09/06: Hello out there!
Hey Readers!
It's me Nick again. I'm watching Julie and Julia. Which is a surprisingly good movie! I had my reservations but I'm very much enjoying it! Check it out if you need a lazy Sunday afternoon movie!
Onto the music.
I've been super busy with all sorts of things. I've been playing with Kim Archer all sorts of places, I've been jamming with the JNC Trio which is going great! And I'm playing tonight in Seattle. Any readers want to come out to Lucid tonight at 830!! And of course like always I'm "working" on my album. Except this time I'm really working on it. HA. So lets check in with the other guys eh?
Raymond Hayden
Well, with my health on the mend, life could not be better. I have been in pain for the last eight months, so I really don't know how to act? Phew...it is nice....Now, I'm able to spend time rehearsing with Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home and put time into my label's roster. So much to do and so little time to do it in... With the new acts, Kim Archer, Jimmy Nelson, Dashboard Mary's, Sevens Revenge...and possibly one more...well, you can imagine, it takes time and patience. I'm lucky to have such a great family...you know them as Maurice the Fish Records.
As far as my songwriting goes, Nick Sandy and I have written a few new songs as of late and we now have what I believe is a complete repertoire of music for our up and coming album, BREATHE. The newest song, "You Will Find Me," is a collaboration with music from me and lyrics and meldoy from Nick Sandy....it ties in my old style of Pink Floyd driven originals with some of the newer originals I've written that are sounding more like, yes really, Maroon 5. I believe we'll begin pre-production on this album in about a month or so. Looking at a possible late Fall release...don't want to rush it. I want this album to speak to the masses and stand out as innovative, -vs- just another cookie cutter or mediocre album by a independent artist. We want to create a wave with this album...
Other than that, I've been giving lessons to a friend and she has been doing wonderful. Sometimes it is so nice to get back to basics...what better way to do that than teach the basics....music theory, ear training, modology, etc...
Our gig schedule has really been picking up and I couldn't be happier about that. Until next time my friends....
Rikk Beatty
Whats happenin folks?!?!?!? Rikk here from the Rikk Beatty Band. Well allot has been going on here. We have had quite a few successfull shows lately and have had some exciting things happen for the band. First off, Chris got hooked up with D Drums and is now endorsing them. I got a new endorsement through Brace Audio for their INCREDIBLE wireless systems!!!! These things are just amazing! We started recording the new album and now have ALL the drum tracks recorded for it!! Recording will resume in July because June is going to be CRAZY..... I will be gone for basically 3 weeks to Arizona, Nashville, and Indianna doing guitar clinics for Digitech as well as Summer NAMM and the big benefit show at the Rutledge Live Music Venue in downtown Nashville.
Well I guess thats it for now. Keep rockin!
-Rikk
Danielle Egnew
Hey everybody!! HAPPY SUMMER!!! It’s been awhile since I’ve blogged, and Nick has been really patient with me, so I thought I’d take a break before I start mixing again, and toss you a note to let you know what I’m up to.
This summer is crazy busy!! I usually try and put something uplifting in my blogs, lol, but this one may be a little more “brass tacks”, but that doesn’t mean I love ya any less ;)! In fact, I’m down to the wire -- I’ve got three days to completely finish the mixing and mastering on the project I’m about to tell you about, then I’ll be out on the road for nearly a month! So this is just the bullet points for what I’m up to:
MUSIC PROJECTS:
Backseat Bordello
I have been mixing and mastering my and Kristen Coyner’s musical project, Backseat Bordello, and getting ready for a CD release later this summer. It’s a GREAT RECORD!! Check out our website – it’s pretty awesome, and I’m REALLY proud of our music:
http://www.BackseatBordello.com
You may know Kristen as the drummer in Pope Jane. Well, she also is a terrific vocalist, and a great songwriter, and she plays guitar, so this band’s an acoustic duo, an idea she cam up with back in 2008. We recorded this album in 2009, and again in 2010, as she had to take a break to have triplets and I had to take a break to make a movie. BUT – we are back onboard, going full steam ahead, even though to date this is the most strung-out project either one of us has had to work on, lol!
Kristen and I both sing and play guitar on this album, and we both wrote on it, and I am loving the harmonies, so I’m excited to have everybody take a listen! I’m not very happy with the music player on the website – it compresses everything and makes it all garbly, so I may have to get creative, but at least this will give you an idea of what everything sounds like.
Holly Shawver
Also, I’ve been producing Holly Shawver’s upcoming solo CD, along with her. Some of you may know Holly as the bassist in Pope Jane. She’s also an incredibly amazing songwriter and pianist and composer in general – piano was her first instrument – and the stuff she’s recording is really great, with almost a jazz-groove funk to it. People have been listening to it saying, “Wow, that doesn’t sound like Pope Jane at all!” to which Holly responds. “Well, duh, Danielle mostly wrote for Pope Jane!” I’ve been back and forth to Montana to work with Holly as a preliminary planning visit for this summer’s recording, so I’m having a blast with this material that is so different. It’s a great canvass to work on as a producer. I’ll be spending nearly a month back in Montana working hard everyday with Holly and the musicians contributing to her album (I’m singing backing vocals and playing rhythm electric guitar in addition to my producer duties, thankya very much!), and mixing and mastering at the brand new recording studio that she and her husband just bought – Hot Momma Studios -- so I’m looking forward to that, and working with their engineer, Scott.( I’m really lucky to have an understanding spouse who also works in entertainment!! But that’s all part of the entertainment business – when you get work, you go, and the same rules apply for her, too.)
FILM:
My paranormal documentary Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting has been getting rave reviews!! Everyone from writer Matt Nagle at the Tacoma Weekly to Hollywood Today calling the film “The Real-Life Paranormal Activity” and an article on CNN’s website calling it “a hit”, the news of the film continues to grow and grow every month. It’s pretty amazing. The feedback I’m getting from people who follow the paranormal, and even those who don’t, is pretty intense. This film has made “paranormal believers” out of many people, and though its intention was to simply document the home’s history and activity, that documentation speaks for itself.
Check out some of those reviews on the film’s website:
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com/press
I continue to be a guest on many paranormal radio shows, as the director / writer of the film (and of course, I was in it ), and that’s a blast. You can catch many of those here on the film website, to:
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com/news
Hey, you can even order your very own DVD, easily online, through paypal, and get it shipped right to your own front door! (And yes, I will even sign it if you make a note of it in the order, or send me an email letting me know you’d like that done ;)!!
The film is two and a half hours worth of great content, plus over 20 minutes of bonus features, so if you love the paranormal, you can’t go wrong. Plus, it includes music from not only myself but from Maurice The Fish Records artist and CEO Raymond Hayden, who was also in the film!
If you haven’t had a chance to check out the film yet, you can visit the website and see the trailer, read about the film – all of the above is here:
http://www.MontgomeryHouseHaunting.com
RADIO:
Haunted Playground
Killer talk radio host extraordinaire Sheena Metal and I continue to crank out great radio shows regarding all things paranormal, and sometimes just absurd, every Tuesday on LA Talk Radio with our show, Haunted Playground. We’ve had on great guests from all walks of the paranormal world, like Barry Fitzgerald from “Ghost Hunters International” to Psychic Chip Coffey from “Psychic Kids”, plus an array of celebrities that like to come on and give us their paranormal stories. This would include actress Susan Olson (That’s Cindy Brady to most of us ) talking about how her grandmother was an accused person during the Salem with trials! So you never know who’s going to be talking about what on the show!
You can tune in every Tuesday from 3-5pm PST on LA Talk Radio, Channel two, to listen live (and call in live – 818-602-4929), or check out ANY of the show archives 24/7 either on our website, or at the LA Talk Radio Haunted Playground page (at the very bottom past our bios)
http://www.latalkradio.com/Haunted.php
The Show’s Website and archive page: http://www.hauntedplayground.com/guests.htm
The Sheena Metal Experience
Of course I still do regular appearances on Sheena’s daily talk show as “The Resident Psychic” – her show airs Mon-Fri, 5-7pm PST on LA Talk Radio (click on Channel Two to listen live) and call in live – 818-602-4929). Lately, I’ve been on as a pop music culture commentator more than a Psychic, since we started Haunted Playground, but it’s a lot of fun!
All of the show archives are available 24/7 either on iTunes, or on the LA Talk Radio website – just scroll down below her bio to see who guests are, and play or download and show! In fact, some of our very own Maurice The Fish Records artists have recently been guests on Sheena’s show – Kim Archer and Rick Beatty -- and they were both fantastic!
Kim’s show: http://www.latalkradio.com/images/Sheena-040910.mp3
Rikk’s show: http://www.latalkradio.com/images/Sheena-040710.mp3
All archives: http://www.latalkradio.com/Sheena.php
Show Website and Guest Page: http://www.sheenametalexperience.com/guesthall.htm
JOURNALISM:
I’ve been asked to be a contributing editor for Music Industry Newswire – it’s like an AP for professional music industry news. I’ve written some great articles up there ranging from how to sing to news about the label to my thoughts on what I like to call “the Taylor Swift phenomenon”, and if you go to www.MusicIndustryNewswire.com and search my name, there’s plenty to read!
I’ve also been asked to be a contributing writer for a very popular horror and paranormal blog – a spin-off of the popular Radio show – The League of Extraordinary Women of Paranormal and Horror.
http://www.theleagueofextraordinarywomenofparanormalandhorror.com/
It’s a fantastic community of accomplished women in the paranormal fields, all pitching in and giving their two cents! My schedule has been so wacked out that I haven’t had a chance yet to write something, but I am really honored, and looking forward to contributing my thoughts on the subject of all things scary and unknown !
LIVE SHOWS:
I have been in the studio doing so much prep work that I haven’t really had the opportunity to play many live shows, but I did play three terrific shows this year – one on my birthday on The Queen Mary in Long Beach, with my Whiskey Roadshow Band. Our one and only King Fish Raymond Hayden was present in the bill and did a TERRIFIC set to open the show. Thanks to Ray for coming down to LA form the Northwest, hanging out, spending a wonderful birthday with me. It was great to have him and he was a huge crowd hit! Plus we all migrated to a lower deck to another bar as the night wore on, and we all took shots at playing one of Liberace’s former grand pianos which is permanently docked at the Starboard Lounge. Ray was a particular hit, and at one point, there was quite an audience gathered around listening. No surprise there!
The other two shows were great, too – both Maurice The Fish showcases, one at The Tempest in Tacoma, WA, for which our own musical mogul Nick Sandy opened up with a fantastic acoustic performance -- and then I played a solo set, and was later joined by rockstar Nick and another label Rockstar, Dave Sawyer on guitar, for the rest of the night, and we brought the house down! Even my sister jumped up and sang a song with us, and she was terrific! Of course, Nick and Dave and I just sort of dinked around and jammed the night before while hanging out, and that was really all the “rehearsal” that was needed – these guys are amazing pros, and it shows. And yes I mean to rhyme !
I hope to have more live shows this summer, because I love them, and it’s the “fun part” -- but it’s hard with all the production coming out. SO much planning is involved with CD releases -- album covers, artwork, copyrighting, organizing CD pressings – a lot goes into it. Someday they’ll invent a magic wand to just waive around the music and a CD will appear. That will rock. At that point I’ll have a margarita, grab my guitar, and just make music while the “magic wand” handles all the particulars !
…Well, that’s all the news for now -- I’m missing some stuff, but those are the highlights of the last few months off the top of my head! I hope you are all having an amazing spring / summer, and that you feel the support and confidence to author every dream you’ve ever had. As I like to say – Confidence isn’t SHOWING what you can do. Confidence is KNOWING what you can do. Xoxo - Danielle
That's it for now guys! I hope everyone is enjoying the mild tiny amount of sun we've been getting these past few days! Keep your ears open to the music!
