Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Lisa Loeb

The artist that I am with today is one that I am positive you have heard at one time or another. She has been hanging around the music industry for quite some time and with a recent move to the indie market she is back on her way to the top. Not looking a day older than she did when she first hit the scene years ago, her lyrics have gotten better, he voice has become more polished, and I am excited to see what it next for her career. This is a special treat for the Indyconcerts.com following. With her hit single Stay always ringing in my ears, I am pleased to introduce to you the lovely Lisa Loeb.

How long have you been performing?

Since I was like four or five years old. It was something I always did growing up. It was actually integrated in the school that I went to in Dallas. We had a lot of dance and singing classes.

When did you first realize that you wanted to be a full time musician?

It was just something that happened. But the time that I was in college it was something I was just following into. When I was in high school it was something that I was just really in to. My friends and I would interview bands and I had a radio show on the FM dial. I played in bands and collected records. It was something that I was always interested in while taking music lessons. I committed to it after college and when I was trying to figure out what I was doing. I just wanted to continue it and make it a real profession.

What is the biggest crowd that you have ever played for?

I have played so many festivals. I would say 50,000. I played at Fuji Rock in Japan. I have played Madison Square Garden and some outdoor festivals that were pretty huge. I do not play for hundreds of thousand o f people normally.

The smallest?

I would say at someone’s home. People have hired me to play in their homes and offices. But the smallest shows happen with things like that.

Do you write all of your own lyrics?

No; I did a lot of songwriting but I do a lot of my writing with other people.

Where do you get inspiration for a new song?

I don’t know. It just hits me in different times and places. It can be at the grocery store or while I am driving. It can happen while I am sleeping, or even when I am sitting down to write a song.

Tell me about Camp Lisa.

It is a record that I put together that I wrote with some friends of mine in LA. It is actual summer camp songs that I used to sing when I was growing up. I just love summer camps and I wanted to share it with other people. I wanted to share it with those that go to or have never been to summer camp as well. I started an organization so that the produces go to benefit summer camps.

Do you have any thoughts on a tour this year?

I am actually spending a lot of time in LA. I am in the process of working on a number of projects. We are in the process of recording more songs for some kids books that will be out next year. I am also working on a regular grown up album. I am developing a couple of kids TV shows. I have some live shows coming up but to do all those projects I have to stay in one place.

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

MySpace is great. It allows musicians to, and people, to connect with each other. It helps can help you share your music, develop an audience, find your audience, find other people and what they are doing. It is cheap. You can do things that used to take more time, energy and effort. I think it’s a great tool.

Are you on Twitter?

Yes, I am. I am lisaloeb4real. I guess it sounds like a fake name but it really is me.

So do you only have one pair of those glasses?

I usually wear one primary pair of glasses. I am designing a line so I have three prototypes of the glasses I am designing with me. I am also designing some sunglasses. If I find one pair that I like I wear them for a few years. But recently I have been working on the eyewear line so I am checking out colors, styles, etc. I look for the changes we need to make.

What is your first memory of the guitar?

I remember learning Stairway to Heaven at summer camp. It is a fun funny song to learn but it is a good song.

If you could tour with anyone on the market today whom would you choose?

That is a good question. I have not thought about that. Coldplay is a great band. They have a good audience too. That is a really good question. Chris Isaac and the Indigo Girls all have great crowds. They are really great artists. They like to listen to the bands that they didn’t come to see. It is a good community backstage.

Tell me about your television show on E!

I did a reality show called #1 Single. I wanted to share the process of what it is like being a career person in her 30s balancing relationships and a career. We were able to put together some pilots to see if I wanted to do it. As one of the producers we were able to create a show that represents what people actually go through. It was a good story to tell.

What is like being from Dallas?

It was a variety of things. On one hand growing up in Texas is great because people have a dry sense of humor and are straightforward. But on the other hand in the 80s it was a conservative time. There were very conservative people there. I felt like a fish out of water. I am not a super conservative person. And although you knew when you were with your artist friends. I don’t know if we merited needing to be on the outside. When I moved to New York City, and went to college at Brown University I felt normal. Everyone was interested in a lot of things. It made it easier to do and be who I was without it being strange.

Tell me about Furious Rose Productions.

It is my production company. It is named after a song that I wrote called Furious Rose. It is also the name of a painting that a friend did for me. She discussed a painting called Furious Rose around the same time I was making the song.

Do you ever forget the lyrics to your own songs?

