Author: audioeclectica

Band Of The Week: The Pink Slips

Ever since I saw them open for Alice In Chains, I can’t stop listening to The Pink Slips. Their show was impactful and full of great rock n roll energy and it left me wanting more. The Pink Slips have defined their sound as a fusion of synth-pop, punk, dance, and vintage rock n roll. I’d say that’s a pretty spot on description. Fronted by the very dynamic and forceful Grace McKagan (aka Grave), along with Desi Scaglione (Guitar), Keenan Bevans (Drums), Charlie Anastasis (Bass), and Trent Peltz (Keys/Backing Vox), this five piece is fast becoming a band that is decimating stages and audiences.

The bands debut EP entitled Trigger, is a welcome addition to the rock world. These songs have lush choruses and riffs and rhythms that make you want to get up and move. Because the bands influences stretch from the likes of Iggy and The Stooges and David Bowie to Bikini Kill and Blondie, it’s no surprise to hear them embrace their “pop” side, yet they do it without losing their “edge.” When you hear a songs like “Danger,” “Gimme,” and “Hello Heaven” you can really hear both sides of the above.

As I mentioned when I saw them live, I was totally taken aback. Their live show is tight and full of energy. So much energy that The Pink Slips will have you in a frenzy when their set ends. It’s a refreshing thing in today’s music climate to have a band like The Pink Slips out there brining that ferocious rock energy back to the youth. The future is bright for this band, and I can’t wait to see what’s to come.

The Pink Slips- Trigger EP:

The Pink Slips- Trigger (Video):

The Pink Slips- I’m Ready:

The Pink Slips- Animal:

By: Brian Lacy

Album Review: Clutch- Book Of Bad Decisions

Consistency is one of the biggest things about the longevity of an artists career. There is one band in particular that have not only carved out their own path but, have also been one of the most consistent rock bands over the last 20 or so years. That band is Clutch, and just like their name, when it comes to putting out a new album, they always make it count. Their new album, Book of Bad Decisions, continues along that path. This album stands up with other classics in their catalog like their self titled, Blast Tyrant, Pure Rock Fury, Robot Hive/Exodus and Earth Rocker.
Book of Bad Decisions is a real rock album through and through. There is all the elements you’ve grown to love about Clutch over the years like, the stoner rock, bluesy side, psychedelic tinges, metallic parts, and a slew of crunchy riffs and rhythms. One thing about each Clutch album that makes them all unique is the bands ability to explore different tones and styles without it taking over and changing their blueprint. Songs like ” Gimme The Keys,” “Spirit of 76,” “How To Shake Hands,” “In Walks Barbarella,” “Sonic Counselor,” “Ghoul Wrangler,” “Paper and Strife,” are classic Clutch, doing their style to perfection. Other songs like “Vision Quest,” “Emily Dickinson,” “Hot Bottom Feeder,” “H.B. Is In Control,” and “Lorelei,” are great examples of Clutch exploring different avenues but not straying too far that they can’t have it connect back to their sound.
A couple other things about Book of Bad Decisions that are worth noting is how vocalist Neil Fallon’s lyrics resonate. It’s almost as though he’s a new generational beat poet like Allen Ginsberg was in his time. Neil’s lyrics not only paint a picture but the realism in them provide the listener with picturesque vibe while listening. The other thing is the bands choice of producer. Working with Vance Powell (Red Fang, Jack White, Arctic Monkeys) is a very intriguing choice but not surprising given Vance’s love of using vintage equipment. Before working with Vance, Clutch spent time on touring and testing out these songs on audiences. This gave the songs a different life and they sound crisp and raw.
If you’ve never heard Clutch before and Book of Bad Decisions is your first foray into the band, this is one hell of a great place to start. This has all the elements of the band and it’s done in such a way that captures the real essence of a band. Almost 30 years into their career, Clutch show no signs of slowing down or calling it a day. They still seem inspired and with an album like this, there is no stopping them.
Overall Rating: A

Gimme The Keys:

How To Shake Hands:

In Walks Barbarella:

Hot Bottom Feeder:

Soundtrack Only Songs: The Smashing Pumpkins- Drown

The year is 1992 and the Seattle music scene is exploding. Director Cameron Crowe has made a film that tries to encapsulate that era of Seattle with his film Singles. While the film is a bit hit and miss, there is one thing about the film that stands out, it’s soundtrack.

We all know about the inclusion of Pearl Jam, Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Mudhoney and Chris Cornell. There is one song in particular on the soundtrack that has always stood out to me. That song is “Drown” by The Smashing Pumpkins. The song debuted during the tour for their debut album and was written not long after that record was released. “Drown” became a moderate radio hit in mid-1992 and gave the band significant exposure just before work commenced on their follow up album Siamese Dream. It’s worth noting that the song was also released on the band’s official greatest hits compilation album Rotten Apples but, only the abridged version was included. “Drown” was considered for the Pisces Iscariot album but William Patrick Corgan decided to not include it. The other night, when I saw the Pumpkins live, I finally got to hear this masterful song in its entirety and it left me in awe.

The Smashing Pumpkins- Drown:

Live Review: The Smashing Pumpkins at The Forum

Over the years I’ve developed an interesting relationship with The Smashing Pumpkins. One one hand I’ve thoroughly enjoyed their albums and on the other, I’ve been less than impressed with their live shows, until now. The previous three times I’ve seen The Smashing Pumpkins, were not that great at all but, on this evening that I saw them, they put all those old thoughts and feelings to rest. The Shiny and Oh So Bright tour is more than a spectacle, it’s a right of passage and a sense of realization of a band that has always been at the forefront of alternative music.

As the lights dimmed and the curtain opened just a tad, out walks William Patrick Corgan (he no longer goes by Billy), armed with an acoustic guitar, he starts strumming the chords of “Disarm.” What a way to start the show. Then a quick pause to allow the other members of the band join on stage as they blast off with “Rocket.” Already after two songs, my mind is blown. I’ve been waiting years to hear these songs. As the show went on, more and more favorites of mine were played like “Siva,” “Rhinoceros.” “Drown,” “Thirty-Three,” “Soma,” “Eye,” “Hummer,” “Cherub Rock,” and “Muzzle.” Of course there were the quintessential staples that were played like “Zero,” “Tonight, Tonight,” “Today,” “Bullet With Butterfly Wings,” and “1979.” One thing that made this night even more special was the inclusion of so many deep cuts like “Try, Try, Try,” “Mayonaise,” “Drown,” “For Martha,” and “Blew Away.” Even their new song “Solara” sounded superb. The production for this show was top notch as well. The videos playing behind the band were pretty trippy and drenched with different emotions to accompany the songs played. Even their cover of the Led Zeppelin classic “Stairway To Heaven” was outstanding.

This night not only proved that The Smashing Pumpkins are back and better than ever but, it showed that real artistry is still alive. 30 years into their career, the Pumpkins, have shown that their songs stand the test of time and for the most part, their fan base is still intact, just waiting for the next great album from William and company. I will say that having Jimmy Chamberlain and James Iha back in the band really does make a difference. They have a distinct feel for how they play these songs and they really come to life with them on stage. Jeff Schroeder on guitar is a perfect addition to this group. Having been in the band since the Zeitgeist album, he too has a really great take on how to play these songs. Lastly, the addition of Jack Bates on bass was stellar. He brought a subtle yet dark eerie vibe to the low end that really complimented these songs well. Plus he’s the son of the legendary Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order so, it’s without a doubt that he understands the proper tone.

I came in not knowing what to expect, and left the show completely blown away. The 3 and a half hour set didn’t feel like it was that long. Every aspect of this show was spot on. William sounded great and better than ever. Personally I can’t wait to see them again. What a night and setlist to remember forever. Thank you to The Smashing Pumpkins for delivering one hell of a show and playing so many of my favorite songs.

