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Exploring the stories and southern spirit that shaped Dash Rip Rock’s newest chapter. < Back Finding the Song in Everyone: Conversations with Dash Rip Rock Gary Governale Nov 15, 2025 Share Exploring the stories and southern spirit that shaped Dash Rip Rock’s newest chapter. Legendary Louisiana cowpunk band Dash Rip Rock is finishing up their set with a powerful cover of an old Minutemen song. Bassist Izzy Grisoli bounces and grooves to the beat, while drummer Wade Hymel pounds out the rhythm. Meanwhile, band founder and leader Bill Davis sits quietly in the corner, shredding on guitar like only he can. This isn’t the end of a beer-soaked set at an edge-of-town roadhouse; it’s actually Izzy’s living room in the Broadmoor area of New Orleans . It marks the last song of a more than two-hour rehearsal as Dash prepares to close out 2025 with a series of shows, culminating in the release of a brand-new album. Credit: Gary Governale It’s been a long and winding journey for Davis . He started the band in the mid-1980s while attending Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge , using it as a way to earn some extra money on the side. Let’s dive into who Dash Rip Rock is today and where they are headed. Bill : I love Punk Rock and New Wave, and there weren't that many punk rock and new wave bands in Baton Rouge . But the LSU fraternities were hiring punk and new wave to play their fraternity parties. So, I kind of just put the band together to make a little extra side money and then to write songs and start doing kind of a creative punk thing. The guys in the band were just sort of like newbie musicians, just like me, and we were mostly in school. We were at school at LSU , going to classes, and then we formed a band in the summertime, and it just took off. Yeah, we instantly started doing really well and drawing crowds, and then transferred over into New Orleans , and then it just took off from there. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Did you intend on going into “Cowpunk” necessarily, or was it more punk at first? Bill : It wasn't called “ Cowpunk ”, but you know, we were calling it “ Country Punk ”. There were bands like Rank and File , The Long Ryders , Jason and the Scorchers , The Beat Farmers …They all came through Baton Rouge . It was kind of a good stop off for touring bands. And so, you had a great college radio station there, KLSU , and so all these bands stopped in, and when they did, I instantly went out there and made buddies, made friends with them, got drunk with them, brought them to the house, and made a gumbo. We just befriended all these cool Cowpunk bands. But it wasn't really called “ Cowpunk ”; it was “ Country Punk .” MaM : But it stuck, and you obviously embraced it. Bill : Yeah, I mean, I've embraced it because it's fun. It's just a fun thing to say, like, “ Yacht Rock ”, you know? It's “ Cowpunk !" Like Mojo Nixon used to say, “There are more bands than fans in Cowpunk. Everybody loves playing Cowpunk, but nobody goes to see it!” You know, it's like empty audiences. (laughs) Izzy : And it's not really true. They do turn up. Bill : Like outlaw country , the cruise and the radio station have all sorts of lifted Cowpunk up recently, but it has been a rough slog. But it's been fun because Cowpunk is a blast. It's a blast to play. It's fast, and it’s country! Credit: Gary Governale In fact, the current lineup of Dash Rip Rock seems determined to stretch beyond Cowpunk . The band, at heart, has always embraced its Southern roots. Influenced by Georgia bands like R.E.M. and Guadalcanal Diary , Dash followed in their footsteps: finding inspiration in Southern Gothic literature, poetry, and atmosphere. Creating fresh new music isn’t always easy for long-established bands, but Davis has found the solution: creating the most collaborative and creative version of Dash Rip Rock yet. Releasing January 30, 2026 via Dial Back Sound Bill : I would say this band is beyond Cowpunk . I mean, we made a record called “ Cowpunk ” several years ago. But this band is something else, right? The record label has been sort of digging around for something else to call us, because as much as we love playing Punk Rock and Country, this is just a different band. It's something else. It's better, you know? A million times better. Really, you're not going to pigeonhole this band by saying we're Cowpunk, because we are. But we're looser and more fun… like the members in this band, Wade, Bill, and Izzy, we have something that extends past Cowpunk. Wade : Yeah, it is a melting pot. MaM : You have a lot of different influences that go into it and a lot of various kinds of vibes that I guess you bring to the band. Bill : Absolutely. I've had several people pass through the ranks of Dash Rip Rock , as you know. I had a lot of cool guys come through and play in the band, but this one has been the one that seems more creative, most creative, most outgoing, and ambitious. We try a lot of different stuff that the old guys would not have done. So, we're more experimental. The rehearsal we just had, you know, we were messing around and a lot of stuff came to be… I was saying, “No, that's too much, we can't do it!”. And they were like, "Let's try it… it’s practice!” And then all of a sudden, it happened, and it was just brilliant. So, it's good. Everybody's chipping in. Credit: Gary Governale Izzy : Yeah, it's supposed to be like rootsy, rock, and punk… let's try it. And Wade's like, “Jam! Let's try it!” And then it just comes together in this power trio kind of way where we can achieve these fucking prog rock feats. Bill : Wade brings Jam and Prog to the project, and then Izzy brings a lot of punk , and then me, whatever I've been doing my whole life, which is Country and Punk . Yeah, it just blends really well, and we enjo y playing together. It's always an adventure and really, really fun. Wade : It is. It is. We have a lot of natural chemistry , and we also practice a lot. We're pretty diligent about getting together regularly for rehearsal when we can. So, the combination of those two things makes it really potent. Izzy : But everybody listens really well to each other while we play. That's why we're so tight. We’re constantly listening to each other, looking at each other. I fit in pretty easily because everybody’s so focused on the song, and so am I. So, it just works. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : I think part of the magic of Dash was always a certain level of improvisation, too. I mean, there's a lot of that. Bill : A lot of that. Yeah. And that's the adventure part because it's fun. You know, we could play our songs backwards and forwards perfectly, but we enjoy getting there and just messing them up, you know? Taking the puzzle pieces and throwing them in the air, and then they all come back down differently. Taking all those ideas and influences, the band has poured plenty of energy and excitement into their upcoming new album, A Song in Everyone . Recorded in Water Valley, Mississippi , with Matt Patton of Drive-By Truckers , the new album features the expected rockin’ riffs and humor that make Dash a Southern institution. But the album also expands on and builds the trio’s efforts to broaden the sound, creating something fresh and interesting. Bill : Matt Patton , who's the bass player for Drive-By Truckers , bought the old Fat Possum studio. The minute he asked us to make this record, I was like, "Fat Possum, say no more!” Because I would love to cut anything up in that old studio. There’s a lot of great music that came out of there. You already picture how it's gonna sound. So, we jumped at the chance and we're basically on his record label. It's just a bunch of really cool rock songs, and we're very excited about it. These guys get to sing a couple, and it's a real team effort. It's an amazing record. MaM : Would you say that's the most team effort you've had as far as crafting an album? Bill : Yeah, I would say that. You know, in the history of Dash Rip Rock , it's always been sort of just me putting all the albums and records together. And it's better ever since Wade joined. He's been a good partner in recording and getting studio stuff done … just more imagination, you know. Dash used to be “just stick to your style, stick to your genre.” Now it’s “let's just go outer space with it”. And we do, and it's a freaking awesome one. It's great. Credit: Gary Governale MAM : How many songs are you going to have on it? Bill : Ten. MAM : All brand-new original music? Bill : We’re doing a cover of ' Mean Mister Mustard ' by the Beatles . And it's a New Orleans style Huey Smith intro, and Wade plays piano on it. So, it's a New Orleans, James Booker , Huey Smith , Fats Domino version of ' Mean Mister Mustard .' It's really awesome. And then the rest are just songs that we've all written and cowritten. Izzy : It was cool to get to play on the new record, you know. Since joining the band, I didn't know whether I'd get to play on the record. Bill told me that not all the bass players play on the record; sometimes they stay in Baton Rouge . Bill : I played bass on a lot of Dash records! I mean, we had interesting people working with us. We had Henry Barbe . His dad is Dave Barbe , and he recorded all the Drive-By Truckers . He teaches music at the University of Georgia, and he was in the band Sugar with Bob Mould from Hüsker Dü . So, Dave Barbe's son engineered our first session, and then Clay Jones came, and he worked with Modest Mouse and R.L. Burnside . He was a monster. And then Jim Diamond , mastered it. He worked on a bunch really cool garage music, like the White Stripes . Izzy : We trusted him (producer Matt Patton ) a lot on this record. We really trusted his say. Wade : He’s so warm and relatable. He jumps into the stream, and you can follow his vision. He's just very easy to work with. And so, we fell into a natural chemistry. Bill : Matt just feels it . It's not like he's even listening. He feels it. He's using some spiritual guidance to make things happen. And then he would pop in and make these suggestions that were out in left field, and we would go, “Really?” And then we'd do it and we'd go, "Fuck, yeah, that was great!” Izzy : Dudes got the coolest vibe and coolest accent, and he'd be like, “I don't know, man. That one, if you don't say something about Rush Limbaugh , you ain't got no hair on your nuts or something.” (laughter) Wade : Well, yeah, that's the other thing… Even with his criticism, he's very gentle. My favorite thing would be like, if I had an idea and I came in and tried to play something, he'd go, “It's too intelligent” . Which was his way of saying, “Take most of those notes out. You’ve got a good idea but simplify it.” Izzy : Yeah, and he hates pedals. Bill : Yeah, he has a lot of vintage gear, and everything goes direct. And you never use a guitar pedal. If I say anything else about the record, I want to say that. Wade : It gives the record a really classic, timeless sound . Bill : Well, they have an incredible way of engineering and producing things there, and it's almost like it's a secret. I can't even tell you what they do, but it's insane. And when they did it, I go, "Are you serious? Are you really gonna do that to the music?” And they're like, "Yeah, we do this on every record”. And they did it. Holy shit, that sounds awesome! I can't even tell you what they did. I mean, this would be a whole different interview about their production techniques, but it just made the record sound a million times better. Experiencing a live Dash Rip Rock show is always a whiskey-fueled celebration. The concert features classic hits from the band, such as ' DMZ ,' ' Bumf**Egypt ,' ' Shake That Girl ,' and ' Pack Your Bags ,' as well as memorable covers of Dead Kennedys and ZZ Top songs. Even now, the band continues to introduce fresh music into their setlist, including Bill's current favorite, ' Pain Pills Never Expire ,' which is playing on SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country station. Like much of Dash's discography, the new songs are characterized by barroom swagger , Southern storytelling , and the band's signature humor . The new album from Dash Rip Rock, A Song in Everyone , was recorded at Dial Back Sound in Water Valley, Mississippi , and will be released January 30, 2026 , on the Dial Back Sound record label. Be sure to add it to your list of upcoming releases to check out. Track Listing: 1. Taking You On II 2. Dangerous Ways 3. 2 Much 2 Do 4. I Don’t Want to be a Whore 5. Shakin’ Out The Days 6. Pain Pills Never Expire 7. Mean Mr Mustard 8. Water Valley Throwdown 9. River 10. Hell & Back *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.dashriprock.net Dash Rip Rock Home page of Dash Rip Rock, a group from New Orleans, LA 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

They Deserve Some Damn Attention < Back Welcome to Flatch Keeley Brooks Oct 20, 2022 Share They Deserve Some Damn Attention With so many new sitcom titles dropping on TV and streaming platforms these days, it can be a challenge to try and catch them all. And while I do miss many new titles, I was lucky enough not to miss this one, and I’m glad I didn’t because it has become one of my new favorites, and I now find myself waiting for Thursdays just to watch the latest episode. Welcome to Flatch is a mockumentary sitcom directed by Paul Feig ( The Office , Freaks and Geeks ) and written and executive produced by Emmy Award-winner Jenny Bicks ( Sex in the City , Men in Trees ). It’s based on her British version of the show, The Country , and premiered on Fox in March 2022 . By May , it was renewed for a second season, which kicked off September 29 . When a documentary crew sets out to explore the lives, dreams, and concerns of residents in a small American town, it stumbles upon the tiny Midwestern town of Flatch, Ohio , where they discover many eccentric personalities and find more than worthy subjects in cousins and best friends Kelly Mallet and Lloyd “Shrub” Mallet , who aren’t at all shy about letting the crew in on their lives and local events. Each episode opens much like Letterkenny , with an introduction of the town and population: “ Recent studies show that Americans long for a simpler life in small towns. To explore these communities, Fox sent a documentary crew to spend time with the citizens of Flatch, Ohio—population 1,526. ” Then, we are introduced to a whole slew of characters to laugh at …or with ... either way. For starters, Stifler from American Pie , also known as Seann William Scott , plays the town minister, who is nothing like Stifler at all. He’s calm, soft-spoken, sincere, naïve … kind of a pushover, if you will, and he’s the one who attempts to guide Kelly and Shrub , who seem to refuse to grow up. And that’s funny. Courtesy of Fox It’s one thing to watch Seann William Scott as Stifler or even as E.L . in Road Trip , but it’s entirely different and funnier to watch him as this humble, pushover minister of a small town. Father Joe , as he’s known, moved to Flatch with his former girlfriend, Cheryl , who is an award-winning journalist and the editor of the local newspaper ... and quite quirky. Other Flatch residents include Kelly’s frenemy Nadine (Taylor Ortega, Succession ), who runs the Flatch Historical Society ; Mickey St. Jean (Justin Linville), who relentlessly attempts to become Shrub’s best friend; and no-nonsense favorite Mandy (Krystal Smith), a magnetic force of nature who lives life on her own terms. In the pilot, she asserts with force, “We are an upstandin’ town and we deserve some damn attention. We got two restaurants—one with menus, and last year somebody gave birth to twins, so now we got young people all over the place.” Then we meet Kelly and Shrub , who are a magnificent comedic duo to watch. Both are extremely talented, funny actors who play off of each other’s timing. Chelsea Holmes , often billed as just Holmes , is a hilariously talented American comedian, actor, and writer, and is also a stand-up comic and improvisational actor. She's definitely one to watch; I adore everything about her. Both she and Shrub are townies who spend their days hatching schemes. Courtesy of Fox And speaking of Shrub , played by the charming Sam Straley ( The Kids are Alright , The Dropout ), we learn from him and Kelly in the pilot just how he got his name. “So, his real name is Lloyd,” says Kelly. “Yeah, after my dad,” adds Shrub. “Yeah, his dad drank a lot of Busch beer, so they started calling him Bush …” and then Shrub chimes in, “Yeah, so they started calling me Shrub for, like, a little bush,” and after a brief pause where Kelly looks at Shrub as he’s looking off in the distance, he adds, “But, like, he left when I was a baby.” They both nod their heads and say, “Yeah,” and then Kelly adds, “But he probably still drinks beer.” Essentially, all Kelly and Shrub have are each other. Kelly’s father is around but has a new wife and baby daughter, so Kelly is virtually non-existent to him until he needs something. But Kelly doesn’t let this phase her trying efforts one bit. She defends him and tries to cozy up to him with no shame whatsoever. And the duo's interaction with the camera is priceless. Much like The Office … the looks, the expressions, the faces, the implications. In an interview with Cincinnati Magazine , Straley talks about the characters he and co-star Holmes play. “I’d say they’re kind of a classic duo, almost like husband and wife in a way. They’re partners for life, they’re best friends, and they want the best, but they also see what’s wrong in the other person and get so frustrated with each other sometimes, but we kind of always come together, because we’re each other’s support system.” He continued, “They’re in their early 20s … sort of at the point in their lives where they should have things together, and everyone around them is getting married and they’re still, I think, clinging on to moments in their lives that brought them acceptance. And they’re really excited about this new documentary crew and having ‘the movie people’ around and feeling seen.” When asked about his and Holmes’s individual characters, he added, “Shrub is, I’d say, more of the feminine to Kelly’s masculinity, which I think isn’t seen a lot on TV. Shrub is sort of the sensitive, artistic, detail-oriented control freak, and Kelly is the no-idea-is-a-bad-idea, throw-everything-at-the-wall-and-see-what-sticks one. And I think their dynamic is very much that they love each other but fight a lot. They cover each other’s gray spots in all the right ways, and they are desperately, desperately trying to find connection and a place where they fit. They’re absolute underdogs, and they’re always looking out for each other.” Underdogs, indeed. Each and every one of ‘em. AND Jaime Pressly ( My Name is Earl ) has joined season two as realtor and OG Flatch native, Barb Flatch . SHE is nothing short of hysterical and is the perfect addition to this little gem of a sitcom, which I hope has many more seasons to come. Courtesy of FOX So, I recommend adding some Flatch to your weekly musings. Yeah, there might be some cheesy jokes or moments that lag, but if you’re not wound too tight, you just might find yourself giggling at every little thing. Like we do at my house. Welcome to Flatch, everybody! Episodes drop Thursdays on Hulu and air the same night on Fox at 8 PM EST. 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

Holland ditches his superhero cape for dark, gritty psychological dramas < Back Cherry & The Crowded Room: Tom Holland in Two Roles You Must See Keeley Brooks Jun 15, 2023 Share Holland ditches his superhero cape for dark, gritty psychological dramas Who doesn’t love the doe-eyed actor that is Tom Holland? I know I sure do, especially because he is the Spider-Man I’ve connected to the most aside from Andrew Garfield. Even then, Holland is still my favorite because of the charm and innocence he brings to the character. Lately, it seems he has taken a liking to Apple TV+ productions, as he’s had two big premieres on the platform in the past two-and-a-half years alone, and you’re gonna want to see him in these gritty roles. Here’s a little bit of info on the film Cherry and his new series The Crowded Room . I highly recommend adding both to your must-watch list immediately. In March 2021, Holland starred in Apple TV’s epic saga Cherry , which recounts an unnamed narrator’s experience with college, love, war, mental health, drugs, felony crime, and redemption. Apple Original Films The film is based on the 2018 debut novel by author Nico Walker , who served as a medic on more than 250 missions in Iraq. As a result, he came home traumatized and battled Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, which subsequently led him down a very dark path that landed him in prison serving an 11-year sentence. While there, he wrote his novel over the course of several years, and days after it published, Marvel filmmakers Joe and Anthony Russo, through their studio AGBO, bought the production rights then signed on to direct and produce the story from a screenplay written by writer/producer/director Jessica Goldberg ( The Path ). The film serves as a work of autofiction, which is a form of fictionalized autobiography combining two mutually inconsistent narrative forms. Holland stars as Cherry --the only name we know him as, a disenfranchised young man from Ohio who meets the love of his life in community college, only to risk losing her through a series of very bad decisions resulting from the madness that PTSD tends to create in trauma survivors. When he tells Emily (Ciara Bravo, of To the Bone ) he loves her, she balks in fear and breaks up with him to attend school in Montreal. Cherry is heartbroken and directionless, so he impulsively enlists in the Army. When Emily returns saying she decided not to go to Canada and wants to stay with him, Cherry can’t get out of his two-year service commitment and winds up doing tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as a combat medic. Seeing this experience through the boyish innocence Holland evokes in such a unique way instills empathy and compassion. The combined efforts of his portrayal and the cinematography allow for a realistic first-hand account of everything this young boy, who is forced to become a man in the blink of an eye, sees, hears, thinks, and feels in his own way. And it's in that way the film becomes very relatable in terms of how we face and digest real-life human struggles. When Cherry returns home, he begins suffering from some horrid PTSD that leads him to a doctor-prescribed Oxycontin dependency, which then turns into a full-blown heroin addiction. When he and Emily reunite, she, too, becomes addicted, and in order to get the money needed to support their rapidly spinning out-of-control habit, Cherry resorts to robbing banks by walking into them and calmly sliding the cashier a one-dollar bill with the words “I HAVE A GUN” written in bold red letters on one side and the words “THIS IS A ROBBERY” written on the other. He enters these banks wearing sometimes just sunglasses and other times a zip-up hoodie or jacket, maybe with a beanie, and he never actually carries a gun; however, that doesn’t mean there are never any casualties. There always are in any type of war, internal or external. Cherry successfully manages to rob 10 banks before getting caught in April 2011 and sentenced to eleven years in federal prison. Apple Original Films This story is heart-wrenching and full of adrenaline, but what captivated me the most was Holland’s performance as he transitioned between child-like innocence and young love to soldier, war veteran, mental health sufferer, drug addict, thief, and federal criminal. He’s a ferociously compact presence throughout the film, which he narrates himself. The most compelling traits of his acting, besides the purity of emotion emanating from his eyes, are his perennially working jaw muscles, which indicate the psychological intensity driving his desperate decisions. The movie is divided into seven epic chapters that include a powerful prologue and epilogue but really it’s split into two parts: war and postwar. Cherry’s life is one of continuous trauma, continuous stress, continuous disorder, and continuous effects. While I won’t spoil it for you and reveal the ending, I will say it does offer some salvation to the titular character while granting him hope and the promise of a new beginning. Holland superbly portrays the psychological toll that war and trauma can take on a person, as he encapsulates every hint of fear, desperation, confusion, and acceptance so effortlessly, you forget you’re watching an actor on screen. Cherry is currently streaming on Apple TV+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5bH6O0bErk As if that wasn’t enough of a psychological exploration for the young actor, now Holland is back in Apple TV’s latest series, a psych-thriller drama series called The Crowded Room , which he not only stars in but also produced. He plays a young man accused of a crime, but the driving question behind this mystery is did he really do it? This adaptation is also loosely based on a true story about a man who was arrested in 1979 for a series of crimes he claims not to have committed. But is that really the truth? Holland plays Danny Sullivan, an introverted teen living with his doing-her-best mess of a mother (Emmy Rossum, of Shameless ) and asshole of a stepfather (Will Chase, of Dopesick ), who never misses an opportunity to corner, harass, threaten, and abuse Danny when his mother isn’t around and sometimes even when she is. Apple TV+ Original At school, Danny has two friends: a jock and a budding magician. He also has a crush on the most popular girl in school, Annabelle (Emma Laird, of Mayor of Kingstown ), but she only likes him back when her friends aren’t around. When Danny realizes this, the heartbreak in his eyes is so palpable, we as viewers feel his deflation, embarrassment, and sadness. Still, it doesn’t stop him from engaging with her when she interacts with him, and it certainly doesn’t scare him off when Annabelle’s jerkoff boyfriend threatens him. Danny is willing to risk anything to share a quiet moment with Annabelle, and he pretty much does just that by seeking weed from a dangerous drug dealer to satisfy her urge to smoke a J together. Right off the bat, Danny is presented as a shy, nerdy teen struggling desperately to find his place in a world of cruelty and bullies. So, what’s the crime? In the pilot episode, Danny is arrested for a shooting that occurs at Rockefeller Center in New York City. We see him holding the gun but freezing when he sees the face of the man he is supposed to shoot. As a result, Danny’s accomplice Ariana (Sasha Lane, of Loki ) grabs the gun and shoots at the intended victim as he scurries away. She winds up shooting several other people in the process, then seemingly disappears into thin air. The cops catch up to Danny and bring him in for questioning, but they begin to suspect that they can't find his accomplice because maybe he killed her, so they bring in Special Investigator Rya Goodman (Amanda Seyfried, of The Dropout ) to interrogate him. What ensues is an unfolding of past and present events through a suspenseful series of carefully deconstructed answers Danny gives to Goodman. It’s here we begin to realize there’s a lot more to him than meets our naked eye , and as the story deepens and exposes more memories, the mystery slowly starts to unravel. Apple TV+ Original The Crowded Room is inspired by the case of Billy Milligan and the book “The Minds of Billy Milligan” by Daniel Keyes. The non-fiction novel recounts Milligan’s case after he was arrested for a series of rapes across an Ohio university campus. Clearly, screenwriter Jessica Goldman took some creative liberties and changed up some key details, but I won’t reveal any more spoilers beyond what I already have! In a recent interview with Extra , Holland said he’s taking the next year off from acting following The Crowded Room ’s strenuous production. “It was a tough time, for sure,” he told Extra. “We were exploring certain emotions that I have definitely never experienced before. And then on top of that, being a producer, dealing with the day-to-day problems that come with any film set, just added that extra level of pressure.” Holland went on to say he loved the learning curve of becoming a producer but juggling two roles on one production while playing a character in a severe mental health state pushed him past his breaking point. “… Then again, the show did break me. There did come a time where I needed a break and disappeared … for a week. … I’m now taking a year off, and that is a result of how difficult this show was. I feel like our hard work wasn’t in vain. … I was seeing myself in Danny, but in my personal life. I remember having a bit of a meltdown at home,” he said. He then further commented on mental health. “Learning about mental health and the power of it, and speaking to psychiatrists about Danny’s and Billy’s struggles, has been something that has been so informative to my own life,” he said, noting he is now able to “recognize triggers” like social media that stress him out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4w1xZA7pX2c Apple TV dropped the series June 9 with a three-episode premiere, which, if you missed them, you can read their full recaps here . The fourth episode premieres Friday, June 16 with subsequent episodes airing every Friday through July 28. So don’t delay: Add Cherry and The Crowded Room to your must-watch list today and experience the star actor like you’ve never seen him before in these two beautifully crafted heavy psychological dramas, currently streaming on Apple TV+. Keeley Brooks is a big ole film and television nerd who watches way too much content, then blabs about it. 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

Seven Kings Must Die < Back The Last Kingdom Finally Gets a Sequel Keeley Brooks Mar 16, 2023 Share Seven Kings Must Die I don’t know about you guys, but I’m a movie enthusiast who LOVES to watch anything that has bloody good ass-whooping in it, whether it be John Wick with his “I’m not f**king around” gun fights and bone breaking, Donnie Yen and Michelle Yeoh flying around with their beautiful but deadly martial arts, or Rocky and Ivan Drago duking it out with some hefty punches right to the kisser. Ask the one person who knows me best, and my husband will tell you I get most excited watching depictions of the ancient brutal fighting styles of early tribes like the Vikings, the Danes, the Saxons, and the Gauls—any historical fighting styles prior to the 12th century, really … the kind featuring bad-ass sword fighting, as well as a host of other deadly weapons like fists, teeth, feet, elbows, heads, knees, bow and arrow, axes, knives, spears, and shields, not guns. What can I say? I love blood and gore, and I love the artistic style behind intelligent fighting (and, yes, the savagery). It’s not only entertaining to watch but it's also full of such visceral, raw emotion that a viewer can’t help but feel its effect through familiarity, at least in emotion. If there’s a movie or series featuring early tribes, you can bet I’m watching it. Multiple times. In fact, as I write this article, I’m rewatching all five seasons of The Last Kingdom , and you should, too. Netflix is dropping a sequel to the series next month, so now’s the time to catch up. When Vikings slammed into the History channel, I was glued to every episode, as I’m sure the rest of America was. I was sad when it ended in 2020, but luckily, I had a chance to remain in that era with the final season of The Last Kingdom , which aired on Netflix shortly thereafter in 2021. I missed this series when it hit the streaming giant in 2015, but I was beyond elated to have found it by 2019. In case you haven’t seen it, don’t worry. I’m about to drop some knowledge on you. The Last Kingdom is a fantastic heartwrenching British historical fiction television series based on Bernard Cornwell’s novel of the same name. Cornwell is an English-American historical fiction author with the penchant for writing historical fiction, besides Philippa Gregory, but her focus is different. It’s the first novel in Cornwell’s “The Saxon Stories” series (2004), which tells how the nation of England began under King Alfred the Great. While the series is spectacular, if I do say so myself, it does not follow the books true to form, and that’s due to things like production value and time. Cromwell’s story introduces us to Uhtred of Bebbanburg (aka Uhtred Uhtredsson and/or Uhtred Ragnarsson), who, as an adult, is played by the very delicious Alexander Dreymon ( American Horror Story ), a German-born actor with yummy, good, womanizing looks. As a young Saxon noble, Uhtred is kidnapped by Danish Vikings and raised as a Dane in Ragnar Ragnarsson’s kingdom, but it’s not the same Ragnar you’re thinking. Different time periods. While in captivity, Uhtred is woven into Danish culture, language, and religion for years before a series of events places him in the service of King Alfred of Wessex, played by the very talented David Dawson, whom you may remember from Peaky Blinders . credit: Netflix And don’t worry if you can’t necessarily understand, remember, or pronounce character names throughout the series. I couldn’t either until I put the captions on, and according to interviews Dreymon did with Collider , Winter is Coming , and YouTube , he and most of the cast couldn’t either! While watching, think of season one as a long preface to everything unraveling between seasons two and five and now, beyond. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxPApTGWwas As a side note, if you’re a Succession fan, Shiv’s husband Tom (Matthew Macfadyen) is in the first half of episode one as Uhtred’s father, Uhtred the Elder and Earl of Bebbanburg. So, that’s fun. Uhtred’s entire journey through life is spent fighting to reclaim his ancestral home of Bebbanburg in the Saxon kingdom of Northumbria (today known as Bamburgh on the Northumberland coastline in England), which leads him into and through the unwavering depths of human emotion as he grapples with his persistently split loyalties between his many oaths, his conflicting cultural identities, and his quest for retribution. credit: Netflix credit: Netflix I won’t spoil everything on the off chance you haven’t seen the series, but by season five, Uhtred and King Edward (Alfred’s son) are at odds with King Constantin of Alba (Scotland), a discerning leader who enjoys rocking the boat that is Northumbria. And while the finale finally does bring Uhtred home, it remains blatantly obvious he has much more to do before laying down his sword and trying to enjoy the rest of his life as a free nobleman. In late October 2021, Netflix announced a sequel to the series. Seven Kings Must Die is a two-hour standalone film set to portray events from Cornwell’s last three “Saxon Stories” novels. Let me be clear here, though: The movie will not cover everything from the last three books, but I suspect it’ll give us the gist of what all goes down. Expect it to pick a few events from the books to emphasize as we follow Uhtred in his attempts to unite England after King Edward’s death, so we’ll see him embroiled in a huge, albeit violent and bloody battle for the crown. “Rival heirs and invaders compete for power,” the film’s official synopsis reads. “And when an alliance comes seeking Uhtred’s help in their plans, Uhtred faces a choice between those he cares for most and the dream of forming a united England.” In the newly released trailer, a character is heard saying, “You know the prophecy, Uhtred? Seven kings die. All of Britain will be united.” So, that explains the title. One thing I can tell you about this film, though, is that there will be blood … lots and lots of blood and a big ole battle full of savagery. Sweet! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqCYw_o5lng While the film is not drawn from the final book in Cornwell’s “Saxon Stories” saga, it is drawn from one of the earlier novels, the sixth book “Death of Kings.” It includes a section where a prophetess predicts a relentlessly gloomy future for Uhtred and King Alfred’s dream of a united England. Says Aelfadell, "Seven kings will die, Uhtred of Bebbanburg, seven kings and the women you love. That is your fate. And Alfred's son will not rule, and Wessex will die, and the Saxon will kill what he loves, and the Danes will gain everything, and all will change, and all will be the same as ever it was and ever will be." The scene was cut from the television series, and according to Den of Geek , that particular passage is framed more as a Danish attempt to unnerve Uhtred than a legit prophecy. But, if you’ve seen The Last Kingdom or read any of the books, you know there are aspects of truth in there. Throughout The Last Kingdom , Uhtred’s lovers often do die, and we’ve seen plenty of kings as well. There’s a good bit of speculation about who, exactly, the seven kings are, but the trailer offers up some hints, as does Reddit . Among those battling for the crown are the late King’s son Aethelstan and the discriminating King Constantin, played by Rod Hallet from Ant Man and The Hitman's Bodyguard . from The Last Kingdom's official Twitter page Netflix also released a first look at a new character making his debut in the movie. Danish leader Ingilmundr is joining the war; he makes his first appearance in “War of the Wolf,” the 11th of Cornwell’s books. He has major influence and will have a big hand in the tragic events that affect Uhtred’s family. There’s a hot chance we’ll all wind up hating him before the story concludes, but one thing’s for sure: He will have a crucially important role. from The Last Kingdom's official Twitter page Now is the perfect time to catch up on the series, regardless of whether you have or haven’t seen it. It’s an incredibly fascinating journey with some very memorable characters, like Brida, Uhtred’s childhood friend in captivity and first love; Father Beocca, a Saxon priest who has known Uhtred since he was a boy and knows his true birthright; and Finan, a lovably fierce Irish warrior sworn to Uhtred. There’s also lots of drama, emotion, love, and savagery. Seven Kings Must Die releases April 14, 2023, on Netflix. After the movie, if you’re craving more historical fiction to watch, I highly recommend getting into Britannia on Epix and Netflix’s Vikings: Valhalla and Barbarians. Vikings: Valhalla is a sequel to the original Vikings series, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yi4YnwFT7Gk and Barbarians is about a Roman officer’s conflicted allegiances that lead to an epic historical clash and the rebellion of the Germanic tribes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cA7kwBSUaU Britannia originally started out as an Amazon Prime series in 2018 but was acquired by Epix in 2020. It is set in A.D. 43 when the Romans invaded Britain led by General Aulus Plautius, who is determined to succeed where Julius Caesar failed and conquer this mythical land at the very end of the Roman Empire. In it you’ll see Yellowstone favorite Kelly Reilly (Beth Dutton), Mackenzie Crook from the Pirates of the Caribbean movies (you’ll love his character; he’s captivating!), and The Walking Dead Governor from season three David Morrissey. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhDAFAbv9e0 Alright, entertainment enthusiasts, get to entertaining yourself with some ancient historical fiction adaptations and be sure to let your voice mail pick up any calls. You’ll thank me later. 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

