and this year, the camaraderie and community came together in an even bigger way. The line-up was killer with bands that included Phantum Sun , HolleeStar , Pink Tooth/JAYD3D! , Jean Claude Seagal , Grey Areas , Kris Russ , Double Knockout , Goodbye Academy , She Might Be a Beast , WE ARE THE VIRUS , and Voice of the Enemy . Many of the bands mentioned above are dedicated to creating a new era of Louisiana music, just as I am. Every day, they lay the groundwork for events and collaborations, encouraging more bands to join this mission. I see them all working together, and this collective is expanding with each passing moment. As announcements are made, the collaborations between these groups grow stronger, with each band carving out its own identity while embracing a wide range of genres. This stands in stark contrast to the existing scene I walked into, which was characterized by gatekeeping and ego clashes, which are now behind us, because we stand for unity through music and only want to uplift others. We are on the verge of a new era defined by inclusion, passion, and artistic expression with music, I believe. Things have been stale for far too long. The alternative scene here, which has never been a staple of the state, has recently ignited into a wildfire that is slowly spreading across Louisiana , and we need to embrace that and build it. The state of mind in alternative music has always been unpredictable yet beautiful, welcoming anyone willing to collaborate and accept good people, regardless of their genre. This community we are building truly makes me proud. The electric energy, work ethic, and creativity of this burgeoning scene are genuinely remarkable. Louisiana—and indeed the entire country—may not be prepared for this powerful wave of artistic expression, but I know that we are all ready to take it to the next level by bridging the gap through various other successful scenes, such as the one in Asbury Park, New Jersey , which is where I plan to move soon . As the days continue to go by, let’s return to our roots of just good music, no matter the genre. Life is too short. Listen to good music. Thank you for reading my thoughts. -Nick- *cover photo by Elise Hanks Photography by Elise Marie 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

Strays is a sweet, hysterical, raunchy comedy featuring potty-mouthed dogs in one of the best animal movies ever made. < Back Strays: Feast Upon This Keeley Brooks Oct 13, 2023 Share Strays is a sweet, hysterical, raunchy comedy featuring potty-mouthed dogs in one of the best animal movies ever made. Rating: 4 out 5 foul-mouthed Boston Terriers Strays is probably one of the best animal movies ever made. Yes, yes, I hear you all screaming at me about Milo & Otis and Black Beauty and all the others, but did any of them feature foul-mouthed dogs with a flair for the obscene and nasty, kind of like that one Jimmy Buffet song that makes most “squares” uncomfortable (i.e., “Why Don’t We Get Drunk”)? Nope? I didn’t think so, and that’s precisely why you’re gonna want to watch Strays ! Directed by Josh Greenbaum ( Barb and Star Go to Vista del Mar ), Strays features a whopping all-star cast that includes Will Ferrell ( Anchorman ), Randall Park ( Totally Killer ), Isla Fisher ( Wedding Crashers ), Jamie Foxx ( Ray ), Josh Gad ( Ghostbusters: Afterlife ), Harvey Guillén ( What We Do in the Shadows ), Rob Riggle ( 21 Jump Street ), Brett Gelman ( Stranger Things ), Jimmy Tatro ( American Vandal ), Dennis Quaid ( The Day After Tomorrow ), Phil Morris ( Doom Patrol ), Jamie Demetriou ( Barbie ), Sofía Vergara ( Modern Family ), and Greta Lee ( Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse ). Strays is lovingly brought to us by “the humans” who gave us 21 Jump Street (2012) and Cocaine Bear (2023), so right off the bat, you know this flick is gonna be hella funny. And it is. Nevermind those critics who’ve said that Strays , “wants to startle us with its tonal shifts … but its wild careening from sentimental to super scuzzy makes it seem like the moviemakers lost track of what they were trying to do.” To them I say: LIGHTEN UP, FRANCES. You knew it was a raunchy comedy going into it. No one expected Strays to be an Oscar contender, but we all like a good time, and Strays is absolutely that. (Warning: Video below features foul language!) The R-rated comedy follows the life of Reggie (Ferrell), a super sweet but extremely naïve and gullible Border Terrier who’s more of a glass-half-full personality. It’s a great role for Ferrell, allowing him to return to the nature of his character in Elf. credit: Universal Pictures Reggie lives with his owner, Doug (Will Forte, of Macgruber ), who’s a complete and total dick as far as pet owners go and a total loser as far as grownups go. Doug has no job, no money, no life, and no girlfriend, and he spends his days being a slob, smoking pot, guzzling beer, and living off his struggling mother’s social security checks. Will Forte as Doug (credit: Universal Pictures) Reggie loves Doug and thinks he’s a great pet owner who likes to play Reggie’s favorite game: “Fetch & F**k.” This is where Doug drives somewhere and throws a tennis ball then leaves while Reggie searches, hoping Reggie won’t find his way home. When he does show up with the tennis ball in his mouth, Doug’s response is always, “F**k.” So, one day after Reggie accidentally breaks Doug’s favorite bong, Doug drives Reggie four hours away to a big city, backs up to an alley, then throws the tennis ball for Reggie to chase. When Reggie runs after it, Doug leaves. Sad, right? It really is, right up until the moment Reggie meets Bug (Foxx), a once-owned-but-now-stray Boston Terrier with street smarts, a sharp tongue, lots of love, and a giant, tough-talkin’ personality. And as a recent Boston Terrier mama, I can say this personality is quite accurate. When Reggie tells Bug how he wound up in the alley, Bug tells Reggie his owner left him on purpose and he’s now a stray, then befriends him and decides to help him adjust. credit: Universal Pictures As Bug walks Reggie through the city, he tells Reggie there are three rules to being a stray: (1) If you want it, pee on it. (2) You can hump whatever you want. (3) You’re on your own: “You’re a stray now! You can do anything you want!” Bug also takes the time to point out how weird and mean humans can be. Bug notes that while they’re awesome because they drop food all the time, they’re also evil because they collect dog poop and snip the balls off of male dogs. Bug says humans love "this thing called chocolate,” and he’s convinced the reason chocolate is so good to humans is because the secret ingredients are dog poop and dog balls. So, along the way, Bug and Reggie hit the park, where Reggie befriends other animal companions: Maggie (Fisher), a person-owned Australian Shepherd who doubles as a scent queen, and Hunter (Park), a Great Dane (i.e., “the muscle”) who is a former police dog turned therapy dog, who always wears a cone—not for a medical reason but because it makes him feel safe. Hilarious, right? I know. credit: Universal Pictures credit: Universal Pictures When Reggie introduces himself to the pack, he says his name is, “Shitbag, or sometimes Dumbass Shitbag … or F**k Nugget.” When Maggie asks if that’s what his owner calls him and Reggie says yes, she, Hunter, and Bug kindly point out that those aren’t terms of endearment and that Doug sucks. As Reggie’s shiny, innocent reality shatters right before his sweet little eyes, his sadness turns to anger as, with the group's encouragement, he declares he’s going to find his way back home and take away Doug’s favorite toy: “I’m gonna bite his dick off." So, together the four embark on a long journey to get Reggie home, whereupon they encounter vicious predators, animal control officers, the wrath of God, and even some mind-altering mushrooms. There’s a lot about Strays that make it a must-own movie. In addition to its script and cast, Strays features an outstanding soundtrack full of N.W.A., Ludacris, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, Tony K, Travis Scott, Reem, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd (with Playboi Carti and Madonna), Post Malone, and more. And guys, these songs are paired with the perfect accompanying scenes, most of which are shot in super creative slow motion with epic comedic undertones. Sometimes overtones. Strays is packed levity throughout the cruelty driving the story, such as the festival scene. Reggie tells the group he remembers passing “a big wheel in the sky and it smelled like hot dogs.” Maggie goes to work and picks up a scent, leading the gang right to the county fair. As the strays make their way through the crowd of humans, Reggie steals a link of hot dogs. When the others find out he stole from a human, they panic, but Reggie tells them to relax, “No one saw.” At that very moment, fireworks erupt and Hunter shouts, “GOD SAW!” as they all freak out and run, thinking God is trying to bomb them for stealing hot dogs from a human. That scene, ladies and gents, is side-splitting hysterical. It’s so good, you’ll back it up and watch it again. Likewise, in another great moment, as the dogs stop to howl, it turns out that all can howl except for Hunter, who literally howls by saying the word “howww-ling.” It’s quite adorable. As a former Great Dane owner, I can attest that what they do sounds more like a “roooo” than a howl. Then there’s the scene where the dogs come upon a sea of mushrooms and think they’re food, so they eat as many as they can … and proceed to trip their balls off. It makes for one psychedelic good time, as the strays hallucinate a gaggle of toys they then proceed to tear up. When they awaken the next morning and realize the toys were actual rabbits, they feel like serial killers and leave the forest in shame. There’s even a story within this story that focuses on a little girl gone missing, whom the strays actually come across and rescue. It’s very, very sweet. And, I’ll go ahead and spoil it for you because it’s no big surprise, but Reggie does make it home to Doug and bite his dick off in an epic scene of vengeance that plays out to Miley Cyrus’s “Wrecking Ball.” Overall, Strays is absolutely one of the best animal movies ever made, for adults only. It’s a beautiful story of awareness, friendship, family, and brotherhood—er, doghood—as well as courage and strength. The writing is funny and clever, remaining sweet with endearing moments, and all dogs featured in Strays were absolutely amazing. In fact, they all were legit strays adopted and trained or came from the pound and were adopted and trained. For more on that, go down the YouTube rabbit hole and enjoy that ride. Strays is currently streaming exclusively on Peacock and available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, Video On Demand, and Prime Video. 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 . 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Artists we think you should check out. art with heart Aug 1, 2023 Taryn Chase Jackson: Mixed Media Creative Unique analog collage displays manifesting as one collective dreamscape Read More Apr 13, 2023 Be Still My Beating Heart Charlton Fine Art Read More Feb 13, 2023 Raw, Unapologetic Artistry Jill Mulkey Art Read More Nov 28, 2022 Color, Form, and Texture with a Modern Twist Chris Bond Read More Nov 6, 2022 Brilliance for a New Era: Lori Bequette A Fresh Approach to Pop Art & Surrealism Read More Oct 29, 2022 Flowers, Glitter, and Resin, Oh My! Christina Binns Read More Oct 4, 2022 A Bright Visualist: Robin Masterman Merging Styles Read More

This is THE space where we discuss the observations of something strange and unusual that we just watched with humor and personality. What the hell did I just watch? Jan 25, 2024 Masked Mutilator Masked Mutilator combines horror and wrestling, making for the ultimate B-movie experience. Read More Nov 28, 2023 Death Toilet: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Death Toilet is a fun concept but is ultimately just a horrendous amalgamation of cheap cinematic techniques and really bad storytelling. Read More Sep 25, 2023 Dear God No!: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Dear God No! nails it and takes us back to the days of true grindhouse and 70’s exploitation. Read More Aug 28, 2023 Nude Nuns with Big Guns: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Nude Nuns with Big Guns accurately captures the grindhouse feel but is riddled with lazy filmmaking Read More Aug 14, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Sharktopus vs Whalewolf Sharktopus vs Whalewolf has its moments but is ultimately a flop Read More Aug 2, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Alien Shark An entertaining movie with poor effects and multiple random plots Read More Jul 26, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Howling: New Moon Rising A werewolf movie so bad, you have to see it to believe it Read More Jul 10, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Nekrotronic Nekrotronic is a fantastic sci-fi/horror mashup that fans of B movies will love Read More Mar 17, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Suckling Review This B-horror movie is so bad, it's B-movie gold Read More

Jason Momoa as a Blind Warrior? I'm in! < Back See: The Final Chapter Keeley Brooks Oct 13, 2022 Share Jason Momoa as a Blind Warrior? I'm in! I’m a fan of most genres, and I’ll just about watch anything, unless it’s a sappy love story. One of my favorite genres, though, is science fiction. Start with that and sprinkle in treats like Jason Momoa, Dave Bautista, and plenty of badass fight scenes (not to mention Alfre Woodard), and you’ve got my attention in its entirety. Streaming series See did just that and is in its final season, with the finale right around the corner. If you’ve yet to check it out, here’s why you should. See is a science fiction drama series currently airing on AppleTV, starring Jason Momoa, Alfre Woodard, and, in season two, Dave Bautista. It also stars one of my favorite actors, Christian Camargo. Not sure who that is? Maybe this’ll help: If you were a fan of Dexter , you might remember him as The Ice Truck Killer from season one. Yeah? The series takes place in a very distant, brutal, primitive future, hundreds of years after a deadly virus pretty much destroyed humankind. Anyone who managed to survive emerged blind and thus gave birth to future blind generations, mostly. See follows Jason Momoa’s character, badass warrior tribe leader Baba Voss, as he goes to theend of every length to protect his family—namely his children, because they have the mythic ability of sight. Though Baba Voss has raised the twins from birth like they were his own, they are not his biological children; they are his wife’s, Maghra Kane, who was impregnated by a sighted man. Maghra is a princess of the House of Kane in the Payan Kingdom. Baba Voss found her lost, alone, and pregnant in a storm, so he brought her back to his tribe for shelter. She gave birth, they fell in love, they got married, yada yada yada. Maghra’s sister is Sibeth Kane. She is Divine Ruler and absolute monarch of the Payan Kingdom. She’s also the ruthless spiritual, military, and political leader of the last remaining society with electrical power. She murders any heretic speaking about the sense of sight and classifies them as witches. SHE is a treat to watch. I don’t know that anyone other than Sylvia Hoeks (pronounced Hooks) could’ve played this role so well … captured Queen Kane’s nuances so perfectly. She has a very interesting way of speaking and doing that brings some levity to her character while at the same time adding dimension. It’s one of the things I love about her. Plus, she gives a whole new meaning to the phrase, “I wish to pray.” You’ll see. Queen Kane’s Royal Tax Collector and Witchfinder General is Tamacti Jun (Christian Camargo). A brilliant and violent witchfinder general, he leads an army to find and kill anyone with sight. In particular, Sibeth has him on the hunt for a man named Jerlamarel (Jer-La-More-El) and all of his sighted children. As a man of sight, Jerlamarel goes around impregnating women (not forcefully or anything) to build a sighted race. Two of his children are Baba Voss and Maghra’s twins, Haniwa and Kofun (Ko-foon); hence Baba’s need to protect his family. Alfre Woodard also stars as an elder, advisor, and midwife to the Alkenny people, Baba Voss’s tribe. She and Baba are very close, almost like mother and son. She mentors him, and her extremely powerful innate wisdom guides him through all things, especially times of crisis. Not everyone trusts her in the Alkenny tribe, though, and dissenters view her as a witch. So, she is also under Baba Voss’s protection from Sibeth and Tamacti Jun. Dave Bautista joins the cast in season two as Edo (EE-doe) Voss, Baba’s estranged brother, and his arrival is nothing short of exciting. I’ll save their story for you to unfold but I will say I’m not sure there’s ever been such a highly anticipated fight scene between two brothers as this one was, and it did not disappoint. At all. Then comes a huge twist that made me jump up and do a happy dance, but I won’t spoil the fun. You’ll have to watch it and find out for yourselves! As a whole, I have to say everyone did a great job on making their blindness believable. It’s interesting to see (ha, no pun intended) how these blind tribes function together and work as a unit hunting, building, traveling, fighting—murdering … you name it. And kudos to the fight choreographer(s) working this series. Standing ovation. They came up with some sweet, clever battle moves that’ll definitely make you want to rewind and repeat. More than once. See is currently in its final season with new episodes dropping on AppleTV on Fridays. (Most of the time, they drop the night before at 8 p.m. if you’re like me and can’t wait ‘til then!) Seasons one and two are also available. Go see with your own eyeballs and enjoy! You can thank me later. 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

Everything Streaming in November < Back So Much to Watch, So Little Time Keeley Brooks Nov 4, 2022 Share Everything Streaming in November We’ve entered November, and so comes the holiday season of 2022. That means a lot of new content will be dropping, and lucky for you I’m a heavy consumer who loves to share it all with you guys. Here are new titles dropping on your favorite streaming platforms this month. NETFLIX After coming out swinging for the fences in October with Ryan Murphy’s Dahmer and The Watcher , which, if I do say so myself, really fizzled out with a very mediocre ending, Netflix is following up with a true-crime-a-palooza beginning Nov. 2 . Here's what's in store. Killer Sally – The true story of former professional bodybuilder Sally McNeil who, along with family and friends, charts her rocky marriage and its bloody end in a Valentine’s Day murder. Streaming Nov. 2 Enola Holmes 2 – You either love it or hate it, but regardless, Enola is back with her quirky girl boss personality. Here she takes on her first case with help from her hot brother, Sherlock, played by Henry Cavill, and I assume you need no reminder of who he is. *And speaking of Henry Cavill, this little birdie knows he will NOT be continuing on in his role as The Witcher , presumably because he is returning to his Superman role. The hunky Liam Hemsworth will be taking his place, so don’t be too sad about it. Helena Bonham Carter also returns as the Holmes’s mother. Streaming Nov. 4 Orgasm Inc.: The Story of OneTaste – OneTaste sprung from San Francisco’s tech bubble as a sexual wellness company hailed by top health & wellness outlets as a path to fulfillment. They gained global notoriety through the teaching of a practice called “orgasmic meditation.” This investigative doc employs access to 15 years of never-before-seen footage and interviews with former members who have shocking allegations to pull back the curtain on the organization and its controversial, enigmatic leader. Streaming Nov. 5 State of Alabama vs. Brittany Smith – The harrowing story of a woman trying to use Alabama’s Stand Your Ground law after killing a man she says brutally attacked her. Streaming Nov. 10 Falling for Christmas – A young, newly engaged heiress has a skiing accident in the days before Christmas. After she’s diagnosed with amnesia, she finds herself in the care of the handsome cabin owner and his daughter. I’m sure what ensues will be nothing short of a big, fat shocker. Streaming Nov. 10 Pepsi, Where’s My Jet? – This doc tells the story of Pepsi’s ambitious campaign, a multimillion-dollar fighter jet, and a teenage boy who just wanted his plane back, so he decided to take on one of the largest corporations in America. This one’s gonna be a ride! Streaming Nov. 17 I Am Vanessa Guillen – Guillen was 20 years old when she was found murdered at a U.S. Army base. Rather than submit to silence, her family fought for justice and change. Streaming Nov. 17 Slumberland – Starring everyone’s favorite Horse Lord, Jason Momoa stars as a giant eccentric outlaw who helps a young girl who discovered a secret map to the dream world of Slumberland. They traverse dreams and flee nightmares in hopes she will be able to see her late father again, with the help of Momoa. Streaming Nov. 18 Wednesday - Netflix's Addams' Family series is all about the teen years of one of the O.G. goth girls. Having been booted from Nancy Reagan High School for defending her brother's honor by way of flesh-eating fish, Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) is now going to the school where her macabre and loving parents first met. But at Nevermore Academy, there's a mystery lurking underneath its floorboards, and I'm sure Wednesday will find it. Streaming Nov. 23 APPLETV Causeway - Starring Jennifer Lawrence as Lynsey, a U.S. soldier who experiences a traumatic brain injury during her tour in Afghanistan that forces her to return home. She struggles to reclaim her daily life at home in New Orleans with her mother as she waits for her eventual redeployment. Also stars Samira Wiley ( The Handmaid's Tale ) and Brian Tyree Henry ( Atlanta ). Streaming Nov. 4 Mosquito Coast , Season 2 - Based on the more nuanced 80s novel by Paul Theroux, Justin Theroux ( Wanderlust ) is back as a brilliant inventor and stubborn idealist who uproots his family for a dangerous quest through Mexico to flee the U.S. government and find safety. Streaming Nov. 4 Mythic Quest , Season 3 - If you're a Sunny in Philadelphia fan or a gamer, you should be watching this series. Starring Rob McElhenney, F. Murray Abraham, and Charlotte Nicdao, this hilarious workplace sitcom about video game development will keep you highly entertained. Streaming Nov. 11 Spirited - A musical version of Charles Dickens' story of a miserly misanthrope who is taken on a magical journey. Stars Will Ferrell and Ryan Reynolds. Streaming Nov. 11 Echo 3 - When scientist Amer Chesborough goes missing along the Colombia-Venezuela border, her brother and her husband struggle to find her against the backdrop of a secret war. Starring Luke Evans. Streaming Nov. 23 HULU God Forbid: The Sex Scandal That Brought Down a Dynasty – A Miami pool boy finds himself trapped in a seven-year affair with a charming older woman … and her husband, the Evangelical Trump stalwart Jerry Falwell Jr., as he becomes increasingly entangled with the Falwell’s seemingly perfect lives. Currently streaming Fleishman is in Trouble – Starring Claire Danes, Jesse Eisenberg, Lizzy Caplan, and Adam Brody, this one is based on a novel by the same name from author Taffy Brodesser-Akner. This limited series is about a divorced doctor and father who’d just started dipping his toes into the dating pool when his ex-wife mysteriously disappears. Streaming Nov. 17 Welcome to Chippendales – This true-crime series tells the real-life story of Chippendales founder Somen “Steve” Banejee (Kumail Nanjiani), an Indian immigrant who turned a failing Los Angeles bar into a global phenomenon … but as you all know with Chippendales, there’s more to see than meets the eye. Streaming November 22 Planet Sex – A six-episode docuseries that explores how sexuality differs from community to community and looks at what is studied at a scientific sex research lab. Cara Delevigne hosts. Streaming Nov. 29 PRIME My Policeman – An Amazon Prime Video Original, this romantic-drama tells the story of a forbidden romance and the changing social conventions surrounding it over the course of several decades. Starring Harry Styles, Linus Roache ( Mandy ), Emma Corrin ( The Crown ), Gina McKee ( Black Narcissus, The Rook ), David Dawson ( The Last Kingdom ), and Rupert Everett ( My Best Friend’s Wedding ). Streaming Nov. 4 The English – This six-episode-series is a Western-drama is about Pawnee scout Eli Whipp, played by Chaske Spencer ( Banshee, The Twilight Saga film series ), who is released from long-term army service in 1890 Oklahoma and hell-bent on returning north to his ancestral homelands in Nebraska to stake a legal land claim. Also stars Emily Blunt, Tom Hughes (The Laureate) and Ciarán Hinds ( Zack Snyder’s Justice League ). Streaming Nov. 11 The People We Hate at the Wedding – Another Amazon Prime Original movie, this raunchy new comedy is about dysfunctional siblings Kristen Bell and Ben Platt ( Pitch Perfect ) and their ever-optimistic mom, played by Allison Janney, as they receive a surprise invite to their estranged British half-sister’s wedding. Good for a watch with your own relative at Thanksgiving! Streaming Nov. 18 **Sidenote: If you haven’t seen LOU on Netflix, you absolutely should hop on over there and watch Allison Janney kick some serious ass and go toe-to-toe with her son, played by Logan Marshall Green. It’s really good. PEACOCK A Friend of the Family – This released back in early October, but IT’S SO UNBELIEVABLE (and still going), I just can’t pass on mentioning it again. It’s truly the most incredible true-crime story I’ve ever heard or seen. I usually have a lot to say during series I’m watching. With this one, literally the only three things my Dummy (husband) and I have said while watching it are, “HOLY SHIT,” “Oh my God,” and “I cannot believe this actually happened. WhAT the f***?!” I’m not kidding. This true-crime drama miniseries is based on true events and follows Robert Berchtold, a close friend of the Broberg family, who kidnaps young Jan Broberg twice over a period of two years, and the shit he tells her about why is absolutely astounding … and she believed it for years. Further making this so shocking is the fact that local, state, and national law enforcement pretty much cleared the way of any culpability for him to do it. There’s so much more to the story, but I won’t divulge it all here. I want you to go watch it for yourself. Then I want you to let me know how you reacted while watching it. Currently streaming The Independent – This political thriller stars Brian Cox ( Succession ), Jodie Turner-Smith ( White Noise ), John Cena, and Ann Dowd ( The Handmaid’s Tale )—to name a few. In the final weeks of the most consequential presidential election in history, and America is poised to elect either its first female president or its first viable independent candidate. An idealistic young journalist teams up with her idol, legendary journalist Nick Booker, to uncover a conspiracy that places the fate of the election, and the country, in their hands. Streaming exclusively on Peacock Nov. 2 The Calling, Season 1 – A Peacock Original, here’s a psychological crime thriller about NYPD detective Avraham Avraham, whose belief in mankind is his superpower when it comes to uncovering the truth. He’s guided by his sense of spirituality and religious principles, until a seemingly routine investigation turns everything upside down and leaves Avraham questioning his own humanity. Streaming Nov. 10 Leopard Skin, Season 1 – A criminal gang fleeing a botched jewelry heist is forced to hide out in a beachside estate where two women live in seclusion. Their world soon turns into a hothouse filled with secrets, betrayal, and desire. Stars Carla Gugino, Ana de la Reguera ( Goliath ), Philip Winchester ( Strike Back ), Gaite Jansen ( Peaky Blinders ), Margot Bingham ( The Walking Dead ), Gentry White ( Kingdom, Jett ), and Amelia Eve ( The Haunting of Bly Manor ). Streaming Nov. 17 Nope – I LOVED this film. I also will never again look at clouds the same way. This Jordan Peele flick offers a new take on the classic abduction story. Stars Academy Award Winner Daniel Kaluuya ( Get Out, Us ), Keke Palmer ( i), and Academy Award Nominee Steven Yuen ( The Walking Dead ). Nope makes its Peacock debut on Nov. 18. Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin – Everyone’s favorite acapella fool Adam Devine is back doin’ his thang, only this time he’s in Berlin. Having moved to Germany to revive his music career, Bumper is surprised when one of his tunes hits it big in Berlin. Also stars Jameela Jamil ( The Good Place ) and Sarah Hyland ( Modern Family ). Streaming exclusively on Peacock Nov. 23 PARAMOUNT+ Yellowstone , Season 5 - The Duttons are back, and this time John (Kevin Costner) is gonna get a taste of what we all already know: politics complicate your life. And, yes, Rip will no doubt be there. Binge seasons 1-4 now to catch up! Streaming Nov. 13 Transformers: EarthSpark – This heartwarming animated series introduces the first generation of Terrans-Transformers born on Earth. With the help of their human caretakers, these Terrans are redefining the meaning of the world family. Streaming Nov. 11 Tulsa King – A gritty new drama series from Yellowstone ’s Taylor Sheridon! After 25 years in prison, New York mafia capo Dwight “The General” Manfredi is sent away to Tulsa, OK, to set up new territory for his mob family. However, upon arrival in town, the once-great mobster realizes his skills might be a bit rusty. Starring Sylvester Stallone. Streaming Nov. 13 HBO & HBO MAX * Film fanatics will be ecstatic to learn that HBO Max will now carry all eight films in the Harry Potter franchise, as well as the entirety of the Star Trek movie series, in case you were curious. Titans , Season 4 – In untypical fashion, the series is under a new airing strategy, dropping two episodes tonight in premiere, then four more episodes over the next four weeks. After that, it’s a who-knows-how-long mid-season break. Per Collider , this season suggests something dark is coming. After saving Gotham, the Titans hit the road to head back to San Francisco but after a stop in Metropolis, they find themselves in the crosshairs of a supernatural cult with powers unlike anything they’ve faced before. Looks like the main villain this season will be Sebastian Blood, aka Brother Blood, played by The Originals star Joseph Morgan. Streaming Nov. 3 Low Country: The Murdaugh Dynasty – This chilling three-part docuseries chronicles the legacy of the Murdaugh family, whose century long power influence over the legal system in South Carolina’s low country unravels amid acdcusations of fraud, deception, and murder. Intense and full of twists, it questions the unchecked power of privilege—and the trail of death and destruction left in one family’s wake. Season 3 streaming Nov. 3 Don’t Worry Darling – A psychological thriller film directed by Olivia Wilde. Set in the 1950s California desert, a housewife starts to suspect her husband (Harry Styles) and the idyllic community she lives in have a sinister secret. Don’t Worry Darling has become infamous for the off-screen drama between Wilde and Shia LaBeouf that dominated the media months before its release. Streaming Nov. 7 Say Hey, Willie Mays! – Follow Mays’ life both on and off the field over five decades as he navigated the American sports landscape and the country’s ever-evolving cultural backdrop, all while helping to define what it means to be one of America’s first Black sports superstars. Streaming Nov. 8 The Big Brunch, Season 1 – Everyone’s favorite Schitt’s Creek actor Dan Levy is back with a cooking competition show he created to celebrate inspiring, undiscovered culinary voices from every corner of the country. This eight-episode cooking series gives ten talented chefs the opportunity to share their stories and business dreams while vying for a life-altering $300,000 cash prize. Streaming Nov. 10 A Christmas Story Christmas – Annnd everyone’s favorite Christmas kid is back, only now he’s all grown up and returning to his hometown with his own kids to say goodbye to his father. Get your box of snot rags ready; this one’s poised to be more of a tearjerker than a comedy—though that’s not to say there won’t be any. Streaming Nov. 17 Santa Camp – Watch real-life Santas go to school in this Max Original documentary film. Every summer, a horde of professional Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and elves descend on a campsite in the New Hampshire woods to learn the tricks of their trade. But this year will be different. The organizers of the 100-strong New England Santa Society have decided to tackle the lack of diversity in the Santa industry. They enlist a Black Santa named Chris, a Santa with a disability named Finn, and a transgender Santa named Levi. Streaming Nov. 17 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony - Streaming Nov. 19 Shaq – This documentary showcases the life of the L.A. Lakers champion from sports phenom to cultural figure. Streaming Nov. 23 Love, Lizzo – Personally, I can’t wait for this! I adore Lizzo. And what a message I’m certain she’ll be spreading. In this intimate documentary, the multi-platinum artist gets candid about body positivity, self-love, and recognizing Black women for their contributions. Streaming Nov. 24 My So-Called High School Rank – This documentary goes deep into the lives of high school students in three radically disparate communities as they navigate the pressures around college while staging a musical, until seismic events upend their dreams and expectations. Streaming Nov. 29 Other titles dropping this month on HBO/HBOMax – Chris Redd: Why Am I Like This? , Magnolia Table with Joanna Gaines (Season 7), Sesame Street (Season 53), My Sesame Street Friends (Season 3), Batwheels (Season 1C), Craig of the Creek (Season 4D), We’re Here (Season 3), Holiday Harmony, A Christmas Mystery, King Tweety, Master of Light, Lil Rel Howery: I Said It: Y’all Thinking It DISNEY PLUS Willow - The fantasy epic every 80s kid loved is back with a sequel series featuring original cast member Warwick Davis as the titular dward sorcerer. So much is planned to happen, and the effects look pretty cool. It'll absolutely be worth watching. Streaming Nov. 24 Disenchanted - Disney would have us believe some spells take 15 years or more to kick in with how long they've made us wait for this one. Amy Adams, Patrick Dempsey, James Marsden, and Idina Menzel are back as Giselle, Robert Philip, Prince Edwards, and Nancy Tremaine are back in this sequel to 2007's movie of the same name that ponders what happens after your favorite Disney princesses and princes get their "happily ever after" moment. Drama and chaos will ensue! Streaming Nov. 24 Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday - The Guardians are back, at least for the holidays. Gamora is still MIA and Star-Lord is deep in his feels. Mantis and Drax are coming to the rescue, though: they plan to go to Peter's home planet Earth and find him the ultimate holiday gift. Hilariously, their choice is actor Kevin Bacon, played by none other than Kevin Bacon. With a runtime of just under an hour, this'll be a great holiday watch with your bigs and littles. Streaming Nov. 25 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

