Music Guru Magazine
Musician Spotlight
August 8th 2018
As far as what I would like to say is.
I was born in Watertown NY 1976. I grew up listening to my Dad strum his acoustic. He was shy around people. Sometimes used a drink to open up around people. I then became interested in music videos, MTV and radio. Julian Lennon was my first like but...my first favorite band became Aerosmith. I saw songs off from Permanent Vacation and the RUN DMC collaboration for Walk This Way. I was hooked. I then decided to buy all their back records and listen to them all up until current and continued buying them right up until today. My favorite album probably is NINE LIVES. Joe Perry and Brad Whitford were big influences on me (guitar playing) and Aerosmith taught me some things about life. Some a little late. Over indulgences. Addictions that I have overcome.
Later, came Pearl Jam. I grew up in a house of abuse. I totally paid attention to the Jeremy video and it blew my mind and I became addicted to Eddie Vedder's lyrics and Pearl Jam's music and guitar army. A band, I could totally relate to on a personal level. It was like psychiatric bliss. Music was the friend and family I didn't have. To put it all in perspective, I was abused, my parents divorced (nasty, I might add) and I lived with my Grandparents. I am very thankful for them. I had too much freedom! I was out control for a long time. Other bands I like are Steve Miller Band, Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden, Metallica, Def Leppard etc.
After that I entered college and graduated high school in 94'. I contemplated quitting high school in 12th grade. I switched from Indian River High, back to Gouverneur High because I would not have graduated on time at Indian River. Gouverneur was doing semesters, instead of normal class timing. I did graduate and went to Canton college where things were even more out of control. My father had a heart attack during this and my head was not in the right place at all during that while episode. I dropped out of classes. Later, I went back to school and am doing very well. It is a work in progress. I am on National Leadership Society of Success at Jefferson Community College, Watertown NY for Chemical Dependency...
After picking up the pieces a few times (all the while writing songs) like Gypsy Queen, No Gravity, Crashed, Freedom's Ghost etc. - all of which I took to Lake Effect Mud came along. Long story short, the band lasted a few years with me. As time has passed I have went on to be in other bands such as The Lost Pariah's and Wanted. There are some songs I wrote during the Lost Pariah's that stick. I still have them kicking around for future recording. I think they are good songs. After all that I have also written with others and wrote my first album, Angelic Being. A lot of them songs were from the 90's. I still continue to write songs and have a boatload of songs to record. My next goals are to have my own studio and keep writing, which I am. I think my next album may have a ballad or two of sorts, but will probably be heavier. I play many instruments. Drums, guitar (lead and rhythm)- bass guitar, some harmonica, piano, sing, write. I would love to have a whole 5 piece band or so again. That would be cool. But I am also cool with being a solo musician.
I stand against mental health stigma. That is a big thing for me. I have played some Hope Vigils as well and lost some good, best friends to suicide. If you would like to purchase my disc, or download you can find it on CDBABY. https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/billdraper
I am also in another project with Kimberly A. Cavanagh. It is a raw disc based on original poetry and music. Concepts and themes such as spirituality, mental health, family, kids, trauma etc. It is available at CDBABY - https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/billdraperandkimberlyaca
My facebook page is - https://www.facebook.com/BillzillaDraper
Reverbnation - https://www.reverbnation.com/billydraper
Twitter - (@BillyDraper2)
Youtube - I can be found here!
You can reach me for gigs and or email correspondence at amusememusically1@gmail.com OR the facebook page.
I am also on Spotify.
Thank You Jennifer! -Written by Bill Draper himself
Bill Drape
Never More, Never Less
NEVER more, NEVER less
I was never yours.
IF.
All that you chose
To keep
Wasn't mine.
Wasn't yours.
All the pain held inside.
Wasn't mine.
Wasn’t yours.
But yet still held inside.
You are not mine.
All the pain kept around.
Isn't mine.
Isn't yours.
But yet still nothing found.
Never more.
Never less.
Wanted more.
But always got less.
Wasn't much to you.
I guess.
Was it love that was true?
Is it mine?
Is it yours?
When it's just me and you.
Never more.
Never less.
Nothing else should matter.
Are you mine?
Am I yours?
Other half of your soul.
To have and to hold.
Never more.
Never less.
I am yours.
Are you mine?
When you let it all go.
Isn't mine.
Isn't yours.
When there is..
nothing
left to unfold
Nothing more.
Nothing less.
You will be mine.
Forever more.
Never less.
Am I who you want.
Am I who you need.
Never more.
Never less.
Nothing else said.
Nothing else needs to be said.
Song Written By Jennifer Cook
Scrawb
September 2nd 2018
Scrawb, Is a one man band leading the way. He does work some odd friends/guest that help out here and there. Sadly, he'll never be able to do live shows because of that fact he is one. His music is on the Industrial Metal side. There's a rough feel to his music. Scrawb III is his latest album release on Spotify. "Satanarchrist" has a evil Marilyn Madson feel to it. He keeps his own original feel though, the song with the rough brutal sound. His voice has a memorizing sound like he's whispering personally in your ear. His artist influences show through with Type O Negative, Nine inch nails, skinny puppy, and Killing Joke. You can hear it in his music. So far I like Scrawb III the best for sure. As I listened to 1-3, I could hear real growth in his music and writing. Even though I really like "Hilarious" from Scrawb I, it has a grudge but different feel to it. Just a bit about Brian, and his musical project. Since he asked me to do his music as one of my first review on my Music Guru Magazine website. Request grated because I did not mind doing it. In a short time I enjoyed getting to know him. Great guy from Ireland. He is a awesome Musician! Thank you so much for having me do your review. It's short and sweet but to the point.