Yeah, I do. It becomes like riding a bike. You sometimes can’t remember what you are doing. It can be hard if you think too hard about it. They disappear from your breaking. Luckily audience members remind me of them. And there is always the jacket of the CD. Most of those have the lyrics on them.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?

That exact thing. I was on stage with a string group that I have put together. They were reading the sheet music and I was playing a few songs at a Lilith Fair one off show, and I had only been in London one day, and I was on stage and I was in the middle of the song and I totally blanked out. It was like slow motion. I was like, “Oh my gosh, where am I?” The string quartet kept playing but they were in a repetitive part of the song. It was very embarrassing. I am not sure anyone else even caught it. But for me it was bizarre.

Your huge hit, Stay, was in a major motion picture. Tell me what that was like.

It is cool. The first time that it happened was really exciting. It was the biggest thing that had happened in the commercial world. I had some on promotions, etc. It was the first big deal and they played the entire song. It was really exciting.

Who does all your graphic design work?

We choose different artists for different album covers. I work with Bill Merryfield who is the director. I sit down with him and talk to him about what I am looking for. I always have a specific vision of what I want for each album. I discuss which illustrators I want to work with. Each album cover had a different story. My second album cover was from a famous illustrator from the fifties and sixties. He changes one of his original paintings into me. We have taken photos and had people paint them. For the most recent one we had a 14 year old, who left summer camp, to help us out and do all the illustrations. We worked together on all of it is a collaborative process. We find it based on the kind of art work we are looking for.

So what did Bobby Flay make you for dinner?

I do know Bobby Flay. He has treated us at different restaurants in Vegas and New York. My favorite is his place in Manhattan. He does the beat seafood cocktails. They have three different ones and they are really delicious. He is really nice and always hooks my family up.

Are you a true Hello Kitty fan?

Yes I am. I actually just made rice in my Kitty Fan rice cooker.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

With kids and still making books. I think that I want to be very involved in nutrition and cooking and having kids.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

For being a good person. I want to be considered a good friend, a good wife, and a good family member.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

People should check out the music. People stop me all the time and ask if I am still making music. There are tons of video out there and you should check it out to see what is happeneing.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Four2Three

Today I am hanging out with a set of guys that deserve some attention. These guys have an upbeat tap your toes attitude and match that with incredible writing. Not to mention their ability to sound like they just walked off the stage at Warped Tour. A group that brings talent, education, and drive to their music and lyrics I am sitting with Four to Three today.

Where did the name come from?

We used to play in a band called Waiting for April from 2002-2004 and there were four members. When the three of us started this band we called it four to three because we went from four members to three members.

How did you guys meet?

We all went to the same elementary and high school together.

How long have you all known each other?

Rob and Greg have been friends since the age of seven and started hanging out with Matt, who is two years younger, when they were seventeen and he was fifteen.

When did you realize that music was something you wanted to pursue?

In high school, after learning to play instruments and playing in front of people for the first time at talent shows we realized it was something we wanted to do for the rest of our lives.

Do you guys have jobs outside of music?

Yes, we all have outside jobs to pay bills. Matt is a hair colorist at a salon. Greg works at a liquor store. And Rob is a substitute teacher.

Describe your genre in one word.

Energy.

Tell me the meaning behind that teddy bear.

The teddy bear has little to no significance to us. We asked our album artwork designer to create an album cover with a picture of us and some live shots. However, he completely ignored our wishes and took this awesome picture of a seemingly drunk teddy bear and we absolutely loved it.

Where are you guys originally from?

We are all from Franklin Square, Long Island.

Where can I get a copy of that album?

Our albums are available on our website (www. fourtothree. com), CDBaby. com, and iTunes.

What is the largest crowd that you have ever played for?

The largest crowd we’ve played for was about five hundred people.

The smallest?

At our first show, there were about 30 people there, although no one was paying attention to us. We also played a show where four people showed up.

Any tattoos in the band?

Matt and Rob have tattoos. Matt has a half sleeve of Link from The Legend of Zelda fighting Gannon on his right arm, and the TriForce in the middle of his upper back. Rob has the word DREAM on his lower back (tramp stamp), a cross on his right arm, the Chinese symbol for courage on his wrist, the Chinese symbol for Mother over his heart, the OM symbol on the inside of his left bicep, Rafael’s cherubs on his left arm with DESTINO under it, and a heart on his left ring finger.

Who has the most?

Rob.

Who designed your awesome MySpace page?

Aaron McCall, who also was the mastermind behind the teddy bear.

What is your favorite venue to play?

Ollie’s Point in Amityville, Long Island.

What would you be doing if not music?

The guy at Burger King with the little headset.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

Plain. Maybe some sausage.

