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“The truth / Our existence / Carved out / Long ago / In archaic tongue“
Vimanas is an obscure indie electronic band from Pittsburgh, who made there bones in the DIY basement show scene, barreling through their brand of lo-fi art rock. They recently released their latest offering, entitled Vimanas II which continues in the view of their genre-bending sound. I want to thank Gene Vercammen (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Astro Lounge, Smash Mouth.
Your last album bought?
Con Todo El Mundo, Khruangbin.
Favorite album of all time?
Paranoid, Black Sabbath.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Crack-Up, Fleet Foxes.
First concert attended?
B94 Summer Stretch (1999, Star Lake Amphitheater).
Last concert?
Big Thief (2019, NYC).
Favorite concert ever?
Brand New (2018, Baltimore, MD).
Least favorite concert?
Journey & the Doobie Brothers (2016, KeyBank Pavillion).
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
The people, the music, the food, the overall vibe. I think I will always look back on the time in our lives when we were frequenting the dank basements of the South Oakland music scene very fondly—although we are all far removed from those days now, we are still fueled by the spirit we discovered in ourselves back then.
Thanks, Gene. I appreciate your eclectic music that veers from style to style, sometimes within the same song. Definitely keeps things interesting for me as a listener.
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“Brady Novotny started playing the guitar at the age of 10. Determined to be a world class guitarist, he left his first guitar lesson with his instructor telling him basically to give it up now.“
Brady Novotny is a Pittsburgh-based guitar player who has led a multi-faceted life. After attending the prestigous Berklee College of Music, at 19 Brady began teaching music at a Duquesne University summer workshop but soon chose another field after burning out and became a licensed therapist upon earning a Masters in Psychology. The guitar soon beckoned and found Brady being sought after for session work, touring locally and nationally, playing in mega churches and becoming a Worship leader. You can catch Brady, along with blog faves Misaligned Mind for their rescheduled date of Friday, May 15th at the Hard Rock Cafe in Station Square for what they are calling The Guitar Freaks. I want to thank Brady for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
First album ever bought?
Blizzard of Oz by Ozzy Osbourne.
The last album I bought?
What Happens Next by Joe Satriani.
Favorite album of all time?
Americas by Strunz and Farah.
Least favorite/most-disappointing album?
I can remember back in the day when Metallica released Garage Days. I understood what the album was about but needless to say I was very disappointed.
First concert attended?
Kansas (probably in 1982, my dad won tickets on a local radio station.)
Last concert?
Iron Maiden, Legacy of the Beast, 2019.
Favorite concert?
Steve Vai, 2016, Passion and Warfare anniversary.
Least favorite concert?
I really don’t have a least favorite concert; I usually enjoy most performances.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I grew up in Pittsburgh, so I have a lot of fond memories. I always loved going to concerts at the Civic Arena. I saw so many bands at that venue in the 80’s (Rush, Bon Jovi, Triumph, David Lee Roth, Iron Maiden, Ozzy etc.) It was just a special time in music and for arena bands.
Thanks, Brady. Man, did I have a fun time in the 80’s at the Arena. My uncle was head usher and would get us down in the front, no matter what ticket we had. Then, my cousin got an usher job and did the same as his dad worked the service entrance. So not only did we have the best seats in the house, we got in for nothing!
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In an attempt to alleviate the financial burden that Pittsburgh musicians and other artists are going to experience due to cancellations of shows on account to the seriousness of the Coronavirus Pandemic, some cool people are rolling up their sleeves for the ambitious fundraiser Live at 25 Pandemic Series.
Scheduled over 25 consecutive nights (and possibly more) beginning Tuesday, March 17, the livestream from approximately 6:30pm-10pm will utilize the professional facilities of Hear Corp at 25 Carrick Avenue to present information, first hand accounts of the devastating effects to personnel in the entertainment industry, and live entertainment from a variety of performance artists to ultimately raise as much money as possible. Spread the word. This is going to take all of us within the Pittsburgh musical landscape to help.
“Have you had a show cancellation due to the current state of affairs? If so, please inquire about doing a live stream show. We’re trying to help the artist community who have been deeply affected by this pandemic. We can not guarantee payment for these performances but are doing our best to raise money for all artists participating. Hear Corp is providing this service free of charge in a series called Live at 25 Pandemic Series. Please fill out the form and we will respond as soon as possible. “
Apply here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe1GHOULuZCmz2R_nzuArsvCyT6h5rvHXl_s1St27xjrmzSxw/viewform?fbclid=IwAR0atg6kT6lLOoxGQSM5GyW6gyMCRl26gQIw2kZh1J5MR9w0svZ3ftJxzhc
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“Across the Dawn blends rock and electronic music together to form a sound that’s powerful and atmospheric. Their diverse selection of songs reach your imagination and emotions with musical imagery that is like a photograph developing in the listener’s mind.“
Across the Dawn is an alt-rock band from Pittsburgh who incorporate elements of electronic into their sound that differentiate their music from your usual rawk band. They released there debut album last summer, appropriately tilted Across the Dawn and will be partying it up for St. Paddy’s Day tomorrow night (Saturday 3/14) at a banger in the confines of The VenUe – at – The Legion in Manor, PA on a stacked bill with Sourloon, Brang ‘Em Bring ‘Em, Steve Hawk, Squalor, and Funky Dojo. I want to thank Shawn Minerd (Guitar/Keys) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Slipknot – Slipknot.
Your last album bought?
Nine Inch Nails – The Fragile.
Favorite album of all time?
Deftones – White Pony.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Korn – See You on the Other Side.
First concert attended?
Possibly The Clarks, cant remember for sure.
Last concert?
Incubus.
Favorite concert ever?
Smashing Pumpkins.
Least favorite concert?
Disturbed.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
The night we played at The Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh, we had a great show with an awesome sound guy. Our friend Jared was filling in for us on bass at the time and this was the first show he played with us, which was fun. We also got to meet some new bands. It was one of our favorite shows.
Thanks, Shawn. I notice that minor things, like a cool sound guy, can make such an impression on a performer. One the other hand, a shitty one does the same, I am sure.
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I am happy to announce that HughShows Ticket Giveaway is back as we team up with the cool folks at Grey Area Productions to offer up a pair of passes to one of their upcoming shows.
Today’s contest will get you and a friend into the Railroad Earth concert at The Rex Theater on the Southside of Pittsburgh on Thursday, March 19, 2020. Kyle Tuttle Band will be opening the 8pm (Doors at 7) over 21 show.
To enter, send an email to hughshows at gmail dot com with the subject line Railroad Earth Tix with your name in the message body. You must bring ID to the box office the night of the show be admitted.
Winners will be contacted on Tuesday, March 17.
Good luck!
UPDATE 3/12/2020
Railroad Earth has postponed the Pittsburgh date of the tour due to public health concerns.
Apologies to all who entered. Keep on the look out for future ticket giveaways.
“Post-Punk… maybe“
Garage League is Pittsburgh power pop-punk trio made up of members from former bands Pollen, Direct Action, and Atom Panic who recently released their debut EP entitled Slotterbot. You can catch the band play all the hits from the EP next Thursday (3/12) when they perform at Brillobox along with Dares from Brooklyn and locals Airbrake. I want to thank John Potiseck (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
UPDATE (3/12/20)
This show has been canceled due to ever evolving public health concerns.
The first album you ever bought?
The Eagles – Their Greatest Hits 1971 – 1975.
Your last album bought?
Sepultura – Quadra.
Favorite album of all time?
The Ramones – Ramones.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Dee Dee King – Standing in the Spotlight.
First concert attended?
Motörhead, Stanley Theater, 1983.
Last concert?
Avengers, Stiff Little Fingers, 2019.
Favorite concert ever?
Gang Of Four, Washington DC, 2005.
Least favorite concert?
Moxy Früvous.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I love that Pittsburgh has had so many great bands since the early days of Punk and New Wave.
Thanks, John. Bummer on the recent passing of Gang of Fours’ guitarist Andy Gill. Talk about a death that wasn’t expected? It sucks that I never did see him play live.
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“Skeletonized makes completely deranged music, incorporating electro-noise, metal, punk, and free jazz into its panic-inducing cacophonies.” – Bored in Pittsburgh
Skeletonized is a genre-bending band from Pittsburgh who have just collaborated with another local band, the experimental outfit How Things Are Made, to release a wild album appropriately titled How Skeletonized is Made. Not an easy listen, think Frank Zappa covering Ummagumma, but an enriching one. A work that is equal to the sum of it’s whole. Not even sure what that means but do yourself a favor and give it a chance. I want to thank Matt Rappa (Drums/Samples) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Arrested Development, 3 Years, 5 Months & 2 Days in the Life Of…
Your last album bought?
Suffocation, Blood Oath.
Favorite album of all time?
Landed, Why I Live.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Tough to say. Probably a something I recorded many years ago.
First concert attended?
The Jets at the Crawford County Fairgrounds as a kid.
Last concert?
Catscams, Five Foot Arm & Skeletonized at Howlers.
Favorite concert ever?
Neurosis at Club Laga on the “Through Silver In Blood” tour.
Least favorite concert?
There’s been some terrible “Rigs of Dad” bar rock bands seen through the years, I won’t name any names.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’m happy to still be making music in Pittsburgh in 2020, and enjoying a lot of the sounds that people are creating in the city currently.
