DCWS's Exclusive Interview With Alternative Rock Singer-Songwriter Megan Landry

On Megan Landry's Soundcloud profile, her bio line states "I am an artist", but after listening to her new single "Screaming Sun", it is clear that she is much more than just that. Based in Ottawa, Megan is pulling double duty as a college student studying multi-media design and is currently working on her next project, which follows her debut album from 2015, "STILLS".

We connected with Megan to find out how she manages being a student and aspiring rock star, how her latest single came together, how she stands apart from her musical influences and much more. After reading our Q&A with Megan, be sure to stream/download "STILLS" below.

I really love the instrumentation of your new single "Screaming Sun"; it's almost like a second voice on the song. Who produced it and how did the track come together? 

Thanks for noticing that. I love the details in pulling a piece together. I've been working with the same music engineer, Scott Walsh, for six years now—I was 14 when we did my first recording. It's always been the same pattern with us. I write all the music and lyrics first using my piano, often super late at night, or in the wee hours of the morning, and alone. Though piano is the base, there's always a full blown production in my head. Then I go to the studio to create that accoustic piece into my vision. It starts with recording how I first wrote it, then I direct the editing to build what I'm imagining. 'Screaming Sun' was done this way—piano and rough cut of the vocals, and then building around it. The notes organically progressed into voices during recording, accompanied by a citar. That part was spontaneous and experimental. I like doing that, even surprising myself sometimes. 

Voice or instrumentals, I love the way music can tip toe or slam, dance or run. It's on a different realm of reality, yet so connected to us in ours. Even with no words music feels happy/sad, it speaks in a universal language of its own and that's what I love to play with.

Who are some of your musical influences and how do you stand apart from them? 

This is always a tough question. I don’t identify with or measure myself to any one particular artist or band. I seriously love all music, all genres. I respect what goes into creating—it’s not easy. Some of my favourite artists include: St. Vincent, Lianne La Havas, Frank Ocean, Muse, Radiohead, Tame Impala, Patrick Watson, OkGo, Nirvana, Beatles, Beyoncé, The Neighbourhood, Skrillex, just to name a few—my genre list is varied too, including classical, some blues and jazz. My taste is all over the place. Maybe this is why I've never felt like I belonged to one genre.

What can you tell us about your second album? Do you have a title for it yet and how will it be different from your first album "STILLS"? 

My second album is four songs away from finished, very excited about this release. There's no general theme, just a stream of various thoughts influenced from things going on around me, including politics, world affairs, climate change and personal things too. The biggest difference between the two albums is the pace; my new album is more upbeat. I experiment with large choruses and big drums. From the lyric content to the music, I love to be expressive and individualistic straying from basic chords and topics choosing ones instead that I feel are culturally significant to my generation. 

There's no name yet, mulling around a few ideas still. I really want it to be special. As a share though, along with 'Questions [on the Cliff]' and 'Screaming Sun' some of the other titles include 'No politics in Pangea', 1996, Salt, 20 Candles, Paradigm, and Crawl.

To follow up on the last question, what are you most proud of with your debut album "STILLS"? 

STILLS was my first album, so the accolades it got took me by surprise, a good surprise. It was released in late August of 2015 and received two Indie album of the year acknowledgements. One was called a Rokky Award from a Canadian magazine Rokline, and the other was from a fairly prominent e-zine called Jammerzine.

You can catch the 2015 Rokky Awards: Favorite Canadian Indie Albums (top 15) article here ... mine is #10: http://www.rokline.com/2015-rokkies-favorite-canadian-albums
And, Jammerzine's, The 25 Best Indie Albums of 2015: Megan Landry – STILLS, I think it's American but I can't find anywhere where it says they are from http://jammerzine.com/the-25-best-indie-albums-of-2015-8/

I don't have a favourite song, they are so different. Some like 'Pieces', 'Cut To It' and 'Fork' are more personal than some of the others like 'Human Leather' or 'Yellow at a Funeral'. I am pleased though that as a debut album it was so well received. 

How do you juggle your college life with your musical aspirations? 

It's challenging. School has to come first, above all else. I think an education is critical, regardless of your path. I do feel though that education doesn't just come from school. I've learned and done so many things because of music. I'm not rushing towards anything either though. College life has other things about it, like partying and friends that is part of life. Everything will come together as it's meant to be. 

Connect with Megan Landry: Twitter   Facebook

PURCHASE "STILLS" by Megan Landry

DCWS's Exclusive Interview With David And The Curse Founder, David Stücken

Los Angeles based singer-songwriter-guitarist-pianist-producer David Stücken has often been compared to revered rocker Ryan Adams for his artistry, self-production and music craftsmanship. David is the force behind LA-based rock band David and The Curse whose dynamic debut An Epitaph For Love is due out early 2017. David wrote and produced the autobiographical album of gritty rock tales told through the lens of an anti-hero.

We connected with David to find out how the city of Los Angeles has influenced him as an artist, his creative process when developing a song, what he enjoys the most when performing live and much more.

You were born and bred in Los Angeles and are still based there. How has the city influenced you as an artist?

Being born in Los Angeles I was born with the "California Dream" already set in my mind. 

Describe your creative process for us, from song conception to the end and when do you know that a song is done?

Well, I always have music in my head. It starts on a tape recorder then goes to the studio and a son can always be messed with more. I think you know when it done when you just decide it sounds great and adding anything else would hurt it more than help it. 

Tell us about your upcoming release An Epitaph For Love. When is it dropping and what are you most proud of with this new album?

The album will be dropping in early 2017. I am most proud of the cohesiveness of the songwriting. 

What do you enjoy most about performing live? And tell us about a typical David and the Curse show.

I enjoy when the audience connects with the band and everyone becomes one and gets into the show. David and The Curse shows are spontaneous and very sweaty. We definitely put on a show but also keep the music integrity intact. 

