Scenic Route...

 "Where in the hell are we and who owns all these cows?"

This weekend Jamie and I took the scenic route up to San Francisco to visit with some friends. We love road trips and we ecstatic that we had extra time to take the long way up the coast. We cruised up the PCH for hours past countless forgotten beach towns and cattel farms. It's amazing how many cows there are wondering the golden hills of California. Honestly, who the hell do they belong too? 

When we finally ran out of gas, which always seems to happen happens when you are about 80 miles from the nearest gas station, we found King City.  We didn't getting to spend much time there but we were able to find this actual general store and meandered the dusty aisles for souvenirs. This was a true truck stop but we had the sense this was the kind of town that the Disney/Pixar movie Cars was based on. The owner was elated that we were there, showed us around, petted our dog and even threw in a free frisbee with our purchases.

What was your last road trip? 

Record Store Day at The Record Parlour...

Want to dig through crates of quality vintage records? Find music you grew up with? Discover music you never knew existed and discuss it with other music enthusiasts? The Record Parlour on Selma Avenue in the heart of Hollywood is a one-stop shop for all things music. They specialize in hunting down vinyl records, cassettes, old school turntables, and band memorabilia creating a culture of community that the neighborhood desperately needs. Attracting everyone who has a passion for the music, with over 20,000 vinyl records, vintage stereo gear and music memorabilia, the Record Parlour is quickly becoming a staple hang out for the surrounding hipster youth.

Since it opened, almost two years ago by owner Chris Honetschlaeger and manager/partner Chadwick Hemus, the store has been building a name for itself by hosting exciting in-store showcases, pop-up performance gigs, album playbacks and DJ sets to entire live performances recorded and transferred directly to vinyl onsite. Honetschlaeger has a background in vintage equipment and Hemu’s pedigree is as a vinyl curator for the original Amoeba (San Francisco)—which ensures that the sound and quality are outstanding.

Rooms and rooms and rooms filled and organized with albums...

For Record Store Day on Saturday, April 18 The Record Parlour hosted a series of events and live performances kicking off the celebration with the debut vinyl collection from the estate of philanthropist Marshall Howard. The heavily curated collection features extremely rare original finds—including Jazz, R&B, Classic Rock, Soul, Blues, Exotica and Folk. Bands that performed included Isaac Rother & The Phantoms, Lee Bob and The Truth and Big Jay McNeely & Rob Stone: Chicago Blues; and there was a book signing of Record Store Book: Fifty Legendary and Iconic Places to Discover New and Used Vinyl by author Mike E. Spitz and photographer Rebecca Villaneda.

We had a chance to sit down with Honetschlaeger to see what makes The Record Parlour tick.

M2M: How long have you been serving the community?

Honetschlaeger: We opened August 2013, so a little over a year and half. It took me four months to build. It was all offices before. I basically knocked out all the walls to keep the space open. The idea was this building has so much history being an old print shop in the 20’s. If you look around Hollywood these buildings are going away with all the development going on. We just basically came in here and reconfigured the whole joint.

M2M: What makes The Record Parlour different from other record stores?

Honetschlaeger: I don’t think we’re a record store at all. We’re a record / lifestyle store. I am not offended by the record store [title] but I just think we are bigger than that and here’s why, the three P’s: Purchase, Perform and Produce. That’s the vision here. We go past the one-dimensional place to purchase music. The second “P” stands for “place to perform music.” We built a stage and an incredible sound system. We have had little bands and big bands play here and they tell us it sounds amazing. It sounds amazing because we make it amazing. Venues operate 24/7. If a speaker goes out they can’t get to it for two weeks. I have a tech on staff, so if something goes out, it’s fixed immediately. Also, we don’t stack bands. There is only one band per night, except for today, which is special because of Record Store Day. One band per night gives the band time to hang out and sell their merchandise. If you have ever been a musician it can be pretty hectic to be rushed around. The third “P,” which we started rolling out in January, stands for “a place to produce music.’ So downstairs, right below us, is going to be our control room. So literally you come play, cut a record on our record lave, perform it that day and sell your records. Again, Purchase, Perform, Produce.

M2M: What is on your personal turntable right now?

Honetschlaeger: Well I have a five year-old daughter so nothing is ever on my turntable. I don’t know if you have kids, but it will get destroyed. [laughs] But what was on my turntable was, well like to tinker with DJ’ing. I am sort of good at it, not that I am a scratchy turntable-ist but I know how to put songs that are BPM (beats per minute) related together and that’s hard because you’re tying into the vibe of the song, or to the break of a song, or the bridge of a song. Nowadays with all these DJ’s I have to say it’s pretty easy. I mean everything is BPM or beat tracker. Back in the day all we had was vinyl. Everyone who comes here spins records. I’m talking about real records and that’s really, really hard, especially if you’re not tapping them out or matching BPM’s. But what’s on my turntable? As of right now. Rick James.

Honetschlaeger’s passion for detail and love for music is what makes The Record Parlour an undeniable epicenter. The rustic feel of open space, brick walls and exposed wood beams give the space character that is accentuated by its enthusiastically helpful staff. Whether you want to find that KISS album you had in your teen years, acquire a first pressing of Changes by David Bowie or catch a concert of local The Record Parlour is a must.

The Record Parlour owners hard at work...

THE RECORD PARLOUR is located in Cahuenga Corridor: 6408 Selma Avenue: Hollywood, CA 90028. www.therecordparlour.com

Fraudulent Charges...

"I am not saying it was you, but someone spent $100 on condoms, stool softener and nail polish at Walgreens Mr. Bates." - Bank Customer Service. 

