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June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 3
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OUT & ABOUTby RACHEL ROCKS!
Summer is HERE!! Yippee!!! My feet will be in the
sand before I know it. I can guarantee you that the PA
Musician website will be updated by Friday, June 5th,
because after that day it is the official start to Summer,
and I am leaving with my family for VACATION!!! I am
so excited it’s crazy!!! I have tons of stuff to get done
between now and then, and the first step is getting this
article done, so here goes nothing!
First and foremost, I have to say Happy Birthday to
my Daddy, Whitey the Mighty (wytmyt) Noll!! June is
his birthday month. (We celebrate month long birthdays
in the Noll family). I wouldn’t be out here supporting
live music or doing anything that I love doing if it wasn’t
for you and your brilliant idea to create this amazing
magazine. It was an awesome vision, and I’m grateful
that I can help keep it going. I know I don’t tell you
enough, but you are truly an awesome Dad and I will
always love you. You are truly our rock and you help
keep us grounded. I’m so proud to call you my Daddy!
XOXOXOXOX! Happy Birthday and Happy Father’s
Day!!!!!
The month started out at The Abbey Bar for an all
original show. I unfortunately got there late in the night,
so I missed the first few bands, but I did get there in time
for The Bird Reserve. This four-piece is a very tight
group that definitely had the crowd on their feet and
filling the dance floor. It was awesome to see such a
great crowd out supporting original music. The Bird
Reserve had amazing harmonies and their music was
upbeat and very entertaining. It’s one of the bands that
you can’t watch without having a smile on your face, and
I definitely did.
The main reason I came to this show was to catch the
next band, Close to Consideration. They were on our
cover last month. It had been a long time since I actually
got out to see these guys, and I’m glad our schedules
finally matched up. During the interview they were
telling me about these shows they’ve been putting
together with a few other bands and how successful
they’ve been, it was great to see it for myself. It was
awesome to see so many people at The Abbey Bar
supporting original music. I know I don’t get out there
very often, and it seems like I don’t support original
music enough, but I do try and support those that support
me as much as possible. When Close to Consideration
took the stage the crowd was immediately back on their
feet and crowding the dance floor. CTC’s faster tempo,
funky songs had the crowd dancing along. For only
being a three piece these guys pull off an amazing sound.
They have a lot of big shows coming up throughout the
summer at a lot of really cool sounding festivals. Check
out their schedule in this issue and get out there and
support original music.
The following weekend I headed to Chick’s in
Hummelstown for Element 22. It was great seeing these
guys rockin’ out again. Element 22 play so many sing-a-
long songs that people love. There were people jumping
out of their seats because they were so excited by their
songs! Needless to say they had plenty of people on the
dance floor, dancing along, including me! It’s also been a
long time since I saw these guys. I still missed their lead
guitar player Dave, he was missing because his son was
graduating from college. Congrats to all the graduates
out there! Welcome to the working world!! Darrel
Adams was filling in on guitar so the show could go on.
With the decks opening for the summer Element 22 and
E22 Acousitc have some great gigs coming up in the
next month and beyond. Check out their schedule in this
issue and get out there and dance the night away!
The next night out was a long one, I first headed down
to New Oxford Social Hall to interview The
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June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 11
Happenstance Band, and to catch some of their show.
These guys perform two shows in one, they start the
night with a more acoustic set, and then for the 2nd and
3rd sets they turn up the volume and really start rocking!
I only had time to stay for their acoustic set. It worked
out great because there were still a good amount of
people finishing their dinner when they started playing at
8pm. For those that were done they came up and started
slow dancing and singing along. It’s nice to be able to
ease the crowd into your music gradually like that. To
read all about their show and them, check out this
month’s cover story and check out their ad to see their
full up to date schedule and plan your next night out on
the town!
My night wasn’t over yet, next I zoomed up to
Tubby’s for the Kix show. I was bummed I missed
Voodoo, but I heard that as usual they had an amazing
show. I was shocked and saddened to hear that Voodoo is
calling it quits after one more final show on June 27th at
Tubby’s. Their farewell show starts at 8pm with special
guests, Dirt Cheap, Bad Mr. Kitty, and Frayed Nott.
I’m sure that’s going to be one heck of a show that you
don’t want to miss.
When I did get there, Take 147 was still on the stage. It
was definitely a packed house at Tubby’s. I’m glad the
ladies of Take 147 got the opportunity to play in front of
such a huge “rock” crowd. It’s so easy to pigeon hole
Take 147 because they are an all female band, but they
can rock just like any all male band out there! Ro has
been a huge fan of Kix since they first started, so it was
quite the accomplishment for her and for all of them to
open up for Kix. They rocked their set and gained some
new fans in the process. Take 147 is taking a nice long
summer break so they can work on some new songs and
revamp a few things in their show. If you need your
Take 147 fix don’t forget they still have their CD
“Nothin’ to Lose” for sale. Support local music and buy
a CD today!
Finally the last band of the night was Kix. Kix is
definitely making a comeback with their latest CD
“Rock Your Face Off”. They have been touring all over
the US. Their next PA date is July 11th at Moose Park in
Gettysburg. Every time I see these guys I am truly
amazed at their talent. They definitely do ‘rock your face
off’ at every show! It was great rockin’ out with our good
family friend, Glen Hoffman. Glen started out as one of
the very first Kix fans back in the early 80s with my
brother Chris. They followed them everywhere. Every
Kix show I see I definitely miss Chris and wonder what
he would be up to if he were still here on earth. I love
and miss my big brother, even tho it’s almost been 25
years since he died. He was ran off the road while
driving a motorcycle. Remember with Summer and this
beautiful weather keep an eye out for motorcycles! They
are everywhere!!! Tubby’s did a great job hosting a big
show. Steve required the main rock room to be smoke-
free, so they opened up the side door and corded off an
area for smokers. It worked out really well, and I
personally loved having it be no smoking! Maybe
someday we can get all venues to be smoke free! That
would be awesome!!
This was a crazy month as usual, so I didn’t get out
again until the big Krankin’ for the King event at Moose
Park in Gettysburg. It was a benefit for Randy
Robertson, former owner of Triple R Guitar, and
fellow area musician. He was recently diagnosed with
cancer, and had to undergo a major surgery at John’s
Hopkins and when he gets strong enough, he will also be
going through chemo. It’s a long road, but he is ready to
fight, and we are all right here fighting by his side! It
was an all day event. Throughout the day there were just
over 1,700 paying people through the gate. There was
Out & About continued....
cont inued on page 1 2 . . .
12 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
tons of donated food and raffle baskets, all in all the
event raised over $9,500 for Randy’s family. It was so
beautiful to feel the love throughout the entire Moose
Park. Everyone was there for a common goal and that
was to support Randy and his family. It was awesome
that Randy himself made it to the event for the full day!
He posed for lots of pictures and signed autographs
throughout the day. Before the last band, Steel, he even
got up on stage to thank everyone for coming and for
organizing the event. Needless to say, it was pretty
emotional. It was amazing how well run the entire event
was. It was organized and ran by the Women of the
Moose, which also mainly happen to be the Wives of
Steel, plus a few of their friends. So many people were
pitching in to help any way they possibly could. Aaron
and Scott from Sonic Productions did the production
for the day, and Jonny from Rebel Lighting Works lit
up the stage! It was an absolutely amazing day. Mom and
I both got to go to the show together, so that was pretty
special too. I always love hangin’ with my Mommy.
Even from the very beginning there was a decent crowd.
People were all spread out with chairs, blankets, coolers,
etc. They were there for the long haul and ready to a
enjoy a great day of music.
Scarlet Angel started of the event at 1pm unfortunately
we weren’t able to be there at 1 but it looked like they
started the event with a great performance. The first band
we saw of the day was Gun Metal Gray. I haven’t seen
these guys in a while. They recently underwent some
member changes, they have a new bass player and
drummer, but that didn’t slow them down, they still had
that stage rockin! It was awesome to see the kids with
their devil horns rockin’ out with the band too! Gun
Metal Gray have so much energy and an amazing stage
presence. They were a great band choice to help get the
party started!
The next band was Single Barrel. I’ve written about
these guys a few times now. They are taking Central PA
by the horns and getting their name out there and getting
their time on area stages. They’ve played quite a few
shows as openers, and I’ve seen their name on quite a
few benefits as well, and now they are headlining shows
too. Single Barrel is definitely a band that has grown on
me. The first time I saw them I was tyring to figure out
the songs they were playing, I honestly thought they
Out & About continued....
