Show Review: Midday Records, 95.5 WBRU, & Naragansett Beer Presents: The Sweet Release, The Skinny Millionaires, The Brother Kite, & The Morgana Phase at Mardi Gras in Cranston, RI

95.5 WBRULast night (Friday, April 18) was another fantastic night celebrating local music for Midday Records, 95.5 WBRU, Narragansett Beer, and Mardi Gras MultiClub Presents: The Sweet Release, The Skinny Millionaires, The Brother Kite, & The Morgana Phase at Mardi Gras in Cranston, RI

The Sweet ReleaseThe Sweat Release kicked off the night and we can say that everything you have been hearing about The Sweet Release is true. Musically, they borrow from 70’s punk, hard rock, and some classic rock. Frontman, Austin Sheridan is a combination of Mick Jagger and Iggy Pop with a dash of GG Allin (without all the self-mutilation, defecation, and beating up fans). And we don’t say that lightly. Austin brings the sex, controversy and provocation, and one hell of a performance. When you see them you’ll either get it or you won’t. You’ll either love them or hate them. There is no in between.

10259706_844689025548644_5054199807491904484_nUp next were The Skinny Millionaires. Anyone who saw Mike O’Donnell play an acoustic set at The Midday Social and were expecting a similar sound with some drums, as we were, were in for a surprise. Mike gave an amazing performance at The Social but the full band brought more of a punk rock element to the table. They describe themselves as folk rock n roll and while their is plenty of rock there is also plenty of good old fashion punk. Especially in how they approach their backing vocals and harmonies. Pure bliss.

The Brother KiteThings shifted gears when The Brother Kite took the stage. Incredibly tight and absolutely beautiful. Last time we saw them was over at Fete Ballroom in Providence, RI opening for Civil Twilight. They’ve been around for some time and are just one of those bands that capture the beauty of local, independent music. Their sound is ethereal at times and rhythmic at others. As a musician watching other acts you often unintentionally zone in on the strengths as well as the weaknesses. There were no weaknesses. These guys are damn near flawless. Interesting and beautiful guitar work, extremely tight rhythm section, and vocals with harmonies that were spot on. I heard elements of Arcade Fire, Death Cab, and even some Cure (good Cure) in the lead lines of some of their older material.

 

The Morgana Phase95.5 WBRU were up last. These guys pull from post-hardcore with some punk/emo. It was definitely evident before they covered a Taking Back Sunday song that they were heavily influenced by them and bands like Brand New. They gave a very energetic performance, engaging the crowd and getting every last person in the venue up on their feet. Could not have asked for a better closing to the night

The great thing about events like this, other than the performances, is hanging out and getting to know artists. We spent much of the night hanging with Mike O’Donnell of The Skinny Millionaires, a man who is as sincere as he is polarizing at times. And while we won’t go into details, we want to publicly give props to The Sweet Release for their willingness to step up and do whatever it took to make the night a success and run smoothly.

The Brother Kite, Skinny Millionaires, The Morgana Phase, The Sweet ReleaseThanks to the BRU crew for coming out and giving away some great swag and for their continued support of local artists. Also, thanks to 95.5 WBRU and Narragansett Beer for sponsoring the event and their help promoting. Thanks to Mardi Gras for hosting these events and allowing Midday to bring in local artists. Also, thanks to our friends from Providence Night Out, 990Wbob.com, Downcity Armory, and The October Accord for constantly coming out to support local artists and our events.

One Hell of a Weekend… And it’s Just Begun

First and foremost, CONGRATULATIONS to The Rare Occasions. They’ll be moving on to the final round of 95.5 WBRU‘s annual rock hunt!

The Rare Occasions We headed over to The Spot Underground last night for the first semi-final event of the 2014 Rock Hunt. Both Here We Just Dream and The October Accord played amazing sets. But The Rare Occasions have definitely stepped up their game. They played a fantastic set last year in the Rock Hunt and still managed to top it this year. These guys have been on the rise and have obviously been working hard at it. They don’t even have time to enjoy their win as they are hoping on a plane Wednesday for a few SXSW tour dates. They’ll be back in the area in time for the Rock Hunt finals over at The Met.