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

Coming together to celebrate the summer solstice < Back Festival of Litha Returns to Downtown Florence in June Keeley Brooks May 18, 2023 Share Coming together to celebrate the summer solstice Summer is right around the corner, and with it comes all of those highly anticipated festivals full of food, fun, music, and crafts. Returning to downtown Florence, Ala., for the third consecutive year is the increasingly popular Festival of Litha, hosted by Hesperia Mystic Shoppe out of Sheffield, Alabama. Last year, the festival was held in Wilson Park in Florence and featured dozens of local vendors and live music over the course of three days. This year, the event will feature close to 80 vendors and will be held on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at a new location: The Historic Sweetwater Depot located at 502 S Royal Avenue in downtown Florence. “I have felt drawn to this historic area of Florence,” says Hesperia owner Kendall Gilchrist, “and I am happy to introduce an event to bring more attention to this side of town that holds cute little restaurants.” The festival is a FREE family friendly event that runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and locals are invited to come out and enjoy some great food, local arts/crafts/goods, and live music by local and surrounding-area musicians. courtesy of Hesperia Mystic Shoppe Litha (pronounced Lee-tha) is the celebration of the summer solstice and the beginning of Summer, which occurs this year on Wednesday, June 21. It has been a celebration amongst many cultures for many, many years but its origins are rooted in Celtic lore. Litha is said to be a time to celebrate the power of nature and its fertility, as the solstice represents the transition from action to nourishment, which is exactly what the sun gives us during the long nights of Summer. Even in those who do not mark the summer solstice, there is an internal flame within when the days get longer, and the sun leads us through better times. By celebrating the sun and the power it provides to all nature, humans are spiritually ignited and thus connected to its life force. For those familiar with the Eastern concepts of yin and yang, the solstice is a time of maximum yang—the longest day of the year. “This year,” says Gilchrist, “people can expect more of a market feel with bits of entertainment for both adult and kids alike. There will be food, live music, and a bar inside the Depot where you can cool off. We currently have around 80 vendors this year—such growth from around 25 in previous years!” courtesy of Hesperia Mystic Shoppe Vendors will be placed inside and outside The Depot, with many vendors selling metaphysical-themed arts and crafts as well as candles, bath and body goods, jewelry, books, and so much more. “I've always been community-driven, I just couldn't figure out for a long time what I could do to bring together like-minded individuals and support small businesses like myself,” adds Gilchrist. “It feels good to see others succeed in doing something they love, and I get to witness that at each festival I do now. I'm happy to support these local vendors as they have supported me in so many ways. I hope each of my vendors gain more and more confidence in what they do because some have never had their craft out for the world to see. There are such beautiful, talented, gifted crafters and creators in this area! I'm so glad I can provide a safe space for them.” As far as the music goes, this year will feature live performances from jazz/funk/blues/rock multi-instrumentalist Charles Brooks, singer/songwriter Bryson Bishop, and pop-rock duo Thrice Sovereign. Charles Brooks (by Rachel Neal), Bryson Bishop (social media), Thrice Sovereign (by Amanda Chapman) Kicking off the live music at 4:30 p.m. will be Dr. Charles Brooks , UNA Entertainment Industries professor and a multi-instrumentalist across a slew of genres. He is most known for his wicked four-mallet jazz vibraphone skills, but he is also a classically trained percussionist who plays drum set, piano, hand drums, synth keytar, and acoustic guitar, to name a few. For Litha, he’ll be rocking faces off with the synth keytar as heard below in this year’s Black History Month tribute to Stevie Wonder. For more on Charles Brooks, visit www.TheCharlesBrooks.com . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0R2OK689L2U Bryson Bishop will take the stage at 5:30 p.m. He is a Shoals-area singer/songwriter who will keep you entertained with some of your favorite covers from artists like James Brown, Michael Jackson, and so many others, and you might just hear an original song or two in his mix. To check out Bryson's beautiful singing, visit him on Facebook and Instagram . courtesy of Bryson Bishop Music social media Up next around 6 p.m. will be Florence-area singer/songwriter Aaron Dean . courtesy Aaron Dean social media And closing out the music for the evening at 6:30 p.m. will be Thrice Sovereign , a Florence-based pop-rock female duo comprised of multi-instrumentalist Kristen Borden Talcott and singer/songwriter Amanda Lee Borden Talcott, who recently released their title single from their debut album “Waiting to Thunder.” Their songs are groovy tunes composed in a popular style that draws on heavy guitar riffs and the fat, distorted sounds of hark rock with artistically relatable lyrics. You certainly won’t want to miss the energy! For more on them, visit www.ThriceSovereign.com . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vIa7bn3Klg Festival of Litha isn’t all Gilchrist has in the works for this. year, though. On Tuesday, May 23, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Hesperia Mystic Shoppe and Lava Room will partner to host Brooklyn-based goth-folk musical duo Charming Disaster with a pop-up shops experience full of metaphysical items in downtown Florence on Mobile Street in support of the band. The duo will perform from 8-9:30 p.m. inside the Lava Room, and blue-cup cocktail drinks will be served alongside a delicious menu. You can even take the blue cups out onto Mobile Street to accompany you in your shopping. Charming Disaster will also be selling their merch after the show. Says Gilchrist, “Overall, it will just be a fun evening to get out midweek and take a break from it all!” So, mark your calendars, people in the Shoals area! The Charming Disaster Pop-Up Shops Experience happens Tuesday, May 23, from 6-10 p.m. at the Lava Room , and Festival of Litha happens Sunday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. There’s even a new Halloween festival coming this year, courtesy of Kendall Gilchrist and Hesperia Mystic Shoppe, but you’ll have to stay tuned for that. I promise to bring you everything you need to know about Samhain Horror Night closer to October! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

More Than a Petty Betty < Back Team Gwen: Erica is the Next Voice You Need to Win! Nicole Brice Oct 29, 2022 Share More Than a Petty Betty Erica Calle possesses a timeless beauty. One which invokes memories and feelings for years gone by. With her big tulle skirts, pageboy hairstyle, and Riot grrrl personality, Erica channels all the old Hollywood glamour into a complete package for 2022’s local music scene. Credit: Gary Governale Known locally as the frontwoman of Petty Betty , a popular novelty band in South Louisiana , Erica is known to bring “ it ” when belting out tunes such as ' Johnny B. Goode ' and other favorites. With a booming and boisterous voice combined with a larger-than-life persona, Erica truly exemplifies what it means to be a star. Surrounded by some of the most talented musicians on the scene, Erica credits the men behind her as the ones to inspire and push her to the limits vocally. Credit: Gary Governale The band, Petty Betty , is comprised of Tony Busby (guitar), T-Mike Galliano (bass & vocals), and Chris Lyons (drums), as well as the gorgeous Erica Calle (lead vocals). Petty Betty is a music group native to Baton Rouge with over 50+ combined years of experience in music & entertainment. With upbeat lyrics and catchy music, they bring the party when they perform. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQrbR0JkUKU Red, Rock, & Blue 2022 Erica started singing when she was very young, but says, “Starting out, I wasn’t any good and I sounded like a drowning cat.” Credit: Gary Governale Well, folks, those days of sounding like a drowning feline are sure over because this leading lady has some of the best pipes in and around Baton Rouge , AND she even auditioned to be on the national TV show The Voice at 22 years of age. At the audition, she made it through the first round of the pre-auditions and ended up getting a nasty cold but managed to push through, which afterwards damaged her vocal cords. She was unable to sing for a while after that, but by doing karaoke, she was able to retrain her voice to do what she wanted. Once the pieces fell into place, Petty Betty was formed. Inspired by Blues and Swing music, Erica credits her look and vocal stylings to the music that she adored as a child, such as Cab Calloway , Buddy Guy , Etta James , and Ella Fitzgerald , and she has said, “I was born at the wrong time.” Credit: Gary Governale When we asked Erica who she is digging these days musically she replied with, “ Kaleo ! I just LOVE their music!” When asked about her personal style, Erica said, “Thankfully the group of guys that I work with each bring their own unique style and ideas that makes for an amazing blend. Personally, I love Rockabilly but sometimes will add a Stevie Nicks look to my wardrobe so I can change it up a bit.” Credit: Gary Governale “Bettie Page definitely influences my stage look, but I try to look towards the strong female lead singers such as Jinjer , The Pretty Reckless , Bishop Briggs , and Halestorm as far as their energy/persona. I like to blend vintage and current rock vibes for my look.” Credit: Gary Governale Petty Betty has quite a following, and you can rest assured that if they are playing a show, it will be packed. The energy from every member of the band radiates throughout all performances with none being stale or boring. Their on-stage energy is so infectious that you’ll end up wanting to be on stage just to experience the party with them. When asked if Petty Betty has plans to record any original material in the future, Erica has said, “We would love to pursue some originals! I wake up in the middle of the night to write down lyrics that just pop into my head, and we’ve played around with a few song ideas, BUT we would really need to slow down to focus on it properly.” Catch Petty Betty LIVE in and around Baton Rouge and be sure to visit their social media accounts to show some love. October 30 - 52nd Annual Parish Fall Fest in Denham Springs 2-4pm November 4 - TrickShots Sports Bar in Denham Springs 9pm November 5 - Boudreaux & Thibodeaux's in Baton Rouge 10pm November 12 - Mike Bruno's Harley Davidson in Baton Rouge 1-4pm November 12 - Big Mike's Sports Bar & Grill in Denham Springs 9pm Erica Calle - YouTube Petty Betty LIVE | Facebook Petty Betty fan club | Facebook Petty Betty (@pettybettylive) • Instagram photos and videos *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? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

It was a set of perfectly balanced fresh material. < Back Pop Evil Delivers Old and New at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park on April 2 Jeff Crespi Apr 4, 2026 Share It was a set of perfectly balanced fresh material. Pop Evil stormed through The Stone Pony on Thursday, April 2, 2026, and absolutely did not disappoint. With their new album, What Remains , out, the band hit the stage in full force, delivering a set that perfectly balanced fresh material with the old-school favorites longtime fans came to hear. Credit: Jeff Crespi The energy in the room was electric from start to finish—I even spotted someone in the ADA section up and jumping along, which says everything about the atmosphere that night. Having photographed and followed these guys for years, I can honestly say they continue to raise the bar every time . Their consistency, professionalism, and connection with the crowd make them one of the most reliable live acts out there. Opening the night was Kamenar , a two-piece independent hard rock band made up of twin brothers Sean and John . Hailing from Tampa, Florida , they brought an explosive level of energy that instantly grabbed the crowd’s attention. Their musicianship is tight, their stage presence is animated, and their sound hits just as hard as bands twice their size. Credit: Jeff Crespi I had the chance to catch them previously at the Wonder Bar , so I knew what they were capable of—but they still managed to exceed expectations . What really stands out, though, is their appreciation for their fans . After their set, they made time to connect with the crowd, which never goes unnoticed. Bands like Kamenar are exactly why it pays to show up early and catch every opener. You never know when you’ll discover your next favorite act along the way. In the meantime, check out the latest from Pop Evil called What Remains . Every song is a hit, and hearing the songs live made me appreciate them even more. The album was released in 2025, but they recently dropped a Midnight Edition of the record on March 27, 2026 . Be sure to stream it now! *All photos by Jeff Crespi www.jeffcrespirocks.com JEFFCRESPIROCKS See through a different lens! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

New Orleans, LA April 20, 2024 < Back Southern Happenings: Kriss Russ, JAYD3D!, and Coma Nights at the Howlin Wolf Rian Nickels Apr 24, 2024 Share New Orleans, LA April 20, 2024 On April 20th, 2024, The Howlin' Wolf —named after legendary bluesman Chester Burnett—hosted an unforgettable night of music featuring Louisiana artists Kris Russ , JAYD3D! , and Coma Nights . The evening's weather was just right, creating a comfortable setting that complemented the venue's cozy and intimate atmosphere. With its open layout and small stage, The Howlin' Wolf provided a space where the audience could feel a close connection to the performers. This iconic venue has a rich history, known for hosting an impressive array of blues and jazz musicians over the years. Alongside those greats, The Howlin' Wolf has also welcomed crowd favorites like Mac Miller, Chance the Rapper, and Twenty One Pilots, making it a staple in the New Orleans music scene. The combination of historical significance and contemporary talent made this night a true celebration of the spirit of music. Credit: Rian Nickels The first musician to hit the stage was solo act Kris Russ from Kenner, Louisiana. Kris has a voice with range that floated through the crowd and echoed from The Den room into the bar room of the Howlin’ Wolf. His angelic vocals brought an intimate, almost ethereal quality to the venue, captivating everyone in attendance. His dexterity of the guitar is unmistakable, with each chord he strums resonating deep within the hearts of the audience. His songs, filled with themes of getting older, love, and saving the world, carried a raw emotional depth that drew listeners into his world. In-between singing he gave us emotional monologues that pulled at our heart strings with backstory to his music, such as with his songs “If we knew then what we know now” and “ It’s too dangerous to go alone so take me ” proving that Kris Russ is more than just a performer—he's a storyteller with a gift for connecting on a deeply personal level. Kris placed us in the atmosphere of emotional healing and gave us the feeling of being understood. After his twelve song setlist, the audience was left awe-inspired and he gave a warming introduction to the next band, Coma Nights . Credit: Rian Nickels The four-piece, Coma Nights , burst onto the stage with an energy that transformed the venue from a mellow acoustic set into a lively full band performance. Their dynamic entrance immediately awoke the crowd, bringing everyone to their feet and into motion. The lead vocalist’s notes soared above the beating rhythm of the drums and the melodic riffs of the guitar and bass, showcasing a vocal range that commanded attention. The band played with remarkable synchronization, each member seamlessly aligned with the others, as if they were of one mind. As they launched into their hits like "Weekend Neighbors," "Paint," and "Storm," the audience was swept up in the pulsating beats, dancing and jumping along with infectious enthusiasm. Coma Nights demonstrated that a great band isn't just about individual talent—it's about the synergy of musicians in harmony. As they played their 10 song setlist they warmed up the audience for JAYD3D! to perform his debut album, “ Outstanding Gentlemen ”. Credit: Rian Nickels JAYD3D! took the stage with a vibe that defied categorization. His sound—a fusion of hip hop, pop punk, rap, and alternative—drew an intimate crowd eager to experience his debut album, " Outstanding Gentlemen ." As he started his set, the lighting shifted dramatically from moody and subtle to lively flashes of strobes and color, thanks to our buddy Justin, from the band Jean Claude Segal , who took over the light board on a whim and may have discovered some of his own hidden talent. JAYD3D! , along with his drummer Ty, delivered a high-energy performance that resonated with the crowd's spirit. They had the crowd going through the motions of singing, jumping, and even slow dancing. Together, they brought The Den to life and everyone together with upbeat odes to transitioning into adulthood, falling in love, and melancholic optimism. The 14 song setlist was a perfect mix of originals and his own twist on nostalgic covers. JAYD3D! played pop hits like "If It Makes You Happy" and "Bubbly," adding his signature moody pop punk twist that infused the familiar tunes with a raw, energetic edge. Along with his unique covers, JAYD3D! sang songs from “ Outstanding Gentlemen ” such as, “Three Hour Walks” and “Outstanding Fighter”. The audience, a mix of close friends, fellow musicians, and curious newcomers, were captivated by his seamless transitions and genre-blending artistry. JAYD3D! 's performance proved that music isn't about fitting into a box—it's about breaking free of the mainstream conformity and creating something new and exciting. With his vibrant stage presence and innovative sound, he turned The Den into a dynamic celebration of music, creativity, and did not fail to make us feel alive. Credit: Rian Nickels Overall, this night at The Howlin' Wolf demonstrated the venue's versatility and its ability to bring together a wide range of musical talents. It was a celebration of Louisiana's rich music scene and a testament to the power of live performance in connecting artists and audiences. *All photos by Rian Nickels www.rianmusicjpeg.myportfolio.com Rian Haynsworth 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 . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

The philosophy of the Saw franchise and its iconic serial killer mastermind John Kramer cuts deep beneath the surface into the realm of Nietzschean nihilism. < Back The Philosophy of John Kramer and the Saw Franchise, Part 1: Film Analysis Ezekiel Kincaid Oct 19, 2023 Share The philosophy of the Saw franchise and its iconic serial killer mastermind John Kramer cuts deep beneath the surface into the realm of Nietzschean nihilism. In 2004, Director James Wan introduced us to a new kind of horror icon with the release of Saw : John Kramer, aka Jigsaw. In case you haven’t seen Saw , here’s what you should know: It’s one of the best and highest-grossing horror franchises of all time, having become a pop culture phenom that expanded into various other films, video games, comic books, theme park attractions, music, and tons of merch … and there’s even a Saw television series rumored to be in development at Lionsgate Television . The Saw series revolves around serial killer mastermind John “Jigsaw” Kramer and his apprentices, who are actually victims he traps in life-threatening scenarios that he refers to as tests or games. It’s up to the victim to decide what their scenario will be. What makes Jigsaw different from other horror icons like Freddy, Michael, Jason, and Pinhead is that John doesn’t kill for the thrill. in fact, he claims he’s never killed anyone at all. He simply gives people a choice. “Live or die. Make your choice,” is uttered more than once from him through the Saw franchise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zaANSeQ3La4 As the storyline progresses, we find out more about what makes Jigsaw tick and why he does what he does in capturing people and putting them in traps. Immediately, Saw ’s storyline taps into our empathy, and in a weird, way we understand where he is coming from. Franchise creators James Wan and Leigh Whannell humanize Jigsaw and make us sympathetic to his plight, and they do so well with tapping into our psyche, that while watching the movies, we actually cheer for John Kramer at times. Saw features excellent storytelling, great tension, and creates so many moral gray areas , you can’t help but walk away from these movies thinking deeply about ethics, philosophy, and morality . This is because John Kramer thinks he has found the way to rehabilitate people and that is by placing them in traps that, if they survive, will help them walk away with a new appreciation for life. So, this topic will be a four-part series, but with this first part , I’m going to do something vastly different from the other film reviews to which you guys have become so accustomed. You’re used to seeing the snarky, sarcastic Zeke who enjoys making you laugh by subjecting myself to some terrible B movies. But behind the smart-mouthed persona, I have a deep intellectual and philosophical bent consisting of three degrees in theology, and with those degrees came lots of courses in philosophy. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that I would take a special interest in the Saw franchise. Besides The Evil Dead , Phantasm, and The Conjuring universe, the Saw movies are by far my favorites in the horror genre. Cracking the Philosophical Code of Saw and John Kramer I’m so taken by the Saw movies that I have spent years watching and rewatching them, meticulously taking notes and trying to figure out where John Kramer falls on the philosophical spectrum. After years of research and comparing Jigsaw to numerous philosophical thoughts, I believe I have cracked the code. Now, I don’t know if Wan and Whannell ever had this in mind when they thought up Kramer’s character, so I cannot speak to their intent. All I have to go with is how John Kramer is portrayed in the movies. That being said, I believe that John Kramer’s philosophy fits squarely within the realm of Nietzsche's nihilism. Let’s unpack this theory and compare Kramer to Nietzsche, shall we? Over the years, I have read numerous articles arguing how the Saw franchise is ethically convoluted. On the surface it can seem this way, and I will be the first to admit it. However, instead of just making a broad, sweeping statement, I believe once we take a deeper look, it all begins to make sense, especially once we look at it through the eyes of Nietzschean nihilism, which can be subdivided into two categories: passive nihilism and radical nihilism. The complexity surrounding John Kramer exists because, ironically, he falls into both categories. This would explain why, on a cursory viewing, the Saw franchise’s ethics seem to be disjointed. Indeed, what comes out of Jigsaw’s mouth at times is hypocritical, but when seen in this new light, they are not confused. Before we jump neck-deep into the world of philosophy, I want to assure my readers of something. I know not everyone has a philosophy background, and I know as soon as someone mentions the word “philosophy” it can be intimidating. Though I have all these theological degrees, I assure you I’m just a blue-collar redneck at heart. I promise to make this understandable and not use lofty jargon, and for the times I have to, I will define the words. Feel better? Good! Let’s continue. First, let’s define nihilism : It basically summarizes a family of thought that says life is meaningless . It rejects all religious and moral principles, including the fundamental aspects of human existence. It is skeptical of all human knowledge, morals, and religious ideologies. Nietzsche , the father of modern nihilistic thought, took this category and divided it into two parts: passive and radical. In talking about nihilism in his book " The Will to Power" (1967), Nietzsche defines a nihilist as someone “who judges of the world as it is that it ought not be and of the world as it ought to be that it does not exist.” To put it in blue-collar terms, all he is saying is that because purpose and meaning in life is unknowable, the nihilist cannot accept the world as it is. Understanding nihilism is extremely important if we are going to make sense of Jigsaw's morality, since it is his morality that drives the Saw franchise. In fact, when we view his morality through this lens, it shows us how coherent Jigsaw’s moral mission is in his own mind and to those of us watching the franchise unfold. I have read other critics who call John Kramer a monster and comment how the film does damage to viewers because it promotes a mindset that is against modern ethics. Sure, I can see how and why the critics would say this, but their criticism doesn’t hold up once we firmly place Kramer in the camp of nihilism. As I will unpack in this series, Kramer’s moral quest is not to save other people and leave behind some immortal legacy ; rather, what Jigsaw wants to do is more destructive. His aim is to destroy the world as is by changing the world around him. This, my friends, is nihilism. Viewing Jigsaw through nihilist eyes shows us that following the loss of his unborn son and a failed suicide attempt, he seeks to destroy himself. How so? Go back and watch the Saw franchise. Have you ever noticed that Jigsaw’s victims MIRROR his own obsessive traits? This is what I am going to break down for you moving forward. We’ll look at passive and radical nihilism, their differences, their similarities, and how Jigsaw fits within both these paradigms. My goal is not to categorize John Kramer but to give us a lens to view the movies through to make sense of his morals and mission. So, for the next few articles, sit back, get your Saw movies queued up, and let good ole Uncle Zeke take you on a magic philosophical carpet ride. Stay tuned as we cut deeper beneath the surface in Part 2 of The Philosophy of John Kramer. 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

A woman who knows what she wants < Back Lauren “Madame Onça” O’Leary: A Mind for Art, Business, and Entertainment Tim W. Jackson May 23, 2023 Share A woman who knows what she wants Her website is HardestWorkingWomanInShowBusiness.com , and that’s an apt description for Lauren “Madame Onça” O’Leary. She’s an artist, entertainer, and businesswoman—and under each category is an entire sublist. Originally from Gloucester, Massachusetts, the town from the hit 2000 movie The Perfect Storm , Onça’s life has been somewhat of a perfect storm of activities and interests while striving for some sort of work-life balance. She’s spent much of her adult life further south, namely in Asheville, North Carolina, and now in Richmond, Virginia, and has frequently worked in Europe. But while in Gloucester, she says the region was richly supplied with famous artists. “Walker Hancock, who made the giant angel that is in the Philadelphia train station, was one of the monument men,” Onça says. ”My mom grew up with his kid. I used to model in their studio. Leon Kroll was a famous painter. Weirdly, there was this very powerful arts community there in the older generation. So, I grew up just thinking it was normal to go in and out of people's art studios to see old people hard at work on art that was gonna end up in museums. There is a really good literary tradition there, too.” Onça went to a liberal arts school that deepened her interest in the arts and normalized that world for her. “As a rising eighth grader, there was a girl with short hair carrying a cello across the campus. It was normal. They weren't gonna get beat up, you know?” Her parents also played a major role in her development but from two very different perspectives. Her father was a musician. Her mother was a master sign painter and an outstanding self-trained artist. “I grew up with a lot of art in a very art-rich area,” Onça says. “Even though I had a working-class upbringing, there was a lot of art in the environment. So, it was natural to me to always express through art.” credit: Boo It was the very different work ethics of her parents, though, that Madame Onça still tried to reconcile. “My dad ended his life living in a car because he was like, ‘I don't wanna work hard,’” Onca says. “My life has been a continuous course correction between these two very artistic people—one of whom worked herself to death, basically, and the other one who just slipped away because he didn't want to engage in the rat race. And because of that, his voice was largely unheard. So, for me, it's always been a matter of trying to figure out how to embody the best of my mom's work ethic without becoming a servant to it.” When you have as many talents and interests as Onça does, keeping a work-life balance is a constant challenge. She has staged more than 40 weekend-long festivals over the course of her career. One of the most famous, the Asheville Burlesque and Sideshow Festival , also known as ABSFest, makes its return this Memorial Day weekend after a brief pandemic-related hiatus. She and husband Paolo Garbanzo (also a festival producer and one who will perform at ABSFest) have run a number of events in Europe, too, and have more on the schedule. credit: Parrish Photography Her foray into this eclectic career began in Asheville. “I never saw myself being a performer,” Onça says, “although I always had a big energy.” She started taking Capoeira (a Brazilian sport that combines dance as well as fighting elements) classes in Asheville. “Brazilian foot fighting is actually the thing that gave me my start,” she says with a laugh. “That's where my name comes from, Onça; it's actually Brazilian. And then in order to play Capoeira, in order to do Capoeira, you have to sing and train and fight and build your own musical instruments. It's so immersive that I feel like the time I spent doing Capoeira prepared me for everything else. And then I ran a folk-art studio in Asheville for many years, the Future Traditions Center for Folkloric Arts.” About the Center, Onça explains that it had different cultural artists and fine artists all under one roof. “It really gave me the opportunity to bloom in all directions,” she says. “I grew up in a musical and artsy household, but it never occurred to me that I could do it for a living. Just walking into the right class at the right time opened all the doors for me. I started taking belly dancing classes in Asheville above the co-op, and it changed my life. I needed something to do, and it set me on a path.” Onça works in other art forms, too. “I paint and sculpt and do print art,” she says. Years ago under her real name, Lauren O’Leary, she co-authored The World Spirit Tarot and illustrated it entirely with 79 original color block-prints. credit: Isaac Harrell “I mostly have written tarot-related articles and texts,” she explains, “and I was a touring belly dancer, so I've written lots of articles in that industry. I've always pretty much just written in my fields, but abundantly.” Onça, also a lover of witchy things and most everything non-mainstream, certainly stays busy but she has learned some key tips for survival over the years. “If I was trying to do all of the things every day, there wouldn't be enough time in a day to practice singing, practice piano, practice ukulele, organize an event, teach a tarot class, make a piece of art, organize a tour,” she says. “I couldn't put all of that in a day and still take care of my family.” She likens her work schedule to the agricultural year. “It’s a seasonal thing,” she says. “I've moved out of the winter season when you're in more of an introspective space anyway. That's when I get to turn inward: make music, practice instruments, do more visual art. Now we're coming to the season where I'm gonna be out and about doing events with people, travel, all that stuff. There's a rhythm to the agricultural year. You can't say, ‘Today I want to harvest because there's nothing to harvest in January. And that's how it is for me, with the creative process, you just have to understand there are times when you're creating, there are times when you're workshopping things and it's messy. There are times when you're polishing things so that other people can enjoy them. There are times when, frankly, 50% of being a professional creative is office work.” Her system obviously has been successful. She has an ability to create a magical atmosphere on stage and connect with her audience in a powerful and mesmerizing way but she's also a teacher and mentor to many young performers, helping them hone their skills and develop their own unique style. She's known for her generosity and kindness, always willing to lend an ear or offer advice to those in need. “I think one of the big challenges, particularly for women, is that if you don't grow up in the business background, then the challenge is you come into the arts filled with love and passion for art but no idea how to keep art alive, honest, and collaborative,” Onça explains. “I see women coming into business, self-made women, struggle a lot with ‘This was fun, so why does it now feel competitive? Why is there drama?’ I feel like a lot of that drama comes up because you come to something with love and passion and then are surprised if you don't have an infrastructure of how budgets work and how spreadsheets work and how contracts work. If I had a piece of advice for somebody, I would say if you're artistically inclined, study business so that you can make a living as an artist.” Another key to success, she says, is finding your tribe and getting the proper support. “I'm very lucky,” she adds. “I feel very well supported. They may not even be artistic in the same way that you are, but just finding other people in your life who understand what it is to be a maker or a doer or whatever your thing is. Are you a person who just really wants to have goats or you're a person who really just wants to hike? Are you a person who wants to go to music festivals? Whatever your thing is, finding other people who can understand the merit of making some space in your life for your passion, I feel like, is a huge part of mental health.” As part of that nod toward mental health, Onça warns about the cult of busyness that glorifies the hustle. “The hustle is not the point,” Onça says. “Being busy isn't the point. Making the art, relationships, or life that you want is the point. I had a therapist once say, ‘You have permission to not always do the hardest thing.’ Treat yourself as kindly as you would anyone else who came to you for advice.” Onça's impact on the burlesque world can't be overstated. Her impact in so many areas and on so many people cannot be measured. Through it all, she's remained true to her vision and her art, and her influence can be seen in the work of countless performers around the world. credit: Isaac Harrell Madame Onça is a true artist who has dedicated her life to her many talents and to sharing those talents with others. Long into the future, she’ll be known as a trailblazer, a mentor, and a friend to many. For more on Madame Onça, visit https://HardestWorkingWomanInShowbusiness.com . Questions or comments? Are you an artist looking for some feature love? Hit us up at the_keeleybrooks@mixedaltmag.com . Tim Jackson is a seasoned journalist and author with a penchant for all things dark, macabre, and somewhat sinister. He lives in Tuscumbia, Ala., with his artist wife and their remote-chewing dog, Maple. 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

NOLA blues musician Eric Johanson takes his distinctive, intoxicating sound on the road, kicking off his “Don’t Hold Back” tour in North Alabama. < Back Eric Johanson: A Distinctive Blues Musician with an Intoxicating Sound Bud Gambrell Jan 30, 2024 Share NOLA blues musician Eric Johanson takes his distinctive, intoxicating sound on the road, kicking off his “Don’t Hold Back” tour in North Alabama. New Orleans blues musician Eric Johanson recently embarked on his maiden headlining tour, kicking off his first show in Decatur, Alabama. Eric’s style of music cannot be classified into one category, as he is about more than traditional blues. His songs are steeped in the blues, but he also includes the influence of rock, funk, soul, and a little bit of Louisiana style. Born in Alexandria, Louisiana, Eric now calls New Orleans home and uses his travels abroad to gather the many influences that give him a distinctive and intoxicating sound. With the release of his new album, “The Deep and The Dirty,” the power trio sets out to make a name for themselves. Opening Night of the 2024 “Don’t Hold Back Tour” kicked off this past Saturday, January 27, at The Princess Theatre in Decatur. The power trio gave all that they had to please the undersized crowd. Led by guitar slinger Eric Johanson, the band laid into two sets running just over two hours. Eric hit the road in support of his 2023 release The Deep and The Dirty . While playing plenty of tracks from the new album, the evening had a generous helping of tracks from Eric’s previous releases. While Eric was in town, Mixed Alternative had the chance to sit down and have a chat with this brilliant guitar wizard. Read our conversation below! MaM : Your current tour, Don’t Hold Back , starts tonight in Decatur, Alabama. How do you feel about your upcoming tour which is your first headlining tour? EJ : We've certainly had headline dates out there, but this is the first time we're hitting a lot of these venues in a row to headline, so it's exciting! It's really good to be getting back out there and playing for the people. It's always nice when you headline the shows. You can play more material and stretch out. Credit: Bud Gambrell MaM : Since this is your debut headlining tour, is there anything that you are out to accomplish? EJ : We're just wanting to get out there and see folks that maybe heard us online and haven't gotten a chance to see us yet. The live show is really what it's all about for me. It's where the music takes on a life of its own. And you know we never play things the same way twice. There's always improvisation involved and we try to change up the set so we're hoping to see some familiar faces and also turn on some new folks to the to the live experience. Credit: Bud Gambrell MaM : Is there anything that you can tell a newcomer, like myself, on what to expect from an Eric Johanson show? EJ : Well, my music is heavily [influenced by the blues], but it kind of is a little broader than that. It has elements of rock and funk and has that Louisiana influence, and also a little bit of the jam band-like The Allman Brothers-type vibe in there. I don't like to keep it in a box but basically, it's a power trio and we perform mostly all original material from the albums that I've released. Credit: Bud Gambrell MaM : What can we expect to hear on the setlist? EJ : I'll play stuff from all three of the studio releases. I play a couple of things that came out on the ‘Covered Tracks’ releases sometimes, but honestly, these days, a lot of times, I don't write out a set list and we just kind of go with the feeling. I've found that it keeps it more on the edge of our toes to just come up with the next song based on what the moment feels like and the energy that we're getting from the crowd. So a lot of the time I'm really coming up with the set on the spot, but it's always a mix of the original tunes from my three records and you know occasionally we'll throw an old blues tune in there or an old New Orleans tune. MaM : This is a return trip for you to The Princess Theater. I understand the last stop had an interesting mishap. EJ : Yeah, the last time I was there something happened with a breaker or something and the PA went out for a little bit, and I actually ended up just sitting on the edge of the stage and singing acoustically to the room for a couple of songs while they got the PA back up. (laughs) And it actually was a cool moment and a testament to the sound of the room itself. It is a great-sounding theater. Credit: Bud Gambrell MaM : 2024 is looking to be a bright year for you: You just released the tour dates for Europe, as well as a new music video for “Just Like New”, and you are kicking off a tour tonight in support of the new album “The Deep and The Dirty”. In 2023, the album debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues chart. How did you feel when you received the phone call giving you the news that it debuted in the top spot? EJ : It feels good! I mean you don't want to get too hung up on things like that, but it definitely is a nice feeling. When you're working on a record you just want to make the best thing that you can make. I want to make something like the music that I want to hear but I can't find or, you know, just something I would want to listen to. You really don't know how people are going to respond to it. So, when you get the news that it's not only sold well but that it's debuting at the top of the genre, it kind of gives you some … feeling like [you’re] onto something. You know what I mean? You just don't know. All you can do is what you think sounds good and it's been great to see other people getting into it. The album is not traditional blues, it's experimental. But I like to think that it's organic, it's raw, it's honest. And if people will respond to that it’s everything. It's great to see it charting and it's been great to hear peoples feedback and reactions to it. We're still excited, man! It's been out for about half a year now and so a lot of people these days get turned onto music through word of mouth. People are still discovering it all the time and it's just cool to see it kind of having legs. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUwUD92mLlY MaM: You've been in the music business for several years now, and obviously the music business is evolving. What are your thoughts on the state of the music industry today, especially with the invention of digital music. Where do you stand on all that? EJ : Well, it's kind of a mixed blessing because you don't really make any money from the streaming. I mean, some people will make the argument that you can, but it's such an enormous amount. Millions of people have to be streaming the music for you to make minimum wage. It's basically just a way for people to discover music, but it's not really a money maker for most of us. But that said, you know it really allows for a whole lot more people to find music that they might be interested in. … Back in the day, if you weren't on the radio, if you weren't on MTV, then only your buddies that passed on a tape were going know about your music. I think it's good that there's so much diversity of music out there and that there is a way to put your art out there no matter what. It kind of is what it is. Thankfully, there are still people that are buying physical copies of music, whether it's with vinyl coming back or whether it's people that are buying CDs. Some people buy CDs, and I don't even know if they're playing them in a CD player or if it's just something to sign. But thankfully there are still people that do that because the merchandise table on tour is really how it all works. Without that, it's pretty hard to tour. I would prefer that there was a way to still encourage people to buy records. These days it's hard to even figure out how to buy a record on iTunes. It's all just streaming now, but you know there's not a whole lot that you can do to turn back the clock on that. I just try to look at it as it's a way that people can discover new music and hopefully, they'll come to a show and … buy a T-shirt or vinyl or a CD or something. For more on Eric Johanson or to catch a show on his Don’t Hold Back tour, visit the power trio online at www.EricJohanson.com , where you can find tour dates, news, and shop the online store. *All photos by Bud Gambrell with Dragonfly Imagery www.dragonflyaerialimagery.com Dragonfly Aerial Imagery Dragonfly Aerial Imagery is a locally owned and operated photography business in North Alabama. Call or email us today for an appointment. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

