This is my Tumblr. It is gonna be about music. You ready?
I don’t usually reblog anything since I use this mainly for writing, but this needs to be seen. The Warped date in CT charged $4 a bottle and I probably drank 7 or 8. For just water, that is a lot of money. And I was still dehydrated. Luckily the guy running the slip and slide was refilling peoples’ waters the day of the CT Warped.
Rest in Peace to whomever died. My thoughts are with you, your family and your friends today.
The four-piece band Wayward from Reno, Nevada recently released their second EP Without a Light. This new EP includes four brand new tracks that have shown improvement from their 2009 release, Wayward. Their first EP is personally one of my favorite albums and currently in my car’s CD player. Even though Without a Light is released only a year after their initial self-titled EP, it is just as strong if not even stronger. Wayward is definitely going to be a band you will hear in the future. The boys are very friendly, reach out to their fans and are all very talented at a young age. You can easily listen to both of their albums on repeat without even getting bored. I can also say I cannot pick a favorite song on either album because, even with a catalogue of nine songs, there are a lot of strong tracks. Without a doubt, Wayward’s music can touch anyone in any mood. Make sure to check out their albums on iTunes and their MySpace/Twitter accounts. Enjoy rocking out to this Reno band!
Without a Light - The album opens up strong and engaging with this initial song. I want to get up and dance even after the first few lines. ‘Without a Light’ is about a selfish guy towards his girl and friends, and a lot of songs from this genre do not deal with this topic. It is an interesting idea. Also, this song has an amazing guitar solo and the boys never stop rocking.
All This Time - Right off the bat I knew this song was going to be a great love song. It is that song that every girl wants a guy to write about her. The song demonstrates how a band can show emotion in their music. You can feel the love and wanting of a perfect relationship.
See It Through - This track might be one on the weaker side, but still enjoyable. The message of being confident in one’s self and to find your own way is encouraging. I really like the group singing and instrumentals. However towards the end, the song becomes a little repetitive.
Miles - The last song on the EP is slowed down a bit, but still characteristic of the band. The vocals shine through on this track about a long distance relationship that can last through anything. Their love will always bring them back together. Overall, Without a Light ended just as good as it began.
Just to begin, what are the names of all the band members and what do you guys do in Wayward?
Chris Stanton - Lead Vocals/Guitar
Allen Lewis - Guitar
Brad Crane - Bass
Paul Curatolo - Drums/Vocals
How did Wayward become the amazing band it is today?
Haha well thanks for the compliment. The bulk of our journey from our beginnings to right now, I’d say, lies mainly in us just being true to who we are. We’ve been playing and writing the same kinds of songs we did in the beginning (although hopefully better than in the beginning hehe), and we’ve been really consistent and true to our own identity as a band. We think our fans really appreciate the fact that we don’t change our sound or our look every time the “scene” changes its standards. And in the same vein, we’ve kept the same lineup of members since Wayward started, which we think is really rare with a lot of younger groups, and we think it really helps us work better together. We’re all equally invested in what we do.
You just released your new EP, Without a Light on June 1st, how do you think this EP is different than the previous EP?
Hmmm, well hopefully in a number of ways. We like to think it’s a little more extreme on both ends of our genre. It has music that’s poppier than anything we’ve written, but also music that’s darker than anything we’ve written before. Also it has some in-between moments where it’s just plain different from anything we’ve written before, which we’re really excited about. It’s always fun to broaden our horizons and “mature” as we move on to new material. And so far we’ve gotten nothing but great reception from fans and reviewers.
What is your favorite song on the new EP?
Oh jeez, that’d be tough to choose. Like I said before, we feel like they’re all so different that it’s hard to pick one favorite. But if I had to I’d say “All This Time” stuck with me from the beginning. I think just because of its outright in-your-face, upbeat and poppy feel. But I dunno, the bridge section of Without a Light still hits me hard every time. I can’t speak for everyone though, we all have our own favorites I think. =)
Are there any specific influences in your life that inspire you to do music?