To follow up on that last question, when and where can we see a performance of you and your band next?

We are playing at El CID in Silverlake, CA on Friday November 18th. 

Who is your favorite rock artist/band and how have they influenced you?

The Rolling Stones, Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, Don Henley. They're all great in their own ways but definitely influences through guitar playing and vocal parts as well as songwriting. "Sympathy For The Devil" is my favorite poem with music ever recorded. 

If you had to describe your music in three words, which three would you choose?

Refinement, truth, attitude. 

Connect with David and the Curse: Website   Twitter   Instagram   Facebook

Honeybone: Behind The EP - Spits And Curses

Once again, the Melbourne music scene is showing everyone why they are up there with some of the best musical cities from around the world. DOPECAUSEWESAID has an EP that you absolutely need to check out, and we promise you won’t regret it. 

Originating in New Zealand, Drew Handcock (guitar and vocals), Peter Jermakov (bass and backing vocals) and Rachel Trainor (drums and vocals) make up the three-piece garage rock band Honeybone. The band originally formed in 2009 in Dunedin. 

From 2014- 2015, Honeybone was secretly writing songs for the May 27 release of Spits and Curses produced by Lee Jones, the former frontman of the Solicitors, turned producer. The 2016 album was recorded over one long weekend with the trio returning a few weeks later to lay down the final vocals.  

Tumultuous relationships and lost love are common themes transformed into the hard rock aura of Spits and Curses. The five-song EP features a dynamic and diverse selection of equally impressive tracks, and we can definitely see ourselves cruising down the desert highways of Las Vegas with some Ray Bands on to this EP. The first song titled “Lonesome” immediately dragged us in with the crazy vocal diversity of the singers and the musical composition from the lead guitarist. The best thing about this EP is how diverse the band proves to be, showing the multiple skills of each musician. A good example would be the fourth track titled “Shotgun”, where drummer Rachel Trainor takes over lead vocals and shows everyone exactly why she is the woman for the job. The dynamic between the powerful male vocals and ambient female vocals almost broke our ears (in the best way possible).

Fun Fact: Honeybone plays a fictional band in a yet to be released film called Marital Problems, and Rachel even gets to punch one of the main actors in the face. The track “Lonesome” will also be featured in the film, so keep your eyes out for it! DOPECAUSEWESAID does not condone violence, but I think we can all agree it makes for some interesting (and hilarious) content.

You can find the Spits and Curses EP and follow the band to see about upcoming projects on their social media accounts below.

Connect with Honeybone: Website   Facebook   Soundcloud   Instagram   Bandcamp

Review: Wilco's "Schmilco"

Sometimes how you feel about an album comes down to setting. 

I listened to Wilco's Schmilco about 10 times (over the course of a week or two) before I found the perfect place to listen: Through headphones, on a cold, rainy day, the first of autumn, half asleep, after a long day of mind-numbing meetings. 

These songs are lullabies. 

I had enjoyed them during my commutes, during my walks around the park, but not nearly as much as I did while laying in my bed and fighting off sleep. 

The album starts with “Normal American Kids,” a simple tune featuring just one acoustic guitar, Jeff Tweedy's vocals, and some low-key noodling by, presumably, Nels Cline. The second track, “If I Ever Was a Child” is reminiscent of Wilco's outstanding 1999 release, Summerteeth. But even this is a softer, more contemplative Wilco. 

As is always the case with Wilco, the production is gorgeous and much of the orchestration is often unexpected. Bits of organ float in and out of songs, dancing alongside pedal steel guitars, and sprinklings of backing vocals—never in your face, just enough. 

Now I have to admit some bias that fans of Wilco will probably not find surprising: I don't think anything Wilco releases will ever be as great as their magnum opus, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot. So, whenever they come out with a new album, that silly part of my brain where knee-jerk reactions comes from tends to be forever comparing, forever judging. The same thing always happens: I listen once, and feel nothing. I listen again, and feel disgusted, my dumb mind screaming, “How dare this not be Yankee Hotel Foxtrot!”

Then I keep listening and I fall in love. 

“Common Sense” is probably the hardest track on Schmilco to wrap your head around. It sounds kind of like Sonic Youth playing acoustic guitars and trying to make, like, a Tom Waits album full of Halloween-themed songs. Or something. Or maybe it just sounds like Jeff Tweedy in a really strange mood. It's not melodic at all, but in the end, at the very least, it's an interesting track.

Then “Common Sense” gives way to the fifth track, “Nope,” which features a ridiculously infectious lead guitar riff that, of course, this being Wilco, is barely audible. The necessity of straining a bit to listen makes the riff that much sweeter. 

“Quarters” might be the best track on the album. But ask me again in a week and I'll probably have a different answer. The whole thing is worth listening to on repeat.

Schmilco is, ultimately, an outstanding release. 

Now it's time for a nap. 

Connect with Wilco: Twitter   Website   Facebook   Instagram

Purchase "Schmilco" by Wilco on iTunes

Interview: Alternative Rock Artist WRENN

WRENN is an alt-rock artist and a self-proclaimed “sad girl” who uses music as a means of communicating her feelings to the world. Mixing soulful, thoughtful lyrical content with 90’s-esque grunge instrumentation, the essence of WRENN’s music is both reminiscent of the past and a portal into the near future. The 20-year-old Los Angeles native has been featured on American Idol and The Voice, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve (where she performed with fellow singer Rachel Platten). WRENN is currently on her first nationwide tour – performing as a supporting act for headliner, American rocker and viral music star, Gnash. 

We connected with WRENN for this exclusive interview to get some insider information about her latest single 'I'm Tired of Being Alone', find out which artists have influenced her as a musician, as well as what we can expect from her upcoming EP "Without Reason". After reading this Q&A be sure to check out WRENN's upcoming tour dates with Gnash and get your tickets now!

