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“It’s like how a water snake would move, it slithers and swims.”
Swither is a pop punk band from Pittsburgh who released a debut EP late last year entitled We Tried. Also contributing a new song “Mutual Friend” on the fantastic Crafted Sounds compilation Bridges, the world awaits as the band readies their sophomore effort. As we do, I want to thank Eli Enis (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first album I remember buying is The Black Eyed Peas’ Monkey Business shortly after it came out, so I must’ve been in fourth grade. I bought the CD at Barnes & Noble with my whole family and I remember coming home and listening to it with my grandpa and dancing around the living room to “Pump It.” They were the first band, or group if you will, that I ever considered myself a fan of.
Your last album bought?
Earlier today I bought this album called We Could Have Been Anywhere by this band Lester on Bandcamp. It’s a really cool shoegaze record that someone recommended to me, and it was right up my alley
Favorite album of all time?
Oof this is hard, but I’m gonna go with the easy option: Weezer’s Blue Album. It’s the only album I can think of in which every single song is a masterpiece. No one’s ever done grungy power-pop better, and I’m sure no one ever will.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I guess I don’t really have a least favorite album, but one of the most disappointing albums I can think of is Kanye’s Ye. A lot of that has to do with all the dumb shit Kanye was saying before and after its release, but I definitely was holding out for a work of undeniable genius to overwhelm his general idiocy. It didn’t happen, that record is pretty bad and it made that whole situation even more of a letdown than it already was.
First concert attended?
My dad took me to see this local ska-punk band called The Levar Burtones in 2006, I was in 6th grade. I was awed by the big sweaty dudes skanking and it definitely spurred my interest in punk and showed me how magical music is in a live setting.
Last concert?
I saw PUP and Ratboys play at The Rex the other day. Two of the best contemporary rock bands, it was real fun.
Favorite concert ever?
This is another hard one, but a show that absolutely blew my mind was seeing Mannequin Pussy play Mr. Roboto Project in summer of 2017. Barely anyone was there but the band just played so hard and commanded the room in a way that I had never seen before. I loved that band before that show and I was still just utterly mesmerized by how they translated their sound in a live environment. That band is really important to Swither in general, and a lot of the stuff we do is definitely inspired by the risks they take sonically and the energy of their live show.
Least favorite concert?
I can’t think of any specific ones, but in early college I went through a dubstep phase for a little while and ended up seeing some really insufferable shows. It wasn’t that the music was necessarily bad (a lot of it was), but I did not feel at all welcome in that type of crowd and the sets were always so long and repetitive without any breaks in between. Maybe I should’ve taken more drugs, cause I would always get super tired after the first hour and be counting down the bass drops until I could go home. But to be honest, those shows can be really exciting, just not for me.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
The Pittsburgh scene we’re a part of (the DIY punk, indie, emo universe) is really unique and cool in a lot of different ways. I think my favorite aspect is how diverse the bills are. I’ll rarely go to a show where all the bands are emo, or post-punk, or indie-pop. It’s always a mix of genres and touring bands almost always seem really happy to be here. We’ve only been playing shows for like half-a-year and we already feel really welcomed in the scene, and I think that speaks to the general friendliness of the community and its devout interest in discovering new music.
Thanks, Eli. Yeah, the support within the scene is always great to hear about. There may be cliques, but with the strength of small ‘communities’ signifies to me that boundaries can be crossed if people try for the greater of the good. OK, sappy, soapbox rant over. Plus, The Levar Burtones? What a great a great band name!
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Strand of Oaks is currently touring behind their excellent new album, Eraserland. My buddy Max Somerville from local band Wreck Loose was tapped to play keys on the tour and when a Pittsburgh date was announced, the date was a rare weeknight pin in my schedule. Unfortunately, the show sold out and to my surprise, longtime faves Apex Manor was a late announcement as opener. The minute I discovered this, I contacted Apex Manor songwriter Ross Flournoy (who plays in Strand of Oaks band along with Max) and he quickly put me on the guest list. Catching up with Ross, seeing his hometown crowd cheer Max on, and enjoying two great bands has me thinking twice about avoiding the Southside on a weeknight in the future.