Show up on May 30, 2026, in Henderson, Louisiana. < Back Let the Good Times Boil: Burning Crawfish Festival Returns This May Nicole Brice Apr 12, 2026 Share Show up on May 30, 2026, in Henderson, Louisiana. The Burning Crawfish Festival returns this year on Saturday, May 30, 2026 , in Henderson, LA , at Big Brown (1065 Nina Hwy) . Since it began in 2009 , founder M’Lyn Usie has continued to build on the festival's success by featuring a new lineup of talent each year. This year’s lineup of musicians is packed for the celebrations. Bands such as Nest, Slow the Knife, Cheater Pipe, Shivering Demons, Sunrise:Sunset, The Brown Stripes, Totem, Blood Show, and LA Phantoms will start playing at 1:00 p.m. There will be food, drinks, vendors, and more. The event is open to all ages and will also include a waterslide for kids. Additionally, there will be a clothing swap and a plant swap . The flyer for the 2026 Burning Crawfish Fest in Henderson, LA The idea for the festival began when founder M’Lyn Usie decided to use some of the skills she learned in college to promote music. She always wanted to put on a music festival, and in 2026 , here we are. With a background in the music business, the festival started as a gathering among friends and continues to grow. Usie has said of the festival’s origins, “ I went to Loyola University in New Orleans at the time, and in 2005, when Katrina hit, one of our favorite professors at Loyola, he and his wife, they actually bought the big brown house in Henderson, and it is right down the road from where I grew up. When we couldn’t go home to New Orleans, we spent a lot of time hanging out at Big Brown, and we had all these ideas. Dr. Jimbo would always ask me what I wanted to do with my music business degree, and I told him I’d love to put on a festival, and then it happened. It’s like the Burning Man but for crawfish country. ” Tickets for the 2026 Burning Crawfish Festival are $15 now via this presale link and will be $20 on the day of the festival. Show up, bring friends, and plan for a great day of music. There will also be a gigantic papier-mâché crawfish lit in the evening to bring it all together. The mascot of the Burning Crawfish Fest To learn more about the bands: Nest Facebook Slow the Knife Facebook Cheater Pipe Facebook Shivering Demons Facebook Sunrise:Sunset Facebook The Brown Stripes Facebook Totem Facebook Blood Show Facebook LA Phantoms Facebook Tickets can be purchased here: Burning Crawfish Fest 2026 | Event Details | Passage - Your event. Your fans. Your mobile box office. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com mixedalternativemag@gmail.com Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

90’s alt rock with dark and dreamy layered vocals < Back Mindy Scurto and Captive Frame: Reigniting Shoegaze Nicole Brice Jul 31, 2023 Share 90’s alt rock with dark and dreamy layered vocals I recently came across the music of an indie band called Captive Frame. With numerous releases on their Bandcamp page, I was drawn to their sound because it reminds me so much of one of my favorite shoegaze bands, Scarling . When most think of shoegaze, they instantly think of bands such as My Bloody Valentine , Cocteau Twins , or The Jesus and Mary Chain : distorted guitars, feedback, and dreamy layered vocals encasing you in soothing waves of sound. With an insanely creative cover of Nirvana’s “ Something in the Way ,” Captive Frame has found a way to showcase the perfect mix of distortion and feedback making the well-known tune feel reinvented. Other tunes such as “Walking Away” and “Seven Mondays” take the listener through an atmospheric journey of texture and sound. With so many songs to experience on their Bandcamp page, you truly need to experience their music for yourself to understand the beauty of Mindy Scurto’s voice. It’s soft, it’s haunting, it’s seductive. Captive Frame is the brainchild of multi-talented female vocalist, Mindy Scurto, who is currently based out of Florida, and her husband, Joe, who plays lead guitar. Originally from Maine, Mindy is a graphic designer by day and a talented musician by night. Coming from a metal scene in New England, Scurto founded her own graphic design company called MK Studios, where she has taken on numerous projects for her band as well as others to give them the identity they all visually need. In addition to graphic design, Mindy also paints and loves to engross herself in fine art. With a history of over ten years in the business, Scurto formerly managed a music shop in her home state where she worked exclusively with Autistic children teaching them music and integration. I recently had the opportunity to chat with Mindy at length about her music, her life, and her passion to create as well as the current state of her band. Take a moment to learn a little more about this creative woman who knows how to captivate with not only her voice but also with her outgoing personality. MaM : Tell us a little more about the band beginnings. MS : Captive Frame started a long time ago back when I was living in New Hampshire. We had a band before that was called Zounderkite and then another one called Cactus Hag. We toured all over with Cactus Hag and had a lot of fun, but my health got really bad and we ended up moving around New England a good bit. After I was misdiagnosed with diabetes, they essentially told me I was going to die, and at that point I decided we needed to get the hell out of New England because I had developed neuropathy. I couldn’t play anything, and I couldn’t do my art. In the middle of the pandemic, we decided to move to Florida in the southwestern part of the state, and that is where we currently are now. Photo provided by band MaM : So, what year was it that you could say that Captive Frame really got started working on material? Was it 2012? MS : No, it was more like 2014. I remember I was still working at the music store, and I found DKFM, which is a shoegaze radio station, and I was just blown away. That kind of gave me the idea for the band and then Joe, my husband, who is a huge Siouxsie and the Banshees fan, heard this line in the song “Unrest” where she says something about a captive frame, and that really resonated with him. It symbolizes being stuck and the line really stayed with us. When we moved to Florida, we got with a producer and we had this plan and then ended up knocking out an album in a year. It just poured right out of us. MaM : What is going on currently with the band? Any new material coming? MS : We have the live line-up finally and we’ve only practiced twice, but the guys we have are really serious about the music, which is great. We’re not used to people taking the music seriously because we’ve been in some bad situations with band tyrants, and it just really messes up everyone’s time. The chemistry of this group is so right, and we are a super tight family. Currently practicing and working on songs. Cover art for Captive Frame's upcoming self-titled release MaM : Who makes up the current line-up of Captive Frame? MS : I sing and then my husband, Joe, is the lead guitarist. Eric is the rhythm guitar player and then we have Richard on bass and Ghimel on drums. Photo provided by band MaM : I truly love your sound and it reminds me of the band Scarling. Have you ever heard of them? It was a side project of Jessicka from Jack Off Jill. MS : Oh, no shit! That’s so funny. My old roommate from college was a Jack Off Jill maniac. That’s a great compliment. Thank you. MaM : What would you say the future holds for Captive Frame? MS : It would be really cool if we could get signed and we would love to travel, so we will see. To hear Captive Frame’s music, hit one of the links below and be sure to follow them on social media, too. They are working on so many things, so stay tuned! Bandcamp: Music | Captive Frame (bandcamp.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/captiveframe/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captive_frame/?hl=en www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Select Series to Check Out with Your Time Off < Back Holiday Binge Keeley Brooks Nov 23, 2022 Share Select Series to Check Out with Your Time Off If you read my recent article “Giggle ‘Til Your Heart’s Content,” hopefully you got some good recommendations to put on your list. No recommendation list is complete without film’s partner, streaming series. While there are plenty of new titles out there to watch (and our list of what released this month in our Stream This section), I figured I’d make it easy for you and give you some favorites to watch by category. So grab that blanket and settle in. You're welcome. ACTION Banshee – A 2013 Cinemax original series, this one is gorgeously shot and boasts extremely well-written characters wrapped in a fascinating story. Set in the small town of Banshee in Pennsylvania Amish Country, the show focuses on an enigmatic ex-con, who assumes the identity of the town’s local sheriff. Anthony Starr ( The Boys ) is a recently paroled master thief who assumes the identity of Sheriff Lucas Hood in Banshee, PA, where his former lover and, I must say, badass partner in crime relocated years ago and reinvented herself as Carrie Hopewell, the wife of the town prosecutor. Lucas attempts to reunite with Carrie and keep his past a secret, but then resumes his life of crime, even as he’s hunted by those he betrayed years earlier, including a mob boss who seeks revenge against Lucas and Carrie for the jewel heist that landed Lucas in prison. Also stars Ivana Milicevic, Tom Pelphrey ( Outer Range ), Hoon Lee ( Warrior ) and Frankie Faison (Marvel’s Luke Cage ). This series hands-down wins the award for Best Fight Scenes in a Series and for hosting some chicks who can both give and receive man-sized ass whoopins. With tomahawks and shit. Fights are so very real and bloody, they feel real. The entire story is so palpable, that you’ll find yourself just as drawn in as I was, and you’ll wind up binging it and wanting more. Streaming on Cinemax, HBOMax, Roku, Spectrum TV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lE5CMog-Opk Kingdom – Frank Grillo ( The Purge movies) is Alvey Kulina, the owner of a mixed martial arts gym who trains a generation of fighters, including his sons Jay (Jonathan Tucker, Debris ) and Nate (Nick Jonas). Struggling to keep the gym afloat, the pressure is on for Alvey’s boys to come through before he loses everything. Features some fantastic drama, lots of MMA, and a very lovable Paul Walter Hauser ( Blackbird ). Also stars Matt Lauria ( Friday Night Lights ), Kiele Sanchez ( The Purge movies), and many other recognizable faces. Streaming on Amazon Prime https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzKkTKOY38Q COMEDY Resident Alien – A SyFy original, this one will have you giggling in every single scene. I love this show. Starring Alan Tudyk ( Rogue One ), who is one of the funniest men on the planet, plays an alien who crash lands on Earth and assumes the identity of extremely-small-town doctor Harry Vanderspeigle. His nefarious mission to kill all humans is threatened when he realizes one of the townspeople, a nine-year-old boy, can see his true alien form. Their relationship is hysterical and is one of the most loved aspects of the show. What starts out as a simple life gets rocky when he’s roped into solving a local murder and realizes he needs to assimilate into his new world and slowly begins to wrestle with the moral dilemma of his secret mission on Earth. Every relationship in this series will have you giggling and feeling great. Also stars Sara Tomko ( Journey to the Center of the Earth ), Alice Wetterlund ( Silicon Valley ), Corey Reynolds ( All American ), Levi Fiehler ( Glitch ), and Meredith Garretson ( Fosse/Verdon ). Streaming on Peacock https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S24017GbcSA Silicon Valley – This title you can find on HBO/HBOMax. A very funny series created by Mike Judge, it’s partially inspired by his experiences as a Silicon Valley engineer in the 1980s. This comedy follows the misadventures of introverted computer genius Richard (Thomas Middleditch) and his brainy friends as they attempt to strike it rich in a highly-tech gold rush. They live together in a Bay Area startup incubator loosely run by self-satisfied dot-com millionaire Erlich (T.J. Miller, Office Christmas Party ), who lets them stay in his house rent-free in exchange for a stake in the projects they invent there. But when Richard develops a powerful search algorithm at his day job, he finds himself caught in the middle of a bidding war between his boss, whose firm offers Richard an eight-figure buyout, and a deep-pocketed venture capitalist. Also features comedian Jimmy O. Yang, Zach Woods ( The Office, Avenue 5 ), Martin Starr ( Freaks and Geeks ), Kumail Nanjiani ( Chippendales ), and a slew of other talent. Streaming on HBO/HBOMax https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69V__a49xtw HISTORICAL DRAMA The Last Kingdom – Streaming on Netflix, this one’s a must-watch if you love Viking and Dane history. Five seasons follows the story of Uhtred, a Saxon child who saw his father and the Saxon army killed by Danes. That day, Danish warlord Earl Ragnar captured him and raised him in a Danish camp alongside fellow captive Brida, a sharp-tongued girl. Years later, he’s a valiant warrior who deals with another blow when his home is deliberately set on fire, killing his surrogate family, including his father-like figure Ragnar. Now exiled and alone, except for Brida by his side, Uhtred vows to avenge Ragnar’s death and reclaim his homeland. But he must choose between his birth country and the people who raised him, walking a dangerous path between the two sides if he is going to help birth a new nation and ultimately recapture his ancestral land. Stars a very sexy Alexander Dreymon ( American Horror Story ), David Dawson ( My Policeman ), Toby Regbo ( Reign ), and Emily Cox ( Jerks ). Streaming on Netflix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbdp2jJPvCg Britannia – What started out as an Amazon Prime original was quickly acquired by EpixNow and is quite the hit. Set in 43AD as the Roman Imperial Army, led by General Aulus Plautius (David Morrissey, The Walking Dead ), invades Britain to crush the Celtic heart of Britannia. Determined to succeed where Julius Caesar failed, Aulus sets out to conquer this mythical land on the very end of the Roman Empire. Kerra (Kelly Riley, Yellowstone ), daughter of the king of the Cantii, is forced to put her differences with archrival Queen Antedia (Zoe Wanamaker, The Man Who Fell to Earth ) aside in order to unite the tribes and supposedly magical Druids and face their invaders. But General Aulus carries a secret that threatens to undermine the entire mission. Also stars Mackenzie Crook ( Pirates of the Caribbean ), David Bradley ( Harry Potter ), and Liana Cornell ( Wolf Creek ), and a host of other entertaining characters. Streaming on EpixNow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhDAFAbv9e0 HORROR/THRILLER Castle Rock, Season Two – A psychological-horror series set in the Stephen King multiverse that combines the mythological scale and intimate character storytelling of his works, weaving an epic saga of darkness and light played out on a few square miles of Maine woodland. Season Two has its own original storyline but is based on themes, characters, and ideas from King’s famous work, Misery . Lizzie Caplan stars as death nurse Annie Wilkes, years prior to Misery taking place. If you loved the movie, you’ll love this season of the series. Streaming on Hulu https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGr1Mnsua5E Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin – This title dropped on HBO/HBOMax several months back, and though I never watched Pretty Little Liars , I got sucked into this one. Rather different than the original series, this one follows a new generation of lying teens as they are stalked and tormented by a masked assailant. It has a surprisingly solid storyline and some pretty decent acting. I’d watch it again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnXgKHt---w Alright, my fellow content lovers. I hope you have an enjoyable holiday break full of good food and company and lots of good titles to stream. Enjoy. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? 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New Titles in Theaters and On Demand < Back New Movies Out This Week Keeley Brooks Oct 21, 2022 Share New Titles in Theaters and On Demand Here's your weekly list of what's new in theaters and for rent! Watch away, my friends. And remember to eat your popcorn with your mouth closed. Nobody likes a smacker. Enjoy! In Theaters: Black Adam – Dwayne Johnson stars as Teth Adam, who was bestowed the almighty powers of the gods in ancient Kahndaq. After using these powers for vengeance, Adam was imprisoned and became Black Adam. Nearly 5,000 years have passed, and Black Adam has gone from man to myth to legend. Now free, his unique form of justice birthed by rage is challenged by modern-day heroes who form the Justice Society: Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Atom Smasher, and Cyclone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0tOpBuYasI Ticket to Paradise – Julia Roberts and George Clooney are a divorced couple who teams up and travels to Bali to stop their daughter from making the same mistake they think they made 25 years ago. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hkP4tVTdsz8 American Murderer – Starring Ryan Phillippe and Tom Pelphrey (Outer Range), this film is based on the true story of Jason Derek Brown, a charismatic con man turned party king who bankrolls his luxurious lifestyle through a series of scams. When his funds run low and his past catches up with him, he plots his most elaborate scheme yet and, in the process, becomes the FBI’s most unlikely—and elusive—top ten fugitive. Also available to rent. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUq3QRWwXts The Banshees of Inisherin – Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson lead this film about the relationship between two buddies. On a remote island off the coast of Ireland, Padraic is devastated when his buddy Colm suddenly puts an end to their lifelong friendship. With help from his sister and a troubled young islander, Padraic sets out to repair the damaged relationship by any means necessary. However, as Colm’s resolve only strengthens, he soon delivers an ultimatum that leads to shocking consequences. Also available to rent. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRu3zLOJN2c Slayers – Vampire slayer Elliot Jones made it his life’s mission to take revenge on the bloodsuckers who killed his teenage daughter. After years of tracking them, he’s finally reached their secret and hidden base. To get to them, though, he’ll need help from a motley crew of social media superstars who’ve been invited to party at a compound that’s also a lair for ancient vampires. Starring Abigail Breslin, Malin Ackerman, and Thomas Jane https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZLPvdjRVXs Wendell & Wild – A stop-motion horror comedy directed by Henry Selick ( Coraline , James and the Giant Peach ) and from a screenplay co-written with Jordan Peele ( Us , Nope ). Two devious demon brothers have to face their arch-enemy with the help of nun Sister Helly, who is notorious for expelling demons. However, the brothers are not only plagued by her but also by her altar boys. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJp5pLsXhgo New Titles On Demand: Bros https://youtu.be/BQIeBB9XMe8 Bitcon https://youtu.be/HwbIhXrJhIw Beyond the Neon https://youtu.be/p9S-QtP9PkE Hockeyland https://youtu.be/HC15J7GxPuo The Loneliest Boy in the World https://youtu.be/zBhGbSrixtE Kingslayer https://youtu.be/z5PxQVi9SfA Where Are You? https://youtu.be/_urNSZdg42w Detective Knight: Rogue https://youtu.be/0vJXSQoysXE Dangerous Game: The Legacy Murders https://youtu.be/6303iTtM-mk 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

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

Movie Recommendations of a Man of Extra-Large Talent < Back Peter Dinklage Keeley Brooks Nov 22, 2022 Share Movie Recommendations of a Man of Extra-Large Talent I’m not ashamed to say that most of my nights and weekends are spent watching movies and streaming series. And sometimes, because I’m a grown up, I play video games. From new titles and old titles to titles I come across by chance and those that come recommended, I love diving in deep to get lost. And what most of society labels as being “lazy” and “unmotivated” is something, for me, that is quite the opposite. In my world, things like this are exciting, enthralling, rewarding, and challenging because I thoroughly enjoy digging into and dissecting the cinematic arts. Why is that lazy or unmotivated? Consider all the aspects that go into one story: theme, characters, setting, plot, metaphors, foreshadowing, twists and turns, cinematography, special effects, costume designs, voice-overs, edits, music, actors, etc. All of these are what ignite my intellect. There’s nothing I love more (other than my lil family o’ dummies) than getting lost in a story and finding meaning in something I’m watching, and I love observing from different points of view: how real does what I’m watching seem? Is it truly believable, and why or why not? Does a story and its parts have what it takes not just to hold my attention but also to be so believable that I have to remind myself it’s just a movie? And, I won’t lie, I’m a bit of a snob in the sense that I do look for things missed in post-production and for continuity between cut frames in the same scene. I also love analyzing the work of art as a whole and discovering its effect on me. That , to me, is exciting, and I’d much rather spend my time doing that and being with my people rather than being out in the madness of the world. By no means am I a recluse; I just am who I am, and I won’t apologize for it. I also can’t hear those who call this content lover as “lazy” and “unmotivated” for engaging in what she loves, and that’s super-good news for those of you out there who are looking for recommendations on what to watch. That’s what I’m here for ... just ask my family and friends. I also enjoy following different actors through their careers. One I have loved and followed since 2005 is Peter Dinklage, whom you might best know as Tyrion Lannister from HBO’s Game of Thrones . He’s just awesome, with eyes full of meaning and emotion that speak to the hearts of viewers everywhere. He’s an intensely humble and marvelous actor to watch, and he brings such a captivating emotional depth and range to every title he’s in and character he plays that you just can’t help but love him, feel what his characters feel, and want to follow his career. I was first introduced to him in 2005 when a friend who shared my affinity for film introduced me to The Station Agent , which is an independent psychological comedy-drama by Tom McCarthy ( The Visitor , Win Win , Spotlight ) starring Dinklage, Bobby Cannavale, Patricia Clarkson, and Michelle Williams. It’s a sweet and quirky but also deeply heartfelt movie about an improbable group of lonely people in a small town who find their paths continuously crossing and are forced to befriend one another. It stars Peter Dinklage, Bobby Cannavale, Patricia Clarkson, and Michelle Williams and follows the life of train aficionado and downcast little person Finbar McBride (Dinklage), whose life takes an unexpected turn when his boss dies and leaves him a railroad depot in small-town New Jersey. Fin moves in to the depot and keeps to himself and his love and respect for trains, until his space is comically invaded by a very talkative and carefree food truck vendor, played by Bobby Cannavale. Then, an unhappy, reclusive artist/wife (Patricia Clarkson) shows up, and the trio’s unlikely interactions deepen as some eccentric conversations, relationships, and outcomes ensue. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=031TV29V3e0 Dinklage’s performance will melt your heart, and the culmination of this movie will leave you with chills, forcing you to appreciate the good friends you have in your life and let them know you love them. I highly, highly, highly recommend this movie. One of his more recent works I recently saw is a 2018 independent flick called I Think We’re Alone Now , starring Dinklage, Elle Fanning, and Paul Giamatti, and directed by Reed Morano, who has directed and executive produced the pilot and some episodes of The Handmaid’s Tale and the movies Frozen River (2008) and Lemonade (2016). This movie is about two survivors who learn to co-exist and live together after a worldwide pandemic wipes out Earth’s population. Dinklage is on his own and has been for some time, going house to house in his city, clearing them of the dead and burying bodies, as well as “cleaning” houses for items he needs and can use to survive. One day, out of nowhere, a vehicle crashes into a nearby pole and inside he finds a girl (Elle Fanning) inside, bleeding and passed out with a head wound. Thinking he was the only survivor left in the world, he's hesitant of her but ultimately decides to help her and bandages her up. They then very cautiously begin to learn about one another, slowly building trust and a little openness into their individual worlds … right up until Paul Giamatti shows up and brings a twist that really amps things up, and Dinklage finds himself on a quest across the country alone to rescue the very person he helped then shunned after learning of her secret. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPrnb_BYsdA It’s not your typical post-apocalyptic film but it's a very good flick with some fantastic acting, a great storyline, and some very well-done directing and camera work. I Think We’re Alone Now is a slow-burn of intensity building up to a shocking revelation that’ll leave you thinking about post-apocalyptic depictions, scenarios, and expectations in an entirely new light, while revealing the beauty of trusting, letting go, and opening up your world to other people. I just as highly recommend this movie, too. Dinklage has a slew of good movies, including the Will Ferrell Christmas hit Elf . You can check out his full repertoire on IMDB.com . Enjoy, my fellow movie lovers! www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

There is always time to catch a classic movie. < Back Top 5 Movies That Rock Jeff Holmes Jul 22, 2024 Share There is always time to catch a classic movie. A catchy score in a film can elevate it from good to great. The movies in this list take that idea a step further. These picks are all about the music. Whether it's blues , classical , heavy metal , jazz , or just plain old rock n' roll , they show us why music is so valuable in our lives. 1. Amadeus Amadeus is the story of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and what shaped his music. Mentorship is challenging, especially when your protege` has more talent. For Salieri, Mozart proves to be a challenge and much, much more. This Best Picture winner (1984) shows us talent alone does not a musician make. Two sides of the same coin, Salieri and Mozart both demonstrate what a tormented creative genius looks like. Bravo Amadeus ! 1984 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_R4fbdzzXok 2. The Blues Brothers The Blues Brothers follows Jake and Elwood as they hurry to raise money. Their childhood orphanage is being shut down and they're the last hope. The only way to accomplish their goal is by getting the band back together. Reconnecting with each member of the band proves challenging. Along the way, the band proves to be true musical outlaws, as they stay one step ahead of the law. Don't worry, there are plenty of jams along the way. Ride along with the one, the only, the Blues Brothers. 1980 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HCR4c1zPyk 3. Pirate Radio Pirate Radio is the story of how rock n' roll fought to survive in 70s era Britain. Rock music was officially banned by the British government during this time. A workaround to this was moored offshore boats that played nothing but rock. The government opposed these so called 'pirate' radio stations by doing everything they could to shut them down. This hilarious movie, complete with a perfectly executed soundtrack, illustrates that deep down we're all rockers in one way or another. Rock n' roll will never die! 2009 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRh1-cyWfGQ 4. Soul An animated film from the masters at Pixar, Soul doesn't include any immediately recognizable characters, however, the film is certainly a one of kind experience. Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher, is taken on both a musical and spiritual journey to find his place in life. He is consumed with waiting for his chance to perform professionally. Will his dream come true or does the universe have other plans? 2020 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs--6c7Hn_A 5. This is Spinal Tap This is Spinal Tap stands out as both a comedy film and rock and roll masterpiece. An originator of the mockumentary style, the film took its time growing an audience. Today it is undoubtedly a classic, equally known for its rocking soundtrack as well as its myriad of jokes. If you're a fan of more modern musical comedy acts such as Tenacious D , Weird Al , Flight of the Concords , etc, and somehow haven't yet seen it - get on it! You won't want to miss This is Spinal Tap! 1984 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6F0VyKp4Ik Be sure to check these films out if you haven't yet because they are some of my favorite films that rock! -Jeff- www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90's flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

