Thursday, July 29, 2010

NPR's Frannie Kelley Gives GLG Insight to Women in Music, Including Gwyneth Moreland and Sara Radle

In March, NPR Music started a "project" called Hey Ladies Being a Woman Musician Today, that began from a conversation surrounding booking a showcase at SXSW. This idea blossomed into a beautifully massive and uplifting online database of female musicians. NPR Music now has this incredible collection of information for journalists, and fans of all types of music, that we can all benefit from.

GLG's Gwyneth Moreland of Gwyneth & Monko and Sara Radle were just two one of about 700 women, including Grace Potter, Exene Cervenka (of X) and Patty Larkin who responded positively and honestly to Hey Ladies.

NPR's Frannie Kelley talked to GLG about how the idea for this substantial adventure came to their attention. "As we were booking for the events NPR Music produced at SX this past year, which we do as a group," said Kelley, "all of us kept questioning the diversity of our lineups and looking to book more bands that employ women."

Kelley initially sent out seven questions to hundreds of female musicians. "We honestly had no idea what we would get when we started," said Kelley. "We tried to write the questions to be as open as possible, to leave room for the musicians to tell stories about whatever their most pressing concerns and biggest triumphs were." NPR asked ladies (such as Gwyneth & Monko's Gwyneth Moreland) a variety of queries ranging from "Describe your gear," "What type of music do you play?" and the hefty, "Do you think being a woman and a musician is different from being a man and a musician? If so, how? Was there a moment that made a difference clear to you?" That was the question that really got to how these women felt, and even though they all play different kinds of music, many had the same difficult feelings to admit.

Moreland responded proudly to the questionnaire: "It is a tricky subject, because I am cautious not to sound as though I am complaining....Even though there are so many professional female musicians, it is still such a male dominated industry. I feel as though sometimes it is more of a challenge for me to gain respect for my craft, than some other male musicians I know. It also seems like some folks find it easier to approach me after a show, as opposed to male band mates, to give me 'advice' or 'constructive criticism.' I have even been told by a fan that he would have really enjoyed the show better if I had danced a little. I told him 'I am a musician, not a dancer.' My male band mates got a real kick out of this! I also feel that I get a lot of positive attention because I am a woman...some of which I enjoy, and some of which is a little overwhelming."


From one genre to another, from different cities, instruments and backgrounds, NPR found a few overall conclusions that a great deal of the participating women voiced, very similar to how Moreland feels, "...The musicians say they feel pressure to outperform men just to be accepted as equals...," said Kelley. "But one of the most interesting was the power that seeing a woman perform on stage for the first time has on influencing musicians to start playing... Again and again, women said they didn't think they couldn't be a musician before they saw a woman play – they just didn't consider the possibility until then. I think that moment is so simple but transformative."

Hey Ladies also asked the women "Do you see differences between generations of women musicians?" Radle, had an inspiring answer to the changing eras of music. "The main thing I think about is the fact that women starting out today won't have to deal with as many struggles to be taken as seriously as their male counterparts," she said. "That's an awesome thing to realize."

NPR Music now has an amazing catalog of information on female musicians that can work as a database or encyclopedia for any fan or journalist to find out more about a specific singer or drummer, and how it can be discouraging, yet more so, how empowering it can be as a woman in music. "I was most surprised," offers Kelley, "and touched by how much thought and time the musicians gave to the form." And we are all thankful for that. Click Here to Read More..

Viper Room Hosts Leopold and His Fiction

It may seem quiet in the land of Leopold and His Fiction, but the San Fransisco band has just announced a show at the infamous Viper Room in West Hollywood, CA. On Thursday August 5th, Leopold will play a set as part of the Band Promote Showcase, which also includes Lady Sinatra, The Binges, The Glory Stompers and The Box Squad.

Band Promote is a boutique Promotions and Marketing firm focused on building exposure for some of the best in emerging bands. Founded in 1996 by Los Angeles club promoter and industry veteran, Mike Galaxy, Band Promote began as the very first music marketing firm to successfully utilize the internet to build awareness for breaking artists. Band Promote events have been held at all major music conferences, and are planning their 12th annual event at SXSW 2011.



Leopold and His Fiction
Band Promote Showcase
Thursday, August 5th
The Viper Room
8852 W. Sunset Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Cover: $10
Door Time 8PM
Click Here to Read More..

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Get Down and Get With It

Photo by Nicole Szalewski
Welcome GLG's latest Guest Blogger, our "Electric warrior with a soft side," (I can't stop using that quote), Neil Nathan. When Nathan decided what his guest blog would be about – bands he loves that the rest of us need to know about – the title hit us, Get Down and Get With It. The name of this column is also a song by the kicking glam rock band Slade. Perfect! And now...

Get Down and Get With It

"I Wanna see everybody get up off your seats, I want you to clap your hands and stamp your feet! And get down and get with it!"

This is hip-shaking, sweat-drenched Maximum R&B. The kind that gets jaded Williamsburg hipsters up and dancing, despite their cooler than thou exteriors. This is power-pop with lush vocal harmonies that stick to your brain like candy-coated crazy glue. This is rough and humble garage rock with a sensitive psychedelic swagger. It's OK to cry man. Now go beat down that asshole hitting on your woman at the bar. Just make sure you're wearing a finely tailored suit and your shoes and hair are perfect. That's right, perfect. This people, is The Above! And the debut album (self-titled) from these Brooklyn Mod sensations is the best 60's golden nugget this side of The Naughts! As lead singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer/engineer/director/debonair extraordinaire David Horowitz says at the onset of "West End Supermarket," "We gonna have a party!"

"I wanna see everybody get up off your seats, I want you to clap your hands and stamp your feet! And get down and get it!"

"Keep on rocking,"

Neil Nathan

quotes used without permission from Noddy Holder!

The Above-West End Supermarket

The Above-Bollywood Woman

The Above-It's Good

The Above-Special Somethin'

Find The Above on MySpace


The Above - "Don't Believe in the Light" from David Alan Horowitz on Vimeo.

Each Wednesday (well, you know how musicians are, so maybe every other Wednesday....) the GLG blog will treat you to a Guest Blogger pulled from our creative group of artists who have a lot to say. All the time. We love them for that.
Click Here to Read More..

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

News Roundup From NPR, AOL Spinner, Sick of the Radio, Delusions of Adequacy and more

NPR's "Hey Ladies" questionnaire features Gwyneth Moreland of Gwyneth & Monko


Buzz Bands LA reviews Sara Radle's Four

"Her solo career, three releases strong before she moved to L.A. from her native Texas in 2005, displays an affection for folk-flavored power-pop and girl-group stylings with orchestral sweep, and, as a diarist/storyteller, Radle falls somewhere in between Jenny Lewis and Juliana Hatfield."


