rickyleepotts…an opinionated realist

I wanted to change up the interview process a little bit. I wanted to show a side of music that was not from the performer’s side of things but from the person that plays those artist’s tracks. I want to introduce you to Dave Tripper from Fusion Radio (www.fusionchicago.com) in Chicago, Illinois. Dave is a long time techno and dance fan and an awesome individual. I’ve gotten the chance to know Dave for a little while now and he is always excited to talk about music, beats, DJs, and anything else he can get his hands on. Sit back and enjoy as I introduce you to Dave Tripper.

So how did you get into the DJ business?

The truth is, it’s all about having a passion and being in the right chat room at the right time. I have been into radio for a long time, back to the glory days of WLS-AM, before they became an uber-conservative radio cesspool. Listening to legends like Larry Lujack, Brant Miller, Yvonne Daniels and others and then later on other stations, Steve Dahl and Garry Meier, Jonathan Brandmeier, Paul Barski, Robert Murphy, Tom Joyner, Doug Banks and others really instilled in me a true love of the medium of radio. But it took a long time before my passion was realized.

Over 5 years ago, the dance music station Energy 92.7 in Chicago went off the air. A friend of mine and me were so mad, that we explored starting our own station, not realizing it takes millions of dollars to buy a station in the Chicago market. Then, I stumbled upon “internet radio” while searching, and it intrigued me. I told him about it and stayed up until 5 A.M. researching it. I continued and finally found a Yahoo! Group that said, and I’m paraphrasing, “Starting an internet dance station. If interested…” I went to the chat room at the exact time and there were a grand total of 4 people in it. At the time Greg (the current COO of Fusion Radio), Sonny (former PD), Jake (tech guy) and myself were in there from what I can remember (which is not much (laughs). The other 3 were geek tech talking way over my head, so I just sat in there and soaked it all in. Finally, I made my presence known by saying, “Hi.” They asked me what my interest is. I said, “I would love to do a countdown show.” They said, “OK, go ahead.” And that’s honestly how it all started.

Is Fusion your first DJ gig?

If you don’t count block parties and weddings, yes it is. My previous experience was in playing and singing music. I was in a rock band for years and helped my brother run his Chicago record label, Kentland Records.

What got you hooked on dance music?

I have loved dance music pretty much from my youth. The first “dance” song I can remember was “Rock the Boat” by Hues Corporation. I loved the song, which led right into the Disco era. Anything disco, I loved. Then came New Wave (Duran Duran, Gary Numan, Devo, Blondie) and the UK invasion, part 2 (Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, New Order) And of course, Chicago was one of the centers of House music, and with the legendary mix shows on WBMX in the 80’s, I was in dance music for life.

You host a show called Diva Hour. Tell me a little bit about that.

Diva Hour started as my tribute to women and gay acts in dance music. Radio has not represented the massive contribution that both have made, so I’m doing it. Plus, it’s an hour where if you’re not a diva or don’t have diva traits, that you can be inspired to be a diva! Feel the divaness! Be one with Diva Nation that is Diva HOUR!!! OK, a bit much. But Diva Hour represents having an attitude of confidence without having an attitude. It has definitely struck a chord with my listeners, and they are into it from moment one, so much so that I now have a weekday Diva Hour request show (9 P.M. on Wednesdays at www.fusionchicago.com). I knew the segment would be popular from the start, but never imagined it would grow to what it’s become; so far.

Who is your favorite DJ?

I’ve really been into David Guetta’s stuff lately. His songs ooze passionate vocals, but also pay homage with obvious 80’s influences including Depeche Mode and others. But I also really like Benny Benassi’s whole sexytime vibe thing. His songs are essentially like having sex. And whenever my listeners are feeling randy, horny, or whorey, I break out the Benny.

What is your favorite color?

Purple, because it brings out my impossibly Alaskan Husky blue eyes (laughs) also, I really like Prince, so it’s a pleasant coincidence.

You like living in Chicago with all this snow?

No sane person would ever like all this snow. Chicago would be a perfect city if we could lose the 6 months of winter and 2 months of desert-style summer heat. Oh wait, that only leaves 4 months. On second thought, just flip Chicago and San Diego. Let’s see how the beach bums would deal with -30 below wind chill.

If you could live anywhere else in the world where would you go?

I’ve never been to Ibiza. I want to see if I could survive a week on the 24-hour party island. By the way, if I do go and anyone sees me lying on the street, just pour some Gatorade down my throat, and I’ll be fine

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be?

It’s cliché because of all of the books and movies done about him, but DaVinci. What a genius! Just picking his brain for days would be absolutely mind-numbing and probably make me feel really, really stupid and wished I would have studied even harder in school.

Is it hard hiding behind a microphone all day?

I have shows two nights a week, plus club dates, so it’s no big deal. I love every second I’m behind it. I’d love to have a Truman Show radio existence if I could. I’d love to be the first jock to do an entire show in the shower, with or without optional web cam (laughs). Of course, I’d have to figure out how to do it without electrocuting myself.

What do you do for fun on your nights off?

I love going to clubs, but am really intrigued by scenes in other cities. It’s impossible to go to every city, but I love talking with others about it. Also I love reading and watching TV about astronomy, politics, the history of comedy, improv (Whose Line Is It Anyway?) classic cartoons and listen to all genres of music, more than I could possibly list. Oh, and I actually watch the Weather Channel. Yes. I watch the Weather Channel actively. Also, I’m obsessed with tornadoes. The show Storm Chasers is epic.

What is the best club for dance music in the city?

Berlin. Their DJ’s are usually ahead of the curve on the newest and latest, with a marked aggressive edge to it. I’ll never forget hearing “Rockerfella Skank” almost 2 years before it became popular. And its dark and foreboding interior in such a small space makes it a superb dark dance music experience.

Cubs or White Sox?

Either way I answer this, I’m pissing off a gigantic part of the city. So I’ll say the Chicago Coxs.

Do
you have a copy of 50 Techno Electro Tunes yet?

Yup.

You are offered a DJ job at another station. Your salary will double. But it’s a country station. Do you go?

Good gawd. If it was country music from the 70’s and 80’s, I’d think about it for a second. But today’s country music is an absolute nightmare that should be launched into the nearest black hole or convenient, 4th, 5th, or 6th dimension. Let our inter-dimensional neighbors deal with this menace to the universe.

If you could meet any DJ in the world who would it be?

I briefly did a backstage interview with Tiesto, and I’d love to hang out with him. He has exceptional taste in all music, including Christina Aguilera and Iron Maiden. I’m not kidding (plus, I have him saying it on tape, er, mp3 (laughs). Of the ones I haven’t met, I’d say Paul Oakenfold. I briefly did a phone interview with him and he had a bad ass edge to him, which would make a very interesting “off-the-record” conversation with the stories he has to tell from decades on the road.

Is Lady Gaga good or just a one hit wonder?

I think she’s good. It’s like when I first heard Rihanna, I thought “Meh.” Then remix after remix got stuck in my head and I thought, “Wow, I guess I like her.” Gaga’s “Just Dance” got just annoying after awhile, but “Pokerface” is the real thing. Will she be able to survive the sophomore slump that some artists go through? That will be the true test.

Is Dave Tripper your real name?

Nope. It’s the result of my sister and me discussing what I should call myself on air. Originally, my name on Fusion Radio (which used to be Pure Pulse Radio which used to be Moodance…yes, Moo like the cow…sigh) was DJZ. I thought it was clever squeezing all the letters together as one entity. Wrong. That lasted for a few months, but then after talking to my sister, she suggested DJ Jack Tripper, because I looked like the original Three’s Company member as a kid and I actually loved the show. I liked the Tripper part, but decided to go with my real first name, and voila! Dave Tripper was born.

