The Oswego County Event Center in Pennellville, N.Y. hosted 95x’s Birthday Bash with local bands Loose Cannon, Crows Cage, Bound For The Floor, Granny 4 Barrel and National Act Jackyl. The day started a little behind, but once Loose Cannon hit the stage it didn’t matter. These guys had the crowd singing and moving to ’80s hard rock of Motley Crue, Van Halen and Ozzy. They started the day right and it just continued on from there.
Next up to the stage was Crows Cage and as always they didn’t disappoint. Their high energy show was just what the doctor ordered. Performing their own songs such as “Hate and Grindstone” just to name a few, got the crowd all warmed up and ready to continue the party, but before they left the stage, guitar player Aaron Bellows’ niece Shayla took the stage to sing “Fly” with the guys. That young lady definitely has a lot of talent. Be sure to look for her in the future.
Crows Cage
Bound For The Floor did their thing with a mix of yesterday’s grunge and today’s modern rock. Full of energy and funk, they rocked out and got the crowd involved.
Bound For The Floor
Granny 4 Barrel took the stage and immediately commanded everyone’s attention. All I could do was chuckle at the outfits and the stage setup. These guys were fantastic. They seriously put on one hell of a show! The crowd also loved them. They brought so many different emotions to the concert goers. Whether you were laughing so hard you were crying or singing along to the music, I’m sure everyone will agree that these guys put on a memorable performance.
Granny 4 Barrel
By the time Jackyl came out the crowd was all warmed up and ready for a kick ass rockin show, which is exactly what Jackyl gave them. The level of intensity and energy was second to none. Their Southern Rock n Roll had the fans singing along for their entire set. This band is so down to earth and made each fan feel engaged. After ending their performance with a shot from Jesse’s shotgun mic stand, the band invited every one of the fans over to their tent to personally say hello.
The largest concert to celebrate ringing in the year 2000 was held just west of Miami at Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, and 75,000 Phish fans flocked to spend the last two days of 1999 with the Vermont quartet. Over the course of the those two days, fans were treated to bust outs (Light Up or Leave Me Alone), special guests (Seminole Indian Reservation Chief Jim Billie), a smoke filled “Mike’s Song”, a set-ending “After Midnight”, merely 5 hours before the band returned for a marathon 7 hour, 37 song set that ended at sunrise.
Big Cypress stands out in the lore among Phish fans, and with 2024 on the horizon, a return to the hallowed grounds in South Florida is sought after by many. The festival marked the largest concert to celebrate the arrival of the year 2000.
Fans have longed for a box set or official release of the footage from the weekend, and just yesterday footage began to leak of a pro-shot version of “Down with Disease” and now, an almost complete video of the first 5.5 hours of the fabled midnight set. Bask in the awesomeness of Phish at Big Cypress.
For a thursday night in Albany, New York, there sure was a good amount of rock and roll to be had. On Central Avenue in particular, where four small bands from New York state converged to bring a huge night of music. The End Men, from Brooklyn, kicked off their tour at their second home in Albany, before hitting the road for two solid weeks up and down the east coast.
The Low Beat has been bringing quality shows since it opened in February of this year. In the wake of Valentines closing, a staple venue in the Albany music scene, The Low Beat has filled that void, with the same ‘No Pepper’ adorning the stage and great beers and grub from the bar. (Check out our article on the iconic club closing it’s doors.)
Henry’s Rifle kicked off the night, with his one man talent barrage. John Pipino normally goes at it alone, with his trusty banjo and tambourine/stompbox suitcase combo bringing down and dirty roots rock to the stage. He was in good form, telling the crowd he was digging into some songs he normally doesn’t like to play, but was enjoying them anyway. A master at creating a singular atmosphere when he plays, it’s no wonder his new album (which will be released on Halloween of this year) is called “Barroom Weather”. With his huge, crooning voice sailing over the crowd, and his fast paced banjo strumming and later guitar picking, the show was given a proper send up from an act that needs to be experienced to be believed. Look for news on his CD release soon.
Next up was Charmboy, also from Albany. Both Henry’s Rifle and Charmboy are part of the ever growing Built4BBQ musician collective in Albany, which also includes The End Men as well. The traditional three piece of guitar, bass and drums is anything but, delivering high energy old school rock and roll in large helpings. They started their set with a massive psychedelic build up, which was kind of surprising considering the immediate rock set that followed. Easy parallels can be made to Elvis Costello and Television, but these guys bring some new vigor to that tried and true sound. Great sound from the board helped the crowd pick out the nuances like precision shuffle beat drums over screaming guitars, and a three part vocal attack. No nonsense rock and roll, as showcased by their originals and a great cover of “Heaven and Hell” by The Who.
The End Men played the third spot on the bill, and the bar was almost packed full at this point. When these guys come to town, the crowds continually get bigger and bigger, and soon we might not be seeing this band in the smaller clubs in the area. The awesome power of the sound this band produces is even more incredible when you realize they are, inherently, a two piece band. Matt Hendershot holds down a gritty blues rock guitar with searing, gravel dream vocals, while Livia Ranalli plays the meanest drums and percussion you have ever seen. Filling out the lineup for this tour is Matt Elia on tenor saxaphone, which brings an added warmth to the gritty rock and roll coming from the stage. At first listen, visions of Tom Waits, Jack White or Mark Lanegan might fill your mind, but The End Men deliver all that and more with their incredible vaudevillian, psycho circus rock and roll. Matt is engaging as frontman to this rag tag outfit, and definitely seems at home in front of a microphone. The vocal melodies between Matt and Liv resonate to your very depths, and draw you closer to the stage to sop up every last bit of musical juice they provide. This is what bands on the cusp of breaking into the big time look and feel like, so next time they come to this area, or an area near you, do not miss the chance to witness their raucous good time. They ended their set with a song called “The Wolves”, having epic trade offs between guitar and sax with the percussion keeping everything nailed to the floor.
