January 2012 Cover by Debbie Leighton

Happy New Year! I hope ya’ll survived the holidays just fine – I’m writing a lot this here le Beat on New Year’s Day and judging by your Facebook posts, you might have done a little celebrating last night. By the time you read this, I hope ya’ll have recovered.

It’s January, which means I get to tell you about how old I am. Well, more specifically, how old the magazine is 14. It was 14 years ago this month I (along with Sean Spain and Amy Marchegiani) started working on What’s Up! (our debut issue came out in March, which is the official birthday). To put it into perspective 9/11 hadn’t happened, George Bush hadn’t happened, Sarah Jerns was 10, a current college freshman would’ve been four and someone just now turning 21 would’ve been in the second grade. Also, we barely used email and the web was just getting really into the swing of things. Seriously. My friends, that was a damn long time ago! Luckily, the mag gets better with age, or so we’d like to believe. I can’t imagine I’ve been able to cover music in an amazing town for 14 years I remember in high school reading The Rocket out of Seattle (old, awesome music mag), thinking about how cool it’d be to do what they do. That, my friends, makes me a lucky, lucky man.

In the third year of working on the magazine, a friend pitched the idea of doing an awards show. Seemed like a good time, so we made up some ballots and spread them around town with jars and boxes at selected locations (yes, seriously, it used to be paper and jars that the ballots were stuffed in). Now, 11 years later, our whole operation is digital and we get about eight times as many votes (over 1,500 so far this year!). The show, the bands, the whole thing has turned bigger and cooler than I could’ve imagined. This year we’re going to hold the pre-awards show at the Jinx space on Friday, Jan. 27 with Rookery, Triceracorn, Learning Team and Bowlcut. They’ll get everyone warmed up for 11th Annual Awards Show on Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Wild Buffalo, with sets by So Adult, Falling Up Stairs, Lamppost Revival, No-Fi Soul Rebellion, Sugar Sugar Sugar, The Bad Tenants, and IG88 plus DJ Postal, Poops and the Dirty Bird Cabaret all doing their thing. It’ll be a hell of a night, all for only $6 at the door. The show starts at 9 p.m. Thanks to Mark Heimer (No-Fi Soul Rebellion) for the poster design and Joe Olmstead for the printing. Good, good stuff. See you at the show!

This issue, we have a story on Fanny Alger, a local band that’s been kicking around for a while and includes a couple music scene vets, one of whom is Henry Szankiewicz. Normally I don’t talk in le beat about a story in the following pages, but this one was special and means more to me than most stories. Ya see, Henry, unbeknownst to him, was a huge, HUGE influence on me back in the day – and when I say back in the day, I mean 1992 or so. I didn’t know Henry back then, but I knew of him the dude was doing exactly what I wanted at the time. He was involved in the scene, very involved Henry was in a great band called Medelicious (top five all time Bellingham bands), he booked shows (and if I remember correctly, ran sound) at the Up and Up, plus he also put out records. For me, an awkward kid whose only desire was to be involved in a music scene, Henry was someone I looked up to and respected. I wanted to be involved in the scene as well and do things that mattered. Over the next few years, I became more involved in local music. It took awhile, but eventually I got to where I wanted to be putting on shows, being in bands (not particularly good ones) and starting the magazine. Now, nearly 20 years on, I’m still getting to do what I always wanted to do and, frankly, what I love doing. In some way, I have Henry to thank for it.

ON THE RECORD

Peadar McMahon, Bellingham’s favorite Irish musician, has been recording his latest work, which is tentatively planned for a March release. He’s been in the studio with Paul Turpin a couple of times with more sessions planned. You can check out his releases on his Facebook page.

I’ve been told by Gabe Taylor that the FFA disc is just awaiting artwork. Finally, after a couple of years, it will be UNLEASHED TO THE MASSES! When yer talking about metal, you need to use all caps.

Cower have been recording new songs. No word on a release, but them in the studio sounds damn good to me.

Kit Nelson has also been working on a new album with Andrew Jenkins at the controls. The release date is “sometime in the new year,” but here’s hoping it’s soon. She’s also working on a new band that’ll include Julian McDonough (who is, ya know, awesome) and others.

Do I have a copy of the latest Femme Uke recording? Yes I do. Is it absolutely awesome, just like everything else Femme Uke does? Yes it is. Will you be glad you picked it up when it comes out? Yes you will. Out very soon on Most Gross Records (Jenn Hartman and Sam Parker ex-Bellingham folk).

The Endorfins (not Endorphins we apologize for the misspelling in the last issue) have a CD release party on Friday, Jan. 6 at the Old Foundry with Kithkin and Osa. In addition, they are also back in the studio, recording new music with Will “I’m friends with Rob Gronkowski” Glazier.

Yogoman Burning Band is releasing a live recording in February the only recording of YBB as a four-piece. Caught on tape (wow, that’s an old term) at a summer Boundary show, the recording catches the dynamic of YBB’s most interesting set up as a four piece without guitar or keys, the band really got to move around and explore in their space. Look for the debut YBB’s latest line up in February.

Triceracorn is already working on their second album (with the first just being released). I really, really love this band IG88 doing the beats gives it an absurd depth and Beige’s rhymes are ridiculous.

E-clec-ti-ci-ty are also working on their second album. No word yet on when it will be done, think they’re all students, but you should expect pretty good stuff from these guys on the local funk scene. They’ve been known to get people’s asses shaking.

COMING & GOING

Bands seem to be forming daily, including Astronauts and Airballoons, which is comprised of Barrett Lizza, Preston Whitman (Pirate Pirate Motorhome) and Chad from Drogados. According to Barrett, they play a bunch of different, weird instruments, including a theramin, which makes me a little giddy inside. Watch for shows.

Rhombu$ is back! Armed with Jordan Rain on guitar, what started out as a few reunion shows has turned into a week-long tour down to northern California and back. Sounds funny, but I feel like Bellingham’s music scene is better with Rhombu$ playing music again. Hopefully this isn’t just a one shot deal. Check out their Bellingham shows at Jinx on Jan. 18 and later that night down at the Cabin.

Scum Eating have gone through some personnel changes with Jessyca Murphy replacing Robert Lashey on vocals and Henry Miller replacing Bill Anker on drums. Henry spent some time playing drums with Sisturn Moth, so we’re stoked to see him playing again.

Casey Nolan has stepped down as the booking coordinator at WhAAM and has been replaced by Emily Manke. Kate McCracken is the new volunteer coordinator. You are now up to date on the who’s who of WhAAM. Now go to a show.

Bright Weapons are going on a nearly half year hiatus while singer Amy Gibson heads to China for a while. Not sure what “Handsome” Rob is going to do during the break, but he’s gotten pretty good at playing bass through a fuzz pedal, then posting it on youtube. So, there’s that. In the mean time, catch ‘em at Shakedown on Jan. 7 with Shit Machine and Sunshine.

Havilah Rand is back in town for a few months. She recently played a great show down at the Blue Horse, hopefully you’ll see more of her shows before she heads back to Austin. Ms. Rand also has a new disc out, which I hope to pick up very, very soon. Havilah is old school, used to see her play before the magazine even started. Love it when folks keep on keeping on.

GOOD TIMES

Checkmate Music has opened up over on Northwest, by the old Manna Music (if you know where that was, then you are damn old) and, coincidentally, next to Checkmate Pawn. David Payne, aka, The Guitar Doctor, is managing the shop with the help of Zach and Eron from Black Beast Revival. Unlike other music shops, Checkmate gets their items like a pawn shop, so you’ll find different stuff there (I got a trumpet for $25!). Check it out.

Speaking of sounding damn good, I didn’t make it to the Sloths show in December (had the date wrong), but I heard they killed it. There’s something about this band, they almost remind me of Truman’s Water, an old band from San Diego it’s like they’re constantly on the cusp of utter destruction. Always right there, pushed to the limit both sonically and emotionally God I love it. Some of the coolest music I’ve heard in awhile.

IG88 just signed to Portland based Nueva Forma and will be releasing his debut album on Feb. 20. You can check out IG88 special guest set at the What’s Up! Awards show on January 28. If you haven’t checked out IG88, do, you’ll be blown away. What’s inside Branden’s head is very, very interesting.

A band that I absolutely love, The Heligoats, look to be headed out on tour this spring and summer. Which means a new album is probably on the way. Which means I’m happy very, very happy. Chris (The Heligoats) has a unique way of staying under the radar locally, while gaining a loyal following nationally not sure most people realize what a badass he is and that he’s even here.

The 23rd Trailer Wars will be held at the Pickford Film Center on Jan. 11. The theme is Buddy Cop Movies. Let the hilarity commence. That is all.

Bellingham has a new podcast called Project Bellingcast, done by the brilliant minds of Chris Patton and Ross Brackett. The debut podcast includes a roundtable discussion of local restaurants, an interview with the City of Lost Children and an interview with yours truly to kick things off. Chris came by the house, we chatted, he met my wife and kids we had a good time. It was an honor to be on the debut. Check it out, think you’ll enjoy it. You can find the podcast online and on itunes.

Well, think that’s about it for this month, my friends. As always, thanks for reading and supporting the magazine. I look forward to seeing you at the Awards Show!

Brent Cole

editor@whatsup-magazine.com

DJ Shortwave spins some tunes. COURTESY PHOTO

Dubstep has come a long way from the underground rave experiments in club drugged, neon and black-lit basements. Dubstep, which is defined as an electronic genre based on bass-saturated, cybernetic drops and riffs, increased in mainstream popularity beginning in the late 2000s and early 2010s. More recently, popular hip-hop and pop artists have leeched onto the genre, incorporating buzzing bass drops into their tracks.

