pennsylvania musician magazine march 2015

March, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 3

6 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE March, 2015


OUT & ABOUTby RACHEL ROCKS!

Every month is crazy busy and tons of fun with all of the

bands I get to see and hear, but February is by far the craziest!

Not only do I get to go “Out and About” like I usually have the

pleasure of doing, but also the Millennium Music Conference

comes to town and that is when the craziness really starts. Over

250 Acts and Artists emerge on the Harrisburg area to

showcase their talent at 28 different Showcase Venues. It’s not

humanly possible for me to be everywhere I possibly want to

be, and the snow storm that hit the Saturday night of the MMC

really put a damper on things, but I still saw plenty of bands. I

will not only be writing this “Out and About” column, about

the bands I went “Out” to see, but I will also be writing a

“Trade Show Review” article just about the acts I saw perform

on our Open Mic stage throughout the 2 Days of the

conference. This year we had 56 acts perform for us, THAT is a

lot of writing! But I will get it done, make sure and check that

article out too! This is the one time of the year where bands

have the opportunity to come to ME, and guarantee themselves

coverage in the magazine. There is always so much stuff going

on every night, and it’s impossible to see everyone, so it’s nice

that they can come to me! Again, read all about that in my other

article. Now for the bands I had to go see…

The first band of this fun-filled month is SOS. I saw them at

The Pour House on Derry St. I was thrilled to see they cleared

out some of the tables and rearranged other tables, to make a

much bigger dance floor. With SOS in the house, the extra

dance room is definitely needed. When I arrived it was packed

and everyone was having a blast. They were playing while the

Outdoor Show was in town so it was good they knew a couple

country songs because they were a big hit with parts of this

crowd. SOS is so versatile in all of the different types of music

they can cover from Rock to Alternative, to Country, they cover

it all! They are great at judging a room and playing the music

that keeps that night’s crowd up and dancing, and of course

drinking! Check out SOS’s ad in this issue and get out there

and support them, or get them booked at your venue, you won’t

be disappointed!

The next night out I stopped in at Big Woody’s and 2nd

Chance Band was on the stage. I saw 2nd Chance Band once

before, but this time they had a new bass player and a new

guitar player, making their grand total up to 6 members. Big

Woody’s doesn’t really have too much space for a band, but

they managed to all squeeze in and party the night away. While

I was there I saw three different band members singing lead on

completely different songs, so obviously this band is pretty

versatile too. They even ended their night with some amazing

continued on next page...

DEADLINE for April 2015 issue...FRIDAY, MARCH 20th Don’t delay, calltoday to reserve your space... 717.444.2423


continued on page 12...

sing-a-long Journey! 2nd Chance Band had Big Woody’s

packed til even after the last song. It was a great night of music,

and I’m glad I got to see them again. This month they are new

advertisers, please check out their ad, go see them, or book

them at your venue, and let them know that you saw them in

the PA Musician Magazine!

The next day/night was a very busy one. It all started around

9am at home in Harrisburg, then I went and delivered

magazines in Harrisburg, Reading, and Lancaster, which is

roughly 8 hours of driving. Then I saw in the magazine that the

Bob & Dick Show was playing at TNT Pizza in York, I used

my handy dandy smart phone and found out that was only 18

minutes from Drums Etc. so I thought why not? It was fun

surprising Bob with the magazines since him and Jen were on

the cover with Denmother Music. Even though Bob wanted to

be able to check out the magazine, he had to keep playing. I

was very proud of his determination. Bob & Dick have been

playing music for years and have a very long list of music they

can cover. TNT Pizza is another venue that is just starting to

have bands there. I hope people get out there and support it.

One of the big plusses of TNT Pizza is that it is all age and

very family friendly. The Bob and Dick Show had plenty of

friends there with their whole families. It’s also BYOB until

they get their liquor license. At this show there was actually a

boy doing a full headstand during the show! I definitely don’t

see that everyday. Please get out there and support this new

venue. We need as many venues as we can possibly get.

After their early show, I zoomed up 83 to the Silver Lake

Inn for Take 147’s show. Talk about packed! That place was

ridiculous!! When I got there, they had a guy directing traffic

for parking at the gas station across the street. If I thought the

parking was bad, the crowd inside was even crazier. It was

easier just to walk out the front door and go back in the back

door if you wanted to move anywhere else it was so packed

with people. The Dirty Place was opening for them when I

arrived. This group of guys are local to the Lewisberry area and

had the place rockin’. When Take 147 took the stage it got

even crazier. It’s one of those venues that everyone is jumping

and dancing along and you can literally feel the floor moving

below your feet! The Silver Lake said they are working on

opening a band room upstairs, I think I’m glad we were on the

main level just in case something gave way! Some people love

that situation where you are smooshed in like sardines, but

personally I like seeing them where you can move, dance, and

not feel like you are touching noses with Gretta while she’s

singing! It’s always crazy to see all of the “Takers” out there in

full force supporting this band. Check out their ad in this issue

and see where you can go rock the night away with Take 147!

March 14th they will be dominating the stage at Tubby’s in

Duncannon. Always a great show with Take 147.

Believe it or not, the night still wasn’t over, I finished off the

night zooming over to Double K for Smokin’ Gunnz’s last set.

Have you checked out Smokin Gunnz’s self-titled CD yet?

They’ve been playing some of their originals at their shows for

so long I honestly thought they were covers from some other

band, especially the song that always gets their crowd dancing,

“Raise a Little Hell”, and their song that they dedicate at every

show to the men and women in the military, “Lost Heroes”.

Both songs are awesome! I’m so glad to finally have them on a

CD. I’m glad I took my last bit of energy for the day to go hear

these guys. They are just one of those bands that makes you let

loose, and forget all of your troubles, and just have a good

night listening to good music! If you want to see what their

deep fried southern rock is all about, check out their ad in this

issue and plan your next night out on the town!

Next up I headed back to Double K for Single Barrel. I

guess I just didn’t get enough of Bob and Chris at the Smokin’

Gunnz show. Don’t let yourself be fooled though, Smokin’

Gunnz and Single Barrel are not the same! Single Barrel

plays more of the Outlaw Country and Rock N’ Roll, even

though they do still put their strings into some more of the

modern Southern Rock too. I owe Single Barrel’s guitar player

CLINT a huge apology, I accidently called him “Ginger” in

my last article, which turns out, is his wife’s name instead! I

felt awful, because once the magazine is printed there is no

going back, so again I apologize. I’m glad that Chris has since

changed their “About” section on their Facebook page, and

they now have the band member’s names posted and easily

accessible. I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve

gotten told I’ve written wrong information, but for the most

part it is exactly what I found on the band’s website, facebook,

Out & About continued...


etc. It’s so important to keep your info current, you never know

who is going to be looking up your band’s info at any given

time. Single Barrel had a great crowd at Double K enjoying

the Outlaw Country and calling out re-plays of songs because

they were that good! Their songs catch you by surprise because

they are not ones you typically here on the radio, so if it’s your

first show, chances are it might be the first time you’ve heard

the song. If it’s a song about sex, drugs, or rock n’ roll, chances

are they’ll play it! Check out Single Barrel’s ad in this issue

and get them booked at your venue, you won’t be disappointed!

Finally it’s time to cover the Millennium Music Conference

19. It was officially my 8th MMC, so far I’ve loved every one.

Last year when my car got totaled I still made the best of it. At

any conference you go to, it’s up to you to network, go to the

panels, support other musicians showcases, mingle, make

introductions, and then follow thru when it’s all over! At the

MMC I always stress one of the most important parts of this

conference is the Bag Stuffing itself. You make great

connections with great people in a small, intimate setting. This

year I bet we had 30 or 40 people stuffing bags so it only took

us about an hour to stuff 500 bags. Before the bag stuffing I

troll the lobby area looking for bored people I found Chris

from Pages & Poets. Check out Pages & Poets on

Reverbnation, they have a great story and are on the fast track

to success. Two more guys I found were the Gage Brothers.

Even though they were the first band at the Opening Party at

O’Reilly’s they still took the time to come in and stuff some

bags. All weekend I saw all three of those guys everywhere,

mingling at the trade show, eating dinner in O’Reilly’s and

jamming every chance they got!

The official kick-off to the MMC was the Opening Party in

O’Reilly’s on Thursday night. The Gage Brothers kicked it

off with their acoustic set and it was already a great start to the

conference. I’m always so impressed with every band that

plays at the MMC. I don’t know how they possibly go through

all the bands and pick all the good ones, but they do. The Gage

Brothers came in from Akron, Ohio to share their talents with

us. Zach played guitar and sang, while Ben took care of the

percussion on a cajon, while playing the harmonica, and

singing along. Their harmonies were of course spot on and

unbelievable! They put their own twist on Folk music, and I

liked it!

JT & the Mild Heat, a local favorite took the stage next.

Even though they are local it seems the only place I ever get a

chance to catch these guys is at the MMC. They have their

own special sound depending on what song they are playing, I

guess you could call it blues punk rock, if you had to call it

something, but you can tell watchting these guys they’ve been

playing together a long time and they simply like to jam! It’s

always a blast watching them and this night was no different.

The last band of the night was Fuzzy Lifting Drink, also

known as Observe the 93rd acoustic. OT93 has undergone

some band member changes so as part of their transition time

they’ve created this band so they can keep playing while

adjusting to their new sound and style. Derek now holds his

own on vocals and does an amazing job.

The next day was the first full day of the conference. During

the trade show from 11-5 we had 31 different acts stop by and

play our Open Mic stage. We were extremely blessed this year

and our good friend, Dave Russell with Antique Digital

Pianos provided us with all of our sound and an amazing stage.

We had “controlled” electric which was awesome! There were

times throughout the day we had full 6 piece bands playing!

