10 Oct 09

"...we're going to make this quick - we have to pee...." Machinegun Mojo

It was hot fun and cool rock music flowing throughout the Elbo Room, blogspotters! And SouthSide was ready to party all night long. Her good friends, Konniption Fit (from Detroit, MI), were celebrating the debut of their newest CD, Balistic. Helping with this momentous event, bands like Riot Inside, Machinegun Mojo, and Innerfall were invited to put everyone in a party mood. Also included in this packed lineup was Jinx Never Sticks and the female duo, Level 5.

Unfortunately, SouthSide missed Level opening the lineup however she was lucky enough to receive a copy of their 2-track EP. She thoroughly enjoyed the duo's unique yet haunting vocals behind the acoustic/pop rock sound. One small note, the Elbo Room was their first live show and the audience was very receptive to their set. This reviewer's planning a full review soon. For more information about Level 5, visit Mel and Joanna at www.rivenrecords.com or www.myspace.com/level5girlmusic. Also SouthSide highly recommends checking out Jinx Never Sticks (www.myspace.com/jinxneversticks). Besides rockin' the stage with a phenomenal Hendrix cover, guitar fans will love the rhythms and riffs which thrilled and amazed this reviewer. Definitely expect a full review on this band soon. Also be on the lookout for a new EP by Jinx coming in the Spring 2010.

Time to party, my blogspotters, Detroit style with Konniption Fit. This Michigan trio brought back their energized punk/hardcore rock back to the Windy City for their CD release of Ballistic. There were lots of guitar rock and energy on stage to get the audience moving. Jason (guitar/vocals) and Amber (bass/vocals) thrilled the room with their unique guitar style and performances. SouthSide loved their song Rush Hour that had her feeling the frustration of being stuck in downtown traffic. Konniption even brought along some of the funk rock solely for this Chicago show. Want to feel sexy and dirty at the same time? Listen to their song, Ego Trip, and watch out for the many fast and slow tempo riff changes. Such a combination made it one hot number, blogspotters. The highlight of this set was Jason's smokin' guitar solo which led into the next song, Erase. This reviewer suggests snagging a copy of their latest CD and cranking up the volume to feel (as well as hear) that crazy Detroit rock sound. Fore more information, visit Konniption Fit at www.konniptionfitband.com, www.facebook.com/konniptionfit or www.myspace.com/konniptionfit.

Now it was for SouthSide to get her mojo going with her good friends, Machinegun Mojo. And the secret to their rockin' mojo is (drum roll) chorizo tacos, according to Doc Popz. Well on Saturday night, this band was mucho caliente (very hot) and spicey while on stage with their wild guitar rock sound. Seriously, blogspotters, you will enjoy the variety of mojo's rock flavor during their performances. From southern and blues to a bit of honky tonk, these guys bring a little of something and everything to keep your mojo flowin' all night long. They even had Konniption Fit experiencing the wondrous power of Machinegun's mojo magic (try saying that 3 times) during their set. Performing songs off their Fundraising For the Devil CD, SouthSide was already rockin' to her favorites, Nobody's Hero and Devil on the Radio. There was so much mojo going, it got the band hungry again for more (what else) chorizo tacos at the end of the show. Even closing with Hot Damn wasn't enough for the mojo fans in the audience. SouthSide highly recommends everyone getting their mojo checked with Machinegun Mojo soon. For more information, visit these hot guys at www.myspace.com/machinegunmojo.

Being a little different may have been the understatement of the night for Innerfall. However, SouthSide had a difficult time comprehending the gist of their rock sound. In her honest opinion, the difficulty lay within the band itself. Front man Jon had vocals which too soft to be taken seriously as a part of a hardcore guitar rock band. He needed to project more emphasis in to the lyrics ...more screamin' agnst ...more something to pump life into Inner's songs. SouthSide suggests releasing those inner rock demons. And she also noticed his vocals were going at different tempo than the rest of the band. At times they had to play catch-up to his speed and singing style. This made the guitars out of sync with the drummer as well as the lead out of sync with everyone. This reviewer advises Innerfall in revamping either their rock sound and/or image. The audience needs to feel and believe that they're hardcore guitar rock band with the right sound and look. Sadly this band neither to make SouthSide believe in their music. For more information, visit Innerfall at www.innerfall.com ro www.myspace.com/innerfall.

