March 2013

Hey, blogspot readers, are you feeling a little Irish yet?  Ready to "spring forward" with the Easter Bunny? Well, get ready because March is definitely roaring in like a lion for this busy reviewer with a month full of fun events and shows rockin' the local scene around town.

 

She highly recommends checking out the following dates listed below. Also there are special SXSW events happening in which this reviewer suggests checking out - The Audio Wall Invasion from March 11 to March 17 at Sixth Street. Plus JivedWire will have two featured (non-sactioned) SXSW FREE shows at the Rooftop on Sixth and 311 Club March 13.

Please, remember all events/shows are 21+ unless duly noted.

March 1:
High Noon Saloon (Madison, WI) - SouthSide hits the road! She will be doing her first (ever) On The Town review at this venue along with a bus load of fans to cheer Vintage Blue as the band competes for a spot at Summer Music Festival 2013!

Lilly's - it's Forbidden Knowledge with an after set following the show with special friends
$10

Fizz Bar & Grill - Mayo The Guitarist will be performing at his Dance Guitar show

Ace Bar - Blue Eyed Jesus, Listen, Natalia, and Original Mechanical Mouse will be performing here

Bottom Lounge (upstairs in the Volcano Room) - it's NOCTRONICA, the all EBM, aggrotech, industrial party featuring resident DJ Scary Lady Sarah, C-LOS!, Jesse Restriction and Sarah B with special guest DJ Alpha-Omega (aka Jean Luc)
$7
Sorry this is a 21+ event

Red Line Tap - Scony Mack featuring Dastardly Bastards, Crook County and the MMMs on stage

Cubby Bear (Wrigleyville) - We Killed The Lion headlines featuring Bullet Called Life Uh Huh Baby Yeah and Kazy
$6 adv / $10 door

March 2:
Quenchers - it's a rockin' send off party for The Future Laureates who have two Red Gorilla Fest shows during the week of SXSW in Austin, TX. This show will also have live performances by The Big Deep, River Rising and Kate Quimby

Township - Patrick Krief (of The Dears) will be performing along with Cobalt and The Hired Guns and Darling
18+

Ace Bar - Digeometric will be rockin' the stage along with Apetrio and J.J. & Dre

Congress Theater - Major Lazer with Dragonette and other special guests will be appearing on stage
http://www.clubtix.com for tickets

Double Door - Eat That Plastic, Red Jr, Platform 29 and High Street will be rockin' the stage
$8 adv / $10 door

Fuller's Pub - Mike Felten will be rockin' the stage

Ye Olde Town Inn (Mount Prospect, IL) - Calling Zion, Genus, and Apocrypha will be rockin' the stage
$8

March 5:
LiveWire Lounge - Help say "Go Away, Cancer, No One Likes You!" featuring live music by Crusader, Mikey Classic & His Lonesome Spur, Voice of Addiction and Crosstown Collision. Doors will open at 7- for the Blackhawks v Wild game.
Show starts at 8p

March 6 - 10:
Logan Theater - it's the 20th Annual Chicago Underground Film Fest.
http://www.cuff.org for more details and ticket information

March 7:
SpyBar - SouthSide will be hitting the red carpet again for this Music Industry Workshop event as she attends the Official Ableton Live 9 & Push Launch Party

Reggies - Dot to Dot Management presents Gifts from Enola, The End of the Ocean and Sioum to the stage

March 8:
The Gallery Cabaret - it's the Flabby Hoffman Trio Paints The Town show
11:30p

Cubby Bear (Wrigleyville location) - it's a 90s Tribute show featuring Our Name Is Jonas (Weezer) performing the blue album along with Kid A (Radiohead) and Don't Speak (No Doubt)
$7

Congress Theater - React presents Dillon Francis and Flosstradamus to the stage
Get tickets at http://www.clubtix.com

NEO - it's TRANSMISSION Friday featuring synth, post punk, industrial, disco noir and more music

Stonefly (Milwaukee, WI) - check out Esh the Singer as she performs at the "Looking Back, Moving Forward" show

Bells Brewery - The Twin Cats will be scratching as well as rockin' the stage

Chris' Northland Tavern & Grill - a monthly evening meeting where you can glow and shine at SHIMMER featuring the best of Shoegaze and Dreampop with DJ Scary Lady Sarah and Philly Peroxide
$2 before 10p / $5

Touche - Riot Bear Productions presents: Get A Little Irish In You featuring Germ T Ripper spinning pre-punk to post hardcore Oi to powerpop and more. Plus there will be a raffle benefitting K 9 4 Keeps, a non-profit organization that helps dogs find their forever homes.

March 9 - 17:

Navy Pier - It's the annual Chicago Flower & Garden show and "...discover the Art of Gardening by fertilizing your mind..."