Check out all of that coverage in my other special article this

month, “MMC Trade Show Review”.

Friday night of the conference started out again in O’Reilly’s

for dinner. They were smart and had the bands start early.

Lindsey Erin was the first band at 6:30. Lindsey is another

semi-local musician. She spends half of her time here and half

of her time in Nashville writing and recording music. I’ve

heard a lot about Lindsey and I’m glad I finally got a chance to

see her perform. She has some great originals with a lot of

heartfelt lyrics. She’s toured all over the east coast and beyond.

She’s currently been playing in schools to fight against

bullying, so she’s pretty awesome in my book. I’m sure our

paths will cross more in the future.

Next up was a solo act, Emma Lane. Emma came down

from Rochester, NY. She’s also a country, rock singer with a

little bit of blues. O’Reilly’s was absolutely packed but even as

a solo act she was still able to hold the crowds attention. Her

new single “Little Bit of Somethin’” is on iTunes now. Check it

out and get a taste of some of the great music from the MMC.

Finally it was time to hit the road and see how many

Showcases we could cover in just one night! Lucky for me I

had my trust sidekick, and personal secretary, Kristin Bates

with me to help keep everything straight and keep me on time.

This year I also had another sidekick, Christine Kearns (CK),

along for the ride. CK was also the one checking everyone in at

the Registration desk at the MMC, so she had the inside scoop

on the artists.

Our first stop was at Carley’s Piano Bar. When we arrived

Elizabeth Findley, also known as The Syncopated Keys was

on the piano. Carley’s takes advantage of every bit of space.

It’s amazing how the big, grand piano is squeezed into the

middle of the venue. Elizabeth wasn’t too far from home, she

came down from State College, I’m hoping she makes her way

down here more often so I can see her play again. Two of her

songs that stuck out to me were “Broken” and “Little Liar,”

which is based off the movie Pretty Little Liars.

Next was Christina Custode from Niagara Falls. Christina

did a great job making her presence known, first by advertising

in the PA Musician Magazine, and she was handing out flyers

at the Opening Party and throughout the day at the conference,

and you could tell her hard work paid off by the amount of

people at her Showcase. She even had some of the video guys

show up to record parts of her set. Christina has an astounding

amount of original music, she is constantly writing new songs.

Her song “Fire” is on the MMC Compilation CD. Christina

had a great rapport with the audience talking in between songs

about the inspiration for some of her songs, and of course

promoting her CDs. Her songs just kept flowing flawlessly

throughout her set. I’m glad I made it out to her show.

Unfortunately I had to move on. I would’ve loved to stay and

see Susan Ruth and Matt Vrba, but you can read more about

all of these people in my Trade Show Review article.

Our next stop was at HMAC, also known as Stage on Herr.

They were running a little behind so we were fortunate and got

to first catch Epoch Failure. I met these guys the night before

and glad I got to see their set. Epoch Failure’s hip-hop/pop

urban music is clean and catchy. A CD that I’m sure will

quickly become a family favorite. I know one thing for sure I

love working out to their CD. For the most part it is inspiring

and uplifting music, especially “Champion”. That song also

has a great video on Reverbnation worth checking out. I also

saw on one of their videos and I was shocked that Nicholas,

their one front-man is a Staff Sgt. in the Air National Guard.

In his video he talks about how even though you are in the

Out & About continued....

continued on pg 14...


Greetings Rockers ‘N’ Rollers! The past month included the return of twogreat National acts. Billy Idol brought his latest tour “Kings & Queens Of The Underground”tothe Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ. A trip down memory lane as the rock icon andlongtime bandmate, Steve Stevens played their hits “Rebel Yell,” “WhiteWedding,” and “Dancing With Myself.” Idol also covered his early Generation X punk bandwith songs “Ready Steady Go” and “King Rocker.” Billy Idol is back to selling out shows witha huge comeback and critic acclaimed new record released last October. A fantastic band fromOklahoma called BRONCHO opened the show. Their first single “Class Historian” is gaining

fast recognition. Fans of Velvet Underground and TheReplacements should check out their show March 3 atBaltimore’s Ottobar. Marilyn Manson brought his latest venture “TheHell Not Hallelujah Tour” to a near sell-out SandsEvent Center in Bethlehem. The shock rocker issupport ing his la tes t effort “The PaleEmperor” w h i c h r e l e a s e d J a n u a r y20th. Manson included song staples like “SweetDreams (Are Made Of This),” “PersonalJesus,” and “The Beautiful People,” joined by youngBrooklyn metal rockers Unlocking The Truth. The Replacements are back. The band is callingtheir summer tour “Back By UnpopularDemand,” and it’s the “first full U.S. tour” sincecalling it quits in 1991. Last year, TheReplacements returned to its Minnesota roots andheadlined Minneapolis’ Midway Stadium, selling all14,000 tickets in less than 15 minutes. Today’s

Replacements consist of members guitarist/singer/songwriter Paul Westerberg andbassist Tommy Stinson along with drummer Josh Freese and guitarist David Minehan. TheReplacements play Philadelphia’s Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing on May 9th. Sam Smith was king of the 57th Grammy Awards on February 8th, taking home three of thetop four awards, including song and record of the year for “Stay With Me,” and best new artist,while Beck won album of the year. There were 23 live performances, and AC/DC began theawards with a performance of their latest single, “Rock or Bust,” and then transitioned into theclassic “Highway to Hell.” Kanye West drew attention when he almost walked on stage (again)during Beck’s award acceptance. Kanye, unsatisfied with the result, spoke to the press“Beck needs to respect artistry and he should have given his awardto Beyoncé.” Beck’s response included, “You can’t please everybody, man. I stilllove Kanye and think he’s genius. I aspire to do what he does.” Kanye recanted his remarkssaying “Beck is one of the nicest guys and one of the most respected musicians in the game, thatwas a miswording on my part.” Notable artists at the Grammys included: Beyoncé, TaylorSwift, Prince, Rihanna, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, Madonna and Lady Gaga. Mötley Crüe announced its 2015 plans, saying the “Final Tour” will wrap in Los Angeles onNew Year’s Eve. A year ago Nikki Sixx, TommyLee, Mick Mars and Vince Neil signed a“cessation of touring” agreement prohibiting anyof the members carrying on under the MötleyCrüe moniker. Mötley Crüe manager ChrisNilsson said the decision to quit touring was a“group decision.” Rock legend AliceCooper, who appeared as the tour’s very specialguest in 2014, will continue in that role for manyof the North American dates. Mötley Crüe visitsHershey’s Giant Center on August 11th. Faith No More have reunited again touring forthe second time in 16 years. The alternative rockband is also releasing its first LP since1997’s “Album of the Year.” Their NorthAmerican tour concludes with a sold-out show atPhiladelphia’s Electric Factory on May 15th. Dates have been released for The TingTings as Katie White and Jules DeMartino extend their North American tour in support oftheir latest album, “Super Critical.” Released in October, the new album co-producedby Duran Duran’s Andy Taylor, includes the hit “Wrong Club.” The Ting Tings playPhiladelphia’s Union Transfer on April 10th and Washington DC’s 9:30 Club on April 11th. After rockin the Grammys, AC/DC revealed a North American tour, a 13-city stadium blitzbeginning on the East Coast in late August. Angus Young & Co. will rock MetLife Stadium inEast Rutherford, NJ on August 26th. Chris Slade, who played drums in AC/DC from 1989 to1994, will resume his duties while Phil Rudd addresses his legal problems in New Zealandwhere prosecutors claim he threatened a man who had worked for him. Lady Gaga is engaged to Lancaster native/actor Taylor Kinney. The pop star posted a photoof a ring on her Instagram account and wrote: “He gaveme his heart on Valentine’s Day, and I said YES!” LadyGaga and Kinney met on the set of her “You &I” v i d e o i n 2 0 1 1. Kinney s t a r s inthe NBC series “Chicago Fire.” Lady Gaga recentlywon her sixth Grammy Award, for her “Cheek toCheek” album with Tony Bennett. Kinney bought alog cabin-style home on 5.7 acres outside of Lancasterwhere the couple are regular visitors to Bulls Head Bar,Giant grocery store and a local Methodist Church. UPCOMING SHOWS: The Growlers / BRONCHOBaltimore Ottobar Mar 3. The Give Take / The91s Harrisburg Abbey Bar Mar 14. Johnny Cashtribute Lancaster American Music Theatre Mar22. The Virus York Skid Row Garage Mar 26. TheLuv Gods / American Posse Mechanicsburg WhiskeyRidge Mar 28. KIX Selinsgrove Hummels Wharf FireCompany Mar 28.

Billy Idol, Eric, & Steve Stevens

Russ Brooks & Michael Guerrini

of Dirt Cheap with Eric

Eric & Steve Whiteman at thelast Funny Money show

NATIONALS by Eric Hoffman


service you can still live your dreams. Pretty awesome guys,

I’m glad I got the chance to see and hear them perform.

The next band we also caught a few songs to before we had to

leave and that was Northwest Division who came down all the

way from Vancouver to play their showcase. They had a bout of

bad luck and had all of their equipment stolen from them so

they were using bare bones and a little help from Epoch

Failure to be able to play their set. I hope things got better for

these guys and hopefully they have good insurance for the

equipment they lost. It was quite ironic that the songs we heard

were “Border Patrol” and “Stay Sharp.” I’m hoping it was

maybe just a sick joke that their gear was stolen, but I doubt it.

We took a quick walk down the extremely cold street to

Midtown Tavern to see Michi. When we arrived Myron

James was playing their last song. I loved the tease and am

glad I got another chance to catch these guys Saturday night.

