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Friday September 16, 2016
– Scott and Rosanna LIVE at Wigle Whiskey!
– Bayardstown Happy Hours: Paul Luc & Andre Costello
– Chet Vincent and the Big Bend + The Shiners @ The Oaks Theater
– Brinner, Thanks Dad, Wings For Armor
– The Jasons at The Fallout Shelter w/ The Scutches, Crisis in America, and F
– Absolution Key Album Release Show w Sound of Urchin & Bad Custer
– Goonland/Hedonism Bots/Horus Maze at Grille 565~
– Steeltown Horns w/ Anjroy and GloPhase at Spirit
– O’Hara Album Release w/ Ferdinand the Bull
– Dan Bubien CD Release with Clinton Clegg of the Commonheart
– The Clock Reads & Intrepid Travelers at Howlers
– Thomas Wendt Quartet
– Goodfoots at Hambone’s
– Rock N Roll in the southside!
– #OWB On The South Side!
– Ghost Bath, Numenorean, Frosthelm, and Slaves BC at Smiling Moose
– Steel City Ruins // Primer and Grayscale // +more
– Twisted Fate: Pittsburgh, PA!
– West Philadelphia Orchestra at Babyland
Saturday September 17, 2016
– The Elliotts at Narcisi Winery
– Ray Lanich Band LIVE at SouthSide Works
– The Story Changes / Old Game / Erik Pitluga
– Christopher Mark Jones & Camela Widad
– The Seeds: Pushin Too Hard w/ director Neil Norman and live music
– Special Reserve at Double Wide Grill
– Voodoo ☾ A Monthly Goth/Industrial Ritual ☽
– The Struggle Bus, at Howlers!
– Murder For Girls // Holy Rivals // Chupacabra
– Ladies Night at James Street Gastropub and Speakeasy!
– Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers
– Chris Trapper with Bea
– Fall Fest
– NO REASON TO LIVE CD RELEASE W/ ENEMYMIND AND MORE
– No Shoes Sound Series with Zach Rock of Nameless in August
– Halfway to Paddy’s Day
– Nieds Hotel Amphitheater Welcomes Bill Toms and Hard Rain
– Angry Gods / Moral Void / Thrown / Scrultch
– Boxford Apple Festival
– It All Flows
Sunday September 18, 2016
– Angelspit, Die Sektor, The Dead Room
– Downtown Brown w/ Super Fun Time Awesome Party Band & Only Flesh
– Justin Fabus – Set Me Free Tour 2016
– Tilley HAWK at Cruel Noise Records
“The energy shines through in their performances, where the combination of each distinct voice with the others creates a swirling web of sound and harmony. Paired with evocative and catchy lyrical phrases drawn from life experience and the American lexicon, Buffalo Rose’s songs are ones that you will find yourself singing along to before they come to an end.”
Buffalo Rose is a soulgrass quartet who are just starting out. They are currently working on their debut release and it won’t be hard to catch them out, whether at a show, open mic or busking all about around Pittsburgh. I want to thank the band’s two vocalists Mariko Reid and Lucy Clabby for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, ladies. That is a most unpopolur opinion on Radiohead, Lucy but I am in agreeance with you on it. I saw them open for R.E.M. in ’95 and was bored to tears, as I am with their albums.
“Grunge is still dead”
Holy Rivals is a Pittsburgh metal grunge band that recently released their debut self-titled EP. The band take their assault to the masses this Saturday (9/17) at Gooski’s as they join blog faves Murder for Girls and Chupacabra for some hard hitting action. I want to thank the rhythm section of Matt Langille (Drums) and Aaron Orr (Bass) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Both of us born and raised in Pittsburgh, have been making music together for about 7 years through various projects. Fire Safe Cigarettes was started after being unable to find reliable band mates, but wanting a way to make music that we were 100 percent happy with. We started experimenting with various effects, instruments, and recording techniques, and eventually we found a sound that we are both extremely happy with and are excited to expand on… .a smorgasbord of non fire safe cigarettes, booze, and dreams of socialism.”
Fire Safe Cigarettes is a brand spanking new local indie folk rock duo who take their cue from such diverse acts as The Libertines and Jefferson Airplane. They recently released their debut EP entitled Honey Overflow and can be seen playing out and about Pittsburgh, I want to thank George Gardner (Guitar/Mandolin/Backing Vocals) and Kevin Kiley (Bass/Banjo/Lead Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers draw freely from old-time, bluegrass, country, jazz, rockabilly and swing styles to create their tight, high-energy string band music. Well-crafted original songs with emotional depth, masterful picking, and resonant vocal harmonies combine to forge new territories and a fresh take on Appalachian Americana music. Band members Gary Antol, Libby Eddy, Joe Dep and Ed Croft hail from the mountains and river towns of southwestern Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio.”
