“Lights out! Lights out! Lights out! Turn the windows black!” The lyrics for Division St. rang out amongst the audience as Geoff Rickly put his all into evoking the emotion he felt about a certain street where he grew up. Rickly, a native of [...]]]> Thursday
10/20/2009
Event Rating: ★★★★☆
Venue: Revolution Live – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Presented by: Live Nation

“Lights out! Lights out! Lights out! Turn the windows black!” The lyrics for Division St. rang out amongst the audience as Geoff Rickly put his all into evoking the emotion he felt about a certain street where he grew up. Rickly, a native of New Jersey is the vocalist and main songwriter for the post-hardcore band, Thursday. Thursday made a pit-stop in Fort Lauderdale and, with much delight, it was a poignant and powerful show.

Well, if you’re unfamiliar with Thursday, they are a New Jersey based band that can be considered quite political. They have a lot of views and opinions on today’s society and use their music as a medium to express themselves in more ways than one and they do it effectively. For example, I learned during the show, “Signals over the Air,” is a song about women’s rights. Now, it’s very easy to brush off a band as just preaching, but Thursday melds their message so well with music that they make you want to listen.

First, Thursday is a band that has a thing for the theatrics. Luckily for them, it fits quite well with their music and allows for their lyrics to become that much more impressionable. The light tech at Revolution was on full alert for this show as the dark hues and mood lighting were set on overdrive. (Not sure if there is such a setting, but it just seems to fit.)

Secondly, Rickly’s on stage performance was highly energetic as he seemed throw all he had into his performance. Gratuitous head-banging and deep breaths permeated the show, especially after the melodic, “Counting 5-4-3-2-1” in which the show really picked up steam. Finally, the set-list was quite a solid selection of most of their hits and singles with a few older ones mixed in to appease some of the more hardcore fans. Besides, “Division St.,” their song, “Paris in Flames” was met with the most enthusiasm and for good reason; both songs are easily some of their best material. Between the vocals and instrument riffs, all went clean and clear in the sound department to allow for the guys to do what they do best, rock out.

Overall, Thursday maybe do a bit of advocating with their music, but they put on a solid show. If you don’t agree with their views, don’t let that stop you from seeing a good hardcore band that will leave a solid impression on you, even well after you’ve left the venue.

Reviewed by: Justin Roach

This man needs no introduction. Needs no publicity. Needs no career help. But then again themo is not just about the artists but it is also about its members, extending their culture.

The moment Marc Anthony hits the stage the majorly Hispanic crowd goes [...]]]> Mark Anthony
10/24/2009
Event Rating: ★★★★☆
Venue: American Airlines Arena – Miami, FL
Presented by: CMN Inc.

This man needs no introduction. Needs no publicity. Needs no career help. But then again themo is not just about the artists but it is also about its members, extending their culture.

The moment Marc Anthony hits the stage the majorly Hispanic crowd goes wild. As soon as the music startsthis big smile graces his face, he sings, and what an incredible voice, he dances around the stage and… oh well… might as well take off the shoes and socks and go bare foot. After all, it dances better that way.

His at home persona radiates into and back from the thousands of fans singing every word along with him as he holds out his microphone whilst signaling the orchestra to quiet down a little so the audience can sing to him. Mi Gente. “My people”, yes indeed. Every time those words uttered from his mouth was another occasion for fans to go wild.

Throughout the show there is this sensation that Mark is throwing a dance party at his house, and he won’t accept any one sitting down. He dances to every song. He is emotionally engaged and pushes his voice to the full potential. In return the crowd is eager to stand up at every song and sway their hips to the feel good romantic tempo of this impeccable experience.

That night at the American Airline Arena, home of the Miami Heat, Mark Anthony was interrupted by T-Ray and another player from the Miami Heat, who bestowed a custom Miami Heat jersey with the name Anthony on the back, which Mark seemed to be really happy about.

Near mid concert, somebody threw a rolled up Puerto Rican flag to him, which he proudly hooked to his microphone (Steven Tyler style) – both his parents being from Puerto Rico.