The riot wasn't inside the Metro or Congress Theatre Saturday night but it was definitely at the Elbo Room. Good friends, Riot Inside, closed out the rockin' lineup and they were ready to pump life back in the basement lounge. Technically speaking, they were ready to begin a revolution that wouldn't be televised, blogspotters. And it's always live ...loud whenever this band performs. Nothing was skimmed from Riot's loud rock performance. This band pumped the basement with so much energy and music that you actually felt it curdling inside you. Yes, you could say it was very intense especially during Suffer and King. Riot's currently working on a new 4-track EP and expect this song, Wicked Games to be included. SouthSide loved the angst and metal tone that had her head banging. She highly recommends everyone joining the revolution that is Riot Inside. For more information, visit www.riotinsidemusic.com or www.myspace.com/riotinsidemusic.

Support local music, blogspotters

SouthSide

06 Oct 09

Interested in forming a band but don't have a clue where to begin? Then attend a New Music Business Seminar. One was recently held in Chicago on October 6th at the Park West. This day long event was the "only conference dedicated to the business of music" according to co-founder, Tom Silverman. He also reminded all participants during his opening speech that "...all of us [in the music business] are here to service the artists." Gone are the old ways of power and control in this business. Instead, it's all about collaboration, creativity, networking and making connections. Today, a band's success depends upon its members' willingness to make it happen. Technically speaking, it's the age of the D.I.Y. (Do It Yourself) bands.

Keynote speaker, Michael Spiegelman (Yahoo! Music), briefly spoke about how a band can attract traffic to its site and how a new artist buys attention without spending any money. He gave very good advice as well as ways of differeniating one's self from the many other bands. Mr. Spiegelman recommended artists to treat their passion as a business but still enjoying and doing what they love.

This conference was divided into four very informative sessions as a guide for any band/artist to follow in becoming successful. Session One featured a quick run-down of the new music business and what it entails for today's artists. Interesting topics such as how to make a unique impression and advice about creating an effective band webpage were discussed. Session Two dealt with band exposure, marketing and promotions. Panelists advised using fans, family and friends in getting the word out about your music. And remember - there are no shortcuts in this business either. It takes dedication and hard work to succeed.

Session Three was about the creativity within the new music business. It's all about being creative and having something unique ...originality is good too. This reviewer wholeheartedly agrees with that one hundred percent. Other topics briefly discussed were image, branding, and the show. Bands/Artists were encouraged to take risks while maintaining a good personality. Session Four's Reaching That Magical 300 Mark concluded the conference with tips from Tour: Smart author, Martin Atkins. He offered unique and fun strategies to participants such as effective ways of selling merch stuff to expanding your fanbase. More importantly he advised in the end "...make cool stuff..."

Well, it may have been a long day however it was very enlightening experience for this reviewer. A lot of ideas, information and advice was shared giving everyone the ins and outs on how to be a successful (independent) band/artist. She highly recommends attending this seminar and/or one similar to this in your area.

Support your local music scene

SouthSide

30 Sept 09

In these tough economic times, it's hard to find good entertainment at a fair and reasonable price. Check out the Double Door's solution the next time you're in Chicago - FREE shows! Yes, that's right - you can still can get a free show without breaking your budget. Here's how it works - certain shows on their monthly schedule are reserved as Rock-n-Roll Bailout performances. It's a fun way to relieve that stress your wallet is experiencing while enjoying the best of what's out there in local music. Many of SouthSide's friends have graced the stage during one of these shows. Bands such as Mr. Russia, 7 Day Sonnet, Meqqa and Inn Cinema ...just to name a few. And believe it or not, this reviewer never turns down a free show. Free is the new black today. Recently her good pals, Everyday Celebrity, were the latest addition to perform on a Bailout lineup. For more information and/or when the next Rock-n-Roll Bailout show will be happening, visit the Double Door site at www.doubledoor.com.

Want to meet a celebrity? Say hello and meet SouthSide's good pals simply known as Everyday Celebrity. However make no mistake - their rock sound isn't everyday ordinary either. Promoting their new CD, Something's Missing, this band wasted no time opening the lineup by blasting the audience with thunderous guitar rhythms. Boy, did it ever get SouthSide's heart going as their music surprised her with sudden chord and riff changes. Taking this reviewer from one extreme to the next at times. Fans enjoyed the energy in which these Celebrities performed even while taking the momentum down a notch for a couple of songs. For example, listen to their song wonderfully titled Beautiful. With a name like that, don't expect it to be a rock ballad - no it was the direct opposite. Instead this song pumped a lot of guitar rock sound with a fast-paced tempo. Yet when it was time for a ballad, the energy still remained in tact yet it allowed Ryan's vocals to shine despite being a bit under the weather. During certain songs, he was able to make you feel the emotions off the lyrics especially in songs, While I Wait and I'm Through. This reviewer highly suggests her blogspot readers in giving this local band a listen. Snag a copy of their Something's Missing CD and tune into track 1 ( I Believe in Me ) and track 5 ( Scream ). For more information about Everyday Celebrity, visit them at www.everydaycelebrity.com or www.myspace.com/everydaycelebrity.

