Dave and I made our way to London via the Oxford Tube bus which is convenient and not too pricey. We were somewhat entertained by strangers Charlie and his mates, sitting behind us. It was difficult not to overhear their excitement and conversation regarding their plans for the evening, which was going to the Snowboarding World Cup event at Battersea Power Station. While they were discussing their evening, we were getting excited too, on our way to the Urban Music Awards.

Bloomsbury is one of my favorite areas in London. It was the first place I stayed when I arrived in England a few years ago. This time of year, the streets are especially quaint, walking along, over the crisp fallen leaves… so I wasn’t too disappointed to find out that although we arrived, press passes in hand, at the Bloomsbury Theatre on time, we were an hour early. So, with some time to spare, we wandered around and found our way to the pleasant Cafe Toscana.

An hour later and back at the theatre, things were bustling and as the crowd made their way into the reception area, we headed straight for the bar…and then proceeded to people watch. A very nice looking crowd indeed, many dressed to the max, girls in short sequined dresses of all colors, guys dressed in suits along with some familiar faces.

One of those familiar faces was none other than Levi Roots! He was up for an award in the Best Entrepreneur category, which I felt was well deserved as we’ve been following his career since his successful appearance on BBC’s Dragon’s Den when he was given funding for his – and my favorite – Reggae Reggae Sauce.

We talked to Levi before the show. He has a new album and video out, and I asked him if he plans to come out with a milder Reggae Reggae Sauce. He said the current sauce isn’t that spicy! He looked great, a sharp dresser, and I was happy to find out that his warm and friendly personality that comes across on TV is the same in person.

Watch Levi Roots – “So Out Of My Mind” video:

After the announcement that the awards show was about to begin, we went into the theatre, found some good seats, and we were ready for the show.

Awards Presenters included:

Comedian Roland Rivron, Aisleyne Horgan-Wallace (Big Brother 7), former boxer Frank Bruno, Paul Danan (Reality TV, former Hollyoaks actor), British MP George Galloway, actress Linda Robson, Christian artists Adam and Matt Brooks and R&B group Cleopatra.

Performances included:

Sons of Soul (SOS) “Candy Girl”; Sway; Wild Sugar; K.I.G Family “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”; Meleka “Go”; Lazee “Hold On”; Dj Luck and Mc Neat “A Little Bit of Luck”; Egypt “In The Morning”; Britain’s Next Superstar singers/contestants and Brick & Lace.

Voted by the public via the UrbanMusicAwards website, winners included:

Best Newcomer: Egypt
Best Radio Show: James Meritt (Kiss)
Best Entrepreneur: Levi Roots
Best Collaboration: Jay Sean ft. Lil Wayne “Down”
Most Inspiring Act 2009 (?) Brick & Lace
Best Music TV Station: Flava TV
Best Jazz Act: Yolanda Brown
Best Album 2009: N-Dubz ‘Uncle B’
Best Producer: Blessed Beats
Best Hip Hop Act: Sway
Best Music Video: K.I.G “Head, Shoulders, Knees & Toes”
Best UK Asian Act: R.D.B
Best Gospel Act: Guvna B
Best R&B Act: Brick & Lace

The founder of the Urban Music Awards Jordan Kensington thanked his mother who was in attendance and talked about helping to get kids inspired at 200 schools and colleges. Children in The Urban Poets vs Double MDO (not sure of the spelling) performed poems about success, and from audience response, Double MDO won the Young Achievers Award.

I hope to get official documentation regarding winners, performances etc. which I’ll publish here on BandWeblogs.com when available, or in the meantime, go to the Urban Music Awards Official website.

Notable Performances / Ones to Watch: Sway; Wild Sugar: hopefully I’m spelling that right – I’m unable to locate their website, but Wild Sugar was fantastic. Three girls singing up front with nine dancers behind them. The main vocalist’s voice was somewhat reminiscent of Ella Fitzgerald, with some scat singing thrown in for good measure. Great to hear young artists singing in that style; Meleka: she has a great voice, looked fabulous on stage in her sparkly silver dress and I really like her debut single “Go”. She pulled Entrepreneur of the Year Levi Roots up to the stage and he good-naturedly danced along with her; Swedish rapper Lazee; Cleopatra: when they presented the Best R&B Act Award, they sang part of a song acapella and announced that they’ll be back in 2010. I’ll look forward to hearing their new material.

