The Haves are a charismatic band in Columbia, SC. Part Chili Peppers, part Beasties, part Rage Against the Machine - they not only rock you out, they're a positive influence on the local scene. There have been many musicians who have inspired change and The Haves could be in that number. I was lucky to have Mike Young agree to an interview. I want to start by thanking him for taking time to share with the readers.
I love the name, "The Haves" and your symbol. How did you come up with them?
The original phrase comes from the novel The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha where his sidekick Sancho quotes his grandmother saying, ‘in this world there are only two types of people- the haves and the have nots.’ As for the reason for naming the band ‘The Haves’ we have two main themes- social critique and organizing. A major influence comes from Paulo Freire's book Pedagogy of the Oppressed to highlight the origins of social inequalities that stem from structural issues. I attempt to use a multivocal approach where I take on the persona of both the oppressed and the oppressor to demonstrate how the ideologies function and also how both qualities can take form within the same individual, differing scales and dimensions of oppression. For there to be a haves there must be a have-not, otherwise there would be no basis for comparison to create your identity in relation to another. So, I ask how did domination become so naturalized? The logo is intentionally male, white, and western (with a class element- the tie) to bring in patriarchy and feminism with a global reach by using a recognizable symbol which possesses meaning and power that isn't explicit. So also, how do we learn to be the way we are and think the thoughts we think? I critique institutions, discourses, etc. then finally I hope to generate motivation and desire to make positive change that incorporates the well being of everyone involved- anarchist principles: equality, no hierarchies. Even our black and white color scheme is related to anarcho-pacifism, with the occasional use of red- syndicalism, voluntary organization/association/action/cooperation. So, awareness of the mechanisms, peaceful non-participation in damaging activities (being and setting the example) with the hopes that structural changes will result. I focus primarily on greed and free-market ideology and business practices since they are the main engine that drives how people come into relation with one another and how the ideologies can become adopted, co-opted, and rejected.
How did the band meet and how long have you been together?
Luke and Will met in graduate school at USC and Matt was looking for people to jam with and start a band. They played together for over a year and put an ad out on craigslist for a singer. I had only been in South Carolina a couple of months (I moved here to go to graduate school at USC) and looked for rock bands that needed singers. January of 2012 I tried out, and they invited me back.
How would you describe your sound?
We have heard people make incredible comparisons about our sound and I like knowing that we can bring out a little bit of everyone’s background in music. We have heard people say they hear from Gang of Four to Yes. But Luke always has great adjectives to describe sounds so I will try his style of description- spacey, quacky, ranty, crunchy, funky, groovy, and tasty.
Other than the didgeridoo, what musical instruments do you play?
I tinker with a few instruments- harmonica, djembe, maraca, megaphone, tongue drum, conch shell, and the rain stick. I am trying to work as many of these into the band as I possibly can, trying to keep it weird ya know what I mean?
Who writes your songs?
We have an interesting writing formula. We all contribute ideas and input, but Luke and Matt take the lead. Typically Luke will have an intricate bass line in his head and Matt will tame it and give it a bit of a groove. We try things out and see what sounds best- Will tries a beat and if we hear something else we’ll pitch it, I write patterns to the riffs before I write the lyrics, if the patterns aren’t fitting the guys will tell me to try something else. We all listen to each other and respond well to each other’s ideas.
Would you tell us about the song "Whisper in Your Ear"?
Whisper in Your Ear is about hegemony (the active participation in one’s own subordination, the adoption of the values of your oppressor). In this song I explain the ‘get ahead’ mentality and how it is meant and measured by its exclusivity. I first take on the voice of a guide instructing an individual that for them to succeed they must convince those below/after them that they need to stay in their position, but it must be voluntary ‘to play this game you gotta program who’s behind in line to think that its just their fault for not getting ahead’. Then I patronize and scoff the individual for believing the guidance with the lines ‘was it a surprise to find yourself behind? You thought these rules were meant to include you? You’ve been fooled, back in line, victim’s fault’ and that is what is whispered in ears.
Who are your musical influences?
I’ll get the obvious out of the way up front- Rage Against the Machine is by far one of our favorite bands and it shows in our style, but we have many more influences that you can pick up on if you listen. We like incorporating elements of different genres from progressive hard rock to metal to funk to reggae. Other bands that have spiced up our musical soup- Primus, Rush, Deftones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Tool, among others.
How do you channel such amazing energy on stage?
First of all, thank you. I’ve seen a lot of bands perform and I always enjoy the most energetic singers and I would like to be what I want to see. It seems to get the crowd excited and it’s a lot of fun for me.
What would The Haves consider being a success?
