Monday, October 31, 2005

Top Songs on the Jukebox

Now that the jukebox doesn't play automatically, I can see which songs people are really listening to. Comes out two ways: by hits or by kilobytes. Hits would be the number of times people clicked on a song to listen to it, so how many actual times a song was played. Kilobytes would be, well, how many kilobytes of a song were downloaded. This may have to do with the length (and thus file size) of a song, but since mp3's stream (i.e. load as they play) I think it has more to do with how long a song was listened to, which also may have to do with the length of the song, but it may also reflect whether they kept listening to it or switched songs or stopped the player. So, anyway, now that I've confused everyone, and myself, here it is (drum roll please):

Top Five for October

By Hits:

1. The Killing Floor "Voodoo Chile" (cover)
2. Tie between Structure "Like I Should" and Skunkweed "Wasted"
3. El Sancho "Mota-vation"
4. 21BLACK "Take Some Time" (cover)
5. Open Chapter "Remember"

By Kilobytes:

1. The Killing Floor "Voodoo Chile" (cover)
2. Structure "Like I Should"
3. 21BLACK "Take Some Time" (cover)
4. Skunkweed "Wasted"
5. Sexto Sol "Chicken Foot Boogaloo"

Close contenders:
The Groove Movement's "Sparrow's Song"
The Moral Fiction's (formerly Soneida) "Making the X Files Look Like Boy Meets World"

Skindred's Equipment Stolen

from Blabbermouth.net (thanks Dan for passing this along):


SKINDRED bassist Daniel Pugsley has sent the following message to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:

"The morning after an awesome show in San Antonio with H.I.M. and FINCH at the White Rabbit, we discovered our trailer had been broken into. Both my basses and Mikey's [Dee] guitars were taken as well as one of Arya's Iron Cobra kick pedals. We were totally bummed out, but we managed to get replacements (just) in time to play in Houston the next day. So basically it would be great if you guys could keep an eye out for them for us, especially all you guys in Texas, or if you know anything about this please let us know.

"The first bass that was taken from me was the Musicman Stingray with the Jamaican flag scratch plate that I used in the 'Nobody' video. It's totally standard apart from it's got a Seymour Duncan pickup in it. The second was also a Stingray, but it was strung through body and it had a black headstock with faded gold writing on; it was kinda a one-off. This one also had a Seymour Duncan in it. Mikey lost two left-handed Musicman Axis guitars, one black and one red. Also, if you have any pictures of them, please send them in so we can post them on the website. We'd really like to get them back, for sentimental reasons as much as value, so really, any info you could give us would be great. You can contact us both through the web site or our Myspace page."


I would like to apologize to Skindred on behalf of San Antonio that this happened to them here and I hope it doesn't keep them from coming back to SA. I have looked around on the internet for Skindred pics that show some of these instruments and think I have found some:
Sonic Rampage, Unearthed.com and Florida Entertainment Scene

Soneida - The Moral Fiction

Just a quick note because I had somebody here searching for Soneida. They have changed their name to The Moral Fiction.

Def Leppard, Cheap Trick & Alter Ego

from Steve Elliott of Alter Ego, who opened on the second stage (way to go guys!):

It was great. Since we were on early, like right when the gates opened, we didn't get a HUGE crowd, but it was pretty respectable as people started coming over to get beer and stuff. Being that the second stage is on the far side of the amphitheatre as you come in, most people probably didnt even know we were there. By the time we finished, we had several hundred people watching.

The tie-in with K-ROCK started a little late, so we played for a solid hour before yielding to the costume contest, and then the first act came on...some guy with an acoustic guitar. We got nothing but praise from all the folks who checked us out and even our soundman and security were impressed!

The Pace Concert promotions people loved us and couldn't say enough nice things about our performance, so that was very gratifying. They told us they'll definitely use us again in the future. Plus we got paid $200 for an hour's work AND got great seats for the show!

The show....WOW! Cheap Trick were awesome. Huge sound, especially from the 12-string bass of Thom Peterson and the guitar of Rick Nielsen. And Def Leppard...these guys have still got it in spades. Possibly one of the best shows I have EVER seen. Amazing stage and light show, impeccable sound, amazing vocals and guitar. And it was one hit after another. After a while, it was just a mass of people swaying back and forth and singing along with every song.

For 25 years as a band, Def Leppard still know how to bring it! And to think that some of these guys were just 15 or 16 when the first album came out, all the band members are just in their early or mid-forties!

I honestly don't remember songlists or the order they were played in, but I know that no one was disappointed in either band. They heard all their favorites and the bands were definitely into it, and appreciated the very loud response from the San Antonio audience.

Chevelle Review (kinda late)

from my friend Dan on MySpace:

Last month, Insano and I went to the Chevelle concert at Sunset Station. The 1st time to see a show there for both of us. I hadn't seen Chevelle live. But Insano has seen ‘em 3 or 4 times. She's from Chicago, and saw ‘em there at smaller venues. Bottom line is, they were killer. Surprisingly the sound was clear and strong for outdoors. The drummer was playing a new set, his had gotten stolen in Dallas. He's insane, a huge part. Plays double kick bass, kept everything moving. He might be the heart of this band if it wasn't for his brother on lead guitar and vocals. Dude just works. Bass player and other brother have quit, so the guy from Filter filled in and did a good job. His back up vocals sounded a bit flat but otherwise these guys are worth every dime. I think we paid $19.00 + etc I remember saying I'd go see them 2 or 3 times a week at that price. If you haven't seen Chevelle in concert, do yourself a favor and catch ‘em next time around. The crowd was into it and the guys seemed to work for their appreciation. A few problems up front, but security was right on top of it. We missed the 1st band and the second was to me kinda generic, but I was there for Chevelle. I'll be wherever they play next time.

Sunday, October 30, 2005

Preying Mantis at Tiffany Billiards

Since reading Daniel's review of Preying Mantis at Wise Guys and meeting Ron Jarzombek, I have been wanting to go see Preying Mantis and catch local guitar god Ron in action. Finally managed to catch them last night at Tiffany Billiards. I was not at all disappointed. These guys - sorry for the language, but there's no other way to say it - these guys fucking rock!!

Preying Mantis

First off, the music. I couldn't have picked a better selection myself. AIC "Dem Bones," Ozzy "Mr. Crowley," Seether "Remedy," Foo Fighters "Everlong," System of a Down "BYOB" and "Sugar," STP "Plush," Pantera "Walk," plus Tool, Metallica, Drowning Pool, Godsmack, Jet...after a while (and too many beers - remember I had an extra hour of beer too!) I started getting too into the show and forgetting to write down the songs.

Second, the show. Watching Preying Mantis, you don't get the feeling of being in a bar watching a cover band. You feel like you're at a concert. The fact that Tiffany's is freakin' huge is part of it, but mostly it's just the way the band puts on a show. They've got the moves and demeanor of longtime, experienced rockers. The singer, Jack, reminded me of James Hetfield back in the day when Metallica was Metallica. He's got a great voice, especially for stuff like Pantera and Drowning Pool. Maybe not so much for Ozzy songs...he cracked a little, but then again, Ozzy does that too. Anyhow, when they play Ozzy, the thing to watch is Ron...he makes a Randy Rhoads solo look as easy as "Jingle Bells."

Ron Jarzombek

Third, they gave me something I've been waiting to hear since I started doing this SA Rocks thing: a kickass bass solo. (The other is some badass double bass on drums, still waiting for that one.) I know that it's much more difficult to perform a wailing solo on a bass guitar than it is on a (regular?) guitar, so I'm always very impressed by that. Metal Mike's solo goes right up there on my list of best bass solos, along with Metallica's "Anesthesia (Pulling Teeth)" and the one performed by the bassist for B.B. King when I saw him at The Majestic years ago.

Metal Mike's Bass Solo

I was a little bummed that Chris, their usual drummer, wasn't there on drums because I've spoken with him a little on MySpace and was looking forward to meeting him in person, but Jason did a great job filling in and I loved the drum set up! You can't see it too well in the pictures, but there's this really cool glass partition around the drums.

I also have to add that I was impressed by Jack's method of taking a shot of tequila. I've never seen anyone spit a lime straight up in the air and catch it in his mouth before.