What is your all time favorite movie?

Auntie Mame. It’s about a very flamboyant aunt living the high life of the 1920’s until her brother died, and she wound up raising his 10-year old son. She was an incredibly interesting character and a lot like me. She was a dreamer, like me. She didn’t tolerate intolerance, like me. She was the life of the party, like me. She wanted nothing but the best for all those around her, like me. Wow, I guess I’m Auntie Dave. But seriously, watch the movie. It’s intelligent, a little slower paced with more intellectual humor than bust out ha-ha that people are conditioned to “like” today.

Who was the number 1 song on the Top 100 of 2008 this year?

Ida Corr v. Fedde Le Grande – “Let Me Think About It.” It was a dominating force in 2008. But it really was a coin flip between that and “Into the Nightlife” by Cyndi Lauper. Actually, the Cyndi song was the #1 requested song on Fusion Radio Chicago, but really, you couldn’t go wrong with either song at the top.

So tell me what it was like hanging out with Jenn Cuneta.

It was fantastic. She actually is in a band with her husband, where she sings funk/R&B, so we had lots to talk about. It was like two music geeks totally hitting it off. I would name an artist (Earth, Wind, and Fire), and she would fire back with another one (The Dazz Band). She’s also uber-talented and ridiculously smart.

Let’s play word association. What is the first thing that pops into your mind when you read these three words?

Vodka: Chocolate martini. I freakin’ LOVE Chocolate martinis.
Teeth: Chiclets. I freakin’ LOVE peeps with perfect teeth.
Kentucky: Caves I freakin’ LOVED seeing Mammoth Cave when I young.

How does it feel to be the first Indyconcerts.com interview that is not an artist?

It’s really an honor to be the 1st. But to be honest, I really do consider myself an artist. I am an entertainer that loves, appreciates, and knows the music I play as much as I love, appreciate, and know the listeners that I have. I love being the Friday night party that has no cover charge, no drama, and full acceptance with everyone being invited no matter your age, race, sexuality, or other things that some people embarrassingly use to hold against someone. My party is open to everyone. And for those who are ignorant and have any “–isms”, you can pick one of my ass cheeks and chomp down really hard.

I always let the artist get the last word. Why not the DJ too? Go.

Love is all that matters, but intellectual curiosity is still vital. Muah. See you Friday nights in the chatroom at www.davetripperlive.com (SHAMELESS PLUG…BAH!) Also, thank you Ricky for taking the time to interview me. It is a true honor. I love you all.

I am sitting here today with a brand new band to my ears and a new band to the Indy music scene as well, The Post Script. I was turned on to these guys from a good friend of mine Josh Corken. Josh, who is currently working on the design of their debut album cover, is friends of the band and shared their music with me. And I must say that I am glad that he did. Bringing a certain groove infused jazz laced funk sound to the stage you should prepare for pure talent on the instrumentals and industry quality lyrics. Not having even released their debut album yet The Post Script gets you right off the bat with their already established image. Wearing tie-dyed shirts and carrying a handful of Woodstock influences you are immediately impacted by their drive to the top. You just simply see fun in their music and passion in their hearts. Sit back while I introduce you to a band you might not have heard of yet but will fall in love with in the very near future.

How did you guys all meet?

Well all three of us knew each other from around 2004-2005 because the bands that we were playing in at the time (The Suits, Killer Thomas, and The Urban Rednecks) all played together. When we all met up at the Dave Matthews concert in the summer of 2007, all of our bands had broken up so we decided to start something new and fresh. That was when The Post Script was born.

What was your inspiration to record music like this?

Honestly, our inspiration was to be nothing like any bands we had ever played in before. We all came from very one person centered groups, where we didn’t feel like we had the ability to do anything we wanted. This group was based off of freedom of expression.

Who are some of your biggest influences both personally and musically?

(Abe) The Beatles. I am also into jazz and fusion, and have been become very hip to Afro Cuban and Latin too. I am inspired by rhythm. Personally, I am inspired by the people around me. I have been blessed to have friends and family that I love and that love me. (Blain) Musically I was Blessed to grow up around a lot of musical friends, it’s cool because when everyone around you is really good, you kind of push yourself a bit more trying to keep up. (Laughs) I love so many musicians it’s really hard to pinpoint one main influence. I try to be open to influence because it can come from any number of things, you know? Personally, my parents we’re a huge influence for me. They were always really supportive with the choices I made. Also just all the friends I have made along the way and all the people I have gotten to jam with for sure. (Matt) My biggest influence musically and personally was my mother, and family. As a little kid, around five years old, I would go to my mom’s band practices and that really is what got me interested into music, and playing in bands. She showed me basic chords on the guitar, and taught me how to read chord charts and tabs, and then told me if I wanted to learn how to play, then I could. From there it was all about listening to other musicians, and playing with as many different people as I could. Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Trey Anastasio, and John Mayer have been the biggest influences as far as my guitar playing goes. As far as songwriting goes, my influences come from a more Pop-Indie- Psycadelic based style- Death Cab for Cutie, The Flaming Lips, John Mayer, the Beatles, and Matt Wertz.

Any tattoos in the group?

Blain has bass clefs tattooed around his right bicep, and matt has the word “music” tattooed on his right forearm.

Who was the most?

Blain and Matt are tied. Abe’s just a puss.

Where do you guys practice?

We practice in the basement of a huge office complex in Noblesville. It used to be an old grain mill and has a very cool old brick building facade. The only downside is we have to practice all night long, since we can’t play at all during the day, and we all have full time jobs, making the ability to practice at nigh, actually kind of a good thing.

What is the largest crowd you have ever played for?

32,000 sprinting Hoosiers in the streets of Indianapolis for the three hour straight jam that was the Mini Marathon in 2008.

What about the smallest?

Abe’s dad at practice. He thought we were too loud, and should have played some Yanni tunes. We decided Abe would look good with Yanni’s mustache though; very full.

If you guys were headlining at Verizon Wireless Music Center who would be your opener?

OK, so picture this. The Post Script, free lawn tickets, free booze, and a four hour set with the opening song “The Boys are Back In Town.” It was just always a dream since we would always go see concerts there as we were growing up. As far as an opener, we are kind of used to being the opener. (Laughs) So we would probably just bring in all our friends and have them jam onstage with us.

Do you guys all have jobs or is music it?

Matt Works at a few different places in Broadripple. Blain is a pharmacy technician in a town called Tipton which is about an hour north of Indianapolis. Abe is a part time accountant and goes to school at IUPUI.

What would you be doing if you were not playing music?

Wondering what the hell we were doing with our lives. (Laughs)

How do you all know Josh Corken?

He is Matt’s cousin. He also goes to IUPUI with Abe. Otherwise, we know he has healthy taste for Yats and an excellent eye for graphic design. Keep your eyes peeled, because his work is likely going to be a staple for The Post Scripts image for a while.

Where are you recording your album?

We are recording at The Pop Machine in Broadripple. We have been working with Eric Klee Johnson as our producer, who is an absolutely amazing individual and has really helped us move our music to the next level. We actually have the first six songs on the album done, we are going in to start recording the last 6 in early February or late January.

What are you drinking on stage?

We are all under 21, so Matt is a super nice guy and always buys us water before shows. We try to get Ethos whenever possible so when we waste money on bottled water we know, at least some of the profits are going towards a good cause. Helping out and giving back is very important to us, and we plan to give a portion of the money we make off the CD’s to environmental funds.

If you could tour with any one band in the industry today, who would it be?