Her Riot! proved that when you give women the stage, they tear down walls. < Back Her Riot Ignites Mid City: A Fierce Celebration of Women in Music Rian Nickels Jun 17, 2025 Share Her Riot! proved that when you give women the stage, they tear down walls. If you’ve ever been to concerts or gigs, both underground and mainstream, there’s one thing that’s always been evident: the punk and alternative music scene is heavily saturated with men. After a year of photographing Louisiana’s underground, I noticed that I had only shot a few women. Don’t get me wrong, these men are insanely talented, but as a woman working in the music industry, I craved the feminine energy that I felt was missing from the stage. I thought to myself, “ How could I change this? ” So, as co-founder of Feel Alive Media + Events , I knew the answer was to organize a music showcase that was femme-focused, and that’s how “Her Riot!” came to life. Her Riot! is a Louisiana music showcase run by femmes and for femmes (and anyone down to support them). The ultimate goal of the showcase is to bring attention to women in music, to give them center stage, and create a space in alternative music that’s curated for feminine talent to thrive. On April 18th, 2025, Feel Alive Media + Events had their first installment of Her Riot! at Mid-City Ballroom in Baton Rouge, LA . For the lineup, we selected bands from around South Louisiana , featuring femme vocalists, some of which we had previously worked with, and others I had only been admiring from afar. The genre mixed bill consisted of: MADmoiselle , Abby and The Arsonists , Sick At Heart , and Gutzombie . The official flyer for Her Riot! Kickin’ off the night was MADmoiselle (also known as “MAD”), a four-piece band from Baton Rouge . Even though they are a relatively new and an underground band, they packed the venue from the start of the show. Many came to support them and were actively engaged to boost the crowd's participation. MAD performed their original music, featuring songs like ' Uneasy ,' and also sprinkled in well-loved covers, such as ' Daylily ' by Movements . These tracks were the perfect mix to show the insane, Hayley Williams -like vocal range that front-woman Maddi Delacroix is capable of bringing to the stage. Maddi and her bandmates brought just the right kind of feminine energy needed to set the vibe for the rest of the night. Credit: Rian Nickels After a brief intermission of concert-goer mingling, it was Abby and The Arsonists , from New Orleans , turn to bless our ears with underground tunes. The Arsonists are comprised of brother-sister duo Abby and Andrew Lewis , Kelsey Kroening , and drummer Luke Joia . I was excited for this set because Feel Alive hadn’t previously worked with them, and I had been following them on Instagram since the day I started my music photography profile. In a bayou of predominantly heavy metal Abby and The Arsonists are a breath of fresh air. They bring a shoegaze-emo-pop-folky-indie sound that admirably can’t be put into boxes. They played a complete lineup of originals with tracks from their newest album, Caterpillars in the Walls . Between songs, Abby spilled some gossip about the origins of their track ' Lala '. This made the set feel like a music and comedy performance all in one, while also breaking down the barriers between the performers and the audience, making us feel like we were all in on a secret. Credit: Rian Nickels After some whimsical, mellow vibes, it was time to kick it up a bit with Sick At Heart . Sick At Heart is a metalcore band from Lafayette fronted by Elise LeBlanc . Their sound brings me back to the nostalgic feel of bands like Evanescence and Flyleaf ; there’s no pitch that Elise can’t reach, and her bandmates help to bring back a sound in music that has felt forgotten recently. They shook the walls of Mid-City with Sick At Heart originals like ' Losing Control ' and ' The Game ' but really locked in the audience with covers like ' Decode ' by Paramore , and ' Face Down ' by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus . To wrap up their performance, they played ' Zombie ' by The Cranberries . I think performing this song was a beautiful way to pay homage to the women in music who came before us, who had to pave the way to create a space for us in the industry. Credit: Rian Nickels Closing out and headlining Her Riot was Punk/Post-Hardcore band Gutzombie from Baton Rouge , fronted by Ashen Bonaventure . The energy Ashen brings is unmatched, and it’s evident that she pours her heart and soul into her passion. Starting strong with the femme power vibes, they played ' Just a Girl ' by No Doubt ; hearing women scream “ I’M JUST A GIIIIIRL ” in punk spaces was just what I needed to feel like my goal to have women heard was met. They went on to perform their tracks, such as ' Absolutely ' and ' Much Ado '. Aside from her voice, one of the most impressive things about Ashen is her stage presence. From jumping and thrashing around to crowd control, she brings just as much energy and dedication as large mainstream artists. A notable moment was when they played ' That’s What You Get ' by Paramore and let people from the front of the crowd sing the chorus into the mic. I love it when an artist breaks down the hypothetical walls between the stage and the floor. For their last song, they surprised everyone by bringing Maddi from MADMoiselle back to the stage to help cover Pierce The Veil 's hit song ' Bulls In The Bronx '. This was really sick for two reasons. This cover showcases the band's overall talent, featuring brutal guitar riffs, fast-paced drumming, vocal screaming, and the range of the vocals themselves. It’s also just neat to see two women come together to help their voices be heard; it felt like an actual sleepover with your friends rocking your favorite emo tunes. Gutzombie rocked the house so hard that I got to witness an encore call at an underground gig for the first time. Credit: Rian Nickels Her Riot! It wasn’t just a gig, it was a revolt. It was the scream from the back of the room that finally made it to the mic. It was the eyeliner-smudged, glitter-smeared reminder that women aren’t just guests in alternative music. It was black boots stomping floors that weren’t built for us. We weren’t there to be anyone’s opener or somebody’s girlfriend, but instead to be the main act . We weren’t there to ask for space, but to take it. Every band, every lyric, every scream pulled a piece of this scene into a new shape, one where femme voices aren’t background noise. For too long, alternative music has been a boys' club where women are expected to be quiet, to play nice, and be cheerleaders. But that night at Mid-City Ballroom , we flipped the script. We weren’t there to prove ourselves but to be loud, to be seen, and unignorable. There’s room for softness and strength, lipstick and leather, breakdowns and breakthroughs. Her Riot! proved that when you give women the stage, they tear down walls. A little recap for ya! If you missed the first Her Riot! that’s okay because we’re not done yet. April 2025 was only the first installment, and there are more voices to be heard. I’m planning for Her Riot to become a quarterly event with the hopes of having the first Her Riot! Fest in 2026. If you are a femme-fronted band or a vendor curated towards women, get in touch with us at Feel Alive Media + Events to be a part of a femme movement. *All photos by Rian Nickels Photography Rian.musicjpeg To learn more about the bands featured in this showcase, just hit one of the links below: MADmoiselle | Spotify ‎ MADmoiselle - Apple Music Abby and the Arsonists | Spotify ‎Abby and the Arsonists - Apple Music Sick At Heart | Spotify ‎Sick At Heart - Apple Music GUTZOMBIE | Spotify ‎Gutzombie - 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 out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

All the stuff you need to watch NOW! Bingeworthy Oct 10, 2023 Star Trek Lower Decks: Bingeworthy Lower Decks is arguably the best show of Star Trek’s modern era and is a love letter to the franchise that reminds fans not to take it too seriously. Read More Sep 25, 2023 Sons of Anarchy: Bingeworthy Sons of Anarchy is one hell of a binge-worthy ride depicting an outlaw motorcycle club as an analogy for human transformation. Read More

Phantum Sun’s music blends the ethereal with the visceral in a lush atmospheric fusion. < Back Phantum Sun: An Immersive Journey Through Sound Margo Leblanc Aug 26, 2024 Share Phantum Sun’s music blends the ethereal with the visceral in a lush atmospheric fusion. Phantum Sun , a Louisiana-based band from Lafayette known for its unique sound and dependability, has recently surprised the local music scene with its unwavering work ethic and drive. But why? What started it all, and who influenced them? Who is Phantum Sun ? Phantum Sun is grunge with a bit of rock and a little alternative . They don’t have one specific category that their music falls into. The band makes music for those who appreciate the artistry of creating songs. Phantum Sun started because of Nick Cline and Alec Louviere's high school aspirations to create together. In 2023, when long-time friend Drake Lasseigne joined the two, the line-up became complete, and here we are. The trio is full of spirit and angst, shown heavily in their music. Nick is on vocals and guitar, Drake is on bass, and Alec rounds it all out on the kit. Credit: Facebook Phantum Sun’s music balances the familiar warmth of nostalgic tones with a forward-thinking approach to composition. Lyrically, Phantum Sun is all about introspection and emotional depth. The lyrics aren’t always straightforward, but that’s part of their charm. With three singles under their belt, the band’s latest song, ‘ Robbery ,’ was released in May 2024 and is reminiscent of early 90s alt-rock by The Smashing Pumpkins , Screaming Trees , and Buffalo Tom . Mixed Alt Mag recently had the opportunity to speak with the guys from Phantum Sun about their music, aspirations, and more. Take a moment to learn what makes this band so unique below. MAM : Thank you for speaking with me today. First, who inspired you to pursue music, and how did they influence your original songs? Alec : Anything 80s related to rock' n’ roll got me to get up and start learning drums. Feeling the beat and sound of that era made me want to get up and do the stuff these guys were doing. Drake : I’ve been interested in music since I was a kid but didn’t have an outlet to learn to play an instrument until middle school. I took up saxophone, but it’s not the type of music I was into. My dad loved the look and sound of the grunge movement in the '90s, so he showed me the hard bass lines of Krist Novoselic and the melody powerhouses Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell . No questions what inspires me to make music. Nick : My biggest inspirations were my love of blues, grunge, metal, and everything really. I grew up listening to Ozzy Osbourne , Metallica , Stevie Ray Vaughan , Soundgarden , Green Day , and Alice in Chains . Eventually, I found myself fascinated with garage rock, which was my tipping point regarding sound and songwriting. All my influences have now fused to make one absurd amalgamation of tones, influences, and passion. It all ties together to make up the sound of Phantum Sun. Credit: Facebook MAM : How would you describe writing new music and the process that goes with it? Alec : I like to feel what the other two put together, then come in and see what fits the style we’re going for in that specific song. Drake : Nick writes the guitar parts and lyrics, so whenever he shows them to us, I watch and listen to what he has to say and start thinking of bass lines that match to get the best bass line I can for that particular song. Nick : I usually write many lyrics and guitar parts per day. Then, I bring the melodies, guitar parts, and lyrics to the band. After that, we jam and feel out the idea until it sounds like what we want as a unit. Credit: Facebook MAM : Who would you love to collaborate with one day? Why that person? Alec : I’d personally love to collaborate with Tommy Lee , just to study and learn about his drumming style. Drake : Definitely, Dave Grohl . Dave is my favorite musician and seems to be a genuinely good guy. He knows so much about the industry that I could learn from. Nick : I would love to collaborate with Jack White . Jack is why I picked up the guitar five years ago, and I haven’t put it down since. His guitar tone and passion for music would make for a wicked collaboration that would lead to me learning more as a musician. Credit: Facebook MAM : Where is your favorite venue where you’ve performed so far? I know you guys have been playing shows like crazy. Alec : I enjoy outdoor venues, partially because we can be as loud as we want; it feels freer, and the crowd tends to engage more. Drake : The 19th Hole in Houston, Texas has been my favorite so far. The bar's vibe has been immaculate every time we’ve been there; the stage is huge, and the sound guy is amazing and does such a great job. Nick : My favorite venue is a toss-up between Artmosphere and the 19th Hole . Both venues have shown unimaginable kindness to me and the guys. The vibe and sound of both venues keep me wanting to come back more and more every time we play there. Credit: Facebook MAM : That’s awesome. Having the support of the venues is enormous, in my opinion. What skills have you learned along the way that help you to be productive as a musician? Alec : After learning bits and pieces from other bands that we’ve played with, I’ve learned to practice consistently, but also being patient really helps when it comes to drumming. Drake : To me, it’s the chemistry between Alec, Nick, and me on and off stage. It never gets tedious or tiring if you trust each other. Nick : Practicing, trust in the process, hard work, networking, and the ability to learn from the smallest lessons are all skills that I have adopted and built on to become a more productive musician. Credit: Facebook MAM : What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses in being musicians? Alec : I think my strengths and weaknesses go hand in hand; it’s weird. I’m still learning as we go. Drake : The ability to blend what Nick does on guitar and Alec does on drums into something that makes the song thicker and heavier. My weakness is my age, which is due to my lack of experience. I’ve only been playing bass since 2021. Nick : I think my greatest strength as a musician is my never-ending sense of wonder and passion for music. It keeps me on the path of learning and evolving as a songwriter and musician. My greatest weakness is my need to be too hard on myself. Credit: Facebook MAM : Outside of music, what other hobbies and interests do you have? Alec : I know it’s probably not a “cool” thing to admit, but I’m a huge wrestling fan. I’m all about anything WWE . I also love puzzles, if anyone needed more proof of me being a nerd. (laughter) Drake : I’m a big outdoorsman. I love hunting and fishing, especially here in my home state of Louisiana . I feel so comfortable when I’m either on stage, on a boat, or in a duck blind. Nick : Outside of music, I am deeply interested in learning about anything I can, writing, watching horror, fantasy, sci-fi, etc., reading comics (preferably DC), and whatever else sparks the ADHD fuel in my head. Credit: Facebook MAM : What would you be doing if it weren’t for your interest in a music career? Alec : In all honesty, I have no idea. I never really had a backup plan. Drake : I’d probably be going to college for something related to the tech industry, but I never really had a plan B in mind. Nick : I would be in a field related to writing. Writing has always been my second love, after music, so anything dealing with that would be great for me. With their first tour approaching this fall, Phantum Sun continues to work hard to make a name for themselves in the local scene and beyond. If they come to your town, take a chance and see them live. You might just be a little surprised. They are a band built on hopes, dreams, and aspirations of someday making it big with raw talent and an unconditional love for music. That love fuels their drive to pursue no other life paths besides making music for the masses. To experience the music of Phantum Sun, just hit one of the links below. Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/artist/5PdjxAClNtSIyvvnj2vgsU Apple Music : https://music.apple.com/us/artist/phantum-sun/1710758804 YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/@phantumsunofficial Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/people/Phantum-Sun/61556703719338/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/phantumsunband/ www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Margo Leblanc loves listening to music, writing about music, and discovering new music. Do you have a band you think she'd like? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Your only source for what's new in Rap, Hip-hop, and R&B as well as a look back at those who pioneered the Game. The beat Apr 5, 2025 Floating Above the Bayou: Brax is Elevating Southern Cloud Rap to New Heights Brax isn’t afraid to experiment with new textures and sounds. Read More Dec 11, 2023 Jonathan Machen aka Profit: Finding Refuge in Music Jonathan Machen aka Profit is a lyrical prophet of rock and hip-hop subgenres fueled by the deepest levels of pain and enlightenment. Read More Nov 13, 2023 Miles Nxbxdy: Revolutionizing Hip-Hop Miles Nxbxdy pushes the boundaries of hip-hop by challenging expectations and broadening horizons. Read More Oct 20, 2023 Gino V.: Redefining the Music Scene with Rhythm and Soul Gino V’s unique ability to infuse his compositions with emotion, technical proficiency, and soul will shape and inspire generations of musicians to come. Read More Oct 2, 2023 Shawn Franklin: Music Producer Extraordinaire Shawn Franklin redefines the music production landscape with his top-notch restorations and collaborations. Read More May 22, 2023 Alfred Banks: A Blessing from the Crescent City Insightful, brilliant, and talented Read More Apr 7, 2023 DJ Skillspinz: A Classically Trained Master of Combining Textures and Beats Tony Biggs Read More Jan 11, 2023 The OG’s of Rap and Rock Fusion are Back Stone Deep Read More

Alabama Smoke Show proves that the future of music in Huntsville is bright! < Back Off The Charts: Alabama Smoke Show Bud Gambrell Aug 1, 2024 Share Alabama Smoke Show proves that the future of music in Huntsville is bright! On June 20, 2024, I booked a photography gig for the Alabama Smoke Show at the VBC Mars Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama . At that time, I wasn't sure what it would be. I thought that I was booking just another show. To my surprise, this was more than just another show. As I looked closer at the lineup, I saw some familiar names. Several artists I knew were playing. You may have become familiar with Brandon Elder in my last article, and you’ll hear more from him in this piece. Yours truly arrived early to learn more about the Alabama Smoke Show, where I found my way backstage to spend time with old friends and make some new ones. Of course, one of the people I had to hunt down was my new friend, Brandon Elder. After my last article on Brandon , our paths crossed several more times in public. Isn't it wild how life works sometimes? I pulled Brandon aside first and asked his view on The Alabama Smoke Show. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Brandon, what have you been up to since we last spoke? BE : Man, I'm just gigging and trying to stay out there. I've been looking forward to this show! OTC : For those who may not know, tell us what the Alabama Smoke Show is. BE : So, I think this is the first year that they've done the Smoke Show, and it's just a lot of local, good guys just coming together and trying to put some country music together that people will enjoy. It's also a chance for all the local artists that play to take a breath for a minute and get to hang out and just have a night together. We don't get to see each other a whole lot. We all know each other, but we never see each other. We're all playing at different venues, so the Alabama Smoke Show is where we can get together, have a good night, and play music. OTC : There is a lot of talent on that stage tonight. What does it mean to you to be playing on that stage tonight? BE : Honestly, I'm just happy to be here! Most of the guys who will be on stage tonight are buddies of mine. There are only a couple of them that I have never met. Three of them went to the same high school I went to, so it's fun to be with these guys who share my interests, enjoy the music, and have a good time. As I was hanging out backstage talking to the artists, I managed to find the organizer for the Smoke Show. When I learned who it was and dug deeper, I was surprised by a few things, mainly his age. At 18 years old, Jonah Evans put together The Alabama Smoke Show. Unbelievable. Jonah organized the event, booked the bands, and sang in the headlining band. He has been super busy leading up to the Smoke Show. OTC : What led you to want to organize The Alabama Smoke Show? JE : I'd say there are just a lot of young guys in Huntsville, in the North Alabama area, that people have turned their heads to because we're, you know, we're young. We should be heard because we are talented musicians, and I think we can hang with pretty much anybody. I want to let it be known. OTC : How did you decide on the artists to invite? JE : We opened for 5ive O'clock Charlie in Falkville, so I've been friends with Mike for about two years, and he told me he had a son named Jude. And then I knew Dylan through Jude because they were in a band called the Debriefers. Brandon and I went to the same elementary and high schools. I found Caleb on TikTok and became good friends with him. Then Dawson Slade I saw him on American Idol . He's my age, and he's good! And then Kade Pierce hit me on Facebook a while ago and wanted to write something. He's got some pretty dad-gum good songs, so I'll have him out for the writer's round. And then came Kam [Jones] , who was big in the Huntsville scene, and Jude told me I must get this guy because he's got some pretty good songs, too. I love original music, so anybody who can write a good song will like it, and I will try to help them out the best I can. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Now, Jonah, walk me through the process and the time it took to put this all together. JE : OK, I had this big show idea about a month and a half ago for a prominent global young artist showcase, and I wanted it to include everyone young and coming up—you know, the next generation of young Huntsville staples. I tried everywhere I thought would say yes, and my last shot was the Von Braun Center . I just sent the email, man, and it went straight from there. OTC : You must be kidding me! With this much talent, this show took only a month and a half to assemble. JE : Yeah, that was a month and a half of work. I did a lot of behind-the-scenes work, but we sold out the whole top row about an hour after tickets went on sale. It'll have a bigger turnout next year. I know it. Don't get me wrong, it was a great turnout this year, especially for something only advertised for a month, but I anticipate bigger crowds. The plan is to get a date down in December next year, and we'll have a lot more time to advertise. Credit: Bud Gambrell While I was hanging out backstage, I ran into Bill Neal. Our ventures are similar because we both aim to promote artists and music. Bill runs a podcast called Pickletato . Trust me on this. It is a fun podcast. I will leave a link at the end of the story. OTC : Bill, tell me what you are doing tonight representing the Pickletato podcast. BN : So, tonight was the first time we went live. We were going to go live on YouTube, but we had some technical issues we weren't prepared for. We tried testing this out two or three days ago but couldn't get YouTube to work for reasons beyond our control. We were able to go live on Facebook , though. We just wanted to show people familiar with us some backstage stuff happening and get people out here for the Alabama Smoke Show . OTC : What is the overall goal for your podcast? BN : The overall goal is to get the podcast as big as possible. Once again, it's not selfish; the reason is that when somebody comes on the podcast, we want them to be exposed as much as possible. We're not getting any income from this. It's all on us. That shows people that we're not doing it to become Joe Rogan or anything like that. The main goal for the editor and I is that when we bring someone on the show, it will show their talent and story. OTC : Tell me how Pickletato began and why you do it. BN : My son and I discussed it in October and November 2023. Something happened to me that made me think, man, I know many people who have some great stories, and I needed to get these people out there because they should be famous for their actions. Some of their stories are just phenomenal. OTC : After launching it, have you changed how you produce the podcast? BN : If you compare the first season to what we're doing now regarding the intros, the outros, and the editing, the video is much better than it was in the first season. It has turned into something that we're proud of. So, we initially talked to a couple of people around here. 'Hey man, I want to start a podcast, but I want to do it because I want to get your story out there.' We just started talking to people, and they agreed. We didn't want any money, while we didn't have any money. After the first season, we're like, man, we got some excellent stories here. Let's step our game up with each season. So, for the second season, we invested in better cameras, and this season, we did some lighting, so we're deep into it now. Regarding funding, we're still not monetized on YouTube or anything. We're doing it independently to get people's stories out there. It's not about us. It's about the people we're interviewing, and that's the big reason why we're doing it. Credit: Bud Gambrell A couple of the band members I was familiar with were the singer and guitarists for The Alabama Heathens . I first met Jude Roberts through his father, Mike. Mike is a long-time staple in the Huntsville Music Scene. Off The Charts may have an article coming up sometime in the future that will feature Mike. While backstage, I pulled Dylan and Jude aside from the band The Debriefers because I had previously met them while filming a music video for another well-known local band. We had a great conversation; read more below. OTC : Jude, what does it mean to you to share the stage with all this talent at Mars Music Hall ? JR : I'm honored to be able to play on this stage. I've seen a lot of acts that I look up to on that stage, like Gov't Mule . I've seen Drive-By Truckers , Gary Clark Jr. , and Primus . All these big-name acts have shared this stage, and I'm honored to be able to share it. It is truly an honor! If you told me a year ago that I'd be playing in Mars Music Hall, I would have called you crazy! OTC : What do you like most about the life of a musician, and what do you like the least? JR : The music! It doesn't matter if you've had a bad day. But if I have a terrible day and go practice or play a gig, that makes me feel better because it's what I love to do. I wouldn't trade it for anything else. Driving home from Muscle Shoals at 3:00 in the morning is not very fun, though. OTC : What was the funniest thing that happened to you while you were on stage? JR : At a frat party in Birmingham, AL, I was playing, and somebody came up and licked my guitar mid-solo. I continued to play, and it was getting licked simultaneously. And then, not even five minutes later, you see them vomiting across the floor. I did not let him lick my guitar again. OTC : I’m not sure what to say to that. That is an insane story. (laughs) Dylan, what does it mean to you to be playing here tonight? DJ : Man, it feels great! We're stoked to get this opportunity. We never thought we'd be here this soon. All my idols have been here, so it's very special to me. It means a lot! I'm stoked! Alabama Heathens have been a band for about a year, so closing out our big July run by playing at Mars Music Hall is very special! OTC : What got you into music? DJ : I listened to records. When I was growing up, my father always had some music on the record player. OTC : What is it about music that makes you feel passion? DJ : The energy of the songwriting. If you hear an in-depth songwriter, you can almost feel like you've walked in their shoes. Credit: Bud Gambrell As we approached showtime, I asked Brandon Elder about his mental preparation for a performance. OTC : Do you follow a process or ritual to prepare for the stage? BE : You would need more time to put it in the article. (laughs) I'm just kidding. I can tell you what we've done all day. We sound-checked, and once everybody finished sound-checking, we had some pizza and then wrote a song. We hung out and jammed, had a few beers, and had fun with the day and the event. OTC : You all wrote a song backstage? Tell me a little about it or who was involved. BE : Every artist in the Alabama Smoke Show was in the room. It was a song that I had had an idea for. I had four lines written for the song. We were bouncing the ideas off each other, and I said, hey, I got this song, and everybody liked it, and we just rolled with it. It's not finished, but it's close, so hopefully, you'll hear that soon. Credit: Bud Gambrell Later in the evening, Brandon asked me if I wanted to hear a new song. You know I did! Honestly, I had no idea what I was about to hear. Brandon , accompanied by fiddle player Joanne Moger , began to play a song called House Divided for me . I am glad no one took a picture of me during that song because you would have seen my jaw all the way on the ground! It was a fantastic song, and I hope you will hear it soon. Be on the lookout! Backstage was like a cast of characters, and I loved every moment. Another musician I was previously familiar with was Kam Jones . Kam is a songwriter in Huntsville. He can be found playing in town solo or with his full band. I have enjoyed seeing both, and he is truly remarkable. I swore I wouldn't tell this part of the night, but why not? Before I started my recorder to do the interview, Kam twisted my arm. I mean, he had it twisted high and tight to do a shot of whiskey with him. I tried to say no, but he insisted. Ok, maybe he didn’t have to twist my arm all that much. Read on below. OTC : Kam, tell me a little about the Alabama Smoke Show from your perspective. KJ : Jonah approached me to do this, as did everybody else. As far as I know, this was an idea that he put together. It is his brainchild. He's gathered some incredibly talented songwriters and performers here tonight to put on a hell of a show. OTC : Now, Kam, you have already played your set. Tell me what it was like up there. KJ : It was very joyous and a lot of fun! I felt like I had some good friends up there, and we were having a good time. Everything was light and loose! OTC : Do you have anything coming up that you would like to tell us about? KJ : My single, ' Southern Weather, ' is coming out on August 28th, and I'll be all over town in the meantime. OTC : Where can we find the new single? KJ : You can find it anywhere you listen to music. My grandmother says Spoofify, but it's called Spotify . At first sight, the Alabama Smoke Show could have been brushed aside by most fans due to the age of the musicians. Please take my word for it: this event had the caliber of seasoned artists way beyond their years. Hopefully, this will be an annual event; I will watch for the dates if it returns next year. It's not often that I get to hang out backstage. My role as a photographer is usually at the front of the house or in the pit, but tonight, I arrived early to hang out backstage and talk to the artists I knew, and I’m glad I did. I encountered a remarkable group of people, and I can’t thank them enough for talking with me. After the night, one conclusion was clear: Huntsville has always been rich in talent. The youth on stage proved that the legacy and future of Huntsville's Music Scene are safe. The rising stars who performed at Mars Music Hall will carry the music torch in Huntsville for years. I know it. Thank you for stopping by and staying with me for this latest edition of Off the Charts ! As always, please drop me an email with your thoughts. Please tell me what you like or dislike about the column and articles. You may even have an idea for a future article; email me . Somebody, please send me an email. Getting an email up and running costs millions of dollars, and mine needs to be used! Just kidding. It didn’t cost millions, but I have your attention now. I would like to hear from you! Reach out! Help me shine a light on all our great talents in Alabama and beyond! Until next time, Keep your diamond down in the groove! Where to find Bud: Email: the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com Website: https://bgambrellphotography.com Amazon: https://a.co/d/1CLA9Tzk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bud.gambrell Where to find Brandon Elder: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandoneldermusic/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandoneldermusic/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2xiJP2U4qbFDWoD9ebOpZA Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/brandon-elder/1004631456 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrandonElderMusic Where to find Jonah Evans: Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jonah-evans/1702943396 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jonahevansmusic?si=EY9zEUUSaQgt4foQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonah.evans.144/about_details Where to find Kam Jones: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamljonesmusic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KamLJones?mibextid=ZbWKwL TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kam.jones.music?_t=8oUF4fCuewY&_r=1 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@kamjonesmusic?si=MH1qp_8gSbPIAQqr Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3eCCb48zuqQN57fKgNjd8F?si=EmjLMVSiTBiI4dWYMGJJ_g Where to find The Alabama Heathens: Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/99-miles/1705293419?i=1705293420 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3yif0RCKe3Oy7h2ow6hQFn?si=MpTR10vwQB6OPW_eb8Sg0A Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealabamaheathens/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551809874041 Where to find Jude Roberts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juderoberts290/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069812147038 Where to find Dylan Johnson: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylanjohnson.music/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/H0fqrDyKE2A?si=oQwEftT1Beyu_f8l Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100060446756708 Where to find Pickletato: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pickletato Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555703570599 pickletato@proton.me Instagram: Pickletato (@therealpickletato) • Instagram photos and videos Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Presenting Rocket City Night of Rock ‘n Roll by Mike Slaten Productions < Back Off the Charts: Local Rock ‘n Roll Takes Over Mars Music Hall Bud Gambrell Apr 11, 2025 Share Presenting Rocket City Night of Rock ‘n Roll by Mike Slaten Productions Is it possible to go to a party and not realize it is a party until you get there? I would say that is a tremendous yes! That is precisely what happened this past Saturday Night. This story begins on March 10, 2025 . I was surfing social media, searching for funny memes, when I came across a friend of mine, Mike Slaten ’s page. He had just announced that his production company had assembled a local concert at Mars Music Hall , part of the Von Braun Center . If your first guess is that I reached out to inquire whether they needed a photographer, you would be spot on. You think you’re getting to know me a little, huh? We can now fast forward to April 5, 2025 . It’s the day of the concert, and like most other shows I photograph, I arrive early. It was almost straightaway that I noticed that the atmosphere was very comfortable. It had the feeling that everyone there was friends. That impression was accurate. I learned from chatting with the musicians that many of them have worked together before, which adds great chemistry to the evening! Some had not, but everyone was fast friends when showtime came around. Also, everyone’s friend Bill Neal was in attendance backstage. Bill and his son Tracer (that name is a secret identity) produce a podcast called Pickletato . They were present to broadcast live teasers for the concert throughout the afternoon. You will soon learn more about Pickletato . First, we'll have a chance to catch up with Bill a little later in this article, so stay tuned! Second, I'm excited to share that I'll join the podcast Pickletato for a recording next week! I can't wait to dive into some fun discussions and explore new topics together. Stay tuned for that also. I plan to write an entertaining article about them and share their goals on their podcast. I can't wait to dive into their story! Tonight’s concert is named Rocket City Night of Rock N’ Roll , presented by Mike Slaten Productions . The show would consist of four local bands . Opening the night would be The Shoals' own Blind the Sky . Second on the stage will be a Huntsville favorite, Angry Native . The third act will be Mike Slaten’s band Tres Locos . I know. I thought the same thing. Mike organized the show, and his band didn’t headline. More on that later. Our headliner is New Atomic . Get ready because this night is chock-full of talent! Before I dive in, I want to give a massive shoutout to all the fantastic members of the four bands for making me feel so welcome. You all are awesome! You are all exceptional musicians, and even more importantly, you are outstanding individuals! Entertainment Booking & Event Manager, Craig Maples , and Mike Slaten of Mike Slaten Productions co-organized the Rocket City Night of Rock' N 'Roll concert. I spoke with the VBC and Mike to learn about this show. VBC’s Director of Marketing and Public Relations , Samantha Nielsen , gave me the venue's perspective. SN : The VBC focuses on bringing national touring acts to Mars Music Hall ; however, when we have open weekend dates, we love taking those opportunities to support our community’s local artists! Mars is a fantastic venue that is plug-and-play with our audio and visual setup, so the local acts have a unique experience to not only perform on the same stage as some of their favorite touring bands, but they also receive the complete rock-star treatment with tour-quality lighting and sound, as well as utilizing the backstage area and dressing rooms. In my discussion with Mike Slaten , he informed me of how it came to be from his side. MS : Last month, the VBC hosted a local show called the Anti Valentine's Day show with five local bands . Basically, Craig and the guys at Mars and the VBC said they were tired of the venue sitting empty in between when big national touring acts are coming through. They wanted to try to get people into the venue. It's a great venue! It doesn't need to sit here, taking up space and trying to generate revenue. So, they held that concert, and I think 400 or 500 people showed up. It was an excellent turnout. Everybody involved, you know, benefited from it. Samantha with the VBC went on to tell me. SN : For us, these local shows are a win-win all around. They’re great for the artists, get people inside the venue on what would otherwise be off nights, and allow us to host amazing shows for the community that are often free and for all ages. OTC : Mike, where did it all begin for you? MS : I've been talking to many VBC guys for years. Whenever any big show comes through, I ask, “Hey, you need an opener?” The answer is usually "no." When I learned about last month’s local show, I got back in touch and said, I'd like to put on a show here. When the first show went well, they hit me up and said they had a date available. I tried to pick out some of the best bands. Of course, I didn't get all of them. Hopefully, tons of great bands are on the list for future shows. We put together what I think is a very unique, diverse show of great local rock bands. And then everybody just started promoting and sharing, and the response has been excellent so far. So we're hoping for a good turnout. To give you a little background, I have been working with the VBC for the last few years as one of their pool of event photographers. I talk to Samantha often as she handles our bookings. The entire VBC staff is fantastic to work with! Unsurprisingly, they are opening the doors to our city’s wonderfully talented musicians! OTC : Mike, how did you decide on which bands to have for tonight? MS : So, it's bands that we have played with before and are friends with. There are a lot of other bands that we're friends with and have played with, but these are some of the bands that were available on this particular date, and you know, bands that we've built a good friendship with. I thought these bands would help bring in a good crowd and put on a great show. These are bands that I think deserve to be on a big stage in front of a good crowd and get to have an opportunity like this. OTC : Have you played at Mars before? MS : Once, Tres Locos played here. I think it was 2021 . They were doing local bands only during the pandemic. It was tables six feet apart and all that kind of stuff. You know, trying to get some people in during that time, and of course, it was still in the pandemic, so few people showed up. OTC : So, you played here once. I would guess there were a lot of nerves playing this stage for the first time. Now, you're coming back for a second time. Do you feel more relaxed so you can get out there and kick it up a notch? MS : Yeah, I think so. I mean, for me personally, I think there's always a little bit of nerves, especially if you're on a bigger stage or you have a really big crowd. Years ago, I learned from teachers and other people with more experience that nervousness is good if it's a nervous energy . It's good to direct that positively instead of letting it debilitate you to the point where you can't get up, perform, sing, or whatever. So yeah, there's always a little bit of nerves, but really just excitement. OTC : I'm familiar with your band, Tres Locos. I have also seen Angry Native before. I know what to expect from those two bands. It's going to be good! Now, I'm not familiar with the other two. Please tell me what I can expect from those other two bands playing tonight. MS : Alright, so Blind the Sky is from the Shoals area. If you know anything about musicians, bands, and people from there, it seems there’s something in the water. Every musician or band we've played with is from that area; there is something different about them. They are a two-piece band. They don't have a live drummer. They have drums programmed into their pedal boards, and it's incredible! They're phenomenal musicians! They are two guys who sometimes sound like a five or six-piece band. They've got keyboards programmed in the pedals. The bass player will play something that sounds like he's playing the piano. Epic, epic music, great songwriting. That's about the best way I can describe them. Then, New Atomic . They're the headliner. I think they started in 2020 , if I'm not mistaken. They've built a pretty substantial following in Huntsville . They play Furniture Factory , The Lone Goose , and Back 40 . You know, a lot of those places draw a vast crowd . They're fun! They're younger guys, so they attract a younger crowd, a younger audience. They're mostly playing originals, but they play a lot of stuff from the '90s at many of their bar gigs around town. They play Jimmy Eat World , Incubus , and Foo Fighters . They're really good and really fun. They play with a lot of energy, and many people around here like them. OTC : So, if I'm getting this right, you picked the bands, but your band is not the headliner. MS : Correct. I picked New Atomic to headline because I feel like they have a bigger local draw. The band will bring the most significant portion of the crowd. I think they should. They should headline the show. OTC : So, you were playing the odds. MS : Yep! As I mentioned earlier, Bill Neal from the podcast Pickletato was in attendance. I first met Bill at The Alabama Smoke Show in 2024 . That show was also at Mars Music Hall and highlighted some excellent local bands. Bills’ podcast does a fantastic job of highlighting local bands on a personal level. The podcast has grown to include live performances of the bands during their interviews. We will cover this a lot closer in an upcoming article. Of course, since Bill was in attendance, I had to ask him for his input on the concert we were attending. The Pickletato Podcast OTC : Bill, tell me what brings Pickletato here tonight. BN : Mike Slaten invited me. The reason he invited me is that Mike and I are good friends, and he wanted to know if I could help him, you know, promote the event and be able to do the interviews like I did earlier. I'm just trying to get the word out as much as possible so we can do this in the future. I think the outcome of what happens tonight, although we have some possible lousy weather coming in, will probably not be as good as we thought it would be. Maybe, maybe not. I might be wrong, but I think this weather coming in might be an issue. But I think the outcome is going to lead him to being able to bring local musicians into these types of venues again. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Are you familiar with the four bands playing tonight? BN : The only one I’m unfamiliar with is Blind the Sky . I think they're out of Muscle Shoals . Mike introduced me to them. When he said they would be on, I listened to some of their songs because I hadn't heard them. I really like their stuff! Hopefully, I can get those guys on our podcast in the future. We're pretty booked up for a good three months, but we will try to get those guys on there in the future. I'm very familiar with Tres Locos and Angry Native . I’ve known Flip and those guys for quite a while now. New Atomic . I just had those guys on the podcast, which hasn’t been released yet. It should be out here in the next week or so. Great group of guys! Sitting in with those guys was like watching brothers talk to each other, and seeing that many people in a band love each other so much was cool! You know, some bands barely even look at each other. But you can tell that those guys are tight. I think one of the reasons is that, as they said in an interview, they didn't really want to do this to get big or anything. They just wanted to be with friends and have a good time! I think that it shows with their music when they're playing. OTC : What do you think we're in store for tonight? Do you think there should be more people here tonight? BN : Oh, absolutely! More people should be here. I mean, this place should be packed! I wish this whole thing were being recorded. It's hard for a two-person team to record something this big, but it would be nice to have something like this recorded so people can see the quality of musicians that these guys are and the show they will be missing. A lot of these guys have their original songs. In my opinion, it should be at the top of the charts. They have some really good original songs that you know they’ll be playing tonight, so everybody and their brother should be here! This article has so much visual content that I can show you. I can show you the concert flyers, the stage, and how good they looked on stage. I can even show you backstage, where most people rarely get to see. The one thing I can’t show you, and I’m not sure I can precisely describe to you, is the camaraderie . Backstage is not where I often hang out but tonight was one of those nights when I did. I have seen bands use different green rooms, but I have noticed that they stay separate. The bands at The Rocket City Night of Rock N’ Roll were a fun mix of different styles, making every performance a unique experience! There is one thing that I have always enjoyed about a band playing live. That one thing is being able to tell that they enjoy what they do. I love seeing musicians enjoy what they are doing. I observed so much of that at this show. That enjoyment was backstage as well as on stage. Well done, guys! Until next time, Keep your diamond down in the groove! Where to find Bud: Email: the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com Website: https://bgambrellphotography.com Amazon: https://a.co/d/1CLA9Tz https://www.facebook.com/bud.gambrell My new book: Bud Gambrell Photography by Bud Gambrell | Blurb Books Where to find Mike Slaten Productions and Tres Locos: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1a5sMDVmAr/ https://www.facebook.com/share/1MSQ3QuxVh/ Where to find Blind the Sky: Facebook: Facebook Website; Blind The Sky | Rock Band Muscle Shoals Where to find Angry Native: Facebook: Facebook Where to find New Atomic: Facebook: Facebook Where to find Pickletato: YouTube: Pickletato - YouTube Facebook: Facebook *All photos by Bud Gambrell Photography www.bgambrellphotography.com Bud Gambrell Photography Bud Gambrell Photography 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 Do you have something you'd like Bud to cover? Reach out to him at the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The music of Jean Claude Seagal captures the complexities of life and relationships with melodic hooks and gritty rock sensibilities. < Back Jean Claude Seagal: A New Journey through Alternative Rock Nicole Brice Mar 22, 2024 Share The music of Jean Claude Seagal captures the complexities of life and relationships with melodic hooks and gritty rock sensibilities. Growing up as a teenager in the 90s, I was obsessed with DIY bands that did not conform to a certain look to get their messages across. I admired the authenticity of bands such as Sonic Youth, Buffalo Tom, The Breeders, and Archers of Loaf because of the raw power found in their music. Using scaled-down production techniques mixed with feedback and fuzz, these bands set a precedent for many who are trying to emulate their style now. They say that time repeats, and it is repeating now. Enter one of the newest bands in Baton Rouge, Jean Claude Seagal. With potent lyrics combined with a smooth delivery and just the right amount of grunge fuzz, these guys are emerging as a continuation of the alt/grunge sound of the 90s, and their music is packaged as such. Possessing personality and sheer talent, the band comprises Justin Tatman on vocals and guitar, Nick Maggio on bass, and Robby Gray on drums. Credit: Gary Governale Formed in 2024, Jean Claude Seagal’s first release is titled “State Champs,” and with this EP, the band has created a sound combining elements of indie rock, punk, and grunge, creating a style that is both familiar and fresh. With honest, confessional songwriting that speaks to our experiences and emotions, Jean Claude Seagal has created timeless music that will connect with listeners, reminding us of the power of honest, heartfelt songwriting. Click the picture to listen Mixed Alternative Magazine had the opportunity to chat with the guys of Jean Claude Seagal recently about the band's origins, plans, and much more, so take a moment to learn a little more about one of the newest bands on the scene in Baton Rouge. MaM : Thanks for meeting with me today. Let’s dive right in. How did the band name come about? Justin : I was in a band a long time ago, and we were trying to think of a name for it, and the drummer at the time suggested Jean Claude Seagal, and I thought it was the greatest thing I had ever heard, but we never used it, so years later, here we are. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : So, how do you all know each other? Nick : Well, I met Robby over a decade ago off Craig’s List. We were starting a couple of projects here and there, and I needed a guitar player, but see, we were all in the band, Minus One. This was over a decade ago. Minus One was another alternative rock band, and we were around for a bit until COVID hit, and that just killed it. We just decided recently to form a new band, and here we are. Robby : I’ve known Justin since elementary school. He and I have been in and out of bands since we were kids, and Nick and I have another project we’ve been working on that we can’t find members for currently. It’s a progressive rock project. Not the stuff you generally hear around Baton Rouge. I picked up playing drums when I was about 11 years old, with no lessons. I started listening to Metallica as a kid and then begged my dad for a drum set. I love playing drums, and if you listen to my playing, you’ll hear a little Metallica influence—the triplets I do with my feet and stuff like that. It’s in there. I’ve always thought that the drums help bring energy to the songs. Justin : His style brings more potency to the music with a little punk influence. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What got you each into music originally? Justin : I saw Nirvana’s “Live and Loud,” and when they were playing “Endless Nameless” and just messing around and throwing stuff everywhere, I was like, “I can do that!”. That’s really where it started for me. Robby : For me, it was when I sat down behind my first drum kit. My crappy drum kit. (laughter) MaM : Well, you gotta start somewhere! Justin : My mom had this little acoustic guitar, and I asked her if I could start playing it, but she didn’t think I would stick with it. I started tuning it and messing with it, though, and she would get mad at me. Nick : For me, I loved music from the get-go. My dad would throw on Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” album in the car, and he had a good bit of Whitney Houston, too, but for me, the way loud music resonates with you. Your whole body shakes with the music, and I always wanted to be a part of that. When I was 14 years old, my mom bought me my first guitar, and it was a no-name replica type of guitar. Some knock-off 6-string thing. I’m mainly a guitar player, though. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : So bass is new for you? Nick : Well, yes and no. I can pick up a bass in a pinch. I listen to a lot of music that has intricate arrangements, and I like to think of a song in its totality—just everything in it. Everything has its part to play in making a cohesive sound. One band, one sound. MaM : So, who are your biggest influences as far as the sound of this band? Justin : I like Hum and Dinosaur Jr. Sometimes it’s upbeat, and sometimes it has that noisiness to it. They don’t try to make their music all posh or anything. Nick : As far as influences for my bass playing, I like a lot of heavier bands. Dan Briggs from Between the Buried and Me is one of the best bass players on the planet, in my opinion, but he has a way of carrying the low end that is different from just sitting and playing your scales up and down, and I try to emulate that with what we do, but in a more simplified way because I’m not nearly as shreddy as that guy. Robby : As for me, I have a hard time finding a band to compare us to. I would say that I take my influence from Rise Against mixed with a little Metallica. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Where was the EP recorded? Nick : My house MaM : So, what was the creative process like for writing and recording it? How did you get the songs that you decided to put on the EP? Nick : We had those songs ready already, so we spent a week tracking drums, half a week tracking the rest of it, and another week mixing it down. We got it done quickly. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What is your mission statement as a band? What do you hope to accomplish in the future? Justin : We want to stay creative, and we hope that people like what we are putting out. Nick : At the end of the day, we just want to rock people’s faces off and have a blast doing it. As Jean Claude Seagal continues to forge ahead in getting their music out to the masses, they no doubt will find those who resonate with their unpolished and bona fide sound. To hear their new EP, “State Champs,” just hit one of the links below, and then be sure to follow them on social media to stay up-to-date on all upcoming shows. Facebook : Facebook Instagram : Jean Claude Seagal (@jeanclaude_seagal) • Instagram photos and videos Apple Music : Jean Claude Segal, Apple Music Spotify : State Champs EP by Jean Claude Seagal | Spotify *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? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Joe Burns has an innate ability to make you laugh out loud in this non-stop ride of hilarity. < Back The Book Nook: We'll Try and Get That on For You Nicole Brice Mar 8, 2025 Share Joe Burns has an innate ability to make you laugh out loud in this non-stop ride of hilarity. I just finished reading a phenomenal book , so I felt inclined to share my thoughts with all of you so that you, too, can enjoy this honest and heartfelt narrative of the glory days of radio. We'll Try and Get That on For You is the latest from author Joe Burns. Burns has published books on web design and other creative endeavors in the past, but this is his first book of this nature, which I call an autobiographical comedy fiction satire masterpiece . No seriously. This book is a " Sandlot " narrative with " Anchorman " antics. I could see it being made into a hilarious screenplay. Click to buy Reading this book was personal because Joe Burns was one of the many phenomenal professors who taught me when I attended Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana . Some of my fondest memories of college include his classes. He taught me so much, and now, after reading this book, I realize why he was so knowledgeable. If you talk with Joe in person, he is just a shy, goofy, and loveable human who is too smart for his own good. Did you know that he once took the Mensa test? More about that can be found in our interview with him on our website. As I write about him, it's difficult for me to type just his name without the "Dr." attached to it. Behind the scenes shot from our photoshoot with Joe Burns back in 2023. Trying on his guitar. Notice I'm sporting the KSLU shirt. Forever proud to have worked there. We'll Try and Get That on For You is a story told through the eyes of the 'intern,' aka Joe Burns . With tales of morning show DJs running for governor, procuring votes with promises of Taco Tuesday becoming mandatory, to vivid details of characters, this book is a riot of entertainment. It's funny, it's entertaining, and it never lets up . Radio contests and shenanigans abound, even going as far as stealing the thunder from another local station promoting a concert by the Beach Boys . With his innate storytelling ability, Joe Burns brings these events to life with such detail that you find yourself laughing out loud. The book is filled with unexpected humor, from an electrocution to a death threat, and even getting told off by multiple clowns. Yes, clowns . Reading Joe’s retelling of the events of 9/11 unfolding while he helped facilitate local coverage on my former college radio station, 90.9 FM KSLU , now known as 90.9 The Lion , felt personal because I was a student at Southeastern at the time. I will never forget how I stayed home from classes that day because I was just exhausted. I love that the university utilized his radio experience and expertise on this day because if you’ve ever heard him speak, he truly does have a gift for radio. When Joe gets to the part of the book about his later career outside of the station that shaped him, he recounts the ending of radio with personality and the beginning of formulaic conformity in radio. It’s a bittersweet ending as he sums it all up and updates the later years of the cast of characters once they had moved on from the beloved Z-107. There are many other surprises, so I will not spoil them for you, but do yourself a favor and immerse yourself in this vivid and entertaining narrative. It’s fun. Buy here: We'll Try and Get That on for You: My Life in Personality Radio: Burns, Joe: 9798892110600: Amazon.com : Books *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 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