For Bellingham dubstep spinner Felix “Shortwave” Garner, the majesty of his craft began far before the current dubstep craze, with the rave scene of the late 90s. “I started going to EDM parties [raves] in 1996. I loved to dance and party while getting down to all sorts of “techno” music. A couple of years later, I eventually ended up moving into a house with turntables and I slowly started to learn to spin records,” he said.

From then on, Shortwave was sold. As someone who produces, publishes, promotes and DJs electronic music, it is safe to say that spinning and mixing has become a daily ritual for Garner, who is constantly inspired by futuristic space-aged sounds. “I love sci-fi and I am a neophile. My crush on robots and lasers might explain my preference in robofunk a little further as well,” he said. “I was always fascinated by shortwave radio and all the stories around the first major wireless technology. I find waveforms fascinating, beautiful and very intriguing, so I decided to affiliate myself with the name.”

With overwhelming bass lines and rumbling drum patterns, sporadic samples, and occasional vocals, Shortwave has channeled the future of sound, creating a clamor resembling a dark blend of the Matrix meets STOMP. And there’s a real energy to this music that feels organic in the midst of complete technology. “Dubstep is the new punk rock. It’s a speaker-freaking bass-heavy genre that pushes technology and the listener to the limit. The highly processed sounds take the listener to new places which are fun and attractive for most people who worship bass,” said Garner, “electronic music is about musical exploration, execution of technical knowledge, and patience.”

Creating intensely layered tracks and learning where to break is an art you can only master with practice and persistence, according to Garner. “Finding the best places to stitch songs together isn’t a huge mystery, but is still one of the most guarded secrets of DJing and can only be learned with experience. Once you get the process figured out it seems obvious and you become programmed.”

However, Shortwave keeps his mind open to the evolution of the trade. Through experimentation and development in the genre, he knows dubstep will keep advancing and changing. “I have always felt that with electronic music, the sounds are limitless and if you play with a synthesizer long enough, you can discover sounds never heard before,” he said.

Regardless of what the future holds, Shortwave sees his job as a sort of messenger to the people; his trade is his way of enlightening others with the presence of quality music. “I have always thought my job is to find new good music and expose the dance floor to the fresh new sounds to get down to.”

And to Garner, nothing is more satisfying than creating a vibe that ignites the energy in a crowd. “I love rocking a room full of dancers. Introducing people to new music is the most rewarding part though.”

Above all, Shortwave’s goal is to ensure that people have an incredible time and that his spinning contributes to it. “A good DJ assesses the room and plays to it so that the party can start and the physical socializing can begin. Everyone is there for the same reason, and DJs live to help people get down.”

Catch DJ Shortwave with DJ Postal at Rumors on Tuesday and Friday nights.

What's Up! Magazine Cover - May 2011. Artwork by Jess Hara

Good morning, good morning, hello hello. Welcome to the month of May. I hope everyone is doing well this month and you’re ready to read a little bit on the Bellingham music scene, sliced and diced right into these very pages.

Each month, I like to begin this column with a little on what’s happening on the What’s Up! front.

The What’s Up! Presents at the Pickford Film Center (which is NOT called the Pickford Dream Space, as we stated last month, our apologies) is continuing this month with two very cool films. The first, which runs May 20-21 at 9 p.m. (Friday and Saturday) is about Jesse Bernstein, in I Am Secretly an Important Man. Having grown up in Seattle during Bernstein’s heyday the 70s and 80s I was well versed in the eccentric ways of the city’s best known beat poet. He played shows with bands like Soundgarden and Nirvana that were manic, disturbing and often brilliant gaining him the attention of such luminaries as Oliver Stone. In October of 1991, Berstein stabbed himself in the throat, ending his life and furthering his legend. The film examines the life and work of fascinating and troubled Bernstein. Next, on May 24, we’ll be presenting a single showing of Howl at 8 p.m.. Staring James Franco, the movie is about Allen Ginsburg and his seminal poem, Howl – another cool film if yer a fan of poetry. Then, June 3-4 at 9 p.m., we’ll be presenting The Upsetter: The Life and Music of Lee Scratch Perry. If yer a fan of reggae, this is a must see but even if you aren’t, it’s a damn good film. Directors Ethan Higbee and Adam Bhala Lough delve into the music industry and Lee Scratch Perry’s life within that context. Three great films over a two-week span at the Pickford, you should check ‘em out.

Now onto the music.

BOOKED & HOOKED

Minus the rough start, Yellingham 2011 was a huge success. The police shut down the Contra show (the house address was listed in a different publication), but let all the other ones go off without a hitch. So, next time you want to be a jerk to the police, remember they actually let Yellingham happen when they could’ve worked to shut the whole thing down. Not sure how the Yellingham organizers will top this year’s, it was so big, so cool, it’ll be tough to do while still keeping it underground. Good to see lots of folks out for all-ages shows, as well, hopefully a lot of young people were introduced to new bands. Then they’ll start bands and the scene continues and so on and so forth. It’s how it works.

The Underground Coffeehouse on campus will be hosting a Battle of the Bands on May 11 that’s gonna be interesting. On top of the battle part, which is always interesting, I’ll also be a judge, which makes it REALLY interesting. Winner will be playing a very, very special show at the PAC on May 25, before The Head and the Heart. I believe the deadline for submissions might have passed, but the UCH could very well let a few more folks in for the sake of a good competition.

The UCH also has a Spring CD sampler that ya’ll should check out. It features all the best bands playing at the UCH over the spring quarter and is available at the coffeehouse. Free local music, how can ya beat that?

BEAF (Bellingham Electronic Arts Festival) is making its triumphant return over the first weekend of May. The festival begins on May 5 at 4 p.m. in the American Museum of Radio and Electricity where there will be a lecture and demonstration as well as a Theremin clinic (A THERIMIN CLINIC). If I remember correctly from last year, there were a ton of amazing vintage synthesizers and other electronic equipment for folks to check out on this first afternoon really amazing old stuff. Music is scheduled to begin later that evening at the Western Viking Union open gala and the weekend just takes off from there. Each day and night features a ton of great music as well as lectures about electronic music. Please check out beaf.org if you, ya know, like music.

Blue Horse Gallery continues to be a good place for some local jazz there’s never enough jazz in town, so it’s good they’re around. It’s an all-ages venue so you can bring yer kids if you want introduce them to jazz, they’ll turn out like Sarah Jerns!

DJ Short-wave is putting on an epic Dub Step extravaganza on May 29 at the Majestic on Forest. Ben Samples, Short-Wave, Postal and Dubble Penetration will be spinnin’ while artists as well as live visuals will be shown throughout. If the bass scene is yer thing, this will be a huge, huge show to hit at the end of Memorial Day weekend.

ON THE ROAD

As is the case each month, tons of stuff happening in the Yogoman Burning Band camp. First off, YBB is hitting the West Coast from May 27 through June 6 including a headlining slot at the 35th Annual Summer Arts and Music Festival in Gaberville, California. They’ll also be playing a show on May 6 at Vaudvillingham which is a benefit for Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood and in support of The Bellingham High School Gay-Straight Alliance.

In addition, Jordan Rain and his wife Tina North are performing at the Book Fare Caf , located above Village Books on May 19, and also as Memes on May 2 at the Ridge. OK, so, yeah, that’s cool, right?

THERE’S MORE! Yogoman (and Zach Zinn, aka DJ Platonic) are hosting Drink, Dance, and Domino to domestic and international Soul on Tuesday nights at The Shakedown, and May will bring the return of Yogoman to Boundary Bay. This isn’t just May, anymore, it’s YogoMay (yeah, I said that, I’m awesome).

COMING & GOING

Drummer Andrew Jenkins has a new studio out in Ferndale called Crestview Recording. He’s currently working on a Bears Everywhere EP with Jeff Den Adle, which should be very, very cool.

Teo Crider (Candysound) has teamed up with “Omar” and Katie Rismondo (Party Thighs) for a little pop punk band called Jaguarz. They’re just startin’ up, so WATCH OUT!

Wounded Age have begun working on their debut EP which is slated for release this summer, with their full length to follow in the fall. METAL! YES!

Bobby (bass) and Jeff (guitar) from Full Frontal Assault and the All Nighters and Sean (drums) from The Baltic Cousins, The Russians and Tearamanapart have joined forces to form Devilry. Do I need to say more? Not really, the awesomeness is already there.

Aaron Apple, Casey Nolan, Nick Duncan and Toby Reif have formed Bowl Cut, a band inspired by the hair style. Actually, they’re more inspired by pop punk, but when I think of pop punk, I think of children’s hair styles, so it really works. On a side note, this band has four of the coolest, most genuine people in the music scene today, which makes them one of my favorites without hearing a note.

RECORDS & RELEASES

Anacortes’s own Spoonshine has released a new EP, their first in three years, which was produced by Adam Kasper (who has also produced The Foo Fighters, Seaweed, Cat Power). The band has been playing around the Northwest for years and seems poised to really get some notoriety for their work. Could be a good year for the ol’ Shine.

Hambone Wilson has been a busy, busy dude with two CDs and a DVD coming out this month. The first is a set of railroad inspired songs that he recorded with the legendary Evan Johns (some of which I heard and is really cool) while the second is his own material (but produced by Evan Johns) called Sumthin’ Cookin’. The DVD was filmed at his performance at the Sunbanks R & B festival in 2010. Lots of goods from Wilson, who has been hangin’ tight as of late it’s good to see him out playing a ton of music again. Watch for shows at McKay’s and the Cabin Tavern this month as well as a CD release at the Roadside Tavern in Deming on May 13.

Barnum Jack have changed their name to Pretty Little Feet and will be releasing their release on June 3 at Boundary Bay with The Librarians, Squirrel Butter and guests. The album was recorded by Tim Brown at Actual Air Studio.