Beehive Candy give their take on Neil Nathan, Sara Radle, Alan Cohen Experience, Leopold and His Fiction, and The White Ravens


AOL Spinner features Gwyneth & Monko's EP, Good Old Horse


Sick of the Radio features Echo Orbiter's exclusive promo video for their cover of R. Stevie Moore's "I Hope That You Remember"


The Boston Phoenix includes Neutral Uke Hotel's "King of Carrot Flowers Pt. 1" on their "On The Download" feature


Delusions of Adequacy reviews Gwyneth & Monko's Good Old Horse EP.
"Though each song displays an entirely unique and still, very traditional story at the helm, the sounds are easily identifiable with Moreland's peculiarly gifted vocals and Monko's bare-bones arrangements."


Icelandic blog Rjominn posts Neutral Uke Hotel's "King of Carrot Flowers Pt. 1 mp3


The Philly Fun Guide recommends The White Ravens upcoming Raven Lounge Show


Yes! Indie puts Echo Orbiter on their Radioactive Playlist and profiles the band


Stomp and Stammer report on Neutral Uke Hotel's upcoming tour


Near Say previews Neil Nathan's Highline Ballroom show


Broadway World reports The White Ravens' nomination for a Toronto Independent Music Award


Ashbee's Fragments posts Echo Orbiter's "I Hope That You Remember" video


Click Here to Read More..

Monday, July 26, 2010

Music Monday - PopWreckoning Talks The Books and Tchaikovsky

Up-to-date music news, live reviews, interviews and album reviews, PopWreckoning does it all and more. By the way, our own Shawn Fogel (Golden Bloom/Neutral Uke Hotel) is quoted on the site saying, "PopWreckoning is better than Pitchfork." Love it. Managing editor Bethany Smith took time out of her hectic schedule (just look at how much information is on PopWreckoning) to answer our MM questions.

Music Monday Q&A with PopWreckoning


1. How long has PopWreckoning been operating?
PopWreckoning began in 2007 as PopWreck: a creative outlet for founders Joshua Hammond and Jessica McGinley to discuss their views on pop culture.

2. What makes PopWreckoning different from other websites?
We're not gimmicky and we don't say things just to sound cool or elite. We are honest and earnest in our love of music and the arts.

3. Do you think PopWreckoning has a specific musical niche?
We cover a wide scope of artists, but we do lean toward the indie side. We really just want to help the little musicians succeed by helping spread the word about them. Mainstream pop artists don't really need our help in the same way, although we'll still give them love.

4. What contemporary albums are you looking forward to coming out?
I think everyone is pretty excited about the new Arcade Fire. I'm also pretty excited to finally have some more stuff from The Books. And though I really just want more Rilo Kiley music, I must admit I'm curious to hear the Jenny and Johnny album. Finally, we're psyched for the Kevin Devine and Manchester Orchestra collaboration: Bad Books. Those are some of our favorite bands and I'm surprised it has taken this long for them to work together on a project like this. We got to hear a few of the songs already and the world had better be ready to be blown away.

5. How does PopWreckoning support independent music and what is important about doing so?
All of our staff has deep ties to our own local music scenes. We do what we can in our communities to help those bands get national exposure and shows. Another one of the things we do to support independent music is sometimes we take a step back from the PR pitches being tossed at us and take the time to just browse MySpace or last.fm on our own until we discover something we like. It's important to support independent music because everyone deserves a chance to be heard and they need to be heard because they bring variety to music. Without variety, this isn't a culture as much as it is a machine. We need the independents, if that makes sense.

6. Do you think online publications are taking precedence over print magazine? What kind of effect do you think that has on bands?
Online is definitely important. I don't know if I'd say it takes precedence over print. Rolling Stone has such a rich heritage; I don't think you can discard something like that. But the print publications have all needed to add some sort of online component. Which I think is great. I think the effect that the Internet has had on the bands has been great. I mean, this is music we're talking about and now, at your finger tips you can just click a link to hear the song for yourself to see what a reviewer is talking about rather than set down your pages and just have to take a writer's word for it.

7. What blogs/publications do you read other than your own?
As far as music blogs, BrooklynVegan has consistently been great in its coverage, especially photography-wise. We also like to venture outside of music.

8. What has been your most definitive moment since you started at PopWreckoning?
I think it would have to be the first festival we covered. You become so isolated sometimes working online, but at a festival you're surrounded by people who do the same thing that you do and love the same thing that you do. It’s a big awakening to realize you're shooting in a pit next to someone from one of your favorite publications and you can finally put a face to bloggers.

9. If there is any musician/band you could interview (dead or alive) who would it be?
I'm not sure if this counts because he is a composer, but I'd love to talk to Tchaikovsky. I think people forget how much the classics influence the music we listen to now and Tchaikovsky is one of those composers who has had a song that has marked almost every significant event in my life.

10. If you could be in any band (of all time), who would you rock with?
That's a hard question. You almost want to say something like the Beatles, but really I'd be content with just any band that's just happy to be performing - someone whose happiness is contagious like Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros...

Like PopWreckoning on Facebook
Follow PopWreckoning on Twitter
Click Here to Read More..

Staff Infection: Heart of the Matter

In just over a week I’ll be turning 37 years old. For those of you keeping tabs who would like to wish me a very happy birthday, the exact date is August 3rd (I am a Leo after all so of course I need to make the day known).

July always seems to be this period of self-evaluation for me where I benchmark my successes for the year and measure whether I’ve achieved what I’ve wanted to achieve. So in my little self-reflective state it came to me that it’s all about heart. It’s all about doing what you love at all times, and fortunately for myself I can say that I spend a good majority of my time doing just that.

So in honor of the heart and going after another year’s worth of goals, I’m dedicating this week’s staff infection to getting to the heart of the matter:


Ben Mallott, “Heartbreaks” From Looks Good, Feels Good
Brendan Benson, “Cold Hands, Warm Heart”  From Alternative to Love
Death Cab for Cutie, “Your Heart is an Empty Room” From Plans
Naked Hearts, “Dark Shade” From Mass Hysteria
Ron Sexsmith, “Cold Hearted Wind” From Time Being
The Rosebuds, “Big Heartbreak” From The Rosebuds Make Out
Stars, “Heart”, From Heart

Each Monday a different Green Light Go staff member will let you in on what songs have infected their ears for the week, while giving you the opportunity to share in the experience yourself.

This week: Janelle Rogers, Green Light Go Owner/Publicist Extraordinaire

Click Here to Read More..

Thursday, July 22, 2010

The White Ravens Tour East Coast

Ann Arbor's The White Ravens keep getting hotter.....and we don't just mean this 90 degree weather. We couldn't be happier to announce that the duo is set for their first out-of-state tour in late August/early September. Joining siblings William and Amy Bennett, are drummer, Vince Russo, and guitarist, Andrew Brown.

