#SupportPGHMusic // Playing now on HughShows Radio streaming at the bottom of the page is Episode 7 of HughShows Live at Just-Records Podcast featuring Gaadge //
Soda Club is hard-twee sax pop band from Pittsburgh who are diligently working to get their debut EP entitled Enjoy out to the world on Friday February 2 by celebrating with a cool release show at The Bushnel. Their Bandcamp option will go live that day as well. To warm up, they will be playing this Thursday (1/25) at Shnel Snail Trail. Go ahead, say that venue three times fast. I want to thank Shay Park (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I can’t remember the first album *I* ever bought, but the first album ever bought for me was Oops!… I Did It Again. It definitely was a game changer. I was 6 or 7 and I had a notebook at the time that I would fill up with ripped off Britney lyrics.
Your last album bought?
I think it was Emotions and Math by Margaret Glaspy. Very good.
Favorite album of all time?
Oh shit. Is This It? by the Strokes is what came to mind first and I don’t want to overthink it.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Youth Lagoon’s second album! Their first album, The Year of Hibernation, is definitely up there in the tops, but then Wondrous Bughouse was one of the most depressing experiences. It was the opposite of beautiful and good. Hahaha.
First concert attended?
Rooney at a bar in Austin, Texas. I was born and raised in San Antonio. The Polyphonic Spree was the headliner but I was 12 or 13 and a huge Rooney fan. They were the first band I heard that wasn’t from the radio. It blew my mind that so much other music existed.
Last concert?
I don’t want to count the shows that I play, ha-ha, so I’ll say Darwin Deez.
That was a little while ago, but it was a great show. Our friends Distant Futures and Anthony Heubel opened, they’re both great.
Favorite concert ever?
This is a hard question. I’ll just go with one of the times I saw my favorite live performer, Kishi Bashi. My friend Charlie drove us to Cleveland. We’re both huge Kishi Bashi fans forever. We danced around until we were sweaty and exhausted. He puts on the best shows, I always beg people to see him if they have a chance.
Least favorite concert?
Passion Pit at CMU. It was a free show. I was 17. I went by myself and got there way too early but I was front & center. Donora opened and they’re rad. And then right before Passion Pit came on, a woman stood next to me and kept whipping her hair into my face and elbowing me. It was very uncomfortable but I wasn’t brave enough to say anything (this would change later in life). The guy standing next to me noticed how uncomfortable I was and offered to switch with me. Then when she elbowed him, he asked her to stop and she started saying loudly that he was groping her. I left before Passion Pit even came on.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’m not from Pittsburgh but I’ve enjoyed living here. I’ve been here since I was 16 and now I’m 24. I definitely have way more opportunities here than I ever would have had in San Antonio, musically speaking and otherwise. The bus system here gets a bad rap but I didn’t even have a bus system when I was growing up. This isn’t my final stop by any means, but I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had since I’ve been here. Pittsburgh is great.
Thanks, Shay. I ALWAYS had problems with people nudging up close to the stage as I waited for hours and being totally annoying (drunk) when the opener was about to come on. Most of the time I was waiting to get a good photograph and was usually O.K. with leaving after a few songs but those people are the fucking worst.
“Artists We Also Like: Most of the bands Jack White plays in.”
The Pump Fakes are are Pittsburgh’s premiere ‘combat rock’ band who aren’t afraid to wear their influences on their sleeve. Fans of Keith Richards, Ryan Adams, Springsteen and The Replacements will find something to love in their original rock and roll.
Returning to the stage after a short absence, the band will be celebrating the impending release of their upcoming new album by shaking off the cobwebs and playing most of their 2007 album Trouble Honey this Friday (1/19) at the cozy Kollar Club, along with a handful of new songs. I want to thank the band’s main songwriter Patrick Maloney (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Your last album bought?
Favorite album of all time?
Least favorite/most disappointing
album?
First concert attended?
Last concert?
Favorite concert ever?
Least favorite concert?
Favorite thoughts, experiences about
Pittsburgh?
“Listen and linger all around me I am the shadow of your step I am the taste of a dream Your Grandma fed you at only 13 Oh, those bells may ring But not for me “
Distant Futures is an alternative emo band from Pittsburgh who released a three song EP late last year entitled were, which you can snag on cassette as well as digitally. The band has a gig this upcoming Saturday (1/20) at The Glitter Box Theater with Garter Shake and Brittney Chantele so go support local music and check them out. I want to thank Connor Schweisberger (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Bleed American by Jimmy
Eat World at a Tower Records!
Your last album bought?
I pre-ordered the new Camp Cope album. They are one of my favorite bands to come up in the last couple of years.They are playing at The Rex Theater in April, I would advise anyone to check out their music and go to the show!
Favorite album of all time?
This is a tough one! I am bad at being decisive so I am going to give a top 5.
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Ms. Lauryn Hill Small Steps, Heavy Hooves – Dear and The Headlights Peripheral Vision – Turnover Transatlanticism – Death Cab For Cutie To Pimp A Butterfly – Kendrick Lamar
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I would say our first album. It was important for us as a band to make it, but there are so many things we would have done differently.
First concert attended?
The Rolling Stones at The Hollywood Bowl.
Last concert?
mily Yacina, Scratchy Blankey, Yrs, and Yohana at Roboto. Brett Shumaker, among many other promoters in the scene, consistently books great shows.
Favorite concert ever?
I saw Rage Against The Machine play their last show at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. That was a very special show to me because I got to go with one of my best friends.
Least favorite concert?
Not because of the music, but I would say Roger Waters at the Hollywood Bowl. My high school psychology teacher was sitting in front of me and was making out the entire time with his date. He never saw me.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
The people, the positivity, and my personal progress as a person/musician. I am thankful everyday that I took a chance and moved here.