Tell us about your latest single "I'm Tired of Being Alone". Is this song based on a personal experience?

It is and it isn't. My emotions get the best of me most of the time, and tend to overexagerate the intensity of a situation. Someone who was a part of my project left over really superficial reasons, and I honestly just got overwhelmed. Most of the creative process that take place in the “WRENN” project I’ve done pretty much on my own, and it just got to a point where I really wanted to share both the excitement and burden of this with someone else. I wrote the whole song in a night. 

Being only 20 years old and going on a nationwide tour with Gnash has got to be an amazing such a gratifying experience. What are you most excited about in regards to the tour?  And what do you hope to learn on the road?

We’re actually right in the middle of it right now. I’m actually writing this from the tour bus while we’re stopped in Nashville, TN. It’s been really gratifying so far, I’ve really never played shows to so many people who know my music. There got to be a point the other night where I stopped singing but the crowd kept going and it really gave me a moment of realizing why I do this. Even more so, I get to go and hang out with my friends after the shows. That's the thing, we’re all really actually friends. I honestly started crying in Dallas watching Gnash because I was just overwhelmed with how proud I am for everyone. I know that a bit all over the place, but hat’s what I hope to keep learning on tour. It’s a sprawling concept that keeps changing. 

Every artist has the own story about how they initially became interested in music. What motivated you to become an artist and who has influenced you musically? 

Honestly, I don’t really think there was one thing that ever pushed me to do music. I’ve been writing music for as long as I can remember. To me it has always been a normal, everyday part of life. If I were to delve deeper into it I would say it’s always been my way to cope with life. I identify and have been influenced by artist’s that share that same mentality; Keaton Henson, Kurt Cobain, Patty Smith, Courtney Barnett, and Anaiis Mitchell, to name a few. 

What can we expect from your upcoming debut EP "Without Reason", due for release in early 2017? 

In simplest terms, music that explores emotion that's normally not discussed. 

Are you writing and recording songs for the EP while you are on the road?

I actually finished all of the initial songs before I left. I’ve been working on new one since being on the road though and have a feeling I’ll end up on the EP very soon. 

Do you have a favorite song to perform live? If so, why?

“I’m Tired Of Being Alone” is definitely my favorite to do live. It’s just me & my drummer who play it and it’s super raw and emotional and there’s so many great parts to it both instrumentally, and vocally. 

Five years from now, where do you plan to be with your musical career?

Ahead.

Connect with WRENN: Website   Twitter   Instagram   YouTube

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Review: Max Fite's "Shake It On Down"

It's clear from the first bar of “Devil in Me,” that Max Fite's new album "Shake It On Down" is full of heavy, infectious riffs—and then when the vocals come in, it's equally obvious that the vocals are as polished and hook-laden as the guitars. Near the end of the track, it's also clear that the band draws from a variety of influences when an early Weezer-style lead guitar takes the song in an unexpected, but pleasant direction before coming back to the chorus.

The third track, “Court Jester,” starts with a bluesy, Jack White-esque intro before launching into a verse that is more reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age. Whether it is producer Jaron Luksa who helped draw together these various influences into Max Fite's sound, or whether it is just the band's natural inclination, it makes for interesting listening. Just when it seems like a song is heading in a certain direction, there enters an unexpected tone, or, like at the end of “Court Jester,” an unexpected tempo change. A song that starts off like simple blues rock ends up sounding like something from a Tony Hawk Pro Skater soundtrack.

“My Own Fantasy” is probably the most autobiographical track, telling the story of a guy who wakes up “shocked that I'm in one piece.” This is a song about insecurities, self-doubt, and, as the band repeats at the end, “living in my own little world/my own fantasy.”

The last track of the album, “Time to Heal,” is probably the most heartfelt piece on the album, and the softest too—with a simple drum, acoustic guitar, and lead riff intro, it sets the stage for the emotional story that unfolds. The song is about the death of a loved one. The chorus is a vulnerable cry for “time to heal.” It's a song that almost anyone can relate to, but even if you haven't experienced a similar situation, Max Fite delivers the message clearly and effectively.

Each track on "Shake It On Down" offers a slightly different side of Max Fite, a band whose talents are apparent throughout the entire 22-minute release.

Connect with Max Fite: Facebook   Website   Bandcamp

Stream/Download "Shake It On Down" by Max Fite

Merlot Embargo: An Indie-Rock Experience

Merlot Embargo’s debut release "Don’t Look Back" plays less like an album and more like an indie-rock experience. Hitting the listener with touches of youthful wonder and sometimes upfront honesty and angst, Merlot Embargo finds a way to inject some refreshing creativity into every square inch of their 9 track LP. 

"Don’t Look Back" thankfully does not try to be like any other piece of art in its genre. Though Merlot Embargo employs indie-pop overtones within their album, it only takes one listen to discover that there are many other driving forces at work. Blues-style blasts of sweeping guitar chords, driving drums, and multi-layered strings pepper tracks like “We All Fall Down,” “How To Survive An Apocalypse,” and “Storms,” providing the album with an epic, driving atmosphere. Tracks like “In The End” and “All Who Are Lost” are gripped with beautiful melodies and heart-felt lyrics, taking the listener beyond the music and into the life of the artist. 

The husband and wife/songwriter and producer duo who make up Merlot Embargo, Geoff and Scarlet, feel they owe their creative spark to a near fatal automobile accident during the winter of 2014. Their flirt with death unleashed a sort of creative floodgate that gave the pair a vision to paint the world with their music. “It was clear,” says Geoff, “that we had something special.”

"Don’t Look Back" is an album with great songs that, as a whole, creates something thematically and musically unique. With individual moments of creativity and risk-taking, "Don’t Look Back" puts Merlot Embargo miles ahead of other bands. As Scarlet sings on the opening line of “Head Above The Water,” “Some things in life will knock you off your feet.” Indeed, Merlot Embargo is one of these things. 

