beatlanta

WELCOME TO BEATLANTA.com

WE ARE STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS...BUT CHECK OUT THE STORIES WE DO HAVE...AND CHECK BACK OFTEN AS WE ROLL OUT MORE SECTIONS AND SERVICES.

You can listen to songs of Atlanta bands and artists as you read through the site with the player at the bottom of your screen.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Check out our youtube channel - hold your mouse over the picture to scroll through some videos; click here to be taken to beatlanta's youtube channel to see more than 75 live videos.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Don't forget to read our blogs and utilize our posts section...and please, post your comments and thoughts to our blogs and posts.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Check beatlanta's post section for news posted by bands, artists and fans of music in general. Attention System just posted some news about the band and their upcoming shows. Feel free to post similar news and anything from comments on a show you saw to listing a used instrument for sale, etc. Please post your thoughts and comments to our latest blog entry regarding the new steps governments are taking to combat so called illegal downloading. Lets start a discussion...please chime in...we want to know what you think about it.

Please come out and support beatlanta's first show Saturday, July 11th at Wonderroot. Music at 8; $5 at the door and all funds go to the bands. We're having a pre-show get together with free kegs so hit us up at beatlanta@gmail.com if you would like to come.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

The Drownout - I managed to get a few questions to The Drownout frontman Jason Jones when the band opened up for Martians See Red at the ladder's CD release show two Friday's ago. I have seen The Drownout a few times now and they always manage to put on an amazing show. They have a melodic sound with just the right amount of dance added in. What I like about them is that they could easily cross genres. If you're into metal then you will love The Drownout but at the same time they can make a crowd move - like dance move. They have songs that draw you in with chilling melodies and by the time you blink and smile, you're dancing around the floor to a groovy dance beat, while the guitars swirl and bellow through the crowd. Not to mention the light show they have put together with a blend of strobes and flashes; which I have to say can change the atmosphere of a crowd and show, and always seem to please the crowd. Probably because the lights blend perfectly with The Drownout's awesome sound. The Drownout are Jason Jones on vocals, Matt Baum on Synth, Justin Marchan on Bass and Rusty Bonham on Drums. Here is the interview...but first check out this video from the show...

When did The Drownout form?

We've been around since late 2005, went through a few lineup changes but we've had this lineup for a while now.

Who writes the lyrics for your songs?

I write most of the lyrics, they tend to revolve around Love, Greed, and Disappointment. I like leaving things open to interpertation whenever possible though.

Are there any major influences that influence your sound or made
you want to start your band?

The sounds of screaming people. haha. As far as bands go I'm really into Shiny Toy Guns, Does it Offend you Yeah, and 3oh!3.

How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard it
before?

Electro Dance Punk

You recently released an album; what is its name? Who produced it? What studio did you use? How many albums do you have out? What are their names?

Our latest album is called "Paper Trails and Binds." The name comes from being stuck in a situation that you feel like you can't get out of. Our debut was called "In Flagrante Delicto," latin for "In Flaming Desire." It was used in past history as an optional plea during murder trials in which a man caught his wife cheating. Kind of like a temporary insanity plea. I produced the first record on my own, then the second I had the help of Justin Marchan and also assistance from John Briglevich from Sonica Recording. We did most of the main tracks at Sonica and used a few other spots around town for finishing
touches.

Having just come out with a CD, how do you feel about the stance of
beatlanta, and the majority of artists that we interview, that file
sharing should be legal and is a very helpful in a young bands/artists
career?

I think its great for helping new bands spread their music, although I don't believe in stealing entire albums from unsigned bands. Money is tough enough out there we need all the help we can get. Plus, at the risk of sounding "old school" I don't own an ipod and my car doesn't have a connection for that either. I think CD's are still important and will be around at least for a few more years.

What places have you toured (if any)? What towns? Whats your
favorite venue to play in Atl and whats your favorite town besides Atl
you've played so far?

We've played way over a hundred shows in this band and have traveled all over the Eastern U.S. In town I like playing Vinyl, Star Bar and The Masquerade. As far as favorite out of town cities, I'd have to say my favorites are New York and Chicago.

How do you feel about the future of the music industry?

I don't know how I feel about it, because I don't know what the future of the industry will be like. All I know is there are thousands of unsigned bands out there, and everyone is clawing each others eyes out trying to get a record deal.

Would you agree that it is time for new and young bands to abandon
the physical CD and go digital only?

No I disagree. We don't have a way to sell itunes at shows, and I don't see people bringing their ipod to shows with them. Most of the music we sell is at live shows, I think there is nothing like getting a physical CD from a band with
the artwork.

What Atlanta area bands would you recommend to your fans and fans
of Atlanta music?

Attention System, Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun, Jungol, Satellite District, and obviously Martians See Red puts on a good show as well.

How did you guys find yourselves playing the Martians... release
show? Do you know the guys from the band?

Yes, we've been friends with them for a while now. We play alot of shows out of town together.

See more videos of The Drownout at beatlanta's youtube channel and more pics in our more pics section. (article, pics & video by ak)

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

DATE: Saturday & Sunday, June 27-28, 2009

TIMES: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm

LOCATION: 470 Flat Shoals Avenue in the heart of the East Atlanta Village

TICKETS: $15: per day (advance or day of show) -or- $20: 2 day weekend pass via advance sales only; weekend pass must be purchased by Sunday, June 21 12pm midnight Click here to buy.

Founded in 1996 and held in various Atlanta area bars for the past 12 years, Dave Railey created CORNDOGORAMA as a way to promote his band on his birthday and the event has been an annual celebration for Atlanta Indie music lovers ever since. This year the festival lands outside in the streets of East Atlanta Village, the heart of the city's Indie Rock Scene.

• 2 day outdoor music festival
• The region's best underground music and eclectic street performers
• Artist Market Village with handcrafted arts
• Lots of great food with a unique focus on the Corndog!
• Carnival-like Atmosphere with a twist
GAMES:

Sign up at info@corndogorama.com

“Tricycle Race” is done in pairs in 3 heats, 6/27 with a final match for champion on 6/28.
Winner gets a secret prize! Also sign up for Watermelon Toss, One Legged Relay Race, Flip-Flop Dash, Cricket crunch, Wiffle Beer Ball, bobbing for sea creatures and 48 hour frisbee.

EATING CONTEST:

Sign up at www.wloce.com

STUNT SHOW:

See our Stunt Show at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3y1293wccE

BAKE OFF:

Bake Off – Who can bake the best pie? We’ll be the judge! Please submit through info@corndogorama.com

CARNIVAL GAMES:

World’s Strongest Man Contest, Pie Throwing Contest, Pickle Eaters

THE 1ST EVER CORNDOGORAMA MUSTACHE CONTEST:

Please submit through info@corndogorama.com

Find Directions to the event here.

Here is the lineup for this year's Corndogorama...

Saturday 6/27

The Graboids 12:00 Sick Figures 12:25

Attractive Eighties Women 12:45
Hip to Death 1:05
Can!!Can 1:30
The Goldest 2:00
Sonen 2:25
Nomen Novum 3:00
Electric Cyles 3:25
Ocha La Rocha 3:45
Club Awesome 4:10
The Mighty Contract 4:35
Sealions 5:00
Wizard Smoke 5:20
(members of Maserati)
TBA 5:40
Corndog Eating Contest 6:00
Hawks 6:20
Whores 6:45
dropsonic 7:15
The Empties 7:45
Noot d' Noot 8:10
The Judies 8:45
Howlies 9:30
Modern Skirts 10:00

Sunday 6/28

The Grenadines 1:00
Bouldercrest Singing Group 1:25
The Slackey Family 1:50
This Piano Plays Itself 2:15
get small 2:35
Niagra Mohawk 3:00
today the moon, tomorrow the sun 3:25
UKU 3:45
Grinder Nova 4:15
Jeffrey Butzer & the Midwives 4:40
A Fight to the Death 5:05
Soulphonics & Ruby Velle 5:30
Batata Doce 5:50
Cordero 6:10
Cadillac Jones 6:35
Twin Tigers 7:00
Young Antiques 7:20
Mini Destroy 7:40
Judi Chicago 8:00
Abby Go-Go 8:35
Western Civ 9:15
Dead Confederate 10:00

Find complete info for Corndogorama 2009 here.

Martians See Red - beatlanta made it out to the Martians See Red Cd release show this past Friday at the Masquerade. The Drownout put on an awesome opener (stay tuned for our interview with frontman Jason James) and Martians See Red took the stage about 10:30. Martians See Red is a self described rock band who puts on a fun show. They blend a nice mix of southern rock meets the Flaming Lips style psychedelia with meaningful, thought out lyrics. The beginning stages of Martians See Red formed in South Carolina in 2003 when original members Kenny (vocals/guitar) and Troy (drums), who were longtime friends who met at a grocery store, decided to put together a band. They later moved to Atlanta and after 7 months of no luck finding a bass player, finally received an inquiry into an ad they had on a bulletin board at Kennesaw State U from Gerr (bass - not sure how you pronounce that name). Justin (guitar), joined after his band Mayhem Hero dissolved in 2006 - when the lineup we know today officially completed Martians See Red. Kenny, who writes the lyrics, had this to say about what inspires his song writing...They're basically based on events that happen in my life. Girls,death,insecurities,fear of getting older.I used to cloak everything in confusing metaphors,but everything I write now is pretty straight forward. Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot inspires the hell out of me. Beckett was a genius. Check out the opening song from the show...

...as you can see the band sounds amazing; and they got jokes to boot.

The new album is titled Godot and was produced and recorded by Philip Raney from PMR sound. Martians See Red also have an EP out from 2007 titled When All Seems Lost...so be sure to check that out too when you get the new album...SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. Kenny cited Cliff Burton from Metallica as a major influence in wanting to play guitar but had this to say when I asked the band about their stance on file sharing...I'm all for file sharing personally. The whole point of this to me is getting our music heard. One of the reasons Metallica makes me wanna vomit is how they handled the napster thing. They have more money than they will ever need and yet they kept whining that there 'art ' was getting stolen. They used to be a great band,but they're a joke to me now. I couldn't agree more. It was that debacle that made me really dislike Metallica, all though I all ready held a deep disliking for Lars Ulrich, d 'bag. File sharing, as you have heard me preach time and again (as we have made it part of our mission at beatlanta) is only a modern way of sharing the music we know and love. It is also an extremely useful resource for getting a young band's sound out there and heard. Kenny had this to ad about the future of the music industry...To me, record labels are going to take a back seat to the internet. I think it's a good thing though because I'm not one of those people who would ever wear something the record label told me I had to. This emo crap is the new 80's metal and it's even worse this time around. Major record labels have been TERRIBLE to some of the bands we've known and I think the internet has allowed great bands like Beirut to become very successful.

I asked the band how they felt about going completely digital, and abandoning the physical CD all together. I've been reading a lot lately about the downfall of the CD, and how record labels ruined the CD by releasing too many songs at once (read my blogs on the subject.) There is a growing consensus that the physical album is no longer a necessary item for new and young bands. It would save a band tons of money to not have to make a physical album. Beatlanta wants to help to headline the move in Atlanta for bands and artists to hold digital album releases. Hit us up and we can talk about some ideas I have for digital marketing as well as cd release shows where you give out free downloads (we can have a computer on site for fans to download straight to their ipods.) Kenny had this to say when I asked him if he would agree that it is time for new and young bands to abandon the physical album release...Yes and no. We've done pretty well online,but we ended up selling about 400 copies of our first ep and that was mainly due to playing in new towns and having our Cd's available at our shows. It would be nice to not have to pay for the pressing of Cd's though. I recognize that and challenge him to think along the lines of what I just wrote...that you could sell digital copies of albums on site; or sell cards that have a link to download an entire album online; or something along those lines.

Martians See Red recommend fellow local acts Jungol (Kenny had this to say about Jungol...Jungol is absolutely incredible and on a whole other level. They are really,really inspiring and their music blows me away), The Bastard Suns, a new band featuring Brandon Parker and Erica Philips called Lord Helmet, who Kenny said had a great sound and the best lyrics around; Dead Confederate, The Drownout, Stokeswood, Odist, Swank Sinatra, The Sneaky Hand and Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun.

Martians See Red got their name from a neurology book by V.S. Ramachandran called Phantoms in the Brain. In that book there was a chapter called Do Martians See Red - so they took that on. It actually has nothing to do with Aliens, said Kenny, when I asked them if martians, do in fact, see red. You can catch Martians See Red touring the Southeast from time to time. They haven't managed to break out of the regional touring quite yet, but had this to say about touring and their favorite venues in and out of town...we actually had a tour booked for the summer, but we had to cancel it because we didn't have the money. In Atlanta, we'd probably say the Masquerade. We played Star Bar a few years ago. That's a cool place. As far as the perimeter goes, North River Tavern is great to us. We miss The Darkside a lot. Jason Gates is the man. We've always been open to playing with anyone and although we sound nothing like anyone whoever played The Darkside, Jason was always really supportive and helped us out a lot. Our favorite place outside of Atlanta is actually Montgomey,Alabama. There's a place called Head on the Door there that we LOVE.We've played with some amazing bands there.This band from Nashville called Sound and Shape played with us at Head on the Door and they were so good it was almost insulting. For now, you can catch the band in Columbus on July 10th; they head to Alabama for a couple shows after that. See more pics of Martians See Red on beatlanta's more pics section. Catch more videos of the band live at beatlanta's youtube channel. Good times are to be had by all at a Martians See Red show. Check them out on ***myspace*** for info on purchasing their new album. And as always....SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. Go see and/or book shows with Martians See Red....cool dudes from this oh so cool town laying it down with some musical talent. --ak

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Its Elephants will be having their CD release show Fri June 26th live at the Earl. Show starts at 9 pm. $7 at the door. The Long Shadows and Whores will be playing as well. Its sure to be an amazing show. BE THERE AND SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC.

Atl band Capibara will be having their CD release show this Wednesday, June 24th at the Drunken Unicorn. Fellow locals the F'n Heartbreaks and Swank Motel will be playing as well. Be looking out for our review of their new album coming soon. ITS SURE TO BE AN AMAZING SHOW. WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU THERE. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC.

Be sure to check out this show on Saturday, June 20th live at the Drunken Unicorn....

Beatlanta vouches for this show. We love the guys from Attention System...see coverage below of a show we caught a few weeks ago at Vinyl and see vidoes of Attention System at beatlanta's youtube channel. You can see vidz of This Piano Plays Itself there as well. GO SEE THE SHOW. ITS GOING TO BE GREAT. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC.

Beatlanta will be out at the Masquerade tonight, Friday, June 19th for the Martians See Red Cd Release show. The Drownout will be playing as well. Its sure to be an awesome time so come out and say hi to beatlanta and the bands.

CanCan - is headed out on tour...check it out...they have a new album due out in August.