Indie authors and writers you should check out NOW! The Book Nook Mar 12, 2025 Book Review: Playboys, Celebrities, and Me by Dianne Dorman It’s intriguing, it’s glamorous, and it’s full of nostalgia. Read More Mar 8, 2025 The Book Nook: We'll Try and Get That on For You Joe Burns has an innate ability to make you laugh out loud in this non-stop ride of hilarity. Read More Oct 25, 2024 Book Review: Brothers by Alex Van Halen Brothers is a Compelling Story about Rock Royalty Read More Mar 25, 2024 Everything’s Poetic: David Donihue The Enigma of Depression Through a Rose-colored Lens Read More Dec 13, 2023 Blood Machines: Book Review “Blood Machines is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes and cliches, using the creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state. Read More Nov 14, 2023 Lowdown Road: Book Review Scott Von Doviak's newest book Lowdown Road mixes hick cinema, blaxploitation, and 70's cinematic archetypes into one hell of a crime-thrilling story. Read More Sep 20, 2023 Sidetracks Music Hall by Bud Gambrell: Book Review Bud Gambrell has compiled a journey through music in “Sidetracks Music Hall”—a memoir rich with local history Read More Jan 9, 2023 Tyler Harrison An Undercover Talent on the Rise Read More Dec 5, 2022 Ezekiel Kincaid The Pastor of Horror Read More

Some Spooky Season Picks < Back Nick's Corner: Playlist Picks for October Nick Cline Oct 4, 2024 Share Some Spooky Season Picks It’s that time again! This is a bit late because I have been slammed by life lately. I am back and ready to bring your newest slew of music for your listening pleasures. We will dive into various picks that hit you from every angle. All your sonic pleasures will be handled by this month's picks, ranging from local bands across the country to more recognized bands from across rock history. Let's get into October's picks of the month! 1 Honey Bucket by The Melvins Click to listen Deets about the track : First up on the chopping block are Grunge precursors and legends, The Melvins . The track we will be talking about today is ' Honey Bucket .' This dropped-tuning grunge masterpiece has the tone Buzz Osborne (frontman of The Melvins) described as a “car wreck.” Honey Bucket offers high-octane energy in a condensed 3-minute package. All around, this track will wake you up, prepare you for your day, and, let's be honest, that intro will be stuck in your head for the remainder of the week. 2 Semblance of Me by Seether Click to listen Deets about the track : Next up is a track that was recently released on Seether 's latest album, The Surface Seems So Far . The track, ‘ Semblance of Me ,’ makes a new but familiar sound for Seether. It hits you right in the ear as soon as the music starts. The heavily distorted and haunting slowness of the riffs and the angst-driven lyrics and melodies make you dig straight into the sound. As the track progresses, the song's energy pushes increasingly into darkness until it cracks, and the screaming of pain hits with the bridge/breakdown. This track would make an excellent addition for anyone looking for new music filled with relatable energy, new music in general, and just about anything else. 3 Angels Turn Away by Sinz of Eden Click to listen Deets about the track : This next track is from a band that I found while on tour for my band, Phantum Sun . We traveled to Charleston, WV, and played with a band called Sinz of Eden . They are a new take on hard rock and metal but sound deeply familiar. Their track, ‘ Angels Turn Away ,’ is a hard-hitting reminder of a fuse of metalcore and 80s rock. It's an off-the-wall fusion of music, but it has the sensibilities of Avenged Sevenfold style riffs, metalcore drums, melodies of 80s vocalists, and the rounding off powerful bass lines that compliment everything. They are a deep-cut band from WV and surely deserve some spotlight. They have a killer presence live, and their tracks bring that same energy to your playlists at home. 4 This Guilt by Inner Anguish Click to listen Deets about the track : We have two more picks for this entry, and for this one, I would like to recommend a killer local band from Louisiana. Inner Anguish is a complete masterclass on high energy, classic metal production, riffs, melodies, screams, and a rhythm section that beats you to a pulp live and at home. Across the board, their track, ‘ This Guilt ,’ offers a hybrid mix of metalcore and a sense of nu-metal undertones. There is tension between nu-metal mixed with vibes and music from Avenged Sevenfold 's album, Walking the Fallen . Overall, Inner Anguish and their track should be checked out live and through your listening pleasures. 5 Comfortably Numb (cover) by The Main Squeeze Click to listen Deets about the track : This next one is a massive curveball to the line-up of picks I have for you, but this track is from a criminally underrated national band called The Main Squeeze . They have a cover project called the Squeeze House . They cover many tunes they convert into their style and jam over in ballad formats. The cover I am recommending today is their cover of Pink Floyd 's classic, ' Comfortably Numb .' This cover takes hold of itself as an impressive showing of love for the original and their talent as a group. The song is straightforward throughout the whole song, but the music and the band shine when the iconic solo from David Gilmour starts. It raises in energy until the breaking moment of the solo starts, then that starts a five or six-minute jam of the original solo, as well as added parts that heavily compliment the original. If you are a fan of Pink Floyd, then you will love this take on their classic track. 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

A Classic Sound and Vibe < Back They Bring the Party: Von Mons Nicole Brice Mar 21, 2023 Share A Classic Sound and Vibe Sometimes, my music tastes can be a bit different than the norm, and I like to reminisce on the good ole days with some nostalgic sounding rock ‘n’ roll, so it’s quite fitting that I would stumble upon this next band, which I’ll now introduce to you. Von Mons are a four-piece band hailing from New Jersey , whose sound exemplifies what a party in the 60s should sound like . The guitars have a surf vibe to them, and the vocals are distorted just enough to sound like an old-school 45 that has been played one too many times. For a truly throwback listening experience, Von Mons music is best enjoyed loud, and if you happen to be near a beach, even better! Pull out that beach blanket, put the boombox down, and crank it up! Photo provided by band I genuinely wish I could pinpoint their sound and compare it, but I just can’t. Sure, there are hints here and there of Tom Petty , The Cramps , The Kinks , The Troggs , and even a little Herman’s Hermits , but when you really try to categorize or even compare them, you just can’t. These guys are unique and refreshing. Their sound is one that is missing these days amongst the clutter that has become rock music. One could even say their music would be the perfect soundtrack to a Quentin Tarantino movie. In the end, though, they are truly just a funky mash-up of underground pop. So, who, exactly, are Von Mons ? credit: Jeff Crespi Well, in a nutshell, they are Cory Williams (vocals, guitar), Tyler Kolling (drums, vocals), Brian Manser (lead guitar), and Casey Estelle (bass, vocals). Releases include Von Mons (2017) and Von Mons 2 (2020). All music can be found via the various streaming platforms and on YouTube . These guys are so much fun, they’ll make your head spin. I reached out to the band recently to gain a little more insight into what makes them so distinctive and was able to connect with Tyler Kolling , the drummer. Here’s what he had to say. MaM : What year did the band form and what inspired the formation? Give me a little band history if you don’t mind. TK : The band originally formed back in 2012. Sleepy (Cory) and I (Ty) were working at a bar in Asbury Park . We had a lot in common and bonded over our similar interests in music. We would always talk about playing together. We both didn’t really know what we were doing—still don’t, really—but [we] both had an interest in writing and performing music. Sleepy knew another dude named Sean that was really good at playing guitar. I guess you could say this was the first line up of the band: Sleepy on keys and rhythm guitar, me on drums, and Sean on lead. All of us singing. We played like that for a while, mainly in Sean ’s garage or at Ty ’s mom’s house. After a bit, we started taking it more seriously. We added Casey on bass and started playing gigs. Those early days were pretty wild and sloppy. Still are but just differently. Over the years we have had a couple line-up changes. Ty took a break for a bit and Sean moved to Atlanta . Shawna Grabowski from Late Waves filled in on drums for a bit. She rips. Corey Frank filled in on lead guitar for a bit—also a ripper. Ty came back and we added Brian on guitar full time. That’s really where we are at now. Cory “Sleepy” Williams on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Ty Kolling on drums and backing vocals, Casey Estelle on bass and backing vocals, and Brian Manser on lead guitar. credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : How would you describe your music influences for your sound? TK : All of us grew up in the area surrounding Asbury Park . There was this radio station 1410AM Golden Oldies that played all the platters that mattered from back in the day … all the blasts from the past. We all grew up listening to that station, so it would be impossible to deny that as an influence. Other influences are stuff that our parents and siblings played when we were growing up—everything from Elvis and Buddy Holly to the Grateful Dead to Crass and the Ramones . Also, growing up near the beach for sure adds a bit of a surfy vibe to anything we do. Obviously, the garage rock groups of the 60s are a huge influence as well. If you listen to the garage/punk compilations of ‘ Nuggets ,’ ‘ Pebbles ,’ or ‘ Back from the Grave ,’ you will hear a lot of stuff we rip off. MaM : Any new music being recorded currently? When can we expect a new album? TK : We recently just finished our latest record called “ Shakin’ with VON MONS .” We recorded it in Brian ’s basement with Brian at the controls and the kids running around. It’s going to be released within the next couple of months. We are just working out a record release party and some last-minute art stuff. Follow our Instagram @vonmons for more info . We are really proud of this record. As we have said before, we are still on this adventure of figuring out how to make music. We feel like we are really starting to crack the code with this one. It’s a lot of fun. Not to say that the first two records weren’t, [but] we are just figuring out and refining our voice a bit more. Fourth record will follow shortly after this one. Recording for that starts soon. credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Take us through the creative process. How do you come up with songs? TK : We usually write music by bringing an idea to band practice. That idea could be as simple as a song title or a progression or a little lick of a song, OR that idea could be a fully realized song. That idea could be somewhere in between those examples. Whatevers. Anyways, the idea gets brought to the group and we all flesh it out and put our input into it. Then we learn it and mess it up when we play it out live. It’s a blast. We all submit ideas, but I would say the majority of them come from Sleepy . He’s a hit-making machine. MaM : What music or things around you are inspiring you to create these days? TK : Anything and everything. We hear, see, feel, or experience something and try to boil it down to a simple 2:30-long bopper. Hope our fun comes through to the listener. That’s our biggest challenge when recording—capturing our fun feeling. We really want the listener to experience that above all. credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Have there been any notable shows you have played and why? TK : Oh man. There’s been a bunch of great shows over the years. We love playing local gigs with friend bands. There’s also been some “bigger” gigs with touring bands that have been memorable and a lot of fun. Out of town shows with Todd-O-Phonic are always a blast. We are really just grateful that people wanna hear what we make. We have a lot of fun playing. Without people coming out to see our shows, that wouldn’t be possible. The best shows are really the ones where the crowd is engaged and there is that give and take between us and the crowd. We really dig it. We are just really appreciative for those early gigs, cuz [sic] we stunk, but people kept coming out and having a good time. That meant we kept getting more shows. We got better. Not much better, but hey, we couldn’t get much worse! credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : Love your “fuzz” sound with the guitar! What brand of instrument is used? Also, too, what pedals do you use to achieve your sound? TK : Sleepy plays a Fender Mustang with some simple Overdrive pedals and lets it rip. Brian is getting this custom handmade guitar made by his brother-in-law and Petillo guitars ; it’s a total frankenfreak of everything awesome. His pedals are always moving around and switching in and out. He usually centers them around a simple Overdrive pedal as well, though … cranks it and lets it rip. credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : With all you currently have going on, what are your aspirations for the future? TK : We always joke around that being a true garage rock act means that we play music for a while, make a bunch of recordings, and then disappear, only to have our music rediscovered 40 or 50 years later and re-released, prompting us to go on tour in our mid-sixties and totally blow minds. More realistically though? We will just continue to have fun and make music we think is cool. Hopefully the crowds dig it and nice people like you keep taking interest in us. To experience all this is Von Mons, hit one of the links below! VON MONS (@vonmons) • Instagram photos and videos Stream Von Mons music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloud Von Mons | Facebook Von Mons Von Mons | Spotify ‎Von Mons on Apple Music Von Mons on TIDAL VON MONS - Lyrics, Playlists & Videos | Shazam Von Mons - YouTube Thank you to Jeff Crespi for the photos! 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 Got something you’d like us to listen to? Hit us up! Send an email to the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Here are some of the hottest titles streaming on your favorite platforms this month! < Back Streaming in September Keeley Brooks Sep 11, 2023 Share Here are some of the hottest titles streaming on your favorite platforms this month! It’s a little late, yes, I know, but better late than never, right? In case you're wondering what the biggest titles streaming this month are, I've got you covered. We get a little horror, just in time for Fall, a little fantasy, a little action, and some drama. Here's a roundup of the hottest streaming titles releasing this month on some of your favorite platforms. AMERICAN HORROR STORY: DELICATE Sept. 21 on Hulu Let me be the first to confirm the rumors: Yes, Kim Kardashian co-stars in a dramatic role alongside AHS regular Emma Roberts ( We’re the Millers ) and franchise newcomer Cara Delevingne ( Suicide Squad ). For the first time, an AHS season is based on a novel—“ Delicate Condition ” by Danielle Valentine. The longest running hour-long series in FX history, American Horror Story: Delicate follows a gripping thriller about an actress, played by Roberts, who becomes convinced that a sinister figure is going to great lengths to make sure her pregnancy never happens. “Delicate Condition” has been called a feminist update to " Rosemary’s Baby ", which shocked and horrified audiences when it hit bookshelves in 1967, then the big screen in 1968. Kardashian reportedly has a “fun, stylish, and ultimately terrifying role” in what the season’s sole writer and showrunner Halley Feiffer calls “ambitious and unlike anything we have ever done.” American Horror Story: Delicate will first air on FX, then stream the next day on Hulu. While part one releases this month, there’s no word yet on when part two will premiere. Am I the only one who hates when networks do that crap? AHS spinoff American Horror Stories will also return with a four-episode Halloween event on Oct. 26 on Hulu. American Horror Story: Delicate premieres Sept. 21 on Hulu. GEN V Sept. 29 on Prime Video To answer your question, yes—this is the spin-off series of the crude hit Prime Video production The Boys . Gen V is already off to a strong start, in my opinion, with star Lizzie Broadway ’s announcement that, “It’s gonna be a rollercoaster. It’s gonna be filled with blood, guts, and everything else.” Continuing in the dark and twisted world of The Boys , Gen V takes us to Godolkin University, America’s only elite college exclusively for superheroes. The irreverent series explores the lives of hormonal, competitive “Supes” as they put their physical, sexual, and moral boundaries to the test. Hailed in the media as part college show and part Hunger Games , Gen V looks to have all the heart, satire, and raunch of The Boys . It's college life with a super-powered twist and all the vicious competition we’ve come to know and love. As students navigate academics and popularity, they soon realize their campus hides a darker agenda. Gen V looks to be every bit as gritty as The Boys —possibly even worse in some respects. But hey, at least there's no Homelander here to make our stomachs turn, right? ONE PIECE Streaming on Netflix In what is being called “the best Netflix adaptation of any anime/comic series” by several reviewers on IMDb , One Piece is a fantasy adventure TV series that’s a live-action adaptation of the ongoing 1997 Japanese manga series. Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew explore a fantastical world of endless oceans and exotic islands in search of the world’s ultimate treasure to become the next Pirate King. I’ll admit, I don’t know squat about anime or manga, so I can’t tell you anything other than what’s already out there about the show: It involves mythic treasure, powerful pirates, and a legendary crew, and the consensus is it’s magnificent. And from the looks of the trailer, I believe it. One Piece definitely found its way into my queue. In case you’re wondering, no—you do not need to know any backstory or history to enjoy Netflix’s live-action adaptation. One Piece is currently streaming on Netflix. POWER BOOK IV: FORCE, Season 2 Sept. 1 on Starz Ole Tommy Egan ( Joseph Sikora , of Ozark ) just can’t keep himself out of trouble, and with the return of Season 2, his sights are set on taking over the streets of Chicago, looking to avenge his sidekick Lilliana (Audrey Esparza, of Blindspot ), but first, he will have to contend with various crime syndicates like the Serbians, the Flynns, CBI and Miguel Garcia, a hardcore drug boss we haven’t met yet. Season 1 introduced Tommy to his newfound blood family and put him in a complicated position where he’s forced to make some difficult decisions. Will he make those tough decision or resort to the familiar? Power Book IV: Force is currently airing on Starz. THE CHANGELING, Season 1 Sept. 8 on Apple TV Plus Um, whoah. The first three episodes of Apple TV’s new fairy tale-horror series The Changeling , which dropped Sept. 8, were excellent. They methodically sucked viewers right into their mystery, focused on one man’s encounters with strange new realities as he slowly loses his sanity on a nightmarish journey to find his missing wife. While Apollo (LaKeith Stanfield, of Atlanta ) and Emma (Clark Backo, of Letterkenny ) started out grounded and deeply in love, everything changed after the birth of their first child … Emma changed. Yes, post-partum depression is there, but something else is festering, too, and we aren’t sure what it is. I won’t be a jerk and tell you what happens, but I will go so far as to say Emma mysteriously vanishes not long after giving birth, first mentally, then emotionally, then physically into thin after doing some crazy shit and committing a horrific act. The Changeling is based on a 2017 fantasy horror novel of the same name by American author Victor LaValle . Noting the horror novel’s significant contribution to the genre, American contemporary horror author John Langan said of The Changeling that while yes, it’s a fairy tale, it isn’t the traditional “sanitized and moralistic” take: “[It] flips the script of so many narratives of the fantastic and draws instead on Scandinavian folklore.” THE CONTINENTAL: FROM THE WORLD OF JOHN WICK Sept. 22 on Peacock In the world of John Wick where there exists a layered society of crime lords with a strict hierarchy, The Continental is an exclusive chain of hotels around the world that serves as a neutral ground for members of the assassin underworld. The three-part event series explores the origins behind The Continental through the eyes of a young Winston Scott, who was played by the iconic Ian McShane ( American Gods ) in the John Wick films but is played by Colin Woodell ( The Flight Attendant ) in the TV series. As we follow debonair hotel proprietor Winston Scott's rise to power, The Continental: From the World of John Wick dives deep into the hellscape of 1970s New York City and into Winston’s murky past to reveal how he ascended to one of the High Table’s most trusted key positions. In addition to Woodell, The Continental: From the World of John Wick also stars Mel Gibson ( Braveheart ), Ray McKinnon ( Sons of Anarchy ), Ben Robson ( Animal Kingdom TV series), and Mishel Prada ( Riverdale ). Three 90-minute episodes air weekly starting Sept. 22 with a finale airing Oct. 6. Will it be worthy of the John Wick universe? We shall see. THE MORNING SHOW, Season 3 Sept. 13 on Apple TV Plus In what has turned out to be a really good, dramatic Apple TV series, The Morning Show shines a blinding light on what it’s like in the workplace of an early morning network TV station … okay, probably any news station. While it appears to be exciting and salacious, it also seems like it sucks (no pun intended) in some pretty big ways. Also, we all owe a huge thank you to the people who make early morning television happen, especially the women. So, in the first season of The Morning Show , top morning news anchors Alexandra “Alex” Levy (Jennifer Aniston, of Friends ) and Mitch Kessler (Steve Carell, of The 40-Year-Old Virgin ) see their on-screen “marriage” unravel when he is accused of sexual misconduct in the workplace and forced off the show. As Alex denies knowing what Mitch has been doing and fights to retain her job, she’s paired with a mouthy, impulsive field reporter plucked from obscurity, Bradley Jackson (Reese Witherspoon, of Legally Blonde ), whose hasty decisions on air invite some trouble for the network. Ultimately, some shocking stuff happens, and Alex leaves the show. Season 2 sees the network CEO (Billy Crudup, of Hello Tomorrow! ) attempt to convince Alex to return to The Morning Show just as the COVID-19 panic sweeps the country … and the show itself. We also follow Bradley through her identity crisis. Season 3 promises to be much juicier and sexier, picking up two years later, in March 2022, with Jon Hamm ( Mad Men ) showing up as an Elon Musk-type entrepreneur with a lot of capital to spare, which has Crudup’s character salivating. Really, if you haven’t watched it yet, you should tune in. The Morning Show 's Season 3 airs Sept. 13 on Apple TV Plus. THE OTHER BLACK GIRL Sept. 13 on Hulu This series has some serious Get Out (2017) vibes around it, and I couldn't be more anxious to check it out. Based on the electric debut novel by Zakiya Dalila Harris , The Other Black Girl follows Nella Rogers (Sinclair Daniel, of Insidious: The Red Door ) as the only Black person working at an all-White New York-based publishing company, Wagner Books. When another Black woman, Hazel-May McCall (Ashleigh Murray, of Riverdale ), is hired as an editorial assistant, Nella is excited to have a new friend but soon finds herself sidelined as Hazel is elevated to office darling, leaving Nella in the dust. When Nella soon starts receiving anonymous notes ordering her to leave the company, she begins to suspect that Hazel isn’t exactly what she seems, and thus begins the search for answers to questions concerning both Hazel’s and Wagner Books’ dark pasts. The Other Black Girl debuts Sept. 13 on Hulu. THE WHEEL OF TIME Sept. 1 on Prime Video The epic saga The Wheel of Time , based on Robert Jordan ’s fantasy series of the same name, returns for Season 2, which is reportedly based on Jordan’s second and third books of the series, “ The Great Hunt ” (1990) and “ The Dragon Reborn ” (1991). As the world is falling apart, our Wheel of Time heroes find themselves divided. Rand al'Thor (Josha Stradowski, of High Flyers ) thought he'd vanquished the Dark One, but evil persists and new threats emerge. As young heroes from the Two Rivers find themselves scattered across the world, they're left without their original guide and must look elsewhere for strength. Egwene (Madeleine Madden, of Picnic at Hanging Rock ) is now a novice hoping to work her way up from a lowly servant to Aes Sedai. As the Wheel turns toward the Last Battle, the stakes grow higher, forcing Rand and his friends to confront what's ahead. Good news: Amazon has already said Season 3 is in the works. The Wheel of Time 's Season 2 is currently streaming on Prime Video, with new episodes releasing on Fridays. THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR Sept. 27 on Netflix From acclaimed filmmaker Wes Anderson ( Asteroid City ) comes a quirky adaptation of Roald Dahl ’s beloved story about a rich man who learns about a guru who can see without using his eyes. He then sets out to master this extraordinary skill to cheat at gambling. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch ( Doctor Strange ) as Henry Sugar and Ralph Fiennes ( Harry Potter franchise) as Roald Dahl, the short film chronicles a variety of stories but will focus mainly on Henry Sugar, who is able to see through objects and predict the future with the help of a book he stole. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar looks to be adventurous and fantastical, also starring Ben Kingsley ( Sexy Beast ), Richard Ayoade ( The Mandalorian series), and Dev Patel ( Slumdog Millionaire ). The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar releases in select theaters on September 20, then globally on Netflix September 27. Other Netflix titles streaming in September: Love Is Blind: After the Altar (Sept. 1), Disenchantment , the final season (Sept. 1), Scout’s Honor: The Secret Files of the Boy Scouts of America (Sept. 6), Top Boy , Season 3 (Sept. 7), Virgin River , Season 5 (Sept. 7), Selling the OC , Season 2 (Sept. 8), Wrestlers (Sept. 13), Love Is Blind , Season 5 (Sept. 22), Sex Education , the final season (Sept. 21), Spy Kids: Armageddon (Sept. 22), Castlevania: Nocturne (Sept. 28). WINNING TIME: THE RISE OF THE LAKERS DYNASTY HBO and HBO Max While HBO and HBO Max are adding a stack of AMC Plus titles to their service this month— Killing Eve, Fear the Walking Dead, Interview with the Vampire (Season 1), and A Discovery of Witches —it is slim pickins as far as new releases. However, if you’re looking for something newish to binge, Season 2 of HBO’s bio-drama series Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is currently airing, features some stellar acting mixed with sex, drama, and basketball, and is definitely worth a watch. The series stars John C. Reilly ( Step Brothers ) as team owner Jerry Buss, Adrien Brody ( Succession ) as Pat Riley, Jason Clarke ( Oppenheimer ) as Jerry West, and Jason Segel ( Forgetting Sarah Marshall ) as Coach Paul Westhead. All of these guys do phenomenal jobs and mad props are given to the actors portraying the stars—namely newcomers Quincy Isaiah ( A Black Lady Sketch Show ) as Magic Johnson and Solomon Hughes, a total newbie to the scene, who plays Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Season 2 of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty is currently airing on HBO and HBO Max. Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with 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

