Indie Ville TV #76 Spotlight on Indieville’s own Lizzie Miller

Written by K.L. Graham

If you’ve ever tuned in to IndievilleTV you’ll immediately recognize Lizzie Miller, 

one of our fabulous hosts. With her blonde hair and bubbly personality and wit, 

she’s easy to spot. What you may not know about our Lizzie is that she is very 

comfortable on both sides of the microphone.

Along with her illustrious hosting career, Lizzie sings country/pop.  

As a host Lizzie says; “I enjoy interviewing and getting to know a broad spectrum 

of talent.” Although she has interviewed tons of famous singers, and not as well 

known bands that Indieville is famous for bringing to your attention, Lizzie does 

have a favorite.  “I enjoyed interviewing a band called ‘The Tip.’ Those guys are 

by far talented with tons of high energy that you immediately connect with!”

(See www.thetipband.com)  

As a busy host and artist, Lizzie is always working.  Currently her priority is 

“Getting enough really good songs to make an album.”  Ms. Miller is hard at work 

and says “I am in the process of recording new songs I have written as well as 

some other originals and putting together a new music video.

A songwriter, Lizzie says (true to the independent spirit of IndievilleTV) “I am 

writing songs that are not the average songs you hear on the radio and trying to 

write songs that will be unique and different.”

Uniquely her own, but with gorgeous hints of classic country are songs like “The 

Mask” and “Heartache Ends.” 

We at Indieville love our Lizzie whether it’s in front our mic and camera, or behind 

her own.

As for this year at IndievilleTV Lizzie is committed to “Always improving and 

making the show more interesting and fun entertainment!” We’re sure, her MO 

with her new music is the same. 

To hear more of Lizzie’s music, you can visit  www.reverbnation.com/lizziemiller 

Indie Ville TV #75 The Clover Club’s Dustin Rye and Their “Booze Fueled Hard Rock from the Heart of Tennessee”

Written by K.L. Graham                                           

It was the night of the first band practice, and all through the house, not a creature was 

not rocking out, not even a mouse.

When Dustin Rye’s father walked down into the basement he said “You boys are rowdy, 

kind of like The Clover Club.”

The Clover Club was the stuff of legends, a greasy bar where all the fathers and 

grandfathers of small town McEwen went to party. Unfortunately, the bar burned down 

in 1976, but thanks to the boys of the band of The Clover Club, the rowdy spirit of the 

bar lives on. 

As Dustin Rye (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Chris Campbell (bass) and Shawn Jones (Drums) 

were working on their first ep and throwing around band names they thought of a few, 

but each one was “Not as good as The Clover Club.”  

And that perhaps is the storybook beginning of the band The Clover Club, or it would 

have been if not for the fact that the band is more like 3/4th hard rock and 1/4th whiskey 

and 0 parts fairytale.

It’s songs like “Trouble” and “Diamonds and Cherries” That bring to mind the iconic 

imagery of early Rock N’ Roll.

Justin says “I draw a lot of influence from Jimi Hendrix.  A lot of our music is about living 

life on the wild side. Our first ep was kinda based on the kind of gambling and life in the 

fast lane.”

The band’s early inclinations of what they might become was a wild ride, with more hints 

of Fear and Loathing than a breezy motorcycle ride down an old Tennessee lane. 

Dustin Rye says the guys love “ACDC, Van Halen, (and) Good old sweaty rock n’ roll.

When asked what the band’s favorite song was to play live, Dustin said “Oh wow that’s 

a tough one. I’d have to say it’s a toss up between ‘Trouble’ or ‘Devil.’ Both of those 

songs we get a very good response for. ‘Trouble’ is one of the first songs we wrote as a 

group.”

“Trouble” is definitely a heavy hitter of The Clover Club’s first ep, which they have 

recently recorded and are releasing in 2016 as a way to stay true to their early roots, but 

also adding finesse to their fan favorites.

“We’re just gunna give it away for free. The people who ask about the songs have 

already bought it. We want people to hear those songs.”

The free ep will feature 4 of the band’s older tunes, and two brand new ones.  In 2016, 

old fans with sparkles in their eyes with the remembrance of the old Club, and new fans, 

(hopefully even some new groupies) will flock to the band’s new gigs and continue to 

worship the rock n’ roll spirit of The Clover Club.

When asked if The Clover Club has groupies yet, Dustin laughed and said “No not 

particularly.  We’re working on it. We got a pretty good (fan)base.  Our base is growing.  

We’ve made a lot of friends playing in Nashville this last year.  We’re kinda transitioning 

to being more than just friends in the crowd.”

The guys of The Clover Club are also transitioning from their small town of McEwen and 

into the hotter Nashville music scene.  

“There’s no real music base bars of McEwen. It’s a cover band town. We play mostly 

originals.” 

The Clover Club is taking their new originals, and re-released ep to the public. 

“We have a very 2016 planned. We picked up a manager a very nice guy Derek 

Capron. He is a very ambitious individual who’s been in the scene for a while…I feel 

really good with my ambition and Derek’s.  It’s going to be a big year for us.”

The Clover Club is set to go on tour in early 2016 with dates in Ohio, Jacksonville, St. 

Louis and Georgia along with Nashville clubs, and they plan on putting out a music 

video. You can bet there will whiskey and some fabulous debauchery involved.

The Clover Club new/old EP Straight Hustle Flush is out now and so is some of their 

leaked “The Black Album.”

Be sure to check out songs like ‘Trouble’ and ‘Slow Burn” And spoiler alert, Dustin’s 

Dad may be responsible for 1/3rd of the band and the band name, but this writer is 

demanding the next record be named “Welcome to the Clover Club.” After all, it’s even 

in their Facebook name: www.facebook.com/welcometothecloverclub, Check it out on 

Facebook and the band’s other pages to hear all the latest and new music. 

 www.cloverclub.bandcamp.com and www.reverbnation.com/thecloverband www.cloverclub.bandcamp.com 

Indie Ville TV #74 FIRESHIPS to play The Basement in Nashville on Tuesday, January 12th

For Immediate Release

"Purely a joy to listen to. Their playful yet smart lyrics combine with brilliant instrumentation to make this one you need to grab... a wonderful album." – INDEPENDENT CLAUSES

“’Come Back To Me’ sounds something like an indie campfire jam, with a sing-along chorus and a convivial mood making it an ideal invitation for the Fireships LP. Existing somewhere between indie rock and folk revival, Fireships have offered up a promising start.” – POPMATTERS

“Fireships mixes the earth and the streets like many great bands do, but most of all they feel like something brand new.” – THE MORTON REPORT

FIRESHIPS PLAYS THE BASEMENT ON JANUARY 12th

** Honey Brothers Founder and Indie Veteran Andrew Vladeck Returns with Eclectic New Band **

  

Fireships, the new project from Honey Brothers founder and New York City indie veteran Andrew Vladeck kicks off a new leg of national touring and will come to Nashville for a show at The Basement on Tuesday, January 12th.

Fireships released their self-titled debut on April 21st via End Up Records. The 13-song album melds indie-folk and Americana with some West African influences into an elegant affair that evokes shades of Lou Reed, Paul Simon’s Graceland and Deer Tick. An album that patrols the foggy edges of American music from the shores of the East River.

Their whimsical first video for “Countdown Time” was premiered exclusively on SYFFAL. Vladeck himself helmed the video, casting himself as a meandering drunken astronaut. It was shot guerrilla style all over New York City, from the USS Intrepid (where they were able to sneak inside an actual Mercury Era space capsule) to the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. At one point Andrew even wears his old Urban Park Ranger uniform (yep, he was actually once an NYC park ranger!) for the scene where he pulls his astronaut character over.

The band also debuted the album’s first track “Come Back To Me” with PopMatters, and premiere-streamed the entire album via The Big Takeover who called it "Finely crafted, tuneful, passionate music."

LISTEN, SHARE & FEEL FREE TO POST:

“Countdown Time” (video)

“Come Back To Me” (audio)

“Gush” (audio)

“Countdown Time” (audio)

Fireships are preparing new video for the next single "Come Back To Me" and will soon announce more touring for winter and spring.

The story of FIRESHIPS:

Taking their name from the Hudson River sloops that repelled the British warships before the Battle of Brooklyn – using fire and water to fight darkness with light – Brooklyn-based Fireships makes guitar-driven alt-folk that’s dreamy and fiery, spontaneous and well-crafted. Forming in 2013, Fireships is the musical entity Andrew Vladeck created while living in the Hudson Valley last winter, when visiting musician friends colored in the songs he was writing. “I realized that songs are fireships; cast against darkness to brighten the way,” says Vladeck. As the band’s upcoming self-titled debut album covers ground, you’re hearing the journey the band can make, from a self-contained solo act to a collaborative clique of excellent musicians.

Fireships’ singer-songwriting is classic yet keenly modern, mixing choice folk-rock spanning decades and featuring finger-picked electric guitar of American Folk and West African influence, recalling Lou Reed, Paul Simon’s Graceland, and Deer Tick. Vladeck’s lyrics resonate with the depth and sophistication of the folk tradition; the sound is more contemporary – arrangements billow with bass and strident drums, triumphal organs and harmonies. Multi-instrumentalist Lauren Balthrop’s (Dear Georgiana) Emmylou-esque artistry blends with Andrew’s unvarnished delivery. Rhythm section team Chris Buckridge and Jason Lawrence fuse bass and drums, lending gravitas to songs like drunken astronaut fantasy “Countdown Time.” Dynamic violinist Hannah Thiem, the newest addition to the band, sustains and colors their sound.

The New York City-born Vladeck has always been equally drawn to both the modern energy of the city and the ancient pace of nature, fascinated by the ways they interact. He found a way to combine these interests as a NYC Urban Park Ranger-Historian, stationed in Central Park. As a result of a spontaneous public performance while in uniform, he found himself doing double duty as “The Singing Ranger.”  His music evolved along these lines, incorporating city-modern and country-traditional aesthetics. His first guitar and first lesson were compliments of his father’s cousin, the Grammy-nominated traditional-rock musician David Bromberg. Fireships evolve from these hybrid beginnings.

Fireships recorded in Brooklyn, with producer Paul Loren’s virtuosic contributions  and numerous drop-ins by talented friends such as the legendary composer David Amram. “Come Back to Me,” with its playful pennywhistle, chirpy guitar grooves and rollicking drums, contrasts with enchanting quiet moments, as in the haunting ballad “Carried Away,” written with Sydney Wayser (Clara Nova), who also sings on the track. There’s the cheeky candor of “Passing Knowledge of the Sexes,” mostly guitar, percussion and voice. And sometimes they’ll just knock out a rocker like “Going Down Fighting” with Vladeck cranking out some satisfyingly sizzling guitar.

Fireships debut album will be released in 2015. Demos of songs on the album have recently won awards: "Gush" & "Countdown Time" are winners in the Great American Song Contest; "Chasing the Sun" won the Vox Pop Award as part of the Occupy This Album compilation for the Independent Music Awards. Previously “The Songs You Inspire” won First Place (AAA) in the International Songwriting Competition and Vladeck was voted NYC Artist of the Month in The Deli Magazine. The Village Voice has called his band “bold and brassy, nothing but fun.“ Some of these contests were judged by the same artists that inspired him to play music in the first place. Vladeck is also a founding member of The Honey Brothers and Balthrop, Alabama.

Official Site – Facebook – Twitter – iTunes – Instagram – Bandcamp

# # #

For more information, music and interview requests please contact:

Jason Consoli at Perpetual Media Relations

PerpetualMR@gmail.com, 917.446.1705

Indie Ville TV #73 Don Pedigo: The Student Becomes the Master, and other Tales from the Heartland

Written by -K.L. Graham                                                  

Don Pedigo is a force to be reckoned with.  Recently Don appeared on Roots Music Report’s coveted Top 50 Chart where he was #30 with his new album “The Crossed Eyed Sessions.” Tom Petty appeared on the same chart at #38.

 Not only did Don’s album garnish the Roots Music Report’s Top 50 Rock Album Chart, but his song “You’ve got Everything” also won accolades on Roots Music Report’s Top 50 Roots Rock Song Chart at #31: Just above Mr. Pedigo was Bruce Springsteen at #29.

Appearing with the likes of Tom Petty, Springsteen, and John Mellencamp may be a notch on Don
Pedigo’s musical belt, but what is more fascinating than his chart placement is the man himself.  Don’s life is balanced on hard work, his family, and of course his music.  The blue collar, heart lander image, is no joke, part of Pedigo’s success is because of his relentless work ethic.

 “A lot of people don’t know this about me. When I’m not touring I’m a licensed electrician…When we get off the phone I’m going to go in a crawl space. I sort of live a double life in that essence.”

Not only is Mr. Pedigo a member of Local #429, when he is couch surfing on the road, yes couch surfing, he often offers his electrician and handyman services as to say “Thank You” to his hosts.

No, this isn’t the image of the American Rock Star; this is the American Traveler, the Cowboy, with tools in one hand, and guitar in the other, bringing stories and goodness to one and all.

Don doesn’t have a 5 Star Tour Bus, instead he has good friends and hosts across the nation, where he gigs in TX and LA often.  Mr. Pedigo recently even played the coveted SXSW Festival, the Mesa Music Festival, and even Americana week here in Nashville of them meccas for musicians everywhere.

As for his attraction to the Heartland Don says “Well in my travels as an adult what it means to be is
coming from the heart of America…When I tour the mid west I feel very much a part of the land and the people. My parents weren’t farmers, they were evangelists.    I think that represents/symbolizes what a heart lander might be. The hard working blue collar man to the table… Not to say that you can always tell where somebody’s from but in essence, the values and work ethic, and I‘d like to think the politeness of the country folk I suppose that’s what that means to me.”

Polite and from the country he may be, but it’s his emotional songs that garnish attention.  On his
favorite song Don says “It usually goes back to ‘Sad man’, across the board whether I’m in a listening room situation or I’m playing a festival.”

Emotionally charged as he may be, in real life, Don’s life seems to be a happy one, complete with a
beautiful family.

Don has two daughters, one is a senior at Tennessee Tech who wants to become a music teacher, and a 7 year old daughter who thinks he is “just as cool as Ariana Grande.”  And even if his older daughter may not idolize him as much as the little one, Don says “And even if she doesn’t think Dad’s cool, she grew up knowing that Daddy was a rockstar and she knew music was a part of our home.”

When’s he’s out of the home, on tour Don never forgets his three best girls.  “I always bring home
stories and special gifts… In my home we accept each other for who we are. Sometimes it’s not the most comfortable.  (After a long time away) It took me a few days to reacclimatize.  The arts aren’t treated as an esteemed job…but it is a job. It’s just a job.”

Music and life in Nashville is Don Pedigo’s job and home.  He says:  “Just that feeling I get when I’m writing around that little area, Vanderbilt, 21st. I get that excitement from when I first moved from little Indiana to Nashville. It’s the same comfortable feeling of ‘This what you’re supposed to do.’ Songwriting in Nashville especially in that little area; I just feel so at home.”

On his writing Don says he channels his music by being prepared physically, emotionally and spiritually.   I believe, and I’ve witnessed that if I wanna write a song about a certain topic or subject. I believe that the universe gives it to you, if you want it.”  He went on to say “It takes a special discipline to keep yourself clear and centered.” For Pedigo that discipline comes from a strict diet and exercise routine, and like any true Heartlander a healthy of dose of love for family, God, and country.

On his current charting successes, and new album The Cross Eyed Sessions, Pedigo says:  “I’ve got to take a moment and give thanks to God for this. All that work has paid off and I’ve arrived I guess.”

It was clear when he first came to Nashville that he had arrived, writing immediately with Earl Bud Lee and James House after doing a demo with the famous Larry Crane, and being scouted by Patsy Sermersheim. From those encounters came a Publishing deal and recording career that’s culminated in his success in the Roots/Rock genre.

Upcoming for Mr. Pedigo is the continuation of his tour, and look out for his new video in January for his song “She Turns Me On.”

To find out more about Don Pedigo you can visit his website www.donpedigo.com for all his new music, news, tour dates, and links to his social media pages.

Now go get acquainted with the man from Indiana with the guitar and toolbelt on his knee.

Indie Ville TV #72 The Rivalry- The Guys Give Us The Scoop on The Rivalry’s New EP

Written -K.L. Graham                                      

The Rivalry made up of Adam Carson on vocals, Andrew Jones, on guitar, Jesse Blankenship, on Bass, Keegan Kelly on drums and Billy Herchenbach on guitar is an ambient groove rock band right here out of Nashville.

But just what is ambient groove rock you ask?

Luckily Adam Carson, lead singer and Keegan Kelly, the drummer of the Rivalry took some time to clarify about the genre, the guys in the band, and their awesome new EP out of BlackBird Studios.

According to drummer Keegan “Ambient Groove Rock to us is: We take the ambiance
of a lot of delay with guitar: Andrew is kind of prone to that over the past few years. I guess the groove, our base player is really into funky sounding base lines, really hard hitting. I guess the rock is pretty self explanatory.”

As for their favorite song on the new EP the band seems to be in agreement that their favorite song to
perform is “The Good View.” Keegan added that not only has it got the band’s favorite status, that “It’s our newest song we’re performing live.”

There’s not only new music coming from the band, but also new relationships! Andrew, the band’s
guitar player has just recently gotten married. Luckily relationships don’t affect the band’s productivity. Adam says “We’ve all been pretty dedicated.” He describes Andrew’s wife as “lovely” and he also said “I’m currently dating someone who’s been the muse for two songs, so far it’s all been positive.”

Adam didn’t say which songs were inspired by his lady love, but you can listen to the EP and take a guess for yourself.

Whether or not it’s about someone in real life, the song that really captures an ambient but fierce sort
of love is ‘Josephine’s Ghost.’ Its haunting and lovelorn with a lot of rock and perhaps just a slight nod to Sublime. It’s definitely a song to add to your new playlist or catch at one of The Rivalry’s live shows.

Speaking of shows and local Nashville hotspot, when asked about favorite Nashville venues, Keegan says “Venues we’ve played already, my favorite so far would be a toss up between The End and The East Room.” Adam adds “It (The End) was where we played our first show…we will be playing there again on the 29th.”

Not only have The End and The East Room been influential spots for the band, The Rivalry has been in the studio with Austin Seltzer at BlackBird Studios, a place that has brought for their new EP set to come in December or January of 2016. On creating at Blackbird, Keegan says “A really big highlight for me personally I guess I really enjoyed having the freedom to kinda play around with the set up they provided for me. They were very easy to work with. There was no pushing, no feeling of being rushed.” He went on to say that “The Engineers... They couldn’t have been better. The other thing just the equipment that was at our disposal was ridiculous.”

Adam added “I’d have to say the pedigree of the building itself, so many magical performances have
been captured in that place.” Adam also said of working on the new music “This is a dream come true really.”

Adam, lead singer and newest to Nashville explains “I was the latest edition, all these guys kinda have known each other. I came from New Jersey about three years ago. Joel Roderick, he was running an open mic and that’s where I met Keegan...”

The magic and the music with all of the guys stemmed from there and has culminated in the form of
their collective sound and the new EP.

Not only is teasing the new EP (see more at www.facebook.com/TheRivalryBand), but the band has also been causing quite a stir on 102.9 The Buzz with their song “Rise.”

With songs like “Rise” it’s no wonder that The Rivalry is catching the ears of radio folk and underground listener alike.

To find out more about the men of The Rivalry, you can see them on Instagram: @therivalryofficial,
Twitter: @TheRivalryTN, at Reverb: @Rivalryseven and of course on their hot facebook homepage
www.facebook.com/TheRivalryBand.

And of course, don’t forget to catch them at their next live show on Nov. 29th at The End where the guys of The Rivalry will be playing along with Ravenhill, Yesteryear, and Well Wisher.  Spoiler Alert: They will be debuting their favorite new song “The Good Year” for the first time at the Nov 29th show! Don’t miss it!

Indie Ville TV #71 The Band Summertime

Written Curtis Gardner
How did the group come together? Did any of you know each other prior to joining the group?

NG: Summertime started off as my side project. I (Nathan Goodlet, vocals, guitar) always wanted to
make pop punk and after graduating college I decided to move to Nashville, Tn to make that happen. I didn’t know a lot of people until I started going to a small bible study group. I was speaking one night and talked about a camp back in Florida I worked for. Afterwards Keith Perez (now bassist) came up and told me that he used to attend that same camp as a kid. We became friends and started playing for a pop artist named Cappa. About a year after playing together with Cappa, we met Matt Dougan (now drummers) through a mutual friend because Matt was interested in playing for Cappa. I had a friend booking a show for a touring band and asked if I could have a band together in a month for a show so I asked Keith and Matt to join me and we’ve been playing together ever since.

How did Summertime get their stage name?

NG: The name Summertime came from a song by a group called Mae.

What is the group musical influences? What artist(s) Do you draw the most influence from?

NG: We all have different types of music that we enjoy listening to. Keith loves riff based rock like
Muse and Mutemath but his favorite band is The Chariot, Matt always try to get me to listen to stuff
like Chris Brown and I tell him no. Matt also shares my love of pop punk though too. So when I went into the studio with producer Josiah Prince of Disciple I told him I was looking for that The Starting
Line sound. An early 2000s pop punk emo vibe. While in the studio Josiah and I would discuss Blink
182, Further Seems Forever and his former band Philmont. I’ve been drawing a lot from Mxpx, New
Found Glory and hitting up some of these newer acts like The Story So Far, Neck Deep, and Real
Friends.

Do u remember your first gig? If so, what's was that performance like?

NG: Our first gig was horrible. It was at a dive bar in Nashville called Daisy Duke’s. You walk in and the first thing you notice is the giant zombie painting behind the stage which you later learn is the undead version of Daisy the bartender. We were the only local band so they put us last. We kept
telling them “We only have three songs!” but they put us as the headliner anyways. As soon as we
started my guitar cable decided to short out and when I went to put a new one in I forgot to plug it into the amp. It was stressful to say the least. We played our three songs and were like “well that’s
it….goodnight”

What's the process like of creating music in the studio?

NG: I had it super easy recording with Josiah. I sent him acoustic versions and by the time I got to his studio he had fully produced tracks that I was more than pleased with. So it was super easy. I just got
there laid down vocals and we tweaked a few things but it was really quick.

What is the group current plans? Are you pushing any new music or have any new shows coming
soon?

NG: I am currently writing for a new full length album. Keith and I are still playing for Cappa and she is blowing up so that is taking a lot of our time and focus but I am still writing when I can. We have been playing some new songs as well as a cover song by Acceptance at our shows. I hope to have a new song recorded and a music video done by the end of the year. Nashville friends can see us at Rocketown December 18th.

Outside of music what else do you enjoy? What are your hobbies or interests?

NG: Matt is a health nut and always working out and eating healthy. I’m sure Keith has hobbies out of music but that kid is always working on some kind of music. Whether he is producing other artists
albums, creating music for a new video game app called “Death Kitty,” or working on a score for a
movie he can usually be found in his studio. I work at the YMCA and it takes up all my free time but
every Sunday I love to meet up with a group of friends and play baseball.

What advice would you give a band coming up?

NG: Just keep playing. Never think of yourself higher than you ought. I played with a band back in
Florida and I got such a big head because I thought we were so cool. Just play what you love and love what you play. If we wanted to be rich and famous we probably wouldn’t be playing pop punk.

How can we find Summertime online?

NG: You can go to www.summertimeTN.com and there are links to all forms of social media. We
have it all: Facebook, ReverbNation, Instagram, Twitter, Tinder, you name it.

Any final words or shout outs?

NG: Check out our album for free at www.noisetrade.com/summertime

Indie Ville TV #70 Jenni Alpert: “Until Then"

Written by -K.L.Graham

Jenni Alpert is a fabulous singer songwriter. Travelling around the globe performing, and recording as she goes Jenni lets her sultry sound do the talking.  In describing her sound Jenni says “I am a singer songwriter. Soul, folk, jazz, pop, and world music are all undercurrents of influence, so: Soul-Americana singer- songwriter may be a fitting description for today. But really, to me it's just music - and I hope "Does this make me feel?" Is more the defining point.”

“Does this make me feel?” is a question she answers not only with her music, but with her life story.
Adopted at the age of four, Jenni spent her beginning moments in foster homes, a journey that helped
prepare her for a life as a travelling musician.  Ms. Alpert has self-funded her world tour, an
accomplishment she is very proud of.

“I tour regardless of security because I truly believe that music effects the brain, stimulates, heals, evokes change, and connects people and to me that these are some of the greatest reasons to perform music and valuable purposes to fulfill. If people feel something when I sing and that feeling and thought does something better for their life, my purpose has been met.”

Her purpose with songs like “Heaven” and her work on “Until Then” is clear, to find and spread love with her music.

What is so wonderful about Ms. Alpert’s work, along with her new music, and European tour, which she is currently on now, has been her fearlessness state side and abroad with her many different avenues of production, performance, and pressed records.

One of Jenni’s albums “Shining Light,” was released by Cappuccino Records in Italy on vinyl.  Vinyl has made a huge comeback with collectible records, and record players being coveted by thrifters, music lovers, and shoppers around the globe.

When asked what the pros and cons were to putting out a vinyl record, Jenni says “I haven't found a con about offering an album pressed to vinyl yet. Even people who don't have record players come up after shows and request one. That's pretty cool.”

Not only has been brave with her physical recordings, Jenni has also been featured live on Sirius’s
coffeehouse XM Radio which will be released later in November.  She also was part of a PBS live
recording at the famous Sun Studios.

“Recording at Sun Studios in Memphis was a real mark in the development of my musical journey and recording experiences because it was in that studio where we were reminded that the live, bare, and raw in the moment could leave a certain kind of sonic mark - honest and true with no molding to do.”

Her live performances and subsequent recordings are such a hit because of her jazzy appeal, her talent, and of course her degree from UCLA’s Ethnomusicology Department doesn’t hurt her musical street cred either. From humble beginnings to world renowned singer songwriter, it’s clear that Jenni Alpert has the world at her feet.

To hear “Until Then” released by S Curve records and recorded with Guthrie Trapp “live in one take” from Nashville TN, you can stream the album here: https://m.soundcloud.com/jennialpert/sets/until-
then and find more about Jenni, her music, and her talented team members throughout her career at
www.jennialpert.com.

Indie Ville TV #69 Nicholle Rae- How she’s growing up and coming into her own in the heart of Music City

Written by K. L. Graham                                  

Originally from Arlington TX, country music singer Nicholle Rae only just moved to Nashville to June, but with songs like “Fireball” and “What Do You Want From Me” it’s clear that she is putting her own splash of fire around town, with her new songs, YouTube presence, and Downtown Broadway gigs.

Moving to Nashville and away from her family and native Texas has been a big step both personally and professionally.  Nicholle admits that since moving to Nashville, her music has matured and says“I feel like I’m growing up.”

At just 22, she has been gigging for most of her life, from her early school days to her pageant years.
“Growing up I went to a Catholic school. I was always in the choir.” Choir and her Texas roots led her to a starting career in pageantry. “I did pageants for a while. I always got to sing country…I only mainly did it to have venues to sing at.”  And sing she did, taking home Miss Teen Texas Overall Female Vocalist in 2008 at just 15 years old.

Now, at 22, it’s clear Nicholle is ready to perform on a whole new level. Nicholle says of her saucy new song “Fireball,” “It’s like my baby, like I LOVE that song.” And it’s no wonder, with its great lyrics and come hither vibe, “Fireball” has the all the makings of a Honky Tonky hit.

No stranger to throwing back her favorite whiskey, Nicholle balances her party side with beautiful
ballads (“Lead Me On”) and her volunteer work. “I’m really passionate about volunteering.” Back in
Texas, Nicholle Rae assisted at a school where she worked with children with Down syndrome, and says that if she wasn’t a country music artist she would most likely be a Social Education Teacher.

For now though, Nicholle is focusing solely on her music. Singing at Tootsies and Honky Tonky Central, Rae has been cutting her teeth with the best of them, performing in front of Broadway audiences and working on her songwriting.  Back in Texas, Rae was crafting songs with Tim Angston, collaborating with him on her own songs, and lending her vocals to “Just Getting By” and “Please Forgive Me” among others.

Now in Nashville and on her own, Nicholle is working on new music, and coming into her own. Rae looks up to artists like Christiana Aguilera, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, and Kacey Musgraves, women who can pack a punch with both their voices and lyrics, so it’s no wonder Rae’s own music is all at once powerful and sweet.

Nicholle has been winning hearts here in Nashville and back home in Texas and is a featured artist of
Today’s Texas Country.

Whether your taste is party songs, or love songs, with her huge voice and sweet personality, Nicholle
Rae has something for you.

To see hear more of her music you can visit www.nicholleraemusic.com as well as YouTube, Facebook, Spotify, Reverb Nation and ITunes.

Indie Ville TV #68 Salar I can only write what I actually experience

Written by K.L . Graham

                                                      

When you speak to Salar Rajabnik, it is quite clear you are speaking to an artist. His overwhelming sense of artistry and intelligence is inescapable in a way that you aren’t sure if you are being bombarded by madness, or magic, or both. A self-proclaimed “aspiring polymath” (Follow his Instagram @officialsalar I dare you) Salar clearly knows about much more than just his music.

Salar’s worldly education comes in part from hi bi-cultural upbringing and in part because he is a

‘musician’s musician.’ He’s a guy who can talk about bass tones for hours, and how his U.S. hometown Kansas City was instrumental in the beginnings of jazz, but also is an activist for peace and his own Persian culture. The juxtaposition of being culturally aware but also a rock n’ roller is evident throughout his work.

“So I kinda grew up in Kansas City and Iran…(Kansas) It’s where I started playing music. I moved here to Nashville four years ago.” Rajabnik has also spent time in Atlanta and has performed around the world. When asked about his favorite place to play in the U.S. he says; “In the US it’s so tough, I’m gunna cheat a little bit. I really love playing my hometown (KC), it feels like playing with family.” With hometown pride, and excitement for an upcoming show he gushes about the blues and jazz tradition and the Kansas crowd who have a great sense of arts appreciation. “I get to play for people who really love art.” He goes on to say “I also really love playing in Los Angeles. It kinda feels like another home. It’s like a big hang. People just want to lay low and jam and go to the beach.”

Whether he is playing a show as Minnie Driver’s guitar player in L.A., with his old band MoonAge at

Nashville favorite ‘The Family Wash’, or jamming on his own, it’s clear that Salar’s nomadic life as a musician makes it easy for him to feel at home in cities all over. That said, Salar’s real sense of home and pride comes from his Persian culture. He could give a dissertation on Persian history and the important cultural differences between modern day Iran, and the Persia of old, but in short he explains“Islam arose in Saudia Arabia and spread as far East as China in the 1300s…Fast forward a couple hundred years, it became The Islamic Republic of Iran…I guess you could say re branded, if a country can be re branded.”

No stranger to rebranding, Rajabnik needed a new stage moniker after the breaking up of his last project MoonAge. Salar Rajabnik (although actually quite easy to pronounce Ra-Hab-Nik) can be a mouthful for an audience, and friends assured him “SALAR could be a cool band name or a solo thing.”

So SALAR it is. Losing the last name gives Salar artistic freedom to move from solo act to band, but his heritage remains an important part of his narrative. Rajabnik continued explaining the re branding of his nation, as well as his new work.

“Iran was Persian until fairly recently in history. Persia was never an Islamic Nation. Persians are

ethnically different from Arabic and Turkish people. They’re kinda their own thing.”

Persia was once a place of many different religions living peace. Persians are known for their textiles,

music, and culture, so it’s no wonder Salar is proud of his ancestral home. “Being raised bi-culturally, I consider myself like an activist.” An activist for music, the arts, and peace Salar says: “Persians…they are lovely people.”

When it comes to music, the love of people, and need to outcry against injustice often fuels Salar’s

music. “I hate the ‘P’ word, but some people think my work is political. I’ve got protest songs. At the

same time, I’ve got fun songs.” Salar goes on to say that when it comes to injustice: “It’s your moral

imperative to speak out.”

While still working with MoonAge, Rajabnik penned the song “Killers” while watching the news. The troops were being pulled out of Afghanistan and the devastation of the war enraged the balladeer.

On his new record, “Black and White World” SALAR’s own personal anthem, he says “I want to be

colorblind.”

Salar understands the world in which he lives, while at the same time wants a more peaceful, softer,

world. A world where everything isn’t black and white, divided by things like the color of your skin, or the region of the world you hail from. Maybe a world where everyone knows that Harrison is the best Beatle and that Jeff Goldblum is “The North Star of Cool,” a world where people are more focused on a great vibe, and less focused on the labels that are so often imposed on us.

One label we can all look forward to is SALAR’s new album “Black and White World.” Working on Black and White World was an emotional experience for Salar. “What I heard in my head is exactly what I accomplished. I really believe in the message behind the songs. I’m excited to show people what that looks like and what that sounds like. On the album, Salar gives credit where credit is due.

“I have to credit David Wright. We went through a lot personally. The record became like a bonding

point between the two of us.”

SALAR isn’t all history lessons and protest songs. His much anticipated song “In a Little While” is a story within itself. “It’s written from the perspective of a girl that’s had a tough hand dealt to her in life and is still hopeful despite her circumstances.” With this new album, his audience has a lot to look forward to. “Black and White World” will be released in three installments of EPs over the next few months collectively making up one full album. He says of the creation of the album at Cherrybox Studios “You’ll walk into a place and immediately feel inspired. You’re in that place and that place affects you. It was a safe place to create. Cherrybox and David were super crucial to the whole process.”

“Black and White World Vol. 1, 2, & 3” will be released in the Fall. To find out more about SALAR and hear what magic came out of Cherrybox, you can visit www.salarrajabnik.com.

Indie Ville TV #67 Lennox Munroe Talks Body Confidence- “Whether you’re a size two, or a size 12, you’re still beautiful.”

Written by -K.L. Graham                        

Lennox Munroe is a busty, blonde model who has been cultivating her career from years of working with photographers, and creating her own image.  With her cropped hair, tattoos, and curves, it would be easy to put this girl into a fancy boudoir box, but that’s not Lennox’s prerogative. A lover of art and a passionate advocate for body confidence, Lennox wants to inspire young girls, and ensure them that they are beautiful no matter what their size. “Whether you’re a size 2 or a size 12, you’re still beautiful.”

When asked if she feels most comfortable in boudoir, the model replied “No, No, I don’t. I kinda fell into that.” And went on to say “But if the photographer needs it and I’m comfortable with them, it’s ok.”

Off duty, Lennox prefers comfort and yoga pants or basic jeans and tees.   “My favorite outfit would be my ripped up jeans, my boots, and a trendy t-shirt,” an outfit that has become a staple of women’s
fashion for Nashville natives.

Originally from Knoxville TN, at the age of seven, Lennox moved to Nashville.  “Nashville has pretty much always been home.”

And where girls from New York may idolize Kate Moss, or more recently Kate Upton, for Lennox, she found her idol right at home: her mom.  “I saw a picture of her when she was younger, it was stunning.  After that, I thought: Maybe that’s something I could try.”  Lennox attributes her looks and her life to her hard working mother.  “I owed it to her to make the most of the opportunities I was given.”

As for career goals, Lennox declares “My immediate goal is to get published.” Having been published before, Munroe is eager to be featured in more publications, and has been cutting her teeth with Nashville based photographers.

Being an independent model may have its pros and cons, but in her down to earth way, Lennox says “It’s actually opened a few doors for me to meet people. I’ve been given the opportunity to talk to teenagers about body image.”

Lennox hopes to be a role model and thinks that young women need to be encouraged by setting goals for themselves, and knowing that they are beautiful inside and out.  “It’s very important we start at a young age. They are perfect the way they are, trust that. Be around positive people.  There’s so much negativity. I’ve learned that the hard way.”

What is so interesting about Lennox Munroe (besides her fabulous Van Gogh tattoo and rockin’ bod) is her passion for self-love and confidence. She’s tough, and beautiful, and ready to show the world that every woman, every person, is beautiful in their own way.   To see more of Lennox’s life in photography,

and more about her personally, you can visit her page at www.facebook.com/LennoxMunroe

Indie Ville TV #66 Gritty soul rockers, Ravenhill

Written by Ryn R.      


                                                                 

Recalling their early days, Ravenhill front-man and founder Josh Clifton remembers

thinking "I don't think anyone will wanna hear a while guy sing soul." 

Relocating to Nashville to explore the music scene, this Illinois born band fit right in 

the their gutsy, soul rock vibe.  

Made up of members Clifton, Taylor Chance, Brady Clifton, Mike Bay, Dane Johns, 

Kyle Hassenfratz, Ravenhill is a team effort. 

Clifton crafts shells of possible songs, throwing it around the band until they are 

satisfied with it's content and meaning consisting of "whatever we believe, are going 

through, or are terrified of." 

Dedication is the basis of Ravenhill, Clifton remarking that when he was starting out 

he "wanted friends who believed in Ravenhill, and the songs…" and were 

enthusiastic about their sound. 

This energy carries through into their live shows where grit and feeling are 

palpable, infecting the crowd and creating fans.  

Their most recent album, Soul, was released back in March through record label 

Slospeak, propelling the band forwards as they further establish their sound and 

lyrical style. 

Clifton looks forward to the band down the road with the possibility of adding a 

horn section and back-up singers to create the ultimate experience. 

Check out their local shows at the Crying Wolf on October 22nd, then The End 

sometime early November. 

Listen to their jams on iTunes, YouTube, FaceBook, Spotify, and ravenhillband.com.

Indie Ville TV #65 Country breakthrough Ty March

Written by Ryn R.

                                                                   

 With an EP in the works along with a move down to Music City itself, Ty March is a

very busy individual. After touring with various bands over the years as a drummer, 

one of them being metal core group Capture the Crown, March decided to strike out 

on his own and settle down with his true passion: country music. 

"When I was on tour with Capture I was writing all these country songs when 

random ideas would pop into my head. Country started to take over as my number 

one so I had to roll with it. It was a pretty natural transition because I just followed 

my heart."

Although a long-time Pennsylvania resident, March enjoyed seeing different parts of 

the country while on tour and decided to take his country career to the next level by 

moving to Nashville; "I have a few friends down there. Love everyone there. The 

southern hospitality is awesome."

March will always be proud of his home up north and explains that "I have a lot of 

people here that really believe in me and want to see me make it…it's a mix of both 

country lovers and people that liked me from past projects…it really feels good to 

have such a strong backbone here in my hometown."

Explore March's sound on YouTube, iTunes, FaceBook and tymarch.net.

Indie Ville TV #64 Woman of Many Musical Hats, Sharon Koltick

Written by Ryn R.                              

"Eight years ago…I came down from Indiana to  get involved in the music scene," 

Sharon Koltick shares, further commenting on watching the growth and 

development of Music City's indie and alternative culture. 

Retiring her band Kink Ador which was "started when I first moved to 

Nashville…kinda a long and winding road" for her most recent enterprise, Dead 

Cures, Koltick enjoys the collaborative nature of the project. 

Made up of ex-Adore band-mates Evan Buchanan, Michael Kisak, and Koltick herself, 

Dead Cures is expected to release web-wide any day now. 

With two bands under her belt, Koltick also nurtures her own personal side project 

with Gregory Lattimer, Sharon Koltick Presents, which has recently released the 

album MISSIONARY. 

Established as a musical catch-all transforming bits and pieces of other songs into 

developed tracks, Koltick explores life and love through her own lense as a 

"response to the Beatles' song; love isn't all you need." 

Building a sense of community and friendship with other musicians and music 

lovers is extremely important to Koltick, who is grateful for venues like the Mercy 

Lounge, the 5 Spot, and The Basement which are "…great places for people to hang 

out and support music."

Dig in to Koltick's live crew, Dead Cures, at The Eastroom October 9th, and then The 

5-Spot October 17th.  

You can find her various projects on either Kink Adore (kinkadore.com), Sharon 

Koltick Presents (thesharona.com), and Dead Cures (deadcures.com), or their 

respective FaceBook, YouTube, and Bandcamp pages.

Indie Ville TV #63 Infectious indie-rock, Rock Eupora

Written by Ryn R.                                            


Clayton Waller explains how the lack of an indie music scene in his home state of
Mississippi pushed him to create music for himself and establish his own sound.

Rock Eupora is Waller's most current project where he controls every aspect of it,
from booking to merch, not to mention producing and personally recording each
instrument on his debut CD, Blanks.

"90% is music first" Waller describes his creative process, "(I'm) big on chord
progression…melodies are big for me, I love something you can dance to…also
something heavy, too."

Waller has been in multiple music projects over the years, evidence of which is
obvious in Rock Eupora's indie rock melodies.

The recent Belmont grad remarks how his transfer to Music City has "definitely
pushed me to get better", also motivating him to stay true and transparent to his
Mississippi roots.

Waller dissects his love/hate relationship with the Nashville music scene, more
specifically, the lack of transparency.

Appreciating the rapper's candor and style, Waller remarks that "Mac Demarco is
transparently himself", adding that while he loves Nashville, he finds too many
artists take themselves too seriously and hinder themselves from fully developing
into their own musical personas.

Stop by The Basement on November 4th to check out Rock Eupora's catchy tunes
live.

Listen to his vibes on rockeupora.com, iTunes, Soundcloud, FaceBook, and Spotify.

Indie Ville TV #62 New England Rocker Bill Zanni

Written by Ryn R
                                                                   

"Ever since I was 10 years old…pretty much the only thing I wanted to do was play
music," Bill Zanni muses. Being the only musician in his family, Zanni has been on
stage since he was 14 ("many, many years ago, let's just say that"), exploring a
variety of genres from alternative to jazz, and has never stopped performing.

Currently working on the second album of his own, the first being From Screamin
Red to Silent Blue (2014), Zanni comments how he hears the music before
production begins and later has to write the lyrics to suit the music.

There are no particular themes that Zanni focuses on in his work, instead he finds
inspiration from "…whatever comes outta me, it's God sent…every song has it's own
story to tell."

As a long-time resident based out of Rhode Island, Zanni keeps busy with not only
his self titled personal project but also three cover bands where he also supplies
guitar, percussion, and vocals.

Zanni is excited about his upcoming album yet to be named especially since he and
his band-mates "gained some good ground with the last album."

Catch Zanni's music on iTunes, Amazon, CD Baby, and his FaceBook page.

Indie Ville TV #61 Photography by Krista Marie Swain: A Look Behind the Lens

Written by K.L. Graham
                                                                                                 

Meeting Krista for the first time, one would never guess her age. With her sparkly speaking voice, and pleasant face this photographer dazzles as bright as the models she photographs.

Growing up in the 70’s, Krista Marie grew bored of the landscapes she learned in school, and instead
turned her camera on her neighbors.  According to Krista this may have a been a little creepy had she
been caught snapping away, but this was the beginnings of a young artist at work; and luckily for little Krista, most of her neighbors loved having their picture taken. Now, just like her neighbors when she was little, people still turn and smile as she takes their photo.

Over the years, Ms. Swain has traveled extensively all the while teaching herself, and taking classes to bolster her knowledge of her craft.  Now living in the Nashville area with her son and boyfriend close by, Krista has been tackling weddings, family portraits, and head shots with creativity and finesse.

Having recently shot with her myself, I can tell you that Krista Marie has an uncanny eye, and a flair for whimsy that captures the essence of the sprite-like-spirit that Nashvillian’s cling to.  Whether she is working with seasoned models, the Indieville crew, or just the mom next door, Krista Marie adds a
splash of beauty of youth to every frame.

Krista Marie is not just another photographer; she is an artist giving people beautiful images of
themselves, and their special moments with her unique flair.

Her ability to step outside of the box, one of her biggest attributes, allows for creative powerful shots
evident in every frame.

To see more for your own eyes Krista Marie’s fresh take on photography and to book your own photo session: you can go to www.photosbykristamarie.com or www.facebook.com/photosbykristamarie

Indie Ville TV # 60 The Rock Icon on the rise Brit Daniels

Written by Ryn R.                                

Celebrating the release of her self titled EPK last month, Daniels reminisces on
growing up an only child with supportive parents who encouraged her love of
music.

"I was the only musical person in my family…the random oddball," she laughs,
explaining how her late father influenced her and motivated her to pursue her love
of music.

Her musical ability and passion for performing started at a young age, introducing
her to the recording studio at the age of 13 while continually maturing and
developing over the years in her hometown of Arlington, Texas,

Her dedication to music pervaded her college years, leading her to find her own
pop-rock style while gaining valuable experience performing live in various venues
around Dallas.

After relocating to Nashville to investigate the radio and artist management scene,
Daniels remarks that it "…helped me so much to think of it (music) more as a
business," allowing her to build professional relationships while giving her insight
into "…the huge mega-business that it is."

Although she misses her home state, Daniels comments that there are "so many
more opportunities here" musically and venues to play at that she feels very
welcome in Music City.

Relocating to Nashville also gave Daniels an opportunity to explore more genres of
music outside of country while becoming familiar with local recording artists,
songwriters, and producers alike.

Her songs of love and heartbreak can be found on her website, britdaniels.com,
iTunes, and Amazon.

Indie Ville TV #59 The new wonder woman of music Fawn Larson

Written by Ryn. R
                                                                                 

                                                                                                   

 Reflecting on one of her first musical experiences in Nashville, Fawn Larson
describes her love of local venue, The Basement, and how it's ambiance and feel
make it"…definitely one of my favorites places to play."

Recently moving from the heart of Cajun country, Larson was surprised at how
easily she felt welcomed and at home in the musical diversity of Nashville with her
indie/Americana/ alt-country vibe.

Her transition to Music City strengthened her bond to her original home state of
Louisiana, prompting her to record her new solo record, The Sway, on her native turf
where her expertise in harmonica, guitar, and fiddle support her engaging vocals
and motivational lyrics.

"Songwriting for me is really personal...I kind of fall into it…It's never been an issue
for me to not finish a song," Larson explains, mentioning how she is driven to
improve herself , her music, and how she connects with her listeners.

Even though writing is very personal to Larson, she is not adverse to sharing her
innermost thoughts and feelings with her audience, many of whom appreciate the
intimacy, positive, and understanding that echo throughout her songs.

Larson is excited that her music has already found a home in film, two of her tracks
being featured in Daniel Zirilli's adaptation of Black Beauty.

Although Larson enjoys recording in the studio she absolutely loves playing gigs,
remarking that "recording is a different kind of satisfaction, but live shows are
where it's at," and happily anticipates her performances here in town.

You can catch her live and local at The Basement on September 13 and then Mercy
Lounge on September 28.

Larson's music can be found on iTunes, CD Baby, Amazon, and her website,
fawnlarson.com.

Indie Ville TV #58 The Tremendous Wyle Band

Written by Curtis Gardner

                                                                       
How did the group come together? Did any of you know each other prior to joining the group?

A: We first met at a party in L.A. and started talking about music. The party around us had grown out of control, but we were so into our conversation that we didn’t immediately notice the police had arrived to break it up. We snuck out and later reconnected through mutual friends and began song writing together.

Q: How did The Wyle Band get their stage name?

A: So I (C.C.) had come up with this mantra "With Your Life's Energy". It was something I always said, sort of like a pep talk before any audition or show. Then I (James)
liked and adopted this idea and together we claimed it as our namesake and now our band name.

Q: What are the group’s musical influences? What artist(s) Do you draw the most influence from?

A: We are influenced by so much. James is really into the 60's rock and classic wild west film scores. His influences include Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Stax records. C.C. always found herself drawn to strong melodies with some soulful grit behind them, with artists like Creedence Clearwater Rival, Annie Lennox, Gwen Stephanie, Pink, Chris Cornell, and Adele.


Q: Do you remember your first gig? If so, what was that performance like?

A: Our first performance as The WYLE Band was at a house party in Los Angeles. We were so loud that we thought for sure the cops were gonna show up. We got lucky because the neighbors weren’t home.


Q: What's the process like of creating music in the studio?

A: Studio time for us often starts with either a lyrical or an instrumental idea that we share with the other. This is the foundation for the back n' forth of the creativity flow for a new song for us. Typically C.C. writes most of the lyrics and melodies and James writes the instrumental parts and arrangements. It really is a give and take as we both contribute to all aspects of our music and art together.


Q: What is the group current plans? Are you pushing any new music or have any new shows coming soon?

A: We’re currently recording our 3rd EP and recently we've been fortunate to be endorsed by Mojave Audio, which is a kick @ss company. We are using our new microphone from them for these songs.

Our next upcoming show is Oct.15th with RAW in Nashville, TN. They host really cool shows nationally which consist of local artists showcasing live music performance, a live fashion show, and art goods. It's a pretty large event with all sorts of media
outlets there. So it's a great show to go check out and see. Link to tickets: http://www.rawartists.org/nashville/merge
Q: How can we find The Wyle Band online?

A: To checkout our music, upcoming shows, and other info. you can go to our website http://www.thewyleband.com

Q: What advice would you give a band coming up?

A: To bands coming up our advice would be to find their own sound and to hone it. There will always be obstacles, but realize that nothing good comes easy so keep at it. You will have some accomplishment if you keep on going.


Q: Any final words or shout outs?

A: Thank you to the positive forces in our lives that help us to continue pursuing this dream and to Avrah who has shared with us so much wisdom.

Indie Ville TV #57 Let's Meet the Seavers

Written by Curtis Gardner                      



How did the group come together?
Did any of you know each other prior to joining the group?

We first met on match.com. We probably would never have met otherwise. I lived in East Nashville and Dorothy on the West side.

How did Meet the Seavers get their stage name?

Meet The Seavers was Dorothy’s idea. We were slated to play at the basement in Nashville. The owner asked what we were called. And Dorothy said Oh, I don’t know, just list it as meet the Seavers. We both liked the sound of it as it described us and wasn’t pretentious.

What is the group musical influences? What artist(s) Do you draw the most influence from?

We both have a wide range of music that we like, but Jazz gets put on the turntable most of the time.
The music of that era was so positive and creative. Artists back then put out an album because they
had something to say. Nowadays most of the music is disposable.
(Jace) I love Charles Mingus’ compositions but I’m also a big Tom Waits fan along with Sting and
Morphine. We both are still saddened but the death of Jeff Buckley. Lyrically, my influences are derived from reading too much as a child and young adult.
(Dorothy) For me: Doris Day, Aretha Franklin, The Lawrence Welk TV Show, Dakota Staton

Do you remember your first gig? If so, what's was that performance like?

Our first gig together was at a CD release show I did back in 2006. I always like to have fun and try
weird stuff onstage. One of the things I did back then was have a boxing themed show. I would have a fake boxing ring set up on stage. An announcer introduce me and I would come on stage with gloves on. For this show, I had Dorothy be “song Girl”. She held up signs between each song. “Song one, Song two” etc... She got most of the applause.

Our first gig when she actually sang was at an open mic in East Nashville. We sang If I Were a
Nightengale. I was surprised at what a force of nature she is on-stage!

What's the process like of creating music in the studio?

We never know how things are going to sound. We do 50% of our gigs with just upright Bass,
Theremin and vocals only. The other half of the time we use some great players to fill things out. Even then, we tend to be a bit odd. I can’t remember the last gig in which we had a Guitar. Our sound
always seems to be in flux depending on our mood. My favorite sound is with Drums, Bass and Sax.
The hardest part I have found with recording is having an engineer who understands a good Upright
Bass sound. Most people don’t know how to record it. Often they want to make it sound like an
electric. In general though we approach recording the same way we approach performance. We want to have fun and we want our fans to have fun.

What is the group current plans? Are you pushing any new music or have any new shows coming soon?

We are always filming something for the television show. That’s been a good vehicle for us. Nashville has so much music that it’s hard to be heard. The fact that we are so different makes it even harder. The television show sets us apart and gives viewers a glimpse into our crazy life.

Musically, lately I’ve been intrigued by middle eastern singers. I’d like to incorporate some microtonal singing into our music.

What advice would you give a band coming up?

(Jace) Always remember why you are doing music. If you think too much about how rich non-talented

people have bought their success into the industry you will go crazy. Those people have to live with
their falseness. Be an artist. Create. Be authentic. (Dorothy) Have a back-up plan.

How can we find Meet the Seavers online?
www.meettheseavers.com

The site contains videos, info on us and our Television show.

Any final words or shout outs?

Thanks to you and shows like Indieville TV for giving artists a platform to showcase their talent.

Indie Ville TV #56 Phenomenal male model Jordan Clark

Written by Curtis Gardner
                                                                               

What attracted you to modeling?
I wasn't attracted to modeling at all, kinda just fell in my lap.

 How long has this been a career path for you?
It has been exactly 1 year this month

If any,who were your influences?
Nick Bateman and Brock O'Hurn are my biggest inspirations.

Do you remember your first photo shoot and/or fashion show? If so, tell us about that moment.
I do.....it was awful. I had no idea what i was doing haha not much else to add to that. Practice makes perfect ;)

 Whats been your proudest/favorite moment thus far?
Booking my first paid gig. I was really just doing this for fun but now I am making money!

What's the easiest and hardest things about modeling?
Easiest has to be just taking pictures....I can do that. Hardest thing is always trying to better myself (physically and mentally)

Which do you prefer ripping the runway or being in magazine spreads?
Magazine Spreads

How would you describe your style?
Jordan Clark, I rock with whatever I got.

What role does music play in modeling? Do u have a favorite artist that you like to listen to when you are getting ready?
Music is always helpful when modeling but I listen to just about everyone. So it doesnt matter what comes on.

Outside of modeling,what are your other interests or hobbies? What other avenues are you wanting to explore?
Love fitness, videos games, food, and any kind of sports

What advice would you give to those that aspire to be models?
If you want it bad enough you can do it. Work as hard as you can everyday to be the best you can be.

How can people stay tuned to you and your work?
Instagram is my most used social media and it is @jordanwclark

Any last words or shout-outs to anyone?
Everyone that has supported me and pushed me through this journey.

Indie Ville TV #55 The Life of Black Diamond

Written by Curtis Gardner
                                                                                             

What were your early experiences with music? Do you come from a family that has background in music?

**As a kid, I remember music being all around me. At home, in school, at church and even on street corners. Although my family members are all musically gifted, none of them chose to take it to the dramatic level that I have.

What genres of music and artists influenced you the most?

**I grew up listening mostly to R&B as well as Gospel music, so I'd say those styles affected and severely impacted me positively. Also, I was a big Disco fan during my teenage years and Donna Summer was a major influence on me for sure. Eventually, at about 15, I finally entered the Neil Diamond camp.

What enticed you to become a musician?

**Knowing that music has such power and transcends all boundaries, uniting individuals as well as eclectic groups of people, was very appealing to me. Of course, being bathed in audience applause always feels warm and good too! So you could say all of the above lured me to the entertainment field.

Do you remember your first ever gig or show? What was that like? We're you nervous?

**My first gig happened in 1999, before I was officially the Black Diamond, in a little Charleston (WV) bar-b-que restaurant where nervously, I sang to backing tracks from a cassette tape on a boom box. I remember being stunned at the favorable response my performance was garnering. I believed the fans might have second thoughts at any moment and walk out, but that never happened. In fact, I received a standing ovation, which was amazing and immediately solidified my addiction to the stage.

How would you describe your music to a first time listener or a potential fan?

**To the Black Diamond newbie, I'd say the music is tried and proven, given that Neil Diamond has already perfected the formula. My invitation would be to come prepared for a deep, meaningful, moving, touching and fun-all rolled up in one package-experience, done my way.

What are your plans for the rest of the calendar year? Are there anymore releases or shows coming soon?

**Sept 7, 2015, marks fifteen years that the Black Diamond Experience has been around; hence, I plan to celebrate the milestone with several shows all over the country. One [that] I'm especially looking forward to is returning to Columbia, Missouri, where I graduated from Rock Bridge High School and [where I am] being inducted into the institution's Hall of Fame on September 25th as the first member of my particular class given the honor. That gig will be magical and surreal, I'm pretty sure.

How can the public find your music and online via websites and social media?

**It's funny that I entered the social media world kicking & screaming years ago because now the Black Diamond Experience internet presence is ubiquitous. Please find me, my singing, videos [and] images here: facebook.com/blackneildiamond; twitter.com/@blackdiamondsho; instagram.com/blackneildiamond; reverbnation.com/theblackneildiamondtribute. The website is:www.blackdiamondvocals.com.

Any final words?

**When the show was first "born," I hadn't any idea how or if it would find a place in this world. Yet, it's taken me to altitudes I never dreamed of. Places like Jimmy Kimmel Live, the National Examiner, in front of a symphony orchestra as well as to perform for nationally prominent political dignitaries. I've opened for or shared billing with veteran artists including the Pointer Sisters, Brad Paisley, Three Dog Night, The Village People and others. It's taken me to cool locations all over the US and my life was even captured by an author in a published book called Black Diamond: The Real Illusion, a fourteen chapter biography of my journey. Even with the ups & downs of this business we call "Show," it, in a word, has been a truly wild, wonderful ride this far and I hope it continues being just that for both the fans and me!

Indie Ville TV #54 Vampire Bleach Bomb- We’re just a bunch of local boys that like to play Rock N’ Roll

Written by K.L. Graham                                              

Vampire Bleach Bomb growls their way over stages across the Nashville rock scene.  With tunes like “Wound Up Two Fisted” and “Punch Drunk” there is an obvious theme of the rock n’ roll lifestyle, and the grit and grunge that lies beneath a sick rock vocal. 

At heart though, Vampire Bleach Bomb is comprised of “a bunch of local boys that like to play Rock N’ Roll.” And whatever hard rock image they convey, the sweeter, familial ties to the Nashville scene are evident.

Drew and Randy Patterson, the band’s stalwart founders are brothers, who grew up right here in 

Nashville.

Front man Drew says “I grew up in Nashville my whole life. I don’t live in Davidson County anymore I live up in Mufreesboro. I grew up probably 35 years of my life in East Nashville, and it used to be everybody was running from it now everybody is running to it…I’m glad, I’m glad to see it go that way.”The rush to East Nashville, and the hunger for music coming out of Nashville that is not country based, serves these hard rockers well. 

“Yea man we’re just a local rock band. We’ve been around for a minute, we’ve gone through some 

changes. As far as the direction goes, it hasn’t changed.” 

And what isn’t changing is that these guys continue to gig and play all around town. With an upcoming show in St. Louis and yet another performance on September the 19th there are many opportunities to see Vampire Bleach Bomb for yourself. 

For more on their tour schedule and music you can find them at 

www.facebook.com/VampireBleachBomb and at ReverbNation.com/VampireBleachBomb

And keep your ears peeled for more great music from them in October! The band plans to be more 

recording this fall.