Meaghan Renee Hartin Flies on the Wall

Issue 2 - February 2016 - atszine.com
Colt Slee
“A good glass of whiskey always
sets the mood for me.”
Meaghan Renee Hartin
“I always want to teach music”
Flies on the Wall
A musican’s perspective
PLUS
Gear Page
Music Reviews
Top 5
All’s Well, That Ends Wells
In the Words of...
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Music plays an important part in life. It makes us cry and laugh. It relieves
stress and gets us motivated. Music conveys more emotion than the written or spoken word. Music contains our passion, our lifeblood. Without it, life would be colorless and bland; music colors our existence, it binds us together, makes us human.
That is what brings us here. AROUND THE SOUND; like all art, it is better
when shared, better with a community. At Around the Sound we want to build that,
to bring together musicians, bands, venues, studios, local businesses, and the fans.
Start a conversation, and share the music that makes us whole.
Our
goal at AROUND THE SOUND is to highlight what we’re
all doing. True art doesn’t happen in a vacuum; we do it together. The
bands making their joyful noise, venues hosting them, people behind
the scenes, businesses that help make it all flow, and the reason we all
do it, the fans. AROUND THE SOUND wants bring it all together.
There are many stories we want to bring you. Stories to inspire. Stories to
serve as a warning. Stories that bring together this musical community. We all play
a part. We all matter. Around the Sound wants to bring that to light. Make it one
story, not fragmented across the landscape.
AROUND THE SOUND is the voice of the musical community. We want to
educate, inspire, motivate. We want this musical community to survive, thrive and
grow. Because when it does, we all benefit. We all share in the glow, and makes us
stronger.
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local recording studio guide
Shop local
Lansing, MI
Elm Street Recording - www.lansingrecording.com
Think Live Music - thinklivemusic.com
Attraction Records - www.attractionrecords.com/contact
Westing Media Studio - www.facebook.com/WestingMediaStudio
Jackson, MI
Sonic Landscapes - www.soniclandscapesstudio.com
Blue Harmony - www.blueharmonyrecording.com
Ann Arbor, MI
Big Sky - www.bigskyrecording.com
Solid Sound - www.solidsound.net
NightWing Productions - www.nightwingpro.com
Alley Records - www.alleyrecords.com
Backseat Producstions - www.backseatproductions.com
Kalamazoo, MI
Broadside Productions -www.broadsideproductions.com
Overneath Creative Collective - overneath.com/recording-studio
East Lansing, MI
Glenn Brown Productions - www.gbp-studio-acoustics.com
Dimondale, MI
Epiphany Sound - http://epiphany-sound.com
Grand Ledge, MI
The Fledge - www.grandledgefledge.com/studio
Dewitt, MI
Jimmy D Tee’s
L.A. Productions - www.dewittmusic.com
St. Johns, MI
33 1/3 Street Sound - www.facebook.com/33-13-Street-Sound-and-Video
Screen printing and embroidery
Facebook.com/Jimmydtees
Photo of Elm Street Recording
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Colt Slee
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Colt Slee
Colt is 29 years young, who is a pretty spectacularly loud acoustic-electric, solo punk/southern
rock, one man band.
His parents gave him the name. Colt Slee. He can say he
was named after the gun, Colt 45. Not the horse, football team
or beer.
He is a very laid back yet very interesting guy to talk to. His music is pure energy and emotion. He
writes his songs from personal experiences which makes them very good lyrically, every time you hear one
of his songs you can easily imagine the story in your mind and feel the power behind it.
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ATS: What other bands would you relate your sound to
when describing your band?
Colt: I’ve been told Lucero, Against Me, Chuck Ragan, The
Gaslight Anthem. I can’t complain about those comparisons.
ATS: When did you start what you are currently doing now?
Colt: Two years ago I recorded a collection of acoustic songs
so I’d have something to show people and started playing
solo as my band was dismantling. I enjoy it and have been
tweaking the setup, trying to sound more dynamic using
an electric guitar and bass drum. Something I can use to
open for a full band without just sounding like the ‘acoustic
opener’.
ATS: What inspired you to make music?
Colt: Writing/performing solo just came naturally after my
last band ended. I’m an introvert and I was comfortable
writing and playing on my own schedule as I felt compelled.
ATS: Major influences?
Colt: I listen to a lot of different genres of music and am
equally influenced by film. Narrowing it down a little bit my
favorite things are: Punk, Folk, Delta Blues, Horror movies,
movies that carry a heavy amount of suspense and dread...
when the bad guy wins...that kind of stuff.
People that influence me.. my son, anyone who isn’t afraid
to be themselves, Amanda Palmer, Cormac McCarthy, Paul
Thomas Anderson.
ATS: What, if any, are the general themes or topics for most
of your songs?
Colt: I tend to write about people I know and situations I
can find personal parallels to.
ATS: Whats your music-making process?
Colt: Normally I work out a melody and write the music
and lyrics together. A song will always go through a number
of changes until it feels right and all the pieces fall into place
naturally.