It was a night of dynamic performances and captivating energy. < Back Collision of Sound: Sleeping with Sirens, Teenage Joans, and Holding Absence Ignite the Stage with Powerful Performances Rian Nickels Oct 8, 2024 Share It was a night of dynamic performances and captivating energy. Strap up your black boots, throw on some eyeliner, and come along with me for one of the most exciting nights of my life. On October 4th, 2024 I got to photograph one of my absolute dream bands – Sleeping With Sirens – at The House Of Blues in New Orleans, LA . (To say I was thrilled is an understatement; I think my inner teen was healed that night.) Sleeping With Sirens is currently on tour to celebrate the 13th anniversary of their second album Let’s Cheers to This released in 2011. Supporting Sleeping with Sirens were alternative rock bands Teenage Joans and Holding Absence . The House of Blues started the night with the Australian punk rock duo – Teenage Joans. The duo consists of drummer and vocalist Tahlia Borg and guitarist and vocalist Cahli Blakers. Unfortunately, I arrived at the show a little late due to traffic and lack of parking (That’s the good ole French Quarter of New Orleans for ya), so when I walked in, I wasn’t sure if the band was still on the first three songs and sadly missed my opportunity to photograph them. However, I got this clip of Sleeping with Sirens on stage in between songs to sing Tahlia Happy Birthday and hand deliver her a cake! https://video.wixstatic.com/video/999a0f_0b1a6b0a416948e8bf9d14372729f836/720p/mp4/file.mp4 “Imagine being 14 years old and Sleeping With Sirens is your favorite band, and then being 22 and they are hand delivering you a cake and singing you Happy Birthday”, Tahlia said to the crowd before the duo went on to play a cover of one of Pierce the Veil 's most popular tracks ‘ Circles .’ This was the perfect move to get everyone excited about what was in store for the night. Teenage Joans also performed original songs from their debut album The Rot That Grows Inside My Chest . I was thoroughly impressed by the talent level they could achieve with only two members. Not every day you get to see a punk rock duo of women, and I indeed became a fan. Teenage Joans thanked everyone, threw guitar picks and setlists, and then made sure to get everyone excited for the following supporting act – Holding Absence. Holding Absence is a Welsh alternative rock band from Cardiff, Wales that consists of lead vocalist Lucas Woodland, bassist Benjamin Elliot, drummer Ashley Green, and guitarist Scott Carey. The energy they all brought to the stage felt very fun and lively. Lucas and the rest of the band members delivered a high-energy, chaotic stage presence that electrified anyone in the room. The amount of energy and movement they brought to the stage amplified the overall experience and kept the crowd engaged and in the moment. I had never heard of Holding Absence before, but the crowd indeed did; almost the whole audience of the sold-out show knew the lyrics to every song. Holding Absence gave their all for their set and then got the attendees screaming for who they’ve all been waiting for Sleeping with Sirens. Credit: Rian Nickels Credit: Rian Nickels Sleeping With Sirens is a post-hardcore band from Grand Rapids, Michigan , and has been blessing our ears since circa 2009. The band consists of four members: Kellin Quinn as lead vocalist, Matty Best on the drums, Justin Hills doing backing vocals and bass guitar, rhythm guitarist and backing vocalist Nick Martin, and touring lead guitarist Tony Pizzuti. As I said before, Sleeping with Sirens was on tour to celebrate the 13th anniversary of their second album, Let’s Cheers to This , and they were about to perform it for us in its entirety. Credit: Rian Nickels The lights dimmed and they allowed the press photographers in the photo pit; I’d be lying if I said that wasn’t one of the most incredible things I’d ever experienced just walking down the steps with other individuals with the same dreams and goals as mine. I wondered how many of our dreams were coming true that night. The anticipation of waiting for them to go on stage to let me loose to photograph a band I’d looked up to for over a decade was eating me alive. Upon coming out and the crowd going insane, I could only look up and smile. They started with the track ‘ Tally It Up, Settle the Score ’, a song about proving all the people who said you couldn’t do It wrong, which was the perfect track to get the crowd head banging and jumping and pumping my blood because there’s nothing more motivating than the people who don’t believe in you. They followed this with ‘ Do It Now Remember It Later ’, which follows similar themes with lyrics like “ Remember when they said that what we want can never be done? When it all comes falling down, we'll do what we want to ”. This was a full circle moment for me, from being 16-years-old and crowd-surfing at Warped Tour to this same song to photographing them performing it at 28-years-old at a venue that has many times felt like home. Credit: Rian Nickels After they played their third song, ‘ Four Corners and Two Sides ,’ it was time for me to leave the photo pit and enjoy the show with the attendees. This was a sold-out show at the House of Blues, which, if you don’t know, means that you packed in there like sardines, so I went all the way to the back for an easy exit after the show. Sleeping With Sirens went on to play more of their album, but a surreal moment for me was when they played ‘ A Trophy Father’s Trophy Son ’, which at its barest is a song about having a rocky relationship with your dad. It meant so much to me to see a room of so many people screaming, “ Is this what you call a family? ” in unison. It was one of those moments when you realize you’re not alone in your feelings and life experiences. Credit: Rian Nickels For their track ‘ All My Heart ,’ Kellin had everyone pull out their flashlights on their phone. The flashes lit up the House of Blues, and everyone sang, “ You still have all of my heart ,” in unison to create one of the most beautiful moments I’ve seen within those walls. Kellin then told us the whole story of his first time on tour with the band Enter Shikari in New Orleans . He mentioned how he had just gotten lost in the quarter and had gotten separated from all his friends and bandmates after being given one of his first Hand Grenades– a feeling almost every Louisianan knows all too well – Kellin’s Wife had called another bandmate and demanded they find her husband, after seeing Kellin fall asleep on top of the tour bus and wake up with one of the worst sunburns of his life. I liked this story because it felt like an authentic New Orleans experience and not a fabricated story for excitement like some bands will do. They went on to play more songs from the album, such as the title track ‘ Let’s Cheers to This ,’ ‘ Who Are You Now ,’ and ‘ Your Nickel Ain’t Worth My Dime ,’ before telling us goodnight and exiting the stage. Credit: Rian Nickels It’s important to note that earlier in the show, he told us they’d be leaving the stage soon and returning for five more songs. (Five Encore songs are wild, but I’m here for it). This had the crowd screaming “FIVE MORE SONGS” and “ONE MORE SET” which I’ve never heard before at a concert. They came back out on stage in different outfits and used this opportunity to perform songs that weren’t on the second album—starting with the song that rose them to fame, ‘ If I’m James Dean and You’re Aubrey Hepburn .’ This was another beautiful moment as everyone in the building knew every word and didn’t miss a beat. Kellin told us to sing it, and we didn’t deliver anything less. You could see how emotional this made Kellin, but he brushed it off with a bounce and big smile. Other songs they played for their encore were ‘ Kick Me ,’ ‘ Leave it All Behind ,’ and one of my personal favorites, ‘ Better Off Dead .’ Before playing this track, Kellin told us that he wrote this song for the people who sometimes can’t stand the reflection in the mirror and sometimes feel like they’re better off dead. They then finished off with an extended version of their biggest song from the album, ‘ If Ya Can’t Hang ,’ which was another one that had the whole House of Blues practically roaring. Everyone knew the words as they chanted, “ IF YOU CAN’T HANG, THERE’S THE DOOR BABY ,” while, of course, pointing out where the door of the venue was. It's a staple moment at almost every Sleeping with Sirens concert. Ironically, the concert was over, and we would hit the door soon because we couldn’t hang. Funny how that worked out, huh? Photographing Sleeping with Sirens at The House of Blues felt like more than just capturing a moment—it was a personal milestone that brought my teenage dreams full circle. I’ve been a fan of this band since my teens, and to stand in front of them, camera in hand, was nothing short of surreal. It’s an accomplishment that means the world to me, not only because of how long I’ve carried their music with me but because it represents growth, passion, and a love for music and photography. That night, the mix of nostalgia, excitement, and pure joy reminded me of one of the many reasons I do what I do. *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? HIt us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Huntsville’s Throttle Fest 2023 is a small version of a music festival, but it’s more like a family reunion with live music. < Back Throttle Fest 2023: Southern Happenings Bud Gambrell Oct 24, 2023 Share Huntsville’s Throttle Fest 2023 is a small version of a music festival, but it’s more like a family reunion with live music. The announcement of Throttle Fest 2023 indicated the return of a huge music event that, since 2020, has brought joy to many people. Originally held at Sidetracks Music Hall in Huntsville, Ala., Throttle Fest is the brainchild of booking agent Shane Bickel. While Throttle Fest continued in 2021, the music event did not return in 2022 due to Sidetracks’ unfortunate closing. Luckily, opportunity struck this past summer when Bickel announced to adoring fans all across the South that Throttle Fest would be returning this October to Huntsville, now taking place at Rocket Republic . The lineup for Throttle Fest 2023 featured some of Southern rock's brightest rising stars —six bands originating from six different states. Hailing from Biloxi, Miss., newly formed hard rock band The Heavy Strides kicked off the event on Friday, Oct. 13, with their unique, signature sound known for marrying deep rhythmic grooves with searing guitars under the guidance of soulful lead vocals. The Heavy Strides promise an electric fusion of classic influences , including the likes of Led Zeppelin to Soundgarden, all wrapped up with a temporary edge. The Heavy Strides are Drew Fulton on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Josh Estes on bass, Cedric Feazell keepin' the beat on the drums, and Tyler Storms on loead guitar. Cedric Feazell of The Heavy Strides (credit: Bud Gambrell) Next up were The Josephines out of Bowling Green, Kentucky. These guys are always a crowd pleaser with their raw, rough-around-the-edges rock and roll that’s sure to have you dancing while you shed a tear or two. The Josephines—consisting of Brad Tabor (lead vocals, acoustic guitar, mandolin), Zach Lindsey (lead guitar, vocals), Alex Lindey (lead guitar, pedal steel, lap steel, vocals), and David Page (drums, percussion)—arrived with a different lineup this year, which included special guest guitarist Kyle Daniel. Kyle Daniel with The Josephines (credit: Bud Gambrell) Mixed Alternative Magazine was there and had a chance to talk to The Josephines’ lead singer Brad Tabor about how it feels to play Throttle Fest again. Says Brad, “It was awesome! We got to play with some new guys. We had a couple of players with us who don't normally go out with us, and they ripped it! And then, you know, the set sounded good to me, so people had fun and that's kind of the goal. I'm glad to be here for that reason. People got to enjoy themselves.” Brad Tabor of The Josephines (credit: Bud Gambrell) Closing out the first night was Them Dirty Roses from Gadsden, Alabama. This Southern rock band knows how to bend a string and break a heart Skynyrd-style. From the Alabama clay to Europe to festivals all across the United States, Them Dirty Roses are used to bringing the fireworks in their headlining abilities. The Throttle Fest crowd was treated to a bass solo from Ben Crain, a lead guitar solo from Andrew Davis, and a rousing drum solo from Frank Ford. Andrew Davis of Them Dirty Roses (credit: Bud Gambrell) After that set, Mixed Alternative pulled Them Dirty Roses lead singer James Ford aside to get his thoughts about Throttle Fest and being able to play in Huntsville again. “It does really feel good [to be back in Huntsville playing Throttle Fest],” Ford says, “because it [was] scary when Sidetracks went away. It was kind of like, ‘Damn, where are we gonna play now?’ We just didn't have a home in Huntsville anymore. And we've been doing it since 2018. So, I'm hoping this is the new place that's our new home in Huntsville. And I thought [the set] went great! … The crowd seemed to be into it.” Them Dirty Roses (credit: Bud Gambrell) Kicking the music off on Saturday, Oct. 14, was Southern soul/rock ‘n roll band One For The Road , who came straight out of “a small building back in the woods of Resaca,” in North Georgia. I have been hearing about this band from my good friend Todd Dean , an outstanding musician photographer who sat in with OFTR to sing Marshall Tucker’s “Can’t You See” . If you enjoy totally unadulterated Southern rock music , you have to look into this band. One For The Road features frontman and lead singer Zach Crumley, drummer Chris Webb, organ/piano player Joe Morgan, and bassist Jaithan Neal. Zach Crumley of One For The Road (credit: Bud Gambrell) Up next, and straight out of Little Rock, Ark., deFrance ’s rock ‘n roll style did a slammin’ job of setting the table for the classic rock sounds of Jive Mother Mary , from Burlington, N.C., who closed out the night. deFrance is cut straight from the roots of the best in Southern music , blending elements of true folk and country music with the classic songwriting styles of Tom Petty, Neil Young, and Ryan Adams into a fresh take on rock ‘n roll. I should also mention that deFrance travels in a church van. I think band leader Drew deFrance enjoys the reaction when the church bus pulls in to play at a rock club. Drew deFrance of deFrance (credit: Bud Gambrell) Jive Mother Mary, who headlined the second night, put on a damn good set, with several attendees mentioning that their Throttle Fest 2023 performance may have been the best JMM set they’ve seen. It comes down to this: Mason Keck and JMM never cease to amaze me at just how good of musicians they are. The word stunning comes to mind. When it was announced that they were coming back to Throttle Fest, I saw it as an opportunity to sit down and talk to Jive Mother Mary lead singer Mason Keck . In response to what Throttle Fest means to Keck as a performer, he says, “Man, Throttle Fest just kind of feels like a family reunion . Huntsville is a really cool little market for us. You know, we're from North Carolina originally and we kind of just had a core group of folks that really were supporting us strongly down in Huntsville. We played at Sidetracks a couple of times, then the first couple of Throttle Fests were there, and Huntsville was always a spot we could kind of count on as a good mood lifter, you know what I mean? The people that were going to be there were there to see [us] and that was an important part of it—always getting to see the folks that [come] out time and time again.” Jive Mother Mary (credit: Bud Gambrell) (In my best infomercial pitchman voice): But wait there’s more! Prior to Day 2 kicking off, Mixed Alternative also had the chance to talk to Throttle Fest organizer supreme , mastermind, genius, and promoter extraordinaire Shane Bickel . (If you can’t tell, we love Shane in Huntsville.) When asked what Throttle Fest means to him, Bickel replies, "It’s hardcore love for Southern rock music … just bringing a bunch of familiar faces together with some new faces and just creating a family atmosphere. All of the bands and the fans just get along so well. It's just, I don't know, something about it I like. It's a small version of a festival, but more like a family reunion with live music." In 2022, Throttle Fest didn’t happen due to the closing of Sidetracks Music Hall. This year, it was out of the blue when Bickel announced Throttle Fest 2023. We wanted to know what his plan was behind that, so we asked. "I miss y’all!" Bickel laughs. How else can we get everybody who used to support Sidetracks for most of the shows together? How can we get them all back in one room? Because so many people come from out of town, out of state. You have to put six of these bands together so you can get all different parts of the South to show up. And so far, we've done that: I think we had eight or nine different states show up [the first day]. So, it's pretty impressive that people still care about these bands and follow them . Most of these bands we won't be able to [accommodate] in a smaller setting or hopefully, they'll honor me with doing … Throttle Fest whenever we need to do it. " He continues, "It's like a family reunion, but these guys are going to move on to bigger and better stages. I mean, [we have to] enjoy it and embrace it while we can because a lot of these bands are going to be too big for us soon. [Everything has gone] really well. Everybody enjoys the new venue, so that is really comforting to hear positive feedback on that. So, all in all, [Throttle Fest 2023] has been a home run! " And I'd have to agree, especially when taking note of the festival's main theme, in addition to showcasing Southern music: family . Take it from someone who attended all three Throttle Fests: This is truly like a family reunion . There was also a phrase I heard repeated many times throughout the two-night event. I heard so many people tell someone else that they loved them, and in this day and age, where there is so much hate in the world, it was quite refreshing to see and hear. It is a shame that more people are not able to attend and share a loving, family-like experience one gets with Throttle Fest. For more information on Throttle Fest or any of the bands, follow their links and be sure to browse the gallery of images below! Throttle Fest Official Website The Josephines Official Website Them Dirty Roses Official Website Jive Mother Mary Official Website One For The Road Official Website The Heavy Strides Official Facebook deFrance Official Facebook www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

Iron Lung is a unique watch that sucks you in. < Back Film Review: Iron Lung Nick Cline Mar 12, 2026 Share Iron Lung is a unique watch that sucks you in. 2026 is looking to be a stellar year for horror fans. We are only three months in, and the realm of mainstream and indie horror is making a big name for itself. With that being said, the film Iron Lung has become a favorite so far this year. Iron Lung is a passion project from multifaceted YouTube personality Mark Fischbauch. He is better known by his YouTube handle, Markiplier . This was a film without any mainstream production company, distribution, or anything of the sort. It was self-funded, self-written, self-directed, and self-advised. It was a project fueled by passion, love for the work, and the artistic endeavor to push the story forward. Iron Lung 2026 The film is based on the 2022 game of the same name. The game explores a desolate moon where a prisoner, confined to a submarine, navigates a sea of blood as a “prison sentence”. The world and lore of the game came into pocket-sized fragments that would unearth the situation. The film takes the bare bones lore and elevates it into a 127-minute film. I describe Iron Lung as a Cosmic Horror project with a deep sense of dialogue, existential angst, and passion for the unfolding unknown. From start to finish, this is a film that brings the audience right into the situation. It starts with a recounting of the end of days. All life has been wiped out of existence by something called the silent rapture. The only things left are the remnants of mankind and the memories of times past. This bombshell of a monologue transitions to an opening shot of our main character, Simon . He is a prisoner locked away in a submarine that is being used to explore the sea of blood on an unknown moon. He is forced into a situation where he must explore the blood ocean in the hope of being set free from his prison sentence. This is the beginning of a continuous story, driven by a high-stakes series of events. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8E8Ryx49so Iron Lung Official Trailer As the film progresses, the intentions, ideals, horrors, and everything in between come to life. Over time, the stakes of the situation are felt in a slow but high-stakes chain of events. It starts off with Simon finding the bones of a giant alien-like creature, “something” bashing into his submarine, and the eventual dance of delusion and oxygen loss. The next stages of this review will be dancing the line between spoilers and non-spoilers. I want to offer a breakdown of the project's scope, ripping the magic out of its reveals before you even get to see it. I will try my best because this is a movie that deserves to be watched, not read. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaEtA56pd_w Iron Lung Final Trailer The story progresses till the point of “no return”. The conflict and climax merge into one center of action. It's an unusual way for a film to find its footing, but, overall, it is executed well. Simon finds himself in a pit of self-realization, existential angst, and anxiety of finding clarity and resolution in the situation. A creature stalks Simon as he slowly “loses” his mind. What is real? What is part of the radiated frenzy of reality? These are the two questions that haunt the narrative from the midpoint of the film until the rolling of the credits. This locking point in the film kickstarts some of the best visuals and creature design I've seen in a long time. It is baffling that this was a film made for only 3 million dollars, given its size and scope. I could go on and on about the direction this film takes, but that would reveal too much. This film deserves support and viewing. It is a passion project that would get any cosmic horror fan excited. The monsters, lore, existential dread, twists, twists of reality, visuals, sound design, and so much more make this a good watch for anyone who's a fan of cosmic horror, Markiplier , or story-driven horror. The only downside I could find is the slow-paced start, but that is something that usually comes with the film's style. Other than that, I had very few complaints as a viewer. It is a unique watch that sucks you into the world if you give it the chance. I couldn't recommend Iron Lung more. Do yourself a favor and give this a watch! Overall rating: 8.5/10 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

Still kicking ass and taking names < Back Sick of It All: Pioneers of the Hardcore Punk Scene Nicole Brice May 15, 2023 Share Still kicking ass and taking names For our first band to be featured in our G.O.A.T. section (greatest of all time), I don’t even know where to begin. This band has influenced me so much, I don’t even know what to say. Pioneers of the hardcore punk scene, the men of Sick of It All paved the way for many bands that came after them, and through the years when I’ve needed some inspiration to be tough and get myself into a certain headspace, their music has been my soundtrack. I was in the Louisiana Army National Guard from 2001-2009, and each summer we would travel to various locations around my state and beyond for our annual training—AT, as we called it. I still remember being on a bus or in the back of an LMTV with all my fellow troops as we embarked on the journey to our summer destinations—my earphones firmly in place and my turquoise iPod mini blaring the sweet tunage of Sick of It All . Their music has always inspired me with potent lyrics, thundering bass, crunching guitar, and crisp vocals. If there is one thing I can say about this band, it’s that even though they started out with a likeness reminiscent of other hardcore bands of the day, they have managed to evolve and refine their sound, making it one all their own. Anytime I hear a song by them, I instantly know it is them because of the distinct bass and the remarkable vocal stylings of the man himself, Mr. Lou Koller . Throw in an iconic logo of a dragon that was even used by another well-known music group and you have the unparalleled styling that can only be known as Sick of It All . Credit: Ken Salerno - The band in the early years For those not familiar with the band, allow me. Sick of It All was formed in 1986 with brothers Lou and Pete Koller . The Koller brothers grew up in Queens , N.Y., in a middle-class family where they would often hop on subway trains to the various indie record shops nearby and indulge themselves in all the iconic metal, punk, and hardcore albums they could devour. Their love of music turned into forming the band, with the Koller brothers being the solidifying force to bring it all together. After a couple of line-up changes through the years, the band has remained true to its roots and is currently comprised of Lou Koller on vocals, Pete Koller on guitar, Craig Setari on bass, and Armand Majidi on the kit. credit: Jeff Crespi - Armand Majidi Known for their high-energy shows, the band has never allowed themselves to be pigeonholed into one specific genre and has often played shows and toured with bands outside of the hardcore scene. When one thinks of a hardcore punk band, they think of the tough guys … the guys you don’t want to mess with— the real OGs . While the guys in Sick of it All are no strangers to kicking someone’s ass, they truly are just a nice bunch of guys who enjoy making music they love. credit: Jeff Crespi - Pete Koller With 11 albums to their credit and a book released in 2020 called “ The Blood and the Sweat: The Story of Sick of It All’s Koller Brothers ”, these guys show no sign of slowing down and are currently all over with Lou and Pete even recently being tour guides at the newly opened Punk Rock Museum in Las Vegas . With such an iconic sound, the music of Sick of it All proves that time is no test for such an influential band, and they continue to bring their music to new crowds of fans all over the world. Publisher: Post Hill Press (August 4, 2020) Currently taking a break from their highly successful 2023 tour with Life of Agony, which is set to resume in the U.S. in August, I was able to speak with the vox of this incomparable band, Lou Koller , to discuss everything from what the future holds to what they think of the crowds at their shows in the current day. MaM : Thank you so much for talking with me today. You have no idea what this means to me. I was so nervous about calling you that I told my friend I was about to throw up. (laughs) LK : No problem. No problem at all. MaM : Love your music and I feel like I’ve been listening to you forever. My favorite albums are Death to Tyrants , Call to Arms , and Yours Truly , but I have so many favorite songs of yours that if I were to list them, we would be here forever. (laughs) So, your last album was released in 2018 and I know you guys have been playing shows like crazy, but are there any plans for new music coming out? LK : Well, during the pandemic, we were writing mostly—well, my brother, Pete , he ended up writing over 27 songs , but we’ve been trying to convince the other members of the band we should get together and work on them and record, but we just never could get it together. It all happened when unemployment ran out and we all got jobs and that was a factor that delayed it. Also, too, our drummer Armand seems to be on vacation every other week. (laughs) Once the pandemic ended, we all felt it was time to get back on the road, but we still have these songs, so it’s on the way. After we get back from Europe and the other leg of the Life of Agony tour , we will have the fall to get together and we plan to meet two weeks every month to write, so we’ll see how that goes. We’re working on it. It’s on its way. credit: Jeff Crespi - Lou Koller MaM : So, as far as the writing and recording process, do you feel technology has changed how you approach that? LK : It does because of necessity. Again, with the pandemic, we didn’t really get together to write. … Pete would write, but he lives in Florida , so he wrote down there. Armand lives in upstate New York, Craig bounces from Queens to upstate New York , and I live in New Jersey now. It used to be we had our own rehearsal studio in Brooklyn , and we would all just meet there three times a week and jam and have fun, but you know when Pete moved to Florida, it all became corresponding through emails and stuff like that. I think the technology helps in a way, but it’s also kind of a pain in the ass for me. I like getting together at the studio, not just for the writing but for the camaraderie. MaM : Right, the vibe. LK : Yeah, exactly. It works, but there’s some aspects of it that we need to learn just to keep up with the times, and some of it makes it convenient or easier in some ways, but I think because of the way we all grew up, you feel like something is missing. I still have a hard time discovering new music through a digital platform. Some of the suggestions through Spotify I don’t get. I could sit there and listen to old metal and hardcore and punk, and suddenly, they’ll say, ‘Suggested for you is the new Justin Bieber album.’ Why? Why would you suggest that for me? I have nothing to do with that. Nothing I listen to is remotely close to that. (laughs) credit: Jeff Crespi - Lou Koller MaM : I agree. I use digital platforms, too, but I miss the old ways of discovering new music. I used to just go to the music store and wander around looking for any cover art that spoke to me. Often, I would purchase albums based solely on cover art, and then I would go home to listen to see whether I dug the music or not. So, who would you say has influenced you the most when it comes to your vocal styling? LK : It’s a combination. When I first started, I really didn’t know how to do anything, but I wanted to sound as hard and as rough as the singer, John Brandon , from Negative Approach and also Chris , the singer of Crumbsuckers because he also sounded like John Brandon . But now, for the last 10 years or so, I still try to emulate that, but I try to have a bit more range. One of my favorites is Lemmy from Motorhead because he had such a rough voice, but he had this melody, too. He could hit the notes but was just a great vocalist. I know a lot of people think that’s crazy, but I just love that he had such a rough sound. Chuck from Hot Water Music , too, has such a rough voice, but it’s also so melodic. He just does it great. He’s another one I would like to sing like. credit: Jeff Crespi - Lou Koller MaM : But your voice is so amazing! How do you keep it in shape for singing the type of music you guys play? LK : I’ve been to some professional coaches; Melissa Cross is probably the most famous one. When I went to her, she told me, ‘Sing how you sing,’ but [then she said], ‘I could give you a couple of pointers, but you do what you do very well.’ The way I sing, it’s more using the muscles around my vocal cords and all that, so like any muscle, when we’re not on tour, I really should be going to the studio twice a week to keep it in shape, but it’s not fun going to the studio by yourself screaming to your phone going through the PA. So, I got lazy, and usually before a tour, I’m like, ‘Ah man, I’ve gotta go in,’ and my voice usually sounds like garbage for a week and then it kicks in. credit: Jeff Crespi - Lou and Pete Koller MaM : So, let me ask, you guys are definitely the voice of a generation and I credit you with being very instrumental in launching that second wave of punk rock and hardcore. I consider the first wave to be late 70s/early 80s and then we had a reemergence of it in the late 90s/early 2000s, so with the crowds, especially since you just came off tour, have you noticed any differences or changes in the scene or just any differences in how people treat each other at shows in general? LK : It’s weird … Our tours in the 90s, we would take the upcoming hardcore bands like Strife and Snapcase and we would take the upcoming West Coast bands (what they called hardcore but we would call punk, like AFI and Good Riddance ) and … combine those bands into tours and we loved it. Now, it’s so separated; you can’t take a more melodic punk band out with a newer heavier hardcore band because a Terror crowd would not appreciate a Good Riddance and a Good Riddance crowd might not appreciate when a band like Incendiary plays. They would be like, ‘That’s way too heavy,’ but I think 1999 was the peak for that. We did a tour, and it’s one of our favorite tours we ever did, but it was us, AFI , Hot Water Music , and Indecision , and it was so good that almost every night every band had such a great reaction, and I think one of the proudest moments for us was on that tour in L.A. seeing kids with Blink 182 shirts going absolutely wild to Indecision , who were the forerunners of what bands like Knocked Loose are doing now, and to see kids going absolutely crazy to something that’s totally opposite to what they usually listen to and then do the same thing for Hot Water Music and AFI and then with us, that was great. Nowadays, like I said, when you try to mix it up, it doesn’t work as well. credit: Jeff Crespi MaM : I grew up in the late 90s/early 2000s and so I remember when there was no separation. It was all together. If you liked hardcore, you liked punk. If you liked punk, you liked pop-punk and so on. I feel like back then there was more cohesiveness and now, like you said, it’s more divided. LK : I think on a smaller scale, it might be coming back. Luckily, I have a friend who used to work for us. He’s about 10 years younger than me, and he’s always sending me texts with, ‘Hey, check this band out,’ and he’ll send me music like Drain or Incendiary . … Not really new, but to me they’re new … like super heavy, and then he’ll be like, ‘Check out this band from England , The Chisel .’ And they became one of my new favorites. They’re a good combination of old skool, just English hardcore punk … leading towards Oi music , but I would love to see them with any hardcore band because it’s such a good mix. On the smaller scale with smaller tours, you can still see that good mix. MaM : Did you notice any regional differences on this latest tour with how the crowds received your music? LK : The Life of Agony tour was good for us because they took us to parts where we have never played. They took us to Michigan and usually we only play in Detroit when we go there, but this time they took us to Flint, Mich. , and we played in front of, which seemed to us, like a totally new crowd. There were guys there that were 50 years old going, ‘I’ve never heard of you guys. I’ve never seen you.’ That’s insane! … But they loved it, and they bought merch and records, so it was great. It surprised the hell out of us. (laughs) It’s also that Life of Agony has that bigger metal following and they were embraced by the whole world for decades, and those people don’t see a mixed tour very often. Life of Agony could have taken a younger, more prominent act as their opener, but they wanted to thank us for influencing them when they were younger. And when they went to Europe , they took Prong and Madball with them, which I think is a great thing. They wanted to repay bands like us and to mix the bill, which I thought was good. credit: Jeff Crespi - Lou Koller MaM : So, as far as the current crowds, do you feel the younger generations are embracing your music more or do you find that it’s the older crowd, like me, who are loving your shows these days? LK : It’s weird for us because being around so long, we used to get a good mix … we had our fans from the beginning, and we had younger kids coming. Now, it’s like the 16-to-25-year-olds who have their own stuff. We’ve had experiences where we’ve taken a younger band out that was heavily influenced by us and they’re the hot hardcore band. And they’ll be on stage, and they’ll say, ‘You know, we wouldn’t be a band if it wasn’t for Sick of it All ,’ and when they finish their set, their fans will just leave. They don’t care. They don’t stick around. It’s strange. Now, what I’ve seen, like in Europe , … it has been constant … where you have the older fans and generations still coming. But in the U.S., if we play an all-ages show, it’s usually our older fans who bring their kids and make them watch us, so sometimes it works. (laughs) credit: Jeff Crespi - Pete Koller MaM : Let me ask you as far as continuing to make music, how long do you plan on continuing? Do you just want to do it until you can’t anymore? LK : Yeah, that’s why I’m itching to make a new record. I’m very nervous when we do it, and I love the songs in demo mode, but I’m always worried no one is going to like it and then once the finished product comes out, I go, ‘Oh, I was scared for no reason.’ We always say we’re going to do it until it’s not fun anymore, but we’re always having fun, which is good. What’s good for us is that we all love playing live. It’s just a fact that we’ve always presented a very high-energy live show. If I ever physically can’t do it, I don’t want to just be standing around. (laughs) Zack from Rage Against the Machine tore his Achilles tendon and he had to do the tour sitting down. You could see in his face that he hated it. Same thing with Barney from Napalm Death . We did a run with Municipal Waste and Napalm Death and Barney had hurt his ankle. We all said he should go to a doctor, and he didn’t want to go. It turned out his ankle was broken. He didn’t know it and kept standing on it and destroyed [it]. He’s still having problems to this day. He had to finish that tour with us in a chair. Then, last year, he was doing a U.S. run and, sure enough, same ankle, completely destroyed. He had to finish the tour sitting in a chair and now, who knows if he’s gonna ever be able to stand on that damn ankle again. I don’t know if I could just sit there in a chair for the fans. It’s not Sick of it All if I’m sitting in a freakin chair, you know. credit: Jeff Crespi - Craig Setari MaM : Yeah, no kidding. It ruins the whole live experience. So, do you have any crazy stories from over the years with being on the road that you could share? LK : I mean, there’s so many. You know with the book they did about me and my brother, ‘ The Blood and the Sweat: The Story of Sick of it All’s Koller Brothers ,’ there’s a story in there that everyone asks us if it’s true. The story about when we were playing in Pennsylvania at a club called The Sonic Temple and after the show, we were packing up the van when these kids came up to us and said, ‘Yo, there’s a guy over there and he’s got a gun and he says he has a head in a bag,’ and, sure enough, he had something stuck in his waist, and we could see it wasn’t a gun, and he comes over and he’s talking all crazy saying he's going to kill everybody and we’re all, ‘Yeah yeah yeah,’ and he opens up the bag and there was a head. … It could have been a mannequin head, I don’t know, and we all hop in the van and as we’re driving away from the parking lot, all of a sudden there’s, like, 15 cop cars and we’re just like, ‘What just happened?’ MaM : (laughs) Wow. I wonder if he decapitated someone. (laughs) LK : Well, we don’t know. (laughs) We’ve always tried to look it up online and we can’t find anything, but it was awesome. MaM : So, one question that I am dying to know the answer to involves your logo. It is iconic and is immediately associated with you guys, but how did the Sick of it All dragon come about? LK : The very first idea for it was when we saw it on a flash sheet by the famous tattoo artist Greg Irons . He had a similar version of it. It was when one of our friends was joining the Marines , and he was, like, 17 or 18, and we all decided to get a tattoo together because we had this crew who always hung out together. I think it was Pete who redesigned the dragon for us, and it just happened to be in the photo of our first seven inch. It was a photo of my tattoo of it and then it just got associated with us from then on, then it became very iconic. The iconic Sick of It All dragon It’s funny, too, because decades later, we had a good friend who worked in the record industry and she was working in the hip-hop world and she’s walking through the office one day and she sees a co-worker with a big poster behind his desk and it had a picture of the earth burning with the Sick of it All dragon and she goes, ‘Is that a new Sick of it All record?’ And he goes, ‘Sick of it All? No, this is the new Mobb Deep album cover,’ and she goes, ‘You better check where that logo is from.’ It was very funny. MaM : Wow. LK : They said they got it from a tattoo parlor, which maybe they could have because they’re from Queens and we’re from Queens, but most likely… they would go hang out with this Queens group called The Beatnuts , who were hip-hop DJ guys … and on their apartment door was a bunch of stickers and one of the stickers right in the center was a Sick of it All sticker with the dragon. So, you know they saw that dragon with our name on it and used it. We made a deal with them, though: They were not allowed to use it on their album covers because it was associated with Sick of it All. We actually have a fan who owns two or three pizza places in Berlin, Germany , and on his pizza boxes, he has the Sick of it All dragon, but he asked us if it was ok to do it and we said sure. Now, though, on his pizza box, he still has the dragon, but he puts our Instagram handle with it, too. MaM : Approaching a tour these days vs approaching a tour then—is there anything you do differently when preparing for a tour? LK : For me, personally, I must get my voice in shape. It’s not like it used to be where we would jump in the van and hang out and yell and scream all day, then get on stage and play. I have to rest my voice and I have to work into it. As far as the whole band, it’s kind of gone back to the beginning where, especially in the U.S., where touring in vans again, Armand will plot the tour out with our booking agent and the rest of us will do other aspects for the tour, like I do all the social media for the tour, and then we all have to deal with the merchandise again. MaM : So, you guys have your hands in everything when preparing for a tour. LK : Well, we have to. Personally, I am the lazy one in the band. I liked it in the mid-90s to the late-2000s when we had people doing everything for us. It was great. Back then, we could call up our manager and be like, ‘I have this idea,’ and he would be like, ‘Alright, give me two days,’ and then he would either get it done or he would say it can’t be done. MaM : As a veteran musician, what is one piece of advice you could give the up-and-coming musicians who want to be seen and heard so they can establish a legacy like you? LK : The best advice I could give is play what you love. I mean, it’s fine to emulate your heroes, but eventually you’re gonna find your own sound, but make sure you love it. Also, too, and I know this is going to sound weird, but what stops a lot of other bands is a lot of infighting about money and we, Sick of It All from day one, have always divided everything equally. Everybody inputs as much as you can, but for the first two albums, it was 90% me and Pete writing everything and Armand contributed, too, but at the time Armand was in two other bands, but by ‘ Scratch the Surface ,’ when Craig had joined the band, it was all four of us working together and Armand writing and he and I splitting the lyrical writing; then, the music was split between Armand, Pete, and Craig. Now, it’s good, because I think that everybody contributes to everything. Especially like with the last album, Pete would come in with songs and have 90% of the lyrics written for each song. Craig and I would then sit down and change some of the lines or redo them or Armand would re-write with me or Craig , and it’s so much more of a unit. Love what you do and, I know it sucks, but I didn’t join a band to fill out paperwork. Learn the business so you don’t get f**ked over. MaM : Last question: What’s on the agenda for Sick of it All for the remainder of 2023? LK : We’re trying to keep busy. We’re writing and we have the Life of Agony tour coming back up in August again. We’re going back to Europe in June and July , and I’m going to be a tour guide at The Punk Rock Museum , which Pete just did it, too, but we have quite a bit coming up. Stay tuned. Be sure to catch Sick of it All live before their tour wraps up on August 27, 2023, in their hometown of Queens, N.Y. To learn more about Sick of It All: Sick Of It All – NYHC Sick Of It All | Facebook Sick Of It All (@SOIANYC) / Twitter Sick Of It All - YouTube SICK OF IT ALL (@sickofitallnyc) on Instagram Sick Of It All | Spotify Sick of It All Tickets, 2023 Concert Tour Dates | Ticketmaster *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 Nicole Brice is a lifelong lover of punk and hardcore. She may look like a wuss, but we assure you she has military training, is a badass with an M-16A2 rifle, and her music collection is stocked with all the heavy hitters you can handle. Reach her at the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

P.A.C.A. < Back Punk Music Festival to Benefit Local Non-Profits that Work with At-Risk Youth and Children of Child Abuse/Neglect Nicole Brice Feb 25, 2023 Share P.A.C.A. P.A.C.A. or Punks Against Child Abuse was formed in a living room late one night in early January 2023 with the purpose being to showcase a music festival from September 15-17, 2023 in Catoosa, TN that includes other vendors to use the funds raised in supporting non-profits that work with children and youth that are impacted from abuse/neglect. The organizations chosen to be supported are a vital resource to the state of Tennessee, especially in rural counties like Jamestown, Cookeville and Crossville. The non-profits are CHANCE Girls Youth Home, UC Foster Closet and STARS Nashville. The UC Foster Closet works hard to support families by hosting and providing special events, establish community support through Foster Friendly Partners, and provide opportunities for fellowship with other foster/kinship families with “Connecting Families.” CHANCE provides a safe, highly structured, therapeutic environment where each youth knows their value, and with compassion and perseverance, relationships can be restored; providing an opportunity to change these kids lives to where they can discover their strengths and gain the confidence needed to lead healthy, harmonious, and productive lives when given a second chance. This facility serves youth, ages 12 – 18, and their families, primarily from the Upper Cumberland area of Tennessee. STARS Nashville helps all young people pursue their unlimited potential. STARS has served some of the most disenfranchised populations by providing school-based prevention and intervention services, as well as intensive outpatient treatment services for adolescents with substance use and co-occurring disorders. According to Kids Count 2020, Tennessee had over 67,000 cases of child abuse. CACTN also reported that in one year alone, over 4,000 cases of child abuse were reported in the state of Tennessee. According to Kids Count, youth in Tennessee experience two or more ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and this is higher than the national average and one in ten are living in poverty. The plan is to bring in bands, craft and food vendors at Catoosa, TN for a two-and-a-half-day charity festival that will be an all-ages event where alcohol will not be served. There will be a wrestling match on site sponsored by the wrestling group in Crossville also. In addition to music and wrestling, there will be goat yoga and/or goat cuddling and a balloon vendor that offers face paint for the children. The current band list is comprised of different types of punk bands that include punk rock; hardcore punk; skate punk; folk punk and more. Most of the bands are from Tennessee but some are coming from Ohio, Oklahoma, Indiana, and even New York. There will be a wide variety of food offerings from coffee to pizza to Germanic/Hispanic food and day and weekend passes will be available for the event. More than forty bands, craft vendors and food vendors have signed on to participate thus far. Since this festival is at Catoosa, there will be 180 acres of land which will allow the patrons to camp on site if needed. PACA is currently seeking donations and sponsors for this incredible event and there are three levels of sponsorships available. For more information about sponsorships, contact Kassandra Morgan at 931-704-2919 or you can e-mail pacafestival@gmail.com . To learn more about the event, visit www.pacafestival.com or visit them on social media at: Punks Against Child Abuse | Twitter, Instagram, Facebook | Linktree www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Previous Next

Extraordinary < Back Funny, Filthy, and Full of Superpowers Keeley Brooks Feb 17, 2023 Share Extraordinary In an age of urgency and digital content overload, sifting through available titles on different platforms searching for something new to watch can be super frustrating and time consuming. Lucky for you, I’m a bit of a content hooker and am here to kind of help narrow down some of those titles for you by bringing you some of my personal recommendations. This past weekend, while taking a breather from binge-watching MTV’s “Teen Wolf,” I decided to jump over to Hulu and see what’s up with one of their new shows, a comedy series called “Extraordinary.” And I’m glad I did, because I spent the next few hours bingeing season one, giggling, laughing out loud, and falling in love with everything about it. “Extraordinary” is British superhero comedy about a hopeful but desperate girl in her mid-20s adrift in a big ol' confusing world. She’s skating on thin ice at her retail gig, is sexually frustrated, and is anxious about the fact she doesn’t have much to show for her young-adult life thus far. Oh, and it takes place in a world where everyone gets a superpower on their 18th birthday. Some people can walk through walls (or over them). Other people can fly. Some people wear eye patches because their superpower is getting other people to tell the truth. Others have super-human strength or the ability to shapeshift or move through objects or teleport. There’s even a character known as “the jizz guy” simply because he holds the power to make any living being—even a cat—have an orgasm if he touches them at all, in any way. I’d really love to be able to gift you the scene of the cat having an orgasm because it’s hilarious, but I couldn’t find it online. I can tell you it’s in the beginning of episode two, though! So, everyone gets a superpower on their 18th birthday, except for our main character Jen; she’s been waiting for six years to find out what hers is. Her life and what that’s like for her is our main storyline, and it’s quite an entertaining one. Jen lives with her BFF Carrie and Carrie’s boyfriend, Kash. Carrie can channel dead people, and Kash can turn back time at least a few minutes, but he uses it to do shit like rewind time to make sure Jen doesn’t see him in a costume that says “SUPER COCK” on it. He also prefers to create a group of vigilantes over getting an actual job. Jen also has a cat named Jizzlord, who is actually a dude unable to figure out how to control when and where he takes on cat form. He’s been stuck in cat form for three years and as a result has forgotten a lot about human life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdtyxmTRABs The show has some pretty big laughs, some moments that are tender and sweet, and it offers up a unique take on the whole superpower thing. Having a superpower isn’t as big a deal in this world, and that sets up an entirely different vibe than most superhero content we’ve seen. The gag is that most people use their powers for dull, often selfish reasons. With an entirely English cast, “Extraordinary” is created by Emma Moran and season one has eight 30-40-minute episodes you can get lost in for a little while. Enjoy, my friends. *Quick side note: I also recommend getting into the “Teen Wolf” series. I have a thing for werewolves, and this one is really great, especially once you get past some of the young-adult stuff, and it boasts a great storyline, some pretty awesome werewolves that are cleverly designed, a good bit of blood and gore, and some super-cool fight scenes. The wolf fights are a-plenty! Plus, Dylan O’Brien of the “Mazerunner” movies is hysterical and absolutely perfect as Scott’s best friend Stiles. He’s a bit different from the Stiles most of us were introduced to in the 80s movie “Teen Wolf,” though. I haven’t seen him surfing on the top of any vans through the middle of town ... yet. Here, he's very smart and funny, especially with piecing things together and helping his cop dad solve different crimes. He’s very analytical. O’Brien also is reminiscent of the very funny Jim Carrey. Not only does he favor him in appearance, but he also favors Carrey in his ability to make people laugh. He adds a touch of levity to every single scene. You can find all six seasons streaming on Hulu and on Paramount Plus. Then, when you finish that, go watch the new "Teen Wolf" movie that released recently; it's streaming on Paramount Plus. You’re welcome. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

New titles streaming in December boast Reacher Season 2, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Marvel’s What If … ? < Back December 2023: What to Stream Keeley Brooks Dec 6, 2023 Share New titles streaming in December boast Reacher Season 2, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, and Marvel’s What If … ? Well, kiddos, it looks like the streaming pickins are slim again this month, but not too slim, and just in time for the big holiday break. If you’re a fan of Christmas content, you’re in luck because there’s plenty of that to go around. If you’re not a fan of said content, you’re still in luck because there are several new titles arriving to your favorite platforms. December sees the premiere of Reacher Season 2 and the new Percy Jackson adaptation, as well as the animated Marvel offering What If …? Here’s a list on the most noteworthy titles dropping in December. Culprits (Dec. 8 on Hulu) Who doesn’t love a good heist thriller? This British series follows a crew of experts who apparently pulled off a big job and have since scattered and taken on new identities while the heat of the robbery dies down. Only, they’re pulled back together when someone starts killing them off one by one. Starring Gemma Arterton ( The King's Man ) and Eddie Izzard ( The Lost Symbol ). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFEs8MngEkM The Crown (Dec. 14 on Netflix) Queen Elizabeth’s reign is coming to an end, and after the first half of Season 6 dropped in November, the second half is finally here to wrap things up. The final six episodes will pick up in the aftermath of Princess Diana’s unfortunate and untimely death and will follow the royal family as they try to pick up the pieces after her passing. If you're watching A Murder at the End of the World on Hulu, you'll recognize the actress playing Princess Di. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1weI6ICx-hg Reacher Season 2 (Dec. 15 on Prime Video) With its healthy mix of an excellent cast, plenty of action, and an intellectually stimulating plot, Reacher Season 2 will no doubt be another success. When veteran military police investigator Jack Reacher (Alan Ritchson, of Blue Mountain State ) receives a coded message that the members of his former U.S. Army unit are being mysteriously and brutally murdered one by one, Reacher leaves his drifter lifestyle to reunite with former teammates and see what’s up. This season promises to be a hard hitter, so buckle up. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC-rRhQcnlI Leo Reich: Literally Who Cares?! (Dec. 16 on HBO and Max) Gen Z, apparently your leader has arrived in British comedian Leo Reich. His one-man show is sure to let you know that being young is “literally so hard, guys.” Reich takes aim at his generation of loafers through jokes and song, where he also discusses victimized phone zombies and the decrepit, apocalypse-creating, election-rigging oldies who made his life so hard. (His words, mostly). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKyZXASSnzk Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 1 (Dec. 20 on Disney+) Based on the best-selling book series by Rick Riordan , Percy Jackson and the Olympians tells the fantastical story of a 12-year-old modern demigod who’s just coming to terms with his newfound divine powers when the sky god Zeus accuses him of stealing his master lightning bolt. With the help of his best friends Grover and Annabeth, Percy Jackson embarks on an adventure of a lifetime to find Zeus’s lightning bolt and restore order to Olympus. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBrRQUtIqww Rebel Moon – Part 1: A Child of Fire (Dec. 22 on Netflix) Finally, famed director Zack Snyder’s long-awaited franchise arrives this month. Hitting Netflix right before Christmas, this mega-budget sci-fi action flick is inspired by the works of Akira Kurosawa , the Star Wars films, and Heavy Metal magazines and will no doubt feature Snyder’s well-known slow-motion effects. When a colony on the edge of the galaxy finds itself threatened by the armies of the tyrannical Regent Balisarius, they dispatch a young woman with a mysterious past to seek out warriors from neighboring planets to help them take a stand. Rebel Moon boasts big names like Charlie Hunnam ( Sons of Anarchy ), Michiel Huisman ( The Haunting of Hill House ), Djimon Hounsou ( Black Adam ), Sofia Boutella ( Kingsman: The Secret Service ), and Ray Fisher ( Zack Snyder’s Justice League ). Rebel Moon – Part 2 will be out in April 2024. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhr3MzT6exg What If … ?: Season 2 (Dec. 22 on Disney+) Though the Marvel fandom seems to be cooling off a bit these days, there’s one title in the MCU hoping to heat things back up. Providing standalone thrills (somewhat) safely disconnected from the larger MCU narrative, this animates series reimagines characters and familiar scenarios in fun, intriguing new ways. Season 2 boasts a batch of new stories following Hela, Korg, Black Panther, and more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR9NtvRR1u0 Letterkenny Season 12 (Dec. 26 on Hulu) Pitter patter, let’s get at ‘er, dammit! One last time, at least. The cult Canadian sitcom created by (and starring) Jared Keeso returns for its final season at the end of this month. This beloved rural community features hicks, hockey players, emo-goths, and other eccentrics as they happily live out their days making bawdy jokes and engaging in lightning-fast wordplay. Season 12 sees the small town contend with a comedy night at Modean’s, a country music hit, the Degens’ bad influence, a new nightclub, and an encore at the Ag Hall. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzV1exvN7HI Happy watching, and Happy Holidays, my friends. 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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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!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGKmwKSpxeg 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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmWQmj7GJjk 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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzwOLKTbCUw Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for entertainment consumption and an uncontrollable urge to write about everything she watches, even if it sucks. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

28 Days Later is one of the best zombie movies ever made, having popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. < Back 28 Days Later: Feast Upon This Keeley Brooks Oct 18, 2023 Share 28 Days Later is one of the best zombie movies ever made, having popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. Rating: 5 out of 5 raging zombies Growing up as a Gen Xer, I was, of course, aware of George Romero’s infamous zombie canon and was intrigued by the whole concept, but it wasn’t until the mid-2000s when a friend made me watch 28 Days Later (2002) that my intrigue completely changed. Not only was 28 Days Later my first introduction to the brilliantly talented Cillian Murphy ( Oppenheimer ), but it was also my first intro to a new kind of zombie beyond the slow, dread-inducing shufflers of the 20th century. Prior to watching 28 Days Later , I’d never seen (or even considered) fast, vicious, blood-thirsty zombies, and the idea was so horrifying to me that after watching it, my zombie interest turned into obsession. Although Nightmare City (1980) is often credited as the first movie featuring fast zombies, it was 28 Days Later that popularized the fast zombie craze of modern-day cinema and terrified zombie lovers and moviegoers around the world with its horrific scenario. And don’t get me wrong: While I love the concept, if fast zombies ever appear and start chasing us and we’re running together, I will trip you in my effort to reach safety. I’m kidding. Following the aftermath of a deadly viral outbreak in Great Britain, 28 Days Later focuses on Jim (Cillian Murphy, of Oppenheimer ), a bicycle courier who wakes up from a coma 28 days after an accident to discover bustling London life completely obliterated and in total destruction, not another human soul in sight. After wandering the streets alone and easing into a church, Jim realizes the horror of the situation he finds himself in when he is chased by raging, bloodthirsty, once-human creatures. credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures It’s only after he’s rescued by a couple of survivors that he learns what has happened. Nearly a month prior to Jim’s awakening, a group of eco-terrorists in Cambridge freed a lab chimp from its cage, not realizing the chimp was infected with a highly contagious, aggression-inducing virus called the “Rage virus.” Unlike what we’ve seen in other zombie movies, one does not have to be bitten to be infected. All it takes is one drop of blood from an infected to drip into your eye or mouth or an open wound, etc., and that’s it: You’re done. Within seconds, the virus overtakes its host, completely morphing him/her/them into a violent, vicious creature that aggressively salivates for one thing: bloody carnage. Case in point: Check out what happens to Brendan Gleeson ( In Bruges ) after a drop of infected blood gets in his eye (warning: the scene below is intense): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzdxUlCNPLA While this scenario is indeed horrifying, heart-pounding, and hair-raising, it’s not what makes 28 Days Later such a terrifying film. The fact that what was once the military has set up a blockade and is broadcasting protection as a cover to lure female survivors into sexual slavery so they can repopulate the world does. And this is where the movie really gets delicious, as Jim jumps into action to save the only two females he’s come to know—one being a minor. 28 Days Later shows what happens to society in a frantic, post-apocalyptic crisis. In such a scenario, you’d like to think that when there’s a common enemy to fight, humanity would band together, but it doesn’t happen like that: The law breaks down, forcing humans to self-regulate, and self-regulation always leads to a form of anarchy, which is what we see here. 28 Days Later is arguably the first zombie film to successfully show the true breakdown of humanity and those effects in a post-apocalyptic crisis. Furthermore, while these fast zombies serve as a symbol of loss and meaning amongst a plethora of society vacancies, they also serve as metaphors for society's need for immediate, mindless consumption of, well, everything. So where there are multiple interpretations of a zombie crisis between all zombie movies, one thing that remains standard throughout all of them: Human beings can’t be trusted to take care of each other in the middle of a crisis where there is no collective hope because consumption has taken over. There’s a lot about 28 Days Later that is hands-down masterful, including its horror within the horror story, but what I love the most is the way Director Danny Boyle juxtaposes the terror of what is happening with the beauty of nature (i.e., colorful geometric tulip fields and sprawling English country sides)—ironic since nature is where viruses originate. That alone is what easily makes 28 Days Later one of the best zombie movies ever made . In addition to its stellar narrative, the actors each give outstanding performances riddled with inherent fear, the cinematography is absolutely gorgeous, and the creative editing techniques as well as the soundtrack nicely drive the tension and pace of the movie, allowing the viewer to oscillate between safety and fear as 28 Days Later moves through its cycle of death, destruction, and rebirth. In 2007, a sequel released called 28 Weeks Later , but it was not written by 28 Days Later screenwriter Alex Garland ( Ex-Machina, Sunshine ), was not directed by Danny Boyle, nor did it feature Cillian Murphy and his character Jim. Some liked it; some didn’t. However, there is hope. Word on the circuit is that it looks like Garland, Boyle, and Murphy are teaming back up to bring us another sequel, which will likely be called 28 Years Later . I don’t know about you guys, but I’m already waiting with my giant bucket o’ popcorn and my safety blanket. Oddly enough, while 28 Weeks Later seems to be streaming multiple places, 28 Days Later is not currently streaming anywhere but is available to purchase and is well worth the fee. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcDhdb6J3rM Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for entertainment consumption and an uncontrollable urge to write about everything she watches, even if it sucks. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Hawthorne Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. < Back Reviews on the Real: Speak for a Minute by Hawthorne Oachs Nicole Brice Sep 10, 2025 Share Hawthorne Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. Hawthorne Oachs' voice, both angelic and haunting, floats like a whisper in her latest release, ' Speak for a Minute .' Oachs isn't merely singing; she is opening a door to something greater, and the world is ready to follow her through it. Released September 9, 2025 Released on September 9, 2025, ' Speak for a Minute ' has a more rock-oriented vibe compared to her previous releases. The song kicks off with a lively energy, perfectly complemented by Hawthorne's ethereal vocals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RZjFJvBvG6Y Lyric video for 'Speak for a Minute' This powerful track serves as a reflection on humanity’s unraveling and a bold call to change the status quo. The song confronts how power and greed have distorted our true nature. As the world faces turmoil, it’s time to raise our voices, and Hawthrone is leading the charge with each new release. As a songwriter with wisdom that belies her years, Hawthorne stands on the precipice of something extraordinary. Her music radiates a rare beauty that feels timeless, and her lyrics cut straight to the heart. She reveals truths that many try to conceal, weaving them into melodies that shimmer with both vulnerability and strength. “This death is irreversible. How could anyone not see it?” Hawthorne sings as she transitions into the chorus of "If I Could Speak for a Minute..." More than just a singer-songwriter, Hawthorne is a storyteller of the soul, crafting songs that resonate with honesty and pulse with emotion. ' Speak for a Minute ' is no exception. The lyrics unfold like pages from a diary, delicate yet unflinching, providing comfort through poignant expressions. Don’t take it from me, though; experience ‘ Speak for a Minute ’ for yourself. It’s worth it. To learn more about Hawthorne Oachs: Spotify: ‎ Hawthorne Oachs | Spotify Apple Music: ‎Hawthorne Oachs - Apple Music YouTube: Hawthorne Oachs - Speak for a Minute [Official Lyric Video] Website: Musical Artist | Hawthorne Oachs www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Drop us a line at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

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. https://vimeo.com/232845228 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. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCCfmt9WU5k 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

Truly a Time to Let Your Soul Fly Free < Back Metal: The Killer of Trends Nicole Brice Nov 10, 2022 Share Truly a Time to Let Your Soul Fly Free To say that Metal , especially Southern Metal, had a HUGE impact on my life would truly be an understatement. To be honest, I cannot recall a single time when Metal was not a staple in constant rotation within my music collection. The one band, though, that I can attribute to me truly getting into super heavy music, though, would have to be Pantera , and I had the opportunity to not only see them once in my life, but twice . Those memories will never be forgotten, and those ticket stubs will forever be treasured heirlooms as will my 1996 concert tee from the tour for The Great Southern Trendkill . The ticket stubs from when I saw Pantera LIVE Tour shirt from July 11, 1996 Pantera always had that in-your-face / want to punch something sound. I can recall hearing ' Becoming ' for the first time in my brother's burgundy 1984 Honda Accord on his Alpine stereo at full blast while riding home from school one afternoon. The aggressive guitar that starts the track gives an instant punch to the cojones and what a musical journey that song is. It never lets up. Aggressive all the way through. Dimebag truly was a pioneer of his time and is so missed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLP0xP2M4S8 'Becoming' by Pantera Shows were a way of life growing up and every show that came to town was a "must see". In 1996, my brother and his friends heard that Pantera was coming to town, and so, I instantly HAD to go, right? Add in the fact that they were to play with White Zombie , and duh, no brainer! We were there! We ended up scoring balcony seats, fail , but at least we were getting to go to the concert, so there's that. On May 7, 1996 , The Great Southern Trendkill was released, and the cover was so sick that I knew before I even pressed play that I was in for an incredible experience. To this day, ' Floods ' is one of my favorite Pantera songs, hands down, because of Dimebag's amazing guitar solo , and I like to listen to that track on rainy days in my car at full volume. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5pr9lDaEyw 'Floods' by Pantera Considered one of Pantera's most aggressive albums, The Great Southern Trendkill features some of the fastest tempos and down-tuned guitars in their entire anthology, and even though it was to be one of the last Pantera offerings for a long while after, it serves as a reminder of days past when Metal ruled, and life was simpler. The 1996 show with Pantera and White Zombie was killer, no lie, and was one of the BEST shows I have attended in my LIFE . White Zombie was incredible, Pantera was incredible, Eye Hate God ...not so much, but the entire show was definitely one to remember. Back then, it was my first time seeing Eye Hate God , and their set was lacking something. I can honestly say that after all these years, Eye Hate God has gotten so much better, and I really enjoy their live shows. They have become icons, in their own right. Many years later, on a whim, I bought tickets to see Pantera again, but this time they were playing with Soufly . Winner, winner, chicken dinner! I am a HUGE Max Cavalera fan, HUGE ! I, literally, cannot go a day without listening to at least one Sepultura or Soulfly song. Max's voice gets me so pumped up! Just a few of my fave Sepultura songs are ' Refuse/Resist ', ' Roots Bloody Roots ', and ' Ratamahatta '. I even religiously wore my brothers Soulfly t-shirt in high school, often pissing him off when he would go looking for it and couldn't find it. It was almost always in my room in my dresser, ha! Oopsie! No clue how it got there. ::grins:: I'm wearing the infamous Soulfly t-shirt here, but it's hidden behind this stuffed pig. No clue why I was holding a stuffed pig. Anyway, so ended up getting to that second Pantera show late and arrived in the middle of Soulfly's set, bummer, but at least I got to go, and Pantera did not disappoint, once again. Sadly, I did not get a t-shirt from that show, but I have the memories of who I went with and the experience. Those things can never be replaced. Even though, Pantera is no longer around with the OG's, the memories of seeing their brilliance on stage will forever live in my mind, and maybe if I'm lucky, I'll stumble upon a YouTube video in the future of someone who recorded the shows I attended. Even though we didn't have camera phones back then, some people did sneak video cameras into those shows, and I'm sure someone out there has footage. They just have to. Till next time, listen to good music, reflect on the memories, and let us teach the future generations what classifies as truly GOOD music. Love and Light -Nicole- Me in high school wearing my Pantera tour shirt in 10th grade Geometry class 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

Brothers is a Compelling Story about Rock Royalty < Back Book Review: Brothers by Alex Van Halen Nick Cline Oct 25, 2024 Share Brothers is a Compelling Story about Rock Royalty Brothers is the newly released memoir by Alex Van Halen . Most of you would know Alex from his hand in creating the legendary Van Halen . He is hands down one of the most underrated and perfectly rated drummers of the 80s (or maybe all-time). There is so much depth to the story and creation of the legendary brotherly duo Alex Van Halen and Eddie Van Halen . This is more than an excellent book for Eddie and Van Halen fans. It is also a great book for anyone wanting to glimpse the wild animal in the music business, the struggle and achievements of an immigrant family, and a story of a bond that defined music history. Released October 22, 2024 The story starts with a beautiful introduction that tells the overall sentiment and dedication of the book. Eddie Van Halen died four years ago this year, and the effects of his legacy will never know its bounds. Alex understands that the world sees his brother as a mythical creature and lives with the guilt of his younger brother's death. He introduces the book, claiming that he failed as an older brother because he was meant to die first. He makes light in his darkness by admitting that Ed, like always, was quick to burst in front of the line. The book, which delves into themes of family, music, and the human experience, is a compelling read for anyone interested in these topics. This sentiment is the first insight into the humanity of the two brothers. It's a reminder that artists, including the Van Halen brothers, start as everyday people. They fight tooth and nail to become the people we idolize in music. Their journey from nothing to everything they ever wanted is a testament to the transformative power of music. But it also shows the struggle of losing purpose in the world that initially gave them their purpose, a feeling many of us can relate to. Every word in the book will give you a new outlook on how everything can change in your life. It can all change in an instant. It makes you understand that no one is ready for their dreams and changed lives even though people have prepared and worked for it their whole lives. Living your dream, your truth, is much different than the constant days of preparation, dreaming, working, and killing yourself for the life you crave. But the Van Halen brothers' story is a testament to the fact that it's all worth it in the end, inspiring you to keep pushing forward. The Van Halen brothers' story is a testament to the transformative power of music. Alex vividly recounts their unconventional upbringing, a journey that took two outcast kids from Amsterdam to the United States in pursuit of a life they could only dream of. The beauty and darkness of the music industry are palpable in every chapter, as you witness the hardships and sacrifices required to become a musical icon. It's a journey that turns you from an unknown into a revered entity, a transformation that is both fascinating and inspiring. This is more of a tale of triumph and legacy than a run-of-the-mill memoir. It captures the bond that Alex and Eddie had, described as a bond very few people experience in this life and any other. The Van Halen legacy is not just a legacy of virtuoso musicians, but it is a legacy of sentiment, hard work, brotherly bond, family, strife, and everything in between. 'Brothers' captures all of that because Alex is unapologetically himself throughout the whole work, which grips the reader from the first line till the end of the last page. Eddie Van Halen and Alex Van Halen were everyday people with dreams. They found their dream. They fought for it, and they got everything they wanted. This is a book I highly recommend reading for fans of Van Halen , anyone in the music industry, striving artists of any class and caliber, and anyone who's dealt with the challenges of feeling like an outcast. The Van Halen brothers' story is a powerful reminder that even when you feel like you don't belong, you can still achieve your dreams. It's a story of triumph over adversity, and it's a must-read for anyone who's faced the ups and downs of life. To buy a copy for yourself: Amazon: https://a.co/d/hPnmIHd 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

Matt Mahaffey is Just Being HimsElf < Back Self-Made Genius: Tracing the Musical Legacy of Matt Mahaffey Noah Hughey Jul 10, 2025 Share Matt Mahaffey is Just Being HimsElf Matt Mahaffey doesn't mind if you’ve never heard of him or his band, Self . But if you have, the release of their first single in a decade might be a sign that he’s not quite ready to let go of the band that jumpstarted his career. The release of the single last December, ' Love You Less ,' coupled with a resurgence of the band on platforms like Spotify has led to a burgeoning community of new fans online in 2025, 30 years after the release of their first album, Subliminal Plastic Motives . Released October 24, 1995 For Mahaffey , music has always come naturally. “When I was a kid, once I got drumsticks, I would go beat on, you know, fresh barbwire to the fields,” he said from his home studio in Nashville, Tennessee. “You know, like, cause they would string it and it would have a tone to it, like, bzz . And each level of it was a different tone.” Born in Kingsport, the musical ballast he had access to was worlds apart from the sound he would end up producing in his early career. “My parents had disco and easy listening and Little River Band and Eagles and stuff like that,” he said. “I was just like, the 70s stuff was so boring to me, that I had access to in East Tennessee .” However, when an opportunity to join a local band sprouted up, he could not refuse. “And they're just like, we need a drummer. And I'm like, oh my God, I'm going to audition for a band,” he said. “Next thing I know, I'm like 13 and playing at Dollywood with them every summer, you know. And as soon as I could drive (...) I would drive up to Bristol, Tennessee (...) and just,” he began mimicking his rhythmic ticking of the drum, “all night long for hours and get paid 50 bucks or whatever.” A still shot from our interview Looking back at it, Mahaffey expresses gratitude for his origins in the south. When he first lived in Nashville and Murfreesboro during college, its reputation stood out as a cradle for country music. But the late eighties and early nineties were a time for change not only musically, but technologically. For Mahaffey , this meant the harmonies of traditional bluegrass came together with an influx of west coast hip hop to form a single artistic vision that remained in the back of his mind throughout his early career. “That's one thing that is my superpower, I always hear harmonies all the time and rhythm,” he said. “I started playing in rock bands in college and was a good drummer. And so in Murfreesboro, where I went to school at MTSU, there just wasn't a lot of drummers. It's a music school (...) And so, next thing I know, [I] was just playing in a different band several times a week. It's like punk rock on Monday, piano pop on Wednesday, reggae on Friday. And that was cool because that exposed me to a lot of different styles and meeting a lot of different people that just had different viewpoints on how to make music.” The project that was Self wouldn’t have been totally possible without his older brother, Mike Mahaffey . “He was my idol, you know, and he was so good at the guitar and he practiced so hard when we were kids. Then, when he was 18, he was just like, ‘I can legally go join a touring band,’” Mahaffey recalled his brother’s success swelling with pride. “He just moved up this rung really quickly of these agencies, the next thing I knew he was in Florida with a band called Blackfish signed to Epic Records (...) we were, just, both just in disbelief. And they made a record with Sean Slade and Paul Kolderie , who produced Radiohead's first album .” But for Mike, the ladder stopped in Florida with Epic Records , prompting a call home that would eventually give the world Self . “I was making beats in my dorm room and my brother called me from an Island, And he was like, ‘Hey, they're not putting out our second record. Can I come write with you?’ And I was like, ‘Come on,’” said Mahaffey . “And I had written ‘ So Low ’ and ‘ Marathon Shirt ’ for the first album. But it was just beats on a four track and he came in and just put his guitars on them and we got a record deal. Poof. And I was like, ‘Well, I guess we're a band, bro.’” Official video for 'So Low' Those first songs the brothers produced would go on to become the band’s first album, Subliminal Plastic Motives , which was released in October 1995. Setting a sort of unspoken precedent for their discography, the album seems to capture the essence of the era it was produced in its unique musical concoction. There is a distinct grunge that hits immediately, reminiscent of the sounds of bands like Nirvana which had taken the rock scene by storm during the mid nineties. And yet, less than a minute into the album’s first song ' Borateen ,' Mahaffey’s experimentation with hip hop and the unconventional electric sounds he’d been listening to in college are unmistakable. “Subliminal Plastic Motives has a special place in my heart because it was done to analog tape,” Mahaffey said. “You couldn't Google how to get a certain sound or make something work. You just had to figure it out (...) We beat on pots and pans, we everything and it's all very live. And this is before like you had a bajillion loops at your fingertips. It's more personal because it's farm to table. It's handcrafted, there's no presets back there.” Self was signed to Spongebath records that same year, and added Chris James as their keyboardist, Jason Rawlings on drums, and bassist Tim Noble (who’d be replaced by Mac Burrus after a 1997 tour). It seemed at the time that Mike had brought his accelerationist star power to the band. “Out of the gate, Lou Maglia [President, Zoo Entertainment] (…) sunk a million dollars into promoting the band to the industry,” Mahaffey said. “So we were in all the magazines, all the industry magazines, and we made videos, and they were on MTV and - they didn't really play them a lot, but they were on there - so people would recognize you, those types of things.” Official video for 'Cannon' from Subliminal Plastic Motives With the influx of money from major labels, the band, and Mahaffey in particular, now had the resources to experiment with the harmonic project that had been sitting in his mind since college. “Most of my successes with Self are more just artistic internal pats on the back,” he said, patting his own back and smiling. “Being able to have a huge budget and do whatever I want to in the recording studio, be like, ‘I want strings on this.’ And then next thing I know, there's a room full of string players and like, we're doing it,” he motioned around himself, as if he had been taken back to that studio, surrounded by a string section, an erratic passion inflamed in his eyes as he recalled his gluttonous request fulfilled by the studio. “It was just blatant, you know, waste, wasting money. But at the same time, like, you're making records. I was making records like my heroes made records. And that felt very good.” This might have been where the story ends. I could tell you that Self was endlessly propelled to fame, that they signed onto the early Dreamworks label at the turn of the century, contributing ' Stay Home ' to the original Shrek film soundtrack . That they influenced music history forever with the resources at their disposal to continue experimenting with the available sounds before them. But a combination of factors that fans and outside speculators alike have interrogated for the last 20 years would ultimately dim the shine of Self . First was the collapse of the Dreamworks label in 2003. “They went to a lot of artists on that label and were like, ‘Hey, you guys, we let you do what you want on the first album because we want to have a good reputation for making cool art. This time around, we kind of need something for the radio,’” Mahaffey said. At the same time, he was working on Self’s fifth studio album, Ornament and Crime . But just before they were to release the album, Dreamworks sold the label, which was ultimately dissolved, leaving the album on hiatus. Self's Ornament & Crime album Second was the untimely passing of Mike Mahaffey in 2005 , which happened suddenly while the younger Mahaffey was on tour in London with Beck . Losing one half of the creative vision behind the band and its lead guitarist, in the eyes of many fans, was the shattering point. That might be an overzealous exaggeration of the story behind Self . But Mahaffey said, “for obvious reasons,” his brother’s passing did effectively confirm at least a short period of radio silence from the band as their personal and professional lives changed elsewhere. It was this outside change that, as he conveyed it, seemed to have the greatest impact on not just Mahaffey’s career but the whole band’s collective future. When Maglia signed Self onto Zoo Entertainment ’s record alongside Spongebath in 1997, Mahaffey recalled him calling their music ahead of its time. Their distinct electric sound that blended the rhythm of hip hop with the harmonies of rock and pop music in a way that pioneered the alternative scene so early on was among the first of its kind on an industry level. “I think I was trying to blend a lot of different things and put a lot of square pegs in round holes that hadn't really gone together yet,” he said. “I wore all my influences on my sleeve, (...) I was trying to cram Prince and Depeche Mode and Smashing Pumpkins and Nine Inch Nails and Weezer , (...) and, you know, funk and jazz and everything into this tiny package.” Despite the millions of dollars poured into Self so early on, however, Mahaffey says the record buying public at the time largely felt like it was a lot of noise. Yet, that doesn't seem to hurt his feelings all that much. “When I look at it, I'm super thankful because I have friends that had a big number one song, and they're my age and they're like, ‘Well, I gotta go out on the road for three months and leave my kids and sing that damn song every night,’” he said. He looked to his right, a smile creeping onto his face as he began to say the next few sentences through a raspy chuckle. “And it's like, that's what I wanted. That's what you want when you get into rock, we're like, ‘I just want that hit song that everybody loves.’ And I never had one because my stuff's weird.” Perhaps at the time that was true. As Mahaffey describes it, perhaps the public’s “music ADD” wasn’t equipped for the combinations Self put together, the eclectic variety that birthed every new Self song, and the genreless limbo it existed in. Mahaffey still had to earn a living after Self’s indefinite pause in 2005 . “So I started working on Shrek and I started working on films. I started working for Hans Zimmer . And I was just like, this is where I belong. We make weird music. Composition is the place,” he said. “I toured in Beck's band for two years and got to play with Radiohead and every band that I grew up listening to. So it's like, and I still didn't like it, you know? I liked the people I was with, but it's just like, yeah, you're in Rome, but for like two hours, right? You're not seeing Rome. You're just physically there (...) I am more of a studio rat.” So, a studio rat Mahaffey became, pursuing composition as his full-time job while Self became something of a distant, if not fond memory. The same was true of his band mates, who would produce Prince’s last albums and book talent on the Jimmy Kimmel show , respectively. Mahaffey equated their collective work ethic to the band Pavement, which broke up in 2000, returned to tour in 2010, and once more from 2022 to 2024, toying with the idea of a new album. “They live all over the place and they’re just like, ‘You want to tour? Yeah, I got a minute.’ And they rehearse a couple of times and they go tour,” Mahaffey said. “And I was like, let's be like Pavement . We'll just do that.” Mahaffey smiled as he recounted his new career in composition, reiterating the love he has for Self that ultimately made it possible. “I love making records, but I love scoring,” he said with a boyish grin on his face. “Like it is just, I can't wait to work every morning. I’m just like ‘Coffee! Oh boy!’” He began to laugh to himself, “I'm so excited about my work all the time. ‘Cause it's infinitely rewarding. ‘Cause it's a brand new challenge every single day.” Acting as Self , Mahaffey did release their 2014 EP Super Fake Nice in a unique moment for him after he had built his dream studio, but it was more in line with the Pavement method of a periodic release in the middle of his busy days producing over 80 minutes of music for animation a month than it was a full return of Self . The EP was met with largely positive reviews, but some of the revamped sounds of the band in its modern form, taking on new harmonic equations to generate songs such as ' Runaway ' did throw some reviewers off, expecting a mid 90s nostalgia-fest. Released July 29, 2014 In the background, however, the platforming power of the internet to promote and store the unique sounds of Self would serve as not only a time capsule of their moment, but an opportunity for new fans with broader tastes for music in the future to discover the hidden gem that was the band. When Mahaffey finally got verified on Spotify thanks to a manager friend, however, this quiet underbelly of Self fandom would explode for the first time in 10 years. “It just got ridiculous. Where it was like 40,000 [followers], you know, I got 40,000, what is going on?” said Mahaffey . His verification on Spotify couldn’t have come at a better time, either. Other alt rock bands were getting verified and pushed together by Spotify’s new AI algorithm, such as Tally Hall and Lemon Demon . And it was one night, he passionately recalled, his daughter had the answer as to why. “She's like, ‘Dad, I think I've sleuthed it out.’ And she shows me her phone. And it's a video of Talley Hall listening to Dead Man and people thinking that it's a new Talley Hall song.” What this signaled as well was that Self was doing well with kids. Young people, as young as 14 years old, were discovering Self through TikTok edits and montages featuring some of Self’s most standout work. As the fandom surged online, they have begun scouring the internet for all the lost media of Self , one young fan commenting under the song, ' No One Knows You ' on YouTube , “LOL THE WAY EVERYONE IS DISCOVERING SELF AT THE SAME TIME.” 'No One Knows You' by Self To Mahaffey , who once spoke to Alternative Press a decade ago about the influx of younger fans 20 years after Self’s debut , to see that influx continue at full steam 30 years after Subliminal Plastic Motives has been nothing if not gratifying. Today, Mahaffey continues to compose full time, still fulfilled by the new musical creations he gets to experiment with day in and day out. “I'm writing more in this day and age than I ever did pumping out Self songs,” he said. More than that, the freedom his new life has given him has allowed him to more passionately pursue his family life alongside his work. “If I'm not doing that, then I'm hanging out with my kids. It's like, I want to be a competent father. My daughter has a rock band. Covered ‘ Runaway ’ two weeks ago at a show and didn't tell me about it. And that is incredible.” He laughed to himself. 'Runaway' by Self As 2024’s release of ' Love You Less ' indicates, Mahaffey isn’t ready to let go of the band that made all of this possible. “I want to do a record. And I have a bunch of cool stuff,” Mahaffey said, pointing behind himself to his home studio setup. In between different unfinished works, he took the time to polish off the peppy, upbeat love ballad that wasn’t quite what he had in mind for a sixth album. The song could be taken as indicative of what a new Self record will sound and feel like, carrying with it two worlds: One, the band’s distinct blend of 90s hip hop and alt grunge that is hard to recreate unless, like Mahaffey, you were literally there. The other will be the new sounds he’s been listening to, more instrumental, grand, no doubt working in his composition experience to give Self fans something worth waiting for. “It's one of those things that has to just be a labor of love,” he said. “You can't expect, like, anything in return other than, hopefully, comments online of people being like, ‘I like this.’” To learn more about Self: www.self.is Self Self is a band you like. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Got something for Noah to check out? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. < Back Reviews on the Real: Escape Your Fate by Caustic Waves Nicole Brice Sep 9, 2025 Share Escape Your Fate blends alt-rock energy with undeniable conviction. Released on September 5, 2025, ' Escape Your Fate ' makes a thunderous entrance, showcasing the strong alternative rock sound that Caustic Waves is becoming known for. This head-nodding track is filled with fuzzy guitars and a captivating groove. It’s truly impressive that Neil handles all the instruments and recordings himself for Caustic Waves . He is a remarkable Renaissance man . Released September 5, 2025 As a standout act, Caustic Waves is steadily building a reputation with their distinctive take on alternative rock , tailored for a new generation. They aren't just playing alternative rock; they are redefining it for an audience eager for something authentic. Neil’s voice, echoing shades of Brandon Boyd from Incubus , serves as the heartbeat of ' Escape Your Fate ,' providing the song with a timeless yet contemporary energy. One notable aspect of Neil’s compositions is that there is no build-up; each song kicks off with energy right from the start. The phrase “Trapped in a cage, there is no escape” resonates in my mind as I reflect on ' Escape Your Fate ' further. Around the 2:15 mark, an incredible guitar solo elevates the song to a new level, paving the way for Neil’s vocals to soar back in, continuing the strong lyrics and message. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8M7NIuGTN0 The official video for 'Escape Your Fate' by Caustic Waves ' Escape Your Fate ' showcases Neil at his best, blending his Boyd-like vocal grit with Caustic Waves’ heavy alt-rock energy, all delivered with undeniable conviction. Stream ' Escape Your Fate ' now and get ready for the full EP release in October. I know we can't wait for that! To learn more about Caustic Waves: Spotify: Caustic Waves | Spotify Bandcamp: Music | Caustic Waves YouTube: CAUSTIC WAVES - YouTube Apple Music: ‎Caustic Waves - Apple Music www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach us at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

