Los de esta Noche is a relatively new band here in San Antonio. I, although only guessing, assume they may have formed over the summer. Los de esta Noche played this past saturday at Salute after a march from UTSA's 1604 campus down to the Main Plaza in an effort to raise awareness for the DREAM Act, a legislation allowing illegal immigrants that are either attending school or in the military to stay in the United States without the threat of deportation but rather the opportunity to pursue citizenship, granted they were brought here as children. Alongside this march across town this group of activists, many students at UTSA, are on a hunger strike, vowing to not eat until Senator Hutchison will meet with them and they are allowed to voice their opinions to her about why she should vote for the DREAM act. The event at Salute was to raise the notion of standing up for something, whether it was a professors right to teach what he liked, as the event was initially for or to fight for the DREAM Act this night was meant for activism and charity. So Los De Esta Noche performed because some members were participating in the hunger strike.
Anyway the band, I feel, doesn't have a set genre although they sang in Spanish that was really the only consistent aspect of their songs. Their genres were all over the place much the DJ before them that was playing everything from Michael Jackson to Celia Cruz back to back, playing old school hip hop then followed it with jazz or Britney Spears, he might has well followed it with Britney Spears. Well the band, of course, has some politically charged lyrics since they are a politically active band. Tonight they are playing with a band called Karma which is another spanish singing politically active band that focuses on immigration injustices. Karma sings about such issues like children holding cells where children are kept in prison like facilities while awaiting deportation in central texas.
Esta Noche unlike Karma is singing politically charged songs but wants the crowd to dance and get into the music. Yes it is one thing to sing about something your passionate about, but some people just want to dance. So I appreciate their efforts to make both kind of people appreciate their music.
I have been thinking about this review for quite some time. It's taken me about a week and a half and that's how long this hunger strike has been going on. I feel it is an important issue and hope everyone is already aware of it. I know my review is still incomplete but I hope you check out the issues. I hope the band gets more facebook friends. and check out Salute on N. St. Mary's! It's a really cute little place, they take credit cards. and is locally owned. 21+ only
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
Monday, 8 November 2010
Bombasta
Walking up to see bombasta play at first friday* was a new experience for me. first i had never seen Bombasta play before and second I had never successfully driven to first friday. So I'm walking up with a friend I had not seen a long while and tell him how excited I am to see Bombasta because although we live in San Antonio, I feel, there isn't much of this music being played around here, especially geared toward a younger audience. That's when I realized he didn't know who Bombasta was and could not infer from the band name what he had gotten himself into.
All I could say to him before he could hear the music for himself was they were a latin cumbia rap band or something of that nature. We walk up to groups of families standing around slightly dancing to the loud surge of music the 9 to 10 members of Bombasta were producing. These kind of bands, like Jai Roots and Grupo Fantasma have a full band of at least 8 members with a brass section, strings, vocals and a variety of percussion. We even joked that Bombasta had a professional beer drinker, because one of the percussion members just drank a beer for most of the songs. Anyway further into the songs I share with my friend that I think the name bombasta must be a combo of the words cumbia and rasta, and he agreed that my theory made sense. We watched this group of 30+ men play, sing and dance while trying to entice the audience into singing and dancing along and wandered off for something to drink. After 10 minutes of waiting at Blue Star for a water we come back out to find out the band finished early. Darn.
but aside from that, this band is pretty good. I think they're good for San Antonio. Their songs are catchy and danceable. They bring family crowds and an older latin community like Jai Roots did. I felt like I could dance to their music, but I didn't feel the overwhelming desire to like I did with Grupo Fantasma at the Latin Music Fest at Main Plaza this past weekend. Instead I stood there with my friend that had never been to first friday feeling bad that I was making him stand with me and listen to this band that he is in no way interested in while this event he has never been to is going on around him. But going back to the band Bombasta likes to mix Spanish and English lyrics, singing and talking to the audience, with a strong spanish sound. They don't want people to get up and start dancing in a circle I think they would rather people kind of Salsa dance to their music, which is kind of confusing for a "cumbia" band but that just shows their style and range. I don't really know spanish, but I felt their songs were about their Mexican roots, they have songs that talk about barrios and la raza like most semi-political latin inspired small time bands do.
I want to emphasize that I would see this band again. Even though I feel like I wouldn't really ever want to meet these guys, I would go see them again, especially to see what kind of bands they would play with. Perhaps some other San Antonio local, similar artists.
*First Friday is an art and music event in Southtown San Antonio where there are many free music shows, art viewings and local merchandise for sale. Beer and Food are always on sale there as well, it is family friendly and a community growing experience.
All I could say to him before he could hear the music for himself was they were a latin cumbia rap band or something of that nature. We walk up to groups of families standing around slightly dancing to the loud surge of music the 9 to 10 members of Bombasta were producing. These kind of bands, like Jai Roots and Grupo Fantasma have a full band of at least 8 members with a brass section, strings, vocals and a variety of percussion. We even joked that Bombasta had a professional beer drinker, because one of the percussion members just drank a beer for most of the songs. Anyway further into the songs I share with my friend that I think the name bombasta must be a combo of the words cumbia and rasta, and he agreed that my theory made sense. We watched this group of 30+ men play, sing and dance while trying to entice the audience into singing and dancing along and wandered off for something to drink. After 10 minutes of waiting at Blue Star for a water we come back out to find out the band finished early. Darn.
but aside from that, this band is pretty good. I think they're good for San Antonio. Their songs are catchy and danceable. They bring family crowds and an older latin community like Jai Roots did. I felt like I could dance to their music, but I didn't feel the overwhelming desire to like I did with Grupo Fantasma at the Latin Music Fest at Main Plaza this past weekend. Instead I stood there with my friend that had never been to first friday feeling bad that I was making him stand with me and listen to this band that he is in no way interested in while this event he has never been to is going on around him. But going back to the band Bombasta likes to mix Spanish and English lyrics, singing and talking to the audience, with a strong spanish sound. They don't want people to get up and start dancing in a circle I think they would rather people kind of Salsa dance to their music, which is kind of confusing for a "cumbia" band but that just shows their style and range. I don't really know spanish, but I felt their songs were about their Mexican roots, they have songs that talk about barrios and la raza like most semi-political latin inspired small time bands do.
I want to emphasize that I would see this band again. Even though I feel like I wouldn't really ever want to meet these guys, I would go see them again, especially to see what kind of bands they would play with. Perhaps some other San Antonio local, similar artists.
*First Friday is an art and music event in Southtown San Antonio where there are many free music shows, art viewings and local merchandise for sale. Beer and Food are always on sale there as well, it is family friendly and a community growing experience.
Monday, 1 November 2010
The Mechanical Walking Robot Boy
TMWR's front man usually plays at the Mix. The Mix is a little bar off North Saint Mary's "strip". A place where local comic celebrity Mitch Clem used to frequent. (he would hang out there before I was old enough to go in there. 21+ only)
Anyway following In Beds with an "English" electro-feel vibe was an interesting pairing on the bands choice. but the crowd really enjoyed the songs and both bands. Most of the crowd were familiar with much of the songs TMWR were playing.