Huge thanks to Ross, who’s new album Heartbreak City comes out on Merge Records May 31 but was on sale last night and I have to say, it is so damn good!
Sweet video via Zoob.
For a limited time, you can now listen to exclusive audio from André Costello and the Minor’s set from Saturday, October 11, 2014 live from Eide’s Entertainment.
Enjoy this while you can as it will go back into the vault on the May 18th.
Audio recorded by J Vega of the Wilderness Recording Studio.
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The cool folks at Roxian Live were kind enough to have me come into the newest Pittsburgh venue The Roxian Theatre, located in McKees Rocks, to take a few snaps of the brand new space.
The design is modern but compliments the remaining and refurbished ceiling and bas relief designs on the exterior.
With the venue capable of holding between 675-1411 capacity, depending on the seats or no seats setup for any given event, the main room is a wide stage level area located behind the soundboard and a large pit right before the stage which can hold 94 seats when not general admission. Above are 365 permanent seats in the balcony area, including a VIP space which can hold 60 with a private bar all its own. That would be one of three full bars, a second one behind the balcony and the largest on the main floor. There will be 20 rotating taps featuring local and craft beers and if you are an Untappd app user, you are in luck as they they will be participating as well. Most shows will be all-ages, even with alcohol served but there may be 21+ shows. There is no kitchen but plans are to have 1-6 food trucks next to the building depending on the weather. Food stays outside, though.
Street parking can be found around the venue and they also have spaces behind back (where the annual Feastival takes place.) The venue is working with Rite Aid a few blocks away to be able to use their lot which has more than enough parking for a sell out show.
The first two shows are a free ones with The New Mastersounds both this Thursday (5/9) and Friday (5/10).
I want to thank box office manager and publicist Alex Neal for the tour and special thanks to Lindsay Dragan for the incomparable ‘guitar poses!’
“Really tight math-pop band from Pittsburgh ;)”
Short Fictions is an indie rock band hailing from Pittsburgh, PA who have a new song called “Living in Places Like These Can Be Bad for Your Health”on the fantastic Crafted Sounds comp Bridges. They will more than likely play it at their next show coming up at the end of May (29th) at The Bushnel with a stacked lineup of some heavy indie bands. I want to thank Sam Treber (Guitar, Organ, Piano, Keyboards, Singing-Saw, Lap-Steel, Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first album I remember getting that wasn’t already in my parents collection was Aaron Carter’s Aarons Party Come Get It that my best friend from pre-school’s mom dubbed onto a cassette tape for me haha. Some of my other early favorites of mine included the soundtrack to the Digimon movie (1999), and Queen’s Greatest Hits. I can’t exactly remember the first album I purchased of my own accord, but it might have been Elton John’s Greatest Hits.
Your last album bought?
Portrayal of Guilt at the Mr. Roboto Project
Favorite album of all time?
Empire! Empire! (I was a Lonely Estate) – What it Takes to Move Forward. The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds is a close number two.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I’ll just say anything that the Beach Boys did after 1968, although some albums had their moments, it was mostly downhill from there.
First concert attended?
Pretty sure it was Aaron Carter in a local high school gym, ha-ha.
Last concert?
Portrayal of Guilt at the Mr. Roboto Project.
Favorite concert ever?
I’ll say Short Fictions’ The Heart is a Kaleidoscope record release show. It was really cool to have people come celebrate that, and we did a lot of weird stuff like, having a pinata that was full of spaghetti and mini bottles of wine.
Least favorite concert?
Any show that I run sound for in which some dudebro comes up to me and says I’m not doing my job right.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I love Pittsburgh with all my heart, there’s a really thriving music scene with a lot great people working together and being friendly and supportive of one another. I so often fear that gentrification is gonna run the music scene into the ground when there’s just not space for music, poor people, grittiness etc. Fuck UPMC, U PItt, CMU, Walnut Capital, Keller Williams, Whole Foods, Amazon, and Bill Peduto.
Thanks, Sam. Man, I do love the Beach Boys, as well. I can agree with you that after ’68 the music does go a little South but how can it not to? And yes, there are some REALLY fine gems sprinkled throughout their catalogue after that year.
