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Boy Wonders is the moniker of lo-fi indie popster Derek January. He just released a sweet three song self-titled EP which you can snag over at BandCamp. I want to thank Derek for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Derek. Love the EP. I have to say, you seem very normal. I guess that ‘Devin Moses Effect’ hasn’t really kicked in yet?
“The Banner Days is an old saying that means a time to remember and celebrate. When we started writing together, we immediately clicked. As these songs have taken shape one thing has become clear: This project, this catalog of songs and this experience are going to be something special.”
The Banner Days is a soulful folk duo from Seattle, WA who stop in Pittsburgh for the first time on this upcoming Monday evening (3/14) at one of my favorite places to see a show, the extremely hospitable Snake Hill. Touring behind their fantastic record Hand Me a Hymnal, the two are making their Pittsburgh live debut. I want to thank Beth Whitney (Banjo/Vocals) and Bradford Loomis (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Beth and Bradford. So glad you are making a stop in Pittsburgh. The folks at Snake Hill are the best!
“Luke lives in Phoenix. Paul lives in Minneapolis. We make music together with the help of the internet.”
Loop Line is an alternative rock duo who just released their latest catchy as hell EP called Wakes. Using the power of the web to produce the music as the two members live in different cities, the result is a seamless blend of power pop and anthemic rock. I want to thank Paul Winkels and Luke Slisz for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, fellas. I feel the obvious Weezer love in your music and was wondering if you had any favorable things to say about their latter post-Blue/Pinkerton releases as it is almost a given that musicians dislike those albums?
“There’s an old-ages discolouring to the music of Old Sea Brigade that belies the tender years of its creator, appearing sepia-drenched and sleight of frame as his country-esque ballads quietly breathe life in to otherwise listless January days. The new, self-titled, EP is proof of this; a quiet set of songs performed with heart-worn luster that makes for a five-track journey that instantly feels like, albeit solemn, escapism.”
– Tom Johnson Old Sea Brigade is an indie folk outfit from songwriter Ben Cramer who’s excellent self-titled EP is out now which you can go grab at Amazon or iTunes. The band is ironically in the area playing a couple shows in Ohio as I write and post this and hopefully next tour we can score a gig in Pittsburgh. In the meantime, I would like to thank Ben (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
I’m pretty sure the first album I ever personally bought was Dookie by Green Day.
Your last album bought?
I went to see Tobias Jesso Jr. a little while back and bought his record. It’s so good. Great songs.
Favorite album of all time?
I think I’ll probably have to go with Born to Run. I have memories of listening to it in the car with my dad on the way to school. It’s a very nostalgic record for me.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I don’t really have a least favorite record of all time. If I don’t like something, I won’t listen to it ha-ha BUT if I were to pick a disappointing record from an artist I like I’d probably go with Bruce Springsteen’s last record. Didn’t really do it for me. (Though I’m still a huge fan).
First concert attended?
My first concert was Mark Knopfler. I went with my dad and I’m pretty sure I fell asleep. I was pretty young and didn’t know any of his songs. I wish I remember it more, because I really like him and the Dire Straits now.
Last concert?
Last concert I went to was for a local Atlanta band called Forje. It was at Smiths Olde Bar.
Favorite concert ever?
My favorite concert was seeing Explosions In The Sky. Two of my best friends and I flew up to NYC a few years ago to see them play in Central Park. It had been raining all afternoon and we stood in this huge line in the rain to get in to the concert area. As soon as they came on the sun came out. It was a pretty crazy experience.
Least favorite concert?
I don’t really have any bad concert experiences. Of course now that I say that the next one I go to is guaranteed to be bad ha-ha.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I haven’t spent any time in Pittsburgh other than spending the night there while passing through on a tour a few years ago. I hear it’s a great city. Look forward to playing there soon!
Thanks, Ben. I am serious about a Pittsburgh gig in the future, man. Let’s make it happen. I would love to meet you since we both have a love for Springsteen instilled from our way cool fathers.
