Category Archives: Videos

Features, Music Videos, News, Videos

Guilty Pleasure of the Week: Music, art and human canvases

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The Red Paintings
String player performing with The Red Paintings (Photo credit: mystikeel)

Music and art have always been combined, and most people do it right. (read: local Beats and Brushes event hosted by RiPs Entertainment.) Psychedelic performance art rockers The Red Paintings do it with a flair that will keep your ears peeled and your eyes glued to the stage. Trust me when I say, you have never seen or heard anything like this.

That’s why our Guilty Pleasure of the Week segment is coming back with a bang in the form of this Australian, genre-bending, orchestral rock group. Fascination pretty much surrounds this music project, from the moment you listen to the music, to the story behind how lead singer and musical mastermind Trash McSweeney began his musical journey. One near-fatal seizure and many inspiring moments later, and The Red Paintings was born.

Gimmicky bands are sometimes a hit or a miss, but with this group the gimmick is simply artful, colorful, mesmerizing and sometimes downright acid-trip inducing entertainment. Woven around all of that creativity is a voice that isn’t quite perfect but manages to fit into the theme of the music completely. Add in the sweet yet ominous sounds of string instruments, which are usually included in their live ensemble as well, and The Red Paintings succeed in creating its own little Tim Burton-esque world.

The performance is theatrical, and sometimes over-obsessed with Alice in Wonderland, but the music is more than just a soundtrack to a play. McSweeney croons one moment and sears through his lyrics the next, as the dynamics of each song rise and fall like a tumultuous ocean. Still, beautiful pseudo-ballads such as “We Belong in the Sea” are just as alluring and can stand alone without the stage antics.

In essence, the entire package of The Red Paintings is perfect, complete with a big red bow on top.

This is the kind of music experience that is extremely fun to watch live, especially since the group adds in a real-time art collaboration featuring local artists at each of their tour destinations, and even occasionally including human canvasses.

Alright, now are you convinced? If you are, head over to the Griffin on Valentine’s Day (February 14th, in case you forgot), for The Red Paintings, Stone Horse, The Falling Doves and others.

Music Videos, News, Shows, Videos

El Ten Eleven, I’m officially mindblown

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If you haven’t been to a show at the re-purposed church-turned-indie haven The Irenic in San Diego’s North Park, here’s the perfect opportunity to check it out. Instrumental duo El Ten Eleven will be there on November 17th, bringing with them their addictive, meticulously created musical masterpieces. Say that five times fast! Or don’t and instead check out this video. I’m instantly fan. Let me know what you think in the comments, or on our Facebook page!

Features, News, Streetside Sessions, Videos

Sidewalks were made for serenades: Just ask John Cusack

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This is a little mini post. I am turning over a new leaf with this website. I, being the owner, Stephanie. By the end of this post, I am going to need your help.

For those of you who have ever wondered what it would be like to have your own site dedicated to the music scene of San Diego, I have one word for you: Exhausting! That’s the first word that comes to mind, but trust me, that’s not the only one. I can also say that this site is fun, inspirational, and even downright surprising at times. Through hard work and dedication one can get so much done, and see so many things, and I’ve definitely done that over the year.

But there’s a problem. There’s a big stain on my site lately and I’ve been totally lacking in elbow grease. Let’s say that my inspiration is the elbow grease — so you get my drift. I got too roped up in all the opportunities that this site brought about and I worried too much about pleasing everyone else. I realized that at the end of the day this is MY project, and thus I have to start thinking of it in that way.

I thought long and hard about all of the things that bring me inspiration, and I thought about all of the articles I have posted on the site over the course of the past year. Yes, it will be a year on November 21st, since I created my dot com. I know it’s a little too soon for New Years-like nostalgia, but just stick with me for a moment. I thought back and I realized that I had the most fun, the most inspiration, while working on two projects. The first was a piece I did on my friend’s project, Immovable Objects. I sat in the studio with Matt Gagin and his friends, and I learned so much. I witnessed their dedication and talent, and I got to dive right into their musical world. It was enlightening to be let in on such a process.

The second thing was the shortly famous Streetside Sessions. My most views ever on this site came the day after I posted that video. I remember I could hardly contain myself, as I kept having to push back its debut date on the site. I just wanted to share it already! Not only that, but being on the streets of Bankers Hill, listening to a San Diego musician play their songs for their entire neighborhood to hear, was magical. I watched people come out of their balconies to sip a cup of coffee and just listen and admire. I watched passerbys stop to ask insightful questions, and one person even offered a tip! To say that the project was a success would be a severe understatement.