What was your favorite subject in school?

Recess.

If you could tour with anyone right now whom would it be?

Blink 182 reunion tour.

Let’s say you are about to headline at Madison Square Garden. Who is your opener?

The Beatles reborn.

What is your favorite song to play?

I’d Rather Eat Dirt off our new EP. And we cover the theme song from “Hey Dude.”

Ever forget the lyrics to your own tracks?

No.

Who is the ringleader of the group?

We all share the responsibilities of being in a band.

PC or Mac?

PC.

Any rituals you go through before a gig?

Just laughing a lot.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

A bowl of Golden Grams. A sesame bagel.

Do you sleep with that teddy bear? (Laughs)

We have actually never seen the teddy bear in person. We one day hope to meet and caress him.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Living in a van down by the river.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

Being an actual band. Who records songs that they can actually play live. And who doesn’t follow the current musical trends.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Stop.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Jethro Easyfields

The guy that I am with today is a local legend of sorts. Having first met him at the Indianapolis hot spot for local and undiscovered talent, Locals Only, I knew immediately that he had talent that I had to share. Bringing a sound that Springsteen fans will fall in love with and a set of lyrics that come from nothing but real life experiences, he matches it all with a folk rock attitude. Sit with me today as I introduce to you Indianapolis based Jethro Easyfields.

So is Jethro Easyfields your real name?

If Jethro Easyfields was not my name I believe I couldn't answer these questions honestly.

How long have you been performing?

I have been performing since 1985-1988. These were my breakout years. I used to do mock live shows for my family using my Casio keyboard and sing songs like, "Why Don't You Stop Buggin' Me?" and "I Love Potatoes" then in 1988, I started performing at the Troubadour Lounge at St. Francis College singing songs like "Skate Like An Alien" and "Killer Bees Killed My Lover"...by 1990 I was playing in bars in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Where do you get inspiration to write a new song?

Writing a new song is like channel surfing or driving without a map and arriving at a place you never expected to be. Inspiration is something to catch. It's there for the taking and sometimes it happens so fast. I seem to be finishing a song minutes from the seed of creation.

Have you written with anyone else in the past?

In fact I have collaborated with folks for quite a long time. It might be 20% of my output but the different perspective from others can give songs a broader landscape and soundscape.

Tell me about your connections to Locals Only.

I knew the owners from the Hideaway on Hillside and they were to open Locals Only Art and Music Pub. I presented to host an Open Stage dedicated to original music. This will be our fifth year doing this public service.

Do you ever travel outside of Indianapolis for shows?

I have played all over Indiana and this region. Smaller towns and bigger cities from Culver to Bloomington to Evansville to Danville. Although while living in New Orleans and Phoenix I branched out to surrounding places as well.

What would you be doing if you were not playing music?

Usually when I'm not playing music I'm having sex.

Do you have a job other than music?

Usually when I'm not playing music I'm having sex.

You seem to be quite the storyteller in your lyrics. Tell me a story.

(Thinks) So much to tell so little time to type.

One recent story had me playing at Lazy Daze Coffeehouse in Irvington here in Indy. Nice small place to play an acoustic show. The night before I stabbed myself with a knife opening an avocado. I passed out from the pain, my head hit the sink and my girlfriend revived me. I was a bit weary to play the next night and my hand was stabbed, although I pressed to play.

The two hour show included the promoter / booking lady having to leave the show before it started because of her cat was dying, some of our uncles outside drinking beers and coming into the shop asking for price checks on the artwork. I played for about and hour or so and faithfully took a break. I was still dizzy from the night before stabbing. I had some fans show up late and I tended to play longer than I should so I threw out a few risky songs like, "Harely Davidison Ryder" and "Tribute to Herb" not knowing in the other room (out of view) there was a Pastor writing a sermon for Sunday. I was later told a few "daze" later (by the promoter with the heavenly cat) that the Pastor and a few others were mortified by some of my lyrics and that I would not be performing there again and that I was banned from the Coffeehouse! Only did I receive a nice email from the owner sating everything was fine and I could play anytime but no cursing. I'd rather be banned I replied and now I have a avocado slicer for safety.

What is the largest crowd that you have played for?

I believe 100,0 or more. There was a mosh pit and kids were playing "smashing musical chairs".

The smallest?

Every day in my kitchen with just my Bassett Hound Chelsea.

Describe your genre in one word.

WOOD.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, the Stones, Elvis Costello, the Velvet Underground, Charley Patton, Sun Ra, Woody Guthrie and Beck.

