If you never roll the dice, never risk something, then you’ll never reap the reward of having first learned and second expanded your opportunities to grow. Oregon’s First – The Everything Show set out with an ambitious goal to host a night that would offer “something for everyone.” Without catering to any specific crowd or scene, The Everything Show’s promoter Danny Morgan, Jr. (aka Suganuts), assembled a diverse blend of Oregon’s finest local talent for a night of musical variety. There was no doubt that most of the bands that came understood the vision for bringing such an ecclectic group together and responded themselves by giving 110% in their performances. Meeting several of these unique artists, who came from all over Oregon and were in various stages of their evolution as performers, it was inspiring to discuss the common pursuit of chasing their dreams through the expression afforded via their music.

Being the first act, has a certain dichotomy, where an artist bears the honor and burden of opening a show to set the tone for the night. While Pynt Syze brings a unique touch and high energy, between technical difficulties and a youth crowd confined to the distant balcony the response wasn’t up to par with what the young performer might have hoped for. KTR has a great sound with a meld of classic and modern rock, their compositions seamlessly rotate to brandish the talent of each musician. The play between percussion, acoustic and electric guitars provides KTR with a full bodied sound and the dual vocals gives a smooth dynamic that keeps things interesting in the melodies. If you don’t like ska, be careful stating such around Eugene’s Wetsock as their drummer dangerously resembles karate’s most notorious iconoclast, Chuck Norris. Wetsock brought high energy from the start that didn’t let up for a moment, with a spectacular blend of ska, punk, surf, reggae and swing. Treu aka Tha Hustla is the consummate professional, knowing that if the crowd isn’t warm sometimes you have to manually ignite them. Diversity was definitely on display when you consider that by this point in the show we’ve gone from 14 year old hip-hop local prodigy, classic rock, ska/punk and gangster style hip-hop.

Greenlander has a polished sound and look but don’t let the ties fool you, these gentlemen are ready to get down, with heavy riffs, pace changes and a crisp rock tone. October Rising has carved a local presence with their acoustic indie rock which elegantly plays with instrumental and vocal harmonies. Where time constraints and technical difficulties had prevented Will Woodruff from firing up his microphone for a full scale comedic assault, when intermission made an opening for The People’s Comedian to deliver, the crowd responded. Cracking jokes about his troubles with women and the societal disparities in perceptions of men driving mini-vans. Will is very personable, his comedy and beat-boxing skills played well with an Albany crowd. It’s wild to observe that the band that traveled the farthest, whom has the most momentum going for them currently and perhaps has played on the biggest stages of any of the acts, also delivered the deepest onslaught of musical mayhem for the night. It’s clear why Medford’s hardest working hardcore band, Tallboy, has been able to make such waves, as these young men put on a clinic of passion and professionalism, going all out as well as ALL over the place. DJ Unofficial was totally into the night, spinning and working with artists to add spice to a show that always brought something new.

The great thing about a live experience is that even when you aren’t used to a particular style of music, it is hard not to appreciate the work that goes into writing, composing and performing a song live. There is an energy to live performances that doesn’t always translate through recordings, so whether you are seeing your favorite band live or getting to experience something new, the opportunity to see such talented local artists on display is a blessing that shouldn’t be taken for granted. While there weren’t as many people on the dance floor as some would have liked, the crowd was always responsive, interacting with the bands and even cheering heartily throughout their sets. The biggest response of the night came for the shows organizer, seasoned local hip-hop artist Suganuts (aka Danny Morgan Jr.) who demo’d several of the rough cuts for his upcoming album ‘Natural’, which likely will be releasing later this year. Flo closed the night with her beautiful voice and classy R&B sound. On a night which envisioned a little of “something for everyone” the reception was creatively encapsulated by the t-shirt designs from The Sign Express which displayed a crunked out Charlie Brown and turn table spinning Linus. Oregon’s First – The Everything Show perhaps planted a seed, a vision/tone for what can happen when fans, promoters and artists are willing to color outside of the lines.

