The Feds

Posted March 17, 2006 — in Higher Learning

The Feds

The Feds are one of the few modern bands that can bring the energy and fun of an arena rock show to a stage of any size. They have been a Dallas staple for years, selling out shows regionally. With the new release of their self-titled EP produced by Alex Gerst and Dave Castell (Blue October, Burden Brothers), The Feds are preparing to take their brand of music to a national stage. They have already sold over 1500 through touring, and recently shipped to retail. Picking up impressive college radio support throughout the region including KTXT, KRSC, KABF and many more. After sharing a stage with the likes of Hoobastank, Disturbed, Finch, Velvet Revolver and the entire Warped Tour line up, The Feds have proven they can not only hold their own, but put on a live show that puts most major label acts to shame.

For more information contact management Aden Holt at One Ton Music 214.760.4808. Lawyer is Jay Flemma (Bowling for Soup)

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Christian Music In The Mainstream

Posted March 12, 2006 — in KOAR Rants, Music News

It seems odd to me that a Christian message is more accessible on mainstream rock stations than on AC or Hot AC. Not to stereotype Christians in any way, but knowing that the majority of what is available in the Christian music scape fits in perfectly with the style of music normally found on AC stations (soft rock, pop), it is surprising that the successful crossover bands are mostly in mainstream rock. POD, Chevelle, Evanescence, Creed, Mae, Anberlin, Flyleaf, Killswitch Engage, Dead Poetic, As I Lay Dying, Norma Jean, Switchfoot and many more have all made their impact on Active Rock and Alternative radio, as well as the more indie-leaning college stations, without compromising their clearly Christian themes. While a couple of these artists have also popped up on AC stations, the bulk of their listenership is coming from the rock world. I don’t doubt there are Christians in other genres, but it seems their messages must be veiled and vague to achieve the same level of success available to them in rock music. Why is this? Is there room for a clearly Christian artist in other formats?

AJ, KOAR

On A Dead Machine

Posted March 10, 2006 — in Higher Learning

OADM

Alternative Rock Memphis based “OADM” just completed their next album to be released sometime in early 2006. The album was produced by GGGarth (Chevelle/Rage Against The Machine) and Ben Kaplan (Project 86/Haste The Day). The album was recorded at the FARM in Vancouver and mixed at  Atlanta based Southern Tracks studio with Ryan Williams (10 Years/30 Seconds To Mars). Be the first to hear the exclusive tracks courtesy of KOAR. For more information go to: http://www.onadeadmachine.com/

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Paulson

Posted — in Higher Learning

Paulson2

Paulson - New Jersey - Think a stripped down Depeche Mode meets Dredg. Paulson is unique among the indie community and they aren’t afraid to write memorable mesmerizing choruses that gets better with multiple listens. Paulson has a 2 album deal with One Day Savior (Boys Night Out, Juliana Theory, Hopesfall) and recently released their second record “All At Once” which was produced by Mike Poorman (Tsunami Bomb, Hot Rod Circuit). After talking to Alex the bass player we realize this NJ native alternative outfit are in touch with reality. Despite the low budgets, the group committed itself to touring full-time quitting jobs and dropping out of college. Simply, Paulson is seeking world domination. In the last year Paulson have performed over 250 shows in 34 states and Canada touring with Senses Fail (Vagrant), Midtown (Columbia), Far-Less (Tooth and Nail), etc. The have also appeared on major festivals including the Warped Tour and done one offs with bands like Brand New, Fall Out Boy, and The Starting Line. No lawyer or manager attached.