The Smashing Pumpkins Set List:
01) Mellon Collie and The Infinite Sadness
02) Disarm
03) Rocket
04) Siva
05) Rhinocerous
06) Space Oddity (David Bowie Cover)
07) Drown
08) Zero
09) The Everlasting Gaze
10) Stand Inside Your Love
11) Thirty-Three
12) Eye
13) Soma
14) Blew Away
15) For Martha
16) To Shelia
17) Mayonaise
18) Porcelina of the Vast Oceans
19) Landslide (Fleetwood Mac Cover)
20) Tonight, Tonight
21) Stairway To Heaven (Led Zeppelin Cover)
22) Cherub Rock
23) 1979
24) Ava Adore
25) Try, Try, Try
26) The Beginning Is The End Is The Beginning
27) Hummer
28) Today
29) Bullet With Butterfly Wings
30) Muzzle

Encore:

31) Solara
32) Baby Mine (Betty Noyes Cover)

On The Rise: Vein

There is a band that is out and about right now that is decimating audiences where ever they play. Their debut full length is leaving a lasting mark in the heavy music circles. And the best part is they are still so young. I’m talking about the band Vein. This is one hell of a band and they deserve your attention.

Vein formed in Boston, Massachusetts in 2013. Their music takes bits and pieces from metalcore, hardcore, punk, and a hint of early nu-metal. Their debut album Errorzone, is one of 2018’s most acclaimed albums. The album in no way sounds forced or out of place. You can tell that each member of the band has studied their influences and without trying to duplicate what they’ve heard, Vein has managed to make something that sounds inspired. There is a real sense of urgency to these songs and album. It’s almost like a call to arms of the entire scene. The length of Errorzone is barely 30 minutes. That tells you that there is no letting up. The eleven songs on the album pummel from the instant the album starts to the end.

Errorzone is just the beginning for Vein. They are on to something that reaches beyond just the hardcore genre. The way they experiment shows that they have so much more to offer. It’s going to be really fun to watch this band progress over the years. Vein is here to inject their style into you and let it take over.

Vein- Errorzone:

Vein- Virus://Vibrance:

Live Review: Alice In Chains at The Palladium

How do you put into words a feeling that comes over you when you see a band that is truly amazing? Not to mention still being speechless about what you saw. Last night at The Palladium in Hollywood, Alice In Chains came though town like a tornado and left the town in shambles after their magical performance. I’ve now had the pleasure of seeing this incarnation of the band seven times, and each time only gets better than the last. Alice In Chains are not only living legends but they are also the epitome of what a truly great rock band is all about.

As the lights dimmed down and Sean, Mike, William and Jerry took the stage, you could already sense that this was going to be a night of epic proportions. Starting the night off with “Check My Brain” was a perfect choice to get things going. Then the quick follow up with “Again” just about set the audience off into a frenzy. Next up was the new single “Never Fade” from their most awesome new album Rainer Fog. This song was absolutely stellar live. It’s going to be one of those that will be in their live set for the rest of their career. All the classic songs like “Them Bones,” “Dam That River,” We Die Young,” “No Excuses,” and “It Ain’t Like That” were top notch. Certain ones though like “Down In A Hole” and “Nutshell” were seriously spine tingling. I still have chills just thinking about how amazing those songs sounded. William DuVall is a gem. He really brings the songs to life in his own way without tarnishing the legacy of Layne Staley. William absolutely inhabits the older songs with such precision it’s beautiful. Through the rest of the night songs like “Red Giant,” “So Far Under” from Rainer Fog were played along with “Man In The Box,” “Stone,” and “Hollow.” Their encore even was outstanding. Coming out with “The One You Know” and moving into “Got Me Wrong,” holy wow! Ending the evening was “Would” and “Rooster” which featured a special guest, Robby Krieger of The Doors. Just thinking of the moment when Jerry announced Robby was joining them on stage, is going to be one of those oh shit moments in my concert going history.

Playing before Alice In Chains was The Pink Slips. This band is a really solid rock n roll band. Led by singer Grace McKagan’s (she’s also the daughter of Duff McKagan of GnR), sass and attitude along with killer pipes made her bands blend of punk, new wave, and rock the perfect band to play before Alice In Chains. This five piece really delievered a great performance. They are definitely one of those bands that when you see live, you “get it.” They’ve got all the makings of a great rock band for the future. The riffs, rhythms, and prowess all blended together to make something really cool. I personally look forward to seeing The Pink Slips again and to watch them continue to kick ass.