Thanks, Connor. Roger Waters at the Hollywood Bowl actually sounds incredible. As a teacher myself, I disapprove of your teacher’s actions along with you. Just too awkward.
“Anthony Heubel takes care of a cemetery in the daytime and writes songs at night. Sometimes accompanied by a band and sometimes alone, he makes music that meets somewhere at the intersection of Folk, Country, and Americana.”
Anthony Heubel is a Pittsburgh based musician who will be releasing his first eponymous solo album on cassette in the upcoming weeks. Having been around the local scene in bands Run Forever and Cotopaxi, Anthony is readying the release by putting together a full band to debut his songs this Friday (1/19) at a local music showcase in Millvale. I want to thank Anthony for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I think it was a four way split 7″called Dangerous Intersections. All four bands songs on the compilation are great but I bought it for the song “No Spark” by New Creases.
Your last album bought?
Hmm, it was either Conor Oberst’s Salutations or an Eric Andersen record. Jerry’s in Squirrel Hill is my go to spot for all the good older stuff.
Favorite album of all time?
Probably In My Own Time by Karen Dalton. All of the songs on it are traditional songs but her voice is just so amazing and heart breaking. Definitely worth checking out. I look for her records everywhere I go and I’ve only found one repress in a book store in
Texas that I bought immediately.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I’m not sure on this one. I’m really bad at keeping up with current releases so I can’t think of anything I’ve been let down by recently. What usually happens is a band I like puts out a record and I think it’s awful the first time I hear it and then a week later Irealize that it’s amazing and it becomes my new favorite.
First concert attended?
Godsmack at the Erie Civic Center with my Mom when I was maybe 12. We thought the opener that played was Godsmack so when they finished we left. I didn’t realize what had happened until a little later when I started going to local shows and saw the way it worked. No regrets.
Last concert?
I just saw my friends in Soft Gondola play a few days ago. All of the members are in some of my favorite Pittsburgh bands and Soft Gondola just released a tape called Where I Go that’s excellent.
Favorite concert ever?
One time I saw AA Bondy, Deep Sea Diver, and Conor Oberst and The Mystic Valley Band, probably around 2009/2010. It was my first time seeing all of them and I was blown away the entire time.
Least favorite concert?
Godsmack. Or this one crazy show I played in Colorado once on New Year’s Eve. The doorknob broke and we got locked in our hotel room right before we had to play and then while we were playing a drunk guy started being real sketchy to some people in the crowd and this big fight broke out. We ended up rushing off the stage with all of our instruments feeding back to help break things up. Then we had to get back on stage and play like nothing happened, it was horrible.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Things have changed so much since I moved here in 2008. I remember playing the first show ever at 222 Ormsby in Mount Oliver with my friend Roger Harvey. It was his album release and there was no PA and people just partying everywhere. No one really knew what to do with themselves yet because the space was so new. Meanwhile we were trying to play soft folk music on acoustic guitars while five or six people were huddled around us in a circle. Roger sold out of all of his records that night though and Ormsby went on to be one of the best venues around for a long time. I’m so proud of the music community here and everyone that books shows and are constantly searching for new venues or opening up
their homes to bands. I was just at Babyland for the first time (way too late to the party) and I couldn’t believe that I hadn’t been there sooner. The sheer scale of it is impressive, and all of the artists there are so talented. Even after almost ten years there are so many parts of the city that I’m still finding out about and so much new stuff happening all the time.
Thanks, Anthony. I am still regretting that I never saw a show at 222 Ormsby. Believe me, I had plenty of invites and opportunities to go but weirdly, something was always preventing me from going and now I wish I hit the place up at least once.
“Making Movies thought for a while that their new album I Am Another You was cursed. Finishing the 20-track record got so complicated that supernatural interference started to seem like a legitimate possibility to the American rock ’n’ roll band — and no wonder. Produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos, with guest appearances from Hurray for the Riff Raff and members of Tennis and Ozomatli, I Am Another You is the group’s second LP. It’s a bold mix of sounds: psychedelia, experimental rock, son cubano, cumbia and various rhythms descended from Yoruba music, an African tradition that slaves carried to the New World as part of religious rites that evolved into Santería. Clearly, Making Movies was messing with some powerful juju.”
Making Movies is an Latinx Alternative band from Kansas City, MO / Santiago, Panama who are currently touring with the Immigrants Are Beautiful tour ‘bringing their pulsing Afro-Latino rhythms, psychedelic jams, and rock and roll swagger’ to every city they hit. Socially active outside the band, they are commendably raising awareness and assisting with one of the most prescient issues of our time by giving away free tickets to the shows to DACA recipients who sign up on their website including their Pittsburgh stop next Tuesday, January 16 at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls. I know it’s only rock and roll but this is an amazing gesture that transcends music. I want to thank Enrique Chi (Guitar/Lead Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?I think it may have been an Oasis album, they were one of the first bands that I could claim as my own, where I was not just mimicking my Dad’s taste in music.
Your last album bought?
The last album I received was a Christmas gift, my brother bought me the vinyl release of Kendrick Lamar’s Damn. I think the last album I bought myself was George Harrison’s Dark Horse.
Favorite album of all time?
Oh man that is a loaded question. I think I have seasons where an album is
my favorite and then it evolves. Currently the White Album by the Beatles holds that spot.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
You know, I don’t think I have a least favorite album. If music speaks to me, I listen to it and if it doesn’t I’m pretty oblivious to it or indifferent. I do have artists that I know I should be a huge fan of, true geniuses, that I just can’t seem to get into. One of those is Stevie Wonder. He’s a brilliant mind, composer, singer and musician and I can appreciate everything about his music, but I never want to listen to it. I’m not sure what’s wrong with me!