All-Ages

http://www.ChicagoFlower.com for more details

March 9:
House of Blues (Chicago) - House of Blues and React team up to bring one of the wildest electronic acts to the stage - the Israeli duo Infected Mushroom!
17+

Abbey Pub - The Heard headlines a Summer Camp Musical Festival tour event

Cobra Lounge - KOMMANDANT with special guests Against The Plagues, Wormreich, and Atrum Inritus will be rockin' the stage

Fitz's Spare Keys - it's St Patrick's Day Parade after party featuring Too White Crew

J.J. Kelley's (Lansing, IL) - Denial Machine will be rockin' here

The Savemore Lounge - check out The Fed Up with Winter and Food Donation for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. It's a FREE event but do bring a canned food donation while enjoying music by Moddy Zuma, Bremer & The No Goods and Crazee Heart

Lincoln Tap - Taboo Tabu and The Alley Chicago presents Cirque de la Femme Peep show / Freak show featuring Hannah and David from "Movements of Magic", Dollface, Feli Fury and Shana Von Gabor along with returning guest Shannara Bathery.
Hosted by Jenna Dalgety
DJ - Peter Propaganda

March 10:
In US - spring ahead your clocks ONE hour

Reggies - Wrecking Ball Productions presents a punk show featuring Doghouse Swine, The Tromatons, Cenobites and Deyv Dee

Double Door - it's a Brit (Tribute) Invasion featuring Deep Purple, Cream, Robin Trowers and Pink Floyd!

Q Bar & Grill - it's a REBELMANN jam session

March 11:
Uncommon Ground (Devon location) - whitewolfsonicprincess headlines featuring The Slowbots
$5
reserve a table for the show at 773 465 9801

March 13:
Old Town Music of Folk Music (at Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall) - The Creole Choir of Cuba will be performing

March 15 & 16:
House of Blues (Chicago) - It's a double pre-St Paddy's shot of Gaelic Storm during their Above The Roses tour!

 

March 15:

Double Door - Black Bridge will be rockin' the stage along with Goodbye Good Sense, Halfmoon Mad, Eleven Dollar Bills and Girls On Bicycles
$10 - $12

The Mid - the legendary Kevin Saunderson along with Magda and rising stars Dusky take over MAYHEM featuring also the regular MID Friday night resident DJ Zebo
FREE with rsvp at http://www.clubtix.com

WLUW (88.7 FM) - at 2p, Nate Zaremba of Jack Rabbit will be on air

The Spot (on Broadway - Bradley, IL) - Digeometric, The Schiavos and Todd Hazelrigg will be performing here

Arcada Theatre (St. Charles, IL) - Sons of Cream will be performing featuring Kofi Baker, Malcolm Bruce and Godfrey Townsend

Three One One - it's Rogue, An Electroswing Cabaret event. Experience an electroswing cabaret like no other featuring electroswing  and Frenchy House by DJs Vourteque and Mr. Automatic with live music by The Ford Theatre Reunion (Lexington, KY) and Environmental Encroachment, live sideshow performances by The Squidling Brothers (Philadelphia, PA) and Pain Solutions (Oslo, Norway), Burlesque, Fire and Dancing by Adela Arson and Lady Lenux. There's a hosted bar featuring cocktails from Grey Goose Vodka (from 9:30p - 10:30p) with guest cocktail artisan and bartender - Chris Heilgeist. Also complimentary massages by French Angels
$10 adv / $15 with password at door / $20 without password
for door location and password - http://www.floorshowevents.com/rouge

Goose Island Wrigleyville - 72 Hrs returns to the stage with John Burrows Project and Jet Black Comedy

March 16:
Congress Theater - React and Silver Wrapper welcomes 1320 Records owners Sound Tribe Sector 9 (STS9) to the stage!

Ace Bar - The Buddies will be rockin' the stage. SouthSide highly recommends checking out videos "All The Beer Is Gone" (her favorite song) and "A Lifetime At Best" on their YouTube page.

Cobra Lounge - The Pietasters, The Crombies, The Vallures and On Your Marx will be rockin' the stage

End Zone Tap - The Schiavos will be rockin' the stage at this FREE show

Red Line Tap - TVR Universal Artists welcome A Memory Down and Screaming For Silence with Another Black Hour and Ament
$5 adv / $7 door

Empty Bottle - The Socialists will be taking family fun to new heights during this all-ages show

Underground Lounge - it's Lair's QFA (Queer Fest America) Birthday Showcase featuring comedians Marcos, Kate Cullan, Darren Marshall and Thomas Bottoms and music with an aftershoz from Tony Jones, Evil Twin Sister, The Katie Hibben Band, Evil Twin and Count Rugen. Come wish hin a "Happy Birthdaze" as well as donate so QFA can keep bringing you everything queer.
$7

March 17:
Double Door - spend your St Paddy's Day at this annual show with The Beer Nuts

March 18:
Double Door - Local Motive will be rockin' the stage with their bluesy rock-n-soul sounds

March 20:
It's the first day of spring!

