RED LINE CHEMISTRY – Mix and Match

Boy, are you about to be introduced to a treat. It seems I’m one of the few who respond to digital press releases according to some. What can I say? If I have the time I’ll check out the group. If I like them you better believe I’m going to help get them out to the world. Case in point: Red Line Chemistry. I think they’ve got what it takes to make it!

It started with a free downloadable single called “Dumb Luck.” In fact, that’s the kind of luck I usually have other than suck luck so I instantly felt a connection. As it turns out, this hard hitting group comprised of Brett: lead vocal, Andy: lead guitar, Dave: guitar, Tom: bass, and Mike: drums has exactly what I’ve been craving lately. The review of their debut album will tell you how much I enjoy the collaboration of meat strung riffs, rock out vocals, smashing song structure, deep pounding bass, sweltering leads and blistering drums. Lyrics that mean something are sprinkled in and BAM SUCKA! I was pulled in.

This unsigned group has already found home in front of gigs where tens of thousands of people have gathered. This is all in a short time span too. Some of their fast tracking record includes sharing the stage with Stone Temple Pilots, Seether, Puddle of Mudd, Shinedown, Seventudst, Saliva and more.

Instead of me going on and on I’ll head right into an exclusive interview. Maybe they’ll remember me when they make it big which, by the looks of things, won’t be long at all. Album review to follow interview.

THE INTERVIEW

Daniel/AR: Red Line Chemistry has not been together very long but success
is leaking like a baby’s diaper that forgot to be changed twice. When did
you first form and how in the world are you making so much headway?

Brett/RLC: We formed in August of 2004. I’ve been asking myself that same question. Ha ha! No we’ve just done the best we could to continue writing music and stick to our guns. The opportunities we are beginning to find more available can easily be attributed to having the patience to stick around and be ready to seize them. We are now surrounded by the Bulldog team and we have confidence in their ability to help us find our place out there.
We are all extremely driven and determined to make this a career no matter how much adversity we face. The new album Dying for a Living encompasses many of these elements that have driven us to push forward.

Daniel/AR: The name Red Line Chemistry is open to interpretation. However,
personally, you have your own take on it. What is that take?

Brett/RLC: For us it defines our intent in pushing it to the limit, while staying true to ourselves and to each other. A philosophy of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts. Like a big machine. We’re best friends, we’re family, and of course we fight like brothers.

Daniel/AR: Spending 8 months or longer making this debut project as perfect
as it can be is super exciting. I would imagine in the same way waking up
with Salma Hayek in my bed would be. Give is a brief emotional roller
coaster of your feelings for the album.

Brett/RLC: This album for me is really a cathartic release of all the pain, anxieties, and stresses that have affected me throughout this journey so far. A lot of the songs revolve around different fears…death, fame, loneliness, social evaluation…and so on. Don’t get me wrong. It’s been amazing and I never want to quit but as any musician knows, this big machine will eat you up and spit you out if you let it. The album is definitely a dark tinted ride with a few glimmers of comedy and hope here and there.

Daniel/AR: Do any of you still have day jobs? What are/were they?

Brett/RLC: Fortunately not. But I can tell you we all work harder at this than any other job we’ve ever had.

Daniel/AR: You’ve toured with some pretty rocking bands. If Freddy Krueger
came alive and slashed at you until you shouted out 3 bands you would like
to tour with that you haven’t yet, who would they be?

Brett/RLC: Avenged Sevenfold, Foo Fighters and Led Zepplin.

Daniel/AR: Were any of you a Freddy fan?

Brett/RLC: Of course. How could you not have a healthy childhood without watching those movies?

Daniel/AR: What would you think would be a sure fire way to kill Freddy K.

Brett/RLC: For good? Apparently, you just hire someone other than Robert Englund. Seemed to kill him pretty quick!

Daniel/AR: Do you have a bizarre dream that kept reoccurring? For
Instance, I usually dream about tornados and also urinating.

Brett/RLC: Yeah, I’m snowboarding and I fall off the mountain free falling for days and I always hit the ground tumbling through trees.

Daniel/AR: Dreams are essential in a well rounded focus group. Being as
famous as you are becoming so fast makes me think you had sure fire goals
and plans to make it. What are some of those goals that worked and what
would you suggest for up and coming artists?

Brett/RLC: Well we are far from famous at this point I think and we certainly have a long road ahead of us to accomplishing our goals. I’ll get back to you when I can piss without getting off the vehicle. ha ha! Some of our goals have included…

You can read the rest of this interview as well as see pictures and other national and independent acts in August’s issue of Alternative Revolt Magazine which is free to view online.

Daniel C. Morrison aka: the Hit Man

ALBUM REVIEW – Red Line Chemistry “Dying For A Living”

This album is scheduled to be released August 17th but so what? I got the review now and boy am I impressed. It’s as if Seether impregnated Alice in Chains. The harmonies are there, the melodies are glowing, the guitars are in control, the bass roars and the drums smash. I liked about half the songs right off the bat. This was one CD I listened to more than once and those that didn’t completely wow me right away warmed their way into my repertoire the more I listened to it.

Track 1 starts with some cool, eerie keyboards with a quiet guitar build letting you know that the album means business. This is good because after about a minute it slaps you with a fast paced, Seether inspired riff and my groove is on immediately. This is truly a fantastic way to start the album.

Track 2 hits hard as well and it’s this song that hits me with the Alice in Chains vocal comparison. I like it. It humps track 3 with a rhythmic riff that you don’t find much anymore. The lyrics are decent and I feel like I have a solid album in my hands.

Track 4 flips me off and smiles as it slows and the music pulls me into another listening dimension. So far, this is my favorite. Track 5 gets back to slappin’ me and my head hurts a bit as I am absorbed into its sound. Track 6 begins to sound like the other songs and is its least appealing to me, but still good especially when the harmonies come in. Then a soft acoustic presents track 7 and I get treated to a musical marriage of all sorts of cool instrumentation as it builds for over two minutes and presents a nice rocking ending.

Track 8 starts with a fun riff and then slams me in old Warrant fashion complete with a set of story lyrics. It stays heave through track 9 and the drums start punching me in the face without mercy on track 10. This song is bad ass with a bass line that gets me stoked.

Track 11 rounds this album out with an acoustic song that is beautiful with strings to accompany it. This is fantastic.

All in all, Red Line Chemistry’s debut album rocks balls and I am more than satisfied. This is a definite A for a debut CD. I look very forward to them making it to the Billboard Charts.

Daniel C. Morrison aka: Hit Man

MUSIC REVIEW FOR DESTROPHY’S DEBUT ALBUM

I can’t begin to tell you how elated I am to have been introduced to this band. To be able to review their album is a bonus and I am very pleased. They actually take time to write thought provoking lyrics, orchestrate strong vocal attacks, rip ears out with heavy riffs and manage to keep me from skipping the songs, for the most part. So let’s tear into their debut.

