rickyleepotts …an opinionated realist

It is rare to find a band who brings light to the meaning of talent. But the band that I am sitting with today does that and then some. Not only do they look and sound like they need to be on center stage at Warped Tour, but they also sound like they belong on the radio and on your iPod. These guys are from Indianapolis, Indiana and I cannot believe that it took me this long to find out about them. They scream here and there, which I usually do not like, but it is so well done that it is hard not to fall in love with it. Their lyrics are very educated and as far as I can tell come from real life situations. Sit back, relax, and get to know the guys in Ironsides.

Where did you guys all meet?

Guitar Center, Facebook, and theft of a guitar player from another band.

How long have you been playing together?

Oh…almost two years.

I am digging the MySpace page. Who designed that?

Mister Lawrence Rosinko.

Speaking of MySpace, what are your thoughts on the service?

Yes?  We love our fans, and love that they can love us via MySpace.

Are you guys on Twitter?

Josh and Robby are both on Twitter and would love to be followed, @josh9288 and @veryelaborate, respectively.  Nic has one as well but Josh and I are the only ones with the password. (Laughs)

Where did you come up with that band name?

The name of the band before was The Last Word and then Robby joined, we wrote all new music and decided that we needed a new band name.  Things were tossed around for a while and then Robby chimes in with “Hey guess what, we are called Ironsides now.”

Who is the ringleader of the band?

Well that is a bit complicated; we split it up.  Nic handles the money, Josh handles the MySpace and all that, and Robby is just…kinda…weird.

Describe your genre in one word.

Ambibrutal.

Where do you guys practice?

Casa De Ironsides, up in Carmel.  Want to hang out later?

Do you have a favorite venue?

We love any venue full of people.

Do you guys have jobs outside of music?

Indeed we do.  Nic is your friendly neighborhood Jimmy John’s driver, Josh is getting pretty good at getting fired, Robby is on welfare, Butters is in high school, and Zek cleans windows.

Who is doing all of that screaming?

That would be Josh.

Who has the most tattoos?

Robby, with four…we need more tattoos.

Tell me about White Horse Entertainment.

White Horse Entertainment is run by our good buddy Joshua “Lego” Lohrman.  He is everywhere, at every show, and sometimes he is on our couch when we come home eating Cheetos.

What are you drinking on stage?

Water, Gatorade, Monster Energy Drinks, and sometimes coffee.

What is the biggest crowd you have ever played for?

Cornerstone for sure.

The smallest?

Here is a story for you:  Josh and Robby were commissioned a while back to do a one off acoustic show at a café in Illinois.  No one showed up and we played to the guy that owned the place and his wife.  Until she left, and then he got a phone call.  We ended up playing to a 100% empty room.

If you could tour with anyone in the market right now who would you guys pick?

Oh Sleeper.  Love those guys.  Cool dudes.

You have a very Warped Tour style of sound. Have you ever thought about trying to get on any of those dates?

We have tossed the idea around; maybe next year.

Do you guys play outside of Indianapolis a lot?

As much as possible.  We hit Illinois a lot.  They seem to like us there.

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

Canada! They give bands government money!

How did you guys react to the passing of the King of Pop?

Consequently we received news of his passing while we were on our way to the acoustic show mentioned in a previous question.  We like to think that his spirit filled the empty room as we dedicated that show to him.

Where can I get some of your merchandise?

Come to a show! We want to see your faces.

Who does all the songwriting?

Most of that falls on Josh.  He brings a song idea, everyone plays around, with it, bada bing bada boom, Ironsides.

PC or a Mac?

Mac.

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

Willie Nelson, Our Army of K-9s, and Hannah Montana.

If you could only play one song for the rest of your life, which song would you choose?

The Finisher by Oh Sleeper.  We are listening to it right now.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

On the road,  assuming Robby lives that long.  He does foolish things like picking fights with bears and jungle cats.

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

That we made good music.

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

Pewp.

The band that I am sitting with today needs no introduction. They bring to the stage a sound that is nearly impossible to replicate and a certain style that deserves some attention. They are dressed exactly how they sound, their album cover matches their style to perfection, and their sound begs for more. If I had to rate them on a scale of 1 to 10 as far as their overall image and branding is concerned, I would give them an 11. Sharing the stage with bands like the Sick Puppies, Breaking Benjamin, and Chevelle, they are getting invaluable exposure and are selling records as fast as they can produce them. They are touring the United States and are winning fans in every corner of the globe with their hit single Eyesore. Their name is unique, their style is fitting, and the talent is impressive. It is my absolute pleasure to introduce you to the next big thing in rock music, Janus.

Where in the world did you come up with that name?

Janus is a Roman god of gates and beginnings and is depicted as a figure with two faces, one looking forward to the future and the other looking back to the past.  Honestly, we just thought it sounded cool, but it really encapsulates how we approach songwriting.  We’re always looking at what we’ve done in the past to learn and build on what we’re going to do in the future.

How long have you all been together?

This lineup has been together about three and a half years.

When did you first decide you wanted to give this a music thing a run for its money?

I’ve wanted to be in a band since I was thirteen years old.  Writing, recording and performing our songs is the best thing I can imagine doing.  This is actually the first band I’ve had where I felt like we had something special.

Where do you guys practice?

We practice in Chicago , but we’ve been on the road so much we don’t practice anymore.  The shows are our practice now.

I love your album cover. Who designed that?

Thanks!  Our singer David Scotney designed all of the artwork.  Everything you see from the album to the website to the merch is created by him.

You guys are doing some pretty heavy touring right now. What do you like about being on the road every night?

Playing shows and meeting fans is the best.  That’s the fun part.  Everything else is some kind of business or logistical task.  It’s just the four of us out here on the road, so we wear a lot of different hats.

What is like being on the road with Chevelle?

