This Weekends: Reasons to risk the Tornado

LeNUNES (indie/folk) at Boone's Treasury Dec.17th 9pm

Salsa Dancing (includes lessons) at El Patron's Bar and Grill $7 Dec. 17th 8-9pm


Pardon Parcel (folk/indie)

 album release with IV and Brent Fahsholz at Ike Box $5 Dec. 18th all ages 7pm


Matthew Price Band at Boone's Treasury Dec 18th at 9pm (singer/songwriter)

------------------------------------------- Freedom Machine - Matthew Price


The Twangshifters (rockabilly) Ellie Darling (burlesque dancer) and Hopeless Jack and The Handsome Devils (classic southern rock) at Fifty Pub and Grub Dec 18th 8pm 21+

Easterly (indie/pop) at Cafe Noir Dec 19th 6pm

Ty Curtis (bluesy/country) "Concert and Holiday Celebration" at Willamette Valley Vineyards Dec 19th 3pm $15

----------------------------------------------Shake Your Boogie - Ty Curtis

Otis Heat at Boon's Treasury

On Friday, I was at Boon's Treasury, laptop in place, sitting waiting for Otis Heat to begin their set. I was there covering the story for Oregon Music News. I was so impressed with these guys that I had to make mention of them here.

Roll My Head Around - Otis Heat by Otis Heat

To read the article in full and for more info on the band visit : Oregon Music News - Otis Heat: Hidden gems in Boon's Treasury and have a listen, and if you like what you hear go to their website and download the post LP EP for FREE!!

Salem Picks Best Local Bands

Recently, I made the decision to pick up a Salem Weekly and look it over for any up coming shows. I only needed to open to page one before I was gravely destraught. "The Mid-Valley's Best of 2010" Salem Weekly Newspaper edition was staring me in the face. Desperately searching through a hodge-podge (thanks) of last minute assembled catergories to find the music related results, I was suprised by some of the choices in the catergory of "Best Salem Based Bands" which were, some what, half-assed.

So now after taking a breather and re-grouping I make my evaluation of the Winners:

Electric Cities


-----------------------------------------We Sang Like Trumpets - Electric Cities

Upon seeing their first write up in SWN I was intrigued. Their recordings of various live shows displayed a performance that was amateur and nothing of real interest, with vague similiarities to Early Thursday and Refused- minus the impact. Their is potential here, and that shouldn't be over looked, but as far as memorable music goes... they would be, sadly, forgotten in a line up with almost any other band in this particular genre. Not the top of my list for best Salem based band.

Enemy Combatant

A band who's claim to fame came, assumingly, after their write up in SWN. I gave these guys a brief listen and had to stop to cringe, slightly. The lyrical content is weak, the musical talent is elementary grade, and filled with teen angst. Which could be cool if any of them were teens, or even looked under the age of 30...

Foxtrot

Yes, a breathe of fresh air. Foxtrot, has clean clear music with strokes of Indie and Folk. slightly difficult to find online, once you do discover their page you find they have a steady fan base and line up of shows, showing they are a very active band. The quality of their first recordings are rough and slightly muffled, but the music itself is entertaining and matured.

The Funhouse Strippers

Classic rocking: "dance your ass off at 12 midnight when you're drunk out of your mind, wake up in a back alley" good time. It's fun and simple. Nothing wrong here, but not really what I would consider the best.

Monoplane

Owner of Ranch Records David Ballantyne and Owner of The Space(R.I.P) Doug Hoffman's love child. This band is certainly list worthy. Teetering on the edge of plain insanity and good rock, Monoplane brings grungy, edgy, classic southern rock back to life. Just see it for yourself...

---------------------------------------------------Do Over - Monoplane



Neversleep

Many times I have seen these oversized stickers slapped across some run down vehicle and never knew why. Now, thanks to SWN, I know that this is another angry, slap your mom, Metal band. Heavy on the bass with a side of one too many breakdowns. This is obviously not my cup o' tea, but every city has their Nickelback and Staind followers, which gives bands like this a leg-up on the competition. Gotta love that guitar effect though, very... dated. Hold on to yesterday, Neversleep. Apparently a large chunk of Salem is too.

Salem Concert Band

Yep, they are "Salem" based and yes, they are also a "Band". Bravo.

The Ty Curtis Band

Lastly we reach Ty Curtis or rather "The Ty Curtis Band". This is just plain old hard work showing its efforts, and sounding good in the process. It's soulful country-esque blues with vocal similarities to Marc Broussard and music similar to good ol' BB King. I got no problems here.


The real grief which overcame me stems from looking over this list and not seeing what seems to me like obvious talent, such as: Massive Moth, symmetry/symmetry, Kopath Bear, The Volks, Camino Deluxe or Norman (a band who is listed as being from the Willamette Valley!). These bands are in my opinion a hand full of bands in Salem that are suffering losses due to a lack of effective music outlets here in Salem. Friends it's time to step up and step out. The music here is beautiful. You just need to come out and have a listen.

Till then, I'll be here desperately trying to ween those of you "home dwelling hobbits" out and into the world of live pulsing local music.