We were pretty psyched this event was being held at The Spot. One of those venues where we are fortunate to call just about every staff member a good friend. Always great to have a few drinks with our pal, Josh, who keeps things running over there. But have to say, Joe Ferro is not as fun when he’s on the clock! It was definitely nice catching up with them and the WBRU crew. We also ran into the boys from Fly Kite Canvas. We may have to start an official petition to get these guys back together. Also, met up with George from Providence Night Out, Todd from Downcity Armory, and Nina from BB Entertainment. After the event, we all headed over to Dusk to catch Nymphidels and Viking Jesus.

Even with all the rushing around we, unfortunately, missed Nymphidels set. Grrrrr. We made it in time for Ants in the Cellar‘s and Resistor’s sets. Major props for Rob Duaguy for putting together this lineup. A great bill that drew lots of heads out even going up against the Rock Hunt kick off. Viking Jesus, of course, killed it. We say this every time but these guys are made up of some of the most talented people in the Rhode Island music scene. George Dussault was sick and still managed to play a beautiful guitar solo with his eyes shut. Literally. He even played it with the guitar behind his back. Show off!

Dusk is another venue where we always seem to run into so many good people. Our crew spent the rest of the night hanging with Rick, the owner; Marc Clarkin from Motif Magazine;  Kelley Bowman from 990WBOB, Dave from 13 Folds Magazine, and the boys from Torn Shorts. (Who, coincidentally, won last years 95.5 WBRU Rock Hunt). Some of the nicest cats you’ll ever meet.

Fun nights can also be exhausting nights. But no time for rest. Tonight we have our first official meeting for Music For Paws with Tracy & Shawn from VulGarrity and Chris Conti from Providence Phoenix. There are some great ideas being tossed around to raise funds and make this one hell of an event.

FlyerThen we’ll be at Mardi Gras MultiClub in Cranston, RI for Midday Records Presents: Dylan Sevey and the Gentlemen, Bourne, Daddie Long Legs, and Most Dangerous Men Alive. This is a great bill so I hope to see you there!

Tomorrow, (Sunday, March 9th) we’ll be heading over to Fete to pig out on some scrum-diddy-umptious treats for RI Food Fights 3rd Annual Great Cupcake Championship with  Providence Night Out and then we’ll be rushing over to The Spot to guest co-host Sully’s Cafe. Weld Square will be our guests. Good times!

Let the fun continue!

The Midday Social

The Midday Social

We’re excited to bring you the next Midday Social New England musician networking event! RSVP: http://www.facebook.com/events/519007461539822/

When: Thursday, February 27, 2014
Where: Platforms Nightclub | 165 Poe Street Providence, RI | 7:00 PM
This is a FREE event open to ALL genres.

Description:

Starts promptly at 7:00 PM | FREE | All Ages – All Genres!

The Midday Social is one of New England’s fastest growing music related networking events. These events have hundreds of attendees and representatives from the areas best radio stations, venues, magazines & publications, promoters, etc. including 94 HJY, 100.7 WZLX, 90.7 WXIN, 91.5 WMFO, 88.3 WQRI FM, 990WBOB, 95.5 WBRU, Unregular Radio, Limelight Magazine, Providence Phoenix, Motif Magazine, 13 Folds Magazine, Go Local Prov, Rock Karma Promotions, WARL 1320, The Steve Katsos Show, General Assembly, Firehouse 13/Fete, and many more.

This is an opportunity for musicians and industry professionals to make new connections and strengthen old ones. Bands/artists are encouraged to bring press kits and CDs. This event is open to ALL genres across New England.

ANNOUNCEMENT: 13 Folds Magazine will be releasing Volume 2 Issue 1 at this event!
——–

IMPORTANT INFO:
If your a musician or band that wants your music played over the house system during the event you need to hand in a CD to the DJ by 8:00 PM the latest. We cannot accept submissions after that time.

The event will start promptly at 7:00. Industry reps are encouraged to be there earlier in order to set up their tables.