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Randy, Rachel & Molly Robertson
were originals, I was quickly corrected that it’s more just modern southern rock, and
Outlaw Country that you don’t hear on the radio everyday by great bands like
Blackberry Smoke, Shooter Jennings, Gov’t Mule, and many more. Once you hear and
experience their music you realize that their musicianship is top notch which makes
for a great show! You also
learn some things about life
that you might’ve wanted to
say before, but just didn’t know
how to say it! Check out Single
Barrel’s ad in this issue to get
them booked at your venue,
you won’t be disappointed.
They will be playing at Double
K on June 20th with special
guests, The Ride, starting at
9:30pm.
Even before Single Barrel
was over, Mom and I got
whisked into the kitchen for
kitchen duty. It was great to see
all of the donated food. It was also overwhelming trying to get the orders all right as
we were doing in by shouting them out to all the wonderful crew that was helping, it
was chaotic! Thanks to everyone that came
and stood in line, I know it got long at times,
but I hope the deliciousness of the food
made you forget all about it in the end.
Unfortunately, because of being in the
kitchen, I pretty much missed Ebenezer
Screw and Voodoo. I ran out and snagged a
couple of quick pictures, and I could see that
there were still plenty of people out there
enjoying the show. By the time we made it
out of the kitchen I was amazed at the
amount of people there. The crowd more
than doubled while we were in there!
We made it out of the kitchen
in time to hear Smokin’
Gunnz. If you read my articles
you know I write about these
guys very often. I love seeing
them every chance I get! It
was great seeing Mom see
them and enjoying their music
too. Smokin’ Gunnz plays in
the Gettysburg area quite a bit
for bike nights, etc. and you
could tell a good chunk of the
crowd was there to see them.
These guys are a well-oiled
machine. If you haven’t seen them perform, you really should. They play throughout
the state and beyond. In September they will be down at Ocean City Maryland’s Bike
Week. Check out their schedule in this issue to see where they are rockin’ next and get
out there and support some deep fried southern rock!
The next band of the night was Penntera. I absolutely love these guys. Dave Garry
has been a great addition to the band as their new bass player. I’ve seen him on lots of
stages, and I have to say he really seems like he is finally where he belongs. My good
friend Terri was there, so needless to say I probably banged my head a little too much.
Aaron —sound man extraordinare
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 13
Organisers: Lisa, Joanie, Joanie’s Mom w/ Randy
The Wonderful Crowd hung in there all day - STEEL’S performance
Randy Thanking Everyone
cont inued on page 1 4 . . .
14 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
OUT & ABOUT continued...
I’m still paying for it today, even tho it was truly worth
it! Johnny is so crazy on vocals. I honestly have no idea
how he can sing like he does and bounce around the
stage. He has so much energy! I was able to sneak up on
stage and get some great pics of Space! Make sure and
check out the Hot Shots in color at www.pamusician.net.
Penntera’s boat cruise on the New York Harbor has
been changed to Friday, September 18th, that just means
it’s a week closer to my birthday! I can’t wait to share
such an awesome experience with these guys! I hope you
can all hop on the bus and come and join us, it’s going to
be a great time and New York City will never be the
same! Hahaha! Check out their ad in this issue for all of
the details.
Before Steel, the last band of the night, took the stage,
Randy himself made his way up on the stage to express
his thankfulness for everyone there and everyone who
organized this amazing event. It was very emotional for
everyone there. Randy still has a very long road ahead
of him, but I think he knows without a doubt, he’s got
lots of people looking out for him and cheering him on!
There are two more benefits for Randy, I am
unfortunately out of town for both of them, but on
Sunday, May 31st there is one at Fed Live in Harrisburg,
I understand that will be an all age event and June 6th at
Gullifty’s where Pentagon will be performing. It’s $15
per person, but all proceeds go directly to Randy and his
family to help with medical bills and living expenses. So
far with the benefit and the Go Fund Me account, over
$22,000 has been raised for Randy. So completely
awesome! And if you don’t have time to go to any of the
events you can still contribute through Go Fund Me.
Now onto something else awesome… Steel!! They
were originally scheduled to play first to get things
started, but I’m glad they played last to end the night. It
seemed like a perfect way to end the day. I know they all
must’ve been extremely exhausted. They were all
running around along with their wives and friends to
keep everything running smoothly. They were running
sound, manning the gate, working in the kitchen,
emptying trash, and just making sure everyone was
having a good time all day long, plus they had to help
prepare things ahead of time, and clean up after! What a
super group of people!! So besides for doing all of that,
they also had to find some ultra reserve of energy to rock
the stage at the end of the night and they did one HE**
of a job!! Steel goes above and beyond at every show
and this was no different. Kudos to you all for an
excellent show and an overall amazing event! Check out
Steel’s schedule in this issue and get out there and rock
with these guys soon!! You will be glad you did! You can
also check them out online at www.steelrocks.com.
It’s time once again for my yearly, my boys’ Daddy is
great speech… Happy Father’s Day to my wonderful
husband Kris. I would not be able to be “Out & About”
having the time of my life if it wasn’t for him holding
down the fort. He supports me in all kinds of crazy ways,
but the best way of all is the Daddy that he is to our
boys! He is one of the “kids” always playing with them
and convincing Mom to buy the latest gadget or game.
He loves us all unconditionally and I can’t believe how
lucky I am to have hooked my fingers into this guy! We
also are celebrating our 16th Wedding Anniversary while
we are at the beach on June 12th!!! Time sure does fly
when you are having fun! Thanks Kris for loving me
like you do, I love you too!!!!!
Well that’s all for this month. I will be gone for a good
part of June, so you all have to fill in for me and get out
there and SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!!! I hope you all
have a fabulous month. Happy Father’s Day to all the
Dads, especially mine! If you have any questions or
concerns, e-mail me at RachelRocks@pamusician.net.
Also, check out our website at www.pamusician.net.
16 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
The Happenstance Band is a two-piece band from south central PA. Yes, that’s
right I said two-piece! Rich Johnson and Jordon Reese came together through none
other than ‘happenstance’. Similar people loving similar music, they both loved
playing it, and they both wanted to get out there and perform, and here they are!
Rich Johnson has over 30 years guitar experience, playing in multiple bands since
the 80’s, but he is very happy where he is now. He plays many different types of
guitars, but two of his favorites are an acoustic twelve string, and his beautiful Strat.
He’s confident he can bring the classic rock back to the bar/club scene and bring you
one heck of a show!
Jordon Reese is the other half. He’s their lead vocalist, and also their light man and
sound engineer. Jordon has been singing and playing music ever since he heard
Nirvana’s “Nevermind” album back in 1991. He doesn’t have the same amount of
band experience as Rich, but Rich has definitely taught him a lot. One of the most
important lessons is to appreciate more of the classics, like The Beatles and The
Rolling Stones. After months of practice Jordon is finally confident enough to
perform some songs from these great artists. His one rule though is he tries to make
them sound as authentic as possible.
How do two guys make The Beatles sound “authentic”? Through lots of trial and
error Jordan and Rich have finally found great programs or backing tracks to play
with. They can now cover at least 20-30 different artists, everything from Beatles to
Megadeth to even some current radio hits! You might think playing to a track is easy,
but it’s actually even more difficult. You can’t “make it your own,” you have to keep
everything the same as the original artists, the same tempo, same style, everything!
The Happenstance Band has learned to embrace technology. They don’t have just a
little drum click track backing them up, they have a full band with many different
instruments: piano, violin, cello, you name it, and it’s probably there somewhere! The
best part is you never have to worry about them playing too loud, or not practicing
their part, and if they ever get an ego you can just fire them with the push of a button!
Rich and Jordon both understand how important stage presence is, and trust me,
they have it! They definitely know how to put on a show. They have a full light show
that is also computer driven, including a spot light! At a full show they usually play
three different sets. Their first set is a calmer acoustic set. A lot of venues they play
usually have a dinner crowd, like the New Oxford Social Club where I saw them.
That first set allows people to finish their food and get ready to party. Their second set
turns up the volume a bit and they start playing more of their dance favorites to get the
party started and get the dance floor moving. They also add in another element of
surprise, during their second and third sets they play music videos from the original
artists on TVs on both sides of the stage. You can watch the original music video while
watching the music live! It’s quite interesting and something I’ve never seen done
before. By the third set their funk is funking and the speakers are crankin! They also
play a lot more rock ‘n’ roll to keep the party thumping all night long!
With only a year of playing together they’ve already accomplished a lot. In their first
year they’ve already played over 35 shows. They already have at least 60 songs on
their set list, and they learn at two or three new ones every week. Even though they are
playing with a program they are still available to take requests from their fans, they
even encourage it. Obviously they want to make sure the crowd is having a good time.
They cover so many different genres of music, and they can easily still change their
set lists with the push of a button depending on the crowd. One thing they don’t play is
country. The closest thing they get to country is “Wagon Wheel!” Overall they can
play up to four hours of music. Even though learning new songs is important they
know that people are looking for more than just a show, they want an experience, and
The Happenstance Band is ready to give them one!