Late night coffee/writing sessions are the most productive.
ATS: What are your rehearsals generally like and where
(generally) do you practice?
Colt: Living in an apartment can be tough when you’re trying to practice, especially using an amp and bass drum. Rehearsals are normally pretty quiet and strictly acoustic.
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ATS: Do you ever play any covers?
Colt: I only play originals. Anytime I want to tackle a
cover song I get distracted with writing something else.
There are plenty of songs I’d like to play stripped down
versions of, so hopefully I can focus on a few sometime.
ATS: How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
Colt: Just have to keep chugging along. Sometimes mistakes deserve a pause and a laugh, but staying on track
is the best way to handle it.
ATS: Do you get nervous before a performance?
Colt: Depends on the room and how long it’s been since
the last show. It starts feeling comfortable after knocking the dust off through the first song or so. I involuntarily I close my eyes a lot, that helps.
ATS: Pre-show rituals?
Colt: A good glass of whiskey always sets the mood for
me.
ATS: What are your fondest musical memories?
Colt: There was a house show in Kent, Ohio that was
probably the craziest and fondest memory. A lot of
things went wrong logistically and an equal amount of
things went right drunkenly. We were playing as a full
band at that point and the PA burned out at the beginning of our set. A bottle of scotch was, in my mind, my
way around needing a PA. Had to keep my throat moist.
Kent, Ohio knows how to party.
ATS: What are your favorite venues and why?
Colt: Mac’s Bar in Lansing will always be home. I’ve
played a lot of really great shows there over the years.
More than anything, I enjoy house shows. Either playing in a living room, disgusting basement, attic, kitchen,
anything. They’re the most fun. Just a bunch of friends
hanging out without a schedule, you never know what’s
going to happen, how drunk everyones going to get.
Those are the best venues.
ATS: Which musicians do you admire? Why?
Colt: Laura Jane Grace is a certified badass. She pulls the
‘role model pedestal figure’ down to an equal level with
her fans and shows that we can all be the same amount
of fucked up, and that’s okay. Listening to,
supporting and having friends to share your feelings
with, educating yourself, standing up for an individual’s
right for total social acceptance, being who you want to
be.. She’s a big deal.
ATS: What would you say has been your biggest challenge as a band?
Colt: I would say big challenges to deal with are changes within the bands I’ve been in. People move on with
life, school, just the normal growth that can be expected with most high school/young adult bands. I’ve just
come to terms with the fact that this is what I want and
what I want to do, so I’m doing it solo.
ATS: What is your ultimate goal?
Colt: Just to get out and play as much as possible. I want
to share my music with people and hope they can connect to it on some level. If not, I don’t care, I fucking love
doing it.
ATS: What advice would you give to beginners who are
nervous?
Colt: Take a few shots, close your eyes, and sing like no
one’s listening. If you’re too young for shots, then go
outside and shake it off Taylor Swift style.
ATS: How do you balance your music with other obligations in life?
Colt: Other obligations have definitely been at the forefront for a couple years now, I have a two-year-old son.
Some priorities can be moved around, some can’t. You
just have to take advantage of your free time and find an
equation that works.
ATS: Any last words?
Colt: Beef, it’s what’s for dinner.
From the interview alone, it’s quite easy to see
how interesting Colt can be. Go see one of his shows.
Listen to his songs. Understand his songs. Maybe just
maybe, you’ll get a better idea of who you are.
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coltslee.bandcamp.com
facebook.com/coltsleemusic
and also on Spotify at – Colt Slee
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Lansing, MI
local venue reference
guide
The Unicorn - www.facebook.com/pages/The-Unicorn-Tavern/179899392036604
The Loft - theloftlansing.com
Mac’s Bar - www.macsbar.com
The Avenue - www.facebook.com/avenuecafe2021
The Green Door - greendoorlive.com
The Aztec Room - www.facebook.com/theaztecroom
Midtown Brewing Company - www.facebook.com/DowntownLansingMiidtownBrewing
Moriarty’s Pub - moriartyspublansing.com
The Exchange - lansingexchange.com
Kalamazoo, MI
Kalamazoo State Theatre - www.kazoostate.com
Bell’s Eccentric Cafe - bellsbeer.com/eccentric-cafe
Rupert’s Brew House - www.rupertsbrewhouse.com
Shakespeares - shakespearespub.com
Old Dog Tavern - www.olddogtavern.com
The Red Room- www.facebook.com/TheRedRoomRocks
Jackson, MI
The Foundry - www.facebook.com/The-Foundry-140963962738925
The RoadHouse - www.roadhousegrillandbar.com
Weatherwax Hall (JSO) - www.facebook.com/weatherwaxhall
Michigan Theatre - www.michigantheatre.org
Jackson Coffee Company - jacksoncoffeeco.com
American Trash Studios - www.facebook.com/Americantrashstudios
Bifferhaus Brewing Company - www.facebook.com/Bifferhausbrewingcompany
Sandhill Crane Vineyards - www.sandhillcranevineyards.com
The Fourth Wall - www.facebook.com/www.thefourthwall.org
Hillsdale, MI
The Underground - www.facebook.com/broadstreetunderground
Hanover, MI
Hanover’s Backwoods Bar & Grill - www.facebook.com/Hanovers-Backwoods-Bar-Grill-263447517109006
Charlotte, MI
Windwalker Arts -www.windwalkerunderground.com
Eaton Pub & Grille - eatonpub.com
Brooklyn, MI
Artist Review
Great Lakes Feather Company
“Photography”
Release date: June 20th, 2015
For fans of: Depeche Mode, Gorillaz, I Monster,
Linkin Park
Craving a diverse and eclectic alt-rock/electronic album unlike any album before? Hailing from
Owosso, MI, Great Lakes Feather Company delivers
a very exciting and fresh batch of songs. Multi-instrumentalist Miles Winchester helms the creative
force behind the songs in “Photography” and successfully covers multiple genres throughout the 10
track album. “Dystopia” opens instantly with a synthpop-style keyboard bit and an uptempo drum beat
that sets a late 80’s atmosphere. Then the vocals and
chorus come in and bring a fresh 2015 vibe. Miles
takes advantage of his complete creative freedom as
a DIY artist right off the bat.
