ListenUp Myrtle Beach - Music News for the Myrtle Beach areaMusichttp://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013-05-02T01:43:47ZSquarespaceThe Drag "Innerchange" (Live)http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013/5/1/the-drag-innerchange-live.htmlListenUp Staff2013-05-02T01:33:05Z2013-05-02T01:33:05ZIt's been a few months since Myrtle Beach's biggest rock band, The Drag, came together for a great reunion show at Pirate's Cove in February.
But thanks to some great recently release footage from local videographer Jerry Stovall, folks who missed the show, or just wanted another great blast from the past can see an awesome version of the band's hit "Innerchange" performed that night.
If you like what you hear, pop on over to Turnip Farm Records and grab yourself a copy of the vinyl 7" with "Innerchange" on Side A and "Six Cent Boy" on side B or find out more about the locally-grown label in our interview with owner Chris Smith.
]]>Treehouse! set to release second album "Growth"http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013/4/30/treehouse-set-to-release-second-album-growth.htmlListenUp Staff2013-05-01T01:30:28Z2013-05-01T01:30:28ZOne of Myrtle Beach's hardest working bands, Treehouse! has been branching out all over and now the boys are back on the beach and set to release their second full-length album.
The group's self-titled debut album was released in 2010 with a number of standout tracks like party jam "F.U.N." and spiritual song "The Almighty," to name a few.
The album, recorded at Ocean 10 Studios, featured contributions from the likes of Josh Gregory and BJ Craven of Ten Toes Up and saxaphonist Rob Flack.
This time around the band turned to its fans for help, raising money on IndieGogo to fund "Growth" which was recorded this spring.
Like the title suggests, the second album marks a more mature sound for the band, who has spent the better part of the past two years touring all over the East Coast and as far away as the Virgin Islands.
The group's first single "Blessings" is an uplifting and typically laid-back effort for the group, who plans to also release "Darlin'" and "Young One" as singles, with the album set to be available on iTunes in coming weeks.
The free show will take place outdoors on The Deck from 6 p.m. to midnight with performances by The Dubber, Sun-Dried Vibes and ALLAREONE. There will also be art and displays from Designers Generation, Jeff Schnaus, Knotti Roots, DomeCandy and Earth Travel Apparel.
Following the show the group will continue its album release tour with 18 dates in May throught the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama and Tennessee.
For more information on the band or to hear more of their music, check out treehousetheband.com.
]]>Local's Listens: Myrtle Beach Music Mixtape March 2013http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013/3/15/locals-listens-myrtle-beach-music-mixtape-march-2013.htmlListenUp Staff2013-03-15T15:50:35Z2013-03-15T15:50:35ZThe Ides of March are upon us, and with that fateful day of Julius Caesar’s death generally comes a warning to “BEWARE!” the bad luck which could be waiting around any corner.
But never ones to follow tradition or worry about superstition we figured today was as good a day as any for folks to be AWARE of all the great new music available for your listening pleasure.
This month’s mixtape features a variety of artists, ranging from seasoned Blues musicians and longtime local players to up-and-coming songwriters and cutting edge Electronic DJs looking to ride the latest trends.
As always, we thank you for helping foster the amazing talent the beach has to offer. Please take the time to support the artists below by attending shows as well as buying, downloading and sharing their music on online.
FOLK
1. Josh Haskins “J Walkin’”
Since moving to the beach this fall, singer-songwriter Josh Haskins has done his best to make the rounds around town performing at as many open mics, open jams and booking as many shows as possible.
Now based in Pawleys Island, the 22-year-old Virginia native has recently released his first full-length album “J Walkkin’” which features a dozen tracks showcasing a unique brand of acoustic music he labels as “folk/punk.”
Having worked on the material for more than four years, the album is an excellent exercise in taking early folk influences such as Woody Guthrie, Bob Dylan and Neil Young and shaping them with a bit of southern flair and DIY punk attitude.
Accenting Haskins nasally vocals and proficient picking, a heaping helping of harmonica helps fill out the album’s sound.
“Throughout my years of playing, I always found myself gravitating back to my harmonica. It simply adds depth and a voice to what I've been feeling inside,” he writes.
Many of Haskins songs show an intelligent perspective beyond his years, tackling existential issues such as heartbreak, depression and social complacency with lyrics filled with hope, happiness and a rebellious spirit.
"I tried to bring everything to this album", writes Haskins. "Along with the sounds of the past, you'll certainly hear the influence of Old Crow Medicine Show and another Richmonder, Tim Barry."
Catch Haskins live March 22 at Old Bull & Bush Pub w/ Gravy Crockett or performing at House of Blues during the Myrtle Beach Zombie Walk on April 28.
Download “J Walkin’” at iTunes or listen to the album on Spotify.
POP/ALT-ROCK
2. Wicked Gift “More or Less”
More than a decade after its initial iteration, the look of this twisted pop/rock group has changed many times, but that hasn’t stopped local songmaster Phil Fox from continuing to dream up new and interesting ideas.
Whether it’s producing musical dramas and murder mystery spoofs or providing the soundtrack to a sci-fi burlesque show Fox has created a variety of ways for Wicked Gift to stay involved in the scene over the years.
With its most recent release “More Or Less” the group draws inspirations from these various projects to wax poetic about the trials and tribulations of the theatre crowd.
“Those folks have an even tougher climb than we musicians, and this song is dedicated with affection to their struggles and perseverance,” writes Fox.
The song is one of five new songs recently recorded with Wicked Gift’s current lineup featuring Drew Jacobs (Drew Jacobs & The Sauce), Charles Grace (Sleeping Policeman) and Reuben Long (Julio & The Saltines).
“We're five songs into the total 12 for the new [still untitled] CD and hope to finish up work at Brian McKenzie's Music Factory by mid-summer,” says Fox. “Pretty jazzed about it at this point!”
Download “More or Less” for free and sear some of the other new tracks from Wicked Gift via Reverbnation.
INDIE POP
3. The Arctic Flow "Dreams You’ll Never Find"
Started in 2008, The Arctic Flow is a “tweegaze” project dreamed up by longtime local musician Brian Hancheck (Seven 37, Haskell 3, Sault).
“I started The Arctic Flow because I had just purchased an 8-track recorder and wanted to put out the songs I was working on,” he writes. “Originally I was just coming up with ambient drones and instrumental, but I eventually started writing noisy pop songs.”
Hancheck put out his initial EP “I Saw The Silver Sun” on Myspace in 2009 and it was later discovered by Jacob Graham (The Drums) who released as a free download on his online label Holiday Records.
Since that time the project has produced a number of singles and EPs released all over the world on such labels as Beko (France), Bubbletone Discos (Spain), Little Treasure (Spain) and Dufflecoat Records (U.K.) and a full-length album called “All The Way Until December.”
