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So, my trip to Fest started on somewhat of a sour note as I started get really sick with the flu only a few days before I left for Florida. However, I am a trooper and refused to let a little sickness get in my way of a weekend of good ol’ fashion rock n roll. Instead of boring you with every minute detail of the weekend, I am only going to talk about my favorite two sets of the weekend.

On the first night, one of the bands I was most looking forward to was a band that I had actually seen one week before at the Metro, but that’s how much I enjoy them and their live show. The band I am talking about is Philadelphia, PA’s own The Menzingers.  Like many acts at the Fest, The Menzingers enjoy bigger than normal crowds in every year in Gainesville and this weekend was no different. Performing at the Atlantic to an (over)capacity crowd, the Philly foursome rocked through a set comprised mainly of their latest EP Hold On, Dodge coupled with a few older tunes and covers of The Clash (“Straight to Hell”) and Billy Bragg (“To Have and Have Not”). The reaction of the crowd was amazing, and it was thrilling to see so many people just as excited for this band as I am.

The Menzingers- “They Speak Of My Drinking, But Never Of My Thirst” live at Fest 8

One of the things I have come to love about the Fest is being able to see bands that rarely tour like Washington’s Shook Ones. Normally tucked with in the Pacific Northwest, Shook Ones been making phenomenal hardcore records reminiscent of Kid Dynamite since 2004 but rarely get the chance to tour the United States, so getting to see them is always a welcomed treat. Despite a set plagued by sound problem, the band went full throttle through their 30 minute time slot that was mixed about 50/50 of songs from their albums Facetious Folly Feat and The Unquotable A.M.H. with the exception of the last song of their set, which was a surprise cover of Weezer’s “Tired of Sex.”

Overall, the weekend was a total success despite it being tamer than expected on my part due to me being sick. I looked forward to getting back to Gainesville all year for the Fest and now am already waiting to go back.

Now that the panels have ended, the CMJ Music Marathon wrapped up with the remaining showcases in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Saturday’s weather was humid and rainy, so in between running through raindrops we decided it was the best choice to stick it out at one venue, the Bowery Ballroom. A friend of mine works at ICM and manages Violens, one of the bands playing the Bowery showcase, so that helped make our decision on where to camp out.

Threes and Nines @ The Bowery Ballroom

The first band playing when walked into the Bowery Ballroom was called Threes and Nines out of California. The four piece band featured lead singer/songwriter Jake Brebes, female upright bass player Tasha Powers, drummer Max Triplet, and an unnamed guitarist. The group was fun to watch and their sound at times reminded me of early Bob Dylan mixed with some early rockabilly influences. Threes and Nines looked like they had a great time playing together on stage and was an energetic way to kick-off the long roster for the evening.

Violens @ The Bowery Ballroom

Violens and Sharon Van Etten entertained us throughout the night, Violens picking up right where Threes and Nines left off with their fast tempoed, traditional rock band feel, and Sharon Van Etten bringing down the tone with her soft, acoustic performance that left the audience in silence as they waited for her next song.

Closing the showcase at the Bowery Ballroom was TV on the Radio frontman Kyp Malone’s solo project, Rain Machine. Rain Machine featured a variety of instruments to create an eerie atmosphere played by Malone’s four other bandmates who are accompanying him throughout his North American debut tour. The six minute long songs hold your attention while the band jumps into each song with an abundance of energy that is contagious. Overall, Rain Machine’s set may have been the best performance of the evening (with Sharon following in close second), and Malone left classic TV on the Radio fans impressed with his solo songwriting skills.

Check out my previous CMJ posts here:
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4

Creators of HAIR the Musical

We gave up the sunny 70-degree temps from Thursday for rainy, 50s on Friday. It made it harder to get out of bed, harder to be motivated to get out to shows, and just annoying for those of us who were not smart enough to pack an umbrella. With the later start to our day, the panels were our first stop. The creators and a few actors from HAIR the Musical came out to speak about the musical, how they brought it back to Broadway after a break, and we were even treated with a performance at the end of the panel.

