Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010
We had a chance to catch up with Upstairs Downstairs, folk rock out of San Francisco!
What’s the origin of the band name? Have you changed the band’s name before?
Literally: Kyle lived in the downstairs flat at this house and I lived in the flat upstairs. It just so happens I also have a hankering for (ok, obsession with) British dramas.
How long have you been all been playing? Self-taught?
Tory: I played piano growing up but quit when I was 11 I think. My dad’s side of the family has a good amount of musicians (concert pianists, opera singers, all kinds of stringed instruments) and he had a rock band…so at 17 I finally asked him to teach me to play the guitar so I could play along to the Misfits. He was hoping more for old folk standards…so I think I learned a bit of both. James: James: 6-7 years, but if you count the amount of time I’ve spent practicing and studying it would be more analogous to 10-12. Self taught and self absorbed.
Kyle: I picked up a guitar when i was 12 and have played ever since…
Tory (speaking for Doug): Doug said he asked his mom if he could play drums when he was 5 or 6. She said no so he played the saxaphone. Clearly she later relented.
Who are your major influences? Any major comparisons to certain bands that your music may receive?
Tory: Well, there are bands I love that made me want to play music, but I can’t say that the music we play directly correlates with theirs. Formative years-wise, what I like to call “Older-brother-sister” music included a pretty wide range — from Black Flag to Erasure, Joy Division, Too $hort –- I was lucky enough to be exposed to so many amazing bands that have stuck with me. I went to college in Seattle so I saw a lot of music -– whether in basements or at the Crocodile –- it was all inspiring. Seriously, every band I saw.
As for who we’ve been compared to, lately we’ve gotten some Yo La Tengo (holy crap!! Rad!) We’ve gotten Rilo Kiley a few times, Lucinda Williams, St. Vincent even. Good company, right?
How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?
Tory: I met Kyle about 6 years ago through mutual friends, and James from Kyle – they have another band together called They Drive by Night. Doug had lived with some friends of mine for a while but I didn’t really officially meet him until we begged him on as our drummer. Really if I had to trace it all back, the skateboarding world is responsible for us all knowing each other. Isaac, who is handling keys these days, is brand new to us and we love him!
Kyle: I lived next door to James in the Sunset and begged him to play guitar with me, then i moved to the Inner Richmond and lived downstairs from Tory, then we all became friends…
When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?
We started playing as Upstairs Downstairs in Summer, 2008. I had been playing in another band that was really casual and somehow I wound up playing this house show on my own at the last minute, and it went well. Kyle and James had their own band (They Drive By Night) and Kyle suggested we all should jam together sometime. Along the way there have been some different people playing with us who all contributed a lot: Brad Robertson (who played keys with us last year and taught me a lot about arrangement), Dana Goldberg, Donald Meints and Tamara Waite. My friend Lindsay Irving came on to sing on the album and play some shows too. Her voice is absolutely amazing.
What can you tell me about your instruments? What made you choose the instruments you have now?
Tory: I typically play my Martin OM – it’s Martin’s SmartWood line so it’s made of cherry and reclaimed spruce – so awesome! I chose it based on the recommendations of Derek at Gryphon in Palo Alto – my dad and I are 5 guitars deep with him and he hasn’t let us down once. I also have an 80’s Japanese Strat and a ‘79 Guild dreadnought.
James: I own quite a few guitars plus a few other stringed instruments, but have a Gretsch Hollowbody that I can’t part with. It sounds exactly how a guitar should sound.
Kyle: Jazzmaster through an AC30 = BAD ASS
Tory: Doug rocks a 40-year-old set of Gretsch drums that are lurvley.
Where have you performed? What are your favorite venues in the Bay Area? Anyone I should talk or speak to so that their venue/open mic/project can receive more exposure? Do you have any upcoming shows?
Tory: We’ve played at the Make Out Room, The Knockout, Hotel Utah, the Stork Club in Oakland, the Red Rock in the South Bay, Dolores Park, hmm…house shows…We’re playing El Rio for the first time in a couple weeks and then Amnesia at the end of August. Super excited about both of those!
We’re hoping to get down to Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, LA and then up to the NW this Fall as well.
My favorite venues definitely include the Knockout and Make Out Room. They’re just so comfortable to hang out in and everyone is super nice. I’m also a pretty big fan of Amnesia, the Great American, du Nord and the Hemlock to name a few. Simon Joyner played in my living room the other night which was awesome. And we had the Out of Sight Holiday Show there last Christmas…so I’m now getting pretty stoked on my house as a venue as well…no transportation needed.
As far as talking up some nights – Penny Arcade at the Make Out Room is amazing. It’s put on by Raul Sanchez. DJ Neil Martinson does Smile — also an awesome event.
What albums are you currently listening to and would like to recommend?