(Thinks) That is a good question. We know a lot of good bands that we would love to go on tour with. We have a lot of friends we love playing shows with. It could be any of them, then of course there are those bands that have influenced us as well, like Keller Williams, John Mayer, Dave Matthews, Death Cab For Cutie or Umphrees McGee. Another amazing band that is
just now breaking into the scene from Chicago is Company of Thieves, they are great guys and we love playing with them.

If you could only cover one song for the rest of your career what one would it be?

Something by Yanni to keep Abe’s dad off our backs.

You guys have some pretty solid photography. Who took all those shots?

We are fortunate to have become great friends with a Mr. Steve Hamm. He is a stellar photographer and has done most of our stuff. Also Mrs. Megan Mayhem from Laurence North High School has done pretty much everything else that Steve didn’t do, and she of course is also super gifted.

Let’s play word association. Name the first thing that comes to your mind when you read these three words. Go.

Apple Pie: Dragon Fly
Fruity Pebbles: Barney Rubble
Tim Allen: Tool Time

If you could live in any other city in the world where would it be and why?

(Blain) Anywhere in New Zealand where they filmed Lord of the Rings. Beautiful place. (Abe) Somewhere hot. Preferably on water. (Matt) I’ll be happy switching off living at their two houses. They sound real nice.

If you could sit down and have dinner with one person, alive or dead, who would it be?

(Abe) Today, it would be president elect Barrack Obama. (Matt) Wayne Coyne of the Flaming Lips. (Blain) Jaco Pastorius; surely he would be an interesting conversation. Or Carmen Electra naked. That would probably be equally as interesting.

What are you eating for dinner?

(Blain) Chinese (Abe) Something cheap. (Matt) Left over something cheap.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

(Abe) Eggs and bacon. (Blain) Breakfast quesadilia; oh yeah. (Matt) Bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich with syrup and hash browns.

Mac or PC?

What am I doing on the computer? But probably PC.

If you were told you could sign a record deal right now for $250,000 but you had to record someone else’s lyrics and it was a country album, would you do it?

If we had to tour to back it; hell no.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Making music. Playing music. Hopefully making enough money to continue to make music, and help the world be a better place.

What do you want to be remembered for when it’s all said and done?

Just to be remembered would be super sweet.

I always let the artists get the last word.

Go. Listen to music. Do good for those around you. Try something new. Peace, love and good vibrations.

Today I am talking with Lauren Zettler. Lauren is another New York City based singer songwriter and one that has a very keen sense of the word musician. Bringing an almost back roads country image to the scene Lauren sings with heart, passion, and experience in her music. Lauren, who is featured on a Daniel Inskeep (from the Sweatshirt Weather) single, is sitting with me today. Sit back and get to know an amazing, talented, spirited musician and lyricist.

When did you begin playing the guitar?

I feel like I started kind of late. I got my first guitar on my 14th birthday. I played it enough to teach myself some basic chords and write my first songs but I didn’t really start to treat it like I do now until I went away to college. So I’ve seriously been playing it for five years or so.

How do I get me one of those Zettler t-shirts?

(Laughs) Those were a special edition t-shirt made for the fundraiser concert I held in Indianapolis this past summer. But I still have a few left. You can buy them on my merchandise page at http://laurenzettler.com/store.html

You did a duo with Daniel Inskeep. How do you know Daniel?

Daniel is actually one of my little brother’s best friends Daniel’s older sister is one of my close friends as well. So I’d see him around our house a lot. He’s such a good kid. (Laughs)

You have a very polished image. What came first? The image or the music?

(Laughs) It’s really funny that you say that. I just had someone design a MySpace layout for me, so I suppose that kind of helped to creating that illusion for you. It’s definitely all evolving at the same time. I understand that an image or a “polished” presence is something that’s important in the music industry, but I definitely don’t believe that it’s more important than the music itself. So, the music always comes first.

Where does your inspiration come when you sit down to write a new song?

Most of the time it comes from some sort of frustration I’m trying to deal with. Sometimes it comes from another song I’ve been listening to. I’ll hear something that makes me feel a certain way, and I’ll be feeling that way for a week. Eventually I have to turn around and get it out of me, so I’ll write a song about it. I listen to a lot of things that make me sad. (Laughs) So that kind of comes across in my music, too, I think. It’s the whole “feels so good to hurt” thing. I don’t know why. But I can’t stay away from it.

Tell me a little bit about your car, Lola. (Realized after reading her response that car was a misspelling.) (Laughs)

(Actually, Lola is my cat. You must have misread it in my bio. I completely understand if that makes this question uninteresting now, but I’ll answer it anyway). Lola is nuts. I have had her for about five years now. She was a stray and super cute. Still is. All white with green eyes. But she is not very nice. She’s the farthest things from the cuddly friend I wanted when I decided to get a pet, but you can’t really foresee these things. I love her anyway. I’m definitely more of a dog person but I’ve lived in Boston and New York City for the past five years and dogs are hard to care for in cities.

Who is your biggest influence?

My influences are usually always other musicians. All of last year I couldn’t get enough of Brandi Carlile. She really tore into me and intensified my desire to pursue music. I also love Patty Griffin. I’m pretty heavily influenced by my surroundings, too. New York is such an incredible place to live and people here are so passionate. There are a lot of people fighting for important things, and that’s really inspiring.

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be?

That’s always a loaded question. There are just so many possibilities. Right now I really want to meet Barack Obama. In terms of musicians, however, I’d love to sit down with Bob Dylan or Freddie Mercury. Patty Griffin.

PC or Mac?

Mac.

Chips and salsa or burger and fries?

I am a vegetarian (laughs) so I’m gonna go with chips and salsa.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all over?

As cliche as it sounds I just want to write good music that moves people. I want to be effective. I want to help someone get through something just like all of my heroes have done for me.

What is the largest crowd you have ever played for?

Probably about 150 people. 2009 is going to be awesome though and that number is going to grow.

The smallest?

(Laughs) Ten people. Probably including the bartender and sound guy. I’m sure I’ll have more shows like that as I start to tour around the country but everybody starts somewhere and I’m okay with that.

MySpace. Good or bad for musicians?

I don’t think you can deny its usefulness. Whenever anyone suggests a band to me, the first thing I do is type in their MySpace. It’s my go-to and I think a lot of other people are the same way. I use it every day. I don’t think it’s quite as effective as it used to be, and I certainly wish it wasn’t as buggy as it is. Sometimes it is such a pain to deal with. Regardless, I think it’s necessary.

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?

Oh geez, I don’t know! Once you live in New York City it’s hard to really think about your next move. I loved Paris, though, when I visited. I’m really looking forward to the touring lifestyle of a musician. I always get antsy when I’m in one place for too long, and I love so many U.S. cities. New York, Boston, Austin, Los Angeles, Nashville. I’d like to kind of live all over the place.

Let’s play word association. What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you read the three following terms. Go.

Wizard of Oz: Green witch
Charcoal: Artwork
White: Teeth

Describe your genre in one word.

Pop. If I can use more than one word, I’d go on to explain that by “pop” I mean “popular” – not bubble gum over-produced stuff. I mean rock and roll. Music that a lot of people like. I hate categorizing genres, because I feel like it can be misleading. I know people need a point of reference to get an idea of what you’re like, but it’s always difficult to try and describe yourself that way.

If you could tour with any one musician currently in the industry who would it be?

Brandi Carlile. She is amazing. Can someone out there make that happen? (Laughs)

Let’s say you are being offered a $250,000 record co
ntract but you have to record someone else’s lyrics and it is a rap album. Would you do it?

(Laughs) Absolutely not.

Do you have a job or is music it?

