Modern Chemistry Debut Video for the new single "Never Scared".

New Brunswick's Modern Chemistry have debuted a video for the single "Never Scared". After a couple of years of reviewing outstanding EP's. I finally had the opportunity to see them live at The Court Tavern back in February. Check it out here or go directly to 

You Tube to view. The choice is yours. James Damion

Modern Chemistry Bandcamp

Hounds Basket - Delusions of Grandeur EP

It's never a good sign when your half way into a records first song before you realize you're listening to a Doors cover. What's just as bad, if not worse, is finally realizing that it's actually not a cover. Brooklyn's Hounds Basket self described mix of alternative, grunge, stoner metal come together rather nicely.

This seven song EP opens with 'Melatonin' and 'Master Plan'. Two sludgy stoners that would best serve as the closers.
It's not until the cleverly titled 'She's a Nihilist' riffs kick in 'til the ears perk up and wake me from my slumber.
'Dazed and Amused'
and 'Delusions of Grandeur' follow with similar results. Excellent metal rippers that really highlight the bands ability and promise. Strangely though, 'it's When in Rome' the records closer that is by far the EP's strongest song. Though it shares the sludgy stoner influences of the opening tracks. It's mammoth sound and grinding power have an incredible effect on the ears. There's some serious Alice in Chains love going on here. Though I'm not sold on 'Delusions of Grandeur'. I'm glad I stayed long enough to here the entire package. I'm cautiously optimistic about the bands future. James Damion

Hound Basket  Bandcamp

 

Montclair's Meatlocker Offer Punk Rage for the Under Aged

Saturday night I headed up Route 3 to Montclair's Meatlocker to see These Branches, Polyphony and Archie Alone to name just a few. During the week I got two invitations to the show and though I didn't see Archie Alone on the bill with the other bands. I was assured they would be playing. As I entered the club I was greeted by the shows booker and Archie Alone guitarist Cindy Ward. I really enjoyed the bands set in Clifton and thought it would be the perfect time to tell her. I guess I was talking to long because I began to get a mouthful from the Meatlocker's tough little door enforcer Ana. Cindy introduced me and I paid my way before she had any chance to draw blood. I really liked her tough girl attitude and swagger. It got to a point where I wasn't sure if I wanted to smack her in the head or kiss her. I decided instead not to risk any broken bones and headed downstairs.

ELI

Eli were the first band I caught. It was also my first hint that I had unknowingly entered a costume party. There were a group of young teenage girls dressed as if they were returning from a cast party for "The Great Gatsby". One of them managed to step on each of my feet as I stood by the wall. (You know what they say
"Big feet, Big ...) As the band began their set I immediately noticed the guitarist was wearing a Grateful Dead shirt. The plot thickened. I began to hope for candy and heavily spiked punch.
Eli's set was short, stationary and underwhelming. A cover of Nirvana's "Breed"
I was a little disappointed when at the end of their set the guitarist threw his guitar down .
I couldn't help but think, "I bet his parents paid a lot for that shit."

Christina the Astonishing 

Next up were Christina the Astonishing. As the band began setting up their gear the costume party theme got upped a few levels when the bands singer took the stage looking like he just got off tour with the Casualties. The Reagan Youth jean jacket patch immediately caught my attention. Being that he was so young, I couldn't help but wonder if he knew much about the bands legacy and tragic ending. Or if he just recently caught the newer version that's playing dress up these days. Quickly the band launched into their set. Their all out singer racing around like a crazed teen. Launching himself into the crowd, jumping off amps as he sang wild abandon. The really stupid part came when he struggled to pick up a cinderblock that sat behind the stage. Barely able to lift it above his waste, he launched into the crowd. Lucky for us it only landed about three inches beyond his feet. "Hit the gym kid." I laughed. Amongst their own songs the band did covers of Green Day's "Basket Case" and The Ramones "Blitzkrieg Bop". Regardless of any silliness and youthful hijinks on part of the band they were pretty damn good. It made me think of how I was once a fourteen year old punk. The truth is I wasn't cool enough to actually have a band.
Christina the Amazing took it up a notch.
Christina the Astonishing

Though I was quite disappointed having missed These Branches and Polyphony due to the fact that they played in some alternate show in an all to alternative room at the Meatcave.
I was really looking forward to seeing Archie Alone. I'd seen and heard the band for the very first time over at Clifton's Dingbatz a little over a week before and was thoroughly impressed with their set. See Review

While their set at Clifton's Dingbatz was certainly an eye opener for me. The bands Meatlocker performance was an absolute revelation.