Looking for something to do? Look no further! southern happenings Aug 13, 2024 Southern Happenings: Rad Fest 2024 Louisiana's Radfest is back for its third installment in September. Read More Jun 7, 2024 Southern Happenings: Meet The Gosh Darn Dangs The Gosh Darn Dangs bring the Hammond community together with their soulful tunes. Read More Apr 24, 2024 Southern Happenings: Kriss Russ, JAYD3D!, and Coma Nights at the Howlin Wolf New Orleans, LA April 20, 2024 Read More Mar 29, 2024 Eclipse Fest: A Convergence of Creativity Eclipse Fest will take place on June 15, 2024, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Read More Jan 30, 2024 Eric Johanson: A Distinctive Blues Musician with an Intoxicating Sound NOLA blues musician Eric Johanson takes his distinctive, intoxicating sound on the road, kicking off his “Don’t Hold Back” tour in North Alabama. Read More Jan 25, 2024 Chill Fest 2024 Music and Arts Festival 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. Read More Oct 27, 2023 Originally Huntsville: Monthly Music Event Originally Huntsville celebrates live music by showcasing local North Alabama talent in a monthly music concert series with a benevolent cause. Read More Oct 24, 2023 Throttle Fest 2023: Southern Happenings Huntsville’s Throttle Fest 2023 is a small version of a music festival, but it’s more like a family reunion with live music. Read More Jul 11, 2023 RAD Fest: A Lafayette Festival for Those Who Rock Get ready to rock around Downtown Lafayette on August 19, 2023 Read More May 18, 2023 Festival of Litha Returns to Downtown Florence in June Coming together to celebrate the summer solstice Read More May 8, 2023 Asheville Keeps it Weird with the Return of ABSFest Leave your inhibitions at the door Read More Feb 25, 2023 Punk Music Festival to Benefit Local Non-Profits that Work with At-Risk Youth and Children of Child Abuse/Neglect P.A.C.A. Read More

The Jim Parker Songwriter Series is a monthly event at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama. < Back Off the Charts: Jim Parker’s Songwriter Series Bud Gambrell May 13, 2024 Share The Jim Parker Songwriter Series is a monthly event at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama. Hello all! Welcome back to Off The Charts! The Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL, hosts a monthly music event called Jim Parker’s Songwriter Series . Jim Parker, a Huntsville favorite, hosts this exclusive event. May’s edition of the Songwriter Series saw the event moving from its usual location of the VBC Playhouse to Mars Music Hall, also located in the VBC. I saw this as a unique opportunity to introduce you, the reader, to this intimate listening room-type event and maybe a couple of songwriters you may not be familiar with. For those unfamiliar with Jim Parker , Jim came to the North Alabama area from Nashville, Tennessee, and has been a songwriter for over 50 years. Having co-written songs with many award-winning artists, Jim's journey is the heart of the Songwriter Series. He began the Series in 1985, showcasing hit songwriters from Nashville, Muscle Shoals, Atlanta, Canada, and other surrounding areas. My journey with Jim Parker began in 1985 while working at a local television station. Jim would often drop by for interviews to promote the Songwriter Series. Over the years, our paths have crossed numerous times, and I have even had the honor of photographing the series on two occasions. This personal connection has allowed me to understand the event and its significance better. Before this most recent May 10, 2024, showcase, I pulled Jim aside and got some insight into this entertaining event. Take a moment to read more below. OTC : Jim, tell me about the origins of the songwriter series. JP : Well, I came from Nashville. I moved to Nashville in 1975, played all the listening rooms there, and wrote songs with Jon Anderson and other fine songwriters. Then, after getting off the road with Dave and Sugar , I moved here because we were raising the family, and I wanted to get off the road. So, my wife got me into real estate in Nashville. I got my license in 1979. We started having babies, and she was out there selling real estate with the baby on her chest, and it wasn't working out too well. So, I just had to take over, thinking that was a trick. I think she tricked me. After being in Madison, AL, from 85 to 87, I was standing before my beautiful wife, weeping like a child because I was not fulfilled by what I was doing. It was a business. And it is emotional, but it's not that creative. I can write a creative contract, but that's not like writing a creative song. She said, well, take some time off. I took two months off and regurgitated everything that was built up, and I told her that I would start my songwriting career here in beautiful Alabama. Then I was playing at the Bluebird in Nashville, and it just happened that Steve Maples, who runs this complex, was there with his son-in-law, who was also a songwriter. And I mentioned I'm looking for a home in Madison, AL. He approached me and said you ought to come and check me out. Let's talk about bringing it to the Von Braun Center. It took me a few days to get around to it because every day you take off from real estate, you're behind two or three days. So, I caught up with him, and he said, bring it here. That was 19 years ago, and we're still doing it. And we're very pleased with what's happening. I have some of the most exceptional songwriters in the world and some of the best songs you could ever hear on the radio. They're just too good! Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Why do you do it? JP : Well, it's a genetic disorder, and it's terminal. Creativity is a weird thing. You do it because you cannot keep from doing it, and it's a constant conflict because you may be having a conversation, and somebody says something, and you want to write it down, so you have to excuse yourself. I had a furniture guy who was trying to sell me a sofa. I said, “Man, that's expensive. You wouldn't cheat me, would you?” He said “No, man, I'll cheat you right.” I say, “Excuse me a minute.” I had to go write that down. So that's kind of how it happens. And I do it because the only cure for this disease is more of it. I can't visualize my life without music. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : What are you trying to accomplish? JP : I've already accomplished everything. I've recorded with an orchestra, I've got a song cut by Mark O'Connor, who's brilliant, and I have a bunch of cuts by Billy Droze. We're doing a country record for him now, and I can't tell you who's producing it, but it's a big producer. I've accomplished everything and written hundreds and hundreds of great songs, which've been cut by many great people. John Anderson cut Chicken Truck in 1980. I’ve been writing to him, and we wrote to him about two months ago. So, it's just a process. I must keep doing it. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Tell me about tonight. JP : We're here at the Mars Music Hall. I've got Brent Moyer, Tim Styles, and Bob Tobin. I met them down at the Frank Brown International Songwriter Festival. I've been doing that for about 15 years, and I just picked the guys I like to sit with who write good songs and tell good stories. In addition to chatting with Jim Parker, I was able to chat with one of the performers of the showase, Tim Styles , too. Check out our conversation below. OTC : Tell me a little bit about who Tim Styles is. TS : Well, I'm a singer-songwriter from New Mexico, but I've lived all over the country. The first time I went to Nashville, I was 14 years old, and so I've been running the roads ever since. I never did grow up. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : What does something like this, a singer-songwriter series, mean to you? TS : It means to me that people want to listen. I've spent so much of my time fighting crowds at bars. They don't want to listen, which is OK too. I know everyone wants to have a good time. But when songwriting is really my passion and when people are willing to sit and listen to stories, I get to delve into that part of myself. That's nice. It's the other side of being just an entertainer. You can be a storyteller. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : So, you consider yourself a modern-day troubadour. For someone who doesn't know what that means, tell me what you consider a modern-day Troubadour. TS : I'm a performing songwriter, another way to say it. I don't just write songs and sing. I like to perform my original music—like a Kristofferson kind of thing, you know. I can also perform my own music and put my own spin on it. OTC : So, you mentioned Kris Kristofferson . I'm assuming he's an influence on you. What are some of your other influences? TS : All the great singer-songwriters like Townes Van Zandt , Guy Clark , and even rock guys like Warren Zevon have been a huge influence on me. Just all the music you pick up along the way, but I always find myself returning to the singer-songwriters. To make the night special for the songwriters, Jim had local artist Don Howard design a caricature of each performer. The caricature of future performers may be produced and sold at shows. Credit: Bud Gambrell OTC : Jim, can you give me a sneak peek into future series? JP : Yeah, I'm doing a Trop rock show on August the 2nd, bringing in Bill Whyte , Darrell Clanton , and Brooke Graham . She's #4 on the Texas Rock Charts, so it's always great people. And in November, Billy Droze and Kentucky Blue will be here with me with his bluegrass band. He'll take the whole stage. OTC : Any other plans in the future for the songwriter series? JP : Sure, 2025, man! I'm working on it now. Yeah, we have dates. Y'all come and see us. You will not be disappointed, and it's a cheap date. Credit: Bud Gambrell If you enjoy the listening room-type experience where you hear the stories behind the songs, I highly recommend you stop by for any future Jim Parker’s Songwriter Series. Like Jim said, you will not be disappointed. Send me an email. Let me know what you think. Also, tell me about any performers you would like to see in future editions. Until next time, Keep your diamond down in the groove! Jim Parker Music Brent Moyer : https://brent-moyer.com/ Tim Styles : https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tim-styles/267070949 Bob Tobin : www.bobtobinmusic.com To reach Bud: Email : the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com Bud's sites : bgambrellphotography.com Bud Gambrell Photography Bud Gambrell Photography is a locally owned and operated photography business in North Alabama. Call or email us today for an appointment. www.facebook.com Log in or sign up to view See posts, photos and more on Facebook. Amazon: https://a.co/d/1CLA9Tz Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The music of XEMNAS is a transcendent journey through sound. < Back The Enigma of XEMNAS: Turning Pain into Art Nicole Brice Apr 11, 2024 Share The music of XEMNAS is a transcendent journey through sound. From Elizabeth, New Jersey, and currently residing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we bring you an up-and-coming talent who goes by the name of XEMNAS. At 26 years old, XEMNAS is a powerhouse when it comes to writing and producing his music. Taking his stage name from the video game “Kingdom Hearts,” XEMNAS is churning out music on his terms and making a name for himself in the underground music scene, with numerous collaborations already taking place. If I were to describe the music of XEMNAS, I would have to say it is hardcore with an artistic edge, and he has carved out a niche that defies categorization. Each track feels like a scene from an epic film, evoking a range of emotions and imagery and transporting you to an otherworldly realm. Credit: Facebook Having worked with Yung Oxzy , 4700RSIN , END HIM!, Kairo Kitana , Levi Zadoff , Butterfly, and AUDREYISAROSE , XEMNAS is currently working on more features from artists this year, including a feature with Frankie from Emmure . Recent releases include the tracks " Myhearthurts ," “ Idontwannadie ”, and “ Dear God ," which are available to stream on Apple Music now. “ Myhearthurts ” begins as a hauntingly beautiful guitar track and maintains the pace throughout with lyrics speaking of survival, love, and perseverance. It is a departure from some of XEMNAS’ other works but is perfect in its simplicity. “ Idontwannadie ” has a dance beat and sounds nothing like previous releases from XEMNAS. It’s more in vain with electronic body music, or EBM. I will say that with every release from XEMNAS, no two tracks sound the same, which I love. I never know what the sound experience will be like when I listen to a new track from XEMNAS. With a knack for throwing his entire heart, soul, and being into everything he creates XEMNAS’ passion shines and exemplifies perseverance in a market currently oversaturated with talent. Ethereal electronic soundscapes make up the brunt of XEMNAS’ music, with an enigmatic persona adding an extra layer of intrigue to the music. With all he has created and continues to create, one must ask, “Who is XEMNAS?”. With a penchant for anonymity, XEMNAS chooses to let his art speak for itself, allowing you to be fully immersed in the sonic universe that has been crafted. We had the opportunity to speak with the masterful and mysterious XEMNAS at length recently about anything and everything. He truly is a remarkable being with a larger-than-life presence. Take a moment to learn a little more below. MaM : Let’s just dive right in, shall we? “ Iwannacry! "—the inspiration behind the song? How did the concept all come together? By the way, I really dig this track. XEMNAS : “ Iwannacry! ” is a big letter to myself. I felt lost and forsaken and just wanted to give up until I started listening to some of my favorite old bands and fell in love with music all over again, then boom! I just started writing and haven’t stopped. I’ve been getting very personal with this music lately because I want to connect with more people through my art. MaM : How would you describe the music that you make? XEMNAS : That’s a tough question. I don’t like to put myself in a genre or box, but I lean more towards Midwest Emo and metalcore with a dab of post-hardcore. I just enjoy making art, truly. All kinds. Credit: Facebook MaM : Who do you draw inspiration from lyrically and vocally? XEMNAS : Lyrically, I pull inspiration from the darkest and hardest moments of my life, but I like to take the negative aspects and try to convert them into something more beautiful. Vocally, I pull inspiration from bands like Bring Me The Horizon, Pierce The Evil, Deftones, This Wildlife, Dice, and also from more modern artists like JuiceWrld, SoFaygo, SuicideBoys, XXXXTentacion, and Lil Peep. MaM : Who or what are your songs about? XEMNAS : My songs are the leftover and in-the-moment emotions from my pain down to my happiest moments. My songs are my deepest secrets, feelings, and fantasies. Sometimes it’s the anger or sadness from a situation where someone hurt you, or sometimes it’s words we never get to say to someone, but my music is my story. Photo provided by artist MaM : That’s incredible. I see you have the “Gemini” EP out, but do you have plans to record an album in the future? XEMNAS : The “Gemini” EP project helped me find the sound and direction for my music that I really wanted to be remembered for. It has been a journey. I have been working on two albums in secret, actually, and I’ll be posting more about that after I’m done touring for the next few months. MaM : Where did you record your material or music? XEMNAS : I’m not gonna lie, making music is very personal for me, and it’s hard to find an engineer who can truly see my vision, so I set up my studio and engineer myself. Much more of a reward when you put out a song with sweat and tears. Photo provided by artist MaM : Are you currently performing any live shows? Where have you played recently? XEMNAS : I’ve been doing a lot of shows recently. I played in Vegas with Nascar Aloe and in LA with Kxllkodi and Lil Tracy. More recently, though, I’ve been playing underground shows in South Florida, mainly because I just moved out here. I plan to start touring on April 14, so stay tuned! Credit: Facebook MaM : What are you currently working on creatively? XEMNAS : As of recently, I’ve been experimenting with styles as I’ve learned that I can train my voice to sound like whatever I want, but my favorite projects would be my alternative and acoustic art. These new projects allowed me to dive deeper into myself and show my fans a different side of me. I just released four new songs on all platforms: Dear God , Myhearthurts , and Hell Girl (my favorite). The plan is also to release a song every week until the tour starts. MaM: What are your aspirations for the future? XEMNAS : I’ve been doing a lot of underground shows and festivals and slowly being placed on bigger stages with bigger names. My next move is to play a huge festival like Rolling Loud and take my art overseas, but it would be even cooler if they brought back Warped Tour because I’ve always wanted to perform on a stage there. As XEMNAS continues pushing boundaries with music and mystery, one thing remains certain: this journey is far from over. With each new release, the listener is encouraged to explore the depths of imagination and embrace the unknown, reminding us that in the vast expanse of the musical universe, anything is possible. To experience the music of XEMNAS, just hit one of the links below and then go follow him on social media. Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kingoftheheartless Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/xemnas/1720084648 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

“Born in the Flames” by Branded for Exile is a non-stop ride of aggressive guitars, tight production, and loud ferocious metal sure to get your pulse going. < Back Branded for Exile: A Force in Louisiana Metal Nicole Brice Dec 11, 2023 Share “Born in the Flames” by Branded for Exile is a non-stop ride of aggressive guitars, tight production, and loud ferocious metal sure to get your pulse going. Louisiana metal has a unique vibe and sound unlike anything heard in other states. Hinting at darkness, the sound evokes visions of living in the humid swamp areas while also providing a gloomy backdrop for life. Louisiana metal is fierce, loud, and strong, but in a state oversaturated with metal bands, one band from Ascension Parish is standing out with their groove-metal style. Powerful metal outfit Branded for Exile has just released a new album, and metal fans, it’s intense. “ Born in the Flames ” features crushing riffs, melodic hooks, and powerful lyrics in a high-energy way, making for one hell of an enjoyable 37-minute listening experience. Click the album cover below to check it out! Released October 28, 2023 Branded for Exile hails from Prairieville, Louisiana, and is known for blending many styles, textures, and influences, ranging from Metallica to Killswitch Engage and everyone in between. Their music is best described as an amalgamation of aggression and emotion, resulting in a truly dynamic and cohesive sound enhanced by each member’s own set of skills: Shannon Guillot is the vocal magic; Scott Hood carries the bass; Blake Cage and Cody Derouen mix it up on guitar; and Zack Leblanc is the rhythm working the drums. Mixed Alternative had the chance to catch up with guitarist Cody Derouen and vocalist Shannon Guillot, where we chatted about their new album, the future direction of the band, influences, and much more. Take a moment to indulge in our chat, and then be sure to stream their new album on your favorite streaming service. “ Born in the Flames ” is a non-stop ride of aggressive guitars, tight production, and loud ferocious metal sure to get your pulse going. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today! Let’s dive right in with your new album, “ Born in the Flames ”. The mix sounds amazing. Tell us a little more about that. Cody : [ Jason Ogle ] recorded the bass, vocals, and the guitar, but the drums were done at OCD [Recording and Production] by Duane [Simoneaux]. MaM : Shannon, your vocals are on point. When I first listened to the song “ Silver Tongue ”, I thought about how your voice is very reminiscent of David Draiman from Disturbed because of the range of your screams. Have you gotten that comparison before? Shannon : When we first went in to record that song, to me, something was missing. It was our weakest song, so we changed some of the vocal parts to make them heavier, and it fit better. MaM : If Pantera and Disturbed had a band baby, it would be Branded for Exile. Do you agree? Shannon : Alright! Cody : I will take that! (laughter) MaM : See, this is the thing, your voice … it has hints of Phil Anselmo at times, too. Shannon : … and I am not surprised that you said that. Growing up, two of my idols were Sebastian Bach formerly of Skid Row and Phil Anselmo . There are some parts on the album that I call ‘Phil-isms’. I intentionally did it the way I felt Phil would do it. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : Your music is so high-energy and in-your-face, and your sound is so different. I feel you guys stand out here locally because of it. “ Numbered Days ” is just a badass song. Tell us a little more about how it came together. Shannon : The funny thing is that ‘ Numbered Days ’ was written in 2013. Me and the guitar player, Blake, … started [the band] Wicked River Rising and [wrote] some songs, but things didn’t work out, so we split up. … [W]hen we got Blake in this band, we still had those songs we had written, so we decided to see if we could still use them. Three of those songs … ended up on this album. MaM : Let’s get into a little band history. Cody : Well, we’ve always known each other, and Shannon and I have played in various bands since 2003, but I was an outsider. I was never from Ascension Parish or the Baton Rouge scene. I started playing in the band Knever with Jeremy Pourcy and John Maher, and at the time, Shannon was with Black Market Halos . We were always crossing paths … playing shows and we had a brotherhood between bands in the early 2000’s. Fast forward to 2019, Knever tried to get back together a few times, but we just couldn’t make it work. John calls me up one day, though, and asks me about Shannon, and then tells me to call him, so I did. That was the beginning of the first incarnation of the band, and Scott Hood, who plays bass—Shannon already knew him from playing in Black Market Halos and Soul Erosion. Eventually, Blake Cage came into the mix from Absolum, and we all meshed. Now, as far as the drummer goes, that’s a different story. We auditioned six people. Shannon : We went a whole year without a drummer. We just could not find anyone, so we got together to practice without one for a bit. One day, a friend sent me a video on Facebook of a drummer I should check out, and I liked what I saw, so I hit the guy up. I ended up sending him some music with no lyrics, and he wanted me to send something with my singing on it. We ended up going to Jeremy’s house [Pourcy], and we put vocals on three songs, and then I sent it to him, and he said, ‘When do you practice again?’ That was it. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : How did the name for the band come about? Shannon : I came up with the name from a song I wrote, and to me, Branded for Exile stands for all the people who grew up like I did. The Metalheads, the outcasts … the ones with the long hair … the ones with tattoos … we are all ‘branded for exile’ in a way. Originally, though, we wanted to call the band Undaunted, but another band already had that name. Everyone liked [Branded for Exile] and agreed upon it, so here we are. MaM : Take us through the songwriting process. How do you approach new material? Shannon and Cody : Someone comes in with a riff. Shannon : Yeah, we’ll start with the riff, and then I freestyle lyrics to it until we get everything together. By the time that is done, I usually have the lyrics written. I like to write straight off the vibe. When we have another practice, I’ll sing the lyrics exactly as they are written to make sure I don’t have to alter them in any way, and then boom—it’s a song. Cody : As far as the music is concerned, everybody plays their part and knows their roles. You can’t have five Alpha guys trying to write one song. Somebody must step back, and another must come forward. With each song, you can tell who came forward to add their special touch. Sometimes you’re the writer and sometimes you’re the producer. Sometimes, you have to just sit back and let it happen. We live by the rule that the song is not finished until it’s recorded. Credit: Chad Besse MaM : If you guys could tour with anyone in the future, who would it be and why? Also, where do you see yourselves headed in the future as a band? Shannon : Shit … (laughter) Shannon : I think I would want to play with Killswitch [Engage]. That is my wife’s favorite band. … but it’s so hard to even imagine being able to play with so many great bands … that’s a tough one. Cody : Since I grew up on 80’s thrash, it would have to be Metallica, Slayer, Anthrax , or Megadeth . Shannon : I know there is going to come a time when I won’t be able to play music anymore, so I just want to put out as much as I can. I want to add to the legacy. I want to get older and have my grandkids go, ‘This is my Grandpa’, ya know? When I was younger, I chased the music dream. I wanted to be a rockstar, but it just didn’t pan out that way. MaM : … but what if it did happen now? Cody : I love these guys and they’re like my brothers, but I don’t know if I want to be over 50 and out on the road touring. If I was still 20 or 30, then yeah, because we did chase that dream, and I did give it 100%. I don’t think that I’m going to look back and think that I didn’t give it enough effort. If something were to happen, whatever it is, I would hope it would benefit all the bands here in Louisiana. A high tide raises all ships. If we get out there and our name gets out there, I just hope that it helps somebody else younger. To learn more about Branded for Exile and to check out “Born in the Flames”, hit one of the links below. Facebook Instagram Distrokid *cover photo by Chad Besse www.cmdbphotography.myportfolio.com chad besse www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Nicole Brice loves discovering new music. Got something you think she’d like to hear? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

A list of Netflix original content to watch, stream, and binge in July < Back What's On Netflix: July 2023 Keeley Brooks Jul 4, 2023 Share A list of Netflix original content to watch, stream, and binge in July I’m pretty sure I speak for everyone when I scream out how much I wish the writers’ strike would come to an end. Give these writers what they deserve so we can get back to makin’ new content, please! At least Netflix doesn’t seem to be hurting with their influx of new original content streaming in July. We have some pretty cool documentaries, a healthy amount of comedy, an expansion of the 2018 hit movie Bird Box , and we’ll see the final season of Henry Cavill as Geralt in Season 3 Volume 2 of The Witcher , which premieres at the end of the month. I’ve enjoyed the series, but I will say I sure hope Volume 2 is much better than Volume 1. Here’s a full list of (most) everything hitting the streaming giant over the next few weeks. NEW ORIGINAL MOVIES UNKNOWN: THE LOST PYRAMID JULY 3 Two teams race against the clock to see who will make the bigger discovery, and thus make their mark on history, in this archeological documentary following two of the world’s most famous Egyptologists seeking to unearth ancient treasures. In the desert sands of Saqqara, the latest hotspot of Egyptian archeology, Dr. Zahi Hawass hunts for the long-lost pyramid of a forgotten Egyptian king while his protegé, Dr. Mostafa Waziri, searches for an unlooted tomb in an ancient necropolis. TOM SEGURA: SLEDGEHAMMER JULY 4 Comedian Tom Segura is back with his fifth Netflix special, Sledgehammer . In front of a sold-out crowd in Phoenix, Arizona, Tom explores his “admiration” for Brad Pitt, what it’s like raising two boys, and the lessons learned from sharing his gummies with his mom. WHAM! JULY 5 Most of you Millennials may have never heard of WHAM! but back in the day (1980s), this teenage English pop duo of best friends George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley was one of the most commercially successful pop acts of the decade, selling more than 30 million records worldwide from 1982 to 1986 . The documentary tells WHAM’s story, in their own words, of how in four years they came to dominate the charts around the world with their timeless, classic pop songs. THE OUT-LAWS JULY 7 Starring Adam Devine ( The Righteous Gemstones ), Ellen Barkin ( Animal Kingdom ), Nina Dobrev ( The Vampire Diaries ), and Pierce Brosnan ( Black Adam ), this story follows Owen Browning (Devine), a strait-laced bank manager, as he's about to marry the love of his life, Parker (Dobrev). When his bank is held up by the infamous Ghost Bandits during his wedding week, Owen believes his future in-laws (Brosnan and Barkin), who just arrived in town, are the infamous Out-Laws. UNKNOWN: KILLER ROBOTS JULY 10 A documentary following the terrifying behind-the-scenes efforts of military-funded scientists racing to build the AI-powered robots changing the face of warfare and the activists on a mission to expose their dangerous potential. BIRD BOX BARCELONA JULY 15 From the producers of the hit phenom Bird Box comes Bird Box Barcelona , an expansion of the film that captivated audiences in 2018. After an entity of mysterious origin annihilates the world’s population causing those who observe it to take their lives, Sebastián and his young daughter must navigate their own journey of survival through the desolate streets of Barcelona. As they form an uneasy alliance with other survivors and make their way toward a safe haven, a threat much more sinister than the unseen creature grows. UNKNOWN: CAVE OF BONES JULY 17 Man, Unknown is crankin' 'em out! In South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind, Paleoanthropologist Lee Berger has found the world’s oldest graveyard—and it’s not human. In an effort to alter everything we know about hominid evolution and the origins of belief, Berger and his team work to prove this ancient, small-brained, ape-like creature practiced complex burial rituals UNKNOWN: COSMIC TIME MACHINE JULY 24 With unique access behind the scenes to NASA’s ambitious mission to launch the James Webb Space Telescope, we follow a team of engineers and scientists as they take the next giant leap in our quest to understand the universe. THEY CLONED TYRONE JULY 21 Starring Jamie Foxx ( Horrible Bosses , which, if you haven’t seen that movie, I highly recommend it; it's a fantastic barrel of laughs), Kiefer Sutherland ( 24 ), David Alan Grier ( Joe Pickett ), and John Boyega ( Stars Wars: The Force Awakens ). A series of events thrusts an unlikely trio onto the trail of a nefarious government conspiracy in this pulpy mystery caper from writer/director Juel Taylor ( Creed II ). THE DEEPEST BREATH JULY 19 This A24-produced documentary is about a champion record-setting free diver and an expert safety diver training and attempting to make history with a remarkable feat. HAPPINESS FOR BEGINNERS JULY 27 A romcom starring Yellowstone ’s Luke Grimes and the Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt ’s Ellie Kemper. When Helen (Kemper) signs up for a wilderness survival course a year after her divorce, she finds herself hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail with her little brother’s best friend (Grimes). She discovers through this experience that sometimes you just have to get really lost in order to find yourself. THE WITCHER SEASON 3 - VOLUME 2 JULY 27 The final installment of the last season of Henry Cavill as The Witcher, where he’ll be hanging up his wig for good. credit: Netflix HIDDEN STRIKE JULY 28 Two ex-special forces soldiers must escort a group of civilians along Baghdad’s “Highway of Death” to the safety of the Green Zone in this action comedy from Director Scott Waugh ( Need for Speed ). Starring Jackie Chan ( Rush Hour movies), John Cena ( Peacemaker ), Sylvester Stallone ( Rocky movies), and maybe some other recognizable faces. NEW & RETURNING ORIGINAL SHOWS The Lincoln Lawyer Season 2 – July 6 Hack My Home – July 7 Quarterback Season 1 – July 12 Sugar Rush: The Baking Point Season 1 – July 12 Too Hot to Handle Season 5 – July 14 Sweet Magnolias Season 3 – July 20 Mark Normand: Soup to Nuts, a stand-up comedy special – July 25 The Great British Baking Show: The Professionals Season 7 – July 26 Missing: The Lucie Blackman Case – July 26 How to Become a Cult Leader (a tongue-in-cheek limited series) – July 28 Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for content 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