I have some odd jobs here and there. I have a regular babysitting job and I write jingles for people. Writing jingles is great because it’s still music related But it is definitely not something I’m interested in doing forever. But it’s great when it pays a few bills.

Starbucks of Panera?

Oooo, good question. We don’t have Panera in New York City but I always go there when I’m home in Indianapolis. I’m a frequent Starbucks-goer, though, so I’m going to have to go with that one.

Coke or Pepsi?

Coke.

Any plans to tour in the near future to support your new album?

Yes! I’m playing a handful of shows around New York and Connecticuit this month. I will head to Boston in April I’m hoping, and then I’m doing a mini-tour in the Pacific Northwest in May with my friend and fellow musician Allison Weiss. We’ll hit up Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver.

What kind of car do you drive?

I don’t have a car because I’ve lived in two cities in the past five years that are very centered around public transportation. But I’m thinking I’m going to need something soon if I want to start touring more.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

My roommate made me an awesome fruit smoothie.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Thanks so much for interviewing me – I can’t wait to play more shows in Indy. I miss home, and I really love where I’m from

I am talking today with local rap artist Jaecyn Bayne. Jaecyn has been playing his way through an extremely competitive rap industry here in the city of Indianapolis but continues to perform as often as he can and continues to write lyrics nearly every day. Having a great personality and a drive to succeed is what makes Jaecyn a true musician. He has been playing music for quite some time and I felt that based on what I have heard of him musically and from what his fans say, he is not going anywhere for a while. Sit back as Jaecyn and I talk about his career and his music.

How long have you been rapping?

I have been rapping since 2004. I always kind of played around with words and I was really heavy into poetry before I got into hip hop. Then in June of 2004 it was like I went from Jean Grae to the Phoenix in lyric form.

When did you know that you wanted to make music a career choice?

Well I actually started rapping jokingly. A few friends of mine were into it already and I was with them one day and they told me to try it. I did, and oddly enough, came up with a verse that was way more dope than theirs (they’ll never admit that though). (Laughs) I actually started to take it serious after hearing people outside of my circle of friends say the liked it. It gave me motivation to keep giving them more of my minds thought processes in music form.

You have played quite a few shows that are collaborations. Is it hard getting solo shows for rappers?

No, I wouldn’t really say it’s hard. You’ve just gotta make your mark. I came in to performing with other people, then branched off as a solo artist with our label, Concrete Beats, and through that, I started doing more collaboration performances. As of late, myself and another solo artist on the label, Freeze, have been working on a joint project, so we’ve been doing shows together to promote the project.

Do you have another job or is music it?

Yeah, I’ve got a job. I wouldn’t consider it another job though. The job pays the bills. Music is my passion, so even if or when I do make it to on a larger scale, I’ll never consider that a job. It’ll just be me doing what I love to do and, ironically, getting paid ridiculous amounts for it. (Laughs)

What salad dressing do you use?

I’m actually not a salad kinda guy. Never have been. Meat and potatoes is the way to go for me. I need something to stick to the bones. I’m a little guy, so I need all the heavy foods I can get! (Laughs)

What are you drinking on stage?

Water. I try to save my “drinking” for after the performance. Otherwise, I’d be the guy up on stage telling the DJ to start the song over cause I forgot the lyrics to my own song. Intoxication is a muthafucka! (Laughs)

What is the largest crowd you have played for?

Actually, I’d have to say it was this past Saturday night, January 10th. I opened up for Too Short and Webbie at Club Industry here in Indy and it was pretty dope. Easily 350-400 people there. Wouldn’t sound like a lot to some people, but after all, it’s Indianapolis, so you can only expect so much! (Laughs)

The smallest?

The smallest (thinks) there’s been a few shows that only a handful of people have shown up. Most of them were due to bad weather or just were poorly promoted. Ended up being mostly just the performers that came out. So realistically, I wouldn’t even consider that a show. It’d be more like a sound check with everybody actually there doing their full set. (Laughs)

Who is your biggest influence?

Musically, I can’t say there’s just one. I’ve been influenced by a lot of people. Jay-Z, Rakim, Big L, Little Brother, Joe Budden; the list is almost endless. A few of them are mainstream. Anybody that is lyrically sound and changed the game with their wordplay has been an influence to me because that’s my focus. I listen to music to hear what people have to say because ultimately, that’s what its about. Its about the artist putting out something they feel in a way that the masses can relate to, so anybody that does that and I can relate to them, they’ve been an influence to me.

If you were not rapping what would you be doing?

According to my mom, I’d probably be doing something I know I have no right doing. (Laughs) No, I’ve always been into computers. Web design, graphic design, stuff like that. Went to Purdue for it for a little while, but never got as deep into it as I really wanted to. Everything I do know about it is all self-taught. I know you do web and graphic design too, so we’ll have to talk. (Laughs)

What do you think of today’s pop rap music like 50 Cent and Lil’ Wanye?

I can’t knock them for doing what they do. Just like I said, music is about expressing yourself in a way that others can relate to. On some level, there’s someone out there that can relate to them, so that’s why they are where they are and move the units that they do. Personally, I don’t think they’re really saying anything with significant substance. They have certain songs or bars in songs that might stand out and catch my attention, but over all, I’d pick somebody that’s less mainstream with more of a message. It’d hit home for me more.

Have you written lyrics for anyone else?

Inadvertently, I have. (Laughs). The same guys I started rapping with when I first got going, we all did a song together. Well after a while, we kind of lost touch and went our separate ways. Couple years later, I found them on MySpace (of all places) and the song we did had my lyrics on it, but not my voice. Haha. I found it to be kinda flattering though. Just showed me that I was on top of my game even when I was a rookie. I’ve stepped its up a few notches though, so they can have that verse.

If you could tour with anyone in the industry right now who would it be?

Probably sounds cliché, but Jay-Z, but not for obvious reasons. In the past 12-13 years, he excelled, not only as an artist, but as a business man, and as a man in general and you could tell in his music. I’d go on tour with him just to pick his brain and get insight and knowledge. Hell, just watching “Fade to Black” every now and then does that, so I’m sure being on tour with him would take it to a completely different level.

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be and why?

Wow. Deep question. (Thinks) I’d have to say 2Pac just so he could tell me who shot him. (Laughs). No, seriously, I’d have to say Paul Laurence Dunbar. Famous African-American poet and author from the late 1800’s that bridged the racial gap at the time. He wrote in standard English dialect and “African-American” dialect, but was widely accepted for both. I’d want to meet him just to open my mind to understanding how he related to people on both sides, so to speak, especially during a time when segregation was so prominent and blacks were, in so
me eyes, inferior to whites. It’d be interesting to see things from his perspective.

You real name is not Jaecyn Bayne is it?

No, just my stage name. And it has absolutely no correlation to my government either. (Laughs). For a while though, I was heavy into watching freestyle battles. At the time, one of the top guys was Jae Millz. Well I liked how he spelled “Jae” and I was sitting one day wondering if anybody ever stretched it out. I played with the spelling and came up with “Jaecyn.” Bayne just sounded good on the end. (Laughs)

If you were told right now you were being given a $500,000 record deal but you had to sing someone else’s lyrics and it was a country album what would you say?

I wouldn’t do it. It’d defeat the purpose of music. I’d feel so Milli Vanili. (Laughs). But no, I just wouldn’t be true to me if I did. If I’m going to do music, I want to express my thoughts to people that can relate to me. I can listen to some country music, but for the most part, its not who I am or a part of how I became who I am, so no, I don’t think I could do that. Now if they threw Carrie Underwood and Faith Hill in the deal too, then I’d have some serious thinking to do! (Laughs).