Jun 15 2009 8:00P
529 w/ Glen Iris "FREE SHOW" Atlanta, Georgia
Jun 27 2009 1:00P
Corndogorama (East Atlanta Village) Atlanta, Georgia
Jul 15 2009 8:00P
The Earl w/ The Coathangers & Judi Chicago Atlanta, Georgia
Jul 23 2009 8:00P
TBA Mobile Alabama Music Box Mobile, Alabama
Jul 24 2009 8:00P
TBA Pensacola @ the Handle Bar Pensacola, Alabama
Jul 25 2009 8:00P
head on the door w/ Cock Fight Montgomery, Alabama
Aug 7 2009 8:00P
Drunken Unicorn national tour kickoff party w/ TBA Atlanta, Georgia
Aug 13 2009 8:00P
Derby City Espresso sponsored by consuminglouisville.com Louisville, Kentucky
Aug 14 2009 8:00P
*****SHOW NEEDED***** Detroit, Michigan
Aug 15 2009 8:00P
*****SHOW NEEDED***** Detroit, Michigan
Aug 16 2009 8:00P
The Empty Bottle w/ Stereo Sinai Chicago, Illinois
Aug 17 2009 8:00P
Vollrath w/ TBA Indianapolis, Indiana
Aug 18 2009 8:00P
Shemspeed Summer Music Festival @ Mexicali Live Teaneck, New Jersey
Aug 19 2009 8:00P
Sidebar Baltimore, Maryland
Aug 20 2009 8:00P
Shemspeed Summer Music Festival @ The Raven Lounge Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Aug 21 2009 8:00P
*****SHOW NEEDED***** New York, New York
Aug 22 2009 8:00P
Millhill Basement Trenton, N, New Jersey
Aug 23 2009 8:00P
Broadway Presented By Sunday Matinee Amityville, New York
Aug 24 2009 8:00P
The Saint Asbury Park, NJ, New Jersey
Aug 25 2009 8:00P
Shemspeed Summer Music Festival @ Pianos New York, New York
Aug 26 2009 8:00P
TBA New York, New York
Aug 27 2009 8:00P
Shemspeed Summer Music Festival @ The Bellhouse New York, New York
Aug 29 2009 8:00P
Drip’s Coffee Hickory Hickory, North Carolina.

You can hear Drowning Scarlett on Rock 100.5 Monday night at 11pm for Rock 100.5's local showcase. You can also catch Drowing Scarlett at beatlanta's first show on Saturday, July 11th at Wonderroot.

Click for info on the fest 8

THE VIRGINIA HIGHLAND SUMMERFEST is upon us once again. This year's lineup I must say is probably the best since I've known about the event. 2 Stages - The lineup is (local acts in bold)...

SATURDAY, JUNE 6
11:30 am - 12:20 pm: Jackson County Line
12:40 pm - 1:20 pm: Hightide Blues
1:50 pm - 2:35 pm: Matt Hires
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Serena Ryder
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Davey Knowles & Back Door Slam
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm: Cowboy Mouth

SUNDAY, JUNE 7
12:30 pm - 1:15 pm: County Line Strangers
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm: Ponderosa
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm: The Constellations
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Manchester Orchestra

Be sure to check out the local acts. There ares some pretty big names from Atlanta playing making this a show to see. For more information on Summerfest click here and see below. The show is free and open to the public.

WHEN
Saturday, June 6, 2009 – 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(Artist Market will close at 7pm on Saturday)
Sunday, June 7, 2009 – 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

WHERE
Scenic and historic Virginia Avenue between North Highland Avenue and Park Drive

ADMISSION
Free!!! Donations to the Virginia-Highland Civic Association greatly appreciated.

ARTS
The juried artist market features work and exhibits from more than 230 of the best artists in the southeast and beyond, in a variety of media including painting, clay, glass, jewelry, photography, printmaking, fiber, wood, metal and mixed media.

RACE
The Summerfest 5K is held at 8am on Saturday June 6th and features 1,000 runners winding through the neighborhood streets of Virginia-Highland. Following the 5K Race, children aged 5 and under will run, waddle or crawl to the finish line of the Tot Trot held in Inman Middle School field at 8:45am. Registration for the 5K and Tot Trot must be made in advance. See www.active.com to register or email roadraceservices@comcast.net.

DAVE FM MAINSTAGE MUSIC
The 92.9 dave fm main stage will feature a variety of renowned local musicians, along with nationally-acclaimed singer songwriters.

Click to order the new album from Augusta, Ga's AgnesCheck out Agnes' myspace page. Here is the second half of their current tour....

Jun 4 2009 8:00P
Wiseguys w/ TBA! somerset, Kentucky

Jun 5 2009 8:00P
Loud House Coffee Shop w/ XCESS, ADRIAN GRAY, FARE THEE WELL, NEW JERSEY DRIVE Greenbrier, Tennessee

Jun 6 2009 4:00P
*EARLY SHOW* HOT TOPIC INSTORE ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE - SOUTHLAKE MALL Atlanta, Georgia

Jun 6 2009 6:00P
Swayze’s w/ LOVERUSH AND MORE! Marietta, Georgia

Jun 7 2009 8:00P
Help us Book Pensacola, Florida

Jun 8 2009 8:00P
*VENUE TBA* Miami, Florida

Jun 9 2009 8:00P
Solid Sound Studios w/ AS THE SKY BURNS AND MORE TBA! Pompono Beach, Florida

Jun 10 2009 8:00P
The Talent Farm w/ AS THE SKY BURNS AND MORE TBA! Pembroke Pines, Florida

Jun 11 2009 8:00P
*OFF DAY AT THE BEACH!* Charleston, South Carolina

Jun 12 2009 4:00P
*EARLY SHOW* HOT TOPIC INSTORE ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE - NORTHWOOD MALL Charleston, South Carolina

Jun 12 2009 8:00P
"WE ARE MONSTERS" CD RELEASE PARTY @ THE OASIS! Charleston, South Carolina

Be sure to check out Atl Ska Superstars 50:50 shot on Monday, June 15th at Wonderroot. They are playing with another Atl band you should definitely not miss...The Disregardables. See videos of the Disregardables at beatlanta's youtube channel. Check a writeup we did of the Disregardables earlier this year here. Check out 50:50 Shot's myspace page.

ALBUM REVIEW of ATLer's Hurricanes of Love now up in our reviews section. Be sure to check it out...its good. And find a sample song from the album by scrolling through beatlanta's playlist at the bottom of your screen.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Attention System – beatlanta made it out to the see Attention System this past Saturday at Vinyl. They played right before The Drownout and after fellow Atlanta band Satellite District and two Nashville bands, Halo Stereo and November. Now before I get to Attention System I just want to throw out something about the other bands. I made it too late to Satellite District but heard their show is amazing. We talked to the guys from the band after the show and they are pretty cool dudes. We asked some fans in the crowd as well as the guys from Attention System and the Drownout and everyone agrees, Satellite District is a sound to see. Check them at Satellite District’s myspace page. I did make it for November and Halo Stereo. Both out of Nashville you can tell why they play together; and they are a perfect fit. Both bands pump out dancy and powerful music that really gets the crowd going. Its not often I will bring up acts from out of the Atlanta area but I really recommend you check out both Halo Stereo and November if you like to dance and have an awesome time.

Now to Attention System; Wow, Attention System. Attention System. ATTENTION SYSTEM…hands down the best Atlanta show I have attended since putting together this little site. Not only did they exceed my expectations of a live show for a local band, they put on a big venue experience including just being awesome fucking dudes. I had a video interview with the band that I am still working on bringing to everyone (I had some major difficulties with my editing program and may have corrupted the file) but in the meantime I’ll have to just pass it on in writing. These guys formed just 8 months ago and it just does not show. Why? Because you would look at these guys, hear their music, see their live show and assume that they have been at this for years.
Not only did they have an awesome light/laser show on stage, they had the energy to match it. Taking the stage like like monsters they move into complete dark…and then an electronic voice prepares you for the onslaught the crowd is about to receive….check out this opener from the band at the show…

…and it just continues from there. Attention System is Brian Fisher (vocals, keys, sequencing); Joshua Broughton (guitar, vocals, sequencing); Jonathan Davis
(guitar, sequencing); Chris Bass (bass); Jason Curtis (drums, sequencing). Mixing powerful and dancy keys with in your face guitar, fast paced and light drums and a sort of punk styled vocals, these guys are sure to make a record label proud in the months and years to come. The keys are used very cleverly adding just the right amount of “make ya wanna dance” as the guitar, in contrast, is sometimes very heavy and dense…creating a dynamic and unique electro sound. Brian Fisher works in insightful and passionate lyrics, sometime punk styled, sometimes just twisty and melodic. The bass line flows naturally mixing perfectly and undivided within the guitar. They create a stunning experience.

You can probably attribute their excellent sound due to the fact that they all come out of disbanded Atlanta bands including Slow Motion Crash and Creve Coeur. That said, they have spent years being active in the Atlanta music scene, earning fans and networking with other bands (The Drownout used to play shows with Slow Motion Crash). Attention System is also in the Medusa Collection - a group of five bands beatlanta has reported on the past consisting of Attention System, Promise December, Siberia My Sweet, Feeding Fingers and Entertainment. They use each other to book shows with one another so they can work together to bring their like minded sounds more exposure.

This was Attention System’s first time playing Vinyl and they loved the experience. They enjoy playing at Lenny’s and the Star Bar and want to play the Masquerade’s purgatory. Beatlanta is going to try and help the guys hook that up so be looking out for that show. Hit us up if you think you’d be a good addition to the lineup. Attention System recommends fellow Atlanta bands Slow Earth, Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun, Satellite District and of course the bands from the Medusa Collection. Check out another video from the show...

Attention System has one EP out that they give away for free at every show. All of their merch is free and they are huge fans of file sharing saying, “steal our shit.” They agree with beatlanta’s stance that file sharing and technology is a huge asset to young bands trying to get their sound out there in today’s world. Chris from the band added that “record companies have to realize that going forward, their only job is promotions, that’s fucking it.” A very good point meaning that the artists now have the power. They have full creative control and full rights to their album. No more shitty contracts that basically exploit a young band’s talent. Attention System is heading into the studio very shortly to record their first full length album. They do not have a title yet and are still writing songs. They plan on heading up to Ledbelly Sound Studio just outside of Atlanta. So be looking out for their album towards the end of the year or early next year. It is sure to be an amazing album.

All this said…go see Attention System, you will not be disappointed. You can catch them at the Drunken Unicorn on Saturday, June 20th with the Paper Chase and This Piano Plays Itself. See more videos from the show at beatlanta's youtube channel and view more pics of the band at beatlanta's more pics section above. Go catch them so you can say you saw before they were big. --ak ......and as always.....

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

The Drownout live at Vinyl

See more videos at beatlanta's youtube channel.

SILENT AND LISTEN - had their CD release show this past Friday at the Drunken Unicorn. For a young band these guys really sound great. They formed in February of 2008 after Marlon Rhine (Drums- he's played for 12 years) put an add on craigslist and found Nathan Woody (Guitar, Vocals - he's played guitar for 15 years but this is the first band he has fronted), and the two got together to record a few tracks. They never planned on taking it any further but after recording the inititial songs they were so happy with them they decided to seek out a bassist. Philip Mallory plays bass (he has been playing for about 7 years); the guys found Philip on craigslist as well. The guys really love the Atl music community and have found decent success for a young band. They have not played too many shows but after completing the lineup went straight to work on an album.

The show this past Friday was the CD release of their debut album titled Secret Hiding Places Never Are. Joel Mullis of Fatback Studio produced it and it was Mastered by Chris Griffin. They have been working on the album for the past year. We asked Marlon to tell us a little about his favorite song from the album...I really like Gold Leaves Falling. I think dynamically it builds in a really cool way. The bass line in the beginning continues to blow me away. I also really like Fall on Cue as it's kind of a song we wrote for other musicians. A lot of cool punches and rhythmic stuff. Cool, we'll be sure to check out the album. Marlon had this to day about how he would describe the band to a potential fan...I'd describe us as a hybrid of Queens of the Stone Age, Bloc Party and Better than Ezra. With that said I'd be down for hearing your thoughts as well...well, I can definitely back up that. Its funny you say Bloc Party cause they are who I thought of; I through in the Wallflowers and some Dishwala also. I really dig the Wallflowers and I could definitely see these guys opening up for a band like them in the future. They have a nice sound going for them for being such a young band and they have fun at their shows, and you will too so go check them out.

Silent and Listen

These guys like playing at the Drunken Unicorn and the Earl citing the great sound and sound guys. They hope on getting signed to a small label and touring the South East in the months and years to come. I think their chances are pretty good. Compared to a lot of like minded bands these guys sound great and for fronting his first band Nathan Woody sounds amazing on vocals. I would not have guessed that this is his first time fronting an act and they are still such a young band. Keeping with the tradition of my interviews I asked the guys what they thought about file sharing. I am especially interested in what young bands who have just recorded albums think about it, here's what they said...We've put a ton of time and money into (hopefully) making a product people will enjoy. When I look at our CD I would love to have someone buy it and appreciate the awesome artwork that John McAdams produced. With that said, if someone hears our music on a burned CD or by some other means, AWESOME! As a smaller band I think if someone is willing to give us their time that's as good as anything. There's a million bands out there, so it's actually flattering that someone would be listening to our songs. The way I figure it, give our stuff a listen. If you enjoy it, come out to a show and say hello. If you really like it, buy a copy to support the band. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it when someone tells me they have taken the time to listen to the album. I agree, true music fans will support the bands and artists they love. Give them something and they'll give back in return. Why care about file sharing? Because it will directly affect the way you listen and buy music in the future; as well as affecting the bands and artists you know and love. I love listening to music and I like to know that I am free to listen to whatever band I want, regardless of how much money I pay for it...that should have always been up to the bands and artists. Check out this video of Silent and Listen....

Silent and ListenSilent and Listen recommends fellow Atlanta artists Snowden, Deerhunter and Manchester Orchestra, Winston Audio, Lions and Scissors, Dropsonic, Attention System and Satellite District. Check Silent and Listen at their myspace page to hear more of their stuff. See more videos from the show at beatlanta's youtube channel. See more pics of Silent and Listen at our more pics page. GO SEE SILENT AND LISTEN. BUY THEIR ALBUM AND SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. They don't have any upcoming shows as to date but be checking often so you can check them out. --ak

John McNicholas - opened up for the Silent and Listen CD show this past Friday. Check him out on myspace here. He was a folky, soft acoustic sound with insightful and thought out lyric writing. Check out the video I got...quality's not much (beatlanta is in the process of aquiring some better video equipment) but...it has a couple songs and they're pretty good...

He just played the guitar at this show but his myspace has songs with a full band behind him so be sure to check that out cause ya might like it. We managed to ask him a few questions...

You are in a band too, correct? How long have you been playing with the band? How long solo? How long have you played guitar?
- I've been playing guitar with The Good Graces for a few years now. I'm also working on a new project called The Low Days.
- I've been playing solo shows off and on for about 8 years now.
- I've been playing guitar for about 30 years now. Ha, I should be better!

How do you find playing and booking shows as a solo artist compared to in a band in the Atl music scene?
- For the most part the venues are completely different. The bigger clubs book up with bands mostly, typically one band will book the venue and contact the other bands, while the smaller venues like coffeeshops book up with solo artists dealing directly with the owners. Of course there's some crossover, every place is a little different.

What do you think about the Atl scene in general?
- Love the scene here, very supportive, tons of places to play. Great bands and great venues.

What do you think about file sharing?
- If you mean the illegal kind, it seems to be the norm now, so I don't see it going away. Bands don't really make money on CD sales as much as they use to so I'd argue that as long as the band is out playing the illegal file sharing might bring some people to the show where they can get a t-shirt, poster or other items.

What do you think about the future of the music industry?
- It has one, but smarter minds than me have no idea what it's going to look like. I do see the CD going away, but I feel that it has to be replaced by some other physical medium. Vinyl has made a comeback. Maybe it's vinyl, with download codes for mp3s.

Do you have any solo albums out? Any plans for an album or tour?
- I have 2 solo albums. "How to be Alone," and "Silver"
- I've been doing some recording and at some point I'll release it. Love to get out and play as much as I can. Just did some shows in North Carolina, and I was out in Texas for SXSW.