Those were my two favorite moments of theIndie SD, ever. Now I invite you all to help me turn over a new leaf.

Help me help musicians, local musicians, people who want to share their music on a street corner, or conduct an impromptu concert in a park. People who want to genuinely share their love for creation and art. Tell me which bands you think should be a part of something like this. I seriously want to know.

And more so than that, tell me what you want to see on a local music site. What do you not want to see? What kinds of things have you always wanted to do with the San Diego music scene? I know it sounds like I’m just stealing your ideas, but what I want is everyone to have the chance to be a part of this. Music is a community event. It’s something to be shared and experienced, whether you play an instrument or not, whether you sing like an angel or croak like a frog. Consider all of you guys and gals, all of you out there reading this, cordially invited to be a part of it. Come into studios. Sit down with others and learn about their music. Head bang at local music shows. And yes, listen to some great, amazing musicians, playing on the streets of San Diego.

Because at the end of the day, I get absolutely nothing out of this site, no money, no fame, nothing — except fun. I’m profiting off of inspiration. And I want to share the profits with all of you. Here are more than a few ways to reach me, there’s also a comment form, and please don’t be shy! This isn’t just my music scene. It’s all of ours. And we all get to be a part of this creative process, don’t we?

Interviews, News, Shows, Video Interviews, Videos

Hoopties, the Hollywood Bowl, and one rockin’ Liar

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I got the chance to sit down with Chad Wolf of Carolina Liar, and I don’t think it’s possible for this guy to have a boring tour story. Chad, along with band mates Rickard and Johan, have seen it all: from hoopties to out of control Midwest parties, the famous Hollywood Bowl, and of course, an amazing city called San Diego.

You know an interview is getting off on the right foot when someone starts quoting Anchorman, and that’s exactly what happened when I asked Chad the very first question. He had nothing but glowing reviews for San Diego and the Griffin (Oh Mr. Wolf, flattery will get you everywhere and SD loves her compliments), and he reminisced about some of the most exciting moments that the band has had in other cities. Another notable tour stop on his list? Apparently, the Midwest. Chad noted that despite seeming like it should be a calm atmosphere, going to Kansas City is like “going to Vegas in the middle of the Midwest.” The lead singer told a hilarious story about one bar in particular:

“People just get crazy! The first time we played in Kansas City, we ended up in a bar … and it just turned into this full on free for all of just people and just madness. I remember reaching down to tap the waitress who was helping us out that night and she just grabs my face and starts making out with me. People were spraying water all over, it was turning into a wet t-shirt contest … and we were all just kind of looking at each other like ‘What is going on in this place?’ And Kansas from that point on has always been absolutely just crazy. One of our favorite places to play of course.”

The guys of Carolina Liar have even more miles on their agenda this year, including opening for Kelly Clarkson and the Fray. The band had just played at the Hollywood Bowl the previous night, and lead singer Chad was still glowing from the iconic experience. “The energy when you walk out [on stage], you just get the goosebumps,” he said about the famous landmark, which has welcomed artists like the Beatles and Aretha Franklin. “As you’re walking closer and closer to the front of the stage, you just feel the chills from the whole thing. It was amazing.”

The band is having a lot of fun playing songs from their latest album, Wild Blessed Freedom, (and of course sprinkling in tunes from their first album), and talking with Chad made me realize how much of an uphill battle it’s been for the group. Knowing the hard work and dedication that goes behind music can really add an appreciation to it, and that’s no exception for Carolina Liar. The group split amicably with Atlantic Records and decided to release their second album on their own label, and Chad mentioned it’s been a learning experience. “The difference between working for a major [label] and then working for yourself is the amount of time…things take.” But the group is pulling through it, and Chad stated that almost a year later, “now, this record is starting to get it’s own little motor behind it. It’s a wild ride.”

The album, which definitely touches on everything from power pop ballads to punchy, lyrical rhythms, has a mainstream sound that temporarily painted a very One Tree Hill-ish atmosphere inside the Griffin, which is actually a lot cooler than it sounds on paper. And each song, as the lead singer stated, has “it’s own little story.” Most of the songs seem to be a product of pure inspiration, teamwork, and….Thin Lizzy. “[Rick] and I were listening to Thin Lizzy like crazy at the time. No matter when or where we were at, it was all Thin Lizzy, all day long.” Take all of that into consideration, and you get this well-oiled ready to rock machine with songs that are both honest and ready for the radio.