The band does have plenty of shows under their belts, though. In May, the siblings played on Canada’s Breakfast Television, a morning show seen all over Canada. A White Ravens show is energetic, designed to get people to move, and the best way to do that is to set an example. With Amy’s spirited vocals and impressive bass runs, and Will’s fingers flying over the keys with maniacal speed and precision, it’s hard to resist the urge to bop along. And why should you?
The White Ravens’ latest release, Gargoyles and Weather Vanes is filled with catchy indie pop gems like “Sparks,” which happens to repeat on my iPod a lot these days, and it's video is just as interesting and vivacious as the song itself.

The White Ravens Tour Dates
8/28/10 Raven Lounge, Philadelphia, PA
8/29/10 Arlene’s Grocery, New York, NY
8/30/10 The Living Room, New York, NY
8/31/10 The Space, Hamden, CT
9/2/10 All Asia, Cambridge, MA
9/3/10 Campfire Festival, Cambridge, MA
9/4/10 Campfire Festival, Cambridge, MA Click Here to Read More..

Golden Bloom Shows Are Back Sharing Stages with Hey Marseilles, Telekinesis and Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin

Golden Bloom gets their power pop back into action playing shows with Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Telekinesis and Hey Marseilles. Shawn Fogel is becoming the busiest man in “indie” rock. In fact, he’s so busy with his bands Golden Bloom and Neutral Uke Hotel; we having a feeling that if he ever took time off, he would quickly be scooped up to work on another music endeavor. In addition to the August Neutral Uke Hotel tour, Golden Bloom has squeezed in a few excellent gigs in between.

On Thursday, August 5th, Golden Bloom opens for Seattle’s Hey Marseilles at Northampton’s Iron Horse Music Hall, and Tuesday, September 7th, Golden Bloom heads to Cambridge’s T.T. the Bear’s Place to play with Springfield, MO’s Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin and Seattle's Telekinesis.

Golden Bloom Tour Dates:
8/5/10 Iron Horse Music Hall, Northampton, MA, with Hey Marseilles.
9/7/10 T.T the Bear's Place, Cambridge, MA, with Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin and Telekinesis

Neutral Uke Hotel Tour Dates:
8/16/10 Grog Shop, Cleveland, OH
8/17/10 Blind Pig, Ann Arbor, MI
8/18/10 Southgate House, Newport, KY

8/19/10 Empty Bottle, Chicago, IL
8/20/10 Gabe's, Iowa City, IA
8/21/10 Kitty Cat Klub, Minneapolis, MN
8/22/10 The Frequency, Madison, WI
8/23/10 Cosmic Charlie's, Lexington, KY
8/24/10 Treehouse, Columbus, OH
8/25/10 Mid City Café, Washington, DC
8/29/10 Luckey's, Eugene, OR
8/30/10 Mississippi Studios, Portland, OR
8/31/10 The Sunset, Seattle, WA
Click Here to Read More..

The Other Side - Neil Nathan and The Go's Bobby Harlow Interview Each Other!

Welcome to The Other Side; a new Blog feature (they just keep coming!) that highlights the people "on the other side" of musicians and their albums. These pieces may showcase producers, engineers, booking agents, band photographers or online radio DJs. For our first installment of The Other Side, we wanted to talk to Bobby Harlow about producing Neil Nathan's forthcoming album The Distance Calls. Instead though, we thought we'd go all Interview style and have Neil interview Bobby himself. And boy these guys can talk. They talked about the incredible musicians brought into the studio to record, musical breakthroughs for Neil, Olympic swimming and the local grocery store. P.S. Harlow said "LOL."

Neil Nathan:  Hi Bobby. I sent you about 25 tunes to choose from, how did you choose the songs that made the record?

Bobby Harlow: Hi Neil. I was deciding whether or not I would be able to lend my creative energy to your songs, and if that would result in a cohesive record. It was a smart decision to send an overwhelming amount of demos. I just popped the demos on and in 30 minutes, had your record mapped out. I simply chose the jams that caught my attention in the first 60 seconds. Simply put, I went with my gut feeling and didn't second guess it. How did you feel about those choices? Were there any songs that you would have preferred on your album over the ones that were selected?

Neil Nathan: Wow, I'm impressed with your ability to go with your gut Bobby. Though I can't say I do that in all facets of my life, I definitely did that when I reached out to you to work with me and I think it paid off in spades. For me, the whole thing was a giant test to let go of my control freak tendencies and get out of my own way. And since I knew I liked your taste, I didn't really question your song choices at all. If you recall, there was only one tune I really wanted to try out that wasn’t on your list and that was Disappear. I had recorded it a few years back and was never quite happy with it.

Other than that, a sugary rocker like "Too Late" seemed right up your alley, but I didn't know you'd be down with that acoustic blues demo, "Better Be Goin'", and I certainly didn't expect it to come out like the sexed out glam beast it did. Watching you and Joey find your way to that guitar sound and solo was a twisty treat. That was one of the biggest and best surprises for me, as was "California Run". I recall you popping in the rehearsal disc when you picked me up from the airport and I was blown away by the breezy natural groove you guys had going. It was miles from the melancholy ballad I sent you. I didn't know you wanted to do that one ‘til I arrived in Detroit.  Good stuff.

Neil Nathan: Why/how did you choose the musicians for the studio band?

Bobby Harlow: That was a simple process. I called upon people who were going to be able to move quickly, efficiently, and who would pride themselves on their high level of professionalism in the studio. Oh yeah, and everybody who walked through those doors were wicked musicians. What was it like for you to walk into a situation where your songs were interpreted by strangers? That must have been fun. Did any of the arrangements catch you off guard?

Neil Nathan: Wicked and chill and humble. I was pleased as punch with all those guys. Don't get me wrong, I love NYC, but they just don't make 'em like that here. Most cats are filled with strange ego and attitude. So in a weird way, I had to travel to Detroit and leave my home town, to feel at home recording. As soon as I walked into Tempermill Studio and saw the Dali paintings all over the walls, one of which I had in my own bedroom, and the Tiger Stadium seats (I'm a lifelong fan), one with my favorite number 11 on it, I knew I was in the right place. It's a little disconcerting to know that you are exactly where you should be, doing exactly what you should be doing. I tried not to think about it to be honest.

One of the things I've always loved about your stuff with The Go is how lived in and organic the songs feel and you pushed some of my more undeveloped demos in that direction by having me add a verse here and there, a bridge, extend an outro, etc. Other than that, writing a few lyrics on the spot and collaborating with you was a joy for me and kept things alive and in the moment, which is how it should be.