Let’s play word association. Say the first thing that comes to your mind when you read these three words. Go.

Tiger Woods: Black athlete. His Asian side is what got him to Stanford. (Laughs). Just a little humor folks, don’t take offense.

Wal-Mart: The devil. The only place you can go for one thing and come out with a receipt saying you spent $75.03.

Peanut Butter: Reece cups. I swear, those things are the best thing since the last episode of “Friends.”

If you could live anywhere but here where would you go?

(Laughs) I’d have to say either Amsterdam or Italy. We won’t mention the reasons for Amsterdam, but I’d say Italy because just from how its portrayed on television and movies, I think it’d fit my personality to live there.

How did you celebrate your New Year’s Eve this year?

Well naturally, I spent it heavily intoxicated. That’s a given. (Laughs). But the Oxygen Lounge in Castleton had their grand opening that night and I performed there with Nate Davis from the Franchize and Lynda Sayyah. It was a pretty dope show too. Well, from the little that I remember and the stories I was told! (Laughs).

If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?

French fries. I could eat French fries on a full stomach on any given day. Been like that since I was little too. I’m the guy that will go to Denny’s, order a Grand Slam breakfast meal with a side of French fries.

PC or Mac?

I haven’t had a lot of experience with Macs, so I’d have to say PC. Macs are turning into the Bentleys of computers and I can’t afford a Bentley, so naturally I wouldn’t have a Mac either. (Laughs)

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

First off, I’d just like to thank you, Ricky, for the opportunity. It is much appreciated. Everybody that’s supported me and the many more to come, I won’t let you down. I’m going to keep doing what I do and give the people me in music form that they like and want to hear. Check out the MySpace at www.myspace.com/thejaecynbayne. Concrete Beats; I love all you all. No broke back! The Concrete Beats compilation album, “The Infrastructure” is coming soon. My mix tape, “Rhyme Hunger: The Appetizer” is coming soon as wekk. And look out for the Freeze and Jaecyn Bayne collaborative mix tape! Much love to all you all.

I am here today with the guys of 40% Steve. And no, I do not know where the other 60% went. (You would be shocked at how many times I get asked that. Imagine what they go through.) 40% Steve has been voted, by the students of Indiana University, as the best band in Bloomington for four consecutive years in a row. When you couple good old rock and roll songs, incredible musicians, and an industry standard voice up front, you can not help but love the sound that they produce when on stage. Being a featured band on the Indycocnerts.com Launch Party 40% Steve blew away the crowd like they always do. Playing a show pretty much every weekend you are sure to be able to catch these incredible performers live. Sit back and relax with me here as I introduce 40% Steve.

Do you guys get asked that? Where the other 60% of Steve is?

Yep, pretty much every show. In hindsight, naming the band after the members in it, especially when the longevity of the band was in question from the start, probably not a great idea. But we thought it was a hilarious name at the time and how did we know Steve #1 was going to leave to be a doctor?

How did you guys meet?

The original members met at Indiana University. Just randomly met through friends of friends, a fraternity and a connection through Aurora, Illinois. We have had a few different line ups to get us to the current one but everyone that has filled in for a departed member has been a friend.

Chris, tell me about your New Year’s Eve at the Masquerade Ball.

(Laughs) I was hammered. Taking a party bus is becoming one of my favorite things to do which is what some close friends and I did that night. I took a party bus to Tom Petty at Deer Creek last summer and it was awesome too. Eliminating the worry about how you are getting to and from a location allows you to consume more. If Petty comes back this year we are taking the Chicken Limo for sure.

So how did you come up the name 40% Steve?

Five guys and two guys were named Steve. We were playing in a friend’s basement with our first show at a bar in Bloomington coming up and we didn’t have a name. A bunch of people was still sitting in the basement at 5 A.M. or so and everyone just started throwing out name ideas. Everything sounded too serious for a cover band and then our friend Kyle said 40% Steve. It took everyone about 10 seconds to understand but then we all lost it and thought it was hilarious.

Have any of you non-Steve’s thought about changing your name? (Laughs)

When we had to find replacements when a few guys left we thought about trying to find someone named Steve as a joke. But it’s just funny to us now, a good story to tell. We are just a cover band; we don’t take it too seriously. We just like having our friends and fans show up to shows and get drunk with us and sing along. Thinking about the name is a good way for us to remember playing in basements. People used to get so fucking crazy at those shows. Just crazy blacked out.

What is your favorite cover song to play?

(Capper) King of the Rodeo by the Kings of Leon. (Joe) Feel Good Inc. by the Gorillaz. (Adam) Reptilia by The Strokes. (Steve) Alive by Pearl Jam.

Do you guys ever play any originals?

Not really. We don’t really even have that much original material but what we do have doesn’t fit in really well with the covers we do. If we ever did focus more on original material we would do it under a different band name. 40% Steve is just a rock cover band that enjoys getting drunk with their friends and fans.

What is like being voted the best band from one of the biggest schools in the state?

It’s awesome. I don’t think I personally have ever asked anyone to vote for us for that award so it’s great when it happens. And we have won the award four years in a row which is pretty cool too since we are all older now and a lot of our original fans don’t live down in Bloomington anymore. Just shows the students still appreciate what we are doing. On another note though, next year they should have separate awards for cover band and original band. There are a lot of great original bands down at IU. Prizzy Prizzy Please, Busman’s Holiday, Coke Dares, The Delicious, etc. They deserve to get recognition for what they do. We are all in this cover band because we love playing music. There is nothing better than being with friends watching live music. We go out as a band a lot to see live original music, Citizen Cope, Kings of Leon, Autovaughn etc. If we had a sax player we would totally cover Prizzy Prizzy Please. They are a great live act.

Do you guys ever play out side of the state of Indiana?

We do make it into Illinois every once and awhile. We play up at the Cubby Bear and Joe’s on Weed Street in Chicago. One of our favorite places to play is Mickey Finn’s in Libertyville, Illinois. Great bar atmosphere and the staff takes great care of us. Same with Crusens in Peoria. When the owners and staff of the bar take care of you and like when you come to town it makes it a lot of fun. We hopefully will start playing regularly again in Ohio and Kentucky but we will see. I do all of the booking for the band myself so I’m always looking for new places to play.

What is the biggest crowd you have ever played for?

Not sure. We play to 1,400 at the Bluebird once for Little 500. We did about that once at the Cubby Bear after a Cubs home game last season. But we have played a couple street festivals in the past with pretty large crowds as well.

The smallest?

We played in Evansville one time for three people. I guess with the bar staff it was probably seven or eight. But seriously three. The whole show. But it ended up being a hilarious and amazing time. Those three people ended up just coming on stage with us for most of the show dancing and taking shots. We ended up hanging out with those three people and stayed in a terribly small hotel. Somehow I managed to have Shrimp Scampi for breakfast around 5am before going to bed. Probably one of our favorite shows ever.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

(Capper) Some pasta. (Joe) A bowl of oatmeal. (Adam) Cherry power bar and a grapefruit. (Steve) A sandwhich at 11:30 A.M.

What are you guys drinking on stage?

(Capper) A Bud or a glass red wine. Sutter Home in a plastic bottle. I keep it classy. (Joe) A Bud or whiskey and Coke. (Adam) Jager bombs. (Steve) A Bud or Jim Beam and Coke.

You are about to headline a concert at Verizon Wireless Music Center. Who is your opener?

(Capper) I’m with Scarzo on this one, except Riverdance. The music is better. (Joe) Citizen Cope. (Adam Lord of the Dance, Michael Flattly. (Steve) Autovaughn.

If you could tour with one band out there right now who would it be?