The very next track, “Myla Winter” kicks
off with an electronic beat and hip hop style vocals
with tasteful effects layered on top, and features very
catchy lyrics. Following that, “Wiz Kid” features
heartfelt spoken word poetry backed by melancholic
and heavy instruments that reflect many emotions
through varying levels of intensity. More songs that
feature heavier instrumentation are “Void” and “A
Loveable Yet Punchable Face”, the latter of which actually touches on heavy metal with melodic solos.
For a more fun and upbeat vibe as featured in “Dystopia”, “November” might be the happiest song musically with clapping, fun instruments and a melody
that sticks in your head.
For a more hip hop and electronic style in
the mix, “I Told You So”, “High”, “Love Song 9” and
“Waterfalls” are your songs. That, however, isn’t to be
dismissive of those songs, because each one of them
tells a story. Particularly, “Love Song 9” features the
most emotional lyrics that give me chills. It also features a wonderful feminine touch with guest vocals
by Emily Noel whose singing harmonizes very well
with Miles’ vocal effects and adds a deeper meaning
to the lyrics. Overall, Miles demonstrates a unique
and emotional approach to his genre bending music
that will surprise you at every turn.
Currently, Miles is working on a musical
called “Soteria, Preservation of the Monster” with
no tentative release date as of yet.
greatlakesfeathercompany.bandcamp.com
facebook.com/greatlakesfeathercompany
youtube.com/user/GreatLakesFeatherCo
Shady’s Tap Room - www.shadystaproom.com
Battle Creek, MI
Written by: Zack Allen
Band: Faultered Step
The Music Factory - musicfactorybc.com
The WareHouse - www.facebook.com/979WARE
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Shot of the Month
Kevin Wolff - The Novella
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Meaghan Renee Hartin
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Meaghan Renee Hartin
Meaghan’s fingers have been delicately stroking keys of a piano since 1985. The entrancing sounds
hidden behind the wooden veil of the striking cords,
orchestrated by her guiding digits gliding over the
array of white and black keys, has always enchanted
Meaghan’s ears. Her love for the piano grew into a
passion; not only for playing, but for sharing. To her
music is not just a past time. It is an important, vital
role in developing cognitive skills.
Playing an instrument assists the brain in
developing its various parts: motor skills, memory,
rhythm, and creativity just to name a few. For fifteen
years Meaghan dedicated copious amounts of time
to the piano, and music. By 2000 she had transferred
between a half dozen or so music teachers, exposing
her to a vast variety of techniques, knowledge, and
experience which she undoubtedly sponged up.
These years provided a solid foundation and unquestionable expertise for Meaghan.
The knowledge and skill she has amassed
over the years is astounding, her talent even more
so. It is clear that Meaghan shines through music. It
is and has been her life. It hasn’t always been sunshine either. Like us all, Meaghan stumbled on to a
rocky road and for some time fell away from music,
her sunshine. Those who know the dark, know that
hopelessness, a sense of loss, and uncertainty rule
that realm. It’s always darkest before the dawn.
During this lull in her life, Meaghan had a miraculous encounter with a friend. Her friend simply
reopened Meaghan’s lantern in the form of a question. f you could do anything, what would you do?
The response, Play the piano. From that moment her
sunshine returned, her lantern was rekindled.
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Knowing that the path of a pianist is somewhat limited to weddings, funerals, and teaching. She chose the
latter.
Meaghan has had a serious concern for school
cutting musical curricular programs, and exemplified
this by pursuing her dream. This helped render the birth
of Jackson Piano Teacher, her own piano/music lessons
practice in 2005. She adamantly believes that a person
doesn’t need to be good at an instrument, merely interested, intrigued, and dedicated to music in its’ rawest
form. Just pick an instrument, the music will pick you.
