This week southern California was under a 24 hour warning for a major earthquake. It seems Hunnypot Live! show #351 might be to blame. Hot Tub Johnnie started the night with a set of no "fault" party music. Lauren Reynaldo gave us the shakedown of her musical journey, Roger Street Friedman's seismic rock n roll cracked the pavement, Melanie Taylor made our bodies wave with her dance rock, Michete caused a hip hop landslide with "P" Waves, Breaking Heights gave us tectonic hop n' roll and Tree Machines kept us on their wavelength in their ring of fire. 10-3-16
- J. Gray
A true Los Angeles native, Lauren Reynaldo got her start in music at the age of 18 thanks to a series of right-place, right-time coincidences. She has worked with large catalogs from the likes of Kiss, Marilyn Manson, Jerry Reed and REO Speedwagon, to underground, indie up-and-comers like Moses Sumney and Webster X, all the way to the fast-paced world of production library music.
If you were to drive down a narrow, winding street, in the funky little town of Sea Cliff, New York, you would never expect that there is a world class, state of the art, analog recording studio in the basement of the grey house with the basketball hoop at the end of the driveway. That house belongs to Roger Street Friedman, and that studio in the basement is where he, along with his band and a whole host of special guests (including Amy Helm, Ari Hest and The Masterson’s) are working on the final touches of his new album, Open Road. In fact, there is a lot about Roger Street Friedman that you would not expect in a typical singer-songwriter. Relocated from Brooklyn in 2012, Friedman has made a long circuitous journey, but he’s finally home, ensconced in the studio he dubs “The Playroom,” for its proximity to where his young son and daughter play in the basement of the house he shares with his wife and family.
His latest effort, Open Road, is bold and adventurous, masterfully reflecting a sense of life as an unpredictable and wondrous journey that he strives to embrace fully in his dual roles as artist and family man. These roles inform and inspire his reborn career as a recording artist. “I’m gonna live my life/With all my might/Make the most of everyday… everyday” he sings, as if shouting it to the rafters. The roots of Open Road are steeped in alt-country, folk, blues, R&B and singer-songwriters like Jackson Browne, Cat Stevens, Don Henley and Paul Simon. The 12 songs here contemplate the trials and tribulations of relationships (“Hideaway,” “Tomorrow”), memories of a childhood that no longer exists (“No Place Like Home”), being a father (“A Son Like You”), the loss of a parent (“Gentle Love of a Mother”), the perils of mass-migration (“Better Life”) and going all out to live your life to the fullest (“Shoot the Moon”).
There is something driving Roger Street Friedman, and it’s not money or fame. He writes, produces and plays music because he loves it, and wants to share that feeling with others. With Open Road, Roger Street Friedman continues to prove good things happen to those who wait… and then seize the opportunity.
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Melanie Taylor decided she was going to be a music business success story when she was a little girl dancing to Michael Jackson songs in her home, and she is presently in the process of willing it to be. Awards, chart debuts, high-profile collaborations, accolades and the like are all part of a grand design that she created by sheer force of will. Strong female role models in the music business are peeking out from behind what has held them back all these years. This is happening just in time for Melanie’s rise in the world of pop music. The singer has prepared for her platform through her involvement in organizations such as the P.A.I.N Foundation, 18 for 18 Project Rescue, the Gracie Awards - programs designed to empower women.
It all started with her mother – a single woman who decided she was going to have a child… no boyfriend, no set details of her plan. She spoke her truth into the universe and willed Melanie into being. Later, she built a business empire with Melanie’s step-father through her fortitude. These things taught the budding entertainer some important lessons.
For much of her life, Melanie was the only child of a single mother who was, by all accounts, a wanderer. She found theater provided her with an extension of her family. Melanie says, "I always considered my audiences like my brothers and sisters, since being an only child and moving a lot as a kid, the stage was really my only consistent home". Melanie’s first album's primarily straight pop/dance style is now morphing slightly into her sophomore album's rock-based vibe.” What has stayed the same, is her “feel-good soulful roots as a vocalist" she explains. She has written most of her upcoming album with producer Troy “R8DIO” Johnson, (Jesse McCartney, JLo, Chris Brown, Will Smith,Solange, 2Pac) and plans to release it later this year
Melanie wanted to create a fun, yet empowered, collection of songs, a la that of one of her idols, Alanis Morissette. “I knew all her songs by heart as a kid,” she adds. That kind off forthright, spirited style of songwriting stuck with Melanie and shows up all over her work, worn like a badge of honor.
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Combining venom-filled disses, crass sexual come-ons, and left-field pop culture references with an androgynous gender presentation that is equally inspired by glam rockers, anime villains, and drag queens, rapper and producer Michete is on the fast track to becoming one of hip-hop’s most polarizing and exciting new acts. The dagger-tongued MC is unapologetically queer, delivering punchlines with a genderfluid braggadocio that sets her apart. Drawing influence from a wide range of artists including Kanye West, Peaches, Nicki Minaj, and Kesha, Michete combines a unique lyrical stance and vocal demeanor with chintzy, economic, self-produced beats to create a sound that’s completely unique.
Growing up in Spokane Valley, WA (a city she describes as being a “cesspool of white nonsense”), Michete is a former theater kid who had a natural charisma and an unhealthy obsession with Lady Gaga, honing his performance skills by singing in talent shows, acting in plays, and performing improv comedy all throughout middle and high school. She began dabbling in music around the time she graduated high school in 2010, and in 2014, decided to make a serious commitment to pursuing a career as a rapper. Michete released her debut EP, Cool Tricks, in June of 2015, and received considerable attention and acclaim from journalists and listeners alike, securing a spot opening for recording artist Shamir in Seattle the following September and later appearing on SPIN Magazine’s year-end list of The 50 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2015.
With the foundation set for a successful career in the music business, Michete plans on releasing the follow-up to Cool Tricks this Spring.
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Born on a hundred degree day in the steaming valley of Los Angeles in the summer of 2015. There was no wind, not a single cloud. Just a blinding sun. Like a crystal hole in the never ending sky. At least that's what we remember..." From producer Ozzy Doniz, rapper Zoh and singer Greg Cahn, comes a musical twist of psychedelic sonic showers tangled in trap mixed with velvet rock hooks and grimy soul-baring lyrics called Breaking Heights.