SUB CAM - we managed to catch up with Atl heavyweights Sub Cam (short for Suburban Camouflage) inbetween their busy schedule. These guys ju

st finished their second album which is sure to hit the ground running. Check out their sound at Sub Cam's myspace page. With their first album they introduced us to the perfect mix of light to heavy, melodic songs about life experiences; and with this new album, titled Invisible Lie and produced by Tony Copley with Ledge 7 Entertainment, they are ready to take music fans by storm. Sub Cam formed in 2005 and has managed to maintain the same lineup since, giving way to understanding how good they have become. They are Jacob Lehman - Lead Vocals, Guitars; Isaac Fletcer- Lead Guitar, Vocals; Mike Ely- Bass Guitar and Eric Hodges- Drums.

They just got done playing a few dates throught the South East and have their CD release show at the 8 Ball Room in Duluth on Saturday, May 30th. I recommend you be there. These guys have a way of winning over the crowd. They have a sound that is sure to please everyone from metal heads to power pop freaks. They claim influences from Tool to Led Zepp to Alice and Chains and you can definitely hear it in their sound - all though they mix in just the right amount of power pop and thoughtful, emotional lyrics. I will admit, my first impression of hearing their music was so so but after listening to all of their songs and really taking it in and listening to each instrument I begin to understand why these guys are sure to become a major act out of Atlanta - and they made me a fan. Jacob had this to say about Atl music scene: The Atlanta music scene is overall a great music scene. I have never lived in another town, but we have played all over the south east . Atlanta has a diverse music scene and being such a big city it tends to be very spread out. Some of the other towns we have played in like Nashville tend to have a lot of venues closer together. There are little areas where there might be 6 or 7 venues in a few blocks. There is undoubtedly tons of talent in Atlanta and a wide variety of music. We get a great reception in a lot of towns, but the music scene varies from city to city. Some places we play only have a few venues that do rock for the whole city others have 10 to 20. Over all there is a lot of opportunity for musicians in Atlanta if you are willing to work very hard.

Apr 30 2009

8:00P

Ledge 7 Studios (Mixing)

Dallas, Georgia

May 2 2009

8:00P

Soho’s

Columbus, Georgia

May 30 2009

8:00P

The 8 Ball Room (ALBUM RELEASE SHOW)

Duluth, Georgia

Jul 16 2009

8:00P

Spinnaker’s Beach Club

Panama City, Florida

Jul 18 2009

8:00P

TBA

TBA, Georgia

They love to play the Masquerade when in Atlanta (which seems to be a running theme with Atl bands) and The House of Blues at Myrtle Beach and any venue in Nashville when out of town. They recommend fellow Atl bands The Killer and the Martyr, Stonerider, Uncrowned, and add if you are interested in instrumental music that is really great then check out The Ruination.

Jacob had this to say about his favorite song from the upcoming album Invisible Lie: If I had to choose one...I would probably go for Petals. It combines a majority of my favorite influences and styles. The song is very dark and energetic. The chorus is very catchy and the verses are very erie sounding. The song is about a girl who does everything for the wrong reasons and comes up short on all aspects of her life. It is a symbol for people who pretend like everything is fine when sometimes things are far from it. It is a wake up call for people who will not be honest with themselves or with others leading themselves to a very dark place. Wake up people!! You only live once!

These guys had something different to say about our research into whether local bands support file sharing. So far, all but one band and now Sub Cam have agreed that file sharing is a great source for up and coming bands and that money should now be made through other means. Read beatlanta's blogs about file sharing and the future of free. Sub Cam didn't disagree that it was a good thing but added some pretty good points. Here is a little of what they said: ....it depends on the situation. Overall I think file sharing is a bad thing. I know people will always turn each other on to new music and I'm all for that. I do feel that if people want to see artist do more with there careers and give there fans more for there money they need to pay for there music...Sharing a single from an album to help promote the band in certain situations can be a great thing. If sharing a song for free essentially creates more exposure for a band than I say do it. There is a fine line though between gaining exposure and devaluing your music and career. I can agree somewhat. The line in my opinion is not so fine though. Here's why...if you give your album away for free then a lot more people are going to here it. And lets say a certain percentage of people who hear your album, whether they bought it or not, are going to like your music and come to your shows. That percentage is going to be much larger if you have distributed your sound to more people for free. Therefore, you are going to have a lot more people coming out to your shows. With free music, you can literally reach thousands of more people than you would if you sold your album. I'm not saying that bands will make as much money as they used to from live shows compared to album sales but I am saying it won't be hard to make a good living if people dig your music. And hell, a lot of people will come see your show and pay to get in simply because you gave them a free album...and file sharing is not going away so bands and artists are forced to adapt.

We asked the guys how they advertise their shows and they have some pretty good ideas we have not heard yet: We usually get online promoters such as Atlanta's Rock Scene, The Silver Tongue Online, BeatAtlanta.com , Muen Magazine, and several others involved on the internet. We have used the local radio in several events to advertise as well as the radio stations web site. Local papers (Creative Loafing, AJC) and of course fliers throughout Atlanta. We use Myspace, Facebook, and we have an email list for internet contacts which always comes in handy. Last but not least we send out text messages to our text list also. The guys also had some pretty intellegent thoughts on the future of the music industry: I feel like there is a lot of people who are very pessimistic about the future of the business. I feel like no matter what happens there will always be people who love music and love rock and roll. It is disappointing that people are buying less and less albums, but they are still buying music. Whether you buy a cd or order a download from an online distributor you are still buying music. It is easier to burn music and pirate music from artist, but people have made each other copies of cassette tapes since the eighties. The internet has certainly interrupted some aspects of the music business, but it makes music available world wide. Before it wasn't as easy to spread your music to anyone unless you were on the radio or touring in that area. Independent music is on the rise. People have more options and access to music via the internet. I think that the music business is shifting gears. Live music and merchandising is becoming a more profitable way for musicians to earn a living. I guess that is the price we pay for having everything we could possibly want a click away. I still feel there is hope, tons of talent, and many more great things to come from the music industry. Beatlanta could not agree more. The future of music is independent and online...which is why we exist...to hopefully help facilitate the revolution in music that is taking place as you read this article. The major labels are failing to keep up with the technological changes that have taken the industry by storm and continue to throw out half assed ideas on how to combat such things as file sharing and music on the internet. So with that said...GO SEE SUB CAM. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. THEY WANT TO SEE YOU AT THE 8 BALL ROOM ON SATURDAY, MAY 30TH. YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED. --ak

Reeks of Failure - hailing from Athens, Ga - (beatlanta's sphere of influence does indeed reach that far) - go see these guys the next time they play. If you like punk music then you're going to love Reeks of Failure. Claiming such influences as Bad Religion, Bad Brains, Modest Mouse, the Descendents, Strike Anywhere, the Dead Kennedys and other such great punk acts these guys keep the tradition of wild, fun and in your face music as the aformentioned bands. Reeks of Failure is Philip Lewin: guitar, vocals; Nick Gomez: bass, vocals; Jonathan Titshaw: drums; Josh Massey: occasional trombone, former drums, vulgarity. They had their first practice in December of 2007 and their first show just after that in March of 08. Josh and Phil met each other in college and started playing together. After jamming together for a while they put an ad on craigslist for a bassist and drummer but found no luck that way. Nick, formerly of the band A Brand New Direction, who had just moved from El Paso, found out the guys were looking for some bandmates and the guys started to play together. Phil had this to say about the guys forming a name: By the time we played our first show at my house (a deplorable performance, incidentally), we still hadn’t decided upon a name. The following day, we played a benefit show at the high school that Nick teaches at (an even worse performance, though we didn’t think it possible at the time). The organizers asked him for one, and, digging deep into the well of his creative faculties, he produced “Reeks of Failure.” I don’t know what it's supposed to mean or through what process he begot it. I assume that it referred to our incompetence as musicians or our incompetence at life more generally. Whatever its meaning, though, it stuck. Although, I should note that Josh and I wanted to reconstitute ourselves as D’Artagnan, after the Alexander Dumas novel for a period of time. I’m not sure what accounted for that name either. Drunkenness, perhaps.

Reeks of Failure live at the MasqueradeThe guys continued to play shows in Athens for the next 9 months and put together an EP in Dreamlab Studios by December of 08. Phil went on to explain what built up to what we all know and will all eventually love as Reeks of Failure: I also learned how to sing and play guitar at the same time --a laudable feat--and started sharing vocal duties with Nick. Some of those shows were really good, and others were really bad. Examples of bad shows would include an outdoor festival called “Assfest,” at which we began playing nine hours after scheduled only to have the sky open up on and all of our equipment during the set., and a show at the Washington Street Tavern in September at which only one person--no exaggeration--showed up. That sucked. This is somewhat non sequitur, but another important part of the narrative is that, during most of this time, Josh was between jobs or simply unemployed, given the recession and general lack of demand for geologists. The bastard was sleeping on my couch all of the time. However, he finally received what, at the time, appeared to be a promising job offer in January 2009. The catch was that he would have to move out of town. Alas, the departure of Josh. So we played our last show with him on drums at Tasty World in Athens, and he left for Midland, Texas the next day.

At that point, it was back to Craigslist. We received a few responses to our ad for a drummer, but, like the last time, they came mostly from unscrupulous, apparently uncivilized people, such as “D’Angelo Frissell,” who professed his passion for pornography and drinking blood in his “application” for the band. Eventually, though, Jonathan, who seemed relatively stable psychologically (an improvement relative to Josh, I might add) got in touch with us. We practiced a few days later, and holy shit were we humbled! He was by far the most talented musician among us. And he liked our songs and wanted to partake in the band. So Jonathan joined Reeks of Failure in February, and we played our first show with him at Little Kings in Athens on March 7th--only about two weeks after he’d joined. We played a few more shows over the subsequent few weeks, all of which went really well. Meanwhile, back in Midland, Texas, the economy had soured, and Josh, only after about a month on the job, got laid off and made the drive of shame back to Georgia. Jonathan, however was now playing drums. Josh, thus, rejoined as our trombone player and occasional grunter. He can now be heard making squealing noises and vociferating “huuuhs” on select songs, such as “My Own Revolution.” The four of us played our first show in Atlanta at the Masquerade on May 9th. A recording session is in store for June, a Southeast tour for July, and as many more Atlanta and Athens shows as possible for thereafter. What a tale…

What a tale indeed. That was your first show? I am totally impressed. That is the show that beatlanta caught and it was a show to see. These guys opened the show and immediately I was in the mood to be throwin myself around. I asked the guys to tell us how the Atlanta scene compares to the Athens scene.They mentioned that they know less about the Atl scene as they live and went to school in Athens but did throw out that it seems to harder to book shows in Atlanta; due to the fact that there are more completing venues and more bands to go around. They named dropped Atlanta punk bands Wrister and Fox Trotsky citing the Atlanta punk scene and had this to say about Athens: We know the Athens scene well--especially me, since I’ve lived there for ages due to college and grad school. Athens, as everyone knows, is home to a great community of musicians. Booking shows is easy, and creativity and adept musicianship abound. Athens' punk scene, I would however venture to say, is a bit more limited. We’ve not really found our niche there. We’re hoping to do so in Atlanta and the surrounding area. Booking shows in Atlanta does seem to pose a bit more difficulty relative to Athens, as it harbors bigger venues, and locals have to compete with national touring bands. We’d love to cultivate a network of people who host house shows or who run small venues and shows spaces. To me, those settings tend to be more fun and intimate to play in anyway. Check out this video from the show...

FIND BETTER SOUND QUALITY AT REEKS OF FAILURE'S MYSPACE PAGE. The guys have a 6 or 7 song untitled EP out and plan on entering the studio again this June (next month). It will be their first time recording with Jonathan and the first with Josh on Trombone. Be looking out for that later this year. They advertise their shows using the traditional methods such as flyers, myspace, emails, online invitations, etc. BANDS AND ARTISTS...PLEASE USE BEATLANTA AS YET ANOTHER ONLINE RESOURCE TO ADVERTISE UPCOMING SHOWS, NEWS AND ALBUM RELEASES. Simply fill out the form to the right to let us know about it and please utilize beatlanta's posts section to let fans and friends know about everything as well. You can fill out the form to the left to invite someone to document a show as well. Check out another video from the show...

Phil had this to say about playing shows in and around town: We’ve not toured anywhere yet, but we plan to do so in July--traveling throughout the Southeast--mostly Florida. As far as local venues, we all really enjoyed playing at the Masquerade. Being from Atlanta, it was especially fun for me, as I’ve seen countless shows there and feel like I essentially grew up in the place. In Athens, I really like playing at Little Kings. It’s small, and it’s a great little bar. For whatever reason, we tend to have lots of fun there. Awesome, we'll have to check out Little Kings...I've never heard of that one.

Sticking to beatlanta's tradition in the fight for using technology to discover and distribute music we asked the guys how they feel about file sharing: I endorse file sharing. I think that we should avoid commodifying music and other forms of culture (and, really, any aspect of social life). Most of the research suggests that while file sharing cuts into corporate profits, it tends to benefit bands--especially smaller ones. I could go on about this, but I’ll stop and simply relate that I support the practice. We couldn't agree more at beatlanta. Please check out our blogs about the RIAA, MPAA and other foolish practices by these organizations and the governments that support them...and please post your comments and thoughts about these blogs so we know what you think as well. WE WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE PUBLIC THINKS ABOUT THE PRACTICES OF OUR GOVERNMENTS AGAINST FILE SHARING. READ THE BLOGS; THESE PRACTICES WILL DIRECTLY AFFECT THE WAY YOU BUY, LISTEN AND SHARE MUSIC IN THE YEARS TO COME...AS WELL AS AFFECT THE BANDS AND ARTISTS YOU KNOW AND LOVE.

Reeks of Failure recommends fellow Atl/Athens bands Wrister, Fox Trotsky, So it Goes, Dusty Lightswitch, Chop Top, the Jumpin' Jeses Christers and The Fact. GO SEE THESE BANDS. GO SEE REEKS OF FAILURE. Check out more pics of Reeks of Failure in beatlanta's more pics section. Check out more vids of Reeks of Failure at beatlanta's youtube channel. --ak...and as always....

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Click to get your tickets

Catch Attention System on Projt 9-6-1's Project Homegrown (96.1 fm) all week from May 18th to May 22nd every night at midnight. Project Homegrown is a local only showcase of Atl's up and coming bands and artists. Its a really great segment on Project 9-6-1 that you should definitely check out. Attention System is an awesome Atlanta band reminiscent of early NIN (the electric part - yeah!) meets The Faint, Ladytron, etc. These guys are soon to be a major name out of Atlanta mixing just the right amount of metal with awesome syth and electronica - they really have defined their own sound not like any other coming out of Atlanta. You can catch them this Saturday, May 23rd at Vinyl...and be sure to tune into 96.1 for Project Homegrown to sample their tunes before the show.

Saturday and Sunday, June 6th and 7thTHE VIRGINIA HIGHLAND SUMMERFEST is upon us once again. This year's lineup I must say is probably the best since I've known about the event. 2 Stages - The lineup is (local acts in bold)...

SUNDAY, JUNE 7
12:30 pm - 1:15 pm: County Line Strangers
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm: Ponderosa
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm: The Constellations
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm: Manchester Orchestra

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

SOIL TO SKY is looking for a new bassist. Check out beatlanta's post section for their contact if you know someone or think you're a good fit yourself. Check them out.

MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA - click here to view a few videos from a session Manchester Orchestra did with livedaily.com. You can also download for free the entire session in mp3 format. It features songs from Manchester Orchestra's latest album Mean Everything to Nothing. Check it out. Its an upclose and intimate look at Manchester Orchestra.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

EARLY WEEZER FANS REJOICE - the sound we all know and love is back and here to stay in the Atl. The face of Atlanta geek rock is...KOCHIS (its pronounced Coaches, not co-cheeze) - beatlanta caught Kochis the past Friday at the Masquerade. It was a real good time and they are a real cool band. Describing themselves as geek rock, Kochis could be grouped with the likes of Weezer (more their early stuff - which most everyone seems to like way better anyway) and early Green Day, Guster, etc. They don't have a problem setting themselves apart though. Mixing a pinch more punk in the mix than the above mentioned bands, they have a unique and fun take on pop punk and geek rock. Kochis is Jason Kochis (where they got the name - and apparently its the most mispronounced band name ever) on Guitar, Corey Jones on drums and Rick Bouchard on bass. Rick added he just tries to play bass and makes it look like he knows what he is doing - I think he's being hard on himself. They say they formed in a galaxy far far away when Princess Leia (is that how you spell that) was coming back from buying space groceries. They say they know each other pretty well and found each other on craigslist...that must be space craigslist.

These guys took the stage and immediately rocked out. With a fast tempo and sorta choppy, melodic sometimes punk style vocals, you can tell these guys love to have fun. The music made you want to dance and the sound made you want to listen. The lyrics were quirky and sometimes funny. We asked them to describe geek rock in their own words...We always stumble through an answer whenever someone asks this question. The best answer is just to listen to our music. Or better yet, come to a show! Sounds good. I came to a show and I guess these guys fit the build...they have the sound, the style and the sense of humor one would expect to find in a geek rock band...I mean, they did just quote star wars :)- and Jason even looks like Rivers Cuomo. All joking aside I say these guys are a sound to watch and I recommend heading out to one of their shows.

Kochis live at the MasqueradeJason from the band had this to say about geek rock and geek rock in Atlanta...I can only speak for myself, but I'm a bit of a geek who likes to turn up my distortion pedal, rock out, and sing catchy songs about girls with glasses, video games, Star Wars, comic books, and other nerdy stuff. I'm heavily influenced by early Weezer, The Rentals, Ozma, Nerf Herder, and old Green Day. If you have any interest in these kind of things you'd probably like our music. Are we the Wikipedia definition of Geek Rock? Probably. We at least wear black rimmed glasses...tlanta is a great place for bands. Geek Rock bands I'm not so sure. There are a few really great ones here like The Warm Fuzzies and El Scorcho that keep the candle burning. Other than that, I haven't found any other bands that play the style of music we do. Rick had quite a different view of the Atl scene, one we don't necessarily agree with, or atleast are helping to change...Atlanta is a musical wasteland, in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, we've had some awesome support from people close to the band. But as a general rule, if you're not country, Lynard Skynard or hip hop, no one cares. Unless you're lucky enough to have the radio stations force-feeding your songs 15,000 times a day to people who work in an office somewhere...then people might start to notice you.

Kochis at the MasqueradeThats why beatlanta is here to stay. To change that particular view of the scene. We think there are a ton of good bands coming out of Atlanta; they just need some exposure. Kochis has a 5 track E.P out that you can find online and sold at their shows and are currently seeking the right place to record a full length. If you recommend a place find Kochis on myspace and shoot them a message. These guys have the same view of the music industry that seems to be floating around now adays; Jason saying that Its uncertain - definitely changing - and something I hope to be a part of in no certain terms. Rick had this to say about it: Well, I think I've elaborated quite a bit on how I feel, but I never turn down an opportunity to speak my mind. I think the music industry sucks. I think 97%(or more) of the music today is total garbage. The funny part is, it's the listener's fault. They keep buying, so it's still for sale...in mass quantities. There are some great bands out there, but very few people have heard of them. It's cool though, because it keeps the bands humble & thankful for your support. God knows we don't need any more Lars Ulrichs running around. I definitely agree - Lars Ulrich is a moron to say the least - god I hate that guy. Hey, check out this video from the show...

Check out some better sound quality at Kochis' myspace page (listen while you read the rest of this story). Kochis has so far only played in Atlanta and loves to play the Masquerade citing the history of the place as the main reason...The staff is cool & we've grown up watching our idols do everything short of destroying the stage, so it's kind of surreal to play there. You get this feeling when you walk onto the stage & you know you'd better play your heart out because that place is legendary. Makes you feel like you don't deserve to be there. It's pretty cool. Keeping with the tradition of our site the guys had this to say about file sharing...Rick had this to say...I think it's fine. The only people it hurts is the labels...and fuck them. They're responsible for all the crap that is the mainstream. They should pay for their mistakes by way of us illegally downloading the few songs we actually want to hear. Always make sure you buy lots of merch at a band's show, though. That way you're not hurting the band...just the label. Fuck them. Corey this...Only good things can come from file sharing and the industry coming to terms with the fact that its going to be around for a long, long time. Beatlanta couldn't agree more.

SUPPORT KOCHIS; BUY THEIR MERCH; GO TO THEIR SHOWS - its a good time and fun music. Find Kochis playing at Tasty World in Athens on Thursday, May 14th and at Lenny's Bar here in the Atl on Friday, May 29th. Find more pics of Kochis in beatlanta's more pics section...and more video of them at beatlanta's youtube channel. --ak

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

PONDEROSA IS CURRENTLY ON TOUR with a some dates with Butch Walker...check out the dates...they are lacking in some ATL dates though...whats up with that...

May 8 2009 10:00P
Evening Muse Charlotte, North Carolina
May 9 2009 10:00P
Slim’s Downtown Raleigh, North Carolina
May 11 2009 8:00P
Hi-Fi Concert Club Cleveland (Lakewood), Ohio
May 13 2009 10:00P
Crash Mansion (w/ The Rosewood Thieves) New York, New York
May 14 2009 8:00P
Fat Tuesday’s Fairfax, Virginia
May 15 2009 10:00P
Matchless Brooklyn, New York
May 16 2009 10:00P
Sycamore Brooklyn, New York
May 20 2009 8:00P
Stubb’s BBQ (w/ Butch Walker) Austin, Texas
May 21 2009 8:00P
Pontiac Garage (w/ Butch Walker) Dallas, Texas
May 24 2009 8:00P
Bluebird Theater (w/ Butch Walker) Denver, Colorado
May 27 2009 8:00P
Great American Music Hall (w/ Butch Walker) San Francisco, California
May 28 2009 8:00P
The Glass House (w/ Butch Walker) Pamona, California
May 29 2009 8:00P
El Rey (w/ Butch Walker) Los Angeles, California
Jun 19 2009 10:00P
Tin Roof (w/ Modern Society) Charleston, South Carolina

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

500 Songs for Kids begins tomorrow April 30th at Smith's Old Bar. It includes a large number of local acts as well as artists from all over the world, including some "major" names.

Saturday, May 9th (local acts in bold): Adam McKnight & Charles Bullock, Arrested Development, Arum Rae (Savannah, Ga), Aslyn Mitchell, Birds And Wire (Athens, Ga), Christopher Alan Yates, Courtney Jaye, Death On Two Wheels, Doomsayer, G Force, Grand Prize Winners From Last Year, Injected, Janelle Monae, Jaspects, Jesse Dupree (Kennesaw, Ga) , Jessie Baylin, JOI, Kevin Spencer, Leslie, Modern Skirts, Novel, Pat Sallarulo, Sam Thacker, Sanjay Kothari, Sir Will And The Rose Parade, Sonia Leigh, The Bridges, The Lost Boys, The Selmanaires, The Whigs (Athens, Ga), Three5Human, Tim Anderson, Trances Arc, Vonnegutt, Wild Sweet Orange, Y-O-U and so much more.....

500 Songs For Kids, Friday, May 8th (local bands in bold): Shawn Mullins, Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, Telegram, Tim Brantley, Vanessa Olivarez, Justin Kerenyi, Amy Lashley, Bambara (Athens, Ga), Beastliest Boyz, Big Mike Geier And Tongo Hiti, Blues Cat, Brad Cox (Grayson, Ga), Charlene, Cinetrope, County Line Strangers (Formerly Unusual Suspects), D'Maestro (Lithonia, Ga), Dinock, Edison Project (Augusta, Ga), Electa Villain (Athens, Ga), Fishhawk, Galleon!, Herman Put Down The Gun, James Hall, Jennifer Loudermilk, Konobi, Kopy Katz, Kyshona Armstrong And The Guys (Athens, Ga), Laura Lockie & Charles King, Lectures On The Apocolypse, Left Front Tire, Leftover Tracks, Lustre King, Mark Gaignard, Now We Sleep, Pete Whitfield, Pluto Zook Grey Goo, Rantings Of Eva, Shawn Michael Haney, Siberia My Sweet, Sunni Stephens, The Beggars' Guild, The Bradley Cole Smith Band, The Coathangers, The Lord Is My Shotgun, The nat.u.ral and friends, The Sammies, The Seventh Ring Of Saturn, The Sky Schumacher Band, Ultradrive, Xylah.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

CHECK OUT 13 DAY MISSION - this video is a 10 minute monster of a song. 13DM is a 3 piece sometimes 4 piece prog, experimental space rock band. Check out the vid....

We were able to get with the guys and ask them a few questions. We saw 13DM at the Masquerade and only caught the last two songs but I was blown away. They are Bret Phillips on Bass, Steven on Drums, Marty Eason on Guitar and sometimes David Carter on keys. Not only are they a great band but they are a great interview. I love these guys. Here is the interiview...

Can you tell us about 13 Day Mission? When did ya'll form? How do
you know each other? Who plays what instrument? Are you all from
Atlanta? What is the 13 Day Mission?

BP-
That's a lot of questions for just one question but here goes:

As far as I can remember, them members of 13DM formed at conception.

Steven and I had the same home room in high school. Both of us were
already musicians in some capacity, as well open minded to one others
musical tastes, so naturally we started a band.

At the moment, I (Bret Phillips) am on bass for 13DM, Steven on drums, Marty Eason is
shredding guitar with us, and David Carter of the band Miles from
Pangaea coming and going on keys.

13DM reside in Atlanta, 13DM comes from an energy far far from here.

What is the 13 Day Mission? The 13 Day Mission is taking that one
extra leap to reach that next level. When the 12 day trip has
finished and the rest are ready to call it quits, who will continue
on? Some people say the number 13 is unlucky. Some buildings do not
have a 13th floor. Some people will not go outside on any Friday the
13th. Then there are those who embrace 13 for what it is, those who
believe, those who know the truth.

2. How do you feel about the Atlanta music scene? Do you find it
treats you well? Do you find it easy to find like minded bands to play
with? How do you find the math rock scene in Atlanta?

SM-
On the whole I do enjoy the music played around the Atlanta area. We
have been working on Hijacking Music for a year or so now that is
focused on searching for like minded artists and musicians and begin
an artistic community for support. That has gone very well and we
have found many artists that would like to be involved with Hijacking
Music. I am not one for throwing out genres or labels upon bands or
music as I see it as just music and nothing else. With anything in
life you have to take the good with the bad, and Atlanta has both
involved in it's music scene.

BP-
I think Atlanta is a great place for music. There are a ton of good
venues and a overwhelming amount of bands. I can definitely say I
have sat through some amazing bands sets here, but I have also been at
some terrible shows too. I think the scene has been treating us well,
we haven't been hit in the faces with beer bottles and tomatoes yet.
But as with anywhere you go, there is a certain route you can take,
and play the same songs that everyone else is writing and lots of
people will come to shows, sing your songs, and feel comfortable
listening to your music. Then there is another route, one where you
create any kind of music you want. It will definitely make your life a
little harder trying to build a public face for your band, but when
that actually starts working out, and people are coming to your shows
to hear something different, the payoff is much greater.

As for like minded bands, that has not really been a problem for us at
all. We have met a ton of amazing musicians over the last couple of
years and have been working with several of them very closely to build
up what we are calling the Hijacking Music Collective. When you start
playing out people always tells you to make friends with the other
local bands and put on shows, so we have been.

Talking about the math rock scene, more than anything, I have seen
bands with a more metal approach to it than a rock approach. And I
enjoy that.

3. Have you played outside of Atlanta? If so, where? What is your
favorite venue to play in Atlanta? Was that your first time at the
Masquerade?

Yes we have played outside of Atlanta. Our last trip took us from
here all the way to Grand Rapids including stops in Chicago and Ohio
that were amazing. In Grand Rapids we played as a 2 piece bass/drums
for a 2 man band festival called Fes2val, we played on a bridge going
over a river...probably my favorite venue to date. As for a favorite
Atlanta venue to play, I am going to say Drunken Unicorn. The spot is
great, the sound system dominates, and the people that work for the DU
are great.

This was our second Masquerade show. The first time we headlined,
finishing the show with Steven kicking his drums off the stage like a
rock star. It was awesome.

4. We've heard from a few bands that the Masquerade is the best at
treating bands well? Was that your experience there?

We have never had a bad experience with anyone associated with the
Masquerade. We've all gone played and gone to tons of shows there,
always a good time.

5. How do you feel about file sharing? Do you feel its detrimental to
the industry or do you find it a good thing - to help more people hear
more music?

SM -
Share away mother fuckers. I think the industry is the evil thing
that needs to be brought to it's knees, not file sharing. Recording
companies and the music industry have had a strangle hold on musicians
and artists for a very long time now, at least those that decide to be
associated with them. Musicians need to realize that true wealth lies
in the creativity and artistic level of your piece of art.

BP -
I started really getting into indie music, math rock, post rock, bands
like Don Cab, Tortoise, Trans Am back when finding an mp3 online
somewhere was starting to become a thing. In my research I was very
pleased to find albums from those bands, but I was even more pleased
to find music by the bands that influenced them. At the time it
seemed that no matter how deep I dug, I was able to find the music and
most importantly...listen to it. I can tell you that being a musician
and meeting and playing with lots of bands, there is typically an
exchange of each others music early on no fee attached.

In that regard, I am for file sharing. We offer all of our music
online for free now, as you said, to help more people hear it. I
would much rather give someone our music and them listen to it and
enjoy it, have it be a part of their lives and influence them, than
for the person to never hear it because we charge for CDs that they
might not be able to get a hold of.

If people like it and support you, they pay to come to your shows and
see you play, buy your merch, tell their friends, etc etc etc. The
goal for us when we have a show is not so much to just showcase a few
bands at some venue with a stage, but more to have a big time and
bring together people who enjoy doing that as well.

6. How do you feel about the future of the music industry?

BP -
Music has been around since man has been around. The music industry
is whatever people make it, it will always be there. Its just that,
like the rest of our economy recently, some people with lots of power
and lots of pull, had grown very greedy and stopped caring about
people as people, and saw them only as numbers. Now that the artists
are able to take matters into their own hands with the instant
communication that the internet allows, these people who had power and
pull, are losing it. The internet is allowing us to have what we
should have had anyway, a Free Market, and I am OK with that.

SM -
Just another form of control for us "free" Americans.

7. Do you have any CDs out or any planned? If so what are their names.

We have two albums available right now. The first, Ex Incendia
Libertas, was recorded a couple years ago by Steven and Myself. Its 45
minutes of instrumental space rock music that will take you on a
journey from start to finish. I played guitar on that and did most of
the bass tracks. Our bass player at the time did some as well.
Shortly after recording that I moved to bass full time.