Candysound is very, very close to finishing up their latest EP and will be playing some shows (including one at KUGS at the end of the month). Ya know I’m a huge fan of Candysound, have been for years now, so I’m really excited for the new goods. Great band.

After tons of hard work and labor, the new Snug Harbor album is finally ready to hit the streets with their CD release being held at the Wild Buffalo on May 5. I sincerely hope the band takes their new goods and hits the road for a few weeks, comes home, then hits the road again (ala Yogoman Burning Band). In the mean time, check ‘em out in town. See the feature on them on page 20.

Continental Records has geared up for a busy 2011 with new releases by The Beechwoods and The Volcanics as well as a new magazine (#18) with a CD full of surf/rock goodies. Sean Berry, owner of Continental Records, has been putting out surf/rock goods for years, usually under the radar in Bellingham, but he’s well known in the surf community around the world. I dig that about this area, you can be a sneaky superstar.

Shit Machines’s CD release party is slated for May 13 at The Shakedown and will also include Zorbatron and the Party Thighs. I’ve listened to some of the Shit Machine disc and I really dig it, so come and buy a copy at the show!

That’s about it for this month. As always, check us out on Facebook for regular updates and show picks, and our website for web-only stories.

Have a happy month of May, enjoy all the happenings. And Happy Mother’s Day to all you wonderful moms out there!

Hugs and kisses, Brent

editor@whatsup-magazine.com

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Django Bohren, Brent Cole and Sharon Martin make funny faces

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Dog Shredder wins the best Heavier Than Heaven Award

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Hollie Huthman, Carey Ross and Sarah Jerns discussing awesomeness

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Zach Zinn and Lupe Flores show some skin

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Poops and Jordan Rain wrestle for the mic

10th Annual What's Up! Awards Show. Josh from Zorbatron

For the 10th annual What’s Up! Awards Show, the magazine pulled out all the stops enlisting some of the best bands in town for one hell of a fun night.

The show started off with the Dirty Bird Cabaret getting the audience inspired. They reminded me of what typical airbrushed-attractive would be like if someone ruffed it up and rubbed some dirt on it. These lovely ladies reminded me of what Madonna would have looked like if she’d have had her start in the Old West. Ripped fishnets, go-go boots, and fringed lingerie gave the crowd plenty to look at and get excited about.

The first performance of the night was the debut of Glowbug–Daniel Anderson’s (Idiot Pilot) electronic solo project. It was quite a sight to see, Anderson literally glowing in a string of white lights, insect wings and flanked on either side by an equally glowing back-up dancer. The mixing was skillfully done and will probably receive plenty of play at local house-parties. Anderson thrashed his way around the stage, jumping off monitors and tossing his microphone in wide swinging arcs. He was so vigorous in fact that at one point he unplugged his lights, and could barely keep himself still enough to let one of his dancers re-energize him.

Zorbatron were up next – their music would be the perfect thing to play really loud while you dance in your room by yourself after having a less than perfect day. It has the same peppy-rock quality of bands from the mid to late 90′s and went over incredibly well with the now much larger crowd. Zorbatron closed with well known song “Ambush.” The Dirty Birds re-appeared on stage and put the bush in the title with black curly wigs stuffed into the front of their camo-booty shorts. Looking like a kitsch Vietnam-themed stage act, they certainly added to Zorbatron’s final song.

Initiating a new Dirty Birds, Lupe Flores pulled a female audience member onto the stage to help unveil Zach Zinn’s sparkle bra and red bloomers. The award for Booty Shakin’ Music revealed even more skin as representative member of winner Yogoman Burning Band Jordan Rain mooned the audience.

The Baltic Cousins remind me of what would happen if you threw The Cave Singers into a blender with The Dropkick Murphys and added a Screamo lead singer. As with each of the bands on the line-up, just as they seemed to be hitting the sweet spot, their abbreviated set came to a close.

Next up were Keaton Collective, who are probably the most apt band name I’ve ever seen, they truly are just a collection of musicians. The hodgepodge of guitarists and percussionists working two full drum kits in unison began their set with an Americana feel, including a new track called “Hilltop Saloon.” Then almost seamlessly they progressed into a harder edged feel.

After another inspired routine by the Dirty Birds, The Productionists changed things up with their R & B/hip hop sound. Clint and crew showed why they have won the Best Rhyme and Beats three years running.

Ending the show were Polecat (winners of Best Highway Americana and Best Newby) who kicked the exhausted and lit crowd into a frenzy. While an unfortunate amount of people left, those that stayed got to soak in some of the best dancing music the town has to offer.

THE WINNERS

Best Silver Platter: Acorn Project – Generation Debt
Best Up Close and Personal: Keaton Collective
Best Heavier Than Heaven: Dog Shredder
Best Booty Shakin’ Music: Yogoman Burning Band
Best Twilight Zone Soundtrack: The All Nighters
Best Highway Americana: Polecat
Best Smash Your Head…: The Contra
Best Axes of Folk: Kristin Allen-Zito
Best Spinner: Yogoman
Best Rhyme and Beats: The Productionists
Best Newby: Polecat
Best Rock ‘N’ Roll Explosion: Sugar Sugar Sugar
Best Pop Will Rock Itself: Go Slowpoke
Best Skin in What’s Up!: Cara Alboucq
Best Video Killed the Radio Star: Bellingham State of Mind
What’s Up! Appreciation Award: Make.Shift
What’s Up! Lifetime Achievement Award: Carey Ross
What’s Up! Gunther Jose Frank Award: Michelle Schutte

Photos by Elliot Johnston, Matt Curtis, Paul Turpin and Brandon Fralic
For ALL of the photos, check out the awards show photo gallery!

What's Up! Cover - February 2011. Artwork by Jerry Fowls at Lucky Lady Tattoo

Well, well, well, good day my friends. I hope yer are all surviving the nasty virus going around town. We’re surviving here at the What’s Up! office/Cole family home, but that’s been about it. So, if you’ve been wondering where the hell the paper is over the first week of February that’s the word, bird. Our production guru, my wife Becca, came down with the virus that’s been knocking everyone out and it knocked her out. Which is pretty amazing soul sister never gets sick and this one took her out for a full week.

So, we’re sorry for the delay. Unfortunately, when you run a mom and pop organization and the mom part is very sick, and then everything grinds to a halt. Which, in the grand scheme of things is fine I just hate seeing my beautiful wife sick like that!

Anyhow stay healthy everyone.

I’d like to thank everyone who participated and came out to the What’s Up! Pre-Pre, Pre and “The” Awards shows. It was a great time had by all we showcased some of the best bands this town has to offer while all celebrating this amazing and vibrant music community. I’d like to thank Candysound and Biagio and the Argonauts for playing the Pre Pre Awards Show at the Underground Coffeehouse (titled Pre Pre because it’s the one before the Pre Awards Show), Dog Shredder, Lampost Revival, No-Fi Soul Rebellion and Acorn Project for playing the Pre Awards Show on campus as well Glowbug, Zorbatron, Baltic Cousins, Keaton Collective, The Productionists and Polecat for playing the Awards Show; Poops, DJ Postal and the Dirty Bird Cabaret for between set entertainment, Eli Ziebell and James Gillies for help with the trophies, Sam Eisen-Meyers and Megan Housekeeper for booking the shows on campus; Casey Nolan, Andrew Nickerson, Lupe Flores, Zach Zinn, Sarah Jerns, Jordan Rain, Carey Ross, and Josh Holland for presenting awards as well as Qt Kiwi for handing out the awards. Finally, I’d like to thank Brittany Smith and Hallie Anderson for running the show it was by far the smoothest and most stress free awards show we’ve ever done, Craig Jewel and the Wild Buffalo for letting us host the show there, my wife for guiding me through all the stress of putting the show together and Braden Peterson, for being a badass behind the bar (as well as the rest of the staff at the Wild Buffalo). Congrats to all the winners as well we had approximately 200 more legitimate votes this year over last and I’m continuously amazed at the support this town offers local musicians. Don’t believe me? Try to find a What’s Up!, an awards show, a local all ages venue (which we’ll talk about shortly) and bunch of great venues as well as house shows in any other town with less than 100,000 people in it! This is a special place and I’m damn honored I get to cover what all the great folks around here are doing.

As I just mentioned, Bellingham will soon have its own, legit, all ages venue! WhAAM and Make.Shift had a goal of $8,500 needing to be raised by Jan. 16 and they raised over $12,000! 150 people donated over $12,000 averaging to $80 per person. Again, I’m so, so very proud of this community and the support it’s shown the music scene. A legitimate all ages venue is KEY to the vitality of a music scene it opens up access to music for those under 21, it gets them excited about music! The new spot won’t just be a venue, though, as we talked about last month. There will be classes and a host of things bands can utilize to promote, tour or just get organized. It’ll be a hub for the local scene and it’ll be amazing. There are still a lot of things that are needed for the venue, so please check out www.makeshiftproject.com for more information. The battle isn’t over now that they’ve got some money please continue to help either through donations of money or supplies. Look for a potential spring opening.

So, yeah, that’s cool, right? I mean, seriously, a devoted all ages venue/hub is possibly the coolest thing to happen to the town this year… if this were a typical year. Instead, we get another shot of good news! The Shakedown, located at 1212 North State Street (old home of the Factory, Callaloo and Plan B) should be open sometime in March if all goes as planned. You can expect a 3B inspired vibe there, though without a retro feel to it it’ll be the medium size rock ‘n’ roll club the town needs. It won’t just be rock ‘n’ roll, obviously, but it’ll have a cool edgy vibe to it. I lay awake at nights thinking about the awesomeness of The Shakedown. You will love it.

3 six 0 Music will be opening their doors in February (that’s the plan, at least). The new music shop – which will feature primarily used gear with some new as well as music lessons – will be housed in the old Video Extreme building on Holly Street (kind of by the Lighthouse Mission).