Metal Mike was telling me that some clubs in town don't want to book Preying Mantis because they think they're too heavy. I think they're making a big mistake. The crowd at Tiffany Billiards was not a bunch of longhairs in concert t-shirts (not that there's anything wrong with that), but your average bar crowd that looked like they'd had a long week of work and were ready for some fun, and they loved every minute of it. I even saw a couple there who looked like they were in their 50's and they didn't seem to mind the music a bit. So, note to clubs...you might want to rethink that!

If you haven't seen Preying Mantis, you definitely should. You can catch them this coming Friday (Nov 4) at the Hooligan's on I-35 or check Preying Mantis' schedule for future gigs. Many of you probably remember Ron Jarzombek from WatchTower and SA Slayer, but if you don't know who he is and how great a guitarist he is, go right now and check out his stuff at spasticink.com. He's amazing.

If you're a guy, you can stop reading now. This last note is for the ladies. You may have read on here occasionally me complaining about the restrooms at various clubs being tiny, nasty, etc. (You know, when you drink beer, one of the consequences is frequent trips to the restroom, so the quality and size of the restrooms becomes very important.) I have officially voted Tiffany Billiards as having the Best Bathroom Ever...not only is it large with many stalls, but the walls are lined with posters of guys who look like this:

Extremely hot guy

Does it get any better than that?!


ADDED NOTE: I have one more thing to say. To local waitresses: I waitressed at bars for many years and girls, you're making a big mistake when you make the assumption that women don't tip and pass my table by. When I buy a beer, I give you a five and the change is yours. Last night I had at least 8 beers (probably more, I didn't count). That's $18+ that you missed out on. Out of all the bars I've gone to over the last 6 months, checking out bands for SA Rocks, the only bar where I was waited on is Rock City Bar. And they don't even have waitresses. The bartender did it.

Interview: Eric McConnell

Ran into Eric McConnell over there on MySpace and he was kind enough to agree to do an interview with me, so here it is!

OK, let’s start with the basics. Tell me about your music.

Haha...you say "the basics" and hit me with the hardest question first....I'm a Blues, Funk and old R&B guy with a guilty pleasure for Rock..haha. During a live show we play a mix of everything. From Stevie Wonder and Al Green to modern rock and my original stuff. When I write, it's a bit different. I'm very aware of song structures and the importance of getting your point across quickly. My first solo album that's in the works now is actually more Rock based with some Blues highlights. I'm actually planning on covering two songs on it also: 'Old Love' by Eric Clapton and 'I Wish' by Stevie Wonder.

As for influences? Well I'm never too far from one of these guys/bands CD's: Philip Sayce, Richie Kotzen, Joe Bonamassa, Gov't Mule and Jeff Buckley.


You started playing in public at a young age, 14. At what age did you pick up the guitar and what influenced you to do so?

I picked up my first guitar when I was 13. I remember answering this question once when I doing an interview when I was 17 and I'm gonna answer it the same way yet, updated...I started playing for the girls! And if any other musician says that they didn't start playing for attracting the opposite sex (or same sex...gotta be PC nowadays..) they are lying to you. It wasn't untill later that I realized I had something to say and that it takes more than a guitar to get a date...haha.


By the time you were 18, you were in the finals of The National Jimi Hendrix Electric Guitar Competition. How did that happen?

My brother and I used to make trips to the big chain CD store in Buffalo NY (my old hometown) and it was always the same thing. We'd split up at the door and meet up at the cashiers with our spoils. I had seen an ad for The Hendrix Competition in Guitar Player magazine and just knew that I had to do it. There was only something like 2 weeks till the deadline so I was making phone calls as soon as I got home. This is actually where I met the members of the Project R&B Revue. I made the recording with some of them and they liked my playing so much they asked me to join the band.

Almost a year after the semi-finals in Cleveland, the finals happened in Seattle. A huge chunk of my family flew out there, I bought leather pants...haha...and I felt like a rockstar. There I was with Slash (I got a great story about him getting ID'd in the hotel bar) Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains) Kim Thyall (soundgarden) Gary Hoey, Keb'Mo, Chris Duarte and Hendrix's Band of Gypsies. It was night I won't ever forget. Getting compliments from my idols and having breakfast with some of them before they left that afternoon...Very cool for me.

With Buffalo-based Project R&B Revue, you opened for some pretty big acts, including Robert Cray and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. That must have been pretty amazing to find yourself playing along with the blues guitar gods so early in your career. Did you find it humbling or ego-boosting?

I was scared shitless! I know I shouldn't curse but to look out and have a sea of people in front of you, dancing and singing your songs let alone having Kenny Wayne and Robert Cray watching and listening to you? That to me was both ego boosting, humbling and the biggest thrill I've had. I consider myself blessed to have it the times that I did.


When you were 21, you left Buffalo and moved to DC to study music. How did your education and the change of location influence your musical style?

This is a great question. I can't lie but going from clubs and venues to early morning classes and homework, sucked...haha. Yet, it was the best thing I've ever done. I went from this blues rocker guitar guy to a much more educated...blues rocker guitar guy...haha..seriously though, I found out that music wasn't all about the rippin guitar solo. Don't get me wrong, a rippin solo still gets me off but when you hear guys like Jeff Buckley or Nick Drake just craft a song...it hits you in a different place. Though I can only pray for that kind of ability, the thought wouldnt have even occured to me if I hadn't changed the path I was on.

How did you end up here in San Antonio?

When I was in The Hendrix Competition I met Jake Owen. Those of you that don't know Jake, you're missing out. He does some great improv/new Jazz. Anyway, he and I hit it off and have been friends ever since. I had visited the area a few times over the years. When things kinda dwindled in DC, Jake made the suggestion I move here...so I did.

San Antonio, sitting in the shadows of Austin, often gets overlooked as a great town for music. As something of a newcomer here, what is your impression of the local music scene and what do you think SA needs to put it on the musical map?

More Original Music! And more reception for original music. San Antonio has some of the best musicians I've heard. If it was possible for all of us to just say "screw covers" and go all original, we'd have an extremely powerful 'Tiny Mecca' on our hands.

I'm going to tread lightly and I don't know how to really bring this up. I've noticed something rather disturbing and frankly insulting to the bar goers, bar owners and musicians alike here in San Antonio. Bands that use tracks. If you don't know what this is, it's when they use something pre-recorded in a "Live" show. Now true, if its a Piano, Sax or a Kazoo that's extremely important to the song and no one on stage can cover that part..I can see the practical use. But when guitarists or bassists aren't playing and singers aren't singing and you hear guitar, bass and vocals, it's insulting. You're lying to the crowd.

We all know big name national acts that do this and I can understand why: rigorous schedules, little sleep and piles of money at stake but I don't condone it. But the bands that are doing this in this city..with cover material? These people that came to see YOU play and you give them overblown karaoke with props..?...Well that's just wrong. I won't name names, because Karma is a bitch and you should be ashamed of yourselves. You are the ones holding this city down from being great.

What are your plans for the future? And tell me more about these interesting side projects of yours...a novel and a video game?

Well, I mentioned before my first solo album which is gonna have a few friends on it. But the side projects kinda just happened. The novel is a suspense/thriller about a serial killer. A twisted "whodunit" and when I say twisted..let's just say due to fear of being disowned, I wont let my Mom read it.

The videogame is really cool. My brother had a job for Playstation and made some good connections there. I had told him about an idea for a Zombie game (I'm a B-movie and Romero fan). After a few different pitches about it and trying to find a way to stick with that genre, while still being fresh, we came up with a great idea. Once again, I can't get too much into it but it's not your normal cliche themed zombie tale. I'm really excited about both these projects.

Ok, bonus fun question: If you could organize the ultimate jam session, with musicians local or world-renowned, live or dead, who would you pick to play that jam?

Hmm...Well I'd take my good friend, Ron Bryant of local band Inertia (killer guitarist), Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dimebag Darrell, Keith Moon, Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, Cliff Burton, Allen Woody, Jim Morrison and Janis Joplin and jam on Sweet Home Alabama (Okay bad inside joke on the song between Ron and I..haha)..but honestly I think if it were possible to take all of the people that influenced me that have passed on and sit'em down to just talk over a few beers, coffee, cigarettes...that would be cool.