The Chevelle tour has been amazing!  Those guys have been really nice and super helpful with everything.  We actually crashed our van and trailer in a snowstorm traveling from Pennsylvania to Ohio , and Chevelle took our gear to the next town so we could get the trailer fixed up.  Other than that, we’ve had some really candid conversations around the music business/touring/etc., and the path they’ve taken.  Very insightful.

Where can I get some Janus merchandise?

You can get Janus merchandise at our shows or our online store.

Wait wait wait, you are going on the road with the Sick Puppies too? Do you ever quit?

Not really! (Laughs)  The best thing we can be doing for this band right now is touring.  There are still a lot of markets we haven’t been to yet and a few key markets we’ve only been to once or twice.  Despite the radio and Internet, you really have to do a lot of touring before people really know who you are.

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

Right now it would be “Eyesore.”  I love seeing people getting rowdy in the crowd.  It would be great to see that forever.

Who writes all of the lyrics?

Our singer David writes all of the lyrics.

Is there a ringleader in the band?

That depends on the day.  I’m not sure anyone is really “in charge.”

What are you guys drinking on stage?

Beer or water.  I usually bring something on stage to drink and never touch it.  I feel weird about that…like people came to see us play not stand here and drink.  Less drink more rock!

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

Portland, Oregon.

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

It’s got its pros and cons.  You have to have a MySpace page as a band at this point, but it can’t be the only thing you have.  I think people are so sick of bands on MySpace at this point, because they are constantly bombarded by messages and bulletins.  Being obnoxious will only earn you so many fans.

Are you guys on Twitter?

Yes we are!  You can find the band account, Mike’s account, David’s account, Johnny’s account, and even Al’s account on Twitter!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?

I stepped on a cord while running across the stage and slid like five feet almost taking out the drum kit.  That could have been disastrous.

How did you react to the passing of Michael Jackson earlier last year?

Michael Jackson’s music was phenomenal.  His persona creeped me out though, and I grew more and more distant to him and his music over the years.  Still, I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing.

How cool is it being featured on MTV with the Headbanger’s Ball?

Amazing!   Been a fan of the show for a long time, so it was cool to do something I’ve seen some of my favorite bands do over the years.

Do you guys have a favorite venue to play?

I don’t have a favorite venue, but I did really enjoy playing the Riviera in Chicago recently.  Up until that point, I’ve only seen shows there so getting a chance to stand on that stage in front of a sold-out house was amazing.

What is largest crowd that you have ever played for?

Probably somewhere around 3,000.

The smallest?

Probably ten people.  We happened to be touring Tennessee and Kentucky right around the same time they were getting show storms.  They never get snow, so one inch of snow and the town shuts down.

Who are some of your influences?

I’m a huge Deftones fan.  I grew up listening to mostly heavy music though, so I draw influences from rock and metal.  I’ve been listening to a lot of old Pantera records lately and Lamb of God.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Hopefully we’re on our forth or fifth record at that point and not driving around in a van to all these  shows.  I’d like to continue making music for as long as possible.

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

If we can connect with people through our music then that’s all we need.  It’s what we’ve wanted to do our whole life.

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

Stop.  (Laughs)

The guy I am sitting with today has some serious talent that you just can’t afford to miss. He brings not only raw talent to the stage in his guitar playing abilities, but his songwriting is some of the best I have ever heard. Not to mention that he is one of the nicest and most humble guys in the music industry. He works his butt off producing music and tours every chance that he gets. I have a hard time fitting him into a genre, but all across the board he produces some incredible music. I first met this guy at a hole in the wall bar here in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana. He was sitting in the corner playing on his computer when I first saw him and he has left an impression on me every since. (Perhaps it was the John Deere hat he was wearing.) With a list of influences a mile long it is hard to compare this guy to anyone else in the industry. But regardless, it is time to sit back, relax, and get to know the man that is Ryan Horne.

What is your first memory of the guitar?

Picking up my fathers old Martin and turning it upside down and trying to play it. I am left handed and I knew then and there that I would buy a left handed guitar.

How long have you been performing?

Starting performing with a band I played and sang with in high school. Starting making a living playing music in 2004.

Do you have a job outside of music?

I do not. I am able to play music for a living these days and it works.

Do you write all your own lyrics?

Most of the time but as of late I have been doing a lot of co-writing with other artists and writers. Creatively, it is so much fun to have different perspectives.

Where do you get inspiration for a new track?

Everywhere. That is a tough question to answer because you can see a man walking the streets and get inspired to write. So many things inspire new tracks.

Where are you originally from?

I am from Marietta, Georgia. It is a suburb of Atlanta.

How do you like it down there in Atlanta?

I like it more and more and we are starting to bring the Atlanta music scene together and make it more into a community.

What is your favorite venue to play?

The Workplay Theatre in Birmingham, Alabama.

What is the largest crowd that you have ever played for?

Probably around 2,000.

The smallest?

Probably around 5. (Laughs)

What is your opinion on MySpace?

It is dirty now with all the ads and all the strippers, not a huge fan but I love Facebook.

Are you on Twitter?

Yes, I am on Twitter at @ryanhornemusic.

How did you react to the news about Michael Jackson?

Not much of a reaction; just thought he had some great tunes.

How many albums do you have out now?

About to release my fifth record but I do not sell the first two anymore; I don’t like them.

Where can I get some Ryan Horne merchandise?

You can get merchandise on my website.

Describe your genre in one word.

Americana.

Tell me a little bit about the new record.

A collection of tracks that I enjoy. Focus is on the songwriting (the melodies, the lyrics). Has a little more of a southern rock plavor to it on some songs.

Do you have a favorite song on the record?

Yes, Hell To Pay. It is about a shooting I witnessed in Atlanta.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

So many to name. Bob Dylan, The Beatles, Martin Sexton, Ryan Adams, Patty Griffin, etc. Too many to list. Lots of great artists and songs out there.

Tell me a little bit about Patchwork Records.

Home grown. A project I started in college. Not much else to say about it right now.

Who would win in a pillow fight between Nathan Angelo and Micah Dalton?