To recap new all ages venue, new medium size club and a used gear shop all happening this spring. HOT DAMN!

Ok, now to the bands.

BELLINGHAM POWER

Last year, we were graced with Chris Otepka (The Heligoats) moving TO town (as opposed to the normal exodus of talented people moving out) and this year Louis Ledford has decided to make Bellingham home. Louis moved up from New Orleans and while I haven’t had a chance to find out exactly what prompted the move (I assume sexy sexy Robert Blake had something to do with his relocation), I’m thrilled he’s here. You might’ve caught Louis at the Subdued Stringband Jamboree the dude is a talented songwriter and musician and you can start catching him more often around town.

Speaking of The Heligoats, they’ve just released a new split 10″ with Sam Humans from Portland, which I assume will be amazing (but haven’t heard it yet). Chris also spent some time back east in December when NPR flew him out to do a Tiny Desk Concert for the web. That, my friends, is really, REALLY cool. Seriously, a local was flown to Washington D.C. to play on NPR. Stunning, absolutely stunning. The Heligoats also landed on NPR’s All Songs Considered top 10 for 2010 list. Congrats, Chris!

Daniel Anderson is about to head out on tour with Hyro Da Hero that’ll take him to the UK in March and April. Where’s that leave his latest project, Glowbug? Not playing enough live shows, I’ll tell you that much. Band was amazing at the awards show.

There was a time when people could say Bellingham was a fun town, but a dead end for musicians if you really wanted to do something on a more professional level. Louis, Chris and Daniel (and bands like Acorn Project who tour often) have proved that isn’t the case anymore.

GOOD TIMES

The Cabin Tavern continues to book some great bands, including the Mumlers on March 2 (this one courtesy of Zach Zinn and his new company Orgoner Productions). The band has a pretty weird, but mellow sound that really blows me away (hence why we’re sponsoring the show). The chance to see the band in such a cool intimate setting is gonna be amazing.

On March 28, we’ll be having our What’s Up! magazine 13th birthday party, also at the Cabin. Why a Monday night? ‘Cuz that’s when the Strange Boys can play! Out of Austin, these guys are one of my favorite, favorite bands they play a mid-60s garage rock reminiscent of the 13th Floor Elevators or early Rolling Stones.

Ex-pat Chris Riffle, one of the best voices you’ll ever hear, is making his way back to Bellingham once again playing the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern on Feb. 24. This will be the third time in under a year that Chris has been in the area and I suggest everyone that reads this paper should make it down to the show. In all the years of doing this magazine, Chris is one of my favorite songwriters with an incredible voice. Don’t miss this show! He lives in NY, so who knows when he’ll be back!

We had planned on running a story on the Mud Jugglers at the Bellingham Circus Guild this month, but with the delay, we couldn’t… which sucks the Circus Guild is doing some great events each month and we wanted to help shine a spotlight on ‘em. Please check out their website, BellinghamCircusGuild.com, for a full calendar.

Good to see the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern still alive. As it is with all clubs locally, if you don’t go to shows, don’t drink, they can’t survive. So, please, support these venues so Bellingham can remain amazing. Tons of great shows there this month.

Bellingham Nite Life is hosting a new electronic music night at the Fairhaven Pub on Feb. 17 and March 3 with DJ Lithium, Erin Bersch, Neural Net, and JGuyver, as well as rotating local DJs. Check it out if that’s yer scene!

The Shadies, which have taken over part time residency at the Cabin Tavern on Wednesday nights, are playin’ some old time country music. As of this writing, their last show included them playing at a table with no PA, which they dug a lot. Oh yeah, the band includes Andy Rick, Lucas Hicks, and Reeb Williams, plus guest musicians. Good times!

The 3rd annual Winter Commission will be held at the American Museum of Radio and Electricity on Feb. 26. This year’s theme is Storytelling and will include film, amazing music, 30 artists as well as tons of other artistic goodies. The folks who do the Winter Commission like Music for Moderns, have always blown me away; it’s an incredible way to highlight the creativity of the town.

COMINGS & GOINGS

Caulfield and his Magical Violin have changed their name to The Violins and will be releasing Before You Die. I REALLY like the new name less distracting than old the name and I really dig this band, so should you (at least I think you will too).

Mary Mary have changed their name to Marriage, I assume to avoid any conflict or confusion with the gospel band Mary Mary. It’s also a different band to an extent with the addition of Drew Fitchette and Peter Woiwood. New name, same awesomeness.

Idiot Pilot are on “indefinite hiatus,” which I think is code for “broken up” in 2011 speak. Singer Michael Harris is moving to NY in the beginning of February and Daniel Anderson is working on Glowbug, Ghost and the Grace as well as touring with Hyro Da Hero. The boys had a great run and I’m sorry to see it go, but it sounds like they’re both moving onto bigger and better things. Good luck, guys!

I’ve heard from a couple different folks that The Slacks are their new favorite local band, which is amazing, ‘cuz I think they’ve only played a couple shows. The trio features LP from the Holy Tailfeathers, Andy Piper from Sugar Sugar Sugar and Jonathan Sampson from Bar Tabac. That, my friends, is an all-star line up.

Bayside Recording is changing their name to Champion St. Sound Studios. I was going to make up an elaborate story as to why, but I’m pretty tapped at this point. Baltic Cousins, Pan Pan and Marriage have all either been in or are in the studio right now.

RECORDS & RELEASES

Beam Me Up! by the Yogoman Burning Band will be out on vinyl in late February or early March. According to Yogoman himself, they’ve been getting some great airplay on KUGS as well as on KHUM in Arcada CA, which is, ya know, damn cool.

Robert Blake is releasing his latest recording, A Short Series of Long Nights Remembered-The Belfast Sessions on Feb. 25 at the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern. The album was is a collection of Irish folk songs recorded with Irish musicians (in Ireland, I assume that’s how Robert rolls). Opening is Giants Causeway, who are an amazing band as well.

The Baltic Cousins are releasing their debut CD in February. Though they’ll probably have it in time for the Lucero show at the Wild Buffalo on Feb. 12, their CD release party is at the Contra House on Feb. 25 with Ship to Ship, Monogamy Party and Blood Orange Paradise. In other Baltic Cousins news, Rabia Magnusson has joined on keys she made her live debut at the awards show. I REALLY love this band and Rabia added a cool element to their sound. Watch for a story on ‘em in the March issue.

Well, I’m out of room, so I’ve gotta stop. Please have a happy and safe February and remember when we reconvene for the next issue, baseball will have started back up we’ll have survived another winter, spring is on the way. Watch for updates on our facebook page and online at www.whatsup-magazine.com.

Hugs and kisses.

-Brent Cole

editor@whatsup-magazine.com

What's Up! Magazine Cover - January 2011. Cover art by Bradley Lockhart

HAPPY NEW YEARS! GO HAWKS!

As per usual, we’ll start off with a little What’s Up! news, all of which is very cool. This month we’re celebrating our 150th issue – a hell of a mark for a monthly publication (we’re celebrating our 13th anniversary in March). When the mag started, I had no plans of doing 150 issues of What’s Up!, I just thought doing a magazine would be a lot of fun so I could talk about cool bands. Well, 150 issues later, it’s still unbelievably fun to do this magazine and I get to talk about tons of cool bands and artists. This music scene has gone through a lot of ups and downs over the last 150 issues, but for every step backward, it’s taken two or three steps forward. You can’t even begin to compare the current music community to what it used to be. Even with all the recent venue issues, this is an amazing, amazing town for local bands. In 1998, when the magazine started, there weren’t many bands that would stick around after graduating from college, so there was a really high turn over. These days, though, there’s still a high turn over, but a lot of bands do stick around just look at the What’s Up! Awards line up. The Productionists, Polecat, Keaton Collective, Zorbatron, Baltic Cousins, and Glowbug all bands that aren’t going anywhere. These are men and women who call Bellingham home and contribute mightily to the music community. Back in 1998, 1that just wasn’t the case. It’s been a wonderful transformation to witness and be part of. (For those folks who aren’t familiar with the magazine’s earlier years we didn’t start putting out 12 issues a year till the fourth year).

The other bit of news is… the 10th Annual What’s Up! Awards Show! It’s back! Again, this isn’t anything we expected to evolve the way it did it was a way to throw a party and give the music scene a pat on the back. After 10 years, it’s grown into a showcase for some of the best bands in town and a way to celebrate the music scene! This year, as was the case last year, things kick off on Friday, Jan. 28 at the Underground Coffeehouse with Biagio and the Argonauts and Candysound. Then, when that show ends, everyone heads up to the Viking Union where Lampost Revival, Dog Shredder, No Fi Soul Rebellion and Acorn Project will wow the all-ages crowd.

Then, the following night, it’s show time at the Wild Buffalo starting at 9 p.m.! Opening up the show will be Glowbug (Daniel Anderson will premier his latest project), followed by Zorbatron, Baltic Cousins, Keaton Collective, The Productionists and Polecat. Intermixed will be awards handed out by some of Bellingham’s best and brightest musicians (did I really just say that?), as well as dancing from The Dirty Bird Cabaret, music between sets by DJ Postal, Poops will again be our host, and The Belletrists will play to attendees as they walk through the door before the show even begins.

Every year I’m blown away by the Awards Show and this one will be no different. Oh yeah, it’s only $6. Seriously, SIX BUCKS!

Now to some music scene “stuff.”

RECORDS AND RELEASES

Bellingham’s king of the avant-garde, Bruce Hamilton, has started a new label named Spectropol Records. Its first release, duopoly, features Bruce in duets with 21 other musicians ranging from free improvisation to experimental remix to electroacoustc recomposition. If you like interesting music, read the review coming up next month or give it a listen now at http://spectropolrecords.bandcamp.com/releases. I REALLY love it, parts of it are beautifully unnerving.

