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.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Tyrone Wells

I am hanging out with a guy that fits right into this thing called good music. Proving an image (which includes the bald head), polished lyrics, incredible instrumentals, and a true storytellers soul he brings life to the stage. Touring all over the country and making stops in every corner of the states, I am pleased to introduce to you today Mr. Tyrone Wells.

What is your first memory of playing the guitar?

When I was 13 I took guitar lessons for a month. But I never practiced. I then picked it back up after college.

So how long does that mean you have been playing?

9 years.

You have a pretty solid image. What came first? The image or the music?

Thanks. I wasn't aware of that. I always feel like my image needs work. But hey, there's only so many things you can do with a shaved head. Music will always be light years before image.

What is your favorite venue to play?

The House of Blues. And I always love playing the Hotel Cafe.

What is the largest crowd you have played for?

8,000 at a festival in Amsterdam.

The smallest?

3 or 4 people at a coffee shop.

Do you think it helps playing in front of more people?

The amount of people doesn't matter as much as the attentiveness of the audience. I'd take a great listening crowd of 100 people over a loud chatty crowd of 1,000.

Where can I get a copy of that new album of yours?

Online at iTunes or any digital distribution company, through my website, or at most any music store.

What has been the initial reaction to the new tunes?

Weeping and gnashing of teeth. No, everyone seems to really like it.

What is your favorite song to play live?

Right now it's a tie between "This is Beautiful" and "Sink or Swim" and "More".

Any song that you play in every set?

Sea breeze. The ladies in the crowd might chase me down and hurt me if I didn't play it. The girl's like the love songs.

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

I think it's great for growing a fan base.

And I assume you are on Facebook?

Absolutely.

How often do you play full band?

About 77% of the time. When I'm booked for more intimate occasions like weddings or private parties I’ll play it by myself or with my drummer/percussionist Mark Chipello.

Tell me about the guys behind you.

Mark Chipello is my drummer/percussionist/tour manager. Mark's a UCLA grad, super smart and great business man. Great at teamwork and synergy. Then you have Mike Kopulos on guitar/keys/voice. Mike's an MI grad and newest member of the band. A humble and gentle soul. He is Uber-talented. Then is Aaron Bishop on bass/voice. Aaron's got a crazy musical soul. He loves all types of music and has great musical instincts. He's the one in the band that takes care of anything that's breaking or needs fixing. He's super handy and always up for lending a hand. Doesn't talk a ton so Mark and I can fill the silence with our thoughts.

Who would win in a pillow fight? Keaton Simons or Curtis Peoples?

I think Keaton would start really strong and then just when it was almost over People's would land a couple great shots. Then Keaton would be angered and come back with a closing uppercut shot.

If you could live anywhere elsewhere would you go?

Probably Hawaii. My wife's from there and we hope to live there eventually.

PC or Mac?

Mac for sure.

Staying single while out on the road?

I'm a happily married man. So I stay away from the ladies.

Tell me what its like working with Universal Republic.

It's been great so far. They shoot straight and I think they have a heavy roster. I am proud to be on the roster.

How cool was it being featured in a commercial for A&E’s Intervention?

Super duper cool.

How did that come about?

They heard and liked the song "More".

Are you bald by choice? (Laughs)

Totally. I could grow a killer mullet right now if I wanted to.

OK, who is Elina?

Elina is the woman I am fortunate to be married to.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully I'll have some babies and Grammy’s...

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

I want to be remembered as someone who was honest and hungry for truth. A man whose lives his life in such a way that leaves people inspired. Ultimately I hope my life points to the love of God.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Taylor Eigsti

I first head the man sitting with me today on MySpace many moons ago. I was just trying to find new talent and I was listening to anything I could get my hands on. And when I came across this young man’s profile I was immediately intrigued. Having a sound that you are not used to hearing these days, he brings a jazz meets progression funky beat to your speakers. Playing shows almost every night on every corner of the world I am pleased to sit with him today. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Taylor Eigsti.

I am pretty sure I can’t pronounce your last name correctly. Any tricks to help me?

Eigsti = Ike’s Tea.

Where are you from originally?

Menlo Park, California.

What is your first memory of music?

Seeing my sister play keyboards with the Doobie Brothers when I was 2 and 3 years old.

When did you know that you wanted to make a run at this as a career?

When my dad told me that I didn’t have to pay to perform and that I could actually GET paid to play music! I was 8 years old and made my career choice on the spot.

Any other jobs or is music it?

Music is it. Performing and giving masterclasses and workshops, although I also do visual art, coach football when I can, and try to involve myself in different fund raising efforts for several causes.