I would say seeing that we made a positive impact. Whether that impact is through our music and people connect with it and love to rock out with us, or through the community building we are trying to encourage through the local music scene, or having people question their reality and inspiring people to make a difference/change in their own lives.
What can we expect from the band for 2015?
We will be recording three new songs (Obey, Bottoms Up, Petals in the Wind) in the next couple of months and will be releasing them in a couple different ways. Two of them (Obey, Bottoms Up + Charlie Chaplin was an Anarchist) will be on a compilation album we are collaboratively putting together with other local bands in Columbia (Stardog, Emory Lane, and Cigar Box Opera). The local music compilation will feature 3 songs by each of the bands and we will have them available at our next show- May 9th at Art Bar. We will all be playing that night, it’s going to be a great show. Hope to see you there, as well as you, dear reader.
What word of advice would you like to give the readers?
Work.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
INTERVIEW WITH ANTHONY "TINY" BIUSO
I mostly promote local music but I'm stoked when I can include other musicians I really love. I'm excited to share an interview with one of my favorite drummers. I became a fan when he played with the legendary, punk band, TSOL I became an even bigger fan after getting to know him through social media and finding out what a generous and incredible person he is. Google him and you will see he has an unbelievable career. Most recently he toured with Doyle and is doing shows with Rick Thorne. He's a marvelous drummer, teacher and humanitarian. I appreciate him taking the time out of his busy schedule to answer a few questions for me.
How old were you when you began to play drums and what was your first influence?
When I first started playing I was about 10 years old and I was really influenced early on by bands like KISS and Billy Joel
Are you self taught or did you study somewhere?
I was self taught for many years but then wound up taking drums in school. In 1989 I went to Musicians Institute in Hollywood California. That's what brought me out here initially.
What other instruments do you play?
I only play the drums. I literally suck at everything else.
Who are your inspirations?
My inspiration right now comes from all types of things but musically I'm inspired by rock and hip-hop and funk and metal and of course punk rock. I really enjoy listening to new music but most of it sucks so I'm still listening to the stuff from the 70s and the 80s Ha ha ha
What was the first band you ever played with?
The first band I ever played with was a band called Project Object. As far as playing out live goes anyway. We were a political Nuwave/satire/punk rock band. We played a lot of seedy clubs in New York City.. I was 17 and the band was about 30 years old. My dad would let me play with them and had to accompany me to gigs because most of them were bars or clubs where I had to be 18 or 21 years old.
Is there a particular band you've played with that is your favorite?
I would have to say that Doyle was my favorite band to play with and is my favorite band to play with. It was just a great vibe with the guys and Doyle of course is just a fantastic dude who really enjoyed playing!!
I read where you saved Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein's tour. How did that come about?
Well his manager called me up and said can you get on the plane tonight and play the first show Friday and I said sure ha ha that's it. I had one rehearsal.
When did you begin teaching drums and why did you decide to teach?
I've been teaching drums on and off for about 10 years or more and I just really enjoy giving people the gift of music. I especially like influencing kids and having fun with them. It's great to see them react.
I know you're working on the movie, The Bridge. Can you give us any spoilers about the movie?
No no spoilers but it's just a movie about self struggle, self sabotage and a small town hero doing good and figuring out life. His own music is the great passion of his and it takes him a while to figure it out. There's gonna be a lot of amazing people in the band like Joe Elliott of Def Leppard, Ricky Warwick of Blackstar Riders, Al Jorgensen of Ministry, Joey Santiago of the Pixies. and Sin Quirin of Ministry. I play a drummer in the movie imagine that ha ha Ha you can help us find the movie and get some great perks here at
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-bridge-the-movie
Your philanthropy is inspirational. What started your campaign for the Burbank Animal Shelter? Are there any other charitable campaigns you are working with?
Well what started that for me was obviously my love for animals. I really truly do love animals. I love taking care of animals and Black Friday just got me so bummed out a few years back. Watching all these people running around all over town waiting in line spending money they probably didn't have just to buy a television and save a couple hundred bucks. So I decided take up a collection for my local animal shelter which is the Burbank animal shelter. They work with many wonderful rescue groups and do everything and anything they can to get these animals adopted out of the shelter. I've been going there for over 20 years.
What can your fans look forward to in 2015?
Well hopefully lots more music. Lots of playing live and for me, I certainly hope lots of travel because it's what I really love to do. Drumming has fortunately taken me to 35 countries and almost every state here in America. It honestly has become one of the main inspirations for my playing.
If you had a super power what would it be and why?
The power to heal. Healing hands. That would be amazing.
Thanks again to Tiny for the interview. Make sure to check out his website, www.anthonytinybiuso.com, to see when and where you can catch him playing, get merchandise, including his awesome "BOOM" shirts and even sign up for drum lessons.
How old were you when you began to play drums and what was your first influence?