It's me Nick again. I'm watching Julie and Julia. Which is a surprisingly good movie! I had my reservations but I'm very much enjoying it! Check it out if you need a lazy Sunday afternoon movie!
Onto the music.
I've been super busy with all sorts of things. I've been playing with Kim Archer all sorts of places, I've been jamming with the JNC Trio which is going great! And I'm playing tonight in Seattle. Any readers want to come out to Lucid tonight at 830!! And of course like always I'm "working" on my album. Except this time I'm really working on it. HA. So lets check in with the other guys eh?
Raymond Hayden
Well, with my health on the mend, life could not be better. I have been in pain for the last eight months, so I really don't know how to act? Phew...it is nice....Now, I'm able to spend time rehearsing with Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home and put time into my label's roster. So much to do and so little time to do it in... With the new acts, Kim Archer, Jimmy Nelson, Dashboard Mary's, Sevens Revenge...and possibly one more...well, you can imagine, it takes time and patience. I'm lucky to have such a great family...you know them as Maurice the Fish Records.
As far as my songwriting goes, Nick Sandy and I have written a few new songs as of late and we now have what I believe is a complete repertoire of music for our up and coming album, BREATHE. The newest song, "You Will Find Me," is a collaboration with music from me and lyrics and meldoy from Nick Sandy....it ties in my old style of Pink Floyd driven originals with some of the newer originals I've written that are sounding more like, yes really, Maroon 5. I believe we'll begin pre-production on this album in about a month or so. Looking at a possible late Fall release...don't want to rush it. I want this album to speak to the masses and stand out as innovative, -vs- just another cookie cutter or mediocre album by a independent artist. We want to create a wave with this album...
Other than that, I've been giving lessons to a friend and she has been doing wonderful. Sometimes it is so nice to get back to basics...what better way to do that than teach the basics....music theory, ear training, modology, etc...
Our gig schedule has really been picking up and I couldn't be happier about that. Until next time my friends....
Rikk Beatty
Whats happenin folks?!?!?!? Rikk here from the Rikk Beatty Band. Well allot has been going on here. We have had quite a few successfull shows lately and have had some exciting things happen for the band. First off, Chris got hooked up with D Drums and is now endorsing them. I got a new endorsement through Brace Audio for their INCREDIBLE wireless systems!!!! These things are just amazing! We started recording the new album and now have ALL the drum tracks recorded for it!! Recording will resume in July because June is going to be CRAZY..... I will be gone for basically 3 weeks to Arizona, Nashville, and Indianna doing guitar clinics for Digitech as well as Summer NAMM and the big benefit show at the Rutledge Live Music Venue in downtown Nashville.
Well I guess thats it for now. Keep rockin!
-Rikk
Danielle Egnew
Hey everybody!! HAPPY SUMMER!!! It’s been awhile since I’ve blogged, and Nick has been really patient with me, so I thought I’d take a break before I start mixing again, and toss you a note to let you know what I’m up to.
This summer is crazy busy!! I usually try and put something uplifting in my blogs, lol, but this one may be a little more “brass tacks”, but that doesn’t mean I love ya any less ;)! In fact, I’m down to the wire -- I’ve got three days to completely finish the mixing and mastering on the project I’m about to tell you about, then I’ll be out on the road for nearly a month! So this is just the bullet points for what I’m up to:
MUSIC PROJECTS:
Backseat Bordello
I have been mixing and mastering my and Kristen Coyner’s musical project, Backseat Bordello, and getting ready for a CD release later this summer. It’s a GREAT RECORD!! Check out our website – it’s pretty awesome, and I’m REALLY proud of our music:
http://www.BackseatBordello.com
You may know Kristen as the drummer in Pope Jane. Well, she also is a terrific vocalist, and a great songwriter, and she plays guitar, so this band’s an acoustic duo, an idea she cam up with back in 2008. We recorded this album in 2009, and again in 2010, as she had to take a break to have triplets and I had to take a break to make a movie. BUT – we are back onboard, going full steam ahead, even though to date this is the most strung-out project either one of us has had to work on, lol!
Kristen and I both sing and play guitar on this album, and we both wrote on it, and I am loving the harmonies, so I’m excited to have everybody take a listen! I’m not very happy with the music player on the website – it compresses everything and makes it all garbly, so I may have to get creative, but at least this will give you an idea of what everything sounds like.
Holly Shawver
Also, I’ve been producing Holly Shawver’s upcoming solo CD, along with her. Some of you may know Holly as the bassist in Pope Jane. She’s also an incredibly amazing songwriter and pianist and composer in general – piano was her first instrument – and the stuff she’s recording is really great, with almost a jazz-groove funk to it. People have been listening to it saying, “Wow, that doesn’t sound like Pope Jane at all!” to which Holly responds. “Well, duh, Danielle mostly wrote for Pope Jane!” I’ve been back and forth to Montana to work with Holly as a preliminary planning visit for this summer’s recording, so I’m having a blast with this material that is so different. It’s a great canvass to work on as a producer. I’ll be spending nearly a month back in Montana working hard everyday with Holly and the musicians contributing to her album (I’m singing backing vocals and playing rhythm electric guitar in addition to my producer duties, thankya very much!), and mixing and mastering at the brand new recording studio that she and her husband just bought – Hot Momma Studios -- so I’m looking forward to that, and working with their engineer, Scott.( I’m really lucky to have an understanding spouse who also works in entertainment!! But that’s all part of the entertainment business – when you get work, you go, and the same rules apply for her, too.)
FILM:
My paranormal documentary Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting has been getting rave reviews!! Everyone from writer Matt Nagle at the Tacoma Weekly to Hollywood Today calling the film “The Real-Life Paranormal Activity” and an article on CNN’s website calling it “a hit”, the news of the film continues to grow and grow every month. It’s pretty amazing. The feedback I’m getting from people who follow the paranormal, and even those who don’t, is pretty intense. This film has made “paranormal believers” out of many people, and though its intention was to simply document the home’s history and activity, that documentation speaks for itself.
Check out some of those reviews on the film’s website:
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com/press
I continue to be a guest on many paranormal radio shows, as the director / writer of the film (and of course, I was in it ), and that’s a blast. You can catch many of those here on the film website, to:
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com/news
Hey, you can even order your very own DVD, easily online, through paypal, and get it shipped right to your own front door! (And yes, I will even sign it if you make a note of it in the order, or send me an email letting me know you’d like that done ;)!!
The film is two and a half hours worth of great content, plus over 20 minutes of bonus features, so if you love the paranormal, you can’t go wrong. Plus, it includes music from not only myself but from Maurice The Fish Records artist and CEO Raymond Hayden, who was also in the film!
If you haven’t had a chance to check out the film yet, you can visit the website and see the trailer, read about the film – all of the above is here:
http://www.MontgomeryHouseHaunting.com
RADIO:
Haunted Playground
Killer talk radio host extraordinaire Sheena Metal and I continue to crank out great radio shows regarding all things paranormal, and sometimes just absurd, every Tuesday on LA Talk Radio with our show, Haunted Playground. We’ve had on great guests from all walks of the paranormal world, like Barry Fitzgerald from “Ghost Hunters International” to Psychic Chip Coffey from “Psychic Kids”, plus an array of celebrities that like to come on and give us their paranormal stories. This would include actress Susan Olson (That’s Cindy Brady to most of us ) talking about how her grandmother was an accused person during the Salem with trials! So you never know who’s going to be talking about what on the show!
You can tune in every Tuesday from 3-5pm PST on LA Talk Radio, Channel two, to listen live (and call in live – 818-602-4929), or check out ANY of the show archives 24/7 either on our website, or at the LA Talk Radio Haunted Playground page (at the very bottom past our bios)
http://www.latalkradio.com/Haunted.php
The Show’s Website and archive page: http://www.hauntedplayground.com/guests.htm
The Sheena Metal Experience
Of course I still do regular appearances on Sheena’s daily talk show as “The Resident Psychic” – her show airs Mon-Fri, 5-7pm PST on LA Talk Radio (click on Channel Two to listen live) and call in live – 818-602-4929). Lately, I’ve been on as a pop music culture commentator more than a Psychic, since we started Haunted Playground, but it’s a lot of fun!
All of the show archives are available 24/7 either on iTunes, or on the LA Talk Radio website – just scroll down below her bio to see who guests are, and play or download and show! In fact, some of our very own Maurice The Fish Records artists have recently been guests on Sheena’s show – Kim Archer and Rick Beatty -- and they were both fantastic!
Kim’s show: http://www.latalkradio.com/images/Sheena-040910.mp3
Rikk’s show: http://www.latalkradio.com/images/Sheena-040710.mp3
All archives: http://www.latalkradio.com/Sheena.php
Show Website and Guest Page: http://www.sheenametalexperience.com/guesthall.htm
JOURNALISM:
I’ve been asked to be a contributing editor for Music Industry Newswire – it’s like an AP for professional music industry news. I’ve written some great articles up there ranging from how to sing to news about the label to my thoughts on what I like to call “the Taylor Swift phenomenon”, and if you go to www.MusicIndustryNewswire.com and search my name, there’s plenty to read!
I’ve also been asked to be a contributing writer for a very popular horror and paranormal blog – a spin-off of the popular Radio show – The League of Extraordinary Women of Paranormal and Horror.
http://www.theleagueofextraordinarywomenofparanormalandhorror.com/
It’s a fantastic community of accomplished women in the paranormal fields, all pitching in and giving their two cents! My schedule has been so wacked out that I haven’t had a chance yet to write something, but I am really honored, and looking forward to contributing my thoughts on the subject of all things scary and unknown !
LIVE SHOWS:
I have been in the studio doing so much prep work that I haven’t really had the opportunity to play many live shows, but I did play three terrific shows this year – one on my birthday on The Queen Mary in Long Beach, with my Whiskey Roadshow Band. Our one and only King Fish Raymond Hayden was present in the bill and did a TERRIFIC set to open the show. Thanks to Ray for coming down to LA form the Northwest, hanging out, spending a wonderful birthday with me. It was great to have him and he was a huge crowd hit! Plus we all migrated to a lower deck to another bar as the night wore on, and we all took shots at playing one of Liberace’s former grand pianos which is permanently docked at the Starboard Lounge. Ray was a particular hit, and at one point, there was quite an audience gathered around listening. No surprise there!
The other two shows were great, too – both Maurice The Fish showcases, one at The Tempest in Tacoma, WA, for which our own musical mogul Nick Sandy opened up with a fantastic acoustic performance -- and then I played a solo set, and was later joined by rockstar Nick and another label Rockstar, Dave Sawyer on guitar, for the rest of the night, and we brought the house down! Even my sister jumped up and sang a song with us, and she was terrific! Of course, Nick and Dave and I just sort of dinked around and jammed the night before while hanging out, and that was really all the “rehearsal” that was needed – these guys are amazing pros, and it shows. And yes I mean to rhyme !
I hope to have more live shows this summer, because I love them, and it’s the “fun part” -- but it’s hard with all the production coming out. SO much planning is involved with CD releases -- album covers, artwork, copyrighting, organizing CD pressings – a lot goes into it. Someday they’ll invent a magic wand to just waive around the music and a CD will appear. That will rock. At that point I’ll have a margarita, grab my guitar, and just make music while the “magic wand” handles all the particulars !