Hard to say, they would be pretty even.

What are you drinking on stage?

Usually water.

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

Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen.

Is there any song that you play in every set?

Yes, 4th of July which will be on the new record that is coming out December 8th.

If you were told that you only have a week to live how would you spend your last seven days?

Traveling to places around the world that I have never been to.

If you could tour with anyone in the market right now who would you choose?

Patty Griffin or Martin Sexton.

What would you be doing if you were not performing?

I would be an engineer in a studio. I have a degree in Recording from MTSU.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Still putting out records, still traveling and playing.

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

All of the songs that I have written. I want to write 1,000’s of great songs.

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

The new album is coming December 8th! (Note that this interview was conducted prior to the release of his latest album.)

The guy that I am sitting with today was first introduced to me by a coworker. I received an email from Ryan Mull, managing partner at IMAVEX, and he said that the two of us should meet. He was copied on the email and Ryan also made mention that I was doing interviews with artists all over the world. The interviews are done either in person, via email, or over Twitter and he decided that Twitter seemed like the more appropriate solution. (The in person interviews tend to get a little out of control. Sure, I can type as fast as someone speaks but it is hard keeping up when trying to have a conversation as well as capture every moment that I can while chatting.) So, we connected on Twitter and quickly realized that we needed more than 140 characters to get our thoughts across. So we moved from Twitter to email. Both collections of questions and answers are here in this blog. So sit back, relax, and get to know Kristian Andersen.

(For those of you that do not know how Twitter works, messages that start with @kristianindy are messages from me to the artist.  Messages that start with @rickyleepotts are his responses.  I have set a limit to 140 characters for this interview and all questions and answers must fit in 1 single tweet.  All of the messages you see have not been edited and are exactly as I received them. Also note that #RLPTV was an attempt to create a trending topic on Twitter with this interview. It also allows for users to search and find my content.)

Let’s start this interview with @kristianindy! Tell me, @kristianindy, what is it that you actually do for a living? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts My team and I work with our clients to help them develop their brand, product, and business strategies. We call it BXD.

@kristianindy How many people are on your team? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts We have 7 full time employees (including myself) and a couple of part-timers – http://bit.ly/7CPOIz #RLPTV

@kristianindy I LOVE that you just used a bit link. How concerned are you with traffic on your link shares? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts How concerned am I? Um…I guess not very. Should I be? #RLPTV

@kristianindy In my opinion VERY. I obsess over traffic to my link shares. Same as my analytics report. So are you a #Colts fan?

@rickyleepotts Yeah – my primary analytics report is my monthly P&L statement. Season ticket holder for 10+ years. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No kidding? That is awesome. Do you like the new stadium?

@rickyleepotts The new stadium is great in most regards –1 of the best in the NFL. Better than that strip club the Cowboys call home.

@kristianindy I do not even watch football to be honest. You appear to be an educated man! Where did you go to college? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts It sounds like your a golf guy. I graduated with a degree in Design from Anderson University, in Anderson, IN. #RLPTV

@kristianindy I am in fact a golf guy. Are you? I can see you on the course! So what is this I hear about you living in Arkansas?  #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts What did Mark Twain say about golf again? – http://bit.ly/86vwJi . I split time between my homes in Arkansas and Indy. #RLPTV

@kristianindy I enjoy some MT but I really like those bit links! & I want to have multiple homes! So, what is your favorite “brand”? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts This short-form interview format is tricky isn’t it? #RLPTV

@kristianindy I like it though! It makes you think about your response. I would be more than happy to do an email interview if you rather?

@rickyleepotts No way. This is interesting. Keep ‘em coming. #RLPTV

@kristianindy That’s the spirit! You have worked with some pretty impressive clients. Who is your favorite? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts We’re really proud of our affiliation with all of our clients. We try 2 only work w/ clients where there is a mutual respect.

@rickyleepotts Currently we’re really excited about @FormSpring @exacttarget and @rewardsnap

@kristianindy What is one thing every brand has in common? #RLPTV

@rickyleepotts The fact that, in spite of what they might like to believe, they are not (exclusively) in control of their brands. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No no, I know but just in your experience with brands. Think Apple, McDonald’s, Target. What do they have in common? #RLPTV?

@rickyleepotts You mean great/successful brands. Successful brands all have a simple, differentiated, and focused value proposition. #RLPTV

@kristianindy No no no, you did quite well! I always let the bands that I interview get the last word. So, you too! GO! #RLPTV

(*This is where the interview went from Twitter to being handled via email.)

I see that you have worked with Smaller Indiana. The logo on their website does not link. That bothers me as a designer and as someone who wants websites that I visit to be user friendly. However, every time that I try to contact someone from there I am NEVER replied to. I am handling it in a very professional manner. It is honestly leaving a very sour taste in my mouth. What are your thoughts on a website that has a logo that does not link to the home page?

I’m sorry to hear that you are not getting a response from the gang over at Smaller Indiana. They are an amazing group and have done an enormous service for the Indy business community. With that being said, I’m obviously a proponent of adhering to best practices when designing for the web.

Where do you see the Internet in ten years?

I don’t think we will see it. In ten years it (the Internet) will be so ingrained and embedded in our lives that it will become invisible. The end game is truly ubiquitous networking.

What is your biggest challenge working with brand management?

I think it’s getting clients to understand that you can’t control a brand via brute force. It’s like raising a teenager. If you just lock them in their room and try to exert total control, they will rebel and you’ll end up with the opposite of what you intended. Conversely, if you just let them go and provide no supervision or support the outcome could, and often will, be equally bad. Managing brands is about finding the right balance between control and chaos.

Your team, based on what I see on the website anyway, looks more like fashion models than brand experts. Do you encourage that atmosphere in the office?

(Laughs) We just have a great photographer. But I will say that often times really great designers tend to have refined aesthetic sensibilities that transcend their professional life and manifest in lots of other ways…including fashion. We definitely take image seriously, it’s a profound part of our business. I don’t want to take fitness advice from someone that is in worse shape than me.

