Welcome to another amazing month of music from the incredible musicians that make up the Sonicbids.com community. We have chose a select group of amazing musicians that will be speaking directly to the Skope readers. As always we encourage readers to dig deeper and check out their EPK’s.
Erica Owns The Sky
www.sonicbids.com/Ericaownsthesky
Erika Fatale
www.sonicbids.com/ErikaFatale
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Erika Fatale: It was a wonderful surprise to be chosen out of what I’m sure were many musicians that were considered. It’s a fabulous opportunity for me to reach Skope readers and gain exposure to more and more people, so thank you!
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Erika Fatale: I just want to put on the best, most entertaining live shows possible so to improve with each performance I give as well as writing and recording more material that further hones in on my own unique sound. I’ve been singing and performing for many years, but I feel as if I’m really just beginning as an artist, so there’s so much yet to accomplish and I’m really excited for what 2011 has in store.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Erika Fatale: I think the biggest thing is marketing and promotion. Obviously, creating and performing are my greatest focuses so it’s difficult spreading yourself so thin to also accomplish all you need to on the business side. The more opportunities I receive such as this great one by being featured on Skope helps reach a larger audience and spread the word.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Erika Fatale: I absolutely love James Morrison. For whatever reason, he hasn’t become very mainstream here in the US but I really love his soulful voice and his songs have substance and just great melodies. He’s greatly influenced by Stevie Wonder (one of my all-time favorites) and he’s definitely someone I’d love to collaborate with one day.
Also, Jessie J is starting to gain momentum here in the US and I like that she has a fabulous, soulful voice and is doing something different and sings songs of substance as well. It’s very refreshing to hear a great voice again! I feel like her and I could do some damage together.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Erika Fatale: Music has just always brought purpose to my life. It was my outlet as a child and gave me a voice in difficult situations when I felt I didn’t have one. Since I was eleven or twelve years old I’ve known I wanted to be a recording artist and I’ve just always had that narrow focus and have had my eyes on the prize ever since. Singing, performing, and creating music is when I’m happiest and I cannot imagine ever doing anything else!
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Erika Fatale: I’m performing next Saturday in Los Angeles for Cherry Pop at Ultra Suede Lounge (661 N. Robertson Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069) at midnight so if you’re in the area come out and see us!
I’ll also be heading back into the studio soon to record new material so I’m excited to share that once it’s complete!
The best places to reach me:
Facebook.com/erikafatale (Best place for latest news, performances, videos, etc)
Myspace.com/erikafatale
Youtube.com/erikafatale
Twitter.com/erikafatale
Karanji
www.sonicbids.com/Karanji
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Karanji: When I first found out the great news that I was selected to be featured in your mag, I was really happy because to be honest, its been a challenge for an independent artist like myself to get press. So for you guys to give me the opportunity to interviewed was a great feeling for me. It let me know that I must be doing something right.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Karanji: Well to be honest, I have a bunch of musical goals for 2011 but if I had to narrow it down to two. Hmmmmm, I would have to say that the first one personally is to complete the recording of this next album. I have several tracks already that Im pretty sure are going to be on it but I really want this album to be as special and complete as possible. I really believe in taking time to produce good music and not rushing the process. My second major musical goal would probably be to get more major gigs for me and my band Soulwater this year. I already have two pretty big gigs lined up and would love to have more. The good thing about me being a teacher is that I have a lot time off to perform in the summer whether here in Detroit or out of state. So everybody look out for Karanji and the Soulwater band this summer coming to a city near you!
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Karanji: Hmmm, I would probably say consistency with performing. We don’t get to perform as much as I would like so it can throw things off a bit. With me doing a bit of fusion style of music with hip-hop and soul, I find sometimes that gig spots are not always clear as to where we fit but the good thing is that after we do perform, we always have gig spots requesting us back to perform. So being fresh and new has its advantages as well as it challenges sometimes but I embrace it all.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Karanji: Well one would have to be Eric Roberson. He’s a great neo-soul artist, who is also really down to earth. I had the chance to meet him while at my college homecoming in 2008 and we have been talking about doing a track together for a while now. I think now, I’m ready to go on head and send him a track for him to jump on so we set the world on fire.
