Sunday, November 29, 2009

Jehosaphat Blow: as unlike Coldplay as possible


Jehosaphat Blow (Donkeysack Records) is...Oh, who am I kidding? Like I could possibly do a better job describing this musical genius than he has of describing himself.

Complete the sentence. Jehosaphat Blow is...

abusing himself as you read this, (Thanks Fox Tracks models!) and the coolest garagey-punkish rocker in China at the moment. But, you know, that's like saying I'm the __________ (adjective) __________ (noun) in ____________ (famous place or sanitation equipment). Insert your own ad-lib interview joke there.

What is essential to every Jehosaphat Blow song?

I usually mention shaking something, i.e., hips, bacon etc., getting drunk, some euphemism for fucking, but I'd say what is really essential is being as unlike Coldplay as is humanly possible. Which isn't hard if you are human.

Why should I have your music in my collection?

Multiple choice:
a) It smells nice.
b) You have no bands starting with J on your i-pod. (Jethro Tull doesn't count. They are Muppets.)
c) You never want to have sex with a person ever again.
d) I am the coolest garage-punk-like rocker in China.

If there is such a thing as an afterlife and you get to be in the house band, who do you recruit to fill out the band?

Animal from the Muppets on drums. Is Meat Loaf dead yet? He could be the drums. How about Chico Marx on piano? And bass, either Charles Mingus or the bass player for Kajagoogoo.

If you could write and perform a song with one artist, who would you choose? Why?

I think Prince would be a good choice because he seems very obsessive-compulsive. He would do everything. You know, composed, produced, performed and arranged by Prince and all that jerking off of the ego thing. So, I could just sit there and drink beer while he masturbated musically all over the place and got everything perfect while wearing Cuban heels and ruffles. Then, you know, I stand up, strum a chord, and fart. He turns it into a funk opera.
Also, I could wear all purple for once and no one would laugh at me, and since he is kind of a wee lad (that's short in Irish) he would make my music seem taller.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

I'd probably cure cancer or be in porn. It's a toss-up.


Find more music like this on The GaragePunk Hideout

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Fox of the Week [11/26] Allie Fennell



Allie Fennell is a model from Atlanta (clearly a hotbed for models in general and Fox Tracks models specifically). She is currently studying medicine and dreams of becoming a plastic surgeon. She discusses her start in modeling, her dream location, and what she hopes to accomplish.

How did you get started in modeling?

I started modeling in 2008 when I worked at Hooters of America. I started with Hooters swimsuit competitions and Hooters Calendar shoots. Shortly after I started urban modeling and promotional modeling. I have done promotional work for companies like Heineken and Coke Zero. I have also done a couple of movies.

What do you think is your best feature?

My best feature are my eyes and my lips. My body is perfect and my face just seals the deal. My lips and eyes are very unique. I look young and innocent but I can be sexy at the same time.

How do you think people underestimate or misjudge you?

I honestly feel like models today are underestimated period! I think people only see models as the "video chick" and they don't think we can broaden our horizons. Personally it all depends on the model and what she is trying to do with her career. I am willing to do commercial modeling and videos,but some models only want to excel in one area. I wanna be best all around!

If you could do a photoshoot in any location, where would you choose? Why?

I would do a photoshoot in Puerto Rico. I think that the scenery of the island is wonderful. The beaches, rain forest, and villages are gorgeous and I would kill it.

Who are some models you admire?

Rosa Ascota and Erica Mena, I admire these two ladies because they are of Latin decent and I am too. They are very beautiful women and I am proud that they represent top latin models in the industry.

What is one goal you feel you must accomplish?

The biggest goal that I must accomplish in the modeling industry is to become a household name. I'm talking movies, music videos, magazine cover,and calendars. I want the works! I want to be everywhere lol. That is my ultimate goal.

Follow Allie on Twitter.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Singer-songwriter Cocoa Sarai: my dream is to sell out MSG


Cocoa Sarai is a singer-songwriter from Brooklyn. She discusses her songwriting, winning the Hot 97 Blaze the Stage contest, and artists she would like to write with. Cocoa appears courtesy of Tawag Promotions.

When did you write your first song? What was it, and do you still perform it?

(Cocoa Sarai) I started writing poetry at the age 11, which is something that I still do well. I wrote my first song at the age of 13. The song was titled "Goodbye". It was actually a great song at the time. Currently I don’t perform it now that I think of it; maybe I should bring it back into my set list.

Describe your experience participating in Hot 97 BET Blaze the Stage and describe your reaction when you won.

