| Randy Freinds Rant Number 12
( January 08)
This is Randy and Friends Rant
# 12 - The 2008 Update :
Randy Freinds Rant Number 12
This is Randy and Friends Rant
# 12 - The 2008 Update :
Send much love and good musical vibes to Randy, as we attempt to capture that same Ranting vibe here.
We want to wish The Cassandra Disease's Matt a quick recovery from his auto mishaps and look forward from hearing more on what they have in store in 2008.Also wishing Mind Asylums' lead singer Matt Wiggins a speedy recovery. Matt is having surgery on his hand as the result of an encounter with a brown recluse spider.
Word on how the spider is doing is forthcoming.
Heavy as F*k : part Killpact , Violent Impact and Reality’s Flaw, the newly formed “Upon Deaths Arrival “ : Donny Steel , Kris , Leabo, Joe and Moe will play their local debut @ the Vaudeville Mews on Feb 2nd .
While at an old location Steppin Out is now again Party Town – Rolls Royces –Toad Holler on Army Post ) has reopened its doors and is doing some selective live music dates.
In the ever-changing local Club
Scene, Peoples on Court has also made a strong entry in booking live some shows. Razz and Will take on the honors of continuing the strong live music tradition of the Hull Ave Tap - with a intimate evening witl Calous Grand Opening Jan 4th. Many “Thanks” to Mel and Ken for their hard work at the Hull!
We thought we would ask some folks for their input as we head towards 2008, and wish you all the VERY
BEST in 2008!Our prediction for 2008 is that the media coverage of the political
process in Iowa Caucus doesn’t help out one local band. Approximately $25 million dollars has been spent here during the Political Campaigning and not one candidate bought a local CD? Or appeared with a local band?
So speaking of politics …
Dum Fuxx - Denny - Whats Up?
We had the big ass DUMFUX show at Val Air this New Year's Eve. We've been practicing more this year than we have in the past and it's getting pretty tight... it's scary. I get to be a rock star one night a year, not a bad gig at all
"Whats was best part of 2007?
" Taking some time off to decompress after my last store closed down.
"What did you ask Santa for?
"A regular 5 day work week, and SLEEP!
"Predictions for 2008?
"I've been putting off playing in a regular band for a long time, I'm really considering taking the leap this year and get it going again. You never know...
"Calous:
Well, we have a couple of good shows coming up that will set the tone for the highly anticipated release of Calous' next full length studio CD "Building a Better Mars".First, our good friend Will has purchased The Hull Ave. Tap, and they have invited Calous to play the grand re-opening weekend on Jan. 4th. It will be a night with Calous, and the show will start at 10pm, and we will play until we decide to quit. It will probablly be two monster sets.
Next, Calous will be playing with Egypt Central and Dying Eyes on Feb. 8th at The House of Bricks. Egypt Central has been on the Family Values tour with Korn for some time now, and are currently on tour with Papa Roach and 5 Finger Death Punch. Dying Eyes are getting ready to hit the road with Machina on the "Modify your Life tour" that starts in Feb.,and Calous will be playing some select shows on that tour.
On March 15th, the tour finishes up in Des Moines at The House of Bricks, and Calous will be there to rock with all the great bands on this bill.Calous will also be bringing in "Sign of One" from Montreal Canada to play the March 15th show as they make there way accross the U.S. on tour. There is a rumor that Primer 55 might be on the March 15th bill as well, but the rumor has not been confirmed
.All this sets up the release of
"Building a Better Mars" by Calous!!!
More than This – Gary
Q. Best part of 2007 for MTT?
A. We did several Des Moines shows. It felt good to see our Des Moines friends on their turf, instead of making them drive to see us. We also did some ABATE shows that were fun. And we have to mention all the faithful MTT followers who come to the shows in the towns outside of Des Moines too. Newton - Oskaloosa - Knoxville - Chariton, these people are just party animals!
Q. What should we look for in 2008?
A. We've got some original music that we're getting ready to record. We've all done original projects in the past, but after 2+ years of playing other people's music, we decided it was time to write some songs under the MTT moniker. As soon as we get the tracks down, we'll post a few of them on our myspace page. We're also looking forward to booking some more shows in Des Moines, as well as continuing to build our following east & south of the metro.
Q. Any other predictions ?
A. I predict we'll get a whole bunch of new myspace friends when they go to www.myspace.com/morethanthisband and add us! Also check out the video and audio clips at www.morethanthisband.com
Black Market Fuckin' Fetus – Nate:
Whats New with BMF ?We are actually in the studio right now, it's taking a little time but we are almost done with 7 new songs for a couple split 7"s that will be released early 08' like finally putting out the long anticipated "by us anyway" split 7" with IMPALER ..shock rock legends (they will be coming back to Des Moines late January, and a split with Hardcore dudes IN DEFENSE as well.
What was the best thing about 2007?
Getting to play some killer shows with bands like SKELETONWITCH, WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM, M.D.C., and many other killer bands, we also went out to Portland which was fun but that turned sour because our drummer broke his ankle while moshing to DECAPITATOR, which sucks because we were scheduled to play between GHOUL and NUNSLAUGHTER two killer bands! So I guess that would have been a highlight but not so much of a good one.
What are the 2008 plans?