Thanks, Matt. This is such an unexpected and beautiful album. How two separate bands can create something this cool is wonderful.
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“Their catchy music showcases soulful twin vocal harmonies, introspective lyrics, Penco’s bluesy guitar playing complimented by Miller’s jazzy and classically influenced basslines, with Wilson’s powerhouse drumming backing everything to create a hard rock vibe infused with prog elements.“
Non-Playable Characters is a new power trio out of Pittsburgh who are readying their debut release due later in the year. Born out of a jam session in 2018, the band will be performing tomorrow night (Saturday 2/22) at Stage 1 in Clairton on a bill with Leaping the Bull, God Hates Unicorns, The Grimey Onez and Prime 8. I want to thank Matt Penco (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
It was a Chuck Berry greatest hits compilation. That guy made me want to learn how to play guitar when I was a kid.
Your last album bought?
Last month I bought an old CD copy of A Song for You by The Temptations. I still buy CD’s and records because the mastering is often better. I don’t like to stream music unless I have no other choice, because the poor sound quality does a disservice to artists’ hard work. Someday lossless streaming will be the norm.
Favorite album of all time?
That’s a toss-up between Seventh Sojourn by The Moody Blues and I Robot by The Alan Parsons Project. Both albums are masterpieces and I will be pleasantly surprised if they’re ever topped.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Fatal Expectation by The Reformation. Just kidding.
First concert attended?
Marshall Tucker Band. I was 4 and they were my favorite artist at the time. My dad even managed to get Doug Gray’s autograph for me… I still have it framed somewhere. His voice is incredible.
Last concert?
Tool when they came to Pittsburgh a couple months ago. It was very refreshing to see a rock and roll band of that caliber reach the top of the charts again.
Favorite concert ever?
ELO in Detroit, 2018. I waited decades to see them and they delivered better than I expected.
Least favorite concert?
Dennis DeYoung, only because it got rained out halfway through.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I was born, raised, and spent most of my life in Pittsburgh. That being said, there is a certain buffalo chicken pizza place here that I know for a fact I can’t live without. Ask me about it sometime. Aside from that, the local music scene keeps getting better. With how far social media has come, it is much easier than it was a decade ago to take a DIY approach to showcasing your music in this city. It seems like there is always a great show going on somewhere.
Thanks, Matt. I somewhat agree with you on the audio quality of the music on streaming services but for me to worry about the audiophile characteristics of Spotify when the device I am using, my phone, is also a cause for downgraded quality, it seems a moot point. Now if I have a high end stereo system in my listening room then I would probably opt for hi-res files (or vinyl) where you can actually discern the difference. To each his own but all streaming services suffer in no small part to what you are listening to them on.
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“Form is Emptiness” is the first complete work stemming from guitar experimentation live and in the studio. To take the listener on a sonic voyage of reverberated canyons, and sludge ridden drones. Creating ominous sounds out of minimalist architecture.“
Fuzznaut is the moniker of Pittsburgh based solo electric guitarist Emilio Rizzo, who composes music as a means to summon sequences that are a complex clamor of timbre and power ambiance. His latest EP entitled Form is Emptiness will most likely be the core of his set as he performs at The Government Center next Saturday (2/22) on a bill that includes Frame and Mantle, Fortunate (NY), and overtheweather. I want to thank Emilio for taking time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I think it was Korn – Follow the Leader. It was the first record I went the record store and just bought. I had to be 12 and discovered Korn before I got into punk/hardcore and that record just dropped and it was the cusp of the whole new metal thing. They did a funny thing where the first track was like number 23 and then they had the hidden track (five minutes of silence after the last song, and then boom a skit or a secret song). Remember when that was a thing? Despite not listening to Korn that much anymore I do give them credit to get me to go the record store and really dig into music.
Your last album bought?
Aesop Rock and Tobacco – Malibu Ken. I love hip-hop. This is the best in class. Sick rhymes, and synth production. This album was on my constant rotation last year.
Favorite album of all time?
I don’t have a favorite of all time, but an artist I keep going back to is Dead Meadow. Their whole catalog is vintage yet contemporary and their songs have so much depth that you can keep going back to it. They draw from a lot of influences, but it comes out their own. On the hip-hop front it would have to be The Roots for similar reasons.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
…And You Will Know Us From The Trail of the Dead – Tao of the Dead. After loving their previous album I was really disappointed and not feeling most of the songs off this record. One day my phone was shuffling songs and the track “Tao of the Dead, Pt. 2 Strange News from Another Planet” came on. Blown away. A single 16-minute epic of noise/art rock and orchestral music. There arrangements are insane and it brought back some of vibes of what I love about them. They can make songs sound so huge and epic yet still be just rock and roll.