Michi has become quite the MMC Regular. She’s attended the

last three years and I’m glad I was able to see her once again

playing with her full band. She currently lives in New York

City, but she comes back and plays in PA quite frequently.

Michi started writing her own music when she was just 9 years

old. She currently has 4 CDs under her belt and has performed

with many great musicians. Michi is one of those singers that

has a very distinctive voice that truly does just suck you in. I

can’t wait to see what she does in the upcoming year!

Next we headed back up the street to HMAC for D-Bo’s

Showcase. D-Bo is an amazing R&B singer from right here in

Harrisburg. It’s crazy that it takes something like the MMC for

me to see artists that I have right in my back yard, but I’m glad

I did. D-Bo has had tons of success throughout his years as a

musician. In February he won an Akademia Award for Best

Album. He was also the top Five in the WORLD on

Reverbnation. Not only does D-Bo have the most important

instrument his amazing voice, but he’s also backed up by great

musicians as well. Plus if you’re not entertained enough by his

voice, just stick around and watch his fancy dance moves! We

were highly entertained at D-Bo’s showcase, hopefully I’ll be

seeing more of them again soon. After all of that ramming

around we were all exhausted and decided to call it a night so

we could prepare for Day #2 of the Conference.

The 2nd day of the Trade Show and before it even started

around 10am, the snow started to fall. I quickly ran my kiddos

to Carlisle to stay with my sister and prepared to be snowed in

at the Best Western. I am not one to travel in snow! Even

though it snowed ALL DAY we had a decent turn out at the

Trade Show and conference. We had another crazy day with 25

different performers on our Open Mic Stage.

With the snow I decided to stay at the home base of the Best

Western and O’Reilly’s. The restaurant was so packed that we

first stayed up in our room and ordered room service. Most of

us had Pot Roast and it was DIVINE! What a brilliant idea, we

also went and took a quick dip in the pool. After our belly’s

were full and we were nice and refreshed we headed down to

the bar for Ian Mellencamp. Yes, it’s true he is John “Cougar”

Mellencamp’s nephew, but let me tell ya, he is nothing like him.

He plays more of his type of punk rock, eclectic music. He was

eye candy for sure, but just not the music I was expecting.

While I was there I was also introduced to Hunter Lyons. I

unfortunately missed his set, but we decided to go out in the

hall where he could play me a song and I could take a couple

pictures. Hunter is actually Clint from Single Barrel’s son, so

I figured I owed the family a special favor. Hunter also gave

me a copy of his debut full length CD, “Chasing Red.” It’s

hard to believe he’s only 18 with how powerful the lyrics to his

songs are. Do yourself a favor and check out Hunter Lyons for

yourself!

I made it back into O’Reilly’s for J & the 9’s special attack

on the pub! J & the 9’s were supposed to play at Double K, but

unfortunately because of the snow their venue closed, so Ian

Mellencamp shared some of his set time so they could at least

play a quick 2 songs. It was perfect because the staff at

O’Reilly’s was in shock from what they were seeing, the band

was climbing on top of tables and railings going absolutely

crazy til they eventually collapsed on the floor. They knew they

only had 2 songs and they put it all out there. I saw J & the 9’s

before but they definitely took shock and awe to a whole new

level in a good way.

The last band of the night was Myron James. This band with

their calmer pop/punk rock music was a nice relief to the

crowded bars ears. Myron is obviously a natural on the stage

instantly sucking you in with his stage presence alone. Myron

Out & About continued....



just signed a 2 year development and recording agreement with

Bridge Road Entertainment. Over the next two years,

Myron will record two full-lenth albums and complete videos

for several songs while dividing his time between New York,

Nashville, and the West Coast. Keep an eye out for this guy!

You would think the night would be over, but not quite…

Linda Russell and I were walking in the lobby and came

across Susan Ruth, Matt Vrba, and Skyler playing their

acoustic guitars quietly in the corner. We decided to sit and

enjoy the music, they were quietly each taking turns playing

and singing their original music. It was beautiful. Before too

long security came over and said they couldn’t play their

music in the lobby. We then asked security where we could

play? I said if you don’t let us play somewhere there is going

to be parties happening in the rooms. We were all snowed in

and bored, it was going to get crazy! Before we knew it the

staff at the Best Western opened up a Conference Room and

let us in there to jam. It started off small, but by the end I

would say there were easily at least 150 people with their

instruments in the conference room all jamming out and

having sing-a-longs all at the same time. There was everything

from Dave’s antique digital piano, clarinets, stand-up bass,

banjos, melodica, harmonicas, violin, saxophone, flute,

shakers, tons of guitars, and obviously singers! It was the

craziest time ever and an awesome way to end the Music

Conference. It’s a shame it had to snow and so many people

had their showcases canceled, but... again a conference is what

you make it. If you joined in the fun and mingled and met the

right people then you knew this party was taking place and you

joined in the fun. I’ll tell ya who was there for sure... Chris

from Pages & Poets, and the Gage Brothers.. (remember

those guys from the bag stuffing?) plus a whole lot more!

What a crazy good time for sure!!!! If you want to check it out

for yourself I have videos posted on my Facebook page.

facebook.com/Rachel Rocks. People think I’m crazy for

staying at the hotel when I only live 2 miles away, but it’s so

worth it. The MMC only comes once a year and I want to be

there for every minute!

Congrats to John Harris and the rest of this gang of the

John Harris Group for once again putting on a great

conference. The talent always blows me away. It’s also well

organized. I heard all the panels were also well attended, even

with “Snowmageddon!” I can’t wait to see what the 20th year

brings, hopefully partying with all of you!

Well, this article is a long one! Congrats to any of you that

made it to the end!!! You’ve now fulfilled your reading for the

year! Lol. Next month Jim Price, aka The Professor, will be

writing about his MMC adventures. Our deadline and the

MMC are just a little too close together to get it all done in

time! So make sure you check out where JP adventured to for

the MMC in our April Issue. If you have any questions or

comments please send them to [email protected].

Have a great month and SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!!!!

SusquehannaValley NEWS

By Jeff Kreitz Jr.

Hello music lovers....it’s March Madness and I’m not talking

about college basketball I’m talking about all of the live music

due to hit our area this month, check out all this news!

The lengendary KIX returns to our area for a big rock show

at the Hummel’s Wharf Fire Company in Shamokin Dam on

March 28th. Other bands on the bill are AC/DC tribute band

Halfway to Hell and Suckerpunch. Speaking of

Suckerpunch, Billy Rock and the boys have some gigs of their

own this month at the New Berlin American Legion on the

7th and at Taylors Bar in Unityville on the 21st.

As reported last month, Williamsport area band All Else Fails

are back in a big way with a very full schedule check them out

this month at the Arena in State College on the 7th, the Cell

Block in Williamsport on the 14th, Hulls Landing in Muncy

on the 20th and the Saloon in Lock Haven on the 21st. Jeff

Pittinger & The Betty Ford All Stars invade The Mill

Tavern in Montoursville for a huge show on the 21st. Other

bands on the bill are Dirty Mojo, Ascension and Noise

Pollution. Doors open early at 7:30 and the show begins at

8:30. Unncutt who play a great mix of 80’s and 90’s are at the

Avis American Legion on the 14th and they return to the

Riverside Campground in Montgomery on the 28th. Classic

Rockers Mason Dixon head up to Harper’s Creekside Inn in

Waterville on the 14th.

The Uptown Music Collective presents “Blue in Green” a

tribute to modern jazz at the Community Theatre Leauge in

Williamsport, the show runs from the 19th to the 21st. In other

Williamsport news, the Flu Shots are busy this month with

shows at the South Williamsport American Legion on the 7th,

South Avis Inn on the 14th, The Capitol Lounge inside the

Community Arts Center on the 18th and at the Post 1

American Legion on the 21st.

Audio Box returns this month catch them at the Riverside

Campground in Montgomery on the 7th and at the Ye Old

Meeting Place in Milton on the 28th. Speaking of Milton, LT’s

Bar has another full month of live music this month, check out

Governing Murphy on the 7th, Ascention on the 14th, Greg

Snyder on the 21st and Royal We on the 28th.

Bloomsburg area band Wonderchunk hit the Milton area as

Out & About continued...



Every cover story is an adventure and Voodoo’s is no different. I was given the

address to their practice space below Dillsburg. I’m driving and the road starts getting

more and more desolate as I go, then I come to a cross roads and the GPS says, “You

have arrived”… I was about ready to start calling the guys, but instead I decided to

just roll down my window and listen, sure enough I found the hard rockin’ guys of

Voodoo without a problem. They were practicing in Joel’s nice, big body shop, which

really amplified their already rockin’ sound.

Voodoo has been around technically since 2000 but has since unraveled and re-

raveled a few times to get to their current line up. The only original member is Jay

Acri. It took patience and persistence, but Jay recruited everyone one piece at a time.

The first recruit was Lonnie Eckert on drums. Lonnie was a long time friend of Jay’s

and Jay desperately needed a drummer so he called Lonnie to fill in. Lonnie only had

three hours of practice of the

Voodoo music before he played

his first show, but he’s been

playing with them ever since.

Joel Turnbaugh was the next

piece to the puzzle. I found out

that Jay, Lonnie, and Joel used

to be in a band together years ago

called Nissel Lane, so when they

were looking for a vocalist they

thought why not try and find Joel

and see if he’s ready to rock the

stage again. After 12 years of not

living the band life it didn’t take

too much convincing for Joel to

pick up the mic again. Joel said

he only came back because of the

camaraderie the three of them

had together in their previous

band. They are family and family

sticks together.

They lucked upon Steve

Junkins one night when he was

filling in for LeadFoot. They saw

Steve playing with all of his

energy and amazing guitar licks

and they knew they needed him

to complete their newest Voodoo

line-up. Steve brought some new,

much needed life back to the

band. He’s a very hard worker

and doesn’t let the guys slack off.

