The Pitch Music Showcase 2013
The end of the year is when people tend to look back on the preceding 12 months and take stock of things: Lists are made; goals are set. That kind of reflection is more of a late-summer thing here at The Pitch music desk. That’s because we’re thinking about this issue and its corresponding events: The Pitch Music Showcase on Friday, August 2, and The Pitch Music Awards on Sunday, August 11.
So what’s happened in a year? In Westport, the Beaumont Club closed — frown emoticon. But an all-ages venue, Art Closet Studios, has sprouted a few blocks away. And the district now boasts a new record store, Mills Record Co., which is killing it, hawking tasty new vinyl and hosting in-stores.
Remember when Jardine’s shuttered, and people were fretting that there weren’t enough places for jazz musicians to play? That seems rather preposterous these days, doesn’t it? In addition to long-running joints like the Majestic, the Phoenix and the Blue Room, there are now two jazz clubs downtown — two! — that were not here a year ago: the Green Lady Lounge (in the old Balanca’s space) and the Kill Devil Club (on the western edge of the Power & Light District). They’re both great. And shout-outs to Take Five Coffee + Bar, which is keeping jazz alive all the way out in deep Johnson County, and the Broadway Jazz Club, which is soon to open in the old Outabounds space in midtown.
Kanrocksas returned. Then it imploded. Now there’s a lawsuit. Bummer for all involved — except for those of us who get to report on it.
In Lawrence, there has been a bit of an exodus. Three of the college town’s anchor acts — Hospital Ships, Fourth of July, Rooftop Vigilantes — are packing up and moving to bigger markets. But already some excellent musicians are stepping up to fill the void. Two of them you’ll find in our Music Showcase Emerging Act category: Y[our] Fri[end] and Oils.
Since the Emerging Act nomination last year of the St. Joseph grunge-punk trio Radkey, they’ve appeared in The New York Times and The Guardian (in the U.K.), and on the cover of NME. Also flirting with national attention: Gee Watts, the East Side rapper who recently had a track with rap It boy Kendrick Lamar, and the Beautiful Bodies, whose dance-punk songs earned them top prize and a Warped Tour slot at the 2012 Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands (aka the biggest battle-of-the-bands contest in the world). That’s to say nothing of the other acts in town making music that warrants an audience outside the region.
But in a way, all that is antithetical to the spirit of the Music Showcase and The Pitch Music Awards. It’s about celebrating what’s going on here right now and giving curious music fans an opportunity to enjoy a smorgasbord of local talent for an evening. So read through the interviews that follow, go to the Showcase Friday in Westport, and vote for your favorite acts online if you haven’t already. Then come out to the PMAs Sunday, August 11, at the Uptown Theater, and help us wish the scene another happy new year.
AMERICANA/BLUEGRASS
Dollar Fox
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re continuing to write and evolve our sound. Every writing-production period has yielded an interesting variation on the core songs that Tommy and Justin bring to the band. “Close to Home” stayed very close to the folk-singer style and “Little Mother’s Things I Am Keeping” had us add a good bit of rock to the sound. Our current new material is a continuation of that arc.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A solid rock band with roots embedded in folk and Americana.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We love the collaboration and willingness of bands to play genre-bending shows. As our audience trends a bit older, we’d like to see more early shows.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The Silver Maggies and the Latenight Callers both put out some stunningly great albums.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Be/Non and Dream Wolf during Homeguard Fest at RecordBar. They absolutely killed it.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
This is an impossible question.
John Velghe & the Prodigal Sons
What’s new and what’s next?
We released a single in the fall of 2012, and we’ve been writing and working on new songs for our second full-length album. Right now, the plan is to start recording in late fall 2013. As always, we don’t control our destiny, and the plans are subject to the will of others. I’m planning a little solo motorcycle tour through the South for early fall. Just me and my guitar on a motorbike. It sort of fits the motif of the new album and will be a test run for future small tours.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
The earnest pop impulse at the heart of rock music written and played to make you forget whatever was on your mind before the first note.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I’m liking the diversity of people who are getting involved in local music lately. Not strictly bands but radio stations like 90.9 the Bridge, new venues like Woodside, different civic events, art galleries, schools. All kinds of people from different parts of the city are becoming part of our music scene, and it shows that you can be a part of a music community, and there’s no requirement that you be in a band. When you look at self-sustaining music scenes outside of KC, that’s something they all share. NYC, New Orleans, Portland, Nashville, L.A., Austin — they involve more people than the band members passing the same $7 back and forth among one another.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
So far, the best album I’ve heard this year is Dwight Yoakam’s Three Pears. Technically it came out last year, but I just picked it up in January.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Willie Nile at SXSW. I’m actively lobbying them to come to KC. You watch that band play in a bar, and there is as much passion and energy and honesty as any show you see in an arena. Willie’s been a favorite songwriter for a while now, but that was the first time I’ve seen him play live, and he made me want to be Willie Nile if I grow up.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
I climbed in the van back in March and found a copy of the Tiny Horse album on the console, and it made me really happy. We played it on the road home, and I was watching these military jets passing over the highway while listening to that album and just went somewhere else in my head for a while. Also the Katy Guillen Trio; they are three very good musicians and they are really compelling live.
Olassa
What’s new and what’s next?
Recording the final tracks on our first LP, entitled You Can Still Be a Diamond. What’s next: Touring to support the album release. (Not to mention the next LP is already written! Stay tuned!)
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Three-piece indie folk. Three-part harmonies. Think Gillian Welch meets Townes Van Zandt + tuba and accordion!
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We love the KC music scene because of the high number of great bands writing cool music, and the majority of the sound engineers we have encountered are professional, on-point and top-notch.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
We can’t seem to get the self-titled Mount Moriah vinyl off our record player.
The best show I/we saw this year:
We played a show with the Hips and thought they were fantastic! Also, catching a Silver Maggies show is very cool.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
What’s not to love about seeing the Kansas City Bear Fighters. Stupendous!
The Silver Maggies
What’s new and what’s next?
We are taking the summer off from gigging to add new songs to the set. Looking to travel a bit and play a few shows out of town this fall. The Maggies have a few new songs in the works, including one penned by Patrick Deveny called “Nightmares Do Come True.” Still headed in the murder-ballad storytelling direction. Working on a weekend trip to play in Nashville later this year; we hope to record some new songs there, too.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
People call us gothic country or high-country desert noir. Our record, My Pale Horse, is definitely desert driving music. We tried to make it have plenty of open space and to feel expansive at times, like a western film.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
KC has tons of great bands across all types of genres and styles. Sadly, we don’t seem to have a lot fans going out to shows. The vast majority of our metro lives in the suburbs and has suburban tastes, meaning classic rock and modern country. They don’t seem to care or even realize how many great bands are in this town. It’s especially perplexing to me because local radio in KC, at a community and commercial level, is taking the time to support local bands. My friends in other cities aren’t so lucky.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
There have been several. Favorites so far are the Dead Voices release, the new Pedaljets and the Latenight Callers.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Ian McLagan out at Danny’s was wonderful. His voice was wonderful. He was charming, funny and great in an intimate environment. The highlight of the year so far for me was an impromptu Expassionates set at Coda a few months ago.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Crushes on the Expassionates, Dead Voices and Sons of Great Dane continue to grow unabated. Dead Voices killed it at their CD-release show at RecordBar. They didn’t miss a single measure the whole night.
The Blackbird Revue
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve been playing a lot of shows this summer, including some outdoor shows, private parties and poolside concerts. We’ll be building a home studio this fall and working on a new, hopefully full-length album.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Worn, comfortable Americana. We play country-inspired ballads and adrenaline-ridden, soaring anthems, fueled by ear-catching harmonies.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We made an intentional decision to be more involved in the local music scene this year. We’ve discovered some amazing new bands and made some great friends.
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The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Lord Huron, Lonesome Dreams.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
We just discovered Cherokee Rock Rifle this year and are absolutely in love with them. Dirty, heavy riff-rock with raging vocals. What’s not to love?
The Grisly Hand
What’s new and what’s next?
We released our first full-length album, Country Singles, which is beginning to see some national airplay.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Rock and roll, pop, country and soul. Missouri. A modern and energetic take on what makes these things great in the first place, but without obligation to some of their more retro constraints.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
KC music’s greatest strength is its diversity and collaborative spirit, but we need to learn how to better grow an audience, both locally and broadly. If Radkey can do it …
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The ACBs, Little Leaves
The best show I/we saw this year:
Calexico at the Granada
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The ACBs, Bloodbirds, the Architects, Metatone, Radkey
The Clementines
What’s new and what’s next?
A month ago we released our debut, self-titled album, and we just played in St. Louis opening up for the Spin Doctors. The plan is to keep playing shows anywhere and everywhere we can. We’d like to take a mini tour soon and record a follow-up EP as well. We’re ready for anything!
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
This is a tough question. We call ourselves an alternative blues, rock and folk-pop band with hints of jazz and soul. We’re really difficult to place into any one specific genre. We’re a bit of everything. But regardless of style or influence, all of our songs are filled with sincere passion. That’s a must.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There’s not a whole lot to not like about the KC music scene. This city is overflowing with wonderful music, and everyone is so supportive of one another. Love it.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
A few of our favorite albums to be released this year are King Animal by Soundgarden and Heartthrob by Tegan and Sara. We’re excited to check out the new Trampled Under Foot album, too!
The best show I/we saw this year:
Trampled Under Foot at BB’s.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
We’re big fans of Trampled Under Foot; Cadillac Flambe; and our very own Stephanie Williams’ other band, the Katy Guillen Trio. There’s tons of good music in this city, and we’re so happy to be a small part of it.
Also nominated: Tiny Horse
AVANT-GARDE
Continents
What’s new and what’s next?
Finishing up a new record; working to get that completed, pressed and released by someone, somewhere. Been busy playing drums in my other band, the Conquerors.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Home-recorded psych-pop music for the ever-exploring minds
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Liking: There are some really great bands playing right now, cool new event spaces and rad record stores popping up. Not liking: Hard to make good dough. Got no ocean.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The latest White Fence album, Cyclops Reap. The dude always nails it.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Austin Psych Fest was so good. All outdoors on a large ranch in Austin. Camping, beers, good tunes, good people. Also, Deerhoof at RecordBar for Middle of the Map Fest was amazing.
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What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Bloodbirds are up there, for sure. Shy Boys and Expo ’70 are close seconds.
CS Luxem
What’s new and what’s next?
Releasing an EP of songs I recorded in Lawrence at SeedCo Studios on July 16. Starting a six-week U.S. tour with Julie Byrne, in Buffalo, New York, on July 17.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Psychedelic soul
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I’m forever in love with FOKL and Front/Space.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
“Think Tone” by Baby Birds Don’t Drink Milk
The best show I/we saw this year:
KC Psychfest 2013
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Metatone, Bloodbirds, Scammers, Expo ’70
Expo ’70
What’s new and what’s next?
I have a split record of solo material being released this month on Debacle Records with Plankton Wat, out of Portland, Oregon. The trio is recording for a split LP to be released on Monofonus Press out of Austin, Texas. A label out of Brazil will release Virtually From the Unknown on CD and a very limited LP we recorded with Ashley Miller a couple of years ago that features my two-drummer lineup. I am performing solo in September at this year’s Hopscotch Music Festival, in Raleigh, North Carolina; other acts include Spiritualized, Merzbow, Grouper, Adult, Wolf Eyes and Kurt Vile, to name a few.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Psychedelic doom
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Seems the same as always, just is what it is.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
So far it’s a tie between Darkthrone, The Underground Resistance, and Purson, The Circle and the Blue Door.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Sleep, when I played with them at the 35 Denton festival, in Texas.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Inspired School of Astral Music
Jorge Arana Trio
What’s new and what’s next?
Recently we’ve been working on some recordings. Getting ready to do a 7-inch split with our good friends Ambulants that we’re quite excited about. It’s being put out by Bridal Horse Records, out of St. Charles, Illinois. We’ll also be doing some recordings for a new EP that we’re shooting to release later this year, and we’ve got some audiovisual stuff in the works.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
You know the scene in Get Him to the Greek where he smokes the entire jeffrey to the dome? Yeah, well, it’s kinda like that, [or] a shit-ton of crickets conversing, maybe a bit angrily.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Honestly there is so much talent in every type of genre of music and arts here in KC that the one thing I wish I could see change in our community would be the amount of investing industry focusing attention here. But I’m liking the fact that people are coming out to see some relatively difficult instrumental music.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Murray Lightburn put out a new song/video called “Motherfuckers.” Been listening to that last Tame Impala album from the end of last year. Recently heard Animals as Leaders for the first time — digging it!
The best show I/we saw this year:
The David Hasselhoff on Acid show out in Lawrence, with Dillinger Escape Plan, was dope. Got to see the Zombies a couple of times when we were down in Austin this year. Didn’t expect that to ever happen.
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What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
At the Left Hand of God, Ambulants, Clairaudients
Your Reflection
What’s new and what’s next?
Our new record, Psychic Fayre, is in production. Playing more shows.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Experimental psych funk
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
It’s great to see more DIY/all-ages venues cropping up and people pushing sonic limits. Can’t think of anything we don’t like … it is what it is.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Baris Manço, 2023 reissue on Guerssen Records; Circuit Rider on Número Group
The best show I/we saw this year:
KC Psychfest
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Conquerors, J. Ashley Miller and Expo ’70
Metatone
What’s new and what’s next?
The now is always new, and what’s next cannot be known.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
We play in the other-world beat style, with a lyrical emphasis on exorcising attention from the mind-body and cultivating delight.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The return of restrain.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The silence in between noises, IRL
The best show I/we saw this year:
Tatsuya Nakatani at the Laundromat
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
TIME GATE I.S.A.M.
BLUES
Grand Marquis
What’s new and what’s next?
We have a new release called Blues and Trouble. Doing a bunch of traveling and getting into some new markets this year. Mainly we have stuck to the Midwest, and this year we will continue to do that, but we are doing a week and a half in the Southeast and working on a West Coast trip for the winter months. We are getting great responses on the record in lots of new places, so hopefully that pans out!
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
American roots leaning on blues and jazz, pulling from our Kansas City roots and heavily influenced by Memphis and New Orleans.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The diversity is the best part. Great music across all genres. If you want to work as a musician, there are plenty of places to play. We have always been centrally located to get to all the hot spots around the country. The tools are there; you just have to work for it, but that’s kind of a Midwestern attitude. Right? On the negative side, we get to go to many different cities where they have capitalized on their music heritage. There is music tourism and respect for the heritage. KC does some of that, but it would be super to see the city do some things like other cities have.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
We love the new Dr. John record — modern while keeping a vintage sound.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Our friends from Minneapolis, Davina and the Vagabonds, are a must-see when they come through.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Well that’s a no-brainer: Be/Non!
Jason Vivone and the Billy Bats
What’s new and what’s next?
We are in preproduction for our new CD. The feedback from our last one, Lather Rinse Repeat, was so strong that we want to really hone this material. We are workshopping the new tunes kind of like you would a play. You cast the roles. What instruments can play what character? Then we try the tunes out at a gig and gauge reactions, and then go back to the lab and tighten things up. I confess: We’ve been sneaky, though. We may introduce the song as a cover — “Oh, this is by James Carr” — just to really get your true response.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Either Die Hard meets Elmore James or the shuffle on Ry Cooder’s iPod.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
KC audiences are very loyal to KC bands. If they love you, they will come back and bring friends. Our local folks really want to see musicians put their own signature on the music they’re playing. I think we need to always be converting and bringing friends who’ve not seen live music before.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The reissue of Albert King’s I’ll Play the Blues for You on Stax. Just can’t be beat.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I will admit some bias because we were a part of it, but the 100-year birthday tribute to Woody Guthrie that KKFI 90.1 put on was one of the best. The Bats and I love to play with other bands on the bill. Seems we gig so often, we can’t just dig the show with a drink in our hand anymore. It was great to see such a variety of acts all playing those great songs.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
I run into the Rev. Carl Butler and think, “Does KC know what a treasure that guy is?” Please, if you haven’t yet, check out the Gospel Lounge show he does at Knuckleheads on Wednesdays.
Katy Guillen
What’s new and what’s next?
The Katy Guillen Trio has recorded a couple of songs that we’ll be releasing online as singles, come August. We plan on completing recording for an album by early 2014.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
We have a soulful rock sound. Influences include Heartless Bastards, Jimi Hendrix and Patty Griffin.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I dig the Grisly Hand’s new record.
The best show I/we saw this year:
We enjoyed the Tedeschi Trucks Band at Grinders in June.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Silver Maggies put on a nice tight show, and their new record is good, too.
Samantha Fish
What’s new and what’s next?
I have a new record coming out this September. It’s called Black Wind Howlin’. Our release party is at the VooDoo Lounge on September 6. Other than that, we are touring a lot. There will be fewer and fewer KC shows this year, but we are definitely making them count when we get them.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Bluesy music. It’s not pure blues by any means, but it has the feel. Working our way into Americana/roots, but still it has a harder edge.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There are always new acts emerging. It seems that the talent pool runs very deep. Just when you think that’s all KC has to offer, someone else pops out of the woodwork.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Tedeschi Trucks Band and the Revivalists sounded killer at Crossroads a few weeks ago. I always love it when my friends come to town. Paul Thorn, Mike Zito, Tab Benoit at Knuckleheads are always favs of mine. Participating in the Tom Hall Benefit last August was pretty epic as well.
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Trampled Under Foot
What’s new and what’s next?
We just released our first studio album with Concord Records, entitled Badlands, and we are touring all over the country and Scandinavia this summer/fall to share the word of TUF.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Hard blues. I like to say it’s like Freddie King, Led Zeppelin and Etta James wrapped into our original material.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
As far as the KC blues scene goes, I think it’s great! We travel all over the world and get to meet a lot of musicians and music supporters. Kansas City has a very wonderful scene, and it’s more like a family. I’ve always felt welcome at every jam I’ve been to over the last 15 years that I’ve been attending/hosting, and the fans are so loyal to music in general, not just specific bands.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Curtis Salgado, Soul Shot
The best show I/we saw this year:
Curtis Salgado — he’s amazing. We got to see them at a festival in Norway recently, and they just killed!
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Old No. 5s are really great! Great songs, great musicians, great cats!
Jeremy Butcher & the Bail Jumpers
What’s new and what’s next?
Our first studio recording is what our focus is on right now. This project has been in the works for two years, and we have been so busy touring and playing shows, it has been on the back burner for too long. We have written almost all the material for a full-length album and are working on arrangements. Once the recording is done, we are going to focus on doing more regional and national touring, and getting into some festivals.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Rocking blues, with funk influences.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
In the blues world, anyway, there is tremendous opportunity in KC. We have been building a loyal following in this town. I have lived a lot of places, and the scene for blues here in KC is great. KC has produced some top-flight international musicians, and so we feel at home here in KC.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I guess it would be best to tell you what is in my CD player right now, and that is the new Rev. Jimmie Bratcher’s album, Secretly Famous. Great diversity and a funky bass player. What more can you ask for? Go buy it!
The best show I/we saw this year:
We got to open up for Trampled Under Fish at Knuckleheads earlier this spring, and the energy was awesome, and the blending of TUF with Samantha Fish was a great thing. Then they let me jam with them for a couple of songs in the encore, which was amazing. We all took our shoes off onstage. The crowd was awesome, and the music was in the moment and from the heart.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
It is really hard to call her local, but Samantha Fish. She has got a great style, and attitude, and is genuine in everything she does. Not to mention she is a shredder on the guitar.
COUNTRY/ROCKABILLY
Adam Lee & the Dead Horse Sound Company
What’s new and what’s next?
I’m in Chicago at the moment. I’ve been asked to join the cast of the Tony Award-winning stage show Million Dollar Quartet. I’m playing Johnny Cash. I’ll be here through the fall playing the Apollo Theater and writing songs for the next album. Miss ya, KC!
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … We play a variety of Americana and roots music with a focus on hardcore, swingin’ honky tonk.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The Kansas City scene is fantastic. It’s such a supportive group of musicians and music fans. You really couldn’t ask for more. And we’ve got some amazing venues!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Daniel Romano’s new album, Come Cry With Me, has been knocking me out. Where did this guy come from?
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
DT and the Shakes, hands-down.
Crybaby Ranch
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re playing a lot more original tunes, we’ve got a kick-ass accordion player onboard, and we’re bound and determined to record our first album this year.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … Countryish-western swingish-rockabillyish
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Liking all the DIY stuff going on and all the diversity and affordability of seeing live local musicians.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
“Is Everyone Here Insane,” Twenty Thousand Strongmen
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Billy Beale Welcome Home Show, the Flatlanders
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Lots, but here are a few we love that are not on the ballot: Rex Hobart and the Honky Tonk Standards, the Electric Lungs, Coyote Bill Boogie Band, Phantoms of the Opry, the Bad Ideas, Cadillac Flambe, Outlaw Jim and the Whiskey Benders.
The Rumblejetts
What’s new and what’s next?
Had a 33-show tour in Europe the last of June and all of July. Sported a new six-song EP called Goin’ to Europe, exclusively for that tour, that will be added on to for a full-length hopefully by winter.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … Rock and roll with a rockabilly coating
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like that it seems that the music, as well as the whole art community, is growing steadily and noticeably so. Also, the shows/festivals that cross genre and draw crowds, like HomeGuard did when everyone was in Austin for SXSW.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Locally, Tiny Horse’s “Ride” is powerful. Nationally, Clutch’s Earth Rocker is amazeballs.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Dollar Fox, Silver Maggies, Architects
St. Dallas & the Sinners
What’s new and what’s next?
We are working on new material and looking to head out throughout the Midwest in current support of our full-length record, Hail Mary.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … Rock and roll
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I think we are liking the more raw sounds we are hearing out there. There seems to be a resurgence in emotion in music and live performance that has been lacking in recent years. More bands and fans seem to care.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Thee Oh Sees’ Floating Coffin, or the Kings of Nuthin’ — any record they’ve made in the past is still my favorite every year.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Wicked at the Fox Theatre in St.Louis — does that count? It’s my honest answer.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
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Cherokee Rock Rifle
Starhaven Rounders
What’s new and what’s next?
We have been recording a few songs with Chris Cosgrove and David Gaume, which you can hear on our website. We just booked three dinner shows at RecordBar, one Friday a month. In September, we are playing at Arrowhead Stadium for a Chiefs game, and October 3 we open for Eli Young Band at Memorial Hall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … From Johnny Cash and Patsy Cline to George Jones and Tammy Wynette, we are a classic country-and-western band.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We really enjoy the diversity of music in Kansas City. All of us are natives and have been part of the scene for a long time, both playing and supporting music.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The Essential Ray Price, all 39 songs
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Grisly Hand
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Caves
The Blue Boot Heelers
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve been looking to play venues that are new to us and with different bands than we have in the past. Recently we played at Californos for the first time. It’s great to play with new bands because that brings in a different audience for us. We have some recording time coming up; looking to play some big shows.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is … Still country as shit
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
That hipsters here still listen to country.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
“Dukes of Hazzard Theme,” Waylon Jennings
The best show I/we saw this year:
Larry and His Flask at the Riot Room
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Phantoms of the Opry
Also nominated: The Nace Brothers
DJ
Brent Tactic
What’s new and what’s next?
Way too many budding relationships to mention. I’m super-busy on the DJ/PR, rep/management, consultant/marketing/blog, curation, etc., tip and really excited about how things are going.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
At times, extremely cutting-edge because I’m a total geek for new sounds. At other times, the retro hug you love to dance the night away to.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The local DJ scene is in an interesting flux. There’s plenty of places to work and get gigs, which is great. The venues allowing full-blown creative DJ expressions is dwindling at an alarming rate, though. Everything feels like it’s gone fairly safe and in a hurry.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Kanye West’s “I’m in It” is probably my current fave. Yeezus so far is my album of the year as well.
The best show I/we saw this year:
James Blake at the Uptown in the spring. Mind-blowing, that guy.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Making Movies. Not only is the music great, they are incredible musicians live and in the studio, and their hustle is completely out of control and extremely motivating. On top of that, they are always giving back to KC in a number of ways. Love those dudes.
DJ G Train
What’s new and what’s next?
I’ve been really focused on booking events outside of the Greater Kansas City area. I’d love to call the KC area home, but I want to be able to DJ in some major markets. I wanna DJ for different crowds and do bigger shows. Right now, the venues are few and far between for hip-hop DJs. So right now, I’ve just been weighing the pros and cons of being a hip-hop DJ living in this area and if it really is possible to make a living here doing what I do.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
I do a lot of different types of DJ sets. Sometimes it’s all house, sometimes it’s all funk. But I love the open-format sets, where you can read the crowd and really get into some dope shit. I’m a hip-hop DJ at heart, so all my sets have the basic elements of turntablism. My favorite sets to do are the performance sets where you can really use your turntables as instruments.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I moved to Lawrence because I feel like they are way more open to “hip hop” DJs and treating us more like artists. I feel like there is a serious void in Kansas City for hip-hop DJs. There’s a stigma, just or unjust, against certain types of music. The most requested music is often the music that clubs don’t want played. The converse is that you find the urban crowds only want to hear what’s on the radio.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
“Tom Ford” and “somewhereinamerica” on the new Jay-Z album are gonna be summer anthems! Magna Carta Holy Grail is best album I’ve heard in years. Made me figure out how to put music on my phone.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Big Boi and Killer Mike at the Granada. Killer Mike and his tour DJ came and rocked the Replay with me.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Abnorm
DJ Kimbarely Legal
What’s new and what’s next?
Janelle Monáe. Innovators are making a comeback, and I want to continue to see artists in all fields who are pushing themselves and the culture around them.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Influenced originally by collecting vinyl and funk. A blend of Afrobeat, salsa, funk, samba and hip-hop culture. Blends DJ dance culture with drum-based dance culture.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
“Toca Flute (Sabo Moombahton Edit),” Carlos Barbosa and BlasterJaxx. I’m kinda obsessed with the flutes I’ve been hearing mixed into electronic music the past few years.
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. The DDBB has been around 30-plus years, and they have so many ideas they can draw on, and it really came through in the way they played together. I had such a great time dancing that I had a huge grin on my face the whole time.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Making Movies + Brent Tactic + B-Stee collaboration and also Sunu (Lawrence)
Mike Scott
What’s new and what’s next?
I’m always up to something. Being the only Billboard reporter in the tristate area, I stay ahead of the curve on music. Also, just recently opened my new DJ school, thedjinstitute.com, teaching turntables and mixing to all ages.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
My style is hip/pop/tech/house.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The KC music scene moves around pretty quick, and I feel that in my line of work, the scene has been a bit watered down by all the new DJs, due to computer software. This is why I started the school to teach the art of turntables. It seems it has been a bit lost and forgotten.
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The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Daft Punk, Random Access Memories. Love this album.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Thievery Corporation at the Midland. Amazing.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Digging on my friend Mac Lethal and all his success and, of course, my good friend Tech N9ne.
Shaun Flo
What’s new and what’s next?
Producing original tracks along with remixes and edits. Next: Stop being lazy and actually release a mix CD.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
As Bruce Lee would say, “Like water, whatever you pour water into, it will take its form.” I have my favorite genres I prefer over others, but every room has a different sound that is needed to make the party happen. So my sound will change in different rooms with different crowds but will always take shape of what is needed to make the party commence. If I had to put it in words, it would be “pop telepathy music with a side of cheese.”
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The choices people have when it’s time to go out. There are so many talented DJs, singers and artists who venues are having perform these days. There is something that will fit your taste or come close to it when you get your dancing shoes on.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Song: Empire of the Sun, “Alive”; Album: Daft Punk, Random Access Memories
The best show I/we saw this year:
Red Bull Thre3Style Qualifier at the Uptown Theater
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Making Movies
Sheppa
What’s new and what’s next?
I’ll be putting out a new series of mixtapes, along with remixes, this summer and an EP in the fall. I am still involved with various parties around town, everything from collaborations with KC’s Quixotic Fusion to special one-off parties like Daft Punk Tribute and Braindead. Plus, my own monthly called BODY2BODY (every first Saturday at the Riot Room), which has been going on three years strong. B2B allows me to bring in outside talent to KC, which will include Classixx, Cashmere Cat and Delorean this fall. In addition, expect to see more video work from me — video promos to full-on music videos.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The crowds that have been coming to my shows have been great this year. They are always open to hear new and diverse sounds each month, inspiring me to push the boundaries of the music I mix at each event.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I’ll break the rules because I have too many to narrow it down to just one. As songs go, Drake, “Doing it Wrong (Figgy Remix)”; Miguel, “Do You … (Cashmere Cat Remix)”; and Disclosure feat. London Grammar, “Help Me Lose My Mind” are in my top 10 of 2013. Albumwise, I’ve enjoyed Disclosure’s Settle and Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Cashmere Cat at SXSW. One of my favorite producers out right now, who also happens to be a great DJ.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
I’ve always had a great time at Hearts of Darkness and Making Movies shows, for sure.
Also nominated: Spinstyles
EMERGING ACT
Akkilles
What’s new and what’s next?
Well, my album is now out digitally (on Bandcamp) and on vinyl. I’m not totally sure what the immediate future holds, but the whole band is going to hit the road a little bit this fall, and I’m currently looking into recording an EP that I’d like to have out before Christmas.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Somewhere between a handful of genres — I’d say pop, folk, indie stuff. I usually say “ambient pop” to folks who aren’t really listening to a lot of music.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I’m pretty content with the KC music scene. It’s definitely not the spot where all the big indie labels, bands, producers, etc., are hanging out, but it feels like you can do well if you are willing to work hard. For anyone, in any city, music is going to be a challenge, but I’m happy here for now.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The record that has been on my turntable the most, recently, is D’Angelo’s Voodoo. It came out in 2000, and my friend Mike suggested I listen to it again. Most people can remember the “How Does It Feel” track/video from 2001, but now that I’m spending more time on recording and trying to learn about getting good sounds, I just can’t even believe that record was made in the ’90s. Everything in that album, from the production quality to the performances, is completely mind-blowing.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I don’t get out too much other than for local shows these days. I’ve got tickets to Kurt Vile in August, but the best recent gig I was able to see was probably the Summer Block Party put on by the Crossroads and Golden Sound. I didn’t get to see everyone, and not everything was exactly my style, but I could appreciate something about every performance, and I felt really grateful to be a part of that gig with so many other talented bands like Shy Boys, Fullbloods, Cowboy Indian Bear. It was a cool event.
Oils
What’s new and what’s next?
We just released our first EP, Total Oils USA (oilsoilsoils.bandcamp.com). We recorded it at SeedCo Studios in the Warehouse Arts District in Lawrence. We are currently on tour with CS Luxem, and we just played in New York for the first time, which was awesome. We’ll be back home in August and intend to quickly record another EP (we have a lot of material still). We’ll get back on the road in some form or another in September. Stoked to play at The Pitch Music Showcase on August 2!
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Total Oils USA
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Great supportive community, tons of awesome music, too many hot dogs.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Pharoah Sanders
The best show I/we saw this year:
SW/MM/NG, from Fayetteville, Arkansas, is the bomb.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
So much great local music happening right now. Lately we’ve been really digging on Psychic Heat, Shy Boys, Y[our] Fri[end] and Scammers.
Rev Gusto
What’s new and what’s next?
We are recording soon and looking to playing more out-of-town shows.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
1960s sunshine-pop revival, but we are not overly reverent. We don’t feel tied down to one genre.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We have met a lot of cool and awesome bands in the scene. We just wish that the rest of the country acknowledged the KC music scene as much as other cities. There is a lot of great music in this town that needs to be heard!
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The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Frank Ocean, Channel Orange; Surfer Blood, Pythons; Broncho, Can’t Get Past the Lips; and Captain Murphy, Duality
The best show I/we saw this year:
Billy Bragg at SXSW
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The ACBs
She’s a Keeper
What’s new and what’s next?
Coming out with our second full-length album toward the end of the summer. We’re very anxious to get it out there.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We like the mutual support that is given and received among bands. Individually, everyone’s kind of all over the place, but it all kind of works together. People get together and share bills even though their music is distinctly dissimilar. I guess it can be charming or frustrating, really, to people inside and outside the scene.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
My favorite album of the year thus far is Dom La Nena, Ela.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Mac Demarco and Naomi Punk at the Replay Lounge
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Going to go with Shy Boys on this one.
Y[our] Fri[end]
What’s new and what’s next?
Recently, I have been finishing up a record that Jordan Geiger of Hospital Ships has produced. As far as the next thing, I’d like to tour around at some point this year into the next. From then on, it’s all writing.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
My sound has a pop element within a landscape, all masked in a singer-songwriter form. It can be played in your smallest bedroom or fill a patio in an outdoor venue. It’s always evolving.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I’m so new to the Kansas City music scene that it’s all exciting to me. The events and venues that I’m just now being exposed to are a part of this realm that I didn’t know existed. Middle of the Map Fest, Crossroads Block Party, as well as KC Psychfest were some of my favorite events I’ve been a part of.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Julian Lynch’s Lines finally came out, and it was worth the wait. I really love the depth and layers of his records. The Bloodbirds record is one of my favorites, as well as Hospital Ships’ newest release. As far as songs go, I can’t seem to stop swooning over Foxygen’s “San Francisco.” That record also holds up well in its entirety. Constellation Records also has a tremendous batting average. I was recently introduced to DJ Koze and haven’t looked back.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I saw James Blake at Liberty Hall and was completely blown away. Everything he did seemed to make sense. Also, the Shivas played an in-store at Love Garden Sounds and slayed it. They are such a fun and energetic band with solid material.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
I’m really torn between a lot of different bands at the moment. I love everything that the SeedCo/Whatever Forever collective bands are doing. I recently had the chance to see Shy Boys, and they won me over instantly. The new Bloodbirds record is also amazing and translates so well live. I have some love for a good portion of the bands in the scene right now.
GARAGE
Bloodbirds
What’s new and what’s next?
Self-released an LP, booked a West Coast tour, played too many shows. Now we’re gonna have babies.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
High with weird feelings
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Likes: Mills Record Company, Love Garden, KCDIY Radio. Dislikes: that the Studded Bird is gone.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Fleetwood Mac
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Torben
The Conquerors
What’s new and what’s next?
Writing a bunch of new music, recording and playing rad shows. Looking to start up our own happenings, shindigs and be-ins.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Psychotropic
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We’re liking the great bands we’ve gotten to play with and all the good shows happening this year. Not liking playing shows for little pay — classic band gripe.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The Ty Segall & White Fence album, Hair, is pretty killer!
The best show I/we saw this year:
Acid Mothers Temple at the Riot Room. They slay.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Bloodbirds and Shy Boys are pretttttty awesome.
The Empty Spaces
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Landlocked beach rock
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We like that venues allow us to play shows and that other bands play shows with us. We don’t like that we don’t make any money.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Broncho, Can’t Get Past the Lips
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Crossroads Summer Block Party
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Shy Boys
Lazy
What’s new and what’s next?
Our LP, Obsession, is being released by Moniker Records in August. We leave for a two-and-a-half-week tour in August to promote the Obsession album. We are currently in the process of recording our next record and trying to finish some singles for Goodbye Boozy and Volar Records. A new music video is in the final filming and editing stages for our song “Party City,” too. And Field Trip Publishing is assisting us with the creation of a game-board version for the Obsession LP.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Forceful, energetic, demanding, reflective, insightful, very free and open to move about the plane; working ferociously within written song structure but void of stuffy overdrafted calculation/dreamy wild soundscape; people want to get closer and closer, turn it up louder and louder.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like performing at new venues and seeking out places to host shows at. A few new ones for us to play shows at this year include MiniBar, Art Closet Studios, Satan’s Gay Acid Bath and the Middle East.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Spray Paint, Useless Eaters, Cascadia, Outside World, Royal Headache, What Next?, Fake Surfers, “Black Panties,” Antena’s “Camino Del Sol”
The best show I/we saw this year:
I don’t remember the band’s name, but the show was at the Buccaneer in Memphis during Lazy’s January tour. The band members were being so crazy that the bar owners kicked them out before they even played. They then let the bad dudes back in for their show, and they proceeded to play a destructive set for 12 minutes or less, only to be later dragged back out of the bar by the owners. It was like a chaotic Germs show.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Thuggees and Whyte Bitch, Radkey, Torben, Meat Mist, Shawn Hansen, Sam Jones
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Also nominated: Up the Academy
HIP-HOP
Gee Watts
What’s new and what’s next?
About to hit the road with Phil Ade and Shawn Christopher, Scotty ATL and Freddie Gibbs, as well as continuing to touch my city with shows here and there. Pitch Showcase with you all, Dancefestopia and probably a free show for everybody to come out to.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Authentic, genuine, can’t be boxed in. KC life, conscious of life, motivating the people and youth.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I’m liking how Tech and Rich are showing us it is possible. Both taking major steps forward in 2013. I’m liking a lot of young guys and new guys on the scene bringing their own sound. I wish our local radio would support more. When Slap City locks down a radio slot, some heads might be in trouble.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Honestly, mine … 2012 … GKMC. “Premature Hate,” “Angels in the Hood,” “Quiet Place” — those are classic records. If anyone else wrote them, I’d be jealous. I was jealous of Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City. I’m loving the Abnorm Solar Power project.
The best show I/we saw this year:
LeBron in the finals
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Abnorm, Riley, Ron Ron and Greg Enemy. Shout-out to everybody doin’ their thing, but those four are the only ones who motivate me at this point. Doesn’t mean that won’t change, but for the moment, those guys keep me on my toes from production, lyrical, song and topic standpoints.
infO Gates
What’s new and what’s next?
My LP Everybody Knows Everything is out now on iTunes, etc. I did beats for the last two CES Cru albums, bunch of other production credits.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A blend of genres. My heaviest influences are probably Stevie Wonder, Rage Against the Machine and DJ Premier.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There’s a ton of talent here. And diversity. But historically, you have to leave KC to succeed. We need to fix that.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Tough. But I’d have to say Killer Mike & El-P’s album R.A.P. Music.
The best show I/we saw this year:
My guys CES Cru with Tech at the Midland. Very memorable moment.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Cru is and will always be CES. … I’m riding for my guys until the end.
MilkDrop
What’s new and what’s next?
Released a set of five free singles throughout the spring in preparation for my next release. All are available online through various sources. Recently, in June, released visuals shot by Steddy P. for a double video, “Let It Go/Daily Bread,” both of which were featured on my January release Falling Back to Earth 2. Later this month, with D/Will, we’ll be launching an art and music umbrella, Lamb and Lion Legion, which will feature a series of releases including solo efforts from D/Will, Stik Figa and myself. My first release under the Lamb and Lion umbrella will be a free album entitled The Daily Word: Dreamers Never Sleep and will be made available in October. That release will be followed by two releases, which will be available before or at the turn of the year, The Daily Word: Reverie in a Dream, and a yet-to-be-titled group release with D/Will under the moniker 6 Mile Bottom.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
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Soulful, introspective, blue collar and honest
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Like: The activeness of all artists. Dislike: Promoters and venues have turned Wednesday into a prime day for booking shows.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
J. Cole, Born Sinner
The best show I/we saw this year:
Talib Kweli at the Granada
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Heartfelt Anarchy
Reach
What’s new and what’s next?
I released my fourth project a few months ago, Live at RecordBar. I’m currently in the process of completing my next two records. Both album projects are exclusively produced by beatmakers from New York.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A melodic, soulful, rhythmic blend of soul, R&B and golden-era hip-hop
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I love the constant evolution of it all. I also love the fact that it’s still a working-class music scene. You only reap what you’ve harvested.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Jay-Z’s Magna Carta Holy Grail
The best show I/we saw this year:
George Watsky at the Granada
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Hard to pick a favorite, but here are several I like: Les Izmore, MilkDrop, Stik Figa and Kutty Slitz.
Stik Figa
What’s new and what’s next?
I have just completed a release for the independent label Mello Music Group, home of Oddisee, Apollo Brown, Quelle Chris and a few others. It’s a collaborative effort with a producer from North Carolina by the name of L’Orange. He’s very experimental. The record is mostly based around samples from 1920s and ’30s jazz, very different than my usual output. It should be out sometime in late October, early November. Me and D/Will will also be getting back together, which I am most excited about, for a project entitled JOBB. It’s shaping up to be something special. I can’t wait for y’all to hear it.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
The evolution of country rap tunes, an amalgamation of intelligent funk
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like seeing and hearing all the new acts that are springing up these days, doing their own thing the way they wanna do it. I am not digging the lack of consistency in output in shows these days, it seems.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I am going to have to go with Run the Jewels by Killer Mike and El-P. A close second is Chance the Rapper’s Acid Rap. Both innovative and different releases, very inspiring to hear.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Killer Mike with Big Boi at the Granada. Noticing a theme here? Also, Ebony Tusks with Showyousuck, and Greg Enemy with the Abnorm hosting at the Bottleneck awhile back was pretty great.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
At the moment, Gee Watts and Riley from KC — both are very authentic and talented artists from the area. Also, the Abnorm — that guy is dope.
Also nominated: Rich the Factor, the Popper
JAZZ ENSEMBLE
Alaturka
What’s new and what’s next?
We received 4.5 stars in DownBeat magazine for our new album, Yalniz. We recorded and produced it by ourselves at Kansas City Academy. We are hoping to book some festivals in 2014 if our schedules align.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Alaturka is a quartet that creates an equal “auditory handshake” between two musical cultures, American jazz and Turkish classical music, where both are treated with equal respect.
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What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We like that we all live in the same city, even though our other projects take us all over and it’s hard to book local shows. There are very few really good jazz clubs in KC for sound and atmosphere. We love the Grassroots Concert Series at Kansas City Academy.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Fado Novato
Diverse
What’s new and what’s next?
Our second album, which was recorded last summer in Paris with French pianist Tony Tixier and KC native Logan Richardson, is just about finished with the mastering process. Be on the lookout for details of the release.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A conglomerate of styles we have spent time diving into, including hip-hop, pop, R&B and gospel music.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We love the collaborative efforts happening in the scene and the fans who are dedicated to supporting great local music.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Heartfelt Anarchy, Heartfelt Anarchy
The best show I/we saw this year:
Heartfelt Anarchy CD-release show at RecordBar
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Heartfelt Anarchy
Parallax
What’s new and what’s next?
Take Five Coffee Bar on August 23, Prairie Village Jazz Fest on September 7
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Lightning in a bottle. Dynamic and sweeping new original jazz, all styles. Quintet with two killer drummers.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I am loving the scene right now. Continually expanding in talent, creativity, diversity and venues.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The Roger Wilder Quintet, “Stretch”
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Dave Douglas Quintet at the Blue Room
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
KC Sound Collective, the Matt Otto Quintet, the Roger Wilder Quintet, the People’s Liberation Big Band
The People’s Liberation Big Band
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re playing a newly composed score to three short Ladislaw Starewicz animated films on October 8 at the Kansas City Art Institute as part of the ArtSounds Concert Series.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Love
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
All my friends are in really good bands.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Roger Wilder, “Stretch”
The best show I/we saw this year:
Parallax
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Grisly Hand
Shades of Jade
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve gotten the opportunity to perform at this year’s Live Music Showcase Kansas City at Tengo Sed Cantina, and a chance to possibly be signed to Atlantic Records, on August 17. Also the catalog of original music from the group continues to expand and push the limits of the jazz genre in attempts to make it more accessible to younger generations.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Neojazz. Combining the vibe and groove of hip-hop and R&B with the harmony, improvisation and experimentation of jazz music.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There are dozens of places where you can find live music around here every day of the week. Get out, people, and try out something new!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Justin Timberlake, The 20/20 Experience. It’s got a little something for everyone, and it obviously took some good time to develop and be produced
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What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
It’s definitely a tie between the Outer Circle and the Humans.
Also nominated: the KC Sound Collective
JAZZ SOLO
Brandon Draper
What’s new and what’s next?
A few new projects and records in New York, Colorado and L.A. Continuing to build my children’s program, Drum Safari, in the Midwest and Colorado Draper Family Band tours (with my dad on Hammond B-3).
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
After many collaborations with DJs and instrumentalists, [I’ve] set out on my own using many different instruments, loopers, pedals, laptop, sampling and live drumming to create an eclectic high-energy show you don’t want to miss. World music, electronic, drum ‘n’ bass, indie, rock, acoustic, dub, live-looping, raw.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I drift in and out of different genres in this city and enjoy that.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Alaturka, Yalniz
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Making Movies. They are grounded, talented, reaching outside the city, and put on an incredible show.
Eddie Moore
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
My sound investigates modern influences with those of tradition. Saturated with color, the melodies are lyrics that share my life experiences with the listener. I enjoy using mixed meter in composition to introduce twists and turns to the canvas, creating a different mood with every piece that allows the soloist the utmost freedom with line and idea.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I would say Gerald Clayton’s album Bond has definitely made a lasting impression.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Jazz drummer Eric Harland and Voyager. The concert was mind-blowing, a group with great communication and wonderful material.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
There are so many good bands in KC at the moment. If I had to say my favorite, I would go with Reggie B. I had the opportunity to see his band a few months ago, and it was amazing — great music and tight grooves, just a damn good time!
Hermon Mehari
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A conglomerate of styles we have spent time diving into, including hip-hop, pop, R&B and gospel music.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We love the collaborative efforts happening in the scene and the fans who are dedicated to supporting great local music.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Gerald Clayton, Life Forum
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Heartfelt Anarchy
Jeff Harshbarger
What’s new and what’s next?
I’ve just finished up working the KC Bass Workshop, which was absolutely incredible. Ten great teachers from around the world, including the legendary Francois Rabbath, working with 70 supremely talented bassists. Now I’m finalizing plans for my European tour in August.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Dangerously classy. Your cool older brother made you check it out, and your mother dances to it when she doesn’t think you’re looking.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like seeing more local groups mixing it up with national acts.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Wayne Shorter, Without a Net
The best show I/we saw this year:
Francois Rabbath at Park University
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Grisly Hand
Mark Lowrey
What’s new and what’s next?
I released my second solo CD, Tangos for 18th Street. Currently, my jazz trio is happy to be playing weekly, at the Majestic and the new Green Lady Lounge. What’s next? I just started working on a Schubert song cycle, so I guess classical music.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
My solo playing is different than when I play with Dutch Newman or Making Movies or my jazz trio, but I like to think that I retain my own identity. I’m an improviser.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We are really lucky to have such a wealth of talented jazz musicians in this town. It’s truly rare, as I learn more and more from travel and talking to tourists.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Fado Novato’s debut album, Começo. KC-based Shay Estes, Beau Bledsoe and Jordan Shipley playing traditional Portuguese music. So sad and hauntingly beautiful.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I play almost every night so don’t get to see as much as I’d like. Recently I got to see the five-year anniversary of the People’s Liberation Big Band. They are amazing.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Paul Shin Trio — Paul, Dominique Sanders and Ryan Lee. They are so tight. I catch them Sundays at the Green Lady.
LIVE ACT
The Beautiful Bodies
What’s new and what’s next?
Just released our new EP, Battles, which we recorded with John Feldmann (the Used, Panic at the Disco). We have been on Warped Tour this summer and we head back out on tour in the fall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Black Flag meets Michael Jackson
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Kansas City has always had a very strong music scene, and it seems like people outside the city finally are starting to figure it out. What’s rad is how diverse the bands are. Artists — ranging from punk to rap to indie to Afro-Cuban — are really starting to make waves around the country. The quality of all these very different bands is excellent. Because we are not in New York or L.A., bands have to work harder to get noticed, which I think has forced artists from here to be really good. You’re not going to make it from knowing people or getting lucky. It really raises the bar of quality here.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Daft Punk’s new record is incredibly addictive.
The best show I/we saw this year:
We are still recovering from the all-out assault of Hammerlord’s CD release. Amazing show.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Mac Lethal
Cowboy Indian Bear
What’s new and what’s next?
Well, after years of working on it, our second album, Live Old, Die Young, came out in late spring. The process of finishing that one up while touring was an intense one, so we’ve just been trying to relax this summer. This fall we’ll be hitting the road back out to Chicago and New York promoting a documentary that our friend Micki Hadley has been making the last six months or so.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
We have a lush sound, with a tense energy to it. I always like the idea of dropping someone right into someone else’s mood.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Love that the KC music scene seems to have risen up to truly take pride in developing arts in its community. Things like Middle of the Map Fest, and the events the people at Golden Sound and Midwest Music Foundation put together feel very unifying.
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The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Best song: These New Puritans, “Fragment 2”; favorite album: Rhye, Woman.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Heartfelt Anarchy’s set at MidCoast Takeover (SXSW) was amazing. Soft Reeds at the Bottleneck in March. But probably a show we caught on one of our days off in NYC in April: a songwriter named Emily King. Her band had so much control and nuance, it was crazy. We’d all agree that each of us was legitimately inspired after that show.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Heartscape Landbreak, from here in Lawrence. Just some ridiculous guitar/bass/composition work going on in that band.
The Dead Girls
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve spent much of this year raising funds to make a physical release of our new album, Fade In/Fade Out, which we released digitally in February. We haven’t been playing very much because all of us have been knee-deep in U.S. Air Guitar season, something we are all very passionate about. Eric is already on his way to nationals, having emerged victorious in the New York semifinal, and Cameron is going to the Washington, D.C., semifinal in a couple of weeks to try to claim his spot at nationals. We are very excited for our next KC shows, though. We’ll be at the Arts & Crafts Beer & Music Festival at Screenland Armour August 24, and at RecordBar with the legendary Paul Collins Beat September 18.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A thin, cheap trick named Lizzy KISSing a superchunky pope smoker.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The music scene is absolutely fantastic, but most people would rather go out to a dance night with a DJ or something. Maybe it’s because of the cheap cover charge or maybe it’s because you can’t really dance to Ghosty, we’re not really sure. But we definitely don’t relate.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The ACBs, Little Leaves. It’s not just our favorite local album but probably our favorite album of 2013 period. These guys just know how to write great songs, and they know they need to push themselves further with each album. Best song: “Come Back to Life,” Hospital Ships. The new Hospital Ships lineup has exceeded expectations, and this simple four-chord wonder dwarfs everything they have done up to this point. It’s more than admirable when you can write a song using mainly the C and F chords, and it still becomes transcendent.
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Zombies at SXSW, Black Flag at the Granada, Cheap Trick at VooDoo Lounge, the Darkness at the Uptown, Grizzly Bear at the Uptown, Deerhoof at RecordBar
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Everyone knows we are sluts for the ACBs.
Hearts of Darkness
What’s new and what’s next?
Everything. Evolving. We love seeing new faces.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Involving.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
More “I don’t give a FUK what the genre is” shows!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Cowboy Indian Bear, Live Old, Die Young; “QUEEN,” Janelle Monáe feat. Erykah Badu
The best show I/we saw this year:
Rakim then Dead Prez at the Riot Room, the Staves at the Brick
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Hermon Mehari
Making Movies
What’s new and what’s next?
As I write, I’m in NYC doing some interviews at LAMC (Latin Alternative Music Conference), and tomorrow I fly to meet the band and launch our East Coast tour with Ghosty. After the tour, we get a week at home, and then it looks like we’ll be playing our first international dates in August.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Ours. No one describes it quite the same way, but I’ll explain the goal. We dig deep into Afro-Latino rhythms and culture and present them through the filter of our modern lives.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We are so lucky to have a supportive and captive audience. A few weeks ago, we had our second annual M.U.S.I.C.A. Summer Camp in the inner city, and we had so much support from musicians, DJs, fans and business owners allowing us to provide quality programming for some youth that wouldn’t have been exposed to it otherwise. Those people make me proud of our little city.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
James Blake, “Overgrown.” That song captivated me during a dark period this year and became my lullaby most nights for a few weeks.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Mariachi Vargas at the Kauffman Center. Each member of the ensemble was a virtuoso in their own right and showed an ownership of their craft that only a lifetime dedication and a multigenerational group can achieve. The show had everything: drama, humor, songs and so many chill-inspiring moments. It was performance art, and it easily trumps any rock show I’ve seen this year. El Grupo Atotonilco, run by Juan-Carlos Chaurand’s family, opened up the show with some beautiful ballet folklorico.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Lennon from Ha Ha Tonka played me some of their new material, and it is really great. They have been putting in the work, so I’m rooting for them to really break through this year.
Radkey
What’s new and what’s next?
We will head back to the studio in July to create sweet rock goodness, and we’re doing a 20-city U.S. tour starting August 3. We will also be touring outside the continental United States this fall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
That’s an easy one: 100 percent Somali pirate rock.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Really digging “Burn” by Magneta Lane
The best show I/we saw this year:
Danzig in London (half of his set was Misfits!).
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Empty Spaces and Soft Reeds. We can’t choose one over the other.
METAL/HARD ROCK
At the Left Hand of God
What’s new and what’s next?
We have two new tracks that we are recording with our new singer that we are really excited to release. We are opening Summer Slaughter in Oklahoma City and have plans to tour in October. Also, competing in the second round of Sumerian Records’ Headbang for the Highway this fall and playing the always-amazing Hammerween on October 19 at the Uptown Theater.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
METAL.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We really love all the support from our fans and the venues we play at. It sucks that the Beaumont is gone.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The new Within the Ruins album, Elite, is pretty sweet.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Lamb of God and In Flames at the Uptown, and Middle of the Map Fest
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
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David Hasselhoff on Acid. Check out their new release.
Boreas
What’s new and what’s next?
We just released our Parabellum EP. It’s our first recording since our lineup changed from having two guitars to having a guitar and a bass. We will be recording again, hopefully for another full-length, before October. Then moving to Phoenix, and we’ll be done (for a while at least, possibly for good).
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Black metal. Beyond that, decide for yourself.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
As far as the DIY/punk scene (which is where we primarily stick around), the scene is great in that there are a ton of awesome bands, both new and old. Unfortunately, there are not enough DIY venues.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Some friends of ours from Philadelphia, Sadgiqacea — their new LP, False Prism. Doom metal done perfectly, extremely well written.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Definitely the show where Hoax played at Bad House. It was Keef Mountain and our tour kickoff. Whole show ruled.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Keef Mountain. We toured with them for a week in June, and they were spot-on every night.
Hammerlord
What’s new and what’s next?
We just released our new CD, We Live, in June and we think it is our strongest release to date. We recorded, produced, financed and released it all ourselves in true DIY spirit. We also just played Cricket Wireless with Alice Cooper and Marilyn Manson, and that went really well. Our next big show is Hammerween IV: The Dream Hammer, October 19 at the Uptown Theater.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Old-school Bay Area thrash with a new-school twist
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We always love the KC music scene. All the bands support each other (regardless of genre), and all the fans come out and support when they can. We couldn’t ask for a better music scene.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Been jamming Amon Amarth “Deceiver of the Gods” a lot. Depeche Mode’s Delta Machine was also a surprise hit this year!
The best show I/we saw this year:
Alice Cooper at Cricket Wireless melted all our faces off. He is a true legend and performer. Even after all these years, he still gets up there like a true pro and doesn’t let up until his set is done.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Just too many, to be honest: Cowboy Indian Bear, Koktopus, Wrath and Ruin, Architects, Six Percent, Solus, At the Left Hand of God, Moire, Akkilles.
Torn the Fuck Apart
What’s new and what’s next?
Recently, we’ve been playing live quite often, both locally and around the Midwest. We are also writing our next full-length album, to be released on Ossuary Industries early next year.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Superfluous, as are the soundscapes of clutter and confusion.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Just like any other scene considered to be underground or out of the mainstream, it requires a consistent stream of support to survive. A larger population should help to strengthen this local music support, and even though KC does have a metal scene, we feel it could be stronger.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The new Suffocation album, The Pinnacle of Bedlam, is pretty fucking awesome. Also, the new Deeds of Flesh album, Portals to Canaan, is brutal as all hell.
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The best show I/we saw this year:
The Decapitated show at the Riot Room a month or two back was a brutal show. Master and Sacrificial Slaughter out in Topeka were also really good.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Marasmus, Troglodyte, Unmerciful, David Hasselhoff on Acid, Gornography, and Origin, just to name a few.
Also nominated: Night Creation
POP
The ACBs
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re on the road now pushing our recent release, Little Leaves. Trying not to think too far into the future.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Sped-up ’60s pop with gloomy lyrics
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There are lots of people making good music here. I like that more DIY-type shows seem to be popping up.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Unknown Mortal Orchestra, “Swim and Sleep (Like a Shark)”; Naomi Punk, The Feeling
The best show I/we saw this year:
Mac DeMarco at the Replay
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Metatone
Antennas Up
What’s new and what’s next?
We just released our music video for our song “Coming On,” and we’ve got a music video for our song “The Awkward Phase” releasing in mid-August.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Electro pop-rock band that fuses post-new-wave guitar hooks with vocoder synths.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
It seems that more and more bands from Kansas City are starting to make their way to national and international recognition.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
It’s gotta be the new Vampire Weekend album, Modern Vampires of the City.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I think hands down the favorite live show of the year was Lucius at SXSW when they performed at St. David’s.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
It’s tough to pick favorites with all the good acts around, but Brain Food, from Lawrence.
Ghosty
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re officially releasing our self-titled third full-length (remastered with a new tracklist) on High Dive Records. We have a newly recorded single called “Love U 2” soon to be released. We played a short Eastern run of shows with Making Movies in July.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Guys with guitars expressing themselves, with some similarities to and differences from other bands.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like that melody is cool. I don’t like when bands are loud and aggressive in a dumb way. That makes it sound like I don’t like loud bands — I do.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Chris Cohen, Overgrown Path
The best show I/we saw this year:
Dirty Projectors at the Granada
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Shy Boys and Lazy
Hidden Pictures
What’s new and what’s next?
Well, a lot actually. I’m relocating to San Francisco in November, so Hidden Pictures is probably playing its last KC shows for a while. Hidden Pictures will continue as soon as I can assemble a band out West. In the meantime, we just released our three-song Sister Wife EP, and we’ll hopefully have one more EP out before the move and a farewell show. Thanks to KC for all the support these past five years!
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Our old singer Michelle used to describe them as “song songs,” which basically means we arrange verses, bridges and choruses in articulate musical ways that are catchy and/or memorable in some capacity. We also love harmonies, particularly of the coed variety. Just don’t call us “cute” — I fucking hate that.
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What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I love that we have cool record labels here now, like our label Golden Sound Records, High Dive Records and Sharp Country Records. It’s nice to see bands pooling resources and creating an identity for KC. Plus, I love the bands on both labels, and I feel lucky to call so many of them friends.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Dawes, Stories Don’t End
The best show I/we saw this year:
Dawes for the sweep!
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Fullboods has really grown into an awesome band (both live and on record). The song “Fox and the Hound” slays me.
Shy Boys
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve been trying to get our first record out for a while. Problem is, we’re slackers. Soon?
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Beach Boys on Robitussin
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There seems to be a shift toward bypassing the traditional circuit of venues in favor of more homegrown spaces. Playing for free at somebody’s house, packed full of people dancing and shaking the floor, beats making 30 bucks at one of our empty venues (to split three ways plus two drink tickets, domestics only) any day.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Naomi Punk, The Feeling
The best show I/we saw this year:
Chris Cohen at Love Garden
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Can’t wait for that Een record in … October.
PUNK
Bent Left
What’s new and what’s next?
The latest thing we’ve released was a full-length back in November called Fabergé. It was the first record we’ve ever really had the chance to polish in the studio, and we’re pretty proud of it. We toured behind that for four months last fall/winter before tracking some new songs back in February. They’ll be featured on some upcoming splits and compilations, including a UN-sponsored benefit to prevent teen suicide in Trinidad and Tobago. People hearing our music and not immediately killing themselves is unique for us, so we’re excited about that one. We’re scheduled to record some new material again in August, and we’ll be playing a few shows this fall before going on a writing bender. Expect more great additions to our eternal catalog of sonic fertility enhancement.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Bent Left is a more academic version of the Clash or the Ramones for fans of the Broadways, Fifteen and Dillinger Four.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Through our efforts over the past years as Recycled Rockstar Industries and our recent work on a project called Flood.FM, Bent Left has had the opportunity to meet and play with bands of all genres and descent, and the experiences have been bookworthy. Kansas City’s music communities possess a magical affinity for one another that isn’t found in other scenes across the nation.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The new Opossum Trot stuff is stellar. I first heard the unmastered recordings a few months ago, then saw it live with the full band at a show in our basement. A few weeks after that, they came in and did a live acoustic performance for a Flood.FM video/interview, after which they gave us copies of the mastered tracks. It is marvelous in every form. The guys in Opossum Trot are among the most talented group of songwriters that I’ve ever had the opportunity to know, and they are currently my favorite band in Kansas City.
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The best show I/we saw this year:
I once heard the band KTP described from stage by the bass player of Dead to Me as having “butt-fucked everyone in the venue with their rock and roll” the last time he saw them play, so when I went to their show last week, my expectations were high. I managed to escape any and all butt-fucking, but their performance was spectacular nonetheless.
Nature Boys
What’s new and what’s next?
We have an LP coming out on Giant Balls records sometime in September or something.
Then we go on tour until we hate ourselves. It’s a natural cycle we like to go through a couple of times a year or so.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Sometimes it’s tight, and most people have a good time. Other times, the guitar amp is too loud or busted, and people leave or go outside and talk about more important things.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There are a lot of places to play at the moment, and the general attitude seems to be “Don’t be a dick, try to get the touring band some money and have a good time.” Then there are also plenty of other places you can still go to be a dick, and the bands get ripped off so … everybody’s happy.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Dio
The best show I/we saw this year:
Wick and the Tricks’ last show at Harling’s
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Millage Gilbert
No Class
What’s new and what’s next?
Keine Klasse II has been out for a bit now. Just got back from playing the first New York’s Alright fest in the spring. Writing new material and playing them out, and hopefully will have a new single/LP coming out at the end of the year.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
The sound of depressed cavemen on uppers and downers. Add some distortion, and you got yourself a stew.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
A lot of DIY venues are at KC musicians’ disposal now. That’s awesome.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Anything ever written by Maroon 5
The best show I/we saw this year:
New York’s Alright fest was three days of awesomeness, and we were lucky enough to be a part of it.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Too many to pick from — a lot of Kansas City hardcore/punk is doing it right.
The Rackatees
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re doing our first real tour in late August/early September. We’ll be traversing the great Southeastern United States on that run. After that, we’ll be saving cash for our next release, continuing to play sweet-ass shows in Lawrence and Kansas City, and eventually touring again. Come say hi.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Swift ’90s punk rock
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We love that all the KC punk bands attend each other’s shows and support each other constantly. There’s always a good group of folks at the shows we play/attend. Solidarity!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Itching Regret, “Cat Shit Baby”
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The best show I/we saw this year:
Teenage Bottlerocket, Off With Their Heads, Masked Intruder at RecordBar
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Four Arm Shiver
U.S.Americans
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve been working on recording our first LP, and we’re almost done. We’ve also been playing some fun shows lately, the next being Saturday, August 10, at Davey’s Uptown Ramblers Club, with the Conformists and Kisser from the St. Louis area and Faultfinder from Kansas City.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
New wave of Benish heavy metal
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Scenes change constantly. We’re just happy to still be playing music together.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Pissed Jeans, Honeys
The best show I/we saw this year:
We all streamed the Black Flag show, live from Lawrence, to our respective couches. It was “OK.”
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Bloodbirds!
Also nominated: Pizza Party Massacre
REGGAE
77 Jefferson
What’s new and what’s next?
Just released a new album and toured out West. East later this year.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
A blend of reggae, R&B, rock, hip-hop and soul. Music for everyone.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Liking that KC artists are getting out of the Midwest more. Liking the fact that there is a reggae category again …
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Cas Haley, “Wait for Me”
The best show I/we saw this year:
California Roots festival, Monterey, California
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Spawnbreezie
Arm the Poor
What’s new and what’s next?
Released two albums, Respect and The Gospel. Continuing to tour and play various dates, and currently at work on a third album. Shared the stage with Luciano, Etana, Fortunate Youth, and John Wayne and the Pain. On the rise in the national reggae scene.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Reggae.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Alborosie, Sound the System. Hottest track right now is “Mi Sensimilla” by Arm the Poor. Go get it!
The best show I/we saw this year:
Hands down, Luciano in St. Louis.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Kan Eyed. They kill it!
Born in Babylon
What’s new and what’s next?
Recently picked up a new drummer, Blaine Smith, and we are in the final stages of completing our first full-length album, Perseverance, which is tentatively scheduled to be released at the end of the summer and will be available on iTunes.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Coming strong with rough and tough reggae vibes. Powerful music with lyrics that inspire love, positivity, and raise political awareness.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Working with other self-motivated musicians in a way that is beneficial for everyone, including the fans. Sometimes when people lack motivation or the appropriate communication skills, things can really fall apart fast. Love straight shooters that know their way around their instruments and like to have fun.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Song: “There for You,” 77 Jefferson feat. Josh Heinrichs. Album: Alborosie, Sound the System
The best show I/we saw this year:
Tribal Seeds
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
77 Jefferson
The New Riddim
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve been working on some new tunes, and we will be recording said tunes.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
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Party-time ska, soul, and rock and roll
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
KC needs a new mid-size venue since we lost the Beaumont and Crosstown Station.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Daft Punk, Random Access Memories; Jay-Z, Magna Carta Holy Grail; Jimmy Cliff, Rebirth; Bloodbirds, Psychic Surgery; Ill Neño, “Calm Before the Storm”
The best show I/we saw this year:
Chris Murray at the Riot Room. We were his backing band. He was amazing to play with.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
U.S.Americans, Making Movies and Heartfelt Anarchy
ROCK
Cherokee Rock Rifle
What’s new and what’s next?
New: a video we shot with Daniel Goggins and Josh Ferdinand (XO Blackwater) for the second track (“Six to Midnite”) off the newly released Ta-Li EP. Next: We’ve planned some righteous shows with some heavy friends from home and abroad, as well as some new recordings set to button this fall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Rock and roll, with a tinge of rock and roll on the side.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The music scene in KC right now is incredible and underestimated. Get wise to it.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
So damn tough to say, but it’s hard not to be proud/envious/awed by the Radkey dudes or Bloodbirds.
Gentleman Savage
What’s new and what’s next?
We are currently gearing up to release a 7-inch titled Beyond Blue sometime this fall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
1960s and ’70s-inspired psychedelic rock
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I love that people are willing to help each other out around here. There is a healthy rivalry among bands, but it doesn’t ever seem to be cutthroat or mean-spirited. There’s a great sense of community in this town, and there are tons of people constantly seeking ways to improve the scene: through DIY music festivals, groups and businesses giving local bands a place to play, radio stations supporting local bands as much as they do. It’s really done a lot for the scene, and it seems to be poised to continue. The thing we dislike most about KC is less about the city and more about geography than anything. Crime sucks, too, I guess.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
For local bands, we love the Dead Girls’ new album. Also really enjoying the new Soft Reeds and Clairaudients stuff.
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Noise FM and Soft Reeds or maybe the Casket Lottery and the Dead Girls. For one we didn’t play, I’d probably pick Shearwater at RecordBar.
Man Bear
What’s new and what’s next?
Our newest release came out in what seems like forever ago (December 2012) and is called Infinity Cat. After some real-world delays, we’re gearing up to finish the next one, hopefully over the next month or so. It’s tentatively titled Power Slop and should be out September/October.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers go bankrupt, forget how to play their instruments.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We like that, even though we make questionably recorded releases, people still seem to like us. It’s great living in a town where a band that makes low-budget recordings and is prone to song-stopping mistakes live can still get a positive response.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Slum Party’s album, Flood, is pretty incredible. The new ACBs is also enjoyable and catchy. And the Dead Girls!
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The best show I/we saw this year:
Probably the most consistently enjoyable live band has to be Deco Auto. Always so much energy and consistently good. Not sure they ever make mistakes live. It’s annoying.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Slum Party, for sure. They’re just so unique and different.
Not a Planet
What’s new and what’s next?
Our first album, The Few, the Proud, the Strange, was released this year, and we are pretty ecstatic with the way it turned out. We’ve already begun touring and are looking forward to playing our new music to more expansive audiences and, hopefully, representing our fair city well.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
We’ve heard it’s Queen meets the Beatles, but more than anything, we just try to make music that we would listen to and enjoy.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
We like: Midwest Music Foundation, MidCoast Takeover, the vibrant music scene, artists and art enthusiasts, quality venues, anyone working to increase KC music’s national visibility. We dislike: haters.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
We are currently loving Me Like Bees’ new album, The Ides.
The best show I/we saw this year:
The MidCoast Takeover at SXSW had such an amazing lineup that it definitely takes the cake. The Architects were especially amazing and delivered a swift kick-in-the-ass rock show on their night.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
There’s so many that we love, but the first to come to mind at the moment: Me Like Bees, Beautiful Bodies, Antennas Up, Towers, Life & Times, Clairaudients, the Architects, La Guerre, Akkilles.
Soft Reeds
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve got lots of irons in the fire, chefs in the kitchen, ears to the ground, players in the game. Soft Reeds dances like no one’s watching. Just want to encourage the youth of today to keep their eye on the ball and reach for the stars.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Bouncy clicky-clacky nervy glammy songs about seizures and girls.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Same shit, different year. Great music that we all love, toiling in relative obscurity. This year we get the all-too-rare pleasure of seeing one of our own starting to blow up — we’ll all be living vicariously through Radkey in 2014.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Majical Cloudz, “Turns Turns Turns”; Savages, “She Will.” New albums from Suuns and Chelsea Light Moving.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Majical Cloudz at SXSW. My eyes stood up on the back of my neck.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Radkey
Sons of Great Dane
What’s new and what’s next?
We’re really excited about two new batches of songs that we are working with.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Post-pop alternative Americana
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
What’s not to like?
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Kurt Vile; Son of Schmilsson
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Eels at the Vic, Jeff Mangum at Liberty Hall
The Caves
What’s new and what’s next?
We’ve added Vincent Lawhon (guitarist for the Conquerors) on bass, and we’ve been tracking demos and writing songs for the follow-up to our album Duplexiaville.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
We’re a Midwestern, indie-bred pop group.
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What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
There could always be more people supporting local music and making sure musicians get paid what they’re worth.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
There are tons, but Tame Impala’s Lonerism jumps to mind.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Thee Oh Sees at Beerland during SXSW
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The Grisly Hand, the Conquerors, all the bands with whom we’ve shared bills.
Claque
What’s new and what’s next?
We just woke up from hibernation, and apparently we’re popular. What’s next? We will probably find out we’re not popular.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
It’s a foundation of brapapap with a touch of tssstsst and hints of wroooaaaan and wiiiddlywaaah. You know, the KC sound.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Our popularity and our imminent unpopularity.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The ACBs, Little Leaves; the Grisly Hand, Country Singles
The best show I/we saw this year:
The Grisly Hand’s CD-release party at Knuckleheads was a great time.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
There are way too many. If we know you, we probably like you.
SINGER-SONGWRITER (FEMALE)
Amy Farrand
What’s new and what’s next?
Well, I’m still doing solo work, and I’m also busy with other projects. I’m rocking out with my pals in the Silver Maggies, and I’m playing bass in a brand-new project that doesn’t even have a name yet. (It’s pretty cool!) Soon I’ll be starting my radio show on slamlive.com. The fall-equinox edition of Weirdo Wednesday Supper Club will be September 18 at Davey’s Uptown. The lineup is fantastic! There is also talk of a Sister Mary Rotten Crotch reunion this year, as well as a possible American Catastrophe performance toward the end of 2013. Fun with old friends! Music and new adventures all around!
La Guerre
What’s new and what’s next?
Toured in July. I’ll also be recording a few live sessions, including my first Daytrotter as La Guerre, and I’m incredibly excited! I’m releasing an EP in August called Violent, and a full-length called Sapphires later this year. You know, keeping busy …
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Compliments of my boyfriend: “It’s exposed and vulnerable yet it’s countered by empowering vocals. There is soaring ambience cut by rhythmic keys and stirring melodies. What initially seems personal becomes a shared experience with the listener.”
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I love that everyone is generally supportive of each other and that there are a lot of opportunities for collaborations. I don’t like that I have to drive 45 minutes to get there!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Modern Vampires of the City by Vampire Weekend is tied with Tales of a GrassWidow by CocoRosie. Both are really innovative and have incredible sounds.
The best show I/we saw this year:
When Cowboy Indian Bear was touring in NYC this spring, we saw the album-release show for a woman named Xenia Rubinos. It was at a small club in Williamsburg that we had played the night before. There wasn’t a huge crowd, but she blew everyone away. She has just released her new album on Ba Da Bing Records, and it’s excellent.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Y[our] Fri[end] and Akkilles are two new acts that I’m really in love with. I’ve also really loved everything that Mat Shoare has been putting out. Notice that I can’t give just one answer for any of these. Our music scene is just too good!
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Margo May
What’s new and what’s next?
My sound is whatever I feel like making at the moment. Right now I am into chillwave, Italo disco and tropical beat. My next album is all electronic — I am so into it. European dance culture has captured my heart musically for the moment.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Basically like Hope Sandoval meets Enya meets Nine Inch Nails.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Uh, Kansas City is cool; everywhere is fine. Doesn’t matter where you live as long as you work hard. I have a huge crush on L.A.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Currently grooving to Zola Jesus, Grimes, Kleerup, BloodDiamonds, Sun Glitters, Glass Candy, Stevie Nicks, Chromatics, Kraftwerk, Kate Bush, Hannah Hurrle and MNDR.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Best live show this year would have to be MNDR in Columbia, Missouri. She was just DJing, but I respect her work ethic and everything she does. Badass chick.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Favorite local act is Kiana from Tilly and the Wall. I want her to release a solo album so bad! I would listen to the shit out of it!
Also nominated: Heidi Gluck
SINGER-SONGWRITER (MALE)
Ben Moats
What’s new and what’s next?
Since releasing an EP called Fathers and Sons last summer, I have been working to finish a full-length album called Slow Exit, which I hope to release in the fall.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Largely acoustic-driven with some minimal drums and instrumentation.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
As far as a local band is concerned, the ACBs’ Little Leaves has been my favorite album. As far as all albums released this year, I also like David Byrne and St. Vincent’s Love This Giant and Atoms for Peace’s Amok.
The best show I/we saw this year:
I just saw Wu-Tang Clan at the 80/35 music festival in Des Moines, which was a good show and an interesting experience. I also saw David Byrne and St. Vincent, which was also a great show.
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
The ACBs, Ghosty or Shy Boys
Erik Voeks
What’s new and what’s next?
Working on new songs to hopefully release before the year’s end. A north-east tour (Chicago, Boston, New York, etc.) with the Depth and the Whisper in early August. A Spain tour in mid-September.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
An amalgam of all I heard while growing up: power pop, psych, West Coast singer-songwriters, AM radio, skinny tie new wave and a little prog!
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
The wealth of fantastic artists/bands and their willingness to work together and support each other. Screw the “good old days” … these are the good present days!
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I’m presently stuck on the Pedaljets’ new album.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Richard Thompson at the Folly. Holy crap!
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Too many to list, but Hidden Pictures, the ACBs, Dead Voices, the Grisly Hand.
Mat Shoare
What’s new and what’s next?
In December, I released my new album, Domestic Partnership. I am still playing shows locally and regionally in support of that record and my previous ones. I am also working on a few future projects, one of which is a Harry Nilsson cover album, which I hope to release before the end of the year.
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In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Woof woof!
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
I like the enthusiasm that musicians, venues and promoters have for the local stuff that is going on right now. I think KC is a great starter city for musicians. In the coming years, it certainly has the potential to grow into a full-fledged music town of its own.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
The Beatles’ White Album
The best show I/we saw this year:
R. Stevie Moore at RecordBar
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Ross Brown
Ross Brown
What’s new and what’s next?
I’m working on a collection of songs that might end up being an album. Otherwise, I’ll just continue to play in bands.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Just trying to write good songs and do cool stuff.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
Like: There seems to be a growing enthusiasm and awareness about it. Dislike: Having to describe my sound.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
Al Stewart, “Year of the Cat.” Late to the game on this one.
The best show I/we saw this year:
Chris Cohen at Love Garden
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Shy Boys
Sam Billen
What’s new and what’s next?
I’m working on a new album — more acoustic-based, with slower, sadder songs. Talking with a label called Zap Records in London about releasing it. It should be coming out before next summer. Also, I’m staying busy doing music for commercial and film projects with Primary Color Music.
In 140 or fewer characters, my/our sound is …
Kind of pretty, kind of soft, kind of sleepy in your loft — listen with your headphones on, listen when you’re all alone.
What are you liking/not liking about the KC music scene right now?
What’s not to like about it? It’s a hotbed of great artists, lots of collaboration and energy, amazing new artists popping up all the time. I’m always proud to say I’m from the Lawrence/KC area.
The best song/album I/we heard this year:
I love the new ACBs and Cowboy Indian Bear albums. I also took a short trip to Japan last month and fell in love with the new Phoenix album when I was there. The slight Asian flare was so coincidental and perfect.
The best show I/we saw this year:
My good friend Josh Atkinson and I played a show around New Year’s at the Replay Lounge in Lawrence with Jordan Geiger, the ACBs and the Shy Boys — every act was awesome!
What’s your favorite local act at the moment?
Definitely too hard to answer with just one, so I’ll give you a little list: Shy Boys, the ACBs, Cowboy Indian Bear, Quiet Corral, Hidden Pictures, Heartscape Landbreak, the Republic Tigers (do we still call them local?), etc.