Cora Glass put out a recording last summer that, regrettably, flew under the radar. Well, NO MORE! Under the moniker, Chestnut Collection, Cora released the Go Fourth EP, a cool blend of indie folk. In November, she released Said Conversation, a continuation of said indie folks. Or indie Americana whatever works you should check it out.

Snug Harbor have been putting in the time, hunkering down and rehearsing in anticipation of recording their new album this month. Look for it to hit the streets in March or so.

Pink Hotel Music, a collective featuring 11 local and regional bands including Candysound, Cat From Hue and Caulfield and his Magic Violin are working on a compilation that will hopefully be hitting the streets in the spring. I’ve got a sneaking suspicion 2011 isn’t going to be the year of the rabbit, but the year of the Teo.

It could also be the year of the Seagull Livingston Seagull. They’ve been hard at work on their latest (and greatest) which will be released within the next few months. I really dig these guys one of Bellingham’s up and coming bands.

Pirate Pirate Motorhome (not to be confused with Pirate Motorhome, the Swedish metal polka duo) are almost done with their latest (and greatest, thinking about really running that phrase into the ground) release and are planning a tour based around SxSW, which sounds a lot like a band that is playing SxSW. More details to foooolllllooooowwwwww.

Erin Corday’s new release has been pushed back to either February or March, due to technical difficulties at the printing plant. I’m not sure, but I believe a switch has been made with another go of it so, again, stay tuned!

The Endorphins have been in the studio, recording their follow up to their debut EP. A CD release will be at the Wild Buffalo on Feb. 25. Austin is very excited.

Caparza, which features members of Jo Dawn Baker, Our Fallen Heroes and countless other bands will FINALLY be releasing their debut EP next month. There’s a hint of rock and hint of roll and a butt load of having your face smashed in. Pretty sure guitarist Lance Vangraham is top three of Bellingham’s tattooed musicians. I like that!

COMINGS AND GOINGS

Audra, formerly of Rhombus (and of Cabin Tavern fame) is now playing bass with the Party Thighs, filling the spot left empty by Jenn Hartman’s departure. That makes 20 bands that Casey Nolan is in.

The mighty Drew Fitchette (Mary Mary, Rooftops) has joined up with Evan Bridges (ex-Pirates R Us) to open a new coffee shop downtown. Located kitty corner from the Depot Market, close to Boundary Bay, Onyx is a small coffee bar that specializes in “single origin drip” that’s made to order. They’ll be using only the best of the best coffee ranging from regional (Seattle) to international (Norway). They expect to move into coffee catering as well as a mobile coffee cart. They’re open 10-6, Wednesday through Saturday.

Another coffee shop is opening up as well, this one a couple doors down from the Wild Buffalo. The new location for Woods Coffee is at 1313 Bay Street and will feature not only coffee, but music as well. Although the music will be slow at first, they hope to have music six nights a week within six months. The big show this month is the CD release party for Jesse Morrow on Jan. 21.

Last month we described the wrong Casey Nolan band as being Downfall. It’s not her pop/punk band, rather her metal band. Still Casey Nolan, still awesome.

CONGRATULATIONS

It’s with incredible excitement that I get to announce the birth of Emmett Calvin Gilbert, aka “Little Poops.” Born on Dec. 28, Little Poops was said to have gotten the nurses singing karaoke within an hour of his birth. Congrats to Poops and Sarah, we here at the magazine couldn’t be more excited for you three!

Looking forward to seeing you all during the Awards Show weekend Jan. 28-29. Thanks for supporting What’s Up!, and enjoy all the happenings this month!

Brent Cole

editor@whatsup-magazine.com

What's Up Cover - December 2010. Artwork by Mandy Cramer

Oooooooh, striped socks. I love it. With candy canes even.

Hi everybody, how are ya’ll doing this fine fall? Enjoying the snow and the cold, I hope. Welcome to this edition of le Beat the Taylor Momsen of the music scene (yeah, wrap your mind around that one).

As per usual, a little housekeeping before I move on to what really matters you, the bands, and the fans.

First off, I’d like to thank everyone who came out for my 40th birthday party. It was, without a doubt, one of the best nights I’ve ever had. I knew the music would be unreal, but I was floored by the incredible kind gestures and words from many of you very cool and very touching. I was also floored by how amazing the vibe of the night was I don’t know if it was because we brought back Federation X and Sharpie and that brought out some old school folks who were REALLY excited to part with their kids for the night and see some rock. Or, if the energy of the night was great because it was such a great line up… or because it was a big birthday party and it’s hard not to have a good time at a drunken birthday party whatever it was, the night was special, not just for me but for many who came out. Reminded me of some shows I saw years ago and it was great to capture that feeling again.

Speaking of the bands, want to send a very special thank you to the great people on stage. Bill and Ben from Federation X flew over from NY to play the show, while Aaron Ball from Sharpie and Stell Newsome from Sugar Sugar Sugar had to travel up for practices just to play the show. It was an honor that people took time out of their lives, especially to reunite, just for the show. And of course, Mike Mitchell with the Holy Tailfeathers, which was incredibly cool. It was an epic night. Everyone played incredibly well, I was blown away by how good Sharpie and Federation X sounded better than I remember ‘em. And many thanks to the Wild Buffalo for hosting, thanks to Hollie Huthman, Matt Curtis and Paul Turpin for sharing their photos, thanks to Squirrel Girl for that epic stage dive, and to those who helped with equipment.

Finally, I’d like to thank my dear wife Becca and friend Carey Ross for organizing my “happy birthday” song and to Scott K Seitz for getting the whole bar to sing together… then showing his ass. Somehow it wouldn’t have been the same if Scott didn’t show his back parts.

The night was a great experience that’ll be etched in my brain for life. The music and the friends, just amazing. You’re all awesome.

OK, enough about that.

What’s Up! will be holding its 10th Annual Awards Show on Saturday, Jan. 29 at the Wild Buffalo and it’s shaking out to be the best yet. Musical performances include Zorbatron, Keaton Collective, The Productionists, Polecat, and Baltic Cousins, along with the live show debut of Glowbug the latest project by Daniel Anderson (of Idiot Pilot fame). I’ve been told Glowbug will have an extra special set. There will also be music in the foray, with DJ Postal spinning between sets, dancing by the Dirty Bird Cabaret and the whole event will be hosted by Poops. That, my friends, is an unbelievable evening.

As if that wasn’t cool enough, we’ll be hosting a couple all-ages shows the day before. The “pre” Pre-Awards Show at the Underground Coffeehouse will have Candysound and Biagio Biondillilo, while the Pre-Awards Show will take place at the Viking Union, with performances by Dog Shredder, No-Fi Soul Rebellion, Acorn Project and Vaughn Kreestoe another fantastic line up.

As for ballots, voting will begin around Dec. 10. Check the website to cast your vote for categories. Remember, do not stuff the virtual ballot box! We will know when you do and we’ll toss em. So vote responsibly please.

We have some new things in store this year, including a category for Best Music Video. We’ve seen a lot, but we want to see more? Did your band make a video? Share it with us via e-mail by sending to editor@whatsup-magazine.com.

So, keep the Awards Show weekend open, we look forward to seeing ya, and it’s going to be a blast. We throw awesome parties, you should be there!

Now to the music.

The big, big, BIG news of the month is the new spot for WhAAM and Make.Shift. It’s over on Unity Street (by Griggs) and looks to be the absolutely perfect spot for the two organizations. They’ve been looking for eight months and have finally, finally found “their place.” But, they can’t open it without some serious donations the two groups are looking to raise at least $8,500 via kickstarter by Jan. 16. Ya know how you always see folks talking about “support your scene” or “support local music?” Supporting doesn’t just mean seeing your friend’s bands and having some drinks (which, on its own, is just fine), it also means ponying up when it’s time to do so and this is one of those times. Both WhAAM and Make.Shift are working hard to make the community a better place. I mean, seriously think about it, Bellingham with its own Vera Project (or 924 Gillman Street Project) a place for people of all ages to get into music. In my estimations, there are few greater causes in the music scene than this one. As of press time, they were nearing $1,000, but they need a bunch more. If everyone reading this paper gave a dollar, they’d have nearly three times enough money to open. SO, donate. Now. Please. Here’s the website: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/makeshift/the-makeshift-music-project

Federation X are now a band again, though obviously limited by the constraints of geography. After having so much fun playing music for the big 40th birthday party, they’ve decided to rock again playing a series of dates in the Northeast with none other than Monotonix!!! Absolutely awesome. Fed X rocks our world and we wish them the best.

Corduroy called it a day a few months ago, but Tim Leighton has a new band happening with Jenni Potts which he describes as “really heavy.” Stay tuned.

Peter MacLean Woiwood (Go Slowpoke) and Drew Fitchette (ex-Rooftops) have joined Mary Mary making the band a five piece. I’m not sure I’ve mentioned this before, but I think Zach Zinn it a total badass in the music scene. If you wanna know more about good music, go into his record collection.

Caparza recorded their new 7″ recently, though there is no official word on the release as of press time. The band is also working on doing a split LP with Random Orbits out of Seattle as well as writing more and more material. Think 2011 will be a good year for the boys of Caparza.

PRND is a new band featuring Jason Sands (Frozen Cloak, ex-Reeks and the Wrecks) as well as Bradley Leckron. They play spacey electronic music a Jason Sands special. You can find them on Facebook where they’ve got two songs listed both recorded at Jinx.

“Squirrel Girl” has a new band feature an amazing line up Nick Duncan, Aaron Apple and Toby Reif (who, I’ve been told, is amazing on guitar). Expect shows to happen sooner than later and expect their sound to be poppy-punk rock. Oh yeah, they’re called Downfall and have already done a little recording.