…Well, that’s all the news for now -- I’m missing some stuff, but those are the highlights of the last few months off the top of my head! I hope you are all having an amazing spring / summer, and that you feel the support and confidence to author every dream you’ve ever had. As I like to say – Confidence isn’t SHOWING what you can do. Confidence is KNOWING what you can do. Xoxo - Danielle
That's it for now guys! I hope everyone is enjoying the mild tiny amount of sun we've been getting these past few days! Keep your ears open to the music!
17/04: We're Back!
Hey readers!
How is everyone doing out there in the world of the internet? This is Nick Sandy bringing the good news straight from our fishbowls to yours! I've been super busy these past few months with a bunch of fun projects that I can't wait to share with you. I've been trying to write some more music and then get back into the studio, for real, and record a short EP. I've also been hanging out with the Amazingly Talented Rikk Beatty. Chad Russell and I have been officially named his road crew which has been a lot of fun and some pretty neat traveling. Also, I started playing with the one and only Kim Archer. Keep yours eyes open for this one cause it's going to be a blast. Lastly, this is the first entry for the JNC Trio! We are geared up and ready for our first performance on May 1st at the FishFood Bank Benefit concert. This is going to be such a great day for all of the MTF Family. Everyone is getting a huge chance to SHINE.
Anyway. Enough about me! Lets check in with the rest of the gang!
Savannah
Hey everyone!
Just a couple more months of school for my third year at PLU and I'll be done for the summer. I can't wait! I'm really looking forward to the time off so I can put more energy into writing new songs and working on my performances I have lined up for the summer. Two upcoming performances for me will be at The FISH Food Bank Benefit Concert May 1st 6pm with all my other fish friends :) and The Tempest Lounge in Tacoma, May 19th at 8pm. As some of you know, my dad lives in Ireland, but he's planning a trip to Seattle in May and will most likely be here for my show at the Tempest on May 19th. This will be the first show he's ever seen me play, so as you might guess....I'm pretty excited about it!! At the end of the summer, August 31st, I will be performing the National Anthem at a Rainier's Baseball Game at 7pm. I'm so thrilled to get the chance to do this! I'm thinking it will be my biggest audience so far! :)
A couple months ago I thought I was going to be recording a few jazz songs with some studio musicians, but timing and funding didn't really work out. Since then, I've decided I really want to start gigging with a jazz trio. I love singing jazz and it would be a nice change up from my usual genre at shows so I've just begun looking for people to start a jazz group with. Eventually, I'm hoping this would lead to recording a jazz album. But as I have just started asking around for instrumentalists...I'm still very in need of instrumentalists. I wouldn't mind if you happened to read this and think....hmmm I know an awesome....(piano, guitar, upright bass, percussionist) that would like to play gigs and record with Savannah!!! Then you should definitely email me at musicofsavannah@gmail.com :) I would appreciate that!
In the mean time, I am a little stressed about finals coming up at school, but am very much enjoying taking photographs, making ceramics, and serving espresso to the fine people of Tacoma in the mornings before class. I'm looking forward to my adventures in music these next few months as I strive to be the best musician and performer I can be.
I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces at the Fish Food Benefit Concert and stay tuned for shows coming up soon! (All performances can be found at the Maurice The Fish Records Facebook Page)
Love to you all,
Savannah
Raymond Hayden
Hmmm....what is Raymond up to these days...just signed Kim Archer to Maurice the Fish Records....working on Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Homes' album Breathe' (song selection / pre-production)...working on Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Homes' LIVE show...working on establishing Maurice the Fish Records as a BRAND with consistent showcases around the Pacific Northwest and soon...California baby! Other than that, just focusing on having fun with music and life.
Eric Montgomery
Hey, Fellow Bottom Feeders, Oh, I mean guppies. While marketing myself as a pianist/vocalist in restaurants, bars, weddings, events,etc, I am currently raising money to duplicate, distribute and market the Piano meditational CD “Welcome River”. I am also adding some meditational pieces to the recording so that it is a longer album. I have been brainstorming with different business/marketing professionals the different avenues to market this recording that was never really intended for market. However, there seems to be an inherent interest in this recording amongst the demographic of pregnant woman and mothers, so pregnancy and birthing centers and their websites are a focus. I have a graphic concept for the cover which actually is a picture of my daughter River that I took on my birthday last summer down at a special spot at the river on my folk’s property. For all you folks that followed my story last year, you understand the significance. I am actually praying for a blessing to come of this experience through this recording. Once I have the system set up for the marketing of this recording, I will be stepping up the completion of tracks for the full band/vocal recordings that have been worked on either in conjunction with Maurice The Fish’s Off the Hook album, BooJu and Eric Joseph Montgomery efforts. I have been jamming, networking with bassist and guitarists down here in the Portland area to add their special touches. Some of the songs being considered for this album are Mirror, You Are My Home, Love, Rocket Man, Superstition, Loving You Now, Imagine, 100 Soul Days, and Sandcastle Days. Hope to see everyone at the Fish Food Bank Fundraiser on May 1st where I’ll be performing a short set. Love Bless!
Ok. So again I just want to remind you guys again that MAY 1ST There is going to be a great big party going on at the FISHFOOD BENEFIT CONCERT! 6-9!!!
Keep your ears open to the music!
How is everyone doing out there in the world of the internet? This is Nick Sandy bringing the good news straight from our fishbowls to yours! I've been super busy these past few months with a bunch of fun projects that I can't wait to share with you. I've been trying to write some more music and then get back into the studio, for real, and record a short EP. I've also been hanging out with the Amazingly Talented Rikk Beatty. Chad Russell and I have been officially named his road crew which has been a lot of fun and some pretty neat traveling. Also, I started playing with the one and only Kim Archer. Keep yours eyes open for this one cause it's going to be a blast. Lastly, this is the first entry for the JNC Trio! We are geared up and ready for our first performance on May 1st at the FishFood Bank Benefit concert. This is going to be such a great day for all of the MTF Family. Everyone is getting a huge chance to SHINE.
Anyway. Enough about me! Lets check in with the rest of the gang!
Savannah
Hey everyone!
Just a couple more months of school for my third year at PLU and I'll be done for the summer. I can't wait! I'm really looking forward to the time off so I can put more energy into writing new songs and working on my performances I have lined up for the summer. Two upcoming performances for me will be at The FISH Food Bank Benefit Concert May 1st 6pm with all my other fish friends :) and The Tempest Lounge in Tacoma, May 19th at 8pm. As some of you know, my dad lives in Ireland, but he's planning a trip to Seattle in May and will most likely be here for my show at the Tempest on May 19th. This will be the first show he's ever seen me play, so as you might guess....I'm pretty excited about it!! At the end of the summer, August 31st, I will be performing the National Anthem at a Rainier's Baseball Game at 7pm. I'm so thrilled to get the chance to do this! I'm thinking it will be my biggest audience so far! :)
A couple months ago I thought I was going to be recording a few jazz songs with some studio musicians, but timing and funding didn't really work out. Since then, I've decided I really want to start gigging with a jazz trio. I love singing jazz and it would be a nice change up from my usual genre at shows so I've just begun looking for people to start a jazz group with. Eventually, I'm hoping this would lead to recording a jazz album. But as I have just started asking around for instrumentalists...I'm still very in need of instrumentalists. I wouldn't mind if you happened to read this and think....hmmm I know an awesome....(piano, guitar, upright bass, percussionist) that would like to play gigs and record with Savannah!!! Then you should definitely email me at musicofsavannah@gmail.com :) I would appreciate that!
In the mean time, I am a little stressed about finals coming up at school, but am very much enjoying taking photographs, making ceramics, and serving espresso to the fine people of Tacoma in the mornings before class. I'm looking forward to my adventures in music these next few months as I strive to be the best musician and performer I can be.
I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces at the Fish Food Benefit Concert and stay tuned for shows coming up soon! (All performances can be found at the Maurice The Fish Records Facebook Page)
Love to you all,
Savannah
Raymond Hayden
Hmmm....what is Raymond up to these days...just signed Kim Archer to Maurice the Fish Records....working on Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Homes' album Breathe' (song selection / pre-production)...working on Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Homes' LIVE show...working on establishing Maurice the Fish Records as a BRAND with consistent showcases around the Pacific Northwest and soon...California baby! Other than that, just focusing on having fun with music and life.
Eric Montgomery
Hey, Fellow Bottom Feeders, Oh, I mean guppies. While marketing myself as a pianist/vocalist in restaurants, bars, weddings, events,etc, I am currently raising money to duplicate, distribute and market the Piano meditational CD “Welcome River”. I am also adding some meditational pieces to the recording so that it is a longer album. I have been brainstorming with different business/marketing professionals the different avenues to market this recording that was never really intended for market. However, there seems to be an inherent interest in this recording amongst the demographic of pregnant woman and mothers, so pregnancy and birthing centers and their websites are a focus. I have a graphic concept for the cover which actually is a picture of my daughter River that I took on my birthday last summer down at a special spot at the river on my folk’s property. For all you folks that followed my story last year, you understand the significance. I am actually praying for a blessing to come of this experience through this recording. Once I have the system set up for the marketing of this recording, I will be stepping up the completion of tracks for the full band/vocal recordings that have been worked on either in conjunction with Maurice The Fish’s Off the Hook album, BooJu and Eric Joseph Montgomery efforts. I have been jamming, networking with bassist and guitarists down here in the Portland area to add their special touches. Some of the songs being considered for this album are Mirror, You Are My Home, Love, Rocket Man, Superstition, Loving You Now, Imagine, 100 Soul Days, and Sandcastle Days. Hope to see everyone at the Fish Food Bank Fundraiser on May 1st where I’ll be performing a short set. Love Bless!
Ok. So again I just want to remind you guys again that MAY 1ST There is going to be a great big party going on at the FISHFOOD BENEFIT CONCERT! 6-9!!!
Keep your ears open to the music!
Hey music enthusiasts!! Want to win a pair of state-of-the-art Sound Isolating Earphones ($549.00 Value!) from SHURE MICROPHONES?? Just donate online, $10.00 or more, to the Fish Food Bank Benefit (sponsored by Maurice The Fish Records) before April 30th, and your name will be put into a drawing to win this *amazing* e...ar gear, sent directly from SHURE! (Those who have already donated $10.00 or more online are automatically eligible, and you don't need to be present to win.) THANK YOU SHURE MICROPHONES! Donate here:
http://www.mauricethefishrecords.net/fishing/
http://www.mauricethefishrecords.net/fishing/
Maurice the Fish Fans and Friends !
So, in an effort to keep you all involved in the life and times of Maurice the Fish the band, we are sponsoring a contest to name an event we have coming up...the particulars:
Show Date: March 6th, 2010
Show Time: 8-11pm
Location: McCormick Woods Golf Course Bar / Lounge
*Submit Ideas: mauricethefishrocks@gmail.com
Deadline for submissions: Monday, January 11th @ 5pm
Prize-4 winning submission: 2 Free Tickets to the Show and an MTF Tshirt
NOTE: Winners to be chosen by MTF's manager and Raymond Hayden.
So, take a break from SEINFELD, LOST, CSI, HOUSE, 24 or whatever you do in your spare time and GET THE IDEAS OUT! We need your help more than ever...our puny little musician brains are all out of ideas....won't you help us fish for an answer? Ha and FISHSTOCK has already been VETO'd...so, forget that...
Thank you in advance for your help !!
Raymond from Maurice the Fish
So, in an effort to keep you all involved in the life and times of Maurice the Fish the band, we are sponsoring a contest to name an event we have coming up...the particulars:
Show Date: March 6th, 2010
Show Time: 8-11pm
Location: McCormick Woods Golf Course Bar / Lounge
*Submit Ideas: mauricethefishrocks@gmail.com
Deadline for submissions: Monday, January 11th @ 5pm
Prize-4 winning submission: 2 Free Tickets to the Show and an MTF Tshirt
NOTE: Winners to be chosen by MTF's manager and Raymond Hayden.