That would be very cool. Thanks for the interview, Eric, and I've got to hear that Slash story sometime!

You can catch Eric McConnell live:

Thursday, Nov 3rd with Dave Fennley at Stone Werks Café

Wednesday, Nov 9th at Hooligan's on I-10

Wednesday Nov 23rd at Hooligan's on I-35

Wednesday Nov 30th at Broadway Bar

Saturday, October 29, 2005

Sol Patch Halloween

from Sol Patch:

Just wanted to let you all know that we'll be gettin' our Monster Mash on at The Ol' Waterin' Hole in Kerrville this Saturday night for their annual Halloween Party! There will be killer drink specials and a costume contest beginning at 11pm. First place wins a $50 dollar bar tab and second place, $25. So, dust off that GI Joe garb or wave that magic wand and come on out! There will be other prizes as well. Last we heard was that they're already recieving calls for reservations which NEVER happens, even for this event! So, we'd suggest getting there as early as you can to grab a seat or table! The place is already full and they're expecting a lot more! There is no place else to be in the Hill Country because EVERYONE will be at The Hole!
Music starts at 9:30 -1:30 and remember, we'll have an extra hour to raise Hell! Have a SAFE and Happy Halloween and keep supporting live music!

Friday, October 28, 2005

IRIS Halloween Party and more

from Iris:

Put your costume on, pass out the candy, and get ready for IRIS. Its Halloween time and you know what that means!? It means that IRIS is playing this Saturday night at the Guadalupe river club in Kerrville, TX. The GRC is throwing this party and none other than IRIS will be the night’s guest of honor. There will be costume prizes so be sure to show up in full regalia. IRIS will be donning costumes but we’re not telling you what they’re going to be…you’ll have to show up and see for yourself.

Speaking of this Saturday – did you know it’s time to set your clocks back one hour? That’s right at 2 am this Saturday set your clocks back one hour and stay and party at the GRC with IRIS an extra hour – that’s five hours of music, dance, and Halloween fun.

James and Jeff want to let everyone know that they appreciate all the support they received from the guestbook and e-mails. Both are doing well and will be ready this Saturday. James’ voice is back and better than ever. Jeff is only a week out of surgery but he’ll be ready with all the energy you would expect from our favorite double-bass king.

Our own Jim Freeman is an official published rock critic. During KISS’ last tour Jim was contacted by Mike Brandvold (web-master to KISS’ official web-site). After talking and getting details worked out Jim got to meet the band back stage and review the concert from more than a fans perspective. His two page review of the 2003 Selma, TX concert made its way to the editors of Kiss quarterly (an international published rock magazine) and ended up being published for the entire world to read. Jim was unaware of the actual publication date until he received a sign copy from the members of KISS. Congratulations Jim!

IRIS has added another date at the Trap. December 16th IRIS will be back at the Trap so make sure you book your calendars. Bring a Santa hat if you want James to take your X-Mas wish ;).

Be safe everyone and we’ll see you this Saturday at the GRC!

SpitFire at The Trap Tonight

SPitFire at the Trap - we finally get to play a Friday at the Trap, Alot of people think the trap is not a great place to play. But let me tell you something! The Trap is one of the best places to play in San Antonio if your an established band or not. Bands like SpitFire,Iris, Alter Ego, all agree that the trap is always a blast !!! and we have all played just about everywhere lately.

We always get love and support from the gang at the Trap. SpitFire is going to tear it up tonight and show everyone what a good time is all about. (( its not where you play its how good you are )) so come on down to the trap and party down with some Heavy Hitters and slam Drinks make some noise Most, importantly Rock and Dance your ASS's OFF with us tonight!

Can you tell we are pumped!

The Trap
(210) 533-3060
4711 Pecan Valley Dr
San Antonio, TX 78223

21BLACK at Just 1 More & Malt House

Come out and join 21BLACK this weekend. We greatly appreciate your support !

Oct 28 Fri 9:30pm-1am
Just 1 More
3354 Lasses Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78223

Oct 29 Sat 9:pm-2am
Malt House Cafe
115 S Zarzamora St, San Antonio, TX 78207

Please check our calendar at http://www.21black.com for our list of all upcoming appearances. We hope to see each of you soon ! We thank each and every one of you for the tremendous support and positive vibes.

RMW and Danzig

from Robb's Metal Works:

I am compelled to write all of you this afternoon after working the Blackest of the Black show last night. I left the show feeling quite high, despite being drug free since 2003. It was a euphoria I don't quite often experience in working with bands. However, after almost 9 years, as the man behind Robb's MetalWorks & having conducted hundreds of interviews,....last nights conversation with Glenn (& Doyle) will go down in my history as one of the most memorable, honest, spontaneous and insightful interviews of ALL time.

The highlight was asking Glen about the possibility of a reconcilation with Misfits bassist, Jerry Only. His response,...."ask Doyle how he feels about it, he's right there, ....ask him". Of course, Doyle in his soft spoken tone responded,... "Glenn I'll do whatever you want to do." Glenn made references to that response that someday we may see the Mighty Misfits reform in its original line-up,...but not now. It was a glimpse,...a peak, at what lies at the heart of this issue & the man. I believe when you see this interview, it will give us all hope of the true possibility that the Misfits will reign together again someday.

Many of you asked last night about when I may air this interview. After some thought, I am committed it to air in March 2006. I hope all of you will be patient enough to catch it then. With the fact that we were the only video medium last night to get an interview with Glenn, I feel very fortunate,....& my fortune I greatly look forward to sharing with all of YOU.

I thank the many of you who came up to me & the Crew last night with your kind regards, support of our hard work & a cold brews. It is because of nights like last night that we continue to do what we do.

Alter Ego at Hooligan's I-35

from Alter Ego:

We're back at one of our favorite places tonight (FRIDAY, OCT. 28) at HOOLIGAN'S, 13920 I-35 NORTH, just off of Loop 1604 and Pat Booker Road. This is THE place if you want some excellent food, great drinks and service, pool and darts, and just a great night overall! We'll start about 10 p.m. and there's never a cover!

On SUNDAY, OCT. 30, we're honored to be part of a great show at the VERIZON WIRELESS AMPHITHEATRE, 16765 LOOKOUT RD., SELMA, TX., as we've been selected to play on the second stage before the Def Leppard/Cheap Trick "Halloween Hysteria" concert. A big thanks out to Pace Concerts for calling us and 102.7 K-ROCK for giving us a glowing recommendation. We'll be playing from 5-5:45 p.m. as the gates open, and then from 6:30-7 p.m. In between, K-ROCK's morning DJs, Free Beer and Catfish, will be holding a costume contest and have plenty of other things going on. So if you're out for the show Sunday, stop by the second stage!

Thursday, October 27, 2005

Huff & Bard Gig

from Lesti Huff:

Just wanted to let all of you folks who live around the bulverde area that Jim & I will be doing a duo @ the Honey Creek Cafe this Fri. the 28th from 6:30-10:30. Love to see you all out, we've got some new songs we're gonna do. If you don't happen to live out that way & you like a nice scenic ride, great food & live music then Honey Creek is a great destination. A straight shot out 281 N. & about 5 miles west on 46. Their # is (830)438-3190 for more info.

Houston St Fair

Sexto Sol will be performing a free show this Saturday, Oct. 29th at 2pm for the Houston St. Fair. The performance will be downtown San Antonio in front of the Alameda Theater (318 W. Houston St.). Other artists appearing will be groups such as The Swindles and David Lee Garza y Los Musicales.

GWAR at Sunset Station

Just found out about this upcoming concert:

GWAR, A Dozen Furies and Mensrea at Sunset Station

Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Lonestar Pavilion
Doors: 7pm | Show: 8pm
Tickets - Advance: $12 | Day of Show: $15

Ska Punk & Pirates

Tonight at Sam's

Ska at Sams Burger Joint

Six Months

It has been six months now since I started SA Rocks and I just want to say how much fun it has been! I started this blog on April 27th (the About Me page looks like it was posted on April 26th, but I actually made it later and gave it that date to put it at the beginning - seemed like a good spot for it). Back then I was getting my listings only from The Current and writing every band I could find online to get put on their mailing list so I'd have stuff to post. Now I am kept crazy cool busy and I love it! SA Rocks is getting close to 24,000 hits according to the counter (over 25,000 if Google AdSense is correct)! Plus SARocks.com has gotten over 600 hits this month so far (up from 400 last month). I've added so many things...the jukebox, the free ads, the forum, the MySpace page...