Reasons to strap on the rainboots this weekend

Otis Heat @ Boones Treasury
*I will be at this event doing a write up for Oregon Music News*
12/3/10
Show starts at 8pm
No cover charge
21+
------------------------------------------------Lady Long Legs - Otis Heat
 

Foxtrot vs Catherdra vs Open-fate vs Motae @ Salem Library

In Lockes Auditorium
12/03/10
Show starts at 7pm
$5 advance tickets available/$7 tickets at door night of
All-ages
more info @ City of Salem's - Live Music section



Bold Riley Cd Release @ Brown's Towne Lounge
12/4/10
Show starts @ 7:30pm
Tickets: Free?
21+

--------------------------------------Calliope House -  Bold Riley



Electric Cities w/ Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band and The Globes @ Ikebox
12/4/10
Show starts at 7pm
Tickets: $7
All-ages

--------------------------------En Fuego - Mt St Helens Vietnam Band



3rd annual Dimebag Darrell Tribute show @ Triangle Inn
12/4/10
Show starts at 7pm
Tickets: TBA
w/ Hamunaptra, Neversleep, Purity and Pain, and MORE TBA.



Will West and The Friendly Strangers @ Boone's Treasury

---------------------------------Will West and The Friendly Strangers


*From my experience watching Will West live, this will be a show to catch. Will has made himself a staple in the Portland music scene and his live performances never let down.*

12/4/10
Show starts 9pm
no cover charge
21+


This weekend will be an amazing weekend for Salem's Music/Nightlife. So if you don't have any plans, be sure to make the trek through the rain and seek out one of these amazing shows!

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An Excerpt From My Oregon Music News Article

The new LP Have Cake from Salem's Symmetry/Symmetry is something Ace of Cakes Duff Goldman would dive face first into.

The sophomore album from the trio turned quartet takes the electric and raw elements of their first album Love Breaks Light and amps it up. Symmetry/Symmetry was originally comprised of lead singer Daniel Jones, guitarist Joel Uram and drummer Andrew Quackenbush. Recently, local bassist Mark Cleaver joined the guys to help with gigging and has been with the band on what seems like a permanent basis.
Riddled with unique hooks and thought provoking lyrics, "Have Cake" does not fall short in its over-all production quality, due to lead singer Daniel Jones' 7+ years of experience in a studio setting.



The album begins with “The Great Saboteur” which, along with “Wedding Song” and “We Are Not Who We Say We Are”, set the tone. Andrew's drumming stylistically organic, accented by a banquet of colorful electronic beats and rhythms. Joel’s guitar work punctuates and clarifies every movement throughout with ridged riffs and melodic leads. Daniel's long-drawn-out vocals create haunting and passionate melodies. To fans of Menomena and Band of Horses, "Have Cake" is an album worth taking a listen to and Symmetry/Symmetry, in my opinion, is a band Salem should be brimming with pride over. AMV


Symmetry/Symmetry will be playing at Doug Fir LoungeDec. 16th

*To view this article in its entirety visit: Oregon Music News - "Symmetry/Symmetry has cake"

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Bringing Sexy Back

It's time for an update!
let's start with what is new with me (I'll summarize)...
- Our newest addition to the family will be with us in Feb.
- Started interning for OregonMusicNews.com with a focus on Salem's Music scene
- Got a new laptop! Thanks Black Friday!
- Violet Isle just contracted a booking agent( big deal for us)
- Lastly, I'm starting up again with Salem Music Surge
So on to the matters of relevence for you, the inquiring mind...



December comes baring gifts for all willing to step out into the cold and unwrap them, like these little treasures:


Steve Pulver - acoustic guitarist
Friday, November 26th @ Willamette Noodle Factory
8pm, Tickets: included when dining in (assuming)

Blueberry Hill Records Showcase


For Charles - EP Release of "Friends & Family"
Saturday, November 27th @ Ikebox
7pm, Tickets: $7 - All Ages
w/ Noah Hall, Sirens and The Sea , and Christopher McFetridge

Tent City Music
Saturday, November 27th @ Clockworks Cafe
7pm, Tickets: N/A - All Ages
w/ Tonya Gilmore

Joni Harms - classic country
Sunday, November 28th @ RedHawk Winery
4pm, Tickets: N/A

Due to a trending theme for this weekend at home and in the line up of shows I would also like to include Maynard's Bakery on Broadway. Every Sunday afternoon, Maynard's boasts having some real Jazz, sadly, I am never in town/available to take them up on the offer. Anyone checked it out?

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Taking a Thanksgiving/Birthday Break

Yep. Be back soon :)

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This Weekends "Festivities to Embrace"

It's Halloween Weekend. I feel I have spoken my peace regarding all the stellar things you can do this weekend in my previous posts. So go out and make it a good one!

Also be sure to check out my band Violet isle @
Violet Isle's Facebook Page
And hit the "Like" button if you are diggin' the tunes!

Cheers,
Alva
PS. to all those who stumble upon my blog; Please feel welcome to leave comments/messages I would love some feedback!