What more could be said, props to Suganuts for his vision and the amazing local performers who poured themselves out for this one of a kind show. Huge thanks to the sponsors for The Everything Show: Riley’s Bar & Grill is a spacious and beautiful venue with so much potential; KC Productions & Entertainment for stretching and laboring to make everything work; The Sign Express for designing and sponsoring the awesome Everything Show T-shirts; J Photography for getting into the action and capturing so many of the memories; Downtown Tattoo & Piercing for always being good to Albany music; Hightides Pipe & Tobacco for their generous support; Jack & Jill’s Barber Shop for your support and great hair cuts; Go Figure for all you do for Albany women and your willingness to get right into the mix; Nancy of The Entertainer for helping spread the word on all things local; Noah of The Alchemist for sharing your platform and working hard to help local art thrive; Paradox Production for pushing quality local hip-hop; Magnolia Audio & Music; Movies & Magic; Ciddici’s Pizza; AND EVERYONE WHO PASSED OUT FLIERS, TOLD SOMEONE AND CAME TO THE SHOW!

ALL photos for this article courtesy of J Photography – check/book them HERE

For more information, interviews and updates for live local music concert tours. Local bands, artists, concerts, venues, tours and events from rock, hip-hop, metal, pop, punk, hardcore, alternative, acoustic, power pop, thrash, R&B, soul, reggae, indie, heavy metal, organic, progressive, funk, death metal, rap and more. Stay tuned to hurdcore.com, friend us on myspace and join us facebook Hurdcore is open to partnerships to promote local arts, music and entertainment as well as advertising opportunities – hurdcore@gmail.com – be specific in “subject” line.

For most Saturday, March 27, 2010 will be a close to the week of Spring Break. What better way to celebrate than with ALL of your friends jammin’ to the live soundtrack on exhibition from of some of the finest local artists in Oregon? Oregon’s First The Everything Show will be going down at Riley’s Bar & Grill (124 Broadalbin – Albany, Oregon) with a night of music that will boast a little of Something for EVERYone. No matter what you scene is, if you like music you will enjoy yourself with the rest of the crew at Riley’s for The Everything Show. Hurdcore has introduced you to some of the artists that will be performing (link to article), bring your friends, bring your mom and your grandma and we’ll see you at 7pm on Saturday (3/27/10). To give you a little more background to the show, we sat down with the shows promoter, Danny Morgan Jr. aka Suganuts…

For those locally and nationally who still might not know who Suganuts (aka Danny Morgan, Jr.) is, tell us a little about yourself and what you have learned that has helped you get to where you are as an artist.
SN Honestly I make it because I make the most out of a chance. To make it, is to make music at my will, not to make fetti. I make music because I would be truly NUTS if I didn’t.

As a performer, what has being in Albany, Oregon been like for you?
SN I proudly do concerts and music with Poverty’s Posterboy, Yung Royal, Mr Great White, Tr3u aka Tha Hustla, SOUFside Ink, Weside Ink, Mr 541, Bent, Pynt Syze and EVERY single other rapper in Albany. Much love to all of you. Well I’m sure there are a few I haven’t but can’t quite think of any. Albany is nothing but love. There is nowhere else I’d rather be. Wish I could stay here forever.

You are a family man, carrying a fulltime job by day, writing, mixing and performing at night, how long have you been in the game? How many albums have you released?
SN If you are one of the few that know me, you may know I have 4 boys the oldest being 6 and a wife… If you also have a child you know how much love he/she may bring. I’ve been writing since I was a young teen and performing when I began driving. I’m almost 31 (flavors) and I’m proud to say it. I’ve release 2 pre-pressed albums and 2 pressed. The 5th will be out this year.

You are originally from The Bay area of California, were you performing down there? When did you decide to move to Oregon and Albany specifically?
SN Yes sir. Born and raised in Santa Rosa, California, but became a man in Oregon. I did a few shows as a youngster but not like the activity since I was introduced to Albany, Oregon, two years ago….. This is where we are supposed to be.

What do you enjoy most about the local rap and hip-hop scene?
SN Because of the talent we make each other better each day. The respect and love is top-notch. Unless you were here you wouldn’t know. It gets frustrating sometimes because the local rappers are honestly better then 99% of mainstream artists. They’re hungry. Someone needs to tell world leaders about Albany hip-hop.

Do you remember your first show here in the 541?
SN My 1st show in Albany was THE BLACKOUT May 2008 also at Riley’s Bar and Grill. Dub-U-Records and Bentley was the reason for my appearance that evening. A great evening and a great show.

As I talk to local artists, venues and promoters it seems that the name Suganuts is synonymous with a track record for putting together successful shows. Why do you think you have been so successful in putting shows together? What are the keys to a great show?
SN *I think my partner in crime… My wife is my key to success in that department. With her support and help it soothes the passion. *Time to plan. *Be creative, everyone else is throwing a show so do what only people have imagined and what you have dreamed of. Make it Re-ality. *Great artists, don’t settle. *Promotion—- really hand out the flyers, treat each one as a guest, posters….wait I can’t tell you all of my tactics.

