News & Features

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Saturday, Mar 4th, 2006

CHRIS WHITLEY BENEFIT MARCH 5 2006

Legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist, 45 year old, Chris Whitley died of lung cancer on November 20, 2005. Chris leaves behind a younger brother Dan, an older sister Bridget, and daughter Trixie. A man of rare poetic honesty, Chris Whitley maintained a resolute musical integrity throughout his career. Chris was kind enough to take part in our tribute to honor Houston musician Tim McGlashen.

Two tribute concerts for Whitley will take place in Austin and Houston. Proceeds will in part benefit a trust fund for Trixie Whitley. NDUGU will debut at these shows. NDUGU once again pairs the sonic rhythm section of Robert Woodrich (vocals, bass) and Danny Lee (drums). On electric guitar will be none other than Harry O, and joining in on sax, Tim Kochen from the Buddhacrush. Throughout the years the members of NDUGU have been apart of such legendary bands as The Zealots, the Buddhacrush, Tomorrow and The Cry. NDUGU is very honored and grateful to pay tribute to such talented artist as Chris Whitley.

The Whitley benefit for the Houston area will take place at Warehouse Live on Sunday, March 5. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 7:30 p.m. Current artists to perform include Shawn Colvin, Charlie Sexton, Vernon Reid, DJ Logic, Doug Pinnick, the Sonnier Brothers, the Dan Whitley Band, John Egan, Arthur Yoria and NDUGU. Warehouse Live is located at 813 St. Emmanual Street, Houston, Texas. Advance tickets are $20 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

In Austin, the show will be held at The Glenn on Saturday, March 4, with the same lineup, but will also include Alejandro Escovedo and band and The Barbwire Project featuring- Eric Johnson, Malford Milligan, Steve Barber, Bill Maddox, Stephen Bruton, Chris Maresh, Rebecca Henderson and the Tosca Strings. The Glenn is located at 13101 Hwy 71 in West Austin by The Backyard. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased through Get Tix- www.gettix.net. A raffle will be held at each event featuring special autographed items. Also be on the lookout for surprise guest appearances. For details go to www.chriswhitley.com.

Ray Younkin was a special performer at Tim McGlashen’s benefit, and he also designed the beautiful poster for the show. His latest song “Blanket of Night” on his recent CD was nominated for song of the year at the Texas Music Awards. It was one of 5 songs nominated out of 15,000 considered. Voting ends Feb. 24th, so vote now! http://www.mytexasmusic.com/awards/2006nominees.html.



Saturday, Mar 4th, 2006

THE BLUES HOUND’S 4th ANNUAL SPRING HOWL

It’s time once again to get off the porch and run with the big dogs.  90.1 FM KPFT’s “Blues Hound” and “Baby Girl” (“Howlin’ the Blues”, Sundays 2-4 p.m.) have scheduled their 4th Annual Spring Howl for Sunday, April 2, 2006, from 2-8 p.m.  This year’s blues extravaganza will be held at Dan Electro’s Guitar Bar (1031 E. 24th Street, Houston, www.danelectrosguitarbar.com). 

Kicking off this year’s show in support of their soon-to-be released CD, “The Road”, will be Shannon & Lance G.  Local bluesman, Michael Heyman brings his new power trio, Roomful of Mirrors, up next for an explosive set. Austin’s Seth Walker follows with his infectious blend of down home blues roots music and will be featuring songs from his upcoming self-titled CD. 

The Brad Absher Band takes the stage next.  Brad, a former Tulsan who now resides in Houston, has been thrilling audiences all over with his unique soul drenched vocals and guitar prowess.  Look for him to perform many of the songs from his 2005 release “Gulf Coast Soul.”  Special guest, John Gaar from Austin, will join Brad for a guitar-slingin’, soulful-singin’, rockin’ blues set.  John’s CD, “Bittersweet Success,” received him honors as a top songwriter by Billboard Magazine.  Don’t miss these soon-to-be luminaries of the blues.

John Moschioni, aka “Johnny Boy”, a swingin’ daddy-o that everyone ought to know, headlines this year’s event.  Johnny’s quartet consists of Richard Cholokian on drums, Thomas Helton on upright bass, and guitarist extraordinaire Joel Foy, who has recorded with everybody from William Clarke to James Harmon. 

Raffles will be held throughout the day with loads of t-shirts, CDs, and other cool goodies for attendees.  A $15 donation will get you into this Pacifica benefit.  For more information on the event and 90.1 FM KPFT, log on to www.kpft.org or email “The Blues Hound” at blueshound@kpft.org.



Tuesday, Feb 28th, 2006

LOCAL HOUSTON BAND NEWS BITS

"After a much needed 4-month break from the scene SEVRIN is back and better than ever with the introduction of our new and phenomenal drummer "Matt Cayer" and new and amazing bassist "Dan Castaneda". We have quite a few shows lined up and with our first Houston show in over 5 months on - Saturday 04/01, in addition to our first appearance at the legendary Curtain Club in the Dallas Deep Ellum district on 04/29."

Luke from Redefining The Moment, the band from ex-members of Donora's Center, writes, "As you should recall, I wrote last time that Clint has chosen to leave Redefining the Moment in pursuit of other priorities. With his continued blessing, we have found the new addition to the group: a drummer named Adam Barton. It's quite unreal how things worked out so quickly with him, but he is everything we could hope for and then some. He brings a unique new style to RTM and we're very excited to see where things go from here."

Webmaster Ed from The HungerOnline.Com, "Last on the list of news is the hardest part for me to mention. For those of you who have not visited the website in the past week, Stephen Bogle has left the band. The following news was posted on the site in the news area: 'After 15 years Mr Stephen Bogle has left the band to pursue his own personal endeavors and see what the rest of the music world has to offer. I'm positive that his future holds nothing but the best that music has to offer. He is a great musician and an outstanding producer. He would never tell you but he is the best producer in town. Always modest about his own career he always chose to speak with his work. The Hunger will always love and appreciate his friendship, work ethic and loyalty to the band. Things will not be the same without him but life goes on. We will leave the email link to stepen's email up for a couple of weeks so you guys can send him any parting messages. Thanks!'"

Local worship band Not Afraid has two new songs up on their myspace page here: http://www.myspace.com/notafraid

Opie Hendrix finally got a new newsletter announcing that for a limited time two songs from the soon-to-be-released Chupacabra are available to download at www.myspace.com/opiehendrixandthetexastallboys. Join Opie's myspace friends...you'll be in good company. Speaking of good company, check out www.myspace.com/carrieannandtheapocalyptics (That's Opie's wife!)