“Send In the Wolves” starts things off with a meaty beginning. Ari’s vocals have an older metal vocalist feel but only barely. He sings with a pair and I am hooked right off the bat!

It only gets better with “Reconnect” as it makes me want to get into a vehicle with weapons and blast away a nuclear wasteland.

When “The Story Of Your Life” hits my headphones I have to take them off and see if I am wearing a supped up, bass enhanced pair. Nope, just simple Panasonic. I put them back on and found my favorite chorus in a song in a long time. I have my favorite song. So far at least.

“Rise of the Overman” gives Ari’s vocals a deeper depth. Soon, I know, he’ll have to clear his throat.

“Arms of the Enemy” is now my new favorite. I feel like I’m in a movie. What is happening here?

Before I get too crazy “The Way of Your World” slows things up and I get to focus more on Ari’s smooth vocals. This is definitely a radio song. It’s a good thing too because it rocks and I can rest my bouncing leg a bit.

“Why I Hate Goodbye” comes next and has a nice mix of calm and heavy. Destrophy is trying to absorb me again. Luckily for them, they had me at track 1 so this sustains my mood and doesn’t sway me to think they’re done hammering out riffs.

I was right. “March of the Dreamless” speaks volumes both lyrically and content-wise. They’re taking me through a rabbit hole and I enjoy the ride.

I land at the bottom of the rabbit hole, finally, where the song “Pray” involves signature moves from the entire band. Each one has their own spotlight in this song. I’m now in a soundtrack, I know it.

“Monarch” comes on next and I’m still loving what I hear but variety in style is starting to decompose. It’s still awesome though.

In awesome debut CD fashion, “This Is Not My Life” ends it with a catchy bang. This final song ends the CD well but not as strong as it began. No worries though, I am very pleased.

So, to sum it up, this CD was an awesome experience. While the wow factor lessens slightly by the end of the CD I am still shocked at their style and uniqueness in a crowd of wannabes. I have no choice but to score this CD an A-. Now, I think I need a drink

Daniel C. Morrison aka: Hit Man

DESTROPHY – A Wonderful Catastrophe

So get this, four dudes from Des Moines, Iowa shows up at a concert as part of Taproot’s tour and slaps me in the face. Not just dudes, but humble, sweltering rockers who blew me away with their sound. I mean, wtf?

This foursome comprised of Ari, guitar and vocals; Phil T. on bass; Joe Fox on drums; and Bruce Swink is flat out awesome! It all started with Ari back in 2002 looking all over the state of Iowa for the best of the best to bring his musical vision to life and to bring his stage show to life and beyond. Check out their bio and then refrain from soiling yourself after reading the interview and checking out one of the best CD’s you haven’t heard yet.

BIO of DESTROPHY:

“Destrophy is the unstoppable 4 piece pop/rock/metal machine based out of Des Moines, Iowa. Officially launched in 2002 by producer and singer/songwriter Ari, who scoured the state and recruited only the most talented and success-minded musicians to bring his vision to the stage. The result is an impressive line-up featuring: Ari, guitar and vocals; Phil T. on bass; Joe Fox on drums; and Bruce Swink, former member of Roadrunner Records, Stone Sour and DownTheSun, on guitar.

Destrophy’s brutal and precise live show, coupled with epic songwriting and pop-oriented vocals continue to build and sustain the buzz surrounding them as one of modern music’s brightest contenders. Destrophy teamed up with Damon Moreno of The Inner Light Agency to work as the band’s manager. “I absolutely believe in Destrophy and I feel this will be bigger than any of us truly realize,” says Moreno. Destrophy has toured and shared the stage with OTEP, Drowning Pool, Korn, Disturbed, 5FDP, Stone Temple Pilots, Saliva, Avenged Sevenfold, Papa Roach, Soilwork, Buckcherry, and many more.

In the summer of 2009, Destrophy secured a multi-album deal with Victory Records. The band will release their worldwide debut album on Victory in the fall of 2009. President of Victory Records, Tony Brummel says: “Having staked their claim as one of the hardest working bands in the Midwest, this incredible 4-piece will be taking over the rest of the country (and the world) when their Victory debut hits stores this fall.”

Let me attest to the bad ass-ness of their debut album. After you read this interview get yourself a copy. You can also read my review of their performance in July’s issue of Alternative Revolt when they almost stole the show from Taproot where they scored an A for my musical preference. Review of their debut CD to follow.

THE INTERVIEW

Daniel/AR: First off, you guys completely took me by surprise when I first heard you. With such a name as Destrophy I really want to know the meaning behind the name. What other names came about?

Ari/Destrophy: I get this question a lot, as you can imagine! I asked my high school history teacher, a Greek friend of the family, to come up with a name. He came up with a list, and to be honest I don’t remember a single one, until he mentioned Destrophy. The gist of it is that it is based on a Greek word, meaning: something or someone that is not behaving as it should. Whether that means something is broken, distorted, or living counter-culture, it’s up to you! As someone who is currently living a life that is not what people normally do, I feel that I’ve grown into the name.

Daniel/A: How did Destrophy form and is 2007 credited as your intro to the music scene??

Ari/Destrophy: Destrophy was a high school project that never completely died. I would say that in 2002, it was rebooted into something close to what it is now, and in 2006 most of the current line up came together, and again a change in sound that is what we are now.

Daniel/AR: I found that somewhere in the letters of Destrophy there is Port, Horde, Rots and Hope. What’s a few you found?

Ari/Destrophy: The only two important words are Destroy, and Destro (G.I. Joe). All other words are meaningless.

Daniel/AR: If Thanksgiving dinner included three bands you would love to tour with, who would they be?
Ari/Destrophy: Metallica, Sevendust, and Danzig.

Daniel/AR: Speaking of Thanksgiving, what is your ultimate meal ensemble?

Ari/Destrophy: Lots of turkey, veggies (no onions). Skip the pie, you’ll thank me later.

Daniel/AR: Do you think music shaped dessert dishes would be cool or cumbersome?

Ari/Destrophy: I’m sitting thinking, “what is the shape of music…” Seriously you blew my mind.

Daniel/AR: A question a lot of people always want to know: Who are your influences not just musically but also as inspirations or role models?

Ari/Destrophy: Hetfield and Mustaine are pretty much solid frontrunners for most influential guitarist/vocalist. Henry Rollins is the man. Danzig is a just slightly shorter version of the man. Stallone, Herbie Hancock, Jesus – you know the soft spoken greats that everyone picks.

Daniel/AR: What were your day jobs before living the life of a starving musician on the road?
Ari/Destrophy: I was an art teacher.