Slow, which most of the songs came off of, was released in 2006 and given away as free prizes for people showing up to their set. So as the crowd swayed and sang along TMWR played 10 songs, which is a bit unusual for one set at a bar. and although I did not notice at the time I would not be surprised if those 10 songs were the 10 songs off the album, Slow. just out of order. or maybe it was in order.
Anyway Slow has 10 tracks, some up beat and others eerly depressing, such as "Double" which is track 3 but it is followed by their more nu wave, electro, she was revenge, 90's motif. Then somewhere toward the end of the CD a song called Flipped is about nearly every girl that has ever frequented that bar. Drunk girl going home with random guy kind of song. Then Tracers which shows a more 70's punk side then wrapped up with Slow, the title song. which was really drawn out, should be on Donnie Darko, the Party Scene, really Air sounding. probably my least favorite.
Check out MWRB, check out the mix.
check out donnie darko.
The Mix
2423 N Saint Marys St
San Antonio, TX
Anyway following In Beds with an "English" electro-feel vibe was an interesting pairing on the bands choice. but the crowd really enjoyed the songs and both bands. Most of the crowd were familiar with much of the songs TMWR were playing.
Slow, which most of the songs came off of, was released in 2006 and given away as free prizes for people showing up to their set. So as the crowd swayed and sang along TMWR played 10 songs, which is a bit unusual for one set at a bar. and although I did not notice at the time I would not be surprised if those 10 songs were the 10 songs off the album, Slow. just out of order. or maybe it was in order.
Anyway Slow has 10 tracks, some up beat and others eerly depressing, such as "Double" which is track 3 but it is followed by their more nu wave, electro, she was revenge, 90's motif. Then somewhere toward the end of the CD a song called Flipped is about nearly every girl that has ever frequented that bar. Drunk girl going home with random guy kind of song. Then Tracers which shows a more 70's punk side then wrapped up with Slow, the title song. which was really drawn out, should be on Donnie Darko, the Party Scene, really Air sounding. probably my least favorite.
Check out MWRB, check out the mix.
check out donnie darko.
The Mix
2423 N Saint Marys St
San Antonio, TX
Monday, 25 October 2010
Kill The Peace
Last night I went out to see Kill The Peace play at the 1011. I had just read an interview they did for Edge Magazine and sorely disappointed with the article. The band had a lot of say about who they are as a band and what it means to be in a band to them. Too bad for horrible writing. Anyway Seeing Kill the Peace took them down from the pedestal I had them on. I heard good things about them and loved their political agenda. I feel if you write meaningful lyrics and want music with a message perhaps have people hear your lyrics.
They gave me the same sound over and over again. I know they can produce audible lyrics but they'd rather not. I couldn't feel any energy with what they were trying to give me. It felt like other "hardcore" bands I've seen in the area, why do you tell me what your song is about if I can't understand your lyrics. idgi. They were an obvious open for the band that followed, Edhochuli, who undoubtedly stole the show from Kill the Peace. Their female lead is cute and shy but produces a sound that scares some people and annoys others. She is defiantly the image of what she represents a political, diy, hardcore singer girly girl in short shorts and a tank top but honestly I'm not impressed.
I thought every song pretty much sounded the same as the last and that's not just her fault. I remember in high school people would come out to see a band with a girl in it just to see if she was any good. and usually they didn't measure up. I see this band as a family and they won't change their sister of a singer. She does deliver what this band represents and wants to be. It's just kill the peace isn't my cup of tea.
They gave me the same sound over and over again. I know they can produce audible lyrics but they'd rather not. I couldn't feel any energy with what they were trying to give me. It felt like other "hardcore" bands I've seen in the area, why do you tell me what your song is about if I can't understand your lyrics. idgi. They were an obvious open for the band that followed, Edhochuli, who undoubtedly stole the show from Kill the Peace. Their female lead is cute and shy but produces a sound that scares some people and annoys others. She is defiantly the image of what she represents a political, diy, hardcore singer girly girl in short shorts and a tank top but honestly I'm not impressed.
I thought every song pretty much sounded the same as the last and that's not just her fault. I remember in high school people would come out to see a band with a girl in it just to see if she was any good. and usually they didn't measure up. I see this band as a family and they won't change their sister of a singer. She does deliver what this band represents and wants to be. It's just kill the peace isn't my cup of tea.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
Jai Roots & the Herb-n-Café Project
8 O’clock @ the Main Plaza in the downtown area of our great city, was the time Jai Roots and the Herb-n-Cafe project , a silly play on words, performed this last Saturday. A Latin reggae band in San Antonio seems appropriate for this city, actually necessary. There were multiple songs played that made me wish my parents were there to witness, the typical Hispanic tourist couple.
The strong Latin beats and Spanish salsa flair made ME want to get up and dance! I can only imagine how the people on the river walk would’ve reacted. This band integrates popular Spanish songs, some upbeat others traditional with original reggae creations. Songs of inspiration and love were what these reggae songs entailed, love for music, the human race, culture and roots while alternating from English to Spanish then back again.
The eccentric 8 piece band was well rehearsed and full of energy and performed for 2 hours. This was defiantly a family oriented band that included friends and family members from the crowd into the songs. When I walked up there were already a crowd of men, women and children engrossed in the music. Men in their sixties, women in their twenties, children from age 5 and up, couples, parents with their teens, quite a diverse age range!
The band started off with a strong salsa influenced song and with the singer’s raspy voice I was a bit reserved and unsure about how I felt about his vocals, but they grew on me. The dynamic changed when he switched to reggae, his voice was ideal, Bob Marley was the most obvious influence for him in terms of voice training. Their female vocalist was highlighted in their rendition of a traditional Brazilian song. I felt drawn to her, inspired by her energy, voice, and obvious talent. My attention was also drawn to their charming trumpeter; he was not over powering and did not try to steal the show but a wonderful complement to the aesthetic of the band. Bongos, bass guitar, trumpet, drums, vocals and additional percussion including maracas made up this ensemble but they were not limited to just these members when friends and family came to change up the lineup or assist with the original.
They will be playing Reggae Fest at the Reggae Bar on October 16th , which will probably have them rely on their more Bob Marley inspired songs. Although his Hispanic culture will not be lost, his songs of La Raza and one race are strong and prt of their reacquiring message.
Reggae Bar
2016 Austin Hwy,
San Antonio, TX
The strong Latin beats and Spanish salsa flair made ME want to get up and dance! I can only imagine how the people on the river walk would’ve reacted. This band integrates popular Spanish songs, some upbeat others traditional with original reggae creations. Songs of inspiration and love were what these reggae songs entailed, love for music, the human race, culture and roots while alternating from English to Spanish then back again.
The eccentric 8 piece band was well rehearsed and full of energy and performed for 2 hours. This was defiantly a family oriented band that included friends and family members from the crowd into the songs. When I walked up there were already a crowd of men, women and children engrossed in the music. Men in their sixties, women in their twenties, children from age 5 and up, couples, parents with their teens, quite a diverse age range!