Neil Nathan: How was it different working with a solo singer songwriter versus when you produce The Go or when you produced The Pizazz?

Bobby Harlow: When I've worked with a group, be it my own or The Pizazz, there's a team of people who are emotionally invested in the details. With you, there was only you. It's apples vs. oranges. We were able to crank that record out quickly. Because all of the musicians were approaching it like a "session" rather than a monument to their own creative expression, they seemed to be having fun and were rather detached from the notion that it was a testament to their individual, artistic voices. That allowed me to focus on your personal energy and psychological state. I think that's why we were able to spend so much time on the nuances of your vocal and performances. When working with a group of bandmates who are desperately attempting to elevate their sound and production into the stratosphere, it's more of a challenge to try to get the magic snapshot of the unselfconscious artist. So, it seems to me that artists approaching a "session" are best when they're completely focused... and artists approaching art are best when they're caught off guard. That's my opinion, anyway. What was it like being "produced" vs. working on your own? Pro’s and con’s?

Neil Nathan: Your opinion was certainly born out in this case. There's a photo of you and I chatting during the session that perfectly encapsulates that "off guard" feeling you're talking about. My eyes are wide open and I'm looking a bit off kilter while I'm trying to take in what you're saying and incorporate it into my vocal performance.

As far as being "produced," there's the mystical chair you had me sit in while recording the vocal for "Gone (Fly Away)" off Motor City Recordings, the first time we worked together. What resulted from that moment was a giant breakthrough for me as I was finally able to marry that pretty/intimate vocal approach with the rock songs. Definitely psychological manipulation magic on your part.

Only working with a singer I respect could have produced that in me and allowed me to simply listen to constructive criticism/advice/direction. Beyond that, leaving my daily world/home town and being liberated from the responsibility of managing personalities/musicians/engineers, allowed me to relax and remain totally focused on soaking up the experience and delivering the goods. Hitting it off so well with Engineer Jim Kissling contributed to that relaxed feeling too.

Neil Nathan: What song was the biggest surprise of the session?

Bobby Harlow: The biggest surprise of the session is that we walked away with a record. Haha no joke! Ya never know. The universe was sending a lot of energy our way. A lot can go wrong and it didn't. I guess, if you're referring to the music, "Don't Walk Away" was a real gem. As I recall, we worked the lyrics out a bit, kept it stripped down, and Dean Fretita laid that meandering piano on it, which lifted the whole song into the air. That one turned into a sublime, textural homage to melancholy. Good one.

Neil Nathan: Yes, The Blessed Sessions they were. "Don't Walk Away" used to be called "Walk Away". I recall you saying something about the importance of being positive. That one took me back a bit at first. I mean I do have a bit of the NYC cynic in me! But, we changed the chorus from "Oh, Oh leaving today, Oh, Oh Walk Away to Oh, Oh Even Today, Don't Walk Away". A seemingly small lyrical change totally transformed the message of the song. Good producing!


Neil Nathan: What was your favorite aspect of the session?

Bobby Harlow: I enjoyed the strict regiment. What was yours?

Neil Nathan: Being ripped out of my everyday experience and playing with musicians whose records I am a fan of. In a lot of ways, it was like rock fantasy camp for me. It was quite a trip for me to be playing my tunes in that live room with John [Krautner], Kenny [Tudrick] and Joey [Mazzola] with you in the control room. I was indeed a pig in shit.

Neil Nathan: What is your favorite tune on the record?

Bobby Harlow: They're all good. I like "Sweet Darlin" for its ambience.

Neil Nathan: What do you think is special about this record?

Bobby Harlow: I like the dynamic of it. It's quite diverse. You know, I'm a big fan of records like Revolver and Gorilla so I'm really into the ones that can't sit still. It's definitely not a record that stays the course.

Neil Nathan: Yeah I remember you calling me a schizo singer once. I always dug that term. I think my writing is a lot like that too. I'm still amazed that the record sounds coherent with all that diversity. Definitely a tribute to your song choices and production skills.

Neil Nathan: What new learnings did you take from the session as a producer?

Bobby Harlow: You know, it's like anything else in life... learning about others, one's self, the terrain, behavioral studies... actually, it's a real behavioral study. I mean, sure, I've picked up a few more equalization preferences. That's cool. It's all a work in progress. Asking what I've learned from any experience working on art is like asking to describe every detail of everything I've seen since birth. I've just absorbed everything. Who knows? How about you? Learn anything new in there?

Neil Nathan: Well I'm afraid to ask what you learned about my behavior ;) I learned a lot about the power of subtlety vocally and about listening to what the song wants from me, as well as the importance of letting go. I’ve never let someone else pick my vocal takes. That was a Herculean feat of self-control for me. Watching the Tigers sweep that series in the other room kept me distracted and entertained. Had it not, I probably would have stuck my head in the control room more and you would have had to forcibly remove me!

Neil Nathan: How did your experience as a rock singer inform your production choices for me as a singer/for vocals and recording them?

Bobby Harlow: Well, since we're unique individuals - but pretty similar - I guess I was just sensitive to the atmosphere of your experience in relation to my own, i.e., lighting, privacy, sound reflection, headphone levels, how your tonsils were holding up, your mood, all that. I'm pretty fussy, when it comes to recording my own voice, so I think I'm a bit of a mother hen when it comes to helping with somebody's performance. For example, I want the headphones to be exciting before the vocal session starts, not half way in. The first moment is the one that counts. If the initial take isn't under ideal circumstances, I've found myself struggling to maintain energy, for the long haul, while attempting to recreate the initial enthusiasm for a performance. It's a slippery slope. We went down that road a few times, as I recall. How did you like working with a vocal coach? Ha ha. Was there a time that you remember feeling vexed?

Neil Nathan: I think working with a rock singer that I've respected for years pushed me to new heights vocally. That’s an inherently motivational situation right off the bat. As far as specific songs, I recall "Highways" being a little vexing as I kept wanting to belt it out rather than sing it more intimately. Eventually I found the voice and tone when I re- tracked it a day or so later. "Never Enough" was also a challenge. That one is an entirely different tone than I’d ever used before. I was banging my head against the wall for a while before you took me outside, massaged my ego, and gave me a speech about the casual NY cool of Lou Reed and the sexual appeal of Marlon Brando. I think we settled on Steve McQueen and Pacino in The Godfather as the approach and magically that bizarre conversation jogged something in my head and I nailed it right after; possibly my favorite vocal performance on the record.

Neil Nathan: Where do you get your limitless energy and enthusiasm from?

