This week southern California was under a 24 hour warning for a major earthquake. It seems Hunnypot Live! show #351 might be to blame. Hot Tub Johnnie started the night with a set of no "fault" party music. Lauren Reynaldo gave us the shakedown of her musical journey, Roger Street Friedman's seismic rock n roll cracked the pavement, Melanie Taylor made our bodies wave with her dance rock, Michete caused a hip hop landslide with "P" Waves, Breaking Heights gave us tectonic hop n' roll and Tree Machines kept us on their wavelength in their ring of fire. 10-3-16
- J. Gray
A true Los Angeles native, Lauren Reynaldo got her start in music at the age of 18 thanks to a series of right-place, right-time coincidences. She has worked with large catalogs from the likes of Kiss, Marilyn Manson, Jerry Reed and REO Speedwagon, to underground, indie up-and-comers like Moses Sumney and Webster X, all the way to the fast-paced world of production library music.
If you were to drive down a narrow, winding street, in the funky little town of Sea Cliff, New York, you would never expect that there is a world class, state of the art, analog recording studio in the basement of the grey house with the basketball hoop at the end of the driveway. That house belongs to Roger Street Friedman, and that studio in the basement is where he, along with his band and a whole host of special guests (including Amy Helm, Ari Hest and The Masterson’s) are working on the final touches of his new album, Open Road. In fact, there is a lot about Roger Street Friedman that you would not expect in a typical singer-songwriter. Relocated from Brooklyn in 2012, Friedman has made a long circuitous journey, but he’s finally home, ensconced in the studio he dubs “The Playroom,” for its proximity to where his young son and daughter play in the basement of the house he shares with his wife and family.
His latest effort, Open Road, is bold and adventurous, masterfully reflecting a sense of life as an unpredictable and wondrous journey that he strives to embrace fully in his dual roles as artist and family man. These roles inform and inspire his reborn career as a recording artist. “I’m gonna live my life/With all my might/Make the most of everyday… everyday” he sings, as if shouting it to the rafters. The roots of Open Road are steeped in alt-country, folk, blues, R&B and singer-songwriters like Jackson Browne, Cat Stevens, Don Henley and Paul Simon. The 12 songs here contemplate the trials and tribulations of relationships (“Hideaway,” “Tomorrow”), memories of a childhood that no longer exists (“No Place Like Home”), being a father (“A Son Like You”), the loss of a parent (“Gentle Love of a Mother”), the perils of mass-migration (“Better Life”) and going all out to live your life to the fullest (“Shoot the Moon”).
There is something driving Roger Street Friedman, and it’s not money or fame. He writes, produces and plays music because he loves it, and wants to share that feeling with others. With Open Road, Roger Street Friedman continues to prove good things happen to those who wait… and then seize the opportunity.
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Melanie Taylor decided she was going to be a music business success story when she was a little girl dancing to Michael Jackson songs in her home, and she is presently in the process of willing it to be. Awards, chart debuts, high-profile collaborations, accolades and the like are all part of a grand design that she created by sheer force of will. Strong female role models in the music business are peeking out from behind what has held them back all these years. This is happening just in time for Melanie’s rise in the world of pop music. The singer has prepared for her platform through her involvement in organizations such as the P.A.I.N Foundation, 18 for 18 Project Rescue, the Gracie Awards - programs designed to empower women.
It all started with her mother – a single woman who decided she was going to have a child… no boyfriend, no set details of her plan. She spoke her truth into the universe and willed Melanie into being. Later, she built a business empire with Melanie’s step-father through her fortitude. These things taught the budding entertainer some important lessons.
For much of her life, Melanie was the only child of a single mother who was, by all accounts, a wanderer. She found theater provided her with an extension of her family. Melanie says, "I always considered my audiences like my brothers and sisters, since being an only child and moving a lot as a kid, the stage was really my only consistent home". Melanie’s first album's primarily straight pop/dance style is now morphing slightly into her sophomore album's rock-based vibe.” What has stayed the same, is her “feel-good soulful roots as a vocalist" she explains. She has written most of her upcoming album with producer Troy “R8DIO” Johnson, (Jesse McCartney, JLo, Chris Brown, Will Smith,Solange, 2Pac) and plans to release it later this year
Melanie wanted to create a fun, yet empowered, collection of songs, a la that of one of her idols, Alanis Morissette. “I knew all her songs by heart as a kid,” she adds. That kind off forthright, spirited style of songwriting stuck with Melanie and shows up all over her work, worn like a badge of honor.
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Combining venom-filled disses, crass sexual come-ons, and left-field pop culture references with an androgynous gender presentation that is equally inspired by glam rockers, anime villains, and drag queens, rapper and producer Michete is on the fast track to becoming one of hip-hop’s most polarizing and exciting new acts. The dagger-tongued MC is unapologetically queer, delivering punchlines with a genderfluid braggadocio that sets her apart. Drawing influence from a wide range of artists including Kanye West, Peaches, Nicki Minaj, and Kesha, Michete combines a unique lyrical stance and vocal demeanor with chintzy, economic, self-produced beats to create a sound that’s completely unique.
Growing up in Spokane Valley, WA (a city she describes as being a “cesspool of white nonsense”), Michete is a former theater kid who had a natural charisma and an unhealthy obsession with Lady Gaga, honing his performance skills by singing in talent shows, acting in plays, and performing improv comedy all throughout middle and high school. She began dabbling in music around the time she graduated high school in 2010, and in 2014, decided to make a serious commitment to pursuing a career as a rapper. Michete released her debut EP, Cool Tricks, in June of 2015, and received considerable attention and acclaim from journalists and listeners alike, securing a spot opening for recording artist Shamir in Seattle the following September and later appearing on SPIN Magazine’s year-end list of The 50 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2015.