Last of the night was Sun Voyager from NYC, and they put the perfect capstone on an already incredible rock show. Psychedelic with a hint of crazy riff rock, it was a little like watching the british invasion all over again. If you happened to walk into The Low Beat not knowing what you were in for, Sun Voyager would have convinced you that you were witnessing something prolific. Hints of The Black Angels and The 13th Floor Elevators permeate their sound, and their big sound washes over you with reckless abandon, showing the versatile sound that this club can handle. Another three piece band that blows you away with their talent and musicianship.
A final note: Touring is a tough business, and that statement hit harder than most for The End Men that night. Their tour vehicle lost it’s transmission two blocks from The Low Beat, right before the show. But because of Albany’s incredible music scene that boasts a true sense of comradery, this little band from Brooklyn was in good hands. The bartender got a mechanic on the phone immediately, friends and bandmates helped push their vehicle to the club. Our own Jim Gilbert offered up his van so that they could continue on their tour. Music isn’t just about the sounds that you create, it’s about the friendships and connections you make as well. No better place to experience that first hand then supporting your local music scene, and becoming part of that awesome collective yourself.
The Utica Music & Arts Festival is becoming what is considered a tradition to those in and around the Utica, NY area. Those that attend just know to mark their calendars for that second weekend in September, in anticipation of one of the most eclectic mixes of music at some of the best Central NY music venues. Musicians vie each year for the few select spots, and each year we are introduced to new acts with huge talents. Eleven venues participated this year featuring music on both Friday night, all day Saturday, and into Saturday night. The artists space was set up at the Utica Auditorium, featuring face painting, a magician, vendors, and an indie garage sale, all while local artists create their spectacular murals.
Lukin’s Pizza, new to the Utica Music & Arts Festival this year, proved to be one of the most crowded venues as the UMAF kicked off the festival Friday night. Catching locals Pocket Change, a band whose sound is a melting pot of all their favorite genres rolled into one melodic beat, rocked the stage first with a warm mix of vocals and melodies as an appetizer of sorts for what was to come.
Returning this year were fan favorites Nick Piccininni and Jason Barady from Floodwood who turned up the heat and beat with the crowd this opening night. Their unique and energetic music is always a promise to get the toes tapping and hands clapping. This feel good music is one reason why they are crowd favorites no matter where they play. Whether as solo artists or all together, Jason & Nick always bring the party.
Following Nick and Jason were Driftwood, an Americana/Folk Music band from the Binghamton, NY area. These four musicians have evolved over the course of the years into one amazing group, keeping up the beat and the energy previously established this Friday night. Festival favorites and new to this attendee, they definitely have been added to the must see list of musicians when they come to town.
When giving out awards for most unique sound and most fun, Shinobi Ninja, a mash up of Hip-Hop, Punk, Metal, and Pop, wins hands down. These rockers from Brooklyn were mesmerizing. Their head banging, rapping, hip hop style of music and vocals drew you in and hooked you. As they flipped their dreads, shredded like a heavy metal band, and rapped tunes such as the Beastie Boys, they totally rocked their crowd. Total fun is how to describe these performers.
As Saturday rolled around, the fun continued down on Varick Street with UMAF favorites HafaSass, Mark Kroos, Miss Marlow, and Ryan Montbleau. The Nail Creek Pub was the venue to be at Saturday night as HafaSass set the stage for the night with their spunky sound. Next up, Mark Kroos returned to a full house and shared his magic. If I had to describe Mark’s talent, it would have to be as a prodigy. This young man is one of the best guitar players I have ever seen. Shredding out the catchiest of tunes on a regular acoustic guitar and a double neck electric guitar, his sound is pure magic. His one man band is all it takes to thoroughly entertain and ramp up a crowd. His ability to produce sounds on a guitar that mimic a train whistle, while playing a melody and singing a tune at the same time just leaves the crowd flabbergasted each and every time they see it. As his YouTube video of “Dueling Banjos” went viral, he jokes of how can he possibly follow that up. As he shares his new compositions, showcasing his amazing abilities to play a double neck guitar, I guarantee he will one day surpass that expectation of “Dueling Banjos” with an arrangement solely all his own.
Miss Marlow, another crowd favorite, is one of the most unique bands to frequent UMAF. Traveling all the way across the pond from the Netherlands to O’Donnels Pub on Varick Street, Miss Marlow is a four piece rock band whose signature sound can only be described as a mix of Led Zepplin, Stevie Nicks, and Heart all rolled into one rocking band. We are fortunate to have them each year and hope they continue to return.