Tony Mastrolia - Archie Alone

Continuing with the nights costume theme guitarist
Pete Lepore wore creepy skeleton makeup that reminded me of the dance scene from Karate Kid meets Heath Ledger's Joker role in Batman. However the unanimous winner of
"Best and most ridiculously sweaty costume would definitely have to go to
Archie Alone bassist
Tony Mastrolia's teletubbies suit. Wearing that suit was imaginative and ballsy to say the least. The mans tolerance for heat and for heat and discomfort should be taken to NASA for testing.

Archie Alone

The band describes themselves as melodic punk, an influence that can be found in Nicole Mesce's emotional vocal delivery. It's the guitar work of Cindy Ward and
Pete Lapore that really give the band a harder edge. Their set was was filled with an intense energy that took the entire show to another level. Giving it a sense of authenticity that I felt took things from a high school battle of the bands vibe to a gritty basement show feel. I found myself being transported to the days when I take the trek from Manhattan to some undisclosed basement show at John Hilt'z House (Born Against, Greyhouse drummer) or any random intimate basement setting. Seeing Archie Alone twice in such a short time span has been very rewarding.
Archie Alone

Aliens on the Wall

Aliens on the Wall followed continued the uplifting party vibe that seemed to be building with each band.
I really enjoyed the bands straight forward punk sound. Guttural vocals, an aggressive guitar and a rumbling rhythm section gave the band a cool edge I really liked. The bands sound was tight. They gave off a very positive energy. One which the crowd fed off. Their cover of The Killers
"Mr. Brightside" caught me by surprise considering it wasn't nearly as old as the others I heard during the show. I guess it could be attributed to both the bands taste and age. Regardless, it had everyone singing in unison.
Aliens on the Walls

By the time Aliens on the Wall were finished with their set. The Meatlocker

was in a celebratory mood I had never seen before.

That's when Cindy turned to me and told me how amazing the next band was.

Archie Alone's Cindy Ward with The Racer

It was one of those "Don't blink, you don't want to miss this." moments. Suddenly members of The Racer started to assemble the strage outfitted in full Cobra Kai (check Karate Kid) gear.
I kept thinking,
"Sweep the leg" "No mercy" and on and on. Then the music started and I got completely swept up in the frenetic energy of the music and the crowd. It was as if my feet were raised off the floor.
I wasn't caught up in something. I was a part of something. It was as if there were eight hundred people standing behind me. Each one sing, dancing and caught in whatever rapture I found myself caught up in. It was an amazing experience all around.
The Racer

A Boy Named John

Finishing the long night was
A Boy Named John.
The Parsipany five piece kept the uplift mofo party plan going just a little longer. Already exhausted from from a night of teenage angst I was more than ready to take my old ass home. Looking back I'm really glad I decided to say. The band played an excellent set of high energy pop rock that delivered just the right amount of energy to get home.
A Boy Named John

Thanks to Cindy for booking the show and being a great host. I had a great time.

Over and Out,
James Damion

An Eclectic Mix Gathers at Montclair's Meatlocker

As I entered Montclair's dark, cavernous dungeon The Meatloacker. I thought to myself the same thing I think each and every time I enter the towns long standing ass in the wall. "What the fuck an I doing here?" It was almost 10:00 pm and much of nothing was taking place. After standing around for a couple of minutes I headed back to my car and started the engine. Lucky for me, I changed my mind once again and decided to go back. The following is what transpired.

I was not the least bit familiar with Old Bridge, New Jersey's The Luna Laval and twenty minutes after they had taken the stage, I still wasn't absolutely sure if what I was witnessing was a prolonged sound check or the bands actual set. To be perfectly honest, if it turned out that sound check happened to be their set, I would have been just as impressed. The band played a a complex musical style that somehow escapes a lot of the trappings of genre addicted listeners. A trait that can both open and close doors for a lot of bands, depending on the listener. As I stood there I found myself somewhat mesmerized by Tom Risi's tasty Bass play and overall movement.
Though the bass has become my most appreciated instrument in recent years.
I find most of my favorite players are too often, stationary musicians who blend into the background, rather than the forefront. Risi's movement and presence reminded me fondly of Nate Mendel (Foo Fighters,
Sunny Day Real Estate. Brotherhood.) Considering they were the shows opening band and it was my first time seeing them. They left a lasting impression on me. Definitely a band I'd like to see and hear more from. The Luna Laval

The time in between bands can often be long and socially awkward for me. But just as the stage remained empty. There was music and a sense of community happening on the floor thanks to the warm sounds of John Bentonamo's ukalele playing. Talk about a spirited individual. At the moment I didn't want to upset the intimacy of the small gathering by stepping in. Instead, I decided to loom close enough to take in all the mirth and celebration while not disturbing any tribal rituals that might be occurring.