The band started off with a strong salsa influenced song and with the singer’s raspy voice I was a bit reserved and unsure about how I felt about his vocals, but they grew on me. The dynamic changed when he switched to reggae, his voice was ideal, Bob Marley was the most obvious influence for him in terms of voice training. Their female vocalist was highlighted in their rendition of a traditional Brazilian song. I felt drawn to her, inspired by her energy, voice, and obvious talent. My attention was also drawn to their charming trumpeter; he was not over powering and did not try to steal the show but a wonderful complement to the aesthetic of the band. Bongos, bass guitar, trumpet, drums, vocals and additional percussion including maracas made up this ensemble but they were not limited to just these members when friends and family came to change up the lineup or assist with the original.
They will be playing Reggae Fest at the Reggae Bar on October 16th , which will probably have them rely on their more Bob Marley inspired songs. Although his Hispanic culture will not be lost, his songs of La Raza and one race are strong and prt of their reacquiring message.
Reggae Bar
2016 Austin Hwy,
San Antonio, TX
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
JJ Lopez/Tuckers
I don’t usually review DJ’s but I feel it’s time to broaden my reviews and make an exception. Now, I have seen JJ Lopez spin a few times and I can form a proper opinion. I have only seen him spin at Tucker’s Kozy Korner off East Houston Street. I used to frequent this place and would catch him spin on random days. He is known for his old school funk and R&B rhythms. Having such a genre of soul and funk has landed him with quite a diverse crowd and reaction. I have been there to see one couple dance to a song then sit down, a lone dancer, to a complete packed dance floor. When I went this passed Friday the latter was the case, the floor was completely packed with kids dancing to songs their parents grew up listening to. Or at least that was my case; I knew these songs because my mom would play them all the time. There were solo dancers and couples but being part of the crowd is captivating enough for everyone to be okay with dancing alone. rhythm
JJ participates with a group called Super Soul Shakedown and spins every first and third Friday of the month. Or so I’ve heard. He has a very Chicago style about him, I don’t really know what that means but I sense Chicago on him whenever I see him. I just think that guy must be from Chicago, even though he probably is not. Anyway there is a show on the 16th with Super Soul Shakedown featuring T Bird and the Breaks. It’s going to be at Sam’s Burger Joint for $5.
And just for giggles.
JJ participates with a group called Super Soul Shakedown and spins every first and third Friday of the month. Or so I’ve heard. He has a very Chicago style about him, I don’t really know what that means but I sense Chicago on him whenever I see him. I just think that guy must be from Chicago, even though he probably is not. Anyway there is a show on the 16th with Super Soul Shakedown featuring T Bird and the Breaks. It’s going to be at Sam’s Burger Joint for $5.
And just for giggles.
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
Sunny Day Farms, Sara Sanctuary --this is me
I wanted to update about something that is near to my corazon. (and if you know me you know I'm saying it core-a-zone). Anyway I am a vegan and I am vegan for a reason. I believe in animal rights, I believe in the humane treatment of animals, and I believe that animals are not human play things. They were not put on this earth for our personal profit, entertainment or consumption. So, I do have a job, it's a little job and I don't work that many hours but I do have a job. I work for a lawyer and my boss has a non-profit animal rights group as well. This group, which I assist with, is called The Hailey Foundation. (the website is dorky I know, I didn't do it)
This group focuses on raising awareness of animal abuses in Texas and especially in San Antonio. On Tuesday night there was an event at a wonderful little restaurant called India Palace, that graciously provided us with a full vegan buffet for 15 dollars a plate. (i know kind of steep, but being vegan can be that way sometimes) Getting back to the point, San Antonio Vegetarian Society and The Haily Foundation celebrated World Farm Animals Day on Tuesday night. This buffet was accompanied by two delightful speakers from local animal rescue sanctuaries. These sanctuaries focus on rescuing farm animals, hence the reason they were asked to speak and they rescue domestic animals as well.
The first speaker has a sanctuary 30 miles west of San Antonio called Sunny Day Farms. This lady, nearly broke my heart, she was a younger lady with a child that put her entire life into this sanctuary. She is really grassroots and has but one employee. She spoke of outreach to children and has opened the farm every Saturday for educational and recreational tours to children and adults. All SDF asks is a small donation of 5 or 6 dollars. Then the founder of SARA Sanctuary spoke and this sanctuary has a few sponsors, they work with San Antonio Food Bank and HEB helps them out where they can as well. SARA is located in Seguin, TX and has over 300 dogs at their facility. Both are always desperate for volunteers, donations and sponsors.
This post is not to get anyone into veganism. I am not trying to convert anyone here. but if anyone is interested in helping out people who devote their lives to helping creatures, beings, fellow earthlings that were put in situations less fortunate than nature intended, that are getting a second lease on life being rehabilitated and living on a sanctuary, then please check these places out. Volunteer your time, Donate a few dollars, Spread the word. Anything helps, they're local and they're grassroots and they need help. I personally feel the urge to go out there and get my hands dirty but I encourage everyone to help in anyway possible. Oh and sign up for their email lists to hear about their fund raising events. I know they have a few coming up.
And maybe if anyone can let me know, for every dollar donated I will donate an hour of my time. Just tell me "hey i donated 2 dollars" or "hey I donated 50" and I will say---there goes my weekends. haha. Thank you for reading this and I hope it helps make a small difference.
This group focuses on raising awareness of animal abuses in Texas and especially in San Antonio. On Tuesday night there was an event at a wonderful little restaurant called India Palace, that graciously provided us with a full vegan buffet for 15 dollars a plate. (i know kind of steep, but being vegan can be that way sometimes) Getting back to the point, San Antonio Vegetarian Society and The Haily Foundation celebrated World Farm Animals Day on Tuesday night. This buffet was accompanied by two delightful speakers from local animal rescue sanctuaries. These sanctuaries focus on rescuing farm animals, hence the reason they were asked to speak and they rescue domestic animals as well.
The first speaker has a sanctuary 30 miles west of San Antonio called Sunny Day Farms. This lady, nearly broke my heart, she was a younger lady with a child that put her entire life into this sanctuary. She is really grassroots and has but one employee. She spoke of outreach to children and has opened the farm every Saturday for educational and recreational tours to children and adults. All SDF asks is a small donation of 5 or 6 dollars. Then the founder of SARA Sanctuary spoke and this sanctuary has a few sponsors, they work with San Antonio Food Bank and HEB helps them out where they can as well. SARA is located in Seguin, TX and has over 300 dogs at their facility. Both are always desperate for volunteers, donations and sponsors.
This post is not to get anyone into veganism. I am not trying to convert anyone here. but if anyone is interested in helping out people who devote their lives to helping creatures, beings, fellow earthlings that were put in situations less fortunate than nature intended, that are getting a second lease on life being rehabilitated and living on a sanctuary, then please check these places out. Volunteer your time, Donate a few dollars, Spread the word. Anything helps, they're local and they're grassroots and they need help. I personally feel the urge to go out there and get my hands dirty but I encourage everyone to help in anyway possible. Oh and sign up for their email lists to hear about their fund raising events. I know they have a few coming up.
And maybe if anyone can let me know, for every dollar donated I will donate an hour of my time. Just tell me "hey i donated 2 dollars" or "hey I donated 50" and I will say---there goes my weekends. haha. Thank you for reading this and I hope it helps make a small difference.