The night was fun and entertaining and the setting was intimate. There were some glitches – a couple times when presenters were announced to come out, we were left in complete silence as nothing happened – to then be told that the presenter wasn’t available to present the award. But I guess “technical difficulties” are to be expected at this kind of event.

Also, it was disappointing to see that it wasn’t a full house and I’m not sure if that was due to keeping the awards show more low key this year because of the violence that erupted, as Sway mentioned when he accepted his award, last year at the larger 2008 Urban Music Awards at the O2 arena in London, or if there were other reasons.

I hope that more people continue to go out and support UK artists of this genre, either by checking out live shows and/or buying the music, as there are a lot of talented artists and musicians out there, performing their craft and entertaining audiences.

On our way back home on the Oxford Tube, we were coincidentally reunited with – still strangers – Charlie and his mates, as they sat behind us again and loudly talked about the Snowboarding World Cup and the winners of the event. It was good to hear the results.

For more information, go to:

Invincible Group
Jordan Kensington on Twitter

Urban Music Awards Official Website

By: Jenny May

The album features hit single “Get U Home”, also featured in the movie Sorority Row starring Audrina Patridge and Rumer Willis.

Many fans in the US will already be familiar with Cisco Adler from his recent stint on MTV reality show “Buzzin’” – about the misadventures of Shwayze and Cisco, with cameras following the unlikely pair – Shwayze, the self-described “only black kid in Malibu” and singer/producer and sometimes tabloid “bad boy” Cisco, on their path to stardom.

Although known for his partying ways and celebrity girlfriends, Cisco is also a hardworker and talented musician, and it shows in his music. I’ve been listening to their single, “Get U Home” – it’s a great track, worthy of being cranked up to the max!

Exclusive interview with Cisco Adler:

Jenny May: What kind of things would have to be happening at a party that would make you drop everything to be there?

Cisco Adler: The Rolling Stones playing live and a slew of naked models…other than that, a party is just a party.

When recording, do you always mix your own tracks or do you work with an engineer? Which do you prefer and why?

I work the board when we record. As far as mixing goes, it depends what the song calls for. On this record I mixed half and my buddy Dave Pensado mixed the rest…the song determines all of this. I like mixing but for some tunes I want to have someone with a different ear and background mixing.

What was the last movie that you watched?

Lars and the Real Girl.

Did you like it?

It was Amazing!

If given the opportunity to write a movie script, what would be your ideal genre?

Comedy…and best believe I have a few already written.

Where is one of your favorite places to go to just chill out?

I’m not so good at that. I hate being away from my studio. So I guess I’d say my studio…

Who would be a dream guest to feature on one of your tracks (still alive, that you haven’t had yet)?

Anthony Kiedis, Andre 3000, Rivers Cuomo.

If you have friends over with mixed musical tastes, what would be the first album that you would grab to play for your guests (other than yours)?

F*** em…they are at my house and I’m the DJ. I’d play what I want and hopefully they can dig. Bob Dylan is always good with whatever ur drinkin’…

What is your daily routine when on tour – from morning to night?

Wake up, take a shot, get on stage, take a few more shots, go to sleep…

Watch Behind the scenes video of the ‘Let It Beat’ photo shoot:

Can you break down the writing and production process of “Get U Home”?

Well I wanted to do an uptempo tune with a big pop rock chorus. It started with a sample, but after I threw on all the guitar and drums and synths I took out the sample and liked it better. I spent a few days perfecting the chorus lyric melody and after that Shwayze came in and we hammered out the verses. It’s one of those catchy melodies that sticks in ur brain. It’s sort of an anti-pop song and it’s dirty and clever but still has a huge melody and a pop progression.

Who wrote the lyrics, music, mixed, musicians involved etc.

I wrote the music and the chorus lyrics and made the track. It took a few days to get the chorus vocals right. It’s a catchy pop melody and sometimes those are the hardest to get perfect, but when u do they are magical. I dropped a couple guitar tracks and then had a friend of mine named Beardo (check out his music!) come in and do some more to really fill the chorus up. Then Shwayze and I wrote the verse lyrics together and he got in the booth and layed em down.

Was there anyone in particular that inspired the story behind “Get U Home”?

A gentleman never tells…But it’s a play on words. It’s not that I can’t wait til we get home. It’s actually I cannot wait and we need to go into the bathroom and make love now!

Buy Music:

Shwayze on amazon.com

For the latest music, news and information, go to:

Shwayze Official Website
Shwayze on Twitter
Cisco Adler MySpace
Cisco Adler on Twitter

Happy to receive the Elvis Presley ‘From Elvis In Memphis’ album ahead of release, I made sure to make the first listening of the 2 discs an event worthy of the King.