Despite modest success with his releases, which have received mostly positive feedback and garnered him invitations to events NYC Popfest and SxSW, Hancheck remains focused on making and releasing good music rather than performing live — which he hasn’t done in almost a decade.
“It's easier for me to do this alone than have to rely on other people. I'm such a homebody that I don't really play out anymore,” he writes.
Check out The Arctic Flow’s full catalog for streaming and purchase via Bandcamp.
BLUES
4. Tim Allen’s Bluestime “God Awful Mess”
If you’ve been reading ListenUp for any length of time, you’ve likely heard us talk about Tim Allen’s Bluestime before.
This rockin’ blues-based group is led by Tim Allen, a Texas native and a longtime performer who has shared the stage with a number of great musicians of the years including nationally-acclaimed artists Rusty Weir and Texas legend Bill Neeley.
“God Awful Mess,” is Allen’s latest release, a ramblin’ mid-tempo number about lost love and the regrets that come with knowing you could’ve done things differently.
The track its one of a number of tracks the group has put out of its upcoming album “Texas In Me.” The album, which was partially mixed and produced by Mark Tester from the legendary Lone Star Sudios in Austin, Texas, also features guest appearances including Pat MacDonald of Grammy-nominated group Timbuk3 as well as a handful of local players.
Though they’ve been working at recording and retooling the album for more than a year, Allen has hinted that a final release may be coming soon.
“So a lot of [people] have been asking me when the new album is set to drop,” Allen wrote recently via Facebook. “Well, we're behind schedule a few months mostly because of me. I keep looking for that one more tune to write and record. I'm starting to think that maybe 11 tunes is enough and we'll go ahead and give it to you.”
Check out many of the tunes from the album, as well as other compositions from the band via Soundcloud.
ROCK
5. Ten Toes Up “Paper House”
This time last year one of the area’s most accomplished rock bands, Ten Toes Up, took to Kickstarter with a silly video and a single goal: raising money to fund its fourth full-length album.
After an impressive show of fan support to the tune of $20,000 and another year’s worth of nonstop gigging — not to mention numerous trips to Nashville to record — the album is now complete and set to be released next month.
Gearing up for said release the group has recently unveiled of a brand-new website and is offering fans a preview of the album’s title track “Paper House” online.
While staying true to group’s trademark percussive sound, the track’s soulful vocals and soaring chorus give it more of contemporary pop/rock vibe than the Bluesy, guitar-driven feel of 2010’s “Sleeping Lion.”
Though details and lineup are still being finalized the group will host “Toe-Fest” a family-friendly, festival style CD Release Party on April 7 at Pawleys Island Tavern.
Stay tuned for details and keep up with the band online at TenToesUp.com
HARD ROCK
6. Driven Under “Taking Me Back”
Though its sound may be plenty heavy for most folks, Driven Under actually showcases the softer side of a pair of local players known mostly as metalheads.
Featuring former Creepshow Mofo drummer Seth Greeson and Brink of Sanity guitarist Wes Deloach, the group has been playing together since last fall, but is still in search of a full-time rhythm guitarist and bassist to round out its lineup.
Despite the lack of members Driven Under produces a fully rockin’ sound on its first demo which features Deloach pulling quadruple duty on vocals, lead and rhythm guitar and bass.
Recorded at Lotus Recordings in Mt. Pleasant and engineered by Sean Coates of Charleston-based Metal group In For The Kill, “Taking Me Back” is a solid debut track in the vein of groups like Shinedown and Seether — a band which Greeson calls “one of our biggest influences.”
“We wanted to take a break from the heavy music,” writes Greeson. “We know how hard it is to sell ourselves, as well as to play around here in a metal band and wanted to take a more mellow, mainstream approach.”
The duo has also released another track “All I’ve Known” and hopes to release an EP in the near future. They plan to perform their first live show in July, being booked as part of a Dog Days of Summer event at The Jitterbug in Mullins featuring Conception of Being, Thirst For Clarity and a number of other acts.
Check out both the band’s releases and a cover of Seether’s “Breakdown” on Reverbnation.
REGGAE/ROCK
7. The Revealed “One Question”
Started by a group of four U.S. Army soldiers who met during their time in Kuwait last summer, The Revealed’s formation seems almost like fate.
“They were just sitting around playing together one day and we got to talking and I found out there were from Myrtle Beach too and I couldn’t believe it,” said guitarist/vocalist Ryan Swartling. “It all just kind of came together from there.”
After performing its first gigs together at USO events overseas, the group returned to the states in December and got right to work on making music.
In January, the group headed west and hit the studio, recording tracks for its debut EP at The Den Recorders studio in Pasadena, Calif.
“It was a really great experience. We were lucky to get to go out there and we’re really excited about how everything came out,” said Swartling.
“Rise,” a three-track effort featuring a blend of Reggae Rock, Ska and Indie Rock vibes will drop later this month and the band has given folks a sneak peak with the release of “One Question.”
Keep up with the band’s progress via Facebook or see a preview video for “Rise” on Youtube.
HIP-HOP
8. Yung Vital “In A Song”
West Virginia native Chris “Yung Vital” Rickman has been rapping and singing since he was 5 years old. In addition to making music, the North Myrtle Beach High School graduate works full-time and is also involved promotion and events in the local club scene.
His latest release “In A Song” is an emotional, yet uplifting track fueled by the rapper’s love for his young daughter Joslynn.
“As of september of last year me and her mother have been in a nasty custody battle,” writes Rickman. “[The song] was written during this time period and it showcases the pain, triumph, and strength I had and have facing the unbearable situation of not having my daughter.”
Though the conflict has been hard for all involved, Rickman says it has only helped to fuel his creativity as an artist.
“My music has and will always be written from personal experience in the hope that it helps others who face similar problems and if I can help even just one person through my music it would be an honor,” he says.
The soon-to-be 23 year old says he hopes to shoot and release a video for the track soon.
Download the track and hear more from Yung Vital on Soundcloud.
RAP
9. Zac Keelo “I’m Fucked Up”
It’s been a good few weeks for local rapper Zac Keelo.
In addition to opening for Grammy-winning artist Juicy J at House of Blues on March 10, the Virginia native also recently released a brand-new video for his song “I’m Fucked Up.”
Shot at Oceans 10 Studios in Myrtle Beach and edited by Connor Milligan of C.A.M. Productions, the video features Keelo flaunting his “unique, yet sophisticated look” — complete with trademark nerdy glasses and tie — and living it up with a few lovely young ladies.
“The song is really all about the ‘party life’ of a rich kid. We’re depicting situations which commonly occur in my life such as recreational drug use, beautiful women and an overall wealthy lifestyle, ” writes Keelo, underscoring his self-described “douche bag persona.”
