“I feel in general my solo work feels more true to who I am as an individual.” 7 Questions with Claire George

March 29, 2020 — Leave a comment

When I go to a music festival I always do my best to discover new music. It’s one thing to go and hear your favorite bands but, unless you knew every act on a lineup, more than likely you’ll have gaps in your schedule. What I’ll do is chat up some of the crowd or some of the local photographers and ask who’s a performer I should check out today? It was Capitol Hill Block Party (CHBP) 2018. Of the people I spoke to, many suggested I check out Claire George. Prior to that CHBP performance, I had not heard of Claire, but after seeing her set I was mesmerized. Her set was a mixture of great vocals interplayed with synths, fascinating lyrics, and danceable beats. I was instantly a fan. Recently, I reached out to Claire and had an opportunity to do a short interview. Here’s my short interview with Claire George:

1.) The first time I saw you perform was at Capitol Hill Block Party 2018 as a solo artist, but through research it looks like you were the lead singer of an indie rock band called HEARTWATCH. Hearing your work as a solo artist and the music presented by HEARTWATCH, I’d say the two present very different music styles. Was it a challenge to transition to a solo artist, or was your solo work always something you had in mind and were hoping to get out?

It was definitely a challenge to create my solo work as I had never made music on my own, but I definitely feel it better represents my musical tastes and my life more. Learning how to produce electronic music on my own presented a lot of challenges for me but also felt the most rewarding because I put so much more of myself into making it. I felt pretty worried about the reception of the solo work after the band’s material, and there were definitely some fans who want me to make something less dark, but I feel in general my solo work feels more true to who I am as an individual.

Capitol Hill Block Party 2018

2.) Your latest release, “Alone, Together” and it’s quasi remix “Alone, Together (Forever)” are fabulous both in composition and message. “Alone, Together” was described on your site as the different seasons in the lifecycle of a failed relationship. I personally love how the song ends with a sense of hopefulness. On the flipside, “Alone, Together (Forever)” carries some of those same feelings, but is more reminiscent of Robyn’s “Dancing on my Own” in that it’s very danceable but with a very relatable message. Would you mind speaking to the creation of both songs?

I wrote the first version as a piano ballad by myself, but when my friend Josh from Yumi Zouma saw me perform it live he asked if he could help me produce it out. When we got into the session the song took on a whole new light and I loved it so much that I wanted to share both versions with the world. I like that the version that I wrote solo feels pretty isolated and intimate and the version with Josh feels much more collaborative and dancey, something you want to listen to with another person.

3.) Regarding your 2018 EP, Bodies of Water, one song in particular that pulled my attention was Orbits where you have these poetic lyrics of what sounds like recognizing potential but you also mixed in references to the Voyager space program (which launched a literal Gold Record into space). When it comes to song writing do you approach each song with intention in that “with this song I hope to convey (blank)” or do you let each song flow into what they eventually become in that there’s no real plan, it comes together on the page? How would you describe your approach?

I create both ways, sometimes with a general intention, sometimes with a phrase or idea in mind, and sometimes with a whole concept in place. Orbits came out with an intention for sure, and I knew I wanted to connect the romantic idea of the Golden Record into the song. A lot of my music comes from just sitting down and letting things spill out of me though. Sometimes when I try too hard to have a plan or intention behind it, it can feel forced, so I try to let things flow however they want once I sit down to write.

Barboza, October 2019

Something I like to do to create a through-line for all the folks I interview is I ask the prior interview subject to provide 3 blind questions for the next interviewee with no knowledge as to who I would interview next. These next 3 questions were provided by my last interview subject Icelandic Singer Songwriter Asgeir. Asgeir asks: (Claire: Love this!)
4.) When you were young – What did you want to become when you grew up?
Mariah Carey, but my own version haha! I was obsessed with her. I wanted to be a pop star when I was little, but that got buried for a long time and the desire to be an artist only came bubbling back up for me after college.

5.) What was the best advice someone gave you?
Start now, you will never again be younger than you are today.

6.) How do you think popular music will sound in 50 years?
I think we will be even more integrated with technology and perhaps there will be machines assisting in creation of music but I don’t like to think that they will take over the process completely. Perhaps we will have machines that can tune into our emotions and feelings and adjust/create music that suits us. I think there will be even further development in electronic music but will get the hang of making things sound more natural. We will probably have even busier more distracting lives so the songs may be even shorter and to the point than they are today!

7.) As my final question, I follow you on Instagram, and earlier this year you shared your first “Clairetoon”. Were these “Clairetoons” something you’ve always done, or something new you wanted try and share? Can we expect more “Clairetoons” throughout the year?

This is something new I’ve wanted to try out and share, and yes! I will definitely be sharing more throughout the year 🙂

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7bX2egFlr8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

(I want to thank Claire George for taking the time to answer my questions. Check out Claire’s latest single, Alone Together, and the song’s remix, Alone Together (Forever), on all streaming platforms. Also check out Claire’s debut EP, Bodies of Water, also on all streaming platforms.)

“Lose sight of the shore, it’s never too late to go after what you want no matter the circumstance…” 7 Questions with Hip Hop Group, New Track City

February 10, 2020 — Leave a comment

In 2017, when I started going to live shows on a weekly basis, one of the first things I decided to do was post a picture or video on my Instagram from every set I attended. After a month or two of doing this, a handful of bands started to reach out and ask if I had any interest in checking out their music. New Track City was one of the first bands I remember reaching out. Not only was I impressed by the work that brothers Bem and Chi Stone had already released, but I was impressed by how authentic they were. Interacting with them on social media, listening to their music, and seeing them perform live, you get a sense that they’re being themselves and are willing to put in the work to be successful. With producer Dru rounding out the trio and news of an upcoming album, I’m excited to see where this evolving hip hop group will go in 2020. I had the opportunity to interview New Track City recently. Here’s my short interview with New Track City:

1.) Each of your albums have a fairly distinct feel from one another. My introduction to New Track City was the “The Damn Gina Tape”, but the album I find myself listening to randomly on the regular at my day job is “Lose Sight of the Shore”. The album has the great flow from Bem and Chi Stone, but Dru’s production really makes that project shine. How did you approach the creation of “Lose Sight of the Shore” different from your other work? Was it business as usual or did you have a concept for what you wanted the album to be when it was completed?

Man, “Lose Sight of the Shore” came out in August, 2017 and we remember being like yo… This is our first album with all original production, everything from the ground up is gonna be all us. We wanted the sounds to be colorful with live instrumentation showing everyone who our influences are, a throwback album with new school inflections with the overall message of motivation. Lose sight of the shore, it’s never too late to go after what you want no matter the circumstance and we feel like we accomplished that.

2.) I’ve always enjoyed the group’s Instagram page. It’s a mixture of cultural pride, and a celebration of modern hip hop. Every now and again you’ll say “this artist is one of your favorites”, but I always wanted to know, who do you feel are the top three best hip-hop artists of all time and why?

Wow, well it would be different for all of us and it changes but we all agree on Jay Z, Kanye West, Outkast or A Tribe Called Quest depending on the day. Reason being, Jay Z is every rappers blueprint to greatness musically and in life. He says bars that make sense years after you first heard them. Kanye West because he shaped the sound of music time and time again and opened the door for folks like us to even pursue music plus, he’s witty as hell! Outkast because they may be the most unique Hip Hop Act of all time from style, to how they rap, to their overall sound. Tribe’s PRODUCTION IS EVERYTHING, so we had to throw them in there.

3.) Kind of going off the last question, I heard in past interviews you mentioned what music styles inspired your style. There are styles that definitely permeate in your work, definitely jazz (Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, etc.), but what kind of blew my mind was that you gave shout outs to ABBA, and also mentioned trying to rap over Butterfly by Crazy Town. Do you feel that it’s important that emerging hip hop artists today should explore styles outside of hip hop, and who are your favorite go-to non-hip-hop artists?

It’s definitely important for Hip Hop acts to explore outside of the genre because although Hip Hop is running things, it incorporates everything! To us, it only makes sense to reach outside the genre because that’s how you develop your own sound and keep the culture fresh. We have a huge list of artists we listen to outside of Hip Hop. Amy Winehouse, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Joss Stone, James Brown, Davido just to name a few.

Something I like to do to create a through-line for all the folks I interview is I ask the prior interview subject to provide 3 blind questions for the next interviewee with no knowledge as to who I would interview next. These next 3 questions were provided by my last interview subject, Whitney Petty and Molly Sides from Thunderpussy. Molly and Whitney ask:
4.) If you had to choose one thing to go away forever, would you choose vegetables or the wind?
Well, since we need wind to create renewable energy, we’d have to say get rid of Vegetables because fruits would still exist so that would take their place.

5.) Would you rather be in the air or in water?
Flying in the Air!!!! On some Superman / Thor stuff, that would be INCREDIBLE!

6.) If you knew the world was ending in 48 hours what would you try to accomplish?
This question is insane! Where do we even start!?!?! We’d tell our family and friends we love them. Leave all our valuables to them. Take a final drive listening to our catalog, take in one last view of nature catching a beautiful sunset reflecting on the life we lived and then yeah. Go meet Nipsey and Kobe in the sky.

7.) For my last question, I heard in a past interview you mentioned movies and television were art forms that inspired some of your work. What are three must see films or television programs each of you recommend checking out?

Not a fair question, too many to name but if we had to. “Kill Bill”, “The Matrix”, ” Bad Boys 2” and “Rush Hour 2” and “Supernatural.” ‘Dragon Ball Z” dang this question! (lol)

I have to thank New Track City (Bem, Chi Stone, and Dru) for taking the time to answer my questions. Check out their website for news and events, follow them on Instagram, Youtube, and other social media, and keep an eye out for their next album some time in 2020.

Bringing in the New Year with Thunderpussy, BEAR AXE, Constant Lovers, and Trash Fire!

January 3, 2020 — 1 Comment

For the fourth year in a row, I attended the Thunderpussy New Year’s Eve Party at the Showbox. The theme of the night was “The Glow of Neon Sax” and attendees were encouraged to wear their neon best for what was sure to be a memorable night. The lineup was stacked with some of Seattle’s most entertaining performers headlined by the night’s hosts, Thunderpussy. I’ve always loved these Thunderpussy New Year’s Eve shows. They’re always high energy and a great way to welcome the New Year. This year’s show was no exception.

Trash Fire
When I heard Trash Fire was going to open for Thunderpussy, I was excited. This was my fifth time seeing them perform live. Normally their sets are punctuated by some fun onstage antics like grabbing drinks and splashing the crowd with alcohol, using props like inflatable cats or a cash shooter, or the lead singer jumping into the audience to bring the show directly to crowd members. This set had the feel of a classic Trash Fire performance, but a little more toned back. There wasn’t much drink throwing, but there was still the audience engagement. Highlights of the set saw the lead singer give the light up LED shoes directly off his feet to someone in the audience, the lead singer run to the bar during a song, order three shots and proceed to drink shots with the bass player and the lead guitarist, and in a particularly unique moment the lead singer laid down on stage his head going into the hands of nearby audience members, stand up quickly only to get some bracelets stuck in his hair, and rather than pull the bracelets out, he continued the performance with these elastic bracelets hanging from his hair. As always they were fun and spontaneous. If you get the opportunity, I recommend checking out Trash Fire.

Constant Lovers

This was my first time seeing Constant Lovers perform and I was pleasantly surprised. I would describe their set as a dynamic mix of rock and hard rock featuring a lead singer switching between vocals, percussion, and saxophone. The lead singer’s ability to switch between instruments while also providing vocals was impressive. If I didn’t see it live, it’s almost hard to believe how well he was able to pull this off. Constant Lovers more than provided the necessary “Glow of Neon Sax” the night was themed after.

BEAR AXE

If there was any Seattle band I would put money on breaking out of the Seattle music scene within the next year or two, it would be BEAR AXE. I’ve seen BEAR AXE perform four times and all four times, I was left in awe of the performance led primarily by lead vocalist Shaina Shepherd. Her ability to command the stage is one thing, but the power of her vocals will make anyone a fan. The rest of the band are nothing to sleep on as well. The lead guitarist’s ability to play off the driving beat of the bass player and drummer really add a very jazz inspired quality to what I would otherwise describe as a soul/ funk/ hard rock amalgamation. Throughout their set BEAR AXE welcomed several local standouts including Terry Monstrosity and Kathy Moore To join their performance. If you haven’t already, check out BEAR AXE.

Thunderpussy

Personally I’ve seen Thunderpussy perform over twenty plus times. This past New Year’s Eve show the band accomplished to create something that felt new and fresh. When you go to a Thunderpussy show, there’s no question that you’re seeing a Thunderpussy show. There’s going to be hard rock with an emphasis on great musicianship, strong vocals, innate sexiness, and of course high energy. What made this performance stand out was what felt like a real emphasis on staging. The use of lighting, and how their wardrobe can play off that lighting, really added another layer to their performance. It’s because of this lighting and focus on staging, the audience was treated to a performance different from most other Thunderpussy shows. In terms of the set list, I like that they incorporated a lot of new songs into the mix. Hearing songs debut for the first time is one thing, but hearing some of their standards played in a sort of montage mid set as well as hearing the songs featured on their latest EP “Milk It” shows a band that’s willing to let their sound evolve. The set closed with members of the opening bands and several special guests (including Eva Walker from the Black Tones) taking the stage to perform in one massive jam session beginning with a cover of “We Belong” and closing out with a cover of “Jump Into the Fire”.

Overall, I felt very happy bringing in the new year with Thunderpussy. You would think seeing a band perform on New Year’s Eve four years in a row would get kind of stale, but really it’s become a pretty awesome tradition. I always try to bring a friend who’s never been to a Thunderpussy show along with, and every time the freind is blown away looking to snag merch and trying to find out when the next show is. I think that’s why I’ve been a Thunderpussy fan for so long. They have a captivating quality that leaves the audience wanting to see them perform again.

Thanks for the great time, Trash Fire, Constant Lovers, BEAR AXE, and of course, Thunderpussy!

CakeInTheRain206’s 15 Best Photos of 2019

December 27, 2019 — Leave a comment

This blog is an offshoot of my Instagram: Cakeintherain206. I wanted to practice my writing skills alongside my photography skills. Instagram is a great platform to practice both writing and photography skills, but long form writing should be done on a blog. All the photos on my posts, except for some of the promo images provided by the artists were taken by me with my cell phone. To check out more of my photos and videos, check out my Instagram: Cakeintherain206. Here are 15 of my favorite shots from the year:

Greta Van Fleet – 1/10/19 – The Paramount

Amyl and The Sniffers – 3/18/19 – Barboza

Tacocat – 6/8/19 – The Showbox

The Comet is Coming – 6/20/19 – Barboza

Mitski – 7/20/19 – Capitol Hill Block Party 2019

Bear Axe – 7/20/19 – Capitol Hill Block Party 2019

Fucked and Bound – 8/24/19 – Linda’s Fest 2019

Sol – 8/31/19 – Bumbershoot 2019

Kolars – 8/31/19 – Bumbershoot 2019

Starcrawler – 10/9/19 – The Crocodile

Banners – 10/13/19 – Chop Suey

Grizz – 10/17/19 – The Paramount

Maiah Manser – 10/30/19 – Barboza

The Paranoyds – 11/6/19 – Barboza

Crushed PBR – 11/22/19 – Lost Lake Cafe

CakeInTheRain206: 10 Favorite Albums of 2019

December 15, 2019 — Leave a comment

10 – [USA] by Anamanaguchi
I heard about this album from an Instagram post by one of my favorite artists, Porter Robinson. I gave it a listen and fell in love. It’s dance music. It’s chiptune. It’s music in the same vein as Kero Kero Bonito, Porter Robinison and Madeon. I’m excited to see them when they come to the Crocodile in March.

9 – WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO by Billie Eilish
It’s hard to describe what makes this album so interesting. It’s like a combination of the best versions of the music tropes of 2019. At times it’s like listening to ASMR, while other times it feels like mumble rap, and then out of no where she’s sampling “The Scarn”. The quality I enjoy most about Billie Eilish is that she credits her brother, Finneas, for co -writing the bulk of her songs. It’s admirable that she lets people know about his contribution.

8 – Four of Arrows by Great Grandpa
When my brother told me that Great Grandpa put out one of the best albums of the year, I was pretty skeptical. I like Great Grandpa (pictured above), I’ve seen them perform at least 4 separate times, but a contender for album of the year? I sat down, listened to the album and was pleasantly surprised. Four of Arrows comes out of no where and can easily contend with the best albums of 2019. It’s a little cliché, but this album sounds like a band coming into their own, and finding their own sound.

7 – Bandana by Freddie Gibbs & Madlib
When it comes to hip hop, I’m not a fan of mumble rap or a lot of modern non lyric/flow driven artists. I like artists that can spit, have a somewhat cohesive message, and have a back beat that folks can get down to. This album is smooth. The beats, samples, and production of Madlib back the great lyrical style of Freddie Gibbs. Bandana stands as one of the best rap albums in recent memory. I highly suggest checking out their NPR Tiny Desk Concert.

6 – On the Line by Jenny Lewis
This album feels personal. It’s as if Jenny Lewis wanted to indirectly send messages to loved ones in relatable songs that feel like a friend reminiscing. The song structures, although fairly simplistic, are generally sweet. The album is really just easy going music that doesn’t feel overwhelmed by production. The lyrics and Lewis’ voice are the showcase here.

5 – Titanic Rising by Weyes Blood
I’ve always been a fan singer songwriters. This album sounds like a 70’s singer songwriter reminiscent of Karen Carpenter or Janis Ian decided to write an album describing being a young adult today and also the direness some of the “crisis” our generation has seemingly grown up with. There are so many songs folks from my generation can relate to while listening to this album. As time goes by, this will be an album folks will point to as a snapshot of what life was like for young adults right now, a mix of burnout and hopefulness.

4 – Champion by Bishop Briggs
I don’t think there is any other way to describe this album than a quote from National Public Radio’s (NPR) All Songs Considered podcast. In a review of the album, the host said “This is a breakup record and there’s kind of two directions you can go with a breakup record – you can go very, very inward or you can go very, very outward. I think she finds a way to do both. She’s able to tap into feelings of hurt and loss and pain, but channel them into these big, very empowerment-focused anthems that just shout from the rafters. She manages to make a very rousing statement out of personal pain.”

3 – Father of the Bride by Vampire Weekend
This album feels like a Vampire Weekend reboot 6 years in the making. The album has a lot of nature references, which I don’t recall being as prevalent in their previous albums. The album also feels very future centric, and looking towards what’s next. It serves as an aspirational and a hopeful vision of tomorrow.

2 – Lux Prima by Karen O & Danger Mouse
This album sounds as if Danger Mouse heard there was a new James Bond film coming down the pike, and decided I would love to score that new movie, Karen O can provide vocals, here’s a demo of what we can offer. The production on this album is astounding. It really does sound like high budget film score. This is an album you put on when you want to relax with a cocktail.

1 – Cuz I Love You by Lizzo
You can’t deny how big of a star Lizzo has become in 2019 and this album proves it. The one word I would use to describe this album, positivity. This album is empowering and just brimming with feminist laced positive energy. Lizzo took her life experiences and laid out for listeners how she uses those to drive her forward. It’s a feel good album that has so many danceable hits that I wouldn’t be surprised if we heard songs from this album used commercially in ads and in regular rotation in nightclub mixes for years to come.

Honorable Mentions:
– Devour You by Starcrawler – This album feels like a sample of what it’s like seeing Starcrawler perform live, just youthful controlled sexy rock chaos.
– This Mess is a Place by TacocaT – Only TacocaT can make pointed criticisms seem so danceable and fun. This album feels like a hopeful yet fully aware snapshot of the time we currently live in.
– There Existed an Addiction to Blood by clipping. – You have to show love to clipping. and this audio vampire story released around the Halloween season.
– Dedicated by Carly Rae Jepsen – If you would have told me in 2012 that in 2019, Carly Rae Jepsen would release a better pop album than Taylor Swift, I would have thought you were crazy, but between the two releases, Jepsen’s Dedicated is a better album than Swift’s Lover.
– Of the Deep Mystery by The Comet is Coming – You have to see these guys live. It’s Jazz. It’s Dance Music. It’s rhythm that just doesn’t stop. My favorite track Summon the Fire sounds like if Jazz and Techno had a child in an afro futuristic space station.

(Spotify Playlist with 10 songs from my 10 favorite albums)

My Experience at Bumbershoot 49: The Bear Essential Bumbershoot

September 8, 2019 — Leave a comment

My favorite set at this year’s Bumbershoot was The Lumineers (above)

One week ago was Bumbershoot 49. The reviews are in. For every even handed review, you have a review where the reviewer wants you to know Bumbershoot was expensive, different from their favorite Bumbershoot a decade or two ago, and they felt old in the young crowd. I always love reading those reviews. They read like a high school student who was required to go to a play for his art class. The person writes as if they were forced to go, coupled with a lot of padded paragraphs concerning the periphery of the event like history and critiques of transplants, and then like 2 or 3 paragraphs of their experience. They’re pretty funny.

Jai Wolf at the main stage, Day 3

I attended Bumbershoot 49. I grew up in Seattle and this was my 8th consecutive Bumbershoot. I did what I try to do every year at Bumbershoot. I tried to have a great time. I went out and met people. If I ran into artists, I complimented them on their sets. I danced. I drank. I tried to hear new music objectively. I tried to put out a positive vibe and hoped I would get that energy back.

ReignWolf, Day 3

Speaking from experience this year’s Bumbershoot felt “less”. There were at least 3 less stages. With less stages, there were less slots for performers, so there was less performances to check out. There was no “Flatstock”. There was no dance arts stage. There was no KEXP presence. There was no Sub Pop or other branded pop up shop. The ticket price remained as high as ever. The film selection at SIFF cinema was lacking. The SIFF programming was 2 documentaries about the space needle that took up a one hour block, followed by a 4 hour block of music videos. The whole festival on paper felt like a group got together, decided to throw a “Bumbershoot”, and the first thought at the pitch meeting was, “We don’t want to spend too much money but we also want to give people the “Bumbershoot experience”, what’re the bear essentials of Bumbershoot?”.

Posters for Bumbershoot 2019 (left) and Bumbershoot 2012 (right). The reductions are pretty obvious.

As harsh as that critique may seem, that was all information that could have been gleaned from one review of the schedule, map, or lineup prior to the event. I usually purchase my tickets before they announce the lineup because I expect Bumbershoot to be Bumbershoot. It’s a local tradition. If you still bought tickets even after researching that information, then it’s on you for purchasing tickets for an obviously reduced event. Despite all of this, the actual mood of the event was positive. It felt like more people had attended this year’s Bumbershoot, than last year’s Bumbershoot. Maybe the reduced experiences, caused more people to congregate at stages in heavier volumes, but it definitely felt like the crowds were heavier than they were in 2018. Folks were lined up for laser light shows at Pacific Science Center, half an hour before the show, only to fill the room to capacity. Every stage had pretty sizeable audience turnouts. I hate to bring this up, but the Jai Wolf crowd, broke the barrier on Saturday night and other than being emblematic of an enthusiastic crowd it’s also emblematic of a well attended set.

Longtime Bumbershoot fans getting things started on Day 1

Chatting with folks around the festival, everyone seemed to be excited. One of the first bands I saw on Day 1 were the School of Rock kids. Prior to their set, a group of long time Bumbershoot fans had congregated at the Fischer Green stage (where they would be most of the weekend), and had already begun dancing even before the band took the stage. One of the couples told me about how they were in their 70’s and had been to every Bumbershoot except for one. When asked who they were looking forward to seeing that weekend, the gentleman in the couple said, “The Dip and Rezz.” I went to see The Dip later that night. I stacked up as close as I could to the barricade. A younger fan and her dad stood next to me. I asked the younger fan if she was enjoying her day? She told me about how she was 12, this was her first Bumbershoot, and she was having a great time. I told her about how I was impressed that she would get this close to the stage to see The Dip. It’s stuff like that that makes me happy. It’s reminiscent of the family heavy crowd that attended Reignwolf on Day 2 (the following day). I didn’t think it would be appropriate to mosh at Reignwolf seeing how many children were with their parents in the audience. Those kids are going to go to their first days of school and be able to brag to the other kids how they went to a music festival and were front row for The Dip, or were on their dad’s shoulders for Reignwolf. It’s just so cool.

Sol, Day 1

As great as it was to meet an experienced Bumbershoot couple and a first time fest fan, I think getting to interact with artists is one of the bigger appeals of Bumbershoot. Other than nodding up to Sol when I would run into him at random stages, or standing next to Nestra for a song or two as he yelled at Pink Sweat$ (who was wearing literal pink sweats in direct sunlight), “Isn’t it hot?!”, my favorite Bumbershoot 49 artist run in was during the Kolars set on Day 3. I had stacked up at the front of the stage. Yogashoot hadn’t wrapped yet, but Kolars had already took the stage and were ready to begin their set. A dad and his kids had posted up right next to me. I chatted with this couple on my other side, but I glanced over at this dad every now and again and mentioned how great this next band was and how we were all looking forward to this set. As Kolars began to perform, two songs in, the lead singer dedicated a song to that dad next to us, “This next song is for Mike.” It didn’t take me too long to realize, Oh wow, that’s Mike McCready from Pearl Jam. The dead giveaway was when he took out his Polaroid camera and began taking shots of the band. All I could think was I have his book “Of Potato Heads and Polaroids” at home, how cool is it that he still takes Polaroids at shows? haha. Realizing he was on family time, I didn’t ask him for a photo, I just thought it was a cool Bumbershoot moment. I got to watch Kolars next to Mike McCready.

Kolars, Day 3

The performances I saw were fabulous. After seeing their sets at Bumbershoot, I immediately went out and downloaded albums from both Donna Missal and Bryce Vine. Their sets had me chanting as if I were at a pro wrestling show, “Please come back!”. Carly Rae Jepsen proved why her latest album “Dedicated” should be up their as one of the top releases of 2019. LP delivered a memorable set. The Lumineers’ performance on Day 2 made me put away my camera and just be there in the moment. Something about hearing the song “Cleopatra” and dancing and singing with the strangers around me, made me realize I want to just be “here” now. Taking Back Sunday on Day 3 brought me back to high school. It was a special performance for a number of reasons, but the lead singer being unable to climb back on stage mid set and making the executive decision to just wander the crowd while singing, hugging and dancing with everyone was something myself and fans who were there won’t forget.

Taking Back Sunday, Day 3

Finally, Rezz closing out the festival was just fun. I normally go to festivals alone and just meet up with freinds at sets we all mutually want to see. Rezz was a performer all my friends who attended Bumbershoot wanted to see. Being able to spend time dancing with them in that crowd felt special. At one point I disappeared for a bit, in order to eat a lobster sushi burrito. I got closer to one side of the stage so I could dance and chow down. Randomly a member of one of the bands (no joke, I think it was one of the DJs from Louis the Child) tried chatting with me about how he had eaten a lot of food at catering and how I, dancing while eating during Rezz, was “Living the best life”. All I could think of while dancing, eating, and chatting to this musician was, no one else is probably having a Bumbershoot experience like mine.