Bobby Harlow: LOL! Thanks, Neil. I like that. I dunno. Reaching for the heights, I guess. I love making music. That's what I do best. God made me a bit nuts, and it works in the studio. Believe me, you want me to produce your record, not operate on your spine. Haha. On second thought, I'm sure there's plenty of spinal surgeons that drink a gallon of coffee and yell about the genius of Lou Reed right before they cut you open... or, maybe not. Anyway, I love what I do. I love other people who love what they do. I have an immense amount of respect for people who don't love what they do, but do it anyway... I just hope I don't meet any of those people in the recording studio. Haha

Bobby Harlow: What about you? What are you doing all of this for? What's the point? Why don't you go get a real job? Haha

Neil Nathan: I’ve got this Dr. Seuss book called My Book About Me and you fill the thing out when you’re five-years-old with inane things like how many forks are in your house and how many steps it is until the nearest tree. There’s a question in there about what you want to be when you grow up. I wrote an Olympic Swimmer or a Professional Singer. It seems the Olympic Swimmer dream has passed, though I did try out for Mark Spitz’s trainer when I was ten-years-old and he wanted to work with me! I cried for days when my folks weren’t down with the intensity of training everyday for the rest of my childhood. But that’s another story entirely. Anyway, I’ve just always wanted to sing and knew it was in me. The songwriting part came much later. But I was rocking my 45’s of Cheap Trick’s “I Want You to Want Me”, Neil Diamond’s “Desiree”, and Shaun Cassidy’s cover of “Da Doo Ron Ron” on a loop at that age. Bizarrely, I don’t think my musical taste has changed much since then! I think I’m just eternally trying to get back to age five. But I digress, and I do love digressing. There’s just nothing that makes me happier than writing, recording, and performing my tunes. Nothing. It’s that simple.

Neil Nathan: Who do you credit with teaching you how to be such a gracious host?

Bobby Harlow: Oh, sure. Thank you. That would be William F. Buckley Jr. and Pat.

Neil Nathan: What is the deal of the week at the Hazel Park Kroger's?

Bobby Harlow: Sadly, I haven't returned. My best guess would be something made from corn that will wither your thyroid and quietly kill you.


photo by Fabrizio Costantini Click Here to Read More..

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Hannah Georgas and Jeremy Fisher Team Up for Animated Video - Go Canada!



In June, at Toronto's annual NXNE festival, the GLG ladies were overjoyed to catch Hannah Georgas' set at a busy afternoon BBQ. It was way too short for us...we wanted more! We were all charmed by her confident stage presence, unique voice... as well as her clothes and style. :)



Georgas teamed up with fellow B.C. singer Jeremy Fisher (an amazing singer/songwriter pop musician that is so......man, just sweet with hand claps and everything I love about pop music) and Ian Langhor to create this really fun and kick-ass animated video for Georgas' song "Bang Bang You're Dead," taken from her album This is Good.

p.s. In case you don't know me, Shannon McCarthy, I am sort of obsessed with Canadian music. Always have been. So watch out for more.
Click Here to Read More..

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

News Roundup from Faronheit, Neu Futur, Consequence of Sound and more

Faronheit posts Neil Nathan's "Highways" and "I'm So Happy You Failed"

Examiner.com and Parasites and Sycophants post Neutral Uke Hotel's August tour.

Neu Futur
posts Gwyneth and Monko's national tour announcement

Consequence of Sound
posts Echo Orbiter's "Mouth of an Incomplete Twin" and Alan Cohen Experience's "Arrows of Time".

Broadway World
announces Neil Nathan's album and video release party

Stomp and Stammer
posts Golden Bloom's "30 Lives" and Leopold and His Fiction's "Golden Friends"

The Metro Times
reviews Neil Nathan's The Distance Calls

"The best part? Nathan combines a singer-songwriter sound— that which you’d never brag about enjoying to your pals— with a touch of ’70s-influenced rock ‘n’ roll that relieves any worries about losing your, um, man card."

Boston Band Crush
and Cheap Thrills Boston preview The Motion Sick's Rock Primary Show

Super Ultra Deluxe
posts Leopold and His Fiction's "Golden Friends"

The Rock and Roll Report
reviews Neil Nathan's new LP, saying "The Distance Calls
merges 70s-style jangle pop with modern singer/songwriter smarts."

Neil Nathan's
"When the Rain Falls" hits #57 on WMSV's top 100

Rock and Roll Report
posts a review of Sara Radle's Four

"Her intensely personal lyrics and the trademark sweetness in her voice invite the listener into her world, which is supported by a soundtrack of indie pop and rock."
Click Here to Read More..

Monday, July 19, 2010

Music Monday - Medleyville.us Talks Spoon, The Gaslight Anthem, Arcade Fire and More

With the endless amount of music websites and blogs popping up, it’s hard to keep on top of them all. Medleyville.us might not currently be on your radar, but we hope to change that. Chris M. Junior, founder and editor of Medleyville, is not just a blogger, critic and editor; he is a massive music fan. Yes, we all are, but after talking with Chris, it was nice to hear that while he’s up to date on indie and underground bands, he’s also got a firm familiarity in music from past eras. He can use those music roots to connect artists he loves like Tom Petty, Sam Cooke and Carole King to My Morning Jacket and Neko Case, etc. He gets extra points for pulling out Buck Owens and Sam Phillips. Chris not only has a lot to say about the state of music criticism, he has a lot to say in general. We dig that; we’re talkers.

Music Monday Q&A with Medleyville

1. How long has Medleyville been operating?
Medleyville.us was launched March 1, 2004. I came up with the idea for the site a few months prior and had a friend handle the technical side of things. I decided to launch my own site in order to keep myself busy between full-time journalism gigs. I also thought it would be a productive way to keep my name out there as I tried to hustle up some paying freelance writing opportunities.

From the start, I’ve had a handful of music-savvy friends with writing backgrounds contribute to the site as well. I never wanted Medleyville to be a one-man show, and it’s safe to say the site wouldn’t exist without their input.



2. What makes Medleyville different from other websites?
…It focuses on both emerging and established artists from various genres and eras. It’s more like an online version of a general-interest music magazine, hence the motto “music coverage for eclectic tastes.”

Another thing that’s a little different about my site is I prefer to run interviews and features. These days, anybody can write a CD review and post it online, but not everyone can conduct a good interview with an artist or write an interesting narrative feature.

Something else that’s a little unconventional about the site is the way we do CD reviews. There are three formats: a traditional review that’s a few hundred words, a collection of one-paragraph reviews known as Quick Spins and a multi-author, conversational-style review of a single release called Disc Discussion. No matter what, we try to be fair in our criticism and commentary and not resort to pontificating or taking cheap shots.

3. Do you think Medleyville has a specific musical niche?
Not really, and I think that’s what makes the site different from most others. Rock tends to dominate Medleyville, but I don’t discriminate against any style. My personal musical collection runs the gamut, and I see nothing wrong with a website covering a wide musical range. I know the tendency these days is to serve a niche audience, but writing about one musical style all the time would bore the crap out of me.