Getting started in the music industry is not easy to do, especially when no one out
there is doing what you do. They’ve been hitting the pavement talking face to face
with many club owners throughout Pennsylvania and Maryland, and it has paid off.
Once they convince them to give them a try, they can pretty much guarantee they’ll
also get another booking in the process. They are also very versatile in where they can
play because they only need about 5 square feet of space and enough equipment for 4
Channels, not too many “bands” can say that! Their shows can be as small or as big as
the venue will let them.
They have had some help by other bands allowing them to open for them, and
getting their foot in the door, they wanted to send out a huge thanks to Blakkout and
Disorderly Conduct. Having bands that are already established in the area vouch for
you definitely helps make finding a gig a little easier. They also wanted to send a huge
shout out to all the venues that have given them a chance too! Obviously without the
venues to play in, they wouldn’t have a show. The Happenstance Band is just getting
started. Their minds are constantly reeling with new ideas, and they are ready to
entertain the masses!
You can check out The Happenstance Band’s ad in this issue to see how you can
get them booked at your venue! You can also check them out on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/thehappenstanceband or on their main website ,
www.thehappenstanceband.com. You can also call them direct at 717-421-1095.
The Happenstance Band is ready to bring the show to your venue! Don’t delay and
give them a call TODAY!
The Happenstance Band: More Than Just a Show, It’s an Experience!Article & photos By: Rachel Rocks
Jordan Reese
Rich Johnson
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 17
18 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
overwhelming support when tickets went on sale April
20th. More than 300,000 tickets sold in five cities, with
four cities sold out in minutes. Promoter Garry Van
Egmond added four new dates. The final tally could
eventually match the record-breaking 700,000 sold for
2010’s Black Ice tour. On that tour, AC/DC set a new
record for Australia’s fastest-selling tour.
Social Distortion’s summer tour will feature the band
playing its 1990 self-titled album front-to-back along
with many of the band’s classic songs. This year marks
the 25th anniversary of the LP that brought the band a
wider audience. Songs such as “So Far Away,” “Ball
and Chain” and “Story Of My Life” as well as Social
D’s treatment of the Johnny Cash hit “Ring Of Fire.”
Mike Ness & Co. visit Philadelphia’s Festival Pier on
August 19th. “We are very excited about this tour,” Ness
said. “It was a great feeling to play songs that I hadn’t
played in twenty years, or more. All I can say is ‘it’s
gonna be a kick ass show!!!!”
Axl Rose wrote to Indonesian President Joko Widodo
April 27th asking him to stop the impending executions
of three individuals convicted of drug trafficking, which
carries a mandatory death sentence. The wordy, 15-
paragraph missive questions the efficacy of capital
punishment in fighting drug trafficking, and ask that
Widodo “give [these three individuals] a permanent
stay of execution and ... change the course of your own
life and place in both your country’s and world history.”
Rose says he did not know these men personally, but
“their story has touched me deeply.” He adds that, “I
realize I am no one and no one to get involved with your
affairs or those of your government.” The news came out
April 28 that they were both executed as scheduled, but a
third person slated for execution was pardoned.
UPCOMING SHOWS: Jerry Joseph & the
Jackmormons Harrisburg Abbey June 13. Local H /
Anthrophobia Lancaster Chameleon June 14. The
Rolling Stones Pittsburgh Heinz Field June 20. The
Killers Atlantic City Borgata June 20. The War On
Drugs Washington DC 9:30 Club June 21. Fuel
/Everclear / Toadies Bethlehem Sands June 25. Dave
Matthews Band Camden, NJ Susquehanna Bank Center
June 27. MixTape Festival featuring NKOTB, Nelly,
TLC, Salt n Pepa, Vanilla Ice Hersheypark Stadium
June 27.
Hey music lovers! June has arrived and summer is
almost here. So much going on in our area this month
both inside and outside check out all this info...
The First Annual BBQ blowout at The Stage 5 on the
river in Williamsport takes place on the 27th. Music from
Eric Val, Just Bob, Scott Bird, Dug Out, The
Keystone Ska Exchange and All Else Fails.
LT’s Tavern in Milton has some great live rock music
this month including Black Sabbath tribute band
Paranoid on the 6th, Red Halo on the 13th, Broken
Fayth on the 20th and Cosmic Jelly on the 27th.
Tony Harlan’s Random Axe returns to the American
Legion Post 104 in Montoursville on the 19th and the
American Legion Post 617 in South Willliamsport on
the 27th.
Vocalist Nick Coyle has teamed up with guitarist Mike
Orlando from the band Adrenaline Mob and drummer
Chad Szeliga (formerly of Breaking Benjamin) to form
a new project called A Beautiful Disaster, look them up
on online for more info.
Audio Box returns this month with a few shows check
them out at The Trout Run Hotel for Bike Night on the
11th, and The Mill Tavern in Montoursville on the 27th.
The Hummels Wharf Fire Co. also known as “The
Wharf” welcomes in the legendary Queensryche on
the 12th along with Lynch Mob and Gun Metal Gray
opening the show!
Speedy’s Place in Milton has Unncutt on the 13th.
Williamsport area band Strawberry Alley have
undergone some member changes as well as a name
change, now a three piece and going by Strawbridge
Road, they will be debuting at Knoebels Grove
Amusement Park in Elysburg on the 25th.
The Flu Shots are taking advantage of the summer
weather this month with some outdoor shows check them
out at the Turbotville Fireman’s Carnival on the 3rd,
the Hughesville Fireman’s Carnival on the 6th and at
the American Legion Post 268 in Muncy on the 26th.
A great new band, Gentleman East comprised of
former members of the Badlees as well as guitarist
Aaron Fink (formerly of Breaking Benjamin) released a
new 6 song EP entitled “Oh Yesterday” last month, look
them up on Facebook and give it a listen!
Prairie Dogma a great acoustic duo featuring Mike
Lundy and Dave Jackson roll into the Smiling
Chameleon in Lewisburg on the 4th, Barrel 135 in
Williamsport for a Lycoming Co, SPCA Fundraiser on
the 17th, the Fero Winery in Lewsiburg on the 19th and
NATIONAL continued... SusquehannaValley NEWS
By Jeff Kreitz Jr.
cont inued on next page . . .
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 19
the Mill Tavern in Montoursvile on the 26th.
Jeff Pittinger is set to release his new project next
month. Singer/songwriter Eric Val has just finished up a
new single entitled “Beautiful Lie” a video and release
date will be forthcoming. Hard rockers, Quarterstick
invade the Millheim Hotel on the 6th and the Crossfork
Inn on the 27th.
Some big news for you people that don’t know the
new Breaking Benjamin album ‘Dark Before Dawn”
drops on June 23rd!
That’s all I have for this month, please send any info,
news to me at motherman2000@yahoo.com or look me
up on Facebook. As always get out and support live
music as well as the Pennsylvania Musician Magazine!
Susquehanna Valley continued...
THEPROFESSOR’S“LIVE REVIEWS”
By Jim Price
It was 28 years ago. I was managing and promoting an
Altoona-based rock band called Tommi-Gunn, and was
already advertising Tommi-Gunn’s schedule in PA
Musician Magazine. Noticing that most other parts of
the state had their own writers and columns but that there
was no Altoona-based column, the light bulb went off in
my head to start penning a column to report local music
happenings in my part of the state. Although Robin
nixed the idea when I first proposed it, I decided to send
her a sample article anyway. It would cost me a few
sheets of typing paper, a big envelope and a few postage
stamps. The worst thing that could happen was that my
sample article ended up in the trash can. It didn’t. My
first PA Musician writ appeared in June, 1987, and
hasn’t missed a month since. Thanks again to Robin and
Whitey for letting me do my thing in PA Musician each
month; this magazine was a game-changer for my life
and career, and opened doors to multiple new
friendships, job opportunities, musical sojourns and life-
long memories. I have been part of PA Musician for
more than half of my life!
Last month, I enjoyed two things I had waited at least
30 years to experience. One was the new Mad Max
movie, Mad Max: Fury Road. (What a FANTASTIC
flick; I have already viewed it twice as I type this, and
will likely have seen it at least once more as you read
this!) And 35 years after first purchasing and hearing the
vinyl import version of their “Strong Arm of the Law”
album, I finally got to see 1980s New Wave of British
Heavy Metal pioneers Saxon in concert! When I learned
Saxon was spotlighting music from their classic “Strong
Arm of the Law”, “Wheels of Steel” and “Denim and
Leather” albums during their current tour, I knew I had
to do the roadtrip to Reverb in Reading to bear witness!