When I first started playing I was about 10 years old and I was really influenced early on by bands like KISS and Billy Joel
Are you self taught or did you study somewhere?
I was self taught for many years but then wound up taking drums in school. In 1989 I went to Musicians Institute in Hollywood California. That's what brought me out here initially.
What other instruments do you play?
I only play the drums. I literally suck at everything else.
Who are your inspirations?
My inspiration right now comes from all types of things but musically I'm inspired by rock and hip-hop and funk and metal and of course punk rock. I really enjoy listening to new music but most of it sucks so I'm still listening to the stuff from the 70s and the 80s Ha ha ha
What was the first band you ever played with?
The first band I ever played with was a band called Project Object. As far as playing out live goes anyway. We were a political Nuwave/satire/punk rock band. We played a lot of seedy clubs in New York City.. I was 17 and the band was about 30 years old. My dad would let me play with them and had to accompany me to gigs because most of them were bars or clubs where I had to be 18 or 21 years old.
Is there a particular band you've played with that is your favorite?
I would have to say that Doyle was my favorite band to play with and is my favorite band to play with. It was just a great vibe with the guys and Doyle of course is just a fantastic dude who really enjoyed playing!!
I read where you saved Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein's tour. How did that come about?
Well his manager called me up and said can you get on the plane tonight and play the first show Friday and I said sure ha ha that's it. I had one rehearsal.
When did you begin teaching drums and why did you decide to teach?
I've been teaching drums on and off for about 10 years or more and I just really enjoy giving people the gift of music. I especially like influencing kids and having fun with them. It's great to see them react.
I know you're working on the movie, The Bridge. Can you give us any spoilers about the movie?
No no spoilers but it's just a movie about self struggle, self sabotage and a small town hero doing good and figuring out life. His own music is the great passion of his and it takes him a while to figure it out. There's gonna be a lot of amazing people in the band like Joe Elliott of Def Leppard, Ricky Warwick of Blackstar Riders, Al Jorgensen of Ministry, Joey Santiago of the Pixies. and Sin Quirin of Ministry. I play a drummer in the movie imagine that ha ha Ha you can help us find the movie and get some great perks here at
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-bridge-the-movie
Your philanthropy is inspirational. What started your campaign for the Burbank Animal Shelter? Are there any other charitable campaigns you are working with?
Well what started that for me was obviously my love for animals. I really truly do love animals. I love taking care of animals and Black Friday just got me so bummed out a few years back. Watching all these people running around all over town waiting in line spending money they probably didn't have just to buy a television and save a couple hundred bucks. So I decided take up a collection for my local animal shelter which is the Burbank animal shelter. They work with many wonderful rescue groups and do everything and anything they can to get these animals adopted out of the shelter. I've been going there for over 20 years.
What can your fans look forward to in 2015?
Well hopefully lots more music. Lots of playing live and for me, I certainly hope lots of travel because it's what I really love to do. Drumming has fortunately taken me to 35 countries and almost every state here in America. It honestly has become one of the main inspirations for my playing.
If you had a super power what would it be and why?
The power to heal. Healing hands. That would be amazing.
Thanks again to Tiny for the interview. Make sure to check out his website, www.anthonytinybiuso.com, to see when and where you can catch him playing, get merchandise, including his awesome "BOOM" shirts and even sign up for drum lessons.
INTERVIEW WITH ALEX ROBERTS OF COVER OF AFTERNOON
I first heard Cover of Afternoon on 4/19/14 @ Art Bar in Columbia, SC. For the most part when I go to hear a band I go in cold because I've been away from Columbia for 13 years. I don't have any preconceived notions. I didn't know that Cover of Afternoon are pretty big on the local music scene. I just know that I fell in love with them during the first song. One of those, "you had me at 'hello'" moments. When I met them later that night they were such friendly, warm people. Alex immediately agreed to do an interview for me and as you will see is such an engaging person. I hope you enjoy getting to know more about Alex and Cover of Afternoon.
Elaine: When and where did Cover of Afternoon start?
Alex: Cover of Afternoon actually started in the small town of Swansea, South Carolina... even though the band didn't form until many years later, the three of us started a friendship back in high school as musicians in Swansea High School's marching band. In 2008, Allen and I began jamming for fun. We had both been in previous bands. In fact, Allen and Reid were in a jam band together, while I was in a local act called Last Breath with John Vail, one of my best friends.
When we started jamming, it was mostly acoustic. We added a drummer, and played a show or two with him. It was sort of a funk/punk thing. The drummer didn't last, and we sort of floated around as an acoustic duo for a while, just playing for fun and focusing on being engaging and funny. Reid joined us in 2011, and changed our complete image. We became more professional, tighter, heavier, and we began writing our album.
