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CHOIR is a noiserock quartet from Pittsburgh who have some demos out and play shows. The next one probably March 1st at The Shop so go. Derek (Throat) and Trevor (High) recently sat down with SIKES for the Start the Beat podcast. I want to thank them for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Trevor: Eh I don’t remember the first album I ever bought with my own money to be completely honest. However the first album I ever owned was actually Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park. It isn’t Arvo Part or anything but it’s a start.
Derek: The New York Dolls LP. I think I saw a VH1 behind the music or something in my early teens and thought they were the sleaziest thing I’d ever seen and immediately begged my mom to take me to the mall to buy it with money she probably gave me.
Your last album bought?
Trevor: I like most other twenty-somethings with no money or food just stream music online for the most part but the last physical album I bought was a cassette copy of Turn! Turn! Turn! by The Byrds for the van. I honestly prefer the later Byrds material but I couldn’t really turn it down.
Derek: A tape called “Quit Smoking Forever” by some guy who uses hypnotism to help people quit smoking, forever. I don’t smoke, but that tape is a real barn burner.
Favorite album of all time?
Trevor: I really don’t think about this kind of thing anymore as I get older but if I had to listen to an album every day for the rest of my life it would probably be And Don’t The Kids Just Love It by Television Personalities to be honest. The love I have for that album surpasses most recorded tones I have ever experienced. I wouldn’t even consider that my favorite album to be honest ‘cause I really don’t have one but I guess that would be a solid desert island mp3.
Derek: Trout Mask Replica. Probably forever. No other album has had such a profound effect on my life. Although
there is a YouTube version of the album playing all the songs at once, and that one is pretty good too.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Trevor: Most music is bad. Derek: “Das Da Way She Goes” by Uncle Harry’s Bar Band. Not hating on Harry and the guys. Just didn’t like their tape. I wish them all the best.
First concert attended?
Trevor: KISS with Powerman 5000. ‘Psycho Circus 3D’ tour 1998/99? KISS is still the most important band to me. Literally nothing about that band makes any sense. If you thought that Paul Stanley’s stage banter was ridiculous imagine him yelling “ALL RIGHT EVERYBOOOODY! TIME TO PUT ON YO 3D GLAAAAASES!”
Derek: Either Britney Spears at the Yuengling Pavilion or whatever it’s called, or Ministry and … Thrill Kill Kult. Both were a blast.
Last concert?
Trevor: Hopefully the last concert that I ever attend will be Ace Frehley covering Disraeli Gears in full ending with a 25 minute rendition of “Wild Thing” with Lita Ford, John 5 and Billy Corgan. He can throw a guitar pick at me or something and then I will fight a 55 year old man for it and I will win. In that situation you can throw my trash body in the garbage disposal. Derek: Jandek in thirty years.
Favorite concert ever?
Trevor: Derek and I saw Psychic TV in Pittsburgh a few years ago and they played like 3 Hawkwind covers and a 20 minute song where Genesis Breyer P-Orridge screamed “THANK YOOOOOOOU!” over and over again crying hysterically. It was the most uncomfortable thing I have experienced in a room full of people.
Derek: I saw Infest on acid so that was pretty funny. But favorite? Probably Pissed Jeans at some venue in East Liberty a few years ago. Matt Korvette ate a granola bar without a shirt on and it was really entertaining to watch. Their set was great too.
Least favorite concert?
Derek: I’m going to get sentimental here, but I’d have to say everyone who’s helped us get around when we had no transportation and almost nothing at all. Especially money. Obviously no one was obligated to help us, but they did anyway. There are a lot of great people in this city who support each other and we wouldn’t be where we are now without them. A close second is a store called Beer World we all used to go to. What a place.
Thanks, fellas. I have to agree with you, Trevor. I lean towards the ‘Dyrty’ Byrds later sound more than the early stuff.
“The Matchsellers is a bluegrass duo that began in the streets of former East Germany and now crisscrosses the US Interstate system year-round. Julie Bates is a classically trained violinist from Kansas City, Missouri, and Andrew Morris grew up playing electric blues guitar in the dive bars of Warsaw, Indiana.”
The Matchsellers is a Midwest old-timey bluegrass duo who are in the midst of their New Year Tour celebrating the 2016 release Songs We Made Up. Comprised by two musicians who hailed from different cities, Andrew Morris (Guitar/Vocals) and Julie Bates (Fiddle/Vocals) met while working in Germany. They hit Pittsburgh tomorrow (1/24) at Acoustic Music Works in Squirrel Hill and I want to thank Andrew for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Smash Mouth Astro Lounge. I think the lead singer of that band is Guy Fieri’s long lost cousin.