What was the last movie you saw?

The Onion Movie. The Onion Movie is a comedy film written by The Onion writers Robert D. Siegel and Todd Hanson along with the NY-based writing staff of the paper.

Did you like it?

It was similar to the Kentucky Fried Movie and Prime Time. They are odd enough to enjoy.

If you could be any cartoon character whom would you be?

Huckleberry Hound by day and Woody Woodpecker by night.

Are you actively pursuing a record deal?

The pursuit of happiness and active role I have in life can not be determined as deals and promises but I might change my mind in a minute.

Have you lived in Indianapolis your whole life?

I swore after having open chest surgery at Riley Hospital at 13 years old that I would never live here in Indy. Although I have a scar nipple to nipple and I have lived in Indy off and on from 1999-2009.

Let’s say that someone offers you a $250,000 record deal but it is someone else’s lyrics and it is a rap album. Do you do it?

I have been writing and recording a rap album since 1989. The time is now to release the flow, give me the cash and I will put on the flash.

What is the best concert you have ever been to?

Ray Charles at Jazz Fest in New Orleans 1995 or maybe, Jerry Lee Lewis at Solder's Field in Chicago circa 1979.

Do you play any instruments besides the guitar?

Yeah, I play the piano, harmonica, mandolin, banjo and coffee can.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

Shrimp, tomato and onion.

If you were to headline at Verizon Wireless Music Center who would be your opener?

I believe I did this before when it was Deer Creek and the opener was Cinderella.

PC or Mac?

OK, these questions are starting to get personal.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hanging out with Micheal J. Fox on some Delorean Hovercraft.

What do you want to be remembered for when his is all said and done?

My music sounds like "wood" and my voice sounds like a coyote in a chicken coop or maybe I should be remembered as that guy who stabs himself and gets torretts.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Only you can make a difference with a voice, a guitar, a canvas, a camera, a saute pan...light the fire and control the heat the best you can. You can get burned but you shall heal. Cheers! Jethro Easyfields and the Arrowheads new CD ELIXIR can be purchased at Luna Records and Indy CD and Vinyl in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Your Favorite Enemies

I have the tendency to branch out and try to find new music. I get excited when I hear a new band or find music that no one has heard of yet. And that is exactly what I have done with the guys that I am speaking with today. And I will consider this band a bonus because they are packed with incredible talent. Hailing from the Canadian tundra of Montreal, Quebec. Producing a polished and professional image mixed with incredible vocals and skilled instrumentals Your Favorite Enemy is sitting with me today.

How did you guys all meet?

I actually met Alex at church, one day that my father forced me to get up of my bed and "to do something with my life”. It was almost 10 years ago and it was before I got out of drugs and depression. I met Alex in a small undenominational church and I was surprised to see a young guy looking "rock" in a church! That's how we became friends and then, I eventually met the rest of the band.

How long have you all been together?

The band started 12 years ago. The latest that joined us was Charles, our drummer. But most of all are there from the start.

What came first? The music or the image?

I would say the music for sure. The purpose that we have.; the desire that we have to impact the world with meaningful and inspirational music.

What is the largest crowd you have played for?

In Japan Tokyo at the Studio Coast for 2,700 people.

The smallest?

A few people in our living room! All of us signing all in one voice. Family times as we could call them! These are best times ever!

Who has the most tattoos?

Alex and I. We both have our full sleeve but actually, I have more because I also have a sacred heart on the other arm and an Egyptian eye on the chest.

What are you guys drinking on stage?

Actually, it's all about water and energy drinks of course. We fought our old dependencies and try to live our lives free from any unhealthy substances. So yeah, of course, we drink the "light'" energy drinks. (Laughs)

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

Pepperoni and cheese! The classic!

Who does your graphic design?

Sophie and Chuck, two friends from high school that decided to believe in the band and invest time, talent and lots and lots and I mean lots of energy in the daily talks that it represents!

What’s the music scene up there in Canada?

Well, mostly rock. Somehow, we feel like it's always going to remain that way! But, as resident of the province of Quebec, we are exposed to a lot of Francophone music. A lot of folkloric bands as well.

Anyone speak French?

All of us; it's our first language! You want to learn? "How are you?" "Comment ca va?” (Laughs)

It’s cold there, right?

Especially tonight! Winters are killing here in Montreal. It's terrible for the drivers, terrible when you have to walk outside. It lasts forever. (Laughs) But, I like it! I can't help it, I love snow. I think it's beautiful!

Tell me a little bit about YFE TV.