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Saturday Night Live

This weekend, I decided, would be spent at home with the family, to do family things and to relax. I did, however, make an exception for one event in Salem Saturday night. Rishloo was finishing up their tour in Salem and choose Symmetry/Symmetry to celebrate with at the IKE Box . So after little deliberation I drove over to catch Symmetry/Symmetry's set.

I walked into a coffee house filled with some of Salem's best dressed Hipsters and the occassional goth/metal kid, Symmetry/Symmetry had already taken the stage for sound check. There was very little preparation and then they started.
-The set began with an ambient intro accompanying Daniel Jones' long drawn, uniquely melodic vocals. It was a good precursor for the songs to follow. The show moved seamlessly from song to song.
-Andrew Quackenbush's drumming was careful and delicately placed. His technique was enjoyable and added a great dimension to the bands over all aesthetic.
-Keys and electronic rhythms were almost constantly present.
-Guitar work was meaningful, adding strong accents and punctuations to every song. Guitarist Joel Uram's vocals complemented, harmonized and occassionally lead various tunes throughout. There was lots of movement around the stage as Joel and Daniel swapped instruments for various songs.
-Mark Cleaver the newest member(but by no means, a rookie) brought light, simplistic bass lines that added well to Symmetry/Symmetry's already established sound.

All in all, the songs almost forces you to move your body, close your eyes and take it all in. Symmetry/Symmetry is a group of equally talented musicians blending their creative takes on all things current in indie. Reminescent of Menomena, it was a winning performance through and through.

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This Weekend's "Reasons to Get Out of the House"

Oct. 22nd-Oct. 24th


FRIDAY:


"Festival De Musica"



Place: Riverfront Bar & Grill

Featuring Performances by: Red Hook Gypsy, Kopath Bear, Lust Wagon and Yellow Lights

Time: @8pm, 21+(assuming)


"Fresh Connex"

Local Artist Showcase

Place: Rack 'n Cue and All Ages viewing room available in Mr. Video

Performances by: Chemical Smile, Final Offense, Genocide, Steady Riot, Fresco, The Valerie Court Massacre and Young Drew

Time: @9:30 - 21+ (in actual bar)


SATURDAY:




Place: IKE Box
Featuring Performances by: Rishloo, Symmetry/Symmetry, The Welcome Home

Time: @7pm - All Ages $5 cover





Cherry Sity Derby Girls vs S.M.A.S.H Unit

Place: Linn County Fair/Expo Center (Santiam Building)

Tickets Available Online $10 Advance, $13 at door

Time: @5pm - All Ages (assuming)


SUNDAY:





JOHN LEE HOOKER JR.

Place: Mac's Place in Silverton

Time: @8pm - 21+

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This Isn't, Technically, Salem Related...

The "Portland Music Awards" are coming up and my band Violet Isle would love to make it as "Best New Artist" and/or "Best Live Performance". All it takes is for you to vote! Yes you! You reading this! You don't even have to be from Portland. Just go to Portland Music Award Polls and type in your thoughts for the various awards. You can vote once per computer daily. So bust out your iPads, iPhones, laptops, desktops (technically you can't "bust out" a desktop, but...), Droids, and every other internet capable device you see and make one boy's dream come true.

Thanks for reading!

Cheers,
Alva

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Last Week to Vote

Willamette Live's "Best Of" event is coming to a close Oct. 28th.

Now is the time to submit your choices for local favorites!

Including your choice for Salem's best band and music venue!

Just go to: "Best Of"

You can vote once daily, per computer.
So there it is Salem- short and sweet like my wife. ;)

Cheers!

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13 Nights Of Halloween

This is a direct "Copy and Paste" of an e-mail I received from Clockworks Cafe
about all the exciting events going on starting Today in celebration of the "13 Nights Of Halloween" Presented by the Culture Shock Community Project. So enjoy!



Below is the Complete Schedule for the 13 Nights of Halloween Festival in Salem, Oregon presented by the Culture Shock Community Project. If you have any questions about events, please contact us at 13nights@cultureshockproject.com (If you are interested in helping, donating, or volunteering, we want you!)

TUESDAY, OCT 19th -KICK OFF!
-7pm Zombie March (Flash Mob)
Where: Steps of Capital building/Court Street side
Cost? Free and open to the public.

Zombies of the mid-Willamette Valley will gather at the steps of the Court Street steps of the Capitol Building then march through the streets of Salem, finishing their escapades Clockworks Café. This is also a food drive for Marion Polk Food Share; participants & watchers are encouraged to bring a can or two of food to donate. Help the Zombies feed the People!
Community Partner: HOME Youth & Resource Center (Raising food for Marion & Polk Food Share)

WEDNESDAY, OCT 20th
-7pm Mad Science
Where? -Willamette University -Montag Events Center
Cost? -Free and Open to the public

Come watch the Mad Scientists do the experiments you wish your Chemistry Teacher had done. (explosions, chemical reactions, fire, glowing ice). Also, poi fire dancers!
Community Partners: Willamette Chemistry Club & Willamette Poi Fire Spinners