(CS) It was a lot of fun! All of the Artists performing were very supportive and had beautiful energy backstage. The start of my day to the finish was extremely busy. [laughs] This was actually my second time performing at Blaze the Stage; whereas, I performed previously in December of 2007. This time I had a great team backstage with me. When it was time for my performance I just went out there and did my thing on the stage. I didn’t think about anything else except putting on a good show and remembering the dance moves. [laughs] When they called my name for 1st Place I was standing in the back of the crowd. The experience was amazing!


If you could sit down and have a conversation about music with anyone, who would it be?

(CS) It would definitely be Prince. I think he’s GREAT! He plays a various kinds of instruments and he had so much feeling in his music. Music is about tackling the emotions, that’s the only way people can relate to it. It’s about what feels good. I’m a firm believer in that. It’s something about the way he dug deep, especially his live performances. I would like to ask him questions about his creative process.

With whom would you like to write and perform a song?

(CS) That's a hard one, well I love Neyo's writing. Of course! He’s absolutely amazing and a definite inspiration. Performance...hmmm...that would be a toss up between Prince and Kanye West. They are both amazing performers.

What is the one thing you want to accomplish in your career?

(CS) My life long dream has been to sell out Madison Square Garden. From the age of 9, I wanted to perform there. I will be extremely happy WHEN that happens... Yes I said WHEN [laughs]. Got to have faith.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

(CS) Well I’m a teaching Artist already, So I would definitely be a teacher. It’s an amazing feeling. There are people that came into my life that I will never forget, and it feels good to be able to do the same thing for someone else. Being a part of the Hip Hop Project (A documentary produced by Bruce Willis and Queen Latifah) has been life changing. And being that blessing to someone else is far more than another career choice; it’s a life mission. Also a psychologist would have been a career path for me, I’ve always been interested in the way people think. That frame of mind has definitely helped me as a Songwriter.

Keep up with Cocoa on Twitter.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Fox of the Week [11/19] JJ aka JaJuan


JJ is a model from Denver. She has been featured in VBlazin and the premiere issue of Urban Curves. She discusses her start and her plans for her modeling career, as well as her love for sports. She appears courtesy of Stallion Models.

How did you get started modeling?

I got into the modeling industry accidentally. There was a contest a couple of years ago promoted by the local sports radio station in Denver. They were looking for a squad of attractive young ladies to do promotions for the station at different sporting events around the city. Well being the sports fan that I am, I realized it would be an opportunity to go to all of the major sporting events. Denver is a big sports city (football, basketball, hockey, soccer, Lacrosse) so I was all over it!. I ended up being selected. We did a lot of various promotions, and photo shoots. That opened the door for me and I was hooked!

What do you think is your best feature?

My smile is by far my best physical feature!

What is your favorite part of modeling? What would you say is most challenging?

My favorite part of modeling is the travel, meeting different people, and the different looks you can portray with each shoot. The most challenging part would have to be finding ways to balance your time. Modeling is very demanding and time consuming. It's challenging to find ways to get everything done.

What makes you look at a photo and say "Wow!"?

Depends on the type of photo I'm looking at. I like a photo with beautiful background scenery. Also if a model is in the picture, and they can talk to me with their eyes (Despite what they may or may not be wearing) then that is definitely a "Wow" picture.

You're a big sports fan. What sporting event would you most like to attend? Why?

Just about any type of sporting event, but I absolutely LOVE going to football games. Football is my absolute FAVORITE! The energy is incredible and there's nothing like tailgating before the game!

Who are some models you admire? Why?

Elke The Stallion - Elke is not only a beauty, she is an educated Business Woman that keeps it real!
Jayonna Fabro - Jayonna is another educated Business Woman with drive and spirit. She is very stunning yet very down to earth and humble
Ladi Mahogony Da Foxx - Foxx is absolutely amazing! She is beautiful and a go-getter. Another strong, educated woman about business. She is just an all-around positive person!
Paige Monroe - What can I say Paige is a beautiful intelligent business woman that is not afraid to bring new ideas to the table or even take a risk! That's what business is about!
Mesha Model - Mesha is absolutely amazing! She is gorgeous,and an extremely talented business owner.
And of course Tyra Banks!

What is one goal you feel you must accomplish in your career?

I not only want to make myself a brand, but I want to help other models learn and excel from my experiences as well.

Follow JJ on Twitter.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Hip-hop/RnB singer Barr: I want to make a difference


Barr is a singer from New York. When he was a member of the Boys Choir of Harlem, he had the opportunity to perform with some amazing artists. He discusses his beginnings on piano, his growth as an artist, and his political aspirations.

You began playing piano at age 4. What was your favorite kind of music to play when you were growing up?

My favorite kind of music to play was early Jazz and Classical music.