The Harrison Four quickly assembled and though this DC area band was a late addition to the show. They made their presence notable immediately. Even as the band tuned up I could swear I heard little Minor Threat and Fugazi riffs being tested. Their set had a warm upbeat nature that was musically impressive, while remaining fun and light hearted. The addition of a horn player for the show didn't hurt things one bit. I felt a strong Lookout Records meets DC vibe. The band even busted out a Cleveland Bound Death Sentence. Impressive, to say the very least. I looked the band up before writing this and found out their also vegans. Kinda cool if you want to break bread with them after a show.
The Harrison Four

Raleigh's Empire were up next and I had the feeling I was up for something dark and heavy when I got a look at the material they were selling at the merch table. The band did not disappoint one bit. Turning the floor into their extended stage and bringing it to the small crowd of on watchers. I kept a safe distance from lead singer Ben Daughtry. Steering clear of his spitting fits. I like my bread just as crusty as the next guy. Just don't want to get caught in a shower without an umbrella. The band sounded great and brought an entirely different energy to the show. I picked up their CD "Shedding Skin" and should have some kind of review posted in the near future. In the meantime, check out the bands page and see for yourself. Empire

After three really good and diverse acts had played, I was feeling a lot better. Three bands down and two to go. Polyphony were next and just happened to be one of the two bands I was there to see. If you follow the blog you may recall they were one of the first bands interviewed for UBRS and if I remember correctly, the first guest interview from Shannon Perez of I Hope You Die. I was really shocked that the bands singer Marshall Davidson even recognized me after only meeting me once. It's been two years and though my interest in the band hasn't wained, I think I've missed a ton of shows. The band launched into their set and I could instantly see and hear the musical growth these young but very talented people have gone through. When I originally caught them at the Court Tavern they sounded raw but very good. They also seemed very stationary. Perhaps confined by the small space the  room, just to the side of the entrance, permitted. On this particular night, the band had all the room they needed to release their unbridled energy along with any other odors Marshall "Marsh-mellow" Davidson was omitting at the time. Polyphony would best be described as a screamo outfit. (Judging from the fact their lead singer seemed to be vomiting into a bag in between songs.) However, they are quite musical. They've changed drummers since the last time I saw them and as far as these ears could tell, it's brought they're blitzkrieg assault to a new level. Shortly into their set it seems the nights arctic temperatures were more than their brave frontman could handle and with some help from the aforementioned John Bentonoma's help, the shirt and eventually the pants came off. Upon witnessing this one can only hope Marsh-mellow can find some time in his busy schedule to hit the weights and get some much needed sun. Polyphony

By the time Ola Madrid hit the stage, it was well past 1:00am and to be honest, I was quickly fading. About a month back the bands guitarist Dylan Young sent me the bands September 2012 debut release
"Distance to Decay".
The five song EP has been getting a lot of play here at the UBRS headquarters.
The chance to catch them live seemed like a no brainer.
I came to this show with high expectations for this band. To say they raised the bar would be the understatement of the early year. The bands energy level and musical proficiency immediately ignited the crowd and gave me the little extra boost I needed to get through the late hour and the drive home that followed. The band has a new record due out this spring. It would be wise to keep your eyes and ears on the look out. Ola Madrid
For someone who was about to leave before the show had even started, this turned out to be the best and most eclectic show in recent memory. See you all next time.
James Damion

Sean Favre on his Departure from Meet Pause

Sean Favre's announcement he was leaving Meet Pause came as a shock to many. I was honestly saddened to hear of the announcement, mainly due the fact that Meet Pause was a band I felt I was just beginning thoroughly appreciate and enjoy. Having seen them perform at Clifton's Dingbatz just a few weeks prior I couldn't help but feel a chemistry between the band. It didn't hurt one bit that Sean seemed so sharp and focused at the time. So on the eve of his last show with the band I reached out to Sean to get some answers and insight on the reasons for his departure, his fond memories of his time with the band and what the future holds for this very talented and very likable mainstay on the New Jersey music scene. James Damion

James: You've been the trusted bass player for Meet Pause for some time now. Why the sudden departure?

Sean: I felt that, for myself, it was time for me to move on. I haven't given the band 100% for a while now. It just didn't seem fair to me or to the other guys in Meet Pause for me to continue. It has been a hard decision to fully make but I feel like it was the right one and it's what I felt was, and still is, in my best interest. I hope everyone can respect my choice.
I always tried to look at this band as a small business, which it is, but the other half is that this band is a hobby. After awhile, this hobby wasn't fun anymore . Don't get me wrong, I'm still looking forward to playing music privately and publicly. Just for now, it will not no longer be with Meet Pause.
I feel that anyone in Tiny Giant can agree that this lifestyle of playing shows and making original music doesn't bring in the paychecks. We play because we love it, and it drives us. Without that drive the train loses its steam.