Tory: My buddies Nathan and Dusty just released their collaborative album as Coloring. (it’s called “Start Coloring”.) love it. Also, check out another SF band called Social Studies and their new album “Wind up Wooden Heart.” At my office, we’re playing Lovers’ “I am the West” at least once a day! “Everyday Balloons” by A Weather is up there, the new LCD soundsystem, the Moondoggies, Wooden Birds.
James: Love Language, Ariel Pink, some 80s older brother music.
Kyle: the entire Outlaw Con Bandana catalog, Simon Joyner’s new record “Out into the snow” is on constant repeat as well.
Tory: I think Doug is rocking a lot of obscure Jazz at all times. If you need a record recommendation definitely go see him at Grooves. That place is amazing. He works there on Saturdays.
Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers?
Tory: I think we’ve played Til Tuesday and January 12th the most. We don’t have any covers at the moment…I’m kinda looking for one we’d all agree on…I think I want to do “Disorder” by Joy Division or maybe a Mountain Goats or Neutral Milk Hotel song.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
Tory: I do most of the initial writing, but then everyone writes their own parts and we work it out together in the end. We also do one of Kyle’s songs “The Revision” and we’re working on one by James as well.
As for main themes, I don’t know. I think a lot of them center around expectations – either internal or external – about situations or relationships or places, and how they do or don’t line up. Some of the songs though are just storytelling about real events – typically ones that happen to other people I know. “Grave” is about one of my close friends who was the sole survivor of a nasty car accident in Mexico. “Bluebird of Loneliness” was actually started by my friend Tim who has a skate-thrash band called Shred Crust now in North Carolina. I just took his title and ran with it. I don’t think he’ll let me work with some of his other opuses like “Blood Sock Puppet” or “Skate Park Six Pack” though.
Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
Tory: Most of the time I’ll write songs while I am either sitting in my bed with a guitar watching West Wing reruns, walking my dogs, or when I’m traveling -– either on the plane, driving or in a hotel room. Honestly, those are the only three times. I should probably try to expand on that. From there I usually work out a rough recording with James and/or Kyle, then type up the words and chords for everyone and then we work it out at practice.
James: Tory will typically bring a new song and I usually will ask her to play it over and over while I try some different guitar melodies. We might make some early arrangement changes, then we will get a rough recording.
Tory: oh yeah, I guess I kinda blocked out the part where James makes me play them over and over…
What are some challenges you may face playing at a new venue and not knowing what the sound will be like?
Tory: well we’ve definitely had some challenges where no one could hear each other or where you can’t hear yourself, but it is what it is and it always works out one way or another.
James: It’s funny because everyone hears something different. We’ve played a show where Kyle and I couldn’t hear my guitar but his sounded really loud. Afterwards a friend said all they could hear was me and that Kyle needed to turn up.
Kyle: you never really get great stage levels any where, i guess if you know the songs you are playing you should be ok
What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
Well, you know that scene from Scarface at the end when he’s face down in a mountain of coke? Well… It’s nothing like that. : ) We try to do at least one day a week, two sometimes. It’s hard to get all 5 of us in one place at the same time. But when we’re there it’s good. Our friends from Anaura share an awesome practice “loft” with us…well, wait I don’t know what it is — a two-story old brick building that now has a couple bands and Kyle and James’ recording space.
James: Practices are generally laid back, with witty one-liners peppered about. We try to have a set time twice a week but that rarely happens as planned.
Kyle: we have fun and enjoy adult beverages.
Tory: yeah, Kyle has plastic water bottles that have pictures of naked boobies on them.
How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
Tory: I hope that it’s gotten less “singer/songwriter + band” and more of a band sound…if that makes any sense at all.
James: It’s still too early to say.
What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
Tory: I think arranging songs with five instruments around an acoustic guitar has been difficult here and there…James, Doug, Brad and I did a lot of arrangement work last year…
James: As Tory said earlier, trying to match schedules between everybody can be a little difficult.
What’s the ultimate direction for the band?
Tory: I think just to keep writing new songs and make sure we enjoy playing them one way or another. In the next few months we’re planning to get to Southern California and also up to the Pacific Northwest. Ultimately we’d like to get all around the country.
What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
Tory: Call me. I’ll tell them some things, then I’ll tell them to buy my buddy Brian (from Tartufi) dinner and he can do the rest! But, yeah, let’s see: find one or two other people. Get together consistently for a while no matter what. Get at least 6 or 7 solid songs together and book a show. It’s good to have a goal. There are some awesome nights in SF that are local music and have slots for new bands. Raul Sanchez is my hero in that regard. You don’t need to have some epic long set or a big name.
James: Make sure you find people you can jell with. Having incompatible personalities can kill your project really quick. Practice a ton. Know your songs!
Tory: ewe: jell.
kyle: fucking do it!