Closing out the festival this year was Ryan Montbleau. First time seeing him, I was intrigued about him as I could get nowhere near the stage to shoot any photos. This standing room only crowd, packed in like sardines, were ready for Ryan to wow them, as was I. As he took the stage, he did exactly that. His style was one I could listen too forever. His sound to me was unique. His voice, melodic and sexy. His humor, candid and witty. Joined on stage by UMAF favorite, Jason Barady on mandolin, all I can say is what a perfect pairing. Peanut butter and jelly had nothing on these two. Jamming together on song after song, Ryan and Jason played for hours to an entranced crowd. Ryan’s seamless ability to just pull songs out of a set list in his head was evidence that this music was a part of him, a natural ability to perform, and a sound he just shares as a natural gift. If I had to describe his style, it would be Modern Folk mixed with Indie Rock. Their performance together was a gift and the perfect way to close out another successful festival.
“You want me to start it like that” is the first sounds one hears on the great new album Juice by Medeski, Scofield, Martin, and Wood. All four members shine throughout the fourth album of this great collaboration. John Medeski, Billy Martin, and Chris Wood induce jaw dropping reactions when they play as a trio, and when you had a legend like John Scofield to the mix, the jaws can only get lower to the floor. After that initial start of “Sham Time”, the foursome meander through some latin-jazz that will get you moving in your seat right away. In an interview with Relix, John Scofield gives a track by track breakdown of the record and it is wonderful to get some insight to how they worked through the album. Each member brought a few songs to the group and let the other three tackle it to their liking. All 10 tracks leave you wanting more as one goes by and the next one starts.
“North London” is driven by a call and response between Scofield’s guitar and Medeski’s organ trading off sections of the tune. The ease that the four of them feel when in a room together to experiment and push one another is beautiful. Scofield takes the riff from “Louie Louie” and turns it just slightly to the left as Martin’s drums start up to make “Juicy Lucy” the Latin-Jazz cousin of the famous riff. “I Know You” sees quiet spaces enter the music as no one member dominates the song and the blank area of the song become a fifth member of the group. “Light My Fire” and “Sunshine of Your Love” are two of the most famous songs to come out of the 60’s and one is completely turned on its head by MSMW on the record. “Light My Fire” is similar in beat and the guitar does what would have been the vocals to the song, while “Sunshine of Your Love” becomes a reggae filled jazz piece that barely resembles anything we know of the song. Both are beautiful in their owns ways and its great to see these talented musicians tackle such legendary songs.
The last song is a cover of “The Times They are A-Changin’” and it sees the band be the quietest they are on the whole album. They take one of Bob Dylan’s most famous songs and make it a moody jazz song that you can rally behind. The band truly shines again when it isn’t stuffing notes upon notes into the song and lets each member stretch out their parts to fill the voids left by the other members, with Wood’s bass driving the beat in the middle of the entire mix. The only downfall of this album is that it ends and you don’t know when the next time Scofield will join MMW in the studio. If only MSMW was a permanent group, every year to two years a new album of delectable jazz would be in your ears from these four great musicians. Catch them on tour this winter at Philadelphia’s Union Transfer on December 5th, Boston’s House of Blues on December 7th, and New York City’s Terminal 5 on December 11.
Key Tracks: Sham Time, Juicy Lucy, The Time’s They are A-Changin’
The massive success of Volbeat and Five Finger Death Punch in the last year has led to a co-headlining tour that is built on epic proportions. The lineup is filled out by rockers Hellyeah and Nothing More, and will wind up playing two shows in the Upstate area. I got the chance to talk with Rob Caggiano, the new guitarist of Volbeat, as well as alumni of the bands Anthrax and The Damned Things. We talked about what it’s like to be in Volbeat, and what this tour has in store for the fans.
Photo by Amy Harris from thefirst3songs.com
Jeff Ayers: So the tour started last night Sept. 16, in Salt Lake City, how did it go? How was the first show?
Rob Caggiano: The first show went great, really good. As to be expected though, with any ‘first show’ on a tour like this, there are some kinks that need to be worked out, some technical stuff, but overall it was killer, and a great crowd.
JA: Yea I saw pictures online, that crowd looked insane! This tour is being heralded by the press as the two hottest rock bands co headlining a U.S. tour. Rightfully so, with both bands increasing successes. The response from the fans when you announced this tour must have been incredible.
RC: Yeah, there was a lot of excitement about this lineup, and it feels really good. We are very excited to be on this run, and all shows coming up.
JA: Awesome. Speaking on that a little, Volbeat and Five Finger Death Punch both have been doing great things for rock, and heavy rock, on the charts and off. Do you have any thoughts on Gene Simmons recent comments about how rock is dead?
RC: He’s been making a lot of comments lately, about [all kinds of] stuff. [laughs]. I don’t know where he was going with that. I saw something on twitter about that, but obviously, rock is not dead.
JA: You guys are a testament that it is not!
RC: I mean, the music business is very different these days, than it was even five years ago. So it’s changing rapidly, and things are different. Record sales aren’t even what they used to be, it’s a totally different landscape right now. That might be what Gene Simmons was referring to, but I don’t know. It is certainly not dead.
JA: [The album] has done really well since it’s release. You helped produce that album, how was that experience?
RC: It was great. We were in Denmark, on the countryside at a place called Randers, and it was cool. We were isolated in the studio, and totally focused on the record. We had a great team too, Jacob Hansen was also there, and has been Volbeat’s long time producer. I had one of my engineers out there too, Brian Russell, and it all came together. I am really proud of this record.
JA: Cool. You joined up with Volbeat in the midst of recording the album, correct?
RC: Yes.
JA: How did that come about, you guys all just hit it off in the studio?