Rezz, Day 3

On paper, this will probably go down as one of the most lackluster Bumbershoots, but for me and a lot of those who attended I can’t say it was a negative experience. I felt like I had a great time, met some awesome people, danced, heard some great artists, and made some great memories. Where it stacks against my prior Bumbershoot experiences, I can’t say it was one of the best, but no where near my worst. I feel like everyone I spoke to after the event have had similar opinions as well. It wasn’t a terrible Bumbershoot, but also was no where near noteworthy. If I were to give a straight no non sense opinion about Bumbershoot 49, it made me excited for next year. =)

Carly Rae Jepsen, Day 2

See ya next year, Bumbershoot! I hope Bumbershoot 50 is something special.

(All photos were taken by me. Check out my Instagram at: Cakeintherain206)

Tips for a Great Bumbershoot 2019

August 27, 2019 — Leave a comment

Bumbershoot is one of my favorite events of the year. Growing up in Seattle I would always hear about the festival, and since 2012, I haven’t missed a single Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival.

I always come back from Bumbershoot having met new people, seen some great bands, and overall feeling like I had just been “recharged”. Friends will ask “do you have any tips to help maximize my Bumbershoot experience?” Here are my 5 tips to help maximize your Bumbershoot experience:

5.) The best beer prices are at SIFF Cinema. If you want to beat the heat, and get away from the crowd, go to SIFF Cinema and catch a collection of films. Cans of Rainier (in years past) are only $3, there’s non port-o-potty restrooms available, and it’s just an opportunity to sit in the dark away from the sun and the overwhelming crowd for a bit. It’s a just a good way to rest.

Flume, Bumbershoot 2017

4.) In years past, the best entrance to the festival grounds is adjacent to the Bagley Wright Theater. It normally features multiple entrance lanes, a separate entrance for VIP/Emerald pass holders, and a separate ADA entrance.

3.) Review the schedule and plan ahead before attending the festival. If you want to see a particular act up close and they’re performing at the main stage, get there early. If you aren’t VIP and the performer is later in the day, expect to get there at least a two or three sets early, and be prepared to stand for long hours. If they’re not at the main stage and are at one of the minor stages, 10 to 15 minutes before the performance should be fine unless they are the headliner of that stage, then you may want to hang out during the prior performer’s set in order to get a great view.

Cody Jinks, Bumbershoot 2017

2.) Check out the non musical experiences. The Bumbershoot team always book some great non musical performers throughout the weekend. I once saw a panel/podcast recording featuring Bill Nye, Eugene Mirman, and Pete Holmes. I once saw Paul F Tompkins and Matt Gourley do improv. The food selections at the B-Eats section are amazing as well.

1.) Go to Bumbershoot with friends but don’t go as a group. I can’t say this enough, go to Bumbershoot alone. Going alone to Bumbershoot alone, doesn’t mean you’re by yourself. Everyone there is on the same mission you are, and as long as you understand that you’re there to have a good time and you’re not trying to ruin anyone else’s good time, everyone will want to have a good time with you. I usually let my friends know what performers I plan to see that day, and wherever our schedules line up we try to meet at those place, but we never let each other fully dictate our day. If one person wants to leave early to see another performer, more power to them, we’ll meet up later. Try going to Bumbershoot alone.

Tyler the Creator, Bumbershoot 2016

If I could sum up my advice for Bumbershoot weekend it would be this:
Try something new. Open your ears to new music. Dance with strangers. Wear a funny hat or try an entirely new look. Catch a play or a clown or a debate or podcast or a comedian. You’ll never know who you’ll meet, who you’ll see, or what you’ll do. If anything if you leave yourself open for something new, it’ll be different than what you expected and provide you an experience, you never knew you could have. Have fun, stay safe, and stay hydrated.

Discover at your Desk Playlist 8/13/19

August 13, 2019 — Leave a comment

I get asked often at my day job, “You’re dancing at your desk, what are you listening to?”.

As a way to help share the music that makes me move, I decided to make a rotating 10 song playlist featuring songs that make me dance at my desk. The playlist will feature bands you’ve probably never heard of, local bands you’ve seen on posters, songs from popular bands you may have overlooked, and every now and again a throwback song that you may have forgotten from a performer’s past.

If you’re looking for a new song, artist, or album suggestion, this playlist is for you.

If you want an opportunity to brag to your friends that you heard an artist before they went mainstream, this playlist is for you.

And most importantly, if you want to know what music is making me dance at my desk at my day job, this playlist is for you.

This weeks 10 song playlist (Spotify Playlist included below):
1.) “You Don’t Love Me” – Wilderado
2.) “29” – Run River North
3.) “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free” – John Legend & The Roots
4.) “Party Police” – Alvvays
5.) “Florida Key” – The New Basement Tapes
6.) “Do You Feel This Way” – Kailee Morgue feat Whethan
7.) “4ever” – Youryoungbody
8.) “Strange Embrace” – Kitten
9.) “Graves” – CHVRCHES
10.) “The Town” – Macklemore

Capitol Hill Block Party 2019 was a week ago, here’s my highlights.

August 3, 2019 — Leave a comment

If I’m honest, I wasn’t expecting Capitol Hill Block Party to be as awesome as it was this year. When I think about my approach to Block Party, I picture how most professionals would approach an industry trade show. Like an industry trade show every company invited is given the opportunity to present a sample of their offerings, some companies are given bigger booths than others, you see some industry regulars, and you make friends/network with people who seem to gravitate to the same booths you do. The key differences being the “companies” are bands, the “booths” are stages, and the “offerings” are performances from these bands. What you’re seeing on stage is that band’s best sample of their show, because they want you to follow their product. They want you to be a fan of their work.