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
1.Tell me a bit about your music of Scrawb?
Answer:1. Scrawb started 2013, I'd been playing in bands since 1996 when I was a teenager but human drama,fall outs, disagreements over the years made me realize that I had to start focusing on something I loved, that was true to me and I guess sustainable, somewhat permanent and mine. I grew up on rock/ metal in the 90s so I guess that's where the Scrawb sound comes from, if there is such a thing. I use a lot of old school cheap equipment, I refuse to use pro tools because the classic heavy bands e.g, The Beatles, Zeppelin, Black Sabbath didn't have that kind of gear back then yet their music still kills, every time. I go with what I've got and what i know, as I do this I think the sounds, the songs that I make, hopefully evolve and improve. Scrawb is one guy between 4 walls, I drink a bit, loosen up, drop my inhibitions and just go with what i feel on the day, I come from a love of heavy ugly music but with grooves kind of background, that's where the "Scrawb sound " comes from, I think...
2.What is your favorite song of yours to play? What is the story behind the song?
Answer:2. Whatever I'm writing right now is my favorite song to play.....but, OK, new Scrawb EP coming out on Halloween 2018 which I'm still working on right now, my fave song so far right now is the only heavy one on the EP, gonna be called "Pretty Ugly". The drums were recorded and played by my good friend Mr. Brendan Carthy at The Orchard Recording Studio here in Wexford. This guy kills drums!!! Its been killing my arms to play with the last few days and i cant get enough of it!
3.There are many bands that influenced me! I have a great love for music. What is some of your influences, and why?
Answer:3. Influences? puh! I only wish i could play like the artists i listen to! but hey, isn't that the goal? Jesus, lets see, OK, fuck it I'm just gonna name 3 cause if not we will be here all night, so, Strapping Young Lad/Devin Townsend, Nine Inch Nails and........Prince. I've been listening to these 3 bands/guys since I was a kid, it's not only their music, songs and albums that get me, its their individual focus, drive and seemingly unquenchable work ethic and need to keep on exploring/expressing music. I mean these guys literally make music like their lives depends on it; to me, that's an artist, so these guys, definitely my strongest influences.
4.What is your all-time favorite song from another band? Why and what is the best memory of it?
Answer:4. Gonna go with Strapping Young Lad - Detox, i heard it first when I was 16, I'm turning 40 now, still my favorite song ever! listen to it, you'll either get or....get out! :)
5.If you had another musician/band ask you for advice, what would you tell them?
Answer:5.Bands.....musicians......nope, fuck it, look at me n where I am, I'm not the guy to be asking advice! I don't know, just, keep at it, for you, anything else that comes with it is just a bonus.
6.There’s a lot of views on people using their cellphones at a concert. What’s your opinion on this?
Answer:6. Hmmm, good question! OK, I don't have a smartphone, and I never will, I don't like em, i think they are a tad unnecessary, totally in your own face and not much fun to share really are they? I'm all for communication but....really? nah, no thanks! as the ways to communicate expand, actual communication decays..... I'm a big fan of A Perfect Circle and apparently they've put a ban on cell/smart phones at their gigs, OK I agree with them....to an extent. I would recommend, OK wanna get up nice and close to the band? fine, no cell phones.you either want to get up close and really feel it or you don't. After that, further away from the stage I say fuck it, let em in, no matter how big the venue, bands are nothing without fans/exposure and these days most humans/fans come attached to cellphones, its simple, make the fans choose how close they really wanna get.....
7.There’s been a lot of buzz of when hearing through articles and at concerts. That’s people aren’t going to live events and concerts. Have you seen a difference touring, and what is your feelings on the issue?
Answer:7. Muhuhuhuh.... I don't play live so who am i to say.... :) But hey,cmon, look around you, there's still tons of bands playing live everywhere, festivals just keep getting bigger and bigger these days, hell i still go to lots of gigs... and I'm in Ireland! Bah, anyone who tells you live music is dying, is lying! It's just them that ain't getting out much!
8. Is there anything else you would like to add or wanna say to the people who will be reading this?
Answer:8. Gawd....awkward again! we did it and now you're leaving! hahaha! nah,but honestly ill say this, i will keep on doing this, its what i truly love, its what i just need to do, til either it kills me or something else does. if people love it, cool, if they don't, cool too, I'm just doing what feels right and when it feels wrong, I'm gone, end of........or am i just full of shit like the rest of the world....