Connect with Merlot Embargo: Website   Twitter   Instagram   Facebook

 

Purchase "Don't Look Back" by Merlot Embargo

William Wilson is a freelance writer, musician, husband, and connoisseur of the finer things in life. For contact info, send a email to writewilliamwilson@gmail.com

Toy Cars Wants To Bring You in Close, Then Scream in Your Ear

I was in a random dude's living room in New Jersey some time this past summer when I first saw Toy Cars perform. There was probably 20 or thirty people there, standing directly in front of the band.

I had no idea what to expect. I'd never seen them, or even heard of them, before. It was a typical random rock show: A bunch of bands playing together for one night, and one night only. I figured we'd all probably forget each other's names after we left. I can never remember the names of most of the bands, or the people in them, or really anything about the night, usually. It's nothing personal. I don't expect them to remember me either.

But I didn't forget Toy Cars—as soon as they started playing it was clear that they weren't your run-of-the-mill local band. They had a ton of energy, and great songs—and, most importantly, they seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves. It was one of those sets that makes time seem to speed up and slow down at the same time.

They made that dude's living room feel like it was a stadium. 

And now, with their new EP, Sleeping Patterns, out on Friday, September 16, they pull off a similar feat: The five songs are somehow simultaneously intimate and gigantic at once.

The EP starts with “Bjork,” which puts vocalist Matt DeBenedetti's half-screaming-but-still-somehow-melodic style on display, and then Matt Caponegro's guitar comes in. It fills everything out—he does ambiance perfectly. Drummer Mike Linardi and bassist Chris Beninato lock in immediately, giving Toy Cars a driving sound that is especially strong on the EP's single, “Stone.” 

“Dull,” essentially a folk song, changes things up—it's just DeBenedetti singing and playing acoustic guitar. Placed right in the middle of the EP, it's the perfect break of the loud-quiet dynamic shifts of the rest of the tracks. It has a Bright Eyes feel to it, which they return to on the final track, “Albatross,” a song about growing older, about regret, about devoting yourself to the things you love even if, as DeBenedetti sings, “every thing you've ever loved is gonna bury you some day.”

Well, let's hope that day doesn't come any time soon for Toy Cars: Sleeping Patterns is the work of a mature band, and if it's any indication about their future, they've got a lot more to offer.

Sleeping Patterns is available on vinyl from Counter Intuitive Records and on CD from Sniffling Indie Kids.

Connect with Toy Cars: Facebook   Bandcamp

L.M. Alder is a writer, librarian and musician. His stories, poems, and reviews have appeared in Asimov's, Ghost Town, decomP, Corium, the EEEL, and other places. He is the co-author of A Cathedral in a Mason Jar: The Untold Story of Elvis Presley (tNY.Press, 2016). You can check out his band at TheDeafeningColors.com.

Rock/Pop Duo Merlot Embargo Discusses Their Debut Album "Don't Look Back"

Merlot Embargo is a Los Angeles based Rock/Pop songwriter/producer pair (and husband/wife) who just released their debut album "Don't Look Back".  We connected with the duo to find out more about their unique name, the new album, their creative process and much more.  After reading our exclusive interview with Merlot Embargo, support this amazing duo by purchasing their debut album on iTunes.

I'm a big fan of the name 'Merlot Embargo'; what significance does it have to you?

Geoff: Hah! We've generally left the origins of our name a bit mysterious, but lets just say we named our band based on a big fight we had.  It's kind of funny now, though.  
Scarlet: Seriously. We're laughing. Trust us.

How would you describe your music to someone who hasn't heard you guys?

Geoff: Scarlet's described us as a "modern-day, unconventional family band," and although that doesn't really describe what we sound like in specific terms, I think it does get at the spirit of our vibe, and in a roundabout way, even our sound.  I'm a little less creative with my words, so I might say we're sort of americana singer-songwriter pop rock.  Although there are definitely songs on the record that don't really fit in that description either.

Scarlet: We have been influenced by such an array of musical icons and styles, you can hear all of them in almost any song you hear on the album. There's not much that doesn't get us grooving so you're likely to hear an even more eclectic collection of sounds in our next few songs. But words that come to mind are: Vintage, Soul, Grit, and Groove.

How did the automobile accident in 2014 affect you as musicians and has it changed your outlook on life any way?

Scarlet: I think it had a huge impact on getting the ball rolling for getting this album done. I walked away with an almost subconscious but indelible impression on my mind of one big question: Would I have had any regrets if those had been my last moments? And the ONLY one that kept coming to the forefront was that I knew I had a lot of unfinished work in me musically. And to not give it one really good shot would have been a serious regret.

What's the creative process like for you in regards to the development of a new song?

Scarlet: The two places where ideas come to me the most are the car and the shower. On occasion I might say to myself it's time to write a song and grab a guitar and just do it, but mostly it has to start with one little thought, musical line, catchy turn of phrase that just won't leave my head. I have a so many random voice memos on my phone of me just scatting or singing stream-of-consciousness style. And many of the songs have their origins in there. 

Geoff: I'm less abstractly creative than Scarlet, so my role in producing and arranging seems a little more like work, although I enjoy it immensely.  My whole goal is to find the best way to present the song without getting in the way or overproducing, which is really easy to do these days with unlimited track counts and virtual instruments up the ying yang.  

Tell us about your debut album "Don't Look Back"; what are you most proud of with this release?