You play nearly every night. You ever get tired of being on the road?

Well, its harder living in New York, because in New York you never really feel like you’re at home; it feels like you are still on the road because there’s so much going on. I’m a bit of an introvert, so it’s nice to be at home composing when I can.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

All of the musicians I work with, and the people that I aspire to follow career-wise. Also my good friends and family.

Tell me a little bit about the guys behind you.

They vary every single time I perform, so it would take quite a while to go through all of them! All I’ll say is that I’m extremely lucky to play with some of the most inspiring musicians in the world, who are also very inspiring as people, and I am constantly learning from them.

I am bad with age but you do not look like you are only 23 years old. What is it like having had this much success at this young of an age?

I’m 24 now. I was very fortunate to get an early start on my career, and I’m glad that I took opportunities when they came up. I really feel that really really working your ass off constantly, surrounding yourself with positive encouraging forces, and allowing opportunities to present themselves, leads to a fun career in music. I’ve never panicked at any point, and I’ve trusted in the universe to allow opportunities to happen. I’ve been really lucky that it has worked out so far. I’ve had some tremendously low points and difficult situations, but I always have to just know that somehow there will be a better situation around the corner.

Describe your genre in one word.

Can’t and won’t. (Laughs) I’m trying desperately now to create good music that can be defined more by it’s emotional effect than by the category it’s placed in because of the structure of the music industry.

Your image is spotless. What came first? The image or the music?

Not sure about having a “spotless image”. All I care about is the music that I’m trying to make, and whatever image that record labels have to put out is more their business than mine in a way. They could dress me up like Richard Simmons if I get to make the record I want to make musically.

You are going to Tokyo this year. Will that be your first time over seas performing?

It won’t be the first time, but I’m really excited to be back there as part of Reuben Rogers’ band with Eric Harland. Japan is an extremely culturally saturating place, and it’s always a trip to get to see a culture that is so different from what I’m used to.

Let’s say someone offers you a $250,000 record contract. The album is some one else’s lyrics and it is a rap album. Do you do it?

Well, I don’t think my voice would work real well in a rap context, but that sure is a nice budget!

You were on the cover of Jazziz Magazine. What was like for you?

It was pretty cool, and I’m thankful to that magazine for the opportunity to promote my music in that context. Anything is welcome that helps get the music out there more. I sure wasn’t too excited about the fur-sweater picture they used of me, but again that’s one of the things that’s entirely out of my control.

Is MySpace good or bad for musicians?

Good, I think. But I’m really late in answering emails, so it makes me feel like more of a flake. But it’s just another way for people to get their music out there, and its a nice (and free) resource for people who want to have a page where they can post their music, and everyone can access it.

You have been to Indiana a few times. Any chance we will see you in the city of Indianapolis any time this year?

I hope so! I should be there in at least some context within this year. I was in Indiana last summer, and enjoyed it amidst sporadic rainy weather.

You are already on your 6th album. Where does all this new music come from?

Right now I’m working on my 7th album, and its an entirely new concept that moves a bit farther away from straight-ahead jazz than I have ventured before. My new band is called “Free Agency” and it is a blend of elements from different genres that I like. My goal was to assemble a “team of elements” that are usually irreversibly tied to certain genres, and put together the team that I want through a process I call “musical free agency”. I define that as the ability to put together music without the usual restrictions and unspoken guidelines that dictate conformity within certain types of music. The rhythms come from Rock and R&B, the harmonies come from classical orchestral music and modern jazz harmony, and there are 2 vocals with a symphony orchestra. My biggest musical goal is to create a band that makes music that is centered around emotions, (like film music), but has a driving pulse, adventurous unconventional harmonies, and a lot of energetic improvisation throughout. I want it to be accessible, but unpredictable.

Where does your inspiration come from when you sit to write a new song?

I’ll never quite know. But the closer we are to living entirely in the present moment, the easier inspiration seems to flow through us.

What is the biggest crowd that you have played for?

Other than some TV or Radio things that have reached a lot of people, I’d say maybe the biggest crowd for a concert was playing at Grant Park in Chicago at the Chicago Jazz Festival with Dave Brubeck. There were about 30,000 people there I think, and it was a really fun moment. We had two pianos on stage, and we were re-creating some of his original Octet arrangements that were really revolutionary when he composed them about 50 years ago, and remain innovative and groundbreaking today. It was a real honor to play some of that music with him.

The smallest?