Many of your larger shows have been at Riley’s (124 Broadalbin, Albany, Oregon) which is the location for The Everything Show. What excites you about hosting a show at Riley’s again?
SN It can hold more people and those people can breathe…I think we all are excited to perform at Rileys and with KC Productions & Entertainment. The vibe is great and stage is awesome to rock.

What have been some of your best experiences at this venue?
SN I think my most memorable experience was Sept 4th 2008 when I released the IMPAIRED album. The show was free and it seemed all the artists were ready to blow up. Everyone killed it that night. The place was packed and in my face. It was the best time at Riley’s.

Tell us about The Everything Show, is there any significance to the name? You’ve been successful with rap and hip-hop shows, why did you decide to take on the challenge of putting together a mixed genre show such as this?
SN Well, I wanted to develop an atmosphere that every age, every gender, every genre of life could come and have an F’n blast with everyone. I’ll never forget an instance when I have handed this lady a flyer and she had said “I don’t like that music.” Say NO now lady.

What performers do you have lined up and how did you choose these artists?
SN I’m proud to tell you that the shows being hosted by THE VERY FUNNY… WILL WOODRUFF – *Tr3u AKA Tha Hustla *Pynt Syze *Tallboy *KTR *Greenlander
*Flo *October Rising *Wetsock *NewAlias *Dj Unofficial — and Myself (Suganuts). [see hurdcore’s previous article introducing the lineup]

Any funny/frustrating stories to share about these artists or the process of setting up the roster for this show?
SN I think a frustrating point had been when artists didn’t respond. I feel like I listened to every artist in Oregon. I had to truly love their music. So here they are. I also wish I had time for every single type of music. Maybe by the 10th Everything Show.

What kind of support have you received from the community? Tell us about your sponsors. Is there still room for others to get involved, if so how can they help?
SN Anyone local person or business can take a part in the show. If you think you can help get ahold of me and let me know what I can do for you. You can reach me at 541-286-0131. I’ve teamed up with great local businesses to spread the word about THE EVERYTHING SHOW and the great job they do for the people of Albany and surrounding areas. Here they are: *KC Productions & Entertainment *Jack and Jill’s Barber Shop *The Sign Express *Albany Downtown Association *Paradox Productionz *Hightide Pipes and Tobacco *Downtown Tattoo and Piercing *J Photography *Go Figure *Magnolia Audio & Music *Movies and Magic *The Adult Shop (JK!!!) *Ciddicis Pizza *Hurdcore.com

In addition to the music you are having the show hosted by The People’s Commedian, Will Woodruff, are there any other tricks you have up your sleeve?
SN Well the only thing I would like to ad is The Sign Express is developing the 1st EVERYTHING SHOW T-SHIRTS for your wearing. You will be able to purchase and have any artists there sign it. It’s what I hope to do. They are all great people I’m sure each one would do it for free.

What do you hope people walk away with after they have experienced The Everything Show?
SN With an open mind to EVERY kind of music and the urge to come again tomorrow! These are all local artists. These are your peeps from your neck of the woods. The rest starts here.

The flyer reads “Oregon’s First…” are you planning subsequent shows?
SN Honestly this is the 1st. If the fans, businesses, artists, and the people of Oregon want another, then damn right there will be another. I hope I’m in Oregon forever, but the future is wide open.

What else does Suganuts have planned for 2010? Are you working on a new album?
SN I’m just coming off of a break or what I would call a break (my wife would disagree). I have been spending time writing and can’t wait for YOU to hear. The next album ” NATURAL” this year.

Just so we’re clear, when/where and how much is the show? Is this an all ages event?

The Everything Show
March 27th 2010
Riley’s Bar and Grill – $5
124 Broadalbin – Albany, OR
7pm-10pm all ages; 10pm-close +21
I hope to see you, your mom, your dad and your kids there.

Thank you for the Love –Suganuts aka Danny Morgan Jr 541-286-0131
Oh, and there will be prize give-aways from the business supporters. You may be very surprised in what we are giving you if you attend.