The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers are a Pittsburgh based old-timey string band who’s latest release is the fantastic White Lightning Road. You can hear the band selections from it when they play the Deep Roots Mountain Revival at Marvin’s Mountaintop in Masontown, WV this weekend (Thursday and Friday, September 15 & 16). I want to thank Gary Antol (Guitar/Mandolin/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Gary. Ah, The Ryman. That is a bucket list venue for me to see a show for sure. I was actually outside the venue when I was ten years old but never made it inside.
“The experimentally minded Sol Persona project seems interested in reinvigorating music by foregrounding various constructions of subjecthood and the various rigors of the human condition. Sol Persona’s compositions are magnetic and ethereal; they’re often elaborate, mosaic-like compositions seemingly concerned with reconstructing love, beauty, and identity. I think his fusion of chaotic tenderness and green refuge will prove to be a daring game changer” – Paul Cunningham
Sol Persona is the moniker of Karter Schachner, a Pittsburgh based songwriter who’s avant-garde music mixes chamber pop and neo-classical to form a unique and ultimately gratifying listening experience. I want to thank Karter for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
It was either a Three Doors Down Live album or Elephunk by the Black Eyed Peas.
Your last album bought?
Kendrick Lamar To Pimp a Butterfly.
Favorite album of all time?
I feel like I have a different answer for this every time. This time I’m going to say Perfume Genius’ Put Ur Back N 2 It. I discovered PG In 2013 when he opened for Sigur Rós at a gorgeous outdoor amphitheater in Philly. I listened to this album every night for six months straight. PG presents a sadness and loneliness so deeply personal that it is spiritual. Mike Hadreas’ quivering voice and viscerally honest lyrics reflected my own feelings of detachment and emptiness, so the album was a cathartic and redemptive experience.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Most disappointing: Autre Ne Veux Age of Transparency. His 2013 album Anxiety is a near-perfect record and this new stuff is just messy.
First concert attended?
The first concert I willingly attended was Angels and Airwaves and Taking Back Sunday at Ye Old Chevrolet Amphitheater. Before that I had been to a few bluegrass / folk shows with my parents. It was very inspiring to me and fueled the fire to work harder on music.
Last concert?
Besides the Deutschtown Music Festival a few months back, JMSN and Tiffany Gouche.
Favorite concert ever?
FORM in Arcosanti, AZ. I attended in May 2015 and it’s a truly perfect festival. The location and the lineup was on point… Hundred Waters, How to Dress Well, Majical Clouds, Moses Sumney, The Antlers, Tokimonsta… just to name a few.
Least favorite concert?
Only because I was late and only got to see half of her set… tUnE-YaRdS a few years back. She is one of my musical heroes and I will never forgive myself for this sin.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Growing up about 30 min north of the city in a very rural town, Pittsburgh was this utopia of culture to me. It always felt like a city where cool things happened if a fairly acceptable amount of people decided it was a pretty okay idea. Which is basically what I did with my band These Three Words, who I performed with around the city throughout high school and early college. Now that I have lived here for a year and a half, I can say that although it may not be a “utopia of culture” it is definitely a great place for ideas to flourish and be presented in an intimate atmosphere.
Thanks, Karter. Your Perfume Genius discovery is my absolute favorite way to first hear a new artist I eventually love. When you are not expecting much from a performance and BAM! you get hit with it and your appreciate just grows from there is thrilling every time.
“The 11 songs featured on his pending debut, Strange Constellations, contain echoes of the hard won wit and wisdom of Loudon Wainwright, the guitar prowess of James Burton, and the tensile anger of a young Paul Westerberg. But crucially, Matheny’s is a new voice, marinated in tradition, but utterly idiosyncratic and entirely his own. For those fortunate several who have seen Matheny perform his indelible tunes live, there is no further need of proof. For those not yet in the know, see him at your next opportunity, and prepare to be floored.”
William Matheny is a singer-songwriter from nearby in West Virginia was just signed to my favorite label, Misra Records. His debut for the label entitled Strange Constellations arrives in February of 2017. A former member of the career spawning old faves of mine Southeast Engine, I want to thank William for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
It was a double-disc live CD by Emerson, Lake and Palmer. For reasons that I may never completely understand, I was super into prog-rock as a 10 year old.
Your last album bought?
