WWF: No Mercy, Best Wrestling Game EVER!

As I sit here and sip on my delicious Vanilla/Carmel Tea I wonder, what is everyone up too this weekend!?

7 days have come and gone and it is time for another edition of A Brutal State of Mind!

Hope everyone has had a great week and now it’s time for the weekend!

We have for you guys’ some good stuff so let’s get going…

Ok so now that we have the logistics done and over with I wanted to start this week out with an Artist Spotlight on a girl with a guitar I know you’re all going to dig.

Sam Allesandrine is a 20 year old girl out of Wallingford, Ct who knows her way around an acoustic guitar.  Now I came across Sam Allesandrine browsing through Facebook one evening, and needless to say I was impressed with the stuff she had to offer. In my opinion she is one of the most talented singer/songwriters in the entire state. In a scene dominated by Hip-Hop and Metal it’s a breath of fresh air to see someone of her age keeping it simple and keeping it honest with such raw unfiltered talent. Now I don’t know much about her but I promise you guys that I will do my very best to get an interview with her in the coming weeks to give you guys all the info and back story on someone who I think will be a breakout musician in the  very near future.

For now what you can do is kick it over to her official Facebook page at…

www.facebook.com/pages/Sam-Allesandrine/110387072396457?ref=ts

Alright it’s time for what is quickly becoming everyone’s favorite segment, Hardcore INK!

Hope Gallery Tattoo up in New Haven, CT is an awesome shop run by some really awesome people. Combining tradition black and whites with some awesome color schemes they really know what to do once the needle hits the skin. A variety of artists make up this shop all with different styles for all different types of customers.  Definitely give them some thought when wanting to get some skin art. To check ‘em out all you have to do is check out their official website at, www.hopegallerytattoo.com

You will not be disappointed!

Ok now we move onto this weekends’ show previews.

To kick it off we have The Fake Foo Fighters throwing a bash up at the Room in Brookfield (who as of late have had a VERY BUSY SCHEDULE, next week I’ve got Vern, the owner of the room, as an interview letting us know about this up and coming venue!) Along with them hitting up the stage is a group of Rock acts that def. fit the bill ~ Delayed Awakening, Speak in Verse, Bushwhack, Charetta, Trapnote, and Face the King. If you have the time it’s this Friday, October 14^th and the festivities kick off at 6:30.

Now on the same night we have a cool metal show up at Anna Liffey’s Pub in New Haven. It’s a cool affordable show for just $5 you get the chance to hangout at an awesome pub, and you get to see… Superbad, White Walls, This Time Down, and Tromitized. It’s a dope local show that will def. be worth a whole Friday night's time.

Ok so I know I normally only do music shows every week but WPKN is throwing an Artfest up in New Haven at Erector Square which will feature more than thirty different artists and will offer a huge selection of different media and work in which you will be able to bid on in auctions throughout the night! That’s this Friday starting at 7pm so if you’re into it than def check it out!

Ok ladies and germs that’s it for this week’s blog hit it up on the twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and sound off on there and on www.Facebook.com/ABrutalStateofMind as always minions...

STAY BRUTAL 

Seriously Tom Selleck Looks Weird Without A Mustache.

Ok ladies and germs here we go again! I’m here to feed you my baby birds with this week’s edition of “A Brutal State of Mind” We got a lot to talk about so we’re not beating round the bush any longer. Let’s dive in head first into the pool of baby-batter!

Ok we’re going to dive right in with this week’s Hardcore INK!

We work our way up to Milford, Ct for a nice shop made up of fine artist and just all around great people!  INKSplosive Tattoos is where the party is this week and you seriously need to hit them up. With experience for days and a rocking attitude and work ethic these guys know there stuff! Original masterpieces are where they shine.  Never ones to shy away from a new piece of work, they will take your art and transform it into a piece of skin-ink you will never stop looking at.  Well until you either die or go blind from falling into a vat of chemicals at the hands of Batman himself… Just saying.

Check ‘em out at their official website…

http://www.inksplosive.com/

Now we move onto to ARTIST SPOTLIGHT!

This week’s Artist Spotlight shines on some really good friends of mine and a band in which makes you poop a little every time you hear them. I am of course speaking off… Cursed By Reason.

CBR out of Danbury, CT is a hardcore band with some pretty rockin’ influences. Seriously a guitar duo made up of Joe Baldelli and Ashley Poppa (yes a guitar chick who plays some heavy fu%$ing s#@t) Josh Ballew rips the drums like not many other do, leaving for a memorable performance every time out. They released their first full length album this year which you can grab off of itunes now!

Even though they have been away from the scene for a few months finding a new singer and bassist they still remain to be relevant with-in the confides of our little musical bubble of a state.  Seriously in my opinion CBR might just be the breakout band of 2012 if they can propel themselves forward enough to grab the brass ring.

Please do yourself a favor and check ‘em out on Facebook here:

 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cursed-By-Reason/118176634887717

Ok I have kept you waiting long enough it’s time for The Weekend Preview!

This weekend I am focusing on one show and one show in particular. WHY? Because it’s a motherfu$#ing stacked card! THAT’S WHY!

This weekend finally marks The Liberty Park Festival! This Saturday October 8^th at Liberty Park in Waterbury, CT . Some of CT’s most bad-ass take the stage for an outdoor show of epic proportions! And I want to help get as many people there as possible!

Well Justin who’s playing this show you ask? Well my surfs I’ll tell you who!

AFFLICTION, GLASS HOUSE, SPIT YOUR GAME, KNUCKLE UP,  HOODS UP, BOUND FOR PAIN,  THE SONS OF KATIE ELDER, AND  SCARE DON’T FEAR!

GET YOUR ASS TO THIS SHOW NO EXCUSES! FULL REVIEW NEXT WEEK MY CHILDREN!

Show time is at 1pm it’s an all day music fest, what reason would be there to miss it!?

Ok that is it for me this week my darlings but never fear, we’re only 7 more days away from the next one. Until then sound off to me on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM. Go out this weekend party, laugh, cry, F$#K your lovers, and as always….

STAY BRUTAL.

Kat Von D, Will You Marry Me?

Uh-oh guess what…It’s that time of the week again! Hide your wives and your daughters because I’m out of the cage for my weekly rage and it’s time to get naked!

Ok so I’m starting this edition off by saying THE HIATUS IS OVER!!!!!!!

What is my blog really useful for if I can’t shamelessly plug my own shit!

Ocecmic will be returning to the stage refueled, re-energized, and ready to melt some faces, and we’re doing it in style where it all began…   At the Acoustic Café in Bridgeport, CT and we’re being joined by some of the baddest motherfu#$ers in the scene!   Dead By Wednesday, Duece Bug w/ the Full Blast Movement, The Brothers Rock, Rezin CT and Mo Niklz will be on the 1’s and 2’s all night long!  This epic show will be coming at you on October 21^st, 2011. Be there!!!  Hit up the Official Facebook Event Page here’s the link à

http://www.facebook.com/groups/138088386270297/#!/event.php?eid=288560834494017

 for the details and come rock out and tear it up with all of us!

