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When you create art for the masses, there’s bound to be instances of your personal life being broadcasted as well. It may not be ideal, but it happens. Still, the rise of social media and technology have enabled us to construct personal narratives. Music videos, for example, are the most extensive they’re ever been - or, in Maadwest’s case, as personal and well-filmed as ever. Instead of making a big budget clip for their single “Be My Show,” the group decided to tone things down. It’s a refreshing change, plus it suits the single much better than a blockbuster ever would.
Since the single is a romantic acoustic tune, Yosemite National Park makes a wonderful backdrop. From the beginning, the camerawork is excellent: the establishing shot serves as an entry into the life of vocalist Matthew McNamara and Tipper Newton, who the band recruited to provide guest vocals. As the song’s mellow guitar and soft vocals resonate, the camera continuously captures the couple on their little adventure. It’s endearing, and truly complements the sweet-as-honey lyrics, “I wake up in the morning / I see you in my eyes / I see you in the afternoon / What a nice surprise.”
Now, this could have been a cheesy, over the top affair, even with a simplistic setting and two leads. However, Maadwest decided to let simplicity reign. It works perfectly. Though Yosemite is a huge place, it still feels intimate and approachable. The shots and camera angles set up the story, but soft lighting and performance shots make it seem like a home video. Despite its stripped-down approach, it’s still visually stimulating. The camerawork is well done and provides rotating shots and different angles to provide a rich, in-depth picture of the surroundings.
“Be My Show” ’s stunning yet subtle music video is a wonderful way to compliment the single. Much like the video, the song doesn’t demand to stand out or grab you - it just so happens to be a laid back song about love that has a particular charm to it, especially when McNamara and Newton harmonize. While a funny date scenario or “day in the life” video may have been suitable, the creative choices in this music video allow the song to shine. It’d be a shame if “Be My Show” ’s quirky and effective charm were overshadowed by a music video that detracts from its vibe. Luckily, Maadwest chose an approach that provided a simple but compelling music video to perfectly encapsulate the mood of their ode to love.
SINGLE REVIEW: Bridgit Mendler, “Can’t Bring This Down (ft. Pell)”
When you picture Disney, you’re likely to conjure up an image of Mickey Mouse or something equally fun and fancy-free. Disney’s powerful imagery leaves its mark beyond cartoons, of course, having provided plenty of live action shows in its brand. Disney Channel alumni, for better or for worse, often stay associated with their well-known roles well into their careers.
So, it may come as a surprise that there are artists out there with humble Disney beginnings that can create music that is compelling and not the sugary pop listeners expected. Bridget Mendler ascended on ‘Good Luck Charlie,’ a Live action sitcom with a friendly, unassuming theme she sang. Now, with her single “Can’t Bring This Down,” Mendler proves herself quite the force to be reckoned with.
Rather than playing into conventional pop radio, the singer-actress took a different approach: providing a single to the masses that is catchy, inviting, and full of melody without making flashy moves. For some, that would equal a boring single. In “Can’t Bring This Down” ’s case, it’s a smart move that pays off.
The song has surprising sonic depth, with Mendler’s opening notes resonating as she sings with soul and purpose. The great thing about her voice is that it has a rich quality to it without any showiness. You can vibe to the track and truly appreciate the vocals, despite how unassuming they seem.
The guest feature by rapper Pell is a nice treat. Often, a guest feature has the capability of taking away from the main performer. Luckily, Pell is complimentary to Mendler and brings a change of pace to the track. The song’s laid back, catchy vibe is ideal for a rap guest spot - which is why Pell feels so at home.
Mendler’s single is full of sounds that create a distinctly relaxed atmosphere. The chorus, while noticeable, isn’t bombastic. There are no loud guitars or glitzy EDM-inspired arrangements that drown everything else out. There’s just a simple beat, Mendler and Pell’s vocals, and well-crafted synthesizers that provide an enjoyable listening experience one may not expect from a former Disney star.
With its sultry synths and beautifully layered vocals, “Can’t Bring This Down” is an effective demonstration of how to grow up in the public eye without being over the top or trying to be too jarring. Mendler seamlessly bridges the gap between Disney and adulthood with her soulful, subtly catchy single.