Elaine: Where did the name come from?
Alex: The name actually came from a movie that is based on an incredibly funny television show.... Mystery Science Theater 3000. In the movie, these characters are trying to escape a villainous alien trying to destroy them. They talk about being inconspicuous and trying to sneak out... as they climb into a giant 1950's style hatchback during the day. So one of the MST3K jokesters say, "oh, great idea... let's escape under the cover of afternoon in the biggest car in the county". Loved the joke. Took "Cover of Afternoon" from that.
Elaine: How would you describe your music?
Alex: Honest. We can't describe our "type" of music, because we do so many things. We have some heavy and darker songs. We have some hopeful and almost "poppy" songs. We have some acoustic tracks. We have some piano driven rockers. We cover a lot of ground. However, our lyrics are always honest, and our music is always what we feel. There is never a "let's do this to be popular!" thing going on with us.
Elaine: Who writes your songs?
Alex: All three of us. For example... Allen will write a riff or chord progression and bring it to practice. We'll rock out to it a bit, then discuss where to take it next. Ried and myself will have equal part in that process. Another example could be me playing a piano song that I wrote, and Allen and Reid fleshing it out with awesome guitar and drum parts. We've jammed songs out for fun. Kings and Architects happened because of a jam at a practice. There's really no set way that we write parts. It's a collaborative effort from what I like to consider three talented musicians. That's what makes it so special.
Elaine: I'm really enjoying your cd, "Among the Tides", where can fans purchase your music?
Alex: Fans can pick up our album on Amazon, iTunes, CDbaby, and pretty much anywhere else music is sold digitally. You can also pick up a hard copy at one of our shows... which is what we love to see happen!
Elaine: Do you have other cd's or any planned for the future?
Alex: YES. We won't be stopping anytime soon. We have an acoustic album in the planning stages, and we're already writing material for a follow up. There's no telling where this band will head, but we've got to keep writing.
Elaine: What are some of the band's influences?
Alex: We've got too many influences to really count. Thrice. Beloved. The Foo Fighters. Dispatch. Emory. 311. However, we're also influenced by many classical composers, because we were exposed to early and often in our lives.
Elaine: You are amazing on bass! How long have you played?
Alex: I got my first bass when I was in 6th grade, thanks to John Vail. I originally wanted to be a guitar player, but he encouraged me to get a bass so we could "start a band"... since he was getting a guitar. We played our first "gig" in 7th grade. We wrote a song called "Congaree" to play as a school project... set to the tune of "Wild Thing". Not my proudest moment.
Elaine: Do you play any other instruments?
Alex: Yes. I play piano, guitar, and all forms of percussion.
Elaine: Did you have formal musical education or are you self taught?
Alex: I have a lot of formal musical education. I started piano lessons when I was five years old. I continued all the way through life until high school. I took trombone for a year (hated it). Then I was a percussionist in high school band. I made region band and all-state as a snare drummer and was part of a three-time state championship marching band. I continued my music education through to college, as I was accepted into the percussive arts program at the University of South Carolina as a music education major. That only lasted a year, because it drained me of my love of music. I still wanted to teach, so I became an elementary school teacher, which I am currently doing today for my full time gig.
Elaine: What genres of music do you enjoy playing and listening to?
Alex: I love metal. I'm a closet metal freak. I love Bewteen the Buried and Me, Protest the Hero, Meshugga, and all kinds of other stuff. I love learning fast riffs, but I'm not as good at it as I used to be.
Elaine: Where can we see you play next?
Alex: I'll be playing with Cover of Afternoon on June 20th at New Brookland Tavern with the full band, and we'll be doing another acoustic set for the Fox 102 acoustic challenge on May 6th.
Elaine: Name three bands or musicians you think everyone should listen to?
Alex: Thrice needs to be on EVERYONE's playlist. People should also check out John Vail of Vorov, (formerly of Wretched, By the Sins Fell Angels, and Ye Mighty!). I've mentioned him a couple of times in this interview, but he's truly turned into one of the greatest artists I've ever known, and is one of my biggest inspirations. Also, people should really try out Lower than Atlantis, a really cool band from the UK.
Thank you so much to Alex for taking time to answer my questions. Do yourself a favor and check Cover of Afternoon out at New Brookland Tavern on 6/20/14 and at the Fox 102 acoustic challenge on 5/6/14! Download their latest cd, "Among the Tides", or pick it up at their live show. You can also hear it blaring from my car stereo!
Elaine: When and where did Cover of Afternoon start?
Alex: Cover of Afternoon actually started in the small town of Swansea, South Carolina... even though the band didn't form until many years later, the three of us started a friendship back in high school as musicians in Swansea High School's marching band. In 2008, Allen and I began jamming for fun. We had both been in previous bands. In fact, Allen and Reid were in a jam band together, while I was in a local act called Last Breath with John Vail, one of my best friends.