First concert attended?
I saw the Steve Miller Band, I think my Dad thought of it as a “wholesome” enough show to take an 11 year old to. As a kid I only liked old music, I was basically not into anything past 1978, so I was happy with it.
Last concert?
I think the last concert I bought a ticket for was Little Dragon at Stubbs in Austin, TX.
Favorite concert ever?
I think seeing Kendrick Lamar perform at the Kennedy Center alongside the National Symphony during his TPAB tour is the most significant concert I’ve seen. The whole room could tell that he was having a moment as the symphony played an overture featuring the motifs from his album. Here is a young man, a gifted writer from humble beginnings, dreaming of taking his message all the way to the White House. That night those lyrics had palpable weight, and Kendrick seemed to hinge a lifetime of work upon them. I still get goose bumps thinking about it.
Least favorite concert?
As a teenager I went to a Brooks and Dunn concert to appease a girlfriend. The people at that show were not the most tolerant or open minded human beings. I remember feeling that the vibe was absolutely gross. I enjoy great country music, but I did not enjoy that show.
Any thoughts, experiences about
Pittsburgh?
I don’t have any history in Pittsburgh so I think we need to make some this
time around! Thanks, Enrique. Kudos to you and your band for fighting that good fight and reminding us all what is most important in our lives, namely family and caring for others.
“We play music together. There are four of us.”
Two Birds are pop rock band band from Wexford who’s fantastic debut EP entitled The Great American Northeast was released last Summer at the hard to pass up pay your price option (although I strongly recommend you do chip in something to support local music.) A stand out track “Jelly” has been recently remixed by electro-popster Badboxes and features Mars Jackson, which you can stream below. Talk about a Pittsburgh musical powerhouse. Hopefully this isn’t the last musical collaboration this band has up it’s sleeve. I want to thank Dan ‘Jellyman’ Garrighan (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I think it was Nirvana . I’m not certain but it was definitely a tape deck that I listened in the bus on the way to school. It’s either Nirvana or The Mighty Mighty Bosstones. Probably my two favorite acts as a child.
Your last album bought?
I stream most of the music I listen to but I bought our record on iTunes on my son’s
phone because he doesn’t have Apple Music or any of that and he wanted to listen to it. So honestly, it was our record.
Favorite album of all time?
Oh wow, probably Rancid “…And Out Come the Wolves”. I feel like that album has defined me, shaped me as a songwriter, musician.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I try to find good in every musicians/artist attempt at bringing whatever it is they have to offer to life… however, my kids watch these youtubers and then they release these songs and they are just terrible – see “Jake Paul – Everyday Bro”. Probably the worst song ever. I also was really into everything Childish Gambino has done until his most recent release. Not that I found it bad by any means it just didn’t sit with me the same way his previous releases did.
First concert attended?
It was Warped Tour, I can’t recall the year though. I believe I was 9 or 10 so that’s like 96 maybe? I went because The Mighty Mighty Bosstones we’re onit. I went to some local shows before that as my older brother played in a punk band and my dad also was into punk rock so I kind of had it made. I got to see a ton of amazing bands at such a young age.
Last concert?
I think The Menzingers was the last band I went to see. Wait no, The Interrupters were just in town and I went to see them with my dad. 22 years later we still go see punk bands together!
Favorite concert ever?
As of late I really loved Rancid / Dropkick Murphys tour with Bouncing Souls as support. I mean that’s a pretty ridiculously awesome line up.
Least favorite concert?
I took my little sister to see The Jonas Brothers when she was like 8. That was kind of weird. They weren’t terrible but the whole thing just felt weird.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I really value being from a town where we have such an eclectic array of talented musicians and how willing everyone is to support each other. Just over the past year we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with artist like Badboxes, Mars Jackson and Gabby Barrett. I mean, that’s insane.
Thanks, Jellyman. This remix is insane in that all three different artists are coming together to create something unique which epitomizes Pittsburgh music for me in one track. So cool.
“Too much medicine makes you sick. Sleep Movies Drinks The Potion is a lo-fi scrapbook and the cathartic product following a long period of unhinged self-exploration and inactivity. Oscillating between experimental soundscapes that are at times frightening and enchanting, Sleep Movies Drinks The Potion occupies a colorful but detached space; looking out at a world-turned-inward, distorted through the hazy lens of self-delusion & paranoia. Making the most of cheap keyboards and utilizing effects pedals to build the sonic palette, Sleep Movies Drinks The Potion captures the playful, elementary nature of bedroom production. “
Sleep Movies is the moniker for Pittsburgh independent musician Skyler Brimmeier, who so hit the nail on the head with the perfect band name to accompany his lo-fi electric haze sounds. Unmistakably cinematic, the new album entitled Sleep Movies Drinks the Potion (available on cassette via Crafted Sounds) offers up a vibe that wouldn’t be out of place as a soundtrack to a low budget indie film. I want to thank Skyler for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Metamorphosis by Hillary Duff. I was like 10 and a big Lizzie McGuire fan.
Your last album bought?
Building a Family by Spish.
Favorite album of all time?
Strawberry Jam by Animal Collective.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
The B.E. Taylor Christmas album that we have to listen to endlessly at work.
First concert attended?
I believe it was X-Fest 2004. Of my own volition: Yeasayer & The Smith Westerns at the Trocadero Theatre in Philly.
Last concert?
(Sandy) Alex G + Crumb at Mr. Smalls Funhouse.
Favorite concert ever?