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“Feralcat’s music is equal parts prog rock, jazz fusion and art rock, utilizing sweeping lyrical melodies over heavy guitar-driven rhythms to create a sound that you can both hear and feel deeply. These songs are meant to break barriers and melt faces, with improvised saxophone music that you can bump and mosh to!”
Feralcat is the moniker for Pittsburgh based artist, saxophonist, and composer Roger Rafael Romero, who is busy prepping the release of his debut self-titled release for June 1st.
Today I am bringing you the second video from Feralcat for the song “Jaguar”. Directed by Benton Palermo, it features Roger performing the song in one take as he runs through Pittsburgh and eventually ending up under the DLL Convention Center.
To celebrate the upcoming six song EP, he will be throwing a double release party with the cosmic aliens of Starship Mantis that same day at Mr. Smalls.
Discover Feralcat.
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Attention all Pittsburgh and surrounding areas bands and musicians.
I have been pondering an idea for several years now of producing a compilation of local bands covering local music.
When we put on the HughShows Secret Santaplooza shows a few years ago, I asked the participating bands to cover any other Pittsburgh band they wanted to and put it in their set. These were truly special shows because of that aspect. The Harlan Twins covered Meeting of Important People. The Red Western played a The Karl Hendricks Trio tune. Grand Piano even did “Camptown Races” by Stephen Foster! Unfortunately, these performances were never documented and are now lost to the ether.
Ever since then I have been mulling over the thought of bringing back that idea and feel now is the time to do so.
I do not know how we will present this but whether it is an album, a limited tape run or even a download, I will decide that once we gauge interest in the project and see where we can go with it.
For now, I am calling on any and all local musicians to let me know if you are interested in participating. It doesn’t matter what kind of music you play.
All genres are accepted and all ideas welcome.
I am always struck by the fact that this hasn’t occurred yet as I know first hand there is an unlimited supply of talent here to make this happen. I do know that this will be one of the coolest projects to come out of the city.
Let me know what you think.
Email me at hugh@hughshows.com (not my gmail account, please) to get this started.
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Today I am excited to debut the latest music video from Pittsburgh rockers Bikini Island for their song “Vines”. The tune was produced by Harrison Wargo of Badboxes and The Morning Light and features a catchy hook that really does stick in your head after a few listens. The video shows the band disenfranchised in their menial food service industry jobs and fulfilling everyone’s fantasy of becoming rock and rollers. The video will be everywhere on Friday (4/19) but you can enjoy it here early, only on HughShows!
From the band:
“We were looking at the past two records we put out and thought we could do a better job writing songs that can really make you feel something while you’re listening. With Vines we simplified our writing and I think we’ve captured an essence or an emotion that we hope people can vibe with and relate to. We had a bad experience as a band with a relationship that ended up being manipulative and causing a lot of inner turmoil within the group. In the end we were able to move past it and felt a huge sense of relief when we finally did. This song is sort of about letting go of that time period and moving forward together. I think everyone has had a moment in their life when they finally rid themselves of some bad juju – and this song sort of personifies that feeling. The idea for the video came from a sketch called Barth’s Burgers on an old Nickelodeon show ‘You Can’t Do That On Television’. In the show the chef is just this repulsive nasty dude and he’s slinging burgers to kids in a restaurant – it was something that I remember watching as a kid vividly and it stuck with me. The guy honestly scared me a little when I was a kid and I thought it was such a cool aesthetic, and we ran with the idea from there. Eric pulled in one of his good friends (since elementary school!) Kevin Gubish to work on the video, and they really did put an insane amount of planning into getting it all set up. We shot the whole thing in one very long day, but it was tons of fun. I also have to shout out our buds at Wallrose Club, who were so accommodating in letting us take over their building for a day. They have a great yoga studio and host awesome events and stuff there, check them out!”
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For the fourth year in a row, NPR is having their Tiny Desk Contest in which any band can submit a video of an original song to win a chance to perform for the wildly popular Tiny Desk Concert. The contest closed on April 15th, 2019.