SINGLE REVIEW: “Universe” and “Smile For Me” Matt Olo-Whaanga ft. KJ Apa
We have entered a musical period where real instrumentals, in songs, are slowly becoming a thing of that past. There’s a trend towards electronic instrumentation and rap infiltrating every single genre that has led to most artists sounding the same. Taylor Swift sounds like Katy Perry who sounds like Maroon 5, who sounds like that new boyband Why Don’t We.
It’s really easy to become jaded listening to anything popular these days, so, when an artist (or two) come along and really show musicianship, you know it’s something special.
Meet newcomers KJ Apa and Matt Olo-Whaanga. With the help of Tupa’i Keneti Apa, KJ’s father, they invent, dare I say it, an entirely new genre. It’s a little bit indie, and a lot of rock, courtesy of KJ, an electric guitar savant.
If the name KJ Apa sounds familiar, congratulations, you are caught up on pop culture. KJ plays Archie Andrews on CW’s Riverdale, but you won’t hear any of Archie’s derivative pop music here. Instead, KJ and Olo-Whaanga collaborate to bring visual lyrics to life with complex compositions.
We know that Olo-Whaanga and KJ have worked together on at least four singles. The first two feature lyrics by Timena Apa, KJ’s sister, and a wizard with words. This time, however, KJ and Olo-Whaanga took a stab at writing. While their styles are unique there is an emotional and visual undercurrent that runs through everything they release, no matter who the lyricist is.
KJ wrote both the lyrics and music to “Universe”. The song takes the listener on a journey through a combination of terror and awe. With lyrics like “The elusive sublime, the tragedy of our mind,” it’s easy to relate to, no matter what you’re going through.
Musically, the intro resembles a lot of current indie rock, but also includes an 80s rock edge. The only comparison I can kind of draw is to an up and coming DC band, Skyline Hotel. But, even then, once KJ plays the guitar solo, it’s unequivocally brand new.
Lyrically, you might see it as questioning religious beliefs with ideas about needing something bigger than ourselves to exist, running through the entire song. You might hear it as a cry for help in holding onto any sort of belief system through trying times. Or, maybe you see it as just about the idea of change in general.
A good song has to be universally relatable. Most artists do that by writing, in your face, love songs. And while there are two lines that could be talking about a romantic partner, “I know it’s hard for you to believe/ I guess you’re seeing something different to me” it’s abstract enough to not overtake the entire piece. I really appreciate that.
Now, “Smile For Me” follows the same unusual structure, actually, all their songs do. Two verses lead into a pre-chorus and then a chorus. The lyrics finish off with a word or phrase repeating throughout the instrumental section that ends the song. This isn’t an easy formula to pull off, mostly because it relies so heavily on the musical arrangement. However, that’s not a worry here. KJ’s compositional style (along with T’upai Keneti adding piano where he sees fit) is what makes this all work.
Anyway, back to this song, specifically.
Whereas KJ’s lyrics have an abstract poetic tone, Olo-Whaanga utilizes a literal style while still including the same visual and emotive elements. “Smile for Me,” as far as I can tell, follows the story of someone lying about an aspect (or aspects) of who they are and the reminder that it’s important to rely on strong relationships to get you through the pain. “I don’t wanna be the one to tell you why/ But I don’t wanna let you live a lie”
Again, this is relatable on many levels. Everyone is lying about something to someone. But it’s always important to have an outlet. A person that reminds you that you can get through the pain. And, if you don’t have that one person, maybe the song can act as a proxy.
Musically, there is an eastern tone mixed with an eerie metal instrumental. One thing that sets KJ and Olo-Whaanga apart, (if you couldn’t tell by their last names) both boys are Samoan. So, unlike many current artists, they aren’t culturally appropriating, but rather, culturally appreciating. They fashion an amalgamation of many different genres, and it just works.
Artists and musicians like these two don’t come around very often. That makes it important for journalists, like me, to point them out. I can’t wait for a full EP or album.
In an interview with GQ, KJ mentioned he has a project during the break of Riverdale. Is it selfish to hope that project is working on a full album and not a new role? Probably. Oh well, I’m gonna hope anyway. Now more than ever, we need good, unique music. KJ and Olo-Whaanga have made it clear: they deliver.