Youth Lagoon during the Wondrous Bughouse tour.
Least favorite concert?
Small Black (huge fan of their music though.)
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
My friends and I used to ride the bus up to the city to go skateboarding when we were in high school. After spending an entire day skating around the city, I was always left with an afterglow and sense of wonder for city life.
Thanks, Skyler. Nothing against B.E. Taylor at all but any Christmas album, or any album on repeat for that matter, is my hell. I once hitched a ride to a Dead show out of town and the driver INSISTED we play the same bootleg over and over again the entire trip. I was ready to kill him and every hippie in that van if I heard that same “Truckin’” one more time.
“Hi, I’m Anthony. I make music under the name The Stars of Disaster. I’m often joined by friends, acquaintances, and occasionally a complete stranger. I love loud rock and poppy hooks.”
The Stars of Disaster is the moniker of musician Anthony Schiappa, who creates catchy garage pop hooks which is evident on his latest single “Adderall b/w On Yer Feet” which was released this week. ‘Catchy’ is the key word as I have been playing this a lot in thelast week. I want to thank Anthony for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Can’t remember which came first, either the first Porno For Pyros record or Automatic for the People by R.E.M., both of which I still like. This does not include the records I stole from my older siblings.
Your last album bought?
Ted Nugent’s Greatest Hits. It was in one of those giant bins at a supermarket for like 6 bucks. A loathsome person, but he is one of the best rock guitarists ever. “Great White Buffalo” is worth the price of admission for me.
Favorite album of all time?
There’s A Riot Goin’ On by Sly & the Family Stone. To this day, it sounds like it’s from another planet.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Ween has been one of my favorite bands for pretty much my whole music-listening life, and I was really disappointed by La Cucaracha. It didn’t even suck, it was just kind of unremarkable, which I guess is the most damning thing you can say about a record.
First concert attended?
They Might Be Giants at Metropol in 1994.
Last concert?
Elvis Costello & the Imposters at Heinz Hall this past summer, doing Imperial Bedroom in its entirety. always saw him more as a singer/songwriter than a guitarist, but he’s really good. I managed to snap a pic of his pedal board, like a true nerd (see below).
Favorite concert ever?
Prince at the Gund in Cleveland on the Musicology tour.It was unreal. He did a 5-song solo acoustic set in the middle, including the best version of “Cream” I’ve ever heard. And he was super casual, interrupting songs to joke with the audience and tell stories. He used to get flack for taking himself too seriously, but he didn’t, really. Watching old TV clips of him, you see he had such a great sense of humor, especially when it came to slapstick.
Least favorite concert?
A Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis double bill at the Fox Theater in Detroit in the early 2000s, after eating a bunch of pot brownies. The audience was a mix of ruthless hecklers, drunken affluent suburbanites, and people who were obviously there on some kind group tour. I’ve never seen a show go that sideways, ever. It was a complete train wreck in every way imaginable. About halfway through, it felt like a riot was imminent. People were jumping up on stage and messing with Chuck’s guitars and amps during the songs, which to me is grounds for summary execution. During one song, he was actually begging people to get back in their seats instead of singing the lyrics. It’s the first and only time I’ve been frightened at a concert. If you’ve ever seen the film “Jacob’s Ladder,” that about sums it up. Gorgeous venue, though.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I grew up in Steubenville, Ohio, about 45 minutes away, but came here a lot as a teenager for shows and to buy records you couldn’t get at NRM. Since moving back, into the city, several years ago, I’ve gotten to play with many people in lots of one-off gigs. Not only were those all a blast, but they afforded me the opportunity to meet, befriend, and collaborate with Pittsburgh musicians, writers, and visual artists whose work I admire. A little kumbaya, perhaps, but I’m having fun.
Thanks, Anthony. That Chuck / Jerry Lee show sounds absolutely horrible, in the best way possible.
“A voice with a smidge of grit marks the sound of Jordan McLaughlin. His country tunes fuse with an alternative sound onto full-band songs, while the solo music he performs maintains an intimate folk feel.” – Pittsburgh City Paper
Jordan McLaughlin is a local songwriter who recently was named BestAlt-Folk/Alt-Country Band by the readers of the Pittsburgh City Paper. He often plays out around and you can catch him this Saturday (11/25) supporting Full Circle Band at Kendrew’s Lounge in Aliquippa. I want to thank Jordan for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Green Day – Dookie.
Your last album bought?
I opened for a band called The Steel Woods and bought their album, Straw in the Wind, before leaving the gig.
Favorite album of all time?
Further Seems Forever’s How to Start a Fire. Growing up, Jason Gleason’s vocals on this album were a huge inspiration of mine.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Taking Back Sunday’s New Again. Taking Back Sunday provided the soundtrack to some of my most influenced years growing up, and this album just didn’t live up to the others.
First concert attended?
The Bouncing Souls and Tsunami Bomb!
Last concert?
Matthew Mayfield, a songwriter from Birmingham, AL. My first ever solo gig was an opening spot for his show a few years back. I haven’t missed him in Pittsburgh since.
Favorite concert ever?
Further Seems Forever at the Theatre of Living Arts in Philadelphia. Bought a ticket, drove there alone, and stood so close to the stage that I could touch the band.
Least favorite concert?
John Mayer at Post Gazette Pavilion after he released his album Born and Raised. It just wasn’t the John Mayer that I listened to and loved.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Between the festivals and other outlets for exposure, I think Pittsburgh has an up and coming music scene that is going to begin to attract people from outside the city to experience it, and I’m excited for my opportunities to be a part of that growth.
Thanks, Jordan. Love that Further Seems Forever commitment. I cannot recall ever going out of town alone to see a band like that. I’ve done many with other people but that is something I should definitely do sometime.