Featuring solid production from Superstar O, this bangin’ track is filled with enough drug references to catch a contact high and enough energy to keep the party going all night long.
Hear the track and others from Keelo’s mixtape “The Keelo Gram Part 1” on Soundcloud.
TRAP
10. VUDI☢ VMM☢ “Makin’ Money”
Combining the Hip-hop and Electronic genres with heavy bass, raspy snares and crunk beats, Trap music has become one of the hottest styles in the ever-expanding EDM scene. With this trend, a number of local DJs have been dabbling in the genre, producing a number of interesting efforts.
One group that’s having success putting their spin on Trap is VUDI☢ VMM☢ (pronounced like “Audio Ammo”).
A collaboration between Myrtle Beach-based producer Brent “Strait Dropp” Thurman and Blacksburg, Va.-based Chris “DJ Pyrite” Reese, the duo has only been making music together for about five months but has already built some buzz with their efforts.
“Makin’ Money” has been getting love online from a variety of DJs including N.C.-based artist ONIIX of Kathaus Records.
“We’re stacking up DJ bookings on a big scale,” writes Thurman. “We have dates with Steez Promo — The premier U.S. EDM promoters — and BADASS Raves coming up and we’re repping Myrtle Beach Hard.”
In addition to VMM☢’s upcoming dates in D.C., Baltimore and Richmond this spring, you can catch a taste of what the group is all about as Thurman will perform with fellow local, Driven AM recording artist Mixmaster Doc at Turn-Up @ The Tavrne in Myrtle Beach on March 29.
Check out more of VMM☢’s music on Soundcloud or get details on the event here.
]]>Local's Listens: Myrtle Beach Music Mixtape February 2013http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013/2/14/locals-listens-myrtle-beach-music-mixtape-february-2013.htmlListenUp Staff2013-02-14T20:52:02Z2013-02-14T20:52:02ZThough the offseason is undoubtedly a slow time for music on the beach, it’s also traditionally a time when the talented folks who spend six nights a week in the summer entertaining tourists get to retreat to home studios to record and show up at open mics to bang out new material.
As the scene begins to shake out of its winter hibernation and jump full force into 2013, a number of new releases have been popping up.
This month’s Locals Listens features plenty worth listening to including tunes in a variety of genres from Hip-Hop to Country and Blues to Dubstep.
Thanks for listening and continuing to spread the word that "Myrtle Beach Music is not dead!" Don't forget to take the time to support the artists featured here by attending their shows and buying, downloading and sharing their music on online.
HIP-HOP
1. The Fam “Airstream Cypher”
The trio of JC Penny, Justin Atwood and Jordan “Jordy Vader” Forcier have done their best to make a name for themselves over the past few years with a stream of releases and mixtapes that show plenty of potential but at times lack the polish of more established artists.
But even though their latest release “Airstream Cypher” may be just that — a cypher — it’s a very impressive leap forward that shows the group is really starting to come into its own as a cohesive unit.
Behind a solid beat from Nick “Khaki” Sedota of Right Eye Labs and a video produced by Allied Arts, the boys go hard on each verse showing both the gained wisdom of a few more years under their belts without losing the reckless abandon and youthful exuberance that makes them fun to listen to.
Released in January “I Jam Therefore I Am” is a collection of modern Blues from Greg Bowman.
As a singer-songwriter who specializes in “progressive Blues with lots of Blue-eyed soul” Bowman has performed solo locally for a number of years and formerly played with the Smokehouse Brown Band as well as having toured with a number of great musicians over the years.
Recorded at his own Extra Mile Studios in Murrells Inlet, Bowman’s third solo release is complete with brand-new tracks as well as reworked versions of songs from his 2006 album “A Little Sexy’s Alright.”
Amongst the offerings “Empty” stands out as the bluest of Blues with a lovelorn chorus of “Sometimes I get so empty I can’t even sing the Blues,” while “Kindred Spirit” brings home a much more groovy, progressive take on the genre.
The album also features contributions from a number of noted locals including Terry Harper, Grady Avery, Mark Chesanow, Mark Grillo, Tony Torrie, Kevin White and Javier Vegas Jr.
Download the free track “Easy on the Eyes” here or follow Bowman on Facebook.
COUNTRY
3. Jeffrey Allen Edwards “Popcorn”
The latest from Myrtle Beach’s own “Son of the South” Jeffrey Allen Edwards is a ramblin’ little tune about infamous Appalachian moonshiner Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton.
Sutton, who passed away in 2009 at age 62, began bootlegging in the 1970s in Maggie Valley, N.C. Later, through his self-published autobiography and video guide to moonshing, Sutton became known to many on the hit Dicovery Channel TV series “Moonshiners” which profiled his work using clips from his original videos.
Written and performed by Edwards and his bandmate Michael Lynch the song “Popcorn” will be featured in an upcoming documentary film.
Listen to the song on SongClick or watch the video, featuring clips from 2008 documentary “The Last One” on YouTube.
METAL
4. Brink of Sanity
“Contaminate of Reason”
After coming together throughout 2010-11 and coming into their own as a group in 2012, the deathcore quartet of Aaron Gruber (Drums/Backup Vocals), Ryan Shaver (guitars), Steve Duvall (Lead Vocals) and Wes Deloach (guitars) have shown they’re serious about expanding their fanbase in 2013 with the release of their first EP.
“Contaminate of Reason” is a four-track effort of in-your-face metal that rarely stops to slow down before hitting you with a steady combination of double bass pedal drumming, screaming and growling vocals and brutal guitar riffs.
When the intensity does step back, such as in the middle of the album’s title track or at the beginning of “Why Does Glass Taste Like Blood?” it only works to amplify the hard-hitting chaos that follows.
Having featured the lead track “With Clarity Comes Psychotic Jealousy” back in 2011, we’d say it still holds up as the best of the bunch, but there’s plenty here for Metal fans to enjoy.
Gearing up for another run in the regional Hard Rock Calling contest, the quartet of McKinley Devilbiss, Andrew McDermott, Sam Goodwin and Wade McMillian recently released its latest offering off its upcoming album “Different Perspective.”
The track, an upbeat number about getting older and moving away from home, was released to coincide with the band’s entry in this year’s competition. Accompanying it is a cool little “road trip”-themed video put together by friend of the band Adam Craig, showing footage of the band’s travels across the east coast and Midwest.
While a release date for an album, which the group says will feature a broader style of Reggae Rock, has yet to be announced Devilbiss says its still in the works.
“It will still come out no matter what happens,” he writes. “The new songs are really cool and we’re paying so much attention to the minor details that really make stuff click. This album almost makes me embarrassed of our demo.”
It may be mid-winter, but Nick Gudzan’s doing his part to put listeners in a summer state of mind, with his first release.
