Vonnegutt – Live Video Recap

Posted: February 12th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: BLOG, VIDEO

Friends Vonnegutt returned to Star Community Bar last month to play our our free show series w/ Bosco and Killer & The Savage. Whynatte co-hosted the party. It was super fun and super cool of Vonnegutt considering the whirlwind year they had in 2011. These guys are so fresh and so pro. Enjoy this video recap I just found of the show!

BOSCO #supportlocal #ATLmusic

Posted: January 27th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: BLOG

BOSCO officially kicked off a tour fundraiser campaign today. Check it:

Viva La Balkans via Summerlin

Posted: January 21st, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

Friend Tony Summerlin (Atlanta) recently made this super cool video for Zebra Print by Balkans. Here it is. Love it.

Balkans Zebra Print video from tony summerlin on Vimeo.

Jarren Benton – “Shut Up Bitch” (Prod. Kato)

Posted: January 19th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

Jarren Benton – “Shut Up Bitch” (Prod. Kato)

This just in from SMKA:

This is the Official Music Video for “Shut Up Bitch” by Jarren Benton off his upcoming project Freebasing With Kevin Bacon. There is currently a REMIX COMPETITION for Shut Up Bitch, hosted by The Freak Beat & DJBooth.net, for more details and how to enter CLICK HERE. The winner will have their song featured on Jarren’s upcoming project as a bonus track.

 

Jarren Benton’s Bitch #ATLmusic

Posted: January 18th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

When my friend Mike Walbert from SMKA called a while back to ask if I wanted to be “an extra in a hip-hop video,” I must admit that I had a few preconceived notions of what this might entail;) But true to form, he had other things in mind. Wait for it…

Ps. I love Jarren Benton. Check out his previous work:

NYE via Video Rahim #ATLmusic

Posted: January 18th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

Video Rahim came out to our NYE bash at Star Community Bar, and this is what he saw! Check it out:

We are more alike… #atlmusic

Posted: January 18th, 2012 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

I recently had the opportunity to work production on a shoot with the amazing Zach Wolfe. Check out The Human Family. You will recognize a few faces.

The Human Family from zachwolfe.com/live on Vimeo.

Holiday Soiree – Recap

Posted: December 27th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

Much love and thanks to all that came out to our 4th Ward Heroes Holiday Soirée last week at Star Bar Atlanta — so much fun! Factory, Mood Rings, Gorgeous, Cole Alexander, and Bradord Cox put on some really stellar performances. I am a very lucky girl to have such amazingly talented friends. Speaking of friends, my friend Matthew Smith of Shadowboxer Photography sent me a very special video he captured of Bradford Cox performing a Christmas song he wrote titled “Artificial Snow” live at the event and some cool pics of a few of the performances (below). Happy Holidays! Enjoy!

Bradford Cox – Artificial Snow from Shadowboxer Photography on Vimeo.

P.S. You can download all five versions of the song here: Atlas Sound – Artificial Snow

— Photo Recap —

Mood Rings, Atlanta

Old King Cole Younger (Cole Alexander of Black Lips), Atlanta

Bradford Cox (of Atlas Sound and Deerhunter), Atlanta

 

Well I’ll be a Motherfluffer… What an honor!

Posted: November 18th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

You might have heard that my brethren over at Whynatte recently ran a Facebook contest to name the new Whynatte and Pinnacle Marshmallow Vodka shot. Congratulations to friends over at Mixtape Atlanta who came up with “Mother Fluffer” and took home the prize! I just saw the artwork by Esperanza ATL, and lo and behold!, those latte lovers over at Whynatte included a handful of Atlanta brands said to inspire them. Check out that Mother Fluffer’s lapel pin! Apparently he’s a 4th Ward Heroes fan! What an honor fellas! You’re the best.

Here’s a close up shot:

And here’s the poster in all its deliciousness:

You can pick up an 18×24″ print in the Whynatte store. Click HERE.

Scoutmob + The Earl #atlmusic

Posted: November 9th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Needless to say, I love this idea. Click the image above to enter! Good luck!

Live like a groupie at the Earl. Explore ATL with Scoutmob. Experience the best of ATL music with a season pass to The Earl. Scoutmob is that nudge you need to get out the door and do your local thing. They feature local businesses who, in return, support you with crazy-good savings (like 50% off Radial Cafe now on the app). Join the ‘mob today for a chance to win an $800 credit to our favorite venue in town, and explore your city with this local guide to awesomeness.

11/06-11/12 #atlmusic

Posted: November 7th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Ahhhhhhhh, not a single 4th Ward Heroes show on the books this week;) …but no rest for the wicked minxes, here’s a short list of some sure things happening around the a-town, see you there.

Thursday 11/10
Friends over at Dude City hosts Winter Sounds (Nashville), The Rocketboys (Austin), The Head (Atlanta) at 529, 529 Flat Shoals Ave. (+Glenwood), East Atlanta Village, 9PM/18+/$5/+RSVP: http://on.fb.me/ttNYKV

Friday 11/11
Friends over at Tight Bros Network and Triple Ds present Thee Oh Sees (San Francisco), Total Control (Australia), Carnivores (Atlanta) at The Earl, 488 Flat Shoals Ave., East Atlanta Village, 9PM/21+/$12/+RSVP: http://on.fb.me/v8AK0w

Sunday 11/13
Balkans are back in town and headlining The Earl, 488 Flat Shoals Ave., East Atlanta Village, via Tight Bros Network w/ Ganglians (Sacramento) and Twin Tigers (Athens), 8PM/ 21+/$10/+RSVP: http://on.fb.me/tmZjej

 

10/31/11: The Day Davila Came to Town

Posted: November 6th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Photo of Zach Wolfe with members of Davila 666 by @malissasole via http://instagr.am/

—

Friends Davila 666 were in town last week to headline a killer show for Triple D’s on Halloween Night at The Earl w/ Jacuzzi Boys, Barreracudas, and Predator. It was super fun times!

I thought it a fine time to team up w/ photographer Zach Wolfe to produce a photo shoot for some of my favorite fellas the day of the show. He also got a lot of great live shots and captured some backstage madness. I’ll try to post some of those this coming week. In the meantime, here’s a sneak peak… Enjoy!

p.s. today is actually Giancarlo’s birthday, Happy Birthday Gigi!

All photos courtesy of Zach Wolfe.

Tom Cheshire & Just A Little Piece of Heartburn

Posted: August 18th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Today marks the release of Tom Cheshire’s debut poetry chapbook Just a Little Piece of Heartburn.

I can’t wait to get my hands on it. Congratulations Tom!

Read all about the release via this post “Tom Cheshire Offers Up Just A Little Piece of Heartburn,” by Mo Castro up at Latest Disgrace.

More importantly, pick up a copy for yourself over at Safety Third Enterprises.

I’ve Got A Knife by Tom Cheshire from Safety Third on Vimeo.

Pitter Patter by Tom Cheshire from Safety Third on Vimeo.

Tragédie opens at Beep Beep Gallery Jun 4 (-26)

Posted: June 3rd, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

I’m a big fan of Sanithna Phansavanh, so I’m really looking forward to checking out his upcoming show w/ Louis N. LaPierre titled Tragédie. It opens tomorrow evening – Saturday June 4th – at Beep Beep Gallery. Click the poster for more details /+rsvp! The opening reception starts at 7 pm, so you can head over there directly after Artlantis Arts & Music Festival.

 

We are all raised on very specific types of stories. Those of heroism
and triumph, those of valor and beauty. Fortitude, honor, perseverance,
love. Stories to bolster our passion and enrich our spirit, told to
inspire and uplift. Tales that, through their fantasy, inevitably become
improbable ideals and impractical touchstones. Rare standards when
compared to truth. Instead, we have exchanged knights in shining armor for
Apocalyptic horsemen, fair princess-maidens for damaged harlots, and
magical kingdoms for flooded cities. Happy endings for sad realities.

“Tragédie” explores stories of melancholy. Inspired by history and
fiction, Louis N. LaPierre and Sanithna Phansavanh reinterpret narratives
through drawings and paintings.

——

Louis N. LaPierre arranges paint on paper to depict contemporary
wastelands mixed with the mundane human existence that fosters our
surrounding’s continuous state of flux. It is an exploration into bitter
happiness and sweet despair. Diving into utter realities and the joys of
being left in the dark. In the end it is a search into finding comfort in
the uncomfortable, a constant struggle to search out truth when there is
no clear truth insight.

Sanithna Phansavanh is an artist living and working in Atlanta, Georgia.
His figurative work explores the romance and sorrow of the human
condition, particularly the core elements of life, death, and longing.
Each piece, in oil, acrylic, or graphite, contributes to a continuing
narrative that attempts to define a personal struggle with creation,
existence, and permanence. He likes building sofa forts on Sunday mornings
and really, really dislikes mosquitoes. Like, really.

Sanithna Phansavanh is an artist living and working in Atlanta, Georgia.
His figurative work explores the romance and sorrow of the human
condition, particularly the core elements of life, death, and longing.
Each piece, in oil, acrylic, or graphite, contributes to a continuing
narrative that attempts to define a personal struggle with creation,
existence, and permanence. He likes building sofa forts on Sunday mornings
and really, really dislikes mosquitoes. Like, really.

 

Artlantis returns this Saturday!

Posted: June 3rd, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Artlantis returns for its 3rd year to showcase art and music from local talent on the lawn of Druid Hills Baptist Church. Congratulations to everyone over at Beep Beep Gallery!

June 4th, 2011 10am-7pm
1085 Ponce De Leon Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30306
http://artlantisfestival.wordpress.com
http://www.facebook.com/artlantisfestival

Be sure to check out the live performances! And bring the kids! This is one of those events adored by people of all ages.

Details / full line up here: http://artlantisfestival.wordpress.com/music/

Record Store Day 2011

Posted: April 12th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Oh, Record Store Day how I love thee.

Head on over to Criminal Records on Saturday April 16th for 12+ hours of free all ages fun. Click the poster for details and live performance schedule. See you there! 

Wanna Mess Around?

Posted: April 12th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

You’re in luck. The Atlanta Mess-Around returns this weekend!

Triple Ds know how to throw a party. Having nearly recovered from last year’s messing around, I’m looking forward to it!

Click the poster for more info or visit http://www.badearl.com/ and http://www.529atl.com/ for show schedules.

TWO DAY PASS: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/13340.aspx
April 15 Night pass: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/13568.aspx
April 16 Night: http://ticketalternative.com/Events/13567.aspx

 

//// SXSW 2011

Posted: March 25th, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Here’s a little slide show of dirty iPhone pics. Enjoy!