Photo via Silver Media Agency
“Vanessa Silberman (LA national Rock touring singer / guitarist) & Carissa Johnson (Boston Rock artist) are teaming up for “The Hearts & Crowns Tour” the most badass rock tour of the fall!
Vanessa will be performing varied solo electric sets (with special guests!) and Carissa will be performing acoustic and full band sets.
Vanessa’s live show stirs up memories of Nirvana, The Pretenders, The Ramones, Patti Smith & Neil Young. Such comparisons are worthy for a musician like Vanessa who’s performed OVER 330 shows in the last 2 years!Vanessa recently wrapped up a western US tour this summer with Carissa Johnson and a west coast trek with Reed Mullin (drummer) of Corrosion of Conformity and Mikel Ross (producer/musician).
Carissa Johnson and her band became the first female-led band to win the storied Boston radio festival Rock and Roll Rumble since the Dresden Dollswon it in 2013. Carissa’s debut full-length album was recognized as “Album of the Year” by the Limelight Music Awards.”
Vanessa Silberman and Carissa Johnson begin their co-headlining tour this Friday (11/24) in Pittsburgh at Hambone’s with support from longtime blog fave Nik Westman (NYC via PGH), Merilette (TX), and local songwriter Lyra. This show might be the perfect gig to blow off any of those Thanksgiving cobwebs accumulated over the past few days. I want to thank both Vanessa and Carissa for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Vanessa Silberman: First album was a tape of Green Day Kerplunk! at Rasputin in Berkeley & shortly after I got 10 CDs for a penny through Columbia House (that included Nirvana, Silverchair, Weezer, Green Day) but I also was bought an Inner Circle (they had the “Cops” theme song) CD by my aunt around this time.
Carissa Johnson: Avril Lavigne Let Go.
Your last album bought?
Vanessa: Carissa Johnson’s 7″ “Tomorrow in Melbourne.” Carissa: Alvvays Anti-Socialites.
Favorite album of all time?
Vanessa: Nirvana Nevermind. Carissa: Joan Jett Bad Reputation.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Vanessa: See below regarding least favorite concert. Carissa: N/A.
First concert attended?
Vanessa: Kamp Kome radio concert at Shoreline Amphitheater with Filter, Foo Fighters, No Doubt, Goo Goo Dolls, 7 Year Bitch & others.
Carissa: Avril Lavigne and Simple Plan.
Last concert?
Vanessa: Ha-ha, I can’t remember. I just played over 330 something shows in last 25 months but I think Foo Fighters at the Forum.
Carissa: The Last Internationale.
Favorite concert ever?
Vanessa: Foo Fighters at Henry Kaiser Auditorium. Filter at the Warfield. Carissa: Grace Potter and The Nocturnals in 2010.
Least favorite concert?
Vanessa: I had one that I was so let down by I went home & cried. The singer/guitarist (who’s name I prefer not to mention) I think was on a lot of drugs & probably going through a very difficult time. So in a way it’s made me really want to focus on the positive & not destroy my life especially being a public figure. As an artist, it’s what I signed up for & my duty to set a good example & help bring a positive message through music & give people that in a live experience somehow too.
Carissa: N/A.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Vanessa: Love it! Love the historical aspects to the city & it has such a cool supportive music scene. Had some amazing experiences playing at there & really looking forward to this show at Hambones & connecting with the community.
Carissa: I went for the first time in the fall of 2015 and loved the lights and bridges of downtown.
Thanks, ladies. Hambone’s will be pumpin’ on Friday with that great lineup. Have fun!
“We love music; we’ll make our own for awhile. We love everyone.”
Moses is a spaced out jam rock band hailing from Grand Rapids, MI who just last month dropped their debut full-length entitled New Mood. I want to thank Nate Zinzi (Rhythm Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
In the first grade, 1998, my first album, which was technically purchased by my dad for me, was Blink 182’s Enema of the State. It luckily didn’t have the Parental Advisory sticker on it for whatever reason, so I was good to go.
Your last album bought?
Protomartyr’s Relatives in Descent, which I got at their record release boat show in Detroit in September.
Favorite album of all time?
That is tough, but up in my top three would be mewithoutYou’s Brother Sister or Interpol’s Turn on the Bright Lights.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Definitely Minus the Bear’s Infinity Overhead. Total facade ruiner that sort of lessened, to me, their discography as a whole. Very boring, very forgettable.
First concert attended?
I sort of remember as a wee child it was Wayne Newton, but I saw Blink in third grade, around 2000/2001 on their ‘Take Off Your Pants and Jacket’ tour. Still have the set list memorized.
Last concert?
I just saw Kurt Vile/Courtney Barnett last week, awesome show, made me appreciate their new album a whole lot more.
Favorite concert ever?
That is pretty tough too. I’d probably have to go with mewithoutYou, The Dear Hunter 4th of July, 2009. Went with the drummer of our band, John, and it changed our world. First of nine times seeing mwY.
Least favorite concert?
It was probably one I was forced to go to in high school — A Day to Remember/August
Burns Red — LAME!