I just want to thank all the bands, clubs, promoters, etc. and all the SA rockers who have put up with me and given me their cooperation and support to make SA Rocks the place it has become. I especially want to thank my sponsors, Rok Candy, The Killing Floor and SpitFire for helping me out covering the costs I incur keeping SA Rocks going. Thank you so much, guys!!

And a special thanks to Kel, DJTazz and Alfonso for being my guest bloggers and friends and helping SA Rocks by contributing reviews, interviews and more, as well as my friends from MySpace who have let me use their concert reviews on here. Kel, I'm so happy I met you...not only have you helped me out here immeasurably, but we've become pretty good friends in the meantime and I'm very thankful for that. DJTazz...without you I would never make it to half the shows...thanks for being my partner in crime in this (and designated driver!). Alfonso, thank you so much for offering your help and great writing skills to SA Rocks. Your reviews and interview are so good (and probably the most popular on here)!

I can't wait to see what's going on here in 6 more months!!! Thanks everybody!!

Wednesday, October 26, 2005

The Agony Scene Off the Tour

Word has it:

The Agony Scene, the opening act for the "Blackest of the Black" tour, had to cancel the remaining dates of the tour. One of the band members had a death in the family. Asesino will join Danzig for the final three shows of the 2005 "Blackest of the Black" tour with Chimaira, Behemoth, Himsa, and Mortiis.

WC Clark Blues Revue at Luna

For all you blues fans (and I know there are a lot of you out there), from Luna Fine Music Club:

WC Clark Blues Revue
Saturday October 29th

WC ClarkPeople that know of or have heard WC know that the man is a living legend and every opportunity to see him perform is a true honor. He has played along side with every big name in the Blues world including Stevie Ray Vaughan, BB King, Albert King, Eric Clapton & Robert Cray. He's known as the Godfather of Austin Blues and this Saturday night he will move into LUNA for one of his rare performances in San Antonio. Admission is only 8 bucks and I can personally atest to that WC and the band play extended sets with very short breaks. Needless to say he always shows up to entertain. Cathch him up close @ LUNA this Saturday night!!

Ruben V at Rebar Friday

from Ruben V:

Just letting y'all know we'll be at Rebar in San Antonio this Friday, October 28th from 9:30pm to 1:30am. Come on out if you can. Rebar is on Broadway just south of 410.

Echoes in the Soul

At the VN Lounge on Perrin-Beitel tonight

Echoes in the Soul

Papa Wood Back at BoozeHounds

from Papa Wood:

We're excited about our show this Friday the 28th at Boozehounds. We played there once already, and we had a blast. Everyone I talk to agrees that it's a great new rock club.

Boozehounds is located at Perrin Beitel and 410E right next to Lack's furniture store (look for an orange sign with a cartoon dog on it). They have a very cool bar staff, sitting and standing room, pool tables, and darts too I believe. Of course, we will be jamming hard for you, and we even have some newer stuff we just picked up.

Papa Wood hopes to see you there...we'll start between 9:30 and 9:45.

Tomorrow Night at Rock City

I didn't get the info about Slick Dickens and Girl in a Coma at Rock City until after I put the nightly listings up, so I'll just post this here:

NOTE: Actually this should say tonight at Rock City - it's for Wednesday 10/26

This one is for San Antonios finest!!! SLICK DICKENS will be performing live at ROCK CITY BAR tomorrow night along with 3 other ass kickin bands. Show begins at 9:00pm, should be like $3, and ends at 2:00am unless you decide to after party it up with SLICK DICKENS. SLICK DICKENS will be heading out to L.A. the next day for a small trip so they are trying to PARTY BIGG! Give us a shout if your down. Check the schedule:

A Jam Band. 9:00pm
Robo Trumble. 10:00pm
Doom To Bloom. 11:00pm
The Public. 12:00pm
SLICK DICKENS. 1:00am

It will also be the last show that GIRL IN A COMA will hold at Rock City Bar before they head out on tour. So come wish them a San Antonio farewell as well. SHOW SOME LOVE MY PEOPLE!!!!!


ROCK CITY BAR
115 General Kruegar........ off Blanco inside the loop.

* blunted promotions *

Tuesday, October 25, 2005

More Halloween Fun

Rok Candy Demo

New cover band Rok Candy has just put their demo up on their web site. It's a sample mix of some of the songs they play and it sounds great! (I didn't want Santeria to stop!) I haven't had a chance to see them live yet, but I can tell I want to! They're playing November 4th at Just 1 More. Listen to their demo here!

Some Upcoming Concerts

This weekend, October 29th - The Fabulous Thunderbirds at Gruene Hall - Tickets are $20. David Holt opens, show is at 9pm. Get tickets here or call 830-629-5077.

December 4 - Powerman 5000 at Graham Central Station

Also, word has it that Lynyrd Skynyrd will be playing at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Saturday, February 18, 2006 at the SBC Center. (They haven't officially listed the entertainment lineup, but it should be up tomorrow, so I can verify it.)

Halloween Rock Bash

Here's one I forgot to add the to Halloween post below - Halloween Rock Bash at Rock City Bar with Sintense, Tension Speak, Deveat and Fallout 10/28.

Halloweenie Stuff to Do


Looking for something to do for Halloween? Here are some ideas:

1) Go to Nightmare on Grayson

I hear it's really cool this year (isn't it always?) and as a bonus you can check out some bands really cheap.

Tues 10/25 - Girl in a Coma
Wed 10/26 - Kevin Goes 2 College
Thurs 10/27 - You Be the Star Karaoke
Fri 10/28 - Lucid Dementia
Sat 10/29 - Open Chapter
Sun 10/30 - Krybdus
Mon 10/31 - Scary Manilow

2) Hang out with The Scene


Tues 10/25 - Halloween Hellfest at Rock City Bar. The Scene will be featuring the episode with Hate Eternal & Into Eternity, plus live music from Lions in Cages and Deceit.

3) Deja Boo

Wed 10/26 - Deja Vu will be at The Coast in full costume this Wednesday the 26th. Sexiest costume contest!

3) Blackest of the Black Tour

Thurs 10/27 - Check out Danzig with special guest Doyle von Frankenstein, plus Chimaira, Behemoth, Himsa, Mortis and The Agony Scene at Graham Central Station

4) Get Some Weed

Fri 10/28 - Join Skunkweed for their Hallo-Weed Bash at Revolution Room. Costume contest, cool prizes, grub and plenty of surprises. Those not in costume will be seriously ridiculed.

5) Go pretty much anywhere on Saturday

Derringer at the Medina Lake Halloween Costume Party at Oasis Bar & Grill - Judging by Celebrity Judges, Cash & Prizes For Best Costume, Great Music, Food & Cold Drinks

Monster Mash Jam Show with Humanimal at Wise Guys Bar & Pizzeria - Costume Contests

KISS Masked Ball
at Graham Central Station - Join Randy Bonillas and the KISS Krew at Graham Central Station as KISS broadcasts live on location from the KISS Masked Ball. Enter your costume in the KISS Costume Contest for your chance to win over $2500 in cash prizes!

All Saints Night at Bonds 007 Rock Bar with Ancient Malus, Miscarriage, The Tyranny & Acid Monkey.

Headbangers Halloween at Ampus Rehearsal Studios with Grind, High Risk, Half Empty & Demise - Only 5 bucks if you come in a costume, but you'll have to dish out 10 dollars if you suck and come plain. Besides, you'll have a better chance of getting laid in costume.

Halloween Metal Show at Rock City Bar with In Death of Me, D-Railed & By Any Means Necessary

Halloween Bash with The Psychoholics at Smitty's Pub

Halloween Party with Iris at Guadalupe River Club

Halloween Party with Hearts Fail at Atomix

6) Celebrate Devil's Night

Sun 10/30 - At Senses Mega Club with 414 Productions - Emily's Gone Mad, Chant, Bombs Over Berlin, Bizarre Musik Machine, Hollow & more

NOTE: This event has changed venues...Devil's Night will be held at ATOMIX

7) Halloween Live #5

Mon 10/31 - At The Sanctuary - Desdemona, Forever is Never & more


So there are some possibilities. If I've missed anything, feel free to add more fun stuff in the comments.

