Talking with the 2012 Pitch Music Award Nominees
It’s just over a year since I took over as music editor down here at 1701 Main, but I’ve been writing for The Pitch on and off since the mid-aughts. I like to think that I possess a certain amount of institutional knowledge about our newspaper — about the writers and bands and stories that have passed through these pages over the years. But I was humbled a few months back when I received a voice mail from a man seeking press coverage for a show he had put together. He had been out of the promoting game for the last decade, he said, but now he was back, and he had some new artists he thought The Pitch should check out. “I’ve always loved what The Pitch does,” he said, “covering local music, drawing attention to important musicians in this town, the Klammies, all that.”
The Klammies? What the hell are the Klammies? I wondered. I hung up the phone and resumed my joyous and terrifying daily task of writing words about music. Then, a few weeks later, I got curious again and did some Googling, asked around. It turns out that The Pitch Music Awards used to be called the Klammies: the Kansas City-Lawrence Area Music Awards. For what now seem like obvious reasons, the name was changed, in 2003.
I can’t explain why, but something about this discovery lifted my spirits. There is a lot of work that goes into planning The Pitch Music Awards and The Pitch Music Showcase, and though we do it happily, it can be a bit of a thankless gig. Bands thinking they should be nominated aren’t nominated. Bands don’t like the category they’re nominated in. The really cool bands talk about how they don’t care about The Pitch Music Awards, or The Pitch, at all. (Humans are very predictable animals, particularly when matters of pride are at stake.) I suppose learning about the Klammies, which started all the way back in the 1990s (imagine!), made me feel like I was part of something bigger — not just an annual event but a tradition to be celebrated.
And so celebrate we will. (DMB forever, y’all!) But seriously, you guys, the party starts this weekend, Saturday, August 4, with The Pitch Music Showcase in Westport — 30 acts, six venues, all kinds of genres, all local everything — and culminates with the awards ceremony August 12. We’ve spent the last few weeks tracking down our nominated acts and asking them what’s new in their world, what life as a musician is like here in Kansas City, why they do what they do. Read through the many pages that follow for those answers. Then come on out Saturday and see some of those folks perform — and join me as I pour one out for the Klammies.
AMERICANA/BLUEGRASS
The Blackbird Revue
What’s new?
We’ve really been enjoying performing as a three-piece band. In the past, we’ve played with as many as six band members but decided to streamline after our drummer moved out of state last year. It’s been a really fun challenge to come up with creative ways (we’ve all become multi-instrumentalists) for us to maintain our driving folk-rock sound. We recently returned from Nashville, where we recorded a new four-song EP with producer Don Chaffer. It will be titled Glow and will be released in the next two months.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Honestly. I’d personally label us under the “Americana” moniker and say, above all, we try to write great songs. We hope that a music critic, and anyone who listens to our music, would be both entertained and edified.
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Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We’ve had the pleasure of performing a few times with Quiet Corral and really enjoy what they bring to the KC-Lawrence music scene. Their live show is high-energy and fun and features some really solid musicianship. They’re also some of the nicest guys you’ll meet.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Kansas City has a number of great music venues. We’ve been fortunate to have played a lot of them. Some that we really loved (R Bar and Crosstown Station) have recently closed, but other cool new venues like Nica’s 320 have recently opened. Our personal favorite venue to play is RecordBar. They’re great people, and they have consistently great sound and an overall vibe that seems to fit us and our style of music well.
The Grisly Hand
What’s new?
Oh, you know, same ol’, just chillin’, bustin’ hips, bustin’ lips. We just wrapped up a long weekend of tracking for our first full-length album, which will be released in January 2013. We are also looking forward to some regional touring, including Chicago and St. Louis.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
They wouldn’t. In a perfect world, they’d just link to the music on their blog, and you could decide for yourself.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Mortgages. Also, we all speak the language. But I also think that KC is a big enough music town for us. Almost every time I go see a local band play, I go home hungry and jealous. That’s exactly the way I want to feel.
Root & Stem
What’s new?
We have a completely new lineup and sound. We’re hitting up Element Recording studios in September to work on our new EP.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
In a perfect world, music critics would listen to our band. We play the blues, rock and roll, Americana and whatever else inspires us.
What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
It’s a shame that Kansas City hasn’t been able to sustain its musical relevance in America. We certainly think there is a lot of great musical history in this town, and we are trying to revive some of that former glory. And we think there’s still plenty of room for Root and Stem to grow in our hometown.
Also nominated: The Roseline, Quiet Corral, Dead Voices
BLUES
The B’Dinas
What’s new?
First of all, being nominated for a Pitch Music Award! We’ve never been nominated for one before, and we’re thrilled to be included with so many awesome Kansas City artists. We released our second EP, Morning Party, last February.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
“Multidimensional psychedelic blues rock,” in a word or two. It’s hard to find the right way to encompass all the musical ideas that comprise our sound, but that pretty much covers it. “Fun” is another descriptor that we aspire to.
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
It’s a little strange for the rest of the band members, being nominated in the same category as our lead guitarist (Katy Guillen, Katy & Go-Go). But she’s such a talented musician and performer, we’re just proud to have her in the B’Dinas and excited for her to be nominated twice! Our bassist and saxophonist, Peter Lawless, plays with the People’s Liberation Big Band, and they’re one of the best shows in town. They bring such modern and interesting ideas to an old-school style. The Cave Girls are one of our favorite bands right now. They’re a lot of fun, and they pack a huge punch into two-minute songs. We love the Good Foot. Sometimes you just want to go out and cut a rug to something classic, and they’re it. Julia Haile has a killer presence as their frontwoman; she’s mesmerizing. The whole band is always so tight and confident onstage that they’re a pleasure to watch.
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What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
We love Kansas City because it’s got a lot of variety and a lot of things to see and hear, but it’s not too big to ever make a dent in. Different genres coexist peacefully here, and sometimes blend together to create really unique styles. The musicians in town are friendly and approachable, and there’s a great spirit of collaboration and mutual support among the bands in KC. We don’t feel like we have to get into a who’s-cooler or who’s-hipper contest with anyone else because everyone’s doing their own thing, and for the most part seem to be genuine fans of each other’s work.
Coyote Bill
What’s new?
Well, we dropped the “and the Wild Ones” a little over a year ago, but it’s all right because a lot of people still call us that [Coyote Bill & the Wild Ones]. We have a new drummer in Cody Castille — he’s the son of Billy Beale and he’s been with us for a year or so.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We hope to have a new CD out before the end of the year. In October, we are going back to play at the King Biscuit Blues Festival in Helena, Arkansas. It will be our second year in a row there, and we are really excited about that. Other than that, we’ve been playing shows all over the area and generally flipping the bird at the blues bourgeoisie.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
Rugged and raw. Fun, entertaining, electrifying. Energetic and regicidal.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Them Damned Young Livers, Linda Shell & the Blues Thang, Margo May — because they are all really talented and hardworking and have been busting their arses on the local scene for a while now. Plus any band that calls themselves the Pizza Party Massacre has got to be great. Don’t know anything about them, but I like them already.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
A lot of the status quo blues venues in town won’t give us the time of day, so we play wherever we can.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Hell, I don’t know. I can say this: Four years ago, I competed in one of the Kansas City Blues Society’s solo/duo competitions as a solo act. I didn’t win, and afterward one of the judges said to me that he couldn’t vote for me because I didn’t grow up in the KC area, so he didn’t consider me a local artist. Well, since then, my band has been nominated for The Pitch Music Awards twice, so that jackass can suck it.
Samantha Fish
What’s new?
We completed two European tours earlier this year. I’ve also changed things within the band: Go-Go Ray joined on drums, and Chris Alexander just joined us on the bass. This year, I won a BMA (Blues Music Award) for Best New Artist, which is a huge honor. We filmed a DVD earlier this year from the Girls With Guitars Tour. We filmed a live performance in Worpswede, Germany, and it will be released as both a DVD and a CD. The release party is August 31 at Knuckleheads.
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In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
A tight trio, with a solid driving rhythm section led by rocking guitar leads and passionate vocals. Eclectic, modern blues with an edge.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Trampled Under Foot is awesome. They have done so much over the years, and they are stellar musicians. I’m also a Mark Lowrey and Nace Brothers fan.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
I’m very, very fond of Knuckleheads and B.B.’s Lawnside BBQ. The Trouser Mouse is a great venue out east, and Llywelyn’s Pub in south Johnson County is a lot of fun, too.
Grand Marquis
What’s new?
We’re real proud of our new vinyl-CD combo, The Sun Session, that we recorded at Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee. It’s been getting a lot of airplay, and they’ve been flying off the shelves at our live shows. The CD also includes video, pics and the story behind the recording, so it’s been great to offer something for the audiophile (in the 45 rpm record single) in addition to making great use of technology to give our fans more than previously possible.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
We play the kind of music that brings people together from every generation and background: racially, socioeconomically, etc. It’s unifying music in the divisive world we live in. You can describe it as blues, swing, jazz or roots because it is all of those things. It’s got as strong a local flavor as your favorite KC barbecue, with just the right amount of New Orleans influence to make you crave beignets for dessert. I would like to think we have taken Kansas City’s heritage and moved it forward, swinging into the 21st century.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The Latenight Callers have great panache and are great at supporting the live-music scene when they are not playing. Hearts of Darkness is unique and a real asset to the scene. It’s good to see good guys like Hipshot Killer and the Rumblejetts nominated. The blues category is truly stacked with talent that is recognized nationally and internationally in the blues scene. Most cities are envious of our local talent, and the competition for our International Blues Challenge representative spot is probably the hardest to earn of any spot in the nation.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Jazz has been our home on Thursdays for about 13 years, so they are like family. Californos’ ballroom has been the perfect host for our legendary “jazz battles” (next one: August 26); it’s kind of a hidden gem in the music scene. The club scene in KC is ever-dynamic with the new Chesterfield Club and Kill Devil opening, both downtown at 14th and Main. There are a couple of new blues clubs out on 135th Street in OP, like Quasimodo. It’s exciting to see the demand for live music out there.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
This is the perfect town for us to thrive; we’re staying here to help KC return to the big music city it was in the first half of the 20th century! Looking forward to more musicians moving here because it’s a great scene; the current blues scene is already nationally envied.
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Katy & Go-Go
What’s new?
Katy & Go-Go recently became Katy
Guillen & Kelsey Cook & Tim Braun (official band name TBA!). Both Go-Go and I are in multiple projects, and one of Go-Go’s bands has been touring more often the last couple of months and will be in the months to come, making him unavailable to play with me. We decided that my songs and the music need to continue onward. With the new band, we will most likely release an album within the next year.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Lick-driven soulful rock.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
The Brick, because not only does it always have great food and music but Sheri Parr gave Katy & Go-Go our first steady gig, which allowed us to build our first steady following. Also, RecordBar for their professionalism and respect for the artist.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
I have stayed in Kansas City because it has been a solid foundation for me my whole life. I grew up playing music in Kansas City and have met and played with a multitude and variety of amazing local musicians — everything from the blues at B.B.’s Lawnside BBQ with John Paul and Bill Dye to flamenco with Beau Bledsoe. My roots are here in the relationships I’ve cultivated with the artistic community.
Also nominated: Linda Shell & the Blues Thang, Trampled Under Foot
COUNTRY/ROCKABILLY
Adam Lee & the Dead Horse Sound Company
What’s new?
We’re in the early stages of putting our third record together. Since our last release, we’ve put together a ton of new material — a lot of upbeat honky-tonk shuffles, a few ballads, even some western swing tunes. We’ve narrowed it down to what we feel are the best songs and just finished laying down the foundations for most of them.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
We play traditional-styled honky-tonk country but try to keep it fresh. It’s a type of music that’s still as powerful and relevant as it ever was, but a lot of folks don’t even realize that they would like it. Nashville has repurposed the “country” genre, and that current stuff is a turnoff to a lot of people. I call what we do honky-tonk. I’d love it if I could call it country and not be confused with Taylor Swift.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
I’m not a Kansas City native, so I didn’t know what to expect when I moved here four years ago. What I found was an exciting, cultured community that went out of its way to support the arts. From First Friday events to fantastic music venues to most any kind of restaurant you can imagine, KC’s definitely got a healthy dose of culture. Also, being so central, all sorts of bands come through the area all the time. We’ve made and maintained tons of friendships due to that.
The Crybaby Ranch
What’s new?
Nothing too new to speak of. Still plugging along and learning a few new tunes here and there. We are hoping to record our first album together this fall. We recorded a one-song demo almost two years ago — it seems we’re finally ready to commit to a full-length.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Oh, we’d hope the critics would say something about how we’re an energetic six-piece and how we’re a standout with harmonies and fun arrangements of classic western swing, honky-tonk and rockabilly songs as well as some swell original tunes by the three muses in the group. And maybe something about how there’s really no one like us in KC. And how Lucky Lindy tears it up on guitar. And how you can’t help but dance when listening to us.
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What’s your favorite KC venue?
We love the Riot Room for the sound, the intimacy of Coda, Aftershock for the built-in KC Rockabilly crowd. Davey’s and Czar are fun as well. Another newer venue we’re excited about is Club 906 in Liberty. The list could go on.
The Blue Boot Heelers
What’s new?
We have been real busy writing songs for our second record, due out in the fall. Playing live when we can and trying to stay out of trouble. That’s hard to do when you’re in an outlaw country band.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Pure outlaw country.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We are huge fans of the Rumblejetts and Adam Lee & the DHSC — high-energy sets with plenty of drinkin’ songs.
The Nace Brothers
What’s new?
Our newest release was Well Traveled Road, in August 2011. Thanks to all forms of radio, digital sales and driving like hell playing gigs, it’s been doing great for us, and right now we couldn’t be happier. On June 1, we added Paul Greenlease on bass guitar, and it has been like putting a new spark plug in the old lawn mower.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Songs from the heart played by seasoned professionals who love to have a good time doing what they do.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
We get around quite a bit, and it works for us. I think we’re gone enough to avoid overexposure. We love KC, and every venue is a party once we get going. People love to sing along with our song “Quitcher Bitchin,” and when we end the night with our classic Nace Brothers “Life Goes On,” it gets everyone on their feet. It’s just a great vibe — I’ve never seen it fail.
Them Damned Young Livers
What’s new?
Well, [member] Tripp’s old lady is having a baby. We’re getting ready to record a little EP while on a temporary show hiatus. We’ve been at this for six years and never taken a break. So we’re taking a little time away from deadlines and touring to birth a baby and make sure we’re not burning ourselves out.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
We’ve been called punkabilly, cowpunk, shlockabilly trainwreck … the list goes on. One thing we’re not is rockabilly. I mean, our hair is at times. We really just pride ourselves on good country themes and melodies, wrapped in Misfits-era punk rock. Of course, that all goes to hell when we get onstage, primarily because we get really drunk and break everything. Sometimes we forget that we’re supposed to be trying to play well.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Of course we love all of the bands in our category. Most are dear friends. We’ve even had sex with some of them.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
We love the Riot Room, hands down. Always a great crowd. They always take care of us. Plus we can shoot guns in the green room. (That happened.)
What do you like about KC as a music town?
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Friends and family. We gave up a long time ago on the delusion of monetary success in this business. We’ve redefined success as loving our scene and always having fun.
Also nominated: The Rumblejetts
DJ
Brent Tactic
What’s new?
A number of things, really. There’s a new release on my label, Think 2wice Records, from an L.A. artist, Cy Kosis, that dropped July 31. Tacticwise, we have a tune in the can for an August release on Top Billin records. Secret Sauce has a tune coming out on a Think 2wice free release in August. There’s a bunch more in the works across the board coming soon as well.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
They’d describe me as a music lover before anything else.
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Morri$ in my category is killing it. Making Movies, Hearts of Darkness. There’s a number of local artists who weren’t nominated who are fantastic as well.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
I’d say Westport in general is my favorite. Gusto, Union, Riot Room.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
As a music town, we’re in an infancy stage with a lot of potential. Anyone will tell you it’s been that way for a long time. But there’s a wave here right now. And your readers and music fans in KC in general should get on the wave if they haven’t already. It’s a very exciting time.
Sheppa
What’s new?
I will release an end-of-summer mixtape, a few remixes and an EP this fall. Look for them at soundcloud.com/sheppa and soundcloud.com/nomathmatics. I am still involved in two monthly parties: Beauty Magic and BODY2BODY. Beauty Magic is a collaboration with my fellow Botnet Hive DJs, consisting of a beauty bar, cotton candy, and a J-Rave environment. BODY2BODY is a moombahtrap-disco-bass party that has been going strong for over a year at various KC Clubs including the Union and the Riot Room. It’s a collaboration with VJs Goonpox, Marvin Gardens, Trey Bryan, and special guests. And I am also involved in parties on Wednesdays at the Gusto, rotating between Life 3D and MidWeek Moombah.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
A combination of moombahtrap, blind disco, tropical bass, and Oprah’s sensibility
What do you like about KC as a music town?
The people who come to my shows are always open to what I have to play, which keeps me inspired and pushes my boundaries of the music I mix at each show.
Also nominated: Andrew Northern, Morri$, Paul DeMatteo
ELECTRONIC
18 Carat Affair
What’s new?
I just finished a compilation album from the first six releases titled
Pure Gold. It’s sort of a greatest-hits album with 30 tracks. It can be heard at sunsetcorp.org.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Predictably unpredictable, exotic VHS-sound paintings.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I really dig CVLTS and other artists from KC’s “Beer on the Rug.” New soundscapes.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
It’s not overpopulated, the people here are great, and it’s affordable to dream.
Motorboater
What’s new?
Nothing. Music is mostly fun, but it’s a raw challenge to make something that is fresh and unique to yourself, much less others. There is a lot of shitty music in the world — why add to it? When Motorboater does have new tracks, you’ll know all about it because it will be fantastic.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
SPORT came out last summer. It’s still good. The plan is to start collaborating with some other local artists I deeply respect, hopefully producing some tracks.
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In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
In a perfect world, all the blogs would simply say Motorboater sounds like the best thing that could have possibly ever happened in 1991. Mood music for Olympic gymnasts and domesticated wolves.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Cowboy Indian Bear is the best band in Kansas, bar none. Don’t even bother. They are so fly. Is Capybara nominated? Their new record is very well done. Don’t sleep on Quiet Corral. Conquerors could very well be the best band in Missouri.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
I’ve always liked the majesty of a big room like the Madrid or Uptown. But I’ve never had the chance to perform there. The Union of Westport is as intimate as it gets, but a packed house at RecordBar is unmatched in this town.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Thousands and thousands of dollars. For real. It’s like that Drums song: I’d like to buy you something, but I don’t have any money.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
You can make music that only half the people who experience it understand, and you can still win a Pitch Music Award. Plus, remember the Get Up Kids? They were pretty cool.
Say My Name
What’s new?
In the last couple of months, I’ve done remixes for CVLTS, Ghosty and Fag Cop. I’m still in the process of figuring out how or if I’m going to release Say My Name 2 as a physical entity. I’d love to do vinyl, but it is very cost-prohibitive. I’m not sure what direction I’m going to take for the next album, but I’m thinking it will involve more live instrumentation and less sampling.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Some blog described my first record as “two-dimensional sheets of sound rustle and scrape together like the construction paper waves at a gold-glitter and platinum chainz stop-motion beach party.” I don’t know what that means, but I like it.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The ACBs, Ghosty, Muscle Worship, the Roseline, Mansion and, of course, my ex-bandmates in Fourth of July.
What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
There’s something for everybody, and no one sound or genre is particularly dominant in the area. You’d be hard-pressed to say something had a “Lawrence sound” or a “Kansas City sound,” and I actually think that’s a good thing. It’s a testament to the variety and diversity of musicians willing to endure horrible weather and middling professional sports teams.
Also nominated: Max Justus, Power and Light
EMERGING ACT
Deco Auto
What’s new?
We just released our debut EP, Past Mistakes and Hauntings, on July 6. We played a super fun show with the Pedaljets for that, and a total of five shows in two weekends to support the release.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
A crunchy, power-pop trio, influenced by the likes of Superdrag and Dave Clark Five but with more attractive members. It’s fun, it’s not mathematical, and it will delight young and old.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
We’ve found that the music community is mostly supportive of one another, which is something you may not find in a larger city. The musical and artistic diversity is an added bonus, and what people outside KC don’t realize is that we have some damn talented folks here. [Deco Auto members] Steve and Tracy have lived in KC only a few years. They were afraid that life here would be like the movie Footloose, but instead it’s been more like a Flaming Lips concert video. Michelle is a longtime native and finds that living in KC is like neither of these things but loves it just the same.
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Fullbloods
What’s new?
We’re currently recording our second full-length album, scheduled to be released in late October on Golden Sound Records. We also released a single titled “Heavily Drugged” in April on the Golden Sound Records/the Record Machine vinyl LP split Secret Handshakes.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
“I saw them live and I really enjoyed the music. They all make weird faces but are still incredibly handsome.”
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Shy Boys, the ACBs, Ghosty, the Caves, Hearts of Darkness, Max Justus, Hidden Pictures, the B’Dinas … I’m sorry, there are too many.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
I’ve always been kind of a hometown-turf guy. If it’s your city, invest in it. The music community here is getting bigger, and I’m really liking what’s coming out of it. Now get off your butt and go see a show.
Radkey
What’s new?
Putting the finishing touches on some new songs. New EP coming in September.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
In a perfect world, they’d say we have a catchy beat and you could dance to it.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Deco Auto, Soft Reeds, Dead Girls and Mouthbreathers. They all rock.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
RecordBar because they have great sound, awesome food and good people. The Riot Room is a close second.
The Cave Girls
What’s new?
We are about to play the P&L District for the first time ever. Hopefully we can lure some of their clientele into some local establishments in the future! Released our first EP on Cave Out Records last winter.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
“The Cave Girls hit you like a club to the head!!“
What do you like about KC as a music town?
The Kansas City scene is on fire! Every time we play, we are seeing other bands kicking ass! It’s a great moment for Kansas City music!
The Clementines
What’s new?
We are are now a four-piece band, with Travis Earndshaw on bass and Stephanie Williams on drums. They make up a phenomenal rhythm section, and we are much more rocking in general now.
What other nominated acts are you a fan of?
We are huge fans of the Cave Girls. They are a lot of fun, kind of classic Who meets the Kinks with a little bit on the Bengals thrown in. Plus Stephanie is their bassist. She’s in about 900 bands.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Tough to say … the Trouser Mouse in Blue Springs has been very good to us — we got our start there, and their initial acceptance of us was very important. RecordBar and the Brick are always fun to play. The staff at both are super nice, and they are pros when it comes to live music. We got the chance to play VooDoo a couple of times recently, and the stage lighting and sound system there are amazing. It’s a blast to play.
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What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
KC has its ups and downs as a music town. At times, the scene seems to be very segregated and limited, but there are several good venues to play and people willing to listen. So we can’t really see any good reason to pack up and go.
Shy Boys
What’s new?
Nothin’. You? We did go out and see the new Batman movie last night. Pretty good. We’ve been talking about settling in and recording now for a couple of months. We just don’t seem to be in too much of a hurry to drop cash on a CD, you know? We’re just a baby band, so most of the effort has been put into building a set.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
In a dream review, the author would spend the bulk of the article waxing poetic about how good-looking we are. If they got around to talking about the music, maybe they’d talk about tight, dreamy key bumps of pop music beneath thick harmonies and jangling guitars.
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I’m a big ACBs fan. Not just because of our incestuous origins — the other two Shy Boys are in the ACBs — but because they’ve got incredible pop hooks. Ghosty put out my favorite record of 2012, local or not.
What’s your favorite KC music venue?
Uhhhhh … the Brick has good bar food.
What keeps you in Kansas City? What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
Poverty keeps us in KC. As a music town, KC hasn’t been the same since Pendergast got put in jail.
EXPERIMENTAL
Umberto
What’s new?
I recently played at the I’ll Be Your Mirror festival in London. There’s going to be a new album out in the fall on Not Not Fun, and a soundtrack for the 1982 film Pieces that I performed at the Glasgow Music and Film Festival on Rock Action.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Horror disco, electronic … not experimental.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Soft Reeds.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Nothing, really … I wanna leave.
Expo ’70
What’s new?
We were just a part of a four-way double-split LP that came out on Immune Records. [We’ve] played the Norman Music Festival, KC Psychfest, and in August will perform at the Cataracts Music Festival in Indianapolis. Justin [Wright] will be touring solo this fall in Europe, playing in 10 countries.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
The full band will record again this August for a release with a Brazilian label called Essence Music that will produce a gatefold CD with a pop-up along with a limited handmade box set. Immune Recordings in Chicago will release a vinyl version. A live recording of the full band from the weekend before the KC Psychfest this past May will be released on a new label in the U.K. called Junk Orange, called Virtually From the Unknown.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Umberto, Scammers and Monta At Odds because they are supporters of my music and the venues that we associate with.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
FOKL. It’s run by artists and supports underground music and artists from all over the United States.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
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Not much these days. It’s just cheap to live here.
Monta At Odds
What’s new?
Dedric, Delaney and Mika have formed Gemini Revolution, which incorporates Monta’s cinematic soundscape with post-punk vocals and attitude. Sterling Holman released a three-disc set, including 3-D artwork, under his alias Surroundher. Aaron Osbourne plays bass for Expo ’70. And Alexander Thomas is playing in Parts of Speech and Janet the Planet.
Anything else on the horizon?
Delaney and I (Dedric) are writing an unauthorized sequel to Blade Runner/Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, and it will be a comic book and soundtrack. We hope to release it sometime in the winter or spring.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Mind-expanding. Italian cinema vs. early Pink Floyd, vintage production. Heady.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Umberto, Expo ’70, Scammers, CS Luxem. They all had fantastic sets at the KC Psychfest. Just played with Soft Reeds and loved their vibe — lots of groove.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
FOKL. It has an all-inclusive vibe and welcomes every type of strange person equally to share the experience. It has a communal vibe that escapes the “hippie drug” tag that usually comes with musical gatherings that operate to the left of normal.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
I think KC has a lot of music fans, and they are willing to come out and support in sufficient numbers to keep the scene alive. KC has a lot of great venues that are more than willing to try out different genres to give everyone a chance to play on great stages with great sound. Why would I move to another town when I can just get in a car or plane and arrive in a few hours to play? I find it an advantage to be centrally located and have options about which direction to head.
Scammers
What’s new?
We’re stranded in Sedona, Arizona, at a giant tourist-hiking stronghold. Campsites are harder to book than this tour has been.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We just released Magic Carpet Ride on Lillerne Tapes out of Chicago. I’ve got a couple of cool Euro labels that want some stuff, so whenever we escape this Aspen-like hell, we’ll start writing and recording again.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
I don’t care. There are only a handful of music critics that have any influence, and our music is so buried in micro scenes that anyone who likes it seems to find it anyway.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Expo ’70 and Umberto. If anyone bothered to come see them, they’d know why.
What’s your favorite KC venue and why?
It’s changing every six months, but the current DIY venue that is willing to expand beyond punk shows is FOKL. Whoever’s putting in their time and effort to that cause will always be my fave.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a big city?
My main focus is touring. KC is located perfectly in the middle of the country for U.S. tours. Supposedly it’s cheaper here, but I’ve been shit broke since the day I moved here.
CS Luxem
What’s new?
Split release on Whatever Forever with Lazurite. Booking a September-October tour.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Mutant Motown mixtape.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Scammers, Expo ’70, Monta At Odds, Umberto.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
KCK: FOKL. KCMO: Front/Space.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
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I like the centralized location of KC to everywhere else in America. Also, there is so much talent in so many genres of music in KC that I never even feel close to knowing all that is out there.
GARAGE/PUNK
The Conquerors
What’s new?
We’re recording right now for a tape that’s coming out called African Culture Wear.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I always like the idea of a kind of psychotropic music, like binaural beats or something. You get high from the music. So, yeah, psychotropic.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Expo ’70 has been bringing it. Also, Ad Astra Arkestra and Hearts of Darkness.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
FOKL is the last bastion of an underground scene in KC. Psychfest was just killer.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
We can’t afford to move to a bigger music city. And where anyways? We all have the Internet.
Hipshot Killer
What’s new?
We’re finishing up a four-song EP that will be available online in August and hopefully as a 10-inch record by the end of the year, depending on whether I decide to start selling drugs again. We’ve got a show with the Architects in August at RecordBar. We want to play in Chicago before next year, too.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
These guys
clearly take equal influence from Aesop Rock, Leonard Cohen and Geto Boys.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
U.S.Americans. Great punk-rock band.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
The Mustache Room.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
We’re from here. It’s centrally located. Cost of living is cheap. Most bars are open until 3 a.m.
Pizza Party Massacre
What’s new?
We have a six-song 7-inch record that will be arriving either tomorrow or Monday!
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Perfect for skateboarding and partying down with pizzas and a refreshing beer.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Nature Boys! We are voting for them! They deserve the award. Please give it to them.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Davey’s Uptown Ramblers Club and lots of basements.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
We are too poor to move all of us someplace else. Lots of great bands have been coming through over the past year.
U.S.Americans
What’s new?
Combo Meal EP released at the beginning of the year. Hoping to record an LP sometime before the apocalypse comes later.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Shit sandwich.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We share members with the Grisly Hand and Ad Astra Arkestra. We also love New Riddim, Sucked Dry and Nature Boys.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
Scion Lab was the most legit DIY venue in town, and I don’t think anyone can deny it. Ever since its demise, we think the scene in general has taken a severe downturn. Most kids we know who were in bands have turned to hard narcotics and abandoned their self-expression altogether in the Lab’s wake.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
KC is amazing, and barely anyone knows about it. There is incredible, passionate music being played in this city by genuinely smart and cool people all the time. There is a lot of creativity being harvested, and I think it’s starting to regain its good reputation despite certain authorities who don’t see music as a valid form of expression. That being said, we’re really just waiting for all of this Bieber mania to die down so we can finally book it to Los Angeles and take our piece of the fame pie.
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Also nominated: Mouthbreathers, Nature Boys, Sucked Dry
HIP-HOP
Greg Enemy
What’s new?
Actually not a whole lot. I’ve sort of been taking a bit of a break, but I’m gearing up to start playing a few shows and working on some new projects soon.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
“Eh, it’s pretty good, I guess.”
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Everybody in my category. Love Hearts of Darkness, love Cowboy Indian Bear, shouts to my brother Morri$. I played a show awhile back with Diverse and Soft Reeds. I’m also really feeling them.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Who says I won’t move to a bigger city at some point? Haha.
Reach
What’s new?
I’m currently working on two new album projects. Both projects are collaborative works with producers from New York. The first, titled Perfect Strangers, is solely produced by Brady James. The other, currently untitled, is produced by major underground beatmaker Marco Polo.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
Soulful. Insightful. Emotive. Deeply human.
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Stik Figa, Diverse, Hermon Mehari, Clay Hughes. They’re all amazingly talented musicians whom I also respect as people.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
RecordBar. I have so many wonderful memories. It’s been the site of so many important shows throughout my career. It’s a special, special place.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
The struggle is the same no matter where you go. The challenge of living in a smaller market is learning to utilize all of your resources to catch eyes and ears outside of Kansas City. It’s a working-class scene. You get from it what you’ve put into it. It’s very much about paying dues and earning your stripes irrespective of genre.
Ron Ron
What’s new?
Just getting into the swing of things again. Had a few months of inactivity musicwise. Sporting a new haircut — high-top fade with the old-school part on the side. Yup, pretty fresh. I have Mr. No It All 2: Higher Learning ready to drop any day now. FrankEinstein 3.0 should be available digitally on Halloween. And I’m taking bookings in a few places I’ve never been. Slow grinding. Trying to please the fans.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Like moral sex with a porn star.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Stik — he’s so honest and determined and professional.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
Either Uptown or Midland. Because as soon as you walk in, you get the feeling that it’s about to be some live and dope shit poppin’ all night.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
I actually just moved away once I got off probation. Been gone for two months. Probably just disqualified myself for next year, huh?
Soul Servers
What’s new?
In the lab, making new music and getting ready for some college shows in the fall. Deucifer released his solo project,
8 Bit, a few weeks ago. Louiz Rip released Joe Average two months ago. And Smoov Confusion’s upcoming project, Der Kater, is due out by September.
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In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
We’ve been referred to as hip-hop’s version of the Beatles. Hip-hop with an alternative edge to it.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We support everyone nominated in the hip-hop category, as we are friends of, or associate with, all of them in some form. Outside of the hip-hop category, we are big fans of Brent Tactic, Clay Hughes and a few others.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Riot Room. The sound system is one of the best in the city, and it’s more intimate. The people are right in your face, so you know you gotta come with it when you’re performing.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
KC, as far as hip-hop goes, really has yet to develop its own sound. The world will probably look at Tech N9ne and say, “Well, KC likes to rap fast.” I think we are on the verge of cultivating something unique, and we want to be a part of that movement. Nothing better than to be able to say you were a part of a musical revolution. One of the more enjoyable parts of the music scene here is that you see a lot of artists working together from all genres of music. It’s nice to know that artists from the same town take the time to check out each other’s music and show support.
Stik Figa
What’s new?
I had my first daughter, which is a blessing, so I’ve been in newborn mode for the majority of the summer. I have rereleased Stik Figa as Himself as a national release through burgeoning rap indie Mello Music Group.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I would like people to describe my music as down-to-earth and fun, while remaining intelligent throughout. But folks probably just say I sound like Jay-Z.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
As far as nominated acts, I am a fan of Ron Ron — dude is the most complex, nuanced rapper I have heard in quite some time. He makes rap interesting for me, something I can’t say about many artists nationally, locally or otherwise.
Favorite KC venue?
Favorite venue goes to Riot Room, always a good time, and an intimate crowd that’s ready to listen.
Also nominated: thePhantom*
JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Diverse
What’s new?
We just finished tracking our second jazz record in Paris with special guest artist Logan Richardson on saxophone. Diverse has also been working on more collaborations with artists such as Reach, Les Izmore, Julia Haile, Lee Langston and Anthony Saunders.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We are bringing back our Michael Jackson show due to popular demand on August 24 at RecordBar.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
In the past two years, we’ve played pop, punk, modern jazz, hip-hop, R&B and traditional jazz. So, ideally, the critics would describe us in terms of how the music we’re playing makes them feel on an aesthetic level instead of trying to label or pinpoint what we do.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The Good Foot because they’re an amazingly tight band, and we happen to work a lot with members Tim Braun and Julia Haile. MC Reach is another collaborator, and we’re a fan of him because he’s one of the best MCs out there, and his knowledge and appreciation of music is incredible.
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The People’s Liberation Big Band
What’s new?
[Celebrating] the fourth anniversary of the Jeff Harshbarger Jazz Series at RecordBar on Sunday, August 5. We’re doing a larger version of our production of “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” with Owen/Cox Dance Group at the Folly Theater this December.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
The love child of a three-way with Igor Stravinsky, Brian Wilson and Albert Ayler.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
RecordBar, because they have hosted our monthly large-ensemble jazz freakout for the past four years.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
Kansas City is a great place to start new ensembles and experiment with new music. Right now there are more great musicians calling Kansas City home than at any time within the last 50 years.
The Project H
What’s new?
We just released our second CD,
Become Light, a couple of months ago.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
In a perfect world, we wouldn’t need descriptors or genres. Just good music and not-so-good music.
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The jazz community here is pretty close and supportive of one another, so I’m a fan of all the other jazz groups and soloists. I sit in with Hearts of Darkness and the New Riddim every once in a while, so even though they’re in the same category, I’m rooting for them both.
What’s your favorite venue in KC?
Take Five. Good food and drinks, the owners and the staff are awesome, and they took a chance on us when we were getting started.
Also nominated: Alaturka, Snuff Jazz
JAZZ SOLO
Hermon Mehari
What’s new?
I just finished recording an album with Diverse in Paris. I’m about to go on a U.S. tour out East with John Velghe.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
I’m slowly working on a mixtape to put out myself. I’m also periodically putting out things online with other Kansas City artists.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I’m a huge fan of Reach. He’s one of my favorite MCs, and we work together all the time on several different levels. The Good Foot might be my favorite band in the city. I’m also a fan of John Velghe — he’s got a lot going on musically, and he knows what he’s doing in terms of getting his music beyond Kansas City.
Jeff Harshbarger
What’s new?
I’m in Amsterdam, finishing up the European tour with Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey. We just played the North Sea Jazz Festival, and it was terrific! Some of my favorite groups in modern music were there, and I am honored to have been a part of it.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
When I get back home, I’ll finish up the next Alaturka record and then start writing for the People’s Liberation Big Band, my own trio, and my new duo with Brad Cox. I’m also looking forward to returning to the Kauffman, this time with the Bach Aria Soloists.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Necessary.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Hearts of Darkness: best live act in Kansas City.
Dead Voices: Those voices, that guitar … what’s not to love?
Amy Farrand: KC legend.
Expo ’70 and Monta: great noise.
People’s Liberation Big Band, Alaturka, Snuff Jazz: I enjoy playing with them.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Helzberg Hall at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. It completely lives up to its reputation. Visually, it is absolutely gorgeous. Acoustically, it is the most beautiful and giving room I have ever performed in.
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What do you like about KC as a music town?
I think our city has been going through a real cultural renaissance. Kansas City has a large population of creative citizens that has been steadily honing and cultivating their craft for years, and now there is a growing audience for that work. We have every kind of venue you can think of, and there are just as many places where an artist can take risks as there are places that will give you the tried-and-true. Our city has its own rhythm, its own swagger, and I’m proud to be a part of it.
Mark Lowrey
What’s new?
This has been an interesting year. I was the music director for a tribute to the music of Etta James, put together a few jazz and hip-hop shows, played in the rock opera
Hedwig and the Angry Inch, wrote several jingles for e-cards and stuffed animals for Hallmark, toured briefly with the American Tenors on the East Coast, and played more than 300 gigs all over town. This past January, I got to go back to Mali, West Africa, to be the art team leader for Medical Missions Foundation. [I was] playing a Casio keyboard out in the village of Ouelessebougou. Unfortunately, some weeks after we returned, the military seized power of the government.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
I’m recording my second solo CD this month. It’s called Tangos for 18th Street. It’s a blend of jazz improvisation and Argentine-tango stylistic nuances. The record will include originals, a few old-school tangos, and some KC covers from artists like Brad Cox, the Republic Tigers and Barclay Martin.
On August 18, I’m orchestrating a show at Czar Bar called “Mark Lowrey’s Return to the Toy Piano.” It will feature Afro-Latin percussionists, DJs, jazz musicians, freestyle MCs and lots of toy pianos. I’m pretty excited about this.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
It depends on what project I’m working on. Jazz is my home, but I find a lot of fulfillment in Argentine tango, Afro-Latin styles and hip-hop.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
It’s impossible to have a favorite, but after we lost so many jazz venues in 2011, I’m very excited about the Majestic right now. I have a piano-bass-drums trio there every Sunday and Monday, and I absolutely love the energy of the space.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
I play out of town once in a while, but KC is a good “home base.” I love this city, and I can afford to be a full-time musician here. I really appreciate that many jazz musicians continue to put out great shows even when many Kansas Citians don’t know or care about jazz in their town.
Also nominated: Matt Otto
LIVE ACT
Ad Astra Arkestra
What’s new?
Who dares question mother Arkestra?
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
Our boy Nathan helped us put out a 12-inch vinyl EP called Reverse Fishing. Check it out at the Record Machine. Love Garden stocks it, too.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
The Studded Bird’s memory. For punk reasons.
The Latenight Callers
What’s new?
We’re preparing a bunch of new songs to go into the studio at the end of the year and record a full-length album. And our guitarist, Ms. Ellen, is putting the finishing touches on a new whiskey still for our rehearsal space.
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In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
We like to call ourselves noir-a-go-go.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The Emerging Act and Rock categories are absolutely chock-full of groups we adore! That said, our baritone guitarist, Mr. Nemeth, would like to point out that he’s a huge fan of Mansion, for the Metal category, because he “likes to get his face melted by their sonic onslaught of pure awesome.”
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Mr. Nemeth just has too many court orders.
Making Movies
What’s new?
We just got home from our first show in Las Vegas, and needless to say, it was a blast. We just released a 7-inch and EP called Aguardiente and will be releasing our sophomore album later this fall. We had the amazing opportunity of recording with producer Steve Berlin (of Los Lobos fame). He was able to take our music to another level. I can’t wait to share it with the world.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Undeniable. Well, at least that’s what we are aiming for. When music is great, you really don’t have to say much.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I’m a fan of Mark Lowrey because he is far better at playing his instrument than I will ever be at playing my instrument. I also dig the ACBs. My friend Mike Nolte played me some of their new stuff, and it’s really good. I think Konnor [Ervin] is a great songwriter.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
I think my favorite venue has to be Knuckleheads. It’s in a bizarre location and seems to exist entirely in its own world. The venue harkens back to a day before entertainment conglomerates started screwing up the music business. Also, the night we opened up for Los Lobos at Knuckleheads last year changed a lot of things for our band.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
I think we’ve stayed here for many reasons. One, we have found a group of loyal supporters here in Kansas City, and we feel really lucky to have that in our hometown. I also feel like the music scene is growing. I’ve seen bigger local shows this year than I’ve ever seen in Kansas City. Also, after traveling, Kansas City is a great town to come home to. Life is simple here, you know?
The Good Foot
What’s new?
We’ve been traveling and playing a lot regionally in recent months, but we’ve had some great shows here in KC this year, as well. Carnivale du Soul with Hearts of Darkness at the Uptown, Spring Dance at Crossroads, and opening for George Clinton have been some of the highlights.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
Since releasing our 7-inch single, “Bad Way,” in February, we’re continually working on new original material, and we hope to have a full-length album done later this year.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
There’s a really strong community of musicians here, which I think helps drive the quality of the music across the board. Oh, and Y.J.’s and Oklahoma Joe’s.
The New Riddim
What’s new?
Our debut album, Kidnapped!, was released at the end of June.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
A perfect mix of ska, soul, and rock and roll.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
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We are all fans of the Project H and Ad Astra Arkestra.
Also nominated: Hearts of Darkness
METAL
At the Left Hand of God
What’s new?
We recently parted ways with our longtime frontman and friend, Rikk Wolf, due to his recent success with Agony World Media. We have acquired a new singer who is also a longtime friend, Brett Carter (of Sicadis and Far Beyond Driven). We just released our new album, Bayonets and Tourniquets, which was produced by Dave Thompson and mastered at Westend Recording Studio here in Kansas City. It’s available now; go check it out!
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
We suppose they would say “melodic progressive metal.”
What are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We’re a fan of a lot of the bands. Hammerlord and Cherokee Rock Rifle, to name a couple, are awesome bands and cool dudes.
Hammerlord
What’s new?
We have been lying low this year. We felt that we overplayed KC and Lawrence last year and wanted to really concentrate on writing new material in 2012, so we have not played out too much. We rocked out with Danzig in May at the Uptown, but so far that has been our only show of the year. Right now the only other show we are scheduled to play this year is our annual Halloween show called Hammerween, October 20, at the Beaumont. We did release two new songs online: “Kali Bundy” and “We Live,” so jump on our Facebook or Bandcamp and check them out!
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
I always cringe, but I would say blazing thrash metal with a modern twist.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
I am a firm believer that if you are a great band and work hard, people will hear about you. No reason to move somewhere else to get lost in the shuffle. One thing I love about KC is the unity between all the artists, no matter what genre they are. We are lucky to have the scene we have. Not all cities have it this good.
Wrath and Ruin
What’s new?
We put out our debut album,
Mouth of Oblivion, last September. And after playing a few shows to support it, we immediately began writing for our next album. I think we’re up to about a dozen new songs with a couple of more in the wings. In fact, our next show — August 30 at the Jackpot in Lawrence — will consist of almost all new material. When we hit the studio this fall, we will likely be recording for a couple of releases as well as a few covers for different bonus tracks and split 7-inches.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
My favorite term I’ve seen so far is “cinematic.” When you play so many different styles of heavy, all rolled into one band, labeling terms really seem to fall short of an accurate descriptor, but “cinematic” feels pretty good. Putting us in terms of other bands, I’d say the best description would be a hybrid of Godflesh, Meshuggah, Neurosis, Junius, Gojira … really out-of-the-box stuff like that. Half of us are pretty solidly rooted in the older, darker metal, and a couple of us are more into the newer technical material out there — it’s a great base to work from that allows you to pretty much do whatever you want musically.
What keeps you around KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
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I will never move, ever. I was raised in Kansas City and have lived in Lawrence for most of my life. I’ve been out there on the road. I’ve seen the other fancy-schmancy towns. They’re not all that great — nice to visit, don’t want to live there. KC has a great artistic community, great history (don’t even get me started on the history) and amazing people. I couldn’t imagine trying to do this anywhere else. The diversity and raw talent in this part of the country is truly staggering sometimes. I think it also helps that Wrath and Ruin isn’t looking for tours, record deals, radio play or to sell our brand to AP subscribers — we’re really just in it to turn up the volume and exorcise some demons.
Also nominated: Mansion, Sicadis
POP
Fourth of July
What’s new?
Still working on our new album with Chris Crisci (Appleseed Cast, Old Canes). When we are done, we will be shopping it around to labels. We are also putting together some old material for a Bandcamp-only release.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
Real.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The ACBs, Ghosty, the Roseline … because they all write really amazing songs.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
We love playing in KC! Our last couple of shows at the Brick have been off the chain. We also love RecordBar.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
We are in Lawrence, but KC gets better and better every time we play there. The music and art scenes are as good as any big city, not to mention Gates, Bryant’s, the Nelson and the WWI museum!
Ghosty
What’s new?
Our third full-length album came out in April on vinyl and digital formats, available at ghostysounds.com. New Ghosty music is being written all the time.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
I’d like for them to say nice things about the band, but describing us as “wildly popular” and “wildly successful” would be pretty cool, too.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
There really aren’t any lemons in the Pop category. The ACBs and Fourth of July are our pals, and we’re always impressed by their new music. They’re constantly striving to top themselves with their new albums. I think the new ACBs album is going to be really good, but I’m probably biased because I’m in the band.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
Probably RecordBar. They run a tight ship. It’s a very music-oriented place but still a fun hangout.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city? What do you like about KC as a music town?
I’m not sure we’ll be here forever, but we’ve got our roots down pretty deep in KC at this point. The music scene has been really supportive to us over the years, and we are definitely in a comfort zone of sorts. It has been inspiring to witness all the cultural developments lately, with the new performing-arts center, etc. It seems that people really want to tout the culinary and creative merits of the town, which can only be good for artists and musicians. It’s also nice living in KC as a musician because it’s less of a pressure situation monetarily than a lot of bigger cities, and there’s a lot of inspiration to be found if you look past your own navel.
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Hidden Pictures
What’s new?
Just released our third album, Rainbow Records.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Couplecore.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The ACBs because they try really hard. Ghosty because they put out a great record this year. Fullbloods because they run our record label, and we won’t get paid if we say anything bad about them. The Caves because they’re our kin. And all the other ones because they’ll secretly hate us if we leave them off this list.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Tie between the Brick and RecordBar. Sorta like trying to pick your favorite daughter.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
Mostly the fountains. We just love looking at the fountains. I wish we had more fountains.
The Caves
What’s new?
Finishing up details on our first full-length album to be released soon through Golden Sound Records.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We made our own video for the track ”Liars,” which was included on a joint compilation of local bands from the Record Machine and Golden Sound called
Secret Handshakes.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
We’re an indie-bred Midwestern pop group.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We’re biased toward Thee Water MoccaSins because our standby bassist [John Bersuch] is the drummer; Hidden Pictures because Michelle is [Caves member] David’s sister; and Conquerors because Jake recently joined them onstage as percussionist.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
We simply have deep roots in Kansas City as friends and musicians. It’s all borne out of the fact that we’re geographically isolated, and we’ve always had to come up with ways to keep ourselves entertained and culturally satisfied. For us, it’s making up songs and setting up shows and issuing recordings as often as possible.
The ACBs
What’s new?
We’ve been on the road a lot. Not playing a ton of shows necessarily, but instead using travel as a team-building exercise. That’s been our focus for the last year.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We’ve just finished mixing our third record. What we’re going to do with it now is a mystery to all of us.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
We’d like it to be heard as music stripped of testosterone.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
The Brick, Davey’s and RecordBar are great, but it’s nice to get off the grid sometimes and set up somewhere different. We had a blast playing at Harling’s awhile ago.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Fear, and maybe sloth, have kept us around. It’s very easy to live in Kansas City, and no one really gives you a hard time about being poor.
Also nominated: Capybara
ROCK
Soft Reeds
What’s new?
Had some nice TV placements this year. Been working on some interesting projects outside of the strictly musical side of the band. Writing a lot, trying to remove the music and lyrics from My Fair Lady in hopes of turning it back into Pygmalion. We’ve almost finished the follow-up to Soft Reeds Are Bastards. It’s turning out more manic than the last one was, with a touch of Nigerian influence in a weird way. I’m very proud of it.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
They wouldn’t. But it isn’t a perfect world, so I hope they say things about arrogant and nervy world-influenced post-punk. I also hope they say things like, “The greatest and most wonderful thing that ever happened to me was hearing this, and that includes the birth of my children.” They could also say things like, “I thought I knew what happiness was. No. Only Soft Reeds can give happiness. What a fool I’ve been. My life has been for naught.”
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Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
The Caves are the best band in KC. Cowboy Indian Bear, Fullbloods, Ghosty, Margo May, Thee Water MoccaSins, Katlyn Conroy, Motorboater, Hidden Pictures, Ad Astra Arkestra, Capybara, Dead Girls … everyone is amazing. No one sucks. We all win. Well done, everyone.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
I guess we’re partial to RecordBar. It’s owned by friends, the sound is always good, the crowd reliable, the food smashing, and the booze cheap. The Brick and Riot Room are great spots as well. We’re usually in one of those three rooms.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
I love Kansas City because of the people, the artists, all of these great minds that work so hard to turn KC into a “legitimate scene.” The problem is that I keep hearing people talk about this nebulous goal of being a “legitimate scene.” It’s difficult and kind of sad to see how hard people are working to build something great, juxtaposed with how little of a shit the average Kansas Citian seems to give about what’s going on here. We treat our news anchors, athletes, chefs and business owners with reverence, but treat the people who make up our music scene like they’ll be delivering our next pizza.
Having ranted, however, I think the music coming out of KC right now is phenomenal, and regardless of whether or not this city acknowledges us, I’m proud of how far these performers have come and amazed at how each new band that emerges seems a little better than the last one. KC is having a little golden age right now, and I love being around for it. Also, the rent is cheap.
Cherokee Rock Rifle
What’s new?
We’ve just celebrated playing music together now for two years! That’s thrilling! It’s hotter than the Devil’s panties where we’ve been practicing for the last 15 months, so we’ve grown fairly accustomed to three- to four-hour-long rehearsals in nothing but our boxer shorts mostly. We just wrapped up tracking with Chris Cosgrove for our upcoming release, set tentatively for early fall 2012. We’re excited to be getting some new songs out there for everyone to hear. Our first single from the upcoming EP is out as of July 27 and called “Dead City Girl.” It focuses on the thrill of finding perfect black leather love in a big city full of hopeless romanticism.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Well, we all pretty much agree that in “a perfect world” a band like ours would most likely have been detained on some account of reckless prevarication by the powers that be. However, we like to think our sound is derivative of some classic rock meets post-’90s. A sound centered around BIGG GUITAR RIFF, punk-centric vocals, and Kansas City’s creamiest rhythm section.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
The truth is, we haven’t played a venue we haven’t enjoyed. Steve and Shawn and the entire staff at RecordBar have been amazing to us. The Riot Room is almost like playing a house party for us, and we certainly love to lose our minds there with all of our hardest rocking pals and lady pals. Sherri at the Brick was cool as can be when we played there with Howard Iceberg. Hell, the Boobie Trap in Topeka almost got the best of us. But I think we have to say Michelle and Mokie at Davey’s Uptown really make us feel like rock stars. When there’s a couple of cases of beer in a cooler with a bottle of Beam on top of it waiting for you in the green room, it just says, “Welcome home … now PARTY HARD!” That’s the way into our hearts (shallow as they may be).
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What do you like about Kansas City as a music town?
Aside from all of us being old now, we pretty much agree that Kansas City is an exciting place to be involved in music. I mean, it really always has had a healthy music scene, but it certainly is becoming a bedrock for so many emerging and polished acts. This is, of course, in addition to so many other arts. We are proud to have found so many friends to play with here, and I don’t think we would, or ever will, consider moving this band anywhere. We intend to shake KC for a good while. Just watch, hear and don’t forget to PARTY HARD!
Cowboy Indian Bear
What’s new?
We’ve enjoyed a more leisurely summer than usual but will be touring out East and back in August. We recently performed at the Crossroads Summer Block Party with our friends. It was radical.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We’re nearing completion of our second album. It’s currently in final mixes with our engineer-producer Joshua Browning. We’re looking forward to releasing it before the end of 2012. We have some videos and other fun stuff on the horizon as well.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
They would describe us for who we are rather than who or what we remind them of. Hopefully our new album will aid in that.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
RecordBar, hands down. It’s been too long since we’ve played there, though.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
We’re not from Kansas City proper (Lawrence-based), and I think that’s what has been so wonderful — this city has embraced Cowboy Indian Bear in a real way. Every time we play here, I get to meet a person or two who seem to be genuinely engaged with our music. There is a communal aspect to what goes on in Kansas City music and culture, and it’s good to be a part of that fabric. I love it.
Muscle Worship
What’s new?
Putting out a full-length piece of vinyl this fall.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Handsomely ridiculous. Ridiculously handsome.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Wouldn’t kiss Mouthbreathers on the lips, but they know how to rock. Ad Astra Arkestra are damn fine kissers. Nature Boys, oh yeah!
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Studded Bird (R.I.P.)
What do you like about KC as a music town?
They still like punk music there. It’s big enough to hide a DIY scene in its sweaty armpit.
The Dead Girls
What’s new?
We released a 7-inch single at the beginning of the year that featured a song we recorded with Justin Pierre (singer of Motion City Soundtrack) as the B-side. The A-side, “She Laughed a Little,” has been getting a lot of play on local stations. We have been working on and off on our third full-length album,
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Fade In/Fade Out, for the past couple of years, and it’s finally being mixed by our best man behind the board, Chris Cosgrove. We’re hoping to have it out this fall.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
A loud and melodic melding of the Beach Boys, Thin Lizzy and Swervedriver.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
We currently have the most solid crop of bands in the Lawrence-KC area that we have seen in some time, so it’s pretty much impossible to give everyone the recognition they deserve. For a while, it seemed like the public’s waning interest in live music negatively affected the quality of live music we were getting around here. But I think it’s gotten to the point where artists who really love and appreciate music have decided to not give up and to push their passions even harder. I think after years of a pretty harsh musical climate in KC, we are at the dawn of a bona fide resurgence in our live-music scene.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
I think the main reason is simply that KC allows for affordable, comfortable living in a place where the arts are extremely prevalent. It’s a great happy medium. For example, if you go out to L.A. or New York to pursue anything, that one thing has to be your focus or it’s not going to happen. All of the Dead Girls have multifaceted interests, and living in places like Lawrence or KC allows us all to pursue many of those things comfortably.
Thee Water MoccaSins
What’s new?
Arguing about whether or not to do a Kickstarter campaign to raise money to release our debut on vinyl. The digital release is available on our site at theewatermoccasins.com.
In a perfect world, how would music critics describe your band?
Fractal pop or electro-psych
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Conquerors. They are our brethren in psychedelia.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
RecordBar. Great sound and sight lines. Doesn’t hurt that one of our members is the owner.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Our guitarist [Billy Smith] moved to New York last October. He’s touring with Slash right now and will be out with Smashing Pumpkins later in the year as a crew member. The rest of us have family and jobs here. Its central location, affordability and support for the arts are the main reasons. Thee Water MoccaSins was started as a project with no expectations of “chasing the rock-and-roll dream.” It is purely a means for expression and joy for each of us.
SINGER-SONGWRITER (FEMALE)
Amy Farrand
What’s new?
I am no longer playing in any bands (for now) and am concentrating on my solo work. It’s time. I’m promoting my EP that was released this year, Amy Farrand <3s You, and I’m producing Weirdo Wednesday Supper Club at Davey’s Uptown. The show will be three years old in December!
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
Americana with a jagged edge. Make sure your tetanus shot is up-to-date.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
There are several nominated acts that I really like. More than one in some categories. I actually had a hard time voting this year.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
Davey’s Uptown Ramblers Club. In addition to running my weekly show there, I have played in 28 bands over the years, and almost every one of them has played that venue. It’s a home away from home.
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What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
It’s easy to keep a home base here. It’s a pretty inexpensive place to live. That’s important when you have an artist’s income. We are also centrally located, so hopping in the van and traveling to play is quite a bit easier. It’s roughly the same distance east or west.
Katlyn Conroy
What’s new?
I finally lost my tour virginity! Kind of. Wait, this sounds wrong. What I mean is that I took my solo project, La Guerre, out on the road for the first time ever. I had two weeks of ocean, cheap beer, Spanish moss, psychics, and the best curry I’ve ever had in my life. Even with the good fortune of being able to tour extensively with Cowboy Indian Bear, doing it solo was really a life-changing experience. I genuinely didn’t expect that it’d be so different. And I got to bring my boyfriend with me, which was a nice little vacation on the side. The Cowboys would never allow it!
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
As of July 17, I released my first EP since my 2009 full-length, I Think I’ll Stay Inside. It’s called Savannah > Jacksonville and kind of showcases my experimental nature in the past few years. I’ve been really turning more toward an electronic feel, and less folksy as I had previously done. The EP is released in anticipation of my upcoming sophomore album, titled Sapphires. I’m hoping it will bring out a far more rounded sound than I’ve previously shown.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I wish they would listen to my lyrics more. The few times someone has come up and complimented me on them because they were truly listening, it felt amazing. But musically … fluffy, pure, pretty, smooth. Imagine taking a balloon and filling it with glitter and syrup and then popping it in slow motion. But not like a pink balloon. More of a somber-looking one. Maybe maroon.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I feel like I should say people who I don’t just know personally and want people to vote for. But the fact is, one of the reasons I’m friends with these people is that I admire the shit out of them. So, here I go. The ACBs, always. They put a smile on my face, especially in times that I’ve been out on the road with them. I love seeing how new audiences react to their catchy upbeat tunes. CS Luxem, ’cause he’s way cool, and the first time I saw him, he was projecting a “First Aid for Cats” video behind him while he played. Motorboater, because Dan is my electro-pop dream come true. And Stik Figa, Fourth of July, Quiet Corral, Grisly Hand. Did I forget anyone? Oh yes, Cowboy mutha****ing Indian Bear.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
RecordBar. Four words: gouda-black-bean dip.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
KC is one of the largest cities with the tightest communities, in my opinion. Even as a Lawrence girl at heart, KC, I love you!
Sara Swenson
What’s new?
Well, I’m finding myself in the U.K., as of late. This is where personal life influences music — I’m recently engaged to my fella in England, so for the time being, we’re bouncing between London and Belfast, mostly. I’m trying to make the most of it, write new tunes and play wherever I can scare up gigs while I’m here on an entertainer visa. Rest assured, though, Kansas City is still my home base. I’ll be back again soon.
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In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I’d like them to find my music interesting, engaging and beautiful all at once. Evolving, but a place they want to land and stay for a good while.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
You know, RecordBar never disappoints. The sound is good, and Steve and the guys there know what they’re doing and do it well. How can you argue with that? Though, as an addendum, having the opportunity to open for Jakob Dylan at the Midland last November was pretty stellar. Wow, what a place to play.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
There’s a purity to the music in Kansas City that you don’t always find in larger music cities where the primary intent is to make it big. The musicians in Kansas City are wonderful people, a very talented, hardworking and loyal bunch. We support each other and push each other, but we don’t limit ourselves to play only in the schoolyard. It gives me great joy to step into other cities and proudly represent our fair town.
Also nominated: Margo May
SINGER-SONGWRITER (MALE)
Clay Hughes
What’s new?
I released my new album, Four, with Sharp County Records on July 24.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
0100101000101100101 (in a perfect world we’d all be robots).
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
Even though I’m not an MC, I think I’ve found the most welcoming people to be the hip-hop scene. There is a lot of support for each other and too many talented MCs to list.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
Czar and Riot, hands down, are my two favorite places to play. They’ve been overly helpful and supportive since I’ve started my career in KC. Tim, Dallas and everyone they employ deserve a huge thanks for what they do … and the amazing beer selection.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
Well, sadly, I will be moving soon. I love KC with all my heart, but I think it’s time to move around a bit. I have a two-year plan to give the East Coast a try. However, it’s also my intention to return to KC down the road. The music and art scene are incredible here in Kansas City. They keep getting better, too.
John Velghe
What’s new?
We released a full-length album on Lakeshore Records in March 2012 called Don’t Let Me Stay. Two days after it came out, we played three showcases at South By Southwest, including a couple with Alejandro Escovedo, Peter Buck and Mike Mills of R.E.M., Tommy Stinson, Lenny Kaye and some other amazing bands. We made great friends and a lot of new fans.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
We’re doing a brief East Coast tour in July and August, including the legendary Asbury Park, New Jersey; and New York City. Then we’ll be coming back to play a few shows in KC. After that, we’ve got some dates for the southern United States planned for the fall. Then more touring after the holidays.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I would hope they would describe these songs and these musicians the way people from the Midwest are described: honest, earnest, hardworking and compelling.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
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I’m a fan of the Caves, Katy & Go-Go, Diverse, Hipshot Killer. I think Deco Auto is cool.
What’s your favorite KC venue, and why?
Really RecordBar is the only venue in Kansas City that has reached out to us, asked us to play there, and really worked hard with us to build successful shows.
What keeps you in KC rather than moving to a bigger music city?
When you look at the big picture, we get the most of our music placement, record and merchandise sales, show offers, radio play, etc. from outside KC. Our label is in Los Angeles, our booking contacts are in Austin and New York, we’ve shipped more records to Spain than KC, and our placement offers come from L.A. and New York. So KC being an inexpensive place to live as an artist, and centrally located, is a huge plus. And — honestly — I love people and places here. We have that Midwestern sensibility that doesn’t exist anywhere else. Thankfully, KC is starting to see a growth in purchasers of creative talent because that’s so important to all kinds of artists, not just musicians.
Lennon Bone
What’s new?
I haven’t released anything since
Lost/Accolades, but I’m working on a new project. I have the songs basically laid out, but I’m still ironing out lyrical content and trying to track some amazing guest musicians for the deal. I’m also working on a few duo collaborations. My buddy Scotty Bracket (Murder By Death, formerly of Okkervil River) and I are recording an EP while we’re on tour. We’ve been making ideas on our iPhones and tracking on my laptop in the van and dressing rooms and what not. The other duo project I’m working on is with Jonny Universe of Antennas Up. We’re calling it Alaskan Fur. It’s sort of a post-rock, electronic deal. Nearly all instrumental.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music?
I really don’t care how people describe it; I just hope they like it. Writing stuff as “Lennon Bone” is always second to Ha Ha Tonka. I wouldn’t call it a side project because I love doing it as much as the Tonka stuff, but I do feel like I’m still finding my “sound” for the songs. I’m just lucky enough to be in a band that gets to tour for a living, and I can just write and grow this project as it comes.
Who are some of the other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I’m a big Hidden Pictures fan. Richard and I did some writing together recently and sparked up a friendship. That guy is super-talented, and hilarious to boot. I love the ACBs. That band makes great records. One of my favorite local acts, hands down. Clay Hughes is a really close friend of mine and another nominee for male singer-songwriter. We’ve been doing some smear campaigns on Facebook at each other to keep it fun.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
RecordBar. Easily. Steve is a true pro and has put together a great room. There’s a reason that up-and-coming bands play there. However, we need a good midlevel venue in KC. Like a 500- to 700-capacity room. I feel like that’s what’s keeping us from having a lot of cool bands stop in. They go to Lawrence instead because they have more options in that range.
What do you like about KC as a music town?
It’s a very connected scene. There seems to be a lot of love and support for one another, and I think that’s an amazing aspect to what we have going on here. I used to get pissed that more bands didn’t get out and do the touring thing, but the more I’ve been on the road, the more I’ve understood why they don’t. It’s expensive, it’s daunting, and it takes years to cultivate a following. There’s a lot of sacrifice that goes into making a band successful on a national level, and that’s just not realistic for some people. There’s nothing wrong with being a great local band, and we have a lot of those.
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Thom Hoskins
What’s new?
I have been using Tuesday nights at Czar to try out new material. This summer, I joined the band Hidden Pictures as a lead guitar player, where I can really lose myself and just play what’s needed for each song. Recently, I started work as a session guitarist-arranger for an artist at Weights and Measures Soundlab, owned and operated by KC sound engineer Duane Trower.
Any recent releases or anything on the horizon?
This summer, I self-released an EP entitled Still Feeling Bronze. Sometime this fall, I plan to release a split EP with local songwriter Doby Watson. Early this winter, I plan to self-release a full-length album.
In a perfect world, how would critics describe your music and band?
My music is like a soundtrack to an old film that everyone can remember watching once but has long since forgotten the plot. One might describe the music I create as the sound of old melodies juxtaposed with modern life. Another might describe the way I write songs as wordplay riding atop cascading melodies that get wedged into your unconscious.
Who are some other nominated acts you’re a fan of?
I’m a fan of Adam Lee & the Dead Horse Sound Company. The band’s classic country sound can transport you to another time and place, like forgotten roadside dives with bright neon lights glaring on weathered old faces.
What’s your favorite KC venue?
My favorite local venue is the FOKL Gallery because the people there are creative and thoughtful. When I play at FOKL, I feel appreciated, welcome and free to express myself.