Geoff: Man, there are so many things that went into it, it's hard to pick one.  So I'll pick a few: I'm really proud of the fact that I can forget about all of the specifics of all of the details that went into each track and just enjoy the music - hopefully that means we succeeded with the production - that it doesn't get in the way of the songs.  The second is the variety on the whole album.  I think each track is unique and interesting, and yet still sounds like us. Also, on the engineering nerd side of things, I'm pretty proud of the fact that the stuff we recorded is 99% real instruments that a real person played.  (There is a single software instrument in one song that we ended up keeping.  If anyone wants to have a guess what it is, please write us - if you're the first to get it right, we'll send you a t-shirt :-)

Scarlet: That it's finally finished! It's an incredible feeling of accomplishment to have been working on something for so long (2yrs and some odd months) and actually finally have a THING. Especially since the thing actually sounds pretty damn good -- I'm just so glad it actually does sound good.   

If you had to pick one song from the album as your favorite, which one would you select and why?

Geoff: For me it's "How to Survive an Apocalypse."  That song went through a several revisions before we arrived at the arrangement on the album; and i had a bit of a love/hate relationship with it for a while.  

Scarlet: "Apocalypse" is definitely a good one. I think my favorite one to sing is "Freaks On A Train". I've had my ups and down in that relationship as well.

What's a typical Merlot Embargo live performance like and will you be touring in support of the "Don't Look Back" album?

Geoff: We're a pretty relaxed bunch on stage.  I know some bands rehearse everything down to the details, but that's not what we've done.  I think we've got a bit of a good back and forth stage banter and presence, and having a pair of front people is nice too.  For one, it means I don't have to worry about dead time if I need to tune my guitar or something.  

Scarlet: Yeah, I don't stop talking so filling gaps has never been much of a problem for me. We don't have a tour set yet, but if it ends up making sense and working out, we'd love to.  At first we'll be sticking to local clubs and opportunities though.  Our website and social media sites will keep everyone updated on any upcoming shows.

What's next for you musically after "Don't Look Back"?

Geoff: We're always writing and working on new material.  In fact we just got hooked up with a day in a nice studio this weekend, so we'll be working on a new tune - maybe it'll end up as a single, maybe for the next album; we'll see.  

Scarlet: Actually yeah I've been writing since I finished writing the tunes on this album. So hopefully by the time we're ready to solidify the next one I've weeded out some pretty nice songs. We will also be releasing a few singles and some more music videos for the other songs on the album.

Connect with Merlot Embargo: Website   Facebook   

Peter Wells, Lead Vocalist of Parker Road, Discusses Their Upcoming Album "Simple Days"

We sat down with Peter Wells, founder, lead-vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist of the Rock/Alternative band Parker Road to talk about life, music, and their forthcoming album, Simple Days.

What is the inspiration behind your new song, “Simple Days”?

I wrote "Simple Days" with my best friends in mind. It's really about the journey of those friendships from the days when we were care free to the days when tragedy hit, distance became greater, and the pressures of life set in. I know for me, my life has changed so much in the last two or three years, and between that and all the chaos that surrounds us in the world today, at times I wish I could go back when life was simpler, before life started to make its mark.

What inspires you to write?

My inspiration to write usually comes from things I've been wrestling with personally, whether that be certain ideas or philosophies, or events that have happened. I write hoping that a song can be a voice for someone that is wrestling through something similar.

What is different about the music on this upcoming release? How does it differ from your previous music?

I think this album is lyrically more personal and also more accessible to the listener than my last. Musically, my last album was the first rock album I had written and it was the first time I had single handedly written every song on an album. Before that, I was in heavier bands and would co-write with the band. It [this album] was definitely a learning experience stylistically and it pushed me as a writer. The way I approached writing this album was different, too. Before, I would usually write the entire song musically first and then I would start writing lyrics and melodies, while trying to fit them into the music I had demoed out. This time I wrote music and lyrics more at the same time which really helped the songs become what they are more naturally. I definitely feel more grounded as a writer with this album. 

Was there an intentional decision to progress with your music for your second body of work?

Definitely. I wanted to write music that was more colorful. I have synesthesia, so that's the best way I know how to say it. Maybe in other words, I wanted to write music that had more dimension and emotion. That also influenced the decision to change this from a solo project to something that can evolve into something more.

What do you hope your music accomplishes? 

hope my music, aside from being fun to listen to, is able to connect with people more honestly than a lot of music I've been hearing lately. I hope it can inspire people to not give up on their passions, to appreciate their friends and family, and to keep moving forward when times are tough or when you feel displaced in life.

What do you hope people take away from listening to ‘Simple Days”?

After listening to the song "Simple Days" I hope people remember to appreciate where they are at the moment. I think the first verse says it well, "they were simple days and we had no clue". Life rarely seems to simplify itself and people are always looking at what's next instead of appreciating the moment. I catch myself doing that a lot. We rarely appreciate what we have until we look back on it. So I hope it helps people appreciate where they're at and who they're with right now, and not just be consumed with what's next.

What does the ideal ‘simple day’ look like to you? (I.e. what do you like to do with your ‘free time’?)

What's free time? *laughs. Well, when I'm not at work or in the studio, which is rare, I love to completely separate myself from both. Whether it's sitting out on my porch in a warm summer night, or binge watching a TV show, I enjoy just getting away. Sometimes sitting outside and taking in the peacefulness is the ideal simple day for me. When I get the chance, I also love traveling wherever I can. Being able to get away and appreciate something that I don't experience every day is something I really enjoy too.

Should we be on the lookout for the new album?

Yes! The album is dropping on 9/23/2016!

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Daniel Wilson is a freelance writer and musician residing in Central Pennsylvania. For contact info, send an email to danielmarkwilson@comcast.net. 

King Pig’s Self-Titled EP: Why You Need To Keep This Band on Your Radar

King Pig is an Australian band made up of Cairns natives, Dal and Tim, who released a killer self-titled debut EP in November of 2014. The boys started out playing in a reggae band, eventually relocating to Melbourne where they redefined their sound and started up a brand new project. Taking the band’s name from the end level boss in the popular game Angry Birds, King Pig is showing the world why the Melbourne music scene is a force to be reckoned with.