For years Voodoo was known

as being a Godsmack Tribute

Band. They know that tribute

bands only have so much shelf-

life, so now they are adding in

more songs and more experiences. They can still cover pretty much any Godsmack

song their fans want to hear, but they will also be moving forward to even bigger and

better repetoire of songs.

When you see Voodoo’s promotion and advertisements you usually see skulls, fire,

and stuff that gives you an angry/evil feel, but these guys are quite the opposite. They

do play hard rock music and they have plenty of aggression on the stage, but they also

know how to have fun. One thing I can guarantee you will feel from these guys is

energy! Their stage presence is unlike any other band in the area.

Joel, their lead singer, was described by his bandmates as everything from eclectic

to spastic, but I believe the best word is animated. I have so much fun taking pictures

of Joel singing. He is all over the stage moving, jumping, kneeling, I mean

EVERYWHERE! But one thing for sure is he can sing! I don’t know how he can

possibly hit some of the notes he does. Joel is excited about all of the new music they

are adding to the set list, and can’t wait to see what his voice can do.

Jay Acri, on bass, was described as a best friend and a recluse, but I think Steve said

it best when he said misunderstood. Jay can be laying down some of the sickest bass

lines, but with the biggest smile ever! When you really watch this band you quickly

see how a lot of their energy stems from Jay. Jay is not afraid to get right at the edge

of the stage and include the crowd with the show. He definitely gets the whole room

on their feet and dancing or singing along!

Lonnie, Voodoo’s insane drummer, was described with a lot of calm sounding

words: under-rated, solid, and honest. I’m sure he is all of those things off the stage

and he’s a great friend and brother to his band mates because that’s the kind of guy he

is, but I can tell you on stage, he’s insane! He’s an amazing drummer that keeps

everyone going. I love how at every show he’s on his mic with his backing vocals, but

is also very in-tune with the crowd making sure there is constant chatter about what’s

happening on the stage with the band, but also with the crowd. Lonnie also never

misses a Kodak moment. He’s always making eye contact with any photographer in

the room making sure to help us get the perfect shot all while not missing a beat!

Steve, on guitar, is known to be dedicated, meticulous, and talented. One thing for

sure is he is definitely talented! Steve keeps up with everyone else in the band and is

just crazy on stage. I’ve seen plenty of people bowing down to Steve while he’s

throwing down yet another amazing guitar solo. His hard work and dedication to his

craft definitely doesn’t go

unappreciated by their fans.

Steve has also done amazing

work with the behind the scenes

band stuff: booking and

promoting. It might by the most

unglamorous part of being in a

band, but if there isn’t one

person willing to step up and

take on those roles, the band isn’t

going to go anywhere, and trust

me Voodoo is everywhere!

All in all these guys are

definitely a close knit family on

and off the stage. This is not

about the money at all for these

guys. They are truly out here just

making sure everyone is having

a good time, and giving people

an outlet to just let loose and

have some fun! These guys bring

a whole new level to the phrase,

“One for All, and All for One!”

They are more than just music,

this is a brotherhood, a family of

like minded musicians. They all

have hard, physically demanding

day jobs, but they are still out

there rockin’ people’s faces off!

They just hope that by seeing

them out there playing they can

inspire more people to pick up an

instrument and keep music alive

in their lives.

When I asked them who they

wanted to thank, I can’t believe

the list these guys came up with.

I unfortunately only have so much room in the magazine for this article, but just know

that if you’ve ever played with, helped, or have been to a Voodoo show, your

dedication to this band has not gone un-noticed. I’ve done a lot of interviews in 8

years, but these guys by far had the longest list of people they wanted to personally

thank. Some that we have to mention that do the most for the band are their Wives,

families, and girlfriends: Steve’s family: Angel, Hayden, and Treysen. Jay’s Mom,

Chase, and girlfriend Tracy, and anyone else who has to deal with him. Lonnie’s

wife, Michelina, and his kiddos, 2 girls, and 3 boys! And Joel wants to thank his

family as well. They also want to throw out a very special thank you to Christine

Charron of CCphotographie their photographer that is at almost every show. She’s

the one who also shot their Cover picture, and the pictures they used for this article as

well. Last, but not least a shout out to Shout at the Devil. When bands share

bandmates it sometimes make scheduling shows and practices difficult, but these two

bands work together great to make it all happen! Again they want to make sure that

everyone knows they appreciate everyone for everything!

Believe it or not, look for an even more aggressive Voodoo this Spring! They will be

spreading out musically and regionally, and one thing for sure is they are ready to rock

at a venue near you. Make sure and “Like” Voodoo on Facebook to keep up with all

of their events and changes. You can also simply check out their ad in this issue to plan

your next night out on the town. To get them booked at your venue, give Steve a call

at 717-884-5381.

By: Rachel Rocks Photos by Christine Charron of CCphotographie

VOODOO… “ONE FOR ALL AND ALL FOR ONE!”


well this month for a few shows, catch them at Speedy’s on the

14th and at Ye Old Meeting Place on the 21st.

Red Halo are back by popular demand for a return gig in our

area this month at Hulls Landing in Muncy on the 6th.Country

music returns to the Cell Block in Williamsport this month

with The RockyAllen Band on the 28th.

As I look ahead to next month here is a save the date event

not to be missed, Into The Spin featuring drummer Jeremy

Hummel (formerly of Breaking Benjamin) return to the Front

Street Station in Northumberland on April 10th! Thats it for

this month, if you have any info or news you would like to

share hit me up on Facebook or email me at

[email protected]. Support live music and the PA

Musician Magazine!

SANE ADVICE By John Kerecz

Sometimes, despite all the potential sources of inspiration

around, artist’s block sets in for all of us. Your creative stream

runs dry and you just can’t seem to think of anything new.

Typically, this is an opportune time to catch up on other

things you’ve been meaning to do. Update your websites, tidy

the house or studio, or sort out your gear. You might even enjoy

watching some movies or binge-watching a new TV series on

Netflix or Hulu. But once you’re all “caught up,” then what?

I think the ultimate cure for artist’s block is a trip! It doesn’t

have to be to another country (but that would be nice!) The

good, old USA has plenty of great places to see that can be

inspirational for many different reasons to any of us. Travel

websites have made it so easy to catch a cheap flight and book

a cheap hotel room! Then again, your trip doesn’t even have to

be as far or as extravagant as that to be helpful. Maybe just

pull out the map (yes, they still make those) and head to a small

town you haven’t been to before. Talk to some folks in the

coffee shop, check out the architecture of the buildings, spend

an hour in the park before heading back home. You could even

just take a tent out to the woods for the weekend. Take a pen

and paper, and while you’re there write down your thoughts,

feelings, and anything else that comes to mind. The idea is to

get yourself into a new and different environment so that you’ll

have new and different ideas. Hopefully, when you get back to

your studio, or wherever you normally like to write, you’ll have

loosened your gears and gotten the juices flowing again!

THEPROFESSOR’S“LIVE REVIEWS”

By Jim Price Last month’s groundhog prophecy sentenced us not just to

six more weeks of winter, but the most brutal winter weather of

the season so far! But live music still persevered through snow,

ice and frigid cold.

Folks who regularly make music in Pennsylvania during the

winter months understand that the show must go on, regardless

of what Old Man Winter throws at them on a given night. But

sometimes Old Man Winter throws the insurmountable, such as

a mid-February severe snow squall followed by immediate high

winds and plummeting temperatures that caused icy roads,

whiteout conditions and a number of cancelled gigs. But one

show that did go on during this tough night - at least for two

sets - was Emberstitch’s appearance just a few blocks from my

house at Altoona’s Family Pizza & Pub. At least a few brave

souls weathered the elements to witness and enjoy as singer

Tyler Hull, guitarist/singer Keith Little, keyboardist Nathan

Smouse, bassist Russ Patterson and drummer Ed Murvine

mixed up a fun variety of classic and current hits. The group

juxtaposed differing flavors into interesting combinations; at

one point jumping from Tommy Tutone’s “867-5309/Jenny” to

Brantley Gilbert’s “Bottoms Up” to Lady Gaga’s “Edge of

Glory.” Emberstitch also stitched together several entertaining

medleys, and stirred up dance floor activity with tunes from the

Hollies, ZZ Top, Chuck Berry, REO Speedwagon, Billy Idol,

Ramones, Romantics, Cheap Trick, Aerosmith/Run DMC,

Loverboy and more. Increasing concerns over worsening road

conditions brought the night to a close after two sets.

Emberstitch should encounter more favorable weather

conditions when they return to Family Pizza on May 9th.

From the ashes of 10 Million Devils has emerged Darkness

On The Radio, who made their official debut headlining a

metal triple-bill on a snowy late January night at McGarvey’s.

I arrived during the set by openers Hate Grenade, and heard

the group do several tunes from their forthcoming full-length

CD. The new material being generated by lead howler Jeff

Glace, guitarist Chuck Lavera, bassist Rich Johnson and

drummer Mike Powers is similarly heavy and aggressive, but

tends toward a more groove-geared direction. Black Sun then

stepped on stage and did their brand of dark, Sabbathy-flavored

original doom metal. Singer Todd McKeone, guitarist Jason

Feathers, bassist David Mollica and drummer Nate Woods

seemed to emphasize their newer song material, which sounded

more experimental with angular melodies and variable degrees

of intensity and distortion. Black Sun is planning to record

their original song material later this year. Next was the advent

of Darkness on the Radio, introducing their new spin on

heavy nu-metal. Featuring the former 10 Million Devils nucleus

of frontman/guitarist Jason Straw and bassist Greg Hatch,

Dave Collins, Jamie Shumac, Randy Karle & Rich

Piccerillo during Pellegrine’s Jam night by Jim Price


Susquehanna Valley continued...


former Inside Out guitarist Jay Snyder and Pivot drummer

Jason Kirchner, Darkness On The Radio picked up where 10

Million Devils left off; their songs showing elaborate hooks,

escalating arrangements and a wider variety of tempos.