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Brief, but hilarious Pittsburgh story: we were on tour with The Cardboard Swords for a couple weeks the summer of I think 2013 or 2014. We didn’t play Pittsburgh, but we were staying the night on our way from New York to Ohio. Couldn’t tell you where we were, but it wasn’t a pretty area, far from downtown. Spent a few solid hours at the bar, closed it out, stopped in at a gas station to get some water and snacks before heading back to the house. I said some stupid shit, like not aggressive, but like I was feeling sick or something and some girls were very put off by it. When we were all purchased and heading out, a man in a wheelchair, missing a leg, no shirt on, started talking shit, saying we disrespected “his ladies” and that he could take us all out even with only one leg. He didn’t know it was me who was saying the bizarre comments, so he hopped up and sucker punched our drummer John, knocked him down, a couple more dudes were headed our way at his asking, so we yanked John up and sprinted full-bore down the hill to the house we were staying crying laughing as our feet were clapping down the hill. Supposedly, our friend Lauren said there were some dudes outside casing the place, but we didn’t see it. We all woke up at like 7am and dipped as quick as possible.
We still love Pittsburgh though!! Saw Pig Destroyer at Altar Bar with my dad a few years back with my dad — 6/7 hour drive for the show… ha!
Thanks, Nate. Jeez, what part of Pittsburgh were you staying?
“Singer-songwriter Dylan Rooke experiments with the intersection of folk, rock, and some punk grit. Joining with some old friends who formed the accompanying band Red Coal, together they have overlaid vocal harmonies, modern electric and traditional acoustic instruments, to orchestrate a balance between the dynamics of their songs, bringing with them many anthems to be sung arm in arm.”
Dylan Rooke is an artist/songwriter from Pittsburgh who will be taking part tonight as part of this months Local 913 Live featuring performances by three recent WYEP Singer-Songwriter Competition winners. Along with Trinity Wiseman and Mike Meiers, Dylan will be playing this always all-ages/free event and if you happen to be over 21, you can enjoy a few adult beverages courtesy of Dos Equis. These are always very laid back, chill shows that are no brainers if you are like me and love to support the Pittsburgh music scene. I want to thank Dylan for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Man, I want to say something real cool and sound legit, but I’m pretty sure it was an album called Bloom by Audio Adrenaline, a 90’s alt-rock Christian band – there ya have it folks.
Your last album bought?
Really loving Adios by Cory Branan that I just picked up last week.
Favorite album of all time?
Definitely one by the only band that matters, The Clash, but it’s so hard to pick which one – probably London Calling, is that cliche’?
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Cut the Crap by The Clash, it didn’t cut it… such a painful way for them to go out (thankfully Joe came back with The Mescaleros to give us all some redemption!)
First concert attended?
The Orange County Supertones, maybe the year was 1996? Oh man…
Last concert?
Cory Branan with Jared Hart and locals Tim Vitullo and Bryan McQuaid. It was such a solid night of singer-songwriters.
Favorite concert ever?
Probably the Bouncing Souls w/ Gaslight Anthem circa 2008. One of the most fun nights of live music I’ve ever been a part of.
Least favorite concert?
Oh goodness, probably one I played when I used to tour in a punk band, there were a lot of bad ones we experienced…
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
That is also difficult, this town has so many stories it has invited me into. but in relation to music though I’d say every time I’d come back to town after I used to tour with my former band and I’d feel this well of joy as we came through a tunnel (usually) and see the skyline and I’d know I was back home, only to get the itch to leave town again in almost no time! I always thought I’d find some other place to settle down in our travels but by the time I was ready I knew there was nowhere else for me to put down my roots – they were already here. I’m happy to see where the music scene is going here, seems like there’s been a lot of people diggin’ in and supporting each other – I’ve certainly felt the love since getting back into music over the last 2 years after
a hiatus from my punk band days.
Thanks, Dylan. Seriously, bad stories from touring with a punk band? Dude, I would love to hear some of those….
“Some people say there is no truth in advertising. They’re wrong. The truth is Truth in Advertising has been hanging around the Pittsburgh area since 1999. What started out as a group of friends hanging out and making each other laugh has evolved into a beloved acoustic act with two full-length albums, years of performing experience and a love song written for a cat.”
Truth in Advertising is a folk rock duo from Pittsburgh who have been performing on and off in the area for almost two decades. Their latest release from June is called Another Wanderlust Melon via Monkey Corner Records.The band is kinda quiet lately but expect some possible solo stuff next year. I want to thank Fred Betzner (Harmonica/Accordion/Vocals) and Seán O’Donnell (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Fred Betzner: Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles.
Seán O’Donnell: U2’s October on cassette from Ames.
Your last album bought?
Fred: Whiteout Conditions, The New Pornographers.
Seán: Finally found an LP of Eno’s Taking Tiger Mountain (By Strategy).
Favorite album of all time?
Fred: In the Aeroplane Over the Sea, Neutral Milk Hotel.
Seán: Tough one. Contenders are Spiritualized’s Ladies and Gentlemen We Are Floating in Space, Blur’s 13, and Radiohead’s OK Computer. Time is relative, though, and so are my choices. Oh, and what Fred said.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Fred: Pure Guava, Ween. Seán: Amazing Grace by Spiritualized. Anything would be hard to top after Ladies and Gentlemen….
First concert attended?
Fred: Michael W. Smith (it was a Christian thing). Seán: They Might Be Giants at Metropol, 1998 or 1999.
Last concert?
Fred: Phish. Seán: Phish, 12/29/2017 at Madison Square Garden.
Favorite concert ever?
Fred: They Might Be Giants. Seán: Sparklehorse and Mercury Rev at Graffiti, 1999.
Least favorite concert?
Fred: John Adams Conducts a Series of Discordant Notes he Strung Together While the Names of 9/11 Victims are Read Thereby Insulating it From Being Called Terrible at the PSO.
Seán: Devo, at the Amphitheater at Station Square in 2010, because I had center, front-row tickets and VIP passes to meet the band and they had to cancel the show.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Fred: I love this city, but if I had to pick the best thing The Pickle Barrel on Carson Street used to have ridiculously amazing fries. Then it apparently burned down. COINCIDENCE?!?!? WAKE UP SHEEPLE!