If you want to hear even more about Chad and the rest of Carolina Liar’s experiences in San Diego, check out the video above! And if you’re not in San Diego, don’t miss these guys during one of their tour stops with Kelly Clarkson and the Fray.

Interviews, News, Video Interviews, Videos

Warped Interviews: Tonight, we are Alive!

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Meet Australian pop rockers Tonight Alive, Warped Tour’s resident “foreign exchange students” as one guy enthusiastically yelled out before their interview, during their stop in San Diego, CA. I got to sit down with Jenna McDougall and Whakaio Taahi and discuss everything from their experience so far on Warped, to their first full length album, What Are You So Scared Of? For a band that is barely graduating from their freshman year in the game, Tonight Alive is quickly making a name for themselves and putting a few of the seniors in their place, too. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be the most humble, down to earth people from down under. And….. cue the unison “awww”!

Being a ‘female-fronted band’ in a typically perceived man’s world, Jenna and Whakaio had wise words to say about their music and the bands that share this rather broad category with them. Some people may argue that it’s easier or more difficult for a female-fronted band, but lead singer Jenna notes that Tonight Alive have had no special treatment, and “if you’re doing it right, it’s as hard as it is for everyone else.” Whakaio further adds that he doesn’t see the group as being a female-fronted band. “The thing about Jenna,” he states, “is it’s not because she’s female, it’s because she’s talented as a songwriter and as a vocalist.”

Talent is the first factor that catches your eyes (and ears) when listening to Tonight Alive. Another trait that is hard to ignore is how seasoned the band seems, even though they currently have released only one full length album. Whakaio accredits this to the band touring with each other for over 2 years now, making them a tight-knit group. Even so, Warped Tour is a whole other world and it’s obvious that the band is still riding on cloud nine. Whakaio adds that “It’s been two weeks and still it hasn’t worn off that we’re in this thing finally.”

Jenna’s face lights up when she mentions how excited she’s been for the entire experience and the fans that come out to the shows. “It’s nice to know that the people that are standing in front of us when we play are not waiting for the band that’s coming on next,” says Jenna, and she’s got a good point. For a freshman band to attract so much attention while on a tour with over 90 other musicians, I must say, it’s impressive.

The band has obviously put a lot of thought into their tours, their performances and their music, as Jenna and Whakaio describe the feelings behind their album, What Are You So Scared Of? Jenna states the album’s theme is a number of things, but mainly it hopes to ask others the question, “what’s holding you back?” For a first album, the idea of facing your fears head-on seems like the perfect theme. Whakaio adds that he wanted to “help those people that are…searching for something.” with Jenna adding in to “take chances.”

Maybe that’s why the album has been quite popular. It sounds like YOLO, only smarter and a little more relatable. And I’m loving that. What do you think?

Another reason why I like this band? They signed that poster that we’re giving away on the site! If you’re interested in winning it, make sure you check out the giveaways section.

Features, Music Videos, News, Reviews, Videos

Warped Pleasure of the Week: A party worth dying for

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Maybe the rough yet melodic rockers of Funeral Party were on to something when they named their band; when you listen to the monotone yet searing vocals of Chad Elliott over the melodic and sometimes dance worthy riffs behind the music, it’s hard to tell whether it’s a funeral or a party. Perhaps these LA natives strive for both, and that’s what makes their music interesting to hear.

It’s easy to tell why they became a cult hit in their local neighborhood, but you have to give them props for catching the ear of Lars Stalfors, a producer who has worked with the likes of The Mars Volta, Juliette Lewis, and Reel Big Fish. Factor in their own decision to get dropped from predominantly pop-punk Fearless Records (they were later signed with Sony), and it’s now up to Funeral Party to not only prove they can hack it mainstream, but also convince us of their sound.

Pseudo-pop and ironic clashes of genres are the next big thing, making Funeral Party pretty damn catchy, despite the lack of melody in Elliott’s vocals. But I’m waiting to see if they can take the energy-driven garage show and put it in a package that will make Sony Music proud.

On a completely unrelated note, their website is probably one of the coolest I’ve ever seen. But what do you think? Would you see them at Warped?