All Photos Malissa Sole of 4th Ward Heroes

//// DEAR AUSTIN, ALICE LIKES YOU 2011

Posted: March 22nd, 2011 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

//// SXSW 2011 recap in pictures by Alice Kim aka Alice Likes You. Enjoy the show!

shout out to our friends! xoxo

//// BRAD + CECIL + JOHN + BRIAN

//// ADRIAN + JOHN

//// JESSE + WARREN

//// TERESA + AMANDA

//// ZACH + ADRIANA

//// JOHNNY

//// SERGIO + MALISSA + GIANCARLO

All Photos by Alice Kim

October rocked, thanks to all of you.

Posted: November 2nd, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, VIDEO

October was a fantastic month for 4th Ward Heroes thanks to all of you! I kicked things off working with Bands on Demand and Star Community Bar at the Little Five Points Halloween Festival on October 16th.  Bands on Demand got a bunch of great footage including interviews with many local bands on the bill, so be sure to check out the episode Channel 1 > Get Local > ATL Music and Movie Scene > Bands On Demand.

On behalf of myself and co-presenters Kim Burdges + Jessica Lewis of Mixtape Atlanta, much love + thanks to everyone who came out to DigATL Circus on October 28th at Star Community Bar. What a fun night! Special thanks to all of the performers: Travis Thatcher [aka Voice of Saturn], Cousin Dan, Fly Golden Eagle, Shitty Candy & The Circus Peanuts, Machines Are People Too and The Falcon Lords! Truly fantastic performances all around!

Thank you to all of our production assistants and glowstick girls Veronica Yung, Jedi Jess, Aliya Carnes, Christianna Merry Huber, Alice Kim. We could not have pulled it off without all of you! And everyone at Nao Media & Consulting, The Silver Tongue Online, and Mindzai Creative. Be sure to check out your portraits over at Mixtape Atlanta: Pick Up Your DIGATL Photos.

Travis Thatcher put together this little montage of footage of the show! Enjoy!

Much love, M!

Travis Thatcher’s Escape to New York

Posted: July 12th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Travis Thatcher’s Escape to New York starring Recompas, Border Country, Sand Castles, Retconned, Lyonnais, Don Hassler & Jason Butcher, Sawforest, and Social Studies!

Sunday, July 18th @EyeDrum

and now a message from the noise maker:

I’m leaving town and throwing a noisy party! Lots of amazing bands. Come early (5ish) for some grillin out, bring some meat or non-meat. Basically, it’s the best show I ever could have imagined!

Sounds like a plan fella! See you there.

All-Ages | Show starts at 8pm | $5 donation | 290 MLK ATL

You can rsvp by clicking the poster by Nate & Meriam (just ask somebody).

Long Live Pop Death Sqad!

Posted: July 3rd, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Three years ago… three amigos got together and joined forces with Star Community Bar and… Olé! Big Trouble in Little Five Points was born! The 3rd Thursday of every month would never be the same. Pop Death Squad revitalized the local music scene in the heart of Little Five. Thursday became the new Friday, Friday became call into work day, babies were born with slight cases of tinnitus and a hankering for PBR, a good time was had by all.

You probably thought it was just their clever way to pick up hispter chicks, but truth be told these music lovers helped reinvigorate the local music scene and helped shape the way shows are made here in The A. In true DIY spirit, they teamed up with the good folks over at Star Bar and figured out a way to showcase bands and increase audience participation by offering free shows. And the kicker is the bands still get paid a little somethin somthin along the way! Genius? Not really, that’s just how they roll. Before you knew it, music lovers from far and wide made their way to Star Bar looking for a free show every Thursday night and the Star Bar welcomed them, opening up opportunities for other rogue promoters (ahem! like 4th Ward Heroes) to have a shot at a free Thursday night. Presto! The Nice Mafia was born.

On Thursday July 15th, we say adios to Big Trouble! Raise your glass, tip your sombrero, but don’t you dare shed a tear, because the 3rd Thursday of every month at Star Community Bar will still be home to Team Luis! (only it will likely be called something like Team Luis Presents: Little Five is for Lovers). So come on out! Make merry! Make hipster babies! Ladies, this may very well be your last chance to get the three of them drunk and make out with all them all in the same night! RSVP by clicking the poster below! See u there! M!

Southern Gothic by The Constellations

Posted: June 21st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Southern Gothic by The Constellations – Download Southern Gothic on iTunes

Congratulations to The Constellations on the release of their debut album Southern Gothic!

Click the link above to purchase a copy on iTunes.

Or go local!

You can also order Southern Gothic online from Criminal Records.

Follow this link: http://criminalatl.com/Artist/626198

Head on over to Criminal Records on Tuesday June 22nd for their free all ages in-store performance at 7pm!

1154-A Euclid Avenue NE Little Five Points You might want to get there a little early;) See you there! xo

A Statement from David Prasse on Warren Ullom of The Judies

Posted: June 10th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Warren Ullom of The Judies Sentenced to 20 Years

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

On Monday, June 7, 2010, Warren Eugene Ullom, the 24 year old lead singer of the Atlanta rock group The Judies pled guilty to a charge of voluntary manslaughter in connection with the overdose death of Rachel San Inocencio which occurred on June 6, 2008. Facing a potential lifetime in prison, Mr. Ullom accepted a plea and was sentenced to 20 years. The sad death of Ms. Inocencio and Mr. Ullom’s conviction are a grim reminder of the dangers of using heroin. Judge Doris Downs, who sentenced Mr. Ullom, solemnly commented, “one life has been lost in this incident and now we are losing another.” Mr. Ullom has been drug free for over 18 months and has been a positive and creative member of society since the unfortunate 2008 incident.

David W. Prasse, an entertainment attorney and co-owner of The Judies’ label, said, “Warren is one of the most talented musicians I’ve ever met. He’s a gifted songwriter, amazing entertainer and a truly brilliant person. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time with him over the last year as this impending situation had been hanging over his head. He managed to turn his life around and remarkably he focused on his music and worked to keep his friends from being depressed about his situation. Over the last year he’s become one of my best friends and I miss him already. This was a no win situation. On behalf of his family and friends, we wish him a speedy release.”

—
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1hCSKxJ9DI

Exciting summer for Modern Skirts!

Posted: May 20th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Artist to Watch Alert: Modern Skirts

I have been a big Modern Skirts fan ever since I moved to the ATL and stumbled on a show. They’re without a doubt some of the finest fellas a girl can know. Word is that The Skirts are currently at home in the studio in Athens recording a new 6 song EP scheduled to be release later on this Summer as a prelude to their new full-length album to be released this Fall. And they need your help! They recently posted some new tracks from the upcoming EP over at http://www.reverbnation.com/modernskirts. So, check them out! (I especially love Bumper Car). And then head over to http://kck.st/c62I8a where you can help release the new album by joining their KickStarter Campaign! The deadline is June 28th! Pledges start at $5! Donating $10 is like basically buying the album but direct from the source! Higher pledges get all kinds of goodies in return. For example, $50 gets you the new album, EP, release party poster, advance vinyl, and you get to pick a song of theirs that you love, and they record a one of a kind version for you and only you. $1k gets you your own house party. I kid you not. Someone help, I need a thousand dollars!

Click on the widget below to check it out or visit http://kck.st/c62I8a

There are other ways to help! Share that link! Pass it on! http://kck.st/c62I8a

Coming up!

On Saturday June 19th Modern Skirts headline The Earl w/ The Features and Skybox. Details here: http://www.badearl.com/ Buy advanced tickets here: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/11078.aspx and on Friday June 25th they headline AthFest! Details here: http://www.athfest.com/

Check out the photos of Modern Skirts at the 40 Watt Party at SXSW 2010 here: http://4thwardheroes.com/2010/03/sxsw-chronicles-modern-skirts/

Much love & thanks!

Posted: May 11th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Much love and thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate my birthday on Saturday night at Star Community Bar!

You are all the best of friends!

Special thanks to Part Bear, Tom Cheshire & Mike Shina, Travis Thatcher, Kellen Crosby, Benji Hughes, Trevor Jones, Lam Nguyen and The Judies for bringing the magic.

Best birthday party ever!

Kick Like Me – The Judies

Posted: April 27th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS, VIDEO

The Judies recently shot this video with friend and entertainment attorney David W. Prasse. I love the all star cast. Locals will recognize many of these familiar places and beautiful faces.

Enjoy!

Shot by David Prasse and his iPhone | © 2010 Slush Fund Recordings, LLC

looking ahead to the weekend

Posted: April 20th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Rock the weekend with a few Atlanta favorites and four (yes, four!) great bands from Nashville!

Thursday 22 April : Come see The Judies (Atlanta) takeover Star Bar in Little Five Points with Harrison Hudson (Nashvillle), Milktooth, (Nashville) and Molly Parden (Atlanta). It’s going to be quite a party. I can’t tell you all the details just yet. All I can say is it’s free. Doors are at 9pm. 21+ please. And you don’t want to miss it. Details here: http://bit.ly/atFjbO

Friday 23 April : Head on over to Studioplex in the O4W for Aviary and Alternative Apparel‘s  Birds of a Feather Rock Together! (the Earth Day After Party) w/ Ocha La Rocha (Atlanta) and Carnivores (Atlanta). 6-9 pm. Details here: http://www.aviarybeauty.com/rock-together/

After you are feeling oh-so-very-earth-licious-ly-lovely, head on over to 529 in East Atlanta Village for some good old country rock and roll with Mike La Sage and The Stumbling Troubadours (Atlanta) and special guests Jonny Corndawg (Nashville) and Jacob Jones (Nashville). I promise you will want to sing along! And come to think of it ladies – this might just be one of the best looking bills I have ever put together. Details here: http://bit.ly/djHE7n

As always, I hope to see you at the show!

Trances Arc is off to Athens this wkend in support of Spencer Frye!

Posted: April 20th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

I love me some politics. Mix politics with music, and I’m yours.

Our good friends Trances Arc are off to Athens Saturday April 24th to play a political rally at Caledonia!

What? Yesssir. You read right!

A message from Trances Arc:

Come rock with us at the Caledonia Lounge Saturday the 24th in support of our good friend Spencer Frye. He is running for Mayor of Athens!! Come meet him and drink too many adult beverages.

Sounds like we’ve got a reason to rally right there folks.