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Following up Wooldridge and bandmate Patrick Aubry’s critically praised debut EP as Tree Machines from early 2015 and the three stand-alone singles coming out in the waning months of the Summer, the band is gearing up for releasing their debut full length album.
After partnering up again with their Producer Mikel Giffin, the band is in the final steps of production for they new album.
“It really is amazing to work alongside Patrick and Mikel,”Wooldridge adds. “Things click so quickly. We feel like we can almost do no wrong creatively, which is an incredible and freeing feeling to have as an artist.”
Tree Machines will also add a few new members to its live act, with plans to play out during breaks in the album recording process.
“It’ll be exciting to fully get back on the road again,” says Wooldridge. “But first we need to get our bearings out in Los Angeles.”
Further explaining the band’s decision to go west, Aubry continues, “Leaving Kansas will probably turn out to be one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. But I needed it – it’s just too comfortable there. I’d be a fool to say that California has anything different, but at least I know that I won’t be stuck in the whirlpool of Midwest comfort and cheap living. At least I’ll know I tried, and if I fail, I can die happy. Plus, the beach is pretty awesome!”
Aubry sums up his outlook on the band’s future simply, saying, “It feels like we’re just getting warmed up. It feels like we’ve got so much more to write.”
Tree Machines debut full length is in the works
Whether you were into leather, lace, or spandex in the 1980's, Sirius XM's Hair Festival had something for everyone that strutted into the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater on Saturday, September 17th. A near-capacity crowd was on hand to pay homage to some of the finest rock and roll bands to ever walk the Sunset Strip and nobody in attendance walked away disappointed. From newcomers on the scene like The Aviators and Electric Hound to heavyweights Vince Neil and Bret Michaels, this year's lineup was one for the ages and surely pleased even the most discerning rock and roll aficionado. On what turned out to be a hot and steamy afternoon, radio host and Sirius XM personality Eddie Trunk enthusiastically kicked off the 2016 event for what would be the last rock festival to ever take place at one of Southern California's most iconic concert venues (which is unfortunately closing down in October after an amazing 35 year run). There was definitely a bit of nostalgia in the air as the show got underway, and this feeling would intensify throughout the day as band after band took center stage for what would turn out to be a an epic event for the ages.
And without further adieu, here's Hunnypot's lightning round recaps of the 22 bands to take the stage at this years Sirius XM's Hair Nation:
Electric Hound - Runner up of Battle of the Bands and Festival Stage opener. These guys absolutely blew up the stage - wish more were there to see these guys crush it!
Odin - Jeff Duncan's guitar work and Randy O's vocals kicked some serious ass Saturday afternoon - one of my favorite performances from the Festival Stage.
Gabbie Rae - Only 18 years old and already taking the world by storm - Gabbie's voice was simply angelic. The runway is long for this talented vocalist.
Circus of Power - This band is so tight and played their F'n hearts out on Saturday afternoon, giving everyone in attendance a massive heart attack.
Bang Tango - Always been a huge fan of Joe Lesté's vocal power and he did not disappoint - rock solid performance.
Pretty Boy Floyd - Steve Summers and company's brand of rock and roll set the night on fire in front of a packed crowd - absolutely loved this band.
La Guns' Phil Lewis and Tracii Guns - How were these guys not on the Main Stage this year? Phil and Tracii were downright amazing!
The Aviators - Well deserved win at Battle of the Bands and the Main Stage opener. August Young captivated the crowd with his crisp vocals and catchy lyrics. Check these guys out when you can, well worth the price of admission.
Tuff - Stevie Rachelle and Todd Chaisson were solid with a well though out set of Tuff classics. "American Hair Band" sounded amazing live and was just what the doctor ordered to fire up the VIP section down front.
Vain - I remember catching these guys down on the Sunset Strip in the early 90's and was so excited to see them again after all these years. When Davy Vain ripped into "Beat the Bullet" on Saturday, it was unadulterated badassery.
Britny Fox - It doesn't get better than Chris Sanders hitting the stage and immediately smashing up two perfectly healthy guitars before the show even starts. Tommy Paris was vocally spot on during their 20-minute set, and Sanders, Childers, and Dee rocked all of the Britny Fox classics. Regardless of length, it was one of my favorite sets of the day.
Junkyard - It was evident from the first note that these guys absolutely love playing together - amazing chemistry on stage! Took me way back to hear the 1989 classic "Simple Man". David Roach and the boys sounded fantastic and were definitely a crowd favorite on Saturday.
Enuff Z'Nuff - Couldn't wait for Chip Z'Nuff and crew to hit the stage and did so in fine flamboyant fashion w/ signature pink glasses! This was a totally fun set that had many of the Hair Nation faithful out of their chairs and singing along to classics such as “Fly High Michelle” and “High on a New Thing.” These guys still know how to rock it after all these years.
BulletBoys - Marq Torien may be one all-time favorite vocalists from the 80's. I was hoping he would be able to bring it on Saturday and this guy comes out and hits a bases loaded home run - absolutely killed it! Nick, Chad, and Shawn were spot on the entire set and really helped reaffirm my firm belief that rock and roll is not dead.
Vixen - This all female band has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember and was stoked to learn they were going to be performing at the Hair Nation festival this year. Janet, Roxy, Share, and Gina were simply stunning and far-exceeded any expectations I had coming into my first Vixen show. It was a powerful performance that took it to a whole never level as the sun began to set in sunny Southern California. These ladies are so talented and knew what buttons to push to energize the Hair Nation faithful.
Faster Pussycat - There couldn't have a more fitting way to start a Faster Pussycat show than for Taime Downe to walk out on stage with a lit cigarette in one hand and a cold Budweiser in the other. After toasting the crowd, he launched into a raucous 30-minute covering classics such as "Slip of the Tongue", "House of Pain", and "Bathroom Wall". It was evident that the self-proclaimed kings of sleaze kicked it up a notch for their final appearance at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater, with many in attendance calling this one of their best performances in years. Hats off to Taime, Ace, Danny, Xristian, and Chad for bringing down the house on Saturday afternoon.