As with past years, Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania is represented with some cool submissions. If I missed your entry, please feel free to contact me as this list will be updated to reflect ones that I have not listed.
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I sat down with Connor Murray from the independent music label Crafted Sounds based in Pittsburgh. Connor talks about starting, maintaining and the future of the label which produces cassettes of bands in and around the area and beyond. He also partakes in my First/Last feature.
Make sure to follow them:
You can enjoy the full 90 minute HughShows Holiday musical special right now from the comfort of your home, or phone as these nutty kids do.
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 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, Becki 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, Arlo Aldo, Just Fern, Molly Alphabet, Wreck Loose, Clara Kent, and the long awaited reunion of Broken Fences.
For a small donation to help keep HughShows going in the new year, you can receive the full show as special gift.
As an added incentive, anyone who does donate and download will be entered into a special raffle.
If you are in a band and would like the opportunity to perform at the 2019 Deutschtown Music Festival in July (12th or 13th), now is your chance. One lucky winner will be randomly chosen to play on one of the four outdoor Main Stages of the festival! This year for the first time, there will be four headlining, family-friendly (clean sets, please) stages including the Foreland Stage, the Park Stage, the Skyline Stage, and the Nova Place Stage. If your band is chosen, you can choose which of these stages you would like to perform on.
To be eligible, on the Checkout Page at the bottom under Additional Information, type in your band name in the Notes About Your Order field.
Spread the word to your fanbase and they can donate and download and on your behalf (as long as they enter your band name in the ‘Notes’ field at checkout) to increase your chances!
The download and raffle will only be available starting now until the early part of of 2019 when we will draw and announce a winner in January!
Head on over to www.HughShowsHoliday.com to download.
Good luck and Happy Holidays.
I am thrilled to debut two videos from the upcoming HughShows Holiday feature length show.
We are premiering the entire movie on December 2nd at 6pm at Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall in Carnegie, PA. The program consists of 17 holiday songs performed by your favorite Pittsburgh musicians. Each ticket gets the companion soundtrack from Misra Records.
Clara Kent – “Winter Song”
“Pittsburgh has a reputation of breeding talented musicians and artists ranging from Christina Aguilera to Girl Talk, Wiz Khalifa and Mac Miller. These artists, just to name a few, represent the wide-range of talent that has emerged from the streets of the steel town. With a deep-rooted history in Pittsburgh’s music scene, guitarist Byron Nash has been around for quite some time, building a reputation for his unique style of rock n’ soul guitar playing. Evident in that sound are the various genres of music that have influenced his life, including: early thrash metal, jam, funk and soul, to Hip-Hop, jazz, blues and world music. He spent years as guitarist in his first group, the power trio SPORADIC who played the festival circuit pretty heavy for years.”
The Deutschtown Music Festival
starts this week! Every day on the blog I am featuring a band from Pittsburgh who I discovered through the submission process and are performing this weekend.
BYRON NASH & PLANB is a Pittsburgh based rock band who wear their eclectic influences right on their sleeve, out in the open for everyone to hear. Taking elements of jazz, metal, r&b, and straight up hard rock, the band have been making waves in the music scene by showing us exactly how it is done by simply doing the work without any excuses. See for yourself how the band rocks it out on Saturday (7/14) as they take the HughShows Stage at 5pm for the 6th Annual Deutschtown Music Festival. I want to thank Byron (Guitars/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The Gap Band 3.
Your last album bought?
Rufus and Chaka Khan Live.
Favorite album of all time?
That’s really tough since I’m a collector and own and love so many records. So I’ll just say what my favorite album in this listening season is. Stevie Wonder
– Songs In the Key of Life.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Weird question. I’d say the last Justin Timberlake didn’t strike me as hard as the first three, however, seeing it live made me like it more.
First concert attended?
Rick James.
Last concert?
Slayer, Testament, Anthrax, Lamb of God, Behemoth.
Favorite concert ever?
Ever? I’d say the one that had a major impact was Metallica and Queensryche, The And Justice for All/Operation Mindcrime tour 1988.
Least favorite concert?