Food: TBA
Drinks: Full bar with 4 dollar Narragansett Tallboys.
http://www.facebook.com/narragansettbeer

OTHER INFO:

Throughout the night we play a mix of music by bands in attendance and have a few acoustic performances. Closing out the night we have two live acts performing.

There will also be gear set up in the back room for folks who’d like to perform or just jam. The back room is open to anyone who would like to rock out!

Also, The Studio Cellar will be set up to do record a their upcoming Podcast and interview bands/artists.

YOUR INDUSTRY PANEL:

The panel will be moderated by John Laurenti of Boston’s Classic Rock, 100.7 WZLX.

Speakers:

Joe Graham – The New England Music Awards (Awards Show)

The goal of NEMA is to celebrate and recognize some of the areas best musical achievements. Every year NEMA will nominate over 100 artists and/or bands spanning a number of categories and genres of popular music in New England, including the coveted individual state awards which will select one band/act from each of the six states as its Best In State.

Chris Conti – Providence Phoenix (Publication)

Chris is The Providence Phoenix’s music journalist. In addition to his work for the Phoenix, Chris is very active in the local music community. He also often serves as a judge for 95.5 WBRU’s annual Rock Hunt.

Ashley Ann Goldberg – 90.7 WXIN & AAG Booking (College Radio)

Ashley is a DJ on Rhode Island College’s radio station, 90.7 WXIN. She also handles booking for the station and books events and shows on campus through her company AAG Booking.

INDUSTRY REPS:

COMMERCIAL/COLLEGE/INTERNET RADIO, PODCASTS & TV

100.7 WZLX – John Laurenti (Boston Commercial Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/1007wzlx

94 HJY – Steve Scarpetti (Commercial Radio) – Host of The Metal Zone & SoundCheck
http://www.facebook.com/94HJY
http://www.facebook.com/pages/94-HJY/173652036018247
http://www.facebook.com/scarpetti94hjy
http://www.facebook.com/TheMetalZone
http://www.facebook.com/SoundCheck94

95.5 WBRU – Brian Manfredi (Providence Commercial Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/95.5.WBRU

990WBOB.com – Pal & Crew (Internet Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/990wbob

90.7 WXIN FM – Nate Grist (Rhode Island College Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/RICRadioWXIN

Citywide Blackout – Max Bowen (Internet Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/CityWideBlackOut

The Dweezil Show – Phil Fleming (Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/dweezilshow

91.5 WMFO FM – Phil Fleming (MA College Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/WMFOMedford

The Steve Katsos Show – Mick Greenwood (TV Show)
http://www.facebook.com/stevekatsosshow

Dig Boston Radio – Max Bowen (Internet Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/DigRadioBoston

The Studio Cellar – Jim Shultz & Tom Ribeiro (Podcast)
http://www.facebook.com/TheStudioCellar

Sully’s Cafe – Daniel Sullivan (Podcast)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sullys-Cafe/124834113825

1320 WARL AM / The Tony Jones Show – Tony Jones (AM Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/1320WARL
http://www.facebook.com/tonyjonesshow

RI FREE Radio – Tony Jones (Internet Radio)
http://rifreeradio.org/
http://tunein.com/get-tunein/
http://tunein.com/radio/RI-Free-Radio-s213056/

The Franchise with Ferro – Joe Ferro (Internet Radio)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Franchise-with-Ferro/113661565349567

MAGAZINES/BLOGS/MUSIC JOURNALIST

GoLocalProv – Rob Duguay (Publication)
http://www.facebook.com/GoLocalProv

Motif Magazine – Marc Clarkin (Publication)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Motif-Magazine/132300650182666

Providence Phoenix – Chris Conti (Publication)
http://www.facebook.com/ProvidencePhoenix

Adam Parshall – Freelance Journalist

13 Folds Magazine – Dave Sorgman (Publication)
http://www.facebook.com/13FoldsMagazine

PROMOTERS/VENUES/TALENT BUYERS

DUSK – Rick Sunderland (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/DuskProvidence

Manchester 65 – Jay Palmeri (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Manchester-65/255123324628302

