Mewithoutyou and others bring Radiotakeover Tour at Big Daddy's

December 06, 2004

Are you fed up with the music on the radio? Well, apparently many musicians are too, as evidenced by the Radiotakeover Tour, which makes its way to Tallahassee Friday, Dec. 10 at Big Daddy's.

The show is scheduled to feature Mewithoutyou, Owen, the Snake the Cross the Crown, and Depistado.

Admission for the show is $10 and it is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. For more information, check out the company's Web site at www.radiotakeover.com.

Youngbloods Tour coming to Big Daddy's Saturday

December 06, 2004

Looking to feel the heat, but not the fire during these cold nights? The answer could be As Cities Burn, a post-hardcore band straight out of Baton Rouge, La.

The band, along with Far-Less, He is Legend, Showbread and the Chariot, will be performing at Big Daddy's Saturday, Dec. 11 as part of the Youngbloods Tour. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. and showtime is 9 p.m.

As Cities Burn started out with members from different local bands in the Baton Rouge area. Almost immediately, the band gained recognition and respect throughout the local music scene. Dedicated fans and listeners drove the band to record an album after only two months of playing together. The band released a self-titled, five-song EP that sold almost a thousand copies. During its virtually non-stop touring, As Cities Burn has played with up-and-coming bands such as Norma Jean, Underoath, Beloved, Twothirtyeight, As I Lay Dying, Mae, Haste the Day, and many more.

A sweet look with a tough sound
Metal duo Jucifer plays Big Daddy's this week

by Sara Kaufman
November 11, 2004

Like in any sales-driven business, within the music industry there is a consistent push to crank out the next big thing. Rather than focus on talent, record executives tend to follow trends, creating millionaires out of musicians who make music that sells.

This system creates a double-edged sword for music aficionados. Musicians who are creative, original and influential very rarely find their way to mainstream America, but at the same time an underground scene unfolds, opening up its arms to those musicians who don't fit into the conventional mold.

Jucifer stands out as a master of this underground scene, having spent the last 10 years making music that satisfies its members first and foremost.

Jucifer traces its roots to 1993. Back in the days when grunge rock was king, G. Amber Valentine and G. Edgar Livengood crossed paths at a Mexican restaurant in Athens, Ga. Alongside Livengood's roommate, Bleu Reuben, the trio hit the ground running, playing its first show within a month of that first practice. Three months later, Reuben left the band, leaving Valentine and Livengood on their own.

"We got together in '93 and started playing music," Valentine said. "We fell in love with each other shortly thereafter."

It's a regular rock 'n' roll love story.

"Being in a band and being a couple is good for us," she said. "I know instances, however, where it hasn't worked as well for other couples. Some people don't work well together in emotionally intense situations like this."

But being a happily married couple isn't the only thing that makes Jucifer stand out. The duo is as much a treat for the eyes and the ears. The angelic looking Valentine is soft spoken and articulate, but onstage explodes into a live act more exhilarating for fans than Christmas Day for a 6 year old. Livengood does not fall short on delivering the goods either, drumming with a fervor that frequently draws blood.

Although they may look unassuming, this duo plays hard and sounds harder.

"We were lucky as kids to have very open-minded parents," Valentine said. "We were both exposed to a lot of different art forms. When we started making music together we didn't set out to emulate a specific person or band. We just wanted to be something new, even if it's not possible, as the saying goes. We make music that comes from within ourselves."

Jucifer has been on tour for most of the year in support of the music it has made. They recorded an album last year and are currently waiting for it to be released. As for new stuff, Valentine said she and Livengood will wait to record again until the previously recorded music has been released.

No strangers to Tallahassee, the duo is looking forward to the Big Daddy's show.

"It's always a challenge playing venues with the huge amount of equipment we have," Valentine said. "But it's always a good time."

So where did the name Jucifer come from?

"In the early stages of being a band we were constantly changing our name," Valentine said. "We were both working in restaurants at the time doing mundane work. Ed was in the kitchen one day listening to NPR during the O.J. Simpson trial and the word came into his head. We didn't know then that it would be the name that would stick."

A combination of Simpson's nickname, "The Juice," and the biblical name of Satan, Jucifer's eclectic brand of metal will undoubtedly awaken the senses and provide a memorable show.

Coming down with a sudden case of Reflux
Progressive hardcore-metal band talks music, Big Daddy's show and more

by Matt Gilmour
October 28, 2004

It's been a busy two and a half years for Washington, D.C. metal band Reflux.

Since being formed by vocalist Ash Avildsen and guitarist Tosin Abasi in March 2002, the band members have toured almost constantly (mostly in a van that kept breaking down), performing with a wide variety of bands and slowly building a dedicated, rabid fan base, particularly here in Tallahassee.

They've also weathered through a number of line-up changes, including the unfortunate loss of original co-vocalist John Mehoves, who had to leave the band due to the possibility of permanent damage to his vocal cords.

But the past couple of months have seen things looking up for the band, which is made up of Avildsen, Abasi, drummer Vinny Vinh and bassist Evan Brewer. Reflux signed with Prosthetic Records, home of acts such as Lamb of God, Himsa and Crematorium. Its debut album, The Illusion of Democracy, was released Oct. 12 and the band's MySpace (www.MySpace.com) page has garnered, as of writing, over 3,000 views and 850 friends.

Avildsen recently gave an interview with The FSView & Florida Flambeau, which is printed here in its sarcastic entirety.

FSView & Florida Flambeau: Tell me a bit about the members of Reflux.

Ash Avildsen: We all live in a van and love burritos.

FFF: How did the band come together?

Avildsen: We decided that we needed a heavy progressive band with a black, an Asian and two white guys. It came together pretty smooth.

FFF: How would you describe the band's sound? What are your influences?

Avildsen: This question makes my brain hurt. We like bands that make trends and don't follow them -- Radiohead, Meshuggah, Dillinger (Escape Plan), Bad Plus, Candiria, Aphex Twin, Bjork, Unearth -- and good classic rock bands: (Led) Zeppelin, CCR (Creedence Clearwater Revival), etc.

FFF: What is your favorite part of being in a band?

Avildsen: Creating music we love and doing interviews for Tallahassee newspapers.

FFF: What has been your most memorable moment as a band?

Avildsen: Doing this interview.

FFF: How does the band write music -- what is the process like?

Avildsen: We get paid to write songs for the Rolling Stones and U2. The songs they turn down, we just make into Reflux songs.

FFF: You guys have played with a lot of big names in the past -- Sick of It All, Hatebreed, Mastodon, Poison the Well, Meshuggah, etc. -- what was it like playing with those bands? Did you learn anything from them, take anything away from the experience?

Avildsen: Yeah: it's awesome when you draw a ton of kids, because you can come home and pay your bills and tour in a bus ... and play out of bad-ass PAs.

FFF: You seem to have an unbelievably strong following in the Tallahassee area -- fans here treat you as if you were a popular local band. What do you think accounts for that?

Avildsen: I think what accounts for Tallahassee liking Reflux is that Tallahassee is that hot (expletive).

FFF: Your live show is a major factor of your growing popularity -- how do you generate such energy and intensity night after night, even when the turnout is low, like it was at the Swayze's show in Marietta, Ga. in November? There couldn't have been more than 10 people there, yet you had us all completely engrossed.

Avildsen: We shoot steroids into our temples.

FFF: The band's music is very political -- do you feel it's the responsibility of artists to address these issues?

Avildsen: When there are horrible things taking place on earth, not saying anything about them is just as political as saying something.

FFF: I understand you guys were shooting footage for a video during your show at the Beta Bar in November -- how did that turn out? What are the plans for its release, if there is to be a release at all?

Avildsen: It turned out pretty cool, but we are going to do another one soon. The tape managed to get (expletive) up.

FFF: How did you wind up signing to Prosthetic Records? What made them the best fit for the band?

Avildsen: Prosthetic gave us a few tacos and $15, so we gave them three records. Pretty sweet deal!

FFF: Tell me about the recording of your first album, The Illusion of Democracy. What is the promotional plan, what else do you have planned in the future?

Avildsen: The thing is not going to sell at all and we'll be in debt until we're 43.

FFF: How does the new album compare to your demo? How has your sound evolved over the last two and half years? Where do you see the band going musically?

Avildsen: Go get the CD and you answer this question.

FFF: How did you guys wind up promoting the band and album on MySpace.com?

Avildsen: Nineteen scenester extraordinaires signed a pact that we would have a huge orgy if we put a page on MySpace ... and the prophecy was fulfilled.

FFF: Many consider the music industry to be in a very negative state as of now, so what is it that keeps you guys playing music in such troubling times? What keeps you going?

Avildsen: There was music being created before the industry and there will be after the industry. People suck in all fields of business; they just make it a lot more obvious in music.

FFF: Any other comments, announcements, etc., that you'd like to make? I'm giving you the podium to give your final thoughts.Ê

Avildsen: Yeah: Come to our show on Halloween at Big Daddy's and work that back. We have always loved playing Tallahassee on our tours and will do everything we can to make it a stop on every tour we do in the states. We just found out there are some hardcore kids who refuse to go to Big Daddy's and that's a bummer because we've been wondering where some familiar faces from our old Beta Bar shows have been.

If you'd like to contact John Mehoves, you can reach him at mehoves@adelphia.net. Send him some mail! He'd love to hear from you guys.

"For quite a while in our career we couldn't play Orlando, or Tampa for that matter," Denison Marrs lead vocalist Eric Collins said. "Lakeland is right between both of them, and people didn't consider us a 'local' band so it took some time and effort to get into both of those scenes for us."

It may have taken Denison Marrs a little while to break, but now five years after its 1999 release, Holding Hands at 35,000 Feet, it is one of Florida's best-known home grown bands. The band and its sound has progressed alongside other well-known Florida acts like My Hotel Year, Believe in Toledo, Further Seems Forever and Sunday Driver.

"The sound of Denison Marrs is in constant evolution, with every album being different from the last, but still having that sound that makes us who we are," Collins said.

What is that sound? While many have compared Collins's lyrical delivery and singing to the '80s new-wave, synth-pop sound of bands like the Cure, the sonic qualities of the band's signature instrumentation, production and mixing are not as easy to pin down. There are unique nuances in Denison Marrs' music that deliver a rich, space-rock sound just below the surface of a seemingly simple "emo-rock" band. Collins offers an explanation for its hard-to-classify sound through an explanation of musical influences.

"(Our) influences are all over the place," he said. "From Led Zeppelin to Failure, from Queen to (Swedish pop band) Kent, from the Smashing Pumpkins to Tool. Our influences come from all over."

That kind of synthesis of influences can truly be heard in all of Denison Marrs' material. Its latest 2002 release, Then Is The New Now, "Focuses more on vocalist Eric Collins and his unique, infective voice," according to All Music.com. "The band then throws in straight-up power pop tunes with pressing guitar leads that fade back on the verses so that Collins' vocals can once again come up front."

To freshen up the Denison Marrs sound, the band seemed to inject a new approach to its songwriting for that album -- Collins wrote the songs, or most of them, with only himself and a guitar, and then the songs are fleshed out into a full band afterwards.

The band's new, self-titled album is, at the time of writing, tentatively due out Oct. 26. Tentative being the key word.

"You never know in this business," Collins said. "We're releasing it on Floodgate Records. It's a smaller label from California, but still has a good distribution deal through (Warner/Elektra/Atlantic Corporation)."

Floodgate Records is also home to such bands as Number One Gun and fellow Florida band Forever Changed (also on the bill). As for what the new album will sound like, it will be mixed by Ken Andrews (Failure, Tenacious D, A Perfect Circle) and demo tracks are to be posted on www.purevolume.com, as well as the band's Web site, www.denisonmars.com. Denison Marrs looks set to truly come into its own with this upcoming release.

"It is a bit heavier than the last couple (of albums)," Collins said. "We're going for a more raw feel, to match the effect we have live. ... We've always tried to capture our live show on our records, but I think this new one will be the closest to the truth."

Swan song for the 'Speedway'
Local band Capitol Speedway performs final show next week at Big Daddy's

by Paul de Revere
October 07, 2004

When most people look at the music they want to listen to, usually what is seen is very basic, clear-cut, Sam Goody-friendly genres: rock/pop, hip-hop/R&B, jazz, classical, country and so on.

These divides are straightforward enough, but one of the simplest divides in music is commonly overlooked: the divide between secular music (which is non-religious and non-spiritual, the kind one might hear on the radio) and non-secular music (which is religious and/or spiritual, the kind one might hear at church).