Reviewed by Ariella Laichas-Malamud
Get Connected:
KJ Apa: Twitter | Instagram
Matt Olo-Whaanga: Instagram
Universe: Spotify | Youtube | Amazon Music | iTunes
Smile For Me: Spotify | Youtube | Amazon Music | iTunes
LIVE REVIEW: Upright Man, The Jauntee, Viva La Hop - Brighton Music Hall 11/25
The best lineups are the ones that you would least expect. They take musicians that are complete opposites and have them play a show together. The result is a confluence of different genres, styles, and backgrounds.
From the psychedelic indie sounds of Upright Man to the jam-band funk nature of The Jauntee and finally the hip-hop fusion that is Viva La Hop, there is a lot going on at this show.
Upright Man are an alternative psychedelic band with some grunge and roots-rock influences. They kick off the night with “Animals,” which sets the tone for their entire set. The song features hard-hitting percussion skills paired with dynamic bass and keys and multi-textured guitar work.
I’ve only ever listened to their recordings, but seeing them on stage, carefully piecing together each layer of their songs is an experience on its own. I feel like I’m floating on a cloud.
“It’s time for a trip to space,” says bassist Nick Katz between songs. “I don’t know about you guys, but I really fuck with space. I mean, we all fuck with space, but…”
“He fucks with space the most,” drummer Max Yassky chimes in. “I”ve walked in on him fucking with space,” he says as they begin playing “Ecstasy.”
They play a cover of The Beatles’ “Happiness Is A Warm Gun,” and add in their own melodic guitar introduction, giving it that Upright Man flair. If I wasn’t already familiar with the song, I might not be able to tell that it is a cover. In this case, the band made it their own with the addition of their floaty vocals and airy rhythm section.
There are two types of musicians: the ones that sound better on their recordings, and the ones that sound better live. Upright Man fall into the latter group. Although their debut album was amazing, it is nothing compared to the full experience of seeing them perform it in person. Upright Man are a band you just have to see live to fully understand what they are capable of.
The Jauntee kick off the night with a new song. It features a heavy drum beat layered over keyboards, bass, and guitar.
“I moved to Virginia, to clear my agenda, basking in the splendor, well I highly recommend that,” vocalist and drummer Scott Ferber sings over jazz and funk undertones.
I’m swaying around the room. I’m digging their sound, but after the song’s five-minute mark, I’m a little over it. I am waiting in anticipation for the next song. This is when I realize that The Jauntee are a jam band and they're known for their long, impromptu songs. The crowd is clearly into it, too. They are hooting and hollering after each song, for the entire hour and forty-five-minute set.
The band hardly pause between songs, which is great at times, but it’s difficult to tell when a song is changing. There is also very little stage presence besides the occasional “We are The Jauntee” from guitarist Caton Sollenberger.
The ambiance of the room immediately changes once the band walk off stage. Now, in their place is nine-piece, hip-hop group, Viva La Hop who kick things off with a dual-MC platform, a music board, a horn section, bass, guitar, and drums.
I am impressed by their ability to create a blend of funk and hip-hop music straight from their instruments instead of solely relying on loops and recordings.
It looks like there is a party on stage, and I can almost see that energy being passed down through everyone in the crowd. The room is transformed into a nightclub for the remainder of the night, and I can feel the bass throbbing through every inch of my bones.
SINGLE REVIEW: The Tigerlilies, “Shipwrecked/Lovers Do”
Ask the average listener what makes a chorus memorable and they’ll probably tell you that glitzy instruments, sugar-sweet melodies, and other elements common in pop singles are what makes a chorus strong. Sometimes, it’s hard to remember that a chorus can be both minimalistic and powerful. With their 7” release “Shipwrecked,” The Tigerlilies are here to remind us that punchy, fast songs have just as much catchiness as the latest Top 40 hit.
The first single, “Shipwrecked,” is energetic right out the gate. A rocking riff lays sets the pace as feelings of desperation and hitting rock bottom reverberate in the lyrics “I was shipwrecked and on my own / And helpless and far from home.” Despite its less than sunny lyrical disposition, “Shipwrecked” is a chant-y and energetic affair. A slick guitar solo offers a nice break in rhythm and tone as well. It’s an effective, no-fuss opener.
