Cover photo: The Riot Before's bassist Cory Manning. Photo by Megan Wagner. Cover design by Heather Dance.
Cover!
Local Music Rocks!
Cover photo: The Riot Before's bassist Cory Manning. Photo by Megan Wagner. Cover design by Heather Dance.
Spotlight33
Another Great Night at the Nile
After grabbing a beer and a bite to eat at Cally's, Harrisonburg's local brew-pub, Sherry and I meandered over to the Blue Nile where the opening band was setting up. The set was starting late because one of the groups, Arms & Sleepers, had van trouble and was stuck north of the Mason-Dixon line for the night.
After a few beers, the opening band started their sound check; a few extra-loud power chords and they were ready to go. The guitar let loose a screaming note that could've 
shattered glass: a call to the despondent death dance. The band fell into driving, heavy metal with unintelligible shouting and a feeling of rhythmic chaos. By the second song, my ears were ringing.
This was A Cosmonaut's Ruin. Although, admittedly, metal is not really my style, I have been trying to appreciate it more, and this Charlottesville-based group certainly got my attention. I caught myself vigorously nodding my head quite a few times. I definitely enjoyed their set. I may have been the only one who noticed, and a music geek like me might be the only one who would care, but their last song began in 5/4+7/4 meter, just proving that these metal-heads are true musicians. I look forward to hearing them again soon. 
After A Cosmonaut's Ruin tore down, the main event was up: Caspian. This Massachusetts band (along with their unlucky counterparts, Arms & Sleepers) are currently on their North American tour and we were lucky enough to have them stop by Harrisonburg. Caspian is made up of Calvis Joss (guitar), Philip Jamieson (guitar, programming, samples), Erin Burke-Moran (guitar), Joe Vickers (drums), and Chris Friedrich (bass). When asked what genre they considered their unique music, they said that, for the ease of classification, "If we're anything, we're post-rock," even though they consider themselves a straight-up rock band.
Caspian is continuing on with their North American tour for the rest of the spring and then embarking on a European tour. They hope to return to Virginia when they come back to the states. They mentioned that another tour with the Irish band, God is an Astronaut, is in the works and they hope to bring them back to Virginia with them in September.
Caspian's set opened with a recorded free-form poem, fading into their unique, ambient, driving rock. No lyrics, just music. 
Powerful music. It has been a long time since I've felt such a range of emotion while listening to a live band. The music was a cry for help, for love, but it had that soft, gentle undertone of hope. A quiet reassurance that everything will turn out okay. Caspian's show was the rock equivalent of Miles Davis' album "Kind of Blue." Despite the instrumental virtuosity, it gives you an overall feeling of calm and relaxation. It's quite a paradox: like being blown by a strong wind on top of a mountain. You are in peril because you could lose your balance at any second and fall to your death, but it is such a feeling of peace: a breath of fresh air if you will. And that is exactly what Caspian is to today's music scene - a breath of fresh air. I wish them the very best of luck with their career and can't wait until they return to Virginia.
The Harrisonburg-based band, Gifts from Enola closed the show. They are also strictly instrumental and much heavier than Caspian. It was the first time I had heard them, but they did not disappoint. They are definitely the crowd pleasers as well. At the end of their set the crowd began chanting "One more song . . .
Unfortunately, they didn't consent to the crowd's pleas, but we can rest assured that they will be back again soon.
Overall, another great show at the Blue Nile. This venue is quickly becoming my favorite in Virginia. I have yet to see anything but amazing bands there, and the bartenders and staff are really chill. If you are ever passing through the Burg, I highly suggest checking this place out.
Spotlight33
Secret Agent T
The original Secret Agent T was formed six years ago by Andrew Hassler (bass) and Joseph Gearheart (guitar/vocals). Originally inspired by the minimalist rock movement, the original Secret Agent T set out with the goal of pushing the boundaries of what a two-person band could accomplish. After several shows and an EP entitled Fill The Bucket, the duo took a hiatus for several months, during which Andrew and Joseph busied themselves studying at their respective schools. During this hiatus Joseph was lucky enough to stumble upon drummer David Hopkins, completing the line-up and prompting a reformation as a power trio.