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

A moderately entertaining creature feature with storms, flood waters, and hangry alligators < Back Film Review: The Flood Keeley Brooks Jul 12, 2023 Share A moderately entertaining creature feature with storms, flood waters, and hangry alligators Recently, I had the chance to screen the upcoming horror thriller flick The Flood . Written by Chad Law ( Section 8 ) and Josh Ridgway ( Howlers ), the film is directed by former die section heavy metal vocalist Brandon Slagle ( The Black Dahlia Haunting ). The gist is this: In a small town in Southwest Louisiana, the local sheriff must lead some prisoners through a daring jail break during a massive hurricane in rising flood waters infested with a horde of hungry alligators. While The Flood presents us with an interesting scenario and is moderately entertaining, it's just another creature feature installment that falls short on delivering a solid horror movie full of gore, thrills, and chills. Starring Nicky Whelan ( Maneater ) and Casper Van Dien ( The Most Dangerous Game ), The Flood follows a federal transport van carrying five prisoners and their guards. With increasing winds and rising flood waters, they find themselves in need of a safe place to ride out the storm. In the tiny fictional town of Lutree, it seems the local jail is the only option. As the prisoners take shelter in the holding cells, the sheriff and a few deputies secure the building and discover not only are flood waters pouring in at the sublevel, but they’re also alive with hungry alligators. As water continues infiltrating the building and rising, gators make their way to the main floor, trapping everyone they don’t eat first in the holding cell room. As a result, the sheriff, the prisoners, and a few guards must make their “ daring jail break ” to survive. from Saban Films Oh, and somewhere in there tucked amongst all of that is some weird, flirty relationship between the sheriff and a certain prisoner, which doesn’t really function as anything other than an underdeveloped subplot of awkwardness. With Hurricane Gustavo bearing down on the city, conditions worsen as survivors struggle to make their way through the ceiling to the roof so they can escape the hungry horde. I don’t know about you, but I hardly consider four alligators to be a horde. A handful, maybe, but definitely not a horde. While the plot is decent, the film falls short in providing us with a solidly fleshed out storyline full of interesting dialogue and subplots—even subtext. And it definitely lacks in thrilling us with any real tension and horror, especially like what we saw with Alexandre Aja’s 2019 hit Crawl . The acting was okay, but it could’ve been better, and the effects are pretty low budget. The characters aren’t very memorable either, short of a smart-mouthed prisoner with an attempted Cajun accent and the town sheriff, who is a woman (Nicky Whelan). I have no problem with her being a woman—I love this, in fact. I just don’t particularly care for the way she is portrayed. Let’s be realistic, here: This movie is set in Southwest Louisiana. As someone who was born, raised, and lived most of her life in South Louisiana until recently, I can say with certainty that while hurricanes, flood waters, and alligators are a reality down there, sheriffs being hot babes with big knockers, constantly perfect dewy makeup, and hair always wet enough to look like a Sports Illustrated model on location are not. I’m sorry, guys, but I’ve never seen it. That’s not to say a beautiful, big-boobed babe can’t be a town sheriff; she absolutely can, and more power to her for that. But there isn’t much about this town sheriff that’s realistic or authoritatively official. from Saban Films I’m not downplaying Nicky Whelan at all--she wasn’t half bad. She makes a solid effort that would’ve best been met with a better supporting cast and a better fleshed-out narrative. Also, more effort could’ve been put into executing this story beyond just making sure she looked sexy in every scene. The scenario could’ve used more hangry gators, more urgency and chaos where the hurricane and jail break were concerned, more fear and desperation from the characters fighting to escape hangry beasts, and more action and gore in the gators’ sneak attacks—some of which were really good. I imagine had the filmmakers received a bigger budget, we’d have seen a different film. This felt rushed and centered more on a hot babe leading a group of men to safety instead of on escaping death in a raging hurricane with flood waters full of angry alligators. The Flood should have taken a bigger cue from Crawl on how to successfully create a horror thriller that depicts a destructively intensifying storm with flood waters full of bloodthirsty threats. In not doing so, they missed an opportunity to create a measurable creature feature to add to the queue. The storm here didn’t really seem that intense at all beyond the flood waters, and the four gators they held looked more like the alligator blow-up rafts found at Wal-Mart than actual hangry creatures. Despite all its weaknesses, there were a few moments that got my blood flowing that will get yours going, too. The beginning of the movie isn’t half bad and does a good job of setting the tone, and there’s a pretty good scene that involves narrowly escaping the jaws of a pissed-off gator, but overall, the movie ended predictably and quite abruptly, and it was rather anticlimactic with no real message, other than if you're down in Louisiana when a hurricane hits, be cautious of any flood waters. Then again, that's kind of Saban Films' thing: B-horror movies that fall short on hitting the mark but are still somewhat entertaining if you're bored. This watch is probably best left as a rainy-day rental or stream. For a more in-depth review of The Flood , click here . The Flood hits theaters everywhere in the U.S., on Apple TV, and on Video On Demand Friday, July 14. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgNtxm5aTv0 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

Cutting deeper beneath the surface to explore how the "Saw" franchise's John Kramer (Jigsaw) fits into the paradigm of passive nihilism. < Back The Philosophy of John Kramer and the Saw Franchise, Part 3: Film Analysis Ezekiel Kincaid Oct 25, 2023 Share Cutting deeper beneath the surface to explore how the "Saw" franchise's John Kramer (Jigsaw) fits into the paradigm of passive nihilism. Welcome back, boys and girls, to your blue-collar philosophy lesson with Zeke. I hope you’ve been enjoying this philosophical series of Saw franchise articles so far, and I also hope you’ve had some time to start watching the Saw franchise again so you can see firsthand what I am discussing in this series. In the next two articles, we are going to get into the nitty gritty of my theory. But before we do, I’d like you to know I’m not the only one who has come to this conclusion about John Kramer operating under a Nietzschean nihilist philosophy. There are others, such as Steve Jones, who goes into much more detail than I do in his book “ To See the Saw Films ”. Unlike Jones though, I am breaking this down to a more understandable level so even if you don’t have a background in philosophy, you can follow what I am saying. Without further ado, let’s jump headfirst into how John Kramer fits into the paradigm of passive nihilism . Basically, Nietzsche understands a passive nihilist to be someone who is angered by the world's attitude towards “fundamental values,” which include but are not limited to their own apathy towards existence. Or, to put it into John Kramer’s terms, they are people who “don’t appreciate their life.” In the Saw films, Kramer is angry over his belief that the majority of people do not appreciate their own existence. To him, the ability to appreciate life is what gives life meaning and purpose. Therefore, if a person takes life for granted, they are considered by Kramer to be goalless. This means his games, traps, etc., are all a ploy (therapy maybe?) to help them realize survival is the only goal in life. Thus, enduring and surviving the game becomes their purpose for existence. credit: Lionsgate Entertainment Do you see how brilliant this is in the mind of Jigsaw? To him, making people play his games forces them into having endurance and survival as their present goal. It makes having purpose a present reality to them. In this way, John Kramer can solve his nihilistic crisis of living in a world where people have no purpose by forcing them into a situation where they have a purpose. The apathy Jigsaw sees in his test subjects is evident throughout the franchise's overarching narrative. Let’s start with Saw (2004) and everyone’s favorite character, Dr. Lawrence (Cary Elwes, of The Princess Bride ). If you recall from the film, his wife, Allison (Monica Potter, of Parenthood ), complains that he makes a façade of being happy, but he is really miserable on the inside. In other words, Dr. Lawrence is dead on the inside and is just going through the motions of life with no passion or purpose. As Lawrence’s game unfolds, we can place it beside Amanda (Shawnee Smith, of Anger Management ) and Paul’s (Mike Butters, of The Wonderland Murders ) and see the comparison. Amanda seeks to escape from reality through her drug addiction, and Paul sought to escape life through his suicide attempt. Therefore, to Kramer, Dr. Lawrence's passivity to life is no better than Amanda and Paul’s escapism. But what about Adam ( Saw creator Leigh Whannel)? Did any of you out there ever catch the stark contrast between him and Kramer when it comes to cancer? No? Well, let me point it out to you: When Adam is chained up, he is having a nicotine craving—so much so, he considers smoking a cigarette that may or may not be poisoned. He says he wants “that sweet cancer. I don’t care. I really don’t.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMmrpJDIQEc Do you see it yet? The irony is how passive (in the Nietzschean sense) he is about getting the very disease from which Kramer is dying. Such an attitude and statement from Adam further illuminates why Jigsaw chose him. To further illustrate the passivity of Kramer’s victims, let’s jump ahead to Saw III (2006) and talk about Rigg (Lyriq Bent, of Long Slow Exhale ) and Jeff (Angus Macfadyen, of Outlander ). As a police officer, Rigg has this unwavering compulsion to save everyone. His ongoing frustration in Saw III , however, is that he can’t save everyone. Jeff’s obsession is different. He’s pissed off and angry (maybe rightfully so?) over what he deems as inadequate punishment for the man who killed his son. Though Rigg and Jeff’s compulsions/obsessions are vastly different, their view of the world is the same: Things are flawed and no matter what, they cannot change these conditions. They are chosen to play their games because this type of attitude does not sit well with Jigsaw. According to Kramer, people do have choices and advantages, they just choose not to appropriate them. Kramer views Rigg and Jeff as pathetic, like the rest of humanity, because they view themselves as unable to change the world around them. The victims in the Saw franchise are what we call in biblical scholarly circles a synecdoche. A synecdoche is basically a symbol or example of something that is used to represent the whole. For example, the seven churches in the apostle John’s “Book of Revelation” are not only historical churches but are also meant to represent the worldwide church of all time as a whole. This is what we have taking place in Saw . Kramer’s victim selection is meant to represent the entire populace of humanity. From a passive nihilist perspective, disgust over this type of attitude is pretty normal. In Kramer’s view (and passive nihilism) the loss of truth, value, and meaning no longer create a crisis for humanity and they now just accept it as ordinary life. This is unacceptable for the passive nihilist, and as one, Kramer uses his traps to remedy this apathetic attitude . He wants to jolt his victims out of their apathy over life by placing them in a situation (his traps) where they will have to find value, meaning, and purpose. There is more I could go on about, like whether Jigsaw’s methods truly match his mantra, as well as the flaws in them along with the flaws in nihilism, but that is beyond the scope of these articles. The above is suffice to prove my point that John Kramer shows evidence of being a passive nihilist. Yet there is also another side to Kramer’s nihilism that rears its head in the Saw movies: radical nihilism. And it is this radical nihilism that we will investigate in our next and final post of the series. Until then, read some Neitchsze and watch some Saw movies! 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

Kyle Pfeiffer is a visionary creating a culture of acceptance for future generations of fans. < Back Blacklite District: Building a Digital Era Legacy Nicole Brice Sep 2, 2024 Share Kyle Pfeiffer is a visionary creating a culture of acceptance for future generations of fans. From the depths of personal tragedy to the triumphs of renewal, Blacklite District , aka Kyle Pfeiffer, is on a path to becoming the Trent Reznor of his generation with his one-man approach to making music. Since the early 2010s, Kyle has crafted a well-known brand with a loyal fanbase on social media and YouTube because of his impactful music videos referencing gaming culture, mainly Minecraft . Most known for the songs ‘ Cold as Ice ,’ ‘ Living in a Nightmare ,’ and ‘ Goodbye ,’ Blacklite District has had four Billboard Top 40 hits and is currently averaging over 242k monthly listeners on Spotify and over 65 million views on YouTube and has been granted a Grammy nomination in 2025 for Best Alternative Performance . For those who have never listened to Blacklite District’s music, it is a bit of hip-hop mixed with alt-rock and a little pop at times. It has a little something for every taste but remains dark and heavy at its core, just as Kyle Pfeiffer always intended. A visionary creating a culture of acceptance for future generations of fans , Kyle hopes his music will continue to be the soundtrack for kids who need uplifting positivity to feel like they matter and belong. Devoted to making his shows accessible for all, Pfeiffer has become known for offering earlier start times, and because of this, entire families sometimes travel many hours to catch a live performance. Set to embark on a new tour this fall, dubbed The Red Carpet Tour , in support of his latest album titled ‘ You Can Do Better ,’ we were able to catch up with Kyle Pfeiffer of Blacklite District recently as he gets ready to hit the road. Read on to learn more about this musical creative and the legacy he is creating. Kyle Pfeiffer of Blacklite District MaM : You have an impressive career, and I want to discuss your legacy so far. I read that you started in 2002. Is that correct? KP : 2011-12 was when I started getting attention, but 2002 or so was when I started jamming in my garage with friends. I was only 12 years old. I even started a band in 5th grade, too. All these years later, and here we are. MaM : So, what was the official year Blacklite District formed as a “band”? Take us through a bit of band history. KP : There’s been so much stuff over the years. It’s just been my project since the first day. It’s my brainchild. MaM : Like Trent Reznor with Nine Inch Nails ? KP : Exactly. I’ve had different members over the years, but then there have been shows where it has just been me on stage. My guitarist is Justin Sundlin . He’s been with me for almost three years now. My bass player is a guy named Clinton Cunanan . He’s also on my management team. Been working with him for a long time. We’re having fun. MaM : That’s awesome. So, do you have a drummer right now? KP : In an official sense, we don’t have a permanent member who is the drummer, but Chance Jones from No Resolve comes out and plays often for us. Blacklite District MaM : The new album was just released on May 3rd. How’s that going so far? KP : I love it. I’m happy with it. If the fan base likes it, then I’m good. The response we have been getting has been incredible. We’re about to release the second animated video, which we do these Minecraft videos , and it should be in the next couple of weeks. The momentum is just considerable, and streaming has doubled this week alone since the announcement of the new video. I think something has occurred with me as an artist, though I’m 34 now – I’ve been doing this consistently for the past decade or so, but something about this last project makes me feel so complete that I’m in a different headspace. It’s cool, though. The thing I love about music is that the journey can take you through many places, emotionally and even physically. It’s cool to see the growth and to feel that evolution through all of this. MaM : Yeah, just the creative journey. I’ve had a similar journey, so I get it. I’ve read that you’ve shifted genres a bit here and there. Have you noticed any differences in how your music was perceived when doing that? KP : You know, not really. It’s hard to say. I never came out and said I was changing my style to pop. When COVID happened, and the year before that, there was a slight switch in styles, but it was that it just didn’t have as heavy of guitars and was more beat-driven, but the melodies and vibes of the songs have always been dark. Even if there isn’t a guitar in the music, I still find heaviness. In 2021, I went to rehab and got into this new era of life where I wanted to return to my rock roots by having a full live band. Having some minor success with rock radio and then seeing these younger kids start blowing up with hip-hop and stuff made me have, I guess, like an identity crisis, and then all this hardcore stuff started happening to me personally, so coming out the other end was almost like I didn’t care anymore about being the next big thing. I decided I just wanted to make music that I’ve always loved, which has been rock music. That’s kind of where I’m at now. MaM : I’ve read that Ozzy Osbourne has been one of your biggest musical influences. I’m a huge Black Sabbath and Ozzy fan, but tell us more about that. KP : I actually have the tattoo right here, and the song ‘ No More Tears ’ just did it for me. MaM : Yes! I love that song! Even today, the beginning of ‘ No More Tears ’ gets me so pumped. I crank it up in the car. Do you think that song was the key factor in pursuing the type of music you play, or were there other things? KP : I always go back to the period when my mom passed away because it wasn’t just the music in the song but the message of no more tears and trying to move on. It was what I needed as a ten-year-old kid to feel strong. The second I heard it, I was hooked and asked my uncle to play the song again after it finished. That song made me know that any music I played had to be rock and roll because of how the music made me feel strong as a small kid going through so much. That’s the beauty of music. MaM : What do you think it is about music that makes you feel so passionate? KP : I always try to think about this, and it’s hard, but as a young kid who was afraid and shy growing up, it was a way I could say the things I wanted about people without actually saying it directly to them. If I wasn’t around and people wanted to know things about me, it’s all in the music. MaM : How are you approaching writing new songs these days? KP : It can be many ways. Sometimes, I’ll hum a tune and put it in my voice notes to save it. The title of this new album, ‘ You Can Do Better ,’ is a simple melody that popped into my head. My guitar player came up with some chords, and then eight months later, we started working on it after stumbling upon the voice notes. The ones that stick with me months later are the ones we tend to work on. That’s a good sign to me that something is there. Or, sometimes, we’ll write a song in ten minutes, and it’ll be great. It just all depends. MaM : Tell us a little about The Red Carpet Tour you have this fall. I heard that you’re doing some unique things for the fans. KP : We are! My audience includes many young YouTube kids who come out as families to see our shows, for which I am so grateful. These kids are so passionate about my music. It’s crazy that they are also discovering my music in different ways, like YouTube, but we’re doing these shows differently for this tour. We’re starting the shows at 6 p.m. to get the families out there. We’re making it more intimate for the fans. We’re also booking smaller venues, so it’s perfect. The Red Carpet Tour kicks off September 6, 2024 in Des Moines, IA. MaM : That’s incredible! That’s your audience, and you’re embracing it. I love it. Do you have a favorite song to perform these days? KP : Well, I have so many, and the cliché saying is they’re like my kids, and I love all of them, but ‘ Cold as Ice ’ is one of my most famous songs, and we’re looking to have it certified platinum because it has well over the number of streams. I look at that song as one that has changed my career. Another song of mine, ‘ The Struggle ,’ is my second most popular song and resonates well with fans. They’re also fun to play. Video for Cold As Ice by Blacklite District MaM : You know how to connect with your audience, which is excellent. Tell us about your best and worst performance so far. (laughter) KP : I love that. Well, there have been some bad ones over the years. I'm not going to lie about that, but one time … this was back when I was in my early 20s; we would play in this town called Deadwood . On the night of the show, it looked like it wouldn’t be a good show because we didn’t sell that many tickets, but about twenty minutes before we were set to go on, my bass player and I decided it was a good idea to start chugging beers and smoking a little. We got messed up in a short amount of time. So, we went to go back in, and the venue ended up being packed, and we did not have the experience to play drunk, and it just turned into a shitshow. (laughter) In terms of the best, it’s been these smaller shows I’ve been doing because of the audience's passion. I spent so many years playing where I was the opener, and no one would come to see us, so now, when I see a line of kids out the door to see us play, it’s remarkable. It’s like a dream come true. That vibe is what I’m so grateful for. Video for The Struggle by Blacklite District MaM : Over the years, have you ever received a good piece of advice from a fellow musician that you’ve carried with you? KP : You know, that’s a great question, and over the years, I’ve tried to sponge up anything I could. On my first tour, I opened for Saving Abel , and I remember being in awe of being on tour with bands I had heard on the radio. I remember the singer of Art of Dying telling me they could be opening for me a year from now, and I just thought that was the coolest thing ever. They ingrained in me that you never know whom you will encounter on the way up and how the roles may be changed or reversed quickly. MaM : Any plans or aspirations for collaborations in the future? KP : I always wanted to collaborate with Ozzy , but he’s not doing his best. I also want to collaborate with Jelly Roll , but it hasn’t happened yet. I would love to do something with Post Malone , too. I love how Post Malone is doing this sort of country thing, and even Jelly Roll has shifted to that, too. It’s almost as if hip-hop culture is shifting to more of a country culture right now. MaM : Outlaw country in a way. KP : This shift could lead to more guitar-driven stuff. It could be great for the rock stuff in the future. MaM : I agree. Last question for you. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? KP : That’s a great question. I have a decade’s worth of music now and several hits that the fans love online, so I am just focused on growing with these tours and doubling and tripling the ticket sales. I would like to see in the next five years that I can keep the momentum going, continue expanding on the fanbase, and build that real core audience that connects with me and the music, just as I’ve always done. I hope you and I can talk five years from now and be on different levels, just doing our thing, because I genuinely believe that the vibe and work you put out there is how you get there. Insightful, charismatic, and driven with many years of success and many more to come, Blacklite District hits the road on September 6 in Des Moines, IA, and wraps its tour on November 2 in Atlanta, GA. Be sure to catch a date if it comes near you. In the meantime, check out the latest, ' You Can Do Better ,' on all streaming platforms. To learn more about Blacklite District: www.blacklitedistrict.net Blacklite District Home page of Blacklite District, a rock artist from Black Hills, SD. Official Blacklite District website! The story of Kyle Pfeiffer, new music, photos, bio, and more. 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

Deondria is a visionary with a remarkable natural talent. < Back Conversations with an Indie Filmmaker: DeOndria Michelle Nicole Brice Nov 20, 2025 Share Deondria is a visionary with a remarkable natural talent. Sometimes the best introductions to new talent come from our very own friends. Originally from Chicago, Illinois , and now residing in Hobbs, New Mexico , DeOndria Michelle is an up-and-coming cinematographer, director, filmmaker, and editor who specializes in cultural documentaries, product productions, and imagery . She’s got a visionary mind that brings realism to all her work, and what I love most about her portfolio is her own style. I can’t describe it. It’s just raw and vivid and rich. Credit: Deondria Michelle A visionary, DeOndria has a remarkable talent for using natural light to create warm, inviting shots. Her careful use of light gives her videos an authentic, lifelike quality that draws you in, making each scene appear both effortless and beautiful. While she is currently working on a new commercial for a client, her portfolio continues to grow with many other endeavors, including three short horror films, also in the works. Initially, she wanted to pursue music, but then found her calling with the video camera, so how did we learn about her? As I mentioned above, sometimes the best introductions to new talent come from our very own friends, and my good friend Ronzo Cartwright from Stone Deep was the one who put DeOndria on my radar. Read on to learn a little more about her aspirations and more. MaM : Thank you for joining us today. So, you are a cinematographer, director, and editor, and you do it all. Tell us a little more about that. DM : I feel like you have to. You gotta do it all, especially when you don’t have the funding to outsource. Everything I’m doing, I learned on my own. I went to the same university as everyone else, YouTube , and I incorporated what I learned from there into what I do. I took the little bit I learned and have expanded on it as I go, so that I can incorporate it all into one vision. I like that I can edit it myself. It’s been a tough road, but I feel like I should have pursued this a long time ago. When you’re doing your own work, you know what your vision is, and to place it in the hands of someone else is hard. Filmmaking should be a team effort, in my opinion, but when you’ve done it so long by yourself, you don’t trust anyone else with your vision. You can only tell a person so much about what it should be. Art is subjective, so they can interpret it as they see it, but ultimately, it’s your vision. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p32br1XzOIw Beautifully Black by Deondria Michelle MaM : I read that you specialize in cultural documentaries and product promotion, but could you tell us a little more about what you do? I also see that you originally wanted to pursue music. DM : Music was my first love. I started as a singer-songwriter. I worked with a well-known producer at one point, but I realized that while music held my heart, it’s not my passion. My writing partner would be up early writing, and I just wasn’t in it. I didn’t want to be in a studio laying vocals and all that, but when I picked up a camera, I realized I loved it, and I could do that stuff all day long. From sunup to sundown, I could do videography. You get that feeling when you’re doing something that aligns with your soul. You know. MaM : What is your proudest achievement so far on this journey? DM : Recently, actually. I had stopped posting on Instagram during COVID for several reasons and just got back on. I realized I had almost 1,000 followers. When I first opened that page, I was doing a bunch of “follow for follows,” not realizing I was gaining dead followers rather than authentic ones, and that the algorithm would send this content to these followers, with very few engaging, because no one is actually there. So, I took it upon myself to test this theory, and I hope others will test it for themselves. I deleted and blocked every single account that was following me and left the 142 people I knew had followed me for a reason. I feel that the smaller person with fewer followers has a dedicated audience that has fostered trust, and trust is important in this industry. MaM : You kept the organic followers. DM : Correct, and prior to me doing that, my channel on Instagram was getting maybe 200-300 views, but as soon as I made the change, I posted a video, and that video skyrocketed my views. After that, each video kept getting good views and rising, and I realized my views were increasing by 250% or more. Even my engagement is up, and that was just last week. MaM : That’s incredible. See, most don’t even do a deep dive into the logistics of who is engaging and whatnot. In fact, every single follower we have on Instagram is organic. They found us and liked us. I have not done any tricks or anything. DM : Exactly, growing organically, and while companies think that inflated numbers are the way to go, I started reaching out to companies right after I did it, because my views had gone up. I optimized my platform for engagement. I want people who love the niche I’m in to follow me, and while it may have hurt me on the business side of things with fewer numbers, I’m now pushing my content to those who want to see it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NP5W16Hqac8 When the Sun Goes Down by Deondria Michelle MaM : So, what is it about video and filmmaking that inspires you and makes you want to pursue it anyway? DM : Initially, it was a dream, and one day I decided to take my camera out while watching TV because it had been in storage. The past two years, I have come a long way working on things. I think bringing stories to life is the most important thing. It’s more than a picture. It’s a footprint that will never go away. Good, bad, or terrible, it’s there, so for me, that’s something I want especially in this space, because in cinematography, there aren’t a lot of women. MaM : You are right about that. DM : My mentors are men. Even my unofficial mentor is a man—all men. There aren’t many black women in this space. For me, to build a position in this space is the most essential piece of the puzzle. I want to create that space for black women to thrive. You have your directors, filmmakers, and writers, but there should be a black woman in every single filmmaking space. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbj1Vs59u4s Stuck by Deondria Michelle MaM : I agree – I’m calling it now. You will become one of the most prolific woman cinematographers and videographers of our time. I have a feeling. You are going to inspire other girls and women. DM : I tell all women that being a cinematographer isn’t easy. I always chip a nail. Before I got really into this, I’d have my hair done every two weeks, etc. That was a constant. Doing it the way I’m doing it now; this is not a job where you get up and put on a full face of make-up. This is a space for your gym shoes, jeans, and a t-shirt. Get to work. MaM : What are you working on currently? DM : I am working on three short films, actually. They are horror films, so I’m working on a Thanksgiving one, a Christmas one, and a New Year’s one. MaM : That’s awesome. I love scary movies, too. DM : Each day, too, I try to do a complete lighting setup to practice. I’m still learning. A teacher is always a student, too. I’m not a master at it, but I keep trying new things each day. Credit: Deondria Michelle MaM : Do you have a favorite professional in this industry that you admire? DM : I really like Malik Hassan Sayeed , who worked with Spike Lee . He worked on Belly and Clockers and has done so many other films. I love his style and his work because it’s not the typical Hollywood look. I love the way he creates this bright, contrasty, noisy look in his work, and what I like most is that his style is achievable. He’s one of those whose work is complex but simplified. MaM : What is your ultimate goal you’d like to achieve as a creative in this visual world? DM : To leave a footprint. I want to leave my footprint so that the generation behind me knows who I am. I want to be in someone’s Mt. Rushmore. I want to make a place for women to be included in that conversation. With many projects in the works, Deondria’s talents will soon be known once she fully unleashes her creative prowess on the world. Be sure to follow her on social media to stay up to date on all her endeavors. To learn more about Deondria Michelle: YouTube: DeOndria Michelle - YouTube Website: deondriamichelle.com deondriamichelle.com www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Cutting beneath the surface to explore the Saw franchise's inconsistencies in John Kramer’s convoluted morality, his supposed purpose, and the theme of pawn sacrifice. < Back The Philosophy of John Kramer and the Saw Franchise, Part 2: Film Analysis Ezekiel Kincaid Oct 23, 2023 Share Cutting beneath the surface to explore the Saw franchise's inconsistencies in John Kramer’s convoluted morality, his supposed purpose, and the theme of pawn sacrifice. Welcome back to part two of your blue-collar philosophy lesson led by your good Ole Uncle Zeke. In Part 1 of John Kramer and Saw ’s philosophy , I made the proposition that understanding John Kramer’s actions and statements from the Saw franchise only make sense when viewed through the philosophical lens of nihilism. In this post, I’m going to point out places in the Saw franchise where Kramer's morality seems to be confused , and then as we move forward, we are going to look at these things through both passive and radical nihilism (I will define these terms later in the series). But first, we need to investigate these instances and the criticism against Jigsaw in order to truly understand his ethical foundation in light of nihilism. To begin, much of the hate thrown at Jigsaw is understandable, given his poor word choices. What do I mean? Those of you who have watched the Saw movies will get where I’m coming from, but those of you who haven’t need to stick with me, because when you do go and watch the films, you can keep this in mind when exploring these places of convoluted morality. In the original Saw (2004), John Kramer/Jigsaw (Tobin Bell, of Let Us In ) tells Amanda (Shawnee Smith, of Kill Speed ) she needs a key to escape from the reverse bear trap wrapped around her face. He says the key is located in the stomach of her dead cellmate and assures her by stating, “Know that I am not lying.” Copyright Lionsgate Entertainment He says the key is located in the stomach of her dead cellmate and assures her by stating, “Know that I am not lying.” The only problem? Jigsaw was lying. Amanda’s cellmate is drugged, not dead. Now jump ahead to Saw III . Kramer says he is the only one who knows where Jeff’s abducted daughter is. Not true. Again, he lies; Hoffman also knows where she is. Granted, these could just be mistakes in the script but whatever they are, they make Kramer come across as completely incoherent, even more so when we move on to Saw IV (2007). In Saw IV , Jigsaw tells Rigg (Lyriq Bent, of She’s Gotta Have It ) to force Ivan (Marty Adams, of Hemlock Grove ) into a position and let him choose his own fate. The only catch? In 60 seconds, the choice will be made for him. If Kramer’s purpose is truly to teach Rigg that people must save themselves, this added caveat seems to nullify such ends . Moral critics of the Saw franchise have had a field day with the above-listed examples, saying they are proof positive John Kramer was a hypocrite. But the accusations don’t stop here. The critics further scrutinize his ethical demands by blasting Kramer for making his victims choose immoral actions. Let’s jump back to the original Saw movie. Kramer instructs Zep (Michael Emerson, of Lost ) to kill a mother and her child in order to save his own life. This makes Jigsaw come across as someone who loathes any type of altruism or self-sacrifice for others. To Kramer, it seems like self-sacrifice just gets in the way of people valuing their own lives. But it doesn’t stop there. Critics go after Kramer for his victim selection as well. Take Saw IV , for example. I’m trying to avoid spoilers when I can, so let’s just say Ivan and Brenda (Sarain Boylan, of Rookie Blue ) in this movie are both guilty of criminal acts. These acts, however, are vastly different and in no way deserving of equal punishment. But guess what? Jigsaw punishes them both in the same manner. This all takes place during Rigg’s game. And what was Rigg’s game? To teach him that he cannot save everyone, which means these victims were just pawns and meant to die. In fact, Rigg isn’t even given instructions on how to save Brenda at all! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MN8r_17ElsE Then there is Adam (Leigh Whannell, of Insidious franchise) from Saw . Jigsaw never gives him a game of his own to play. He is just a pawn in Lawrence’s (Cary Elwes, of The Princess Bride ) game. This theme of “pawn sacrifice” carries on throughout the entire Saw series . Take Joyce (Gina Holden, of Alien vs. Predator: Requiem ) from Saw 3D (Saw VII) . She is completely innocent and is burned alive in order to punish her fiancé, Bobby (Sean Patrick Flanery, of The Boondock Saints ). Bobby even objects to Kramer by saying Joyce doesn’t deserve to be here. This random victim selection is a big problem in Saw 3D . We are never given any reasoning as to why Dina (Anne Lee Greene, of Femme Fatales ) or the racist gang are selected (other than they are racist). There is a great chance for Saw 3D to answer this question when Officer Mike asks himself, “Why them? Why now?” but these questions are never answered. There are more examples, but these are enough to show why critics say what they do about the Saw franchise, and about John Kramer’s convoluted morality and his supposed purpose. Indeed, these inconsistencies seem to really piss in the Cheerios of Kramer’s mission , which is to teach people how to value their lives . On the surface, his victim choice seems to be totally unjust and as random as natural selection in nature. This would indicate all of Kramer’s preaching on righteousness and justice are totally hypocritical. Mix this in with the fact many of the victims ARE NOT guilty of undervaluing their lives, and it is a glaring problem. Let’s go back to Rigg and Saw IV again. Rigg certainly seems to value life and seeks to preserve it. And what about the five victims in Saw V (2008)? I’ve watched it countless times and can’t find anywhere in the film where these people don’t value their lives. What is evident, however, is that they do not value the lives of other people. But the one victim in the entire franchise that doesn’t make a lick of sense according to Jigsaw’s mantra of appreciating life is Bobby in Saw 3D . He is not guilty of undervaluing his life or the lives of others—he simply lied about surviving a Jigsaw trap. Sure, it is a slap in the face to the real survivors, but it doesn’t mean he doesn’t value his life. The critics come out in full force over these apparent inconsistencies, arguing there is a huge disconnect between Kramer’s desire to save people and to murder them. To the critics, John Kramer is a murderer rather than the saviour he claims to be. Credit: Getty Images Jigsaw then becomes nothing better than the erroneous view of God who plays “Duck, Duck, Damn” with his creations, choosing people at random to condemn to hell. In their eyes, Kramer selects people just to eliminate them. So, I close with this: Given this information, what is Kramer’s mission? What’s his end goal? Is it to rehabilitate people or to kill them? Are the two outcomes really any different? Is true change only possible through the destruction of one's own flesh? Such questions belong to the paradigm of nihilism, and it is these questions we will seek to answer in the next two articles, which will compare John Kramer to both passive nihilism and radical nihilism. 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