For more information, interviews and updates for live local music concert tours. Local bands, artists, concerts, venues, tours and events from rock, hip-hop, metal, pop, punk, hardcore, alternative, acoustic, power pop, thrash, R&B, soul, reggae, indie, heavy metal, organic, progressive, funk, death metal, rap and more. Stay tuned to hurdcore.com, friend us on myspace and join us facebook Hurdcore is open to partnerships and advertisers – hurdcore@gmail.com – be specific in “subject” line.

We are days away from Oregon’s First The Everything Show set to premiere at Riley’s Bar & Grill (124 Broadalbin) in Albany, Oregon on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 7pm. This show will be a showcase of the depth of Willamette Valley’s local talent, mixing genres to create and atmosphere for EVERYone. An all around music extravaganza to be hosted by the very funny Will Woodruff (Salem). Includes ALL AGES from 7pm – 10pm and then 21 + exclusively after 10pm. With support from artists and local businesses the show will include prizes and lineup packed with some of the best music Oregon has to offer. The Everything Show – a night packed with music for EVERYone!

Hosted by Will Woodruff “No mater what city or town you live in, you can depend on Will Woodruff ‘The Peoples Comedian’ to find you, entertain you diligently, then send you back home in a euphoric state of comic bliss.”

Pynt Syze (Albany – Hip-Hop) 14 year old local rap wonder-kid, if Tech9 knows anything about hip-hop than Pynt is about to blow up the scene! HC:Interview

KTR (Salem – Rock/Acoustic) is a four piece, acoustic rock band that knows how to get down. KTR has been playing together since June 2006 and has compiled a catalog of 30+ all-original tracks. A local fan has aptly described KTR as an, “Acoustic version of Stone Temple Pilots.”

Greenlander (Eugene – Alternative) These Eugenantonian music majors combine everything from Funk mixed with Grunge to Progressive Metal and Ska, crafting a high quality sound with catchy grooves and sing-able melodies. HC:Interview

Treu (Albany – Hip-Hop) Laid back hip-hop that will grab you by the throat, bringing the jam that’s’s known to get down in at least two countries, the ever popular “AAAAYYYY.”

DJ Unofficial (Albany – Spinster) If you’ve been around the scene in Albany than you know who you want working the 1’s and 2’s.

Wetsock (Eugene – Punk) “Wetsock is conjuring up tracks with a unique style dubbed “Ghetto Punk”, blending the finest roots, ska, punk, and blues with their strong political ideals, love of life, and true passion for music.”

October Rising (Lebanon – Rock/Indie) Dynamic acoustic indie rockers, quickly becoming a local favorite, bringing smooth and upbeat sound with gripping melodies.

Tallboy (Medford – Hardcore) Having shared the stage with Papa Roach, Heater and Kotton Mouth Kings, Tallboy is steadily on the rise and ready to bring their high-class, action packed, rock inferno to Albany for The Everything Show. HC:Interview

Suganuts (Albany – Hip-Hop) Mastermind of The Everything Show, come see the always classy family-first swag-father of Albany hit the mic. HC:Interview

Flo (Coast – R&B) “My songs are all feel-good songs, something you can listen to when you’re winding down at the end of the day or just chillaxin, but the beats still get ya toes tappin!” HC:Interview

New Alias (Salem – Hip-Hop) Rap power trio of Smitt Smitty, Rhino and Dalliki have set their creative ambitions to educate fans while entertaining them.

The Everything Show
March 27th 2010
Riley’s Bar and Grill – $5
7-10 all ages; 10-close +21
Bring yourself, mom, dad, grandma, neighbors
*Something for EVERYone! w/ giveaways

SPREAD THE WORD – join the guestlist and share event on facebook!

For more information, interviews and updates for live local music concert tours. Local bands, artists, concerts, venues, tours and events from rock, hip-hop, metal, pop, punk, hardcore, alternative, acoustic, power pop, thrash, R&B, soul, reggae, indie, heavy metal, organic, progressive, funk, death metal, rap and more. Stay tuned to hurdcore.com, friend us on myspace and join us facebook Hurdcore is open to partnerships and advertisers – hurdcore@gmail.com – be specific in “subject” line.

Life is a journey that is not traveled without its trials, thankfully it is seasoned with its share of beauty as well. A Hope For Home assembles as a group of young men grafted together through tragedy and committed to pressing forward in pursuit of their dreams, a process that they invite others to share in through the medium of music. So, whether you are a dancy dude or not, I think you will find a sincerity and even a challenge in A Hope For Home that can be appreciated by all.