Your last album bought?
Balfa Brothers Play Traditional Cajun Music Vol. 1 & 2. I love the “Newport Waltz”. It has such a beautiful melody, and yet the lyrics are not much more than a brown-nosing advertisement for the Newport Folk Festival.
Favorite album of all time?
How can somebody expect me to answer this? I guess I’ll say the album that turned me onto acoustic bluegrass music and really changed the trajectory of my life was Sleep With One Eye Open by Chris Thile & Michael Daves. I unabashedly tried to rip-off what they were doing for a long time and failed at it.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Honestly, I was disappointed with Bob Dylan’s New Morning. Sure it’s got some good, even great moments like “The Man in Me” and “If Not For You.” And I could probably get over the fact that some of the songs are a bit annoying “Neeewwwwwwwwwww Morning” , “Day of the Locusts.” But the song “If Dogs Run Free” really ruined that album for me. I just don’t get it. Can’t wrap my mind around that song. Apparently, lots of people love that song and that album. But if I’m 100% honest with you, I was disappointed.
First concert attended?
Three Dog Night at the Center Lake Park in my hometown of Warsaw, Indiana. I remember it was my 5th or 6th birthday and I didn’t want to go. So my dad put a funnel in my mouth and poured Budweiser down my throat and I wound up having a really good time. It’s amazing how beer can change your mind.
Last concert?
Goldmine Pickers in Goshen, Indiana. They were THE acoustic band in Northern Indiana for a time, but now are pretty much split up. Jay currently plays with the Steel Wheels. Sean and Adam are in a great Irish group called Soltre. Luke teaches at the folk school in St Louis. Though not all of the original members made it to play the concert, enough were there to make it a really good time. I really admire and look up to those guys.
Favorite concert ever?
Another tough question. A great concert that is sticking out in my mind right now was Jonathan Richman at The Artmosphere in Lafayette, LA. In high school my friend Jill burned me the Modern Lovers CD because she said my voiced reminded her of Jonathan Richman. He exudes so much joy on stage, it’s amazing. It was just him, his nylon acoustic guitar and this drummer Tommy Larkins, who was groovy as hell. The space was really small so we were right next to him. Everyone was dancing. My homeboy Dave Riot was running the board, so the sound was perfect. Icing on the cake.
Least favorite concert?
I played trumpet in high school. One Veteran’s Day or Memorial Day, the band played a concert somewhere at some cemetery for all of these old people and veterans. Everyone in the audience was wearing a baseball cap. At least that’s how I remember it. Anyway, at one point in the concert, a flag was being raised or lowered or folded or saluted or something, and that was my cue to stand up and play “Taps” alone. Solo. A capella trumpet… I botched it really bad. It sounded like a goose being drowned. And it smelled even worse, because I did everything short of pooping myself. I lost every friend I ever had that day. That was my least favorite concert.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I was a pretty good kid in school and never got into trouble until I had Mr. Winter in 4th grade. He loved the Steelers and had several Steelers’ flags around, so I guess he was from Pittsburgh. Anyhow, once he made me sit in the hall and miss recess because I wrote “poop” on the chalkboard. The man didn’t have a sense of humor. I don’t think I ever saw him smile. We hated each other. I think on the last day of school I yelled, “Pittsburgh Sucks” while storming out of class and never saw Mr. Winter again. But other than that guy, Pittsburgh seems like a pretty cool place. You put french fries on your sandwiches, right? How can a city that decided to put french fries on a sandwich create a 4th grade teacher who couldn’t smile? Maybe he was just upset there was no Primanti Brothers in Warsaw, Indiana.
Thanks, Andrew. Not for nothing but fecal matter seems to play a defining matter in your adolescent years…
“We changed our name from The Running Men to The Lone Pines. This is because when we named ourselves The Running Men, we were in a bit of a time crunch to come up with a name. We think The Lone Pines sounds cooler.”
The Lone Pines is a folk rock trio from Pittsburgh who released a live EP last week entitled For These Reasons. You can catch them playing out all around town this upcoming year and I want to thank Anthony Lupinacci (Drums/Percussion/Harmonica), Josh Chamberlain (Guitar/Harmonica/Vocals), and Ricky Lagnese (Bass/Backing Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Tony Lupinacci: I was given a Buddy Rich album, I believe it was No Funny Hats by my father when I was 6 or 7. But I think the first album I ever bought with my own money was a compilation of Howlin’ Wolf’s best hits. My family had a really big Jazz and Blues thing going on at the time.