After several years of honing their craft in basements and bars, Secret Agent T has become a force of pure rock and roll to be reckoned with. Their debut EP At the Tone was released in mid-February 2010. Recorded with Lexington, Virginia producer Jeremy Leadbetter with additional input from Hassler, At the Tone captures the nuances of Secret Agent T's explosive live presence. With Gearheart's raunchy, buzz-saw guitars and a rhythm section with enough raw power to put an atomic bomb to shame, At the Tone proves to be one of the dirtiest, loudest, and most ass-kicking rock albums you'll hear this year.
33: How did your band Secret Agent T form?
Joseph: I had been playing in a four piece in high school, and we were around four months and that fell through. We were pretty much bored and just Andrew and myself played and we called it Secret Agent T and then David joined. David and Joseph went to Radford together. We all studied music.
33: What made you decide to make music?
Andrew: I chose music because I was in a four story building, and the music department was on the bottom floor and English was on the top, and it was a hot day.
33: Where did you come up with the name Secret Agent T?
A: I found it on an old thermos from the 70s.
33: Do you guys have any albums out, and if so where can they be bought?
SAT: At The Tone is the latest album. Contact us on MySpace or Facebook or come to a show.
33: What other musicians have you worked with?
SAT: Nobody that anyone would know.
33: Do you guys plan on playing with any other local bands in the area?
SAT: We keep trying to.
33: What are your musical influences?
SAT: Radiohead, the Pixies, the Beatles, King Crimson, electronica, hip-hop stuff, Run-DMC, 90s alternative stuff.
33: Are you guys from Harrisonburg?
SAT: Not originally from here.
33: What made you choose rock 'n' roll?
SAT: Never tried anything else. I don't think we could play anything else and be okay with it.
33: Have you guys played instruments your whole life?
A & J: Didn't start playing until 8th grade.
David: I took piano lessons. My first drum kit was a Smurf.
33: Have you guys ever played at any festivals?
SAT: No, not yet.
33: Do you guys write your own lyrics? If so, who is the songwriter of the band?
A: Joseph does it.
J: David and I collaborate.
33: What can you tell your fans who would also like to be musicians?
A: Listen to everything as much as possible.
J: Abstinence is the best policy.
D: Have people that you admire, but follow your own path, create instead of just mimic.
33: Do you have a message for your fans?
SAT: Take everything we say with a grain of salt.
Spotlight33
Winter Wonder Jam
The Winter Wonder Jam, hosted by a series of volunteers, teachers, artists, and musicians who were willing to contribute their time to raising money for Park Street Academy, took place at Fry Springs Beach Club on March 6. Performing bands included the Rick Olivarez Trio, the Wave, Sun Dried Opossum, the Rogan Brothers Band, Chickenhead Blues Band, Eli Cook, Matt Horn, and Book of Job. The music was exceptional, and I really enjoyed listening to a variety of live musicians for such a dignified reason. 
Volunteers associated with the Park Street Academy included Eli Cook, an exceptional guitarist, and George Andrews, a phenomenal artist. There were paintings, food, and other works for sale in hope of raising funds for the Academy.
As I educated myself about Park Street Academy, I was very much impressed by the mission statement, which reads, "Our 
vision is to create a school to nurture the talents, creativity, and spirit of young people through excellent teaching and character development."
It is a private, nonprofit school for grades 9-12 and integrates traditional academics with the fine arts. Fry Springs Beach Club vision statement states, "As a social organization, Fry Springs Beach Club promotes recreational, social, athletic, literary, and educational activities for the benefit of its members and their guests."
With such a union and the amazing band lineup, I was in for a major night of community camaraderie, stellar live music, and the memorable reverberations that I will never forget.