Oh definitely! I know for Allen and Paul that their dads’ highly successful Beatles Tribute band called Rain has been a HUGE part of their love for music growing up. For me personally, I’ve just always been so awestruck by the way a simple chord and melody can move you emotionally, psychologically, etc. that I just love being a part of that process. And knowing that we can create those feelings in others by something we’ve written is just so huge for all of us.
Is there a certain song that means more to you than the others?
For me personally…lyrically and symbolically, “Without a Light” is by far the heaviest and most meaningful song to me.
What are some typical thoughts that go through your head while you are performing?
Hahaha, we’re weird guys, so a lot of times you’ll catch us making stupid faces or cracking inside jokes to each other on stage. But we’re also really normal too, so if we’re nervous sometimes we try and find our “happy place” if it’s a big show or something, haha!
What can your fans expect from Wayward in the near future? Any new tours?
We’re stoked about our Biggest Little Tour in August! We’ll be touring some of California, Vegas, and hopefully a little bit of Utah. We’re in the process of working everything out but keep checking back on our website and myspace for details!
What do you guys like to do in your spare time? Any favorite video games/movies/tv shows?
We’re a really social band, so we love spending time with friends and whatnot. We’re definitely gamers too…we gave up a week of our lives for Red Dead Redemption after it released a couple weeks ago, hehe. Also love movies and tv shows. Some favorites for us are Seinfeld, Arrested Development and Family Guy.
Would you rather be a Disney Prince or a Disney Villain?
Oh Prince, no doubt. The Princes never have much to worry about. In the world of Disney there’s no way the villain can win. Laaaame!
Lastly, anything else you would like to share?
Just that we absolutely love hearing from everyone! Drop us a line on our Facebook, our Myspace, our home page, anything! We like getting to know the people who support us. Check out the new EP on iTunes and hopefully we’ll see you soon. =)
Stephen Schriner is a new solo artist from Philadelphia, PA. His influences from the pop-punk scene has shown through in his impressive musical abilities. The covers featured on his Myspace are performed very well. And even though they are covers, Stephen is able to make them sound like his own. He is now recording he debut EP and personally I can not wait to he his own material. The short clips featured on his Myspace are very promising. There is a bright future for Stephen Schriner.
When did you originally start playing music?
I’ve sang my whole life starting from church when I was little, but i picked up my first guitar when i was in 6th grade which was about 2002.
What are the three things you have to have with you while on tour?
I haven’t actually been on a full out tour yet but I do need, Deffinitly my cell phone charger, my laptop, and my bestfriends <3
What are your favorite songs to perform live?
Im going to have to say First Grade Heroes is my favorite song!
What do you notice most about the crowd while you are performing?
I like to watch peoples reactions to the music, there’s nothing better than seeing people get into your own music that you wrote!
Describe your dream tour: with what bands, where would you travel, etc?
My dream tour would have to be with All Time Low, and I want to travel all over the world!
What musical influences drew you to music?
I’ve been through so many genres of music since I’ve started but seeing all time low for the first time in 2006 definitly threw me right into the pop punk scene!
What sort of inspiration do you draw from now to continue in music/write songs?
I don’t really have any inspiration for writing my songs usually a line pops into my head and I just go with it, as long as I like it!
What are your favorite things to get from fans?
My favorite things to get from fans are definitely my friendship bracelets <3
What is your favorite video game of all time?
haha sonic the hedgehog on seg genesis!!
If you could be on any old school Nick game show (like Legends of the Hidden Temple, GUTS, Figure It Out, etc), what would it be?
I always watched Legends of the Hidden Temple when i was little, so ill deffinitly have to go with that as my choice!
Finally, anything else you want to share with your fans?
Check me out on www.myspace.com/StephenLawrenceSchriner
www.StephenSchriner.com
www.facebook.com/StephenLawrenceSchriner
www.youtube.com/lacfiremx02
www.twitter.com/StephenSchriner
Walk Harbor City is a four-piece rock band from Boston, Massachusetts. They have been together since January 2008, and in those two years have certainly made a name for themselves. They have produced two EP’s (Walk Harbor City and Three Colors) as well as opened for national acts such as The Cab, Lights, and Sean Kingston. The band stays true to classic rock and roll without using electronics to add to their sound. You will not hear one bit of synthesized music on any of these bands tracks. And it is evident they do not need it; their music is catchy, heartfelt and full of passion. All of their music is available on iTunes and they should really be given the chance. Not only do they produce remarkable music, the boys are also fan oriented. They use twitter, myspace and other social networking sites in order to keep in contact with their fans. You could not ask for a more genuine group of artists who are fully immersed in their music.