“Shipwrecked” is a fun song, one that is easy to sing along to and absorb. There are no frills here. Just barebones rock with attitude, a large chorus, and lyrics anyone can relate to.
At first listen, the transition to “Lovers Do” doesn’t seem all that significant due to the similar pacing and shared core instruments. Once the lyrics have time to resonate, however, it’s clear that The Tigerlilies are happy to wear their hearts on their sleeves. This single is all about having someone to love - but it doesn’t feel as sickeningly sweet as some lovey-dovey song you’ve heard before. Rather, it’s about being a reliable lover and being there for your partner.
As the track moves forward, the lover in question receives emphatic support as the lyrics “I’ll be there for you / When you need me to” are sung. You truly feel the care and appreciation held for the song’s subject. None of these relationship necessities - communication, love, and support - are seen as a grand gesture. To The Tigerlilies, it’s just “what lovers do.” It may not be the grand declaration you’re used to, but it does a great job at illustrating love through power chords and gang vocals.
The “Shipwrecked” 7” is a fun, short, and energetic listen that punk and rock fans alike are sure to enjoy. Though these guys have nailed a simple but effective rock sound, it’d be exciting to see what they could do if they employ something like electronics or softer toned guitars. Still, they know what they’ve got at their disposal and use it well.
Reviewed by: Brooke Daly
Get Connected:
The Tigerlilies: Facebook | Twitter | Website
Shipwrecked: iTunes | Google Play | Spotify | Soundcloud
It takes a lot of talent to choose songs for a debut record. If you write constantly and have been in the game for a while, before your first official album, you have possibly hundreds of songs to chose from.
Livingmore hit the nail on the head with the fifth single from their debut album, OK To Land, and we have the pleasure of premiering it.
I spent a good portion of the last few months being sick and watching way too much TV as a distraction. That resulted in watching a lot of commercials as well, and I fell in love with a good portion of the songs they were using. There were some that fell into different genres, but, for the most part, at least among music supervisors, there is this resurgence of the 40s - 60s. Whether it’s remastering old tracks like Peggy Lee’s “Similau” or licensing new tracks that sound reminiscent like The Shack’s “The Strange Effect”
This new single from Livingmore, “Strange Hopefuls” falls perfectly into that. The song starts with an intro that reminds me of a slowed down version of the intro to Happily by One Direction, however, the pop undertones are quickly discarded as soon as Alex Moore begins to sing.
Her vocals in the verses include aspects of both Lee and Mama Cass, giving the song an overall vintage feel. The pre-chorus has a bit of a Regina Spektor vibe, while the duets between Spencer Livingston and Moore have some similarities with Lady Antebellum or early Taylor Swift.
That was a lot of names, but that’s kind of the point. Moore’s voice takes on the greats of the indie-folk movement spanning generations. It makes it really easy for anyone of any age to fall in love with the song.
Lyrically, the song is very visual with lines like “since you been with me now, the trees are swaying round” almost personifying nature. As the title implies, the song has a very hopeful quality to it. And it’s not just in the melody or the lyrics, but all aspects of the track have an almost spring-like/ new beginnings quality to it.
It’s rare that the chosen instrumentation could tell the story of the song without the lyrics, but that’s the reality of Strange Hopefuls. The music isn’t accompanying the lyrics, but rather, it’s a collaborative effort. This is likely a result of the connection between Livingston and Moore.
Moore tells us:
It's one of the first songs Spencer and I worked on together. Spencer showed me this really magical sounding guitar melody and I just started singing what came to mind, and that ended up being the song, it all happened in a very spontaneous and instant way.
And it just works.
And Moore is right, it doesn’t matter how lost or drunk she was, what time or day it was. This transitional piece, in both their lives, just proves how good a match they are.
Collaborations don’t always work immediately, Livingmore is one that did.
In today’s age of highly-charged politics and social change, having poignant lyrics on pop radio isn’t as rare as it used to be. While thought-provoking tunes have done plenty good in the landscape of art, there’s always a place for well-crafted songs that command you to dance. If “KINGS” is any indication, Wayfarers are certainly aware of the power of an infectious tune.