As I arrived at Fry Springs Beach Club, I checked my watch and it read 3:15 PM. When I rolled into my hotel that evening at 1:30 AM I was exhausted, but the night's experience was indeed well worth it. Each band added its own flavor and layered the evening extraordinarily well with the other bands influence. The venue provided the most relaxed scene I have ever attended because there was plenty of space, a nice stage setting, and a diverse crowd that took its pace. The evening was softly lined with playing children, yet still party friendly. As the evening progressed from early to late, soft to hard, nice to naughty, the night transformed along with the music. I had an intense ten and a half hours of assorted events that fit many of my elemental moods and gave me one hell of a night. I enjoyed seeing the night start off soft and chill; however, later that night the lovers emerged and the bands started feeding off the energy of the saucy adults in the crowd.
The Wave kicked off the night as the young, exuberant talent that included a sax and "that" consistent girl drummer, Avery S. The Rick Olivarez Trio gave romantic, dueling acoustic renditions, and Sun Dried Opossum as always stunned me as one of the most magnetic trios to be found in this area.
The Rogan Brothers were next and provided their beat that made everyone immediately start dancing and getting in tune with the groove of the moment. 
When Chickenhead Blues Band took to the stage, their funky punch enticed everyone, getting the adults to break out and loosen up. Eli Cook started afterward with a performance of his gritty, sexy voice, along with his electric proficiency upon his guitar that made everyone feel gritty and sexy as well. The energy of the crowd, at this point, definitely started to heat up. Matt Horn and the impressive accompanying horn section along with Andy Rowland from the Chickenhead Blues Band, urged everyone to seriously get "back in the game," and take it to an entirely different level.
Book of Job sealed the intensity of the night, when they concluded the Winter Wonder Jam with a rock and roll hammer! It was a party for the music lovers that lingered until the end, and I was seriously impressed with the energy after such an intense evening. All the girls were swooning over the good-looking band, and the entire fundraiser could not have ended any less perfectly.
As I walked around that evening, I encountered a man name Ed who spoke very highly of the efforts of the Park Street Academy and Fry Springs Beach Club's endeavors. "It's all about the children," he said, which was a verbal confirmation on the apparent efforts that it took to host the Winter Wonder Jam.
Everything from the excited children and the homemade cookies to the rockin' energy of the bands and their killer musical compositions exuded care and consideration. It was a pleasure and an honor to be apart of an experience where the music soared and gave birth to a righteous cause. The music captured me, and I felt the special nature of the Charlottesville music scene. Charlottesville music connoisseurs give me a feeling of hopeful pride. It was incredibly important for everyone that Fry Springs, the bands, and local volunteers worked so well together. They deserve more recognition that I can give.
I hope readers will contribute in any fashion to either Park Street Academy or Fry Springs Beach Club. That night is etched in the minds of both myself and my photographer, Michael Ponzini - talking about music, having a couple beers, and enjoying each band that graced us with their infinite talents and energy. I thank you very much for letting me be apart of such a worthwhile, community endeavor. I wish Park Street Academy and Fry Springs the best.
For further information on Park Street Academy, contact Vanessa@parkstreetacademy.org
Spotlight33
A Straight Punch to the Crotch Never Felt So Good
Let's not pretend that a straight punch to the crotch sounds appealing. In fact, I can think of little else less enticing. That said, when first I learned of the band whose show I would be attending, I resigned myself to an aural assault by screaming, off-pitch "vocalists" and over zealous guitarists. If we have heard it once, we have heard it a million times: do not judge a book by its cover. Straight Punch to the Crotch transcended its ominous name and delivered, on every level, a very pleasant experience.
First and foremost: bravo to Aly Buchanan, Straight Punch's resident horn player. Never was a group of instruments so underrated. In this, the day of drum machines and studio magic, we tend sometimes to forget the inestimable value of more "traditional" musical elements, i.e. horns. Straight Punch to the Crotch embraces rock, soul, funk, and yes, even Irish sensibilities, and Buchanan plays a significant role in formulating the band's unique sound. Buchanan displays solid technical ability, but her charm lies more in the personality she injects into each song. A horn player decorates music like no one else can, and Buchanan proves no exception.