Lita Ford - There many be no better way to describe Lita's performance other than spectacular. She not only rocked the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater to its core, she did so in a way that cemented her legacy as one of the very best to perform on its hollowed stage. From "Gotta Let Go" to "Kiss Me deadly" (and everything in between), fans were captivated throughout the entire set and were begging for more when the dust had settled. Happy Birthday Lita!
Slaughter - As the sun began to set over the Pacific, Mark Slaughter and company took center stage and cranked up the intensity to 11 for what would be one of the most musically solid performances of the evening. Jeff Blando, Dana Strum, and Zoltan Chaney were absolutely on fire during a jam packed set that featured an array of their greatest hits since the bands inception in 1990. From a touching version of "Fly to the Angels" (with Irvine Meadows completely lit up with cell-phones) to "Up All Night", Slaughter's performance raised the Hair Nation bar to a whole new level.
Yngwie Malmsteen - Since he first hit the scene in 1982, Yngwie Malmsteen has been considered by many to be one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His classical roots pay homage to some of the most brilliant composers of all time, and it comes across in a guitar style that is often copied but never truly replicated. Yngwie's performance on Saturday evening was an extension of that brilliance and was nothing short of spectacular. From classics such as "Rising Force" and "Heaven Tonight" to a Bach cover "Badinerie", Malmsteen took Irvine Meadows on a magical journey that left nothing (and everything) to the imagination. Well done Maestro!
Kix - I think Kix is arguably one of the coolest bands on the planet. Fronted by the incomprable Steve Whitman, this band never fails to entertain its fans with cool stories, animated stage antics, and most importantly amazing music. Saturday night was no exception. From classics like "Wheels in Motion" to "Blow my Fuse", Kix had everyone out of their seat singing and dancing with one of the best showman in all rock and roll. As always, Drummer Jimmy Chalfant, Guitarists Ronnie Younkins and Brian Forsythe, and Bassist Mark Schenker were as technically solid and never missed a beat the entire set - these guys kick-ass. My only complaint with Kix is that they don't visit the West Coast often enough and seeing them live is a rarity for most. I hope that changes down the road!
Bret Michaels - When you think of hair bands, one immediately thinks of Bret Michaels as the quintessential glam rocker of the 80's. His stage presence as the frontman for Poison was unrivaled with an amazing 30 year career that produced 6 top-ten singles and album sales that eclipsed the 45-million mark worldwide. On Saturday night, Bret flew solo for what was to be one of the best performances of the evening. The setlist was a simple selection of Poison classics and each song sounded downright awesome. From "Talk Dirty to Me" to "Every Rose Has It's Thorn", Bret fully engaged the capacity crowd and ensured everyone was having a good time. There was even a cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama", a crowd favorite for sure. My favorite moment of the set was when Bret dedicated "Every Rose Has It's Thorn" to all of our brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. It was a touching moment for sure that captured the hearts of everyone in attendance (especially the veterans). Respect.
Vince Neil - As Vince's band walked out on stage around 10pm, many who don't follow him regularly may have thought that there was some type of mix-up when Jeff Blando, Dana Strum, and Zoltan Chaney cranked up opener "Dr. Feelgood". Yes, these are the guys from Slaughter. But what most do not know is that they are also members of his solo band and have they been touring together for years killing Vince's solo work as well as the Motley Crue classics. After thanking the crowd for attending Hair Nation this year, Vince and company launched into a power packed set to cap off an already amazing day of rock and roll. Hits such as "Looks That Kill", "Girls, Girls, Girls", and "Home Sweet Home" were powerful reminders of the significant impact both Vince and Motley Crue have made on the music scene to date. Led Zeppelin fans in the house were treated to a solid cover of "Whole Lotta Love" by the one and only Jeff Blando. Its sometimes hard to do Zeppelin justice and this guy killed it! Vince and company ended their set with "Wild Side" off of their 1987 album Dr. Feelgood, and it sounded every bit as good as it was when first released almost 30 years ago. I gotta say, this band sounded tight and was on the money all night long and the perfect choice to headline this years Hair Nation Festival.
Overall, the 2016 Sirius XM's Hair Nation Festival will go down in history as one of the coolest events to ever rock the Irvine Meadows Amphitheater. From The Aviators to Vince Neil, there was something for everyone at this years show. The wide range of bands failed to disappoint the near-capacity crowd and left everyone wanting more as the show wound to a close. Although this years festival is finally in the books, it was great to hear from radio personality (and event MC) Eddie Trunk that this event was in fact the "First Annual Sirius XM Hair Nation Festival". Although the venue will obviously have to change due to the closing of Irvine Meadows, its promising to know that this event will live on as a testament to the kick-ass in-your-face music we all know and love. Until next time party people..........
Stay Frosty and Rock On!
“JackEL”, has been turning heads with his music since the very young of age of 14. JackEL began his DJ career early, spinning in his home town of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. He soon began performing in different cities internationally to build his brand, including “The March Madness Festival” in Atlanta GA; “The Knitting Factory” in Boise, ID; “Tao Beach Club” in Busan, South Korea; “The Revolution Lounge”, “Dirty Blondes”, “Club 21”, “Three Kings Hookah Lounge”, “Tao Beach” and “Ultra Violet” in Las Vegas, NV; “Eccles Conference Center” in Ogden, UT; “The Epicenter” in San Diego, CA; “Club Red” in Tempe, AZ and “Club Congress” in Tuscon, AZ.
As a Producer, he collaborated with well-known Rapper MIMS at the age of 15 on the track “Too Young To Die”, and continues to collaborate with MIMS, who is known for the hit singles “This Is Why I’m Hot” and “Move If You Wanna”. As a DJ he performed in Las Vegas at “Dirty Blondes” in Planet Hollywood. At 16 JackEL moved to Vegas to pursue his musical career. He soon met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and because of his Producer and DJ skills, was invited to be the opening act for them at the “March Madness Festival” in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after, JackEL began an another high profile collaboration with Three Six Mafia member DJ Paul and the two artists have been working on the completion of DJ Paul’s upcoming EDM album.