Cake.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is the place where I found myself as a musician, artist and businessman. I learned and grew with the city. My favorite part is the hard blue collar work ethic that has seeped its way into everything that I do. Everyone flocks to NYC or LA for opportunity, but I believe you can do major things here, even if you have to travel to pull it off. The new growth has opened the door for endless possibilities. I love that about Pittsburgh. It is a place to hone your skill and talent before taking it to the next level.
Thanks, Byron. Can’t wait to hang on Saturday, buddy. I really love your attitude and ethic when it comes to participating in this music scene of ours.
We’re loud, we like to drink, there are a lot of us.”
The Deutschtown Music Festival starts this week! Every day on the blog I am featuring a band from Pittsburgh who I discovered through the submission process and are performing this weekend.
iNCO FIdO is a ska-punk rock and roll band from Pittsburgh who totally blew me away when I saw them perform at the Millvale Music Festival in May. Comparisons to The Commonheart are a tad too easy but with a stage full of musicians, a horn section and energetic frontman singing his heart out, you will share the sentiment the moment you witness their amazingly, energetic live show. Do yourself the favor and catch them at the 6th Annual Deutschtown Music Festival this Saturday, July 14 at 4pm on the Skyline Stage in Allegheny Commons Park by the Sue Murray Pool. For a preview, the band will be performing a couple songs on 102.5 WDVE this morning (7/11) at 9:15am. I want to thank Chuck Veri (Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first album I ever bought for myself was Dookie by Green Day, this album began the journey down a punk rock rabbit hole that I still haven’t found the bottom of 24 years later.
Your last album bought?
I just recently bought Pacifisticuffs by Diablo Swing Orchestra. I love this band, a little bit of swing, a little bit of opera, and a whole lot of heavy metal, I’ve never heard anything like this band.
Favorite album of all time?
This question required quite a bit of thought, but I’ve decided to go with Gemstones by Adam Green. Imagine a collection of songs in which Neil Diamond wrote all the music and Hunter S. Thompson wrote all the lyrics. This album has a profound impact on my song writing, got me thinking in layers, and is a great example of duality in song writing as the music is very beautiful, but lyrically very ugly and dark.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I’ve been trying to come up with an answer for this, and I’m drawing a blank. I’ve had some albums that I was initially disappointed in, but upon further listening I’ve either found the good in them, or realized that the problem was myself.
First concert attended?
The Beach Boys at Star Lake Amphitheater. I don’t remember the exact date, but it was the summer of 1991.
Last concert?
Punk in Drublic Festival at Highmark Stadium. This was an awesome day, my buddy DanK was able to score us some staff passes so we got to watch Bad Religion play their Suffer album front to back from the private balcony… I may have teared up a bit.
Favorite concert ever?
It was Against Me! April 6th 2004 at the Ottobar in Baltimore MD. I was all alone in a strange city and the energy in that room was absolutely electric. There was just something in the air that night, with that band and that crowd in that room that I have never felt before or since.
Least favorite concert?
John Michael Montgomery, and it wasn’t even that he didn’t play well, I’m just not a fan of pop-country music.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is my home. I was born and raised here, but throughout my 20’s and early 30’s I traveled extensively. I’ve lived in a number of places, some short term and some long term, but wherever I’ve gone or wherever I’ve tried to settle, no place has ever felt like home. I always end up back in Pittsburgh and if I have my way I’ll never live anywhere else. I love the people, the skyline, the music, the art, the messed up roads, the seemingly arbitrary way that the city is laid out, the “you can’t get there from here”, I love the parks, and the neighborhoods. I love that there are parts of this city where you can go from a completely urbanized setting to a green space that’ll make you forget the city exists in just a few steps. I could go on, but I think I’ve made my point.
Thanks, Chuck. Your Punk in Drublic story is the best of what going to a show is all about. Scoring some VIP seats. The band playing the whole album. It seems to me that fleeting experiences like that are what make up going to shows all worthwhile and stick with you forever.
“alt/indie/rock/pop two piece band trying our best. thanks for listening! :)”
The Deutschtown Music Festival starts this week! Every day on the blog I am featuring a band from Pittsburgh who I discovered through the submission process and are performing this weekend.