So, take a break from SEINFELD, LOST, CSI, HOUSE, 24 or whatever you do in your spare time and GET THE IDEAS OUT! We need your help more than ever...our puny little musician brains are all out of ideas....won't you help us fish for an answer? Ha and FISHSTOCK has already been VETO'd...so, forget that...
Thank you in advance for your help !!
Raymond from Maurice the Fish
04/01: Happy New Year!
Greetings friends!!
Nick Sandy here wanting to welcome you to 2010!! This is going to be the year of music for Maurice the Fish Records. We are all back and working hard to make this a year to remember! We're not just starting the year out right we're starting the DECADE out right!
I just got off the road traveling with Maurice the Fish and then for some quality time with family on the East Coast. Now that I'm back in good old Washington I'm ready to hit January hard for some good music. I'll be playing a few shows in the area. One with Savannah and Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home at the Tempest (see Savannah's Blog further down for more info) an event with Raymond Hayden for a friend of his, and then rocking it out at Blackstone with Maurice the Fish on MY BIRTHDAY. So if you haven't seen us play recently it would be a perfect time to catch the band and maybe buy me a drink for my 25th!
Let's check in with the other artists and see what's going on with them for the new year!
Rob Rigoni
The tracking phase of "Off the Hook" was completed on 12/28/09 at around 2:30 pm Pacific Time. I've been editing, mixing, and cleaning up all through the tracking process, but will begin final clean up today 12/29/09. Mixing will take place in January. I am very excited about the music on this upcoming release. Big thanks to everyone who has been involved in the project.
Raymond Hayden
As 2010 approaches, I look back and wonder what happened to 2009? Hmmm...seems like just a distant memory now...lets keep it that way shall we? Although, many great things happened this past year...signing Savannah and Nick to Maurice the Fish Records...adding Nick in Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home...adding Nick as an awesome bassist in Maurice the Fish the band...the Release of Savannah's album Serenity....Danielle's Release of Montgomery House / The Perfect Haunting....Sheena Metals LA Talk Radio going #1...and on and on and on...
Then, Sadness...MTF the band re-organizing (painful, but WELL worth it)...me (Raymond) dealing with some health issues with diabetes....Eric and Julianna separating-headed towards divorce...Susan losing her mother Carol Brittain...when it all boils down, everyone at MTFR was there for each other. That, my friends is what the FISH do at my label...that is what friends do.
The entertainment industry is brutal and tough to break into. You have to work each day at it to hone your craft. If you don't, someone else will be...I can assure you of that. Many years of touring the East and West coast as well as Europe...there is some fire out there...some real passion. We make our pain work for us and make us stronger. We share our success and laughter with the younger artists or up and comers...we develop a rhythm that keeps us at pace with those who have already broken through the barrier to the other side...our only hope is that we can sit down and break bread with them at one point.
So, what is Raymond up to for 2010? Here are some bullet point:
1. The release of Maurice the Fish's album "Off the Hook"
2. Start recording RH and the DDH's album: " Breathe"
3. Start doing more solo gigs to strengthen and hone my craft.
4. Double the number of songs I wrote in 2009.
5. Double the number of shows in 2009.
6. Develop a better rhythm . . . balance in life if you will.
7. Spend more time with family and friends.
8. Re-strengthen my relationship with GOD.
9. Break over to the "other side"
10. Get a YAMAHA endorsement.
...other than that...re-gain my health and energy and enjoy life to the fullest, oh, as well as continue to encourage my friends to dream and act upon it.
much love...2010, here we come...are YOU ready??? raymond
Danielle Egnew
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!
It’s blog time again, and 2010 is right upon us. I’m glad, as though I was very busy in 2009, and felt good about what was accomplished, it was a relatively tough year to endure, just in general -- so I’m all about 2010!
Christmas was a ball down in Huntington Beach, spent with the California section of my family, and so I’m trying to get geared up for going out tonight down here in CA to San Juan Capistrano to see our friend Terri’s band play a New year’s Eve Concert! You may be familiar with Terri’s band – Berlin – so I’ve been brushing up on my “No More Words” and “Take My Breath Away” lyrics so I can sing along like a happy fool from the front table in the audience! It’s actually REALLY nice not to be working (musically) this New Year’s Eve, after the pace of this year. I think Senior Patron and I will have a date that evening ; ).
I’ve been busy promoting the film that I directed and produced, “Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting”, which released onto DVD on December 16th. The film has been receiving AMAZING feedback and reviews, and I’ve been SO happy with how everybody has reacted to the picture! The reviews will be up on the website very soon, and I am just overwhelmed with overflow of incredible comments I’ve received not only from movie enthusiasts, but from paranormal groups all over the country, and they’re the toughest critics there are when it comes to paranormal evidence. The amount of encouragement and support that everyone in the film has extended to me is really amazing, and the content spoke for itself. So don’t forget to order your very own copy of the film, with over 20+ minutes of special features and contributed music from yours truly, and our very own Raymond Hayden (including an fantastic interview with him, sharing his ghostly experiences!)
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com
You can read the very first review the film review right here, written by Terra King of The Examiner - Los Angeles:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=454213909&blogId=524177934
On the music front, in January of 2010 I will be heading back to Montana to help produce Pope Jane’s Holly Shawver – you’ll know her as the sexy bassist ; ) – as she is recording her first solo album, consisting of all her own original material. I will be helping her arrange and track the songs, and adding Guitar (and maybe backing vocals) to the tracks. Holly will be handling all the vocals, keys, sequencing and bass lines – so GO HOLLY! She just got a brand new Korg to pull this all off with, so I will have some fun helping her get that wrapped up. It’s a LOT of fun to help another artist develop their sound -- and it’s a really weighted responsibility that an artist puts in your charge, so I don’t take it lightly. But I do have fun with it!
Then off to NAMM in Anaheim, CA, in the third week in January, where I will be representing The Sheena Metal Experience (as Producer) and the guitar company that endorses me – Minarik. I hope to see some of the Maurice the Fish Records gang down there this year!!
Okay, okay, for those of you waiting for the Dashboard Mary’s album -- I’m going to get the rest of the Dashboard Mary’s album recorded in February, and get that mixed in March. Currently, we are missing half the albums’ backing vocal tracks, which are Kristen’s. Dashboard Mary’s is my acoustic duo project with Pope Jane’s Kristen Coyner – sexy drummer bombshell but she’s playing guitar and singing with me on this project -- and she has a window of time while she has a friend coming to help with the brand new triplets, so we can get her vocals down and CD will be in the can! So look for Dashboard Mary’s in Spring / Summer of 2010!
Other than that, the year is wide open. I have a few things I’d like to do but I will keep those under wraps for now – a little surprise for later! I myself have had a pretty fantastic career year, yet even the greatest successes are not without its wear and tear. In the midst of great triumphs I had a pretty challenging personal year, like many of us – the shaky economy, 19 hour days / 7 days a week / month after month stretches with the film, friendships coming and going, entertainment industry struggles – you know, life : ). But overall, this year has been pretty amazing, and my partner and I have made the absolute best out of some pretty devastatingly bad situations that we’ve been thrown in the middle of. I’ve made some incredible new friends this year, to add to the crop of wonderful friends I’ve had for years, and in the midst I feel like I’ve made it through some sort of “hazing” -- like if I survived this past year and some of the unfounded drama it brought my way, I’m “in”, wherever “in” is – ha ha!
My New Year’s Resolution is to surround myself with healthy, loving people, healthy, bountiful projects, and healthy, open hearts. How can a person go wrong in the midst of that? I wish YOU ALL the most amazing New Year ever – 2010 is said to be a good one according to many people – so I hope that I get a chance to see more of my Maurice the Fish Records Musical Family this year – you guys are the best -- HAPPY 2010!!
Rikk Beatty
Hey folks,
Well its been an interesting year. Those of you who saw the show on New Years Eve KNOW we closed it out, not with a bang, but with a friggen EXPLOSION!! Its been a GREAT year. Lots of new endorsements and opportunities for the band. During the year, Chris got his endorsement with Taye drums, I got my Orange amplifiers, Audix, and Steinberg software endorsements, and the band got to travel to Nashville as well as San Francisco for some shows. We won a battle of the bands competition, gained ALLOT of new fans, and grew as musicians and band mates. We wrote enough tunes to record our next album and are looking forward to doing that ASAP. We also signed up with a booking agent who, as all agents, promises good things. This one is different though. He is well known and well connected. And best of all... he LOVES the band. 2010 promises to be MUCH busier and we cant wait to come see you in your town!!
Sorry to keep this short and sweet but I am getting ready to head out on the road again for another 2 weeks tomorrow so I have allot still to do. I will be at the Digitech factory for 4 days then off to Carlsbad, CA for a music tech show and then finally to Aneheim, CA for the NAMM show.
Until later.... Keep real. Keep rockin.
-Rikk
Savannah
Hey fish fans!
It looks like the holidays are coming to a close and it’s time to get back to school, work, and music. I just started working as a barista (not bikini barista!! haha) at an espresso stand in Tacoma, which I’m just loving! And, as of January 5th, I’m back to school to finish up my junior year at PLU. This month, in between working and studying, myself and Nick Sandy will be getting ready for our show at the Tempest lounge in Tacoma on January 27th at 7 pm. Also, we just received notice that we were selected for an audition for ‘America’s Got Talent’ so we’ll be working hard preparing for the audition! Very exciting!
I’ve decided, after recording my debut album ‘Reaching Serenity,’ that I want to get back in the studio and record a few songs in a totally different genre. Coming up in February, I will be hitting the studio to record a few jazz standards live with an intimate jazz trio. I just love singing this style and can’t wait to get some tracks down. I’ll be giving you updates on that project as it approaches.
I’m really looking forward to putting more effort and time into my music this year and becoming more focused with writing new songs and becoming a better guitar player. Apparently practice makes perfect, so practice, here I come! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic New Year!
All my love,
Savannah
__________________________________________________
Well there you have it folks! We're all ready for this year are you? Keep your ears open to the music!
Nick Sandy here wanting to welcome you to 2010!! This is going to be the year of music for Maurice the Fish Records. We are all back and working hard to make this a year to remember! We're not just starting the year out right we're starting the DECADE out right!
I just got off the road traveling with Maurice the Fish and then for some quality time with family on the East Coast. Now that I'm back in good old Washington I'm ready to hit January hard for some good music. I'll be playing a few shows in the area. One with Savannah and Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home at the Tempest (see Savannah's Blog further down for more info) an event with Raymond Hayden for a friend of his, and then rocking it out at Blackstone with Maurice the Fish on MY BIRTHDAY. So if you haven't seen us play recently it would be a perfect time to catch the band and maybe buy me a drink for my 25th!
Let's check in with the other artists and see what's going on with them for the new year!
Rob Rigoni
The tracking phase of "Off the Hook" was completed on 12/28/09 at around 2:30 pm Pacific Time. I've been editing, mixing, and cleaning up all through the tracking process, but will begin final clean up today 12/29/09. Mixing will take place in January. I am very excited about the music on this upcoming release. Big thanks to everyone who has been involved in the project.
Raymond Hayden
As 2010 approaches, I look back and wonder what happened to 2009? Hmmm...seems like just a distant memory now...lets keep it that way shall we? Although, many great things happened this past year...signing Savannah and Nick to Maurice the Fish Records...adding Nick in Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home...adding Nick as an awesome bassist in Maurice the Fish the band...the Release of Savannah's album Serenity....Danielle's Release of Montgomery House / The Perfect Haunting....Sheena Metals LA Talk Radio going #1...and on and on and on...