Monday, October 24, 2005

Halloween Hellfest

Mark Monaco: KJ97 Broadcast at Hooligan's

from Mark Monaco:

Tuesday night we are returning to Hooligan’s (IH-10 @ Huebner) for the Texas Music Series hosted by KJ97. KJ will be there for a live remote broadcast, so we really need as many of our San Antonio friends as possible to come out to the party. Also, tune-in to 97.3FM as we are being featured in the advertising spots for the show. Hooligan’s has poker upstairs, a full-service kitchen, and they will be running drink specials all night long. I hope to see you there!


Tuesday, October 25 @ 8pm
Texas Music Series with KJ-97
Hooligan’s Bar & Grill
10855 I-10 W @ Huebner Rd.
San Antonio, Texas
(210) 558-3288
www.hooligansbarandgrill.com

Rock City Halloween

Deja Boo!

Deja Vu will be at The Coast in full costume this Wednesday the 26th! Come hear the new songs and hey, just see what they're wearing, if nothing else. Drink specials include domestic longnecks, wine, and wells for $2 all night long!

They'll also be sportin' Halloween duds at Firehouse on Friday and Just 1 More on Saturday! Sexiest costume contest all three nights!

Skunkweed's Hallo-weed Bash

from Skunkweed:

Skunkweed will be hosting the ultimate in Halloween throw-downs this Friday night. The full band will be at Revolution Room this Friday, October 28th at 9:30 pm for our annual Hallo-weed gig. We're gonna have a costume contest, cool prizes, grub, and plenty of surprises. You're also going to hear new Skunkweed songs that are guaranteed to rock. So, be at Revolution room off Broadway (inside the loop) for a drunk-fest you won't soon forget. And WEAR A COSTUME. Those not in costume will be seriously ridiculed.

Big Soy record release party

Friday night was the night for Big Soy, San Antonio’s answer to everything indie rock. At the Lounge, the drum and guitarist/singer duo, Adam White and John Edds, celebrated the release if their first full-length CD on the House of Sod label, Putting the ______in______ (which Edds would later announce from the stage as “Putting the Blank in Blank”). Although far from the biggest bash of the year, the band characteristically kept things modest and invited the music community as well as two other performers for a night of characteristically incredible music.

The Lounge itself is relatively small. But what it lacks in size, the club more than makes up for it in charm. Yes, there’s a bar and a pool table, a television and plenty of places to sit. There’s even an awesome jukebox that carries everything from rap to alternative to classic rock. But what I like the most about the Lounge is the closeness you feel with the performers on the stage. The only thing that’s miked to the PA is vocals (which are mixed behind the bar) and the stage itself couldn’t be more than a foot off the ground—giving any performance an at “at home” feel.


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Druggist

Plugged in and alive with sound, Druggist set the evening off to an incredible start. Led by singer/guitarist and overall nice guy, Blake Cormier, the band was able to effortlessly transcend any concrete musical definition or style. Of course, indie rock would probably be as good a label as any, but there was so much more to their sound. Listening to them go from strength to strength, I heard elements of (good ol’) rock and roll, alternative, and even a hint of country. My favorite song of the set, “I’ve Been Going Crazy” shows that they’re also fans of a good pop song as well. Lead guitarist Zach Dunlap was also a lot fun to watch as he effortlessly weaved his leads and counterpoint rhythms throughout each song.


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k.o.confetti

k.o.confetti was next and I was simply blown away. A train wreck (as in “Love Rhymes With…”) of visual and musical styles, the band played a chaotic mix of punk, indie rock, and threw in the proverbial kitchen sink (I even thought I heard manic drummer Roberto Scamado play a rumba beat for a couple of seconds). And as if that weren’t enough, the band kept the casual listener on their toes by switching rhythms, tempos, and styles mid-song and between choruses, making things hard to describe and sometimes a little hard to follow. But singer Skokibot knew the way and perfectly rode the wave of chaos beneath her (I like her best on that song where she ranted for a verse or two) and traded vocals with bassist Evil Ed, who was dressed in true Psychobilly fashion.


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Big Soy

It was finally time for the band of the hour, Big Soy, to take the stage. Smartly dressed, the duo was obviously thrilled at the support of their fans and friends alike that came to cheer them on. Wasting little time throughout the evening with needless bantering, singer/guitarist John Edds (a rock and roll antihero if ever there was one) and drummer Adam White played a majority of songs off the new CD. They don’t have a bass player. But with Edds’s open, droning chords played through a semi-hollow (completely hollow?) bodied electric guitar, he seemed to fill up the musical spectrum nicely enough on his own. White was more than imaginative behind the kid as he kept the beat steady only to toss in at will some tasty fills in sync with the guitar, making for a very infectious sound.


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The big finish...

There were several highlights throughout the evening. My favorite song, “Papasan” had an infectious mix of droning guitar and rock beats, coupled with Edds’s singing his own private revelations about the world. I would go so far as to say this song clearly defines the unique sound of Big Soy (let’s agree to disagree). A song that really seemed to strike a chord with the audience (among others) was “The Noise You Make,” where a small but very dedicated number of audience members sang along with the middle verse with much enthusiasm and glee. I missed the title of the final song (I don’t think it’s on the CD), but it underlined Big Soy's flair for subtle dramatics. The song, starting off as a lofty dreamscape punctuated with the bells of White’s cymbals, quickly segued into a monolith of distorted guitar and feedback. With White flailing about the drums but keeping time, Edds stepped onto his (small) amp and let the tensions build before he leaped back onto the stage. He then haphazardly dropped (and broke) his guitar, signaling the end of the song and the show.

Show dates:

Druggist: November 1 at the The Sanctuary, November 15 at Carousel Lounge in Austin


k.o.confetti: Evil Ed told me they're playing this Friday at the Lounge and another gig on Halloween, but you best write them to make sure where and when.



Big Soy: November 1 at The Sanctuary, November 5 at Atomix, November 15 at Carousel Lounge in Austin, December 8 at Atomix

Sunday, October 23, 2005

Alter Ego at Verizon Wireless

Big congrats to Alter Ego, who just sent me this news:


Just wanted to send you a note on a very cool gig we have coming up on Sunday, Oct. 30. I got a call from Pace Concerts Friday and they have asked ALTER EGO to play on the second stage at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2005, before the Def Leppard/Cheap Trick show! Natuarally, I was pretty floored when I got the call, but I immediately said HELL YES we would play! We're scheduled to play from 5-5:45 p.m. and then from 6:30-7 p.m., so we're looking forward to playing 105 minutes of our very best songs!
Seems Pace Concerts called 102.7 K-ROCK and asked who they would recommend as a good cover band to play this gig and they immediately recommended ALTER EGO, so a BIG thank you goes out to Brian from K-ROCK and all the great people we have worked with over there on previous gigs.
This is GREAT exposure for us, and should be a hell of a lot of fun to play, PLUS getting to see the concert! And we'll be at the Falls on Thursday, Oct. 27 and at the I-35 Hooligan's Friday Oct. 28.

Idiomatics at Atomix Thursday

Saturday, October 22, 2005

Tips for Booking Gigs

I was surfing around and found some tips for booking gigs that I thought might be useful to bands just starting out. I posted them over at the SA Rocks Forum so bands could add their own tips from their experience. If you have any advice on booking gigs, pop on over there and share!

About 180 Grams

I hear the in-store concert at 180 Grams last night, with Indian Jewelry and Skullening, went very well (100 people, no cops, no complaints). I really wanted to go myself, but unfortunately I couldn't make it. Anyway, Alfonso pointed out this article about 180 Grams in the Current to me and I found it very interesting. If you want to learn more about this new indie record store, check out the Current article on 180 Grams.

21BLACK at Massimo

from 21BLACK:

21BLACK will be appearing at Massimo Ristorante e Bar tonight!

Oct 22, 2005 Sat 9:30pm-1:20am
Massimo Ristorante e Bar
1896 Nacogdoches, San Antonio, TX 78209

Please check our calendar at http://www.21black.com for our list of all upcoming appearances. We hope to see each of you soon ! We thank each and every one of you for the tremendous support and positive vibes.