Well the above stated split 7"s for sure, we are playing with SOURVEIN and ZOROASTER on Feb. 17th at The Vaudeville Mews and with M.OD. (Featuring Billy Milano of S.O.D.) and CROSS EXAMINATION on Sat. March 15th which will be a thrashtastic experience. We also have a trip to FO REAL FEST out in Ohio and will be doing a small tour around that like Illinois, Indiana, Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis etc. so not a large scale tour but still getting out there a bit, we plan on working on a national tour as soon as we start writting for a new full length as well as maybe another European tour for 2009!
Prediction for 2008?
Uh... some asshole will get elected some more shit will get fucked up and we will still all be fucked?Cheers to all and to all a brutal 2008!Billy 7 – Gimmick Best
Part of 20007:
That when Steve Lash decided to leave Gimmick and move to Florida, we found James Brinker who responded to an ad at Professional Music Center. James has been a very inspiring musician to work with. IN 2007 we slowed on the bookings at the end of the year to focus on creating new music, as a result there WILL BE a new Gimmikk CD by the end of 2008.Predictions for 2008: More Gimmikk out of State gigs.
And Axel gives up on “Chinese Democracy”,
Guitarist David Miller:
Rearview takes off January and we should look for more from them in Febuary – Look Them back to rock as a four piece with some new tunes in 2008! David and Jasonic split to persue some different projects - look for more on that later.
Predictions :
It Is good ..we like it !
Matt Biegger:
What’s News :
I just uploaded my new Matty's music myspace page featuring some of the b-sides, previously unreleased, or digitally re-mastered songs from my recent and distant past...you can check those out on www.myspace.com/beegstunes So dig it. In more exciting news, I am currently writing, rehearsing, and recording with a band named
"Tribe of Lions". Featuring ex-Filthy Wilma mates Brian Vance on guitar, and Paul Thompson on drums. Pauls brother Wade(To My Surprise, Tyler Thompson Band) is on bass, and rounding out that line-up is former Junk Poet band-mate Jay Lyon(also from Soul Sick, and Devil w/Cheese). Probably one of the heaviest bands I've been in. It's great playing with
old mates, no egos, just fun.
I'm also working on a cover project with Taco, David Baker, and Greg Stravers,
all from Soul Sick.
It will be a tribute to the 90's genre, with some crowd pleasers both modern and pre 90's as well. Also, still have yet to do a cd release party for the Hallway Heavies cd here in Des Moines. The cd was finished last year... That will be coming up this year as well. Very funky, jazzy fusion-y!!!
myspace.com/hallwayheavies
Last but not least, I am still workin as
a solo/duo performer nearly three
nights a week here in Des Moines and surrounding, so get out and see me. Check Juice and Cityview. The best part of 2007 other than the fact that it's over is, I met my soulmate, my solo career took off well, and George Bush is gonna get the fuck out of office.
Predictions ?
We will have our first black president, Tribe of Lions will dominate the world, and 2008 will be "The year of the Biegger" Why? Cuz 2008 rhymes with "Masturbate" which I happen to do a LOT of... (Stay Tuned!!!!!) Peace ya'll!!!!!
!
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Rant Number 11
I don’t like bad news or sad news but unfortunately it sometimes comes with the turf we attempt to cover so lets get this rant under way:I'm greatly saddened to report that long time drummer for many of The Des Moines Area local punk and underground bands passed away
last week. Joe Page was not only a long time support of the local music and underground scene but was a back beat to many of the early bands that shaped the Des Moines Scene
for close to 20 years. The bands
Joe played in include : 23 Lies - The Catalinas - Death Valley Murmurs-The Delstars- The Hollowmen - and Voodoo Gearshift , Joe Page will be
missed by many.
We also send our belated and
sincere condolences to the friends and families of Axis Band
Keyboard player Donnie Norman, who passed away the past June. As a member of Axis for nearly 8 years, Donnie brought joy to many.
Joseph Parish (Jo Jo ) 61 years old died Friday July 30th 2007 he
was a local musician and was known for his storytelling and enjoyed friends and music.
In an unrelated, but worthy note :
bands will play a Benefit for Jordon Martin, age 14, at the House of Bricks on August 4, 2007. Jordon was involved in a tragic accident that claimed the life of his nine-year-old sister Emily and left their mother Sarah in critical condition. The
Benefit line up will include The Bob Pace Band , Di- Fi , World Under and The Cassandra Disease . For more information contact Crystal.
And last of the sad news
– Good-bye Hairy Mary's … many good times where shared: Metal Church, Mastodon, Shadows Fall, 3 inches of Blood, Fu Manchu .. They weren't’t that long ago.