I invited my listening companion out to the back garden, as the warm afternoon sun was just setting. We poured our drinks and sat back for an evening of classic music.

The tracklisting is conveniently on the back of the discs, however, I decided to refrain from studying the upcoming songs and instead, enjoyed the anticipation of what was to come, with each song.

I’m not the most educated of Elvis fans, which makes this album a treat – I was getting turned on to “new” Elvis songs that I hadn’t heard before, which I would have thought would be a task considering the amount of hit songs that he released such as “Jail House Rock”, “Blue Suede Shoes”, “Hound Dog” and many more. You won’t be finding those songs on this album though. To me, the tracks on ‘From Elvis In Memphis’ seem more obscure, and I would be interested to know exactly how popular these songs were when they were released and how the hard-core fans feel about them. He certainly had a great repertoire of songs.

“Wearin’ That Loved On Look” is a great choice for an opening track. With Elvis’ soulful voice along with the solid, groovy feel of the band and the busy backing vocals, you can’t help but move along to this funky number. The album continues to roll, moving from soul to blues, country, pop and not to forget, love songs.

Some tracks are more playful, like “Power Of My Love” and “Stranger In My Own Home Town” while others have more of a serious tone with visual storytelling, such as “Gentle On My Mind”, “True Love Travels On A Gravel Road” and “The Fair Is Moving On”.

“Any Day Now” was a pleasant surprise, as I’ve heard other versions before, but not Elvis’. His rendition makes me like the song even more. The familiar “In The Ghetto” and “Suspicious Minds” (bonus) are welcoming inclusions. Another surprise was hearing Elvis sing “Hey Jude”, which seemed a touching nod to the Beatles.

The last two songs before the 10 bonus tracks on the second disc – “You’ll Think Of Me” and “Without Love (There Is Nothing)” – slowed down the momentum, but it started to pick up again with the crescendo at the end of “Without Love (There Is Nothing)” and then the second round of bonus tracks kicked in, including “In The Ghetto”, “Suspicious Minds” and “Rubberneckin’”.

The passion in Elvis’ voice throughout ‘From Elvis In Memphis’ is inspiring. He could sing anything and these 2 discs prove it – to me, anyway. There is a lot of music to consume here, and these gems of songs should be given the royal treatment when listening.

—–

Buy Music:

Elvis on amazon.com

Elvis on amazon.co.uk

Press information:

‘From Elvis In Memphis’ celebrates the 40th Anniversary of American Studio Sessions

In January – February 1969, after 13 years of recording studio albums and movie soundtracks in Nashville and Hollywood, the time was right for Elvis Presley (1935-1977) to set foot once again in a Memphis studio. Those sessions at Chip Moman’s American Studios yielded a year-long string of ‘comeback’ hit singles: “In the Ghetto,” “Suspicious Minds,” “Don’t Cry Daddy” and “Kentucky Rain.”

‘From Elvis In Memphis’ : Legacy Edition collects that entire American Studios output, and then some.

For tracklisting and more information about the album, go to: ‘From Elvis In Memphis’ press

Elvis Official Sony Website

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

Chicago’s very own Gidgets Ga Ga has released ‘The Big Bong Fiasco’.

The band is offering a FREE download of their rocking song, “Good Enough”!

FREE download: “Good Enough” MP3

When we first heard Gidgets Ga Ga, we featured one of their tracks on Band Weblogs Podcast Show because we liked their high energy rock and old school sound. Be sure to check out this power-pop / rock band with an edge!

For the latest music, news and information, go to:

MySpace
Gidgets Ga Ga Official Website
Gidgets Ga Ga on Twitter

Here we are, with our very first Band Weblogs Stance Awards, 2009.

One thing often overlooked when it comes to Rock ‘N’ Roll and unforgettable live performances, are the many great stances that we’ve seen on stage over the years.

With the Band Weblogs Stance Awards, there is a certain criteria to fill when it comes to picking the best stances on stage – along with a unique formula that we’ve used to determine our Top 5.

Since funds are limited this year, unfortunately, we were unable to give the winner an actual, physical award, but what they can walk away with, is knowing how high in our estimation they are.

After lengthy discussion and consideration, and having to narrow down quite a few great Glastonbury stances to the Top 5, the decisions were made.

Counting down from 5:

5. Karen O – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
With her, shall we say, interesting fashion sense and loyal fans, Karen O never lets us down when it comes to stage stances.