“Connect. Empower. Inspire. Drum Circle Leadership is a step-by-step system created by Jim Donovan M.Ed. designed to show you how to create and lead your own transformational drum circles. To create a world of connection, peace and purpose by teaching people how to create their own transformational rhythmic events.”
Jim Donovan is a drummer but looking at his resume, he is so much more than that. Mostly known as being a former member of Pittsburgh rock legends Rusted Root, Jim is also a faculty member of St. Francis University, a master facilitator, inspirational trainer and author of Drum Circle Leadership program. His latest album is called Sun King Warriors and I expected his music to have a heavy tribal sound but was pleasantly surprised with the catchy pop and hints of heavy rock hooks throughout the record. You can catch Jim and his band The Sun King Warriors perform a set this Sunday (2/7) at WYEP’s 16th Annual Alternative Souper Bowl at Carnegie Library in Oakland and at the official album release bash on March 12. I want to thank Jim for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
My very first album I bought in 1981 was the Rolling Stones Tattoo You at Jamesway in Somerset, PA. I remember taking it home, holding the album and staring at it every day wishing I could listen to it. Unfortunately, those were lean years and I had no turntable for the first four months I had the record. Luckily, my parents bought me a small record player for Christmas that year.
Your last album bought?
I bought a Modest Mouse double vinyl album for my daughter Tupelo. She and her friends have discovered the joy of sitting and listening to record albums which gives me a lot of hope for the next generation.
Favorite album of all time?
I have to go with Sly and the Family Stone’s, Dance to the Music. This is the first music I remember hearing as a child and remember asking my mother to play it over and over and over. I still listen to it that way sometimes.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I am a big AC/DC fan and remember being wildly excited about Flick of the Switch hoping it would be another Back in Black. Unfortunately, that turned out not to be the case.
First concert attended?
I am glad to say that Eric Clapton was my first show, ‘Behind the Sun Tour’ 1985, Graham Parker and the Shot opened the night. I somehow convinced my mother to let me take my first girlfriend Sue down to Merriweather Post Pavilion near DC to see the show. That amphitheater was always one of my favorite places to play with Rusted Root. I remember several great shows opening for Santana and The Allman Brothers.
Last concert?
I just had a great time seeing The Clarks right around Christmas time. I love those guys.
Favorite concert ever?
I would have to say watching Robert Plant and Jimmy page from the audience after just having opened for them at the Civic Arena in 1995 was an epic experience. Robert Plant told the whole Pittsburgh crowd how he thought we were the best new band in America. Then he dedicated “The Song Remains the Same” to us at which point I had tears streaming down my face. At the end of the show, Jimmy page came out in a Rusted Root T-shirt for the encore. Yeah, I’d have to pick that one.
Least favorite concert?
My least favorite show was one that I played in the first cover band I was in. It was a party for a guy who is going to the Air Force and it devolved into a serious brawl. It was one of those Iron City beer bottles breaking over people’s heads kind of brawl. Needless to say, I couldn’t wait to get out of there.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh has always been my home, even when I’ve been away from it. The thing I love the most are the people. By and large, I’ve met so many friendly and helpful people in all my years here. Through the years, Pittsburghers have been a resilient lot and have figured out how to make things work, even when times are tough. It is so satisfying to see the city beginning to bloom after so many years of challenge. My guess is that in the next 10 years, the city will be even more of a destination for people to move to because of the combination of high quality arts, good jobs, amazing food, proximity to nature, and good people.
Thanks, Jim. Love the records, man and I think you win the ‘Favorite Concert Ever’ title with that story. Very cool.
“Consisting of 6 musicians with backgrounds ranging from quick punk rock to classically trained, Seafair has been turning heads all over Ohio since their inception in late 2012. The sharp heavy hitting drumming of Ryan Kelly, the finesse and intensity of guitar and bass player’s Michael Flaherty and Joshua Riehl, the absolute beauty and precision of the cellist and violinist Tara Hanish and Andrea Belding, and the powerful voice, presence and words of frontwoman Chayla Hope makes the Seafair live show a force to reckon with.”