The second independent artist I have a lot respect for one who is in my own camp. He goes by the name of Aaron Lamont and he is by far one of the best up and coming soul artists coming out of Detroit. He is featured on several of my tracks and almost always performs with me but also has some solo tracks which are killer as well. He also signed to my record label Onesoul Records (Detroit) LLC and is currently working on his upcoming project as well.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Karanji: Wow, that’s a loaded question. Im going to try and not be too wordy but to be honest, music is what makes me feel good every day. I tell people, I can go forever without TV but I couldn’t go a day without my music. Music has allowed me to paint a picture of a world that many do not see. Working here in the inner city of Detroit, I have heard and seen so much. This is especially true from my students whom I must give much of my credit to for inspiring a lot of my music. Just knowing that a song touched someone or made someone feel good when they were down is all the fulfillment I need. This selfless philosophy of music is almost lost these days it seems, with the whole world being so focused on material things and the outer. Every time I think of doing music, I think of how the greats did it. How did Marley do it, how did Stevie do it, how did the Begges do it, how did Micheal do it, how did Prince or Pac do it. When you listen to all of those greats music you can find so many songs that you can feel and to me music is about feel more than anything else. If you get a person to emotionally attach themselves to your music, you are doing something special that will not die as time goes on.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Karanji: Well coming up next for me is a big show at Pjs Lager House on April 8th here in Detroit. This show will not only feature me and my band Soulwater but will also feature several of Detroit’s top up and coming artist in hip-hop, soul, spoken word and b-boy dance. Also coming up this March will be the release of my record labels first compilation album which will have two of my songs featured. These songs, as well as others on the compilation, will available for download on Itunes and other major download sites at the time of release. There will also be a video for one the tracks coming this summer as well. Promotional info about all of my gigs and musical releases will be coming soon on Fusicology.com and various other website. So everybody stay tuned to Karanji because Im about to take you on a musical journey that you’ve never been on before. Online, I can be heard on Jango at www.jango.com/music/Karanji , my music Facebook page is coming soon as well, I also have music pages on Reverbnation, twitter @karanjiforeal, blackplanet at www.blackplanet.com/karanji and or course sonicbids at www.sonicbids.com/karanji . Finally my website will be up soon at www.karanji.com . Thanks again for everything. Much love for the support you are giving up and coming indie artist. Peace
Krista Parrish
www.sonicbids.com/KristaParrishMusic
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Krista Parrish: We were super excited! We’re doing everything we can to get our music out there and this is a great opportunity to reach indie music lovers.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Krista Parrish: We want to get back in the studio and work with a great producer out in LA that our label thinks would be a good fit for us. We released “Playing With Pendulums” in May of 2010 which is now being re-released on Cinderella Records but I’m a writing fanatic and have 30+ songs I want to record. Another goal that we and our label have is to collaborate with some more established artists in the industry which we are thrilled to get the opportunity to do.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Krista Parrish: PROMOTIONS. Self promoting can really take a toll after a while, it can take away from creative endeavors and good old fashion practice time. We now have a label backing us and a team of professionals which is a huge weight off our shoulders. By allowing our label to promote us worldwide, we can get our music in the ears of new fans quicker and focus on being creative and putting on a rockin’ show. I think 2011 will be a much more productive year for us as a band
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Krista Parrish: I love Andrew Bird. He is an amazing musician, writer and producer. “Anonanimal” is pure genius. He has a way of taking you on an intricate musical journey through his badass song arrangements. I’m kind of obsessed with The Local Natives. I dig their tribal drum beats, guitar work and writing. Their vocal tones blend beautifully & Cubism Dream is a gem of a song.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Krista Parrish: Playing music has been fulfilling in so many different areas of my life. I get to play music with my husband and connect with him creatively. I also get to connect with so many people whether it be a fan, another musician or a student, I’m always inspired & hopefully inspiring others. On a personal level, I get to express myself and find comfort in playing instruments, not just on stage in front of an audience but in my living room or just jammin’ with a friend. It’s like therapy for the soul.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Krista Parrish: I’ll be performing in the NY Songwriters Circle showcase at World Café Live in Philadelphia on March 2nd solo, my full band will be showcasing at Singer Songwriter Cape May March 25th, a music conference/festival in NJ, “Gods Of Indie Guitar” will be out in February (our song “Mexico” made it onto this worldwide distributed compilation album) and we will be playing a lot of cool music fests this summer. You can find our tour schedule at www.kristaparrish.com. We are on Pandora.com, itunes, amazon.com, cdbaby.com, facebook & myspace.
www.youtube.com/kristaparrish
www.myspace.com/kristaparrish
Rocquette
www.sonicbids.com/Rocquette2
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Rocquette: We were at the Treasure Island Hotel in Las Vegas at that time, just checking into the E-Mails quickly. When I spotted the answer, I yelled over to Thomas “Oh yeah man! Selected for the artist feature in Skope Mag!” and he turned round, looking at me and answering “Hey, awesome!!!”