Propelled by Greg’s throbbing bass lines, snarling guitars and

frontman Jason’s feralvocals, Darkness On The Radio

unleashed several powerful new original tunes, such as “Now

Run Like Hell,” “Weapon,” “Strip Search” and more. This

show bodes well for the immediate future of area heavy metal,

as Hate Grenade, Black Sun and Darkness On The Radio

each are honing their own distinctive styles and directions; I

eagerly look forward to hearing more from each.

McGarvey’s also hosted the triple-bill of Behind the Grey,

Let the River Swell and From the Depths in late January.

Scranton’s Behind the Grey had mostly completed their

opening set as I arrived, but I did get to hear their final song,

“Curtain Call.” Hopefully I’ll finally be able to catch a full set

by Behind the Grey when they return to McGarvey’s on May

18th. From Johnstown, Let the River Swell introduced a brand

of driving, aggressive modern metalcore. Vocalist Devin Kieta,

lead guitarist Tyler Litko, rhythm guitarist Mike Orletsky,

bassist Dan Crowell and drummer Jeff Hunyady pounded

forth originals chock full of battering ram rhythms, snarling

guitar chords and all-out vocal aggression on their selection of

original numbers, including several from their “Continents”

EP. Based in northern Cambria County, From the Depths then

finished the night with their slant on melody-driven,

alternative-flavored modern metal. Lead snarler Zach

Wolfhope, guitarist/singer Alex Ramsdell, guitarist Jairo

Cerritos, bassist Jarrid McConnell and drummer Dan

Shoemaker unleashed aggressive, scathing arrangements,

topped by the contrasting vocal styles of Zach’s feral howl and

Alex’s reserved crooning. From the Depths performed original

songs such as “Strife,” “It’s Not the End,” “Winning Isn’t

Everything” and more. From the Depths is currently recording

new songs toward their full-length CD, “Dead/Rest”, expected

out later this year. Likewise, this triple-bill showed three bands

with distinctive styles and approaches, and it will be interesting

to see how all three evolve their sounds in the months ahead.

Also in late January, Root and the Fifths and The

Blacksnakes teamed up for a fun double-bill at McGarvey’s.

The Blacksnakes - singer Brian Elliott, guitar “yeti” Jason

Feathers, bassist Hunter Karns and drummer Nate Woods -

started the night with scorching electric blues and classic rock

favorites from the libraries of ZZ Top, the Allman Brothers,

Robin Trower, Buddy Guy, Muddy Waters, original tunes and

more. Adding to the electricity was Root and the Fifths

guitarist Kayla Feaster, who stood in for the latter half of the

set and marched guitar wits with Jason. Introducing new

bassist Pat Lang, Root and the Fifths then delivered

alternative and ‘90s rock favorites from Goo Goo Dolls, Third

Eye Blind, Cracker, Black Keys, Social Distortion, Flys, Blur,

Rancid, Bush and more. Pat seemed to fit in comfortably with

his new band environment, and worked well with

singer/guitarist Jae Smith, Kayla on guitar and drummer Tyke

Dodson. Root’s performance was solid, and I especially

enjoyed their ‘90s alternative makeover of Jefferson Airplane’s

“Somebody to Love.”

Jampact recently introduced their new drummer, as Jamie

Shumac replaces Wade Flick behind the kit. One of Jamie’s

first appearances with Jampact happened last month at

Altoona’s Belmar Hotel. Patrick McGinnis opened up the

evening, strumming acoustic guitar and singing a mix of select

classic folk, rock and blues numbers, along with tunes from his

recently-issued self-titled CD. Patrick did songs from the disc

such as “Sure Feels Like She’s Gone,” “Give Your Love Away”

and “Shades of Grey,” as well as numbers from Neil Young,

The Band, John Prine, Stephen Stills and more. Jampact then

fired up the party; new addition Jamie, singer/guitarist Ryan

Clark and bassist/keyboardist Steve Treado mixed upbeat rock

and pop favorites spanning the 1960s to today. Their selection

this night included hits from Bob Seger, Tom Petty, Rolling

Stones, Johnny Cash, Green Day, Goo Goo Dolls, Van

Morrison, Black Keys, Ted Nugent, Poison, Bryan Adams and

more. They also broke out the occasional rare gem, such as

versions of Walter Egan’s “Magnet and Steel,” Spirit’s “I Got

a Line on You,” The Cult’s “Little Devil” and more. Jamie’s

addition bolsters Jampact’s vocal arsenal as he shares lead

singing duties with Ryan, and the group welcomed several

singing guests along the way. Lisa Bock sang lead on several

numbers, and dueted with Ryan on Rob Thomas and Lee Ann

Rimes’ hit “Gasoline and Matches.” Mike Wilks contributed

The Professor continued...



his bold voice on versions of “Mustang Sally” and “Rockin’ in

the Free World,” and guest singer Pierre from Georgia fronted

Jampact on Wild Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music.” The new

mach lineup of Jampact continues to bring the party; see them

when they return to the Belmar on April 18th.

At the risk of glossing my own band’s party, the Backyard

Rockers celebrated three years of making music by inviting

fans, musical and non-musical friends to a fun early-February

bash at Pellegrine’s that alternated musical performances

between two stages. Playing keys, guitar and singing; Phil

Baskin opened the night with a variety folk and rock favorites,

demonstrating intricate, jazz-informed textures and

arrangements. The host band then did what they have

established during their first three years, mixing acoustic rock,

folk, country and blues favorites. Singer/guitarist Rich Dasch,

“Harmonica Dave” Baird and a “Professor” on hand

percussion did numbers from The Band, Neil Young, Tom

Petty, Steve Earle, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bob Dylan and Old Crow

Medicine Show. The group welcomed guests Mo Yon on guitar

and vocals plus Ambush 3D bassist D.J. Gates to sit in on

several numbers. Two-thirds of 22 East - singer/guitarist Ron

Russell and Rick Guyer on cajon - then offered fresh and

tasteful treatments of several classics, including not-often heard

gems like Boston’s “Amanda,” the Zombies’ “She’s Not

There” and the Guess Who’s “Share the Land.” Ambush 3D

then cranked up the rock with their selection of 1970s and ‘80s

classics. Singer/keyboardist Adam D, guitarist/singer Kip

Woodring, the aforementioned D.J. Gates on bass and

drummer/singer Jamie Shumac triggered dance floor action

with songs from Steve Miller Band, Journey, Billy Joel, Eagles,

Bob Seger, Aerosmith, Styx and more. An added highlight

during their set was “Harmonica Dave’s” lead vocal cameo on

Tom Petty’s “Learning to Fly.” Mo Yon then displayed his

cordial, laid-back style on acoustic favorites from Dave

Loggins, the Rolling Stones, Jackyl’s “Secret of the Bottle” and

more. Another big highlight of the evening was the

performance by Skye 2.0, who dazzled with their performance

of 1970s-era progressive and arena rock classics. The dual

keyboard tandem of Ken Civils and lead singer Adam D,

guitarist/singer Don Osborn, bassist/singer Kris Civils and

drummer Bill Hocherl tackled some of rock’s most complex

classics; doing Yes’ “Roundabout” and “Astral Traveler,” a

passage from “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and King Crimson’s

“Court of the Crimson King,” where their soaring vocal

harmonies sounded almost Sistine Chapel choir-like! Skye 2.0

also rocked the house with numbers from Deep Purple, Styx,

Cheap Trick and Boston. Logging the most distance to join the

festivities this night, western PA’s Flying Blind -

singer/guitarist Chris Pickering and bassist Nick Kosanovich

- kept the vibe upbeat with their lively renditions of favorites

from Rod Stewart, Tommy Tutone, George Michael, CCR, the

Beatles, Stone Temple Pilots and more. The night then finished

with a jam session, with members of several of the bands plus

additional musical guests mixing their chops on several

common song favorites. On behalf of my Backyard Rockers

bandmates, thanks to everyone who came out and made this a

special and fun night, and thanks to all who have supported our

musical adventure during these first three years!

I witnessed several acoustic performances in recent weeks,

one of them in late January at The After Dark (formerly

Mojo’s) in Clearfield. The centerpiece of this acoustic triple-

bill was an “unplugged” appearance by Long Island, NY-based

national touring act Blameshift, who played the middle leg of

the bill. Singer Jenny Mann and guitarist Tim Barbour

showcased acoustic slants on a number of original songs, as

well as a few select covers. Jenny and Tim did numbers from

Blameshift’s latest “Secrets” CD such as “The Enemy You

Need,” the title track “Secrets,” “Destroy Your Masquerade”

and others. They also inspired an audience sing-a-long with

their version of Aerosmith’s “Crying,” and also offered a

rendition of the Foo Fighters’ “My Hero.” Before their set,

Eric Koval opened the night with a strong set featuring

original songs and select covers; he showed a sturdy voice and

poise throughout his set, and offered inventive takes on Pink

Floyd’s “Time” and the Beatles’ “I Am the Walrus.” And

following Blameshift’s set, Brandon Giuffre finished the

evening with his unique slant on favorites spanning the 1960s

to present. With his upbeat, conversational style, Brandon

encouraged grooving and even dancing in front of the stage as

he performed numbers from Blind Faith, Old Crow Medicine

Show, U2, Foo Fighters, Journey, Fallout Boy, Fuel, the Verve

Pipe and more.