RC: I have been friends with the guys for a few years, before I got that call to produce the record, so we get along great. I‘ve known them since about 2010 when they took The Damned Things on tour, and we would hang out every night on that tour. But I got [to produce the record] and we started going over the pre-production, to figure out what was going to be on the record. There were a few songs that were unfinished, and Michael and I started collaborating on few things. The chemistry was really great, and from that first pre-production meeting, it kind of set the tone for everything. A couple of weeks later they asked me to be a part of the band.
JA: That’s awesome. Before you joined up with Volbeat, you pretty much exclusively behind the soundboard for a little bit. Were you actively looking for projects at that time, or did this kind of fall in your lap?
RC: I think people misunderstood what I said in my press release when I quit Anthrax. It was never about not wanting to tour anymore, or not play guitar anymore. It was just about wanting a change, and I just wanted to produce some records while I figured out what I wanted to do next with my career as an artist, as a guitarist. When the Volbeat record came across my table as a production gig, I was like “Wow this is perfect!” I love the band, and always thought we could make a great record together. It was something we talked about on The Damned Things tour, years ago. Everything just happened at once! [laughs] I ended up producing a record and joining the band.
JA: You can’t beat pure serendipity like that though!
RC: Yes! Yeah, totally.
JA: Volbeat as a band is always so busy, since you joined, how many tours have you played with them?
RC: Wow. That’s a good question. Not sure I know that myself. [laughs]
JA: Yeah, I was trying to look online, and it just seems that Volbeat is constantly on tour.
RC: Yeah we are. I haven’t been home at all, it’s crazy. We have been all over the world a couple of times now, and honestly I don’t know the exact number.
JA: That is totally fine! [laughs] It’s great work if you can’t even count all the jobs. Speaking of circling the world though, with all the times you have with Volbeat, and also with Anthrax especially playing on The Big 4 tour, personally speaking, do you have a favorite place to play or return to?
RC: Oh, I have so many favorite places to play. In America, I love playing New York, I love playing Chicago, Los Angeles, I love Europe as well though. Scandinavia is great, and I love Germany. One of my favorite places in the world is Australia, because it’s so beautiful. I love going over there.
JA: Being an American in a Danish band, is there any culture shock?
RC: I don’t know if you would call it culture shock. It’s a little different for me, coming from New York, everything with me is fast paced, because of New York.
JA: Hell yeah!
RC: So I am always in that mode, where as these guys are little more laid back, which is great. We get along great, it’s really cool.
tour flyer
JA: So for this tour, with Five Finger Death Punch, Hellyeah and Nothing More, what can fans expect, are there any surprises in store from Volbeat?
RC: Well if we did have any surprises, I wouldn’t tell you!
JA: Good answer!
RC: [laughs] It is just going to be a great all around rock and roll show. I think the fans are going to be in for a real treat.
JA: Well the tour is going to be making a few stops in Upstate New York, one at the OnCenter in Syracuse on September 23rd, and then at the Times Union Center on the 27th. You being from the Bronx, and being in multiple bands, you have played this area a bunch. Do you like playing around here, any thoughts on Upstate NY?
RC: I always loved Upstate New York. To me, it’s so crazy. You know, coming from the city, there are so many amazing, beautiful places in New York, if you are a city person, you don’t even realize they are there. The crowds are always great up there though. Joey Belladonna from Anthrax, he’s from up there. [Oswego]. It’s cool, I love it up there.
JA: Cool. What’s next for Volbeat after this tour? Another tour? [laughs] Or are you guys going to take a break and write material, or what?
RC: After this tour, we are actually going back to the U.K. That will be the last thing we do for this year. Then we are going to lay low, the holidays will be coming up, and then we will get into creative mode basically.
JA: This tour ends in Vegas, what are your experiences playing there?
RC: Vegas is cool. For me, I have a three-day limit on Vegas. In three days I have to get out of there, because it is crazy. [laughs] But the crowds are really good, and Five Finger Death Punch is from Vegas, so that final show should be completely off the wall.
Pink Floyd has unveiled the cover art and track-listings for their upcoming double-album The Endless River which is being released November 10th. The title harkens back to the penultimate lyric from “High Hopes”, the final song on The Division Bell, Pink Floyd’s last album in 1993. It was originally mistaken to be a David Gilmour solo album.
The album, as described by Nick Mason is, “This record is a good way of recognizing a lot of what Rick does and how his playing was at the heart of the Pink Floyd sound. Listening back to the sessions, it really brought home to me what a special player he was.” David Gilmour says, “We listened to over 20 hours of the three of us playing together. Over the last year we’ve added new parts, re-recorded others and generally harnessed studio technology to make a 21st century Pink Floyd album. With Rick gone, and with him, the chance of ever doing it again, it feels right that these revisited and reworked tracks should be made available as part of our repertoire”.
The album has been produced by David Gilmour, Phil Manzanera, Youth and Andy Jackson. Manzanera co-wrote ‘One Slip’ for Pink Floyd’s Momentary Lapse of Reason album in 1987, co-produced Gilmour’s On an Island project and has toured with the guitarist several times. Youth, meanwhile, is part of the Orb, an ambient-house band that Gilmour worked with on 2010’s Metallic Spheres. Jackson, who’s ‘Big Spliff’ composition also makes up a small part of The Endless River, has been a recording engineer for Pink Floyd on every album since 1979’s The Wall.
The Endless River will be primarily instrumental with lyrics written by Polly Sampson, Gilmour’s wife, on the track ‘Louder Than Words’, that strike to the core of Pink Floyd’s history with founding and departed member Roger Waters.