When we started jamming, it was mostly acoustic. We added a drummer, and played a show or two with him. It was sort of a funk/punk thing. The drummer didn't last, and we sort of floated around as an acoustic duo for a while, just playing for fun and focusing on being engaging and funny. Reid joined us in 2011, and changed our complete image. We became more professional, tighter, heavier, and we began writing our album.
Elaine: Where did the name come from?
Alex: The name actually came from a movie that is based on an incredibly funny television show.... Mystery Science Theater 3000. In the movie, these characters are trying to escape a villainous alien trying to destroy them. They talk about being inconspicuous and trying to sneak out... as they climb into a giant 1950's style hatchback during the day. So one of the MST3K jokesters say, "oh, great idea... let's escape under the cover of afternoon in the biggest car in the county". Loved the joke. Took "Cover of Afternoon" from that.
Elaine: How would you describe your music?
Alex: Honest. We can't describe our "type" of music, because we do so many things. We have some heavy and darker songs. We have some hopeful and almost "poppy" songs. We have some acoustic tracks. We have some piano driven rockers. We cover a lot of ground. However, our lyrics are always honest, and our music is always what we feel. There is never a "let's do this to be popular!" thing going on with us.
Elaine: Who writes your songs?
Alex: All three of us. For example... Allen will write a riff or chord progression and bring it to practice. We'll rock out to it a bit, then discuss where to take it next. Ried and myself will have equal part in that process. Another example could be me playing a piano song that I wrote, and Allen and Reid fleshing it out with awesome guitar and drum parts. We've jammed songs out for fun. Kings and Architects happened because of a jam at a practice. There's really no set way that we write parts. It's a collaborative effort from what I like to consider three talented musicians. That's what makes it so special.
Elaine: I'm really enjoying your cd, "Among the Tides", where can fans purchase your music?
Alex: Fans can pick up our album on Amazon, iTunes, CDbaby, and pretty much anywhere else music is sold digitally. You can also pick up a hard copy at one of our shows... which is what we love to see happen!
Elaine: Do you have other cd's or any planned for the future?
Alex: YES. We won't be stopping anytime soon. We have an acoustic album in the planning stages, and we're already writing material for a follow up. There's no telling where this band will head, but we've got to keep writing.
Elaine: What are some of the band's influences?
Alex: We've got too many influences to really count. Thrice. Beloved. The Foo Fighters. Dispatch. Emory. 311. However, we're also influenced by many classical composers, because we were exposed to early and often in our lives.
Elaine: You are amazing on bass! How long have you played?
Alex: I got my first bass when I was in 6th grade, thanks to John Vail. I originally wanted to be a guitar player, but he encouraged me to get a bass so we could "start a band"... since he was getting a guitar. We played our first "gig" in 7th grade. We wrote a song called "Congaree" to play as a school project... set to the tune of "Wild Thing". Not my proudest moment.
Elaine: Do you play any other instruments?
Alex: Yes. I play piano, guitar, and all forms of percussion.
Elaine: Did you have formal musical education or are you self taught?
Alex: I have a lot of formal musical education. I started piano lessons when I was five years old. I continued all the way through life until high school. I took trombone for a year (hated it). Then I was a percussionist in high school band. I made region band and all-state as a snare drummer and was part of a three-time state championship marching band. I continued my music education through to college, as I was accepted into the percussive arts program at the University of South Carolina as a music education major. That only lasted a year, because it drained me of my love of music. I still wanted to teach, so I became an elementary school teacher, which I am currently doing today for my full time gig.
Elaine: What genres of music do you enjoy playing and listening to?
Alex: I love metal. I'm a closet metal freak. I love Bewteen the Buried and Me, Protest the Hero, Meshugga, and all kinds of other stuff. I love learning fast riffs, but I'm not as good at it as I used to be.
Elaine: Where can we see you play next?
Alex: I'll be playing with Cover of Afternoon on June 20th at New Brookland Tavern with the full band, and we'll be doing another acoustic set for the Fox 102 acoustic challenge on May 6th.
Elaine: Name three bands or musicians you think everyone should listen to?
Alex: Thrice needs to be on EVERYONE's playlist. People should also check out John Vail of Vorov, (formerly of Wretched, By the Sins Fell Angels, and Ye Mighty!). I've mentioned him a couple of times in this interview, but he's truly turned into one of the greatest artists I've ever known, and is one of my biggest inspirations. Also, people should really try out Lower than Atlantis, a really cool band from the UK.