She believes music theory keeps her profession alive.
Her teaching is truly rewarded when students/musicians well versed in music theory come together and
jam, sharing their ability with one another.
She teaches music theory to all her students.
Although, the extensiveness varies between individual students it is her core belief that everyone is at least
familiar with it. Her selfless love of sharing musical
wealth or getting others to play the piano - and not just
play, but truly understand the instrument - is evident.
Her goal for every student is to improve from their
foundation, and one day out play her.
Over the years Meaghan has attained an expanding range of pupils from young to old. She has even
had the privilege of working with the autistic and deaf!
She is a “piano saint”, passing her knowledge and experience to everyone she has had the pleasure of tutoring,
never turning away an eager student in need. She is a
purveyor of confidence, lighting up with joy when her
students succeed and is willing to take any measure to
ensure so.
Typically, an average lesson is 30 mins long and
is broken up into sections; covering previous work assignments (homework), learning new pieces or techniques, and - time permitting - goof off time. Goof off
time allows the student to be comfortable not only with
the instrument, but with her as well. When Meaghan
takes on a student, she takes on a new family member,
no matter the age. She wants all her students to achieve
the same level of mastery as herself and urges them to
go beyond.
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She understands that everyone who walks
through her door do not all necessarily have the same
motives. Some people merely want to learn a song or
two, while others seek to learn music theory or pursue a college degree in music or the piano. She has
learned a lot about teaching from her accumulated
experiences with various pupils and the obstacles she
helped each one overcome. She has developed and
encompassed many different concepts and ideas in
regards to how a person learns. Meaghan has incorporated these with enthusiasm, allowing her to teach
all kinds of people with various obstacles protruding
in their path to musical growth.
She is adaptive and knowledgable, allowing her to address each student with the best suited
learning tactic that would best fit the individual. As
the best teacher is always a student, she’s constantly
incorporating new ideas or concepts to help her students succeed. Meaghan is an unwavering advocate
for chasing your dreams, and never letting an obstacle prevent you from doing just that. She portrays this
trait through her own teaching; discovering ways to
manage and handle those unforeseen events or blockades and conquering them.
Life is unpredictable, and ever changing. Now
a mother, Meaghan has become a little more calculated in balancing music and family. Teaching has
been the scale mediating balance between the two.
Although the obvious responsibilities of parenthood
can cause one to to put ones goals and dreams in
check, she looks forward to the time where she can
indulge in public performances once again. Her own
personal dream is the ability to go on tour and enhance her music to a professional level.
She has had many different musical influences throughout her life: Frédéric Chopin, Bob Marley,
old school jazz, Muddy Waters, Stevie Wonder, Elton
John, and the Beatles are just a few feathers to the
plume. She compiled all of those influences and made
the connection with music theory. If a piece of music
is on paper she can, and probably will, play it. Most
recently Meghan played “Nothing Else Matters” by
Metallica. Her vetted knowledge of music was a key
component to combining the different sections of the
song allowing her to create a piano piece. With her
talent and knowledge she
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has become a musical guru, able to create and play
anything.
Whatever the future may hold for her, it is
definite teaching music will always be prevalent.
Her allotted time for teaching in a traditional sense
of lessons or sessions remains uncertain, but it is her
hope to be able to share her own growth with another. Whether this comes in the form of mentoring the
next great pianist, or the opportunity to start playing
professionally one thing is clear; Meaghan is destined
to leave her fingerprint on the piano, and each of the
lives that she touches.
Take pictures. Paint. Have some kind of art.
- Meaghan Renee Hartin
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Tech Talk
Written by: Michael Benson
It can add an octave above and below the original
note. The polyphonic tracking on it is solid, but
there is a very noticeable delay before the octaves
blend in. Pitch-shifting aficionados will not be
impressed by the octave function, but the latency is not noticeable in high-reverb mixes. It’s a
nice bonus feature, but it’s not a replacement for
a dedicated octave pedal. Overall, the Walrus Audio Descent is
a great option for people who want something
more versatile than a traditional reverb pedal
without spending a small fortune.
When it comes to reverb, there tends to
be two general approaches. There is the “set it
and forget it” mentality that relies on either reverb in amps or simple pedals, and there are also
those who need a dozen different types of reverb
and literally hundreds of presets. With the Descent, Walrus Audio has tried to create a pedal
for those in the middle. It offers plenty of options
without being overwhelming.
The Descent has three assignable presets
and three reverb modes: hall, shimmer, and reverse. The hall is a standard reverb sound. Even
with how tweakable this pedal is, the hall sound
always seems to be a bit sterile. To be fair, this is
a problem faced by most digital reverbs. The reverse, on the other hand, sounds great, but it’s an
effect that will be difficult to use in most genres.