Thank you so much Music Guru, to you and anyone who has ever shown any interest in what Scrawb does, Halloween 2018 - Unfit for Human Consumption Part 2.....www.facebook.com/scrawb
Scrawb Interviews
SCRAWB "Buried Where You Stand" (Official Video)
John Harris Music
January 23rd 2019
John Harris just released the album "Dichotomy" on January 18th 2019. John is straight out of my favorite city of Syracuse, NY. Another one of my local musicians from NY state! I must first thank John for letting me listen to his music before the release date!! I got to say what I thought ahead of time! Frankly it was hard to wait to review this album till after the release!! There is a 2 disc release with disc 1 being Light,Live,Life acoustic and disc 2 Darkness,Decay, Death Electric. Honestly I don't know if I can pick a favorite song of this album! I love how he has a song called For You and another For Me! Two completely different styles to show just what he was thinking of you and how he felt about himself!! By listening to this album it sounds like a great healing process of his yin yang of his life at the time. I am thankful that he shared this with us. It's amazing to see a musician using music to get through light and darkness of it all. Breakthrough I liked a lot because it's catchy, but also reminds me what I myself is going through! I hear ya bud this magazine was one of my breakthroughs!! One of my faves was Love Again, because of the melody and theme of it! John! I hope you find love again!! Every song has it's own theme that connects the whole album, and it's own sound! If you wanna hear something completely different than the usual try this album out!!
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Links
FaceBook page: https://www.facebook.com/pg/musicofjohnharris
Website: https://www.musicofjohnharris.com
Bandcamp: https://johnharrismusic.bandcamp.com/
John Harris Interview
1. First tell me more about John Harris Music, and how it all came about?
Answer: I've been playing in bands since I was 14, and a couple of years ago I was in a band that broke up for health reasons right before a really important show...Opening for A Toy Called God, Trapt, and Smile Empty Soul on their acoustic tour. Instead of backing out of the show, I decided to do it solo. I did a half hour set, and afterwards, Chris from Trapt, Sean from Smile Empty Soul, and Patrick from A Toy Called God all came up to me and told me that I should push forward solo. It was the confidence booster that I needed, these were all bands that I had been listening to for years. The band that broke up was working on an album, so I re-recorded the album (which was recorded in various haunted locations throughout central New York with a portable recording set up) and released it as WAKE the DEAD, an acoustic, dark-folk album. A few months after that release, my wife of almost 10 years left me, and I ended up attempting suicide which resulted in my hospitalization. In the hospital, I started writing my second album A New 10, which followed in the same vein as WAKE the DEAD. Once I started recovering, and enjoying my life more, I decided to take on the most challenging project that I could: DICHOTOMY. A dual-disc album with all of the same material acoustic and full-band electric, pushing me to play every instrument in a hard, alt-rock line-up.
2. What music or bands that influenced you to play?
Answer: My two favorite bands, hands down, are Blue October and Staind. My voice is very similar to Aaron's in Staind, but the raw emotion that Blue October brings to the table really influences me artistically.
3. What is it like to be a Musician in NY state, and to play in Syracuse , NY? What could of music scene can you find around here?
Answer:In support of A New 10, I played all over the northeast, and I spent 10 years playing in Buffalo. I'll tell you that there isn't another scene like Syracuse. It's such a huge, little scene. Everyone knows each other, everyone is supportive, and everyone is friendly, generally speaking. Staying out of the politics is easy, and making friends is even easier. I've found a such a warm, welcoming environment in Syracuse that emphasizes, on such a core level, creativity and personality. This is a city that pushed individuality while surrounding artists in a sense of community...Every time I play in Syracuse, it's like the entire city is giving me a giant hug. I never truly felt "at home" in Buffalo, but in Syracuse, I feel like it's my city and everyone is my family.
4. What is your story behind the music of your latest album?
Answer: DICHOTOMY focuses on the duality of the individual. Even the heaviest, hardest, most bad-ass metal head needs a nice acoustic ballad every once in a while. We aren't just one thing. We really aren't even just two things, but we exist in a society that is eternally polarizing, separating constantly into a binary categorization of anything and everything. The content itself is about life...It's about growth and recovery.
5. If another musician walked up to you, and asked what does it take to get started?
Answer:Start. Play. Pick up your instrument and play. Want to learn a song? Learn it. We live in a time that everything that we could ever want to learn is at our finger tips. Let your intellectual curiosity take over, and just play.
6. I hear Metal Music as a whole is a dying breed of a genres, do you agree? If you do what you think needs to be done to change that?
Answer: I don't necessarily consider myself "metal." But that is my background I guess. Music is just like any other cultural trend; there's an ebb and flow to it. If you want metal to stay alive, then keep playing it. It may not be the "flavor of the month" this month, but in a few months, it could be. Keep it alive.
7. Where is your favorite venue to play, and where are you playing next?
Answer: On Halloween 2018, I played with my band John Harris and the Otherworldly Entities (consisting of Zlatko Grozl, Shane Archer Reed, Matt Raymond, and myself) at The Palace in Syracuse. I used to go there when I was a kid. It was a bucket-list venue that I didn't realize that I'd be playing so soon. It was such a great show, and we were invited to play by the incredible Evan Bujold from Late Earth, easily one of my favorite local bands. We also played a show at Frightmare Farms in Palermo, and I had always wanted to play hunted attraction. With Frightmare Farms being the best in NY, in my opinion, it was very exciting. We're playing in Buffalo on February 24 at Buffalo Iron Works, which is another venue that I've always wanted to play. I really want to play some outdoor shows and festivals this summer.
8. What is your favorite song off the new album, and why?
Answer: It's kind of a day-to-day thing, but I guess that's assumed. What Happens Next? which is the first single off the album, has been played on radio stations all over the country, and that was just one of those songs that took minimal effort to write...It just came out. Second to that would probably be Parry, which is written in a minor harmonic and it's anger and aggression is just plain fun.