So who is this Spencer Fry? Well, apart from being a great guy (yes, I’ve met him), he’s also the Executive Director of Habitat For Humanity in Athens. Find out more about Spencer at http://www.spencerfrye.com/

Rsvp via facebook here: Spencer for Mayor Show! or click the fabulous poster below! Good things!

What a weekend!

Posted: April 16th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

One of my favorite artists in the universe (yes, in…the…universe!) is playing Coachella tonight. You know- that little music festival out in Indio, California. Yep, yep. Fever Ray. Oh, Karin Andersson, how I love thee! And also appearing tomorrow at Coachella, some fellas you might recognize called The Almighty Defenders. And let’s not forget our friends B.o.B also appearing at Coachella on Sunday! Atlanta is well represented on the West Coast!

So, what’s a girl to do? Hold it down! here at home!

No worries kids, there’s a lot to be psyched about right here in The ATL this weekend! And unlike next weekend, I don’t have a single event so I plan to make full use of the time off.

Here we Go ATL!

Record Store Day 2010 here we come!
See you at Criminal Records in L5P on S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y!

Support local bands and local business by grabbing a physical copy of some fantastic local releases at Criminal Records. Shout out to this feature Share your record shop memories | Michael Hann | Music | guardian.co.uk. Did you know? 529, Alternative Apparel, Criminal Records, Pop Death Squad, Star Bar, Whynatte, and little old 4th Ward Heroes (among others) all got shout outs in the liner notes of Judi Chicago’s Bright Lights, Fun City. True story! And such an honor! Thanks fellas. So hey you, have a listen to the album here: http://www.judichicago.com/ and then go get yourself a physical copy at Criminal Records on Saturday!

I’ll be there at noon to take my first look at this!

http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/349810/we-fun-documents-a-loud-and-frantic-atlanta.jhtml

Go Atl! Fun times.

Head on over to Star Community Bar later that evening to catch Noot D’ Noot, The Fourth Ward Afro-Klezmer Orchestra and Recompas .

Be sure to catch Recompas who are bringing along some very special guests. I can’t tell, but it’s gonna be FUN. I can tell you Trav’s younger brother Nate is in town. And I think he’s single. I hear he’s an excellent cook. Just sayin…

And, if this were not enough for one Saturday in April…

GOLDSWEAT is at MJQ!

I’m going to get my cardio time in with Dubbel Dutch + Buckmaster + Capt Crunk + Black Dominoes!

Get into the mood! Go here to download WakingInTheWarmSun.mp3 for free! A fantastic mix created by / courtesy of the ever so talented DJ Black Dominoes (aka Kellen Crosby).

All weekend long, The Sweetwater 420 Fest is over in Candler Park!

I am pretty sure Whynatte will be there with a heard of dancing llamas handing out the latte.

WHAT: 6th Annual SweetWater 420 Fest
WHEN: Saturday, April 17 and Sunday, April 18
WHERE: Candler Park, Atlanta
TIME: Saturday- Noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday- 12:30 to 8 p.m.
COST: $5 for a wristband to purchase beer
Free admission if you’re under 21 or don’t want to Buy beer
INFO: www.sweetwater420fest.com

I will be there on Sunday to get my blue grass on with The Packway Handle Band! I heart them!

So there you go Atlanta! Lots to do this weekend! As always, I hope to see you at the show! M!

Atlanta Music Guide » Blog Archive » AMG SXSW ‘10 Q & A with Malissa Sole of 4th Ward Heroes

Posted: April 14th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

In the hustle of March, I forgot to give a shout out to Atlanta Music Guide for this! Much love and thanks to Luis Sandoval (whom I believe was directly responsible) and all of the writers over at AMG for their continued support and all that they do.

The photo they grabbed was taken backstage post  Constellations show by hometown hero Eric De Fino of RayGun. Check him out at http://www.raygun.com/

Check it out here:

Atlanta Music Guide » Blog Archive » AMG SXSW ‘10 Q & A with Malissa Sole of 4th Ward Heroes.

april is happening

Posted: April 9th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

I have a few events on the calendar coming up this weekend where I do hope to catch a glimpse of your beautiful face.

First up there is The Judies in-store performance at Criminal Records on Saturday! Grab a copy of their debut album The Judies for $9.99 and take home a little piece of custom artwork by R. Land.

Click here for more info: The Judies | Criminal Records In-Store Performance | Saturday April 10th | 6pm

Later that evening, I am taking the night off and heading over to see Mermaids play w/ Carnivores and The Selmanaires at Highland Ballroom.

Triple D’s Presents: The Selmanaires, Carnivores, & Mermaids at The Highland Ballroom | Saturday April 10th | 9PM

Sunday, I’ll be at MINT Gallery for the Working Class Heroes Photography Exhibit Closing Party from 3-6pm.

Details here: Closing Party: Working Class Heroes Exhibit @MINTgallery | 3-6pm

I am super psyched about some things coming up this month that I will tell you more about very soon, but in the meantime, my favorite day of the year is almost here. Yep! April 17th is Record Store Day 2010! I wanted to give a shout out to all the folks over at Criminal Records who really do a fantastic job with this event. I will be taking the day off and getting there early. This year’s line up can be found here: http://criminalatl.com/Event/36738

I am pulling this straight from the Criminal Records Newsletter:

“An all-day event featuring EIGHT live bands, exclusive releases from your favorite bands and labels, plus beer (thanks, Pabst Blue Ribbon!) and cake (because it ain’t a party without cake!), in addition to a bargain-filled sidewalk sale and contests and giveaways and all sorts of fun stuff.

Oh, yeah, and we’ll be screening the documentary, We Fun, throughout the day (the DVD comes out on April 17th, and we’ll have it on sale for only $9.99 for that day only. It goes up to $21.99 on Sunday!) Aaaaaand if that isn’t enough partying for you, there will be an after-party at the Star Bar featuring Noot d’ Noot, Recompas, and the 4th Ward AKO!

Seriously, y’all won’t want to miss a minute of this awesome day. We’re opening early at 10am and closing late at 10pm, then re-opening for our exclusive, late-night closing ceremony with Rodriguez. Whew!”

Yes! Yes! Looking forward to it!

SXSW CHRONICLES | JONNY CORNDAWG | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: April 1st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Jonny Corndawg

http://www.myspace.com/thecorndawg

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Jerry Fuchs Stage | Side Bar | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICLES | THE WHIGS | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: April 1st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

The Whigs

http://www.thewhigs.com/

http://www.myspace.com/thewhigs

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Vic Chesnutt Stage | Side Bar | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICLES | PACKWAY HANDLE BAND | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: March 31st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

PACKWAY HANDLE BAND

http://www.myspace.com/thepackwayhandleband

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Side Bar | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICLES | WARPAINT | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: March 31st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

WARPAINT

http://www.myspace.com/worldwartour

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Vic Chesnutt Stage | Side Bar | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICLES | J RODDY WALSTON AND THE BUSINESS | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: March 31st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

J RODDY WALSTON AND THE BUSINESS

http://www.myspace.com/jroddy
http://www.jroddy.net/

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Vic Chesnutt Stage | Side Bar | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICLES | Lera Lynn

Posted: March 31st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Lera Lynn | We Put The A in Austin | Friday March 19th | Light Bar | Austin TX

http://www.myspace.com/leralynn

SXSW CHRONICLES | THE CONSTELLATIONS

Posted: March 31st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

The Constellations | Friday March 19th | Dirty Dog | Austin TX

http://www.myspace.com/theconstellations

SXSW CHRONICLES | 40 WATT PARTY

Posted: March 30th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | The Side Bar | Austin TX

http://www.40watt.com/

SXSW CHRONICLES | MODERN SKIRTS

Posted: March 30th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Modern Skirts

40 Watt Party | Saturday March 20th | Vic Chesnutt Stage | Side Bar | Austin TX

http://www.myspace.com/modernskirts

SXSW CHRONICLES | J RODDY WALSTON and THE BUSINESS

Posted: March 30th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

J RODDY WALSTON AND THE BUSINESS

http://www.myspace.com/jroddy
http://www.jroddy.net/

Friday March 19th | La Zona Rosa | Austin TX

SXSW CHRONICALS | HOME TOWN HEROES

Posted: March 30th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

We Put The A in Austin | Friday March 19th | Light Bar | Austin TX

Hey, recognize these faces? Hometown heroes engaged in good times.

SXSW CHRONICLES | Ocha La Rocha

Posted: March 30th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Ocha La Rocha

http://www.myspace.com/ochalarocha

We Put The A in Austin | Friday March 19th | Light Bar | Austin TX

Weekend Round Up

Posted: March 29th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

⓸th Ward Heroes hosted The Working Class Heroes Opening Reception at Mint Gallery w/ Photography by Erik Dixon + Jessica Howell + Jessica Lewis + Lynn Taylor + Matthew Smith, DJ Set by Baron Saturday of Judi Chicago on Saturday March 27th. I am pleased to report it was a great success! Thanks to all of the participating artists and to everyone who came out! The show runs through April 10th just in case you missed it! So head on over to MINT GALLERY at 684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE, Unit B, Atlanta, 30312 to check it out! Our next gallery hours are Thursday April 1st from 2-9pm.

—-

A good time was had by all at Judi Chicago‘s in-store performance at Criminal Records on Sunday afternoon for their new album Bright Lights, Fun City. Check out Judi Chicago ignites Bright Lights, Fun City | Crib Notes » Atlanta Music Blog. Don’t miss Judi Chicago w/ Machines Are People Too, Kid Stuff, Chief Acid Officer on Fri., April 2 at Lenny’s (486 Decatur St).

—-

For those of you looking for an after-party, check out the pre-opening party at the new SOUND TABLE w/ THEM JEANS (LA) w/ AUSTINISNOROBOT, BLACK DOMINOES, JEFF MYERS. RSVP entry only! Click here!

SXSW CHRONICLES | PART I

Posted: March 29th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

Tues | 03.23.10
Back in The A at last. What a week it has been. Let me begin by saying that Austin is a beautiful city, and I have seen a lot of cities. Thank you, Austin. At moments, you reminded me a little of Boston in the springtime. You are both fun walkable cities, but oh Atlanta how I missed your familiar streets. It was around this time last week I arrived in Austin TX for SXSW. It was my first run. The experience exceeded my expectations and kicked my ass. I took notes, came up with some ideas for next year, and got to share some priceless moments with a lot of really good friends from right here at home that
I don’t get to see that often in the hustle of life. I got to see a few killer shows when I wasn’t working and a multitude more when I was. Oh, and I learned a lot! In the spirit of sharing:  If you think you love music, you should go. Just be sure to book ahead. Location is key. Carry a mobile phone battery charger, earplugs, notebook and toothbrush at all times. Keep it simple: Have one job to do, not five. Take along really good friends and the most comfortable shoes you own that you never ever want to look at again when it’s all over. And if possible, bring an outfit suitable for each of the seasons, because in our case we experienced them all! One of my favorite signs read: “Hipsters, scenesters, skinny jeansters, we don’t need your stinking badges!” Well done, Austin. Well done.