It’s still fun to play with, though. The shimmer mode on the Descent is where
this pedal really shines. When the mix is brought
up enough, it can sound as though there’s a small
angelic chorus hiding inside this small pedal.
This is made possible by the fact that the Descent
also functions as an octave pedal. 22
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Top Five
Mike Gensel (Cyk Cylinder)
Skills/Talents you wish you had
- Playing Guitar - I never learned how to play guitar
and by the time I realized I wanted to, I became too
busy. I think it would help in song writing, but honestly I like noodling with music.
- Acting - I would love to be able to take on a characters role and act. I am horrible at it, truthfully. Just
watch one of Cyk Cylinder’s videos on YouTube, one
of the ones that we are promoting a show.
- Drawing/Painting - I am okay at doodling, but I
would love to be able to draw like a comic book artist.
- Photography - I love photography. I am a hobbyist
when it comes right down to it, but would love to be
good at it. Looking at life as a photographer must be
pretty interesting.
- Cooking - Once again, I am okay at it, but the skill
of a chef would be awesome. Knowing how to combine seemingly random parts into a dish is truly an
art.
Overall I am a bit of a Jack of all Trades so I know
how to do a lot of things, but just enough to be dangerous in most of them. Maybe I’ll get to them at
some point.
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Artist Review
Tomb of Teeth - “Savage Art”
Release date: August 20th, 2015
For fans of: Crowbar, Acid King, Eyehategod, Type
O Negative
Storming in from Kalamazoo, MI, Tomb of
Teeth’s “Savage Art” wastes no time before pounding
your ears with heavy guitars and grooving drums
followed by low, ripping screams by vocalist Todd
Hurd. It’s immediate groove settles in and it never
lets up. “Her Jaw Unhinged To Swallow Us Whole”
serves as the opener and clocks in as the shortest
song on the album, yet definitely sets the tone for
the next half hour. Without much hesitation afterwards, “Bone Rake” starts and feels like a giant. It’s
gruesome and in your face with a slow tempo revisited later in “Forever a Widow”. “Landfill Harlot” continues the tradition of low and heavy, but it’s a little
faster now, featuring double bass drum playing by
Will Higgins that is a rare but cherished occurrence
on the album.
A music video for “Her Jaw” will be debuting very
soon on Tomb of Teeth’s YouTube page, and they will
be entering the studio this summer to record their
sophomore album.
tombofteeth.bandcamp.com/album/savage-art
facebook.com/tombofteeth
Guitarist Matt Faske has his shining moment
in “Heaven’s Burning” which features the only guitar
solo on the album, but it leaves you begging for more
as it goes right back into the riff seemingly too soon.
Following that, the highlight of “Open Wounds Are
More Beautiful” has to be the lyrics, which read as
if they were taken out of cult classic horror movie.
Lastly, the album ends with “The Great Pestilence”, a
seven minute onslaught of deep cutting doom metal that feels like literal doom hailing down on you
and it is the perfect ending to this album. It starts
with just the drums, as Will casts a haunting feeling
that this is the end. Matt’s guitar tone really cuts into
you like a knife as if it was the final blow to finish
the job, and Todd screaming the lyrics “Dead, pray
for death” just adds to the terror in the end. “Savage
Art” is exactly as their Facebook page suggests; it is
unapologetically loud, unabashedly grimy, and unrelentlessly disgusting.
Written by: Zack Allen
Band: Faultered Step
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All’s Well, That Ends Wells
Alright y’all, best place to start is usually the
beginning, so introductions. I am Markus and you
are not. You are obviously all the cool kids. Who
else would be awesome enough to lend their whispering eye (totally on purpose) to this column other than someone who is clearly a fellow black sheep.
For those of you who don’t know me, though I live
in New York City, I am a fellow Michigander, born,
and raised in good ‘ole Prison City.
As a promising young chap, my parents told
me I could be anything, so instead I became a musician. Long and short of where it went from there
was it turned out, I could lick a mean geetar. I kid,
I’m like 20% talent, 80% hair, but anyway. So it was
off to a life of debauchery and chaos. Many sleepless nights from being dressed in an Easter Bunny costume, making love to an inflatable dolphin,
while ripping rails of cocaine off of a midget strippers left ass cheek (the right one is for chumps), in
front of my grandmother. That’s what rockstars do
right? It’s not time consuming writing, recording,
and touring. This is all we really do is the fun stuff.
Ok, parts of that may not be true, but I only have
700 words and you have stuff to do, so let’s move on.
I made some noise and whipped my dreads around
in a few venues and festivals in Michigan back in
the day in Twitch, Hollow Drive, and Frequency 54
before my career took my music out of The Murder
Mitten. Made music a few other places, but it all led
me to my brothers here in Queens in Eve To Adam.
So there’s me in a nutshell for all the newcomers.
For all of you, who already have had to deal with
me, thank you so much for the continued support.