With the foundation set for a successful career in the music business, Michete plans on releasing the follow-up to Cool Tricks this Spring.
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Born on a hundred degree day in the steaming valley of Los Angeles in the summer of 2015. There was no wind, not a single cloud. Just a blinding sun. Like a crystal hole in the never ending sky. At least that's what we remember..." From producer Ozzy Doniz, rapper Zoh and singer Greg Cahn, comes a musical twist of psychedelic sonic showers tangled in trap mixed with velvet rock hooks and grimy soul-baring lyrics called Breaking Heights.
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Following up Wooldridge and bandmate Patrick Aubry’s critically praised debut EP as Tree Machines from early 2015 and the three stand-alone singles coming out in the waning months of the Summer, the band is gearing up for releasing their debut full length album.
After partnering up again with their Producer Mikel Giffin, the band is in the final steps of production for they new album.
“It really is amazing to work alongside Patrick and Mikel,”Wooldridge adds. “Things click so quickly. We feel like we can almost do no wrong creatively, which is an incredible and freeing feeling to have as an artist.”
Tree Machines will also add a few new members to its live act, with plans to play out during breaks in the album recording process.
“It’ll be exciting to fully get back on the road again,” says Wooldridge. “But first we need to get our bearings out in Los Angeles.”
Further explaining the band’s decision to go west, Aubry continues, “Leaving Kansas will probably turn out to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. But I needed it – it’s just too comfortable there. I’d be a fool to say that California has anything different, but at least I know that I won’t be stuck in the whirlpool of Midwest comfort and cheap living. At least I’ll know I tried, and if I fail, I can die happy. Plus, the beach is pretty awesome!”
Aubry sums up his outlook on the band’s future simply, saying, “It feels like we’re just getting warmed up. It feels like we’ve got so much more to write.”
Tree Machines debut full length is in the works
“JackEL”, has been turning heads with his music since the very young of age of 14. JackEL began his DJ career early, spinning in his home town of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. He soon began performing in different cities internationally to build his brand, including “The March Madness Festival” in Atlanta GA; “The Knitting Factory” in Boise, ID; “Tao Beach Club” in Busan, South Korea; “The Revolution Lounge”, “Dirty Blondes”, “Club 21”, “Three Kings Hookah Lounge”, “Tao Beach” and “Ultra Violet” in Las Vegas, NV; “Eccles Conference Center” in Ogden, UT; “The Epicenter” in San Diego, CA; “Club Red” in Tempe, AZ and “Club Congress” in Tuscon, AZ.
As a Producer, he collaborated with well-known Rapper MIMS at the age of 15 on the track “Too Young To Die”, and continues to collaborate with MIMS, who is known for the hit singles “This Is Why I’m Hot” and “Move If You Wanna”. As a DJ he performed in Las Vegas at “Dirty Blondes” in Planet Hollywood. At 16 JackEL moved to Vegas to pursue his musical career. He soon met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and because of his Producer and DJ skills, was invited to be the opening act for them at the “March Madness Festival” in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after, JackEL began an another high profile collaboration with Three Six Mafia member DJ Paul and the two artists have been working on the completion of DJ Paul’s upcoming EDM album.
JackEL has also performed international gigs, playing for two standing room only crowds at “Tao Beach Club” & “Club Kudeta” in Busan, South Korea. After finishing his Canadian Tour of Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC, JackEL began working with DJ Fame, voted ‘The Best Nightclub DJ of Las Vegas 2014’ by the Las Vegas Review Journal and the resident DJ for Hip Hop artist Dizzy Wright, who JackEL also produces original music for. 2015 JackEL Headlined at Las Vegas Hemp Festival along side “Chanel West Coast, Tommy Chong, Afroman & also Dizzy Wright”. Meanwhile traveling back and forth to Jamaica to finish his Smooth Jazz EP titled “Breathe Easy”, featuring Grammy Award Recipient Skip Martin. In 2016 JackEL headlined at “The Joint” inside the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. Also established his Record Label/Artist Collective “FVYDID” who’s members continuously tour internationally.
With so much already accomplished at such a young age, JackELs future is very bright, and contains much more anticipated high quality art.
Unlike Brangelina Hunnypot Live! would never break up with you in the tabloids. Monday night we filed for separation from a droll life and brought entertainment to the masses
Camryn took custody of our ears and hearts (she also wore a cool Queen shirt), Ediblehead fed our faces with a mediation of disco punk, Pega5u5 took flight and took alimony from listeners, Jackel and guests were reconcilable to the audience and Hot Tub Johnnie presided over the whole night with sick beats. 9-19-16
Fueled by the rush of adrenaline that comes from performing live, 17-year-old singer/songwriter Camryn showcases her siren-like voice and straight-talking lyrics with a spunky blend of guitar-driven rock and pop. She began putting her songs on YouTube in 2010 and released a series of independent singles, including 2013's "Lovesick," which earned Camryn the distinction of becoming the youngest indie act to chart a song in the Billboard Top 40 since LeAnn Rimes in 1997. She developed a loyal fan base while performing in front of hundreds of thousands of people during her extensive worldwide touring, including solo shows and opening European and U.S. tours for the likes of One Direction and Cody Simpson.