THURSDAY, OCT 21st
-7pm. Ghastly Ghostly Tales: A Special Evening Grown-Up Storytime Where: Salem Public Library, Loucks Auditorium
Cost? Free & Open to the public

Actors from Pentacle Theatre are teaming up with Salem Public Library for an evening of bone-chilling ghost stories in this dramatic special edition of the Library’s Grown-Up Storytime. Actors Tom Wrosch, Claire Diehl, Erika Zuelke, and Edward Klein will be featured in a 90-minute event featuring four delightful stories whose inspiration comes from beyond the grave. "The Boarded Window" by Ambrose Bierce "Long Distance Call" by Richard Matheson "Ghost Hunter" by Sydney J. Bounds "The Wrong Grave" by Kelly Link
Community Partners: Salem Public Library & Pentacle Theater

FRIDAY, OCT 22nd
-6pm Children Of The Corn
Where: Willamette Valley Fruit Company
Cost? Varies depending on age and activity

Join the organizers of 13 Nights for a night of fun: Corn Maze, Hay Ride, Corn Crib, Mini-Maze Pedal Tractors and more! Get a coupon for $1 off the corn maze at Clockworks Café. This is also a great time to pick up your pumpkin so you can join in on our Creative Pumpkin Carving
Community Partner: Willamette Valley Fruit Company

FRIDAY, OCT 22nd
-(Two Tours: 7pm and 8pm) Salem Ghost & Underground Tour Where: Reed Opera House (Meet at Reed Opera House)
Cost? Free & Open to the Public

Learn about the dark secrets of Salem in the Ghost and Underground Tours at the Reed Opera House as part of the 13 Nights of Halloween. This is a rare opportunity to venture into the rarely seen tunnels deep below Salem's downtown area, and also learn of Salem's haunted past! Two Tours: 7 PM & 8 PM Community Partners: Reed Opera House

SATURDAY, OCT 23rd
-4pm Thrill The World (Downtown Thriller Dance)
Where? -CHEMEKETA ST. (Between Commercial & Liberty)
Cost? Free to view or participate (but we are accepting book donations for SMART)

In 2009, 32 residents of Salem danced in the streets, joining over 22, 000 other people across the world to set the record for largest simultaneous Thriller dance…this year we will do better!!! Come watch us as we aim at helping break this record and set a new one! (If you are interested in dancing, please contact 13nights@cultureshockproject.com ASAP!!)

BOOKS FOR BRAINS: Our zombie crew, with their brain buckets will be roaming while we dance, collecting donations for SMART –Start Making a Reader Today. Community Partners: Cherry City Derby Girls & Go Downtown SATURDAY, Oct 23rd -10am to 6pm Ghosts In The Library (Movie Marathon) Where: Loucks Auditorium, Salem Public Library Cost? All are free and open to the public on a first-come, first-seated basis. 10 a.m. -Ghostbusters (PG, 105 minutes) 12 noon -Field of Dreams (PG, 106 minutes) 2 p.m. -The Sixth Sense (PG-13, 107 minutes) 4 p.m. -Ghost (PG-13, 127 minutes) Community Partners: Salem Public Library

SATURDAY, OCT 23rd (to SUN OCT 24th)
-Starts at 10am The 24-Hour Comic -Halloween Edition
Where: Clockworks Café
Cost? Free and Open to the Public -But must pre-register

Here is the challenge: 24 hours to create a 24 page comic. Sounds easy? Ah contraire! The creativity flows, the sleeplessness goes, and the craziness shows! Work as an individual, or as a group. Visit our website at www.cultureshockproject.com/13nights for registration information and participation form. Community Partner: Corrosive Comics SATURDAY, Oct 23rd -6pm Monster Smash Roller Derby Bout Where: Linn-County Fairgrounds (Albany, OR) Cost? $10 pre-sale / $13 Door Get tickets at Clockworks Café or at http:// www.brownpapertickets.com/event/122128 With Sick Town Derby Dames & Cherry City Derby Girls

Come see the epic rematch between Salem/ Keizer’s CHERRY CITY DERBY GIRLS and Albany/Corvallis’ SICK TOWN DERBY DAMES, in this all-girl roller derby flat-track extravaganza.
Community Partners: Sick Town Derby Dames & Cherry City Derby Girls

SUNDAY, Oct 24th
-2pm Two-Wheel TerroRide
Where? -Bikes congregate at Clockworks Café
Cost? Free and Open to the Public

Come out for a costumed bike ride around Salem...be sure to dress up, and don't forget, your bike is part of your costume! PRIZES!! –plus its fun and a great workout, too!!!
Community Partners: Santiam Bicycle.

