Hearts Don't Lie - Buffalo, NY

Hearts Dont Lie - Buffalo, NY

Hearts Don't Lie is a rock band from Buffalo focusing on original music.

Hearts Don’t Lie

Jennifer Kohler -  Lead Vocals

Tony Mirabelli - Guitars, Vocals

Drew Clark - Bass guitar, Vocals

Ray Barclay - Drums, Percussion

Anthony Mirabelli - Guitars, Vocals

Hearts Don't Lie debut CD is available now. 

Special Thanks to Fred Betschen, Richard Ells IV, GCR Studios & Underground Pound. Also, Mike Klodzinski & Mark J. Morette from Mark Records.

Hearts Don't Lie music review by Joe Tell.

The self titled Hearts Don't Lie CD begins with the song Dirty. A heavy rock guitar rhythm drops in stereo performed by Tony and Anthony Mirabelli, which is a nice touch and sounds really cool with headphones on. The band locks into a powerful groove. I can picture the song playing on a big stage with dry ice floating in and around all of the band members. The lyrics by Jennifer Kohler tell the tale of a love gone bad. A rather abrupt ending sets up the next song.

Bury Me kicks off with an upfront bass line performed by Drew Clark. The vocal effect adds some atmosphere to the track as it drifts in and out of the verse music. A unique guitar part comes in to start some great guitar soloing.

Next up is Focus. A dual octave guitar rises up into a heavy guitar riff. The heavy riff further breaks down into a sparse guitar figure which allows the vocals and bass to shine through. The guitar soloing on Focus is some of the best on this release. The music comes together for a tight ending.

Much like the other songs On The Inside has a distinct 80's hard rock sound. This song reminded me of the 80s band Dokken. The guitar solo stood out with it's melodic harmonies.

Not Foolin' Me features a classic metal galloping rhythm performed expertly by Ray Barclay. The guitar figure and solo reminded me of UFO, one of my favorite bands. Jennifer Kohler's vocal performance on Not Foolin' Me is one of the best on the CD. 

Someday is my favorite song on the CD. The tight rockin' groove sets up the best vocal performance by Jennifer Kohler on this release.

I Needed You is an uptempo hard rocker with a great dual guitar performance.

The Truth Always Hurts features Ray Barclay on drums as he kicks off the song in fine fashion. The band rock and rolls through this song with some quick stops in the same musical vein as the rest of the set. 

Pieces Of Change is one of the best songs of the set. The dual guitars follow each other creating a natural sounding delay. The melodic vocals of Jennifer Kay add another layer to the melodic sound and the energy of the song.  

Hearts Don't Lie is a great debut effort by a group of talented and experienced Buffalo musicians.

Check out the band Facebook, Spotify and

https://www.heartsdontlieband.com/

Special Thanks to Tony and Anthony Mirabelli and Jennifer Kay.

Haiku, Record Baron "Home of Dan the Record Man", George Puleo

HAIKU
Hugh Arthur
Spencer Bolden
George Puleo
Jim Wynne
First Wednesday Every Month @ The Sportsmen's Tavern, 326 Amherst St. Buffalo, NY
Thank You George! 

Here's a photo of George in action from The Sportsmen's Tavern.

Haiku's CD "Live @ Club Infinity" is available at Record Baron along with alot of other top notch local music. The CD features George Puleo on Guitar, Jim Wynne on Bass and Hugh Arthur on Drums. These guys pull out all the stops. Fantastic playing and much improvising from all 3 players dominates this CD. The CD is a Jazz Fusion lovers dream, Haiku starts off with some excellent originals and close out the CD out with some Hendrix covers. 

Also available at Record Baron is the accompanying DVD of the live performance of the "Live @ Club Infinity" CD.

George Puleo's Solo CD "so low" is also available at Record Baron.

George is a highly skilled and respected guitar player who was once a member of the legendary Buffalo based jazz fusion band, Gamalon.

Julian Frampton Band - Los Angeles, California

Julian Frampton Band is a Los Angeles based alternative rock band. Fronted by Julian Frampton, the band is still flying high from their recent arena/amphitheater opening tour. Now they're back home in LA and just released their new single Quicksand. With influences all across the board and not limited to any one genre, JFB has a unique sound all on its own; edgy yet melodic while priding itself in its live performance. Along with Julian on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, the band consists of bassist Ricky Bakken, drummer Guy Azoulay, lead guitarist Mike Lis, and keyboardist Ben Sheridan.
JFB is genre fluid. A little bit rock, a little bit pop, a little bit prog, a little bit of everything.

Their new single Quicksand is out everywhere now. It kinda feels like we are all stuck in quicksand these days....

https://songwhip.com/julian-frampton-band/quicksand

The Chris Squier Band - Buffalo, NY

The Chris Squier Band - Buffalo, NY

New Rock for the 80's Kids. Our Generation's Just Getting Started.
Refugees from the 80's rock heydays, The Chris Squier Band brings a sound that can fill arenas and your favorite coffee mug at the same time. Band members have shared stages with acts such as Jakob Dylan (The Wallflowers), Mike Peters (The Alarm), Brett Michaels (Poison) and many more, and have been nominated for multiple local and regional music awards.
The CSB are lifetime devotees to The Church of Rock n' Roll, and preach the good word to the masses from their divine temples of Marshall stacks.

The CSB is:
Steve Bell - Drums and backing vocals
Nathan Gavacs - keyboards, guitars and backing vocals
Ian Hanavan - Bass
Larry Smith - Guitars and backing vocals
Chris Squier - guitars and lead vocals

Rock music like your favorite pair of jeans...beat up, torn and perfectly lived in.
Don't believe them? Get some free music for yourself from https://www.chrissquier.com/band and be saved.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3XezclxYkhPSNb36eBcWuS?fbclid=IwAR0MqT3EBiVJ4maJlPPVn4PUEFkPz9gW4h71qoP3UCwuPPhl7vH92a7-o68

New review of the latest singles from the Chris Squier band by Joe Tell.
Best Days by the Chris Squier band starts off with a well-played acoustic guitar intro and kicks into an uptempo groove with a sound that could be described as the all the best sounds of the 80's. A tight, clean mix of rockin' guitars, keyboards and uplifting vocals. Lead guitar solos are sparse but executed with precision and quality. The bass guitar chords sound great as the song comes to a close.
The Wilderness Of Our Hearts is a heartfelt ballad. The sound is polished and well produced. The song is centered around the vocals and the multiple keyboard tracks, once again the sound is reminiscent of the 80's. 

WNYMusic - Buffalo, NY

When I was in high school, http://wnymusic.com/  was the only way a geeky 16 year-old kid from the suburbs could find out about the Buffalo music scene. I made friends, discovered bands and even got some shows out of it.
A brief history lesson: The website was created in 1996, peaked in 2005 and has been (mostly) a graveyard since 2012.
Well, it's coming back, in a big way!
We are now a volunteer run website, for musicians and fans by musicians and fans. We're bringing back The List of local bands (which will feature over 500 bands!), we'll have the event calendar back up and, for the first time, http://wnymusic.com/  will have a blog!
If you're interested in helping out, please send us a message. We need programmers, writers, photographers, designers, social media people and anything else you can think of, If not, stayed tuned. 
I was given this website for free with the stipulation that I do it justice. I plan to do just that. Come, join us!
- Ryan Gurnett

“Without music to decorate it, time is just a bunch of boring production deadlines or dates by which bills must be paid.”
― Frank Zappa
WNYMusic.com exists to support the Buffalo Music Scene. We are a volunteer run website, made by the music scene for the music scene. We are here to help support and promote growth amongst our communities young artists.
Things are tough for musicians. Between the money spent, the meager wages and getting pushed around by promoters and venue owners, it's can be very easy to get discouraged. We want to help promote change with a positive space where we can all help each other.
Another function of WNYMusic.com is to provide volunteer and internship opportunties to music/journalism/whatever students looking to gather experience before they enter the workforce after college.

If you're interested in being a part of the community, follow along. If you're interested in helping, shoot us a line.

Website
http://wnymusic.com/

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/WNYMusicDotCom/

Ansley Court - Buffalo, NY

Thank You Mike! Now I have Bakers Dozen to listen to...
Scroll down to read more...

Ansley Court was a cool, rockin' alternative band from Buffalo that was gigging and recording in the 90's. I had the pleasure of seeing them play live a couple of times and also had the pleasure of working w/Joe (JOFO 70) while he recorded his solo album in the old Sidway building. Last I heard Joe moved to NYC. Ansley Court was an extremely talented bunch of original songwriters, their sound could be called alternative rock but it is a unique, eclectic blend of many genres. The overall sound of "jade heart bleeder" is very cool. Lots of interesting sounds going on to entertain the ears. I think A.S. was way ahead of the curve and not your average, ordinary band by any means.

After all this time I still enjoy listening to "jade heart bleeder".

Forest Hills - New York, New York

Forest Hills is a rock band from New York City.
Forest Hills is comprised of two members: Zero Surico and Jack Burton.
Zero and Jack met and formed Forest Hills in Los Angeles, California. 
Zero Surico is the frontman of Forest Hills. The band's name is derived from Forest Hills, New York City, which is where Zero is from. With a heavy background in alt-rock, metal, and grunge music, Zero began writing songs at age 12, and self-taught himself guitar, bass, piano, ukulele, and drums. He is transgender and a proactive LGBTQ+ advocate.
Jack Burton is the drummer of Forest Hills. With childhood musical training in classical piano, Jack eventually transitioned into jazz-drumming. With a background in worship drumming and punk-rock bands, Jack developed his unique style as a drummer, which is easy to identify in all Forest Hills songs.
Together, the duo promotes mental health awareness and supports a variety of foundations such as the Breast Cancer Foundation, Alzheimer's Research, and all of their shows are Epilepsy Friendly. 
Forest Hills donates 50% of all merch sales to charity! 
Forest Hills have stayed active throughout the quarantine by doing Livestream Concerts and releasing new music. The next Forest Hills LiveStream Concert is on July 1st at 12am EST.

Website
http://foresthills.band/

Apple Music
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/forest-hills/1462346278

Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/foresthillsofficialband

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/artist/31qe2HNp03frVQklmGNXjw?si=Az9rZ4McSQu9qg4mixl9LA

Google Play Music
https://play.google.com/music/listen#/wst/artist/Asjmxphxtqrp6tshxdwmq6sa3ru

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/ForestHillsOfficialBand/

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/foresthills_band/

Manelik - Geneva, Switzerland

Manelik is an alternative rock collective founded in Geneva, Switzerland in 2019 by bassist, multi instrumentalist, producer and songwriter Manelik Sfez.

Like Lenny Kravitz or Prince, Manelik writes and records most of his music alone in his studio, playing all instruments, and then puts together a tribe (as he calls it) of ace musicians and guest stars for the vocals, additional guitars and pianos, and live performances.
The performing band’s DNA is a collective in the sense that it uses this open, variable lineup of experienced players to serve the music. They all share a passion for making great cuts and, truth be told, they deliver on the promise. Haunting melodies, a huge sound and superbly crafted harmonies create a sophisticated yet accessible rock that your playlist will thank you for. Manelik’s style often leans towards stadium rock with powerful drums, pounding bass, beautiful guitar solos and infectious choruses. It takes the audience on a journey through different elements of pop, rock, funk, hard rock, folk, and ballads, enhanced with experimental sounds that make them stand out from more classic acts. The songwriting also pays great attention to the lyrics with inspiring and uplifting messages for the daily life.
Manelik released their first single Let The Rain in November 2019, and a first 5-track EP in April 2020 (6 tracks on the BandCamp version, Let The Rain being included as a free bonus). Manelik is already working on the next full-length opus, which will feature 14 tracks and be available in early 2021. 

Manelik - F.L.Y. art and Youtube video

Manelik - Insomnia featuring Ivy Marie art and video

Ivy Marie

Manelik - Let The Rain art and video

Website
https://www.manelik.com/

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/manelikmusic

Twitter
https://twitter.com/manelikmusic/

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/manelik_music

Soundcloud
https://www.soundcloud.com/manelikmusic

Reverbnation
https://www.reverbnation.com/manelik

Bandcamp
https://manelik.bandcamp.com

Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgORvhnx7oYr_DRQuY0dzXQ

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7wjZxZyg9CwpGkM5xDe12m?si=e3FnrKCcQsekPZxoRzl2Iw

Apple
https://music.apple.com/ch/artist/manelik/1508205332?l=fr

Rosewater - Madison, WI

Rosewater's newest release is called So Long SoCal.
Check it out on their bandcamp, scroll down for link.

Rosewater is Blair Clark's new pop punk band out of Madison, WI.
Rosewater is a three piece garage band from Madison WI. Male and Female fronted band of two guitars and a drummer. Both guitarists sing. We have been together for 3 years. The music is frantic and fun, sweet punk, sour pop. We put on a killer show, no yapping just rock and roll. 
Thanks for listening - Blair 

https://soundcloud.com/blair-clark-804478008/bad-city-by-rosewater
https://www.facebook.com/rosewaterlbc/
https://rosewaterlbc.bandcamp.com/

So Long SoCal album art

Blair Clark - guitar, vocals
Leah Brooke - guitar, vocals
John Driscoll - Drums

Recorded live in the basement of John's house.

All rights reserved

Review of Rosewater's So Long SoCal by Joe Tell.
Rosewater's latest release is called So Long SoCal.
The first song is 405. It has a straight ahead, no frills punk rock sound. Punk rock minimalism at it's finest. The combination of Blair Clark and Leah Brooke on vocals gives the music a hip sound, reminiscent of the Velvet Underground and early B-52's. The band sounds like something straight out of CBGB's from the late 70's or early 80's.
Family sounds like a (sped-up) conservation between a loving couple set to punk rock music. The fast pace and guitar heavy mix makes the lyrics hard to make out. This quality will have you listening to the song over and over in an attempt to make out exactly what the words are...at least that's what happened to me but after a few attempts I finally made out the lyrics. 
California Girl has a totally authentic garage rock sound and feel. The single coil guitar sound sounds cool along with the cymbal crashes and intermittent stops and starts.
ER is a song about a place most of us don't want to be in lately. Despite of the subject matter the song still rocks. 
Lookout! closes out So Long SoCal and rocks out in a similar style following suit with the rest of the songs on the release. It's another short but sweet song played with a strong sense of punk rock urgency.

Love Bomb album art 

Bad City album 

Stereo Pharoah - Ridgway, Pennsylvania

Stereo Pharoah - Ridgway, Pennsylvania

Aggressive Back to Basics Rock & Roll
-Cody Legacy Laughner (Vocals/Guitar)
-Michael Padasak (Drums)
-Elle Laughner (Bass/Artwork)

Recorded at Graphite Sound Studio (Warren, PA) by Anthony Brown
Produced by Cody Legacy Laughner
Artwork by Elle Laughner

Stereo Pharoah Catastrophile music review by Joe Tell.

Kitty Riptide is the opening track and the quick song sets a fast pace and an aggressive feel. The adrenaline filled solo ramps up the energy even more. This track is sure to get your blood pumping, leave you wanting more and waiting for the next song to kick in.
Can you please repeat that?...what did you say?...Tinnitus is up next. Tinnitus is a fast paced punk song. The first time I heard this song I couldn't understand the lyrics, maybe due to my tinnitus?...Tinnitus is something I am familiar with but the lyrics are split between the hearing impairment and something that makes you feel all right. First thing in the morning, rolling all day and night, hmm?... It really sounds like 2 singers on this song even though I don't think there are 2. This is a unique and cool touch which differentiates each part musically and lyrically. The lyrics may be tongue in cheek but the song packs an energetic rock punch.
Ultragotha is a mid-tempo alternative rock track. The drum performance on this track is excellent. Ultragotha sounds like a unique pairing of Soundgarden and Silverchair. The sound is further enhanced by some really cool wah-wah guitar flurries.
Right Now has the sound and structure of a great 90's alternative rock song. The band starts fairly quiet and mellow but then ramps up the energy playing faster and harder. The band conveys a strong sense of urgency and a feeling of angst in Right Now. 
Spoon and Key has a cool stereo guitar intro. The band then busts out into an intoxicating, fast groove. The lyrical content has a couple of narcotic references and in between the verses the band sounds melodic, creating a different sound and feeling from the verse.
Hangman is one of my favorite tracks on Catastrophile. The band shows off a slower, heavier side. The verse music is crunchy with its muffled guitar. The band then transitions from a melodic passage to a riff heavy groove which sounds like a combo of Black Sabbath and Soundgarden, two of my favorite bands. I would have loved to hear a guitar solo but the song doesn't suffer from the lack of solo.
Running Away kicks off with a killer drum intro. Running Away is a straight ahead hard rock track. The vocal timbre and lyrical content reminded me of Kurt Cobain.
Morphine is sure to get ya movin' and groovin' along with the bristling tempo. The music is strong and hard-driving and further accentuated by a steady helping of cymbal crashes. 
Marketbasket is a catchy and melodic track and one of my favorite songs on Catastrophile. The guitar progression sounds like it was played with a slide giving it a blues rock feel. The vocal performance is one of the best on the release and it may have you singing along by the end of the song.
California Rain sounds like one of the most musically adventurous tracks on Catastrophile. The guitar and drum performances are some of the best on the album. After reading the title of the song I was expecting a mellow song but California Rain is definitely one of the best songs on the release.
Old School Obese Horse is pounding and powerful, I really like the slide guitar touches. The emotional vocals sound mysterious and seem to describe a secret plot. 
Dozer is literally a musical bitch slap, a sonic attack on the senses. Stereo Pharoah definitely saved one of the best for last. The mid-tempo pace should induce some movement of the physical body. The drum performance is the best on Catastrophile, especially on the bridge section of the song.

Any fan of the 90's alternative rock sensibility will love Stereo Pharoah's Catastrophile.

To hear Steroe Pharoah goto...
https://stereopharaoh2020.bandcamp.com/releases

Jennifer Westwood and the Handsome Devils - Detroit, Michigan

Jennifer Westwood and the Handsome Devils

Upcoming performance dates

Interview with Jennifer Westwood by Joe Tell.
1) What's your favorite song? It would be impossible to pick one song of so many. But probably the song that really strikes a chord with me personally is "Try a Little Tenderness" as recorded by Otis Redding. There's so much I love about it and if my life were a movie it would fit prominently on the soundtrack. The lyrical content and the way its delivered is perfection. At the start its like someone sitting a young man down and having a heart to heart, and by the end, especially in some live versions, he's full on preaching.

2) What artist(s) inspired you to become a songwriter? Songwriting is never anything I thought about or thought I could do. I think just being in church and around different styles of music and the way it moved people made me want to try but it was more of an activity like sitting down and coloring than a conscious effort to write a song for people to hear.  When I was in my first band I really didn't like the lyrics that were presented to me. They were far too vague and held no meaning to me. I felt if I was going to sing something, it should matter. That's when I became conscious about lyrics and cadences and how emotion fits in.

3) What song have you written is your favorite and why? This time of year my favorite song I've written is "Round and Round." Sometimes a song is mingling of truth mixed with fiction, my story mixed with someone else's stories. But that song is 100% about me, how I relate with my hometown personified, how I love it, and my complicated relationship with it. Winter in Detroit is hard on me.

4) Why do you write songs? I write songs to express myself but also for the challenge. I don't feel like its something I'm qualified to do but I don't feel like I should care. So writing a song is like firing anyone that has criticism for me or would tell me what I can and can't do, what my place is in this world - sometimes that means I have to fire my critical inner voice.

5) Can you remember the first time you wrote a song? The first time I wrote a song, I am pretty sure it was a rap. And I'm pretty sure it was Jesus rap.

6) Who gave you support to keep writing in the beginning? Who gave me support in the beginning to keep writing? No one. I do have supportive parents. My dad wanted me to go to music school and I didn't. I was afraid of the debt and I really regret that. But as far as writing goes, I think its safe to say I surrounded myself with the wrong people. I had low self-esteem and maybe the people in my life were the people I thought I deserved. When I did go to school for music for a while, it was re-iterated to me that it was a waste of time and money. I don't remember anyone ever telling me, "that's a great song" or "you should keep working on that".  I know one local songwriter made mention of one of my lyrics kind of early on and it made me feel great. But if I were waiting on approval I don't think I'd be writing now.

7) What do you feel like when you sing one of your songs and people applaud? I won't lie. Having people applaud to a song your wrote is an amazing feeling. Especially if the lyrics are sincere and personal. Its a great risk to wear your heart on your sleeve whether people know they are your thoughts or not. It does make me feel validated and I feel a connection to people, like I've found my tribe.

8) Are you more of a singer or songwriter? I'm more of a singer. I feel like its more comfortable to interpret someone else's words and get creative with approach. It goes back to the "wearing your heart on your sleeve". I'm still often inhibited and there's less risk involved in telling a story written by someone else and it also feels less selfish. You get to express and work out all these feelings in front of the world that wouldn't be appropriate during the course of normal day. So to top it off and say, "here's my version of love, life, work, play"... Sometimes I get hung up on that or that inner critical voice jumps in. And going back to those moments when people applaud or tell me how much they love a song for xyz, it really goes a long way in reminding me that this is a way that we all relate to life's ups and downs together. I definitely want to be a better songwriter. Its something you practice like anything else.

9) What inspires you to write? People I love, people I can't stand, horrible circumstances, situations I wish I could change for people, the absurdity of the world, things people say about me or tell me.... all inspire me to write. Sometimes just normal conversations I overhear make me want to go home and write. Ordinary talk can be so poetic.  In the past I've had hang ups drawing off my own personal anger or heartache where another person was involved. . I felt like it was not a thing a nice girl would do, to air your dirty laundry, or worried people would think I'm hanging on to things I'm over. I think I'm ready to break that trend and I do regret not expressing myself more fully.

10) What's next for you and the band? Dylan and I are wrapping up the year here in Detroit. This is our longest stretch home in 4 years - 3 months straight! We've had a lot of ups and downs but find ourselves in a situation where we are able to catch our breath. Normally I'd be getting ready to escape the Detroit tundra with some gulf states touring but we need to stay put for a minute to get ahead. We are focused on getting in the studio to record a few new songs and tending to personal business in preparation for 2020. In late January we will be headed to northern Arizona where we have been offered a beautiful spot to work on writing and pre production by some generous people that know how hard we work. We will be collaborating. The time is right for us to shift gears. We will be performing in New York, Kentucky, then make our way west via Nashville, Memphis, Austin and hit some places in NM, AZ and CA as well.  In the meantime, we are doing lots of local events in Southeast Michigan. Musically, I have an idea for 4 EP's I want to do as a series if I have my way. 

Dylan Dunbar and Jennifer Westwood

Full band shot from the Lexington Village Theatre in Michigan. 

Jennifer Westwood and the Handsome Devils are a self described "music genre bending band based in Detroit, Michigan that combines blues guitar licks, soulful vocals and rustbelt sensibilities," their latest EP, Marfa Lights proves that statement in spades. 

Music review of Marfa Lights by Joe Tell.
The title track, Marfa Lights, is a sweet and soulful track. The Handsome Devils lay down a slow and sensual groove for Jennifer to sing along with. Jennifer's vocals are a unique and soothing blend of the sultry soul of Aretha Franklin and the primal passion of Janis Joplin. Dylan Dunbar's rhythm guitar is classic Motown at its best and his solo adds a touch of funky blues to the sound.
Next up is Sinner Part Time, a song about drinkin' and hard livin' proving that the versatile band has a real knack for rock-n-roll. Sinner Part Time offers a staccato beat punctuated by a distorted guitar and soulful slide guitar melody. Jennifer's vocals rise high over the hard driving beat. A cool bass lick takes the song out. 
Covering the timeless country song Jolene seems to be a rite of passage for any country music band that wants to be taken seriously. Jennifer Westwood and the Handsome Devils cover the song beautifully. Jennifer's passionate vocals soar above the dramatic music. Their cover of Jolene is one the best covers I have heard of this classic tune.
Living On A Fringe has a country rock sound and sensibility that would fit in perfectly on any country music radio station playlist. The lyrics describe the dreary in's and out's and demanding daily grind of a blue collar lifestyle. Dylan Dunbar's slide guitar adds a stylish sense of melody to the sound. 
Nothing A Bourbon Can't Fix is an uptempo rocker and one the best on the Marfa Lights EP. The guitar drives the song into a frenzy and Jennifer shows off her rock vocal chops. Needless to say the song is about throwing back a couple of pops with some close friends in trying to erase some bad memories.
Marfa Lights is a fantastic first effort by the band. They flawlessly blend Americana, Blues, Country and Rock styles in a way all their own. 
Highly recommended, see the band on tour in a town near you!

Website
https://www.jwhandsomedevils.com/

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/jwhandsomedevils

Twitter
https://twitter.com/JenniWestwood

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/jwhandsomedevils/

Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/user/JWHandsomeDevils

iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/jennifer-westwood-handsome/id988143580

Special thanks Jennifer Westwood.

Under Arrest - Buffalo, NY

Under Arrest - Buffalo, NY

Voted "Best New Group." Night Life Music Awards 2016. 
Best Drummer 2018, Nominated For "Best Rock Band" 2017, 2018 Night Life Music Awards!

Under Arrest is a rockin' cover band that plays classic rock songs and country music from the 60's to the present day.
Check out their website for show dates, videos, photos and contact info http://www.underarrestband5.com
Band members include Debbie Schulmeister - Keyboards and Lead Vocals and Will Schulmeister - Drums and Vocals.

"Under Arrest" Current Song List:
Ex's & Oh's- Elle King
Don't Stop- Fleetwood Mac
Somebody To Love- Jefferson Airplane
Hit Me With Your Best Shot- Pat Benatar
No Matter What- Badfinger
That'll Be The Day- Linda Ronstadt
Drive to Survive- Jimmy Thackery
Harden My Heart- Quarter Flash
Keep On Loving You- R.E.O.
You're So Vain- Carly Simon
All Over Now- Rolling Stones
Little White Church- Little Big Town
Temptation Eyes- Grassroots
Red- Taylor Swift
Summer of '69- Brian Adams
Poor, Poor, Pitiful Me- Terry Clark
Change in My Pocket- Georgia Satellites
Before He Cheats- Carrie Underwood
Half Breed- Cher
It's So Easy- Linda Ronstadt
Go Your Own Way- Fleetwood Mac
Stop Draggin My Heart Around- Petty/Nicks
Take it On the Run- R.E.O.
I Will Survive- Gloria Gaynor
Cool Guitars- Jimmy Thackery
Done- Band Perry
Bad Case of Loving You- Robert Palmer
Because The Night- Natalie Merchant
When Will I Be Loved- Linda Ronstandt
Let'er Rip- Dixie Chicks
Alone- Heart
Jolene- Dolly Parton
Heartbreaker- Pat Benatar
Raise Your Glass- Pink

General Manager - Will Schulmeister
Email contact - willschulmeister@roadrunner.com
Website - http://www.underarrestband5.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Under-Arrest-104262226332911/?fref=tsfacebook.com

Russ Vesci and Texas Revolver - Buffalo, NY

Russ Vesci: Comin' Home music review by Joe Tell.
Russ also performs as Russ Vesci and Texas Revolver, a band that pays tribute to the legendary guitarist, Stevie Ray Vaughan. 
https://www.facebook.com/Russ-Vesci-and-Texas-Revolver-SRV-Tribute-1007593389381525/

Russ Vesci: Comin' Home music review. 

Comin' Home highlights the diverse talents of Buffalo musician Russ Vesci (whom initials are one letter away from SRV). Russ provides the vocals and all the instrumentation, along with all production and songwriting credits. A very impressive feat to say the least. Comin' Home starts off with a jumpin', uptempo blues song called Take Me Home. Russ' guitar style revolves around a pure blues stratocaster sound, reminiscent of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Russ proves that he has all the bases covered when it comes to blues guitar rhythms and solo guitar playing. Take Me Home starts off with a killer blues guitar solo as he introduces himself in the lyrics as the Boogie Woogie Man. The production is very polished and the sound is top-notch. The guitar solo includes some Joe Satriani-like quicksilver slides that punctuate all the fast blues licks. Russ' vocal style is along the same lines as Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Take Me Home kicks off the Comin' Home CD with class and style.
(Pro wrestler Jimmy Valiant came to mind when I heard the cool Boogie Woogie man line. I also remembered the blues metal song UFO wrote with the Built for comfort, Not meant for speed lyric line.)
Too Hot sounds to me like an uptempo reinterpretation of Cold Shot. The guitar rhythm is solid and steady and the keyboards compliment the strong rhythm. The guitar solo is lightning quick with its tasty tremolo bar (or whammy bar) wiggles.
I Hear The Devil Call My Name highlights Russ' slow blues guitar style, expertly bending notes throughout this song. A song about the devil is a common theme in blues music and Russ totally nails his own version on the evil subject. Russ shows off his mastery of all the coolest blues licks, licks that Albert and Freddie King made famous. Russ sings a line and follows it up with a guitar fill, executing the call and response blues song structure to perfection. 
Give As Good As You Get picks the energy back up with an uptempo rockin' blues number. The catchy chorus became stuck in my head as I listened to this song to come up with something to write about. This is one of my favorite songs on Comin' Home.
I'm Comin' Home highlights Russ' mastery of all things Stevie Ray Vaughan, many of the guitar licks and the rhythm of this song reminded me of Pride and Joy. Russ even mentions Austin, Texas in the lyrics, the state where Stevie Ray Vaughan was from.
Next up is an uptempo number called Blues Makes Everything Alright. Russ tells a story about a one-sided love that's OK as long as he can grab his guitar and play. The guitar playing on this song is one of the best on his release, full of fire and soul. Russ starts off with a sound that is fairly clean but at about a minute into the song Russ literally kicks the solo into overdrive. After ripping on some speedy blues licks Russ throws a couple of Hendrix solo trademarks in for good measure. This song is one of the best on Comin' Home.
Kisses In The Rain is a ballad which allows Russ' musical ability as a singer and a guitarist shine through. Russ' guitar playing is slow and very melodic, showing his versatility as an accomplished guitar player. Full of heartfelt soul and emotion his vocals on this song are some of the best on Comin' Home.
Dusty Boots Blues closes out Comin' Home. This track opens up with the sounds of pouring rain and continues on with the classic blues slide guitar. After listening to 7 songs with electric guitar this short but sweet instrumental track sounds cool with the acoustic guitar. Once again Russ nails it playing the blues slide guitar exceptionally well. If you are a fan of rocking blues with killer guitar solos then I would highly recommend Comin' Home by Russ Vesci.

Pimpslap The Atmosphere - Lakeland FL

Bill and I have been friends since '84 or so, I saw Pimpslap when they came to Buffalo in the 90's.
Thank You, Bill aka Angst.

Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold - Other Side Of The Story EP review

Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold
https://soundcloud.com/rosecoraperry/

Exclusive interview with Rose Cora Perry by Joe Tell.
1. What first got you into music?
My parents enrolled me in classical voice lessons at a very young age so I must have demonstrated some sort of interest or ability in music right from the get-go. Being that I was only four at the time, I don't remember how it happened exactly but I DO remember loving being on stage - even early on - and how that love continued to grow the more I performed.

2. Who inspired you to make music?
The very first song I ever wrote was actually about my concerns on the effects of pollution and oil spills on the environment - pretty heavy subject matter for a seven year old. I guess you could say even before I acknowledged the power of music and how it's truly a universal language, I knew on some level it was a form of media through which you could reach others and discuss important issues. Where my inspiration comes from is still a mystery to me - I just "hear" melodies in my head and then set them to words.

3. How would you describe the music that you typically create?
I was recently asked that when setting up the distribution for my band's new EP "Other Side of the Story" and the only option that seemed to make sense was "brooding". Lol. In other words, I think people would consider me a "serious" songwriter in that my music is inspired by very real events and very real emotions that I feel. I aim to write very authentically - without any preconceived notions of how a song "should" sound or flow. The same goes for my lyrics - I write what and how I feel from my heart. If I had to choose a genre, I suppose I'd say "alternative" because while my music is based in the rock genre, it embraces a wide range of influences from classical to jazz to metal and grunge.

4. What is your creative process like?
Unpredictable and "odd". I'll have dry spells for some time wherein I won't write anything for months. Then, all of a sudden I write a number of songs in a row in one sitting. My emotions largely drive my songwriting too so I have to be in a particular state of mind to write and again, as already mentioned, melodies just kinda come into my head without warning.

5. Who would you most like to collaborate with?
Ooooh that's such a tough question as there are so many incredible artists out there (past and present) that I'd be so very honoured to work with! I think vocally I'd love to be able to harmonize with my fellow Canadian talents Ian Thornley, Alanis and Loreena McKennitt. I would die and go to heaven if Richie Sambora wanted to play lead guitar on one of my songs.

6. If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
Joan Jett or Pat Benatar or a double bill with both!

7. What is one message you would give to your fans?
Follow your dreams and what's in your heart. You may not always find success, but it's a lot worst always wondering "what if" than never trying at all.

8. Do you sing in the shower? What songs? 
Yes and usually my vocal warmups.

9. Which famous musicians do you admire?
My fav band of all time is Veruca Salt. I adore the songwriting and vocal chemistry of Nina and Louise - it's nothing short of magical. I respect the heck out of Madonna for all that she's accomplished throughout her incredible career and how much she's opened doors for women in music. I think Paul McCartney has gotta be the coolest most down-to-earth rockstar in existence and Steven Tyler is my fav rock'n'roll frontman.

10. What’s next for you and the band?
I guess you'll just have to wait and see! Follow us on social media to keep in the loop:
www.facebook.com/rosecoraperryofficial
www.twitter.com/rosecoraperry
www.instagram.com/rosecoraperry 


Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold - Other Side Of The Story EP music review by Joe Tell.

The Other Side Of The Story is a great introduction to Rose's dynamic music and heartfelt singing. Don't let her good looks fool you, her fiery singing and raw guitar playing add plenty of passion and power to the heavy rhythms. The first thing you hear when you play the Other Side Of The Story is Rose's strong and striking mezzo soprano vocals alongside a muffled, distorted guitar. The intro on For What It's Worth conveys a feeling of anticipation and a tense buildup waiting for what's coming up next. The full band kicks in bringing a hard and edgy alternative rock sound to the song. The sound is big and powerful with its chugging guitars and multi-layered vocals.
Next up is Easy Prey, Check out the Youtube video for the song below...

A slamming drum beat by Tyler Randall starts off the track before the band joins in. Cora sings an soaring operatic aria over a hard-hitting rhythm track.
Don't is the most musically adventurous song on Other Side Of The Story. Rose delivers a strong vocal over an emotional and reflective rhythm track. The track takes a twist with a staccato driven passage. A familiar sounding guitar part starts to strum and Rose confirms that the music is Nothing Else Matters from Metallica which fits in perfectly with the tempo and feel of Don't. 
A cover of Rolling In The Deep by Adelle is up next. Rose proves that she has the talented vocal chops to pull this song off with as much passion as the original version.
Check out the video on Youtube below.

Darkest Days has a melancholy feel. Rose's somber sounding lyrics float perfectly over the top of the heaviest track of Other Side Of The Story. The track breaks down featuring Rose's stirring vocals and her guitar carrying the song into its conclusion.
To hear Other Side Of The Story online goto https://soundcloud.com/rosecoraperry/

 Music & Lyrics by Rose Cora Perry except for Rolling In The Deep.
 Vocals & Rhythm Guitars by Rose Cora Perry.
 Lead Guitars by Rose Cora Perry & Tyler Randall.
 Drums by Tyler Randall.
 Bass parts written by Rose Cora Perry & Ariel Kasler, additional arrangement by Tyler   Randall and Justin Dow.
 Bass Performed by Amber Gorham.
 Recording & Editing by Justin Dow, SLR Studios.
 Additional Vocal & Guitar Tracking for Rolling In The Deep by Jamie Dean, The Sugar 
 Shack. 
 Mixed and Produced by Kevin O'Leary
 Mastered by Roger Lian
 Photography by Mystery Man
 Hair, Makeup, Styling & Photo Editing by Rose Cora Perry
 CD art by HER Media Inc.

From Warped Tour to Music is Art 
“Rock’s Not Dead”…At Least Not for This Canadian Band

Being handpicked by the founder himself to rock the final Vans Warped Tour.
Being selected as the only Canadian act to showcase at Summer Namm.
Getting the crowd revved up at the legendary Whisky a Go Go for Ultimate Jam Night.
Opening for Smashmouth at Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Regatta.

These are just a handful of standout moments Canadian rock band, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold, have already accomplished since forming in 2016.

Said to capture the vocal essence of Benatar paired with the punk rock sensibility of Jett, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold are set to release their highly anticipated debut EP this year entitled, “Other Side of the Story”.

In conjunction with their forthcoming disc, Perry and crew will be embarking on “Part Deux” of their “Canadian Invasion” tour, which last year saw them play close to 50 shows in 10 states, along with select performances within their locale of Southwestern Ontario.

On Saturday September 7th, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold will be making a pitstop in Buffalo for this year’s 17th annual Music is Art Festival.

Each September, The Music is Art Festival attracts tens of thousands from WNY and the world for its one-day, all-day, admission-free summer farewell celebration. The annual homegrown festival showcases over 700 musicians, dozens of DJs, hundreds of dancers, and over 75 display and live artist installations. 

Family-friendly attractions include non-profit booths, an ever popular interactive kid’s village, an instrument zoo, and plenty of food and drink. 

The event runs from 11:00 am until 2:00 pm at RiverWorks (359 Ganson St, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA) and RiverFest Park (249 Ohio St, Buffalo, NY 14204, USA)

Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold will be rocking the Ganson & Michigan Outdoor stage located at RiverWorks at 1:15 pm.

Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold, will be making their Buffalo debut on Thursday September 6th at Nietzsche's. 

Award-Winning Canadian Act Makes Buffalo Debut

Hot off of Vans Warped Tour, award-winning Canadian rock trio Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold, are slated to make their Buffalo debut on Thursday September 6th at renowned local venue, Nietzsche's.

In support of Perry's latest album, "Onto the Floor", the band's Buffalo stop is just one of many US dates in their latest "Canadian Invasion" tour which has included boastworthy appearances at: The Whisky a Go Go (Los Angeles), International Pop Overthrow (Chicago), Jersey Shore Festival (New Jersey), East Coast Music Conference (Virginia), Twin City Ribfest (North Carolina), Taste of Wisconsin (Kenosha) and Yellow Streets Spring Fair (Ohio).

Formed in 2016, within six months of coming together, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold conquered audiences of 25,000+ , performing at notable festivals and winning over crowds of 20-somethings & babyboomers alike.

Acclaimed one of the Top #10 talents across Canada, last year the group was selected as the only Canadian act to showcase at Summer NAMM (Nashville). A month following their "Music City" success, Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold took the stage as the opening act for 90's hitmakers SmashMouth at Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Regatta; an event which attracts on average, 1.5 million attendees. 

Other accolades the group has racked up include being: awarded Best "Pop Rock" Music Video for "Away I Go", nominated for "Best Rock Artist" at the Toronto Independent Music Awards and featured as an international "buzzworthy" act by MusicDish China.

The band's Buffalo debut is 21+ with a $5 cover; Perry and crew are set to take the stage at 10:00 pm with local openers Radio Static & Rabbit Jaw. Doors open at 8:00 pm.


To learn more about Rose Cora Perry & The Truth Untold, connect with them on social media at:
www.facebook.com/rosecoraperryofficial
www.twitter.com/rosecoraperry
www.instagram.com/rosecoraperry

Stone Priest - Buffalo, NY

Stone Priest - Buffalo, NY
Helmet Lady Records

Stone Priest description and artwork courtesy of their bandcamp page.
https://stonepriest.bandcamp.com/
Stone Priest on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/artist/0aW7EbGUqN2WwZXWe9C8mQ

Stone Priest band members...
Harold Pollinger - Keys, Vox
Shea Rayhn - Drums, Vox
Christopher Delmont - Guitar, B/U Vox
Larry Gartley - Bass

Stoner rock roaring out of Buffalo, NY – Stone Priest are bringing a keyboards infused riff assault to the masses! Their keyboard histrionics and gothic undertones set them in a league of their own.

Pallor Mortis is available on blue vinyl.

Stone Priest: Pallor Mortis album review by Joe Tell. 
(Pallor Mortis is the first stage of death, it's an after-death paleness that occurs in those with light/white skin.) 
Pallor Mortis from Stone Priest starts off with Take It Back. The first few measures are dominated by a keyboard sound that can best be described as the eerie sound that is often heard in horror/slasher movies, the sound sets the tone for what's to come. A solid, melodic bass line pierces the keyboard sound establishing the rhythm. The vocals immediately reminded me of Black Sabbath's drummer Bill Ward. Bill Ward sang lead vocals on It's Alright and Swinging The Chain. Comparisons can also be made to Dave Walker and Al Atkins. The tempo of the music gets faster as the keys take a solo, a return to the original tempo takes the song out.  
Warped begins with a wavering keyboard line that continues into a melancholy melodic line. As the band comes in the keys and band switch off playing a descending and ascending melodic pattern, the sound is distinctive and psychedelic. The song continues with some staccato starts and stops, a brief keyboard solo adds yet another cool sound to the mix. 
Doomsday kicks off with the band showing off some excellent musicianship, with its fast tempo and blazing lead guitar. The vocal mix could be better. Deep Purple and Faith No More come to mind when listening to this particular track.
Time Takes All starts off slow and builds into a 70's space rock jam. The rhythm section and the keyboards dominate the mix. The sparse sound effects and spacy vocals are a nice touch. My only qualm is the guitar could be louder in the mix.
Dwarf is a quick little jam that starts off with a laugh that sounds evil. The band shows off a progressive side that is pierced by some cool keyboard rakes. Stone Priest fits in some quick tempo shifts that keep the sound interesting.
One For The Money is my favorite song on Pallor Mortis. The keyboard intro is dramatic leading into the song. A comparison to Pink Floyd seems obvious going by the song title and lyrical content. The guitar solo is the best on the album. The band shows off it's tight musical chops and a great keyboard solo takes the song out.
Rotten Blarney Stone features the best vocal and percussion performance on Pallor Mortis. The song has a decidedly 70's progressive rock sound. 
Ash To Dust is the heaviest track on Pallor Mortis. The bass heavy mix is powerful and full of aggression. 

Special thanks to Stone Priest and Helmet Lady Records.

Terrible Lizard Comics - Buffalo, NY