JackEL has also performed international gigs, playing for two standing room only crowds at “Tao Beach Club” & “Club Kudeta” in Busan, South Korea. After finishing his Canadian Tour of Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC, JackEL began working with DJ Fame, voted ‘The Best Nightclub DJ of Las Vegas 2014’ by the Las Vegas Review Journal and the resident DJ for Hip Hop artist Dizzy Wright, who JackEL also produces original music for. 2015 JackEL Headlined at Las Vegas Hemp Festival along side “Chanel West Coast, Tommy Chong, Afroman & also Dizzy Wright”. Meanwhile traveling back and forth to Jamaica to finish his Smooth Jazz EP titled “Breathe Easy”, featuring Grammy Award Recipient Skip Martin. In 2016 JackEL headlined at “The Joint” inside the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. Also established his Record Label/Artist Collective “FVYDID” who’s members continuously tour internationally.
With so much already accomplished at such a young age, JackELs future is very bright, and contains much more anticipated high quality art.
Unlike Brangelina Hunnypot Live! would never break up with you in the tabloids. Monday night we filed for separation from a droll life and brought entertainment to the masses
Camryn took custody of our ears and hearts (she also wore a cool Queen shirt), Ediblehead fed our faces with a mediation of disco punk, Pega5u5 took flight and took alimony from listeners, Jackel and guests were reconcilable to the audience and Hot Tub Johnnie presided over the whole night with sick beats. 9-19-16
Fueled by the rush of adrenaline that comes from performing live, 17-year-old singer/songwriter Camryn showcases her siren-like voice and straight-talking lyrics with a spunky blend of guitar-driven rock and pop. She began putting her songs on YouTube in 2010 and released a series of independent singles, including 2013's "Lovesick," which earned Camryn the distinction of becoming the youngest indie act to chart a song in the Billboard Top 40 since LeAnn Rimes in 1997. She developed a loyal fan base while performing in front of hundreds of thousands of people during her extensive worldwide touring, including solo shows and opening European and U.S. tours for the likes of One Direction and Cody Simpson.
Now, Camryn returns with a new 5-song EP entitled, New Dynasty. Full of in-your-face vocals, crunchy guitars and epic choruses, the EP co-written by Camryn showcases her evolution into an artist that has not only found her voice, but her power. As the title suggests, there is a new generation poised to break out into the world and Camryn's ready to make her own bold statement.
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The mind-bending, soulfully electro, punk-house-pop of Ediblehead is the culmination of a transformative journey for two musicians: the critically acclaimed Los Angeleno artist Robby Rockit, and the prodigiously multi-talented chanteuse Eva Zeva. The winding path to forming Ediblehead helped both musicians connect to the wellspring of their creativity. The result is infectiously catchy debut album, Animal Lick Stick.
Robby Rockit was the founding member of the lauded space rock band West Indian Girl, which was signed to tastemaking electronic and dance label Astralwerks (Primal Scream, Chemical Brothers, Hot Chip). Eva Zeva was a lifelong singer who kept her vocal talents tucked behind a veil of shyness while she explored fashion and the fine arts. They met at a private party gig West Indian Girl was playing in L.A., and Rockit felt an immediate karmic connection with Eva. The two found themselves reinventing West Indian Girl for that group's third and final album Shangri-La.
Ediblehead was formed to bring music that is bright, vivacious, and playfully dynamic. "There is a childlike energy that informs what we do, it's about letting go and having fun, "describes Eva Zeva. She and Rockit lead us through the twelve tracks on Animal Lick Stick as zany toastmasters with a multitude of techno genres, crazy pop hooks, and guitars meshed with electronica. The album was engineered, produced, and mixed by mastermind Robby at his home studio in Los Angeles, with additional work done at the West Hollywood studio of esteemed producer Matt Sorum (Guns and Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult), assisted by producer/engineer Francis O' Reilly.
Ediblehead performs as a five-piece band with full visual effects and original, out-or-this world costuming to mesmerize fans. "Ediblehead is like a beat-infused candy-colored rainbow with a message of self-belief," says Robby Rockit. "If you let go of fear and doubt, all doors will open up."
With their respective careers, the two brothers, Mr. Rogers and Pharroh had already established a dedicated fanbase. Mr. Rogers over the past few years became a staple in California's electronic music scene, playing festivals (such as headlining slots at Lucidity, Stilldream, and Raindance) all around the area. On the other side of the spectrum is Pharroh, who has made his roundabouts in the underground hip-hop circuit. He's shared the stage with GZA and has gone on to score the soundtrack for the Afro Samurai video game and collaborate with TalibKweli. Eager to connect with a larger audience, they came together and fused their fanbases to deliver PEGA5U5. Their freshman LP The Flock, which featured collaborations with The Fungineers, Joanna, Cellojoe, and more, established a unique sound that left listeners craving new releases. With their hiatus coming to an end, make sure to follow them on their social media links below to keep up with the duo.
“JackEL”, has been turning heads with his music since the very young of age of 14. JackEL began his DJ career early, spinning in his home town of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. He soon began performing in different cities internationally to build his brand, including “The March Madness Festival” in Atlanta GA; “The Knitting Factory” in Boise, ID; “Tao Beach Club” in Busan, South Korea; “The Revolution Lounge”, “Dirty Blondes”, “Club 21”, “Three Kings Hookah Lounge”, “Tao Beach” and “Ultra Violet” in Las Vegas, NV; “Eccles Conference Center” in Ogden, UT; “The Epicenter” in San Diego, CA; “Club Red” in Tempe, AZ and “Club Congress” in Tuscon, AZ.
As a Producer, he collaborated with well-known Rapper MIMS at the age of 15 on the track “Too Young To Die”, and continues to collaborate with MIMS, who is known for the hit singles “This Is Why I’m Hot” and “Move If You Wanna”. As a DJ he performed in Las Vegas at “Dirty Blondes” in Planet Hollywood. At 16 JackEL moved to Vegas to pursue his musical career. He soon met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, and because of his Producer and DJ skills, was invited to be the opening act for them at the “March Madness Festival” in Atlanta, Georgia. Soon after, JackEL began an another high profile collaboration with Three Six Mafia member DJ Paul and the two artists have been working on the completion of DJ Paul’s upcoming EDM album.