“Basically it spurs from the feeling of happiness you get when the summer season is around,” he writes.
At just 18 years old, this young singer-songwriter has already been making music for about six years, playing with a variety of bands. A staple at Fresh Brewed Coffee House’s open mic nights, Gudzan performs regularly with friends Austin Poisson and Josh Panos, though he considers himself a solo artist.
With nothing more than a guitar, a microphone and a copy of Logic, Gudzan provides good vibes aplenty channeling a variety of influences including Matisyahu, Trevor Hall and The Dirty Heads among others.
According to Gudzan, he plans to finalize five more songs in the near future with his sights set on releasing his first EP in March.
Though local artist Chris Hazleton (aka R3X0R) is only a year and a half into pursuit as an EDM producer, his background in music and percussion is evident on the hard-hitting Dubstep release “Life In Vegas.”
Before catching the Electro bug, Hazleton cut his teeth playing various concert instruments including piano, marimba and drums at part of Dr. Tim Peterman’s Carolina Forest Steel and Taiko ensembles.
“If it weren't for him, I wouldn't have taken up any instrument at all,” writes Hazleton.
The track itself is inspired by the hustling, bustling vibe of Sin City or any big metro where folks are always in a rush to get somewhere.
After more than a year of impressing crowds across the Grand Strand with its high-energy live shows, Pawleys Island-based group Paperwork finally spent some time in the studio recently, recording tracks for it’s upcoming debut album at Allied Arts studio in Georgetown.
“Celebrate,” the first of these songs to be released, is funky, upbeat number with a danceable chorus that’s sure to have fans corresponding with it’s cries of “down, down, down, down...”
The track has already helped the group earn a spot in the top nine of this year’s Hard Rock Calling Battle of The Bands, where they will perform in preliminary competition on Feb. 28.
You can also see the band live at Rockin’ Hard Saloon with Dear Blanca and Drew Jacobs & The Sauce on Feb. 23. Click here for details.
INDIE
9. Sapphire “Book of Reasons”
Combining the pieces of bands both past (The Envelopes, The Typewriters, Imperial Eclipse) and present (Drew Jacobs & The Sauce, Josh Brannon Band) comes this Indie Rock project consisting of multi-instrumentalists A.J. Rownd, Greg Griste, Chip Harrelson and Chad Shepherd.
Though each are longtime locals, they started playing together as Sapphire last fall and recently performed the band’s first live show, opening for The Drag at Pirate’s Cove earlier this month.
The group’s shoegazing, britpop-like style draws from influences such as Swervedriver and Spirtualized, while also paying homage to the pop sensibilities of The Beatles and Beach Boys and wrapping it all up in a nice, hazy Indie Rock package.
The group currently has three tracks including “Book of Reasons” available online and as part of a limited print EP “Sweet Treats” available at live shows. The group also plans to release a full-length album this fall.
Sapphire’s next show will be March 18 at Rockin’ Hard Saloon with Paperwork and King of Prussia. Hear more of the band’s music at Reverbnation.
ELECTRONIC
10. Electric Bird Noise “Desert Jelly”
What started as a “cinematic loop project” spawned from a open jam session in 1997 has grown into a fully-fledged form of artistic expression for local musician/producer Brian McKenzie over the past decade plus.
Over the years, EBN’s music has been featured as the backdrop to various TV shows and movies — and even an imaginary film called “Icarus City” — while also producing a string of releases on Silber Records and the now-defunct No More Stars Records.
But despite EBN’s music being highly-regarded in electronic and experimental circles, albums such as 2007’s “Fragile Hearts … Fragile Minds” and 2011’s “The Silber Sessions” each featured quite a few “out there” moments may have been lost on the average fan.
While one could surely respect the beauty in atmosphere being created, some of the more experimental guitar droning or Noise-influenced elements always seemed like a brilliant symphony of sound that, while you know it’s good, you can’t quite seem to understand.
McKenzie’s latest release “Desert Jelly” feels more accessible to the casual fan without losing any of spaciness or complexity. Its 11 tracks span a variety of styles from ambient Electronic to hard-driving guitar Rock, with compositions that feel more like fully-formed concepts than just pure experimentations in sound.
]]>Local's Listens: Myrtle Beach Music Mixtape January 2013http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2013/1/2/locals-listens-myrtle-beach-music-mixtape-january-2013.htmlListenUp Staff2013-01-02T19:24:09Z2013-01-02T19:24:09ZAfter a whirlwind month full of holiday music, end of the world parties and new year’s bashes, we’re back with the latest Local’s Listens Monthly Mixtape full of new tunes for the new year.
This month’s musical offerings feature a slew of new and recent album releases from groups old and new — and even some Old News.
Take a moment to listen to what’s below and if you like what you hear, please remember to support the artists by attending shows and buying and sharing their music on social media. Together we can continue to spread the word that Myrtle Beach music is not dead!
Enjoy....
1. Charlie Floyd “That’s The Way I Am” (Country)
For the first time since 2010’s “Sounds of Home” the beach’s favorite country son is back in action with a brand-new album “That’s The Way I Am” released Dec. 11 on L.A.-based record label Cloverdale Music.
Floyd comes out fighting on this five-song EP with a rousing title track that shows he hasn’t lost any of his spunk since the glory days of “Charlie’s Nightlife” 20 years ago. (If there’s any doubts just call him “dude” and see what happens...)
The album also features another rowdy romp called “Racers and Rednecks” co-written by Terry Foyt, daughter of racing legend A.J. Foyt, as well as an updated version the heartfelt hometown ballad “Carolina Rain.”
Three years after releasing “The Grand Unification” local hip-hoppers Ascended Essence is back with a mixtape that aims to provide an introspective commentary on society from each rapper’s perspective.
Featuring emcees Epademc, Arc-Diz, Mt. Sinai and Morpheous and producers Brent T and Recruit, the group brings a dense, spacey lyrical style to life on “Dark Flow Theory” and overall it listens through much more like a cohesive album than the cobbled-together mashup of bedroom recordings many artists call mixtapes.
Standout tracks include the grungy, electro “Flare Helix,” hustle anthem “All In It,” the groovy, laid-back “Been 2 Long” and “Pipe Dreams” a piano laced statement on fighting for your dreams.
Featuring most of the members of popular local act Hey Dude!, the current lineup of Old News carries much of the same angst with a more refined sound that has definitely matured since the group’s early days.
On “Ghost Stories” the group brings a collection of seven songs that showcase both the harder and softer sides of its Easycore style, with at least a few spots where the two aspects come together perfectly such as lead single “Bedroom Eyes.” Also check out “Hate Song” and “B-Side to a Manson Tape”.
One of the few true R&B crooners in our area, Steven “Rashad Starr” Alderman, recently released his latest mixtape on 12.12.12.