The other available album is titled Ozone Lair Restoration. It is a
collection of mostly live jams recorded here at our house/home
recording studio the Ozone Lair. It features quite a few other ATL
musicians as well the kind of stuff we had been working on during
2008.

We do have our next album in the works. This will be a full length
release, our most cohesive yet. We have not decided on a title yet
but we will be shaking things up a bit, adding some sparse vocals,
going real heavy with the rhythms, and hopefully bringing something
fresh to the table. Stay posted!

8. Tell us about one of your favorite songs?

SM -
Don Cab - Repeat Defender

This is a ten minute piece by one of my favorite bands of all time.
Though it starts off slow and melow the musicians build up the
intensity very slowly until the song is in complete control of your
auditory senses. I have always enjoyed Damon Che's drumming, and this
is a great example of how he fuses his rock style with some jazz and
funk influence. By the 4:30 mark the band is really starting to pick
up the strength of the song and testing your attentiveness as a
listener. Most average listeners would give up on the song at this
point and call it "just a bunch of noise". Fortunately I am not the
average listener and I really enjoy a lot of noise, I mean music. The
ensuing minutes greet you with more in your face and intense drumming
and guitar playing from all angles as the rhythm slowly builds and
explodes. One of the great things about this piece I enjoy is that
every time I give it a listen I hear something new that I had not
noticed previously. The song slows it's pace and intensity once again
and is slowly drowning out, only to be brought right back into action
by a slam of the ride bell by Damon Che. In the end, to me, there is
nothing that can compare to the creativity and skill displayed
throughout this entire song by the entire band.

BP -
Dave Brubeck Quartet at Carnegie Hall. First song on the second disk,
Eleven Four. He says "Its written in 11/4 time, the writing is very
difficult but that's not the problem, the problem is to improvise in
eleven". One of the smoothest jams in 11 ever. I saw Brubeck at Emory
a few years ago and all 4 guys on stage were over 80 wearing a tux,
and it was THE MOST SPACED OUT music I've ever experienced live. They
rocked it.

You can download 13 Day Mission's albums for free at 13 Day Mission's official website. Check it out; there's a space invader type game at the top. Its a pretty cool site. Look out for these guys. Check out their upcoming shows at 13DM's myspace page. Hopefully they'll be playing beatlanta's second show at wonderroot on August 1st. --ak

Check out our friend's blog Decatur Psalms for details on his favorite up and coming Atlanta shows and news on music and such. Decatur Psalms always has awesome stories and has a good eye on what local shows you definitely need to check out - its an excellent source with great writing. SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT MEDIA.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

500 Songs For Kids, Thursday, May 7th: Bain Mattox (Athens, Ga), Heather Luttrell, Andrew's Polyphonic Social (Gainsville, Ga), Attention System, Brandon Perry (Smyrna, Ga), Chinua Hawk, Chris Gray Band, Cindi Hall, Dong Man, Fat Chance, Futureshock, Gareth Asher, Hightide Blues, Idiot Slowdown, It's Elephant's, Jeff Schuelke, Jeremy Aggers, Juli Vaughn, Kahle Davis And The Nightwatchmen, Kortney Parman, Krissa Quill, Lefty Williams Band (Norcross, Ga), Lexi Street, Libras, Max Oginsky, Michael Magno, Misfortune500 (Athens, Ga), Mister Fernando, My Friend Ian's Band, Nathan Beaver And Ryan Rockitt, National Grain, Nicole Chillemi, Not From Here, Pearson Perry, Rachel Jennette, Rebecca Loebe, Sarah Mac Band, Scott Downes, Sealions, Shinebox, Sin Pretty, Spencer Durham (Dahlonega, Ga), Stacey Leigh Plunkett, Stellate, The Judies, The Sounds That Machines Make, Tonio, Ty Reynolds, Vinson Baker, Wesley Cook.

500 Songs For Kids, Wednesday, May 6th (local bands in bold): Five Eight (Athens, Ga), Ben Deignan, 13 Stories, Andrew Rudeseal/Holiday, Angelina Sarantis/Gypsypearl, Beastlier Boyz, Blacksmithz, Blake Guthrie And Getaway Car, Brandon Clark, Buckyhawg, Camila Liao, Dear Savannah, Duvasounds, Eleven Standing Still, Elli Perry, Erica Ambrose, Evan Mchugh, G Force, Garrett Moore, Great Society, Jasmine, John Mcnicholas, Johnny Bravo, Kelly Love Jones, Kurt Scobie, Lisa Crosby, Michael Lee Miller, Michael Levine, Michael Wynne, Mike Killeen, Mother Earth & Sun, Nick Edelstein, Queen Sheba, Reuben Bidez, Rova Zetella (Griffin, Ga), Roxis, Russ T Cobb, Sommer Melody, Stephen Norwood, Sun Domingo, Tendaberry, The Goodfight, The Holland Dutch, The Humms, The Julia Dream, The Lunatics, The Sundogs, The Unposted, Tony Towerz.

500 Songs For Kids, Tuesday, May 5th (local acts in bold): Gavin DeGraw, Meiko, (Nerdkween), Adam Ryan Jones (McDonough, Ga), Beggars Deceiver/Potter Andrews, Big Chad Famous, Breaking Twilight, Calling All Stars, Circus House Band, Crop Circle, Dolldaze, Doug Easterly (Roswell, Ga), Due Panic, Dwayne Waterman (Woodstock, Ga), Eller, Gerry Attrick And The Walkers, Headlock, Herb Jones, Hermon Hitson, Jennifer Bliss, Jimi Cravity, Jimmy Galloway, Jondonson, Jungol, Leaf, Mia V., Neon Madmen, Nobody's Darlings, Red Head Blonde, Safe Word, Sarah G., Sight Unseen, Slim Chance & The Convicts, Small Reactions, Steve Adkisson, Susi French Connection, SYDEFX, The 54, The Falcon Lords, The Go Steadys, The Graduates, The Kmacks, The Marys, The Serenade, The Shrubs, The Wild, Today The Moon, Tomorrow The Sun, TONOHONEY, Tyler Herrin/Erik Rostad, We Are All Nothing And Something (Carrollton, Ga).

500 Songs For Kids, Monday, May 4th: Abe Okie, Brain Box, Bria Kam Band, Brian Wiltsey, Coleman Fox & The Funky Broadways, Dare To Be, Diane Durrett, Dwight Raby, Grace Buford (Grayson, Ga), Hottboxx, Impulse Ride (Augusta, Ga), Jae Haeri, Jed Drummond, Johnny Mac And The Swingin' Diamonds, Kelly Murray, Ken Kiser, Kerry Hill Band, Kilmory, Kristen Hope Justice, LB Collective, Ledfoot Messiah, Lee Greenway, Levous, Liberty Jones, Liz Brown, Mad Mission, Martians See Red, Mike Lasage & The Stumbling Troubadours, Muffy, Night Driving In Small Towns, Oliver Hazard, Product Tm, Rolling Thunder Revue, Ryan Gay (Augusta, Ga), Scott Little Band, Spy For Hire, Suburban Grind (Woodstock, Ga), Super Hooligan, The Apostles, The Brotherland, The Dot Line Projekt, The F'n Heartbreaks, The Greater Vavoom, The Psychics, The Warm Fuzzies (Athen's, Ga), Wake To Day, What The...?, Wighat, Xclusiv.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

We wanted to turn ya'll on to a band we discovered while thumbing through the 500 Song's for Kids lineup called Night Driving in Small Towns. They are Andrea Rogers - lyrics, vocals, piano; Colby Wright - guitar, mandolin, banjo, drums and Daniel Gonzalez - guitars. They are a nice, mellow alternative country rock sound. While the lyrics are sharp,real and sometimes gloomy, you can't help but want to smile, dance and sing along. The interesting mix of soft and beautiful vocals, piano, mandolin and banjo create a diverse sound that is sure to please the most discriminating of music snobs. Check them out at Night Driving in Small Town's myspace page...and also at their band's page here. Check out their upcoming tour dates as they continue to pioneer through new and fresh frontiers in the Atlanta music scene. Truly a band you want to see...

May 1 2009

9:00P

Wonderroot w/ Greenland is Melting

Atlanta, Georgia

May 4 2009

8:00P

500 Songs for Kids -- Smith’s Olde Bar

Atlanta, Georgia

May 7 2009

8:00P

Masquerade

Atlanta, Georgia

May 29 2009

8:00P

Kavarna w/ The Blacktop Rockets

Decatur, Georgia

Jun 17 2009

8:00P

The Earl w/ The Tips

Atlanta, Georgia

Aug 14 2009

8:00P

Eddie’s Attic w/ Jackson County Line

Decatur, Georgia

500 Songs For Kids, Sunday, May 3rd: The Last Waltz Ensemble, The Yacht Rock Revue, Stonerider, Alexis Vear, Alf & The Frat Guys, Angie Goodale, Blue Flashing Light (Athens, Ga), Brian Bisky, Brodie, Chase56, Chris Arrison, Dillon Maurer, Dr. Lara Saville Dahl, Ebony, El Scorcho, English Nick & The Yanks, Eva Kennedy, Heston, J.R. Rund, Jamm, Jim Hodgson, Jumping Beans, Kecia Garland, Kush, Meredith Macdonald, Mike Renna, Morgan Bracy, New Territory, Not A Finger, Number 99, Nutbush, October's Eve, Overhead Ground, Ozlo, Paul Hedges, Rachel Pearl, Rashaad, Ryan Waters, Sean Thomason, Sidaerial, Slick & Rose, State Of Man, Stovall, Supercell, Tapestry, Ted Lee, Thayer Sarrano, The Crushers, Trina Mashell, When Rocky Beat The Russian

500 Songs Lineup for Sat May 2nd at Smith's Olde Bar - Altered, Amber Douglas And Jared Habeck, Amber Leigh, Arlington Priest, Atlanta Sedition Orchestra, Audrey Spillman, Ben Chapman (Blairsville, Ga), Brenda Nicole, C'beyohn, Calvin Payne, Chip Greene, Coyote Bones, Crack Jackon, David Koon, Dub3052, Envie, GG's, Greymarket, Joe Mcguinness, John Krueger, Julia Carroll, Khaos Da Rapper, Last, Laura Dees Band, Levi Lowrey (Dacula), Lloyd Sheppard, Marshall Ruffin (Columbus, Ga), Michele Kersey Of Noonday Blue With Jeff York And Bridget , Monahan (Athens) , Never Surrender, Oh Dorian (Macon, Ga), Paul Warner, Promise December, Roxie Randle, Ryan Hamner (Columbus, Ga), Safe Not Safe, Sean Kagalis, The Buck Buckley Band, The Cubists (Augusta, Ga), The Electric Cycles, The Four Kicks, The Nubies, The Ray Brothers, The Ruby Red's Band, The Wellreds, The Whiskey Theory, Treva & The Suits / Treva Blomquist, Trial By Fire, Tx/Rx.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Check out Atl Branded with Fear's upcoming tour...they have a new EP In my Head coming May 30th...so get that...support local bands...

May 2 2009 8:00P
The Masquerade w/ Vast Atlanta, Georgia
May 9 2009 9:00P
The Pit w/ Philler Jacksonville, Florida
May 22 2009 8:00P
Hard Rock Cafe w/ Asphalt Valentine Atlanta, Georgia
Jun 5 2009 9:00P
Fat Cats Austell, Georgia
Jun 26 2009 9:00P
The Vinyl - *CD Release Party* Atlanta, Georgia
Jul 31 2009 9:00P
The Scene Marietta, Georgia
Aug 7 2009 8:00P
Sector 7G - Back to School Bash Augusta, Georgia
Sep 11 2009 9:00P
Utica Music Festival Utica, New York
Sep 12 2009 9:00P
Utica Music Festival Utica, New York
Dec 31 2009 8:00P
Book BWF - booking@brandedwithfear.net Atlanta, Georgia

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

500 Songs for Kids Lineup FRIDAY, MAY 1ST - Patterson Hood and the Pack of Lies (Athens, Ga - featuring Patterson Hood, Shonna Tucker, John Neff, Brad Morgan and Jay Gonzalez), Angie Aparo, Francine Reed, Larry Wachs and Rock 100's Regular Guys, The Brilliant Inventions, 3rd Creek, Adam Dorfman, Age Of Consent, Andrea Nardello, Ashley Rivera (Lawrenceville) , Attila, Attractive Eighties Women, Bailey Player, Blaming Tim, Blue Screen Love Scene, Brown, Chanticleer Fox, Chris Weiser, Christie Cook / The Ruckus, Chrys Senon, Chuck Carrier, Dave Daniels, David Fountain, Eline and The Forget Me Nots, Faithless Town (formerly Gene Owens & The Easy Hearts), Fulturn Jones, Geoff Melkonian, Golden, Jarin, Jeff Hix & The Heretics, Josh and The Haircuts, Kitty Snyder, Love Like This, Olde Dog, Paris Luna, Rachel Little, She Came From Above, Shirleena Terrell, Stand Alone, Stef Dorfman, Sunset Soundtrack (Athens, Ga), The Beastly Boys, The Bretheren, The Daddy A Go Go Band, The Empties, The Nashvillain Family Band, Thinhorse, Titus, Wade In The Rhythm, Warm In The Wake

500 Songs for Kids begins tomorrow April 30th at Smith's Old Bar. It includes a large number of local acts as well as artists from all over the world, including some "major" names. Here is the list of bands for the opening night Thu April 30th. Check it out...we've highlighted all of the local acts, go 'em check out...

500 Songs lineup Apr 3oth - Amy Gerhartz, Angela Lavine, Besides Daniel, Billy Gewin, Bouldercrest Singing Group, Bruce Butkovich, Cassavetes, Chilton And Texbuksex, Dain Harris, Davin Mccoy, East Ponce Soul Faction, Eren Cannata, Ethan And The Ewox, Euni Rivera, Extreme Pain, Flee, Franklin Pond Chamber Music, Gift Horse (Athens, Ga), Hard Rain, Howlies, Jessica Cayne (Grayson, Ga), Jessie Bock & Livin' Easy (Lilburn, GA), Jordan Humphrey (Suwanee, Ga), Julie Gribble, Lil' Dude, Lindsay Rae Spurlock, Madam Cj, Morningside, Mudcat, New Radio Ramblers, Paul Banks (of Interpol), Paul Melancon, Playground Rivals, Quench, Rick Brantley, Seed And Feed Marching Abominable, Senorita Awesome, Sindhu Chandra Giedd, Soft Boys, Somarosa, South 70, Stereotype, Sundown, Terry Flynn (Smyrna, Ga), Tez Mcclain, The Cabaret Murder, The Constellations, The Return, The Seraphix, The Swear.

Check out The Local in Marietta, they are currently booking shows for July and August. Check out their myspace page and become their friends to keep up with upcoming events and shows. Bands - check out their sound system and perks.

The Bone Church - has a few dates coming up...check em out.

May 16 2009

7:00P

Burn the Fields (Metal Fest ’09)

MONROE, Georgia

May 30 2009

9:00P

The Local

Marietta, Georgia

Jun 6 2009

7:00P

Masquerade Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia

Jun 12 2009

7:00P

@mosphere’s

Loganville, Georgia

Jun 26 2009

9:00P

Sweetwater Live

Duluth, Georgia

Valbanera - have a new song and sound due out tonight (Mon Apr 27) on their myspace page. Hailing from Marietta/Roswell, Ga, Valbanera is a fresh mix of synth, harmonizing guitar and hardcore screamo with a pretty nice ring to it; however, they had this to say about the future: We are currently writing new songs that are different from the style of our last cd. We hope to save up some money and release an ep before the end of the year. They are apparently preparing to mix up their sound a little bit and make a break from their metalcore roots. They describe their new song Alaska is Snow Cool as a more musical older sounding song, but it has parts that are just as heavy...a more indie and early-post hardcore/emo feel to it. They have been playing together for about 3 years so we're really eager to see where they plan on taking the sound. They are Gavin (drums and screams), Brian (guitar and synth), Peyton (guitar and vocals), and Gabe (bass and vocals). Gavin and Brian are brothers and they have all known each other since grade school. We asked what the story behind the name is: Valbanera comes from a ship that sunk in the early 1900's. We just liked the name and thought it would help people remember us.