On the whole Marc is very nice and virtuous to his fans. A perfect example of this: During one of his song, a young lady in the crowd was holding up her cell phone -so person on the phone could hear the song. Marc noticing this signals the young woman to hand him the phone, she does, Mark then proceeds to sing to that person -ear to the phone- for just about the remainder of the song.

Of course, the show couldn’t have been complete without the apparition of his dear wife Jennifer Lopez. The end of the night (second to last song to be precise) Jennifer walks out to the cheers of the attendance, and performs singing and dancing along his side Mark. The song concludes in big hug and kiss. Ah!… So cute.

There is no doubt Mark loves what he does, and if you are looking to expand your horizons, Mark Anthony live, is a good place to start as it seems impossible to be disappointed. So it was obvious, as hundreds of people kept singing on the way to their cars.

Like all shows you can buy ticket via any ticketmaster link on this website. You can also look for any of these artists albums or any music related items on our themo store.

Jean Leloup, aka “John The Wolf” (aka, aka Jean Leclerc), has a unique style to say the least. Having strong blues, some folk (both North American to Classic French Folk), rock, at times funk, and even some reggae. Then mixing these styles to bilingual lyrics [...]]]> Jean Leloup
Origin: Quebec, Canada (Currently)
Album: Mille Excuses Milady
Release: 28 April 2009

Jean Leloup, aka “John The Wolf” (aka, aka Jean Leclerc), has a unique style to say the least. Having strong blues, some folk (both North American to Classic French Folk), rock, at times funk, and even some reggae. Then mixing these styles to bilingual lyrics (predominately French, and English).

Jean has always been an extraordinary lyricist and storyteller. His words, being his strongpoint, graze the fields from the ironic truth to the divulgence of stupidities, and from injustices to the ‘all about fun’ coupled with some personal anecdotes of life, that most everyone can relate to.

Amidst his talents is his ability as a guitarist. This versatility along with his concept of musical arts, the “don’t take yourself too seriously and let’s all have a good time” attitude enables him to write songs that will go from Hendrix to The Cure, finishing with chants and funky jams.

In this album you will find styles that touch on the Cure (song #1, #5 and #16). Having at times a beat you can dance to (song 1) which sounds like a mix between “the forest” and “love song”. With one guitar strummed on tempo while the other(s) providing mini light solos throughout the song. #16 will take that Cure sound and mix it with smooth classic rock style (acoustic guitar topped with an electric flanged & wah-wahed guitar topped with smooth jazz moments.

You will have your funk style songs like song #2, also Cure-ish in a way, and song #3 that borders hip hop. #13 will take you to that Jamiroquai vs. Sugar Ray then throw in that hip-hop feel again. Then the song ends in a funny twist that if it had to be compared to anything it would have to be: what it would sound like to make fun of the artist Garou.

Showing again that guitar talent you have your blues and rock style songs like #7 which is a straight up classic blues song. #17 also has the classic blues guitar riff with full drum beats backing his spoken word style, ending with Jean letting his guitar do the rest of the talking. #10 is a rhythmic, bluesy, light rock, smooth song, with a musical resemblance to something you would hear from Incubus. #11, resembles a bit to its predecessor, however this one is joined with a reggae vibe. #14, which was previously released online as an acoustic song, is rerecorded to a modern French rock style, somewhat like an Indochine song. Again showing that he needs nothing but an acoustic guitar his #15 has that Jack Johnson fun song style.

Jean’s versatility keeps shining through with songs like #4 which has that traditional French folk sound complimented by a mariachi guitar playing technique. His folk continues in #8 resembling that of Cat Stevens: a huge acoustic guitar and a touch of a woman’s voice in the chorus to add to the feel of the song. #9 is also a classic French folk jingle, like you would hear in a modern more Beatles-ish version of Brel vs. Dutronc.

But Jean still likes to chill and #6 and #12 are pretty chill with light guitar riffs a nice bass line in the background. That ambient music you get from a Quentin Tarantino movie.

Although there are many comparisons and references possible, “John The Wolf” is so unique in his individual style that he officially merits a genre of his own. Don’t be surprised to hear that someone else’s sound is “a la Jean Leloup”.