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Bain Mattox

Posted — in Higher Learning

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Bain Mattox - KOAR has been placing bets on Mattox for the last year and we are still in the game because we think he is the real deal. If you never heard of Bain Mattox then the following description should suffice. Think Keane meets Lifehouse. Atlanta/Athens, Georgia based Bain Mattox has a grassroots following that can’t be ignored. At age 23, front man Mattox and his 4-piece band have built this project from the ground up, with over 1,000 in attendance at his last hometown performance at The Roxy Theatre and a strong tour history with a proven 150-200 draw in 4+ additional markets. With his cross-over potential, Mattox is already a celebrated artist with awards across the board including People’s Choice for “Best Singer/Songwriter�, “Best Front Man� (Atlanta Music Guide Music Awards), “Best Singer/Songwriter� and “Best Rock Band� (Athens Flagpole Music Awards). Music has been heard on MTV’s “Real World�, TNT for NASCAR, 99x specialty, Q100’s morning show, FOX (Charlotte), and CBS’s “Good Morning Atlanta�. Bain Mattox has shared the stage with The Strokes, Switchfoot, Liz Phair, Better Than Ezra, etc. His sophomore release, “Prizefighter�, will be released November 1st. Mattox and band will be touring in support of “Prizefighter� this fall/winter. Current notable dates include October 28 @ Atlanta’s Roxy Theatre and November 12th @ New York’s Knitting Factory.

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The Frail Division

Posted — in Higher Learning

The Frail Division

The Frail Division- If the Deftones and The Used had a child; it just might be The Frail Division. Hailing from Little Rock Arkansas, this three year old alternative rock outfit has made it’s mark by continuously selling out Juanita’s at over 400 paid and selling 2000 copies of it’s first two records. Now receiving 15 spins a week on KDJE Clear Channel Little Rock. Their DIY attitude rings true as they have averaged over a hundred shows a year and self produced every one of the songs. The Frail Division has shared the stage with Chevelle, Seether, Crossfade, Shinedown, 10 Years, Future Leaders Of The World, and many more. They’re currently working on the next project, a concept album about the complexities of one man’s life from nursery to nursing home which is scheduled to drop December 05. Some tracks have been already released to the public for free including “Sara”, “Judas”, “Bleeding” and “No Place Like Home.” The Frail Division are booked every weekend through October, November and December in the Midwest area including Texas, TN, Mississippi, Oklahoma, etc. Next  big hometown show in Little Rock  December 16th at Juanita’s.  (will be sold out).

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Great Glass Elevator

Posted — in Higher Learning

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Great Glass Elevator - This alternative rock outfit is based in Orange County CA with an age ranging from 18-20. This band strives for spontaneity, admirably pushing itself into new territory. This proves that some young bands still have original ideas within this generically boring music scene. Listen to the tribal influenced track Fike Philophobia if you don’t believe me. Self released EP All In The Golden Afternoon in April 2005 which has sold over 1,200 CD’s. Hot Topic Stores is in the process of ordering their EP to stock in stores nation wide. Alternative Press just mentioned the band in the September issue. The band averages ten shows per month across Southern California and in addition to clubs, colleges and all ages venues while playing high schools to build their fan base. They have opened for bands such as Emery, Hello Goodbye, Sherwood, Koufax, Waking Ashland, Limbeck and Emmanuel. Getting airplay in the last week each evening on Los Angeles’ radio station Indie 103.1FM’s specialty show, Jonesys Jukebox with Steve Jones. Next Shows: October 14 - at The Troubador (with Gratitude). October 15th - San Diego, CA at Ground Zero. October 31 - Anaheim, CA at Chain Reaction.

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The Waiting Hurt

Posted — in Higher Learning

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To say the modern alternative/emo rock band The Waiting Hurt have time on their hands is a bit of an understatement. Hailing from Barstow, CA the members of The Waiting Hurt have chores to do after school, homework every night, after school jobs and not to mention gathering the courage to ask a girl to the high school prom. They sound like your typical high school teenagers, right? Wrong! You can add band practice, recording sessions, shows at The Whisky in LA, shows in Vegas, opening slots for Himsa, Over it, Name taken, Wester to name a few. The Waiting Hurt who draws influences from Glassjaw, Jimmy Eat World, My Romantic Romance & Bright Eyes is comprised of lead singer Johnny Soto (17), guitarists Justin Deverell (16) & Jeff Younger (17), Bassist Jared Jaramillo (17) and drummer Daniel Concho (18). “The funny thing is that we are not old enough to get into the clubs we want to play so it makes it difficult to trade gigs� explains lead singer Johnny Sotto. But the band does not seem worried by this tiny obstacle. The band is already drawing 200+ in their hometown of Barstow,CA.

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