Website: Yeah Yeah Yeahs

4. Alex James – Blur
During his Glastonbury set, bassist Alex James from Blur played a stand-out performance, but it was his stance that took it to another level. He spent a lot of time standing with both feet on the monitor, looking cool, while continuing to play hit after hit.

Website: Blur

3. Tom Jones
What can we say? He’s Tom frickin’ Jones. It was great seeing the legendary singer at Glastonbury. His voice is so good, it tends to overshadow his stage stances, but he’s able to pull both off with ease.

Website: Tom Jones

2. Gareth McGrillen – Pendulum
The second bass player in the Top 5, Gareth McGrillen from the Australian now British-based band Pendulum was a contender from the start. The band probably played one of the best shows at Glastonbury Festival this year, and it was Gareth’s stance that was a surefire stand-out – and it almost got him to #1.

Website: Pendulum

1. Bruce Springsteen
Talk about unforgettable live performances. Bruce Springsteen blew us away. The band was top notch, playing the classic Bruce Springsteen songs we all know and love, like “The River” and “Born To Run” and the couple of songs that I hadn’t heard before, like “Outlaw Pete”, by the end, I was singing along like I’d been listening to them for years. The band played a 2 hour and 40 minute set, breaking the Glastonbury curfew, which just goes to show the passion and dedication that Bruce has for his craft – and his fans. However, it was Bruce’s legendary stage stances, sometimes reminiscent of Joe Strummer, that got him to #1 on this list, and during the long set, we were entertained with countless amounts of them. 5 stars.

Website: Bruce Springsteen

Michael Jackson has died.

RIP Michael Joseph Jackson – August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009

Michael Jackson – Earth Song video:

So I’ve finally figured out who the mystery guest artist is in the new campaign for MA DAME ROSE ‘N’ ROLL by Jean Paul Gaultier.

1st hint – video: Jean Paul Gaultier Maison de Couture

2nd hint

There have been some hints – a video and picture stills that include: 1234, pink balloons, dancers, the headphones and vinyl record and I’ve had some crazy guesses along the way – but of course in hindsight, it’s obvious now!

The final hint 3 is this picture:

But it was the bonus hint, the egg, that finally gave it away:

I’m confident that Ma Dame’s Rose ‘N’ Roll mystery artist at the Maison de Couture is: French DJ and producer Martin Solveig, with singles that include “C’est La Vie” and “One 2 3 Four”.

Watch Martin Solveig – “C’est La Vie” video:

“One 2 3 Four” video

Jean Paul Gaultier – Ma Dame Official Website

I’m still in the process of trying to figure out who the mysterious artist is in the new campaign for MA DAME ROSE ‘N’ ROLL by Jean Paul Gaultier.

There are three hints.

The first hint was in yesterday’s post – which included a video and the pink numbers 1234 in the photo below:

1st hint – video: Jean Paul Gaultier Maison de Couture

The second hint is the top photo with the record and headphones.

The third hint will come soon.

At first I thought it was a girl, but now I’m pretty sure it’s a guy.

I think it’s a trendy DJ or producer.

Maybe Mark Ronson?

Jean Paul Gaultier – MA DAME Official Website

It’s taken me awhile to get to the subject of Eurovision this year. What prompted me today is that I just heard 2009 winner Alexander Rybak and his Eurovision winning song “Fairytale” on the radio.

Since I’ve been living in England, I discovered the Eurovision Song Contest and haven’t missed a year yet. I love watching the contest for the humor (some die hards may not see it), the costumes and the all around entertainment. With a very open mind when watching, there are even some gems of songs and singers amongst the rough.

Watch Alexander Rybak – “Fairytale”:

One of those gems was Alexander Rybak from Norway. When he started singing that night in Moscow, I wasn’t sure at first, but the more the song went on, I knew we might be on to a winner. And sure enough – it was, and for me, the song still is! Even charting in the UK – and listening to it on the radio is a treat.

“Fairytale” is a great song. You can feel the energy and the passion, the instrumentation is superb – and I just found out that Alexander wrote and composed it. Excellent, even better now. A well deserved winner.

So this means the 2010 Eurovision contest will be held in Norway.

That would be an adventure – going to see the show live…

Buy Music:

Alexander Rybak on amazon.co.uk

Alexander Rybak on amazon.com

Alexander Rybak Official Website
MySpace
Alexander Rybak on Twitter
Facebook

Eurovision Song Contest Official Website

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

What’s happening at the Jean Paul Gaultier Maison de Couture?