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Tory: Wow, so many. Maybelle and June Carter, James Mercer, Neko Case – she has four dogs did you know that? I could go on and on. Simon Joyner played in our living room last week and blew everyone’s minds…but was just the sweetest guy. Also, we recently crossed paths with Andy LeMaster who mixed our album. I’m a huge fan of his projects and have come to really admire his ability to be both such a meticulous and focused person and so pleasant and friendly. I’m jealous.
Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Tory: Wow, again, so many. My friends Raul Sanchez, Nathan Moomaw, Rachel Lipsitz and Anthony Gordon have been a big deal in getting us going one way or another –- supporting, booking shows, taking photos, telling us to keep going…Thank you Nathan — he put our album on his Gazebo Music label to do digital distribution. Definitely major thanks to all the folks we’ve played with that I mentioned earlier. Neil Martinson who hosts Smile, a night at the Knockout, has been huge in booking us shows and being a positive force. Karma and Mike from AM Magic are awesome and of course get major thanks for sharing Doug with us! Kevin McCracken and Daniel Phifer from Aim Low Kid have always been really encouraging as well. My buddy Kelllie McCool helped me silksceen our CD covers which was no small endeavor. Brett Critchlow and Matt Irving at Juice Design bought one of our songs to use in an Adidas Skateboarding video they made…Man, all of my friends are amazing about coming to our shows and/or helping out in some way. I’m so lucky – seriously, two of my best friends Mary Catherine and Sarah, and my fake aunt and uncle (Greg and Tina) have been to nearly EVERY show we’ve played, even if it’s just me playing a couple songs at the Christmas party.
James: Mark Kapple, Donald Meints, Tamara Waite, Catherine Spurlock, and Tory’s friends.
Tory: Yeah, my friends kill it…just FYI they’re also James’ friends…
Kyle: my mom and dad are cool
What does music mean to you?
Tory: Mainly it means I’m not painting or drawing in my room alone as my creative outlet. It’s good to collaborate with others and use a different part of your brain.
James: It’s a way to get our voices heard.
kyle: it’s fun!
Any last words?
kyle: i like tacos.
tory: kyle hates capitalization. well, in the grammatical sense, not economic.
All photos by Rachel Lipsitz, you may check out her work here http://www.flickr.com/photos/littlepants/ and http://www.littlepants.com/
Check out their music here!
http://www.myspace.com/upstairsdownstairsband
Thursday, July 29th, 2010
Artist: Tre Burt Myspace: www.myspace.com/treburt
Please list the name and respective instrument of each band member.
-Tre Burt: Vocals, Guitar, Banjo, Uke, Piano -Mallory Gee: BGVs, Piano, Shakers -George Rios: Percussions
*How would you describe your music? Do you ever receive any comparisons to certain bands? Who are your major influences?
I describe my music as storyteller-folk with an emphasis in scenic indie. But yeah I’ve gotten a few comparisons to Brett Dennen,Damien Rice, Jack Johnson, and Sufjan Stevens…which happen to be most of my major influences ha. But I also really dig Dylan, Springsteen, Bon Iver, Broken Social Scene, The Most Serene Republic, and Andrew Bird. But I really respect Broken Social Scene’s ability to keep everything fresh and creative. You won’t find a single song of theirs that sound like the other, which is what I strive for the most, among other things. Besides their last album…that one headed south in my opinion.
*How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?
I’ve known Mallory since high school. I used to play her my new songs to get her opinion till one day I found out she has a freakin’ amazing voice, so naturally I asked her to join my little project. It’s actually pretty funny how George came into the picture. I was supposed to play this gig in Davis and the manager already had two solo acts going and wanted to close with a band (myself). At the time I didn’t have a band, but Mark Geary (a friend of Damien Rice) came out from Ireland and was on the bill so I was determined to find a drummer for the show. After weeks of trying to find a drummer, I heard George play with this band at a show I was doing one night, and no doubt it was amazing enough to catch my ear. So I talked him into doing the show with me and the rest is history.
*When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?
I started out writing music by myself about 3 and a half years ago under the name “Mister Winter”. Shortly after I dropped that name to start another project with a friend called “The Noble Shy”. It didn’t take too long to figure out that the band wasn’t going to float, so finally in mid 2009 I went solo again to “Tre Burt and a Big Gust of Wind” where soon Mallory and George became the “Big Gust of Wind” part. We are all inspired by creativity and the idea of creation. Having a central focus of inspiration makes it easy to mesh our abilities.
*Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?
No I don’t have a record label or belong to any music organizations, it’s too complicated of a time in my life right now to belong to a label. But hopefully the near future holds some prizes.
*What can you tell me about your instruments? (i.e., Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever’s available?
What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it a style/model/brand/color preference?
Whatever’s cheapest, man. Any instrument that comes my way that doesn’t sound too bad I’ll use. I got lucky on my guitar though, it was a gift so it’s pretty nice. It’s a standard electric acoustic Yamaha. My banjo is another gift that my friend’s father got from a garage sale in the 70’s. It was pretty trashy but I saw that thing as a jewel and fixed it all up, gave it new strings, polished it and now its good as new. And recently I just bought a new ukulele that I found at a music store in Mexico. It cost $55, but I saw the same exact one in America for $132…awesome, right?
*Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
I’ve performed at just about every venue you can think of in Sacramento. My favorite venue however is Sophia’s Thai Kitchen in Davis and Luigi’s Fungarden In Sac. Least favorite…probably coffee shops. Those damn espresso machines throw off the mood. Also the Artisan in Orangevale, CA. That place is very awkward. As for upcoming shows, I’m going on KDVS and KSSU radio soon for a couple of radio shows. I’m also hosting an annual house show that I have called “The Fire-Side Show” on July 18th. Autumn Sky and I are mostly likely touring this summer with Katie Costello up to Seattle and back.
What albums are you currently listening to and would like to recommend?
I’m currently listening to Bon Iver’s side project, “Volcano Choir”. But I can never get tired of The Most Serene Republic’s “Phages”. Sickest EP ever. Lastly, Kevin Drew’s “The Spirit if…” and Sufjan Steven’s “A Sun Came!”. I recommend all those albums if you are looking for creativity.
*Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?
I’m always eager to play my new songs for crowds to get a vibe of the song. Right now I’ve been playing “Music From the House Next Door” a lot, which is a fairly new song. Very seldom do I play cover songs on the count of that I really don’t know that many.
*Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
I actually use an app on my iphone to write my songs…Just kidding. I’m too poor to own an iphone. Anyways, I write my own songs. It’s what I love most the music making process. I find myself writing about discovery/self-discovery a lot. That, or stories about other people. Fictional stories that probably reflect a little of my own feelings into them.
*Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
On any ordinary day, I’ll be having a conversation with someone or listening to someone speak, and eventually they’ll say a couple of consecutive words that catch my interest. Once this happens, I’ll write said phrase down on my arm and save it for a future song title. Next, I’ll be messing around on my guitar and eventually stumble upon a part I like. I’ll play through that a couple of times and a melody will pop in my head along with a set of random words or phrase. And sometimes I’ll build the song entirely off that phrase. I usually drive out somewhere to write songs, somewhere secluded. I’ve written 98% of my songs at night under the moon.
*What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
Our rehearsals are pretty chill. We’ll just play through a set-list for a show coming up or any other song that we’re not completely polished on. We usually practice twice a week due to personal complications so for the most part they are pretty spontaneous.
*How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
It has evolved tremendously. My abilities at the guitar have increased, which enables me to play more intricate and detailed songs. Also, my voice has seasoned throughout the years, letting me have a wider range and singing my own style.
*What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
Right now, the biggest challenge is that we are all splitting in different directions very soon. Mallory is moving back to Utah and I’m moving down to San Fran in a couple of weeks. Unfortunately the current band is breaking up and I’ll have to find new musicians. But when I do, the challenge will be overcome.
Do you get nervous before a performance?
Oddly enough, I only get nervous when I play in front of the people closest to me. Large crowds or strangers are no problem…but close friends…damn.
Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?
Dylan’s “Blood on the Tracks” and “New Morning” are amazing.
*What’s your ultimate direction for your band?
Touring around different and foreign countries, meeting new people, and sharing music. Ideally, that’s all that I could ask for.
*What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
Keep in mind of why you started your band, and what you want to do with it. A band is not a band without direction.
*How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
I’ll be posting my music on the web as soon as I stop procrastinating. But for now, the best place to listen to my music is this place:www.myspace.com/treburt
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Thom Yorke for doing everything by himself, Damien Rice for his humility, Kevin Drew for his creativity, and Bob Dylan for his tenaciousness.
*Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Yes of course. Brian Parkhurst for recording all of my earlier stuff for free, and letting me borrow his loop pedal all the time. Wesley Jensen and the Wildcats for recording my ep, “Paraplui”, for dirt cheap. My brother, Joseph, for getting me into music and getting me into the guitar. And to all my friends who give me criticisms and suggestions.
*Any last words?
In a quote from Almost Famous: “I dig music”.
Tuesday, July 27th, 2010
We had a chance to catch up with The Shants from Oakland, CA. Check out their music here!
http://www.myspace.com/theshantsmusic
What’s the origin of the band name?
The Shants has taken on new meaning as we’ve grown into the name. It started as a reference to something that is antiquated and has fallen out of use in everyday life, but is a very strong statement (the contraction for “shall not”) or something that is awkward and probably a poor choice for most people (those short pants that only bike messengers can pull off). Then we discovered that its also British slang for a drunk person, or a verb meaning to get drunk… which applies to more than a few of our songs. In the end, it has different meanings for each of us – there is no right definition. Sam insists that it means “shit pants”.
How long have you been all been playing? Self-taught?
We’ve all been playing since we were teenagers. Carver and I are self taught. Sam has been playing pedal steel for 10 years, but sometimes takes lessons from a gentleman in the South Bay to stay sharp.