New and returning content to keep you busy and out of the heat < Back Hottest Titles Streaming August 2023 Keeley Brooks Aug 1, 2023 Share New and returning content to keep you busy and out of the heat No matter where you are right now, chances are it is HOT. To help you beat the heat, some of the best streaming services are serving up new seasons of popular series as well as new titles for you to check out before heading back to school or wherever it is you’re headed. August features the return of fan favorites such as Billions and Reservation Dogs and the premiere of new series—the headliner of which is Star Wars: Ahsoka . Below is a complete list of some of this season’s hottest titles arriving over the next four weeks. Pickins might be gettin’ slim with this writers’ strike, but there’s still plenty to enjoy! Apple TV Plus Physical , Season 3 – Rose Byrne ( Bridesmaids ) is back with the final season of this dark comedy that follows aerobic exercise guru Sheila, who is bulimic, as she deals with increased competition. This season, Sheila steps out of recovery to question if her judgmental inner hater was actually the key to her success. Joining Byrne is Zooey Deschanel ( New Girl ) as Kelly Kilmartin, a blonde who’s taking the crown that Sheila thought was hers. Expect things to spiral as they feature more anxiety and more rad-tastic 80’s outfits. Premieres Aug. 2. FX on Hulu Reservation Dogs, Season 3 – The hit Native American coming-of-age dramedy is back, also with its final season, to bid farewell to Native teens Bear (D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, of Bloody Hell ), Elora (Devery Jacobs, of The Order TV series), Cheese (Lane Factor, of The Fabelmans), and Willie Jack (Paulina Alexis, of Ghostbusters: Afterlife ), whose ups and downs have induced belly-aching laughter and sobs full of tears. Last season saw the teens make it to California to honor dearly departed Daniel; this season, they’ll all head home to the reservation—except for Bear, who ventures off to find his own way. Premieres Aug. 2. *If you missed my interview with Mose and Miko earlier this year (Lil Mike and Funny Bone), you can find that here . Only Murders in the Building, Season 3 – This season at the Arconia, Charles (Steve Martin, of Father of the Bride ), Mabel (Selena Gomez, of Spring Breakers ), and Oliver (Martin Short, of Innerspace ) find themselves wrapped up in a murder that’s all about the theater. Paul Rudd ( Dinner for Shmucks ) plays an actor who falls ill during a production that Oliver is directing and Charles co-stars in. And since the dearly departed was a smug guy, there are plenty of suspects. Also joining the season is Meryl Streep ( The Devil Wears Prada ). Premieres Aug. 8. Netflix Painkiller – Man, oh man. These opioid crisis adaptations just keep on coming, and I suspect they will for a minute. This drama starring Matthew Broderick ( Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ) tells the story of the origins and effects of the opioid epidemic that has ravaged hundreds of thousands of lives across America. Six episodes trace the creation and proliferation of OxyContin, the power wielded by the pharmaceutical industrial complex, the government’s failures, and the addictions that developed from the drug. The stellar cast also includes Uzo Aduba ( Orange is the New Black ) and Taylor Kitsch ( John Carter ). Premieres Aug. 10. Heart of Stone – Gal Gadot ( Wonder Woman ) is back and still kicking ass. From The Old Guard producers, Gadot stars as Rachel Stone, a covert agent who is also part of an elite group called The Charter. They’re highly trained with no political or national ties, and their only goal is to keep the peace in a turbulent world. Rachel and The Charter are helped by an asset called The Heart, which has untold powers: Own the heart, own the world. If it gets into the wrong hands, death and destruction could follow. Premieres Aug. 11. Showtime Billions, Season 7 – Axe is back, baby! At the end of Season 5, Damian Lewis ( Band of Brothers ) was off to exile in Switzerland. Now, his return may give Chuck Rhoades (Paul Giamatti, of Sideways ) two formidable foes. The other is Mike Prince (Corey Stoll, of Midnight in Paris ), who took over Axe’s hedge fund. Although he lost $3.5 billion when his black-box drives were taken, Prince saved enough face to still be in the running for president. Chuck is prepared to take him down — at whatever cost. Premieres Aug. 13, also on Paramount Plus. HBO and Max Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, Season 2 – I was wondering if we were going to get a second season, so I’m glad we are! The somewhat controversial biographical series may not have the support of key Lakers figures like Magic Johnson and Jerry West, but it’s hitting the court for another season anyway. This round takes place in the period just after the 1980 NBA Finals through to 1984. Owner Jerry Buss (John C. Reilly, of Step Brothers ) is riding high after the changes he instituted led to a championship trophy. But winning comes with a new set of expectations and pressures, particularly on Magic (Quincy Isaiah, of A Black Lady Sketch Show ) as his rivalry with nemesis Larry Bird (Sean Patrick Small, of The Just ) heats up. Premieres Aug. 6. BS High – This documentary tells the stranger-than-fiction story of high school football team Bishop Sycamore, which pulled off one of the more notable sports scams you’re ever likely to hear about. The film delves into how this fake high school managed to deceive its way into a nationally televised game on ESPN in 2021. Premieres Aug. 23. Disney Plus Star Wars: Ahsoka -- Rosario Dawson’s ( Rent ) renegade Jedi gets full billing in this new series, which ties in not just The Mandalorian , but also the older Star Wars: Rebels and Clone Wars animated series. Ahsoka, a former trainee of Darth Vader is on the hunt for Grand Admiral Thrawn, who disappeared at the end of Rebels with Ezra Bridger, another Jedi-in-training. Will the series bring with it the best of The Mandolorian and Andor ? Only time will tell! Premieres Aug. 23. Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with 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

Lower Decks is arguably the best show of Star Trek’s modern era and is a love letter to the franchise that reminds fans not to take it too seriously. < Back Star Trek Lower Decks: Bingeworthy Shaun Corley Oct 10, 2023 Share Lower Decks is arguably the best show of Star Trek’s modern era and is a love letter to the franchise that reminds fans not to take it too seriously. Star Trek returned to television in 2017 with the premiere of Star Trek: Discovery . Despite a shaky beginning, Discovery became a hit, inspiring an entirely new line of Trek shows, including Picard, Strange New Worlds, and the late lamented Prodigy . Each of these programs has their own distinct vibe: Picard is a character-study, Prodigy was made for children, and Strange New Worlds is a modern riff on the classic Star Trek formula. These three shows have helped bring Star Trek into the modern era and introduce a new generation of fans to the final frontier. And then there is Star Trek: Lower Decks . Lower Decks is unlike any other Star Trek show yet. True, it is not Trek’s first foray into animation—seven years after the original show premiered, Star Trek: The Animated Series debuted. Airing on Saturday mornings, the show continued the adventures of Captain James Kirk, Mister Spock, and the crew of the Enterprise. The show, more sophisticated than other cartoons of the era, introduced a number of cool concepts and characters to the mythos. Unfortunately, Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry later declared the show out of canon, although this has not stopped later writers from “backdooring” certain aspects of the show back into continuity. While The Animated Series’ canonicity is debatable, Star Trek: Lower Decks is not. It is firmly a part of the Star Trek mythos and is a love letter to Star Trek as well. Created by Mike McMahan, whose other credits include Rick and Morty and Solar Opposites , Lower Decks rewards long-time fans for their deep knowledge of the franchise. Any given episode is loaded with references to other Star Trek shows and movies. Some of them are quite subtle, other are “blink and you miss it.” The animation style is similar to the other shows McMahan has worked on. This initially led to skepticism among fans: How exactly do you reconcile the Star Trek universe with what are decidedly raunchy cartoons? The answer is: It works beautifully. Beginning a few years after the events of Star Trek: Nemesis , Lower Decks follows the adventures of four (later five) lowly ensigns aboard the USS Cerritos , a California-class starship specializing in “second contacts.” The Cerritos is not a glamorous Galaxy-class ship like the Enterprise, nor is it a warship like the Defiant. Instead, it is just another ship in the fleet. While this may not sound like it would make for compelling viewing, Star Trek: Lower Decks is arguably the best show of Trek’s modern era. credit: Paramount+ Lower Decks’ five main characters—the humans Boimler, Mariner, and Rutherford, the Orion Tendi, and the Vulcan T’Lynn—navigate the ups and downs of starship life in the late 24th century. Boimler (voiced by Jack Quaid, of The Boys ) is an eager beaver, a student of Starfleet history who desires a command of his own one day. His best friend on the Cerritos is Beckett Mariner (voiced by Tawny Newsome, of Space Force ), the daughter of the ship’s captain with a long history of insubordination. Sam Rutherford (Eugene Cordero, of Loki ), stationed in Engineering, adores his job, as does his best friend Tendi (Noël Wells, of The Incredible Jessica James ), who works in the sickbay. They were joined in season four by T’Lynn (Gabrielle Ruiz, of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend ), who first appeared in the show’s second season. Lower Decks also shines a light on the Cerritos’ senior officers as well; among them are Chief of Engineering Billups, voiced by comedian Paul Scheer, and the arrogant but ultimately competent Commander Ransom, voiced by Jerry O’Connell ( The Donor Party ). Chief Billups and Commander Ransom (credit: Paramount+) Despite its toilet-bowl humor, and its TV-MA rating, Lower Decks is surprisingly wholesome. The constant barrage of in-jokes and references are never meant in a mean-spirited way; instead, they pay homage to Star Trek’s rich 57-year legacy. Lower Decks has given shout-outs to every corner of the Star Trek franchise, with some cuts so deep they can go over viewers’ heads. Lower Decks also subverts franchise tropes, and no character better exemplifies this than Tendi. Hailing from the planet Orion, Tendi is an eager, cheerful medical officer—a stark contrast to what fans had seen of Orion before. Prior to Lower Decks , the Orions were best known for the green slave girls, supposedly so desirable that no man could resist them. Star Trek: Enterprise tried to rectify this by revealing that Orion women secrete pheromones that control men. However, the execution of this left something to be desired. On the other hand, Lower Decks has flipped the script on every bit of this: Tendi is not a sensual slave girl nor are other Orion women. The “pheromones controlling the men” have been retooled as well, making Orion a matrilineal society. credit: Paramount+ That’s just one example of the genius of Star Trek: Lower Decks . Despite initial misgivings, fans by and far have embraced the series. The characters are exceptionally well-written, with superb performances by the voice cast. Lower Decks has also made significant strides in representation: the aforementioned Billlups is coded for asexuality and the show has featured crew members wearing the hijab and the Sikh dastar. Lower Decks is a love letter to the Star Trek franchise that reminds fans not to take it too seriously. Lower Decks is currently streaming on (with a subscription) Paramount+ and Prime Video, or you can rent Seasons 1-4 on Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. 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, but they’re far outnumbered by comic books and the smell of rich mahogany in the air. 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

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

< Back Masked Mutilator Ezekiel Kincaid Share Jan 25, 2024 Masked Mutilator combines horror and wrestling, making for the ultimate B-movie experience. Zeke’s rating: 4 out of 5 Choke Slams Two of the greatest things God blessed us with on this planet are horror movies and wrestling. But you know what’s even better? When horror and wrestling combine for the ultimate B-movie experience! This is what we have in today’s review of Masked Mutilator . As a child of the 80s, I was a huge wrestling fan. It was the golden age of the sport, filled with icons such as Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, The Undertaker, Sting, Lex Luger, and Ric Flair. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, we had the attitude era that started in the late 90s and carried into the early 2000s. This is when the more extreme stuff, like ECW ( Extreme Championship Wrestling ) went mainstream. And I loved it! I actually had the privilege of going to one of their events and saw a drunk guy pee all over the parking lot with a dazed look in his eyes and a smile on his face. Fun times. With that said, you can imagine my excitement when I came across a film called Masked Mutilator . I had high hopes for this movie, and it did not disappoint! To make things even better, one of my favorite B-movie actors of all time directed and played a leading role in this movie. Brick Bronsky , who passed in 2021, starred in the epic Troma films Class to Nuke’em High Part 3, Return to Nuke’em High Part 1, and Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. An interesting fact about Masked Mutilator is that it was filmed at two different times, over two decades apart. In 1994, the main storyline was filmed and was tucked away until 2018-2019, when the wrap-around segment was filmed. Filmmakers combined the two recordings and released it in 2019. Masked Mutilator opens with the wrap-around segment, in which Investigative Podcaster Jim Dorian (Steve Mittman, of Blood Hunter: Thirst and Rage ) hosts a show called “Dorian Investigates”. He has with him one of the surviving victims (and his girlfriend) of the Masked Mutilator’s carnage. As he begins to tell his story, the scene switches to Vic Mangino, aka Masked Mutilator (played by WCW, NWA wrestler, Jeff Sibbach), accidentally killing an opponent in the ring. Credit: IMDb He seems to show no remorse over his actions, and after leaving the sport, he takes a job as a house parent at a teenage rehabilitation center. And this is where the fun begins. We’ve got a great team of bad actors that play the teenagers in the home, and it makes for some hilarious interactions . First, there is bad boy Rocker (Glen Hetrick, Star Trek: Discovery 2019 and Face Off TV show judge) , who pretty much hates life and everyone else. He likes to play air guitar and bang his head to music only he can hear in his mind. Then we have Mason (Chet Cole, If Then Scenario ), Rocker’s right-hand man. He thinks he’s super tough but comes off as the type of guy who probably sleeps with stuffed unicorns and plays with dolls underneath his covers at night. We also have our “yes man” Jake (Paul Sutt, of Watchmen ), who’s a typical 90’s stoner and tags along with Rocker and Mason. But what would our story be without the promiscuous girl and the good kids who have fallen on hard times? Have no fear, reader, we have both in Masked Mutilator . Marcy (Amanda Kupchinsky) is the house slut. She denies it vehemently while attempting to bang everything that secretes the slightest amount of testosterone. Our good kids who have fallen on hard times are Greg and Leslie, a brother/sister duo played by Andrew Denzel and Heidi Shelhamer, whose only claim to fame—like Kupchinsky—is Masked Mutilator . And our story wouldn’t be complete without throwing in a presumptuous intern, a karate badass, and a chef who can’t cook for shit. The illustrious Brick Bronsky stars as Steve Carson, who comes on to serve as an intern to help Vic. He’s idealistic, pompous, and thinks he knows it all. Our karate expert is Brain Worth (Tom Taylor, of Blood Hunter: Thirst and Rage ), who winds up in the house for being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Former professional wrestler Doug Yasinsky, aka Dashing Doug Flex, plays the part of Carl the Cook, serving the houseguests up with one inedible dish after another. With the stage set, the murders begin. One by one, the kids in the house are picked off by the Masked Mutilator. The kills are mostly done with wrestling moves, including Masked Mutilator’s finishing hold, which is basically a crude version of Ted DiBiase’s Million Dollar Dream. The gore is fun and done in typical B-movie fashion. Throw in some fake severed limbs and you got yourself a nice serving of B-movie soup . As the story unfolds, things take a turn, and Brian Worth must use his karate skills to try and save the day. There are some red herrings and twists to try and throw you off of guessing who the real killer is, but certainly don’t expect anything like Scream or Valentine . Lower your expectations, and when you’ve done that, lower them a little more. All in all, Masked Mutilator is an enjoyable B movie. If you like your wrestling mixed with horror, or your horror mixed with wrestling, I recommend you check out this little gem. Masked Mutilator is currently streaming on Tubi, Vudu, Prime Video, YouTube Premium, The Roku Channel, and Google Play. 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 . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Beyond Secret Smoker and Heavy Mantle < Back When Punk Turns Acoustic: William Edward Thompson Nicole Brice Feb 17, 2023 Share Beyond Secret Smoker and Heavy Mantle Being a native of South Louisiana and born and raised near Baton Rouge , which was always a short distance away from me, my late teens and early 20s were spent immersed in all the local music the various scenes had to offer. Over the years, though, adulthood would lead me to no longer be part of those scenes that molded and shaped me as a youth, and so, many local acts were lost to me over the years. The recent discovery of the local projects associated with William Edward Thompson led me to want to know more about this man with the incredibly expressive lyrics and perfect screamo voice resembling Geoff Rickly from Thursday . Involved in numerous projects throughout the years like Girl Scout Heroin and Jenaset , William is currently wrapped up in Secret Smoker and Heavy Mantle . His knack for writing poetic and insightful lyrics places him in the “need to know” category of musicians. Citing the skate culture that defined him as a child, William’s interest in music grew out of the environment around him. credit: Gary Governale As a multi-talented artist, William not only sings, but he also plays bass, guitar, and drums. When asked about his different talents, he modestly acknowledges his abilities. If I could describe William Edward Thompson in one word, it would be humble. With his acoustic tunes, his voice turns away from the tone used in his other projects and instead is replaced with a softer, more genuine one. Truly, Thompson’s sound is both exceptional and classic—his colorful use of words creating an imaginary landscape full of symbolism. His thought-provoking lyrics on his upcoming new solo single make “ On Your Way ” a song you must listen to; it releases February 24 via Protagonist Music. A full-length LP is planned for release later in the year from Protagonist Music as well. Soft-spoken, polite, and modest, William Edward Thompson , known to most as Billy , possesses a rare vibe mostly absent from the scene these days—a vibe evoking the nostalgia of the iconic James Dean . His music, vibe, and charisma will draw you right in. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Thank you for carving out some time for me. I appreciate it. What led to you wanting to make a solo record? WT : I started playing acoustic more during the pandemic, and that’s what kind of prompted it. I was listening to a lot of acoustic stuff and solo artist stuff, and it influenced me in a way. Mark from Secret Smoker and I also did a cover of a Small Brown Bike song for one of their compilations with some other artists. They are my favorite band. Mark recorded the acoustic with his cell phone and I sang over it, and I thought, “Hey, this doesn’t sound bad. This can be done.” I kind of looked around at the genre we focus on, and there are not a ton of people doing acoustic stuff in our community of hardcore and punk, and I just wanted to bring it out and do it. MaM : What would you say the direction of the solo album is artistically? WT : So, with all of my bands, the music has always been full of complex sounds and rhythms, and I wanted to make it as simple as possible. When I approached the acoustic material, I thought, ‘How can I make this simple and as straightforward as possible?’ Even more so, my most recent band Heavy Mantle, that’s the direction we have been going as well. I just wanted to make an album that anyone could say, ‘Hey, I can play that. I could do that.’ MaM : What inspired the songs on the upcoming album? WT : I’ve been reading about Dharma Art for several years now, and I kind of take that approach with writing and with lyrics, too. I try to not make them overly complicated. A lot of it just comes to me. Sometimes I just sit down with a guitar and the lyrics come along with the chords. It goes back to serving the song. They’re just poems. That’s all they are. It’s not like I go, ‘This is going to be a poem, and I’m going to make it out into a song.’ It happens. It just happens in the moment. With cell phones, too, I can record anything, and it makes it much easier to retain what was written in that moment. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Have all of the songs been written for the upcoming album, or is it still a work in process? WT : The album is done. I’m still writing more songs, though … always. MaM : So, you’ve already decided on a set number of songs for the album and you’re not going to add anymore? I’ve heard you always seem to have a ton of songs written. WT : Nope. This album is done. The A and B side is done. It’s going on vinyl. That’s probably going to come out in late summer/early fall depending on the pressing plant. The single ‘ On Your Way ,’ which I recorded on my cell phone … I wanted to keep it in its purest form … [it] came out really good, surprisingly, is being released on February 24th on all platforms. credit: Gary Governale MaM : How many songs are going to be on the new album? WT : I think we ended up with ten or eleven. I can’t remember the number. MaM : Which of your many guitars did you use to record this solo material? WT : I’ve got a Gibson Acoustic that I used. I just like the tone of it. It sounds good. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Have you decided on a title yet for the upcoming LP? WT : The LP will be called ‘ Sleep Test ,’ which is also the title track on the record. MaM : We look forward to checking it out and good luck with all you currently have in the queue. ' On Your Way ' is out February 24th on all streaming platforms. To learn more about William Edward Thompson , his music, and his bands, visit his social media platforms. William Edward Thompson | Baton Rouge LA | Facebook secret smoker | Facebook Heavy Mantle | Baton Rouge LA | Facebook Secret Smoker (@secretsmoker_the_band) • Instagram photos and videos Heavy Mantle (@heavymantle) • Instagram photos and videos @williamedwardthompson666 • Instagram photos and videos Weights & Measures | Heavy Mantle | Tor Johnson Records (bandcamp.com) Dark Clouds | Secret Smoker (bandcamp.com) Terminal Architecture | Secret Smoker | adagio830 (bandcamp.com) Split 7" | Alarms & Controls / Secret Smoker | PROTAGONIST MUSIC (bandcamp.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? E-mail the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

A look at life through the lens of Louisiana-based photographer Rian Nickels. Rian's Den Jul 11, 2025 Awake and Alive: How Mod Sun Shifted My Outlook Just Look Up and Let Go Read More Jun 17, 2025 Her Riot Ignites Mid City: A Fierce Celebration of Women in Music Her Riot! proved that when you give women the stage, they tear down walls. Read More Apr 11, 2025 Rian's Den: From Vision to Reality The Journey of Making Dreams Come True Read More Mar 3, 2025 Death and Glory Tour: Palaye Royale & Johnnie Guilbert at The Joy Theater in New Orleans The Death and Glory Tour was a testament to music's power to unite us. Read More Oct 9, 2024 Rian's Den: A Night to Remember with Sleeping with Sirens Never give up on your dreams. Read More

Insightful, brilliant, and talented < Back Alfred Banks: A Blessing from the Crescent City Nicole Brice May 22, 2023 Share Insightful, brilliant, and talented Growing up, I loved the hip-hop showcased on programs like Yo! MTV Raps . The music had heart and a meaningful message. However, over the years, hip-hop has seemingly evolved away from impactful rhymes and verses towards themes focused on excess, elaborate stage shows, and corporate endorsements. As a result, I stopped paying attention and shifted my musical tastes elsewhere—until one artist emerged who could rhyme about anything and everything, with verses that had both meaning and heart. Alfred Banks ' body of work is so diverse that it will leave you amazed. He can take a blank piece of paper and create a rhyme about it right on the spot. Banks is a hip-hop musician based out of New Orleans, La. , and his latest release, ' Blessing ,' is a nod to the city that raised him. In the song, he says, “It’s a blessing coming from the Crescent” and for Alfred Banks, indeed it is. The man reps New Orleans wherever he goes, and we are lucky to be able to enjoy his talent. Banks got his start in the industry under the moniker Lyriqs Da Lyraciss at age 17 and has shared the stage with Rakim , Lupe Fiasco , Wu-Tang Clan , Tyga , Desiigner , and Kendrick Lamar , among others. He has performed at New Orleans-based events Voodoo Fest and Jazz Fest , and he even visited Reeperbahn Festival in Hamburg, Germany. Did I mention one of his songs was used for a Volkswagen commercial and that numerous songs of his are licensed to shows and movies? His knack for rhyming, his charisma, and his insightful lyrics are what got him noticed in the biz and, as we like to say, the rest is history. He has been steadily churning out music ever since, with many new ones this year, but he does not limit himself to solo material—no. This man is involved in so many projects, we lost count after a while. We did ask him about all those wonderful endeavors, though, and you can read more about them in this interview. Currently, Alfred is focused on promoting his newest album Nectarine Peels , which is part of his collaboration with Albert Allenback of Tank and the Bangas in a group called Saxkixave . These two are like the odd couple of hip-hop and their infectious videos are beyond hilarious and showcase Bank’s personality in a whole new light. In fact, the duo goes together like peanut butter and jelly and truly do complement one another. Albert makes these killer beats and Alfred comes up with the wittiest rhymes to go with them. Released May 18, 2023 In addition to Saxkixave , Alfred is continuing to perform shows like crazy, showcasing his solo material. Check out this convo we had with him recently, then go check out his catalog of material. You will fall in love with him as much as we have. MaM : When I first discovered your music, the thing that drew me in was your use of words. You can pretty much make a rhyme about anything. When did you realize you had this gift with words to take it to the next level professionally? AB : I remember when I was in sixth or seventh grade, I used to freestyle a lot. I lived in Tallulah, Louisiana for, like, three years and I would freestyle a lot with some of the kids around there. I would gravitate towards anybody who rapped—actually, I’ll go back a little further. Fifth or sixth grade was when I started noticing that I liked remixing songs in my own way. Me and my man Nigel would make comedic remixes for them. We would take any song that was hot at the time, which was 2000/2001 , and remix them about food. I started noticing I could do that off the top of my head. … Junior high was when I started to write raps, which were kinda cool. I was more into that battle type of energy. My sophomore year of high school was when I truly started writing, though. … I really started freestyle battle rapping and I noticed I could think of things on the spot. My whole thing was coming from New Orleans , you have to know how to rib and I got ribbed a lot … picked on a lot and my way to fight back was to just rap. I would just head to toe and people would die laughing. That’s kind of how I got my name. I started uploading music to MySpace and stuff. It started getting a little bit of traction and I did some shows around town. I started battling first. … I just started noticing that if I looked at someone, I could make a rap about it to whatever degree. I fell off it for some years, though, and focused on my songwriting and touring. Around 2019 , I did a tour with my man Mega Ran and he did this thing where he would ask people to hold stuff up in the air and he would freestyle about it on the spot and I [thought that was amazing and wondered if I could do that]. I started doing it with Saxkixave and it goes over well and keeps my freestyle sharp. People kind of know me as a freestyle guy now, so it’s kind of cool, then you meet someone like Ray Wimley , who is a freestyle savant, and he went viral because he freestyled with Common a few years back for Essence Fest . We actually did a freestyle battle at a Pelican’s game and that was me in front of thousands of folks having to put my freestyle skills to the test and, respectfully, I was the victor in that situation. … I don’t really write a lot, not as much as I’d like, but freestyling just kind of works. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Well, as far as your lyrics for your songs, what inspires your lyrics? 'Blessing,' of course, is based upon your love for New Orleans, but I was listening to your music and you’re all over the place with content and what you talk about. None of your songs are the same. AB : I know sometimes it makes it hard to be marketable when you do a lot of different things, but I just have a lot of different interests and I’m not always in the same space. To some degree, I guess I need to find a vein, but for the most part, I’m all over the place and I love that. 'Blessing' performed at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2023 MaM : Where did Underdog Central come from? AB : That’s my life mantra I live by. Underdog Central is the place where the overlooked go to hone their skills to come back and become admired. It’s my label name, too, and my social media handle. I made it my social media handle ‘cause Alfred Banks was taken, but because it’s my label, I wanted that name to be first before anything. I want people to know what my brand is. When I first came out, I was a little rough around the edges, a little unrefined, so I had to go back into my proverbial batcave and fix things. I came back out, though, and now am who I am. I feel like the people who are extremely talented tend to get overlooked and are always having to fight from behind from a deficit and always must prove who they are no matter if they are the most talented one in the room or not. You can’t take anything for granted and you must treat every moment as if it’s your last, so that’s what Underdog Central is about. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Are you born and raised in New Orleans? AB : Uptown, yeah, uptown New Orleans. Uptown kid for sure. MaM : Your brand of hip-hop is the type that is missing these days. It has those classic undertones and that hint of nostalgia. Your lyrics with 'Blessing' are so insightful and that song truly resonates with me. AB : Yeah, that’s a style of record I have never done before. One thing I have been noticing lately is I am the most off-brand New Orleans person you will ever meet. [I’m] born and raised in this bad boy, but when you look at my everything … I don’t even look like I’m from New Orleans. I don’t act like I’m from New Orleans…like some things I don’t even relate to, but I am definitely from here, but I never made a song I felt could resonate here. All the music I make is more for everyone. I also made it from the angle of where if someone from Detroit heard it, they could be like, ‘I feel this way about my city.’ 'Blessing' on YouTube MaM : What struggles or roadblocks did you encounter when you first tried to break into the industry? AB : Just making hip-hop in New Orleans. There was a big scene from 2007-2015 where it was a community and there were shows happening and people would come out to the shows and we all tried to support each other and spread the word about each other’s stuff, then after that, there was a shift in the music. I can say to a degree that I’ve stayed contemporary with my style. It doesn’t sound like it’s from 1989 or anything, but the more lyric heavy and conceptual idea-driven music doesn’t have as big of a platform here as other stuff. The people in the scene here, though, started to get older and started [coming out less]. That and the fact that New Orleans is not a hip-hop city, and so it doesn’t matter how talented you are. It’s been like, ‘Where’s your bounce song?’ or ‘You got a dude playing trombone on it?’. It’s funny now, though, the response I’ve gotten for the song ' Blessing ' … thirteen years into my career, you would have thought it was the first song I ever made because everyone is like ‘Finally, you got a record we like.’ I’ve got albums that have charted across the U.S., but that record is doing pretty good in New Orleans, specifically. Pick your battles. My biggest thing was just trying to do my brand and my style of hip-hop and bust open these doors that are solely reserved for people who do Zydeco or brass band music—stuff people consider New Orleans but, to a fault, it’s so New Orleans that no one wants to hear anything else. But I always thought it was weird that these big platforms—these big festivals here—only portray a certain style of New Orleans; where’s the hip-hop? That’s always been the main issue with me. I want to be the guy that can go into a room filled with musicians who do not do hip-hop to any degree but do my thing and it resonate or translates with them. I’ve kind of become that guy, though. I’m the guy in a room full of brass bands and zydeco bands who is the hip-hop representation, which is a gift and a curse because I never get to perform for my people. I always get to perform for people who are being exposed to what I do for the first time, so it kind of creates this very uncomfortable energy, which can be a bit weird at times. I’m a part of this group called Glbl Wrmng and we’re doing this Wednesday at the Square thing, which I don’t know the last time they had a hip-hop group perform there, but … I have this never say die, blind optimistic view of life, though, so I just keep going for some strange reason. credit: Gary Governale MaM : No, but that’s a good thing! You’re not admitting defeat at all. You’re just like, “I don’t care what you’re gonna throw at me. I’m just gonna keep doing my thing until it resonates,” ya know? AB : …and the funny thing is it hasn’t stopped me. I’ve been able to tour all over the world. I guess it’s not that big of a deal, but for me it is. I’m doing it less about me and more about the next. I’m a young guy, but I’ve been out for a while, and so I just want to look out for the next guys coming up that feel like me because everybody is a street rapper, and there’s nothing wrong with that. I come from the hood, but I don’t see it from that angle. I was in a house and my mom kept me in the crib, and not everyone is from that cloth. There are people, though, that take those experiences and turn them into something else. Not what you would expect. I just try my best to be that alternative for people who love hip-hop, care about bars, care about lyricism and concepts, good beats, melodies, etc. MaM : … and you bring it all. You’ve got the whole package with it. AB : I appreciate that. credit: Gary Governale MaM : Glbl Wrmng — tell me more about this. AB : Word, so Glbl Wrmng is a collective about 35 people in the city from engineers to producers to singers to rappers, graphic artists, etc., and we just all [come together] … so Glbl Wrmng is like, ‘Nope! We can!’ So that’s what we’ve done and as a collective. We’ve performed at Buku Fest , we’ve opened for Tyler the Creator , and we’ve played Jazz Fest . We’re going to be playing Wednesday at the Square , and so we’re using this as a platform to get some of the guys in the group exposure with their first big stages to give them that experience and to be around people like Pell or Train or me to help usher in those guys to just make great music. I love being a part of Glbl Wrmng. It’s very interactive. It’s teaching me how to support people from a very active standpoint, and I truly mean it when I do it and vice versa. It’s allowing me to also get involved with other people’s careers to some degree, which is fire. MaM : Well, it’s a collective grouping of like-minded individuals all supporting each together, which is awesome. AB : Yeah. Glbl Wrmng put out an album during the pandemic and I’m on it. Saxkixave is on it. It’s called ‘ Glbl Wrmng Vol. 1 ’ and it’s a dope record. We’re working on Vol. 2 right now, but at the end of the day the one thing I have learned is that collaboration is very important, especially for me the past three years. Working with Soul Rebels , working with Brassaholics , working with Flow Tribe , working with Glbl Wrmng , working with Tank and the Bangas , and all these different people has been helping me elevate my platform and get in spaces where I probably wouldn’t be normally. I’m very grateful for that. Just working to get that buzz to where it needs to be and it’s been a trial at times, but I want to just keep rapping and keep working and the inevitable will happen at some point. credit: Gary Governale MaM : So, 2023 you’re gonna just do a lot of touring or are you working on any other new solo music? AB : … Instead of putting out new stuff to the same folks, I already have music that resonates, so from there I think I’m going to use videos and promos as a ploy to get people to check out the catalog I have and then go from there. I have a lot of music that hasn’t been unearthed just yet. I have a project called Mere-Exposure Effect , which I feel is one of my best projects writing-wise. It shows I could do radio records if I really wanted to. Mere-exposure effect is an idea that if you recognize it, you’ll like it, so the whole project sounds like radio records. If it sounds like something you already know, then you’ll like it by default. I have a project called ‘ Road to a Rolex ’—some of my hardest hitting beats. I’m rapping about getting money the entire project but from a couple different aspects. I have a project titled ‘ One Guy Standing by Himself. ’ That project debuted at number three on iTunes . It was one of my most successful projects to date. That’s a project I wrote to get myself out of the mind state of COVID . I wrote that project in like a week and it’s more introspective and a little lighter-hearted. I [also] have a project called The Beautiful and that’s my magnum opus and is my biggest project to date. That project is about my brother and his struggle with schizophrenia and his ultimate suicide. The day of his funeral, I had to leave in the middle of his service because I had a show to play that night, and so I wrote an album about the car ride from the funeral to the show, so in that album, I develop schizophrenia too; so, I sort of battle it throughout the album. That’s my biggest project to date and a lot of people don’t even know it exists. I’ve also got The Range 1 and 2 . I do a song with Wheatus and a bunch of people. It’s like five different genres in one project. credit: Gary Governale MaM : I am just blown away with all the projects you have. How do you even sleep? AB : Well, for me, I did go through a time where I was putting out a lot of music and it does seem like a lot, but it really isn’t. I’ve got songs that if someone goes back in like 15 years to discover them, they’ll be like, ‘That shit was fire!’. A catalog full of those records. Some may consider me a conscious rapper and I’m not conscious in the vein of social or political issues, but I rap about things from my point of view. MaM : Well, just life. I’ve listened to all your music, and you are all over the place. No song is alike. You have so many different styles and facets to your personality and what you do. You can go from a silly track to something super serious. AB : For sure. MaM : … which I feel is so endearing and is going to continue to resonate with people—even those who are just now discovering you for the first time. AB : Honestly man, that’s just how my brain works, cause we’re human. We all go all over place. There are some days where you are very happy and so you want to listen to a happy song and then there are days where you are not happy and you don’t want to even hear music, but if you do, you want to hear some sad stuff that is introspective. Some days you want to hear something lyrical. Some days you will want to hear something conceptually driven, but that’s just how I feel. Sometimes I don’t want to write a rap record, I want to write a dance record. I want to do some EDM . I want to do like a hyper-pop record. There are some days I want to do some industrial shit. credit: Gary Governale MaM : That’s what I’m talking about. That’s my kind of music. AB : Some days I wake up, I want to go work with Albert and do some jazz or acid hip-hop or some days I just want to rap my ass off to show people how good I am. That’s just where I’m at and the path I’m on and people seem to like it. MaM : I think it’s a great path and, in fact, I don’t think you should change a thing with what you are doing. I think it shows diversity and it does not keep you in a certain type of music or anything. You are unique and different and have your own brand that is going to resonate because it is so unique and different. AB : Thank you. I’ll tell you this with all the things that have gone against me, all I’ve ever had [were] my skills and [they have] gotten me further than anything else I’ve ever done. I think that is what is going to keep me busy and keep my lights on. I just care about music, and I care about being good. I do come from the competitive aspect where if you put me on stage with other rappers, I’m going to try and outperform. I want to be the best in every room I’m in and I don’t know too many who still care about that. credit: Gary Governale MaM : You are nothing but heart. AB : Thank you. I want people to go, ‘I want to be invested in his brand of great because that boy is good.’ At the end of the day, though, I’m an entertainer, so it’s not about me. It’s about you, the audience, and I like to keep those things in mind. MaM : What are your plans for the rest of 2023? I know we’re halfway in, but where do you see the rest of the year headed for you? AB : It’s weird, I’m at this weird transitional part of my career where the business infrastructure that has been supporting me is not there because we decided to do our own thing and go our separate ways, but I’m back solo. I’ve been adjusting to that. We do have some other things down the line, though. Pre-COVID, I was doing close to 100 shows a year and in June, I’m going to Ohio. I’ll do three shows out there, then I’m going to Colorado in July. Just trying to get back to the West Coast. To experience all that is Alfred Banks, hit one of the links below. You won’t regret it. Alfred Banks (@underdogcentral) • Instagram photos and videos Alfred Banks | Facebook Alfred Banks | Spotify ‎Alfred Banks on Apple Music Saxkixave | Facebook SaxKixAve (@saxkixave) • Instagram photos and videos @SaxKixAve | Linktree *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 Nicole Brice loves good music and loves discovering new music she has not heard yet. Do you have something you’d like her to hear? Hit her up at the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