—

Artist to Watch Alert: BOSCO

Posted: March 12th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG

MAYER HAWTHORNE LIVE IN ATLANTA
also performing : BOSCO + NIKKI JEAN

The 40 Watt Party @ Side Bar (SXSW) SAT MAR 20 (12PM-8PM)

Posted: March 11th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

4th Ward Heroes is proud to be an official sponsor of The Fabulous 40 Watt’s SXSW Party this year!

A message from The 40 Watt:

Hey everyone! SXSW is fast approaching and with that we are happy to announce the details for the third annual 40 Watt Party during SXSW!

Our party will be held at the Side Bar, located at 602 E. 7th Street in Austin, TX, on Saturday, March 20th from 12PM- 8PM. Below is the line up in order of appearance, first to last. Set times TBD.

Vic Chesnutt Stage

Modern Skirts (Athens, GA)
James Husband (Athens, GA)
Warpaint (Los Angeles, CA)
J Roddy Walston & The Business (Baltimore MD)
Camper Van Beethoven (Santa Cruz, CA)
Dead Confederate (Athens, GA)
The Whigs (Athens, GA)
Ruby Isle (Minneapolis, MN / Athens, GA)

Jerry Fuchs Stage

I cannot tell you how excited I am to work with these folks! As many of you know, this is my first SXSW experience. I am both overjoyed and rather humbled to be working with The 40 Watt. Good things indeed! See you @SXSW! M!

Details:

• Event: 40 Watt Day Party in Austin (SXSW)
• Date: Saturday, March 20th 2010
• Time: 12:00pm
• City: 40 Watt Day Party in Austin (SXSW) in Austin
• Venue: Side Bar
• Address: 602 East 7th Street
• Venue phone: (512) 322-0697
• Country: US
• Admission: FREE / NO RSPV REQUIRED
• Age restrictions: 21+
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

We Put The A in Austin || SXSW 2010

Posted: March 1st, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Coming up this week! http://4thwardheroes.com/

Posted: February 7th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Big week Atlanta! Are you ready? Click on the titles for more info!

Wednesday 02/10/10 :::: The Constellations play 529 w/ Dope Sandwich in East Atlanta Village

Thursday 02/11/10 :::: The Judies play Star Community Bar w/ OBLiO & Deleted Scenes in L5P

Friday 02/12/10 :::: Judi Chicago play New Earth Music Hall w/ Dark Meat in Athens

Saturday 02/13/10 :::: Jedi Jess shows off her stuff at The Femme Fatale Art Show at WonderRoot

Saturday 02/13/10 :::: Mermaids play 529 w/ Balkans and Knaves Grave in East Atlanta Village

Hope to see you at the show! M!

young jedi jess birthday takeover this saturday

Posted: February 3rd, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Last year, as I am sure you all recall, my kid sister’s birthday takeover was a great success. She most appropriately drank pink things at a punk show, and the night ended dramatically with her falling out of a van. No worries for those of you that were not there, the van was nearly at a full stop when she fell out, she was NOT operating it, and truth be told she falls down a lot. I must admit, that it was not however as successful as her first (or was it her second?) 21st birthday party in Savannah when every bartender in town bought her a shot (yes, they were pink) which led to a 48 hour bed stay and countless excuses to our dear mother about why the kid could not be reached for comment. Needless to say, I am psyched for this Saturday. True to form, the kid (also known as “Young Jedi Jess,” but formerly referred to as “Fancy”) decided (unbeknownst to her big sister / booking agent and promoter extraordinaire) to throw herself a little soiree this Saturday Feb 6th at The Arizona Pub. Word on the street is that friend (and co-conspirator) DJ Black Dominoes will be there. Takeover 27! Come out heroes wherever you are!!! @GlowStickGirls will be there! She has something on the invite about losing her panties and is asking that everyone bring her a pair. Kids these days!

P.S., I am thoroughly unsatisfied with the poster she whipped up, so I have remade last year’s classic into something simply fantastic. Click on it to rsvp via facebook!

Oh Nine, Our Favorite Things

Posted: January 4th, 2010 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

I have taken a moment to reflect back on 2009. Wow. It. Has. Been. Quite. A. Year. A year ago 4th Ward Heroes did not even exist. I want to thank all of you who have lent your love and support not just to me personally but to the bands 4WH has worked with. You have made all the difference. Thanks for being there.

A few weeks ago I asked friends to jot down their favorite things to happen in the local music scene to post here on 4thWardHeroes.com. In one of the emails, I inadvertently hit cc instead of bcc. I am usually good about this, so please accept my sincerest apologies. I guess that’s what happens when you communicate all day long: everything gets blurry. The deadline has passed, but if you want to contribute just go ahead and send your list or leave it via a comment here. I have enjoyed the responses I have received thus far though. Fun stuff.

—

Dave Chait wrote:

4 Things I Loved About the Southeast Music Scene in 2009 with some spillover from other years throughout the decade…you got a problem with that, do you want to fight about it?

1. The Matt Kurz One – So sometime within the past few years, my fellow bearded weirdo friend from that went to college with me in upstate fucking New York ends up moving to Athens GA, quits drinking, shuts himself in, figures out how to play five instruments at the same time better than most of us know how to play one, and wrote some pop gems to let us know that he isn’t a complete gimmick. He played a lot in 2009 and even put out a record, the cover shot was taken in my old backyard in Grant Park.

Wanna hear it – FOR FREE!

http://www.quoteunquoterecords.com/qur025.htm (Look up The Matt Kurz One – Debt Sounds)

2. Bradford Cox - I think with the release of Logos this year, Bradford solidified himself as an indie rock god. Fuck, is that him playing with my hero Britt Daniel from Spoon? Is that Bradford playing fucking CORTEZ THE FUCKING KILLER WITH FUCKING JIM JARMUSCH! I HATE BRADFORD COX!!!!!!!!! Actually, that’s not true, I love Brad…here’s where it gets interesting…

Brad and I have known each other since we were about 14 years old. I remember going to see his first band Alternajerk (yes, that’s right, Alternajerk, seriously) at the Pterodactyl in Marietta. We would see each other at shows for the next ten years or so and even hung out and got high a couple of times. Somewhere in my house is an old Polaroid picture of me standing with Thurston Moore outside of the Roxy (I look like a little girl standing next to TM) and who photobombs the picture? you guessed it…Bradford. One thing I truly believed was that Bradford Cox Is never ever ever ever going to be able to write a decent fucking song. For the past couple of years or so I am proud to say that Bradford has shut my sorry ass up and proven me wrong. After hearing Walkabout from the new album I can honestly say that Bradford Cox is the best songwriter in Atlanta, and that Dave Chait is an idiot.

3. 529 – Sure, its smoky, sometimes way too packed, and they start super late on days when I just want to get to bed. But I can’t think of another venue in town that was more supportive of local artists and gave everyone a shot…okay, maybe the Star Bar.

4. Free Shows at the Star Bar - ever since Pop Death Squad landed the eventually over-hyped Black Kids for one of their Big Trouble in L5P shows, I knew that they were on to something good. This past year, when you’re broke, feeling down, having a public meltdown like I’m prone to do, you can always count on a cheap Thursday night at the star bar to lift your spirits.

Thanks to everyone who talked to me, bought me a drink, gave me a hug, or even put a band on a bill that I suggested, it made me feel special.

-Dave Chait – The Harold Group/Terrible Noise Trio/DC² = DJs

My favorite thing that happened for the Atlanta music scene in 2009 would be Malissa Sole.
I’m also pretty happy about The Judies getting signed to Slush Fund…

- Kahle Davis, Manager, The Judies

These are a few of my favorite things in no particular order:

Mike Wright – awesome recording engineer (he’s been around for a minute, but he’s done some especially awesome work this year). Multiple bands getting whats due to them (Zoroaster, Constellations getting record deals). Woody getting a promotion and Bean signing on as the local PBR Rep! and of course 4thwardheroes.

-Travis Thatcher

http://www.judichicago.com
http://www.myspace.com/judichicago
http://www.recompas.com
http://voiceofsaturn.blogspot.com

—

Thanks fellas!

High up on my list of favorite things local music related this year: Record Store Day 09 at Criminal Records. SO MUCH FUN. Thank u Criminal Records! Thank u PBR! RSD09 is in a very round about way the reason I met Nick Le May (also known as John-Boy) one of my favorite people in the universe. Thank u Nick for being so awesome. Oh, and I ended up in several videos which is proof I can have fun when I am not in charge! Bon Iver at Variety Playhouse this summer was AMAZING. Teaming up w/ Esperanza & Whynatte to pull off the impossible TWICE! Nice. Having scenes for a film shot at a show I produced, beyond cool (stressful at the time, but cool to watch now). Highest up on my list: the birth of 4th Ward Heroes! and my first official 4WH show on May 29, 2009 at 529 with The Constellations, The Judies and Prince Presto. Good times. Later, Sean Mc Pherson said, It’s too bad the best show of the Summer happened in the Spring. That might be the best compliment of the year. Ok, it’s between that and the time Kyle King called me the Harriet Tubman of Atlanta nightlife. I will forever be grateful to all of u who attended, to the artists who were willing to be the first on a 4WH bill, and to Chris Dragon at 529 for taking a chance on me. Cheers to that. Come to think of it, I have had the good fortune to witness first hand a lot of great moments in local music this year, because 4WH has afforded me the opportunity to meet some truly amazing, dedicated, and absurdly talented human beings all of whom shine light in my life when Georgia Power cuts off my electric. I made some great friends this year. Thank you again for the love and support. 2010 here we come! M!

Whynatte Presents Friday September 25th @ Star Bar : Vortex Park, The Meeks Family, Special Acoustic Set by Kyle Corbett. DJ Press Play in the lair all night. $5 Whynatte Bombs. Yummm.