Along with our aim of expanding the culture of our members and readers, if you are looking to expand your horizons this is a good place to start.

Look for this album and others by Jean Leloup (and Jean Leclerc) on our themo store. Click any ticketmaster link to purchase ticket and see if Jean Leloup is playing somewhere near you.

Images taken from:
http://www.roiponpon.com/

If there’s one thing that Senses Fail knows how to do, it’s to put on a hell of a good show. Recently, they were in town for their One More Brick tour with A Skylit Drive, Closure in Moscow, and FACT.

The opening band [...]]]> Senses Fail (w. A Skylit Drive, Closure in Moscow, FACT)
10/15/2009
Event Rating: ★★★★☆
(non collaborated)*

If there’s one thing that Senses Fail knows how to do, it’s to put on a hell of a good show. Recently, they were in town for their One More Brick tour with A Skylit Drive, Closure in Moscow, and FACT.

The opening band of the night was Japan’s very own, FACT. Now, to say my knowledge of FACT is minimal would be an understatement, but I have to say they impressed. They played with a quite a bit of energy and really strived to impress with their rhythmic hooks and stage presence. What I must say is the most intriguing about these five dudes from Japan that they seemed to balance the hardcore/screamo style of their music with elements of “jrock/jpop.” This leads to an interesting and somewhat different sound that allows for FACT to be something quite unique. A Fact of Life is their most appealing and catchy song out of the bunch which also happened to be their first big single stateside. Overall, FACT was a pleasant surprise that I can see myself keeping an eye on in the future.

Up next, was Australia’s, Closure in Moscow. As you can tell so far, this was a very diverse show. As far as the band, I’ve seen them twice. The band opened for Emery a few months back and obviously for Senses Fail now. They’re not a bad band in the least, they’re just really not my thing musically thus I’m going to abstain from getting in-depth when reviewing them. They had good rhythm and clean vocals though fell a bit short when it came to energy.

A Skylit Drive then stormed the stage opening up with a bang. Headed by Michael Jagmin’s unique high pitched harmonious vocals and Brian White’s howls, Skylit makes for an interesting sound just due to Jagmin’s quite different and unique voice, think Chiodos’ Craig Owens, but a bit higher. I’ve listened to the band quite a bit digitally, but their sound was every bit as good live. The band had solid energy though they didn’t seem much for theatrics when performing, but that didn’t take away from the show. The playlist contained their big singles such as; Wires and the Concept of Breathing and their latest, Those Cannons could Sink Ships. I’m a fairly new Skylit follower and while they’re not the deepest or most complex band, they can put on a decent stage show and are worth a listen.

Now for the headliner, New Jersey’s Senses Fail. The band has gone through some personnel changes over the years, but one member has always remained constant, frontman James “Buddy” Nielsen. Let me get this out of the way, Buddy is by far the “angstiest” lead singer I have ever seen. The guy has a lot on his mind and uses the band as his way of dealing with it. In between songs, Buddy likes to bestow odd pieces of his own ideals and philosophy upon the audience that turn out to be quite tongue-in-cheek. This is my third viewing of the band in the past year. Once, while co-headlining with Hollywood Undead and then later in the summer with Warped Tour and they have yet to put on a poor show. Everything from the sound to the performance is all quite well done. Buddy’s theatrics are a sight to behold; he sings every song like it may be his last. The classic microphone whip was ever present; you could see bassist Jason Black keeping an eye out for fear of getting hit. All the big singles were played; Rum is for Drinking, Not Burning, Calling All Cars, and Can’t Be Saved. The big song of the night for me was, The Priest and the Matador. After two previous viewings of them not playing it, I was very excited when the bells started clanging. The intro for the song was cut a bit short, but that’s just me nitpicking as it in no way took away from the impact of the song. This particular venue isn’t known much for set design and the only semblance of that was a giant “Senses Fail” drape hanging behind the band in which all the bands played in front of. Senses Fail is one of those bands that has yet to disappoint and if you enjoy the tunes, you should definitely make it out to a show, it’s quite worth it.

Reviewed by: Justin Roach

Like all shows you can buy ticket via any ticketmaster link on this website. You can also look for any of these artists albums or any music related items on our themo store.