First concert attended?
‘Weird Al’, and he killed it. He was funny but his band was incredibly talented and has some of the best guitar solos I have ever seen live.
Last concert?
Silversun Pickups at the Roxian. I have been wanting to see Silversun Pickups for a while now. I so happy to catch them at the new Roxian which was fantastic. They were killer, great band and such killer songs.
Favorite concert ever?
I have been to so many I can’t narrow it down to one, but one of my favorites worth a mention would have been the many times I have seen The Dillinger Escape Plan. Absolutely ahead of their time, infections energy, insane musicianship, and utter chaos live show. Also, the lead singer would jump into the crowd and breath fire right on the crowd.
Least favorite concert?
The last time I saw Social Distortion. I have seen them a handful of times when they would play some of there faster songs or mix it up, and they were great. The last time it was mostly the slow ballad country inspired stuff, which is not my taste, and a fight broke out during the set, which just added to the disappointment and the awkwardness.
Thanks, Emilio. The venue explosion is indeed incredible. I have been around for so long that when I started, there was a handful of places to see a concert. Over the years it steadily grew but within the last few years they are popping up left and right. Way cool to be a concert-goer these days.
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“Pittsburgh musician doing what he loves and sharing it with the world ❤️”
TyDanzuso is a Pittsburgh based multi-intrumentalist and producer who writes, arranges, performs, and records all his music by himself. Handling Guitar, Bass, Keys and Vocals in his bedroom, Ty is planning on a big 2020 as he preps his debut full-length, a follow up to his 2019 EP Soul. He also plans a big push to perform live around town and will do so tomorrow night, Saturday (2/8) at The Government Center along with JGGZ Patel and blog fave Leila Rhodes. I want to thank Ty for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
First album I bought with my own money was Black Sabbath’s Paranoid on vinyl for like 5 bucks.
Your last album bought?
FKJ’s French Kiwi Juice.
Favorite album of all time?
Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Ladyland.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
This one was hard for me, I try not to have expectations going into an album but maybe Back to Black by Amy Winehouse only because I love her debut album Frank so much and actually hearing the progression from hope & joy to sadness & loneliness makes me sad, still a really well made album though.
First concert attended?
I want to say it was The Clarks at Ribfest, they put on an awesome show and I remember being blown away by how loud everything was.
Last concert?
Tyler, The Creator.
Favorite concert ever?
FKJ at The Union Transfer in Philadelphia.
Least favorite concert?
Live music is always pretty amazing to me no matter what but probably that Clarks show that was my first concert ever just because I’ve seen so many other artists and musicians live since then.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
It’s a city with SO much to do and SO much to see. It’s filled with a lot of open minded creative people who don’t want to just see themselves succeed but see the others around them succeed, it’s a beautiful hub for artists and creatives of all types & I’m just grateful to be a small part of it!
Thanks, Tyler. I always get so impressed with musicians who do everything themselves. It’s difficult enough to learn one instrument, let alone ALL of them… and handling all the production to boot? Respect!
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“2019 Live. 2020- LP. Film. Book. Poetry. Other worlds. Join the journey.“
The Quiet Loud is a Pittsburgh dream rock / neo-psych band that has been around for a few years now, but have rarely played out live. Come check out the band perform at their second gig ever over in Millvale at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls this Sunday (2/2) as they celebrate Groundhog Day with fellow locals Larga Veda, Safety Last, and Modern Welfare. I want to thank Brandon Mitchell (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Essential Divinyls.
Your last album bought?
Boy and Bear, Suck on Light.
Favorite album of all time?
Urban Hymns.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Green Day, Uno!, Dos!, Tré!
First concert attended?
INXS.
Last concert?
Silversun Pickups.
Favorite concert ever?
Stone Roses or Verve at MSG.
Least favorite concert?
Foo Fighters.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Love that Swamp Rats and Ordells were centered here.
Thanks, Brandon. Have fun at the gig. 2020 shall henceforth be named The Year of The Quiet Loud.
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“ShowPony is an instrumental rock band that started out in Washington DC in 2010. Since then, they’ve played a bunch of shows, recorded two full-length albums (both at Mr. Smalls), and toured the midwest US and parts of Canada. Blending math, classic, pop and prog rock together, ShowPony offers an exciting live show full of contagious energy feeding off the enjoyment these three members get from playing music.“
ShowPony is a dual-city based band celebrating the release of their two albums, Pony Up and Pony Down, with shows in both Washington DC (last month) and in Pittsburgh at Spirit Hall this Sunday (1/26) with guests Smoke Wizzard and Anton Ego as support. I want to thank Eric Sakmar (Bass) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
II, The Presidents of the United States of America.