Daniel/AR: Starving is rough and many have enjoyed the worth of a Ramen Noodle dinner. There are 2 servings per pack you know. What is your favorite way to enjoy Ramen Noodles and what flavor?

Ari/Destrophy: My bass player Phil likes spicy chili flavor and he eats them raw. No joke. Crunch crunch crunch.

Daniel/AR: Touring with Otep and even Type O Negative was awesome, I’m sure. Did they eat Ramen noodles?

Ari/Destrophy: Not in broad daylight…

Read the rest of this interview and check out cool pictures of the band and other great artists at AltRevolt.com



Daniel C. Morrison aka: Hit Man

DISTURBED – Get Down With the Sickness

I feel like an ass because sometimes I call “the Sickness” album “Issues.” That’s only because both Korn’s “Issues” and Disturbed’s “The Sickness” were my drugs of choice during some rough times in my life when I was having issues. Aside from that little anecdote I was graced by God to have made contact with Warner Brothers Records to get an interview with front man David Draiman. Sure, I got nervous and if you listen to the mp3 file you’ll know it. However, why shouldn’t I be? Over 11 million albums sold and a crap load of singles, not to mention how precious his time is. Sure, I found him to be business minded like most people say but I also got into his sense of humor and he’s a cool guy.

Disturbed1.com/about has their bio and it truly is interesting. I’ll save page space and get on into the interview but I highly recommend you read the bio to get more history on this bad ass band. Their new album “Asylum” is slated for an August 31st rele

ase date. Now let’s get rollin’!

THE INTERVIEW (transcribed from audio file)

Daniel/AR: For the first question tell me what you are most excited about in the life of Disturbed right now.

David/Disturbed: This upcoming tour is what I’m looking forward to most. It should be a huge experience. We are putting together the production for it right now. The lineup is all of our friends.

Daniel/AR: What are some of your keys to keep going and getting stronger in the time Disturbed has been around?

David/Disturbed: We’ve just been really consistent. We’ve always been good at delivering what our fans expect from us. As long as we have that relationship going we’ll stay strong. (laughs)

Kimmi/AR: I first saw you in high school. It seems we have a bit of the same background. When did you want to be more like you are now as opposed to what you were then and how hard was it to break out of that mold we grew up in?

David/Disturbed: It wasn’t really that difficult to break out of. There really wasn’t ever any other option for me, to be perfectly honest.

Kimmi/AR: How old were you when you first got into rock music?

David/Disturbed: Oh, I don’t know. Maybe 8 or 9 years old.

Kimmi/AR: And into singing?

David/Disturbed: Since I was a little boy. Also, maybe 5 or 6.

Kimmi/AR: Are you in touch with anyone from back in those days?

David/AR: Here and there. A couple people. (laughs) Few and far between. People grow in different directions and I don’t live in the same city anymore. It gets difficult when you get older, unfortunately.

Kimmi/AR: How do your parents react?

David/Disturbed: They are very proud. They weren’t but they are now. (laughs)

Daniel/AR: (laughs) They weren’t at first?

David/Disturbed: No. I left being a successful Health Care Administrator to try and be a rock star so they were not happy at all. (laughs)

Daniel/AR: It’s a different kind of medicine now.

Kimmi/AR: You were already in the health care business when you decided to go on?

David/Disturbed: Yes.

Kimmi/AR: In what respect would you guys say you changed and in what respect would you guys say you stayed the same?

David/Disturbed: I don’t really think we’ve changed much. We’re still the same people, hang out in relatively the same places, still do relatively the same things. I think we live in nicer places now, thank God. (laughs) What changes more is everybody else. Because of what happens to you people around you change. All of a sudden, their true colors become your evidence after a little while.

Kimmi/AR: How does that affect you music-wise? Does that go into your music?

David/Disturbed: Oh yeah, there’s some of it on this record coming out at the end of August.

Daniel/AR: You all also reissued “The Sickness” this year with a couple B-Sides.

David/Disturbed: Yes, to celebrate our ten year anniversary of “the Sickness.” Remixed, re-mastered.

Daniel/AR: For the songs you picked as B-Sides, what made you decide to put those on there?

David/AR: They were from that era, that recording session. They were used as foreign releases at the time. Maybe some of the people that never got wind of it can get it now.

Daniel/AR: That’s love right there, Disturbed love. I don’t know if you are asked this much but the Queen Of the Damned soundtrack is one of my all time favorite albums. The song you sang on that album rocked! Though you didn’t write it, what was that experience like, working with Jonathan Davis and the others?
David/Disturbed: He’s awesome, great guy, very talented, and an incredible songwriter. It was an honor and a pleasure to work with. He’s a sweetheart of a guy and a friend of ours.

Daniel/AR: If you were a vampire would you be more or less Disturbed?

…

Read the rest of this interview and check out cool pictures of the band and other great artists at AltRevolt.com



Daniel C. Morrison aka: Hit Man

“DATE: AUGUST 25, 2010

FROM: KRISTINE ASHTON-MAGNUSON

AUTHOR RICK FLORINO CONTINUES
DOLOR NOVELLA SERIES WITH

Dolor: Arielle │Book III

OUT SEPTEMBER 27

Sam’s wife Arielle just left him, but that’s the least of his problems…

After sitting through three meetings in his downtown Dolor law office,
strange things begin happening to this lawyer.
One of Sam’s clients nearly bleeds to death
in some sort of ritual right before his eyes,
however the evil doesn’t let up…

Author Rick Florino continues his Dolor mystery/horror novella series with Dolor: Arielle│Book III, out September 27 via New American Deities. Arielle–the third in a series of ten stories about the creepy town of Dolor–will be available for only 99 cents on September 27, 28 and 29 at www.BookOfDolor.com. From September 30 through October 31, 2010, Arielle can be purchased for the discounted price of $3.99. As an introduction to the Dolor story, a free download of Lila and Chrissy, the first two books in the series, is available at www.bookofdolor.com/signup.html and hard copies of the books can be purchased for just $4.99 each.

Florino–author of Dolor: Lila | Book I, Dolor: Chrissy | Book II, Do The Devil’s Work For Him, founder of Ruin Magazine and Editor-In-Chief of ARTISTdirect.com–offers his thoughts on Arielle: “Arielle represents everything that I always wanted this series to be. The mystery behind Dolor begins to unravel further within the landscape of a very dark and twisted story. The narrative itself examines so much in short space—from the breakdown of a marriage to the breakdown of a mind. Then there’s a deeper and more demonic aspect to Arielle as well that’s reminiscent of ’60s and ’70s horror, yet the characters all come to life vibrantly. Fans of the series will get to learn a little bit more about Caleb Taylor, and they’ll also get a closer look at what’s really happening underneath the surface of this town. Arielle also features a musical aspect that will come into play much more as the series progresses. In some ways, Arielle closes out the trilogy that is the first three books. However, it also leaves everything open for the next seven to come. This is a very special book, and newcomers and previous visitors to Dolor will be equally possessed by it…I still am.”
Florino moved to Los Angeles to pursue his dream of working in the entertainment industry after graduating from Boston University Magna Cum Laude at 19 years old. He began his career at New Line Cinema and freelancing for magazines such as Metal Edge, AMP and Lollipop. Constantly writing, he cultivated a unique style that was clever, vivid and highly eloquent. That style would fuel his 2006 creation, the bi-monthly hard rock publication Ruin Magazine. In 2007, Rick became an editor for ARTISTdirect.com, where he conducts interviews with A-list film and music talent for exclusive features. His words have also appeared in publications including Inked Magazine, BPM Magazine, Revolver, Kerrang!, Hit Parader, LAX Magazine, Shockhound.com, Craveonline.com, Bloody-Disgusting.com and many more.