Is there any significance or story behind your name? What are the origins of A Hope For Home and how long have you been at it?

AHFH When we first started up, our guitar player, Kyle was dying of cancer. It was a rough time, and it was actually a name he came up with, that obviously had a lot of meaning to him. That was 3 years ago and while that hardship has come and passed, I think its a really cool reminder of him.

For those who are unfamiliar with your set, how would you describe yourself? What can we expect from a A Hope For Home concert?
AHFH Well, for starters we aren’t really a dancy band, which doesn’t really go over all that well sometimes when we play with a lot of the bands we do, haha. Nothing against that! Its just not really our thing. We try to convey a lot of emotion, I guess, and we actually have a really cool concept we might be trying to convey live with this record we are doing.

A Hope For Home is currently based out of Portland (Oregon), are you all natives? With your signing is the band discussing relocating or will you stay local?
AHFH We are actually technically from Vancouver [Washington], except for our guitar player Tanner, he lives in Portland. I (Matt) grew up in Portland though, and other than that, most of us have lived here in Portland for the greater part of our lives. We won’t be relocating, but we probably wont be home a lot!

You were signed earlier this year to Strike First Records and have recently signed over to Facedown Records, how have you enjoyed being a member of the Strike First and Facedown families? How has being signed benefited the band?
AHFH I can’t say enough good things about Facedown and Strike First. Since record sales have so violently plummeted over the past couple years some might see signing as a foolish thing to do, but it honestly has been such a blessing. They help keep us on the road and push us in ways we couldn’t do otherwise.

Strike First Records is a subsidiary of Facedown Records, is it not? In signing with Facedown are you working with a completely new team or is there some carryover from the relationships you’ve already established at Strike First?
AHFH Strike First is basically somewhat of a “training ground” for Facedown Bands. Its run by the same people. Its not at all that the bands aren’t as good as Facedown bands, its just that they are not as well known, so it becomes somewhat of a megaphone or stepping stone. All the bands on Strike First are really great at what they do.

A Hope For Home has worked the local and national scenes, gained a strong following and obviously the recognition of established indie labels, how often do you reflect on the process of getting to where you are?
AHFH It is quite humbling but to be honest I try to not think about that too much and just kindof live in the moment-focus on what is ahead of us and what we are currently working on.

As you move forward, what are some of the defining moments that have brought A Hope For Home to this point?
AHFH So many to count! Lots of days where things felt pointless and that we were accomplishing nothing, and I can definitely say its not the case. I don’t really think of us as at a different place than before we signed other than semantics like having an album ad in a magazine or getting better tours.

You have stated that your upcoming album will address the concepts of dealing with doubt and the search for meaning from a first person perspective of reconstructing reality from meaninglessness. Is this a reflection of where you are at as a band ideologically? Is your purpose to create a discussion platform or do you hope to inject some insight and/or experience into the conversation?
AHFH Well I can’t speak for everyone in the band and the things they go through, but we will all bring our perspectives to the table for this record. This concept is something that sort of sprouted from conversations with Nathan, our singer, and just emotions and things we have been feeling. We had been exposed to a lot of different kinds of bands and scenes as we toured this year, seeing a lot of different facets and faces to the idea of a “Christian band.” We have never been too comfortable with that label, because there are a lot of expectations that come along with it. I’m not denying faith, but I’m simply stating that I (and we) believe in what we do because we believe it, not because we are a part of this “Christian band” club. I also don’t really feel like I have some grand metaphysical truth that no one else understands, and that this record will be me telling people that they are wrong, or whatever. It comes from a point of trying to understand what is real, what I believe, which is something that, at least I think, anyone who claims a particular ideology should do. I hope we can reflect the emotions that go through peoples minds and the doubts people fear, but are too afraid to talk about when your favorite band might tell you you aren’t a “good” enough Christian if this, or that, or whatever. My goal is mostly just for us to express ourselves, and maybe it will resound with other people.

What are some of your early influences that got you into music? Who were some of the influences that helped you launch A Hope For Home?
AHFH I think all of us can safely say that the mid 2000’s bands like Thrice and Thursday are the bands that really got us heavily into music. For me anyway, those two bands have had the most effect on my life and I don’t think I would be doing what I am now were it not for them.