Area native and musician Rue Moyer recently returned to

the area after spending several years living in China. During a

performance last month at the Belmar Hotel, Rue displayed a

clear, vibrant voice and fun, upbeat personality as he mixed

original songs with select cover material. Rue explained the

inspirations behind his songs; “Appalachian Hills of PA” was a

remembrance of where he grew up, “Kicking Stones” was

inspired by his grandfather, while “Full Tank of Gas” was

inspired by road journeys he took while living in China. He

also did the original numbers “Throw Me a Line” and “Wise

Words,” and offered his own flavor to favorites from Jason

Mraz, Train, CCR, Zac Brown Band, Dobie Gray, John Denver,

Jimmy Buffett, the Eagles and more. Military endeavors will

take Rue out of the area later this year; but in the interim, he

will be performing shows around the region.

The guitar player for area country favorite Ricky Lee and

also a solo performer, Matt Pletcher entertains every other

Wednesday night in the upstairs Four Dees Lounge, and he

often welcomes friends to help him make the music. That

happened when I saw one of his performances early last month,

when guest Eric Wertz helped generate the fun. Matt and Eric

mixed a wide variety of cover material with original songs

from Matt’s recently-issued debut solo CD, “Sure Thing”.

Matt and Eric swapped singing duties throughout the night as

they performed modern and classic rock, pop and country

numbers. Some of their selections included Deep Blue

Something’s “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” The Cure’s “Just Like

Heaven,” Presidents of the United States of America’s

“Lump,” The Flys’ “Got You Where I Want You,” plus songs



Root & the Fifths by Jim Price


from Johnny Cash, James, Outfield, George Michael, Steve

Miller Band, Dion and more. They also connected Sublime’s

“What I Got” into Chumbawumba’s “Tubthumpin,’” and Luke

Bryan’s “Drink a Beer” into Green Day’s “Good Riddance” to

end the night.

Triple Threat reliably continues to bring their acoustic rock

and blues mixture to Pellegrine’s on the second Thursday of

each month. During their appearance last month,

singer/guitarist Don Osborn, bassist/singer Bill Hunter and

percussionist Bill Hocherl entertained a receptive audience

with their distinctive renditions of classics from Cream, the

Beatles, Eric Clapton, Bill Withers and more. Triple Threat

did established favorites like Cream’s “Sunshine of Your

Love,” J.J. Cale/Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Call Me the Breeze” and

Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine,” but also dug deeper for

renditions of Jimmy Thackery’s “Cool Guitar” and James

Brown’s “Licking Stick” to end the night.

It began recently when during one quiet evening at

Pellegrine’s, Nathan Beatty happened to have his keyboard

with him, plugged it in and serenaded patrons seated at the

main bar. It has evolved into “Piano at the Bar,” as Nate

brings his keyboard magic to Pellegrine’s on select Thursday

evenings. During one of his appearances last month, Nate

tickled the ivories and sang an interesting variety of song

material spanning rock, pop, jazz and country. Nate’s keyboard

prowess itself was dazzling and entertaining, as his fingers

danced through jazz and classically-informed passages while

he offered his distinctive and improvisational takes on numbers

from Mark Cohn, John Mayer, Ariana Grande, Darius Rucker,

Gloriana, Billy Joel and more. Nate mixed his music with

personal insights on the songs, humorous stories and more. For

fun and relaxing entertainment while dining or conversing with

friends, see Nate in action when he presents “Piano at the

Bar” or - during frigid cold winter nights like we have

experienced lately - “Piano by the Fireplace” at Pellegrine’s.

Other performers I saw in recent weeks included participants

during the weekly Tuesday Open Mic Night at D’Ottavio’s

Gran Sasso in Hollidaysburg; including Ron Balestino, Casey

Smith, Tim Boland, Spacefish, John Paul, Carl Rieger and

the duos of Tami Hinish & Jeremy Schimansky and Dwane

Edmiston & Jordan Albarano. I also witnessed some fun jam

displays during Pellegrine’s weekly Wednesday Jam Night.

The area and state music scene lost several cherished

members and friends in recent weeks. Denise Karwoski

(Trautman), the longtime singer with such Johnstown-based

groups as Red Alert and the Johnstown Classic Rockers, passed

away on January 27th after a

lengthy illness at age 60. Joel

DiPietro, who played in a

number of central PA-based

bands including Exit 13, S.B.S.,

Wiskerbisket and more, passed

away on February 1st at age 44.

Skell drummer Keith Kweder

passed away on February 2nd

from a sudden respiratory issue

at age 32; besides Skell, Keith

was also involved in other

projects including Dimwit and

Mother Cool, which released a

CD in 2013. Mike Moritz,

who played with several

Harrisburg-based rock bands

that frequented the region in

the 1980s and 1990s, died on

February 5th at age 54. Mike

played bass and sang for such

groups as M&M Stew, Ashley

Krump, Backstreet Kids,

Silver City, Pout and more,

and he also taught guitar in the

Hershey area. And on February 7th, Donald “Tood” Smith,

the former guitarist for popular Altoona-based hard rock bands

Tommi-Gunn and Half Tempted, unexpectedly passed away at

age 48. Tood was known for his guitar abilities as well as his

witty personality. In recent years, he managed area acoustic

duo Born and the Beanstalk.

News and notes…While national news headlines from last

month’s Grammy Awards presentation regarded the drama

surrounding Kanye West, Beck and Beyonce, an area musician

and music historian’s Grammy involvement flew under the

radar. In the category of Boxed or Special Limited Edition

Package, the six-disc vinyl set “The Rise and Fall of

Paramount Records, Volume One (1917-27)” won the

Grammy Award; Jerry Zolten was a collaborator on this

Denise Karwoski

Keith Kweder

Donald “Tood” Smith


Ambush 3D by Jim Price

Triple Threat by Jim Price

The Professor contines...


project, and contributed as a writer and researcher. The music

of area frontman Todd Giornesto’s early 1990s New York-

based power-metal project Beyond Reason has been re-issued

on a new CD; Arkeyn Steel Records has issued “A New

Reflection”, which features the full digital remaster of Beyond

Reason’s two demo recordings from 1990 and 1992. The

Allegheny Ukulele Kollective presents their second annual

Ukulele Soiree on March 2st1 at Penn State Altoona’s

Misciagna Family Center for the Performing Arts; the event

will feature numerous ukulele skill workshops, as well as

workshops and concerts by featured performers Victoria Vox

and Stuart “Stukulele” Fuchs. Bastard Bearded Irishmen

announced that guitarist Jon Pitcher departed the group

reently to devote more time to family.

Happy Birthdays to Kent Tonkin (Lies, Inc./Drum the

Ecstatic), Jeremy Nelson (Mama Corn), Kirk Tonkin

(Cottonmouth), Kevin Siegel (Naildriver), Joe Konior, Bob

Muhlbauer (Ozone Rangers), John “JK” Kennedy (Miss

Melanie & the Valley Rats/Tyne & the Fastlyne), Dave

Nichols (Red Alert/The Boomers), Jim Donovan (St. Francis

World Drumming Ensemble/Sun King Warriors), Harry

Pepper (Sun King Warriors), Ken Pompa (Night Train/Jerry’s

Fault), Pam Hiles (Zombie Butterflies), Chris Lawson

(Nobody’s Heroes), Kate Twoey (Pure Cane Sugar), Rick

Ramsey (Disorganized Crime), Autumn Shiffler (This

Albatross), Walt Yatta (Raining Blue), Ken Civils (Skye 2.0),

Tom Brown, Allen Jones (One Brick Shy), Jim Bagrosky,

Mycenea Worley, Jimmy Adler, Greg Hatch (Darkness On

The Radio), Rene Witzke (Maxwell Strait/Ted McCloskey &

the Hi Fis), Junior Tutwiler (Pure Cane Sugar/J-Mac &

Junior), Mandy Passmore (Full Kilt), Dan Myers II (Locked

and Loaded), Eric Smay (Lucky Lad Green), Paul Chakot

(Black Ridge), Mark Diehl (Midnight Rodeo/Dunnings

Creek), Jerry Martin (StarChild), Trey Carruthers (The

Hope Fallacy), Josh Michael (Saving Jake), Dave Collins,

Darren Buchko, Jen Bertiaux, Larry Brest, Fredrico, Alicia

Hritsko, Dewayne McKnight and John McKnight.

Please send correspondence and recordings to: Jim Price,

1104 S. Catherine St., Altoona, PA 16602. You can also e-

mail me at [email protected]. And if you’re into

social networking, look me up on Facebook or Google+.

SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC

What we Offer YOU for YourMarketing Investment:

• 12,000 Copies distributed in Major Clubs,

Music Stores and Malls throughout the state(that’s 12,000 FLYERS out there WITH YOUR

NAME on them! People collect each issue)

• Link to www.pamusician.netWE SCAN YOUR AD ONTO OUR SITE

and place a link from your ad to your website or

myspace (over 10,000 hits and more per month!)

• When you advertise with us, Like us at

www.facebook.com/PA Musiciaan Magazineand share your events and what is happening and we

will share them on our Timeline as well.

• Lets Club Owners know you’re Serious about helping to PROMOTE YOUR GIGS and

GET YOUR FANS and NEW FANS to the show.

• Puts Your Phone Number & Website at the tips of club owners & fans.

You have the talent, you have the band,

the equipment, the CD, now you

just need to let people know.

Let us help you.... 717-444-2423

USE ‘the paper” that the Music Industry USES!

m a g a z i n e



CLASSIFIED NOTES

WANTED: WE PAY CASH

for used guitars, amps,

effects, etc!!! Call Matt at

Cre te r Gu i t a r Shop ,

Jonestown at 717-865-3677.