Double Door - it's a post SXSW/Music Industry showcase featuring Super Happy Fun Club, The Secret State (Baltimore, MA), The Ivorys and Mighty Fox with DJ Miranda Wright
$10

March 22:
Beat Kitchen - Mason's Case kicks off its Cut Our Loses tour featuring A Friend Called Fire, Bambi Raptor and Michael Chorvat

SubT - Shoeshine Boy Production presents Women Who Rock Chicago featuring four of the HOTTEST female-fronted bands - Jess Godwin, Janelle Kroll, Diana Lawrence (with Joe Chellman) and Lady Laura
$10 adv / $12 at door

March 23:
Double Door - Camera's The Panic & The Permanence LP release show featuring Golden State, Cassettes On Tape and Audiences
$10 door / $8 pre-sale

Tiger O'Stylies (Berwyn, IL) - Hot Lips Messiah, Mandatory Abortions, Lunatic Click and AggroControl will be rockin' the stage
$5

March 27:
Tonic Room - React and Silver Wrapper welcomes Lucy Rose featuring local artists Jennifer Hall and Anna Soltys to the stage

March 29:
Metro - The Future Laureates return to the local stage by headlining this show!

Mackey's Hideout - Check out Dead Larry and Digeometric on stage.

March 30:
Bottom Lounge - DVS* with Basic Physics and Kobrakai will be performing here

March 31:
Easter Sunday


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

16 Feb 13 - A Birdsong Valentine

"...I love the sound of my voice..." ~ Brian Bender of ABV during sound check

Warning ...warning ...danger ...danger, Will Robinson! They are back!

Who's back, blogspot readers? The wild, gut-bustin', belly achin' screamin', heavy-hittin' rock sound of A Birdsong Valentine! Yes, ABV fans, the boys are back in town after a long absence from Chicago's local music scene ...and this time Brian and the band are taking NO prisoners either. Believe it or not, it has been nearly 5 years since these party dudes have been on stage performing together yet this time SouthSide won't be in any danger of flying wireless guitar packs. The faces are still the same featuring Chris "Masta" Shen on bass and backing vocals, Oscar Diaz on guitar and backing vocals, Jay of The Branded rockin' on the drums and of course, the mouth screamin' the lyrics Brian commanding the microphone. This was a reunion shows, blogspot readers, to rival all reunion shows as it was held at a packed basement lounge of Elbo Room where long-time (and few newbies) ABV fans were ready to rock out with their favorite band. Moments before the show, SouthSide was lucky enough to snag another exclusive interview with front man, Brian to gain some insight on what brought the guys back and what's on the agenda for ABV in the future.

"...kids love me ...I guess it's the smile..." ~ Brian after another fan says "hi" to him

After repeatedly spelling his name, SouthSide asked ABV's charismatic vocalist to describe the "new" A Birdsong Valentine compared to what it was years ago to he answered "...rejuvenated party dudes to destroy..." and then adding "...we're going to destroy the stage and Jesse [Elbo Room's bartender/venue's heavy metal decorator] will have to build a new stage..." This reviewer heard the whispered rumors that the band was working on or might be working on a reunion show but she did ask Brian what was the real story about their decision to return to the music scene. According to Brian, the guys were having dinner and drinks at Lockdown Bar (located near Thomas and Western) when Lockdown's owner - PJ "Gunshow" Zonis commented to the guys particurally Brian that his "...cover band was nice but it's no ABV..." And that, blogspot readers, got the wheels rolling for ABV however there's a bit of a problem. After calling Adam Powers, Elbo Room's talent buyer, to book the show, Brian and the band had a week to promote it. So, what's a band to do when you don't have Facebook and most people are using it these days for everything? Well, they did the next best thing - the old fashion way. ABV called, texted, tweeted, emailed, etc everyone they knew about the reunion show. Funny thing is A Birdsong Valentine has about 40 friends on Facebook yet has plenty on Myspace (remember that site, blogspot readers?) ...plus they used their Linkedin to promote the show. Brian mentioned it's nice because "...[we're] playing rejuvenated songs written 5 years ago ...and [many] are not recorded ...also we had to look at old videos too..." to prepare for tonight's show.

Though fearing only 3 people would show up, to SouthSide Brian optimistic as he glanced at the door sheet noticing how many had arrived for ABV's set thus far. Still, according to Brian, nothing about the band has changed except drummer Jay from The Branded is now with them. And true to ABV style, Brian already had pissed off Elbo Room management for bringing their own drum kit when the venue supplies a kit for bands to perform on during their sets. "...it has the original ABV logo and drum head..." says Brian. Then, this reviewer asked what could fans expect from A Birdsong Valentine after tonight's show to which he said "...might be doing more shows ...might be recording new songs [like the one Oscar recently wrote] ...might even work on [building their] Facebook fanbase..." He also disclosed to SouthSide that he has found out some people are "sweatin" to ABV oldies (for exampple, the song Sink or Swim) to lose weight. All this done by word of mouth, blogspot readers, to come see their show since he doesn't work at Elbo Room anymore that Brian remarked "...it's refreshing to everyone again..." plus he added "...I can still hit the notes 4 years later..." while saying he won't be on guitar just vocals. To those fans who missed out on tonight's show, here's what Brian had to say "...you snooze you lose ...and you can take that to the bank..." Oh yeah, one more thing, "...I am woman and hear me roar..." Now, it was time to go downstairs and rock out the show with A Birdsong Valentine, blogspot readers.