Rigor Mortis

The original RIGOR MORTIS line up of Bruce Corbitt, Mike Scaccia (MINISTRY, REVOLTING COCKS), Casey Orr (GWAR, X-COPS, THE HELLIONS, THE BURDEN BROTHERS), and Harden Harrison (PERVIS, SPEEDEALER, MITRA) have announced their first shows together in 15 years. The Re-Animate tour starts with a handful of Texas dates in October, with tentative plans to continue after the first of the year followed by a new album.

jack's patio bar (jackspatiobar.com) san antonio texas sunday oct 23
lucy's san marcos (lucyssanmarcos.com) san marcos texas oct 24

Friday, October 21, 2005

Sol Patch This Weekend

from Sol Patch:

It's gearing up to be a beautiful weekend here in the Hill Country! So, take advantage of it!

On Friday, sail on over to the Yacht Club (1521 Junction Hwy.) in Kerrville as we play at what's looking to be a new venue for live music in town! There is a very cool vibe coming from this place, and we're gonna be there to heat things up a bit! Music starts at 9. Don't miss out! And it's right on the river!

On Saturday, we hop,skip, jump, jive and wail on over to the Guadalupe River Club (1483 Junction Hwy.) and continue on with the maddness. Always a good crowd there for us! Show starts at 9:30!
Hope you all enjoy the weather and thank you for supporting live music!

Thursday, October 20, 2005

Alter Ego at BoozeHounds & Hooligan's

It's late October and what is that time for? The World Series ...Go Astros!! The start of basketball season... Go Spurs Go!!! And it's time to get out during these beautiful evenings and enjoy some live music!

ALTER EGO has two GREAT places for you to enjoy this weekend ....on FRIDAY, OCT. 21, beginning at 10 p.m., we'll be at BOOZEHOUNDS, located at 8531 PERRIN-BEITEL, just off Loop 410 and right next to Lack's. We love playing this centrally located club ...they treat their customers and bands great, there's plenty of room and plenty of TVs and pool tables!

On SATURDAY, OCT. 22, we'll be at the HOOLIGAN'S over at 10855 I-10 NORTH, at the old Dukes's Roadhouse, and north of Wurzbach on the northbound side access road. We've already played the I-35 Hooligan's a few times and have gigs at both location throughout the rest of the year. However, this will be our first show at the I-10 location, so we're really looking forward
to seeing a lot of friendly faces at this gig! And you can enjoy great drink specials and tasty food as well at this huge party destination.

We've got a rare Thursday gig next week, Oct. 27, at the FALLS, over at 226 Bitters, just off Hwy 281 and Embassy Row. And we'll be back at the I-35 Hooligans Oct. 28. There are PLENTY of gigs coming up for the rest of October, and throughout November and December, so check out the website at www.thebandalterego.com for updates. We really hope to see you this weekend, and thank you for all your support, on behalf of all of the members of ALTER EGO!

TKF - Hemmingway's Tavern

The Killing Floor will be performing Friday night, Oct. 21 at Hemmingway's, located at 8931 Wurzbach Rd. (877.5410.)

Showtime is 10:30pm 'til closing with NO cover.

More Cool Peeps on MySpace

I did a post on Cool Peeps on MySpace a while back and I meet so many cool people on there, I figured I'd just throw some of them up here now and then just cuz they rock! So, here we go:


The Jessmeister - she spins local music on KUIW Tuesdays & Thursdays 8-10 and is very into local music.

Chris Roxx - owner artist at Jolly Roger Tattoo and drummer for The Undercovers

Ghost Cat Productions - if you ever want to know what's going on at Atomix, here's a good place to check (also listings for The Sanctuary and The White Rabbit)

Mack Damon - owner of Rhapsody Street Studios

Everlong Recording - they record mostly indie/metal/hardcore stuff, but will record any type of music. They charge by the song, not by the hour, so you can take your time.

Wednesday, October 19, 2005

51 Acres at Crabby's and The Place

from 51 Acres:

51 Acres will be at Crabby Jack's this Friday (10/21) @ 10pm. As always there is NO COVER, 18 and up are welcome, and Crabby's has some of the best seafood and cheap drinks around. Since its cooled down a bit the patio has been nice and pleasant, so come on out.

Then 51 Acres will be at The Place (Bandera and Eckert) on Saturday (10/22) to celebrate our good friend Ted's B-day. It should be an all out party so come on out to the Northwest side of town and party with the Acres.

All necessary info is always available on the website!!!


***We have to say thank you to everyone who came out to the ReBar for our 100th show. It was a huge success and the live recording of that show should be out in the next month or so. It was a great party and it was so good to see so many of our friends and family there. You guys are the reason we do this!!!

Nov 11 at Ampus

Sexto Sol at Broadway BrewHaus

from Sexto Sol:


Sexto Sol will be performing at Broadway Brew Haus (Located at 2411 Broadway) this Saturday, Oct. 22nd, 10pm. Broadway Brew Haus is a very cool small venue located near Brackenridge Golf Course. This used to be a bar called the Iron Armadilla. I encourage all of you to check out the scene. The band has had successful shows w/ great listening crowds every time we've performed there. Call (210) 354-4766 for more information regarding the show.

Hope to see all of you out on Saturday!

Ruben V at Casbeers and Luna

from Ruben V:

Hey Everybody, just letting you know where we're at this week. Wednesday night I'll be at Casbeer's on Blanco Ave. at 8:00 with Jimmy Spacek. Friday night I'll be with my band at Luna Live on San Pedro just inside the loop. Come on out. We'd love to see you.

Tonight at Rock City Bar

Rock City Bar

Del Castillo at Floore's

from Del Castillo:

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THESE SHOWS --

TONIGHT, WEDNESDAY / OCT 19 / COLLEGE STATION / TIME SQUARE -- 10:00 PM Showtime

FRIDAY / OCT 21 / HELOTES (SAN ANTONIO) / FLOORE’S -- 8:30 PM Showtime, with MONTE MONTGOMERY!

SATURDAY / OCT 22 / NAVASOTA / GRIMES COUNY EXPO CENTER / Benefit for the St. Joseph Hospital Foundation of Bryan, TX – 8:00 PM Showtime

We then hit the road to visit some of our favorite towns: Oklahoma City, St. Louis, Kansas City, Chicago, Indianapolis, Memphis, Nashville, and Atlanta.

SPECIAL NOTE: The Waco Cultural Arts Festival, previously cancelled due to Hurricane Rita, is now rescheduled for Saturday, November 12th, with Del Castillo closing the show at 10:00 PM.

Tuesday, October 18, 2005

Mark Monaco at Hooligan's Tonight

from Mark Monaco:

Tonight, Tuesday Oct. 18th, we’ll be playing the KJ97 Country Music Series at Hooligan’s Bar & Grill in Live Oak (13920 IH-35 N @ Loop 1604). The show is free and we will start at 8pm. For more info visit www.hooligansbarandgrill.com or call (210) 654-4444.

Monday, October 17, 2005

Nine Inch Nails: Live With Teeth 2005

Thanks to jeordie from MySpace for this review:

So what does NIN do when they come to San Antonio? They play the most intense, powerful, and extreme show you'll ever see! Being there was a true concert experience for all present, and for those who missed out, I'm sorry. There's just no words to describe the night.

Let's begin with the wait in line. My partner and I arrived to the SBC Center somewhere close to 5:30 pm. A large crowd was already showing up, and many more were waiting at the ticket line to purchase whatever tickets were left. We make our way into the venue at 6 pm, but both my partner and I had to go to the wristband booth to be allowed access to our GA area as indicated on our tickets. So once we're inside, there was maybe about an 1 hr. 15 min. wait for the show to kick off. Many NIN fans were showing up in great amounts. Boring stufff for the next time wait... on to the good stuff.

The openers, Death From Above 1979, began their set at 7:30 pm. The Toronto, Canada noise rockers really caught me by surprise. Comprised of only a drummer/vocalist and a bassist, they sounded like a four man band. The lack of guitars was occupied by very heavily distorted bass. They played a 30 minute 7 song set of pure ear deafening rock that really pleased my ears. The bassist did some really weird noises on his ax, but really impressed me with his mixture of vocals, synths, and bass altogether to get a very distorted robotic voice during one of their songs. This band is definitely one to look out for. They do not disappoint.