The LA Phantoms have the strength and will to create music that resonates. < Back The LA Phantoms: A Louisiana Punk Band with a Rich History Nicole Brice Nov 4, 2024 Share The LA Phantoms have the strength and will to create music that resonates. The LA Phantoms , a Louisiana punk band, has a rich history of resilience and readiness to face any challenge. Since the early 2000s , the band has seen many line-up changes and iterations, but their strength and determination to create music that resonates with their audience have never wavered. We are thrilled to share their story with you. Credit: Gary Governale Formed in the early 90s under the name Mystic Fix , the LA Phantoms are a homegrown band originally from Ville Platte that moved to Lafayette, Louisiana . There, they underwent numerous line-up changes due to member deaths and other tragic circumstances, but they never stopped. With even more changes since then, The LA Phantoms have emerged today through these trials and tribulations, ready to conquer the musical landscape. Today, the band is fronted by Cutty and Mac , who share vocal duties. Cutty , who also plays bass, Mac on drums, and Jaysun Birdman on guitar round out all the band duties. Sometimes, they'll invite other musicians on stage with them, too, because it is all about the music. This trio is brimming with anticipation for the new era of punk rock they are about to be a part of, with new music set to be released in 2025, and we cannot wait. I had the absolute pleasure of hearing this new music, and I can assure you, it's something to look forward to. A vast range of influences have solidified the LA Phantoms ' tight sound, and they are dedicated and determined to leave their mark on music history. To describe the LA Phantoms ' music, it is good, solid punk rock. There is no fluff, no frills, just straight-up enjoyable punk rock. The LA Phantoms , a trio of humble yet immensely talented musicians, embody a relentless drive and determination to push the boundaries of their craft. Their unwavering commitment to their music is admirable, and we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for them. Mixed Alternative Magazine had the privilege of engaging in a profound conversation with the LA Phantoms , and their love and dedication to their craft was genuinely inspiring. Read on to learn more about their journey. MaM : Let’s dive into your band history. Tell us a bit about how you got started and where. Mac : This band was an incarnation that spawned from another band. A punk band was called Mystic Fix . Mystic Fix was formed in the early 90s , around 1994 , in Ville Platte , Louisiana , by our brother, Chris . It was Chris and James , and another guy named Timmy on drums, who is my brother-in-law now, so then they moved from Ville Platte to Lafayette , and the other guys from Ville Platte fell off, and Chris continued with us with a different line-up. The line-up fluctuated between various people until it ended up being me, Cutty , Chris , and Luke Duke . We played a few shows with that line-up, but Chris wanted to play more rock n roll, and he was discovering bands like Nashville Pussy and Speedealer – a lot of Southern rock stuff. Mac Black by Gary Governale Eventually, he told me he didn’t want to go on with the name Mystic Fix anymore. He then said he wanted to start another band with more of a rock n roll approach because he thought it would give us more gigs across the country. He didn’t want to be pigeonholed into the whole punk rock scene. Fewer dive bars and bigger, more prominent venues. This all happened about 2001 , and that was when we officially started The LA Phantoms . It was me , Chris , and Luke Duke ( Choke ). We wrote and recorded an album and put it out. Luke lived in Lake Charles , and Chris lived in Lafayette . Luke eventually fell out because he couldn’t commute from Lake Charles to Lafayette to rehearse. We ended up getting another guy, Damien Miller . Damien was the bass player for that run of LA Phantoms and passed away in 2007. That run of The Phantoms went from 2001-2005 . Also, Creosote Jones from Cheater Pipe played with us for a few years and helped write many songs with us. Credit: Gary Governale Cutty : We also had a harmonica player. He did lead harmonica solos. MaM : Man, I’d be curious to see how that fits in with your sound. Mac : We have a link to it. We can send it to you. MaM : Yes. Please send me the link. Cutty : It gave it kind of a blues edge. It worked with the formula. It was kind of like the song “ Electric Worry ” by Clutch . They have harmonica on that song. MaM : So how did you get to the band's current incarnation? Mac : Chris died. MaM : Oh wow … Mac : In 2005 , my wife Jessica was terminal, so I had to quit the band because I couldn’t really play shows or go anywhere. We had been gigging everywhere from Austin to New Orleans , and I couldn’t go on the road because my wife needed me. Mac Black by Gary Governale MaM : I’m so sorry, man. I understand. Mac : I quit the band, and Chris started Mystic Fix back up with some other guys in Ville Platte . He started having trouble with his drummer because of his lack of interest. After my wife passed away, he asked me to join the band because he had recently signed up with a local label in Carencro . Chris gave me a cassette of the songs he planned to record, and I learned all the songs. The last show was at a skate park in Lafayette , and I got on stage to sing with them. This was June 10, 2007 . On the next day, June 11th , Chris passed away, and then I found out on my birthday, June 12th , that he passed. We were devastated by this. To help with his funeral expenses, they asked me to put together a band to gig and help make money to pay for his funeral. I told them we would learn all the songs Chris had created. Chris’ girlfriend sang for us, and we raised a few thousand dollars and were able to bury him. Chris’ girlfriend later became my wife. Her name is Julie Jab . Then there was this guy named Shane , who played bass briefly. He was like the Sid Vicious of Lafayette—a lot of stage presence. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Then what? Mac : We got Cutty . Me and Cutty had played in Mystic Fix , and he was with us when we were writing the early songs with LA Phantoms , and he came back once we got rid of Shane . Then we gigged like that till my wife had a heart operation. She had a valve replacement. She couldn’t continue with us. Then I started a band called Black Feratu , with my friend James Feratu . That was metal , and we did it for a few years. Then, the original guitarist for Mystic Fix was on his deathbed and was not doing well. He decided he wanted to play another run of shows, so he and Luke went with Cutty and I , and we started doing Mystic Fix songs. Still, we decided to do some LA Phantoms songs, too, but then James got on the stage one night, and he could only do half a song, and he was on a tank of oxygen and just couldn’t do it anymore. Cutty by Gary Governale MaM : Wow, bless his heart. Cutty : Yeah, his last performance was in Lafayette at The Boom Boom Room . He was convinced he could stand up and play the songs. We tried to persuade him to sit down, but he stood up like a soldier and tried to troop through the song. Unfortunately, he did pass out, which was James ’ last performance on stage. MaM : To me, that is badass because that shows his dedication to music. Cutty : One of the toughest MF’ers to get on stage. MaM : I admire people like that, man. Those are the actual soldiers. Mac : That’s right. Till we die, we don’t stop. Cutty : Unfortunately, he did. MaM : You all have an interesting story. Mac : Tragedy at every step. Cutty : Today, we are coming to you for this interview from the slab that used to be Changes . Mystic Fix was pretty much the house band at Changes . Love it or hate it, but if this slab could tell stories, we could write an incredible book. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Reminds me of the Dischord House and how well-known it is. Cutty : The sacred slab. Mac : Until it burned down. MaM : You’re back to where it all began, and it is fortunate that we are doing this interview today. Brings back all full circle. Let’s get into the music. Your music blows me away, and I can’t wait to market it. When are you planning to release the songs you sent me? Mac : We just finished mastering them and got the final footage for the video we are putting together of ‘ Slow What .’ The plan is to release everything simultaneously on all platforms, though. MaM : I think that sounds great. It's punk rock meets melodic thrash punk. It has a unique sound. I love the heavy bass on ‘ Slow What ,’ when the guitar comes in, it’s strong as hell, man, and that whole song takes off. It reminds me of The Melvins meets Tad . That’s the first vibe I got. With ‘Tight Grip,’ that song is aggressive out the gate, and then ‘Vampire,’ has that whole Van Halen ‘ Hot for Teacher ’ vibe. What inspired you to come up with your sound on these tracks? That is the LA Phantoms sound. Mac : It’s just all our influences. I wouldn’t say I like being put in a box. Cutty : A broad spectrum or prism. Without it, you’ll be limited and boring. We try to expand as much as we can. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Who are your influences then? Cutty : The Misfits , Social Distortion , Slayer , Corrosion of Conformity Mac : James Brown , Taj Mahal , Sly and the Family Stone . Cutty : We also have another element of the music you haven’t heard yet. It’s more funk and blues. It's like Minutemen meets Sly and the Family Stone . We also have a small catalog of that. MaM : I can’t wait to hear that! You guys are talented as hell. Let’s do this. What is your ultimate goal as a band, and what are you looking to accomplish with your music? Mac : Our short-term goal is to release this music and expand our range of gigs. We have only been playing mainly in Lafayette and Lake Charles . We want to play Metairie and New Orleans more, maybe even Texas . In the long term, I’d love to tour Europe . My friends do this already, so I feel it’s achievable. Jaysun Birdman by Gary Governale MaM : Let’s make this happen. What is about music that makes you passionate? Cutty : It’s a release. You can have all these problems – weights and burdens on your back, and when I pick up my instrument, everything starts coming together. Even if it’s just 15 minutes or two hours, it makes everything okay. Jason : The creativity and playing live. There’s nothing else like it. I love the camaraderie we have. We played a show with Choke recently. They are awesome guys. Super cool. I love hanging out with everyone because we have so much in common, and everyone is so supportive of each other. Mac : Music sets me free and connects me to the universe. It connects with all is one, and one is all when I play music. It’s flow. It puts you in this flow state. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : They say music is medicine, and the Chinese symbol for medicine is like music. Tell me about the worst show you’ve put on so far, and then tell me about a good show you played. Cutty : I can’t focus on a bad show because it broadens the human horizon even if we mess up. We’re all people. It’s like a joke. If you trip, are you going to laugh with the crowd, or are you going to get laughed at, pissed off, and make an entire burden about it? You don’t do that. It would be best to roll with the punches because even a horror show is still a show. We’re out. We’re playing music. We’re having a good time, and we try to make the best out of it. That’s about it. As far as the best one? With these two guys, it’s always good. Mac : I’d have to say the last show or the ones going on right now are the best ones. The worst show I’ve ever shown is when there is violence at the show. Someone would be throwing bottles at us, or someone would come into the club with a gun or just incidences like that. Just don’t stop playing unless we have to chase someone out. Cutty : Now, if we got hit with a bottle, we’d have to beat the piss out of them. (laughter) Cutty : It’s just expected. (laughter) Mac : Well, the time with the gun, we didn’t stop playing. They walked in with the gun, pointed it at someone, and that was it. Credit: Gary Governale (laughter) MaM: If you could share the stage with anyone in the future, like your dream show, who would you pick, and why? Cutty : I would say opening for The Misfits and Suicidal Tendencies. That would be the perfect show for me. Mac : I have to concur. MaM : In the next five years, where would you like to be as a band? Mac : Touring Europe and playing big festivals. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : If someone approached you and asked you to describe your music to them, how would you sell it to them? Mac : Gangster Punk Rock n Roll (laughter) Cutty : I like that one. What was the phrase you wanted to put on shirts? Mac : Vampire bank robbers from outer space (laughter) MaM : Last question – how does music inspire you daily? Mac : To get up in the morning and face the world. Motivation to work out and live life. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Same Cutty : Adrenaline and therapy – when you combine the two, that can also have a positive effect, and for us three, it works. MaM : Oh yeah, 100%. Jaysun : It helps me grow. I like to learn new stuff. I’m a student of the game. As The LA Phantoms prepare to embark on a new year with new music, they will undoubtedly begin to build a following. Stay tuned for much more from this trio. To learn more about LA Phantoms : Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559706162429 *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

New Arrivals on Netflix, Hulu, Prime, AppleTV, and HBOMax < Back What to Watch This Weekend (10.28.22) Keeley Brooks Oct 27, 2022 Share New Arrivals on Netflix, Hulu, Prime, AppleTV, and HBOMax Whoo! It has been a busy week! Halloween doth approacheth, my friends, and as far as I’m concerned, the holiday started Monday ... meaning that once I post this pretty little article, it’s nothing but movies and streaming all kinds of creepy content for this nerd. It makes me giggle to flinch in fear, and when you’re with laughin' with your BFF, that’s a good time. As suspected, there’s no shortage of content to stream this week up through Halloween, so buckle up and settle in with your candy buckets, my friends; it’s gonna be a long one. NETFLIX Fortune Feimster: Good Fortune – If you ever watched The Mindy Project or Office Christmas Party , chances are you know who Fortune is—if not by name, at least by face. Homegirl is one hilarious writer, actor, and stand-up comedian. Proving you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, she returns to Netflix with her second comedy special, after Sweet & Salty , which if you haven’t seen and you're lookin' to laugh, you totally should. This time she’s rapping about a marriage proposal gone wrong, recess in the 80s, butch women, and one mind-blowing butt massage. Now streaming Fugitive: The Curious Case of Carlos Ghosn – The story of Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn, from his rise as a business mogul to his fall as an international fugitive. Now streaming The Good Nurse – Starring Eddie Redmayne, Jessica Chastain, Kim Dickens ( The Walking Dead ), and Noah Emmerich ( The Americans ), this drama is based on the 2013 true-crime book of the same name by Charles Graeber about serial killer Charles Cullen, and the nurse who helped bring him down. Mostly. Now streaming Earthstorm – Season 1 is full of storm chasers, survivors, and first responders recounting their harrowing experiences with volcanoes, tornadoes, hurricanes, and earthquakes. My fascination with this part of nature begins and ends right on my couch. Been through enough hurricanes, I’ll pass on ridin' out the others if I can help it. Now streaming Wendell & Wild – Favorite comedy duo Keegan Michael Key and Jordan Peele are back in this stop-motion horror comedy as Wendell & Wild, two devious demon brothers who face their nun arch enemy (Angela Bassett), notorious for expelling demons. Also features characters by Ving Rhames, and James Hong. Out Friday, Oct. 28 * Other newly released titles : Family Reunion Part 5, Romantic Killer, Daniel Spellbound, Dubai Bling Series. * Coming October 28 : All Quiet on the Western Front, The Bastard Son & The Devil Himself, Big Mouth Season 6, Drink Masters, I Am A Stalker, If Only, My Encounter with Evil, Wild is the Wind *Coming October 29 : Deadwind Season 3 HULU American Horror Story – Season 11 dropped weeks ago, but that’s not going to stop me from telling you to watch it. Whereas last season was a more of a double feature with “Red Tide” and “Death Valley,” season 11 is one story taking place in two different timelines, with a whole new cast of characters. Joe Mantello ( The Watcher ), Zachary Quinto ( NOS4A2 ), Billie Lourd ( Booksmart ), and Patti Lupone ( Penny Dreadful ) lead a cast that find themselves in NYC in the 1980s, and there’s a serial killer running around targeting gay men. AHS promises, “the deadliest year” and “a season like no other.” You be the judge. New episodes streaming Thursdays on FX on Hulu The Patient – If you haven’t been watching this all along, you should've. Steve Carrell heartfully stars as a psychotherapist kidnapped by a patient (Brendan Gleeson, Ex Machina ), who also happens to be a serial killer. Then, he's held prisoner, chained to a bed in his client's living room. WATCH. THIS. SERIES. Now streaming PRIME Downton Abbey: A New Era – The Crawley family goes on a grand journey to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the dowager countess’s newly inherited villa. Starring Allen Leech, Elizabeth McGovern, Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, and Michelle Dockery. Available Friday, October 28 APPLE TV The only new title dropping this weekend on Apple TV is Louis Armstrong’s Black and Blues , a documentary offering an intimate and revealing look at the world-changing musician, presented through a lens of archival footage and never-before-heard home recordings and personal conversations. What a wonderful world indeed, Mr. Armstrong. Streaming Friday, October 28 HBOMax Mixed with the one new series dropping this weekend are a couple you might’ve missed that are Halloween-atmosphere appropriate and absolutely worth a watch. Just remember: thou shalt not judge a series ‘til thou sees it! Barbarian – The smash hit horror movie is finally streaming. A young woman (Georgina Campbell, Suspicion ) arrives at her rental home late at night and finds a lot more to fear than just an unexpected house guest (Bill Skarsgård, It: Chapter Two ). Also stars the endearingly funny Justin Long. Now streaming The White Lotus – Season 2 is back with a brand new star-studded cast. F. Murray Abraham ( Mythic Quest ), Connie Britton ( Friday Night Lights ), Steve Zahn (who needs no intro), and Jennifer Coolidge (same, but most famously Legally Blonde ) lead a cast of characters at an exclusive Sicilian resort and, similar to the first season, follows the exploits of guests and employees over the span of a week. Streaming Sunday, October 30 Tokyo Vice – Ansel Elgort ( Baby Driver ) is Jake Adelstein, an American-turned-Japanese journalist who plugs into the Tokyo Vice police squad and descends into the neon underbelly of Tokyo. This one sucked me in. Also stars Ken Watanabe ( The Last Samurai ) and Rachel Keller ( Legion ). Season 1 now streaming Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin – Starring a bunch of grown-up former Nickelodeon stars (hey, it’s rated MA and I said grown up ), this slasher teen/young adult series follows a desperate group of high schoolers being tormented by an unknown assailant. It’s pretty good. Even my husband watched it. But he’s a nerd like me, and we’ll watch just about anything. And that’s all the more reason you should just take my word that it’s worth a watch over this Halloween weekend. I bet you'll get sucked in just like we did! Season 1 now streaming Also released this week: A Tree of Life: The Pittsburgh Synagogue Shooting and The Lost Kitchen, Season 3 Go watch and devour the sweets, my sweets! Stay tuned for tomorrow's top 10 horror movie releases this Halloween week/end! 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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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

Live on Long Island is electrifying from start to finish, immersing you in Bad Mary’s vibrant live sound. < Back Music Reviews by Nick: Live on Long Island by Bad Mary Nick Cline Jul 17, 2025 Share Live on Long Island is electrifying from start to finish, immersing you in Bad Mary’s vibrant live sound. Bad Mary is a glam-punk quartet based in New York , known for their electrifying and raw sound. The power emanating from their amps and vocals is both impressive and unforgettable. With a mission to infuse high energy into their live performances, which they consider the core of their sound and presence, they were inspired to create a live album. This decision led to their latest release, Live on Long Island . Released July 15, 2025 Live on Long Island is electrifying from start to finish, immersing you in their vibrant live sound. You can feel the energy, emotion, and raw power of their music and personality with each passing second. The beautiful chaos that punk bands bring to their sonic landscapes, both live and in the studio, is captured excellently in this album. Credit: Kyoko Obayashi Creating a truly captivating experience, from live recording to streaming, can be daunting—a challenge many bands, regardless of popularity, struggle with. However, the fascinating aspect of Bad Mary is that this live album flows seamlessly, resembling a true live performance. There’s no unnecessary banter or forced energy; instead, it features a continuous energy that feels authentic. My favorite aspect of this album is its seamless flow within each track, which is particularly significant to me. 'Marz Attaqx' from Live in Long Island by Bad Mary I could go on about the raw energy the album exudes, but I think it’s better to elaborate on my thoughts. The album opens with ' Soapbox .' The first sound you hear is the feedback from the guitars, a perfect method for building suspense without uttering a single word. This technique, often used in punk, hard rock, and other high-energy genres, creates dissonance and anticipation in a live setting. The feedback transitions into the band crashing into the song, delivering an immediate burst of raw power and energy. The faint whispers of the crowd are woven into the recording, becoming part of the song’s identity, felt but somewhat lost amidst the wailing guitars, pounding rhythms, and screeching vocals. This blend is both beautiful and chaotic. As the album progresses, each track twists and turns, with the energy building and breathing like a living entity. This dynamic is the highlight for me when listening to the album. 'The Itch' from Live in Long Island by Bad Mary The live mixing is superb , featuring numerous intense moments that enhance the overall sound without detracting from it. The clarity of the music, vocals, and banter is impressive; the album knows precisely what it wants to be. Credit: Eric Sandstrom Photography What I admire most about the band and the album is the flow and presence that captures the punk energy and vibe of New York. Bad Mary is reminiscent of iconic bands of the past, and their ability to control the landscapes of their live shows translates exceptionally well to recording and streaming. I highly recommend this album to anyone looking to add high-energy glam-punk to their playlist. The album is a cohesive entity—a living, breathing force. Go stream it now. To learn more about Bad Mary: Website: Bad Mary | The Official site of Bad Mary Facebook: Facebook Instagram: Bad Mary - NY Glam Punk (@badmaryband) • Instagram photos and videos YouTube: Bad Mary - YouTube Spotify: Bad Mary | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Bad Mary - Apple Music 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

Miles Nxbxdy pushes the boundaries of hip-hop by challenging expectations and broadening horizons. < Back Miles Nxbxdy: Revolutionizing Hip-Hop Nicole Brice Nov 13, 2023 Share Miles Nxbxdy pushes the boundaries of hip-hop by challenging expectations and broadening horizons. In the bustling world of hip-hop where trends come and go, there are a few artists who stand out with their unique style and unwavering authenticity. One such artist with introspective lyrics set to unconventional beats is delivering the goods by experimenting with the textures most often found in post-punk and industrial music. His name is Miles Nxbxdy. Hailing from New Jersey, born and raised in the heart of the urban landscape, Miles Nxbxdy’s career began in 2017 but did not start to take off until 2018. After meeting producer Jason Freeze in Asbury Park in 2018 at a show, the two began to embark on a working partnership that is still going strong to this day. Credit: YouTube From an early age, Miles was exposed to a rich musical tapestry, incorporating everything from gritty sounds to modern and experimental vibes. Miles weaves narratives with detail and emotional depth and is proving he is unafraid to tackle controversial topics and explore society’s underbelly. Plain and simple, Nxbxdy is an artist unafraid to speak the truth. He’s raw, he’s edgy, he’s honest … and he explores the darkness with carefully orchestrated songs that explore the full depth of human emotions. If I had to describe his music, I would have to categorize it as Art Rap. It does not sound like anything I have ever heard, and it is truly challenging expectations and broadening the horizons of hip-hop by bringing such a fresh perspective to the game. Credit: Jeff Crespi I reached out to Miles recently so I could learn more about his songwriting, his background, and future projects. I was able to chat not only with Miles but also with his producer and partner-in-crime, Jason Freeze, where we discussed the music we love, the music we hate, and the state of the industry in general, as well as what makes up the music of Miles Nxbxdy. With numerous collabs under his belt since 2018, including the likes of Desperry, Gnarly Nonsense of OFFTOPKILLS, and Drew the Recluse & h e a l (Craig Xen & Rico Nasty), Nxbxdy has shown he is unafraid to explore new horizons and the dark and intrapersonal side of rap, and it is refreshing. Take a moment to learn a little more about this artist who is pushing boundaries, then be sure to check out his discography. MaM : I’ve been diving into all your music, and you have released quite a bit since 2017. Tell us a little more about your various projects and what initially led you to making music? MN : It was about 2018 when I started taking music seriously. I have always had a background in it since I play four instruments, but in 2017 I released ‘Don’t 4get to Smile … Bitch’ and then in 2018 I released my album, ‘Free Bird for the Free World’ and that led into ‘Beautiful Scumbags’. When COVID-19 happened, I had to take a pause, but 2018 was when I truly started. I’m sort of a late bloomer. Released September 13, 2019 MaM : Writing lyrics just to have them—did you ever think you would do anything with them? MN : No, not really. … I didn’t take it seriously. When I released ‘Free Bird for the Free World’ was when I started taking it seriously because I was approached after the release by a couple of noteworthy people who liked my music, and their response was positive. I didn’t think it was that good, but when that happened, I thought, ‘Oh! I have talent!’ (laughter) JF : Miles and I have this conversation a lot and I think music is more of a necessity for both of us. It would be harder to stop making music than it is to just make it. Even on days off, when I tell myself I’m going to chill, I end up making a beat. MaM : I think all creative types are like that. We must be constantly creating. Do you have any other hobbies or interests outside of music? MN : I have too many interests and hobbies. (laughter) MN : I’m into anime, manga, comics, and fashion. The cost of fashion is a little much, but I’m big into movies, too. I’ll watch a French film, a Japanese one, a Kai film … it all just depends. Released October 19, 2018 MaM : My husband likes anime, too. Musically, what are your favorite genres and who would you say has been your biggest influence musically? MN : Man, oh, that is a hard question. Right now, I’m really into 2000’s alt-rock. I like post-punk. I like jazz and classical, too. The only thing I’m not really into is opera and modern country. I’d say everything is worth a listen, though. MaM : So, how would you describe the type of music you make? You have such a unique sound. What is your creative process like? Do you write to the beat or do the lyrics come first? MN : We’ve been working a lot the last few years. We have two full albums being mixed right now. Since ‘Beautiful Scumbags’ and ‘Free Bird [for the Free World]’, the music has become more electronic. JF : It has developed more since ‘Beautiful Scumbags’ for sure, and we both have become better at the craft. MN : I generally tell people I make post-rap, though, because it has so many layers. You know when The Clash made ‘London Calling’? That album is considered punk, but some consider it post-punk because of all the elements to it. My music now has so many elements from other forms and styles that I don’t want to call it rap or punk rap or experimental rap because it’s more specific than experimental rap but not as noisy as industrial rap. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : I’ll agree with post-rap. I think that’s an accurate way to describe it. With most rap, you can always find a tinge of influence to categorize it, but with you, I just can’t. MN : That was the goal. In 2017, I went into a deep music hole where I got big into Joy Division, Maggot Brain, Janis Joplin, Jane Doe … an amalgamation of all these eclectic artists, but I didn’t want to make their music. I wanted to take elements from all of that. Because my music is so unique, it makes it difficult to push it. JF : Miles will come in with an idea and it always ends up somewhere else. The beat usually comes first, but sometimes he’ll come in with lyric ideas as a starting point. MN : The rule we follow is, ‘Don’t overthink it.’ If we overthink it, it becomes not good every time. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : I can agree with that. Do you have plans to collaborate with any specific artists in the future, and if so, who? MN : It’s funny that you ask that. Right now, I’m working on two albums with these artists I am friends with. One is named Braciola and the other is named Gnarly Nonsense. They are both going to be on the upcoming albums. As far as famous artists are concerned, I would love to work with Big K.R.I.T. and Trent Reznor. Trent and Death Grips are the dream. They are both active still, so we’ll see what happens. MaM : Never say never! It could happen! I could see you guys opening for Nine Inch Nails. Let’s manifest that. (laughter) MN : That would be sick. I would also like to work with Tyler, the Creator. Most of the mainstream artists I have no interest in working with. MaM : What is one message you would like to convey with your music? MN : It’s okay to feel. A lot of my music is very emotional and dark. I scream for those who can’t. The whole idea behind Miles Nxbxdy is a play on a John Doe as anybody. I’m Miles Nxbxdy, so in that way, I’m a nobody, but I’ll be that somebody for you. My newer music that isn’t out yet is a long letter to my adolescent self and my childhood self. This is the music we could have used to work through emotions that we didn’t understand [growing up]. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : So, when can we expect the new music to drop? MN : That’s a good question. Everything you’ve heard so far is good, but it’s more of a 4 [on a scale of 1-10] and this new stuff is more like a 9. We found someone in Brooklyn to mix it all and Jason found someone to master it. The final vocal mixing was recently, and honestly, we’ve been sitting on this material for some time. JF : We’re aiming to have the music done by the end of the year, but then we must start the process of how it is going to be released. MN : Maybe mid to late January? I’m not sure. 2024 definitely. JF : We don’t want to just put it out there and have nothing happen. We want to find the best way to distribute it. Credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : What does the future hold, you think? Where do you see yourself in the next five years? MN : I’m gonna be big in Japan collecting all the Manga. (laughter) MN : I legitimately believe we’re going to be big in Europe. The landscape of music is very different. I feel they have a different appreciation for music than Americans. It’s more celebrated there and here it’s more monetized. I truly feel Europe will embrace what we are doing first. With a discography spanning from 2017-2021, including numerous releases and with two more currently on the way, Miles Nxbxdy is undoubtedly an artist worth watching in the contemporary hip-hop scene. With his unparalleled authenticity, he continues to push the boundaries of the genre and undoubtedly will inspire other artists to embrace their true selves and use music as a catalyst for change. To experience Miles Nxbxdy, hit one of the links below and be sure to give him a follow on social media. Soundcloud : Stream M I L E S NxBxDY music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloud Apple Music : ‎Miles Nxbxdy - Apple Music Instagram : Miles Nxbxdy (@miles_nxbxdy) • Instagram photos and videos Spotify : Miles Nxbxdy | Spotify Amazon Music : Miles Nxbxdy on Amazon Music YouTube : Miles Nxbxdy - YouTube *cover photo courtesy of 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 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