* Limited information is posted, as no collaboration was granted to themo by the venue and/or the event’s promotional/management company.

Buckcherry:

Buckcherry has always had great onstage presence and energy. Anyone who has seen them before will tell you that their interaction and stamina keeps you going back for more. With their ultimate rock and roll personas thick guitar licks and charged lyrics [...]]]> KISS (w. Buckcherry)
10/22/2009
Event Rating: ★★★★☆
Venue: Bank Atlantic Center – Sunrise, FL
Presented by: AEG Live

Buckcherry:

Buckcherry has always had great onstage presence and energy. Anyone who has seen them before will tell you that their interaction and stamina keeps you going back for more. With their ultimate rock and roll personas thick guitar licks and charged lyrics they complete the package of a typical rock band.

Within their performance you will have the active Josh Todd going from one side of the stage to the other jumping around to the music. As usual his voice is impeccable, harsh and … well… rock and roll. Two guitars, Keith Nelson and Stevie D, bass played by Jimmy Ashhurstand and Xavier Muriel’s powerful beats compliment the whole as a non-stop thrill ride.

This band, originating from California, despite their break-ups and make-ups still pack it in for their spectators.

KISS:

For some KISS is about the music and for others it’s about the spectacle, but for most it is the

whole package: the make-up, the clothes (costumes), the custom instruments, the pyrotechnics, the sound, the blood, the tongue, the classic songs, the lights, the flying, the boots, the theatrics, the music, the… (it can be a long list)

KISS, originating from New York, has been around for a very long time. As they say it themselves they were here for the entertainment the couple past generations and plan to be around for the kids in attendance, which needless to say the evidence is clearly there when you look around. From late 50’s and up to the 4, 5, 6 year olds dressed up and in full Paul make-up. (The classic, white face and black star on the right eye… Star Child)

Some might be left in wonder as to why so many people like KISS. One spectator stated: “Their music is not that great, it’s very “glam metal” but live it’s so much more”. Although some may disagree that their music is “not that great”, most concur to the fact that “live they are so much more”.

One thing to take in consideration when reflecting on all that KISS Army hype is when KISS came out in the early 70’s with the make-up, enigma, pyrotechnics etc. it was never before seen. Even though they may have drawn inspiration from Alice Cooper (grandfather, some say, of the theatrical rock), they took it to another level. It created quite a stir and left some referring to them as a flock of devil worshiping noise makers, others were just die hard fans and collected every memorabilia possible got tattooed with their faces etc., while other just saw the great showmanship that qualified them as really good entertainers.

And good entertainers they remained. KISS took care in making sure you got a full taste of their experience. They set up a second stage close to the back of the venue so that those with the more ‘financially friendly’ priced tickets can enjoy the company of Paul Stanley when he swung himself there. (on a hang wire attached to a pole with a hole at the bottom for his foot)

Their constant communication and integration of the crowd was pleasing to all and a highlight of the event. They shared the spotlight with the fans that were eager to sing along to their classic tunes. Despite their advancement in age their energy was ample and in turn their stage presence was imposing. Paul as always was dancing and being the “star child”. Their new guitarist Tommy Thayer really had a handle of the solos giving them plenty of punch and expression. Their new drummer Eric Singer on his platform that raised high in the air to then turn to the left and then to the right, graced the fans with an extended and talented drum solo which seemed to go on and on, yet too short to the satisfied ears of each drum enthusiast in the audience. Gene, well, what can you say? He was exactly what you would expect of him. He gave the performance that is truly his in all respects.

This large venue allowed for a maximizing of artistic “wow”, if you see them, try first for the large venues.

Buckcherry and KISS played all their classics (aside from “God of Thunder” – KISS) and for the most part every fan walked out satisfied and energetically charged.

Like all shows you can buy ticket via any ticketmaster link on this website. You can also look for any of these artists albums or any music related items on our themo store.

In the beginning DJ QG was mixing it up on the turn tables to keep everyone’s hips moving until the first acted came on.