Capitol Speedway is, by nature, an outwardly religious, non-secular band whose members consider themselves non-denominational Christians. Capitol Speedway's music, however, seems completely secular at first.

It vaguely resembles straight-ahead, riffy rock 'n' roll that one could easily place between Incubus and Puddle of Mudd on X101.5's play list. However, when one listens a little closer to the lyrics written by vocalist Caleb McLeod and feels the unbridled passion given by the rest of the band -- lead guitarist Randy Vanwingerden, rhythm guitarist Richard Bokinski, bassist Evan Matthews and drummer Kevin Dyer -- the music begins to carefully straddle a line between secular and non-secular music. Don't assume it's the second coming of Creed just yet. Capitol Speedway is an entirely different musical breed.

"It's like kick-a-door-down-and-punch-someone-in-the-face rock 'n' roll," Matthews said. "I like the way it's really driving and really powerful."

Vanwingerden elaborated further.

"We're pretty influenced by bands like Boston, Foreigner, Journey, ZZ Top, Foo Fighters, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, (Lynyrd) Skynyrd," Vanwingerden said. "We definitely try to keep a classic rock feel and then just add our age onto it. But we definitely don't want to say we're a 'classic rock band,' because we have too much respect for those bands to put ourselves into that category."

While Capitol Speedway is reluctant to put itself in a category, one category holds true for the band: self-made men.

Capitol Speedway has the kind of popularity that is built from the ground up. From a small, dedicated fan base in April 2003 to successes like winning a "Battle of the Bands" competition sponsored by X101.5 and the Beta Bar (which garnered significant major label attention), the band has made quite a name for itself. The band was also hand picked by the Ernie Ball Company to perform on this year's Warped Tour: a nationwide, two-month, 50-city tour schedule done on the band's own accord. The band's hit single, "In Your Arms," reached the top and was retired into the singles hall of fame of the X101.5 play list by being requested constantly week after week on the "Hard Drive at 5" radio show. In addition, the band celebrated its one-year anniversary by headlining a sold-out, 900-plus attendance show at Floyd's Music Store April 2 -- quite possibly the highest attendance for a local show in Tallahassee history.

Sadly, though, all good things must come to an end. Capitol Speedway will be playing its final show on Oct. 15 at Big Daddy's. The band will also be officially releasing its first and only record, Tonight the World Is Ours, on Perennial Records (advance copies are available now on smartpunk.com).

"I'm really interested in expanding the kind of music I'm involved in," McLeod said about his possible futures. "From the hard-hitting rock that Speedway embodied to some poppier stuff and maybe even something with an alt-country influence. I'm really excited to work with new people who bring different things to the table. I've started collaborating with Eric Durrance (Wind-Up Records artist, lead singer of Big Dismal) and Ryan from My Hotel Year. They have different styles, but are so incredibly talented. I'm not exactly sure if I'm going to put together a permanent band yet or not, but I will be getting back into the studio with musicians to lay down some new songs and do some shows."

McLeod said he is excited by the possibilities available to him.

"There's a lot of different ways it could end up going," he continued. "It's really exciting to have a lot of people interested in working with me and I'm just honored to work with them. Capitol Speedway was a very special band that will always be a big part of me. I'm not looking to try and recreate it. Capitol Speedway will always be about the music we made together and the incredible reception it was met with. I'm just going to go forward and try to find out where my next place in the world of music is."

Get swept off your feet with Kid Casanova
New York band coming to Big Daddy's

by Robyn Ann Erickson
September 20, 2004

New York band Kid Casanova has been romancing its fans on its tour, which is arriving in Tallahassee to sweep locals off their feet.

Kid Casanova consists of four members -- Semra Ercin (drums), Mark Minng (bass), Kevin O'Sullivan (vocals/guitars) and Kana Philip (lead guitar). Touring behind its self-titled debut album (released this past July on BC Records), Kid Casanova has started this fall season playing in cities like Chapel Hill, N.C., Atlanta and Athens, Ga.

The band's album is getting good reviews and acquiring a decent fan base.

"Melancholy, but somehow upbeat, British Invasion via Brit-pop melodies and harmonies about privileged young people sleeping-in late, smoking and going to college in Europe from a wry local foursome," The Village Voice said about the band.

The New York Dolls, Bob Dylan, The Clash, Modern Lovers, The Ramones and the Buzzcocks are just a few of the many bands that have influenced Kid Casanova, making it the band it is today.

With so many other bands playing shows to get people involved in this year's presidential elections, Kid Casanova has added its own name to the list of politically active artists. In the beginning of September, the band played a show for the Republican National Convention protesters. On top of that, the band has been busy trying to accomplish other projects.

"We are currently recording and it's going well," one band member said. "We lucked out and got some free studio time -- and we're doing everything ourselves -- and Mr. Kana is engineering. Much to our surprise, it doesn't sound like a bad piece. It actually sounds great -- better than ever. Hopefully, we'll get it out soon."

On the band's Web site, www.kidcasanova.com, a surprisingly good job is done with keeping up to date with any breaking news about what is going on with the band, unlike other groups that get busy or often forget to post updates. An informative part of its Web site is the blog page, where any of the band members can leave messages or updates daily.

The ins and outs of concert booking and promoting
Big Daddy's owner shares some of his business wisdom

by Paul de Revere
September 13, 2004

Robert (or "Robert Doe" depending on whom you ask) is the owner, operator, booker and promoter of Big Daddy's.

Residing for over a decade 654 West Tennessee Street, the bar has held host to rising national acts ranging from Darkest Hour to From Autumn to Ashes, from the Virus to Midtown, and from Eighteen Visions to My Chemical Romance. A native of New York City, Doe expounded on his multiple careers throughout his 34-year life during a recent interview.

"I've done a lot of different and unrelated things in my life," Doe said. "This is my fourth or fifth 'career.' I know myself and pay attention to opportunities."

A former Wall Street suit, Doe's advice to others who want to do what he does is simple. "Be open to possibilities," Doe said. "When you think you have your life planned out, you are probably missing out on things you have no idea exist. If you understand yourself and can see the reality of a situation, you can probably do most anything well."

And as for what Doe does throughout his days and late nights:

"I wear a lot of different hats, so my day begins at 10 a.m. and is spent on the phone and on the computer booking bands for shows at the bar," Doe said. "If you do the math, like three to six bands per night, six or seven nights a week, that's a fulltime job in and of itself. Then there's the managing the bands I work with, which is about a dozen. This includes booking tours for them and so on. I just started a record label so there is a lot with that. Then you have the everyday stuff of owning the venue or the bar: Daily deliveries from beer distributors, inventory, employees, promoting shows, etc. I run sound for my shows, too, so I work seven nights a week at the bar and my night ends around 3 a.m."

When asked about the financial aspect of his career choice, Doe answers the question with a question of his own.

"What's a salary?" Doe said. "As the owner of the bar, I don't have to be a booking agent or a promoter, although I choose to do it, because I want control over the things I do with this job. Usually a booking agent will make about 15 percent of what the bands make, though."

Doe tends to explain how this career field works in a language pretty much anyone can understand.

"How can someone make money?" Doe said. "By booking great shows. How can someone lose money? By booking (poor) shows."

Doe expounds on some of the colloquium of the line of work he's in.

"A 'guarantee' is an amount you are guaranteeing you will pay a band, regardless of turnout," Doe said. "A 'door deal' is an arrangement where the band gets an agreed upon percentage of money taken in at the door. Often times there is a 'versus deal' too, which is a guarantee versus a percentage, whichever is greater."

As usual, he also boils situations down to their essence.

"At the end of the day, you need to make sure you offer enough money to big acts to get the show, but can still make money (from the bar) and not lose your ass -- losing your ass is a bad thing," Doe said.

For those who think it might be difficult in a field of talent managing and booking to deal with many different types of peoples (even many from around the world), Doe puts it simply:

"I can only control one person, and that's me," Doe said. "I try my best to be fair with everyone and handle situations at a level I can live with. It is hard to give the same attention to everything with a band that is difficult to deal with and they didn't bring in a packed house, but if you take pride in what you do, you do that night as well as you would a great band and a sold-out show."

As far as some of Doe's best experiences with people on the job:

"There are so many great bands that I've met," Doe said. "Actually, and this is kind of ironic, but it is usually the bigger bands with tons of fans that are the nicest to work with. It is the bands with no fans that are mad at everything that come in already bitter. You get those types every once in a while, and they think they are the next Rolling Stones and they have a bad attitude. There have been some of those at the beginning of the night, but I have found that if I can remain fair and work hard regardless, they usually come around by the end of the night."

Doe, as he always seems to, brings it back to reality.

"There was one band I was dealing with, and they had a bad attitude and a reputation for fighting," Doe said. "I absolutely stacked the audience with my off-duty bouncers and friends, just waiting for them to really step out of line. It didn't happen."

Finding ways to make the burning brighter
Indianapolis band is ready to make haste at Big Daddy's on Monday

by Robyn Erickson
September 06, 2004

About three years ago, Haste the Day started its band by getting motivation from all of the underground touring bands that came through its city, Indianapolis. The trio -- Brennan Chaulk (guitarist), Mike Murphy (bassist) and Devin Chaulk (drummer) -- established harmony. In the beginning, the band played local hometown shows. After receiving local support, it added two other band members, Jason Barnes (guitarist) and Jimmy Ryan (vocals), who provided the extra flare Haste the Day was looking for.

Haste the Day has shared the stage with bands like Sick of it All, Poison the Well and Papa Roach, showing it was capable of high-energy performances with intense passion. With all of this in mind, its performances have given the band much deserved credit.

"Hands down -- one of the greatest hard music shows I have ever seen," ChristRock magazine writer Adam Johnson said. "There was intensity dripping from the ceiling -- mixed with the stinky sweat of the crazed fans that were having the time of their life. If you are a hard music fan, you must see Haste the Day in concert. Lead vocalist Jimmy Ryan was as intense as they come. Their live performances of songs, 'Burning Bridges' and 'The Last Goodbye' brought the audience to a frenzy and stirred one of the craziest mosh pits that I have ever witnessed."

Haste the Day was signed to Seattle's Solid State Records. The band entered the studio with Barry Poynter (Living Sacrifice, Zao) for its debut album, Burning Bridges.

"Consisting of all new songs, besides the crowd favorite 'Substance,' Burning Bridges is an album full of passion and tension," purevolume.com said.

"We realized in the studio that there was a theme in the lyrics," Chaulk said. "A theme of breaking away from the past -- whether that's habits, character issues or people -- permeates the album. We just wanted to burn the bridges to avoid past mistakes."

Haste the Day will continue to tour non-stop during 2004 to promote Burning Bridges. Since the release of its new album, the band has developed a growing fan base, and those who are interested in this band will have no difficulty loving Haste the Day for what it is worth -- metal all around.

Looking forward to a brand new 'Day'
DayTwo plays with plenty of talent at Big Daddy's

by Jennifer Smith
September 02, 2004

Looking for something a little different than the indie rock that most of Tallahassee's clubs provide? DayTwo is coming to town with a little more experience under its belts than most of the city's visiting bands have earned.

Hailing from Salt Lake City, DayTwo was formed by a group of friends who had all been involved in music with other bands.

"When those bands broke up we formed this one," guitarist/vocalist Sheldon Priest said.

Though originally a four-piece band, DayTwo has added a second guitarist. The band is touring to promote its CD, Never Come Home, which was released in July 2003. The band is also just coming off of a stint on the Warped Tour, hitting some of the biggest stops.

"My favorite (concert) would have to be New York City's Warped Tour," Priest said. "First off, I've never been to New York besides Warped and second, the kids were amazing -- very supportive and just danced like crazy. We loved it."

Despite DayTwo's recent Florida shows, it has never been to Tallahassee. In fact, it seems that the band rarely stops where typical college audiences are found.

"Sometimes we'll play a college town and there will be a lot of people from the school there," Priest said. "But not very often do we play to college audiences."

DayTwo comes to town armed with a sound Priest described as, "Heavy Rock -- not hardcore or rock 'n' roll."

Mercury Switch is playing on this tour with DayTwo, despite guitarist Mark Switch's recently broken thumb. The band will be receiving help from another guitarist until Switch is fully healed. Oddly enough, Switch recently toured filling in for As I Lay Dying's injured guitarist.