Your last album bought?
Knife, Astrology Now.
Favorite album of all time?
Close to the Edge, Yes.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Chickenfoot, self titled.
First concert attended?
Bela Fleck & The Flecktones at the Palace in Greensburg.
Last concert?
Astrology Now, Outsideinside and Silver Car Crash at Spirit.
Favorite concert ever?
This Will Destroy You, underneath The Vault at Spirit.
Least favorite concert?
Sammy Hagar in 2002.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh has a very vibrant and supportive music community. There’s room for everybody!
Thank, Eric. I heard some cool things abut that Astrology Now show. With a full band behind Greg, the new album and live set kicks some ass!
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“Passionate about stunning the crowd with her abilities and talents the band is fronted by Jessica, a wide ranging, screaming and operatic stylist. Jessica also plays lead and rhythm guitar reminiscent and inspired by the likes of 80’s guitarists Randy Rhoads and Dave Mustaine, along with current guitar virtuoso John 5. In addition Jessica is classically trained flutist and is a lyricist and composer for the band.“
Dematus is a melodic metal trio based in Pittsburgh. Originally from Missouri, the band is self-described as what you would get if Evanescence and System of a Down had an illuminate love child. The band next take the stage in support of their latest EP Side Show tomorrow night (Sat 1/18) at a Tree of Life benefit show at the SUB Alpine Society in Turtle Creek along with Haven State, The Whelming Waters, and Leprosy. I want to thank Jessica AKA Anastera (Guitar/Vocals), Brian AKA The Digger (Bass), and Ryan AKA Count Fuckula (Drums) for taking the time to participate in this edition Of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Jessica: My first album that I bought myself was Slipknot – Iowa.
Your last album bought?
Ryan: Korn – The Nothing.
Favorite album of all time?
Jessica: For now it is Starset Divisions, I have been listening to that CD nonstop. I’m obsessed!
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
We couldn’t name one… lol.
First concert attended?
Brian: Van Halen.
Last concert?
Ryan & Brian: September Mourning when we opened up for her.
Favorite concert ever?
Brian: Sounds Of The Underground, 2005.
Least Favorite Concert?
Jessica: Marilyn Manson and Slipknot at Burgettstown Pennsylvania just because the power went out and the show got cancelled. Was looking forward to seeing Marilyn Manson’s full set, never seen him perform before that.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
We all enjoy meeting and playing with a lot of good local bands.
Thanks, all. Looks like a great lineup for a great cause tomorrow night. Can’t lose.
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“Singin’ about booze, bras, and self-deprecation.“
Dahn ‘N’ Aht is a garage punk rock trio from Pittsburgh who are slowly getting in the local scene by playing out here and there as they will tomorrow, Saturday, January 11 at Howlers. Also on the bill are local faves The Beagle Brothers, God’s Green Apples and Jim Dandies. With a few lo-fi practice recordings available, expect the band to release more music in 2020. I want to thank Holly Fromlak (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
First album you ever bought?
The Lion King soundtrack.
Your last album you bought?
Marika Hackman – Any Human Friend.
Favorite album of all time?
Veruca Salt – American Thighs.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
MGMT – Congratulations.
First concert attended?
Paula Abdul, Color Me Badd at Starlake.
Last concert?
Baroness in Millvale.
Favorite concert ever?
TORRES, Dove and the Wolf at Rock and Roll Hotel.
Least favorite concert?
Circa Survive only because my sister got sick, and I had to take her home. So I missed their performance.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Playing our first gig at Howler’s this year with Pittsburgh locals Near Mint and Garter Shake!
Thanks, Holly. I love hearing of bands forming in Pittsburgh. New bands are always welcome in my humble opinion.
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“Frame and Mantle spent the last year revamping their sound and accumulating sketches they had been writing since the release of their 2016 EP, While Our Fields Lie Fallow.“
Frame and Mantle is an indie post-rock band from Pittsburgh who’s debut album entitled Lost Under Nighttime Sky was released last fall. Performing a couple times a month since then, the band kick off the new decade next Friday, January 10th supporting Why Not from Minneapolis along with locals The Zells at 222 Ormsby on the Southside. I want to thank Connor Freer (Vocals) and Brian Thompson (Guitar) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Connor Freer: My mom used Pepsi Points to buy me Middle of Nowhere by Hanson and Maroon by Barenaked Ladies.
Brian Thompson: I think the first album I ever bought with my own money was Nirvana’s self-titled compilation. It was either that or ‘Weird Al’s The TV Album… I was like 11 so the timeline’s a little fuzzy.
Your last album bought?
Connor: Prison on a Hill by Somos. They released it early to raise money for the family of their guitarist who died suddenly.