The first group came on and I thought they were pretty good I knew one of the hype men’s from the [...]]]> Ghostface
10/7/2009
Event Rating: ★★★½☆
Venue: Revolution Live – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Presented by: Live Nation

In the beginning DJ QG was mixing it up on the turn tables to keep everyone’s hips moving until the first acted came on.

The first group came on and I thought they were pretty good I knew one of the hype men’s from the low-rider shows his name is tattoo because he is covered in tattoos from his face down. They preformed about four or five songs but I did not know any of them. To tell the truth I don’t think anybody did but it was good though, they really got the people hyped and involved. After they were done I had few drinks with them. They are really nice people I enjoyed the time I spent with them.

DJ QG went back at it for a couple of hours and everyone had a great time dancing and drinking.

At about 11:30 Ghostface finally hit the stage and it was great. He did some songs off his new album and some from older ones. He put on a good show and everybody was having a great time. He and his crew ended the night and thanked everyone for coming out. Told everyone not to leave that he was going to sign autographs and take pictures with anyone. The line was so long and busy for that. I must say Ghostface had a great turn out.

Reviewed by: Joey Henriquez

As Jake Owen is new to the scene of Country music and riding the coat tails of Sugarland, Jake is actually quite funny. Jake is very personable and even though he is utilizing the Sugarland name, Jake really engages with his fans [...]]]> Sugarland (w. Jake Owen)
9/24/2009
Event Rating: ★★★★½
Venue: Bank Atlantic Center – Sunrise, FL
Presented by: AEG Live

As Jake Owen is new to the scene of Country music and riding the coat tails of Sugarland, Jake is actually quite funny. Jake is very personable and even though he is utilizing the Sugarland name, Jake really engages with his fans and or crowd, always making jokes and trying to get the crowd more involved. Jake also seems like a very humble guy, hopefully this does not change when people catch on to how talented he really is. Would I see him in the future if he were on his own? Absolutely.

The Bank Atlantic Center is now officially packed as all the fans were rushing in at the final moments before Sugarland takes the stage. This is what the fans have been waiting for all day and possibly weeks for that distinct voice to show face, that’s right Jennifer. As the lights go down and they are preparing the stage a silence is over the BAC and suddenly that distinct voice comes out of nowhere and the crowd goes crazy. This act is not about great looks and tight jeans it is about music, the fans have all gathered here for the sounds of the instruments together and the high energy that is present on stage from the powerful duo. The energy was there from start to finish the stage was not fancy but the lighting and big screen behind the duo was amazing! Sugarland is a must see, even if you are not a fan of Country the show alone along with her voice and the words to the songs she performs will make you one.

Reviewed by: Chrysanthemum Peterson

Photographs courtesy of Jeff Daly

“Remember we’re Motorhead and we play rock and roll”

About MOTORHEAD MOTORHEAD has been a staple of Rock and Metal since their formation in 1975. With their fast Rock and Roll beats and riffs, Lemmy’s raucous voice, they can be recognized anywhere. This [...]]]> Motorhead (w. Reverend Horton Heat)
9/15/2009
Event Rating: ★★½☆☆
Venue: Ritz Ybor – Tampa, FL
Presented by: AEG Live

“Remember we’re Motorhead and we play rock and roll”

About MOTORHEAD
MOTORHEAD has been a staple of Rock and Metal since their formation in 1975. With their fast Rock and Roll beats and riffs, Lemmy’s raucous voice, they can be recognized anywhere. This is the uniqueness, which has influence many modern-day artists and keep fans of all generations coming.

About REVEREND HORTON HEAT
Originating from Texas, REVEREND HORTON HEAT has a truly unique style of music; the recipe consisting of Swing meets Surf meets Country meets Rock and Roll. Jim Heath has a perfect voice for the style: a medium harsh voice (almost like Dicky Barrett of Mighty Mighty Bosstones).

the Show

REVEREND HORTON HEAT: Not knowing what to expect from REVEREND HORTON HEAT you could of course like them or not. You understand however why they fit well on the same stage with MOTORHEAD. Rock and Roll is in the sauce that makes up their unique style. This three piece band puts off great tones, from Jim’s guitar licks, Paul Simmons drums and the talented Jimbo Wallace classic and loud upright bass.