The Parlour – Greg Rourke (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/ParlourRI

The Red Room – Arianna Soto (Boston Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/redroom.cafe939

The Spot Underground – Nick Cardi & Tim Davis (Talent Buyers/Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/thespotunderground

182 Productions – Mitch Candiano (Promoter)
Books Gemstones & Blue-Shamrock (Lowell, MA), and others)
http://www.facebook.com/182productions
http://www.facebook.com/GemstonesBlueShamrock

Simons 677 – Simon Sarkisian (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/Simons677

Justin Sane – (Promoter)
Books Simons (Providence, RI), Fete, and others
http://www.facebook.com/Simons677
http://www.facebook.com/fetemusic

OTW Live – James Mclaughlin (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/OtwLiveMA

Ghost Town Entrainment – Matt Melia & Jarred Difazio (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/GhostTownEntertainment13

Fusion Bar & Nightclub – James McLaughlin (MA Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/FusionFoxboro

Firehouse 13 – Kristen Kohler (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/FHXIII

Fete – Kristen Kohler (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/fetemusic

Handsome Factory Entertainment – Martin Newell (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/HandsomeFactory

Presidents Rock Club – Martin Newell (Venue – Quincy MA)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Presidents-Rock-Club/318841611477619

The Sad Cafe – Eric (NH Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Sad-Cafe/248375354765

Rambudikon Booking & Productions – Mike Carp (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/rambudikonpromotions

Full Scene Ahead (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/FullSceneAhead

BB Entertainment – Nina McCarthy (RI Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/BB-Entertainment/418216788268364

P.E. Entertainment – Psycho Eddie (Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PE_Entertainment/1400186886905061

Ashley Goldberg – Booking for Rhode Island College shows
http://www.facebook.com/ashley.ann.100

Fat Cats Events & Marketing – Christopher Coderre (Promoters)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fat-Cats-Events-Marketing/422441717815820

Degenerate Booking – Lauren Peter Theroux (Promoter)

Platforms Nightclub – Davey Moore (Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/platfoms

Mardi Gras MulitClub – Davey Moore (RI Venue)
http://www.facebook.com/mardigras.multiclub

SERVICES/OTHER

Do617 – Adam Parshall (Web Service)
http://www.facebook.com/Do617

ArtistBomb – Mitch Candiano (Web Service)
http://www.facebook.com/ArtistBomb

Full Stream – KC Hoye (Multi-Media)
http://www.facebook.com/FullSceneAhead

Get Punched Clothing – Matt Beauchemin (Apparel)
http://www.facebook.com/GetPunchedClothing

Honor Roll Management – Marcus Ohanesian (Artist Development)
http://www.facebook.com/honorroll

Perfect Evolution – Marcus Ohanesian (WebDesign)
http://www.facebook.com/perfectevolution

EVO Audio Group – Brian Poillucci (Recording Studio)
http://www.facebook.com/evoaudiostudio

Turbulent Studios – Jim Shultz (Recording Studio)
http://www.facebook.com/turbulentstudios

Providence Night Out – George Nasser (Online Site)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Providence-Night-Out/169939416368623

Nate Grist – Photographer
http://www.facebook.com/nate.grist

Midday Records – Davey & Mark (Label/Promoter)
http://www.facebook.com/MiddayRecords

Tony Timpano – Entertainment Attorney
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-A-B-Timpano-II/137036846360629

24 Hour Music Project – Kimberly Ann
http://www.facebook.com/groups/264854810281228/

Tim Batty – (Artist)
http://www.facebook.com/groups/179399732147528/

RAFFLES:
If you would like to raffle off artwork, photography, Band swag, such as T-shirts & CDs, please find the raffle table. This is a 50/50 raffle where the artist will receive half of the proceeds and half helps cover costs of the event.