Monday, 27 September 2010
Crotch on Fire
I go to shows quite often and I like going to shows so I usually go to about 3 or 4 a week. The show I went to last night is my review for tonight.
This was Crotch on Fire's final show. One member of the band moved to Chicago and the band has decided to dismantle. I don't know why for certain though. Anyway this 5 piece all male band started off their set with a Lisa Frank cover, an all female band that played their last show last at Korova a week before. Grrlz Just Wanna Have Fun.
Starting off with this song gave the show a really light mood with crowd interaction and a song many people knew. The band spoke casually to the crowd, most of the members no doubt the band knew. The singer insisted on telling us what the songs were about, las hijas de chingada did this too. I'm not sure why because the lyrics are incomprehensible. "This one is about skateboarding" he says then "this one is about heroin". I want to write a song about heroin. COF is a screamo grindcore band, Kind of punk//hardcore. They were good, but sounded even better after they borrowed a guitar from Guards. There were technical difficulties and a guitar had to be replaced asap or there would be one less player of the band that night. So Guards' new guitar player, Grayson, graciously offered his.
"Have you ever heard of Finger Print?" a friend asked me. Of course I say no, and of course I look them up. Finger Print was a screamo/punk/hardcore anarchist band from France in the early 90's I think. and an obvious influence. but If you saw COF in the past month or so you probably caught one of their last shows. They claimed to have played their last show last night. Wish them luck with their other band endeavors.
This was Crotch on Fire's final show. One member of the band moved to Chicago and the band has decided to dismantle. I don't know why for certain though. Anyway this 5 piece all male band started off their set with a Lisa Frank cover, an all female band that played their last show last at Korova a week before. Grrlz Just Wanna Have Fun.
Starting off with this song gave the show a really light mood with crowd interaction and a song many people knew. The band spoke casually to the crowd, most of the members no doubt the band knew. The singer insisted on telling us what the songs were about, las hijas de chingada did this too. I'm not sure why because the lyrics are incomprehensible. "This one is about skateboarding" he says then "this one is about heroin". I want to write a song about heroin. COF is a screamo grindcore band, Kind of punk//hardcore. They were good, but sounded even better after they borrowed a guitar from Guards. There were technical difficulties and a guitar had to be replaced asap or there would be one less player of the band that night. So Guards' new guitar player, Grayson, graciously offered his.
"Have you ever heard of Finger Print?" a friend asked me. Of course I say no, and of course I look them up. Finger Print was a screamo/punk/hardcore anarchist band from France in the early 90's I think. and an obvious influence. but If you saw COF in the past month or so you probably caught one of their last shows. They claimed to have played their last show last night. Wish them luck with their other band endeavors.
Monday, 20 September 2010
The Reserve
I wanted to do a review on a band that makes me feel like I may be their only fan. The Reserve probably has a fan base that consists of mothers, sisters, best friends, and an occasional girlfriend.
This band consists of (or consisted of, drummer may have left) three teenage boys. This now duo of a group are named Christian and Forrest and I am guessing are now open for a drummer. This is an instrumental band with ambient, 80's rock/metal influences but also a latin vibe. Being from San Antonio there is an obvious Mexican culture base that is being reflected through the Reserve's musical endeavors.
I eat this stuff up, if I can hear a band like Mahavishnu Orchestra sing in Spanish I'm going to love it. Oh hello The Mars Volta! OR when Beirut recorded that album under "RealPeople" that was influenced by his stay in Mexico. Bexar Bexar and his spanish guitar, this stuff makes me melt. So when I saw a song called Guitarras De Mi Alma I was sold. Hello what's this? I like it.
Downloaded their 3 track demo with their decently lengthy songs, the shortest song being 8 1/2 minutes. :))) This demo sounds like three young boys are jamming out while recording while the music sounds very improv it can also be impressive. I have listened to the recordings a few times and jut it on repeat and relax. Unfortunately Guitarras is not on their demo but it is on their myspace so I suggest heading over there to give it a listen. These kids aren't really on the scene, maybe they're just starting out or maybe they don't want to be playing shows. They got to go school in the morning, homework might be piling up. Anyway I really like these kids they may not have the most original sound but it's something different for our scene.
They opened up for Deer Vibes about a month ago and it was a show I unfortunately missed, it sounded promising. So I can in no way judge their live performances only their recorded sounds. I enjoy this band and hope for their prosperity.
Download Demo Here.
This band consists of (or consisted of, drummer may have left) three teenage boys. This now duo of a group are named Christian and Forrest and I am guessing are now open for a drummer. This is an instrumental band with ambient, 80's rock/metal influences but also a latin vibe. Being from San Antonio there is an obvious Mexican culture base that is being reflected through the Reserve's musical endeavors.
I eat this stuff up, if I can hear a band like Mahavishnu Orchestra sing in Spanish I'm going to love it. Oh hello The Mars Volta! OR when Beirut recorded that album under "RealPeople" that was influenced by his stay in Mexico. Bexar Bexar and his spanish guitar, this stuff makes me melt. So when I saw a song called Guitarras De Mi Alma I was sold. Hello what's this? I like it.
Downloaded their 3 track demo with their decently lengthy songs, the shortest song being 8 1/2 minutes. :))) This demo sounds like three young boys are jamming out while recording while the music sounds very improv it can also be impressive. I have listened to the recordings a few times and jut it on repeat and relax. Unfortunately Guitarras is not on their demo but it is on their myspace so I suggest heading over there to give it a listen. These kids aren't really on the scene, maybe they're just starting out or maybe they don't want to be playing shows. They got to go school in the morning, homework might be piling up. Anyway I really like these kids they may not have the most original sound but it's something different for our scene.
They opened up for Deer Vibes about a month ago and it was a show I unfortunately missed, it sounded promising. So I can in no way judge their live performances only their recorded sounds. I enjoy this band and hope for their prosperity.
Download Demo Here.
Friday, 17 September 2010
This Is Me Rant/ Review
Hanging out with the people I do makes me question some things.
Is Xry the male equivalent to Wunderland?
Am I in any way qualified to write a blog?
Do I really know anything about music? or is this just the ramblings of a fan?
Do I have enough background in music? When I mentioned I liked AOD but their songs were a bit long, my friend said 'yeah must have been listening to the last Mahavishnu Orchestra albums too much'. but I was like, I don't know who that is. looked them up and was like...oh yeah.
I wonder if the only reason the three people that read my blog only read it because I'm semi-cute. maybe silly boys think my smile has charm.
Then I kind of want to be like Brooklyn Vegan and talk about Japanther and Andrew Jackson Jihad. They're not local but they played with local bands. i think.
Seeing both of them made me happy a bunch of nice guys that can appreciate hip hop and make great music.
Oh and Japanther's obvious Rasta influence with quotes from Haile Selassie I famous speech to the UN about Africa, their telephone microphones, what a bunch of cuties (that's a professional term). Alex is living the dream being a vegetarian, Jewish, Rastafarian touring with a band. a cool band.