Your last album bought?
Josh Chamberlain: I recently bought two albums on the same day. One was Give It Back To You by The Record Company. I saw them live this summer, and they were badass. I’m surprised it took me so long to actually buy a record of my own, actually. I also bought Hello, I’m Johnny Cash. There are some gems on that record; “Sing a Travellin’ Song,” “The Devil to Pay,” and “Jesus Was a Carpenter” are all great. Found it at Jerry’s.
Favorite album of all time?
Ricky Lagnese: Axis: Bold as Love is definitely my favorite album of all time. As a guitarist this album is loaded with fantastic songs and the other nice thing is that there isn’t a single filler song. I wish I could have been around for the live versions of these songs because you can feel the energy even through the album audio.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Ricky: Even though this isn’t an album, I think that “Love on the Weekend” was fairly disappointing considering that John Mayer is known for his guitar playing. I found that this was upsetting to see him move away from his guitar prowess.
First concert attended?
Tony: The first concert I can remember was the Doobie Brothers when they came to Pennsylvania. I think I was 6 or 7. It was outdoors. I remember slapping my thighs and dancing on the picnic blanket with my mom and little sister. My little sister asked what Doobie meant and got a pretty long-winded explanation about modern law from my Father.
Last concert?
Josh: Joe Jarski, Vit Debacco, Morgan Erina, and us last week. Last one I went to and didn’t play at though was Jim Donovan and the Sun King Warriors. It’s always fun to see them because of the crazy percussion stuff they do in their hows. I think Jim Donovan did some throat singing or overtone singing too. That’s the technique that the Tibetan Monks do where they hit a note, but you can hear the fifth harmonic above the note too because they sing it a certain way. So essentially, they’re singing two (or even more) notes at once, and it’s really cool. I’ve been trying to do it ever since I heard Jim do it, but I haven’t had the same success. YouTube it if you don’t know what I’m talking about. You won’t regret it.
Favorite concert ever?
Tony: Probably a tie between Tame Impala and Alt-J. They both still put on an incredible live show with tons of passion and energy. Josh: Mumford and Sons at Firefly. They had some of the guys from their Johannesburg EP collaboration, and the energy on stage was at a spiritual level. That EP came out the weekend of Firefly too, so a lot of that music was completely new to me. At one point during the show, there were 9 or 10 people on stage, and that was incredible. Bought the EP on vinyl as soon as I got home.
Least favorite concert?
Josh: My least favorite concert was a show that I was supposed to go to, but wasn’t able to. My buddy and I were going to go see a house show on New Year’s Eve, and this band called Jack Swing was playing, and they’re really cool. But my buddy got really sick beforehand, so I just ended up giving him Pepto Bismol and ginger ale while we watched the lackluster New Year performances on TV.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Tony: I just recently moved to Pittsburgh for college, although I have been coming here my whole life because this is where my family hails from. I’ve always loved this city because I think it has been through incredible hardship (since the closing of the mills), yet is currently as thriving and full of life as ever. I believe Pittsburgh is a truly blue collar, hard-working city. There’s a lot of pride here and that makes me feel lucky to be a part of it.
Thanks, fellas. I have to say, Josh. I share your enthusiasm for Jim Donovan and his band. Such a great local album from last year.
“The story of two old friends fighting in a strip-mall parking lot.”
Ancient History is an indie fuzz rock band from Pittsburgh who are dropping their sophomore release entitled Good Friend Electrical on Saturday night with a banging lineup featuring fellow Wild Kindness labelmates at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls. with the first 150 through the door getting a complimentary copy. Much thanks to Donald Ducote (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Donald. Being the GM of Wild Kindness Records, I am betting your last local show was probably yesterday.
“String Machine is the solo project of musician David Beck, a Pittsburgh area native whose neo-folk music can be described as eclectic, philosophical, experimental, sincere, and diverse in texture and emotion. String Machine’s debut album Threads from the Youth Fossil is a mosaic of sonic textures and poetic imagery, with lyrics drenched in the visceral wisdom of lost youth.”
String Machine is the moniker of experimental folk musician David Beck who just released his debut Threads from the Youth Fossil which is now available to buy in physical form which comes with free shipping and will include “some sort of interesting little thing.” BONUS! I want to thank David for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, David. Interesting you listed Slanted and Enchanted. I am just starting to get into Pavement and from these fresh ears, S&E is the most… ‘raw’ of their albums? I would like to hear more of your take on why it doesn’t float your boat.