The Cassandra Disease has
released a 5 song EP with new music.You can check out The new CD/ EP “The Morning Star in Heaven”
On the bands website – or see them Live : Aug 3 and 4 @ House of Bricks
and Aug. 18 @ Saylor Skate Park. In another upcoming benefit The Mosaic Benefit Show will feature
Facecage , On A Pale Horse ,
Only, A.M. Conspiracy , One SIde Zero
September 8th at 7 Flags Event Center. Band News : Leabo has posted the following regarding Killpact :
" We have decided to end the
Killpact era. No drama, no real reasons then its just a time to evolve, take some chances and work with some new people. Its been a privilege and a great pleasure playing in this band, and Working with all my close brothers who have come and gone. There's been some amazing memories made, and its something I cherish. I remember going with Rick when he tried out for vocals back in 01'... Then To actually play in it 4 years later is crazy. All the memories of Ernie rockin it hard, Don slayin, fuck man, its been unreal. Thanks to
everyone who was there, supported, partied, fist fought, got laid,
Mourned with us, all the bands, just everyone. Kick fucking ass.”Calous Takes You on the Road -
to The Rock in Maplewood, MN
The bus trip leaves at 1 PM on Aug 4 from 300 Locust and tickets go
Fast so check out the Calous blog for more information! Reunions
Thunder Teaz (1982- 1997)
A few years ago Gary Benson (guitar & vocals) and Kevin Morrissey (drums) founded the 3 AM Band, and slowly but surely other members of Thunder Teaz found themselves recruited for this band. Tom Murphy (bass & vocals), Lance Harrison (guitar & vocals) joined the band, which filled out the chemistry. They still perform together as the 3 AM band with Lindsey Logsden (vocals). This July the band celebrated its 25th anniversary. So if you wanna hear some good rock and roll played the way its supposed to be played then be sure to listen for the thunder and catch Thunder Teaz at the Hull Aug 10th & Aug 17th at Cycles Walnut Tap.Zef Reunion - Gary Seddon
of More Than This has informed us that on Aug 4th. 9PM. Rookies Sports Bar. Osceola IAAll 5 members from the ZEF album WHEN HEAVEN SHAKES together for the 1st time in 15 years.In an honest mistake we overlooked that “Angry Gods of the Radio” where also selected and played the Godsmack show in Ames Sunday, July 22. A Belated congratulations – sorry for the F up guys.Cedar Rapids Joel McDowell & Brook Hoover of the Meerkats have formed a
new band called Spider Gear. The Debut CD is set for an August 28th
release. Hailing from Carrol Iowa
“Dago and Criminal History” have posted the title song of the new CD
“Unbreakable “ . To be released as soon as worthy art is created. They will be hosting their annual Summer Bash Aug. 4th in Carroll, IA.In something a little different we look at means to market a band on the web.
Is the Myspace craze for a band is getting worn? Though it is still a very good way to connect with fans, new web community outlets like Bebo – Hi5 and - Facebook with its newly launched iLike,com : has become the fastest-growing digital music service on the Internet, registering a million new users per week and fielding information requests from record labels every half-hour.Other social networking communities
that feature bands and music include Buzznet , Friendster - Soundclick, Tagged - Reverb Nation, Sonic Garden, Altsounds , Soundpedia and Sellaband.com to name a few. Here are more with unique marketing and listener features : MOG is a site where computer users who listen to their music primarily on their computers or iPods can set up personal pages with their musical interests and listening history.
MOG is similar to Last.FM, but it first uploads a listing of a user's digital music collection to their MOG page, then it keeps track of what music is played on the user's computer. Other features include music-focused blogging, dedicated pages for artists, albums and songs, tagging of music items, and direct links to iTunes and Amazon for music purchases. Fliptrack, specialist in user- generated musical slideshows and videos, has partnered with APM Music, a production music library, to bolster its already extensive popular music catalog by 225,000 songs and recordings. The move, creates a mashup music library available today.
Fuzz.com – Features many independent artist it can feature your band too, or you can sign up as fan, rate music and help your favorite artist. Bands can pinpoint listeners on Google maps.Second Life – Feature a music community that allows bands to play or for your avatar to visit clubs where others are playing, Second Life is kind of like the Sims online on steroids - only it uses it own currency that is earned or purchased with a credit card. Basic membership is free. Check out the Frogg Marlow story on MTV.
Garageband.com – A music community which has a wealth of information about labels, copyrights, free downloads, band profiles and the opportunity for bands to get heard and fans to hear new music.
Marketing on the web is a complex issue for bands. A word of caution – if you put your music or video on the web, to play in a browser, people can and will take it without paying. That is the reality. Copyright infringement on any transferable media has always been a reality, the tools just change. Online radio stations like Pandora and 365 Live along with all those stations on your itunes lists of live podcast are an alternative means of getting airplay. Then if you are musician looking for gigs there is now Virtual Studio Technology. Digitalmusician.net. uses the new DM-Recorder software from DM Digital Musician as an
all-in-one solution for musicians to produce recordings on the Internet. The application not only combines recording, communication and data exchange but also links up with musicians and producers on the Community area.
There are many ways to share and make music on the intranet
These are a few from one
of 10,000 bassist in world...Randy.
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Rant# 10 ... 2007 Randy and Friends Rants
Welcome back to another Rant....
This time out it's going to be short...
We here at Rant central would like to Thank all the people who have checked out the website over the last couple months...4,000 views a month is a good thing...That basically means there are 4,000 people interested in what your doing musically...Take advantage of
it and send us some stuff so we can better support YOU...
Matt Biegger just got out of Catamount
last week, with a new band called "Project Bluebook". Now officially called the "Hallway Heavies".
It's funk, jazz, soul, rock,
fusion, featuring Matt, Justin Appel,
Nate Peoples, Don Jaques, Matt Hartleip(guit), Brandon Mills(Bass) and insane drummer named A te 47. We will have the record out by the end of the month . They will be playing our first gig @ El Bait Shop Sunday March 25th. It will be a doozy, and I hope you can make it. 8 to 11 pm. Til then have a "listen back" from Catamount you can check out. It is the outro to one of the tunes called "Life is Beautiful"On A Pale Horse has a CD Release Party set for June 8th @ House of Bricks.