MOTORHEAD: As mentioned above it was a meeting of the generations. Whether they were young Rock and Rollers or older Rock and Rollers they were side by side ‘head banging’ to the rhythm. The threesome walked on stage and immediately the crowd screams. Lemmy walked up to his microphone jacked up to the ceiling, as usual, and says: “We are MOTORHEAD and we play Rock and Roll”, and went into their 1st song. Everyone rocked out for their hour and a half set and seemed to enjoy themselves rather well, although after the event there was a sense of disappointment not in the actually performance but in the song selection. “They really didn’t play any of my favorite songs” noted a young rockerette “the only popular ones he played were ‘Killed by Death’, ‘Ace of Spades’… and… but… I really wanted to hear ‘Motorhead’ and…uh… especially “(We Are) The Road Crew”, but they are still (edited) awesome”.
While REVEREND HORTON HEAT sound was balanced MOTORHEAD was as they say “everything louder than everything else”… except for the voice. It was hard for the crowd to make out Lemmy’s exceptional voice (during the songs only).

The small venue allowed for a very friendly and intimate atmosphere, which both the crowd and MOTORHEAD seemed to enjoy.

Holding true to their theme Lemmy last words: “Remember we’re Motorhead and we play rock and roll”

Model: U-348

Price: ~ $5,100

(Image is Baldwin B252E which is similar in appearance to the Wurlitzer U-348)

Some would refer to this piano as an “upright grand”. If you like the deep melodic sound of a grand piano but you you have limited space. This is a piano for you.

The Wurlitzer U-348 has the romantic feel [...]]]> Make: Wurlitzer

Model: U-348

Price: ~ $5,100

(Image is Baldwin B252E which is similar in appearance to the Wurlitzer U-348)

Some would refer to this piano as an “upright grand”. If you like the deep melodic sound of a grand piano but you you have limited space. This is a piano for you.

The Wurlitzer U-348 has the romantic feel of a Grand Piano and it’s deep soulful tone – of course not quite the same as a Grand Piano but more than a standard upright. Unlike a Grand Piano you will not have the volume range you might be looking for to enhance the “emotion” of your music. It’s acoustic cage is smaller and not as optimizing as a Grand, but still packs a modest punch. The “modesty” of this piano is perfect if you live in an apartment where you don’t want to disturb – too much – the neighbors. A nice feature it that the top of the piano opens and the face comes off allowing clear sound flow directly from the strings themselves.

The tuning in this piano can last for years but be careful with the pedals they tend to go fast and if you are not a DIY person it can cost you a few bucks to fix.

Wurlitzer and Baldwin are lines of Gibson. Although you can no-longer buy factory new Wurlitzer you may be able to find nice deals out there. If so it is a good quality price. The common consensus however among piano players is to spend a few extra and go for the Baldwin.

Image from:
http://www2.gibson.com/

Model: 1972 Special Series Hand Made B50

Price: Unknown [on newer models (image below) ~$600]

This is as tough as it gets for acoustic guitars. Models like this are priceless.

Since 1972 and despite physical abuse the featured guitar has an unbelievable clear soft sound. It’s delicate tone and clear strong acoustics makes this guitar a great heirloom.

The [...]]]> Make: Norman

Model: 1972 Special Series Hand Made B50

Price: Unknown [on newer models (image below) ~$600]

This is as tough as it gets for acoustic guitars. Models like this are priceless.

Since 1972 and despite physical abuse the featured guitar has an unbelievable clear soft sound. It’s delicate tone and clear strong acoustics makes this guitar a great heirloom.

The neck has does not “bow” easily (This model  has not “bowed” despite it nearing 40 years of age. Usually after that amount of time any guitar – even the best – that was played as much as this one is prone to “bow” a bit). Like Gibson this guitar has a comfortable neck and although it being heavy because of the selection Canadian hard wood it gives off a thick powerful sound presentation.

If you can get an old school model like this one BUY IT! It comes highly recommended.

Get you very own Norman guitar from our themo store!

Image from:
http://www.normanguitars.com/