Several groups opened for Saxon; I missed the first, Red
Halo, but arrived during Small Town Titans’ set.
Singer/bassist Phil Freeman, guitarist/singer Ben Guiles
and drummer/singer Jonny Ross introduced a number of
new hard-hitting songs that should be on their
forthcoming new CD. Two Philadelphia-based groups
followed; playing their second show, Salems Outlaws
generated a strong, melody-based take on 80s-styled
metal, while Corners of Sanctuary thundered with a
classic metal sound rooted in the tradition of Judas Priest
and Black Sabbath. Allentown’s MindMaze then rallied
the growing crowd, performing original, classic-styled
power metal. Sarah Teets delivered a strong, clear voice
up front, with Jeff Teets demonstrating detailed,
precision lead guitar work, and drummer Kalin
Schweizerhof and bassist Rich Pasqualone driving the
attack with thundering, pummeling rhythms. MindMaze
cont inued on page 2 0 . . .
20 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
did songs from their latest CD, “Back From the Edge”,
such as “End of Eternity,” and mixed in older material as
well. With the sound of motorcycles setting the tone,
Saxon arrived on the Reverb stage and revved up their
classic “Motorcycle Man” to launch their performance.
As advertised, Saxon spotlighted songs from their early
career; doing numbers from the aforementioned albums
plus songs from their “Power and the Glory” and
“Crusader” albums as well. Singer Biff Byford,
guitarists Paul Quinn and Doug Scarratt, bassist Nibbs
Carter and drummer Nigel Glockler played nearly all of
their classics - “Power and the Glory,” “And the Bands
Played On,” “To Hell and Back Again,” “This Town
Rocks,” “Strong Arm of the Law,” “20,000 Feet,” “The
Eagle Has Landed,” “Princess of the Night,” “747
(Strangers in the Night),” “Heavy Metal Thunder” and
more. Every Saxon favorite fired up the Reverb crowd
more, and the group honored requests handed to them at
the front of the stage. Their epic about the assassination
of John F. Kennedy, “Dallas 1 PM,” was a clear-cut
favorite, and when they honored requests for the title
song from “Crusader,” Biff explained that the song had
been banned in some nations due to its history-based
lyrics. When the Reverb crowd demanded an encore,
Doug reappeared on stage to fire off a guitar solo, which
led into the two-song encore of “Wheels of Steel” and
Saxon’s shout-along anthem “Denim and Leather” to
close the night.
When I journeyed to State College early last month to
pick up and commence deliveries of the May issues of
PA Musician, I never suspected I would end up at a
Garth Brooks concert! But when a friend in town texted
and informed me that he had a free extra tickets with my
name on it, I found myself at Penn State’s Bryce Jordan
Center to see Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood in
concert. Opening the evening was one of Garth’s
backing singers this night, singer/songwriter Karyn
Rochelle, who performed a short set of several of her
original songs. A North Carolina native now based in
Nashville, Karyn has written songs for such country
music heavyweights as George Jones, LeAnn Rimes,
Ronnie Milsap, Reba McIntyre and others. She did such
numbers as the catchy and punchy “Jezabels,” “Better
Off,” and a song she wrote for former American Idol
contestant Kellie Pickler, “Red High Heels.”
A chaotic cyber malfunction-themed intro led into
Garth Brooks’ opener “Man Against Machine,”
followed by his proclamation “Let’s kick the s**t out of
this place!” and his driving honky-tonk hit “Two of a
Kind (Workin’ on a Full House).” From there, Garth
took over the house and had the huge Bryce Jordan
Center audience eating from his hands as he and his
band - keyboardists David Gant and Steve Cox,
guitarist Johnny Garcia, fiddler Jimmy Mattingly,
pedal steel player Bruce Bouton, bassist Mark
Greenwood, drummer Mike Palmer, and backing
singers Karyn, Vicki Hampton and Robert Bailey -
performed hits from throughout his career. “Beaches of
Cheyenne,” “The River,” “Two Piña Coladas,” “Ain’t
Goin’ Down (‘Til the Sun Comes Up),” “God’s Greatest
Gifts,” “Thunder Rolls” and “People Loving People”
were among the songs performed early on. As Garth
performed “In Another’s Eyes,” his wife, Trisha
Yearwood, stepped onto the stage to join him, before
performing her own mini-set. Trisha sang several of her
best-known songs, including “XXX’s and OOO’s (An
American Girl),” “How Do I Live,” the title track to her
latest album “PrizeFighter” and “She’s in Love with the
Boy.” Garth then returned to continue with more of his
hits, including “Shameless,” “Callin’ Baton Rouge,”
“Friends in Low Places” and “The Dance” to end the
set. The Bryce Jordan Center crowd quickly erupted to
demand not one, but two encores. The first encore
featured a fast-firing version of “The Fever.” For the
second, Garth and his band honored requests from the
audience, doing a solo rendition of “That Girl Is a
Cowboy,” “Mom,” “All American Kid,” “Much Too
Young (to Feel This Damn Old)” and “Standing Outside
the Fire.” Admittedly, I was not a big Garth Brooks fan
and knew only his major hits entering this show, but he
made a believer out of me this night and proved he is a
top-notch entertainer! He was personable and
appreciative of the crowd at all times, and worked all
sides of the stage, even crouching down at one point to
grab a lady’s cell phone and do a selfie with her at the
edge of the stage. He was conversational, humorous, and
owned the venue and the audience.
Outdoors, downtown Huntingdon hosted its annual
Mayfest celebration in late April. After helping to kick
things off with my Backyard Rockers bandmates on the
Desert Garden Day Spa stage, I checked out some of the
other live musical entertainment happening throughout
the event. Next on the Desert Garden Day Spa stage,
Dan & Galla provided a fun midday party as they did
joyful versions of 1960s hits from Herman’s Hermits, the
Turtles, Monkees, Mamas & Papas, Three Dog Night,
Spencer Davis Group, the McCoys, Doors and more.
Dan played keys and sang, while Galla sang, played
guitar and flute. Galla was also drafted to step across the
street to emcee a series of dachshund drag races, and the
duo provided fun for the kids with limbo, hula-hooping,
bubble-blowing and bubblegum bubble contests. Further
up Washington Street, I then saw the trio of Chris
Matthews, Tom Shaffer and Rich Stomackin. Chris
sang, Tom played guitar and sang, and Rich played
harmonica. This trio performed a pleasant mixture of
The Professor continued...
Saxon by Jim Price
cont inued on next page . . .
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 21
classic rock and folk hits from the Band, Rolling Stones,
Beach Boys and more, plus touches of gospel. I then
returned to the Desert Garden Day Spa stage to witness
the Nick Miller Project with guest singer Gabe Green.
I have witnessed Nick’s brand of musical looping before,
where he uses loops of guitar riffs, percussion and other
sounds to build song arrangements, tunes and jams. He
has pushed this art to a brand new level; here he took a
number of Gabe’s original pop/R&B-flavored numbers
and created looping arrangements for the songs, setting
the launching pad for Gabe to display her expressive and
soulful voice. Nick also unleashed some incredible
spacey bow-on-guitar solos. Besides original songs like
Gabe’s “Love Me Long Time” and “Curbside Blues,”
highlights included an inventive take on Sonny & Cher’s
“Bang Bang,” Nick pulling out his sitar for a couple of
solo numbers, and a dazzling version of “All Along the
Watchtower” near show’s end.
Last month’s 48th annual Blair County Arts Festival
again provided a wide variety of live music throughout
the campus of Penn State Altoona. I arrived during the
Beatlemaniacs’ performance at the Food Court stage, as
singer/drummer Jerry Carnicella, guitarists/singers Bob
Helbig and Johann von Schrenkel, and bassist/singer
Andy Rhody celebrated the hits of the Fab Four and
honored audience requests along the way. Next on the
Food Court stage was Mama Corn, doing what
guitarist/singer Bruce Forr described as “bluegrass-ish
music.” Bruce, singer/banjo man Jeremy Nelson,
upright bassist/singer Bryan Homan and singer/dobro
player John Stevens (mandolinist Chuck Cox was
missing this day) mixed original songs from their latest
CD, “Hold That Crooked Line”, with select traditional
bluegrass and folk favorites. Their voices and harmonies
were bright, delivered with grins and frequent touches of
The Professor continued...
cont inued on page 2 2 . . .