Posted: September 22nd, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Tonight @ Top Flr: Dj mix from our friends Judi Chicago Juke Box

Posted: September 20th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Congratulations to Jeff & KC! Coolest couple ever officially. Excited to chill at Top Flr tonight. So looking forward to the closest thing I have had to a home cooked meal in a while and a smooth glass of vinho. Come hang and hear the new mix.

Top Flr 674 Myrtle St NE
Atlanta, GA 30308-1445

Download here: JudiChicago-BullsEye

Whynatte & Esperanza Present
Fun City with Judi Chicago
The Glenn Hotel 09.26.09

Posted: September 17th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Whynatte & Esperanza Present Fun City with Judi Chicago & Friends
The Glenn Hotel
Saturday September 26th 2009
110 Marietta Street Atlanta GA 30303
9 PM / FREE / 21 +

Throw on your shiniest spandex suit and saddle up your sphinx! Whynatte & Esperanza have joined forces with the best in show to bring to you Judi Chicago’s Fun City Single Release & Video Premier Party at The Glenn Hotel Saturday September 26th. This is a free ride to Fun City. Two floors of fun. Special live performances by Judi Chicago and Social Studies. DJ Sets by Jeff Myers, AustinIsNoRobot, Black Dominoes, and Noot d’ Noot.

—

This event made possible by the super cool collective efforts of 4th Ward Heroes/Alternative Apparel/ AUSTINISNOROBOT/Avatar Events Group/Black Dominoes/Concentrics Hospitality/Earth Shaking Music/Esperanza/Judi Chicago/Mixtape Atlanta/Noot d’ Noot/Social Studies/Thunderbox Studios/Top Flr/Whynatte/ Thank you!!!

Banshee style recon mission to The Glenn Hotel

Posted: September 13th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Photos from a recent banshee style recon mission to The Glenn Hotel with the one & only Miss Lauren Wells of Whynatte & Ben Coleman, James Joyce, and Travis Thatcher of Judi Chicago . Can u guess what we were up to? Special thanks to Pablo Henderson, King of Clubs, & everyone at The Glenn Hotel.

Whynatte & Esperanza Present
Fun City with Judi Chicago
The Glenn Hotel 09.26.09

Posted: September 13th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Whynatte & Esperanza Present Fun City with Judi Chicago & Friends
The Glenn Hotel
Saturday September 26th 2009
110 Marietta Street Atlanta GA 30303
9 PM / FREE / 21 +

Throw on your shiniest spandex suit and saddle up your sphinx! Whynatte & Esperanza have joined forces with the best in show to bring to you Judi Chicago’s Fun City Single Release & Video Premier Party at The Glenn Hotel Saturday September 26th. This is a free ride to Fun City. Two floors of fun. Special live performances by Judi Chicago and Social Studies. DJ Sets by Jeff Myers, AustinIsNoRobot, Black Dominoes, and Noot d’ Noot.

—

This event made possible by the super cool collective efforts of 4th Ward Heroes, Alternative Apparel, AUSTINISNOROBOT, Avatar Events Group, Black Dominoes, Earth Shaking Music, Esperanza, Judi Chicago, Mixtape Atlanta, Noot d’ Noot, Social Studies, Thunderbox Studios, Top Flr, and Whynatte!!!

—

HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical (Preview Saturday August 29th! @ 7 Stages)

Posted: August 25th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

I cannot remember the last time I went to the theater. As an undergraduate student I attended SUNY Purchase, a state university just outside of New York City with a phenomenal performing arts program, for 4 glorious years. Not a week went by that I did not visit the theater, usually several times a week. I cannot describe in words what kind of education it was to be surrounded by so many talented friends with so many wonderful projects. I too stepped on stage a time or two.

One off campus production I vividly recall was The Invisible Circus at the Union Square Theater. It was a glorious Spring evening shared with a loved one and his family. The costumes were breathtakingly beautiful. I got to share a brief exchange with Christopher Walken during intermission. It was fun to hear all the old men in wool caps refer to him as Chrissy. He lent me his zippo.

Talking with Travis and Warren the other day at Java Lords, I was reminded that there is something about the Fall that makes me want to go to the theater. I guess this could be attributed to all of those years of heading back to campus in anticipation of another year of stellar performances.

This year, I am in luck. The air is starting to cool and some very talented friends are busy at rehearsal preparing for HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical @ 7 Stages. I am super excited to go!

Preview: Saturday August 29th @ 7PM, only $7

7 Stages is 30! Come celebrate with us and get an awesome preview of the famous music from HAIR, PLUS the unveiling of our new archive installation featuring 30 years of 7 Stages history. Come in your own 60’s garb, or raid our closet! $7 Admission. Passport subscriptions available $120 – $150. 7 exclusive raffle items FREE food from Shaun’s, $2 beer/wine Far out 60’s bands & dance floor Actors mingling in character Retro photo lounge & costumes.

From 7 Stages:

HAIR: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical
By: James Rado/Gerome Ragni (book/lyrics), Galt MacDermot (music)
Directed by Del Hamilton
09/12/2009 – 10/10/2009

ABOUT THE PLAY
Join us as we open our 30th season with Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical, revitalized from its successful run in 1984 during 7 Stages’ 5th Season. With a score including some of the greatest songs in theater such as “Aquarius,” “Hair” and “Let the Sunshine In,” Hair illuminates the gripping cultural movement of the 60′s and 70′s that transformed a generation.

Featuring some of Atlanta’s most exciting musical talents, the on stage, live rock band consists of four seasoned professionals: Rob Thompson on guitar (The Little Five Points Rockstar Orchestra), Sam McPherson on guitar (Sam McPherson Trio, The Little Five Points Rockstar Orchestra), David Miksch on drums (The Judies) and Steve McPeeks on bass (Nine Inch Neals, Fiend without a Face). Additionally, the all star cast includes major talent from local bands as well with Naomi Lavender as Sheila (Old Soles Company, Arianna and Found Objects of Desire – a nearly all girl experimental group likened to the Velvet Underground) Chris Love as Hud (Quench) and Warren E. Ullom III as Berger (The Judies). Lead musician Rob Thompson adds “This production really puts the band in the middle of the action. We pulled some of Atlanta’s best local rock talent out of the night clubs and on to the 7 Stages Mainstage.”

The musical follows a tribe of inspired, teenagers who believe in the growing lifestyle of free-love and pacifism in a nation stifled by intolerance and violence during the Vietnam War. As they experiment with sexual identity, explore drugs, revolt against racism, and dodge the draft, these young people celebrate the uncontrollable ideas of hope and independence that continue to echo through today’s audiences. This world famous production will inaugurate the 7 Stages 30th season on Saturday, September 12th and will run through October 11th on the Mainstage.

PERFORMANCE TIMES
Friday, Sept 11 – 8pm (Preview – $10 all tickets)
Saturday, Sept 12 – 8pm (Opening Night Celebration!)
Sunday, Sept 13 – 5pm
Thursday, Sept 17 – 8pm
Friday, Sept 18 – 8pm
Saturday, Sept 19 – 8pm
Sunday, Sept 20 – 5pm
Wednesday, Sept 23 – 8pm
Thursday, Sept 24 – 10am Matinee
Thursday, Sept 24 – 8pm
Friday, Sept 25 – 8pm
Saturday, Sept 26 – 2pm
Saturday, Sept 26 – 8pm
Sunday, Sept 27 – 5pm
Wednesday, Sept 30 – 8pm
Thursday, Oct 1 – 8pm
Friday, Oct 2 – 8pm
Saturday, Oct 3 – 7pm
Saturday, Oct 3 – 10:30pm
Sunday, Oct 4 – 5pm
Wednesday, Oct 7 – 8pm
Thursday, Oct 8 – 8pm
Friday, Oct 9 – 8pm
Saturday, Oct 10 – 7pm
Saturday, Oct 10 – 10:30pm

7 Stages Theatre – Mainstage
1105 Euclid Avenue N.E.
Atlanta, GA – United States

For tickets to Saturday August 29th Preview Click Here!

For tickets 09/12/2009 – 10/10/2009 Click Here!

—

Warren Ullom has set up a facebook invite. Rsvp here:

So get your tickets, grab a loved one, a colleague, a friend, and I will see you there!

M!

Saturday August 22

Posted: August 21st, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Come out & support these creative little geniuses we all know & love!!!

MIXT

“celebrating the art of the mixtape”

When?

Saturday, August 22, 2009 from 8-11 Pm

Where?

@Sampson Street Lofts! That’s where.

684 John Wesley Dobbs Ave NE

Mint says:

Our 3rd annual mixtape exhibit featuring work from numerous Atlanta artists including Bean Summer, Jason Kofke, Kelly McKernan, Chris Hamer, GutterPOP, Jason Travis, Sergio Garzon, Travis Thatcher, and more.

Each artist will create a mixtape to be played alongside their artwork. Come and enjoy the music and have a drink. And meet someone attractive.

For more information email mint@mintgallery.org

See you there!!!

—

Saturday August 22 @ Star Community Bar

437 Moreland Ave., Atlanta, GA 30307

Estebano B’day Bash w/ Tous Les Jours, Ocha La Rocha, Abby GoGo, Electric Cycles, DJs and More… 9PM
Only $3 All Night

—

http://www.myspace.com/touslesjoursmusic

http://www.myspace.com/ochalarocha

http://www.myspace.com/abbygogorocks

http://www.myspace.com/theelectriccycles

Head over to Star Bar and wish Stephen a Happy Birthday!!!

big trouble is here, with a twist

Posted: August 20th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Those Pop Death Squad boys do not disappoint (and let’s be honest, they are a sexy bunch).

I hear we are all on the list the 3rd Thursday of Every Month at The Star Community Bar!

Big Trouble in Little Five Points is always a free show.

—

Will the Party Proletariat be there? Possibly.

Please twitter pic all sightings of @Whynatte1 immediately!

—

And on behalf of everyone involved with 4WH, I wish The Mayor of Ponce a Happy Birthday!

May you reign long & prosper!

And may you never again wake up at The Clermont Lounge only to find…

your cigarettes missing and Blondie in your bed.

If you see this man, kick him in the shin and/or make out with him and then buy him a shot of whiskey.

XOXO, M!

Whynatte Party To Go

Posted: August 18th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

when Asphalt Blaster played “the 529 club”

Posted: August 18th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Some photos from August 06th. Fun times!!!

—

And of course, there was some patio playtime by the party proletariat & pals.