Houston ex-pat Hadden Sayers (now residing in Ohio) is back in the studio, "Hello All, no dates are currently posted for the HSB as I am hard at work on the new Hadden Sayers Band CD! This CD...our 6th is truly a labor of love and I am enjoying dedicating all of my time to making the best music I'm capable of. I will update you from time to time on my progress via this list and the myspace site at www.myspace.com/haddensayersband "

Jordan from Prevail Within writes, "First things first, our full length album is still set to be released this April under our own Sindrome Records. We have a concept and album title but are waiting to release it with the cover art. We also are pleased to announce our team up with Mightier Than Sword Records out of NYC... we will be releasing a 7" under them this summer... www.myspace.com/mightierthansword We have a big show coming up in March in San Antonio on the 4th with Come Back Hailey and the 31st with the Casualties and The Unseen... Check out our website for more info... www.prevailwithin.com "

Paul Beebe starts another band..."READING DAYS is a new band featuring Paul Beebe on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Mark Riddell on bass, Matt Clark on lead guitar, and Jon Sanchez on the drums.  For the old Drifter fans, we play a few of those songs as well as some new ones. The debut performance is this Friday 3/4/06 at The Continental Club opening for Tody Castillo, a critically acclaimed local songwriter. We go on at ten, so I hope to see you there!"



Saturday, Feb 25th, 2006
HOUSTON OPEN MIC AWARDS 2006 Sunday, February 26, 2006 - 6:00 pm

The Houston Open Mic Awards are getting near. This night is honoring our Open Mic Family...all the performers (musically minded and spoken word) and non-performers (faithful clientele) who have supported our open mics and made each night so special at JP Hops House in 2005. This will be a Sunday-night extravaganza with decorations, food, music and presentation of the trophies. Eighteen awards will be handed out by the end of the night. These awards are not competitive but instead are meant to be fun (see the categories below)! If you played at our open mics in 2005, your name has been written on a star and placed on the stage. There are over 200 stars on the wall! We love you guys! We are looking forward to having a ball and sincerely hope you will make plans to join us for our 1st Annual Houston Open Mic Awards!

Open Mic Award Nominees "Golden Ear Award" - (biggest all around music fan) Larry Englebretson * Chris Schmidt * Cyd Wright

"He Thinks He Lives Here Award" (most faithful open mic bar regular, non performer) Terry Clarke * Bob Davis * Rob & Judy Mood JD Idaho

"Pied Piper Award" - (their own audience in tow) Jeff and Ben * Stan & Paul

"Can You Hear Me Now Award" - (poet award) AJ Grammar * Chris Schmidt * Beverly Shirkey Chris Stiteler * Alan Young

"Most Supportative Organization" Houston Association of Acoustic Musicians (HAAM) Houston Fort Bend Songwriters Association (HFBSA) Nashville Songwriters Association International - Houston Chapter (NSAI)

"Most Intriguing Thingamajig" - (most unusual/interesting instrument) Mike Darnell - Liberty Tree Guitar * Jim Kam - Chapman Stick Danny Jones - Dulicmer * Gary Taylor - Ukulele

"Supportive Back-Up Musician Award" (most supportive back-up musician, instrument or vocal) Otis Futhermucker * AJ Grammer * Tony Rose * TC Smythe * Roni Todd John Williams * Willie B

"Everybody Knows My Song Award" - (original or cover songs) Dan Ennis - "Herbie The Herbivore" Otis Futhermucker - "One leg to the east....." Bobby Mitchell - "Rump Wrangler" Larry Sepulvado - "I Must Have Been Drunk When I Said I'd Stop Drinking" Gary Taylor - "You Can't Be A Wimp And Live In Texas"

"Rib-Tickling Award" - (humorous songs) Russell Dodge * Stan Hatch & Paul McCann * Bobby Mitchell

"More Than A Hobby Award" (started with open mic to CD Released in 2005) Big Lizard Boys - "Pick Yourself Up" Mike Pope - "The Reason for Our Time" Kat Rose - "Power and Passion" Tom Tranchilla - "Sketches Of Life"

"The Good Hair Award" Danny Jones * Otis Futhermucker * TC Smythe

"Buzz Award" - (talk of the town) Ken Gaines * Ericka Luckett * Jen Rathbun * Smythe & Taylor * Mark Zeus

"Seldom Seen Award" - (only played once, leaving us wanting more) Dodd Eastham * The Fowler Brothers * Robert Frith * Ken Gaines * Brian Kalinec

Recipients of the following Awards will be announced at the Ceremony:

"Open Mic Is My Life Award" - (most times attended)
"Longest Journey Award" - (longest distance traveled)
"Open Mic Magic Award" - (most interesting combination of musicians)

There are 2 more awards which are not listed above that will be announced and presented at the party.

JP's Hops House
2317 S. Hwy 6
Houston, TX 77077
281-496-0623
Showtime @ 6:00 pm
No Cover


Thursday, Feb 16th, 2006

SOUTH BY DUE EAST 2006 FREE CONCERT - The Line-Up Grows

It's already the best line-up we've had, and there's still a dozen acts to be booked! Besides the artists already announced below, we've added some great music to our movie-making music festival in March (18th - 21st at Dan Electro's).

Check the new names on our roster -

Hamilton Loomis - next generation blues and soul
Fondue Monks - rock & roll
The Frauds (baltimore) - east coast garage
Little Brother Project - funk groove jams
Koo Rod - conscious rap
Burns Moore & The I & I Band - reggae
Sonny Black - hardcore undergound
Roz Zamorano - fusion bass master
IllSon / DJ Saba - groove hiphop
Joe Kowan - smart folk
Bigg Nay - street level
Damm Fool - intellectual gangster rock
Last Soul Descendants - darrens latest jams
Organ Failure - what?

These great artists join our already announced artists -

Orange Is In – Leesa’s other band
Erin Wright – jazz bass goddess
Chango Jackson – punk pop en espanol
Rusted Shut – post-industrial punk noise
Vibe Committee – groove jams
Mary Thomas – zydeco royalty
J.B. Money – psychedelic guitar master
The Mirrors (san francisco)
The Madisons – miss lizzie and the music boys
Opie Hendrix & The Texas Tallboys – rockin’ country
Q.U.E. – spiritual hiphop
Fahl & Folk – folk music
Guy Schwartz & The New Jack Hippies – bluesrock jam band

The atmosphere at SOUTH BY DUE EAST is one of community.. There is no cover charge. Donations towards the movie expenses are appreciated, and all are encouraged to purchase CD DVD compilations from previous festivals, as well as recorded product from all of the artists.

~ Marlo Blue & Guy Schwartz

SXDE at YahooGroups.Com



Thursday, Feb 16th, 2006

Blue October kicks off FOILED tour at Mardi Gras Galveston.

Blue October is heading back out on the road in support of the new album Foiled, due in stores March 14th. Click here to get full details on each show and to purchase tickets online.

Foiled Tour 2006
Feb 24 - Galveston, TX - Mardi Gras
Mar 22 - Little Rock, AR - Juanita's
Mar 23 - Tulsa, OK - The Hive
Mar 24 - Kansas City, KS - Beaumont
Mar 25 - St. Louis, MO - Ms. Nights
Mar 28 - Chicago, IL - Metro
Apr 01 - Omaha, NE - Sokol Hall
Apr 03 - Denver, CO - Bluebird



Monday, Feb 13th, 2006
Joey Gilmore Wins the IBC!