The power of authentic expression < Back Women Who Rock: Wanda Wesolowski Tim W. Jackson Aug 7, 2023 Share The power of authentic expression Wanda Wesolowski doesn’t particularly sound like a rock star name. The bespectacled, coveralls-wearing, unadorned young woman, still in her 20s, doesn’t necessarily look like a rock star, either. But the North Alabama southern pop rock singer/songwriter/musician is becoming well-known as a talented force in the area’s rich music scene, leading Wanda Band to release its second full-length album, “Only Feeling” , on August 11. As that album prepares to drop, Wanda shared a bit about her success, her sobriety, and her sexuality in a beautifully unassuming and authentic way. Wanda grew up in Huntsville, Alabama, with supportive and musically gifted parents. She explains that her father, Chuck, plays guitar and bass while her stepmother, Jill, is a classical pianist. “We had a music room when I was a kid,” she says. “Guitars on the walls and a drum set and a grand piano. So, I just kind of grew up around that.” She started playing drums and took drum lessons at age 10. “I played snare in marching band and vibraphone, xylophone—all the phones,” she says. Wanda started playing the ukulele and then playing guitar and singing. By the time she was 14, she was gigging every week. Credit: Malachi Byrd “My dad would take me to my gigs, and he would stay the whole time and walk around and listen and kind of let me know what people were saying and give me tips and pointers.” She says that while her parents have always been very invested in what she does, it’s somewhat of a blessing and a curse, “because on the one hand, they're like, ‘Hey, what are you doing today for your music career to happen?’ I'm like, sometimes I'm doing nothing and that's okay,” she says with a laugh. Early on, Wanda was performing covers and even jingles because they were quicker to learn. Eventually she started going to an open mic night in Huntsville that required acts to play originals because the venue didn’t pay its PRO (performing rights organizations) fees. “That was really how I became a songwriter,” she says, “because I wanted to play and I was like, ‘I guess I have to write my own songs if I want to play at this open mic night.’” That was The Foyer, which, as Wanda remembers, “was kind of a golden age in Huntsville that a lot of people still talk about, ‘Remember The Foyer days?’ It was a coffee shop open until two in the morning and was a great hangout for musicians and college students.” In fact, it was at an open mic event in Huntsville where she first met its host, Andrew Sharpe. Wanda explains, “He said, ‘Hey, you're really good. You need a band. I wanna be in your band.’ And then I went in the next week, and he was like, ‘Hey, I got a band together for you. We rehearse on Monday.’ So, I was like, ‘All right, cool.’” And that’s how the Wanda Band was born. A few folks came and went but ultimately the band became a trio with Wanda on guitar and vocals, Andrew on bass, and Nick Recio (Black Jacket Symphony, the Artisnals, and Great Peacock) on drums. Credit: Andrea Belk “We have a lot of laughs and make fun music and it's good,” she says. After its initial album, “ One-Hit” , which was released in late 2020, Wanda Band signed this year with Single Lock Records out of Florence, Alabama, and has released a series of singles leading up to its release of the new album “Only Feeling.” Image Provided by Artist, Album Artwork by Gaby Wolodarski One of those singles, “Reggae Song”, was released in June as part of Pride Month. I want a woman to touch my thighs Who loves to sing and only smokes to get high I want a woman to scream my name She could be anybody, she just has to be gay In this song, Wanda is more explicit about her sexuality, although she says, “I guess a lot of my songs are about queer heartache and that experience and some of my frustrations with living down in the South and being a queer person. I think it's important for me as a woman, a queer artist, to be out and to show that there can be queer joy, there can be queer heartache, and just kind of giving a voice to those who feel the same way and maybe have experienced the same things.” She goes on to say with a laugh, “I definitely think that whether anybody wants it to be or not, all Wanda Band shows are a pride event .” Wanda says she’s been pleased with the reception of “Reggae Song” and the three other singles that have been released ahead of the full album. “I like the idea of giving everybody a little taste pretty relentlessly, like once a month, of our music,” she says. “And then we'll just give them all 12 (songs) for the full release and that will be fun. I'm really excited for everyone to hear the whole thing as a cohesive album.” As for the album, it was recorded with producer and musician Jay Burgess (The Pollies) at his studio in Greenhill, Alabama, which also happens to be the hometown of Jason Isbell . “Once it was done,” Wanda says, “Jay showed it to Ben (Tanner of Single Lock Records in nearby Florence) and Jay asked if Ben could put some stuff on it. So once Ben put all his keys on it, he was like, ‘I really want to pitch this to Single Lock and see if they want to put it out.’ So, they came to us and that was really special to me because it meant that they actually wanted to be involved with it. Using their resources has been extremely helpful and we're really thankful for their support in that way.” It probably doesn’t hurt that Wanda was a student of John Paul White ’s in the music department at the University of North Alabama. White, a noted singer/songwriter in his own right, is a co-owner along with Tanner and others of Single Lock Records. Wanda’s Shoals-area connections paid off in landing her a spot in the 2022 version of ShoalsFest, a musical weekend event brought to the area by Jason Isbell and his team. That was a dream come true,” Wanda says. “When I first moved to Florence, I worked ShoalsFest. I tore down the stage. I stood up on that stage and looked out and I was just like, ‘Now imagine yourself being here next year.’ So just being connected in the Shoals really has helped our career skyrocket in a way that it wouldn't have been able to just sitting in Huntsville.” In addition to the album release, another important date is looming for Wanda. She’s closing in on five years of sobriety. “I just was like ‘I guess if I'm an artist, I need to be troubled,’” she says about her early days of drinking. “As soon as I got out of high school, I just started drinking and smoking and doing a bunch of things I shouldn't be doing because I thought, ‘Oh, this is what it means to be young. This is what it means to be a brooding artist.’ And I took it a little too far and realized after about four years of regular heavy drinking that it wasn't helping me. It was kind of making me hate myself for not pursuing my dreams in the real meaningful way that I wanted to because I was so concerned with drinking and partying and being an artist in that way—and not really focusing on my art.” Credit: Tim W. Jackson She realized, “Some people can casually have a drink or two. I was not one of those people. It was like, as soon as I have a drink I'm blacking out. It was not good and not healthy. So, I finally made that decision (to choose sobriety) and started The Wanda Band like six months later and just really poured myself into my art and my music. In a way, maybe I traded one addiction for another— just being addicted to working on the band. But it was a healthy outlet for me, and it helped me pass the time and gave me a creative outlet that I didn't have when I was drinking all the time.” The focus on music has definitely paid off. The band has gotten more notoriety, and not just because of what has become their trademark coveralls. “I just got a pair of coveralls one day and thought, ‘Hey, I look pretty good.’ And then the boys were like, ‘I wanna wear some coveralls.’ So, our first album release show we got matching coveralls for the event, and we never looked back. We were just like, ‘I guess we're a coveralls band.’ “It's so funny,” she continues. “With the coveralls, I don't have to think about (what to wear). I'm just like, what color do I want to wear today? Sometimes I forget to tell the boys what color to wear and they'll show up to the gig with all of their coveralls in the back of their truck. I like that they're into it. They both work in construction, so it kind of just goes with their aesthetic.” Catch the “coveralls band” in a handful of album release shows in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, and give the album a listen on your streaming service of choice. And keep your eye on this rising star who stands as a testament to the profound impact of music when it emerges from the heart and soul of a genuine artist and storyteller. Wanda’s dedication to her craft and ability to connect with audiences will ensure her indelible mark on the world of music, reminding us all of the power of authentic expression. For more on Wanda Wesolowski and Wanda Band, visit her below at any of the following links: www.TheWandaBand.com Instagram @TheWandaBand Facebook @TheWandaBand YouTube @WandaBand Spotify @TheWandaBand *Cover photo by Andrea Belk Tim Jackson is a seasoned journalist and author with a penchant for all things dark, macabre, and somewhat sinister. He lives in Tuscumbia, Alabama, with his artist wife and their remote-chewing dog, Maple. 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

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

The BIG Reveal are Off the Charts < Back Unveiling The BIG Reveal: Alabama’s Rising Alternative Rock Band Bud Gambrell Apr 7, 2025 Share The BIG Reveal are Off the Charts 395 ! Three hundred ninety-five miles. That amounts to a car ride lasting around six hours. You are likely asking yourself why this is relevant. Well, I will tell you. I was contacted on Tuesday of last week by my editor and publisher, Nicole , regarding a band she wanted me to research called The BIG Reveal . Just a quick sidenote: Nicole is the one who makes it possible for me to write these articles. She has been so very supportive of me since we first met. If you get the chance, stop by the contact page and show her some love. Let her know you appreciate what she does. Now, back to business. I reached out to the band she suggested, The BIG Reveal , and was able to interact with their manager, Chad Parker , to get things rolling. We had a nice conversation, and he provided me with some background information. It was enough information for me to dig in and learn what I could before I interviewed them. One thing to note about The BIG Reveal is that this is a young band , which I truly enjoy learning more about the up-and-coming talent out there. They are the future of music , so we need to delve deeply into the music they are creating. The music industry has become a shell of its former self, and with so many avenues to discover music, when you think about it, there really isn’t one good avenue. It’s all so cluttered, and amongst the clutter stands The BIG Reveal . Photo provided by band The number 395 I mentioned above represents the number of miles it would have taken me to get in my car and drive to Grand Bay, Alabama , where The BIG Reveal originates. Since that was not possible on short notice, I relied on the interwebs to assist me. We live in the glorious days of technology. We have YouTube , which hosts a plethora of videos. (Mark one off the bucket list. I got to use plethora in a sentence.) YouTube is great because you can see the video of a band, not just an audio recording . We also have social media pages at our disposal. Like many bands, The BIG Reveal has music available on their website , which is a feature that a good number of bands these days don’t even have. Can you believe that? When you can visit one spot to see it all, it makes things easier when researching a band. Once I did my homework, it was time to call the band and have a conversation. Dive in below to learn more about The BIG Reveal . OTC : Hello guys! Thanks for taking my call. Introduce me to the band. Gavin Parker : I'm Gavin . I play guitar and sing. Blake Hall : I'm Blake . I play drums. Luke Puckett : I'm Luke . I play bass and sing harmonies. OTC : How long have you guys been together? Gavin : We've been together for about a year, but Luke just came in a couple of months ago to play bass for us. OTC : How did you guys meet? Gavin : I started the band with a couple of friends from school, and we were having fun. We got pretty good, but then it started getting serious. So, they backed out because they had other commitments at school, such as sports. Then Blake , the drummer , ended up living like five minutes away from me. Someone gave me their number, and I contacted them. After we met, he started playing drums for me, and then we met Luke online a couple of months ago. Click to visit The Big Reveal's website OTC : Can you tell me about your musical background and how you got started? Gavin : My entire family plays music. I grew up around it and just listened to the ' 90s pop-rock stuff. It has been my favorite since I was a little kid. Blake : I started playing drums about two years ago. I have always liked music a lot and always loved the drums! Luke : No one in my family is musical whatsoever. I decided I really wanted to about four years ago. I've always been classically trained on the piano . That started when I was about six or seven years old. I took lessons, and then I self-taught myself the bass about four years ago. OTC : Did the bass clef from your piano lessons carry over to the bass guitar? Luke : Yes, sir, it did. It helped me learn bass guitar quickly. OTC : While I was talking to your manager, he mentioned the Arts Block Party at UAB . Tell me about that. Gavin : Yeah, that was back in September 2024 . We entered a competition they had. It was like 150 something submissions . People got to vote on four bands that they wanted to play at the Block Party . Our fans showed up to vote for us! So, we ended up playing there! Jemison Hall at UAB was really cool! Photo provided by band OTC : So, the competition with The Arts Block was going to be in Birmingham , and you guys are in South Alabama. Your fans must have really stepped up for that. Gavin : Yeah, so that's when our TikTok page was starting to get a lot of traction. We made a couple of videos, and they all went and voted for us. OTC : Tell me a little bit about your fan base. They seem to be loyal. Gavin : Our TikTok site started picking up around June 2024 . We currently have approximately 37,000 on there. The local fan base is pretty devoted! They come to a lot of our shows! Our fan base is pretty cool for voting for us in multiple competitions that we've won. OTC : You also won a radio competition for WCPR . Tell me about that competition. Gavin : That was a competition to play at the Biloxi Crawfish Festival . 97.9 , CPR Rocks was running an ad explaining where you could submit your band’s music, and then people could vote for you to play. So, again, the same people, the same thing. People voted for us to win. I guess they like us! We will be opening for Puddle of Mudd , Hinder , Cowboy Mouth , and Marcy Playground at the Crawfish Music Festival on April 26th . Click to go to 97.9 WCPR's website OTC : You have a new album coming out. I'm assuming it's your first time in the studio. Could you describe the process of recording the new album? Gavin : We tracked everything at our home studio. One of the bands that we met in Birmingham at the Arts Block Party connected us with their mixing engineer in Knoxville . So, we tracked everything at home, and then we sent it to him, and he makes it sound good. OTC : Can you share with me a memorable experience while recording the new album? Gavin : I'm trying to get everything right and not being too much of a perfectionist. Just getting it how we want it because it's going to be there forever. It’s our first album, so we’re trying to make it as good as possible. Upcoming shows for The BIG Reveal OTC : Did you learn anything about yourself through your music during that recording process? Gavin : The thing I learned is that I'm more of a perfectionist than I thought I was. It took a while for me to accept some stuff. Blake : I learned that recording is a lot harder than it seems. I prefer the live shows to the recordings. It's just a long process. OTC : How would you describe the music that you created for the new album? Gavin : I'll say that it's real close to ’ 90s alternative rock , pop rock , post-grunge stuff. One of my favorite bands is Sister Hazel . You can hear their influence on this album. The ’90s pop-rock stuff is really what this album is influenced by. OTC : Blake, what would you say your influences are? Blake : My influences are bands like Foo Fighters , Nirvana and Led Zeppelin . They have influenced the way I play. OTC : What about you, Luke? Luke : Nirvana for me as well, and The Beatles . And then there were a lot of the 90s bands, like Green Day . However, I also really enjoy alternative rock , such as Goo Goo Dolls and The Killers . OTC : What are your long-term goals for the band, and what are you most excited about for the future of your music? Gavin : I think the goal has always been to do it until we can't anymore. Just keep doing it, having fun, and getting a larger and larger fan base. Luke : I think for me, it's definitely that I want a tour. I would love to go on a tour. The BIG Reveal album release show coming on April 11, 2025 OTC : What role does your social media play in the way you're focusing your career? Gavin : Our social media got us some attention from a couple of major independent labels that we are keeping in contact with. It has really helped us out a lot. TikTok has been strong for us. We are able to record live videos of what we are doing. It’s a way to put yourself out there and let people know what you are doing. OTC : What's the most unusual fan interaction that you've had so far? Gavin : We had this guy at our very first show. He had a little too much to drink, and he ended up coming up and almost getting up on stage. He was pointing the finger at me and singing the wrong words. But he was having fun. Blake : They always want me to sign broken drumsticks. I hit hard during shows! OTC : You are a new band. Do you have a favorite venue that you’ve played at so far? Gavin : Bozos in Pascagoula. We're having our album release party there. People always show up there, and we always have a great time. We played at The Soul Kitchen in Mobile for 92.1 the ZEW 's Christmas show, which was pretty cool. OTC : I have one more question. I'm going to ask all three of you with this one to see what y'all come up with. If your band had a superpower, what would it be and why? Gavin : I would fly so that I could fly around. Fly around the shows and I could surf on my guitar—air surf, you know, with a wireless setup. OTC : Like the Silver Surfer ? Gavin : Yeah, that would be pretty cool. OTC : What about you, Luke? Luke : My mind is a little bit more practical. Just to be able to play everything and not mess up, and just be impervious to making mistakes. OTC : Blake, what do you got? If your band had a superpower, what would it be and why? Blake : Probably not to run out of energy. Three-hour shows can really take a toll on you! OTC : Any final thoughts for your fans, old and new? Gavin : Our debut album is set to release on April 11th on Spotify , TikTok , and across all our social media platforms. At an early stage in their musical journey, this group of young men already has a loyal following. The one thing missing from their fan base is you. Get on board! One thing I haven’t mentioned before is the band's age. I wanted this article to be based on their music, rather than having any preconceived notions about their youth. Gavin is only 16. Luke is 18 and Blake is 17. This is a promising young band, and they are only going to get better. 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 The Big Reveal: Website: The BIG Reveal Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557900071233 ‎ Apple Music: The BIG Reveal - Apple Music Spotify: The BIG Reveal | Spotify TikTok www.tiktok.com/@_thebigreveal *photos provided by the band 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