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Rocquette: One goal is definitely another international tour. There are local shows on the schedule for the upcoming weeks, and some more performances across Europe currently under discussion. We would love to include the other continents, again or first time, too. Let ´s see where it takes us this time! Another goal are some more new songs during the next months.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Rocquette: Well, maybe a little help with organizational issues would be good – as a DIY band, there is all the “behind the scenes”-stuff that takes up most of our time. I feel that we could be much more efficient with spreading our music with some more hands e.g. on the computers, and what is more, we could be faster with the songwriting too. Currently, there ´s just so much to do, that we often have to leave the fun part (making music) for later, because things need to get organized first. And of course, it would – actually even help the issue too that I just talked about – great if we could make a living out of our music, and focus on doing what we love.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Rocquette: At first, of course there is Aerosmith – our all time heroes. They do have some mainstream songs, one might say – yes, of course. However, the majority is non-mainstream (last album was a blues album). Their songs are on air since ages, anywhere in the world, still gaining new fans! And it ´s one of the bands, I can listen to in nearly any mood, at every time of the day. We just love Aerosmith! Another band that is in heavy rotation of our players is definitely Airbourne. When the people around me had no idea who they are, I used to describe them as “AC/DC on speed”. By now, they made their name quite big, and they are playing the huge festivals, sending you home with an immense head-banging-pain (and, as they do sing too, “your ears bleed “) LOL
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Rocquette: It ´s the one thing that helps with everything :-) It let ´s you forget about problems, makes you happier, can make you even more sad when you ´re having a heart-ache, let ´s you fire-up your energy, or chill you out on a Sunday… It ´s like the air that we breathe.. always with us and we couldn ´t stand a day without!
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Rocquette: We are looking forward to some interviews on radios and TV shows, as well as some more performances. We are also working on a music video, our first one, which is a big deal to us :-) The easiest way to find us in the web is www.rocquette.net, it ´s our official website, and it ´s connected with a lot of other websites like our facebook profile, MySpace, iTunes, CDbaby and so on. By the way, we really appreciate comments, criticism, “likes” and all that stuff – the thoughts of our fans are the most important ones! So, to you all out there – just head over and feel free to fill up our pages!!! Make our day and our server crash :-) And if you want us to play a show in your area, let us know! We ´d love to make it happen! Keep on rockin ´!
Cynthia MacLeod
www.sonicbids.com/CynthiaMacLeod
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Cynthia MacLeod: I was excited! It’s always a thrill when someone takes notice of what you’re doing, and so rewarding when they’re offering an opportunity to spread the word.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Cynthia MacLeod: 2010 was a huge year for me, and I’m really focusing on keeping the momentum going in 2011. In the next year, I’d love to build fanbases in different parts of Canada and the US that I haven’t approached yet, so in order to accomplish that, I’d like to be touring as much as possible. I’m also focusing on incorporating more diversity in my show: more stepdancing, different instruments, and fresh show ideas to expand my audience outside of the “fiddle scene”.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Cynthia MacLeod: I would have to say the diversity that I mentioned earlier. Right now, we have a very solid, entertaining show, but I’d like to tear it apart and put something completely fresh and new together, incorporating different styles of music and different instrumentation. I’d like to have a more interactive stage show that appeals to a wide range of people.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Cynthia MacLeod: I’m very proud of where I come from; there is so much music coming out of Canada’s East Coast right now. I listen to a lot of East Coast artists, and lately, I’ve had David Myles’ album, “Turn Time Off”, on repeat. He’s such a captivating performer and articulate songwriter. I’m also a huge fan of Dave Gunning. Having worked with him on several occasions, I have so much respect for how hard he works and how much he loves doing music. And to top it off, both of these artists are genuinely two of the nicest people you’d ever meet.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life? Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Cynthia MacLeod: To put it simply, I’m not happy when I’m not playing music. A few years ago, I took about a year off from music and moved to Alberta, Canada, where I worked a few different jobs. I really wasn’t feeling like myself, so I decided in April 2008 to move back home to Prince Edward Island and pursue music full-time. I’ve never been happier, and now I know that even though there are ups and downs to the music industry, I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing, and that knowledge is very fulfilling.