A bit of what soundz are ahead at link
above. Angry Gods of Radio have released their 1st CD on Mushroom Cloud Records - check it out for yourself at the links above. Don't rely on some one else's review to tell you what's good( you do have a mind?).
Rearview has had some recent line up changes and now features Andy on vocals and Jasonic on Drums. Best of luck to the former band mates Dave (drums ) who now can pay attention to the family, and Steve who now fronts Gimikk ( formerly known as Gimmick maybe soon to be Gymyk ...kinda like Lynyrd Skynyrd ?)- They changed the name gimmick .. sorta ..
Spring brings the summer concert onslaught to Iowa and a Rant:
Many local venues now in competition ... which can be a good thing for the musical consumer leads to everything from Keith Urban to the Killers , but does little to promote locals.
The Des Moines Music Coalition has reached a little further out to involve the rock /metal community for this we give them praise
and hope that the diversity of their projects provides strength not division.We wish them the best with Gross Domestic Product.
In a Typical Iowa summer the Local Acts play a different array of smaller local festivals - Clive - some may play the Des Moines Arts Festival. The State Fair has done little to support local acts (outside of the Nadas and the Blue Band). Does Iowa Rock belong at the Iowa State Fair? Last year while Joan Jett played a few local had an opportunity to play - Lets hope this year more local rock acts have an opportunity to do the same.
It is pretty clear that the Iowa State Fair is not about local talent, but more about putting on
a "stereotypical face" that the rest of the world "wants Iowa to be" . Its a shame that they
can't support original local music. And even more shameful that they don't use some of the great local acts that do covers ( many on our bands list page ). They haven't even used Iowa tribute bands like Deuce .
Deuce KissMas Show
The Iowa State Fair's shame is not about the debate over if Iowa talent exists, but really over what "style of music is acceptable " not "what is popular." Perhaps we are wrong and the State fair has steered away from local rock acts because they want it to be a "special showcase " ... No Rock - No hip hop - No Punk or Metal from Iowans allowed ?
This is message the I get ..The Alive Concert Series and Nitefall on the River - last years two downtown Des Moines Simon Estes Amphitheater concerts could include locals as openers ? Or is it more
a game of "Who knows who" and would either consider doing a local showcase on a Saturday Night ... No word from either on line-ups or dates.
One more question, as food for thought:
If the Arts festival is about diversity ( All sorts of music as Art ) where was Black Market Fetus or DJ Starsscream ? For all the talk about diversity from the commissions - and alliances, you'd think the people on these boards lived in a time warp with the Clevers next door - its
really about saving face and drawing the right demographic in crowds ..so drop the bullshit .
I don't see anyone new from the local radio stations stepping up to promote any local bands that doesn't have to do with lining their pockets either ...I guess it's just a lot easier and safe to just lay back in the weeds and play it safe.
I had the pleasure of attending a couple Iowa Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame shows recently...and the good news is both shows had over 500 people in attendance.
Everyone involved in the IRRMA is bond and determined to make sure there will still be a hall of fame to honor the people out there in the trenches when their number comes up in the future.They also just released a 29 song cd from members and inductees that you can purchase at www.iowarocknroll.com
It's also good news to hear
The Hull Ave. is having live music again..
As always be sure to check out the Proboards link located on this website.. It's a place for local music supporters to check out...
Des Moines Music Proboards
As stated at the beginning of this Rant,
This is your column be a part of it...
There are people waiting eagerly to know what you and
your band are up to!
Randy
Email me
Greetings ... Welcome back to another Randy and Friends Rants column.... # 9 - 2007
We thought it would be a good idea to go directly to the source and as promised last column take a look into the future and see what some of the local musicians and bands have on tap for 2007.
First a very quick look back.
Thanks to Stone Sour for the free show this year at House of Bricks .We started to think of the best shows this year and it doesn't get any better than FREE
and KICK ASS.
There where some good shows … we will leave it at that. Oh yeah ...we heard they where going to have Ozzfest day at the Iowa State Fair this year (yeah right). Maybe we should start a petition?
We asked a few people to name best Cd's of the past year - only had a couple responses:
Jim Clark (Extinguisher)
(No Particular order) Lamb of God, "Sacrament" Black Label Society "Shot To Hell" and of course Stone Sour "Come What(ever) May ".
Gary (More Than This)
1. Paul Gilbert - Get Out of My Yard This one's mainly for guitarheads. He's so good it makes me want to stop pretending to be a guitarist and just sing.
2. Entwine - Fatal Design Really heavy, maybe a little poppy, which is surprising since they started out as a death metal band.
3. Breaking Benjamin - Phobia Another CD that manages to be heavy and catchy at the same time. I like it.
I think you will agree the Des Moines music scene is alive and well in 2007 and we have lots to look forward to.
On to the responses we received
(in order recieved ) :
1. Cold Filtered
Now that we finally have a solid line up (It seems like we were always looking for drummers) Hopefully we can get back to the studio and get a second CD out. We are starting to work on some new songs now so with a little luck we will get the new cd out before Waterstock. See you around.