“We bitch and we fight, but this thing that we do, it’s louder than words.”
Fall Night In, sponsored by 99.5 The River, at Albany’s Palace Theatre brought Pop to Upstate on Sept. 9. The Fray, a Christian-turned-Pop-Rock band from Colorado, headlined the show, bringing a fairly young but devoted audience to the Palace. With a simple yet creative stage set enhanced by a brilliantly designed light show, The Fray put on a good show. They are best known for their 2006 hit singles, “How to Save a Life” made widely popular by Grey’s Anatomy and “Over My Head (Cable Car)”. While fans were thrilled to hear those hits, both the crowd and the band seemed to gain more energy and excitement during the performance of songs from their recently released album, Helios. In particular, the song “Give It Away” was very well received, despite the suggestive ’70s Disco sound, which has been largely avoided in most popular music over the past forty years.
In fact, The Fray incorporated a lot of unexpected, but distinct styles into their songs, including Gospel in “Hold My Hand” and a funky groove in “Love Don’t Die”. Most interesting about this performance though was the way the band collectively emphasized certain instruments. Band members were given time for solos, but the musicians almost seemed to prefer putting the attention on the instruments. During one number, three of the five musicians on stage were banging on drums; for another, four of them were using a keyboard/piano. And, as was expected, The Fray’s harmonies, particularly during the ballads that made them famous were spot on.
The opening acts for Fall Night In included the two-person Pop band, A Great Big World, who are most famous for their single “This is the New Year” (2012) thanks to Glee and Andy Grammer, best known for “Keep Your Head Up (2011).
A Great Big World was the evening’s great big surprise. Ian Axel and Chad Vaccarino, who formed the band while enrolled at NYU, do not look like typical Pop stars. They might be more aptly described as hipsters, with a strong “nerd” factor. At first awkward on stage, once they started playing, power and passion popped out, and the band’s quirkiness became very appealing. Just like the white clothes they wore against the black stage, their nerdy appearance contrasted with a charming performance. Axel’s Sesame-Street-type voice against his fierce keyboarding also seemed like a contradiction, but it worked — really well (bringing to mind a young Elton John). “Land of Opportunity” was especially captivating. Ignoring the lyrics, the song sounds very happy, positive and upbeat (making me want to communicate with smiley-face emoticons). But once you pay attention to the words and Axel’s passionately angry keyboarding, you realize that the song’s meaning is far from happy; it’s actually about a devastating break-up.
“Say Something” the song that attracted the attention of Christina Aguilera in 2013 and launched the young band into fame, was played solo by Axel. The enchanting artistry of his performance left the entire auditorium absolutely silent. But not for long; as soon as Axel finished, the crowd exploded with admiration and as his band members rejoined the stage, they too seemed impressed.
Both, A Great Big World and Andy Grammer, who opened the night, were very interested in dialogue with the audience, telling stories and sharing song meanings. This goes a long way in a live performance, allowing fans to connect with the musicians in a personal way. Grammer is a natural entertainer; not only is his music catchy, but he is also really funny. His song, “Forever” about the amount of time it takes for women to get ready to go out, was a surprising treat. He delighted his young fans with his 2011 hit, “Keep Your Head Up” and managed to engage the older audience members as well with good stories, many related to the Upstate community, where he spent some of his younger years.
All three bands are continuing to tour, but not together. Both The Fray and A Great Big World will be heading to Europe soon, and Andy Grammer is ambitiously traveling throughout the US and overseas. Grammer will perform at The Palace again on Nov. 26 for the O.A.R. show.
When Clutch came to Upstate Concert Hall in September, I was lucky enough to sit down with the bassist, Dan Maines. The lineup of the band has added members to it’s roster over the years, but the core lineup of Dan, Neil Fallon, Jean-Paul Gaster and Tim Sult has remained the constant for over twenty years. Clutch has been a staple to the Upstate New York music scene for most of their career, and it was great to talk about the area, the band and the process with Dan. Also, for the first time, we brought along a local musician, Dustin Alexander, who plays in the band Jesus Christ and the Hallucinogenic Allstars to ask a few questions, bassist to bassist.
Dustin Alexander (JCHA), Dan Maines (Clutch) and Jeff Ayers (NYS Music) backstage of Upstate Concert Hall in Clifton Park, NY. Photo by Jim ‘JT’ Gilbert / JTGphoto.com
Jeff Ayers: In your personal opinion, how has playing in the heavy rock scene changed in the last two decades? Do you still feel like it’s an uphill battle?
Dan Maines: I don’t know, that’s kind of a hard question to answer. We are not in the position to really know what it’s like for a band starting out now. It might be a little more difficult for them now, as opposed to when we started. We were coming up at a point in time when a whole new genre of music was moving into the mainstream. Bands that we were listening to for years, that we were looking at as influences, they were suddenly becoming major label bands. That happened for us as well, and we got swept up in that frenzy, to jump on that bandwagon. What people were calling alternative, or grunge rock, and some bands that didn’t even fit into that category were swept up too, for better or worse. Talking with the band we are on tour with now, Lionize, they are in a better position nowadays. Hearing the things they pick up on [coming up in the industry.] Now, it seems like it’s not even mandatory to be a legitimate band anymore.
JA: Yeah, I see that too.
DM: Bands that play along to recorded tracks, that isn’t really being in a band. The whole thing for us is playing a live show, to be entertaining for us and the live audience.