Now it’s time for Hardcore INK!

Last week I hooked you up with some old school tattoo artists at Mystical Illusions and this week it’s all about some new school cats that know their way around needles and ink.  Forever Tattoos located at 115 Middle St. in Bridgeport, CT are fairly new to the area but are quickly making a sure fire name for themselves.   Popping color schemes and intense artwork, these guys are kicking some serious ass. Head over to ForevercustomTattoos.com and check them out!  They also are on twitter @ForeverTat2bpt and hit ‘em up if you want some serious INK.

Last week I mentioned an interview, but this is my blog and I am going to mess with the blog a bit and instead of an interview I’m going to give you guys the first ever Artist Spotlight.

This first ever Artist Spotlight features Stratford bread pit masters Ark of the Covenant.

AOTC is compiled of Alexander Vincelette on Vocals, Jacob Johnson on Guitar, Daniel Graves on Bass, and Mike Hnath on drums.  Somewhat veterans on the CT scene, they are fresh off a US tour, their “Seperation” EP, music video, and the ink is pretty much still drying on their deal with Strike First Records.   CT blood’s running through the bands veins mixed in with some NY and Boston influences this band is bringing some more (and much needed) attention on the CT scene.   AOTC is pretty much what you look for in the CT scene, drive, determination, energy, and all around cool dudes. You will not be disappointed! Check ‘em out on FaceBook at facebook.com/arkofthecovenant.

…AND NOW it’s time for this weekend’s shows!

This week there are a few shows which have my attention.

FIRST UP and closing out this 9^th month of 2011 is Tempest Edge and Terra Luna at the Frog Pond in Stratford, CT.  It’s a chill show at an awesome bar with good food, and good people.  Def. check it out if you’re in the area. Tell ‘em  Flores sent ya and have a blast.  Actually who knows maybe you’ll bump into ABSM there!

Also on Friday down at Tuckers in Norwalk, REZIN CT is finally releasing their much anticipated CD. Joining them in somewhat of a preview of the OCT 21^st show at Acoustic Café, will be Duece Bug, along with Premrock, Willie Green, and Mo Niklz of course! Be sure to hit that Fu$#ing show up and pick up that CD! 

SATURDAY 10/1 at The Room in Brookfield, CT they are featuring a band called Limelight-The Ultimate RUSH Tribute Band.  Ok this is exactly why this should be good.  It is one thing to cover RUSH. It is another to say you’re the “Ultimate RUSH Tribute Band”.  It’s going to be something special I’m sure. Joining them on stage that night will be some cool bands keeping the crowd warm. ISpaceWalkSometimes, Con The Villian,  NightRiders, Runamuk, and JAM.  If you’re up that way… Check it out it’s a sure fire good time!

Also Saturday night 10/1 at the Georgetown Saloon in Redding, CT Fuzzy Bunny and The Dirty Cupcakes make their debut into the CT scene on a stage that has graced such legends as Keith Richards and Jose Feliciano.  With kick ass original tunes like “Free Yourself From This Madness” and flawlessly executed Hendrix covers, this band is sure to make its mark on the scene in a monstrous way...  Check ‘em on Facebook here à http://www.facebook.com/groups/138088386270297/#!/FuzzyBunnyandTheDirtyCupcakes . 

Alright that is it for this edition of ABSM.  Hope you guys enjoyed it be sure to check out everything talked about in this week’s blog and as always hit up the twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and…

STAY BRUTAL

It's been a while since I sat down in front of this screen thinking about letting everyone in a little piece of what goes on in my head.  I've gotta say, this little business of mine has really come into its own and I couldn't be more grateful.  As a matter of fact, I am going to start off with that...

This business is tough.  It's oversaturated, overpopulated, and most believe they are entitled.  What I love about the Mindz-I family, this couldn't be further from the truth.  Event after event from the planning stages to the after event "dinerpaloozas" lol our artists show up to support each other in the most incredible ways and THAT is what makes for a successful family/business.  WE do this because WE LOVE TO DO IT.  It's not about the $$$ (breathe Hall) but it's about the grind.  It's about LOVE for good music, great music, REAL MUSIC, and REAL FANS...  It's why we choose to "Make Noise" and it's why every noise we make sounds so damn good.  We are REAL, we tell you how it is and if "you don't like what I have to fu*king say, then turn around and walk your ass the fu*k away".  Our peers recognize it, our fans respect it and we ARE changing the industry... OUR GAME OUR RULES...

So thank you to my family, partner (love you Hall face), our artists, our staff, our affiliates and most importantly every single person out there who LOVES REAL MUSIC...  without you... NONE OF WHAT WE DO GETS HEARD...

So what's been happening?  Wow, I definitely do NOT have enough time to get into all of that, but here's a quick rundown of of what's what with our artists...

Solistic - Released their EP REACH to a packed house at the Acoustic Cafe.  New tunes are already in the works and with a little bit of luck, the full length CD will be out in early 2012!  My Solistic boyz never stop working, never stop trying to achieve perfection, simply put, they just never stop.  I cannot even begin to tell you how nice it is to open my email every day and see a request for THEM to play a venue.  They have made a name for themselves and they have damn well earned it!

She Eats Planets - Well, after what we thought was “THE” line-up we are back on the hunt for a drummer.  Amazing thing is... this band just keeps getting better and better as the months go on.  Movie producers looking for them to be a part of soundtracks?  Yeah, they got that.  Thing about She Eats Planets… What doesn’t kill them only makes them stronger…

Ocecmic – It’s not often that this manager says… GET IT TOGETHER and give me something that’s going to make heads spin, but I did and they are!  Taking a break from the circuit to find a sound that is all their own and create new music that will no doubt set a new standard, the Ocecmic boys are hard at work and this manager would have it no other way! 

dUECE bUG – Two words… FULL BLAST…  It’s the only speed this guy knows and he’s DAMN good at handling it.  Two music videos in and another EP set to drop November 25^th, there is no stopping his movement.  With events booked every weekend, downtime is a word that is just not a part of the daily vocab.  He’s opened for KRS ONE, EPMD, ROYCE -à and that’s just the past couple of months.  Winner of Best Hip Hop artist in Hartford -à ABSOLUTELY!  Big things on the horizon… and that my friends is fact…

Prism – See Thru Soul has a new singer and a new name and they are just about ready to get back into the scene with a KICK ASS new/old sound.  Respect?  They’ve earned mine.  They went through 13 singers before they found the one that FIT.  They did not settle.  They did not let their desire to get out there and play force them into a situation born of impatience and the end result is BRILLIANT.  Stay tuned ‘cause they WILL be coming to a venue near you soon…

BFUNKD – Beth Styles and the Solistic Boyz have been working hard on some amazing new material and along with the addition of two phenomenal singers, and of course the talents of Ms Fonda Feingold, they are setting up a crazy rehearsal schedule in preparation for their debut gig at The Fez on Summer Street in Stamford in November.  It’s not often that someone can make you feel good with a smile, but this band does just that and then makes you remember WHY music is the universal language, the universal healer.  BFUNKD is band with a very basic message… Spread a little happiness, enlighten a few minds, and love everyone because everyone deserves to be loved.