So after thinking to myself, Man this show is already going well, shortly then the quirky stoner rockers Queens Of The Stone Age hit the stage at around 8:20 pm with a bang. They began their set strong, and included such hits like No One Knows, Little Sister, and Go With The Flow. I was only disappointed to not know much of their music. They really heated things up with their 14 song set that lasted maybe close to an hour. Their music was a bit reminiscent of being caught in a desert, smoking pot and just having an acid trip to music, although I've never done that. The crowd was really going this time, with all the shoving and piling up on one another being just a cautionary sign of what was to come later on.

After QOTSA, NIN fans around me were getting desperate to see the main attraction. Lots of pushing and shoving was going on, and no one could contain their excitement during the half hour wait. Then the lights drop, and NIN's intro was heard through the speakers. They kicked off their set with "Love Is Not Enough" from their latest release, With Teeth. The band played the song behind a transparent curtain, and the silhouette of the band made the crowd all the more excited. The intensity of the crowd went up in great amounts, as many people battled for air to breathe. Through out their 2 hour set, Trent snarled at the crowd, and for his age (40), showed lots of energy. Bassist/guitarist Jeordie White remained in the same spot throughout the night, not really moving much. Guitarist Aaron North was the most overhyped person on stage. He jumped around, threw his guitar all over the place, ran around kicking and throwing other things he could possibly send flying. Keyboardist Alessandro Cortini added the familiar ambience and texture to the songs. The absence of drummer Jerome Dillon was saddening(he's been diagnosed with a heart disorder), but newcomer Alex Carapetis really amazed me with his playing. NIN played big chunks of The Downward Spiral and With Teeth, and also played their older hits like Head Like A Hole, Sin, and Terrible Lie from Pretty Hate Machine. The soft and popular ballads Hurt and Right Where It Belongs were very beautiful moments of the night, with the crowd lighting up their lighters and cell phones shining as well. Trent continuously kept thanking the crowd, and looked very happy and alive at the SBC Center.

Skunkweed at Lucky's

Skunkweed will be at Luckys off Nacogdoches this Friday night, 10-21-05. We will be rocking out with some new material as well as your Skunkweed favorites so don't miss it. Show start at 9:30PM. Also make plans for the ultimate Halloween throwdown when Skunkweed has its annual Hallo-weed party. It's Friday the 28th at the Revolution Room...Take Broadway inside the loop - it's across the street from Rebar. We will have the FULL BAND playing in full costume, a costume contest, wacky games, nudity, a buffet...basically everything a rockin Halloween party needs. Check our website for more details.

Sunday, October 16, 2005

Deja Vu Needs New Singer

Deja Vu is looking for a new lead singer! Our current singer Brett won the Texas state lottery and is moving! If you want to sing with a kick ass dance band, go to www.thedejavuband.com and e-mail Jason or Brett. Check out the song list...we play everything from Motley Crue to When In Rome, Depeche Mode to Nickelback, Rick James to Limp Bizkit, and we do them all damn well...you should be up to the challenge!

Brett's last gig is November 19th, so we need somebody who can start gigging on the 23rd of November for a rockin' debut/pre-Thanksgiving party at Firehouse Pub!

We play about 10-12 shows a month, mainly on the weekend. Contact us now!

Jammin at Rock City

A lot of the show last night at Rock City Bar was plagued with sound problems - microphone troubles, feedback - and as any man can tell you, equipment failure can be embarassing, but the band members handled it perfectly, laughing it off and giving us their all anyway.

First up was ESE from Houston:

ESEESE

Here's where the problems began. We couldn't hear them when they sang. Their sound was fast-and-furious hard-driving Texas punk rock, so without being able to hear the vocals, the songs all sounded a lot alike. Good, but very similar. Fast punching power chords, heavy rhythms, and Uncle Knotch has some of the fastest fingers on bass I've ever witnessed. ESE comes to San Antonio a lot, so I'll have to catch them another time when I can really hear their songs.

Next up, Vatos Locos, also from Houston:

Vatos LocosVatos Locos

Same problem, we could hear C. B. on vocals a little bit, but not very well. Vatos Locos is a very energetic band, great heavy punk rock. C.B. has great fun with his guitar, playing it like a gun shooting the audience, giving a pretty girl walking by a lewd gesture with it, and cranking out some cool guitar licks, too. Finally on their last song I could hear the vocals a little better, and what they reminded me of was when I saw Smash Mouth in concert at the White Rabbit. (If you've never seen Smash Mouth in concert, know that they play a lot heavier than they do on their cd's.) Another band I'll have to catch again.

Third on the bill, Double Clutch:

Double ClutchDouble Clutch

Catching Double Clutch is one of main reasons I went to this gig. I met singer/guitarist Spider Mike at Rock City a few weeks back and he's a very interesting person. Tall, lean and mean...(except he's not really mean, but he looks like he would be)! They don't have a web site because Mike is allergic to the internet...he shudders when he says "e-mail."

JCM of The Killing Floor plays bass for Double Clutch and I asked one of his people exactly what kind of music Double Clutch played and the response was, "You tell me." So while I was listening, I was trying to come up with a fitting description: they're heavy, fast, guitar riffs bordering on metal, very Texas sound...then I heard two descriptions that were better than anything I could come up with. Spider Mike said they're "the world's meanest redneck rock band" and someone else said "ZZ Top on speed." So there ya go.

Again we had trouble hearing the vocals and between songs there was some terrible feedback coming from one of the amps (faulty cord I think) making it hard to catch Mike's between-song bits. So again, I didn't really get the full experience of the music. However, I have a Double Clutch cd, so I'll have to break that sucker out and do my first cd review.

Last up was The Killing Floor, with Jacob (who filled in for drummer Jack while he was out with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome surgery) sitting in on some congas and Warren and Deon of Amplifyd jumping in for some jams. Rock City's own Garbage at one point nudged Jack off his drums and jammed with them for a bit. TKF replaced the microphones with their own, so we finally got some vocals! Now I've already reviewed The Killing Floor with Amplifyd, so I won't get all wordy...I'll just do it this way:

5 Things I Learned Last Night at Rock City

1. Jack is crazy. OK, I already knew that, but here's proof.

Jack on drums
2. Don't touch JCM's guitar!

Hands Off!
3. Playing the guitar like a piano is always cool.

Carlos Healey
4. Garbage plays a mean drum.

Garbage
5. Ok, I didn't really learn 5 things, but here's a pic of the jam!

Jammin

Where to catch 'em:

ESE - no SA gigs listed right now

Vatos Locos - Ditto

Double Clutch - at Sam's Burger Joint next weekend (Friday I believe)

The Killing Floor - Saturday Oct. 22nd at Hemmingway's, November 4th & December 2nd at Rock City Bar

Amplifyd - no gigs listed at this time

Featured Artist

I was just over at PureVolume and guess who the featured artist is? The Panic Division! Congrats guys!

NIN After-Party

Didn't get this info in time to put it in tonight's listings, but here it is:

Nine Inch Nails After Party @ Atomix with Vespertine
1902 McCullough Ave.

$2 off admission with NIN ticket stub

Friday, October 14, 2005

Sexto Sol at Rosario's

from Sexto Sol:

I know this is last min. but we just got word last night that we will be performing at Rosario's Restaurant located at 910 S. Alamo (call 223-1806 for more details). Please come out and show your support! NO COVER.

Also we will be at the Juevo's Ranchero's Gala tomorrow morning (located in the Guadalupe Arts Pavillion) as well as playing with Los Mescalero's for their CD release at Salute tomorrow night. Please check www.sextosolsa.com for more details!

Band Seeking...

San Antonio band seeking vocalist and drummer to complete line up. Must be between 18-21, have equipment, transportation, experience, desire to hit it big, and creativity. We are comprised of bass and guitar right now and are experienced musically and onstage. We've been a band for 3 years and have a demo recorded.

Influences include System Of A Down, Tool, A Perfect Circle, Cold, Nonpoint, 10 Years, Nine Inch Nails, Mudvayne, Metallica, KoRn, Disturbed, among others. We also like other styles, and all and every style is welcome so long as a good mixture comes about.

