12.28.13 Derek Webb Review

Hello music lovers!  It's been a long time, but I'm ready to get started again.

 

Derek Webb seems disgruntled

Twenty years in the music industry, with successful albums and a well established name as a musical maverick, have not dampened his ability to re-evaluate inconsistencies in his beliefs and to express those tumultuous questions through song. 

I recently had the chance to hear Mr. Webb play a show at the Walnut House, a stop on his Apology Tour. His candid honesty, coupled with his disapproval of Christianity's rapid polarization, create a stage ripe for passionate music with a reflective message.  To this end, Derek did not disappoint: his lilting voice, sometimes tremulous and sometimes exultant, poured over driving and ever inventive acoustic guitar, created an onstage energy that is decidedly rare in the singer-songwriter community (but not surprising for a veteran such as Webb).

Derek opened with the title track of his recently released 8th studio album “I was wrong, I’m sorry, and I love you”, and followed with music such as “Mockingbird” and “Reputation”. In many ways, Derek seemed to hit a segment of each part of his personal development, showcasing songs that spanned the breadth of his career.  The emotional high point of the night came, for me, with the plaintive “Closer Than you Think”.  An unconventional tune that contrasted Derek’s aggressive style, it nonetheless fit well with the themes of humility and re-connection of his Apology Tour.

 

Webb’s refreshing ability to both welcome a room and command it show both his growth as an artist, and his commitment to remaining humble.  The Apology tour hits the mark; Derek Webb is figuring himself out, and we continue to enjoy the fruits of his labor.

If you would like to hear some of Derek's music (which I would recommend) check it out here:

http://noisetrade.com/derekwebb

On a personal note, thanks for sticking with me. I'll get back in the swing of things soon enough...it's been a busy couple months.

Go find something you've never heard before. Trust me...it's rewarding. Then tell your friends about it. And while you're at it, tell them about Live, Loud, and Local!

Until next time,
Peace.

Josephine and the WIldfront Interview

What is up, my blog-reading, music loving fellow individuals!  

How is everybody's day going?

I am excited to tell you that after much delay, I am publishing an interview with a local band that I confess I am a huge fan of: Josephine and the Wildfront!  I had the opportunity to ask these three talented musicians some questions, and the best parts of our interactions are here.  

Jo&theWF is made up of (from left) drummer Preston Vaughn, frontwoman Josephine Moore, and Krista Glover on the keyboards/synths. 

The trio has been playing their instruments individually for years; in early 2012, however, the three began their first collaboration under the name Holy Coast.  Stylistically, Holy Coast didn't work out.  

"6 months ago, we decided to start playing Jo's old solo work", says Krista, "That's when we became the band we are today."

Drawing inspiration from groups with dark, ethereal synth tones (think Metric) and imagery filled lyrics, Jo&theWF use a collection of individual preferences and styles to create their unique and piercing sounds. 

Speaking of unique, I asked Josephine what makes her voice sound the way it does.  Does she do anything unorthodox?  "Lots of honey and whiskey!" was her reply.

Josephine and the Wildfront are excited about where they are going.  The group is busy creating new music, and preparing to go in a different direction than the tracks on their recently released EP Swallowed by the Ocean represent. 

 On a side note, Jo&theWF will be playing tomorrow night (August 31) at the Demonbreun Blockbuster, an all day event. Josephine and the Wildfront start at 5:15 at South...it will be a great show!

This trios's star is on the rise, supported by great music and vital 4th meal-fueled midnight practices.  

If you get the chance, definitely check out Josephine and the WIldfront playing somewhere near you! 

8.14.13. Great Shows Last Weekend!

Hello valued readers!  It has been a busy couple days for all of us, with school and music all roaring to life at once (or so it seems).

I saw mostly great shows, one NOT great show, and one PHENOMENAL show this last weekend, and I wanted to tell you all about them.

Highlight:  The opening night of Lightning 100's Live On The Green was absolutely amazing.  Gin Wicmore, ZZ Ward (whom I had never heard but was definitely impressed with), and Matt & Kim all brought great sound and even better energy to the stage.  Matt & Kim's set was especially thrilling, with balloons and crowd surfers flying in equal numbers. Also, I couldn't have asked for better weather.

If you get the opportunity to attend any of the LOTG shows, I suggest you take it. 

It's free, and the sound is always very good.  

Check out a full lineup: http://www.liveonthegreen.net/lineup/schedule 

Moving right along, I headed over Saturday night to the Josephine and the Wildfront EP release party at Little Shop of Records.  

Thats My Kid, She Lin Wolf, and JoandtheWF all gave quality performances, as well as a special guest performance by Josphine's producer, DJ Rob.  Though the setting was a little awkward, the music was without a doubt stellar.  You can check out 2 of these Middle Tennessee-based bands here:

https://www.facebook.com/josephineandthewildfront/app_2405167945

https://www.facebook.com/thatsmykidmusic/app_178091127385

To close out the night, I headed to the Ascent to hear Dear Salem, another local, 4 piece band.  They sounded wonderful (per usual), with a great mix both of styles and actual live sound. I am really looking forward to hearing them play larger venues...they certainly have the talent. take a listen to their sound here: 

https://www.facebook.com/dearsalem/app_2405167945.  More to come on those guys!