You've had the opportunity to perform with some incredible artists (Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, etc). How has this helped you grow as an artist?

I feel the opportunity of performing with such artists has helped me to understand my history of music and to gain ideas and new methods that helped me cultivate my style and ability of music. In addition it has increased my level of humility. If there is not one thing I learned that in this industry, it is essential to know where you are going. Above all it is imperative to know where you came from.

If you could write and perform a song with one artist, who would it be? Why?

Any legendary icon! I am always willing to work with people who are as driven, motivated and hungry as I am.

Of what accomplishment are you most proud?

There are many things for me to be proud of, but one accomplishment has to be me discovery my passion for music and completing my first solo independent album.

What is one goal you hope to accomplish in your career?

To be honest, this question is increasingly difficult because as an aspiring artist I am always setting new goals for myself. However, one short-term goal I have is that I want to establish myself as one of the greatest artist to be in the music industry. Also, I want to make a difference within the music industry in terms of innovative sound, record-breaking sales, consecutive number one records and many more.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

I would say Politics. I actually had dreams and aspirations of being the first Black President of The United States but that milestone has been reached. Other than that, I would be a professor of music.

Barr appears courtesy of Tawag Promotions. Barr's CD Barrcode is available on CDBaby.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Fox of the Week [11/12]: Jayonna Fabro


Jayonna Fabro is an all-natural model (36-27-43) from Columbus, Ohio. She has been featured in Show Magazine. She discusses her start in modeling, her best feature, and models she admires.

How did you get started modeling?

I did a shoot for a calender for a night club in Ohio! A few months later I was asked to shoot for SHOW mag!

What would you say is your best feature?

I love my eyes...But people seem to be more focused on my booty. [laughs]

What kind of exercise regime do you maintain to stay in such great shape?

I do light weights with high reps plus a lot of cardio! I love the Stairmaster and bike riding!

Who are some models you admire? Why?

Buffie the Body she is such a business woman and I love that!

Andrea Marie she is my best friend and my sis! She is so sweet and so down to earth! I love her so much! We are the Italian Stallion team!

Of what accomplishment in your career so far are you most proud?

I'm just happy that I have made it thus far! Magazine appearances are great but graduating college is my most important accomplishment for me! I'm headed into Radio/TV personality! In my opinion this is just the beginning for me!

If you could only accomplish one goal in your career, what would it be?

I just wanna be successful!!

Follow Jayonna on Twitter.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Captain Incredible: you should stop listening to the radio


Captain Incredible is a hard-rocking, noise-blasting quartet from Dallas, Texas. Born in the dormitories of Denton, Texas (home of the excellent band Slobberbone) and raised on the shores of California, Captain Incredible now gladly calls North Dallas their home. They bring panty-dropping guitar riffs, face melting solos, bone crushing drum beats, and one and a half balls worth of bass to each and every live performance. The band members discuss who they would like to discuss music with, the band's sound, and the superpowers each member possesses.

Describe your sound for someone who has never heard the band.

Too Punk for Metal, too Metal for Punk. For practicality sake, you could file our music under the rock or punk genres in a record store. Our music is the offspring of Classic Rock and Classic Punk Rock; when our lawyer first heard us he said, "Sounds like Black Sabbath and Bad Religion made a baby."

Where would you file your music in a record store?

In the Rock or Punk sections.

What is essential to every Captain Incredible song?

At least one guitar solo, and some balls.

Why should I have your music in my collection?

It is good "go to" music for those days when you just want to scream. And because you should really stop listening to the radio.

If you could have a beer and a conversation about music with anyone, who would you choose? Why?

Phipps - Jimmy Page (do I really need to explain?)

Josh - Keith Moon, although there would have to be more than one beer involved to make this scenario work. Why Keith Moon? Just to get hammered with him, to watch him get hammered all night. I would never want to pick his brain or anything, we would just drink and party all night, so much so that talking itself would become laborious, we would both be incoherent.

Ben - Dave Grohl. I dig every project he has been a part of, mostly the Foo Fighters. He seems like he would be a kickass dude to have a beer with period.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

Well we all have a penchant for delivering justice by any means necessary, so the four of us would probably form a vigilante superhero coalition of some sorts. I mean, we already possess superpowers too: Phipps is a brain and possesses telekinesis, Josh has superhuman strength, Ben can fly, and Casey has X-RAY vision (mostly for his own distasteful peeping habit). Or masturbating.

Follow Captain Incredible on Twitter.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Fox of the Week [11/5] Shawna Michelle

Shawna Michelle is a model from Atlanta (That's 2 consecutive weeks of ATL Foxes). She discusses her start, her best feature, and being featured on the cover of Straight Stuntin's Anniversary issue.