Now, Camryn returns with a new 5-song EP entitled, New Dynasty. Full of in-your-face vocals, crunchy guitars and epic choruses, the EP co-written by Camryn showcases her evolution into an artist that has not only found her voice, but her power. As the title suggests, there is a new generation poised to break out into the world and Camryn's ready to make her own bold statement.
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The mind-bending, soulfully electro, punk-house-pop of Ediblehead is the culmination of a transformative journey for two musicians: the critically acclaimed Los Angeleno artist Robby Rockit, and the prodigiously multi-talented chanteuse Eva Zeva. The winding path to forming Ediblehead helped both musicians connect to the wellspring of their creativity. The result is infectiously catchy debut album, Animal Lick Stick.
Robby Rockit was the founding member of the lauded space rock band West Indian Girl, which was signed to tastemaking electronic and dance label Astralwerks (Primal Scream, Chemical Brothers, Hot Chip). Eva Zeva was a lifelong singer who kept her vocal talents tucked behind a veil of shyness while she explored fashion and the fine arts. They met at a private party gig West Indian Girl was playing in L.A., and Rockit felt an immediate karmic connection with Eva. The two found themselves reinventing West Indian Girl for that group's third and final album Shangri-La.
Ediblehead was formed to bring music that is bright, vivacious, and playfully dynamic. "There is a childlike energy that informs what we do, it's about letting go and having fun, "describes Eva Zeva. She and Rockit lead us through the twelve tracks on Animal Lick Stick as zany toastmasters with a multitude of techno genres, crazy pop hooks, and guitars meshed with electronica. The album was engineered, produced, and mixed by mastermind Robby at his home studio in Los Angeles, with additional work done at the West Hollywood studio of esteemed producer Matt Sorum (Guns and Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult), assisted by producer/engineer Francis O' Reilly.
Ediblehead performs as a five-piece band with full visual effects and original, out-or-this world costuming to mesmerize fans. "Ediblehead is like a beat-infused candy-colored rainbow with a message of self-belief," says Robby Rockit. "If you let go of fear and doubt, all doors will open up."
With their respective careers, the two brothers, Mr. Rogers and Pharroh had already established a dedicated fanbase. Mr. Rogers over the past few years became a staple in California's electronic music scene, playing festivals (such as headlining slots at Lucidity, Stilldream, and Raindance) all around the area. On the other side of the spectrum is Pharroh, who has made his roundabouts in the underground hip-hop circuit. He's shared the stage with GZA and has gone on to score the soundtrack for the Afro Samurai video game and collaborate with TalibKweli. Eager to connect with a larger audience, they came together and fused their fanbases to deliver PEGA5U5. Their freshman LP The Flock, which featured collaborations with The Fungineers, Joanna, Cellojoe, and more, established a unique sound that left listeners craving new releases. With their hiatus coming to an end, make sure to follow them on their social media links below to keep up with the duo.
“JackEL”, has been turning heads with his music since the very young of age of 14. JackEL began his DJ career early, spinning in his home town of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. He soon began performing in different cities internationally to build his brand, including “The March Madness Festival” in Atlanta GA; “The Knitting Factory” in Boise, ID; “Tao Beach Club” in Busan, South Korea; “The Revolution Lounge”, “Dirty Blondes”, “Club 21”, “Three Kings Hookah Lounge”, “Tao Beach” and “Ultra Violet” in Las Vegas, NV; “Eccles Conference Center” in Ogden, UT; “The Epicenter” in San Diego, CA; “Club Red” in Tempe, AZ and “Club Congress” in Tuscon, AZ.
As a Producer, he collaborated with well-known Rapper MIMS at the age of 15 on the track “Too Young To Die”, and continues to collaborate with MIMS, who is known for the hit singles “This Is Why I’m Hot” and “Move If You Wanna”. As a DJ he performed in Las Vegas at “Dirty Blondes” in Planet Hollywood. At 16 JackEL moved to Vegas to pursue his musical career. He soon met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and because of his Producer and DJ skills, was invited to be the opening act for them at the “March Madness Festival” in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after, JackEL began an another high profile collaboration with Three Six Mafia member DJ Paul and the two artists have been working on the completion of DJ Paul’s upcoming EDM album.
JackEL has also performed international gigs, playing for two standing room only crowds at “Tao Beach Club” & “Club Kudeta” in Busan, South Korea. After finishing his Canadian Tour of Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC, JackEL began working with DJ Fame, voted ‘The Best Nightclub DJ of Las Vegas 2014’ by the Las Vegas Review Journal and the resident DJ for Hip Hop artist Dizzy Wright, who JackEL also produces original music for. 2015 JackEL Headlined at Las Vegas Hemp Festival along side “Chanel West Coast, Tommy Chong, Afroman & also Dizzy Wright”. Meanwhile traveling back and forth to Jamaica to finish his Smooth Jazz EP titled “Breathe Easy”, featuring Grammy Award Recipient Skip Martin. In 2016 JackEL headlined at “The Joint” inside the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. Also established his Record Label/Artist Collective “FVYDID” who’s members continuously tour internationally.
With so much already accomplished at such a young age, JackELs future is very bright, and contains much more anticipated high quality art.
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ZaZa has been active in the music industry since the age of 14 and has headlined and hosted numerous shows around the U.S., including her own west coast House of Blues tour. She has written and released many songs both as a solo artist and as half of the former rap/pop duo Cash and ZaZa. Her passion for songwriting and music doesn’t stop at her own performing. In addition to writing for herself, ZaZa has written successful songs for many reality tv personalities including Asia Monet Ray from Lifetime’s Raising Asia and Toddlers and Tiaras star Eden Wood.