Seafair is a chamber-rock band from Cleveland who are diligently working on their soon to be released follow up to the excellent 2015 album The Querencia. They head on down to Pittsburgh on Friday (1/29) for a killer bill at Howlers with local faves Grand Bell and Lone Wolf Club. This is a show you do not want to miss. I want to thank Chayla Hope (Keys/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Katie Hate is a three piece “Punkternative” band who plays a lot bigger then their numbers would suggest. Their energy and stage presence are becoming legendary already for such a young band. Katie Hate’s music is a combination of musical influences that are mixed in a secret brew of notes, chords, knock out lyrics, and social satire. Their ability to tell a story and keep you moshing is a rarity. This places them in a Genre of their own, thus the term “Punkternative,” is born!”
Katie Hate is an up and coming alt-rock band from Pittsburgh who’s debut Let’s Pretend Again can be heard here. They have a scheduled show at Altar Bar in a few weeks and be sure go out and support these guys. I want to thank Max Theofilis (Guitar/Vocals), Bobby Fello (Bass/Vocals) and Jake Saltzman (Drums) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Charlie Hustle & the Grifters brings together four Pittsburgh musicians under the banner of heady musical synergy. Its members include guitarist Peter Flynn and upright bassist Trish Imbrogno of The Grifters, drummer Dave Varasse from one of Pittsburgh’s premier funk bands, the Old E Allstars, and guitarist Patrick Varine. The quartet comes together and forms like Voltron! … if Voltron consisted of two guitars, upright bass, drums and a fond desire to blend rock, folk and the blues into a gritty, tasty stew.”
Charlie Hustle & the Grifters are a jam/blues band from Pittsburgh who are part of a cool event coming up on Saturday (1/23). at The Oaks Theater in Oakmont. Get on your dancin’ shoes and find out all the info here. I want to thank Patrick Varine (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“Hailing originally from central Pennsylvania, Sarah Halter, the front woman, guitarist, and lead songwriter of Blue Clutch, has been playing guitar and singing since the age of sixteen, studying and incorporating various styles of music including folk, acoustic rock, heavy metal, and bluegrass. Current Blue Clutch members consist of Sarah Halter, Lia Silverbeams, and Alisa Jacobson. The upcoming debut EP, Little Grave Digger, will contain original songs bringing unique artistry and power to the Pittsburgh music scene. Heavy acoustic rhythms, minor keys, melodic guitar melodies, as well as empowering, penetrating lyrics reflecting on some of the darker undertones of this life will be found on the first EP and during live performances.”
Blue Clutch is a new alternative rock band from Pittsburgh lead by Sarah Halter (Guitar/Vocals). The band is prepping their debut EP to be released soon and have a trio of shows lined up for next month. I want to thank Sarah for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
The first album I remember buying at the store when I was younger was Hybrid Theory by Linkin Park. I loved their sound at the time because they had some of the edgier tunes on the radio.
Your last album bought?
The last album (or I guess in this case it is technically an EP) I bought was Liss Victory’s most recently released EP called The Low Lights Make Me Love You.
Favorite album of all time?
This is a really difficult question, but one of my favorite albums of all time
is Fallen by Evanescence. It was truly inspiring to hear such a talented female musician front a superbly-talented band even though they went mainstream in the rock and even the pop worlds.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I don’t really have one. All of the albums I’ve listened to in the past are usually due to some particular interest with the band/performer or one of their songs. If I choose to commit time to listen to an entire album, I probably already like the artist or what they have done in some way.
First concert attended?
I think it was Gloria Estefan, but I don’t remember the year, and I was very young. My parents took me along.
Last concert?