Out of Twitter, Facebook, and a blog which do you find has the most potential for the future of social media?

I have a hard time separating them. They are all just digital channels. I rarely think of those three “products” in a vacuum. Ultimately, I think Facebook is built to last, because their business is built on data. Blogs are a really just a publishing platform, but I don’t think they are going away either. Twitter is in front right now, because they are filling a huge need around “instant” – instant search, instant gratification, instant gossip, etc. 2010 will be the year of instant/real time, so I expect Twitter to flourish in the short term.

Who would play you in a Hollywood film about your life?

I’ve always said Ethan Hawke. But the rest of world seems to think Stifler (Seann William Scott) would be a more appropriate fit.

The names of your children intrigue me. Can you explain how you and your wife came up with those names?

My oldest daughter, Scout Belle, was named after the character in “To Kill A Mockingbird”. We named our middle daughter Daisy Jane, just because we thought it was a beautiful name, but there is also a literally connection to “The Great Gatsby” as well. Finally, my youngest is boy named Indiana Olav – we call him Indy. That is really my way of paying homage to Indiana and acknowledging how great that community has been to me and my family.

Any words of advice for a young guy like myself who wants to be on that list of the “Forty under 40″?

I think the fundamentals of success are fundamental. There is no secret sauce. I think it is a matter of working hard, being humble, serving others, and creating value. If I could add one thing that is often left off of that list it would be – being visible. Make sure that you are communicating to “your audience” in a way that is engaging and make sure that they know what you are up to. If you’re generating value…they’ll want to know.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In a perfect world my life would look very similar to the way it does today. I would hope that my family is healthy and happy and that my businesses have continued to enjoy some level of success. I just want an opportunity to keep doing what I’m doing…which is what I love.

Do you think Lady Gaga has talent or she is all hype?

You’re asking the wrong guy. I listen to country (mostly classic country) music almost exclusively.

So how do you know Ryan Mull, managing partner at IMAVEX?

That’s a good question. If memory serves correctly we met a long, long time ago when he was at MarchFirst and I was doing consulting for one of their clients, a company called Healthx.

I always let the artist get the last word. (Yes, I consider Kristian an artist.) Go!

You’re doing good work and building a heck of a personal brand. Keep at it.

The band that I am sitting with today comes from a genre that we just can’t seem to get enough of. Going back to the early days of guys like Green Day moving into the future with bands like Fall Out Boy these guys are a pure mix of solid sound with educated and experienced lyrics. Wearing shirts so bright they beg to be turned down and with vocals that fit on the headlining stage at Warped Tour, these boys know how to get you out of your seat. So, this summer, when trying to find a new band or a concert to go see, consider traveling to see these guys. It is my absolute pleasure to introduce you to the guys in Friday Night Fever.

I have to know where that name came from.

We came up with 5 names that we liked, Friday Night Fever was our favorite, but we left it up to the fans on MySpace.  They agreed with Friday Night Fever!  We think it suits us well!

Also, I love the way the album title matches the name of the band. Who’s idea was that?

It was a long time ago that we thought of it, but I believe it was Joe’s idea!

Where did you guys all meet?

Joe and Steve were in a band previously. Luke did and acoustic solo project and played a show with Joe and Steve’s old band, SL. when SL broke up, Luke tried out for what was about to be FNF (Friday Night Fever).  Derek was raised in the same town as Joe and Steve, but left to join a band from Columbus, Ohio when he was 17. That band broke up the same time SL did and Derek moved back home and joined FNF.  Logan was in Derek’s Columbus band, and a few months after Derek joined and we needed a guitarist, Logan joined.

You guys are on a pretty impressive tour right now. Do you guys tour like this all the time?

Our goal is to stay on the road, we just posted new tour dates for February and March.  This will be a full US tour!

Who is the ringleader in the band?

Luke handles the business stuff and does most of the talking. I’d say Joe is a leader as well.

I would like to see you on Warped Tour. Thanks!

Warped Tour is DEFINITELY a goal of ours this year! See you there!

I am digging your MySpace design. Who did that?

Luke’s friend from elementary, Ben Kistner.  Hit him up.  He’s awesome!

Speaking of MySpace, what are your thoughts on the service?

MySpace is amazing if you use it to it’s fullest!  We are on it everyday and try to respond to every message and comment and try to add friends every day as well!

Are you guys on Twitter?

Yep! We all have our own personal Twitter accounts and a band Twitter page.

Where can I get some Friday Night Fever merchandise?

You can get it on our website or on our MySpace! Or you could be awesome and come to our shows!

Who writes all of these lyrics?

Luke writes the lyrics.  Mostly true stories that have happened recently.

What is the best concert that you have ever been to?

I’d have to say the shows at our venue back home, The Crunk Room, are the best shows! Everybody comes ready to party and we have tons of fun and pack the place!

Who are some of your biggest influences?

MJ, Def Leopard (the 80’s in general), JT, Katy Perry, etc!

How do you guys know Kayla Chaffee?

Super loyal fan! She comes to every show we have in Indy!

What are you drinking on stage?

Crunk Energy Drink, Vitamin Water, H2O…..sweat. (Laughs)

Describe your genre in one word.

How bout 2…Futuristic Disco

Let’s say someone offered you a $250,000 record deal but the album was country music and someone else wrote the lyrics. Do you do it?

Definitely NOT! Never sell out.  We can’t even stand to have a producer when we record, because we really want the song to be completely us, with no outside input!  We would never let some else write for us, and it’s so hard to limit ourselves to a genre.  We just write whatever is on our hearts…doesn’t matter what genre it falls under.

Are you guys using a PC or Macs?

Mac…fa sho!

Are those Kanye West glasses?

Shutter shades are essential to set the tone!

What is like being from Fort Wayne, Indiana?

