Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Making April- Runaway World EP



Making April- Runaway World EP
Released: May 30, 2007
Unsigned

What’s the definition for the next big thing? According to dictionary.com, there are no dictionary entries for the next big thing. There is no way to define the next big thing but people do have there ways to say a band is going to be “the next big thing.” For a band to be successful, you need good management, good booking agent, supportive legal, and most of all a great fan base. Making April has every thing that was stated. This band hailing from Cortlandt Manor in New York, racking in 20,000 plays a day and approaching 100,000 friends on myspace; you would call this band an internet band. But there debut re-release “Runaway World EP” demonstrates what goods this band will perform live for you.

Runaway World has many moods and movements it offers to the piano rock ear. In every teen movie, there’s a love scene. “These Are The Nights” is the song that would be in the background sound. With vocals fluttering with words of remember nights and such, it’s a great way to open an album up. “I Wrote This Song” is a prime example of how the album has many different moods and movements. Coming from a soft opener, it goes straight into a pop piano upbeat piece. The EP continues with its upbeatness with “Driveway.” What’s impressive about vocalist Sean ___ is how is voice has many ranges. This song is compiled with acoustic guitar riffs mixed with some electric. A soft upper register of piano makes the song easily a radio hit.

After coming from two upbeat songs, the tides turn into the depressing stage. “All Of Yours” is a typical song you could find on MTV’s Laguna Beach. Like Stephen and Kristen, things don’t work out in this piece. Sean states how he doesn’t want his girlfriend to say “we became too late well I just think you're humoring yourself let me say one more thing before you fly.” He’s wants to try it again, but he knows it won’t work out in the end. “Chase You Down” is pretty self explanatory. The character wants to chase her down, to get her. The next two pieces flirt with your ears. Starting off with soft piano the moods change somewhere in the middle of the song. “Jump In” brings in how important friends are. They are always going to be there for you. He doesn’t want to bother so he just says “and tell me when this gets better but don't be alarmed if I'm not here when you figure it out just call, I'll throw you a line.” He wants to give space. The EP is closed with three pieces. “Hurry Up And Wait” bringing in violins and some more acoustic guitar, stating how they want to escape there troubles and “haunting.” The EP is closed with the name of the EP, Runaway World (Acoustic). Stating how a girl can’t find commitment, Making April brings comparisons from The Fray mixed with Mae. She doesn’t want to hurt the person because of fear.

“Here's my heart for you” is what this whole EP is based on. Making April now brings you an album you wish Mae would make. It fills every emotion as well as every mood you can feel in life, except anger. Now back to the opening paragraph, what is the definition of “the next big thing?” Making April may have just given me a clear meaning with Runaway World.


Myspace Purevolume Buy or Itunes

Track Listing:
1. These are the Nights
2. I Wrote This Song
3. Driveway
4. All of Yours
5. Chase You Down
6. Roses and Butterflies
7. Jump In
8. Runaway World
9. Hurry Up and Wait
10. Runaway World (Acoustic)

Travis Bryant Interview


Interview with Travis Bryant of Goodbye Tomorrow



Before we start this interview, could you please state your name and what band you perform for?


*Yo soy Travis. Yo canto. (I am Travis Bryant and I sing.)

When Terminal broke up and you were added to replace Matthew Gilbert of Goodbye Tomorrow, How did the Goodbye Tomorrow find you? What were your feelings going into this band? What were your expectations going into this band? Did you think that you were ever going to be in a band again?


*I received an email from a band member insisting that we talk when terminal played phoenix. All four of the guys came out and we discussed. I wasn’t really interested in the possibility of singing with them until they showed me their new instrumental material. It was breathtaking. I knew I would be playing with a solid band eventually but hadn’t any idea it would be one of this caliber. After meeting the guys and hearing the music, I was fairly desperate to be a part of the band.

When the self-titled Goodbye Tomorrow EP came out, what did you think of it? How did you feel about the fans reaction? What was your favorite track of the EP and why? Any songs left off it?


*I was more proud of those three songs than I had been of anything I’d done previously. People have made very nice comments in regards to the songs and the impact they are making, as well as the band’s progression. My personal favorite is probably Vespertine due to the personal nature of the lyrics and vibe.

In the song “A Verpertine Haunting”. Can you explain what the lyric “ I’ll share your ghost tonight?”

*No, not really.

Goodbye Tomorrow is recording. Can you tell us who is producing the album? How many tracks are on it? Any title? When can we expect it to hit shelves?