(Capper) The Rolling Stones. I just
to see how they still do it and the crowd. (Joe) Kings of Leon. (Adam) Tenacious D. (Steve) Just Jack Black.

If you could meet anyone, alive or dead, who would it be and why?

(Capper) Sorry Joe, Bruce Lee, because he is the baddest ‘mofo’ ever. (Joe) Hendrix because he baddest ‘mofo ever’. (Adam) Jimi Hendrix cause I heard he had the best shit that hasn’t been stepped on. (Steve) Chris Farley.

Let’s play word association. Say the first thing that comes to your mind when you read the following words.

(Capper)

The Simpsons: Adam Scarzo
Blueberry pancakes: Could probably do without the Blueberries
Over roasted peanuts: Planters

(Joe)

The Simpsons: Homer
Blueberry pancakes: Breakfast
Over roasted peanuts: Peanut Butter

(Adam)

The Simpsons: Greatest show of all time
Blueberry pancakes: Needs a side of Pancake House bacon
Over roasted peanuts: It’s bulky but I consider it a carry on

(Steve)

The Simpsons: DOH!
Blueberry pancakes: Syrup
Over roasted peanuts: Fireplace

What do you guys want to be remembered for when it’s all said and done?

Just that we had a good time. People don’t remember cover bands too much but hopefully people that have seen a show or two just remember having a good time.

You guys always seem to have so much fun on stage. What is your motivation from night to night to keep rocking?

Mostly just a love of playing music in general. Plus the crowd. When they are into it, everything is easy. Getting paid to do something that is so much fun doesn’t hurt either.

What would you all be doing if it were not music?

(Chris) I guess just working more hours at the TV station. Maybe get more into photography. (Joe) Working for the government. (Adam) Doing something his parents would actually approve of probably. (Steve) Stripping. (Laughs) Just kidding. I would probably still be sitting at a bar somewhere in Bloomington.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

(Chris) Working in TV and film I hope. (Joe) Wishing I were 5 years younger. (Adam) Married to Steve’s mom.

If you could live anywhere else other than Indiana where would it be?

(Chris) Amsterdam, not cause of the drugs, its just beautiful there. (Joe) Anywhere warm. (Adam) Anywhere except Wisconsin. Fuck Wisconsin. (Steve) Seattle, Washington.

What are your favorite movies?

Tommy Boy, Shawshank Redemption, Big Lebowski, Dumb and Dumber, Blow, Space Balls, Uncle Buck, Pulp Fiction, Killer Clowns from Outer Space. We usually watch these when traveling from town to town.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

(Chris) Bear Down! (Joe) Maybe I should be a truck driver. Hey Mav, you know the name of that truck driving school? Truck Master I think it is. I might need that. (Adam) DONGPIECE! (Steve) I need a beer.

Apparently we are in a time of need. People are loosing jobs all over the place. Companies are cutting back their spending all over the place. Certain firms are forcing pay cuts and taking away paid time off and yearly raises. Some are even going completely to the opposite direction and filing for bankruptcy and ending it all. And according the previous and current presidents we are officially in a recession.

The price of food is going up. Corn, sugar, barley, beef, chicken, bread. The cost of a gallon of case has been on a roller coaster for the last two years hitting high’s over $5 a gallon. (It is currently bouncing around the $1.49-$1.79 mark.) People are traveling less. People are eating less. More coupons are being clipped and more savings accounts are being drained.

So what is the government doing about it? I mean, they are the ones that are in the end responsible. They control spending on a national level, they control the processing and production of money. They control the war we have spent over a trillion dollars on. They control every thing that is spent in one way or another. So what are they doing to help? They are giving a bailout. President Bush passed a $750 billion bailout. It did not help. He then, the last week he was in office, passed another $350 billion dollar bail out. Now, once Mr. Hope and Change has entered the office, he is looking at a $835 billion bailout to add to that. Now, correct me if I am wrong, but what in the hell are they going to accomplish by giving us all, say, $1,000 each?

That is a topic for another time. But know that your government wants to help is by bailing us out by pulling billions of dollars from somewhere. Where does that money even come from? Does anyone know? I have a guess and it begins with tax and ends with payers. I will personally, if this money ever does come, will just put the money in the bank. I am not going to go on a shopping spree and then a week later be right back to where I started.

But the reason for today’s post is not the state of our economy. It is not about the bail out that we will probably never see. It is about the way it is effecting one particular family. Today a man, who had once worked at a local L.A. hospital with his wife, walks into his home after sending a fax. He walks in, and opens fire. He shoots his wife, five children, and then himself. That is a total of 7 murders to welcome your Wednesday morning.

Both he and his wife were laid off from the same hospital. And he sent this 2 page types fax to a local news station to explain his plan. The news station was concerned, called 911, and by the time police showed up there was a murder scene in the making. All 7 have been identified and all pronounced dead at the scene.

Now, you have got to be kidding me here. I am only 25 years old and I am not even out of college yet (stop laughing) and I know that there has to be more behind this than simply him loosing his job. Of course I am on the side that says, sure, he and his wife were both job less and running out of money. I am also on the side of the fence that says 11 million other people are in the same boat as you. That number, however, is not that high. We are only at about 6.5% unemployment rate. Sure, we are not the lowest rate in the world, but that is not that high and not the highest it has been in the United States before. We were over 15% during the great depression.

My question and concern is what in the world was his justification to end everything over a lost job. He was 32 years old for God’s sake. And not only to take his own life, but to also take the life of his 5 children and his wife too?

The economy might be bad, sure. But it can’t be that bad that you have to go to such extremes. But the economy is in bad shape. I mean, I did have to wait in line for 45 minutes to get tickets to a movie last Saturday. Oh, and I had to wait almost an hour for a table at Olive Garden last week. So yeah, the economy is pretty bad.

I am sitting today with a band that I was first introduced to by a good friend of mine, Mr. Tyler Burgardt. You might remember Tyler as the acoustic act at the Indyconcerts.com Launch Party or in his interview with Indyconcerts.com under the stage name Jovian Mons. He saw these guys (and girls I should say) at a show long before I had ever heard of them and was blown away. And when I began listening to them I was too. Mixing a professional sound, a polished image, and experienced lyrics Eisley brings the whole package to your iPod. Sit with me today as I speak with the members of Eisley.

Is it just me or are you guys all related?

We are, but only because we we’re all cloned by the same scientist, Dr. Flogginstein.

You guys have been around for more than ten years. What is your motivation?

Our love of music. When you love something and discover you are somehow able to create it too, I don’t think anything can ever stop you. It becomes a part of who you are and if you don’t do it you become incomplete.

What keeps you going?

Coffee.

Who is the ring leader of the group?

It depends on what needs to be led, really. Everyone has their own role in the band. Everyone weighs in on the musical/creative aspect. When it comes to getting everyone to stop goofing off or when we’re supposed to be doing something important, I (Sherri) am usually the one who takes on that role, mostly because I can yell the loudest. (Laughs)

Who does most of the writing?

Stacy and I share that responsibility equally. We’ll write somewhere between 35 to 40 songs between us before a record and pick the best ones with the rest of the band, the label, management, pets and the occasional hobo walking by on the street.

Is it true? Is everything really bigger in Texas?

Yeah, we can never get used to it; when we go on tour and cross over into to a new state, It’s like “Wow, look at all these cute doll buildings and miniature human replicas” and then we realize it’s just Arizona or something.

What is like being from Tyler?

It’s like this. “What do ya’ll want to do?” “I dunno, what you wanna do?” “Go to Starbucks?” “Yeah, I guess” “Crap, I don’t have any money.” “Shoot, me neither.” “Wanna just go and sit there?” “Sure.” “My life sucks.” Just kidding. It’s kind of like living in an episode of The Gilmore Girls except without all the fast paced talking because everyone’s too bored to think that quick. We love it though. We grew up here, so it will always be “Home Sweet Home”.