Houston welcomes this 2006 winner of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. This is a very prestigious international award that will lift the winning band to new heights in their career. Last year Joey Gilmore won the contest but was later eliminated on a technicality. This year he was was back representing South Florida Blues Society and ...HE DID IT AGAIN. Joey Gilmore and band took 1st place honors in the band division. For More info check out the Blues Foundation site Blues.org

Joey and his band will perform songs from his most recent CD titled"When the Ghosts of Mississippi meet the Gods of Africa" at Cosmos Cafe, as they finish up their most recent tour. Come out to hear some great blues and congratulate the KPFT DJ's on their recent win of the prestigious KBA award! For more info on Joey, go to www.joeygilmore.net.

Date: Thursday, February 19th
Time: 8-12
Location: COSMOS CAFE, 69 Heights Blvd. 713-802-2144


Monday, Feb 13th, 2006

~~February 18th, 2006~~

Underworld's 7th Annual My Bloody Valentine Gothic Beauty Pageant - Ms & Mr Spooky 2006

$200 Cash & Prizes for the Winners.
Theatrical Performance by: Dominion.
Upstairs: The Dead Bang.
Cover: $10Drink Specials all nightDoors @ 9PM

Underworld's Traditional Vendors:

Photographic Tendencies, Artwithlatex: Wearable Latex Art! Madam Fatima Psychic: Tarot and Palmist and her protege' Faery Wing: reader of fairy cards. Sponsored by Tre' Ridings, Siren Summer and ArtWithLatex.

Judges:

Anita Star(Ms. Spooky 2005): Anita is a model and has worked with musicians Kid Rock, Supavillain, and Psychonaut75. This dark vixen has done videos with Danny Stygion as seen in the "Dominator" video. She was also voted "Miss Fetish Ball" 2004. http://anitastar.com

Breye 7x (Provision): Having been a promoter and DJ in Houston since 1996 and a member of Industrial/EBM/Synth acts - UNI, Bamboo Crisis, & Provision; Breye 7x is no stranger to the Houston Scene. His former Houston nightclub "The Cellar" spawned some of Houston's finest scene DJ's including, Underworld's Pthalo and Austin; and Bone Church's DJ Question? His own unique fashion style, self described as "New Romantic Industrialist," won him Runner Up at the 6th Annual My Bloody Valentine Gothic Beauty Pageant. http://provision-musik.net

Siren Summer: Is a professional model and make-up artist residing in Austin, Texas. With 10 years experience as a model she has worked with over 50 photographers. Her image has been featured in many magazines as well as concert/clubposters, CD covers and comic book art. On-line she is well known as an alternative model among the Gothic community and has worked with designers and photographers from all over the world. She is also the owner and designer of subkult klothing http://www.typografix.com/skk/ gaining rave reviews in the Austin Texas fashion community. In her spare time she is a cable TV host for the music based Austin access show Rawtime, (http://www.rawtime.com/rawtime-welcome.htm) interviewing such bands as VNV Nation and The Super Suckers.

Jason F.(Mr. Spooky 2005): A familiar face in the Houston Club Scene and part of the DareWare Production Team. He has worked with Mistress Persephone and many other performers in the Houston Fetish Scene.

Xavier Hate (formerly of Malign): Along with being a founding member of the SF band Malign that producedhits such as Skin and Lye, he was one of the former co-owners of the club House Of Usher in SF. Now residing in Texas with his wife Shawni, also a former co-owner of House of Usher, they will be working with The Dead Bang crew @ Underworld.

3rd Female Judge: Will be picked randomly from the audience by a ticket drawing at 10:30pm. So get there early and get your ticket at the Front Door to enter to be a Judge.

Judging:

This year the Judges will pick 4 Females and 4 Males right on the stage. There will be no scoring this year. Then the Audience will select the Winners by Audience Response.

To Enter, email: gothicbeautypageant@hotmail.com

Come out and join us in celebrating our 7th Annual Pageant. We will have several Photographers out and about taking pictures as well as ENVY Magazine http://www.envyhouston.com

http://underworldnightclub.com

http://numbersnightclub.com



Monday, Feb 13th, 2006

Kenny Love's "Vampire Love" Single

HOUSTON, Texas - - February, 8, 2006 - - In a sudden mid-life crisis occurring overnight, new Houston-based Eartastic Records recording artist Kenny Love awoke in a cold sweat and experienced multiple heaves while spouting insane rhetoric at the top of his lungs. "The 50's are coming!  The 50's are coming!" Love continued to chant.

As his horrid expression was much like Dr. Simon Van Gelder's, which can be seen as a visibly shaken man at http://www.MuBiz.com/morganwoodward.jpg our label can only conclude that this sudden bout of insanity is a direct result of Love having turned 48 years old last month, and now has a deep morbid fear of turning 50 in a couple of years.  Ironically, both Van Gelder and Love hail from the state of Texas.  :-(

After awakening on last evening, Love burst into the production studio facility of Eartastic Records at approximately 8:07 p.m.,locking the doors behind him, and only finally emerging at 5:30 a.m. this morning with a recording completely unlike hispersona, a sample which can be heard on the MySpace.com site at http://www.myspace.com/klvl Likewise, in adding fuel to the proverbial fire, he then uploaded a sample of this sordid and desperate attempt at a "comeback"music career to his own MuBiz.com site at http://www.MuBiz.com/VampLove.html for which we apologize to anyone in advance who, unfortunately, listens to it.

We have not, yet, determined if we shall retain him as an artist on our label, particularly, due to his current health condition, obvious negative mental state of being and, most importantly, possible label embarrassment, but we are *definitely* continuing his medical treatment and supervision with the noted and renowned Dr. Russ Hamlisch, who believes that Love's condition is, primarily, a combined result of stress, overly high cholesterol, and having consumed far too many enchiladas while watching last Sunday's Super Bowl game (please don't ask!).

Signed,

Dwayne Michaels, Publicist
Eartastic Records
Houston, Texas

cc: Clyde Toval, President
bcc: Janet Forsythe, Internal Label Psychiatrist

Disclaimer: Eartastic Records accepts no responsibility in
and is held harmless from any future incident...legal, social
or otherwise, arising and resulting from the distribution of
this material.



Thursday, Feb 9th, 2006
CACTUS MUSIC & VIDEO TO CLOSE

Cactus Music & Video, one of Houston's best-loved and best-stocked independent music retailers, will close on March 31.

General manager Quinn Bishop announced the closing in a letter today.

Several reasons for the closing were cited. On the business side, Bishop's letter mentioned industry-wide problems that have plagued the music business: high list prices and sluggish CD sales due to downloading, file-sharing and burning; and competition from larger retailers like Best Buy, which can afford to sell CDs as a loss-leader. Cactus' video-rental service also experienced lagging business as well.

Another cause is the retirement of Bud and Don Daily, who owned the store. The Daily brothers' father H.W. "Pappy" Daily was a legendary figure in Texas and Houston music. He got his music biz start in jukebox distribution in the 1930s and opened one of the first record retail outlets in the region.

The elder Daily chased other music-related pursuits and sold Cactus to his sons in 1959.

Cactus grew into a small retail chain, though, as Bishop mentioned in his letter, it endured difficult times including flooding during Tropical Storm Allison. Through it all, it remained a respected and well-run indie, with knowledgable staff and diverse stock that always had room for local talent.