Support local music and artists wherever you are....

SouthSide

26 Sept 09

"....monogamy is dead..."

Hey, my blogspot readers, this Chicago machine was makin' some serious noise recently at the legendary Cubby Bear. Now into its second year, Chicago Noise Machine inducted six new members expanding the current list of nine to a proud fifteen. It was already a party atmosphere when SouthSide arrived. Each band was ready to rock the stage to a possible sellout crowd like it predecessor did last year. And just to be clear, the Chicago Noise Machine does not consider itself to be an elitist group. They have an open door policy promoting as well as supporting other local bands who work hard in the music scene. In other words, anyone is welcome to join. For more information about Chicago Noise Machine, visit them at www.myspace.com/chicagonoisemachine or www.chicagonoisemachine.com.

Newest inductee, Aktar Aktar (www.myspace.com/aktaraktar) opened this nine band lineup with a rockin' bang! SouthSide recently saw them a week before at Reggie's Rock Club performing in front of a packed crowd. The audience enjoyed this band's unique flavor of rock/alternative jammed with a touch of country and blues. Meanwhile, Visionaire (www.myspace.com/visionaireband) literally blew away the crowd with its twist of neo-soul/R&B/funk fusion. There was an eclectic mixture of groove, rock and lyrical hip hop smashed within their music too. This had the crowd including SouthSide dancing during their performance. Camera (www.myspace.com/camerachange or www.cameraband.com) is no stranger to the CNM scene after having rocked the Congress Theatre during the I AM Fest earlier this summer. Rock fans will enjoy their intense performance especially watching the bassist move about and across the stage. There's no way to contain the energy pumping from this band. It can get very wicked with its heart-pounding psychedelic/emo/dark rock sound.

Here's another band that's no stranger to the CNM either. However in SouthSide's opinion, Phat Cats (www.myspace.com/wearephatcats) brought the show to a gradual crawl. This reviewer noticed they performed the exact playlist as they did for the CNM band battles and I AM Fest. She highly suggests its time to spice up the list by adding a few surprises not heard before. Current CNM members, Bullet Called Life (www.bulletcalledlife.com or www.myspace.com/bclrock), 72 Hours (www.72hours.us or www.myspace.com/72hours), and Echo Son (www.echosonband.com or www.myspace.com/echosonband) held down the middle of the lineup. Members, Karl (of front man for Lucid Ground) and Stephen (front man/guitarist of Reverie) had rousing performances when joined with Bullet Called Life on stage. The audience went wild when many current and new CNM members joined this band for the closing song. Meanwhile 72 Hours was celebrating a CD release as well as saying "goodbye" to their long-time drummer, Ben. He certainly deserved the rousing applause at the close of this set when he took his final bow on stage. And let's not forget the sexiness that rocked the Cubby Bear either. Echo Son and Brian Bender (front man of A Birdsong Valentine) jammed together with lots of sexy moves and gut-busting screams to tear down Clark and Addison.

In between sets, good friends, JaGoFF (www.therecordindustry.com or www.facebook.com/jagoffproductions) were on tap to remind the audience about the serious impact the Chicago Promoter's Ordinance would have on the local music scene. This duo, with a new EP coming out soon, encouraged everyone to continue supporting the scene and help join the fight of keeping the ordinance off the books. Closing out the night's fantastic lineup was A Friend Called Fire (www.myspace.com/afriendcalledfire) and Along The Parallel (www.myspace.com/alongtheparallel). AFCF literally set the Cubby Bear stage on fire by their awesome guitar rock sound. Their song, ironically titled Untitled, definitely impressed the avid guitar rock fans with hardcore riffs and sudden chord changes. ATP, meanwhile, introduced new bassist member, Nemo, and guitarist member, Pep (Elbo Room's cutie on lights) to the audience. As always, this band jammed extremely hard from beginning to end in the early morning hours.

Overall, it was an induction of diverse members to the CNM community and SouthSide highly recommends her blogspot readers giving each one a listen. She encourages one and all to support their local bands - lots of local talent doing it for themselves without MTV, or any recognizable big name company.

Peace,

SouthSide

24 Sept 09

"...we're from IN..." - Philpot

"...Yeah - corn!"

Hey, my blogspotters, it's a double shot of the Elbo Room for more fun and music! SouthSide's on tap once again rockin' with Losing Scarlet and old friends from IN, Philpot. Included in this lineup was Paper Thick Walls and Westbury.