Then, Sadness...MTF the band re-organizing (painful, but WELL worth it)...me (Raymond) dealing with some health issues with diabetes....Eric and Julianna separating-headed towards divorce...Susan losing her mother Carol Brittain...when it all boils down, everyone at MTFR was there for each other. That, my friends is what the FISH do at my label...that is what friends do.
The entertainment industry is brutal and tough to break into. You have to work each day at it to hone your craft. If you don't, someone else will be...I can assure you of that. Many years of touring the East and West coast as well as Europe...there is some fire out there...some real passion. We make our pain work for us and make us stronger. We share our success and laughter with the younger artists or up and comers...we develop a rhythm that keeps us at pace with those who have already broken through the barrier to the other side...our only hope is that we can sit down and break bread with them at one point.
So, what is Raymond up to for 2010? Here are some bullet point:
1. The release of Maurice the Fish's album "Off the Hook"
2. Start recording RH and the DDH's album: " Breathe"
3. Start doing more solo gigs to strengthen and hone my craft.
4. Double the number of songs I wrote in 2009.
5. Double the number of shows in 2009.
6. Develop a better rhythm . . . balance in life if you will.
7. Spend more time with family and friends.
8. Re-strengthen my relationship with GOD.
9. Break over to the "other side"
10. Get a YAMAHA endorsement.
...other than that...re-gain my health and energy and enjoy life to the fullest, oh, as well as continue to encourage my friends to dream and act upon it.
much love...2010, here we come...are YOU ready??? raymond
Danielle Egnew
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!
It’s blog time again, and 2010 is right upon us. I’m glad, as though I was very busy in 2009, and felt good about what was accomplished, it was a relatively tough year to endure, just in general -- so I’m all about 2010!
Christmas was a ball down in Huntington Beach, spent with the California section of my family, and so I’m trying to get geared up for going out tonight down here in CA to San Juan Capistrano to see our friend Terri’s band play a New year’s Eve Concert! You may be familiar with Terri’s band – Berlin – so I’ve been brushing up on my “No More Words” and “Take My Breath Away” lyrics so I can sing along like a happy fool from the front table in the audience! It’s actually REALLY nice not to be working (musically) this New Year’s Eve, after the pace of this year. I think Senior Patron and I will have a date that evening ; ).
I’ve been busy promoting the film that I directed and produced, “Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting”, which released onto DVD on December 16th. The film has been receiving AMAZING feedback and reviews, and I’ve been SO happy with how everybody has reacted to the picture! The reviews will be up on the website very soon, and I am just overwhelmed with overflow of incredible comments I’ve received not only from movie enthusiasts, but from paranormal groups all over the country, and they’re the toughest critics there are when it comes to paranormal evidence. The amount of encouragement and support that everyone in the film has extended to me is really amazing, and the content spoke for itself. So don’t forget to order your very own copy of the film, with over 20+ minutes of special features and contributed music from yours truly, and our very own Raymond Hayden (including an fantastic interview with him, sharing his ghostly experiences!)
http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com
You can read the very first review the film review right here, written by Terra King of The Examiner - Los Angeles:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=454213909&blogId=524177934
On the music front, in January of 2010 I will be heading back to Montana to help produce Pope Jane’s Holly Shawver – you’ll know her as the sexy bassist ; ) – as she is recording her first solo album, consisting of all her own original material. I will be helping her arrange and track the songs, and adding Guitar (and maybe backing vocals) to the tracks. Holly will be handling all the vocals, keys, sequencing and bass lines – so GO HOLLY! She just got a brand new Korg to pull this all off with, so I will have some fun helping her get that wrapped up. It’s a LOT of fun to help another artist develop their sound -- and it’s a really weighted responsibility that an artist puts in your charge, so I don’t take it lightly. But I do have fun with it!
Then off to NAMM in Anaheim, CA, in the third week in January, where I will be representing The Sheena Metal Experience (as Producer) and the guitar company that endorses me – Minarik. I hope to see some of the Maurice the Fish Records gang down there this year!!
Okay, okay, for those of you waiting for the Dashboard Mary’s album -- I’m going to get the rest of the Dashboard Mary’s album recorded in February, and get that mixed in March. Currently, we are missing half the albums’ backing vocal tracks, which are Kristen’s. Dashboard Mary’s is my acoustic duo project with Pope Jane’s Kristen Coyner – sexy drummer bombshell but she’s playing guitar and singing with me on this project -- and she has a window of time while she has a friend coming to help with the brand new triplets, so we can get her vocals down and CD will be in the can! So look for Dashboard Mary’s in Spring / Summer of 2010!
Other than that, the year is wide open. I have a few things I’d like to do but I will keep those under wraps for now – a little surprise for later! I myself have had a pretty fantastic career year, yet even the greatest successes are not without its wear and tear. In the midst of great triumphs I had a pretty challenging personal year, like many of us – the shaky economy, 19 hour days / 7 days a week / month after month stretches with the film, friendships coming and going, entertainment industry struggles – you know, life : ). But overall, this year has been pretty amazing, and my partner and I have made the absolute best out of some pretty devastatingly bad situations that we’ve been thrown in the middle of. I’ve made some incredible new friends this year, to add to the crop of wonderful friends I’ve had for years, and in the midst I feel like I’ve made it through some sort of “hazing” -- like if I survived this past year and some of the unfounded drama it brought my way, I’m “in”, wherever “in” is – ha ha!
My New Year’s Resolution is to surround myself with healthy, loving people, healthy, bountiful projects, and healthy, open hearts. How can a person go wrong in the midst of that? I wish YOU ALL the most amazing New Year ever – 2010 is said to be a good one according to many people – so I hope that I get a chance to see more of my Maurice the Fish Records Musical Family this year – you guys are the best -- HAPPY 2010!!
Rikk Beatty
Hey folks,
Well its been an interesting year. Those of you who saw the show on New Years Eve KNOW we closed it out, not with a bang, but with a friggen EXPLOSION!! Its been a GREAT year. Lots of new endorsements and opportunities for the band. During the year, Chris got his endorsement with Taye drums, I got my Orange amplifiers, Audix, and Steinberg software endorsements, and the band got to travel to Nashville as well as San Francisco for some shows. We won a battle of the bands competition, gained ALLOT of new fans, and grew as musicians and band mates. We wrote enough tunes to record our next album and are looking forward to doing that ASAP. We also signed up with a booking agent who, as all agents, promises good things. This one is different though. He is well known and well connected. And best of all... he LOVES the band. 2010 promises to be MUCH busier and we cant wait to come see you in your town!!
Sorry to keep this short and sweet but I am getting ready to head out on the road again for another 2 weeks tomorrow so I have allot still to do. I will be at the Digitech factory for 4 days then off to Carlsbad, CA for a music tech show and then finally to Aneheim, CA for the NAMM show.
Until later.... Keep real. Keep rockin.
-Rikk
Savannah
Hey fish fans!
It looks like the holidays are coming to a close and it’s time to get back to school, work, and music. I just started working as a barista (not bikini barista!! haha) at an espresso stand in Tacoma, which I’m just loving! And, as of January 5th, I’m back to school to finish up my junior year at PLU. This month, in between working and studying, myself and Nick Sandy will be getting ready for our show at the Tempest lounge in Tacoma on January 27th at 7 pm. Also, we just received notice that we were selected for an audition for ‘America’s Got Talent’ so we’ll be working hard preparing for the audition! Very exciting!
I’ve decided, after recording my debut album ‘Reaching Serenity,’ that I want to get back in the studio and record a few songs in a totally different genre. Coming up in February, I will be hitting the studio to record a few jazz standards live with an intimate jazz trio. I just love singing this style and can’t wait to get some tracks down. I’ll be giving you updates on that project as it approaches.
I’m really looking forward to putting more effort and time into my music this year and becoming more focused with writing new songs and becoming a better guitar player. Apparently practice makes perfect, so practice, here I come! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic New Year!
All my love,
Savannah
__________________________________________________
Well there you have it folks! We're all ready for this year are you? Keep your ears open to the music!
09/12: MTF Artist Update!
Hello Good Readers!
My name is Nick Sandy and I'm officially taking over the duties of updating this wonderful blog with information from all YOUR favorite Maurice the Fish artists! What better way for us to stay in touch with all of you? So let me kick things off by saying I am one of the newest members of this wonderful FAMILY of artists. I have enjoyed my first few months touring around with Maurice the Fish (the band haha!), playing with Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home all around, jamming out with Savannah, and playing my own solo shows. Which by the way if you are around December 16h and find yourself in downtown Tacoma at "The Tempest" around 7pm stop by and enjoy a show!
Most recently I finally got a solid producer. Maybe you know him? RAYMOND HAYDEN?? After many late night conversations I decided to go out on a limb and ask Mr. Hayden to be my producer and get my butt in gear! He graciously accepted and has been helping me every day grow as a musician and get to know the business a little more.
I've been busy moving and traveling around for shows and for "vacation". I just got back from my home in Okinawa, Japan for a high school friends wedding which was a blast. It's funny how much home can be home no matter how long it's been since you've actually been there! I also just recently formed a small blues trio with two of my very good friends Joey McGee and Chad Russell. It's called the JNC Trio and keep your ears to the blog for our first show!
You can follow me on Twitter, nicholas_sandy or find me on Myspace at www.myspace.com/nichsandy
NickSandy was taken so I went with the "h".
So now that you've heard a little about me lets check in with the other Fishies shall we? Oh yeah and don't forget! December 16th at the Tempest in downtown Tacoma, 7pm!
Danielle Egnew
Hey all! HI!! WOW, has 2009 been incredibly busy, and a real landmark career year for me on a personal note, from music to film to radio production. Sheesh, where to start. Nick, this is long diatribe your fault – if you wouldn’t have threatened to print that I “shaved my head and am only doing REM covers now”, these fine, fine people would be spared this novelist nightmare ;)! I’m just kidding – I love ya Nick, and I love these blogs, and it’s terrific to share with all of you what I’ve all been up to!
Most of my year was spent in the dark recesses of a post-production studio, editing, color correcting, sound designing, title-and-animating, and scoring my very first feature film that I wrote, produced, directed, and yes, of course – starred in ;) -- Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting. I released this fantastic documentary film on October 31st 2009, had a big silver-screen premier in Sheridan, Wyoming, at the haunted and historic WYO Theater – special thanks to my buddy Roy Pack and his wife Mo, and their organization Cloud Peak Initiatives and Toys for Tots, for sponsoring the event -- and I had a DVD release on November 27th, so it’s been non-stop waves of releases!
The film as a whole took a little longer than I had anticipated to finish, from the shooting to the market-ready DVD designing and pressing, but being as that this is my first feature film where I’ve ever been responsible for the entire process, rather than just being “fabulous as talent” (lol ;) or scoring the picture, I was unaware of some of the processes (from beginning to end) that the project would entail. Unlike a music project which is focused on mixing SOUND, in film there are SO many, many little bitty details to deal with, from the artistic to the technical aspects, sound being only one -- and all in all, though, the film was completed and out in less than a year from when we were filming in November of 2008, and I’m told by many film veterans that this turn-around cycle was pretty impressive. Coming from a music production background, “a year” to finish an entire project, from shooting to the shelves, seemed like a very long haul to me , but now that I know what goes into it, the next film will be a breeze to plan the post-production end.