I just pre-ordered Hiss Golden Messenger’s Heart Like a Levee. I tell anyone who will listen that I think HGM is the best thing going today.
Favorite album of all time?
Bruce Springsteen’s The Wild, The Innocent and The E-Street Shuffle. I bought it on cassette at a gas station during the summer before my senior year of high school. I grew up in a very small place about 30 miles south of Morgantown, WV. Morgantown is a pretty typical college town and was the nearest place that had a music scene with clubs, bands and at that time, a couple record stores. I drove there nearly every evening to go to band practice, play at an open mic or just hang out.
I’d start listening to “The E Street Shuffle” when I left my parents’ house, side two always started when I made it to the interstate and the last notes of “New York City Serenade” would end when I made it to the parking lot where I would leave my car. It’s sort of like Dark Side of the Moon but instead of aligning with The Wizard of Oz, this album syncs perfectly with a 16 year old me driving around in a 1993 canary yellow Pontiac Sunbird. Musically speaking, they already sound like the best band in the world while still sounding like a group that could be practicing in a basement down the street.
It isn’t my vote for “best album ever” or even “best Bruce Springsteen album,” but it’s certainly the record that I’ve listened to more than any other and has brought me the most amount of pure enjoyment. I’ve definitely bored many an unsuspecting afterparty by talking about it ad nauseam.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
The “most disappointing” album is Television’s Marquee Moon because it renders everything else inconsequential.
First concert attended?
Eric Clapton, Pittsburgh Civic Arena, August 1992. This was an 8th birthday present from my parents. EC wore a white tux and opened with “White Room.”
Last concert?
Not counting bands that we’ve played shows with recently, Bob Dylan and Mavis Staples in Canandaigua, NY. Mavis sounded amazing and Zimmy was doing his anti-Sinatra act. It was great.
Favorite concert ever?
The Evens at the Blue Moose Cafe, Morgantown, WV, May or June 2004. Incredibly inspiring on every level and I gave Ian MacKaye a hug he totally didn’t want.
Least favorite concert?
The Marshall Tucker Band, Mannington District Fair, Mannington, WV, August 2000. As I said earlier, I grew up in a very small town.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh’s great. I have a lot of friends there and my label’s here, so I’m a bit biased.
Thanks, Bill. Long time, man. Looking forward to the album. Let me know if you swing by Pittsbutgh for a show.
“Franny sometimes goes by her borderline name of Xera. She has been farming this summer and makes homegrown moon and star country road, rollin’ ,tumblin’ buzz-rock sing-a-longs & folk ballads. Franny incubated and inoculated these songs in her bone-cold love shack dreaming of her native southern air all winter long and when she stumbled out of the shack under the skies of Uptown,Soho Pittsburgh, PA (the paris of appl at cha’), and gathered some moon shiners and recorded some songs. and the faucet keeps running. Both on her own with an acoustic guitar or with a band of wild cards (members of Robin Vote,
Ghost Guts & Raul & the Lumber Jerks recorded & have played & play with her).”
Franny Moon is an Pittsburgh based cosmic country rock and roll band, led by songwriter Sarah Frances Kuhn (Guitar/Vocals). The band have a slew of singles up on over at their BandCamp page and you can see them play out live frequently around town. I want to thank Sarah for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Sarah. Pittsburgh is the best. It does seem like we live in a virtual enchanted forest at times.
“The project of Gina Favano with Sam Pace (Gangwish) and Aaron Lindberg (Lungs Face Feet) backing her up. Polyrhythms and semitones bring a non-Western feel to much of this release; Favano’s singing often rests between incantation and spiritual. The first several tracks are moody and unresolved, but they give way in the end to the more free-and-easy “Too Many Damn Sticks” and the exuberant “Grand Island.” Shades of David Byrne, only less reserved, or maybe art-pop minus most of the pop.” – Andy Mulkerin /
Pittsburgh City Paper Come Holy Spirit is a bombastic psyche folk trio from Pittsburgh who will leave you breathless and wanting much more after you see them kill any stage they perform on. I was lucky enough to catch them for the first time at Ladyfest Pittsburgh, and wow, did they bowl me over. Their sophomore full-length release Grand Island came out last Spring and do yourself a favor and try your best to see them live. I want to thank Gina Favano (Bass/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Dori Cameron is a singer-songwriter who is native to Pittsburgh, PA and now lives in Boston, MA. For years, her instrument was a pen, but she has finally fused her love for writing and singing into songwriting. Her carefully-crafted lyrics and strong voice often capture difficult, yet universal themes that any audience can relate to. Her expression of emotions such as guilt, longing, and hope are not just accepted, but embraced. She uses vivid imagery to tell stories and ask questions that we’ve all asked ourselves. Her songs create a space for conversation to those who are willing to express themselves as well.”
Dori Cameron is an Pittsburgh based (via Boston) singer-songwriter who is an emerging force in the scene using her talents and enthusiasm to foster an already strong and growing musical community. You can frequently catch her play out all over town and there are two chances within the next couple weeks. First on Wednesday November 2, she joins the bill at The Funhouse at Mr. Smalls for a prerelease show from Apres Pompeii. Two days later on Friday, November 4, she will be part of the Songwriters Circle CD Release at Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. I want to thank her for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Pittsburgh is everything to me, and my best memories involve music. Club Laga, seeing Lagwagon, Catch 22, Jonah Matranga, Boy Sets Fire… I even saw Flogging Molly play there before. Warped Tour when it was still at IC Light Amphitheater, then moved to Post-Gazette Pavilion… but more importantly, the independent music scene that has been such a remarkable haven for me. Here I am, a new singer-songwriter, and I have not had one bad encounter from anyone during an open mic or show in Pittsburgh in the past year I’ve been playing. Nothing but positive reinforcement from even the most experienced local musicians. The new Funhouse at Mr. Smalls hosts AcoustiCafe, which is my favorite place and time to play in the city. Tons of impromptu collaboration and memorable performances. I am super proud of the female talent too – this community of encouragement and strength in numbers was palpable when performing at Ladyfest Pittsburgh. If you couldn’t already tell, I’ll come out and say it – I am honored and humbled to share my music in the Steel City.
Thanks, Dori. I too am constantly amazed at the incredible kinship that musicians in this city have. It is such a special thing for me to be able to experience.
Saturday August 27, 2016
Sunday August 28, 2016
“Featuring tight vocal harmonies, richly melodic string lines, and the introspective songwriting of leader Sharon Mok, the group has received favorable press from its native Buffalo and beyond. Artvoice (Buffalo) writes, “Some people like to write songs while others tell stories. Vocalist/guitarist Sharon Mok tells her audience a story. Her voice floats beautifully above the acoustic sounds of her “chamber-folk” band only to be matched with the soothing sounds of cello and violin. Tiny Rhymes offers listeners tranquility and leisure and it’s clear they’re here to stay.”
Tiny Rhymes is a chamber folk band originally from Buffalo but recently relocated to Pittsburgh. After completing a Summer tour, bandleader Sharon Mok (Guitar/Vocals) is settling into her new city and I for one cannot wait for her to make her mark here. Get a sense of what we are in store for by checking out the lovely debut EP A Kinder History via Forest Park Recordings. I want to thank Sharon for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Sharon. I totally agree that when a performer puts it out there on stage, it is very difficult to criticize that but as you pointed out, when an artist isn’t giving it their all, whether drugs or alcohol are a factor or not, then I believe it is fair game.
Saturday August 20, 2016
Sunday August 21, 2016
The 2016 Rock All Night Tour takes over Lawrenceville this weekend and there is way more than enough music to satisfy any fan. Follow the link for the complete band/venue list and set times.
“Sounds like: Your senses feel. Questions. Your first kiss. Dreams. Possibility. The universe. The tiny moments. Nature. What you see when you close your eyes. Love. Filtered light. Fear. Feelings without words. The unknown. The mysteries of deep science. Hope. Connection. Time. Attraction. Meteor Showers. The death of a friend. The Deep. Space. Memory. Another life. Perspective.”
Ganemyde is the moniker for Pittsburgh producer Jarrod Leda who’s latest release is the Echoes Over Orange Mountain EP via Cyborg Recordings. Self-described as ‘melodic, reverb soaked sci-fi shoegaze,’ the music takes cues from Massive Attack, Orb, and Phoenix and the like. I want to thank Jarrod for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Jarrod. I have to admit, EDM is not a genre I am at all that familiar with and it is always cool to be able to check it out through producing these Q&As.
Flock of Walri is a Pittsburgh turbo-prog funk rock trio who will be participating in R.A.N.T. this weekend playing Spirit Lodge Downstairs on Saturday (8/13). I want to thank Mike Mast (Drums) for not only participating in this edition of First/Last, but being only one of two people out of a thousand who took the time to actually write down his answers to the Q&A!
Thanks, Mike. R.A.N.T. is going to be bananas! Let’s hope guitar Mike can keep his axe in one piece unlike the Paris fundraiser when he busted the neck moments before you went on. One of the biggest buzzkills I have seen on stage ever.
