A Very Busy And Musical Year Behind Me

“Music can change the world because it can change people.”~ Bono

As I sit here counting pennies for two upcoming shows in 2015 that I wish to attend, I found myself thinking back on the year about what all I have seen, done, and accomplished as far as the music world is concerned. Both as a fan and the first time ever jumping seriously into its industry. I had become the SUPER UBER FAN of many bands this year.

After years of brutal nagging and moaning from family and other colleagues about how I needed to get out of the house and away from the computer and do something with my life, once I was introduced to the band Casket of Cassandra on the 1st of January and I got to see them perform in February, I started to embark on a musical journey that would both get me out of the house and have me doing something that I liked which ultimately led to having my sorrows and worries slip away if only for a few hours at a time.

More than 30 times this year did I see live music. And that did include a number of new bands that I discovered during 2014 SXSW Music Festival.

And I did make ONE surprise trip to Houston in January to be there at a baby shower for Dr. & Mrs. Froth, in which was a very big success to be a surprise. However I am not counting it as there was no show, no band playing, no concert. I sure surprised the hell out of them though.

After Casket of Cassandra came along Beautiful Disturbance and  Wellborn Road in early March. Just days before 2014 SXSW Music Festival began. I would see Beautiful Disturbance again two more times during SXSW, but it would come to pass that Beautiful Disturbance would dissolve and be re-born as “Queen of Kings” and swiftly after that they packed up everything and moved on out to Los Angeles. But because of Beautiful Disturbance and SXSW, I would be introduced to other bands that I ended up liking a whole lot. Such is the cases of Resisting Vegas and very heavy octane and in your freaking face band of Fear Control. Of which I would see Fear Control a grand total of NINE times throughout 2014.

Then Poc Nation would lead to me discovering Nancy Silva Project. I would see Nancy Silva Project three times this year, four if you count the time I went out in the rain and NSP decided not to play but I got to hang out with Nancy Silva for much of the night. You tell me. Does it count as a fourth time???

Poc Nation I would see only once during SXSW. Beautiful Disturbance three times this year before they left for California.

Other bands that I would see only once that caught attention were Black Feratu and Jesus Wears Armani. These bands I saw while waiting for Beautiful Disturbance to hit the stage. These bands would be the band on stage before Beautiful Disturbance. I would also be turned on to a go-go dance troup called Hell Katz as a few of their members were there. I would see Hell Katz dancing in April and then again in October.

So as you can see how this was working. And I have a lot of people/bands to be thankful for, for without them, I wouldn’t know the others.

As the months passed, I started going to the Dirty Dog Bar a lot more frequently. Many of the bands that I got to know at SXSW were playing there in the months after.

Hell Katz led to the fascination of Jitterbug Vipers, particularly their drummer. I would attempt to go see them play again in August, but would be thwarted with buildings that were not wheelchair accessible and without a second option to get me in, resulting in me hanging my head and going back home.

I would also run into Downfall 2012, that I would see twice. March and July. My apartment manager’s current band S.L.U.R.R. I would enjoy twice as well during the same summer.

Also in August was VITERA opening for Metalachi.

Resisting Vegas I would catch one more time before the end of the year. But only after the band drama flared up after Maranda Vegas was no longer a part of the band. And the connections I would have would be torn in two until there was nothing at all.

Nancy Silva Project would lead me to One-Eyed Doll and an overnight stay with the band until almost 8:00 AM the following morning when I finally arrived home.

September would be the last time I would see Casket of Cassandra for the year. Seeing them a total of four times.

After the autumn, things began to slow down. And my wallet was seemingly looking like it was on a diet. But I would catch SIX MINUTE CENTURY in October, for the third time this year.

And then the most memorable moment of my outings in 2014 when at last after more than a decade of communicating via the Internet, I met Red Vamp in the flesh while at a CD release party for the band, Iris. It took place in mid-November.

December I saw Wellborn Road for the second time and one last effort to see Fear Control.

So then it breaks down like this:

Fear Control – 9 times.
Casket of Cassandra- 4 times.
Nancy Silva Project- 3 or 4 times.
Beautiful Disturbance- 3 times.
SIX MINUTE CENTURY- 3 times.
Hell Katz- 3 times.
Downfall 2012- 2 times.
S.L.U.R.R.- 2 times.
Resisting Vegas- 2 times.
Vicious Cycle- 2 times.
Masqued-1 time.
Echo Temple- 1 time.
Jesus Wears Armani- 1 time.
Black Feratu- 1 time.
Poc Nation- 1 time.
Iris- 1 time.
Jitterbug Vipers- 1 time.

Those are the names of bands that I cared about enough to see play live in 2014 as much as possible.

I also participated in the Gathered In Darkness project with Dr. Froth and Robert Lowe. The first time ever I was in a recording studio and I know that some of my parts will be on the record for sure as my lines were of importance to the story. That is IF I am not replaced by someone else. But I don’t think that will happen.

I’ve also ventured into a new territory for the first time in my life… joining a band.

Since Independence Day of this year, I’ve been in and out of so many different cover bands and only two original bands this year. I found out the hard way that its easy to get replaced and fired from these kinds of projects. But currently I am slipping quietly out of one, and still in the other. We’ll see what happens. I’ll keep you informed. And for those surprised by this wondering what I do. I sing. I’m a bass/baritone voice range. It works.

So for those of you who were complaining about how I never get off of the Internet…. you have no idea!! If need be, go back and read everything over again. I invite you to click on everything that is linked. Most of them to my previous blog posts and a few band websites. But if you don’t, that is okay too.

Its been a busy year as we approach Christmas Eve & Day. I am sure that if you look back in December posts of this blog that you will find amusing and informative posts about Christmases past in my life. You’re more than welcome to hunt them down and read them.

If something spectacular arrives during this Christmas holiday period, I’ll be back to inform you.

But for now, that was quite a bit of reflection. I don’t regret a thing from my experiences written in this blog post.

SXSW Festival 2014: Final Words

Happy International Happiness Day, one and all!!

Well, I’ve started my brand new wardrobe, thanks to the bright idea of going to SXSW Festival this year.

I’m shocked and surprised that even spending well under $100 that I have what I have.

Not to mention the good times and the really freakin’ weird times and there’s no regrets. Only that it ended.

My original plan and intent was to watch five bands. But when you get there too early or when bands are running late, you get that opportunity of hearing other bands that you may find yourself liking.

Such was the case with Jesus Wears Armani, Fear Control, and NANCY SILVA PROJECT.

I’m still on the fence about Eliquate as I don’t normally follow that style and genre of music. And there was nothing that they had in the way of merchandise that I could listen to later at home. All I know is that they are super serious about it all. I saw them at Shiner’s Saloon right before BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE and then I saw them performing at the southwest corner in the street of 6th & Neches. The singer saw me listening and nodding my head to the beat and he just up and popped me a high five. I guess I’ll have to find their music online. They are from Santa Cruz, California.

But I’ve seen musical groups from locally here in town to Seattle, Washington to Lafayette, Louisiana to NYC to Venezuela, Mexico, Austria. And met people from Germany, France, Russia, and Australia.

The local bands however are finding out the long and hard way that its beneficial that I am a fan of their music. I become the loudest mouth piece on the planet and scream their glory. And that’s what bands are really wanting. They want those kinds of fans that will talk to other people and spread their message… whatever that message may be.

And I think that’s also how I come to find myself swimming in mostly free swag and merchandise. I took several photographs of what I have but not all of it because it was starting to become a burden to set up everything that I had for photographs.

Just know that this is probably about 1/5 of all that I have. As far as music and miscellaneous …. that’s what I have, but the t-shirts? Not even close. Some are in the dirty laundry. One I am wearing right now. And others are hanging in the closet that I couldn’t find the first sweep through.

I will always get behind the idea that during a show that you get there early. Even if the band that you want to see is playing later. Because you never know if you are going to like something. And it seems like it is always happening to me that I hear something new and I love it. Then I get into it, and then start screaming and waving their banner.

Enjoy your day, everybody!!

https://www.facebook.com/BeautifulDisturbanceMusic

https://www.facebook.com/pocnation

https://www.facebook.com/FearControl

https://www.facebook.com/ResistingVegasOfficial

https://www.facebook.com/JesusWearsArmani

https://www.facebook.com/casketofcassandra

https://www.facebook.com/nancysilvansp

https://www.facebook.com/eliquate

12 March 2014: Beautiful Disturbance At Heart of Texas Rock Fest: Austin, TX- SXSW 2014

“It’s a good day to be alive!”~ Brenda Flores 

Another day, another venue, another show. Another way of viewing a set. 

Outdoors and on a pretty nice sized stage. 

It was pretty cool I thought. 

But I would take one hell of a beating for it. And that’s not to say that BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE did me in, but my travels to get back and forth did that to me. 

I think however that I am starting to get the hang of things and how they work around downtown that goes with what I can do, what I cannot do, and what I should and should not do.

For example. I should not go along 8th Street to find the northbound bus back home. That was a miserable, painful journey that had me going up AND DOWN hills that I could not keep total control in my wheelchair. 

Now I didn’t tip out or fall out of it or anything but holy smokes I almost wished I had. Then someone would have seen me on the ground and called for the paramedics. At least I would have had an urgent ride somewhere and it wasn’t on that stupid hill. 

The Heart of Texas Rock Fest however will go for the rest of the week. Its just that BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE had a hand in it this afternoon. 

Come hell or high water, I was going to do it. I was going to go. I didn’t care what the masses were saying. They are all dumb-dumb poo-poo heads. 

Yeah, that’s right. I said it. 

However let’s not take away from the musical mind-blowing that is the reason and purpose of my journey today into the elements. 

I’ve never seen them play outside before. I’m sure they’ve been to an outside venue before. I just haven’t seen them. I think that for SXSW 2013 they were on a rooftop somewhere. That had to be outside.

Seeing them all together again as they walked around like family was a really cool thing. Sometimes they would break up into twos but they were always together with one another.

I am not 100% sure if their set was the same set that the played a few days ago at the Dirty Dog Bar, but it sounded familiar. And I loved it. Even when they got to my favorite song! I didn’t give a crap who was watching and what they were saying because I was enjoying myself and that’s what this is all about. Enjoying music. Enjoying life THROUGH music. 

Its almost a religion because I follow so much music of different kinds. 

Brenda Flores caught me lip synching again. Oops. She drew out her hand and pointed in my direction and so I pointed back. When she finally broke her gaze, then I retracted my arm back. 

Its something that I do like about BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from or what your background is, once they get to know you, they treat you like one of their own. The entire band knows that I love the song “Nearly Forgotten” so whenever its played. Sometimes, the eyes are on me! But they are coming from the stage. 

Auggie was tearing and ripping shit up as usual. I still contend that he’s a beast. He’s got this rocking new guitar that is out of this world. 

Auggie, please remember I said the above sentence when reach 114 years old. Thanks!!!!!! 

And even in the blustery wind, this band got up there on that stage and out of their comfort zone and still brought down the stage in a swirl of musical fire. 

I am glad to hear some new material being played live now as well as a few songs that are not AS new but still unreleased as far as recordings are concerned. 

All in all a great time and a great mix. And I am probably promised just the same in the next couple of days as I was today and the time before that. 

They are about to go on stage again as I write, but I had overdone things today. Especially with going to battle against 8th Street in downtown. Injuries to hands are a pain when you use a wheelchair. I know that I should get gloves. You don’t have to tell me that!! I’m working on a ride to get them. 

Gloves however would not have helped in this case as the street was so friggin’ steep for a wheelchair that it was ridiculous. And thus we have a very exhausted, sore, and hurt Dambreaker… but a happy and content Dambreaker. 

Thanks to BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE. I’ll see you VERY soon. 

3 March 2014: Gettin’ Dirty With Beautiful Disturbance

Back to the Dirty Dog, we go people!!

Hard to believe that it had been one exact month since I went there to see CASKET OF CASSANDRA. But it honestly is.

And within another week, SXSW Festival will begin their live music portion and I’ll be back for that one too.

But for the 3rd of March was to see BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE.

I’ve lost count how many times I’ve seen them play live. All I know is that I love it and I keep going back for more. Whether its locally or out of town (when applicable.) It is what I dream about and what I live for. Almost like a religion.

But before people start twisting their panties in a bunch, I will move on with the rest of the night and provide as best I can a look inside of what it was like to get to the Dirty Dog and sum up what its like to see BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE live.

I must first mention the fact that there are music fans and there are die hard people who will go through anything to be able to hear the kind of music that they wanna hear.

Last night’s weather was deplorable with the threat of freezing weather which has caused the shut down of … everything in town this morning. A lot of people thought I was insane for wanting to go out into the elements when it was 38°F/3°C and the sun going down, which would drop it to 34°F/1°C by the time I left to return home. The difference was that there was a thunderstorm going on, complete with lightning and due to the cold air … it was rain but more so sleet.

And yes, I went out in it. A neighbor asked me why I was planning on doing it. I told them “I love my family.”

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE refers to their fans and people who enjoy and support their music as their FAMILY. And I feel like now I am apart of that.

But what was even better last night was that when I saw the band setting up and what not, they actually for the first time (in my face) referred to me as “friend” rather than “fan.”

I remember this happening before in Houston by other bands. Its always a proud moment for me.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE mentioned that they had a whole new set list to try out. And it was going to include my favorite song, “Nearly Forgotten” which thrilled me to the bone. They started the night out and I did what I had to do in order to enjoy myself, not caring what the scores of people behind me were thinking.

This is rock and roll, and yes I like it. Anyone who don’t understand can leave the room. 

Belle, their bass player, continues to hold up to her reputation as being one of the top bass players in the country. This comment and opinion coming by OTHER bass players.  And Auggie Del Ray’s passion is always seen whenever he steps foot on stage. Its like a switch gets turned on inside of his head and he turns into a rock and roll giant beast. Completely unstoppable.

The first song that they played was a new tune called “Runaway.” I thought that my face was going to melt off of my skull and my skin just break up into pieces. Where did this come from???

And their last song “My Heroine” really dug down deep to where I wanna hear it again and again.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE at the Dirty Dog Bar

I couldn’t help but get goosebumps throughout the entire song!!!I would later find out that the song was written only one week ago. And that just blew my mind! These people are musical entities with a passion never before known and in my opinion, nobody can hold a flame to. I figured if I loved the first song so much that I was really in for a high voltage, pure octane show.

I was right. I just didn’t realize how much.

Just when a person thinks that there are no more surprises left to be had… a whole new level of “WOW! DID YOU SEE THAT?!?!?!?!?” comes up.

I am probably going to die a painful death for this one, but ….

When they got to my favorite song, lead singer Brenda Flores knew exactly where I was and from the stage landed me a high five. She also gave me a high five as they walked from the front of the venue to get on stage. So, high ten??

I always figured Brenda as a high-five-turned-into-a-fist-embrace kind of woman. But I guess I was wrong.

The one thing that I truly enjoy about their music is I am not afraid of jumping in front of the crowds and getting as close to the stage as possible. This allows me to hear Brenda’s voice both through the microphone and at the same time as it comes from her mouth.

It is one of those things you just have to experience. But I have always loved Brenda’s voice. I’m crazy over Auggie Del Ray’s stage performances. And Belle… what is not to love about her?

I’ll probably get into trouble for saying this but these two women I adore greatly without end. Both as professional musicians and as people. I’m so grateful to have them in my life and so grateful that I can use the term “amiga” to describe them.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE has a new drummer. I was glad to see that he came to me and talked and socialized with me with a genuine interest. It wasn’t that stereotypical musician comes to you, says hello, talks about the weather and your health, gives you a handshake, and then leaves. Nope. This guy is cool. I gotta learn what his name is soon.

The thing that I just get annoyed about is that both times I’ve visited the Dirty Dog, bands are only given about 30 minutes for their time on stage.

Maybe I am spoiled from other experiences in other places. But thirty minutes of BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE just is not going to be enough. Not for me at least.

But as good things come to an end always, there was more show to be had.

There was another band from Waco that came on next. And then I couldn’t hear very well at that point, but a lot of people thought that they heard that the third band said something about Israel? 

And then the next band was called Resisting Vegas. I was on the other side of the venue hanging out when I heard more female vocals.

I HAD to go check it out. Because if I didn’t, then I wouldn’t be me.

I love the fact that the lead singer engaged with eye contact during their set. I’ve always found it pleasing if the lead singer looked at me.

With the exception of my first ever show in Houston where the lead singer of DECIMATION THEORY gazed at me and pierced into my soul with his screaming vocals that terrified me so much I crapped in my pants.

But Resisting Vegas, there was no threat of soul consumption. Maybe a little fluttering but no consumption. I’m a new fan of theirs.

Is anyone else starting to see a pattern here???

So as the night continued to creep upon us, so did the inclement weather and BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE was going to have to drive back home to Waco in this nasty weather. By then it had dropped to just above freezing at 34°F and the awe and wonder of lightning and thunder filled the nighttime sky.

I got my hugs from the band, took a photograph with the entire band… of which my camera just refuses to work when I want it to. Its humiliating. And apparently it loves being dropped on the cement floor of the Dirty Dog as it has happened twice now in both visits. Stinking technology.

After all of that, I took off for home in a taxi. I fell down because I was expected to freaking walk to the cab because the driver parked too far away from the curb. I was expected to rise out of my wheelchair and walk inside of the cab.

Umm really?? Idiots….. OF COURSE I AM GOING TO FALL DOWN!!

Brenda Flores and Auggie Del Ray of BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE

I’m hurting. But I’m going to live. Lucky for them.

Back safe and home before 11 PM was a good thing though. Now we’re gonna to find out how stupid the city has become because of all of the ice. I can just see it now. All of the accidents on the roads and highways.

But I am most thankful for BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE and their continuing mission for excellence in music and giving it all that they have with each live performance. I love that about them.

It was like a warm up to the SXSW Festival which is less than two weeks away. More so like a week and a half.

And BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE is guaranteed to be there.

As long as I can handle the point A to B, I shall be too.

And I encourage everyone to listen to their music and give them a shot.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE both on stage and off is nothing like you’ve ever known before.

 

 

The Last Goodbye (Sneak Peak Review)

I am one ball of emotional mess right now.

The band BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE kind of leaked their own music video that is soon to be released on Facebook this morning and I think that I caught the end of it before they hid it again on YouTube.

The song will be released on the 23rd of January. I am guessing it will be available for downloading and all of that. And probably the video will be back live again at that time as well.

I was not sure what to expect. I know that I love these guys and they treat me like family. Even more than Olive Garden could ever dream of doing. Besides, BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE doesn’t charge me for food. But I shall digress from explaining the differences.

I know that personally, I go on and on and on about my favorite song from them called “Nearly Forgotten” but has this one reached the top as well and could it actually dethrone what I have been considering to be their best song that they ever wrote??

Being that it was only a sneak peak, I won’t give too much of it away. But everything about it just latched on to me in some personal and emotional way. Before the first verse was even being sung, I had to push away from the desk. Both of my hands on my face and covering my mouth.

Brenda Flores

And then lyrically it struck!!! I felt myself leaning forward until I fell down on my hands and knees on the floor. Still watching the video on the monitor, I wept so hard in my own hands. The goosebumps, tears, and tingles were relentless.

The song is full of heartache for sure. The musical talents of Auggie Del Rey and the vocal power of  Brenda Flores made for such an emotional ride through personal turmoil as I felt I was right along with them in this power struggle for love and the fight to keep the balance of everything around us to keep it alive and not let it die.

There’s going to be a lot of people who are going to be in such a similar situation that equals with the lyrics of this song, that its going to speak to them as well.

I think that I was very fortunate to see the sneak peak. And it drives me to the edge of insanity to know what the rest of the album is going to sound like.

This band has made such an impact both musically and personally for me. And I love them all. Its just so awesome that they are coming out with kick ass stuff!!

And to think, all of this so close to my own birthday. I understand that Auggie Del Rey’s birthday is one day before mine. So we can share in that. That’s cool. Early birthday gifts??? Why not!!!

But it really was an awesome tune. Once they open it back up to the public again… I’m going to be all over it.

 

My First SXSW Experience

“In West Virginia yesterday, a man was arrested for stealing several blow-up dolls. Reportedly, police didn’t have any trouble catching the man because he was completely out of breath.” ~ Conan O’Brien

There’s always time for a first in life. With those first experiences becomes the possibility for things pleasant as well as scary.

It wasn’t as nail biting as I thought it would be. After a decade of hearing about this event year after year after year, knowing that hundreds of thousands of people would attend, and I was going into unfamiliar territory as I have never been before.

If you have read the previous blog post, you know that I was bound and determined to make it to Sixth Street in Austin, Texas to see BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE perform once more.

My excitement was getting the best of me. I kept checking over and over and over again the bus schedules for the area throughout the entire afternoon to make sure that I knew where I had to be so that I didn’t miss out.

I actually got off the bus at a certain point and then found myself going down one helluva steep hill until I had reached Sixth Street. Then I turned to the right… should’ve turned left. I was nervous about the crowds. Not really knowing what to expect. After all there are reasons why the city’s motto is KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD.

But all in all, I was safe when I reached the venue, The 311 Club. A venue that claims to be Austin’s premiere  R&B night club. A little strange since BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE isn’t that musical genre, but its SXSW and anything that can happen- will happen.

As a matter of fact I was so early that I was able to catch the band before play. Although it was a very unusual sound check to say in the very least. I’ve never in my life heard anyone just use the F-bomb to check a microphone’s levels. And that’s all I heard.

I wasn’t paying that much attention. I was stuck between the desire to hang out and chill with BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE before they got on stage and just letting them be so that they could prepare.

As the current band had played their set, I was getting more and more involved with it. At least audibly. I wasn’t paying much attention to the stage.

And then I saw this!!

Wait. What? Who? Huh?? HELLO NURSE!!!!!!!!!!

Who is this girl? Why didn’t I see her earlier before they got on stage? Inquiring minds wanna know!!

I kept hearing her say something that I thought was “punk nation” which would have been suitable for the dress and slight demeanor of the entire band on stage. Turns out I was wrong. Its Poc Nation. The name of the band.

I got closer and closer and closer to the stage. Like a predator on the Sahara. But I only went so far as people there were recording video with their smart phones.

If I would’ve had my way, I would’ve been right up on that stage at her feet. 

I waited once the band was finished. They announced that the last song was called “Go To Hell” and I just stared at Brenda Flores and started cracking up.

After I recovered from the laughter, I began looking at their merch table, I didn’t know if I was going to be able to pull it off to buy something from Poc Nation as well as BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE. I went into a hormone-induced panic.

Not only that, but BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE wasted no time with getting on stage and drumming up the diesel for their performance.

I got a photograph taken with the girl as she hung around my neck and the only thing that I could think of was if that I could get a woman to do that all of the time, I would never leave the house.

I went into financially defensive mode when I noticed a CD and a t-shirt being sold. After that, I noticed a note taped onto the table saying that they accept major credit cards. But the person that I was dealing with said that they had no idea where that came from and they were not accepting credit cards.

Meanwhile, I’m missing the show that I came to see at SXSW.

I suppose that one could argue that since it was my first ever SXSW show and the first time I had ever wandered into that area for the festival that BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE stole my SXSW virginity.

I digress.

So I went off to bombard the front of the stage but again, people were recording with phones so I only got so far with it. But I was still ahead of much of everyone else.

There are certain bands that just give me goosebumps when I listen to them. This would be another band to be added to the list of those who do that.

The last song of their set I remembered from Acadia Bar & Grill in Houston, Texas where I was motioned over to approach even closer to the stage by the bass player, Maribel Sabido. The 311 Club stage was much higher and I didn’t suspect that anyone would be daring to jump off of it.

I was wrong!

Brenda Flores and Auggie Del Ray were doing their stage “battle” for lack of a better term and then Auggie was facing away from the audience but his heels were on the edge of the stage.

I wondered what was going to happen.

Then suddenly Auggie just jumped and in the middle of the jump got turned around, landed flat on his feet, and rocked out the rest of the song on his bad ass guitar.

I noticed that he was mere inches away from me. Not even that! More like centimeters. And I didn’t know what to do. Did I pat him on the back or the head? Did I throw up The Horns in his face or my fist shaking in the  air? The beads of sweat coming off of his biceps were flying everywhere along my own arm.

Sharing is sometimes caring, right?

He then crab walked a few steps and kept rocking it out!!

Then it was all said and done.

I did eventually hang with BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE afterwards. I finally got a t-shirt from them in my size, purchased some big posters and had them signed and then had to find a way to get to the nearest city bus stop which was about one-quarter of a mile away.

But it lands inside the gay district of Austin. Talk about your butt being glued to the seat at all times. I don’t roll with the pole.

I do feel more comfortable and confident though if I decide that I want to go back. I know that BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE will be playing along Sixth Street every night until the end of the week. I’m considering it, running low on funds though. City buses used to be FREE for me, but not any more. And that’s a shame. Wednesday’s show is too late in the evening for me to get back home, so maybe the rest of the week? Who knows!

I came home and immediately went on to Google to find Poc Nation. Not a lot there. Just web articles that were in Spanish. I found their Facebook fan page though. So obviously I joined.

The band (or at least the girl) is from Mexico!!

After dealing with inflamed hormones, that was a bit heartbreaking to find out. I had hoped that Poc Nation was some band from the state of Texas. But its Mexico. They’ve been all over the world as well.

I think its safe to say that if I ever find out that Poc Nation is in my area, that I’m going to break bones to get to that show!

Once I get into a musical act or band, such as BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE, SIX MINUTE CENTURY, or something like that… then I am 100% involved with it for life!

At least I didn’t have any problems with people though. Hundreds of thousands of people coming to Austin, Texas and 22,000 music acts to play throughout the city during SXSW. Hell, I even saw Tard, aka Grumpy Cat this past Thursday. A bunch of moron photographs meowing like idiots just trying to get the cat to meow. So sad!

If there would’ve been a problem, I think it would be safe to assume that I wouldn’t go back to SXSW. Unless one of the Houston bands were there… then I might consider it. But I don’t have to cross that kind of bridge. All in all though, it was a lot of fun. I was promised the diesel and that’s what I got.

 

12 March 2013: Beautiful Disturbance At The 311 Club: SXSW

 

“Yea we will be full on diesel.”~ Auggie Del Ray

In the midst of the SXSW Music & Film Festival, I just couldn’t help myself knowing that Beautiful Disturbance was on my home turf again.

After seeing them just four days prior, I made that clear decision to do it again.

So I left early. Too early to be in fact. But that would end in my favor and that story will be for a future blog post that you won’t want to miss.

But this is Beautiful Disturbance.

Its nice to know that they’ve seen me enough times where I’m not feeling so much as just another music fan of theirs, but rather a part of The Pride, The Family as they put it.

Brenda’s vocals tonight was impeccable. Auggie was ripping that guitar into pieces that eventually I am almost expecting him to bash one on stage at some point in his musical career. Maribel Sabido dazzled with her flawless bass and Nate Harmon kept the fuel pumping on drums.

I was promised diesel, and that’s EXACTLY what I got! And the only thing that stuck in my head when I left the venue and walked into the insane mass of people there for SXSW was HOLY CRAP!!!! But the true HOLY CRAP came when I spotted a naked woman just wandering in the streets.

I am telling you that you are missing out if you haven’t heard one song of theirs. I promise, you will be pleasantly surprised to what this band can and does bring to the table. They play with fire, that diesel, in their veins and let it all out when they are on stage.

Beautiful Disturbance will be at the SXSW Festival at various venues every night until this coming Saturday. After that, they are back on the road.

I’m seriously considering getting my butt into each and every show that I possibly can, now that I know the bus route and how things ebb & flow with transportation.

Be a part of The Pride. Join The Family.

I did. I’ll be there…. for life.

9 March 2012: The Pain’s Not Forgotten With Well Of Souls

“Skim MILF.” ~ Unknown

In seven days there was: 12 hours on the road, five bands, 2 venues, 2 hotels, and countless memories, hugs, and ultimately experiences to last a lifetime.

Two bands, one venue and hotel was already discussed in a previous blog post. But within a week’s time there was another.

It is fruitless to add that I was at the same Motel 6 where I had fallen into the pool last November. This time I was only there long enough to get a few hours of sleep. And being that there was evil thing called Daylight Savings Time, I would be up for  a full 24 hour period. Yippeeee!!

This show was compelling. It called out to me. Not to mention the encouragement of a few people in my ear. I HAD to go, if I found that I was able to. And obviously I was.

I did however get plenty of face time inside the House Of Froth, learning a new video game called Skyrim for much of the afternoon until it was time to go to the venue.

This show had appealed to me on two separate but equal fronts. WELL OF SOULS and BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE.

It had been nearly a full year since I had seen either band play live. And with that, I packed my luggage for an overnight stay and got up nice and early and left town.

I hadn’t heard of the other two bands before. I just had received a pep talk about what I could possibly expect from these groups. But both of them surprised me. 

Come to find out that there would never be enough counseling in the world to explain what I saw.

THE SCOURGE started things off with a bang from the moment they played their first note. After a very hard hitting musical interlude they played “Fuck With Fire” which was to be their first song.

Honestly, starting a show like that? Hang on to your leather pants, people!!!

These guys went out on stage like they had nothing to lose, everything to gain. And they ended up grabbing my attention to make me a new fan! For the love of anything good and pure… find me the merchandise table for these guys and buy in bulk!

They were put together nicely and I would not mind seeing them again. It turns out that they will be playing at BFE in April for the next show with SIX MINUTE CENTURY. The term “excited” doesn’t do it or them justice. My only hope is that I can make it there at that time. Even though it is part of the plan at this point.

After blasting some really awesome music and ripping apart people’s faces with excellent performances of a few cover songs, I could have just withered onto the floor. My only regret was being so far back that I never took any photographs of them while on stage. OR at all.

But I had to pace myself. BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE was next!

I hadn’t seen this band out of Waco, Texas since going to The Domain last year. And there was about to be some very obvious differences in performance as The Domain was more of an acoustic set compared to Acadia’s plugged in and full throttle event.

Not to mention that I didn’t have a camera then, but I did now!

I wasn’t sure if I should have called it “BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE: Plugged In” or something of that nature.

But there’s something more to it than that.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE has an energy about them when they are on stage. I saw that their music was pulsing through their veins and fire in their soul. Because of it, I moved up to the front of the stage.

Each of the band members greeted me with awesome hugs and smiles when they walked in the door. Even lead singer, Brenda Flores, complimented me on the leather jacket that I was wearing. I thought that was really cool. Find one thing about the person that you like and then start a conversation from there.

I could have never expected the electric atmosphere that BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE brings with them on stage!!

There was nothing to compare it to. And there still isn’t. BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE is a band that is on top of their A game and they remain standing on the top of that hill. They were lost in their passion for music and it showed. The performance overall was top notch in my opinion.

Brenda Flores did mention me by name after playing “Nearly Forgotten” and I was surprised by it. A dedication came out to me and appreciation was expressed that I had come that long way to get to the show. Although I’m still a bit hazy and confused as to which song was dedicated. Was it “Nearly Forgotten” or the song that they played after it? It remains a mystery. Meanwhile, Mrs. Froth screamed to her hearts content when I was mentioned. I felt all bubbles and goo inside as the goosebumps shot up my spine. I am so loved and that’s no doubt!

By the time BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE reached their final song of the night, I noticed that their bass player, Maribel was motioning for me to get even closer to the stage. The last part of the song, both her and Auggie Del Ray came off of the stage and rocked it to the end. Maribel being right in front of me only a few short inches away. I didn’t know if Auggie was going to encapsulate me to the other side or not but he just let it all out to what he had and they finished their set on stage.

Holy Crap!!! More that I did not expect or see coming. Was she gonna climb up on my lap and hammer out the rest of the song while standing on my knees? And would she find it funny if I started throwing dollar bills on the floor? No, I remained still until the end then she hugged me.

BEAUTIFUL DISTURBANCE took the time after their set to talk to the people who were the most animated during their performance. Photographs were taken as a sign of the band’s heartfelt appreciation.

And as they were finishing up loading their gear, the entire band came back inside and ALL of them were total smiles as they came in my direction. They took pictures with me. And I even handed out my own camera to have pictures done. I suspect that most of the fan photographs will be either posted on Facebook or their own website, or both.

As I looked over their merchandise table, the only thing that really didn’t have was a keychain. Ultimately that was simply given to me by the band, and now I am the one full of appreciation. I wanted one of their new t-shirts but they didn’t have my size. I hope to try again and get one in the future.

They all hugged me before leaving. I’m still working on NOT fearing Auggie Del Ray and his muscles galore as he can break me in half. But I still appreciate and love their music. Proud to be a part of The Pride.

After that it got DARK. It got GLOOMY. It was the headliner WELL OF SOULS of doom metal fame.

The time they spent on stage just gripped on to me like a horny vampire and wouldn’t let go until it consumed every ounce of my soul. John Calvin’s stage performance and appearance still creeps me the hell out. But he’s awesome in what he does!

But where does that accent come from when he is singing? Anyone know??

Combined with O.J. Morris and Tim Wayne on guitar and of course Dr. Froth on bass, and Chris Kotlarz as their hired hand on drums, this band also had their shit together and made for a powerful and memorable performance.

To be honest, I wasn’t a doom metal fan at all before I heard them. And I’m slowly starting to warm up to them. But it is clear that WELL OF SOULS welcomes me into their fold with open arms. Both by the band and by their circle of family and friends.

Then there was We, The Enemy.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, over???

Just a few songs played and then they were done. What happened? What was going on?

The urban legend was later told by Dr. Froth that he had stepped outside and that band was pissed off because one of the guitarist kept screwing up and couldn’t efficiently play because he was extremely drunk.

But nobody noticed. Nobody knew what was going on. They could have played the rest of their set with their guitarist screwing up left and right and never had been exposed to it. So many people were confused. A lot speculated that the band was upset because after WELL OF SOULS had played, Acadia cleared out. But they did have a fan or two left. One that was actually in military uniform. But no. It was over. They packed up their gear and split.

Maybe we’ll see them again soon somewhere down the road. But for now it appears that they are sorely butthurt about their guitarist.

After that was the usual out to eat experience. Which was crazy insane in and of itself.

Then crashing at the Motel 6 at 4 AM. Did I mention the stupid time change? There was no time to fall into the pool. There was no time to mess with their stupid television or be annoyed by the fact that they are STILL remodeling.

I was glad that I had Dr. & Mrs. Froth hang out with me during those last few minutes that I was there before getting on the bus and headed home. Its a lot easier to wait when there is someone to talk to. Someone you click with. And it also makes it difficult. But I’m getting better at it.

No crazy women cussing me out, no strangers handing out money as it was last week.

It will be a few weeks before the show by SIX MINUTE CENTURY featuring the birthday of Chuck Williams. Now I am on my knees, praying that it happens. But I have no regrets showing up for this show.

Going Back From Where I Came

“We all want progress, but if you’re on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive.”~C. S. Lewis

I feel like a country song. More specifically a Willie Nelson song.

With the memories of ECHO TEMPLE and The House Of Blues still on my mind, I am returning to the Houston area for another show.

This weekend’s entertainment will be provided for by:

Beautiful Disturbance and WELL OF SOULS. And a couple more bands I’m not 100% familiar with.

Yep, I’m on the road again.

No such sweet deals from the performing bands however with really good financial planning and savings, this trip will be about $30-40 less than what I am used to spending.

I’m totally amped up from the fact that I will get to see Beautiful Disturbance play again. The first time I saw them “unplugged” so to speak. But now they will be large and in charge!

And of course, WELL OF SOULS… with Dr. Froth being their bass guitar player, I know that I will be kept in really awesome company. More face time with Dr. & Mrs. Froth.

I need some kind of rewards program or something. All this traveling. I’m just really glad that its going to be a lot less expensive than previous endeavors. And the fact that its those two bands specifically really gets me going. But I will have to wait until this weekend for it to happen.

Ugh!!!

ARE WE THERE YET?

30 June 2012: Beautiful Disturbance at The Domain

“I look within and choose to find, A blaze that won’t die”~ Beautiful Disturbance “Nearly Forgotten” 

Each person can measure the distances of just how far they are willing to go to get whatever it is that they want. Some will find that their limitations are quite small, and therefore don’t go very far.

Today for me, a test of will. How far was I willing to go in order to see a band that I just heard about fairly recently? The answer: ALL THE WAY.

I got myself up and running even if it was a Saturday morning. I knew that I was going to have to do battle with the local buses in order to make this show. And I was excited from the moment that I had today’s first yawn. Listening to what has become a personal passion for their song, “Nearly Forgotten”… my poor neighbors again, having to endure it on repeat.

My journey would have some difficulties though as the bus didn’t quite drive up to the front door of the venue, which was The Microsoft Store in The Domain. The Domain is this large area of restaurants and shopping on the other side of the interstate highway from where I live.

Several miles, but only an hour bus ride through public transit. Except for the last haul of the journey.

The last three-quarters of a mile, I would trudge through uneven ground, tall grass, and steep inclines. I guess the city ran out of money to pave some stinking sidewalks down there.

I thought I was going to be late. The website said 1:00 PM. I went through the doors of the store at 12:58 PM. Hmm, lucky me.

Employees greeted me and of course was trying to be of assistance. But I was not there for their service. I was there to hear music. Most of the employees who heard the reason of why I was there stared at me with a blank look of confusion growing upon their faces. One even told me “They are not here so they must not be coming.”

I felt defeated. I didn’t see any notifications of any cancellations. Especially after seeing on Facebook that they were “on their way.”  I also felt so tired from treating the wheelchair like an ATV. Which it is not.

I had a choice: Stay and see what happens or trudge back home.

And then I had a fabulous “Eureka!!” moment. I’m inside the Microsoft Store. There are computers all over the place!

Hello? McFly??!??

I logged into one to find out if there was any last minute cancellations. I then found the phone number for the band and I called to find out whether or not they were coming. They answered, they were minutes away.

I stayed put!!

I saw the band come in. But I didn’t say anything to them. I wanted to see if they were going to recognize me. I nodded and smiled as they were in and out of the store to set up for their gig. I kept silent, just looking to see how long it would take before they realized who I was.

An employee of the store would ruin all of the fun.

She cried out “You gotta fan waiting for you guys!”. She turned to see where I was and then pointed me out. When I introduced myself, it all clicked for the band. They were overjoyed that I had made it.

A few minutes of setting up everything, it was time to start.

The show began.

The set was to be acoustic. So I wasn’t able to just let it all out and start rocking….. or was I??

They started with my obsession, “Nearly Forgotten”. I had never heard this acoustically before. And it still was great. Although during the second verse I was busted by their lead singer, Brenda, for singing along. She and I caught eyes and she smiled and pointed at me as she realized I had already joined in with them and was singing.

It’s only rock ‘n’ roll, but I like it! It was only the first song and I was getting INTO IT like Paul and Barnaby getting all into Grandma Smith’s apple pie.

Their bass player, Belle, was very impressive as well. I’m not sure how it got started but she had been draped with the reputation of being one of the best bass players in the entire state. And after seeing just the acoustic set, I can see why they say that.

And then on the other side was their lead guitarist, Auggie. A man that has love, music, and life rushing through his veins. He is so intense with making music and it shows. He is a monster! Even with the fact that it was an acoustic set, I was absolutely certain during the third song of the set that he was going to break the bench that he was sitting upon and just turn wild and loose!! He’s a passionate musician. And I think that is something refreshing to see from the fan’s perspective instead of having this attitude of “I’m the musician, you’re the fan. My job is to play. Your job is to love me.”

But all of the band members were friendly and kind. After the show, photographs were taken. I got their EP autographed as well.

As they were beginning to take down their set, I found myself not wanting to leave. I just wanted to hang out with them. But I got out of their way to let them do what they needed to do. They have another show in their hometown of Waco this evening. Best wishes to them tonight!!!

It was worth going the distance today. And it fuels my excitement to see them play again in August at BFE Rock Club in Houston, Texas along side SIX MINUTE CENTURY. That should be a really great show, in my opinion.

http://www.beautifuldisturbancemusic.com