His first book, Do The Devil’s Work For Him, was released in June 2009. In support of the book, Rick was featured on No Good TV with members of Guns N’ Roses/Velvet Revolver, System of a Down and Devildriver discussing the text. He was also featured on FOX News. He released the first book of the Dolor series, Lila, in October of 2009 and followed with Dolor: Chrissy in February 2010.
Here’s a sample of the critical praise for Dolor: Chrissy and Dolor: Lila:

“Rick Florino is a writer that can be compared to Stephen King…He was put on this earth to tell stories and that is exactly what he is doing.”
–Dana Feldman, Examiner.com, March 13, 2010
“A unique blend of macabre writing and graphic horror imagery. An addictive story line leaving you anxious for more to come.”
–Raphael Shlosman, VampireFreaks.com, January 21, 2010
“…when I see an indie book series out, like this Dolor, I stand up and take notice…This second book in the Dolor series is not only a fun read, but its a fantastic and twisted look into an entirely new world! I highly recommend it.”
–Matt MacNabb, BookLegion.com, February 17, 2010
“No sophomore slump with Dolor: Chrissy | Book II…heavy horror elements are involved–heavier than those that came into play in Lila…the steps he’s taking with this ambitious project are sure-footed.”
–Rod Lott, Bookgasm.com, February 24, 2010
“…a gritty series of illustrated novellas about tragic characters, fantasy, and horror…Rick Florino’s ability to write tight convincing dialogue, plot, and intrigue is exceptional…This is not your typical graphic novel or horror novella, the Dolor series drags a reader in from the first page and tells a full story in limited time.”
–Jessica Bohatch-Easton, MetalExiles.com, March 2010

“…strange, dark and witty…I couldn’t put it down and when I was done; I wanted nothing more than to have the next installment in my hands…”
–Sarah Boger, BandVibe.com, February 20, 2010

“Lila makes for a damn good read. It’s creepy in spots, and madly melancholy in plenty of others. Rick Florino clearly understands the sensitivity behind the content, and manages to siphon frightening reality from the idea…outstanding piece of fiction.”
–Matt Molgaard, Fangoria.com, November 16, 2009

“Horror fiction has put a few cities on the map: Castle Rock, Serenity Falls, Orangefield. Add Dolor to that list…It’s easy to get caught up in Florino’s tale, not only because it adheres to storytelling brevity, but also because it has a rock ‘n’ roll sensibility to it, dishing out details of drugs, sex and violence.”
–Rod Lott, Bookgasm.com, November 2009

“A heartbreaking, horrifying and honest examination of a damaged psyche, true violence, drug addiction and love unreturned…a horror masterpiece…”
–LAX Magazine, Winter 2009

“If the rest of the volumes are even half as good as Lila, we’re in for a huge treat…A great start to what appears to be an even greater series…”
–BC, Bloody-Disgusting.com, December 5, 2009

Dolor: Arielle │Book III…How much farther will you fall?
About Dolor
Dolor is a creepy little town that you won’t be able to leave. It’s the kind of place you can’t forget. It’s the kind of place where anything can happen. It’s the kind of place where evil doesn’t just die. It’s the kind of place that nightmares are born to live forever…

In October 2009, Rick Florino opened up Dolor to the “real” world with his first novella Dolor: Lila | Book I. At the beginning of Lila, FBI Agent Jeffries goes to Dolor to investigate a fire. The town’s been burned to the ground. One lone house stands—charred to Hell on the outside, but fine on the inside. Within those walls, Jeffries finds ten small diaries. Each diary is written by a different denizen of Dolor, delving into some sort of darkness. The first diary is Lila | Book I.

Enter the world of Rick Florino’s Dolor, you’ll never be the same. Then succumb to the tales of Chrissy, Arielle, Decker, Cassie, Olivia, Orestes, Lucia, Sage and Helen. Nightmares are guaranteed.
www.BookOfDolor.com”

Daniel: Louisville, KY, have you found a competitor for the Kentucky Derby Festival?

Louisville, KY: Yes Daniel. In fact I can prove that the Forecastle Festival upstaged the Kentucky Derby Festival.

Daniel: For Real?

Louisville, KY: Yes and the first time I did it was in 2005. Who’s your daddy?

Ok, so this was a fake conversation but that fact is true. If you’ve never heard of the Forecastle Festival it’s a shame. According to Outside Magazine, the Forecastle Festival is “One of the top 15 Outdoor Festivals of 2009.” Even SPIN Magazine named Forecastle as “One of the Top 101 things to do in America.” It started in 2002 as a free show that cost less than five hundred dollars to put on. Volunteers in the local music community agreed to put on the event at Tyler Park in Louisville, KY and drew a crowd of hundreds. The success of the warm vibes and pleasant experience brought the attention of JK McKnight. It was McKnight who brought the local art community into the event. Quickly, environmental organizations wanted in and BAM SUCKA, July 19th, 2003 the Forecastle Festivals moniker was established: Music.Art.Activism®
The Forecastle Festival was expanded on greatly each year, eventually gaining major sponsors allowing it to be a big deal in the life of anyone who enjoys variety in entertainment. The festival got so big that Tyler Park was not large enough. Between 2005 and 2010 the Festival was relocated 3 times finally finding adequate space on 15 acres of Louisville, KY’s Waterfront Park, thanks to the help of the country’s oldest, largest, and most experienced operators of live theatre and music, Nederlander Entertainment .

Forecastle Festival is a 3 day event that boasts an eclectic mix of music, art and environmental activism. Basically, this means that you’re going to witness a variety of bands from all over the nation on 3 different stages. It also means that you will experience bizarre shows of danger, crazy carnival like performances, marching bands, etc. that are famous from other parts of the nation. Another added treat is you can listen to guest speakers from environmentalists who will tell you the positive direction of going green by providing new study information, live demonstrations, and new facts and figures. Let’s not forget either about some pretty cool art exhibits, tattoo artists, outdoor club dancing, and a crowd of thousands upon thousands pouring in from all over the U.S. and even outside the states. There is so much to do at this amazing event that you nearly would have to clone yourself and share the mental connection and imagery with your other self to experience it all. This is both its biggest draw and biggest problem.