"...you're the only band I would sleep..." ~ an ABV fan to Brian

"...I'll replace the mic stand..." ~ Brian to Dave Cook, Elbo Room owner

Down there, it was a local star-studded event of other bands like Lucid Ground, We Kill The Lion, Black Bridge, Mason's Case and A Friend Called Fire, lending their support to the headliner, A Birdsong Valentine, along with the many ABV diehards packed in the basement lounge. After a tearful welcome and warming up the ears with a blood-rushing crescendo of hard-hitting guitar riffs and clashing percussions, ABV was back, blogspot readers, and ready to get down to the business of rockin' out this eagerly excited crowd as they opened with Who Lie. And POW! Here's where Brian's ultra cool vocals on the lyrics meets the pent up rage of his gut-busting screamin' that instantly drives the fans wild head banging action. SouthSide hopes the band realized at this moment how much we missed hearing the belly aching screamo amidst the highly intense guitar riffs and drum rhythms while many joined in singing along with the band before moving quickly into one of SouthSide's favorite song, Sink Or Swim - another intense moment where Brian shows off more emotional gut-busting screaming (with some bird calls during the instrumental bridge).  It was truly refreshing to hear those and other ABV songs like Mamma, RIP with You and I Am again rockin' the stage and re-igniting fun memories about this band. This reunion show also featured Lockdown's owner, PJ Zonis performing with the band during Kill Ur Idol where the band grabbed their fans by the balls with lots of screaming and gritty guitar riffs. Fans throughout the show were either singing or head banging to each song soaking up every intense second until the very end ...and still wanting  more after rockin' them with The End. Before officially ending their reunion show, ABV gave them a rockin' version of Shinobi Dragon Ninja, blogspot readers. Overall, it was a hot show seen and reviewed of this local band. Not only were they a rejuvenated rock band but they definitely left their fans wanting more. Hopefully, we'll see more of them throughout 2013 around town.

For more information about A Birdsong Valentine, visit http://www.myspace.com/abirdsongvalentine.

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

15 Feb 13 - Mister 312

"...come in tight ...leave alright..." ~ Karen, Mister 312's massage therapist

Hey, male blogspot readers, SouthSide has found a place specifically tailored for you! This place features the upscale atmosphere of beauty salon within walking distance from your office (if located Downtown Chicago) but without the upscale attitude or price. She highly recommends exploring all the comforts and luxuries offered at Mister 312, "...Chicago's premier barber, beauty, spa..." just for men, during your lunch or after work hours where you can get a "The Michigan Avenue" service - $52 (it includes Shampoo/Condition, Hot Towel, Scalp Massage, Haircut/Style, Paraffin Treatment and Beverage) or "The Rush Street" - $47 (it includes Mister 312's no frills basic Shampoo/Condition, Haircut and Style to keep you on your busy schedule). Plus for young gents ages 13 - 17, Mister 312 offers same service as "The Rush Street" called "The Hancock" for a slightly lower price of $40 ...something to think about when prom season comes around.

Stephen Charles-Kendall with Serena Patrick

This unique place has it all! Besides being a full-scale hair salon, it also features a hot towel shaves (inside a relaxation-type room) to manicures, pedicures, facials and body waxing as well as massage therapy under one roof. And for those celebrity clients who want to be undisturbed while at Mister 312, they offer the same services inside both of their VIP rooms. What truly makes this place totally cool, gents - each oversize Porsche chair (and yes, SouthSide did say "Porsche" leather designed chairs) comes with its own mini TV at each salon station! That's including the VIP rooms too. So you can watch the game and/or check out the latest stock market report while getting expertly groomed by your barber/stylist. With Mister 312, this reviewer, while attending it's Friday night taste party, was told "...it's all about personal service...". Yet, it's not only about taking care of your outward appearance, men. Mister 312 also would like to help you take care of the inside as well with personal training with Serena Patrick (of NBCs Chicago Fire). Serena also played hostess during the event by serving a fantastic lemonade-champagne mimosa mix and Basil Chicken Salad - they were to die for as well as a yummy assorted arrange of fresh fruit with chocolate drizzle.

"...your style IS our expertise..." ~ Mister 312's website


Nora (on the left), Master Sylist and Mr 312's Owner

During this event, gents, a couple of men were enjoying some of the services (for free) that Mister 312 has to offer. SouthSide met Stephen Charles-Kendall of Premier Working Capital Inc who was getting another haircut to which the stylist did a fantastic job of correcting a prior mistake. He was handsomely styled and readied  for any weekend activities he had planned. Another also enjoyed his haircut and though he stated that he didn't have plans for the weekend, this reviewer is probably certain his wife loved the hair grooming he received that night. Then there was Octavio Lopez of Video Productions/Digital Designs partook in the massage therapy by Karen in one of the back massage rooms. SouthSide got an opportunity to chat with this massage therapist before the tasting was over. She asked Karen how she tailors the massages for Mister 312's client to which she replied "...[it] depends on what the client needs and condition ...it's customized to the customer's particular preference..." SouthSide then asked her how does she focus on client's needs. "...I try to keep myself centered..." By doing this, gents, she's prepared to listen with her ears and hands to what you and your body needs during the massage therapy. "...massages kinda set the balance from the imbalance..." she stated to this reviewer. And though it might be a male salon, SouthSide will be returning to try out one of Karen's Swedish massages.