I am a huge music lover and will forever
remain a fan. And have always had loyalty to the
local scene. There were a lot of musicians before me
that guided me through the years like Vinnie from
Sponge, Andy P from Throttle Body, Tim from
from Wrench, Jason from Kung Fu Diesel, Tony
Lewis, Dave and Elmer Bradley, Craig Hendershot.
Man the list goes on and on. And I feel it is important for me to be there in the same way. So I
try to lend my support and involvement wherever I
can to help out. So when the guys at ATS asked me
write some stuff, I was totally in.
Then I had to figure out what the hell to write
about. I reflected, in between several guitar masturbation sessions (gotta get the blood flowin’) and
came up with one thing that always stood out to
me in all the guitar magazines. After some back
and forth with the staff, came up with an advice
column fashioned after Revolver’s “Ask Vinnie
Paul” column, was always my favorite. I figured,
what the hell, lets get weird and make this entertaining. So this is what I want you to do. Interact
with me. Become part of this. Write to me, talk to
me, whisper sweet nothings into my inbox, and lets
pop these tops off. Get. Weird. Hit me up with any
sort of questions, whether it be about music, touring, recording, life on the road, meeting rockstars,
why your wife left you, why your kids hate vegetables, why your drummer keeps sleeping with all
your girlfriends (clearly a bass player submission),
or how to make Vancouver Lasagna Burton C Belle
style in the means streets of Chicago!
I want it all. Message me on my facebook
page facebook.com/MarkusMusicPage with your
submissions and I will do my best to entertain you
weirdos with something good. Be sure to like the
ATS page and share with your friends, cause sharing is caring people (unless it’s stds, then you keep
that shit to yourself). In closing, don’t ever playing
leap frog with a unicorn, and kids, never forget
your raincoat, cause that protects both of you. Until next time, hugs, and kisses on all of your pink
parts! PEACE!
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Start a fire,
Start a war,
Stand up for what you believe in.
~Markus Wells
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late
night
grub
Artist Review
Chey Halliwill - “For You”
Release date: December 2015
If you’re looking for a great restaurant in
or around Lansing, MI, Theios is the place. Theios has a great menu featuring all day breakfast,
and who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner, especially without any clean up! The entire menu
is reasonably priced making it a great stop for
everyone from, broke college kids to broke musicians. The staff is very friendly and make sure
you are taken care of. If you are ever in the area,
stop here for a bite. Theios is open 24/7 making
it a great place to get away or to hangout.
For fans of: Pete Yorn, Regina Spektor, Dustin Kensrue
Chey Halliwill is a solo acoustic singer/songwriter from Jackson, MI and to put it simply - she’s
good. Her lyrics are relatable, her voice carries oceans
of emotions, and the songs just capture your imagination as they rattle around your head.
Toys for Tots
Chey’s latest release is a single called “For You”.
It’s a simple track - her guitar, her voice and a little
splash of percussion. The soul in her voice betrays her
age. She sounds like someone who has been around
the world several times over. Her lyrics are very personal and deep. The listener can feel her emotions
dripping through each word. Her playing feels effortless, letting the music carry her thoughts and emotions
through the song.
Chey has other songs to offer on her SoundCloud page. A simple, guitar driven “Empty Cup” and
country tinged “Summertime” with an accompanying
video on her YouTube page. She’s hosted open mic
nights at The Roadhouse in Jackson, MI and will be
playing around the area. You’ll want to see her live.
Over the holidays The Underground put
on their first Toys for Tots event. Trenchtown
played and rocked the house down. For anyone
that isn’t familiar with this band, Trenchtown
plays one show a year and decided to do Toys for
Tots and it couldn’t have been a larger success.
The event hauled in three washer machine sized
boxes overflowing with toys and over $1,000
in cash donations. The Underground wants to
make this an annual thing because who doesn’t
love helping those in need? Coupled with the
ability to put on an awesome concert at the same
time it is sure to be a success for years to come.
facebook.com/cheyhalliwill
soundcloud.com/cheyhalliwill
Source: Facebook
Written by: Kevin Irish
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Written by: Tom Converse
Band: Table for Three
Flies on the Wall
A musician’s perpective - show review
Twas a cold night in January. Zeb, Paul, and I
(Table for Three) are assembled outside the closed venue with various other musicians (from) From Here, 86
the Evil, Hyporium, and The Novella. We share stories
and experiences as we patiently wait for load in. Eager
to get it on at the night shift at the Foundry. The Foundry’s night of awesome.
The back door swings open and out steps Brian..
The guy is quite possibly the most polite door man I’ve
met. Which is rare! In my experiences the doorman is
usually some big rude baffoon with a two digit IQ who
takes his job entirely too seriously. It’s a surprise to find
such a welcoming role at his position. He recognizes us
from our show there months ago and holds the door as
the bands load in mountainous loads of gear.
After a few minutes of scampering past one
another loading in every kit, cab, and head. JB makes
a booming announcement for bands to step up to the
dance floor. JB is the sound guy for the night. He is a
character and probably a bear. (Or part bear maybe?)