JackEL has also performed international gigs, playing for two standing room only crowds at “Tao Beach Club” & “Club Kudeta” in Busan, South Korea. After finishing his Canadian Tour of Edmonton, AB and Vancouver, BC, JackEL began working with DJ Fame, voted ‘The Best Nightclub DJ of Las Vegas 2014’ by the Las Vegas Review Journal and the resident DJ for Hip Hop artist Dizzy Wright, who JackEL also produces original music for. 2015 JackEL Headlined at Las Vegas Hemp Festival along side “Chanel West Coast, Tommy Chong, Afroman & also Dizzy Wright”. Meanwhile traveling back and forth to Jamaica to finish his Smooth Jazz EP titled “Breathe Easy”, featuring Grammy Award Recipient Skip Martin. In 2016 JackEL headlined at “The Joint” inside the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. Also established his Record Label/Artist Collective “FVYDID” who’s members continuously tour internationally.
With so much already accomplished at such a young age, JackELs future is very bright, and contains much more anticipated high quality art.
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ZaZa has been active in the music industry since the age of 14 and has headlined and hosted numerous shows around the U.S., including her own west coast House of Blues tour. She has written and released many songs both as a solo artist and as half of the former rap/pop duo Cash and ZaZa. Her passion for songwriting and music doesn’t stop at her own performing. In addition to writing for herself, ZaZa has written successful songs for many reality tv personalities including Asia Monet Ray from Lifetime’s Raising Asia and Toddlers and Tiaras star Eden Wood.
She has also made her way into the commercial modeling world, having been a spokesmodel for Epilator Central, Trailer Girlz TV, and more. Recently, she started hosting her own entertainment and music talk show on WCOBM network Las Vegas.
JackEL and ZaZa will perform the new single "Just Fine".
Sabotage used to be a legitimate workforce negotiation tactic. Hunnypot Live! unleashes this tactic every other week, so listen up y'all. Hot Tub Johnnie started by unionizing us with a music set of workforce rhythm and melody. Our industry guest Michael Levine laid out the hard truths of upper management and the workers in music. Cassie Holt and the Lost Souls punched our clocks with sweet rock n roll music, Grand Canyon provided an Americana vacation out west, Cloudtalk gave us a breakroom of clear sky pop music and Kosha Dillz makes his performances feel like a national holiday. 9-5-16
- J.Gray
Michael Levine has been widely regarded as one of the world's premier branding and media expert for the last thirty years. He has represented a record breaking 58 Academy Award winners, 34 Grammy Award winners, and 43 New York Times best-sellers, authored 19 books (including 5 best sellers such as "Broken Windows, Broken Business" and "Guerrilla P.R."), and appeared on countless TV shows as a media expert including regular slots on "Good Morning, America" and "The Today Show" for the last 20 years. His work has also included media council to former presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Born with dyslexia, Levine is also the only person without a college degree to lecture at both Harvard and Oxford University. According to his success as a publicist, Michael Levine has also become a sought after public speaker. And through his career at Levine Communications Office (LCO) he represented many celebrity clients including David Bowie, Sandra Bullock, Michael J. Fox, Demi Moore, Ozzy Osbourne, Prince and Barbra Streisand among many others. Levine even represented the King of Pop Michael Jackson in 93 & 94'!
Cassie Holt and The Lost Souls originally formed in 2013.
Front woman Cassie Holt is a Dallas native who has been singing/songwriting for more than a decade. She started playing open mics in high school, spent many years writing and singing hooks for local hip hop artists, and most recently grew her sound with an amazingly talented group of musicians. Together they create an atmosphere that is unmatched. The chemistry on stage between them is evident and it overflows to the audience. Holt’s sultry vocals fill the room and warm your insides. Her powerful belts grab your attention as the bands incredibly tight performance keeps it. Each member comes from a different style background, adding variety and uniqueness to their sound. Holt’s lyrics have a mature rawness to them that so much modern music lacks, touching on everything from domestic violence to heartbreak. The groups almost comical banter is sometimes turned into impromptu songs on stage. The group has grown together over the last year and hopes to soon reach every household here, and ultimately over seas. Cassie Holt and the Lost Souls have had performances on live television and they have performed at an array of venues including the Dallas Museum of Art, Fair Park in Dallas, the Dallas Arts District's Annual Fall Block Party, and the Dallas Whiskey Festival...and they continue to entertain regularly at a number of various clubs, festivals, weddings, and events.
Grand Canyon is a rock n roll band out of Los Angeles, CA including Casey Shea (vocals and guitar), Jillette Johnson (vocals and keys), Joe Guese (guitar), Adam Popick (bass), Tom Polce (drums), and Matt Pynn (guitar and pedal steel). Formerly all east coasters, the band members migrated to Los Angeles, and created Grand Canyon on the east side of town in 2015.
WHO - CloudTalk is a four member alternative pop-rock band from Northern Los Angeles, who have begun to get some notice on the local scene (105,000+ followers on Vine and counting). With guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocal harmonies, TJ, Gabe, and Jordan are ready to bring their unique chemistry to any size venue.
SOUND - By combining a knack for catchy melodies (think Maroon 5 or One Republic), chasing a big sound quality (think Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, fun.) and infusing a little rock edge (a la Killers, Temper Trap, Neon Trees), you’ll get some idea of the recipe for success that CloudTalk is ready to take to the masses. They also draw inspiration from other artists, and it’s easy to imagine them touring with bands as diverse as Young The Giant, Bastille, Two Door Cinema Club, Foster The People, New Politics, the Naked and Famous, Walk the Moon, the 1975, Passion Pit and The Neighborhood.
WHAT’S NEXT - Despite wearing their various influences on their sleeve, CloudTalk has a sound that is all its own, thanks in part to TJ’s distinct lead vocals and a gift for crafting hooks that stay with you after the final note lingers. With two full album’s worth of material they can play gigs of various lengths and are ready to explode onto the music scene in a big way.
Rami Matan Even-Esh (??????: ??? ??? ???-??), better known by his stage name Kosha Dillz, is an American rapper and world class improv artist that has recieved major attention for his dedication to success. He has played every kind of gig, ranging from shows with Rza of the Wu Tang Clan and Matisyahu, to the Legendary Yo Gabba Gabba childrens show. He is most known for his ability to improv in front of thousands of people an rap in hebrew and spanish combined.