I’ve been saving my pennies, so I have not going to hardly any big concerts as of recently. However, I have frequented a few of the local venues to support the local scene. One of the more recent group shows I’ve went to was the October Girlie Show at Hambone’s. It was a fortuitous choice to attend this show and become involved with The Girlie Show: Pittsburgh Edition because now I am the new host of this event.
Favorite concert ever?
Evanescence at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College, PA circa 2007.
Least favorite concert?
Yellowcard at the Bryce Jordan Center, circa 2005.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
So far some of my greatest memories in Pittsburgh generally have to do with getting established in the music community. I moved here in July of 2014, knew pretty much no one, and then started hitting every open mic to meet people and continue to build my music performance experience. Now I have an EP coming out this year, have formed a band, and have learned so much about myself as a musician, music itself, and the industry in only six months. Of course, there is still loads of work to be done, but I am really looking forward to what all is ahead here.
Thanks, Sarah. May I be one of the first to publicly welcome you to the scene! Looking forward to hearing the new music.
“Some Kind of Animal started as a side project between close friends & longtime collaborators Anthony Jardine & Tim Mulhern. Somewhere along the way the side project turned into the songwriters main primary focus. Songs laced with lyrical imagery and melodic harmonies spun throughout them are set in a musical beds that are a part modern, part timeless vibe. They have spent the majority of 2015 writing and recording their upcoming debut LP that is being produced by Tyler Watkins of the band Margot & The Nuclear So & So’s at Postal Recording Studio in Indianapolis. Early returns of those sessions are slated for a late 2015/early 2016 release.”
Some Kind of Animal is a chamber rock band from Pittsburgh who make their debut live performance this Sunday (1/10) at Spirit in Lawrenceville to celebrate the release of their debut self-titled album. Joining the fun will be The End of America from Philly and blog fave Morgan Erina. I want to thank Anthony Jardine (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The Harvest Colour is a new acoustic progressive rock band from Pittsburgh who’s debut album Chrysalis is available at the exact moment this post goes live! Their video of “Spring To Come” was released two days ago and already has 5+K views! Can you say ‘band to watch?’ I want to thank Gabe Mangold (Guitar/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
“I was just feeling like putting out more music more often so I figured going solo on the side was the best way to do it.”
Anton Charr is the stage name of musician Antony Chirovsky who is digitally releasing his debut album Whole Soul Furnace via First Flight Records before heading off to London with a cool show this Saturday (1/2) at Brew on Broadway in Beechview. Much thanks to Anton for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Shadows Collide with People by John Frusciante. I had quite a few albums before that which my mother owned and I listened to frequently. Everything from Chicago and the Beatles to Carly Simon and Fine Young Cannibals and Cat Stevens. In many ways it was my appreciation for Cat Stevens that began my first forays into owning my own music and John Frusciante was the one. Especially at that period of his music (before he was always a bit too strung out and now he is in a new electronic and Acid-Rock phase) his vocal quality reminded me of Cat Stevens and his musical ability, while always obviously present in the Red Hot Chili Peppers, was really on display for that record and it was just awesome. “Omission” is still one of my favorite songs and I may or may not judge a potential collaborator on whether they know it or might want to sing it with me.
Your last album bought?
The Long Goodbye by John Paul White.I had always really liked The Civil Wars and since they split up I was looking for something in the same vein. I found his solo album from before they got together. I’m still spending time with it so my opinion is not the best informed. He displays the same lyrical maturity that made the group as good as it was but I think the restrictions of an acoustic duo really let the beauty shine and this record sometimes sounds a little over-instrumentalised. Still really good.
Favorite album of all time?
I always seem to have a new “favorite record ever” every week. But one I keep coming back to is John Mayer’s Born and Raised. It was so stripped down and honest compared with his earlier work but also has this elegance of style and word-play that makes it a pleasure to listen to. He also likes to wear his influences on his sleeve and that’s a trait I really appreciate. It is why I also like Muse and Dawes and Frusciante. I like the idea of music as history and that history is nowhere more accessible than when you can trace the influences. Like John Mayer’s blues playing shows influences of Albert King because Mayer was influenced by SRV who was influenced by King. I like that.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
El Camino by The Black Keys While it is definitely hopping record and a great one to go for a run with, after the
musical depth and beauty of Brothers, it was rather disappointing, made more so by my perception of their live performances as getting poorer on the following tour.