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Regardless, the man is confident when assembling us and explaining the nights do and don’ts. The
guy is experienced and knows how these things go. This
was a packed setlist. 5 bands in one short night required
us to be on our “A” game with the time we had to setup, sound check, play, packup, and bail. Jackson natives
“From Here” were first to set the night off.
From Here is one of my personal favorites from
the area. They are a band in an adolescent stage with
huge potential. Their songs are original and creative
with nasty guitar work, wailing vocals, and tight bass
lines. TF3 and From Here have shared the stage before.
We had a few go arounds together at American Trash
Studios. This was the band’s first “stage show” however. Playing through a system is whole new animal. The
band played a couple flakey songs at first but adjusted
mid-set and closed the night strong. I admired their
ability to adapt so quickly. Their problems seemingly
stem from their lack of a drummer. If you are a drummer and reading this: Take the initiative of seeking them
out and jamming.
They are a group of real good dudes.
We were next. We got ourselves tuned, leveled up with JB, and sipped
on some courage. JB takes the stage for our introduction and gets us some
love. The crowd chants T-F-3 and it’s show time. We plow out our three “drop
D” songs first. These are our oldest songs and a different from the new tuning
we use. Paul is our distraction as Zeb and I tuned up. Paul lays down a nasty 90 second drum solo. Real nasty like. The man has serious skills and is a
spectacle to watch. We coast through our last five songs and wrap it up. It was
apparent immediately that we had played one of our better shows just then.
Zeb even moved and got into it on stage which is a big deal for us because his
nerves usually freeze him solid. Getting better all the time.
Next to take the stage was 86 the Evil, another Jackson group. The
band starts the show with an excerpt from Boondock Saints. The brothers’
prayer from the courtroom scene at the end. (You know the one.) With the
blast of the guns, 86 comes on hard. The drummer pounds through the whole
set. The band has great presence. Clearly the guys were experienced. I think
Johnny is in more bands right now than you have fingers and thumbs. The
guys played an awesome set mixed with some pretty gnarly covers as well.
Check these guys out If you see them on a bill near you!
It is getting later now. The Novella takes the stage. The band has their
image together and is yet another Jackson native band! It was brought to my
attention that this was also their first gig with a new guitarist. Would have
fooled me. The band was tight on all fronts and put together a great set. I prefered their original music over their cover choices but the band reminded me
of the late 90s early 2000s sub-grunge genre. The band seems to be picking up
steam. With the new acquisition of a touring RV and spring-time based tours
wsg Hyporium right around the block. This band has their work cut out for
them. I could see radio time in the near distant future.
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Last but not least, Hyporium was next to swing
the ole’ club. The self proclaimed Party Metal band is
one of the most energetic acts I’ve seen. With the slogan “Fuck Shit Up” it’s no stretch of the imagination
that this band is as intense and fun as hell. The frontman Kyler does a great job at his role. He is a madman
and visually appealing to watch on stage. The band as
a whole is extremely talented. I often catch myself in a
daze watching their lead guitarist shred. Probably one
of the most talented guitarists around based on the
couple times I’ve seen them. The band tours extensively. I highly recommend checking these guys out. You
won’t be disappointed with their live set. FSU!
All in all, I feel like this was a show Jackson
needed. The scene is expanding and evolving monthly.
With and more and more people are getting involved
all the time. Do yourself and the people involved a favor a see a couple local shows this month. If you see any
of these bands at a pub or venue near you, check them
out. This is the most fun us musicians have. I will speak
for everyone who played that night and bid thanks to
all of you who showed us love. Till next time... Cheers!
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Artist Review
It Lies Within - “Paramount”
Release Date: January 8, 2016
For Fans Of: We Came as Romans, A Day to Remember,
Memphis May Fire
Bursting out of Flint, MI, It Lies WIthin have
quickly established themselves in the music scene.
Their latest release, “Paramount”, only solidifies their
place. With a home on the venerable Victory Records,
they certainly mean business. It Lies Within is made up
of Zachary Scott on vocals, Matthew Groshart and Kyle
Dameron on guitars, Erik McKay on bass and vocals,
and Kamron Mead on drums. It is 11 tracks of tough,
brutal but yet melodic hardcore. The balance of gruff
screams and high range singing, the keyboards to fill
out the chugging and shredding solos, and the relentless
drums give “Paramount” the energy to carry the listener
along without tiring.
It Lies Within pride themselves on their insane
live shows, and by listening you can just picture it. You
can feel the energy from each track pour through your
speakers, begging you to dance or headbang or whatever
your style may be.
Their first track from the album is “Ecdysis”. The
title of the track refers to an insect or snake shedding its
skin, and it sets the tone for the album. It is one of the
heavier tracks, more screaming than singing, but serves
as an excellent primer for what is in store. The listener can shed any expectations, and emerge clean, ready
to continue the journey It Lies Within has in store for
them. They also made a video for this track, showcasing
their high energy stage antics. But even more recommended, see them live. You won’t regret it.
facebook.com/itlieswithin
Written by: Kevin Irish
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/Reaction1Photography
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In The Words
of...