Where do you guys practice?

Practice? Is that like those little break sticks that come with the cheese dip? Just kidding. We’ve been rehearsing (when we actually do) as of late, in the studio where we’re about to track our third album at Rosewood Studio here in Tyler.

You guys have toured with a lot of big acts. Who was your favorite?

I think no matter how many bands we ever tour with we’re always going to have to say Coldplay, because we freaking love that band and I don’t even know why they let us do the tour, but it was our first tour and so fun so It will always have the most meaning to me.

What is the largest crowd you have ever played for?

I’m thinking perhaps the V-Fest in the U.K. It looked like people for miles. So, it was because The Cardigans and Coldplay we’re after us. So, so what?

The smallest?

Definitely a show somewhere on South Padre Island. One of our first shows ever. We played for the opening band and vise versa. It was literally the low point of our career. The fluorescent lights buzzing over our heads as the other band (made up of men and women in their late 30′s) looked on from the row of folding chairs. Arms crossed, faces blank, as their feet sweated in their Trecker sandals.

Your dad is your manager. Does it help or hurt having the whole family involved?

It helps. Who is going to watch your back better than your own flesh and blood? I make sound like we’re in the Mafia or something.

Your image matches your sound to perfection. Did that come first or with the music?

The two are essentially one in the same. Not to sound barfy or cliche’ but if you’re creating something; it’s basically a reflection of yourself. We don’t try to come off a certain way, nor do we try to write music a certain way. It’s just ourselves, being ourselves, writing our music, ourselves.

You guys have had a ton of media coverage. What has been the coolest piece of media coverage you have received?

I’d have to go with being on the Conan O’Brien show. We’ve always been huge fans of his show and his sense of humor so we we were super excited (and super nervous) the night we performed. All I remember thinking was “Ohmygosh, I want a redo”. I was so nervous I could hardly sing.

What is Conan like?

Tall as a redwood tree.

Tell me what it is like being on a major label.

It’s both wonderful and frustrating just like any relationship. It’s a partnership and you sometimes get on each others nerves but you also love each other and help each other. Someone once told us “Love your label”, and it’s true. You have to respect them and they’ll respect you.

If you could tour with any one band in the market right now who would it be?

Say Anything! (we love their music, and also, I’m engaged to Max. It’s a win win situation).

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be and why?

My answer to this question is and will forever be (unless I actually meet the guy, not likely) Sir Paul McCartney. He’s basically been the leader of my musical inspiration and songwriting since I picked up a guitar and started teaching myself Beatles songs. Stacy has always been more of a Lennon girl but me? A Paul girl through and through.

Who does your graphic design?

Dad. Pops. Foffee. Dad-dad-daddy-o. Call him what you will. It’s Boyd DuPree, the father of me. The father of us, and not Garron.

When should we expect the third record?

We start recording in March so this year even late Summer or early Fall hopefully!

Let’s play word association. What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you read these three words? Go.

Blanket: My brother (and drummer) Weston had a “blankie” growing up that he called “Robey” (as it was made from someone’s old robe). I think he still has a shred of it hanging in his room. It’s satin and turquoise. Don’t ask me why I thought of that.
Panic: “… At the Disco”.
Roller coa
ster: “Me first”

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Still rockin’, still rollin’. Hopefully with a little more pocket change so that we can do it for another 25 years.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all over?

When I look at people like Paul McCartney and James Taylor, they’re so inspiration because they don’t have to write music anymore, but they still do because they love it more than anything. And they’re still making music that is inspiring kids our age. I hope we can be that band for some people.

What are you drinking on stage?

Water. Are you kidding’ me?

We are ordering pizza. What toppings?

You can’t go wrong with a classic piece of pepperoni but I’m extremely partial to pineapple and Canadian bacon. I know Stacy likes just cheese or veggie, Weston’s favorite is chicken and broccoli. Chauntelle and Garron I’m not sure about. We’re all of the mind that any pizza is good pizza.

Let’s do lunch. How does Panera sound?

Sounds like I’m ordering the Turkey Artichoke Panini.

I want soup? Do I upgrade to the bread bowl for a $1 more?

If you’re not getting the sandwich, why not?

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

I am sitting here with a band that if you have not heard of shame on you. Malbec, from L.A., comes to the scene with an image, a sound, and a feel that is hard to surpass. Malbec mixes industry standard lyrics, intense sounds behind genius vocals, and a common ground of passion in their purpose, and a determination to getting to where they deserve to be. Sit with me today as I introduce you to an un unstoppable force in Malbec.
How did you guys all meet?

Pablo and I met each other studying classical guitar at Indiana University. I decided to move back to California (my home state) at the same time Pablo was moving to L.A. to pursue a songwriting career. He was living in L.A. and I was up in the bay area. We started writing together and at the same time he was introduced to Sid through a mutual friend in L.A. They started writing together and worked on adding electronic beats and synths to a some acoustic songs Pablo had been recording. When I heard what they were doing together I decided to move down to Southern California. Sam and Pablo were also friends from Indiana and she moved out to play bass in the band. Mark was introduced to us by another friend of ours. He was moving out to L.A. to go to film school but we kidnapped him!

When did you guys realize that music was something you wanted to pursue?

As a band, since its inception. From the moment we started we have had the same determination and drive.

Who is the ring leader of the group?

We don’t have a ring leader persay however we definately have different roles. However I would say Pablo since he is the life of the party. We call it Pablo Mania!

So why L.A.?

Why did we all move here? I guess that’s just how the fates conspired.

What is like living in L.A. being in such a competitive industry?

It can be very very difficult but also vitally important to our success. Pressure like that can force you to work harder than you ever have and challenge you to find who you really are as a band and as individuals. There is always someone telling you what you need to do or not do, or sound like or not sound like. At the end of the day you have to learn to be clear and focused on your musical direction.

Is MySpace good or bad for musicians?

Great! It allows for social networking as well as convenient way to keep up to date with your fans.

Where did you guys come up with the name Malbec?

Truthfully we were having a difficult time coming up with a name. I mean we tried hundreds of names with nothing we could agree on. Pablo had just gotten back from Argentina at the time and suggested the name Malbec, the “national” wine of Argentina. His cousin owns a Bodega down there. We felt it not only sounded cool but also represented a part of some of the members heritage. Pablo’s parents are from Argentina as well as part of Sam’s family.

Do you drink Malbec wine?

Definitely. Pablo more than the rest of us. Coincidentally we found out the term “Malbec mouth” refers to the purple shade ones teeth turns when drinking wine.

Any tattoos in the band?

Actually quite a few. I won’t say all but I will name some of the highlights. Sam has a very large Hebrew tattoo on her lower back. Sid has a lightning bolt on his outer for arm and Mark has a plaid duck on his butt cheek!

Who has the most?

Mark.

Your image matches your sound very nicely. Did that come before or after the music?

I guess that has always been a work in progress. The longer we do it the more comfortable we have with our sound and our image. It’s so important to be creative as you can and always challenge each other but also be yourself.

Who writes all the lyrics?

Pablo. The answering machine was both Pablo and I.

Where are you all from?

Pablo is from Detroit, Sid from Los Angeles, Sam is from Indianapolis, Mark is from Orlando and I am from Oakland.

Who did your logo?

Windigo International.

Did you pay them a lot because that is a damn near perfect branding.

They actually did our very first merchandise line and that was part of the design. It worked perfectly. Amazing amazing designers and even better people.