Check out their song Our Method to Remix on the video below. You can see more of their videos at Valbanera's youtube channel. Don't forget to check out their new song at their myspace on the link above. Buy their merch and first CD Short Stories Told to Kill Time on the link here to the left. Valbaners is a talented young group so I'd be looking out for their mark in the community in the coming years as they progress their sound and explore new planes. They recommend fellow Atlanta bands: She Came From Above, Have You Seen My Ghost, O' Brother, Banvard, and Ten Ohm Smoke. You can catch them at Swayze's in Marietta on Friday, May 15th. -- ak

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Don't forget to check out The Disregardables; they are currently on tour and playing a few shows in the area. Here are some of their upcoming shows...

May 8 2009

7:00P

Swayzes w/ Stuck Lucky

Marietta, Georgia

May 9 2009

9:00P

Longbranch Saloon w/ Stuck Lucky

Knoxville, Tennessee

May 23 2009

11:00A

Teen Stock

Peachtree City, Georgia

May 30 2009

12:00P

This is a Ska Fest?

Peachtree City, Georgia

Jun 6 2009

12:00P

Danfest @ The Complex

Crossville, Tennessee

Jun 12 2009

7:00P

1982 w/ Paranoia Dance Part

Gainesville, Florida

Jun 13 2009

2:00P

SKAFEST 2009! @ Transitions

Tampa, Florida

Jun 14 2009

7:00P

Black Box Collective

Orlando, Florida

Jun 20 2009

7:00P

Swayzes

Marietta, Georgia

Aug 8 2009

2:00P

Mass Ska Raid

Atlanta, Georgia

Stokeswood CD release show live at the Masquerade Fri Apr 17th

STOKESWOOD - we caught up with Stokeswood at their CD release show at the Masquerade for their first studio release Carassia (which has a story behind it; check Stokeswood's myspace page to read the history behind the album - its interesting to say the least). They have two other albums These Roses Red (2006) and The Cellar Door EP (2005). This new album, however is meant to redefine their sound a little bit. The album is good and its sure to bring this diverse and versatile sound some notice. Described as Progressive / Electroacoustic / Rock on their myspace page, Stokeswood by way of Carassia recalls a little Incubus meets Coldplay in my mind...they have an accent of soft, easy funk flowing with thoughtful, melodic lyrics. Here is a little about them from their myspace: An eclectic mix of percussion, strong vocals, story telling lyrics, powerful electric guitar and driving synths Stokeswood's sound is described as a Cosmic Waltz. Here is a video from the show...

Stokeswood formed in the summer of '04 when Mark Godwin (electric guitar) and Adam Patterson (acoustic guitar/lead vocals) decided to get together as a two piece. They played as a two piece releasing their previous album and EP. After about 3 years as a two piece they decided to put together the traditional act. After trying out some art school kids they turned to Jon Joiner (drums)and Reed Irvine (synth piano and keys), all of whom jammed together in college. Mark has known Reed since they were seven. Craig Gendreau is on percussion. Everyone in the band are Ga natives save Craig who moved down from Rhode Island. The band has toured the Southeast going as far west as Mississippi and as far south as Miami, which they noted was their favorite city to play. I mean, who wouldn't like Miami. This wasn't their first time at the Masquerade and these guys have frequented Vinyl but are currently looking to expand their horizons and play some new venues...so hook up with them to play some show...they'll definitely help to bring a crowd...they are developing quite the loyal fanbase.

Stokeswood CD release at the Masquerade

We asked Stokeswood how they felt about the Atlanta scene: Atlanta is a tough scene, we generally book two three months in advance but most venues around here tend to book local acts 1-2 months out which makes no sense and makes for some challenging calendar issues. Its becoming easier to gain new fans now that we have some quality recordings but i also get the feeling that we do have to go away to make a name for ourselves. when the hometown crowd comes out they treat us great. The thing about ATL that i notice is that there isnt really built in music crowds. But in cities like Miami or Columbia people go to venues to find new music and enjoy the live scene. Thats what we have been hearing and thats exactly why beatlanta came into being. We're looking for a revolution of local music in Atlanta. We want to help bring the scene as a whole more exposure. Soon enough we'll start are sites marketing campaign looking to boost exposure to Atlanta bands and artists...so be looking out for that. These guys were have spent the last year working on and recording Carassia so we were eager to hear their thoughts on file sharing...I was a fan of tape trading and file sharing in its new form. So for live recordings, file share away. But having just recorded an album for a year with our own money we definitly can relate with the anti-sharing camp. Ok, we can understand that, but how do you feel about the outrageous measures the RIAA has taken in suing fans and planning to cut off internet service? Its a little extreme, people are always going to do it. You just have to hope people get turned on enough to support your music and actually buy the record. Thats what we think here at beatlanta, see our blogs about the future of free. Artists will need to count on their live performances and new and creative ideas to earn their living. I asked the guys where they buy their shoes (because it was funny :) Ha! we all play barefoot minus Reed, i think he just got some shoes from Ross for 12 bucks.

These guys like to pepper the city with flyers to get their show advertised and rely on the internet for the most part, noting you can do press releases for free on some sites (stay tuned for beatlanta's resource section). They mention however, that word of mouth goes best in the Atl. You can find Stokeswood playing the UGA Outdoor fest in Athens Sat Apr 25th; they got asked back after playing an acoustic set last year. We asked Mark what his favorite song from Carassia was (if he had to choose a single): The Old 4th Ward - its about moving into the the old 4th ward and the diversity that is in the area. It was also a different stride in our writing style which has helped define our current sound. Thats cool, I used to live in the Old 4th Ward; my house burnt down there...true story, don't ask. It is quite the diverse area...they especially have just one kind of person:) -ak

Check more photos of Stokeswood in our more pics section...check out more on Stokeswood on their website stokeswood.net. You can see their EPK here. They have a few tour dates coming up but plan to really hit the road in support of Carassia in the fall. They recommend fellow atlanta bands Jungol and Odist. SUPPORT STOKESWOOD. GO TO THEIR SHOWS...IT IS WORTH THE TIME IF YOU LIKE GOOD MUSIC AND COOL MUSICIANS.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

Find info on the 21st annual Decatur Arts Festival at decaturartsfestival.com which will be Memorial Day weekend May 23rd and 24th with various events throughout May as well.

Atlanta heavyweights Gringo Star are getting ready to embark on World Tour. Check out their dates and some of their videos...and be sure to subscribe to their youtube channel. They have some dates with the Black Lips...its sure to be an aweome tour.

Apr 17 2009

9:00P

Head on the Door

Montgomery, Alabama

Apr 18 2009

9:00P

The Loft

Columbus, Georgia

Apr 26 2009

7:00P

Hamburg, Germany

Apr 27 2009

7:00P

Debaser w/ Trail of Dead

Malmo, Sweden

Apr 28 2009

7:00P

Rockefeller w/ Trail of Dead

Oslo, Norway

May 1 2009

7:00P

Debaser Medis w/ Trail of Dead

Stockholm, Sweden

May 3 2009

7:00P

Vega w/ Trail of Dead

Copenhagen, Denmark

May 5 2009

7:00P

Kesselhaus w/ Trail of Dead

Berlin, Germany

May 6 2009

7:00P

Roxy w/ Trail of Dead

Prague, Czech Republic

May 7 2009

7:00P

WuK w/ Trail of Dead

Vienna, Austria

May 9 2009

4:00P

Estragon (Rocker fest) w/ Trail of Dead

Bologna, Italy

May 10 2009

7:00P

Mascotte w/ Trail of Dead

Zurich, Switzerland

May 11 2009

6:00P

Muffathalle w/ Trail of Dead

Munich, Germany

May 12 2009

7:00P

Mousonturm w/ Trail of Dead

Fankfurt, Germany

May 14 2009

7:00P

Live Music Hall w/ Trail of Dead

Cologne, Germany

May 15 2009

7:00P

Trent University w/ The Black Lips

Nottingham, England

May 16 2009

7:00P

Drowned In Sound w/ The Black Lips

Sheffield. England

May 17 2009

7:00P

The Globe w/ The Black Lips

Cardiff, Wales

May 18 2009

7:00P

Firebug

Leicester, England

May 20 2009

7:00P

TJ’s w/ The Black Lips

Leeds, England

May 21 2009

6:00P

Sound in the City Festival

Liverpool, England

May 22 2009

7:00P

Crawdaddy w/ The Black Lips

Dublin, Ireland

May 23 2009

7:00P

Glasgow, Scotland

May 24 2009

7:00P

Academy 3 w/ The Black Lips

Manchester, England

May 25 2009

7:00P

Freebutt

Brighton, England

May 26 2009

7:00P

Electric Ballroom w/ The Black Lips

London, England

May 28 2009

7:00P

Water Rats

London, England

May 29 2009

7:00P

The Windmill

London, England

May 30 2009

8:00P

Bacup Leisure Hall

Bacup, England

May 31 2009

8:00P

The Joiners

South Hampton, England

Jun 1 2009

8:00P

The Bassment

Chelmsford, England

Jun 2 2009

7:00P

Manuscript

Ostend, Belgium

Jun 3 2009

7:00P

Paridiso

Amsterdam, Holland

Jun 4 2009

7:00P

Ekko

Utrecht, Holland

Check out Fishhawk's latest video: pretty freakin cool...it has some of their otehr stuff too. And check out reverbnation.com for some cool widgets to add to your band website. Its def has some pretty cool resources available for bands.

Last November - We wanted to let ya'll know what Atl band Last November is up to. They were nominated new top 40 group in 2008 by New Music Weekly (NMW). They are quickly becoming one of the top acts out of Atlanta right now (originally from Cleveland, Ga) and are set to be pretty big nationally. I have not seen them live yet but hearing their stuff brings up thoughts of Dashboard Confessional meets Jacks Mannequin, without the piano. In their bio they mention influence Brand New and have worked Under the guidance of platinum-selling producer Steven Haigler (Brand New, Fuel, Oleander, Pixies, As Tall as Lions.) Click here to check out their bio. They have a focus on thoughtful and emotional lyrics. Visit Last November's myspace page to see what they are up to. They have a lot of useful stuff on their myspace page and band site lastnovember.com including a list of nationwide radio stations and their contact info to call and request their new single. They also have info on how to vote to get them to play your college campus...so they're doing some pretty cool stuff to get their music out there. Definitely some stuff to think about doing. Here is their upcoming tour. They are playing a free show Thu April 23rd at the Star Bar. Last November is Luke Pilgrim - Vocals & Guitar; Tyler Ayers - Bass & Vocals; Taylor Woodruff - Drums & Vocals; Zach Baxter - Guitar. They have all of their music available for download at www.purevolume.com/lastnovember. Just another example of a band giving their music away for free and taking to the road for the $$$ (check out our blogs about the future of free and music).

Apr 17 2009

5:00P

On air with Chaos at Rock 103 Columbus Ga Listen on line here www.rock103online.com

Columbus, Georgia

Apr 17 2009

10:00P

Soho

Columbus, Georgia

Apr 23 2009

10:00P

Star Bar - FREE Show presented by Have you heard dot net - 21+

Atlanta, Georgia

Apr 30 2009

8:00P

Tremont Music Hall

Charlotte, North Carolina

May 2 2009

7:30P

Schools Almost Out, Celebration! - The Loading Dock! ALL AGES (entrance behind the Radio Shack)

Cleveland, Georgia

May 8 2009

8:00P

Jack Sprat’s

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

May 14 2009

8:00P

More Info Soon

TBA, Florida

May 15 2009

10:00P

Florida Music Festival - Main Stage

Orlando, Florida

May 16 2009

8:00P

Florida Music Festival

Orlando, Florida

May 29 2009

8:00P

Sector 7G - ALL AGES

Augusta, Georgia

Jun 27 2009

6:30P

More info soon

TBA, Georgia

Jul 16 2009

8:00P

Turner Field

Atlanta, Georgia

Dec 31 2009

8:00P

Bring Last November to your Campus or Venue! Email booking@lastnovember.com

Your Town

THE VERDICT IS IN ON THE PIRATE BAY TRIAL - check out our blogs following the trial and let us know what you think by posting your thoughts and comments to the most recent blog about the verdict. We'd like to start a conversation about what you musicians and fans think about suing over file sharing...so let us know what you think by posting a comment.

-------------------------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC----------------------------------------------------

SIBERIA MY SWEET - formed in 2005 and while we didn't know them in their early days strikes me as one of those bands thats been kicking ass from the start and worked hard to get to where they are. Siberia My Sweet is Kelly Andrews on vocals and guitar, Luci Harrell on lead guitar, Monty Lee on Bass, Chad Black on drums, Erin Sellers on keyboard and guitar. Kelly, Monty and Luci have known each other a long time from the Atl scene and they found Chad in an online music add (use our posts section). They didn't have any easy time getting noticed when they first formed and Kelly attributes their dedication and hard work to their success of etching out their ever growing loyal following. ...recently it has been good though; great in fact; says Kelly about how the community has responded to them recently. The band has a very melodic ambient sound and Kelly Andrews is amazing in front of the mic. They bring waves of guitar and keys transferring dark but soft melody that hits you hard and makes you want to dance at the same time. I would recommend this band to anyone who likes good music...especially good local music. Luci Harrell is amazing on guitar and Chad Black is the perfect addition of backbone and rhythm. They sound amazing.

Siberia My Sweet live at the Drunken Unicorn

We asked Kelly what she thinks about the Atlanta music community...I think that certain bands are fabulous about supporting their friends and just in general, supporting music they like. It’s always great seeing different types of people, who play different genres of music, out at totally different types of shows than what you’d expect. I do however feel that the scene here is so diverse (which is great) however the backbone of support that used to govern the city is absent which is disappointing. I feel that Atlanta has the potential for a great scene, but people need to be willing to go the distance and support that scene. Possibly because of economic hard times, people aren’t as willing as I would like. However, the other night at DU (Drunken Unicorn) definitely helps to restore hope. They have found more success outside of Atlanta but cite only the reason "you’re never a prophet in your own back yard." They started touring outside of Atlanta not too long ago and have been doing amazing. They have played regional venues in Columbus and Macon and recently made it down to Austin, Texas for SXSW for the first time and then around to Tampa and said they had an awesome time.