James: How did the rest of the band react to your decision?

Sean: The guys in the band were very gentlemanly about it all. No name-calling or any of that petty garbage. They still remain supportive of my decision and show the utmost respect for me.
I wrote up a message that I felt was as professional as I could be for such a delicate subject and action on my part. I posted it to a private group page we use on Facebook so they would all be able to read it one spot. One of my main points to them was that just because I'm leaving this band, doesn't mean I'm leaving our friendships.

James: What made you decide to leave the band through a Facebook message? Wouldn't it have been better to just jump from the van en route to a show?

Sean: I had spoken to Keith beforehand the previous day on the phone about it. I had a lengthy conversation the week prior after one of my shows with Keith and Graeme about a lot of the things going on too. Maybe some may think it's cowardly to send a Facebook message, but I felt it was the best choice so I could take my time with writing what I wanted to exactly say in one go, rather than calling each of them up individually and saying a paraphrased version to all three bandmates at three separate times. Plus, I wanted to get it out there rather than sit on my decision because I wasn't going to see those guys for another 4 to 5 days. I included in the message that if they wanted to call me to talk about it, then I would gladly fill them in on the details.
The "Van tuck-and-roll" was definitely an option, but it may have turned into an extended hospital stay...for Scott. (Evil laugh echoes in the night)

James: Did you get your FB message signed by a Notary Public to make it strictly legit?

Sean: The Notary Public wouldn't get back to me in time. I'm trying to have a break-up/suicide note published as an ebook exclusively on Kindle through Amazon. Just waiting on the details due to copyright and publishing restrictions.

James: Where are you heading from here?

Sean: There willy always be different directions I'll be go in. This isn't the last time anyone is going to be hearing from me, "The ole' mighty Sean Favre!". Not many people know that I'm actually a guitar player, as well as a drummer and bass player. I've wanted to play guitar more in a band for some time now and this is my opportunity to write and perform the music that I've wanted to express from my own creativity.

I know how to play guitar, bass, drums, I want to see what I can do with recording all parts with my own vocals over top. Maybe I'll take the Everymen approach having a bunch of my friends be revolving members to play shows with. Maybe I'll find some other musicians/friends to play full-time with. Who knows just yet? I have plenty of time to put things in order, keep contributing to Tiny Giant, and have a good time otherwise.

I'm not fully set on what genre I'm looking at, but I'm sure it will incorporate something with my musical taste in rockabilly, folk, punk, and maybe some of the instrumental side of playing I love. Maybe I'll finally get that one-man Tom Waits tribute band off the ground like I've always dreamed of. (wink,wink)

James: What's the fondest memory of your time in Meet Pause?

Sean: My fondest memory with Meet Pause was when we played the basement of Lucky Cheng's in the city, which is a drag queen bar, and having an almost 7 foot tall drag queen that looked like Lady Gaga walk in.

James: So what transpired when the Drag Queen walked in? Was it love at first sight?

Sean: I was very joyful. It seriously made the night! It's a moment that made time stop. Any lovebird knows that feeling like that moment will last forever, or when he takes the wig off and goes back to being a beautiful man.

James: If you had a choice in the matter who would you like your replacement to be?

Sean: For a replacement, I would hope the ghost of John Candy would fill my spot in Meet Pause. If that's not possible, then I would gladly like to see Adam Copeland (Black Water/Warface) in there so he could say he's in three bands now.
(I couldn't bare to tell him John Candy is dead. Mums the word on that one…)

James: In ten words or less, Keith Hotpockets is a ......

Sean: "…pleasure to have in class, a true delight."

James: Being that we're finalizing this after your last show. What do you think you came away with? Was it an emotional night?

Sean: I think I came away with a great foundation for future projects and some enduring friendships, not only with Keith, Graeme and Scott, but with all the people that I know in the audience. It wasn't too emotional, even though I must admit right before doing "Hybrid Moments" my heart was racing a bit and I even added an extra two lines in the chorus because I couldn't remember the first line of the next verse.

I think it was a good send-off for me with the guys in Meet Pause. Like anything that ends, there is always the oppurtunity for something else that comes along the way. I'm at a point where I can do anything I want musically, or maybe I'll take a break for a few months to finish up my schooling and analyze Nirvana songs to figure out how to write the perfect pop song. Anything could happen!

I didn't pop a kidney because then I would've only been down to one. I didn't like the idea of being a freak living with one kidney. I know people wouldn't be able to see it, but it's the emotional hurt I couldn't stand, knowing one of my organs is missing from my body.