We have a desire and drive to become known in San Antonio, work hard and go the extra mile to get a record contract with a major label, and hit the road in support of our music. If you're this determined and interested, email Frank @ coldclown8687@yahoo.com

21BLACK at Charlie Brown's

21BLACK will be appearing at CHARLIE BROWN'S NEIGHBORHOOD this Saturday!

Oct 15, 2005 Sat 9pm-1am
Charlie Brown's Neighborhood
11888 Starcrest Dr, San Antonio, TX 78247

Please check our calendar at http://www.21black.com for our list of all upcoming appearances. We hope to see each of you soon ! We thank each and every one of you for the tremendous support and positive vibes.

Swindle Time

from The Swindles:

Lots of shows starting tonight at the Scenic Loop Cafe & Bar. It's gonna be a great night for dining and dancing under the stars on George's patio. Don't you love this season? Back on Armour we used to call this time of year our our small window of San Francisco weather. Enjoy it while you can cause the window really is small!

The Swindles at Scenic Loop CafeHere we are on stage at the Scenic Loop Cafe and Bar! This is a really nice place, good food, good drinkin' and an incredible wait staff. I love the bar! Really, I do.. I love bar! I love bar! I'm not just saying that. I mean it. I love bar!

County Line on Wednesday Night!

We are proud to be back at the County Line this Wednesday to participate in their Ancira Music Series! Come on out and meet Randy, Scooter and the gang as we drink all their beer and eat all their bad ass barbecue.

SpitFire at Roxy Saturday

Please come and join the Spitfire band at Roxy’s Sports Bar on Saturday October 15, 2005. Please visit their website for more information on their show times and photos taken from different shows. Also, if you get a chance, please sign their guestbook and leave feedback on the band or the website. Thanks!

www.spitfireband.5u.com

Roxy's Sports Bar

3249 Wurzbach

9 PM - 2 AM

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Helping

Seriously guys, SA Rocks needs your support. If you would like to help out, there are several ways you can do it.

1) Sponsor SA Rocks - and promote your band/club/business at the same time!

2) Donate to SA Rocks - click on the "Support SA Rocks" button on the sidebar and donate any amount through PayPal - you can put it on your credit card. A buck or two wouldn't kill ya.

3) Check out some of the links in the Google Ads on the sidebar. Who knows? You might find a cool new site!

4) Mention the sponsorship opportunity (really cheap advertising) to people you know in the local businesses involved in music - music stores, record stores, clubs, promoters, recording studios, etc. I spread the word about you guys - return the favor!

Alter Ego at the Roxy & Clicks

After a relatively light weekend, we're back with a full slate of gigs through October, November and December! And with the evenings cooling off a bit, it's even better to find a great club to hang out at. Well, this week, we have TWO for y'all to enjoy!

On FRIDAY, OCT. 14, we'll be at the Northwest Side's best spot to party, THE ROXY, at 3249 WURZBACH, right across from Ingram Park Mall. Easily one of our favorite gigs, we always seem to have a great crowd, a great sound, and especially a great time there! Gig time is 9:30 p.m. and there's never acover!

On 9:30 P.M. on SATURDAY, OCT. 15, we're playing our first gig at CLICK'S BILLAIRDS, located at 11531 WEST AVENUE, just off Blanco. We've heard a lot of good things about this Click's location, and we're hoping you'll come on out and help us show this new North Side location a little ALTER EGO-style party!

In the coming weeks, we'll be playing at Boozehounds, both Hooligan's locations, the Falls, the new Q-Bar, Wise Guys Tripp's, the Broadway Brewhaus and much more. Keep up to date by checking out the website at www.thebandalterego.com. YOU are the ones helping us get these great gigs, because YOU are supporting the band week after week! We could not do what we do without you, so thank you all so much on behalf of myself, Tony, Paul and Bruce ... see you out there!

The Latest News from Iris

from Iris:

Thanks to all the IRIS fans that showed up at the Madison AVE club this pass weekend. We all had a great time and it was fun being up on a big stage with video screens. We’re already in communication with their management team to book us again. Date and time TBA. We do have some photos from the gig and we’ll get those up on the web-site ASAP. If anyone has any pictures from the gig let us know and we'll post them to the website.

For those who did show-up then you witnessed James do his best Gene Simmons impersonation. James had surgery about a week before the show and although the doctors told him to stay home and relax he soldiered on and played. Unfortunately, James had some complications which required him to visit the emergency room after our second set. James is doing well but has been ordered by his doctor to sit home for a couple of weeks. He expects a
full recovery but he’ll need to stay away from the microphone for awhile. Be sure to send your support for James.

To replace James on a temporary basis we have enlisted the help of Pete Pedez. Pete used to play in a band called Hair Club and has done some studio work in the local area. We’re excited to give Pete the opportunity to play with IRIS while James recovers.

Don't have any plans this weekend...well come out Friday and Saturday and party with the band. This weekend we’re playing at the Trap on Friday night and at Billy D’s Saturday night. Both places are always fun because you know you're going to have a great time. We’ll start at 9:30 and end at 1:30 each night.

Have you bought your Halloween costume yet? Make sure you plan your Halloween party at the GRC in Kerrville on October 29th. The party is set and the band already has their costumes plans...you got to come out to see what we're dressing up as.

Here is a quick schedule for our current gigs.

Upcoming shows:

The Trap - Fri, Oct 14. 9:30 - 1:30

Billy D's - Sat, Oct 15. 9:30 - 1:30

The Firehouse - Fri, Oct 21. 9:30 - 1:30

Guadalupe River Pub - Sat, Oct 29. Kerrville, TX. Major Halloween Party
with IRIS. 9:30 - 1:30

Buc O' Brians - Fri, Nov 4 Fredericksburg, TX. 9:30 - 1:30

Booze Hounds - Sat, Nov 5, San Antonio, TX 9:30 - 1:30

We hope everyone has a great week and we'll see you this weekend.

Broadway Bar in The Current

If you've never been to Broadway Bar, you can learn about it in the latest issue of The Current, in this article After Sunset by Brooke Palmer.

My favorite bit:

"I had met a guy who claimed to have been on Baywatch Hawaii, I was able to select an hour's worth of good music on the jukebox for free, and I got to play with a remote-control car that lit up and twirled around like a spaceship (and if I'd had a $10 bill, I'd have bought it off the guy who was trying desperately to sell it)."

Sounds like a good time!

Thursday Rocks at Hooligan's I-35 with SpitFire

from SpitFire:

Come have a couple drinks and rock with SpitFire tonight, we need your support. This is our 1st time at this particular Hooligan's. Tell the Management & Staff you want us to play there again.

We rocked the one on IH 10 Huebner back in September. Let's do it again, thanks for your support.

13920 North IH 35, Live Oak, TX 78233 (210) 654-4444

Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Lesti Huff at DeVine Café & Bubba's

from Lesti Huff:

Here's what's coming up this weekend:

Fri. the 14th Jim & I will be doing a duo @ A new place in New Braunfels called the DeVine Cafe & Wine Bar from 7:30-10:30. It's our 1st time out there so we're really looking forward to it. They're located @ 367 Main Plaza & their phn.# is (830)626-6131.

On Sat. I'll be doing my regular solo gig before the comedy starts @ the River Center Comedy Club in downtown S.A. staring @ 7:00.

On Sun. the 16th the trio returns to Bubba's Big Deck out in Gruene on the river. We play from 4-8 & they're located @ 1402 Gruene Rd., # is (830)627-8816. Come on out & have some fun on the river w/ us!

Next weekend we'll be out in Boerne @ The Cellar & in S.A. @ the Encino Garden Grill. More about that next week.

We're teaching a new bass player all of our material so the full band gigs are more sporadic for now. The next one coming up is in LaVernia on Sat. the 29th @ The True Blues Tx. Rdhs. More about that later though.

Have a great week & we hope to see you out. Lesti.

Friday at Bonds

can you put this for me on your site thanks

Friday October 21
@ Bonds 007
450 Soledad
(210) 225-0007
all ages $5 cover doors 9 p.m.

Metal Blade Young Guns Tour

Losa
Classic Struggle

also Crash recording artist

Brick Bath featuring Eric Myer from Dark Angel

w/special guest

Plague and Threat