(Laughs) Actually also in Chicago! Once when I did a week at the Jazz Showcase, there was a nice crowd there every night except the Wednesday, where I think there may have been 3 people in the audience for the late set.

Staying single while out on the road?

I have before, and it can be fun that way, but now I’m in a wonderful relationship that’s about to reach the 3-year mark, and I’m extremely happy to not be single anymore.

Let’s get some pizza. What toppings?

Onions, black olives, and pepperoni. That’s all you really need. I don’t know why people start throwing the kitchen sink at pizza anymore with Cilantro and a bunch of other garbage. I like it pretty simple.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Hopefully doing a lot of concerts with my band Free Agency, and also with my jazz trio and quartet. And I’m also always down to be involved with other people’s projects.

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

For encouraging unconventional thinking within the music world, and writing / performing / teaching music that is unique and exciting.

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

My website is tayjazz.com, and I am getting better at making sure it’s updated all the time with new art, projects, music clips, and concert schedules. It’s also an easy resource for anyone who wants to contact me about anything.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with 20 Win With Willard

The group I am sitting with today is one that has every piece of the puzzle to make it to the top. Mixing incredible lyrics, polished instrumentals, and a sense of passion behind each and every word, they just ooze success. Another Indianapolis based band whom plays very few shows in the city (have you gotten that I love that concept) they are a group not to miss when you get the chance. Do yourself a favor and listen to these guys. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Win With Willard.

Where did the name come from?

It was spray painted on an overpass in Tennessee. It looked good in writing. We found out years later that it was a politician's campaign slogan from the 70's.

Where did you guys all meet?

Adam, who plays bass, and I went to school together in Louisville. Mike, who is on the drums, and our original guitarist knew each other in Detroit. We went to school together in Anderson and wound up sticking around Indy as sort of a middle ground.

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

I think we've always had that itch. It's the sort of escapism you inherit when growing up in the Midwest. I can thank my dad for giving me a decent enough musical education and letting me ruin his old Gibson to give me any specific direction.

Where does the inspiration come from in a new song?

I've constantly had melodies bouncing around my head since I was a kid. For this last record (Remember the Alamo) we wrote and recorded it over the course of about three years. At that pace you can sort of putter along and wait for a little spark here and there. After a while though you're struck with the impracticality of waiting for the spark. I'm trying to learn from the artists I admire who just work their tails off. Writers write. We write and hope the work pays off.

Who writes all the songs?

We usually arrange everything together. I'll come to the group with what I think is a pretty complete idea. Thankfully the finished product rarely sounds like what I had originally envisioned.

Is there a ringleader in the group?

Not really. Evan says that because he's the ringleader. The songs are his, so we follow his lead in their growth process.

Where can I get a copy of your new album?

iTunes, CDbaby, winwithwillard.com, Luna, Indy CD & Vinyl, Borders downtown, etc.

Any thoughts on a nation wide tour to support it?

That's the plan. We're putting a string of regional dates together for the summer and will be looking for some folks to manage our booking following that. Touring can make or break any band, especially a young one. We're trying to be smart about it. We really have no ambitions to be rock stars, or tour for touring sake. I love what we do. We just need to make enough to live on and we'll be happy.

What is the largest crowd you have played for?

About 700 at Birdy's.

The smallest?

My wife.

What is like working with Introit Records?

It's a mob front. It's funny you should ask, Introit was actually just the name we started throwing around in college any time any of our friends were playing in town. We have a pretty creative circle of friends, one of which, a designer here in Indy, made a logo that we just started slapping wherever we could. There really is no business behind it. Just whatever we feel like releasing at the time. All in all it's a good relationship.

What is your favorite venue to play?

Here in town? We'll have to be diplomatic here. The crowds at the Mel and Local's Only are always really supportive. Makes for a good time. Spin and Birdy's are kind of our home bases, though.

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

That's the question of the hour. I don't really care as long as I like the people around me.

Any tattoos in the band?

Mike has some misc. shapes on his arms. Eric (who is on keys) has some pretty nice work on his forearm.

Who has the most?

Eric.

What are you guys drinking on stage?

We have an unspoken rule not to drink onstage. If we break it it's probably going to be cheap and beer.

Let's say that you are headlining at Verizon Wireless Music Center. Who is your opener?

It'd probably be a superhybrid of the Last Good Year, Mardelay, and that kid from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. We'd call it Shortround's Roundhouse Review.

You guys play a lot with a good friend of Indyconcerts.com, the Last Good Year. How did you guys all meet?

We went to school with most of them. Good bunch of guys. We all moved to Indy around the same time and have sort of mooched off each other's crowds ever since.