Thank you so much to Alex for taking time to answer my questions. Do yourself a favor and check Cover of Afternoon out at New Brookland Tavern on 6/20/14 and at the Fox 102 acoustic challenge on 5/6/14! Download their latest cd, "Among the Tides", or pick it up at their live show. You can also hear it blaring from my car stereo!
T. C. COSTELLO 11/03/2013 RED DOOR TAVERN
When you meet T. C. Costello you can't help liking him. He is warm, friendly and laughs allot. On stage he pulls you in with his music and you want to drink beer and sing along. He's a world traveler and showman. I was happy to get an interview with him. He and I pressed forward even though the bar had "The Walking Dead" playing at high decibels.
Elaine: Where are you from?
TC: I'm from Columbia but live in Greenville right now.
Elaine: What do you consider your musical style?
TC: I call it Celtic, gypsy, punk.
Elaine: Who are your musical influences?
TC: Actually Hellblinki. The band Andrew Hellblinki is one of them. The band that inspired me to play accordion is called the Zydepunks from New Orleans. They came through Columbia a few years back and I got an accordion a few months later.
Elaine: If we were to turn on your Ipod or car stereo what would be playing?
TC: Well in my car it's books on tape but that's not what you're after.
Elaine: Cool. No. That's fun.
TC: Well, actually books on tape, the books I read or listen to actually inspire me to write songs. Like recently I read a book called "The Republic of Pirates". It's about why people became pirates back in the 18th Century and I wrote a few songs inspired by that book.actually.
Elaine: So you like pirates?
TC: Oh definitely, I play allot of sea shanties.
Elaine: Do you mostly perform around the Columbia area and Greenville?
TC: I spent most of the year in Moscow, Russia believe it or not. So yeah, mostly I played in Moscow. I did a couple of European tours. One was just the Czech Republic and Germany. The other was Czech Republic, Germany and the United Kingdom, so England and Scotland. I've been back for two months, yeah, a little over two months.
Elaine: What was the audience reaction in Moscow?
TC: It was really hit or miss different nights. I played at the same bar every Saturday. It was an Irish pub and if I got allot of people I knew they'd be really into it but if I didn't some people said eh background music. But then I'd get other nights with people I didn't know and they'd get really into it too. It was kind of hit or miss. I learned a few Russian songs which were really popular with the local Moscow people.
Elaine: Was there a problem with the language difference?
TC: Not really, they knew I wasn't Russian you know and I sang a couple of songs in Russian, I'd sing the chorus'.
Elaine: Is there anywhere you'd like to go and perform that you haven't been yet?
TC: I'd like to play in the Pacific North West. Like Portland, Seattle and especially Vancouver. Allot of my favorite musicians are actually from Vancouver. So I should have probably mentioned them when you said what was in my CD player. Well, there's Geoff Berner whose an accordion player. I started out where I pretty much ripped him off before doing my own thing. Um.. and the Dreadnoughts who are.....you know them?
Elaine: Yeah, I like them
TC: Oh cool, they're probably my favorite band. Who else, The Tower of Dudes, I met them in Prague and right now they're based near Vancouver.
Elaine: What other instruments do you play?
TC: Oh allot, my first instrument was guitar then I learned Mandolin and then the Irish tin whistle. The banjo which I really don't play that well, just Tom Waits' stuff, the bluegrass stuff. I learned a traditional instrument in Laos called the Khaen. I might play it tonight. It's in my car. I'll get it out. I got an instrument from Russia called a Balalaika and I also have some really obscure instruments like a Marxophone. It's really un-describable, you gotta see it but I don't have it with me and the Xaphoon which looks like a little clarinet.
Elaine: What's the main thing you want people to know about you?
TC: I really don't know. I never thought about that before.
Elaine: That's cool. Thank you for letting me interview you.
TC: No problem
Elaine: Where are you from?
TC: I'm from Columbia but live in Greenville right now.
Elaine: What do you consider your musical style?
TC: I call it Celtic, gypsy, punk.
Elaine: Who are your musical influences?
TC: Actually Hellblinki. The band Andrew Hellblinki is one of them. The band that inspired me to play accordion is called the Zydepunks from New Orleans. They came through Columbia a few years back and I got an accordion a few months later.
Elaine: If we were to turn on your Ipod or car stereo what would be playing?
TC: Well in my car it's books on tape but that's not what you're after.
Elaine: Cool. No. That's fun.
TC: Well, actually books on tape, the books I read or listen to actually inspire me to write songs. Like recently I read a book called "The Republic of Pirates". It's about why people became pirates back in the 18th Century and I wrote a few songs inspired by that book.actually.
Elaine: So you like pirates?
TC: Oh definitely, I play allot of sea shanties.
Elaine: Do you mostly perform around the Columbia area and Greenville?