First concert attended?
The first concert/gig was a local Pittsburgh high school band with some friends of mine, Hot Metal Bridge at the Rex. Just some good Rolling Stones covers and lame bandannas and pleather jackets and fun times. Full out touring national act wise, it was The Black Keys show I’ll talk about later.
Last concert?
I’ve been out of the country and busy with school so there haven’t been a lot of chances recently. The last big-time show was probably John Mayer right after Paradise Valley came out. I also saw local artist Zach Hudson in a show a while back as well. I have seen a few stand-up specials filmed for BBC 3 this past year. No music yet though.
Favorite concert ever?
Los Lonely Boys at the Pittsburgh Blues Festival at Hartwood Acres a few years back. Best live performance, including YouTube videos, that I’ve ever seen. I think it was their last stop of that tour and they just went all out. It was great.
Least favorite concert?
When the Black Keys were in Pittsburgh during the El Camino tour, as you may have guessed from my least favorite album. It was so short, only like 55 minutes with the encore, and all the songs were played at what seemed like double time. It just felt as though the band did not want to be there and I could tell.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
There’s so much about this city to love. The music scene is one of the greatest parts. All of the great people I’ve had a chance to listen to and work with. Adam Levine of Circles and Squares, Jeremy Caywood, Zach Hudson, Jeff Betten, Andre Costello…. Pittsburgh is also the only city I can really call home. I’ve lived in many places along the Eastern Time Zone and I’ve spent time in Europe and the UK but Pittsburgh is home. It has an international feel to it thanks to the many cultures from a history of immigrants. It is also extremely walk-able (at least if you’re OK with hills) and the public transport, while not the best, has a certain charm. I love it here.
Thanks, Anton. Looking forward to hearing the album. Also, safe travels to London, my man!
“Old Soles and Seedy Players is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and producer Dan Sty. With influences ranging from Steely Dan and Harry Nilsson to Foxygen and The Beach Boys, OSSP spans multiple genres to create a fresh and unique sound.”
Old Soles and Seedy Players is a neo-soul psychedelic pop band from Pittsburgh who are helping to close out 2015 this Saturday (12/26) with a bangin’ show on the south side featuring blog faves Balloon Ride Fantasy and power-popsters Paint31. I want to thank Dan Styslinger (Keys/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
Thanks, Dan. Happy Holidays, brother. Hopefully see you play in the New Year!
“Odd Hours is heavily influenced by 80’s post-punk and 90’s industrial music – they mix sexy to aggressive vocals with raunchy guitar and spacey ukulele.”
Odd Hours is an indie electro post-pop band who’s latest release norepinephrine + dopamine will certainly be featured as the band hits Pittsburgh on Friday (12/18) at the Smiling Moose for the late show with local blog faves Action Camp, Egomyth, and Atlas. Join me in thanking Natasha Beste (Keys/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Madonna Like a Prayer. Madonna is what sparked my interest in performing. She’s pretty bad ass for doing what she’s wanted to do and for this long. I like how she changes and morphs herself and doesn’t apologize for it.
Your last album bought?
HEALTH Death Magic. We are seeing them in a few weeks and can’t wait. This new album is so hot. I run to it outside and pretend that I’m in a music video with things just blowing out around me and monsters running after me. Ah!
Favorite album of all time?
NIN The Downward Spiral. This really got me into sampling and modifying sounds and mixing dance with rock – I was twelve. Just a great go to album I can listen to all the way through a million times. Second favorite right now is Kanye’s Yeezus, no joke. That was so loud and powerful. Tim and I both wasted that album on repeat.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Honestly, I always give albums multiple tries. I’ve been pleasantly surprised more than disappointed. But actually, now that I think of it, I tried listening to non-radio Nicki Minaj songs and they were all horrible. I love her flow and her style so I was pretty upset with that.