You will see more of them soon! Wait for it: http://www.23secondsthemovie.com/

when The Ropes came to town

Posted: August 17th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Whynatte & Esperanza Present: Metromix 1 YR Anniversary Bash Saturday August 15th

Posted: August 12th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS Performing live:

The Constellations http://www.myspace.com/constellationsatl

B.o.B.

http://www.myspace.com/bobatl

DJ Black Dominoes

http://www.myspace.com/blackdominoes

And one more special guest… I’ll tell you about him soon:)

Get tickets here:

Judi Chicago, Noot d’Noot, and Other Words to Feed your Bored Mind.

Posted: August 10th, 2009 | Author: nicklemay | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Judi Chicago and Noot d’Noot 8/8/09

This night I was amongst the hipster republic of Little 5 Points pondering the nostalgic wonder of young experience. We are all adults here in the Starbar, at least by the amount of years we’ve traversed the Earth, stumbling through buildings and attempting to ascertain the beauty of some strange landscape and rambling into reckless experimentation with various….drugs.

I mostly found a fondly close comfort in the fact that we are all still children. Yes, we, and by we I mean the collective young “adults,” have not deviated much from the lost days of silent lunch, boy-girl-boy-girl seating arrangement, or nap-time. We do not fall far from the primitive tree of child-like desire. We might even catch ourselves crying from a scrape on the knee after falling from that tree.

The important thing for us now is to capture that small window of vivid happiness. It is important to not analyze or intellectualize those negative occurrences we see in the great hill of life. Towards the bottom of that hill is a pit of fire and lava and all the women (or men) you pissed off with your genitals. Don’t look at it though. Just embrace it as an experience worth having, because they’re all worth having.

This leading to a concert review. I promise. I’m almost completely positive that maybe it will turn out to be probable.

I only thought all of this because I remember the first time I fell in love with Atlanta. I walked through the Krog Street tunnel, slightly inebriated and missing clothes that would’ve covered my lovelies. It was easy to feel love after enormous amounts of alcohol.

I fell in love with Judi Chicago’s music in a similar way, however, this particular time I was wearing my clothes…most of the time. “Mad Ape” came on and this youthful energy exploded during the chorus. It was as if we had been holding back for so long. Maybe those silent lunches and boy-girl seating and countless rules thrust on our tiny backs had finally been lifted. And it was lifting, or liberating, or any other ridiculous human emotion that one associates with being happy.

Later that night, I was viciously accosted by a strange little girl. She choked me. She put some kitten-like scars on either side of my neck. It was an aggressive cat scratch. A little girl coming at me like whirlwind of teeth and fingernails and absolute insanity manifested from some previous childhood issue. I preceded to put her in a deserved head lock. This little black haired girl is the silent partner of a posh midtown eatery or so my memory tells me.

Afterwards, I made this delicious grilled cheese sandwich with jalapeños. I recommend it. Really, come to my house. This is all I do. I get bored and make sandwiches. It helps me keep my youth while still pretending to have responsibility.

I think I shit my pants later on that fine day, though. I’m good about twice a year for that.

On a more conservative note…..

5 Straitlaced Things to do on a Monday in Atlanta:

1. Find shrooms. Go to the park. Stare at clouds.Then go to www.iprelay.com and phone your friends…seriously. Possibly the most entertaining thing to do with your time. Ever.

2. Find more shrooms. Take off work. Paint your walls. Make a Diet Coke Bomb with Mentos.

3. Find shrooms. Go to Java Lords. Get 14  $1 dollar PBRs. Try to remember the night.

4. Find shrooms. Call an old friend. Go break shit at a junkyard.

5. Stop doing mushrooms and writing inane lists.

P.S. Toy Story 2 was O.K.

Here’s a joke to tell your friends when you’re afraid they hate you for not being funny:

What did Adam say when Eve jumped into the river at the Garden of Eden?

(The stupid freaking answer): “Son-of-a-labia-licker! Now all the fish are gonna smell like that…

Kind of cool.

Posted: August 10th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

This may come as a shock, but truth be told, Luis & I have worked together behind the scenes for quite some time. We work the middle now and again. We get stealth. I have come to call Luis many things, some explicit, some not. But most lovingly I refer to him as my mentor. What does that mean you ask? Basically, he’s the man. He’s the man I call when I hit the sides, need a hug, and/or a drink.

Before I worked for HaveYouHeard.net as the Live Sessions Coordinator, before Team Luis (the name, not the man), and what seems like an effing lifetime before I founded 4WH, I attended a Modern Skirts show at Smith’s Olde Bar with a couple of friends, post trainwreck relationship during my sojourn to the other side of the world. My friend Jorge got silly drunk. Our group decided to leave and take him home after the show ended. I walked out with them, but just as I was about to get in the car, I surveyed the situation and decided I was not quite ready to leave after all. I asked if it would be cool with them if I went back in, and they cheered me on as good friends do. I have to admit, it was the first time I was at a bar, never mind a show, alone in the A. I was still rather new to the dirty.

I slid up to the bar, a little slippery myself. Up came a blazing head of hair.

Hoffman: “Wanna do a shot?”

Me: “Why, yes. Yes. I. do.”

The rest is history.

We drank tequila. We talked. We laughed. He introduced me to a fine young chap named Phillip. We drank more tequila. We laughed a lot more. Anyway, I fell in love with the man in the vest, every inch of the fro, the curve of his grin, and those sparkling sea colored eyes. It took him a couple of years to introduce me to Luis, hmmm, but eventually he did, and I fell in love with him too. He bought me a PBR, but had me at hello.

We have shared a drink or two. Last weekend, we shared the remaining drops of latte in a crushed Whynatte can on the patio of 529. We even kissed once, although he says it did not count, whatever that means. But this, my lovers, is our first ever official show together as presenters. On August 11, 2009, 4WH & Team Luis Present: How I Became The Bomb, Young Orchids, Sealions, and DJ Black Dominoes @ 529.

I cannot tell you how much it has meant to me to see those Pop Death Squad boys in the crowd as I announce bands at 4WH shows or to get a text from one of them telling me “great show” after the night has ended. I look forward to this show with Team Luis, not just because it is our first official show together as presenters, but because it means I will have the best in the business at my side.

I hope that everyone will come out and celebrate what we can accomplish when we support each other. If we want to make a contribution to the culture of Atlanta, to Atlanta’s music scene, we need to work together, just like the bands do. They share a stage, a drum kit, a bill. We share a club, a sponsor, a night. It’s all the same. It’s all about working together for the greater good.

If you think it’s easy being a girl in this scene, think again. Not so much. I have literally fallen apart after tearing apart boys twice my size in a parking lot. The other night I had some drunk guy, who has worked one of the largest music festivals in Atlanta since its inception, pushing me in the chest demanding I answer an incoherent question. All in a night’s work.  But fellas like Luis give me hope for the rest of the jackals out there. He is a gentleman, a bad ass promoter, a member of the nice mafia, and a friend.

I kind of revel in the idea that is it difficult to tell which shows are actually 4th Ward Heroes shows, because this show coming up is only our 6th! Bet you didn’t know that. I revel in this observation, because despite the downsides (Yes, I do realize there are downsides) it means that I, and to a greater extent we, are fulfilling the mission of 4th Ward Heroes. We are supporting the local music scene and the artists who make the music. This Tuesday, I get to stand at the side of someone who exemplifies this idea. Not in front of, not behind, but at his side. Kind of cool.

Much love, M!

Today The Moon Tomorrow the Sun. With Who? The Ropes. That’s Who.

Posted: August 7th, 2009 | Author: nicklemay | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

The Show

Ah… the 529…a gaggle of gathering hipsters wasting their money and brain cells. What is it about music that helps us socialize as young humans? The answer doesn’t really matter, though. The answer is too obvious. And if you’re confused by that, then…well I probably haven’t met you.

This night was like others. The moon was out. The polluted canvas of the Atlanta sky still enveloped the flicker of a star. That might be cancerous. This night was unlike any other in that there were bands playing that were worth a listen.

The Ropes came from New York to dazzle drunkards with a Lo-Fi multi electronic sound.

Today the Moon Tomorrow the Sun: a band that should already be famous.

And I’ve seen them play on many an occasion throughout the past six months. But this occasion I felt as though it was like being with a faraway, but fond lover. Sometimes you’re forced to make love to them, but there are those moments. There are those weird moments where it all seems to fit, and the lighting is skating across the spectrum, and she makes the right move, and she makes the right sound and you can’t help but flop on your back to imbibe such an unpredictable, ancillary beauty. Even so, you still sort of hate her for it.

In short, they deserve the record deal that’s coming to them. I didn’t tell you that.

When the Going Gets Weird, the Weird go to Starbar

So since the nights tend to meld together in such a mellow fashion in this town, I’m reminded of a later show at the Starbar. A heavy electronic show played by the Octopus Project.

The next most astute observation overheard since the one-eyed hobo lady was Derek Lyn Plastic: “this band sucks.”

For the first time in a couple of moons, I stood on my own ground. I kept my opinion wide open, like the vaginal hole of a Clermont Lounge beauty, tempting you into a hallway of love. I disagreed with Derek Lyn Plastic that night.  I sat pensive afterwards, enjoying my new favorite band…Octopus Project.

I wondered if anyone else drew a thought from their mind while tirelessly dancing, or drinking, or just hoping they would get laid again in some sort of depraved stupor.

Mostly, though, I just forgot about what people cared for, what lies they told to their friends, what music they could jump up from their normal life to see, what they actually did with their boogers, or what lady might meander my way to satisfy my own depraved desires while I sit in an inebriated torpor on my ridiculous bed.

It turned out that I just drove home and smiled a bit. Just a little bit. Just long enough to stop thinking. Just long enough to realize that eventually the inevitability of conscious thought would come upon me again in it’s ironic wonder. Smiled just long enough to sleep.

And then I woke up to a lady sprawled across the bed next to me.

The Judies – 529 July 3rd, 2009

Posted: July 27th, 2009 | Author: nicklemay | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

A Sweaty Sring of Thought.

I stumbled to the keyboard this evening. I’m attempting to weld together the weird memories of this July 3rd night. When a plethora of pieces do not fall together, I doubt the significance of my consistent inebriation. Almost as consistent as The Judies ability to portray their talent. So here I go.

The Howlies played first. They played well.

Dancing…Sweat….Shirtless…Few thoughts about anything at all. Eviction from formal thought…Or any thought.

So after a flash of tasty images (all I could remember), I road towards elation in the cool twilight. With a some band mates, of course.

I steered my car wheel towards a coffee shop that Gatsby would have owned. That is, if Gatsby had weird sex parties above the stage. Or if drug use were violently apparent. Or if he had existed in this 21st century cultural haze at all. Illegal things happened and this Nick is not afraid to narrate such stringent subjects.

We then continued to my apartment complex. The absolute elation of the night was not decimated by the surreptitious creep of the sun over the flat of the horizon, but by a greasy greeting from a chunk of cheesy ground beef that’s churning your stomach. There’s always time to make one more bad decision, I guess.

So the day was starting. We came together because of music and left tired. We simply converged on a planet as humans, and we attempted to make our residence here slightly more tolerable. So as I sit here gently pulling a cigarette from my face, I ponder possible meanings in nights like this. And if you were in front of me, you would see my realization.

The realization that day had come. The realization that I wasn’t wearing pants. The realization that everyone had left to their respective partners, floors, or in some cases, a bed. I awoke from that trance and thought it better to lay down my naked body in bed.

The National – Tabernacle 5.27.09

Posted: July 27th, 2009 | Author: nicklemay | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

The National…Delayed

Here is a small treat of an article. It was posted long overdue by Atlanta Guardian and you can find it at this link: http://atlantaguardian.com/the-national-tabernacle-52709/. I have to say that in case of a copywright violation. People could get angered if you post your work elsewhere without proper citation…But it deserves a place here. It deserved a more timely publish date. It deserves mild appreciation at least…

So simply soak it up. The writing is as enjoyable to read as it was for me to experience. It was the goal for me and will be in the future.

Enjoy.

“The ornate wonder of the Tabernacle is enough to leave the most simple-minded man breathless. Walking in might feel like attending a symphony performed by the precious Queen’s orchestra if there weren’t such a gaggle of grimy kids huddling and anxious to listen.

We all came to listen to a band that is strikingly sophisticated and effortlessly talented.

That band is known as The National, whose recent success has earned them a spot at this frustratingly elegant venue. After proclaiming my press status and gathering my pass, I wandered upstairs trying not to look smug.

This would be the first and probably only time I arrived at the exact moment that Matt and his seven piece band prepared to wow the crowd.  And, as a whole, wow us they did.

They opened with a not-so-popular song that I was not immediately familiar with–not that I could concentrate.  Focus left me when I stepped into the photographer section in front of the stage.

I was watching the particularly odd behavior of the other photographers who scurried around hunched over like velociraptors who might feast on anyone who got in the way of a good shot. They let me take pictures for “Mistaken for Strangers” and “Brainy” which are both songs that were performed with a professional punch that gave way to the impression that everyone on stage was a solidly talented musician.

Matt, the lead singer, seemed to embrace the microphone as though he were softly kissing a far away lover that he had reconciled with in front of a few hundred people.  And the silvery stage lights only made him look all the more forlorn.

It was one of those moments in which your eyes glaze over. You forget silly problems, lost lovers or even lost friends. You embed yourself into a vicarious, but fleeting release through the sound of this singer’s life.  You could read into such a moment deeply, but it’s as simple as a smile, it’s happy, and The National makes it happen.  Then you wake up in between. And there’s a large man yelling at you about something inane, like where you’re standing.

At one point, Matt addressed a comment from a loud crowd member proclaiming his love for Matt. He responded by mocking the ridiculous judgments of Pitchfork Media: “You’re great too. I’d give it an 8.3” (boos ensue) “Alright a 9.0.”

Though I was entranced with having such a close encounter with the music after “Brainy” was performed, I still glanced over to notice a T-Rex of a bouncer tread down the aisle.  We scampered out of this special place and returned to the herd out of fear from the strict repercussions of Tabernacle policy.  So I paced the floor of the venue, ferociously fumbling over feet to find a drink while shooting glances at the stage during “Slow Show”. I settled down to listen more intently, elated by the fact that I had won a free drink after delving into a broken conversation with a gay bartender.  The band played most of their set from “Boxer”, but still pulled earlier songs from “Alligator” first performed modestly. That was about to change.

I decided to strike up a candid conversation with a bouncer.  His name was Cory and he apparently “…enjoyed the instrumentation, but not the arrangements.” I secretly disagreed with him, but confirmed his observation vocally for a reason that would be ultimately useful.  I rambled back to the bar with whiskey brain and beer in hand to indulge in the last song which was the favored “Fake Empire”.

The happy herd of the crowd banged their heads and mouthed the words, as was the case for most of the set. What ensued after was a roaring applause to bring The National back on stage for the longest encore performance I’ve seen in a very long time. The most notable song performed, “Squalor Victoria”, was sublime.  The drummer could have held the opening beat for hours and the lead guitarist, Aaron, caressed the strings of his guitar with a violin bow.

It was as if Matt had been bottling his energy throughout the first set.  He was a pot of emotions that had been slowly brought to a boil and for me, everything came together when he began screaming the chorus: “..squalor victoria, squalor victoria.” They then performed in that boiling energy with a wonderful rendition of “Ada” and “Abel” which was performed in a rambunctious style.  At that point I knew things had picked up just when they were about to end.

The night seemed to fly around in an elegant whirlwind and ended on the same note. The room emptied out and Matt stayed around to talk with some mingling fans. I talked to him shortly about New York and music.  The time had come to head backstage and the aforementioned friendly Cory waved me along even though my badge had “After Show” blocked out with a Sharpie.  And it was a real backstage.  The rooms were set up like a miniature Ritz-Carlton.

Everyone socialized in the pool room, but not over a glass bowl of cocaine or personal bottles of Jack Daniels. We drank a few Coronas accompanied with chips and salsa. We talked about classical music and the beauty of the venue. We played pool.

I held a long conversation about Kurt Vonnegut with one member of the band.  Another of the band members described me as “Leonardo Dicaprio in ‘Catch Me if You Can.’” I responded by informing them who my usual look-a-like is: Keira Knightley. That encouraged some laughs, since I’m somewhat of an androgynous-looking boy.

It was hard to pinpoint who was in the band since they were all infinitely modest. You could pass by Bryce, the lead guitarist, and not even know his talent. For me, and I imagine for most people reading, it is inexplicably delightful to know that the musicians we idolize are immediately approachable and as personable as a friend at the bar. You could have a good conversation with any of the band members and leave it as just that.  And I did.  So it goes.”

4TH WARD HEROES PRESENTS: OUR FIRST BROKE + ELECTRO PARTY WITH TODAY THE MOON TOMORROW THE SUN + THE ROPES + GUEST BEATS BY DJ BLACK DOMINOES + JUDI CHICAGO JUKEBOX // MONDAY AUGUST 3rd // 529 EAV

Posted: July 25th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Put on your dancing shoes and your tastiest lip gloss and head on over to 529 on MONDAY AUGUST 3rd for our 1st BROKE + ELECTRO INDIE ROCK DANCE PARTY with TTMTTS + THE ROPES + GUEST BEATS BY: DJ BLACK DOMINOES + JUDI CHICAGO JUKEBOX @ 529 Flat Shoals Ave in East Atlanta Village presented by 4th Ward Heroes + hosted by Dude City Productions. $5, yeah, $5! The first 5 people 2 arrive at 9 get in free. This way if u are broker than a needle without a record, you still have a shot at getting in. It’s only $5 after that kids, but remember that the artists work directly off the door so, your money is well spent no matter how you may have earned it.

Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun will headline this show. Visit Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun @ http://www.myspace.com/todaythemoontomorrowthesun

With critical praise, TTMTTS’s performance has been described as filled with fervor and force. Lauren Gibson on Vocals, Micah Silverman on Bass, Cregg Gibson on Guitar, and Jeremy Cole on Drums, this collective emerged from Atlanta’s distinctive heart and is gaining national attention. The intimate room and stellar sound system at 529 will showcase their super talents and put you up close and personal. They’re going somewhere fast.

The Ropes are coming! Visit them @ http://www.myspace.com/theropes or http://theropesonline.com

The Ropes are opening. So be sure get there for doors at 9! Remember: the first 5 people 2 arrive at 9 get in free. The Ropes are a powerful NYC based duo self described as “We are The Ropes. We want to fight you.” Enough said really, but I will tell you a little more about them just in case you are not feeling stealth.

Vocalist/bassist Sharon Shy (yes, that is her real name) and multi-instrumentalist Toppy (he has a penchant for playing drums with his guitar hanging around his neck) are notorious for their engaging lyrics and phenomenal live performance. What they do is brilliant and intensely intoxicating. They have toured extensively throughout the US and UK, opening for acts such as The Used, Innerpartysystem, and The Matches, among others. I am so thrilled they are coming to Atlanta, if this was not a 4th Ward Heroes show I would take the night off, grab my boy du jour and a flask of bourbon, and stand in line indefinitely to see them. It has been said that if you like The Knife or The Chromatics, you will love The Ropes. In my case, this is absolutely true. And as a little incentive, although I am not quite sure how long this is going to last, according to http://twitter.com/theropes, the Ropes are offering a Free Album Download at http://www.theropesonline.com/store/ I hit that link up today and it worked like a charm. Oh happy day!!! Acquaint yourself. For Free.

Kellen Crosby (a.k.a. DJ Black Dominoes) + Ben Coleman & Travis Thatcher (a.k.a. Judi Chicago Jukebox) join forces to deliver a dance party detail designed to delight your derriere, so come out and dance wherever you are. Visit Kellen and send him photos of yourself rocking out to one of his remixes @ http://www.myspace.com/blackdominoes Stalk those Judi Chicago lads over @ http://www.myspace.com/judichicago

On behalf of everyone involved in this show, and trust me it takes a tribe, we hope to see you there!
Much love,
M!
—
It is worth mentioning that with all of the grass root collectives in the A making leaps and bounds in the local music scene, a great way to get on the list is to contribute someway to making a show happen, so if you are a photographer, designer, vagabond of all trades, and you love local music and want to help the cause perhaps you should think about a volunteership with one of us or perhaps a band you know and love. 4th Ward Heroes would not exist if it were not for this concept and the support we have received by our tribe. We believe in the hero in you.

Behind the scenes shots. Yes We Corn 2009!

Posted: July 6th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Consider this your insider’s view to Corndogorama 2009! We hope everyone had a fantastic time. It was worth the sweat & there were no tears. Big thanks to our hero, the super talented, John Goetzinger for capturing so many of the amazing performances on film. John has a lot of experience shooting musicians in their natural habitat. And it shows! You can check out his flickr page here: http://flickr.com/photos/fuckyouninja/ or visit his blog here: http://atlantagardener.blogspot.com/ Stalk him on the facebooks here: http://www.facebook.com/people/John-Goetzinger/577807501

When I was not running around like a banshee, I had time to take a few point & shoots mostly backstage. The quality is not so good, but the moments are priceless. Enjoy! 