JA: You guys do that very well, I have to say.
DM: Thank you. I mean if you can’t do that as a band, without the use of computers or backtracks, you should probably rethink your approach.
JA: I totally agree. You talked about being swept up by the major label race in the 90’s to sign a bunch of bands. You guys started on Atlantic or Columbia Records right?
DM: We started on East West. Which was part of that Atlantic family, and that was in 1992, when we signed, and the record (Transnational Speedway League) didn’t come out until 93. We actually released an EP on Earache Records before that. (Passive Restraints).
JA: Then in 2008, you started WeatherMaker Records. How was that process, being in the business for a while at that point then starting your own label? Was it tough?
DM: Yeah, it definitely was. We were on East West, then moved to Columbia, and then Atlantic. We just got fed up with the game. It’s a weird business, so many personal changes happen on the fly, on a weekly basis sometimes. We felt like there wasn’t any real direction, and nobody knew what the hell to do with us. We signed with an independent label, DRT, and put out three records with them. But that was the slow decline with our relationship with labels. We had to go to court, and winning that decision bolstered our resolve to just say, “Let’s do it ourselves”. At that point, we were in the right position, we had already put out records on our own. We put out Jam Room on Riverroad Records, which was basically selling records out the backdoor of the van. So we had been doing it already to a point, and the only thing we didn’t have was distribution. So we had to find a couple of really good people in that field to work for us in an unconventional label.
JA: Speaking a little about Upstate NY, you guys have been coming to this area for a long time. I can’t even count the amount of times I have seen you play this area. Do you enjoy Upstate NY? Are you happy with the response you get from this area?
DM: Definitely. That is kinda how we started out. Being from Baltimore, we would play up to Boston, and then head to Detroit, and then play our way back home. So this became our spot, or one of them.
Dan Maines (Clutch) at Upstate Concert Hall. Photo by Jim ‘JT’ Gilbert / JTGphoto.com
JA: Do you remember Saratoga Winners?
DM: Absolutely. I mean they were one of the earliest supporters of us, even more so than our hometown. This has always been a really great place for us to play.
JA: We have a great metal scene in this area, but also a great jam scene. You guys fit into so many pieces of that puzzle.
DM: Yeah that’s good. Man, I’ve never even thought about that. Makes sense.
JA: Personally speaking, I started listening to you guys in the mid nineties because a local radio station was playing you (Z-Rock), and then you guys started playing up here. Not only a fan of you guys, but through the times I have seen you tour, I have found favorite bands because the were your openers. Like The Sword, and Mastodon. Do you hand-pick your tour mates?
DM: We get a lot of help from our booking agency, when we are planning on touring, they also have bands on their roster that they suggest to us. Also, bands that we might not know exist, but want to tour with us, submit themselves through our booking agency. We are with The Agency Group. That’s how we found out about American Sharks, when we were touring with The Sword. Kyle (Shutt) suggested that we play with them, and I am really glad he did, because they are great.
JA: You guys have been really lucky to have your music attached to other aspects in the media. You have your songs used in sports games and broadcasts, and video games like Tony Hawk, and also television. Do you see a big help from that stuff? More recent example was when “Regulator” was used in a 2012 episode of The Walking Dead.
DM: That was huge for us!
Dustin Alexander: Are you a Walking Dead fan?
DM: Absolutely! I lost my mind when I got that email.
DA: I got the chills when that song came on.
JA: Dustin and I were watching that episode together, and we jumped off the couch when that scene happened, screaming “Clutch is on the Walking Dead!”
DM: That was amazing. It definitely helped us reach new people, too. Before that episode came out, we keep track of what songs and albums are doing the best on iTunes for example. After that episode aired, there was a huge spike in interest in that song. Same thing goes for like hockey or baseball teams that will sometimes use one of our tunes. I think the Vancouver Canucks, they were using ‘Electric Worry’ as their goal song.
JA: So cool!
DM: Yeah, it’s a hockey stadium, so I guarantee you that more than half the people in that place have never heard of us before. They get that [song] in their heads, and they go ask their friends, or they go look it up. It all helps.
JA: Because I am a giant nerd, I have to ask you this question. On the new record, “Earth Rocker”, the song ‘Unto the Breech’ has a lot of Doctor Who references. Who is the fan in the band?
DM: Neil! To be honest, I didn’t know about half the shit he was talking about.
JA: Ha! But whatever works for the song I guess?
DM: Oh yeah.
JA: I’m going to turn this over to Dustin Alexander, who is a local musician playing in the same genre as you guys, to ask a few more questions:
DA: My biggest concern, as far as touring, is how do you keep healthy? You guys play hard and long, and are playing huge sets night after night. How do you maintain yourselves?
DM: I drink a lot more water than I ever did. That is the biggest thing. Because, you are not gonna stop drinking beer, that just isn’t gonna happen. You are not gonna stop eating pizza. You can eat less pizza, but just drink as much water as you can. I wish I knew that fifteen years ago. It catches up to you. Don’t eat McDonalds.
DA: Since you guys have been together for so long, how do you get everybody to be on the same frequency and the same mindset? How has that worked out for you in Clutch, creating records?