The scene here is metal…so it’s kind of…interesting trying to fit in! We have a lot of haters! (Laughs)

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

We would probably all be different on this, but the small town life is so relaxing.  It’s nice to be in a big city sometimes, but pretty much all of us can say that the smaller towns where we’ve grown up are the best places to live!

Who designed that album cover?

Ben Kistner, the same guy who did the MySpace layout.

Who in the band has the most tattoos?

In number, probably Derek.  In body coverage it’s between Logan and Derek.

Can I tell you again how much I love your logo and MySpace design? Last time, I promise.

Well hopefully everyone digs it as much as you.  It’s almost time for a new layout in my opinion!

What is your relationship with Crunk Energy Drink?

They are our sponsor, and have really helped us out a lot as far as helping us pay for merchandise orders and sending us free Crunk!  We really try to promote them a lot, by devoting our venue to them…The Crunk Room…it’s totally decked out with sweet banners and Crunk Drinks are all over for anyone to have for FREE.

If you could tour with any band out there right now whom would you pick?

Just so we could play in stadiums and play for the younger crowd, I’d have to say the Jonas Brothers. (Laughs)

Kayla wanted me to ask you if you guys wear boxers or briefs.

Commando.

What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you guys on stage.

We told people to feel free to jump on stage with us, and so many people came up that a couple of us had to get on the floor because there was NO room for us on stage. (Laughs)

What is the biggest crowd that you have ever played for?

300-400.

The smallest?

2.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Our goal is to be huge in 5 years.  Packing out stadiums.

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

Our hard work!  This is more than a full-time job!  We rarely have a free moment to be with family and friends.

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

If you are close to a town that we are playing in, make sure you come see us play.  It will be well worth your time and we really want to meet you!

The band that I am hanging out with today is one that you need to listen to. Whether you buy their album, see them perform live, or just listen to their tunes on MySpace, these boys know how to not only get you out of your seat but how to get you swaying in your chair. These guys also spend a lot of time traveling the globe trying to play for as many sets of ears that they can. They have a good direction as to where they want to go and they are doing it the “right way” if you will. Their lyrics are what I would call epic when compared to other local Indianapolis based acts, and they follow those up with piano and a stellar set of drums to match. I have even seen these boys perform with a string section. Sit with me today as we take some time to get to know the boys in Wolfy.

Where did you come up with the name Wolfy?

It is a nickname of the lead singer.  He has had since middle school.

How long have you guys been playing?

About six years.

Where did you all meet?

The lead singer and Bass player (Josh) met at University and decided to form the group Wolfy.  Matt, the drummer, auditioned several years later. The rest is history.

Tell me about your new album.

Its very orchestral and string driven.  We wanted to recreate the magic of travel in Europe that we experienced.  Plus we wanted our record to sound a bit more epic than our first EP.

Where can I get a copy of the album?

You can pick it up on iTunes, Indy CD and Vinyl, Luna music, CD baby, and at any of our shows.

Where can I get some Wolfy merchandise?

Right now we only sell merchandise at shows.  A online store is in the works.

I hear you guys have a Wolfy Moleskin.

That is true.  Josh’s sister came up with the idea.  I actually wish I could have one but I am told its lame for a band member to buy his/her bands merchandise.

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

It’s a great easy tool for a band to promote their music.  I like how simple it is to get a basic idea and feel for what a bands sound is.  However, it seems like MySpace is a bit, well, vacant these days (compared to years ago).  Still, it’s a great tool.

Are you guys on Twitter?

Yes we are.  Matt signed us up.  I won’t lie when I say I am still figuring out how to use it.

Describe your genre in one word.

Pop Rock (does that count as one – if not Pop will work).

You have shared the stage with some big names. Who is the most fun you have played with?

I think Company of Thieves would be at the top.  They have a brilliant live show.  So much fun.  I have enjoyed watching them.

What is the biggest crowd that you have ever played for?

Probably the opening slot for the Goo Goo Dolls.

The smallest?

2.  It was a show in Fort Wayne and it was during a blizzard.  Being from Wisconsin I was not going to let a little snow hamper our show.  Fans thought otherwise.

What is your favorite venue to play?

Radio Radio is our favorite club.  Great sound, great owner.  Top notch in my opinion.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

Classical music (J.S. Bach, Beethoven, Chopin), Most Motown music (Ottis Redding in particular), Radio Head, The Catherine Wheel, Kashmir (a band from Denmark that is brilliant).

Is Wolfymusic an actual label?

It functions like one it seems, so to a degree yes.  Its actually an LLC.

Where did you guys record your latest album?

At Gaither Studios and Penny Lane Productions.

Who writes all the lyrics?

Wolfy and Josh do.

Is there a ringleader in the band?

I don’t think so.  Its more like the three musketeers without sabers.

I have seen you with and without strings. Which do you prefer?

Strings definitely!

Do you guys have any thoughts on a nation wide tour this year?

I don’t think we will tour nationwide this year.  We are in the studio working on a new record actually.  Perhaps next year!

Do you guys have jobs outside of music?

Yes we do.

When did you know that you wanted to make a run out of this thing they call music?

At university.  I can’t speak for Josh and Matt but I was inspired by a retired music exec who said I should give it a shot while I was younger.  Its been quite fun.

Tell me about all the other guys in the band.

Well, Josh plays bass and sings.  He really loves spreadsheets and is a whiz with the stock market.  Seriously, he is good. Matt plays drums and sings (when I twist his arm real hard).  Matt is the only sane one in the group and spends most of his time shaking his head at Josh and Wolfy.  Patient would be a good word to describe him.

Tell me about all your world travels.

Well, I studied in Ireland and Mexico.  Josh studied in London.  We have traveled to Europe many times (about once every other year).  Bordeaux, France, Parma, Italy, Venice, Italy would be at the top of my list of travels.

Where is your favorite place that you have been?