On a side note, you’ll want to check out the film on DVD, as not only is this film completely comprehensive, but it has about 20 minutes of special features, and includes some familiar faces – our own Raymond Hayden sharing his ghostly experiences in Montgomery House, as well as his music, and of course both Eric and Julianna Montgomery, as it was their former Bed and Breakfast! You can order your very own copy of Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting on DVD by clicking on the “order” button on this page: http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com
And yes, I am still doing music (a few of you have asked about that .) I did get a chance to do some music this past year as well, thank goodness. I took a few breaks in the edit bay and returned to the music saddle throughout the spring and summer, recording an album with Pope Jane drummer Kristen Coyner that involves us both writing, playing guitar and trading off singing leads – it’s an acoustic guitar duo, if you will, called The Dashboard Mary’s. This project REALLY turned out tasty and fabulous, and it’s been sitting on a harddrive waiting to be mixed since, well – March – because I’ve been hard at work on the film! Poor Dashboard Mary’s! Kristen’s pretty anxious for me to be able to get in and get it mixed, although thanks to the TRIPLETS that she and her partner Cassie recently had – Kristen’s got her hands full right now ! That mixing project will begin in January of 2010. A highlight on this album is the first-ever cover that I recorded with the intention of distributing – Kristen and I did an AMAZING rendition of the famed Leonard Cohen song “Hallelujah”, and if I may say so myself, this song is a REAL stand-out, with an arrangement at the end including a 32-voice choir part that I layered up guaranteed to deliver goose-bumps! It was all Kristen and me, of course, but hey, when you’re recording in a cabin, it’s a bit tough to fit the Mormon Tabernacle Choir into the recording loft!! So that, along with some slide solos I had a chance to do, and some great smokey vocals from Kristen, really made this project pop -- I hope you guys like it as much as we enjoyed recording it!
In terms of live music in 2009, I headlined Tacoma Pride in July of 2009 with a killer backing band consisting of some of your Maurice The Fish Records favorites – Raymond Hayden on keyboards and backing vocals, Nick Sandy on bass and backing vocals, Dave Sawyer on lead guitar, and Eric Montgomery on drums and backing vocals. The show was terrific and the band was spectacular, and a special shout-out of thanks to our very own rockin’ Rikk Beatty who let me borrow his AWESOME Orange Amp and cabinets, which I have been coveting every since!! YUM and WOW ! I also played a Montana CD release party for my album Red Lodge (which was also nominated this year in the 2009 TUNEY Awards in Montana as BEST ALBUM) as I was not able to make it back to Montana during the November 2008 release season for that record – so I threw a delayed “release” party in Billings, Montana in June of 2009, accompanied by Pope Jane’s Holly Shawver on bass and my very own stepdad Peter Michelotti on mandolin and congas. It was a great packed show, and a complete blast! Then in August, Pope Jane bassist Holly Shawver came to LA and sat in with The Whiskey Roadshow Band – myself and rockstar Richie Vaccaro, who played lead guitar on this gig and turned the bass over to Holly -- at our show at the world-famous Viper Room – yep, Johnny Depp’s club . Holly had a MAJOR blast, so it looks like we will be folding Holly into The Whiskey Roadshow in 2010, on bass! She will continue to live in Montana, and hop those cheap Allegiant Airlines flights down for shows. Good times !
On a radio note, I do all of the radio production, bits, and bumpers for The Sheena Metal Experience radio show, which is now the #1 rated program on the #1 rated station, LA Talk Radio!! Congratulations to SHEENA for a terrific show! I will be doing a whole new crop of production for the show in January, as I’ve been slammed with the film. You can check out some of the great celebrity guests that Sheena has had on her show from Carol Channing to Rue McClanahan to the following rock greats and more:
Terri Nunn (Berlin Vocalist)
Martha Davis (The Motels Vocalist)
Josie Cotton (Solo Artist - “Johnny Are You Queer”, “He Could Be The One”)
Dramarama
Duncan Faure (Bay City Rollers)
Peter Beckett (Player)
Kenny Gamble (writer / producer “Love Train”, “Me and Mrs. Jones”, etc)
Bob Kulick (guitarist for KISS, Alice Cooper, Dianna Ross, Meatloaf, etc)
Blackbyrd McKnight (guitarist for P-Funk, George Clinton, etc.)
Cry Wolf
Plus, I’m a regular on Sheena’s show as “The Experience’s Resident Psychic”(yes, my other “job”) so check out all her great celebrity guests and their shows here: http://www.SheenaMetalExperience.com/guesthall.htm .
According to Arbitron, the nation’s leading radio and TV surveying service, WiFi and Internet radio have surpassed AM / FM radio in trackable listenership. AM / FM radio’s revenue is down over 20% due to a loss of listenership, and “big” terrestrial (AM /FM) radio giants like Clear Channel are closing stations left and right. So welcome to the 21st century where WiFi radio dominates!
On another producer note, I was just recently approached by SHURE microphones to do an interview on recording Red Lodge, and as a producer in general, and that was a fantastic interview! Shure Microphones, of course is a staple in the live performance and studio realm, and the November issue of SHURE NOTES goes out to all their patrons. If you want to read that terrific interview, you can check that out in the Shure Notes Newlsetter, right here:
http://shurenotes.com/issue38/article2.html
I’ve started a wonderful working relationship with Shure, and without speaking out of turn, it will be exciting to report on that in the next year.
It’s been a REALLY busy year, and I hope next year is as busy -- I’ve got Montgomery House to promote, The Dashboard Mary’s to mix, press and promote, I’d like to get to finishing the recording of the Pope Jane album Tin Star Revival that got shelved in 2008 because of my Red Lodge and film release schedule, and get cracking on recording Richie, me and drummer Pam in my Whiskey Roadshow Band, and then there’s the hard rock project that Holly and I are starting up, Diocese – and our own Raymond Hayden has expressed interest in me helping produce The Dark Drive Home’s “Breathe” album with he and the group, which would be a ball -- so it will remain to be seen what gets accomplished! All things have their moment, right?
Through my work on Sheena’s radio show, I’ve gotten a chance to meet some wonderful people this year – stage and screen legend Carol Channing, comedy legends JoAnne Worley and Rip Taylor, music goddesses Martha Davis and Terri Nunn (Terri suggested we do a screening of my film out at her pad, so that will be fun ) , and the list just gets silly and sounds like I‘m a name-dropping nightmare, so I’ll give it a rest ;) – but the point it, it’s fantastic to meet people who inspired you, and I hope to be able to live up to the impression they have all made in my life.
So my many, many, many thanks to all of my friends, family and fans throughout 2009, and may YOUR days be Merry and Bright! Reach for the stars, everybody, and Happy Holidays, everyone !! BIG HUGS!! Xo Danielle
RICK BEATTY
WAAAAAAAAAASUP?!?!?!
The last few months have been busy for the Rikk Beatty Band. We have played some great shows but have stuck to the Washington area. We had allot of fun in Nashville, TN and in Livermore, CA and made a Youtube video of some stuff from Nashville. We also picked up some new endorsements! Chris is now endorsed by Taye drums. I got a full endorsement from Audix microphones and they sent out some very AMAZING mics for us to use in the studio and live! I also received an endorsement through Steinberg and they hooked us up with the full version of Cubase 5, Wavelabs for mastering, as well as Nuendo.
The biggest news though is that starting this month after I get back from New York, we will be recording the new album!! We have 12 songs that definitely have a different flavor than the Guitar Farm album and we are very excited to hear these put down to disc!
Well I guess thats it for now!!!
Peace, Love, and Good Happpiness stuff....
-Rikk
Rob Rigoni
Here is what's cookin' in the Rob Rigoni sector of the MTFR Empire!
* Rob: The studio and office in Gig Harbor are now completely set up and operational. I now have a central location to conduct most of my music business activity from administrative to creative. Keeping busy performing solo with the Budapest West project, or rockin' out with Maurice the Fish.
* Maurice the Fish: Finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel on the production of the new Maurice the Fish album. Instruments are 98.7462% finished, but just a few guitar "ear candy" things to complete. Main guitars, bass, drums, keys all finished. Vocals are about 71.68% finished. Should be mixing in January.
* Budapest West: Yes, you head right "Budapest West". I've already recorded lots of guitar tracks for a third Budapest West CD. Yes, I know I tried to make the second BW CD into a "World Fusion meets a hard rock Jimmy Buffet", but now it's back to the basics. The third BW CD will be a lot more like the first BW CD, but a little more on the acoustic side, and ALL instrumental. Kind of like the Indiana Jones saga....sure there are some cool parts in the second one, but overall let's focus on the 1st and 3rd!
--
Rob Rigoni
Guitarist, Singer/Songwriter & Recording Artist
Raymond Hayden
Yes, I'm still here my friends....still a huge Chicago and Pink Floyd fan! Lovin' life...workin' hard....playin' even harder (kind of).
For the past three and a half months, well...I've been nursing myself back to health. I'm still on that path, FYI....so, I am a diabetic and I let things get away from me. In the end, I'm paying for it, but getting things back to normal. I have put myself first for the first time in years...really, I am doing it. Some of you have noticed that I haven't been quite as active, but I'm getting back there...slowly as she goes, but getting there. What I'd like is a balance. O.K., I'll pause while you all laugh...
Balance...well, I..you...we, we've all thought about that at one time or another. I'd like to thank my immediate family and my music family for being patient and understanding while I've been going through these trying times. Not always easy to admit that you...well, that you made a mistake. My mistake being....not taking care of myself. Well, I am now...and what is Raymond up to these day....best to bullet point:
*Playing keyboards & singing / music director of Maurice the Fish.
(Album: "Off the Hook" nearly completed)
*Playing keyboard & singing for Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home
(Just started pre-production on new album: "Breathe'")
*Writing new music weekly, just finished three new ones:
1. Mis-Understood (Co-written with Kerry Weller-Richards)
2. Choose to Believe (Written Soley by Moi')
3. Close to the End (Instrumental written soley by Moi'")
*Producing Nick Sandy
*Running "Maurice the Fish Records"
*Working on my craft...keys/vocals/composition/arrangement
Other than that, I've re-united with some old friends (Hey Mick'...of Vixxin) and stabilized relationships with close friends. Life is too short to do anything other than move forward in a postive way. Inspire others...encourage others to believe in themselves....but never, and I mean NEVER blow sunshine! Thought..."You get back what you put in." Ten fold...talent is a real thing...but it must be nurtured...watered...cared for...and most of all shaped. Put the time in and you will reap the rewards.
Wow...want on an inspiration tangent there...but, I'm where I am today because of those things and the consistent love an encouragement of my family, friends and fans. And by the way, those groups overlap all the time...best to some them all up in one word: FAMILY. For example...Terri Downs...Jen....Brandon....fans who have become good friends. Love, Love, Love that....you guys make a difference.
So, with that...I'm going to go and put the finishing touches on "Choose to Believe."
Mikey, I'm in the game.
Kevin (K'dog), you are an inspiration
Diane...keep up the positive affirmations
And, the list goes on and on and on....phew,
"Love, its a funny thing...makes the world go 'round, takes care of everything..."
much love,
Raymond
Eric Montgomery
“For most of the last year (actually 3 years), I have been in serious survival mode. The last six months have been absorbed in picking up the pieces of THE worst aftermath of my life- financial ruin, 2 tax audits, foreclosures, MTF breakup, a separation and now divorce with Julianna, and several moves. Boy, what does that say about the law of attraction? L I am now settled and emotionally ready to step forward into this new and exciting gift we call life. I’ve got tons of life experience now to add to the creative pots of several great opportunities and I am counting my many blessings.
My greatest blessing out of it all is my beautiful daughter River for whom I cherish deeply. She just turned 3 this week. Happy Birthday, River!
