independent thoughts on alternative music
A band of brothers that morphed into an actual band, folk rock outfit Ha Ha Tonka began many moons ago at the former Southwest Missouri State University, now known as Missouri State University, picked up a rowdy roster of members along the way–since then, they have toured the world, graced major festival stages, and set … Read more PREVIEW: HA HA TONKA at 3RD & LINDSLEY on 7/30/17
California-based alt-pop outfit Private Island, currently on their first nationwide tour, will make a stop at The High Watt on July 28th to dazzle the Nashville crowd with their sultry brand of electro-groove. “We bought a school bus for this tour and I’ve been working on it for the last two weeks, night and day … Read more PREVIEW: PRIVATE ISLAND at THE HIGH WATT on 7/28/17
As quickly as things had begun in Louisville, they were coming to an end with day three of Forecastle upon us. The festival grounds early on Sunday were already sweltering as we made our way to see Nashville indie pop favorites Coin, who had just begun their set on the Main Stage to a much-larger-than-I-had-expected … Read more Eo8 ON LOCATION: FORECASTLE FESTIVAL, DAY 3
Long Beach, California-based alt-rock duo This Wild Life is currently touring in support of their latest release, Low Tides, out last September via Epitaph Records. The tour will bring the pair to Nashville for a show at The High Watt on Sunday, July 23rd—and it’s safe to say that the band has some tricks up … Read more PREVIEW: THIS WILD LIFE at THE HIGH WATT on 7/23/17
“The record’s out, it’s time to dig in and entertain people. How can people resist? I’m bare-chested on the cover. Dad bods are in right? I’m totally rocking the dad bod. I’m trying to show the world you don’t have to be Justin Bieber to pose shirtless,” says the quick-witted Trevor Sensor of his latest … Read more PREVIEW: TREVOR SENSOR at THE BASEMENT on 7/20/17
When I was a kid, my favorite movie was, hands down, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. Sugar addictions aside, the fantastic world behind the factory’s fortified gates presented endless possibilities. Each area explored was more exciting than the last, and contained delicious diversions—served with a side of danger. Willy Wonka literally rolled out the … Read more ALBUM REVIEW: “EMERGING ADULTHOOD” by DAN CROLL
After our first day at Forecastle, I had high hopes for the rest of the weekend–and day number two did not disappoint. We started the festivities with classic rock revivalists The Shelters, who are reminiscent of iconic outfits like The Beatles, The Kinks, and The Beach Boys. With a combination of wicked guitar riffs, smooth … Read more Eo8 ON LOCATION: FORECASTLE MUSIC FESTIVAL, DAY 2
Australia-based pop artist Ben Hazlewood has unleashed the much-anticipated music video for his single “Sail Away”; the hazy video illustrates the product of a rum-filled night mixed with intense emotion, caused by a great loss, and features Hazelwood’s signature arena-sized vocals dripping with intensity and oozing emotion. ‘Sail Away’ is the second release from Hazlewood’s 5-track EP EOS; “The video for ‘Sail … Read more “SAIL AWAY” – NEW VIDEO from BEN HAZLEWOOD
It’s no secret that there are many different festivals from which to choose these days; I can say from experience, though, that one of the best events in the country is Forecastle Festival in Louisville, Kentucky. Located in downtown Louisville, right on the bank of the Ohio River, Forecastle offers a unique and beautiful experience. … Read more Eo8 ON LOCATION: FORECASTLE FESTIVAL, DAY 1
Last Friday night added up to the perfect storm for an unforgettable concert experience. A dynamic band with an impeccable history of mesmerizing live performances? Taken care of by the Louisville rockers of My Morning Jacket. Amazing sound quality in an open air setting? Taken care of by Ascend Amphitheater, which I might argue … Read more LIVE SHOW REVIEW: MY MORNING JACKET