Who are your major influences? Any major comparisons to certain bands that your music may receive?
Our influences differ: I listen to a lot of folk & blues like Nick Drake and RL Burnside. Carver listens to a lot of soul (like Sam Cooke), but he also works at Rasputin so he hears all the new indie stuff before it comes out. Adam is a big jazz buff – he loves the work of Peter Erskine and Brian Blade. Sam mostly leans towards country in all its colors, from Buck Owens to Son Volt.
We get compared to folks like Josh Rouse, Richard Buckner, Iron & Wine, Son Volt.
How long have you all known each other? How did you meet? When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?
Last summer, I started writing songs after a creative hiatus. Sam and I go to the same gym. We had both been “retired” from live music for 5 years or so. I brought a handful of songs to him, just to have something to jam together with… as I am generally not good at singing other peoples’ songs. That handful of songs quickly grew into a few albums’ worth. Carver came through mutual friends in bands like Treluna, Port O’Brien, Grand Lake. Adam found us the old fashioned way – Craigslist. Ahem.
Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?
Our demo EP, Russian River Songs, was released on a micro-label based in Portland called High Scores & Records. They generally do digital-only releases, but they do some vinyl and tape as well. Its an eclectic mix of sounds that’s really refreshing. We’re a member of BMI.
What can you tell me about your instruments? What made you choose the instruments you have now?
I tend to be attracted to instruments that have some kind of severe flaw. I’m not sure what that says about my subconscious. My main guitar is a 1953 Harmony Archtop – the kind of guitar one might have ordered out of a Sears catalog. The wood is paper thin, and it has been through some real shit. I found it in a junk shop in New Orleans. It had a makeshift bridge made out of piping and some glued together nickels. Its beat up for sure, but it sounds sweet when it wants to. Carver plays a vintage Peavey bass, which is only because his Fender was stolen from the alley by the Hemlock Tavern a few years back. I don’t know what kind of drums Adams plays, because he’s always changing them. Sam plays a double-neck Emmons Lashley LeGrande II pedal steel with a C6 neck. Hauling that thing around is like pushing a Buick up a hill with only 3 wheels.
Where have you performed? What are your favorite in the Bay Area? Anyone I should talk or speak to so that their venue/open mic/project can receive more exposure? Do you have any upcoming shows?
We tend to play regionally more than in Oakland: Sacramento, Chico, Sonoma County, Davis. We haven’t played in the Bay Area enough to really have a favorite, but if we had to go on the basis of the sound setup and staff, it’d be a tie between the New Parish and the Hemlock.
What albums are you currently listening to and would like to recommend?
Sam listens to Son Volt’s Trace a lot. Carver and I love the new Beach House record.
Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?
We have a core set list of 10 songs that we sometimes augment with new stuff, or random covers like Fleetwood Mac’s Dreams or We Drink on the Job by Earlimart. I’m kind of a nerd in that I prefer to have our setlists typed and printed before each show, when possible. Part of it is practical (I have horrible vision in the dark) and part of it is because I’m over-organized.
What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?
Our songs seem to center around a few themes: long drives, South Louisiana, longing, the various towns we visit. Most of them are letters to places or people that we care about.
Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
It’ll start with a song fragment, which usually come to me as I am walking around Oakland or San Francisco. I’ll take that fragment to the guys during practice (usually before I have all the lyrics or song title down). The guys throw their individual flavors in… Sam usually brings the slow, sentimental-yet sorta indifferent vibe. Adam brings a pretty laid back, lazy and sunny beat. Carver is all about melody and groove. The result is a pretty even mix of our respective colors and textures, based on where we grew up and how we look at music.
What are some challenges you may face playing at a new venue and not knowing what the sound will be like?
We’re lucky in that we’re a pretty versatile band, as far as gear goes. We’re generally pretty quiet, but can be loud if we need to. We play a lot of different venues, from clubs to house shows… so as long as they have some sort of PA, we’ll be fine. A floor monitor is always nice, but we’re not picky.
What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
We generally practice once a week. We generally run through our set twice, work on a new song or two, then knock off around 1030pm and get pizza & beer at Lanesplitters on Telegraph, which is down the street from our practice space…. That seems to be our routine.
How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
We started playing these songs in a very straightforward, simple way. As we have grown as a band over these 10 months or so, we began to really explore the space in the songs… either by playing less and allowing more breathing room, or by extending other passages to allow for more dynamics.
What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
Its been pretty easy for us, really. One aspect of our band is that all of us work full time and have busy lives, so we have come to an agreement that, yes playing music is a lot of fun, but we each have responsibilities and loved ones that we’d like to spend time with. I feel we have found a really great balance… or often merge the two when we can. That becomes a real problem for bands who don’t understand what is really important in life.
How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
You can find us on iTunes, Myspace, Facebook and YouTube. We also keep a Tumblr blog which we update pretty regularly from the road:theshants.tumblr.com
Pictures by Shannon Claire
http://shannonclaire.b-sideimages.com/ and Lauren Wiest
Friday, July 2nd, 2010
By Elsie Campisi
*Please list the name and respective instrument of each band member.
Autumn Sky, as herself, playing guitar, ukulele, autoharp and the occasional everything else.
*How would you describe your music? Do you ever receive any comparisons to certain bands? Who are your major influences?
It’s retro-inspired folk-pop, the kind that’s designed to put a smile on your face. I hear a lot of comparisons to bands like A Fine Frenzy, She & Him and Regina Spektor. I’d like to think that everything I listen to, see and enjoy influences me a little bit, but I’d like to give major shout outs to my musical heroes: June Carter Cash, Edith Piaf, Billie Holiday and The Supremes.
*How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?
I’ve been playing shows for four years, I met my guitar when I was fifteen.
*When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?
I started playing as myself, or at least professionally, about four years ago now. Just little gigs, like coffee shops and open mics. And then I just kind of caught the bug. It was so much fun for me, and so inspiring. Every show was like a new adventure.
*Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?
I’m currently signed to Cinemalight Music Group.
*What can you tell me about your instruments? (i.e., Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever’s available? What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it astyle/model/brand/color preference?
I think if I ever got a new guitar I’d stay within my Taylor and Martin love affair, but I have toyed with the idea of getting a Gibson. I think they’re lovely guitars. And someday I’d love a pale turquoise electric Stratocaster, but alas I think that’s just a wish at this point. My ukuleles have been pretty inexpensive up to this point (ie, pretty cheap,) but I still like the sound of what I’ve found with Makalas. I don’t have a lot to work with in the money department, so I find what works and if it doesn’t, I make it. And my Autoharp is just something that was given to me by a friend when I told him how much I loved June Carter (thanks, GP!)
*Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
I’ve performed in so many places, especially in Sacramento. I don’t think I have any least favorites, but I know that True Love Coffeehouse, Luigi’s Fungarden, Old Ironsides, Beatnik Studios and The Boardwalk will always hold a bit of my heart.
What albums are you currently listening to and would like to recommend?
I’m listening to a lot of Donovan right now, he’s kind of my musical crush at the moment. I like how we are both swayed to right happier tunes, it makes me feel less like a gigantic nerd. I’m also listening to Nighttiming, by Coconut Records. Jason Schwartzman really makes me smile and he’s got such an early for catchy, indie pop melodies. His songs make my heart sing.
*Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?
I play Rockets!, Bad Blood, Chocolate, Katie, You’re A Hero and Thanks, Mr Skerzick a lot. I feel like, at this point in my musical life, those are kind of the standards. They’re older, which means that more people have heard them, and it’s fun to get everyone involved at a show with a song they’ve grown to love. I do like to play covers; I bust out Ooh, Child by The Five Stairsteps and Leaving on a Jet Plane by John Denver every so often, and lately I’ve been working on covers of Catch The Wind by Donovan, and As Tears Go By by the Rolling Stones. And no set play list for me — I would be bored in three shows and would immediately want to quit. Changing up the set list is a must for me because I have a lot of new songs, all the time, and I like to give them breathing room even if they aren’t on an album yet.
*Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
I write everything, the music and the lyrics are just by-products of my over active imagination. I feel like when I first started I wrote love songs a lot. But I’ve really pushed myself over the last year or so to become a stronger songwriter and not just rely on romanticism. I’m more than just romantic, anyway! I’m fun, I’m a deep thinker, I can be strongwilled and I have a sarcastic sense of humor. I really want to give those facets of me a turn as well. And yes, I certainly hope that they change over time. I think my songs will follow the pattern of my growth into further maturity, hopefully becoming more mature, too. Not more boring, mind you; just more enriching and captivating and better constructed. Anyway, I hope so. Fingers crossed.
*Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
I usually work on a lot of songs all at once. I keep a little recorder by my bed and one in my purse in case I think of something while I’m dreaming or while I’m on the go, and I always have something to write with and write on. My songs take a few weeks to think of, but only minutes to get on paper. I generally am stuck on an idea or a riff for a long time, and then one day inspiration will hit me and I’ll have it down very, very quickly. I kind of look at it like “creative pregnancy,” where the idea has to take some time to grow into a song.
*What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
I rehearse whenever I have time to take out my guitar and play. I always practice before shows, and I warm up right before getting on stage so that my fingers are used to the picking patterns I play in some songs. But I’ve never put a marker on my calendar and gone “this is the day I practice.” It’s just whenever the spirit moves me.