Brian - Cold Filtered
2. SCRUE
Ed here . . . we had a blast at the KGGO show. Right now, we have nothing on the books for 2007. We booked three shows in three weekends here in December just to see how people liked it, and how well we could pull it off. Things seem like they are going in the right direction. An interesting group of guys that all have a soft spot for Crue. I could go on, but if you really want to "the dirt", we should talk some time. I see lots of bigger "events", less club shows. Ed - SCRUE
3. Jay (Soul Sick / Red King)
I'm not playing, taking a step back from the scene... I have begun recording other people though after years of recording myself and bands. Check it out here, just a start anyway. http://www.myspace.com/red_king_music Thanks for the interest! -Jay
4. Deuce
2007 looks to be a big year for the guys in deuce. all of us have been in the studio with our respective bands in 2006. All of the cd's are going to be released at various time through out the year. Deuce doesn't have anything booked at the moment but we do plan on putting on the party again. Hopefully we can hook up with KGGO and bring it to the ice arena again.
Joey - Deuce
5. Gimmick
We are most certainly pumped for 2007. As some may know we have a new lead vocalist Steven Lash, who we have chosen to be the new voice of Gimikk.He has alot to offer,and we see much potential in him. We, like any other band out there,look forward to playing new venues And stompin new grounds.And hope to see our following grow,as well as our writing. Stay tuned this summer for our new released album,KINDRED PUPPET!!!
Billy - Gimmick
6. Great Big Mouth Records / Facecage
What's up with the record label and management company in 2007 ?:
2007 is shaping up to be a huge year for (515) MANAGEMENT, GREAT BIG MOUTH RECORDS and FACECAGE. FACECAGE
just had it's first national album review for 'III' in the January issue of REVOLVER magazine and we are looking with great anticipation to REVOLVER's upcoming 2 page feature on the band in March. Since magazines run a month or two early, that issue should hit the newsstands January 25th or so.
We are gearing up for a lot of crazy stuff, a lot of surprises that we can't talk about yet. One thing in particular is just MASSIVE, absolutely monumental. If we pull this off, FACECAGE will be the only non-SLIPKNOT related project, Des Moines band, to ever do it.
Question For You: What's your take on the under 21 crowd and live music?
The under 21 crowd is going to be the lynchpin to a healthy live music scene here in Iowa. Most FACECAGE shows are all ages because the kids 'get it' and they support it. I'm 34. I remember back when the only options you had to see live music under 21 was either a fly by night promotion at a VFW hall and/or Sunday show at the Runway Nightclub. A lot of the kids forget this scene wasn't always like this. A lot of times WE were forbidden to play ANYTHING origoinal, only covers. Those days sucked, and I hope they understand how good they have it now. Hopefully, the City Council will realize that bars are only smaller versions of Wells Fargo Arena and ease the restrictions somewhat. You can buy beer at 'The Well' too, only the Security to Patron ratio is worse there than at the Bar!
I would rather have the kids supervised and safe at The House of Bricks or Hairy Mary's than hanging out at 10th and Locust. What do I know though? I was one of those kids at 10th and Locust.
DENNY -
7. Odium :
2007 should remain consistent with the 6 year long odium existence... we put out an album touched by god, play a ton of shows from here to guam, record execs continue to ignore us, etc., etc. The new full length album for 2007 (12 songs plus extra stuff...I love extra stuff) is coming along swimmingly... the material continues to mature. very exciting... sonically.
Of course we'll also do some sort of tour. We'll probably head to the desert as they seem to really enjoy buying our album, which is nice. we also plan on expanding our stage and venue show in hopes of turning the in town shows into a living canvas for us to fuck with. Should be great fun.
Best memories of 2006:
1) Driving to the southwest playing a series of shows that rival some of our in town shows. i bought an authentic poncho made in mexico from an Indian and then saw the same poncho at Wal-Mart for 20 bucks more. i wish I would have bought more ponchos but I really didn't feel like the poncho industry was for me.
2) Releasing the orange album. it is the precursor to the one we are writing presently. Speaking for myself, I love it. Hopefully in the next week or so, the odium "year in review" newsletter will be out so check out the blog thingy and I'll put it there.
I hope your 2007 kicks the ever-lovin' shit out of your 2006.
Jim - Odium
8. Full Throttle
Best of 2006 : Clive Festival once a year thing...and we don't really have a lot booked next year we never do all the gigs just seem to pop up when ever ....just lucky I guess although we are booked at rocks for my b-day bash Feb.10th other than that I am opening my own store on the South side should be up and running around the 1st of the year … Satellite T.V. and Home Theater will be the focus I am a DirecTV retailer Imagine that!!!.
Kelly - Full Throttle
9. Little Mojo :
All has been great for us in 2006 looking into 2007. We're currently finishing up
a 3-month recording stint here in New York City for our new record that will be released nationwide in mid-2007. Look for a large tour to follow, lots of radio play throughout the country, and many many good times - check out this account for more info over the next couple of months -
www.myspace.com/littlemojo
Peace, love, rock n roll - Josh - Little Mojo
10. Tyler Thompson Band
All is well with the TTB. Just finished our third album and getting ready to release it. We had a blast recording it with Brian Vance studios up in Ankeny, Ia. and cant wait for you to hear it,
peace, and have a great holiday,
Wade - Tyler Thompson Band
11. Dark Mirror
Actually right off the first week of the new year we are going into a studio in Cedar Falls, to record our first full length cd.
We are currently setting up some show dates around the midwest. We will be continuing to play local shows and continue looking at label interest to see if we can find something that suits us.
--Mark- Dark Mirror
12. Matt Beigger
Well, the solo act is going real well, booking lotso gigs. Playing solo/duo acts
is much more lucrative and hassle free than I had ever imagined. I am poising myself to turn this into a band thing later down the road, as soon as I have my originals written and recorded. I am enjoying having a guitar in my hands as
a front man now, even though I am no {insert your guitar hero here}.