Since the inevitable demise of BooJu, I have decided to wrap up some of those efforts with the release of a solo album which will include the “best of the past” in a diverse presentation of piano/vocal works and the more avant garde works from the Drums/Synth/Vocal works. I am setting up recording gear at my new home in Battleground, Washington where I now have the awesome luxury of a grand piano to work with.
I have also been collaborating with Ric Bouvette, who is the brilliant bassist on Raymond Hayden’s September Sky album.
Our new friend Casie at the Blackstone Bar and Grill called me last week at the last minute to perform my piano/vocal arrangements for the 3.5 hour dinner period from 4:30 – 8pm. This was a great success and he has asked me back.
I am very pleased to announce that I will be working with Maurice the Fish again toward the release of the debut album “Off the Hook.” The guys have been very supportive and encouraging through this tumultuous season and have proven to be true friends. I have also had the pleasure of playing with the newest and perhaps most talented addition to the band, Nicholas Sandy. He has also proven to be a valuable asset to band and as a friend. We had a couple of great shows at the Blackstone Bar and Grill in Vancouver that proved our friendship and chemistry as musicians is better than ever. They received us so well there that it looks like we’ll have a consistent monthly show there. So all of you Southern Washington folks, get on out and catch up with us. Be sure and bring your dancing shoes. Well be there on January 16th and February 20th.”
Savannah
Savannah released her debut CD "Reaching Serenity" this summer and has been busy promoting the album and writing material by herself, and with Raymond Hayden and Nick Sandy. If you haven't heard her album yet it is available for purchase on iTunes. Savannah is also a full time student and Pacific Lutheran University and is half way through her Junior year there! She will be playing at the Tempest in downtown Tacoma on January 27th at 7pm. If you haven't had a chance to check out Savannah this is a great spot to see her.
__________
So there you have it folks! I know it was a long read but we're going to try to do this more often to check back to the site every couple weeks for updates from yours truly and the other artists! I hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week as we gear up for the Holiday Season! Stay warm and keep your ears open to the music!
-Nick
My name is Nick Sandy and I'm officially taking over the duties of updating this wonderful blog with information from all YOUR favorite Maurice the Fish artists! What better way for us to stay in touch with all of you? So let me kick things off by saying I am one of the newest members of this wonderful FAMILY of artists. I have enjoyed my first few months touring around with Maurice the Fish (the band haha!), playing with Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home all around, jamming out with Savannah, and playing my own solo shows. Which by the way if you are around December 16h and find yourself in downtown Tacoma at "The Tempest" around 7pm stop by and enjoy a show!
Most recently I finally got a solid producer. Maybe you know him? RAYMOND HAYDEN?? After many late night conversations I decided to go out on a limb and ask Mr. Hayden to be my producer and get my butt in gear! He graciously accepted and has been helping me every day grow as a musician and get to know the business a little more.
I've been busy moving and traveling around for shows and for "vacation". I just got back from my home in Okinawa, Japan for a high school friends wedding which was a blast. It's funny how much home can be home no matter how long it's been since you've actually been there! I also just recently formed a small blues trio with two of my very good friends Joey McGee and Chad Russell. It's called the JNC Trio and keep your ears to the blog for our first show!
You can follow me on Twitter, nicholas_sandy or find me on Myspace at www.myspace.com/nichsandy
NickSandy was taken so I went with the "h".
So now that you've heard a little about me lets check in with the other Fishies shall we? Oh yeah and don't forget! December 16th at the Tempest in downtown Tacoma, 7pm!
Danielle Egnew
Hey all! HI!! WOW, has 2009 been incredibly busy, and a real landmark career year for me on a personal note, from music to film to radio production. Sheesh, where to start. Nick, this is long diatribe your fault – if you wouldn’t have threatened to print that I “shaved my head and am only doing REM covers now”, these fine, fine people would be spared this novelist nightmare ;)! I’m just kidding – I love ya Nick, and I love these blogs, and it’s terrific to share with all of you what I’ve all been up to!
Most of my year was spent in the dark recesses of a post-production studio, editing, color correcting, sound designing, title-and-animating, and scoring my very first feature film that I wrote, produced, directed, and yes, of course – starred in ;) -- Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting. I released this fantastic documentary film on October 31st 2009, had a big silver-screen premier in Sheridan, Wyoming, at the haunted and historic WYO Theater – special thanks to my buddy Roy Pack and his wife Mo, and their organization Cloud Peak Initiatives and Toys for Tots, for sponsoring the event -- and I had a DVD release on November 27th, so it’s been non-stop waves of releases!
The film as a whole took a little longer than I had anticipated to finish, from the shooting to the market-ready DVD designing and pressing, but being as that this is my first feature film where I’ve ever been responsible for the entire process, rather than just being “fabulous as talent” (lol ;) or scoring the picture, I was unaware of some of the processes (from beginning to end) that the project would entail. Unlike a music project which is focused on mixing SOUND, in film there are SO many, many little bitty details to deal with, from the artistic to the technical aspects, sound being only one -- and all in all, though, the film was completed and out in less than a year from when we were filming in November of 2008, and I’m told by many film veterans that this turn-around cycle was pretty impressive. Coming from a music production background, “a year” to finish an entire project, from shooting to the shelves, seemed like a very long haul to me , but now that I know what goes into it, the next film will be a breeze to plan the post-production end.
On a side note, you’ll want to check out the film on DVD, as not only is this film completely comprehensive, but it has about 20 minutes of special features, and includes some familiar faces – our own Raymond Hayden sharing his ghostly experiences in Montgomery House, as well as his music, and of course both Eric and Julianna Montgomery, as it was their former Bed and Breakfast! You can order your very own copy of Montgomery House: The Perfect Haunting on DVD by clicking on the “order” button on this page: http://www.montgomeryhousehaunting.com
And yes, I am still doing music (a few of you have asked about that .) I did get a chance to do some music this past year as well, thank goodness. I took a few breaks in the edit bay and returned to the music saddle throughout the spring and summer, recording an album with Pope Jane drummer Kristen Coyner that involves us both writing, playing guitar and trading off singing leads – it’s an acoustic guitar duo, if you will, called The Dashboard Mary’s. This project REALLY turned out tasty and fabulous, and it’s been sitting on a harddrive waiting to be mixed since, well – March – because I’ve been hard at work on the film! Poor Dashboard Mary’s! Kristen’s pretty anxious for me to be able to get in and get it mixed, although thanks to the TRIPLETS that she and her partner Cassie recently had – Kristen’s got her hands full right now ! That mixing project will begin in January of 2010. A highlight on this album is the first-ever cover that I recorded with the intention of distributing – Kristen and I did an AMAZING rendition of the famed Leonard Cohen song “Hallelujah”, and if I may say so myself, this song is a REAL stand-out, with an arrangement at the end including a 32-voice choir part that I layered up guaranteed to deliver goose-bumps! It was all Kristen and me, of course, but hey, when you’re recording in a cabin, it’s a bit tough to fit the Mormon Tabernacle Choir into the recording loft!! So that, along with some slide solos I had a chance to do, and some great smokey vocals from Kristen, really made this project pop -- I hope you guys like it as much as we enjoyed recording it!
In terms of live music in 2009, I headlined Tacoma Pride in July of 2009 with a killer backing band consisting of some of your Maurice The Fish Records favorites – Raymond Hayden on keyboards and backing vocals, Nick Sandy on bass and backing vocals, Dave Sawyer on lead guitar, and Eric Montgomery on drums and backing vocals. The show was terrific and the band was spectacular, and a special shout-out of thanks to our very own rockin’ Rikk Beatty who let me borrow his AWESOME Orange Amp and cabinets, which I have been coveting every since!! YUM and WOW ! I also played a Montana CD release party for my album Red Lodge (which was also nominated this year in the 2009 TUNEY Awards in Montana as BEST ALBUM) as I was not able to make it back to Montana during the November 2008 release season for that record – so I threw a delayed “release” party in Billings, Montana in June of 2009, accompanied by Pope Jane’s Holly Shawver on bass and my very own stepdad Peter Michelotti on mandolin and congas. It was a great packed show, and a complete blast! Then in August, Pope Jane bassist Holly Shawver came to LA and sat in with The Whiskey Roadshow Band – myself and rockstar Richie Vaccaro, who played lead guitar on this gig and turned the bass over to Holly -- at our show at the world-famous Viper Room – yep, Johnny Depp’s club . Holly had a MAJOR blast, so it looks like we will be folding Holly into The Whiskey Roadshow in 2010, on bass! She will continue to live in Montana, and hop those cheap Allegiant Airlines flights down for shows. Good times !
On a radio note, I do all of the radio production, bits, and bumpers for The Sheena Metal Experience radio show, which is now the #1 rated program on the #1 rated station, LA Talk Radio!! Congratulations to SHEENA for a terrific show! I will be doing a whole new crop of production for the show in January, as I’ve been slammed with the film. You can check out some of the great celebrity guests that Sheena has had on her show from Carol Channing to Rue McClanahan to the following rock greats and more:
Terri Nunn (Berlin Vocalist)
Martha Davis (The Motels Vocalist)
Josie Cotton (Solo Artist - “Johnny Are You Queer”, “He Could Be The One”)
Dramarama
Duncan Faure (Bay City Rollers)
Peter Beckett (Player)
Kenny Gamble (writer / producer “Love Train”, “Me and Mrs. Jones”, etc)
Bob Kulick (guitarist for KISS, Alice Cooper, Dianna Ross, Meatloaf, etc)
Blackbyrd McKnight (guitarist for P-Funk, George Clinton, etc.)
Cry Wolf
Plus, I’m a regular on Sheena’s show as “The Experience’s Resident Psychic”(yes, my other “job”) so check out all her great celebrity guests and their shows here: http://www.SheenaMetalExperience.com/guesthall.htm .
According to Arbitron, the nation’s leading radio and TV surveying service, WiFi and Internet radio have surpassed AM / FM radio in trackable listenership. AM / FM radio’s revenue is down over 20% due to a loss of listenership, and “big” terrestrial (AM /FM) radio giants like Clear Channel are closing stations left and right. So welcome to the 21st century where WiFi radio dominates!
On another producer note, I was just recently approached by SHURE microphones to do an interview on recording Red Lodge, and as a producer in general, and that was a fantastic interview! Shure Microphones, of course is a staple in the live performance and studio realm, and the November issue of SHURE NOTES goes out to all their patrons. If you want to read that terrific interview, you can check that out in the Shure Notes Newlsetter, right here:
http://shurenotes.com/issue38/article2.html
I’ve started a wonderful working relationship with Shure, and without speaking out of turn, it will be exciting to report on that in the next year.
It’s been a REALLY busy year, and I hope next year is as busy -- I’ve got Montgomery House to promote, The Dashboard Mary’s to mix, press and promote, I’d like to get to finishing the recording of the Pope Jane album Tin Star Revival that got shelved in 2008 because of my Red Lodge and film release schedule, and get cracking on recording Richie, me and drummer Pam in my Whiskey Roadshow Band, and then there’s the hard rock project that Holly and I are starting up, Diocese – and our own Raymond Hayden has expressed interest in me helping produce The Dark Drive Home’s “Breathe” album with he and the group, which would be a ball -- so it will remain to be seen what gets accomplished! All things have their moment, right?
Through my work on Sheena’s radio show, I’ve gotten a chance to meet some wonderful people this year – stage and screen legend Carol Channing, comedy legends JoAnne Worley and Rip Taylor, music goddesses Martha Davis and Terri Nunn (Terri suggested we do a screening of my film out at her pad, so that will be fun ) , and the list just gets silly and sounds like I‘m a name-dropping nightmare, so I’ll give it a rest ;) – but the point it, it’s fantastic to meet people who inspired you, and I hope to be able to live up to the impression they have all made in my life.