Raven Clifton is an indie pop artist from Pittsburgh who is just emerging on the local scene with the help of her fantastic debut Hive Mind. Definitely catch her at the HughShows Stage (Middle and Foreland) this Saturday, July 14 at 1pm at the 6th Annual Deutschtown Music Festival. I want to thank Raven (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I’m not 100% sure about this. Might have been the soundtrack to the Rugrats in Paris movie. Or the very first S Club 7 album. Clearly I was a very cool kid.
Your last album bought?
Favorite album of all time?
I have two, I really can’t decide between them; My Chemical Romance’s The Black Parade and La Dispute’s Wildlife. They both have my angsty, emo little heart.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
The only album I specifically remember being disappointed by was The Killer’s Sam’s Town. But then I listened to it a few times on a cross country road trip and fell in love with it a little bit? So I guess I end up liking anything that I hear enough times.
First concert attended?
It might have been Mindless Self Indulgence? Very weird first concert experience. Lots of people in costumes. I did not understand what was going on.
Favorite concert ever?
Green Day. I saw them for the first time after 21st Century Breakdown came out. They played for like 2+ hours straight and were high energy the whole time, it was amazing.
Least favorite concert?
I once went with my mom to see Def Leppard. Oof. That was not for me. Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’m just slowly starting to get into the music scene here and I’m really excited to become a part of it. I think it’s awesome how many dedicated, passionate people there are here who are (and have been) building up the local music scene with events and festivals and all this DIY jazz. It’s a great place to be.
Thanks, Raven. I have to tell you that I really do love your music. I cannot wait to see you perform this Saturday! And by the way, Def Leppard isn’t TOO bad…
“ATL&S was founded on August 29th 2014 by members Al Snyder & Michael Lewandowski. The death of Michael’s mom sparked an interesting song recording duo that flourished into the sound that we have today. Prior to Beverly Lewandowski passing away, Michael spent many days in the studio with Al recording his own songs and attempting to make it on his own. Upon her death, Michael asked Al to sing the song ‘Goodbye for Now’ and at that moment realized something amazing was created. From there they continued to record song after song and believed in what they were creating. It was so different and unique than anything produced prior. Since then, the band has consistently been focused on recording new albums and attempting newer
sounds.”
The Deutschtown Music Festival starts this week! Every day on the blog I am featuring a band from Pittsburgh who I discovered through the submission process and are performing this weekend
ATL&S is a genre bending band from Pittsburgh who’s debut self-titled album from last year has just spawned the band’s first music video for the track “As Beautiful As You.” I will bet my mortgage that you will hear the song live as the band play the 6th Annual Deutschtown Music Festival this upcoming Saturday (7/14) at 11pm at the Pittsburgh Winery Pop Up Stage at the former James Street Tavern Ballroom Upstairs. I want to thank Michael Lewandowski (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
This is probably going to blow your mind, however I never purchased an album until I was 25 years old. I started playing the guitar at 19 and had no real interest in music until then. After I started jamming, I became a huge Led Zeppelin fan which sparked my true love for music. As for the question, I purchased my friend Brian Foye’s album who sings on one of our original songs. He is a singer / songwriter out of Boston and has created many original tunes – the album title is Rough Drafts.
Your last album bought?
To go directly along with my first answer, that was the first and last!
Favorite album of all time?
I am a huge Led Zeppelin, Beatles, Guns & Roses, and Tom Petty fan. I would say (if this isn’t cheating) that my favorite all time album would be Tom Petty’s Greatest Hits. I’ve listened to that album easily 500 times throughout my life. It never gets old, the music is timeless.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I will definitely not be able to answer this, if I don’t like the first song I will immediately turn it off. Honestly, I listen to the same artists / songs pretty much daily. I like to listen to music that moves me emotionally, grows me personally, and makes my life better. The music I relate to most is the older generations. I think they spent more time on the art side than the money side. I don’t listen to music that doesn’t improve me personally.
First concert attended?