The Olympics are over but Hunnypot Live! keeps delivering winning gold medal music.
Monday night was off to the races with a Hot Tub Johnny DJ set that vaulted our poles and and volleyed our balls. The marathon relay continued with our guest DJ Yvette Metoyer (SuperMusicVision) DJ set that brought in gold, silver and even bronze feels. Bevin Hamilton represented the "country" of Americana for a freestyle event, there was no equestrian that Lyrical Groove got all our hooves dancing, Madeline Spooner swung it out of the park with her electronic flavor sounds and Hot Sauce Holiday was so busy having fun and entertaining they forgot there was any competition. 8-22-16
-J. Gray
Yvette Metoyer grew up in sunny Southern California and spent many countless hours scoring life’s memories by making mixtapes (yes, tapes) for her high school and college friends. Inspired by her love of music and TV at an early age, she pursued a career in television production after having graduated from Cal State Long Beach.
After having worked on several successful shows, including HBO’s Big Love, a lengthy WGA writers’ strike shut down all LA productions, and Yvette decided to take a music supervision extension course at UCLA, where she met one of the top music supervisors in the game, Thomas Golubic´. A one year apprenticeship with Thomas’ company SuperMusicVision blossomed into a nearly ten year working relationship with exciting collaborations on multiple film & TV projects, including the Emmy award winning AMC series Breaking Bad, the zombie apocalypse ratings juggernaut The Walking Dead, the delightfully smart and charming Breaking Bad prequel, Better Call Saul, the Cinemax thriller series Outcast, and the witty comedic drama series Grace & Frankie. Yvette has recently been promoted as co-music supervisor on the critically acclaimed AMC series Halt and Catch Fire and is sure to continue expanding on her impressive resume.
Bevin is an Alternative Rock Artist pinning her genre as 'American Gothic Rock'. She is a solo Artist/Songwriter residing in the city of angels, both dark and light. Her background in music stems from classical to classic rock, and is evident in her songs. She has toured, written and/or worked with the likes of Motley Crue, Tim Armstrong, and Jimmy Cliff. She has honed her songwriting skills with many Nashville writers and Artists and continues to expand and push through music stereotypes and barriers.
Her songs explore the inner and outer landscapes of the American Dream.... How we see the world and how the world sees us. The characters that populate her songs are indeed ghosts and fringe dwellers and plucky heroines. The fighters, dreamers, Rebels, Visionaries... In her creative vision all these psychological archetypes and spiritual aspects of our selves get to be unleashed, and heard.
Her EP “Filters and Frames” was produced in Los Angeles by world renowned Producer, Mixer and Songwriter James Michael. James has produced records from artists such as Motley Crue, Scorpions and Papa Roach and has had hits with Kelly Clarkson and James Durbin to Meatloaf. He is also the Lead singer of the band Sixx: AM.
The Lyrical Groove is a band that combines cohesively crafted spoken word and live instrumentation to inspire and entertain. With a musical style that balances Jazz, Hip Hop, Blues, R&B, Gospel, and Soul, The Lyrical Groove infuses a potent message with a social consciousness and spiritual awareness that sings to your humanity and moves your soul.
The Lyrical Groove was formed under the motivation of spoken word artist, Kendrick Dial, to have live music accompany his performance of poetry. The pursuit of collaboration then began with Louisiana born friend and drummer, Glenn “GK” Sanders and keyboardist, Mike Smith. The group officially formed in November 2010, after a gig at the Ruby Room in San Diego, CA. An overwhelming, affirming crowd response cemented in the group’s minds what their hearts were warming up to. In July 2011, the band was joined by musical Bay Area native guitarist, Mike “Token” Benedetto, Jacob “Cubby” Miranda on bass and their ultra-talented vocalist Brisa Lauren in 2012.
The Lyrical Groove just released their debut full-length album, Spoken Soul: Music For Life, which is a catalogue of spoken words and songs that mirror the genres that inspire the band. The Lyrical Groove has been one of San Diego’s hardest working bands over the last 4 years. If you are a lover of musicianship, lyrical inspiration, and wit accompanied by an awe-inspiring live performance, then Lyrical Groove is the band for you. Music is one of the most barrier-bridging elements of life. Lyrical Groove is a band that embodies that sentiment.
The Lyrical Groove as performed all over San Diego, CA at a collage of events ranging from fund-raisers, church and youth programs, music concerts, wine tastings, to numerous events/venues such as the San Diego IndieFest, Anthology, Humphrey’s Backstage Lounge, Winston’s, and The House of Blues.
Madeline Spooner is an experimental electronic pop artist based out of Los Angeles. Her latest EP, NAUTILUS, is an amalgamation of organic and electronic instrumentation that perfectly frames her spellbinding vocals.
From her roots as a Midwestern native, Madeline has married her early acoustic storytelling with her affection for electronic music. She draws inspiration from the non-standard pop sensibilities of artists like Pink Floyd, Peter Gabriel, and The Doors as well as the esoteric tendencies of Coco Rosie, The Knife and Kate Bush.
Chris Douridas of KCRW first premiered Madeline on the airwaves on his Saturday radio show. Subsequently, Madeline was invited to a successful May residency at the Satellite, where she released her first single from NAUTILUS. Respected music columnist Kevin Bronson (BuzzbandsLA) first debuted the single on KCSN. He wrote:
"Had to Let It Go, a dreamy communiqué about shucking the weight of the world, embodies the mystical themes on the EP. With its airy flourishes and cinematic sweep, [it] has the same je ne sais quoi as the more experimental work of Marina and the Diamonds. It’s good for letting go.”
Quirky curio instruments combine with analogue synths in a lush panoramic landscape, where Spooner endeavors to maintain a soulfulness in her rich and expansive contemporary sound. Madeline’s co-producer and collaborator, Ethan Allen (Tricky, Ben Harper, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Patty Griffin) shares these same sentiments, resulting in a cohesive vision for inspired sonics and thought-provoking lyrics.