It's a project that we started by our own, three years ago, wanting to keep our friends as much updated as possible with what's going on with the band. But it's also a way for us to pass some messages, serious topics, comic ones, serious ways to talk about life, more comic ones. It's a way for us to share about life and let the people be a part of our world as well!

Any plans for a United States tour?

As soon as our album will be done (should be in spring time) we want to be back on tour. And of course, that includes the US!

Are the boys nice to you Isabel?

Always, some people think I am courageous to face daily life with man all around me (laughs) but these guys are the most respectful ones ever. I am respected here, loved and treated as for who I am, no discrimination.

Who writes all your lyrics?

Alex, our signer. He is very introspective. Very deep in his vision of life and he has this talent with words.

PC or Mac?

Mac all the way. You should have seen us all throwing our old PC' to the garbage and running to the store for a Mac! (Laughs)

Let’s say you are about to headline at the Madison Square Garden. Who is your opener?

Hmm; a local band I would say. A band that the people will enjoy seeing and that they will feel proud to see rising up. We're no rock stars you know. We want to connect with the fans and make them have fun. It goes beyond the show and the performance. It's all about their needs.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

U2, that's for sure. For their heart, their passion that we can feel through everything they do, their guts, their authenticity, their evolution through time, their social implication and so on and on and on.

Is Sef similar to Seal? Cher?

Sef is Sef! Impossible to compare!

How many studio alums do you guys have?

One EP "And If I Was to Die in the Morning, Would I Still be Sleeping With You", "Love is a Promise, Whispering Goodbye" and now, a third one is in the studio!

Where can I get one of those?

They're actually only available through the web for now. On iTunes or mail, at this link: www. yourfavoriteenemies.com.

Any reason why you are wearing a dress on your MySpace header?

Actually, it was a New Year party. Costumes should I say. (Laughs) Because we love to costume ourselves, just for fun, and, that's how my friend just randomly said to me and the other guys there that we should dress like girls, and, no need to say that even before we answered, she had already chosen us an outfit. (Laughs) Then, Miss Isabel and our graphist Sophie came and had the funniest time doing our makeup! Why is it in our header? Cause we liked that evening. It was funny, it was simple and we like to share our best moments with our fans because we know that they are not only fan of the music but of whom we are; because we are real! We are happy and we want the world to see that it's possible for them too!

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Changing the world with our music. Impacting the world with our passion, our dedication and, being an inspiration to the whole world. To turn compassion into action!

What do you want to be remembered for when it’s all said and done?

"Rise and shine, it's all possible"! I say that all the time, and my life is based on that belief. Go for it and reach to your dreams. Nothing can stop you.

If you could meet anyone alive or dead who would it be and why?

Joey Ramones. Wow, the Ramones are one of my most inspirational bands. I want to know how it felt to revolutionize rock!

Let’s say you are offered a $250,000 record contract. But you have to sing someone else’s lyrics and it’s a country album. Do you do it?

Absolutely not. No matter the money offered of the career opportunity who we are comes first? We our heart, our passion, our values. Nothing will never keep us from being who we are. (Sorry guys, we're not done wearing our old clothes and eating cheap pastas.)

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Well, to be called an artist is a huge privilege. I will try to be as real and honest as possible because then, you'll be able to read through me and take want you want, grasp what you like and be inspired by it. That's what YFE is all about. We want to be a light in the most of our generation's sorrows and it's not about being cheesy preaching about love. It's more about being strong and faces our ugly world in saying: stop to all the lies and problems that are pushing us down every day. Depression has had a way too big place for a way too long time. Drugs, violence, abuses, rejection, indifference, individualism and it’s time for our generation to rise and shine!

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Scott Kline

I am hanging out today with a singer songwriter that deserves some attention. A local boy from Indianapolis, he brings talented vocals, educated guitar skills, and a passion behind his lyrics. Singing from the heart and providing an image that matches his sound perfectly he deserves to get wherever his talent will take him. Hang out with me today as I introduce you to Scott Kline.

How long have you been playing the guitar?

I have been playing guitar for 8 years; since sometime in my senior year of high school.

What is your first memory of the guitar?

We had an old guitar just sitting in our basement all-growing up just as decoration. I grabbed it and started looking up chords on the Internet, but I quickly broke a string and before too long I broke another one.

Where do you get inspiration for a new track?

Most of the time it is just something that builds up and I write about whatever is on my mind. Still, I keep my notebook ready and write down a key phrase that I think could work for a song. Generally the music comes from a trick or chord I just learned and I put something together and just make up some lyrics based on whatever I might have been writing down over the past couple months.