She has also made her way into the commercial modeling world, having been a spokesmodel for Epilator Central, Trailer Girlz TV, and more. Recently, she started hosting her own entertainment and music talk show on WCOBM network Las Vegas.
JackEL and ZaZa will perform the new single "Just Fine".
We know nobody likes you when you’re 23, but we’re sure you’ll love Volume 23 of Hunnypot’s Artist Compilation series!
Featuring tracks by Th' Legendary Shack Shakers, J*LABS, Mark Mallman, Stein Sang, Orphic, and more, this 12 song playlist is the perfect set to tear into tonight, especially if you’re itching to move your feet and shake it!
Oh yes, we'd also love to help you to license these gems...
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Future Funk
Sounds Like: Young Kesha super-charged for the dance floor
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Dream Pop
Sounds Like: A lucidly-dreamy pseudo-love story
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Folk-Pop
Sounds like: Walking through the woods on a misty morning
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Electro Indie Pop
Sounds Like: Coachella 2016
Location: Cleveland, OH
Genre: Hip Hop
Sounds like: The best dance party you've ever been to
Location: Venice, CA
Genre: Dance
Sounds like: An EDM festival in the middle of a busy city
Location: Newcastle, UK
Genre: Experimental Rock
Sounds like: Everything but the kitchen sink
Location: Los Angeles
Genre: Indie Rock
Sounds like: A very nostalgic slow dance
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Genre: Rock 'n Roll
Sounds Like: Bon Scott partying with Guns and Roses
Location: Nashville, TN
Genre: Southern Gothic
Sounds like: Something you might hear on True Blood
Location: Las Vegas
Genre: Rockabilly
Sounds like: A trip to the state fair meets an old drive in movie
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Genre: Rock
Sounds like: Old school indie meets U2
Sabotage used to be a legitimate workforce negotiation tactic. Hunnypot Live! unleashes this tactic every other week, so listen up y'all. Hot Tub Johnnie started by unionizing us with a music set of workforce rhythm and melody. Our industry guest Michael Levine laid out the hard truths of upper management and the workers in music. Cassie Holt and the Lost Souls punched our clocks with sweet rock n roll music, Grand Canyon provided an Americana vacation out west, Cloudtalk gave us a breakroom of clear sky pop music and Kosha Dillz makes his performances feel like a national holiday. 9-5-16
- J.Gray
Michael Levine has been widely regarded as one of the world's premier branding and media expert for the last thirty years. He has represented a record breaking 58 Academy Award winners, 34 Grammy Award winners, and 43 New York Times best-sellers, authored 19 books (including 5 best sellers such as "Broken Windows, Broken Business" and "Guerrilla P.R."), and appeared on countless TV shows as a media expert including regular slots on "Good Morning, America" and "The Today Show" for the last 20 years. His work has also included media council to former presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Born with dyslexia, Levine is also the only person without a college degree to lecture at both Harvard and Oxford University. According to his success as a publicist, Michael Levine has also become a sought after public speaker. And through his career at Levine Communications Office (LCO) he represented many celebrity clients including David Bowie, Sandra Bullock, Michael J. Fox, Demi Moore, Ozzy Osbourne, Prince and Barbra Streisand among many others. Levine even represented the King of Pop Michael Jackson in 93 & 94'!
Cassie Holt and The Lost Souls originally formed in 2013.
Front woman Cassie Holt is a Dallas native who has been singing/songwriting for more than a decade. She started playing open mics in high school, spent many years writing and singing hooks for local hip hop artists, and most recently grew her sound with an amazingly talented group of musicians. Together they create an atmosphere that is unmatched. The chemistry on stage between them is evident and it overflows to the audience. Holt’s sultry vocals fill the room and warm your insides. Her powerful belts grab your attention as the bands incredibly tight performance keeps it. Each member comes from a different style background, adding variety and uniqueness to their sound. Holt’s lyrics have a mature rawness to them that so much modern music lacks, touching on everything from domestic violence to heartbreak. The groups almost comical banter is sometimes turned into impromptu songs on stage. The group has grown together over the last year and hopes to soon reach every household here, and ultimately over seas. Cassie Holt and the Lost Souls have had performances on live television and they have performed at an array of venues including the Dallas Museum of Art, Fair Park in Dallas, the Dallas Arts District's Annual Fall Block Party, and the Dallas Whiskey Festival...and they continue to entertain regularly at a number of various clubs, festivals, weddings, and events.
Grand Canyon is a rock n roll band out of Los Angeles, CA including Casey Shea (vocals and guitar), Jillette Johnson (vocals and keys), Joe Guese (guitar), Adam Popick (bass), Tom Polce (drums), and Matt Pynn (guitar and pedal steel). Formerly all east coasters, the band members migrated to Los Angeles, and created Grand Canyon on the east side of town in 2015.
WHO - CloudTalk is a four member alternative pop-rock band from Northern Los Angeles, who have begun to get some notice on the local scene (105,000+ followers on Vine and counting). With guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocal harmonies, TJ, Gabe, and Jordan are ready to bring their unique chemistry to any size venue.