*How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
I feel like it’s gotten much more audience involved, and that’s wonderful. When I began it was much more about me, and I got tired of that after awhile. Being able to talk to and laugh with the audience while you’re both enjoying music is a lot more enriching than just being stared at for an hour. And it’s definitely gotten more defined. When I started I feel like, musically, I was all over the map. One song was blues, one song was jazz, one song was pop. Lately I feel like everything I write has a lot more in common with the rest of my work, and that’s a nice change cause now I don’t have to worry about coming across as a bipolar folk-pop songwriter. And the songs I write now are more mindful of my voice, too. I’m a trained jazz singer, and I like songs that give me room to not just say words, but really sing.
*What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
The schedule is really grueling, and it always has been. Now that I’m older I have a lot more responsibilities and jobs, and balancing my shows with all of that has been a feat. Every so often I just break down, I get so tired and stressed out, but then my shows always pick me right back up. I think that’s how you know you’re doing what you’re supposed to be doing; I really look forward to playing, and it re-energizes me completely.
Do you get nervous before a performance?
You know, from a girl who used to have stage fright, I actually don’t. I’m much more anticipatory than nervous!
Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?
I worshipped Diana Ross when I was younger, listening to the oldies station. And I grew up listening to Cat Stevens, Carole King, John Denver, and Bob Marley. Even now I think my main influences are people who were big names in their day, but not so much anymore: June Carter Cash, Edith Piaf, Billie Holiday, Linda Rondstat, Marianne Faithful, Santo y Jonny, The Beach Boys, Peter, Paul and Mary…the list seriously could go on forever. Records are very nostalgic and romantic to me and the above mentioned are absolutely beautiful.
*What’s your ultimate direction for your band?
I want to keep making music that makes people smile and dance and love eachother. Music has been such a gift to myself, and it’s only fair that I should pass that on to other people. If that takes me bigger places, that’s wonderful; I can share this with so many people. But if not, at least I spent my life on something that made a positive change in the world, even if it was only for an hour’s set.
*What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
Be true to yourself, there is only one in the world and there never will be another. Don’t let other people tell you how to be or what to write about. Remember that what you make comes from a pure source — yourself! — and everything you do will be authentic.
*How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
My first album, All Which Isn’t Singing, is available for sale on Amazon.com and Itunes. 
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Connor Oberst, Ryan Adams, Regina Spektor, Kate Miller-Heidke, Kate Nash and Brett Dennen are doing some good things in the music world.
*Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
My friends and my family and my fans, of course. I love you guys, thank you.
*Any last words?
If it makes you smile, take it and run.
Find more music by Autumn Sky at the following links:
http://www.myspace.com/autumnskymyspace
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Autumn-Sky/34014118758
http://twitter.com/autumnskymusic
http://www.youtube.com/autumnskymusic
All pictures by Elsie Campisi of Tuff Teal Photography
Wednesday, June 30th, 2010
Artist: Not An Airplane
Website: www.notanairplane.com
What’s the name of your band? What’s the origin of that name? Have you changed the band’s name before?
We are “not an Airplane”. It actually is a Guided By Voices reference.
*Please list the name and respective instrument of each band member.
Nick Shattell – Vocals and Guitar
Daniel Edward Harris – Guitar, Banjo, Resonator, and Vocals
Jared Neilson – Upright Bass, Violin, and Vocals
Chris Haupt – Drums, Banjo, and Vocals
*What genre of music do you consider your work to be? Who are your major influences?
We like to say that we are Indie Country, but we were never very good with genres. Americana seems to cover a lot of bases.
As a songwriter I have had so many influences over the years, but ones that stand out would definitely be Jeff Tweedy (Wilco), David Bazan, Bob Dylan, and Hank Williams. Those guys have all impacted the way I approach songwriting in a major way.
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*How long have you all known each other? How did you meet?
We all know each other just from being part of the same local scene in Modesto, CA for so long. Daniel and I used to run an open mic together there for a while, Jared was in the first band lineup of not an Airplane, and Chris used to play drums in numerous bands I used to go watch play. Modesto has a great scene of supportive and talented musicians. We have all known each other for years, and around February of 2009 circumstances lead us to be playing music together.
*When did you form your band? What inspired you to make music together?
I started not an Airplane around 2007 or so and at first it was just me and my acoustic guitar. Eventually we formed a three piece that included Jared on bass. Then in early 2009 Jared and I began talking about approaching what we were doing a bit differently. Jared went out and bought an upright bass, and I began playing with Daniel Edward Harris for fun and talking to him about what we wanted to do with not an Airplane. Then when I found out Chris was back in Davis, CA I called him up. Everything really just fell together and it has been awesome.
*Do you have a record label? Are you a member of any music organizations?
No.
*What can you tell me about your instruments? (i.e., Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever’s available? What made you choose the instruments you have now? Was it cost or was it astyle/model/brand/color preference?
I actually found my acoustic guitar on the road in Astoria, OR. This local guy named Dallas had owned it for 40 years, and he gave it to the local shop to sell for him. I went in and played it and had to have it. Later that night at our show, Dallas came out to say goodbye to his guitar and hang out with us. It was an awesome way to acquire something I want to tell my stories with, especially cause it has so many stories itself.