The Bittersweet Vine – These guys just continue to blow my mind every chance they get.  First, I don’t know that there is anyone on the planet that supports the local music scene as much as Evan and trust me, everyone knows it.  Talent?  OH my aliens lol, this boy can do it all and with the amazing musicians he has behind him, there is NOTHING this guy, this band CANNOT do.  Up next…  “UNPLUGGED Nirvana Live in NY” tribute night at Two Boots of Bridgeport… Like I said, NOTHING he cannot do.

There are a few other things on the horizon with regard to additions to the Mindz-I Roster… so stay tuned.  I am always out and about looking for new talent, old talent, talent in general.  I can honestly say that we represent some of THE best talent in CT and you know what… That’s a great thing to be able to say.

I could go on about the amazing relationships we have formed with our venues, but you already know that from the amount of shows we book.  I could go on about the direction we are headed, but you already have an idea because you know damn well this girl has no intention of stopping until REAL MUSIC becomes mainstream once again.  I could go on about how much I love my job and the people I have the pleasure of working with every day, but I think I already did that…

So, all that is left to be said is this…

“IT HAS TO START SOMEWHERE…  IT HAS TO START SOMETIME… WHAT BETTER PLACE THAN HERE… WHAT BETTER TIME THAN NOW???  ALL HELL CAN’T STOP US NOW!!!”

~ Maria ~

Stop kidding yourself, you know you still rock out to WHAM!

Ok round and round we go and it is September 22, 2011 and I have to take a quick little break from Ocecmic writing and give you your fill of A Brutal State of Mind!

So last week we debuted Hardcore INK and the response was awesome. This week under the needle we have an amazing tattoo shop out of Bridgeport, CT named Mystical Illusions. Now why is this our shop of the week? Simple, they have tattoo vets who have been tatting for over 20 years and did I mention they’re all bad ass biker dudes? Yeah, check ‘em out! Now their official site is down but you can check out some of their work at, http://www.myspace.com/mysticalillusionstattoos . Yes Myspace is still around and ABSM doesn’t leave anyone out!

Now here we go with this week’s upcoming shows!!!!!!!

I’m pumped this weekend for shows. Sort of the kickoff of the fall season, FINALLY! I’ve been waiting like 2 weeks for S#@T to pick back up…you college students take forever to get settled.

 Now I’ll start things off with a show I’m personally pumped for. All you Hardcore fans are going to dig this too. Brighter than a Thousand Suns is having their CD release party tomorrow night at the MAXX in New Milford, CT and let me tell you, they’re not coming alone! Kicking some ass with them will be In Other Words, Sleep City, One for All, When in Motion, and a def. fan favorite, As Daylight Breaks. If you have time on Friday then def. CHECK THIS SHOW OUT!!!!!!!!!!

Now onto the next show of the weekend and it’s a mellow rock duo who have been turning some heads on the scene. It’s a party celebrating the release of their new music video for the song “Fight a War” Fifth Nation will bringing their soulful groove to the Hessian Lion in Avon, CT along with and special performance by Pocket Vinyl. I’m def. interested to hearing how this one turns out, as Fifth Nation is a band I dig listening too and have the personality to match! I’ll def. be listening in seeing as how the rowdy bunch from Big Bar Radio will be in the house to broadcast the entire night LIVE! So make it there if able and if not, then be sure to tune in LIVE on BigbarRadio.com

Now to end this week on a good note I want to let you guys in on an awesome bar in which I attend on the regular. McCoy’s Pub in Stratford, CT is an amazing hole in the wall bar of the Irish Variety. A great atmosphere and warm friendly people to share beers with, and let’s not forget to mention the amazing bar food. Seriously want the best bar food in Stratford, check out McCoy’s! As a special treat check it out on Thursday nights, as its Karaoke Night. I know you snicker as you read, but who the F$#k doesn’t want to sing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” Drunk off their ass!

Alright guys n gals that’s it for us this week, check it out next week as Hardcore INK visits the Valley and an interview with a musician whom you’re going to love from the first word you read. As always talk with me on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and you already know….

STAY BRUTAL

********************************************************

Now it wasn't my intention to stick my two cents in on these Flores, but, well, this is ME we are talking about and well, 'nuff said especially for those of you who know me.  :-) While Flores is KICKING ASS with this blog highlighting the ragin'rock scene here in CT, I CANNOT let this weeks edition go by without a commentary on the BIG 4/Metallica/Slayer/Megadeth/Anthrax Concert at Yankee Stadium for which THIS girl was in attendance...

I'm going to start off with this... If there is a single person out there who thinks metal is dead... the 55,000, YES I said 55,000, people who attended this SOLD OUT show would beg to differ and then tell you to "GET THE FU*CK OUTTA HEA!".  From 10 year olds to 60 year olds, Yankee stadium was PACKED (Now let's all ignore the fact that I had to step foot in that place as it was almost sacreligious! UGH! lol) and the energy was infectious.

ANTHRAX kicked off this 7 HOUR event with a KILLER set celebrating the release of 'Worship Music'.   The matching baseball shirts the band wore on stage, each with the number 30 on the back to commemorate how many years they've been active, said it ALL.

Next up ---> MEGADETH.  Days before the show Mustane was injured and canceling was tossed around but the metal legend did what legends do and while a little "slower" than usual, he brought it ---> "I shouldn't be here right now," said Mustaine. "Yesterday I was having surgery on my neck, but I wanted to be here to kick ass with you."... HELL YEAH!

Up next ---> SLAYER.  The noise level when they were announced was EPIC!  The band tore through their headbanging classics with a ferocity I have honestly never seen before.  Mosh pits?  They were EVERYWHERE!!! Everytime Tom Araya "growled" there is no doubt in my mind a nose was broken in one of those massive pits!

The ONLY way to end a night like this ---> METALLICA.  With a kick ass, over-the-top pyrotechnic show from which the heat could be felt from HUNDREDS of feet away, Metallica did what they do best, performed an ON POINT, KICK ASS, PUNCH YOU IN THE FACE, 3 hour long set of mostly old, hardcore Metallica tracks and a very RARE performance of 'Orion' with "This one's for Cliff" - the only words spoken.

After a break, during which a CRAZY amount of equipment was dragged back onto the stage, Metallica returned with EVERY member of The Big 4.  Hetfield addressed the crowd with "We're gonna do something different tonight 'cause NEW YORK you just kicked OUR ass. This one's for Lemmy", and he and a backing band like NO OTHER tore through a cover of Motorheads 'Overkill'. It was... well, there are NO WORDS!  'Nuf said!