First concert attended?
NIN + David Bowie 1994 Tour at The Palace in Auburn Hills, MI. I recorded it with a small cassette tape recorder and still have the tape. My mom took me, it was great.
Last concert?
Queen Kwong at Small’s in Hamtrack, MI. I guess Wes Borland and his girl just moved here to Detroit. I hope they like it. We like it. They had a good crowd and it was fun.
Favorite concert ever?
Any Marilyn Manson show ever. Some people think he’s cheesy or just disregard him altogether but he has such a great sense of humor and is so fun to watch. Tim and I have seen him several times together and it’s always a great bonding experience for us.
Least favorite concert?
The Yeah Yeah Yeah’s. Tim’s gonna kill me because he loves them and I still like them but it was just a boring venue maybe and the show was just blah.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
We’ve never been! I hope we entertain the pants off people. We love meeting new people too, so please say hi!
Thanks, Natasha. That’s a killer bill you got lined up at The Moose on Friday. Hope you have a great night!
“Eric Vermillion, formerly of 90’s bands Gumball and the Steel Miners (and, in the 80’s, the Stump Wizards), has resurfaced with a new band… The Full Counts.”
The Full Counts is an alt-rock band from Pittsburgh who’s debut album First Out comes in both an electric version and acoustic version. I want to thank songwriter Eric Vermillion (Bass/Vocals) for not only taking the to participate in this edition of First/Last but becoming the first to do so in submitting his answers in his own handwriting.
Eric: I guess I missed one of those questions, though…
The last record I bought was Machine Gun Etiquette, by The Damned.
Thanks, Eric. Very cool of you to take the time to actually write down your answers. I have done over 1000 of these First/Lasts and you are the only one who ever did that!
“Influences: Tiny Tim, Buddy Nutt, Weird Paul, Ella Fitzgerald, and old dead people who are better than me.”
Pierogi Pizza is the moniker for Pittsburgh songwriter and ukulele artist Jody Perigo who recently released her debut album entitled Smoke. Formerly of Great Great Ants and Moldies and Monsters, Jody turns it down a notch with her take on ‘old-timey jazz folk’ on this record. I want to thank Jody for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
With my own allowance money, Aerosmith Permanent Vacation.
Your last album bought?
I just bought the latest album by a band from Washington, D.C. called More Humans. They were once a Pittsburgh band when they were attending Pitt. I’ve loved everything they’ve done and they’re all around great guys too!
Favorite album of all time?
I go in phases, so I’ve never really had a favorite. Too many to list!
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Same as above, but I remember this being more common before you could cheat and preview music on the internet!
First concert attended?
Tesla and Firehouse at the Johnstown War Memorial! I think my sister’s boyfriend at the time just wanted an innocent 11-year-old to come along to more successfully smuggle in a flask of whiskey!
Last concert?
I think the last touring act I went to see was Bombino at the Rex. He’s a guitarist from Niger. I love how international music goes beyond the barriers of language to take us to a whole different world!
Favorite concert ever?
I have a lot of awesome concert memories, but maybe one that sticks out in my memory is St. Vincent with David Byrne at the Palace in Greensburg. David Byrne’s usual weirdness, St. Vincent’s guitar playing, their stage presence together… and they even had a full horn section! I think it was because I had free tickets and I went in with no expectations, so it was a pleasant surprise! I also remember crying at a Police concert during the song “King of Pain”, so that sticks out in my head too!
Least favorite concert?
I’m sure there were a few, but I remember one time tagging along to a Gary Puckett show and he did that annoying thing where he tried to give the audience a guilt trip for not clapping/cheering loud enough. He bragged about his accomplishments, how many albums he sold, and how he met Elvis. He just seemed washed up and desperate!