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

We are a pretty unassuming band. I'm sure I've fallen off a few stages.

What was it like working with Peter Gaunt?

Pete's awesome. We basically just meet him in Muncie, have a few beers and then hang out. You walk away pretty certain you wasted the day because you never really felt like a tool. Two days later he sends you some pretty great shots.

Do you guys all have jobs outside of music?

We all work at Angie's List about 50 hours a week. Pays the bills.

What was the last movie you saw?

Revolutionary Road.

Did you like it?

Pretty solid. Makes you want to stay the hell out of the suburbs that's for sure.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

A better guitarist than I am now.

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

We used our brains and youth to find some truth, and made some music along the way.

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

Alamo!

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Amy Kuney

The girl that I am sitting with today is a voice that you owe it to yourself to hear. Stemming from a genre that few acts can pull off, she brings every meaning of the word talent to the stage. After just releasing her debut album, Bird’s Eye View, she is beginning to hit the road and sing her songs for us. Sit with me today as I introduce a new song and one that I am sure will be around for a long long time. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Amy Kuney.

What is your first memory of the guitar?

My dad used to play a Gibson 12-string when I was a little girl. I always thought it must be so complicated to play! There were 12 strings! I was too young to know it
was only 6 notes.

What was the moment where you knew that you wanted to take a run at this thing called music?

I was around 12 or 13. Hanson just came out with MMM-Bop. They were from my hometown, and I thought, "If they can do it, I can do it!"

What is it like living in L.A. for you?

Busy! It's a little tough to be creative in this city. There are so many interesting and strange personalities and surroundings. One can get lost.

Do you write all your own lyrics?

For "Bird's Eye View" I did. I'm starting to co-write more now though.

Where do you get inspiration for a new track?

Anywhere really; people, relationships, break-ups, fights, arguments, movies, books; loooong drives in traffic. (Laughs)

Where did you come up with the title for your debut album?

Well, I moved to Honduras when I was 13 years old, and after that, I never saw anything the same way again. I named the album after my song "Bird's Eye View" which was written about my experience moving to a third world country.

What has been the initial reaction been from your fans?

Good! They seem to really like this album which is great. I'm really happy with it, and so far their feedback has been pretty positive.

Where can I get a copy?

It's available on iTunes, Rhapsody, and you can buy the hardcopy on: http://www.spinmoverecords.com/store.

What is the largest crowd that you have played for?

Probably about 1,500. I know that's not a whole lot compared to the stadiums that many artists play, but it was for me!

The smallest?

My dad. (Laughs)

Pepsi or Coke?

Coke.

If you could be any cartoon character who would you be and why?

Lisa Simpson but she's probably smarter than I am.

Any thoughts on a nationwide tour this year?

More like fantasizing. (Laughs). We're working on it!

Do you have a job or is music it?

Music is it! I'm very blessed.

You have shared the stage with some pretty substantial names. Who has been the most fun to perform with?

They've all been fun to perform with, although having the honor of performing "Coldwater" with Damien Rice has been a huge highlight in my life.

Staying single out there on the road?

(Laughs) So far, yes.

What is it like working with Spin Move Records?

It's great! They're a small label, so our relationship is very personal. Whenever I call the office, I always get a real person on the phone. They've been supportive of me for a long time, and they've worked hard with me to
help me develop.

What are your thoughts on MySpace?

Honestly? I think people are gravitating more and more towards Facebook. I get a LOT of spam on MySpace. Granted I'm probably not "choosy" enough with my friend requests, but I notice the Facebook is a little more protective of people's personal information. A lot of my friends prefer Facebook.

Describe your genre in one word.

Alternative.

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

Nope.

What would you be doing if it weren't music?

I would probably be writing and traveling; journalism perhaps? Maybe living in Honduras and helping my parents. It's hard to know for sure.

You were on a Macy's holiday commercial. What was that like?

It was surreal hearing my voice on TV every commercial break (there were A
LOT of Macy's commercials this year. (Laughs) My parents even saw it in
Honduras!

Do you shop at Macy's?

Not often.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I see myself touring more and more. I would like to have another album or two released by then. It's really hard to plan ahead that far. Right now I'm living by the 4-month plan :)

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

I want to be remembered for having helped and touched people with my
story. I've seen a lot of things especially tragedy. I feel for the people who have been through tough situations, and they don't have anyone who understands what they are going through internally. I'm hoping that my songs will help sooth and comfort those people. I think music is a strong tool in that respect.