Feeling a bit under the weather couldn't stop Jodi and Losing Scarlet from kicking off their mini tour with a bang. This reviewer once again enjoyed the haunting mystique of Jodi's vocals. At times, she made us feel the angst and frustration as well as a soul pining for a love that was never there from the lyrics. Yet to hear the lyrics like that, my readers, you also needed to feel the music too. That's where the heart and soul of Losing Scarlet connect so nicely. A good example of this would be their Blondie cover Call Me in which this band gave the song an edgier metal tone than the 80's disco sound. SouthSide loved the metal feel and take of this cover version making it quite popular among their fans during Scarlet's performances. Besides performing other songs off their current self-titled CD, they debut two new tracks from their upcoming EP due soon. In With This We Fight, SouthSide found her new rock anthem to bang her head to. It was a little rough around the edges but it will get better the more they include this song as part of their playlist. In Shameless Prayer, the gradual build up in the intro led the audience towards a hardcore metal rock that they could sink their teeth into. And trust SouthSide, this didn't satisfy them ...they wanted more of this rockin' band. Losing Scarlet fed their hunger with another new song, Learning to Bleed which had many heads banging to the music. This reviewer highly suggests snagging a copy of their current CD and recommends listening to Philiphobia as well as Foresaken. Seeing them live is even better, my readers. For more information about Losing Scarlet, visit them at www.myspace.com/losingscarlet.

Plenty has changed since SouthSide's first review of Philpot ...and wow, what a stage presence and new rock sound! This reviewer was literally blown away by the band's guitar rhythms and riffs pounding her ears. You could feel the excitement and electricity surging from this band's unique country/alternative/rock combination that will get your feet moving. She suggests that you think of John Cougar during his Mellencamp days when it rocked the music scene. The highlight of Philpot's set was when they performed The Absence of Color. This ballad never once lost its energy with the guitar sound taking the momentum and tempo down a notch. It was an excellent way for the audience to feel the pain and heartache off the lyrics. Yet Philpot impressed this reviewer with Foglights, a song that tapped into some serious Fogerty guitar themes. Their rock demons were certainly let loose to run wild and free throughout this performance especially during the song, Jesus On a Chain. It became an instant audience favorite that made everyone feeling the anguish and pain before they closed with Stolen Time. Rock fans in are encouraged to snag a copy of their CD, Hate Writes Better Than Love or better yet, see this band live. SouthSide guarantees you won't be disappointed. For more information about Philpot, visit them at www.philpotmusic.com or www.myspace.com/philpottheband.

Support the local music scene, my blogspotters,

SouthSide

23 Sept 09

Energized for guitar rock ...razor sharp and loud - that's how SouthSide describes this performance by her best bud's, Sister Switchblade.

Recently they rocked the Elbo Room as part of a band battles. Performing a few songs off their new EP, plenty of ears were blown away by their fast paced guitar rhythms and sound. SouthSide enjoyed the thunderous momentum this music created which at times left her breathless begging for more. This was some serious "man balls" rock music here, my blogspot readers, which has to be performed loud, fast and down right dirty ...slashing you like a switchblade. Listen to songs Run Like Hell and Little Miss Cocaine (Pts 1 & 2 as listed on the 4-track EP). These were two good examples of Sister's sound that literally set the basement lounge ablaze with fiery music. You not only heard it but felt each rip-roaring riff note by note. If you like your rock a bit raw and stinkin' dirty, then you should listen to Dead Man's City ...simply some hot and heavy sweaty music to get your hips swaying. The only disappointing note about Sister's performance was that it ended too soon. Don't fret, my readers, Sister Switchblade's rockin' somewhere at a venue near you. Demand it if you have to. SouthSide highly suggests snagging a copy of their A Dirty Mind & A Mouth To Match CD. She also advises that you set the volume at the highest setting possible - you need to feel each rockin' guitar riff and percussion rhythm to truly enjoy this EP. It's not wuss rock ...this is how true Southsiders rock. Loud. fast and extremely hard.

For more information about Sister Switchblade, visit www.myspace.com/sisterswitchblade or www.facebook.com/sisterswitchblade.

Support the local music scene, my readers.

SouthSide

19 Sept 09

“…we now know what’s the future for the dead…” The Glide


Hey, Fearless fans, shake your groove thang! It’s time to party and dance the night away. That’s what SouthSide did at her favorite place on the Southside. Reggie’s Rock Club went from its typical rock statue into one huge Euro pop disco scene on Saturday night. The party atmosphere was set on high as fans packed this popular venue for The Glide’s CD release show. The stage itself was electrified with the rockin’ sounds of electronic/pop/rock from the featured lineup. The Glide invited their close friends, Aktar Aktar, and Professor Kliq, to help celebrate their momentous event with Par Avion opening the lineup.