Brian: I picked up a copy of our friends Heron’s latest album Sun Release on vinyl when we played together at our own vinyl release show. It’s a fantastic record, and is required listening for any fans of instrumental post-rock out there.
Favorite album of all time?
Connor: Tough question. If we’re talking specifically albums that influenced how I try to write music, it’s a toss-up between Take This To Your Grave by Fall Out Boy and Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge by My Chemical Romance (REUNION MEME).
Brian: In Rainbows by Radiohead. I’ll never forget waking up at 5 AM on release day and downloading it for the bus ride to the renaissance fair for my school’s field trip. I’ve probably listened to it almost a thousand times at this point and it’s never gotten old.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Connor: Also tough. I’m the kind of person who hate-listens to stuff until I like it. When Danger Days (MCR) came out, I was really disappointed by it, but I think I just didn’t give it a chance. I thought of a better one – I loved Make Believe by Weezer, but I haven’t listened to anything from them since that one. They just kinda bore the hell out of me.
Brian: One that stands out to me as being pretty disappointing is Hyperview by Title Fight. When it dropped I really wanted to like it, but I just couldn’t get into it. I recently tried giving it another chance, and there are definitely a few good songs on it (mainly the Ned songs), but it’s just too washy and lacks the drive and urgency of all their other releases.
First concert attended?
Connor: Streetlight Manifesto, Gym Class Heroes, Whole Wheat Bread, and two local openers – and I recently befriended the bassist of one of those openers, lol.
Brian: I’m pretty sure it was Huey Lewis and the News in Erie. That had to have been in like 1998. I think I only knew “Hip to Be Square”, and I think he played that as an encore, which was tight.
Last concert?
Connor: Swiss Army’s beer/single release party for the beer/song “Host” by Dancing Gnome. Unexpectedly met up with some friends there and it was a good time.
Brian: I saw Thom Yorke, which was phenomenal. I’m not as familiar with his solo work as I am with his Radiohead output, but his performance was super energetic and the visuals were insane.
Favorite concert ever?
Connor: I’ve been to so many different kinds of concerts that it’s hard to pick just one. Some amazing house shows in Pittsburgh or on tour with my own past bands in Chicago and Salem/Boston, some arena concerts where I saw Coheed & Cambria or Between the Buried and Me… I saw The Wonder Years/Citizen/Fireworks/Real Friends/Modern Baseball at Cleveland’s Agora and that was really good. Now that I think of it, every MoBo show I’ve seen went completely off the rails because everyone loved them so much.
Brian: Audiotree 2015 hands down. Every band I saw (Foxing, And So I Watch You From Afar, CHON, The Fall of Troy, etc.) played incredible sets.
Least favorite concert?
Connor: Several years ago, I saw a local Pittsburgh band who played Four Chords Fest in the strip district. One of the dudes pointed out that his young near-infant son was in attendance, and he wasn’t wearing ear protection. That’s not cool in my book.
Brian: I remember being pretty let down after seeing Structures live. Their performance was sloppy and they had virtually no stage presence. You could accuse their recorded output of being a little too polished, so it makes sense they couldn’t really match that intensity live.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Connor: I love that there’s a lot of great art in Pittsburgh, both music and physical art/poetry/etc., and I love that it’s a small-world type of place where you run into friends and acquaintances often, and find out that your personal world is more interconnected than you thought.
Brian: I moved here from Erie three years ago, and I keep finding new things to love about the city. But my single favorite Pittsburgh thing will always be Jerry’s Records. If anyone I know is visiting the city for the first time, I’ll take them there and it’ll always blow their mind just how much vinyl they have there.
Thanks, fellas. Love the album and really looking forward to seeing you play sometime soon!
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“The band’s creative process usually begins with a member presenting an idea to the group; sometimes chords for a song or a melody, then the rest of the group collaborates on the song. They are continuously working on creating new music for upcoming album releases. “
Flashpoint Run is an indie rock/pop band from Pittsburgh who recently released their debut album entitled Worlds on Fire last October and will be featuring those songs at their first show of the new decade in late January on the Southside. I want to thank Brice Taylor (Bass) and Seth McClaine (Guitar) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Brice Taylor: Big Willie Style – Will Smith.
Your last album bought?
Brice: The Dusk in Us – Converge.
Favorite album of all time?
Brice: Lateralus – TOOL.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Brice: Anything Drake.
First concert attended?
Brice: The Guess Who.
Last concert?
Seth McClaine: Lake Street Dive.
Favorite concert ever?
Seth: Arcade Fire in Pittsburgh, 2018.
Least favorite concert?