4. What contemporary albums are you looking forward to coming out?
A lot of the albums I was looking forward to this year have already been released. They include the new ones by Spoon, Vampire Weekend, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, The Gaslight Anthem and Justin Currie. As for what’s on the horizon, I’m looking forward to Tin Can Trust, the new Los Lobos. I’ve been a fan of the band for more than 25 years. I recently heard a cool new song by The Arcade Fire that now has me interested in the rest of The Suburbs.

5. How does Medleyville support independent music and what is important about doing so?
The term “independent music” means different things to different people. To me, it has nothing to do with a specific sound. Indie music means any act – new or veteran, regardless of genre – that’s not with one of the remaining major record labels/music corporations and has a strong DIY ethic. That said Medleyville.us does support indie music. But one important qualifier for all artists looking for coverage on my site – and exceptions are very rare -- is that they must be touring acts. Anybody can sit at home, record a song, post it on MySpace or wherever and claim to be a musician or an artist, thinking an online presence is a way around playing gigs. I hear from people like that from time to time.

6. Do you think online publications are taking precedence over print magazine? What kind of effect do you think that has on bands?
Yes, I think there are a few online publications that are very much on par with print magazines. Pitchfork, for one, is probably as important today as Rolling Stone or Spin in terms of having its finger on the pulse of what’s new, good, different and important. There’s no doubt that the impact of online publications on bands has been tremendous. On the positive side, bands have plenty of outlets they can pitch for coverage.

7. What blogs/publications do you read other than your own?
I read the online and print versions of Billboard, Rolling Stone, Spin and Time Out New York on a regular basis. I’ll pick up Paste, Magnet and Alternative Press now and then.

As for blogs, I check out Pitchfork, BrooklynVegan and Time Out New York’s The Volume. Also, I often listen to the online streams of radio stations from around the country, such as Austin’s KGSR, San Francisco’s KFOG and Philadelphia’s WXPN, and their respective sites have good, useful news and information. I also read Jim DeRogatis’ Pop N’ Stuff blog. Jim is one of the best music writers today, and he also is a co-host of the radio show “Sound Opinions” with fellow Chicago music journalist Greg Kot.

8. What has been your most definitive moment since you started Medleyville?
There have been a few. Recently, John Mellencamp’s website posted my short review of his box set On the Rural Route 7609 on his news page. For a little site like mine to get a mention on a major artist’s site, that was a surprise and a thrill. Generally speaking, the past year or so has been important and satisfying for Medleyville. In that time, I’ve had more artists, publicists and labels contact me about being featured on the site. That tells me we must be doing something right. We’ve come a long way…

9. If there is any musician/band you could interview (dead or alive) who would it be?
Of artists who are still alive, I’d have to say Keith Richards, Paul Westerberg, Tom Petty, Elton John and Elvis Costello. I’ve never read an interview where any one of them just phoned it in. After those guys, the list would include Carole King, Steve Cropper, Neko Case, My Morning Jacket’s Jim James, Allen Toussaint, Steve Earle, Todd Rundgren, Stevie Wonder and George Jones.

As for deceased artists, at the top would be Buddy Holly, followed by Sam Cooke, Rick Nelson, Marvin Gaye, Buck Owens and producer Sam Phillips.

10. If you could be in any band (of all time), who would you rock with?
I’d say Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Booker T. and the MG’s and The Byrds. Those three epitomize what I value most in bands: great chops, instincts, restraint and taste – and, of course, great songs. And in the end, it always comes down to great songs.

Like Medleyville on Facebook
Click Here to Read More..

Staff Infection: Sonic Shoulder Mixtape

It’s one of those weeks. You know, the kind where it seems like we’re all living Nintendo cheat sequences (up up, down down, left right, left right…). Even for a tragically optimistic, glass-half-full kind of girl like myself, the weight of the world feels just a little bit heavier at the moment. For those of you who are hitting a rough spot, are feeling the teeth of life sinking in, or as Jeff Tweedy of Wilco says, are in need a “sonic shoulder to cry on,” I’ve complied a few cheer-up songs that have been floating through my speakers, as a reminder that what goes down must come up. (This is a scientific fact according to Roberts’ Law of Emotional Physics). Until that happens, here’s a little audio bear hug courtesy of Green Light Go.

Wilco, “Wilco (The Song)” from Wilco (The Album)
The Flaming Lips, “Do You Realize??” from Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots
Electric Light Orchestra, “Mr. Blue Sky” from Out of the Blue
George Harrison, “Here Comes the Sun” from Let it Roll
Eels, “Beginner’s Luck” from Hombre Lobo
Modest Mouse, “Float On” from Good News for People Who Love Bad News
Nada Surf, “Always Love” from The Weight Is a Gift
Ryan Adams, “Chin Up, Cheer Up” from Demolition

Each Monday a different Green Light Go staff member will let you in on what songs have infected their ears for the week, while giving you the opportunity to share in the experience yourself.

This week:
Lauren Roberts, Green Light Go Talent Coordinator/Publicity Client Scout

Click Here to Read More..

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Rosario Dawson co-stars in Neil Nathan's Video "California Run"











After NYC's Neil Nathan recorded his album, The Distance Calls, in Detroit, it hit him that the entire process had a road-trip style feel to it, which lent to his music and more importantly hit home in the single "California Run."



"I left town to make this record," says Nathan, "and I hope that the record somehow embodies that emotional journey as well." "California Run" is a love song for both a fantasy girl, the state itself and its possibilities. The memorable chorus for such a song that teeters on power-pop, folk rock and stomp, created for a video that lent itself to the pure optimistic charm of the song. Hip Video (a company that has created videos for Goldfrapp, Liars, Born Ruffians and so many more) directors Ric Serena and Vaj Potenza teamed up with Nathan for the "California Run" video, starring Neil's former roommate, actress Rosario Dawson (
Harmony Korine's Kids, Men in Black II, Sin City, Grindhouse, etc.). In the video, Neil plays a hitchhiker traveling the dusty roads of California with guitar in hand, in search of his long lost dream girl. Wish we were all so lucky. The video couldn't be more perfect for the story behind the song.

"California Run" instantly make you want to get in your your car, roll the windows down, feel the fresh air and crank up the tunes while you go for an afternoon drive. That's exactly what Nathan wants you to feel when you hear the song and listen to The Distance Calls as a whole.

The Distance Calls is set for release on August 24th.
Click Here to Read More..

Friday, July 16, 2010

Favorite Friday with Neil Nathan: Brendan Benson and Pizza

You might need to live in NYC to ultimately indulge in Neil Nathan's list of Favorite Fridays. But we're pretty sure you can fix yourself up something almost as good.