The next panel I decided to hit up was about using Journalism as PR. Some of the speakers had amazing quotes, and the really dove in to why people have and use blogs to spread the word about music. Rob Fields, writer and creator of boldaslove.us mentioned that “blogs are done out of passion.” You will not find a blog that has consistent material up about music that is not done out of passion, it just would not exist.

ARMS at Pianos

Wrapping up the week of panels with the Journalism as A&R, we then planned out our choices of the 100s of showcases we wanted to hit up that evening. It seemed that Brooklyn was the place to be, so before heading across the river, we stopped at local Manhattan bar Pianos to catch one of SPIN’s top 25 artists to see at CMJ, Arms. Carved out of a solo project by singer Todd Goldstein, we were treated with songs from ARMS first full-length album Kids Aflame. The last song of their set, the title track from Kids Aflame featured Goldstein showing off his ukulele skills and caught the attention of the crowd that was beginning to get restless.

The XX

Once ARMS finished their set, it was time to venture into the unknown, or Brooklyn as I like to call it. Our destination was the second CMJ show from British band, the XX. We caught their set two days earlier at the Mercury Lounge, and I was so blown away by this up-and-coming band I knew we had to see them play again. Upon arriving at the Music Hall of Brooklyn, a space comprobable to the Metro in Chicago, we learned the show had reached capacity and only people with tickets (not CMJ badges) were allow into the venue. Luckily enough, our friend Ayisha works at the XX’s booking agency and had two tickets she so graciously gave to my friend Kate and I so we could check out this band in front of a sold-out crowd. Once again the XX did not disappoint, although the light show was not as good as their last set, the sound quality and the performance that singers Romy Craft & Oliver Sim gave toped their last show (if that is even possible!). It is clear to see that this band is going to be the next hot thing, so familiarize yourself today and be ahead of the game!

Featured speaker Andrew W.K.

One of the highlights every year at CMJ is their featured speaker. This speaker is normally someone of high influence in the entertainment industry who can motivate, inform, and connect with the college students who attend the conference. THIS YEAR’S speaker was some of that, and maybe a little bit extra- Mr. Andrew W.K. He began his speech with “well, you can really see how the music industry has changed by having CMJ book this as their featured speaker!” Andrew went on to amuse the crowd by answering questions from students and ultimate fans (two boys who were dressed exactly like Andrew). When asked how he became so successfully Andrew replied “just keep doing what you love to do with as much intensity as possible.”

The xx at the Mercury Lounge

The panels during the day are worthwhile, but at night the city lights up with the 50+ venues hosting CMJ showcases. We kicked off our night with the band that EVERYONE in the United States has been talking about. The xx have had the highest downloads on eMusic, are the best new artist on MTVU, they have love of bloggers worldwide, and they may have just achieved the title of top artist at CMJ. We arrived an hour early to secure our spot in the Mercury Lounge. The club reached capacity a little after we entered, and the line around the block proved that THIS was the show to be at. The British foursome bring a new sound to the ears of music fans. The sound was crystal clear, and the dim lighting told the crowd this band was here for business and was not interested in the emphasis on their appearance. Comprised of two ladies and two males, the foursome stood in a line and greeted the crowd with modesty. Their single tracks “Crystalized” and “Islands” were crowd favorites, but every track they played off their latest release rang through the club with a soft force that kept even the angry French group in front of us quiet for most of the show.

Empires at Fat Baby

Without going into too much detail, after the xx we swung by the club, Fat Baby to catch Chicago locals Empires. It was a big show for them, and only their second in New York City EVER, so the packed club was a great sign that this band has some big things coming their way.