Raffles:

Get Punched Clothing (Bundle)

MORE TBA

STAFF:

Organizers: Davey Moore & Mark Charron of Midday Records/Satellites Fall
Sound: David Begin of Satellites Fall
Door: Kait Clavette
Raffle Station: Nina McCarthy of BB Entertainment
Extra Hands: Bryan Yebba & Ken Parker of Satellites Fall, Pat Keister of PALS

990WBOB’s Annual “Boobstock” at DUSK…

Boobstock

TONIGHT! (Saturday, October 26, 2013)

Help raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. 990WBOB.com‘s annual fundraiser, “Boobstock” kicks off at 8:00 PM at DUSK in Providence, RI. Now in its fifth year, “Boobstock” one of the area’s most important events. Tonights artists are 2013 95.5 WBRU Rock Hunt winners, Torn Shorts; Satellites Fall; the return of SexCoffee;The Stilts; and Kait Clavette. If you’re in the New England area this is one event you do not want to miss!

RSVP: http://www.facebook.com/events/1382879475281799/

New England Music At Its Best

The last few days we have had the honor of being around some amazing people and watching some of the greatest acts New England has to offer. We all knew we would eventually be giving a long winded recap. And as per usual, we will tag every band, promoter, venue, etc. in the hopes that even one person checking this post out clicks on them and discovers something amazing.

Let it begin:

CatsSaturday night we caught SixTenConnector, PALS and Viking Jesus – Kris Hansen over at Cat’s (Pawtucket, RI). We, unfortunately, missed The Skinny Millionaires set and arrived as SixTenConnector were performing. (It is rare that we miss the opening band but sometimes when commuting from MA to RI you just do not time things properly! Skinny Millionaires are a Rhode Island staple in the folk rock scene and we strongly urge you to check them out.) SixTenConnector were a few songs into their set and there was definitely a feeling of instant regret for missing out on those first few tunes. These guys have been in the studio for some time and for months we have been hounding them for tracks. After watching their set, we are about to break into whatever secret lair these recordings are hold up in (Indiana Jones style) and confiscate them for the good of the world. Seriously, this is one top notch rock outfit.

Viking Jesus took the stage next with a level of talent that is simply awe inspiring. It is something else to watch Nick Iddon (who also plays in Malyssa & The Liberators) on drums and George Dussault (who also performs with The Rhythm Room & owns/operates Galilee Productions) on guitar. And, of course, Kris Hansen’s vox were spot on. It was one of those sets that no matter how many songs they played it just was not enough. We were so impressed with their performance that if Midday decides to start a Management and Booking division, they will be the first door we are knocking on.

PALS closed the night out with a set of prog-rock like no other. PALS, fronted by Pat Keister, have been working the scene relentlessly. One of the few bands that promote as hard as we do. Needless-to-say, we have a deep respect for them. And that work ethic is paying off for them. We have seen them perform quite a few times and their set just keeps getting tighter and tighter. They have a confidence on stage that only comes from the experiences of tirelessly working the club and venue circuit. They have also been getting a lot of love from local radio stations 94 HJY and 990WBOB. Much deserved.

Another fantastic show brought to by BB Entertaintment. BB Entertainment is currently booking Cats (KCs Tap) in Pawtucket, RI and McNeil’s Tavern in North Providence, RI.

990WBOBMonday night we headed over to The Spot Underground on Richmond Street in Providence, RI for another amazing night of music and comedy brought to you by our good friends (and one of Rhode Islands biggest internet radio stations) 990WBOB. Every Monday they have acts perform for a series titled Mondays On Blast. The entire event is broadcasted live over their station. Mondays line up was pure, straight-forward rock and roll featuring I Was Awake, SixTenConnector, Pistol Shot Gypsy, and Those Alone.