"We appreciate your understanding for how difficult it can be for an independent music store," Bishop wrote. "Thank you for looking out for us and for your efforts which established us as the "go-to" store in the Houston market."

--from chron.com


Thursday, Feb 9th, 2006
2005 INTERNATIONAL SONGWRITING COMPETITION FINALISTS ANNOUNCED -
LISTEN AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE SONG

For Immediate Release, February 2, 2006...The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is pleased to announce its 2005 finalists. These finalists were selected out of almost 15,000 entries from 80 countries and represent the top 1.4% of all entries submitted. For a complete list of 2005 ISC finalists, please visit:
http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/finalists2005.htm.

The finalists' songs are currently in the judges' hands, and winners will be announced in March, 2006 when the ISC judges have made their decision. ISC's judges include the presidents of ten record labels and esteemed artists such as Loretta Lynn, Sonny Rollins, Tom Waits, Amy Ray (Indigo Girls), Steve Vai, Darryl McDaniels (RUN DMC) and many more. Over $150,000 in cash and merchandise will be awarded to 50 winners, including the top honors of ISC 2005 Overall Grand Prize winner.

The ISC Grand Prize package is carefully put together to benefit the winning songwriter and maximize his or her songwriting career, including: $10,000 cash (US); a college radio promotion campaign; legal services from a music attorney; a CD Duplication Package; premium recording software and hardware; music and recording equipment; and much more.

The 2005 ISC finalists' songs are also listed online for the 2005 People's Voice - an online voting contest that allows the public to listen to and vote for their favorite ISC finalist. The winner of the People's Voice is selected solely by public vote and is in addition to, and completely separate from, the regular winners who will be selected by the prestigious ISC judging panel. Visit http://www.songwritingcompetition.com/pvwelcome_2005.htm to listen to the 2005 ISC finalists' songs and cast your vote!

Judges for the 2005 competition include: Tom Waits; Loretta Lynn; Sonny Rollins; John Scofield; Steve Vai; Macy Gray; Joss Stone; MercyMe; Amy Ray (Indigo Girls); Darryl McDaniels (Run D.M.C.); LeAnn Rimes; Isaac Brock (Modest Mouse); Jeff Stinco (Simple Plan); BeBe Winans; Peter Hook (New Order); Benji Madden (Good Charlotte); Charlie Musselwhite; The Donnas; Monte Lipman (President, Universal Records); Keith Wozencroft (President, Capitol Music UK); Glen Barros (CEO/President, Concord Records); Bruce Iglauer (Founder/President, Alligator Records); Cameron Strang (President, New West Records); Dan Storper (President, Putumayo World Music); Michael McDonald (President, ATO Records); Alexandra Patsavas (Owner, The Chop Shop Music Supervision - credits include The OC, Grey's Anatomy, Without A Trace, Carnivale, Rescue Me ); Darrale Jones (VP A&R Urban, Atlantic Records); Chris Parr (VP Music Programming & Talent Relations, CMT); Barbara Sedun (VP Creative, EMI Music Publishing Canada); Tara Griggs-Magee (Executive VP of Gospel/Urban Music, Sony Records); Leib Ostrow (CEO, Music For Little People), Thomas Brooman (Co-Founder/Artistic Director, WOMAD); Cory Robbins (Founder/President, Robbins Entertainment); Emily Wittmann (Vice-President, Nick Records); Patrick Moxey (President, Ultra Records/You Records/Sequence Records/Escondida Music/Empire Mgmt.) and Danny Epstein (Music Supervisor, Sesame Street/Sesame Workshop).

2005 Sponsors include: Epiphone, ASCAP, Berklee College Of Music, L.R. Baggs, Disc Makers, Alphabet Arm Design, FYE, Cakewalk, Fishman Tranducers, ADK Microphones, Moog Music, Sam Ash Music Stores, Sibelius, Planetary Group, Hear Technologies, Music Registry, Mediaguide, ArtistMonitor, Onlinegigs.com, Musician's Atlas, Sonicbids and Performer.com.

--
International Songwriting Competition
211 Seventh Avenue North, Suite LL-20
Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: 615.251.4441
Fax: 615.251.4442
songwritingcompetition.com


Tuesday, Jan 31st, 2006

National and Local Artists to Honor Musical Legend, Chris Whitley.

Two all-star concerts in Houston and Austin benefiting the Whitley estate. Saturday, March 4, 2006 – The Glenn in Austin, Texas and Sunday, March 5, 2006 – Warehouse Live in Houston, Texas

Legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist, 45 year old, Chris Whitley died of lung cancer on November 20 th at a friend's home near Houston. Chris leaves behind a younger brother Dan and daughter, Trixie. Two tribute concerts for Whitley will take place in Austin and Houston. Proceeds will in part benefit a trust fund for Trixie Whitley. “My brother was all about life and living, and we want anybody who felt touched by him or his music to come and be welcome,” says Dan Whitley.

A man of rare poetic honesty, Chris Whitley maintained a resolute musical integrity throughout his career. His 12 albums, ranging from raw-boned folk-rock to lush electro-blues, had the thread of intense emotion and constant invention running through them.

Chris Whitley's debut LP, Living With the Law , was released by Columbia Records in 1991 and was received with critical acclaim. Chris ’ Soft Dangerous Shores, (Messenger) came out in July 2005. Both discs now seem like spiritual/aesthetic book-ends, mixing roots-rock grit with heat-haze atmospherics. Chris Whitley ’s final recording, Reiter In, will be released in Europe on February 28 th (Downtown) and in North America on March 28 th (Red Parlor).

In the Houston area, an incredible night of music will take place at Warehouse Live on Sunday, March 5. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 7:30 p.m. Current artists to perform include ShawnColvin, CharlieSexton, VernonReid, DJ Logic, DougPinnick, the Sonnier Brothers, the DanWhitleyBand ,JohnEgan, ArthurYoria and NDUGU. Warehouse Live is located at 813 St. Emmanual Street, Houston, Texas. Advance tickets are $20 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster- www.ticketmaster.com.

In Austin, the show will be held at The Glenn on Saturday, March 4, with the same lineup, but will also include Eric Johnson, Malford Milligan, Steve Barber, Bill Maddox, the Tosca Girls string ensemble and more. The Glenn is located at 13101 Hwy 71 in West Austin by The Backyard. Tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased through Get Tix- www.gettix.net

A raffle will be held at each event featuring special autographed items. Also be on the lookout for surprise guest appearances. All proceeds go to cover medical expenses for Chris’s care and to establish a Trust Fund for his daughter, Trixie Whitley.

A special thank you to The Raven Grill for their generous donations toward making this show happen. For more information, contact Corinne Tames at (713) 582-0175 or ctames@houston.rr.com. Also check out www.chriswhitley.com.



Tuesday, Jan 31st, 2006

“THE FASTEST RISING INDEPENDENT ARTIST IN AMERICA,” BRANDON STANLEY, COMING TO HOUSTON !

Brandon Stanley, heralded as one of the “fastest rising independent artists in America”, a national Top 40 charting artist, and Texas native is coming to perform in concert at Meridianon Monday, February 20th!