On the plus side, an event like this is absolutely amazing with all it has to offer. The art exhibits are great, the people are friendly, the variety in various forms of entertainment including the nationally popular Cirgque Berzerk from California is awesome, and even the music scene has some variety. You can hear Bluegrass music, techno music, classic rock, folk music, alternative rock and it’s all done by flawless performers both locally and nationwide.

On the minus side you won’t be able to witness every show completely. This is a bummer because bands get missed out on, environmental awareness speakers get overlooked, and uniquely dangerous magic acts get missed by performers from all over. For my personal tastes I thought there were too many Bluegrass musicians for one festival but I understand why due to the nature of Kentucky’s music scene. Honestly, there could have been more hard rock and alternative rock that I missed simply because of everything to have to cover.

All in all, the Forecastle Festival is an absolute must if you enjoy just a fraction of what I told you about so far. Hearing new music, seeing new forms of entertainment, gaining education of the very important environmental issues, and making new friends from other states and countries is awesome! This festival allows all that and more. $150 for 3 days of this seems almost like a steal.

Now, I will tell you of my experience of the Forecastle Festival and grade it with a Second Opinion to follow from a female’s point of view via local photographer, Staci Scevers, whose photographs sprinkled throughout this article will help you get a deeper feel for this astonishing event!

SIDE SHOWS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ACTS:

There were bands and things I missed. Most of what I missed, being in a music magazine, was the environmental demonstrations. I am an enthusiastic person when it comes to going green and learning about the positive direction of the planet. I missed things like renewable energy, Dr Feel Fine’s “Cure-All” Puppet Show, the Flaming Lips documentary, a yoga workshop, local food production and Middle Eastern belly dancing which would’ve put me in a trance, I’m sure. I cannot give an honest grade overall for that since I only saw pieces but as previous boasting goes in other publications I would imagine they would have received an A.

I did get to see pieces of March Madness Marching Band, a very enthusiastic group of marchers that got into people’s faces and marched throughout Waterfront Park. I believe it was their costumes, constant smiles, and absorbing their costumed characters that scored high with the crowd. They got an A. The Outdoor Extreme Sports Park was cool to see but really, if you’ve seen one show of bike tricks, you’ve seen them all, in my opinion. I saw fascination in the small crowd around this graffiti decorated area so based on their looks I would bump mine up to a C+. Perhaps having to be so many places watered down my excitement for this so other fans would have given this grade even more points.

The Cirque Berzerk from California was an awesome treat. I score this an absolute A. You had a very entertaining, athletic group of performers doing Three Stooges type acts while bouncing around on trampolines and landing flawlessly on a high wall ledge. Then, one by one, female performers came out and did acrobatic things via a loop suspended in mid air, a silk cloth that reminded me of a spider weaving a web and then a combination. Then there was a theatrical scene of athleticism with a pair of men who displayed mild affection towards one another. All these acts were set to music so it was more like a theater production then a circus act. The finale was awesome as every performer came out doing their signature pieces while some of them blew fire from their mouths and such. Even the comical guy on stilts between acts joined in the fun. Excellent!

I also got to see some artwork that was unique. I met local tattoo artists who had some fantastic artwork on display. I also met some of the artists who worked on art displays for the Forecastle Festival. Very cool stuff.

THE MUSIC

This is where I’ll find disagreement I’m sure. I’m not a huge fan of country music. Gladly, there was none there. I’m not real fond of Bluegrass music but that’s what I would say at least 70% of the bands were; Bluegrass and Classic Rock sounding bands. Of course, it’s Kentucky so it was to be expected. I have no idea how Smashing Pumpkins fit into this festival. Their style, from what I could tell, were different than all the rest. However, as a live show with limited effects perhaps it was an easier blend. Let me reiterate that I didn’t get to see all the bands so there could have been some rockers out there I missed.

Now that I’ve said that I was pleasantly surprised by most of the bands I heard. I felt like maybe I missed out on something the last 15 years or so. Some of this Bluegrass music was pretty good. It wasn’t that oldies stuff I remember and it didn’t have that whiny feel that some of the Country music artists have. It was a different sound as if Bluegrass finally evolved. I particularly liked the 23 String Band. Those that did rock didn’t do it in Chevelle or Sevendust fashion or even Smashing Pumpkins fashion. They had a more Classic Rock sound or even a bit jazzy. Death On Two Wheels had my favorite stage performance and rock sound, like a new age George Thorogood. Company of Thieves had an awesome jazzy rock sound that made me smile. The first band on the East Stage on the first day of the festival could have easily been my favorite. They are called Kinetix and they rocked! Each of the bands I listed all get an A with the award for best East Stage performance, in my opinion, going to Death on Two Wheels with Lucero as a Runner Up.
The North Stage had the most diverse bands with some sounding like a meeting with Modest Mouse and the 60’s such as the Doloreans and IamIs who also reminded me a bit of an RPG soundtrack. Then you have local rappers with a style I would define as Disco Rap called Scanners. More Bluegrass music hit that stage with My Morning Jacket co founder’s band, The Raverra Colt, and also Arnett Hollow. You also had a style of rock in the vein of Marilyn Manson, but not. I wish this band, Straight A’s, didn’t have distorted effects on their voices all the time. My pick for winner of that stage out of those I saw perform? 23 String Band with The Raverra Colt as a runner up mostly because of the front man’s sense of humor.

The Ocean Stage was the dance stage and it was always hopping. While it was more a grass area with a booth covering the DF equipment it had some of the festivals finest hotties shakin’ their bodies. Also, most of the shirtless guys were in that same crowd. This is where all the DJ’s partied. A couple Electronica bands shared this stage such as Papadosio which got my Best Of award here. Not much else to say really. If you got a beat and lots of bass people are going to shake their change.

The Main Stage, of course, had the most popular musicians from around the country. This is where I spent most of my time. On Friday, things started off with Scott Miller and the Commonwealth. If you like bluegrass you will like this band. It’s not my cup of tea but the crowd loved it. While not super energetic on stage the emotion from the music to crowd was noticeable. I am not a huge fan of this style but live is always better than an album for first timers. Therefore, I would grade it a C while fans of that genre would probably boot it up to a B or even an A.

Drive-By Truckers was another band I thought was iffy. However, when I heard them play I was pleasantly surprised. I wasn’t disappointed in the least. They have a style similar to Scott Miller but different too. Without being annoyed I give them a B-.

Manchester Orchestra was next and boy was I diggin’ it. There sound is very cool and the lyrics were very intense. Even a guy in the crowd by me said that he came to the Festival to see them because he read the lyrics of some of the songs online and loved them. I concur. An A, Manchester Orchestra!