Shawn Franklin redefines the music production landscape with his top-notch restorations and collaborations. < Back Shawn Franklin: Music Producer Extraordinaire Nicole Brice Oct 2, 2023 Share Shawn Franklin redefines the music production landscape with his top-notch restorations and collaborations. Often in music entertainment, we heavily focus on those in the foreground— the artists and musicians —but we don’t focus on the talent behind the scenes delicately tweaking and fine-tuning songs and albums, making sure everything is perfect. In the dynamic world of music production, some individuals stand out because of their sheer talent, versatility, and ability to add a distinct touch to all they lay their eyes, ears, and hands on. Shawn Franklin is one of those people who stand out in the music production crowd. With artistry that spans many mediums, Shawn has solidified his place among the production elite with various projects spanning well over a decade. With over 23 years of experience in sound engineering and performing with his band, The Scallions, Shawn’s true specialty is audio restoration and re-mastering new and classic material. Photo provided by artist Franklin has worked on music for Anthrax , Stone Deep , Public Enemy , Chuck D , Chuck Mosley , Daddy O , Dirty Rotten Imbeciles , Prophets of Rage , Renaldo & the Loaf , The Residents , The Mentors , and many others. What started as pure love and enthusiasm for the music that inspired him as a kid became an innate understanding of the intricacies of music, allowing him to turn a lifelong dream into a reality, and he currently shows no signs of slowing down. Shawn Franklin has an uncanny ability to focus on sounds to determine how and where they need to be tweaked for a crisp, clean restoration. Born and raised in a musically inclined family, Shawn developed an affinity for music at a young age, eventually learning to play the drums. “My brother is four years older than me … and he played guitar. I wanted to play the drums, and before I got a drum kit, I would play on coffee cans. I’d play with pencils as my sticks and then for cymbals, I’d have the coffee cans upside down for the tin part. I would fill the center part with pennies for the snare,” he recalls. A young Shawn Franklin - photo provided by artist His upbringing laid the foundation for his future success, as he immersed himself in a vast range of musical styles from metal to hip-hop and everywhere in between. After discovering Kiss’ album Hotter than Hell , Franklin’s passion for music grew exponentially, and during his teenage years, he was led to explore the makings of what goes into a spectacular recording. “My brother heard ‘Calling Dr. Love’ from Kiss on the radio in ’76 … I think I was four years old … and then I heard it and we both loved the song. We got the 45 and had no clue what they looked like or anything like that. Just hearing that song and loving that song and then discovering everything they did image-wise, … I mean, that was just like icing on the cake.” As Shawn’s music tastes began to expand, so did his record collection, and once he discovered the band The Residents , he was hooked. The Residents would play a huge part in Shawn’s life later, so this discovery was fortuitous. With many other bands and musicians influencing him, such as The Beach Boys , Jefferson Starship , and The Beatles , Franklin was eventually led into the world of hip-hop when he discovered breakdancing . Shawn Franklin getting an autograph from Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys - circa 1998 - photo provided by artist “It was the summer of 1984,” says Shawn, “my friend started [dancing] doing the worm one day, and I had no clue what it was. I rented Breakin’ and I thought the movie was horrible but cool because it got me into the music. It had this street element … this energy.” Franklin’s love for hip-hop would continue to grow, and over the years, he would go on to discover many influential artists from the time, such as Kurtis Blow , Boogie Down Productions , The Beastie Boys , Public Enemy , and KRS-One . “I heard ‘ South Bronx ’ by Boogie Down Productions in 1986 and I had never heard anything like it. The little horn stabs and everything just blew my mind.” Franklin’s career with music would soon take a dramatic turn—one that would start to shape his destiny. In 1990 , Shawn and his brother Mike began making music as The Scallions . Described as “ Avant-Garde Power Pop ” and influenced by San Francisco cult giants The Residents , Mike and Shawn started shaping their sound. Mike and Shawn Franklin aka The Scallions - photo provided by artist In 1999 , the band began shopping material around when they hooked up with Tom Timony , a former owner of The Residents label, Ralph Records . In the year 2000, they put out their first commercially released album, Mud Pie , and following its release the album was promoted with interviews, reviews, and radio play. In 2001 , Tom’s label closed and left Shawn and Mike looking for a new home for their music. It was around this time Franklin reached out to Chuck D from Public Enemy via e-mail after obtaining his e-mail address on an online message board. After e-mailing him, Shawn met him in person at a lecture held on the campus of Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn. where Chuck acknowledged he had received the copy of ' Gladys ' that Shawn had sent over. "He listened to the song and really liked it and that was it.” The Scallions In 2002 , the band signed with Chuck D’s label, SLAMjamz , and was asked to open for a few shows with Public Enemy in Massachusetts. “He told me, ‘You guys are different’, and that was that.” The year 2006 saw The Scallions release their album Agony Through Ceremony as part of a CD/DVD combo on Chuck D’s label. From there, Shawn Franklin and Chuck D would spark a professional friendship that led to various other projects outside of his band that continues to this day, with Franklin currently producing daily segments for Chuck D’s RAPstation radio network called “ This Day in Hip Hop History ”. Chuck D and Shawn Franklin - photo provided by artist One of the significant factors that sets Shawn Franklin apart is his remarkable versatility and after discovering he had a knack for restoring audio in a complex way , he began to experiment and push creative boundaries resulting in captivating and refreshing sounds. Of his early remastering days, Franklin says, “In the early 2000’s, I had been collecting bootlegs forever, and I was always zoning in on certain aspects of the recordings: ‘This one has got a lot of noise,’ and ‘This one could use a tweak here,’ and I remember thinking, ‘I wish I could clean this stuff up and restore these.’ The technology was not there yet, but I had a friend turn me on to some software that was incredible for the time. It was like a nuclear bomb went off over my head.” After discovering his secret weapon software, which he did not disclose the name of because it is his secret weapon, Shawn was able to start playing with audio. “I really started cutting my teeth, fixing these bootlegs,” Franklin said. “I really got into it … but I didn’t have any ambitions to be doing audio professionally.” Those first moments of tweaking audio for bootlegs began to set the stage for what was to come. “So, I became friends with Renaldo from Renaldo and the Loaf, and so, as the story progresses … around 2014, Brian, who is Renaldo, was taking a trip out to the United States where he had plans to stay at my house. There was this album, ‘Title in Limbo’ by The Residents, in collaboration with Renaldo and the Loaf. When the album was released on CD, some of the songs faded in, and it was horrible. Prior to Brian coming here, I was telling him about it, and he was like, ‘I have a mix down.’ He’s like, ‘Maybe you can fix it up and restore this album.’ So, I did and matched everything up EQ-wise and he flipped out over it.” That project then led to Shawn doing restoration professionally because the restored album was released worldwide. Title in Limbo by The Residents and Renaldo & The Loaf “Public Enemy is one of my favorite rap bands worldwide. Two friends and I, who coincidentally worked for Chuck, had this idea of making a comprehensive cohesive product of every single A side and B side from all their seven-inch, 12-inch, and CD singles. So, we did this whole thing and we presented it to the Public Enemy squad in 2014. Chuck, at this point, was like, ‘You know, you guys really should start a production team,’ and we were all like, ‘Hmmm … let’s do it. Let’s do this professionally.’” They decided to call their production team TDX , which stands for The Definitive Xperience. “We had all these plans of doing all kinds of reissues from bands,” says Franklin . From there, Shawn and his team embarked on a whirlwind career of numerous opportunities. Shawn Franklin’s reputation for excellence and his exceptional skills have attracted some of the most prominent names in the music industry and his collaborative works have earned him the trust and respect of many established artists such as thrash metal pioneers Anthrax . “I had the idea to reach out to Charlie from Anthrax since Public Enemy had collaborated with them,” Franklin explains. “I ended up sending Charlie [Benante] a tweet because I wasn’t friends with him. I told him, ‘Hey, listen. I’ve been a huge fan of Anthrax since ’86 and I did a really fat remaster of Spreading the Disease . I really want you to hear it and I work for Chuck D.’ He got back to me and said he would love to hear it, so I sent him what I did, and he loved it.” From there, Franklin spoke on the phone with Charlie , developing a professional friendship that led to numerous collaborations. Shawn Franklin with Charlie Benante from Anthrax - photo provided by artist “He said, ‘I’m going to send you some songs that I love and I’m not going to tell you what I don’t like about them audio-wise, and I want to see what you would do.’ I’m thinking, ‘Well, I’m just gonna trust my ears and see what I come up with.’ So, I did that and sent him samples of before and after. I didn’t hear anything for a while until one day, I was playing drums and my phone started blowing up. I look down at my phone to see Charlie messaging me and telling me that I ‘killed it.’” After successfully re-mastering those first few tracks, Shawn Franklin was sent more material that eventually led to him editing, assembling, and sequencing the Spreading the Disease 30th Anniversary album and the State of Euphoria deluxe album for Universal/Megaforce Records . Those projects then led to numerous other projects and collaborations with Anthrax and the professional relationship continues to this day. Remastered by Shawn Franklin Beyond his individual accomplishments, Shawn Franklin has had a transformative impact on the music production landscape by recognizing the importance of embracing technological advancements and utilizing innovative techniques to shape and enhance the soundscape of his creative projects. When asked about some of his other projects outside of Public Enemy and Anthrax, he said, “Working with Chuck Mosley from Faith No More, God rest his soul, was just incredible. I think that me being a fan of the music helps in my situation because knowing the catalog and the work makes it more personal.” He goes on to say, “It’s like saying, ‘Hey, this guy loves our stuff but can also deliver the goods audio-wise,’ you know?” In 2016 , Franklin was asked to master three songs for DJ Lord for the 2016 Make America Rage Again tour and says of the experience, “Chuck had an assistant named Kate. She came to me one day and said, ‘DJ Lord needs three songs mastered … instrumental versions.’ So, I didn’t even think anything of it and told them, ‘Let’s go!’” Credit: Green Left From there, Shawn went on to do the tracks with no problems and recalled the moment he got to experience his work firsthand live. “I’m at Mohegan Sun Arena watching the Prophets of Rage show and it’s going along, and ‘Bring the Noise’ starts when it dawns on me that this was what I had mastered for them. I look around the arena and it’s sold out. It’s packed. I’m watching people lose their minds to the music and I’m thinking, ‘I worked on this.’” As the music industry continues to evolve, Shawn Franklin remains relentless in his pursuit of excellence. While continuing to collaborate with renowned artists, Franklin strives to inspire others to follow their dreams and explore their creative potential. His journey from humble beginnings to working for Chuck D is a testament to his unwavering passion, exceptional talent, and commitment to musical quality. Through his versatility and groundbreaking production style, Franklin has redefined the music production landscape and left an indelible mark on the industry. As the music world eagerly awaits his next move, there is no doubt that Shawn Franklin’s influence will continue to shape the future of music production for years to come. To learn more about Shawn and his work, visit one of the sites below: Website: TDX: The Definitive Xperience (defexperience.com) The Scallions: The Scallions | blocGLOBAL Independent Record Label | Buy, download and listen to music online (blocsonic.com) Facebook (The Scallions): The Scallions (facebook.com) Rapstation Radio: Rapstation - Home www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Coming Soon! < Back Off the Charts Bud Gambrell Mar 17, 2023 Share Coming Soon! Hello to all! I hope you are here and curious about what Off The Charts is. Well, I’m going to attempt to explain what our goals here are. I am glad you’re here! My name is Bud Gambrell and I live in North Alabama. I am a published writer in several magazines and I have written a book, too. I also am a photographer who shoots mainly concerts big and small. In this maiden voyage of Off The Charts , I will attempt to lay out what you can expect from this column. What you will read here will be about bands that you may never have heard of from Alabama and the surrounding areas. That’s the point of the title. Off The Charts. The title embodies my goal. The bands included here are not on the charts, yet. I will be attempting to expose lesser-known acts with the hopes of you discovering new music that you enjoy. The articles that will periodically be posted here may include a concert review with pictures. Pictures are my favorite! The articles may also include interviews with any artists who are willing to sit down and have a talk. I may even branch out and attempt to get news out about new releases including singles and albums. Yes, I’m old school. I still call them albums. Listening to a new streaming release will be a good way to discover exactly what you are looking for. When I was first approached about starting this column, the intent was to focus on Outlaw Country. I thought, what a great idea! Then, as I thought more about it, I felt that there is so much more good music out there that deserves exposure. The genres that you can expect to read about will include Outlaw Country as well as good old Rock ‘N Roll. You will read about Southern Rock which is one of my favorites, too. We may even dive into some Blues. The point is to expose those hard-working men and women out there hustling to keep us entertained. One thing that you will not see here is critique. I am not a critic, so I’ll spare you reading about me pretending to be. I’m not here to criticize any musician. I’m here to help expose them and the wonderful work that they do. I’m a music lover. I’m a live music lover. Anyway, it almost seems that you would have to dislike music a little bit to sit back and pick someone’s art apart. Or you feel like you’re better at it than they are. Right? Another thing that you will not see here is major national recording bands. I would have to come up with another name. Remember, we are Off The Charts here. We don’t want to write about those bands. What could I say that hasn’t already been said and that you’ve read elsewhere? So, this section will inform you of your role in this column. Send me an email and tell me the bands that you love that may be lesser known. Maybe your favorite local band is releasing a new album soon. Tell me about it, so I can tell others. Maybe you are a musician that wants to spread the word about yourself or your band. You know the next line. Send me an email. We may even arrange an interview. When you stop by, grab yourself a cold beer. Grab that glass of wine. Grab whatever you indulge in to medicate your mind. Hopefully, I will turn you on to some new tunes that you can kick back and listen to and enjoy. Come happy and leave happier. Besides, we are all friends here. See you next time! Bud Bud Gambrell Photography ( bgambrellphotography.com ) Facebook To purchase my book, "Side Tracks Music Hall": https://a.co/d/a6lGy0O Questions or comments? E-mail me at the_budgambrell@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Cutting straight into the bone of the Saw franchise, John Kramer confesses his own despair and exposes himself as a radical nihilist. < Back The Philosophy of John Kramer and the Saw Franchise, Part 4: Film Analysis Ezekiel Kincaid Oct 31, 2023 Share Cutting straight into the bone of the Saw franchise, John Kramer confesses his own despair and exposes himself as a radical nihilist. We’re back, folks, with our fourth and final lesson in John Kramer’s philosophical nihilism. I hope you’ve enjoyed the journey, and I hope it has at least made you think, along with challenging your perception of the Saw franchise. For today’s blue-collar philosophy lesson, we are going to look at radical nihilism and how John Kramer (Tobin Bell, of Finders Keepers ) fits that rubric. Let’s go ahead and jump in, shall we? Radical nihilism can be summed up as a “destructive” philosophy. What I mean by that is this: A radical nihilist usually has no loyalties, believes in nothing, and sees their purpose as to destroy. This is because they have a dissatisfaction that comes from their recognition that they live in a world where their ideal values will never exist. The “world as it is” is the greatest hindrance to the radical nihilist, so much so that they seek to negate and destroy its inherent moral, religious, and political values so their own can flourish. Now, let’s apply this paradigm to John Kramer in the Saw franchise. Can his ideal of “appreciating life” exist in the world as it is? Another pertinent question we need to raise concerns Jigsaw’s aim: Is it really to change others or to change the world by destroying others? Because, as a radical nihilist, the only way to bring change is through destroying what is. I am going to argue that John Kramer’s goal is not to incite true change in others, but to annihilate others, thus changing the world as is . A good example of this is Amanda (Shawnee Smith, of Anger Management ). She is proof positive that Jigsaw cannot change people’s value system. For those of you unfamiliar with the franchise, Amanda is Kramer’s first survivor. She becomes the case study and poster girl for Jigsaw that his therapy “works.” However, as the story unfolds throughout the Saw franchise, it becomes abundantly clear she is not “cured.” Amanda with Jigsaw, courtesy of Lionsgate Kramer then takes it upon himself to retest Amanda. The fact he has to do this proves his methods of rehabilitation are sorely inadequate. Amanda herself even agrees with this failure and says, “Nobody is reborn.” This all takes place in Saw III (2006) and, moments later, is followed up by Jeff’s willingness to kill Jigsaw. Speaking of Jeff (Angus Macfadyen, of Equilibrium ), let’s look at him for a moment, and then we’ll jump back to the scene mentioned above. In Saw III , Kramer asks Jeff to view Danica (Debra McCabe, of People of Earth ) and Timothy (Mpho Koaho, of Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency ) as people who made mistakes rather than people who contributed to the death of his son. Jeff ends up failing to obtain this outlook and failing to rescue them from their traps. But not to worry, Kramer, our scholar on humanity, has factored in Jeff’s failure for the overarching game. Danica herself exposes the test’s very premise when she says, “I made a mistake … I’m human.” Jeff, too, is only human, and he will make mistakes leading to the death of others, which he does. Jeff then becomes a synecdoche for everyone involved in the game , including Jigsaw and Amanda. But it goes deeper. Jeff serves a larger purpose. He isn’t Kramer’s test subject, all of humanity is. There was never any chance Jeff’s values or perspective would change. He, like Kramer and everyone else, is flawed by belonging to the world as it is. Let’s jump back to the scene in Saw III with Jeff, Kramer, and Amanda, where Jeff is wanting to kill Kramer. In coming face-to-face with the inadequacy of his own methods, and Jeff’s desire to kill him, Jigsaw asks Jeff, “You haven’t learned anything tonight, have you?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asjTYMUwYTc Like Amanda, Jeff is being retested. And, like Amanda, Jigsaw cannot change his values. The list goes on as we examine other movies in the Saw franchise. Art (Louis Ferreira, of Stargate Universe ) survives his mausoleum trap. Does he learn anything? Has he changed? Nope. In Saw IV (2007), he becomes the head of another game where he dies. In Saw II (2005), Eric (Donnie Wahlberg, of Blue Bloods ) fails his test but not all is lost. He proves his willingness to survive and live by escaping. This should be it for Eric, shouldn't it? But it’s not. He then becomes bait in the same trap that ends up killing Art. All in all, Amanda ends up being right when she states in Saw III , “Nobody changes.” But what about Kramer, the very one who has instituted this form of rehabilitation? A big NO on that as well. Those of you who have seen the movies, recall with me, if you will, John Kramer’s statement from Saw II where he says he is “unfixable.” And there we have it, folks, right in front of our faces. Kramer’s own words scream at us the radical nihilist’s confession of despair. No one is fixable, so the entire damn system needs to burn. Jigsaw is sick and tired of it all. He is tired of the current world-as-it-is value system. He is sick of people not appreciating their lives because of this system. But people can’t change, not even with his method; therefore, it must all be destroyed. Let’s go back to the original Saw (2004) for a moment. There’s a scene in there where Detective Tapp (Danny Glover, of Lethal Weapon ) says to Kramer he is “sick” but he’s not referring to his cancer. Kramer’s response is telling. He states he is “sick of those who don’t appreciate their life” and he is “sick of those who scoff at the suffering of others.” And then comes the ultimate culmination and confession of Jigsaw: He says he is “sick of it all.” To put that in nihilistic terms, he is sick of the world and the current state of existence. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk_PzaM41xc What about Kramer’s cancer? His physical illness? Does it play a part in this? Oh, absolutely. Jigsaw’s destructive nature displayed in his games is intricately tied to his terminal illness. Thus, the only true change Jigsaw institutes in any of his traps is devastation. The games he subjects people to are not capable of changing anyone’s values. Kramer’s aim is much more simplistic: to destroy the world as is. In closing, I want to examine one more phrase from Kramer that highlights his radical nihilism, and it is probably one of the most important phrases in the franchise. In Saw IV , Kramer states, “If the subject survives my method, he or she is instantly rehabilitated.” Yet, as we have seen above, this is far from the truth. As a radical nihilist, Jigsaw’s values remain intact despite evidence to the contrary, and despite the impossibility of those ideals ever becoming a reality in the world as is. This also answers the question as to why, even if people survive, Jigsaw just puts them in another game to die anyway. It is because destruction is the chief end—the obliteration of the world-as-it-is value system. There is much more to unpack when it comes to the philosophy of John Kramer—so much more, in fact, that even passive and radical nihilism fail to cover it. This means while Kramer fits these paradigms, there are also aspects of him that do not. Those points are beyond the scope of these articles. However, seeing much of Kramer through the lens of passive and radical nihilism does shed light on his madness and gives us a background to understand some of the seeming contradictions that are evident throughout the movies. Before I end, I want to sum up a few things. First, radical nihilism embraces the impossibility of change. Second, when we examine passive and radical nihilism, especially in John Kramer, we see the two are intertwined. Nihilists like Kramer rely on their view of the world as it is being the non-ideal of existence. This is the only way they can understand existence. There is a deep conflict between the world-as-it-is view and the world-as-it-ought-to-be view. Jigsaw’s world view is one where he gives into destruction in order to institute change. He has wholeheartedly given himself over to the belief that people are predictable. Thus, he allows them to be human, to keep their current value system and ultimately doom themselves. There is a deep irony existing inside John Kramer. With all of his destructive games, he still relies on the world existing as it is while also being the source of his own dissatisfaction in life. Because Kramer will never fulfill his goal of total destruction, as a nihilist, his own life will have no purpose either. credit: Lionsgate Entertainment And there you have it, my friends. I hope you’ve enjoyed this little discourse into the Saw franchise, and I plan on bringing you more thought-provoking pieces in the future. Until then, stay tuned for more fantastic upcoming B-movie reviews in my current series What the Hell Did I Just Watch . Catch y’all on the flip flop. Happy Halloween, my friends. Now go watch some Saw movies! 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

Newest movies to hit streaming platforms this month range from Killers of the Flower Moon to Rebel Moon – Part 1: A Child of Fire. < Back Movies Streaming in December 2023 Keeley Brooks Dec 8, 2023 Share Newest movies to hit streaming platforms this month range from Killers of the Flower Moon to Rebel Moon – Part 1: A Child of Fire. Along with a slew of holiday-centric movies, December sees a hefty amount of new and theatrical titles hitting some of your favorite streaming platforms, too. From the release of Killers of the Flower Moon and Barbie to newly released and long-anticipated titles like Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon -- Part 1: A Child of Fire and disaster flick Leave the World Behind , there’s plenty to choose from this month that’s sure to keep you entertained. Check out our list of select titles! Leave the World Behind (Dec. 8 on Netflix) Who doesn’t love a good disaster movie?! I know I do. Leave the World Behind is based on the 2020 novel of the same name by Rumaan Alam and marks the first fictional movie from Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company. The film stars Julia Roberts ( The Mexican ) and Ethan Hawke ( The Black Phone ) as a couple vacationing in Long Island when a world-threatening disaster takes place. Mahershala Ali ( Green Book ) plays the owner of the home the couple is renting, and when he shows up seeking refuge with his daughter, the two families are forced to trust each other as the world collapses. Leave the World Behind is rumored to be one intriguing use-your-imagination thriller. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMVBi_e8o-Y Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (now available on Disney+) I’ll start by saying this movie is ridiculously long, so if you plan to watch it—especially with any kiddos, be prepared. Harrison Ford is back as the titular character for his final outing and fifth (unnecessary) installment of the long-running adventure franchise that is Indiana Jones . As Jones searches for a mystical artifact that has the power to turn back time, he teams up with his goddaughter to track down the device. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQfMbSe7F2g May December (now available on Netflix) Starring Natalie Portman ( Black Swan ) and Julianne Moore ( The Big Lebowski ), May December is loosely based on the real-life relationship between former middle school teacher Mary Kay Letourneau and her student Vili Fualaau. The film follows a married couple who, 20 years after their notorious tabloid romance, buckle under the pressure when a Hollywood actress (Portman) meets them to do research for a film about their past. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VdAParM4h8 Killers of the Flower Moon (now available on Apple TV+) Based on journalist David Grann’s 2017 bestseller of the same name, Killers of the Flower Moon recounts the true story of how a white businessman and self-proclaimed “true friend” of the Osage nation orchestrated the brutal murders of numerous members of the tribe in early 1920’s Oklahoma. Real love crosses paths with unspeakable betrayal when Mollie Burkhart, an Osage Nation member, tries to save her community from this spree of murders fueled by oil and greed. Killers of the Flower Moon is reported to be Leonardo DiCaprio’s best performance of his entire career. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EP34Yoxs3FQ Candy Cane Lane (now available on Prime Video) He’s no Clark Griswold, but Eddie Murphy ( The Nutty Professor ) is a father determined to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas home decoration contest. When he unintentionally strikes a deal with an elf (Jillian Bell, of 22 Jump Street ) to improve his odds of winning, chaos ensues as the elf casts a spell that brings to life the 12 Days of Christmas. Candy Cane Lane also stars Chris Redd ( Kenan ) and Nick Offerman ( Parks and Recreation ). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9d2G3l3UO4 Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie (Dec. 8 on Peacock) Tony Shalhoub reprises his Emmy-winning role in the long-awaited Monk movie. Set in a post-COVID world, the flick follows Shalhoub’s consulting detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder and a wide range of phobias as he takes on a very personal case involving his beloved stepdaughter Molly, a journalist preparing for her wedding. Several original series stars are set to reprise their roles alongside Shalhoub, so Monk fans, your party returns. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Krfd3OWb4hs The Family Plan (Dec. 15 on Apple TV+) Mark Wahlberg ( Entourage ) is back in an action-comedy role, this time as a former elite government assassin living incognito as a suburban dad. Starring opposite Michelle Monaghan ( Gone Baby Gone ), the family-friendly flick follows Dan Morgan (Wahlberg) as he packs up his wife, teenaged son and daughter, and 10-month-old baby and flees from past enemies who’ve tracked him down. This unsuspecting family takes an unforgettable cross-country road trip to Vegas, baby. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ns8weNznn1Y The Retirement Plan (Dec. 15 on Hulu) Nicolas Cage ( An Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent ) stars as a retired government assassin with a violent set of skills who must protect his estranged daughter and grandchild after they get tangled up with some very bad men—one of whom is Ron Perlman ( Hellboy ). I’ve seen this flick, and it’s a cute movie. You’ll melt over the relationship Cage’s on-screen granddaughter strikes with Perlman’s character. For more details, read this full review of The Retirement Plan . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gKcc-kp0kg Finestkind (Dec. 15 on Paramount+) Finestkind is a crime-thriller drama that tells the story of two half-brothers raised in different worlds, who are reunited as adults over one fateful summer. Set against the backdrop of commercial fishing, desperate circumstances force the brothers to become involved with the Boston crime syndicate, which ends up becoming their biggest threat, especially when a woman’s betrayal is woven in there. The film reveals itself to be a story about fathers who can’t always be the best examples for their sons, and about the fact that a safe return home isn’t always guaranteed. Finestkind stars Tommy Lee Jones ( The Burial ), Ben Foster ( Hell or High Water ), Jenna Ortega ( Wednesday ), and Jake Gyllenhaal ( Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant ) and features big boats, drug running, crime, and drama. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8aPzwMl37g Gran Tourismo (Dec. 15 on Netflix) Gran Tourismo is about a team of unlikely underdogs who risk it all to take on the most elite sport in the world: racecar driving. Based on the racing simulation video game series of the same name, it tells the true story of Jann Mardenborough, a teenage Gran Tourismo player who became a professional racecar driver. Stars David Harbour ( Violent Night ), Orlando Bloom ( Lord of the Rings trilogy), Djimon Hounsou ( Black Adam ), Archie Madekwe ( See ), Takehiro Hira ( Monarch: Legacy of Monsters ), and Darren Barnet ( Never Have I Ever ). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVPzGBvPrzw Barbie (Dec. 15 on Max) If you’ve been waiting to see Barbie and Ken in all their live-action glory, your wait is over. The hit musical will soon be available to stream for free … with a Max membership, of course. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBk4NYhWNMM Maestro (Dec. 20 on Netflix) Bradley Cooper ( A Star is Born ) is American composer Leonard Bernstein in this biographical drama that focuses on his relationship with Costa Rican actress-turned-wife Felicia Montealegre. Cooper, who also directs the film, spent a reported six years learning how to conduct an orchestra. It’s a lot harder and more involved than it looks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJP2QblqLA0 Beau Is Afraid (Dec. 21 on Paramount+) It’s a big year for Joaquin Phoenix ( Joker ), and if you’ve been waiting for Beau Is Afraid to hit a streaming platform, you’re in luck. Phoenix stars as an anxiety-ridden loner who sets out on a bizarre odyssey home to see his mother. While the Ari Aster ( Hereditary ) flick may confuse those with huge expectations, know that the film is supposed to be a polarizing movie, so view it with an open mind and just be there for the experience … and Phoenix’s performance, which—let’s be honest—is the only real reason any of us see movies with him in the lead role. Or is that just me? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuiWDn976Ek Rebel Moon – Part 1: A Child of Fire (Dec. 22 on Netflix) Finally, famed director Zack Snyder’s long-awaited franchise arrives this month. Hitting Netflix right before Christmas, this mega-budget sci-fi action flick is inspired by the works of Akira Kurosawa , the Star Wars films, and Heavy Metal magazines and will no doubt feature Snyder’s well-known slow-motion effects. When a colony on the edge of the galaxy finds itself threatened by the armies of the tyrannical Regent Balisarius, they dispatch a young woman with a mysterious past to seek out warriors from neighboring planets to help them take a stand. The franchise boasts big names like Charlie Hunnam ( Sons of Anarchy ), Michiel Huisman ( The Haunting of Hill House ), Djimon Hounsou ( Black Adam ), Sofia Boutella ( Kingsman: The Secret Service ), and Ray Fisher ( Zack Snyder’s Justice League ). Rebel Moon – Part 2 will release on Netflix in April 2024. Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for entertainment consumption and an uncontrollable urge to write about everything she watches, even if it sucks. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

Finally getting the treatment it deserves in a gorgeous new edition from Criterion Collection < Back Chilly Scenes of Winter: The Cult Classic Returns from Obscurity Shaun Corley Jul 27, 2023 Share Finally getting the treatment it deserves in a gorgeous new edition from Criterion Collection Chilly Scenes of Winter , directed by Joan Micklin Silver , is a romantic comedy—of sorts. On the surface, it has all the trappings of a rom-com: Man meets woman and quickly falls in love with her; the woman does not return the affections, leading the man to try and win her over. This plot has been done to death in movies, but Chilly Scenes of Winter elevates itself above the crowd by subverting tropes every step of the way. Hard to come by, the film has been released in a gorgeous new edition from the esteemed Criterion Collection. Chilly Scenes of Winter , based on the Ann Beattie novel of the same name, focuses on love, marriage, and 1970’s lifestyles. The film had a somewhat checkered production history. As recounted on one of the disc’s splendid special features, producers and actors Mark Metcalf ( National Lampoon’s Animal House ), Amy Robinson ( Julie & Julia ), and Griffin Dunne ( This Is Us ) purchased the film rights to the novel. Micklin, who had read the novel and heard the trio had procured the film rights, asked to direct, and they said yes. Released initially through United Artists in 1979 under the less-than-creative title Head Over Heels , the film was a commercial flop. Part of this can be attributed to United Artist’s indifference to the film, as well as meddling from studio executives. United Artists also were not sure how to market the film, running an ad campaign that portrayed it as a zany romance story—and it is anything but. However, in 1982, United Artists—through their new United Artists Classics line—decided to give Chilly Scenes of Winter another try. The film’s original producers, as well as Micklin, were given the chance to make the movie they wanted but were unable to in 1979, and all they had to do was cut the original ending. This new version of the movie was much more successful with critics and has become a cult film. Boutique label Twilight Time released a Blu-ray edition in 2017, which is now out of print; the film has never streamed on any major services either. Thankfully, the Criterion Collection has come to the rescue, saving Chilly Scenes of Winter from obscurity by giving it the loving treatment it deserves. On the back of the package, Criterion calls Chilly Scenes of Winter an “anti-romantic comedy,” and that is an apt description. Charles (John Heard, of Big and Home Alone ), is a civil servant living in Salt Lake City. He meets Laura (Mary Beth Hurt, of Lady in the Water ) while at work and becomes smitten with her, as she is temporarily separated from her husband. Over the next few weeks, Charles and Laura develop a relationship that comes to an end when Laura decides to return to her husband Ox, played by producer Mark Metcalf. Charles cannot accept the relationship is over, or that it was even much to start with, and becomes obsessed with her to a point modern audiences may find a little uneasy to accept. It is a testament to Heard’s acting that viewers can still find a shred of sympathy for Charles, even when he is clearly in the wrong. Part of Chilly Scenes of Winter ’s appeal is that practically everyone has been in a situation where they were in love with someone who did not reciprocate. Charles is in love with Laura; Laura, on the other hand, is still uncertain about her place in the world after leaving her husband. Laura is confused, as is Charles—he cannot see their relationship is doomed from the start. Mary Beth Hurt plays Laura perfectly and viewers can see, even in their most loving and passionate moments, a spark of uncertainty about her, as if she is not 100 percent into this relationship. The film’s original ending skewed this ambiguity, opting for something more palatable to mainstream audiences. When Chilly Scenes of Winter was re-released in 1982, the original ending was cut, giving the film a still somehow more satisfying conclusion. Criterion has included the original ending as part of its supplementary features, allowing viewers to make up their own minds on which one is better. Other supplements on the disc include new interviews with Chilly Scenes of Winter ’s production team, as well as a 2005 interview with Mecklin. The two features complement each other well and are a joy to watch, as the creative teams behind the movie share their tragedies and triumphs working on it. The film was clearly a labor of love on the part of everyone in front and behind the camera, and it shows both in the finished product and the disc’s supplemental features. Forty-four years after its first release, Chilly Scenes of Winter continues to resonate with audiences. Its themes are universal, and they continually topple tropes of the romantic comedy genre. Its DNA can be found in movies such as High Fidelity, Her , and many other subversive romantic comedies. Long hard to find, the Criterion Collection has brought it back into print in an amazing new edition, which you can find here . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6wjmt0vWsQ 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 lingering 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

Blow Up My Life is a cinematic unicorn in the thriller-comedy genre with undeniable humor and thrills with a capital T. < Back Blow Up My Life: Film Review Keeley Brooks Nov 20, 2023 Share Blow Up My Life is a cinematic unicorn in the thriller-comedy genre with undeniable humor and thrills with a capital T. I enjoy watching corporate conspiracies play out on screen, especially when they involve Big Pharma. Recent adaptations have kept the tone heavily dramatic and serious for obvious reasons. There’s no room for thrills or comedy—why would there be? And if there was room, what would that look like? Would it even be successful? In short, yes. Blow Up My Life is 2023’s cinematic thriller-comedy unicorn , featuring healthily balanced moments of humor laced with non-stop thrills … and I mean Thrills. Blow Up My Life is a dark comedy about a disillusioned man wrestling with his morality on doing the wrong thing to do the right thing. When disgraced pharmaceutical employee Jason Trumble (Jason Selvig, one half of the viral comedy duo The Good Liars) uncovers a bombshell of company corruption , he sets out in a rush to expose their wrongs and save millions of lives before they can dispose of him. As he goes on the run, he enlists the help of his computer-wiz cousin Charlie (Kara Young, of I’m a Virgo ) and his journalist ex-girlfriend Priya (Reema Sampat, of Orange is the New Black ). However, the man at the heart of the scandal has other plans. Jason Trumble is an up-and-coming hotshot software designer at Furenza Pharmaceuticals. His claim to ego: the Doxie app, which is designed to help curb addition by controlling the dispensed dosage of opioid recovery drug Doxie. After posting an embarrassing, drug-fueled rant online one night, Furenza fires Jason and he subsequently loses everything, resorting to living in his “Burning Man van.” To make ends meet, Jason turns to running his own computer and software repair business. When a serendipitous house call brings him face to face with his former boss, Gary (Davram Stiefler, the other half of The Good Liars)—who’s quite an arrogant jerk—Jason illegally copies Gary’s computer data. While sifting through the information, Jason uncovers damning evidence that the Doxie app is glitching, dispensing increased doses instead of decreased doses to people, causing them to become addicted, with the risk of overdose and death. The whistleblower stuff is that Furenza knows and is choosing to keep quiet because revenue is through the roof and the glitch has become their key money-making tool. Corporate greedmesiters. When Jason confronts Gary about it, some wild, unexpected action happens that shocks viewers and redirects Jason’s focus to one thing: taking down Furenza … or as Charlie puts it, “F**k them before they f**k you.” I was very pleasantly surprised with this film. From its screenplay to the acting to its balance in tone and technique, Blow Up My Life had my attention from its opening scene, which hooks viewers in with its graveyard setting, its 1940’s gumshoe-detective-style narration, and its lead actor. The narration is something I loved about this movie. Jason narrates his story into a tape recorder the whole time he’s on the run from Furenza. And this is where first-time, feature-length filmmakers Abigail Horton and Ryan Dickie go to work in tying in the levity not through the comedy itself but in the way it’s executed. It’s just genius , especially around this subject matter. It works really, really well and makes this viewing experience fun. Jason Selvig as Jason Trumble (Source: IMDb) Jason, sweet and naïve in his lack of awareness, delivers his story in such an engaging, unironic, deadpan way that he adds just the right touch of comedy without being overtly “in your face” and without cheesy dialogue. He’s very sincere and realistic—so much, in fact, that it’s easy for us to forget we’re following a character and not a real person in real life just trying to do the right thing. Selvig does a superb job at bringing an authentic level of humanity to Jason that viewers can’t help but feel sympathy for him. Kara Young also weaves in the levity with her character, Charlotte August (aka Charlie). Most of the time we see her, she’s on a computer screen hashing out Jason’s next movie with him regarding the conspiracy. It is she who calls out his naivete and helps clear a path to exposure and escape for him. She stands as the voice of reason when Jason wants to give up, kicking his ass back into action with her exciting “damn the man” speeches. Kara Young as Charlie August (Source: IMDb) The chemistry between Young and Selvig is palpable and delightful—they effortlessly feed of one another’s creative energy. But just because Blow Up My Life features levity does not mean it’s a light-hearted movie; quite the contrary. The thrills here involve life and death, non-stop close calls, and incriminating accidents. Surprisingly, though, the tragedy in this story comes not in overdoses but in wondering if Jason and Charlie will succeed and knowing what will happen if they fail. Another thing I loved about this movie is the soundtrack—music by P. Rose. The music paired with this story gave me an 80’s Teen Wolf vibe in the way the music helped to drive any action and mischief that’s happening on screen. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Could there have been a better soundtrack? No. Overall, Blow Up My Life is a nice change of pace from stories like Dopesick, and it has all the elements making up a must-see film: an excellent plot; effortless acting; a great soundtrack; nicely done editing; carefully explored cinematography; thrills, action, and comedy; a relevant message; an awesome screenplay; and an ending that leaves you breathless. You really can’t go wrong in this selection, which is riveting from start to finish and sure to be a classic. Blow Up My Life releases on digital platforms on Tuesday, November 21, 2023. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1UzETcrUUk8 Keeley Brooks is a big ole movies, television, and streaming nerd with a voracious appetite for entertainment consumption and an uncontrollable urge to write about everything she watches, even if it sucks. www.mixedaltmag.com Music | Mixed Alternative Magazine Southern-based indie music/arts/entertainment magazine with a 90s flair. www.mixedaltmag.com Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link

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. < Back Lowdown Road: Book Review Shaun Corley Nov 14, 2023 Share 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. The 1970s saw an explosion of “car” and “road” movies, such as 1971's Vanishing Point and Two-Lane Blackto p , among others. The decade also saw the rise of the “blaxploitation” genre, seen in movies like Shaft (1971) and Dolemite (1975) . Finally, the “Me Decade” featured a wide variety of colorful, larger-than-life media personalities, such as Evel Kneivel, who held millions spellbound with their antics. The 1970s were also a time of great social upheaval. Americans’ faith in their leaders took a serious hit during the Watergate Scandal; oil shortages led to long lines at the gas pumps; the war in Vietnam raged through the early part of the decade; and drug use, especially cannabis, permeated society. The hippie, “free love” movement of the 1960s had come crashing down at Altamont and never recovered. All of these seemingly separate threads converge beautifully in Scott Von Doviak ’s " Lowdown Road" —a crime thriller that Stephen King calls “ a f**king great story … it’s a blast.” “Lowdown Road” is published by Titan Books as part of their Hard Case Crime series and is Von Doviak’s second novel, following 2018’s “Charlesgate Confidential”, also part of the same series. A pop culture journalist for publications such as The AV Club , Von Doviak is also the author of several pop-culture reference books, including “ Hick Flicks: The Rise and Fall of Redneck Cinema ” and “ The Stephen King Film FAQ ” . “Lowdown Road” follows a cast of characters who would have been at home in the grindhouse, drive-in movies of the 1970s . The action kicks off when cousins Chuck and Dean Meville rip a million dollars worth of weed off dealer Antonie Lynch. Their plan: abscond with the product to Snake River Canyon in Idaho, where thousands of people are gathering to watch stuntman Evel Kneivel attempt to jump it on a motorcycle. There, they plan to make a fortune—one that will secure their futures. Naturally, Antonie does not take highly to Chuck and Dean’s plan, and after the cousins steal his weed, he takes off in pursuit. Also on Chuck and Dean’s trail is Sheriff Geddings. Geddings’ mistress tried to use Chuck and Dean in a plan to kill her husband, Geddings’ deputy; however, Chuck and Dean threw a spanner into his works by killing Geddings’ mistress in self-defense. Now blind with anger and seeking revenge, Geddings is a man on a single-minded mission: avenge his lover by killing Chuck and Dean—and God help whoever gets in his way. Von Doviak’s “ hick cinema ” background is a huge influence on “Lowdown Road” . Chuck and Dean are just a pair of good ole boys who mean no one harm, who suddenly find themselves fleeing for their lives while trying to chase what is left of the American Dream. The types of movies Von Doviak is invoking with “Lowdown Road” also regularly featured corrupt law enforcement officials, and Sheriff Geddings is cut from this mold as well. Meanwhile, Antonie could have walked straight out of a blaxploitation movie, another nod to 70s drive-in movies. Yet Von Doviak imbibes each character with nuances and quirks that take them beyond being mere caricatures, Antonie Lynch in particular. Lynch is engaged in a number of criminal enterprises, not just limited to dealing drugs. It may be tempting to write Lynch off as a “crook” or a “thug,” but Von Doviak digs deep into Lynch’s psyche and makes him a well-rounded character. Lynch, who is also a closeted gay man, meets Julian, who is also Black and gay. The two share not only a bed and a car but also their love of movies, particularly the works of French New Wave director Jean-Luc Godard. Julian and Antonie are perfect for each other, even if they do not realize it until it's too late. Beyond Chuck, Dean, Antonie and Sheriff Geddings, Von Doviak creates a number of compelling and quirky characters whose lives weave in and out of the main story. Some of these minor characters also invoke 70’s cinematic archetypes ; for example, Chuck and Dean run afoul of a bootlegging, backwoods family who could have been plucked from The Texas Chainsaw Massacre . Uptown Mike, the short-fused biker Chuck and Dean encounter, could have come from Easy Rider. These characters add spice and color to the narrative. As befitting its influences and inspirations, “Lowdown Road” moves at a breakneck pace. Never once does the plot drag, and Von Doviak infuses it with a number of twists and turns—some funny and others devastating. The book’s climax, set at Evel Knievel’s iconic jump of the Snake Canyon River, is gut-wrenching , with twists the reader will not see coming. The book is fittingly cinematic. The 1970s were one of the most turbulent decades in American history. The pop culture of the time reflected this, mirroring the concerns and fears of a world where the illusion of stability and progress was slowly slipping away. These anxieties manifested themselves in a variety of genres, and Scott Von Doviak’s “Lowdown Road”perfectly recreates these seminal works, while adding new and unexpected layers along the way. "Lowdown Road" is currently available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and you can check your local bookstore, as they'll likely be carrying it too. For more on Author Scott Von Doviak, visit his official page at www.ScottVonDoviak.com . 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