Having both worked on the Cairns franchise of balcony TV, these guys are no strangers to the music world. Tim busked his way across the east of Australia, playing in almost every small town and allowing the landscape to influence his music, while Dal works at the Victorian Arts Centre as a successful audio engineer.

In the words of lead singer Tim, the King Pig EP is a collection of six songs ranging in style from straight old time folk to dark pop and blues. The ending of Tim’s long-term relationship, family, and the uncertainty of change were the major driving factors behind the creation. With influences like Radiohead, Earl Scruggs, and Sun House, you can bet this band is only putting out top quality work.

Between the peaceful vocals and exceptional musical composition of each track, the overall feel of the EP is a very collected and easy listening one. The band’s strongest track on the EP is titled Right Sun, and immediately draws the listener in with an amiable and uplifting vibe. Each of the six songs is unique and gives off an individual feel, proving the overall project to be diverse and refreshing.

For Dal and Tim, standing still is not an option, and you can expect more great work from King Pig in the near future. They are currently in the process of creating a full-length album, and will hopefully be releasing a single very soon. If their upcoming album is anything like their first project, you should definitely be keeping your eye out for the release.

Below, you will find King Pig’s social media accounts and links to listen to their self-titled EP, as well as keep up with future projects.

Connect with King Pig: Facebook   Instagram   YouTube   Twitter

Bateau is a Melbourne, Australia based Trip-Hop/RnB/Hip-Hop artist as well as a DOPE writer and friend of DCWS. You can follow her on Instagram at #bateauofficial or at bateauofficial.wordpress.com

Merlot Embargo Sets It Off With Their Debut Album "Don't Look Back"

Merlot Embargo will at once bring you both whimsy and angst with "Don't Look Back", their debut release.  A collection of indie-rock anthems, swampy stomp grooves and glowing string harmonies, it explores both the serious and the silly, from a child's imagination to being comfortable with one's own eccentricities.  

"Don't Look Back" was born of a years-long songwriting project undertaken in 2014.  After walking away from an automobile accident that should have been fatal, songwriter/producer (and husband/wife) Scarlet and Geoff felt compelled to create.  "Don't Look Back" has clear Americana pop sensibilities, brought to life with both traditional pop/rock instrumentation and provocative colors including kalimba, banjo, and toy piano.  You'll find yourself bobbing your head as a rhythm section with a deep pocket supports a sultry and powerful voice singing from the depths of her soul. 

Since 2009, the members of Merlot Embargo have released music under various other projects, including the bands The Jingle Boys, Johnny Hi-Fi and High Watermark.  In forming Merlot Embargo and creating "Don't Look Back", the band has refined their tastes and song-craft into a unified message which speaks with a clear, if dynamic, voice. 

Merlot Embargo performs locally in the greater Los Angeles area and throughout Southern California.  If you get a chance to see them live, do it; you won't look back.

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Purchase "Don't Look Back" by Merlot Embargo

Our Exclusive Interview With Singer-Songwriter C.R. Gennone

C.R. Gennone is one of New Jersey's most prolific songwriters: He released five EPs in 2015, his first full-length album with C.R. Gennone and The Degenerates, “Salt of The Earth,” in June of 2016, and is already at work on a follow-up to be released in 2017. He also wrote almost every tune on Tribal Days' May 2016 full-length release, “Laughing at the Funeral.”

We had a chance to discuss some of Gennone's creative influences, dietary preferences, and spiritual leanings in the interview below.

You've released a lot of music lately. What do you think is driving your creativity? What do you aspire to? In Moby Dick, Herman Melville wrote, "For all men tragically great are made so through a certain morbidness....all mortal greatness is but disease." Do you think ambition is a disease? If so, what is the cure?

Creativity comes in waves. I don't think I'm driven by anything in particular. Sometimes certain lines or melodies just hang in the ether and sometimes you have it and sometimes you don't. It all depends on what I'm going through or sometimes I'll hear something interesting that someone says. You just have to be an active listener. Listen to everything. Eavesdrop on people's conversations, listen to their stories, get something out of them and be the voice.

I aspire to be an artist that can't be pinned down as just one thing. Categories are stupid. Sure, sometimes I play rock and roll. Sometimes I don't. They can call me whatever they want, just fuckin' listen to the song. I want someone to hear my music and be like, "oh, it's Chris." That's all.

I don't think ambition is a disease. I think ambition gives you strength. While ambition and ability are two different things, you cannot succeed without ambition. Sure, I get negative about shit and can be cynical too, but at the end of the day; and I know this sounds cliche, but if you don't have ambition, set goals or believe you can make it, you won't.

If your latest album, Salt of The Earth, was a farm animal, which animal would it be, and why?

I'd say Salt of the Earth is kind of like a bronco. The album is about being in this certain stage in your life and thinking about all the good memories, the future and the regrets. I think it relates to a bronco because they both come from a wild, unrestrained place and are eventually tamed to become part of the norm. 

You recently signed to the Sniffling Indie Kids label, which released your last album. How has it been working with them? Do they actually sniffle? If so, why don't they see a doctor?

They're good dudes. I've gotten to know them a little bit more lately. Frank is definitely the go-getter, which is what every great label needs. And Eric is kind of the taste master. Him and I like a lot of the same bands. It's still a really small label but they support my thing and help promote their bands so it feels good to have that.

I told them they should go see a doctor but I'm not sure if they have insurance.

If you were born in the early 20th century, and a dictator like, say, Joseph Stalin wanted to pay you exorbitant amounts of money to be the State's official musician, but you were only allowed to compose patriotic propaganda songs, how much money would you need to be paid (using American dollars as of 2016 as a reference point) to do it? Why would you or would you not do it?

Would I be killed if I refused? Maybe I could write propaganda songs but have little underlying tones that made fun of him. Then I'd probably be killed. I wouldn't do it. Being rich would be cool but the last thing I want to be is a fuckin' joke. And maybe that's a superficial reaction but if I was the same person and really wanted my own music to be heard, I wouldn't do it.

Let's talk about novels. This isn't a question. Just talk about novels for a little while.

When I lived in Chicago, one of my favorite past times used to be smoking a cigarette and reading a book in the bathtub. It just felt so satisfying. I don't know why. I read a lot of books during that time. Lot of Kerouac, a Che Guevara biography, some Proust, Hemingway and Bukowski.

I'm sure there's some great modern novels out there, but it just doesn't really pique my interest. I'd rather read more of the classics or some interesting biographies. Been meaning to check out the new Replacements book and I read about half of the Tom Petty one, which was cool, but also lost my interest.

Peanut butter: Chunky or creamy?

Definitely chunky. I like anything that's crispy or crunchy.

If you had to choose one musician to be your father, which of the following would it be? Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Tom Waits, or Johnny Cash? Who would be your top pick and why? Who would be your last pick and why?

I'd have to say Tom Waits. I feel like he'd be a supportive parent and even though he'd probably come home late and drunk every other night, he'd probably be the easiest to get along with. He'd be the kind of father you can have a drink with at the bar and shoot the shit as if you were just acquaintances.

My last pick would be either Bob Dylan or Mozart. I think Dylan wouldn't give a shit about much of anything. His persona and ego is larger than he is. He'd be the kind of dad that would come home once a month and then just disappear. And Mozart would probably just drive me crazy. I like the idea of living a little loosely and I feel Mozart would be a pretty strict father. It'd be cool if he were the same kind of person he was in Amadeus though.

Do you believe that human beings have a soul? If so, please describe what the soul consists of and tell us about where you think the soul goes after bodily death.

Yea. But I think the phrase "having a soul" is a matter of interpretation. Everyone's got "soul." I believe the soul is just basically your purest self. I suppose it's impossible to envision, but if you try to strip away everything and get down to your deepest, darkest and most honest thoughts, you'll feel it. I think it's part of your subconscious. We layer so many things on top we can lose sight of who we are or don't even know who we are. It definitely takes some kind of deconstruction to get there. But it's possible.

I'd like to believe in a heaven but I don't buy it. I believe our souls just wander after death. They take whatever beings or vessels they can take and live up to another 100 years. When we die, it's just our bodies and the vessel that dies. But souls live forever. Deep stuff. Anyway, that's what I believe.

Connect with C.R. Gennone: Twitter   Facebook   Instagram   Bandcamp   

L.M. Alder is a writer, librarian and musician. His stories, poems, and reviews have appeared in Asimov's, Ghost Town, decomP, Corium, the EEEL, and other places. He is the co-author of A Cathedral in a Mason Jar: The Untold Story of Elvis Presley (tNY.Press, 2016). You can check out his band at TheDeafeningColors.com.

Prolifica Records Releases Debut EP From Alt-Rock Band Human In Bloom

“One of the most talented bands coming through the ranks at the moment"
http://www.subba-cultcha.com/

 Story is brief and fortuitous…. 
Alfio (drummer) met Arty (singer) and his free spirit in a restaurant in Melbourne, 
heard him busk and casually mentioned he had a good recording setup back at home… 
Cue foggy Rovigo, North of Italy a few months later… They write and write and, visa upon visa eventually make their way to London where they are joined by bassist Joe from Milan and on guitar Elliot from, well, London ;)

With influences ranging from Foals to The XX and from Radiohead to Daughter, 
and after an aborted attempt with a techno-rock producer from Germany, they literally ‘wish upon a star’ they could miraculously work with anyone from Muse’s production team and low and behold, that very night the band’s long term collaborator (as recording engineer, additional producer, mix engineer etc) Tommaso Colliva, asks to be put on the guest list for their show…
 
He has a fresh Grammy in his tiny London studio (Drones), really likes them and
commits to producing an EP for free :0 ;) ;) 

 And here it is… 
(and yes it does deal with deep existential issues like freedom and fulfillment, synthetic realities and urban alienation… but all in a gloriously positive way and with unflinching optimism and benevolence… 
and the flip side’s about war…).

 “Robots with emotions” indeed.

 Hope you enjoy.
#onlyhuman

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Stream/Download "EP#ONE" by Human In Bloom

Interview: Sick of Sarah On Fame, Their Band Name, And Live Shows

Sick of Sarah is the hot chick punk band you’ve been missing in your life.  Whether you’re looking to get some rock fueled angst out of your system or just looking for a visceral, authentic band experience, Sick of Sarah is the perfect band for you.  While the band of badass chicks has been around for a decade and has appeared at some of the best music festivals, like Warped Tour and South by Southwest, they haven’t busted through to our radios and Spotify accounts… yet.  Sick of Sarah is becoming a demanded name around the country; they’re names headline concerts, benefits, and music festivals from coast to coast.  In fact, Charlotte, North Carolina houses an immense fan base to the band.

Chicago field reporter Carmen Lawrence sought out the bands manager, Michelle King (an awesome lady and badass manager, she might add), for an exclusive interview with the band’s front runners, lead singer/guitarist Abisha Uhl and drummer/backup vocalist Jessica Forsythe. Jessica and Abisha were gracious enough to take a few minutes out of their busy schedules on their way to perform at a music festival to answer some questions and shout out to their fans.

To start us off, I’d like to get an answer for curious fans like myself: where does the band name, Sick of Sarah, come from?

Abisha:  The name actually came about when my roommate, Sarah, was telling me she was sick of her own name.  She was drunk, it was funny, and we needed a name!