Also out promoting a CD, 2003's If You Love Me, You'd Take Me To The City, Mercury Switch is far from local to Florida as well. This band from New Hampshire is working hard and touring with DayTwo through most of September.

Eklezia is another regular on this tour and Tallahassee has supplied local band Youtragedy to complete the bill for this unique show. Eklezia is working on material for a new album.

Take the road to "Acceptance"
Columbia recording artist returns to play Big Daddy's Monday night

by Sara Kaufman
August 30, 2004

There are bands that dabble along the path to greatness and then there are bands, like Acceptance, that own the path.

Originally from Seattle, this five-piece powerhouse is quickly making its mark in the music industry. On the verge of taking the world by storm, Columbia recording artist Acceptance will try to win over Tallahassee Monday night, headlining a show at Big Daddy's featuring Gatsby's American Dream, The Snake The Cross The Crown, and local favorite Finding Aquila.

The uncommonly modest members of Acceptance hail from rather normal beginnings. Singer Jason Vena and guitarist Kaylan Cloyd met at the Seattle leg of the Vans Warped Tour through a mutual friend. They stayed in touch and eventually formed what became Acceptance. After a few changes, the lineup was completed with the addition of drummer Nick Radovanovic, guitarist Christian McAlhaney and bassist Ryan Zwieflhofer.

Officially hitting the scene in 1999, the band released a seven-song EP on Seattle's Rocketstar Recordings. Loss for Words established Acceptance as an up-and-coming new artist and launched the members on tour with national acts such as The Juliana Theory and Further Seems Forever.

"They have a complete package that most bands on the scene do not have," Crush Music Media Manager Jimmy Stewart said. "They put on a remarkable live show; they play and sound great, but more than anything, it's the songs. They write intelligent, well-structured rock songs."

Acceptance quickly moved from the role of beloved local band to the coveted position of contender for the national spotlight. In May 2003, the band released a second EP entitled Black Lines to Battlefields. The record, released by The Militia Group, catapulted the band to the next level, opening doors for management opportunities and major label contract negotiations.

"We found a song on the Internet, contacted the band and eventually went to see them when they toured through California," Stewart said. "It was an instant love fest and that night we agreed to work together."

It is very easy to spot why success has found Acceptance. The band's blend of catchy pop/rock with punk and indie influences connects Acceptance with an eclectic group of fans and listeners. The haunting clarity of Vena's vocals, in combination with powerful chord progressions and sharp songwriting skills, are all ingredients in a recipe that yields success. Hand-picked by Matt Pinfield of Columbia Records, Acceptance has flourished and is currently in the process of recording its first full-length album, due out in early 2005.

"I think whenever a young band gets involved with such a big company, it can be a little intimidating," Stewart said. "Acceptance has always had a good outlook on the business side of things. The best thing for them has been the ability to make a record the right way instead of trying to cram too much into a 10-day recording session."

The upcoming show promises great things.

"The band has played once or twice in Tallahassee and the kids down that way really seem to be good kids for Acceptance," Stewart said. "This will be the first time Acceptance headlines, so we will see how it goes."

Take a stroll down 'Gadwell Lane'
Alternative-grunge band to play at Floyd's Friday

by Judson W. Bozeman
August 26, 2004

Gadwell Lane takes rock to the fast lane, and this week Floyd's Music Store is its highway.

Gadwell Lane formed in spring 2002 with the coming together of singer/guitarist/songwriter Ben Wilson and drummer Luke Stephens. After failure with the addition of a female vocalist, the duo went at it alone until bassist Nick Santa Croce joined in spring 2003, completing the trio's current lineup.

"We started playing for fun," Wilson said. "I didn't expect for us to play live."

The three hail from diverse origins. Wilson is from Chattanooga, Tenn., Stephens is from West Palm Beach, and Croce is from Baltimore. Wilson and Croce are both full-time undergraduates in FSU's School of Motion Picture, Television and Recording Arts, which means their time is spent either in class or with the band. Stephens, a former FSU student, focuses all his energy on the management and promotion of the band.

Energy and dedication to its craft are the major characteristics of Gadwell Lane. These band members not only sacrifice their time, but their bodies as well, having played performances after car accidents and injuries. Wilson played for three months in a neck-brace with screws in his head. Many fans believe this passion and the power with which the members play is what keeps audiences and fans coming back for more. Stephens keeps the drums pumping like a fast-beating heart, Wilson works the crowd like he works his guitar, while Croce beats the bass and makes everyone wonder what's up with his "interesting" face contortions.

Gadwell Lane has made an impression on the Tallahassee scene since the band was formed, with regular performances at Big Daddy's, Floyds and other local venues. However, its performances have not been limited by locality. This week's performance comes at the end of a summer tour covering much of the eastern United States from Pittsburgh to Pensacola.

Along with expanding its physical horizons, Gadwell Lane is also broadening them media-wise. The band's first single, "Never Mattered," debuted in April 2002 and was featured on the radio station X101.5's compilation CD Locals Only Four. In 2003, the band also released a four-song E.P., Clean and Sober. The band's newest effort, a 12-track album, is due for release in November of this year. The band's influences include: Foo Fighters, Dream Theater, AC/DC, Motley Crue, Oingo Boingo, Get Up Kids and Weezer.

"We don't sound like the other bands in town," Wilson said, "whether that's good or bad. If you like Weezer or Better than Ezra you will probably like Gadwell Lane."

For this week's show at Floyd's, other local favorites will be joining Gadwell Lane. There will be alternative, grunge, punk and funk played by bands that the members have the highest regards for.

"Victory Twin is from Baltimore and kicks ass," Stephens said. "Soular System is good, awesome funk."

Paulson equals good for all
Diverse band at Big Daddy's is best bet

by Andrea Panzeca
August 16, 2004

New Jersey is home to such treasures as Kevin Smith and the Statue of Liberty. It has a history of producing some of the greatest unforeseen wonders. It's no wonder, then, that it is also home to a band that may soon leave Tallahassee residents with a lot to remember.

The members of Paulson, a band renowned for its stark contrasts in influences and sound, include the brothers Burton -- guitarist Jesse and bassist Alex -- drummer Jeff Widner, vocalist Logan Laslotte and Mike Smeen on synthesizer. These artists will bring their diverse talent and energy to Big Daddy's Sunday for Tallahassee residents to witness first hand.

"We've been together about three years," Jesse Burton said. "We've been serious for about a year. We had all been friends and in different bands before coming together."

The success of the band is surely an inspiration to many with similar backgrounds, trying out their talents with other bands with varying combinations of members and educational pursuits, all coming together in the end for the common goal of making good music that most anyone can enjoy.

Since forming, Paulson has released two CDs and has appeared on countless compilations. The Ridiculous/Engine EP was released in June 2002 and made Paulson desirable to many labels. The members eventually signed a deal with Kentucky-based Initial Records. Variations On A Theme, Paulson's first LP, was released June 22 and includes four news songs in addition to those on the EP.

Paulson is often praised for its diversity of style, which has allowed the band to perform with a variety of other bands such as Milemarker (who the band credits as an influence), Folly (who currently is on tour with Paulson) and events like the Vans Warped Tour. "We've been compared to bands like Dredge, Failure and Cave-In," Jesse Burton said. He notes influential bands, including Waketrout, Trans Am and Squarepusher. Paulson's songs "A Great Pretending" and "Feast or Famine" can be heard in full at purevolume.com/paulson.

The band's music contains a balance of highs and lows and melodic vocals juxtaposed with strange sounds akin to underwater video game music. This variation of sound is reflected in its live performances as well.

"We like to put out a high energy show," Jesse Burton said. "It's not a relentless onslaught of rock. We balance it with calm moments to create an certain atmosphere; a well-rounded experience."

While Paulson has already earned a reputation for strong performances, the members are certainly aware of their potential to grow.

"We're not that well known," Jesse Burton said. "We've been touring full time since June. This is our third tour and each show's getting better and better. More people are hearing us and taking well to us."

Having a 'Revelation'
Hear what Revelation Theory has to say at Big Daddy's Tuesday

by Jennifer Smith
August 02, 2004

Vocalist Rich Iuzzi, guitarist Julien Jorgensen, and drummer Dave Agoglia met in college in New York to form Revelation Theory. However, the members' origins span from New Jersey to Vancouver, Canada. This is its first trip in Florida.

"Rich was a year ahead of us and after he graduated he went home and met our manager, Steve," Agoglia said. "Rich asked Julien and me to come down to Long Island where Steve's management company is located and give the band a real try. After we moved we met (bassist) Matty months later through a friend and Revelation Theory was born."

So what is the theory?

"The name itself means something different to everyone, but the overall meaning is the band making powerful and timeless music that will be enjoyed by our fans for years to come," Agoglia said.

Revelation Theory has been influenced by many groups, but the band can agree on a few. Staples of rock music including Tool, Metallica, Pearl Jam and Radiohead make the band's long list.

"Some newer bands we are listening right now are Sevendust, Staind and Blindside," Agoglia said.

These bands influence the high-energy rock that Revelation Theory performs for its growing legion of fans. In fact, it played a Long Island show where the crowd broke 1,000.

"We are doing our first tour that will last about a month," Agoglia said. "We will be traveling down the East Coast and two of our stops are in Jacksonville and Tallahassee. This will be our first time playing and visiting Tallahassee, so we are all really excited."

However, the band is not shy of a college crowd. With its roots in the college music scene up north, it feels relaxed about playing for a new set of faces. In fact, the band enjoys playing off the energy college students bring to shows.

"One thing that I think makes us unique is how amazing Rich and Matty's vocals sound together," Agoglia said. "They have two entirely different voices but when you put them together it brings a whole new element to our music."

With a new EP under its belt, Revelation Theory is hoping to take Florida by storm.

"We try to put on a great rock show and entertain the crowd," Agoglia said. "I hope to see everyone out when we are down there."

And, with any luck, Tallahassee's attendees will bring their energy to the show as well. For more information about Revelation Theory and upcoming shows, one may visit www.revelationtheory.com.

Texas Terri Bomb hits Big Daddy's
The L.A. punk band featuring frontwoman Texas Terri brings raucous antics to Tallahassee concert

by Amanda Jones
July 26, 2004

It's possible that Texas Terri Laird has been compared to Iggy Pop more times than any other female frontwoman on the planet. No, there aren't tons of facts to hold up that claim, but a visit to the Texas Terri Bomb Web site (www.texasterri.com) is a good indicator.

"The best thing is that I have been told time and time again that I rock harder than any male out there," singer Texas Terri Laird said. "Now that is a true compliment."

Texas Terri and her musical posse in its latest incarnation, Texas Terri Bomb, combines a sense of "punk rock history" from its upbringing and burgeoning in the underground scene with the flash and showmanship of the likes of Iggy Pop and Joan Jett. According to her bio, Laird's persona has tough girl attitude and sex kitten charisma.

Laird herself may have emerged through the underground scenes in Hollywood, but she remains a Texan, originally from Austin. Once in L.A., Laird collaborated with guitarist Don "Demon Boy" Cilurso, drummer James "Rage" Miller and bassist Terry "T-Rae" Love to form Texas Terri and The Stiff Ones. The band released the album Eat Shit in 1998 (later re-released in 2001 as Eat Shit + 1).

Now called Texas Terri Bomb, the band's latest album, Your Lips...My Ass! was recorded in spring 2003, and features the original members of The Stiff Ones plus an injection of an arsenal of other musicians to pump up its 14 tracks.

The full-length album features songs such as "Never Shut Up!" and "The Rocker," which showcase more tough-girl attitude than exercise hour in the yard of the local women's penitentiary. Aggressive lyrics from the song "Dream Wrecker" include, "I'm takin' over /Get outta my way/Your brain is rotten /And it's leakin' decay." The softer side of Laird comes out when she talks about fans of the music she makes with her band.

"I am straight from the heart baby," Laird said. "All I care about is the fans; making the fans happy is what I live for."

Laird also has great reverence the underground scene of punk music, but less respect for those in mainstream music who don't value punk rock's roots.

"Be true to yourself," Laird said. "My true territory is the underground; (those in) the mainstream do not understand what I'm about. They don't get the early NYC CBGB's days but will buy themselves a Ramones T-shirt to be cool at Hot Topic."

So why should anyone in Tallahassee check out Texas Terri Bomb's live show, besides the fact it was named the "Most Psychotic Band" in 1999 by Rock City News? Well, for the same reasons Laird was first drawn to punk rock music.