As a two-time first place award winner for the American Songwriting Awards, executive director Joseph Paulos highly lauded her by writing, “Madeline’s vibrant pop sound with psychedelic twists and turns keep listeners wanting more. We believe she is going to redefine the independent music scene.”
NAUTILUS will be available on July 31st on www.madelinespooner.bandcamp.com, www.madelinespooner.com, iTunes and all major digital retailers.
Hot Sauce Holiday is for everyone that wants to kick over their office desks and start dancing. We are for the eccentric outsiders, the burners, and the lovers. Join us in taking on the banality of convention.
Hot Sauce Holiday is a four piece cabaret rock band from Los Angeles. Their live shows emphasize crowd participation and a great deal of improv. Bongo-solos, skits, poetry, and dance numbers have been known to break out. They have been known to feature burlesque dancers, hula hoop artists, and scandalous routines involving Playboy playmates. Genre-wise the sound varies from song to song drawing influence from 60's psychedelic and folk, to early punk, 80's electro, disco, and even a bit of barbershop. The song lyrics are surreal and witty with every band member trading off on vocals or singing in harmonies. In addition to over 20 originals the band has a variety of party cover songs they are able to play ranging from George Michael to Motorhead.
So leave the outside world behind you for a couple hours and come experience the originality, joy, and chaos that is Hot Sauce Holiday. Hunnypot Approved good time guarantee!
Madeline Spooner delivers her hauntingly beautiful vocals over top of experimental electronic music on the live video for her song "Had To Let It Go". Coming from a small town in the midwest, she has adapted her background for acoustic storytelling into a mixture of electronic and organic instrumentation.
As a two-time first place award winner for the American Songwriting Awards, executive director Joseph Paulos highly lauded her by writing, “Madeline’s vibrant pop sound with psychedelic twists and turns keep listeners wanting more. We believe she is going to redefine the independent music scene.”
Madeline will be performing at Hunnypot Live on August 22, 2016 at the Mint. 7pm all ages and free!
It happens to the best of us: we hear an awesome song at a party, dance the whole time, and then wake up the next morning and completely forget what it was called. Well, we have a solution. Just for you, we have made a Spotify playlist of all our best party tunes from 2016. Whether you're trying to find a song you heard at a Hunnypot Dance Party or just want our recommendations for some great upbeat tunes, we've got you covered.
We'll start Posting 2017 playlist soon, give us a follow!
Thanks, Obama!
Reuben Sears can’t stop telling people about music he loves. It started with mix-tapes for girlfriends in high school, transitioned into planning and DJ’ing wedding receptions, and finally landed him a gig as a music supervisor at Buddha Jones for movie, tv and video game trailers. He has worked on hundreds of campaigns over his 5 years at Buddha Jones including Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates, Bloodline, and Far Cry: Primal. In addition to theatrical campaigns, Reuben also co-music supervised the Blu-Ray creative content for the Warner Brothers films Man of Steel and Gravity. In 2014, he got to moonlight as Music Consultant on the independent film, The One I Love. Reuben loves Karaoke, baseball, car stereos and chocolate milk.
Ora The Molecule is a music collaboration between a Norwegian born singer songwriter and a Japanese born electronica producer. The band consist of 5 members, Henry on Saxophone, JJ on trumpet, Henry on drums, Nora vocal and keyboard and Ichiro on bass. They have released one EP and are currently in process of recording the first album
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Hailing from the North of England, Jennie Chapman currently resides in Los Angeles, California, consumed by Wanderlust.
Jennie’s aim is to produce only the purest, most honest form of expression. Raised by a singer and a music management mogul, her influence is a mix of California folk and deep English powerhouse, drawing comparisons of Joan Baez, Adele and Lisa Hannigan. She creates songs from the heart, never failing to leave a crowd silent.
Despite the ominous name, Los Angeles band Bloody Death Skull is fiendishly adorable. Swirling together electrified ukulele, childrens toys, sound effects, and instruments over the classic chord structures that launched early rock and soul, BDS makes fun music rooted in the 50s & 60s with a punk mentality and surreal storytelling lyrics that (sweetly) break some taboos. Backed by a band that ranges from three to twelve members, Daiana Feuer sings about love, day dreams, the cosmos, animals, television, dead things, bad things, cute things, and being stuck in the mind of a teenager forever. Imagine The Shirelles meets Roky Erickson on a playground in outer space.
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The Absurd was founded in Los Angeles, 2015, by Detroit troubadours Ben Foerg and Josh Loney under the belief that the most sure-fire way to financial success is through the currently booming music industry.
Under the name Ben Foerg & The Absurd, the duo came to Los Angeles in search of success and prosperity, instead finding poverty, loneliness and desolation. Just when all seemed bleak, a light at the end of the tunnel poked through and from it emerged disillusioned ex-Mormon drummer Colin Jensen. It was from this brew of contrarian personalities that The Absurd was born.
Though they steadfastly believe that genre distinctions are a false creation of the white male patriarchy, critics have described The Absurd as a psychedelic, heavy and melodic rock band that "makes you want to drop something heavy." Fans have described the band by saying "imagine that Pearl Jam and Bob Dylan had a millennial lovechild."
When asked how they would describe themselves, The Absurd was unavailable for comment.
Since their inception in late 2015 and the release of "The Trigger Happy EP" earlier this year, The Absurd have quickly risen from playing the darkest corners of the city's bar scene to some of the premier venues in Los Angeles and beyond. With an undying love of music, an unwavering skepticism of nearly everything and an unparalleled (and possibly unhealthy) ambition, The Absurd is rapidly becoming an LA staple worth raising a glass to.
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The Slit is a fierce blend of aggression and angst packaged neatly in nuggets of throttling guitar rock; a tumultuous, pummeling titan, equal parts Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, with a psychedelic metal tinge and punk tendencies. Their tracks are exceptional, but you have to like heavy, grinding rock to appreciate it the whole way through.
The Slit is a band that combines elements of classic rock, metal, punk, grunge and psychedelia into a very unique style. They define what it means to fire on all cylinders all throughout their songs. But whether opting for maximum aggression or pulling back on the reigns a bit and dropping in an infectious melody, you would be hard-pressed to find a single moment of weakness.