DM: You kinda just have to be honest about it. It’s a weird thing for us. As long as it doesn’t remind us of something we have already done, or another band entirely, we are always down to try something a little different. At the same time, there is never any spoken direction. We don’t even know what the hell we are doing sometimes. We are writing a new record right now, and the only goal posts we have is to write. The more open you are to musical ideas, the easier it is to write songs, because you aren’t pigeon holed into a specific sound. There are instances where individual instruments can throw something new into a song that the other members won’t pick up on[right away]. Like, Jean-Paul could do some kind of a New Orleans shuffle kind of beat in a song, and that song could have nothing to do with funk whatsoever, but it fits that groove.
DA: Sometimes you are in the studio and laying down stuff, and you pick up on things you didn’t even know were part of the song.
DM: That’s what makes it interesting, especially in this band.
DA: What’s next after the tour, are you planning on going back in the studio?
DM: This tour is the last “Earth Rocker” tour that we will do. We are going to take three months off, and write and finish the material for this new record, and hopefully go into the studio as soon as we can next year and get something out.
DA: Do you guys have a method you follow each year, time to tour, time to get in the studio kind of thing?
DM: Yeah we have to plan it out quite a bit, because we don’t really write on the road. It’s hard to set aside a big chunk of time at home to write. So when we are home, we get together as often as we can at our studio and record every single idea we have. Whether it is a single riff, or a whole song, we get it down on tape and move on. Then a few months later we go back to it, and listen to everything we have and try to see what we can piece together into a song or an album. Sometimes it comes together in the matter of an hour, sometimes it takes weeks.
DA: Do you feel like after you write the riffs and give it that break, it helps?
DM: Sure, it does.
DA: As a bassist, I have to ask, your rig set-up is pretty rad. Are you using the Orange Tiny Terror?
DM: Yeah, I got the terror running through the Orange fifteen, and the SVT through the other cab.
DA: Is that the 1000 watt head or the 500?
DM: I’m not sure. I have both, and one is set up for the European tours, and the other is for the U.S.
DA: I have the 500 watt and i’ve been so happy with it.
DM: Yeah, they are awesome.
DA: Your rig sounds powerful up there. Do you use a pedal rig at all?
DM: No, I used to try and mess around with a wah pedal, and I liked the stuff I used it for on the records, but it’s kind of a trap for me I think. So I took it out of the mix completely, to force myself to think of something to play, rather than rely on the crutch of a pedal.
DA: I noticed that your lines are sturdy, and hold the floor down, and not too intricate. Do you notice yourself pulling back a bit to keep it a little less complicated?
DM: Yeah. That is the kind of playing a like in a bass player anyway, for the most part. The Band of Gypsys is my epitome of perfect music. Billy Cox is solid as a rock, and I use that as a starting point to my approach to playing. When I feel like I can elaborate a little, and do a “Look what I can do” riff, then I’ll do it. It’s not like, “Where can I do something sick in this song?” That’s not what it is about for me. You can find the balance though.
DA: Well that is why I like your playing because of how sturdy you keep it.
DM: Well, I get to play with Jean-Paul, so I’m lucky.
Days 7 and 8 brought a smorgasbord of musical sounds to The Great NY State Fair this year. Although country music dominated the lineup these two days, rock and roll greats threw the one two punch needed to turn up the volume at the Grandstands.
Day 7
Michael Ray – As the day of the show approached, Carrie Underwood ticket holders were still uncertain of the upcoming opening act for the evening. As they arrived, they soon learned they would be greeted by newcomer Michael Ray, winner of the reality program “The Next”. The program, which aired on the CW network was a different type of reality program. This program was designed to help contestants, who are already established musical acts and bring to the table a built-in fan base, move on to the next level in their careers. Each contestant was mentored by four professionals in the business; Gloria Estefan, Joe Jonas, John Rich, or Nelly. They then would compete to take their talents to the next level eliminating those until a victor was crowned. Mentored by John Rich of Big & Rich, it is apparent as he takes the stage why Michael Ray walked away victorious. He certainly nailed it with a few of his own songs and covers such as Friends in Low Places (Garth Brooks) and Mary Jane’s Last Dance (Tom Petty). It is always refreshing to see artists with vocal diversity be able to nail covers as different as these artists are. To me it shows their true vocal talents. He was right at home up there and quickly won over the crowd like a pro. Unbeknownst to the audience at the time, the stage has been home to him since he was a toddler joining his musical family up there with his Kermit the Frog guitar. This cutie won over the audience this night, implanted his name in their minds, and setting the stage (as if he needed to) for the superstar, Carrie Underwood. Although he may have been an unknown name upon arrival, he certainly wasn’t by the time he departed.
Carrie Underwood –
Sometimes performers are just born to be superstars. Walking away with the 2005 title of American Idol, it didn’t take Carrie long to hit the road with her first hit album Some Hearts that included number one singles such as “Jesus Take The Wheel” and “Before He Cheats”. Now a seasoned veteran with five studio albums under her belt, this petite superstar’s voice just blows you away with its strength and power. As she took the stage at the Grandstands, she certainly didn’t disappoint fans as she belted out hit after hit, from a catalog a mile long of music she’s recorded over the last nine years. In addition to her long list of hits, she also is extremely decorated with awards including six Grammy Awards, sixteen Billboard Music Awards, eleven Academy of Country Music Awards and seven American Music Awards, along with being nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song. We recently learned that one of these tunes “Two Black Cadillacs” will even be made into a television show. She has been the face of numerous product endorsements, and very active in working together with several non-profit agencies to bring awareness to their causes. All of this at the young age of 31. Amazing! Recently in the news just days after her NY State Fair performance, she shared with her fans her exciting announcement that she and husband, Mike Fisher (Nashville Predators hockey star), are expecting their first child. This amazing young woman will be an amazing mother and we couldn’t be happier for Carrie and Mike and send them all the best as they begin their family.