22 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
witty humor. Tyne & the Fastlyne followed with their
own folk-based sound. Tyne on vocals and banjo, Bill
“Wiggus” Wilgus on guitar and mandolin, and John
“JK” Kennedy on upright bass did a diverse range of
song material in their own unique flavor, including tunes
from Indigo Girls, Dolly Parton, Steve Earle, and a
version of Mick Ralphs’ (Bad Company’s) “Oh,
Atlanta” (made popular more recently by Alison
Krauss). Tyne displayed an amazing, impassioned voice
and dazzling banjo skills. Johnstown’s Flood City Brass
then brought brass-driven rock and funk to the Food
Court stage, doing numbers from Chicago, Aretha
Franklin, Steely Dan, Ides Of March, Gary Moore, Jesus
Christ Superstar and more. While the horn section of sax
player Jen Shuty, trombonist/sax player Jim Bilitski
and trumpeter Dan Perich was frequently in the
spotlight, singers Tom Pavic and Natalie Kurchak
demonstrated stellar voices, and Randy Rutherford put
on a guitar clinic with tasty, fluid leads. Your Dad’s
Friends then brought their vintage rock’n’roll party to
the Laurel Pavilion stage. Chris Gallagher filled in on
bass, joining singers/guitarists Don Bedell and Rick
Herbster, keyboardist/singer Roger Corey and
drummer Dave DeCapria as they performed numbers
from the Isley Brothers, Monkees, Tommy James, Neil
Diamond, a Lieber & Stoller medley and more. Chris
Woodward & Shindiggin’ closed out the festival’s first
day with a country party, mixing original songs with
current and classic country favorites. Their set built
momentum as they did songs from Miranda Lambert,
Brantley Gilbert, Blake Shelton, Johnny Cash, Lee
Greenwood and more; leading to the climax, where all
four band members - Chris, bassist/singer Brianna
Sheeder, guitarist/singer Mike Gambardella and
drummer/singer Zac Grace - brought instruments off
the stage and played among the audience.
I caught part of Sunday’s Blair County Arts Festival
slate as well, starting with new State College-based
group Frackwater Jack on the Food Court stage.
Although this group features Your Dad’s Friends’
guitarist/singer Don Bedell and YDF alumnus Dave
Misera on lead vocals and guitar, this band does not
play your dad’s music, instead specializing in
1990s/2000s-era rock and alternative. Dave, Don,
bassist Chris Gallagher and drummer John
Cunningham performed tunes from Red Hot Chili
Peppers, Weezer, Nirvana, Jet, U2 and more. I then saw
Pat McGinnis and Jason McIntyre perform on the
Misciagna Portico stage, playing a mix of original songs
from Pat’s recently-issued self-titled CD, plus select
numbers from John Prine, Lowell George and more.
This was one of Jason’s final area appearances before
he relocated to Denver, Colorado at month’s end.
Craft beer proficienados and live music fans
converged at Altoona’s People’s Natural Gas Field last
month for the 8th annual Pints for Pets Brewfest
fundraiser for the Central PA Humane Society. Pints for
Pets convened over two sessions, an afternoon and
evening session, each featuring beer sampling for more
than 75 brewers, and two bands each. Tree the Band led
off the afternoon session with uptempo folk and Celtic
rock sounds. Singer/guitarist Matt Harnett, fiddler Jen
Harnett, bassist John Penrod and drummer Mike
Dixon performed tunes from Old Crow Medicine Show,
Flogging Molly, amped-up traditional Irish and folk
numbers, and more. Shallow 9 fired up the dance party
during the latter half of the first brew-sampling session,
mixing modern and classic rock, pop and funky
favorites. The Perkolators’ Eric Milinchuk now plays
guitar for Shallow 9, joining singer Erika Marino,
bassist Mitch Neuder and drummer Todd
Harshbarger. Before Pints for Pets’ second session
The Professor continued...
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24 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
HIGHWAY 4 - UP IN ARMS (no label) Butler-based
foursome Highway 4 gives their own fresh kick to
anthemic, classic-styled hard rock on their first album,
Up In Arms. Highway 4’s hard-driving sound is firmly
rooted in 1970s and 1980s-era guitar rock, especially
AC/DC. Mike
Angert’s guitar
f l a v o r i s
informed by the
s t y l i n g s o f
AC/DC’s
Malcolm and
Angus Young,
and the rhythm
section of bassist
Tylar Parker
and drummer
Graham
Huselton packs
aggressive
horsepower and wallop behind Highway 4’s attack.
Singer Kelly Brown fronts the group with a potent,
high-flying voice that recalls classic rock women such
as Pat Benatar, Lita Ford and Heart’s Ann Wilson. The
songs and riffs are catchy, dealing with commonplace
topics of relationship ups and downs and life in a rock
band. Much of Up In Arms is pedal-to-the-metal, with
the band survival disc-opening ode “Day By Day”
setting the tone. The group infuses a funk edge into
“Come Down,” and “You Can Find Me Here” delivers a
slight rockabilly punch. The high-octane “Red Handed”
is one of several songs unleashing scorn over
relationship deception; others include the stern “One of
These Days” and “Somewhere Caught (In the Middle).”
The group muses about the apprehension of stepping
away and hitting the road on the burner “Headin’ “Out”
and the slower “Break on Free.” And music dreams and
aspirations are the focus of “Long Road Home” and
“The Rhythm.” Highway 4 slows it down once on the
final track, the Pat Benatar-flavored “Where’s Your
Faith.” Highway 4 plays for keeps, and their delivery is
aggressive and tight. The guitar chords snarl, the guitar
solos slice and dice, and the rhythms drive and hammer.
Kelly Brown’s voice rings high and clear throughout the
set, and she delivers her voice with heart and passion.
Recorded by Doug Kasper at Pittsburgh’s Soundscape
Studio, Up In Arms sounds big, crisp and full; allowing
Highway 4 to show their teeth without compromising
their melodic edge. Those longing for classic-flavored
rock will savor what Highway 4 brings to the table on
Up in Arms, a bold introductory salvo designed for
cranking loud on big sound systems. (The CD can be
obta ined through the group’s websi te ,
www.highway4band.com.)
COASTAL REMEDY - TO THE WORLD (no label)
Indiana’s Coastal Remedy raises the bar on their
songwriting skills on their sophomore full-length CD, To
the World. The sound generated by singer/guitarist Max
Bizousky, guitarist Adam Hess, bassist Matt Snyder
and drummer Matt Magill is rooted in contemporary
alternative and indie rock in the spirit of Incubus, yet
displays structured and infectious melodies and ambient
tones through the disc’s 14 tracks. Coastal Remedy
plays with a variety of song arrangements and dynamics
on the album; the disc-opener “Cozy” quickly builds to
its punchy, infectious chorus in its offer of foldaway
comfort, while the title track “To the World” is a
dynamic, dual-speed affair. The group gets heavy with
the explosive, tension-and-release arrangement of
“Bones,” and experiments with escalating arrangements
on “Thought” and
the jazz-informed
“Golden Place.”
Coastal Remedy
is also adept at
slower paces;
constructing an
infectious, soulful
g r o o v e o n
“Gloria,” taking
listeners on a
dreamy acoustic
ride on “The
River” a n d
painting darker shades on the atmospheric and ambient
“She’s in Love.” Bizousky varies his delivery, from
high-soaring vocal acrobatics to soft-spoken, poetic
passages. Instrumentally, Coastal Remedy mixes up
their textures and tones, layering guitars and changing
up rhythms to keep the entire set fresh-sounding from
start to end. Produced and engineered by Klint Macro
at Cobblesound Recording Company in New
Kensington, To the World sounds clean, crisp and full,
and lets the band expose their expansive musical
personality with minimal studio bells and whistles. The
result is a fresh, captivating listen; Coastal Remedy
elaborates on their style and sound on To the World,
revealing to the world an adventurous band unafraid to
explore and push the boundaries of their musical realm.
(The CD can be purchased through the group’s website,
www.coastalremedy.com.)
WRITING OFF TOMORROW - FLIRTING WITH
DEATH EP (no label) A dual-state collaboration
featuring musicians from Somerset County,
Pennsylvania and Morgantown, West Virginia, Writing
Off Tomorrow formed nearly five years ago. The
group’s sophomore seven-song EP, Flirting with Death,
defines and refines the group’s unique and tenacious nu-
metal dynamic. Casey Ringler’s caustic guitar work and
feral vocal snarl
counterbalance
the me lod ic
siren-like voice
of the group’s
lead singer and
lyricist, Megan
Edison; w i th
b a s s i s t Bill
Wiltrout a n d
drummer Joe
Canfield
powering brute-
force rhythms.