Why are you taking your shirt off in that photo on your MySpace?

It was to go with the theme of the album. The new album is called “Strip Down for Cash Money.” The music is thirteen solo acoustic recordings taken in one attempt. The cover was to go with that, as if I were selling the shirt off of my back. But most people don’t seem to get that at all.

What is it like being from Indianapolis?

I’m not originally from Indianapolis. I grew up in Paoli, Indiana. I went to IU, and I moved to Indianapolis two and half years ago to pursue music fulltime. I have a couple friends that live hear and I tried forming a band, but it didn’t last. So I am here living in Indianapolis with the hope that I can use it as a home city and be within driving distance of a lot of other cities to perform in.

Do you think being from here helps your writing?

Being in Indianapolis has definitely changed the music that I write. The bands that I’m exposed to through performing and my job have directed my writing in a different direction. I wouldn’t say it has radically changed it, but as I mature it definitely affects everything I write.

What is the largest crowd that you have ever played for?

About 150 I think. I know I’ve been over 100 on several occasions, though most of the time it is more 30 to 75.

The smallest?

A handful, I don’t know exactly.

What is your favorite venue to play?

I don’t really have one. I have numerous least favorites, but I’ve yet to play at a venue where when I am done I can say, “this is home.”

Where can I get a copy of your latest album?

You can buy it at either Luna Music location or off of my MySpace page. My website should be working soon too, but at the moment I am still in the process of making repairs.

Do you have a job or is music it?

I work at Luna Music downtown part time, and as a music minister for Prairie View Christian Church in Fishers, but my main source of income is still performing at the moment.

Do you ever forget the lyrics to your own songs?

I do at times, the brand new ones and the older ones I haven’t performed for a while.

PC or Mac?

Mac, it seemed easier to do all the things I need for work. At the same time, I still have to work with PC people and so it is hard and there are many applications not available on Mac, though the ones that are usually are designed specifically for my needs.

What did you have for dinner last night?

Spaghetti and a peanut butter sandwich, usually it is either that or grilled cheese. I can’t afford much more than that.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

Pepperoni.

Describe your genre in one word.

Mooditude; it was coined by my old bass players dad. I jump around through different styles with all my different songs, or mostly they express a mood or an attitude.

If you could live anywhere else in the world where would you go?

If I could still perform anywhere and have a place to come home to; Assissi, Italy, Freiburg, Germany, or maybe Louisville to be close to where I grew up.

Ever thought of moving out to L.A.?

Thought about it, as my old saying goes, “New York steal your money, L.A. will steal your heart, and Nashville will steal your soul.” So I just stay here at the “crossroads” for a while.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

Wes Montgomery, Goo Goo Dolls, Radney Foster, Nat King Cole, Damien Rice, Jason Mraz, Nickel Creek.

Ever written lyrics with anyone else?

My old bass player, Jordan Whitt, gave me a poem that I turned into a song we now call “Lights Out.” Other than that I write everything by myself.

How do you know Ryan Ahlwardt?

We met when we were still living in Bloomington. I met him through my friend TJ who later became my guitar player for a bit. Ryan and I lived only 2 streets apart and when I moved to Indianapolis we maintained our friendship for a bit. It’s a little tougher now since we rarely see each other, but we do sometimes get to play shows together and we send each other emails.

Let’s say that you are offered a $250,000 record deal. But the album is someone else’s lyrics and it’s a rap album. Do you do it?

No, I’d love to have enough money, but really I am doing this so that my music will be heard. If they offered me money to record someone else’s stuff; someone will eventually offer me money to record my songs.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you on stage?

I got done playing at the Irving with a freezing cold room, as we finished the set a girl from the one of the other bands told me our music was “pretty.” Though I was less embarrassed after I heard her band. I understood the compliment.

What are you drinking on stage?

Coke no ice. Most people claim water, but it actually leaves my throat drier.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully, on a bus 9 months a year with a month at home with my extended family and a month recording something new. And a new smart car to drive around and relax in.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

Songs that affected people’s life, but not just people our age, but the next couple generations too. And a life that had enough character that people respected or loved me.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

The hardest thing of what I do is staying positive and hopeful. It seems the more work I do, the more it all comes down to luck and who you know.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Blackberry Jam

I am proud to introduce to you today a band that I have had the chance to see perform numerous time and become a big fan of over the last few years. These guys bring nothing but raw talent and a funk and soul attitude to the stage when they perform. Offering something to get you out of your chair and dancing and the beats to get you tapping your toes all night long, they have everything it takes to make a great party band. They are energetic, full of passion, and heart, and skilled in every sense of the word. I am proud to introduce to you Blackberry Jam.