As soon as vocalist Katie Cecil’s vocals enter, a slinky bass line lays down the groove. It’s impossible to not tap your feet as you sing along to the fun chorus. Cecil and Anthony Purpura, the second half of the Wayfarers duo, expertly lay flashy guitar chords in the background of the chorus, adding some simple but effective layers to the tune.
Moving from verse to chorus is a well done transition that doesn’t feel too brash. The change in tone is digestible. The sudden burst of energy delivered by the chorus is a step toward something new, not a leap. The song’s sonic layout is a testament to Wayfarers’ songwriting capabilities and knowledge of how to craft an earworm.
“KINGS” isn’t one of those songs that sounds catchy but has layers that hit home a bit too much (“Pumped Up Kicks,” anyone?), either. The lyrics are all about celebrating life and just surrendering to the act of dancing. Cecil invites everyone to move their bodies - expert dancer or not - as she sings, “Move your shoes to the beat / Like they’re shooting at our feet.” The lyrics could easily be sung on a dance floor, at an outdoor festival, or inside a house party. Whatever the vibe is, it’s clear that this song is all about embracing it.
What’s also nice about “KINGS” is that there’s an air of confidence about it. Cecil’s vocals are delivered with personality, plus the instrumentation stands out in a way that oozes cool. Wayfarers also feel confident in themselves, as evidenced by the lyric “Here we come like dynamite / Boom goes the fuse when we ignite.” It may not be as commanding and self-confident as Beyoncé’s “Flawless,” but it certainly lays the groundwork for shaking your body around and feeling free.
“KINGS” is a fun, catchy song that shows that indie pop still can be impactful even if there aren’t thesis-worthy themes hidden beneath the surface. Hopefully, Wayfarers have learned from this breezy single and plan on creating even more dance party-worthy tunes for all of us to enjoy in the foreseeable future.
Reviewed by: Brooke Daly
Get Connected:
Wayfarers: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
“KINGS”: iTunes | Google Play | Amazon | Spotify | Soundcloud
Music has always been my life balance. I couldn't imagine a world without it. It was vital to me to find a way to document and share all the amazing artists all around us with the world. I had a love for photography and writing, so starting my own music site was my way to make a difference and to have creative control to showcase any artist out there. It started as a hobby, but today the site is it’s in full swing and busy. Today, the site has a team that all have a passion to keep music alive.
Diane Webb is the owner and editor of YesterdazeNews, established in 2012. She's also a photographer and a writer. Webb has done freelance work with Shockwave Magazine since 2016 and previously freelanced with Metal Titans. She also owns her own photography business, YesterdazeNews Photography where she provides photography services for musicians, events, and other styles of photography. Music is her core balance and she loves to photograph any style of music and tell a story through her photos. She has a deep passion for her local artists as well as the Swedish rock and metal music scene.
I have always loved music. As a kid I would harmonize to almost any melody I heard. Once I discovered what types of sounds I truly enjoyed, I sought out similar sounds to increase my musical knowledge and library. I started shooting local bands at venues for practice in 2011. When I finally became comfortable enough to take on the bigger venues, I learned how to write press requests, and get in touch with band & tour managers. I progressed to doing transcribed and video interviews in 2012, and the rest is history.
Kristina Wright is the photographer/owner of Broken Skulls Productions in Pensacola, FL, established in 2009. She has been photographing musicians and artists since 2011. Her first contributing publication was Mouth 4 Music Magazine in 2011. Next was Zero Signal Magazine in 2012, for which she was sought out after the editor saw her covering an Aquabats! show at a local venue. She currently writes for Patchchord News, Mayhem Rockstar Magazine, and has recently signed on board with SkullsNBones, Play it Loud Media Group, and Yesterdaze News. Music photography is her passion, and she covers every show she can land.