We also do guitar repairs and

have a variety of lessons

available.

WANTED: Vintage guitars,

basses, amps, banjos, etc.

Fender, Gibson, Martin,

Rickenbacker, Gretsch, etc.

Top dollar paid! Call Player’s

Exchange at 717-975-2385 or

stop by and see us at 225 S.

Third St. Lemoyne, PA.

Email: [email protected].

THE BEST VALUE FOR

YOUR RECORDING

DOLLAR: Celebrating our

30th year in business. Pro

Tools, HD3/Accel, 192k

Interface, 2 inch 24 track

analog, 16 channels of API

outboard mic pres, Yamaha

Maple Custom Absolute kit,

SWR 7 GK bass amps,

Marshall half stack, Fender

twin & Bassman guitar amps,

Hammond B-3, Yamaha C7

grand piano. Authorized Pro

Tool dealers. CD/DVD

duplication on site 3 CCC

Video Services. 5.1 surround

mixing. $300 per day.

www.datamusicsvcs.com,

Altoona PA. Phone 814-944-

2406.

RIGHT C O A S T

RECORDING: State of the

ar t vintage recording

environment with years of

experience and a long list of

s a t i s f i e d c u s t o m e r s .

www.rightcoastrecording.com

Phone 717-560-1530.

WANTED TO BUY: Piano

sheet music. Call 717-250-

4798.

FOR SALE: Music Store,

complete stock and displays.

Moe’st Everything Muse 825

Ann Street, Stroudsburg, PA

18360.Call 570-223-6900

shop or 570-350-2962 cell.

DRUM LESSONS: Altoona

area. Drum lessons from Jim

Bagrosky. Any music or

songs. Beginners to advanced.

Any age. I can come to you if

needed!! Call 814-215-3541.

Please say, “I saw your ad in

t h e P E N N S Y LVANIA

MUSICIAN MAGAZINE”

FOR SALE: Personal

Collection 7,200 Country 45’s

with origianl papers and

picture sleeves. Very good

condition, asking $1,800. 814-

765-1222. Ask for Don.

FOR SALE: 700 33 1/3

Records all in sleeves for

$100; 700 45’s records all in

sleeves for $100; 175 45

records all in sleeves they are

Variety and Comedy all for

$150. 717-567-3700.

DRUM LESSONS: Altoona

area. Drum lessons from Jim

Bagrosky. Any music or

songs. Beginners to advanced.

Any age. I can come to you if

needed!! Call 814-215-3541.

FOR SALE: 2 Peavey

TLS4X 2 Peavey bass bins,

Road case PRWN 14x

Yamaha MG 16/4 2 Amps PV

2600, QSC, GX5 Lexicon

MX200 furman M-8 x 2

DBX223XL $3,000. Call 717-

513-6671.

FOR SALE: Nice vintage

Rogers Drums with all

hardware of not, your choice.

I’m looking for smaller

cheaper set to purchase. Also

Amp cabinets for sale,

combos 717-303-4211.

FOR SALE: Vintage Five

piece Rogers Drum set; 3

Rogers cymbal stands, rogers

Hi Hat stand, Rogers bass

drum pedal, Rogers stool,

excellent condition, $1,200

firm. 717-737-8443 or 717-

315-8789.

FOR SALE: Elation Light

Show. Smokin Gunnz is

selling their light show 16 par

56s , 4, 415 packs, 1 board, 4

trees & cables. Ready to Plug

& Play. Call Bob 717-832-

6154. Asking $900 or best

offer only 2 years old we paid

over $1,900 new

FOR SALE: Tascam 380 24

track recording board with

V.U. meters, $500 717-627-

4800.

FOR SALE: Mastering

cassette recorders like new,

$35 each. 717-627-4800.

FOR SALE: Acoustic foam.

Great for studio, control

rooms, stages, rehearsal

space. (4)sheets 2-3” thick,

54” square. $50 takes all. 610-

488-0914

F O R S A L E :

Studio/apartment refrigerator.

Keep your drinks cold while

you rehearse! Small Sanyo

refrigerator. $50. 610-488-

0914

FOR SALE: Compressor/

l imi te r s . Aphex 720

Domina to r I I , DBX

266XL,Drawmer 241L. Leave

message. 610-488-0914.

FOR SALE: Microphones.

(2) AKG C-391 B condensers.

Excellentcondition, low

price. Bass roll off and-10db

attenuation. Includes clips,

foam windscreen, cables and

protectivecases. 610-488-

0914.

FOR SALE: Multitrack

recorders. Tascam. (3) DA-

88’s, (1) DA-38 and (1)RC-

848. Includes sync cables

w/balanced snakes, rack cases

and custom oakremote control

stand. Leave message. 610-

488-0914.

FOR SALE: Multi effects

processors: t.c. electronics

M5000 w/digital options..

Lexicon LXP-5 w/MRC.

Leave message 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: DI box. ProCo

CB-1. $20

Leave message 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: Record video of

your band from the stage or

Front of Housesound board.

Attach any camera to these

unique CAMERA MOUNTS.

Leave message 610-488-

0914

FOR SALE: DAT Recorder.

Panasonic SV-3500 in very

good working andcosmetic

condition. Includes power

cable, wired remote and

original shippingbox. Records

at 44.1 khz. 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: Mic stands and

tons of cabling. Mic cables,

instrumentcables, snakes

(RCA, ?”, XLR etc),,monster

speaker cables, balanced

EDCO to multi-pin etc. Leave

message. 610-488-0914

FOR SALE: Hammond

Proline 860 Leslie, With foot

pre-amp and leslie 11 pin

cable, All in great condition!

$600.00 Phone 717-248-8739

Email: superstarr@hot-

shot.com

BUSINESSCLASSFIEDS:

EQUIPMENTFOR SALE:

continued on next pg...


FOR SALE: Peavey LB1200

par 64 midi and dmx

controled lights with gels, 2

bars with 4 lights each. work

great $250.00 Ph. 717-248-

8739 email: superstarr@hot-

shot.com

FOR SALE: 1 Pair of JBL

TR Series Tower speakers,

dual 15” subwoofers and horn

speakers $500.00 570-765-

2227 Don.

MUSICIANSWANTED

WANTED: “One,” a band

based in NEPA with published

original material and signed

with a major promoter; is

currently seeking a

Keyboardist, Vocalist and

Guitarist with vocal ability for

recording and concert venues.

(Serious inquiries, please)

Dennis 570-704-8131.

WANTED: Keyboardist witth

vocals for classic / original

rock-n-roll band: Full size

Hammond B-3 with 147

Leslie cabinet provided.

Rehearsal Space located in

Milton, PA for $20 per hour.

leave name, number, brief

message; We will return your

call 570-412-4312.

WANTED: Musicians.

Forming all original black

metal group. Seeking like

minded professional

members. Musical abilities,

image conscience. Drums,

bass and lead. Interested gouls

feel free to email, or 717-770-

9621

DRUMMER WANTED: for

originals studio project. hard-

edged, melodic, progressive

rock. Electronic set a big plus.

Newer stuff is waiting.

[email protected]

WANTED: LYRICIST

searching for an imaginative

lyrics writer to put his/her

words to my original music

compositions for studio

recordings. Dark, deep,

passionate.

[email protected]

WANTED: Drummer for all

original band.We play rock to

hard rock. Must have

equipment, transportation, and

experience. Craig 717-418-

0020 or Matt 717-712-2008

WANTED:

Frontman/Vocalist Lancaster-

based rock band seeking

frontman/vocalist. proficiency

with rhythm guitar and / or

harp a plus. Larry after 5pm

717 252 2616.

WANTED: Bassist needed

for central pa 80s rock cover

band. Call or write for details

717-421-3868 or

[email protected]

WANTED: Musicians.

Autumns Golden Oldies a

Working 50’s & 60’s Band.

Looking For Keyboard/

Possibly lead Guitar

Player. Vocals a Plus. Please

Call Randy 570-898-6888.

WANTED: Piano Player/

Keyboardist for original rock/

folk/ blues project. Singing

and songwriting a plus.

Contact

[email protected] or

717-813-5158 for details.

WANTED: Musicians. All

female rock band

Streetwalker is reforming in

Pittsburgh , seeks female bass

, drums. over 21. Must have

talent. Your equipment. We

have agents and promoters

waiting 717-364-5660.

WANTED: Musicians.

Seeking lead guitar, drums,

bassist, keyboards. All

original black metal group.

Prefer experience, will deal if

none. Male or female

Image attitude dedication a

must. 717-770-9621

dsadler131@gmail.

WANTED: Musicians.

Original goth metal band

seeks male or female Drums,

keyboard, lead guitar, bass.

Dedication and image a must.

Type O Nightwish Moonspell

Dimmu Borgir.

dsadler131@gmail. 717-770-

9621.

WANTED: Lead guitarist

wanted for working Central

Pa rock band Disorderly

Conduct wanna make some

money and have some fun

email

[email protected] or

call Scott 1-717-318-1725

WANTED: Lyricist seeks

composer: Many songs, many

genres, rock, rap, country.

Need set to music. E-mail me

at [email protected]. Bob

D

MUSICIANSAVAILABLE

AVAILABLE: Male vocalist,

excellent range. Some rhythm

guitar skills. Best at singing

50s-60s oldies rock and roll or

80s-90s country songs.

Carlisle-Harrisburg area. 717-

533-5263

AVAILABLE: Rock

Vocalist. Kevin Dubrow,

Robert Plant, Bon Scott,

Layne Staley type voice.

Rhythm guitar skills also.

Prefer established original or

cover. HBG area. Reply:

[email protected].