Overall, male blogspot readers, SouthSide found this upscale salon to be more relaxing and friendlier compared to other places she has been and tried. The staff, Serena, senor hosts and stylists present for this particular event, always had a smile on their faces and were ready to assist in anything possible that this reviewer and others needed. This reviewer is definitely bringing her world traveling guy (and other male friends) to Mister 312 as soon as he's able to visit Chicago again.

For more information about Mister 312 and its services including memberships as well as taking a virtual web tour, visit http://www.mr312.com. You can even find and "like" Mister 312 on Facebook or follow them for upcoming events like this tasting SouthSide attended on Twitter.

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide



One On One with Gemini Syndrome

Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide with another exclusive one on one feature with a hot band from Los Angeles currently touring with Mushroomhead! Since being unable to personally review and interview members of the band when they performed at Mojoes recently, this reviewer via email sent her interview questions which were answered by Brian Steele Medina - drummer of Gemini Syndrome. She would like to thank Brian for taking time out of his busy schedule to answer them and their management for setting this up.

SouthSide: Describe Gemini Syndrome's music in five (5) words or less and please explain why you chose those following words to describe your music.

Brian: Illuminating - Heavy - Intense - Melodic - Introspective. Illuminating: Music has the power to awaken us all from with in. Using this as a tool, sonically and lyrically, we try to bring light to ideas that may be in the dark, and focus to things that may not be very clear. Heavy: Sonically, and lyrically, our music channels a depth of emotion and understanding. Intense: Pushing our selves to extremes. Pleasure - Pain… It's how we know we are alive. In our music we create highs, lows, and in-betweens to sonically show the spectrum of life. Melodic: In all music there must be great melody and we keep this in perspective in everything we write. The melody or dissonance of a song is parallel to the harmony or disharmony of existence. Introspective: The finding, is always in the seeking. Our music is easily understood on the surface but also contains depth. The byproduct of this union is the ability to look deeper and come to realizations that wouldn't be possible on just the surface level.

SouthSide: What would you say influences the band's music and/or songwriting style?

Brian: Art inspires life, and life inspires art. Music, art, life experiences all inspire our creative process.

SouthSide: In your opinion, whom would you compare the band to and why?

Brian: We wouldn't really compare Gemini Syndrome to any specific band. Rather we'd compare it to the musical movements of the 90's and early 2000's. There was a diverse selection of sounds with a subtle, underlying themes that bound the bands together. We have taken our appreciation for these movements and the previous influences of these movements and made an effort to evolve from them.

SouthSide: Besides your current release, Pain and Pleasure, which other song(s) would Gemini Syndrome recommend listening? And why?

Brian: Every one of our songs fits a different emotion, so it's hard to say, but we have always gotten great feedback from the songs "Basement", "Resurrection", and "Take This". These songs just seem to resonate with listeners in a way that is unexplainable.

SouthSide: If given the opportunity, which artist (living or dead) would Gemini Syndrome like to collaborate or cover. Why this particular person or band?

Brian: It's hard to answer a question like this with various members having such varying musical interests and tastes. It seems a better fit to let time progress and see what opportunities become available and seize the moment with an influential collaborator than to pigeon hole and limit to just one collaboration.

SouthSide: Currently touring with Mushroomhead, is there a band or artist Gemini Syndrome would like to share the bill with and why?

Brian: Gemini Syndrome would be very pleased to share the stage with label mates Deftones and our friends Five Finger Death Punch.

SouthSide: Does the band have any plans of performing at any music fests like SXSW or something more local during 2013?

Brian: We are currently confirmed for Rock on the Range and Welcome to Rockville. We are in the process of confirming other festivals and will be sure to inform everyone as the details come along.

SouthSide: What's the one thing do you attribute your fans coming back for more Gemini Syndrome?

Brian: Synners (our fans) come back for Gemini Syndrome because our energy asks them to. We welcome them and appreciate their belief in us and always hope to give to them as much as they give to us. This unspoken understanding is what draws not only them to us, but us to them.

SouthSide: I'm curious about what the local scene is like in Hollywood, CA. How would you describe the music that's rockin' the stages? Which genre; is mostly grabbing the music fans attention these days?

Brian: The Los Angeles music scene has always been a melting pot of talent from all over the country and the world. There is definitely an inertia that is constantly pushing. The bands there are all diverse and cooperative with each other. The sounds are varied but cohesive with one another.The energetic and accessible sounds always grab fan attention.

SouthSide: Within the band community, is there strong support and involvement with each other?

Brian: There is definitely a scene living in Los Angeles. There is a community of bands that support each other on and off stage.

SouthSide: Is there any particular band SouthSide should be made aware of?

Brian: There is a long list of bands that we've played with in LA and support. Currently the most active bands are: Thrown Into Exile (http://www.reverbnation.com/thrownintoexile), All Hail The Yeti (http://www.facebook.com/officialhailtheyeti), Butcher Babies (http://www.facebook.com/butcherbabiesmusic), 9 Electric (http://www.9electric.com), Before The Mourning (http://www.facebook.com/BeforeTheMourning), and Consume The Fire (http://www.reverbnation.com/consumethefire).