SOUND - By combining a knack for catchy melodies (think Maroon 5 or One Republic), chasing a big sound quality (think Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, fun.) and infusing a little rock edge (a la Killers, Temper Trap, Neon Trees), you’ll get some idea of the recipe for success that CloudTalk is ready to take to the masses. They also draw inspiration from other artists, and it’s easy to imagine them touring with bands as diverse as Young The Giant, Bastille, Two Door Cinema Club, Foster The People, New Politics, the Naked and Famous, Walk the Moon, the 1975, Passion Pit and The Neighborhood.
WHAT’S NEXT - Despite wearing their various influences on their sleeve, CloudTalk has a sound that is all its own, thanks in part to TJ’s distinct lead vocals and a gift for crafting hooks that stay with you after the final note lingers. With two full album’s worth of material they can play gigs of various lengths and are ready to explode onto the music scene in a big way.
Rami Matan Even-Esh (??????: ??? ??? ???-??), better known by his stage name Kosha Dillz, is an American rapper and world class improv artist that has recieved major attention for his dedication to success. He has played every kind of gig, ranging from shows with Rza of the Wu Tang Clan and Matisyahu, to the Legendary Yo Gabba Gabba childrens show. He is most known for his ability to improv in front of thousands of people an rap in hebrew and spanish combined.
Over the years, there have been very few bands that have been able to develop a solid blueprint for long-term success. Many have tried and failed, while others have gone the distance and remained relevant in this “modern age” of music. Artists like The Rolling Stones, The Who, and Rush are among those elite who have withstood the test of time and continued to perform at the top of their game over careers that have literally spanned decades. Another such band that sits among these time-tested heavyweights is Yes. Founded in London, England in 1968, this progressive rock band has endured everything from multiple lineup changes to breaking up and everything in between over an incredible 45+ year career. I had always heard great things about Yes and their live performances, but never actually got a chance to see them in concert. Instead, I had to rely on their extensive catalog while hoping that the stars would align and one day would be able to catch this iconic band live here in Southern California. Well, I finally got to check Yes off my concert “bucket-list” and got to see them live and in-person on Saturday night.
As I entered The Grove in Anaheim, CA, I could immediately feel that this show was going to be special. The venue was packed, and an electricity filled the air that I had not felt at a concert in quite some time. As the legions of Yes fans waited in anticipation for the show to begin, I could not help but wonder if these guys would live up to my ultra-high expectations (heck, who really does these days?) Waiting for the show to begin, I struck up a conversation with a gentleman who shared with me this was his 118th Yes show (you heard that right - #118!) I could not believe he had been to that many shows (which averages out to be almost 3 shows per year over the bands entire career). After sharing some addition fun-facts about Yes, he told me to strap myself in for an unbelievable night of music. At that very moment, the lights dropped and this sold-out crowd went absolutely crazy. The giant LCD screens began to flash funky psychedelic images (made famous by long-time Yes artist Roger Dean), and the band everyone had been waiting patiently to see was finally taking the stage.
As a short prelude came to an end, vocalist Jon Davison, bassist Billy Sherwood, keyboardist Geoff Downes, drummer Jay Schellen (filling in for the ailing Alan White), and the legendary guitarist Steve Howe all took the stage. After a few brief waves to the crowd, the band was off and running with their 10-minute epic “Machine Messiah”, off of their 1980 classic LP, Drama (which was played in its entirety). Act I concluded with two of my favorite early catalog tracks – “I’ve Seen Good People” and “Siberian Khatru”. Both tracks were clean, crisp, and instrumentally spot-on. What stood out to me throughout the opening set was the cohesiveness of the latest incarnation of this band. It would stand to reason that the complexity of these songs might be challenging to some of the newer band members – especially Davison and Schellen. However, their performances were nothing short of amazing and ultimately delivered a near-flawless performance.
After short intermission, the band launched into another 10-minute masterpiece, “And You and I” (off of the 1972 LP Close to the Edge). This was immediately followed by selections from Tales from Topographic Oceans. My favorite track from this album was “Leaves of Green” - an excerpt from “The Ancient (Giants Under the Sun)”. Davison’s vocals were masterful and Howe’s sheer brilliance on guitar mesmerized the Yes faithful into a trance-like state that lasted up until the final chord of “Nous Sommes du Soleil”. Simply breathtaking. The show wrapped up with a killer encore consisting of fan-favorites “Roundabout” and “Starship Trooper”. There was not a single person at The Grove in their seats during their final reprise. Everyone (and I mean everyone) was out of their chair singing and celebrating with a band they have grown to love over the past four decades. There could not have been a better ending to this powerful set.
When the dust had settled and everyone was back on solid ground, I finally had a chance to collect my thoughts. Did Yes live up to all the hype and exceed my expectations? One word – Absolutely. Howe, Downes, Davison, Schellen, and Sherwood laid all of their cards on the table and pulled out all of the stops in this once-in-a-lifetime show. It was clear to everyone that what was just witnessed was a special performance (and maybe one of their best on their 2016 Album Series Tour). Maybe Jon Davison said it best earlier in the show, “It’s been a great tour, but my heart belongs to OC”. Coincidence? I think not. If you get a chance to see these guys live on tour this fall, please do. It’s definitely a “bucket-list” type of show that leaves nothing (and everything) to one’s imagination.
For more information on Yes and their current US tour – Click here.
Set List:
Act 1
Drama:
I’ve Seen All Good People
Siberian Khatru
Act 2:
And You and I
Selections from Tales from Topographic Oceans
Encore:
Roundabout
Starship Trooper
Stay Frosty and Rock On!
From Newcastle upon Tyne, UK duo Those Who Burn first met performing an improvised set at the legendary 'Star and Shadow' Cinema of Ouseburn Valley. Following the performance they set up studio in a disused industrial unit honing improvised sketches and schizophrenic sound in collaboration with other innovative musicians and vocalists.