Seth: Radiohead in Pittsburgh, 2018.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Seth: Meeting the other guys in the band, playing shows together at a lot of cool venues in Pittsburgh, and meeting a lot of great people.
Thanks, Brice and Seth. I am really digging the album and once again, I cannot tell you how much I love discovering new music from bands I never heard of before from Pittsburgh. Here’s to rocking out way into the future!
#SupportPGHMusic
Stevans & Associates, PLLC presents
HughShows Holiday 2018
The holiday edition of the popular HughShows television program.
Featuring 17 performances from Pittsburgh’s most talented musicians covering your favorite seasonal classics including a few original songs written just for this special.
Led by musical director/co-host Nathan Zoob, the house band (including Abigail Iksic, Shawn McGregor, Roger Romero, and Chris Trepagnier) backs guest vocalists:
Spish
Mark Dignam
Sierra Sellers
Gene Stovall
Beck Gallagher
André Costello with Guy Russo
Chloe Wiecz
Markila Sherman
and Addi Twigg.
Special musical guests also include:
Avi Diamond with Morgan Erina
Murder for Girls
Just Fern
Arlo Aldo
Molly Alphabet
Wreck Loose
Clara Kent
Broken Fences.
Special thanks to:
Deutschtown Music Festival
Pittsburgh Community Television
Randyland
Just-Records
Misra Records
and Claire Sergent Walls Legal Group.
HughShows Holiday is brought to you by:
Stevans & Associates, PLLC
“We Make Your Accounting Less Taxing”
Accounting, Tax, and Business Consulting
154 Noble Avenue
Crafton, PA 15205
(412) 875-5719
http://www.stevanscpa.com
#HughShowsHoliday #SupportPGHMusic
“spooky stuff, writing sad songs, openly weeping“
I Swallow Ghosts is the moniker for Pittsburgh based musician Corey Scordo who did all the writing, recording and music for the me pop punk project and is working to get a band together to perform his music out in a live setting. With a full length released last fall entitled Almost, Close Enough, Corey manages to pull off the full band aesthetic while keeping that DIY vibe. I want to thank Corey for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first album I bought with my own money was All Killer No Filler by Sum 41! Prior to that I usually gifted albums for Christmas or birthdays. When I saw that album at FYE I had never heard of Sum 41 but my 14 year-old brain thought “I could be friends with these guys.”
Your last album bought?
I can’t remember the last physical copy I bought. But the last digital copy I bought was You Can’t Rebuild Forever by The Traditional. The recently did their last show and I didn’t want to lose access to one of my favorite bands music!
Favorite album of all time?
I, No Longer by Pentimento hits so hard for me. Seriously got me through a very hard time in my life and it was nice to know I wasn’t alone through this whole album. They’re super friendly dudes as well!
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
That’s really hard to pick! Remo Drive’s album this year was pretty rough considering how good their first album was. But I don’t want to be the person telling bands to not grow and change their sound.
First concert attended?
Oh man! Back when the pop DIY scene was huge I saw The Ergs! At the local arcade. Little did I know how big of an impact they would make in pop punk and emo. They were staying at a friend’s house on tour and we played boggle after the show. Good times.
Last concert?
Tigers Jaw and The Menzingers
Favorite concert ever?
That’s another hard one. Man, I saw Mom Jeans and Just Friends at The Smiling Moose last year and it just felt right, lol. Super tight and great performances from both bands. I mean, local shows growing up will always hold a place in my heart though. I still think about seeing bands that blew up playing at our local youth center.
Least favorite concert?
I can’t say I really had any bad concert experiences. There have been shows that were a little boring. I didn’t much care for Minus the Bear but mostly because the crowd was just terrible.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’ve been in Pittsburgh for about two years now. I grew up in a pretty small town. Pittsburgh just feels like home. Most people are very inviting and it’s easy to strike up conversation with people I’ve never met. I love hearing stories from old yinzers. The neighborhoods give this place a small town feel. I’ve been watching Dean Bog on YouTube. If you haven’t checked out his neighborhoods series, I would highly recommend it.
Thanks, Corey. It always amazes me that one person can do all the playing and production on a song and make it sound like a full band. So impressive.
#SupportPGHMusic
#HughShowsXV
Milpool is a Pittsburgh based punk quintet led by Bobby Smith (Guitar/Vocals). He also happens to run the DIY label Lemon Tree Records and will be performing next week on Friday, December 20th at McGarvey’s Bar in Altoona, PA along with The Snipped and E.N.D. I want to thank Bobby for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Smash Mouth Fush Yu Mang and I am weirdly proud of that. That album rules!
Your last album bought?
I don’t buy full albums nearly as often as I should, but my most recent purchase was probably PUP The Dream is Over.
Favorite album of all time?