"(It's) wild, obnoxious, bratty, messy, trashy," Laird said. "Need I say more?"

Metal from around the world
Big Daddy's boasts five acts of rage, including bands from Germany and Australia

by Corey Janssen
July 19, 2004

Big Daddy's typically boasts a diverse line-up of musical acts, with bands ranging from local groups to nationally-known collections. Along those lines, July 19 presents itself as an opportunity for an evening of five bands, hailing from different parts of the globe, untied by one purpose: hardcore rock.

Formed in Jacksonville, Evergreen Terrace brings a hard-hitting act. This punk-cum-metal infused band formed in 1999 and in the five short years since its formation has already drawn a loyal fan- base. Within months of its formation, Evergreen Terrace released the EP Broken, which drew much attention from music labels.

After Broken, the band felt that it was ready to tour, and subsequently released a second EP. The band signed to Indianola Records, afterward releasing two albums on that label. Evergreen Terrace left Indianola to flirt with other labels. Its latest album, At Our Worst, was released earlier this year on Eulogy Records. Having the honor of being compared with bands such as Poison the Well, Indecision and the ever-rocking Metallica.

Performing alongside Evergreen Terrace will be Casey Jones. Featuring members of Evergreen Terrace, as well as members from xTimeToDiex, Casey Jones embodies straight-edge rock. Its 2004 album The Few, The Proud, The Crucial, released by Indianola, reflects a style seen previously in bands such as Stretch Armstrong, Good Riddance and Bane, bringing with it an aura of punk revival permeated with hardcore vibes.

Also on the bill, Caliban is a band on the cusp of death metal and hardcore punk. Hailing from Germany, Caliban has released four albums, all of which are available on Lifeforce Records. Formed in 1997, under the moniker Never Again, the band immediately began recording songs to send to labels.

As luck would have it, Lifeforce Records was the first to respond, and a deal was made. Since that time (and the name-change to the ultimately cooler-sounding Caliban), the band has toured extensively across Europe, Asia and North America.

From Orange County, Calif., comes Scars of Tomorrow, the quintet that has been playing its brand of metal across the West Coast for the past few years. Having debuted in 2002 with the album All Things Change, Scars of Tomorrow instantly made an impact on the California music scene.

Drawing immense critical praise for a new band on a non-major label, the band seemed poised to launch into massive tours, even going so far as to perform at various dates at the Vans Warped Tour. With influences ranging from Hatebreed to At The Gates, Scars of Tomorrow's latest album, Rope Tied to the Trigger, released on Victory Records, has been winning rave reviews.

I Killed the Prom Queen comes from Australia, where it is widely considered one of the scene's most intense hardcore acts. Touring vast areas such as the United States, Japan and New Zealand, I Killed the Prom Queen is well on its way to becoming an international success, considering that the band formed in 2001. Given the line-up, this Big Daddy's show seems almost a guarantee of an intense evening, leaving the audience and bands alike exhausted.

'Bombs' and 'Bullets' hit Big Daddy's

by Jackie Jo Brinson
July 05, 2004

Bombing Adam, a four man band from Mechanicsburg, Pa., will kick off a Big Daddy's show with its self-described "new school punk" music.

Although the group was formed just a while back (in November 2002), it proved its talent and earned itself a contract and a cross-country tour.

What kind of music does Bombing Adam play exactly? The guys describe their sound as "the fusion of aggressive music and melodic vocals with the message of hope and love." Tom Caruso, John Howard, Josh Shaughnessy and Nick Koebele feel they are "called by God" to play meaningful music, and their lyrics are based on their "deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ." Bombing Adam's debut, The War is Over, has been called "totally fresh" by listeners, and the band members use it as an opportunity to profess their faith in a saving God.

Bullet Tooth Tony will follow Bombing Adam, and its name alone leads to the belief that its message, if not only its music, will be quite a contrast. Stamped with the name of perhaps the most memorable character from Guy Ritchie's film "Snatch," the band from upstate New York writes thought provoking and sometimes blunt lyrics about young love, heartbreak, enlightening moments, and other tidbits of wisdom that can wash over a 22-year-old.

A product of Lucky 13 Records, Bullet Tooth Tony promises music that is equal parts punk, hardcore and emo. Chris "Kerbizzle" Kerbert will provide guitar and vocals, Greg "Fashioncore" Ferris will tap the drums, Kyle "Jack" Kaczmarczyk will contribute most of the vocals and Nick "Tweak" Haungs will play bass.

So, if inspirational tunes played by sincere musicians sounds appealing or if curiosity musters up the necessary motivation to give a band called Bullet Tooth Tony a shot (pun intended), a trip to Big Daddy's may be in order.

Bullet Tooth Tony plays with Bombing Adam Monday, July 12.

Pass the torch

by Brendan Murphy
July 05, 2004

Hello freshmen, and welcome to Florida State University.

It feels like yesterday I was in your position: young, stupid, nervous, full of freedom. But now I am old. I've done everything you're about to do. So I figured this would be a great time to share with you what this wonderful University has to offer.

Football:

The first home game is something one will never forget. I know many freshmen have already been to a game, but it's different being a student. The first rule for any home game is to give yourself ample time to enjoy pregame festivities. All college students love to sleep, but in the case of a home game one must make an exception, even if you went to bed in the wee hours of the morning after running around your dorm naked and belligerent.

The second rule of home games is that you must make an appearance at Indian Village. I know many will be involved in Greek life and their will be some responsibility to attend certain events, but at least make a short appearance at Indian Village. The electricity of this small apartment community is unmatched anywhere else on campus.

The third rule is to know the Seminole cheers. Everyone knows what the chop is, and then there is the F-L-O-R-I-D-A S-T-A-T-E, FLORIDA STATE, FLORIDA STATE, FLORIDA STATE, WHOOOO cheer. Most monkeys can be taught this simple cheer, so make sure you know it.

Finally, there is one rule that no one follows, which makes us lousy fans. Hear this. Do not leave the game early. I know that sometimes we are destroying the other team, but put this in perspective. There are only six home games the entire year.

Thursday nights:

Some would think that the weekends are the best nights to go out; however, this is not the case at FSU. Thursday is considered the weekend and is the best night out on the town. I would strongly advise freshmen to do their best at scheduling no classes on Friday's. Your grades will be better, trust me.

The best place in town on Thursdays is the Tennessee strip. I'll paint the scene. Floyd's has "The Buzz" where all the freshmen hang out, Ken's is where you can find the entire Phi Delt fraternity, Inn Between is the perfect place to relax, Big Daddy's is always jumping since the bar is the size of most master bedrooms, Yianni's is "The Place to be on Tennessee" with a great ladies night, Irish Pub is the best place to sing along to classic rock hits like "Pour Some Sugar on Me," and Bullwinkles may just have the strictest ID checks for those under 21.

Other appealing options on Thursday's include Potbelly's, the all-American college bar with great live music, Painted Lady, which is adjacent to Potbelly's and offers drinks in glasses (wow), and AJ's, a bar that is always packed and has somehow recruited the hottest babes in town as employees. I want to meet the man responsible for their employee recruitment.

Greek life:

Many freshmen wonder if they should get involved in Greek life. I would suggest it. The experience is great and you'll have more friends than a man with cookies at a NORML meeting. I remember my first social, when 100 beautiful girls flocked into the room at the same time. I was in heaven.

For those that don't want to do Greek life, don't worry. I've been inactive for years and nothing has changed. Greek people always do the same things. Greeks migrate like zebras in an African safari. The Greeks hang at Painted Lady on Thursday, Potbelly's happy hour on Friday, and The Plaza, formerly Sloppy Joes, on Friday nights. I'm still trying to figure out the Saturday destination. I'll get back to you on that.

Well, those are some things to look forward to and I'm running out of words. So here are my predictions for the next four years.

There is a 50 percent chance a freshmen girl will get breast implants by the time she graduates. Men will have two choices when it comes to hair: Sig Ep style (spiky hair that cannot be moved by water, wind or other forces of mother nature) or Shaggy style (the widespread panic look). Bobby Bowden will continue to not make sense in television interviews. Someone new from FSU will become famous on television in the next four years. T.K. Wetherell will be voted the coolest university president in the country. Chris Rix will not be remembered as an FSU great. Lorenzo Booker will be the next Warrick Dunn. Momo's will be recognized as the best slice of pizza in the country. Both President George W. Bush and Gov. Jeb Bush will be ousted from office after everyone sees "Fahrenheit 9/11." And finally, Miami will become the new capital of Florida and the whole state will suffer as a result.

Just kidding. Enjoy the year.

Piebald in your face

June 28, 2004

Emo king Piebald spits laughs in its hyper music. It wears humor on its sleeve. OK, maybe emo is an unfair tag -- given the status of the catchall term in these emo-saturated times. How about power pop? Yeah, like Weezer, but faster.

Forming in the mid-'90s during high school in Andover, Mass., the band has released numerous albums on the Big Wheel Recreation, including Barley Legal/All Ages. Boston became its home away from home with Piebald fueling the indie scene. Piebald's most recent release, All Eyes, All Ears, All the Time, came out in May. So like all good rock bands, the New England quartet has hit to road to promote, but more likely celebrate.

Piebald plays Monday, June 28 at Big Daddy's with the Jealous Sound, Northstar, Spitalfield and Punch White. The show starts at 8 p.m. and admission is $12

Heavy town, heavy tunes
Savannah band Baroness rocks out at Big Daddy's

by Amanda Jones
June 21, 2004

Down in Savannah, Ga., the live oak trees are dripping with Spanish moss and the humidity is so high it makes Forrest Gump's toes sweat in his Nikes. It's the perfect setting for the band Baroness, with crashing guitars and sweat dripping on its collective brow. Bassist Summer Welch knows Savannah is right place for the band.

"We get a lot of our influence from the town," Welch said. "It's just a heavy place, and the atmosphere where you live affects the way the music comes out."

But heavy is only one word to express the sound of the band. From that introduction to Baroness, it's easier to describe the group by the characteristics it doesn't have. It isn't a political band by any means. It isn't all that interested in deep, meaningful lyrics, but is more music oriented. And the band members aren't looking for extra attention.

"We're not very vocal when it comes to talking about ourselves," Welch said. "I think there's times when I should be more abrasive but that's just not how we work, so oh well. I think we've been well-received everywhere we've gone."

In the past year, Baroness traveled the East Coast almost exclusively. The band has toured twice in the southeastern states and as far north as Pennsylvania and Ohio. Tallahassee is the kick off for its first tour to the western United States and following the jaunt the band will spend August traveling from New York City up to Canada for 10 dates with The Forensics.

The past tours have been scheduled around spring and winter breaks for Welch and Allen Blickle, the band's drummer. Welch attends art school in Savannah, and Blickle is the lone band member living in Lexington, Ky., where all four band mates met during high school.

"We try to travel together," Welch said. "Sometimes we'll meet the drummer half-way. But we travel together as much as we can because we're not completely a band when it's just the three of us going back to Savannah. But you gotta do what you gotta do."

Doing what they "gotta do" sometimes means even more driving for the members of Baroness, while on tour in the band's Astro.

"We were in Louisville on tour, and we drove probably 10 hours out of our way to play in Savannah because Exhumed, this huge metal band, asked us to play," Welch said. "But there were so many people it was totally worth it. It was one of the most memorable shows so far."

A cancelled show in Baltimore led to another memorable concert for the band, when it was asked to play in a living room. The homeowner offered Baroness $50, a case of beer and a pizza to play for him and 10 of his friends.

"He threw three couches out the door, took the mattresses off his bed, he threw half his furniture out in the yard so the living room was empty," Welch said. "Then he said, 'play until the cops come.'"

Luckily no police were involved in the incident, but the band continues to have a sense of humor about itself and how audiences describe their music.

"Things I've heard other people say about us are hilarious," Welch said. "The best one was probably, Wyld Stallyns from 'Bill and Ted's (Excellent Adventure)' meets Slayer."

Stroll 'The Strip'
Mix a drink on West Tennessee Street

by Lynn Wallace
June 21, 2004

Tallahassee nightlife is a course all its own. And for some, learning about the city's best places to party may seem as hopeless and overwhelming as an impossible midterm with a dull No. 2 pencil as one's only weapon. But not to worry, A&E is here to ease the pain by guiding one down this dark street -- in this case, West Tennessee Street.