AVAILABLE MUSICIAN:

Playing 35 years lead, slide,

and acoustic guitars. Solid

lead or back up vocals if

needed. Solid personal stage

equipment. Solid

transportation and D.L.

Playing 35 years Top 20

Dance and party, blues,

Southern, and rock music. I

am married, clean cut, semi

retired with lots of time. The

band I’m in always comes

first! I do not use or need

heroin, cocaine or alchohol to

enhance my playing

capabilities. Please no heavy,

punk or hard rock. West York,

Haover and Gettysburg areas.

Please call Dave Lanich. 717-

817-2165.

AVAILABLE: Guitarist from

Harrisburg area looking to put

together band at my location

or yours. Weekend rehearsals

only. Covering 70’s I0’s

material. Easy stuff to start.

717-303-4211.

www.pamusician.net

Classified Notes continued...


STARCHILD - VOLUME 3 (nolabel) Starting out as a Kiss tributeband, Harrisburg’s StarChildcelebrated and emulated the soundof early Kiss on their first twodiscs,Volume 1 and Volume 2,along the way evolving an originalsound rooted in Kiss’ mid-1970sglory period. While that ‘kiss’ stillgraces the group’s sound on theirlatest effort,Volume 3, StarChild

steps forward with a more aggressive, heavier and edgier slant.Singer, guitarist and group ringleader Jerry Martin howls withmore intensity and reckless abandon; and assisted bywife/bassist Sharon Starr and guitarist X-Bomb, drives themajority of the disc’s ten songs forward at a more urgent clip.The leadoff anthem “Come Back for More” slams the dooropen to welcome listeners back for the third round, while“Heart Of Stone” drops a Motley Crue-like engine into theirKiss-rooted chassis. StarChild ramps up the velocity with twoburners in “Slave (Chained to Love)” and the disc-closer“Urban Blight.” They craft a sturdy melodic rocker with“Anytime (Waiting on Your Call),” and effectively decelerate aswell with two power ballads, the breakup-themed “Unfriend”and the rockstar dream ode “Alive.” As they did on the first twodiscs, StarChild pays homage to their main influence, but thistime taps one song apiece from Kiss’ 1980s and 1990s catalogswith remakes of “Tears Are Falling” and “Psycho Circus”respectively. And reprising her first lead vocal appearance fromVolume 2, Starr steps up her vocal aggression as well with herfeisty read of Joan Jett’s hit “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”The performances are brisk and bold, and StarChild deliverstheir originals and remakes with ample heart and enthusiasm.Produced by Martin and again engineered by Derek Euston atHarrisburg’s Green Room Studio, Volume 3 soundsappropriately powerful and vibrant, blending the group’s edgewith smoothness and fullness. As StarChild continues to tiptheir hats to their influences on Volume 3, they also proceed toedge their original sound forward, and proudly pound out a pathof their own. (The CD can be obtained through StarChild’sReverbnation page, www.reverbnation.com/StarChildBand.)

HANNAH BINGMAN - LOAM

(no label) For more than adecade, Hannah Bingman hashoned and refined her distinctivebrand of acoustic-based folkmusic, rooted in traditional folkand Americana. On her latestalbum, Loam, she expands fromthat traditional folk music

foundation to explore a variety of flavors, spanning jazz, blues,folk-rock and more. Bingman’s songwriting has evolved fromthe more freewheeling and improvisational approach of herearlier material to more structured and concise melodies onLoam. Her lyrical messages remain direct and assertive, as shecelebrates rural heritage, family and her life’s journey. Shedoesn’t back down from any challenges on the disc-opening“Deep Water,” resolving to ‘swim” and face the elements. Thatresolve was shaped by her rural upbringing, a theme sherecounts in the rustic “Farmer’s Prayer.” She explores rural andtraditional values and work ethic on “Hard Times, Our Times,”and considers the plight of the modern farmer on the solemn“Farmer’s Plea.” Introspection is the theme of Bingman’ssturdy folk-rocker “Heart on Fire,” and she sings a hopeful odefor the future on “Mustard Seed (Song for Kathryn Mae).”Bingman’s musical explorations include jazzy terrain on “HardHearted Woman,” “Had a Mind, Had a Heart” and the disc-ending “Jericho,” honky-tonk on the barroom-themed“Pennies,” and delta blues on “Stranger.” Several guests helpcolor the arrangements through the album, as Doug McMinn’sclarinet and Nell Hanssen’s trumpet augment the jazzierflavors, Kathryn Johnston’s violin enhances the rustic moods,and Kim Reichley (who co-produced the album with Bingman)adds touches of bass, dobro, mandolin, piano and more.Bingman’s gritty and determined singing style drives her lyricalmessages home and provides the cohesive thread that ties thisset together, while the varying styles and moods keep the albumfresh-sounding and vibrant. Loam clearly shows HannahBingman’s growth and maturity as an artist; she adheres to herfolk roots, while embracing the adventure of exploring themusical world around her. (The CD can be purchased throughHannah Bingman’s website, www.hannahbingman.com.)

PATRICK McGINNIS - PATRICK McGINNIS (no label)Patrick McGinnis has been involved in making music oncentral PA stages since the 1970s, as a member of multiple band

projects, as a sound engineer, and asa solo performer. He has writtennumerous songs during his career,and presents eight of them on hisfirst self-titled CD. His general stylerooted in the folk singer/songwritertradition of John Prine, Bob Dylan,Guy Clark and others; McGinnisdisplays a clear knack for craftingcatchy, hook-laden melodies, and

also demonstrates excellent skills as a wordsmith with simple,hopeful and heartfelt messages. The disc-opening “Give YourLove Away” mixes spoken narrative and chorus as McGinnisencourages listeners to share the love and take stock in thesimple things that provide happiness. The uplifting, clap-alongblues of “Winds Of Change” communicates that the only thingconstant in life is change. He celebrates the joy and simplicityof quality time with a canine companion on the joyous“Walking My Dog,” and touts the warmth and stability of homeon “Shades Of Grey.” Numerous guest musicians help bringMcGinnis’ song creations to life; guitarist Mark Ross (MissMelanie and the Valley Rats) and keyboardist Mark Rossi addpunch and swagger to the bluesy “I’ll Cry for You,” while theHurricanes’ tandem of guitarist Felix Kos and drummer BobbyWatters add muscle to “Sure Feels Like She’s Gone.” Pedalsteel player Kim Metzgar and the Pure Cane Sugar vocalharmonies of Natalie Race and Molly Countermine color in thecountry tones of the tear-in-beer “I’ve Just Killed the Bottle.”(Other guests include guitarists Jason McIntyre and JuniorTutwiler, Daniel Collins on fiddle, Bill Wilgus on mandolin,Tyne Palazzi on banjo, Jack Wilkinson on drums, and DawnKinnard on backing vocals.) But perhaps the disc’s mostpowerful song also features its simplest arrangement, asMcGinnis closes the set with a tender and heartfelt acousticguitar ode to his wife; “Never” features touching words thatshould bring goose bumps to even the hardest of souls.McGinnis’ voice is strong and constant throughout the set, andthe assortment of stringed tones and arrangements from himand his guests help set the atmosphere for each song. Theperformances are tight, strong and tasteful, and all serve tobuild and support the song material. The production and mixare balanced and enable McGinnis’ voice and all theinstrumental and vocal components to shine. His power ofwords and simplicity of melodies and arrangements makesPatrick McGinnis’ debut disc a bright, feelgood first chapter,offering a pleasant, heartwarming listening experience. (TheCD can be obtained at Pat’s shows, or at Bandman Music inAltoona.)

GRACES DOWNFALL - CHANGE. ADJUST. CONTINUE

(Saturation Acres) In the time that has transpired since their lastCD, 2012’s Resplendent Indignity, Scranton-based rockersGraces Downfall have undergone a transformation,implementing the new rhythm section of bassist Grant Williamsand drummer Jamey Fisk. Some band members have undergonetumultuous transformations in their personal lives as well,

setting the tone for the group’s thirdand latest CD, Change. Adjust.Continue. The new blood plus groupmainstays Kenneth Norton on vocalsand Mark Yanish on guitar reboottheir brand of grunge-edgedalternative rock and metal throughthe disc’s ten tracks, weavingtogether captivating riffs andmelodies, topped with lyricsaddressing the state of their lives,

loves and society. A nasty custody battle appears to inform thewords of several tracks, including the terse disc-opener “Fight”and the thunderous courtroom drama ode “Drop the Case,” bothfiring angry allegations of perjury and manipulation. The hard-driving “Letter to Lainey” and the gentler “Lost Time” addressthe collateral damage stemming from such a battle. “JesusCrutch” dresses down pomposity and hypocrisy from behindthe pulpit, “Strumpets” warns of the evils of band-chasing barvixens, and “Scranton” paints a bleak picture of the currentstate of the band’s home base. Graces Downfall is capable ofmore pleasant moments; the upbeat “Let’s Grow Old” offers ahard-rocking theme of love and devotion, while the disc-endingacoustic ballad “Leah” celebrates an infant daughter. GracesDownfall executes the song material with sharpness andprecision, and the arrangements are tight and focused. Norton’svoice and phrasing command attention, and he sings his wordswith a refreshing clarity. Produced by the band and engineeredby Bret Alexander at Saturation Acres Recording Studio,Change. Adjust. Continue. sounds crisp, punchy and balanced,enabling this music to ring out with appropriate thunder andbite. Graces Downfall’s reboot is a successful one, and Change.Adjust. Continue. is a strong set that establishes that after speedbumps in band and in life, this group has refocused theirdirection and is moving forward. (The CD can be obtainedthrough the group’s website, www.gracesdownfall.net.)

PA MUSICIAN CD REVIEWS...by J im Price “The Professor”

pennsylvania musician magazine march 2015

Documents