Headlining Friday was Widespread Panic. That crowd was huge. I don’t get into that kind of classic sounding rock much but they had some sprinkled musical pieces that really rocked. The veteran performers were in their mojo and although there wasn’t a high energy stage presence everyone was having a good time. I give them a B+.

Saturdays’ Main Stage busted out the gate with Modern English, a nod to back to the 80’s with added new stuff. Not too shabby at all. I give them a B as well as Umphrey’s McGee who followed them.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals was next and I was mesmerized by the vocal quality and pleasant mix of soothing rock. You must check them out if you don’t know them. An A!

Cake followed next and they were fantastic. The women drooled, the music rocked and the crowd was enormous. I score an A.

Devo came next and people went stupid happy. I do not like this strange band very much and will probably get slapped for stating so. But the costumes were top notch, their style immaculate and the crowd was beyond stoked. So my grade of a C because I am not a big fan will be bumped to an A because of stage performance and the people in the crowd loving it.

Bassnectar followed which was odd to me as it was the only DJ on the Main Stage. I didn’t think he belonged but this massive crowd shaking ass was incredible. Also, the light show and song selection was pretty damn good. This was an A and I heard people say it outdid everyone else, probably because the crowd was mostly older teens and 20-30 something’s.

Smashing Pumpkins finished the night with a bang. I read and was even told by some staff there how difficult Billy Corgan can be. For a shy guy who likes to make his image bigger than it is he surprised photographers by allowing extra photos to be taken. He even gave audience members high fives and made funny jokes. According to Jeff Asfahl, one of their biggest fans from Chicago, he was impressed. Was this real? It was plain to see that Billy Corgan really wanted to re-establish his career. I liked the energy on stage. He was great. The problem was the song selection. The crowd didn’t seem to really recognize a few and it seemed everyone was pissed that Zero wasn’t played. The crowd chanted it over and over but never did they play it. I would give them an A but for song selection and lack of Zero I will drop it to a B. We were the only magazine to get a photo of the song set list though. Score!

Sunday’s lineup was the most mild and the crowd didn’t get large until the evening. Joe Purdy did ok scoring a B. Dar Williams’ folk style received a B too because by that time I wasn’t hearing much variety in that style of music. Not her fault. She did talk a lot between most songs which was cool to hear the meaning but not so cool as it detracted from the flow of music.

I’d say my heart stopped when I heard the next band, Sara Watkins of Nickel Creek… .

Read the rest of this review plus see pictures and more at AltRevolt.com

Daniel C. Morrison aka: The Hit Man

One of the hardest working guys I know not only promotes several record companies and a number of artists but he also works for a very cool business, TheLiveLine.com. This company allows fans to call a number and listen to a recorded message left by an actual famous artist of their choice to see what the latest thing going on in their lives is. Not only that, but a fan can also receive a text by the artist of what they’re into or what they’re about to get into. To make it sweeter, sometimes the artist will answer the phone and talk to you if they’re super cool and not super busy. Want to know who some of these artists are? Scott Ian (Anthrax), Dez Fafara (DevilDriver), Burton C Bell (Fear Factory), Maria Brink (In This Moment), and many more.

Not only do they have an amazingly simple and effective idea for promoting businesses, their idea behind fan-to-artist mobile phone interaction is cool and unique which will probably be as important as society has made Twitter. Their press release sounds mighty inviting: “The website allows our talent to create AudioBlogs, and anyone can call them at a number we assign them for FREE. This itself is cool to be able to hear their actual voice, and interact with fans. Fans can even leave voice messages for the Artists, and you never know, the artist may just answer the phone and start talking to you! Every time an artist updates their AudioBlog, a text alert goes out.

Try it for yourself, and give Maria Brink a call for FREE: (877) 306-2742. Who is Maria Brink? The delicious singer of “In This Moment” who also was featured in Playboy.

TheLiveLine.com has an updated version which will go live very soon and you don’t want to miss out on this huge ordeal. You can see a glimpse now at http://www.theliveline.com

What interested me equally was a section they have called “Purgatory.” This is a cool concept where unknown artists get a chance to score a spot with the big boys on the site. Basically, an unknown artist tries to gain 1,000 fans. Until they do they stay in “purgatory” but once they get that number of fans they achieve a spot with the already-knowns. So, to get a bit more understanding here is an interview with someone who knows all about TheLiveLine.com, Scott Holmen.

THE INTERVIEW

Daniel/AR: The idea behind theliveline.com is very cool. It’s been tested for a couple years if my information is correct. What prompted the idea and how did it get moving so fast and successfully?

Scott/TheLiveLine: We were aware that the technology was available but mostly being applied to retail marketing. We approached our parent company with the idea of using their existing technology and applying it to the entertainment industry.

Daniel/AR: Tell me a typical scenario how a fan could benefit from joining.

Scott/TheLiveLine: In addition to getting updates from Artists IN THE ARTISTS’ OWN VOICE, fans on TheLiveLine have access to exclusive contests, promotions, alerts and access to our “Talent Family”.

Daniel/AR: What is the cost to join?

Scott/TheLiveLine: It is absolutely FREE to be a fan or an artist on TheLiveLine.

Daniel/AR: Tell me a typical scenario of how a business could benefit from this. Let’s say the name of the business was Envy Anna Jones or Eggshell White Castle.

Scott/TheLiveLine: The businesses that are coming alongside TheLiveLine see the value of several components that we produce. A business is able to access fans, via their mobile device, which is the most immediate and relevant way to reach their targeted demographic today. We are able to serve highly targeted text, voice and web communications on behalf of these businesses.

Daniel/AR: How would you compare this to Twitter which is what I thought of initially?

Scott/TheLiveLine: We are different than twitter in that we have incorporated an Audio component in TheLiveLine. On twitter, you can’t be too sure who is tweeting on behalf of an artist. Frequently, an administrator is generating the tweets. With TheLiveLine, you are HEARING your favorite artists voice SECONDS after they record their AudioBlog and are provided with a way to engage in 2-way communication with them.

Daniel/AR: When theliveline.com is complete what are all the great things one can expect from visiting it and being a member?

Scott/TheLiveLine: As we continue to build out TheLiveLine we expect to facilitate event based mobile experiences where we are at shows allowing fans to engage with the artists via picture 2 screen text to screen, voting, and providing mobile deals on merch, concessions, etc.
We will be able to provide fans and brands with highly relevant information that they will want based on some of the information that they request. For example, a metal fan will request and get information around metal music, metal merch, metal events, etc.

Daniel/AR: Your “purgatory” is a very cool idea. To what extent will theliveline.com go to make sure these artists get known?