Siberia My SweetSiberia My Sweet is part of the Medusa Collection, a group of five bands of similar genres that have banded together to get their music more exposure and to ensure that they always have a good show (see our story on Promise December below). The band recommends fellow Atl bands Attention System, Spy for Hire, Feeding Fingers, Promise December, Envie, Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun, Opaq Face, Entertainment, The Drownout, TXRX, Vera Fang and Snowden. You can find these guys and gals hangin out at the Clairmont Lounge, Lenny's, the Highlander and Vinyl. We asked the band a couple more questions: How do you feel about the future of the music industry? We feel that it’s going to be completely digital and there will be (and are) a great many avenues for independent artists to take. We will all be able to take a number of strategic steps toward marketing our music exactly how we want it to be marketed. How do you feel about file sharing? Do you feel its detrimental to the industry or do you find it a good thing - to help more people hear more music? As Luci (our guitar player would say) “hell yeh, steal my shit bitch!”, we’re all good for being robbed – just give us the exposure. (Hey you so called major labels and the RIAA who are suing kids - thats Atlanta artists - 12 so far that we've interviewed - and you 0. The future of the music industry want their shit shared.) Check out a video of Siberia My Sweet and more on the band about three stories down this page. Videos of the band can also be found at beatlanta's youtube channel and more pics found by clicking more pics in the menu above. Please check out their songs and influences on Siberia My Sweet's myspace page. GO SEE SIBERIA MY SWEET when you have the chance. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. - ak

MASTODON - kicked off their US tour this past Friday. Apparently the new set is really awesome utilizing psychedelic backdrop videos and amazing light patterns. Mastodon is quickly becoming one of the nations top metal acts with their abrasive, hard to categorize unique take on metal..but they are redefining the way people think about and hear metal music. They formed in 2000, cut a demo and hit the road relentlessly. Relapse records quickly snatched them up citing their "out of this world" live performance as enough to know that this band is going places. We're proud to call them an Atlanta band. To those of you looking to catch one of their shows this time around here is their tour dates...their playing a lot ot dates with Metallica, Slipknot and a lot of other really awesome metal bands. They'll be in Atlanta at Center Stage Fri May 15th (with a few dates close to hear in SC before that).

Other Bands

Date	Location
04/15/2009	The Launchpad- Albuquerque - MySpace Secret Show	MySpace Secret Show- Albuquerque
04/16/2009	Marquee - Tempe, AZ	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/18/2009	COACHELLA - Empire Polo Field, Indio, CA
04/19/2009	Great American Music Hall - San Francisco, CA SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/21/2009	Hawthorne Theatre - Portland, OR SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/22/2009	Neumos - Seattle, WA SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/23/2009	Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, CAN SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/24/2009	MacEwan Ballroom - Calgary, CAN	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/25/2009	Starlite Room - Edmonton, CAN	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/26/2009	Odeon Nite Club - Saskatoon, CAN	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/28/2009	The Garrick - Winnipeg, CAN	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/29/2009	Fine Line Music Cafe - Minneapolis, MN SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
04/30/2009	Metro - Chicago, IL SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/01/2009	Crofoot Ballroom - Pontiac, MI	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/02/2009	Beachland Ballroom - Cleveland, OH SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/04/2009	Le National - Montreal, CAN	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/05/2009	Opera House - Toronto, CAN SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/07/2009	House Of Blues - Boston, MA	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/08/2009	Theater of Living Arts - Philadelphia, PA	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/09/2009	Fillmore NY at Irving Plaza - New York, NY SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/10/2009	Music Hall of Williamsburg - Brooklyn, NY SOLD OUT	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/12/2009	9:30 Club - Washington DC	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/13/2009	Cat's Cradle - Carrboro, NC	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/14/2009	Orange Peel - Asheville, NC	with Kylesa and Intronaut
05/15/2009	Center Stage - Atlanta, GA	with Kylesa and Intronaut
06/14/2009	Helsinki, FIN - Hartwall Areena - SOLD OUT	Metallica
06/15/2009	Helsinki, FIN - Hartwall Areena - SOLD OUT	Metallica
06/17/2009	Spektrum - Oslo, NOR - SOLD OUT	Metallica
06/19/2009	Novarock Festival - Nickelsdorf, AUS	Metallica....
06/20/2009	Sonisphere - Goffert Park, Nijmegen, HOL	Metallica, Slipknot....
06/22/2009	Datch Forum - Milan, ITA - SOLD OUT	Metallica
06/24/2009	Palalottomatica - Rome, ITA - SOLD OUT	Metallica
06/27/2009	Dessel, BEL - Graspop Festival
06/28/2009	Milan, ITA - Gods of Metal
06/30/2009	Athens, GRE - Rockwave Festival
07/03/2009	Nr Leipsig, GER - Full Force Festival
07/04/2009	Sonisphere - HockenheimRing, Hockenheim, GER	Metallica...
07/05/2009	Rock Werchter - Werchter, BEL	Metallica...
07/06/2009	Paris, FRA - Trabendo	Headline Show
07/09/2009	Lisbon, PRT - Optimus Alive! '09 -	Metallica....
07/11/2009	Sonisphere - The Forum, Barcelona, SPN	Metallica, Slipknot...
07/13/2009	Palacio de Deportes - Madrid, SPN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/14/2009	Madrid, SPN - Palacio de Deportes - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/16/2009	Hallenstadion - Zurich, SWI - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/18/2009	Sonisphere - Folkets Park, Hulstfred, SWE	Metallica...
07/20/2009	Copenhagen Forum - Copenhagen, DEN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/22/2009	Copenhagen Forum - Copenhagen, DEN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/23/2009	Copenhagen Forum - Copenhagen, DEN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/25/2009	Sonisphere - Kirjurinluoto, Pori, FIN	Metallica, Linkin Park...
07/27/2009	Copenhagen Forum - Copenhagen, DEN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/28/2009	Copenhagen Forum - Copenhagen, DEN - SOLD OUT	Metallica
07/30/2009	Oslo, NOR - Spektrum - SOLD OUT	Metallica
08/01/2009	Dublin, IRE - Marlay Park	Metallica
08/02/2009	Sonisphere - Knobworth House, Stevenage, UK	Metallica....

If you want an idea of what their playing here is their double set list from the opening show:

Oblivion
Divinations
Quintessence
The Czar"
Ghost of Karelia
Crack The Skye

The Last Baron
Bladecatcher
Colony of Birchmen
The Wolf Is Loose
Crystal Skull
Capillarian Crest
Seabeast
Iron Tusk
March of the Fire Ants
Hearts Alive

Click here to read more about the show on spin.com.

-------------------------------SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC--------------------------------

PROMISE DECEMBER

Promis December at the Drunken UnicornThese guys played their fourth show ever as Promise December, after forming about a year ago, this past Friday at The Drunken Unicorn and it was an awesome show. We managed to get with the guys and ask them some questions. They are a 5 piece band with a somewhat dark new wave alternative kind of thing going on. We really enjoyed ourselves. With guitar riffs that carry and vocals that pierce Promise December is Moxy on Guitar, David on vocals, Bruce on the other guitar, Chris on bass and Matt on drums. Moxy and David are both from Florida but met in LA some time ago and later played in a band with Bruce in Orlando. They all wound up in Atlanta separately and started to play again in a band called Dead as Romance where they found Chris to play bass. Matt the drummer is a newcomer to the group who they met when looking for a drummer for Promise December.

David from Promise December These guys mentioned influences such as The Cure, The Cult and Peter Murphy and said they grew up on early MTV stuff. At first when asked they said they played acid death metal but they were of course kidding. The main influence all around sounds like The Cure and while they said that what everyone compares them to I am going to do it again. I went up to a girl in the crowd and asked what she thought the band sounded like and amazing enough, she said the Cure. It was her first time seeing them. These guys are by no means a Cure replica though. The vocals and the instrumental, especially guitar, set them apart and they have their own sound (they bring the noise a little harder too) but if you're a fan of bands such as the Cure you def want to check these guys. David the singer had this to say about being compared to the Cure: "We’ve been doing this a long time so at this point we stopped being what the trend was and basically starting making stuff we like; if you do that you’re influences will come out anyway. A lot of bands you can kind of tell if they sound just like the cure; we have a lot of different types of songs I guess…a lot of different things we like."

They have been in many different bands throughout the years and their experience definitely shows. A couple of them spent time playing in bands in L.A. so they have some grind under their belt. We asked the Moxy (him Dave played in LA) how he feels about the Atlanta scene compared to how things are in Atlanta: Well that was a very different time. Back then kids seemed to be really excited about new music and went looking for it. But I am not so sure that is the case anymore even in places like LA and NY. But I actually prefer places like Atlanta or Orlando. Here every band is not chasing the latest signed bands trying to cop their sound, so the diversity I think is much more apparent here. Do you find it easy to get noticed in Atlanta? In Atlanta clubs are about your draw. A promoter told me a few months back that there are a ton of bands that suck but draw and a ton of really cool bands that don't. Which kind of puts a guy trying to keep a club a float in a tough position. So it is tough to make a dent in the scene. Unless you have a ton of friends willing to come out and see you regularly it can be a tough road. That is why getting the word out is so important. It can be tough to get a consistent crowd here in town. And most of the bands that I know work really hard to make the show successful so that they will be asked back. But out of town you usually just show up and a lot of times you may be doing something different that might get you noticed. But more times than not it's the same story everywhere you go. Being in a local original band is harder than ever today.

This is why these guys and a few other bands have taken it upon themselves to form a coalition of sorts of Atlanta bands that play what they referred to as the darkwave sound...they refer to it as The Medusa Collection which is made up of 5 bands that have a similar influence of 80's and 90's darkwave bands. They try to book shows together and support each other to build that scene in Atlanta. The other members of "The Medusa Collection" are Entertainment, Attention System, Siberia My Sweet and Feeding Fingers. We think its a great idea and a good way to get your sound noticed by the fans of your genre. It is for sure something bands should think about...but beatlanta is here to make it a little easier...hopefully. Check this video from the show and decide on the sound for yourself...

Promise December advertises their shows on the internet using myspace and facebook and even bought an add on myspace to get the word out on this show. It was a nice crowd but it was that day of heavy rain (I got soaked and had wet socks the whole show) and tornado warnings and shit...but the fans still managed to make it out and despite my wet socks I enjoyed the show. They welcome any new ways to advertise their shows - so use our posts section; Everyone! please use our posts section to advertise your band and shows or anything you want. We asked the guys what how they feel about file sharing: For an unsigned band like us file sharing is great, just to get the music out. I guess if we had a deal and hoped to make money off of selling records I might feel a little different. But then again, there are many of our favorite bands that don't even have record deals anymore and still make money going on the road. So I think any band that are really good can make a living playing live and if file sharing helps them grow their crowd than so be it." They recommended other Atlanta bands Satellite District, Today The Moon Tomorrow The Sun, This Piano Plays Itself, Spy For Hire and James Hall. They are working plans to be in the studio this Summer to produce an 8 to 10 album EP so you will definitely want to be looking out for that. Check out more vidoes of them at beatlanta's youtube channel and check out more pics of the band in beatlanta's very own more pics section - so cleverly named. Promise December had a lot of cool things and experience to share and they may want to be someone that you other bands use to network. They have some useful and fresh things to say about getting your sound out there and what it means to be a local band in today's technology and short attention span dominated industry. Thanks for the interview guys. CHECK OUT PROMISE DECEMBER NEXT TIME YOU'RE GIVEN THE CHANCE. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC. - ak.

info from songsforkidsfoundation.orgThe event will be help Thurdsay, April 30th to Saturday, May 9th. See below for info on becoming a performer...and see to the right for some of the bands playing and show dates.

We are proud and excited to announce that the biggest music charity event in Georgia history is back!

500 SONGS FOR KIDS kicks off APRIL 30th, 2009, at Smith's Olde Bar, where once again 500 DIFFERENT ARTISTS will hit the stage to benefit SONGS FOR KIDS FOUNDATION'S work with children's charities. Get ready to feel the love for 10 marathon nights, as this time we bring you...

THE 500 MOST PASSIONATE SONGS OF ALL TIME!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THIS YEAR'S COUNTDOWN!

If you would like to perform, please click here to apply.

Siberia My Sweet

Check this video from the show this past Friday. This is Siberian My Sweet. They are amazing and they have a huge and very supportive fan base. Id be looking out for these guys and gals. Here is a bio taken from their myspace. Hopefully we'll have an interview coming soon. Siberia My Sweet is an Atlanta based project with a goal to expand the landscape for new wave alternative rock by combining ambient subtlety with a melodic, yet more abrasive, core than the current standard. Forging a harmonious blend of opposites, the music creates a unique beauty that combines both the hard with the soft. Formed in the fall of 2005 by vocalist Kelly Andrews, Siberia My Sweet saw the addition of Chad Black (drums) and Luci Harrell (guitar) in 2006. Additionally Monty Lee (bass) and Erin Sellers (keys) were added in 2008, completing the current line-up. Currently showcasing in the southeastern region, Siberia My Sweet is well on its way to making an impact that won’t go unnoticed. This band is one you'll definitely want to check out. They def have a somewhat dark, very melodic thing going on and they make you want to move. Not one song left the crowd unpleased and it was hard to take your eyes off of Kelly Andrews. She has the lead singer moves down pact and her voice is mesmerizing. If you like good music its hard not to like Siberia My Sweet...more to come.

Carrie Nations Reunion Show - Athens, Ga 4.9.09

Carrie Nations - photos by Chris Fuller

Carrie Nation's is a Punk Band from Athen's Georgia. They've been dormant since they played their last show in Athen's in June of '05. This past Thursday they played their first show since then in Athen's and people were talking. During their few year stint they quickly developed a large and loyal fan base that was just awaiting their return. They have 3 albums out:

Be Still CD (Plan-It-X Records) 2003
Be Still LP (Bitter Like The Bean Records) 2004
Carrie Nations/This Bike Is A Pipe Bomb 7" (Shake Records/Plan-It-X Records) 2004

They are Andre on Guitar; Ian on Guitar; John on base; Forest on drums. After they broke up in 2005 they went on to play in different bands. You could find their various members in bands such as American Cheeseburger, Hot New Mexicans and Dark Meat. We're not sure of the status of those bands or what they plan to do with Carrie Nations but if you're a fan this was sure to please...and hopefully they'll keep it coming. Here is an article about the band taken from a newspaper and republished on a website without credit so we're not gonna give it either (but it's a pretty good article):

To say that Carrie Nations blurred the lines between pop punk, indie pop and punk rock is quite an understatement. CN beat the hell out of those lines and topped off the brutality with one of the most energetic live shows you could ever hope to see. Carrie Nation's album Be Still will always have a place in my top ten and filed underperfect pop record.

Of the many times I saw Carrie Nations play live the first was the absolute most fun. The show took place at a hidden spot called Hobo Beach in Pensacola, Fl. After parking your car (or riding your bike, of course) and making your way up a steep embankment, you walked along the railroad tracks for about a quarter mile, hoping with all your might that a train didn't come while crossing the rail bridge across the bay. Once across the bay you had to find a tiny little path leading through the woods that opened up to a small half-clearing right on the water.

What's a half clearing? Nothing really, just a spot with five or six feet between the trees. This Bike Is A Pipe Bomb kicked off the gas-fueled generator show, playing for the 30 or so kids crammed between them and the water, peeking out from behind and from up in trees and trying not to dance ourselves into the water.

If you've ever seen Pipe Bomb play live you know they're quite possibly one of the funnest dance party inducing bands imaginable. After that I didn't think CN could top em. I never should have doubted their pop-dance party skills, though. CN rocked that tiny crowd on that tiny beach so hard we nearly couldn't stand to continue dancing.

When they finally announced "this is our last song" and ripped into a quick 45 second pop gem, strumming the last note on the guitar at the absolute very second that the generator ran out of fuel, killing their amps and the tiny bare light bulb that had been illuminating the dark wooded spot. Standing there in the darkness, weak-kneed and panting, smiling like all hell, I knew this band was special.

Here's a couple questions taken from an interview with Andre on Guitar by Rich at Orlando Fest 2003 from plan-it-x.org.

Can you tell us a bit about the women the band is named after for those who don't know?