The Cat From Hue have released a new single, “One by One,” on Pink Hotel Music a collective that features Ambulance, Candysound, The Cat From Hue, Caulfield & His Magical Violin, Great Waves, The Masques, Kids and Animals, The Ronz, SEACATS, Teo Crider and Us on Roofs bands from Seattle to Bellingham and in between. The collective should be watched over the next year I see an Elephant Six reincarnated vibe happening. (That’s not too much pressure, is it Teo?).

The mighty Half Bees have been recording their full length album, though there is no official word on when the funk soul brothers will be releasing their debut album. Butts are shakin’ in anticipation. Especially Austin’s.

The Knapp Brothers (check them out on page 15), just finished a video for Jenni Potts (which had been months in the making) and are already moving forward with a new Lumpkins video that was initially filmed in the recent snow storm. For some reason, I’ve got a bunch of naked jokes, but nothing seems appropriate.

Dog Shredder will be hitting the road at the end of March with Tacoma’s Lozen for a short tour down the West Coast. Hopefully soon the boys will be releasing their epic new recording… boys? What’s the word?

There’s rumor of a new project between Clint Westwood and Knucklehead an amazing MC in town. No word on if the project is even out of the planning stages, but it should be absolutely amazing if and when it happens.

James Hardesty has decided to keep the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern open for now. Watch for changes in the future that will hopefully make the bar more profitable or at least able to keep the doors open a little easier. During the month of December, he’ll have the mighty Robert Sarazin Blake and the Silver Shirts every Monday for shows at 7:30 and 10 p.m. The Silver Shirts includes Jordan Rain on drums, Aaron Harmonson on bass, Jan Peters on piano and Mars Lindgren on horn. That, my friends, is an all star line up.

Plant Party have added two new players Lisa Feiertag on fiddle and Bobby Morgan on bass and will be heading into the studio in December to record their debut EP. Oh Adam Bates, you sly boots.

Acorn Project continue to make major waves on the national scene. They’re getting very positive reviews for Generation Debt all over the country and the album is currently ranked #1 on the Relix Magazine/Jambands.com national radio index chart ahead of a bunch of big names. AWESOME!

Scott Greene has just released a new EP, which is on store shelves as I type this. Looking forward to picking up my copy.

A special mention goes out to Sam Chue who contacted the magazine to let us know what he’s up to which is making pretty damn good songs. Don’t know much about the guy, but his songs on reverbnation fit into the singer/songwriter mold you should check him out.

Finally, before I close up shop this month, I’d like to again thank everyone for coming out to my birthday party, the kind words and the support of the magazine. Thank you’s don’t pay the bills here, but they are always greatly appreciated. And, let me tell you, they go a long way and we don’t forget when people are kind in their appreciation of the magazine, or even just being cool and letting us know what’s going on with their music.

We are not a rich publication, we are not backed by any big money like other publications out here, but we are rich in passion for the local scene and appreciate all the good folks out here. We have all kinds of amazing talent and people in our northwest corner, and no matter what genre you fuflill, you all love what you do (or at least should!) and feel it is important. But please remember that what is most important is maintaining good communication and respect for one another. It’s frustrating when people have to deal with certain, arrogant musicians who feel they are owed. Don’t be an ass, get off your high horse, and take it from someone who knows. Enjoy it, have a good time, work hard.

Thank you to the many local and independent businesses who proudly advertise in What’s Up! We cannot print without you and appreciate every single one of you.

We wish you and yours the happiest of holidays and an extremely awesome new year. I’m feeling good, are you?! See you in January.

Brent

editor@whatsup-magazine.com

What's Up! Cover - February 2010

Hello, welcome to the world of local music, may I please take your coat?

We held the What’s Up! Awards Show at the end of January and from all accounts, everyone had a good time judging by the money the Buffalo brought it, a very good time! In my estimations, it was probably top two awards shows of all time. I’d like to thank everyone involved Femme Uke, Pan Pan, Dog Shredder, Acorn Project, The All Nighters, Poops, DJ Postal, Dirty Bird Cabaret, Hallie Anderson, Brittany Smith, James Gillies, Sarah Holmes and my wonderful wife Becca who helped keep me going when I was ready to slide off the rails. I’d also like to thank the Wild Buffalo, especially Craig Jewel, for all the wonderful support working with them is part of what made the event so much fun. Finally, the presenters were the best yet and I’d like to thank them Carey Ross, Josh Holland, Austin Santiago, Cara Alboucq, Jenni Potts, Daniel Anderson, Ian Imhof and Sara Jerns. All told, everyone involved did a hell of a job. Thanks to everyone!

While all those people deserve a lot of credit, I’d like to single out Hallie and Brittany who managed the show that evening and made it so I had more fun and the show went better than ever before.

The key for the show, though, was how incredible the music was. Our host Poops together with Sarah started off with a great ditty, Femme Uke got things rolling by playing a set that would make my mom blush, Pan Pan was ridiculously amazing as well, Dog Shredder made my skull collapse, Acorn Project got everyone dancing and really rolling then the All Nighters capped it all off they were unbelievably good. Adding in DJ Postal, Poops and fantastic dancing by the Dirty Bird Cabaret (who added a special bit of love for the show)… well, hell, it was just a special, special night.

The night before the awards show, we held the 2nd annual Pre Awards up on campus. The Bellingham Free Choir and Council of Lions played at the Underground Coffeehouse with Sugar Sugar Sugar, Rooftops, Yogoman Burning Band and Idiot Pilot at the Viking Union. Wow, all six bands were unbelievable Bellingham Free Choir was straight fun with Council of Lions getting the crowd dancing, Sugar Sugar Sugar brought the rock back to campus, Rooftops are flat amazing, Yogoman got everyone dancing and Idiot Pilot blew the doors off the place they were one of the loudest bands I’ve ever seen. (We even received emails from folks who attended saying the same thing!) A whole bunch of underagers got to see what Bellingham has to offer and soaked up every bit of it.

RECORDS & RELEASES

Dog Shredder spent a week in Portland recording their debut long player. There’s no official word on when a disc will be released or on what label, but I’m looking forward to it with baited breath. Also, I want to make a special mention that Dog Shredder didn’t just go for two days and tried to record an album, they took (in indie terms) a lot of time and put a lot of effort into the recording each day (I’ve heard 14-hour days). Instead of rushing and sweating money, they did it right as they always seem to do.

Sugar Sugar Sugar are releasing a new disc and heading out on tour at the end of the month heading down the West Coast, the circling up the Midwest in Missouri and Nebraska before heading back through Montana. The CD release is being held on Feb. 25 at the Plan B Saloon with the discs hitting the streets the same day. (You can find more about the band on page 22 of this issue.)

The Productionists are inching closer and closer to wrapping up their new album. Rumor has it that it’ll be done in early spring most likely by the end of March. Having heard parts of it, you’ll be blown away by how good it sounds.

Another band who was recently in the studio is Vaughn Kreestoe who spent a little time at the end of January. No word on what came of the sessions, but I’m sure it’s some good funk.

The Dt’s have a new single out on Pure Vinyl, a label out of Austria, with another single slated for Ghost Highway Records out of Spain to be released this summer. The band has been working on new tracks and hope to wrap up this summer, according to Dave Crider.

She’s on Fire have just released their first record and it is pretty fantastic. Full of the mighty rock, check it out they’re selling ‘em at shows.

I have a cat compilation record in the office. It’s about cats, but with great Bellingham bands (and some not so great). Seriously… cats. First we had David Ney’s cat band, now the cat compilation which features 25 songs about cats. I’m not sure why Bellingham is going through a cat fetish right now, but… well… I’m just not sure. Either way, pick it up, it’s damn interesting most of it at least (Ian, I’m looking in your direction).

ON THE ROAD

Another band heading out is Rooftops, who are going on a gigantic tour beginning in mid-March. The boys will be heading to New York and back with stops in Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland and lands in between. Rooftops were also featured as CMJ’s Band of the Week at the end of January a very cool honor for a very cool band.

Yogoman Burning Band just got back from a wild tour, you can read about it in this month’s Tales From the Road (page 35). They’re going on another short tour in February, after which Robert Sarazin Blake will be leaving the band (they’ll remain a four-piece for the time being). Look for a new record out this spring.

COMINGS & GOINGS

Bluebird has called it a day, which is pretty disappointing. Patrick Everman has split off to form Don Juan, which I like. He also plays in Catcher with his girlfriend Alexandra, and will be heading out on tour in March, down to Los Angeles and back.

One more band that’s headed out this spring is Candysound, who will be heading south for a week or so. Their show in Salem will be with the aformentioned Catcher. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Teo Crider’s voice is amazing, one of the coolest I’ve ever heard. That’s no exaggeration – he’s unbelievably good.

A band that’s been in the scene off and on for awhile is Sisturn Moth featuring Chris Hipskin. Well, they’ve added Henry Miller on guitar and appear ready to take on the world. I dig the band quite a bit, so watch for shows and hopefully a new disc soon.

A new band to be on the lookout for is the mighty Frontbutt (unless they’re called Rose Hips now). It features Alex from Cumulus/Bellingham Free Choir and Luke from Palisades and is pretty punk rock (as told by their early recordings).

I’ve also been told that They Hibernate is a new band on the scene as well as Ruby Parasols (who have a myspace and just released an EP). Each day, new bands start up it’s part of what makes this town so cool.

A very informed source says that Game for Vultures are working on a reunion show. Who the hell is Game for Vultures, you might ask? It’s Mort’s band before the Mono Men Bellingham circa 1988 (I think). For the geezers in town and anyone who digs good music this is gonna be a hell of a thrill.

The Lonely Forest have signed to Atlantic Records. Seriously. Wow.

