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< Back Everfelt: A Harmonic Driving Force on the Rise Nicole Brice Jun 9, 2023 Share Everfelt's mix of genres and sounds will leave you wanting more With so much music being produced these days, sometimes it’s difficult to stand out amongst the clutter. One band from Johnston City, Illinois, is defining who they are with a sound so unique, it can’t be compared, and that band is Everfelt. The band has many years of musical experience between them and they know what they want to accomplish and even have a plan as to how to do it. Since forming in 2022, the band is steadily gaining momentum on social media and these guys are building a platform to show the world their brand and style of music. Photo provided by band Drawing inspiration from many genres and artists, Everfelt’s music is characterized by its heavy guitars, emotional and powerful vocals, and introspective lyrics. With guitar solos emanating like straight southern sludge rock, the sound coming from these talented musicians is sure to resonate with many. One might even say they have created the perfect soundtrack for the apocalypse with hints of blues, metal, post-punk, goth, and psychedelia. Everfelt isn’t afraid to be different, so if you are looking for a band with tunes that are both emotionally powerful and sonically heavy, these guys are for you. They are on the rise and are sure to grow in popularity in the years to come. Everfelt is comprised of Adam Steglich on lead vocals, Corey Robinson on lead guitar, Jacob Crawford on rhythm guitar, Jason Hensgen on bass, and Stone on the kit. Currently, the band is finalizing the tracks for their upcoming “Ascension” EP, which is scheduled for release later this summer. We had a few questions for the guys, so we sat down with them for a little Q & A, which you can dive into below. With plenty of music streaming on all platforms, we’re certain you’ll find something to pique your interest, so be sure to check them out. New album coming summer 2023 MaM : Hey guys, thanks for chatting with me today. We really appreciate you. So, how did the name for the band come about? Adam : Everfelt was created in memory of a friend of mine, whom I used to play music with, that passed away two years ago. He and I had a prior project called Angerfelt. [His] last name was Lingerfelt, and so that’s where Everfelt came from. I love the concept, too, of the music being forever felt in your mind and in your heart. That’s something you’ll remember no matter what. That was the original thought process behind Everfelt, but now it’s become something else between all of us. We want you to actually feel and experience the music. Stone : One of the things that makes this band so successful, I think, is that each member … does what they do best, and we work very well together. We’re very open-minded with each other. We don’t hide or harbor any BS. We get it out in the open. We get it taken care of and we work together as a team, and this is the result of it. MaM : With such a unique sound, as far as influences go, you are all over the board with STP, Zeppelin, etc., but who are your true inspirations as far as bands and musicians? Corey : My guitar influences are David Gilmour from Pink Floyd, and I grew up listening to Slayer and Metallica—stuff like that. I started playing guitar in 1991 during the grunge era. I developed my own style by listening to everything that I liked. Photo provided by band MaM : So, you have more of the metal influence, then? Corey : Yeah, but I listen to a good bit of blues and jazz, too, and I can honestly say I am just influenced by music in general—even hip-hop. Don’t get me wrong, though; I take some of their beats and ideas and throw it in music because I do have that respect for all genres of music. MaM : I take it, then, you have music in your collection ranging from “awesome” to “please don’t judge me?”(laughs) Corey : Yeah, I listen to a good bit of blues and solo stuff like Joe Bonamassa—every realm of music you could possibly think of. Adam : For me, growing up, it was Layne Staley from Alice in Chains and Jonathan Davis from Korn. Even Ozzy and Black Sabbath were huge influences for me. Maynard, of course, too. Vedder was an influence, too. MaM : Everyone wants to make fun of his vocals, but you couldn’t have had the 90s without Vedder, right? Adam : Right! (laughs) When I listen to us and what we’ve been coming up with, there’s even a hint of Danzig influence, too, but I can’t really put my finger on any one band that we sound like. What’s coming together and being created is because of the recipe of the people involved. It’s creating a new sound you’ve never heard before, and that is Everfelt. MaM : Your sound is very different, and I feel you are on to something with it. How did the band come together with the core grouping you have now? Stone : Let’s go back to 2018. We had a cover band out of my studio here, the Man Cave, called the Los Hombres. We were a five-piece cover band. Jacob, our rhythm guitar player, was a part of that. He went on to play with Adam a good bit, and then COVID hit, so after COVID, I’m sitting here … and I’ve been on a solo drum mission for a few years. I’m a fan of Motorhead, 5 Finger Death Punch, Judas Priest, Nickelback—and all the haters can just hate, but ... Photo provided by band MaM : I was just about to say something about that. (laughs) Stone : Hey, good music is good music . (laughs) So, I’m seeing Corey posting all these videos of himself playing with a blues track, ripping it up, and then I found out he was living close to me … four miles down the road … so I invited him to have coffee with me and … Corey : After the phone call for the coffee, we started playing cover songs of Santana and stuff like that. [We were] trying to get that psychedelic feel and vibe and I was like, ‘Screw this shit.’ We were doing good, but I was like, ‘If I’m going to do my own music, then I’m going to do it right.’ I wanted people to know my music and the music we create, so I started writing rhythms, and Adam had an ad on Craig’s List, so we brought him in. The first jam was perfect. Jacob came in, too, and it was like magic. We then had a first bass player come in, but he didn’t want to show up for practice, so … Jason : So, as the story goes along, I’m at home having a cup of coffee before work one day, and literally just a week before that, I had seen these guys on Facebook, and they were local guys, so I gave them a thumbs up. I listened to their jams and really liked it and thought it was fresh. A week later, I heard the hook of our song ‘Stranger’ in my head and [knew I had to] holler at these guys because their videos on FB at the time didn’t show a bass player in the lineup. I’m local, so, long story short, I hit them up and showed up to practice where we started jamming. Everyone in the band is easy to get along with and it all just came together. They appreciate good tones, and everything was meshing naturally and now here we are. It’s just a comfortable fit. Photo provided by band MaM : What inspires you to create, and what inspires the lyrics of your songs? Corey : The main reason for me creating these songs is that it allows me to sleep better at night. Adam : I completely concur with the sleeping better, but for me … the medium of art, whether it be writing or music or painting, helps me to fulfill my purpose here. Every single day we are practicing, not just at home, but everywhere. We are always focusing on the music. Giving back to the gift that has been given. This is a gift to us. [It’s] the energy and the opportunity to have a message and help people relate to us, not just to talk about their dark tunnel but also to talk about the light we have found. Corey : I envisioned this for a long time in my conscious state and in my daydreams and throughout life. I already know it’s part of my destiny. That’s how I created these songs: from dreams I had. It seems I have done this in a past life. Stone : This is blowing up bigger than we could have imagined. Jacob : I just look at music in a different way than most. There are multiple factors, though. It all depends on my mood. Jason : Music inspires me. Since I was young, I have always listened to rock. The basic rhythm of music … 1, 2, 3, 4 hand claps – stomp – sing – dance and 1, 2, 3, 4 two-steps. As simple and primal as that. The communication and synergy of multiple people doing it together, too, and then adding creativity to it as an expression is what I found works. It’s like magic. The music is invisible, but you can hear it and feel it. Being able to participate in a live band and being able to make live music with other guys is what it is for me. MaM : So, you guys have a new album slated for release this summer. What direction are the songs taking? Adam : We have 18 songs we are working on, but it’s going to be split into two albums with nine songs each on the albums. The first album is going to have some of our current releases. It is called ‘Ascension.’ We’ve seen an evolution with some songs that didn’t make the cut right now. We want every song to be a banger and we want you to be able to put the album on and just push play. Where we are right now, we are working on finishing all the pieces. It’s coming along. MaM : You can’t rush progress! Adam : It’s been a natural progression … allowing ourselves to become music. The music is not ours; we are the music. Each song has its own theme and its own way. Photo provided by band MaM : What would you say your mission as a band is? Adam : We would like to be playing arenas and stadiums in the next two years. We’ll be together a year on August 14, so we think we can get there. - To experience Everfelt’s sound, be sure to hit one of the links below. The guys have some shows booked for this summer, so be sure to check out their social media to stay up to date on all live performances. You’re gonna want to go ahead and put this indie band on your radar now! Home | EverFelt Facebook EverFelt Band - YouTube Eric Wilburn Corey Robinson Adam Steglich Jacob Crawford (@everfelt_band) on Instagram EverFelt | Spotify ‎EverFelt on Apple Music Nicole Brice loves discovering new talent. Got something you’d like her to check out? Send her an e-mail at the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next