Touring with superstars such as BETTER THAN EZRA, and steadily gaining airplay and chart momentum throughout the South and beyond with his radio single “If I Fall”, Brandon has an ever-expanding fan-base rarely paralleled in the independent artist community. Brandon’s appeal stretches to young and old alike as well as to industry professionals. Recently, Brandon was nominated for a Houston Press Music Award for “Best Pop/Rock” band/artist and headlined the Awards Show in Houston, TX on Sunday, July 24 th.

www.brandonstanleymusic.com



Wednesday, Jan 25th, 2006

New Compilation For Perris Records Includes Houston Band Straight Fork

Perris Records To Issue Hollywood Hairspray Vol. 5; Tracklisting Revealed Hollywood Hairspray is back for another round!

Vol. 5 features great Hard Rock/Sleaze/Glam bands from around the globe. The collection also features the debut solo release from ANIMAL/ZAN CLAN guitarist Chris Laney, Cory Clarke (WARRIOR SOUL/SPACE AGE PLAYBOYS) new band DIRTY RIG and new tracks from a slew of newcomers on the rock scene.

Vol. 5 will be sure to please fans of previous Hollywood Hairspray releases. Hollywood Hairspray Vol. 5 will be released January 31st, 2006. Go to www.perrisrecords.com for more info.

The complete tracklisting is as follows: CHRIS LANEY - ‘Instinct Animal’, HOLLYWOOD - ‘Hearts On Fire’, DIRTY RIG - ‘Suck It’, RADIO VIPERS - ‘Pusher’, BASTARDZ - ‘Pills’, THE DEADTHINGS - ‘Forever Damned’, SWEET CHEATER - ‘Dancin On My Grave’, GUNSHY - ‘Hold On To Your Dreams Tonight’, ON PAROLE - ‘Midnight In Her Eyes’, JACK VIPER - ‘Merry Go Around’, ALTER EGO X - ‘Devil Woman’, SILVER DIRT - ‘Go! She Said’, BACKSEAT SUPERSTARS - ‘Love Story’, SNOW - ‘Razorblade Kiss’, NICE ‘N’ SLEEZY - ‘Rock 'N' Roll Addiction’, STRAIGHT FORK - ‘Women, Whiskey, Weed & Lies.’



Wednesday, Jan 25th, 2006

Veteran promoters go live with new venue

Jennifer Dawson Houston Business Journal

An 80-year-old warehouse tucked away in an industrial area east of downtown is being transformed into Houston's newest live music venue.

Warehouse Live is a project of Louis Messina and Allen Becker, co-founders of the original Pace Concerts. Now the veteran concert promoters are teaming up with one of their protégés and two of their sons in a new production by the younger generation.

Read the rest of this article at the Houston Business Journal



Tuesday, Jan 24th, 2006

AZRAEL'S BANE TO PERFORM IN NYC FOR CHAVIS RECORDS PRESENTS STAGE RAGE 2006

Stage Rage 2006; January 27th, 2006 - CBGB's New York City.
Line Up: Azrael's Bane, Python, Fighting Zero, The Rosary w / Special Guest.

Houston metal rockers Azrael's Bane will be performing at the legendary dive CBGB's in New York City this week as a part of Chavis Records Stage Rage 2006.

The Stage Rage concept was developed by a few associated with Chavis Records. The original event for this night was something else altogether and has since fell through. Because plans were in motion and itineraries booked, we thought we should somehow salvage the night and make the best of it.

This night will be the pilot introduction of Stage Rage 2006, a little sooner than we planned this year but what the hell? The idea is to bring some of the same concepts of many of the European events held throughout the year to the US East Coast. Longshot? Maybe. We hope to grow the event. We've been in contact with a few name bands and key players that want to participate. We would like build this event and add sponsorship and get other industry people involved to help us grow this and make it successful.

Get in touch with us if you would like to be involved: stagerage@chavisrecords.net.



Friday, Jan 20th, 2006

HOUSTON MUSICIAN BENNY VALERIO DIES

We are very saddened to announce the death of Benny Valerio on January 11, 2006 due to complications from liver cancer and kidney failure. Benny was loved by so many of us and will be forever missed, but he will live on in our hearts and through his music.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, January 20, 2006 at 1:30 pm at the

Houston National Cemetery Chapel (formerly Veterans Memorial Cemetery)
10410 Veterans Memorial Dr.
Houston, TX
281-447-8686

~Valerio Fan



Wednesday, Jan 18th, 2006

2006 TEXAS MUSIC EVENTS CALENDAR NOW AVAILABLE

The 2006 edition of the Texas Music Events Calendar is now available. It lists 583 annual events in Texas showcasing live music.

From the South Texas Polka and Sausage Festival in Hallettsville to the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio to the huge South by Southwest Conference in Austin to the Greater Southwest Music Festival in Amarillo, Texas music means great outdoor and indoor annual events that reflect our state's musical and cultural diversity. Last year, the combined budgets for these events totaled more than $66 million, with a combined attendance of nearly 23 million people.

View the calendar online at: http://www.EnjoyTexasMusic.com

Request a copy of the TMEC in word or PDF form by emailing the Texas Music Office at: music@governor.state.tx.us

To request a printed copy, send a check or money order for $2 to: Texas Music Office P.O. Box 13246, Austin, TX 78711.

The Texas Music Office, a program in the Office of Governor Rick Perry, opened in January 1990 to serve as the information clearinghouse and promotion office for the Texas music industry.

Casey Monahan, Stephen Ray and Andrew Leeper
TEXAS MUSIC OFFICE
Office of the Governor
P.O. Box 13246, Austin, TX 78711-3246
512.463.6666 / fax 512.463.4114
music@governor.state.tx.us
http://www.governor.state.tx.us/music
http://www.EnjoyTexasMusic.com
**You Can't Hear American Music Without Hearing Texas**



Monday, Jan 16th, 2006

METALLICA, KORN, SLAYER, SLIPKNOT Members Join Forces For DIMEBAG DARRELL ART TRIBUTE

Some of the biggest names in hard rock — including members of such acts as METALLICA, KORN, LINKIN PARK, SLIPKNOT, MUDVAYNE, ROB ZOMBIE, DISTURBED — have joined forces for an amazing art exhibit in remembrance of late PANTERA/DAMAGEPLAN guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and to support music education.

Set to debut at Winter NAMM in Anaheim, California, "Six-String Masterpieces: The Dimebag Darrell Art Tribute" will include the following:

* A collection of 50 guitars, hand-painted by world-famous rock stars and internationally known modern artists.

* A charitable art auction to benefit a foundation dedicated to music, education and improving the lives of today’s youth.

* A travelling entertainment attraction hitting major U.S. markets in 2006.

* A highly-publicized tour that will feature an art opening party and VIP reception in each city attended by participating artists, press, celebrities and entertainment industry personel.

This exhibit promises to be of massive popular appeal, as well as a great story for the music, art and mainstream media. Platinum-selling artists such as Rob Zombie, Moby, Billy Corgan, KORN, Dave Navarro, VAN HALEN, Kirk Hammett of METALLICA, Dave Grohl of FOO FIGHTERS and NIRVANA and SUM 41 have already signed on and the list of impressive artists is growing.