SUNDAY, Oct 24th
-4pm The Mad Hatters Tea (And Coffee) Party
Where? Clockworks Café
Cost? Free to participate (Coffee/Tea/Food available for purchase)

Why is a raven like a writing desk? Maybe you'll find out at 13 Nights's Mad Hatter's Tea Party with our oddball experience of fun and games! Coffee tasting with Stumptown Coffee, teas from Smith Tea and an assortment of delicious Halloween Tea Party delights from Marsee Bakery. Also get a chance to sample our new gourmet collocate menu which will be unveiling in November. Dress up as your favorite Alice character if you are so inclined.
Community Partners: Stumptown Coffee, Smith Teas, Extreme Chocolates and Marsee Bakery

MONDAY, Oct 25th
-Starting at 4:30pm through the evening Creative Pumpkin Carving Where? Willamette Art Center (Oregon State Fairgrounds)
Cost? Free & Open to the Public -(please bring your own pumpkins)

Back by popular demand! Come to WAC and join with the creative staff to learn how to care a unique pumpkin in a fun, social environment.
Community Partner: Willamette Art Center

MONDAY, Oct 25th
-7pm Magic Now!!
Where: Clockworkse Café
Cost? Free & Open to the Public

A night of spooky magic & mystery with the Amazing John Edsall, Dr. D. R. Schreiber, Magician William Darcy & Glen Bledsoe –Lord Dazzle. Show features magic tricks AND close-up magic as the magicians walk through the audience. Be amazed!!

TUESDAY, Oct 26th
-7pm Do-It-Yourself Costume Contest
Where? Clockworks Café
Cost? Free & Open to the Public (please check website for contest entry details)

Ultimate DIY Costume Contest...craft a costume that uses no "prepackaged/store bought" costume parts. (Propos ok) Can you do it? Come show off your creativity! (visit www.cultureshockproject.com/13nights for entry details) Prizes in multiple categories! Live Music!
Community Partner: Cherry Redd

WEDNESDAY, Oct 27th
-Starting at 6pm and running through the evening Costumed Open Mic
Where? Clockworks Café
Cost? Free & Open to the Public

A special-edition of our incredibly popular Wednesday Open Mic, hosted by Elvicious Cash. Come dressed up and show off your talents (music, poetry, comedy, magic, dance…all acts welcome and encouraged)
Community Partner: EC Productions

THURSDAY, OCT 28th
-9pm HalloQueen Bingo
Where? The Southside Speakeasy
Cost? No Cover Charge / 21 and over / Bingo Cartds cost (fundraiser)

Drag Queen Bingo hosted by Miss Fabulanzaa! 2 for 1 drinks! Prizes provided by local retail and food vendors, and proceeds benefit a Friends of Felines (cuz cats are drag queens, too!) Patrons are encouraged to come in costume and dance as well!
Community Partners: Southside Speakeasy and Friends of Felines

FRIDAY, OCT 29th
-6pm Zombie Yoga
Where? Indigo Wellness/Yoga Center -Downtown
Cost? $8 Drop-In cost

The Halloween spirit is undead and well at Indigo Yoga studio! Drag your decrepit zombie self to our (un)-Happy Hour yoga class and move your miserable flesh...you aren't dead yet! Zombie costumes and make-up encouraged but not required.
Community Partner: Indigo Wellness Center

FRIDAY, Oct 29th
-7pm All-Hallows Belly Dancing
Where? Clockworks Café
Cost? Free & Open To The Public

Join Clockworks monthly belly dance showcase with an all-hallows twist. Showcase features a fusion blend of styles, flavors, and troupes. Come check it out!
Community Partner: Sherry Calahan

FRIDAY, OCT 29th
-Starts at 8pm and runs late into the evening Heads Will Roll: Executioner’s Bowling
Where? Town & Country Lanes (Keizer)
Cost? Varies based on package; Free shoe rental for all those in full costume

Even an executioner needs to blow off some steam. Throw on your best outfit and come down to Town & Country for a great, old-fashioned bowling event! LIVE MUSIC from Shift and Fixed & Dilated, plus DJ’d tunes.
Community Partner: Town & Country Lanes

SATURDAY, Oct 30th
-Starting at 1pm Trick or Treat on Downtown Streets
Where? Downtown Salem (central meeting point TBA)
Cost? Free & Open to the public

Grab the kids, throw on your costumes, and bring them out to Downtown Salem to trick or treat with participating businesses. Possible festivities and activities will be posted soon. Stay connected!
Community Partners: Go Downtown! with local downtown businesses.

SATURDAY, October 30th
-6pm Ghost Hunter Open House
Where? Clockworks Café
Cost? Free and Open to the Public

Ever wonder what a real-life ghost hunter does? Come meet one of Salem’s Paranormal Investigator teams, SIGHT. Ask questions, check out gear, and review footage at this ghost hunter paranormal open house hosted by
Community Partner: SIGHT (Salem Investigating Ghost Hunting Team).