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I’ve lived in the Pittsburgh area since 2003 and I understand how many people get sucked into the vortex and can’t stay away for too long, love it or hate it! I really love the people, and I’m a small town/country girl at heart, so I like that the trees and mountains aren’t too far away.
Thanks, Jody. I love that you refer to Weird Paul as an influence… I believe he is an influence on all of us whether we know it or not!
“Steve’s been known to trade CDs for a floor to crash on or even just a few kind words. He likes whiskey after
his set, too—just saying. Stephen Lee performs “featured sets” of original music, and traditional four hour sets, including bar room and outlaw country standards by The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Credence Clearwater Rival, George Jones, Neil Young, and many hits from the American Song Book.”
Stephen Lee is an Americana/Cowpunk songwriter from Baltimore, MD who’s latest release is his West of Twenty – Three full length via Okay Recordings. As I coax Stephen to head up on over to Pittsburgh for a gig, join me in thanking him for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Limp Bizkit – Chocolate Star Fish in the Hotdog Flavored Water Radio Edit. I went to the store to buy the album cause I liked the songs I heard on the radio but it was $12.99 so I was looking through the bargain bin to find something that was $10.00 or less and I found the radio edit version of the album for $6.99. In hindsight this really should have been a red flag but I was so stoked to get the album that I just bought it immediately. I don’t remember it being particularly bad, but there were definitely whole verses bleeped out, ha-ha.
Your last album bought?
The last album I bought was with an iTunes gift card I got from an internship I did with a royalties distribution company. It was Lucero –1372 Overton Park. I’m a big fan of theirs, but currently being a starving artist, with a spotify subscription my brother got me for Christmas I don’t buy albums of bigger bands. I save my money for local and touring acts’ merch.
Favorite album of all time?
Favorite album is a tricky thing for me. It changes based on mood, but one that I can come back to again and again is The Weight – Ten Mile Grace (on spotify). I’m partial to a country sound, but nonetheless the lyrics are so thoughtful and crafted and express emotions that are so pure and straight forward. The music is perfectly timed and matches the mood of the stories exactly, while ranging from solo acoustic guitar to full on rock and roll. Eight out of ten times I can listen to this record no matter what’s going on in my life.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Music is such a complex thing that rarely I find an album that is exactly what I want. I can’t really think of an album that disappointed me, usually I only pay attention to the albums I really like.
First concert attended?
AFI, The Art of Drowning Tour in 2001. It was in Hawaii so there was only one local opener, The Knumbskulls and they did an AFI cover. It was amazing.
Last concert?
I don’t get to go to many concerts I’m not actually playing these days, but I had a day off in OH back in October and I caught Matt Woods in Circleville, OH on his Jail Break (Full Band) Tour. It blew my mind. His songwriter and performance is always stellar but having a full band backing him just floored me. My brother, Adam Lee also opened that show and his performance is always amazing. As a performer watching both Matt and Adam is such a learning experience. I was torn between watching the show and just sitting in the back and taking notes, ya know? One of the best shows I’ve seen in along time.
Favorite concert ever?
I played with this band Wyd Eyd, from Mass. last weekend in Richmond VA that completely blew my mind. I’d never heard of them, but their live set was so inspiring. It’s a two piece, melodic-thrash band with yelled, but not screamed vocals, and a mixture of written and improvisational lyrics.
Least favorite concert?
Any show where the band makes no effort to connect with the audience. Unfortunately, a lot of bigger well known acts just phone it in.
Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is a great town! I’m not gonna lie, its kinda cold and coming up from the south there is an element of culture clash, but once introductions are made yins couldn’t be a warmer and friendlier people. [Did I use yins right?!] ALSO Pittsburgh is the first place I had a Yuengling 32oz! Pittsburgh will forever have special place in my heart–even if I get lost every time I play there.
Thanks, Stephen. You did use the term correctly. We’ll give you that. Although I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it’s is definitely not yins. It is spelled yinz. Try not to make that mistake again… ?