Sienna Jackson is Director of Music Film & Television at The Weinstein Company and an LA native with a background in journalism and national security policy. At Weinstein, Sienna is in charge of creative development and branding of The Weinstein Company Music Catalog for global one-stop synch, A&R and soundtrack development, government affairs and intellectual property policy, music administration and clearance for film and television, creative marketing solutions, venture partnerships, and in-house music supervision.
The Weinstein Company (TWC) is a multimedia production and distribution company launched in October 2005 by Bob and Harvey Weinstein, the brothers who founded Miramax Films in 1979. TWC also encompasses Dimension Films, the genre label founded in 1993 by Bob Weinstein. During Harvey and Bob’s tenure at Miramax and TWC, they have received 341 Oscar nominations and won 81 Academy Awards.
Since 2005, TWC and Dimension Films have released such films as VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA; THE READER; INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS; SCRE4M; SPY KIDS: THE KING’S SPEECH; UNDEFEATED; THE ARTIST; THE MASTER; SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK; DJANGO UNCHAINED; SCARY MOVIE 5; LEE DANIELS’ THE BUTLER; PHILOMENA; THE IMITATION GAME; PADDINGTON and WOMAN IN GOLD. Upcoming releases include MACBETH, CAROL and THE HATEFUL EIGHT.
KLEZ has received favorable coverage by the media and has been featured on Action News TV with his producer and writing collaborator, Roger Gisborne and invited to appear in several high profile engagements, including performances and/or appearances on NPR station, KCHO and KHSL-TV. Per Marc Blaine, KHSL-TV Reporter, "John Klezmer is a talented singer-songwriter on the cusp of making his mark in the music industry. I heard him perform for the first time while covering the story of the making of his original holiday song, now in 2016 KLEZ projects a cool vibe on his debut single "Loaded Gun" along with his soulful voice the song captures your attention immediately."
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Halo Circus is an unclassifiable band described by its star singer, Allison Iraheta, as creating “anthems for introverts” – songs that reach deep into the places we seldom talk about and roll them out in unforgettable music. Unlike most modern bands, Halo Circus spent three years developing their sound in front of live audiences and re-recorded their entire debut album when it failed to live up to their own expectations. Their live shows developed such a reputation that The Grammys asked them to headline their first-ever local Los Angeles showcase, which led to Halo Circus being asked to play The Grammys “Women Who Rock – Festival At Sea” with Heart, Emmylou Harris, and other iconic female singers, which led to John Taylor from Duran Duran calling them “The best live band in the USA,” which led to a very successful four-week Friday night residency at the prestigious Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles, which led to incredible press, and most recently Halo Circus curated and headlined their own event, called “Say It Loud! A Night of Cultural Disruption,” at the legendary Troubadour to a packed house and rousing reviews. Vents Magazine called the evening “transformative,” and claimed that Halo Circus “embraced the future of rock music.”
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A sixth-generation San Francisco native, award winning singer-songwriter essence has been immersed in art and music since childhood. And yes, her birth name really is ‘essence’ – she was raised by quintessential flower children, her parents being two free spirited bohemian artists from the Haight-Ashbury ‘Summer of Love.’ In addition to winning the Grand Prize in the National Lilith Fair Talent Search, and the Grand Prize for the Great American Song Contest, essence has made 4 CDs on both independent and major labels, and toured nationally opening for Jason Mraz, Tom Petty, Sarah McLachlan, Natalie Merchant, Chrissie Hynde, Steve Miller, Pat Benetar, and Linda Perry. Her sound nods to songwriting legends like Tom Petty and Lucinda Williams. In addition to writing folk/americana, pop, and rock songs, essence expanded her repertoire by creating a collection of charming, catchy tunes inspired by her son that turned out to have a life of their own and have become a favorite for parents and children alike nationwide. essence's spirited children's album 'A Dog Named Moo' was entirely funded by loyal fans on Kickstarter, named 'Top Album of The Year' by Daily Candy, and picked up and released by My Kazoo/ Universal Music. essence has performed for audiences ranging from 8 to 80,000, in venues from New York's Bowery Ballroom to The Los Angeles Rose Bowl, to San Francisco's Fillmore Auditorium. essence's recordings have been placed in major network television shows and films, and she has received national radio play and critical acclaim in publications ranging from The San Francisco Chronicle, Acoustic Guitar Player Magazine, and Billboard Magazine. Additional essence trivia includes her being the voice of 'Barbie' for several national commercials. essence's soon to be released 5th album is for the grown up set, and is a return to her organic musical roots. Entitled "Black Wings" this new record is a collection of essence's most raw and personal songs to date.
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HORSES HEAVENHorses Heaven is music that tells a traveling love story. It is a melodic description of time spent together and a documentation of adventures that inspire by taking the listener on a sweet, soulful, and honest journey. Bijou Choder and Analise Lofaro mix their words and voices to create a story that is not only heard but also felt.
In the early days of their romance, the couple began writing music together. This connection grew into a deep love and subsequently, Horses Heaven. Both having an extensive and unique background in entertainment, they inspired each other to create a new sound and begin a fresh chapter in their musical endeavors.
The couple took their sound to the studio and gave it life, building around simple songs written on either guitar, piano, or ukelele. Then they gave the songs "studio treatment" with horns, synths, and whatever else walked in that day.
In the lush wilderness of Vermont, there sits an enchanting place called Horses Heaven, which is a deep emerald swimming hole nestled between two towering boulders and found far from town. While visiting this majestic location one humid summer afternoon, Bijou and Analise were inspired to write their song "Vermont" as well as adopt the name of the swimming hole for their collaborations.
“We hope our music cuts the mustard for you as much as it does for us.”
Joe and the Jungle are here to put some L.A. sleaze back into rock n roll. Coming at ya straight off the Sunset Strip by way of New York City... imagine if you threw Guns n’ Roses, Cheap Trick and The Beatles into a blender and added a dash of The Sex Pistols for flavor…the resulting mess would be Joe and the Jungle... [they] make me think about what Velvet Revolver could have been if Scott Weiland wasn't such a candyass. Or maybe what it would have sounded like if GnR had dropped the cocaine in favor of dropping a little acid instead. These guys remind me of a time when rock music was a little dangerous and the musicians playing it tiptoed on the edge of disaster.