So my many, many, many thanks to all of my friends, family and fans throughout 2009, and may YOUR days be Merry and Bright! Reach for the stars, everybody, and Happy Holidays, everyone !! BIG HUGS!! Xo Danielle
RICK BEATTY
WAAAAAAAAAASUP?!?!?!
The last few months have been busy for the Rikk Beatty Band. We have played some great shows but have stuck to the Washington area. We had allot of fun in Nashville, TN and in Livermore, CA and made a Youtube video of some stuff from Nashville. We also picked up some new endorsements! Chris is now endorsed by Taye drums. I got a full endorsement from Audix microphones and they sent out some very AMAZING mics for us to use in the studio and live! I also received an endorsement through Steinberg and they hooked us up with the full version of Cubase 5, Wavelabs for mastering, as well as Nuendo.
The biggest news though is that starting this month after I get back from New York, we will be recording the new album!! We have 12 songs that definitely have a different flavor than the Guitar Farm album and we are very excited to hear these put down to disc!
Well I guess thats it for now!!!
Peace, Love, and Good Happpiness stuff....
-Rikk
Rob Rigoni
Here is what's cookin' in the Rob Rigoni sector of the MTFR Empire!
* Rob: The studio and office in Gig Harbor are now completely set up and operational. I now have a central location to conduct most of my music business activity from administrative to creative. Keeping busy performing solo with the Budapest West project, or rockin' out with Maurice the Fish.
* Maurice the Fish: Finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel on the production of the new Maurice the Fish album. Instruments are 98.7462% finished, but just a few guitar "ear candy" things to complete. Main guitars, bass, drums, keys all finished. Vocals are about 71.68% finished. Should be mixing in January.
* Budapest West: Yes, you head right "Budapest West". I've already recorded lots of guitar tracks for a third Budapest West CD. Yes, I know I tried to make the second BW CD into a "World Fusion meets a hard rock Jimmy Buffet", but now it's back to the basics. The third BW CD will be a lot more like the first BW CD, but a little more on the acoustic side, and ALL instrumental. Kind of like the Indiana Jones saga....sure there are some cool parts in the second one, but overall let's focus on the 1st and 3rd!
--
Rob Rigoni
Guitarist, Singer/Songwriter & Recording Artist
Raymond Hayden
Yes, I'm still here my friends....still a huge Chicago and Pink Floyd fan! Lovin' life...workin' hard....playin' even harder (kind of).
For the past three and a half months, well...I've been nursing myself back to health. I'm still on that path, FYI....so, I am a diabetic and I let things get away from me. In the end, I'm paying for it, but getting things back to normal. I have put myself first for the first time in years...really, I am doing it. Some of you have noticed that I haven't been quite as active, but I'm getting back there...slowly as she goes, but getting there. What I'd like is a balance. O.K., I'll pause while you all laugh...
Balance...well, I..you...we, we've all thought about that at one time or another. I'd like to thank my immediate family and my music family for being patient and understanding while I've been going through these trying times. Not always easy to admit that you...well, that you made a mistake. My mistake being....not taking care of myself. Well, I am now...and what is Raymond up to these day....best to bullet point:
*Playing keyboards & singing / music director of Maurice the Fish.
(Album: "Off the Hook" nearly completed)
*Playing keyboard & singing for Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home
(Just started pre-production on new album: "Breathe'")
*Writing new music weekly, just finished three new ones:
1. Mis-Understood (Co-written with Kerry Weller-Richards)
2. Choose to Believe (Written Soley by Moi')
3. Close to the End (Instrumental written soley by Moi'")
*Producing Nick Sandy
*Running "Maurice the Fish Records"
*Working on my craft...keys/vocals/composition/arrangement
Other than that, I've re-united with some old friends (Hey Mick'...of Vixxin) and stabilized relationships with close friends. Life is too short to do anything other than move forward in a postive way. Inspire others...encourage others to believe in themselves....but never, and I mean NEVER blow sunshine! Thought..."You get back what you put in." Ten fold...talent is a real thing...but it must be nurtured...watered...cared for...and most of all shaped. Put the time in and you will reap the rewards.
Wow...want on an inspiration tangent there...but, I'm where I am today because of those things and the consistent love an encouragement of my family, friends and fans. And by the way, those groups overlap all the time...best to some them all up in one word: FAMILY. For example...Terri Downs...Jen....Brandon....fans who have become good friends. Love, Love, Love that....you guys make a difference.
So, with that...I'm going to go and put the finishing touches on "Choose to Believe."
Mikey, I'm in the game.
Kevin (K'dog), you are an inspiration
Diane...keep up the positive affirmations
And, the list goes on and on and on....phew,
"Love, its a funny thing...makes the world go 'round, takes care of everything..."
much love,
Raymond
Eric Montgomery
“For most of the last year (actually 3 years), I have been in serious survival mode. The last six months have been absorbed in picking up the pieces of THE worst aftermath of my life- financial ruin, 2 tax audits, foreclosures, MTF breakup, a separation and now divorce with Julianna, and several moves. Boy, what does that say about the law of attraction? L I am now settled and emotionally ready to step forward into this new and exciting gift we call life. I’ve got tons of life experience now to add to the creative pots of several great opportunities and I am counting my many blessings.
My greatest blessing out of it all is my beautiful daughter River for whom I cherish deeply. She just turned 3 this week. Happy Birthday, River!
Since the inevitable demise of BooJu, I have decided to wrap up some of those efforts with the release of a solo album which will include the “best of the past” in a diverse presentation of piano/vocal works and the more avant garde works from the Drums/Synth/Vocal works. I am setting up recording gear at my new home in Battleground, Washington where I now have the awesome luxury of a grand piano to work with.
I have also been collaborating with Ric Bouvette, who is the brilliant bassist on Raymond Hayden’s September Sky album.
Our new friend Casie at the Blackstone Bar and Grill called me last week at the last minute to perform my piano/vocal arrangements for the 3.5 hour dinner period from 4:30 – 8pm. This was a great success and he has asked me back.
I am very pleased to announce that I will be working with Maurice the Fish again toward the release of the debut album “Off the Hook.” The guys have been very supportive and encouraging through this tumultuous season and have proven to be true friends. I have also had the pleasure of playing with the newest and perhaps most talented addition to the band, Nicholas Sandy. He has also proven to be a valuable asset to band and as a friend. We had a couple of great shows at the Blackstone Bar and Grill in Vancouver that proved our friendship and chemistry as musicians is better than ever. They received us so well there that it looks like we’ll have a consistent monthly show there. So all of you Southern Washington folks, get on out and catch up with us. Be sure and bring your dancing shoes. Well be there on January 16th and February 20th.”
Savannah
Savannah released her debut CD "Reaching Serenity" this summer and has been busy promoting the album and writing material by herself, and with Raymond Hayden and Nick Sandy. If you haven't heard her album yet it is available for purchase on iTunes. Savannah is also a full time student and Pacific Lutheran University and is half way through her Junior year there! She will be playing at the Tempest in downtown Tacoma on January 27th at 7pm. If you haven't had a chance to check out Savannah this is a great spot to see her.
__________
So there you have it folks! I know it was a long read but we're going to try to do this more often to check back to the site every couple weeks for updates from yours truly and the other artists! I hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week as we gear up for the Holiday Season! Stay warm and keep your ears open to the music!
-Nick
The following artists are headed into the studio over the next few weeks to wrap up some recording projects:
Rob Rigoni - Rob is ambitious and going into the Art Institute of Seattle (with engineer Kyle) to lay down an acoustic guitar
album.
Nick Sandy - Nick is going in to the Art Institute as well (again with engineer Kyle) to lay down an EP of his solo acoustic/vocal
music.
Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home - RH and the DDH is going to record a single from the up and coming BREATHE' album
slated for pre-production with producer Danielle Egnew in the fall. But, THIS single
(Either "Love" or "I'll Always Love You") will be engineered, of course, by engineer
Kyle.
Other than that, Raymond and Nick's interview on KGHP a few weeks back will be re-aired on Sunday August 16th at 9pm. . . . streamed at KGHP.ORG...or on air on 89.9FM or 93.7FM. Rikk Beatty and his band is working feverishly on their follow up album to Guitar Farm....Danielle Egnew is working on various different music projects and finishing up on the edits for her documentary, The Montgomery House/The Perfect Haunting.....Savannah is now selling her new CD, "Reaching Serenity,"....and, last but certainly NOT least, Maurice the Fish is rocking with the two newest members (Nick Sandy on Bass and Doug MacGrew on the skins)....album is delayed until late fall due to band changes and such.
Rob Rigoni - Rob is ambitious and going into the Art Institute of Seattle (with engineer Kyle) to lay down an acoustic guitar
album.
Nick Sandy - Nick is going in to the Art Institute as well (again with engineer Kyle) to lay down an EP of his solo acoustic/vocal
music.
Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home - RH and the DDH is going to record a single from the up and coming BREATHE' album
slated for pre-production with producer Danielle Egnew in the fall. But, THIS single
(Either "Love" or "I'll Always Love You") will be engineered, of course, by engineer
Kyle.
Other than that, Raymond and Nick's interview on KGHP a few weeks back will be re-aired on Sunday August 16th at 9pm. . . . streamed at KGHP.ORG...or on air on 89.9FM or 93.7FM. Rikk Beatty and his band is working feverishly on their follow up album to Guitar Farm....Danielle Egnew is working on various different music projects and finishing up on the edits for her documentary, The Montgomery House/The Perfect Haunting.....Savannah is now selling her new CD, "Reaching Serenity,"....and, last but certainly NOT least, Maurice the Fish is rocking with the two newest members (Nick Sandy on Bass and Doug MacGrew on the skins)....album is delayed until late fall due to band changes and such.
“Both entertaining and soulful, Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home engages the audience with thoughtful themes and interesting lyrics. Their music draws you in, both in melody and in meaning. It's a show you won't want to miss! With a very personal and unique performance style, Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home engages the listener and keeps you invested in the stories told and the emotions they evoke. In addition to great performances, Raymond Hayden is a joy to work with in the promotion and booking process. He makes it easy to bring the band on board and create a night to remember.”
Heather James
Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church (Tacoma, WA)
Heather James
Pastor, Westminster Presbyterian Church (Tacoma, WA)
"I had the pleasure of hiring Raymond Hayden and the Dark Drive Home to play at a Wine & Cheese party at FS Family Nudist Park. What a treat that was for all! I’ve enjoyed the music of Raymond Hayden in various bands, for a number of years, but I honestly feel this is his best work yet. The talented musicians that make up the Dark Drive Home…Nick Sandy, Susan Renville, and Dave Sawyer, complement each other and Mr. Hayden with masterful instrumentation and vocals that are an explosion of Harmony. They kept folks of all ages entertained for hours with a perfect mixture of originals and covers. The highlight of the evening for me was watching my long time friend, Susan Renville sing her soft, sweet, interpretation of Silent Lucidity…it brought tears to my eyes. I’m proud to call these people friends, and recommend them to anyone wanting the perfect music for a perfect evening. The members of FS have insisted that they return to open this year’s Nudestock Festival, on Saturday, August 29."
Dawnzella Gearhart
PR, FS Family Nudist Park
http://www.fraternitysnoqualmie.com
http://myspace.com/fsfamilynudistpark
Dawnzella Gearhart
PR, FS Family Nudist Park
http://www.fraternitysnoqualmie.com
http://myspace.com/fsfamilynudistpark