“guitar / bass / drums / dreams”
Honey is an Pittsburgh based rock trio who are steadily gaining a following based on their early releases and energetic live shows. discover yourself what the buzz is when they host thier annual Holiday blowout lovingly called ‘A Crustmas Miracle‘ this Friday at Brillobox with newcomers Jiant Eagle and Good Sport.
I want to thank Joe Praksti (Guitar/Vocals), Pat O’Toole (Bass), and Evan Meindl (Drums) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Joe Praksti: A terrific twofer from my favorite record store in my youth, Monroeville’s Target. Went in to buy American Idiot by Green Day and nabbed Demon Days by Gorillaz based on cover alone in one fell swoop. 2005 never looked so good.
Pat O’Toole: I think it was Make Believe by Weezer. Have to start somewhere. Evan Meindl: I actually believe it was Off the Deep End by ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic.
Joe: I’ve been doing some Christmas shopping and got an unopened copy of Utopia’s self-titled for a friend – highly, highly, highly recommend “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now” for the uninitiated. But for myself I recently purchased Wu-Tang Forever by, y’know, Wu-Tang Clan. Picked it up at this thrift store in Boston called Urban Renewals for 99 cents. Still haven’t gotten the chance to spin it, but it is apparently an enhanced CD that features an interactive tour through the “Wu Mansion” when inserted into any CD-ROM system! My disc drive is kaput though, unfortunately, so if any good Samaritan out there wants to spend an afternoon with me touring RZA’s movie collection and the rest of the Wu Cru’s closets, hit me up!
Pat: Last one was Speed of Sound by Wings. “Silly Love Songs” is my JAM!
Evan: The conformist that I am, I have become an online streaming advocate through Spotify. Sadly, I don’t remember the last physical record I bought. I’m a bad person.
Favorite album of all time?
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Joe: Me. I Am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse by none other than the Chanteuse herself, Mimi. You know, with a title that good, you really got to deliver, and unfortunately she came off way short of the mark. Losing another golden standard to becoming another cog in the industry machine, trying to adapt with the times. A tear comes to mind. At least it wasn’t as bad as Rebel Heart by Madonna though. That album is truly trash.
Thanks, fellas. This was one of my most enjoyable reads on the blog. Thanks for the picks and the ‘flourishes.’
“Eric Gadola, also known by his stage name “Crazy Eric” formed the grassroots of Red Room Effect in the summer of 2013. Working as a golf pro by day and struggling singer/songwriter by night, Gadola approached producer/drummer, Paul Jay with songs he had been writing with hopes of forming a band. Impressed by his songwriting abilities, Paul Jay and Eric began to mold the the majority of songs that would later appear on the “Frame of Mind EP.” Hendrix, Clapton, Jack White, The Black Keys, the RHCP, Nirvana, Prince, Rick James, & Outcast have played a significant role in Gadola’s, songwriting, playing style, and vocal delivery.”
Red Room Effect is an funk rock band from Pittsburgh who today dropped the official video for their single “Sirens” which is also available on iTunes. Much thanks to songwriter Eric Gadola (Guitar/Harmonica/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Elvis Presley The Number One Hits – I stole it from my uncle when I was 5. I would play “Hounddog,” strumming on a broom in my grandmas living room in my tighty whities .
Your last album bought?
The Getaway Red Hot Chili Peppers – We have been blending rock and hip hop and the Chili Peppers are a big influence of ours… Danger Mouse who produced this record is the best in the business right now. I love referencing this album to our material when arranging and mixing. I absolutely love the record. Reminds me of a classic Chili’s record with some modern flare.
Favorite album of all time?
The Jimi Hendrix Experience Axis: Bold As Love – “Little Wing” changed my life as a blues guitarist. I locked myself in my college dorm freshman year for a week and learned the guitar part with little to no music or guitar experience. That helped me progress as a player immensely learning a guitar part that complex early on. I am finally starting to do the song some justice after 10 years of practice….
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Guns N Roses Chinese Democracy – I was a huge GNR fan as a kid, I always thought it wouldn’t be the same without Slash, man i was right…. For an album that was 5 years in the making with that kind of budget. I couldn’t pick a song I liked, major disappointment.
First concert attended?
Rusted Root at some park in Pittsburgh in the mid 90’s before they blew up. My mom had there CD! She has a lot to do with my musical taste.
Last concert?
Stick Figure and the Movement at the Rex Theater. My gf has been getting me into reggae more! I’m not complaining.
Favorite concert ever?