I am a victim of fraudulent charges...for the second time in my life. I am told it happens to the best of us. Whoever said that is a dickhead though. Fraud blows. The last time this happened the bank froze my account and we set up a covert operation. I had to call from a specific number when I was at a local ATM. They could then unfreeze my account for 90 seconds so I could get some money to last me until they sent me a new card. I felt like a secret agent. Like we are about to sneak into a Swiss bank account and take them for everything they got. Then I looked at my bank statement and reality set back in.

I currently have no access to my money and I can't say that my customer service has been that stellar either. When they say they work banker's hours they weren't kidding. I wish I worked Monday through Friday 9-5. Conveniently, my fraud happened on a weekend, but don't worry, they will be working on getting my money back in a few business days...starting Monday. “Do you have any checks that you can use until we get you your new card?” My banks customer service agent asks over the phone. “Are you kidding me? It’s 2015. Who the hell even knows how to write a check? Can we just expedite me a new card and we can be done with this?” I reply. “Yes, Mr. Bates, for an additional $15 we can expedite the card and you should have it sometime early next week.” I am stunned. Yep. That sounds about right. Sure, why not. Let's do that.

Honestly though, after I got over the shock and anger of this situation, it has not been that bad. As I am currently write this I have a $1 bill in my pocket, which Jamie gave me, and have been coming up with inventive ways to pays for things. I say we bring back the bartering days. "I don't know, what do you say? I give you this nice pen in exchange for that bag of chips?" But I don't think that guy at 7-11 was amused by my offer. Apps have really helped. The Starbucks App has been great. I reload my gold card with them using my PayPal account so I have been living off a healthy diet of vanilla coffee and scones. Did you know they have a new Mini Frappuccino? What will they come up with next?

Anyone else ever go through this?

A Chat with At Our Expense...

With their passion and presence on stage, DIY band At Our Expense is a group of guys worth looking out for in the music scene.

“How are you all doing tonight?” Angel, lead singer, asks to a roar from the crowd.  The intro to “Embers,” off their album, “I’m The One Who Changed” begins, and you can feel the build up, the tension on the stage as the music collides, crashes together to form their pop punk, post-hardcore sound. Their stage presence is big, each of the six guys in their own zone, putting their all into this song, the band, and the music. I’m easily impressed with their spirit.  

At Our Expense is a group of musicians out of the San Fernando Valley. Having just released their fourth EP, Awake, they’ve come a long way from the garage they started jamming in, in the spring of ’07.

I got to sit down with three of the guys: Angel Carmona (vocals), Andres Argueta (vocals), and Danny Santamaria (guitar) to discuss everything from their future goals to their dedication to music. The great thing about them is that right off the bat, when asked about their biggest accomplishments, they don’t hesitate in saying that it would have to be sticking together for the last eight years.

JE: What would you say are your biggest accomplishments as a band?

DS: Sticking together for eight years

AC: San Fernando Battle of the Bands. And we’ve been on two tours and two smaller ones. 

JE: Why do you guys make music?

AC: We’re all into music, we’re all music lovers. That’s why we do it. 

AA: And hanging out with your friends at the same time. 

AC: Playing live is the ultimate high. To sum it up we’re just a bunch of dedicated people who – we share the same passion. Music’s our thing, it just happened to be that way. 

AA: I think we’d all like to leave a mark. 

JE: What’s your favorite thing about music – yours or in general?

DS: The feels. When you hear something that you emotionally connect to, or you hear someone sing about a situation that you’re going through or have been through… you just go, yeah that guy knows what’s up. 

AC: For our music, if someone digs our songs it means a lot. We wrote it and people enjoy it. When people actually take the time to remember your lyrics, it’s nice. 

JE: What do you guys like to do outside of music?

AA: We keep up with sports. 

DS: Yeah, we’re really big sports fans. 

AA: Music and sports. Going to other bands shows and listening. 

AC: Video games and… we like food. Music is the coolest thing we’ve got. 

JE: What are your goals for the future of AOE?

AC: Shows, tour, writing. Shows, tour, writing. Building up the fan base. 

DS: Yeah, we’re trying to write a full-length right now, but it really depends on the finances to take on that big recording contract. We’re DIY. 

AA: We’d like to travel to the east coast; write more, travel more. 

DS: Hopefully it becomes full-time, where we can really dedicate ourselves – getting a house, everyone living there and writing a record together.

With their DIY ideal of doing things at their expense and their strong bond, I can tell that they’ll make their goals. They are some of the most dedicated dudes I’ve had the pleasure to meet. 

2015 has been a good year so far for AOE and seems to be only getting better, with a bunch of shows under their belt, they continue to book shows locally.

Check them out soon: FaceBook.com/AtOurExpense

I Got Peed On...

“Oh, man. My bad. At least you know he is hydrated.” - Some Dad 

Returning from a lunch break, I hit the restroom to relieve myself before getting back to work. Standing at the urinal doing my business another group of individuals wander into the bathroom. A dad and I assumed his children from the sounds. Using proper guy-code-restroom-edicate I didn’t turn around to check it all out. You never turn around. Just keep your eyes on your business. My urinal was next to one of the stalls. As I was looking down, I saw little sneakers in my peripheral vision from the stall next to me. I assumed routine dad bathroom business as he needed to help his son. Except this time I didn't see a pair adult size sneakers slide into my peripheral. "No big deal." I thought. 