"NYC is like a giant carnival. Sometimes, I get on one too many rides," says Nathan. "And so it came to pass...and Dionysus proudly beamed as he looked down from Mt. Olympus. 'But wait!' said the young Jewish rock singer, 'I must complain about something to truly achieve total aural and gastronomic pleasure. The right song is necessary as well! Perhaps one of these myriad restaurants that pop up daily in this town should add the right artist or song to a recommended food and drink combo. Now that would be splendid!"

Neil Nathan's Top Five Food & Drink Combos (and the right tunes to go along)



1. Combo: Shake Shack double cheeseburger and a Goosehead IPA at Citi Field
Musical accompaniment: "Revival," Soulsavers

2. Combo: Guacamole and a Patron Margarita at Rosa Mexicano
Musical accompaniment: "Spanish Bee," The Brian Jonestown Massacre

3. Combo: Ricotella chocolate desert pizza and Pinot Grigio at San Marzano
Musical accompaniment: "Feel Like Taking You Home," Brendan Benson

4. Combo: Argentine sausage-baked eggs and a Bloody Mary at Cafe Ronda
Musical accompaniment: "Good Morning Captain," The Black Crowes

5. Combo: Guinness burger with Guinness cheese and a Boddingtons Pub Ale
Musical accompaniment: "There's a Light," Reno Bo


Follow Neil Nathan on Twitter

Like Neil Nathan on Facebook

Photo by
Nicole Szalewski. Each Friday, hence the name Favorite Friday - one GLG band/artist will send us a list and comments about their "favorites" of the week. It could be a list of albums they are listening to in the van, books they are reading, guilty pleasure TV, and so on. We hope these various "favorites" will give you unique glimpse into the lives of our bands. Click Here to Read More..

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Stephen Hawking: The Great Alien Debate with Alan Cohen and Neil Nathan

Stephen Hawking is arguably one of the finest geniuses of our time. The Discovery Channel obviously had to give him his own series of TV specials: Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking. A few months ago, Mr. Smarty-Pants, sorry, Professor Hawking, decided to tackle the age-old question…no, not that one, but this one: Do aliens exist? Clearly, according to Hawking they do or he wouldn’t have named this specific special “Fear the Aliens.” Many people have a different opinion on Hawking’s state of mind and “scientific” research. So we decided to have two of Green Light Go’s own musicians take their place in The Great Alien Debate.

Alan Cohen of The Alan Cohen Experience is a staunch supporter of Hawking. It was in fact Hawking’s book “A Brief History in Time,” that resulted in Cohen’s August 31 release of the concept album Space & Time. So we know that we have an automatic Hawking fan on our hands. But after Neil Nathan showed interest (albeit a bit tongue-in-cheek) in "Fear the Aliens," we thought it would be interesting (and probably humorous) to pit Nathan and Cohen’s opinions against each other in The “Friendly” Great Alien Debate. (FYI: Nathan’s new album The Distance Calls comes out August 24.)

Below are each musician’s initial reactions to "Fear the Aliens." Neither has read the other’s take until now, as you are. We henceforth encourage Nathan and Cohen to comment back and forth (feel free to stick your nose in too, ahem Michael J. Epstein) for a friendly battle of, well, is Hawking a genius or a nut?


Alan Cohen on "Fear the Aliens"

“It's easy to write off Stephen Hawking as a silly nut peddler, especially considering the stakes he has in advancing his theory of extra-terrestrial invasions: a TV show! We all know that outrageous things make for great ratings. But is there something to his argument that reaching out to alien life could be disastrous for life here on Earth? Taken at its word, his logic is clear and simple: advanced life forms that are culturally organized enough to explore space, are no doubt big consumers of materials. Digging a bit deeper, our own history provides some insight. In the entire scope of human history, no voyage of ‘exploration’ was taken without at least the possibility of ‘striking it rich.’ The European age of exploration was intimately tied to the spice trade; deep-sea exploration has ties to oil (as we all now know), and even space exploration was/is done in order to advance military technology. At every level of life, the constant force that drives us all (and this includes amoebas) is survival. Plain, good 'ole survival. Humans won't bother exploring a far-away place unless there is a survivalist reason (resources, escape from disaster, etc.). Why would aliens be any different?”

Neil Nathan on "Fear the Aliens"

“For a genius, Stephen Hawking's fear mongering about aliens who are exactly like humans - but with better technology - is beyond lame. Though it makes for arguably good television on shows like V and The X Files, and movies like Independence Day or War of The Worlds, I'd expect a bit more from our resident brainiac. I'm flabbergasted by his lack of imagination! What about some inter-dimensional possibilities or some bold statement like, ‘They're already here or have been many times and they're bored as hell with our lack of social progress. Until we get our shit together, they won't be ‘officially’ presenting themselves, because we're still just too stupid and self destructive.’ That's Prime Directive 101, Professor!”

“Simply projecting human imperial history onto the unknown is about as base as it comes. As is the belief that humans are simply a virus like Agent Smith posits in The Matrix. Hawking should stick to black holes. Of course, all these possibilities and more are almost certain realities in our limitless universe, but there's gotta be some pretty cool stuff worth chattering about too. Perhaps he should read Childhood's End by Arthur C. Clarke and see how civilized aliens act or even Cocoon! “

Now.......... go! Debate! Comment and play fair.
Click Here to Read More..

Neutral Uke Hotel Kicks Off Mid-West and West Coast August Tour

Neutral Uke Hotel, who have been taking the world by storm with their live performances of Neutral Milk Hotel’s In the Aeroplane Over the Sea, are about to embark on a 12-city tour beginning August 16th in Cleveland. Neutral Uke Hotel isn’t your average cover band; they play this beloved album entirely on ukulele, giving the original songs a fresh, new upbeat take. Road trip anyone?

The group, made up of Shawn Fogel (vocals, ukulele), Josh Cohen (melodica), Matt Girard (trumpet), and Michael J. Epstein (baritone ukulele), have been playing sold out shows to enthusiastic crowds who are encouraged to sing along. Epstein, who also fronts The Motion Sick, said, “People were encouraged to sing, clap, and stomp along...and they weren't shy!”



Never fear, avid Neutral Milk Hotel fans, Fogel, front man of Golden Bloom, and the rest of Neutral Uke are quite reverential for Jeff Mangum’s classic. Fogel says of this project, “It’s one of my favorite records ever, and the album doesn’t just have fans. The people who love that album are obsessed with it…. The goal of the project: [is] to strip these songs down and get people in a room to share their love for this album.’’