Scott/TheLiveLine: We are huge proponents of the “up & comers”. We have already used our resources to book shows for some of these smaller bands. We truly believe that as Artists see a company in this “Dog Eat Dog” world that you so accurately describe come along side of them and help them with publicity, brand building, management, and bringing them into our network within the entertainment business they will reciprocate by providing TheLiveLine with new content, traffic and otherwise reciprocating. Scratching each others backs if you will.

Daniel/AR: Anything else you’d like to have everyone know?

Scott/TheLiveLine: We would love fan feedback on our TheLiveLine. We would love to know other bands that you would like to connect with through TheLiveLine. This site is meant to cater to the fans so I would hope that they would be generous in letting us know what they want. We will do everything we can to make this site the ultimate site for engaging with artists and gathering information about entertainment.

Daniel/AR: Even though this isn’t an artist interview I’ll throw you a famous question curve ball just the same. If theliveline.com dominated all businesses and could change the way people paid for services what would the change be, would Bill Gates care at all and would it affect the afterlife in any way?

Wow. That is a big question!

1. Ultimately , payment for services would be made by brands that see the tremendous return on getting targeted, relevant information in front of fans on TheLiveLine. This way, fans are only present with information/advertising that they would want to see and advertisers see a high rate of return on their advertising dollars because of this.

2. I hope that Bill Gates would care. If TheLiveLine is “dominating all businesses” we would likely come up on his radar in a meaningful way.

3. As to the afterlife, one can only hope that energy put forth in this life affects the afterlife but I am hardly in a position to speak to these mysteries with any definitive conviction. For now I’ll just trust that if we “do good then good will follow us”.

Daniel/AR: Thank you very much for talking a bit about this amazing concept. Being one for the major and not-so-major artists together in one place is worth telling people about. I wish you all the best.

Daniel C. Morrison aka: The Hit Man

OK, so we are featuring a band called Undercover Slut with a sophomore CD released by Offensive records. I instantly wanted to say f*** yeah! So I f***in’ checked them out. When I researched them a bit I was like, what the f***? This group f***ing knows rock and has the worldwide chops to prove it. Plus, they have the word “Slut” in their name so instantly it would cater to the perverts out in the world. I don’t know how I missed them before because they belong in the same category as Marilyn Manson, Slipknot and possibly Rob Zombie, all good music in moderate doses or even larger doses if you want that fix that said bands can offer.

To start things the f*** off with I’m going to use their unique bio which sums them up nicely.
“Welcome to the White Whore era!

UNDERCOVER SLUT (A.K.A. UCS) was conceived shortly before Y2K by Europe’s most hated/agent provocateur extraordinaire/controversial lead vocalist/lyricist: ‘O’, later joined by Divine (guitars), Drag (guitars), Dav (bass) & Fake (drums) in Paris, FR. Unpure, unsafe & untamed being the best way to describe UNDERCOVER SLUT politically incorrect lyrical content & white noise assault on international masses… Decadence & integrity. Hybrid but uncompromised. Superficial while being subliminal. A real violent cross between 21st Century technology, ‘77 punk rock nostalgia, creepy & spooky industrial sounds and a dirty f***in’ glamorous image. A vitriolic vision on today’s corrupted society! Terrified but terrorizing topics, all about real sick reality, sometimes astral projection, rape &/or romance, fornication then destruction, materialism via spirituality, way more paranoia & less blindness, etcetera…”

Basically, unbiased fun looks like. Their CD “Amerikkka Macht Frei” has these awesome credentials: “recorded at the Chop Shop and produced by master Chris Baseford (Rob Zombie, Tommy Lee/Motley Crue, John 5/Marilyn Manson, Genitorturers), assisted by Will Thompson (Rob Zombie) + uncensored “Shadow Song” video filmed by Dean Karr (Amen “The Price Of Reality”, Marilyn Manson “Sweet Dreams”). “Amerikkka Macht Frei” record sleeve photography taken by Dean Karr (Amen “Amen” & “We Have Come For Your Parents”, Marilyn Manson “Antichrist Superstar”, Slipknot “Slipknot”).”

In fact, if I keep going on and on about their success as India artists I’ll wind up quoting the whole myspace page of theirs so instead of that I’ll just put the link there now: MySpace.com/Undercover Slut. There you will read about the many different countries they’ve been to, dozens of famous magazines they’ve been in, the millions of fans they have and so on. I’ll let Myspace do just that and I’ll jump into bed right away with this awesome interview with Undercover Slut.

THE INTERVIEW

Daniel/AR: Let’s go ahead and get this one out of the way although I’m still curious, why name the band UNDERCOVER SLUT ?

‘O’ : UNDERCOVER SLUT is probably the most appropriate name for a band like this.

Daniel/AR: What other things would you do under cover?

‘O’ : As a kid, let’s say hiding razor blades in burgers, morphine in milk shake, enough for an instant OD. That kinda treat for bullies.

Daniel/AR: What about over the covers?

‘O’ : Anything you could think of…

Daniel/AR: How did the band form?

‘O’ : I formed it back in October ‘95 over here in Paris.

Daniel/AR: How did you pull off getting Chris Baseford to produce you?

‘O’ : Some kinda rags to riches story I guess. We started pre-production with that Brides Of Destruction producer, who happened to be a junkie. Everything went wrong til we entered the Chop Shop in LA to record drums. We finally ended up recording the entire album there with Chris Baseford (Rob Zombie, Tommy Lee…), who did a real fine job. “AMERIKKKA MACHT FREI” is definitely the bomb!

Daniel/AR: A question a lot of people always want to know: Who are your influences not just musically but also as inspirations or role models?

‘O’ : Personally I admire characters considered “extreme” such as Louis Ferdinand Celine, Charles Darwin, GG Allin, Wendy O Williams… and alot more.

Daniel/AR: It seems like there’s a lot of angst in your lyrics. Combine that with the way you portray yourselves and it seems like you would have a major influence with your outlook on things. What goes on in your mind when the lyrics come through?

‘O’ : I was born angry, that’s in my blood. Hang out with me and you’ll see me as a real nice person, educated, polite and pleasant to discuss with. But if you take the time to know me better, you’ll discover there’s alot of anger inside of me. Political issues, social issues, ethical issues. That world we’re living in is fucked-up and rotten to the core. Most important people who could change things for the better simply don’t give a fuck. That pisses me off real bad. I cannot write love songs I’m afraid.

Daniel/AR: Let’s try out some lyrics now with the Roses Are Red thing. I’ll go first.
Roses are Red, Violets are blue, I want to bang Latinas too

‘O’ : Bruises get red, rockets look blue, Obama ain’t got no clue!

Daniel/AR: Talk a bit about your overwhelming number of fans worldwide. For an Indie artists, that’s pretty impressive, in my opinion. I guess this would be cool to talk about when you first formed.