Walk Harbor City (released May 14, 2009)
Jejune – As soon as the opening track beings, you are immediately drawn in. The guitar in the intro is very intriguing. This great opener tells the listened that even if they are drowning with pressures of their life, then can rise above. You just have to have confidence in yourself and you will be able to achieve anything. The lyrics are powerful and angry, yet still beautifully done. This track is my favorite off their debut EP.
Call It Karma – The transition between the opener to the second track is flawless. Although the beginning is slow, the track picks up right when it needs to. The instrumentals right before the chorus are incredible in this uplifting song to keep going even when times get rough. The song has a badass attitude to it that just makes you want to go out and not care what anyone thinks about you. Throughout the entire song the guitar and drums are really strong.
Arms and Ears – On this atypical, non-cliché love song, the band opens up a little softer. The boy will still be waiting even if the situation does not feel right at the time. The track is more experimental from the prior two, but the transitions from soft to loud are faultless. If anyone else is a sucker for acapellas, Arms and Ears is for you. The only part that distracts from the song is the last 15 seconds when the outro is too long.
Superstitions – The vocals are shown off in this song where the boy will still be holding onto something that might be there. The softer, sweeter lyrics are never overpowered by the instrumentals creating this feeling of passion. You can desperately hope for something to happen, but when is the right time to let go? The fade out with the repeating chorus works well in this song, an art many bands cannot capture.
Simple English – The final song on the debut EP is short, but holds a strong message. Initially it seems a bit out of place, but the cute acoustic song finishes off the EP well. They are able to capture a lot of emotion in one verse.
Walk Harbor City successfully captures an audience with their first musical debut and leaves fans wanting more.
Three Colors (released January 7, 2010)
What They Want - Once again, Walk Harbor City has a strong beginning on their opening track. It is obvious that the band has matured since their initial album. The sound is stronger and more developed. The edginess of the song demonstrates the strong emotions behind every band member. There are always going to be people who will try to control you, but you have to rise up and do what you want. The beat is infectious and even though the song slows down in the middle in builds on the power of the song. There is also a fantastic guitar solo, just adding to this solid opener.
Modern Flame – The sadness in this song is apparent from the beginning. The band wants to show someone that their “love is real” but it has burnt out. There is hope though and the possibility to find that right someone is out there. The drums really stick out on this track. Modern Flame is my favorite on their second EP and I love the metaphor.
Smoke Yourself Thin – Some bands lose momentum throughout a CD, but not Walk Harbor City. You can get lost in the lyrics and sound of this song. There is so much love and energy behind everyone in the band. With one minute left all of the members really show off their entire range. There is no doubt that the boy will be there and wants to prove himself to his significant other.
I love the growth the band has made between their first and second EP. They still have the sound original sound that initially caught my attention, but they have expanded in the right direction. Walk Harbor City can be one of the next big names that emerges out of Boston.
Count Me In is a four piece pop-punk band from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Their first debut EP was released November 14th, 2009 and is called Can’t Hide This with four tracks (and there is an additional track on their myspace). Similar to most bands these days, they are using social networks such as myspace and twitter to gain a fan base outside of their hometown. All of their hard work is paying off – not only are they reaching out to new fans each day, their debut EP is carefully crafted into a great piece of music. Although they only have five songs, they are captivating from the beginning until the final notes. They draw on personal experiences and you can feel the emotion while they are playing. Most of their songs are about girls, but all still have their own individual sound. They are also really sweet guys who will try and talk to every single one of their fans. I just hope one day I can see them live, hear these songs performed on a stage and get to rock out with this band.