I’m trying to figure out which artist MA DAME has chosen to celebrate her first birthday at the Jean Paul Gaultier Maison de Couture.

The ambiance: subtle and electric. Humour and glamour are the order of the day. MA DAME is simply chic… but there is a catch.

For MA DAME has invited an artist to the party whose favourite art is the one of surprise…there are some eclectic, unusual clues. Can you outwit MA DAME?

Any ideas?

Apparently different clues may help to disclose the secret, but they may also throw you off the scent. The clues are in the video – in bright pink!

Here’s a hint:

Watch video:

So far, I’m guessing Madonna, Pink or Lady Gaga or La Roux? Then again, the hands look masculine with no fingernail polish and the shoes look like men’s shoes. Is it a guy? I’m not very good at this! A male singer and dancer who wears makeup?!

There are more hints to come!

Jean Paul Gaultier – MA DAME – Rose ‘N’ Roll – Official Website

Chicago band Inchworm’s latest release ‘Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing’ has been in my iTunes player for a while now, and the tracks continue to shine with each listen.

Inchworm is a band that I feel quite passionately about, as I really like their music, with endearing vocals, top notch songs, quality musicianship – and they seem like a cool group of people!

Someday I’d like to see them play live, but in the meantime, it was a treat to have the opportunity to interview them.

Inchworm interview with Jenny May

Jenny May: It looks like congratulations are in order regarding your song “Waltz Through the Ashes”. Will it be appearing in a film? How did this occur?

Matthew: Thanks, yes it is. The film is called We Believe: Chicago and its Cubs. It is directed by John Scheinfeld who made the documentary “The U.S. vs. John Lennon”. It’s the first documentary to be sanctioned by the Chicago Cubs so we’re hoping it turns out being a big deal. The way it happened is Dan, our bassist, saw an ad on Craigslist looking for songs to be in a contest to be part of the movie. Being a lifelong Cubs fan I said “what the hell” and it turned out that of over 300 entries, ours being the only original songs, fans and web visitors voted both our submitted tracks into the top 5! The director then chose “Waltz…” as his pick for the film. Pretty cool indeed.

You’ve signed up to Twitter. What are your thoughts on the social network? Have you been networking?

Mike: Ah, networking… ya gotta keep up with the kids, right?

Brian: Honestly sometimes it’s annoying as hell. I have a “smart” phone and decided to install the Twitter app. I uninstalled it four days later because of all the pointless “news” that was sent to me. People LOVE talking about themselves. Maybe it’s just the ones Inchworm follows…

Dan: As annoying as it is though, we know it’s a necessary evil. With the amount of time people spend online nowadays and all the information that is forced into their heads, it’s important to keep your name in front of their faces, otherwise they’re gonna forget you exist.

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of yours. Any plans on coming to England to play?

Mike: Thanks again Jenny, we do appreciate it. We’d love to come across the pond and play. However, with the economy the way it is, it’s looking pretty grim. If we do manage to make the trek, you should hook us with an opening spot for the Guillemots.

Do you have any plans on touring the US?

Brian: Kid Rock once wrote a song called “Devil Without A Cause”. One of the lyrics in that song is “I’m goin’ platinum”. This was long before he sold a single record for the major label he was signed to. Inchworm, Inc. has decided to adopt this business model and write some new songs: “Platinum Sunshine”, “Platinum Stuck In My Teeth”, “Platinum Umbrella”, etc. If “Field of Dreams” taught us anything, it was “If you build it, they will come”. We write about platinum, the platinum will come. U.S. touring will ensue. In the meantime we’re gonna keep playing local and regional shows, continue to build our fan base, and branch out from there.

If you could go on tour with any bands/artists, who would it be?

(Heads come together, whispering): Dr. Dog, Wilco, The Shins, Grizzly Bear, Neil Young, the F***ing Stones, Guillemots. Basically any of our influences we’d love to play with.

Are you signed to a record label? Do you have a manager? Would you like a change in your current situation or are you happy with the way things have been going?

Mike: We’re totally independent, but we’d welcome change. Change is good. Anybody who is willing to help us gain exposure and financial independence is somebody who we’d be interested in meeting with and talking to. So if you know anyone who fits that description, give ‘em our number.

How long has the band been together and how did you meet?

Dan: We’ve been together for some time now. We all met through Twitter! J/K. Brian and Matthew have been playing in bands and writing music together since high school and a few years ago through a mutual friend, met Mike as he was between bands. A couple years ago, a buddy of mine was playing a Halloween show with Inchworm as Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band and said they needed a bassist. I showed up and we had a jam, had multiple laughs, a helluva lot of beer, and we all became buds. I joined the band directly after.

