The Nightmare Before Christmas @ the Hollywood Bowl 10-28-23

 

Danny Elfman Brings the Nightmare Before Christmas Back to the Hollywood Bowl for 30th Anniversary Concert to Film Experience

 

Danny Elfman one of the most known composers of our time. Besides being a composer, but a musician in a band Oingo Boingo in the 1980s, to later doing acting work, aside from music being his main focus. He would compose countless films, teaming up with Tim Burton in a majority of them. One in fact, being highly popular over the year's, since releasing back in 1993, this being "The Nightmare Before Christmas". He sang for character Jack Skellington, whilst Chris Saradon did the voice work for the same character. As such, Danny Elfman would later take this character, and costars on an array of shows some taking place at the Hollywood Bowl in Hollywood, CA. After these shows were such a success, he would back away and say countless times that they would not occur ever again.

But demand was demeaned and more shows would span over the next few years. The 30th anniversary of the film would commence in 2023, and so would not one but three shows at the Hollywood Bowl, all three being completely sold out! Having attended the Saturday night performance, to a packed house, it was all smiles from ear to ear, with those big, small, old and young dressed up in the various characters, if not dressed up altogether it being a Halloween weekend after all.

PHOTOS:

The doors would open at 6PM with the show starting off after 8PM, fans drove and or rode to the venue, filed inside, grabbing food, drinks, merchandise, snapping photos, to settling down in their seats. Once the show began a little after 8PM, lights dimmed and the orchestration began, playing to a short cartoon film and then performing into the “Overture”, with the film being played soon after. Once the title began and the opening number “This Is Halloween”, begun, some actors walked onto the stage to sing their parts of said number, the movie playing out, as each different song was played by said actor in question. Danny Elfman did his parts in the various Jack Skellington songs, “Jack’s Lament”, “Whats This?”, “Poor Jack”, to name off a few. With the character Sally having her song be sung by a different actress than the one normally voicing her. This stand in did do a good job at taking over for this one night performance though, sounding just like Sally in minor voice work and singing of course. “Oogie Boogie’s Song” sung by Ken Page the man behind Oogie Boogie himself would come out in all green attire, singing his part, which all enjoyed! “Kidnap the Sandy Claws” featured Danny Elfman, and a replacement for Paul Reubens character Lock, whom RIP had his stand in do a good job regardless. While the rest of the film had finished off, having this night be quite mellow yet scary good.

All in all though, Danny Elfman and company, whose had some originals, some in passing, and some new comers as well, they brought their worth to the stage, and within this performance of concert to film, it being a staple to the Hollywood Bowl for sometime now, and perhaps many more years to follow perhaps.

MACHINE HEAD - ANNOUNCE SLAUGHTER THE MARTØUR NØRTH AMERICA 2024 WITH DIRECT SUPPORT FEAR FACTORY

 

 

 

In an electrifying announcement that will cause anticipatory convulsions through the world of metal, Bay Area icons MACHINE HEAD have announced the first leg of their 'Slaughter The Martøur Nørth America 2024’ tour. Forgoing their “An Evening With…” format for the first time in a decade, MACHINE HEAD will have LA’s cyber-metal masters FEAR FACTORY, Sweden’s ORBIT CULTURE, and Louisville, KY’s GATES TO HELL in tow guaranteeing your 2024 starts off as heavy as humanly possible!

'Slaughter The Martøur Nørth America 2024’ will kick off with a “hometown” show for MACHINE HEAD, their first since 2020 in San Francisco on January 19th. Then the tour heads north with shows in the Pacific Northwest as well as eight shows in Canada. Other stops include Chicago, Orlando, and Houston before concluding in Los Angeles on February 24th at The Bellwether.

MACHINE HEAD’s founder Robb Flynn states, "Head Cases! This will be the greatest metal tour on earth! So stoked to be getting back on the road in America/Canada with 4 masters of soul-crushing heaviness and an absolutely earth-shattering bill. Fear Factory has long been our brothers-in-arms, pioneers, and innovators of a sound that had yet to exist. Orbit Culture are the fast-rising Swedish modern metal maniacs bringing their unique spin to the world, and Gates To Hell absolutely blew my mind at Milwaukee Metalfest with their sheer savage brutality. North America, we’re ready to crush skulls, crush beers, and crush everything in our path!

FEAR FACTORY's Dino Cazares comments, “We are honored to be touring with the mighty Machine Head. We came up in the metal scene together and both bands have stamped their mark in modern metal, plus Robb has been a good friend of mine for close to 30 years. We are fucking excited for the metal fans to see this amazing package and we can’t wait to get out there. Let’s Fucking Rage!"

Says ORBIT CULTURE, "It is such an honor for us to be going on tour with Machine Head and Fear Factory across North America, we look forward to bringing you all our brand of metal. Beware of the antlers North America!”

GATES TO HELL comments, “Machine Head was one of the bands that inspired Gates to Hell to form. They’re a personal favorite to several of us. Out of all the tours we’ve had the opportunity to be a part of over the past year, this is definitely the one we’ve been most excited for. Very excited to share the stage with Machine Head, Fear Factory, and Orbit Culture.”
 
This tour promises to be an unforgettable experience for all metalheads in North America. Prepare for an onslaught of sonic intensity as these 4 bands unite for what will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about metal tours for years!

 Tickets & VIP: www.machinehead.vip)

Confirmed dates for MACHINE HEAD's 'Slaughter The Martøur Nørth America 2024’ with direct support FEAR FACTORY as well as ORBIT CULTURE, and GATES TO HELL are:

TOUR DATES:

01.19.2024 US   San Francisco, CA - The Warfield
01.21.2024 US   Portland, OR - Roseland Theater
01.22.2024 US   Seattle, WA - Showbox
01.23.2024 CA   Vancouver, BC - Commodore
01.25.2024 CA   Edmonton, AB - Midway Music Hall
01.26.2024 CA   Calgary, AB - Grey Eagle Casino
01.27.2024 CA   Saskatoon, SK - Coors Event Centre
01.28.2024 CA   Winnipeg, MB - Burton Cumming Theatre
01.30.2024 US   Minneapolis, MN - Skyway Theatre
01.31.2024 US   Chicago, IL - Concord Music Hall
02.01.2024 US   Pittsburgh, PA - Roxian Theatre
02.02.2024 US   Northfield, OH - MGM Northfield Park
02.03.2024 US   Detroit, MI - St. Andrews
02.05.2024 CA   Toronto, ON - The Opera House
02.06.2024 CA   Montreal, QC - M'Telus
02.07.2024 CA   Quebec City, QC - Theatre Capitole
02.08.2024 US   Boston, MA - Paradise Rock Club
02.09.2024 US   Bethlehem, PA - Wind Creek Event Center
02.10.2024 US   New York, NY - Palladium Times Square
02.12.2024 US   Silver Spring, MD - The Fillmore Silver Spring
02.14.2024 US   Atlanta, GA - Masquerade (Heaven)
02.15.2024 US   Orlando, FL - House Of Blues
02.17.2024 US   Austin, TX - Emo's
02.18.2024 US   San Antonio, TX - Aztec
02.19.2024 US   Houston, TX - House Of Blues
02.21.2024 US   Englewood, CO - Gothic Theatre
02.22.2024 US   Albuquerque, NM - Sunshine Theater
02.23.2024 US   Mesa, AZ - Nile Theater
02.24.2024 US   Los Angeles, CA - The Bellwether

It’s Not a Rumor! AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE Returns with New Single, “No Pain No Gain”

 

After nearly 10 years of absence, the world’s most brutal band has muscled their way back into the scene with a brand new single, “No Pain No Gain”, alongside a new music video. With a new album planned in 2024 and a new worldwide contract inked with premier Austrian rock and metal empire Napalm Records, AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE are baaaaack… and it’s been worth the “weight”!

AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE, the unmissable project of As I Lay Dying frontman Tim Lambesis, launched 15 years ago as a one man band - triumphing as the metal scene’s newest obsession with their 2008 debut album, 'Total Brutal'. After releasing two more acclaimed albums in 2009 and 2014, the one man band did the impossible - they broke up. After a decade of regrowth and rebirth, and with the help of good friends by his side, Lambesis finally felt inspired to work on new music for the project - eventually emerging as the collaborative, recharging effort it was always meant to be. Now, the band prepares for the release of their upcoming fourth album, currently circling a 2024 release date.

Providing a powerful sample of what's to come, “No Pain No Gain” features special guest vocals from pro-bodybuilder Craig Golias and a searing guitar solo from axe god Angel Vivaldi. The aggressive metalcore track punches like Ahhnold himself with charging riffs and addictive melody. Don’t skip this blistering burner (or leg day, for that matter), and get shredded to “No Pain No Gain” naaaughhh!!!!

AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE mastermind Tim Lambesis offers:

“This upcoming album - it is the heaviest of them all. Ahhnold told me to make it more brutal, and so of course I listened. For music production nerds, it's also a more modern style of production than what you may be used to with this band, but still retains my thrash roots - which you can hear on ‘No Pain No Gain’. Anyway, Ahhnold told me I've really grown up and come into my own as a well oiled machine… but he also said to destroy the machines, so I'm a little confused…

"Also, I'm honored to be working with Napalm Records! Besides Napalm having such a powerful global presence and an incredible staff, Ahhnold told me we had to sign based on the brutality of the name alone. Like 80's action and Ahhnold, it is the perfect combo.”

Thomas Caser, Napalm Records Managing Director/Head of A&R, adds:

“Adapted from the famous Arnie/Terminator slogan ‘I’ll be back’, AUSTRIAN DEATH MACHINE is finally back after over a decade, returning with their most brutal and fun output ever!”

 Watch the Protein-Packed New Music Video for “No Pain No Gain” right HERE.

Esprit D'Air Releases Iron Maiden Cover Video for "The Trooper" feat. Tim "Ripper" Owens and Ben Christo

 

Esprit D'Air has released a cover of Iron Maiden’s classic track ‘The Trooper’, featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens (KK’s Priest, ex-Judas Priest) on guest vocals, and Ben Christo (The Sisters of Mercy) on guitar to commemorate the 40th anniversary of its release.

Kai’s vocal video cover of ‘The Trooper’ on TikTok gained attention from Iron Maiden’s Official account stating, “Great Cover ??”, which inspired him to make it an official licensed release with Esprit D'Air. The release is accompanied by a music video filmed and edited by Charlie Smith of MindArtVisual, who produced all the music videos for KK's Priest.

Vocalist and guitarist Kai says:

“Like many metalheads, I was introduced to heavy metal with Iron Maiden. They are one of the biggest reasons why I am making music.
Like for many metalheads, "The Trooper" was one of the first heavy metal songs I got into. I am honoured to team up with both Ripper and Ben on this to commemorate its 40th anniversary with our own version!
We also wanted to respect the original version but also make it our own, so Ben and I wrote our own guitar solos in it.”

Watch 'The Trooper' (official music video):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4X1Ic13pxAI.

IronWrath Releases New Video

 

American Heavy Metal band IronWrath, has never been a band to stray away from controversial topics when it comes to God or Freedom. The Band drives this point home with their second follow-up music video to their groundbreaking debut album "Master Storyteller" called "Tyranny." The new music video is directed by multi-award-winning filmmaker and Band’s producer C.G. Ryche. The message of the video is powerful and timely, exposing the abuse of power by the federal government and the importance of fighting for our God-given rights.

Check out the video linked below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CBzmonLcZo

Known as the "Cinematic Masters of Metal," the band is praised for their visionary media, powerhouse performances, and stadium-style metal. IronWrath is influenced by many artists from various genres, including Marilyn Manson, Metallica, Linkin Park, and Killswitch Engage, with a touch of Tool, Rob Zombie, and Nine in Nails to make your skin crawl.

IronWrath is a Cinematic Heavy Metal band known for its theatrical media, powerhouse performances, and stadium-style metal. Members of the Band include C.G. Ryche (Producer / Drums), Sean Silas (Lead Guitar), Steve Bell (Rhythm Guitar / Vocals), Johnny Blackout (Bass), and Anton Petrenko (Vocals).

Check out the album linked below:

https://open.spotify.com/album/4xEF0aEhvyNnwYu4BZJ13w

THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT RELEASE NEW EP ‘SOUNDS FROM BEYOND THE ABYSS (VOL. 1)’ AND SHARE NEW COVER VIDEO OF TEARS FOR FEARS "MAD WORLD"

 

THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT are getting listeners in the mood for Halloween season by releasing a new EP SOUNDS FROM BEYOND THE ABYSS (VOL.1) via Better Noise Music. The four-track EP, out today (Friday, October 13), features four occult-driven tracks which cater to the band’s potent blend of modern rock anthems molded with emo and pop-punk theatrics. Of the four tracks, two are covers of iconic songs from artists that have inspired THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT’s vibrant sound: Radiohead’s “Creep” (released this past August in partnership with The Hot Topic Foundation to support non-profit music, art, LGBTQ+ and mental health organizations for youth and teens) and Tears For Fears’ “Mad World.” Stream and/or download SOUNDS FROM BEYOND THE ABYSS (VOL.1) now at https://thefuneralportrait.ffm.to/sfbtavol1.

“’Sounds From Beyond The Abyss (Volume 1)’ was designed to be a fun departure, something to hold over fans while we finish up the steps towards our full record release,” shares vocalist LEE JENNINGS. “Within the lore of our band; it represents secret tracks, hidden away to be discovered by some unlucky Samaritan. Occult sounds meant to hypnotize the listener with music from an alternate reality. Which is to explain the case of covers & alternate versions of original songs. A ‘what if?’ scenario for our fans and ourselves.”

“Anyone who has met the band for more than 45 seconds can tell that we’re all big Donnie Darko fans, so when the question of a new cover came up, ‘Mad World’ was an obvious answer,” says JENNINGS. “Drawing more from the Gary Jules rendition than the Tears For Fears original, this cover of ours is all about the mood and vibe. Finding the balance between capturing the essence of The Funeral Portrait alongside the Samhain spirit for Halloween was the tightrope we had to walk and we’re very happy with the outcome.”

THE FUNERAL PORTRAIT have shared a lyric video for their hypnotizing “Mad World” cover, released today alongside the SOUNDS FROM BEYOND THE ABYSS (VOL.1) EP. Watch it streaming now via YouTube below or HERE.

LUTHARO Sets The Race Track On Fire With New Single And Hilarious Music Video "Born To Ride"

 

Canadian heavy metal sensations LUTHARO are revving up the excitement as they unleash their latest single and music video, "Born To Ride." Known for their electrifying sound and dynamic performances, LUTHARO is taking their fans on a wild and hilarious ride with their new video, featuring an epic go-kart race between the band members.

We are super excited to announce the release of our killer new single “Born to Ride”!" the band shares."This song is contagiously catchy and exploding with feel good energy from start to end! It’s more on the cheerful side than our previous releases but still kicks SO much ass!"

Watch the "Born To Ride" music video or stream the track now: https://lutharo.afr.link/borntoridePR.

Alacrán Releases New EP

 

Spanish Heavy/Speed Metal band Alacrán released their new EP "Luzifer". The release was recorded in the band's home studio and mixed/mastered by Christian Oliva and Diego Lafuente, both members of the band.

Check out the new album linked below:

https://open.spotify.com/album/4B3IC3Zz99e82iDJ6EBCF7

Alacrán was formed in 2012 at Zaragoza, Spain by Sergio "Cachorro" (Vocals), Christian "Oli" (Guitars), Jorge "Judío" (Drums) and Diego "Petroski" (Bass). In 2018, after Jorge's departure, the band was joined by Roberto "RK" and the current lineup was completed. The band released 2 EP's ''Alacrán'' (2014) and ''Siempre en la Brecha'' (2016).

THE CONVALESCENCE Share New Single "79 Years"

 

The Convalescence’s new album, Harvesters Of Flesh & Bone, has put itself in the running for one of the most buzzed about new metal albums of 2023! Blogs and magazines from all across the metalsphere have been hailing the arrival of the album and pushing the singles up the charts (“Undead Swarm” went Top 10 on the iTunes Metal Chart). Today marks the next step, another single from the album, “79 Years,” that will get your blood pumping faster than you can say “Happy Halloween!”

Fittingly, the band seems to have saved its most brutal track for release during this darkest of all seasons. “79 Years” wastes no time in getting to its vicious musicality and terrifying lyrics that evoke images of abduction and abuse, “Hear the torture beneath the floor, Shackled and screaming paired with savage beatings.” But the band knows that the most hideous and horrid of all beasts is the one that lies within, or as the song’s refrain puts it, “How can we live with what we’ve become.”

Stream/download the single:  https://orcd.co/theconvalescence_79years.

One Fall Talks of New EP, Newer Music Planned Out and Shows Set As Well!

 

Melodic punks ONE FALL have not one but two EP's, with even newer material being worked on currently! They even have some shows set for them to play as well. The band talks about music, shows, and more planned out all below.

 

1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

ONE FALL is a melodic punk band from Salem, MA which features Helen McWilliams (Tijuana Sweetheart, Petty Morals) on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Caleb Wheeler (Razors in the Night, Giant Target) on drums, Darren Lourie (Meliah Rage) on bass, and Phill Hunt (Drug Blood, Giant Target) on lead guitar. We released our first EP in November 2022 and played our first show in December 2022.

2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?

ONE FALL is a professional wrestling reference! We’re pretty passionate about wrestling, especially smaller local companies. Also AEW.

3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?

We’re from Salem, MA which is about half an hour north of Boston. The scene up here on the North Shore and in the Boston area is incredible – there are seriously so many great bands it’s hard to only pick a few to call out. Our best pals Oh the Humanity! are absolute riff lords. Brix’x Mortar are from Salem and they serve up a new breed of oi!/hardcore that is hard to pin down, in a good way. And of course we’re influenced by bands like No Trigger and A Wilhelm Scream that are from a little farther away.

4. How would you describe your style?

We think of ourselves as somewhere in the melodic punk/melodic hardcore/skate punk camp – we are drawing from a lot of different influences, but we do love skate rhythms, riffy guitars, and busy bass parts. Helen’s vocals add something new – maybe it makes us sound a little different than other bands in this genre.

5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?

Our initial self-titled EP was released in Nov 2022 and folks had a bigger reaction to those three tracks than we had expected, considering we recorded it in the basement. Our new 5-song EP is called Spine First! and launches Friday 10/20/23.

6. Do you have any new music in the works?

Yes, we are working on a bunch of new material and plan to get back in the studio soon!

7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?

We are lucky enough to be opening for The Iron Roses this Friday for their record release show in Richmond, VA – which is coincidentally the same day we’re launching our EP. Then we’re psyched out of our minds to be playing The Fest in Gainesville, FL. We plan to do some touring next year and would love to hit some new spots.

8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?

We’re gonna try to put out a bunch more music next year and visit as many places as possible!

9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

You can find us on Bandcamp for music and merch, or you can stream our music anywhere.

10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

We just hope they take away the sincere heart and intention we put into the music and hope they hear an aspect – a musical element or a lyric -- that means something to them.

Madness At Home Talks of New Ideas, Music, and Shows Coming Soon!

 

Post hardcore punks MADNESS AT HOME have two releases under their belts, an EP and an album, with them in the process of working on all new songs and ideas for the next release. They have some shows set with much else in the works. See what else the band discusses about all below.

 

1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

We are Madness at Home and we definitively formed as the band we are in the summer of 2019. I was playing guitar since not long time ago and a few years before, in a moment of my life when I have experienced a lack of incentive and when I had no means of release from usual routine, I decided to form a band.

Initially, I replied to an ad of two guys who were searching for a guitarist and a vocalist and we started playing Doom music with a little bit of Stoner influences. We were mainly writing songs only for fun and playing music for escaping rage and frustration. After a while, our first drummer left the band and I’ve decided to get in touch with Giulio, who I’ve known for a long time and with whom I had been playing
since we met; his way of playing and grooving has developed and increased the sound of the band, and thanks to his countless and different experiences as a musician, rythmic and music has blended together quite well; also songs has began to achieve sense and way.

When our bass player also was leaving, we decided to look for another one; we replaced a few bass players, and then we finally ran into Andrea via internet on the summer of 2019.

He played Blues, Country and Hair Metal, but we’ve found, especially in Grunge, Post Hardcore and Stoner music, a leading point of contact between us. Andrea has brought about this kind of chaotic and cheerful mood to the band that we were looking for. We’ve started writing our first songs together and playing in some clubs in Rome. Then, when coronavirus began to spread around the world, our first works have come out.

2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?

 The origin of our band's name is from the first's song title I brought to the studio; we’ve never played it live but we’ve chosen it because it had the right tremblings. I always meant to change the band’s name through the years because I hate it, but despite that it has always been this and the meanings it gave to us are increased and evolved throughout the years.

3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?

We are based in Rome. The local musical scene here is very divided; there are a lot of Metal, Stoner and Hardcore bands, but there are much less opportunities for more ibrid sound bands. In the last years despite more live clubs have closed due to pandemic, some different and interesting bands are emerging: Charlie Tonight, I Maiali, MindKnot, Kazak.

4. How would you describe your style?

Our sound it’s a mix of Post Punk and Post Hardcore with Grunge, Noise and Sludge influences. We take a lot of our sound from all the ’90 alternative scene, especially Amphetamine Reptile and Touch and Go Records, mixed with many of post noughties listening.

5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?

We released our first EP in the peak of pandemic on winter 2020 and our first LP on October 2022 in partnership with Overdub Recording. I would like to describe the music we recorded as common melodies rejected through obsessiveness and noise.

6. Do you have any new music in the works?

If we will feel the need to write another album, we will probably record it. In these days we are working on new songs and ideas.

7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?

It’s absolutely a cliché but the live concert aspect is where we feel more comfortable; we are very fulfilled only when we could play our music, even in front of only one person. We have recently also started playing our first album out of Rome and all the whole experiences are going back to us touring, being a company and have the opportunity to run into other realities, are enhancing and motivating ourselves.

For now we have three gigs scheduled: on November 3th at Defrag in Rome, where just one years ago we presented our first album “Shoelace”, and two gigs in the south of Italy: on November 24th at Baraccio in Catania and on November 25th at Interzone in Reggio Calabria.

8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?

We honestly have not clear plans for the future, but playing our album wherever we can and embracing the changes that repeatedly could happen to our music and our lives.

9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

We are on the main social media as Instagram and Facebook and on the most important platforms as Youtube and Spotify. People can physically buy our albums at our live concerts or in digital format on Bandcamp, Deezer, Apple Music, iTunes Music and Amazon Music.

10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

I don’t think there’s anything in particular we would like our listeners to remember but I think we would like to give honesty and a comforting and cathartic perception to them. 

Good Time Locomotive Talks of Music, Music, and Yes Music!

 

Pop rock act GOOD TIME LOCOMOTIVE have a handful of tracks out and about, with all new music as well. They have plans to eventually aim towards the stage and perform, with a lot else in-store! The band talks about music for the most part, and other plans in the works.

 

1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

GTL was born out of the darkness of the covid lockdown via a musical bond forged online between James Phillips and fellow musical wanderer and frontman Hugo Leite. With a soaring passion for emotionally charged music and its intoxicating, transformative power to change human life for the better! 💪

Having never met in person, and armed with nothing other than zoom, time and a passionate drive to create vocals to match the emotional punch of the music James and Hugo found that magical musical 🧨, and the unique, eclectic and emotive sound of GTL was born! 🥳

All hail the power of the internet! 🌏

2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?

Good time - Elation, joy, happiness 😁

Locomotive - Movement 🚄

*It is also a line from one of our songs.

3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?

We are based in London and yet to venture out onto the live scene in a big way. We have however got a lot of bands in our circle on social media, some of which are from the London area (Misery Kids for example) who we will most definitely be moving heaven and earth to play with when we have the live line up ready to roll!

4. How would you describe your style?

I have often toyed with coming up with a unique distinction because, I know this sounds cliché, but I really don’t know a band who sounds just like us. There is always a rich emotive quality to the odd chords we use which I think is one of the reasons for this. Maybe we could be classed as ‘Emoto-pop’ …. yeah, Emoto-pop’...Lets go with that! 😁

5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?

We have 4 songs out to date with the 5th dropping on Halloween and the last one for our debut EP at Christmas. It will be called ‘Devils and Angels’. Which when you think about it, is probably the most accurate song title to be a Christmas song in the history of Christmas songs! ;)

6. Do you have any new music in the works?

Always! We have a truckload of ideas, us singing things into our phones as well as a further 7 tracks after this initial 6 to put out in 2024!

7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?

We have been focused almost exclusively on the writing, studio recording and promotional materials for the songs so far. We are now starting to piece together the musicians to play with us live so we can get out there and see the whites of peoples eyes at a gig. There is simply nothing like it! Bring on the touring! 💪

8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?

To change the course of musical history! ;) Pompous spinal tap esc jokes aside, we just want to take what we believe are some special songs that have a deep musical and emotional quality to them with a positive message out to the world and enjoy the ride….whatever that is and wherever it takes us.

9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

Please visit our linktree for all things GTL and we look forward to you hopping aboard the locomotive!

https://linktr.ee/goodtimelocomotive

Merch to follow soon.

10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

The name … so they can go on about the impact we had on them to everyone they know until they annoy them so much that they too become infected….mwa ha ha ha! :)

Bridge The Gap Discusses New Single, Recent Album And More!

 

 Melodic punk rock band BRIDGE THE GAP take these genres and some skate punk elements, to create their own genre they consider music! With that they have released an album, and have all new music, with a single coming up this holiday season as well. The band discusses their music creativity, new music, and much more.

 

1. Please tell us about the history of your band and its members.

We were in a band together for a long time 20 years ago. We toured and put out records for about 10 years then called it quits. We got jobs and started families. We reconnected a couple years ago and started a new band. Bridge The Gap.

2. What’s the origin of the band’s name?

I can’t say for sure. But we like what it means. Bridging the gap, overcoming the obstacle. It’s an optimistic representation of what we believe in as a band.

3. Where is the band based out of and what is your music scene like there? Are there any local bands you could recommend?

Some of us live in Utah, some in Colorado. We do a lot of our writing separately, then get together to rehearse and perform. There’s a cool band in Salt Lake City, where two of us live, called White Noise Vision. Check ‘em out.

4. How would you describe your style?

Our sound his the ‘90s melodic punk rock that we grew up listening to and playing (we’re in our 40s) with a little bit of a new spin on it. Skatepunk.

5. What have you released so far and what can someone expect from your works?

Bridge The Gap has released one album, earlier this year, entitled ‘Secret Kombinations’ on People of Punk Rock Records. The album was recorded at The Blasting Room in Fort Collins, CO, and was produced by Bill Stevenson (Rise Against, Hot Water Music, Descendents). If you like bands like Bad Religion, No Use For A Name, Strung Out, and Pennywise, you’ll probably dig BTG.

6. Do you have any new music in the works?

We do. We have a new single dropping on Halloween and we’re going back to The Blasting Room to record a new full-length album in February 2024.

7. How about playing shows and touring, have anything planned out?

We’ve been playing a few shows but no tours yet. At this stage, we’re taking it as it comes and looking for good booking representation. None of us are in a position to do what we used to and hop in a van for 30 days and try to book shows across the Fruited Plain ourselves. We’re too busy with our families and whatnot. So we’re looking for the right opportunities. But we’ve had several offers to tour. It just hasn’t lined up yet.

8. What plans do you have for the future as a band?

We’re going to put out a new record in 2024 and do a lot more live stuff to support it and Secret Kombinations. That includes touring the U.S., Canada, and hopefully, Europe.

9. Where can we listen to your band and where can we buy your stuff?

Search Bridge The Gap on any streaming service and find Secret Kombinations. Buy merch, LPs, and CDs at bridgethegapmerch.com.

10. What is it you’d like a listener to remember the most when hearing your music for the first time?

That it’s just music. 

Metal Swap Meet's Brian Discloses the Details on the San Diego Successor with Many More Years on the Horizon!

 

Swap meet, flea market, whichever preferred is an outdoor market, with numerous vendors selling various items. But there is one take on these markets known as a "Metal Swap Meet", taking place out on the West Coast down in sunny Southern California in San Diego! Happening down at the Protector Brewery, every year, once a year is when it takes place, having metal, food, and bands perform as well. One (Brian) out of the two (Israel) does the disclosed details about this yearly event, that has been actively doing well over the past 12 years! See what is all said from this conversation below.

 

1. To those who may not be familiar, is this a swap meet and or flea market?

Both! I guess it depends on where you come from. I believe they are pretty much the same. Here in San Diego, we have many swap meets. The biggest one is Kobey's Swap Meet in the Sports Arena parking lot. It's a big market where anyone can reserve a space to sell things. On the east coast, they are often called flea markets.

2. Who came up with the idea to create the "Metal Swap Meet" version of a swap meet and why go through with it?

It was mine [Brian]. I worked at a metal record store called Blue Meannie Records. When it closed, I felt there was a void for people to buy and sell metal related merchandise, as well as a place where people could meet up and hang out. I then pitched the idea to my buddy Israel, and he agreed to help me bring the idea to life. We then planned the first one out, and the very first one was in my driveway with about a dozen vendors, and over 200 attendees.

3. How long has this event been taking place and whereabouts?

This will be our 12th one. We missed one year because we needed a break, and missed 2020 due to the pandemic. The first one was in 2009.

4. Have you considered expanding it to reach other areas perhaps?

We have been approached, but we work full time jobs, and we feel the only reason it works here in San Diego, is because we live here. There have been many events in other locations that have popped up, and are similar, so we will leave it to them.

5. Why do you think this particular event has gotten so popular year after year?

It's a unique event. We have over 70 vendors, beers, food, all ages, and some amazing bands for a very reasonable price. It's a fantastic time, and I think anyone who has attended, often tell their friends about it.

6. When it comes down to the actual event what takes place there?

It's a party to celebrate metal for everyone. People come dressed up as vikings, King Diamond, or any of their favorite band members. It's damn good fun! There have been couples who have met, bands who have been formed, and vendors who have gotten their start, all at Metal Swap Meet. I often wonder how many kids get inspired to listen to, and learn to play metal music, from visiting Metal Swap Meet. There's tons of merch, music, bands, and friends.

7. If someone wanted to be a vendor how do they go about's setting that up?

We have vendor spots available on our Eventbrite page https://sdmetal2023.eventbrite.com.

8. Is this an all ages event that all can attend and enjoy?

Absolutely! This event welcomes all ages!

9. Throughout the years of running it, has there ever been an incident both good or bad that has happened?

So many! Having Phil Anselmo [Pantera], Bill Metoyer [Slayer producer], Katon W. de Pena [Hirax], Derek Riggs [original Iron Maiden artist] there have been amazing. Also being able to have bands like Exhumed, Cattle Decapitation, Jag Panzer, Evildead, and Night Demon are highlights for me.

10. What sort of vendors are set up at this event, what can people expect upon walking in?

It's a varied mix of people selling metal merch like CDs, vinyl, patches, and shirts. There are also hand-made leather goods, art, horror movies, women's clothing, wood art, and so much more. Of course we have food provided by Full Metal Burgers, Mr. G's Salsa, Deli Sushi & Desserts, and Jaunt Coffee Roasters.

11. Can we ever expect an Los Angeles version of this swap meet to ever take place, aside from its home turf in San Diego?

Our friend Kim, who has been a vendor in the past, has started something similar in Los Angeles called the Metal Merchants. Check it out!

12. Where can one purchase tickets if online or can they be bought at the door?

Tickets will be available at https://sdmetal2023.eventbrite.com up until a week or so before the event. They can also get VIP tickets on that link where they can get in an hour early, and reserve a shirt. Tickets will also be available at the door for $20.  

13. Have you thought up what will happen for the next years?

I wish I thought that far ahead, but no. Maybe Iron Maiden? But seriously, we are just two guys that have a hell of a support staff around us, and we normally start planning the next year a few months after the event. We don't feel a need to top ourselves, just to provide a nice event that people enjoy. We have been fortunate to have had such great support from so many friends, and are thankful to have met so many amazing metal fans over the last 12 years.

Dethklok @ YouTube Theater 10-11-23