The collection of songs features contributions from some of the top names in local/regional hip-hop including Lil’ Z, Sunni G, Chillz, Jokell and Franchise. Take a listen and check out tracks such as “Can’t Deny,” “Still Need Her” and the title track.
This laid-back instrumental is the latest release from Easy Rain, a project recorded by Geoff Klein a self-described “chill guy” and recent Pennsylvania transplant who dabbles in all sorts of laid-back music and soundscapes.
In addition to his solo material, Klein is also the drummer of Pittsburgh-based rock group, The Fields.
Coming fresh off of recent performances at Myrtle Beach Culture Collective and Transcend Art Show in December, noted DnB producer Dan “Mixmaster Doc” Brady drops his latest mix of “frosty” seasonal tunes.
You may have seen him performing solo acoustic or playing country covers with The Austin Mowery Band, but if you haven’t heard Jimmy Mowery’s solo, original material, it’s definitely worth a listen.
The 24-year-old Altoona, Pa., native cut his teeth touring and playing in bands Like A Movie and Wake The Coast, but relocated to the beach more than a year ago and released his first solo EP in October.
The self-titled album is a three-track sampling of Mowery’s 90s-influenced sound that’s sure to please fans of radio-ready rock.
]]>Local Listens: November 2012http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2012/11/30/local-listens-november-2012.htmlListenUp Staff2012-11-30T16:40:00Z2012-11-30T16:40:00ZWe founded ListenUp with the idea of letting people know where to find live music and to expose all the great musical talent our area has to offer.
While we’ve never wavered from this goal, becoming a full-fledged weekend guide recently has brought about more coverage of upcoming events, restaurants, nightlife and other local entertainment — and naturally a little less music than we would like to cover.
So in an effort to continue to show music scene the love it deserves, we're getting back to our roots by with a new monthly feature called Local Listens, that will highlight some of new and recent releases from local musicians in a variety of genres.
We hope you take the time to check out and support at least a few of the artists below, because remember “Without local bands there would be no national bands.” Here's a look at some songs, albums and mixtapes we think you ought to check out:
1. One Bad Apple “Faces” (Americana/Pop)
First single from new four-piece band featuring Ian Carter and Zach Williams of The Beatholes. Group is recording original material at Atlantic Coast Recording Studio in Myrtle Beach and you can catch them doing covers on the weekends at Froggy Bottomz in Celebrity Square. Listen to single on Spotify 2. The Drag "Innerchange" (Rock/Indie)
Check out new material from these legendary locals as Turnip Farm Records has released a 7” vinyl record of two unreleased songs from the group. Listen on Bandcamp
3. AJ Case “Gone” (Acoustic Hip-Hop)
This is one of a trio of new songs put out by local jack-of-all-trades AJ Case leading up to the release of his third album “Dead at 32.” Free download on Reverbnation 4. Young Hood "Coming Soon" (Hip-Hop/Rap)
New mixtape from Burgess-bred MC Miles Davis serves as precursor to the release of his first full-length album which is scheduled to drop on Dec. 30. Check out the first single “Chick In The Bag” featuring Jay Sinatra. Free mixtape on Datpiff
5. Wonder Shakedown “Until We Meet Again...” (Pop punk)
Though its members are scattered with drummer Caleb LeBarre to film school in California and bassist Devin Primrose living in Texas with his family, this local pop punk quartet has pressed on with releasing new material.
The new album features just one track, “Roadmap Romance” in which all four members perform together, but yet vocalist/guitarist Tim Hardwick says the seven-song effort “is the absolute best material we’ve ever produced.” Free download on Bandcamp
6. Dreams of Burning “As Far As” (Metal)
Featuring members of Flick-It, Bitterseed and other local bands, Dreams of Burning is a brand-new progressive metal band out of Conway. Though they are only two shows old as a group, they’ve already got a sampling of three tracks you can hear online including “As Far As.” Listen on Soundcloud 7. Marsha Morgan Band feat. Gary Lowder "Private Number" (Beach)
One of two releases from powerhouse vocalist Marsha Morgan and her group of Beach buffs to be featured on the “Keep On Gettin’ It” compilation released for this year’s SOS Fall Migration.
This one, featuring Cammy-nominated singer Gary Lowder (Carolina Breakers, Legends of the Beach), has been shooting up the charts on 94.9 The Surf and getting noticed by Beach fans all over. Check out the compilation here or Listen to the song on YouTube 8. Smith Comma John "Hypnic Jerk" (Ambient/Electronic)
The latest original release from local producer/DJ William Burns is relaxing and atmospheric, yet full of synth and bursts of percussion. If that’s too laid back for you, perhaps check out another recent release “2Spooky” a series of Death Grips remixes he produced. Free download on Soundcloud 9. Chasing Charleston "Stupid Suicide" (Indie/Alternative)
This newly-formed trio of young Myrtle Beach musicians recently released its first demo, a two-song effort recorded live on cassette. Though the recording quality leaves plenty to be desired, there’s something unique about what’s there and it seems to fit the grungy, garage band aesthetic the band is shooting for. Check them out live Dec. 19 with Old News and Big Awesome at The Sound Hole. Free download on Bandcamp 10. Salt "Restore Refresh Renew" (Acoustic/Singer-Songwriter)
The latest single from local singer-songwriter Kevin Mason, “Restore Refresh Renew” is a solid acoustic number with some introspective lyrics such as “Problems man everybody's got em, but without the dark, who would ever see the light at all...” that highlight the ups and downs of life. Listen on Soundcloud 11. PDaddyFatSax "Slut" (Rock/Soul)
Written and recorded by Turnip Farm Records’ Patrick “Paterack” Richardson, you’d never guess this sultry, soulful little two-minute ballad had been recorded on an iPhone. Listen on Bandcamp
Please do your part to support local music...remember without local bands there would be no national bands!
MYRTLE BEACH MUSIC IS NOT DEAD!
]]>Featured Listens - March 8, 2012http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2012/3/8/featured-listens-march-8-2012.htmlListenUp Staff2012-03-08T18:55:04Z2012-03-08T18:55:04ZFeatured Listens is a periodic column highlighting the latest in local music and other songs that are available for your listening pleasure. Whether it's the local and regional artists or just some of our favorite tunes from across the Web, this column represents the best of what's play for us this week:
FEATURED LISTENS
1. SALT “Breathless”
This track comes to us from SALT, a band that formed mid-2011 and has since been holed up in the studio perfecting it’s smooth, multi-genre sound and working on its debut album.
The group consists of longtime friends Kevin Mason, Brett “Top Hat” Hatmaker, Alan Grundy Dave Unkefer and Justin Maitland (Wonder Shakedown). Mason (aka Kevin James) leads the group on vocals, but each member plays multiple instruments and contributes to the songwriting process.