How did you come up with the name Inchworm?

Matthew: It’s a long story full of ghosts and hammers, lovers and saloons. Head to the media page for the whole story. It won’t disappoint.

Mike: And if you don’t believe that, it’s also the name of a John Coltrane song.

What is one of the best live shows that you’ve attended?

Brian: Radiohead at Rosemont Theater (2500 capacity) in 1997.

Mike: Recently, Dr. Dog at the Double Door.

Matthew: Neil Young alone and acoustic in 1999 at Rosemont Theater.

What is one of your favorite things to do when not playing music?

Writing music. Enjoying life. Playing video games. Crossword puzzles. Reading. Getting the occasional beer at the bowling alley. Go see our friends play music.

How often does the band practice?

Twice a week for the most part.

What is your song-writing process as a band?

Mike: Matthew and Brian bring in some bones, then the band puts on the meat.

Brian: Nobody likes skinny cows.

Dan: I want to barbecue.

Why the title ‘Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing’ for your latest release?

Matthew: We’d been brainstorming for a few months trying to come up with something that was relevant to our situation. Mike, an amateur semanticist and etymologist, was playing with words and twisted the cliché “wolf in sheep’s clothing” late one night. The more we all said it the more we liked it. It kind of summed up how we felt about ourselves and how we imagine most people thought of themselves. Most people are genuinely good humans finding their niche in a hard world. I mean, nobody wants to be the wolf, but we all know you gotta grow teeth if you want to eat.

How have you been recording music (studio, home etc.)?

Dan: We write and record as much as we can. We recorded “Sheep In Wolf’s Clothing” entirely on our own at a couple different locations, one being Mike and Matt’s home studio: The Holtz ‘en Baugher Ranch. We do a lot of work there with demoing new material and piecing together arrangements and ideas over time. It’s good to have a home base we can play with sounds in.

Brian: Recently we started working again with the engineer who recorded our previous release “Porchlight EP”. Matt Dewine is his name and he runs Pieholden Studios in southern Illinois. The studio is owned by the late Jay Bennett (r.i.p.), and runs strictly analog. We’ve been having a lot of fun with the great selection of vintage gear and odd instruments they have down there, and we’re underway on what we hope will be a new album released late this year. We’ll definitely keep you posted!

All: Thanks a lot Jenny for setting this up and for the support you give us. It means a lot to us. Take care and we’ll talk again soon!

Band Members:
Matthew Baugher ~ Vocals, Guitars, Keys
Brian Morrissey ~ Vocals, Guitars, Keys
Dan Ingenthron ~ Bass, Bkgd Vox, Keys
Mike Holtz ~ Drums/Percussion, Bkgd Vox

More from Inchworm:

- We’re giving away a free download of “Waltz Through the Ashes” in appreciation of the support we got from the fans for a limited time. www.inchwormmusic.com/waltz

- Next show: June 22, 2009 @ Schubas Tavern (3159 N. Southport., Chicago, IL) @ 8pm w/ King Sparrow, The Main Drag

- “We Believe” film premiere: June 12th @ The Chicago Theater (thechicagotheater.com)

Inchworm Official Website
MySpace
Inchworm on Twitter

I’ve been a fan of social networks for awhile now, and over the years have tried a few. Some stuck, some didn’t. Twitter seems to be one that’s sticking. So far so good. I like Twitter. I like it a lot.

By using Twitter as a networking tool, I’ve been meeting some interesting people. Mostly music related because that’s my main interest, but there are also some people that I’m following just because they seem interesting. There are also some tech related twitterers that I follow because I like to keep up-to-date with the online tech industry.

Before I found Twitter, about a year ago, I knew that I wanted something like it. Because I’ve been spending more time lately publishing press releases and other people’s music reviews, my blogging has been lacking. Which is disappointing really, because I do enjoy it. The good thing, though, is that Twitter has allowed me to keep up with blogging – just on a different platform, and with shorter entries. Much shorter. 140 characters per tweet.

So Twitter has helped me to get back on the blogging saddle as well as meeting some cool people. Its become a great place for community. Special almost.

Through Twitter, I was asked by Oxford City Guide (@OxfordCityGuide) to review Swedish band Baskery at The Jericho Tavern in Oxford. It ended up being a great night out and I really enjoyed their music.