Lollapalooza 2012 Chicago, Illinois: 3 of my hero’s headlined: Jack White, The Black Keys, & RHCP. It rained and we got muddy as ever, and my buddy Chris freaked out and disappeared. We found him back at his uncle’s barbecue stand passed out with a BBQ sauce mustache.
Least favorite concert?
2009 Wiz Khalifa at The Mezzanine in State College, PA. It was finals week at school, and this up-and-coming rapper was slated to play at an intimate club in downtown State College. Doors were at 9, which is pretty late… it also was snowing pretty heavily. Long story short, there was no opener, he never arrived until 1 am, and played a 15 minute set before the club closed for the night… Let’s just say I didn’t do to stellar on my final the next day…
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Has to be the local music festivals. It is so fun playing them, the support from the community is great. It’s pretty special when you don’t have to leave your back yard to play 4 to 5 legitimate festivals each summer, pretty amazing. Deutschtown Music Festival has to be one of our faves over the past year! Thanks Hugh!!!
Thanks, Eric. Deutschtown is always crazy and always fun. Believe it not, going to start planning 2017 soon.
“as a singer/songwriter from pittsburgh, i am a product of my influences. i was raised on zeppelin, the doors, and bowie, so i have just taken my upbringing and turned it into my own music, integrating other influences as i go along.”
J.D. Rau is a Pittsburgh based songwriter who will release his debut album digitally with a celebration at Howler’s this Sunday (11/13). Joining him will be local rock stars Blue Clutch. Much thanks to Johnny Danger himself for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Jack. It’s always exciting when someone releases a debut in Pittsburgh! Have fun at the show, man. Also, you might be the first musician on the blog to name their very first album as one of their faves.
“Racing Heart makes music that is both complex and catchy, with lyrics that are not afraid of taking on bigger issues in a personal way. Helped by some of the best and most noteworthy musicians from both Norway and the US, such as Jenny Hval, Hanne Hukkelberg and previously members of The War on Drugs, St. Vincent and Sufjan Steven’s band, these songs aim to mean something to you.”
Racing Heart is the moniker for Oslo, Norway based synth-folk popster Mathias H. Tjønn, who recently released their sophomore album What Comes After via Misra Records. The band will be celebrating the album release in Pittsburgh this Saturday (11/12) with a show at Brillobox on a sweet bill with blog faves Andre Costello and the Cool Minors and William Forrest. I want to thank Mathias for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first record I remember saving up money for and asking my mom to take me to the store to pick up, was The John Lennon Collection on CD.
I must’ve been nine or ten years old, already had the red and blue Beatles compilations albums on cassette given to me for Christmas the year before and desperately needed more Lennon to soothe that fix…
Your last album bought?
Went on a little Bandcamp-splurge last week and bought the latest Junior Boys record Big Black Coat together with Jessy Lanza’s Oh No, produced by Jeremy Greenspan who makes up one half of Junior Boys. I’ve always l loved their crisp, creative, Canadian electronica.
Favorite album of all time?
Astral Weeks by Van Morrison, hands down. So much sadness, frailty and beauty on that one.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
A recent dime store vinyl-purchase was Elizabeth Barraclough’s Hi from 1979.
Produced by Willie Mitchell and recorded at legendary Hi Studios in Memphis with basically all of Al Green’s extended musical family, I hoped it would be solid soul gold. Not so much.
First concert attended?
One of the first must’ve been going to see the Nutcracker ballet by Tchaikovsky; maybe I was six years old or so? I remember thinking it lasted for ever, but that all the dancers doing their thing onstage was weirdly interesting.
Last concert?
Susanne Sundfør here in Oslo this past Saturday. It was MASSIVE. The venue has a 9000 people-capacity and normally I’m not too big on huge stadium concerts, but I had a couple of friends in the band and Susanne always puts on a good show.
Favorite concert ever?
Recently thought about this, actually. Mercury Rev came through Oslo in ’98 on tour supporting Deserter’s Songs and it completely floored me. They’d recreated the entire album, down to the dude playing musical saw on “Holes”.
Least favorite concert?
The Doors (!) sometime in the early 2000’s. Blame it on my youth.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I came through Steel-town for the first time a year ago or so, to sign with Misra Records and meet esteemed head-honcho Jeff Betten in person. My first evening was spent at The Oyster House on Market Square, getting the local low-down from the bartender. Awesome dude, awesome place. When I’m playing The Brillobox November 12th later this year I plan on doing some serious record shopping around town. Recommendations on where to go are welcomed!
Thanks, Mathias. As for record stores, I am sure Mr. Betten will be more than happy to help you out but I would suggest at least one stop at Eide’s Entertainment.