< Back Metal: The Killer of Trends Nicole Brice Nov 10, 2022 Share Truly a Time to Let Your Soul Fly Free To say that Metal, especially Southern Metal, had a HUGE impact on my life would truly be an understatement. To be honest, I cannot recall a single time when Metal was not a staple in constant rotation within my music collection. The one band, though, that I can attribute to me truly getting into super heavy music, though, would have to be Pantera, and I had the opportunity to not only see them once in my life, but twice. Those memories will never be forgotten and those ticket stubs will forever be treasured heirlooms as will my 1996 concert tee from the tour for "The Great Southern Trendkill". Tour shirt from July 11, 1996 Pantera always had that in-your-face / want to punch something sound. I can recall hearing "Becoming" for the first time in my brother's 1984 Honda Accord on his Alpine stereo at full blast while riding home from school one afternoon. The aggressive guitar that starts the track gives an instant punch to the cojones and what a musical journey that song is. It never lets up. Aggressive all the way through. Dimebag truly was a pioneer of his time and is so missed. Shows were a way of life growing up and every show that came to town was a "must see". In 1996, my brother and his friends heard that Pantera was coming to town, and so, I instantly HAD to go, right? Add in the fact that they were to play with White Zombie, and duh, no brainer! We were there! We ended up scoring balcony seats, fail , but at least we were getting to go to the concert, so there's that. On May 7, 1996, "The Great Southern Trendkill" was released and the cover was so sick that I knew before I even pressed play that I was in for an incredible experience. To this day, "Floods" is one of my favorite Pantera songs, hands down, because of Dimebag's amazing guitar solo, and I like to listen to that track on rainy days in my car at full volume. Considered one of Pantera's most aggressive albums, "The Great Southern Trendkill" features some of the fastest tempos and down-tuned guitars in their entire anthology, and even though it was to be one of the last Pantera offerings for a long while after, it serves as a reminder of days past when Metal ruled and life was more simple. The 1996 show with Pantera and White Zombie was killer, no lie, and was one of the BEST shows I have attended in my LIFE . White Zombie was incredible, Pantera was incredible, Eye Hate God...not so much, but the entire show was definitely one to remember. Many years later, on a whim, I bought tickets to see Pantera again, but this time they were playing with Soufly. Winner, winner, chicken dinner! I am a HUGE Max Cavalera fan, HUGE ! I, literally, cannot go a day without listening to at least one Sepultura or Soulfly song. Max's voice gets me so pumped up! Just a few of my fave Sepultura songs are "Refuse/Resist", "Roots", and "Ratamahatta". I even religiously wore my brothers Soulfly t-shirt in high school, often pissing him off when he would go looking for it and couldn't find it. It was almost always in my room in my dresser, ha! Oopsie! No clue how it got there. ::grins:: I'm wearing the infamous Soulfly t-shirt here, but it's hidden behind this stuffed pig. No clue why I was holding a stuffed pig. Anyway, so ended up getting to that second Pantera show late and arrived in the middle of Soulfly's set, bummer, but at least I got to go, and Pantera did not disappoint, once again. Sadly, I did not get a t-shirt from that show, but I have the memories of who I went with and the experience. Those things can never be replaced. Even though, Pantera is no longer around with the OG's, the memories of seeing their brilliance on stage will forever live in my mind, and maybe if I'm lucky, I'll stumble upon a YouTube video in the future of someone who recorded the shows I attended. Even though we didn't have camera phones back then, some people did sneak video cameras into those shows, and I'm sure someone out there has footage. They just have to. Till next time, listen to good music, reflect on the memories, and let us teach the future generations what classifies as truly GOOD music. Love and Light. -Nicole- Me in high school wearing my Pantera tour shirt in 10th grade Geometry class Have a story you'd like to share? Hit us at the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com Previous Next

< Back Film Review: Oppenheimer Shaun Corley Jul 25, 2023 Share Oppenheimer shines as Christopher Nolan’s best, most hypnotic film to date Christopher Nolan has returned to theaters with Oppenheimer , which may stand as his best film to date. Nolan occupies a rare niche in American cinema: He makes intelligent, layered movies that are given the same marketing treatment as Mission Impossible or MCU offerings. Very few other filmmakers can pull this off; Nolan’s only peer in this realm may be Jordan Peele. For Oppenheimer , Nolan pulls out all the stops, creating a long, dense, and ultimately hypnotic film. Christopher Nolan left a grand impression on movie-goers with his second film, 2000’s Memento . Starring Guy Pearce, the movie followed an amnesiac as he attempted to piece together various clues, such as cryptic tattoos, in a bid to discover his life before. Memento was smart and did not insult the viewer’s intelligence. These qualities would be present in Nolan’s next movie, a 2002 remake of Insomnia . A career high for the late Robin Williams, Insomnia ensured Nolan’s place in American film, a promise that came to fruition with the director’s Batman trilogy. While movies such as Memento put Nolan on critics’ radars, Batman Begins and its two sequels made the director a household name, affording him a status unlike any other. In 2020, he released Tenet , which opened to fair reviews and a low box office–although to be fair, the film was released during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. For the first time in his career, Nolan had polarized the critics and audiences. While Tenet may be ripe for rediscovery one day, it remains the one film that did not receive universal acclaim from critics. However, with Oppenheimer , Christopher Nolan comes roaring back, reasserting himself as one of the best directors working today. Oppenheimer is, at its core, a biopic. It tells the story of Doctor Robert J. Oppenheimer, a young physicist who is recruited to the Manhattan Project during World War 2. Cillian Murphy (L) as Robert Oppenheimer (R); Source: Associated Press At the beginning of the war, United States intelligence learned that Germany was conducting atomic experiments, with the goal of creating a weapon. In response, the U.S. created the Manhattan Project, with the intent of beating Germany to the punch. Oppenheimer was recruited to lead the Project, despite protests from the military. A key aspect of the Manhattan Project was its secrecy and compartmentalization; the facilities and scientists were scattered across the country, all working towards the same goal—even if they didn’t know what it was. Of course, America did develop the atomic bomb, dropping it on the Japanese city of Hiroshima on August 6th, 1945. The film touches on Oppenheimer’s ambivalence towards the bomb, particularly after it is dropped. In one powerful scene, the Los Alamos scientists learn the bomb worked, and Japan has surrendered. Many of the scientists celebrate joyfully, but a few do not. As Oppenheimer leaves the party, he sees his fellow researchers crying or vomiting in horror of what they unleashed. Source: Associated Press The film’s final part focuses on this fallout. Before the war, Oppenheimer had talked to (but never formally joined) the United States Communist Party—a fact that Lewis Strauss tried to use against him when it came time to extend Oppenheimer’s security clearance. Some of his friends, such as Doctor Edward Teller, sold him out in the hearings, and the film touches on this as well. Oppenheimer features a jam-packed cast: Cillian Murphy ( Peaky Blinders ) as Robert Oppenheimer, Emily Blunt ( A Quiet Place ) as his wife Kitty, and Robert Downey Jr. ( Iron Man ) as Lewis Strauss, the former chair of the Atomic Energy Commission. Each of these actors gives great, Oscar-worthy performances. Murphy, a frequent collaborator of Nolan’s, hits a career high as the titular physicist, embodying both his hopes and his fears for atomic energy. Emily Blunt, as Kitty Oppenheimer, stands out as well. She is the woman of an intelligent man, and she is every bit as smart herself but must take a back seat to her husband. A pointed commentary on gender roles at the time, Kitty still nevertheless supports Oppenheimer through thick and thin. Cillian Murphy and Emily Blunt as Robert and Kitty Oppenheimer; Source: Associated Press Finally, Downey shines as Lewis Strauss. Strauss pretended to be Oppenheimer’s friend, but it was revealed he was ultimately the one who torpedoed Oppenheimer’s security clearance. Downey perfectly embodies this political sleaziness, pretending to be Oppenheimer’s friend while simultaneously selling him out. Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss; Source: Associated Press The supporting cast is enormous and also features some stand-out performances. Florence Pugh ( Black Widow ) plays Jean Tatlock, an ardent Communist who had an affair with Oppenheimer. Jack Quaid ( The Boys ) plays the notorious Richard Fenyman and Benny Safdie ( Licorice Pizza ) plays Edward Teller, two other scientists who worked with Oppeheimer on the Manhattan Project. Others turning in great performances include Tom Conti ( Peripheral ) as Albert Einstein, Josh Hartnett ( Penny Dreadful ) as Ernest Lawrence, and Gary Oldman ( Slow Horses ) as Harry Truman. As mentioned earlier, Oppenheimer is a biopic . This is a genre that has proven popular with moviegoers as well as critics. However, these films tend to be overproduced and over-sentimentalized; some use the term “Oscar Bait” to describe them. These arguments are not without merit, as these films can sometimes gloss over certain aspects of the subject’s life. Nolan breaks the biopic mold with Oppenheimer. The film is not a simple retelling of events but instead uses a challenging narrative structure to tell Oppenheimer’s story. The film regularly jumps from era to era, offering viewers the chance to see Oppenheimer both at the Manhattan Project and years later at his security clearance hearing after the Project ended. However, it is a testament to Nolan’s skills as a director that the story flows smoothly, despite the structure. There is much to like about Oppenheimer, such as the performances and its structure. It would be a disservice not to discuss Ludwing Goransson ’s stirring score, which he recorded in just five days. Nolan built a name for himself working with composer Hans Zimmer; however, Zimmer did not work with the director on Oppehemier . Instead, Goransson, whose other scores include Black Panther and Fruitvale Station, among others, delivers a fantastic soundtrack--his score perfectly complements the film. Oppenheimer ’s three-hour runtime may be daunting to some viewers, but rest assured it is time well spent. Between Nolan’s superior direction, the stellar performances, and a killer score, Oppenheimer is hypnotic, drawing fans in and keeping them hooked. While the film may be difficult to get through for some, patient viewers will be rewarded with not only one of the best films of the year, but also, perhaps, Christopher Nolan’s best as well. Oppenheimer is currently in theaters across the U.S. Shaun Corley is an East Coast pop culture enthusiast who loves to write about everything entertainment. A big, important Screen Rant writer, Shaun has many leather-bound books, but they're far outnumbered by comic books and the smell of rich mahogany lingering in the air. Previous Next

< Back Straight from the Bayou: Few Blue’s Vibrant Sound Redefines New Orleans Music Nicole Brice Sep 3, 2024 Share Few Blue has the rhythm that will bring you to your knees. In my many years of discovering new music, it never ceases to amaze me how Louisiana talent can be so different in so many ways. Louisiana has become known for its intense metal scene as well as zydeco and jazz , but often, the more unique bands coming out of this state tend to get buried. It’s not because they are not talented but because people’s musical tastes are focused elsewhere. When a band is recommended, I never know what to expect. After receiving the recommendation to check out Few Blue ’s music, it only took one listen to fall in love. Few Blue is one of those bands with an infectious lead singer who reels you in with her pure talent and powerful vocal stylings—stylings reminiscent of great female singers like Miranda Lambert , Pat Benatar , and the ever-forgotten Alannah Myles . Camryn Wisniewski’s energetic persona and insatiable personality are a perfect fit for the well-rounded outfit of talented musicians she shares the stage with, who play a style of music so rowdy that you can’t help but get excited. This band is so tight. If Miranda Lambert were to front Pat Benatar’s band from the 80s, then you would have Few Blue. Their first EP, So Damn Wrong , was released in January 2024 and is an intense kick to the gut with standout tracks such as, ‘ Oops ,’ which makes you snap to attention instantly because of how powerful it is. It’s an ass-kicking female anthem with pure, fierce sonic energy. ‘ Call Me Crazy ’ is another high-powered track with impressive and compelling lyrics that speak of love and longing. To be honest, this entire EP kicks so much ass. Truly, it does. There is not one single bad song. Put So Damn Wrong on your list of EP’s to check out NOW ! A tight-knit group of friends who began their careers together at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Few Blue is on a path to greatness because of its intense energy in the musical landscape. The band is comprised of: Brad Boozer (guitar), Rob Schexnayder (drums), Christian Liang (bassist), and Camryn Wisniewski (vocals). If you were to ask me how to describe Few Blue’s music, I would have to say that it’s just good. It's as simple as that. Based in New Orleans these days and fresh off playing a show at LSU’s Welcome Week , the band has a busy rest of 2024 lined up with even more planned for 2025, so I was thrilled to catch lead singer Cam on an off day. We discussed the history of the band, vocal influences, what the future holds, and more. Read on below. Camryn Wisniewski (vocals) - Credit Gary Governale MaM : So Damn Wrong was just released in January. What has the response been so far to the EP, especially with such a strong opening track as ‘ Oops ’? That song is a swift kick to the ass. Cam : This song was a joke song. I think we were hanging out and drinking a few beers when it was written because we do these jam sessions when we go on trips together where we sit down and write songs. Brad will start strumming random chords … like B, A, D, right? As he’s playing, I’ll freestyle on top of it. ‘ Oops ’ is one of those situations. It started with a story about this red-haired girl, and she’s one of my good friends, but it was a strange situation at the time, and it made a great song which the term “ Oops ” is one of Brad’s favorite terms for when something wrong happens, like “Oops, my bad.” MaM : It’s just such a powerful track! Cam : That’s the attitude we wanted to convey, too. It’s like an instant rollercoaster. MaM : How do you usually approach writing material? Cam : Well, we’re actually writing some new material now and figuring out a process that works for us. This is going to be our first album but our second release. When we started the band, it was just four kids in college who wanted to jam together, but now things are getting more serious, and people want us to make more music, so we’re trying to figure out how to become actual songwriters. When we started writing the So Damn Wrong EP , usually we would have the melody first, or Brad would have a riff first, but for like ‘ Call Me Crazy ’, that was my melody with some simple chords that we jazzed up. We also changed the chorus to make it more upbeat and exciting, but for the rest of them, it was all Brad with a riff, and we would build on it. Once you get the first verse done, then you can pretty much do anything with the song. It’s been a challenge because we just started off having fun. For ‘ Song Why ,’ the bass player came up with this simple bass line, like three notes back and forth. Then, I wrote on top of it next, and it started to build. Build the base and then put layers on top of it. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : I love that. You never know where the song could go when you have a mass collaboration like that. Cam : I will say, though, that sometimes, if you have too many minds involved, it can get a little crazy, but it worked out great when we recorded ‘ Oops .’ MaM : Where did the name Few Blue come from for the band? Cam : For a long time, we have tried to come up with a meaning to tell people about the name, but it is just from a random word generator. None of us could think of anything at first, so one of the names the guys threw out was “Piraha”. (laughter) They wanted to be different and stand out, but obviously, “no” with that name. (laughter) My drummer, Rob, had this random word generator and was messing with it. These two words pop up each time, and you must decide which word to keep and which to toss. So, it generates the word “few” and another word. He liked “few”, and then “blue” came up, and we liked it, but it was a bit of a tongue twister, but I think it’s different from what we’re seeing around us. Fleetwood Mac probably sounded like a terrible name at some point but look at what the name means now. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Right?! So, what made you want to pursue the type of music you play? Cam : My background is a little crazier and different than the guys. The guys are all about classic rock legends and own tons of vinyl. I did musical theater growing up. That’s where I get my confidence and stage presence from. I was not a musical theater kid, but I did musical theater. Does that make sense? It was an excellent outlet for me. I wouldn't say I liked the acting part, but I loved the dancing because it was fun and carefree. Through the years, I found that ABBA was my favorite music for musical theater. I always pick the ABBA songs for karaoke and whatnot when I sing. When the guys said they did classic rock, though, I had to convince them to blend a little of my style with theirs, but finding the perfect mix is doing what I do now. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Your sound is big. What is it about music that makes you feel so passionate? Cam : I get an adrenaline rush going on stage, and it is just a feeling. It’s my outlet I could not live without, and I’ve written poetry for years since I was a kid, but I would sit down with my ukulele and put all these puzzle pieces together through song while staying genuine and authentic with what I wanted to say. I love all the alliteration and wordplay with music, too. I feel emotions deeply, also, and I’ve always been a writer. It’s just something I need to do. Even if no one hears it. MaM : What’s your favorite song to perform? Cam : Right now, it differs, but ‘Zombie’ by The Cranberries is one of them. We rock that song up enough to where everyone is headbanging, and it sits so perfectly in my range that I can easily let it all out and scream. It's such a fun song to perform. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : What would you say your songs are primarily about, and how would you describe your music to a random stranger if you were trying to sell it? Cam : We love rock music and are just trying to pay homage to our inspirations, but lyrically, we’re just telling a story, and people are relating to it. Heartbreak and tough times will always be an influence, but ‘ So Damn Wrong ’ is about a bad relationship at the time. A bad guy and a good girl trying to make things work. It’s so damn wrong, but it could be right, and she’s not gonna wait for ya. That’s exactly how I felt at the time, too. ‘ Call Me Crazy ’ stemmed from high school and relationships with the message that if you’re not crazy, are you really in love? At that point, just call me crazy because I am in love, and I’m crazy. I’m sure a lot of the lyrics are from boys pissing me off. (laughter) MaM : Life experiences. Cam : Exactly, life experiences. MaM : Life experiences make the best art! Tell me about your worst and best performance so far. Cam : So, our worst performance … we got hired to do a private event, and as you know, in the south, the rivalries go hard. At this event, half of the LSU people and half of the Alabama people were there. The two parties didn’t quite know each other well, so when it came to the music being played, we weren’t told much. In fact, about a week before the event, we were told we needed to learn a bunch of new songs. The problem was that the girl who hired me was for LSU, so I started singing more Baton Rouge-based songs like ‘ Calling Baton Rouge ’ and ‘ Louisiana Saturday Night’ because I was ready to get people going. At one point during the party, one of the Alabama people came up to me because they said I was only singing LSU songs, and they wanted Alabama songs. We didn’t mean to do anything wrong, so at one point, I even got on the mic to tell people we would play whatever they wanted to hear. It was just one of those events where you don’t have enough information and then shoot yourself in the foot once you get there. It was so awkward. We packed up early because the Alabama people wanted us to stop playing and turn on other music. The best performance … there are quite a few. We just played at FLORA BAMA , and they scheduled us for the 6:30 p.m. -10:00 p.m. spot, which is a fantastic spot to have. I’ve done that spot with another band before because it was a great spot, but once we played the 10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., it was just insanely packed. There were people all the way to the back, and all were engaged with us the entire time. I’d tell them to put their hands up, and everyone had their hands up. It was phenomenal! Everyone was so into it. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Have any other musicians ever given you any advice, and if so, what was it? Cam : I talked to Randy Jackson from Zebra , and it was so surreal since the guys in the band love them. Zebra means something to me. I finally got to meet Randy Jackson because my music teacher is friends with him. He gave me advice on how to preserve my voice. I used to have this very princess-sounding falsetto voice, which I still do, but it’s changed because I’m screaming so much on stage. I’m learning to control it. He told me some excellent singing advice, told me to drink grapefruit juice, and told me tea dehydrates you, too. I have talked to older bands on the scene, too; everyone has told me not to worry about what I’m writing and to write what I feel. Credit: Gary Governale MaM : Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with in the future, and if so, who? Cam : David Shaw and the Revivalists . Our drummer, Rob, has gone to so many of their shows. Rob and I are close, so if we sit around and need some cheering up, he’ll play their music for me. It’s special to me—dream collaboration. MaM : What do you have going on for the rest of the year, and where do you see yourselves headed in the future? Cam : We’re trying to get some new music out by the end of 2024 / early 2025. We have a few more shows scheduled at FLORA BAMA , some others, Southport Hall , Rock N Bowl , etc. We’re booked through the year's end so you can catch us somewhere. We play almost every weekend. We’re just going to be putting our heads down and grinding. Everyone is so passionate about moving the band forward, and it’s not easy, but we’re doing it. Credit: Gary Governale As Few Blue continues to grind it out on the local scene and beyond, they stand poised to influence a new generation of music lovers with a refreshing sound that can only be attributed to the cohesive energy found within this well-rounded and talented group of musicians. With a busy rest of 2024, be sure to try and catch a show with this up-and-coming act before they sell out stadiums worldwide. To learn more about Few Blue: New Orleans Young Band - Live Music ( fewblue.com ) *Cover photo by Gary Governale www.governalephotovideo.com Zenfolio | Home I have been working as a video professional since 1993, with a wide range of experience writing, producing, directing, shooting and editing. A strong interest in videography, specifically lighting and composition, led me to photography in 1998. Rapidly changing technology has blurred the line between video and photography, allowing me to work in both mediums.. Baton Rouge, LA, United States Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next

< Back Reviews On the Real: Everfelt Soars with New Single ‘Reach’ Nicole Brice Aug 20, 2024 Share ‘Reach’ is a powerful exploration of longing and hope. In 2022, a Psychedelic Rock band called EverFelt came onto my radar. I could not discern any definitive influences or sounds after listening to their music for the first time. It was so different. It was unique. Fast-forward to 2024, and EverFelt is still making new music and driving forward. Every time I scroll my socials, I see at least one or two posts from EverFelt, either promoting a show or an upcoming release or just spreading the love for those in the industry who are taking notice. EverFelt is one of the hardest-working bands out there, and I feel this next EP, to be released in September, will finally get them the recognition they deserve. Credit: Facebook Vocalist Adam Steglich has said of EverFelt’s sound, “I feel we have evolved with the introduction of our new drummer. It’s given us the ability to have the timing to slow the songs down more and create that psychedelic vibe that we were going for in the beginning.” The band comprises well-seasoned musicians, and the current line-up has Adam Steglich on vocals, Corey Robinson on lead guitar, Jacob Crawford on rhythm guitar, Jason Hensgen on bass, and Ryan Smelcer as the drummer bringing it all together. EverFelt’s latest single, ‘ Reach ,’ was released on August 8, 2024. It hooks you from the first listen and does not let up for six minutes and twenty-three seconds. Having constructed an elaborate song full of groove and sludge, expect your head to nod as the song progresses slowly with a killer guitar part until Adam’s vocals start in, only to trap you at 2:30, where this insanely beautiful guitar solo begins. The best way to describe Adam Steglich’s vocals is that they are reminiscent of the iconic Peter Murphy from Bauhaus . He has excellent control over his voice, and I cannot recall anyone who sounds exactly like him. The Peter Murphy comparison is the best I can do. With lyrics exploring the themes of longing and hope, ‘ Reach ’ is a song that gets ingrained in your brain, and I genuinely enjoy this latest incarnation of EverFelt. Their sound wasn’t quite as polished when these guys started, but I’ve been fortunate to see them evolve. I think they have finally carved out a signature sound with all the new material set to release on September 7, 2024, so stay tuned. In the meantime, there is plenty to explore from EverFelt, but I feel the best is yet to come if they continue their current trajectory. The rest of 2024 is shaping up to be incredibly busy for the band, too, with numerous shows booked and a clear and concise vision of how they want to approach 2025 and beyond. Credit: Facebook “We hope people can relate to our music and love it like we do, but we don’t want you to only relate to the dark tone. No, we want to show you the door we’ve found, which is EverFelt”, says lead vocalist Adam Steglich. The production on ‘ Reach ’ is top-notch, and the mix sounds great. The song invites you to close your eyes and get lost in the sounds, offering a brief escape from reality. After reading this review, I invite you to do just that. ‘ Reach ’ is now streaming on all platforms. To learn more about EverFelt, just hit one of the links below. Spotify : EverFelt | Spotify Apple Music : ‎ ‎EverFelt - Apple Music Website : EverFelt Facebook : EverFelt | Facebook Instagram : EverFelt (@everfelt_music) • Instagram photos and videos Questions or comments? Reach out to mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next