Brett Carlisle is an award-winning songwriter paving his way with family, faith, and a new record. < Back Off the Charts: Brett Carlisle Bud Gambrell Apr 30, 2025 Share Brett Carlisle is an award-winning songwriter paving his way with family, faith, and a new record. Hello everyone! Welcome back! I'm thrilled you’re here and taking the time to join us. Your support means a lot, and I appreciate each and every one of you! This local songwriter first contacted me in September 2024 . He asked if I would be interested in his story. I told him that I was, and we found a local show that I could attend and conduct an interview. That local show happened to be The Alabama Smoke Show Unplugged , a songwriter showcase scheduled for September 17, 2024 . As life sometimes happens, it stepped up and cancelled my plans to attend. How about that. Fast forward to early 2025 . I ran into Brett at the Otis Walker show at Tangled Strings Studio , and I asked him if he might still be interested in an interview. Brett was still very interested. I was very close to sincerely apologizing for my cancellation last September, but as I looked closer at Brett's activities, it was almost a stroke of fate that the interview was happening now. There has been a lot going on within his musical world. By the way, I still apologized. Credit: Bud Gambrell Photography Brett informed me of a few shows that he had coming up. If you know me, you already know that when I saw he was playing at the new Rocket City Honky Tonk that is the one I picked. The venue is run by my old friend Shane Bickel . Shane and I once saw each other often when he worked at Side Tracks Music Hall . I pulled Brett aside to have a quick talk. We stepped out to the outside bar to hear each other and not compete for the juke box playing some old school country. It was a good thing the outside bar was covered, as it was a stormy evening in Huntsville . Credit: Bud Gambrell Photography The following is part of the conversation. We laughed a lot. This was a very relaxed but serious conversation. Check it out. OTC : Tell me about Brett Carlisle. Where are you from? Are you married? Do you have any children? BC : Well, I’m Brett Carlisle . I'm married. We have five children. Let me explain that first. We have two boys whom we adopted. They were her brother's kids. He passed away. We also have 3 girls—two of our own and one from my previous marriage. I was born and raised in Hazel Green, AL . We moved to Athens when we got married. OTC : Born in the downtown Hazel Green Memorial Hospital, huh. BC : (laughs) Yessir! If you’re from North Alabama , you get the joke here. Hazel Green is a small town that relies on Huntsville for hospital care. Hazel Green may not have had an urgent care facility back then. OTC : I understand that country music wasn't your first musical calling. BC : Country music was not my first music calling. Country music came, I guess, out of my rebellious side. I was more of a Christian artist at the beginning. I wanted to be like my dad growing up. I wanted to do Gospel music . Now and then, some of my stuff kind of flares into going on the side of Jesus . I was bringing it back to him, but I found my way. So it went from Gospel to Contemporary Christian to Country . Credit: Facebook OTC : You were the opening act when we met at the Otis Walker show over at Tangled Strings Studio. Now you're on your own tonight. Is there any difference in how you would approach being an opener compared to how you would approach this one? BC : The Tangled String Studios show was a storytellers' type show, and we were telling about the songs we wrote. Here at Rocket City Honky Tonk , great venue, by the way, if you haven't been here. This will be playing covers back-to-back, to back-to-back, trying to get the crowd involved, you know, playing stuff, they know. I'll throw in an original here and there, but that's the difference between the venue, where they're focused on you, and the venue where they're not focused on you. You’re just there for entertainment. Credit: Bud Gambrell Photography OTC: Is there anything you do while you're on stage doing covers to make that connection with the audience? BC : Definitely! I feel that you have to sing the songs so that they can sing something back. ‘ Dixieland Delight ’ is a big one! It's always been a big one. ‘ Sweet Caroline ’ is another song like that. ‘ Family Tradition ’ is another big one; we always like to play the songs that everybody knows. To get them going with you. And once you sing an original, they're paying a little more attention, bringing the attention to your music. Credit: Bud Gambrell Photography OTC : As I was doing my homework on you, I noticed that you promote not only your music on your social page but also other musicians. BC : Yes, sir. I feel it's important to support each other in this business. We can't get anywhere without support. And I think it's very, very, very important to help other artists as well as promote yourself. And I think that's the way we grow. I think that's how we grow as artists. And grow as people as well. OTC : While reviewing your social media, I saw a few EPK pictures of you with a busted guitar. There has to be a story there. BC : So, we found this guitar at a thrift store. It cost $6. And I thought, man, this would be fun to redo. It would be a fun project for me to build this guitar from scratch, so I intend to do that. And then my wife suggested that we take some pictures. And I was like, OK. She said, I think you should do a busted guitar picture. And I was like, with what guitar? And she suggested, of course, the one we bought for $6. I was like, OK, yeah, I'm down with it. We want to take more pictures now, so I need to find another $6 guitar. (laughter) Credit: Facebook OTC : You traveled around and played a lot of places all over the southeast. How do you maintain your work-life balance while you're on the road? BC : The biggest thing I have in my corner is a family that supports me. And they will go wherever it's family friendly. If I can travel somewhere like Gatlinburg or I want them to come with me. I want them to be there and experience it with me. Around here, there aren't a lot of places they can get in, but being close to home, it's OK. But as far as work goes, I'm very fortunate to have a job where I go in at 4:00 in the morning and get off around 11:30 to 12:00 noon. So, it gives me time with my family, and then I hit the road to do a show later that evening. Credit: Bud Gambrell Photography OTC : The first time we spoke was in September of last year. You reached out and wanted to sit down and talk, and for me, life happened. I couldn’t make it happen then. I'm sorry that didn't happen. At this point, I'm kind of grateful it didn’t. Because there's a lot to talk about. Have you ever heard of BAM Records ? BC : I have heard of BAM Records. I'm signed by them. I signed a recording contract with them two months ago. Credit: Facebook OTC : Now, there had to be a phone call or a conversation that BAM Records wanted to sign you. Tell me about this. This conversation had to be just amazing. BC : So, it wasn't a phone call. I played at a place called the Tennessean Truck and Travel Stop . There was a guy named Bobby Spivey there. Bobby wore a blue blazer and a ball cap. It just said the word MUSIC on it. After I completed my first set, he sat down with me and my wife, and he said, 'Hey man, I want to talk to you a little bit about what I do, he said. I'm a producer. I have my own label. I have my studio,’ he said. ‘I’d like to invite you to come and record any time for free, and I’d also like to talk to you about possibly signing a recording contract with me.’ And at the time, he'd been sipping on a little something. I didn't know if he was serious or not. So, it was kind of up in the air. I was thinking about it all night after that. We met the next day, Sunday after church, and he actually sat down with me and offered me the deal, the contract, and I signed it probably two weeks later. OTC : And you haven't stopped smiling since. BC : (laughs) It's hard to believe. It hasn’t hit me yet. I'm not sure of the exact release date yet, but by next Saturday , everything's done with the album, and I think that's when it will hit. When we do that whole album release party and all that, all the pre-sale stuff, I think that's when it will hit me! OTC : That's another thing that happened, you know, since we talked back in September. You've got the record deal. You've been in the studio. Tell me about the studio experience. Was this your first time in the studio? BC : My first time in a studio was at Silver Fox Sound with Robert Fox . Robert recorded three of my songs and produced some. What a great guy! He most definitely makes you feel at home when you're there. But this experience was very different because not only did I sing and play simultaneously, but I also had my drummer, Richard Best , playing while I was playing and singing. So it was like a live session. It's been different than my first experience recording the music and then going back and singing over the track. OTC : You mentioned something about a possible showcase coming up to accompany the new album. BC : In the fall, they're discussing a showcase at the amphitheater in Decatur with some of my label mates and me. I don't know who that's going to be yet. They have not conveyed all the information yet. They're still working on many details, but I'm hoping we pull that together and get it going. OTC : While I was looking at your social media page, I saw a post that you got a possible CMA Fest invite. BC : My label has contacted CMA Fest and was trying to work on getting me in there for May 3rd . I don't know if it's going to happen or not. I have not been contacted. I've not been told anything, just the possibility of it happening. It's just crazy to me! Credit: Facebook OTC: So, I'm hearing a suitcase at home packed in case they call, so you can leave now, right? BC : Yeah, I'm ready to go if they call me! Absolutely! Since this interview, the CMA Fest has become a reality. Brett received word that he will play during the CMA Fest on June 8, 2025 , at Bootleggers on Broadway from 6-9 pm. That’s excellent news, Brett! Congratulations! If you make it to the CMA Fest , stop by and check him out! Also, since this interview, I spoke with Brett , who informed me that a music video is in the making. Be sure to be on the lookout for that. OTC : Let's talk hardware and some things that have happened since we spoke in September. You won the 2024 Alabama Music Association Vocalist of the Year and the 2024 Alabama Music Association 2024 Male Entertainer of the Year. It has to be a little overwhelming that all these things are happening. BC : It is, but I try not to take anything for granted. I don't want to get an ego over it. I don't want to get a big head about it. It's a big honor. Big, big honor! And of course, that took me to nationals, where I went out and played the Country Tonight Theater in Pigeon Forge. OTC : Now there's another one, the NACMAI, that is a mouthful. You won Rising Vocalist of the Year and Rising Entertainer of the Year. That’s two more pretty big honors there. BC : Yes, it is! That's nationwide and for the North American Country Music Association International . They've been doing this every year, and they have a Hall of Fame show on Saturday Night when you're there. Randy Travis was inducted last year. He was there when we were there. Credit: Facebook OTC : So, this last six months or even the last year has been a whirlwind with a lot happening. The record deal, the album, the four awards. With all that in mind, how do you define success as an artist at this point? BC : One song at a time. I try to take it one song at a time. I want my music to be felt and not just to be heard. I define success as wherever I go, whenever I go to a bar, whenever I go to a restaurant to play, somebody requests one of my songs. I think that's the most significant sign of success to me. Credit: Facebook OTC : Two-part question. What inspired you to start writing songs? And is there any particular event or experience that led you to pursue songwriting? BC : There definitely is. When I was 21, I was married, divorced, and had a child. In the same year, my ex-wife left and took my daughter with her. I didn't see her for six months. That propelled me to write my first and what I consider my best song, ' Barbie Car ', which is one of the songs Mr. Fox produced for me. I was not a very good kid. I was not a very good high school student. I wasn't a perfect teenager or young adult, period. So, I did a lot of things, made a lot of stupid mistakes, and all of that culminates in many of the songs I write. OTC : What values and beliefs do you hold that are reflected in your songwriting, and how do those values inspire and guide you through your creative process? BC : I want to keep Christ strong in everything I do. I do, and I want people to hear the pain I went through in these songs. But I also want them to see the pain I’ve endured with my faith in Jesus. Credit: Facebook OTC : What lessons have you learned through your songwriting, and how have those lessons shaped your perspective and creative process? BC : I've learned I can't write a song in five minutes. (laughter) I always thought it was going to be easier and getting stuck on one song for two months kind of sucks. But it's made me patient. It's made me think a lot more, and I've been very grateful for that. I'm not a patient person by any means. Credit: Facebook OTC : What do you feel is the hardest part of songwriting? BC : Writer's block. Thinking about the following line. I have this notebook of songs that I don't know where to go with. So, I have probably 10-12 songs that are just sitting there. OTC : Sounds like you need a collaborator. BC : (laughs) I do. I would love to have somebody to write with. I wrote some with Tim Cannon. He's amazing! I've also had some help from Brad Thomas with some guitar parts, and he's also a great guy. As for sitting down face to face with someone and co-writing a song, I have not done that, and that's something that one of these days I will be doing very soon. OTC : Is there a favorite time of day that you find is better for songwriting or a particular setting that gets you in the flow? BC : I write songs in my bathroom. Not sitting on the toilet or anything like that. Yeah, on the edge of the bathtub after work. A lot of times, I'll come up with ideas and lines for songs while I'm at work. I'll be singing them in my head. I'll record something on my phone. When I get home, there's nobody there. The kids are still at school. My wife is still at work, and I will go into the bathroom, sit, and start playing what I hear in my head. Right around 1:00 until 2:00. It's the best time for me to write a song. OTC : While it’s nice and quiet? BC : Yes! Credit: Facebook OTC : What are your plans for the future, Brett? BC : I hope and pray that one day I'll be able to pursue a full-time music career. Right now, that's not feasible, but I plan to continue to push toward that goal and that dream. OTC : Who are your favorite songwriters? BC : My first favorite is a guy who got me into the genre that I am in. I'm a Southern Americana writer, and Drake White is probably my most significant influence on songwriting. He's a fantastic songwriter, and he is so underrated. So many people have no clue who he is. OTC : He is also an Alabama boy. BC : Yes, he is an Alabama boy. Another amazing songwriter is the Red Clay Strays and The Alabama Boys . OTC : I can relate to that. Do you have any last words that you want to add for any of your current fans and any future fans? BC : Chase your dreams! Do what you love to do. Do what you feel in your heart that you need to be doing because it will work out. If you believe in it enough, it's going to work out. With that closing remark, I’ll get out of here. I don’t have any more inspiring advice to offer beyond that. Until next time, Keep your diamond down in the groove! Where to find Bud: Email: the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com Website: https://bgambrellphotography.com Amazon: https://a.co/d/1CLA9Tz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bud.gambrell My new book: Bud Gambrell Photography by Bud Gambrell | Blurb Books Where to find Brett: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Brett-Carlisle-Music/100087867837794/ www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Got something for Bud to check out? Reach him at the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Suckling Review Ezekiel Kincaid Share Mar 17, 2023 This B-horror movie is so bad, it's B-movie gold There are bad horror movies, and then there are so-bad-they’re-good horror movies. Ah, yes, the never-ending cesspool of B-horror movies. Some of us love them, and some of us hate them. And if you're in the vein of loving them, there are plenty for that. These days, there are so many B-movies out ther, one can get lost in the movie void when trying to figure out which ones are worth watching and which ones are worth skipping. But alas, have no fear, Zeke is here! I’m gonna wade through the B-movie junkyard so you don’t have to. Equipped with my high tolerance for bad acting, stupid plots, and excessive gore, I’m the perfect man for the job. Even my editor says so. This week we are kicking things off with an all-time favorite of mine and my fiancée’s called The Suckling. Directed by Francis Teri ( Flesh Eating Mothers , 1989—another great B-movie), this gem hit the horror scene on September 24th, 1990. The movie stars people you’ve probably never heard of as well: Geral Preger, Marie Michaels, Lisa Petruno, and Janet Sovey … anyone? ANYONE? Yeah, I didn’t think so. One of the things that makes this movie so great is that it absolutely takes itself seriously. In fact, in the opening credits, the director tries to make us think this is based on true events. What are those events and what is the plot of this movie? I’m glad you asked. Brace yourselves. Also known as Sewage Baby , the story follows a young couple in need of an abortion. The girl isn’t so sure about it but the boyfriend? He’s all in. from IMDB stills However, because of the taboo surrounding abortion, they are looking to try and take care of things in a discrete and cheap manner. And man, do they ever … they strike gold! The couple finds a brothel with a lady named Big Mamma, who happens to take care of such kind of needs. And, oh man, let me just tell you that the opening scenes taking place in this brothel are, well, absolutely trashy, completely offensive, and downright hilarious. Big Mamma, from IMDB stills The couple decides to go through with the abortion, and this is where things get loco. The fetus terminated in the operation is the largest, nastiest amalgamation of flesh imaginable. Then, like every good B-movie, toxic waste gets involved (think Toxic Avenger meets aborted baby). The dead fetus gets chunked down the sewer. which happens to be full of some sort of toxic waste. The waste mixes with the fetus, brings it back to life, and transforms it into this mutant-like creature that grows at an exponential rate. The beast is actually pretty cool-looking, despite the low budget. It has these razor-sharp teeth reminiscent of the creatures in Feast , along with flesh-serrating claws, as well as a special skill of attacking and killing people with its umbilical cord. There are also some great, low-budget kills with blood that looks like it was watered down to make it go farther, but it works. The Suckling, from IMDB stills To make things more interesting, the toxic fetus has a weird superpower. It is somehow able to wrap the entire outside of the building with a supermassive placenta. This traps everyone inside the brothel, allowing them to get picked off one by one. And don’t expect to care about any of the characters. They are all stupid, one-sided, and there just to be killed. Yes, this movie is every bit as crazy as it sounds—there’s even a wire hanger scene! Yikes. So, gather your Pro-Life and Pro-Choice friends for a watch party, and let the insanity begin! Zeke gives this one 5 out of 5 toxic fetuses. You can find The Suckling streaming on Tubi and Amazon Prime. 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 . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Howling: New Moon Rising Ezekiel Kincaid Share Jul 26, 2023 A werewolf movie so bad, you have to see it to believe it Gather ‘round, aspiring movie directors and scriptwriters! It’s time for you to take notes on how to successfully kill a franchise in this edition of What the Hell Did I Just Watch . I want y’all to get acquainted with The Howling: New Moon Rising , also released as Howling: New Moon Rising and Howling VII: Mystery Woman . Never heard of it? Good! Let me remedy that for you. For some unknown reason, my high school self bought this movie years ago on VHS. I was going through my collection the other day when I saw it and said, “Hmm, I don’t remember ever watching this one.” So, I popped it into the VCR and hit “Play” … then the suppressed memories came flooding back. Twenty minutes in, I remembered why I’d suppressed them in the first place. Now, I might be wrong, but I have a conspiracy theory as to why this movie sucks so badly. I think there was a challenge made, or a wager, where someone said, “Hey, I bet no one out there can make The Howling sequels even worse.” Directors Clive Turner and Roger Nall heard about the challenge and said, “Here, hold our beers.” Don’t believe me? Well, that’s my theory and I’m sticking to it. I just don’t think it is possible to make a movie this bad unless there is some intentionality behind it. Surely these filmmakers couldn’t have been taking this movie seriously, could they? Or maybe they were … and that thought is scarier than anything in this low budget sewerfest. Let’s get the technical stuff out of the way first. The film is the seventh in the series and is a direct-to-video movie made in 1995—four years after the previous entry, The Howling VI: The Freaks . Turner and Nall should have ended the torture and stopped there, but they couldn’t leave well enough alone. Neither had ever directed a movie before, and they both made their debut with The Howling VII: New Moon Rising . The plot is simple: A lone, red-haired drifter from Australia strolls in and settles in a small town. When he does, strange murders begin to happen, all of which trace back to him. Our lone cowboy, Ted Smith, is played by none other than Clive Turner himself, who also stars in The Howling V: The Rebirth . Clive Turner as Ted Smith All the other (and I use the term loosely) actors in this movie go by their real-life first names, and the only recognizable face is Mary Lou ( Elizabeth Shé ), who was the main character in The Howling V and The Howling VI . Elizabeth Shé as Mary Lou She has some scenes in The Howling: New Moon Rising that end up linking all three sequels together. And that is the only redeemable thing in this movie. To start off, there’s lots of line dancing. Most of the movie is set in a country western bar. All the people in this town do all day is drink beer and line dance. At first, I thought, “Okay, cool, a line-dancing scene,” thinking it was just one. Yet there continues to be scene after scene after scene of pointless line dancing that adds nothing to the story. I think ole Turner and Nall were just proud of everyone’s skill and wanted to show it off a hundred times. That’s the only thing that makes sense in my mind as to why there is so much of it in the movie. And gore? Those visceral kills we all love to see in werewolf movies? There are none. None! You never get to see the werewolf kill anyone. You see TWO dead bodies the entire movie, and it's after the fact. Even then, all the dead bodies have on them are a few gashes. You never get the satisfaction of seeing a bloody kill, dismemberment, decapitation, or disembowelment. The only cool scenes are the flashbacks from the previous installments. Now, let’s talk werewolf transformations . Maybe they were saving the big payoff for this? That’s what I was hoping anyway. If that’s what you’re hoping, too, prepare to be disappointed. The transformation scene is a huge letdown. All we see are some cheap camera tricks on whatever camcorder they filmed the movie and then boom, a person dressed in a rubber werewolf mask shows up on screen. You’re in luck here, because in place of a movie trailer, all that seem to exist online are various scenes from the film, and it just so happens the werewolf transformation is one of them. So, for your viewing pleasure … Jump back to 2021 for a second. Did you happen to see Werewolves Within —the who-done-it werewolf movie? If not, you can find it on Apple TV, Vudu, Roku, Prime Video, Hulu, and Max. The Howling: New Moon Rising tries to do some clever plot twists to keep you guessing who the real werewolf is, like Werewolves Within did, but it fails miserably. It is so outlandish, stupid, and confusing at times, and weird plot shit just keeps coming out of left field. I wish I could say, “Great writing job, fellas!” but I can’t. Should you watch this movie? Yes, you should. Why? Because it is THAT BAD and you have to see it to believe it. Besides, if I had to sit through it, so should you. Misery loves company. The Howling: New Moon Rising got a whopping 1.8/10 stars on IMDb. Me? I give this movie one 1 of 5 drunken line dancers. You can find The Howling: New Moon Rising streaming on Amazon Prime, Screambox, Freevee, and Tubi. You’re welcome. 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 . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

< Back Dear God No!: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Ezekiel Kincaid Share Sep 25, 2023 Dear God No! nails it and takes us back to the days of true grindhouse and 70’s exploitation. Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Kool-Aid pitchers full of fake blood Welcome back, boys and girls, to another column from your dear ole Uncle Zeke. This is the place where I subject myself to the absolute worst cinema has to offer, and this week’s review is no different. Today, I want to talk to you about a little action-horror gem from 2011 called Dear God No!. There are three things you need to know about Dear God No! First, it's one of those movies that is so bad, it’s good. Second, don’t expect an intricate plot or for things to make sense; they won’t. I review B movies, remember? And third, Dear God No! is a grindhouse/exploitation film extraordinaire . A few words of caution for sensitive viewers, though: While the violence is totally unrealistic, it is rather brutal and not for everyone . Expect some nudity and a few rape scenes–-one of which involves a pregnant lady. I’ll spare any details, but I digress. Let’s kick this off by talking about Dear God No ’s extremely complicated plot. Basically, what we have is a creature feature, biker gang, and mad scientist movie all rolled into one. A bigfoot-like creature is on the prowl, an unsuspecting biker gang pulls a home invasion on a psychotic, Nazi anthropologist and his family, then all hell breaks loose … and that’s it. That’s the plot in its entirety–-nothing tied together, just random shit going down. I hope you were able to keep up and all this complication isn’t going over your head. This fine piece of filmmaking was directed by James Bickert , whose name should be familiar to all you B-movie enthusiasts. He directed deep, philosophical masterpieces such as Frankenstein Created Bikers (2016) and Amazon Hot Box (2018). Oscar contenders they were not. Dear God No! stars Jett Bryant ( Frankenstein Created Bikers) as Jett, who plays the lead biker. You can tell a lot of effort went into coming up with the character's name. He actually looks a lot like me if I had a longer beard, so right off the bat, Dear God No! automatically gets an extra star for that. Director James Bickert stars in Dear God No! as well, playing the part of Jimbo, aka Rusty Stache, one of the gang members. Our mad Nazi scientist, Dr. Marco, is played by Paul McComiskey, who was also in … anyone want to guess? Yep, Frankenstein Created Bikers . The lead female roles are played by Madeline Brumby ( Frankenstein Created Bikers , where she plays the same character) as Edna Marco, daughter of the psychotic Dr. Marco, then there’s Olivia Croix ( Dear God No! is her only film) starring as the other daughter, Evelyn Marco. Finally, Rachelle Lynn ( The Taken ) plays Laura, our unfortunately assaulted pregnant victim. Let’s now proceed to my thoughts about this film, shall we? If you look up Dear God No! on IMDb, you’ll see that it is rated a whopping 3.9 out of 10 stars. If you read the reviews, you’ll find that they are somewhat divided. Many of the bad reviews chide this film for not being “true grindhouse,” whatever that means. Yet, after viewing this film, I have to sit and wonder, have these folks ever watched a real grindhouse movie at all? Dear God No! NAILS it when it comes to taking us back to the days of true grindhouse and 70’s exploitation movies: bad acting, stupid plot, terrible dialogue, jump cuts, monster suits, and awful special effects. Don’t go into this expecting Machete or Planet Terror . In Dear God No! , the blood is watered down so much that it looks like red Kool-Aid at times, and the blood flow from several of the victims leaks out nowhere near the wound. The film is also shot on 16mm film so all the effects are practical, meaning no CGI in this one, which is a huge plus in my book. What makes Dear God No! different from most of the throwback grindhouse films out there? Simple: It is pure, unadulterated ugliness . It is a bad seed, totally from another planet, and is in a league all by itself. Literally everything about this movie is brutal and mean-spirited and features no redeeming qualities in the characters of the biker gang. They aren’t heroes, and they aren’t villains. They are a category of vileness all to themselves. They are filthy-mouthed murderers and rapists, plain and simple. Don’t believe me? Wait until you see what they do to the pregnant lady. With all this being said, Dear God No! Is the closest thing out there in modern film that truly captures the grindhouse feel of the 1970s. If you’re a connoisseur of trashy B movies, this one is definitely for you. Dear God No! Is currently streaming on Tubi, Vudu, Amazon Prime, The Roku Channel, YouTube Premium, and Apple TV . 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 . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Never give up on your dreams. < Back Rian's Den: A Night to Remember with Sleeping with Sirens Rian Nickels Oct 9, 2024 Share Never give up on your dreams. I typically write concert reviews, but let's be honest – almost everyone knows who Sleeping with Sirens is, and if you don't, all the info about the band members, their accomplishments, and their rise in their career can be found on their Wikipedia page. If you want to know what they sound like LIVE, I promise you that thousands of videos are available. I'm trying to say they are popular in the post-hardcore - emo - alternative scene. At this point, they've transcended generations, rising to fame with Millennials and Gen Z and resurfacing amongst younger folks from Gen Z and older folks from Gen Alpha due to apps like TikTok . So, What I'm here to tell you instead is the story of how Sleeping with Sirens impacted me to find and follow my dreams. It's just me! The year is 2012, and you're an angsty & edgy teenager still trying to become who you are, trying to find your musical taste, your place in the world, and the words for the thousands of intense feelings you have. In your coming-of-age journey, you're sitting in your high school cafeteria. Your friend starts talking about a beautiful man with the voice of an angel, Kellin Quinn – they see the look of confusion on your face and demand that you go home and search for Sleeping with Sirens on YouTube . Upon doing so, you come upon songs that will later be anthems of multiple generations, ' King for A Day ' featuring Pierce the Veil and ' If You Can't Hang '– your friend was right; he's beautiful, and he truly has what I would consider the voice of an angel. With his impressive vocal range, he can go from singing high-pitched notes and lovely harmonies to low screams that add more raw emotion to the songs. While you might have already been into bands like Mayday Parade and Hawthorne Heights , this day will shape your musical taste. It will be the first step to an over a decade-long journey. Credit: Rian Nickels The thing about Sleeping with Sirens is that the lyrics make you feel understood as a teenager and even as an adult. The songs put feelings into words that you didn't have yet. Tracks like " Tally Up, Settle the Score , " a song about being motivated to prove the people who doubted you wrong, encouraged you to push beyond your peers' hate and doubt. Songs like ' Who Are You Now ' ask the question of who you became after the world tried to change you. When you didn't have the words to describe the intense feelings of wanting to love and be loved, you had ' If I'm James Dean & You're Aubrey Hepburn .’ When you were left wondering how a parent could go without caring about you, you had ' A Trophy Father's Trophy Son .' You could scream the lyrics " Is this what you call a family ?" to the rooftops. If you had a partner who cheated on you, you had ' If You Can't Hang ' to sing along to. Sleeping with Sirens has a song for every hardship, every milestone, and every feeling you come across. The year is 2014; you're still just as ever, an angsty and emotional teen. You're going to Warped Tour with your friends to see bands like Attila , Mayday Parade , Breathe Carolina , and Sleeping with Sirens . If you were anything like me, you were a reserved and anxious teen who had never done anything significant. This was the most people you've ever been around and the most bands you'd ever seen on the same day. You notice that other people on Warped Tours are crowd-surfing, so think, "Oh, I could never do that." But when Sleeping with Sirens plays ' Do it Now Remember it Later ,' you think, "Well, why COULDN'T I?", so you find a trusting spot in the crowd and ride the wave of hands launching you forward at your chance to see the band up close if even only for a second. This is only the beginning of you coming out of your shell. It's the first time you genuinely feel accepted and realize other people are just like you. People with neon-colored hair, piercings, dark clothes, but most importantly, people who feel the way you have . A young me crowdsurfing at a Sleeping with Sirens show. In the years after the Warped Tour 2014 , Sleeping with Sirens continued to be there for us, motivate us forward, and ultimately explode in popularity. I didn't find my niche as a photographer until 2023. I had done small concerts before and knew I loved it, but I needed to be more dedicated. I didn't have the drive or the energy to accomplish it. But in 2023, I attended the So What Music Festival . On the first day, Sleeping with Sirens headlined the fest. Throughout the day, I saw various concert photographers running around taking photos, and I couldn't help but be jealous. I wanted to be them SO BAD. Just a pic of me from back in the day. When Sleeping with Sirens went on, they played such a fantastic performance that set in stone for me what I wanted to do with my life - Be a concert photographer. They cemented it even further by telling the crowd, "No dream is too big; you just have to push yourself in the right direction to get there," before telling us how they used to be a bunch of guys with a dream, too. I knew then that I would spend whatever time it took and do whatever it took to achieve my goals. The first step was making a goal. I looked at my partner during SWS and told them with my entire chest, "I promise you I will take their photos next year; I don't know how I'll do it, but I will." This feeling only solidified after seeing bands like Pierce the Veil and Neck Deep – all-time favorites of mine. Upon going home from the fest, I uploaded all the work I deemed worthy from previous music photo gigs to Instagram. By January 2024, my musician friends were starting to hit me up and ask me to photograph their performances. Even though I hadn't been taking photos for years. I pushed myself forward to doing it and, within a couple of months of feeling comfortable, found an alternative music publication based in my state! Mixed Alternative Magazine interviewed a local band I'd previously taken photos of. Reaching out, showing my portfolio, and trying to join the team would be good. Mixed Alt was thrilled about me wanting to join and drilled it into my head that I was talented in what I was doing. It felt good to be a part of something bigger than just myself. Throughout the year, I'd pick up all the gigs of my friends that I could. I grew my talent, got better equipment, and returned to my love of writing thanks to the woman behind all the magic at Mixed Alt Mag – Nicole Brice . When I saw that Sleeping with Sirens was coming to the House of Blues in New Orleans , I knew I would probably not get it, but I asked Nicole if we could try anyway. She allowed me to try, and we waited and waited and waited for what seemed like forever. Thirty hours before the show, I got an email saying I had been approved. I remember losing my mind. "OH, FUCK OH FUCK NO WAY NO WAY, I CAN'T BELIEVE IT OMG," I said. I couldn't believe I was accepted ! After over a year of sweat, tears, and dedication, I was meeting my massive goal of photographing one of my favorite bands. When I found myself in the photo pit of The House of Blues, taking photos of them performing ' Do It Now Remember It Later ,' it brought me back to that 16-year-old girl who was trying to find her place in the world, crowd-surfing to that same song at Warped tour 12 years ago. It brought me back to the 27-year-old woman I had grown to become just a year before screaming the lyrics to her partner and starting a dream in that field. It reminded me of all the past friends, lovers, adults, and press managers who said I couldn't do it. It showed me that every single step I had taken since I was 16 years old brought me to this moment – standing directly in front of Kellin Quinn and his fellow bandmates, capturing the magic through my lens, from my own eyes—the adrenaline from being so close and feeling so proud of myself pumped through my veins. Credit: Rian Nickels I guess my purpose of this alternate article was to tell you – just like Sleeping with Sirens would – to never give up on your dreams. As sappy as it is, dreams can come true, and you can achieve anything if you truly set your heart and mind to it. *All photos courtesy of Rian Nickels - to see more, check out Rian's site below. rianmusicjpeg.myportfolio.com Rian Haynsworth 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