Secondly, whoever opted to utilize backup singers deserves a big "Thank you!" Their inclusion alone augmented the band's already full sound, but I wish they had asserted themselves more. We may call them backup singers for a reason, but the two women can afford to make their presence a little more known. When they did surface, however, they completed a song's vocals. While listening to the radio, I often find myself pining after a simple harmony - I'd settle for some "ooos" and "aaas." I encourage the two women to amp up their volume, but that aside, Straight Punch left me more satiated than most modern music.
Despite periodic vocal timidity, at no moment did the band fail to perform. Nothing kills a live show more than anti-social musicians, and nothing makes ticket buyers feel more as though they have wasted their money. Straight Punch engaged its audience and the audience responded in kind. The lead vocalist's zeal did not waver song after song, and the rest of the band kept pace with its front man. Great performers carry on a conversation with the crowd, and Straight Punch has mastered the communicative give and take that lends itself to a successful performance. Furthermore, they danced! No one on that stage displayed a shred of self-consciousness or hesitation, and such infectious confidence further fueled the enthusiastic crowed.
You know you have impacted a local scene when more than three people in the audience know the words to your songs. The band may not have drawn quite so large a crowd as the headliners, Kings of Belmont, but the audience in attendance seemed genuinely loyal and supportive. A Straight Punch virgin myself, I nevertheless felt strongly as if I had stumbled into a large, somewhat drunk family. I still puzzle over how these 50+ people all seemed to know, and in fact, be friends with, one another. Whether there is any truth to that statement, the fact remains that for every band member there were five audience members who knew his/her name. One cannot put a price tag on fans like this. If Straight Punch can stand out in Charlottesville where you cannot walk down the street without tripping over another local artist, its future may be very bright indeed.
Spotlight33
Haiti Relief Fundraiser
With the recent earthquake that caused massive destruction and heartbreak, it was such an honor that Durty Nellies hosted a fundraiser in light of the tragic circumstances that befell Haiti. On Valentine's Day, Durty Nellies provided the scene for bands to play and raise money for Haiti's disaster relief. The bands included The Ryalls Brothers with Skip Haga, The Chickenhead Blues Band with a guest appearance by Eli Cook, the Two Kings, PTF, and the Brian Patrick Band. Each performance was specialized and completely amazing. The mood started out of rhythmic and funky, while soaring around rock and roll and ending on a bluesy, Americana note.
I had never been to Durty Nellies, although I had heard several times it was a Charlottesville staple. That being the case, I had no idea what to expect that evening. What I found was an old-school music venue and deli that exuded down home charm, as well as community closeness that oozed from the darkened walls of this flavorful little pub.
I left with an impression of true compassion to fellow human beings around the world, which was refreshing. It was exactly what I needed. Many think that in order to help others, you have to think of yourself first. If you have problems then you are simply unable to focus on another set of problems, therefore making little effort to aid when others are in trouble. However, this rule does not apply if you consider yourself part of a worldwide family where everyone's problems are a universal concern. This "impression" I observed was neither forced nor an inconvenience for anyone present that evening. Everyone enjoyed the music in a comfortable and relaxed setting, giving way to a true musical immersion that rang through with rumbling excitement.
Durty Nellies was bustling that night until its conclusion, with a consistent flow of traffic, a diverse fan base, and a sense of accord that has been long since overdue. Each band played with exceptional ease and enthusiasm. Whether or not you were alone or in a group, everyone contributed an attitude of enjoyment.
With the many tragedies of our world lately, any contribution to a noble cause is not only profoundly necessary, but instills a sense of pride for the citizens that chose to participate in such an event. I am proud to say I was there, doing whatever I could in this small corner of the world, trying to state with my actions my concern for our planets welfare and all its occupants. With the people that attended the Haiti Relief Fundraiser that night, I hope that the awareness of relief and responsibility to our society spreads everywhere, and that we consider our well-being a reflection on how we react to the needs of others that are less fortunate. Tragedy and loss extends to various parts of our world, and it should weigh on every conscience to take the time to make movements of goodwill and contribute hope whenever possible. We sometimes forget in our busy lives that a simple act of human kindness echoes future harmony in every manner of our being. I hope to see more of this, alongside the comfort that music brings, in turn giving ourselves the chance for universal peace and accountability. Music is a universal outlet that provides empathy and hope to us all in times of disparity. I am writing this review specifically to Durty Nellies, the people responsible for hosting the Haiti Relief Fundraiser, and to the participating bands that offered the salvation of musical inspiration to us all. Thank you for caring and for helping those whom you have never met. This reflects your moral standing, and I offer my deepest feelings of gratitude and appreciation to have witnessed this alongside the exceptional music that I witnessed!