< Back Melodic and Atmospheric Hailing from Manchester: What Will Be Nicole Brice Mar 21, 2023 Share A Nod to the 90's When one thinks of the music of Manchester, many bands come to mind, such as The Stone Roses, Oasis, and The Smiths, or, if you like more of the punk vibe, then the Buzzcocks will come to mind. If there is one thing that is certain, though, no two bands from Manchester sound alike, and this next band definitely continues this tradition. Hailing from Manchester, UK is What Will Be. These guys came onto the music scene in 2019 and wrote and self-released their self-titled EP, which debuted in September 2022. credit: Hannah Reeves Their new single “Something More” was released earlier this month and is currently available on all streaming platforms. The newest single is an enjoyable mix of melodic rock with an outstanding mix of larger-than-life guitars, sing-along melodies, and atmospheric synth chords and is a truly solid offering from this five-piece Alternative Rock band. What Will Be is Bram (guitar/vocals), Jonny (guitar), James (bass/vocals), JK (drums/vocals), and Chris (keyboard/piano). Upon discovering their music, because we dig it so much, we had a few questions for them, so let us share with you a little more on this pretty bad-ass band from the UK with an uncommonly catchy sound. credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : With a strong nod to 90’s alternative, who would you cite as your influences to make music? What Will Be : In terms of bands from the 90s, we’d say Incubus and Deftones would be two of our main influences. However, we’re also inspired by newer bands, such as Alter Bridge and City and Colour/Alexisonfire. credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : Vocals – your vocals are very different, and I can hear a tinge of David Byron from Uriah Heep within them. Who are your vocal inspirations, and why? What Will Be : Vocal-wise, our main influences would be Brandon Boyd of Incubus and Miles Kennedy of Alter Bridge. In terms of why it would come down to the bands you listen to most would be the inspiration, I think in terms of vocally, their range is like what I can do with my voice. While these bands might be heavier musically, their vocal stylings are what inspire us with the music we create, even if it’s not as ‘heavy.’ credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : What type of guitars are the band’s preferred ones to play and why? What Will Be : Bram uses Chapman and PRS guitars. Jonny uses Fender and Gibson guitars. Dual humbucker coil tapped, on occasion … hollow body and solid body guitars. We like guitars with a thicker, higher output sound. MaM: What pedals / gear was used in the recording of the newest material? The guitar sound is incendiary and distinctive. What Will Be: Live we use Moore Shimmer Pro, Marshall modulation pedal, Maxon OD 808 and a boss delay. Recording we use the above but Marshall/Blackstar plugins. These give us our unique guitar tone, which seems to separate us from other bands in sound. credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : You have an interesting band name. Where did the inspiration behind the band name come from? What Will Be : We’re a little bit older in terms of life experience than most ‘new’ bands. Lots of different names were in consideration; however, as its probably our last stab at ‘trying to make it,’ the name reflects a certain type of fate. We just uttered the famous line, ‘What will be, will be,’ and that’s how it came about. credit: Hannah Reeves MaM : What led to the formation of the band? Give us a little more history on the beginnings. What Will Be : We’ve been in bands together for years from the ages of 16 onwards, then over the years bands come and go, but we all remained friends. A few years ago in James’s back garden, we jammed a few acoustic ideas Bram had, and things snowballed from there until 2019 when we added a different dynamic with Chris our keyboardist. Since then, we became an alternative unique five-piece band. Experiencing What Will Be is a must for any music lover and appreciator. Be sure to visit their links below and explore all you can about these guys. Then, hit ‘em up with some love and support, no matter where in the world you are, Carmen Sandiego. Rock on. What Will Be (@ whatwillbe.band ) • Instagram photos and videos Profile / Twitter What Will Be | Manchester ( facebook.com ) What Will Be - Single by What Will Be | Spotify Questions or comments? Reach out to the_nicolebrice@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next

< Back Sidetracks Music Hall by Bud Gambrell: Book Review Nicole Brice Sep 20, 2023 Share Bud Gambrell has compiled a journey through music in “Sidetracks Music Hall”—a memoir rich with local history When Bud Gambrell first contacted me to read his newly published book about the now-defunct Sidetracks Music Hall in Huntsville, Alabama, I had never heard of it … but I was intrigued. After reading the meticulously orchestrated memoir from cover to cover, I became engrossed in the history behind a truly unique establishment that not only touched the hearts of the patrons who frequented the space but also had a lasting impact on the musicians who played there. “Sidetracks Music Hall” offers a unique perspective on the magic of those live performances and on the lasting impact of the energy the space provided. Bud’s attention to detail in firsthand accounts from musicians, employees, and fans presents an engaging book that leaves no stone unturned and immerses readers in the vibrant atmosphere that was Sidetracks Music Hall. Though only open for a few years, the venue had a huge impact on the area that persists even today and is felt in the narratives of local musicians and patrons who offer a rare glimpse into the passion and dedication that goes into running a music establishment. Released June 8, 2023 The narrative of “Sidetracks Music Hall” seamlessly intertwines Gambrell’s personal anecdotes with the historical evolution of the music space, and through his encounters with renowned musicians—both big names and rising stars—the author offers readers an intimate glimpse into the creative process and the inner workings of the music and restaurant industry. What sets “Sidetracks Music Hall” apart is Gambrell’s ability to paint vivid portraits of the artists he met. From poetic songwriters to energetic performers, Bud captures the essence of their unique musical styles and personalities in moments that provide an intimate connection between the reader and the musicians, evoking a deeper appreciation for their craft. Gambrell’s attention to detail pulls the reader into the heart of what Sidetracks Music Hall was, not just to the locals, but to the artists and musicians who frequently took the stage there. It is worth noting that while “Sidetracks Music Hall” beautifully captures the spirit of live music, it also touches upon the challenges faced by the industry. Photo courtesy of Bud Gambrell “Sidetracks Music Hall” is a compelling memoir that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the world of live music in Alabama. Through evocative storytelling and insightful reflections, Gambrell not only pays homage to various musicians but also sheds light on the unique power of live performances. Whether you’re a devoted music fan or are just simply curious about the magic that happens on stage, this book will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the music that moves us all. In order to get a better feel for the love behind the narrative, I reached out to Bud, who’s also a photographer, for a deeper knowledge of the lasting legacy Sidetracks Music Hall has provided. MaM : Thank you for taking the time to chat with us today. Give us a little background info on you. BG : Well, if I go back to the very beginning, I was born in Louisiana but raised in North Alabama. I’ve been a music lover my entire life and have actually been accused of being a music snob a few times. I’ve looked it up in the Urban Dictionary, too, and the first definition of it is definitely me. I’ve been going to concerts for a long time, and when they first opened Sidetracks Music Hall, I didn’t know that much about it. I knew that they were trying to cater to original bands and musicians, but one day I just started going and it just kind of became a second home to me. It just had something about the place … this aura. It’s hard to explain if you weren’t there, but the atmosphere was amazing. MaM : What gave you the idea to write and compile your book? BG : I actually got my idea when I was at Sidetracks last year. I was there shooting Ace Monroe and I was talking to the road manager. We were discussing my coming up to shoot a show they were playing at the EXIT/IN, and we were sitting at the bar, and I saw a book for this venue right there and the idea came from those who had chronicled and circled back all these bands and acts that had played EXIT/IN. It was around this time, too, that I found out Sidetracks was closing. Various logos of Sidetracks over the years MaM: How long did it take you to compile everything? BG : Well, I started on the book, and within a month, Sidetracks closed. September 4, 2022, was the last night. By the first of October, I had already started doing interviews and talking to people. Around the holidays, though, I almost abandoned it because it was so much, but by the first of the year, I told myself that I needed to finish it. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it, but the inspiration came about because of my love for the place. It was a true labor of love. MaM : You mentioned photography earlier. Give us a little more info about your work in that arena. BG : Well, I’ve always been a hobby shutterbug ... I remember being in the Boy Scouts and taking pictures with a camera, but I can’t remember the model, and they don’t make them anymore, but it was a Kodak shaped like a box and you had to look down through the top of it and there was a thumb button to take the pictures. So, I would take those cameras on camping trips, and I’ve always had some type of camera around, but three years ago in 2020, to keep from going stir crazy, I got a drone and started with that. Several people told me the photos and videos from it were great and that I should become a professional and the next thing I knew, I was starting a photography business. Ace Monroe with Bud Gambrell at Sidetracks Music Hall. All of the photos on the wall behind them were shot by Bud. MaM : So, where do you like to shoot? BG : Right now, I shoot some local stuff at some bars, but a good bit of what I’m doing is at our local civic center. They’ve got four rooms there, and you’re shooting photos and listening to music, so it never feels like work. I got to shoot Joe Satriani last year, which was a dream show, and I’ve shot Gov’t Mule, Warren Haynes, and ZZ Top, too. Joe Satriani - photo by Bud Gambrell MaM : So, as far as all the bands and musicians that performed at Sidetracks over the years, who was your favorite to see and shoot? BG : Damon Johnson is one. I’ve been a fan of his for over 29 years, since his first or second album came out, and I’ve never had a chance to see him live until he played Sidetracks. Them Dirty Roses was another one, which I mention them a good bit in the book. There are so many, honestly, but if I had to pick just one, it would be Tab Benoit . I’ve actually got a picture on my office wall that I took of him, had blown up, and then had him sign it. MaM : How would you say Sidetracks Music Hall touched you personally? What takeaways do you have from the entire experience of seeing live music performed there? BG : It was the atmosphere. It had a home vibe and just always felt head and shoulders above everyone else. You know, there were nights I would go there by myself, and it was never a consideration whether I should or not because it always felt safe. It felt like home. Some nights, I could go and know half the people there, and some nights I didn’t, but by the end of the night I did. I wasn’t intentionally looking for a new place to hang out when I found Sidetracks, but the more I started going there, the more I realized how awesome the place was. It had this Cheers- type vibe where everyone knew your name, and to be honest, I don’t think I ever saw one fight the entire time I was there. I saw a lot of funny stuff, but never anything bad. Nobody at Sidetracks was ever in a bad mood. To experience the nostalgia of Sidetracks Music Hall yourself and to learn more about the establishment, Bud Gambrell’s book “Sidetracks Music Hall” is currently available for purchase on Amazon. The link is below, so be sure to check it out! The book is currently available via paperback, hardcover, and on Kindle. Side Tracks Music Hall: Gambrell, Bud: 9798396341999: Amazon.com: Books Nicole Brice loves to read. She has tons of books everywhere in her house. Do you have a creation you’d like us to check out? E-mail your suggestion to: mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next

< Back Blood Machines: Book Review Shaun Corley Dec 13, 2023 Share “Blood Machines is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes and cliches, using the creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state. Depending on whom you talk to, the vampire is either a potent metaphor or is derivative and “done to death”. A quick look around the pop culture landscape shows compelling evidence for both sides of the argument. On one end are classic books of the genre, such as Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” or Richard Matheson’s “I Am Legend”, which do not glorify vampires but instead show them for the fearsome creatures they are. On the other end we have works, such as " Twilight" or " The Vampire Academy" , that play up the more sexual aspects of vampire mythology and add a layer of luster to the undead. And then there is the novel “Blood Machines”, which uses the blood-lusting creatures to explore the concept of a surveillance state . While also the subject of numerous films, vampires have made their way to television as well in shows like True Blood and What We Do in the Shadows . They even star in video games, such as the mega-popular “Castlevania” series and “Vampire: The Masquerade”, a popular role-playing game centered around vampire clans. Those who argue that vampires are still relevant point to the creature as a potent allegory for issues of class and sexuality; Anne Rice’s seminal “Interview with the Vampire” touched on these themes, as did Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of Stoker’s original novel. Commentators who believe the vampire to be cliche use the shallow and superficial nature of works like " Twilight" as evidence for their argument. They believe that these works strip the vampire of its literary power, instead focusing solely on the sexuality element at the expense of other themes. While the two sides continue to debate with no satisfactory answer in sight, J.K. Gravier has slipped under everyone’s radar with the excellent “Blood Machines” . This novel, which deftly mixes the police procedural genre with elements of vampire lore, imparts new symbolic importance to the creatures . “Blood Machines” is set in an alternate America, where vampires have begun entering mainstream society. The vampires of “Blood Machines” are not sexy, they do not turn into bats, and a bite from one will not convert their victim. Gravier does not dwell on the nature of the vampires too much, instead opting to focus on world building and exploring the ramifications of such creatures in the real world. “Blood Machines” follows Allison Drew, a vampire (or “sanguinarian” as they are called throughout) working for the federal government. As part of their efforts to assimilate into the larger world, they have created the Vampire Bureau of Investigations. This agency, working closely with the FBI, polices vampires. Drew is sent to Detroit to investigate a series of murders where the victim's blood was drained. There she uncovers a massive conspiracy, stretching all the way to the highest echelons of the VBI … and the FBI. At every turn, Gravier subverts vampire tropes and cliches . As mentioned earlier, Gravier’s vampires lack many of the creature’s traditional powers, such as the ability to turn to mist or the ability to “charm” someone. These vampires can come out during the day, although it requires sunscreen and special clothing. Gravier even downplays the very word “vampire”, as some prefer to label themselves “sanguinarians”. Gravier also dispenses with a great deal of vampire lore, stripping it down to its bare essence and injecting it with new life. Playing around with these tropes allows Gravier to discuss issues of surveillance and the police state . Allison Drew learns that both the VBI and the FBI have plans to implement a tracking system for vampires, one that would allow various agencies to keep tabs on them. The novel does not make it clear if this surveillance program would carry over to humans, but the implication is there. In “Blood Machines”, vampires also become a metaphor for race and class . Allison and her vampire friends existed on the margins for centuries, only making gains within the past 100 years. Their march into the mainstream has been slow, and they are still greeted with suspicion and fear. It is not a stretch to see Drew and her fellow vampires as stand-ins for any oppressed and marginalized groups. “Blood Machines” also explores the nature of the police state, and the relationship between law enforcement and the people they are pledged to serve. It does not glorify the police work Allison does. Her colleagues are corrupt, and the novel heavily implies this corruption goes all the way up the ladder. “Blood Machines” contains themes of the erosion of civil liberties and the rise of the surveillance state , which resonate loudly in today’s world. Numerous novels, television shows, and movies have centered themselves around these issues, some of them with nothing really new to say. With “Blood Machines”, J.K. Gravier takes vampires—which are often dismissed as “overexposed”—and uses them to talk about these very themes. The end result is a highly creative vampire novel that subverts tropes left and right. “Blood Machines” is currently available for your reading pleasure. To learn more about J.K Gravier and “Blood Machines”, visit any of the below listed links and be sure to leave a solid review. The book is worth it, especially if you’re a vampire fan. J.K. Gravier | Author Info “Blood Machines” | Amazon “Blood Machines” | Barnes & Noble “Blood Machines” on Audible Shaun Corley is an East Coast pop culture enthusiast who loves to write about everything entertainment. A big, important Screen Rant writer, Shaun has many leather-bound books, which are far outnumbered by comics and the smell of rich mahogany. Previous Next