”A talent-packed trio whose musical compatibility and genuine enjoyment of what they do is obvious to everyone who watches them. Their blues rock sound is equal parts powerful and heartfelt, energetic and nuanced, straightforward and skillful.”
– Melanie Stangl, Sound Scene Express Grandadchilds are a Pittsburgh blues rock power trio who are recent additions to the ever burgeoning music scene in town. With the release of their smoking debut single Jabberwocky Blues, they are quickly becoming a staple with the ‘you have to see this band’ tag frequently tossed around when discussing them. Witness for yourself the buzz when the band plays the Easy Street Live Music PGH Launch Party this Friday (11/4) at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls along with Cisco Kid and Spencer Allen Patrick. I want to thank John Rushlander (Guitar/Vocals), Tyler McLaughlin (Bass), and Evan Pearson (Drums) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
John Rushlander: What Were Once Habits Are Now Vices The Doobie Brothers.
Tyler McLaughlin: Baptism Lenny Kravitz. Evan Pearson: Highway to Hell AC/DC.
Your last album bought?
John: Voodoo Soup Jimi Hendrix. Tyler: Marcus King Band. Evan: Greatest Hits Jefferson Airplane
Favorite album of all time?
John: Tres Hombres ZZ Top. Tyler: Idlewild South Allman Brothers Band. Evan: Houses of the Holy Led Zeppelin.
First concert attended?
John: Dave Matthews Band Tyler: Whole Wheat Bread. Evan: N’SYNC.
Last concert?
All: Gary Clark Jr.
Favorite concert ever?
John: John Cleary & the Monster Gentlemen at Chickie Wah Wah. Tyler: The Peach Festival, 2014. Evan: Radiohead. Bonnaroo, 2012.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
John: Excellent music scene with so much potential to grow. People in Pittsburgh are real. Tyler: One of the greatest American cities. The land we stand on is sacred… It is the dust and blood of our predecessors. Pittsburgh provides great freedom, holds an intimate and absorbing respect for life, and some of the strongest principles of honesty, generosity, and authenticity I’ve found. Evan: Really cool scene with an absurd amount of awesome music right now. The venues and promoters have been great too. I believe that it only can get better from here too.
Thanks, fellas. This scene (and city) is certainly a poppin’!
“This new record from Bikini Islands is one that makes you want to, almost NEED to, listen to, over and over again. It combines the pop sensibilities of the Beatles, and the Buzzcocks, with the drive and emotion of todays more purposeful music scene. Each song takes you somewhere musically and lyrically and sonically. Kyle Wackers’ vocals lead the way, the band is super tight, and at the same time they are super relaxed in how they play. There is a “bikini sound” here if you will, a sound that identifies them, and makes them quite unique. The guitars here on this album of well-crafted songs sound clean, then dirty, and then simply smart. The guitars weave a web of pop wizardry, that makes you drop whatever you’re doing, and join in on your personal Fender Air. Quite an impressive offering from this quartet, one CD for me that seems to never get filed away, just played and played.
Look for them playing live, as they are well worth catching on a stage too! Own this now folks.” – Bill Miller, President of Crafton Cassette Club Bikini Islands is an indie rock band from Pittsburgh who are making a splash around town, picking up devoted fans everywhere they play. They have a brand new self-titled debut and expect big things from these guys. I want to thank songwriter Kyle Wacker (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
wwoman is a brand new lo-fi psych pop outfit from Pittsburgh songwriter Greg Smee who is dropping a 10 track debut release this week in the form of cassettes and CDs. I want to thank Greg for taking the time to participating in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I got a two-banger of Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, and Dookie.
I don’t think I even had a CD player yet but I still stand by my purchases.
Your last album bought?
I bought the new Mild High Club album a few weeks ago. The dude who is in creative control over there, Alex, is someone I look to for arrangement ideas.
The left turn they took is still settling in on me, but I do enjoy this one for sure.
Favorite album of all time?
It’s got to be some Beatles stuff, though I’m not a hands-down type of guy. I’ve been only listening to Life of Pablo for like a month now, if that says anything.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Putting me on the spot here.
First concert attended?
Dropkick Murphys, woah.
Last concert?
I don’t get out much.
Favorite concert ever?
One that comes to mind is Foxygen–they are super high energy in a live setting.
They can even transfer spare energy successfully on a weeknight in Pittsburgh.
Least favorite concert?