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

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview me :) Though I did say that I prefer Facebook, I still have a pretty active MySpace page so if you'd like to hear my music for free check it out: www.myspace.com/AmyKuney.

Artist Interview: 1-on-1 with Dark Star Orchestra

I am sitting today with a very special guest. A band that brings something to all of those old school deadheads out there back to the years of the Grateful Dead. Dark Star Orchestra recreates full set lists from one of the greatest bands to ever hit the stage. Their stage shows is often compared to that of a Broadway spectacle. With a sound that is practically just like that of the original Dead they have hit the nail on the head when it comes to accuracy. Every thing on the stage from their dress to their instruments to their song choice matches that of a previous Grateful Dead show. Sit with me today as I speak with one of the best cover bands that you will ever hear. I am proud to introduce to you Dark Star Orchestra.

How long have you guys been doing this?

The band formed November 11, 1997 so a little over 11 years at this point.

What was your reason for choosing the Grateful Dead?

The opportunities for continuing the improvisational template they created are limitless. Plain and simple; we have tons of options with this music.

How long have you guys all known each other?

Most of the group has been together for over 10 years.

Do you guys ever forget the words to any of the songs while you are in stage?

Sure, it has happened. We’re not infallible.

I assume that you guys do not have jobs outside of music?

That is correct. Dark Star Orchestra is our full time gig!

What is largest crowd that you have played for?

The 2008 All Good Festival had over 12,000 people watching us, and I’d say at the 2008 Bonnaroo there were probably over 10,000 people watching us.

The smallest?

The first gig DSO played in 1997 there were 49 people there.

If you were not doing music what would you all be doing?

Finding some form of work or employment that would enable us to get back to playing music.

Where are you guys all from?

While the band was formed in Chicago , only one member lives there now. We all live in various places around the country at this point. Rob Eaton lives in Vail, Rob Barraco lives in New York, Rob Koritz lives in St. Louis, Dino English lives in Lexington, Lisa Mackey lives in Pennsylvania, Kevin Rosen lives in Chicago .

What can someone expect when they come to a live show?

We're always interested in turning on new fans to our music, and if you never saw a Grateful Dead show, perhaps you could experience that with us. And if you're an old Dead fan and wondering if the music is still going to survive beyond the current members, I believe it is.

You guys have played over a thousand shows? How many do you play a year?

Approximately 150 shows a year.

Do you guys tour like this every year?

We played over 200 shows in the early part of DSO’s career, and we are working on ways of playing a few less shows each year.

What is your favorite venue to play?

Love The Fillmore in San Francisco also the Crystal Ballroom in Portland is great. Hard to pick a favorite!

Do you ever feel like you were a part of the real band?

That hasn’t really crossed my mind. But we do have out of body moments while playing music but never once did I think I was part of the original Grateful Dead, no.

Have you ever met anyone from the original band?

Yes, five members of the original Grateful Dead have played with Dark Star Orchestra! Bob Weir, Donna Jean Godchaux, Vince Welnick, Bill Kreutzmann, & Tom Constanten.

Is there a ringleader in your band?

Not really. We are a democratic organization.

Where do you guys practice?

At sound check before our shows.

Do you guys tour alone or do you have support that goes along with you?

We have such a big stage set up and production that we do not have many opening acts or any supporting artists on tour with us. It has happened, but nothing that is all tour long or anything.

Any tattoos in the band?

None that I know of.

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

I really like Italy .

You guys don’t pick on Lisa do you?

Definitely not.

Do you guys have any influences outside of the Dead?

Many! We listen to a lot more music than just the Grateful Dead. Let’s get something straight here, we love and perform this music, but music is also a wonderful universe and we listen to all types, from rock, pop, blues, jazz, funk, bluegrass, soul, R&B, folk, you name it we listen to it. Each band member has a unique set of musical interests (and that shows evidently on everyone’s different iPod), but there are tons of other influences on our musical psyches other than GD.

Do you guys have any pre-show rituals?

None to speak of.

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

”Dark Star”.

Do you guys ever play any originals?

At this time, the band focuses on playing music written by others. But we have not ruled out the idea of doing an original project.

Do you think you have heard every single Dead song recorded?

Absolutely!

There are 3 Rob’s. Do you go by other names to keep each other straight?

No. We’re just “Rob” to each other.

Tell me what it is like working on a major label.

We aren’t on a major label. We produce, manufacture, and distribute all of our own records on our own independent label.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Continuing to turn on thousands of Deadheads with our music.

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

Continuing this legacy of great music – and having the dividends of that be spread as far and wide as possible, even more than I can imagine now.