Chris Bond < Back Color, Form, and Texture with a Modern Twist Nicole Brice Nov 28, 2022 Share Chris Bond Color, form, and texture are the words that come to mind when I think of this artist, I am about to introduce you to. Color truly is everything. It doesn’t matter which medium is used because if something has a pop of color and catches my eye, I am hooked, and the stunning use of color and imagery used in these pieces is no exception. Let me introduce you to work of Chris Bond . Art by Chris Bond Chris is a Baton Rouge -based artist using texture and form to create colorful visual masterpieces reminiscent of a style made famous by Vincent Van Gogh . Each piece is unique and different and makes you stop to think and admire all the beauty in the world that serves as inspiration for those who create. Art by Chris Bond He likes to manipulate acrylics to make them look like oils. In fact, had he not told me that he prefers acrylics, I would have thought he was using oil paint all along. Chris credits William Whistler as an inspiration because “he was the father of modern art, right?”, says Bond . Although he prefers working with acrylics, he will utilize any medium to achieve the results he is looking for, because to him, the surface one uses to create is just as important as the materials. No truer words have been spoken. Art by Chris Bond Crediting his grandmother, Claudia , as his true inspiration, he has been creating ever since he could walk and pick up a crayon to color, and at 55 years old, this artist’s work is something to take note of and be inspired by. Art by Chris Bond For more information about this stunning artist’s pieces and to see his work, you can visit him on social media at: Chris Bond | Facebook If you are interested in purchasing pieces from him, he can be reached at: 430davidbond@gmail.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? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Christina Binns < Back Flowers, Glitter, and Resin, Oh My! Nicole Brice Oct 29, 2022 Share Christina Binns You may not have heard of the name Christina Binns in the Art world YET , but you WILL . Putting her entire heart and soul into what she creates, this chicka knows how to merge the aesthetic of beauty and fragility into pieces worth having in your collection and showing off. I first met Christina , or Christi as I know her, when we had an honors English class together freshman year of high school. Christi had some wicked style, even back then, and I can remember her always having the latest and greatest fashions from the Delia*s catalog, which I always seemed to be lusting over. Lucky for me, though, Christi and I hit it off, become best friends, and then I had access to that same great fashion she paraded up and down the halls of our high school. With a knack for combining colors, textures, and styles, her fashion sense trickled over into her artwork, and throughout the years even though we may be miles apart, I have never forgotten how awesome this girlie is, and now, I would like to bring her art to you, the readers of Mixed Alternative Magazine . Art by Christina Binns Recently, Christina and I had a chance to chat, and I threw some questions her way, which she did not disappoint in answering. Get to know this incredible visualist and artist and then check out her work and buy something. You’ll want to buy everything because it is ALL phenomenal. In fact, in choosing the images for this piece, I had a hard time narrowing it down, so when you get to the bottom of this article, you MUST check out her work on social media. Christina Binns MaM : What age did you notice you had the art gene and a need to create? I remember you taking Art classes in high school, but never really asked you about your creations. Also, too, for the longest time, I had all the drawings you made me saved in a drawer at my mom’s house. It’s true. I wonder where those are now. Hrmm. CB : Well, I’ve been creating since before I can remember. I’ve always had a vivid imagination, still do. As a kid, I’d conjure up these elaborate stories & add my own illustrations. I was always doodling. I’m always in my “happy place” when I’m making things, always have been. Whether from my writing or my art, no matter the method, when I’m creating, that’s when I’m most fulfilled. So, to answer your question, the need to create has always been present. MaM : Thinking back, do you remember the first piece of art you ever created? CB : Oh man, the FIRST piece ever?! Where’s my memory when I really need it… well, since I can’t recall the 1st ever (that’d of been at a single-digit age), how about I go with a couple that really stuck with me through the years, both wooden creations. One was to be a box that opened & closed, the other a functioning mobile, with fully moveable parts. I’ll start with the box. Decided I was making a ladybug box, with wings on top that opened to reveal an itty-bitty cavity for tiny treasures & such. So, we all know ladybugs are round, right? Well, cue the naysayers – and I quote, “You can’t make a box round. That won’t work – it doesn’t even make sense!” Challenge accepted and annihilated – BOOM! You know I had to make the bug box & yes, she is filled with tiny what-nots & she’s perched on my shelf in my art room. For the mobile, I made a waving dude, whose arms, hands & head were moveable. Picture an upper body, shoulders/arms on up, cartoon-style, crazy wavin’… I think I gave him a bowtie too. Good times. No clue where he went, but I’m pretty sure I gave him to somebody, maybe my brother – who knows. Wherever he went, he sure was awesome. Both projects were just before I hit my 20’s. While they weren’t early in my art days, they both helped me to really hone in on that imagination of mine. Making these 2 things happen just as I had dreamt up, that only further solidified what I already assumed: If I can imagine it, I can probably make it happen, I can DEFINITELY try! Thinking you can do something is half the battle, so if you truly believe in you, then you’re already halfway there. Art by Christina Binns MaM : If you had to pick one piece as your favorite, what would it be? Give us the deets, sista. CB : My absolute favorites, as of now, would have to be a tie between 2 completely different pieces, both of which are displayed in my home. One is a giant pair of _x_ gallery-wrapped canvases that I painted, embellished with broken glass and added resin to. There’s just something about the soft, muted colors I used, mixed with the sheer size of them. I often stare at them with the same admiration as when I 1st made them & they’re a regular topic of conversation when someone visits. So delicate-looking thanks to the colors & design, yet slightly dangerous, courtesy of the jagged-edged, broken shards of glass poking out from the resin. My other fave is the 2nd cold porcelain sculpture that I ever made. Roughly 100 individually hand sculpted flowers & leaves flow over the edge of an 8x10 gesso panel. I left it unpainted simply because I love the way it looks. Truth be told, I really impressed myself with this piece. It encouraged me to take the plunge into the world of cold porcelain. I was in love… with hand sculpting! Art by Christina Binns Funny story, I stumbled across this medium by accident (or maybe fate, who knows) when making a magnolia flower piece for my sweet momma. I knew I wanted 3D flowers coming up from the canvas but was struggling with what to use to get that effect, that could still be painted. After doing a ton of research & speaking to some other sculptors in the clay world, I landed on cold porcelain, an air-dry clay that’s nearly translucent when completely dry. Picked up the supplies & made the most gorgeous piece with 3 life-size magnolias and several leaves, on canvas that I painted & added a few layers of resin to. I painted the canvas this ridiculously pretty blue, so after adding the resin, it looked as if the magnolias were floating on water. As they say, the rest is history! MaM : So, I know you have another gig to pay the bills, so where do you call home these days and what are you doing when you are not creating art? CB : Currently, I live in Cypress, TX, just outside of Houston. I’m an artist at heart, always, so I don’t really have set hours, since I wear a few other hats as well. I’ve been a licensed Realtor in Louisiana since 2007 (with Realty Executives South Louisiana Group) and in Texas since 2020 (with Fathom Realty). Additionally, I work remotely as a CRM (Client/Customer Relationship Manager) & Email Marketing Coordinator for a Washington state realty firm (since 2019). This side hustle allows me to work on my marketing skills, as well as my creative/content writing capabilities, which comes in quite handy for all those hats I wear. I also wrote a yet-to-be-published book that I plan to self-publish. One of these days I’ll jump off that fence & make it happen! Art by Christina Binns MaM : Give us some info about life over the years and your fave medium to use in creating pieces. It’s been forever since high school even though it seems like just yesterday. CB : I live in the burbs with my wife Sequence & our 2 dogs Cooper (pointer lab) & Cole (Pug). I moved here in 2019 after Sequence’s corporate ladder-climbing landed her in the Houston area. We also lived near Atlanta, GA for a few years, but most of my life was spent in Louisiana, split between Baton Rouge & Prairieville. I worked in retail management for many moons, primarily in shoe sales. When I was in Georgia, I worked in Recruiting for a minute, before eventually moving back to my home state. From there, I was office manager for the Louisiana brokerage I’m licensed with, for a few years, before making the Texas leap. Let’s see, some other facts about me… I’m a damn good cook, I’m a water baby through & through (stick me with my family, friends and all the pups, plop us near a lake/river/beach & let us be, lol). I love a good documentary & I’m still a cartoon fanatic, even at 40. Art by Christina Binns I like my music loud, a bass junkie, if you will. I’m eclectic when it comes to music, I like everything except country. Ok, ok, I do like some country, but that’s a limited category for me. Now, as far as what’s on the turntables, that’s likely to be drum ‘n bass or jungle, a little EDM, a lot of old school rock & rap and the occasional comic relief (listening to Richard Pryor on vinyl is a whole experience). Like I said, eclectic. Being a mixed media artist, I use so many different mediums, it’s hard to pick a favorite. I think my answer to that depends on the day. I can say that I can always get down with a paint session, no matter what’s going on. I’m a painter, sculptor, woodworker, mold-maker, card maker, sewist (seamstress, if you’re old school), wood burner, soap maker and resin artist, all wrapped into one. I’m no one-trick pony, that’s for sure! I enjoy trying new things all the time - I think it keeps me sharp, you know! Thinking outside the box, being open to trying new styles & mediums & being ok with something not turning out as planned… I do these things regularly. Some of the materials I like to incorporate into my artworks: paint, wood, dried flowers, resin, genuine crystals & stones, broken glass, alcohol inks, gold leaf, cold porcelain, silicone, cardstock, gold foil. Art by Christina Binns As far as canvases go, I like to use everything from gallery-wrapped canvases and wood panels, to old scratched up vinyl records. If I can repurpose something that would have otherwise been discarded, that’s a bonus. Giving new life to a would-be trash item, to me, that’s something special. All the vinyl I use are retirees from my personal record collection of over 1,000. I try to keep them in the rotation, pun intended, especially since I have them in such abundance. No matter the artwork I’m creating, if I can reuse something lying around for it, I take every opportunity to do so. On that note, any time I do a paint pour, I make multiple pieces from one single pour. That excess paint can be stretched far, helping me to be more time-efficient in my creative process by cranking out several pieces at once. The same goes with any resin projects. The more I can make with a single batch of product, the better! MaM : I’m sure there are other artists out there you admire. Please tell us who and why. CB : Hmmm… yet another toss-up for this one. It’d have to be between Daniel Popper & Gil Bruvel, both incredible artists, both with a focus on 3-dimensional art. Neither of them ceases to blow my mind with their creations. Daniel has these other-worldly sculptures of massive proportion, on display all over the world, in some of the most breath-taking places. Next time I’m in Mexico, I have GOT to remember to hit up his Tulum sculpture, “Ven a la Luz”. It’s a bucket list item, for sure. Then there’s Gil, who uses thousands of individual wood pieces to create these unbelievable faces, also on a larger scale. The skill & talent these guys possess is unreal. They’re both incredible at their craft. Art by Christina Binns To check out and purchase some of Christina’s amazing art, you can visit her on social media at: Christina Binns | Facebook Christina Binns (@b__christina) • 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

Clay Pigeons is a cult-classic dark comedy about small-town appearances, serial killers, and sexual betrayal that is just as funny as it is grim. < Back Clay Pigeons: Feast Upon This Keeley Brooks Sep 28, 2023 Share Clay Pigeons is a cult-classic dark comedy about small-town appearances, serial killers, and sexual betrayal that is just as funny as it is grim. Rating: 4 out of 5 dead could-be rockstars Welcome to Feast Upon This , a new column by yours truly where I’ll be sharing with you new and old titles worth feasting upon and telling you all about why you should watch them. First up is the 1998 independent gem Clay Pigeons , a relentlessly dark but funny small-town crime drama about a simple guy who keeps finding himself in the worst possible situations—usually involving dead bodies—and perhaps the nicest serial killer on the planet. Starring Joaquin Phoenix ( Joker ), Vince Vaughn ( Old School ), and Janeane Garofalo ( Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later ), Clay Pigeons has a strange, meandering plot that starts off funny but turns dark pretty fast as it twists and turns, leaving you wondering where the hell it’s gonna lead. It definitely treads the fine line between comedy and laid-back seriousness. Clay Pigeons was developed under filmmakers Ridley and Tony Scott’s company, Scott Free Productions , and is directed by David Dobkin ( Shanghai Knights and Wedding Crashers ). It’s also the second successful on-screen collaboration between Vaughn and Phoenix, who appeared together in Return to Paradise , which is also a great movie upon which you should feast. It released the same year and centers on two friends (Vaughn and Phoenix) who must choose whether to help a third friend who was arrested in Malaysia for drug possession. Back to Clay Pigeons , though. Set in the small town of Mercer, Montana, where everybody knows your name and is all up in your business, Clay Pigeons is one of those macabre comedies where the characters are quirky, not much is taken too seriously, the deputy sheriff is named—in homage to The Andy Griffith Show —Barney, and dead bodies continually surface around one particularly innocent man, making him look completely guilty. Clay Bidwell (Phoenix) is an affable, weak-willed, easy-going gas station attendant who, in the opening scene, finds himself up Shit Creek without a paddle while out target shooting with his best friend, Earl (Gregory Sporleder, of Black Hawk Down ). With gun in hand, Earl announces he knows Clay has been sleeping with his wife, Amanda (Georgina Cates, of Sinner ). Then, in an entertaining scene epitomizing how effectively Clay Pigeons juggles dark thriller and comedic elements, Clay begs Earl not to do anything he’ll regret right as a disheartened but methodical Earl carries out his plot to off himself and make it look like Clay killed him. In a panic, Clay goes to Amanda for help, but she tells him he’s on his own and leaves him to his own devices to dispose of the body. See, Clay is the kind of character who wouldn’t hurt a fly. Hell, he wouldn’t even swat at one, so when he stages a drunken car wreck to make Earl’s death look like a suicide, he’s batshit squirmy and completely out of his element. But ultimately Clay makes it work and even gets away with it, thanks to the gullible (and borderline narcoleptic) Deputy Sheriff Barney, who has known Clay long enough to know he would never, ever do anything wicked; he swallows every drop of bullshit Clay feeds him with ease. After Earl’s funeral, Clay finds an unapologetic, half-naked Amanda at his house in his bed, where she pressures him to continue with their affair. Overwhelmed with guilt, Clay resists her advances and heads to the bar, where she follows and invasively pressures Clay, getting all up in his personal space, ignoring his requests to leave him alone. When she amps up her attempts by getting physical, he slaps her and catches the attention of a peculiar cowboy hat-wearing bar patron, who moves in closer to befriend Clay while he’s at his lowest. Lester Long (Vaughn) is an obnoxiously dressed, super suave, but unnervingly creepy drifter who rolls into town the day of Earl’s funeral and forces his way into Clay’s life after seeing (and enjoying) his act of violence against a woman. An always smiling, over-confident fast talker, Long dresses in tacky, WAY-TOO-LOUD western wear and accentuates it with a high-pitched, machine-gun laugh—the kind that creeps you out and compels you to get as far away from him as you can. But he’s more than just a drifter: He’s an under-the-radar serial killer making his way through the state of Montana. This silver-tongued cowboy has a way with the ladies, a way with cigarettes, and he’s top notch at manipulating anyone he cozies up to. Lester—excuse me, “Lester the, uh, Mo-lester” as he likes to introduce himself, is the archetypal stranger with a mysterious past, handsome good looks, and such a charming manner that you can’t really be entirely sure if he’s an angel or the devil. All you know is that something about him is just … off. Next to Long, Clay is the local loser par excellence who finds himself embroiled in a life of panic, anxiety, and suspicion as fate continues to throw him the raw end of the deal at every turn. Stuck between a rock and a hard place (i.e., Lester’s maneuvering and Amanda’s slutty libido), Clay finds himself implicated in the fact that a bunch of corpses—obviously the work of a serial killer—keep turning up around him, right in the public’s view. After Earl’s death, a distraught Clay bones a waitress named Gloria, which pisses off a vengeful Amanda, who winds up killing Gloria. Always the sucker, Clay agrees the dispose of the body once again and dumps it in a local lake. Only, he forgets to weigh it down, so you know this one’s coming back to surface, and you can bet it will be at the most inopportune time. The next day, Lester baits Clay into going fishing at the same lake, and in a most hysterical scene, Gloria’s dead body floats to the surface and horrifies Clay. In a panic, he tries pushing the body away from the boat with an oar before Lester notices but doesn’t succeed. That moment right there is one of the reasons you should watch Clay Pigeons . As Lester spots and points at the body, he stands and, with charming innocence, yells, “Well f**k me! Man overboard! Man overboard!" "Oh my God, what is that?" Clay asks. "Alarm! That’s a person, Clay! That’s a dead person!” Lester answers. "Well, I can see that .... wh--what do we do?" Clay wonders. "I don't know, man. It's a new situation for me," Lester says as he reaches for the leg of the body. "It's okay, I've got her," he continues as Clay leans over the side of the boat to vomit. "Aw man, it just gets uglier and uglier! I love the open water, man!" Lester exclaims. “Well, I don’t think anybody would want us touching her, you know?” a freaked-out Clay says. “Her? Hell, I’m not even sure that damn thing’s a woman!” Lester quips. “Well of course it’s a woman. It’s got long hair,” Clay responds. “Well, it could be a rockstar, Clay. We don’t know what the f**k it is,” Lester asserts. Having no choice, Clay confesses his secret to his new pal Lester, which solidifies for Lester that the two are now “fishin’ buddies” for life. Just for your viewing pleasure, here’s a little snippet of that scene, but you should really watch it in its entirety for the full effect. Clay further paints himself into a corner when he goes to Sheriff Mooney (Scott Wilson, of Black Mirror ) to report the body and keeps Lester’s name out of the deets. But time always tells the truth, and when Amanda turns up dead after boning Lester, Clay begins to put two and two together and realizes Lester is the killer. When the FBI show up, Sheriff Mooney is not happy they’re all up in his jurisdiction, but he allows the help and knows he needs it after continually catching Deputy Barney (Vince Vieluf, of Love, Inc. ) napping on the job and being super careless with evidence due to his lack of common sense. Now Clay really looks like the prime suspect, especially once Agent Shelby (Garofalo) questions him in jail. “You’re dating one victim, you’re having an affair with another, and you actually found the third. Kind of a coincidence, wouldn’t you say?” Shelby taunts Clay. Garofalo and her mannerisms, which border on excessive familiarity with Fargo ’s police chief Marge Gunderson (Frances McDormand), make Agent Shelby one of the best parts of Clay Pigeons and yet another reason why you should see this movie. She’s highly intelligent, extremely direct, and plays the sarcastic “wise guy”—the kind of wise guy who sniffs out other wise guys a mile away. It’s no surprise, then, that after meeting Lester Long, she suspects he's probably the killer. Director David Dobkin does a fantastic job of creating clever, intricate scenes for Garofalo to have fun with—in particular, that bar room encounter with Lester. As Clay sits in a cell under FBI suspicion of being a serial killer, Lester goes to visit him and tell him he has a plan to help prove Clay’s innocence: He’ll just kill another person to prove Clay isn’t the one committing these crimes. Lester’s malevolence really bleeds out here in the way he toys with Clay, who does not like this plan at all. In an effort to face Lester and stop the murder, Clay breaks out of jail by duping the one Agent Shelby refers to as “a boob,” Deputy Barney. What plays out after that is left completely up to your viewing pleasure. What I love about Clay Pigeons are the characters. Screenwriter Matthew Healy really dove deep into creating Clay, Lester, Barney, and Agent Shelby, and it shows in how well written they are. Both Clay and Lester pretend to be dumber than they really are, with Phoenix taking on the more subdued role of innocent man in trouble while Vaughn, in a far more distinctive turn than his take on Norman Bates, is a diabolical serial killer and charming misogynist who might sound and appear creepy but who is genuinely wrapped up in his friendship with Clay, whom he pins to be his fall guy. Their relationship serves as an intriguing take on male camaraderie and mutual dependency that turns into an exploding landmine once Clay discovers the truth. Clay Pigeons features some enjoyable early stellar performances from Phoenix, Vaughn, and Garofalo, who each delightfully relish their individual roles, which further allows us to relish every little thing about their characters and acting methods. Clay Pigeons’ quirky little narrative makes plenty of room for its somewhat-clunky plot to unravel and unwind on you in its own time, and it’s stocked full of some high-quality verbal zingers—yet another reason to watch this film. Sheriff Mooney also lays down some solid work, understanding that his character is, unlike the others, not at all there to be funny but instead is there to ground everyone in reality. Overall, Clay Pigeons is a pleasant amalgamation of Orson Welles’ Touch of Evil (1958) with classic, eccentric, screwball comedy topped off with a fun soundtrack to enhance the laid-back but sinister mood. Riding the tail end of the neo-noir boom of the 90s, Clay Pigeons was generally regarded as derivative of Quentin Tarantino and Coen Bros. films with their idiosyncratic characters enmeshed in a neo-noirish story bookended by jarring violence and clever levity. If you’re at all a Joaquin Phoenix, Vince Vaughn, or Janeane Garofalo fan, this is one flick you’re gonna want to indulge in and add to your queue or collection. Clay Pigeons is available to buy or rent on Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, Redbox, and Roku. Keeley Brooks is 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 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

“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

Solid Alternative Rock < Back A Melodic Rock Offering: Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Feb 27, 2023 Share Solid Alternative Rock Hello guys and gals, I have some new music for your ears and, of course, I must share. I recently stumbled upon a musician out of Glasgow, Scotland , by the name of Neil Thomas . By day, he’s a full-time software engineer, and by night, he’s a producer with a lifelong passion for music that has culminated in his latest project, Caustic Waves . Although it is a new project, Neil has been in the business over 20 years. He started out in the mid-2000’s as the guitarist for the metal band Keitel and then switched to bass and backing vocals as part of the power-pop band The Chinaskis . Photo provided by artist With Caustic Waves , Neil combines elements from both bands into a melodic and solid rock offering with a tinge of a pop-rock vibe reminiscent of 90’s alt bands such as Trapt. Launched in March 2022 , Caustic Waves came onto the scene with the debut single ' Regenerate ,' which was the first in a series of single releases throughout 2022. Neil has continued to stay busy since then writing and recording new material. On Friday, March 3, 2023 , a new six-track EP titled Full Circle drops via all streaming platforms and as a limited-edition CD as well. Be sure to check out his new release once it drops and pay attention to the standout tracks ' Barriers ' and ' Idiocracy '. Full Circle releases March 3, 2023 via all streaming platforms We recently threw some questions Neil’s way so you could get a better feel for this up-and-coming artist and his work. MaM : If you could cite your favorite band as far as influence, who would it be? NT : Picking one is tough, but I'm going to go with Helmet. Their 90s output is absolutely essential for alternative/post-hardcore fans, and, in particular, their album 'Aftertaste' is a big influence on my sound. For me, it has the perfect blend of heavy guitars with strong vocal melodies. That's my aim with Caustic Waves—loud rhythm guitars underneath melodic vocals and layers of harmonies. The original Helmet drummer, John Stanier, is a huge influence, too. He has such a unique and identifiable groove, and my approach to drums is very much based on his style. MaM : We are huge Helmet fans here, too, so good pick. As far as vocal influences, who is your favorite front man? NT : Jonah Matranga (Far/Onelinedrawing etc) is a big influence on my vocal approach, and he's an absolute legend. In terms of a favourite front man, it's hard to look past Maynard James Keenan from Tool/A Perfect Circle. He is such an enigma on stage, and his voice is incredible. Photo provided by artist MaM : Good picks, again. You have excellent taste in music, and we approve. What type of guitar do you play and why? NT : I play a Schecter C-1 Diamond Series, which I've had since 2005. I bought that guitar when I played with my first band, Keitel. My approach to playing guitar hasn't really changed since then, which is why there's a strong late-90s/early-00s influence to the sound of Caustic Waves. I keep meaning to treat myself to a new guitar, but I still love to play my Schecter, and it suits my sound well. MaM : Ok, let’s talk gear. How do you achieve your sound and what pedals / gear was used in the recording of the new material? NT : Although I have a reasonable collection of pedals that I used for demos, the guitar tones on the EP were all achieved with the amp sim plugin, BIAS FX. Amp sim technology has progressed a lot since I started using Amplitube back in 2010, and it wasn't too hard to dial in the tones I was looking for. It was also somewhat out of necessity. I recorded the guitars at nighttime in my home studio when my kids were asleep downstairs. The drums are virtual too, using GetGood Drums - Modern and Massive. MaM : Give our readers a little more background about you and where you live. NT : I'm from Glasgow in Scotland. I was born and raised here. There's a brilliant music scene in Glasgow [and] Scotland, and I've been going to gigs since I was 15. Another one of my main influences are Biffy Clyro, who come from a town not too far from Glasgow. I first saw them play in a small pub in 1998, and now they're one of the biggest rock bands in the UK. Photo provided by artist MaM : Who all is involved in Caustic Waves? Just you? NT : It's just me! I'm a one-man band! For now, it's just a studio project, although I do miss playing live so I'm open to the idea of putting together a live band at some point in the future.I did have some guests on the EP: My brother-in-law Adrian McGurn (from the Irish traditional folk band Solás ) sang some harmonies on the ending section of ' Idiocracy .’ That part of the song is about the importance of education and investing in the next generation , so it felt appropriate, as Adrian is a teacher. He lived with us at the start of lockdown when schools were closed, and he home-schooled my two boys for a few months. It was during that time that I started recording the EP, and that's when we recorded his vocal tracks. There's also a cameo from my two boys, Jamie and Charlie , who helped me with some backing "woahs" in the middle section of ' Evolution '. To check out all that is Caustic Waves , hit the links below and be sure to check out Full Circle dropping on March 3, 2023! Linktree: https://linktr.ee/causticwaves Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5YFSnuEccV4gdfzlxKkdu9 Bandcamp: https://causticwaves.bandcamp.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/causticwaves YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@causticwaves Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/causticwaves Twitter: https://twitter.com/causticwaves TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@causticwaves *All photos provided by the artist 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

Bud Gambrell has compiled a journey through music in “Sidetracks Music Hall”—a memoir rich with local history < Back Sidetracks Music Hall by Bud Gambrell: Book Review Nicole Brice Sep 20, 2023 Share Bud Gambrell has compiled a journey through music in “Sidetracks Music Hall”—a memoir rich with local history When Bud Gambrell first contacted me to read his newly published book about the now-defunct Sidetracks Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama , I had never heard of it … but I was intrigued. After reading the meticulously orchestrated memoir from cover to cover, I became engrossed in the history behind a truly unique establishment that not only touched the hearts of the patrons who frequented the space but also had a lasting impact on the musicians who played there. “ Sidetracks Music Hall ” offers a unique perspective on the magic of those live performances and on the lasting impact of the energy the space provided. Bud’s attention to detail in firsthand accounts from musicians, employees, and fans presents an engaging book that leaves no stone unturned and immerses readers in the vibrant atmosphere that was Sidetracks Music Hall . Though only open for a few years, the venue had a huge impact on the area that persists even today and is felt in the narratives of local musicians and patrons who offer a rare glimpse into the passion and dedication that goes into running a music establishment. Released June 8, 2023 The narrative of “ Sidetracks Music Hall ” seamlessly intertwines Gambrell’s personal anecdotes with the historical evolution of the music space, and through his encounters with renowned musicians—both big names and rising stars—the author offers readers an intimate glimpse into the creative process and the inner workings of the music and restaurant industry. What sets “ Sidetracks Music Hall ” apart is Gambrell’s ability to paint vivid portraits of the artists he met. From poetic songwriters to energetic performers, Bud captures the essence of their unique musical styles and personalities in moments that provide an intimate connection between the reader and the musicians, evoking a deeper appreciation for their craft. Gambrell’s attention to detail pulls the reader into the heart of what Sidetracks Music Hall was, not just to the locals, but to the artists and musicians who frequently took the stage there. It is worth noting that while “ Sidetracks Music Hall ” beautifully captures the spirit of live music, it also touches upon the challenges faced by the industry. Credit: Bud Gambrell “ Sidetracks Music Hall ” is a compelling memoir that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the world of live music in Alabama . Through evocative storytelling and insightful reflections, Gambrell not only pays homage to various musicians but also sheds light on the unique power of live performances. Whether you’re a devoted music fan or are just simply curious about the magic that happens on stage, this book will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the music that moves us all. In order to get a better feel for the love behind the narrative, I reached out to Bud, who’s also a photographer, for a deeper knowledge of the lasting legacy Sidetracks Music Hall has provided. MaM : Thank you for taking the time to chat with us today. Give us a little background info on you. BG : Well, if I go back to the very beginning, I was born in Louisiana but raised in North Alabama. I’ve been a music lover my entire life and have actually been accused of being a music snob a few times. I’ve looked it up in the Urban Dictionary, too, and the first definition of it is definitely me. I’ve been going to concerts for a long time, and when they first opened Sidetracks Music Hall, I didn’t know that much about it. I knew that they were trying to cater to original bands and musicians, but one day I just started going and it just kind of became a second home to me. It just had something about the place … this aura. It’s hard to explain if you weren’t there, but the atmosphere was amazing. MaM : What gave you the idea to write and compile your book? BG : I actually got my idea when I was at Sidetracks last year. I was there shooting Ace Monroe and I was talking to the road manager. We were discussing my coming up to shoot a show they were playing at the EXIT/IN, and we were sitting at the bar, and I saw a book for this venue right there and the idea came from those who had chronicled and circled back all these bands and acts that had played EXIT/IN. It was around this time, too, that I found out Sidetracks was closing. Various logos of Sidetracks over the years MaM: How long did it take you to compile everything? BG : Well, I started on the book, and within a month, Sidetracks closed. September 4, 2022, was the last night. By the first of October, I had already started doing interviews and talking to people. Around the holidays, though, I almost abandoned it because it was so much, but by the first of the year, I told myself that I needed to finish it. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it, but the inspiration came about because of my love for the place. It was a true labor of love. MaM : You mentioned photography earlier. Give us a little more info about your work in that arena. BG : Well, I’ve always been a hobby shutterbug ... I remember being in the Boy Scouts and taking pictures with a camera, but I can’t remember the model, and they don’t make them anymore, but it was a Kodak shaped like a box and you had to look down through the top of it and there was a thumb button to take the pictures. So, I would take those cameras on camping trips, and I’ve always had some type of camera around, but three years ago in 2020, to keep from going stir crazy, I got a drone and started with that. Several people told me the photos and videos from it were great and that I should become a professional and the next thing I knew, I was starting a photography business. Ace Monroe with Bud Gambrell at Sidetracks Music Hall. All of the photos on the wall behind them were shot by Bud. MaM : So, where do you like to shoot? BG : Right now, I shoot some local stuff at some bars, but a good bit of what I’m doing is at our local civic center. They’ve got four rooms there, and you’re shooting photos and listening to music, so it never feels like work. I got to shoot Joe Satriani last year, which was a dream show, and I’ve shot Gov’t Mule, Warren Haynes, and ZZ Top, too. Joe Satriani - photo by Bud Gambrell MaM : So, as far as all the bands and musicians that performed at Sidetracks over the years, who was your favorite to see and shoot? BG : Damon Johnson is one. I’ve been a fan of his for over 29 years, since his first or second album came out, and I’ve never had a chance to see him live until he played Sidetracks. Them Dirty Roses was another one, which I mention them a good bit in the book. There are so many, honestly, but if I had to pick just one, it would be Tab Benoit . I’ve actually got a picture on my office wall that I took of him, had blown up, and then had him sign it. MaM : How would you say Sidetracks Music Hall touched you personally? What takeaways do you have from the entire experience of seeing live music performed there? BG : It was the atmosphere. It had a home vibe and just always felt head and shoulders above everyone else. You know, there were nights I would go there by myself, and it was never a consideration whether I should or not because it always felt safe. It felt like home. Some nights, I could go and know half the people there, and some nights I didn’t, but by the end of the night I did. I wasn’t intentionally looking for a new place to hang out when I found Sidetracks, but the more I started going there, the more I realized how awesome the place was. It had this Cheers- type vibe where everyone knew your name, and to be honest, I don’t think I ever saw one fight the entire time I was there. I saw a lot of funny stuff, but never anything bad. Nobody at Sidetracks was ever in a bad mood. To experience the nostalgia of Sidetracks Music Hall yourself and to learn more about the establishment, Bud Gambrell’s book “Sidetracks Music Hall” is currently available for purchase on Amazon. The link is below, so be sure to check it out! The book is currently available via paperback, hardcover, and on Kindle. Side Tracks Music Hall: Gambrell, Bud: 9798396341999: Amazon.com: Books 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

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