The SpotThe Spot is quickly becoming a home away from home for us. Especially on Mondays for 990WBOB‘s events. Upon arriving to The Spot it is like showing up to a family gathering. A chance to see some of your extended musician family. This Monday night was no different. As we arrived the parking lot was full. Walking up to the door we spot some of the guys from Viking Jesus, Dave from 13 Folds Magazine, and the 990WBOB crew chatting with the guys from Torn Shorts and Northern Lands. After hanging outside for a few we ventured up to the club. One of the greatest things about walking into The Spot, besides that it is such a beautiful venue, is the familiar faces. We instantly spot Tim Batty, a local artist who sets up a table with his work every Monday night. We head to bar for our first round only to be greeted by Amanda (smile and all), who fronts Consuelo’s Revenge and also tends bar at The Spot. Before we can even make it into the main room to watch I Was Awake‘s set we are stopped by Todd Bowes from Downcity Armory and The Difference Engine. This packed venue was quickly becoming a who’s who of the New England music scene as we said hello to Kim of The 24 Hour Music Project, Nina from BB Entertainment, Rob Duguay of GoLocalProv/WBOB, Nathan from Vintage 1861, and then were surprised by our very own David Begin of Satellites Fall. A quick round of shots with the great Josh Willis, The Spots “Artistic Director”, and onto the show. 

I Was Awake kicked the night off with one energetic set. We have featured these guys on our compilation series in the past but had not had a chance to check them out live yet. What a way to start the night. Their guitar work brings a prog element to their sound but they walk the line of rock, prog and even indie/alt very nicely. And singer Chris Harvey gave one hell of a performance. It sort of felt like we were watching some of the punk/hardcore bands we all used to love, like Thursday. He has that sort of look and energy. Perfect for the stage!

Between sets we ran into even more of New England’s heavyweights. Al from ALMA MALA (formerly of Kanerko) & Alicia from New England Promotions, Jeff & Jodi from Echoes of Petra (an absolutely amazing band), Naomi from The Can’s Nots, Jess & Pat from Nymphidels, some of our favorite people walking this planet, and then looking across the room we see the familiar site of Lisa Gourley with her trusty camera in hand. Heading back into the main room for the start of Those Alone‘s set we spotted our good friend, Marc Clarkin, from Motif Magazine and decided to crowd his personal space for a while to watch the rest of the bands.

Those Alone took the stage next. These guys have more of a 90’s hard rock and grunge sound. Something they do very well. If you are a fan of artists like Alice In Chains than definitely check these guys out. They played a great set and we will be catching them live again soon.

Next, a break for some comedy. Doug Key brought the funny and introduced the lineup of some up and coming comedians. There are times the shift from music to comedy can be difficult. Not the case for this lineup. These comedians had the room in stitches from beginning to end.

Pistol Shot Gypsy were up next. They decided to play an acoustic set which initially had a few people in the room scratching their heads since this was such an energetic rock show. Energetic, straight-forward rock is where Pistol Shot Gypsy excels. And they were given such a great stage to bring it. Their fb posts often attest to their “tearing roofs off buildings” and “blowing holes in the sky” at their shows, well… none of that changed here. Not even the lack of electric instruments can keep these guys from rocking the house. Ronnie’s voice was as soulful as ever. A stripped down set will not even tame that beast. The man can hit notes that other vocalists only dream about. And their recent addition of rhythm guitarist, Steve, (formerly of Stealing Gadsby) fills their sound nicely. They played a killer set. (Oh, and on a side note, not sure if we had a chance to congratulate their drummer, Stevie, on his recent wedding. Congrats man!) PSG also handed me their new CD “Better Late Than Never” which I instantly gave away. I handed it right to Marc from Motif Magazine and politely said, “You need to review this”.

Last up were SixTenConnector. This time we caught their set from start to finish. What a perfect way to close out the evening. They killed it! Rock n’ Roll at its finest. Most the members of the band have been in previous hard rock acts from the area and we are thankful they are still going strong. It is a pleasure to watch these guys live. Their crew is made up of some of the nicest and most appreciative people in the scene. They have come out to every one of our Midday Social events. They will actually be competing on Friday, August 16th at Platforms on Poe Street in Providence, RI as part of the “Perform at The Midday Social” contest brought to you by Midday Records. They will be performing in front of our celebrity industry panel of judges which includes Scarpetti from 94 HJY (host of SoundCheck and The Metal Zone), Marc Clarkin from Motif Magazine, and Denny Rochefort from General Assembly. (A local promoter).

New England nightlife is good to us. These artists, bands, venues, promoters, etc. work extremely hard so we can get nights out like this. Let us never take that for granted.

Lastly… Joe Ferro is the [email protected] man.