BOOKED & HOOKED

Joel Ricci will be making his return to Bellingham this month with a special show at the Green Frog on Feb. 8 (Joel moved to Portland last year). His band, Magic Worm, features Ricci and Ivy Ross playing with a weird worm that that connects their heads. Not much else you can say about that.

Blessed Coast are taking their scene to another venue spinning at Plan B on Thursday nights. They’ll be joined after 11 p.m. by DJ Clint Westwood (who will be up at Poppe’s from 9-11). Gotta love the Blessed Coast cats, they’re not effin’ around.

This month, WhAAM is hosting a Girl’s Music Workshop on Feb. 13. (You can read about it on page 19.) I love that there are more women playing music in town and those women are trying to get even more women going. Can be kind of a dude fest in the music scene, so it’s great to see some balance.

Incidentally, WhAAM has a new PA that’s got some volume. Each year, it just gets better and better.

Visqueen and So Adult played a fantastic show at Boundary Bay in January. I can’t say enough great things about that place they always support local music and local organizations. I’ve been told that the shows previous to Visqueen haven’t been well attended and are in danger of stopping so, please, go to the late night shows whenever they’re around. The next one is on Feb. 19th and features none other than the wonderful Pan Pan as well as Portland’s Talkdemonic. All proceeds go to the Haiti relief effort.

One of my very favorite events, Winter Commission, is taking place Feb. 20 at the American Museum of Radio and Electricity. While everything is still coming together, I can tell you the list of artists is staggering, simply staggering.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Bucketz reminded me that it’s been five years since Reece passed away suddenly. I can’t believe it’s been five years already, just seems like it was yesterday. So, on Feb. 5, if you can’t make it down for a special show at Plan B, just take a second and say a little prayer or send a good thought his way. We’ve lost too many people in the last five years, here’s hoping to less of that over the next five years.

Wanted to make a plug for our friend Hollie Huthman who has her photographs hanging up at the Nightlight! Hollie is a wonderful photographer who captures the Bellingham music scene with great skill so be sure to check out the goods!

Finally, Bob Ridgley (also known as Binary Bob) is going to be honored in a very special way during the Olympics. Back in 1989, Bob and a bunch of snowboarder friends filmed Mount Baker Hardcore (MBHC) one of the first independent snowboarding films ever produced. The movie shined a new light on snowboarding, taking it from a fringe sport and beginning its revolution into the mainstream all the while spawning countless independent snowboard videos. (Mount Baker was the center of the universe for snowboarders). During the Olympics, the movie will be part of a snowboard timeline display at the Boardshop in Vancouver (the hub of Vancouver’s snowboarding) put together by world-renowned photographer Trevor Graves. This is an incredible accolade for Bob, who deserves a lot of credit for not only highlighting early snowboard culture, but consistently being a fantastic audio engineer and filmmaker (he’s currently working on a project called “Faces of Change,” A Civil Rights-era project that will be released this spring). Bob, thanks for all you’ve done, congrats! (You can read more about Bob and MBHC on page 38).

Well, that’s about it for now, see you next month, when we celebrate What’s Up!’s 12th birthday! Thanks for all your support!

-Brent Cole

January 2010 Cover by Bradley Lockhart

"Painted Backs" by Shelly Browder for "supporting artistry through community"

Well hello, there, boys and girls. Happy New Year! How are you this year? I’ve gotta say, aside from the birth of my darling Ruby, 2009 was a challenging one. So we’re looking forward to a new year and welcome 2010.

And to start the year off we launched a new look to What’s Up! Magazine. Not many folks know this, but my initial idea for the magazine (during its conception) was to publish in a tabloid format. At the time, though, it didn’t work out, so we went with something different. Almost 12 years later, I’m very, very excited to have the new look, it’s what it was supposed to be in the first place.

We are not doing a massive overhaul of the mag’s feel we love the magazine, just needed to implement it into a tabloid feel. This change is more affordable for us (which helps keep us in business!) and allows us to publish more content! This issue, for example, we added the feature “Off Beat,” which looks at a news story that may be of interest to music lovers, as well as “What We’re Listening to,” a rundown of some of the great music (from all over the globe) that local folks are listening to.

With this issue, we had some things pop up after the holidays that kept us from being able to include everything we’d have liked to (or allow us to get out on time – we apologize for the delay). But stay tuned over the next few months, as we’ll be adding and expanding our music content, including more columns and special features, diversifying and providing you with lots more local goodies to read. I would tell ya about them, but then it wouldn’t be a surprise.

In other What’s Up! news, it’s that time again! The 9th Annual What’s Up! Awards Show is being held on Saturday, Jan. 30 at the Wild Buffalo and will feature Femme Uke, Pan Pan, Dog Shredder, Acorn Project and the All Nighters along with sets by the Dirty Bird Cabaret. Poops will again MC the night, while DJ Postal will be spinning at the breaks. Plus, all the glorious awards, which will be amazing. there are some incredible surprises this year. Cost is five bucks. FIVE BUCKS! Ya know, I really can’t believe the show is in its ninth year blows my mind.

And don’t forget, on the night before the awards show we’re going to host the 2nd Annual Pre-Awards Show at the Viking Union and Underground Coffeehouse. Things will kick off at the UCH with Council of Lions and Bellingham Free Choir, then followed at the Viking Union by Rooftops, Sugar Sugar Sugar, Yogoman Burning Band and Idiot Pilot. The UCH show will be free, however the Viking Union show will cost $7 for general admission and $6 for students with a WWU ID.

Over the two nights, you’ve got 11 of the best bands in town, all playing music for your listening pleasure. Come check it out, should be a hell of a weekend! Thanks to everyone involved and supporting the show.

We’d like to welcome aboard the contributions of photographer Matthew Curtis. He’s begun taking photos for the magazine, including this month’s Pan Pan and Jessica Lohafer are courtesy of Matt.

Finally, before we get to the music, we have one last bit of news… What’s Up! is again working to update the local band database. Yeah, I know I’ve said this before, but this time around we have someone specifically working on it. And this someone is not just an overworked dad (me) trying to fit in the time. So, if yer in a band, send over your information (band name, members, contacts, etc.) to editor@whatsup-magazine or send us a message via MySpace or Facebook.

COMINGS AND GOINGS

The big news, of course, is the opening of the Plan B Saloon in the old Factory space. Opened up by Bucketz and crew, they kicked things off with epic show on New Year’s Eve with the Cheeps, Sugar Sugar Sugar, The All Nighters and Boss Rhino. They are working hard to get the month booked up, and one thing that is for sure (if early reports are accurate) is that Wednesday evening open mic is damn good. You can look for the club to be similar to the Rogue, but better, because it’ll also mix some of the Factory vibe (R.I.P). I expect this to be an incredible addition to the local music scene. Go and down and support them. We wish you the best you guys!

Speaking of the Cheeps, they are a band again. As Lupe from Sugar Sugar Sugar said to me, “thank f@#!ng God.” Agreed.

Chris Gusta (aka Deer Seeking Headlight) has teamed up with Bill Anker from the Whiskey Wailers as well as Jess Manley and AJ formerly of Octagon Control to make Scum Eating. They played their first show in early December and will hopefully be playing live more in the upcoming months. And hopefully changing their name, because Scum Eating freaks me out.

I’ve really been digging Dylan Morrison lately. He’s another guy that’s been a bit under the radar, but is very cool. Good folky stuff, check him out if you’ve got the chance. He left town for awhile, but is back in the fold.

Queen Amena are either on a long hiatus or have called it a day. I got the impression it was just a long hiatus, but ya never know with these things.

Another band that’s flying under the radar a bit is Hoot Hoot, featuring Alex Niedzialkowski from Cumulus as well as Sonja Prins and Cora Glass. They haven’t played a whole bunch, but I really love the couple songs on their MySpace site.

GOOD TIMES

Micah Knapp, one of the many badass movie guys in town, has a couple projects in the works. First off is a little movie called Fantastic Stan Goes to Hell, which includes none other than David Stray Ney playing the devil (don’t say anything), as well as a cool documentary on the Cliff House, which he’s been working on for a couple of years. There’s also rumors of a video for Jenni Potts. Gotta love a busy movie man.

I rarely, rarely ever talk about shows happening in Seattle, but there’s a fantastic band playing on Jan. 24 called White Denim. They’re from Austin and one of the best bands I’ve heard in the last decade. They’ve got nothing to do with Bellingham (other than we hope they’ll swing through our neck of the woods on their next tour), but thought I should give ya’ll a heads up anyhow.

RECORDS AND RELEASES

Four Players are releasing their debut CD, Four Score, with a pair of CD release shows on Saturday, Jan. 16 at Cap’s with guests Go Slowpoke, and also on Sunday, Jan. 17 at 5 p.m. at Everyday Music. The band includes members of the Roaming Moanies as well as Shea from the Sweaty Sweaters. Very cool music from a band that’s floated under the radar a bit.

Months ago, I mentioned in le Beat how much I love the Holy Tailfeathers. Well, the four-piece have finally released their debut CD (which I’ve had a version of for a while) and I’m ready for the town to fall in love with it as well. I’ve heard from more people that think they are, by far, the most underappreciated band in town, and I couldn’t agree more. They are absolutely fantastic, an incredible band with a fantastic vocalist in Leatherpants. It’s time you all discovered them.

The boys in Caparza have a new demo out and some shows coming up, so check ‘em out. Lance and the boys like to rock… err… RAWK (wow, I went old school on that one).

The Low Country Thieves have finished up their latest, The Nickajack EP. The bands been working on the album off and on for six months, so they’re excited it’s finally all wrapped up. You can buy the disc at CD Baby or at one of their local shows.