Once again the stage was cleared, but NO ONE was moving. After about 10 minutes of crazy chanting, moshing, screaming, cheering, seat pounding obnoxiousness Metallica hit the stage and ended the night with none other than SEEK AND DESTROY...  and my friends... THAT'S HOW BANDS MAKE HISTORY...

Best part of this night for me?  METAL is ALIVE and WELL and as Flores would say ---> IT'S STAYIN' BRUTAL!

MAKE NOISE ~ Maria ~ 

It’s the Great Pumpkin Sam Winchester

What’s up my party people, it’s that time of the week and boy do we have some stuff for you!

Here we go first and foremost, I want to let everyone know that this past Saturday over at Dewey’s Pub there was one hell of a show. Kali Ma, Cyperna, Bound for Pain, and SEA blew the roof off the place.  It was the first time I had ever seen/heard SEA and boy do they kick some ass. In what was jokingly referred to as “Funk-Core” this guitar/drum duo showed everyone that music is an art form like no other. As for the rest of the night Cyperna brought the noise as always and Kali Ma headlined as only they can, but in my opinion the “Set of the Night” award went out to Bound for Pain. I mean when I say it was great it WAS. Even yours truly threw down in the mini pit at Dewey’s.

Now it’s time for our newest little segment entitled “Hardcore INK” I have the scoop for all you tattoo heads out there. Sleepy Hollow tattoos in Milford, CT rocks great pricing and amazing work check them out as soon as you get the chance. Hit up their official website www.sleepyhallowtattoo.com and take a peek at their gallery!

Ok You guys have waited long enough here it is the INTERVIEW of the WEEK! I spoke with Kali Ma drummer Shawn Cavanaugh and he gave ABSM an entire inside scoop on everything Kali Ma. It’s such a good interview and one of the more lengthy ones we’ve ever done here that it takes up most of this week’s edition and you’re about to enjoy every minute of it. So without further a due…….

ABSM) Congratulations on winning best new band in this years new haven awards. Tell us a bit about Kali Ma. What's the name mean and how'd you guys come together? 

SC) First and foremost, we want to say thank you for your kind words as well as a big thanks to all those who voted for us this year as the New Haven Advocate Grand Band Slam 2011 "Best New Band." It is truly an honor to have this award bestowed upon us. As of now, Kali Ma is a four piece instrumental metal band based out of Seymour, Ct. We actually took the name Kali Ma from the first Indiana Jones movie, however, Kali Ma is a legitimate goddess figure in the Hindu culture. Kali Ma, also known as the dark mother, is the Hindu goddess of creation, preservation, and destruction.
The band came together randomly. One of the guitar players, Roy Moore, ran into the other guitar player, Todd Whitlock, at Dunkin Donuts one day and started conversing about metal bands. One thing led to another and they both realized they both play guitar and wanted to start a band. So, they got together and started creating some riffs. Roy and myself, Shawn Cavanaugh (the drummer), actually went to high school together and ran into one another shortly after his run in with Todd. We hadn't seen each other in a few years as I was in the Navy and he was in college. We caught up with one another and realized we were still playing music and wanted to start a band. We arranged a date to meet up and jam and once we did, we all became ecstatic about the music we were creating with one another. From that point on, we knew we were going to become a band and create the best music we possibly could for others to enjoy. For a while, we were having bad luck with finding a permanent bassist for the band. We actually played with just a singer, two guitar players and myself on drums. I started searching everywhere for a bassist online. I noticed a post from What Weapons Bring War that they were breaking up and I immediately emailed their bassist, Jay Madore, about coming down and trying out for the band. Luckily for us, he came down and enjoyed it enough to want to stay. We are very fortunate to have him in our band because this guy has a tremendous amount of heart, dedication, love and passion for music and this band. With being a father and a husband, he still manages to dedicate his time to this band where most people would have thrown in the towel by now.
Kali Ma is more than just music. It’s a brotherhood and a bond amongst us. Were family, but we extend that to our friends and fans who are a part of this as much as we are as well as the many great bands that we have became friends with along the way. It’s just one big fucking crew!

ABSM) Now you used to have a vocalist, but no longer. With that how do you guys approach the writing process? Do you try to write things that sound good alone or do you guys have the mentality that you'll have a vocalist at any point and write around that?

SC) We did have a singer, but due to certain circumstances, he decided to depart. We remain good friends with him and every now and then, he comes out to support us and will step on stage for a song or two. Now that were an instrumental band, we approach the writing process a little bit differently. We feel that we need to make the music a little more complex and exciting to captivate the audience since we don't have a singer, however, a singer is not a make or break situation for a band to be successful. People become fans and go support bands because the music and the band as a whole is good. We feel that if the music is good, people will enjoy and support regardless if there is a singer or not. We are still actively searching for a singer, however, we are not going to settle for someone. We want someone who is going to come in, grab the mic and let it rip. We want someone to take control and command the crowd. We definitely need someone who is diverse with their vocals to help compliment the dynamic changes, melodies and harmonies in our songs.

ABSM)  Now you guys have a pretty big CT following. How does the music scene look in your eyes? Do you guys like it? Could it be better?

SC) We are very appreciative of the fans in Ct. and all the support they give us. We play music because that’s what we love to do, but more importantly, it is very rewarding to play music for those that enjoy it. The Ct. music scene is looking on the upside. It needs to prosper and grow more, but it is definitely looking up. I would love to see more people out and about supporting the local bands at the shows. It will take some time, but with hard work, determination, and support amongst the bands and artists involved in the Ct. music scene, we can accomplish this. There literally are some great bands and artists in Ct. right now that just destroy! Cyperna, Vena Amoris, 5 A.M. Jacobi Wichita, Ocecmic, Torment the Dreamer, to name a few, are all very talented! It’s an honor to know they are representing Ct!

ABSM) What's next for Kali Ma? Where are you guys going from here? What should we all expect?

SC) Right now, the next step for Kali Ma is to shoot our music video for "Death March," which is off our current E.P. and to release our live video shoot from Daniel Street Cafe this upcoming October. We had the pleasure of working with our great friend Ted Freeman who recorded our E.P. and our live video shoot. We will be heading back into the studio this Jan to record a full length album with Ted again. We have a lot of new material lined up to record and are very eager to release it to everyone. As always, it will be free! As far as the future goes for Kali Ma, we just want to keep growing as a band. We want to make things happen, but on our own terms. We made a commitment to do things on our own, but if the right opportunity or proposition presents itself, we'll go with it. Heavy metal is more than just music to us, it’s a lifestyle and we embody that in our day to day actions. If there is anything you should expect from us in the future, it should be us continuing what we have been doing, which is writing music, staying true to ourselves, our friends and family and what we believe in!