A second later, I thought I was bleeding. I felt a hot streak across ankle and foot. I looked down to make sure I was okay. At this point, I am still going. As Lloydd Christmas said "I can't stop once I've started. It stings!" After further inspection of my foot, it seems there was a clear liquid on it. And then another hot streak...and another. I guess this kid was just pretending he was a front yard sprinkler swaying and pissing wherever he wanted. I froze. I didn't know what to do. I have never been peed on before. I got out a subtle "Uh? Stop! Please. Don't pee on me!" trying to zip up, back up and see where the hell this kids dad was.

It turns out the dad was in the other stall, helping his other son and trusted his 2-year-old to aim on his own. He came out of the stall as I looked at him. Not knowing what else to do I pointed at my pee-covered foot. "Oh, man. You peed on yourself?" was the dad's first response. I thought to myself, "If I had peed on myself why the hell would I tell you?" This is a weird day. I told him it was not my pee and he responded with an inquisitive "You sure?" I just stared at him in disbelief trying to hold back my confusion and displeasure of having someone I don't knows pee on me, I pointed to the bathroom floor where it looked like someone spilled a glass of water. "Oh, man." He said...again. This guys temperate was that of a high 16-year-old drop out. "Well, at least you know he is hydrated!" And gave a little chuckle. 

He offered to clean my foot and this is when I chose to leave the bathroom. I don't know if I could have handled the weirdness of a kid I don't know peeing on me and a guy I don't know washing my foot in a public bathroom. Does this kind of stuff ever happened to you?

Moving forward I will probably just wait to use the handicap accessible stalls from now on.

-YourFriendMatt

The Gitas Album Review...

The latest album release, Garland, from Orange County natives, The Gitas, is a perfect blend of old-school rock with new-school hipster appeal. Introductory track “Brand New Life” opens with a heartbeat as the soothing vocals of singer/guitarist Sasha Chemerov leads us to a catchy chorus and we get an ‘easy feeling everything is great.’ The impressive trio blends a fuzzy sound of rock with an elegant splash of Seattle grunge. The big production is impressive considering the band consists of three members. Drummer Brittany Maccarello holds her own providing a steady backbone while offering listeners tastefully executed and seemingly effortless drum fills. Bass player Sal Ramazzini locks in and holds down the booming low-end sprinkled with precise runs that fill your headphones. The Gitas offer the perfect amount of dirty alt-rock and SXSW charm every KROQ artist has missed the mark on. They set themselves apart from the over polished cookie-cutter rock tunes spinning on national radio stations.

Garland flows from the intro track to a slow but steadily paced “Black Crows.” This is your new whiskey drinking jam at the end of the working week. The hypnotizing lyrics make you want to break from the stress of the week and soar with happiness. An eerie bridge leads us right back into the chorus and we can’t help shouting along. The single from Garland “Mood for Love” displays Sasha’s more raspy vocal talent in the vein of Kurt Cobain but the smooth accented falsetto sets the song apart. This is noticeably the most upbeat track on the album and displays the bands more Pop-oriented side. “Precious Day” is a heavy rock track that does not quit. From beginning to end the energy takes hold of you and the vocals erupt. Huge hard-hitting drums and gain turned up to 11—the band sounds like they will jump through your speakers to get their message across. Sasha’s vocal cords nearly rip apart by the time we get out of the heavy half-timed riff-laden bridge to the song’s end. Do yourself a favor and check out their new album Garland today.

Keep up to date with The Gitas here: www.thegitas.com

It's not my birthday...

“This is probably the biggest moment of my life and you are brewing beer.” 

I work retail. I always have. I tried to get out once but for whatever reason I ended up relapsing. A retail schedule enables me to forget what a weekend is and get excited for a Monday or Thursday like they are a Saturday night. It's not out of the ordinary that I find myself day-drinking on a Monday after working 8 days straight and calling a friend to see if they want to hang out. “I would but it's noon. On a Monday. I am obviously at work.” Is their normal response to my invitation. Over the years I have learned how to have fun on my own and have taken up many hobbies. I started a candle company once. Then started a repurposed furniture website with my girlfriend. I took up golf. I even took up brewing my own beer. 

This bring us here. One day, on my lonesome, I got the required ingredients to make a porter and set out to spend the afternoon brewing. I cranked the jams danced around like a moron to Hall and Oates enjoying the day when I turned around to see my brother standing in the doorway. Staring at me dancing he raised an eyebrow; as if it was me interrupting him at his house. Startled, I switched off the music and asked him what he was doing. Shouldn't he be at work? He doesn't work retail?

"Grab me a beer and sit down. I want to talk to you." He states taking a seat at the dinning room table placing a bagged present between us. He seem to have something on his mind. "Who is the present for?" I ask and start digging around. He promptly slapped my hand like you would with a child about to touch a hot stove. "Hey, wait a minute. It's for you but hold on." We both cracked open some Busch tall boys, dad's favorite, and tried to make small talk. We both really suck at it and finally gave up. "Okay, fuck it. Open up the damn present." He stated and grabbed his phone to take pictures of me. I kept thinking how weird it was that he wasn't telling me anything about this and it wasn't my birthday. I slowly opened the present as he snapped photos eager with anticipation. Two cigars fell out wrapped in pink and blue ribbons. My brain froze and then time stopped. There was a shift in the universe. Are we adults now? In a matter of milliseconds billions of questions raced through my head. I snapped back and felt like I was in a washing machine, my vision blurred and the room turned upside down, colors blending together. My body couldn't keep up with my thought process as I blurted out the only thing I could think of...a faint but prominent "Huh?"

To my knowledge he had been seeing someone on and off. Nothing serious, right? I had been with Jamie for a few years now and for some reason my first question was "Jamie's pregnant and this is how she wanted to tell me?" He stared as you would to a complete imbecile. I don't think I have seen a face of more disgust or disbelief. He had to be thinking to himself "No. There's no way he is this stupid." He final spoke "No you fucking idiot! Your going to be an uncle!" 

Hey! I'm an uncle!

Pete - I will never forget that day and love you man. Declan rules.

The Start of SoFar Sounds...

Driving up Mulholland Drive to a beautiful home perched up in the hills between Sherman Oaks and Bel Air we could sense we were in for an interesting night. After all, we were about to attend to a secret show in the Hollywood hills. How hip is that? My sister and I climbed up a steep driveway and walked into the living room, set up with a grand piano in front of floor-to-ceiling windows leading to a breathtaking view of the city below. We enjoyed stripped-down, close-up performances by Robbie Boyd (http://www.robbie-boyd.com/), Only You (http://www.myonlyyou.com/), and The Dead Ships (http://www.thedeadships.com/). It was an amazing evening with an amazing session - Sofar definitely holds themselves to a higher standard. 

Photography: Zane Roessell @ zrofoto.com

So how did this amazing global secret show circuit come to be? We caught up with Monina Castillo, who manages L.A. PR for the organization. She gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the history behind Sofar (which stands for “Songs from a room”) and how the all volunteer staff make the magic happen. 

Sofar Sounds was born in London in 2009 by Rafe Offer, David J. Alexander and Rocky Start. These gents were tired of talented artists being underappreciated in the typical loud, rowdy, drunken bar scene. “They wanted to create an alternative option - an atmosphere where people would truly listen and give respect to the music that was being played,” Monina told us. “What resulted was a unique experience and an intimate connection for both music lovers and artists alike.” Six years later, Sofar Sounds is in over 80+ cities across the world, and they’re still growing. 

The Sofar Sounds crew sources their artists by keeping in tune with their local music scene, taking submissions from artists interested in playing, and getting referrals from other Sofar cities. If bands submit themselves, Sofar’s team of global reviewers takes a listen, and if the whole team loves them, they’re invited to perform at a Sofar show. How’s that for quality control?

This all-volunteer community relies on the generosity of hosts around the world to open their homes and businesses to Sofar Sound’s bands and guests. Each location is different for every session but typically, per the Sofar Sounds M.O., they are in living rooms to keep an intimate vibe. Though sometimes the sessions can take place in other unique settings; Sofar Sounds LA have also had their shows in a Pilates studio, furniture store, art gallery and work/space lofts.

Sofar Sounds is a collaborative community and happy to just share this amazing music with viewers like you, but they could always use some help! Head over to their site to volunteer your time and talent to their events worldwide, offer to host a show in your space, or ask them to check out your music for an opportunity to play one of their shows. If you’d rather just sit back and enjoy the tunes, please consider leaving a donation of good-ole-cash money. 

Record Store Day 2015...

The last man in line...Happy Record Store Day!

"Holy crap. This sucks." I am the last man in line at Amoeba Records in Hollywood. What the hell was I thinking?" I went through this last year and it took me four hours to get through the line. I didn't get half the records I wanted. "This year will be different." I told myself. "I will get up early or sleep out the night before!" Over and over again. 

Waking up at 9:00am on Record Store Day I figured I'd be screwed. And I was. I rounded the corner after parking about a mile away and then I saw it. The mother of all lines filled with vinyl junkies waiting to get their fix. The one good thing that Amoeba does on Record Store Day is keep a list of all the releases on a white board out front of the shop. This allows them to cross things off as they sell out of them...and when Brand New releases a vinyl press of their "break out" album and it’s limited to 1,500 world wide...chances are I'm not getting it when I'm standing in line 3 miles away. 

I stood around for a few minutes chatting with a few of my fellow slackers who slept in before I decided to wander up to the front of the store to see what was already sold out. What do I care if I lose my spot in line. As I expected...every release I wanted was sold out. I heard people in the front of the line saying they had been camped out since 7pm...the day earlier. Watching happy folks walk away from Amoeba toting their prize record purchases just adds insult to injury. These people were the smart ones…or crazy ones…who slept out all night. Bastards.

So. I left. Broken. Beaten. And bummed. 

I gave it one last-ditch effort and decided to hit one more record store before I went home with my tail between my legs. Record Surplus on Santa Monica, less than 2 miles from my house, had ALL the releases I wanted and NO LINE. The record gods shined down on me after all. This place is an oasis. I couldn't believe it. This is truly a neighborhood record shop and I will be shopping there before I cross the 10 any day. It just goes to show…if you sleep in…you win.

Secret Shows at SoFar...

Are you sick of spending a ton of money to go to an over-crowded music venue with a terrible view? Are you ashamed of your “old-man” earplugs because now you’re an adult and you’ve realized that your addiction to loud music is slowly destroying your hearing? Well if you said yes, we have discovered an underground secret show circuit that offers that intimate setting to appreciate live music, a good view, and enjoyable volume level. The best part is that it doesn’t require any cash – only your respectful attention. Sofar Sounds, the answer to your musical prayers!

These events showcase emerging talents in the indie-music scene, as well as well-established artists. The performers are kept a secret until guests arrive at the venue and see discreet posters taped to the walls listing the menu of talent for the evening. So, why all the secrecy? “Keeping SofarSounds as  ‘secret shows’ creates a sense of curiosity, which keeps drawing people back for more. Many like the fun, spontaneous element of surprise, ” shared Monina Castillo, Sofar’s L.A. PR rep. “People also feel special being part of an “in-the-know” music discovery movement and community that offers a different experience than the typical music venue or club.”

The shows are free and you can BYOB so you’re not spending $10 on a can of PBR. However, Sofar welcomes donations to help pay their videographers and editors, who put together the performance videos of each band on Sofar’s YouTube channel, where you can keep enjoying them over and over.

You may ask yourself: “How do I get into one of these super awesome secret shows?” All it takes is the Internet and a little patience - no need for a famous uncle, a small fortune, or forged backstage passes. Head over to http://www.sofarsounds.com/, sign up, and RSVP for the shows you’d like to attend in the city of your choice. You’ll get an email confirmation a couple of days before the show letting you know if you’re invited. Heads up though, since the shows are in small intimate spaces, they can’t accommodate large numbers at a time, so sometimes it can take a few tries before getting invited. But don’t be disappointed and RSVP as many times as you want because the organization works hard to make sure everyone gets a chance to see a session eventually.

Photo: Zane Roesell @ zrofoto.com

In keeping with the spirit of Sofar Sounds, the first show I went to was a totally last-minute adventure. A friend of mine had finally received an invitation after months of waiting. Luckily for me, her original +1 fell through. We arrived at an amazing three-story loft in Atwater Village, early enough to witness the videographers setting up shop in the kitchen across from a menagerie of instruments set up in the living room. That night we indulged in the musical stylings of The Parlour Suite (http://www.theparloursuite.com/), Sales (http://wearenotsales.com/), and My Double My Brother (http://mydoublemybrother.com/). I had never heard of these bands before and I had awesomeness-induced goosebumps the entire time. I was hooked. 

Whether you’re interested in discovering new artists or praying to the music gods for an intimate show with one of your long-time faves, these shows are an amazing experience you’ll never forget. I promise the awesomeness will give you goose bumps, unless you’re a soulless robot. In that case please skip the show and save that spot for a real live music lover.

California Screamin'

"Man, that noise did not sound good." I thought to myself right before my coaster came to a screeching halt.

Yesterday Jamie and I went to Disneyland. If you follow my Instagram (@MattBates) this probably comes as no surprise. We are first time annual pass-holders and since we purchased the passes we have already be to Disneyland 12 times...in 10 weeks. That's roughly about $2,000 if we would have purchased regular tickets every time instead of getting annual passes...I think we're getting our money's worth.

We grabbed a beer as we walked through the park after eating a quick burrito dinner. I am getting good at reading the crowds of zombie-like, fatigued out-of-state vacationers trying to cram in as much as the park can offer on their yearly vacation. We strolled passed California Screamin'. Although it looked packed and would take an hour to get on the ride; it was just the crowd traffic around the area. The real wait time to get on the ride was only 10 minutes. This is very unusual for a Saturday where ride lines can take up to an hour and a half. I turned to Jamie excitedly, "We have to get on! You almost done your beer!" As it turned out she didn't want to get on a roller coaster 15 minutes after eating a burrito...followed up by a beer. I could see her point, but I have an iron stomach. She encouraged me to go my as a solo rider and we would meet up after. Taking advantage of the opportunity I kissed her forehead, downed my beer and ran off like a 5-year-old flailing my limbs around jumping for joy.

I quickly got through the line and when the cast member asked me how many were in my party so he could get me on the ride I told him I was a single rider. I also told him I would be willing to wait until the next ride went if I could sit in the front which he didn't mind. The ride I was suppose to be on shot off and I was next to sit front seat for this roller coaster. The coaster pulled in and the riders filed off. I shot Jamie a quick text before stepping on the ride to let her know I was about to go if she wanted to see me off. My phone back in my pocket I stepped on the ride, pulled down the safety bar and waited to be launched.

The ride released and we moved forward. California Screamin' stops right around the first corner so you can see the first incline you'll be flung over. This also gives you family members a good photo opportunity. Jamie stood looking over as I waved or gave her a thumbs up for the front row. The countdown started and I heard an awful metal screeching sound followed by a booming thud. Not normal. And not what you want to hear right before your roller coaster takes off. "Okay Screamers! Ready in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go!" Echoed over the sound system as our coaster stayed stationary. I looked over to Jamie and shrugged. "Okay Screamers! Ready in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go!" Again over the sound system and nothing. I started to look around as if I was being punked. "Okay Screamers! Ready in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, go!" Nothing again but more horrible metal grinding sounds. On-lookers stared at us on the ride as we all tried to play it off like we weren't kind of scared in a Final Destination kind of way. This was starting to worry me but we all remained in good spirits. The suspense was started in the build. In my head I started to think what if this thing really is broke? How the hell are we going to get out of here? I mean, I am sure we will be fine right? This is Disney. They know what they are doing? Right? Besides, I am kind of like Macgyver, I can fix this. 

Although it was probably a routine maintenance problem for Disneyland it scared the crap out of me. We probably only sat for a few moments before the ride finally released but it felt like an eternity. I did enjoy the ride when it took off and will continue to go on it...repeatedly. But if I am being honest, I held on for dear life this time around. Even still, through a brief moment of uncertainty...you can't pass up giving the camera on the coaster a goofy face if you know where it is.

Kid behind me was not as pumped as I was...

Ever get stuck on a ride at an amusement park?

-YourFriendMatt

The Whiskey a Go Go...

This was never a phase. Never just a time-period in my life. This was never something taken for granted. For as long as I can remember I wanted to be in a rock band. I wanted to share the love for what we created with anyone. I spent most of my life giving everything I could to play music in front of people. This is a passion. Recently, I was offered the opportunity to sit where The Doors became The Doors. I was offered a chance to hit drums where Tommy Lee sat. I can check it off my bucket list. I thrilled (and honored) to say I played The Whiskey a Go Go on the Sunset Strip in California.

A few nights ago, on a school night, a singer-songwriter who had moved to the LA area no more than 48 hours earlier saw some drum covers on YourFriendMatt.com. He emailed me about filling in for him on an upcoming show. I asked to check out the music and when the show was. As it turns out the he was on American Idol and the show was the next night. Intrigued, I asked where the show was and when the response was The Whiskey I packed the car with my gear and headed to learn their set of original songs until midnight…and was back at work at 7:00 the next morning. If that's not rock-n-roll…I don’t know what is. Getting out of work Jamie and I raced (crawled on the 10 and 405...at rush hour) to get to the show.

Stepping onto a stage that has impacted and helped launch so many careers is indescribable. I was half tempted to bow down to pay homage praying I was worthy enough to be here. I have preformed and traveled all over the US managing or playing in bands, but this experience will be one that I talk about for the rest of my days. I mean Frank Zappa, The Byrds, Led Zeppelin, Neil Diamond, Motely Crue, Jimi Hendrix and, again, The Doors have all been here. The show went off without a hitch and we played well for only knowing each other for 5 hours. The rock gods must have looked down on us.

Jamie and I moved to LA for adventure, change of pace, to gain life experience and learn about each other…and ourselves. But hey, if an opportunity opened up to be creative and play some shows with some great people that’s awesome too. 

-YourFriendMatt

Happy Easter…I will hit you with a bat…

“Under California State Law we actually can’t kill them if they enter our house! This is bullshit! The original 13 colonies would never let this happen! Even Jersey! What kind of hippie, avocado eating, vegan-diet, responsibly raised state is this!”

A few days ago someone, probably a piece of shit, broke into our landlords house stealing all of their credit cards, iPads, money and licenses. This is particularly scary because if you know where our landlords live, you know where we live...directly behind them.

I was getting out of work earlier this week checked my phone to see if I had any missed calls. I expected to see the usual 2-3 iMessages or social media updates I would have missed. Turning on my phone I had 32 missed calls and 47 texts from Jamie as a sudden sweat of fear came over me. This is not okay. Nobody wants to get out of work to notice that the people they love might be in trouble. I jumped on my bike and pedaled my ass off to get home as fast as I could. Jamie was safe and immediately filled me in on what was going on. Our landlords, who we consider good friends, had packed up their car for a long weekend away and were about to hit the road. Their son had a soccer game and they were going to leave directly from that. When they got back to their car from when the game ended all their luggage was gone. Stolen. This was no more than ten minutes from our house, in broad daylight. Freaking out that they had their licenses and knew they were about leave for a trip we feared the thieves would come to the house to steal even more. Our place is located right behind their house. Would they try to get us? We frantically grabbed any blunt object and started to barricade the doors.

After rationalizing and coming up with a plan we calmed down and started to take precautions. We replaced all the locks and got a MasterLock for our gated yard. We made sure all the neighbors knew what happened and they filed a police report. On a side note, what kind of dickhead steals skateboards from little kids? Seeing how heartbroken and teary-eyed our neighbors kids were because someone stole their skateboards is heartbreaking. After everything died down, locks were changed, police reports completed and calls to creditors to cancel cards they got on their way.

Now we are alone. I know only the worlds dumbest criminal would try to rob the same person twice but you never know. For the rest is of the night I walked around like a prison guard and shaking a baseball bat at any noise in our yard. We made up a contingency plan just in case and hid weapons around our place. The only thing left for us to do was make up a Home Alone booby-trap floor map. I really wish the Stickie Bandits would try to break in.

Nothing happened and things have calmed down. Seriously though, if you break into our house I will do my best to hit you with a bat.

Ever go through a break in?

Does anyone actually know the laws around if someone breaks in and what you can do about it?

-YourFriendMatt

Gone Green...

California takes recycling seriously. This was a huge culture shock when we moved. It is a good thing that the culture here takes recycling so serious, but took some getting use too. Heaven forbid you put a napkin in the wrong trash bin around here. "Don't you realize what you have done! That napkin takes 6 weeks to decompose! If we recycle it we can have it back by the end of the week!" This is a typical response from some blonde haired, flip flop wearing, sunglass sporting hippie. It's amazing how they seem to pop out of nowhere to discuss going green like they are a Trash Fairy-God-Mother. I usually back away slowly, apologize and think to myself "Shouldn't he be at work? How can they just guard the trash can all day?"

Deciding to embrace the recycling mentality we started sorting our paper products and I decided to keep all our aluminum and glass. There is a recycling center next to our local supermarket that will pay you to bring your recyclables. Boom. Make money? Enjoy adult beverages? Go green? This is probably the best thing I could do for the environment. Mother nature would be proud.

"You say alcoholism. I say go green." - A Wise Man.

It takes us about 5-6 months to get a decent amount of aluminum and glass worth taking down to the recycle center. The only thing is a majority of our recyclables are beer and wine containers. This makes me look like a raging alcoholic every time I go. When the local transients who spend their time dumpster diving and yelling at beach seagulls start shooting me looks I know I have done a good job. "Son, do you need help." one of them asked me once with genuine concern and I responded with "Gee, I don't know." Adding a long pause for effect "Yeah, I guess I could." Another Pause, "Grab an end! This stuff is heavy!"

Always remember recycling is good. And recycling, drinking and getting paid is even better. 

Did you know it takes a year for a wool sock to decompose? What does that even mean? Who's throwing out a wool sock?

Cat Cork EP Review...

With a fluid sound and effortless lyrics, the new self-titled EP release from Australian musician Cat Cork starts with a simplistically relatable bang. Tranquilizing vocals on the introductory track, “Dreaming My Life Away,” whisper effortless lyrics that all listeners can connect with. Reminiscent of the stripped down album, Nebraska by Springsteen, a simple bell keeps the tempo as the rustic guitar plays along with the melodic chorus. As the last refrain hits, the straightforward instruments take over and the epilogue plays on.

“Let It All Go!” takes over from here with its straightforward message. Cat Cork pulls all the stops, letting the listener dive in and be submerged in sea of familiarity. Feelings expressed and honest words bridge gaps missing in most of the cookie-cutter folk being shoveled through your radio speakers—Cork’s music is, well…it’s a breath of fresh air. Engaging questions layered in the verses are answered in the song’s chorus. A tasteful piano presence leads to a surprising element of complexity as the EP bleeds into “Wandering Rocks.” A mix of mandolin and acoustic guitar complement each other as stoic dual vocals collide.

“Hold On” warms up when arpeggiati notes unite with a chugging chord chorus. All instruments build towards a multi-vocal layer, filling headphones with a full and beautiful choir. A fade leads to the stories eerie ending of piano, percussive, instrumental bliss. A quick listen or a repeat play of this EP does not disappoint. It is not a far stretch from earlier work of Cork but leaves fans satisfied and craving more.

Editor’s Note: Worth a listen: “Never Want to Wake Up”

Office Hours...

"What in the world could you be doing in there for that long!" She said for the umpteenth time nearly kicking down the door. "I gotta pee so bad I'm going to explode!" I respond with a calm and simple "I do some of my best thinking in here.”

It has become my favorite room in the house. A spot where I can go to be alone with my thoughts. Enjoy a cup of coffee. Depending on the time of day I may even finish a beer. This is a place where I can skim through various social media outlets, catch up on my library book or even come up with the idea to write this very post -- I may have even written half of it while in here.

The bathroom is my office. And during Office Hours I get some of my best work done. Getting zen in the bathroom is a part of my routine and I look forward to it. Every morning I budget time before my hectic commute — a bike ride lining beach — to take care of business (if you know what I mean) but to also reply to emails, send birthday wishes, play Words with Friends against my uncles, pay bills wirelessly and plot my day.

Since we have opposite schedules my Office Hours usually are not an issue for us. Jamie doesn't have to get up for another hour after I have already left for work. On a rare weekend we are both off is usually when it creates a disturbance. Moving forward with our life together we will eventually have to have at least 2 offices. I do respect that she has to go in there, but I do give fair warning before I enter.  “You may not see me for a while.” I pause like a sergeant going into battle. I look up to the sky for dramatic effect as I secure my iPad under my arm. Sleep dust crusted in the corner of my eyes and my hair sticking up in every direction from my glorious slumber, “This one might be hell. Burritos last night. A black coffee and Raisen Bran. What was I thinking?" Pausing to bite my lower lip pretending I'm about to cry for more dramatic effect. "And I have to come up with a 80 point word against Uncle Phil. I love you. Wish me luck.” I kiss her head as she scoffs in disgust. “You are so gross.” Waving me off, “I love you too.” As the door closes and I am at peace.

List of (some) Accomplishments during Office Hours:

• YourFriendMatt.com was created here.
• Making countless and accurate grocery lists.
• Applying to college.
• Canceling cable.
• Viewing and Completing Season 3 of Breaking Bad.
• Paying bills, trading stocks and chats with my financial advisor.
• Planning birthdays and family functions.
• Nearly every call I have had with any customer service agent...ever. 
• Obligatory crossword puzzles.

Need I say more? Don't act like you aren't viewing this from a Facebook post on your toilet right now.

-YourFriendMatt

Dear Boy Review...

With an infectious on-stage presence, Dear Boy is making some serious moves in the California alt-rock scene.

The project that would eventually become Dear Boy came about in London when Scarlet Grey members Ben Grey and Keith Cooper started a new writing venture. It was intended to be the next step in Scarlet Grey’s musical progression, but engendered something completely different. Knowing that this new batch of songs couldn’t go on with the same band, Ben and Keith brought on Austin Hayman and Nils Bue, and Dear Boy was born. They released the five songs from London on their debut EP and the rest is history in the making. While their latest songs are a collaborative product from all four members, it still follows the path that Keith and Ben had started in London.

To be honest, when I first heard the name “Dear Boy”, I pictured a crop of cute indie chicks smoothly serenading their ex-lovers – what I discovered instead was a paradoxical stream of melodic yet energetic beats with hints of pop-punk and indie rock with some new flavor sprinkled on top. So where did the name come from? The names credit actually goes to a British gal who waited on a homesick half-band in creative limbo. During their London trip, Keith and Ben were out to eat on Thanksgiving. As you (hopefully) know, Thanksgiving isn’t really a “thing” in London, unless you come across some Yankee ex-pats. The waitress referred to them as “dear boys” and something about the name got into their blood and it was clear that this was the name for their next chapter.

2015 is shaping up to be a great year for these dear boys. They have already played a slew of shows, having kicked off March with a few dates in Orange County. Mid-March will see them venturing to the first of what is sure to be a spree of festivals for them this year with SXSW in Austin. This will be their second year playing the SX circuit, but with a few more gigs on their schedule. I caught up with Austin Hayman at Dear Boy’s Bardot gig a few weeks back. “We have a really crazy week at SX - we’re playing a whole bunch of shows, that’s going to be really fun!”

When asked if a record deal is on the horizon for 2015, Austin let me know that while they’ve had some good talks, they haven’t made a decision yet. “You have to be really selective about who you want to work with, especially with your first album because it can really make or break you.”

One of Dear Boy’s undeniable strengths is their ability to connect with their fans – both on stage and off. Sure, Ben Grey has mastered control of his brooding musician hair flip, to a point where it seems almost choreographed with the rest of the show. But they also definitely engage the audience in the show while on stage, making sure to wave at those fans that are in the crowd night after night. After the show it’s hard to pin any of them down, not because they’re busy with the after party or rushing to sneak out the back, but because they actually stop and talk to their fans. “One of the things we’re the most proud of is the community we’ve helped create amidst the congestion of LA,” shared Ben. “We’re all in this together and it’d be impossible to forget the people who have helped take us this far. We've been incredibly lucky.”

Find the latest updates on Dear Boy at http://www.dearboyofficial.com/

Damn you, Hootie...

 "Holy Crap! This song is awful." I state but no matter of the volume she doesn't hear me. My girlfriend loves country music.

I am forever doomed to listen to twanging guitars and lyrics about red dirt roads. I guess it's not all bad. The older stuff seems to hit a lot harder than the crap Nashville is cranking out now. A lyric from a song I heard the other day went something along the lines of "Chew tobacco, chew tobacco, chew tobacco, spit." Now, I am not a song writing master but holy hell that was the best that song-writing team could do? They have to have what, a billion dollars? The worst part is no matter how much I hate the song it always gets stuck in my head, or hers, all night. And we always only know one line from the song so we repeat it over and over again! I guess that team did do it right, bastards. Even Hootie - of The Blowfish fame - is getting in on the action. That's right. Hootie is a country singer. Yes, I know his name is Darius. But I feel I'm not alone when I say he will be Hootie to everyone until the end of time.

Regardless, there is just something about this woman. I love her. So, she can listen to the country station and dance with the frozen peas and roasted chicken we just bought for dinner. I am sure she puts up with enough of my crap daily. I thought the video attached was too good not to share. This is one of her new favorite jams and when we hear it this is her reaction. There will never be a shortage of new country songs on the radio. She will continue to fall in love with them but every time she does something like this I fall more in love with her. Even if the song is crap.

Damn you, Hootie!

-YourFriendMatt

The American Public...Part 2...Mr. Prick

"Uh! I don't know how that got there!" He said frantically as he tried to hit any button that would close the x-rated open web-browser that read "Grandpa's Christmas Cookie.”

Author Side-note: Ew. 

I use to do freelance tech support for a small law firm. It was the best job ever, but I was working through school so anything with a paycheck seemed good enough for me. One day while making the rounds at the office one of the partners flagged me down. He was a real prick. Never said hello to me, always cut me off, especially when I was explaining things to him. He even asked me to leave the room while I was fixing his computer because “The Big Boys were talking.” He then laughed at me as I left the room with his colleagues. Once again, I can't say this enough, this guy is a prick.

"What the hell is a cloud anyway!" As his boney pointer finger digs into my chest. I ask him how I can help him and he proceeds to tell me how nobody can fix his problems. "No shit." I thought to myself. “All I need is for this-to-talk-to-this and then you can leave.” As he slams his tablet next to his desktop computer. “You got that? Are you paying attention?” Almost cutting himself off, then scoffs. I start looking through his preferences, settings, etc asking standard questions “Sir, do you know your password?” Turning to look at him. He shoots me a look like I have just murdered his family. “How? How the fuck am I suppose to remember a password, you dumb shit?” Oh, I forgot. I am a complete dickhead. It's my fault you can't remember the same password you use everyday to get into your email. My bad. This is when I notice the porn open...but hidden behind another application. And, not just any porn. The title of this erotically graphic adult adventure is 'Grandpa's Christmas Cookie.'

This prick goes on to tell me my millennial generation is a bunch of "dumb-asses" and have no respect. He then tells me I need to "get my shit together" and stop "dicking around" when he has so much work to do. Clearly, I am not the one dicking around here and I know how to push this porn, Grandpa's Christmas Cookie, to the front lobby TV. I double-click while he continues yelling at me and before you know it two tan, barely-legal spread legs topped with a Santa hat are being broadcast to the entire office. Nothing is more priceless than watching someone, especially such a fucking prick, scramble to make their dirty porn go away. He pokes the monitor - which is NOT a touch screen - presses delete and finally just shakes the monitor to make it stop. The entire office was blasted with sex as he works any combination of keys to make it all go away. I love when people forget that their desktop computer monitor isn't a touch screen.

Needless to say I didn't last long there and Mr. Prick never talked to me again. It is my hope that he learned his lesson...but probably not. People like him never do. Regardless, I think we can all agree on two things. Porn is great when you don't get caught watching it...and that guy is a prick.

-YourFriendMatt

Enjoy this post? Check out The American Public Part One here!

Shaving...

Ahhhh, shaving. A time when a man can feel as masculine as he the Brawny paper towel guy. We all looked up to our dads, or father figures, with envy and dreamed of one day shaving in the bathroom mirror like them...and stopping cuts with little pieces of toilet paper. It took me 28 years but I can finally shave my beard. And, you know what? It’s pretty awesome. I have heard people complain about how itchy it is or about how annoying it can get or about how time consuming shaving can be.

Recently I decided to have some fun with my facial hair (please see the picture above). I let my beard grow for 30 disgustingly-awesome days and then decided to shave all kinds of different styles on my face. I was able to get a biker-stach (or porn stash), a gnarly goatee and even a Luke Perry soul patch.

Do you have any cool shaving pictures? Share them!

-YourFriendMatt