Where are you currently grabbing inspiration from and how has this been affecting your music?
AHFH I got really burnt out on heavy music touring this year, just playing and listening to it every night. Everyone else in my band is probably going to hate me for bringing this up but I really heavily got into Pink Floyd this year and honestly probably spent the better part of the year really digesting their album concepts and music, which is definitely and inspiration for making this concept. Bands like Sigur Ros, Isis, This Will Destroy You, and of course the mainstays are probably what I can say for the rest of the guys.

Where can those interested best connect with you to find out about news, releases and tours?
AHFH We always have dates posted on our myspace and keep it updated with info. Recently we have been using twitter a lot (twitter.com/ahopeforhome) and started up a blog (ahopeforhome.tumblr.com) that we will be updating during this process. A facebook page too. So definitely check those out!

What do you enjoy most about the local music scene? Who have been some of the funnest bands and venues to play with locally?
AHFH It definitely comes in waves in Portland, and we are gone a lot so I can’t speak with the best authority. I know that we always have some good friends to come home and jam with like Something About Airplanes and Fallstar. Recently some awesome new bands have propped up like The Sky Electric from Seattle and this amazing new band called Amos Val that you need to check out now. They are all on our top friends so go check them out!

What have you tasted of the national scenes? What have been some of your best experiences on the road?
AHFH Southern California is nuts. The midwest has some pretty rad scenes too. We recently did a tour with our label mates in Hands and every show had a really solid group of kids, and that was in like the midwest/north area of the country. It was a lot of fun.

What are the weapons (insturments) of choice for A Hope For Home?
AHFH We’ve been experimenting with a lot of different things recently! So other than the usual guitars and keyboards we’ll see what ends up being used on the record.

Favorite place to eat in Portland? Craziest thing you’ve eaten on the road?
AHFHThis is difficult! Chipotle is always good but I feel like a tool plugging a national chain. I might have to say the Montage. Get the spold mac!! Craziest thing on the road…there is this gas station somewhere on I-90 in Washington, I forget where, and they sell pickled eggs…which, seriously who eats pickled eggs? One of our friends pretty much told us we had to try it and I seriously wanted to puke, it was awful.

What have been some of the most important lessons for you as an aspiring artist? Any words of wisdom for those wanting to pursue their dreams of music stardom?
AHFH Umm….just work really hard, play music because you like it, not because you A) look cool on stage doing it or B) can get really famous and popular. I mean, I guess if you really want do to that, go ahead, but I don’t see much worth in that.

Any funny and/or scary stories from recent shows or tours?
AHFH We aren’t too crazy, but every touring band has had their share of stories. Driving the van off the road in a snowstorm in Montana, getting stuck on a hill about 34 times when it rained at Cornerstone while everyone walked past and laughed, meeting interesting people at gas stations in rural America at 4:00 AM, the like. Mostly weather for me. I’m dead scared of driving in snow. hah!

A Hope For Home is currently in the studio, look for them to explode onto the local and national scenes again soon and an album ready for listening pleasure! *All pictures taken from A Hope For Home’s Myspace album – give credit where due to these talented photographers!

Apparently Benny the Beaver is a magnet for rock magnificence. Even several weeks after the 2009 Oregon State University Battle of the Bands, I am impressed and rock-refreshed with the wealth and variety of musical talent that is currently being fostered within the halls of higher educational pursuits in the heart of Corvallis, Oregon. If you are ready for music that is hard enough to rumble your innards while smooth enough to draw fans from diverse musical tastes, as evidenced by the incredible crowd response at the aforementioned BOTB, then Honest to Empire will be a welcome addition to your rock library. Unless you are in the Corvallis or Portland area, you might not be seeing them live until other pursuits are accomplished (namely education) but keep your eye out for Honest to Empire as this is a group who is laying a foundation that could carry them far beyond the Willamette Valley (Oregon). Our thanks to Justin for giving his feedback for this Myspace interview.

HC What inspired the name of your band? How did your band come together?
HTE The story behind the name is interesting in that a friend of our first bassist came up with it. “Empire” was a word that was frequently thrown around while trying to come up with a name and Honest to Empire is something that just sort of came from that. We actually finally got a chance to meet the guy just this year.

HC How would you describe your musical style?
HTE I think we would all describe it as metal-infused hard rock. There are certainly a lot of bands out there that are heavier than us. We try to find a balance between heavy, driving rhythms and melody in both the vocals and guitar work.