SouthSide: Any last words, advice, shameless plugs that Gemini Syndrome would like to leave with the readers of this blog?

Brian: There should be no shame for anything you whole heartedly endorse. Take what you appreciate and put it on a pedestal. Remove yourself from any quicksand of negativity that keeps you in place. Always move forward and be the best you can be to yourself and others.

SouthSide highly suggests checking out Gemini Syndrome's current single, "Pain and Pleasure" on the band's YouTube website and the song also is free to download at http://www.geminisyndrome.com. The band will be rockin' out Scout Bar (located in Houston, TX) tonight and then it's off to Trees (located in Dallas) on Sunday. For the full tour schedule and where they will be rockin' at a venue near you, visit their official website or go to http://www.facebook.com/geminisyndrome and click on Tour Dates.

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

One One One with Jason Magicks

Jason Magicks

He's mysterious like the haunting whisper of the wind softly blowing against your ear while excitedly pumping an eclectic rhythmic sounds of hip hop, percussions and more amongst his church followers at his "magick" shows. Hey, blogspot readers, come meet the man and artist behind the persona Magicks - Jason Magicks. Recently, SouthSide was lucky enough to be granted intimate access with this local artist behind the sacred counter of Record Breakers (located upstairs inside Reggie's Music Joint) where she learned more about what's it like being dubbed the High Minister of the Church of What's Happening Now, his appreciation for The Beatles and role model - his father, what turns on the "magick" within his music and much more. Be prepared to be dazzled and amazed by his slight of trickery as this reviewer opens you to his world of Magicks.

After being honored with the privilege of sitting behind the sacred counter of Record Breakers, SouthSide opened by asking Jason to describe himself in five words or less to which she not stumped him but he had to sit and write the words down to envision as he sees himself. In the end, he chose the following words, blogspot readers: "...imbalanced ...obsessed ...passionate ...out-spoken ...reclusive..."  Now, you may be wondering why Jason would use such words to describe himself. "...I don't [like] dealing with people who aren't passionate [especially] the more time I spend with them..." also adding "...I'm learning more about myself..." He stated that his songwriting process helps him thing about his experiences to which he draws from them and it's a well-thought out process as he puts together an album. "...all songs are personal..." to him, blogspot readers, so don't expect him to do a rush job by slapping together songs or tracks. Each song/track, according this artist, has a special meaning that connects him to the sender of the music that he bestows to his followers. When asking him about being the High Minister of the Church of What's Happening Now, Jason gave credit to the publicist in New York for writing his Magicks bio and it seems that gospel of Magick has been spreading because he has seen his symbols at other venues and place around town. According to the artist, "...it's a strange scene..." now that he's witnessing the revival of the underground "cult fever" and its presence is even making waves within the pop/rock scene too. And Chicago isn't immune from this "fever" either, blogspot readers. Jason feels he has started the return of the goth scene but not to its original dark and dreary scene that SouthSide grew up to back in the 80s. This goth revival "...it's more spiritual now than before..." says Jason, "...people are looking for something to connect..." Believe it or not, this is not only effecting the music but the fashion as well to where the original goth fashion is toned down and brought out of its dark moodiness for a bit of color.

So how does one who's the High Minister of the Church of What's Happening Now gain new followers to join his "magick" movement? Well, don't this minister to use the usually tactics of handing out flyers or posting posters around town, blogspot readers. No ...Jason goes for the unusual route with offbeat marking techniques to attract the curiosity in people to come talk to him. For example, he walked around Pitchfork carrying a box that read "Free Kittens" which seemed to work because people were curious and approached him about the "free kittens" to end up learning more about him, his music and upcoming shows. "...personally I would like to say my music is good [but] rather would do something different..." to attract people to me also adding "...most [people] are desensitized to that [ie posters and flyers] ...I watch what people are doing to know what not to do ...there are other options out there ...ways of getting people to come to your shows..."  Jason likes it better when curious people come talk to him instead of him going to them. Now, blogspot readers, SouthSide would like to add a special interesting note about this interview. Throughout the time she was chatting with Jason Magicks, the phone keep ringing in between questions and or anwers of people callling for food orders. There were some hungry people out there not wanting to venture outside on the slippery pavement that Jason suggested Reggie's start delivering but with sexy barechested delivery guys. What a way to not only spice up food revenues but an "out of the box" type of venue promotion as well.