I think France would be my favorite.  Amazing food and wine plus the culture is, well, different.  I like the slower pace of life, truth be told.  Plus I love all the old cities.  I will have to wait another 300 years in the country for the same effect.

If you could only play one song for the rest of your career what song would you pick?

Wolfy song…Vienna Underground.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Hopefully at Madison Square Garden.  If not there then, tending a vineyard.

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

Creating great art. Period.

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

I believe everyone should at some point in their life pursue there dreams and passions.  Its hard but, wow, is it fun and life changing.

It was only a matter of time before the University of Central Florida held their first regular season game. Last night, on Wednesday, November 4^th, 2009, the University of Central Florida Knights took the floor in an exhibition game.  Marcus Jordan was one of the players that got some playing time.  Marcus was wearing his dad’s latest shoe, which, you know from my initial post on this topic, are Nike, not Adidas.

So, because of that, Adidas wasted no time in handling this matter.  In a statement from Adidas today, they have stated, “The University of Central Florida has chosen not to deliver on their contractual commitment to Adidas, and as a result we have chosen not to continue our relationship with them moving forward.”  This came from Adidas spokeswoman Andrea Corso.  This was sent to The Associated Press in an email this morning.

I bet you would never guess who is not talking about this situation.  UCF has declined to make a statement in regards to this.  They did pony up with this, however.  “We are disappointed to learn that Adidas has chosen to discontinue its relationship with UCF Athletics.  Once we receive official notice we will be able to further respond.”  This statement was released by university spokesman Joe Hornstein.

Marcus, on the other hand, did have this to say, “I only wore my father’s shoes because they hold a special meaning to my family.”

The UCF did have a win that night over the Saint Leo.  But apparently that win was not enough to sway the folks at Adidas.  And I have to say, after having some time to think about this issue more, and seeing not only how Adidas handled this, but how quickly, I am on their side for this.  Sure, the shoes that Marcus was wearing did not matter to anyone else on the floor that night besides himself and Adidas.  But a contract is a contract and Adidas has every right to pull it from that university.

Who is to blame here?  Is it Marcus who is at fault for lacing up those sneakers last night?  Or is it his father’s fault because they were his shoes and had his logo on the side?  Or perhaps the university for allowing Marcus to touch the floor in shoes they had to know were not Adidas?  I think it is a mixture of the three, but more so the university for allowing him to wear those shoes.

This brings up an additional issue, as well.  Did Adidas know before he ran out onto the court last night he was going to wear those shoes?  Did Nike also know that he was planning on doing this and was aware of how Adidas would react to it?  When Adidas pulls the contract and forces the student athletes to all wear something without the Adidas logo on the side, who will come in to replace them?  It would make perfect sense for Nike to do so since Marcus, who carries a lot of weight because of who his father actually is, is going to wear those shoes regardless of what people say.  I wonder what kind of contractual agreements Sam and Alexis will come into contact with.  Their father seems to be Nike for life, but you never know when it comes to dollar bills who your next major sponsor will be.

So I applaud Adidas for taking the right course of action in this and revoking the contract.  They have every right in the world to do so and I am glad that a company like this has stood up for what is in black and white right in front of them.  Not sure this was worth it for the career of Marcus Jordan, but if Nike comes in and sweeps up this college it might just be what the doctor ordered.  Regardless of how you look at this the University of Central Florida is getting a lot of media attention and a ton of publicity out of this.  But is losing a campus wide athletic contract worth it?

I may be only be twenty-six years old but that does not mean I do not know how to party.  I went through a stage when I first hit twenty-one years of age where I wanted to go to every nightclub I could, drink anything I could get my hands on, and spend my time dancing the night away wherever I could find a DJ spinning.  On my twenty-first birthday (actually on midnight the night before) I ended up at The Vogue right here in Broad Ripple.  I walked in at 12:01 AM and went straight to the bar.  Most of my friends were over the age of twenty-one already so I already had folks waiting for me.  It was a Wednesday night and they feature retro music and cheap beers.  It is their version of Retro Rewind.

That weekend I flew out to Scottsdale, Arizona, to see my cousin.  She surprised me with tickets to Las Vegas and we headed to the city of sin.  Here I managed to not only spend my time looking at pretty lights and all of the casinos that I had seen in the movies for years prior, but I also had the chance to visit some of the biggest and more talked about clubs on the planet.  There are clubs like Pure Nightclub located in Caesar’s Palace.  This is where the girls that form the pop band Pussycat Dolls were first discovered.  Or places like Tao Nightclub in the Venetian.  It is right in the middle of the hotel and has some of the wildest parties known to man.  I even enjoy the hole in the wall bars like O’Sheas where you can take advantage of 23½ hour Happy Hour specials that include $1 beers on draught and $1 mixed or frozen margaritas.

I recently came across a list of the top 100 clubs in the country. On this list I found a dozen or so where I have spent the night dancing and drinking with friends.  The list includes a lot of Las Vegas nightclubs, as it should, and is topped with the ever popular Tao Nightclub that I just mentioned.  But on that list, down at number twenty-seven, you will find another club in Las Vegas. Smacked in between Bar Anticipation and Rum Jungle (also located in Las Vegas) you will find the Christian Audigier nightclub.  Not sure who Christian Audigier is?  Well, he is the designer of the fashion line known as Ed Hardy.

Ed Hardy, as you might know, is a recent clothing line that has come through the woodworks.  It was originally designed as a way to support and showcase the artwork from Ed Don Hardy, an infamous tattoo artist from the west coast.  Christian was a big fan of Hardy’s work and decided he would take these tattoos, and even adaptations of his work, and throw them on some shirts.  The clothing line was originally meant for skater kids and the adolescent white population.  Unfortunately, that is not who decided to start buying this product.

Not a month after this line hit the store shelves you were seeing it everywhere.  It was on shirts, hats, pants, and handbags.  But the folks wearing this stuff were not the white teenagers that it was meant for.  It was being sported by African Americans.  I am not stereotyping by saying that, but it is common knowledge that a lot of the folks walking around in this product are African American.