How does one get everyone into the spirit to a party? They have Par Avion open with an energetic pop/rock performance. Their rockin’ songs and stage presence contained a contagious vibe. No one was standing still throughout the set. It was a wild bout of crazy madness, Fearless fans, near the stage! Par’s flare for giving the audience an energized sound truly kept the momentum going until the very end. SouthSide enjoyed the eclectic pop/synthesized sound that brought out the band’s nonstop energy. Nothing slowed this band down for one minute except having to abruptly end their set. Sadly it was a crowd disappointment since Par Avion’s set barely started. Time did fly by fast when you’re in a dancing frenzy! If you’re looking for some high energy electronic music, SouthSide recommends Par Avion. For more information about this band, visit them at www.myspace.com/paravion.

Performing as part of the Chicago Noise Machine initiation next week at Cubby Bear, SouthSide caught a sneak peek of the latest member at Reggie’s. In her honest opinion, Aktar Aktar’s rock alternative sound didn’t fit on the lineup. However, Fearless fans, SouthSide’s knew a little variety is the spice to all things wonderful. And this band totally added spice and much more to the Reggie’s stage. Aktar rocked it with lots of energy and guitar rhythms which kept the packed venue dancing throughout their set. This band whipped the fans into a feverish frenzy during their song, Wet Dick, Raw Sex. Though not the official title, this song jammed with a titillating sound of Southern fried country rock. Whew, Fearless fans, it was sizzling hot especially during the lead guitar solo. There was another song which featured a unique mix of country and blues. Now, SouthSide could understand why CNM asked this band to join them. If you want rock alternative with a touch of country, Aktar Aktar is your type of band. SouthSide says see them perform on September 26th at Cubby Bear with the other Chicago Noise Machine members. For more information, visit them at www.myspace.com/aktaraktar.

This duo of electronic pop wizardry surprised SouthSide by adding new member to their family. Looking very handsome and dapper in suits, Professor Kliq had a live drummer to accentuate the electronic drum rhythms for their performance. SouthSide thoroughly enjoyed their funky sample of the Sanford & Son theme to open the set. It totally had the crowd dancing into a dancing frenzy. Think the early days of house and underground music when you see them perform, Fearless fans. Professor took something old flipping it into something fresh with funky scratches and samples. However this reviewer was somewhat lukewarm to the new addition to the band noticing that Professor’s electronic/pop truly didn’t need a live drummer. Their unique and eclectic sounds worked just fine without drums performing with them. A good example would be when they performed the Steppenwolf rock classic, Born to be Wild. This reviewer wondered if she knew the drum rhythm or had a hard time keeping up with the Professor’s fast paced electronic sound. The highlight of the entire performance came when they covered a popular song by The Glide. Wow – that’s all SouthSide can say about the song. Professor Kliq gave it an awesome techno spin which closed out their set with The Glide joining them on stage. SouthSide highly recommends those into underground and house music to check out these professors of electronic pop wizardry sound. For more information about this band, visit them at http://www.professorkliq.com/ or www.myspace.com/professorkliq.

Now it was time for the guest of honor to take the stage. After overcoming minor technical difficulty, The Glide rocked out their CD release party in style, Fearless fans. The guys looked very handsome on stage in their party costumes while exciting the crowd with electronic/pop songs off their new CD, A Future for the Dead. During their performance, the band dazzled their party guests by using a variety of video images on the big screen. This gave their songs more definition in imagery and depth …sometimes leaving you to wonder what actually goes on in the minds of The Glide. SouthSide loved how certain songs were paired with classic Twilight Zone or 2001: A Space Odyssey scenes. Even watching the final scenes (when the aliens’ true identities are revealed) from the movie, They Live, had a creepy yet the abstract effect on this reviewer. In other words, she loved the weirdness of their video choices. And what’s a Glide party without balloons? Yes, balloons, Fearless fans, bounced and popped everywhere as fans waved the glow sticks hidden inside in the air. This party was way better than their Metro one less than a month ago. The Glide had a longer set time to be more creative in showcasing their rockin’ electronic/pop/disco music. Sadly, it had to come to an end, Fearless fans …and this band did it under a blanket of stars and infinite space (with some help from 2001: Space Odyssey again). It was a stellar calm before closing with a rockin’ encore. SouthSide highly recommends this popular local band making its mark in the pop/disco/rock genre. For more information about The Glide, visit them at http://www.theglidemusic.com/ or www.myspace.com/theglidemusic.

Until next time, Fearless fans, support your local artists and music.

Peace
SouthSide