We saw Cocorosie a couple years ago, who I admittedly never followed, so maybe I was off to a bad start. They had technical issues on stage, which was fine, but they were like castigating the sound guy and ended up leaving the stage. It was a mess.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
It’s great to see the city growing like it is, in a somewhat responsible manner. We do need to make sure we are nurturing the right auras.
Thanks, Greg. Those are two pretty un-embarrassing first albums you picked up there. Usually it’s something like Backstreet Boys but they are solid, man.
“Unmistakably Nordic in flavor, Sofia Talvik somehow still conforms to American interpretations of her own original music, a North Sea siren blending sparkle and melancholy, creating a special niche of folk music that has been described as neo-folk.“
Sofia Talvik is a Swedish folk/Americana artist hailing from Gothenburg currently touring behind her latest release Big Sky Country which brings her back to Pittsburgh Winery this Friday (10/21) with support from local singer-songwriter Jesse Denaro. I want to thank Sofia for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Based in New England, Ian has toured throughout the United States. Ian has independently released four albums of original material and has become known for his storytelling and skillful use of language. In their review of his latest album, No Time To Be Tender [2013], Performer Magazine called Ian “a polished songsmith who is high atop a field of great artists breaking through to festival and folk concerts throughout the States.”
Ian Fitzgerald is a folk singer-songwriter from Providence, RI who is currently touring to promote his soon to be released fifth LP, You Won’t Even Know I’m Gone. He returns to Pittsburgh on Tuesday (11/18) for an all-ages BYOB show at Acoustic Music Works in Squirrel Hill on a stacked bill with Sedgewick, Dylan Golden Aycock, and Lake Mary. I want to thank Ian for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The Beatles’ Live at the BBC. It was released in 1994, at the very moment that I was given my first CD player and that I was becoming a Beatles fanatic.
Your last album bought?
The Day We Lost the War by Pittsburgh native Zach Schmidt, and I’d recommend that everyone else follow suit.
Favorite album of all time?
I think Highway 61 Revisited is the album I return to most often. I realize that’s not a very unique choice, but it’s an honest one.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I’m pretty disappointed in my own first couple of albums. I learned a lot from making them, but I wish I’d done a better job at the time.
First concert attended?
The Wallflowers in July of 1997. They were supposed to have opened the show, but Counting Crows cancelled for some reason, which was just fine with me.
Last concert?
A send-off show for my friend Dylan Sevey: he’s making the move from Rhode Island to Nashville to play drums full-time for Ron Gallo, so he had one final Rhode Island show featuring his friends The Quahogs; his own band, Dylan Sevey & he Gentlemen; and the band he’s drummed in for the past four years, Smith&Weeden, which is also the band that I worked with on half of my new record.
Favorite concert ever?
Tough to pick a favorite concert; there have been a lot of them. One that stands out on the shear strength of its lineup is a show I went to in Saratoga Springs, NY in 2008. In one afternoon and evening, the show included (in this order, I believe): Raul Malo, Gillian Welch, Conor Oberst, Steve Earle, The Swell Season, Levon Helm, and Bob Dylan.
Least favorite concert?
A friend took me to see of Montreal once. It just wasn’t my scene.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Every time I’ve been to Pittsburgh, a different person promises/threatens to bring me to Primanti Brothers, but it still hasn’t happened. I have met a lot of great people in Pittsburgh, though, and I’ve enjoyed each time I’ve played there. I’m sure people there know this already, but Kayla Schureman is a Pittsburgh singing-songwriting treasure; I’m looking forward to hearing the new record she’s been working on.
Thanks, Ian. As I warn every visiting musician who contemplates hitting up Primanti Brothers, make sure you have a belly full of beer before diving in… just saying.
Bitter Whiskers is a folk trio from Pittsburgh who’s sound incorporates not one but two lead accordions for a unique acoustic based dream pop. The band play a special event this Saturday (10/15) for the Friends of CLP Lawrenceville Art Auction. I want to thank Emily Fear (Accordion/Vocals), James Todd (Guitar), and Tessa Barber (Accordion/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, all. I have to agree with you, James. I have lived in Pittsburgh for almost 50 years and I feel the same way as you almost every time I step outside.li
“Tim Browning and the Widowmakers hail from the deep dark hills of Appalachia. Fusing together the dark folk/country roots of Johnny Cash with the harmonised guitar-lines of Gorham and Robertson (Thin Lizzy), they weave tales of back alley justice and crimes of passion in a world that has moved on.”