Some of Tallahassee's most popular bars can be found on what is known as the Tennessee Strip, the small string of bars and clubs located on West Tennessee Street next to McDonald's and across from Target Copy.

Some established outlets on the Tennessee Strip are Big Daddy's, Yianni's Cafe, the Irish Pub, Floyd's Music Store, Ken's Tavern, Bullwinkle's Saloon and Poor Paul's Pourhouse, to name a few.

Big Daddy's, which has resided in its current location for 10 solid years, offers live music six nights a week from local, regional and national bands as well as occasional themed nights. In addition, Thursday night brings in the dance party with a live DJ and open dance floor. The bar also attracts a varied crowd and prides itself on its eclectic charm.

"It's more well-rounded because the (shows) that we do (are) from rock to hardcore to punk, pretty much every type of music," Big Daddy's owner Robert Doe said. "So it brings out all different kids."

The bar is 18-plus, however some shows that may start earlier in the night are open to all ages.

Another key feature of the Tennessee Strip is Bullwinkle's Saloon. This bar is in its 25th year and offers live entertainment, both on the dance floor with a DJ and on the outside deck with a live band.

The 21-plus establishment holds credit to being mentioned in Playboy magazine on a list of the country's top 100 bars, as well as recently being named the Playboy college bar of the month.

Another unique aspect that Bullwinkle's holds is the option to join its Thirsty Moose Club. Here, one can buy a card for $40 that allows the cardholder to get in free every night of the year without paying a cover charge. The cards have been known to sell out fast, but the up-front purchase is also said to be worth the money.

A final club of mention is Floyd's Music Store. This establishment offers live shows consisting of local, regional and national acts. In addition to regular concerts, every Thursday night is "The Buzz," an 18-plus dance party complete with dance music and live DJ's.

Further information on the bars and clubs of the Tennessee Strip may be found on www.tallahasseeshows.com or by contacting each of the clubs directly.

Friend of the Devil
Reflux at Big Daddy's

by Matt Gilmour
June 07, 2004

If you are a fan of heavy music, then you will want to make sure you're at Big Daddy's Saturday night, because progressive-hardcore metal band Reflux will be there playing a set alongside Nodes of Ranvier, Crematorium and Glass Casket.

I've not heard of the other bands, so I can't say one way or another how good they are, but I know Reflux and I can say that they are worth the price of admission.

I was unable to get in touch with the band for an interview because, as of writing, they are on day seven of a 32-day tour. These guys are one of the hardest working bands out there -- they've dealt with near constant breakdowns of their van, small crowds and most recently, the unfortunate departure of founding member/co-vocalist John Mehoves, due to the possibility of permanent damage to his vocal chords.

But that hard work is paying off -- Reflux has finished recording its debut full-length album, which is currently being mixed. The members recently signed a deal with Prosthetic Records, home of such bands as the aforementioned Crematorium, and others like Himsa and Lamb of God.

They've played with such big names as Sick Of It All, Hatebreed, Mastodon and Meshuggah. And as some of you may know, they've earned a huge following here in Tallahassee -- so big that they decided to shoot video footage at a show at the Beta Bar back in November because they knew that it would capture the band at its best, performing in front of an enthusiastic, energetic crowd.

I have not yet had the pleasure of attending one of these packed shows, but I do have my own Reflux story, which I've made reference to in several articles. It goes like this. ...

My friend Paul had been raving about this underground metal band from Washington D.C. that was currently one of his favorites. He had the band's five-song demo and wouldn't stop going on about how incredibly talented they were and about the band's passionate political views.

Come November, it's the day before Paul's birthday and he convinces my roommate Tony and I to drive him up to Marietta, Ga. so we can see Reflux play at this club called Swayze's, and so he can ride with the band to its gig in Jacksonville with Poison the Well and Denali (yes, it was an odd line-up) and then back home to Tallahassee for the aforementioned Beta Bar show.

We had Tuesday off, so we said "What the heck?" and in early afternoon we embarked on the five and a half hour drive. We got there before Reflux did and it turned out that the other bands had canceled and there were maybe 10 people at most in attendance. We talked with the band (who are all very nice guys by the way) and despite the fact that the show was a bust, they decided to go on anyway and played an intense 30-minute set in spite of the situation.

I'm not normally into this style of music, particularly the barking-screaming vocals (though there are exceptions, like Dillinger Escape Plan and Mastodon), but Reflux's talent blew me away, particularly guitarist Tosin Abasi. Abasi is one of the best guitarists I have ever seen. But it was the band as a whole that was worth the trip.

If it weren't for the fact that I'm not in Tallahassee, working full-time and taking classes at UCF, I'd be making the drive to either Big Daddy's or to The Imperial in Jacksonville the day after. But since I can't, I'm asking you to be there for me. Reflux plays at Big Daddy's, along with Nodes of Ranvier, Crematorium, Glass Casket and The Ballad Reversed Saturday, June 12.

Admission is $8, doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30. The show is all-ages.

For more information on Reflux, one may visit its Web site at www.refluxsound.com.

Schatzi fights the sneers
Austin pop band plays Big Daddy's, unafraid of apathetic audience

by Matt Gilmour
May 24, 2004

In Stanley Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket," the character Sgt. Hartman tells his troops that only two things come from Texas. But had Hartman been around today he would be able to add one more thing to that list -- indie pop bands, like Austin favorites Schatzi. The band brings its brand of punk-pop to Big Daddy's Friday night for a show that'll be fun for the whole family (assuming the whole family likes catchy songs).

The creative nucleus of Schatzi is guitarist/vocalist Chris Kyle and guitarist/vocalist Monte Williams. The duo has gone through a revolving line-up of drummers and bassists, but up until recently had featured bassist Marc Fort and drummer Mark Ford. Currently, the rhythm section is comprised of drummer David (from Minneapolis band Attention) and bassist Davey M. (from Houston band The Westbury Squares).

"We're kind of dorky," Kyle said in an interview with The Austin Chronicle in March 2002. "There are certain ultra-hip audiences that don't get us. They'll stand still and clap so politely it's hard to tell if they love us or hate us. They kind of sneer, but it's tough to tell if it's just because they sneer all the time. I'm not sure what we are, but I guess we're not really an art-rock band."

Kyle and Williams had been playing in bands with each other since 1990 and have been performing under the name Schatzi (named after Kyle's grandmother's deceased dog -- it means "sweetheart" in German) since 1996.

"I had visited Austin a few months before and had a blast," Kyle said in an interview with www.naughtysecretaryclub.com. "I was attracted by the enormous amount of music going on every night and the creative energy that Austin has. I think Austin is an amazing place to live and play music. Sometimes I take it for granted because there are so many great bands and different sub-scenes here. It's great that a town of our size can support so many rock bands night after night and then there are 80 other types of music too."

The band started to pick up steam after the release of its Death of the Alphabet EP in 2000, which was recorded thanks to the benevolence of Mark Morris of Dynamite Hack, who helped Schatzi pay for the costs of recording an album with producer Ed Rose (The Anniversary, The Get-Up Kids). The band landed a spot at the famous South by Southwest Music conference show in Austin and shortly after signed a deal with Mammoth Records.

"We were scared to sign to a big label and get marketed down people's throats," Kyle said in an interview with Altarnative.com. "You see it all the time: bands that come out of nowhere and get on the radio and it looks like they're huge. Then the radio song goes away and the label (stops supporting them). If you don't sell enough records you're done."

Schatzi released its full-length debut, Fifty Reasons to Explode, in March 2002. Since then the band has been touring constantly with many like-minded bands, all struggling to make a name for themselves in the brutal reality of the music industry. But the band sees much to be optimistic about.

"One cool thing about all these bands, most of the bands we play with and like, there's really no competition," Kyle said in an interview with Aversion.com. "It's synergistic to all the bands. If a band like The Get Up Kids gets gigantic, it just exposes a lot more kids to something that's different. Now there's just a lot more kids who are open to stuff like that than would have been five years ago."

'Honestly' is serious about music
Young band finds support through file-sharing service

by Jennifer Smith
May 17, 2004

Within its first six months as a band, Honestly can honestly say it caused quite a stir. Formed just over one year ago, it has already put out an independently-released LP, which it is currently promoting.

The CD, Have a Nice Life, was produced by Daniel Mendez, whose credits include national acts Lit and Eve 6, and Dwight Baker who has produced music for Podunk and The Box Gods.

Though still unsigned, the band has toured with big-name bands including Third Eye Blind and the locally popular Big Sky.

"We played Potbelly's with Big Sky," guitarist Robert Attaway said.

However, as the band has done before at Big Daddy's, Honestly intends to headline this upcoming concert.

Honestly's musical influences range from U2 to the Beatles and the Police, but its music appeals to all ages though the band's age only averages to 21.

"We try to reach a really wide fan base with our music, but we have gotten the best response from high school and college age," Attaway said. "We have made it a point to tour college towns as much as possible."

With its fans tending to be part of a younger crowd, Honestly has also focused on its fans by playing many all ages shows on its tour.

"Our last show in Talahassee was great," Attaway said.

Another reason for its audience's youth is that much of the band's popularity has stemmed from Internet sites such as Rhapsody, which allows music to be downloaded for a fee. Rhapsody has helped in the promotion of Honestly's CD, and made the band one of its Featured Artists. With the growth of music downloads, this has certainly helped Honestly enjoy much success.

However, Honestly's music has also been heard on such youth-aimed programs as MTV's popular "Real World" and "Road Rules" shows. The band is quickly growing to become one of the most popular and well-known unsigned artists.

Radio has also picked up on the popularity of this young group. Stations across the South East, as well as satellite stations, have moved Honestly onto their playlist.

With all of this promotion, one would think the band would be ready to relax, but far from it. The band plays every night, including Tallahassee, with one thought in mind for its performance.

"To continue building our fan base," Attaway said.

The band's professionalism and drive has been praised, and it's easy to see why, but that doesn't mean its skill should be written off. Its quickly growing fame is still mostly due to the band's ability to write and perform music that strikes a chord with its fans.

For more information on Honestly, one may visit the band's Web site at www.honestlyband.com.

A night of 'Sun
Native Sun plays special show at Big Daddy's

by Jennifer Smith
April 19, 2004

Tallahassee is home to more than its share of local talent, with many artists signing major label record deals. Other bands, including Native Sun, have made their way to the supportive Tallahassee music scene from other areas.

Native Sun is originally from South Florida, but is working hard and getting its name out in Tallahassee. Native Sun has played several times before at Big Daddy's and generally draws a good crowd.

"We play about one or two shows a week, we try to get as many as possible and we are starting to book out of town," guitarist Dana Barkett said. "We get new fans at each show, but we have a real true fan base that loves our music and always catches our show."

Some of the band's fans are very supportive of the musicians they admire.

"I've had shots bought for me while on stage (and) had girls ask to get parts of them signed where you can only imagine," Barkett said.

The band's eclectic style draws from reggae, hip hop and rock music to create a sound all its own. Songs originate through the band's jam sessions.

At the upcoming show the band has special plans for the set, including sharing the stage with other artists not listed as performers at the show. Barkett mentioned working with dance hall performer Gari-Dee.

Barkett is also a co-founder for Native Sun's Talent is Us label, on which the band has produced a CD. He described the band and label as having independent mindsets and said the label plans to have nationwide distribution within a year.

"We're working on a new album that will be sure to blow away anything else in local music," Barkett said.

Barkett also pointed out that its current CD would be available at the show.

For more information about Native Sun and upcoming shows, one may visit the Talent is Us Web site at www.talentisus.com or the band's information page at www.tallahasseeshows.com.

Religious rock revived
Luna Halo spreads Christian rock music at Big Daddy's

by Angela Bontya
April 15, 2004

In 1998, Nathan Barlowe (vocals and guitar) and Jonny MacIntosh (guitar) left the band Reality Check to form Luna Halo. Together with Brad Minor (bass) they ventured into the music scene in an attempt to bring Christian music to a new level.

Luna Halo's sound is a mix of melodic rock and Euro-pop. Listeners can hear a blend of British rock and 1980s retro pop in Luna Halo's music.

With a record deal already established through Reality Check, Barlowe was left with the difficult task of trying to evolve Luna Halo.

"It has been hard at times, because we are having to grow up in front of everyone," Barlowe said in an interview with Popviews. "Most bands are together for a few years before they get a record deal, so all of these changes are done out of the public eye. We were not a band when we got our deal. We were two guys with guitars. So, I just see it as a natural part of growing."