You guys recently left your label, Adamant Records, after working with them for years.  For the first time in your careers, you’re self-releasing your work.  What drove the choice to leave, and how has the transition been?

A:  We wanted to be more in control of our music, so we parted ways with our old label.  It was a difficult decision, but necessary.

You recently got to work with Belinda Carlisle (lead singer from The Go-Gos, for fans who forgot).  How was that experience?  That kind of work can be overwhelming!

A:  Yeah, we got to perform with Belinda at the YouTube studios last year.  We were on a show with her called Breaking Band on AXS Television.  We also toured with The Bangles a few times and that was amazing.

Your music is certainly reminiscent of the chick-rock style.  You’re popularly compared to groups like Tegan & Sara, Paramore, and Sleater-Kinney.  All that aside, who do you hold up as inspirations as songwriters, instrumentalists, and performers?

Jessica:  We love all those bands you just listed!  I grew up listening to 90’s alternative rock: bands like No Doubt, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bush, Weezer.  I love Dave Grohl (guitarist, singer, and songwriter from Nirvana and Foo Fighters), his story inspires me.  There’s so much great music out there right now.  I recently learned about Borns and recently had a chance to see them perform for the first time in Minneapolis – amazing show and I loved their sound!  Shout to out their drummer Kristen, she killed it!

Speaking of live performances, it’s clear that live performances are really visceral experiences for you both.  You get into your songs in a way many performers aren’t wont to do, and I can see a real connection to your music.  Could you talk a bit about the meaning of live performances to you both?

A:  I take performing very seriously.  I want listeners to feel the same way I did when I wrote the lyrics.  People won’t believe in you unless you believe in yourself.  I always want to give the audience the best I can.

J:  I love performing!  It’s a lot of fun.  The fans who show up to our shows make it all worth it to me.  I can’t do as much interacting as I wish I could behind the [drum]kit, but I love smiling out into the crowd and watching people rock the f*** out.

South by Southwest is a huge music festival, known for showcasing bands with limited fan bases and launching them towards lucrative careers.  How was the festival for you this year? Can you talk a bit about your experience, walking into that high-stakes arena of performance?

A:  SXSW is always so much fun!  The vibe you get in Austin, especially during the festival, is surreal.  Good music, good food, good people.  This year we got to perform with a wide variety of musicians, which was great.  I can’t wait to go back next year.

On that note, you’re about to arrive in Utah to perform at Women’s Red Rock Festival!  This year marks the tenth anniversary of the festival.  With Sick of Sarah being just a bit older than the festival, you’ve got to be pretty pumped about this opportunity (and it’s very clear that they’re excited to have you there).  Anything you’d like to share with fans eager to see you?

J:  Yeah, we’re actually driving to Torrey [Utah] now!  The mountains are beautiful and I am so eager to meet all the wonderful, beautiful women Jeri has been telling us about!  Especially since this is the festival’s tenth year anniversary.  We’re so excited to be a part of it.

A:  We can’t be more excited to be a part of this festival.  Jeri Tafoya is the founder of WRRMF and she is the best!  I’m so happy she invited us to play this year.  Really looking forward to this event.  Plus, Utah is beautiful this time of year.  I want to see some stars!

You guys have been busting your asses for over a decade now.  Your music is certainly getting noticed and you’ve got fans everywhere clamoring for you.  All it might take is one big performance to reach a new level of fame.  Are you two in this for the long haul?

J:  We’ve definitely been going hard with this for a long time and have had the opportunity to see the world and meet some incredible people.  It’s definitely a tough industry to break through.  It’d be great to live off strictly playing music someday!

I heard about Sick of Sarah on a recent trip to Charlotte, where a friend had heard your music and couldn’t believe you weren’t on the radio.  You’ll be returning to Charlotte for a benefit concert in October that directly impacts LGBTQ+ businesses, which is raw awesomeness. What does this benefit concert mean to you two?  Why are you willing to come all the way across the country that supports this community that so admires you?

J:  We met our good friend Maureen, who was on the chamber of commerce committee, at a show last year at The World Famous Milestone [a popular Charlotte club].  She asked if we’d be interested in performing for the benefit concert.  We love and support the LGBT community everywhere and we love the idea of helping people in the LGBT community receive grants to pursue their dreams in business.

Thank you both so much for talking with me and sharing your time with me.  To wrap up this interview, I’ve got one question everyone always seems to pose and is always just as hard to answer: what’s on the horizon for you two?  You’ve had an amazing 2016, one that is unparalleled by a lot of bands rising to mass popularity.  I’m sure you’ve got some big dreams and plans for what’s to come!

A:  We are currently writing.  We’ve been writing a ton!  New music is coming and we can’t wait to share it with the world!

Connect with Sick of Sarah: Website   Facebook   Instagram   Twitter   YouTube

Carmen R. Lawrence is a freelance writer currently located in Chicago, IL.  Though she writes about topics as varied as craft beer, theatre, and video games, writing about music is a passion and a pleasure.  Follow her on Twitter at @carmenrlawrence or find her on Facebook at carmen.lawrence1

Everlost US Drops New Alternative Rock EP "Live And Let Go"

Everlost US is an alternative rock solo project formed by Jared Kay. Starting off in multiple bands, Jared learned the song writing process as well as every instrument needed to literally become a one man band. His first EP "The Hardest Things To Say" released independently in September 2014 debuting a sound combining potent vocal hooks, powerful drums and guitars, and melodic piano. He received praise from Absolute Punk, AXS Magazine, UnderTheGun Review and more.

While writing and recording Jared focused on growing his presence in the local Orlando scene by playing multiple festivals and organizing benefits. With "Live and Let Go", which dropped on August 6th, he plans to show his determination and growth as a solo musician and make a name for himself nationally.

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Download "Live and Let Go" by Everlost US