Neutral Uke Hotel Tour Dates
8/16 Grog Shop, Cleveland, OH
8/17 Blind Pig, Ann Arbor, MI
8/18 Southgate HouseCincinnati, OH
8/20 Gabe's, Iowa City, IA
8/21 Kitty Cat Klub, Minneapolis, MN
8/22 The Frequency, Madison, WI
8/23/ Cosmic Charlie's, Lexington, KY
8/24 Treehouse, Columbus, OH
8/25 Mid City Caffé, Washington, DC
8/29 Luckey's, Eugene, OR
8/30 Mississippi Studios, Portland, OR
8/31 The Sunset, Seattle, WA
Click Here to Read More..

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

News Roundup from Magnet, Medleyville, Largehearted Boy and More

KEPX Blog posts an mp3 of "Sparks" by The White Ravens.

Bill's Music Forum posted mp3s from Sara Radle, The White Ravens, Neutral Uke Hotel, Leopold and His Fiction, Alan Cohen Experience, Gwyneth & Monko, Echo Orbiter, and Neil Nathan.

Magnet's MP3 at 3PM features Alan Cohen Experience's "Arrows of Time."
"...Cohen was inspired to write blithe, sing-along pop music while reading about heavy scientific themes explored in the book such as gravity, magnetism and black holes. 'Arrows Of Time' is a breezy summer jam about Hawking’s concept of the same name."

Neil Nathan performs live, in the Heritage Radio Network studio for their show Main Course.



San Diego: Dialed In features mp3s by Sara Radle, Neutral Uke Hotel, Leopold and His Fiction, Alan Cohen Experience, Gwyneth & Monko, Echo Orbiter, and Neil Nathan.

Medleyville features Gwyneth & Monko's Good Old Horse EP as a Quick Spin.
"The folky pair's charming five-song EP (due July 20) is sensitive and sparse, with the youthful-sounding Gwyneth Moreland leading the way as both singer and songwriter."

Metro Times' Music Blahg
features The White Ravens. "Their songs come on like Ben Folds and Billy Joel taking turns sitting in with They Might Be Giants, and that’s not irony! See, Billy Joel drummer Liberty DeVitto plays drums on the Diamond sessions and They Might Be Giants are whispering about taking the local pair for support on tour."

The Boston Phoenix posts Neutral Uke Hotel's "King of Carrot Flowers, Part 1."

Tergiversations of a Traveling Mind posts the video for "Sparks" by The White Ravens.

Largehearted Boy posts an mp3 of Sara Radle's "Song For Adam."

Leopold and His Fiction's Beerland show is listed on Ultra 8201.

Indy Concerts previews The True Jacqueline's show at The Vollrath.
"Their sound reminds me a lot of the rock beat of fellow East Coasters Vampire Weekend."

Tympanogram
reviews Leopold and His Fiction's "Golden Friends," calling it "...Haunting and scratchy, and sounds as if it was conjured up in the backrooms of old Western saloons over whiskey and cigarettes."

FYI Music News reports that The White Ravens are nominated for a Toronto Indie Award in the Best International, Best USA & Best Out-Of-Province category.

The AV Club, Austin previews Leopold and His Fiction's Beerland show, "...Recent track 'Golden Friends' muddies leftover '60s mysticism with the usual Motor City muck."

Mass Live.com called The True Jacqueline's Sierra Grille show "fantastic."

Animal Foodchain
posts the video for Echo Orbiter's "This Worm in Rigor Mortis."

Compiled by Kelly Bennett
Click Here to Read More..

Gwyneth & Monko Kick Off Late Summer Tour Out West

Northern California duo, Gwyneth & Monko, will bring their earnest, stripped-down blend of folk, Americana and blues when they begin the late summer leg of their 17 city Western tour through California, Oregon and Washington to celebrate the release of their first EP, Good Old Horse, due out July 20th.

Gwyneth Moreland has a voice that invokes Jenny Lewis’ solo work crossed with the intimate folk of Gillian Welch. Michael Monko accompanies her lyrical stories with trickling mandolin, steady acoustic guitar and folk accents. Together they play pure, earnest folk that would be at home in the South, even though they both call Northern California home.



Audiences can expect the same sparse instrumentation and vocals found on Good Old Horse in Gwyneth and Monko’s live show. The duo tours in an RV that serves as a temporary home on the road. The phrase “less is more,” couldn’t be more apt for Gwyneth & Monko. “We travel in a camper van that has a sink, cook top, and refrigerator,” says Gwyneth. “We both love to travel and so we view touring as away to do all our favorite things: playing music and traveling.”

Gwyneth & Monko Tour Dates
7/24/10 CD Release Show, The Cozmic Cafe & Pub, Placerville, CA
8/1/10 CD Release Show, The Rock-It Room, San Francisco, CA
8/11/10 The Rock N' Soul Café, Boulder, CO
8/13/10 The Downtown Bar, Pueblo, CO
8/14/10 Eske's Brew Pub, Taos, NM
8/15/10 Cowgirl BBQ, Santa Fe, NM
8/20/10 Dakota Lounge, Santa Monica, CA
8/21/10 Wynola Pizza Express, Julian, CA
8/23/10 The Coffee Gallery Backstage, Altadena, CA
8/24/10 Linnaea’s Café, San Luis Obispo, CA
8/24/10 San Luis Obispo, CA
8/25/10 The Pour House, Paso Robles, CA
8/26/10 The Pour House, Paso Robles, CA
8/28/10 Mendo Folk House, Mendocino, CA
8/30/10 Amnesia, San Francisco, CA
9/2/10 The Axe & Fiddle, Cottage Grove, OR
9/5/10 Sirens Pub, Port Townsend, WA
9/8/10 The Green Frog Acoustic Tavern, Bellingham, WA
9/9/10 The Mandolin Café, Tacoma, WA
Click Here to Read More..

Free Music from Neil Nathan

Free EP you say? Free music? Download a free EP of your choice from New York City singer-songwriter and rocker Neil Nathan? True, true and true.

If you want to stay informed on all things Neil Nathan, and believe us, you do, go to his website at neilnathan.com, sign up for his email list and you will automatically get a free digital download of an EP of your choice. Just browse through his discography, try to narrow it down to just one EP and email Nathan at me@neilnathan.com requesting which record you'd like, and he'll send you the link to download it.

Nathan is gearing up his guitar, his jams and his sweet songwriting heart for his NYC album release party, on Tuesday, July 20 at the Highline Ballroom by offering his fans a chance to download his music for free before the show...if you hurry fast. We call this a CD release “party” because it’s a night of musical splendor we wish we could all be at. Along with Nathan performing songs from his upcoming album The Distance Calls, he will also debut his videos for “California Run” and “When The Rain Falls” while Alan Semerdjian, Featherweight and GLG’s own Golden Bloom play their own outstanding sets. Click Here to Read More..