In 2000, Luna Halo debuted with its album Shimmer on the Sparrow Records label, after completing its lineup with the addition of Jonathan Smith (drums, percussion). Shimmer revealed Luna Halo as one of the premiere modern rock bands in Christian music. The lyrics, written by Barlowe, are so catchy that anyone can sing along and are a testimony to Luna Halo's faith.

Japanese culture has had an influence on Luna Halo and its music. On the cover of Shimmer are three Japanese symbols that are translated as the moon, a halo and the ring around the moon. The Japanese themes inspired Luna Halo to place a hidden track at the end of the album.

"That was actually a poem I had written and the poem's actually written inside the album lyrics and it talks about shining and actually 'shimmering,'" Barlowe said in an interview with jesusfreakhideout.com. "I thought rather than just putting the poem in the album, we had already had the cover designed and it had the Japanese font that says Luna Halo in Japanese, it would tie in really cool to have a Japanese lady read the poem. So when we had decided to go with that whole Japanese theme, I found this lady in a Sushi restaurant and asked her if I could pay her to read this into my mini-disc and that's how it happened."

Barlowe speaks openly about sorrow and weakness in his lyrics.

"Everyone has struggles," Barlowe said. "Everyone has issues in their lives that can't be summed up and fixed in the space of a three minute song. If I'm writing about years of hurt and struggle, there's no way I can neatly tie up all the loose ends and fix the problem by the time the last chorus rolls around. It wouldn't be honest. Songs for me are more like snapshots. You can see the light of grace breaking into them, but one picture alone will never tell the whole story."

After a successful debut, Luna Halo went through a drastic change in its members. By 2001, Barlowe was the only original member of the band. Currently, Luna Halo consists of Aaron Jenkins (bass), Chris Coleman (drums) and Barlowe's brother Cary Barlowe (guitar).

These changes have proven to be successful for Luna Halo. Its song "Superman" was nominated for Best Rock/Alternative Song of the Year at the 2001 Dove Awards held in Nashville, Tenn.

Luna Halo has performed at festivals and clubs for thousands of people in 10 different countries. The band will return to Europe for a tour this July to play at festivals and clubs. Norway, Ireland, England and Sweden are a few of the countries where Luna Halo plans to spread its Christian rock.

Luna Halo has received good feedback through its live performances.

"I am finding that if we can just get in front of (people) live, we can win them over," Barlowe said to Popviews. "We are winning fans by playing live. I have been pleased with how people have responded, although I would like to see our fan base grow faster."

The future looks bright for Luna Halo as it continues to tour. The band will release a limited four-song EP April 20. The EP will only be sold at shows and on its Web site, lunahalo.com. Luna Halo is scheduled to begin recording another full length this summer.

Group promoting alcohol covenant
The Hospitality Resource Panel is seeking cooperation from area businesses

by Stephanie Evans
April 12, 2004

In recent years, the city of Tallahassee has tried several initiatives and passed several new ordinances to combat underage and irresponsible drinking in the capital city.

Now, one group is trying a new approach -- a completely voluntary one -- to wage that same battle.

The Hospitality Resource Panel, an alliance of business associations, government agencies and community organizations, including representation from Florida State University, is on a mission to get local businesses to sign a covenant promoting responsible drinking policies.

The Community Covenant on Hospitality calls on business owners to commit to, among other things, making sure to check the ID of anyone who is buying alcoholic beverages and appears to be younger than 30 years old, to attempt to prevent those who are underage from having access to alcohol and to providing safe transportation for people who appear to be overly intoxicated. The covenant also seeks to discourage bars and clubs from conducting "advertising that promotes high-risk, underage or irresponsible drinking."

Some of the organizations and businesses that have already signed the covenant are Floyd's Music Store, Gordo's Cuban Cuisine, Big Daddy's, Po'Boys Creole CafŽ and the Beer Industry of Florida, Inc.

"The HRP was founded in Tallahassee because of FSU's party school reputation," Hospitality Resource Panel Coordinator Dawn Pollock said. "That party reputation doesn't do anyone any good. FSU should be known for its academics, not for being a party school. It makes it hard to draw research money."

The Tallahassee HRP was formed to allow city businesses, law enforcement, students and the community in general to discuss some of the major issues that face the city. Besides campaigning to increase alcohol awareness, the HRP has helped the community voice their opinions on citywide issues and work together to develop solutions to make Tallahassee a better place to live. The panel meets once a month.

Other cities that have active HRPs, include San Diego and Monterey, Calif. Seattle, Chicago, Philadelphia and Athens, Ga., but none of those cities have developed a covenant like Tallahassee's.

A program similar to the Community Covenant on Hospitality was implemented in New Zealand and the results have been positive, however, as Pollack warns, "New Zealand is very different from Tallahassee."

'Kick Ass' bands play showcase
Five local bands share management, take the stage

by Derick Braun
April 01, 2004

Featuring local bands Youtragedy, Punch White, FiNdiNg AqUiLa, The 78 and Capitol Speedway, the Web site www.bandsthatkickass.com is holding a musical showcase Friday night at Floyd's Music Store

"The point of this show is to showcase an unbelievable amount of local talent for practically nothing," manager for the bands represented on www.bandsthatkickass.com and owner of Big Daddy's Robert Doe said. "Tallahassee has one of the best music scenes in the world right now -- kids in this town should be proud of these bands. Youtragedy is a hardcore band. It mixes elements of metal and hardcore -- some call it 'metal-core.' It is one of the more gifted bands of that genre in the Southeast and just finished a six song EP."

Punch White is a three-piece band, with strong ties to Southern blues-rock. It recently played FSU's Homecoming and also has a six-song EP completed. With a strong following in Tallahassee and the exposure from Homecoming, the band is on the verge of breaking out.

FiNdiNg AqUiLa is a young emo-rock band with one of the biggest followings in town. The five-member group is best known for its catchy hooks and distinctive melodies. Less than a year old, the band plans on heading into the studio in early June.

The 78 is more of an emotionally driven, hard rock band that is widely known around Tallahassee. It has played with numerous national acts and major venues in the Southeast and is attracting interest from major labels.

Formed in 2003, Capitol Speedway is quickly becoming one of the most popular bands in town. Finding influence in the rocking sounds of AC/DC, Foo Fighters and Bon Jovi, the band is known for blazing guitar solos and up-tempo, feet-stomping music.

Capitol Speedway won the battle of the bands last year held at the Beta Bar and now has a single, "In Your Arms," playing in regular rotation on X101.5. The band is notorious for its "in your face" live show.

If those bands aren't enough, with the purchase of a ticket to the show at Floyd's, one gets free admission to a late-night, farewell show for beloved local band Raygun.

"Raygun is an '80s cover band that was started as a side project for a bunch of guys in the other bands," Doe said. "With the other bands getting bigger and touring and such, keeping the side project viable is becoming too demanding so they are going to give it a rest for awhile."

For more information, one may visit the Web site, www.bandsthatkickass.com; Big Daddy's Web site, www.drinkfreebeer.com or Floyd's Web site, www.floydsmusicstore.com.

'Warbirds' juice up

March 25, 2004

A definition of rock 'n' roll: A husband (drums) and wife (guitar/vocals) that live in an RV, so they can tour non-stop, whose new EP WARBIRD is following a 2002 full length titled I Name You Destroyer. Include: a picture of Amber Valentine and Ed Livingston.

And now the thick and chunky sounds of Jucifer return to Tallahassee. Satan's little two-piece, Jucifer fits the above definition.

Fans can hear more metal-bending sonic escapades on WARBIRD (released March 9 on Velocette Records). The doom and gloom of bass-heavy rock (though the band has no actual bass player, it's there) is layered with Valentine's sometimes sweet, sometimes nasty vocals and Livingston's big beats from badsville.

"My ideal guitar sound is massive and resonant, with plenty of sustain and a bit of dissonance," Valentine said to Guitar Player. "I like to hear strings vibrating, floors rattling and air moving."

Jucifer plays Big Daddy's March 27 with Youth Tragedy and Hybris. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9.

Line-up changes plague 'Tokyo'

March 15, 2004

Growing pains is at the soul of Tokyo Rose's material. Post college disillusionment and hearbreak are the usual fodder for the New Jersey pop-punk band's lyrical content. Reinventing a Lost Art is the group's debut.

"Well, now I'm 21 going on 22, and I draw a lot on experiences like failed relationships and successful relationships; and also I try and draw from parts of society that I see," member Ryan Dominguez said to Scratchmagazine.com. "I just want to speak out on things that effect me.

Since forming in 2001, the members of Tokyo Rose have been completely shuffled to form an entirely new band with new material. Not a single member of 2004's Tokyo Rose was around during its formation.

"Well, with all these line-up changes, it's hard," Dominguez said to Scratchmagazine.com. "But one thing we do before shows is we all make fun of each other. This way we don't take ourselves too seriously."

Tokyo Rose plays Big Daddy's with Audio Karate and Big Collapse Tuesday, March 16. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 10 p.m.

Spring Break music in Tallahassee
Sneak a peak at next week's biggest concerts

by Derick Braun
March 04, 2004

A&E recommends these concerts for Spring Breakers stuck in Tallahassee:

Girls on Film with Eugenic and Nine Leaf at the Beta Bar Saturday, March 6.

Girls on Film is a local, all girl band raised on the fundamentals of '80s new wave. Its stylized stage presence and in-your-face showmanship will transport one back to the days of the Bangles and Go-Go's. Powered by keyboard instead of guitar, the band demonstrates authentic, synthesized '80s fun that Human League and Devo would be proud to hear.

Eric Culberson and the E-Rock Band at the Bradfordville Blues Club Saturday, March 6.

Every once in a while, an artist emerges from the Deep South and bursts upon the blues scene. Eric Culberson is one of those few. His style is unmistakably energetic, gritty and blessed with charisma. Culberson's raw attack also comes with a lot of rock pyrotechnics, and seldom does he lay back in his approach, which can be positively blazing on instrumentals like "High Steppin'" and "Savannah Swing."

Southern Culture on the Skids with Willie Heath Neal and The Alaskan Pirate and His Salty Seamen at the Beta Bar Sunday, March 7.

A tongue-in-cheek party band, Southern Culture on the Skids brings its sex, food and hotrod-obsessed music to Tallahassee in support of its latest album Mojo Box. For nearly 20 years, the band has been persistently touring, perfecting its fusion of hillbilly country with psychedelic-surf rock, launching the genre 'psychobilly rock.'

Capitol Speedway, Hopesick, Punch White and White Trash Messiahs at Big Daddy's Tuesday, March 9.

Four local bands will be playing together at Big Daddy's in an all out Tallahassee rock fest. Each band celebrates different styles of rock. Capitol Speedway is quickly becoming Tallahassee's next "It" band. Hopesick is a five-member powerhouse band combining turbo punk with hardcore, spontaneous melodies and primitive screams, and is known for bizarre stage antics. The trio Punch White melds Weezer pop with Smashing Pumpkins melody, adding a fresh fusion sensibility and tormented authority. White Trash Messiahs is a punk rockabilly band, using songs to both celebrate and mock pop culture.

Eddie Kirkland and the High Energy Band at the Bradfordville Blues Club Friday, March 12.

Eddie Kirkland has been living the blues for decades. A legend with the guitar and the harmonica, Kirkland has toured and recorded extensively since 1961. He also has been known for crazy stunts, his most famous includes playing the guitar while standing on his head.

Alabama at the Civic Center Saturday, March 13.

The classic country band is retiring with a nationwide tour. Its harmonies and songwriting are strongly rooted in country and bluegrass, but musically the band has crossed over slightly into rock and pop, and its popularity has caused the resurgence of the 'country band' in the '80s.

The truth about Honestly
Promising unsigned band plays Big Daddy's

by Angela Bontya
February 23, 2004

Formed in April 2003, Honestly has already begun to receive national attention with its constant touring and radio exposure. Honestly's music has soaring pop melodies and emotional lyrics, combined with gritty guitar hooks and radio-ready arrangements.

The band consists of five members -- Justin Land (lead vocals), Rob Attaway (guitar, piano and vocals), Matt Dashner (bass), Matt Melton (guitar and vocals) and Joe Thibodeau (drums and programming).

Honestly has played at Big Daddy's in the past, and has chosen to come back to Tallahassee because it enjoys the town and the people.