Is the rumor mill true? You did a song for Fruit of the Loom?

We, as Malbec, did not write that song but Pablo did sing the song. It’s called Blue written by the Wojan brothers.

You guys don’t pick on Sam too much do you?

No. She is the self described frat mom so she keeps us more in line than we do pick on her!

Who filmed that awesome music video on your MySpace page?

All of our videos are filmed and edited by Mark. We are so lucky to have him as both a musician and as a pure creative talent.

So I think Dawn of Our Age might be the best song you ever write. Who is responsible for that?

That song was actually a beat that Sid had written. Just an A and B section. I was fooling around in the studio and wrote a couple of weird guitar parts that worked really well with Sid’s syths. Pablo wrote some melodies and lyrics and it all just kinda came together. This is a very common way that we write.

What are you drinking on stage?

Water. Always water

What is the largest crowd you have ever played for?

Opening for One Republic at the House of Blues in LA. There were 2,500 there.

The smallest?

1 or 2 people.

Any chance we will see you in town this year?

Definitely! We love coming back to Indy and the greater Midwest. Best fans for sure!

What are the plans for a tour?

Currently we are releasing 5 EPS over 5 months. Called the Answering Machine EPS. It started December 1st and will continue till April. They are free to download off our website at malbectheband. com. They are being written as we go so we are currently very busy. After we finish the plan is to spend the rest of the year touring.

You are about to order pizza. Thick of thin crust? Sausage or pepperoni?

Thin with bacon.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Hopefully putting out music that is still releavent and fresh.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

A band that did it our way. A band that always made great music and was never genre specific.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Thanks for taking the time to reach out to us. Come download all the new stuff at malbectheband. com

This past Sunday a girl’s high school basketball coach was fired for apparently not apologizing to the team that his girl’s beat 100-0. He was fired on Sunday, the same day he had sent an email to a local newspaper stating that he was not going to apologize to the other team for the victory.

And guess who disagrees with that decision? I do, that’s who. What in the world are you going to use as a reason to fire someone from a job that they are obviously good at (or the girl’s are all monsters. I mean, things are usually bigger in Texas.) This man led his team to the court, played a clean game of basketball, and simply out played (on a whole new level of the word) the other team. So why in the hell should he be expected to apologize. And for what? “Oh, you are right. I am sorry. I did not mean to win the basketball game. I meant for you to have a chance. I am sorry that your team did not score.”

However, on the other hand, I can see where he is a touch wrong here. This would be compared to a team, say the Colts, playing a game where they are up by three or four touchdowns. At that point the coach, or the players them selves, will take the star players out and let the lower end players get a chance. There is absolutely no reason to run up the score. Once this team got to about thirty or forty to zero there should have been some backing down from the players. But are they wrong? No, they are just entering the side of the fence on cocky.

But fired? I mean, come on now. Yeah, he made a mistake. He should perhaps tell the other team that he is sorry for the national attention that has now befallen the loosing team. They are getting just as much attention for loosing as the team that won is for doing just that. But take away his job for that?

This reminds me of a situation that I once lived. I was a resident assistant at Marian College when I was there playing golf. It was my sophomore year and I knew that my personality style fit. I was a people person, I was always looking for an excuse to lead, and I got my own room. It was a winning situation for all those involved. However, I used the power a little too much to my advantage.

You can ask my good friend Jason Cornman about this night but I was at his apartment drinking and having a good time with some friends. The next Monday I was fired for drinking one, under age, and two, on school property. Yes, Marian is a dry campus. (And how stupid is that? A dry campus?) But I was not fired for drinking according to the final decision. I was fired for my status that I placed on my Facebook account. I had written something to the effect, “Partying at Jason’s.” Long story short I was fired for the use of social networking. I used a public means to promote a feeling and was relieved of my duties because of that.

So was this email the reason he was fired? I mean, how would they have known he refused to apologize had they not had a copy of the email? The email is where he denied his will to apologize. Does that bring in the idea of privacy and how he should not be fired due to something they have nothing but an email address as for proof?

I think that there is something more in this story. There is more to the reason why he was fired. I mean, no offense, look at him. He does not look like someone I would want coaching my kid. (Yes, that was a trick question.)

What are your thoughts? Should he have been fired? Would you, as a coach, back your players down or try to set an obvious record for the largest win? Who should be held responsible if it is not him? This could get interesting if he decides to pursue this further.

I am here today with a band that is making some noise in the Midwest with their rock and roll attitude and catchy lyrics. A band that you might not have heard of, but will be glad you did, can always seem to pack the house when they are doing a live show. Playing all over the Midwest including the Indianapolis area as well as Terre Haute and Evansville, Philpot is a must see event. Mixing incredible vocals and a polished set of instrumentals behind them you have a combination for success. Learn a little bit about Philpot with me here today.

Where did the name Philpot come from?

Off of a t-shirt my grandmother had given to me.

How did you guys all meet?

We’re all from Sullivan or Greene County so it was pretty easy to find one another through our love of music.

When did you know that you wanted to take a run at this thing we call music?

After we wrote our first song. Writing has inspired us all to work harder.

Do you guys have full time jobs or is music it?

It’s just music for us thank God.

You play a lot of shows in the area. Any place you like to play more than another?

We started out playing at the Verve in Terre Haute. It’s become sort of like a second home for us. I have a long history with the Verve in Terre Haute.

What do you guys like about that venue that keeps you going back?

The atmosphere is great, the crowds are always big and the owner and the employees are always very hospitable.

You have a pretty big following in the Terre Haute area. How did that get started?

We landed a gig there when we first started out. I think because we were and still are very original people become drawn to us.

You have a pretty solid image. Did that come before or after the music?

Half and half I would say.

What is the biggest crowd you have ever played for?

The Rave in Milwaukee when we opened for the Kings Of Leon.

The smallest?

Crowds tend to be smaller when school is out.

What did you guys have for dinner last night?

I think it was spaghetti. Yes it was spaghetti because I had it again tonight. (Laughs)

Any tattoos in the band?

Our bass player Tyler Evans has a few and our guitarist Josh Kennedy has one.

Who has the most?

Tyler

You are told you are only allowed to play one cover song for the rest of your career. What one do you choose?

“Ohio” by CSNY. We do it well. If anyone is interested in listening to it they can go to our myspace.com/philpottheband and take a listen. It’s also available for download on amazon.com and itunes.com

PC or Mac?

I have a PC but I’d rather have a Mac. Some people I know swear by them.

If you could tour with any band right now who would it be?

Black Rebel Motorcycle Club in my opinion would be a great to open for.

Let’s say you are about to headline a show at Madison Square Garden. Who is your opener?

Beta Band if they ever decide to give it another shot. They broke up last I heard.

Where in the world is Dugger?

Dugger is a small town about two hours south of Indianapolis between Sullivan and Linton, Indiana.

What is it like being from such a small town?

It’s nice. It’s definitely not as face paced as living in the city and almost everyone knows one another.

Tell me about your deal with Toucan Cove.

Toucan Cove is a label that signed us while we were playing a gig in Switz City, Indiana one night. We had no idea that we would be playing for a record executive that night so it was pretty wild once we were approached after the show. The guy flew all the way from L.A. to see us in a bar very different from what he was normally used to.

Where do you guys practice?

In a building my family owns in Dugger.

What is the one thing you guys want to be remembered for?

Great original rock n roll. And we are prepared to tour as much we can to spread it.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Thank you for this opportunity and to the readers who took the time to get to know a little bit about our band. We look forward to playing either on stage in front of you or through your radio. Hit us up on our MySpace, Facebook, or Reverbnation. We answer all of our messages sent from fans.