When I heard the quotes from Selassie's speech I was drawn in, I felt more people were drawn to the music after that song. It was like, wait I know this. Then when I spoke with the members of the band later, and Alex told me he had Rasta influences I was at first like cool me too. Forgetting about that song, until this morning when I was like OH OBVIOUSLY!!!
but $15 shirts? Who has $15 dollars for a shirt, I don't even have $15 for groceries!
Anyway I wonder a lot thanks to my friends, they name drop local bands I haven't heard or heard of. or dislike bands that I think are pretty good.
Do I only say certain bands are good because I'm friends with some of them?
Is Xry the male equivalent to Wunderland?
Am I in any way qualified to write a blog?
Do I really know anything about music? or is this just the ramblings of a fan?
Do I have enough background in music? When I mentioned I liked AOD but their songs were a bit long, my friend said 'yeah must have been listening to the last Mahavishnu Orchestra albums too much'. but I was like, I don't know who that is. looked them up and was like...oh yeah.
I wonder if the only reason the three people that read my blog only read it because I'm semi-cute. maybe silly boys think my smile has charm.
Then I kind of want to be like Brooklyn Vegan and talk about Japanther and Andrew Jackson Jihad. They're not local but they played with local bands. i think.
Seeing both of them made me happy a bunch of nice guys that can appreciate hip hop and make great music.
Oh and Japanther's obvious Rasta influence with quotes from Haile Selassie I famous speech to the UN about Africa, their telephone microphones, what a bunch of cuties (that's a professional term). Alex is living the dream being a vegetarian, Jewish, Rastafarian touring with a band. a cool band.
When I heard the quotes from Selassie's speech I was drawn in, I felt more people were drawn to the music after that song. It was like, wait I know this. Then when I spoke with the members of the band later, and Alex told me he had Rasta influences I was at first like cool me too. Forgetting about that song, until this morning when I was like OH OBVIOUSLY!!!
but $15 shirts? Who has $15 dollars for a shirt, I don't even have $15 for groceries!
Anyway I wonder a lot thanks to my friends, they name drop local bands I haven't heard or heard of. or dislike bands that I think are pretty good.
Do I only say certain bands are good because I'm friends with some of them?
Monday, 13 September 2010
The Cove
Playing at The Cove usually means playing for tips. The Cove usually has people that want exposure for really small time or starting out/unofficial bands. I think of their open mic night where anyone with a guitar can sign up and sing a couple songs if they'd like. But when I went to the Cove this passed Thursday the situation was a bit different. Although I had never heard of this band, and they had a tip jar, I assume this band was a big deal. Hailing from Sydney Australia this country band was talking about their next single entitled, Texas.
Now, I know they're not a local band but the Cove is legit local and a great hangout. I went there for Vegan Thursdays, where this local, sustainable, organic friendly restaurant/laundry mat/car wash has a vegan "special" on the first Thursday of every month. This special is in addition to their already vegan friendly menu. The Cove frequently has live music from open mic night (as I a fore mentioned) to touring bands (such as this one). Every time I've been there someone has been playing. The Cove is a real casual dining experience, very picnic with your friends and family feel to it. They are famous for their fish tacos and SOL food and their eco friendly environment. SOL food I mentioned earlier as Sustainable, Organic, Local. Plus they have a full bar with wine tasting and beer tasting days.
In their single Texas, Chucks Wagon (the name of the band), mention The Cove, San Antonio, Texas Country singers and the Texas Country genre. I am familiar with TX country so it is refreshing to go back to a different genre and sound. Thanks Chucks Wagon. Oh and just in case, CW will be back in San Antonio soon, so check back at their tour dates if interested.
the cove
606 W. Cypress
San Antonio, TX 78212
Usually open late, until 11 on most nights.
Except Monday where they close at 3.
Now, I know they're not a local band but the Cove is legit local and a great hangout. I went there for Vegan Thursdays, where this local, sustainable, organic friendly restaurant/laundry mat/car wash has a vegan "special" on the first Thursday of every month. This special is in addition to their already vegan friendly menu. The Cove frequently has live music from open mic night (as I a fore mentioned) to touring bands (such as this one). Every time I've been there someone has been playing. The Cove is a real casual dining experience, very picnic with your friends and family feel to it. They are famous for their fish tacos and SOL food and their eco friendly environment. SOL food I mentioned earlier as Sustainable, Organic, Local. Plus they have a full bar with wine tasting and beer tasting days.
In their single Texas, Chucks Wagon (the name of the band), mention The Cove, San Antonio, Texas Country singers and the Texas Country genre. I am familiar with TX country so it is refreshing to go back to a different genre and sound. Thanks Chucks Wagon. Oh and just in case, CW will be back in San Antonio soon, so check back at their tour dates if interested.
the cove
606 W. Cypress
San Antonio, TX 78212
Usually open late, until 11 on most nights.
Except Monday where they close at 3.
Wednesday, 8 September 2010
Xry Tour Kickoff
As you may tell, I tried to do this video a few times.
So I might've said the same thing over and over in most of them, note the joke about my heels.
but I they are all different.
All 7 are pretty cool.
I want to say of all the (maybe creepy) things I found on the internet. from a basic google search. I did not know, that Michael Swellander wrote for backbeat magazine. and I should've because he writes a lot and I've seen him at shows before. and my friend told me he did, but I didn't realize it was the same person. Anyway. because he writes for Backbeat, I really really really considered not posting this entry. He probably has a red marker and is marking all over his computer screen right now. (who loves comma splices? I DO!)
So just click read more.
So I might've said the same thing over and over in most of them, note the joke about my heels.
but I they are all different.
All 7 are pretty cool.
I want to say of all the (maybe creepy) things I found on the internet. from a basic google search. I did not know, that Michael Swellander wrote for backbeat magazine. and I should've because he writes a lot and I've seen him at shows before. and my friend told me he did, but I didn't realize it was the same person. Anyway. because he writes for Backbeat, I really really really considered not posting this entry. He probably has a red marker and is marking all over his computer screen right now. (who loves comma splices? I DO!)
So just click read more.
Sunday, 5 September 2010
Pedicab/Eets Feats
The other day I went to Pedicab Monday. Every Monday Pedicab bar has ladies night before 11pm. This ladies night includes vodka shots and dollar off selected beers meaning, for those interested, ladies receive a free shot as they walk in, every Monday except this past one of course.
Pedicab is a really casual cyclists bar, family friendly in the heart of southtown, right next to blue star district. Also, on Monday they have 10 cent wings. I don't care about this being vegan and all but others are like "OMG 10 cent wings!!!!111one".
Anyway I'm going to Pedicab Mondays with a friend and I noticed the hip-hop dj is outside...strange they usually keep him in the sauna (aka inside). Oh this is another reason I go on Mondays it is hip hop night. I really enjoy the resident DJ there and the atmosphere of the bar. We go inside and the shots bucket/container is not there…darn. Bought an overpriced beer for me and my mate then noticed a band was setting up on the stage inside. Oh how cool we’ve casually showed up to a show. So, this was a punk show with a lot of big name local bands including Sticky Bandits and Nightmare something, I don't remember. We only stayed for one band though and it wasn’t either of them. It was a group from Austin/San Antonio (according to their myspace) called Eets Feats. I went to lengths to find out their name.