Continuing through our long night, the next band we checked out included one of my personal favorite French-Canadians, Malajube. I was stoked to find out they were playing the Montreal showcase at CMJ since they NEVER tour that states, and it was easy to see why. Someone needs to teach these boys English! The phrases they attempted to mutter included “okie-dokie we will continue” with such a deep French accent that they might as well have been speaking French. The set itself was wonderful, and their latest release, Labyrinthes features softer songs than their previous release, but the intense keys and guitar parts kept me dancing in my seat (by this point I had to sit down to feel my legs).

Tuesday night ended when we met up with other local Chicagoians to catch BBU & French Horn Rebellion’s set at Santo’s Party House. Earlier we learned that Santo’s is Andrew W.K.’s venue, so you can just assume this place knows how to party hard.

We have a big day planned ahead, so stay tuned for Day 3.

After an early morning flight from Chicago to NYC, we kicked off the festival by conquering the public transportation system in New York to pick up our “offical” CMJ badges. The weather in the city has been beautiful, especially considering Halloween will be gracing our calendars next week so rather than walking in halfway on the panels we decided to enjoy SPICE Thai food outside of NYU’s campus on the steps of Union Square.

Titus Andronicus

For those of you who do not know me personally, I am a proud member of AEMMP Records, Columbia College’s student run record label. My role with AEMMP Records is the director of marketing and promotions, but I spent my summer sending out press releases and contacting blogs (besides my own) for additional exposure. One of the guys I had been contacting, Mike Spinella, just happens to be a big-wig over at Spinner.com, one of FYW’s FAVORITE music websites (that’s your hint to go check it out). My partner-in-crime for this trip, Kate Kennedy and I kicked off our first night (and her 21st birthday!) at the Spinner.com/Going.com showcase at Webster Hall. The showcase featured some amazing new bands like Titus Andronicus, Woods, Here We Go Magic, and a few other openers we missed. For those of you traveling through NYC anytime soon, Webster Hall is definitely a place to check out. The main hall is two stories that features a gorgeous balcony with prime views of the bands. The set-up was also original since it featured two stages, eliminating the need for the 45 minute change overs from artist to artist.

After leaving Webster Hall we met up with our friends who were playing, managing a showcase over in Brooklyn called the Glasslands Gallery. The gallery was in the middle of abandoned factories right on the river under the Brooklyn Bridge. Unfortunately the most spectacular part of this showcase was the location because the DJs were unimpressive and our friend was very sick so he never managed to play.

Needless to say, last night was not up to our normal CMJ expectations, but now we are heading out to catch the XX, Malajube, Empires, and some of the artist’s playing the VICE party with promises of bringing you back some quality artists.

www.cmj.com

It’s that time of year again, the CMJ Music Marathon kicks off tomorrow afternoon in New York City and I am lucky enough to be attending!

The CMJ Network hosts the yearly music festival every October and “connects music fans and music industry professionals with the best in new music through interactive media, live events, and print.” It is a haven for college students who are involved with, in love with, or want to work with music. CMJ’s festival is known for launching the careers of numerous artists over its 15 years including the Black Kids, Crystle Castles, Justice, Wolf Parade, and even the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

The festival features panels filled with industry professionals that take place on New York University’s campus. If panels are not your thing, the over 50 showcases a night featuring breaking artists from all over the world should be. Artists that I’m already looking forward checking out include the XX, We Are Country Mice, French Horn Rebellion, Malajube + the hundreds of other new music discoveries that will be made over the next 5 days of my life.

Stay tuned on a daily basis as I attempt to keep you updated with photos, music, and stories from my CMJ adventure.

Wish me luck.

Chicago is a D.I.Y. (do it yourself for those not hip-enough to know that abbreviation) city. If you don’t believe me walk around in Wicker Park, or even around the campuses of Columbia College or the School of the Art Institute. You will see handmade jewelry, clothes fashioned out of garbage, t-shirts attacked by scissors, and way to much puffy fabric paint as each person individualizes their “look.”