Otter Pop (left), Marshall of Marshall Law Band (right)

This year’s lineup didn’t initially “wow” me but I was more than happy to attend for three days and give each artist I saw as much attention as if I had come to Block Party to see them perform specifically. Of the 27 performances I saw, here are my top 3 acts from each day:

JPEGMAFIA

Friday
JPEGMAFIA – JPEGMAFIA came highly recommended by some of my younger friends. This was my first time seeing/hearing him perform. I had no idea what to expect. Having forgotten his laptop, JPEGMAFIA plugged in his phone, and proceeded to have one of the most high energy sets of the weekend. His performance was for sure “hip hop”, but this really felt like a manic “hardcore”/”punk” show. There were mosh pits, stage dives, and moments where JPEG just yelled into the mic. I decided to get in the mosh pit. With a big smile, I proceeded to slam dance with people a little over half my age. After a few kids asked how old I was and I told them I was 30, more than a few lit up and asked if they could square up with me for the next few songs. I happily obliged them, of course. I asked one kid, what does age have to do with this, and he explained, they were just impressed that someone my age was so down to get down to JPEGMAFIA. (haha)

Mitski

Mitski –Mitski was the performer I was most excited to see at this year’s Capitol Hill Block Party. I enjoyed her 2018 album “Be the Cowboy” and had posted up at the front against the barrrier to see her perform live. Once I saw her with a tape measure before her set putting down tape markers I knew we were in for something special. Her performance was creative, the choreography was compelling, and her voice really drew you into the feelings she was trying to evoke. More than a few people near the front were tearing up.

Bear Axe – After Mitski, I made my way to the Neumos stage to catch Bear Axe. I’ve seen Bear Axe on lineups around Seattle but I had never seen them perform. Bear Axe put on a mind blowing performance. I would describe their sound as a mix of funk and punk. Shaina Shepherd’s soulful vocals really stood out especially in their cover of “Where did you sleep last night?”. I definitely want to see Bear Axe perform again.

Tres Leches (Upper Left), Episcool (Upper Right), Perry Porter (Bottom)

Saturday
Perry Porter – If there was any performer that engaged the audience in a memorable way, I would have to give it to local hip hop artist Perry Porter. Perry was one of the early acts of the day. The stage set up were canvases with his paintings on display, a tarp and several plates with paint and brushes. Upon taking the stage, he told everyone at random points throughout the show he would invite folks up to paint his all white outfit. Folks drew in closer just to see his outfit evolve throughout the set, however when he jumped off stage still covered in wet paint and tried to get folks to mosh with him, that’s the only time members of the audience backed away. The performance was one of the more memorable of the weekend for the creative audience engagement Perry had provided.

Tres Leches – I read a Seattle Times article put out a little after Capitol Hill Block Party that described a moment during Tres Leches’ set where they performed a protest song addressing how Block Party had compensated local bands. If I’m honest, I don’t remember hearing this moment. Not saying that it didn’t occur, I didn’t hear it because I had initiated a decent sized mosh pit at the end of their set. This couple had pushed to the front during the last 2 songs of their show. The male in the couple shoved his girlfriend into me and immediately they began apologized. I smiled and said, “No need to apologize, I’m down if you’re down.” The guy smiled, and I shoved him hard into the crowd behind him. Next thing you know we were slam dancing to close out the Tres Leches set. I’ve been to around 10 Tres Leches shows and this is the first time I’ve been part of a crowd who wanted to mosh during their set. This is probably why I missed their protest moment. The fact I was in attendance for their protest song was pretty ironic. I had attended their set because a main stage performer, Saba, had effectively squandered half his set. Saba was scheduled to have an hour slot at the main stage. I remember when Rolling Stone magazine named Saba one of their artists to watch, so I was excited to see him. He began his set 15 minutes late, and once his set started the first 15 minutes was his DJ hyping up the audience. That would mean an hour long set was effectively cut in half. I bailed after Saba performed 2 songs for the Tres Leches set. At the time, I thought cutting your set in half felt disrespectful which is why I left, but after reading Tres Leches’ comments in Seattle Times concerning compensation, I feel great about my choice not indulge in his performance.

A Tribe Called Red – This will probably go down as the year of Lizzo. Lizzo was the reason a ton of my friends had attended Block Party. That was by far one of the most densely packed, long stretching crowds I’ve ever seen for a headliner. I made it as far as the Sushi restaurant. After about fifteen minutes of being pushed and being packed against other people, I decided to bail and go watch A Tribe Called Red. The crowd didn’t thin out until “Out of the Closet” Thrift Shop. That was one of the best decisions I made all weekend. A Tribe Called Red put on one of my favorite sets all weekend. The crowd was happy and dancing. The imagery they used during their set was powerful. It was native imagery. Not just native Americans, but native peoples from around the world. A friend pointed out to me, the images were not about glorifying the stereotype in the images but instead reclaiming it. Taking the image back, and using it as a way to teach and grow. To me, that was impressive. We can all dance, have fun, and hopefully learn, and that’s what A Tribe Called Red presented to the crowd.

A Tribe Called Red

Sunday
Actors – What’s Capitol Hill Block Party without taking in a good “goth band”? From the first song, I knew I was going to enjoy this group. I loved it when the lead singer said after asking the crowd if anyone knew who they were and they were answered with a one person cheer, “Just wondered cause there’s an absence of black t-shirts in the audience. We’re just a buncha goths out in the Summer.” Dude. The fact the group was wearing all black in direct sunlight in upper 80 degree weather was impressive (haha). I would describe their sound as danceable goth music. It felt like late 80’s New Wave with an edge. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one loving what I was seeing on stage. After Block Party I bought their album “It Will Come to You” and their EP “Reanimated”. I recommend checking these folks out.