9. What would you like to say to your fans?
Answer: Thank you for everything. My fans, our fans, have been so much fun and so supportive. Every show is like a giant party with my friends every time. Whether it's a 250+ person show in Vermont, or a 25+ person show in Syracuse, it always feels like I'm surrounded by my friends.
John Harris and the Otherworldly Entities - For You (Acoustic)
Shane Archer Reed
May 31st 2019
May's Musician Spotlight is Shane Archer Reed. He is from Oneida, NY, and his resent debut release is "I Defy You, Stars". On my Facebook page, I asked if any musicians would be interested in me doing their music on this Spotlight. He graciously wanted to be added, and I was happy to do so. I'm proud to have another local addition to my website. When I looked up his personal website, I noticed he's more like a renaissance man. He also does teaching, acting and various other things. I was interested to learn more, and made him my May's spotlight. But we'll let him tell us more as I also interviewed him.
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Shane's Interview
1. Let's start with tell me a little about yourself musically now?
-My musical life has been crazy as of late and I'm loving it. The past 3 years has consisted of juggling all sorts of projects, including my upcoming 2nd album, my return to musical theatre, and helping my friends who are other artists with their projects.
2. How did you start out being a singer/songwriter?
-I was always drawn to music as a child. My father use to play his guitar and sing to me every night until he passed away. I use to have a collection of those toy guitars and pianos that played random melodies, and i use to make up words to them and sing in my old basement. As I got older I found my talent for singing through my schools choir and was constantly encouraged by my teachers to continue singing. That's when I discovered my father is where i got that talent from. After he graduated high school, he turned down a full scholarship to the Juilliard School for music, which still blows my mind. Anyway I started learning about how to approach a career in singing and was first introduced to the world of musical theatre. I performed in all of my schools musicals all through high school, mostly in large supporting roles. I also discovered a lot of amazing songwriters through the music my parents listened to. Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Paul Simon, etc. However the big moment for me was listening to Green Day's American Idiot for the first time I loved how theatrical and unafraid they were in the writing process and I immediately thought to myself that's what I want to be doing
3. What is it like to be apart of and nominated for the Syracuse Area Music awards?
- To be clear, I was nominated for their people's choice award. I was also nominated for 5 ISSA(International Singer-Songwriter Association) awards too, but did not make the finals for either. Honestly it was really cool to be nominated and recognized for my hard work, but its not the end goal. Trophies are nice to have, but the music lives forever and that's whats gonna make an impact on others.
4. Your kind of a renaissance man, what is some other things you do?
- I'm involved with a number of different projects at the moment obviously the most important being my solo project under the name Shane Archer Reed and the harbingers, but I've also joined a friend of mine named John Harris as his drummer for the band John Harris in the Otherworldly entities. We met while we were both opening for a national tour and we immediately clicked musically and personally he was looking for people to help him with a live band and I wanted to help him out and now we're riding in performing together. Are the 2017 I've also made my return to musical theater playing such roles as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, William Barfée in the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, the title role in Jekyll and Hyde, Ernst ludvig in Cabaret, Eddie Birdlace in Dogfight, and Roger Davis in RENT. I've also been freelance writing with/for other artists around my area.
5. Tell me about your music and your latest album?
- I plan to release my 2nd full length album this summer(hopefully late in July). Lately my music has taken more of a theatrical turn, partly influence by my return to musical theatre. I've been influenced by that and a lot of rock from the late 70s and early 80s lately. I've also wanted to focus a lot on storytelling so i took influence from my favorite musical storytellers like Jason Robert Brown and Billy Joel. The story for this particular album came from the end of my college years when a lot of things in my life were very toxic and I was expressing my need to eliminate all of that toxin and get my life back on track.
6. Where can we find you play?
-All of my projects and I have been playing mostly around the Syracuse NY area, but i am looking to tour again as much as possible and play as many new venues and reach new audiences everywhere.
7. What would you tell someone who wants to start playing music?
- If this is something you're truly passionate about doing, never stop working on your craft, don't be afraid to try something new, and above all, NEVER give up!!
8. Anything more you would like to add that I haven't asked?
-Hopefully you like what you hear. Be sure to keep up to date at www.shanearcherreed.com
Shane Reed
Artifact
June 18th 2019
For my next Musician Spotlight, was a request by Andrew Atkinson for his Artifact band. This started out as a solo project, but now has other members too. They are out of Wagga Wagga, Australia, and I'm happy to promote their first song release. "Unravel" is an instrumental so far, and I really like it. Interesting going from really metal throughout then adding classical instrument sounds. Thank you Andrew for bringing this to my attention, and doing the interview.
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Link:
Face Book Page-https://www.facebook.com/pg/Artifactau
Artifact Interview
1. Tell me more about Artifact?
'Artifact' is a genre-mashing progressive metal band from Wagga Wagga, Australia. Mixing complex rhythmic guitar playing with orchestral elements, virtuosic lead work and soon to be electronic, jazz and softer acoustic music.
We released our first single 'Unravel' as a two piece instrumental band, where both guitarists wrote and recorded all instruments ourselves out of my bedroom.
Since then, we have found a full band to accompany us, including a very capable vocalist who will be debuting on our very next release.