By Shawn Elizabeth
Root Doctor
“Michigan Roads”
Before you hear the lyrics to “Michigan Roads” by Lansing blues machine Root Doctor, you have
to be in the right frame of mind. You have to put yourself in the back seat of the old truck which the band
just about burned the wheels off, traveling the state. So there you are, in the back of the truck, amused at
the music of the back-fire, every time the clutch gets played! You’re staring out the old window, watching
the MI miles roll by, and what do you do? Well, if you’re Freddie Cunningham, you write a sweet tune!
And that’s just what Freddie did. This one’s for YOU!
Around the Sound fell in love with the song even before we heard it, after the awesome adventure
in nostalgia which Freddie took us on, as he warmly recalled those times, when the band wasn’t sure if
that old truck was really going to make it all the way to the next town. We thought, before we talked to
Freddie and Marge (manager), that the song was definitely going to be about the pot holes. But, as it turns
out, they fooled us! This one is all about the Michigan People...that’s right...YOU.
Root Doctor is known around the state for their SOUL. Well, we dare say they remember you for
yours too. When we asked Freddie what the coolest thing about the song was, he spoke of their affection
for the fans in each town, who are their family while they are there, and how much it meant to Root Doctor
to have the chance to connect with each town a bit and give them a soul hug...Root Doctor style...with a
groove! Michigan Roads is a groove indeed...
Check out the lyrics to Michigan Roads and scream real loud and stuff, when they get to YOUR
town. Because apparently, they’re carrying you in their funky souls, down every last Michigan Road. Oh
yeah, and you’re going to LOVE the footage to this song! As a special treat, Root Doctor includes some
great shots of the band and some of their favorite MI towns in this video. Who knows, you may even be in
it!
Catch Root Doctor LIVE in action and tell them how sweet their song is in person and tell them
Around the Sound sent you! For more information, visit the band’s site at the link below. Rock on, Michiganders! Hope all your Michigan Roads are smooth!
facebook.com/RootDoctorBand
Members: Freddie Cunningham (lead vocals), James Williams (bass guitar & vocals) Mike Skory (Hammond, keyboards & vocals), Bill Malone (guitar & vocals), and Bobby Gardner (drums)
Genre: Blues / Soul / Jazz / Motown/funk
Hometown: Lansing, MI.
rootdoctorband.com
Five more hours to West Branch,
Six to Kalamazoo.
I’ve been driving all day long, trying to get to you.
You Know I’m trying, trying baby
Driving up and down these Michigan roads…. yeah
You Know I’m trying, trying baby
Driving up and down these Michigan roads, yeah
Oh, ah. This old truck is leaking oil,
Tires are almost flat.
I don’t really really, really know if we‘re ever going to make it back
I’ve been driving all night long, trying to get back home to you, oh yeah, baby.
I’ve been driving baby, driving up and down these Michigan roads.
Looky here.
Two nights in Detroit City, such a nice crowd to play,
Following up the next two, down to Saginaw bay,
I’ve been driving all day long, I been trying to get to you, baby.
You know I’m driving baby, driving up and down these Michigan roads.
Oooh yeah!
This old truck is leakin’ oil, the tires is almost flat.
I don’t really really, really know if we‘re ever going to make it back.
I’ve been driving all night long, baby. Trying to get home to you, Yeah.
Been driving baby, driving up and down these Michigan roads, yeah.
I packed up in Grand Rapids, on my way back home.
One more hour baby, and it won’t be very long.
I’ve been driving all night long, trying to get back home to you.
Oh yeah.
You know I’m driving, baby. Driving up and down these Michigan roads.
Oooh yeah.
Looky here.
We going to Detroit, Kalamazoo. We going down to Battle Creek and Grand Rapids too.
Muskegon and Cadillac, Petoskey and Traverse City. Mackinac City. Grayling. Clare. Mt. Pleasant.
Goin home. Driving baby, up and down these Michigan roads.
Is your road in there?
Is your name in there?
Is your city in there?
I’m driving home baby.. oh ho
Driving all night.
Making it right.
Oooh yeah.
Baby I’m home
Michigan Roads
Written by Freddie Cunningham
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Music submission
In a band and want us to hear about it?
[email protected]
Feature stories
Want your band/venue in the zine?
[email protected]
Feedback
Think we are doing a good job? Think we are doing a bad job?
Let us know.
[email protected]
Mike Redding - [email protected]
Shane Pitmon - [email protected]
Kevin Irish - [email protected]
Michael Benson - [email protected]
Shawn Elizabeth - [email protected]
Markus Wells - [email protected]
Zack Allen - [email protected]
Tom Converse - [email protected]
All photos taken by
Reaction One Photography
unless otherwise noted
Any comments or concerns can also be sent to:
[email protected]
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