The funny thing is, this will be more countryish or Americana than anything I have ever done. Still exploring new styles I guess. Other than that, I may be working with Michael Curry and Matt Maines on an upcoming progressive metal project. We still have yet to get together, trying to find time these days is quite difficult. I have a couple other prospective irons in the fire as always.
Matt Bieggger
13. More Than This :
Plans for the band for 2007?
Play Des Moines more often! We've had some fun gigs at Hull Avenue Tavern, and met some really cool people, so I would like to see MTT playing Des Moines on a more regular basis.
Gary Seddon - More Than This
14. DM Music Board:
You can meet and chat with local bands and musicians. It's a good way to swap gigs, network, and get to know people in the scene a little better. A lot of people use it to advertise gear they want to buy and sell, as well. There is a quite a bit of video posting and general goofiness, too. I'll be in touch again soon with more information about more things!
Raz
15. Realitys Flaw :
I think 06 was the ice breaker for a lot
of bands it was a good year we saw our local scene get stronger with every show that came through Ithink 07 is expected to be huge...there are lots of good bands
around here that are gonna do big things and Ibelieve the midwest is going to
attract some much needed attention
and we are gonna do that with the ever growing family within our scene...so be prepared !
As I had said there is lots of bands around here that impress me so i just look forward the seeing what to come....
Peace, Kris - (Vox) Realitys Flaw
16. Brook Hoover
2006 was pretty good for me. My studio has gotten a little more attention from local bands and artists. I seem to have come up with a good solution to getting good drum sounds by investing in some good Earthworks mics and having a few great drummers tweak the Gretsch kit I have . Also have a great partner in the studio , Tim King, who mixes and masters songs I track on a computer. To get to
this point took many years, and 2006 seems to be the year it allcame together. Also had some good times with The Surf Zombies, opened for Dick Dale and are working on a cd to be released. Meerkats played 2-3 gigs almost every week. So
that was nice to have a band that does songs I think are cool do well. I'm really thankful for the opportunity to keep doing what I do even if it is way uinder the radar of the big time.
Also have been getting into teaching guitar even more...I get really happy about seeing kids put things together and getting a solid framework with their guitar and bass playing. I hear about former students going out and making me proud. In my little world, things are reasonably cool. Thanks for asking! Next year I 'd really like to get a Meerkats cd out. Why we take so long...is because we 2nd guess ourselves into obsolecence. Also would like to do a solo cd.
Brook Hoover
17. Huguenin
I was deployed to Iraq in February 05
and returnd to Iowa April 06. The deployment really changes a persons perspective on life. On never truly know's what it feels like to live day to day not knowing whether or not that is your final day. Well that had driven me to the next CD Release I'm currantly working on.
Now that I'm back and alive, I've had to ask myself the question..."Where From Here" which will be the title of the new CD.
I started recording it Oct 06 with the
single "Fly away". This next CD will be of European Metal Genre and alot of the
lyrics will be of the things experianced in Iraq or the thoughts in my head. The
best music is written in feeling and I believe this new material of 16 songs is
the best I've written to date. Currently I have Marcus Peterson and Doug Beary of the band Defyance www.defyance.com and a Bass buddy of mine Robert Haspels.
You can check out more at www.seanhuguenin.com.
I'd like to thank all of you for whom sent emails and support the troops in Iraq for it's your belief in them, not necessarily the war, that gets them through this. Thanks again and more to follow.
Peace; Sean Huguenin
20. Sinhinge:
In this next year, we are looking to book more shows, but be more selective as to only doing shows, where we know we can self promote more effectively. In the past two months, we have subjected ourselves to playing a few shows that others were responsible for booking/promoting, and were short notice - and the turnouts were not as high as we would have expected- but the shows were a good experience for us, as we are continuing to define our our stage show. We are also working on new material, and doing some more recording of some of our previous songs. Playing at the Iowa State Fair last year was definitely a lot of fun for all of us- Big thanks to Jason Boggs to getting us on that show !
Paul - Sinhinge
21. On A Pale Horse:
Mixing of the new album is done, mastering is next. Once it's all done, it's just getting a buzz going for it and spreading the word. This album may surprise some people... we really went with our influences instead of trying to define a specific sound. I think the end result comes out very honest.
Josh - On A Pale Horse
THANKS to all who have contributed to the Rants Column in 2006 and a round of drinks goes out to all the folks who read it... Remember this is your column... Randy
One of 10,000 bass players on the planet, and a few friends.....
Randy.
Randy VanHosen
3102 State Ave.
DesMoines,Iowa 50317
or Email me
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Welcome back to another
addition
Rant 8..The After 6 Rants Columns..I
felt like I had a chance to say all I had to say...
Thanks to the www.stars4iowa.com staff...
It has been a honor to be able to talk about a subject that has been
close to me for 40 years.. The Iowa music scene and the musicians...
I was heading for early retirement... But I wanted to come back one
more time... Just to say good-bye to all the people who support this
website and have taken the time to read the Rants column and send in
some valuable feedback...
Isn't it interesting how a Iowa musician
will drive 100 miles to save 20 cents on a 12 pack of guitar picks..But
the following night will lug every piece of gear he or she owns and
play with every once of energy they pocess to play a benefit for a worthy
cause for free...nobody better ever say...Iowa musicians don't have
heart and soul....