The group has yet to begin performing out, but plans to release it’s album by late spring and hopes to ready for live performances by summer.
The song "Breathless," written by Mason and Hatmaker, is the title track from the band’s upcoming album and what they currently consider to be the band’s signature song.
“It will be a 12-13 song album of multi-genre music all capturing your attention with the very first note,” writes Mason. “From our Hard Driving, Fast Paced Contemporary Rock Songs to our Classic Style Modern Day Vintage tunes like Breathless we will keep your ears begging for more of the world’s most popular seasoning — SALT.”
Find out more about SALT and it’s music online at www.getsaltmusic.com or look for the band’s free app in the Droid Marketplace and iTunes store.
COMPILATION
2. SceneSC 2012 Sampler
Last week , our Columbia counterpart SceneSC put out its annual sampler, a 21-track compilation of some of the best music Indie Rock music from around the Palmetto State. We could try and reinvent the wheel on describing all the awesome sounds contained in this free download, but why not just let our friends over there tell you about it themselves:
“For the last three years the SceneSC Sampler has served as a way of showcasing just a fraction of the talent grown here in South Carolina. Featuring national touring acts likeShovels and Rope and All Get Out, to endearing local favorites like Those Lavender Whales and The Restoration, the compilation has a little bit of everything.
Over half of the artists included on this years compilation are making their first appearance on the sampler. These artists include Shovels and Rope, Those Lavender Whales, Kemp Ridley, Heyrocco, The Sea Wolf Mutiny, Ryan Bonner, The Explorers Club, Latenights, Octopus Jones, Babylips and The Lion in Winter. The amount of new artists is just one example of the ever expanding music scene in South Carolina.”
Honestly, we couldn’t speak more highly of most all the bands featured on this year’s compilation, but if you need another reason to download the album contains an exclusive new track from Myrtle Beach’s own Octopus Jones called “Dux” so definitely check that out.
Download the sampler for the low, low cost of “name your price” via Bandcamp or check out all the awesome music coverage at SceneSC.com.
DEMO
3. Dirt Life “FOBYD”
They say you can tell a lot about a band by the way the perceive themselves.
“Dirt Life is an unbelievably popular unsigned punk rock band from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,” reads this band’s profile description.
But lest you think that Chris Freeze, Nick Zara, Andy Collins and Joey Brzoska are unbelievably full of themselves. Perhaps a more apt description would be that Dirt Life is a fledgling pop punk group from Conway, SC, with a slightly-twisted sense of humor and a knack for sarcasm.
Following in the tradition of local punks such as Bazooka Joe and The Slobz who rock hard, party hard and don’t take themselves too seriously, this young foursome showed potential during its first outing at Cool Daddy’s Bar & Grill in December.
Building on that with a 3-song demo that displays all the trademark angst — and crappy, garage-band recording quality — you’d expect from a punk band on their first release “FOBYD” is an introduction to a no-frills sound that fans of the genre should surely check out.
To get the full experience, check out Dirt Life live Thursday night at The Sound Hole with Bamboo Forest, Treephort and Below The Bassline or find out more about Dirt Life on Facebook.
VIDEOS
4. Music Video Experiment
Produced by T.R.E.P. Entertainment’s Tykeem Corbitt and local photographer/cinematographer Phil Ranicer or Rancier Studios, the “Music Video Experiment” is a series of four videos released by local, independent artists.
The series, which features Garrett Suggs (Beatholes, American Parts), Whit (Zu Cru), Lil’ Z and The ProsTpects, is designed to showcase both the talent of these artists as part of Corbitt’s effort to promote talent with T.R.E.P., but also to display the cinematography capabilities of Rancier Studios, which is well know locally for it’s sports photography and portraiture work with local high schools.
The videos are top-notch, production wise and feature some local music that’s worth checking out including “Sad Songs” off of Suggs’ 2010 album “When Archers Come” and Lil’ Z’s feel-good single “Ruin My Buzz.”
Admittedly, it’s been too long since the last Featured Listens column, and inevitably when that happens there’s a ton of great new tracks I’ve had submitted and have found online recently which need to be heard. Here’s a few links to tracks worth checking out:
• ”Brian Lea McKenzie’s Music Factory.Compilation 1”: This isn’t new, but we just came back across this compilation from local producer Brian McKenzie again recently — after listening to it heavily in the early days before starting ListenUp — and think you ought to go download it now.
• Josh Sewell “Her”: Surf Skate Music Culture member Josh Sewell shows off his solo acoustic chops with a track called “Her” here.
• Tim Allen’s Bluestime “Whiskey Man”: The latest studio recording from the local Blues group’s upcoming album “Texas In Me” on Soundcloud.
• Trouble T “Clean”: Latest trackfrom Now or Never Ent. artist. Check out the Video on YouTube.
• Today The Moon, Tomorrow The Sun “We Were Wild Remix”: Awesome dance remix of our favorite track from the electro-rock group’s awesome “Wildfire” album from fellow Atlanta-based group Stokeswood. Download it free on Soundcloud.
]]>Featured Listens - Jan. 18, 2012http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2012/1/18/featured-listens-jan-18-2012.htmlListenUp Staff2012-01-18T14:05:42Z2012-01-18T14:05:42ZFeatured Listens is a periodic column highlighting the latest in local music and other songs that are available for your listening pleasure. Whether it's the local and regional artists or just some of our favorite tunes from across the Web, this column represents the best of what's play for us this week:
NEW RELEASE
1. Stella by Starlight "The Leak"
Since being turned onto Stella by Starlight by founding member Nathan Fowler (a Myrtle Beach native) last May, the high-energy electro pop produced by this band has become amongst my favorite "discoveries" since starting ListenUp.
With music influenced by classic acts like The Beatles and Elton John, built upon modern sounds such as MGMT and The Killers and steeped in a pot full of hot Top 40 dance pop tracks, Stella by Starlight has a uniquely infectous sound that I can't seem to get out of my head.
Released this week, "The Leak" continues the group's trajectory of increasingly danceable tunes, starting with the synth-infused title track. Songs such as "What Do You Plead," "Can I Take You Home" and "The Middle School Dance Song" all keep the hips moving with solid production and display various levels of Fowler's quirky, lyricism and monotone delivery.
Others such as "Better Living Through Chemistry," "American Chavalier" and "Life Lessons" take a more subdued approach, without losing any of the sex-and-drug-themed songwriting that makes Stella by Starlight a blast to listen to.
Overall, I'm not sure "The Leak" lives up to Stella's ambitiously-crafted 2009 debut "Room For Chelsea," but considering how much I've fallen in love with that album, I suppose few things would. It's still an undeniably fun and interesting record that should continue to build the buzz for the L.A.-dwelling Fowler.