Drive All Night – The first song on the CD pulls you in immediately with its strong beats. It is a fun, upbeat dancing song that demonstrates what it is like to be out on the road. There is this feeling of being lost, but there is always that anchor, whether it is a person or an object, that keeps you grounded. This song is a perfect introduction for new fans because it really shows off all of the individual band members’ talents.
Favorite Line: “so give it up princess, take it or leave it”
If I Were You (I’d Act Like Someone Else) – Once again there are distinct drum beats in the beginning of the song that draw the listener in. Also, the song has a great guitar solo near the end of the song leading into the final chorus. If there has ever been the questionable relationship in your life or a significant other that is just not trustworthy than this song is for you. It is better to get rid of that person bringing you down than to hold onto an unhealthy relationship. Although the song has a good message, there are far too many distracting whoas.
Favorite Line: “Get it straight and don’t confuse fiction with fact”
Coming Home – After listening to the entire CD once, this was definitely my favorite song. The catchy lyrics telling the listener how to read the person they want impress are simply entertaining. It might just be worth it to go for that relationship than just site idly by and lose that opportunity. I love the vocals and the guitar on this song.
Favorite line: “maybe you’re right, that I should give up the fight/ but something’s got me thinking that you gotta believe me”
Pack Your Bags – The final song on the CD is slowed down and a change from the others. No CD would be complete without that cute song girls want written by their guy for them, and “Pack Your Bags” is that song. He doesn’t want to lose that love and wants to get the girl back because she is the number one thought in his head. The song itself is a little repetitive, but it picks up in the end and is adorable.
Favorite Line: “and ill stand my ground if it keeps you around”
Sing About You – Finally, this song is on their myspace. At points the instrumentals overpower the vocals, but there is a nice breakdown near the end. If someone is not right in your life than get away from them and search for something better. It is going to be hard to let go, but in the end it will all get better.
Favorite Line: “cause every road you take is just a mistake to make”
Check out Count Me In on:
http://www.myspace.com/countmeinfl
http://twitter.com/countmeinfl
Honor by August is four piece band from Washington, DC. They played at my school about two months ago and agreed to this interview. They are extremely funny and nice guys. Check them out at http://www.myspace.com/honorbyaugust
First off, what are the names of all the members in the band and what do they play?
Michael Pearsall - Lead Vocals, Guitar Evan Field - Lead Guitar, Vocals Chris Rafetto - Bass, Vocals Brian Shanley - Drums
How long ago did you guys start Honor by August? And how did it all begin?
Honor By August formed when Brian joined the band in the spring of 2005. Evan and I had been playing together for about a year with our original bass player Joe Wenger and drummer Eddie Fleming under a different name. Eddie left the band in early 2005 and we found Brian on Craigslist. We were all living in the DC Area and began performing as Honor By August and recorded our first album “Drowning Out The Television” in the summer of 2005 with producer Ted Comerford. A little over a year later our original bass player left the band at which point John Athayde joined us for a couple years before he was replaced by Chris. It’s been a little over a year and a half now since he joined and Honor By August is stronger than ever before.
Where did you get the name Honor by August?
We wanted a name that sounded good, was memorable and meant something to us. The word August is not the month (though we pronounce it that way) but rather the adjective august, meaning inspiring awe or admiration. So the idea is that you earn honor by doing something admirable or awe inspiring.
What is your favorite song to perform live?
Everyone in the band may have different answers for this question and the answer may also depend on when you ask the question because at times, certain songs become more enjoyable for one reason or another. But I think as a group we all really enjoy playing “Good Enough” because of Evan’s awesome intro and ripping guitar work. We also like Johnny (Pass Me Another One) because its quite different from the rest of our songs and allows me to just sing and work the room a little bit more. Probably one of the best live moments though of any show comes in “The Quiet Sky” when the whole crowd sings along with us at the end.
What rituals do you do right before you go on stage?
Everyone has their own little things they do but collectively we do a vocal warmup and just remind each other to rock out and have fun. We’re not too big on rituals.
Where do you pull your inspiration from to write your songs?
Every song is different but they are all based in some real experience, whether its one that I’ve had personally or one had by someone else, or some true emotion that the song is conveying. I have to believe the words that I’m singing so I try to sing about things that are meaningful to me. The songs are kind of out there in the atmosphere waiting for us to piece them together and we always do what we can to be true to the initial inspiration of each song. Whatever serves the song best is something we always say when we talk about our approach to songwriting.