Frick Park. I’m really lucky to live very close to it.
Thanks, fellas. Damn, that Devo story sucks, Seán. As a music fan, nothing is more frustrating than to be all psyched to see a particular band and have them cancel a gig. I’d rather see a terrible performance than not see one at all.
“This Pine Box was founded in March of 2016 by Jake Knight (Lead Vocals/Guitar) and original member Sean Warpenburg (Bass). The band released its debut EP in July and were featured as Firenotes artist of the month on Bandcamp. This Pine Box is currently recording at Ultrasuede Studio with John Curley of the Afghan Whigs. They are WNKU’s artist of the month for January and have released a single called “Point of View” in promotion of their first full length album. The current line up of the band is Jake Knight, Sean Warpenburg, Joe Tellmann (Guitar), Braden DeVine (Piano/Keys), Tony Parsons (Drums), and Carsen Holaday (Vocals).”
This Pine Box is an Americana alt-rock band from Dayton, OH who’s latest single “Way Out” is available now via Old Flame Records. The band is gearing up for a big 2018 which maybe includes a debut stop in Pittsburgh? I want to thank Jake Knight (Guitar/Lead Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
It was when I was 6 or 7. I bought the Brother Bear soundtrack and always listened to the Phil Collins song “On My Way”.
Your last album bought?
War on Drugs’ most recent album called A Deeper Understanding.
Favorite album of all time?
That is a tough one. I’d say that it is probably Let it Be. Ever since I was a kid, my dad would always play “Get Back” in the car and now that album is just timeless to me.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
It’s hard to choose a disappointing album, I’d say i was somewhat disappointed by Radiohead’s Kid A. I discovered Radiohead pretty late in high school and started off with Pablo Honey, and pretty much listened to them in order. I got done with OK Computer and was expecting the next album to be like Muse’s Origin of Symmetry with heavy guitars and weird spacey transitions. With that said, all of Radiohead’s more synth heavy stuff has grown on me quite a bit recently. Instead of driven guitars, the synth drives the song which makes them really thick. It’s pretty awesome.
First concert attended?
It was actually Elton John, and it was pretty incredible.
Last concert?
I saw Billy Joel in Indianapolis which was also great.
Least favorite concert?
Probably this Christian Screamo band I saw open for someone, I can’t remember who. I was running the lights for the show and couldn’t catch a break to go outside it was miserable.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I actually have only ever driven through Pittsburgh, but my uncle is a huge Steelers fan! I hope to bring the band to play more shows up there! I’ve heard it’s a great city!
Thanks, Jake. I am right were you are in terms of Radiohead, except the part where the ‘synthy’ stuff has grown on me. After The Bends, I am done.
“Fences is something new for our band Bombadil. It is more than just an album; it is a new path, a reset after several challenging years. The path began in January 2015, when a longtime member of Bombadil unexpectedly left our band. Daniel Michalak and I sat down to discuss our next steps. It was a time for soul searching. A duo of a bassist and drummer did not feel like a band. Moving forward seemed daunting, but we both felt like there was more to say with the band. We wanted to make music. So we began simply by making some. Writing and recording the Still Bombadil EP was fun. A fast and dirty exploration of a creative idea, no room for fiddling, deadline looming. Our last album, Hold On, had not been like that. It had been an ordeal.“
Bombadil is a folk rock pop trio from North Carolina who will be swinging through Pittsburgh this Wednesday (11/15) supporting their latest release via Ramseur Records entitled Fences. Opening up for the band at the always cool Snake Hill will be local duo and blog faves Scott & Rosanna. I want to thank James Phillips (Percussion/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Former Foxygen drummer Diane Coffee (aka Shaun Fleming) just released his PEEL 7” on Polyvinyl. Often described as “psychedelic Motown,” Fleming’s music has caught attention from notable outlets like SPIN, Pitchfork, Uncut, Magnet, Interview Magazine, and more. Of Diane Coffee’s live show, NPR Music raved, “Diane Coffee gives the kind of live performances you talk about for weeks after seeing. Conjuring both Mick Jagger and David Bowie, Fleming swaggers and shimmies on stage.”
Diane Coffee stops in Pittsburgh this Sunday (11/12) at Spirit for a tour ending show supporting the 7″ Peel with locals Wreck Loose and THOUSANDZZ OF BEEZ. Word is, this will be the last show (this year) of the ultra-cool installation The Vault by artist Ian Brill. I want to thank Shaun Fleming (Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
With more than 700 sets of steps throughout the city, Pittsburgh employs an Inspector of Steps whose responsibilities include maintaining and inspecting all city-owned steps and public stairways that comprise approximately 15 miles, nearly double the number of steps in San Francisco and Cincinnati. Its Inspector of Steps is essential to preserving Pittsburgh’s more than 100 major stairways, roughly 44,645 risers and more than 712 individual stairs that help city residents navigate the region’s extremely uneven topography. Pittsburgh’s steps are so iconic to the city that a book titled “The Steps of Pittsburgh: Portrait of a City” was written by Bob Regan, a geophysicist with the University of Pittsburgh. In his book, Regan reveals that, when combined together, Pittsburgh’s steps equal more than four miles in height, greater than the height of North America’s tallest mountain, Mt. Denali, by nearly 4,000 feet… so that’s pretty cool.
Thanks, Shaun. We do have steps EVERYWHERE. A bunch of those seem to go nowhere… which is actually kind of cool when you stumble upon them.