Set List: Good Girl > Undo It > Wasted > See You Again > Two Black Cadillacs > Temporary Home > Last Name > Jesus Take The Wheel >We’re Young and Beautiful > Cowboy Casanova > So Small > One Way Ticket > Some Hearts > I Told You So > Flat on the Floor > All – American Girl > Leave Love Alone > Cupid’s Got a Shotgun > Blown Away > Encore – Paradise City > Before He Cheats
Day 8
Angie Johnson –
Angie Johnson was the perfect choice to begin the salute to Veterans on Veterans Day at the Fair. Angie, herself a veteran serving in the US Air Force and currently a Missouri National Guard member, understands the trials and tribulations our military experience and how to bolster their spirits and give some peace and joy to them through her music. Donning the greatest red pumps (I so want a pair of those), they were the appropriate choice as she and her band heated up the crowd with each song they sang. One memorable tune was called “A Girl That No One Knew” which was co-written by Buffalo’s own Johnny Rzneik from the Goo Goo Dolls, showcased her talent and told her story. As most country musicians do, she writes about her life, her experiences, and her thoughts. This song was about her struggles to being discovered and given a chance as she paid her dues night after night in smokey bars. Almost giving up her dream on several occasions, the music business keeps pulling her back each time she thinks it’s over. Her talent is apparent despite her difficult struggles. Her song, Swagger, co-written with Phoenix Mendoza, is verification that this girl has talent, stage presence, and just plain rocks. And my admiration has nothing to do with her being a fellow St. Louis Cardinals fan, I swear.
I wonder if Mike Eli and James Young ever foresaw their huge successful career as they sat in their dorm room at the University of North Texas playing guitar and singing. These two later joined by Chris Thompson and Jon Jones are now known as the Eli Young Band. With five studio albums under their belt, several number one songs, and a truckload full of nominations and awards (2011 ACM Song of the Year/Music Row Awards Breakthrough Artist), these four young men really can rock a crowd and set the stage on fire. One of my favorites on my play list they are extremely talented musicians who can write and play like no other. I found it interesting how they continued to refer to themselves as a “garage band”. You know what I think? I think it’s the roots of this “garage band” that gives them their charm. They haven’t lost sight of entertaining their crowds, which I must say was packed to the gills at Chevy Court, and their love of the roots in country rock was apparent in their music and especially their encore of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Gimme Three Steps”. Anyone that can rock out to their music and embrace their roots in southern country rock has my adoration forever.
Set List: Revelations > 10,000 Towns > Skeletons > Love Songs > Dust > Prayer For The Road > Drunk Last Night > Even If It Breaks Your Heart > When It Rains > Oklahoma Girl > Guinevere > Small Town Kid > Crazy Girl > Encore – Gimme Three Steps
Cheap Trick exploded onto the scene back in the late 1970’s carving out a niche with their hits and their electric live performances. However their beginning here in the states experienced a slow start. By 1978, Cheap Trick had released three albums here in the US to a luke warm reception. Surprising to know as the songs were some of today’s greatest rock and roll songs of the era, i.e.”I Want You to Want Me” and “Clock Strikes Ten”. It wasn’t until the songs hit the big time in Japan and Cheap Trick recorded their live album in Budokan, that the US label took notice and re-released here. They were finally recognized at that point and their American audiences couldn’t get enough of them. Hailing from the Rockford, IL area, they even designated April 1st as “Cheap Trick Day” in the state; no joke. Still as entertaining today as they were back in the 70’s and 80’s with their flamboyant costumes, and amazing stage presence, it certainly understandable how this group has been recognized as one of VH1’s 100 Greatest Artsist of Hard Rock.
When someone asks me to list my favorite bands, Journey never fails to make my top ten list. Growing up in the 1980’s Journey was a part of everyone’s album, cassette, and dare I say without aging myself, 8-track collection. Their tunes were a staple then and still today, as you hear covers of some of their most popular songs played by national and local bands alike. Their popularity has not waned over the years. In fact, it’s refreshing to see younger generations appreciate their style of rock and roll. They were my first live show back in 1981 at the Syracuse Carrier Dome with their Open Arms tour, and I can recall it as though it was just yesterday. There was something about rock and roll performances in the 1960’s, ’70s and ’80s that focused on lyrics and musical composition. With guitar, drums, and bass solos taking center stage, it was more than just a show, it was a gift to the audiences. The band has evolved over the year with many changes,i.e. solo careers, collaborations with others, band changes etc. however here we are more than 30 years later and they still rock the crowd like they did all those years ago. As they took the stage at the Grandstands, it was apparent that the energy you felt back then was still there, and for those just experiencing their first Journey concert, something that will continue with a new generation of fans with Open Arms.
As days seven and eight wound down, I reflected on how amazing the Great NY State Fair had been so far. As I covered the shows and events over the course of these several days, I was able to take some time in between to really explore the different exhibits in the buildings, side entertainment, rides, and foods that make our fair so special. I highly recommend to families to actually come more than one day, so that they don’t feel rushed. By taking my time and exploring the buildings, seeing the parade more than one time, and taking time to taste some of what is offered, I felt as though I experienced the State Fair more than I ever had before.