So what makes Magicks music pop? You need to check out Jason influences, blogspot readers, from where he draws some magickal inspiration like Nine Inch Nails (his favorite group), My Bloody Valentine (for the band's sound texture and influence) and 90s Hip Hop as well as other rhythms and percussions. Yet, he also an eclectic and appreciation for other genres and music groups for example like TLC that he will listen to  for a couple of hours if writing a track with some 90s rhythms in it. His appreciation for The Beatles stems from his father because, according to Jason, it's his dad's favorite band and he (Jason) likes their pop structure. SouthSide and Jason spent a good deal of time appreciating how The Beatles created a wide range of music that may have seemed meshed together or incohesive but magically made it sound very listenable especially when they got very psychedelic. That's when music changed and music history was made because it laid the ground work for other bands like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and others after them to start experimenting with sounds, texture and rhythms. SouthSide then asked him what he has heard from others about his music and he replied stating some have compared him to MGMT while others have found him to be Animal Collective-ish (from their early years when the music was a little "weird" and sounds were slapped together) sometimes. And sometimes he has fooled people into thinking it's his music playing when they enter Record Breakers. Sadly, it's not but for the moment, he'll take the credit. Jason does have a goal in which he shares with every local/indie artist - to make money with his Magicks persona. He can see himself on the Billboard Top 40 making revenue but still remain independent. "...there are ways of marketing yourself compared to how it was done 10 to 20 years ago ...[you have] YouTube, iTunes, Facebook, etc ...you can connect with others around the world..."

But there's one personal reason why Jason wants to make a profit off his persona, blgospot readers. He wants to buy his father a house. This artist shared how his father raised him and his two brothers on his own after the death of his mother teaching his sons important values like being self-reliant. "...he's a really good father ...learned a lot from him..." that Jason now see how he was raised has an impact on him and would like to pay him back for all that his father did for him. Recently, this artist began looking into and researching information about licensing and ASCAP (which he never thought of doing before) while mentioning that (record) labels are also learning and researching more about indie/local music and how to tap into the indie music market. Plus he noted that independent artists are learning how to take more creative and originiality control of their music when under a label. Jason did mention to SouthSide that his next album will be centered around nature yet cautioned it would be for people ...but centered on the theme of oneness to whatever we believe in or connect to. "...I believe there are energies ...forces that drive and inspire us..." stating that he's simply the receiver of the message coming from something around him. He said "...imagine a star busting in the key of G or F millions of years ago..." and it's brought to life today, blogspot readers. Perhaps (and it could be a possiblity) that Bach's compositions were thought of and/or written by someone else a thousand of years ago. "...can't say you created the melody when it was probably created or heard before you penned it to paper..." to paraphrase Jason. In the meantime, Jason highly suggests listening to his current release Solstice Lullaby, a follow up to his Equinox but he may or not do tracks about the summer solstice and spring equinox since he's not really into doing what's typical.

Like all good things, the interview had to come an end, blogspot readers, but not before leaving SouthSide with his final thoughts: "...I thought I could do this entitrely on my own ...I can't ...I need people to want it as much as I do ...it could be as small as sharing [my] music with your friends ...expose it if you like ...it only takes three seconds to share on Facebook..." He's not asking for donations since he knows everyone is broke but all he's asking for is a little love for his magick music. Also, Jason would like to add that he has started a live video series where he has bands performing behind the Record Breakers counter. You can find the action and fun here at http://www.youtube.com/breakerrecordsvideos.
For more information about this artist, visit Magicks at http://www.magick.bandcamp.com or http://www.facebook.com/magicks.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

05 Feb 13

Hey, blogspot readers, come walk the red carpet with the rock star of the local scene! Besides rockin' the carpet, SouthSide's networking and mingling with other Chicagoan industry and professionals at this extra special event held inside the legendary Alhambra Palace Restaurant (located within the heart of the West Loop neighborhood).  It was an honor to be standing in the same room with professionals from the fashion, TV, film, music, dance, sports et al industry while attending the Pre-Grammy Awards Music Entertainment Networking  party sponsored in part by Germaine Moody Events. The fabulous ...glitzy event brought out many to interact, connect and re-connect as well as get acquainted with new faces. Usually this type of event is reserved for those in Beverly Hills, CA however the wonderful people at Germaine Moody decided to bring the all of fun, glamour and featured local music talent to Chicago.

Robbie Gold performing

SouthSide had a fun time mingling and meeting others in the local music industry like Lo Rene of D Vision II  Entertainment and Oscar Warren, Jr. (talk show host, music teacher, singer/songwriter) of D'Luvv Records who was promoting another artist, Loretta Lee, and her Billie Holiday show. This reviewer hopes to interview as well as review this artist soon for a future On The Town feature. During the height of the event, SouthSide was able to snag an exclusive with the teen band, RebelMann who won the Chicago Music Award in 2012 and also recently performed at Rock-n-Roll Fantasy Camp Las Vegas in October. The band, brothers Clayton (front man on vocals), Johnathon (guitar/back vocals) and Bryce (drums/back vocals) along with their mom and manager, Julie, were excited and quite humbled to be nominated again in 2013 stating "...it felt really good..." How they got to be at Rock-N-Roll Fantasy Camp was a stroke of luck, blogspot readers. They had nearly completed a tight 9 show (amazingly within 4 days) in Nashville when a represent of R-n-R Fantasy Camp asked mom if they would like to be a part of the weekend adventure. To hear it from the young lads of RebelMann, they were still excited about staying at the fab MGM Grand Hotel by saying "...it was mindblowing..." to this reviewer. They loved the buffet and met rock legends like Rudy Sarzo (whom SouthSide hears is teaching Miles Schuman who wants to join the band as their bassist), Gene Simmons (who according to RebelMann was blown away by the talented young group), David Fishoff (who highly endorses them) and many others.