It's the musicians who make the music .. Not the radio DJ's
If you have been following the Rock Star Super Nova show this
year.. Then you have heard them talking about the best unsigned singers
in the world are on the show.. which seems rather strange to me..Because
I heard at least 5 singers audition at Prairie Meadows alone who blew
away everyone on the show and I left early...
Brian Burgett did a version of (welcome to the jungle) that would
of sent all 12 contestants home with their tails between their legs....
Kelly Heathcote was hanging around checking
it out..He could of been a contender any day of the week... Where was
Matt from Treble Hook...The guy is a world
class singer...
So If the Rock Star show is bragging about having the best unsigned
singers in the world... I'm saying I live in a city with some of
the most talented musicians in the frickin universe... Which brings
up another point to ponder over cold beers at the Hull Ave. Tavern the
next time your out checking out the locals.
Why is it the same 2 or 3 bands keep making
the big pay checks at the Iowa State Fair... Come on people this
is getting more predictable then the butter cow and over priced funnel
cakes... Lets spread it out..give some of the new up and coming
bands a shot at the big payday... I'm not going to mention any names..to
protect the guilty...But if you check out the roster on the free stages
the local bands hasn't changed in 10 years.... We are Happy to say that
there will be a Battle of the Bands the last day that will give some
localsan oppurtunity
to play ...so we have heard ..
There are several things on the local scece
that are noteworthy to aspiring musicians :
The
Cassandra Disease i
s looking for a guitarist -
Yet another Stone Sour
mildstone : The New Release sold out of stock in All Des Moines Best
Buy Stores on August 1st ... nearest CD could be located in Ames Best
Buy ... Through Glass is now the
# 2 Hot Mainstream Rock track according to the Billboard Charts.
The album charted at #4 in its first full week.
Lots of Local New Music!! Local releases include Facecage
III - the premiere of the new Corey
Taylor's Label Big Mouth Records.
Calous is
back in the studio working on getting the new sound out - The "Building
a Better Mars" CD is being produced by Fred Missouri should be ready
later this year -
Realitys Flaw has been working
on the final mix/master of the upcoming CD at Catamount Studios - See
the interview - buy the CD - After Forever!!!
Odium
has also released the "Orange Album" (in May ) and is recording Album
II due out in January of 2007 with a complete 3 CD set by May 2007..
Andrew Rouw (aka Andrew Colsefni) and Vice
Grip Throttle long awaited self titled CD ready to rev
it up with an All Ages Release @ HOB on Aug 12th ...
Mindrite
has a CD release "Razing the Sun" - set for Aug 25th - new stuff recorded
with some assitance from Destrophys madman Ari ...for the release
show price of admission gets you the CD also.
A Big Stars 4 Iowa Props to
Black
Market Fetus
they have been hit the long road as hard as any local - touring in Europe
last February- and are playing in Oakland and Berkley California Aug
11th & 12.
I sent out a plea to some loyal musicians
and music supporters from around Des Moines and asked them to help out
and review their favorite local releases and
here is what I got back. I figured They would be far more accurate
then a couple of the lame reviews I have read as of late... I personally
think that if you don't have something good to say..about a local bands
release...then keep your big fat mouth shut... Any local reviewer who
would slam a local band needs to be run out of town on a rail... There
is no room for that kind of negitive bullshit in and around this city...
I wouldn't line my birdcage with one I read recently...
Especially when it comes from someone who
DOESEN"T EVEN PLAY A INSTRUMENT... I'm hoping that the www.stars4iowa.com
people will let me make a come back once in a while and Rant...This
is the most important central Iowa music web site on the internet ...
One of 10,000 bass players on the planet, Randy
NO. 6 of
Randy's Rants and Raves
I was searching through the March 23rd issue of Shittyview looking for
restaurant coupons.. When I stumbled across an article on the Des Moines
Music Commission An advisory group to the Des Moines city council. The
commission was debating on whether or not to honor Grammy award winners
Slipknot with
a proposed city hall ceremony. I haven't checked anybody's gig resume
on the city council, but I imagine between all of them it's pretty thin.
As for the Des
Moines Music Commission, you would think they would have some
bigger fish to fry, and this was a no brainer. There are more great
bands, better musicians, better songs being written and performed then
anytime in the history of central Iowa and to top it off more loyal
fans then ever before.
Why don't they take some of that grant money and call a record
company and get a couple A&R people here for a showcase and lets get
some people signed to a good record deal. I'm talking for all types
of music labels. Nothing is going to spark plug the scene here like
getting bands signed. We have tried to support local musicians - possibly
done as much as anyone on your friggin committee with this web site...
and did it for free to boot...Must be something to do with the fact
that this web site won't kiss your corporate butts. There is more productive
work towards a better music scene going on over at the Iowa
Proboards then the Des Moines Music Commission has been able to
muster up and it's a whole hell of a lot more fun...and the price is
right. Also Check out a new resource for local bands -
Dick-n-Jane.net
I'm in a real good place in life. I can tell the
program director at Q102 to kiss my ass. What's he going do. NOT play
my CDs. I can Tell Heather to quit pumping her brothers band every 5
minutes on the air, and spread that love of local music around.- what's
she going do not play my record CD's. I can walk up to Van and Bonnie
and say, "I've heard mimes that have better radio personalities then
you 2 hicks", and what are they going do not play my records. I can
walk up to any bar owner in Des Moines and say, "You're a lame ass for
not letting us in to review a band or get photos for an interview and
not pay cover - (Unless the band is doing a door gig). We applaud the
folks at Q105.1
for playing local bands during a friday drive time as a promo for a
local gig!!!