Obviously this is a punk band that I have never heard of before. I am not in the punk scene and I usually only see bands that I know personally, so it makes sense that I am unfamiliar with this band. I prefer to do reviews on bands that I don’t frequently see that’s why I have haven’t done a review for Hydra Melody, Grasshopper Lies Heavy, Daytes, Sohns, Deer Vibes, Tryptic, I don’t know who else. But I see those bands all the time.
So this punk band, which isn’t part of “my scene”, consists of three high school looking boys. They sound like a typical band of this genre. A loud sound, screamy vocal, and a solid beat. I felt that I could get lost in the beat, and I did, for the alternative was to listen to my friend complain. She didn’t like the Pedicab’s relaxed atmosphere; she prefers the bustle of The Flying Saucer. Anyway it reminded me of my hardcore days and getting lost in the energy. The moment they started everyone stood up to watch them play; people there were very loving, friendly, really enjoyed the band. In contrast to the shows I frequent that are very pretentious and people are trying to like or dislike the band more than the next person. It’s a different feel and a refreshing take on a show. Although I, in most cases, do not like punk music I would go see this band again. For the crowd and the band.
Pedicab Bar & Grill
415 E. CEVALLOS
San Antonio, TX
Pedicab is a really casual cyclists bar, family friendly in the heart of southtown, right next to blue star district. Also, on Monday they have 10 cent wings. I don't care about this being vegan and all but others are like "OMG 10 cent wings!!!!111one".
Anyway I'm going to Pedicab Mondays with a friend and I noticed the hip-hop dj is outside...strange they usually keep him in the sauna (aka inside). Oh this is another reason I go on Mondays it is hip hop night. I really enjoy the resident DJ there and the atmosphere of the bar. We go inside and the shots bucket/container is not there…darn. Bought an overpriced beer for me and my mate then noticed a band was setting up on the stage inside. Oh how cool we’ve casually showed up to a show. So, this was a punk show with a lot of big name local bands including Sticky Bandits and Nightmare something, I don't remember. We only stayed for one band though and it wasn’t either of them. It was a group from Austin/San Antonio (according to their myspace) called Eets Feats. I went to lengths to find out their name.
Obviously this is a punk band that I have never heard of before. I am not in the punk scene and I usually only see bands that I know personally, so it makes sense that I am unfamiliar with this band. I prefer to do reviews on bands that I don’t frequently see that’s why I have haven’t done a review for Hydra Melody, Grasshopper Lies Heavy, Daytes, Sohns, Deer Vibes, Tryptic, I don’t know who else. But I see those bands all the time.
So this punk band, which isn’t part of “my scene”, consists of three high school looking boys. They sound like a typical band of this genre. A loud sound, screamy vocal, and a solid beat. I felt that I could get lost in the beat, and I did, for the alternative was to listen to my friend complain. She didn’t like the Pedicab’s relaxed atmosphere; she prefers the bustle of The Flying Saucer. Anyway it reminded me of my hardcore days and getting lost in the energy. The moment they started everyone stood up to watch them play; people there were very loving, friendly, really enjoyed the band. In contrast to the shows I frequent that are very pretentious and people are trying to like or dislike the band more than the next person. It’s a different feel and a refreshing take on a show. Although I, in most cases, do not like punk music I would go see this band again. For the crowd and the band.
Pedicab Bar & Grill
415 E. CEVALLOS
San Antonio, TX
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
Jungle Noize
BandEra productions is a fairly new production company here in San Antonio. I always want to promote small business and anyone I know who works hard to be known and established locally. That's why I feel partially drawn to talking about Andrew Maley (Junglenoize), James Wells(HOaX productions) and Robert Salinas (Blackbird Sing), it also helps that i know their girlfriends/wives who tell me about all the sacrifices they make to be part of the SA scene.
So, as I mentioned BandEra Productions is the product of Andrew Maley, the bassist of Jungle Noize. Maley dips his hands into many projects and activities, while going to school full time and working he has three bands and this production company where he sets up shows for his bands and friends. In particular I want to mention this passed show on August 27th in Helotes.
The lineup was Sohns, Fareview, Jungle Noize then Hydra Melody along with live painting on two very large canvases. Each canvas had it's own artist, so both painters were painting their own side to make a full picture. The painting ended up being two gods, a sun god and a moon god fighting over the sacrifice of a man, a man who's proportions were 10 times that of the people carrying him. This painting will be the feature of an upcoming art show that will have both artist's works. The show was very entertaining, well put together, in a comfortably sized venue, not too big but big enough to house more people than were there.
Jungle Noize is a jam band but with a direction. Honestly, here is what I remember of their set, there was a lot going on. There was a light show, a video camera, man taking pictures, tall drunk guys standing in front, and a shirt that can be scribbled on with a lazer (I can explain more about that last bit later). Oh yes and I remember these amazing lyrics, "this is not the one, oh no" and "this is the one, oh yea" haha I'm not criticizing the band they obviously do not focus on lyrics at all. Vocals are not really a big element in Jungle Noize as opposed to the musical variations they try to produce through chords instead of words. Lyrics are actually absent in most of their songs anyway because they jam? Typically the words Jungle and Noise produce a thought of a different sound than the band produces. Think Tarzan running around in the rain forest, this scene would have "jungle noises" bongos, fast beats representing a heart beat, maracas representing leaves rustling and none of this is present in our Jungle Noize. Our Jungle Noize is more like Metallica on acid, they think "oh yea we're a metal band" somewhere in the middle of their songs then change their band to a funk fusion sound. This is a truly fusion band with their surfer singer, hippy bassist and I can't quite classify brothers, guitarist and drummer this band has an element for everyone.
Oh about the lazer shirt, it's weird. they painted a shirt and this guy has a lazer that will scribble on the shirt. so people would get the lazer and scribble whatever on the singers shirt, but then it just fades away. I don't really get the point of it but it was a cool effect for the show.
So if there is an event hosted by BandEra productions, a flyer made by HOaX or a song by Blackbird Sing I recommend it be checked out. Local San Antonio represents building up San Antonio's music scene and local scene through independent business. Word of mouth is the best exposure, support local sa.
So, as I mentioned BandEra Productions is the product of Andrew Maley, the bassist of Jungle Noize. Maley dips his hands into many projects and activities, while going to school full time and working he has three bands and this production company where he sets up shows for his bands and friends. In particular I want to mention this passed show on August 27th in Helotes.
The lineup was Sohns, Fareview, Jungle Noize then Hydra Melody along with live painting on two very large canvases. Each canvas had it's own artist, so both painters were painting their own side to make a full picture. The painting ended up being two gods, a sun god and a moon god fighting over the sacrifice of a man, a man who's proportions were 10 times that of the people carrying him. This painting will be the feature of an upcoming art show that will have both artist's works. The show was very entertaining, well put together, in a comfortably sized venue, not too big but big enough to house more people than were there.