Writ ing Off
Tomorrow runs the gamut between pounding metallic
aggression and bursts of shadowy melancholy. Fitting of
the title, Flirting with Death is a dark album, following
a loose theme of personal wars and struggles pushing
the soul and mind closer to the edge. The disc begins
with death, as against a wall of strings, “Funeral for a
Lie” observes an ended life, its separation from pain,
and the emotional wreckage left behind. It leaps into the
pummeling “Kick Your Body Cold,” where patience is
wearing thin and the game is getting old. The explosive
“Wither, Bleed and Scream” savagely addresses
domination and possession, while the disco beat-
powered “Pick My Bones Dry” ponders head games. In
perhaps the disc’s darkest moment, the ballad “Another
Day” explores inner demons and suicidal struggles. The
clarity and focus of Megan Edison’s voice convincingly
sells the set’s dark themes, as her performance is full and
steady throughout. The band throttles with velocity and
precision, with the mix allowing them to bare their full
teeth while retaining the dark melodic tones. Writing
Off Tomorrow strengthens their musical identity on
Flirting with Death, raising the bar on their creativity
and intensity. (The EP can be obtained through the
group’s website,www.writingofftomorrow.com.)
CLOSE TO CONSIDERATION - CONSID-I-
RATION (no label) Formed nine years ago when the
members were young teens, Close to Consideration has
evolved their unique fusion of reggae, funk, jam, punk
and ska. Their latest CD, Consid-i-ration, mixes all of
these flavors into a punchy, catchy blend over ten tracks.
Singer/guitarist
Chad Wright,
drummer/singer
Austin Weaver
and
bassist/singer
S a m H u g
generate often
infectious song
hooks, and mix
up tempos ,
chords and
rhy thms to
br ing those
hooks to life. Wonder and hope inform much of Consid-
i-ration’s lyrics; the reggae-driven disc-opening title
track is philosophical and ponders direction in life, while
the funkier “Uncontrolled Flow” muses about creativity
and freeing one’s mind. The group ponders a pot bust on
the darker reggae of “Probation Song,” and offers a
hopeful tone on the relaxing R&B-flavored “Floating.”
Close to Consideration fires their ska/punk chops on
the playful “Yabba-Dabba-Do” and the disc-closer
“Chee-Woah,” and generates some Rolling Stones-
flavored hard rock on “Counting.” The group delivers a
spontaneous vibe and feel with their performance,
executing with a go-for-broke attitude but displaying
instrumental tightness. Chad Wright demonstrates a
fast-firing, freewheeling singing style that serves the
material well, occupying a middle ground between Bob
Marley and Anthony Kiedis. Recorded in an auditorium
at York College, Consid-i-ration has a cavernous
resonance to it, yet the components of Close to
Consideration’s mix sound clear and distinct. Wright’s
vocals could stand to be more prominent in spots, but
overall this is a good-sounding set. Close to
Consideration’s lively, carefree approach makes
Consid-i-ration a fun and rewarding listen, and suggests
that this group’s live show may offer a similar sense of
adventure and spontaneity worth checking out. (The CD
can be obtained through Close to Consideration’s
Reverbnation page, www.reverbnation.com/ctcnation.)
PA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE CD REVIEWS
Send your CDs & Recordings
for Review to:JIM PRICE
1104 S. Catherine St.
Altoona, PA 16602
CDs reviewed by Jim Price
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 25
The Professor continued...
numbers from their four-song EP such as “Irish Pride,”
“Lead Sled,” “Tale of a Sailor” and “Bar Fight,” and
introduced newer tunes such as “Beer Run,” “Family”
and “Chase the Snakes.”
Pure Cane Sugar also visited McGarvey’s in recent
weeks. The vocals and harmonies generated by Kate
Twoey, Natalie Race and Molly Countermine are
always incredible, backed by stunning guitar work from
Junior Tutwiler and precise and often complex
rhythmic passages laid down by Daryl Branford and
Bob Hart. Besides their obvious musical skills, Pure
Cane Sugar has the knack for not only crafting
infectious original songs, but turning cover material into
their own distinctive flavor. The group pulled off a fresh
and invigorating take on Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog”
that stripped the song down to its bare blues roots and
reconstructed it into a whole new entity far removed
from the Zeppelin version! Pure Cane Sugar also
served up musical sweetness with inventive versions of
The Band’s “The Weight” and a freewheeling medley
version of Buffalo Springfield’s “Mr. Soul,” plus
original song favorites like “No Regard,” “Get a Leg
Up” and “My Favorite Song.” audience requests and
more.
The new mach edition of the Chris Bell Band is now
operational, and I caught them in action last month at
The Arena in State College. Long established as a blues
guitarist and singer, Chris has now expanded his
repertoire to encompass a broader roots and Americana-
based sound. Flanked this night by guitarist Brian
McHugh, drummer Ben Leaper and bassist Jaco
Gassler, Chris delivered hard-edged country and
Americana, southern rock, original tunes and more.
They did multiple songs from Chris’ latest CD “Bell
Countyline” such as “Take it Outside,” “No Big Deal”
and “(That’s How) Country Girls Do It,” along with
numbers from Jason Aldean, Allman Brothers,
Blackberry Smoke, Lynyrd Skynyrd and more. Chris
demonstrated a gritty singing style and his guitar work
dazzled; he and his band attacked each song with vigor,
and took many of the tunes on freewheeling, intense
jamming joyrides. See the Chris Bell Band when they
perform outdoors at Lemont Village Green on July 10.
Also at The Arena, I caught the hard-rocking
doubleheader of Big Bear Chase Me and Inside Out
early last month during local skin/body art business
Ikonic Ink’s second anniversary celebration. I arrived
during Big Bear Chase Me’s set; the group has changed
guitar players since I last saw them, with Arena sound
engineer Steve Shutt now playing guitar, joining
bassist/singer Adam Zimmer, singer Brian Storm and
drummer Adam Rider. Big Bear Chase Me had the
party going pretty well with their blend of ‘90s-era and
modern hard rock favorites; performing numbers from
Fuel, Silverchair, Tool, Rage Against the Machine, and
even breaking out a song I’ve not heard in ages,
Sponge’s “16 Candles!” Making their first Arena
appearance, Inside Out then slammed the lid on the
night with their powerful set, winning the Arena crowd
with their mix of heavy modern rock, metal and original
tunes. They did several songs off their “Unbreakable”
disc such as “Giving Myself Away,” “Taking My Life,”
“Inside of Me,” “Vampire Eyes” and “Sacrifice,” as
well as tunes from Three Days Grace, Seether,
Disturbed, Static X and more. Jim Bagrosky continues
to settle in well behind Inside Out’s drum kit, packing
thunder behind the crunch generated by singer/guitarist
Tim Frick, guitarist/singer Kolt Green and bassist Larz
Philip.
Half Tempted reliably continues to churn out the best
in classic rock. With guest Steve Oswalt singing lead
vocals during the group’s visit to Altoona’s Family
Pizza & Pub last month, Half Tempted struck up the
party with their classic rock mix, delivering a few
surprises along the way. Steve, guitarists/singers Ron
Dalansky and Jim Mincin, bassist Joe George and
drummer Shawn Gioiosa kept the dance floor busy with
tunes from Grand Funk Railroad, Tom Petty,
Steppenwolf, AC/DC, Queen, Scorpions, Aerosmith,
Kiss and more. The surprises included a version of Wild
Cherry’s “Play That Funky Music” with Parliament and
Prince side journeys, a version of Rick James’
“Superfreak,” and a dance floor-filling edition of Iron
Maiden’s “Running Free.”
This Albatross also knows how to throw the party,
evidenced by the good-time display I witnessed last
month at Altoona’s Belmar Hotel. Singer Autumn
Shiffler, keyboardist/guitarist/singer Paul Johnson Jr.,
lead guitarist/singer Phil “Philly Grooves” Wagner,
bassist Mike Stanley and drummer Les Beatty mixed
female-fronted rock and country hits with other classics
and a few surprises along the way. Autumn’s voice was
in fine form as she sang numbers from Blondie, Pat
Benatar, Scandal, Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt, Alannah
Myles and more. The group broke out versions of
Jefferson Starship’s “We Built This City” and “You’re
the One That I Want” from Grease, and kept the dance
floor packed through it all. This Albatross performs
during Central Blair’s Relay for Life event at Altoona’s
Mansion Park on June 12, and opens for Bon Jovi
tribute Bad Medicine at Altoona’s Railroaders
Museum June 19.
Other performers I saw recently included Felix & the
Hurricanes, launching the Belmar Hotel’s annual
anniversary weekend last month; and a variety of
performers at the weekly Tuesday Open Mic Night at
D’Ottavio’s Gran Sasso in Hollidaysburg including
Amy Yatta, James Lee, Ron “The Music Man”
Balestino, the Jailhouse Rockers, Playground
Hijinks, Phil Baskin, Dan & Warren Peters, Rich
Edmundson and 22 East.