Where did you guys all meet?

We met by being into the same types of music and being in Indianapolis.

How long have you all known each other?

The band consist of a nucleus of four people including Poncho Hedrick who is our bass player and our musical director. Solar P who is out MC an on background vocals and our tambourine man. Stacia Murphy is on the trombone and is our administrative guru. And then we have Jumbo Shrimp who is our front-man, lyricist, and lead vocals.

Solar and myself, I am Poncho by the way, are brothers with over 30 years of sibling ship (if that's a word). We've known Jumbo Shrimp going on 10 years and we've all known Stacia for 5 years.

When did you realize that you wanted to make music a career choice?

I started Blackberry Jam in late fall of 1996. From the very start of the band's existence it was a goal to do music as a career; however bills have to be paid, money has to be made, and all that good stuff, so it's up to the higher power to say when. All BBJ can do is be true to the cause.

Do you guys have jobs outside of music?

None of us are making a living just playing music. At least not with Blackberry Jam. (Laughs)

How long have you guys been together?

We had our long-time guitar player and drummer leave just weeks apart from each other to pursue other money-making schemes. 3 months going strong the four of us left in the band still haven't bumped into a reason to "Throw in the towel" yet. You can't stop a well oiled machine that has been moving since 1996

Is there a ringleader of the group?

I am but I prefer to be called "Huckleberry".

Where did the name come from?

Although not in the band at the time Solar came up with the name Blackberry Jam. It's a cool name for us as a funk rock outfit because either you think blackberries are good or they are nasty; however nasty has a positive meaning to it in the "Funk World', and that's the dealznik.

What should someone expect when they come out to a show?

Hopefully we throw people of guard with something unexpected that jams hard.

What is the largest crowd you have ever played for?

A crowd of 400 or so is the most.

The smallest?

There have been a couple of shows where the size of our crowd was bigger during our sound checks. (Insert sad face here.)

Any tattoos in the group?

Solar and myself were raised better than that; however Jumbo and Stacia have between the two of them about 3-4 tattoos on there bodies, and they are located on their backs and arms. They are nothing too crazy.

Who has the most?

I think Jumbo has two or three tattoos. It's a front-man thing.

Describe your genre in one word.

FuRoul(Fu/nk,Ro/ck,So/ul) We get FuRoul on those fools.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

I would say everyone that we heard that has a message with great music behind them are who we are influenced by...totally.

What is your favorite venue to play?

We play at Locals Only a lot. The Vogue will always give us a sense of stardom whenever we play there. There is no favorite venue; except for the room we are rocking at the time, so we are fair and appreciative to any venue that allows us to play.

If you guys could live anywhere other than Indianapolis where would you go?

Atlanta, Georgia is a cool and musical city that we could make as a second home very easily. The scene down there seems to be booming with enough boom to go around and around.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you on stage?

We don't get embarrassed any more. It's FuRoul music son.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

We don't eat beef or pork so chicken with extra cheese and some veggies is the pizza of choice. Sorry Ricky no pepperoni. (Insert another sad face here.)

If you could tour with anyone in the market right now who would it be?

Rage Against The Machine, U2, Prince, Common to name a few we'd love to tour with. Oh! TV on the Radio is a group we admire and pair well with; and we (Jumbo and I) actually met those cats when they came to the Vogue the first time, and they were very cool people, so we definitely can't forget them. Our image came after certain songs were written. These songs all have a rather raw feel to it along with socially charged lyrics. Some people would suggest that we are political; however none of us in BBJ are running for office, so we aren't political. We do see some things going on in society that we like to touch on in our music. The best way to get ones attention is with the raw BBJ flavor.

You guys are still unsigned. Any leads to a record deal?

We aren't signed yet; however we feel once we can finally record a record it will be worthy of some attention. We can't really afford to release anything but our hottest material; so the process of deciding which tunes to work on and release is the hardest task as of yet with this band, and actually we have been approached by a representative of a major rock label after seeing us perform live. At our shows we play our songs with intensity; so it's not uncommon for the crowd to get drawn in, and catch the vibe we help create, so it was one of those moment where the label rep witnessed and has been into us from that point on. We actually like the idea of being signed and having a deal that allows us to have make some noise and be able to make music for a decent living.

Where in the world did the name Jumbo Shrimp come from?

It means "big little man".

Do you guys have any thoughts on a tour anytime soon?

We will hit the road with force as soon as the recordings are done.