HC What is unique about your band? What makes your band/sound different from other offerings?
HTE I think something to be said for our band is that we all come from different musical backgrounds. While there is a lot of overlap among the members, each one has their own set of bands that really inspire and influence them. That definitely comes through in the music. I suppose what makes our sound unique is that a lot of people (including ourselves) have trouble pinning down which band we most closely sound like, and that is a good thing.

HC You are currently based out of Corvallis, OR, are you all natives? All students at OSU? What do you enjoy most about the local scene?
HTE Yes, we are all students at OSU but we are native to the Portland area. I think what we enjoy most about the local scene is performing. There are so many opportunities to perform for school events and parties, and they are usually always great shows. The local music scene has also diversified in a stylistic sense in recent times, which is also very exciting. It’s even better because each band is friends with each other, which creates a very supportive environment.

HC I had the pleasure of seeing you live at the 2009 OSU: Battle of the Bands where you guys put on an awesome show. How did you get involved with the OSU:BOB? What do you plan to do with the momentum from this event?
HTE Thank you, we’re glad you enjoyed our performance. Each year every band interested in competing in the battle first has to pass a preliminary audition held in the winter. From there, time slots are assigned to each band for the battle in the spring. Our first tryout for the battle in 2006 was unsuccessful. After some lineup changes we passed the audition and played in the 2007 battle. In 2008, we won. That’s why we played last at this year’s show. The band that wins the previous year automatically secures the headlining spot but is ineligible for competition, which is a rule that has been a part of the battle ever since we’ve been students.

HC *Sidenote: I was surprised with how clearly Honest to Empire owned the stage, total crowd involvement and the atmosphere of the show that you didn’t even place. Is there something I don’t understand about the OSU:BOB, or do you feel that you got snubbed as well?
HTE Our band looks forward to the battle every year. It’s a chance for us and for many other local bands to perform for an extremely large audience. We use the momentum from the battle not only to get our music and name out there, but to make damn sure that everyone has a great time. It’s hands down our biggest show each year and it’s always a riot.

HC Is there a driving force behind the composition of your band and your method to writing music? Would you describe yourselves as a political, religious or any other central cause/theme?
HTE The foundation for each HTE song usually is the guitar. Ryan or myself (or both) will bring some riffs to the table, and from there the band will begin ordering the song structure and adding the rhythm section until we’re happy with what we have. Vocals are typically added at the end. There aren’t really any specific themes that govern the songwriting process. If I had to pick one, I would say everyday life (how general is that?) is a big theme. Obviously this can mean a lot of different things, but each song has a story.

HC Where can those interested best connect with you to find out about news, releases and tours?
HTE We have a Myspace page (www.myspace.com/honesttoempire), and are also on Facebook. We also have a website (htemusic.com) that we use as well. Myspace is probably the best bet.

HC Where are you at currently in terms of releasing anything and/or gearing up for a tour?
HTE We released our first EP, “On the Horizon,” back in June 2008. As busy college students, we currently have no aspirations for touring. We usually just rock the Corvallis scene, and Portland when we can. Right now we’re going through some lineup changes. We recently parted ways with our good friend and longtime drummer Charley McGowan, who is now drumming for Target for Tomorrow, a Corvallis ska band (check them out, they kick ass). Once we find a new drummer we are interested in recording a full-length album. We have probably 5 or 6 songs to go to fill an album so the focus right now is on writing.

HC Where are you currently grabbing inspiration and/or frustration from and how has this been affecting your music?
HTE Currently I think we have been grabbing more inspiration from the heavier side of things. This has manifested itself in a lot of driving, chugging guitar riffs and a lot of ideas in dropped tunings. We’ll see where it takes us.

HC What have been some of the most important lessons for you as aspiring-artists?
HTE We’ve gotten as far as we have simply from having fun. We write music and perform as a hobby, and also to have some fun with all our supportive friends and fans that come out to see us. An important lesson gained from the whole experience, I think, is to never lose sight of why we’re here in the first place, which is simply for the enjoyment of writing/creating/performing music. Once you lose sight of that, what do you have?

HC Are there any favorite/funny/scary memories from recent tours or shows that you’d like to share? Have you done much touring?
HTE On the favorite side of things, we had a pretty epic run in 2008 with some wicked shows. After winning the OSU Battle, we played on the Ernie Ball stage at the Portland stop of the Vans Warped Tour. We also opened for Floater (awesome) in Corvallis at the Platinum. Last fall we played at an epic block party in Corvallis to an overwhelmingly positive crowd response. This year’s battle was also insane, definitely the most crowdsurfing and moshing at an HTE show that we’ve ever seen. We were all amazed and blown away by how crazy it was.