What a wonderful evening. I couldn’t have asked for better. Alice In Chains is a powerhouse. William DuVall was not only the right choice to carry on the legacy of the band but, he adds so much to the band. I swear, there are moments when he’s singing the classics, that Layne’s spirit is inside of William. Especially during “Nutshell” and “Down In A Hole.” Holy shit… I can’t explain how amazing William sounds on those songs. Alice In Chains’ legacy is intact for generations to come. Their albums with Layne will always be classics and the new albums with William stand out on their own. I urge you to go see Alice In Chains. Not only will you have a brilliant time but, if you are a doubter about this new incarnation, your mind will not only be changed but, you’ll be blown away.

Alice In Chains Set List:

01) Check My Brain
02) Again
03) Never Fade
04) Them Bones
05) Dam That River
06) Hollow
07) Down In A Hole
08) No Excuses
09) Stone
10) We Die Young
11) Red Giant
12) Nutshell
13) It Ain’t Like That
14) So Far Under
15) Man In The Box

Encore:

16) The One You Know
17) Got Me Wrong
18) Would?
19) Rooster (with Robby Krieger of The Doors)

Songs From Albums:

Facelift= 2
SAP= 1
Dirt= 5
Jar Of Flies= 2
Alice In Chains= 1
Black Gives Way To Blue= 1
The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here= 2
Rainer Fog= 4

Review By: Brian Lacy

Photos By: Alisa Lacy

Cover Song: Cave In (The Cure)- Plainsong

I love Cave In. Every album this band has put out is tremendous. They have never been one to stay complacent with the music they write or the direction the want to go. Back in the year 2000, Cave In was asked to contribute to a tribute album to The Cure. They chose to cover “Plainsong” from the album Disintegration. The Cave In version turned out really cool and spaced out. Check it out!!!

Cave In (The Cure)- Plainsong:

Musicians In Movies/TV: Dave Grohl

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Dave Grohl is everywhere these days. From being in Foo Fighters, to his documentary projects, organizing the Cal Jam festival, as well as being a husband and father, how does he have the time. In addition to all that was mentioned he also finds time to make appearances in movies and TV. Check out these times Dave has made his presence known.

Tenacious D- The Pick Of Destiny (Dave as Satan):

Tenacious D- Tribute (Dave as Satan):

The X-Files (small cameo):

The Muppets (as Animool):

Dave also had small parts on Comedy Central’s Drunk History as well as the short lived show Ghost Ghirls, and Denis Leary’s Sex and Drugs and Rock & Roll.

Album Review: Alice In Chains- Rainer Fog

One of the albums I’ve looked forward to most coming out this year was the new Alice In Chains album. Since the band released the single “The One You Know,” I’ve been all sorts of giddy about this album. As the band put out two more singles, “So Far Under” and “Never Fade,” my excitement only grew stronger. So, when Rainer Fog was finally released, it instantly hit a note with me. Not just because Alice In Chains is in my top two favorite bands of all time but, because this album is truly astonishing. Now three albums into their Mark II version of the band, Alice In Chains shows no signs of letting their fans down or losing their knack for making great music.

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Great Music Videos: Metallica- One

It’s really interesting and crazy to think that the first music video Metallica ever did was on their fourth album And Justice For All for the song “One.” I remember seeing it for the first time when I was about four years old and thinking that this was awesome. This video was without a doubt groundbreaking at the time as well as responsible for the beginning of making Metallica a household name.

The video for “One” was directed by Bill Pope and Michael Salomon and it debuted on MTV, January 20th, 1989. Something else that is quite interesting about this video is that there were three versions made. The first (the longest, album version) contained scenes of both the band and scenes from the film Johnny Got His Gun. The second was simply a shortened version of the first, and the third, often known as the “jammin’ version”, lacked scenes from the movie (the song and video fades at the last bridge in the third version).

“One” was the perfect song and video to really introduce Metallica to households across the world. The video to this day almost 30 years later is still impactful and chilling, which is what makes it such a great video.

Metallica- One (from And Justice For All):

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