SATURDAY, October 30th
-9pm and MIDNIGHT Rocky Horror Picture Show -Interactive Where? High Street Cinema
Cost? $10 -Includes goodie bag of props (Fundraiser for George Tabb)

Let’s Do the Time Warp Again!!! Live & Interactive…it’s the Rocky Horror Picture Show! On the screen, stage and in your lap (well, almost)… The Halloween Classic, brought to life by Salem’s interactive film and movie project. Sure to be an evening of surprises you don’t want to miss! (Funds raised from this event will benefit George Tabb)

Goodie bag of props provided (no outside props, please) Limited tickets available at the door. Get your tickets NOW from Cherry Redd, Clockworks Café, High Street Cinema or Salem Cinema. Soon to be available online at Brown Paper Tickets.
Community Partner: Salem Cinema

SUNDAY, October 31st
-Starting at 9pm and going late Monster Mash Dance Party
Where? Ventis Café
Cost: Free entry, 21+

Come dance the night away...at the Monster Mash...Costume up and party down!
Community Partner: Ventis Café

SUNDAY, Oct 31st
-10pm Premiere of The Walking Dead
Where? Browns Towne Lounge
Cost? Free, 21 and over

One of the greatest zombie comic books of ALL TIME, The Walking Dead, has been turned into a TV show. Come out with your fellow zombies and enjoy a special night of fun together as we watch the exciting premiere of this show! Details to follow
Community Partner: Browns Towne Lounge

*ALSO, during the entire season: Don’t forget to go check out the Nightmare Factory at the Oregon School for the Deaf, recently renovated by Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. All proceeds support the school’s incredible efforts!

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KMUZ Salem's Community Radio Station needs YOU!

Plain and simple... New radio stations are a serious investment, especially when it's community focused.

KMUZ is a local station looking to get some air play. Karen Holman, a former Willamette University Professor, took up this project a few years back and has finally been given the go ahead to raise the funds for the station. With her FCC license in hand she still needs $30,000 by August 2011 to make the deadline.

After speaking with Karen she filled me in on where KMUZ stands at this moment. "We have the construction permit and our FCC license will become valid if we get on the air by summer 2011..." Right now Karen is looking for help in the fields of fundraising, grant writing and in the techical related aspects of running a radio station.

Go to any of these listed sites for the latest:
- KMUZ's Official Website

- KMUZ's Myspace Page

- KMUZ's Facebook Page

Gonna be in Salem Oct. 29th?
Come out to Willamette University and catch KMUZ Presents: "The Life of Bob Marley"

This may seem like a lofty goal to some but, I recently witnessed and assisted in the acheiving of this goal with KZME Portland's community radio station which will now, after lots of local support, be on the air this Fall and their goal was much larger. If you feel you can assist, volunteer or even know someone who can support this station as it begins this race. Contact Karen - KHolman@willamette.edu

It goes without say for us living in Salem why KMUZ needs to be a success here in Salem. So answer the call Salem, we can do it!

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The Aftermath

After a very long work day Friday, due to lots of anticipation for the weekend, the night was scheduled to be spent at Bush Barn watching Symmetry/Symmetry , drinking wine and socializing with fellow members of Salem Art Association That, sadly, never came to pass due to the loss of my wallet a whole week prior. So I went home in a huff and spent the night playing video games (I know).

Saturday was off to a good start, morning breakfast at the Sassy Onion, Yum! Then Costco for some essentials. My wife and I spent the afternoon running errands. Then, once 5 o' clock rolled around, my family came down from Portland and we were off to the IKE Box for our show.

Chris Baron was the first on at 7pm. An acoustic solo act for the night (he usually is accompanied by his band Searchlights ). His peformance had a warmth to it that invited you to relax as he delivered his life experiences via clever guitar lines and strong vocal clarity.

Then, we (Violet Isle ) went on @8pm. It was a fun show and being as it was our third time at the Ike Box it was much easier to make adjustments for the acoustics in the room.

Lastly, Kopath Bear came on and sadly were at maybe a 75%, due to not having their keys player (a stand in was present for the show) and over half of them sick with a cold. I was still very impressed with their set. The singer played acoustic and roared his way through most the set with a Kings of Leon-esque tone to his voice. The drummer was stiff and played more by feel than memory it seemed. The guitarist complimented the acoustic well and I found thier chemistry enjoyable. The bassist was a stand alone in my mind. His technique was clean and the lines were well crafted- it was bass playing that deserved recognition. Over all, the sound was rough, bass guitar was overwhelming, the songs were a good kind of Indie/Progressive with well placed stops and pauses. This band seems to be the kind of band that could take on some serious momentum, and I look forward to seeing where it will take them and also catching another show when they are at 100%.


After the show we decided to head over to the Nightmare Factory with a couple of friends.

Being as it was near closing the line had deminished and we were able to get in quickly on general admission. The wait was enjoyable the line weaved through a clever maze of haunting images with the occasional spookers creeping up on people in line lost in conversation.

The actual trip through the Factory was a flurry of high quality special effects and mechanics. The themes were enjoyable and we found there were many opportunities to jump back in fright but, mostly found ourselves in "awe" of the quality of this production. Everyone, including myself; was impressed and felt it was a worth while experience. Maybe not the creepiest, scariest, place to go. But enjoyable none the less.

Sunday was family day and then practice in Portland later that night. Followed by a long drive home in our new family friendly car. My weekend was on a scale of 1 to 10: an 8, and that is pretty damn good.