But really we will play whatever is available. We just like to play music.
*Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues? Do you have any upcoming shows?
We have performed all around California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, and here and there. We have a lot of favorite venues and places to visit, but our true favorite spots are the places where there is a sense of community. Some communities are bigger then others, but whenever we find a place where musicians, promoters, venues, and fans are all working together to show their love for new music and art, we feel right at home. We have a lot of upcoming shows all over the West Coast. Check out our show calendar for more info: http://notanairplane.fanbridge.com/tourdates
What albums are you currently listening to and would like to recommend?
I have been listening to the Beatles “Rubber Soul” more then anything lately. I am in love with that album right now. I also spend a lot of time listening to David Bazan’s record from last year “Curse Your Branches”. Early Bob Dylan stuff like his “Live 64″ album, and I will always find myself listening to all of Wilco’s records, and any Hank Williams I can get my hands on. I feel a little behind on the new music this year, but that just makes me excited to go out and find what I have been missing.
*Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers? Do you have a set play list?
We primarily perform all the songs from our May 11th release “Things and People”. We also play a few older songs that we never recorded, and we are always working on new stuff.
*Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
I write all the songs in terms of lyrics, melody, and basic structure, then I bring them to the guys and we piece them together completely as a band. I just write what I want to say whether I know it or not. Sometimes the words just come out and sometimes I have to carefully think them out. They deal with everything surrounding my life and are always changing over time. Sometimes even the meaning of the songs themselves change for me over time.
*Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
Usually I bring a song to Daniel first, play it for him and we decide what instrument might be best for him to play live on that song. Then we will try it out with different things and start writing out some of his parts, and he might even start singing some harmonies. Then we will bring it to a full band practice to get Jared and Chris’ input on the song and any parts we are questioning. Jared will start throwing in harmonies places to see how they sound and Chris will throw in his input about it as well. Sometimes the song just comes together and we are all happy, and other times we will spend hours reworking and trying different things before we get something we like.
*What are your rehearsals generally like? Do you have a set time each week in which you practice or are rehearsals more spontaneous?
We get together at least once a week to play music. We spend a lot of the time working on new stuff these days, but we always play everything we know just to stay fresh and see if any new ideas get sparked during those songs. We don’t really have a set time every week, and we kindof take it on a week by week basis. We try our best to get together as much as possible. Practices themselves are pretty relaxed. We set up everything in Jared’s house and sing songs and just hang out.
*How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
We have definitely become more accustomed to working with each other so I think our music has evolved in a way that we are getting better at highlighting our strengths as a band. We are still discovering what our sound is every day and with every new song.
*What has been your biggest challenge as a band? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
I think the hardest part about being an independent band is doing everything on your own. You learn a lot along the way by trial and error and it can be frustrating, monotonous, and painstakingly boring at times, but you have to book shows, you have to promote them, you have to do all the networking you can, all while finding time to practice, write, record, etc. It helps when you meet other hardworking people and you learn from each other. It is a learning process, and there really is no set way of doing anything. There is no rule book so you feel lost sometimes.
Do you get nervous before a performance?
There is a comfort zone that I get into when playing music, especially with these guys. The only time I am nervous or feel uncomfortable is between songs. Then I get intimidated by all the people in front of us. When we are playing the songs though I feel right at home.
Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?
Many. I still have a small vinyl collection and love to sit down and listen to them when I have the time to just sit back and enjoy listening to some music. Old records are the best, the artwork, and the clarity of the sound. One of my first true loves when it comes to music.
*What’s your ultimate direction for your band?
Just to keep writing together and making the music we want to make. Music we love to play and hope that people will love to hear.
*What advice do you have for people who want to form their own bands?
Work hard at developing your art to where you want it to be. Be confident in what you are doing, but check your ego at the door. And most importantly, help each other out. It is all about maintaining a sense of community. Get involved.
*How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
We have our main website (http://notanairplane.com) which is sort of a hub of information with links and whatnot. You can hear ALL of the tracks from our last album on both our facebook page (http://facebook.com/notanairplane) and our myspace page (http://myspace.com/notanairplanemusic). The best way to keep in touch with us is to join our mailing list or just “like” us on Facebook.
Which famous musicians do you admire?
I will always have a deep-rooted love for Jeff Tweedy, Hank Williams, David Bazan, Bob Dylan, and the Beatles. These people have helped shape me into the songwriter I am today. But I really do admire anyone that has worked hard to reach any level of success with their music. It is a lot of work and I respect and look up to anyone who has the passion to do it.
*Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Every single one of our friends, family and loved ones have been there for us and myself since the beginning. Always pushing me to be better and encouraging me. And of course all of the listeners. I cannot express in words how it feels to have someone want to hear a song I have written or when someone connects with me on such a personal level.
All pics by Douglas Holcomb of Nine By 9 Photography http://nineby9.com