I found from a young age that music was true passion of mine that shortly turned into a talent. I loved the way performing in front of people felt and it always gave me a buzz. Throughout high school, I was performing in various bands putting together all sorts of different music. I've taught myself a lot of instruments over the years such as piano, drums, trumpet and guitar. I genuinely love all genres of music but my favourites are RnB, jazz, and trap soul music. Making music myself I love to play around with all different types of compositions mixing together aspects of all different genres. My style is fairly agile, always jumping from one sound to another! My family and friends are big supporters which is a huge motivation for me to continue my music. God has gifted me with my talent and love for music. Someday I would love to make a career out of making it!
Music has always been a great priority for Matt Olo-Whaanga. The renowned singer is best known for his contribution to the song Euphoria (also featuring KJ Apa, Timena Apa and Tupa’i Keneti Apa) as well as Pillowcase In The Sky (also featuring KJ Apa and Keneti Apa). While in school, Olo-Whaanga always felt drawn towards local bands, making fellow musician friends, and making music at home when he could. He continues to always find a way to incorporate music into his daily life, including rugby games, before exams, and of course, at the bar after exams. Keeping his options open, he knows that whatever his career path has in store for him, he will always have music at his side.
I music because it connects me to a whole community of people. It’s my vessel and my voice to meet so many amazing people, even if we don’t have anything else in common. It’s also my worship. God blessed me with talent in music so if i were to ignore those talents, i feel would be dishonoring my creator.
From a young age, Jeremy Schaeffer knew he was called to the world of music. Although being the black sheep of his family, he swore it wouldn’t hold him back. Schaeffer has proved himself to do just that. He has been a successful entrepreneur for close to 10 years. He has a degree in Audio Engineering, owns the recording studio All Poetic Audio, and tours full-time with his band Earth Groans. Earth Groans signed to Solid State Records six months ago and has toured nationally and will be soon touring internationally.
There are times in life when you know exactly what to expect. Those instances lead us to perceive things at face value, for better or for worse. Sometimes, though, things that appear to be one way on a surface level contain a deeper meaning and can be fascinating while keeping you on your toes. Rebekah Todd’s “Hustle” is an example of just that.
When the opening blaring horns and thumping bass compliment Todd’s voice, it’s immediately enticing. Energy arrives from the get-go, and it’s clear this song has legs. It’s fun, and harkens back to the days of 70’s funk with a gospel twist.
It’s very lively, and definitely a tune that you would keep on if you were blaring the radio and listening to it. However, there’s layers to this song, which come on the second or third listen. Unless, of course, you happen to Google the lyrics or something like it.
Todd may captivate with her soulful voice, but it’s the words she sings that give “Hustle” a personality and meaning. The funky tune is a head bopper on the surface, but Todd isn’t singing about dancing, as the title may suggest. She’s talking about life and the struggles that come with it. As the flavorful instruments swell in the background, Todd reminds us that for some, “This American dream sure is hard to find.” She elaborates further when money becomes a topic, stating that we all “Got to get the money to make it better.”
However, this isn’t some bleak dystopian song disguised by fun instrumentals, à la Lego Movie. Todd is just as encouraging as she is honest, making it clear that she wants to see us hustle every time the chorus comes around. In a moment of self-reflection, she hones in on her state of being and perseverance as she declares her “Shoes are worn / Jeans and holes / But I got the blues / And I got the soul.” Instead of telling us to grind our lives away, it seems Todd is more concerned with people having fun while they do it. She’s also conscious of her personal strength, singing “You can’t have me / You can’t take my mind.”
It’s clear that Todd is a free spirit and that she has a fun side she likes to tap into on her music. Beneath the show-y instruments and rallying chorus, however, there’s some words of wisdom listeners would be wise to absorb.
I do what I do because, at the end of the day, there is nothing else I would rather do. When I was growing up, I struggled a lot with trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Music has been pretty much the only constant in my life, so I figured I wanted to try something there. Music has always been an escape for me, and I loved reading about the bands I loved and even discovering new bands. My goal is to help people get to know their favorite bands, and also maybe provide them an outlet to discover some new favorites.
Heart State Review founder Logan White is an avid music lover, Ohio sports fanatic, and destined to grow old with his cats. When he is not at a concert, he’s probably watching a scary movie or anything with superheroes. His very first interview came when he was a freshman in high school and did a brief email interview with Erik Chandler of Bowling for Soup for his high school’s newspaper. At that moment, he knew it was something he wanted to do and set out to start his own website a year later at 16, and has since interviewed bands like Third Eye Blind, Anberlin, Yellowcard, and more.