As for the Commission : I want some people
making decisions for me that have been stiffed on a couple shows: people
that know how it fells to bust your ass and go home empty handed cause
a bar owner spent all your pay on coke.I want someone who has spent
all their gig money making a recording and then have some asshole who
doesn't play music bash their recording and base the review on one trivial
miss quoted lyric .When or is the commission dealing with radio program
directors? I want someone who knows how it feels to be rejected and
told they are not good enough to be played on a radio station because
they are just a local band. I want someone who has humped some gear
up 3 flights of stairs and does 4 sets and moves it back out and gets
home at 6 in the morning: so they can bring some passion to the commission,
someone who has been there and done that. I want someone who has had
a band vehicle break down at 5 in the morning and it's 20 below. Then
maybe we'll have someone on the commission that understands and will
help get respect for those who play music in central Iowa. How many
dues has the city council paid to be able to make decisions for me or
any other area musician for that matter. And they question weather to
"recognize" a certified platinum selling, Grammy winning
artist from their hometown? To late the rest of the world already
did ! I know this all goes with the territory and political
bs of being a central Iowa musician. But come on …
This might be of interest to you if you
like rock history and/or play in local bands: Tom Tourville has been
doing research on Midwest rock history since the mid 70s. He has published
15 books on Midwest rock history and records. His books cover states:
Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Kansas,
Oklahoma and Illinois (with the Chicago area). He has also done a book
on Iowa's IGL Record Label and his newest book is called. The Midwest
Rock Art Collection, books on the best of the Midwest 50s -70s rock
band posters. He writes a music column for Twist & Shout-Ft. Dodge,
IA. The Okobojian-Spirit Lakes, IA. Blues Monday-Rochester, MN. and
Twin Cities Blues News-Minneapolis. If you haven't head of Tom Tourville:
that's o.k. Because its only a matter of time until he is going to hear
about you. Tom is also one of the board member for the IRRMA and take
my word for it. Don't get in a game of Iowa rock trivia with him¦ For
more info on Tom Tourville.. p.o.box 404 Spirit Lake,Iowa 51360
Dave Ellis, Kelly Heathcote, Bill King, Ronnie Richardson, and Dave
Peterson have
Full Throttle up and running again (with some help from the
Skully production team) It's great to see them back at it again with
a stellar supporting cast as usual. They are sure to contribute to some
summer fun!
I want to send out a shout to Sean from the will be coming back from
Iraq real soon. He's a guitar slinger from Ankeny more details when
he gets home.
I was surfing my space a while back and came across
Big D's site. So I had to shoot him a email and ask about all
those guitars he has pictured. Because lets face it people who read
this column have inquisitive minds and we need to know. 8 U.S.A. Charvels
and Jacksons for starters - Darvish also has a Randy Rhoades limited
addition made in 92...Big D could open his own pawn shop or add a couple
custom shop Fenders and retire. Only a player with his skills and attitude
could pull off being in 2 of the best bands around at the same time
Treblehook
and Cold Filtered.
And speaking of Cold
Filtered. I had a chance to hear their singer Brian Burgett
at the rock star additions.. Do a kick ass version of Welcome to
the Jungle. Its no wonder the Night
Train tribute band for Guns and Roses is meeting with Rave reviews.
Brutal Republic
…one of the most intriguing new arrivals on the local scene…the
3 piece from Fort Dodge is fronted by brutal young guitar slinger/lead
vocalist named Jeremy Ober.
I had a chance to hear a band out of Ottumwa called
Average Joe. Let me assure You there is nothing Average about
this band: great vocals, great musicianship, great sound and lights
and great originals. They have a new self-titled cd out and it rocks!
I'll go into more detail next month, I'm starting to get a good back
log of Iowa bands who have sent me music..and I am really excited about
it. But I want to wait until a month there is plenty of room to cut
loose. So if you have anything loan or give it to me (Mailing address
below).
G
Bull Revolution is a group that is trying to support Christian
rock.. They are trying to put some shows together and promote them.
(Myspace.com/gbullrevolution2005).
www.Soridband
.com ..check the band Sorid out.
They have a very cool website I meant Brooke
Hoover back when I wrote a column for Muse News. He was one
artist I would always look forward to hearing his new material from
(going to get to his cd next month).In the mean time his website is
www.brookhoover.com
Through all these years Brook has always managed
to do it on his own terms and keep very busy in the process. I want
to thank Dark
Mirror for sending me a copy of their 4 song EP. This is another
band that you should rush to your computer and log onto their website
www.darkmirroronline.com DM is going to be a force to be reckoned with.
I can't wait to make it to one of their live shows.
And speaking of live shows More
Then This are finally going to bring their brand of cover band
mayhem to Des Moines. The question has now been answered. July 15th
at the Hull Ave Tavern. It will be a treat to see and hear them!
I wanted to get a quick plug in for the My Flies hailing from Iowa City.
They used to go by the name of the Letterpress Opry: we will cover them
more as we go..
One of 10,000 bass players in the world, Randy
Rants Archives
... Send info to.:
Randy VanHosen
3102 State Ave.
DesMoines,Iowa 50317
or Email me
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