Described as "gritty, engaging and aggressive", Those Who Burn utilize surreal imagery and veer from grand cinematic soundscapes to abrasive subversive rock, delicate ambient melody, synth drone and spacious trippy break-beats delivered with an ethos that resists categorization and stylistic inertia.
Those Who Burn resonate in the multimedia context of Film and Television as on your turntable, radio or mp3 player.
All Compositions and Sound Recordings are represented by Hunnypot exclusively.
The Olympics are over but Hunnypot Live! keeps delivering winning gold medal music.
Monday night was off to the races with a Hot Tub Johnny DJ set that vaulted our poles and and volleyed our balls. The marathon relay continued with our guest DJ Yvette Metoyer (SuperMusicVision) DJ set that brought in gold, silver and even bronze feels. Bevin Hamilton represented the "country" of Americana for a freestyle event, there was no equestrian that Lyrical Groove got all our hooves dancing, Madeline Spooner swung it out of the park with her electronic flavor sounds and Hot Sauce Holiday was so busy having fun and entertaining they forgot there was any competition. 8-22-16
-J. Gray
Yvette Metoyer grew up in sunny Southern California and spent many countless hours scoring life’s memories by making mixtapes (yes, tapes) for her high school and college friends. Inspired by her love of music and TV at an early age, she pursued a career in television production after having graduated from Cal State Long Beach.
After having worked on several successful shows, including HBO’s Big Love, a lengthy WGA writers’ strike shut down all LA productions, and Yvette decided to take a music supervision extension course at UCLA, where she met one of the top music supervisors in the game, Thomas Golubic´. A one year apprenticeship with Thomas’ company SuperMusicVision blossomed into a nearly ten year working relationship with exciting collaborations on multiple film & TV projects, including the Emmy award winning AMC series Breaking Bad, the zombie apocalypse ratings juggernaut The Walking Dead, the delightfully smart and charming Breaking Bad prequel, Better Call Saul, the Cinemax thriller series Outcast, and the witty comedic drama series Grace & Frankie. Yvette has recently been promoted as co-music supervisor on the critically acclaimed AMC series Halt and Catch Fire and is sure to continue expanding on her impressive resume.
Bevin is an Alternative Rock Artist pinning her genre as 'American Gothic Rock'. She is a solo Artist/Songwriter residing in the city of angels, both dark and light. Her background in music stems from classical to classic rock, and is evident in her songs. She has toured, written and/or worked with the likes of Motley Crue, Tim Armstrong, and Jimmy Cliff. She has honed her songwriting skills with many Nashville writers and Artists and continues to expand and push through music stereotypes and barriers.
Her songs explore the inner and outer landscapes of the American Dream.... How we see the world and how the world sees us. The characters that populate her songs are indeed ghosts and fringe dwellers and plucky heroines. The fighters, dreamers, Rebels, Visionaries... In her creative vision all these psychological archetypes and spiritual aspects of our selves get to be unleashed, and heard.
Her EP “Filters and Frames” was produced in Los Angeles by world renowned Producer, Mixer and Songwriter James Michael. James has produced records from artists such as Motley Crue, Scorpions and Papa Roach and has had hits with Kelly Clarkson and James Durbin to Meatloaf. He is also the Lead singer of the band Sixx: AM.
The Lyrical Groove is a band that combines cohesively crafted spoken word and live instrumentation to inspire and entertain. With a musical style that balances Jazz, Hip Hop, Blues, R&B, Gospel, and Soul, The Lyrical Groove infuses a potent message with a social consciousness and spiritual awareness that sings to your humanity and moves your soul.
The Lyrical Groove was formed under the motivation of spoken word artist, Kendrick Dial, to have live music accompany his performance of poetry. The pursuit of collaboration then began with Louisiana born friend and drummer, Glenn “GK” Sanders and keyboardist, Mike Smith. The group officially formed in November 2010, after a gig at the Ruby Room in San Diego, CA. An overwhelming, affirming crowd response cemented in the group’s minds what their hearts were warming up to. In July 2011, the band was joined by musical Bay Area native guitarist, Mike “Token” Benedetto, Jacob “Cubby” Miranda on bass and their ultra-talented vocalist Brisa Lauren in 2012.
The Lyrical Groove just released their debut full-length album, Spoken Soul: Music For Life, which is a catalogue of spoken words and songs that mirror the genres that inspire the band. The Lyrical Groove has been one of San Diego’s hardest working bands over the last 4 years. If you are a lover of musicianship, lyrical inspiration, and wit accompanied by an awe-inspiring live performance, then Lyrical Groove is the band for you. Music is one of the most barrier-bridging elements of life. Lyrical Groove is a band that embodies that sentiment.
The Lyrical Groove as performed all over San Diego, CA at a collage of events ranging from fund-raisers, church and youth programs, music concerts, wine tastings, to numerous events/venues such as the San Diego IndieFest, Anthology, Humphrey’s Backstage Lounge, Winston’s, and The House of Blues.
Madeline Spooner is an experimental electronic pop artist based out of Los Angeles. Her latest EP, NAUTILUS, is an amalgamation of organic and electronic instrumentation that perfectly frames her spellbinding vocals.
From her roots as a Midwestern native, Madeline has married her early acoustic storytelling with her affection for electronic music. She draws inspiration from the non-standard pop sensibilities of artists like Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, and The Doors as well as the esoteric tendencies of Coco Rosie, The Knife and Kate Bush.