"Six-String Masterpieces: The Dimebag Darrell Art Tribute" will debut at Winter NAMM in Anaheim, California before heading off on tour to major U.S. markets. The guitars will be auctioned off with proceeds going to a foundation dedicated to furthering music education.

List of participating artists:

Aaron Cain (Aaron Cain Tattoo)
Alexi Laiho (CHILDREN OF BODOM)
Billy Corgan (SMASHING PUMPKINS)
Bob Tyrrell
Bob Zilla (DAMAGEPLAN)
Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX)
Chester Bennington (LINKIN PARK)
Dan Donegan (DISTURBED)
Dave Grohl (FOO FIGHTERS, NIRVANA)
Dave Navarro (JANE'S ADDICTION)
David Stoupakis
DEFTONES
Derek Hess (Derek Hess Studios)
Filip Leu (Leu Family Iron)
Gill Montie
Greg Tribbett (MUDVAYNE)
Guy Aitchison (Hyperspace Studios)
Hank Williams III
Jack Rudy
James Hetfield (METALLICA)
Jason D' Aquino (Blue Moon Tattoo)
Jerry Cantrell (ALICE IN CHAINS)
Jim Root (SLIPKNOT)
Joe Capobianco (Hope Gallery)
Joe Satriani
Jonathan Davis (KORN)
Kelly Clarkson
Kerry King (SLAYER)
Kirk Hammett (METALLICA)
Marilyn Manson
Mark Mothersbaugh (DEVO, MUTATO MUZAKO)
Michael Anthony (VAN HALEN)
Mick Thompson (SLIPKNOT)
Mike Shinoda (LINKIN PARK)
Moby
Munky (KORN)
Oderus Urungus (GWAR)
OTEP
Paul Booth (Last Rites Tattoo)
Rob Zombie
Ron English (Popaganda Art Studio)
Ryan McGinness
Sammy Hagar
Sas Christian (Hotbox Designs)
Shannon Larkin (GODSMACK)
Shawn Crahan (SLIPKNOT)
Steve Stevens (BILLY IDOL BAND)
Sully Erna (GODSMACK)
SUM 41
Ted Nugent
Tom Morello (AUDIOSLAVE, RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE)
Tommy Lee (MÖTLEY CRÜE)
Willie Adler (LAMB OF GOD)

For more information, click here.



Monday, Jan 16th, 2006

KING'S X - New Audio Interview With JERRY GASKILL Posted Online

Chris Czynszak of NashvilleRock.net conducted an interview with KING'S X drummer Jerry Gaskill before the group's performance at Nashville's The Exit/In on December 14, 2005. Listen to the 11-minute chat at this location. KING'S X are continuing to tour in support of their latest album, "Ogre Tones", which was released in September via InsideOut Music. The band's first release for the label was produced by Michael Wagener (METALLICA, ALICE COOPER, QUEEN) and is receiving rave reviews from fans and critics for its innovative sound and musical intricacies.



Monday, Jan 16th, 2006

INDEPENDENT RECORD STORE SOUND EXCHANGE BURGLARIZED.

From: www.superunison.com

That's right folks. Sound Exchange, Houston's BEST (and truly independent) record store, was burglarized on Monday morning around 1am. You read that right...

Among missing items from the store were the remaining tickets for of Montreal, Explosions In The Sky, Spoon, and Smoking Popes.

Here's where you come in...

If ANYONE tries to sell you one or any number of tickets for these shows, we URGE you to:

1. NOT BUY THEM, obviously. More tickets for of Montreal, Spoon, and Smoking Popes will be taken up to Sound Exchange tomorrow morning for sale.

2. PLEASE come forward, whether it be anonymously or forthright, with information on who is trying to pawn off the stolen goods. Both Sound Exchange and Super Unison would be very interested to find out who's got the goods.

superunison@superunison.com or 713.666.5555 (Sound Exchange)

Chances are, someone on this mailing list will have some sort of insight... seeing as how the burglars opted to leave tickets for Anti-Flag and Mogwai behind. Oh, you indie rock thugs are so picky these days, aren't you?

Do Sound Exchange, and yourself a favor this week and go buy some records from our dear friends at 1846 Richmond.

Sound Exchange will pay $500.00 cash to any person with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the thief/thieves who broke into their store at approximately 1am the morning of Jan 16th. That's right friends, 500 clams.

Contact them via e-mail (store@soundexchangehouston.com) or by phone at 713.666.5555. Payment on conviction.

Thanks for reading,
Super Unison



Monday, Jan 9th, 2006

Houston Blues Society Fundraiser at Preston Warehouse

Sunday, January 15th, 2006 Join us for a sensory feast! Original art, cutting edge Art Cars, a delectable buffet, libations and Live Blues! In alliance with Preston Warehouse Artist Co-op, the Houston Blues Society will host a fundraiser to send our regional "International Blues Challenge" winners to Memphis in January 2006, to compete in the largest gathering of Blues artists in the history of the world! In addition, HBS will honor listener supported KPFT 90.1 FM for winning the 2006 "Keeping the Blues Alive" award for Best Blues Programming on Public Radio.

The Blues Foundation will present this award during the International Blues Challenge weekend! Doors open at 2:00pm - Music from 3:00 'til 7:00 Music provided by our regional IBC winners: Jeremiah Johnson & Ray Griffith (solo/duo act) & Steve Krase and the In Crowd (band act) Blues jam featuring guest artists to follow! Beer courtesy of Saint Arnold's Brewery & catering from Mikonos Greek Restaurant $10 donation or free entry with purchase of HBS membership

Location: 3209 Preston Street, Houston TX 77003



Monday, Jan 9th, 2006
ASTRA HEIGHTS benefit concert at KPFT

Rhonda Garner here from KPFT's music program RadioACTIVE. Me and my partner co-host, Phi Schawe, are organizing a benefit concert this year to help support the second annual KPFT Summer Youth Program.

We have lined up a couple of great musical guests, including Houston's own (but soon to be famous) ASTRA HEIGHTS. They are basically a rock band, but like most good bands these days, their sound is their own and not genre specific. The band recently scored a recording deal with major label heavy, Universal. This will be their last gig in Houston before they head East to become Rock Stars!

The other guest is the amazing urban folkstress, Suzanna Choffel from Austin Texas. In 2003 she won and international songwriting contest and later received an honorable mention in The John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Seriously, her voice, especially live, is something to behold. This girl is gonna go some where soon. It's no wonder that she is a vocal instructor at The Austin School of Music. Seriously, when we had this unknown young woman in the KPFT studios, the phone rang off the wall, people wanting to know who she was and where they could see her. She is truly great.

This is a benefit event and a donation of $10 per guest is requested. To make your donation in advance, go to http://houston.kpft.org/ Proceeds will benefit KPFT.

For more info call 713.526.4000 or email Rhonda at Msrhondagarner@aol.com.