Episcool – When I was deciding who to write about, I really wanted to keep my list to three acts per day. Deciding who I wanted to feature between Episcool and Nick Weaver was a pretty big decision for me. Nick Weaver is one of Seattle’s best currently active hip hop artists. I could have easily wrote about his performance, but instead I decided to focus on a performer I’ve never seen until I saw her performance at Block Party. Episcool came totally out of left field for me. She performed probably one of the most crowd energizing sets I saw that weekend. I just happened to be wandering into Barboza, noticed the room was packed, everyone was dancing hard, and there were no camera people covering the action. I feel like this set flew totally under the radar from the press covering the event. I made my way to the front, snagged some photos and videos, but the drops were just infectious. I found myself dancing alongside the rest of the crowd to this mix of dubstep and a kind of trance electronic beat. It was great and it truly felt like the energy of the crowd was fueling the set, despite Episcool being so focused on her craft.

(Upper left) Nick Weaver, (Upper right) Bear Axe, (Bottom) Actors

Razor Clam – The 9:00 to 10:00pm slot on Sunday was one of the tougher choices of the weekend. Within the same time slot you had Razor Clam, Cuco, Kung Foo Grip, and Marshall Law Band. With his awesome hairstyle, I figured Marshall Law Band would have drawn a large crowd to the Barboza basement. Cuco in particular was a performer some of the younger crowd had bought tickets to see. It came down to Kung Foo Grip and Razor Clam. I had seen both bands perform one other time before and even if Kung Foo Grip had a memorable show (I saw them perform at Bumbershoot in the KEXP open space), I hadn’t seen a performance at the Cha Cha stage during this Block Party, so I decided to see Razor Clam. I posted up next to one of the speakers and even if it was hot in that basement, once I saw lead singer Aya being carried to the front (which I think was improvised) I knew I made the right choice. There performance was a mix of femme glam rock and soft goth sentiments. I was dancing and just admiring the amount of confidence on display in their set. I do have to apologize to the lead singer. At one point, she asked the audience if she could get a sip of anyone’s drink. I let her have some of mine, but honestly I was hesitant to give her some as it was a cheap beer that had basically gotten warm in that hot basement, and probably did not taste great (haha). Otherwise, Razor Clam put on a fun memorable set, that I would recommend others check out live. Also, check out their EP. I’ve seen them twice and loved their song “ITB”. It wasn’t until I heard their EP, that I realized what that song is about (haha).

Razor Clam

This year’s Capitol Hill Block Party will go down for most as the year of Lizzo, but for me, I got to see a lot of performers who I would love to see perform again. I bought a lot of albums based on the performances I saw, and will keep an eye out for future line ups featuring those acts. Some performers did let me down, but the ones who shined, really shined. In a lot of cases, folks really exceeded expectations. With what was on display, I would be surprised if the stock of these performers didn’t go up after their sets at this year’s Capitol Hill Block Party.

For more videos and pictures from Capitol Hill Block Party weekend including moments I described here, check out my Instagram: Cakeintherain206

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryan G (@cakeintherain206)

5 Tips for People who “want to attend a lot of concerts and other events, while maintaining a professional career”

July 1, 2019 — Leave a comment

2017 was the first year I decided I would try to attend a live show, concert, festival, or event every single week. I attended 102 shows that year. It was so much fun, I decided to keep it going. 2018 I attended 84 shows. It’s 2019, and as of this writing I’ve attended at least 36 shows. A handful of folks at my day job know I do this, and the first question they usually ask is “How are you able to do this?”. I usually interpret that question as, how do you have the energy to keep a professional (enough) demeanor to perform at your day job, but also stay out late at these concerts and events?

The following are my 5 pieces of advice for people who “want to attend a lot of concerts and other events, while maintaining a professional career”:

5.) Plan ahead, Research, and Maintain a calendar. Maintaining a calendar is one of the best things you can do for yourself. On a weekly basis, I’ll check venue websites for shows I’d be interested in. I’ll purchase tickets months in advance and document everything in a calendar that way I know if plans conflict. If you’re trying to be professional at a job, it’s good to think ahead. I always request PTO, the Monday after a 3 day music festival because I know I’ll be exhausted and I won’t be able to perform. Make it fun for yourself (my calendar is a Thomas Kinkaide Disney Dreams calendar).

4.) Brag but don’t be a jerk about it. I think letting others know about the great show you attended the night before or letting them know about your excitement for an upcoming festival is perfectly fine, but know not everyone is having as much fun as you are. If you’re telling someone about how much fun you had or are looking forward to having and the person doesn’t seem receptive, then it’s not the worse thing in the world to not talk about it either. Brag but keep your audience in mind.

3.) You know your limits. Other than attending these events, I also go to a gym, in order to stay as physically fit as I can. In order to engage in a show properly, cheering, dancing, singing along, or even getting to the venue, it does take a level of physical fitness. I feel like people underestimate the amount of energy they use at a live event if they’re engaged the entire time. You probably blew a bunch of energy at your day job and going to a live show will only continue that energy burn. If you need to sit down at a show, leave early, or head to the back for water, you know your limits. These things are supposed to be fun, not a “Double Dare” style physical challenge.

2.) Be Nice, even if you’re tired. Speaks for itself.

1.) Set Time for yourself. You’re trying to balance a day job where you’re expected to arrive early and perform your function, with late nights having fun. The most important thing you can do for yourself is set time for yourself. Time to do nothing. Time to sleep in. Time to read. Time to be away from people. Take time to just pursue something for yourself. I usually set aside a few hours (or even a day or two) during the week where I don’t set any plans and just have alone time. I might go to one of my regular haunts (like MOHAI (above)) or I’ll just hang around my condo. Having a “reset” is never a bad thing, and setting time for yourself is always a great way to do that.