‘O’ : Back in those daze, there was no internet, just flyers, fanzines and word of mouth. I gave away self-produced demos to people whenever I was. When signed bands couldn’t draw enough kids at their shows, we were selling-out shows over here because of that manic street shameless propaganda. Nice souvenirs!

Daniel/AR: What image do you want to portray especially with the face paint?

‘O’ : That make-up is some kinda gang thing, like putting on a mask before entering a bank and robbing it…

Read the rest of this review plus see pictures and more at AltRevolt.com

Daniel C. Morrison aka: The Hit Man

Remember Santana? Remember how he collaborated with famous artists to sing his songs? Well, Team Cybergeist is a collaborated album/tour that does kind of the same thing but with hard rock and heavy metal members. And it works very well.

Dope’s drummer, Angel Bartolotta, decided to get this puppy together to give the hard rocking fans a real treat. Using an arsenal of greats from bands such as Stone Sour, Dark New Day, Sepultara, Saliva, Fuel, Kittie, Soulfly, KMFDM and many more this massive project received mass praise. Check out what some of these well known rockers have said about Team Cybergeist…

“Team Cybergeist is a killer project! The best musicians in the world of loud music on one record. I am stoked to be a part of it with many of my friends!” – Curse Mackey (Pigface)

“One of the best rewards for an artist, is to be able to collaborate with other artists that they admire. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a killer project.” – Virus (Dope)

“Working with Angel was really cool. Collaborating solely over the Internet was something I hadn’t done with anyone up to that point.” – Jason C Miller (Godhead)

“Working with Angel makes my head bleed – in a good way” – Robin Moulder (TCR, former-Jack Off Jill)

“Working on Team Cybergeist with Angel was great! It was so much fun to have someone say “do whatever you want.” Angel hands over full control to each person and I think that’s when every artist does their best work. Team Cybergeist is the ultimate Metal Unity!!!” – Tara McLeod (Kittie)

“I really support your project… I hope you like the result.” – Raymond Watts (PIG, former-KMFDM)

“I really like it and think it’ll turn out well… I’m pretty excited.” – Morgan Lander (Kittie)

How freaking cool is that? Well, to answer such a question Team Cybergeist released an 18 track CD called “How To Destroy Something Beautiful” in Japan back in November of 2009. It was #1 at the Tower Records listening stations its first week. That means it beat out Flyleaf, Slayer and Rammstein. USA gets a taste of a 25 track sensation with a 25 track, double-disc anytime now, with all songs being different from the Japan album.

To add more wow, Team Cybergeist was voted to play at 98 Rockfest in Tampa, Florida in April of this year. Team Cybergeist itself got 56% of the votes to enjoy an awesome show playing alongside Alice In Chains, Limp Bizkit, Puddle Of Mudd, Sevendust, Hellyeah, Evans Blue, Soil, Smile Empty Soul, and many others. Wanna see some highlights of Team Cybergeist’s set on the official Team Cybergeist YouTube channel? Go to www.youtube.com/user/teamcybergeist. Wanna see some fluffy kittens sliding down a slide? I’m sure it’s on YouTube somewhere too.

I was so excited when bass player, Sally Debauchery, asked me to check them out. I was blown away enough to contact Angel for an entertaining interview. In fact, you are about to read it. In another fact my computer monitor is only a 19 inch.

THE INTERVIEW

Daniel/AR: Wow. Angel Bartolotta. I remember my first live Dope experience, meaning the band performance. LRS Fest in Louisville KY many years ago. In fact, that was the first time I was ever hit in the head with a 20 ounce RC bottle. “Rage” was the name of it. I’m glad it was plastic. In fact, Rage is a good way to describe the adrenaline that pumped out of the band Dope. So my first question is: What happened to transition from being the drummer for Dope to the drummer of Team Cybergeist?

Angel: I’m still the drummer for Dope. And I’m not just Team Cybergeist’s drummer, I’m the founder. It’s my project.

Daniel/AR: Is Dope still together and, if so, are you still part of Dope?

Angel: Yes and yes.

Daniel/AR: Tell us a little about what life was like for you before Dope, during Dope and now.

Angel: I started playing drums when I was 12. Started my first band at 13. When I graduated high school, I joined the band Genitorturers. This was a huge opportunity for me because Genitorturers was one of my favorite bands. I did my first full USA tour when I was 19 years old. Since then, I’ve been a hired-gun drummer. When one band wasn’t working, I’d be out on the road with someone else. I’ve played drums for PIG (members of KMFDM), Crossbreed, Switched, The Undead (members of Misfits), Rikets, and many others. In October of 2006, I joined Dope. With these bands, I’ve toured Europe, Canada, New Zealand, been to Australia twice, and toured the United States more times than I can remember. Playing with Dope has been an amazing experience. Once again, I’m playing drums for one of my favorite bands. Touring with them is great, but the real high for me was when I got to track drums on the new album “No Regrets”. Right now, I’m still the drummer for Dope, I’m working on my Team Cybergeist project, and I still play with other bands here and there. I like to stay busy with music, both in the studio and out on the road.

Daniel/AR: I’m a fan of dreams coming true. I’m still waiting for Salma Hayek to appear in my room. How did you manage to get a dream cast of artists to collaborate with you?

Angel: I’ve spent most of my life on the road. I’ve met a lot of people and made a lot of friends. Team Cybergeist is basically just me bringing the music scene closer together. There’s no competitiveness or egos. We’re all writing and performing for the love of music. I found a team of artists who shared my feeling about this. Team Cybergeist should have been called “Angel And Friends”.

Daniel/AR: What is the meaning or inspiration behind the name Team Cybergeist? I’m guessing that it doesn’t have much to do with Germany.

Angel: The project started out as a solo thing. I was doing all of the music myself. I called it Cybergeist. When I started bringing in different musicians to collaborate with, it became more than just me. It became something bigger. So I decided to add the word “team” to the name. It makes sense. Most of the songs were written and composed using the internet. Cyberspace. Since the artists weren’t physically in a studio together, the word “ghost” or “geist” kind of fits into the picture. So there you go! Team Cybergeist!

Daniel/AR: October 13, 2007 a Limited Edition of “Radiation Romance” was released. Only 200 copies, is that right?

Angel: Yes, only 200 copies. It was my first release. A single with some remixes and bonus tracks.

Daniel/AR: Would that be the official year that Team Cybergeist came together?

Angel: I started the studio project in 2006. The live element came to be in 2009.

Daniel/AR: Will you send me an autographed copy of Radiation Romance?

Angel: If I had any left, yes. But again, they’re all gone. Only 200 copies, remember?

Daniel/AR: Did you see what I did there? Kind of rude wasn’t it?

Angel: It was worth a shot.

Daniel/AR: Can we still be friends?…

Read the rest of this review plus see pictures and more at AltRevolt.com

Daniel C. Morrison aka: The Hit Man