Hope to see you there,
Rhonda


Monday, Jan 9th, 2006

Attention: ALL HOUSTON, DALLAS, SAN ANTONIO AND AUSTIN BANDS

Most of you at one time or another have played a benefit for the Muscular Dystrophy Association called SPENCEFEST. I am very grateful for your participation!  Basically this open letter is a “call to arms,”SPENCEFEST will cease to exist after February 10th and 11th

I you haven’t already guessed I have a plan to present one last show to the Houston area. This will occur at the 19th Hole in The Woodlands on February 10th & 11th .  This show, originally scheduled for November of this year, had to be postponed, mainly due to the effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and the numerous benefits that you all were playing in support of the relief efforts.  I applaud you for those efforts!!!

When I initially started SPENCEFEST, I had grand intentions, I wanted to go out and raise as much money as possible for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) research.  My goal at the first show was to make a $10,000 donation to the MDA.  It has taken just over six years to attain that goal with monies raised being approximately a little over $12,000.

Basically the purpose for this letter is that I need to call upon you for help, one more time for this last show.  Weather permitting we will be operating with a two stages.

PLEASE CONTACT MIKE PRUNEDA  OR MYSELF ASAP TO ASSURE YOUR PARTICIPATION!!!

Sincerely,
Spence Gilmore
Founder of SPENCEFEST

Contact Spence: spencefest@hotmail.com
Contact Mike: mikepruneda@aol.com



Friday, Jan 6th, 2006
In Memory of Barry Cowsill

On January 4, 2006 the search for Barry came to an end. On that day, The Cowsills received a phone call that informed them that Barry's body had been identified. The Cowsills are forever grateful to everyone who helped in any way for the search for Barry. Please take a moment to Sign our, Memorial Book for Barry and share your thoughts and/or memories of Barry. Your thoughts, condolences and memories are truly appreciated.


Thursday, Jan 5th, 2006
Southern Backtones Completes Highly Anticipated Album At SugarHill

(HOUSTON, TEXAS) - January 3rd, 2006 - Indie/Rock band The Southern Backtones, are creating a buzz with the completion of their long awaited self-titled album.

Produced by renowned producer Dan Workman and engineered/mixed by SugarHill's Senior Engineer Steve Christensen; The Southern Backtones tracked and mixed 13 songs at SugarHill Recording Studios throughout 2005, in studios A,B and C. The songs were tracked to 2" analog tape and were then transferred to Protools and mixed through a Neotek Elite console.

Workman has already anointed the effort in a recent interview, "Hands down, this is the most satisfying musical project that I have ever done." The album is currently being mastered by Jeff Lipton (Flaming Lips, The Magnetic Fields, Meat Puppets) at Peerless Mastering.

The year 2005 has been quite a whirlwind for the band; receiving plenty of industry praise for their 2005 EP release, a nomination by Houston's alternative rock station The Buzz/94.5FM for Best Indie/Rock band, in addition to gaining attention on college radio airwaves throughout the U.S. and Canada.

The Southern Backtones also featured two songs: Everything and Forever in the indie film "Drop Dead Sexy" soundtrack, starring Jason Lee and Crispin Glover.

Release dates for the album are still unconfirmed, however they will be supporting the new album with a release party and select live shows in Houston and surrounding areas.

For more information on The Southern Backtones, visit: www.southernbacktones.com For more on SugarHill Recording Studios, visit: www.sugarhillstudios.com


Wednesday, Jan 4th, 2006
GoGirlsMusic.com Turns 10 Years Old, Celebrates With Music Events All Year Long   

Houston, TX.In 1996, Madalyn Sklar had a vision of bringing together female musical artists around the country.  Ten years later that vision, GoGirlsMusic.com, has grown beyond her wildest dreams.  Sklar's dedication to female musicians has propelled GoGirlsMusic.com into the oldest and largest online community of independent women musicians.   

Since its inception, GoGirlsMusic.com has become a welcome destination for women in music, offering them many opportunities for showcasing their talents, networking with industry insiders and educating themselves at GoGirls sponsored events and workshops.   

In the last six years, Sklar has raised awareness for the community by producing the GoGirlsMusicFest, Invasion of the GoGirls, Battle of the GoGirls and showcases at various music conferences.  In addition, she has spearheaded over 100 benefit shows for numerous organizations including The Lynne Cohen Foundation for Ovarian Cancer Research, MusiCares, American Liver Foundation, Rock 'n' Roll Camp for Girls and more. She has also served on music panels at 2NMC, Dewey Beach, Dfest, DIY Convention, Invasion of the GoGirls @ SXSW, Millennium Music Conference, NEMO, Rockrgrl and South Park Music Festival.   

"My mission from the start has been to promote, support and empower indie artists," says Sklar.  "I love what I do! It's extremely rewarding work for me."   

2006 is destined to be another exciting year for GoGirlsMusic.com. Preparations are underway for the 6th Annual "Invasion of the GoGirls" @ SXSW in Austin, Texas.  In addition to showcasing great emerging talent it will feature headliner Sarah Bettens of K's Choice.  

For more information and updates, please visit: www.gogirlsmusic.com


Thursday, Dec 22nd, 2005
MAINES, HENDRIX, WILKINS & MARTINDALE ADDED TO SEMINAR

Legendary Texas songwriters join music-marketing experts at the annual "I've Made a Record.Now What?" seminar.

A newly announced panel at the seminar features a discussion by songwriters and producers on how to take a song from idea to recording. Participating will be Lloyd Maines, producer of many Texas CDs including those by Pat Green, Cory Morrow and the Dixie Chicks; Matt Martindale, lead singer and songwriter of the band Cooder Graw; Terri Hendrix, singer-songwriter; and Walt Wilkins, known as a writer, co-writer and producer.

Another session just announced includes music-marketing specialists who share information on how to get music to the audience, via live performance or recorded.

The session features Clay Brooks, president of Ignition Records who brings a background as marketing director for a Fortune 200 company to the music industry; Chris Thomas, president of Palo Duro Records, whose independent venture includes music from Luckenbach, Texas; and John Owens, President of Center Stage Booking, who describes how venues choose the acts they present.

The newly announced panels join keynote speaker Ray Wylie Hubbard at the music industry seminar, now in its fifth year.

Other seminar sessions previously announced include presentations and discussions by these music industry leaders from Texas:

Gerrie McDowell, president of Gerrie-co Marketing who has promoted the careers of Garth Brooks, Lyle Lovett and many others.

Judy Hubbard, who manages Ray Wylie Hubbard's career, discusses the unique needs of the creative artist in the relationship with the business world.

A session about getting songs on Texas radio features the radio programmers themselves. Pam Shane, Country Music Analyst for Shane Media, moderates with Ken Murray of KTTX, Brenham-Bryan-College Station; Rick Star of Texas Rebel Radio, Fredericksburg; and Chance Cody of KMKT, Denison.

Presenting sponsor for this year's seminar is Curb/Asylum Records of Nashville.

The fifth "I've Made a Record.Now What?" Seminar is 9:00 AM till 5:30 PM, Wednesday, February 1, at the Norris Conference Center, 9990 Richmond Avenue on Houston's west side, a location convenient to hotels, restaurants, and to Beltway 8, the Sam Houston Tollway.

Tuition is $99.00 before January 9, 2006, $129.00 thereafter.

Contact the seminar office at 713-952-9221, email katie@shanemedia.com or click www.TexasMusicChart.com .