Coming up in the next few months, I’ll be in Memphis, TN for Folk Alliance International; performing in Calgary, Alberta for St. Patrick’s Day; performing (and possibly winning an award!) at the East Coast Music Awards in Charlottetown, PEI; and performing in Havana, Cuba for CeltFest. I’m also working on a new CD/DVD tentatively called “Live at the Brackley Beach Ceilidh”, which I filmed and recorded last September.
You can find me online at www.cynthiamacleod.com. Plus, I’m on Twitter (@macleodmusic), Facebook (www.facebook.com/cynthiamacleodmusic), and MySpace (www.myspace.com/cynthiamacleodmusic), and ReverbNation (www.reverbnation.com/cynthiamacleod)
Nate Currin
www.sonicbids.com/NateCurrin
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Nate Currin: I was excited. Anytime I get the chance to promote the music, interact with new fans, etc. I am thrilled.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Nate Currin: First and foremost, I want to perform all over the country in as many cities/venues as possible. As of right now we have almost 60 gigs booked over the next 5 months, playing everywhere from California to New York and from Tampa to Austin. We’re also excited about 2 upcoming tours — a 3 week tour in May of the West Coast and a 2.5 week tour in July of the North East. Another top priority of mine over the next few months is my first music video. I’ll be flying out to L.A. In 2 weeks to begin shooting that, which will continue bit by bit over the next few months. “Goodnight California” – the title track from the new album — will be our first music video, and we’re all pretty excited about it!
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Nate Currin: Recently I’ve really been focusing on intensity, energy and stage presence. Myself and the guys (3 other band members) have been working on really creating more excitement while on stage and generating a buzz while we play. It’s more than just performing the songs — it’s believing what you’re singing/playing and emotionally connecting with the songs. I believe you as a musician have to do this before you can expect the fans to get emotionally connected themselves. So, not only at live shows, but also at rehearsal we’ve really been focusing on stepping up the “energy” through body-language, movement, etc. but also just “buying into” the song we’re performing.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Nate Currin: First I would have to mention the band “Frightened Rabbit” out of Scotland. I’ve been listening to these guys for a while now (3 albums worth of music), and they just keep getting better and better. I’ve seen them perform several times, and their energy and intensity is just electric. Front-man and lead singer, Scott Hutchison is certainly a guy that I look up and respect as a performer as well as a songwriter. I remember seeing these guys perform at the “Bowery Ballroom” in New York City a few years ago, and honestly it was one of the most enjoyable shows that I’ve ever been to. Another band/artist that comes to mind is Scott Thomas (and his band “Ringside”) – I’ve loved these dudes for years, but they went 5 years or more without and album — and I’m not even really sure if they were playing. Then recently, they just dropped a new record, and it’s fantastic — but the ability of someone like Scott (who did a solo project) to take all the time off, but still put out great tunes and come back strong (and still relatively under the radar) is an inspiration to me for sure!
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Nate Currin: Playing music certainly does bring joy and excitement — and I guess in a sense fulfillment. But the cool thing about playing and performing my music is getting to constantly meet new people and visit new places — both things that I love! And then to get to turn around and write about those experiences, which in turn make new songs that people enjoy, it’s just a cycle that is constantly fluid. Another important aspect in my writing is my faith — my personal faith in God — and being able to turn that into song (not just songs about the good — but songs about life: the dirty, the gritty, etc. – but all things that are orchestrated by Him), that creates another sense of fulfillment that is even harder to explain.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Nate Currin: There is a lot coming up for us. We’ve got several southeastern U.S. Shows scattered over the next months (Greenville, Tampa, Charlotte, etc.), but once again I leave in 2 weeks for L.A. For a bit to being filming, then right after that we head to South by South West (SXSW) in Austin for several gigs. Then in April I have the opportunity of performing on several radio shows in New York City — and doing an interview with legendary Steve Lillywhite on his show (Producer: U2, Rolling Stones, Peter Gabriel, Dave Matthews, etc.) – So, it’s definitely going to be a very busy spring for me.
I’d invite everyone to check us out online. You can find more info, news, tour schedule, etc. on the website: http://www.natecurrin.com and check out more music at http://www.facebook.com/natecurrin or http://myspace.com/natecurrinmusic. Thanks again to all our friends and fans who continually come and support us at shows! Hope to see you all very soon!
Kari May
www.sonicbids.com/KariMay
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Kary May: I was excited, of course! I was happy to see that people are actually out there and listening to my music. And that made me eager to work even harder on my singing career.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Kary May: I would like to work and improve on my voice and my music. By doing this, I will have a better project/CD next time. I also want to do more gigs so my music will reach out to more people in Pennsylvania, and across the world.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Kary May: I currently do not have a band, but as far as self-improvement goes, I want to make my voice better and stronger by practicing a lot more and also with my guitar for when I need to sing solo. But when I am with a band, such as my guitar teacher Andy Alonso and his son who plays the drums Andrew Alonso, we should work on our beginnings and our ends by practicing more and playing together at gigs around town.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Kary May: I am currently listening to Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert. The next album I do, I would like to combine the styles of Carries Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Gretchen Wilson, Martina McBride, Jessie James, and Shania Twain into a Cowgirl Tough collection. I respect all of these artists for their perseverance and hard work throughout the years; and their fan base they have received from their singing career.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Kary May: When I play in front of people, I see the smiles, enjoyment, and the look in their eyes that connects the listener to me and my music. This has been a fulfillment in my life that I will never give up on and I will never forget those moments when I have that one to one connection with my audience.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where are you at online?
Kary May: So far, I currently do not have any shows or gigs coming up but I will be sure to post it on my website www.karimay.com. I can also be found online at JangoAirplay, Indie-Music, iTunes, Amazon, Sonicbids, CDBaby, Digstation, and SingerUniverse Magazine top 5 vocalist for December 2010.
TENIN
www.sonicbids.com/teninmusic
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
TENIN: I was excited! I know that Skope is an amazing platform that is shedding light on bubbling-under artists around the world. I was truly honored to be added to the ranks.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
TENIN: In 2011 I am preparing to release an acoustic-soul EP that’s got a folkish-hip hop flair. I’m so excited about it because it’s all live instrumentation! It’s also a side of me that’s not yet been revealed. Too, in 2011 I look to tour Nigeria (I am Nigerian, lol). Thanks to divine intervention and Ojuko Olalekan my music has gotten great airplay, popular blog mentions and offers to work with a couple of Nigeria’s biggest artists. I really can’t wait to get there are be able to interact with that fan base.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that you must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
TENIN: I’ve got to get better at taking pictures (capturing moments), lol! I’m constantly performing and meeting people and never getting pictures with them. My team and I are always like “Remember the show at ‘Dot Dot Dot’? Yea! Do we have pictures?? Nah! Darn!” To do better I’ve decided that I’m going to travel with a photographer. Seriously. Leaving the personal responsibility of capturing great photo ops to someone else is going to help me a lot!
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
TENIN: Stenobot and Drew Seeley. Stenobot is an artist I came across by happenstance and his Gameboy/chip-hop music elated me. In his album “Sink or Swim We’ll Go Together” he infuses video game ticks with roomy synthesizers and it’s so awesome and moving. I actually did a remix to his song “Vincristine” and after I reached out to him, he was kind enough to offer the actual audio tracks to me so that I could better cater them to my version. I appreciated that. Drew Seeley is the other. He’s actually a known actor whose last EP I discovered. His soul-tinged pop music is sunshine-y and fun and danceable! He’s very atypical of what I usually love, but nonetheless sincere and meaningful.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
TENIN: I don’t diary and I don’t journal. Performing, playing and writing music has been the best closest confidant and therapy for me. I get to tell my stories (share my feelings) while inspiring others. I love the fact that music is so transcendent, and that what I write and perform can mean so much to someone on the other side of the globe. My job as an artist is important, and I don’t take it lightly. I’m responsible for empowering others to see the beauty in themselves, love God and be greater overall… That fulfills me to no end.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
TENIN: As we speak I’m preparing for my lead role in the upcoming feature film “Tucht”. I’ll be starring with Joe D’onofrio of Goodfellas and A Bronx Tale. My first film, it’s a very gritty movie about the psychological monster of child abuse and the deeply healing powers of love. I’m excited because I’m being coached by John Pallotta (Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Tracy Morgan) and the pre-buzz about it is growing. Anyone can learn more about it at www.TuchtTheMovie.com. The best place to find me is at www.teninworld.com; My website is my portal. Everything’s there!…And of course I’m on Facebook.com/OfficialTenin, Twitter.com/Tenin and iTunes.com/Tenin.
Cello Fury
www.sonicbids.com/cellofury
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Cello Fury: We were thrilled! Thanks, Skope, for the opportunity.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Cello Fury: We want to continue to collaborate with other artists, both in the rock world and across artistic disciplines. We feel that it’s not only really interesting on a musical level, but it showcases a different side of each group to the audience. Collaboration is so essential in the music world today. A second goal would be to tour much more outside of our home area of Pittsburgh, PA. Once we release our new self-titled album on February 23, we can’t wait hit the road and bring our music to more people!
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Cello Fury: We’d love to bring more theatrical elements to our shows to really give our audience a unique experience. Some ways to achieve this could be to add more multimedia (lights, visual/audio effects), as well as by performing our songs differently, not sounding identical to the album. This really creates excitement for an audience, when they hear songs they recognize, but with a twist.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Cello Fury: The Brooklyn-based band, Pearl & The Beard, is just fabulous. They are a folk/americana trio that features the cello prominently in their music, along with amazing vocals and a myriad of other instruments. Flannigan’s Right Hook is another great band. They’re from Kansas City, MO and play Celtic rock with guitar, violin, mandolin, drums and vocals.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
Cello Fury: Music is our life. When we’re not performing music, we’re teaching it, composing new pieces, or rehearsing together. We’ve been playing the cello since we were little kids in elementary school, and it has remained a vital part of our lives. One of the most rewarding things is working with young kids, introducing them to classical/rock crossover music and encouraging them to take up an instrument. It can be life changing for them!
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Cello Fury: We’ve got a big production at the Byham Theater in Pittsburgh, PA on February 18 & 19, a collaboration with a local dance company that features a score written and performed live by our band. It’s awesome to see our music brought to life with dance. You can check us out at www.cellofury.com, www.facebook.com/cellofury, and www.sonicbids.com/cellofury.
Kingnaldo
www.sonicbids.com/Kingnaldo
The Doll Sisters
www.sonicbids.com/TheDollSisters
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
The Doll Sisters: We were like “Whaaat??? No way!!!!” We didn’t expect to get in, and we were really excited! We also thought the questions were really cool :D
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
The Doll Sisters: Ha, it’s hard to nail down to two! I think our two goals are to get our CD finished, and to expand to a wider audience, through more touring around, and strengthening our online presence.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
The Doll Sisters: My sister and I think stage presence is really important, and connecting with your audience. We have been working at that a lot lately, with taking workshops and watching DVDs – that sort of thing. It’s a really important part of your show and can get neglected if you don’t work at it.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
The Doll Sisters: Well, first of all – we loved this question!! We usually just get asked who we like….. If you want to know about musicians that aren’t mainstream, Shelby would say how much she likes Alison Krauss and Union Station (VERY FAVE) and Patty Griffin. Jenna likes them and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings (we both like them :) – And altho’ they aren’t mainstream – we realize they are still very high profile groups. If we go even further away from the mainstream, we like Huckleberry Flint and Crooked Still.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
The Doll Sisters: We have found that it has been an amazing way to express our creativity and our personalities. When we started songwriting, that became even more apparent, because we have found that we each have different songwriting styles, and that’s been really fun. Music is such a rewarding thing to do, we have been able to take part in and experience things and meet people we never would have if we hadn’t been doing music. My sister and I were just saying to each other the other day, that if we’d known that we’d be doing the things we’re doing today, we’d have been so excited. It’s very cool!!!
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
The Doll Sisters: Oh Boy! We have a lot coming up….. we have a showcase at The Shell Theater in Fort Saskatchewan, a house concert in Edmonton, Alberta, The Canmore Folk Festival, playing for the Premier of Alberta, an Irish Ceili, The Telus Sounds of Science Center, Edmonton, AB, AHEA Convention, ‘Hark’ Christmas concert in Dec ’11…. and more.
You can find us online at: www.dollsisters.com
And from our website you can link up with all our social sites…. Facebook, Twitter, etc.
All of the dates of our upcoming gigs are on there as well.
77 Times
www.sonicbids.com/77Times
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
77 Times: We were just blown away, and so thankful to have been selected. Being just 14 & 15 years old, this is a huge honor for us! This should be a great way to boost our credibility as artists, and to gain the respect and attention of those in the industry who might think we are too young to be serious about our music.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
77 Times: We would really love to do some serious touring on both a regional and a national level. Given that we are all freshmen in high school, this has been a real challenge so far. We are exploring the option of online schooling to free up our schedules. As a band, we have had to overcome the major obstacle of our lead guitarist moving to St. Louis (6 hours away from the rest of us). We are able to get together about once a month…more in the summer…but time together is limited. We have to make sacrifices, and make the most of every hour we have together for writing new material and practice. Our second goal would be to finish recording our first full length professional album. We have recorded two EPs, and are currently in the studio working on a full length release.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
77 Times: Definitely marketing and promotions to build our fanbase. We are still learning all the tricks, and our time and resources are very limited. We know the opportunities are out there…we just have to learn how to find the good ones, and to get our name and our music out there. Being featured by Skope is an amazing chance to do just that, so thanks!
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
77 Times: Narrowing this down to just two bands is tough, because we listen to a lot of bands. But, we all really like the band 12 Stones. We are sometimes compared to them musically, and our style and message are similar to theirs. Our writing and our overall style is still evolving, but we do seem to be settling in to a style of our own. We also have been following a band from our hometown, Fort Wayne, IN, called Downstait. Like us, they started out pretty young, but have kept it together, got some big breaks, and have had some national success lately. They seem to be on their way to some big things, and we’re hoping to be able to learn from them.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fulfillment in your life?
77 Times: We really just feel so blessed to be able to pursue our dreams at such a young age. Music is our life. As freshmen in high school, it is pretty cool to have a clear vision of what we want to do in the future, and to be actively working toward accomplishing our goals and living those dreams. We feel like we have been given a calling…like this is what we were born to do. We just want to do everything we can to share our music and our message with the world.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
77 Times: We are competing in the Cornerstone Festival 2011 New Band Showcase right now, and will be competing in a couple of other Battle of the Bands competitions soon, one of which is for a slot at Ichthus Festival. We are playing some regional gigs, and are in the running for selection for a national tour this summer. We were scouted and asked to submit our application for inclusion on the tour, so hopefully that will all fall into place. We have been invited to attend a series of “closed door” artist development sessions in Nashville this May. At least some of us are planning to attend, and hope to be able to learn quite a bit and make some connections there. Aside from that, we are currently writing new music and are in the process of recording our new songs. We’re staying busy! You can check us out at www.reverbnation.com/77times , www.facebook.com/77times , www.myspace.com/77xxss , and http://twitter.com/77Times_band . We have a website, www.77timesband.com that is currently under construction, as well. And of course, you can check our full Sonicbids EPK at www.sonicbids.com/77Times .
Shazman
www.sonicbids.com/Shazman
Skope: How did you react when you knew you are now A2W selected on Skope?
Shazman: Surprised with a smile on the face. This is another opportunity for global exposure which helps me as an artist to gain more fans and makes it possible for people from all around the globe to get to know me.
Skope: What are two goals that you want to accomplish musically in 2011?
Shazman: For everyone to feel enlightened and inspired by my musical vibes and to enhance myself as an artist with the aim to start a Love, Peace & Unity tour around the world.
Skope: If you had to choose one thing that your band must improve on what would that be and how will you do it?
Shazman: Well, I will continue extending my vocal skills in order to reach new heights in the musical industry by putting in the time, energy & hard work that is required to reach that goal.
Skope: What are two other non-mainstream musicians or bands that you are listening to these days & respect?
Shazman: It’s hard to say…. I listen to a lot of different artists/bands and they all have something unique. I respect all artists that set goals and work hard to achieve it, however to choose two artists that I listen to a lot, I would have to say Jimmy Cliff for the positive layback vibes and Michael Jackson who is just the definition of greatness.
Skope: How has playing music offered more fullfillment in your life?
Shazman: It has brought endless joy in my life. For me it is a way to be creative and to share it with others. I see it more as a privilege to travel around the world and be not only an entertainer but a positive role model as well.
Skope: What is coming up for you & where you at online?
Shazman: The future looks very promising. There are a lot of project’s I’m working on which keeps me busy. There are also a few studio sessions scheduled with international artists which I am really looking forward to. The best spot to find out everything about me is Www.ShazmanOnline.Com. Links to Myspace, Twitter, Facebook, Sonicbids & Online Stores are all on there. The site is updated weekly to keep fans up-to-date with the latest on Shazman.
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