Music gives you an inner release--an outlet to feel each and every emotion through human connection. It gives you the closest thing to a physical and spiritual manifestation, hearing your feelings through the words and instruments of another person. Nothing matches the feeling of hearing your favorite song in a live setting, among a huge crowd of people who love it just as much as you do. Hand in hand, writing provides you a therapeutic and safe haven to let whatever thoughts are clinging so tightly inside of you spill out onto the page in front of you. I musyc because it makes me feel as alive as I’ll ever be.
Alyssa Ladzinski has been a lover of rock music her whole life while being brought up on classic rock staples like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, growing up to be enamored with anything related to the genre from indie and alternative to hardcore and jam bands. She got her start writing and music reporting with an internship in college and from there has written for a number of publications such as The Celebrity Cafe, Music Times, 12ozProphet and NYS Music, her most current venture. From there, she’s reviewed festivals, concerts performed by Balance and Composure, Formula 5, Phish, The Disco Biscuits and Dead & Company, written endless album reviews for and interviewed bands like Dopapod, Lespecial, Pink Talking Fish, Lotus and more. She’s also taken on roles in music publicity as well as social media and acts as Marketing Coordinator for a generously sized concert and sporting arena.
Music to me gives me that comfort and outlet to be myself. I try to revolve my life around music with my fashion, my love for fitness, and my daily activities. The career I have had in this community has helped me to gain very valuable friendships, taught me business tactics, and got me to bust out of my shyness.
Stephanie Stevens; a rock journalist, music fan and creator of the EAST COAST ROMPER music blog. She started her career in 1994 going from a printed magazine for the local community, into a full-blown website and now a blog site that has in-depth interviews, live show reviews, and music reviews from national, indie, and local bands throughout the states and beyond. She also is a freelance writer for other music websites throughout the US and overseas.
I musyc because it is something I have loved for many years and getting to be a part of it has been amazing! Some of the bands 16 year old me watched on FUSE back in the day I have not only met but interviewed. CRAZY! I remember exactly how I discovered my favorite band, Underoath, as well. Finding them led me into everything I know now because before it was just normal rock music for me. Going to shows, seeing these bands, meeting people all played a role in me wanting to be in the industry. There are also many things I see go on or things I have learned that light a fire inside for me to write on and discuss, knowing that someone can gain from that information. I musyc because discovering bands now vs back then gives me a chance to share them with many people, I don't have to worry about a bigger outlet getting to them years later because I can share them right now!
Trenton Worsham began getting involved in journalism during his time at North Greenville University. While at the South Carolina school, he earned a BA in Broadcast Media while hosting his school’s local radio show. There, he interviewed a few bands such as A Plea For Purging, Our Last Night, and The Overseer. In 2014, a year after graduating, he was approached by Soundlink Magazine founder Josh Lowe, formerly known as Southeast Pit Report, to cover the local band Islander after signing to Victory Records. Since then, Worsham has written on various topics within the industry and has interviewed many big name bands such as Breaking Benjamin, Of Mice & Men, Motionless In White and even the Baha Men!
I began doing photography as a means to help me occupy my mind while getting clean. My love for music began early on. I was the typical 90s kid who cried when Kurt Cobain died, and thought Pearl Jam’s Ten was the most amazing album to exist. In the late 90s I found the realm of punk/hardcore/post hardcore through Tooth and Nail. I developed an undying love for Underoath while Dallas was fronting. I spiraled into the world of Christian Metal and just fell in love with everything related to the scene. So I decided to combine my two passions.
Lindsay Davis launched herself into the music industry in 2013. She began shooting the local music scene in Louisville, KY, catching shots of The Foxery, O’Kingdom, and Artifex Pereo. Eventually through networking herself too death, she began shooting shows on the national tour scale. Davis began contributing her photos to Substream Magazine in the summer of 2017, where she was published in print for her photos of COIN and Bleachers. She has worked some of the festival circuit as well, most recently a member of the Media Team for Fountain Square Music Festival. Lindsay is currently based out of Indianapolis, IN.