*Tracking for the record is now completed. Mark Trombino produced the twelve tracks. As of now, we are expecting eleven on the album. Song and album titles, as well as a release date, are very tentative at the moment so I must unfortunately leave you in the dark.

Will there be a re-release of “Tied By Miles”?

*Negative. That was a different band. We play our songs.

What were your emotions to getting signed to Equal Vision Records? Do you like EV more than Tooth & Nail? Is Equal Vision the right place?


*Elated. Working with Equal vision has been an unbelievably pleasant experience. I am infinitely happier with the label’s support and enthusiasm regarding Goodbye Tomorrow. Best indie label around.

Why did Terminal depart? Were there any conflicts inside of the band?


*We started off as five close friends and all grew irreparably apart on the road. It was an extremely dysfunctional and an impossible environment for each member’s happiness.

Do you still keep in contact with the guys in Terminal? Do you support all the bands they are in?


*I talk to James. He was a great friend to me and I will always love him; Matt too, on occasion. I will always support them in their pursuit of happiness; whether it be quitting terminal, starting a metal band, or building a spaceship.

What is your most personal song you made? What does it mean to you?


*I have written a few songs in Phoenix that lack proper recordings, “weep” and “Missouri”. They are both contenders. One is for the world. One is for my mother.

What made you want to change from being in a “harder” genre in Letter Twelve to a mellower genre in the same band except being called Terminal?


*We were all maturing as musicians and I especially as a songwriter. I will speak for myself in saying that I wanted to write good rock music that I enjoyed listening to, having grown out of the genre that possessed Letter Twelve. Plus, the name was stupid to look at.

While in Terminal, you guys were strongly compared to “Recover”. How did it feel to be called a “Recover “ cover band? What were your biggest influences? Are there any B-sides around off of “How The Lonely Keep”?

*Recover was the best band playing in that scene, and a huge influence to all of Terminal’s members. I would much rather be considered a “recover cover band” than a Taking Back Sunday or Thursday cover band like all of that other garbage. I have and will always be heavily influenced by Counting Crows too. Glassjaw was another serious factor. The other guys would likely say the same. I wrote a few extra songs with the bunch for HTLK. They are on my computer at home and that is where I intend them to stay.

Now going to your solo project. What made you want to start this? Why didn’t you keep the solo act going? Can we expect new songs soon or an album?


*I was writing a significant amount of music that didn’t fit with Terminal’s sound. I have a ton of beautiful and sad songs that are yet to surface. My sanity is very contingent on writing music, thus keeping it a very consistent part of my life. I have sincere intentions to release a solo album once Goodbye Tomorrow is more established. A vinyl release is my dream.

What was your most memorable moment with any band?

*Having sadly underdeveloped relationships with all of the wonderful people I meet.

What album are you anticipating the most in 2007?

*If Counting Crows hammer it out, they are my obvious choice. The gods aside, radiohead or terminal.

What’s next for Goodbye Tomorrow after this tour with Pierce The Veil? Can we expect a full U.S tour? And with who?

*We are beyond excited to do some dates with our brothers in Brighten and This Providence. It’s sure to be a love fest.

Well, that is all I have to ask. Would you like to say any last words before letting you go?


*I would like to make known that I am grateful for every ear my voice and words have resonated within. Your inquiries have exhausted my head and now I must repair, Kyle.


Thanks a lot Travis,

Kaddisfly Interview


Kaddisfly Interview with Chris Ruff and Kelcey


SWH: Can you state your name and role you perform in the band?

Yeah sure. Christopher Ruff, and I sing for a band named Kaddisfly.

SWH: Where did the name of the band "Kaddisfly" originate?

A Kaddisfly is actually an insect from the northwest and its one of those little dudes that can walk on water. There mostly used for dry fishing. It’s mostly just from where the region we are from.

SWH: What were your thoughts about the newer release of "Set Sail The Prairie?" Any b-sides available?

We are really happy with the way it came out. It has actually been done for a year now. It was postponed because we just wanted some more time to take with the band and the performance. March was a good time to release it. Yes there are two b-sides available. One that is on the Four Seasons EP we release. Also, one called "Flowers" which will be released soon.

SWH: What have been your biggest influences?

Dude, just life in itself really. I'm thinking that one band we are all inspired by is probably Tears For Fears. But other than that, we love so many bands so it’s all over the board. Pop, Rock, Indie, and everything.

SWH: How did it feel to be on Take Action Tour

Ahh it’s awesome! It's been so awesome to see how many people come out and see the shows. Means so much to us.

