Now featuring JOSH HURT!! If you like catchy music, then Josh is the guy for you. Make sure to stop by his Myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/joshhurtmusic) because you do NOT want to miss out.
Here is the making of the video for Josh's newest single, "Midnight Racer". The official video will be released on Sept. 7.
Interview with Jen Andujar and Josh Hurt.
Before we start, can you quickly introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello, everyone! My name is Josh Hurt, Urban Pop artist hailing from Dallas, TX.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Michael Jackson and Beyonce have not only influenced my music, but also my performances.
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a musician?
Singing in the church choir around the age of 4, and not wanting to hand the mic to the next "soloist" made me realize I wanted to be a major performer when I grew up.
If you had one hour to spend with any musician (dead or alive), who would it be and what would you do?
It would of course be with my favorite, Beyonce. I would love to just get some musical advice from her, and just tips to be a better artist.
What 5 CDs/albums do you feel are the most influential ever made?
Michael Jackson- Thriller Beyonce- Dangerously in Love Lauryn Hill- The Miseducation Prince- Purple Rain Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers- Greatest Hits
You recently made a video for your single "Midnight Racer". Can you talk a bit about the shoot? How long did it last? What were some highlights?
The shoot was all shot at night on two separate days. It was a lot of fun, and the energy was very high. Everyone was very positive and focused about being the video an event!
Other than music, what are your interests/hobbies?
I love to eat and workout. Swimming is also a very fun past time, but I don't get out in the sun as much as I used to.
What's the most played song on your iPod? I do tons of cardio during my workout, so I must listen to Beyonce's "Crazy in Love" to keep my energy high!
If you could be rich OR be a musician-which would you choose?
A musician, because I rather be wealthy than rich.
What is your favorite color m&m?
Yellow, especially for the m&ms with the nuts. But, they all taste the same!
What's one random fact that not many people know about you?
I am a very goofy person, but do not always literally "laugh out loud" at what I think is funny.
You are stuck on a deserted island. What are three things you can’t live without?
My Bible, my Blackberry, and my bottled water. I love water more than anything!
Any last thoughts before we wrap this interview up?
I really enjoyed this interview, and I hope to have another one with you all very soon! To the fans who want more updates, follow me at: http://www.twitter.com/JoshHurtMusic!
From the ethereal artwork and exotic cover photography, this EP, ‘happiness + victory’ transcends the everyday and leads the listener down a mystical labyrinth of song. Bells, chimes, and an aura of enchantment open the disc, with an Eastern backbeat reminiscent of Loreena McKennitt . Donna could easily be singing this first track, ‘Who’, in the forest shown on the CD cover. The second tune, a song dying to hit radio- ‘Stone’ switches gears into a bit of British pop influence worthy of Lulu’s ‘The Boat That I Row’. ‘Changing Man’ follows, follows with a hint of Latin rhythm and spectacular guitar work. The next song is ‘Home’ which tells of a philosophical quest with a beautiful lyrical arrangement. The EP closes with ‘Hello Shanghai’, a very Asian inspired piece. In all, ‘happiness + victory’ gets four stars from me-absolutely one of the best EPs I have ever come across.
When asking Donna for a definition of her music, (for to me, it defies classification); ‘lyrical folk’, she said, so that I shall classify her as, but quite frankly, Donna’s current recording ‘happiness + victory’ is a delicious mixture of various musical influences which leaves the listener longing for more.
If you are a fan of Lulu, Dusty Springfield, Stevie Nicks, Loreena McKennitt, or Duffy, I know you will adore this EP by Brighton’s next star-Donna Fullman.
Chuck Kelsey is a singer/songwriter and live acoustic entertainer that is based in upstate New York. He is currently recording his new demo and will be creating his new album in the coming months. You can check out Chuck and his music on myspace.com/chucksoloact6.
Interview with Elena Tapia and Chuck Kelsey.
Ok sir, here are your questions...
1. Can you tell us about yourself for those who don't know you?
About me. I have been in the entertainment industry for 30 years. Have been in numerous bands and doing a solo acoustic act. Also a studio session musician. I have played all over the east coast of the U.S. From Virginia to New Hampshire. A few years back I was nominated by the Northeast Country Music Association for entertainer of the year, and also for song of the year. Mainly now my shows are in NY, and Vermont! I am very fortunate to make a good living playing shows!!! I do a mix of music at my gigs from originals, classic rock, alternative, trop rock, and main stream. I truly love what I do, and think I am very lucky!!!
2. What is your long term career goal?
I think my long term goal is just to keep doing my shows, writing new songs, and trying to give people a good vibe! I would be most happy with that!
3. You are stuck on a deserted island. What are three things you can't not live without?
Fishing pole, guitar, and lots of pens and paper!!!
4. If you could give a new artist advice, what would you tell them?
Be you, and keep it that way! Just do what you do. If it's meant to be it will. Also beware of a lot of people who make promises!!! Last but not least, knock doors down until they say yes, or tell you to go away. Some will, some won't, so what next!
5. Are there any organizations that you help support?
I am a member of the LGA [Lake George Association) and the ASPCA. I raise funds and awareness for both. Not to mention all the benefits, and fundraisers for many organizations and people in need!!!
6. If you could tour with another artist (dead or alive) who would it be and why?
If I could, I think of 3 people-James Taylor, Neil Young, and Philly's own Robert Hazard. All are great story tellers.
7. What is your favorite song of all time?
Too many to count!! 8. Pepsi, Coke or Dr. Pepper?
I don't drink soda! 9. What do you do when you're not playing music?
When I am not playing music, I try and spend quality time with family and hang with friends. Of course, my passion is fishing and as I write this, I am starting the process of becoming an outdoor fishing guide! I love the outdoors and traveling to remote places! Everything else melts away!!!
10. Any last thoughts before we wrap this interview up?
Just be true to yourself and always continue to learn. Our greatest resource is ourselves!!
Breaking the Mold is a creation of when music lovers get curious. Not out to ask the same boring questions, the show is supposed to not only be informative but be entertaining as well to suit the college crowd audience. Based out of Marywood University in Scranton, PA the show's producers just want to have fun yet be professional at the same time. Boasting studio visits from heavyweights such as Motion City Soundtrack (Columbia Records), NeverShoutNever (Warner Bros. Records), Duff from Food Network's "Ace of Cakes" and Cartel (Wind Up Records) along with on-site interviews with Rise Against, UnderOATH, Thrice, The Gaslight Anthem, and a slew of others, the show welcomes artists big and small. The name "Breaking the Mold" is indicative of the mission set out by the staff: no boundaries.
Watch more interviews and videos here: www.youtube.com/user/breakingthemoldtvm
I heard about this band quite a while ago when they still were going by the name The Outro. Their name may have changed since then but their music is as good as ever! I can't say enough about those harmonies! Be sure to give them a listen at their Myspace listed below.
Website: http://www.myspace.com/interiorsmusic
Band Biography:
Interiors are a four-piece indie rock band based out of Los Angeles, CA. Their heartfelt, nostalgic breed of music has drawn comparison to the likes of Band of Horses, Fanfarlo, and Earlimart. With the release of their 2010 EP, these comparisons are clearly warranted; especially on the emotional opening track “Tall Fences”.
Formed in Connecticut during the winter of 2008; Interiors began as a three-piece comprised of brother-sister duo Brian and Madeleine Russick alongside longtime friend, Steven Jimenez. The band’s sound was quickly shaped by the blossoming relationship between Jimenez and Madeleine Russick, whose undeniable chemistry shines through during each vocal harmony.
In 2009, the band relocated to LA in an effort to further their career. They have continued to grow as a unit and even recruited bassist Chris Sapone to round out the lineup. Writing and performing have become a priority for the group as they move towards their ultimate goal; connecting with as many true music fans as possible.
INTERVIEW with Jen Andujar and Interiors Before we get into the interview, could you please give a brief introduction on who you are/where you are from?
Brian Russick, Madeleine Russick, Steve Jimenez, Chris Sapone. Brian, Madeleine, and Steve were all born and grew up in Bridgeport, CT. Chris was born in Orlando, FL. Brian and Steve were in a pop punk band together before Interiors for 5 years. Madeleine has been singing most of her life and Chris has been in bands since he was in high school.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Anything from 90s grunge, to hip hop, to 60s rock.
You guys went through a name change (From The Outro to Interiors). Can you explain why you changed names and how you came up with the new one?
We never liked the original name...we couldn't think of anything better at the time so we just named the band the Outro. We knew we wanted to change the name and one day our bassist walked in to our house and saw the Woody Allen movie "Interiors" on the coffee table. We settled on that...
Describe your dream tour.
A world tour with nice tour buses and catered food every night!
How old were you when you knew you wanted to be a musician?
All 4 of us had a passion for music at a young age. Madeleine was singing at the age of 4.
Explain your song writing process.
Sometimes our songs come from jamming on different random ideas and other times they are very structured from the start. It seems to be always different...
What is your favorite color m&m?
Steve - green Madeleine - blue Brian - Christmas m&ms Chris - all of them
Best/Worst thing about being a musician?
The best is playing to a crowd of people who absolutely love what you do and appreciate all your efforts. The worst part about it is the fact that the music industry is at what most would consider its lowest point...it is extremely difficult to make a living just playing music and not working a 9-5 job.
What is the proudest moment of your career so far?
Recording our newest 3 song EP in Portland, OR. We are very happy with how it came out.
Where do you see yourselves in 5 years?
Continuing to write and play music and hopefully be signed to a respectable label that supports our tours and lifestyle.
Band questions-Who is the...
Biggest flirt? Chris Messiest? Steve Most likely to get lost in a new city? Brian Most shy? Brian Most likely to spend too much money in one place? Chris
What is your favorite fast food restaurant?
Steve - Astro Burger Madeleine - Astro Burger Chris - Anything Mexican! Brian - Taco Bell
You are stuck on a deserted island. What are three things you can’t live without?
Steve - video games, guitar, Marty's Pizza Orange Hat Madeleine - coffee, red wine, Mr. Guz (her cat) Chris - (not available to comment, but we're sure it would be awesome and weird) Brian - bongos, dvd collection, guitar
Any last thoughts before we wrap this interview up?
We hope that anyone reading this interview enjoys our music and comes out to a show in the future.
Based out of CA, Oh No Not Stereo is one of those bands that will keep you running back for more! Don't believe me? Take one listen and you will be hooked! Website = http://ohnonotstereo.com/site/
Interview with Jen Andujar and Oh No Not Stereo:
Questions answered by
MYKUL LEE (Drums) SKYLER NIELSEN (Vocals/Guitar) JUSSI KARVINEN (Guitar)
1. Brief intro: Who you are, where you are from, etc.
MYKUL LEE: We're Oh No Not Stereo from Los Angeles!
SKYLER NIELSEN: Our band started in 2003, as a duo. We've been evolving ever since, from a duo to a trio, and now as a touring quartet.
JUSSI KARVINEN: I'm originally from Finland, and joined ONNS in 2008!
2. In one sentence, describe you're music to someone who may have never heard you before.
MYKUL LEE: High-energy, edgy, hard rock with pop moments.
SKYLER NIELSEN: Fun, refreshing, melodic rock and roll!
JUSSI KARVINEN: Sexy and dangerous, with a splash of sting.
3. Who are your biggest musical influences?
MYKUL LEE: Iron Maiden
JUSSI KARVINEN: Pantera
SKYLER NIELSEN: The Beatles
4. Describe your dream tour:
MYKUL LEE: Interplanetary tour. Sharing a spaceship with The Beatles.
SKYLER NIELSEN: I'd love to tour the world with Green Day and Foo Fighters. Alison Lohman would sell merch, Obama would be our Tour Manager, and Tracy Morgan would drive our bus.
JUSSI KARVINEN: Pantera!
5. Where do you see yourselves in 5 years?
MYKUL LEE: On tour with Paul McCartney in space.
SKYLER NIELSEN: I would think that within the next 5 years, we will release atleast 3 more records, on top of a whole lot of singles etc... and we'll surely have exponential touring miles under our belt!
JUSSI KARVINEN: On Tour! Duh!
6. What's the most played song on your iPod?
MYKUL LEE: A song called "Take Take Take" from a band that we just produced called The Royal Heist.
SKYLER NIELSEN: "The Way I Feel Inside" by The Zombies
JUSSI KARVINEN: "Lying Through Your Teeth" by Head Automatica
7. Explain your song writing process.
MYKUL LEE: I'm not ashamed to admit that i like starting from the inside and working my way out. gives me an idea of what im working towards without having to write my way there to find it. typically i will start with the chorus and work backwards. everything after the first chorus, in a basic skeletal sense, is just a repeat of everything up to the first chorus.. of course with the exception of bridges and solos. I don't like templated songs, but i take what i can from them. i know that a song, from its inception, travels a LONG way before it ends up on your ipod.. so we're constantly reworking our demo songs until we hit the studio.
SKYLER NIELSEN: No two songs that I write are ever written the same way. I don't use formulas or anything, my biggest challenge seems to be capturing content throughout the day... inspiration seems to come when you least expect it. If I can jam out with the guys and have a whole lot of ideas on the table to jam out, it's a lot easier to get a flow going. Even on the other hand, there's something really fresh about writing off the cuff with the band, just putting ideas together out of thin air.
8. What's one random fact that not many people know about you? MYKUL LEE: I'm from Oklahoma and I see dead people.
SKYLER NIELSEN: I am an Eagle Scout, and can't hear out of my right ear. JUSSI KARVINEN: I can play the drums and bass!
9. Best/Worst thing about being a musician?
MYKUL LEE: Best thing: Getting to see the world. Worst thing: Leaving California.
SKYLER NIELSEN: Best thing: Artistic expression is so awesome! Seems like it's the only career in the world where you're always in a stinky bathroom, but it's worth the perks! JUSSI KARVINEN: Seeing different cities every day on tour. Worst thing: Hot-baggin' on the side of the freeway!
10. Proudest moment so far?
MYKUL LEE: Touring the UK with The All-American Rejects was one of the funner things we've ever done.
SKYLER NIELSEN: We're proud to say we've played South By Southwest in Austin for SIX years in a row now, and every time it gets crazier and crazier. The Bayside and Hit The Lights tour in England was a great life experience!
JUSSI KARVINEN: Shepards Bush Empire in London! My parents came to see us from Finland!
11. Craziest fan encounter?
MYKUL LEE: Some girl jumped the barricades at Wembly last week and tried to pee on our singer.. turns out it was Lohan. Man, she sure knows how to party.
SKYLER NIELSEN: Some girl thought I was Russell Brand at LAX and started crying... other than that I'm gonna have to give the trophy to the crazy fan who we had to do an exorcism on in our hotel bathroom floor in Albuquerque.
JUSSI KARVINEN: Signing a girl's chest in Scotland. Wasn't bad, other than the fact that she still had braces she was so young.
12. You are stuck on a deserted island. What are three things you can't live without?
MYKUL LEE: Whiskey, a guitar, Bill 'n Ted's Excellent Adventure on VHS.
SKYLER NIELSEN: Hopefully they have coconuts! I'll take three of those.
JUSSI KARVINEN: Swiss-army knife, Guitar, Myk's bottle of Whiskey.
13. Any last thoughts before we wrap this interview up?
MYKUL LEE: Check out the sweet youtube video of Justin Bieber getting rocked with a water bottle recently.. hilarious! No, seriously. Just type in "Justin Bieber gets hit with bottle in the face"... it'll make your day.
SKYLER NIELSEN: DOWNLOAD OUR LATEST RECORD FOR FREE HERE:
www.ohnonotstereo.com/epk/media password: onns003
LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK!!!
JUSSI KARVINEN: Thanks for doing this interview with us! Come see us play live!
I interviewed James Mathis, a singer/songwriter from Waxhaw, NC currently living in Greensboro. He classifies himself as: Indie/Folk/Alternative, and is working on his first EP.
Cindy- At what age did you begin playing guitar? When did you write your first song?
James- I started playing guitar around 13. But I had been playing piano since I was about 4 or 5 years old. I had started playing violin around age 8, so by the time I started playing guitar I already had a basic feel for chords and melody. I think the very first time I wrote a song, I was seven. I think I based the melody line off of some Disney movie I had just seen. It annoyed the crap out of my little brother.
Cindy- Are you influenced more by current artists, more 'classic' artists, or what inspires your music?
James- I think I am influenced by the old school of songwriters/performers more than anyone. No one can quite get to me like Joan Baez or Dylan. I think that a lot of the newer artists have a lot of good things to emulate as well. But I don’t think anyone holds a candle to the depth and soul that people like Garfunkel, Costello, and Dylan exude.
Cindy- Which artist, dead or alive, would you most want to do a duet with and why?
James- That’s a tough one. I think that it would have to be Tom Petty. I can identify with him a lot (minus the wealth and fame). He grew up in a pretty boring town in the south. He didn’t really fit in with a lot of his peers because he was true to who he was and who he wanted to be. Besides all that…his songs are pretty much amazing.
Cindy- If you could be rich OR be a musician-which would you choose?
James- Is it possible to be both?! Well, I think being a musician would be best for me because music lets me experience life on a deeper, more emotional level. Money would be nice. But you only live once right?
Cindy- Have you ever sang in a chorus or musical production/play? Which one(s)?
James- I have appeared in quite a few musicals. My favorites were probably “Peter Pan” and “Oliver”. “Annie” was also a lot of fun. I think there is a lot to be said for musical theater. Everyone kind of dismisses it as not “rock n’roll” enough…but I think it really helped me develop a stage presence and a voice. I think more people should try it.
Cindy- What is the funniest thing that has ever taken place at one of your gigs?
James- I don’t know of a single funniest moment at a gig. You know…everyone plays those shows where someone yells out “FREE BIRD!!” as a request. There was that one time when someone started singing along in the audience and they were so off key that it threw me off. I think that was more embarrassing than anything else though.
Cindy- What is your favorite song of all time?
James- Right now, my favorite song of all time is probably “First Days of Spring” by Noah and the Whale. It talks about the bitterness and hurt that comes with a failed relationship. But it also has redemption, because from every dead thing, something new and vibrant will emerge. It is part of life.
Cindy- What would you do for a Klondike Bar?
James- I think the question should be: “What would I NOT do for a Klondike bar?” Cindy- What 5 CD/albums do you feel are the most influential ever made?
James- 1. Love and theft 2. Funeral 3. Damn the Torpedoes 4. In Utero 5. We Both Was Young (a personal influencer)
Cindy-If you could be anything other than a musician-what would you be?
James- If I could be anything other than a musician, I think I would be a doctor. I always want to help people have better lives. If I couldn’t do that through my music, I would want to be a doctor and go to third world countries. I traveled to Nicaragua as part of medical team (I am certified Nurse’s Assistant) a year ago and it really changed my view of the world. For more information on James Mathis, please view his MySpace located here:
