Thought and Opinion

It’s A Miracle

WaterWineI was never one of those people who was really big into miracles but in light of this morning’s circumstances, I might have to reconsider.

Here in the northeast, we’ve just finished digging out of the latest winter storm. One that dropped another eight inches of snow on a tired area of the nation longing for spring relief. Anyone who says snow is beautiful has obviously spent more time riding a sleigh than standing behind a shovel, and I spent much of last evening doing the latter; digging and snow-blowing a manageable path to get my car out for work the next day.

As usual, I left my house at 5 am this morning. The drive in to work was just as it always is after a snow storm: a slippery mess. But I always try to be cautious when it comes to driving in snow/ice conditions. I even have one of those little indicator lights in my car that alerts me when the car is slipping around.

The route I take to work travels eighteen miles on a normally busy highway. I’ll admit I was a bit concerned about the road conditions there, but was pleasantly surprised on my arrival to discover that the surfaces were completely clear for the most part.

I was driving along in the slow lane at a moderately reduced 35 mph, behind cars doing a similar rate of speed. It wasn’t long before I came upon a car ahead of me that had its four-way flashers going indicating that the driver was in some sort of distress and going extra slow. I slowly moved over into the passing lane to get around him and in retrospect, that was probably my first mistake. For instead of moving back over to the slow lane after I had passed the car, I chose to continue driving in the passing lane a little longer, a lane which had suddenly started to slow down.

It was at that moment that some knucklehead in the slow lane decided to move over into the passing lane and cut me off. Now, this is a maneuver I’ve experienced countless times in the past and one that would require me to hit my brakes to slow down in order to avoid an accident. On a warm spring day this could easily have been achieved, but obviously not in the beginning of February and on the morning after a snow storm.

In my attempt to slow down, I encountered some black ice on the road and immediately knew that there was going to be no way to avoid a collision. Although I was able to reduce speed I still struck the back-end of his car doing about 25 mph. Loud enough to hear the dreaded “THUD!” and knowing that damage was going to be done.

As our cars separated, I noticed through my windshield that the back-end of his car had suffered no damage at all following the fender bender. I realized that even though he was negligent for cutting me off, I would ultimately hold responsibility for the accident because I had rear-ended his car. As if that weren’t enough, to add insult to injury, the damage was going to be limited to just my car.

We both slowly pulled off of the highway. All the while I was not only thinking about the safety of the driver, but also about the extensive damage that had been done to my car. I saw visions of police officers arriving at the scene and endless calls to claims adjusters in my future, not to mention the fact that I was also going to be late for work. I clicked on my hazard lights and slowly got out of the car.

That’s when something I still can’t explain happened.

I looked at the front end of my car and there was not a scratch. Huh?? After hitting his car at 25 mph and hearing the dreaded WHOMP, there was not even a mark. Not a scratch, dent, ding or split in the bumper. Both cars had zero damage. It was almost as if I had rear ended a pillow.

The other driver and I stood in the cold glare of our four-way flashers dumbfounded over what had just happened. As big semi trucks and snow plows trudged by us in the early morning hour, we both knew that what had experienced could not be explained.

We both shook hands and exchanged phone numbers in case something went wrong, but I don’t think it will. It certainly wasn’t a miracle in a sense of turning water into wine or having a life long disease suddenly being cured, but it does make you think.

Sometimes even in the throes of the worst winters, good things happen.

1980's, A Conversation With, Music

Keyboardist Geoff Downes Discusses New Dance Orchestra, Asia

GeoffDownesDo you remember where you were when you first heard it? I do. It was June of 1982 and I was sitting in seventh grade music class during one of the last days before summer vacation.

The school was one of those two-story brick structures that had no air conditioning and by mid-morning temperatures in the classroom had risen to almost unbearable levels. The open windows and portable fans that circulated hot air throughout the classroom provided little relief to a bunch of teenagers waiting for that final bell to sound.

As a sort-of end of year gift to the class, the teacher allowed students to bring in some of their albums to listen to while we cleared out our desks. That was when this kid named Danny put it on the turntable. As needle met vinyl and the crackling hum and hiss began, it was the first time I heard that now infamous guitar riff and opening line:

“I never meant to be so bad to you. One thing I said that I would never do …”

“Heat of The Moment” became the coolest thing ever to me on that apropos day. The day I joined the eventual 8 million other people who bought the band Asia’s debut album.

Since then, I’ve been a fan of keyboardist Geoff Downes. Not only for his experimentation of all things keyboard, but also for his songwriting ability. In addition to having the best selling album of 1982 with Asia, Downes also holds the coveted distinction of being part of the very first video ever played on MTV (Video Killed The Radio Star).

Today, in between his work with Asia and Yes, Downes finds time to work on other projects as well. His most recent, New Dance Orchestra’s “Electronica” features the phenomenal vocals of Anne-Marie Helder (Panic Room, Mostly Autumn) and utilizes sounds from the latest computer technology. The result is a collection of virtual orchestrations that defy standard definition. Blending elements of classical, new age, pop and electronica, Downes uses rich textures to take the listener on a journey of spiritual enlightenment.

I spoke with Downes about Electronica as well as the forthcoming Asia album Gravitas, which features founding members Downes (keyboards), John Wetton (bass) and Carl Palmer (drums) as well as new guitarist Sam Coulson. He also tells me about some of the most memorable moments of his career.

NDOElectronicaHow would you describe the sound of Electronica?

It’s a good combination of a lot of the influences I’ve had over the years. From my time with The Buggles to session work and some of the other projects I’ve been involved with like Yes and Asia. It’s a nice variety of music and an amalgamy of many of the things that I’ve been through over the course of my career.

How do you approach songwriting for a project like New Dance Orchestra as opposed to one for Asia or Yes?

When I create songs for New Dance Orchestra, there’s a lot of experimentation that I like to do. Some of the material comes from me tinkering with the latest sounds on computers. I’m very much into the technical aspect of the keyboard and like to experiment a lot with them.

How did you connect with Anne-Marie Helder?

I had worked with Anne-Marie on the Icon project I did with John Wetton. She came in and did vocals on a few of the tracks. She’s one of the top prog-rock vocalists and is very much in demand. 

To listen to samples from Electronica, Click Here

Asia: Gravitas (2014)
Asia: Gravitas (2014)

When Steve Howe announced his retirement as guitarist for Asia, was there ever a moment where the band thought about slowing down?

The rest of us always felt that it was worth continuing. Steve has his reasons for wanting to move on and concentrate more on his solo material. He’s pretty much been on the road for the last seven years doing solo material and his trio in addition to having the extra pressure of Yes and Asia. He felt it was time to try other things, which is fine.

We brought in Sam (Coulson), who was recommended to us by Paul Gilbert. He’s a different type of player from Steve and brings with him his own sound. The actual emphasis was never to change direction but to evolve.

What can you tell us about the new Asia album, Gravitas?

We finished the album just before Christmas and it’s going to be released the last week of March. The cover was once again designed by Roger Dean. It’s another Asia album with songs written by myself and John Wetton.

What’s the writing process like when you and John get together?

Generally, we’ll both come in and open our ‘war chests’ of musical ideas. Whenever we get together in a session, it’s rare that we don’t come out of it with at least one or two songs.

Can you tell me the origin of “Only Time Will Tell”?

That one started off with what became the chorus part. It was something I had actually written for a jingle company. I had the basic idea for what became the chorus and I played it for John. That’s when he said “Hey, I think I’ve got something that might go with that” and started playing me the first verse. Originally, the song was going to be called “Starry Eyed”.  It was a very in-depth collaboration with a very proggy, sentimental arrangement. It’s one of my favorite pieces that we’ve ever done in terms of Asia’s history because it has such depth and texture to it.

When The Buggles released “Video Killed The Radio Star” did you have a feeling of how special it was going to be?

We knew that it was a great song and a great record when we finished it. Trevor Horn and I both thought that if we were ever going to have a hit, this one would be it. I remember we presented it to Island Records and they were a bit skeptical. They didn’t even really like the name “The Buggles” either, but it ended up being our first major hit in the UK.

Have you ever given thought to writing a book chronicling your life?

I’ve been thinking about that recently. It really has been an amazing journey and is something I’ll definitely be looking into… when I have the time [laughs].

With all of your success with The Buggles, Yes, Asia, New Dance Orchestra and all of your other projects, is there anything that stands out as most memorable?

There are so many. Obviously, you have to look at the first Buggles album because it was the one that introduced me into the business. The Drama album is very satisfying because more and more die-hard Yes fans can relate to that album as time has gone by.

Then of course there’s the first Asia album.

I’ll never forget sitting in the car with John Wetton. We had just arrived in the States shortly after the album had come out and “Heat of The Moment” was playing on the radio. I remember we changed the channel and at that exact moment another station was playing “Only Time Will Tell.” To have those tracks both playing simultaneously on two different radio stations in the same city was surreal. At that moment we both knew what we had was going to be something really special.

For more on Geoff Downes:

Geoff Downes Official Website * ASIA Official Website * Yes Official Website

Interview, Movies and TV

True Beauty: Model And Actress Denise Bidot Discusses Career

DeniseBidot2Model and actress Denise Bidot is turning heads and making statements, not only for her beauty but also for her radiant charm. The international Plus Sized Model and mom has traveled the world, working with many of the industry’s top clients such as Macys, Old Navy, Lane Bryant and Forever 21.

Bidot also stars on Nuvo Tv’s hit show “Curvy Girls”, which provides an all-access pass inside the glamorous world of professional modeling. The show has garnered a huge following of fans since its debut, receiving praise for highlighting a different side of the modeling world and for encouraging women to embrace their bodies no matter what shape or size.

Much like the show, Bidot’s own story is one of inspiration and letting nothing stand in the way of success. I spoke with her about how she got her start, what a typical day is like in the life of a model and how true beauty really does come from within.

How did you get your start in modeling?

I was one of those kids growing up who was always enamored by the whole aspect of entertainment and all of the glitz and glamor associated with it. I knew what I wanted to do early on so I started taking acting classes. When I was 18, I decided to move to LA and started going to auditions. I remember everyone I met kept telling me that I had a lot of charisma and that I was so much of a “leading lady” person, but my body type was something that wasn’t quite what they were looking for.

Seeing that it was an industry that I wanted to be in, my mom convinced me to go back to school for makeup and I eventually started doing freelance work for a plus sized model for a photo shoot. That was when a photographer asked me if I’d be interested in modeling for her as well. I had never done anything like that before but the next thing you know, I’m shooting pictures with her and before long started getting calls for work. It was really one of those right place at the right time type of stories. It’s been an amazing journey of self discovery and a dream come true.

What are some of the things you’ve learned about being a Plus Sized Model?

I think there’s something to be said about what’s lacking in fashion and for me, it’s great to be a part of something that’s at the forefront of change. It’s really all about embracing every woman and the diversity of her shape, ethnicity and age. Of course, I would prefer to just be called “model”, but it’s the technicality of it right now with fashion. Hopefully it will eventually be dropped but right now it’s cool to be involved with fashion in a way that people don’t necessarily expect.

What’s a typical photo shoot like?

A lot of people think it’s all glitz and glamor but there’s really a lot of work and travel involved as well. We’ll usually get up in the morning and have our hair and makeup done (the fun part), but over the course of the day there may be as many as 20 or 30 different changes. It’s a definite workout for ten hours, but as a woman it’s the best job in the world. You get to play dress-up and feel amazingly empowered.

Who are some of the people who inspire you?

There are a lot of women who inspire me. I’m a big fan of Jennifer Lopez. As a Latino woman, it’s remarkable what she’s achieved. I admire her for her production work, music and film. She’s been able to grasp the whole realm of the industry. I also love Penelope Cruz, Jessica Alba and Sophia Vergara. Women who’ve learned not only to love themselves but have also inspired others to love themselves as well.

DeniseBidot3What does your daughter think about your career?

My daughter is a princess and thinks that what I do is so cool. But she also sees first hand that you have to really work hard for what you want. That nothing is impossible and real beauty can come in many different ways. It’s a great journey and I’m so thankful to be able to share it with her.

What advice can you give to women who are self conscious about themselves or think they’re never “good enough”?

First, you need to stop thinking that you’re not perfect. Sometimes the media tries to make people believe that there is that “perfect” woman but the truth is, there isn’t. You need to be happy with who you are; with none of the make-up, hair extensions or fancy clothes. It’s about the woman inside. Every woman has her own specialness and nothing is impossible. I like to say, “There’s no wrong way to be a woman.” But don’t just say it. Believe it!

Do you have other interests outside of modeling?

I love art, movies, painting and playing in the park with my daughter. There’s so much beauty and things that can be done in the world. I’m still growing as a woman and learning about who I am.

For more info on Curvy Girls Click Here

Click Here For Denise Bidot’s Official Website

1980's, Guitar World Interviews, Music

Stryper Frontman Michael Sweet Announces Solo Album / Autobiography

sweetMichael Sweet, frontman for the multi-platinum rock band Stryper, will release a new full-length solo album, I’m Not Your Suicide, and his first autobiography, Honestly: My Life and Stryper Revealed, on May 6, 2014, via BIG3 Records.

Sweet is best known as the singer, guitarist, songwriter and producer for Christian rock pioneers Stryper, selling over 10 million albums worldwide. In addition to Stryper, Sweet has had a successful solo career, and he served as the guitarist and co-vocalist for the legendary classic rock band BOSTON from 2007-2011.

The future remains bright for a man who has endured heartbreaking tribulations throughout his life and career, including the 2009 passing of his wife of more than 22 years, Kyle. In 2010, Sweet remarried to Lisa Champagne-Sweet, a woman he describes as “a Godsend and the one who fits perfectly by my side.”

Sweet continues to record and tour with Stryper, as well as touring and recording as a solo artist, all the while making frequent trips to Nashville where he is writing with some of the biggest music writers in the business.

“After 30 years in this business, I feel honored and blessed to be able to continue doing what it is I love, making music,” said Sweet. “I’m extremely thankful to have the greatest fans in the world. God has blessed me with this talent and I plan to continue on this path as long as I can draw breath.”

Fans can get a sneak peak at the album courtesy of the all-new lyric video for the song, “The Cause” below:

Sweet’s autobiography, Honestly: My Life and Stryper Revealed, chronicles an amazing 30-year career and includes endorsements from Eddie Trunk, Dave Mustaine, Larry the Cable Guy, Jeordie White and Chris Jericho. Among the topics covered are:

  • How Michael Sweet formed the first Christian rock band to hit #1 on MTV, paving the way for an entire genre of music.
  • First-hand stories of the Sunset Strip, with never-before-told stories that include friends and musical peers such as Poison, Motley Crue, RATT, Whitesnake, Metallica and more.
  • How Jimmy Swaggart and Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker played a role in Michael’s life.
  • The temptations and ultimate low-points of a notable Christian rock star.
  • Never-before-revealed stories of life behind the scenes in Stryper.
  • Why so many people have declared Michael Sweet a significant influence on their lives; from Larry the Cable Guy to professional wrestler Chris Jericho to Haitian musician and politician Wyclef Jean and more.
  • Losing his wife to cancer and re-marrying shortly thereafter.
  • An honest look at Sweet’s often tumultuous family relationships.
  • The unlikely relationship between Sweet and national radio personality Don Imus.
  • What led to the decline and fall of Stryper in 1992, and subsequent reunion and re-birth in 2001.

The new Michael Sweet website has also launched with a free preview of Chapter One of the upcoming book.

With the upcoming and long-overdue solo album, Sweet is finally delivering the project fans have been patiently waiting for. Self-produced, I’m Not Your Suicide includes special appearances by Tony Harnell (TNT), Kevin Max (dcTalk, Audio Adrenaline), Chris Jericho, Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake), Electra Mustaine (daughter of Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine) and Stryper bandmates Robert Sweet and Timothy Gaines. Legendary drummer Kenny Aronoff played on the record as well. Track Listing for I’m Not Your Suicide:

  • Taking on the World Tonight (featuring Tony Harnell)
  • All That’s Left (For Me To Prove)
  • The Cause
  • This Time (featuring Kevin Max)
  • I’m Not Your Suicide (co-written with Blair Daly)
  • Coming Home
  • Miles Away
  • Strong
  • How to Live (featuring Robert Sweet and Timothy Gaines of Stryper)
  • Heart of Gold
  • Anybody Else (featuring Chris Jericho and Doug Aldrich)
  • Unsuspecting
  • Heart of Gold (featuring Electra Mustaine) **Bonus Track

You can read my most recent Guitar World Interview with Sweet by Clicking Here!

For more information on Michael Sweet visit www.MichaelSweet.com.

Interview, Movies and TV

Actor Tyler Alvarez Discusses New Show, ‘Every Witch Way’

TylerAlvarezActor Tyler Alvarez is stealing tween hearts on the new Nickelodeon series, Every Witch Way.

Based on a successful, award-winning Latin American series, Every Witch Way tells the story of a girl named Emma who moves to a new town and discovers she’s a witch with magical powers. Tyler stars as Diego Rueda, a mysterious teenager on his own journey of self-discovery, complete with his own set of special super powers.

Diego is a “Churi Kanay” or “The Son of Fire”, which means he has the power to control the elements. Figuring out how to make use of his new-found abilities while trying to fit in is what makes Tyler’s character so interesting and compelling. Every Witch Way may be a show about witches, rivalry and magic, but it’s also one about the true power of friendship and love.

In real life, Tyler is a normal everyday sixteen year old who enjoys hanging with friends, going to concerts and tearing it up on Xbox One. I spoke to him about his role on Every Witch Way as well as what a typical day is like on the set and why he decided to make a career out of acting.

How would you describe Every Witch Way to someone who may not know about it?

It’s a show about friendship, love and a lot of magic gone wrong. That’s where a lot of the comedy comes from. It’s completely different from anything anyone has ever seen before in a kid’s television show.

What attracted you to the role of Diego Rueda?

I thought it would be fun to play a role where magic’s involved. Growing up, I always wanted to be one of those kids who could fly or have super powers and in this show, I have them. 

Was there something “magical” about how you landed the role?

I actually wound up booking the show on the same day the Mayans said the world was supposed to end [December 21st, 2012]. So there was a time where I was like, “Oh great, I’m going to book this job and then I’m going to die!” [laughs].

What can you tell me about Diego?

Diego is a Kanay and the Son of Fire. He’s the only boy on the show that can control the elements like fire, wind and ice. He just recently discovered that he has powers and is still learning how to use and control them. A lot of the time, it spirals out of control and actually endangers his friends and things go wrong. He’s funny and sarcastic. Unlike me, he’s also a clean freak. If he had a room, it would be completely neat and tidy, whereas my room right now looks like a war zone! [laughs].

What’s a typical day like on the set?

It depends on the day’s schedule. Usually, I’ll get there and we’ll have school for a few hours and then go straight to hair and makeup. Then we’ll run the lines a few times and finally, we’ll shoot. It’s very fast. On other sets you might have rehearsals and table reads, but we have none of that. It’s more soap-opera format.

Are there any differences between set school and regular school?

Absolutely. Number one is that there’s access to Kraft Services 24/7. So I’m usually eating my face off whenever I’m in school [laughs]. Another thing is that I’m allowed to have my phone, which I’m not allowed to have in regular school. But the thing I really love about set school is that I’m able to learn so much better because of the private one on one.

What’s the chemistry like with your cast mates?

The chemistry is great. We’re all really close and are like one big family. We all see each other six days a week and hang out together.

What do you like to do when you’re not acting?

I love going to comedy clubs, concerts and movies. Just doing random things with friends and being a regular teenager. Sometimes I love to get away from the entertainment industry and acting because I like to be grounded and remember just who I am.

What sparked your desire to make a career out of acting?

I’ve always liked to entertain people and make them laugh. When I was younger, my mom signed me up for an acting class and I remember it was so much fun that I knew right then that I had to continue on and make a career out of it. I really believe that if you love what you do, you’ll never have to actually “work” a day in your life.

For more on Tyler Alvarez and Every Witch Way Click Here!

Interview, Movies and TV, Music

Dance of Life: Amy Weber Talks New Single and The Power Of Music

AmyWeber-DanceOfLifeSinger, model and actress Amy Weber’s new single, “Dance of Life” is more than just a passionately inspired track. The duet with Sean Kingston is a selfless escape from the worries of the world. Weber’s infectious vocal prowess combined with Kingston’s inventive effects produces a hypnotic sound and groove that’s refreshingly honest.

“Dance of Life” isn’t the beautiful brunette’s first foray into the musical arena. Weber’s previous single, “Let it Rain” [released in 2012] shot up to #6 on the U.K Music Week Chart as well as landing her on the Billboard Top 40.

Country music fans may also remember Weber as the “Whiskey Girl” from singer Toby Keith’s video of the same name from 2004. A video where she not only got to showcase her beauty, but also her real life welding ability.

Weber’s own story is one of true inspiration. Overcoming a troubled childhood as well as bouts with cancer; she’s become one of the most sought after entertainers in the industry today. With plans well underway for more music as well as a national tour this year, her star will only continue to shine.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Weber about the new single as well as her inspirational life and her Whiskey Girl days.

How did this single and collaboration with Sean Kingston come about?

I had a few tracks that hadn’t been released and a wish list of people who I wanted to work with. Sean, of course was one of them. I remember I was working on a different shoot and mentioned my short list to a few of the people who were there. That’s when they said “Oh, we know Sean!” and wound up introducing us. It’s crazy the way things work out. I thought we already had a great song, but when Sean came on he gave it a new vibe and took it to a whole new level.

What was the writing process like?

I co-wrote it with the Jackie Boyz, who won a Grammy with Madonna’s song, “Revolver”. We have this great synergy whenever we write together. First, they’ll come up with a line, then I’ll come back with the next two lines. We’ll go back and forth bouncing ideas off of each other and literally within two hours we’ll have an entire track written. Then after a few more hours, one that’s recorded and ready to be mixed.

Is there a meaning behind your songs?

For me, everything that I do is really purposeful in my life. Whether it’s as an actress, recording or producing a movie, there always has to be something that I leave with someone. As far as music goes, I’m really big with escapism. We’re all so buried underneath the issues and drama of life that I’m always looking for ways to help people escape. Even if it’s just for those three or four minutes of a song. You can really get lost in the moment and forget where your troubles are.

What was it like filming the video for the song?

I remember it was one of those really cold, blustery nights and we were on top of this super tall skyscraper downtown on a stage. It was amazing.

Do you have plans to tour this year?

My heart and soul is into making music and performing live so touring is definitely on my list. I already have a few shows coming up and The Jackie Boyz and I are looking into putting a mini-tour together. 

Back in 2004 you were the “Whiskey Girl” in Toby Keith’s video. What can you tell me about that experience?

We filmed that in Nashville and it was an awesome experience. Toby actually wrote that entire video because he wanted more of a story instead of it just being him on camera the entire time. One of the cool things about it was that I already knew how to weld for real. I remember standing there watching the crew struggle, trying to figure out how to get the welding machine going. Finally I said, “Here, just give it me!” [laughs].

Did you always want to be involved in music?

I knew early on. I had an incredibly tough upbringing and was able to escape through music. I like to say that music literally saved my life.

How so?

As a child, just being able to escape into a different world really helped me. Then later on in life, I ended up getting cancer. With being that sick and having to go through chemotherapy treatments by myself, I don’t know what I would have done without music. It was my savior.

Do you have any advice you can offer to those who may want to pursue a career in entertainment?

Be passionate. If you have passion inside of you, the drive to succeed is naturally going to come. Also, make sure you’re pursuing it for the right reasons. Otherwise, you’re going to burn out quickly. That really goes for anything you do in life.

What other projects are you working on?

I have a TV show that I created called “Good Samaritans”. It’s a feel-good, hidden camera show. There’s a company that I’ve partnered up with and we’re hoping to find a home in 2014. The show puts people in circumstances to see if they’re going to help others. Unlike other shows, it’s not so much about morality, but more about humanity. In this show, you really have to go out of your way to help somebody, and it’s all captured on hidden camera.

AmyWeber

Your story is so inspirational. Have you ever given thought to writing a book about your life?

I’ve been thinking about it. I recently opened up for the first time about my cancer on The Doctors. I wanted it to be in a forum where I can help people by opening up about the struggles that I’ve faced in my life. We’re all here for a reason, and I certainly can’t imagine going through everything that I’ve been through and not sharing it. I’m still on my feet, and hope that my experiences can guide others and let them know that if I can get through it, they can get through it too.

For more on Amy Weber be sure to check out her official website by Clicking Here!

Guitar World Interviews, Interview, Music

Til Death Do Us Part: Tony West Discusses Life, Death and Blacklist Union

Blacklist Union’s Tony West has seen more than his share of tragedy over the course of his lifetime. After an abusive childhood and a move to Hollywood at age 13, West had to overcome personal adversity, drug abuse and much more in order to rise to the top.

Tony WestThrough luck and hard work, West managed to make a career out of music. Although his is a true story of rock and roll in the streets, it’s an upbringing he certainly wouldn’t recommend to anyone else.

Blacklist Union’s most recent album, 2012’s Til Death Do Us Part, continues West’s trend of honest, high-energy rock. With its guest appearances by Wayne Swinny (Saliva) and Jon E. Love (Love/Hate), the album’s killer riffs, combined with West’s thought-provoking lyrics, create a powerful wall of emotion.

West dedicated the album to former Alice In Chains bassist Mike Starr, who died in 2011. As a result, Til Death Do Us Part becomes more than just a tribute to one of his longtime friends; it’s therapeutic art and a constant reminder that life is fragile.

I spoke with West about Til Death Do Us Part, his own life and what’s next for Blacklist Union.

GUITAR WORLD: What’s the process like when it comes to writing a Blacklist Union album?

There’s really no set in stone process. We’ve written songs together as a band in rehearsal, and sometimes I’ll get music handed to me and I’ll write something to it. Then there are times where I’ll just sit down with a guitar player and write out the record. There’s no one set way of doing things.

gw_logoRead the rest of my Guitar World interview with Tony West by Clicking Here!

1980's, Life, Sports, Thought and Opinion

My Thoughts on The NFC Championship

SeahawksLogoI wanted to write this post well before tonight’s NFC Championship; lest anyone think that I might be one of those phony bandwagon fans who only jump on board when a team is doing well and then disappears when the wheels fall off the bus. That’s hardly the case with me. I’ve been an east coast Seattle Seahawks fan for thirty years.

That’s right, I said thirty years.

It all began back in the early 80s. I was one of those disappointed Philadelphia Eagles fans lost in the wilderness and looking for a new home after a bitter, painful defeat at the hands of some dude named Plunkett and the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XV. Ok, I’ll admit I was one of those creeps who ditched the ship when it sank, just like the ones I opened this post talking about. But in my defense, I was only twelve years old at the time and didn’t know any better.

Yeah, let’s go with that.

CenturyLink-MeIt was a cold Monday night a few years after that Super Bowl when I first saw the Seattle Seahawks on television. At the time, I had absolutely no idea who they were. They had some left-handed quarterback (Jim Zorn), a wiry, fast as lightning receiver (Steve Largent) and this rookie running back from Penn State named Curt Warner. A “hometown” connection.

I couldn’t even tell you the team that they played that night. All I remember is that the Seahawks lost the coin toss and started the game out with an on-side kick. An on-side kick!!! Something almost unheard of in the NFL.

The Seahawks wound up getting the ball and scoring on that drive….and the seed was planted.

As you can imagine, the 1980’s were a time before the Internet and satellite football games became common place. So getting to see my new team was nearly impossible. About the only time I ever saw them on TV was when they played against the Eagles or New York Giants, and considering that the Seahawks were in the other conference at the time, those games were even rarer.

The Seahawks actually almost made it to their first Super Bowl the first year of my fandom, but lost to (ironically enough) the Oakland Raiders in the conference final. But this time, instead of ditching I stayed a fan. Reading updates in the newspaper about loss after loss. Some years good. Some years, very bad.

In 1992, we were so bad that we were awarded the #2 overall pick in the NFL. A time when we were in dire need of a quarterback. We wound up with a bust named Rick Mirer, while the New England Patriots got this guy named Drew Bledsoe (the “parent” QB to Tom Brady).

More years of mediocrity would follow, but I stood tall.

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I was there when Seahawks owner Ken Behring tried to move the team out-of-town to California in the dead of night. That attempt failed and Behring would eventually sell the team to Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. With Allen on board, the team hired Green Bay Packers coach Mike Holmgren and a slew of other talent, planting the seed for a run to greatness that came to fruition in 2005.

SeahawksHatDuring my time as a 12th man there has only been one low point, and that was Super Bowl XL against the Pittsburgh Steelers. As any fan of the NFL will tell you (and even Steeler fans too, if they’re honest), the referees decided that game. For me, it was stinging. Imagine waiting 23 years for a shot at a Super Bowl and then being cheated by a bunch of turds in pinstripes.

The thing is, in the NFL there are no guarantees and the days of dynasty left once the salary cap was initiated. You only have so much time to make a run before players and coaches leave for other pastures. Unfortunately, that’s what happened to my team following that “defeat”.

It’s taken eight years for the Seahawks to get back to the NFC Championship game. Eight long, often-times miserable years. But I never lost hope. I watched as Marshawn Lynch caused an earthquake with one of the greatest runs in NFL history and knew that the stars were aligning again….

I even took a weekend 2,856-mile trip to Seattle by myself two-years ago just to see them play the Atlanta Falcons. The first time I was ever a part of the 12th man.

They lost.

I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am for this game. I’ve even been having dreams at night this past week where the game is on and I am sitting around checking the score. Every time I looked, the score was changing. Thankfully, we were winning.

I don’t know what’s going to happen when it’s all over. Hopefully, dreams do come true. But all I can ask is that the refs let it be settled on the field. And may the better team then kick the sh$t out of the Patriots or Broncos.

Go Hawks!

Movies and TV, Thought and Opinion

Grammy Nominated Comedian Ron White Gets ‘A Little Unprofessional’

RonWhiteHe’s sold more than 14 million albums (both solo and with the Blue Collar Comedy Tour) with all four of them charting at #1 on Billboard. He’s one of the top grossing stand-up comedians in America today and has already earned himself two Grammy nominations.

Make that three.

Comedian Ron White has recently received a third Grammy nomination for his RIAA Platinum-certified Comedy Special, “A Little Unprofessional”.

Filmed in Austin, TX at the legendary Paramount Theatre, ‘A Little Unprofessional’ shows White’s comedic nature on full display. He takes us on a journey from the airport at LAX to a vacation retreat in the French Riviera and along the way, discusses adventures from his youth, sports, music and of course, his own sexual prowess. Whether he’s casually taking a sip of his scotch or lighting up a cigar be warned: no one is immune to White’s hilarious anecdotes.

In addition to the full  “A Little Unprofessional” special, the DVD also contains the entire first season of White’s popular “Rontourage” fan program, which features behind the scenes footage of White and his troops traveling across America. Through these shorts, we’re able to get a first-hand glimpse of what it’s like for the entertainer backstage, on the tour bus and interacting with his fans at meet and greet events.

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One of the biggest hidden treasures of “A Little Unprofessional” has got to be the bonus feature live performances of White’s amazing wife, Margo Rey. Although Rey herself is not spared from White’s stand-up material, she showcases her awe-inspiring vocals in a hybrid mixture of pop, jazz and R&B that can only be described as Organica.

The thing that sets Ron White apart from all other stand-up performers today is his unique ability to impose empathy on his audience. Sure, you laugh hysterically at his stories and facial expressions, and may even at times feel a little bit sorry for him. But deep down, the real reason we enjoy him so much is because there’s a little bit of Ron White in each of us. Somehow, we can all relate to everything he talks about during his routine.