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This Weekends: "Must Sees"

Friday:
SYMMETRY/SYMMETRY performs at the Salem Art Association's Art Fusion event at Bush Barn Art Center! Doors @ 7pm (21+) $5 buys you a ticket and membership to the SAA as well as dozens of free samples from local vendors.

EXIT Skate and snowboard shop celebrate their 17th Birthday @ the Ike Box with Volcom's "9191" video showing and "Peep Show" video showing. (all-ages) $5

Saturday:
KOPATH BEAR and VIOLET ISLE at the Ike Box @7pm (all-ages) $5

MASSIVE MOTH at Boon's Treasury @9pm (21+)

Sunday:
(For the metal heads)
Metal Showcase at the Wasteland with bands from LA: Jackson California as well as SKYWARD COLLAPSE from Portland and some local acts to be announced. @6:30 (all-ages)

(For the jazz heads)
Willamette University's Smith Stadium will host "A Night At The Cotton Club" a showcase of Harlem's finest jazz re-done by some local greats. @8pm


+ All Week Event: "2010 Salem Film Festival" @ Salem Cinema, High Street Cinema and The Grand Theater $8 a flick. 10/15-10/22 more details and show listings visit Salem Film Festival

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Special "Halloween/Fall in Salem" Blog

Need somewhere to go to feel like a "halloweenie"? Thanks to Extreme Makeover, you do now! Along with brand new dorm rooms, Extreme Makeover did a complete over haul of our "Nightmare Factory" with the aid of legendary spookster Rob Zombie.

This will be the attraction of the season in my opinion. It already was one of the best "haunted houses" in Salem, but now with House of a Thousand Corpses creator, Rob Zombie, on the scene it is the place to be for a good scare.

Not into wetting your pants?

Just north of Salem is the age old tradition of the Pumkin Patch. Check out Bauman Farms! With hay rides, Hot cocoa, corn mazes, and a kid zone, this is where you want to be if you have a larger family looking to get out the house and enjoy some fall time merriment. Don't be lead astray by the over the top animated website, this place has the right stuff.

And let's not forget the Trick or Treating. My picks for Salem's hottest trick or treating spots this year:

Chapman Hill in West Salem
D St., east of Downtown
Inside North Salem High School

So go and haunt the streets of Salem this fall because there is lots to see. Maybe you can let me know of any sweet treats you discover while out and about.

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Vintage Clothing Giveaway

Yup, you heard right! And, boy, did I luck out yesterday when I accidentally stumbled into this amazing event.

I stopped into the Coffee House Cafe (to drop off flyers for a show my band will be playing this Saturday) and noticed they had just put out the chalk sign and were writting on it. I paid no mind. When I was finished hanging up the flyer I discovered they had opened up what seemed like an old ballet room in the back and dumped on the floor thousands of random vintage clothes/items in rows... unfolded, unorganized, stacks of clothes and hardly a soul around. I went to the girl who was writing "Vintage Clothes Giveaway" on the chalk sign and asked if this could be true, and she answered me, "Yep, we get boxes and boxes of overstock vintage clothes from an online company and so we give 'em away, once a year, to lighten the load." I walked back in and went to town! Minutes after the sign was complete people started swarming in with disbelief. I snagged: one sweet belt, two vintage sweatshirts, lined navy blue windbreaker, a Members Only jacket, and a pair of tweed slacks... for FREE! It was brilliant. and so I say this, Thank you Salem and thank you Coffee House Cafe for making my fall/winter clothing collection a whole lot cooler.

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"Band Buzzing" (a series)

First Installment:

When searching for bands to collaborate with and book shows with, I turn to the basics: the local papers, repeats at hot venues, word of mouth, good promotionals, etc. Very active bands are the ones to grab my attention. I want the band that's working hard to make themselves known.

Just by scratching at the surface of Salem I've uncovered these gems, thus far:

Symmetry/Symmetry

This is a band I discovered while booking with the Ike Box. Andrew does the booking there and also plays drums for Symmetry/Symmetry.

The Vicious Kisses

Sean and Nick, our lead singer and drummer, were asked to play acoustic guitar and keys for a few shows with this band. I caught their Ike Box show and really dug Mark, the lead singers, voice, and the overall energy of the band.

Norman

A friend invited me out to see Norman in Albany and I loved their set. They continue to put out great performances around town and are really keeping the momentum up.

Massive Moth

Doug Hoffman's band; they were the first band I caught wind of when I moved down to Salem.

Kopath Bear

I just recently heard the buzz about this band. They are working hard around town and drawing in quite the following even without any music available to listen to online.

This is by no means a review or a promo for these bands. I am only listing them because they have created enough of a buzz to reach my ear.

More to come.

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Middle of the Road

On a small city block between High and Liberty on Chemeketa, every Wednesday From May to October, is a little treasure dubbed Wednesday Market.

White tents line the street and the smell of fresh cooked meats rise up like a smoke signal calling locals in. This is one of our many treasures. Lucky for me, I work just down the street and very often find the time to walk up and down the aisles of Wednesday Market to say "Hi" to the regular vendors and greet the new ones. Vendors with fresh meats, locally grown eggs, and family farm vegetables along with local florists and jewelers, make this a great place to go on my break to clear my mind and take me away from it all.