TC: I spent most of the year in Moscow, Russia believe it or not. So yeah, mostly I played in Moscow. I did a couple of European tours. One was just the Czech Republic and Germany. The other was Czech Republic, Germany and the United Kingdom, so England and Scotland. I've been back for two months, yeah, a little over two months.
Elaine: What was the audience reaction in Moscow?
TC: It was really hit or miss different nights. I played at the same bar every Saturday. It was an Irish pub and if I got allot of people I knew they'd be really into it but if I didn't some people said eh background music. But then I'd get other nights with people I didn't know and they'd get really into it too. It was kind of hit or miss. I learned a few Russian songs which were really popular with the local Moscow people.
Elaine: Was there a problem with the language difference?
TC: Not really, they knew I wasn't Russian you know and I sang a couple of songs in Russian, I'd sing the chorus'.
Elaine: Is there anywhere you'd like to go and perform that you haven't been yet?
TC: I'd like to play in the Pacific North West. Like Portland, Seattle and especially Vancouver. Allot of my favorite musicians are actually from Vancouver. So I should have probably mentioned them when you said what was in my CD player. Well, there's Geoff Berner whose an accordion player. I started out where I pretty much ripped him off before doing my own thing. Um.. and the Dreadnoughts who are.....you know them?
Elaine: Yeah, I like them
TC: Oh cool, they're probably my favorite band. Who else, The Tower of Dudes, I met them in Prague and right now they're based near Vancouver.
Elaine: What other instruments do you play?
TC: Oh allot, my first instrument was guitar then I learned Mandolin and then the Irish tin whistle. The banjo which I really don't play that well, just Tom Waits' stuff, the bluegrass stuff. I learned a traditional instrument in Laos called the Khaen. I might play it tonight. It's in my car. I'll get it out. I got an instrument from Russia called a Balalaika and I also have some really obscure instruments like a Marxophone. It's really un-describable, you gotta see it but I don't have it with me and the Xaphoon which looks like a little clarinet.
Elaine: What's the main thing you want people to know about you?
TC: I really don't know. I never thought about that before.
Elaine: That's cool. Thank you for letting me interview you.
TC: No problem
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Concert Review: Rancid @ The Fillmore Charlotte, NC 9/10/2013
The up and coming band, The Interrupters, were a great opening for the show. The foursome out of LA, lead singer Amie Allen and the Bivona brothers, Kevin, Justin and Jesse, were the spark that set the evening off. They sang songs from their soon to be released debut CD on Hellcat Records. Two faves of mine were "A Friend Like Me" and the high energy, "Liberty". They didn't disappoint in getting the crowd warmed up. Keep an eye out for there CD but until then you can check them out on Youtube.
Tim Timebomb and Friends, led by Tim Armstrong, have been doing a song a day on Tim's site and Youtube. They have done over 300. They did cover's of oldies and Tim Armstrong's songs. They brought the tempo up and started the fire with songs like "She's Drunk All The Time", "30 Pieces of Sliver" and the Hank Williams Sr. song, "My Bucket's Got a Hole in it". Armstrong as always was a music storyteller. The audience constantly moving to the music went into a frenzy when Tim came down from the stage to the front of the crowd. Fans clambered forward to touch him and rub his head like a modern day, musical Buddha.
20 year veterans, Rancid, hit the stage sounding even stronger than they did in the 90's. The fire ignited and the crowd went wild. Soon the bodies were flying overhead and the pit was in full swing. Songs like "Nihlism", "Ruby Soho", "East Bay Nights" and "Time Bomb" never grow old. The whole show was high energy and the crowd sang along on several songs, including "Fall Back Down". The band stood up to their legendary status. They will be releasing a new CD sometime in October. They haven't released a CD since their 7th "Let the Dominoes Fall" in 2009.
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| Lars Frederiksen |
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| Tim Armstrong |
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| Matt Freeman |
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| Branden Steineckert |
It was an amazing event and my second time seeing Rancid this year. Did not prepare a more in depth review because I went to this concert to dance my ass off. More than a concert, it was a group of friends doing what they love to do the most, making great music.
See ya in the pit!!!
A funny thing happened on the way to the Rancid concert..........
I had time to kill before the Rancid concert so walked to a little bar close to the venue. There was no one in the bar but myself and two other guys. A guy and girl walk in and sit at the bar near me and order Jameson and Coke. I keep looking at the guy because he looks so familiar. Blahsie, blahsie, long story short, he turns out to be Kevin Bivona and she, Amie Allen. I told him I remembered him from Youtube and playing with The Transplants in Norfolk, VA. Soon in walks Justin and Jesse Bivona and all four almost in unison tell me they are The Interrupters.
Amie introduces herself with a friendly smile and they agree to snap a pic with me. If I had know then I was going to do this page I would have snagged an interview. I have to say they put on a great show.