In the review, which included a short write-up of local Oxford band InLight, I noted that it would be great to see InLight play as a full band, as that night they were there as just a 2-piece. Well. Lead singer Charlie happened to see this, got in touch with me, and then invited me to see the full band play, which I did, and that then lead to an interview with Charlie for Band Weblogs. That’s just two bands as examples, that I’ve been turned on to because of Twitter.

My latest Twitter story is not affiliated with music – but baseball. I’m following someone (@GallagherMeow) who tweeted that he made a list of his ten favorite Red Sox players of all time. After following the link back to his blog, I noticed, in my opinion, a couple players were missing, so I replied to him on Twitter asking “Where’s Jim Rice and Fred Lynn?” because they happen to be my favorite Red Sox players of all time. He didn’t reply back, but that’s okay…he pretty much answered that question by writing up his own personal top 10.

The next day I opened up my email and saw that: “Jim Rice (Ask14) is now following your updates on Twitter”. I just sat there for a minute and had to digest the information. I re-read the sentence and clicked on the link. I was pretty excited.

I added a message on Twitter – “I can’t believe it. Is that the REAL Jim Rice following ME??? @Ask14″ hoping that I might get an answer.

Sure enough, a couple hours later I received a tweet from the real Jim Rice, “Yes. How are you?”. I was walking on air for awhile after that. Growing up in NH/VT area, when I was very young, Jim Rice was like a hero, along with Fred Lynn. Probably because my dad and my brother really liked them.

So, my “inner child” certainly came out the day Jim Rice unexpectedly got in touch and asked me how I was. Warm fuzzy childhood memories came rushing back, and the feeling of what me as a little girl might have felt like if I had met Jim Rice then.

The meeting wasn’t in person, and some might think Twitter is just a silly site they can’t figure out, but it’s because of Twitter that these wonderful experiences have happened.

Jim Rice – Ask 14 Official Blog

Jim Rice on Twitter

Follow me on Twitter!

Jenny May on Twitter

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

Recently I watched the Smoke Fairies play while attending the Roy Orbison Birthday Party in London. It was great to hear them perform the Roy Orbison song “It’s Over” and their rendition of the track is included on the new ‘Under the Covers’ tribute release which includes other artists performing Roy Orbison songs such as Aruba Red, The Carter Twins, Rooney, Findlay Brown and more.

Smoke Fairies are Jessica Davies and Katherine Blamire and they’re set to release their latest single “Frozen Heart” June 15, 2009. The song has a vintage feel and could easily have fit in with the festivals in the late 60’s. Jessica and Katherine’s harmonies are warm and at times can sound like k.d. Lang harmonizing with herself (which is a very good thing)…but with “Frozen Heart”, the soaring higher voice quickly distracts from that thought. The rhythmic instrumentation and percussion adds another level to the track – dreamy, mesmerizing. Superb.

Watch “Living With Ghosts” video (debut single):

What people are saying about Smoke Fairies:

“Frankly the best thing I have heard in years” – Richard Hawley

“Dark, lustful blues-folk” – Mojo

“Beautifully harmonised, wistful songs … This is enchanting” – The Guardian

“Smoke Fairies are stronger, sexier and more sultry … yet still maintain a fragile vulnerability; ethereally enchanting” – The Times

Smoke Fairies 2009 tour dates:

(Dates and information subject to change.)

15 May Great Escape Festival – Brighton
21 May O2 Islington Academy w/ The Handsome Family – London
23 May The Ent Shed w/ The Handsome Family – Bedford
25 May Wild Hare Club – Herefordshire
25 May The Glee Club w/The Handsome Family – Birmingham
26 May St Davids Hall w/The Handsome Family – Cardiff
28 May The Spiegel Tent w/The Handsome Family – Bath
29 May De La Warr Pavilion w/The Handsome Family – Bexhill
30 May South Street w/The Handsome Family – Reading
31 May Exeter Pheonix w/The Handsome Family – Exeter
4 Jun The Luminaire – Headline Show – London
14 Aug Woolfire Festival – Hampshire

Smoke Fairies MySpace

By: Jenny May – BandWeblogs.com

Archangel single “Do It Again” is set for release 11th May, 2009 on Medical Imprint. It was a surprise to hear Archangel’s cover of the very popular Steely Dan song. It’s the first time that I can recall hearing a UK indie band – or shall I say person – covering Steely Dan, and it’s a great version of the track. Press information below.