News and notes: Bret Michaels launches this year’s
Alive at Five Concert Series at Altoona’s Railroaders
Museum on June 5, with proceeds helping out the Heart
Institute of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Jo Dee
Messina headlines this year’s Summer’s Best Music
Fest, happening June 6 in downtown State College. Big
Head Todd and the Monsters headline the
performance menu for this year’s annual AmeriServ
Flood City Music Festival, which takes place Aug. 7-9
at People’s Natural Gas Park in Johnstown; other
performers announced so far include J.J. Grey and
Mofro, Eric Lindell, Joe Grushecky and the
Houserockers, Eric Tessmer, Feufollet, Horseshoes
and Hand Grenades, Tree, Crew of the Half Moon,
Wolves in Sheep’s Clothing and more. Jeff Clapper is
retiring from his long run as bass player and singer with
Felix & the Hurricanes after July; the Hurricanes will
soon hold auditions for possible replacements. The
Backyard Rockers have added a fourth member, as Mo
Yon comes aboard to share lead singing and guitar
duties, plus play bass and sing backing vocals; Mo’s
first official performance with the group was during
Huntingdon’s Mayfest in late April. State College-based
indie musician and open mic host Harold Taddy is
leaving the area to relocate to the Rochester, New York
area.
Happy Birthdays to Greg Malec (Red Alert), Zac
Grace (Chris Woodward & ShinDiggin’), Jill Simanski
(Pistol Peg & the Beer Kegs), Kolt Green (Inside Out),
Norman Nardini, John “JT” Thompson, Zupe, Brett
O’Donnell (Untyed), Adam Pielmeier and Eric McCrum
(The Hope Fallacy), Jaime Dubetsky (Acoustic Stew),
Todd Alper (Bite the Bullet), Chris Verbano (Whiskey
River Panhandlers), Erika Marino (Shallow 9), Beth
Hoover (No Angels), C’Jay Castello (Chris Vipond &
the Stanley Street Band/C’Jay’s Music), Johnny Bayush
(Painted By Millions), Ernie Peterson (Southside
Strays), Ken Gray (Twelve), Luke Pfister, Chris Conrad
(Syrins), Ed Somerville, Kayla Feaster (Rhythm
Sharks), Bob Krebs (It Is Written), Ken Slovikosky
(Cottonmouth), Whitey Noll, Joan Shrenkle, (John &
Joan), Mike Holzer (Allegheny Ukulele Kollective),
John Ciccarella (Wreathbearer), Scott Imler, Mike
Holzer, Bryan Zerbee, Kira Burley, P.J. Kelly, Jason
Berardi, Tom Seidel and Bob Sr. (4D’s Lounge).
Please send correspondence and recordings to: Jim
Price, 1104 S. Catherine St., Altoona, PA 16602. And
if you’re into social networking, look me up on
Facebook or Google+. SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC!
Check out our website for more Hotshots...
www.pamusician.net
June, 2015 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE 27
BUSINESSCLASSFIEDS:WANTED: WE PAY CASH
for used guitars, amps,
effects, etc!!! Call Matt at
Cre te r Gui ta r Shop ,
Jonestown at 717-865-3677.
We also do guitar repairs and
have a variety of lessons
available.
WANTED: Vintage guitars,
basses, amps, banjos, etc.
Fender, Gibson, Martin,
Rickenbacker, Gretsch, etc.
Top dollar paid! Call Player’s
Exchange at 717-975-2385 or
stop by and see us at 225 S.
Third St. Lemoyne, PA.
Email: bslotus@aol.com.
THE BEST VALUE FOR
Y O U R R E C O R D I N G
DOLLAR: Celebrating our
30th year in business. Pro
Tools, HD3/Accel, 192k
Interface, 2 inch 24 track
analog, 16 channels of API
outboard mic pres, Yamaha
Maple Custom Absolute kit,
SWR 7 GK bass amps,
Marshall half stack, Fender
twin & Bassman guitar amps,
Hammond B-3, Yamaha C7
grand piano. Authorized Pro
Tool dealers. CD/DVD
duplication on site 3 CCC
Video Services. 5.1 surround
mixing. $300 per day.
www.datamusicsvcs.com,
Altoona PA. Phone 814-944-
2406.
RIGHT C O A S T
RECORDING: State of the
art vintage recording
environment with years of
experience and a long list of
s a t i s f i e d c u s t o m e r s .
www.rightcoastrecording.co
m Phone 717-560-1530.
WANTED TO BUY: Piano
sheet music. Call 717-250-
4798.
FOR SALE: Music Store,
complete stock and displays.
Moe’st Everything Muse 825
Ann Street, Stroudsburg, PA
18360.Call 570-223-6900
shop or 570-350-2962 cell.
DRUM LESSONS: Altoona
area. Drum lessons from Jim
Bagrosky. Any music or
songs . Beginners to
advanced. Any age. I can
come to you if needed!! Call
814-215-3541.
Please say, “I saw your ad in
t h e P E N N S Y LVANIA
MUSICIAN MAGAZINE”
DRUM LESSONS: Altoona
area. Drum lessons from Jim
Bagrosky. Any music or
songs . Beginners to
advanced. Any age. I can
come to you if needed!! Call
814-215-3541.
WANTED: Practice space for
Fridays through Sundays.
Sporadic weeknights after
6pm. 40-mile radius of
Harrisburg. One person.
Thanks, 708-776-3567 Kent
EQUIPMENTFOR SALE
FOR SALE: Peavey
Classic 30 112 combo Amp
Tweed, like brand new, paid
$650 will take $500. Leave
message 570-648-8092.
FOR SALE: 7 pc. 1977
White Rogers drum set, 3
rotos included, 3 cymbals all
stands, 1 snare, 1 Rock’n’soc
seat, both pedals, Paid
$3,800, Sell for $2,000 or
best offer. 717-303-4211.
FOR SALE: Marshall MA
series 100w Tube amp with
1960 top cabinet, nice combo
to play through. Also Peavey
Supreme 100 solid state with
Hartke four 12 cab. 717-303-
4211.
FOR SALE: Bose L1
compact PA. Beautiful clear
sound. Easily fills a church
or club. 35lbs. Great for
small or solo performers. Call
814-931-4905.
F O R S A L E : P o w e r
Conditioners 3 EQ Pro VLA
Crossovers speakers, Hollow
Spot Senheiser 421’s, rack,
cases, Yamaha Drums, mics,
cables and much more. 814-
692-2114.
FOR SALE: 2 Peavey
TLS4X 2 Peavey bass bins,
Road case PRWN 14x
Yamaha MG 16/4 2 Amps PV
2600, QSC, GX5 Lexicon
MX200 furman M-8 x 2
DBX223XL $3,000. Call
717-513-6671.
FOR SALE: Nice vintage
Rogers Drums with all
hardware of not, your choice.
I’m looking for smaller
cheaper set to purchase. Also
Amp cabinets for sale,
combos 717-303-4211.
FOR SALE: Vintage Five
piece Rogers Drum set; 3
Rogers cymbal stands, rogers
Hi Hat stand, Rogers bass
drum pedal, Rogers stool,
excellent condition, $1,200
firm. 717-737-8443 or 717-
315-8789.
FOR SALE: Elation Light
Show. Smokin Gunnz is
selling their light show 16 par
56s , 4, 415 packs, 1 board, 4
trees & cables. Ready to Plug
& Play. Call Bob 717-832-
6154. Asking $900 or best
offer only 2 years old we paid
over $1,900 new
FOR SALE: Tascam 380 24
track recording board with
V.U. meters, $500 717-627-
4800.
CLASSIFIED NOTES
continued...
28 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
FOR SALE: Mastering
cassette recorders like new,
$35 each. 717-627-4800.
FOR SALE: Acoustic foam.
Great for studio, control
rooms, stages, rehearsal
space. (4)sheets 2-3” thick,
54” square. $50 takes all.
610-488-0914
F O R S A L E :
Studio/apartment refrigerator.
Keep your drinks cold while
you rehearse! Small Sanyo
refrigerator. $50. 610-488-
0914
F O R S A L E :
Compressor/limiters. Aphex
720 Dominator II, DBX
266XL,Drawmer 241L.
Leave message. 610-488-
0914.
FOR SALE: Microphones.
(2 ) AKG C-391 B
condensers.
Excellentcondition, low
price. Bass roll off and-10db
attenuation. Includes clips,
foam windscreen, cables and
protectivecases. 610-488-
0914.
FOR SALE: Multitrack
recorders. Tascam. (3) DA-
88’s, (1) DA-38 and (1)RC-
848. Includes sync cables
w/balanced snakes, rack
cases and custom oakremote
control s tand. Leave
message. 610-488-0914.
FOR SALE: Multi effects
processors: t.c. electronics
M5000 w/digital options..
Lexicon LXP-5 w/MRC.
Leave message 610-488-0914
FOR SALE: DI box. ProCo
CB-1. $20
Leave message 610-488-0914
FOR SALE: Record video of
your band from the stage or
Front of Housesound board.