Bon Jovi a long, long time ago. It was the first time I’ve ever smoked anythingtoo – and yes it was only a cigar. However it was a fun experience. I went with my brother D, friend Dan, and a few other friends. It was my first time at the Pavilion, the weather was flawless, people were happy, it was a great scene.
Last concert?
Honestly I can’t remember. I think the last was a girl who dances around and plays a violin. The past few years I’ve been working a full time job, started a lighting company called Pittsburgh SociaLights, got my MBA at Pitt, recorded two albums / a bunch of music (and other) videos, and planned a wedding and gotmarried a month ago. I didn’t really have time to go out and explore other artists. Hoping that changes soon!
Favorite concert ever?
Tom Petty a few years back. Once again the perfect day out at the Pavilion, we had a bus take 30 of us and had an absolute blast. Definitely a concert to remember forever.
Least favorite concert?
My friend brought me to some rap concert at Rex Theater. I can’t even describe to you what I witnessed. It was the worst 45 minutes of my life – every song was terrible. Some guy that talks about tip toeing in his Jordan’s? Anyways, won’t be seeing that again.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I was born and raised in Pittsburgh. I’ve spent time traveling the world, and there is nothing like it. It’s home to me. For me, life really comes down to friends and family and they are all right here.
Thanks, Michael. Seriously? 25 years old? The first time you bought an album? AND that was the last time you bought one? Yes… MIND – BLOWN!
May you find peace tonight, Pittsburgh.
Arlo Aldo is Jessica Hoffman (Viola/Vocals) and David Manchester (Guitar/Vocals)
First song, Maoz Tzur translated:
Furiously they assailed us,
Second song, Oseh Shalom translated:
“Paper Lights have honed a large and cinematic soundscape within their music. Last year, the band traveled over 10,000 miles, visiting 24 states and 13 National Parks, while sampling sounds from nature and writing their latest full length album, Everything is Sound, which released on March 30, 2018.”
Paper Lights is an alternative duo from Atlanta, Georgia who are touring behind their fantastic latest album, Everything is Sound. They return to Pittsburgh this Friday (6/29) to my favorite DIY spot Snake Hill. If you have never been to this place, please go and support this band, this venue, this scene. I want to thank Josh Stewart (Multi-Instrumentalist) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Some of my favorite musical memories are in this city, and some of the most hospitable people I’ve encountered have been in Pittsburgh. Not to mention, the night we walked in on 30 person strong banjo rehearsal that served nachos and beer.
Thanks, Josh. That banjo rehearsal is a cool, regular, weekly happening at the Elks and just went down again this week!
Caleb Kopta is an indie rock musician from Cochranton, a small town 100 miles north of Pittsburgh who will be releasing his latest single entitled “Burning House” this Friday (5/25) as a followup to his debut EP Ghost. He will be celebrating at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls supporting electro-pop band Kahone Concept for his debut release show. I want to thank Caleb for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
It was so long ago, but had a Christian music background growing up, so I can only assume it was a Third Day album.
Your last album bought?
Dopamine by BØRNS is the last album I bought, since we live in a digital age, I’m more likely to go to Spotify to listen to new releases, in that case the last album I’ve really spent time listening to was Everything Now by Arcade Fire.
Favorite album of all time?
Battleborn by The Killers. Wilder Mind by Mumford & Sons is a close second.
I don’t listen to bad music, so I don’t have a good answer for this one.
I was 2 months old when I attended my first music festival. But the first concert I can remember being at was a Third Day concert when I was 4 or 5. I was very fortunate to grow up with a family who enjoyed taking me to concerts.
Last concert?
The last concert that I saw was Kahone Concept.
Favorite concert ever?
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing HAIM, U2, and The Killers recently. Each of those concerts were transforming, but if I had to choose one, it would probably be The Killers in Chicago, this past January.
Least favorite concert?
Again, I don’t listen to bad music, I just don’t have a good answer.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I love the views from the North Shore, and Mt. Washington both at night. What a beautiful sight of the city. Pittsburgh is really a pretty city at night. I enjoy seeing the lights.
Thanks, Caleb. I gotta ask, what festival were at at 2 months? Not that you remember anything but you folks surely would have told you which one?