White’s performances don’t just make us laugh with him, they make us laugh at ourselves. And in times like these, that’s certainly a good thing.

***

For more on Ron White, check out his official website by Clicking Here.

 

Games, Interview, Movies and TV

Actress Michal Sinnott Discusses Her Role In Grand Theft Auto 5
Michal Sinnott (Photo credit: Braden Moran)
Michal Sinnott (Photo credit: Braden Moran)

I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with many different actors, authors and artists about their current and upcoming projects, but perhaps none of them has been cooler or more unique than actress Michal Sinnott. Let’s face it; it’s not every day you get the opportunity to talk to someone who’s played a role in what’s poised to become the best-selling video game of all time.

It was recently revealed that Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto 5 broke seven Guinness world records, including the highest revenue generated by an entertainment product in 24 hours.

Michal’s role of Tracey De Santa in GTA 5 is truly one of a kind. It’s acting, but not something you’d see in a typical film or theatrical role. Michal actually describes the experience as a hybrid combination of the two. Working exactly like the actors in Avatar, each was rigged up to get their performances captured in 3-D and then have those recorded images digitally transferred into the game world.

In my interview with Michal, we discuss her role in GTA 5 as well as how she got her start and the projects she’s currently working on.

What attracted you to such a unique project?

It was Rockstar so I knew that it would be a quality project. It was a cool opportunity that turned out to be an amazing experience. Way more that I had anticipated.

Were you presented with an actual storyline or script – like one you’d get for a film?

Not exactly. They really tried to tell you as little about it as possible [laughs]. I knew it was a character, but I was only getting my material and not the whole picture. They really wanted to have everyone focus on their own part. There are thousands of pages of dialogue in this game and it takes hundreds of hours to complete, not to mention that there were so many people involved in working on the project. If you watch the credits, it takes about twenty minutes to go through them. It’s a massive amount of information. But once you know the character and know the world, you can focus on doing the best job possible. Then it all magically comes together.

How do you prepare for a project like this?

The research I had done on Grand Theft Auto couldn’t really prepare me for it. The cool thing about the series is that it’s always different with new characters and new worlds. My character, Tracey may not be the most complicated person in the world, but there’s a larger than life quality to her. She wants to be a celebrity but doesn’t have any talent. She’s one of those people who’s really focused on having everyone look at her. She’s got really big needs and thinks everything is so tragic. Tragic in a sense that she can’t find the right color nail polish [laughs]. The fun of it was being able to take it on fully and have those extreme emotions over something so petty and small. In reality, that kind of behavior could lead to an awful life, or at least alienate you from your friends. It was cool to go and explore and then still be able to walk away unscathed.

What was the filming process like?

We would usually shoot for a three-week period and then take a few months off. Then we’d start up again. The entire process took somewhere in the realm of three years to complete. Along the way, I would always be given clues about who Tracey is. I remember that every time I would come back for another shoot I’d get the script of new material and say “Oh cool! This is who this person is!” 

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How would you describe performance capture as it relates to typical acting mediums?

I think it lies somewhere in between the realms of film and theater. You wear the balls [the same technology that was used in Avatar] and you have a camera recording your facial gestures. The balls help process the movement so that they can be transformed into a 3D image of you. Your movements also have to be larger than life, so there has to be a sense of theatricality to it. When you’re angry, you really have to stomp! It’s almost like you’re a cartoon character. You also film on a sound stage and don’t really have a backdrop when you’re shooting. It’s acting without any stimulus. So you have to learn to fill that void with your imagination. To see that world and realize what all the technical people did to fill that world is amazing.

When did you realize you really wanted to pursue acting?

I went to a performing arts high school and had written a play that ended up winning a festival and I got to go to a playwright conference. Just being on the other side and having my work not be so personal really opened me up to how magical it is to really live out your dreams and pursue what you want. I remember being out in the audience watching this play and realized in that moment that I couldn’t deny myself this life. After that, I never looked back. I majored in theater in college, moved to New York and went full throttle. I’ve been at it ever since.

What other projects are you working on?

I’m an associate producer on a biopic about Rick James that I’ll also have a role in as well. Right now, we’re in talks with a production company and it’s coming along really well. It’s been exciting to get the opportunity to wear a lot of different hats and work the other side. It feeds your understanding of the business.

I also like to blog. It’s something that I started doing as a way to share with my friends, family and other actors the inner workings of what it’s like to be an actor growing on her path. It’s funny, quirky and a little bit spiritual.

For more info on Michal Sinnott be sure to check out her website by Clicking Here!