Chris Douridas of KCRW first premiered Madeline on the airwaves on his Saturday radio show. Subsequently, Madeline was invited to a successful May residency at the Satellite, where she released her first single from NAUTILUS. Respected music columnist Kevin Bronson (BuzzbandsLA) first debuted the single on KCSN. He wrote:
"Had to Let It Go, a dreamy communiqué about shucking the weight of the world, embodies the mystical themes on the EP. With its airy flourishes and cinematic sweep, [it] has the same je ne sais quoi as the more experimental work of Marina and the Diamonds. It’s good for letting go.”
Quirky curio instruments combine with analogue synths in a lush panoramic landscape, where Spooner endeavors to maintain a soulfulness in her rich and expansive contemporary sound. Madeline’s co-producer and collaborator, Ethan Allen (Tricky, Ben Harper, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Patty Griffin) shares these same sentiments, resulting in a cohesive vision for inspired sonics and thought-provoking lyrics.
As a two-time first place award winner for the American Songwriting Awards, executive director Joseph Paulos highly lauded her by writing, “Madeline’s vibrant pop sound with psychedelic twists and turns keep listeners wanting more. We believe she is going to redefine the independent music scene.”
NAUTILUS will be available on July 31st on www.madelinespooner.bandcamp.com, www.madelinespooner.com, iTunes and all major digital retailers.
Hot Sauce Holiday is for everyone that wants to kick over their office desks and start dancing. We are for the eccentric outsiders, the burners, and the lovers. Join us in taking on the banality of convention.
Hot Sauce Holiday is a four piece cabaret rock band from Los Angeles. Their live shows emphasize crowd participation and a great deal of improv. Bongo-solos, skits, poetry, and dance numbers have been known to break out. They have been known to feature burlesque dancers, hula hoop artists, and scandalous routines involving Playboy playmates. Genre-wise the sound varies from song to song drawing influence from 60's psychedelic and folk, to early punk, 80's electro, disco, and even a bit of barbershop. The song lyrics are surreal and witty with every band member trading off on vocals or singing in harmonies. In addition to over 20 originals the band has a variety of party cover songs they are able to play ranging from George Michael to Motorhead.
So leave the outside world behind you for a couple hours and come experience the originality, joy, and chaos that is Hot Sauce Holiday. Hunnypot Approved good time guarantee!
Scott Stapp is considered by many to be one of the top vocalists of the 1990’s. His thought-provoking lyrics and high-energy stage presence were a welcome change in a post-grunge scene that seemed more pop oriented and less-substantive than its heavyweight predecessors like Nirvana or Pearl Jam. Upon the release of My Own Prison in 1997, Stapp and Creed quickly ascended to the top of the Billboard Charts with three #1 hits - a feat that no other band had accomplished with a debut album. Over the next few years, the band’s popularity skyrocketed including a certified diamond LP, Human Clay, and a Grammy in 2001 for Best Rock Song with their hit, “With Arms Wide Open”. Creed was definitely a household name and arguably one of the most popular bands on the planet. Unfortunately, all of the fame and fortune that comes with success came crashing down on Stapp in 2004 when Creed parted ways. Regardless of reason for their break up, it was the first in a series of tragic events that would stigmatize (and ultimately reshape) Scott Stapp into the man he is today.
On Saturday August 20th, Scott Stapp rose from the ashes to perform for an intimate crowd at Club Vibe inside of the Morongo Casino in Cabazon, CA. Expectations were high for the near-capacity crowd, many of which had already seen Scott Stapp perform numerous times on his 2016 Proof of Life Tour. As lights dimmed, energy levels began to skyrocket as frenzied fans began to push their way towards the stage. Strobes flashed green and blue as lead guitarist Ioannis Papadopoulos, rhythm guitarist Ben Flanders, bass guitarist Sammy Hudson, and drummer Dango Cellan all took their place on stage. After a short prelude, Scott Stapp joined the band center stage, grabs the mic, and screams, “I think they shoot cause they want it.” And at that moment, all bets were off in Cabazon as the band launched into 2001 anthem “Bullets”. Based on Stapp’s energy and emotion, it was clear that this was going to be a special night.
Over the next two hours, Scott Stapp mesmerized the Southern California crowd with a brilliant setlist comprised of classics from his years with Creed as well as lesser known tracks off his solo LP Proof of Life. Standards such as “My Own Prison”, “With Arms Wide Open”, and “Higher” were played with a reckless abandon that transported many back to their first Creed concert. Stapp’s vocals were spot-on, and showed no signs of rust as he brilliantly maneuvered the 90-minute 12 song set. In addition, Scott’s band was absolutely amazing. Papadopoulos and Flanders electrified the crowd with brilliant guitar work coupled with a kick-ass stage presence that left nothing on the table the entire show. Hudson’s bass lines were sick, and Dango’s stick work was truly intoxicating. The way these guys played together, you’d think they had been touring for the last 15 years. Scott Stapp wrapped up the evening with an amazing encore featuring two of my favorite songs, “One Last Breath” and “My Sacrifice”. You could tell from the look in his eyes that he did not want the night to end, and he connected with as many fans as possible up until the last note was played. What an epic show.