Corndogorama Thanks!

Posted: July 5th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Big ups!!!

Our love, adoration, and thanks to our heroes: Dave Chait! Aliya Carnes! Chris Gonzolez! Stephanie Howard! Travis Thatcher! Nick LeMay! Jon Price! John Goetzinger! Kellen Crosby! Jess Jones! You guys are for reals the best of friends. Damn you worked it. Dave, Aliya, Chris, Stephanie and Travis especially battled some seriously dangerous heat on Day I to look after the bands that played the festival this year. Ok, we almost lost Travis a few times. He & Meriam had been up all night the night before making us t-shirts, which Warren ended up freely distributing that evening. But Travis stuck it out even though he was scheduled to play the Official After Party @ 529 that night! (Killed it by the way! More fun than I thought I had in me! Seriously!) And if that was not enough, Mr. Thatcher showed up the next day with breakfast tacos for the troops! What a lovely human being. Chris ended up with sunstroke, but braved through Day I and is now on vacay in Sunny Philadelphia. All in a day’s work for those cats. They rock. You are all what 4th Ward Heroes is all about. And with Adam broke down somewhere between there and here with Abby Go Go, whom I lovingly referred to as “those abby boys” all weekend, I could NOT have held it down on Day I without you! So, thank you! – thank you! – thank you! I am working on a EAV 2$ margarita reunion night. To all of our friends who played their hearts out, thanks for taking the leap this year, and trusting that we would have your back. You guys rocked it. To Whynatte, who supplied the bands with a bathtub of free latte, what can we say? When we called, you delivered! You always do. You are heroes too. In case you have not heard, ha! I crack myself up, Whynatte is a jumpstart lattte company made up of some rad local boys who can and will change the way we do things round here. We love working with you. Good things. M!

Amidst Corny Chaos — Corndogorama 2009

Posted: July 2nd, 2009 | Author: nicklemay | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

The Judies at Athfest

The clocked says 8 a.m. when Warren, the lead singer from the Judies, positioned my 1000 feet per second air rifle to my ear and squeezed the trigger. It was a god forsaken time for a 21 year old to wake up wild eyed with ringing ear drums. With a vile cackle I could overhear: “Get up…get up sound-check at 11.”

I was following Warren and The Judies to the mistakenly revered Athfest in the sweaty, drunken college playground that is Athens, Georgia. The drive that followed brought me to a place called Little Kings, a hipsters dream bar filled with antique furniture and old ironic photos.

I stood outside as The Judies drummer, Dave, answers a stranger who wonders what sound his band brings: “It’s sort of like a gay polka band…imagine if The Beatles covered gay polka bands.” Now remember that this implies that there are heterosexual polka bands.

But when The Judies went on stage shortly after you would hear The Beatles pop arrangements with David Bowie-esque vocals. It was the kind of music that would get stuck in your head in the best way possible. If it wasn’t 1 p.m. in a town where no one slips from their sheets until 2, it would have been appreciated by a larger crowd. The smaller crowd he showed themselves early in the festival seemed to enjoy it intensely, for good reason.

They ended after 4 songs and as I walk behind stage I drag the drummer over to the cooler filled with PBR. He was packing up his symbol case as I direct him to shove what came to be 9 or so beers into the bag. Those who booked the show had no idea two budding alcoholics would show themselves. A small price for Little Kings to pay for being situated in Athens.

And so we made for the drive back in a sedan with a broken A/C that smelled like a few baby pigs were shot inside of it a few weeks beforehand. The 5 of us must have shared more sweat than we wanted to. The rest of the tired day that ensued was marked in my memory as a typical fun-filled festival at Corndogorama.

Corndogorama Day 1

I arrived back in Atlanta. I took a quick cold shower. There was a intense moment of anticipation as I arrived to Corndogorama. I just so happened to come right as a band come on that I had never hear of before. They are called Whores. If you don’t like heavy metal, you’ll definitely feel delight in the performance of their drummer who proved his stage presence with drumstick tricks and middle fingers directed towards the crowd.

Next up was dropsonic. They played a traditional rock set with an extremely accomplished drummer. I remember reading a Flagpole article stating that Black Lips are the last “real” rock back. Dropsonic (among others at Corndogorama) dispelled this inane summation of modern music.

We then had Noot d’Noot, the Howlies, The Judies (again) and the Modern Skirts run their way on stage to attempt to wow the crowd. Their attempts proved more than correct. The last four bands played incredibly solid sets. Noot d’Noot got the crowd going with their soul sister singers and everything the followed only amplified the energy of the already energized.

The Modern Skirts are officially the most solid live band I’ve ever seen to date. I even had a blond drunkard of a floozy of a girl tore me shirt off and threw it on stage. The lead singer of the Skirts wear it like a headdress in front of me a two shirtless Judies band members.

The after party at 529 made every tired dance in drunken heat worth it, sponsored by the party proletariats at Whynatte. Judi Chicago played 529 like no one else has seen. Their synth-based ultra dance rock kept every tired eyed music lover moving in the afterglow. And once again, they secretly stole a show in an intimate enclave. We might have traded more sweat then we wanted to, but no one cared. I didn’t.

Corndogorama Day 2

When it’s a Sunday and you wake up with a crippling hangover headache you don’t want to do much except watch cartoons and drink copious amounts of water. I, however, went to Corndogorama. It wasn’t Saturday Corndogarama, but it was still worth delving into every instance of musical marvel of that is the Atlanta local scene.

I would just like to give a strong sincere shout out to certain bands for their performance. This Piano Plays Itself who permeated the small field with their psychedelic hallway rock best appreciated on mushrooms. Today the Moon, Tomorrow the Sun who always annihilate a crowd with a solid rock-synth performance.

The Soulphonics and Ruby Velle for reminding me of the beauty of funk and the instrumentation that comes with it. Ruby Velle couldn’t have been a better candidate to cover James Brown. Abby Go-Go combined the best parts of rock and lyricism to damage my ear drums in the best way possible. Judi Chicago played again in front of a smaller crowd, and even though it was strange in contrast to such an intense group at 529, they still charmed me with their 8-bit sound accompanied by a multi-instrumentalist attitude that never fails.

And of course, the headliner. Dead Confederate creates a Nirvana sound that comes out more developed. Ending their set with a cover of Sonic Youth’s “The Diamond Sea” was more than fitting.

Having been a person who had an inkling of doubt towards the quality of Atlanta bands, Corndogarama hosted bands that shattered any supercilious presumption that had fell on my brain in the past. I give a 4th Ward Heroes fedora-hats-off to everyone that played and attended. Thank you Whynatte for making me coherent enough to be able to remember this. Your latte infused energy drinks exercised my wild young brain more than you’ll know.

Busy week for 4th Ward Heroes!

Posted: June 20th, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

Come hang with 4th Ward Heroes this Weekend!!!

Sat Jun 27 & Sun Jun 28

CORNDOGORAMA MUSIC FESTIVAL

Welcome back to The Carnival! Corndogorama returns outdoors to East Atlanta Village!!! AND IT IS ALL AGES!!!

Saturday June 27th & Sunday June 28th (12 PM – 11 PM) @ 470 Flat Shoals Avenue

Outdoors, oh you’ll see it! In the heart of the East Atlanta Village!!!

http://www.corndogorama.com/eventinfo.html

See all of your favorite bands!!!

Check out our friends on Saturday: Modern Skirts, Howlies, The Judies, Noot d’ Noot, The Empties, Sealions, Ocha La Rocha, Electric Cycles, The Goldest… and MORE!!! And be sure to return to check out these friends on Sunday: Dead Confederate, Abby go-go, Judi Chicago, Cadillac Jones, Batata Doce, Soulphonics & Ruby Velle, A fight to the death, today the moon, tomorrow the sun, and MORE!!! Go to http://www.corndogorama.com/eventinfo.html to see the full line-up!

Come by the 4th Ward Heroes State (Stage 2) and say hello to our volunteers! Give Adam Trimble a big sweaty kiss! Remember to stay hydrated! Thanks to all of those who volunteered to work as Production Assistants!!! You guys rock! There are a few more slots open, so if you think You Can Corn and you are ready to work, hit me up at Malissa@4thWardHeroes.com If you are a photographer or journalist interested in covering the show, we really need coverage of the 4th Ward Heroes stage and the bands we have performing at future events! Resident Hero Photographer Matthew Smith is in Brazil. So hit us up at Contact@4thWardHeroes.com and we will make it happen!

The party never ends on Saturday Jun 27th!!!

THE OFFICIAL CORNDOGORAMA AFTER PARTY!!!

Don’t forget after day one Saturday June 27th of the festival, to take that little wristband and walk down to 529 Flat Shoals Ave. for the after-party of the century! Free with wristband! Come one, come all! http://www.529atl.com/

THE OFFICIAL CORNDOGORAMA AFTER PARTY

Judi Chicago Presents: DANCING VI

“Best live show in the universe”

Sponsored by WHYNATTE

529 @529 Flat Shoals Ave., East ATL, 30316

Doors 10PM/21+/Free with wristband

4th WARD HEROES WILL SEE YOU THERE!!!

If by chance EAV is not your thing, no worries there, you are taken care of. The cool cats at Esperanza (http://www.esperanza-atl.com/) and Whynatte (http://www.whynatte.com/) have put together a summer rooftop party at Six Feet under Westside (www.sixfeetunderatlanta.com) on Saturday June 27th. This is the launch of this summer’s Roof Top Jump Off Series. Let the debauchery begin. Our friend, the talented, and oh so easy on the eyes, Dj Black Dominoes (http://www.myspace.com/blackdominoes) will be your guide! Raise your hands!!! Wish Andy a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Order a Whynatte Slim Mint! Deeelicious;)

4th WARD HEROES PRESENTS:
THE JUDIES, BOOK OF COLORS, THE HARLEQUINS, DJ BRANDON STATIC
THURSDAY JULY 2nd 2009
529, EAST ATLANTA VILLAGE

Posted: June 2nd, 2009 | Author: 4th Ward Heroes | Filed under: 4TH WARD HEROES, BLOG, EVENTS

The Judies, Book of Colors, The Harlequins, DJ Brandon Static, Thursday July 2nd 2009 at 529 Flat Shoals Ave in East Atlanta Village. 21+ Doors: 9 PM. Admission $7

The Judies
Book of Colors
The Harlequins