I would say, in most situations, that this place lacks in variety and could use some expansion. But truly, I feel Wednesday Market is just right. The perfect fit for the middle of the work week, in the middle of the city, during the middle of my day.

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Local Joe

When word got out that Trader Joe's was looking at a liquor licenses for the old building across the street from Winco in South Salem, my heart skipped a beat. The idea of one of my creature comforts from Portland residing here in Salem with me, was exhilirating! Now it's official, Trader Joe's is moving to Salem and I couldn't be more thrilled (except if Limbo moved next door)!! For me Life Source has been the end-all-be-all for local products in a one stop shop setting and I was coming to terms with it. But now the idea of local products available at an affordable price is overwhelming.

When I lived in Gresham, Trader Joe's was pricing a building in downtown Gresham but they voted to turn it down... disappointment. I had the same concern for Salem but the transaction seems to be going smooth... relief. Of course until I can walk into Trader Joe's and walk out with a months worth of 2 Buck Chuck, I will remain weary.

What does any of this have to do with music/art you may ask? Well I'm sure that if I tried I could validate it with something about local artist needing local food to help them feel connected to their roots and blah blah blah. But the truth is... I just love local stuff. It's enriching for the community.

This Space Vacant

I've been watching as "The Space", Salem's iconic music venue, has struggled to stay afloat since it's birth. Noise complaints were hitting The Space and hitting it hard. So it came as no suprise to me when I read that The Space had closed down.

For over two years, The Space and Salem's Music Scene were one in the same. Massive Moth, a band Doug Hoffman (owner of The Space) had established in Salem, was well know, well respected, and rightfully so. In my mind Doug, along with a small handful of others, is Salem's musical front-runner. So when The Space lost the battle with it's neighbors and had to shut down, there was a literal silence in Salem. There has been a Facebook page dedicated to the revival of The Space already built titled "Save The Space" as well as others waiting on the call from Doug himself who had sent a email stating that he has his eye on downtown Salem for a new potential location.

The outlook on music life in Salem is not bleek, however. New places like Clockworks and Wasteland are growing in popularity and bands are coming out and making a splash. The battle of The Space is viewed by many as a crippling blow, but we will most certainly press on.

Best of luck Doug,
Alva

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For more about Doug's band Massive Moth visit: Massive Moth's Profile

Is Violet Isle Local Now? (I think so)

I have been working hard to establish the name Violet Isle as a local band. Granted, I was living in Portland when we started VI. Now living in Salem, I have the strong desire to see my band as a part of Salem's growing music scene.

We first made our splash in Salem at the annual Oregon State Fair (which, technically, was our very first live show ever) in 2008. Our lead singer had been established as a solo act up until this point. There was a haze of confusion, due to miscommunication on both parts, which landed this full band with fresh music on the "acoustic stage" in the artisan village. Thus creating a lot of frustrated local artists desperately trying to talk, over our music, with onlookers about their creations. Before our set, we were warned to watch the volume of our performance and various times during our set we were reminded to do so with polite taps on the shoulder by vendors and verbal requests like, "Can you please turn down your drums?"

Our second time in Salem, we set up camp at The "Infamous" Space during the Cherry City Music Festival in 09' sharing the bill with Half Shark Half Jesus and two no shows. And again at CCMF in 2010, we were asked to play at a new metal venue called Wasteland. Seeing that we wouldn't have been a very good fit, I called Ike Box and asked if they had room to book us. We played a midnight show there to a dozen people; it was the good kind of intimate (I am grateful for you coming through on that one, Andrew). Our fourth attempt was when we released our first LP "i am ivy". We had a CD Release Party at Ike Box on July 10th 2010. It felt right and the crowd was lovely.

We have been through the up's and down's, in the place I now call home, and keep coming back for more. So I request this of you, Salem: go and have a listen, whether it's checking out the myspace.com profile, downloading the album at the Itunes store, watching a previously recorded show on youtube.com, stagedive.com, or even catching a show. Have a listen and see what one local artist is saying. I have a feeling you’ll like it!

Cheers,
Alva

Violet Isle's "i am ivy" is Available at Salem's Harvest Records and Ranch Records for $10 and you can also download it at the iTunes Store and will soon be available at Amazon.

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One Year Strong

Ever since moving down to Salem one year ago, I have been on the hunt. Searching for Salem's music/art community. I've prowled the streets looking for a tune, unique and alluring, that Salem claims as it's own. I have found that through the cracks of Salem's deep concrete walls and streets, oozes something vibrant and pulsing, asking kindly to be seen, heard, embraced. I have been scratching at the walls in a desperate attempt to uncover what it is. I have seen shades here and there in places like the Wednesday and Saturday market, it's hue a cold chilled breathe beating out of local music venues like the Ike Box, Clockworks, and The Space.

I have designed this Blog, really, just to trace my thoughts back to one place, but also to see if it will maybe blossom and take Salem's music/art scene with it into something thriving and alive, something we can gladly embrace and call our own.

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