From his humble beginnings as the son of a Pentecostal Minister to now solo-artist, Scott Stapp has lived a full life with many highs (and even more lows) over a complex 20-year career. His self-admitted struggles with drugs, alcohol, and mental illness have taken him on a fascinating journey that most could not fathom, only to come out on the other side a better human being, father, and husband. And to get back in the game after all that Stapp has gone though is an incredible feat all to itself. Saturday’s show at Morongo was a testament that anything is possible with focus, determination, along with the unconditional love and support from one’s family. If this inspiring performance was any indication of things to come for Scott Stapp, the sky’s is definitely the limit going forward. Saturday's performance is one of my top 10 for 2016 and definitely a “must-see” show!
Click Here to find out when Scott Stapp is playing in your area on his 2016 Proof of Life Tour.
Set List (8/20):
Stay Frosty and Rock On!
PADUCAH, Ky. — Twenty-five years. Two-and-a-half decades. A quarter of a century. A long time no matter what you are talking about. So it’s no surprise J.D. Wilkes wanted to celebrate that milestone for his band, the Legendary Shack Shakers. Founder/frontman/multi-instrumentalist Wilkes decided the best way to commemorate a quarter century of making music with his band was - of course - by making more music. But like most long-lasting groups, the Legendary Shack Shakers have had a lot of band members come and go through the years. So a “family reunion” was planned, one that would host past members and the current lineup for celebratory recording sessions. The result is the group’s new full-length offering from Alternative Tentacles, Cockadoodledeux, due out November 5th, 2021. The title is a nod to the Shack Shakers’ 2003 album, Cockadoodledon’t. Though not their debut record, it was the one that broke the group to a wider audience. Its explosive collision of punk, blues and country was perhaps what made the Shack Shakers legendary. Cockadoodledeux, however, is more singular in its focus. Wilkes had been yearning to set his rock ’n’ roll leanings aside and record something new. This time, instead of hopping genres as many of his albums do, Wilkes wanted to explore one genre alone. He wanted to just make a Country-and-Western record.
“Our older albums jump around all over the place, genre to genre, styles that are almost diametrically-opposed even,” he says. “But this record jumps only within country music itself. It's a big-tent genre, really. It has all these little subgenres within it providing endless variety. From Western swing and rockabilly to spaghetti Western and bluegrass and even Tex Mex.” Originally, Wilkes planned to pursue this concept on his 2018 solo record, Fire Dream, but when the sessions got underway, the muse pulled him in a different direction. “Suddenly, I had all these unused country tunes, and I thought, ‘Hey, that could be the new Shack Shakers record,’” he says. “And it made sense to me because family reunions and country music seem to go hand in hand.” In addition to the current members (guitarist Gary Siperko, bassist Fuller Condon and drummer Preston Corn), the original 1990s lineup showed up, and former members like multi-instrumentalist Chris Scruggs (Marty Stuart’s Fabulous Superlatives) and bassist Morgan Jahnig (Old Crow Medicine Show) pitched in, too. Cockadoodledeux also includes performances by a few Kentucky music legends, such as Sun Studio guitarist Stanley Walker (Jean Shepard, “Rockin’” Ray Smith), dobroist Jack Martin (Lester Flatt) and renowned Cajun fiddler “Hillbilly” Bob Prather (Onie Wheeler).
Punk rock icon and founder of Alternative Tentacles Jello Biafra makes a special guest appearance, as well, contributing vocals to the band’s cover of the theme to the TV Western series Rawhide. He first met the Shakers at South by Southwest in 2005 and has since made several appearances with the band, both onstage and on their album Pandelirium. Biafra calls Wilkes “the last great rock ’n’ roll frontman.” Of Biafra, Wilkes says, “It’s just good to be with people who believe in you and are passionate about what you do.” Because of the Covid pandemic, Wilkes uploaded the “Rawhide” tracks to Biafra’s San Francisco studio where he added his wild yelps and yodels remotely. “He killed it,” Wilkes says. The bulk of the recording was done at the Time on the String studio in Paducah, Kentucky. But like Biafra, Jahnig and Scruggs added their parts remotely. “Morgan has a studio of his own, so I sent him the tracks,” Wilkes says. “And I drove down to see Chris and was actually at the studio in Nashville as he laid down steel guitar. Otherwise, everyone else came to Kentucky for the family reunion.” Cockadoodledeux includes a track, “Secret Mountain,” that was originally intended for the band’s first release on Alternative Tentacles. Recorded at Nashville’s famous Woodland Studio, it features Micah Hulscher (Wanda Jackson, Emmylou Harris, Margo Price) on barrel-house piano and former Shack Shakers Mark Robertson, Rod Hamdallah and Brett Whitacre. “Secret Mountain" is a track that got nixed off The Southern Surreal,” Wilkes explains. “It was just too country at the time. But, of course, it’s perfect for this.” Wilkes’s passion for country and western music is apparent throughout the record, his vocal performances resonating with an authenticity that too often is missing from modern country fare. And while Cockadoodledeux may be more musically disciplined than their past albums, songs like “They Won't Let Me Forget” (“They won’t let me forget, all the things I can’t recall”) and “Punk Rock Retirement Plan” (“He likes a square dance instead of a slam dance”) reflect Wilkes’ wickedly hilarious brand of lyricism; a thing that has been winning him fans for quite a while - 25 years in fact. Looking back on the group’s journey, Wilkes remarks, “It’s been 25 years of long-lasting friendships, unfortunate rivalries - amazing experiences. Triumphs. Heartaches. The whole dramatic story arc.” He pauses, then adds, “And I can’t wait for the next 25.”
Hunnypot is Th' Legendary Shack Shakers official Publishing sync representative, ask us about LICENSING! - John Anderson