This Saturday and Sunday all of these creative folk come together to make some cash off of their handy work. The Renegade craft fair kicks off this beautiful September weekend tomorrow, and runs until Sunday, September 13th on Division between Damen Ave. and Paulina.

If taking advantage of the free bike valet isn’t enough to bring you down to Wicker Park this weekend, the 300 artists from across the country selling their DIY goods to you should be! Hopefully you saved some cash from all that back-to-school spending and are ready to blow the rest on screen printed concert posters, original stationary (for all your penpal needs), jewelry, and anything else under the sun that can be found at the craft fair this weekend!

And don’t fret music fans, there is plenty of free tunes. Djs will be gracing the Spins and Needles tent all weekend, while the South Shore Drill Team and the Black Bear Combo make daily appearances throughout the fair.

-AB

Sweet random piece of useless information: The name “Lollapalooza” came from when Perry Farrell, [the dude that created the awesome festival] was rolling around on the floor and opened up a dictionary and the first word his finger landed on was ‘Lollapalooza.’ Which is an “extraordinary or unusual thing, person, or event; an exceptional example or instance.” I say his finger was guided by the hand of God.

There are a few new gadgets coming into play this year that you guys should know:

1. Everything is going to be streamed online on the website, so you broke asses like myself, can watch from home, and not worried about getting arrested for jumping the fence.
2. They’re recording the performances in 3D which is the first time in the history of forever 3D filming is been used on such a large scale. C3 has some bamfs working there, I’d say.
3. And I just had a brain fart and can’t remember the third thing I was going to write. So instead, I’ll fill the space with another random piece of useless information: A spot in one of the Cabanas [which is usually occupied by head honchos at IBM, Budweiser, and other rich kids] will set you back like $1500.

So much for a recession.

Have fun at Lolla this weekend, kids.

- Devan Marie

This weekend, the Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival takes place along Milwaukee Avenue from California and Ridgeway. This festival is filled with live music, fine art, local vendors, and diverse food from the Logan Square neighborhood.

If that isn’t enough to make you trek out to the far west side of the city, the Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival Live art Masterpiece Battle takes place on Saturday, August 1st and the winner walks away with a $500 prize. So if you have any artist friends looking to make extra cash, pull them out and celebrate the arts!

Chicago is an artsy city, come experience it firsthand!

Check out the live music schedule behind the cut…

the WHISTLER Stage
At the Logan Square Centennial Monument — intersection of Milwaukee/Kedzie/Logan Blvd

FRIDAY, JULY 31st
9:30pm Scotland Yard Gospel Choir
8:00pm Jim Becker
6:00pm The Megitza Quartet

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1st
10:00pm Allá
8:30pm White Mystery
7:00pm Judson Claiborne
5:30pm The Chicago Cuatro Orchestra‘s Ensemble
4:00pm L’Orchestra Super Vitesse
2:30pm Bird Names
1:00pm Matt Ulery’s Loom
12:00pm The Loneliest Monk

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2nd
8:30pm Cave
7:00pm Mazes
5:30pm The Golden Horse Ranch Band
4:00pm The Notes & Scratches
2:30pm Eastern Blok
1:30pm Baby Alright
12:00pm Vaudeville Underground

the CROWN Stage
At the intersection of Milwaukee/Kimball/Diversey

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1st
9:00pm Blah Blah Blah
8:00pm Mass Shivers
7:00pm Michael Columbia
6:00pm Robbie Hamilton
4:00pm Son del Viento
3:00pm Nicole Mitchell
2:00pm Box of Baby Birds
1:00pm Pedro y Su Renaviniento
12:00pm Mar Caribe

w/ DJ Sean Doe

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2nd
9:00pm I Kong Kult
8:00pm Tomorrow Kings
7:00pm In Tall Buildings
6:00pm Cains & Abels
5:00pm Algernon
4:00pm Vertikal
3:00pm Puerto Muerto
12:00pm Alpha and the Princes of Futa

w/ DJ Sean Doe

-AB