2. How did you as a musician start out?
I personally had no interest in music until choosing to study music in highschool, which is where I met one of my best friends who went on to teach me how to play guitar and further start the band 'Artifact' at the beginning of 2018. Before that I used to write silly little electronic songs that will never see the light of day.
3. Tell me more about your first song release? What is it all about?
Our first song 'Unravel' was born out of this idea we had for our debut EP to be a concept "album", diving into the struggles of living with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). 'Unravel' itself is a song conveying the state of mind right after a tragedy - being angry, confused, sad and even the feeling of disasociation we tried to convey in the bridge.
'Unravel' was an entirely collaborative effort between myself, our other guitarist, and the other founding member I mentioned earlier who unfortunately had to leave the band just weeks before 'Unravel's release.
4. When will you be releasing your first album?
I think at this stage a pretty easy guess for us would be the end of 2019 or early 2020.
At the moment we have more than enough songs on the way to create a full length album with more being written every other day. However, the general consensus of the band is to pick the best 5 or 6 songs and make a really well done EP instead of splitting our efforts too thinly and try to produce 12 songs in a similar time frame.
5. Where would we find you playing live?
Wagga Wagga! We'll definitely be starting on home territory then moving outwards as the opportunities come up!
There's a really nice little scene here, and we can't wait to get up on stage and show them who we are!
6. What bands/ musicians influence your playing?
In my case I think I definitely have to give the most credit to John Browne and Monuments! Also bands like Periphery, I built the sky, Polyphia, Erra and even Lindsay Stirling really have made a huge impact on me as a musician.
7. What's your favorite song to play?
Definitely 'Unravel'. Playing that song live with a full band is an incredible feeling!
(Although the breakdown effectively gives me carpal tunnel everytime I play it! Haha)
8. What is it like playing alone verses playing with a band?
It's a whole different experience! There's definitely pros and cons to either, but not having every decision fall on your shoulders is definitely refreshing.
9. Finally anything you'd like to add I might of not brought up?
I'd just like to thank everyone that has supported us so far, and everyone that will support us in the future.
Watching what started out as a dumb little selfish project I started with my best mate, to seeing what it has become now has just been mind-blowing.
I couldn't be more greatful to the rest of 'Artifact' who have taken my dumb little project and turned it into theirs in the best way possible, and I really can't wait to see what happens next!
EliasMusic
June 18th 2019
True story! I was on my facebook and saw a page I liked. I listened to the video, because the instrument the lyre I saw. As soon as I heard I had to review and interview his man! His music is just what I listen to when it's not metal! :) He reminds me of Wardruna and Danheim. His voice is so soothing to hear, and he can play so many instruments. I went back to find him to ask for an interview, and no where I could find him. Luckily by fate I found him again, and he was more than happy for an interview! No one meets by just chance!! Thank you so much and glad I found you!! I love the way he does each video of his by connecting all he does. Able to see every instrument he plays for the song. He does a few good covers and does his own music too! He is a must listen if you need some time on your own to collect yourself. My favorites of his is "Bones" and "Illuminates", even though I like them all!
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Link:
Facebook Page- https://www.facebook.com/musicofelias/
Interview with EliasMusic
1. Tell me more about yourself and your music!?
I'm from Georgia(country) I'm self-taught musician, my journey as a player started at the age of 16 when I first pick up a guitar, but passion and love for music always followed me from my early childhood days.
2. How did you start out making music?
There was a days when I was listening to more spiritual music and I felt that this was the genre where I wanted to be. I started experimenting with more heavy music, I wrote couple songs with elements of rock and Scandinavian folk, after some time I turned to more soft sounding and here is where I'm now.
3. How many different instruments do you play, and which one is favorite to play?
I’m playing Guitar, medieval harp(Anglo Saxon Lyre), bowed lyre(Jouhikko), Irish Bouzouki, bamboo flutes, percussion and little bit piano. I guess my favorite is Anglo Saxon lyre, although it has a very limited range, yet you can still be amazed at what this instrument can deliver with its beautiful soft sound.
4. Which song do you like to play the most?
Behind every song is story that is very close and relevant to me. It brings memories and vibes of the time it was written so it’s very hard to pick up one.
5. What is your latest project you ate doing?
I didn’t work on too many projects in the past so yea I guess there is not a single one.
6. What music and band influenced you the most?
There is a huge lap between these artists but I think Wardruna(Einar Selvik) and Damien Rice influenced me a lot. Wardruna taught me how deep and strong can be roots of folk sound while Damien’s music taught me to speak through music.
7. Where can people find you playing live or else where?
Currently, I'm recording my first mini album called Born Again I’m all in that work.
8. What is the song “Bones" all about?
“Bones” is a song about the place where you belong spiritually when familiar places that used to be part of your everyday life feels out of the box.
9. Is there anything you'd like to add that I haven't?
I want to say thank you for the work you are doing. I see deep passion inside you and I want to wish you good luck!
EliasMusic
Emma Garell
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July 2nd 2019
This July's theme is girl power, and it just happened that way! For the Musician spotlight is Emma Garell and she's a perfect example of power. Her voice in her single "Destination Anaheim" has the old rock n roll attitude I like. The tone of her video shows sexy dirt with a Joan Jett rawness. But let's get to her interview, and hear about Emma from herself!