Tuesday, Nov 29th, 2005

HBC FEST 05 HOSTS TOYS FOR TOTS DRIVE

The Houston music scene bands together on December 2nd and 3rd to celebrate Houston's second HBC Fest and to host an official Toys for Tots drive, just in time for Christmas.

The Houston Band Coalition is a growing organization of local Houston and regional bands, fans and music professionals who have banded together with the collective goal of advancing the state of the musical arts of Houston, Texas by supporting independent musicians.

The first HBC Fest was one year ago at an underground venue called the Cryolab featuring nine local bands. HBC FEST 05 will take place at Fitzgerald's, located at 2706 Washington Avenue, in Houston from 8pm – 2am each night. Rocking both the upstairs and downstairs stages, this long awaited event features twenty of Houston's prominent local artists, many of which have been featured on Houston's own TEXAS BUZZ show with Zakk United on the BUZZ 94.5FM and Wendy Miller's "The Hard Show" on ROCK 103.7FM. In addition, several were nominated and won their respective music category at the 2005 Houston Press Music Awards.

The Houston Band Coalition is even more pleased to announce that this year, the HBC FEST will also be a major US Marine Corps TOYS FOR TOTS drive location as part of the caring and giving Houston Community. There will be US Marines on hand both nights to fulfill the needs of thousands of children all over the country who might not have a Christmas without them. Please support their efforts by bringing a new unwrapped toy for a child.

"With all of the attention to the displaced residents that we've seen over the last few months due to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the HBC wants to make sure that we don't forget all the children out there that are right here in Houston," said Jay Humphrey, PR Director for the HBC. "We decided to bring in the United States Marines to help us to make Christmas happier for as many children as we possibly can."

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has a mission to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. Their primary goal is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.

Fitzgerald's, a nationally recognized live music venue since 1977, is a multilevel, multi room venue that has housed legends from B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Blink 182, Dennis Miller, Jay Leno, Koko Taylor, James Brown and Etta James to artists at their up and coming stages like R.E.M. and Soundgarden. Fitzgerald's was built over 90 years ago for music and music will always have a home here.

Tickets to this event may be purchased through the HBC's website, www.hbclive.com. Admission is $10 each night or $15 for both.



Monday, Nov 28th, 2005

Wish You Were Here: A Tribute to Dimebag Darrell Abbott

On Dec. 8, 2004, Texas musician "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott was assassinated by a crazed fan while performing onstage with his band Damage Plan in Columbus, Ohio.

On Saturday, Dec. 10th, 2005 – 367 days after Dimebag's murder – Houston's Metal Community will come together to celebrate the life and the music of the man that had such a tremendous influence on their lives as well as their music. “Wish You Were Here: A Tribute to Dimebag Darrell Abbott” will bring together some of the city’s top names in local music. Bands scheduled to play include Six Minute Century, Six Past Hell, Magistral as well as many special guests from Houston's Rock and Metal community including former and current members of Hollister Fracus and Chrome .44.  

The 10 p.m. show will take place at the 19th Hole, 202 Sawdust Road on the Northside of Houston.  For directions, the 19th Hole’s website is located at: http://www.19th.cc/ The event is sponsored by RemuS Productions and Outlaw Drinking Club. 

Event organizer Scott Deaver believes the tribute to Dimebag will be a show like no other.  “As a collective and as individuals, these musicians will be paying tribute to the body of work left behind by their fallen hero,” Deaver said. “They want to pay their respect to the man whose guitar playing set the benchmark for Metal shred. Not only that, he influenced an entire generation of musicians, especially guitarists, who are already making their presence known in the Heavy Metal world today.”While the tribute show will help keep Dimebag’s memory alive, Deaver said the loss will never be forgotten. “The news of this senseless tragedy rocked the Metal world to its very foundation,” he said. “His death has left a cavernous void that will never be filled.” 

JUST THE FACTS

Show: Wish You Were Here: A Tribute to Dimebag Darrell Abbott
Saturday, Dec. 10 @ 10 p.m.
All Ages Show, $6 Adults -- $10 minors

Location: 19th Hole Bar & Grill
202 Sawdust Road on the Northside of Houston

Bands: Six Minute Century, Six Past Hell, Magistral, Hollister Fracus, Chrome .44 

Sponsor: RemuS Productions



Friday, Nov 25th, 2005

Local Musician Ant Boogie to Host Internet Radio Shows

Hi all, Ant Boogie here. Just want to let you all know about my two internet shows that will begin next week! The first is the High Volume Music show on LocalSounds.Net which will focus on the Urban Music scene in and around Houston. Artist, managers, business folks etc in the local urban music scene will be featured in this weekly show that will air every Tuesday 8PM until 10PM. As we progress and grow, we're going to reach out to artist all over the globe. The first few months will focus on Houston and it's scene. My second show Spot One will be a podcast show that will be available starting December 2nd! Spot One will focus on music, artist, and everyone else in the business across the board. From country to rock, gospel to soul, opera to rap and everything in between. ALL GENRES.

In the coming months we also look to expand across the globe with indi artist of every genre. My wish list for both shows includes but IS NOT limited to appearances by Guy Schwartz, Caretta Bell, Evin, My Own I, Drop Trio, Inertia, Lil Brother Project, OG Style, Kenny Love, Wayside Drive,  Joe Carmouche and many, many more. If any artist reading this would be interested in having his/her/their music featured or being a guest on the show please send material, contact information, press kits and cds etc to:

Ant Boogie
c/o High Volume Music
8408 Colonial Lane
Houston, TX 77051

I have received quite a large number of packages already and I'm always looking for more! These shows are going to be hot ta def! Also look for High Volume Music Internet Radio to launch at the end of 2006. Hot music from the hottest underground artist around the world 24/7. All genres!

First look at Ant Boogie’s Upcoming Podcast Show-Spot One- http://spot1.v-i-v-o.com/
Station you can find the High Volume Music show- http://www.localsounds.net/

~ Ant Boogie



Tuesday, Nov 22nd, 2005

Musician's for Tots Toy Drive at The Firehouse Saloon

Sunday, December 11th at Noon - 6PM
The Firehouse Saloon
5930 SW Freeway at Fountainview

ALL AGES SHOW!!!!!!!!! We are so excited about this year's event!

Featuring:
Ezra Charles
Kevin Black
Brian Loftin and Texas Reflections
Troy McManus
Bucko Ruckus
and many more surprise guests!

We expect 300+ persons to attend this worthy cause so come early for best seats. The Firehouse Saloon has been gracious enough to donate their facility and sound equipment including sound personnel for this event. The performers and their bands are donating their time to help the cause. Many others are sponsoring the event with cash donations to help offset some of the expenses associated with the benefit. The admission for entrance is one unwrapped toy per person. Please bring a gift for a boy or girl ages 0-18. The Marines will be in attendance to collect the toys. The Firehouse Saloon has a full bar and food available for purchase during the event.

You can check out The Firehouse Saloon at www.firehousesaloon.com and the performers at: www.ezracharles.com, www.kevinblack.com, www.troymcmanus.com, www.brianloftinband.com , and www.buckoruckus.com.



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