The biggest honor for this band came when they were invited to open at the legendary Whiskey A Go Go for LA Guns and was asked to return on New Year's Eve to open for the same band again. According to mom, Julie, "...[it seems] I've birthed a band..." yet did add "...it's crazy..." since she's learning firsthand with some back up support from friend Rudy Sarzo and Bruce Kulick (of Grand Funk Railroad) what really does into making a band successful especially in today's social media universe. She's learning how to handle web design to legality issue while being grateful for having such support. SouthSide asked the guys where would they like to perform next to broaden their fanbase. They said they would like to play at Metro, Taste of Chicago and of course the big dance - Lollapalooza as well as the neighborhood festivals like North Halsted Market Days ...anywhere they could be heard as a band.  "...any gig is a good gig..." says RebelMann after describing their shows to this reviewer as "...powerful loud exhilerating entertaining and engaging..." For now, the band is focused working on a debut album that will feature 5 to 6 of the band's best songs after deciding which ones to record out of 12 to 13 songs. SouthSide is looking forward to seeing the lads rock the stage soon at an all-ages event (hopefully) at Metro or Reggie's Rock Club sometime soon but in the meanwhile, she urges blogspot readers to get acquainted with this rising teen rock band by visiting them at http://www.rebelmann.com.

After the exclusive interview, SouthSide also checked some of the local talent featured for the night's festivities and highly suggests checking out the upbeat rhtyhmic, alternative/pop rock (and sometimes soulful R&B) music style of Robbie Gold, blogspot readers. This trio really impressed not only this reviewer with their lively smooth sound but also the Pre-Grammy attendees to which they enjoyed the energy and momentum felt throughout the band's performance. After opening with an R Kelly cover (that featured strong vocal falsettos), Robbie and the band quiekly moved into the title track off his current release - Impact where they totally spiced up the stage with more intense momentum and heartfelt emotions heard during this touching song. Though missing rest of their first performance while interviewing RebelMann, SouthSide didn't have to wait long to catch Robbie's solid second performance which included hot R&B covers of Marvin Gaye's Let's Get It On (boy, was that cover ever SO hot and steamy as well as sexually sizzling on stage) with bits of The Temptations' My Girl tossed in the mix and Bruno Mars' Just The Way You Are to which this reviewer enjoyed this artist's version instead of the original since Robbie took the words and meaning to heart by personalizing the entire song to fit his music and vocal style. Then he truly brought down the house when he sololy performed Michael Jackson's Man In The Mirror where he turned the pop hit into something more meaningful besides personal to him for the audience before moving into another song, Over Complicated, also off the Impact CD with the other members of the band. SouthSide really enjoyed the energy and pop felt within Robbie's alternative/rock sound. It had a vibrant as well as lively beat to keep you dancing and grooving to the rhythmic music.  To hear more by this artist, visit http://www.robbiegoldmusic.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

31 Jan 13 - Beauty Bar Chicago

Hey, blogspot readers, what do you get when you combine the ambience of a hair salon with the atmosphere of a River North nightclub in West Town? Well, you get one of the coolest places to hang out with your friends known as Beauty Bar. This unique place has been in full swing for a couple of years featuring live music and manicures 7 nights a week ...and SouthSide (finally) has ventured through its doors to see what the hub hub was all about.

It's a totally awesome place, blogspot readers, while attending one of it's R. Kelly tribute nights - a Bump & Grindcore Rock-n-Roll McDonald's theme. Yes, there were Happy Meals of free burgers and fries to go around for attendees while featured DJ sets by Moneyworth, Swaguerilla, ALL THE WAY and Danny Leroy got the crowd dancing and grooving to beat all night long. The music was totally hip and bumpin' to do your sexy, best grindcore moves to ward off the chill from your body. This reviewer enjoyed the variety of R & B artists and hits heard during her stay there - from a one-hit wonder by Color Me Bad to R.Kelly's Bump N' Grind and many more. Not many were dancing but once the hip hop/rap DJ set began many were starting to take to the floor around the bar area. Plus GlitterGuts was on hand to snap lovely shots of the attendees and in the shampoo area- video craziness by Hey! Cliche Video Club that featured a classic McDonald's commercial from the 70s!

SouthSide's dinner at Beauty Bar Chicago

Throughout the Beauty Bar, blogspot readers, there's plenty of places to sit and do some serious people watching or chat with your group of friends. SouthSide liked how the owners used old hair dryers booths (don't know they actually work) as seating inside the club. Plus, they had some of the classic hair style wall advertisements decorating the walls to keep that beauty shop ambience and touch. There are drink specials and deals like the martini-manicure special that was running all night long which feature manicurists waiting to spruce up your nails. What SouthSide really liked about this nightclub was how each attendee had their own comfortable style and friendly personality. No one was trying to outdo the other in the fashion department. This reviewer found this scene quite relaxing and didn't have feel she wasn't properly dressed to impress anyone around her.

This reviewer highly suggests checking out Beauty Bar Chicago with friends after work (it opens 5p) or during the weekend where it closes 2a on weeknights and 3a on Saturdays.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide