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Local Artist Spotlight: Lenny Morris

  Do the phrases “hard working” and “living the dream” go together? For some lucky ones, they actually do.

Lenny Morris is one of the hardest working musicians around town, but to him, working hard at what you love is not work at all. He’s your average guy really; the football fan, poker playing, guitar strumming, Star Wars and video game dude. Raised by a single mother, Lenny never really knew his father, other than a brief phone call in his late teens when he found out his dad was living on the streets.

Lenny played over 100 shows last year alone, and still gets nervous a little each time he plays. It’s inspiring since he really never thought being a professional musician was possible. He’s worked his way through various management positions in the food and service industry, as well as visits through the world of insurance. But happily, he's found his place right here in San Diego, doing this thang up on stage.

So where do you stand with your dad now? How did you find him after all those years?

“We found him through his family and through a church. Found out he is a homeless alcoholic, and had been living on the streets for a few years in Washington state. He was able to talk because the church gave him a phone card and there was a pay phone near by. He promised he would stop drinking and change his ways, as the fact that I was a musician really made him feel proud. I even sent him a CD of me. His stint in rehab didn't last long. I haven't spoken to him since and have no idea if he's alive, to tell you the truth. But thanks to his absence, I didn't follow in his footsteps and head to prison.”

Did he ever get the CD? do u think u want to talk to him again ever?

“He did get the CD and told me how he bragged about me. It was bittersweet, obviously...”

What do u think about nervousness? Is it something that you like about playing music, or do you hope it goes away one day?

“I think I kind of like having it. Since it's not anything major, it keeps me kind of on edge. Keeps me striving for a perfect performance. I honestly always try my absolute best and a dash of nervousness definitely helps.”

What made you decide to turn to music full time?

“As a result of the economic downfall, I ended up being laid off from two different positions, albeit with severance. But when it all came down to it, the turning point came when I realized how to best utilize my time. I wasn't really passionate about working 160 hours a month managing a bunch of high schoolers making smoothies. It really just came down to the fact that I would much rather work less hours total and make more money doing what I love to do. I work very hard at what I do and I'm truly passionate about it. Truly. It also helps that I have a beautiful and wonderful and supporting wife who makes me want to work even harder so I can ultimately provide her with anything she could ever want.”

 

What do u do about health care now? Are you OK with going the rest of your life doing what you’re doing now if you didn't ever get any further?

“My wife has a great health care plan through her work, and I'm sure I'll eventually get my own plan down the line. I've never had medical insurance on a regular basis, it is what it is. I make a lot of phone calls, write a lot of emails. Do a lot of self marketing. I can't ever really relax because of it. I'm always thinking about my next move, my next gig, my next performance, my next song. But it really is worth it. Even if i don't "make it", I have no problem doing what I'm doing now full time.”

 

What’s the best thing about it?

“I get to entertain people, watch kids smile, partake in special moments, hang out with friends and family, eat and drink. I'm blessed to be able to confidently say I'm a professional musician. Money isn't everything. But when you have a wife and a desire to have kids, priorities are there. So I take my business very seriously and I know what I'm worth. And I know what a wonderful future for my wife is worth. I will continue to work hard and try and push my message along the way.”

What are your favorite kinds of venues to play?

 

“Honestly, it just depends. I love playing venues where everyone is staring at you and you have the full audiences attention. It gives me the opportunity to really showcase what I'm about and engage with the audience a little. I also like the freedom of playing in a restaurant environment where 50-60 people are eating dinner. I can just kind of play whatever I want and turn some heads when I play something that hits a chord with a particular demographic."

 

What kind of stuff do you play when it's a small private event where people are are mingling and doing stuff, eating, and TALKING, but you are supposed to be playing?

 

“When it's a private event, like a wedding or engagement dinner, I try and keep it classy. I like to play stuff that people know. I'll pull out Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, you name it. When I have the audiences attention, I will play my own stuff, maybe something where I'm saying something important and I really want them to delve into my thought process. "Take A Stand" is one of those songs for me. I wrote it with the idea of being an "anthem" for all artists. My band has a blast playing that song. We really let loose and it definitely is a representation of our original music.”

How do you think your music career will change after you decide to have kids?

"When I have the opportunity to become a Father, I'm going to work even harder that I am now (if that's even possible). All I know is that the chance to become a parent and hold my child in my arms is something I greatly look forward to. I can't wait. I know we will have to wait a little longer than anticipated, but the motivation to give that child the best life possible will be insurmountable. every week as an outlet. My wife has been to every show she can possibly make and having her by my side has been the best thing a man could ever ask for."

I think a lot of people can relate to something you said : “I don’t think a lot of people have the patience for the business side. Most musicians just want to play music.” What advice can you give musicians to get in touch with the serious side of being a musician?

“The best advice I can give is this: No matter what else music represents, never forget that music is also a BUSINESS. If you forget that for one second, you might as well get out of the industry right now and try something else. Utilize your time intelligently, logically, and to the best of your ability. Playing music at restaurants may not give you the particular attention you desire, but the experience gained is almost priceless. Hours of stage time, extra practice, the ability to meet anybody and make a connection, etc. And of course the ability to generate full time income. If you do it right, it's almost a no-brainer. I have a lot more mental freedom than I would if I was working 8 hours  a day, 5 days a week at a job I couldn't care less about. Believe me, I've been there. Hopefully, I'll never have to go back.”  

Well he doesn't have to go back! Seems like he's on the high road to success through good ol' fashioned hard work. Hear hear. Check him out this Wednesday night at the Go Lounge at 8pm.

Local Artist Spotlight: Robert Bondurant

Now here’s something you don’t find everyday: A San Diego local musician who actually grew up in. . . San Diego! This local boy worked his way through obsessions such as moonwalking and breakdancing to magic shows, all before even reaching high school. But that’s when his greatest obsession hit. Now Robert Bondurant is taking SD by storm at night playing shows, while working on the upcoming release of his EP by day, set to be available on June 17th.

This guys got some honest answers. I was a little surprised and of course very pleased... especially the bit about when “newbies” feel competitive. Read on, you’ll see what I mean.

So you’re a talented musician now, but you had your fair share of hobbies growing up huh?

"My first real obsession was when I was 9 yrs old, I saw Michael Jacksons "Moonwalker" on TV. That was it for me. I started learning all the dance moves and dressing like him and listening to all his music. I made my own "BAD" jacket once and wore it EVERYWHERE!  

After a couple years...I saw David Blaine's "Street Magic" on TV. Next thing you know I am well on my way to trying to have my own Street Magic show on TV and Vegas. That was what I wanted to do in life.

Although I went through different hobbies growing up, music was always there, and I think that single moment in my young life resonates through me still. The first time I really had a guitar in the house was when we moved into my stepdad's place around 7th grade for me. It wasn't until sophmore year of High School, after seeing his old guitar sitting dusty in the corner for years, I finally asked if he would teach me a couple chords."

So you’re hitting it hard then, music as a career?

"About two years ago, before I started working on my album, I was working 3 jobs and trying to save up money for the record. I got to a point where I decided that if I were going to "make it" in this industry...I am going to have to take the wheel and make it happen for myself! So I quit my jobs and started playing music full time. That meant I had to network and play the role of manager and business man as well as performer. I also did a lot of listening and observing of my music industry surroundings and realized that if I want to make a record that is at the same level of an artist signed to a major label, it was possible to do it myself! I wanted to make my first record in a way that brought out the best of my abilities and be the best it can possibly be! All I needed was the right people, right musicians, and a whole lot of money!" 

So when you made the decision to quit your jobs, did you have a bunch of money saved up? Did you make sure every gig you booked was payed?

"I didn't have a bunch of money saved up but I didnt make that choice completely irresponsibly. I had enough to not put myself in a hole, although it wasn't much haha. I had a couple payed gigs already and that was when I realized I could potentially book enough payed gigs to make enough money as with my other 2 jobs. So I networked as much as I could and met some really good people who helped and pointed me in the right direction. Now I have a band that I can book for gigs as well as playing solo acoustic. All paid gigs at bars and restaurants."

Any advice for those people who have financial responsibilities and can't really take off their "real" jobs or pay for high quality recording?

"Obviously bills have to be paid and mouths have to be fed. I took a good look at my surroundings and asked a lot of people what they really wanted to do in life and unfortunately they were doing something completely different. I felt like it was something out of a movie. I just did not want to be one of those people who waited too long to strive for their dream. When I say strive I mean really digging in deep and giving it every ounce of your strength, blood, sweat and tears, teeth and nail, fighting for your life! If anyone adopts that mentality about something they want to do, they become a very powerful person."  

So how long has it taken you to get this album ready?

"It has been a year in the making and things are finally starting to be finished! In that time, however, the only real music I have had online for people to listen to were some old demo recordings. They were very outdated as far as my growth as a singer, songwriter, and musician. They weren't really helping me out as far as growing a fan base. So I decided to record and release an official acoustic EP. The EP, "Still Standing" consists of 5 songs that I were actually written far more recently than the songs on my next record haha. Funny the way it works."

Why Still Standing?

"I actually titled my EP "Still Standing" in reference to all the hard work, stress, depression, ups, downs, blood, sweat, and tears, that have been put into making the big record, all while trying to make a living playing music and promote myself as an artist. Anyway, I am really proud and excited to actually have a record! Even though its only acoustic, the songs are very personal to me and are my first real stamp of validity as a local singer-songwriter. San Diego...I'm Here!!"

I listened to some from your website. Is the one about the mother a personal experience?

"Through Her Eyes" is really more of a story expressing the importance of the role that mothers play on their children. I used my relationship with my mom as a reference, however, the song still needed to be finished. I wanted the song to flow as the cycle of life so the last verse of the song refers to her passing away but her influence, her love, is still there. It is something that I know one day I will be faced with as will many others."

I noticed you have a lot of covers on your youtube, is that something you did before you were writing your own songs? 

" My Youtube is really set up more for fun. You see a lot of covers because I don't want people's first impression of my material coming from a live unplugged video. Back in the day the "Unplugged" version usually came out long after the record. I feel unplugged versions are more appreciated that way. I've been writing since I was 17.

So now my goals are set on getting OUT of the bar circuit and actually play some real shows where people like to listen. There's only so many times you can have someone yell, "FREEBIRD" at you before you wanna smash your guitar on their head.....and I need my guitar!"

 

That's hilarious, what do you do when people call out for covers you're sick of, do u play them? What's your favorite bar to play so far? Maybe one that is not so bad!

"Honestly, my playlist of covers is so random that most of the time when people call them out, I don't know it anyway. Haha I don't usually get a lot of requests anyway, which I guess means they generally must like what I'm playing. One of my favorite bars to play at is Prospect Bar in La Jolla. The owners are really supportive of local music and good to the performers. I have also gotten booked for a lot of other gigs from playing there as well"

 

 

So you’d say networking is pretty crucial to your success as a musician?

"To me, I think it's really important to meet other artists and make connections with people. There seems to be this unspoken reservation of competition between performers and I don't think it's healthy for anyone...especially the local music scene as a whole."

What makes you think this? I experience a lot of camaraderie, so I'm just curious what your experiences have been?

"It is a conversation I have had with many songwriters in San Diego and they have all agreed. I will openly tell you that when I was starting out, it was about who's better than who and who can I be better than, etc. Of course, you're not supposed to tell people that because its a shitty way to be and it could just be a personal issue of insecurity as an artist and being an overall prick. Come to find out, I'm not the only one.

It is a phase that takes time and maturity to grow out of. San Diego's music scene is here, it just needs a little more work. This is a great city with great people in it, but its going to take all of us as a musical community to create a bigger draw for our performers"

 

Well you heard him right people, come together as a community!

If you want more info on Robert's upcoming EP, check him out online here.

By Tracy Petrucci

 

 

Local Artist Spotlight: Melly Frances & The Distilled Spirits

You think you have soul? Well, you might not have as much as Melly Frances and the Distilled Spirits, who sport the motto “I’ve got more soul than you” on their debut album Nine Pound Hammer Heart.

Melly’s a twenty-something soul singer who wanted to bring together a band so she could ditch the guitar and open mics, and focus on singing her heart out. She gathered together Tom Cusimano who plays the six and twelve strings and slide guitar, Murf McCree on harmonicas, Matt –aka- Bruno on bass, and Matt Miller on the drums.

We’re talking to Melly today to learn a little more about this new SD local group. And trust you me, they are worth listening to.

 

So you've got quite the plethora of genres under your belt- how does a 27 year old have so much experience?

“I love classic vocalists from Bessie Smith & Billie Holiday to Etta James to Robert Plant and everything in between, it has had a huge influence on my range since it was such a variety of music.”

How long have you been singing?

“In front of people since I was 22, but I have always sung. But I was too shy to get in front of people prior to that.

Oh that’s tough, how did you get over your shyness?

 “Mostly at parties and karaoke.”

So this statement is kind of bold: "Ive got more soul than you do," what makes someone have "soul" in your opinion?

 “Soul in the song is about what you as a person know/feel in yourself and having the courage to do what you really should do based on those things, regardless of what others think. People with soul in music or politics are the ones that have the guts to stand on their own and do what they believe is right.”

 Who are some people in music and politics you believe have soul in this sense?

“Music-wise: Nina Simone, Eddie Vedder, Van Morrison, Ray LaMontagne, Otis Redding. Political: General population that lobbies for change in environmental & equality policies.”

 

What kind of music were you listening to in your youth compared to now?

 “Growing up I listened to a lot of country (classic like Johnny Cash & Emmylou Harris) but now it’s a mix of things; a lot of Rock'n'roll mostly, for instance "Sleepy Sun" & "Dead Confederates" & "The Black Crowes" & “Led Zeppelin."

What are your plans as a band? Do you want to stay local or are you planning to tour eventually?

 “As a band we have great ambitions, we would love to tour nationally/internationally, but know that it is a building process. Right now we are focusing on getting bigger and better gigs so we can get in front of more people and hopefully by doing that we get to tour.”

Well you guys sound really good, I’m sure you'll be there in no time. Is it hard to balance playing shows with life's other responsibilities?

“That is always difficult, none of us are wealthy so we all work varies jobs, temp, etc that equate to full-time jobs. And a few of us have significant others, so the first thing is to find what times work for rehearsal regularly, which we have down to a once or twice a week thing. Gigs aren't as often right now, but we are working on it, and will always make time for gigs!”

Tell me a bit about the name- The distilled spirits are supposed to signify what about the rest of the band?

“Distilled Spirits is a combo of a free spirit attitude and the extra curricular activity drinking habits with a mix of the fact that the Distilled Spirits just sounds cool!”

So you're writing all of the songs? Where are you coming up with content mostly? Obviously some of the lyrics have a country twang, and living in SD we don't see a lot of bootlegger's balls or farms. What inspires the songs?

“I do write the songs, they are a combination of places I've been, what I've done, but all with a twist for the sake of a good story. I cite Emmylou Harris and Johnny Cash's, and the blues greats ability to tell a great story as major influences. Bessie Smith is a huge influence on a song like "He Caught Fire".

What is the most serious song on the album and what is it about?

“All I Seen - is about when I once saw a guy get shot in Golden Hill, obviously a very shocking experience!”

Can you tell me one interesting thing about each band member we otherwise might never know?

“Melly - Is not technically a US citizen, but is here legally!

Murf - Never wears shoes

Matt - Always uses his blinker

Bruno -  Is an avid rock climber

Tom - Once lost all of his belongings in a U-Haul fire in the middle of a highway

Alright people, Melly and her gang are working their way up to hopefully playing at Humphrey’s soon… but in the mean time, you can catch them this Sunday night at the HOB Homegrown show. It’s house of blues, it’s Americana, it’s free, what’s not to love?

Maybe Mels (that’s what I’ve decided to call her) will even bring her awesome dog Zero. See you there.

By Tracy Petrucci

Local Artist Spotlight: Jelly Bread

What does a Nevada barber shop and good ol’ fashioned gospel music have in common?

One great band named Jelly Bread. The divergent musicians began jamming and rehearsing in the back of Reno’s Top Notch Barber Shop. Two of the members, drummer/singer Cliff Porter and bass player Brady Carthen, were seasoned gospel band members since youth. Cliff played the drums since the age of 5 and Kevin Stewart (on keys) studied jazz his whole life. The band is also made up of Dave Berry and Michael Grayson, both handling vocals and guitar.

So some of these guys obviously had quite a musical background, but what made you (Dave) decide to start playing music?

“Eddie Vedder made me want to write songs, & Ben Harper is who influenced me to pick up the guitar & learn to play some lap steel & dobro. I was an art student in college, but just never felt like it was fulfilling enough. But the first time I put a couple notes ( & I mean literally 2 notes) together on my roommates guitar, I knew there was nothing else I wanted to do in life besides make music.”

Who writes most of the songs?

“I (Dave) write most of the songs. But on our new record is really a collaboration of different songwriters in the band; myself, cliff & mike our other guitarist wrote a couple with us.”

What is the song TOP NOTCH about?

“It's about trying to convince someone to take a leap of faith with you. In our case it was me convincing the guys to quit all the other bands & projects they were in to pursue Jelly Bread full time, & do something that we all considered to be a "top notch" project. It's a love song. Leave what doesn't make you happy & focus on something that can!”

So are you guys able to do this for a living?

“Four of the five of us do this for a living. But it ain't quite paying the bills yet. The fifth guy is just finishing school with a degree in engineering, so he doesn't do road trips with us yet. We're trying to build it so this is ALL we do, as of now I still do solo gigs, paint houses here and there for extra $, cliff DJs & produces other musicians, Brady umpires high school & city league softball, & our keyboard player Kevin does a lot of jazz gigs on the side. But we're in a good position as far as no one has a real 9-5 so we can gig & tour whenever the opportunity arises.”

Touring is fun, where’s your favorite place to play? Where do you want play that you have not yet?

“Our favorite places to play so far have been Crystal Bay Club in N. Tahoe, always great crowds there, and the Boom Boom room in SF, legendary spot. We really want & NEED to break into the festival scene. Got our sights set on High Sierra Music Festival, Harmony Fest, & a few others.”

Why are music festivals important to you guys?

“Festivals are important because we think that's where our niche is. People go to festivals expecting a wide variety of music, wanting to dance. We cover a lot of ground musically, not intentionally, that's just the way it happens. And we always lay down the groove. I mean we've play with bands from Jonny Lang, Ivan Nevilles, Dumpstaphunk, G Love, Big Head Todd & The Monsters, to Snoop dogg, Soulive, Zion Roots & The Young Dubliners.”

Zion Roots to Snoop Dogg? That’s quite a range. Where does your music fit in best?

“We're called a funk band but don’t really think we fit completely in there. Everything we do is at least a lil’ funky, but we're songwriters who love to jam. Like we say on our upcoming CD, "funk ain't got no dresscode.” We tour quite a bit as a trio, bass/guitar/drums. Not always enough $ for the other guitar & keys, but we bring it all when we can. Cliff and myself do the singing, people are always blown away that a drummer with his chops can blow like he does. This is where our true love lies.”

What are most of your songs about? Do you still sing about God?

“I'd say most of our songs are about life, dealing with struggles, relationships, being musicians, & love. We're not much for being fictional writers, everything comes from something real in our various lives. As far as singing about God, God is love & yes we sing about love. Cliff & Brady still play at their church every Sunday we're not on tour or gigging, but gospel is "the good news" & the good news for us is being blessed with the opportunity and ability to make music, so it still is gospel music, we just save the praising for Sundays :)”

I listened to change, what kinds of things do you guys do to make the kind of changes you want to see in the world?

“I think change comes at home, within yourself first and foremost. That's what change is about... Not sitting around bitchin’ about the world but making positive changes in your own world, which encompasses our own heads, homes, hearts, families & expanding from there.”

Well I certaintly want to follow this band, not mention the path of the impressive recent college grad! This is some feel-good, sound-good music folks. Come feel the love when Jelly Bread hits the San Diego scene and plays at the House of Blues this Sunday, May 1^st. And you heard em, “funk aint got no dresscode” so you don’t even need to dress up! No excuses this time.  Tracy Petrucci

Local Artist Spotlight: For The Faint

Who from San Diego is really from San Diego? Well, some of us are. But there’s a bigger growing population of great local musicians who have decided on sunny SD as their final destination. Chris Zach from the duo For The Faint worked his way west from Minnesota and first tried LA, but a train ride south to Sunset Cliffs left him with a lust to move no more.

Kyle Pflueger is his right hand man, and the Christian pair has no problem including their faith in the music. And although Chris doesn’t necessarily feel influenced by many Christian musicians, we heard the likes of some other popular talent within that genre, think Jeremy Camp for one.

The band’s going to try a west coast tour soon, but in the mean time you can find Chris strumming some tunes on the fine beaches around OB, passing along some positivity everywhere he goes. If you want to know what I mean, just read on and feel the positive vibes yourself.

 

Lets take it back to the beginning for a minute. Why guitar?

 

“I started playing when I was 18.  Me and my best friend were hanging out one night and he busted out his guitar and played my favorite Blink 182 song and 5 minutes later I was playing the same song.  I woke up the next day and gave him $30 and bought my first guitar. Music got me through a lot in life and I've always been fascinated by song writing, and how in 3 minutes a few lyrics and an instrument can flip your world around.  As soon as I realized I could create noise on my own I couldn't put my guitar down.”

 

So is it something you want to make a career out of, or are you content just chilling with it as a hobby?

“I'm finishing up an EP with my buddy Kyle... and I plan on having this EP take me around the country, and eventually around the world.  If I could wake up everyday and play music for the rest of my life that would be amazing and in 2012 I plan on starting to play around the country.  Even if its one song that helps someone or inspires someone to give life a try I'll continue to write music and make this hobby my life/job.”

How did you decide on where to go when you want to tour? What’s the process to take on something like that at this stage of your career?

“We will probably start out traveling through the west coast from Seattle and make our way through the bay area, LA, and back to SD.  I've met a lot of musicians over the last 3 years playing live and hope to use my knowledge with internet marketing to help promote us online.  Any suggestions?”

Suggestions from me? Um... work hard and don’t be superficial in your networking, the world has enough of those people already.

Who are some of your musical influences?

“Hands down my biggest musical influence is Jon Foreman of the band Switchfoot (He is the only "Christian" artist that I look up to musically that influences my writing).  He has a similar outlook on life that I do and you can tell when he writes he a song he exposes his entire heart and world.  Stevie Ray Vaughan - in my opinion greatest guitarist to ever live and played with more passion and harder than any guitarist I've ever heard.  Dave Matthews Band - incredibly talented musicians that are lyrically the Bob Dylan of my generation, also the best live show I've ever seen.”

What are your thoughts on including your faith in music? Is it something you do just when you feel like it, or is something you want to do always as a philosophy?

“I write about things that I can't fully comprehend; God, life, women, and hope.  God is a huge part of my life and my lyrics a lot of the time tend to reflect my beliefs but my main message is to share my life with other people.  I love encouraging people, giving people hope, and I love where I'm at in my life so I think its selfish of me to not share that with other people.  I hope its transparent in my music and putting words behind a six-string is a powerful way of expressing that.  At the end of the day I want my music to challenge people and force them to not settle for a complacent life.  I have a lot of people in my life that go through far worst things than I have ever been through or will ever go through so I'm writing songs for the hopeless.  I wrote a song called "Welcome to the Good Life" and it was about knowing people who don't get to experience what I do on a daily basis and there are only a few things I need to make me who I am so I end the song with "all I need is Jesus, and my six-string, with a little bit of love, welcome to the good life."

Yeah I don't fully understand women either.  Oh wait, I meant men. You say they've been through worse things than you have or ever will, but what about if a time comes when you do actually go through something that bad? Do you think your music could take a turn to reflect the times or do you feel you could just never feel hopeless and will always be able to be positive?

“I've always been an optimistic guy and I'm at the point in my life where I will continue to surround myself with positive people, friends that make me a better person, and continue to challenge myself in anyway that I can.  I know life will take a turn at some point and I'll go through some down times but I've got way too many things to keep me grounded and that hope will never die because I'm alive, and that's a good enough start.  I won't battle drug addiction, I'm not struggling with anything from my childhood, and we live in a nasty world and not everyone looks through the world with the same lens that I do.  So I figure if I keep being me God will take care of the rest.”

 

Yeah it does sound like you’ve been living a pretty charmed life thus far. Any challenges since you made the move to SD?

“The first year in San Diego was one of the most rough years of my life.  I moved out here with a girl I thought I was going to marry and then one day she broke up with me, packed up her stuff and was gone. I really struggled financially during this time and did a fair share of partying, and locked myself in my room and played guitar.  It was incredibly difficult but it was through these times that I started putting covers on Youtube and started getting people from all over the world telling me I had a gift and I needed to write my own music.  I wouldn't trade this year back for anything because I don't know if I would've ever played music live if it never happened.”

 

So what does "For the Faint" signify?

“I love when bands have a name that captures their sound and it’s difficult to do.  Me and Kyle have a similar view on life and a desire to be there for people and encourage people.  We were talking one night about how people have unrealistic goals for themselves and people like to dream big but their goal is sometimes intangible.  He said instead of changing the world with our music why don't we try and change the world we live in.  If we can affect the lives of people in San Diego, or the people we interact with on a daily basis, that's a good start.  I see people living underneath the OB pier, homeless people begging for food, and I see people with 9-5 jobs that are completely miserable with where they are at in life.  For the faint is for the faint of heart and people who are struggling to survive.  Instead of just surviving I want to teach them and encourage them to thrive with where they are at.  In other words we are hopeful for the hopeless.

Well it’s an interesting perspective that people can dream too big, and I’m not sure everyone would agree, however these guys seem to have a good thing going and an attitude that backs up a quote I’ve always liked, “grow where you’re planted.”

Lots to think about here, and it's cool that they know what they believe in and it doesn't sound like they're going to compromise that. And by the way, you heard them- any tour suggestions? Contact Chris at their next show, this Tuesday night at the House of Blues downtown SD... 7pm sharp!

Local Artist Spotlight: Fish Food

When I used to hear the words fish food, I would automatically think of Ben and Jerrys. But this kind of fish food is just as good. The band, also known as the Blonde Brothers, is made up of Chris Devito on guitar, Jake Nuffer on guitar and vocals, Hunter Bragg on drums and Josh LaRocco on bass and lead vocals.

The boys are music students of Glen Fisher, a world class musician from Ocean Beach who has helped the guys jam to a more affluent sound. We got a few questions to the guys to see how they got such a great start...

 
Was it difficult to start a band or were you guys already friends before?

“We did know each other before the creation of Fish Food. To be honest, starting the band wasn't that hard. It started with a gig at a fundraiser. After that, we just kept playing together and before we knew it, we had a band. I guess we have it easier than most considering we all     play the same type of music. The fact that we were so familiar with each others styles and songs made it a lot easier to put a prize winner together.”

Is there anyone you look up to in the music industry?

“Glen Fisher and his brother Mark are major influences on our band and we really look up to them and the guys and gals that play with them. A lot of bands may look up to some of the bands you see and hear on the radio or tv, but if you look around at some of the musicians that we have in San Diego you would be surprised at the talent that is here and how long some of them have been playing the local scene.

Do you want to make a career out of music?

“Of course we would love to make a career out of music, but we know how hard it is to actually have that dream come true. If Fish Food goes no farther than the local club scene, so be it. We have fun playing and the fact that we can play a club and have the over 21 crowd come out and watch us instead of choosing another club and another band to watch tells us we may be doing something right. We have fun playing and that carries over to the crowd that comes out to see us.”

How do you develop a fan base?

“A couple of years ago the novelty was some 10 year olds jamming in a band, now we actually have earned the respect of the older crowd and when we send out an invite people show up because they know we are going to rock the songs instead of just playing them.
   
“We actually love playing Cathryn's gigs because a lot of the people that come out and watch us are musicians as well and seem to appreciate what we do and always have such positive comments after the shows.”

Do you guys write your own songs?
   
“We have been working with Glen on a couple of his originals which is helping us learn how to write our own songs. We have a couple of ideas we've worked on, but our focus right now is
working with Glen on his songs.

What do you guys do when you're not playing music?
   
“We have hobbies. Chris water ski's and is rated in the top of the Juniors United States rankings. Jake plays baseball and is a rock climber. Hunter plays center field on his high school baseball team and Josh surfs on the Point Loma High School surf team, he is currently rated number 1 in San Diego.”

When do you make time to practice being so busy with school and other hobbies?

“We practice every Monday night at Glen's house, and before a gig we will get together once or twice to run through the set.”

Where do you hope to play in SD that you haven't yet?

“As of now, we have done a bunch of major venues in San Diego, including various clubs in downtown as well as Petco Park. So as of now, the goal is to really play anywhere that is going to get us noticed.”

Well if you want to see Fish Food for yourselves, check them out this Saturday at House of Blues as part of the "Rock Stars on The Rise" show featuring young SD performers.  Contact fish food here for more details.    by Tracy Kinnaman Petrucci

Local Artist Spotlight: Beggar and the Pen

Known for mid song tempo changes and a modern folky vibe, Luke Petrucci from Beggar and The Pen is leading the way in the San Diego heartthrob scene. But don’t get too excited ladies, he’s a married man with a new baby girl in tow.

Three friends makes up the group; Dano on bass, Jimbo on djimbe, and Luke on guitar/vocals. Unfortunately the three amigos have been moving around different parts of Southern California, so they can only play some of their shows as the full group.

You might find them jamming on the sands of Ocean beach or under a tree in Balboa Park, or even really early in their pj’s recording a “morning melody.” This Tuesday night however, they’ll be gracing our presence in one of our favorite downtown venues, House of Blues. I thought I’d start off the questioning with an age old favorite...

I’m sure everyone wants to know, what does Beggar and the Pen mean?

“It originates from a song  we wrote a few years ago, but there is somewhat of a double meaning behind the name.  One view is that we are all beggars learning how to live in a world that has written out guide lines for us.  The other refers to the pen being the songs that we write.  Sort of our journal.”

When did music become that sort of “journalistic” role in your life?

"My parents always wanted me to be involved in a hobby. They didn't care what it was as long as I was passionate in it.  I started at a young age playing baseball and continued for many years.  By the time I had reached high school I was ready for something new and my parents bought me my first guitar.  I started playing an inexpensive electric guitar for a few years.  I was very into hard rock/metal.  Ironically I mostly play the acoustic guitar now and am more inclined to listen to a more mellow sound.  I think my writing became more of a journalistic style when i picked up the acoustic. I felt more at home with the sound I was creating and wrote more about what I was going through instead of some cut and paste trendy styled lyrics."

So what was your fave band when you were say, 16 years old?

"The Locust"

Yeah, that’s definitely not a soft mellow sound. Genres seem to always be evolving these days, but which do you see yourself fitting in the best?

“I would say we are somewhere in the genre of acoustic/folk.  We branch off a bit into some other alternative genres with some of our songs but I think folk is where we find our home.”

Do you listen to, or have you been influenced by any of the folk singers of the past?

“I haven't listened to a lot of folk music before the turn of the century that I can say really influenced me, except  some Bob Dylan.  I am however influenced a lot by three individuals in the present day.  They are, Ben Gibbard, Conor Oberst, and Jon Foreman.”

Who’s playing all those instruments in your songs? Is that you? 

“I am definitely a guitarist before anything else.  I have branched out and learned some other instruments like, the banjo, mandolin, harmonica, and a bit of tinkering on the piano.”

I recognize some Christian belief references in some of your songs, how does faith play into your songwriting?

“I have a lot of questions about people and their connection with different religions.  I notice some things that I do in my daily walk that contradict my Christian values and I bring those imperfections out in my songs.”

What are morning melodies?

“The Morning Melodies are a collection of instrumentals that Jimbo and myself have written.  We made these songs into videos that take place in San Diego and go up the coast to San Francisco.  They were made to accompany a person enjoying their morning cup of joe.  Just a nice positive tune to start the day."

 

Do you want to make music your career?

“I do want to make a career out of music and I am trying to get noticed more in San Siego, but whether or not I make a career out of it writing/playing music will always be apart of who I am.”

I know you just had a baby, how has that changed your ability to play music? Do you play for her? 

“My little OGP is amazing!!  I probably don't play music quite as often as I did before but I wouldn't change that for anything.  I have played for her a few times and plan on playing for her much more in the future.”

Maybe she will be a little musician too, does your wife sing?

“Yeah, I met my wife at the E street cafe in Encinitas.  I used to play there a lot but had taken a break since moving to San Diego.  One night I decided to make the drive to my favorite coffee shop and play a few new songs I had written. As I waited to play, two lovely ladies went onstage and performed an amazing set.  I was particularly interested in one of ladies, and as fate would have it she had an eye for me as well.  We ended up hitting it off pretty well that night and about after a year of dating we got hitched.  Now our lovely daughter, Olive, gets to enjoy some tunes from both of her musically inclined parents.”

So what’s next? What venue in San Diego do you want to play at that you haven't yet? 

“My goal is to play at The Belly Up.  It is probably my favorite venue in San Diego County.”

Well in the mean time while we wait for the Belly Up to come knockin’, check out Beggar and the Pen this Tuesday night, February 15th at the House of Blues. Also see their goods at beggarandthepen.com

Local Artist Spotlight: Sister Speak

Who would have thought that a girl from the dry desert of Temecula and a field hockey player from Canada would connect in the windy city of Chicago? Sherri-Anne and Sam met at an open mic called “The Globe” and decided their musical talents could only be better by joining forces. Their name was chosen when the girls misheard the lyrics to a U2 song and “cease to speak” became “Sister Speak”.

Singing songs inspired by love, friendship, and the state of the world, the two have turned their musical outlet into an actual dream come true career. Well, that’s because they live in sunny San Diego now instead of freezing ass cold Chicago. Let’s see what they have to say about it though.  

Are there lots of good open mic venues in Chicago?

(Sher) Yes there is an open mic every single night in the city, and always a fun one to go to! Some of our  favourites are ‘Underground Wonderbar’ and the ones a woman named “Stolie” hosts, like the ‘Globe.’ Sometimes when I was feeling really emotional I would just call up a cab or get on the train with my guitar and go to an open mic and play my heart out. I LOVE Chicago for that!

How did you muster up the courage to drag your guitars out of the house during the winter? That must take a lot of motivation?! That city is cold.

(Sam) Yeah, it does get cold there! Because it’s so cold, you kinda do what you gotta do as far as work goes, and then stay inside as much as you can. Most of the musicians and artist I know in Chicago, write and create the most during the winter. When it’s sunny and beautiful outside, it’s difficult to make yourself sit down and write. So it’s actually pretty easy to get the courage to still make it out to open mics and gigs, even when its 10 degrees and snowing. You want to share what you’re creating.

(Sher) Even in the winter the passion takes over. In the cold life can get lonely and almost depressing, and writing music and playing live is my solice. We have both probably written more songs in the winter (in Chicago/British Columbia) than in any other season.

How long had you known each other before touring the country for that long?  Was it hard ever, did you ever bicker being on the road that long?

(Sher) We’d known each other for about 2 years before the 11,000 mile North America tour. Sometimes we were traveling 8-10 hours then playing that night as soon as we pulled up to the venue. We definitely got in some good fights, but once we got on stage it was easy to forget why we were ever arguing, and just play.  We have a powerful connection, so even if we bicker, we are quick to forgive. Music is about  reaching people, powerfully, and we have to get over our own frustrations and let the music speak if we really want to do that.

How did you guys get into playing music in the first place?

(Sam) - I grew up in the church and played on our worship team. I learned guitar and after a couple years started singing. I learned how to work with a band and other musicians. After a while of doing that, I started writing my own songs and playing them at open mics and doing small gigs here and there. I was living in Temecula at that time and was still in High School. I planned after graduating to move to Chicago. I still don’t really know why I went. In hindsight, it was not the wisest thing to do, but I did and am glad I had the experience. Living in Chicago was where I made the decision to really give my music a chance.

(Sher) - When I was in high school in Canada my brother and I would write and play a lot together, and my family would have jams at gatherings. This is where I learned to harmonize. My brother really helped me to get up the confidence to sing in front of people and start writing. It was really the open mics in BC(Canada) and Chicago that got me out playing in front of people and with other musicians, and helped me break out of my shell. Once I got to Chicago, the music scene was so vibrant I couldn’t help but start to really share my songs and experiences through the music.

Was it hard to leave your passion for field hockey for music?

(Sher) When I was in University, music was my outlet. I had a very tumultuous journey at Northwestern as a student and varsity athlete (my first album sums it up pretty well). Once I graduated, I worked in Chicago for little while. I saw Missy Higgins play and it inspired me so much that I took a life shift and just started playing music and threw myself in to it almost overnight. It was a natural evolution but it was tough in some aspects to make the shift, when I was obsessed with field hockey for about 7 years. My purpose called though and I had no choice internally to do anything but play music. Playing with Sam has made the change very easy. It’s amazing playing with her!

Any musicians you get compared to?

(Sam) Yes, and we have heard some bizarre comparisons too. We hear Indigo Girls and Teagen & Sara quite often (probably simply because we are a female duo). Just the other day someone (who was drunk) told me I sounded “exactly” like Katy Perry, which is a bit far fetched. And one of my favorites for Sher was in Sonoma when a friend in the crowd overheard a man yell, “This is like Jewel on acid.”

What’s your favorite place you have played in SD and where do you still WANT to play?

We’ve played quite a few venues in San Diego, and have had really mixed feelings about certain places. My personal favorite shows have been at the more intimate venues where people are really there to listen. Java Jones was surprisingly one of our favorite gigs in the city, and we’re stoked for Humphrey’s, IndieFest 2011 and H.O.B. We are keeping our eyes on Belly Up. That room is awesome!

Check out SISTER SPEAK this Tuesday night at HOUSE OF BLUES!

By Tracy Petrucci

Artist Spotlight: Troubadours of Divine Bliss

The Troubadours of Divine Bliss are just what they say they are... I think. I know they are living on a 30 acre solar paneled ranch in Kentucky with no running water. Divine bliss? Check. I know they travel the world playing two instruments and three chords only (although their tracks have picked up some many other fancy finger picking and a violin). Divine bliss there? Definitely check. And they don’t even need other jobs to support themselves! Divine bliss all around.

For the past 13 years they’ve been touring the globe and spreading the love...

You two have known each other for a quite a while- 26 years is a long time! How did you get back in touch and start this band?

“We were both seeking to do what we love. Aim Me asked Renee if she wanted to move to New Orleans and become street performers so Renee quit her corporate job and we became Troubadours of Divine Bliss without knowing how to play our instruments and without having written a single song.”

So if you didn't know how to play instruments or write songs, how did u know this is what you loved?

“We knew we wanted to free our dreams so we knew we had to give them wings by taking the leap and learning to play on the fly.”

So what kind of music were u listening to that inspired u to turn into musicians yourselves?

“We listen to and love all music and have been inspired by many artists and genres.  Much of our favorite music comes from our friends who are indie artists themselves.”

The songs have a nice full sound, do you play lots of instruments now?

“Guitar and accordion”

Did you ever decide to learn more than 2 chords?

“We know 3 now...haha”

Where is your favorite place you've EVER been and played?

“The International Festival of Music in Belfort, Fance........... or on the street in New Orleans, on the streets of Zurich or Barcelona or at Heine Bros in Louisville,KY”

How do you dive in to touring internationally?

“Our favorite way to tour internationally is to street perform.  Busking in Europe is a great tradition and greatly honored.  We also apply for festivals which have introduced us to great audiences.  The first time we went we got one way tickets and did not have an itinerary...we just busked our way through 6 countries in 6 months.”

Where have you not played that you would still like to?

“Hum.... Everywhere we have not played. Jazzfest in New Orleans, Australia, Hawaii, Lyons Folk Fest...

What's your affiliation with San Diego?

“The Beeks...Cathryn Beeks. She is the Kevin Bacon of the music world in San Diego. We love her and her music, she is amazing. We met her on a magical front porch encounter one evening in Cleveland. Then around a fire in the Rocky Mountains. Then at a soul-shakin night of music in Boulder where Astra Kelly played as well. Aim Me first sang with Astra as a duo called "Cooper's Eden" in Chicago.

Do you guys work as well as play music, or are you lucky enough to play music as your main squeeze?

“Our main squeeze box has been supporting us since we made the leap to live our dream 15 years ago. We live simply but feel that we live like queens. We have a cabin in the woods with 30 acres outside of Louisville. No running water but a fancy outhouse, 6 rain barrells, 2 organic gardens, solar panels and a kickin wood stove...life is simple and so sweet.”

Well it’s even sweeter that they have made their way to San Diego. Contact them out at troubadoursofdivinebliss.com for locations or check out the calendar at listenlocalsd.com.

By Tracy Kinnaman Petrucci

Local Artist Spotlight:

Our Artist Spotlight feature is on hold while Tracy, Luke and Olive get some time to chill as a new family.  Stay tuned for Artist Spotlight Features in the new year!

 

Emersen’s got some major endurance and knows what matters most: playing music they love.

The band is made up of front man Brett Wagner on the keys, trumpet and vocals, Daniel Crawford on guitar and vocals, Greg Manchester on drums and vocals, and Andrew Mauldin on bass and vocals. Hm, come to think of it, they are all on vocals.

 

Emersen was formed after Brett started making some recordings at his church’s studio many moons ago, laying down tracks of different instruments to make a truly unique sound. Brett would write his middle name “Emersen” on the cds he recorded and it sort of stuck around. He added band members until they had the perfect mix for the jazz/indie/pop genre that best describes them.

The band uses lots of ways to connect with fans, including a blog where they can post quick pictures and videos of shows, or funny stories that happen during practice or recordings. And who is this sweet little roadie with the rockin' pink headphones? Read on to find out what my interview with Brett uncovered...

 

Brett, you can play piano, trumpet, AND bass. Why those instruments?

“I was raised in a very musical family.  My Dad and Mom were both music majors from SDSU, and they own a music school in La Mesa.  I learned piano there, and I decided to try out Trumpet when I was 9 years old, and I took private lessons for a few years and played in my high school's jazz band.  I played bass from the age of 13 and really developed that when I played for my church's worship team for 4 years straight.  

Any cravings to learn any other instruments?

“I'd still love to learn to play accordion, and clarinet. Those two instruments seem to be capable of playing so many kinds of music.”


Seems like nobody wants to be compared to anybody these days or be affiliated with a genre, but we all have people we look up to or are inspired by from time to time.

“Haha.  Yeah, I know how that is.  I started writing and recording over 10 years ago, and the 5 years before that I was listening to Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, Jamiroquai, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, the Police, The Beatles, and trumpeter Lee Morgan.  If anyone compares me to any of those guys, of course I'd be flattered.  Since then I listen to even more big band and jazz including Harry Connick Jr., Cab Calloway, Louis Prima, and some modern rock n' roll like Delta Spirit and Switchfoot.  I don't know where this soul and pop sound that I play came from, I guess it's just in my blood.

I do hate being compared to people like Jason Mraz and Micheal Buble, not because I think they're bad, but because I'm pretty sure the only thing we have in common is that we're white and we sing.”

That’s hilarious. So, I love blogs.  Is that your baby girl in your blog pictures?

“That is... She just turned 8 months.  Her name is Neely, and my wife, Sarah, has brought her to every Emersen show since she was 4 weeks old.”

Wow that is commitment, every show? What are some of the challenges of starting a family while you are also pursuing music?

“It definitely takes strategic effort to pursue music while starting a family.  My wife supports me 100% in my passion to make music, as I support her in passion to make art.  If you don't make plans, mark things on the calender, communicate about things you want to work on that week, months and even years can go by and you'll realize you haven't gotten anywhere."

So what does it take to get it done?

“Once I decided to make a full-length album at the start of last year, I began waking up at 5am to record ideas, and just spend an hour or so everyday recording the music.

You can make excuses all you want, but excuses don't sound as good as a mixed and mastered album.  I had to wake up before the sun, lose sleep, skip parties... My friends understood, and for that year my priorities were simply my family and making an album.  In the song "Waste" I sang "I don't want to wait, thinking something might change, I don't want to end up full of regrets 'cause I just sat here."  Everything I did last year was a part of making sure that didn't happen.” 

 

Well the album is great... I like the cover, where did that image come from?

 

"I talk to my wife, Sarah, about everything.  I was talking to her about how I want the album cover to be directly related to the music, and not be something obscure.  I suggested we make a pile of all of the random instruments we used on the record, and then she said, "Why don't you just hang them on a clothes line?"  I liked it immediately and it was just a matter of making that happen.  It was a lot of fun."

 

 

Emersen's playing this Tuesday night, 11/30 at the House of Blues' LBLG. Check them out or else you are lazy. Just kidding, but really. Emersenmusic.com

 

By Tracy Kinnaman Petrucci