< Back Endure the Affliction: Music to Empower Mind, Body, and Soul Je'an-Paul Keller Jul 31, 2023 Share Lafayette’s progressive metal and metalcore band delivers heavy sounds with spicy lyrics Coming up August 19, 2023, Louisiana’s own metal core/progressive metal band Endure the Affliction are set to perform at Rad Fest 2023 at PARC International in Lafayette, Louisiana. They are the second in our installment of interviews with all the acts on the bill. These guys are the new face of progressive metal/metalcore in the area and if you’re not familiar with them yet, you soon will be. Endure the Affliction is a well-orchestrated mixture of progressive metal and metalcore that embodies melodic metal and embraces their Louisiana roots. This five-piece group of talented musicians formed the band in 2018 in Lafayette, Louisiana, and currently consists of Deion Lanthier on guitar and vocals, Ryan Tyler on lead vocals, Brett Dronet on guitar, Joshua Domingue on bass, and Kyle Roberts on drums. credit: Chad Besse A sound reminiscent of true, deep southern darkness metalcore, Endure the Affliction belts out a powerful and passionate message that will shake your soul to its very core. They have been through different member line-ups and many personal hardships through the years, but those experiences taught them how to endure all of the afflictions the world throws at them. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, their lyrics are about overcoming hardships in life such as suicide, racism, and drug addiction, just to name a few. Their music video for the song "Identity" demonstrates the battles inside we all struggle with on a daily basis. The powerful riffs of the dueling guitars and soaring vocals are so intense, they’ll have you on the edge of your seat wanting more. Their listeners have told them they are a gateway into the wonderful world of metalcore, and I, for one, could not agree more. Their EPs “Origins” and “Evolve” are full of so much energy, they’ll leave you feeling motivated to conquer all roadblocks that you face. Exactly the type of music one wants to hear on any given day. Recently, I had the chance to sit down with vocalist and guitarist Deion Lanthier, where he told me some great stories about the band’s history and took the time to explain the band’s overall message, which is focused on healing and feeling uplifted. These albums will empower your mind, body, and soul for the greater good. Check out our conversation below, then go listen to their music. You won’t regret it! Deion Lanthier - Photo credit Chad Besse MaM : Who or what has inspired your sound? Deion : Well, it’s kind of hard to say. We’ve been through a few original members. Originally, the idea was to be like a cross between hard rock and metalcore, but it ended up not being that because we all have different influences. Originally, with the original singer being … an older guy, he was more influenced by the classical heavy metal, where the rest of us are more influenced by metalcore-type of stuff—maybe a little bit of Djent—but we really don’t try to sound like anybody too much. We just kind of do our thing. Whatever we write, if we like it, then we just roll with it. Everything’s always middle, of course, but we just gotta roll with it. We all have a bunch of different influences. MaM : Primarily what was your main influence? Deion : The biggest influence for me, personally, … would probably be All That Remains, because that was the first metalcore band I heard. They definitely had a lasting impact on me and a big influence on the way that I write music. MaM : How did you form? And how did you meet the other members of the band? Deion : Well, it was me and the original drummer that started the band together, but it was weird. I didn't know the guy but I saw him on Facebook, and I mistook him for someone that I went to school with. I was like, ‘Hey, man! I didn't know you played drums,’ and I guess he got confused too, because he was talking to me like he knew me. So, we didn't find out until a few messages later [that] we don't actually know each other. Then I said, ‘Hey, you want to start a band together?’ I was looking for a second project at the time. I was actually in one project at that time that wasn't really making too much progress. So, that's how we got started. credit: Chad Besse MaM : I take it everybody catches on pretty quickly and everybody gets into the groove? Deion : Oh, yeah, absolutely. We all have really good chemistry, and everybody is very, like I said, very talented. Everybody brings their own unique influence, and everybody's great songwriters. That's the most important part, right? MaM : So you all contribute to it. It's kind of like the band Queen, where everybody just puts in their own influences and brings everything to the table, huh? Deion : Oh, yeah, absolutely. Generally the process would be for me or the other guitarist, but we come up with the melodies on guitar first, and then the drummer puts the drums to it. Then, bass and vocals [have to] get written next and need to get written simultaneously. But, it's very guitar driven, usually. Once we have the bass line down, everybody just kind of makes suggestions, and we go from there. So, it's definitely all-five-members-in type of thing. MaM : Most definitely! What influences you to make music? Deion : OH, MAN! Just the love of it! But, aside from the generic answer? (laughs) I've been through a lot of things in life at an early age and music was really what helped me get through it all. Aside from the normal teenage angst, you know, I’ve been through some pretty dark stuff that I feel like if I wouldn't have had music, I wouldn't have been able to deal with it properly, maybe? Music helped me put my emotions into context. I think it helped me learn to manage my emotions and things like that … work my way through things. I want to be able to do that same thing for other people. That is what drives me to keep doing it. credit: Chad Besse MaM : Oh yeah, definitely. I noticed overcoming hardships is the driving force behind your music and in your message. What hardships do you think the listeners overall relate to the most? Deion: We've been told any time we talk about suicide, that's a pretty heavy topic for people, as well as the drug addiction songs that they really connect with—even the more generic songs, like one of our older ones called “Rise.” It's just about rising above a hard situation. Everybody really connected with that one. Even though it's a very broad message, they seem to like it a lot, and that’s something they say they don't get from metal a whole lot. So they're very surprised by it. They all kind of latch onto it. We take pride in that, and that's why we stick to it--even with the vocal exchange. The lyrics may be a little different, but the message is still the same. People seem to really like that positive message. Even though we talk about the darker side of things, we always try to lyrically make it to where you can come out of this bad situation, and you can get through it. MaM : Can you tell me more about the lyrics for “Identity”? Deion : Well it's both general and specific, because it's basically my life. I was a little selfish when I wrote it, but it's relatable because it's true. It's a little bit of racial-identity type of stuff but at the same time suicide attempts and drug addiction. I've been through all of that stuff. But, with the racial thing, I'm mixed, so I've had to deal with stupid stuff from both sides. I had an identity crisis growing up, and that's why it's called, “Identity.” It took me a long time to work that out … realizing that I didn't need to be that way for anyone else in particular. I needed to be who I wanted to be, regardless of what anybody else thought. Also political leanings and stuff like that. You can't let other people influence the type of person that you should be. You have to decide that for yourself. So that's pretty much what that song is about. It's a little all over the place but cohesive at the same time. I try to fit a little bit of everything in there. MaM : I totally identify with that one the most. Can I get a little background info on your band name? Deion : Endure the Affliction refers to the human condition—existence itself and the fact that you have no choice but to just endure it. You work your way through problems. You go through life. You figure it out, and that's just it. It's a simple message. It's just a fancy word. Fancy words to relay a simple message. MaM : Do you use any specific pedals to achieve y'all’s sound? Deion : Yeah, I use a Line 6 Helix. I have an EVH over an orange cab, but I plug my Line 6 Helix into that. Most people just use the Line 6 Helix by itself, but I don't do that. The other guitarist has a smaller version of that called the Line 6 POD GO. He uses that for all of his pedal stuff. We're the only two. The bassist uses a straight clean bass tone. He doesn't do any crazy stuff. MaM : You have 99 monthly followers on Spotify and it's growing. Do you think they relate to the overcoming hardships in the lyrics? Do you think that's what draws them in? Deion : I believe so. We talk to our fans, you know. We're not the rock-star diva type. We don't have a huge fan base, but when they come, they come. They show up, and we talk to them. They all say that that's the main thing they like about the music: The lyrics are relatable. They love that we're not black metal. Basically, we’re out there singing about stuff they can't relate to. I think, also, the draw is because we're so melodic for a metal band. A lot of our fans are people that don't listen to metal, believe it or not. We're kind of a gateway band locally. MaM : Any future plans and aspirations for the band? Deion : YES! We would like to tour. We plan on trying to do a little miniature tour at some point, maybe one or two weeks. Nothing fancy, but definitely that. We hope to release our third EP by October. We [have] a couple more songs to get written and recorded, then we'll be good to go. Nothing too big, besides RAD Fest, obviously. For more on Endure the Affliction, you can check them out at any of the below-listed links. For more on RAD Fest, click here . Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enduretheaffliction.la/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enduretheaffliction.la/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EndureTheAffliction Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0YkC97oMGPhF8ivqYFXHHo Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/endure-the-affliction/1471728402 Bandcamp: https://enduretheaffliction.bandcamp.com/ Je’an Paul Keller is a member of the 501st Legion and a huge sci-fi nerd. He’s also a HUGE music lover and is very passionate about drawing, sketching, painting, and making cosplays and movie-accurate costumes. Previous Next

< Back Dead Pit Ezekiel Kincaid Dec 8, 2022 Share The Underrated 80s Horror Movie You've Probably Forgotten About The year is 1990. Ten-year-old me is browsing the horror section one Friday night at Dixie Video, knowing good and well my parents aren't going to allow me to rent what I really want to watch. While perusing said shelves, I come across a video that makes me feel like Ralphie in A Christmas Story the first time he held his Red Rider BB gun. Dead Pit . On the cover, a zombie resembling Frankenstein crawls out of a pit, surrounded by a bunch of hands reaching out of the same hole. Behind him stalks more of the living dead. As you can see above, the color scheme is black and neon green. What made this case even more fascinating was that when you’d press the zombie, his eyes lit up! I was sold. Ten-year-old me had to see this movie! Ten-year-old me asked my parents. Ten-year-old me was told "no" because it was R rated. I had to wait a few years, but I finally got around to watching Dead Pit . As an adolescent, I remember liking the movie, but as time went on, the movie drifted into obscurity in my mind. Until a few years ago, when I was browsing Amazon Prime to find an 80s horror movie to pass the time. Lo and behold, what appeared! The memories surrounding this movie came flooding back. I was lost in nostalgia, wondering how in the world I could have forgotten about a movie like this. One euphoric memory after another tingled my soul. When the sensation ended, I went to my pantry, grabbed a jar of peanut butter, and commenced watching. And boy, was I glad I did! What's the movie about? Released in 1989, like most 80's horror, the plot is kind of silly. The psychotic Dr. Ramzi was walled up alive in a nuthouse. He had been caught performing experiments that involved one-part formaldehyde and one-part lobotomies. When he was done extracting the brains from his victims, he tossed the bodies into the pit. As his captors bricked him in and sealed him up, the crazy doctor swears he will get revenge on them. Jump ahead twenty years. Enter Jane Doe. She's admitted to the asylum for a bad case of amnesia. It just so happens that Jane Doe has some serious psychic powers. So powerful is she, that she awakens Dr. Ramzi from his sleep. Once awakened, Ramzi and Doe seem to share a psychic bond. Ramzi uses this bond to draw power from her to raise all his victims from the pit. Ramzi then sends out his zombie horde for revenge. This movie has some creative kills and descent 80s gore. There's also all the cheese that we've come to adore about 80s horror. My favorite (terribly cheesy) scene has to do with holy water and a water tower. Also, the zombies are somewhat intelligent, and they move fast. Overall, I enjoyed digging up this forgotten jewel of my childhood. If you're a fan of 80s horror, this is a must-see for you. Check it out now on Amazon while you still can! I’m an avid VHS collector and I’ve since been able to acquire a copy of Dead Pit (see pic below). The tape still works like a charm and the cover is in okay shape. The only down side is that the zombie eyes don’t light up. I’ve been trying to track down a copy with working LEDs, but I’ve had no luck. So, if any readers out there know where I can get a copy, hit me up! Until next time, keep it creepy, you bunch of freaks. Questions or comments? Send an email to the_keeleybrooks@mixedaltmag.com . Previous Next

What the hell did I just watch? Jan 25, 2024 Masked Mutilator Masked Mutilator combines horror and wrestling, making for the ultimate B-movie experience. Read More Nov 28, 2023 Death Toilet: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Death Toilet is a fun concept but is ultimately just a horrendous amalgamation of cheap cinematic techniques and really bad storytelling. Read More Sep 25, 2023 Dear God No!: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Dear God No! nails it and takes us back to the days of true grindhouse and 70’s exploitation. Read More Aug 28, 2023 Nude Nuns with Big Guns: What the Hell Did I Just Watch? Nude Nuns with Big Guns accurately captures the grindhouse feel but is riddled with lazy filmmaking Read More Aug 14, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Sharktopus vs Whalewolf Sharktopus vs Whalewolf has its moments but is ultimately a flop Read More Aug 2, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Alien Shark An entertaining movie with poor effects and multiple random plots Read More Jul 26, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Howling: New Moon Rising A werewolf movie so bad, you have to see it to believe it Read More Jul 10, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: Nekrotronic Nekrotronic is a fantastic sci-fi/horror mashup that fans of B movies will love Read More Mar 17, 2023 What the Hell Did I Just Watch: The Suckling Review This B-horror movie is so bad, it's B-movie gold Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More Read More

< Back Exploring Escapism: Hawthorne Oachs’ New Single is a Compelling Tale of Freedom Nicole Brice Jun 17, 2024 Share Runaway Bunny is an epic tale of strength and resilience. It’s rare and special when an artist’s music resonates with me on a deeply personal level. I can honestly say that it's been a while since I've been genuinely moved by a piece of music. However, last year, a young artist, musician, and actress captured my attention with her soul-stirring song, ' A Single Flower , ' and I have been a massive fan of hers ever since. Credit: Artist website At just 15 years old, Hawthorne Oachs is a free spirit unafraid to explore the depths of the human experience. Her advocacy for mental health is a testament to her courage and empathy, and her willingness to be raw and vulnerable in her music is truly inspiring. Her transparent, honest, and authentic lyrics have the power to make you think and cry, creating a unique and powerful dynamic in music. With wisdom exuding that of an old soul, Hawthorne’s latest song, released on June 6, 2024, “ Runaway Bunny ”, begins with an 80’s new wave synth vibe that transports you into a dreamlike sequence with angelic and haunting vocals. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, and at 1:48, when the twinkling synths come in, it builds even further until it ends so abruptly that you want more. This is, without a doubt, my favorite song from Hawthorne Oachs yet, and I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us in the future. Add this to your list of songs to check out NOW! I recommend going down that rabbit hole if you have never experienced Hawthorne’s music. This is only the beginning for this remarkable young artist. Click the picture to experience "Runaway Bunny". Hawthorne Oachs can be found on: Website : https://www.hawthorneoachs.com Linktree : https://linktr.ee/hawthorneoachs Spotify : Hawthorne Oachs | Spotify YouTube : https://youtu.be/Cnrd0bbJ9fE?si=MJEYDUrrhLcBruOP Questions or comments? Hit us up at mixedalternativemag@gmail.com . Previous Next