What are your plans for the next few months?
We are finishing up one new song in the recording studio called “I Stand”. We have a major label showcase in NYC at the Mercury Lounge on Jan.7 and then we headline the 930 Club in DC on Jan. 8th. After those 2 big shows it will most likely be touring as usual and we’ll be shooting another music video as well.
Has anything really embarrassing ever happened while performing?
Thankfully I can answer no to this question. The worst thing that’s happened is we’ve blown out the power a couple times on stage and all the sound cuts out, or at least the PA system goes down. But when we at least have our amps still working, we just jam until the problem gets resolved.
What is one of the craziest stories from touring?
On our most recent run of dates out in California, back in October, a fan approached us at the Viper Room and said he had driven from Las Vegas to see us. He had seen our music video for the song “Found” at his gym in Vegas and loved it so he downloaded all our music and when he saw we were playing in Los Angeles, decided to make the drive out to the show. While there he said that if we were going to be coming through Vegas on our way home we should stop in at his restaurant and he would take care of us. So when we got to Vegas a few days later it turns out that he was one of the head waiters at one of the nicest restaurants in the MGM Grand. He treated us like kings to an amazing meal and drinks and it didn’t cost us a dime. Definitely one of the coolest things to happen to us; a true rockstar moment. We then went on to party with him all through the night resulting in a deservedly crazy night in Vegas.
And finally, anything else you want to share with your fans?
If you are a fan of our music, please come see us live. If you’ve seen us live, come again and bring a friend. The best thing you can do for us is tell more people about Honor By August and help us spread the word. We look forward to seeing you out there.
Black Friday will never be the same for me. Moral was low but has been raised by the loving people around us. Thank you for this
The Right Coast is an amazing band. Whoever did this is going to have karma bit them in the butt - big time. If you are looking for the next big thing, check them out. Don’t be a part of the huge bandwagon later. And when you find out you love them, buy/pre-order their cds!
Ever heard a song by a band for the first time and knew you would love them? Even it was just the first 30 seconds of their first song? That has only happened a few times in my life, and most recently occurred during the Cheap Date Tour. This band came on stage and did not hold back from the minute they began to the final few notes. Their energy and ability to control the stage was overwhelming. I wanted to dance and jump to all of their songs and was very upset when they were over. I loved their entire set and they killed it on stage.
The band in question is Down With Webster from Toronto, Canada. They were an opening band for Forever the Sickest Kids on The Cheap Date Tour. The entire show was very well done, but this band exceeded everyone’s expectations. The majority of the audience did not seem to react when they initially took the stage, but that was changed extremely quickly. People were jumping around, dancing to the songs and just having a good time. Although Down With Webster had a short set, they took full advantage and put on a great show. I also hung out with a few of the members after their set (Bucky, Marty, Pat and Cam). They were all really nice and fun guys to be around. I picked up their seven song CD, Time to Win Vol 1 and love every song. They remind me of 3oh!3 but more instrument oriented and more genuine lyrics.
Time to Win – The opening track has a lot energy and starts the CD off right. The fact paced beat, hard drums and catchy lyrics will keep anyone entertained. The song is about having a good time and not caring about anything else in the world at that moment. This song is one of my favorites off of the record.
Whoa is Me – A little bit slower than the opening song, but just as interesting. It is a small snapshot of fame and popularity, with all its ups and downs. There is the juxtaposition of “Whoa is me” and “I’m so whoa.” This band’s clever lyrics display the entertainment of fame as well as the sadness. My personal favorite part starts at 2:39 with Bucky’s verse and leads into a heartfelt guitar solo.
Your Man – No CD would be complete without the song that catches a girl’s heart. This track shows how these guys will be the perfect boyfriends. They will be there no matter what “and if you want me girl, I will be here forever” just like every girl wants. The song is more keyboard heavy and less hardcore rapping. It is a ballad without the sappy copycat lyrics and mediocre melody in pop songs.