This year marks the sixth year straight that music, food, and families take over the historic Deutschtown section of the Northside of Pittsburgh for two days of free fun.
A few new things this year are:
I am thrilled to announce we are renaming the former Main Stage at Middle and Foreland streets to be now referred to as the HughShows Stage! It has such a nice ring to it, doesn’t? The HughShows Stage will also run on Friday evening for the first time, as well as Saturday.
We are also adding the scenic Skyline Stage in Allegheny Commons Park by the Elks Lodge to our festival on Saturday.
We have also added some other new stages for this year (Nova Place, Threadbare Cider & Mead, and a few cool POP-Up Stages around Deutschtown) totaling over 50 stages over the course of two days.
As previously mentioned here, we are also resurrecting the former James St. Tavern building in cooperation with our friends from the Pittsburgh Winery to host bands on all three levels Friday night and Saturday all day and night!
Here is the entire band schedule for both Friday, July 13 and Saturday, July 14, 2018 with venue locations and set times.
Friday, July 13, 2018
HughShows Stage Middle and Foreland Outside – All Ages
Park Stage Allegheny Commons East Outside – All Ages
Threadbare Tent 1291 Spring Garden Ave Outside – All Ages
Threadbare Warehouse 1291 Spring Garden Ave All Ages
Threadbare Restaurant 1291 Spring Garden Ave All Ages
The Park House 403 East Ohio St
Arnold’s Tea 502 E. Ohio St. All Ages
Elks Lodge #339 400 Cedar Ave.
Allegheny City Brewery 507 Foreland Ave.
PGH Winery Satellite 709 East St.
Wigle Whiskey 1055 Spring Garden Ave. Outside – All Ages
YMR Club 631 Suismon St.
Penn Brew Restaurant 800 Vinial St. All Ages
Verdettos 814 Madison Ave.
Huszar 627 E North Ave
Max’s Allegheny Rathskeller 537 Suismon St
Nova Place Restaurant 100 South Commons All Ages
St. Mary’s Lyceum| 910 Chestnut St.
PGH Winery Satellite – Basement 422 Foreland St.
PGH Winery Satellite – Upstairs 422 Foreland St.
Saturday, July 14, 2018 HughShows Stage Middle St. and Foreland St. Outside – All Ages
Park Stage Allegheny Commons East Outside – All Ages
Skyline Stage Allegheny Commons Park Outside – All Ages
Nova Place 100 South Commons Outside – All Ages
Threadbare Tent 1291 Spring Garden Ave Outside – All Ages
Threadbare Eatery 1291 Spring Garden Ave All Ages
Threadbare Warehouse 1291 Spring Garden Ave All Ages
Wigle Whiskey 1055 Spring Garden Ave. Outside – All Ages
AIR presented by Wigle Whiskey
Huszar 627 E North Ave.
Max’s Allegheny Ratskeller 537 Suismon St.
Penn Brewery Biergarter 800 Vinial St. Outside – All Ages
Penn Brewery Terrace 800 Vinial St. Outside – All Ages
Penn Brewery Restaurant 800 Vinial St. All Ages
Elks Lodge #339 400 Cedar Ave.
Arnold’s Tea 502 E. Ohio St. All Ages
Annex 522 East St. All Ages
Allegheny City Brewing 507 Foreland Ave.
PGH Winery Satellite 709 East St.
Kaffeehaus 1022 Chestnut St. Outside – All Ages
Verdettos 814 Madison Ave.
YMR Club 631 Suismon St.
East St Beer 807 East St
The Blacksmith Studio 900 Middle St. All Ages
St. Marys Lyceum 910 Chestnut St.
Open Air Brass and Drums Roaming Artists at Large Times TBA Magnificent Street Entertainment M.S.E Timbeleza Colonel Eagleburger’s Highstepping Goodtime Band Run the Meat Youth Stage James St. and Suismon St.
PGH Winery Satellite – Upstairs
PGH Winery Satellite – Ground Floor 422 Foreland St.
PGH Winery Satellite – Basement 422 Foreland St
Schedule subject to change.