Jungle Noize is a jam band but with a direction. Honestly, here is what I remember of their set, there was a lot going on. There was a light show, a video camera, man taking pictures, tall drunk guys standing in front, and a shirt that can be scribbled on with a lazer (I can explain more about that last bit later). Oh yes and I remember these amazing lyrics, "this is not the one, oh no" and "this is the one, oh yea" haha I'm not criticizing the band they obviously do not focus on lyrics at all. Vocals are not really a big element in Jungle Noize as opposed to the musical variations they try to produce through chords instead of words. Lyrics are actually absent in most of their songs anyway because they jam? Typically the words Jungle and Noise produce a thought of a different sound than the band produces. Think Tarzan running around in the rain forest, this scene would have "jungle noises" bongos, fast beats representing a heart beat, maracas representing leaves rustling and none of this is present in our Jungle Noize. Our Jungle Noize is more like Metallica on acid, they think "oh yea we're a metal band" somewhere in the middle of their songs then change their band to a funk fusion sound. This is a truly fusion band with their surfer singer, hippy bassist and I can't quite classify brothers, guitarist and drummer this band has an element for everyone.
Oh about the lazer shirt, it's weird. they painted a shirt and this guy has a lazer that will scribble on the shirt. so people would get the lazer and scribble whatever on the singers shirt, but then it just fades away. I don't really get the point of it but it was a cool effect for the show.
So if there is an event hosted by BandEra productions, a flyer made by HOaX or a song by Blackbird Sing I recommend it be checked out. Local San Antonio represents building up San Antonio's music scene and local scene through independent business. Word of mouth is the best exposure, support local sa.
Friday, 27 August 2010
This is Me
I made this vlog and in hindsight thought, well maybe there are other music blogs and they just don't promote. like me. Or maybe I'm just that much out of the loop. Either way.
I know this entry is probably unnecessary. who does a vlog on why she has a blog and why she writes a certain way??? Me. Obviously. Uhm, the background music is Marcus Rubio. I think the song is called So Many Reasons for Satellites. or something of that nature. I hope it's not too distracting it just makes me more comfortable to have music on in the background. and uhm, I know it might look like I just woke up from a nap. and that's because I did.
and Joe for Xry suggested I start a twitter, possibly for promotion purposes. and I first I completely rejected this suggestion but now I'm considering it. Since how else am I supposed to let people know that I've updated.???
Illustrations
Illustrations, sound like a band I would kind of like. I know I just did an entry, talking about "hardcore" or metal music and about how I don't like it, I'm over it, whatever. Well Illustrations, from San Antonio of course, identifies themselves as "hardcore/Indie" alright, I can see it. These boys have song titles that include "Runaway" and "Violence" that might make a person, run away or be violent. It's a 5 piece band, all male, that all look fairly young.
I wrote some notes at the show (this is something I've never done before) and I noted things like, I would really like this minus the vocals.During their first song I had welcomed the music by telling a mate of mine, ''I like this 0%'', and somewhere in throughout the show that changed to, I like this 50%. I would really like this if it wasn't a "hardcore" band. I can't say why I've never heard this band before, because they sound like a band I would have seen 100 times before but I haven't. In all honesty, I did enjoy this band's live show. I thought the music was tight and well rehearsed. and they seemed like nice guys. This is a big deal, in most instances I will not like a band if I don't like the members, or one member. Case in point Panic the Brave. Blugh.
So after I've told you nothing about the band I end my review. Haha. This band goes loud; the vocals are screamy and incomprehensible. but I'm not saying horrible. Honestly, if everything stayed the same but there were a vocal style change, wow, it would be completely different sound. I was trying to imagine the band as just an instrumental band and I enjoyed the notion of that as well. My notes went something like
"Although I understood nothing of what they said...I might've enjoyed it minus the singer"
"Band went hard"
"illustrations"
"They are a bunch of cuties"
"If they were an instrumental band I would love them"
"Die...Die Die"
"More than hardcore minus the vocals this would be a hXc musician band" (I don't know what I meant by that last part, since even with their singer they are a "musician band" I think I just meant ...I don't know the word. a non-vocal band)
So this is why I don't take notes. It's pretty bad. I remember this San Antonio band called Antares Sky, that I was IN LOVE WITH back in high school. I'm kind of feeling the same vibes here, I really liked them for a screamy/singy band they were catchy and I would listen to them in the shower.
Uhm this might be their only video. I recommend people come out to see them though, this video has no justice. Although according to their myspace, they will not being have another show until October. at the 1011. Uhm, also I want to make a note that as a whole I think it's a pretty good band. I know I put a lot negative emphasis on the vocals but that is the direction this band is going and so far so good. I believe for what they do they are a good band. and better than Brotherhood. of course.
I wrote some notes at the show (this is something I've never done before) and I noted things like, I would really like this minus the vocals.During their first song I had welcomed the music by telling a mate of mine, ''I like this 0%'', and somewhere in throughout the show that changed to, I like this 50%. I would really like this if it wasn't a "hardcore" band. I can't say why I've never heard this band before, because they sound like a band I would have seen 100 times before but I haven't. In all honesty, I did enjoy this band's live show. I thought the music was tight and well rehearsed. and they seemed like nice guys. This is a big deal, in most instances I will not like a band if I don't like the members, or one member. Case in point Panic the Brave. Blugh.
So after I've told you nothing about the band I end my review. Haha. This band goes loud; the vocals are screamy and incomprehensible. but I'm not saying horrible. Honestly, if everything stayed the same but there were a vocal style change, wow, it would be completely different sound. I was trying to imagine the band as just an instrumental band and I enjoyed the notion of that as well. My notes went something like
"Although I understood nothing of what they said...I might've enjoyed it minus the singer"
"Band went hard"
"illustrations"
"They are a bunch of cuties"
"If they were an instrumental band I would love them"
"Die...Die Die"
"More than hardcore minus the vocals this would be a hXc musician band" (I don't know what I meant by that last part, since even with their singer they are a "musician band" I think I just meant ...I don't know the word. a non-vocal band)
So this is why I don't take notes. It's pretty bad. I remember this San Antonio band called Antares Sky, that I was IN LOVE WITH back in high school. I'm kind of feeling the same vibes here, I really liked them for a screamy/singy band they were catchy and I would listen to them in the shower.
Uhm this might be their only video. I recommend people come out to see them though, this video has no justice. Although according to their myspace, they will not being have another show until October. at the 1011. Uhm, also I want to make a note that as a whole I think it's a pretty good band. I know I put a lot negative emphasis on the vocals but that is the direction this band is going and so far so good. I believe for what they do they are a good band. and better than Brotherhood. of course.
Wednesday, 25 August 2010
BandEra
As you might know this Friday is kind of a big deal for our music scene. There will be many great bands playing that night at two locations (that I know of) and I wish I could attend both.
First I want to mention Sleepercar, this is Jim Ward's band formerly in Sparta and At the Drive-In, which should be attended just for seeing Jim Ward if nothing else. They are being supported by my best friend's husbands band Blackbird Sing.
Here is a link to one of their videos
It is at the Korova, former Ruta Maya, downtown off E Martin. As I mentioned before I wish I could attend both these shows but I made commitments to go to this BandEra Productions show conveniently the same day.