There you have all it that’s this week’s edition! I want to thank Shawn Cavanaugh of Kali Ma for speaking with ABSM and be sure to check them out on Facebook and be sure to catch and Kali Ma show near you in the future and you will not be disappointed! As always hit me up on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM also like us on Facebook and share your thoughts! Till next time my children…

STAY BRUTAL

25 kill streak, NUKE INBOUND

Ok guys this week we start on somewhat of a sour note. My scheduled interview with Kali Ma had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances but have no fear, for I still have some awesome stuff for ya this week!

I have learned that this month on Sept. 24^th Silverstein will be playing at the awesome Tuxedo Junction in Danbury and I am going to be there ready to give all of you an amazing review on the night! Not to mention some premiere CT talent opening for them! Be sure to get your pre-sale tickets SOON!

Ok now onto the next. Cursed by Reason out of Danbury, Ct is looking for a new vocalist so if you think you have what it takes to be a part of an amazing band full of great people then send them an audition video to their FaceBook page of covering one of their songs. As always you can find the link on the ABSM FB page.

Also on the hunt for some talent is She’s SO! Entertaining who recently parted ways with their drummer. So hit them up on the FaceBook and give it a shot!

Out of state this weekend not too far away in a land called Poughkeepsie, NY at The Loft is a show featuring non-other than Shai Hulud featuring Problems, Living Laser, I Became the Hero, and Taxi to Alaska. Now I know this is a Ct based blog BUT I have to say I am a fan of this line-up and I know some CT booking agents who had something to do with this show, so if you’re in the area, GO.

On somewhat of a hiatus the scene has been for the past two weeks, but as I type these words the clouds part and the light shines through from heaven. This Saturday at Dewey’s Pub in Seymour is a stellar line-up so good in fact that little Dewey’s Pub will be STUFFED like a turkey on thanksgiving. So do yourself a favor and get there early to see Kali Ma, Cyperna, Bound for Pain, and SEA! This is going to be a gig of hardcore proportions, and I will be there to cover it all! So make sure to get there little kiddies and throw down while getting s#%tfaced. 21+ of course so ID will be required.

Now to close out this week I just want everyone to know that if you have anything you want to promote anyone, or any place please hit us up on the ABSM FaceBook page and contact us! I would love to cover some different things, people, and places so don’t be shy, I don’t bite….HARD.

Next week we look forward to a new segment called ‘Hardcore Ink’ and I promise to track down Kali Ma and getting you all the Interview you’re all waiting for.

Until next time clowns, sound off to me on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and as always…

STAY BRUTAL.

Sept 1, 2011

Anybody got change for a $20?

Hey guys we are back for another week of ABSM and just want to start off by saying I hope everyone has a great Labor day weekend, be safe promo your fav. CT bands and have a great time!

Now I must say this weekend ahead has hit the snooze button on its alarm clock, as it is the slowest weekend of shows to date this summer. As the kids head back to College it’s made the scene coming to a screeching halt this weekend.

Now I am more than happy to switch it up this week and give all you music hopefuls and new bands some advice and tip’s to help you on your quest for survival!

1.       Vocalists do yourself a favor and get lessons. Now this is not an insult to anyone who maybe holding their microphones respectively, but it is a necessity. I myself as a vocalist can’t stress how important it is to PRACTICE , PRACTICE , PRACTICE! HONE your craft and the industry is your oyster.

2.       Bands remember the golden rule, you are a family and UNIT and someone whom I respect recently told me, “There is no I in Team, now go ahead and man the f*$k up and make it happen…together” This can’t be anymore true it’s important to make music together and be a team.

3.       Reach out to your people: This is something that is huge. Whether or not you’re performing that week or not head out to every show possible and reach out to your potential fan base everyone loves to interact. They don’t call it networking for nothing.

4.       And lastly STAGE PRESENCE IS IMPORTANT! We love to see you play your instruments and all but we don’t want to see you up there with you head up your ass. Seriously, it’s important to have a good time on stage and let it show. This is not an invitation to go up there and act like a jackass. Being obnoxious shows. Don’t overdo it just be yourself and it will all come out naturally.

Ok those are the 4 bullets loaded in my gun and I’m glad to blast you all in the face with them and hope something sticks.

 I want to pretty much give a huge blast to all the winners of the The Hartford Advocate’s best of 2011 which included Kali Ma who next week I will sit down with for an epic interview you won’t want to miss!

Now this is pretty much it for this week a short edition indeed but have no fear for next week shall consume your soul of any decency you cling too. As always hit me up on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and ladies and gents over this holiday weekend...

           STAY BRUTAL.

(If you didn’t like this week’s blog, blame Hurricane Irene, my internet was down most of the weekend…it sucked)

 Hey guys A Brutal State of Mind is back!!!!!

Last week was in fact one of the craziest weeks of my professional career and thus we missed a blog. But fear not my little sheep we’re back this week with HUGE things to talk about so you know what in the words of Shao Khan “FIGHT!”

Now last week was stressful but awesome at the same time. Me and the rest of the boys in Ocecmic opened alongside our brothers in My Empire for NONPoint at the Webster Theater in Hartford. Now we might have played the Underground but it was one HELL of a show! Seriously, we opened and destroyed the place in a “FOLLOW THAT” type of style, and of course My Empire closed thee night in the Underground with an epic performance. Of course NONPoint closed the entire show and KILLED IT! It was definitely a once in a life time type of show of the “Dude you really should’ve went” variety.

Now that was last week and this is THIS WEEK!

If you don’t already know what we’re going to suggest you attend at Toad’s Place in New Haven then honestly where have you been? It’s that time of the year…..OPUSPALOOZA!!!!!!!!!

Seriously this is a line-up F*$king STACKED with Ct METAL TALENT! You want a line-up? Here’s your F*$king line-up!

DEAD BY WEDNESDAY
Bound For Pain
Bonded Through Hate
Kayotik
Cyperna
Continuum
Wounded Remain

I Know you’re like holy F*$k nuggets. I was too! I will be attending this show and I will be giving a major review on this next week so if you miss it (you are a horrible person) I will have the INSIDE Scoop.

Now in a non Rock related subject I just want to let everyone of my hip-hop heads who read the blog to head over this Sat. Night to the Acoustic Café in Bridgeport and check out FullBlast Movement 4. This is going to be an amazing event and the first FullBlast event I will be attending so I’m pretty stoked! The entire FullBlast Movement will be in the house alongside Mo Niklz spinning records and JUS ALLAH of JEDI MIND TRICKS and BLACASTAN!

Be sure to check it out if able!

Now my little kiddies we’re are almost at the finish line so hold on tight because I’m going to hit you with a Thunderbolt of an interview.

I recently sat down with my good friend and Lead Vocalist of She’s SO! Entertaining Nikki Dubbs and it made out for an amazing interview. The best part is I have it right here for all you Poke’Fanatics!

ABSM) So Nikki I’m going to start you off with a two part question. (a) What made you want to become a vocalist? (b) Who got SS!E together and started the band?