Lowlight:  Monday night at 3 Brothers, I had the misfortune of hearing FLUMMOX for the first time.  FLUMMOX was...interesting. they started late, ran much longer than they should have, and were plagued with a number of difficulties ranging anywhere from squid hats falling off, to broken equipment, and then finally to the nadir of an onstage nip slip.  Needless to say, I was not impressed.  Not to discredit the individual music abilities of these guys; I'm sure they are all talented.  But the product was less than stellar and, quite often, laughable.

The night brightened, however, when Portland, Oregon-based band Insomniac Folklore took the stage.  The group, who's goal is to "make people think, and be aware" mixes quaint presentation, walking bass, twangy guitar and a stomp box to produce an altogether enjoyable sound.  

All in all, they were a solid finish to what was a overall a very enjoyable musical weekend. 

On a more personal note, I wanted to thank each of you who take the time to read my writing and recommend it to your peers.  I have had almost 300 reads in 3 posts, and I am obviously very excited by the response.  Keep reading, keep recommending, keep loving music yo.  Also, (as always) feel free to suggest shows to me, as well as music.  I'll give it a listen.  Until next time!

1933 Interview

Hello, valued readers!  You are reading the latest from Live, Loud, & Local, an up-and-coming music blog based in Murfreesboro.  This update centers around 1933, a self described Americana/Indie/Rock group from here in middle Tennessee.

Recently, I was asked to describe what 1933 sounded like.  What I came up with, well, didn't make any sense.

So I tried again., and what I got was if the Strokes and the Black Keys had a kid, and then gave it to Kings of Leon to raise, that person is where 1933 is headed.

Maybe I'm over thinking this.

1933 (Which refer's to the year Prohibition ended)  consists of frontman Julien Smith, drummer Josh Kincaid, bassist Ryan Mclemore, and lead guitarist Kyle Mcgee.  The group, known for its antique look as much as its music, has been a work in progress for a number of years, with members coming in and leaving on an almost tryout basis.  However, the most current "lineup" of 1933 has a dynamic vibe and an exciting live performance that showcases their sound.


 1933 has a  musical style that is simultaneously easy to follow and catchy while still being solidly put together and thoughtful. I asked the guys about when things clicked (the "a-ha" moment, if you will) for 1933, and they told me that, while there is a definite competitiveness to the group's music making, "When we all sign off on a song, it becomes something special".

1933 is gaining momentum, both locally and on a more national stage.  On August 11th, the group is playing a show at Rocketown as part of the Evolution Music Tour. 

 Tickets are $15 dollars...to purchase one, get in touch with 1933 at:

https://www.facebook.com/1933theband. 

 In addition, 1933 plans to release an EP in the upcoming months...keep checking in and I'll let you know what I find out about project.

Recently, I have been considering the merits of a shoulder/upper arm tattoo. I asked drummer Josh Kincaid, who conveniently already is a proud owner of such a tattoo, for his thoughts.  His response?  "Nothing is worse than having to call an audible because plan 'A' fell through".  

I have to confess that I have no idea what he was trying to tell me; it sounded...ominous.  

One thing I do know, however, is that 1933 continues to refine its sound and communicate to listeners in a loud and powerful way.  I will definitely be keeping an eye on these guys as they make their way forward, and I wish them the best of luck.

8.3.13: Upcoming

What is up, my fellow music lovers/readers/homies!

I have been away, visiting my dear Grandmother, and I haven't had internet access for a while.  I just wanted to give you all a quick update on what's coming up in the next couple weeks.  I've been in touch with local bands (1933 and Josephine & the Wildfront, to name a few), getting to know a bit about them and their music.  The interesting parts of our talks are in the pipe, so to speak...keep checking in and you'll learn some cool stuff, yo.

In addition, there happen to be quite a few shows coming up that I plan to check out:

August 8th-  Matt & Kim at Live on the Green (yes, yes, I know they aren't local.  But, they are loud and live...2/3's just fine, I think)
August 10th- Josephine and the Wildfront EP release party at Little Shop of Records
August 11th- 1933 at Rocketown
August 17th- Mize and the Drive at Mayday Brewery

I'm looking forward to hearing these groups.  For a full list of upcoming local shows, check outhttp://boropulse.com/calendar/

Finally, I wanted to add ...Get in touch with me!  I'm always looking for bands to hear and meet, as well as shows to see. post a comment, or feel free to email me at maxjfarley@gmail.com

Keep looking for updates everybody!  Tell your friends, tell your enemies, tell your (gasp) parents.  I'll be back before you know it.

7.30.13

Well...Here it is.  My first foray into the world of blogging.

In case you don't know what you are reading, this is a new music blog from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, called Live, Loud, & Local.  My goal here is to spread the word about local music/bands as well as dig deeper and find out what makes their music, well, their own.  Also, I am going to be reviewing live shows in and around Murfreesboro.

A bit about myself: My name is Max Farley, and I am a rising senior at Siegel High School.  My passions are rooted in both music and writing, and I am hoping to continue to showcase these as I grow.  I have played and been around music my entire life (Choirs, bands, smaller ensembles, etc.) and I've always enjoyed watching fellow musicians perform.  As far as genres go, my favorite's are Alternative Rock and Folk music. I am, however, a lover of music in general, and if the sound is good, than it doesn't matter what it's called.


I hope that you, dear reader, will continue to absorb what I write and tell your friends about what I do.  This is gonna be trial and error for me, I promise; stick around though! You might even learn something.  I know I will.