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Links:
Press Release: https://madmimi.com/p/d5f6ae
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/emma.garell
Bandcamp: https://emmagarellmusic.bandcamp.com/releases
Emma Garell Interview
1. Tell me a little about yourself musically, Emma?
Emma Garell: Musically? Hmm. I am always thinking about music even if I am not performing or making it. I am always surrounded by musicians and other people in the industry and I am not sure I know how to "be" without it.
2. How did you get into music?
EG: I homeschooled and my mom said it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert at something...so I started at 12 years old with a music teacher at home for piano and wanted to try voice. My mom was happy to do so, she thought I was a terrible singer and that the teacher would tell me the truth. A few lessons later I was on track and started learning a variety of genres. At 14 my teacher felt I had progressed further than she could continue to help me grow. I ended up at School of Rock where my first performance was singing lead in a Black Sabbath tribute show. Ozzy hooked me. While at School of Rock I learned my way around the stage, got great stage experience and rock/music theory.
3. Who influenced you in music?
EG: It may come as a surprise, but I’d have to say right now it’s Dolly Parton even though it doesn’t sound like it. In general though; Joan Jett, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, The Pretty Reckless, and Highly Suspect.
4. What is the first song you ever did yourself?
EG: Destination Anaheim
5. When is your album being released and tell me a little about it?
EG: I don’t think I am going to go that route. I am watching a lot of other artists dropping albums and in our current consumerist lifestyle, I think singles are the way to go. We will see what a year out brings us though.
6. Do you think it's harder for a woman to make it in music now?
EG: A loaded question...I don’t know. It is definitely not harder, but there is still a lack of females in rock music and I think they should be invited and praised. But, because I am a female...big fish in a little pond...I have lots of advantages. Sex appeal is an unfortunate advantage of being a girl in this field.
7. What is your new song "Destination Anaheim" about?
EG: It is simply about people idolizing musicians. Destination Anaheim is about the destiny of a rock star. A place I don’t want to end up, Amy Winehouse for example. We idolize this lifestyle that can become very quickly overwhelming.
8. What genre would you say your music is? You sound much more different than others! Such a good thing girl!
EG: Just Rock n’ Roll. Thank you!
9. Where can we find you live?
EG: As for upcoming shows, our full band will be performing in Richmond, VA (aka RVA) at
--The Dark Room 7/10,
--The Camel 7/16 with Coagulate from Florida, other locals Tel and Kill the Druid
--Hardywood, RVA 7/26 with Deep Vinyl Groove
Unplugged at a few private parties as well as Crossroads 8/1 with Tony Farris on guitar and a special appearance at Richmondstock at The Burnout Pit on 8/17-18 where I will be trying something new with my producer, Rich Stine...honoring Woodstock of course. We hope to start stretching out towards TN (where our guitarist, Camden, will be at college) in the Fall but you never know what opportunities we may land on still in the RVA area.
10. Anything you'd like to add I haven't?
EG: Thank you and rock on!
Emma Garell - Destination Anaheim
Cait Devin
October 15th 2019
I first met this sweet girl at her then band album release party August 10th 2019 at the Lost Horizon. I knew then I had to do a separate article for Cait Devin herself! The best part was listening to her play guitar, and her abilities during each riff! Cait is a song writer and does very good covers of various bands. She has done "Zombie" from The Cranberries and Halestorm's "I am The Fire" to name a couple! Lizzy Hale from Halestorm herself was pretty impressed. She also has her own original songs like her acoustic version of "Cold Blooded". Which I find pretty cool! At a young age of 18 and was a SAMMY's People's Choice finalist in New York at age 16 before having a record out. She is for now based out of New York state! But a lot is ahead for Cait Devin, and wish her luck! I can see great things coming for her, and I can say I knew her when.
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Links
FaceBook Page:https://www.facebook.com/pg/CaitDevinMusic
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thecaitdevin
Twitter: www.twitter.com/thecaitdevin
Website: www.caitdevin.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzqaMfzOiiEVeECUD0YiYmQ
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1suWIA67jSuHrz7qCUgZyL…
Cait Devin Interview
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself?
I enjoy guitar playing, collaborating with other artists, songwriting, and eating food. Pretty much all I do LOL.
2. What was your first memory when you wanted to be apart of music?
Its funny because I don't really have one in specific. I've just always wanted to do it. I would just listen to music from a very young age and wish that I could sing and perform as well. Eventually from just casually songwriting and singing in my room around 8 or 9, my mom decided to get me into vocal training when I was 10 after finding I was so passionate about it. At this time I started doing talent shows and recitals.
3. Who influenced you the most? So be it a band or someone personal in your life!
So many different artists of different genres inspire me. I've always been into the contemporary singer songwriter style, which shows through in my music as I'm really an indie songwriter at heart. However, guitarists like Nita Strauss inspire me to no end. Guitar is a big part of who I am as an artist because I want to be a player as well. Her style really influenced me this past year.
4. What is your favorite song to play?
Zombie will always be a classic and a favorite. It depends on my mood, really. My originals really hit home for me though.