ND)  Wow talk about a loaded question *laughs* When I was younger, I used to sing in many talent shows, in church plays and the church choir. I loved to sing, it has always been a passion of mine.  I absolutely loved to sing to Britney Spears and Shania Twain, they were my childhood idols I guess you could say.  As I got older, around 8th grade, one of my good friends showed me this band called "The Used". At that time, I was into rock but never really listened to post-hardcore or screamo music.  It was more bands like Good Charlotte, Simple Plan etc. After my friend showed me "The Used", I immediately fell in love.  I was going through many difficult times and connected with their lyrics.  I began to really idolize Bert McCracken (the singer) and everything he did. I was very intrigued by what he could do with his voice; his singing and screaming had greatly impressed me.  I noticed that he, unlike many other artists I was listening to at that time, he put so much emotion into his music.  It was incredible, from every album, every song, every lyric he sang/screamed was so heartfelt.  That's when I decided, "hey I want to be in a band, I want to make music that kids can connect with and help them get through whatever it is they're going through." Bert is the number one reason why I chose to continue with singing and learn to scream.  Now here I am! Me and Heather were the ones who started SS!E. When we first met each other, we hated one another. Literally if looks could kill, one of us probably would have been dead! But after we disliked each other for so long, we became very good friends and our friendship really grew through the music we listened to because we had such similar taste.  Now, we're the best of friends and sometimes we even show up to hang out in the same outfit, weird, right?! 

ABSM)As a female vocalist in a somewhat male dominated industry, who influenced you and what makes you stand apart besides your sex?

ND) My biggest influence, well besides Bert McCracken is definitely Ryan Zimmerman of Greeley Estates.  He is the person who first taught me how to scream and the first person to really push me to get the band in full swing.  He had and still has full confidence in girl screamers and in our band.  He's told me on several occasions "there needs to be more girl screamers in this music industry" and he's right.  I think the reason that there are so few is because the industry is pretty male dominated and many girls get discouraged simply due to that.  What sets SS!E apart is the fact that there's not only one girl screamer but there's two.  I'm not 110% positive, but I do believe, we are the only band that has two girl screamers in it.  What also sets us apart is that, we don't really look like we're in a band, if you know what I mean. Many people mistake us for the girlfriends of Frank or Kevin (funny right?) or think that we are just groupies of some sort.  We get compared to Paramore a lot too, I think it has to do with the fact that I'm blonde *laughs*, I really don't know.  For instance, when we get on stage, we have people who will actually walk out of the room but then give them literally another minute or so and they run right back in as soon as they hear screaming.  No one expects those kind of intense screams coming from me or Heather.  People think we're just these two little innocent girls when in fact, we're just the opposite.  

ABSM) In my opinion you She’s So! Entertaining is a pretty original name. Where'd it come from?

ND) Honestly, SS!E came from me acting like I was 10 years old one night with my friends.  I was sitting in my room with Heather and one of my old friends, Courtney.  We were jamming to some tunes, I decided to try to be funny and started dancing like I had just been given 8 red bulls, completely ridiculous.  All of a sudden, Courtney says "She’s So! Entertaining, isn't she?" Immediately, I started yelling "that's it, that's it, that's it" and both Heather and Courtney looked at me with a sideways grin "what's what?" So I said, "She’s so entertaining, that's the band name" Ever since then, it has stuck. A good majority of people actually remember it too which is fantastic!  

ABSM) Now we know all about the band and the name, but what about you? Give our readers a little background on Nikki Dubbs.

ND) Well first, I'm a full time student, this is actually my last year of undergraduate studies, then hopefully I'll move onto graduate school. I played soccer for 15 years and I still play every Wednesday night in a co-ed league.  I've been playing softball for 17 years, I'm the centerfielder for my college.  I snowboard as well, favorite animal is a penguin, favorite food is Italian and Mexican. I was born/raised in Middletown, CT. My first job was as a teaching assistant at a daycare and then a sales associate at JCPenney.  Now I put on a big tough act as a security guard at the Webster Theater in Hartford *laughs*, well, try to anyways and I'm a lifeguard. Oh, the lifeguarding thing is by a pool, nothing like bay watch!  

ABSM) Now I’m a fan of the band, but i must say anything you guys think you could do better? Also do you have any advice for our readers who happen to be musicians in their respective local scenes?

ND) I'll start with advice first.  If there's anything that I've learned with being a musician is that you must love what you're doing.  If you're not passionate about being a musician, it's definitely not something to continue.  As a metal/post-hardcore/rock musician, you'll lose a ton of money, a ton of sleep and work your butt off more than most people. Therefore, if you're in this for the wrong reasons such as money or to be famous, you're going to end up with a rude awakening. Point number two, never give up.  No matter what happens, if you want something, go for it.  Do not let anyone stop you.  One thing I feel that most people don't understand is that, you're living your life not anyone elses.  It took me a while before I learned this but I figured it's something everyone should know! As far as the band goes, I think we're doing well for the amount of time that we have been a band but we also have a lot to learn.  I feel that our stage performance needs a good amount of work and we're slowly but surely developing that which is great.  Also, we need to fully develop SS!E's music. I'll admit, I absolutely love our songs but we need to come together more to fully develop our sound which we are slowly doing as well. Our new song "Autophobia" is a great representation of that, so look out for that demo in the near future!

ABSM) Now Nikki i want to thank you for you taking the time out and sitting down with ABSM. Anything you want to leave off with? What's next for SS!E? PLUG YOUR S*#T *Laughs*

ND) *Laughs* Most definitely, it's not a problem at all. Thank you very much for having me. Anyways, I'll leave you guys with this. Be prepared to see some serious music coming in the near future for us. We've been writing like crazy and we're thinking about an EP, possibly more. Not only that, but maybe a music video? Who knows, I don't want to say too much, just keep an eye out! 

So that’s it for this week! Be sure to check out She’s SO! Entertaining on Facebook and as always hit me up on twitter @OcecmicJustin #ABSM and let’s chat about this week’s blog. Till next time…

STAY BRUTAL   

Hey guys welcome to this week's installment of “A Brutal State of Mind” I just want to start out by saying thanks to everyone who checked it last week and gave me some feedback! Love hearing from everyone and love the opinions that come with everything. Now enough with the lovely intro, we’ve got some s#@t to talk about!

This past weekend I attended the ‘Bay State Metal Fest’ and wholly crap was that a fun time! Over 12 hours of music, sweat, and semen. Huge national acts like Emmure, Alesana, BlessTheFall, and Memphis May Fire took to the stage and absolutely put on a show like I haven’t seen in a long time. Representing our neck of the woods was She’s SO! Entertaining. A band that everyone should be on the lookout for because they’re making some big moves and are shaking some rafters around the state. Not to mention the very next day they went ahead and played with The Greely Estates and The Plot In You. If you missed this show man you’re something special because it was a great experience. Two stages over 2000 people. IT WAS VISCIOUS. Me and my close knit group returned breaking the “smell-o-meter” smelling like Andre the Giant rolling in hot garbage. That’s how you know it was a show to remember.