Rich Girl$ - Every time I hear this song I just want to dance. This song has everything – catchy lyrics, infectious beat, well play instruments and cute guys to back it all up. Rich Girl$ is a must have for anyone’s library. They are also premiering a music video soon for this track. This is my favorite song off this album.
Miracle Mile – Nothing is going to hold this band down. They are going to work hard until they are on top. Even though they are running around everyday, this band is ready to perform. This song is for all of their fans, old and new, who have helped them succeed so far. They are saying thanks the best way they know how.
Back of My Hand – Ever been heartbroken before by an ex? Then this is the perfect revenge song for you. Down With Webster proclaims: “I thought I knew you like the back of my hand” while they were lied to by their exes. Anger and betrayal seep from the lyrics and instruments. It’s one big ‘eff you’ anthem.
Parade Music – The final song on their album ends it perfectly. From the beginning it starts off strong. This song is for a crazy party where there is beer and plenty of people are looking to hook up. Down With Webster ends their CD with a song that will bring back memories of that one out of control party you attended.
Give this band a chance and you will not regret it. I know I am going to see them again as soon as possible. Check them out at:
www.myspace.com/downwithwebster
www.downwithwebster.com
On October 28th 2009 at the Chameleon Club in Lancaster, PA, a traveling talent show stopped by. The bands, Runner Runner, Stereo Skyline, Every Avenue and The White Tie Affair, rocked the staged and showed off their skills. Each band had a unique sound, but came together as a whole to put on an amazing set.
The opening act, Runner Runner from Huntington Beach, California, started the show off with high energy and entertaining performances. Their songs ranged from cute love songs like ‘Dedicate’ to dance anthems like ‘So Obvious.’ Although the majority of the audience did not know them, they made a name for themselves and got the crowd into it. After their performance they hung out around the merchandise area and talked to everyone that came by. Runner Runner is a genuinely nice group of guys and their music will be big in the near future.
The next band was Stereo Skyline. They are from Long Island, New York and all extremely talented. Although they were quiet young, these boys know how to have a good time. Stereo Skyline’s guitarist had some very quick fingers and he has some serious talent. Their single ‘Heartbeat’ had a captivating chorus and the guitar riffs were performed amazingly. Cute songs and good performances were the key to Stereo Skyline’s set.
The second to last opening band was Every Avenue. They were one week away from releasing their sophomore CD Picture Perfect and had a very good set. Their hometown is Marysville, Michigan, but they have made a name for themselves well outside the state. Old favorites like ‘Think of you Later (Empty Room)’ and ‘Chasing the Night’ were performed as well as new songs like ‘Tell Me I’m a Wreck.’ This was a band that was meant to play live. Every single artist on the stage played their instrument perfectly and did just as well, if not better, than the CD. If one of them made a mistake the crowd did not catch it. They were a captivating band from the moment they stepped onto the stage to the final notes of their song. They had extremely high energy as well. Immediately after their set they were on the floor meeting their fans. Every Avenue is destined to be successful.
Finally, the opening act appeared on stage. The White Tie Affair from Chicago, Illinois had the most interesting and crowd oriented set of the night. From the get go they got the crowd dancing and singing, and had the best performance of the night. During their hit song ‘The Letdown’ the lead singer got in the middle of the crowd and sang while walking around. The band also threw out glow sticks to the crowd to get the audience ever more involved. Their cover of ‘Just Dance’ brought the entire crowd off their feet and dancing. For their encore, The White Tie Affair killed the lights, dressed in whites and neons, and jammed. Amazing, high energy and fun are the only words that can describe The White Tie Affairs show. The Traveling Talent Show was one of those shows that had the right mix of bands to make for a memorable night.
Check them all out on myspace!
Runner Runner : http://www.myspace.com/runnerrunnermusic
Stereo Skyline: http://www.myspace.com/stereoskyline
Every Avenue: http://www.myspace.com/everyavenue
The White Tie Affair: http://www.myspace.com/thewhitetieaffair
The Right Coast on October 19th 2009 at the Chameleon Club in Lancaster, PA. This is a cover of Taylor Swift’s ‘Love Story’