5. Tell me more about your future plans with breaking out on your own?
It's a big jump. I'm moving all the way to Seattle. This plan started after my collaboration with youtuber Jared Dines. He gave me a lot of advice regarding my career and it was an honor to get to work with someone who has so much experience and success in the industry. He said he plans to work with me more, and I plan to network with a bunch of different artists. Networking and songwriting are my two main priorities this coming year.
6. You are a very good guitar player! How did you get your start?
First off, thanks, because I'm always shocked when people say that. The guitar idols I look up to are beasts on guitar so I guess I don't consider myself to be good. I started playing the acoustic when I was 14, but just recently around two years ago I started with the lead guitar (electric.) I'm glad I did.
7. Being part of the music industry, you'll have influence on others and other girls. What mark would you like to make on them?
I just want them to know, and not just girls, everyone, that you will get a million "no's" before you get a "yes." Just keep going and someone will see you. Haters will hate but at the end of the day after a lot of hard work, there will be those that see immense potential too and those are the ones you need to focus on. That's the message I want to get across. 8
8. What was always your biggest dream to do?
Travel the world and play my music.
9. Is there anything you'd like to add that I didn't?
To everyone who supports me here in NY, my friends and family, and those who have come out to see me, thank you so much. I will be back and plan to stay in touch.
Blaming Hollywood
Musician Members
Hollywood Raven- Vocals
Hollywood Butcher- Guitars
October 25th 2019
I have watched maybe a year or so Brandon Wheeler shape and form musically and personally ever better! Now his partner in life and music Mandee Wheeler has formed a musical collaboration. Their single out now Treehouse is a song about suicide and the moments leading up to it. Sadly a lot of us has in one shape or form dealt with this reality. I personally have thought about it and love someone who has tried. Dark important message but great music to back it! Amazing guitar as always Brandon bud!! Mystic and breathtaking vocals from Mandee! Great job girl! All around impacting song, incredible music and can't wait to hear more from you guys!
Thank you so much for asking me to do an article of the beginning of your great endeavor!
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Links
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/blaminghollywood/
Interview with Brandon Wheeler!
MG Tell me a little about yourself?
BW I’m a passionate person. Love making music. It’s like painting a picture for your ears.
MG Where did you start out musically?
BW during lunch in high school. While everyone was hacky sacking and playing football, one day I brought my amp and guitar and started jamming in the hall way leading into the cafeteria. I didn’t care who was watching, I was just jamming out escaping the mundane peer pressure and bullies. When I looked up the entire hall way was filled with students and teachers just staring at me and clapping haha. If I had to guess there was at least 60 kids watching me jam. At that point I was like, I think I want play in a band.
MG What artist or bands influenced you?
BW The Offspring, Neil Diamond, Korn, Michael Jackson, Pearl Jam, The Monkees,
Metallica, Stevie Ray Vaughn, CKY and Manson.
MG What is your favorite memory so far you have in music?
Bw I have a lot of memories, my favorite was working with my producer Jeff Tomei this past year and hearing my wife sing Treehouse the first time.
MG Tell me about your newest song and what is it about?
BW The newest song titled Treehouse is about suicide and the struggles we deal with leading up to that alternative.
MG What's next for you after your new song?
BW we would love to play a couple of select cities in the U.S so we can meet our fans.
MG If you had a chance to tour with anyone dead or alive who would it be?
BW Korn
MG What is it like being a musician in central ny?
BW I wouldn’t know. I’m a musician that’s all I know.
MG Is there anything you would like to add that I haven't in the interview?
BW Treehouse national release and video premiere is October 25, 2019 Blaming Hollywood is Brandon and Mandee wheeler. Treehouse was produced by Blaming Hollywood and Jeff Tomei works include Smashing Pumkins, Jerry Cantrell, Queen of the Damned.
And Silence Remains
October 26th 2019
As Silence Remains is more a project than a one man band. His music is a sound of classic metal with lyrics of the soul! Each song brings back a distant memory of metal once was. His first and latest album was released September 18th 2019. Brings you that very thing with the songs "In Sorrow", "The Never" and "Far Beyond" a solid guitar riffs, powerful lyrics and clean vocals. But we'll let the man Timo Wimmer himself to say more in his interview!!
Written by Jennifer Cook/Phoenix Ravenmoon
Links
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/andsilenceremains/
Website: https://www.andsilenceremains.com/
Interview With And Silence Remain's Tino Wimmer
1. Tell me a bit about your band?
. . . AND SILENCE REMAINS is more a project than a band. It is the product of passion, consistency and a good proportion of willpower.
The idea to create 'AND SILENCE REMAINS' came out of my disapproval of the music industry and where it's heading. I watched stupid singing shows on TV, listened to meaningless and soulless music on radios and watched people having great success with cheap artificial rubbish.
The only genre that resist the trend of commercialisation is Heavy Metal. And even that only to an certain extend. Most producers edit the heart and soul out of recordings to pursue perfection. I wanted to go against that trend. I wanted to go back to the roots. I wanted to bring real music back to music fans where there is passion, expression, anger and impurities alike. I wanted a concept Album that follows a story line. I wanted lyrical qualities and story telling abilities. I wanted fast paced music, capturing melodies, angry drums and a raw voice.
I wanted to know whether I was capable to deliver such an Album.
With that in my mind I accepted the Challenge, a challenge that would take about 10 years. In those 10 years I built up a little studio at home, developed recording and mixing skills, learned how to sing, studied poetry and wrote 10 songs.