Now looking forward to this weekend and coming week we have got some stuff for you to check out!

This weekend marks what I think will be a sick show, that if I am lucky enough to attend, will destroy a lot of things. Up in New Milford at The Maxx, City Ablaze is throwing a HUGE show featuring some pretty amazing bands. Climb The Sky, Currents, Cursed By Reason, As Daylight breaks, and Exalted Corruption will all be taking the stage this Friday night so be sure if you’re in the area and have about $8 to spare to check it out. You won’t be disappointed.  If you’re looking for a little bit of a laid back night head on down to Gallery 77 in New Milford with some cool acoustic performances by Mild Wine, BabySnakes, and MORE. Heading in Sunday we are going to kick it up a notch and head over to Danbury for what is being called the “Big Ass Metal Fest.” You wan’t brutal? This is the place you want to be at! Tuxedo Junction in Danbury is bringing you an all day music fest starting at 3pm all the way until 11pm. Taking the stage will be Tuesdays with Morrie, Float Face Down, Divide the Universe, From Peasants to Kings and many, many more!

Now usually the weekend is where the s#@t hits the fan, but next Wednesday Nonpoint is taking their tour through Hartford and two, that’s right two of CT’s best will be taking the stage with them. My Empire and Ocecmic will be opening at the Webster Theater for this Nonpoint show. BE SURE TO GET TO THIS! It’s going to be a show to remember and if you need tickets hit up either band for a reduced presale price of only $16. Trust me when I say, do not miss this. If anything is a guarantee, it’s that when Ocecmic and My Empire get together, a kick ass show is def going to go down.

Now it’s time! Last week I promised all of you an interview and an interview you all shall get! I recently sat down with the founder of Mindz-I Entertainment Group Maria Manes for a little insight on who she is, what Mindz-I is all about and what’s on the horizon for this company making so much noise in the Northeast. Here’s how it went down…..

ABSM) Now Maria we all know you are the founder of Mindz-I Entertainment, but give us a bit of background. Where are you from? What sent you in the direction to manage artists?

MM) Well, I was born in a log cabin in Montana on a ... *laughs*... Just kidding. I was born in Ozone Park, Queens. I have to say, growing up there was amazing. It was the kind of place where everyone knew everyone and my entire family lived within blocks of each other. Getting away with things as I became a teenager was next to impossible because of that though. Questions like "Aren't you Tony's daughter?" or "Aren't you Jimmy's cousin?" always resulted in my "adventures" getting back to my dad and me getting some "alone" time in my room, but still, I wouldn't change a thing about my childhood. My dad LOVED music and so I grew up listening to everything from the Ink Spots to Floyd. Once upon a time he had this crazy garage band in which he played guitar and my uncle played drums and it was quite the "scene" from the stories I've been told. I guess I always loved music and everything I have done in my professional life as well as my personal life has had music tied into it somehow. Thing is, I cannot play an instrument nor can I sing, (I barely get away unscathed at a karaoke night) but I'm pretty good at business and so managing artists enables me to do what I do best in an industry that I truly love and enjoy.

ABSM) Out of all the local scenes in the US, a lot of them more thriving than the northeast. Why did you choose to set up shop here in Connecticut?

MM) The CT music scene is big and I don't think most people realize how huge it really is. It annoys me that everyone thinks you have to travel into the city or to Massachusetts to hear great talent or see a kick ass show. That truly is not the case, and so when I decided to launch Mindz-I there was no question in my mind that I would do it here in CT because as far as I am concerned it's time to put CT on the map and bring the industry "powers" that be to us. 

ABSM) When you first had the idea to run a management company did you ever think it would be where it is now so quickly?

MM) Honestly, yes and no. I knew after getting my feet "wet" managing Solistic that I had found my calling and as I kept getting inundated with requests from other artists to manage them, I knew I needed to take the time and pay attention to what the Man Upstairs and the universe was trying to tell me. When (Damon) Hall and I set up the initial company projections, we anticipated the "branding" part of the program to happen by end of year 1. It's nice to be able to say that we are WAY ahead of that projection. Mindz-I was branded within a matter of a few months. We really just have the right formula, he handles the financial stuff, I handle everything else, and it works brilliantly. I trust him to do what he does best and he trusts me to do what I do best and we let each other do it. We also always have each other's backs. We are also affiliated with some of the most talented people in the music scene and those affiliations pick up and take over where we leave off.  The formula works and while we will always strive to improve, we will never change the original recipe.

ABSM) It's no secret that "Mindz-I" is a very unique name for the company. Where did it come from?

 MM) It stands for a lot of things actually. When I was thinking up names for the company, I hit up my brother who can be super creative. We were on the phone bouncing ideas off each other for a couple of hours this one day and the conversation veered off track to our paternal grandmother. My grandmother always said that we could "accomplish whatever was in our mind's eye" and when he said Mindz-I it just clicked, I liked it immediately. The more I thought about what the minds’ eye stood for and the history behind it the more I knew that this was THE name. Again, everyone who knows me knows that I am a big believer in God and the universe both of whom have strong "roots" to the mind's eye. 

ABSM) Alright Maria I am going to put you on the spot, in your opinion who are the top tier rock/metal bands in the Ct Local Scene right now?

MM) Wow Flores I cannot believe you just did that to me! Okay, in my opinion, obviously I believe the bands I represent are some of the best in CT right now or I wouldn't have signed them, but truth be told, I think one of the best if not the best band in the rock/metal scene right now is Kali Ma. I had the pleasure of having them on the FuzeOnFest bill and they just blew me away. Those guys are so incredibly talented and professional. The music is so well structured and arranged, melodic yet at the same time has this undeniable kick ass hardcore edge to it, it's simply brilliant. Those guys are going to go far, no doubt in my mind about it. From a management/business perspective, I think the bands to watch over this next year are Hate Your Guts, My Empire, The Brothers Rock and of course Ocecmic, She Eats Planets, and See Thru Soul who are back on the map with a new lead singer, looking forward to catching one of their rehearsals within the next few weeks.    

 ABSM) For my last question all the readers want to know, what's next for Mindz-I and their talent? Any sort of inside scoop you can give on any type of upcoming shows?

MM) What’s next? Well, the sky's the limit and the sky's gone. We are focusing hard on distribution deals, recording new material and CD releases for some of the artists we represent, festivals and tours, finalizing the last of the 2011 events and planning our huge events for 2012, with FuzeOnFest 2012 being one of them. I can tell you this much, Mindz-I is here to stay and we have only just begun to MAKE NOISE...

Alright guys and gals that is it for this week’s installment of “A Brutal State of Mind” don’t forget to sound off on the Facebook page and also hit me on twitter @OcecmicJustin and sound off with #ABSM.

Until Next week.....