Where can I get some Blackberry Jam Merchandise?

Right now we are in the process of working on a project which fully represents what we are about musically. When it's available to purchase you will be one of the first to own a copy.

Do you guys actually eat blackberry jam?

Those berries are for the patrons only.

Where do you see yourselves in five years?

Being in our 5th year of intense rock stardom.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

The truth is BBJ's fire was lit to provide the light so we can see where we are going. We have grown accustomed to having this fire. The fire allows us to never be denied. It's that simple.

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Thank you Mr. Ricky Potts for giving a damn and to the music lovers around the globe. Peace.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Vinyl

I am hanging out today with a band from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Vinyl brings a polished image to the front of the stage. With feel good lyrics, balanced instruments behind an educated voice, and a pure sense of success Vinyl is well on their way to wherever they want to go. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Vinyl.

Where did you guys all meet?

We actually met in Jail. We all got arrested for PI's on the same night and struck up a friendship in the slammer.

When did you know that music was something you wanted to make a run at?

As for me, the first time I heard the Beatles when I was 7 years old. I use to rewrite their lyrics with my own. It's still a tie on who wrote the better lyrics. John Lennon or I?

You guys all have other jobs or is music it?

Yes we all work day jobs as well. I'm opening up a mortgage brokerage so let me know if you or anyone else you know wants to refinance or buy a home!

What is it like being from Fort Wayne?

It's cold and un-inspirational. Many of the local bands sound like Creed up here and it makes me sad.

Do you guys head up to Chicago a lot for shows?

I go to Chicago to watch Spoon and Ryan Adams shows but we have not played there yet.

What is the biggest crowd you have played for?

3,000.

The smallest?

Our girlfriends and the bar tender. So five but I don't think our girlfriends were paying attention so basically one.

Any tattoos in the bad?

The guitar player has a bad one on his shoulder. If you're reading this remember "Lazer Removal".

Tell me about the other guys in the band.

Jim plays guitar like a Greek god with a bad tattoo. Andy plays the bass like an angel. Paul beats his drum like he hasn't had sex in years. Joe, the singer, is just one handsome devil.

What are you drinking on stage?

I really enjoy Makers Mark on the rocks or with a splash of tonic. It truly is a beautiful drink.

Where do you get inspiration for a new song?

Anything can spark a new melody in my head but usually it is the darker and more sinister things that inspire me. Those are generally the things that I enjoy the most out of life. Its sweetness is my weakness.

Who is the ringleader of the group?

We all think we are the ringleaders. It works out well that way. Each person thinks they're the coolest but in reality we all four suck.

Where do you guys practice?

Drummer Paul’s basement equipped with our own bar, studio, vocal room, sound room, stage, and living room. I could live down there if he and his wife Jody would let me. "All I'm saying is think about it Paul!"

You guys ever tour?

This summer we have some open dates at Niagra in the east village in Manhattan so we'll probably set up a mini tour and makes some stops along the way out east.

If you could tour with any band currently playing right now who would it be?

I personally would like to tour with Greg Dulli from the Twilight Singers and The Afghan Whigs. I would like to open for them and play their own songs each night before they get the chance to just to piss him off night after night.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

I like spinach and mushrooms on my pizza. Pizza is like music, to each their own.

PC or Mac?

It is like a mullet really. PC is all business on the top and Mac is nothing but a party in the back!

If you could be one cartoon character which one would you be?

I'm not sure who I'd be but I'd do Jessica Rabbit.

Where do you guys see yourselves in five years?

San Francisco with my girlfriend and band mates rocking the Bay Area.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

The Beatles and Nirvana first and foremost. Then in no real order and I'm sure I'll leave a lot out: The Animals, Jesse Malin, Dinosaur Jr., The Cure, The Replacements, The Afghan Whigs and the Twilight Singers, Duran Duran, The Sex Pistols, Bad Brains, The Cult, The Dead Kennedy's, Spoon, Oasis and many many more.

What is the most embarrassing thing to happen to you on stage?

I don't have much shame so I've never really been embarrassed on stage. I'm sure I should have been many times before but I'm too vain to recognize it when it happens.

If you could only play one cover song for the rest of your career what would you choose?

The Beatles " The Walrus".

What did you have for breakfast yesterday?

Blueberries, scrambled eggs, and some nuts.

Coke or Pepsi?

I'm not much of a soda drinker so either water or Makers Mark.

What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?

The love we make baby (I'm going to leak out my own sex tape).

I always let the artist get the last word. Go.

Turn off the radio and check out some pure indie bands. And also, turn off your TV and read a book.