SWH: Also, I read an article on Revolution on Canvas 2. What did you contribute towards it?

Well, we were approached by them I had some extra writings and lyrics so I decided to donate some of it. It’s going to be sick.

SWH: What’s happening now after the Take Action Tour?

We might be playing a couple shows here and there. But we are playing the second part of Warped Tour this year. Can't Wait!

Interview with Chris and Kelsey of Kaddisfly


SWH: Do you guys support downloading music? What are your feelings on the matter in general?

(Chris)
I can’t say that I have a strong opinion on the issue. For smaller bands downloading is a great way to spread the music and start a word of mouth buzz. For the overall industry I’m not sure. Personally there’s nothing I can do about it and I don’t really care all that much. If fans really like a band they will buy the record.

SWH: Did Kaddisfly bring a different approach to “Set Sail The Prairie” than with previous releases?

(Chris)
Set Sail the Prairie is a more mature record overall. We put more thought and physical time into this album than any of our previous releases. We had a concise vision going into the recording process and I believe that we we’re able to accomplish what we set out to do.

SWH: Personally, what’s your favorite song off of album?

(Chris)
I might have to say “Via Rail.” In my opinion it is one of the best songs we’ve written.

SWH: Is Kaddisfly still writing while on the road?

Constantly.

SWH: What inspires Kaddisfly for this particular quote: "Write. Influence. Change. Live. "?

(Kelsey)
It’s kind of out mission statement; what we want to achieve through playing music and living our lives. I just hope we can make a positive impact on people.

SWH: What inspires Chris and his writing style (lyrically, musically)?

(Kelsey)
I heard that some guy calls him once a month and he just starts writing. That’s the word on the street….

SWH: What was it like working with Kris Crummett?

(Kelsey)
It was like having your cake and eating it to. He has a great ear and great ideas and is a maestro on the drums. It was great to work with someone you could totally relate to musically and personally. And he really likes hot sauce…

SWH: How has Sub City/Hopeless treated you?

(Kelsey)
I feel like overall, we have been a challenge to them, but it has worked out wonderfully. It’s pretty obvious that we are a different kind of band then those they generally work with. They have been nothing but supportive in all the decisions that we make, musically and otherwise. We’re also on the same wavelength as far helping people through charity and such.

SWH: Now 5% of the profits of “Set Sail The Prairie” go towards the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. What does the donation entail?

(Kelsey)
It goes to helping the music programs in local Portland schools. Music was a huge part of my life through school, and to see it dwindling away is really disheartening. We just want to give back whatever we can and hopefully, kids will find the beauty in music.

Oh, The Story!- Good Morning Illumination



Oh, The Story- Good Morning Illumination

Release Date: May 25, 2007
Record Label: Unsigned

As everyone knows, Absolutepunk.net posts news, reviews, interviews, and everything else. While I was recently reading a review on The Late Night- I Said Goddamn(great album and great review), I stumbled in a conversation between Townson becoming the next Chicago with bands like All Time Low, The Dangerous Summer, The Apathy Eulogy. While reading many posts, listening to at least 10 myspace pages; I came across a band called Oh, The Story!

While listening to there myspace and purevolume pages, I was instantly liking what I heard. Then I came across the Our Mailbox June 18 (Week Prior) and saw that Oh, The Story's debut release Good Morning Illumination. An unsigned act like this wasn't getting much push for a review from the Our Mailbox post. So, after many obstacles and talks I finally got my ears on Oh, The Story- Good Morning Illumination.

This six piece band, instantly had me hooked from beginning to end. Like many records the album starts off with an intro, in this case "The Overture." Just a mix of acoustics and some catchy techno keys that lead into the song " I Am", where in this song is where vocalist James Larson belts out sounds "let me catch my breath, I let my heart out run my head." That line is worth getting stuck in your head for a good week. "Come Hell Or High Water" keeps your ears locked and loaded to the stereo or headphones. With talking of demons and sinners, it sounds like a Fall of Troy song. The song "Sin, Repent, Repeat" is one song that sticks out more than all the others. Through this song, and many others; James Larson reminds me of a Corey Warning of The Graduate. The next couple pieces, contain a softer side of Oh, The Story! With the noise in "Room and Board", it is an instant go to sleep song. Not a boring song, just a simply, deep hearted, piano cliche with very soft melodically vocals. The rest of the album has many highs, and hardly any lows. Ending this album, "It's Not An Ending At All..." starts off with some slow piano and acoustic. This song talks about how this man misses his girlfriend, who seems to be cheating on him. After that, the emotions get deeper as there are violins and chorus sing along to "Oh my love tonight your living and listening, your sleeping with another and your wishing it was me" and with James spurting out "I'm Coming Home" to end this stellar album.