I produced and recorded the whole Album. I played every Instrument myself and performed the vocals. Everything is 100% Timo Wimmer. And who can say that about himself? :)
2. When was your newest album released and tell us more about it?
The album was released September 2019. Brand spanking new! The Idea was to created a concept Album that takes the listeners on a journey through dark stories, dark practices, dark beliefs and darker facts. Some songs are based on legends, some are based on old practices and beliefs, some are pure fantasy and some are cold facts. Yet, all songs are connected by a common theme. The music had to be of similar structure, it had to be dark and raw and yet melodic. A sound that would reflect the dark ages and the overall feel from that time. Ideally the Album creates curiosity and leads the listener to read up on lyrics and the stories around them. Most 'AND SILENCE REMAINS' songs have a footnote on the title (only on the CD version) that provides reference to the inspirational origin.
3. The song "Te Deum", what is it all about?
In the booklet of the album 'TE DEUM' has the footnote (Massacre at Béziers )
This song is based on the crusades in France in the 13th century. The commander of the crusaders faced the task of separating the heathens from the Christians. He commanded to kill them all as god will know his own. The modern version is the well known 'KILL'EM ALL, GOD WILL KNOW HIS OWN'.
Te Deum itself can be translated as: Dear god and Te Deum laudamus, as the first line on the verses can be translated as: Dear god, we praise. Read up on this! Quite interesting stuff!! :)
*And first up, be assure that there is no fanatic intention of any kind in any of my songs. Those Songs based on true events are purely informative and should be consider as a lesson in history rather then an attempt to create radicalism of any kind. In fact I see myself as an advocate of freedom and equality and rather promote those virtues.
I chose to write 'TE DEUM' for several reasons.
1. I like history. And the more you read about history of any kind and of any timeline, It is rather intimidating of what mankind is capable of and it is our duty to ensure that history is not being forgotten.
2. Due to the overall feel I wanted to crate with the album, I chose a the centuries 12 to 18 and central Europe as the location. The crusades could not be ignored as it was a big campaign in that area.
3. When I read into the subject, I felt a connection with nowadays. There is a dangerous level of dislike between religions in our century and I wanted to remind people that History repeats itself if we don't learn from the past. I leave it with that.
4. Being Hard'N'Heavy it wouldn't be right to sing about the birds and the bees.
5. On of the mates early bands where called Te Deum, and I always thought it was a cool name.
All my lyrics are written from the point of view of the subject. There is no exception and that is my style of writing and my choice of poetry.
However, I am aware that this kind of writing can easily lead to misinterpretation. I want to underline that none of the songs lyrics reflect my personal opinion.*
4. What is your favorite song to play off the new album?
My personal favorite Song is 'RAISING THE DEAD'.
'RAISING THE DEAD' was inspire by a book with the same title, written by Andy Dougan. It is based on the resurrection attempts in the 18th century. Back then, doctors and scholar were attempting to bring back the dead using electricity. Mostly convicted criminals after they had been sent to death. Fast and mean with a killer chorus. The whole song comes together beautifully. The guitars, the melodies and the lyrics. An overall fantastic song that even gets my kids humming the chorus.
5. When someone writes a song sometimes there's much thought into it! What do you do personally? Is it more poetry and your soul put into?
Poetry mostly. It was of upmost importance to deliver quality lyrics. I wanted to tell interesting stories and take listeners to a different place in a different time. I wanted to offer an escape from reality and the daily routine. I have given myself a good year to study poetry with the sole purpose to write interesting and good sounding lyrics. I hope it paid off! I let you be the judge of that!
6. What bands influenced you?
It would have been the German Heavy Metal Band 'RUNNING WILD' above all.
Other important bands that played a major role are, BLIND GUARDIAN, IRON MAIDEN, HELLOWEEN, METALLICA and GUNS'N'ROSES
7. How would you really describe your music? It sounds more classic metal!
I call it 'PURE MELODIC METAL'. And you are right. The Pure stands for classic metal, edgy and raw as the genre was born. Melodic as I think I use more melodies in my guitar play than the classic Heavy Metal (I thank Helloween for that).
8. Anything more you'd like to add that I didn't?
Sure,
I think it worth mentioning that I am rather ordinary. I've never worn make up to make me look evil, never spilled fake blood on Stage, don't dress up or bite heads of bats. When I am on stage I roll up with jeans and my leather jacket, sometimes with my denim jacket that survived that 90' Heavy Metal boom with all the patches on them. That is it. I love gardening and love drinking black tea with milk. I am married with two kids an live in Perth Suburbia. I guess what I am trying to say is, 'AND SILENCE REMAINS' is all about the music, the passion and the love of Hard'N'Heavy. On that note I would like to thank you for the opportunity to get my story and my music out there.
Thanks
Timo Wimmer
PS: here are the titles with the inspirational footnotes. Googel them, it is intruiging! :)
1. Götterdämmerung
2. In Sorrow (CCC.1857)
3. Tales from the Crypt (Tales from the crypt TV show)
4. Te Deum (Massacre at Béziers)
5. Raising the dead (Andy Dougans Raising the dead)
6. The Never
7. Far Beyond (CCC1030)
8. See no evil (military recruitment)
9. The devil within (The legend of Faust)
10.When darkness falls (revelation 12/13)