Did you know that you can get more things with Ed Hardy all over it than clothing.  Sure, you can get the shirts, hats, pants, and shoes with Ed Hardy designs.  But you can also get wine, beer, energy drinks, pads of paper, pencils, air fresheners, hookah tobacco, and cigarette lighters with his signature and patterns on the side. It has actually become an ongoing joke between a few friends of mine about all the crap we are seeing his branding on.  I even take pictures to showcase on Facebook when I see a new item.

I understand that Christian is in this to make money.  But he is taking it a little too far.  He is starting to put Ed’s work on things that have absolutely no need to showcase that original artwork.  My good friend Johnny Teater has a lot of tattoos.  No, I mean it, he has two complete sleeves of tattoos.  He is one of the people that this brand is starting to upset.  He is a true believer in the art behind tattoos.  I myself do not agree with tattoos, but he is a great friend of mine and I do not hold anything against him for having them.  (I might just be afraid of needles, I don’t know.)

People that are wearing this product, and buying anything with the Ed Hardy designs on it, for the most part have no interest in tattoos. Also, these people do not understand the reasoning behind Christian Audigier’s original vision. His concept for this clothing line was originally meant to showcase this work and to show the general public the work of the Ed Don Hardy. His work is simply being disregarded and thrown onto anything that will support a graphic.  Ed actually said that he did not want any funds from Christian as long as his work was being showcased in a positive manner.  I have seen interviews with Christian and he misses the point on so many levels.  Ed does not get a dime for the profits that Christian makes and that in itself is just an outrage.

Christian recently skipped town and bought a house in France.  He is no longer living in the states, no longer producing the products that has his name slapped on the side right next to Ed Hardy, yet is making millions upon millions for this concept.  This almost reminds me of the pet rock.  Someone had an idea to make the pet rock a reality and market it.  They made millions off of that novelty.  As soon as folks that are buying this Ed Hardy junk realize how dumb they look in it they will too realize that this is only a fad.  But it is going to last long enough for Christian to build his retirement on.

(On a side note, and this is just strictly an observation, the guys that I do see wearing this, if not African American, are white guys that spend too much time in the gym.  Ed Hardy can closely be compared to the new line of clothing known as Affliction.  I am not sure which is worse as a matter of fact.  I have nothing against you people wearing these products, buying his wine, and chugging his energy drink, but I do have a right to tell you that you are missing the point behind this designer’s original image.  Of course, money speaks louder than words so Christian, in a sense, wins.  But be certain that you will never see me purchasing anything from the Ed Hardy collection.)

Halloween has always been known as the holiday to pig out on candy corn and to dress up as scary as you can to freak out your friends and neighbors.  Growing up I would always get excited about this holiday for many reasons.  The first was the candy that I would be able to partake in that night and the following weeks.  This was motivation, of course, to get the most that I could when knocking on doors.  I dressed up like a variety of characters throughout the years.  The fun never wore off either, as each year I got a little bit older and could eat just a little bit more candy.  We lived in a neighborhood that was perfect for this as there were homes everywhere and porch lights on in nearly every driveway.

But when I got to college it became an excuse to still dress up but to not ask for candy but rather drinks at various parties and night clubs.  The costumes became more elaborate and cost a lot more than I remember my folks paying when I was younger.  However, nothing beats a Halloween night out on the town with your friends.

Recently I have not been as interested in this holiday for a number of reasons but this year is different.  The main reason that I do not care for this holiday is that I lost someone very close to me a few years back on Halloween night.  That is a story for another blog post but the holiday has since given me no reason to celebrate.  And while I am not over what happened on that night a few years back I have moved on to a point in my life that I can go out and have a good time rather than sit at home and sulk all evening about things I can not control.

So for all of you adults out there that are thinking about what to do for Halloween this year, why not think west and head for the bright lights of the city that never sleeps – Las Vegas.  (I know, they say that New York is the city that never sleeps.  But once you have spent a weekend in Las Vegas you will soon beg to differ.)  I wanted to break down some of the cool things you can do in Las Vegas this year.  Not all of these happen on Halloween night, as this is a holiday that deserves a week to celebrate, but if you are going to be in Sam’s Town you will not be bored.

Thursday, October 29^th, 2009

Tonight all of you metal rock fans have something to get your attention.  The band Puscifer is playing at the Pearl.  If you’re a Tool fan or a fan of Maynard James Keenan, you have to check out Keenan’s fresh new group Puscifer.  The Pearl is located inside the Palms where you can find places like Rain and the Playboy Lounge. Puscifer is a multifaceted, multimedia, multi-artist and multi-personality project that has a rotating cast of players.

After the concert, head over to the Night of the Creeps: Edward 40 Hands at McFadden’s.  This is loosely based on the incredible film Edward Scissorhands. McFadden’s at the Rio will host Night of the Creeps: Edward 40 Hands.  Part of this party includes having two forty-ounce beers strapped to your paws.  The first partygoer to finish the beers, to the last drop, will win a cash prize.

Friday, October 30^th, 2009

A personal favorite spot of mine, Tao Nightclub, will be hosting their 3rd annual Taolloween.  Tao Nightclub is inside The Venetian and provides a scenic view very hard to recreate. This event will also double as a release party for the Saw VI film, which hit theaters on October 23^rd. Dress your best to participate in the $5,000 costume contest while you dance to the sounds of DJ Reach.  Yes that is right, a 5k-costume party.  Talk about a reason to dress up this holiday!

If you want to bring back some old school rap memories then you need to not miss this show.  Vanilla Ice will be performing at Studio 54.  Vanilla Ice will be celebrating his 42^nd birthday at Studio 54 and what better way to do it than spend it in Las Vegas. Guess you can scrap the Vanilla Ice costume idea, or better yet, give it a try and see if you can get the VIP treatment by accident!  You never know who will be walking around the club pulling up the best dressed.