Hatchet Carrie, axe in one hand, bible in the other. she was a teetotaler last century, also its the name of a fake band in a really bad movie. that band was awesome, and we are infamous whistle wetters. so i guess its a joke sorta to us.

What were the original goals and have they been met?

The only goal in the beginning was to play rock music in a way that wasn't trendy or bloated, real tight and to the point. i think we have accomplished that. everything else is just fate laziness and ingenuity.

What bands influence you?

We are definitely an influenced band. from 60s and 70s rock like the who and thin lizzy, punk bands, every power pop band ever, lots of replacements-esque college rock, the country jangle pop of our hometown, but mostly early nineties indie rock, all the shit we heard growing up, and every band we have played with.

What would have to happen for you to think that Carrie Nations should not play together anymore?

Anything could happen, we grow up, we change. being in a working band is hard on relationships, dreams, bank accounts. its difficuly to balance your dreams in music and working on that career daily, especially as a diy band, and trying to feel safe and secure with the rest of your life and kids, debt, anything could happen. but never because we dont love it anymore.

Check out their sound at their myspace.

Carrie Nations

We just added photo galleries in our more pics section of Atlanta bands:
Siberia My Sweet and Promise December...be looking out for our interviews and videos of them coming soon.

Hurricanes of Love (Atl), North Trolls (Atl) and The Drones live at The Earl this past Sunday.

Here is a video of the North Trolls rockin out before the Drones take the stage this past Sunday at The Earl. The video is by Chris Fuller and he mixed in live recorded Audio as well so give him props when you see him. This video is amazing and the North Trolls are awesome. Check em...yes thats Gus on vocals when you don't see anyone singing. Drums and vocals...quite the talented dude (we love Gus)...you can see an interview and more videos of the North Trolls toward the bottom of the page...and you can check out even more videos of them at beatlanta's youtube page.

We'll have an interview with Hurricanes of Love coming soon...as soon as Michael Jefts gives it to us...so be on the lookout for that. The Hurricanes of Love are an awesome folky act with lyrics and vocals that screach and give you chills...I wasn't able to make it the show myself but I heard the audio from the show and its pretty cool.

Here is the video from Twin Thunder that we promised. It is pretty fucking awesome...

You can find the interview from Mitchell in the band about two articles down. You are definitely going to want to check these guys out. I wasn't able to make it to the show myself (Chris took the video) but I can't wait until I have a chance to check them out. They have a CD release party at 529 on Tuesday, April 28th. They played to a pretty packed house and Chris says the show was pretty amazing.

Live at The Drunken Unicorn: Armed Forces, It's Elephants (Atl), Spy for Hire (Atl-Columbus) & Winter Ransom (Atl)

It's Elephants

You're gonna want to see Atl veterans It's Elephants when you get a chance. While I was quite tired when I saw them after being up for 20 hours straight I still managed to have a great time when they took the stage. I heard they had a somewhat rock soul thing going on from the lead singer of another Atlanta band and I guess I can agree, but they rock out a little harder and add some cool keyboards and other instruments not usually found in your traditional rock soul sort a thing. Consisting of members of former bands The Letters Organize and Rehab, they took the stage and immediately had the crowd going. It's Elephants is Brent Jay on Guitar and lead vocals and sometimes bass; Barret Range on bass, backup vocals and sometimes guitar; David Fountain on guitar, vocals, piano, and various other stuff; and Justin Shotwell plays drums. The band also added that Justin loves Tears for Fears. Brent and David went to High School together in Conyers and Justing and Garret went to High School together in Loganville. Brent had a short career as a rapper in middle school; we would have loved to hear that guys. About two years ago David returned from living in New York at the same time Brent and Garret were ending a few year stint in The Letters Organize and the guys just sort of fell into playing music again. They later added Justin on drums describing him as "a magical kick in the ass, the missing piece" for the band.

It's ElephantsTheir band name derives from a children book entitled Whose Peanut is this? in which you're are told at the end of the book you're are told It's Elephants. So that name just stuck with us for whatever reason says David from the band. The band released a full length album in 2008 titled Little Trouble in Chinatown and are releasing a 10 inch in June titled To Hell with the Beetles (yes thats Beetles). The new album is pretty kick ass and the band describes it as Fugazi meets the Beach Boys adding does that make any sense? I guess we can see that. So be looking out for that new album people. This is one you're going to want to get. If for anything just to see what Fugazi meets the Beachboys sounds like :)

It's ElephantsAs you may know we have a focus on the future of the music industry and filesharing here at beatlanta and we like to know what our local musicians think about it. We asked these guys what they thought about the future of the music industry...David from the band had this to say: Well I think you have to separate music from the music industry to really answer that question. People who say that music sucks right now are lazy. There is wonderful music being made, but you actually have to search to find it. In the 60s, only artists on labels could afford studio time. Now anyone can do it in their basement. The pool of artists is much larger now, but that's what pushes artists to better themselves, to stand out somehow. The idea that creativity ruled the charts in the 60s is pure romanticism. Did you know that in 1966 alone, 10 versions of the Beatles' Yesterday were released by major labels? Good artists, too: Marianne Faithful, The Supremes, Jan and Dean...Which really just proves the point that the music industry has always been an opponent of art and creativity. And the increasing pool of artists threatens that. So, music is still good, the music industry is still slipping towards insignificance. Well we couldn't agree more here at beatlanta. We love the music being made in Atlanta right now and feel our scene is on the verge of greatness. We want to help lead the revolution in a new notice of local music and pride in your local scene. We also want to help lead the fight for technology as the RIAA continues to reign down nonsence on technology and filesharing. David had this to say about file sharing; its pretty funny. Power to the people. Download. And if you find a band you love, go to their shows, bring your friends, buy their albums. Also, I would like to publicly state that I downloaded Metallica songs off Napster. Sue me, Lars. I, writer for beatlanta.com, fucking hates Lars Ulrich by the way. Please check out my blogs about the RIAA and file sharing on our blogs page as we continue to take lead in Atlanta for the people against insane laws that prosecute regular people for being music lovers.

It's ElephantsThese guys recommend you check out fellow Atlanta bands: Fight to the Death, Whores, Dave Daniels and the PTA, Green Monster, Long Shadows, Wighat, Predator, Can Can and Old Custer, adding that there's Good bands abound...and we agree. Here at beatlanta we also want bands to help each other with advertising their shows in new and creative ways. So far almost every band we've talked to have mentioned the obvious such as Facebook, Myspace, It's Elephants were the first to add twitter to that list and also had to say this: Smoke signals, messages in bottles, and carrier pigeons. Honestly, at first it's a matter of begging your friends to come and bring their friends. Then there's this weird invisible barrier of moving beyond that. But there's no shortage of ways to promote - Myspace, Facebook, Twitter are the obvious ones. Go to Little 5 and play in front of the stores on a Saturday. Hand out fliers. Take your CDs and slip them into the displays at Starbucks with a sticker that says Free! and show information. Great ideas guys. We want ya'll to check this video of It's Elephants from their show at the Drunkin Unicorn...its pretty rockin.

These guys love to play at The Earl and The Drunken Unicorn and say they really love how good the sound guys are at these venues (Kurt and Chad respectively), adding that they love the food as well. They had this to say about other venues in Atlanta and outside of Atlanta: Wonderoot is a blast. 529 is new but it's a GREAT venue. Tiny stage, cramped room, beautiful bartenders. It's impossible for anyone to leave frowning or sober. Outside of Atlanta, I really like The Real Gypsy in Greenville and The Social in Orlando. And Flicker in Athens too. The last question we managed to get to the guys was about the Atlanta scence. We love the Atlanta scene and its the major reason we started this sight. We know quite a few guys in a lot of the bands in the Atl and as we come across more and meet more people in bands they always seem to be real cool and welcoming. It's Elephants had this to say: I played in bands in New York for a few years and had a horrible time trying to get anything going. It's millions of bands and everyone is clawing at each other, all convinced that their next gig will make them huge stars. Atlanta is SO much different, and honestly it's a lot better. Bands help bands, people support each other. Sure we've got our share of pretentious hipsters who care about style over substance, but for the most part, art affects people on a visceral level here. But if you want to "make it", however you choose to define that, you have to tour. And that's a lot easier to do (In Atlanta).

These guys have style, experience and class. Support them by coming out to their shows and make sure you grab up that 10 inch in June. They are playing at Lenny's this Tuesday, April 7th and they would love to see you out there. Check out more videos of It's Elephants at beatlanta's youtube channel.

-- ak

Winter Ransom (and two dudes on the side)Winter Ransom - check out the video from their recent show at the Drunken Unicorn. I asked a fan that was at the show who they reminded her of and she couldn't get away from Taking back Sunday; but think Bloc Party meets Finch. I personally like the sound; I thought they were energetic and the vocals sounded great. We sent out for an interview with the band but haven't heard back yet but hopefully they will get back to us soon. Meanwhile, check out some pics on our more pics section and take a look at this video (find more videos of them at beatlanta's youtube channel). Minus Driver was a pretty major player in the Atlanta scene. We just remember their shows being advertised on the late 99x.

Here is a little description taken from their myspace page: Winter Ransom consists of two former members of the Atlanta band,[minus.driver], and two brothers with the last name Longino. The band formed in late 2005, but the music is a result of a friendship that has grown over the past 10 years. Bucking trends, they are able to create completely honest songs that transcend the barrier of genre.

Winter Ransom

Check out the more pics section. We just added galleries for Atl bands Winter Ransom; Spy for Hire and It's Elephants. Be looking for those videos and interviews coming shortly.

Twin Thunder - photo by Chris Fuller

We caught up with Atler's Twin Thunder this past Tuesday at Wonderroot when they played with Mose Giganticus and Emotron. We got a video coming soon but in the meantime check the interview by Chris with Mitchell from the band...Twin Thunder has a cool soft sound in the tradition of...well check them out and decide for yourself. The video will be up soon. Meanwhile check it at the Myspace.

1. Who is in the band?

- Amanda Brawner, Mitchell Hardage, Jay Howell, Scott Ritchey, and Luke Tanner

2. Do you have any recordings?

- We started recording an EP in Luke's basement on Halloween 2007. For various reasons, the tracking sessions kept getting delayed, but we finally had everything we needed in 2008. I spent a lot of time mixing and re-mixing while we saved up enough money to get it mastered. Once it was mastered, it sat on the shelf for an even longer period of time while we saved up money to get it pressed. One day, I noticed that my bank account had just over a thousand dollars, which was the exact amount of money we needed to get our album pressed and for me to be really really poor for a month. So I bit the bullet and got it pressed, and an album that has been two years in the making is finally coming out at our CD release show on April 28th at the 529.

3. How do you feel about the future of the music industry?

- This is a time when anybody can make an album in their bedroom and upload it on the internets, and it's suddenly available to everybody in the world. So unless they find a way to capitalize on that, the industry part of music is looking pretty bleak. But from a consumer's perspective, things couldn't look better. Music is cheaper, easier to get, and more diverse now than it has ever been. Then again, I'm counting on a digital apocalypse to go down in 2012, so maybe we'll go back to cassette tapes and vinyl.

4. How do you feel about file sharing?

- I think it's nice if you can make a living being a musician, but nobody should be in it for the money; it's just too uncertain for anybody. Getting people to hear your music should be way more important than getting people to buy your music. It is for me, anyways. That being said, I have no problem with file sharing (not to mention that I would be a total hypocrite if I said that I did).

5. How do you guys advertise your shows?

- Our friend Kyle (thats Kyle Withrow for those of you who don't know - super fuckin cool dude - books shows at 529) has been a goddamn godsend as far as promoting shows goes. He books up at the 529 and always has flyers made and spreads that shit all over town, like the clap. Advertising for shows has never been my strong suit. I've always felt weird asking anybody that's not my friend to come see my band play (and even when I ask friends, I feel this weird kind of guilt). But networking websites like the Facebooks and the Myspace make it a lot easier to get the word out, as lame as that sounds.

6. What's your favorite movie?

- I love different movies for different reasons. But to not beat around the bush, I'll say The Iron Giant. Sir Vin Diesel's best work to date.

7. How did your band get started?

- I guess it was in the summer of 2007. I had just moved back home from Tennesee where I was in sort of a post-punk band with Jay and a few other friends. I started writing and recording by myself but really missed that group dynamic of music-making. Also, I was listening to a lot of Weezer and The Rentals at the time, and that sound, you know, that crunching-guitar, hooky, powerpop sound was giving me the biggest creative boner ever. I knew that this was a sound that I couldn't, nay, wouldn't attempt to get by myself.
Jay's a fucking monster, and we had been in bands together since we were in high school, so I knew that if I tried to get an outfit together, I'd want him on the drums. He was down.
Luke and I had been friends since we were in elementary school. On top of being a really awesome musician, he's an even awesomer human. Plus he was the only one with a basement.
Amanda and I had played together briefly a couple years prior to that summer. She's SO goddamn knowledgeable about theory and has such an incredible voice, it was kind of a no-brainer getting her in the mix. And then there's Scott Motherfucking Ritchey: the wild card. Our bands had played shows together in high school, and I had always admired his style of playing. It just has this freshness to it that I can't really describe. To this day, I'm absolutely floored by the riffs that kid comes up with. So all the pieces were in place by May 2007. Five people in a band makes it kind of hard to have a regular practice schedule, but we managed (and still manage) to get at least one practice in a week. After about a month we had a couple songs down, and I think we all knew we had something special. We could just feel it, you know? Down there.

8. What other Atlanta bands would ya'll recommend to your fans and fans of Atl music?

- The North Trolls, Small Reactions, Fox Trotsky, Hanna-Barbarian, Die Benny, McClane, Black Panther Party, The Longshadows, Gentleman Jesse and His Men, Deerhunter and some new band, I think they're called the White Ears? Red Noses? Blue Eyes? Black Lips? Yeah, I think that's it. Oh, and Death Shit.

9. What bands do ya'll listen to?

- Lately, just The Raspberries, Jens Lekman, and Yo La Tengo.

10. What places have you toured? What towns? Whats your favorite venue to play in Atl and whats your favorite town besides Atl you've played so far?

- So far we haven't played outside of Atlanta. Everybody has jobs and three of us go to school and one of us is married, so that all makes touring pretty difficult. We are beginning to branch out though. On May 2nd Jay and I are returning to Murfreesboro, TN (where we attended college for two years) accompanied by the rest of Twin Thunder to play a show with our friend Stewart's band, The Lake. Then we're going on a six day tour at the beginning of June with our pals Small Reactions. As far as Atlanta goes, the 529 is where it's at.

Check out our new blog The future of music - Record Companies Get Real on our blog page. We think its some pretty interesting stuff about the future of the major record labels and the internet as far as file sharing and making money as a musician goes....click here to check it out....and please comment on our blogs and tell us what you think...and utilize our posts section...we're trying to build some connectivity and interactivity here people...especially bands...your fans want to know what you're up to and what you think about stuuuuuffffff.

Here is the Black Lips new video I'll be With You

This is how they described the song on youtube: I'll be with you is a pretty sappy, but heartfelt song about a dear friend. I wanted the video to reflect the feeling and mood of the song as I feel it. I wanted to kind of recreate old home movies I've seen of my family in the 60's, but make it a little more subversive and somewhat sinister. We playboy's laying around, and some satanic elements, and charlie manson. But still semi-innocent and silly and happy. It was alot of fun to make it. I got my roommate to dress as a clown, and we got to throw cake all over my friends kitchen, making her scream like a maniac, while we laughed like maniacs.

Click here to see past stories...