Bouncing Souls How I Spent My Summer Vacation.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Smash Mouth Astro Lounge. This album and all subsequent music was so bad that it makes people laugh at the idea of Fush Yu Mang being a good album. But it really is!
First concert attended?
Cold and Dope at the Crowbar in State College, PA. I was never a huge metal head (though I did love System of a Down and Soulfly) but my older sister and her friends were metal heads. Which is why this was my first show ever. Shortly followed by a System of a Down concert.
Last concert?
Most recently I saw Booze Radly and Danvers at 222 Ormsby. Trying to go to and book more local shows, but it’s not always easy while living the dad life. We need more matinee punk shows for parents to attend and even bring their kids. Start ‘em young and all that.
Favorite concert ever?
Back in like 2001 I saw The Bouncing Souls, Anti-Flag, International Noise Conspiracy, and Common Rider as part of the Plea for Peace/Take Action Tour
Least favorite concert?
I don’t know, I went to Lollapalooza once. But in general a bad concert is typically better than a good anything else.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
PGH is interesting because it’s not a huge city but there are so many shows in any given week! Always of varying genres too. I am hoping to be able to be a small part of what makes PGH so fun and diverse musically!
Thanks, Bobby. I cannot imagine what it takes to run a record label. Seriously, you have to inherently love what you are doing to be able to maintain it. Kind of like a music blog…
#SupportPGHMusic
#HughShowsXV
“The Clock crafts their sound from the music that is constantly surrounding their lives. Their arsenal of original tunes is as varied as their musical tastes. The backbone of their sound is formed by tight communication through improvisation, often allowing the band to transcend the “known” and “recognizable” into uncharted territory. This energy creates an exciting environment for both the band and the audience.“
The Clock Reads are a jazz rock band from Pittsburgh who are making a name for themselves by consistently performing memorable shows that turn the ‘jam band’ moniker on it’s head by infusing elements of funk, psychedelia, and freeform into their own stew of rock. Most notable for their NYE gigs, the band will be headlining Salem’s Event Center on December 31st to ring in 2020 with support from locals Shaq Nicholson and Afro N’at. I want to thank Steve Ippolito (Drums/Vocals) and Jason Greenlaw (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Update: There band posted on it’s Facebook page that this might be the last show for them for awhile. Read the full message below.
“Hello Everyone, we have a special announcement regarding our album release show this New Year’s Eve. Beginning in the New Year, the band will be pursuing other opportunities leaving us unable to perform together for an indefinite amount of time. As such, our show on December 31 will be an extra special event. We are all playing at our best and are excited to celebrate with you what will be our last show for the time being. Thank you to all of our friends and family who have supported us over the last six years.
With love and gratitude,
John, Jason, Michael, and Steve“
The first album you ever bought?
Steve Ippolito: Probably a Beatles album. Rubber Soul if I remember correctly.
Jason Greenlaw: A Pink Floyd Greatest Hits compilation.
Your last album bought?
Steve: Miles Davis Live at the Plugged Nickel.
Jason: Johnny Smith Favorites, Yes Close to the Edge.
Favorite album of all time?
Steve: Thrust by Herbie Hancock (runner up would be Tapestry by Carole King).
Jason: Wes Montgomery Smokin’ at the Half Note, Pat Martino El Hombre, Jimi Hendrix Band of Gypsys.
First concert attended?
Steve: The Doobie Brothers.
Jason: Earth, Wind, and Fire w/ Michael McDonald.
Last concert?
Steve: Billy Cobham Crosswinds Project at Thunderbird.
Jason: Billy Cobham.
Favorite concert ever?
Steve: PAT METHENY! at Carnegie Lecture Hall with Nate Smith and James Francies.
Jason: Pat Metheny at Carnegie Music Hall, Kurt Rosenwinkel with Peter Bernstein, Tortoise.
Least favorite concert?
Steve: Don’t feel like answering this one to be honest. Don’t want to offend anyone.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Steve: I will always be grateful for all the friends, family, and fans that take time out of their busy lives to see us play our original music. Also our show at ‘The Church’ (39 Cabinet Way in Lawrenceville) on New Years 2016 going into 2017 has now become a legendary show among us that will never be forgotten. Shoutout to our friend Joe Marino for being a huge help in all of this. Also our best friend, and unofficial 5th member of the band, Dante Villagomez is the best merch guy/hype man we could ask for.
Jason: Annual Pitt Jazz Seminar, The Rex Theater, Joe Negri!!
Thanks, fellas. I realize the ‘least favorite’ questions could leave many a little unsettled as to not ruffle feathers but I believe that sone albums and shows could be disappointing for a myriad of reasons that aren’t a direct dig on the artists.
#SupportPGHMusic
#HughShowsXV