“We have been playing for lots of years in various projects. This is the first time in a lot of years I’m in a band actually playing my songs. It’s really exciting. I started playing music in high school and it has stayed at a constant in my life when everything else around me is crumbled. In 2004 when I got out of the Marine Corps I started using opiates. It pretty much ruined my life. In 2009 I had a son and I started taking my life back. I now have 6 years clean. During those 6 years I didn’t really talk to anybody I just kind of stayed at home to give myself distance from the world and drugs and I started writing songs again. I have about a hundred and forty right now and those of the songs that will be playing as The Long Nights.”
The Long Nights is a genre-bending rock band from Johnstown, PA that blends country, folk, punk and pop into a unique and ultimately satisfying sound. The band have a 4song EP appropriately called The Teaser and will more than likely showcase most of it when they play Hambone’s on Friday (12/4). Much thanks to Dallas Zimmerman (Guitar/Bass/Vocals) for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
On my own was at 6 years old. We are at a yard sale in Patent my hometown and I came across Help by The Beatles I’d already known that The Beatles were because my dad was a big fan. He had a lot of the records but he didn’t have that one. To this day The Beatles are huge part of my life. Hell, I even named my son Lennon.
Your last album bought?
The Suburbs by Arcade Fire and the new Wilco. I don’t really love Arcade Fire, I just had to buy 2 CDs and I grabbed the two newest CDs from bands I kinda like.
Favorite album of all time?
What a hard question. It definitely changes all the time. But here are a few that always stay close by: Jimmy Eat World, Clarity… Bright Eyes, Lifted… The Pixies, Troupe Le Mode… Springsteen, Nebraska… Sunny Day Real Estate, Diary… Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds… Boatman Call
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
Oh, idk. I was really disappointed by the new Pixies. I don’t like The Who at all. One time I was asked to learn a song from Tommy for a compilation, I listened and listened but just couldn’t find a song I liked.
First concert attended?
The Monkees at the fair. The first popular concert I saw was Smashing Pumpkins Mellon Collie tour.
Last concert?
I don’t really go to concerts anymore. Just local shows. The last big concert I saw though was Ben Folds. He’s the best.
Favorite concert ever?
The Weakerthans in Cleveland. They blew me away. The guitar player was the best. He was perfect.
Least favorite concert?
I don’t know. I enjoy every show. Even if the band isn’t my cup of tea, I still enjoy watching anyone perform.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Pittsburgh is great. I grew up in a small town and trips to the burgh were always so exciting. Now a days, I play there a few times a month to awesome people every time. It’s only 45 min away from jtown but it feels culturally like another planet. It’s so inspiring to find so many people and awesome places to play.
Thanks, Dallas. The Monkees are popular, man! Maybe ten times as popular in their time than the Pumpkins will ever be.
Josh Herbert is an up and coming singer-songwriter from Pittsburgh who’s latest release is his self-titled debut full length. You can catch him next performing at Jergel’s on Wednesday (12/2) as I thank him for taking the time to participate in this edition of First/Last.
The first album you ever bought?
Lynyrd Skynyrd Greatest Hits.
Your last album bought?
Ryan Adams Ryan Adams (2015).
Favorite album of all time?
The Beach Boys Pet Sounds.
Least favorite/most disappointing album?
I don’t know if i have a least favorite, there is something I like about every album I’ve bought.
First concert attended?
Coldplay in 2005 at First Niagara Pavilion.
Last concert?
Ed Sheehan in 2015 at Console Energy Center.
Favorite concert ever?
Ryan Adams / Butch Walker at The Playhouse Square in Cleveland, OH.
Least favorite concert?
I don’t think I have one.
Favorite thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
I am fairly new to playing out in the Pittsburgh music scene. My first show there was a little under a year ago. So far it has been a great experience and every person I have met along the way have been nothing but positive and influential.
Thanks, Josh. Great choice on The Beach Boys album. If I have to be honest though, I am particular towards their SMiLE record but what do I know?