Stay Brutal

While sitting here at my desk this afternoon contemplating what I should pack for B.O.M.B. Fest this weekend, it occurred to me that this weekend officially kicks off the summer, for you, for me, for Mindz-I.  Huge Festival in Hartford featuring Weezer, Coheed & Cambria, Snoop, and a ton of CT original arts including Solistic's own John Stavola aka Stavvs aka Face aka Dr. Groove performing with The Backyard Committee...  Damn fine way to start it off!

These days there doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day for everything that needs to get done.  The Love, dUECE bUG CD Release Party is just a couple of weeks away and FuzeOnFest 2011 FEATURING KRS-ONE is RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!  We have Solistic, The Bittersweet Vine and Ocecmic getting ready to drop EP's and music video plans in the works for She Eats Planets.  See Thru Soul and BFUNKD will be making their return to the scene after some line-up changes and all the cover bands we represent and adore are out there bringing you the songs you LOVE to ROCK OUT to on a warm summer's night!  The Mindz-I Calendar is filled with events for this summer including the very anticipated Full Blast Movement 3 Featuring Apathy and an NEW ~ ALL AGES BATTLE OF THE BANDS SERIES at The Steve Hine Academy in Milford.

For all the blood, sweat and tears, there are also an equal amount of perks, one of which is that I get to listen to tracks long before anyone else ever does.  This morning I had a "pancakes" (breakfast meeting) with an artist and after discussing things to come and ironing out some details of things already in the books, I left with CD in hand.  As I sat in ridiculous traffic on the way back, I couldn't help but be amazed by the diversity of this artist and by his growth over the past year.  Then I hit the thank you track, and I couldn't help but be awed by his absolute humbleness.  One of the best feelings in the world, for me anyway, is knowing that I helped someone, in a big way or a small way, doesn't matter.  The BEST part of my job is that fact that I get to help make people's dreams come true everyday and they, in turn, mine.  Mindz-I is a lot more than events and parties... we are making dreams come true and bringing people together using the only true universal language... MUSIC...

So, here's to kicking off SUMMER 2011 with a BOMB and FULL BLASTIN', SOLTASTIN', OCECSMASHIN', PLANET EATIN', VINE DRINKIN', BFUNKIFIED, SOUL SEEIN', BC CONNECTIN' our way through the rest of it!

Be safe...

Much <3

~ m ~

As I sit here this morning drinking my coffee staring at News Feeds and Entertainment Blogs, I cannot help but think... THIS IS REALLY HAPPENING...

Last night our artist dUECE bUG performed in front of a PACKED house at Toads.  Alongside him, Chuck Nickels (ITZ URBOI) CyMatics and B Eazy (BC CONNECT) and DJ Mo Niklz.  The Full Blast Movement was on the stage and in the house and the energy was simply explosive.  It was also quite surreal.

As a Business Manager, my life is filled with meetings, conference calls and contracts.  Believe it or not, it's not as easy or glamorous as it seems.  The countless hours put in to make sure every event we kick off is successful can be exhausting.  Not to mention the fact that there never seems to be enough hours in a day.  Let me tell you this, the moment I stepped up onto that stage last night to film the set I knew, beyond a doubt, that EVERY SINGLE MINUTE spent agonizing over every little detail is well worth it.  This is what I was meant to do and THIS IS REALLY HAPPENING and Mindz-I has "arrived".

Thing is, every great business person knows that you cannot do it alone.  Without people alongside you, grinding with you, sharing your passion and vision, success is unattainable.  So today, I am shouting out to the ENTIRE Mindz-I family because without you, NONE OF THIS is possible.  Together as a team, WE are making noise.  Together as a family WE are making history.  Names need not apply as you know who you are.

Simply stated...

MINDZ-I ENTERTAINMENT... MAKE NOISE

~ m ~

If you would have told me a couple of years ago that I would be leaving my "cushy" Senior Consultant position at a large Marketing Firm to launch my own business I would have told you that you were crazy.  If you told me that it would be in the music business I would have said "now you're really crazy".

Today, Mindz-I is growing at a rapid pace and here I am writing a daily blog for my Entertainment Company.  Funny how things work out.

Before I even get started with the goings on at Mindz-I, I want to take the time to thank the people who have helped us turn this dream into a reality.

To our families as a whole who have suffered through our insanity getting this off the ground... We love you more than you can even imagine.  We have arrived and we are MAKING NOISE...  Beautiful NOISE.

Brian, Phillip, Justin & Kirstyn... Everything I do, I do it for you.

Gram... The "old soul" in me is thanks to you.  Thank you for always being there and supporting me even when you thought I was making a bad decision.  I knew you were always there. "Thank God for Grandma".

Janet... When everyone said I "couldn't" - you said, "Go For It Kiddo and Good Luck".  No matter where my life's "adventures" have taken me, you have always been there, through the good, the bad and the ugly - with a kind word, a shoulder to "cry" on, or a good smack upside the head to bring me back to reality.  Don't know what I would EVER do without you.

Mom & Dad... The sacrifices you made for us will never be forgotten.  Dad, the business person I am today is because of you, I learned from the best.  Mom, thank you, for everything - 'nuf said.

Loren... <3 could not have done any of this without you.

Tony...  Your check is in the mail!  You may be my lil' bro, but your influence on this lil' project of mine was huge... My castle, your bowling alley - eta - COMING SOON - lol...

Hall...  Look at our baby...  DAMN PROUD...  DAMN FINE WORK PARTNER...

The Mindz-I Staff... HAHAHAHA Man o' Man... What can I say to you guys and girls other than "welcome to the insanity" and everyone's job should be as fun as ours!

Chrissy... Never once did you doubt me.  Never once and for that (among many other things) I am forever grateful.

Dan & Julie & The BigBar Radio Family...  You welcomed us with open arms, helped spread the word, and I will never forget it.  Thank you all and get ready for a CRAZY summer!

ESCO... I may be the "Baby Momma Raiser" but you my friend are the "Man Behind the Curtain".

To All of our Artists... FAMILY is all I can say.  You guys and girls are amazing and we are so honored to have you as a part of our family.  All good things going forward... ALL GOOD THINGS.

To all of our friends who have been there spreading the word and scouting for us... We love you and the party is just getting started!

Now that's done... Let's get started shall we?

April is going to be an insane month for Mindz-I.  We have a bunch of great charity events coming up as well as some kick ass showcases and music video shoots among many other things.  Check out the home page for a listing of April's Events and we hope to see you at a bunch of them!

In May we kick off our Summer Concert Series at Gippers - that is going to be one hell of an event every month.  Stay tuned for details.

This Summer, Mindz-I is taking over CT, showcasing our original artists, bringing in headlining acts (time waits for no woman) and setting up mini tours.  Don't take your eyes off this train my friends, cause you never know what our next stop is going to be.

Well, this girl needs to go get some work done...  Until tomorrow...MAKE NOISE!!!