How did you get started in modeling?

A good friend booked me a professional photo shoot and I fell in love with modeling from that point on.

What has been your favorite modeling job so far? Why?

Being featured on the cover of Straight Stuntin Magazine's Anniversary issue. I did the photo shoot with Charles of Import Eye Candy Studios in DC. It was so fun. We went downtown and shot right in the streets in my panties.

What would you say is your best feature?

My eyes. They draw you in and tell you a story.

What's more challenging, modeling or pursuing a Bachelor's in accounting?

Modeling is more challenging. You have to constantly keep reinventing yourself. There is always competition and you have to keep up.

Who are some models you admire? Why?

I admire Tiara Xclusive. She is the most slept on model I know. She has an awesome body that she works hard for.

What is one goal you hope to accomplish in your career?

I hope to become a Wardrobe Stylist. That is my long time goal.

Follow Shawna Michelle on Twitter.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Hill Country Revue: aggressive dance music



Hill Country Revue was formed when Cody Dickinson and Chris Chew of North Mississippi All-Stars joined forces with three other musicians and cchief songwriter Garry Burnside. Via phone, Cody Dickinson compared this project with North Mississippie All-Stars, explained what is essential to every Hill Country Revue song, and stated what he would be doing if he were not making music.

Compare and contrast Hill Country Revue with North Mississippi All-Stars.
There are more similarities than differences musically. Performing is a whole new beast. In the All-Stars I play drums. In Hill Country, I play guitar and washboard. I feel liberated.

Describe the difference between those two, aside from your placement on stage.

Drumming is really about endurance, especially for a two or three-hour show. With the All-Stars, Luther handles the set list. With Hill Country, I have taken on more responsibility and leadership. I feel like I have more creative control. With Hill Country, I have to warm up on guitar. I spend half an hour to an hour just playing scales before the set. As far as the sound, Hill Country is more of a modern rock fused with traditional hill country blues. "Let Me Love You Baby" started out as a primitive blues tune. And that is Garry Burnside's influence. His music is direct and relatable. We're already working on the next record. The concept and the songs are there. It's going to be a stripped, raw, old-fashioned blues. But also new and modern. That's pretty unusual in 2009, that you could have authentic modern blues. Garry Burnside is the real thing. He is our creative guru.

How did the collaboration with Garry Burnside come about? What did he bring to the album that no one else could?

Garry and I have been friends for fifteen years. I grew up watching him with Junior Kimbrough and with his dad (RL Burnside). I was impressed with his songwriting ability when I saw him with his band Burnside Exploration. I saw him cut twenty songs in one day, and most of those were original tunes. He was one of the first people I called about Make a Move. We push each other and when we are locked in, we're unstoppable.
As for what he could bring to the album that no one else could, I would say the authenticity of his songs. And his knowledge of the hill country blues is unmatched. He is a walking encyclopedia. Playing bass for Junior Kimbrough and being RL's son, his knowledge of the blues is unparalleled for his age. No one his age has that amount of exposure with the blues.

On the band's website, Make a Move is described as nasty. What makes it a nasty album?

That's a good question. There is something provocative, a sexual tension that comes from our songs. You listen to these songs like "Let Me Love You" and they're not just about my girlfriend. They're about your girlfriend too. They're directed at all girlfriends. They are sexually charged. And when I play the electric washboard...that's more than just nasty. It's downright vulgar. [laughs]

What is essential to every Hill Country Revue song?

Lyrics that are relatable. The music has to be trancelike. The rhythm has to make backsides shake, but not like funk. This is aggressive dance music.

Who would you like to tour with any time? Who would you like to tour with, but haven't yet?

Kid Rock would be perfect for Hill Country Revue to tour with. We'd like to tour with bands that aren't necessarily in our genre: Kings of Leon, Zutons, someone like that. One of Jack White's projects would be a good fit for us. Allman Brothers, Widespread Panic, Black Crowes. We played with Warren Haynes and Gov't Mule. We played a weekend with Dave Matthews Band in Indy.

I saw North Mississippi All-Stars with Felice Brothers and Drive-By Truckers at House of Blues Anaheim.

I remember that show. We just played with Drive-By Truckers. That was great. Patterson Hood is the American songwriter right now.

What would you be doing if you weren't making music?

Man, that is a good question. I'd probably be six feet under. It's all I know. It's all I care to do. I can't imagine doing anything else. Well, I could be studying astrophysics, trying to prove string theory and the existence of black holes, but that's highly unlikely.

This is a reprint of an interview originally published on Examiner on 30 August 2009.