Take care, and God bless you! If you have any desire to be part of the Haiti Relief Project, please visit www.SamaritansPurse.org/Haiti.
Spotlight33
The Smell of Death
I recently caught up with the Smell of Death in their recording studio. Band members include Khris "with a 'K' for KILL!" (vocals), Patrick Doom (lead guitar), Brother Dave (bass), Cousin Adventure (guitar), and Beard Fist (drums). This is a group of guys that enjoy their music and have fun but take what they do seriously. Some of their fans even showed up during rehearsal to watch them perform and work on recording their new album.
They put on a great show and are sure to make your face melt, which is exactly what they're going for. If you love heavy metal, this is a band you surely have to see. They give off incredible energy with each performance. As far as shows go, right now you can catch these guys playing at the Darjeeling Café in Staunton, Virginia.
They are basically immortals that have fought in most every battle you can imagine. They said the Smell of Death was a power given to them by a deity.
33: Why did you decide to make music?
Khris: We got bored and decided to make metal. We wanted to make metal that didn't suck. When we play we want people's faces to melt.
33: Who are your musical inspirations?
The Smell of Death: Judas Priest, Ronnie James Dio, Man O' War, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots.
33: How did the band form?
Khris: After work we just decided to play metal. We were just kinda playing around and then found a drummer who left, and we had to keep finding drummers.
Cousin Adventure: I was originally in a different band and saw these guys plays and broke my nose in a mosh pit and was immediately hooked. I loved the energy of their shows, and I always wanted to play 
something that was heavier.
33: Where did the name come from?
Khris: I thought it sounded pretty cool, and when you smell death it has a distinct smell. It sounded a lot better than some of the names you hear.
33: Do you write your own lyrics?
Khris: Yes, except Cousin wrote the lyrics to one song.
Cousin Adventure: We combined efforts on the song. Khris does the majority of the lyrical writing. We all have equal say in the band.
Khris: No one says shit to me though 'cause I'll punch them in the face.
Beard Fist: We all have the same thing in our head.
33: Do you guys all play instruments?
Cousin Adventure: Pat and I do the bass.
Patrick Doom: Everyone plays instruments in the band.
33: What has been your favorite place to perform?
The Smell of Death: The Darjeeling Cafe.
33: What other musicians have you worked with?
The Smell of Death: The Cinnamon Band, the Static Machine, the Viccas.
33: Do you plan on playing with any other local bands or singers in the area?
The Smell of Death: Yeah, anybody who can perform a good rock show and put up with rude people and rude lyrics. The biggest thing we are trying to bring to the area is a real energetic, fun, scary metal show. Our goal is to melt faces.
Beard Fist: We played "Sweet Home Alabama," and that is what got the crowd moving.
Cousin Adventure: Playing is a lot of fun, and we want to continue to have a lot of fun.
33: Where can we see you perform?
The Smell of Death: Darjeeling Café
Khris: It's hard to get gigs around here unless you play songs that are on 98.5.
33: What can we see from you in the future?
The Smell of Death: Lots of face melting, lots of cuss words.
33: Do you have any albums coming out?
The Smell of Death: Yes, in about an hour we are going to start working on our album.
33: Anything you'd like to say to your fans?
The Smell of Death: Please come to our shows. Wear an extra pair of socks because we will surely rock the first pair off of you.
33: Any advice you can give to young musicians?
The Smell of Death: Smoke weed, drink beer, write shit that rules.