Amie introduces herself with a friendly smile and they agree to snap a pic with me. If I had know then I was going to do this page I would have snagged an interview. I have to say they put on a great show.
Friday, September 13, 2013
Question and Answers with Rob Ruckus of The Vermin
I first learned of Rob Ruckus from the A&E show "Bad Ink". The show follows him and his tattoo artist buddy, Dirk Vermin, searching Vegas for bad tattoos and then correcting them. They are hilarious and keep you laughing the entire show. Their punk band, The Vermin, is one of the best, true punk bands around. Watching him play bass is magic. He can also be found bartending at the Double Down Saloon in Vegas.
Ruckus really cares about his fans, which is evident on Twitter where he seems to reach out to as many as he can. Few celebrities would grant their fans so much attention. He is kind enough to answer my insomnia driven questions about his tattoos and music and has given me permission to share them with you.
Elaine: May I ask how old you are and who's portrait is on your right forearm?
Ruckus: Old enough and Vincent Price
Elaine: Is that a luchador on your arm?
Ruckus: Yes it is, El Demonio Azul!! The Blue Demon!!
Elaine: I think your ink is interesting. Was gonna guess one was Bela Lugosi too but can't tell
Ruckus: Well I got Vincent Price, Boris Karloff, and Vlad the Impailer. But no Bela, Yet!!
Elaine: So old horror flick fan I see.
Ruckus: yup
Elaine: Boris must be the one I see and I got my creepy peeps mixed up
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Ruckus: It's Boris as Frankenstein. Oh yeah I got Max Schrek as Nosferatu, maybe that's what you see.
Elaine: Who influenced you the most musically?
Ruckus: The Damned.
Elaine: To further my punk education, what are at least 3 bands that would be a must to listen to?
Ruckus: The Damned, TSOL, and The Specials are great places to start.
Ruckus: Check my radio shows. http://www.ruckusontheradio.com
Elaine : Why the bass?
Ruckus: Started on viola, sat on it, then they moved me to upright. 6th grade. Forward a few years and I found the Ramones.
Elaine: How did you learn to play? Lessons? Self taught?
Ruckus: Self taught!! Playing country and jazz stuff taught me when NOT to play.
Ruckus: In other words when to let 1 nite ring instead of hitting as fast as possible.
Elaine: Can u still play viola and upright? Other instruments?
Ruckus: Upright yes, viola no, and a Lil guitar.
Elaine: What other music genres influence you?
Ruckus: I play any and everything from jazz to country, ambient gothic to punk rock Something good in most all music.
Elaine: Is there some sort of difference or division between Vegas punk and LA punk?
Ruckus: Not at all. They played here, we played there. Still great friends.
Elaine: There are so many divisions in punk. What would you consider The Vermin to be?
Ruckus: Just old school punk as far as I'm concerned. Still don't like labels.
Elaine: I love the mix of genres on ur radio cast! No metal?
Ruckus: Not really a metal fan myself.
Elaine: Your taste is eclectic. How do you find your music?
Ruckus: I see em live, know the band, cover the songs or just like the record cover. Mostly seeing live though.
Elaine: Do you listen to radio?
Ruckus: Never
Elaine: Do u like any of the (for lack of better word) mainstream punk bands?
Ruckus: Some, not many. I'm an old fucker, I like the older shit or new stuff by old guys.
Ruckus: If you mean bad religion and NOFX type stuff yes, blink 182, NO!!!!
Elaine: Lol why dont u like blink?
Ruckus: Just think its fake. I like my music with soul!! bumps, bruises and all. They seem too polished for my taste. If others dig em that's great.
Ruckus: Just not MY thing.
Elaine: You're very sweet for chatting with me.
Ruckus: No worries. Storm in lv screwed my Internet. Everything is slow. You should interview bands. You got good ?s. chat later. G'nite!!
There you have it, my first, and will always be my favorite, musician interview! Hopefully, he will answer a few more questions for me later, like why he ends up nekkid on stage! I urge you to check Ruckus out! He's irreverent, captivating, and talented
Download music by The Vermin! If you're a punk you won't regret it. You will thank me.
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You can check his musical style on Ruckus On The Radio Punk Rock Podcast from Las Vegas Nevada http://fb.me/1bSEsbwZ6
Catch him playing Sept. 29th in Cedar City, Utah with THE WESTERN BONE CLEAVERS
Oct. 18 - 25th he will be touring Japan with The Bloodcocks UK.
You REALLY don't want to miss Ruckus and Dirk's show "Bad Ink". Sunday nights at 10 on A&E.
Who knows, if you drop in at the Double Down Saloon in Las Vegas, he just might be the one to pour your cubra libra!!!
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