Another personal favorite of mine, make sure not to miss the parties going on at Jet.  This year on Halloween eve you can see the Mad Hatter’s Revenge. Jet Nightclub will host the Mad Hatter’s Revenge featuring $10,000 in prizes for the best costumes. So if the five grand that was offered earlier was not enough to suit your fancy make sure not to miss this chance.  Break out your best Cheshire Cat smile and take a trip down the rabbit hole.  This comes in good time for the release of Tim Burton’s recent take on the classic film Alice in Wonderland.

Saturday, October 31^st, 2009

I think my list of favorites is a little long but this is a party that I would bend over backwards to be in attendance for.  This Halloween night, make sure you are at the Night of Killer Costumes at the Ghostbar.  The Ghostbar is another one of the clubs that you can find at the Palms.  (This is maybe one of my favorite casinos in all of Las Vegas.) The top three ghostly goblins and ghouls will be awarded cash and prizes reaching numbers over $8,000.  Also, if the cash prizes were not enough, ladies always receive free admission.

The show did not impress me, but the story line in HBO’s vampire success True Blood has taken the world by storm.  Actually, the entire concept of vampires has taken the world by storm.  But this Halloween, all things aside, it is time to celebrate some vampires.  The entire True Blood cast will be hosting Yelloween at Lavo. The party will be hosted by True Blood stars, some who are even from Las Vegas, and will provide you with a night full of star gazing.

I might have said some of these clubs are on my list of favorites, but my single favorite bar in Las Vegas is Pure.  This year at Pure you can be treated to an event hosted by Nicky Hilton.  The stellar fashion designer and socialite will host Halloween night at Pure Nightclub at Caesars Palace. She’ll be putting her eye for fashion to good use as a judge in the costume contest with $10,000 in prizes. Pure is actually the place that the Pussycat Dolls started their career as dancers but now is being handed over to the gods of fashion for this Halloween night.

This is just a short list of some recommendations for your holiday enjoyment.  These are some of the best places to party in Las Vegas and I suggest you trying to hit them all if you can.  Vegas is one of my favorite cities in the world and while I will not be there this Halloween, I still manage to know where all the hot spots are.  So take my advice and book a plane ticket for this weekend, it is not too late.  Pack your screwiest costume and try to earn some Benjamins.  And don’t forget, what happens in Vegas stays on Facebook.

It seems that the more I write about basketball the less I seem to care about the sport.  I have never been a huge basketball fan, even when I played it growing up.  I have had a few select players that I have followed over the years like Shaquille O’Neal, Shawn Kemp, and Kobe Bryant, but I never get past what the front page of Yahoo! Sports has to tell me.  I am not even sure that I can tell you what team Shaq is playing for these days.  But over the last few months there have been stories coming up revolving around basketball that I just have felt responsible to give my feedback on.  That is the case we have here today.

Michael Jordan is arguably the single best basketball player to ever play the game.  Sure, guys like Kobe and LeBron James will give him a run for his money before their careers are over, but as it currently stands Jordan is one of the best that has ever hit the hardwood.  He played at North Carolina (after being cut his freshman year) and went on to lead the Chicago Bulls to a handful of championship rings before he retired.  He came back, played a few more years, and eventually gave it up to get into other business ventures inside the NBA.  He is actually a partner in the ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats and is also a chief adviser on basketball operations.  This means he has a direct influence over things like draft decisions and the team’s coaching staff.

Michael is also a father.  His son, Marcus Jordan, is a player himself.  He plays for the University of Central Florida.  He is a freshman this year, having just started his career as a college basketball player, and is their starting shooting guard.  He comes in at six foot three inches (that is three inches shorter than his dad) and will be graduating in the year 2013 assuming he does not decide to go pro before he gets a diploma.  Marcus is only starting his career and is already creating headlines in the news.

The University of Central Florida has a contract with the major sporting goods manufacturer Adidas.  Under this contract the teams at UCF wear all Adidas apparel and must show the Adidas logo any chance they get on their shirts, shorts, and shoes.  Marcus knew this going in and was completely fine with these rules.  He was until now.

Now that the season has started he has raised some eye brows on the shoes that he is being forced to wear.  The contract says that he must wear Adidas tennis shoes.  That becomes a problem, as Marcus wants to wear his dad’s logo on his feet.  This becomes an issue as Michael Jordan has a contract with Nike who is one of Adidas’s largest competitors.  He has been told no numerous times but has raised a valid point that I am curious to see how the university will handle.

Marcus is upset, as he wants to wear these shoes to support his father and the career that he had in both college and the NBA.  Marcus claims that family pride is the reason why he wants to wear these specific sneakers.  But the university is telling him no.  That was until Marcus brought up a valid point about a University of Central Florida football player who was allowed to wear different shoes based on the way that Adidas shoes fit his foot.  Marcus claims that this football player was complaining of sore feet while wearing the Adidas shoes, and although the university has this outstanding contract, he was allowed to change shoes into more comfortable cleats.

The school and Marcus have not yet come to an agreement, but it seems that a decision is in the works. Adidas is speaking up about this but they are doing so very carefully.  They have claimed that they are in negotiations with the university and a major contributing factor to their decision on whether to stay with the UCF will be based on “agreed deliverables for both parties”.

The university has to be careful here as they could potentially lose the contract if they allow Marcus to wear Nike shoes.  On the surface this might seem like a battle between Nike and Adidas but it really just is a matter of breaching the contract.  If it were up to me, as the UCF I would not allow Marcus to wear his father’s shoes while on the court.  Adidas will not stand for it, and very well may pull their contract if he does.  I would hope Marcus, having known the team wears only Adidas apparel, would understand and not turn this into something more than it truly is.  I would think his father would have enough say in his life to make the right decision for him if Marcus tries to wander.  I feel that he is too young, and too fresh into the start of his career to already be causing problems.  Let’s hope he sees the light at the end of the tunnel and laces up some Adidas sneakers come game day.