Watch “Do It Again” video:

What the press has to say about Archangel:

“Corking, angular art-punk” – NME

“Magnificently overwrought and dramatically fashioned songs that explore the lexicon of love with an epic sweep and neon glow that will remind you of all your favourite 70s and 80s groups while sounding utterly contemporary.” – The Guardian

Archangel releases the new single “Do It Again” through Medical Imprint on May 11th. The song is taken from Archangel’s debut album ‘How To Lose Your Best Friend’ which is due out later this year.

Archangel is the brainchild of Nick Webber, a young man with a strong will and a warped imagination, who spent a year and a half going quietly mad in the wilds of Wiltshire as he recorded his masterpiece aka the soundtrack of his life.

He wrote, performed, recorded and produced his debut album himself in a self-built studio in Wiltshire. The result is a collection of songs which draw influence from sources as wide ranging as Roxy Music, Kraftwerk, The Associates, Motown, Bowie, INXS and Arcade Fire.

“Do It Again”, in fact, borrows from an unlikely source: Steely Dan. “Why cover Steely Dan?” says Archangel. “My friend gave me a copy of their Greatest Hits and I put it on down in Wiltshire and thought, ‘I remember this!’ I immediately wanted to have a crack at it. I thought, ‘F*** it, why not?’”

The video for “Do It Again” is an ingenious, animated affair starring a post-it note and cameos from Archangel himself. It has already received over 50k views on YouTube following a homepage editorial feature.

The single will be available as a CD and Download.

The track listing is as follows:

1. Do It Again
2. Odysseus

“Odysseus” features a musical quotation from Eurythmics and a lyrical reference to Roxy Music, and can also be found on Archangel’s debut album.

Archangel on amazon.co.uk

For more music and information, go to:

Archangel on MySpace

The Charlatans and Just Jack are set to mentor the finalists of Road to V – the UK’s biggest and longest running search for unsigned musical talent.

Watch “Weirdo” video:

With a history of V Festival performances to their name, now on their tenth studio album and famous for a string of hits including indie classics such as “The Only One I Know” and “Weirdo”, The Charlatans will be mentoring the ten finalists of the competition, before two winners are eventually decided by a public vote.

The recruitment of Just Jack and The Charlatans as mentors marks a first for Virgin Media, which has refreshed the format of Road to V for 2009, offering entrants the chance to be nurtured by established musicians for the very first time.

The two winning acts will open up the mighty V Festival, which takes place this summer, in Chelmsford and Stafford on 22nd to 23rd August 2009.

The Charlatans EXCLUSIVE interview with Jenny May:

Jenny May: What are you planning to do as mentor for the finalists of the Road to V unsigned band competition?

Martin: We’re looking forward to basically hanging out and playing with them. It was important to us to find someone who is good enough to open V Festival now – not in 3 or 4 months time.

Jon: For me, when it comes to talking to a band who’s just starting out, it’s really important we tell the truth. We’re not out to give advice necessarily because usually people do the opposite – just tell the truth. It’s a big deal, advice – and the last thing we want to do is be condescending.

So far, which V Festival has been the best one that you’ve played at and why?

Jon: 2008 V Festival was great last year because we headlined. We really like being able to play outdoors. Everyone there was just really nice. Good and decent.

Tony: Yeah, V was great. I also have a special place in my heart for the first Isle of Wight. We had a great spot at Glastonbury one year at dusk.

What tracks/artists have you been listening to lately?

Tim: Wow. Ummm, I’m really liking La Roux right now. They’re sort of an electro outfit. Really great.

How have things changed for bands since The Charlatans started out, compared to bands starting out now?

Tony: It’s a lot easier and a lot harder. Easier because you can sound really great for really cheap, but at the same time there are so many more people all trying to do the same.

Mark: You can do so many amazing things with a laptop. Producing a really quality tune for cheap is really easy now versus when we were starting out, but it still boils down to creativity and professionalism.

What is your songwriting process as a band?

Tim: It really depends on who’s most passionate. We don’t all five of us sit down in the same room and write songs together. Usually it’s a singular idea brought in and…

Mark: Expounded on.

Tim: Yeah.

Who has inspired you the most musically?

Tim: New Order. A band called The Prisoners.

Jon: The Stone Roses. They did sort of a similar thing with mentoring us as we’re doing for bands in Road to V. They really took us under their wing when we went on tour in the beginning of the band.

The Charlatans on amazon.co.uk

The Charlatans UK on amazon.com

For more music, dates and information, go to:

Road To V

Virgin Media

The Charlatans Official Website
The Charlatans on Twitter
MySpace