Jungle Noize and Hydra Melody are the big acts drawing me in.
Sohns
Fareview
We the Granada are also big San Antonio names that will hopefully be drawing crowds. Many other acts will be performing as well all the way out at Josabi, in Helotes. The show is 10 dollars for anyone over the age of sixteen. So I really hope that everyone goes out to one of these shows. I will probably be reviewing some of the bands playing at the BandEra show on Friday and Saturday.
I will also mention the poster, just because this is all things San Antonio. The poster is really cool and artsy, it graced an entire page in Backbeat Magazine this passed month. James Wells, a hardworking student, and a friend of a friend's designed it and will be doing the light show as well.
Josabi
17200 State Highway 16 N
Helotes, TX 78023
First I want to mention Sleepercar, this is Jim Ward's band formerly in Sparta and At the Drive-In, which should be attended just for seeing Jim Ward if nothing else. They are being supported by my best friend's husbands band Blackbird Sing.
Here is a link to one of their videos
It is at the Korova, former Ruta Maya, downtown off E Martin. As I mentioned before I wish I could attend both these shows but I made commitments to go to this BandEra Productions show conveniently the same day.
Jungle Noize and Hydra Melody are the big acts drawing me in.
Sohns
Fareview
We the Granada are also big San Antonio names that will hopefully be drawing crowds. Many other acts will be performing as well all the way out at Josabi, in Helotes. The show is 10 dollars for anyone over the age of sixteen. So I really hope that everyone goes out to one of these shows. I will probably be reviewing some of the bands playing at the BandEra show on Friday and Saturday.
I will also mention the poster, just because this is all things San Antonio. The poster is really cool and artsy, it graced an entire page in Backbeat Magazine this passed month. James Wells, a hardworking student, and a friend of a friend's designed it and will be doing the light show as well.
Josabi
17200 State Highway 16 N
Helotes, TX 78023
Saturday, 21 August 2010
Brotherhood
If you're in the music scene, like i sort of am, you tend to meet a lot of drunks. Drunk guys or drunk girls that are so into you for that moment, then NEXT!
This is the beginning of me hearing about "Brotherhood". Some drunk got my number and shot me a text and after my brutal rejection proceeded to text me saying that if I wanted to support the local music scene to go see his band sometime. and I'm thinking, Do you know who I am? Of course I support local music, just not you're music. I actually said I only listen to good bands. But I've been especially bold and rude lately, so the statement is typical and witty of something I would say.
So I went to their profile and saw they are metal and trash, i mean thrash.If you can't tell, I'm not impressed. Their myspace is all black and red, oh how hardcore. I honestly do not hear anything remotely original with this band. With lyrics like "Calling out you’re lost till stars bleed the sky until I take the blame", Here's what I don't like about them aside from their juvenile over used cliche lyrics, typical metal sound and black and red myspace, I feel like this music doesn't strive here anymore. When I first starting going to shows I lived in a town where everyone started a hardcore metal band and it was all I listened to. So I've heard my fair share of local metal and this sounds like local metal with a singer and screamer. A static Lullaby anyone? or maybe like Finch just not as appealing.
[note] Please don't take this as me being overly bias because of my interaction with one of the members of this band. I considered not writing this review at all because I have a slight bias against this genre of music as a whole. I think if this band had more to offer, something unique for the SA scene and not just trying to sound like every other metal band that already exists perhaps I would be less harsh.
Well here's a video for your viewing pleasure. Be your own judge and give them a chance, they were on the cover of EDGE Magazine.
This is the beginning of me hearing about "Brotherhood". Some drunk got my number and shot me a text and after my brutal rejection proceeded to text me saying that if I wanted to support the local music scene to go see his band sometime. and I'm thinking, Do you know who I am? Of course I support local music, just not you're music. I actually said I only listen to good bands. But I've been especially bold and rude lately, so the statement is typical and witty of something I would say.
So I went to their profile and saw they are metal and trash, i mean thrash.If you can't tell, I'm not impressed. Their myspace is all black and red, oh how hardcore. I honestly do not hear anything remotely original with this band. With lyrics like "Calling out you’re lost till stars bleed the sky until I take the blame", Here's what I don't like about them aside from their juvenile over used cliche lyrics, typical metal sound and black and red myspace, I feel like this music doesn't strive here anymore. When I first starting going to shows I lived in a town where everyone started a hardcore metal band and it was all I listened to. So I've heard my fair share of local metal and this sounds like local metal with a singer and screamer. A static Lullaby anyone? or maybe like Finch just not as appealing.
[note] Please don't take this as me being overly bias because of my interaction with one of the members of this band. I considered not writing this review at all because I have a slight bias against this genre of music as a whole. I think if this band had more to offer, something unique for the SA scene and not just trying to sound like every other metal band that already exists perhaps I would be less harsh.
Well here's a video for your viewing pleasure. Be your own judge and give them a chance, they were on the cover of EDGE Magazine.
Friday, 20 August 2010
Xry
San Antonio comes out with a band a week. I would have to say that the flavor of the summer is Xry though. A many local bands have played a many shows this summer and don't get me wrong they are good bands, but Xry appeals to a wider crowd it's dancy, sing along, energetic.
San Antonio natives Joe Vega and Joseph Caceres, you might remember from Reader (2004-2007) are now these electro boys armed with keyboards, guitars, computers and fat heavy beats. San Antonio's current "IT" band has released their 6 track cd on August 18th. A fun show for the summer, their shows have been accompanied by a wall of people encircling the band that they will fall into, push dance with and crowd surf on. I would not compare their live performance to their cd sound.
For 7 dollars you can hear for yourself a hand painted, with seven layers of paint, debut from Xry. Even better for those same 7 dollars can provide you with a cassette. I found the cassette to be a better deal (provided you have a tape player) and a different sound than the cd. The tape also provides mp3's for your comparing pleasure. September 1st marks the duos tour kickoff so come out dance, buy stuff, support local music and the hip scene.
San Antonio may love them and they may reply, as Joseph said, "I love you too, but I still think we should see other people" so help them out by hitting up the 1011, San Antonio's own hot house, on 9/1/10.
San Antonio natives Joe Vega and Joseph Caceres, you might remember from Reader (2004-2007) are now these electro boys armed with keyboards, guitars, computers and fat heavy beats. San Antonio's current "IT" band has released their 6 track cd on August 18th. A fun show for the summer, their shows have been accompanied by a wall of people encircling the band that they will fall into, push dance with and crowd surf on. I would not compare their live performance to their cd sound.
For 7 dollars you can hear for yourself a hand painted, with seven layers of paint, debut from Xry. Even better for those same 7 dollars can provide you with a cassette. I found the cassette to be a better deal (provided you have a tape player) and a different sound than the cd. The tape also provides mp3's for your comparing pleasure. September 1st marks the duos tour kickoff so come out dance, buy stuff, support local music and the hip scene.
San Antonio may love them and they may reply, as Joseph said, "I love you too, but I still think we should see other people" so help them out by hitting up the 1011, San Antonio's own hot house, on 9/1/10.
Cream by XRY from Christopher Elliott Suniga on Vimeo.
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