Overall, I had such a high anticipation for this album after hearing what I heard on the internet. Good Morning Illumination did not disappoint me at all. With sounds ranging from The Graduate, Morning for The Masses, and The Audition. Maybe AP user evilandgood was right, about Townson(Maryland) turning into the Chicago. Oh, The Story! has a full world of potential. With the talents this kids hold, its no doubt I cannot wait for another release. Just sit back one day and give this a listen. This record isn't a push to the side album like many pop-punk releases this year. For me to you, this is one album you have to listen to.

Rosematter- The Fiscal Year


The Fiscal Year- Rosematter

Pennsylvania's based band "Rosematter". Consisting with 5 members, this band is not afraid to break into the music scene. For many years, bands with female vocalist weren't given enough credit for what they are. With bands such as Paramore and Flyleaf, Rosematter singer Katie Kolos fits perfectly. Rosematter’s debut "The Fiscal Year" made a big impression on what this bands potential can be. It caught the attention of Lobster Records who have produced such sound as Park, Lorene Drive, and many more.

The Fiscal Year brings about how hard and how soft Rosematter can be. While Katie is lead, Lucas Corish adds background vocals in many songs. The song "Loosely Translated, it Means You're a Lunchbox" is an example of why Rosematter is being compared to Fall Out Boy and Blink 182. Even with female vocals, you can hear shades of bands that have made their marks on music. Most know in "The Blackest Snow Falls on London", this songs is the most personal in my opinion. With its soft acoustic melody’s and vocals, it can grab the heart of anyone. One song that sticks out is "The Legend of Gene Wilder." "The meaning is lost in the context, overflowing with fabrications." its sure to be stuck in your heads with catchy guitar riffs and such.


We can all say we know what bands are going to be the "future." With bands such as All Time Low, Paramore, and more putting there name in music you can soon expect to see Rosematter's name there. Only down side to this album is the length of the album. While having 12 songs on the CD, songs range from 3:30 to 4:00. It can be a hard CD to listen to all the way through, but if you do you won't regret it. Don't get me wrong, this will make a solid foundation for the band to grow on; give this album a chance if you want to hear a female vocalist equivalent of Fall Out Boy. So now, you can introduce your selves to the next Fall Out Boy meets Paramore.

Grade: 73%

Rosematter is...

Katie Kolos - Lead Vocals
Terry Gildow - Bass
Matt Bozievich - Guitar
Lucas Corish - Guitar/Back-up Vocals
Kevin Shoop - Drums




Myspace

The Consequence- By The Bedside EP



The Consequence- By The Bedside EP
Release Date: December 8, 2006
Label: Unsigned

For all 15 year old boys, our music taste changes practically every season. For Winter, me listening to Rocky Votolato and Elliott Smith to when Spring sprung listening to Rufus Wainwright and slowly mixing some Sherwood into the mix. Now with summer, I'll like for you to feast your ears on a 4 piece suit from Roseland, New Jersey called The Consequence. With there debut By The Bedside EP, they are slowly rebuilding the Jersey scene.

To break out that this band isn't a fluke, they open the ep with "Break Out." When you first listen to this song, to me I thought of a Christmas song. A mix of organs with catchy guitar riffs while vocalist JP talks about naughty things he would like to do. "Lush" is a mix of catchy piano and lushicious finger snaps. Again, if you want to have your friends dance at your party; this song is a must.

Throughout the first two tracks, I knew I was going to love this ep. "Fairweather Friend" automatically reminded me of a song I have heard before. It reminded me of a b-side from (+44)'s When Your Heart Stops Beating. Its as if a younger Mark Hoppus is singing this. The next two tracks "Tast Of Autumn" and "Sandcastles" pretty much sum up the rest of the ep. Good, upbeat, catchy piano rock.

By The Bedside is a good debut ep. There are times when its gets a little boring. But maybe its the time of the year. All I know come July, this ep will be playing on my Ipod, cd player, on the beach or where ever you have one. As JP speaks in the track "Sandcastles"; "the best surrounds you." You being The Consequence.


For Fans of: Cartel, Quietdrive, another pop band, and a lot of milk shakes.

Myspace l Buy The Album


Tracklist:
1. Break Out
2. Lush
3. Fairweather Friend
4. Taste of Autumn
5. Sandcastles