Tim Browning & the Widowmakers are a folk rock Americana band from Logan, WV. The band is self described as “a little bit Country, and a whole lot of Rock & Roll,” which is very evident on the band’s recent debut Bad Intentions. I want to thank Tim (Guitars/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The Beach Boy’s All Summer Long on cassette. I had a conservative upbringing but my parents allowed me to listen things they were already familiar with and deemed suitable. I was a big fan of the movie “Flight of the Navigator” that came in 1986 that featured “IGet Around.”
Your last album bought?
I just picked up Canadian artist Megan Nash’s Song Harvest Volume One, which was recommended to me by another great Canadian artist Colter Wall and his manager Mary Sparr. I’ve had the good fortune of crossing paths with them twice in recent months and Colter’s Imaginary Appalachia, has been heavy in my rotation so I took the bait. “I’m Only Somebody,” is my personal favorite from Megan.
Favorite album of all time?
I don’t know that calling it my favorite would suffice. I would call it the most important. My Grandfather on my Mother’s side had a cassette of Hank Williams & His Drifting Cowboys’ Moanin’ the Blues. That album molded so much of who I am and it continues to be a staple for me now 32 years later. I don’t think you can find a part of life that isn’t represented on it. “Long Gone Lonesome Blues,” is engrained in my DNA.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
The last time I remember being thoroughly invested in an artist to the point of truly anticipating their next release was Andy Stochansky’s 2005 record 100. I had fallen in love with his album Five Star Motel, in 2002 and knew every single lyric and note. He hasn’t released a full-length since so maybe I wasn’t alone in my disappointment.
First concert attended?
I’ve never been much of a concert goer. That seems to shock folks when it comes up but it wasn’t something my family participated in growing up. Money was tight and my parents grip was even tighter so independent and local music was where I got my fix. The most memorable concert I have seen was Vigilantes of Love in 2001. Bill Mallonee is one of my songwriting heroes so that’s the first one that really mattered. They were playing the songs from Audible Sigh, which was produced by Buddy Miller and featured Emmylou Harris. They were just at the top of their game.
Last concert?
Toad the Wet Sprocket and Counting Crows in 2014. Dulcinea, and August & Everything After, are two of the most important albums of my teenage years so that was a bucket list item. Since then I have invested all my time and money in making music. If I attend a show nowadays odds are I’ll be on stage at some point.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’ve enjoyed Pittsburgh any time I have had the opportunity to visit. Hopefully my band the Widowmakers and I can make it up in support of our new album Bad Intentions.
Thanks, Tim. Would love to see you and the band head into Pittsburgh for a show soon. Let me know when and if you do.
“Northern Gold hopes to effectually tell the stories that inspired this soulful EP on every stage they play with a sensational show. The band began with just a few simple quiet tunes. And now from what once was a voice and an acoustic guitar in a living room room, the act has become a full on rock experience, performed by a soulful quintet sure to please an audience with their eclectic sound.”
Northern Gold is a Pittsburgh based acoustic rock band fronted by singer-songwriter Jake Anderkovitch (Guitar/Vocals). Their debut The Heart was Heavy came out last year and as they work on new music, join me in thanking Jake in participating in this edition of First/Last.
“KINGSIZED is the band’s first full-length release in seven years, but it contains the same indie pop/rock dynamic for which they are known. Special guests on the album include, R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, who appears on the first single, “Lady Liberty”. Other guests include Scott McCaughey (R.E.M., The Minus 5), Eric Allen of The Apples In Stereo, Rebecca Cole of The Minders and Wild Flag, Jason Garner of Polyphonic Spree and Andy Shernoff of The Dictators.”
Dressy Bessy is an an indie pop rock band from Denver, CO who are currently touring behind their latest release, KINGSIZED via Yep Roc Records. They return to Pittsburgh Thursday night (9/29) with local support from blog faves The Garment District opening. I want to thank songwriter Tammy Ealom (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“The Honeyriders are *of* Pittsburgh, yes, but where are they from? Best we can tell, three Americans, a Mexican and a Brit all met in the witness protection program, and this marvelous musical endeavor (whose influences run the table from reggae and ska to twangy pop to good ol’ gravelly rock with some bebop thrown in for good measure) is their plan for ‘hiding in plain sight’. Go see them before their case officer finds out what they’re doing.”
Honeyriders are a Pittsburgh based rock band who’s debut album Tautology can be described as a throwback to 80’s pop. The band plays out often around town and while they continue to work on new music, I want to thank songwriter Mark Fern (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Mark. I am definitely more of an album guy. I remember buying singles on 45 when I was a kid and never really getting into albums until much later. Now with digital formats, I can see the interest in single songs gaining favor but I will always prefer entire albums to discover those buried gems.