Having made his name playing a blend of emotionally-charged, acoustic and piano driven indie rock all over the U.S. and the U.K. over the past decade-plus, Darling Waste frontman Lance Waste (ne' Williams) has landed in Myrtle Beach after calling Cleveland and Brooklyn home in the past.
Together with his primary musical partner Justin Lustig, Waste has helmed a rotating lineup of musicians which make up Darling Waste over the years, releasing five full lenght albums and a number of EPs and demos.
The latest, "Good And Bad Angels" was released in March 2011 on Indie Label Big Buzz Records in the U.K. and self-released through Reverbnation domestically. The album, which just released to iTunes and Spotify recently, is a 13-song display of emotional honesty that for the most past comes off without feeling overly moody or ominous.
The album features a variety of sounds ranging from downtempo piano ballads to more upbeat rock numbers tied together by Waste's raw, introspective songwriting.
Standout tracks include a pleading powerpop number "Please Lie To Me," the mandolin-tinged homesickness anthem "Angels (Brought You To Me)" and the piano-driven "Inhale/Exhale," on which Waste channels his inner Adam Duritz of Counting Crows with painfully longing vocals.
Go check it out on iTunes or Spotify and be on the lookout for Darling Waste live as they just embarked on a tour of the east coast which will include two local dates, at The Sound Hole on Jan. 30 with Squid The Whale and Exhaust The Fox and again on Feb. 10.
Since we covered the collective of local DJs known as Lowcountry Dubstep last spring, the group has continued to grow support for its monthly Bass-ic Euphoria events which are now being held at Borgata in Surfside Beach.
In addition, the group — which consists of Wallstreet, Fudda, Ikaris, Equilibrium and a rotating stable of other DJs and electronic enthusiasts — recently decided to launch its first podcast.
The 97-minute mix is a set of original tracks produced by local Jason "DJ Snugg" McDonald, thrown down by LCD member Timothy "Wallstreet" Wallace and associates Chris "XLuther" Williamson and Jeff "DJ Wicked" Page.
"This podcast is made for all types of DJs to be able to play what they want," writes Wallace. "Its not just Dubstep and DnB. We want all types of EDM and all kinds of experimental types."
Sponsored by local comic shop Corsair Comics, the release is the first of what LCD hopes will become a recurring series of shows/mixes that will continue to build a scene for electronic music locally.
"We are all ways looking for other people in the South Carolina area and other states who enjoy the larger range of EDM," Wallace says. "So if you dont feel like always playing dance music and some times get a little out there with it ... hit us up and I'm sure we can make room for you on one of our Podcasts."
We get a lot of folks sending us music each month, and while we can't always feature it all, I like use this spot from time to time to link to some of the folks who took time to come and share their hard work with us. Check out a few of these, which were all submitted through Facebook, and let us know what you think:
• John Owens Journal - Daylight: New tune from the local folk band consisting of Joshua Grant (Sideways Derby) and Jeremy Dunham (Potatoeheads, Bullfrog).
• Tempest - Rubber Mala: First Dubstep-style electro track from young local producer Storm Evans.
• Technician - Victory: Latest from mixtape master DJ E-Top's Now or Never Ent. Check out his blog and be on the lookout for new mixtapes soon.
• Salvdor - Judge Me: Conway-based rapper releases first track from an upcoming mixtape with production by Tellingbeatz.
• Jest*R - EVOLV Mix: Dubstep mix from local DJ Tyler Hinkleman featuring tracks from Benny Page, Excision, Deadmau5 and others as well as some original material.
YOUTUBE CLIP
5. Wahoo Creek Band "Creepin'"
Just wanted to give a quick shout out to one of our favorite local country/rock groups who posted this live performance video of an original track called "Creepin'" earlier this week. The guys will emerge from their winter hibernation this weekend for their first show in awhile, playing at Southside Raw Bar at 9 p.m. tonight (details).
]]>Featured Listens - Jan. 5, 2012http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2012/1/5/featured-listens-jan-5-2012.htmlListenUp Staff2012-01-05T16:43:50Z2012-01-05T16:43:50ZFeatured Listens is a periodic column highlighting the latest in local music and other songs that are available for your listening pleasure. Whether it's the local and regional artists or just some of our favorite tunes from across the Web, this column represents the best of what's play for us this week:
SONIC SIX-PACK
1. Fresh Brewed Talent
Anyone who's been around the scene long surely knows Fresh Brewed Coffee House for it's laid-back atmosphere, it's popular open mic night and it's standing as one of the premier spots for singer-songwriter types in this town.
However, it appears in the new year the coffee shop is focusing even more on promoting it's offerings of live music, artist exhibitions and classes on everything from pottery to doing your taxes.
Along with this push is an outstanding upcoming lineup of local and touring musicians that are definitely worth trading in your lager for a latte in order to check out. Here are songs we like from a few of them:
• Elison Jackson "Tragic Actress": This garage-folk band from Connecticut is named after a fisherman who drowned at sea in the 1960s. They perform w/ Prisms on Jan. 11. (Details)
• J Swan Dooley "Mystery": Fun little folk-pop number from Tenneesee based songwriter who will perform on Jan. 17 (Details)
This upbeat R&B number is among the initial crop of releases from Risa Lee. The 23-year-old songstress originally hails from Milford, Connecticut, but graduated from North Myrtle Beach High School in 2006 and attended Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, Fla., before settling back in at the beach.
This hard-working mom is currently working to follow her dreams as a musician, while also balancing family and raising a child, but still manages to pop up around the Grand Strand, performing alongside some of the area's top hip-hop acts at showcases, open mic and anywhere else they'll let her do her thing.
She's currently working on recording her first album "Dreaming Out Loud" which will feature "Fill Ya Shoes" another recently released track, a slow jam called "Don't Judge Me," and a host of other soulful songs.
The Voices Green & Purple is a unique idea started by A.J Herring of Florida-based group Velma & The Happy Campers. The project, a collection of EPS from various artists and bands, asks that musicians create an EP that follows these strict guidelines:
1. The EP must contain at least 3 songs/pieces
2. The total running time of the ep cannot exceed 3 minutes
It's what some might call an odd experiment, but based on the interesting variety of results it could also be considered as a challenge by musicians who are tasked with conveying a message of telling a story of some sort in a period of time more often allowed to a single song.
The project came to our attention as local producer/engineer/musician Brian McKenzie shared one of these EPs from his new project Feel No Other aptly titled "3-minute EP."
Area51 is a four-piece rock band from Myrtle Beach has been playing together for just under two years. The group started out performing at the first Myrtle Beach FAME Festival alongside well-known "Gospel of Rock 'N' Roll" spreader Sista Otis, and has also played Senor Frogs and Suck Bang Blow, opening for AC/DC tribute group Highway To Hell during bike week.