On the scary/funny side, I will say that for two years in a row now at the battle, Roland’s keys have been basically silent in the monitors on this one part in a song in 7/8 timing where the band really needs to hear the keys to get our bearings. Both years it’s been pretty scary to almost lose it hard in the middle of a song with a few thousand people watching, but we’ve always recovered, thankfully.

Pseudoboss clearly has a classic rock appreciation and builds solidly upon that foundation to construct a rock sound that will continue to entertain for years to come. Having seen them live for the first time at the 2009 Oregon State University Battle of the Bands, I was blown away by their uncanny ability to know precisely at which moments to change direction and tone within a song. PSB’s songs were fun, fueled by three driving guitars (no bass, but it didn’t matter), with crafty blends of pure mellow rock emotion, elements of the bizarre keyed at just the right moments to keep things interesting, timely breaks and periods marked simply by rock greatness.

PSB is an authentic rock bad, no real flash to their persona, but their sound isn’t held prisoner by a specific era or captive to the rules of a singular genre. They appear to be without any agenda other than to create great music that is entertaining and challenging. If you are in or near Corvallis, Oregon you need to get your taste of the Pseudoboss experience while it is still affordable to the common man. If PSB has their sights set on greater things, I have no doubt they will continue to break ground on higher plains.

Read our previous interview with lead singer/guitar Noah here

So, OSU:BOB ‘09 (Oregon State University Battle of the Bands – see our earlier post here) is fast approaching, just 6 days away [Friday, May 29th, 2009]. Pseudoboss is legitimate rock and roll that has been constructed with a heavy influence of classic rock but isn’t afraid to color outside of the lines. Based out of Corvallis, Oregon, I look forward to seeing this gathering of seasoned local artists perform live in their latest incarnation. My gratitude to Noah of Pseudoboss for fitting me in for a MySpace interview.

HC How long has your band been together? What inspired the name of your band?
PSDB The band played it’s first show on November 21st, 2008. The name of the band is inspired from my days in North Dakota where my best friend and his family had an obsession with Ford Mustangs. His cousin rebuilt a ‘69 Mustang to look and have the guts of a Boss Mustang. Because it wasn’t a real Boss he called it a pseudo-Boss. I had since been looking for a reason to use it as a band name.

HC How would you describe your musical style?
PSDB We are a rock band through and through. Fortunately, that genre is deep and wide, so we can explore all elements of what it means to be a rock band. We hit on old school blues all the way to modern post-rock.

HC I noticed that your local roots were as a Zeppelin cover band, do you still throw in some covers at your shows?
PSDB Pseudoboss has yet to play a cover song. Mostly because we can’t find one that we want to play yet.

HC How did you get involved with the Oregon State University Battle of the Bands?
PSDB All of the members, except Conner, have played the OSU Battle of the Bands multiple times. Chris and I played with bands Enterleave and Maryspeak, while Matt has won the event twice with his previous band Sweater Club.

HC Where are you at currently in terms of writing and/or releasing an album? Are you planning any tours in the near future?
PSDB I’d love to be able to put an album together in the future. We currently have the material to do so, but probably are a ways off to make that a reality. A tour is always in the future. Whether that is “near” remains to be seen.

HC Where can those interested best connect with you to find out about news, releases and tours?
PSDB Our Myspace page is currently the only way to find out anything about us. As we start becoming more active playing shows, the page will be updated more often.

HC Would you say that your band/music flows from a central theme (i.e. religious, political, philosophical, etc)?
PSDB Rock and roll by definition was inspired by going against the grain. I could write an essay on this, but in short, why must you sell your soul for rock and roll? Because the Devil is master of going against the grain. The music isn’t trying to push any ideologies, but we do possess them, so I’m sure they come out in the music and lyrics at some points.

HC Where are you currently grabbing inspiration and/or frustration from and how has this been affecting your music?
PSDB There is inspiration to be found in anything that provokes an emotion. I’m trying to start paying more attention to these things. There are opportunities to write great songs at any moment of every day, but only if I’m ready to seize them. It’s a skill that needs to be developed. I’m still at the novice level.

See Pseudoboss perform live as they compete against 12 other local acts (wide variety including metal, indie, reggae and ska) in the OSU:BOB ‘09 [here for more info]