“Sewickly native Seirra Sellers grew up on a steady stream of R&B, rock, country and gospel thanks to her family’s eclectic taste. She found herself gravitating towards neo-soul artists like Jill Scott, India Arie and Lauryn Hill. Sellers found encouragement in a very good group of friends she’d met throughout her life, especially at St. Vincent College, where she recently graduated.” – Cindy Howes (WYEP)
Sierra Sellers is an up and coming Pittsburgh based R&B/Soul songwriter who recently released her latest single “Gimme” produced by Washington D.C. based K-Ron. Sierra will be bringing her festive vibe (along with a who’s who of local musical talent) as part of the 7th annual Holiday Hootenanny presented by WYEP on December 7th at the August Wilson Center. I want to thank her for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Tears of Joy is a Pittsburgh power pop band who recently dropped a ‘mini-album’ called Fat Money Summer. The band recorded with Jake Hanner of looooongtime blog faves Donora and it’s hard not to hear the influence he had on the proceedings. I want to thank Evan Kadan (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first record I really remembering picking out in a store and buying with my own money was the self-titled The Clash album, I think was in like the fifth grade.
Your last album bought?
Goths by The Mountain Goats.
Favorite album of all time?
This one is really hard but as far as my favorite record to hear in one sitting, it’s Madvillany by Madvillan (MF DOOM + Madlib).
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I bought Unknown Pleasures by Joy Division on vinyl because I thought I was into it and got home and threw it right on and had this epiphany that it was just awful. Still my least favorite album.
First concert attended?
Bob Dylan did a tour of farm team baseball stadiums and I caught him when he came through Frederick, MD where I grew up.
Last concert?
The Gorillaz at Merriweather Post Pavilion.
Favorite concert ever?
My mom took me and some friends to see The Cure for a 14th birthday present. They played for like three hours and did so many encores we left before it was over because it was 2:00 am. That ruled.
Least favorite concert?
I saw A$AP Rocky at PPG when it was Consol and some twerp got sick on my new shoes.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
It has been cool to move from the DMV to another area with a good music scene and history, I even got to see shows at Garfield Artworks and 222 Ormsby before they closed down.
Thanks, Evan. There are many ‘beloved’ bands that just I never got. Joy Division might be at the top of that list.
“With a combination of a soft yet powerful vocal style and the gently flowing music behind it, Brad manages to take you back to the 90’s. Best described vocally as a mix between John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls and Jason Wade from Lifehouse, his 90’s influences show vividly in his music.”
Brad Abbott is an alternative acoustic singer-songwriter from Irwin, PA who’s debut EP called Memories was released this past week. You can snag a free copy this Saturday (10/21) as Brad will be playing The Radioactive Events Center in Kittaning. I want to thank Brad for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“I put a lot of thought into each song and everything about this project. Except grammar. I am terrible at grammar, but that is besides the point. Everyone has their own beliefs and or thoughts and it is very important to be aware of those things. Without questioning ourself or our existence we would never be able to progress as individuals or as a whole. Although just listening to music to hear noise is very very enjoyable to myself, I want to make it mean more than just a pattern of frequencies that keep myself and others entertained for a few minutes. I want the music to be the trigger that sends your brain exploding with thought and positive growth and hopefully inspire you to become aware of yourself and everything. You will never be able to find every answer in this world, but you can learn a lot along the way just by being concious that there is more to life than what society promotes. In this world there are two kinds of people, you either get it, or you don’t. Kind of like grammar. “
Kahone Concept is the moniker of Pittsburgh based alternative songwriter Ben Orvick who has independently been releasing music for a couple of years now. His latest EP is called Towers. You can expect some very cool things from him in the future. I want to thank Ben for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Oh geez… growing up I didn’t really buy albums I basically stole from my dad’s CD collection. One of the earliest CDs that comes to mind is Green Day’s Dookie but as for me personally buying I think it could have been a Van Halen album.
Your last album bought?
I don’t usually buy albums unless they are super good then I’ll go back and buy them after I listen. I normally just use a streaming service. The last album I downloaded was Pinegrove’s Cardinal.
I’ve just been getting into them lately.
Favorite album of all time?
This is a really hard question. I can’t name a certain single one but I can rattle off a few that I think are fantastic, Coldplay – A Rush of Blood, Bastille – Bad Blood, Bon Iver – For Emma Forever Ago, Catfish and the Bottlemen – The Balcony.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I don’t know that I have a least favorite. Maybe an album I haven’t heard.
First concert attended?
My family never really went to shows so I never got to go to one until I was like 17 and could drive myself. Anyways my first official concert was Twenty One Pilots.
Last concert?
I think it was Kings of Leon this summer at KeyBank. I went with a friend ‘cause he got us free tickets. Although I woulda ended up paying for tix and going anyways because I really like KOL. “The Immortals” is one of my favorites. The chorus gets me every time especially with the bass line.
Favorite concert ever?
I really enjoyed seeing Smallpools. It’s a mixup between them and Twenty One Pilots ‘cause it was my first.
Least favorite concert?
One time I went to see Milky Chance with some friends and a few drunk older ladies kinda ruined the show for us. They kept grabin’ us and being a little overly friendly if you know what I mean. I just wanted to watch the show and they wouldn’t back off. I think I made one cry ‘cause I might have told her off a lil bit. In the end I felt bad for being mean and gave her my spot and left ha-ha.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I genuinely love Pittsburgh. Every time I come around the bend and see the skyline I get a little fuzzy feeling. It’s ridiculous but I don’t care I love it. I like how small it is yet so diverse. Walking down the street you’ll hear 5 different people speaking 5 different languages. It’s just a nice place to be and learn a little bit about different cultures all in one city.
Thanks, Ben. I am totally with you (as many people are I am sure) about that skyline of ours never, ever getting old each time I see it.