"Playing in Florida, especially Tallahassee, is just a lot more fun than playing pretty much anywhere else," Attaway said. "It's a great environment to play a show in. And, it's so great for us to feel like we have a relationship with our fans here. It goes beyond just being a band playing music for people ... we really want to be approachable and build relationships with everyone we can."

Honestly also enjoys getting to know its fans.

"We always love playing in college towns, especially at venues where people come out to hear music and just have a good time," Land said. "It's really cool when people come to check us out, but then leave with a sense that we've connected and gotten to know each other a little bit."

Within Honestly's first month as a band, it debuted in the top 10 on the sales charts of Rhapsody/Listen.com. Honestly released its debut album, Have A Nice Life, six months after its formation. Its music has been licensed by MTV for "The Real World" and "Road Rules."

The band was also featured as the Artist of the Month on Atlanta Blue Sky Internet Radio in September of 2003 and NewWaveMusic.net in October 2003. Five tracks from Have A Nice Life have received consistent radio airplay since its debut.

Honestly was given the opportunity to join recording artist Third Eye Blind for part of its fall tour in November and December 2003.

"This is a rock band that can from track to track show its capacity to rock out with the best of them, or be tenderly mellow," CultureDose.net's Aly Walansky said. "I receive dozens of CDs every week and have come to the point were sometimes I hope new releases are slow in coming, but with Honestly, I'm chomping at the bit to hear more."

An instrumental version of Honestly's "Strange Way" is featured in the trailer for the upcoming Disney film "Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen." "Run" and "Nine Til Midnight" were featured on an episode of the series "America's Next Top Model: Season Two" Feb. 3, 2004. The band can also be heard on nearly 20 radio stations nationwide.

In January 2004, Alternative Addiction released its big "Best of 2003" awards and Honestly finished the year at No. 3 in the nation on the "Best Unsigned Bands of the Year" chart. It is currently in the top 100 on the adult alternative charts, making them the only unsigned band in the nation on the chart.

"This (CD) is far too good to be unsigned," Melodic.net reviewer Par Winberg said. "This band is a diamond in the making."

'Amish' attack Big Daddy's
Amish Armada no stranger to stage fright

by Danielle Harling
January 22, 2004

The story of the Amish Armada is rather detailed and has enough characters to fill Ruby Diamond twice (not really, but you get the point), so patience is a must.

It all began with a man by the name of Elijah Erb the Beloved. Elijah was loved by all of Villeburgston, Pa. All the attention Elijah was getting stemmed jealousy into the other boys of Villeburgston. So the boys of Villeburgston devised a plan to set up the beloved Elijah and have him found guilty of crimes never thought possible by such a boy. Sadly enough, Elijah was convicted and so his life came to an end (until he is later brought back as Living Dead Elijah Damned).

As the industrialist east was rapidly expanding west, the residents of Villeburgston became very frightened. And so it was Cal Hopkins to the rescue. Hopkins formed the first Amish Armada in order to keep the industrialists out of Villeburgston. The Amish Armada consisted of the fiercest young men of Villeburgston. With his Amish Armada armed and ready, Hopkins set out for Corporatown, N.J. Once the Armada and Hopkins had arrived in Corporatown, the Armada was ordered to tear everything in sight. Hopkins had other things on his agenda to take care of first, upon arrival to Corporatown he headed straight for the castle of Technolojesus.

Unfortunately, Hopkins was defeated by Technolojesus who was just too strong for Hopkins. With no more Cal Hopkins and a non-existent Amish Armada, the people of Villeburgston eventually gave in to the industrialism of its eastern predecessors. Although dead, Cal Hopkins used his remaining powers to bring Elijah Erb the Beloved back as Living Dead Elijah Damned. And so the second Amish Armada was formed.

With a creative and gripping story like this, most have to wonder what the Amish Armada's music sounds like. With Living Dead Elijah Damned on vocals, Ezekiel the Maliced on vocals and guitar, Jebadiah the Hunted on drums (and about five more Armada members;) it's no surprise that the Amish Armada has enough manpower to rock for days. And with the help of Gargamel, Scheme and Stage Fright the Amish Armada is sure to have Big Daddy's rockin' all night (and maybe even morning) long.

Now that this silly story is public, go see the band, sporting Amish zombie costumes.

Luna Halo brings heavenly rock
New band joins the Dreamworks roster

by Ben Yadon
January 19, 2004

Luna Halo was formed from the remnants of the now-defunct band Reality Check. After seven years of playing together, the four members of Reality Check decided to pursue different things, leaving singer/guitarist Nathan Barlowe and guitarist Johnny MacIntosh without a full band.

Without ever looking back, the two recruited bassist Brad Minor and drummer Jonathan Smith to form Luna Halo and released Shimmer, the band's full-length debut in 2000. Shimmer received strong reviews from the mainstream rock press and Christian rock critics alike.

The band seemed poised for crossover success with a polished upbeat alternative-pop sound before label problems sidelined the band and prevented Luna Halo from releasing any subsequent full-lengths. The Nashville-based quartet pushed on however, spending the time away from the studio to tour extensively, both domestically and at festivals in places as remote as Holland, Germany, England, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Ireland.

"We have recently been invited to perform at the South by Southwest music festival in Austin," lead singer Barlowe said.

The break between albums has not been without any creative output; to keep its growing fan base happy, Luna Halo released two four-song EPs in 2002.

"We have also been opening shows lately for Dreamworks recording artist Ours," Barlowe said. "We will begin recording for Dreamworks later this month."

With the stability and support of a label like Dreamworks, Luna Halo is sure to make a splash on television and radio in the near future.

"Luna Halo is a band that mixes raw emotion and energetic rock 'n' roll," Barlowe said. "Every show is a different experience for the audience."

Luna Halo will be sharing the stage at Big Daddy's with Evoka, a North Carolina-based band that has opened for Luna Halo on this leg of the tour. Evoka has released one EP and has more in the pipeline for the upcoming year. The band's songs have earned it comparisons to U2. The show will offer a glimpse at two up-and-comers that have been making a lot of noise in the Christian alternative world.

Break the code, enjoy some rock
Florida band Code Sunshine heads to studio, plays Big Daddy's first

by Hilary Johnson
January 15, 2004

From the looks of it, Orlando, Fla.-based Code Sunshine has discovered the road that leads to rock star success. With its "indie-fused modern rock" style, the band has gone on to win numerous rock competitions around the Orlando area and is considered one of Florida's most talked about bands. It was recognized on the growing online empire of Soundwerkz.com, a Jacksonville-based A&R and band development Web site, as a featured artist.

"I recommend 'I Drink Alone' and 'Last Man Standing,'" Soundwerkz.com founder Rob Gilmore said. "The group is garnering positive reviews in press and on MP3.com. It's early -- and these guys are worth checking out."

In 2002, Code Sunshine was one of only 10 bands to make it into the finals for the Jim Beam Rock Band Search, sponsored by Jim Beam and Rolling Stone. The band placed fourth in the contest, but considers that to still be quite a feat, since it was the last band to join the contest lineup and didn't have as much time to publicize the event.

In March, Code Sunshine is heading into the studio with notable producer and engineer, Sylvia Massy Shivy, who has worked with such bands as Tool, Red Hot Chili Peppers, R.E.M. and the late Johnny Cash. Her loud and aggressive style will be well suited to the band's edgy, eclectic approach to rock music.

The band has played in many renowned music venues in the state including the USF Sun Dome in Tampa, Hard Rock Live in Orlando and Tallahassee's Floyd's Music Store.

Code Sunshine has also played with many of the state's other up-and-coming bands including Tallahassee's Socialburn and New Address, and Yellowcard of Jacksonville, Fla.

Through its incessant touring the band has gained the respect of many of the bands it plays with.

"(Code Sunshine) is scary-good live," guitarist for New Address Justin Long said. "It's always a little hard to go on after it."

That will be $5, please

by Brendan Murphy
December 01, 2003

I really wish that the bars in Tallahassee did not have a cover charge. Last Saturday I was looking forward to starting off my night at Yianni's and then working my way down to the Irish Pub, but this was not the case. I only had $10 to go out (it is the end of the semester) so I figured I could take advantage of the free cover before 11 p.m. at Yianni's and then work my way down to the Pub and pay my $4 cover.

When I arrived at Yianni's it was 11:01 p.m. and obviously the dude at the door would not cut me a break and charged me the $5. Now, instead of $10 I had $5, which would leave me with $1 to spend at the pub after cover. I could not even buy the $3 penny pitcher. Bottom line: my night was ruined by a cover charge.

So, what would life be like without cover charges? I thought about this and realized that there are pros and cons to the situation. Without a cover charge people would not have to commit to one bar and could enjoy many bars.

Take the block party offered on Tennessee Street for instance. People pay one cover and get to enjoy the Pub, Lower Lounge, Martini's, Floyd's and Big Daddy's. This is what life would be like. I would love to start my night enjoying the great drink specials at Bullwinkle's and then make my way over to Yianni's around 12:30 a.m. when all the beautiful women seem to show up. If I got bored with the hip-hop music at Yianni's, I could head down to the Pub, play some pool and listen to one of the 30 times "Pour Some Sugar on Me" plays. I could even leave the strip area and go stand in line for an hour at AJ's. Or I could head to Potbelly's and drink with all the 18- year-olds.

Now herein lies the problem: driving.

When and if there were no cover and students could go bar hopping, people would also be driving under the influence of alcohol. I don't know how others feel, but I am freaked out driving around this city on a nightly basis. We should all be aware that on any given weekend half the people on the road probably had something to drink.

Never mind the fact that we are living in the world of the "Fast and the Furious." Being from Boston, I am flabbergasted at how many cars are tricked out with rims and spinners. These people love their cars and decide to show what the car is capable of, more so when they have a buzz.

So is eliminating cover charges a positive? No.

I love this school and I love partying, but we need to admit we party a bit harder than the average university. The last thing we need at this University is an excuse to buy more alcohol and to drive around under the influence. The drinks in Tallahassee are cheap compared to cities like New York ($9 drafts), so we should not complain. Besides, these cover charges allow bars to recruit music talent, too. Cover charges will hopefully replace the pool tables at the Pub or pay for the addition of a second urinal at Ken's.

I mean, one urinal for an entire bar of men?

Unravel a musical 'Mystery'
Local band Pocket Novel Mystery to play Big Daddy's tomorrow night

by Matt Gilmour
December 01, 2003

One of Tallahassee's best unsigned acts, Pocket Novel Mystery will take the stage tomorrow night with a show at Big Daddy's with fellow locals Eugenic.

Named after a song by Killing Darlings, a former band of vocalist/guitarist Steve Taylor, drummer Marcus Delano and recently departed guitarist Shane Byrd, Pocket Novel Mystery formed in 2000 and began weaving a variety of styles together to create a sound that defies classification.

"I know everyone says this, but our sound crosses a lot of genre-boundaries," Taylor said. "We've got elements of indie-rock, post-rock, alt-country, psychedelic pop, space-rock, new wave and prog-rock, but I wouldn't say we fit comfortably into any one of those genres."

The origins of Pocket Novel Mystery date back even earlier than the formation of Killing Darlings 10 years ago in Panama City, Fla. Before then, Taylor, Byrd, Delano and future wife Erica Gilbert (bass) had spent years playing together in various local bands.

"Killing Darlings broke up when I left Panama City to become a student at FSU," Taylor said. "I met my wife Lori (vocals/keyboard) a couple of years later and we began writing and recording songs together under the name Tangemeenie. Tangemeenie's independently produced album, Faust, was released in 2000 on Animal World Recordings. Lori and I started playing with Marcus and Erica live as Tangemeenie. Shane got involved not long after that and before long, the five of us had started writing new material, and it just seemed natural to go in a different direction."

Pocket Novel Mystery has played shows with such artists as the Mountain Goats, Iron & Wine, Bloodthirsty Lovers, Enon, Bardo Pond, the Walkmen and the Starlight Mints, among others. The band released The Pieces of Grace EP in 2002 and followed it up with its full-length debut album Eight Days in the Life of Grace earlier this year.

"Our CD release party at the Beta Bar (with the Cold After and the Close) was a great experience," Taylor said. "We made new friends, had an incredible time and really felt we were playing to an audience that appreciated us. There was an amazing feeling of community that night."

The album's 10 tracks were recorded with the help of friends Tom Parker, guitarist for local band Mira, and J.J. Crews in Panama City. Tallahassee musicians Elisabeth King (accordion) and Thea Borass (cello) make guest appearances on the album.