Features, Music Videos, News, Reviews, Videos

Warped Pleasure of the Week: Dead Sara

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It’s that time of year again boys and girls. Teenagers, PETA warriors, and one journalist-like, music loving blogger will be sweaty and dehydrated for the chance to see a handful of metal-core bands and one or two fairly awesome closers. But wait, don’t hate on Warped Tour just yet. I know it tends to be a biased music production, but with over 90 bands performing there is bound to be something for everyone — a few diamonds in the rough — which is why I’m highlighting some particularly shiny Guilty Pleasures of the Week for the rest of June.

I have to start with gruff, rough-around-the-edges rock group Dead Sara, because I have a weakness for female-fronted bands. And the first moment that I heard the unique vocals of Emily Armstrong part screaming, part singing over the powerful guitar riffs that are an ode to the nu metal style of the 90s, I was in love. Armstrong seems to channel the fiery rasp of Janis Joplin as she pours either pure emotion or raw energy (I can’t tell which one) into the lyrics “So go for the kill/’Cause no one else cares!” from the single “Weatherman”.

But don’t get me wrong, Armstrong is no Joplin. Armstrong is at times missing style and magnetism in her voice, causing some to say Dead Sara’s debut full length album as a whole falls a little flat.  Despite the huge growth spurt of the band, it’s probably going to be up to their live performances to convince audiences that they are definitely not a one-trick pony and have more to offer. (Just check out some of the meaningless heavy debate on the YouTube page for this video for more on how unconvinced a few people are.)

But… it is their first album. They are allowed a first album to put themselves out there and grow from here on out. Despite the lack of dynamic, I’m excited to see what they can pull out for their sophomore attempt. But what do you think? Do you think we’ll hear more from this band in the future?

Features, News, Videos

Guilty Pleasure of the Week: Cansei de Ser Sexy

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CSS logoPortuguese pseudo-pop band CSS is kind of a walking contradiction — in the best way possible. Lead singer Lovefoxxx has a witty tenacity for lyrics that play on the whole idea of the pop and dance music genre in general. And with a band name that translates in English to “tired of being sexy”, they’re surprisingly refreshing at times, both with their subject matter and their willingness to walk the thin line of downright bizarre.

Don’t believe me? Try checking out their song about Paris Hilton, which uses the word “bitch” about a million times. (Not an exaggeration…well, sort of an exaggeration.) Their latest single “City Grrrl” plays on the popular view of beauty in world-famous New York City, and gives a really smart insight into American pop culture from the eyes of an outsider. Witty — and you can dance to it. Think about that, or ignore the smart mumbo jumbo and just sing along.

 

Music Videos, News, Reviews, Videos

Guilty Pleasure of the Week: I’ve got a girl crush on Kimbra

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I’m pretty sure this counts as a girl crush. I daydream to this woman’s voice. I can’t stop listening to her lyrics! Though I have to admit, her accent is throwing me off and sometimes I have no idea what she’s saying. Who am I talking about? The lovely New Zealand talent Kimbra, that’s who.

Does she seem familiar? Perhaps you are one of the 48 million (and counting) who saw the famous video cover of Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know”, also known as five people playing one guitar. I saw that video. And I didn’t stop there. No, then I had to look up the original video, then I had to Google search the vixen that stole my heart with her cool cropped hair and amazing voice.

And what I found was Kimbra, a twenty something, jazz-inspired, Nina-Simone-possessed sensation who just recently dropped some goods for America in the form of an EP. And I really hope she catches on because her talent is undeniable, her style is a fresh new interpretation of jazz, and her adorable personality is completely contagious.

You’re so welcome. Also, ten points to everyone who spots the Kid Coolout in the video. Ten more points if you actually know who Kid Coolout is.

Music Videos, News, Reviews, Videos

Mraz: He’s like a fine wine…

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I swear I’ll get back to San Diego musicians very soon. Besides, he might not be from SD, but he does live here and that counts for something right? Jason Mraz, in my opinion, just gets better with age and his latest single proves this point. Forget calling him a “pop” musician, forget Geek in the Pink and his other forays into whimsical, light-as-air fluffy songs. Just sit back and enjoy the beautiful lyrics and the near perfect delivery of melody in Mraz’s latest single, “I Won’t Give Up On Us.”

For folk and indie lovers, it’s probably going to please you. For others, you might need a little bit more convincing. But the single does prove that Mraz may be harvesting an even more mature sound, and it definitely works for him. What do you think about this new single? Are you expecting a great fourth album to come from this?