The group's current lineup of Nick Cheri (Guitar/Vocals), Liz Blackstone (Bass/Backing Vocals), Joe Milo (Drums) and Chris Slider (Keys/Effects) has been playing together for about three months.
"We have been building our web presence in preparation for our new live show featuring old Area51 originals as well as new material," writes Blackstone. "The band has incorporated an all senses experience where we use video, lighting, sound effects and insence style aromas to create a 3-D musical experience."
The band's upcoming show at The Sound Hole on January 20 has been cancelled, but they have assured friends and fans that they are working hard on recording, writing and booking shows around the area in the near future.
Check out their new single "Fiend" below or keep up with the band via Facebook.
YOUTUBE VIDEO
5. "Insect"
I'm not exactly sure what to say about this one, but it was strange enough that I had to share. Thanks Michael Wood for never ceasing to surprise. You rock man!
]]>Featured Listens - Dec. 21, 2011http://www.listenupmb.com/music/2011/12/21/featured-listens-dec-21-2011.htmlListenUp Staff2011-12-21T14:53:17Z2011-12-21T14:53:17ZFeatured Listens is a periodic column highlighting the latest in local music and other songs that are available for your listening pleasure. Whether it's the local and regional artists or just some of our favorite tunes from across the Web, this column represents the best of what's play for us this week:
FEATURED LISTEN
1. Confliction "By My Side"
It’s been seven years in the making, but the beach’s favorite hard rock band is back.
With a revamped lineup that features Rollin Carver (vocals), Tripp Gaddy (guitar), Greg Majewski (guitar), Erin-Anthony Buckley (drums) and Joe Meckley (bass), Confliction is set to once agains “play to the masses, empty bars and be a general cause for concern.”
But with a new album set to drop in a matter of weeks, it seems the only real cause for concern is whether there will be enough alcohol for the hard-partying Confliction fans who pack Revolutions nightclub for a Jan. 13 CD Release party.
Released last week, “By My Side” is the first single off “Parade the Serpent,” — an album title with a deeper meaning that represents "a show of force, and bravery, in an unwavering manner." It features Confliction’s patented brand of mild-to-wild pacing with Carver’s emotion-filled vocals turning to growls on a moments notice, backed by hard-driving guitars and basslines.
“As a lot of you know we have been in the studio with producer and engineer David Atwater and our live sound engineer Roddy McCarson. We have delivered! "Parade the Serpent" is finished and has a release date of 1/13/2012,” announced earlier this week.
The CD release show will feature Souls Harbor and Doctrine of Ethos opening. Admission is free for those 21 and older. Tickets for 18-20 are $10 and will include a free copy of the new CD.
Fresh for the holidays comes this new track from local producer/rapper/singer Will Misdom, who recently branched out from his work with The Technicolor Void to focus on releasing his first solo album.
Dropping a bit of his signature cockiness for a more sincere — but still swagged out — seasonal tune, Misdom muses on the joys of being at home and with family for Christmas. It’s far from your traditional holiday song, yet it’s undeniably upbeat and will surely hit home for Palmetto state folks.
Head over to Reverbnation and download “Carolina Christmas” for free, or go buy Misdom’s full length debut “One Is All It Takes” featuring guest appearances by TTV partner Tye Dye and local rapper JC Penny for $9.95 on iTunes.
ARTIST PROFILE
3. Sean Risher (aka Risher Beats)
Call me a sucker for soul samples, but I was sold on “Habits,” the latest single from Myrtle Beach hip hop group Exklusive Musik, before the lyrics even kicked in.
Thanks to recent addition of producer Sean Risher, the trio of Chandler “Chandler Ave.” Costner, Brendan “Benny C” Corkum and Byron “B Cool” Brown, has taken its sound to another level, just in time to get started on their third mixtape “Love Knows No Love” — scheduled for release on April 20, 2012.
Though it’s tough to pin down Risher’s style on a single track, a closer listen to his offerings at WarBeats.com reveals a penchant for vocal samples, thumping basslines and a laid-back jazzy feel to many of his instrumentals including “Habits,” a sax-tinged slow jam called “Juicy” and the slightly swanky “Zelda.”
Who knows what the future holds for the Socastee High School and Coastal Carolina graduate, but here’s to hoping he keeps on making beats wherever he goes.
Sprouting from the roots of former Myrtle Beach garage band Epic Gents comes the Christian Rock quartet known as Through The Valley.
Featuring Gents frontman Scott Johnson and guitarist Lucas McCarthy, the new group rounds out it lineup with a rhythm section featuring Leon Komoroski on bass and Murrells Inlet resident Scott Rahner on drums.
Though just getting off the ground as a group, Through The Valley has been working through a set of tracks they hope to have completed and recorded in January with their eyes on a CD Release show soon after.
Their pop-rock sound is similar to that of Epic Gents, but with the soaring melodies and inspirational lyrics of Christian Rock added in. Even in listening to the demo “Here We Go Again” it seems that the 19-year-old Johnson is growing with experience and that his new band is likely to produce a bit more cohesive sound than the previous effort.
Though we’ve taken it upon ourselves to monitor the pulse of the Myrtle Beach music scene, we do occasionally branch out from time to time, especially when it comes to the many great regional acts our area has to offer. Here’s some recent tracks submitted to us by out-of-town artists looking to bring their show to the beach:
• Tyler Boone “All Of This”: Latest single from Charleston-based singer songwriter who will perform at Fresh Brewed Coffee House on Feb. 11 with Jentry Rose & Finnegan Bell. Download via Souncloud.
• PlanetRAWK “RAWKzilla”: New mixtape from the Alanta-based alternative hip-hop band which is slated to perform at Cool Daddy’s in Feburary. Download it on Bandcamp.
• Spencer Sholes “Dragonfly Season”: Music from a veteran singer-songwriter from the Durham, N.C., area. Americana artist classifes his sound as funkified folk rock. Hear the song here or check him out on Reverbnation.
• N.FilTr8 “MooMBot”: Formerly residing on the South Strand and now calling Greenville, N.C., home, this is an experimental Moombahton/Trip-hop released by the electronic producer as a thanks to his Facebook fans. Download via Soundcloud.
• Huffton Brothers “Poor Boy”: Music video from the Wilmington-based folk rock group that performed over the weekend at Pirate’s Cove and now features MB player Carver Soles on keys. Check it out on YouTube.
• Dixie Deathwish “Hell’s ½ Acre”: This one wasn't actually a submission, but a suggestion from a local musician who said he’s planning to bring the Charlotte-based metal band to town in the near future. I was sold on the name alone, but the music is as brutal as would be expected and worth a listen. Check it out on Reverbnation.
It's been a few months since Myrtle Beach's biggest rock band, The Drag, came together for a great reunion show at Pirate's Cove in February.