"We tend to work pretty closely together when we write now, but when we first got together, we scavenged a lot of older material that I had written on my own," Taylor said. "Most of the songs on Eight Days in the Life of Grace were built around parts that I brought to rehearsals, which we then arranged as a group. Our current writing process is completely collaborative though."

The band is currently working a new guitarist into the lineup and writing material to record for its next release. The band has an upcoming show at the Beta Bar Tuesday, Dec. 19 and is trying to find a label to sign with.

"We've already been selling a limited, pre-release version of (Eight Days in the Life of Grace) at live shows, but our hope is to eventually release the album on a label that can really afford to promote and distribute it," Taylor said. "Ideally, we'd like to release it on a well-established independent label. A major label recently showed some interest in us, but this particular label was not a good match. We're really shooting for a label with a solid commitment to artistic development."

For more information, check out the band's official Web site at www.pocketnovelmystery.com.

Rock goes clandestine
The secret agents of My Hotel Year wear no disguise Tueday at Big Daddy's

by Hilary Johnson
November 24, 2003

My Hotel Year (MHY), a group of four indie-rocking O-town boys, is about to make its way back into Tallahassee. Throughout, its doing cartwheels down a pier in Savannah, Ga., climbing atop Sam Houston's head in Texas and a near miss visit to Alcatraz in California, MHY is out to have a good time, and to make some awesome music while at it.

With a fierce fan base up the East Coast, the South and Midwest, MHY has people traveling near and far to see it play. The band stays connected through something called a "WAP PORTAL," a device that allows fans to keep updated on MHY through their cell phones.

"Agent" Ryan Fleming, one of the band's guitarists and singers, uses the code phrase, "rock it or die." He is in the field of intelligence and his alias is "The Beard." Peculiar, yes, but in order to express themselves to fans, the members of MHY each picked out secret agent code names, phrases and fields.

Drummer and the only non-vocalist in the band, Patrick O'Neal is in the field of demolition, uses the alias "Trogdor" and his code phrase is "burninate the peasants." Travis Adams, the other guitarist and vocalist, goes by the alias "Skittles" and uses the phrase, "holy crap." Such a profound statement stems from his involvement in the field of communications.

James Woodrich, the bassist, is in the field of munitions, has the alias "Saddlebags" and his code phrase is "deleted."

Aside from being funny, none of that is very informative. But, it keeps fans amused and coming back for more.

MHY's ability to straight-up rock is mixed in with a pinch of emo and a dash of punk. The sound is sort of anti-genre, but at the core of it, it rocks hard.

One new song, "Breathing Patterns," starts hauntingly slow with the lyrics, "You'll never know how you sing when you're asleep/ And I'm listening, I'm listening" and moves into a burst of energetic sound with the singer at the top of his lungs crying, "For my name."

"6 a.m" sounds like an alarm going off too early in the morning. It comes in suddenly and jerks around, opening with the words, "Wake up ... it's 6 a.m."

On the flip, the song "Key Exchange" is sad and heavy. Both songs are on MHY's first album, Composition of Ending and Phrasing. And after a struggle with its old label, MHY just released a seven-track EP that can be bought on its Web site http://myhotelyear.com.

Boxelder 'making history'
West Palm's Boxelder makes contagious reggae

by David Dresner
October 16, 2003

Boxelder, the West Palm, Fla.-based reggae band, will bring the groove to Big Daddy's Friday, Oct. 17. The band, named after a maple tree native to the panhandle, has become successful since its formation in 1995. This year marks its first live album release, Live Under the Sun, and Boxelder's been sharing stages with national acts like Lenny Kravitz, Keb Mo and The Doobie Brothers.

Because of its blend of funk, reggae and alternative rock, a large grassroots following and a never-ending live concert circuit, Boxelder has become one of the most interesting independent rock bands around.

Boxelder is currently comprised of Matt Cuhar (guitar), Eli McDonald (guitar), Bryce Rutkowski (vocals/percussion), Jay Foster (bass) and Pat Boggs (drums). The band agrees that forming its own record label, Roots Music, Inc., and managing itself has proven to be a good move.

"Corporate rock has its limits," drummer Boggs said. "Independent rock is limitless."

The band's willingness to rely on itself for management has paid off. Since forming Roots Music, Inc., Boxelder has begun to receive national attention on XM Radio and the ESPN X-Games. It's also performed onstage at large festivals like SunFest and the Great Southern Music Harvest.

"We're making history right now," the band said on its Web site at www.boxelder.com. "This is the year we make the big push to go from regional band to national band."

Additionally, the band has released three studio albums: Seed in 1997, What For in 1999 and Love Light Affection in 2001. Boxelder's albums are currently sold at large record stores, but the band recognizes that the majority of merchandise sales happen at the band's highly anticipated live shows.

Boxelder songs like "Love Light Affection" and "Wonder'n" prove to be uplifting reggae jams.

"We are ultimately grateful to the people that come to the shows and listen," Boxelder said on its Web site. "They are the ones who allow us to live our dreams of making music."

It is very fitting that the band's first gig was held outdoors at a party to celebrate an incoming hurricane in South Florida. With over 100 shows a year, radio play, its own record label, thousands of album sales, and an exciting live show, Boxelder is quickly increasing in strength and size.

AquaNet finds a new home
1980s-inspired hair metal band Raygun, plays Big Daddy's once a month

by James Miller
October 02, 2003

New local band Raygun, composed almost entirely of Florida State University students, is quickly becoming a fixture in the rock community. Featuring members of other local bands Alongside Burgundy and The Avenue, the group will be performing the first Saturday of every month at Big Daddy's. The band, billed as "the ultimate '80s cover band," owes much to the club's manager.

"The band started out as just a cool idea that a couple of us had," lead guitarist Jesse Mazur said. "Since we hang out at Big Daddy's a lot, we mentioned the idea to them and they liked it so much that they booked a show right there on the spot and Raygun was born."

Raygun is dedicated to preserving the rich tradition of '80s hair metal, complete with acid wash jeans and liberal use of hair spray. The band dresses as its favorite '80s icons, with vocalist Anthony Gerbasio playing Brett Michaels of Poison, drummer James Marshall trying his best at Tommy Lee of Motley Cru', bassist Rich Bolandi working Gene Simmons of Kiss, rhythm guitarist Justin Gillespie doing a Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi and Mazur shredding as Slash of Guns N' Roses.

"Performing is the single greatest feeling in the world," Mazur said. "I think we all feel at home on the stage rocking out to our favorite music."

The band is a crowd favorite at Big Daddy's due to the immense popularity of its varying set list, which is composed of '80s hits like "Livin' On a Prayer" by Bon Jovi, "Pour Some Sugar On Me" by Def Leppard, "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC, "Sweet Child of Mine" by Guns N' Roses and the perennial favorite "I Wanna Rock 'n' Roll All Night" by Kiss. Raygun exclusively plays '80s hair metal.

"We are all from different parts of New Jersey and wanted to play the music we love," Mazur said.

New Jersey, which acted as a catalyst for hair metal, was home to one of the genre's biggest bands, Bon Jovi. Bon Jovi eulogized the state in the band's 1988 album New Jersey. And Raygun has been able to rise above the title of a mere 'cover' or 'tribute' band.

"Opening for Vince Neil was amazing," Mazur said. "It was the perfect crowd to play for since it already loves that style of music. Sharing the stage with one of our idols was also an amazing experience. We appreciate Vince for allowing us to open for him, and we'd love to open for him, or any other '80s band, again in the future."

Raygun doesn't have plans to play outside Tallahassee. For now it will remain a local phenomenon. For more information on Raygun or Big Daddy's, visit the club's Web site at www.drinkfreebeer.com.

Cowpunk saviors saddle up
White Trash Messiahs celebrate birthday bash at Big Daddy's

by Lynn Wallace
September 29, 2003

Based on the idea of a "dirty" South, and not afraid to admit it, the White Trash Messiahs shows Tallahassee that sometimes, it's good to have a little edge. Consisting of Eric Holdos on vocals and guitar, Jay Eastman on bass, Andy Bolin on rhythm guitar and Ryan Panucci on drums, this quartet can never fail in providing a good time.

The band first formed by Holdos in 2001, and its members have been influenced by music starting from an early age.

"I grew up in white trash Arkansas, so country was a big influence when I was younger," Bolin said. "I got influenced into punk rock when I was older and I was in a punk band -- so was Jay."

With other influences such as NOFX, Descendents, AC/DC, Van Halen and Johnny Cash, the band can't help but result in a mix of punk, hard rock and country.

"If Motorhead was a country band, and it listened to lots of NOFX, that's what the White Trash Messiahs would most sound like," Holdos said. "It's like a melting pot of all those musical styles and we kind of meet in the middle."

When asked where inspiration to write songs comes from, Holdos joked and said, "'Jerry Springer Show."

"Not literally," Holdos said. "But just the idea of presenting an outrageous story."

The band doesn't have any albums to date, only a few songs for download on its official Web site, whitetrashmessiahs.com, but as far as this group is concerned, it doesn't matter. It's all about the live show.

"It's colorful music," Bolin said. "A lot of our songs are fairly humorous, dealing with the lighter side, kind of poking fun at white trash America."

Having played at venues such as Big Daddy's, Beta Bar, Floyd's Music Store and Club Downunder, the band remains a favorite for local crowds.

"When you go to a show, you want to see a show," Bolin said. "You don't want to see a band just standing there. It's a visual as well as an audio experience."

The other members agree with Bolin.

"We have delivery and high energy," Holdos said. "We just like to go loud and fast."

The band's next show is labeled the "Birthday Bash," and all for good reason.

"It's my birthday," Holdos said. "Our manager let me pick all the bands that will play that night and I'll have my birthday party there."

Worship Jucifer

September 18, 2003

After disposing of all its worldly possessions, husband/wife duo Jucifer headed out on the road, visiting the wide open spaces of America. Playing experimental metal, filled with gaps of silent instrument tinkering -- which bursts into screaming -- Jucifer has not stopped playing shows since the release of 2002's I Name You Destroyer. There's talk of a double album in the future, but right now, Amber Valentine (guitar/vocals) and Ed Livengood (drums) are too busy creating enjoyable racket in the form of dastardly metal that surely frightens children yet makes headbangers weep. Jucifer plays Big Daddy's Saturday, Sept. 20 with Cream Abdul Babar and Fish House Punch. Photo courtesy of Capricorn Records

'Holiday' at Big Daddy's
Local bands share some space

by Hilary Johnson
July 28, 2003

Welcome to the underground world of Tallahassee's new incarnation of punk. Tallahassee has a brotherhood of bands that, while gracing its viewers with its presence, is a tight-knit musical community. These bands play together, request each other for shows and are always there throwing support when not playing together.

Rightside Holiday is an integral part of this network. It shares a practice space (storage unit) with three other local bands. During the interview, some members of other local bands were hanging out and others were calling on the phone. The ones at the interview played an active role in the conversation and the connection they have both as musicians and as fans.

The band started as two girls; Holiday's bass player Shana Jones and lead singer Sandy Pate, deciding they wanted to start a band. Neither cared if they knew their prospective instruments; Jones and Pate just wanted to be in a band. So they learned, and the band grew from there.

Rightside Holiday has developed and evolved over the past four and a half years. The group has really taken shape with its five current members, who have only been together since last November.

"I'm never going deny that my lyrics are emo," Pate said, when she and Shana were exploring the various sides of their sound.

There is a definite pop feel to the music, which is mostly guitarist Mike Ampula's influence. Merrill Munoz, the other guitarist and writer of most the music, is the punk influence.

"Now as we're getting tighter as a group, we can play faster songs," Jones said. "Merrill can play anything, but I learned to play bass in this band. And Mike had never played punk before."

When people ask Munoz to describe Rightside Holiday's music, he replies to them by handing them a CD and telling them to listen for themselves.

Check out Rightside Holiday Tuesday, July 29 at Big Daddy's. The show starts at 10:30 p.m. with The Avenue, Preacher's Kid and AfterAll sharing the stage.

Big Daddy's has Gadwell Lane

July 14, 2003

Tallahassee's Gadwell Lane, which features three FSU students, joins forces with Isaiah Moon and Hand Honey for a show at Big Daddy's -- Tennessee Street's up and comer for live music (four nights a week). The members of Gadwell Lane split their time with the Film School and School of Theatre wh