Attach any camera to these
unique CAMERA MOUNTS.
Leave message 610-488-0914
FOR SALE: DAT Recorder.
Panasonic SV-3500 in very
good working andcosmetic
condition. Includes power
cable, wired remote and
or ig ina l sh ipp ingbox .
Records at 44.1 khz. 610-
488-0914
FOR SALE: Mic stands and
tons of cabling. Mic cables,
instrumentcables, snakes
(RCA, ?”, XLR etc),,monster
speaker cables, balanced
EDCO to multi-pin etc.
Leave message. 610-488-
0914
FOR SALE: Hammond
Proline 860 Leslie, With foot
pre-amp and leslie 11 pin
cable, All in great condition!
$600.00 Phone 717-248-8739
Email: superstarr@hot-
shot.com
FOR SALE: Peavey LB1200
par 64 midi and dmx
controled lights with gels, 2
bars with 4 lights each. work
great $250 Ph. 717-248-8739
email: superstarr@hot-
shot.com
FOR SALE: 1 Pair of JBL
TR Series Tower speakers,
dual 15” subwoofers and
horn speakers $500.00 570-
765-2227 Don.
MUSICIANSWANTED
Keyboardist. 70’s 80’s up.
Funk Rock. “Silverhawks”
members new five piece band
“AURORA”. Have all
players, two sets. Weekly
Lancaster practice, bi-
monthly gigs. Warren (717)
286-3262.
WANTED: Lead Singer
Harrisburg. Auditioning lead
vocalist. old school heavy
metal band. Originals some
C o v e r s , m u s t h a v e
dependable transportation,
Pro equipment, serious
inquiries only!! 717-614-
9887
WANTED: Hard-hitting
drummer with experience and
good instinct wanted for
working band. Must be
willing to travel. Originals
and mostly KISS, Poison,
Crue, Joan Jett covers. Full
drum kit available. Call
Sharon 717-465-8119.
Se r ious Oppor tun i ty !
Clearfield, PA: “Apocalyptic”
metal project needs Drummer
and 2nd Guitar. Versatility a
plus. Influences: Sludge,
Black, Grind, Death…etc.
C o n t a c t S a i n t F r a n c i s
Apocalypsis. 814-205-4288.
WANTED: Music ians .
Drummer looking to form
original, instrumental group.
South central PA region.
Shannon
sdrummer@innernet.net 717
264-9951
WANTED: Frontman needed
for Full Time band, 21-30
years of age, Pop/Rock band
Covers and Originals.
30 PENNSYLVANIA MUSICIAN MAGAZINE June, 2015
SINGER WANTED: Wilkes-
Barre area male vocalist for
established party band
(covers). Please email a link
to some vocal samples email
ostrichhat@hotmail.com
WANTED: Looking for
players to jam with Lehigh
Valley blues rockabilly call
johnny suede 484-862-6513.
WANTED: Band based in
NEPA with published original
material and signed with a
major promoter; is currently
seeking a Keyboardist,
Vocalist and Guitarist with
vocal ability for recording
and concert venues. (Serious
inquiries, please) Dennis 570-
704-8131.
WANTED: Keyboardist witth
vocals for classic / original
rock-n-roll band: Full size
Hammond B-3 with 147
Leslie cabinet provided.
Rehearsal Space located in
Milton, PA for $20 per hour.
leave name, number, brief
message; We will return your
call 570-412-4312.
WANTED: Music ians .
Forming all original black
metal group. Seeking like
m i n d e d p r o f e s s i o n a l
members. Musical abilities,
image conscience. Drums,
bass and lead. Interested
gouls feel free to email, or
717-770-9621
DRUMMER WANTED: for
originals studio project. hard-
edged, melodic, progressive
rock. Electronic set a big
plus. Newer stuff is waiting.
guitarmandan@comcast.net
WA N T E D : LYRICIST
searching for an imaginative
lyrics writer to put his/her
words to my original music
compositions for studio
recordings. Dark, deep,
passionate.
guitarmandan@comcast.net
WANTED: Singer and
guitarist wanted for all
original band._We play
rock/hard rock._Must have
equipment, transportation,
and experience. Practice in
Manchester (York area). 717-
712-2008 or _717-418-0020.
WANTED: Frontman /
Vocalist Lancaster-based rock
band seeking frontman/
vocalist. proficiency with
rhythm guitar and / or harp a
plus. Larry after 5pm 717 252
2616.
WANTED: Working Band
Looking For Lead / Rhythm
Guitar Player & Keyboard
Player For Autumns Golden
Oldies. Positive Attitude And
Team Player A Must. Call
Randy @ 570-898-6888
WANTED: Piano Player/
Keyboardist for original rock/
folk/ blues project. Singing
and songwriting a plus.
Contact
Nelsoncl36@hotmail.com or
717-813-5158 for details.
WANTED: Musicians. All
f e m a l e r o c k b a n d
Streetwalker is reforming in
Pittsburgh , seeks female
bass , drums. over 21. Must
have talent. Your equipment.
We have agents and
promoters waiting 717-364-
5660.
WANTED: Music ians .
Seeking lead guitar, drums,
bassist, keyboards. All
original black metal group.
Prefer experience, will deal if
none. Male or female
Image attitude dedication a
m u s t . 7 1 7 - 7 7 0 - 9 6 2 1
dsadler131@gmail.
WANTED: Music ians .
Original goth metal band
seeks male or female Drums,
keyboard, lead guitar, bass.
Dedication and image a must.
Type O Nightwish Moonspell
D i m m u B o r gir.
dsadler131@gmail. 717-770-
9621.
WANTED: Lead guitarist
wanted for working Central
Pa rock band Disorderly
Conduct wanna make some
money and have some fun
dcscotty666@yahoo.com or
call Scott 717-318-1725
WANTED: Lyricist seeks
composer: Many songs, many
genres, rock, rap, country.
Need set to music. E-mail me
at dunlap8631@aol.com. Bob
MUSICIANSAVAILABLE
AVAILABLE: Classic rock
l e a d v o c a l i s t i n
Northumberland county
available, many years of
stage experience. I have live
video available, contact:
frontman_classic_rock@yaho
o.com
AVAILABLE: Keyboard
player all styles to sit in with
working band. No startups.
Call Dean 570-784-2689
email docfrear@gmail.com.
AVAILABLE: Keyboard -
Piano player, Danville area,
well seasoned can also sing
some lead. Can sing
harmony. Also can play left
handed bass . Working
situation only, any style
Joe 570-356-2390.
AVAILABLE: Guitarist
between York and Lancaster
Counties. Primarily into hard
r o c k t o m e t a l .
1986Stratocaster@GMail.Co
m
AVAILABLE: Guitarist
playing old out-dated
material but doing it
extremely well. Looking for
same playing out, heavy
rehearsal time. I’m not
i n t e r e s t e d i n t h a t
arrangement. 717-303-4211.
AVAILABLE: Male vocalist,
excellent range. Some rhythm
guitar skills. Best at singing
50s-60s oldies rock and roll
or 80s-90s country songs.
Carlisle-Harrisburg a r e a .
717-533-5263
AVAILABLE: Rock Vocalist.
Kevin Dubrow, Robert Plant,
Bon Scott, Layne Staley type
voice. Rhythm guitar skills
also. Prefer established
original or cover. HBG area.
Reply:
planithe@comcast.net.
AVAILABLE MUSICIAN:
Playing 35 years lead, slide,
and acoustic guitars. Solid
lead or back up vocals if
needed. Solid personal stage
e q u i p m e n t . S o l i d
transportation and D.L.
Playing Married, clean cut,
semi retired with lots of time.
Please no heavy, punk or hard
rock. West York, Haover and
Gettysburg areas. Please call
Dave Lanich. 717-817-2165.
AVAILABLE: Guitarist from
Harrisburg area looking to
put together band at my
location or yours. Weekend
rehearsals only. Covering
70’s I0’s material. Easy stuff
to start. 717-303-4211.
What we Offer YOU for YourMarketing Investment:
• 12,000 Copies distributed in Major Clubs,
Music Stores and Malls throughout the state(that’s 12,000 FLYERS out there WITH YOUR
NAME on them! People collect each issue)
• Link to www.pamusician.netWE SCAN YOUR AD ONTO OUR SITE
and place a link from your ad to your website or
myspace (over 10,000 hits and more per month!)
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will share them on our Timeline as well.
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GET YOUR FANS and NEW FANS to the show.
• Puts Your Phone Number & Website at the tips of club owners & fans.
You have the talent, you have the band,
the equipment, the CD, now you
just need to let people know.
Let us help you.... 717-444-2423
USE ‘the paper” that the Music Industry USES!
m a g a z i n e