Vantage have just returned from a sweet little tour down to San Diego and back up to Bellingham, hitting some good hot spots in between. You can read more about how it went in this month’s Tales From the Road (page 33). This month, they’ll be at Two Sticks, the studio owned by Jason McGerr of Death Cab for Cutie fame (who, incidentally, has moved back to town) recording with Jackson Long. Looking forward to hearing the boys after they’ve been Jacksoned.

Another band at Two Sticks is the Love Lights, who are taking their first real break from playing live shows while they record their new album. No idea on when the disc will be released, but they’ll also be Jacksoned, so we’re sure it’ll sound good.

The Lumpkins, one of Bellingham’s gifts to country music, is just about done with their debut recording, Another Wasted Day. I’ve been told by head Lumpkin, David Stray Ney, that the band is incredibly excited how the recordings turned out. Initially the disc will be released on digital format only, then followed by 12″ vinyl. Good stuff. Also look for a story on them in the February issue of What’s Up!

Even though he’s got an album just out, Daniel Anderson is already working again on the new Ghost and the Grace CD… while he’s also working on the new Idiot Pilot CD. Both of which, from what he’s said to me, are above and beyond anything he’s ever done. Resident genius? Possibly. Hell, I’d give it a damn, damn good chance.

Yogoman Burning Band are working on a February tour, with details to be out soon. Jordan has also been down in Killion Sound in LA working on finishing up the new album. Fantastic.

Baltic Cousins have recently been in the studio, recording with John Brooks from Brunette Sweat. You can look for a story on the band next month in this very magazine. Ya know why? ‘Cuz they are GOOOOOOOOODDDD.

ON THE ROAD

Hitting the road in the spring is Sugar Sugar Sugar, who are playing a huge tour across much of the country. Obviously, ya know how much I absolutely love this band, they are the real deal and incredibly special. I’m looking forward to them spreading the Sugar gospel all over the U.S.!

Looks like Candysound will be hitting the road again this spring, down to California and back. No word on exact dates, but any time these guys hit the road, good things happen. They also recently went into the studio, though no official word from the band as to what happened with those recordings.

SHOWS

A couple of local bands are playing this year’s Sound Off! 2010 at the EMP Skychurch on Feb. 13. Candysound along with Pan Pan and Cozy Kitchen will be playing this huge show. Good luck!

On Jan. 21, Boogie Universal will make their triumphant return with a show at the Wild Buffalo. The Official Pre-Party and Fundraiser will include sets by Michael Manahan and Rob Noble as well as special guests. The show is a precursor to the big event, which will happen on Feb. 27 at the Majestic Hall and include Super Geek League, March Fourth Marching Band and over 100 performers. This will be one of the most incredible shows this town has ever scene!

The Winter Commission is getting organized for another event in the second week of February. Honestly, I don’t know much more than that but the news of another Winter Commission is really exciting.

Finally, as many of you know, a terrible tragedy stemming from domestic violence took place in the Kendall area. If you are in a domestic violence situation, please seek help. There are many, many different organizations that are out there to help including Womencare Shelter and Domestic Violence Services (734-3438) and Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services (715-1563). For help with alcohol abuse, seek out your local chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous for resources and help. Sadly, since 2003, I have known someone who has passed because of a situation stemming from alcohol or drugs. I’m not trying to end the column on a somber note, I just want to urge you to stay safe. Life, no matter how painful it may sometimes get, is absolutely worth living. If you need help, please seek it out, tell someone you love.

Thanks for all of your support in 2009, and we wish you a happy, healthy 2010 full of good times. See you next issue.

-Brent Cole
editor@whatsup-magazine.com

December 2009 Cover by “Mighty” Mitch Vega

Aaaah, December, my favorite month of the year. It’s cold as hell outside, we all get to celebrate the holidays and vote on the What’s Up! Awards nothing but good stuff.

As always, we’ll touch on a little What’s Up! before the music scene goods. The big news of the month is the What’s Up! awards ballots are ready to go! Visit our online ballot and vote for your favorite album, live band, new band as well as 11 other categories. (Remember, we can tell if you are ballot stuffing.) It’s a new system this year, and many thanks go to Django, owner of Seatthole and Merch Bot, who created the site and has been extremely patient with this process. He’s a great asset to the community and I’m just damn glad he’s on my side. Check him out for your shirts and stickers needs and if you want to give a damn good Christmas gift, go to Merch Bot!

This year, there will be not one, but two pre-awards shows, both on Friday, Jan. 29 the first at the Underground Coffeehouse with Council of Lions and the Bellingham Free Choir followed by a huge show at the Viking Union. Four of the best local bands… who, you might ask? Well… that’d ruin the surprise! Keep checking to the What’s Up! website, facebook and myspace pages for the big announcement.

Then, the next night, Saturday, Jan. 30, we’ll hold the 9th Annual What’s Up! Awards Show at the Wild Buffalo. Performing bands include Femme Uke, Pan Pan, The All Nighters, Dog Shredder, Acorn Project, GNS and the Reparations, The Dirty Bird Cabaret, DJ Postal and more! And once again, the night will be hosted by the beautiful and infinitely sexy Poops. It’s looking like the night will be the biggest and most extravagant awards show to date. Get there early, because things will be wild right from the get go gotta trust me on this one.

As if that wasn’t enough, the poster for the 9th Annual What’s Up! Awards Show will be created by Nat Damm, drummer of Akimbo and designer extraordinaire, who has done posters for bands such as Death Cab For Cutie and KISS, and events like Missoula’s TotalFest, just to name two. Nat has been gracious enough to lend his talents to What’s Up! It will be epic.

While we look forward to bringing you the Award Show weekend, it’s not the only big news for the magazine. Next month, we’re going to make a major, major format change one that has been in the works for awhile, something we are unbelievably excited about. What’s Up! Magazine will move away from the smaller format to what’s known as a “tabloid” format, like The Stranger, for example, and Seattle’s old music publication The Rocket. There are several reasons we’ve decided to make this format change. First and foremost, it’s a style of publication that I love and have flirted with doing for many years (since the mag’s inception, really), and will make it possible for us to include more content. We’ll bring you all the current music content and more, as well as other entertainment features. This move also makes more economic sense in the long run. It’s kinda of a win-win-win situation. Look for the new issue to hit the stands the first week of January, as well as new shirts and stickers.

Finally, What’s Up! has teamed up with Black Market Boutique for a cool series we’re calling Supporting Artistry Through Community. Each month, we’ll publish a piece of original art from a local artist in an effort to showcase some of the incredible talent in town. For more information, check out page 35 for guidelines and submissions. We look forward to seeing what ya’ll create!

COMINGS AND GOINGS

The Rogue, a venue that has been the breeding ground for the local music scene for several years, will no longer be putting on live music. Due to changes to laws about sprinkler systems in establishments, Rogue decided to stop the music because the cost to fix or replace the system was far more than the bar could endure. The owner of the Rogue, Steve Duthie, has been a great asset to the music scene and we all owe him a debt of gratitude. The booker and soundman, Bucketz, also deserves an unbelievable amount of credit for his devotion to the music scene.

And now for some good news. Bucketz, along with four partners, will be opening the Plan B Saloon at the old Factory space on State Street. There are still several hoops they need to jump through before everything is official, but look for a potential opening in early 2010.

Doug Krebs, an old friend of mine and others, has made his way back to town after stops in Cincinnati, Portland and New Orleans. Doug was the old sound guy at the 3B, had a great studio and played in the Lago Volunteers (along with Eli from Black Breath). He’s back in town, doing some mastering, filling in at the Nightlight and playing music again this time in a new band called Antenna Eleven with members of the Sugar High Mustangs.

While it’s great Doug is back in town, a couple long time Bellingham residents are moving on. DJ Velveteen and Paul Chandler will be moving to the Bay Area. We’ll miss you guys you’ve been incredible contributors to the scene.

The Cheeps are a band again! One of the most epic bands to ever reside in Bellingham were so inspired by their Halloween show that they’ve decided to reform. That’s the good news. Bad news is half the band still lives in Leavenworth so don’t expect a ton of shows.

A band to watch in 2010 is Four Players, which features Shea from Sweaty Sweaters and Karate Kitchen. He’s joined by John Everett Allis, Karen Kunkel and Nathan Oglseby in what they call “freaky folk opera.” I just call it damn, damn good.

RECORDS AND RELEASES

Candysound has just released a new EP. Singer Teo Crider (in my estimations) is one of the coolest singers in the scene right now. Something about his vocals just blows me away.

The Love Lights will be recording with Jackson Long at Two Sticks in January. It’ll be the first badass studio time for the band, so expect the quality to jump from an already amazing level. No word on when the new album will be out, but hopefully they’ll get it to me, and the last one. (Rob… I’m looking in your direction).

Sexy Sexy Robert Blake is back in town this month playing a weekly Monday night gig at the Green Frog Acoustic Tavern. Ya know how much I respect Robert and I’m not going to lie I’m glad he’s in town instead of being out on the road. The quality of music in this town goes up a notch when he’s playing live in town.

WELL WISHES

Once again, I’d like to plug Carnelian Agency, a huge supporter of the magazine and a great resource for this town. Their posters are top notch and the best prices around (they are the only place we go to for posters including those for the benefits last month) and they’re the best deal you’ll find for short run CDs. Their services are affordable, and it’s easy to work with this good, local company. So, bands, do the best thing for you and a cool company, go through Carnelian. All you have to do is e-mail them your poster and they’ll turn it around that day! For more info, e-mail Teri Cruzan at tericruzan@carnelianagency.com.

Congrats to Steeb Russell and Libby Chenault on the arrival of beautiful little Franklin Sparrow, who entered the world on Dec. 2 at 3:20 a.m. We’re so happy for you guys. Can’t wait to meet you little man!

Happy holidays!

–Brent